spankin' new

[Wexy]

I've been lurking for a while, and decided it's time to post, only I couldn't think of what I should say that would make me seem veritably cool, so I thought I'd just say hi.... HI!

I just started riding in the past couple of months. I was riding my Dad's Cannondale touring bike... I just bought a Giant TCR2 Carbon... Unfortunately, the weather's been stormy in Vancouver, and I didn't budget for cold weather riding gear, so I'm back on the "interweb", thinking about biking.

[nomummytummy]

and I didn't budget for cold weather riding gear, so I'm back on the "interweb", thinking about biking.

Hi Wexy - I'd vote for saving up to get the right gear and still getting out. A hot shower fixes most things if you don't have enough layers on to start with.

I love winter riding - it's invigorating!

[Tri Girl]

Welcome, Wexy! Glad you finally decided to come out of lurking and say hi!

You know, a trainer works really well for those cold/wet/snowy/sleety days of winter. A modest investment of $100 could keep you riding all winter long (but I'd invest in cold weather wear and go outside- it's so much more invigorating!).

[Eden]

There are buget ways to make winter gear too. Messengers in town (who also prefer to look cool and as un-cyclist as possible - but pssst don't tell many of them wear spandex under their cool messenger duds) swear by buying wool dress pants at the local thrift shop and tailoring them up a bit - wear over your bike shorts for comfort. A jacket doesn't have to be cycling specific - it just might be a bit more comfortable if it is.

[Wexy]

Thanks for the friendly replies!

I did actually pick up a trainer yesterday, and the sun is going to be shining for most of this week in Vancouver, so I can't wait for that. I tend to get antsy on the trainer because I'd rather be outside. I braved the storm this morning with some extra leg warmers and a scarf :P

Can't wait for the sun to come back home...

[Wexy]

You know, a trainer works really well for those cold/wet/snowy/sleety days of winter.

I'm also trying to sort out how to get an enjoyable workout on a trainer. It seems as though the resistance is always a bit... weak... within 5 minutes, my cadence is as high as i would ever want it, and all the resistance seems to have left.

Do you have any tips for using a trainer? Can I stand up on a trainer as well?

...couldn't find much information on this by searching the forum.

[SouthernBelle]

That's interesting because I always find it harder to crank on the trainer!

You should be able to stand up. Heck you should be able to stand on the saddle and wave. What kind of trainer did you get?

[nomummytummy]

I'm also trying to sort out how to get an enjoyable workout on a trainer.

See that is an oxymoron - enjoyable & trainer togther!

When I broke my wrist, I used a trainer a few times, could never get it just right & so just did spin classes at the gym everyday. Was so much better - no fiddling w the trainer, no need for positive self talk about the trainer etc....

[Wexy]

It's an Inline Fluid trainer...

I picked it up barely used, but they're sold at MEC in Canada. It feels perfectly stable, I've just never been on one before, so I'm learning the ropes... and yeah, nomummytummy, you're right-- it's hardly a rewarding ride.

I've heard a lot about spin classes, but I've never been to one. I'll check it out once the roads get icy here, but for now, I think i'm going to stick to the rain, the dark, and the mushy slippery leaves.... Nothing on the trainer can feel like the 70km/h in Stanley Park, passing all the horses and cars and other riders!

[ibcycling]

Welcome from another newbie in the Northwest. I think we have calmer weather than you though. I'll keep my fingers crossed that you have some nice days to ride soon. I don't know that I could ride on a trainer at home. Seems kinda boring or maybe I'm just not disciplined enough. I did a spin class in Nebraska before we moved and it was HARD but FUN! Maybe you can find one and give it a try. Good luck!

Lora