I live in the central part of the state and grew up at the coast.

The weather is relatively mild, although this summer was unusually hot with a record breaking number of days above 90 degrees. I can cycle regularly about 8 months out of the year, keeping in mind that I only will go out if it is above 40 degrees. Dec. - March, there are quite a few days that I can ride, but it is not regular. There are days with snow and temps that do not get much above freezing during those months. Not a lot of days, but some. If you don't have the 40 degree cut off, like I do, then you can ride almost all year.

The coast is warmer and gets less snow and is, of course, flatter. I have heard that New Bern and Wilmington have nice retirement communities.

The weather is usually considered to be mild, except (in my opinion), July and August which are miserably hot and humid, and Feb. and March, which can be miserably cold (for here - I know it is much colder elsewhere!).

The mountains get quite a bit of snow, but are beautiful. I especially like the Asheville are.

Cycling varies by city. There is a big cycling community where I am with a lot of clubs and organized rides. I imagine most cities here would have the same. If you have any more specific questions, I can try to answer them.