Quote Originally Posted by Geonz
When I was in Virginia, where it's seldom windy, the most common newbie mistake was to go out and feel SO STRONG... not knowing it was because of a tailwind... and ride exuberantly, with more energy than usual... and then turn around. ACK!
Your comment made me smile, Geonz. You should have been riding here in Virginina during Feb/March when I couldn't escape riding in the wind (sometimes, gusts above 30mph). More than once, I was literally blown across the trail, which was a great test of my balance Unfortunately, there will be few breezes around here in a month or so from now, when the heat & humidity sink in for the summer.

I found the best way of dealing with steady strong wind is to just give in to it and keep it in an easier gear. Riding in wind has made me faster and stronger, so there's a long-term benefit.