WINTER RIDING - by Nancy DeVore

As the days get shorter and colder, you don't have to give up your cycling activities for the winter. When the wind-chills starts dropping and roads turn slick, try hitting the local wooded trails with your mountain bike. The trees will shelter you from much of the wind and riding speeds are much slower, leaving you to work up a warm glow surprisingly quick while working to navigate trails. Freezing temps bring the added benefit of solid mud-free trails so this can often be the best time to enjoy trails in the deep winter. High quality riding lights to brighten your path on short days can be had now for $100-$150 which is a lot cheaper than a winter gym membership.

Don't let a little snow put a damper on things either;just let a little air out of your tires and don waterproof shoes or sock liners. Several inches of snow can make for a thrilling riding challenge, but don't plan on covering much trail - your average speed drops significantly when spinning on snow. Cold toes and fingers a problem? The latest technology in chemical heat packs have virtually eliminated that excuse from the rider's repertoire. Ultra-thin warmers that won't leave your socks in a bunch now available at most outdoor stores. For less than the price of a cup of Joe, you can have warm toes and fingers that last 5-6 hours.

And if concerns about your skills or the risks of mountain biking are holding you back, check out the latest in women's mountain biking instruction in the Wildflower Mountain Biking for Women video. Ride on!