Any tips for commuting in the rain

[CopperBrompton]

Use a hub-geared bike if you have one

Ideally a Brompton, then you can just hop on the tube when it pisses down.

 

[ufkacbln]

Hot shower, Hot chocolate and bed!

You forgot the rub down from a fit member of the opposite sex!





.... Although when you get to my age your original recipe is probably more likely!

 

[Gooner Mad Dog]

I can't believe you have had any rain , we are in the middle of a drought for gods sake....

 

[Randochap]

Mudguards, mudguards, mudguards!!!

+1

It used to be that, apart from racing bikes, mudguards were part of any sensibly designed bike. Problem is, so many road bikes are being built without enough clearance and attachment points for mudguards. This fact often is the basis for my most popular rant--that racing too often influences the design of bicycles in general.

Happily, there is a trend towards utilitarian cycling (which is what most of us do most often) and bikes appropriate for the job.

As I've said here before, I was surprised the last time I was in the UK (2007) to see so few classic British bikes, the kind I grew up around. Most people seemed to be riding department store mountain bikes. That has been the case in Canada, as well, so I'm glad to see the aforementioned trend. As more people demand utility over pretence, we'll see better design.

As for riding in the rain, I'd also add a good mudflap, at least on the front. You'll be amazed how much muck a commodious flap keeps off your feet (which will also benefit from booties). Tyres should also be considered. No knobbies needed; the more rubber on the road the better. Watch out for grease (the first rain after a dry spell is dangerous), manhole covers and road markings. Keep the rubber side down.

Happy Trails!

 

[hennbell]

Use blinky lights if possible, clear in front red in back.

 

[bicyclos]

And at the end of the day, it's only rain and its not every day you get wet! Going to work I take spare dry clothes, coming home does not matter getting wet through. Everything in the washer and straight in the shower and change.....

 

[Jdratcliffe]

anyone have any tips how to get rid of the "damp" smell from cycle shoes? i dried mine last night on a rad with newspaper inside as i only have one pair but now and previously they get a damp smell

 

[glasgowcyclist]

anyone have any tips how to get rid of the "damp" smell from cycle shoes? i dried mine last night on a rad with newspaper inside as i only have one pair but now and previously they get a damp smell

Wash 'em?
(Radical, I know...)


GC