Sandy's Winter Riding Tips

Well, it's January 15th and I rode my mountain bike outside for TWO hours. Can you believe it? So, here are my tips to make riding in January fun...besides the fact that riding in January is fun in it's own right!
1. Gear - First, choose your shoes. If you are like me, riding in cycling shoes is a must. Some people opt for runners or hiking boots in the winter. If you choose cycling shoes, you NEED booties. Cycling shoes are made for ventilation, which is great at +30, but horrible at -5. Booties will block the wind and help keep your toes warm. Remember that cycling shoes and icy trails = danger. Cleats are not meant to walk up or down icy hills. Also, to keep your hands warm, consider lobster gloves. They are half glove, half mitten - designed to allow you to brake and hold on to the handle bars at the same time...two vital functions! Clothes that block wind are essential as well as a toque that fits under your helmet.
2. HOT BALM. This is best applied right before leaving home..it's called hot balm for a reason. Also, put it on after putting your shorts on; hot balm and chamois = very bad.
3. Don't forget your bell. Oblivious trail users are even more oblivious in January. In the park today came across a group of 4 people and 4 dogs walking in a line across the entire trail. I rang at 50 feet, 25 feet, and 3 feet, finally resorting to a friendly "bike passing on your left." The response - vague looking over their shoulders saying "oh, I thought I heard a bell but couldn't figure out what is was!" Bells are good to have, but sometimes I wonder.
4. If the steep downhill looks icy it probably is. Enter with caution.
5. If there are hikers using the above mentioned trail, wait until they are safely out of the way before attempting the "it looks icy, but I'll try it anyway" maneuver. Note: If the hikers move into the trees, this may not be a SAFE place for them, because that is likely where you will end up.
6. When your toes get cold, get off your bike and jog on the spot. Get the blood flowing again and you will be comfortable in no time.
7. For next time: My bottle froze so I think I will try putting the bottle in a jersey pocket so my body heat can keep it from freezing. Also, will try to apply hot balm to the toes.