Not Exactly Biking Weather

We have been getting one snowstorm after another this winter. Almost every one of them has been nice cold snow that is great for cross country skiing out back in the woods. This has been one of the best skiing winters that I can remember. I enjoy having a break from cycling, especially when the X-country skiing can take its place. The forecast is for another storm on Tuesday and Wednesday. And potentially yet another one next Saturday. I broke down last weekend and bought a new set of skis. Fischer Silent Spider, with back country bindings and boots. They are 189cm long, with metal edges. Designed to be used for light back country or at the touring centers. My previous Rosignols, 15 to 20 years old, are 215cm without metal edges. What a difference the shorter skis and edges make. I can actually make the turns without worrying about kissing the trees!

Chloe loves the winter in the woods

So do I

Brian wishes Mom and Dad were faster

I have been giving my Aero its yearly cleaning, so it is in no shape to ride anyway. The frame is on the workstand and most of the parts are off the bike. I am starting to get the itch to get back on the bike. Sometimes when I drive down a rode that I ride on often, I think about what it feels like to ride the bike down that stretch of the road. That's why I like having this break. When the weather does turn, I am really looking forward to getting back on the bike.

For now, I am going to enjoy the great skiing conditions.

New Years Day Ride

I believe this is the first time I've ridden on New Years Day. This year's temps were in the mid 50's about a week after a snow storm. I did the 21 mile Brentwood loop and stopped for a couple of pictures at the Creamery Brook Farm on Rt 111.

A good year

The year ended with a total of approx 3000 miles for the year. Not many miles for some, others think its a lot of riding. It's a good year for me when I hit 3000 miles. My last ride in 2010 was in early November. We have been turning our decaying deck into a sun room. Even though I am not doing most of the work, it has kept me busy. And when the cooler weather comes, I get busy cutting and splitting wood for the next winter, along with getting ready for the coming winter. Not to mention the very short days and I don't feel comfortable riding at night on the roads in this area. So, the bike tends to get put aside.