In Michigan, spring time temps can be unpredictable; 60F one day and 30F the next. So it pays to be prepared.

Cold weather riding is not my most favorite but when it must be done, then cold weather gear is in order. A balaclava is essential to keep cold air out of the lungs and layered clothing is the other desirable part of one's outfit. My current regiment includes 3 layers on my torso and 2 layers on my extremities, plus neoprene insulated covers over one's biking shoes. Stopping for coffee or hot chocolate along the way isn't a bad idea either. Ride on!

Sit Bones...?

As a relative newbie to the world of Cycling, I had never consciously thought of my 'sit bones' before. But today, I went to my local bike shop (LBS) and had my sit bones measured.

As I mentioned in a previous entry, I bought my first road bike this past fall. Since then I've been enjoying it very much, but I have yet to feel comfortable on longer rides. I think I have my bike pretty well fitted to me at this point, but the seat (saddle) is still uncomfortable. I know this because I end up subconsciously squirming every couple of minutes, besides the occasional numbness that will sometimes occur. As I've been considering a different saddle, I've discovered how important it is to have a saddle that is the proper width. My bike came with a very nice high end saddle that many people speak highly of, so I didn't think it was a saddle problem-until recently. 

Now back to the 'sit bones'. What I learned today is that I am in-between a narrow (130) and medium (143) in the distance between my sit bones. (I was surprised a little as I'm 6' and over 180 lbs-I figured I'd be a large, but it's a genetic thing; not based on my weight or dimensions.) The saddle on my bike is a narrow. That's why I'm having so much discomfort on long rides. It's very nice to learn this and as I consider what saddle to buy in my size I have a good deal of hope that I will enjoy my longer rides much more in the near future. 

So now you too know that you have sit bones AND that they are important when it comes to a proper fit and more comfortable ride on those long days on the bike.