All Weather Riding
by on October 29, 2008
India usually has a very favourable bicycle climate. Most large cities do not have to deal with mounds of snow every winter, or barrages of water during the rains. Maybe Mumbai is an exception to the second one. But otherwise, I think we have a pretty decent bicycling climate.
Spring and Summer
Spring and summer are the best seasons to ride in. The weather is pleasant, trees are donning a rich green colour and life seems particularly happy. Wear regular office clothes and you will be fine.
Sometimes though, the summer sun begins to get a bit too strong. Although cotton shirts are OK, synthetic fabrics are much better at wicking away the perspiration and letting it evaporate quickly. Not to be confused with spandex though! Get a cap, and remember to don a pair of sunglasses as always.
Monsoons
Most people shy away from riding during the rain because they are afraid of getting wet in the rain. But they learn quickly after their first post-shower ride that it is not the water falling down which is a problem as much as the muck which splashes up later.
Even then, it is possible to cycle even in particularly heavy rain if you are well protected. Ditch the office-wear for a pair of shorts and t-shirt, get a nice waterproof jacket and a cap to protect your head. Hoods get in the way when you are trying to look behind at turns which can be dangerous. It may seem logical to purchase rain shoes or slippers for this weather but the fact is that their rubber soles slip off the pedals and make for an uncomfortable ride. Crocs are actually quite good to wear while cycling, if you like them. Various companies also sell floater sandals which grip well and dry quickly.
Winter
Now winters evoke different imagery in the minds of different people. My winter ride clothing is no different from the summer ones because Pune has a relatively milder winter. I can hop onto the bike, ride a few minutes and feel sufficiently warmed by the exercise to not need any warm clothing. But sometimes a jacket and a balaclava hat are needed.