[ It’s all about getting on the bike and riding: I’ll try to keep this blog 90% about the rides, but there will be an occasional side notes about gear or bike-related projects and events. ]

It’s the rainy season in San Francisco, though there’s also something fun about riding in cooler weather. Here are a few tips:

  • After the first few storms of the season, the road is especially slick, as oil floats to the surface– be careful. And metal in the road (manhole covers, grates) and some kinds of paint can be even more slippery.
  • Grooves and patterns in your tires don’t really improve grip. But wider tires and/or lower tire pressure give you more  contact area with the road, which should improve traction– try dropping your pressure 10-20 psi.
  • Tap your brakes periodically while riding, to make sure they’re still working, to get a feeling how your bike’s behaving, and to clear some water from the rim.

For weatherproof gear, a poncho plus safety pins work in a pinch, and a $15 fender or rack will keep your tire from throwing a “rooster tail” of dirty water up your back.

Or you can spend real money on waterproof clothing. If you don’t enjoy doing product research or shopping around, and just want a recommendation of something to buy, here’s one way to spend <$200 at Sports Basement and be in good shape (not including a hood– I tend to assume my hair will get wet):

Ride safely!