Roo & MK's Trail Corner
It's that time of year when the days are short and often, thankfully in this time of drought, wet. But rain should not discourage you from getting out onto the gravel for some winter riding on your mountain or gravel bike. As the saying goes: there's no such thing as bad weather; just bad gear.
Prior proper preparation (PPP) is a necessity to enjoy the rugged days of winter riding. The alternatives of sitting on an indoor trainer or rowing machine don't come anywhere close to the inspiration of a good frigid day outside in the saddle. All that's required is a proactive attitude and some common sense. Here are a few suggestions:
To begin, check the weather: Weather Underground has an excellent track record for relatively accurate hourly forecasts.
Next, pick a route with a good loop or out and back alternative. Wet conditions ask that you choose a route (several suggestions listed below) with minimal chance of damaging a fragile trail. The plethora of gravel roads in the JDSF and state parks can be a game changer to avail a fun day in the outdoors. If going alone, let a friend know where you plan to ride and when you plan to return. Otherwise, gather with other riders at one of the many well known trailheads. There are many secondary gravel roads in the JDSF that are ideal for minimizing damage to riding surfaces. Here are three suggestions with maps and distances to major intersections:
1-Scales -Rd 500 to Rd 408 to Rd 640 to Rd 600 for 15.5 miles.
2- A Longer Scales route via Rd 500 to Rd 512 to Rd 450 to Rd 456 to Rd 500 to Rd 408 to Rd 640 and finally Rd 600 for 19.3 miles.
3- A shorter and easier route could be Big River trail out to the bottom of High Chutes trail and back. 15.4 miles. Or, continue on to Camp 1 at the Woodlands for a total of 19.8 miles round trip.
Next, pack proper clothing to avoid your chances of being caught unprepared in changing conditions. A good choice of clothing should include a rain jacket that is rated at least "rain resistant" or, better yet, "rainproof". Rain pants can be a game-changer if caught in an unexpected deluge. A skull cap or headband that fits under your helmet and covers your ears is really nice! When it comes to frigid conditions, wool is the best option to keep you warm, especially if getting wet becomes a problem. Its insulating qualities are unmatched. We've both taken unplanned winter swims on rides and come out soggy, but amazingly not too cold. Hypothermia is dangerous and can be fatal if unaddressed. Warm gloves with liners are essential. Also, a decent pair of riding glasses are a must to keep mud as well as any unforeseen branches out of your eyes. Finally, make sure your bike is ready with a well-lubricated drive train and outfitted with decent fenders.
Essential repair items to pack along are: spare inner tube with tire irons, bike pump, a good toolset like an Alien, spare chain link and derailleur hanger, a map or GPS device, as well as a decent knowledge of mechanical proficiency.
Check tires for proper inflation and do a final assessment of the mechanical condition of your drive train.
Install on your cellphone a georeferenced map from Jackaroo maps to Avenza. And of course, a mushroom bag for dinner treats. Information for mushrooming permits is available through Cal/Fire.
Bring along enough food to keep your energy up. Choose from an assortment of gels, bars or sandwiches. PBJ is our favorite! Feed on a regular basis. Bring an adequate supply of water topped off with electrolyte tablets.
Winter is always the hardest time of year to be consistent in your daily exercise routine. We hope that following these suggestions will help you enjoy the day and the satisfaction of having pushed yourself. The endorphins (and perhaps a post-ride beer, margarita, or other favorite libation) are your reward.
Happy Trails!
Roo & MK