CyclePig

Poll: Some Like It Hot

photo by axel burhman

When talking about perfect cycling conditions I think most cyclists would love to be going downhill with the wind at their back.

But what about the perfect cycling temperature?

Some like it hot, some like it not so hot, some like it cool and others like it downright chilly. The temperature you prefer will be significantly impacted by what you are used to and the type of cycling you are doing. If you live in North Africa I am sure it seems very sensible to go for a bike ride in 45 degree heat (113 F). If you lived in Iceland 5 degrees (41 F) may feel positively balmy.

If you are just out for a one hour Sunday cruise around the local park, then I am sure you will love having a warm sun beating down on your back. But if you are out all day toiling up mountains this type of temperature will sap your strength.

What Is Your Ideal Cycling Temperature?

• Chilly - less than 8c (46F)
• Crisp - less than 15c (59F)
• Mild - less than 22c (72F)
• Toasty - less than 30c (86F)
• Baking - over 30c (86F)

View Results

 Loading ...

8 Responses to “Poll: Some Like It Hot”

1. will Says:
   July 1st, 2008 at 7:46 am

   I did a long event in the heat last weekend where I drank at least 10 water bottles of hot sport drink.

   The closest I have ever come to puking on a bike. The heat is rough for me.

2. Lazy Bike Commuter Says:
   July 1st, 2008 at 12:15 pm

   I’m glad you have conversions, those communist numbers confused me.

3. Red Says:
   July 1st, 2008 at 1:16 pm

   I have ridden in everything from -30F to 115F. I prefer the seventies. But as you say it depends on what you are used to. In the winter 50F feels pretty good. In the middle of the summer in this area anything below ninety is great.

4. Mike Weiland Says:
   July 1st, 2008 at 2:50 pm

   I grew up at altitude, so we had a summer high in the 80F’s and winter riding was anywhere from -15 to 15 F. The 100+ degree weather is something new for me and I’m getting use to it. I’ll ride in any conditions, I love riding in the wind, rain, snow or shine. I’m not picky.

5. Jared Says:
   July 1st, 2008 at 5:48 pm

   Mid 60s is just about perfect for me…unfortunately we don’t get much of that here unless it’s “winter.” So for now I’m stuck with baking. I got a break yesterday though…it was under 100 when I went out for a ride! Something that hasn’t happened in the last week or so.

6. thePig Says:
   July 2nd, 2008 at 9:09 am

   @Will: I assume this is La Grand Bo Cyclosportive you talk about here - http://www.cycling-challenge.com/la-grand-bo-cyclosportive-2008/
   I am not a fan of the heat either but can’t say I have ever managed to down 10 bottles of fluid.

   @Lazy: Glad to help….ummmm interesting viewpoint

   @Red: I guess the time of year can make quite a difference to what you prefer. But suspect this is a combination of your ideal temperature with a little dose of realism based on the current weather

   @Mike: I wish I could have your attitude as I am a bit of a fair weather cyclist.

   @Jared: I have never ridden my bike in 100F heat…at least not since I was a kid. Think this might be too hot for me….now where did I leave my pedalo

7. Arlyn Says:
   July 3rd, 2008 at 1:34 am

   I like it a little warm. The cold is hard for me. I’d rather sweat at 90F than be chilly at 58F.

8. thePig Says:
   July 4th, 2008 at 7:11 am

   @Arlyn: Growing up in Australia I was quite similar, but after living in England for 6 years, 58F feels rather warm. Maybe I will switch back.

Leave a Reply