We have reached the end of 2025. After almost 1k miles since the beginning of November I’m slowly learning how to hate winter riding less. So many routes that were stunning in the summer are now muddy slogs, and even the paved trails are often covered by washouts and debris. The bike has evolved for the season as well; I’ve set up a 650b wheelset with some 2.0″ Continental racekings, the widest possible tire my frame will fit. I’ve been riding a lot more singletrack with the new wheelset, even despite the conditions.
A lot of this fall/winter’s riding has been with a local group. We meet every Wednesday night, irrespective of the weather and go on a 20-30 mile ramble on gravel or even some mountain bike paths. Some of the rides have been fantastic, and some have been wet and whiny slogs. Misery definitely loves company in this weather, and solo rides feel much harder than they should.
A friend and I went on a short overnighter at the beginning of January out to Salt Creek. A relatively short ride, about 44 miles each way, but just enough climbing to be fun. The night was wet even though the meteorologists promised us clear skies, and we awoke once to a massive branch falling not far from our campsite. We have set a goal of at least one overnight trip every month this year, and January and February are certain to be the most challenging with the weather and how much extra clothing has to be packed.
The middle of January has brought a brief bit of sunny but cold weather and it’s been irresistible to skip a bit of work to get out in it. I had a mild knee injury at the end of December that caused me to take a couple weeks off the bike to recover and I’ve been pushing myself pretty hard now that my knee feels better.
