March commutes are now complete and it was another full month of riding. I think it’s safe to assume that the threat of snow and ice has now passed. My winter commuting gear will soon be getting boxed up and put away until Oct/Nov time. I might even look at replacing some of it if I can spot a few bargains in the out of season sales. It’s always best to buy the previous season’s clothing at half price if possible!
Looking back we have been very fortunate here this year regarding the winter weather. Ice is one element that can be really dangerous and still scares me a bit. Compared to previous winters this one was quite tame. Although the temperature dipped quite low (-9.5°C seen when Dancing on Ice), it was mostly dry so the roads kept nice and safe. Hopefully we can now enjoy the temperature increasing week by week, with lighter mornings and getting home in the daylight.
The main challenge in March has been the seemingly constant wind. Although there is the associated boost from having it as a tailwind, it never feels like it balances out the headwind slogs. Normally what I try and do to help me keep going every day is to think of the fitness benefits and how much easier it is going to seem when the wind finally eases off! 🙂
I have also managed to get through the whole of March without any expense on the bike. This means the bike costs are now well ahead in the comparison stakes. There are a couple of wee issues (like creaking bearings) to sort out so next month will have a little expense needed. Head across to this page to find out more – How Much?
Heatflask
Making use of the awesome Heatflask plugin lets me see the routes I have taken over the month of March. The spacing of the dots indicates the regularity of me taking that route. You can see the most direct roads along the middle is where I normally travel going to work in the mornings. I then like to mix it up coming home to get away from the traffic and attempt to avoid the prevailing westerly.
Stats
Statistics for the month of March are very similar to February. Exactly the same number of days, 4 miles further and only 20 minutes less on the bike:
- Days Commuted: 20
- Distance Travelled: 697 miles
- Elevation: 26,417 ft
- Time: 42h 0mins
- Bikes used: 2
Extra Light
As I said above its good to be able to enjoy riding in more daylight again. Although I like the peace that the darkness seems to add, there is a definite boost to the mood with the longer days. Our clocks move forward this weekend as well so I will be coming home in daylight for sure. My lights will soon be able to be left at home but for now the morning commute will be a little dark still so I will keep using them for a few more weeks. However it won’t be long until they can be left in my light drawer collection!
- Magene Radar Tail Light - July 18, 2023
- Remembering - June 23, 2023
- School Run Fun - June 19, 2023
Jay Clock
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