My serious cycling started during one of the bicycle crazes in the late seventies. I was the consummate "roadie" with my triple crank and my handlebar pack with the map pocket. Some would say that I was only a "Fred". It took one winter to prove that the hard won conditioning of a 4000 mile season is a very temporary thing.

In those winters long ago, I would don multiple layers in a futile effort to stay warm on the bike. The memory is still very vivid of the time that I had to get off the bike and walk for several minutes until the feeling returned to my feet.

That all changed dramatically in 1987 when I was introduced to winter-time fat tire cycling. With the open "bear trap" pedals and upright position, I could wear insulated boots and warm mittens. More than that, I found that the shelter of the wooded areas and the slower pace substantially reduced the wind chill. I was using my upper body much more which also helped keep the fingers warm.

But there are still more benefits. Believe me, wooded trails in a light snowfall are gorgeous. With the leaves gone, wintertime riders can often spot interesting riding opportunities that are hidden in the summer. And, heavier clothing has protective value. Encounters with thorns or trees or the ground are more pleasant with a few layers of padding in place. And the poison ivy and nettles are gone until spring.

Don't wait for the Chilly Challenge to experience the joy of cool weather fat tire riding. Check out the MTB schedule and join the fun.