I really only enjoy the ride between 40F and 85F. Outside of those and I start to lose focus, mental agility and stamina. Sux to get old!
Hoping heated grips and better wind protection will help. I don't do snow so the East Coast mid-Atlantic winter looks like it may be a long/cold/lonely few months or so.
40F - 85F is 4.4C - 29.4C. Ok, fair range, though 4C is a bit cold.
I've just completed a lap round Oz (one-up). Lowest temperature was 0C (32F), highest was 36C (97F).
I had to carry all the hot and cold gear with me, which is harder than setting out from home with the right gear for the day.
So my jacket was an airflow DriRider, with the liner in when cold, out when hot. Winter and summer gloves. Long-johns, fluffy jacket and nylon overpants for cold.
The biggest problen at 0C was visibility, not comfort, though I felt the cold. Fog and my glasses fogging up!
At high temperatures I lowered the screen to improve airflow. But that meant more wind noise. I don't doubt that removing the screen would be great, but its not an option on a trip.
Once it got warmer (as we went north), I fitted a rider Cool Cover. Not only did it make things cooler, but I reckon it increased the comfort level, allowing longer in the seat. (Maximum day was 1015km.)
But when cooler, say below 25C, the cover made it cold on the bum. The heated seat was then no help. (I left it on though, for the increased comfort.)
I didn't find the range of 0C to 36C a big problem. Wore the same riding jeans the whole time, kevlar patched cheapies from Aldi. With and without long-johns and overpants.
So I'll say again, I think those who have a problem with heat in that range, have a bike problem.
I'm not a particularly tough critter, and rapidly approaching 75.
That said, the cold keeps me more focussed, heat tends to weary me and cause fatigue and inattention. I counter that by listening to rock music.
