That’s the best advice I can give you for this time of year.
The weather changes so much during the spring that sometimes you have no idea what to expect from sunrise to sunset. Just this week temperatures in Madison went from 75 degrees and sunny to below freezing and snow within one week. With temperature swings like this, it can be hard to plan out your clothing needs for the day.
Layers are your friend. It is super important to have a good base layer that can wick away moisture as you ride. Depending on the length of your ride, you might experience a 15 degree rise in temperature while you’re on the bike. If this is the case, a good base layer gives you the ability to shed off a jacket and still remain warm and dry.
I typically ride with 3 layers this time of year: a base layer, a long sleeve warmer jersey, and a jacket. There are many great spring weather jackets that have zip off arms. These are great because often you only want a vest once you’re warmed up. One of my favorites is the RXL Convertible Jacket from Bontrager. Buy yourself one of these and you’ll thank me for it!
As Juno covers the East Coast in snow, and others of us have been riding downstairs on the trainer for months, we are all dreaming of those warm 72 degree days. But if you’re brave enough to face the elements, we’re here to provide you with a few tips on riding in the snow and cold.
Don’t bring your bike inside. It’s best if the bike stays the same temp throughout the day. Having the slush/water freeze then melt daily will wreak more havoc on it than just keeping it below freezing all the time.
Keep that chain as clean and lubed as you can. A daily wiping down of the chain is a good practice to get into. All of the road salt will quickly erode any lubrication properties of most chain lubes. Use a good wet lube weekly to keep your chain in tip top shape and don’t forget to wipe the excess off after you apply it. Remember you are trying to lube the parts inside the chain, not the parts you see!
Along with a new year comes an all-new team kit! Featuring the signature pinstripes as well as trims to match the team bikes, Trek Factory Racing gear is sure to turn heads in the peloton and your club ride alike.
Use the hashtag “#ShowYourStripes” to join the team and participate throughout the 2015 racing calendar by posting photos of in the team kit on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Show your stripes and get ready for another exciting season of epic racing.
CycleOps VirtualTraining is a software program that allows you to ride virtual routes from all over the world. These routes are created by cycling enthusiasts, just like you, who hit the road with a GoPro, a moped, bike, car or even drone, and record every turn of a famous or favorite route.
We’re talking real video of actual roads. There’s nothing computer generated about it.
The CycleOps VirtualTraining community is over 40,000 strong, many of whom are committed to filming and uploading routes. Additionally, we’ve got a team that certifies them based on GPS accuracy. That way you know the elevation grades on the screen are the same you’d be experiencing if you were hitting Alpe d’Huez in person. This same certification team traveled Europe this summer to film over 20 fan-favorite routes from the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia.
The platform has come a long way since we first launched. Once only available on PC desktop, it can now also run a variety of devices included iPads, iPhones and Android tablets and mobile devices. Get yours today at CycleOps.
Whether you’re flying home from the holidays or on your way to Europe for a cycling vacation, a Grand Trunk Travel Pillow is a must-have companion. You’ll get sound rest before your next adventure begins.
Avid outdoorsmen Jon Neff and Kevin Kaiser decided it was time travelers stopped crumpling up their jackets into makeshift headrests. They designed these pillows for their company Grand Trunk, which creates products to enhance active lifestyles.
The Adjustable Pillow easily changes shape to suit your surroundings and preferences. Tighten or release the drawstring to make it round and puffy or flat and soft. The Hooded Pillow is a memory foam neck ring covered in comfy fleece, with an attached drawstring hood to block out light. Both come with a storage sack that makes them easy to tote around.
To get your travel pillow, or find other undiscovered products invented by people with stories, head to The Grommet today!
Indoors or out, and especially on an airplane, this insulated jacket is the perfect travel piece to keep you comfortable without weighing down your suitcase.
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Travel and Leisure Magazine Subscription | $12
The best guide for insider information on top hotels, restaurants, and things to do around the world, Travel and Leisure provides inspiration and insights on every page.
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CB2 Wood Bike Storage | $50
Turn your gear into art, and save space in your home, with this handcrafted wood rack that mounts easily to any wall and holds you bike by the top tube.
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This is Ground Cordito | $45
With room for up to three cables and two plugs, This is Ground’s Cordito neatly holds your electronic cords and keeps them from getting tangled in your bag.
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Osprey Syncro Hydration Pack | $110
This lightweight and ventilated pack is available in three sizes and offers plenty of carrying capacity for multiple hours on a mountain bike or hiking trail.
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Outdoor Tech Buckshot Wireless Speaker | $50
This small, portable speaker has all the features you want. It’s shock-resistant, water-resistant, and provides crystal clear audio for sixteen hours.
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Black Diamond Storm Headlamp | $50
Equipped with a fully waterproof construction, this incredibly bright headlamp is perfect for helping you work in all conditions and levels of daylight.
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L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream Trio | $28
Born of Provence, L’Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream will keep your hands from drying out on long flights. A perfect winter stocking stuffer for men and women.
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Mophie Space Pack | $150
An iPhone battery case with built in storage, bring the Mophie Space Pack on your next trip to ensure that your phone never dies right when you need it most.
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Cycle Ops PowerSync Trainer | $900
Take your indoor training to a whole new level. With programmable resistance and virtual training software, you’ll never get bored on a long winter rider again.
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Leap Wireless Earphones by Yurbuds | $100
These sweat-proof, comfortable earphones have exceptional sound and Bluetooth connectivity. Lasting up to 6 hours, never let wires get in your way on a ride.
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Artifact Uprising Hardcover Photo Book | $70
Document your adventures or tell your story with a, premium quality photo book. Beautifully share your best photos with family and friends this holiday season.
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TRX Suspension Trainer | $200
TRX suspension training uses your bodyweight for a fast, effective, total-body workout. Set it up anywhere so you never lose fitness while you’re on the road.
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Grid Mini Foam Roller | $25
Finally an easy to pack, travel friendly foam roller. This 4-inch roller helps mobilize tissue and aid in recovery by providing targeted compression.
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Stumptown Coffee Rambler | $185
Whether you wake up near rocky mountain, desert dust, hotel minibar, or skyscraper, coordinates matter not. The Rambler makes a damn good cup wherever you find yourself.
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Bontrager Mallorca Carry On | $220
Big enough for riding essentials but small enough to fit in the overhead, this roller bag features wet and dry compartments to separate clean and dirty clothes.
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Nuun Energy Sampler Pack | $20
The perfect supplement for any ride, Nuun electrolyte tablets provide the essentials for performance through balanced hydration and sustained energy.
If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.
Don’t see exactly what you are looking for or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735
What is the Difference?
Ultimate Luxury:
Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.
Luxury:
Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.
Explorer:
These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.
Combined:
On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of Explorer and Luxury hotels. Rest assured, no matter which hotel level you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.
Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).
Level 2:
Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).
Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).
Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).
Level 3:
Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).
Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).
Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).
Level 4:
Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).
Gravel: 4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).
What are your trip styles?
Classic - Reserve:
Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.
Classic - Signature:
Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.
Classic - Discover:
Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.
Ride Camp:
Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.
Pro Race:
See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.
Cross Country:
Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.
Self-Guided
Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.
Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself
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