Spring Is Finally Here!

It is time to say goodbye to studded tires. Photo by Julian Kegel

Regular readers know that I like winter. I’ve invested in two fat bikes, in studded tires for both and for my commuter bike. I’ve got old school wool, modern technical fabrics and Bar Mitts on three bikes. I typically travel as far north as I can to ride the frozen sea caves along the shore of Lake Superior. I embrace my inner Viking.

Fly fishing on the Menomonee River just outside our office, makes the ride home on the Hank Aaron State Trail something special.

But as much as I love winter, I have to admit that first ride in shorts and a jersey feels really good. It reminds me of the time I had my first sip of coffee after I stupidly swore off caffeine for a couple months. I remember that soothing boost to my synaptic connections and thinking I must have been crazy to give up coffee.

Not quite swimming season for me, but I had to stop on my ride home to admire this guy’s spirit!

While people who bike through Wisconsin’s winters might not be crazy, it certainly makes Wisconsin bicycling in the spring seem all the more precious. Lately, I’ve been adding extra miles to my ride home from work and going for long road rides on the weekends. Knock on wood, I think spring is here to stay.

Why we ride in Wisconsin. Photo by Julian Kegel.

This article was originally published by the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin.