Questioning My Decision to Ride in the Cold
The plan was to meet a friend for breakfast as the Sunset West Diner. Watching the weather forecast and the predicted low temperatures I wondered whether I could ride my Vespa GTS Scooter at 6-degrees Fahrenheit. I’m older and less tolerant of the cold. And my mind doesn’t see the same exciting challenge in facing adverse weather as it once did. Still, I have my moments.
Time and Sunshine
By the time I departed the diner the temperature had warmed to 16F. At that temperature I could ride all day on the well cold-armored Vespa. I had a few errands to run including a stop at the pharmacy for old-age supplies. I enjoy the incongruity of old age and riding in frigid temperatures. I never feel old when riding in general. And definitely not when riding my Vespa GTS Scooter at 6-degrees Fahrenheit.
I’ll chalk it up in the win column.
Homeward Bound
The trip home was the most difficult part of the ride. Lots of ice on the backroads requiring a continual monitoring and moderation of speed and lane placement. Sometimes riding in the oncoming lane. Just part of winter riding here in Central Pennsylvania.
It was a good ride. Satisfied my curiosity about my limitations and the effectiveness of the new Termoscud apron. And it always provided a needed dose of riding energy in the dead of winter. And of course, the reminder that I can still ride my Vespa GTS Scooter at 6-degrees Fahrenheit.
I made a video about the ride if you are interested…
Great to be out and about eh! I managed a Maiden 2025 CT125 scoot earlier this week but in a balmy low 40’s. The GTS would afford plenty more weather protection I would think? Enjoy!
It only takes a few rides during the winter to keep the bikes in good shape without winterizing and to keep my mind calm. With five machines in the garage that’s 15 rides. I’ve managed that this winter.
The Vespa GTS is definitely the winner for really cold days. The muffs, apron, and heated grips keep me nice and warm.
Kudos to your bravery! I think I would be more concerned for the road conditions than the temps, especially those hidden shady spots where the ice/snow doesn’t melt until late Spring.
There are definitely lots of hidden shady spots with ice. I need to be really slow and methodical. It was 70F here last week. But 29F is predicted later in the week. So spring is not quite here yet.
I’ve pretty much lost all desire to go riding in cold weather Steve. A nice snow fall might tempt me but just cold weather? Nope.
My winter riding desire has definitely faded. But I am lazy enough that riding seems easier than winterizing!
Thanks for the video, it doesn’t get all that cold where I live in Australia about 14f is what I’ve experienced riding around my local area although I don’t get out much in that kind of weather these days due to a compromised lung condition but still some days I take a chance especially if it has been a few days since my last ride hehe.
Sorry to hear about your struggle with cold air. I suppose each of us is eventually faced with some sort of health related impediments to riding. My back and arthritis will definitely be an issue at some point.
I hope you find the right conditions to get out for a ride. It does wonders for the spirit!
Thanks, most definitely will find time for a ride very soon like tomorrow, Oh that’s right tomorrow is not a given so do it now. 🙂