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…
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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. 🙂
Tomorrow doesn’t exist. Only this present moment!
Personally ,have ALWAYS hoped for more female riders. Still do!!
Nice Steve sorry got cold just watching the trip.It looks like u r flying down the road too, Speed??? Saw 25 mph posted . We had 11° F. Couple weeks ago I didn’t even go outside much less ride ..You r the King of cold I think, Good to hear from you Friend.
That serious. My motorcycle won’t even start when its that cold.
Harleys never start in the cold. That’s what makes them a genuine Harley.
Steve that is accomplished, it’s good to be prepared for such an activity, mentally and physically. I enjoyed my 1st ride of the season on March 10th as the weather was favorable. Thank you for sharing.
Paul J
The favorable weather has arrived. Still some cold days ahead but more warmer days than cold.
Ride safe as the season begins.
I love that you can use your Vespa to change the way you feel about getting older! That’s the best way to avoid getting older mentally.
Nice, helpful writing. Thank you.
The Vespa is magic. It has done a lot for me. So have all my machines in the garage.
And thanks for the kind words about the writing. I appreciate them.
Steve, você é uma inspiração! De tal forma que eu acompanho as suas aventuras há algum tempo e agora decidi exatamente criar um blog para retratar os momentos que irei viver com a minha scooter. Ela está encomendada e ainda não chegou, mas se quiser, poderá dar uma olhada no meu blog em: https://aminhahonda.blogspot.com
Um abraço! E continue com essas fantásticas jornadas com a sua scooter. Eu estarei do outro lado do atlântico seguindo-o!
Já agora, você tem paisagens maravilhosas!
Obrigado por suas palavras gentis. Fico feliz em poder ajudar a inspirar um pouco. E parabéns por começar seu próprio blog. Espero que você encontre tanta satisfação e alegria quanto eu tenho com o meu.