With the popularity of group rides growing by leaps and bounds, I’ve always wondered what most cyclists are looking to get out of group rides? Let me know why you enjoy group rides so much.

Continuing the series of winter riding accessories and apparel, the last post covered the Winter Hat from Rapha. This post goes to the opposite end of my frame and covers the toes. It’s amazing how quickly the toes and feet become chilled on cool/cold morning rides.

One of the best products I’ve used to combat cold toes are the Barrier MTB Shoe Covers from Pearl iZumi. These shoe covers not only keep my toes cozy and warm, but are rugged and durable. They’ve survived several run-ins with brush, roots, fallen tree limbs, and not to mention dry from the cold rain and mud.

If you’re in need of toe covers for either warmth or protection, give the Barrier MTB Shoe Covers a try. You and your toes will be glad after 40 miles of cold and elements.

It’s a proven fact that a majority of body heat is lost via the head. To prevent heat loss and aid in comfort while cycling, I’ve been wearing the Rapha Winter Hat for a few months now.

I like the versatility of the hat, as I wear it under my helmet and as a stand alone hat on cold days and nights. Looks great on the bike and when worn casually, whether it’s a drive to the market or shoveling the driveway.

If you’re in the market for a winter hat, you can’t go wrong with the Rapha Winter Hat.

Here it is 2010 and it’s been a really long time since I’ve been writing here. There’s been good reason for that.

Back in December 2008, I started having some pretty severe pain in my right hip. It was uncomfortable to say the least. This lead me to give up cycling for a while as the pain progressed throughout the winter and into the spring of 2009.

In August of 2009 (why I waited so long, I have no idea) I finally had enough and sought the advice of an orthopedic surgeon. I was diagnosed with arthritis of my right hip and to the extent that I’d need a hip replacement within the next two years.

As the conversation continued with my doctor around exercise do’s and don’ts, he explained to me that cycling might be one of the few sports that I’d be able to continue with moderation. Good news came out of this after all.

Since then, I’ve been back on the bike and logging mile after mile. I’m still learning how to deal with some of the pain and defining moderation as I go, but all in all, I won’t complain. While the pain is still there and some days are better than others, the pain sure does seem distant on an early Sunday morning 50 miler.

Look for more posts in 2010, as I’ve got some lofty goals set for riding this year. I’ve been trying lots of cold weather gear as of late and I’m eager to share some of the best products with you.

Enjoy and pedal safe in 2010.