Day 6 -Toasty Warm

Staying Warm

What a difference heated clothing makes. I rode for a few hours around the Woodland, La Center, Ridgefield area today. It was my first opportunity to really test my Gerbing's heated jacket liner and gloves. The ambient temperature hovered around 42F as I rode on mostly wet roads. I did not get the least bit cold. Before heated gear, I could ride for about 30 minutes and then would stop for hot coffee to warm my hands. So, here's my advice: get heated gear if you think you might want to be a year-a-round rider. (I'll still carry fleece in the trunk in case I have a system failure).

Places to See

The weather today was overcast with a few sun peeks. I-5 was mostly dry from the heavy holiday traffic. Secondary roads were mostly wet. I took a ride from Woodland up NE Hayes Rd. to the Cedar Grist Mill. As you can see from the photo, there was still snow on the ground, but the roads were clear.

I rode back to Woodland where I filled the gas tank with 4.2 gallons of premium. I'm still working on gauging how close to empty I feel comfortable. I wiped the rain off the windshield and headed south. (Yes, it did get just a little damp on the trip to the Grist Mill).

It was starting to get late in the day and I wanted to have time to get home before dark and wash the bike. I stopped at Lava Java in Ridgefield, WA. It's at exit 16 just off I-5 and serves THE BEST coffee in the area. If you've never been there, stop by some time and check it out. They have received numerous Barista awards at regional and national competitions.

End of Day

I was short on time and wanted to ride longer, but such is life.

Ambient Temp: 42F
Ending odometer: 000504
Trip Miles: 43
Fuel: $3.23 in Woodland, WA.

The weather forecast for sun breaks and temperatures in the 50's on Dec. 31 and Jan 1. Guess who is going riding!

Ride Safe.