It’s been a long ten days since my last ride, days of unseasonably bitter cold, wind, and rain. Tomorrow it’s supposed to turn cold and rainy again, with Saturday more of the same, perhaps even snow.

This afternoon was a short respite, a brief window of opportunity where the sun shone between the clouds, the wind didn’t blow too hard, and the temperature moderated. This was my chance, and I took it.

It was a cold ride, even in long pants and wind jacket. I found myself wishing for ear cover, and wishing I’d chosen full-fingered gloves rather than the fingerless cycling gloves.

It was also a short ride, only eight miles, but my speed was reasonably fast, I was spinning freely, and it felt good, even with the cold.

This was my first ride with the new Strada Cadence cyclocomputer, and it worked flawlessly. The calibration seems to be right on, and the display is very easy to read.

Next week I’m looking forward to a warm-up, with temperatures reaching into the low-to-mid sixties by Monday. That will feel good, assuming the wind doesn’t kick into high gear as well. Hopefully a chance to rebuild a bit of fitness and get a few more miles under the wheels before the upcoming club ride the following weekend.