What do you wear?

[Tony Youens]

I've been trying to make more use of my Brompton Nano but I find I'm put off by even the merest hint of rain (what a wimp!). This is in no small part because I work in an office and I don't want to sit in soggy clothes all day. Part of the attraction of an electric bike is that I can wear my normal clothing and not arrive in a sweaty heap.

The unpredictable UK weather means I'm not sure if I'll get too hot, too cold or too wet. So I'm wondering what others do?

By the way I don't have anywhere to leave clothes at work.

Cheers,

Tony

 

[billadie]

When wet, a Timberlake waterproof anorak which I've had for years and a pair of £10 overtrousers. Keep spare socks and shoes at work. Keeps me dry.

 

[neptune]

In an absolute heavy downpour, you will get a bit wet. I sometimes use a cheap all in one waterproof suit designed for motorcyclists. These can be had for as little as £20. If your commute is relatively short, and not too exposed to winds, consider a traditional cycle cape. About £10 from Wilco. Not recommended in high winds, they can blow up over your head.

 

[SRS]

I've been trying to make more use of my Brompton Nano but I find I'm put off by even the merest hint of rain (what a wimp!). This is in no small part because I work in an office and I don't want to sit in soggy clothes all day. Part of the attraction of an electric bike is that I can wear my normal clothing and not arrive in a sweaty heap.

The unpredictable UK weather means I'm not sure if I'll get too hot, too cold or too wet. So I'm wondering what others do?

By the way I don't have anywhere to leave clothes at work.

Cheers,

Tony

I solved the problem, just bought a washing machine and tumbler drier. Plumbed in, add a few wall hooks and all works well.

Goes without saying, you generally need to work for your self or have a cycle orientated boss for this option to work.

 

[Sacko]

I leave a weeks worth of shirts and suits at work. Every Monday I drive in, replacing my old clothes with clean new ones.

I would find it a bit restrictive riding in with a suit and shirt on anyway.

 

[timidtom]

Bin bags?
;-)
Tom

 

[mr_chompers]

I won the genetic lottery in that I do not sweat from bicycling. It takes an extreme amount of exercise for me to perspire, and I never ever get to the point of dripping, never had wet armpits either.

I like layers. I have a windbraker type cycle jacket I use most days, and I have a waterproof very lightweight shell I can add if it is raining more than a light misting. Then I have lightweight waterproof pants, and booties that velcro over my shoes. This way if all I want to do is cover my shoes, I can leave my legs open to the air, or I can just have a jacket if I am not worried about legs and shoes. All of it folds up nicely into a little sling bag I wear on my back on days where the weather forecast is questionable, but the morning ride seems dry.

 

[Tony Youens]

Thanks everyone for the ideas. I don't have the option of leaving much at work, although at a pinch I might be able to store a pair of shoes in a locker.

I'd buy a ticket for the genetic lottery but I think I'm too late.

Since writing I did manage to get quite a good jacket at Millets today for a measley £20. However fate seems to decree that if I wear a suitable jacket the sun will shine at it's very brightest. Whereas not to take a jacket... well you can guess.

In fact I'm beginning to think I'm personally responsible for the wet summers we're having.

Thanks again.

Tony