Mad Mike
Well-known member
I've only had issues with heat while riding in +35C conditions other than some temporary discomfort in urban congestion. Fortunately, those are rare in Ontario.
If you're moving and have well-ventilated gear, you should be able to ride in heat up to 35C as long as you keep yourself hydrated. When I lived near the desert, days above 35 were troublesome, above 35 the air no longer cools the body -- unless you're naked -- even then it stops cooling at 37C. I used to keep a squirt bottle to occasionally mist down if I felt too hot - I also learned why Slurpees came in Bug Gulp sizes. I can only remember one instance of feeling I had to take action concerning heat while riding in Ontario.
Above 28C, just uncomfortable.
My advice from years of hot weather riding:
AGATT is still your best bet, but comfort is a critical factor in rider safety -- there is a tradeoff between comfort and protection.
If you're moving and have well-ventilated gear, you should be able to ride in heat up to 35C as long as you keep yourself hydrated. When I lived near the desert, days above 35 were troublesome, above 35 the air no longer cools the body -- unless you're naked -- even then it stops cooling at 37C. I used to keep a squirt bottle to occasionally mist down if I felt too hot - I also learned why Slurpees came in Bug Gulp sizes. I can only remember one instance of feeling I had to take action concerning heat while riding in Ontario.
Above 28C, just uncomfortable.
My advice from years of hot weather riding:
AGATT is still your best bet, but comfort is a critical factor in rider safety -- there is a tradeoff between comfort and protection.
- Pick a helmet with excellent ventilation. Your head releases a lot of heat.
- Ride visor up or off with good glasses for eye protection. Airflow and head cooling increase dramatically without a visor.
- If you're AGATT, invest in a good mesh jacket and pants. Better brands offer well-ventilated summer jackets, mileage varies on Chinesium from the jungle store.
- Wear summer gloves. Heavy gauntlets, insulated and Goretex gloves don't breathe well - hands also release a lot of heat.
- Keep hydrated. If feel thirsty - stop and drink something. If you hit coffee shops - it may sound counter-intuitive but a hot beverage will reduce core temps better than a cold one.
