From November 1st through April 5th the average low temperature does not exceed 32 degrees. The ground is covered with snow, again on average, from mid-December to mid-March. The average annual snowfall is 50 inches, and closer to 60 inches on the ridge tops. On December 20th a mere 9 hours and 8 minutes separate sunrise and sunset.

But don't despair, and don't resign yourself to the rollers in the basement just yet. Winter riding also provides exceptional scenery, invigorating air, and the seductive hope that you will not need to shed 10 pounds at the beginning of spring riding.

The VO2 Velo winter cycling program, I  CYCLE, recognizes and honors those cyclists who, as an inspiration to the rest of us, pedal through the dark days of winter. Yes we question their sanity, but we also appreciate their tenacity, and from them we learn the finer points of winter apparel, bicycle equipment, lighting, hydration, nutrition, and preferred riding routes.

Here's how the program works. Starting on the Winter Solstice, December 21st, each participating rider starts a log of miles ridden. In addition to mileage the rider logs the starting and ending temperature of each ride. The log is forwarded to the club for weekly tabulation and posting on the website.

The program runs from the Winter Solstice to the Vernal Equinox (December 21st to March 20th). The club will bestow valuable prizes (OK, this is very unlikely) for  monthly and overall mileage winners, lowest temperature riders, longest distance, and any other winter riding feat deserving of recognition.

To participate*:     1) Send an e-mail to ICYCLE@vo2velo.org 

                            2) Download and print your Winter Riding Log.

                            3) Send weekly updates of your riding

                             4) Compare your miles on the I CYCLE Record.

 * Most VO2 Velo events are open to the public, but the ICYCLE  program is limited to members only. Click here to join.