Tips for Summer Commute in Tucson, AZ Heat?
#26
Senior Member
Personally I draw the line at 105, which is pretty rare where I live. It's not so much the temperature, but if I have to stop to fix a flat or something 110+ gets somewhere between very uncomfortable to dangerous.
Like others have said, hydration and keep moving are key.
Like others have said, hydration and keep moving are key.
I've changed a flat in over 110 and every minute counts, after about 10 minutes of sitting the rage starts to kick in. Make sure speed is part of your flat fixing skills.
#27
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#28
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hydration, Hydration, HYDRATION! Drink BEFORE you feel thirsty. In fact, make deliberate plans to stop and hydrate at specific locations along the way just so you don't over do it. 12 miles isn't very far, but without knowing your overall conditioning it's best to recommend an aggressive hydration routine.
Sunscreen for exposed skin areas and loose fitting, light colored clothing everywhere else. Technical fabrics shed moisture better than cotton and a white helmet will help with your head.
-Kedosto
Sunscreen for exposed skin areas and loose fitting, light colored clothing everywhere else. Technical fabrics shed moisture better than cotton and a white helmet will help with your head.
-Kedosto
I rode year round, even when the temps climb north of 100 or 110. For a 12 mile commute, start off taking more water than you think you need, drink regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty, and wear sunscreen where ever your skin is exposed.
My commute was 19 miles most of the time I lived there, and 2 - 1.5 liter bottles were plenty adequate. You're commuting though, and unless you're far from the city, you can always stop at a convenience store or gas station and fill up. (It's illegal NOT to give someone water in AZ if they ask for it and you have it, so water is always free at these places.)