Riding in the rain is rather a mixed bag. On the one hand, it can be exhilarating to be out there for a spirited ride during a downpour: “Take that, Mother Nature!”

But on the other hand, a rainy ride can be a frustrating, dis-spiriting slog. I’ve been out there on the road bike when it started raining hard; and the wind got nasty.

Wind makes the rain seem even harder that it is; and a headwind makes visibility in rain worse — especially if you wear glasses. If you’ve got a strong sidewind, bike control is more difficult; especially when you must ride one-handed while getting a drink of water. More than once I’ve had to stop entirely to get that drink, because the wind was simply too much.

All tbat is before we consider the temperature while riding in the rain. Even in hot weather, it can get quite cold in rainy conditions; and in cold weather, it’s downright miserable. My torso might stay somewhat warm, thanks to a cycling jacket and my own physical effort. If I have warming packs, my hands can stay reasonably warm.

But the rest of me? Even if I’m wearing a poncho, I get plenty wet; and my leg warmers, socks, and everything else get drenched. I keep saying I ought to try a rain suit; but I’ve never gotten around to buying one. And if there’s lightning? Better stay home, and pedal in the trainer.