It's getting chilly...help a first time cold weather rider

[Delicious]

This may be a bit off topic, but you shower before the ride? Do you shower again immediately afterwards?

Yes. And, yes. It's just part of my routine.

 

[Tony Storaro]

Autumn- October, November and early December-up until the moment the lifts open (after that-bikes get wrapped up in cotton and put in a dry and safe place) is my absolutely favourite time of the year for cycling. When it's dry. Road cycling in the rain sucks.

Winter shoes or shoe covers
Fall and then winter bibs-you can choose ones without pad and wear your summer pants under them.
Base layer-thin merino T shirt
Mid layer-also merino
Jacket-I personally use Gore Tex jacket when it is above 5C and a proper winter riding jacket when it goes below.
Neck warmer.
Winter cap under the helmet.
Something that many many people do not wear but I found absolutely indispensable- helmet cover. Not only it keeps your head dry in the rain but also prevents air flow and keeps your head much warmer.
Gloves- I use neoprene gloves when it gets real cold.

And that's about it. You might want to drop the tyre pressure a bit following the great advise of the lorry drivers: Summer tires minus 2 bars pressure equal winter tires.

 

[Tony Storaro]

Yes. And, yes. It's just part of my routine.

Super important is to dry yourself well after the shower tho.
Very few things in life suck more than getting into the bibs while wet.

 

[Brian Likes Pow]

This may be a bit off topic, but you shower before the ride? Do you shower again immediately afterwards?

I'm with you. That warm shower after a cold ride is heaven. Also a coffee/whisky is a fantastic way to warm up...after