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I'm beginning to think winter is not ending this year. Should we start a poll to see where people stand on this issue? Maybe we can correlate the results with those who prefer Obama to Clinton. Obama: summer. Clinton: winter.

I've become quite skilled at navigating ice and snow. The recent sloppy snowfalls and melting/freezing cycles has created ideal conditions for chunky, rutted and very slick streets. Back in November I would have slipped or fallen once per ride but now I've got the hang of it, taking the bumps head on and riding over black ice with confidence (as long as I'm not heading downhill). You get a knack for it: no sudden movements, no sharp turns. Perhaps I can learn to love winter riding if I'm stuck in it long enough.

My bike is a different matter. It's quickly oxidizing. I may have to replace a number of rusty parts like the chain, cables, housing and perhaps even the rear dérailleur. The salt gets in everywhere and no bike part is safe from its corrosion.

I hope the banner won't become permanent.