Auckland to Ohakune COLD

[erik]

They're ok but mine certainly let water in and a rain oversuit makes the difference between warm and cold. For $100 an oversuit will make a huge difference, cuts all the wind and adds a layer of insulating air.

+1
I've got dririder cordura pants and they're ok for commuting in the rain and with the liner in they're probably ok for shorter rides.
But I think for stopping the wind, you really need a PVC oversuit, either one piece or two piece. Two piece is way easier to get into and you can wear the jacket by itself to stop the wind if that's all you want.
I've only tried 2 cordura jackets, a Feildsheer and my current Arlen Ness one. They're both supposed to have waterproof breathable liners in them, but from riding with them, then riding with the non-breathable rain jacket on top, the breathable gear doesn't stop wind well at all.

[klingon]

In addition to everything those people have said already (amazing - a KB thread that has stayed on topic and sensible!) I would add three things:

1) A kidney belt/back protector can add a lot of warmth around your torso without restricting movement.

2) Don't have any gaps, anywhere. Make sure your gloves overlap your sleeves, your socks/boots and trouser legs have plenty of overlap and a snug fit, and you have a good neck warmer so you don't get a draft down your collar. If in doubt, get wide strips of elastic fabric and take it in your backpack so you can wrap it sweatband-style around any gaps if you discover them once you're on the road!

3) Move around on your bike at every opportunity to keep the blood circulating. Flex your fingers, shrug your shoulders, turn your head, raise yourself up off the seat, stick your feet out and waggle them around. Not all at once of course! I think of this as 'bike yoga' and it makes a huge difference to how cosy I feel on a long cold ride. (Also keeps any following traffic amused)

Have a fun ride!

[blossomsowner]

how about a wheat bag or two down your clothing.....hold the heat for ages and can be reheated in every petrol station microwave along the way.