SPOTLIGHT: Cold-weather riders keep pedaling

"In fact, they are too warm if the temperature is above 35 (degrees)," he said. "I also wear knee-high snowboarding socks to help keep my feet and lower legs warm. Between 25 and 30 degrees, I have to add chemical toe warmers and one or two more light shirts."

Gruetzmacher usually doesn't go out when the thermometer dips below 25.

"I cannot keep my feet warm enough without investing in winter riding shoes," he said.

Gruetzmacher is looking forward to summer rides with the McHenry County Bicycle Club, he added.

Until then, he'll keep riding.

"One of my goals is to ride at least one ride of 30 miles in each of the coldest months of the year," Gruetzmacher said.

Information from: The Northwest Herald, http://www.nwherald.com