Seems like we’re all juicier on cold-weather rides. There’s more need to expectorate and/or expel the contents of one’s nasal passages.
That’s not a pretty picture, but it gets even uglier for the rider behind if you don’t use proper technique.
When spitting, you need to direct it downward with force. Otherwise, the wind could catch it and douse those to your rear.
The best position is with your hands on the hoods. In one choreographed movement, dip your head slightly, turn it an inch to the left or right, and blow that wad under your elbow as the leg on that side reaches the bottom of the stoke.
If you have trouble hitting that window between your elbow and leg, tuck in your elbow, turn your head a little more to the side, and take the next-to-the-shoulder route.
If you’re in a paceline, spit to the right side off the road (in drive-on-the-right countries; opposite for the others). If not, do it to the side least likely to dampen or offend those around you.
Clearing one’s nose is a little trickier. It’s not a bad idea to wait till you’re at the rear of the group. Or pull out, away from other riders, and check your clearance.
Again,think downward with force. Push your right nostril shut with your right index finger, turn your head to the left, and blow your left side clean. Then reverse directions. To keep the bike on a straight line, hold the handlebar on top next to the stem.
Practice a little and soon you’ll be spewing like a pro!
LOLOLOL!!!! Getting the trajectory correct can be an art in itself. I am going to have to show my daughter how to do this properly. She is 8 and in the spring, we are ditching the “kid” bike and getting her a road bike. I can’t wait until we can do long rides together.
I “blow, wipe and throw” with my thumb and forefinger and fling it to the side out of the path of riders in the paceline behind me. This gets the most out and away quickly.
I use the left index finger placed on the bridge of the nose to close the right nostril and blow under the left elbow – reverse for the other nostril. Seems to be the most downward for me and keeps “stuff” off my jersey shoulders.
I just use a handkerchief.
Actually, fingers aren’t required to blow your nose. Just blast both pipes at the same time and keep both hands on the bars. It’s quicker and safer that way and not any messier.