Eastcoast / Atlantic coast in November

[Gerard from abroad]

Hi guys - newbie from abroad here. I'm planning to come to the US in November for my work, and might be able to extend my stay with a few weeks (first 2 weeks of Nov). Will be in Philly, B'more and/or Washington and I just saw the 'Atlantic Coast'-track on this site. Now my questions:
- is it possible to pick up this track and ride down south in November, or will it be freezing cold? I'm generally ok with cold, but don't want to freeze to death
- if it's not, what would be good track to cycle? (as in: I can always try to book a plane to another place to cycle)
- gear question: I won't be able to take stuff (meaning 'hardware', e.g. bicycle) with me. Does anyone know of any good rental places / chains / websites?

Hope your experience can help me here!

[Gerard from abroad]

And in addition to that question: what about the 'Tidewater Potomac'?

[staehpj1]

And in addition to that question: what about the 'Tidewater Potomac'?

I think that trip is dependent on the ferry which I don't think runs that time of year.  Check to be sure before committing.

I live in the Baltimore MD area and heading south from here should be OK weather wise.  It might be cold at times, but will probably not be too bad if you stay with the coast and out of the mountains.  Also chances of cold weather will be less as you head south.

[JimF]

And in addition to that question: what about the 'Tidewater Potomac'?

Gerard:
A quick look at temperatures in D.C. in early November estimates an average of about 16 C, with a couple of lows near 0 C. We did a shortened Tidewater Potomac in 2007 (summer, though) due to one of the ferries at the bottom of the loop to get us across the Chesapeake Bay stopped running (Smith Point, Virginia to Smith Island) . If you decide on this route, check with ACA headquarters on their availability. We took the Henry Nice Bridge to cross from Virginia to Maryland. Bicyclists must cross via a motor vehicle. The maintenance staff may help with this; advance notice and follow-up is strongly advised; otherwise, one could ask drivers headed across at the commercial area before the bridge. Enjoy your stay.

[Gerard from abroad]

Staeph and Jim, thanks for your answer. Will find out about the ferry (and bridge), good point.

Of anyone has a view at gear (more specific: bicycle rental in the Baltimore/Washington area), please feel free to give it ...

[Westinghouse]

I cycled from JFK in NYC to southeast coastal Florida near the end of October, arriving in South Florida the 9th of November. It was just fine as a matter of fact. When you get those north winds pushing you and a cold front south, you will do eighty miles like a walk in the park. Do plan on the cold.
November weather varies.

[Westinghouse]

You can cycle south without using the ferries. If you take ACA's route it is another matter.