A lazy cold day, a not too-exerting pace, and our destination? A humble Irish pub with a back dining room and fireplace. What more is there to life, except maybe a warmer pair of gloves.

We'll travel from New York to Hoboken, via the George Washington Bridge, following the proposed Harbor Ring Route, with stops at the Fireman's Park (and bike trail), in Fort Lee, the James Braddock Park lake, and Bull's Ferry Road (an almost vertical descent that only the most skilled will ride; the rest will walk or use an alternate route). From there, with panoramic views of Manhattan on our left, we'll hug the waterline and the Hudson Waterfront Bike Path, as we meander to Weehawken Waterfront Park, a Japanese supermarket, and the little-explored Hoboken Museum. Our final destination is, of course, Carpe Diem, and depending on the weather -- and we are hoping for, perversely, cold but not too cold weather -- the fireplace should be aglow. And remember: It's slow as you go. This is a leisurely pre pre-spring training ride, which'll stay comfortably close to Manhattan without venturing too far into the windy wilds of the outer boroughs or 9W. Return is via Water Taxi to 34 Street, Manhattan.

Meet up is 10 AM at Chelsea Piers, but those who would like to join up with us along the way either at the Greenway at 72, 96, or the GW, email the leaders.

Route, turns, elevation, map, and distance: http://www.bikely.com/maps/bike-path/ring-ride