17 September 2011 Ride: Get Wet!

This morning, instead of hopping on the bike two hours before dawn, I leisurely made my way outside for a morning walk.  Last night, the weather forecast showed rain almost all day but this morning the rain forecast was more sporadic and biking later in the day seemed to be an option.  I had biked 4 of the last 5 days in the dark and, even though there is something special about riding at that time, I was ready for a change of pace. 

Cloudy Moon through Leaves

I was hoping to ride in the afternoon over to a tailgate party, make a short appearance and then ride back.  That would make a fun outing.  On my walk, I was tempted to head back and get the bike out; the air was completely still, the temperature just right and it wasn't raining.  But, no, I would take my chances.

Eyes, face and very long proboscis of a walking stick.

In the meantime, there was a casual breakfast and then tending to organizing and stacking the logs that had already been split.  That job ended taking over 2 1/2 hours and some of the predicted rain did come.

Rear end of walking stick.

 I kept watching the weather and it guaranteed (well, not exactly) some clear skies starting around 1:30.  I just might be able to get that tailgate ride in.  But 1:30 rolls around and the rain is really coming down.  Now, the map shows 2:00 for when the rain will move out. 2:00, still pouring.  This scenario goes on for the next hour with the map showing a clearing within 15 minutes over and over.  By 3:00 I decide it's time to ride.  Of course, the pouring rain has me changing plans.  I really wanted to get on my regular bike so as to try out the new crankshaft that was installed yesterday.  And, even though I may certainly end up riding in the rain on the trip to Shreveport, I'm not eager to needlessly take the bike out into the rain and have housings and components already blasted by wet grit.  So, the mountain bike it is and riding in the neighborhood it is.

Wildflowers on the side of the road.

For the first half hour of the ride the rain is really pelting down and the wind really blowing.  But it felt good to be riding.  Gradually the rain ceased and I came close to getting in the 24 miles a day I'm now shooting for.  More rain in the forecast for all day tomorrow.

Today's Ride:  2hrs 3mins.  21.5 miles.  59 degrees.  Rain.  Miles YTD:  6,473.98

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