It was a beautiful fall afternoon that really couldn’t be missed. Dry, warm, and calm were the ideal conditions for cycling.
I nearly missed it, as I had some late-afternoon responsibilities that didn’t get me home until shortly after 6pm. I did a quick check to learn that the sunset was scheduled for 7:04pm – giving me the shortest of duration for a ride.
But, it had been far too long since I’d been on the bike (around two weeks) so there was little to stop me from riding. I packed up my front and rear flashing LEDs lights and hit the roads for a quick loop through my usual roads of Medina.
It has really been silly that I haven’t ridden much over the last few weeks as there have been plenty of chances to jump on the bike. I’ve felt a little burned out on the whole cycling thing and needed a little break. Fortunately, getting back in the saddle still feels great and I now regret leaving it behind for so long. It’s amazing how mind-clearing of an activity cycling can be. My busy life over the past few weeks has needed some “clearing of the mind”.
Trying to close out the outdoor riding season will be full of challenges over the coming few weeks – most of them related to available sunlight. The days are shortening quickly and October gets increasingly more difficult to find riding hours that don’t conflict with working hours. I may even be tempted to setup the trainer in the basement to get some time during mid-week (ugh). I’d still like to be a little in-shape for some weekend riding as chances dwindle.
After work riding also has its share of dangers, as the evening commuter is now challenged with a blinding sun. I have a strong respect for how dangerous it can be to ride the roads under these conditions and do everything I can to be visible to all motorists.
But the reward is far worth the risk.
