Ride Report: Autumn Equinox Night Ride

A week ago we went out to ride in the night.  No broken spokes!  Yippee!

I have a particular fondness for this route.  For the most part it’s quiet and almost traffic-free.  Yes, there are a couple of spots that require close attention, but something like 35 miles of this fall into that “almost-no-cars” category.

It was a bit cool at ride time, with a prediction of fairly rapid cooling to come.  Most folks had heeded the warning to dress for a cooler ride.

We pulled out right on time, and after just a wee bit of fumbling at the start, got ourselves sorted out and proceeded in good order.

It got dark right on schedule, but a rising half moon and a crystal clear night added charm.  I didn’t see anyone with inadequate lighting.  Folks handled traffic and road conditions very well.  I was pleased with the mutual courtesy and good humor exhibited by all.

We did take the unusual step of stopping about mid-way through to allow for “clothing adjustment.”  (It was getting kinda cool out.)

Other than that one fumbling incident at the beginning, it was a smooth and nearly flawless ride.  I’ve mentioned that twice, and I know enquiring minds will want to know.  It was no big thing.  There was a bit of miscommunication when one rider decided to withdraw early.  Easily fixed and not a major incident at all.

The cooler temps added a bit of spice to the whole evening.  We kept up a 15+ mph rolling average, which is not at all bad for a night ride.

I particularly enjoyed this one, as it was a blend.  I saw several old friends who haven’t been around for a while, and there were several new one too.

Present for the trip were (In no particular order) Chris, Judy, Bob, Jim, Scott, Dan, Van, Travis, Mike, Courtenay, Phil, Theresa, Amanda, and your correspondent.

I can just about wait for the next one.  It’s the Samhain Mid-Fall edition, sort of a “Sleepy Hollow” ride, and very seasonally appropriate.  (A caution, this one will have a few short miles of dirt road in it.)  The Samhain Mid-Fall Celebration Night Ride goes on 5 November, and will leave from the Hollonville Opry House.  Be there!