I knew the sun was going to come out today and I would be able to ride my favorite motorcycle to work. I went to sleep thinking about it last night. Since I hadn’t ridden to work lately, I had to plan what layers of warmth I would need, especially since it would be warmer coming home in the afternoon.
It was slightly above freezing when I backed my bike out of the garage and started her up. She smoked and coughed, but then began purring smoothly.
The ride was great, the sun was coming out, but it was pretty chilly. By the time my 20 minutes of riding was almost over, my fingers started feeling the cold. I had a few vents open in my helmet, but my face-shield kept getting fogged up on the inside. I ended up opening it slightly so it would stay clear, and soon found I actually liked the feeling of the cold air in my face.
My co-worker also rode in today, and his commute is about 35 miles each way. He has heated grips so has a small advantage against the cold. We made our own ‘motorcycle parking’ area today.
I passed many bikes out this morning doing exactly what I was. Each bike I passed waved because we were all so happy to be out again, even in the cold. The pavement was completely dry and I didn’t run into many gravelly spots. I was on well travelled roads most of the way.
The ride home was comfortable but the air was still frigid. I wanted to keep riding somewhere besides home, but it is Valentine’s Day and I wanted to be home to await my surprise (I’m dreaming) It was so refreshing to be out in the fresh air, and I had missed the rumble of my Vulcan. I’m very comfortable with the size of the bike now, but I still have to wear my highest biker boots to be able to push off the ground.
This coming weekend looks a little warmer than today (maybe will reach 50!) and partly sunny. Guess what I will be doing? I also have Presidents Day Monday off work, and it is likely to be a riding kind of day. Things are looking up!
10 comments:
I'm jealous. Look... sun, clear streets...sigh.....
wow, tahzt certainly a nice thing to hear. :-) wish you more and more sunny days so that you can enjoy riding out. I may go and look on a bike (Royal Enfield 350 Single) this weekend, and if shez is a fine model, will bring her home. My air rifile is getting ready and I am planing to pick it up, and then a pair of leather riding boots too. should be pretty exciting :)
Brrr! But I bet you feel a whole lot better now. :)
Oh, you're SO LUCKY!
I'm envious! Glad u took advantage of such a great day. Don't forget to thank the Biker Gods for the invention of the detachable windshield!
Hell, even I feel better now that you got out on your bike! ;-)
Bumblevee: The streets were clear, but the sun had no warmth. Today it rained again.
xh: That is exciting. Hope you get the bike. Happy riding.
Linda: I do feel better now. I should be riding all weekend.
Liz: It was lucky that I got to ride once in Feb. so far. Hope there's more.
Joker: I really like my windshield in the cold wind. Don't be jealous, you'll be riding before you know it.
Crusty: I'm glad you care!
You lucky girl. I was able to ride for a bit this past Sunday and like you my finger tips were so cold... I was happy with the little time I was out. Your bike looks wonderful.
Jovi: I'm glad you got to ride a little too. It's what keeps me going. Thanks, my bike is still shiny!
Bikerchickz
Isn't it amazing how just a short ride can brighten your day.......Jump on her and ride ever chance you get.
Ride Safe,
Ronman
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