Recently while camping in a nature preserve, I went out for a ride in
the late afternoon and totally forgot the time. I was soon surrounded
by total darkness trying to get back to my campsite. (no light or
reflectors). The road I was on closes to automobile traffic at sundown
so I was fairly sure I wouldn't have any problems with oncoming
traffic. Still I made just enough noise the entire 3.5 miles to be
sure to give warning to anyone who might be riding or walking in the
dark. But was quiet enough to be able to hear scurrying armadillos and
who knows what all around me in the woods.
Until that night I hadn't realized how much I depend on sight and depth
perception to keep my balance and also to freemount. It was really
hard and at times nearly impossible to keep going in certain parts
especially where the trees were thick on both sides of the road
creating a "tunnel" that blocked out the stars. Small changes in the
road nearly freaked me out.. like changes in color of the road due to
oil stains? smooth repaired patches? It felt ridiculous to brace
myself for a bump or UPD only to realize that the large blob in front
of me was just the road.. I had a blast and eventually made it back
safely. Needless to say I was so pumped up all I wanted to do was go
out and ride some more. 🙂
A week later the same "miscalculation" happened while cycling on the
beach at a state park. One minute I'm riding along the packed sand
watching seagulls and pelicans fly over the dunes then the next moment
I was in darkness listening to the waves crashing next to me with stars
overhead. Since it was a state park, there were no lights whatsoever
to mark the boardwalk that would have taken me back to civilization
(can't confuse the turtles with artificial lights you know)... Me next
to the waves.. the boardwalk somewhere back up toward the dunes. I had
enough starlight reflecting off the water to keep me out of the ocean
but not enough to illuminate the dunes where the boardwalk would be. I
kept looking for a street light or something not realizing that there
wouldn't be one. Well, by the time I realized this I had gone
waaaaaay past the boardwalk. I made my way back tripping and pushing
the uni through thick soft sand. Carefully walking up against the
dunes so as not to pass the boardwalk again. I was totally exhausted
but very very pleased to finally find that hunk of stairs!
I think I should pack a light next time I set out anytime near sundown.
Then again, I absolutely loved riding in the dark even though it was a
bit scary both times. The sun will be down totally in a few minutes .
Should I gear up? :p
--
Unibugg
Into the blue said:You should see this fella ride up kerbs. He makes it look annoyingly
easy.
Ants make me UPD.
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