Another week down and we're now in February - race season is just around the corner... where has the time gone ? This weekend is supposed to be fabulous (weather-wise) so I expect everyone to get a little antsy about it - it's what I call an amateur weekend. You know who I'm talking about - those who are arguably smarter and arguably have more self control than those of us that have been freezing our arses off while they quietly go crazy looking at their four walls for hours at a time, but this is the kind of weekend when people you haven't seen in months venture outdoors for the first time.
You can tell them apart from the rest of us - while those of us who have been conditioned to the cold temps will be in arm warmers and knee warmers, these basement-dwellers will be decked out in all their Christmas presents - the hard-core gear they received as holiday gifts, still brand new (sometimes with tags still attached!) because they never ventured outside.
Since they'll be bundled up like its February or something, you'll also be able to spot them by the trail of sweat they leave behind .... on the warm up portion of the ride.
These riders - remember they're our brethren, they just aren't as willing to put lubricant on their faces in the out of doors - they'll be a little sketchy in the pack since they aren't used to actually having to steer their bikes.
The novelty of scenery that moves and carrying on a conversation while riding will be a little overwhelming for them so speak slowly and clearly while they adjust to the higher levels of stimuli.
Last, and most importantly, welcome them back into the fold. They'll have to hibernate again as the temps drop again- this is just a beautiful respite from the cold and, for them, the boredom of yet another indoor trainer session.
In some ways, these indoor-winter-warriors are stronger than you and I. I can only speak for myself but the homicide rate in Baltimore would be significantly higher if I didn't get outside a couple times a week on the bike.
Enjoy the weekend - ride safe!
No comments:
Post a Comment