As the warmer weather started making itself at home in the Bay Area I decided it was time to start putting some miles on my tires. Tires are one of those products that will go bad whether you use them or not. So why not enjoy them instead of just letting the tires dry out and crack.
On Saturday or Sunday, I typically join the usual crowd of weekend warriors on the Foothill, Portola Valley, Canada road route. I enjoy the wind in my face and the comradery of the other riders. I have lost count of how many times I have been asked by a passing rider if I need help whenever I happen to incur a flat. On one of my rides to the top of Mount Hamilton another rider simply handed me a spare tube, so that I could save my patches and be back on the road. What generosity.
It is not uncommon to form a pace line with several other cyclists on the road. It's a good way to up everyone's average speed. This semi-social group is also a bit competitive. I have been marked too many times by some green jersey as "that rider up the road". Of course, I too have been guilty of taking aim at that rear wheel ahead of me. I am, however, less often to make a successful brake.
When I was very young, I used to think I would never be as good as those riders older than me. But time has a way of leavening everyone's abilities. As I grew older, I improved in my abilities and started holding my own. But, being older is only a temporary advantage. So remember, when the bread starts to become stale, it's time to make toast.
(click on map to enlarge)
