August 01, 2008

Riding in the Rain and Dark

The worst riding conditions make the best riders

    Recently got caught in the rain at the end of a long day. I rode from California to Spearfish, South Dakota, and arrived as the shadows were growing long,

    I could see thunderstorms ahead, and sweated out my gas situation until I finally had a chance to fill up. At the gas station, I heard that not only was there heavy rain, but hail as well.

    Newly confident with a full tank, I headed into the storms. First the bugs were washed from the bike, then I got soaked, then that clammy feeling of wet, cold leather.

    Soon I was concentrating on making time on the windy roads of Spearfish Canyon, with some mud thrown in where the road was being worked on. I don't like riding when it is dark, and the rain made it worse.

    However, I have to admit that I felt really good about the ride almost the second I finished that part of the trip. While I would never choose to ride in these conditions, it was the kind of thing that can't help but make you a better rider.

    From now on, when you find yourself weather challenged, go for it with gusto. Wet conditions force to to be smooth.

Topic Tags: motorcycle, motorcycle riding, Spearfish Canyon, Spearfish South Dakota, thunder storm

Motorcycle Addict

Riding in the Rain and Dark