I set the alarm clock early so I would have time to make a more leisurely ride into work this morning. As I rider I pay a lot more attention to the detail and nuance of weather forecasts that I would if I was driving or riding the bus. The details of weather matter. Before bed last night the forecast called for a possibility of snow accumulating less than an inch by 4AM. When I checked the forecast at 5:15 AM that forecast remained. Twenty minutes later the forecast called for clear and sunny. Go figure.
The temperature was a balmy 25 degrees F when I pulled out of the driveway. The sky was just beginning to show a warm glow from the soon to rise sun. There were few cars on the road but the ones that did pass seemed to stir up a cloud of salt dust, something I’m sure is good for my lungs. The ride was great and I love to see the sun rise albeit through my rear view mirrors this morning.
I don’t consider myself a daily commuter though lately I have been riding to work more regularly as I push myself to deal with the cold and snow. An ice storm is predicted this evening so I have already begun to wonder about riding in that weather.
You are so right about the weather forecasts Steve. I never used to pay any attention to them till I was commuting on two wheels, now I can tell you the forecast five days ahead and exactly why I don’t believe a word of it! I only trust the 24 hour forecasts, the long range ones are just guess work.
When we ride we’re conected with the planet and her moods again; another reason why i love it.
I’m always amazed by how much difference the 44 mile ride makes in what weather I encounter. For some reason in this valley it gets colder farther South. It can be 37 when I leave home and I think there will be no ice. When I get that far South it can get just cold enough for there to be ice. There is a river near Springfield that has a huge affect on making a lot of fog. It can be foggy all the way down and clear there or vice versa. I just kind of figure the average and go for it.