The chill of late September mornings conjures a world of fog. The simple rides of summer give way to more demanding circumstances as both temperatures and visibility decline on a regular basis. In the dim light of morning the Vespa and I engage a tentative fog pas de deux as I judge what nature has presented.
My eagerness to ride in a world of fog and mist borders on fanaticism and I have to guard against unwise decisions regarding when I should and shouldn’t ride a scooter in fog.
The choice of riding route is especially important when riding in the fog. Seeking out the road less traveled is always at the top of my riding goals — especially where fog is concerned. Scenic short cuts are common options during my ride to work. If I was faced with heavy traffic my feelings about riding in the fog would be markedly different.
Today was the first day of autumn, the Autumnal Equinox, and the fog seemed appropriate, touching a genetically programmed response from some distant primal need to prepare for winter. The First Gear Kilimanjaro jacket is the frequent choice as the temperature drops in the low 50s. Soon I’ll be touching the controls for the heated grips. And not far off will be the mounting of my Heidenau K66 LT Snow Tex tires.
I so hate the bite of frigid air and light starved days. And I so love the challenge of riding on through it all until I come out at the other side as spring flowers begin to bloom.
Always like your foggy weather riding shots.
A silver Vespa in fog, I imagine she blends into the fog easily?
Good ride this morning, but since I got my Stella this past April, today was the first time I really had to battle with visor condensation on the outside of my helmet. What do you do to mitigate the condensation build up from a classic Central PA misty autumn morning fog?
Today, the heated gear got dragged out and used as it was 21°F. I think our foggy days will be few and far between until the middle of winter. Beautiful photos with the fog.
The one time I really avoid riding is around 7:40 am. That’s when the HS kids who are running late are rushing to school…
Gorgeous pics.
No fog here yet to speak of, but it’s on it’s way. Adds to the variety of riding experience!
Early morning dew on the lawns, grass and shrubbery; wet tops of vehicles left outside overnight, a touch of a chill in the air, these are a few of my less favourite things. And like you Steve dread the onslaught of cool mornings, colder nights and shortend days of sunlight.
As long as we are not the vitims of fog in our daily activities. No doubt the dogs in the early morning hours come inside after their morning abulutions more than just a wee bit damp.