Early season commuting observations

[Mark57]

I rode on May 2nd, then we've had snow and wind till late last week. Last week I got a bout of epididymitis in my left nut, so riding was kind of out of the question. Today was somewhat questionable as well, since the first and last half-mile of my commute is on a rough dirt/gravel road. Ouch.

My bike, with lights, pump, Armadillos, seat pack with tube and tools, weighs probably close to 25 lbs. With warmers, jacket, backpack, work clothes, rider etc. it comes in at over 250 lbs.

The damn bike could stand to lose 25-30 lbs.

Drivers haven't got any smarter since my last regular commuting in early December. Apparently it's still possible to pass a bike going 20+ mph in a 30 mph zone and still make that right turn with plenty of room. Bikes have powerful brakes and can stop on a dime, right?

When you're a few months shy of 49, aerobic fitness is a relative term. And being fairly fit last fall is in no way relevant to your fitness level this spring.