The other day, I was looking at the weather and saw the changes coming for AZ. I figured if I could get up and on the road around 6am, I would avoid the worst...
So around 11am... I finally woke up, and got on the road.
My first hint was that I could not see the Catalina's looking out the window. My second hint was almost being pushed aside as I went outside, as the wind was really blowing. This was going to be an interesting ride!
Now this short, little 90 min ride, is usually pretty easy and fun. Not today.
20 to 35 mph crosswinds, sustained, with gusts up to 50 mph! I saw cars and trucks being knocked around... and I was riding. It was almost a constant left turn just to stay traveling straight and more importantly, in my lane of travel. Right turns, those were easy... all I had to do was straighten up and let the wind push me over. Left turns... it felt like I was leaning over >45 degrees at times... that natural instinct to stick ones knee out... like that would really help...
A hard right (90 degree bend in the road)... left third, straighten up a bit, lean left to stay center and drift left, straighten up, lean left to stay in lane and drift center, finish the turn and lean left again! A right turn, completed without every really turning right!!!
I actually did something that most bikers avoid... drafted behind a semi for awhile... a short respite from the buffeting crosswinds.
Tonight, I will find my bandanas! Sucking dust... well... it just does! They will go into my saddlebag for next time. And I have a new appreciation, that is understanding, of a phrase.
"Live to ride, ride to live!"
Today... I did both...
SBAJS
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