It was after many days since I rode my bike. The weather was pleasant due to monsoon season, and I had developed a late sleeping habit (2:30-3 am). Tonight, I thought to ride as I was feeling an energy boost. I had to spend it somehow, so I decided to go for a midnight cycle ride.
The ride preparation started with checking my tire air pressure, of course, which was low. I charged my phone and lights for 30 mins and lubed the bike a little bit. It was difficult to wait for those 30 minutes in bed with bib shorts and a jersey on and troubling extra tubes in the jersey pocket. The material kept in the rear pocket was troubling as I could not lay down for a while, and the phone was at 30% battery charge, so I did not use it to save the power for the rainy night ride and avoid the slow charge. Eventually, I gave up after 20 mins of peaceful excitement and the exciting dullness of doing nothing. I took the water bottle, sipped some hydration juice, put the helmet on, and I was ready with my shoes on.
It was just a matter of going out, switching on the lights, and starting my Apple Watch outdoor cycle workout. As I reached out, it was sprinkling. The roads were already wet but good enough for riding in the rain. At this moment, it was difficult to cancel the ride after 20 minutes of waiting in bed and then 100% desire to ride. So you know what, I decided, F*CK IT, I WILL RIDE today.
The plan was to ride 50 kms at least, but I planned to go slowly to avoid potholes on the roads, which are less visible at night. Also, in monsoon season, the roads deteriorate too fast, so you never know if you get into a new pothole. So, a slow ride plan, 50 km in mind, on the highway that is well-lit and broad enough for a midnight cycling adventure. In the first 1 km, the rain started increasing its intensity, which meant I had to rethink my plan. The plan was to avoid any punctures in the rain, as getting back from a long distance could be difficult. I knew I could change the tube in the midway. However, it is more difficult if it’s raining or the tires are muddy. Not to forget, you can’t expect a ride-sharing car to allow you to use his clean vehicle as you have a muddy back and a dirty bike. Therefore, I decided to circle the vicinity of my house.
I went on a shorter route, nearby roads. Things got better at another place where the rain was lesser, or even the roads were dry. But no luck here, the rain poured faster again, harsher on the face and eyes, making it a blinding ride. Guess what, I decided to return home. I was already 12 km far, so I had another 12 km to manage in a difficult situation.
I managed the 12 km ride in the rain with the reward on my back: the reward of mud that was from my feet to my helmet. It did not seem so bad while riding. I managed to ride slow but safe and finally reached home. Then it was time to clean the muddy cycle and, of course, the clothes. It’s hard to believe I was carrying that much mud on my clothes.
FYI, I ride in Delhi, India. Some roads are good enough; other roads are too dangerous. Traffic is violent. No one cares about the traffic rules if they are not being seen. Cars and motorcycles will always be coming from the wrong side. So ride safe.
You know it’s unsafe to ride at night. It’s further difficult to ride in the rain, and riding at night in the rain is the most difficult task. Remember to go slow if you feel low confidence. Return if you feel it can be worse and be prepared for what comes on the way. One more learning: I forgot to carry a rain jacket and a waterproof bag to keep my phone and important accessories. You must keep it during monsoon for a safe night cycling experience.
What is your experience with the midnight cycle ride? Do share it with us.
Also check out India won 10 medals on the day one of Asian Track Cycling Championship being held in New Delhi
