It was after many days since I rode my bike, the weather was pleasant due to monsoon season, and I developed a late sleeping habit (2.30- 3 am). Tonight I thought to ride as I was feeling the energy boost, I have to spend it somehow, so I decided to go for a midnight cycle ride.
The ride preparation started with checking my tyre 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 the bed with bib shorts and jersey on and troubling extra tubes on the jersey pocket. The material kept on the rear pocket was troubling as could not lay down for a while and the phone was at 30% battery charge so did not use it to save the power for the 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 and 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 were good enough to ride. At this moment it was difficult to cancel the ride after 20 minutes wait 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 going 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 you get into a new pothole. So a slow ride plan, 50 km in mind, the highway that is enough lit and broad enough to ride at night. In the first 1 km, the rain started increasing its intensity, which means I had to rethink my plan. The plan of avoiding any punctures in the rain as getting back from a long distance could be difficult. I know 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 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 to 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 pours 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 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 care about the traffic rules if they are not being seen. Cars and motorcycles will always be there 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 in Monsoon.
What is your experience of the rainy ride, do share them with us?
