Anyone else have Good Samaritans who stop to help with your bike?

[ny biker]

Well, that's cause you ride in Virginia!

I can crack that joke because I was born and raised in NoVa, before crossing the river into MD Seriously, though, that is a shame. There does seem to be some difference riding closer to the city than farther out. Once you're past the suburbs, folks are also more inclined to wave and say hello as they go by. That's probably part of the reason why I so rarely ride anywhere within 25 miles of DC.

Actually it has happened to me in Montgomery County! But it was on Beach Drive, which I think has gotten less pleasant for riding over the years. Just too many people in too much of a hurry.

There was one very hot day (riding in Virginia!) when I had to get up a very big hill in order to get home, and I was resting under a tree at the bottom before starting the climb. A woman in a minivan pulled over and offered me a ride to the top. I said no thanks because I generally don't get into cars with strangers, but before long I was wishing I had taken her up on her offer. Luckily someone living at the top of the hill had a sprinkler on in their front yard, so I stood under it for a few minutes to cool off. I half-expected the homeowner to come out and ask what the hell I was doing in their yard, but either they didn't see me or they didn't mind.

And yes, I have since realized that I need to avoid riding on hot summer afternoons. I just can't handle the heat.

[Jiffer]

I have since realized that I need to avoid riding on hot summer afternoons. I just can't handle the heat.

Just a tip for times when you can't avoid riding in the heat. If you have a place for two bottles, keep water in one and your sports drink in the other. The water bottle being primarily for dumping on your head, down the front of your shirt, on your legs. It's good to soak your clothes with it, because it will last longer.

On a 65 mile stupid hot and humid day, dh and I had to do our last training ride on our tandem for a century. We stopped often for water refills and dowsed ourselves as often as possible. It's the only thing that made the ride somewhat bearable and the water was amazingly helpful. And you can fill your bottle at a hose or drinking fountain or whatever. Doesn't have to be special "drinking" water.

[spindizzy]

Alas - I have only had one flat out on the road; when I was brand new to serious cycling. I was a mere 5k from home and felt my rim. I had only practiced changing a front tire! Pulled off to the side, flipped my bike over and got to work.

I have never had so many fine looking male cyclists and even fine looking men in cars just looking for a (sweaty, tired) damsel in distress. Unfortunately for them, I am a very proud damsel, sent them on their merry way with a smile and a wave and managed the flat all by myself!

I carry extra tubes myself and have given a few away - just asked them to "pay it forward."