Blanche, your story frightens me a bit (although I don't happen to ride in similar deserted roads) but mostly makes me angry. Why is it that women should be harassed and forced into carrying weapons to protect themselves from a couple of idiots out there that feel it's exciting to creep us up (if not worse!!)? Why do they need to have such a control on women? Why is it that very few men will ever have similar feelings when riding (or walking or whatever) alone anywhere?? Why is that we'd feel like we have to ride with some guy just to feel safe??? Why is it that we even have to THINK about the eventuality of such a thing happening??????

It makes me so mad.

I am not sure about the right course of action to take in such a situation but it sounds like you did the best you could do.

Ride strong ladies, don't let anyone intimidate you. I love you all.