Breaking Free!

[Catrin]

This Sunday I am going to be brave and hit a back country road! It is time to break out of my park "nursery" and take Stella (my Trek) out in the country to see how the real road feels

I AM a little nervous at the thought of being out in traffic that isn't creeping along slower than I am - but there is only one way to handle that, and that is to do it. This stretch of road has been recommended as having very little traffic. I have a 15 mile route sketched out, it is a big loop that will bring me back to my car. I have ridden up to 13 miles in the past, and there is a place where I can take a break if I need one.

I am really looking forward to this - since I will be alone there will be someone who knows my basic route and will send people looking for me if they don't hear from me by a certain time. All I have to do is to have fun and avoid being run over

[Tri Girl]

I'm sure you won't have any trouble, and you might just find it to be the most pleasant ride you've had! The first time breaking free is a BIG step!
Be sure to post and tell us all about it!!!

[tulip]

Yay! Can't wait for the ride report. Bring eats and drinks.

[Jiffer]

When I first started I took lots of breaks. Stop whenever you need to, even if just for a minute. I bet you're going to have a great time.

[MommyBird]

One thing I like to do is post a copy of my route on our refrigerator. I have printed maps of a variety of route lengths from my rural driveway. I put the one I am doing on the top of the stack and tell my boys I'm going out.

My Blackburn Fleas also make me feel more secure on the road. I have the head and tail lights and I put them both in the flicker mode.

I am still a long way off from having a hydration and nutrition routine. I haven't had any major issues yet but summer is approaching fast.

Something that my husband continues to remind me to do is make eye contact with drivers at intersections and at driveways. Never assume they have seen you until you get the nod or wave.

I have enjoyed my graduation to the real roads. Sometimes my husband tries to get me back to my practice park just for a loop and I won't do it. It is too claustrophobic after the wide open roads.

I am sure you will quickly take to the open road as well.

[lph]

Have a wonderful time Remember to "think car" - you're not a pedestrian squeezing along the side, you're a "car" in traffic, just a slow one. Your priority is to be visible and moving in a straight line on the right-hand side of the road, then traffic will have no trouble just passing you when it's clear. Your speed makes no difference, cars move much faster then you anyway. If you feel that looking behind you makes you wobble or weave, don't do it, or stop to do so.