The weather was great here in Charlotte, NC yesterday and it made for a great evening to ride at the Huntersville Business Park. I was able to get to the park about 4:30 and squeezed in about 18 miles of solo riding before a small group of riders showed up. The temp. was close to 65 degrees but the shady course was still slightly on the chilly side.
I had to stop for a few minutes as all the workers in the business park started leaving work. Traffic sorta got hectic. With 8 out of 10 drivers talking on their cell phones and 10 out of 10 being in a hurry to get home, I thought it would be best to get out of their way. This actually worked out perfect. When I hopped back on the bike the fresh group of riders were forming up in a paceline. I was able to hop on and sit in for a fast couple of 2.8 mile laps. Five or six riders were from the Phieffer College Cycling Team and they definitely had younger legs than me. I managed to hold my own and bailed off the back after two laps. I wanted to get another lap in but had promised my wife I would ride 20 miles while she walked the dogs in the park. Good excuse right? Truth is, I was about exhausted and ready to get home.
Last year we had near perfect riding weather thru most of the winter season. Perfect to me is about 55 to 65 degrees. Anything short of that and my tail is riding indoors. This year we just have not been as fortunate with the weather.
It felt great to squeeze in my last paceline ride of 2008. There is nothing more intent than rolling along in a tight paceline group. It helps keep you focused and also keeps your skills sharp. Not to mention a much better cycling workout. See everyone in 2009.
Jfinn