Helmets are good

All cyclists crash... that is inevitable. Which is why I believe in always wearing a helmet. Myself, I was waiting for it to happen. I didn't count the two times I ended up horizontal before. The first time was the first day I rode my new road bike, back in October of 2004. I was learning to use "clipless" pedals. Clipless is a funny name since you actually clip in and out. Anyway, I came to a stop, unclipped my right foot, and fell over to the left. No biggie. The second time was at the Silver Comet, after I switched from one pedal and cleat system to another. Once again, came up to an intersection, slowed, unclipped my right, fell over to the left. Not "real" crashes. I think my c.g. may be a little off to the lleft.

Well, now I can no longer say that I am dreading the day that I will crash. That day was today. I was following Will out to one of his rides. The weather was bad, my left hip flexor was bothering me, and I was having trouble shifting. About 1/2 mile away from the apartment it started storming and pouring rain, the kind that hurts when it hits you. I was happy to be turning into the apartment complex, then the next thing I am horizontal and right in the way of incoming traffic.

I always thought my first "real" crash would involve other people. This one can be attributed to the extremely slick pavement at the complex and the torrential downpour. And the fact that my new bike makes me more prone to "oh shit" moments than the previous one. I guess there is a downside to the handling and confidence I get with my "new" wheels.

At least it didn't hurt... that badly. The slick pavements means I only got a few scrapes instead of a lots of road rash. And a few bruises.

Now I'll reset my counter... Will says he crashes every 4000 miles, the last one being a few weeks ago, but through no fault of his own. Me, this one happened after 2200 miles... let's hope the next doesn't come sooner.

Blogged with Flock