The "O" Word
Conservative by Nature, Christian by Choice
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Complacency Will Kill You

September 14th, 2015 . by Cary

Well, it will try, anyway. I’ve been riding a motorcycle for my commute since June. In the early morning hours, here in Phoenix, it is usually hot and dry. Hot enough to make you not wear a jacket while riding a bike. Or gloves. And really, who wants to wear heavy boots all day in an office? Sneakers it is …

It rained last night, a long, soaking rain that we have needed for some time. This morning was warm, but not hot; but very humid. The breeze as I was riding was very enjoyable.

My commute takes me east on Bethany Home Road, and I turn southeast onto Grand Ave. The light was red at Grand, so the turn lane started out from a dead stop. The three vehicles ahead of me made the turn – and stopped. I was into the turn when there was nowhere to go. The pavement, it turns out, was a little damp right there. I have good brakes.

I also now have a scratched up engine guard, some scratches on my helmet, minor scrapes on my right knee and right elbow, and a twisted right ankle. The bike landed on my right foot, the saddlebag kept it at an odd angle. I used my left foot to push the bike up enough to free my right ankle. A guy appeared, asking if I was OK – turns out he was the reason everyone stopped; he was crossing Grand in the crosswalk with the light. He picked up my bike, and pushed it over to the side while I attempted to stand up. My ankle doesn’t seem to be able to take full weight right now; but it’s not broken. I’ll see what a little ice will do for it.

I will also be wearing my riding gear from now on, regardless of weather. Lesson re-learned. (I had gone down a long time ago, low side, and didn’t come out of that one nearly as well off as I did this time.)

Tomorrow morning’s commute will feature yours truly wearing his ballistic jacket, road gloves, and boots. The sneakers will be in the side bag, for use in the office. If I had full leathers, I would wear that, and change once I got to the office.

All The Gear, All The Time.

Chat ya later…

cary

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