I had a minor problem with my air compressor valve connector as when I went to check the air, both tires were down a few pounds. I have a portable unit which is fast and convenient but I had a hard time getting the connecter fitted and I was going backwards. The gauge registered 29 psi but it was letting more air out than I was trying to force in. Soon I had 17 psi and the pressure was dropping fast. I must have fiddled for 15 minutes and finally I got my tires up to the correct pressure; front 33 psi, rear 36 psi
With the low sun angle I had a hard time trying to see where I was going. The sun is nearly horizontal with my horizon and shining right into my eyes. I have learned to go into defensive mode. I go slower and find another car to follow. I worry more about those aggressive left turners which are difficult to see, so I figured a car in front would be a good barrier
In a couple more weeks the sun will rise earlier and will eliminate this problem. I have the same situation on Lougheed highway where the sun appears rise, right out of the road, and it is hard to see the other traffic. I worry about the oncoming traffic with the lack of lane barriers
I eventually arrive at work and park next to another co-worker's Honda Shadow
When I get to work everyone is wondering what happened to me ! I usually arrive at 7:30a like clockwork but this morning I was fiddling around trying to pump air in my tires which made me arrive at work later than normal. I am not late as I allow for this extra half hour buffer, just later than my usual time but it felt nice to be missed
today I was last to leave the office. Every one has already gone but I have to check everything, lock the doors, fill the printers with paper, check the lights and secure the building for the weekend. It actually feels nice to go home with the sun still shining, rather than in the dark.
I eventually find my way home. Great weather is forecast for this weekend
and I can't wait . . .
Lucky you, we had rain today and will be raining tomorrow. I can't believe, the whole week was beautiful and starting Monday will be sunny again.
ReplyDeleteGeorge:
DeleteWe had the same scenario a few years ago with rain every weekend for weeks, while the workdays were sunny and clear. Hope the cycle changes for you soon
It was a great day to be out again, the commute plus bonus time on the road. And the weekend isn't over yet, time to dip a toe into the ocean.
ReplyDeleteBTW I still like your orange jacket. My favorite colour!
Sonja:
DeleteIt was a great day but without a riding buddy, I am less energetic so I ride to take photos, or just relax somewhere and enjoy my surroundings. My Hi-Viz Orange is more orange than what the photos show. It is blinding in the sunshine.
It has been lovely the last few days to see sun and feel warmth. I have commuted by car for the last 2 weeks and missed my beautiful Scarlet. I am longing for the warmth & light of summer and am all too happy to kick old man Winter to the curb. I always find March mornings chillier than any December morning. I agree with Sonja, I like the orange jacket, very snazzy. I hope your morning commutes get warmer and less frosty.
ReplyDeleteDar:
DeleteI know what you mean about the 4 wheel commute, but I don't take chances with the frost in the mornings. It is getting better every week. It went to 16°c yesterday and didn't get dark until after 7:45pm
Looking good Bob...may your summer be long and exciting!
ReplyDeleteRoger:
DeleteNo long ago we were envious of your impending summer as we were slipping into winter. Now the tables have turned. Can't wait to turn dreams & plans into action
"fast and convenient..." the understated master of irony!
ReplyDeleteMr Conchscooter:
DeleteOne day we will experience the Keys "first Hand". I am sure you are on pins and needles just waiting for that day.
Bob...we recently went thru the sun in the eyes phase during one's commute and yeah, not being able to see is bad. Now make it that its the eastbound cagers who can't see you due to the sun and it gets scary.
ReplyDeleteAs you know, if one is throwing a long shadow ahead of one's motorcycle, that means drivers coming toward you are heading into the sun....voila, you've become more invisible than usual!
I hope you're still keeping some good following distance from the cager you're using as protection from left turning cagers at intersections....if you follow too close, he'll mask your presence...or are using the cager as flank protection?
Nice sunrise pic
Dom
Redleg's Rides
Colorado Motorcycle Travel Examiner
Dom:
DeleteI don't follow too close as I need to be separated from the car ahead to be more visible, and I try to keep as left, as possible. I have to travel East in the mornings and in early spring the sun is right at road level. It's bad enough to keep the trunk in sight as you are following "blind"
Glad you got out for a ride Bob. Never as much fun with the sun glaring in your eyes but time will remedy that for you in the morning. Black electrical tape strategically placed on your visor helps cut down on the problem. Troubadour placed some on mine and it helps. It is a bit awkward though.
ReplyDeleteGreat pictures of the sun I like how you have both you and your bike in them.
Trobairitz:
DeleteI tried black electricians' tape but it didn't stick very well. I have to remember to try Duct tape next time. I actually have a built-in sliding dark visor which I forgot to deploy. It's been so long since the sun came out
im with dom. while reading this my head instantly flashed to safe following distance and lighting. i was hit (2007, i was the passenger) because the driver i was with was following a truck to closely which concealed our presence in the lane, and had a left turner completely t-bone us.
ReplyDeletethanks for the email bob. glad you're getting some wind my friend!
Ms M:
Deletesorry about the flashbacks and your mishap. That's the problem when you are not in control. You have to put your fate into the hands of another, experienced or not. Thank goodness you are OKay.
The riding season has almost begun! Not that I want anything bad to happen, sometimes it is good to encounter this situations to remind us of obstacles, yet again. Keeps us on our toes, and our brains fresh and working.
ReplyDeleteSteel CupCake:
DeleteEvery year, same old thing. Sunrise at road level and riding blind so I have developed some countermeasures. I have the same problem going home in the late summer as I have to ride into the setting sun. (westbound). I'm not sure about the "brains fresh and working" , but I like the toe part