Aftermath

• Wouldn't you know it? The path scrapers have been doing a stellar job all winter long, keeping the route reasonably clear for the past couple of months. Last night's flurries left a few inches of snow, and unfortunately today's holiday kept our CDOT friends at home. The lakefront looks the winter wonderland today, bringing out the cross country skiers and snow shoe enthusiasts, but making life pretty difficult for cyclists. Four of us rolled out at noon: three on proper cross bikes (and young legs) and me on the Jack Browns. We headed out steadily, plowing through the powder in single file. But despite the easy pace, I began falling back immediately... my rear wheel fishtailing wildly and spinning out on every slight grade. Upon reaching downtown, I knew things weren't looking great for me when the crew began to pull away. And then a jogger passed me!

  The trio decided to turn back at Grant Park, but I soldiered on, desperately seeking the first cup of 2008 joe. Much later, satiated and caffeinated, I urged the winter bike on... but boy were my wrists sore from the bumpy ride! And then it hit me: I'd filled the Jack Browns earlier in the week, when the path was dry and clear. Two long hisssssses later, with the tires down below 40psi, the bike handled beautifully and comfortably all the way home. It's no fun opening a new year feeling much the moron, but the pleasant return trip made it worth the mild embarrassment.

  All things considered, it was a fine way to open 2008. I transformed my rims into snowy Deep-Vs, enjoyed a sticky pastry, and downed two cups of coffee roasted overnight.

  P.S. If you happen to find a black CRAFT windstopper balaclava on the path, I lost mine this afternoon.