First Tracks

I like riding in the snow, at least on the first day of snowfall.  After a few days in an urban area snow can take on a decidedly disgusting feel, but when snow is bright white and largely undisturbed it really appeals to me.  I snapped this shot on the way to work yesterday.

While I can't be 100% sure, it appears as if I was the first rider of the day heading west.  Three or four tracks appear to be headed in the other direction, but perhaps riders chose the other side of path for some odd reason. The accumulation was just right for normal tires. I was riding on 700 x 35 tires and had no issues, but a few riders on skinny tires I saw seemed to be having a sketchy time making smooth progress. 

I did find that riding in the undisturbed snow was smoother than following other tracks.  Logically it would seem that following where someone else has gone would make for a smoother ride, but this is not always the case because following in the exact path is difficult as seen by how curvy the tracks are. 

Comments

[Chuck]

Matt, I understand completely. It is like a completely different world to ride in. Interesting contrast in sights, sounds and sensations. The landscapes light and dark tones. Sounds deadened by and the ride cushioned by the soft snow. And then there are the questions from cage drivers wondering how you do it. Seems people find you more approachable in the wintery conditions.

[Ariel]

Beautiful

[Ann]

I tried to ride in the winter 3-4 years ago, but it felt dangerous due to ice and slipping. Fast forward: 2 weeks ago my ancient mini van was rear ended and is now at the collision shop. I have a job approx 1.5 miles from home. Instead of walking I tried a bike that I had picked from a neighbors trash pile for donation to the local community bike co-op. It's actually a pretty nice Schwinn with mountain tires on. Wow! No real slipping with those fat tires. I tried my own ride today, a little more skill needed as the tires are road. I may just keep riding for good now, it was wonderful to be back outside rolling along.