Friday Night MicroAdventure

Tonight I decided to delay the consumption of beer slightly and go for a night ride. A proper off road night ride with lights and all. I haven't done that since sometime last March back in Japan when it was rather colder and I was riding through snow sparkling like diamond dust in my lights.*Warning! Severe bike geek talk ahead*

There was no snow tonight, and quite a bit of mud, but still it was a lot of fun. I like night riding for the focus it brings. One is so much more "in the moment" as all that is seen are the immediate surroundings - the few meters of trail ahead, and a vague hint of trees and whatnot in the peripheral. No distractions. Eyes stay looking where they need to be looking.

I also like singlespeed bikes; because they are simple and quiet they also allow for an uncluttered mind and a high degree of focus on the ride.

Add the two together, and when the mind and body are in the zone, something special happens. Tonight flow was there - it was effortless to cruise through the single track, to weave and wind between the trees. The bike and I were one; no longer conscious of using some mechanical contraption, it was an extension of my body, controlled subconsciously and freeing me to fly. I only rode for an hour, which is not long by any cyclists' standards, but as time stood still for me in that moment of flow, it was more than enough. Can't wait to do it again.

Yes.

Now it is time for beer - which also flows. The circle is complete.