Second Day of Earlier Rising

Although it was a very late night last night (I officiated at a wedding), I got up at 4:30 am and was out the door shortly after 5 am for the second day in a row.  My primary goal for this ride was to “ride test” my new fork mount for my light.

Problem: When I use my front Ortlieb bag, as I will on long randonneuring rides, it is hard to get the headlight high enough to project the beam in a place where I can see and feel safe.  The bag casts a shadow out about 10 feet or more in front of the bike.  I want to eliminate that shadow, which either means not using the bag or moving the light.

Solution Attempt: I constructed a fork mount out of PVC plastic pipe fitting, cutting one “T” joint and attaching it to my fork with zip ties.  I placed the fork mount on the left fork within reach as I lean forward.

Analysis: Lights are designed so that their beam is optimized at handlebar height.  Mounting a headlight lower seems to diffuse the light pattern more.  I used my helmet mounted light to give me a little more light in the critical distance ahead.  The fork mounted light did a good job of lighting the roadway, and one possible advantage of the lower mounting is that irregular surfaces are a bit easier to spot.  I’m still not completely convinced that this is where I want the mount or if I will look for another solution.

Cost: Under $2.

We had about 8 riders out this morning and we quickly broke into 3 or more ride groups.  Several wanted a fast ride.  Three of us took an easy spin.  One of us couldn’t decide and lingered between the groups.  It was a pretty morning.  There had been some overnight rain and so the humidity was up, making it feel warmer than the actual temperature.  Plenty of conversation happened about our upcoming 1,000k.  This ride will be unsupported, meaning that we will have to either carry anything we think we will need or will have to buy it enroute.  This complicates the planning.  Our finish hotel choices are pretty narrow.  Evidently there is a soccer tournament in Rochester the weekend of our ride finish.  Most hotels are already booked.

The coffee stop at The Big Bean was good.  I got in 25 miles this morning.

Bible Verses of the Day:

“In your steadfast love you led the people whom you redeemed; you guided them by your strength to your holy abode. (Exodus 15:13 NRSV)

So Peter invited them in and gave them lodging. The next day he got up and went with them, and some of the believers from Joppa accompanied him. (Acts 10:23 NRSV)