Finally

[the Ferret]

On the evening of Dec 30, we got our first major snow. It came a little earlier than normal and it wasn't crushing, less than 2 inches, but the private road I live on which is curvy and dippy doesn't get cleared well. They salt the entrance and a couple of the curves. The cars driving in and out on the snow crush it and it freezes to ice underneath, especially when the temperature like we have been having don't allow for melt. Plus there are two long sections with giant pine trees which block the morning sun from getting to the road. So even though the main public roads get salted and plowed and are ok to ride, I end up getting stuck for days waiting for a track to open up I can ride on to get out to the main roads.

Everyday this week I have taken the truck and driven out to the main roads. Then my wife and I discuss whether it would be safe for me to try and escape. New Years Day..nope. Jan 2 nope. Jan 3 nope Jan 4 nope but it's getting close. We can see dry tracks developing. My wife thought I could get out IF no cars came the other way forcing me off the track in the middle of the road, or no deer crossed in front of me causing me to swerve off that line. Too risky.

This morning we went out and it looked like there were enough clear tracks that I would have options if necessary, so about 2:00 I suited up, pushed the ST out and fired it up, turning the heated grips on 50% and plugged in my heated jacket liner at about 75% (it was 16 degrees out). Once the bike hit 2 bars on the heat gauge, I snicked her into gear and headed up the drive, turning left at the top. No cars came and no deer ran out and I made it out to the main road with no drama, which was clear and dry. About an hour later I arrived back home, safe and sound with a doggone big smile. It felt so good to ride! Anyhow, first day and first 35 miles of the year in!

[Cormanus]

You’re a very committed rider, Ferret. Congratulations on the first ride for 2018.

It sounds like some parts of the US are doing it really tough at the moment. Hope,everyone’s OK.

[emptysea]

Very nice... Glad you were able to get out and get back in.

[the Ferret]

Going down to -1 tonight, but tomorrow mrs and I are driving down to Berea for lunch and to check out a couple hotels to try and get us a deal on rooms for the rally. Might not get back in time to ride tomorrow.

Oh the sacrifices I make lol

[rookallures_imp]

Nice text, Ferret. Unfortunately I'm still waiting for the first ride of the year... Got the flu yesterday and the rain doesn't stop falling At least, I just have snow in the north...
Happy New Year to you all, by the way.

You’re a very committed rider, Ferret. Congratulations on the first ride for 2018.

It sounds like some parts of the US are doing it really tough at the moment. Hope,everyone’s OK.

Indeed! It's snowing even in Florida.

[Aussieflyer]

Similar problem here too Ferret, i.e. the weather is no good for riding ... it's 42C (~108F) with a 40km/h average wind speed. I'm gonna wait 'til tomorrow when it cools down to 21C (~70F) - Melbourne weather is known for how variable it is, as we often say "if you don't like the weather just wait 10 minutes". Good luck with the snow and ice in your neck of the woods.

[the Ferret]

Ha Aussieflyer..they say the exact same thing here in Ohio USA

uunfortunately we are on a cold streak right now. Today was the 12th day in a row the temp never got above freezing. Tomorrow will be day 13. Sunday it is supposed to warm up a bit. Not 70 though lol

[egleaves_imp]

Ha Aussieflyer..they say the exact same thing here in Ohio USA

uunfortunately we are on a cold streak right now. Today was the 12th day in a row the temp never got above freezing. Tomorrow will be day 13. Sunday it is supposed to warm up a bit. Not 70 though lol

That right there was a huge influence in my decision to leave Ohio and return to California!

[use2b_imp]

very happy you got a short fix for our addiction but wow that sounds like so much work , but that ST could be the the boss with another option

[the Ferret]