Early hours were not easy as I made a few surprising climbs in order to get back on a main route. Finally, I worked my way close to Harper's Ferry, West (By God) Virginia. Roads get narrow in this small stretch beside the confluence of the two rivers. A few 18 wheelers that OWNED the road were hesitant to share. Traffic increased and I politely move to the right into the inch and a half of space reserved for trash and cyclists.
It was time to cross the bridge into Maryland. This is a NARROW bridge and sharing and traffic flow had not improved. In an unlike Mick move, I stopped! The safe pedestrian route was under construction on both sides of the bridge. I waited. I waited. And I waited until I could not see any vehicle coming from behind. After 55 miles of riding the pickup in my legs was a little slow, but fear is a powerful motivator. I hit the pedals with shocking intensity and checked my mirror. Nothing! I road past the construction workers on the bridge and they cheered and waved. I checked the mirror and now I see a vehicle. The race is on! I'm closing in on the far side of the bridge and I can see the orange barrels; however, it's Friday afternoon, and the vehicle is closing fast. Does he slow down? I think not, so as I reach the end of the bridge I dodge between two barrels and find cover!
Shortly, I see a sign that indicates that I'm on a bike friendly road in Maryland! What a relief. That is until
I got to a sign slightly farther down the same road that read, "Bicycling Prohibited." Today was hot and long (81 miles) and slow (14.1 mph). I'm now safely tucked away in my room at Motel 6 in Frederick, MD and I don't care if they leave the light on.
This is your truckers best friend signing off with the "finger flash" not used on the road!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
I'm sure you didn't let that "cycling prohibited" sign stop you :)
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