Mountain biking is like drinking

For me, mountain biking is like drinking. I may start out kind of slow, but as I get faster I get overconfident. When things speed up, I get cocky and become sure that I can handle that next sweeping descent/shot of tequila. I think I can slam that rock garden/pint of beer with no consequences. And then I crash. In short—I don't really know my limits.

Yesterday was one of those days. Rode Pontiac Lake and had an awesome time. That trail totally kicked my ass—literally. I wiped out once and I'm pretty sure it's going to have some bruises. Other than that I didn't crash too hard though—no cuts, no scrapes, just a broken pair of glasses to show for it. Had an awesome time on the climbs (which I'm beginning to think is my forte) and I'm starting to get a lot more comfortable with steep, rocky descents...even if one did happen to bring me down.

Also, I'm beginning to re-evaluate my relationship with rocks. I guess they're not half-bad when they're not loosely nestled in a giant pile. In fact, when they're rooted pretty solidly in the ground they're downright fun.

My favorite climb, very twisty and steep.

[I swear it was a lot steeper than it looks in the picture!]

This was a fast, fun section...

This post would not be complete with documentation of the damage.

[Except not really damage, because the only things I maimed were my glasses and my ego.]

The north part of the park was a little too intense for my current skill set with its crazy switchbacks (I believe this is known as "the chute"?) and the ridiculous climb that follows it, but otherwise I found it to be a great trail with a nice variety in terrain. I definitely surprised myself on the climbs and it was a great change of pace from the flat landscape Lansing offers.

It was a great way to spend [possibly] the last day of outdoor riding this season, because today the snow started flying. I only wish I could've taken another lap around the park. Next time I'm bringing a spare set of specs.

Oh, and in case you were waiting for my decision regarding the last post: Ore to Shore won out.