Riding in darkness is nothing new to me. I don’t remember exactly when I took to pre-dawn rides; but it’s been years now.

Last night’s forecast for dense fog was spot-on; and between fog and the dark, I had to ride more slowly than I like. Eventually I had to remove my glasses so I could see! But maybe I needed a slower, shorter ride. Last week I rode more than usual; and my legs have felt tired much of this week.

Of course bicycling in darkness means you have to take some precautions: good lights; reflective clothing; and extra caution until you adjust to such conditions. There are still times when shadows play tricks on me; and I have to stay alert at all times.

Riding on top of the levee in the dark; and riding to and from a store in the dark, are two very different things. One of the local main roads runs parallel to the levee; and of course there are vehicles with bright headlights down there. But at least they aren’t at eye level.

Running errands by bicycle in the dark means that an approaching vehicle’s lights are right in my face. Maybe my 500-lumen headlight has the same effect of the driver, though; so can we call it 50/50?

How about personal safety when riding in darkness? I have some apprehensions about it; but if I want to ride, I just have to do it. A riding companion wouldn’t hurt; and might even help me with my attempts to improve my pace! They say, if you want to get faster, ride with folks whose cruising pace is little faster than yours.

More fog is in the forecast. I’m glad I won’t have to ride in the dark tomorrow morning.