I’ve had my first fall with the new hybrid already; and it wasn’t about autumn foliage, either.

It happened on the way home from the salvage store. When it’s time to ride up the access road to the top of the levee, I shift to my granny gear. Unfortunately, I’m not used to my new bicycle’s shifting yet; and that’s how the problem came about.

When I had twist-grip shifting, I had to turn the shifter towards me for lower gears. These new thumb-lever shifter work differently.  I  have two levers; and for lower gears, I have to push one of those levers away from me. I forgot that; and inadvertently put the bike on the biggest ring.

Halfway up the access road, I finally noticed that on the gear indicator. The bike had become very hard to pedal; and I decided to dismount and walk. When I got off, the weight of the pannier pulled the bike over; and pushed me down with it. My left knee got a nasty scrape as a result. I guess every new bicycle comes with a learning curve; and all I can do is learn. But it was great to be able to ride to the salvage store again.

Speaking of first fall, maybe we can expect some real Autumn weather in a few more weeks. Maybe. I remember once we got a cool front on October 6; but that was many years ago. However, a few mornings with temperatures in the mid-70s gives me hope.

My knee feels sore from getting bashed this morning; so I might do a shorter ride tomorrow. I’ll see how things are in the morning. It looks like we’ll have good riding weather!