Autumn riding

Kitzsteinhorn from the far side of the Zeller See

5^oC. Feels even colder. Gloves, beany over the ears, over-the-knee shorts. Setting off on a crisp morning, cranking up the speed to get warm. Chill wind gnawing at the cheeks. Autumn riding gets you going.

Classic autumn picnic spot beside the Pillersee

As the day warms so do the extremities – or is it just the blood racing up and down? Ease up a little. Enjoy the view. Mountains flaunting their craggy cliffs in the crystal air. Sugar-coated tops glisten against the bright blue sky. Dark green evergreens on the flanks are spiked with gold flashes as the intermingled broadleaf trees turn.

As the cycling season draws to a close and the snows gather in the distance ready to close the bike routes altogether, there is an urgency in the air. Just let me get a few more rides in. Almost any weather will do.

But it is becoming less likely we will manage much more – last year’s totals remain unchallenged. We’ve had some great runs. Thoughts begin to turn to winter sports…and where we will ride to next year.

At the end of the ride, it is still chilly but we are warm, content, feeling the benefit of those endorphins that tell you, it’s great to ride out on a cold, autumn morning.

Coffee

Back home. Espresso Exclusive beans roasted and blended by Teekorb. Zell am See. Dark and bold.

You said it!

Nothing compares to the simple pleasures of a bike ride - John F. Kennedy