Biking the Doldrums

No I'm not talking about the equatorial region that struck dread and sometimes insanity into the hearts of sailors for hundreds of years, although the effect can be the same. I'm talking about the doldrums of February and March, a time when biking is scarce and the  good snow for skiing or snowshoeing is quickly melting. 

Lets get something out of the way right now, over the years we have become what some might consider "snow snobs". If it is not deep, light and refreshed frequently we don't like it. This year we have only strapped on the snowshoes and skis once.  Don't get me wrong, normally we have been snowshoeing and skiing, for 2-3 months now, but this year has been pathetic. 

In other years mid February rolls around and the excitement of snowshoeing has worn off, but the trails, even the lower ones,  are still snow covered, or too muddy for any real riding. (Fat tires not included, having not fallen for that 'trend'  yet). Leaving one or even two dreaded months of waiting. 

This year has been different, there is some lousy snow high in the mountains, but surprisingly some of the lower trails are open, and the afternoon temperatures hover around 55-65 degrees allowing for some afterwork and Saturday rides.

It began a few weeks ago when I noticed that my normal winter starved Strava feed began filling up with rides,  from riders who don't own fat bikes. Some were on roads,  others on dirt. I decided it was time to try. 

Surprisingly the trail was mostly dry,  even dusty in places.  But it was one of those evenings when it is just good to be on a bike with nice temperatures and nicer trails.   It gave me a glimpse of another good year of riding and exploring one trail at a time. 

I couldn't help but thinking of those sailors who sat for weeks or even months waiting for wind.  Sure the comparison is slim. We have food and water and are not likely to die.   But,  for those who really love the outdoors and specifically putting foot to pedal,  the insanity can be the same.