03 November, 2010

Hmmmm- this looks like it could be damp...

Like the lyrics from Supertramp- "It's Raining Again", this snapshot of the local radar tells the story:



In the middle of the picture is a red dot- that dot is the radar location on Mt Stuart- about 8 km as the crow flies, due south of our place. This weather has been building in all day with just some light drizzle from late morning and then getting a little heavier as the day progressed. Judging from what is feeding in from the Coral Sea, we might have this overnight and well into tomorrow as well.

It might also have a bit of an impact on my ride tomorrow morning. As I have said before, I don't mind getting caught out in the rain but I have a hard time pushing myself out the gate into the rain...(See Rule V at Velominati). That's not to say I won't- I mean it's not like there's any risk of it turning to freezing rain or snow.

One of the other things that becomes noticeable as the seasonal rains arrive is the sudden appearance of the "hairy-backed, knuckle-dragging bogan". As soon as there is a bit of rain on the roads, out they come in great numbers, revving their engines and spinning their tyres on a road surface with considerably less grip than in dry times. I'm not sure if they are of the same species as the rest of humanity but they seem to use these displays of petrol-derived power as either a mating call (like frog in a drainpipe) or a challenge to others who might invade their turf (like a Maori performing a haka).

And they never completely disappear like other migratory animals. You can find signs of their presence all year round in the form of "Bogan Dust". Also known as broken glass, this is found in great amounts along the city's roads- with particular attention apparently given to the designated bike lanes and is found in the greatest amounts on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Quelle surprise!!

Anyhow, I will make an attempt to get out there in the morning- rain or not.

Ride safe

BoaB

5 comments:

TrevorW�� said...

I agree- being caught in the rain is one thing but I have always found it difficult to get on the bike and go out in the rain. I don't mind admitting that I don't really enjoy riding in the rain much-usually resort to the turbo trainer.

Dee said...

could my personal bike mechanic please top up the tires of my fendered sloppy mobile for tomorrows commute. Many thanks ; )

BoaB said...

Yes- will fight my way through the monsoonal downpour and scrape the leeches off to do your bidding. Shall report back when completed. Would you like an email or can I just call across the room to let you know?? =8^)

Dee said...

a blog comment will do. Do I smell toast? Have you noticed my wine glass is empty?

BoaB said...

The tyres are pumped, the toast is not burning and your glass has been replenished. Oh yes and it is still raining.....