Ride Diary

Polar Bear Run

I went on the Potomac Area Road Riders Club annual Polar Bear Run today. There were probably between 70 and 80 riders, although some didn't stick it out for the entire circuit. I was rider #54 and even won a door prize: a Rand McNally TripMaker CD. That will come in handy planning trips this summer.

Harley full dressers and Gold Wings were heavily represented, along with several Kawasaki Concours, two Nighthawks, a Yamaha GTS, FJ1200 and a John Deere Ninja 250 that must be seen to be believed. We met for brunch at the Sign of the Whale in Falls Church and then did an 80-mile loop through suburban and still largely rural parts of Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun Counties of Northern Virginia. Temperatures hovered in the mid-thirties so the electric clothing got a good workout. A great ride and hopefully the harbinger of more excellent riding in 2001.

Closing the books on 2000, I have accumulated about 11,000 miles since 1/1/2000 after a slow start. Having like minded folks to ride with helps and I've managed to find several good riding companions. (If you're reading this, you know who you are.)