The worst riding conditions make the best riders.

Recently I got caught in the rain at the end of a long day.  I rode from California to Spearfish, South Dakota, and arrived as the shadows were growing long.

I could see thunderstorms ahead, and sweated out my gas situation until I finally had a chance to fill up.  At the gas station, I heard that not only was there heavy rain, but hail as well.

Newly confident with a full tank, I headed into the storms.  First the bugs were washed from the bike, then I got soaked, then that clammy feeling of wet, cold leather.

Soon I was concentrating on making time on the windy roads of Spearfish Canyon, with some mud thrown in where the road was being worked on.  I don't like riding when it is dark, and the rain made it worse. However, I have to admit that I felt really good about the ride almost the second I finished that part of the trip.  While I would never choose to ride in these conditions, it was the kind of thing that can't help but make you a better rider.

From now on, when you find yourself weather challenged, go for it with gusto.  Wet conditions force you to be smooth.