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Monday Java Ride, 5 November 2001
by Peter Kellner

So, it's Monday, no, not the first work day of the
week, but because of my "extended" holiday, it's time
for the Java Bike Ride up foothill expressway like a
bat out of hell, a quick (45 minute) stop at the
coffee shop, then a leasurely ride back.  (with 30 of
my closest friends)

So, today, I'm riding second from the front of the
pack when "whooosh" out of no wheres come Mr. bike
racer.  Not only does he pass me and my buddies who
are going about 25mph, but passes us like we are
standing still.  We meet up at the next stop light,
and somehow, out of my mouth comes: "Hey, do you mind
if I try to hang on?"  (code for: "I'd like to ride 6
inches from your back tire in your wind shadow and I'd
prefer you not slam on your brakes").  Mr. Bike says:
"Sure, no problem".  The light turns green, he takes
off...  he's gone, fun over I think... but no!  he
turns his head to make sure I caught on, realized I
did not, so he gracefully waits.  I catch up, then...
the ride begins.  He did not stop accelerating until
we were both going 36 mph!  Let me tell you!  36mph on
the flats, 6 inches behind someone, that is an
adrenaline rush!  Less than 2 minutes later, I thanked
him, and off he went.

Hoping this is not a once in a life time experience,
and wishing I was 20 again...

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