By one count, it was a force of 18 cyclists who showed up today for the 2008 Tour de Solstice. Juan Salazar took photos and they’re posted here: Tour de Solstice.

The streets had quite a bit of snow on them, but we could find pavement most of the way for secure riding. The worst of it was in the parking area around the High School, where the ruts left by cars and other bikes made it difficult for those of us with not-so-good mtb skills to stay upright.

Once on Cayuga Street, it was a pleasant ride for the most part. Some snow was left between the tire tracks, but we were able to ride easily in the tracks — since there was virtually no automobile traffic, we could ride two-abreast. Juan even was able to photograph the improbable procession while kneeling in the middle of the street.

At Gimme! everyone pulled over just to regroup and have some conversation with fellow riders. I was surprised to recognize more people — the cold-weather gear really transforms people’s appearance! After a few participants had had coffee and all of us were beginning to get a bit chilly, we got back on the road heading south.

Getting closer to downtown, the street was also clearer and we had the street to ourselves for the ride down Cayuga Street to Green Street. Crossing State, we got on Seneca Street and were at College Town Bagels for our second stop of the ride.

At CTB, everyone went inside for some food, drink, or at least conversation. I had a chance to catch up with Steve Powell, the Finger Lakes Cycling Club’s overnight touring guru –  we’re going to have an “open house” on January 10 to talk about next season’s trips (stand by for details!). It was noon before the gathering broke up and everyone headed out for home.

Special thanks go to Wayne Gottlieb and Ron Acera for brainstorming this event and helping it come to such a pleasant fruition. And thanks, too, to Jennifer Dotson and Will Burbank for joining us as not only good company but also representatives of our local governments.

I think all of us made a note to join in the Tour de Solstice in 2009 (Sunday, December 20).

Andrejs
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