John
has his Worst Bike Wreck ever
written by John on July 30, 2008
I have been greatly enjoying riding my bike this
spring and summer in
Minnesota. I think I enjoyed City Creek Canyon in Salt Lake City a
little more, but I'm not there now. I've been on rides ranging from 10
to 35 miles, mostly before breakfast in the cool of the mornings. On
Saturday, July 19th, I was on a nice ride and had just turned around at
the north end of the ride, having gone 23 miles at this point, being
six miles from home. As I was getting back on the highway, a biker on a
fancy bike went by, so I caught up to him to draft for a while. He was
familiar with riding with drafters, because he pointed out for me a
bump in the road, a thing of etiquette for this situation. However, for
whatever reason, he didn't point out to me a large chunk of asphalt he
went by. I didn't see it and must have hit it on the right side because
my front wheel went out from under me and landed me on my left
shoulder, hip, forearm and knee before I knew what hit me. It was not a
fun experience! The guy in front came back to see if I was okay, and I
thought I would be able to get home. I made it home okay and proceeded
to get Jill's help on my wounds. She asked Julie to come help too.
Julie had a hard time with all the red skin. You can see her in the
picture attempting to calm herself lying on the bed. Beside the obvious
wounds visible here, I got pretty serious bruises on my shoulder and
ribs. Now, a week and a half later, things are improving greatly. My
home teacher's blessing worked! Since the accident I have ridden 100
miles or so and have not fallen again, fortunately.