The weather forecast for last Thursday was rather uncertain, with no clear indication of whether or not it would rain.
Well, I figured if I got rained on, so be it, and headed out for a ride with a light heart.
With GIRLS RIDEALIVE coming up next weekend, I joined a group of girls who were eager to get some miles in, and we set our sights on the formidable Mt. Mikuni in Seto.
The sun, which usually beats down and drains our energy, was covered by clouds, making for a very comfortable climate to ride in. Just as I was thinking this was shaping up to be a great ride, it started to pour with rain shortly after we began our climb.
Even then, we didn't stop pedaling and slowly pushed forward, but when it felt like it would be too tough to continue if the rain kept up like this, we took shelter under some trees for a while.
As the sky grew slightly brighter and the rain turned to a drizzle, we started pedaling again and all reached the summit together. To be honest, when we were taking shelter in that downpour, I thought we might have to turn back, but I had underestimated the power of these girls. Because we spent time taking shelter and such, that was as far as we went on this day's ride.
By the time we headed back, the rain had stopped completely, and the air felt heavy and humid, making me almost miss the rain.
Well, I suppose you just have to accept these sudden downpours and the heavy, humid air as part of the thrill of riding in a Japanese summer.
By the way, for this ride, I was wearing the Micheline Jersey from Cafe du Cycliste that I bought last year. It’s an incredibly thin cycling jersey that’s as light as a base layer, to the point where I’d almost forget I was wearing it if I didn't have gear in the back pockets. It’s more comfortable than any other jersey I own and is indispensable for mid-summer rides. Although new patterns and colors arrived this season, all that’s left is the L size in the same color I have. If anyone wears this size, I highly recommend it. We also have one last piece of the women's version with a different design, so be sure to check that out as well.
SimWorks staff member Gishi-kun was also wearing a Cafe du Cycliste jersey that day. The Fleurette Jersey, with its chic look adorned with subtle, small dots, is a lightweight cycling jersey perfect for summer rides, following in the footsteps of the Micheline Jersey I wear. It's a piece I look forward to each season to see what colors are released. There is also a women's version available in the same design. While it offers the excellent functionality and silhouette you'd expect from a cycling jersey, it feels as casual and easy to slip on as a polo shirt.
It’s been dry and pleasant in the mornings and evenings for the past few days, but I hear the muggy heat is expected to return early next week. It seems there are still plenty of days left where short-sleeve jerseys will be useful. The sale only has half a day left. It’s a short amount of time, but why not take a look?
