Originally Posted by
alan s
I never understand why so many people on the C&O ride through the mud, when the puddles are so much easier. You'll see sections of churned-up track-filled mud, with a perfectly fine 20' long puddle right next to it. The puddles are only a couple inches deep, and are hard packed underneath. Helps keep the tires clean. Definitely need fenders. Last time I rode it, I had to stop a few times to clean out the mud, but it sure beats being covered head to toe.
I've not ridden the C&O so i can't comment about puddle aversion there. However, lots of saddle time on trails riding the mountain bike and Puddle aversion is definitely in play. Why? Riding anywhere where you can't see the surface is high risk. Is the surface rutted? is there a natural obstruction, like a tree branch or large rock under the surface? A man made hazard like a piece of angle iron? And as all commuters can tell you, puddles are where the broken glass accumulates. Not to mention, those unfamiliar with the trail have no idea how deep the puddle is or how firm the surface is. So avoiding the puddle even to ride through mud is kinda the devil you know Vs the one you don't.