I did not participate in the late ride in Chicago, but I was unpleasantly introduced to it when I left out for my 5am morning ride. I jumped onto the bike path at Grand heading south, forgetting that the late ride was happening. Well, about a block into it, suddenly I became aware of all these people on bikes, and I remembered that the late ride was going on. Far from wanting to continue with them, I really wanted to escape the riders as soon as possible, since they were going so slowly that I knew I'd never be able to do a good timed ride, but I was stuck once the bikes got back on the path at 150 north. Then some idiots see me on my bike and start hissing and screaming "Cheater, cheater!" at me. Turns out, they didn't bother to ask me what was up, just assumed that I had crashed the ride and was now on my way to Buckingham fountain for breakfast with them. I didn't appreciate the catcalls, and seriously, I found the riders annoying. I seriously don't equate that group of riders with every late rider, but what a bunch of inconsiderate do-gooders. Bleah.

I did see the pictures on television, though, and it did look like people had fun. It still doesn't inspire me to participate. I guess it's not my thing. I will do my best to avoid them at all costs next year.

Koffee