So today was my first real chance to ride a bike in three weeks. Schools out, so no commuting and we were in Ireland for two weeks and then the smoke from all the fires.

So anyway, I'm getting ready to go for my first non-commuting ride in many, many months. And where was the first route that came to mind?

My @#$& commute that's it!. After all, it was not too long (25 miles there and back), and perfectly safe. I know exactly how long it should take me almost down to the second.

The thing is that in terms of local recreational rides, the Yolo causeway is the last place anyone want to go. Nobody hardly ever rides it unless they have some actual reason to ride between Davis and Sacramento - usually going to and from work. There are many nicer rides around here than that.

Yet, I had to fight the urge to get on my bike and ride to Sacramento. I finally settled on an 35 mile out and back to Winters.

Does anyone else with a longish commute have to fight the urge to ride it on their recreational rides?