I could tell I was rusty!

[Stig / Major Tom]

I'm down to a ride a month lately - and at 5:30AM this morning I was reminded that I haven't been riding as much lately.
Changing thru 3 lanes - looking over my L shoulder - I came too close to a car in the center lane as I overtook it.
Nothing drastic - but I hadn't noticed he was slowing.
In traffic one has to check front, side and rear - yes?!
I struggle a little with my left mirror as I'm now nearly blind in my left eye....requires a full head turn to bring my R eye to the L mirror. Side-eye glance to my L mirror no longer possible.

That is 2 times in the last two rides. Wobbled nearly into a curb when turning hard right the last time.

Lessons learned.
Stig

[Iahawk]

sometimes we all need to slow down the ride a bit to get back in the groove. I'm sure it's been at least 5 weeks since I've ridden. Still waiting for our little warm up to melt the snow (happening today) so I can get in a ride around Christmas. Stay safe!

[Neil955i]

Evey day's a school day Stig!  We all need to recognise our skill sets / abilities alter subtly as we age / physically deteriorate and we need to adjust the riding style to suit I guess.  Life is all about compromises and I'll make whatever concessions I need to carry on riding as long as I'm able. It's true what Hawk says, with a long layoff you need to start slow and build up to things that came instinctively before the break.  Too many Summer only riders forget this and jump back on in the Spring expecting to be back "in the groove" from mile one.  That way lies disaster.

Take it easy and enjoy.  Everything comes to he who waits!