The utility cover with the blue paint splotch on the right side of the photo is what got me I had a good long run on the bike without a crash, but unfortunately my luck ran out last weekend after decideding to add a detour up into the Emerald Hills neighborhood — all hills and mostly narrow single lane roads that I’m only casually familiar with. I had made it through the worst of the uphill part (around 1000 ft of elevation) and was starting to descend, using a mix of memory and instinct to navigate, when I caught glimpse of a small sunken utility cover party obscured by shadows cast from overhead trees. I was too close to veer around and hit it head on — and promptly found myself flying head over heels over my bike towards, and then sliding across the pavement. Ow. I landed fairly hard, my bike then crashing on top of me — right in time for a large black SUV to come around the corner in front of me, likely catching my less than graceful landing. The driver quickly stopped and got out to check on me (appreciated to say the least), and proceeded to help get me up and confirm I was in one piece. I was, amazingly. A little scraped up, definitely sore, but seemingly nothing broken. Yes, I was wearing a helmet. Always. After a few minutes, I gave the driver the all-clear so they could be on their way. I gave myself another 10 or 15 minutes on the side of the road, checking for damage to my bike (none, phew) and then collected myself and very slowly and cautiously proceeded the rest of the way home. I’ve spent the week limping a bit and not sleeping particularly well due to lingering soreness from that landing. I didn’t break anything, but suspect I probably have a small hairline fracture on my left side given the lingering soreness. But I am feeling considerably better a week later and will likely be back on the whip tomorrow, moving a bit slower — and definitely skipping any detours. Reply via e-mail or follow me at @scottboms@typo.social on Mastodon.