The last time I cycled, 23 days ago, it was around 30c, with cloudless blue skies and I was wearing summer cycling gear.
This morning, as I left the house, it was just 6c, overcast and I had to wear my full winter cycling ensemble.
Autumn has certainly arrived in this part of the world and there are warnings of a long, cold, winter.
I headed north from Heerlen, following the river Wurm, through the German town of Geilenkirchen, intending to make a loop to the east before heading home.
Making good progress, after such a long layoff from cycling, I soon arrived at a path closure near the town of Suggerath.
Normally I would ask my GPS app (RideWith GPS) to re-calculate the route home.
Today, however, I decided to simply turn left, cross the Wurm and follow the front wheel home.
This is an area I have cycled through many times so I had a fair idea of the way home, without the need for GPS or maps, and it added an element of adventure to this autumn morning.
The sun made an occasional appearance and I was also treated to a light rain shower for the last 5 km of the ride.
It’s certainly great to be out on two wheels again, and I’m satisfied that my fitness levels have not dropped so much over the past 3 weeks.
