I had class every Thursday evening last year, and another this fall, about which I was not pleased. We didn’t have class this evening, so I knew where I was headed.

I broke out for the trails early, needing to leave a hectic day behind. My legs felt stale, not inclined to come around, fuzzy, just like the rest of me had that afternoon. But after riding for 90 minutes by myself and the first 30 with the group, they opened up with alacrity and I attacked every climb and descent with glee, spurred on by having Bill, Aaron, and Mike to chase (and run from).

It was a gorgeous evening. Downright hot riding pavement to the trailhead, and almost arm warmer cool in the shadiest parts of the last descents. I’m enjoying having the Karate Monkey back in service immensely, it is better suited to Missoula riding than the Leviathan. I also have a new Rampage front tire, and I may be the last rider in 29erdom to find out just how carve-y this tire can help make your bike. It does wonders in the kitty litter on hardpack of Turkey Trail.

Afterwards we all turned on the lights and blasted downhill, on trail and pavement, towards town. I was very glad to have the dingle (34:16 and 30:20) setup at my disposal. We stopped at Rattlesnake Gardens for food and beer, than on the Big Dipper for Cold Smoke (Scotch Ale) flavored ice cream. The town gear let me just keep Bill and Mike in sight as they big ringed down Rattlesnake Drive at 30+ mph (clocked by Larry passing in his truck).

The Thursday crew is an awesome polyglot group of riders. Everyone likes riding and enjoying life, and all else comes along by the by. Tonight may have been the last of the Thursday rides I get to do, before class takes over or darkness makes staring at 6 a limiting affair. I’m fortunate that I was able to show up for such a good one.

It makes going to class for eight hours tomorrow seem not just doable, but worthy of anticipation.

But first; sleep.