The Chainlink

Anyone else wipe out on the LFP this morning?

I only ask because as I stood up, collected myself and click-clacked across the ice to the high-side of the path to do a damage assessment, there were three other cyclists there doing the same thing.

I have to rate the Oak Street Corner Ice Capades as one of my favorite crash sites. I'd be hypocritical if I didn't, since I've gone back to enjoy two additional crashes after my first in 2003. It's simply sublime... it draws you in with the promise of safe passage, but then... as you round the corner... the suspense builds.... and SURPRISE! You are suddenly greeted with a radiant sheet of pristine glazed ice extending from the retaining wall straight into glorious Lake Michigan! Surely, it is the potential for sliding into a frozen, watery grave that gives this particular crash its high sense of drama and keeps me coming back for more. Five stars!

Views: 46

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Chi Tour de Cure on November 18, 2008 at 3:34pm
Hey, this is the Chainlink! The "I love the bus" forum is down the hall to the right.

Now on my play list: Studded CX tires







EJ said:
Ethans says: " WALK your bike!"

Or, if black ice is present (or may be present cos you can't really see it), use our awesome transit system.
Permalink Reply by Stewski on November 18, 2008 at 5:50pm
Wouldn't it be nice if that curve was actually built up so the water wasn't able to just roll up over the side and deposit the micro-sheen of icy death? I used to live in Streeterville and is was perilous even for joggers. I once came within about a foot of the edge after handplanting during a late night January jog.
Permalink Reply by B on November 18, 2008 at 5:51pm
Eric maybe this instead...could also come in handy oh say Downer's turn 7 in the rain:
motorcycle airbag coat
Permalink Reply by Kelly on November 18, 2008 at 9:52pm
Oh no there is definitely waves that come to that point and over. I've been on there several times with inches of water to peddle through on the HIGH part near the wall. Crazy!

Chi Tour de Cure said:
I get confused, because I never see waves hit that high on the corner. I wonder, is it actually runoff from Lakeshore Drive that creates the ice sheet? Anyone?



evanK said:
They can't even keep that stretch paved smoothly! Maybe the easiest, quickest solution would be to install those cement construction barricades along the edge so the waves have a harder time reaching all the way up the slope. It would keep crashers out of the lake, at least, too.

RSS

Groups

© 2008-2016   The Chainlink Community, L.L.C.   Powered by

Disclaimer  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service