Introduction to Scariest Moments in Bike Travel

Bike travel can be an exhilarating and adventurous journey, but it is not without its challenges, dangerous moments, and scares. In this article, we will delve into some of the most challengingscarystrifult moments experienced during an individual's bike ride. From nearly being squashed by an irrational SUV driver to navigating treacherous terrain in Northern Ontario, these experiences provide a unique insight into the unpredictable nature of bike travel. Join us as we explore these thrilling and sometimes terrifying incidents.

A Near Disaster with an Irrational Driver

One of the most startling and terrifying incidents occurred on a bike ride in early August 2015, when I was almost assaulted by an irrational SUV driver. Described as a ‘batshit crazy lady,’ this incident nearly resulted in a life-threatening situation. The encounter started as I was riding along a road, unaware of the imminent danger. The driver, who seemed to be agitated by my presence, violently and illegally maneuvered her vehicle towards me, nearly pushing me off the road and into a ditch. I was precariously close to being crushed under her vehicle, thanks to her reckless and unfathomable behavior.

The Combustible Mix of Overconfidence and Sleep Deprivation

The near-disaster described earlier was not the first time I had to deal with dire circumstances on my bike. Another significant scare happened after a tandem skydive, where the adrenaline was still coursing through my veins. Despite my reservations and the pressing need to rest, I decided to push through and ride the remaining distance to my destination in Barrie. As I navigated the rural roads, the combination of adventure-excitement and extreme sleep deprivation led to a harrowing moment when I drifted off to sleep at the controls of my bike, causing a devastating fall into a ditch. Fortunately, no one was on the road when it happened, but the close call was a stark reminder of the perils faced by cyclists.

Challenges of Adventure Travel: Otter Tail Creek Expedition

The bicentennial celebrating the DRA biking trials on Northern Ontario required a robust adventure, yet it turned out to be a series of trials and tribulations. Exploring the back roads near North Bay, I ventured out to Otter Tail Creek, a challenging and narrow route through dense and rugged terrain. The trail was suitable for hiking, but finding the actual starting point was a daunting task. The creek was wide and fast-flowing, causing me to drop the bike multiple times and drench the panniers. Each time, I attempted to navigate the water without taking off the panniers, a mistake that nearly turned catastrophic.

One of the most distressing incidents occurred when I fell into a stream above a small waterfall, severely injuring my hand. This accident coupled with the mechanical issues on the way back, including a malfunctioning camera, made me realize the importance of preparation. Disregarding these lessons, I continued with my journey, navigating treacherous logging roads. The back end of my Nishiki touring bike often exhibited wild behavior, save for one memorable descent where I used a gravel berm to scrub off excess speed. These experiences underscore the importance of caution and thorough preparation when embarking on a bike adventure.

Conclusion and Future Preparedness

Bike travel, with its mix of beauty and peril, can be a life-changing experience. Each of the described moments, from nearly being crushed by an irrational driver to navigating a series of challenging trails, provides valuable lessons on safety and preparedness. The stories highlight the need for vigilance, the importance of rest, and the often-overlooked risk factors in adventure travel. Building the next adventure machine from a proper mountain bike was not just a practical choice but a testament to the lessons learned from past experiences. These accounts serve as a reminder that every bike trip is a unique journey filled with untold stories and adventures.

Additional Resources

For a more detailed look at these experiences, readers are invited to visit the author's blog, Strung Out Cyclist, for the complete story. For visual documentation, check out theOttawa to Otter Tail Creek photo album on Flickr.