First ride in 2025!

As you may know, I live in Sweden. Sweden usually has distinct seasons, with snow in the winter. In my opinion, only the toughest riders brave the roads all year round. I don’t like getting cold, and I won’t spend money on studded tires. So every spring, that first ride becomes something special.

When the salt (used to melt ice) is gone from the roads, the temperature rises above 10°C, and the sun starts shedding a little more warmth -it’s time.

I backed my crouching Tiger out of its winter hibernation in the garage and gave it a long, loving look. It looked almost naked without the panniers. It looked great.
I checked and adjusted the tire pressure. It was nearly perfect; barely any air had escaped over the winter.

It was time. The engine fired up on the first attempt. I hadn’t expected anything less from an eager cat like Fryd. I put in my earplugs, strapped on my helmet, pulled on my gloves, and took off.

The feeling of freedom, the scent of the countryside, and the pure joy of knowing the season was about to begin filled my soul. After a rough year this was healing.

I was fully aware that the first ride of the season is often the most dangerous. After months off the bike, my skills were a bit rusty. So I reminded myself that you don’t just have to think for yourself – you have to anticipate what every other road user might do as well.

I did a few brake tests to clear the rust off the discs and slalomed a bit to get a feel for the bike’s movement. It felt great, and I was already looking forward to the adventures this season would bring.

The next day, everything was covered in snow.
Oh well. But at least I got a first taste!