September

The intensity of August -- when cycling is about hot weather, nutrition, endurance, peak performance, long rides, and numerous events -- has given way to the freedom and triumph of September. The air has cooled, the events are once again months away, and riding has regained a sense of joy, sharpened by the conditioning a few thousand miles will convey.

September is a favorite month for cycling, as leaves crunch and acorns pop beneath tires, fall colors dapple the landscape, and crisp mornings become the norm. Arm warmers emerge, knee warmers are located (probably for later, but you never know), and glove liners come out. It is a time to ride fast, with enough strength to also completely enjoy your surroundings. Training is no longer the goal, nor is optimizing performance. This is the pay-off. This is about riding the momentum of training into transition, into the end of the season, and loving every minute of it.

On the downside, school and the rigamarole of the normal has resumed, so roads are more crowded during commutes, and mornings are constrained. Shorter days also eliminate optimal stretches for riding, as dawn moves from 5:30 to 6:00 to 6:30 and later, and sunset arrives alarmingly early some evenings, especially when the longer shadows also dim the roads prematurely. Weekends become crowded with other activities -- apple picking, soccer, and yard work. The time to ride begins to drain away yet again.

Nevertheless, September reigns -- riding tempos are faster in September, and speeds reach their zenith. The air is less humid and cooler. Mornings are resplendent in color and change. September is the greatest month to cycle, so bask in its long shadows and warm sunshine. The chill of October, and the grim grip of winter, is just around the next corner . . .