Donned a mask and took the Rawland Nordavinden out on
a variation of the North Bridge loop, 32 miles through Arlington, Lexington, Bedford, Carlisle, Concord, and Lincoln. Headed out Mass. Ave., picking up Bedford Street in Lexington Center and then taking the Minuteman to Depot Park (mistake, I think, but not a serious one). Rode out 225 across the Concord River, then climbed Skelton Road and enjoyed the rolling hills on River Road and Monument Street, then picked up Lexington Road and continued on North Great Road/Route 2A as far as Mill Street, picking up Lexington Road/Lincoln Street and pausing to admire the waves on the Cambridge Reservoir, then rolled under Route 128 and climbed Middle Street to Marrett Road and on past Dunback Meadow to Mass. Ave. and down the road from East Lexington to East Arlington and home.
East Lexington: this too shall pass.
Bedford: sudden change happens.
225 approaching the Concord River, a gray and breezy day with a bit of well-behaved traffic.
Crossing the Concord River into Carlisle under lowering skies.
River Road, Carlisle: Blue Bird Hill Farm.
Monument Street, Concord: top of the hill, Hutchins Farm. Most Spring ride reports on this route involve dodging a certain number of potholes, but I'm pleased to relate that the pavement on Monument Street was admirably smooth.
Concord Center: the Quick have the Dead sleeping in the back yard.
The Wayside, nicely renovated but closed to visitors.
East Arlington: flying the flags. Om mani padme hum.
rod