Overthinking and Cattle Grates: Mountain Bike Mishaps (and Triumphs)
- Michelle Eidam
- May 18, 2024
- 3 min read
Bend, Oregon's high desert stretched out before us, a canvas of winding singletrack dotted with vibrant yellow wildflowers. A soft blue sky, dappled with airy white clouds, framed the snow-capped mountains in the distance. Horse Butte Trail, promising stunning views and a mellow ride, beckoned.
In the parking lot, we met a seasoned trio gearing up. Bundled in jackets while we sported single layers, their attire sparked a silent question: did they know something we didn't? Turns out, yes they did. After exchanging pre-ride banter, they warned us about a challenging section – "too technical for me," one rider chuckled, "I walk that part.”
We set off, the ride initially smooth and easy. But as warned, the trail kicked up a notch, littered with rocks and demanding sharper turns. My initial confidence wobbled, remembering the rider's words. Maybe I should've listened about the layers too? As I hung my head and walked my bike up the challenging section, I questioned my post-ride beer eligibility.
A weathered bench at the top bore a plaque: 'In Memory of Norman.' We took a moment to appreciate the view, a panorama worthy of being someone's favorite spot. And it’s obvious why. The high desert terrain in front of me is beautiful in its own way, but frame it with Mount Bachelor, the Three Sisters, Mount Washington, Three Fingered Jack, Black Butte, and more, as far as I can see. It’s absolutely awe-inspiring.
From here, the ride was a carefree cruise. We weaved through the landscape, tackling small hills with ease. Then, we encountered the strangest cattle guard – a small bridge made of metal grates. Ty, my fearless partner, didn't hesitate and launched right over it. Me? My overthinking immediately kicked in. After watching him effortlessly navigate the bridge, I fixate on the grates, convinced that walking would be smarter. But I am so wrong! Walking a bike on uneven metal grates ends up being way sketchier than riding! Go figure. On the other side, I receive a solid dose of teasing from Ty for "chickening out." Determined to conquer my fear (and quiet him down), I turn back and ride across the bridge. Overthinking not allowed! And guess what? I survived! We cross it one more time and I ask Ty what all the fuss was about. He rolls his eyes, but with a smile on his face – all in good fun.
As all good things must come to an end, we cruise into the parking lot and I wonder what could make this adventure better? How bout pairing it with one of my favorite hazy IPA’s - Batsquatch! This Oregon-brewed beer is just the right amount of fruity combined with the perfect amount of hops, and a crazy looking beast on the can that just begs you to give it a try. Oh, and it is just so smooth, it tastes like a little slice of heaven to me.
The ride had been a perfect blend of challenge and reward, proving that sometimes the best views come after the hard work. It also served as a hilarious reminder to embrace our personalities, quirks, and weaknesses. My overthinking might have caused a few bumps, but with a little humor and support (and maybe a nudge from a fearless partner), I could overcome them and enjoy the ride (literally and metaphorically). Cheers!
Michelle Eidam is a freelance writer with a thirst for adventure – exploring mountains, trails, breweries, and everything in between.
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