Writing to remind riders to wear your bike armor. And, if you don't have
any, consider buying some. Sorry, to sound so preachy as I know everyone in
this ng is aware of trail hazards. (I feel like a Doctor warning a group of
heart specialists about the dangers of cholesterol.)
About a year ago I posted here asking for armor recommendations. Several of
you offered great advice as to which products would be best. (I still have
it.) Unfortunately, I never bought a thing and kept riding without
protection (except for helmet and gloves). Today, I paid the 'Price.'
This morning as I was finishing up my ride, I left the trail and crossed the
street heading back to the parking lot. Thinking it would be nicer to take
a more scenic route, I turned quickly to change course. I over-steered
and fell off the bike landing on the pavement.
This is where the body armor would have come in handy. Instead of
scratching up some plastic, here is what happened.
I banged and bruised my hand on the pavement (good thing I least had some
standard bike gloves to cushion some of the blow).
My arm was scrapped up pretty good near the elbow. At the hospital I got
what must be my 20th tetanous shot because I can never remember when my last
one was.
After I landed I thought I just bruised my ribs. The doctor later told me
because of the pain intensity I most likely broke a rib or two. He didn't
take x-rays as he said my lungs sounded very good and if I felt any
respiratory problems to go to the hospital. I could have had x-rays taken,
but I've had enough radiation from other sources this year.
My shoulder feels a little strained. Hopefully, nothing is wrong there.
Although, this is what I fear most. Those shoulder joints are very complex.
With the body armor I probably would have still strained my shoulder, but my
arm and ribs would probably feel a lot better right now.
I can't say I am an expert mountain biker as I've only had this bike for 3
summers. But, I haven't had any real falls until today. I realize my
injuries may be minor compared to what some of you may have suffered. Thus,
I am not looking for sympathy. I just hope someone can learn from my
procrastination, indecisiveness, cheapness, lack of concern (okay, I'll
stop beating on myself: -) You get the point.
Here's what my life's like without armor: Tonight, I'm not looking forward
to sleeping. May try sleeping on the recliner. I'll be going out shortly
to get the painkiller prescription before the rib pain really kicks in. I
pray I don't sneeze, cough or laugh. Doctor told me to take deep breaths
every two hours. Ouch!!!