Christmas poem, Mark Richardson

For a rider at Christmas, there’s no greater gift
Than to take out the bike for a mid-season lift.

When there’s snow on the ground and a bite to the air,
Your bike is still waiting, though ride it with care.
The roads must be clear and empty of snow,
But if that’s the case, then you really should go
For a ride in December, wherever you are.
Just start up the engine – you needn’t go far.

Good gloves and grip heaters, warm boots and a scarf –
If you’re facing the winter, don’t do things by half.
Full-coverage helmet, a wired-up vest
And a thick padded jacket will always be best.
Thin oil, good fuel, deep tread on each tire.
Then your ride will come through with all you desire.

People will stare at you. People will gawk.
They’ll think you are crazy if you try to talk
About how much you want to head out on your bike.
When the temperature’s freezing, there’s not much to like
Unless you are snug as a bug in a rug.
And then you’ll be happy, ‘cos riding’s a drug.

But you’ve got to go slowly, and you’ve got to take care
As you follow the road through the cold winter air.
Keep your visor flipped up so you don’t fog too quick;
Watch out for the ice that will make the street slick.
Canada’s cruel at this time of year
When your breath turns to crystals and your eyes start to tear.