Easy Riders

Annual Metric Bike Ride

A revved-up group of bikers turned out for the Annual Metric Bike Ride this past Saturday (May 9). As early as 7:00 am, bikers showed up at the G. Galloway Reynolds Community Center to register and prepare for one of three bike rides — the 24-, the 42- or the 62-mile ride.

This fundraising event was co-sponsored by the Lewisville Civic Club and the Piedmont Flyers Bicycle Club. As in years past, proceeds from the bike ride will help to provide college scholarships to deserving local high schoolers.

And They’re Off!

Around 8:00 am, the first and largest group of bikers — those taking the 62-mile loop — shot out of Lucy Lane onto Shallowford Road, headed for Yadkin County via Lewisville-Vienna and Yadkinville Roads. They were soon followed by the 42-mile and the 24-mile riders making their way along their respective routes.

As soon as the first group of bikers had passed me, I headed to my truck and took off in the opposite direction, in order to position myself along Yadkinville Road for some head-on shots of the bikers before they crossed the Yadkin River.

I drove as fast as I (legally) could, making my way down Conrad Road and eventually parking at Ted’s Kickin Chicken on Yadkinville Road. Not more than a few minutes after I’d gathered my camera gear and crossed the road, the first of the bikers came barreling around the curve there. I was surprised they’d arrived so soon! But I began clicking off shot after shot as bikers continued to come by in groups ranging from 20 or more to one or two at a time.

The Final Shots

Once it seemed that all of the bikers had come by, I got back in my truck and headed to the Yadkin River Bridge on Shallowford Road. That’s where I ended my photo shoot, eventually capturing the bikers coming across the bridge on their return route. I stayed there till about 12 noon.

To check out the variety of shots taken that morning, please visit the Annual Metric Bike Ride photo gallery.

Recurring Thought

As I wrapped up the photo shoot, one thought kept running through my mind: If only my calf muscles looked half as sculpted as some I had spotted that morning!

Country Road

One of the most serene areas of Forsyth County is found along Conrad Road in Lewisville. Scenes of the beautiful maple-lined section that stretches for about a mile can sometimes leave one breathless.

Traveling from Shallowford Road, you’ll first encounter the younger section of maples. Though full and stately, the younger maples are merely the prelude to a grander experience.

At about the half-way point, the scene dramatically changes. The sky disappears from sight as you pass under a natural canopy created by much older, taller and heftier maples. Although the speed limit is 55 mph, I’ll tend to slow down considerably to enjoy traveling through the tunnel of trees. For a few moments, my internal world seems to slow down, too.

With very little light penetrating from above, the light that does find its way into that blissful world predominantly comes in from the sides. And it’s the side light — in the mornings and evenings — that creates some delightful scenes.

If you’ve never driven along Conrad Road in Lewisville, treat yourself to an enjoyable excursion some sunny morning or evening. I think you’ll see why this area is so beloved.

Interested in more Conrad Road coverage? CLICK to enjoy more ARTICLES and PHOTOS on Conrad Road.

Down to Earth

It was a nice morning to be out photographing. Walkers, runners, and bikers had the same idea. Besides the refreshing weather, I’m sure these two enjoyed each other’s company.