Shivering Ride

We got caught in a tremendous downpour just after the Mandai loop. It started with thunder and a light drizzle, and we decided to cut short our ride and head home. Less than 1km later, the rain pelted down, in an orchestrated washout. Visibility dropped, the roads started to swell with water, and we were getting splashed by passing vehicles.

We decided to stop at a bus stop and wait out the rain. We had started the ride in bright sunshine and did not have our lights on the bikes. Drivers would not be able to see us on the roads. There was not much of a shelter at the bus stop because the rain was simply too heavy. The wind blew the rain in, and every passing vehicle created a fountain in our way. We were drenched a few times even as we sat on the bench, waiting. It started to get cold too. Hailing a cab was not an option despite the many empty ones that drove past. No drivers would want to stop in the torrential rain to pick up 2 wet cyclists, with or without our bikes. "Lame sitting ducks" sprang to mind, that aptly described us at the bus stop - cold, wet, miserable. I started to shiver. Brrrr.....

After about 30min, the rain seemed to have lightened up (but still heavy nonetheless). We decided to just brave the rain and cycle home. It was cold, and stressful. I was literally shivering at one traffic junction when we stopped for the lights. Hands and legs involuntarily shaking. Had to try all means to generate some body heat for myself. We went very slowly and carefully. Thankfully, traffic was slow as well, as drivers battled the rain and wet roads. They gave us enough berth. At one stretch, the left lane was flooded with muddy waters, and we had to filter with the cars to the other remaining lane. Harrowing. The rain was pelting into my eyes, I had to force them open and rub them frequently. We were not wearing shades as they were too dark in the rain.

The rain got heavier as we neared home. Crumbs... Finally, made it back. Whew! I had never cycled in such a heavy rain before. And it was not a pleasant experience.