Seems like 2024 has too many tragic moments and MANY near misses. My friend Shaun was a recent near miss. He still isn’t out of the woods as back surgery is in his future, but he was riding with friends, and his “CHEAP” front tire blew out cruising the highway at 90+MPH! The eyewitness account is that he maintained control of the bike until he tried to leave the pavement, then things went to hell in a handbag! Lucky for Shaun he didn’t end up in Hell that day! Michael who was riding with him was scared to approach him lying there looking like he was dead, but by the GRACE OF GOD just like Willie he was able to survive for another ride. This picture is Shaun in a back brace on the bike. I feel quite certain this would be against medical advice!!! The reason for this Pony Tales is to remind us all to check your bike for safety. Don’t buy cheap tires and then ride like a bat out of hell! And those of us older peeps including Shaun need to realize we don’t mend as quickly as in the past. Lastly, I will give Shaun credit for wearing a helmet or the situation could have been much worse!! Hug a friend (maybe not Shaun as he is still sore), buy a stranger a drink and don’t forget your sunscreen.