Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Flirtations with Asphalt

Of the few but valuable gifts received for Christmas, I obtained a longboard. Not any longboard mind you, but the Robert August ii by Surf One, a Skate and Surf Company from my native SoCal. Upon my return to the Golden State, I was of course itching to take it out for a ride. My neighborhood, Sunset Hills, is true to the name and quite rich in paved slopes. After getting the basic hang of the steering, I decided to see just how fast I could go, to satisfy my curiosity for velocity.
The Board!


Those inclined towards boarding, and or physics are well acquainted with a phenomenon known as the "speed wobbles". It is defined by a certain frequency achieved by the wheels, which reverberates across the trucks or the axles, which subsequently shakes the board or chassis respectively.
 
Robert August
  For those you have ever been thrown off of a bike or a board or a trampoline, and have achieved flight for the briefest of moments. You know the thought process during the flight. Before the take off and during take off: "This is not going to End well". Midflight: This is gonna hurt really bad, I hope I don't die." This is also accompanied by the terror and panic of the imminent landing. And Finally the Grande Finale: The crash landing in which you hit the ground hard, tumble, roll and sustain injury.
Left Palm


  So after my first hands on experience with the speed wobbles and my first attempt at aeronautics in a long time I am left both palms scuffed up, left elbow slightly shredded, right knee cap with medium road rash. Head uninjured due to Helmet! (never not wearing a helmet again)

Right palm
    As I lay there bruised and bandaged, I am left wondering, which is more dangerous... flirting with girls, or asphalt...



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