Wanda and I went for a ride on Big Red on Friday following several county roads in Duval, St Johns, and Clay Counties. We took the roads less traveled. Wild turkeys, the St. John's River, long bridges, forests, single lane bridges over little creeks, and lots of pick-up trucks were all in our view.
Our first stop was at Starbucks in Green Cove Springs. After checking Iphones and our GPS, we headed due west and then south off of SR 16. Passing by the Clay County Fair, we took an even smaller county road south.
After riding about 15 minutes, we came to the end of the paved road without any warning. There was a simple sign that noted that it would be 6 miles before reaching the paved road again. So the question was whether to turn around or go forward. With a few moments thought, we determined to press ahead. So onward we rode into the Florida wild. We rode for miles without seeing anyone and only passed one pick-up truck until we hit another "major" county road taking us to Keystone Heights.
A couple of times "Big Red" fought "fish tailing" in the Florida sand, but a steady throttle and strong hands and arms kept it on track until gaining better traction. Riding in sand is not what I bought this bike to do, but the good news is that I learned I could do it if necessary. Also, no one knew our route. We were way out in the Florida wild by ourselves. That wasn't good.
What is the take-a-way?
We had a great ride on a gorgeous day. Also, I learned that I could take "Big Red" through sandy roads if necessary. Finally, I will look much closer at my map to find good paved roads that do not turn into sand.
Have you ever been to Penny Farms, Florida? What about Green Cove Springs? Do you know where Lake Geneva is in Keystone Heights?
Have you ever shopped at JC Penny's? Mr. Penny founded Penny Farms, Fl., with the intent to provide a retirement center for ministers. His parents were ministers and had no place to live after retiring. Mr. Penny bought this land and turned it into retirement center. Wanda and I didn't get to spend any time there, but we will return soon to Penny Farms on "Big Red."
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