ery where stories are exaggerated and climbs immortalized .
The recently approved Gravel Rat motto , “ We ’ ll See What Happens ,” represents the group ’ s pre-ride optimistic attitude , and well their prevailing belief that regardless of circumstances , opportunities for friendship are possible wherever one decides to create them . The group bestows rat names on all members , like Lying Schnitzel ( Marcus ), who builds the routes and routinely and intentionally misrepresents the climbs ; Snax ( Tina , who is always prepared ); Big Mama and Amazon Princess Warrior ( McKenna Smet and Josi Pinheiro , owners of Elite Wellness Performance and Recovery in Ashburn ); and Mad Mex , Bokeron Square Pants , Big Ring , and The Caboose , to name a few .
The BikeLoudoun Leadership Team , from left : Matt Shaffer , Lisa Campbell and Bruce Werner .
Some Rules of the Road
Not only will you discover history and heritage on your travels along the unpaved roads of western Loudoun , you may also come upon people riding horses , perhaps even the excitement of an entire foxhunt . The most important part for cyclists making this a safe encounter is to communicate and make riders aware of your presence . If approaching from behind , let them know you are coming with a clear “ good morning ” or similar greeting . Do not shout loudly but don ’ t be too tentative either . A horse is far less likely to be spooked by the sound of your voice than by being suddenly surprised by you appearing next to him . Wait until the rider has acknowledged your presence and follow any instructions they may give you for passing . Whether approaching horses from behind or head on , slow down and be prepared to stop . Allow plenty of time and distance for the horse and rider to become aware of your presence and pass widely when it ’ s appropriate to do so .
Pay attention and watch your speed , especially on downhill sections with blind turns . Many gravel roads are narrow with little or no shoulder . For your safety , and as a show of courtesy when you see a vehicle — whether in front or behind — pull over to a safe location and allow the vehicle to pass . Fortunately , you probably won ’ t see many vehicles on your ride , but when you do , show the residents of the area that you ’ re a grateful visitor with a smile and a wave .
Loudoun ’ s old farm roads not only support many residential communities , but they also bring people together in community on the roads themselves , just like they have for hundreds of years . History is inescapably embedded into the landscape of western Loudoun , and as you ride along its quiet roads you can ’ t help but feel like you ’ ve delightfully entered into a time gone by .
Matt Shaffer is a co-manager of BikeLoudoun and an avid bike commuter and trail advocate . He works for the Loudoun County Office of Mapping and Geographic Information . He moved to Loudoun County in 2005 . Bicycling became a passion and way of life for him after living for many years in Fort Collins , Colorado . He currently resides in Lincoln , VA with two large chocolate labs , and when not on his bike can usually be found on a disc golf course , at a concert , or in his organic garden .
20 wander I spring • Summer 2021