OUCH!

Went for a final ride for 2005 Saturday afternoon. Temps here were in the mid 60s. (Probably from the grass fires!) I have developed a habit of looking through the winshields of any vehicles I get caught behind to watch for road hazards..etc. And I also never tailgate but all my efforts were futile Saturday. As we approached a passing zone, I was following a pickup and could not see past him to check the road. Was actually looking around to check for passing clearance when I was launched about a foot into the air. Never saw it coming. Maintained control and pulled over. The pickup stopped and backed up to where I parked. Fortunate to have a wide shoulder. I asked him what I hit and he replied "Firewood!" My tire seemed to be holding pressure so I decided to ride it home. Found out on the first curve that the pressure was a temporary thing. While I don't recommend it on a continuing basis, it is possible to ride a VFR 70 miles with a flat front tire! Ran 55-65 most of the way and slowed down and waved people by as they approached from the rear. Didn't want anyone close to my six if the thing went hinky on me. Irony is I was looking along the roadside during the first 30 or so miles and contemplated counting the empty or discarded oil bottles and antifreeze containers, this after reading of a members getoff on an oil slick created by a case of oil.

Any way, I wasn't hurt and the only damage visible is the rim and tire. The Avon Azaro seems to be no worse for the ordeal but think Progressive will buy me a new one anyway.

Just wanted to get a warning out to all the boys and girls to be extra vigilant. There seems to be no end to the amount and type of debris that shows up in the pathways. Ride careful!