Fall is here and while the morning temperature was under 40 degrees F, by early afternoon, it was over 50 and it was time to ride! Make no mistake, I ride in the winter when the roads are clear, but the first cool ride of the fall is such a change that it requires a bit more thought in terms of gear and clothing.

We set off for Floyd, a small county in Southwest Virginia known for it’s music, artisan products, and local restaurants / businesses.   The Friday Night Jamboree, held at the Floyd Country Store, features traditional, old time, and bluegrass music.

Floyd Fest showcases roots and progressive world music, and each year draws thousands of music lovers from all over the world (these photos from 2012).

We stopped at Dogtown Roadhouse, and while waiting for our pizza and craft beer, I wandered around town to capture the scene.

Once back on the road, the others headed for home, but I kept on riding.  I just wasn’t ready to get off the bike.  First, I rode to the old Radford Water Tower,

and then down to the river.

I could have ridden even longer, but evening was coming on and I still had chores to do.

Some rides are short on miles, this one only 85, but it was long on curvy roads, beautiful scenery, and fun times with friends.