Riding = good. Riding fast = better.

Just got back from an XC ride with regional legend and all-around nice guy “Fast” Jon Watt. What a treat to ride at my own pace or — even better — a hair faster than my own pace.

Jon and I used to ride together all the time, but it’s been well over a year since our last adventure. Jon’s been killing it in XC, ST, DS, 4X, PT (pump track) and whatever else he feels like doing. I’ve been riding some, but almost always with clients or by myself.

This afternoon Jon and I met at the Heil Ranch parking lot just outside Boulder. I rocked my 5-inch Stumpy with knobby tires and stiff suspension; he rocked his 6-inch Heckler with fast tires and soft suspension.

The climb was stout but manageable. I led the Wild Turkey descent, then Jon took over. He floated and carved and braaaped, a study in fast, playful fluidity.

What a treat to chase those cavorting wheels.