OK, it's a day early. But, a 100% chance of freezing rain is predicted for tomorrow. So, I figured I'd just do it a day early. Sunny and 30 degrees when I started. Which isn't bad for this time of the year.

Enjoying a nice ride on one of the Enfields running about 65 when the rear valve stem let loose. First time in all these years that I'd had an in-flight flat. Let's just say, things get squirrely.

Contrary to common practice, I had not done a pre-flight of the bike, aside from oil and fuel. I suspect the rear tire was low from the outset (for reasons as yet unknown) and I simply sheared off the valve stem when braking.Swapped out the tube next to the Amish horse shed at Lowes and back on the road.

Check those tire pressures boys -BEFORE you launch. And live long.
Happy New Year to you all.

Lucky to have a spare tube. But, no small task.

Let's agree the sub-freezing temps generated some cognitive slippage on the safety front. Your point's well taken Engineer. There's a reason we use a pre-flight checklist.