Thursday, April 24, 2025

No Plan, No Fear: The Night We Challenged the Road

 

A vintage Bajaj CT 100 on an open road (or a rainy road pic)

AI-generated illustration

*Because some stories aren’t about the destination—they’re about the madness that gets you there.*


The Boredom That Sparked an Adventure

Home was about 185 km away from New BEL Road, Bangalore. But back in 2007-2008, this wasn’t a smooth highway cruise.

The Bangalore to Hassan stretch was under heavy construction—still a double road, with dusty diversions, barriers, and chaotic traffic, especially during the holiday season. Add a bit of rain, and what should have been a 3-hour ride easily turned into 4 to 4.5 hours or more.

Did we care? Not at all.

At 7 PM, we kickstarted both the bike and a journey we’d never forget.


Phase 1: Riding on Mileage and Madness

My friend took the first stretch—navigating through holiday traffic, dodging honks, and taking random shortcuts just because we could.

By the time we crossed 80 km, hunger hit, and we stopped at a roadside dhaba near Kunigal. Laughter, hot food, and dust on our faces—it felt perfect.

Now, it was my turn to ride.


A roadside dhaba scene
AI-generated illustration



The Twist in the Tale

Barely 2 km ahead, destiny decided to spice things up.

we heard that dreaded sound—PSSSSSSSSHHH

Puncture? Nope. The entire tube burst.

So there we were, at 9 PM, pushing the bike back to Kunigal in the dark, still laughing like fools.

By 10 PM, with a new tube fitted, the sky added more drama—it started to drizzle.


A symbolic flat tire image
                                                                 AI-generated illustration

Phase 2: Powering Through the Rain

Most would’ve called it quits. But not us.

With me at the handlebar, the under-construction Bangalore-Hassan road became our playground. Mud, barriers, zero visibility—and a 110 CC engine giving it everything.

Top Speed: 85-90 km/h
Lighting: Just our headlamp and hope
Background Music: My phone ringing non-stop (Mom worried, Dad chill)


The Final Stretch

Every kilometer tested us. But somehow, it also made us feel invincible.

At exactly 1 AM, drenched and exhausted, we reached home. My parents stood at the door—relieved, annoyed, but mostly just happy we made it.

The scolding? That was postponed till morning.

A silhouette of two friends reaching home at night
                                                                    AI-generated illustration

What This Ride Taught Us

It wasn’t just a random trip. It became a story we’d tell for years—a story of friendship, recklessness, and the kind of joy only youth can understand.

Moral of the Story

When you’re young, sometimes the best thing you can do is say 'Why not?'

Because long after the roads are repaired and the bike is sold, it’s the crazy rides, the bad decisions, and the good company that stay with you.

Share Your Story!

Have you ever set out on a spontaneous adventure like this? Maybe a late-night ride, an unplanned trip, or a moment where youth and excitement took over logic?

I'd love to hear your stories! Drop them in the comments or connect with me—let’s celebrate those unforgettable journeys together.

A Gentle Caution to Young Adventurers

While these stories make for great memories, always remember—safety comes first.

If you're planning an adventure, no matter how spontaneous, make sure to:
- Inform your parents or family.
- Check your vehicle properly.
- Carry essentials like a phone charger, basic tools, and some cash.
- Stay alert, especially during night rides or bad weather.

Adventure is best when it’s **responsible**. Enjoy the thrill, but ensure you get home safe to tell the tale!

6 comments:

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