Pedal Descent

A parked commuter bicycle leaned against the iron fence, its left pedal sticking straight out like an open platform. High ground was right there. I bounded off the curb, launched myself upward, and landed all four paws squarely on the ribbed rubber tread. The metal crank arm dipped instantly beneath my weight. Whirr-click. It swung downward in a smooth, heavy arc, carrying me along like a miniature elevator! I dug my pads into the rubber grooves and held my posture dead upright, cape streaming back. The pedal came to a soft stop at the bottom stroke, inches above the asphalt. Ride completed. Descent stuck.