Stone Step

Moving along the flagstone border, the path cut sharp into a dense patch of velvet moss growing across a low stone step. The slick green carpet offered zero traction, spinning the rear knobby tire in place. Forcing the throttle would just burn rubber and spray damp loam over the swingarm. I dismounted, planted both boots firmly on the dry rock, and scouted the margin. A discarded dried pinecone lay wedged against the edge of the pavers. I broke off three thick, woody scales with my fingers and pressed them flat into the damp moss like staggered cleats. Remounted, leaned over the handlebars, and eased the throttle down. The tire lugs bit into the pinecone scales and climbed the stone ledge without a slip. Smooth ascent secured.