so far 935 46,100 3 11:55
More riding through the vast, scenic, unpopulated West today. We rode for miles through lava fields. The geologic anomalies in this part of the country are amazing. We passed through three small towns along our route today. The vastness defies description.
Our usual peace and serenity of the ride was interrupted many times today. The annual Alpencade motorcycle fest wrapped up in Ruidoso, our destination today, so we saw many convoys of motorcyclists along the way. Some congratulated us on our gas mileage and on being "real" cyclists. I'll be glad to accept those compliments.
We did some killer climbing today, long grades at 2-4% all day and some 6-8% grades at the end of the day. We averaged 5% for 1.8 miles at mile 100. Grind it out. Its so much fun riding with these riders. They're all strong and know how to ride. We share the same mental ability to take on the tough grades and pedal on. I had a nice email from Jean Wells Hutson saying its all about the journey. Jean, your wisdom is spot on.
I haven't turned on a television in ten days, although I'll admit the bar where we had dinner tonight had the Emmy's on and later, football. The television was ignored as we swapped stories and experiences during dinner. There is an inner peace that comes during riding for long parts of the day and being in the out of doors. Pedal on.
You are really gettin er done. Sounds like some tough climbing towards the end of the day @ 5% grade. Having an almost 50 degree temp range can be draining especially that 100 degrees. As for TV you aren't missing anything-- the Bears offered up Jay Cutler- sacked 6 times.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your inner peace about riding-- just makes ya smile
Keep pedaling
Bill
Thanks Bill.
ReplyDelete