Canada to Mexico 2008

Mark Gunther's "PACtour Blues" song

2008-08-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

The highlight of the final night on Ridge of the Rockies was a live performance of his new hit song, "The PACtour Blues" by Mark Gunther! It's certainly not the same as Mark's passionate performance...but, you get the point!

Get up in the morning
You feel tired and pained
But it doesn't really matter
You're going to ride again
The wind it may be howling
But no one gives a shit
You're on a Pac Tour baby,
So suck it up and get into it.

Pac Tour breakfasts
Prepare you well to ride
What you scarf in 15 minutes
Would make most people wide
Yet all that you can think of
Is the food the SAG's may choose
But you've got to ride there first
And that gives you the Pac Tour Blues

Climbing up a mountain
In your little bit of hell
David comes from Florida
How come he climbs so well
Craig and Ray fly up those hills
Like angels coming through
But when all you hear is 'Look, he's going backwards, Phil'
Y'know that gives you the Pac Tour Blues

Your neck hurts like the blazes
So do your feet and thighs
Sitting in the saddle hurts as much as when you rise
There's nothing you'd like better
Than to sag at rest stop 2
But, no, you'll ride another 100 miles
With a bad case of the Pac Tour Blues.

Come into the lunch stop
Feeling like a wreck
Susan's so damn cheerful
You'd like to wring her neck
You wash your hands again and again . . . And
Look at all the scrumptious food
But when you think it tastes like cardboard
You know you've got the Pac Tour Blues.

Gary he rides it steady
Dan he rides it slow
Wayne's ride is mysterious
Where does that fellow go?
Chip goes off the front at once
Rich rides straight and true
But when you just can't hold his wheel again
You're guaranteed the Pac Tour Blues

A lot of us on Pac Tour
Are really kind of old
The aches and pains that are normal
Pac Tour makes them grow
Our friends they think we're crazy
Who knows it might be true, but
When you find yourself agreeing with them
You surely have the Pac Tour Blues

Janet hurt her ankle
Dan he hurt his calf
Lil's got a magic knee potion she brought all the way from France
But if you're so sore & hurting that
Even Jon can't get you through
And you have to walk down stairs sideways
You know you've got the Pac Tour Blues

The road has many hazards
To stop you on your way
At least you bike is shiny
from washing every day
The highway can be bumpy
The pilot cars too few
But 3 flats in six miles, Don,
Gave you a bad case of the Pac Tour Blues

The towns and the hotels
Seem to run together
Was it hot today or cold
You can't even remember the weather
Just ride and eat and sleep, and tomorrow is take 2
When it starts to feel like working
You know you've got the PacTour Blues

But then you see the mountains, or
Bomb down a long descent
Ride strongly in that paceline
Suddenly you're quite content
Thank you Lon & Susan for everything you do
Its loving being on the bike that takes away those old Pac Tour Blues
Yes its loving being on the bike that takes away those old Pac Tour

by Mark Gunther

The Banquet!

2008-08-16T19:36:00.000-07:00

Huge thanks to all of the PACTour staff! They took really great care of us all during this trip.

They had a banquet for us tonight at the Marriott, complete with the presentation of photo plaques and a hilarious song: "The PACTour Blues" written and performed by Mark Gunther. I'll try to post the lyrics soon!

The Official Route Map was auctioned off tonight. Lon and Susan use the money from this auction to help build school in rural areas of Peru. The map went for $2100!!!

It was really great to have Sal and Luanne here with me! We had some good laughs...that's for sure!

Day 19 Las Cruces,NM to El Paso,TX 65 miles 1600' climbing

2008-08-16T14:00:00.000-07:00

It's all over! I'm posting from the lobby of the Marriott in El Paso...with an ice cold Shiner Bock at hand (no Fat Tire in these parts...dang!) Thanks for taking the time to keep up with me! It was great knowing you were out there!

The day got started under cloudy skies and a very light rain. We rolled out of Las Cruces and back into the farmlands and pecan groves of southern New Mexico. It was Saturday, so there were plenty of club riders out today. Team Time-trial was back in action and it was a blast to go flying by a small group out for a Saturday ride. Since it was mostly flat with a big climb at mile 40...I decided to really hammer the flats in an attempt to soften up Chip's climbing legs! A few of the local riders tried to hang on...only one was successful.

It was a short 65 mile ride to El Paso...so no need for stopping at the rest stops today! We wanted to get this over with!
After entering Texas we had a long 3 mile climb up and over Lincoln Mountain, which Chip won handily! I tried as hard as I could the last 1/2 mile...it wasn't going to happen! It was a beautiful descent down into El Paso and then a long circular tour to the Marriott and the end! My Mother and Sister-in-law were there to greet us with cheers and a huge cluster of balloons! It was really great to see them.

Bike packing went smoothly...thanks to the AirCaddy. It is considerably easier to manage than a standard bike box. Using shipbikes.com and the pre-paid FEDEX label was also a breeze.

I miss my beautiful wife and can't wait to see her! HUGE thanks to Katie for understanding how important this trip was to me.
And, big thanks to Luanne and Sal for making the long trip to El Paso...to cheer me to the finish!

I hope you enjoyed keeping up with this blog!

David

Great trip boys! Thanks for the laughs and a fabulous 3 weeks of riding!

Joel entering the first set of pecan groves

the boys flying thru the pecan groves

Ms. Johnson's 8th grade tractor driving class!

a few small vineyards scattered around southern New Mexico.

since New Mexico is too cheap to post a State Line sign at the northern entrance to the state....we shot it on our way into Texas this morning.

the boys at the Texas border

just starting the long climb up Lincoln Mountain

the last bit of climbing for the tour!

our first double "truck on cheese". Chip gives me a "sympathy wait" at the top

Chip victorious in his acceptance of KOM...again!

on the descent into El Paso...from the top of el paso!

The boys are greeted by Sal and Luanne!

Love the heart balloon!

Day 18 Truth or Consequences,NM to Las Cruces,NM 82 miles 1200' climbing

2008-08-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

It's almost over!!!! Today was a little subdued...with everyone now anticipating the last day of riding tomorrow!
Craig and I rolled down the hill and thru T or C this morning...minus Chip who was over at Denny's polishing off a Grand Slam.
We were joined by Team Slauson and soon got a nice steady paceline working south towards Las Cruces. We took advantage of Rest #1 in hopes that Mr. Grand Slam (Chip) would come flying by. As we pulled out...there he was. Ipod in...a sure sign that he meant business today! He was a man on a mission. Craig and I barely caught him. It took Team Slauson a few more minutes to get caught on...and then we were 5! The route took us thru some really beautiful farmlands along the Rio Grande River and into Hatch,NM...world famous for it's chile peppers! A few close calls with farm dogs (the good thing about being up front is the farm dogs haven't had a chance to gauge your speed..they usually chase for about 100yds and then retreat). Chip quick- stopped lunch and rolled the rest of the way into town solo. As we got closer to Las Cruces, we started seeing huge groves of pecan trees...that soon gave way to Las Cruces' sprawl! Craig and I met up with Chip again for a quick stop at the DQ for milkshakes...man, it was hot today!

The hotel had a margarita reception for us...then Chip and I walked over to the Old Town section of Las Cruces. Reminded me of St. Augustine...with plenty of cheesy tourist shops...and heat!

Tomorrow we roll for the final time....Las Cruces to El Paso! I'm fortunate to have a welcoming committee when I get into El Paso tomorrow in my mother & sister-in-law. It will be great to see them! It's only 65 miles...so I hope I'm not too sweaty & stinky! To be honest, Craig, Chip and I were ready to just keep riding on to El Paso today!

Some may say it's the internet, television, radio, or even the thermos...I now believe "this" (the motel waffle machine) is man's greatest invention!

rollin' towards Las Cruces

the Rio Grande River...not very exciting!

we rolled in to Hatch,NM just as the kitchen van was passing us. The speed goes from 45 to 30 and Mr. Sheriff was at the ready to make his quota. Fortunately, he only gave them a warning. We were really worried it would slow them enough we'd miss lunch!! The humanity!!!

did I tell you it was hot today?

Craig rolling thru the pecan groves

The Old Town Square in Las Cruces

somehow...I don't think Billy would be proud of the fact they sell fudge and t-shirts in "his" store. He was more a bullets and whiskey guy!

business must not be so good...lot's of store are closed down.

"Sucker Punch Sally's"?

The Organ Mountains that loom over Las Cruces from the east.

Thursday night in TorC

2008-08-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

OK....there is very little to do in T or C, NM! I finished the ride...took a dip in the pool...called Katie...and got a shower! It took us about 1/2 an hour to crash the internet access in the hotel (which we do every night..in every hotel). So I occupied myself in the time before dinner with creating the one sign we've dreamed of seeing! I bring you....."Cow on cheese"!

After dinner it was off to the Grand Opening of the Super WalMart. An event we could not miss! Mostly, it looked like people from the surrounding areas...milling about the monstrous produce section with that : "what the heck is that thing?" look on their faces.

Our dinner got off to an odd start as the salsa was frozen solid! The rest of the meal was pretty good.

The Cochina Skewer....smothered in the local green chile sauce that was fabulous!

The internet access deal is getting pretty funny. If I don't go straight from the bike to the blog...you have to wait until late at night or early the next morning to get the report. I counted 18 computers in the "computer bin" this morning...that's a lot of data coming in and out over a Super8's DSL. Joel gave up today and walked over to the Comfort Inn to poach their wireless.
Usually, it's some kid behind the front desk who has to call the Manager back to reset the server. Glad I could get out again...it's 8:30PM! Off to Los Cruces,NM in the morning. Hoping for a tailwind!

Day 17 Socorro,NM to Truth or Consequences,NM 77 miles 2700' climbing

2008-08-14T14:12:00.000-07:00

Today was Day 2 of Team Time-trial! We hadn't planned to go hard again today, but there was a threat of rain and it was pretty hot in the sun by 7:30A. The route today was very lightly traveled frontage road that paralleled I-25...for the entire 77 miles. I think 3 cars passed us all day! We knew there'd by zero shade and the road was recently chip/sealed...nice and black to radiate heat! It started as Chip,Craig and I. We picked up Matt about 2 miles in...and then Joel jumped onto "Team Time-Trial flight #75" bound for Truth or Consequences (TOC). 77 miles seems like nothing at this point....but the route today was a long series of rolling hills. It was a very hard interval workout and began to wear on all of us. You'd roll down a hill for 30 seconds and then climb for 2 minutes....rinse and repeat about 100 times! At Rest #1, (35 miles) Joel said he'd had enough. Craig, (still not 100%) managed to hang on for about 10 more miles. Then it was just Chip, Matt and I...and by the lunch SAG (which was not yet setup) I was starting to fade! We only had 10 miles to go to TOC, so we filled water bottles (and I snuck a big bowl of pudding) and set off. It was pretty easy to keep a well-disciplined paceline today because we had mile posts to mark our efforts. You pull for a mile and then drift to the back to rest. My thermometer registered 102 at the lunch SAG....we were glad to be done so early. We had lunch at the TOC Denny's...and then I rolled down the hill into the town of TOC. Or, what's left of any semblance of a town. Ironically, today was the Grand Opening of the new WalMart. Guaranteed to be the final nail in the coffin of whatever businesses are left in the downtown area. Pretty sad! This was our first outdoor motel pool, so most everyone took advantage of it! The tan lines have really gotten out of control!

I needed to change up my riding and today was the perfect workout! After 3 weeks of long steady efforts it was time to throw in some really hard interval efforts. I can really feel the last 3 weeks of power in my legs.

Only 2 more days of riding and I'll be in El Paso! It has really gone by fast!

I take a lot of grief for the large quantities of food I consume. Now it's my turn! Last night as we sat down for dinner, I turn to Lil and Raymond at the next table and asked what they were having (it looked really good). A few minutes later, I heard them both order a second helping. A few moments later, the waitress showed up with two dessert pizzas. Please let the record reflect: I only had one entree, one beer and one salad! Well, I had a milkshake and a Whopper before dinner...but that doesn't count..does it?

back out into the prairielands of New Mexico

the early version of today's Team Time-trial...Joel Matt & Craig.

today's infinity road...

trust me...the restaurant looked as grungy as this pump! They'd have had to "pay" me $100 to eat there!

Matt, making what may be the very last withdrawal from the First Gravitational Bank of New Mexico...I think it's pretty flat from here to El Paso!

Chip pushing me up the big climb out of the canyon!

New Mexico grasslands

NM 181 heading south towards TOC. Yes, 12 miles of totally straight blacktop warmed to an uncomfortable 102 degrees!

We had another 3 mile section on I-25 today. Basically, bomb the downhill (background) and then dig your way up the other side. That deposited us back onto NM 181 and the rollers...for the remaining 15 miles into town.

Day 16 Moriarty,NM to Socorro,NM 112* miles 2500' climbing

2008-08-13T15:00:00.000-07:00

Woke up to an amazing sunrise in Moriarty! It was the only thing 'beautiful" in that town/truck stop. We rolled out early with the intention of making short work of the 119* miles down to Socorro (*note the discrepancy between the published mileage and our final mileage for the day!). Today's route was relatively flat...with only 2500' of climbing. The first section was rolling hills and wide-open farm land. Craig, Chip and I went into Team Time-trial mode early. We were a good 3 miles off the front by Rest #1...and another mile or two further off the front by Rest #2 just on the outskirts of Mountainaire,NM. Unfortunately, about a mile past the stop we were held up (again) by road work. The signalman had already been informed to hold us until we were all together for an escort. We had worked our butts off to get out in front...we weren't thrilled to have to wait...and then get caught by the group. It was a tortuous wait of close to 40 minutes. We decided that if the State of New Mexico was going to take away our advantage...the State of New Mexico should help reinstate our lead! We noticed a Torrence County Outreach van with 3 school teachers aboard and sent Mr. Charisma (Chip) up to ask for a lift thru the road work site. We piled in just as the entire group rolled up next to the bus. I blew them all kisses as we rolled off down the road. The ladies dropped us almost exactly were we would have been had we not been held up. Plus, it was really fun talking with them. This area is extremely rural! They have to drive 35-50 miles to pick up some of the kids they teach. And, most these kids are very poor. Thanks for the lift ladies!

The route after lunch dropped down onto the vast New Mexico plains. We had a 14 miles section on I-25 that was covered in debris with plenty of the dreaded "gummies"! "Gummies" are cracks in the road that the DOT has filled with a sort of rubberized caulk. The problem is when the temperature is over 100 (as it was today) the "gummies" get really soft. If you aren't careful they can be very dangerous! After the interstate we toured the backroads into Socorro...not very attractive! I flatted from a steel-belted radial wire I'd picked up on the I-25 leg. We were glad to have the day behind us. Straight to BK for a milkshake...all is good!

Last night's dinner of Steak and Enchiladas. We fight like wild dogs over the sopapilla's and honey!

I had to find a way to use the word "beautiful" and "Moriarty,NM" in the same sentence!

"da da dada da...da da!! Greeeeen Acres is the place to be. Faaarm livin' is the life for me" Land spreadin' out so far and wide...keep Manhattan just give me that country side"!

"Hello, Prudential...I'd like to see that 5 billion acres of completely treeless prairie land you have listed outside beautiful Moriarty New Mexico!"

probably looked like this 100 years ago!

Team Time Trial...screaming across the prairie!

rolling towards Mountainaire,NM

the vast nothingness of the prairie

Craig, Chip and me...taking the bus!

The Outreach ladies! Thanks for the lift!

dropping down into the plains of New Mexico

rollin' towards Socorro

last week...out of boredom...I started dragging my camera thru the wildflowers. Today, I drug it thru the wheat-like grasses.
Trying to stay in touch with my creativity!

Cow? I didn't see a thing for 20 miles!

today's team time-trial participants...Craig & Chip.

folks out here in the west tend to save everything they've ever owned! Desert dwellers are a little odd.

this road is actually part of the river. When it rains this section is completely under water. They just come thru and scrape away the mud...and the road is back in business. Glad it was dry today!

NM 408...not the most scenic road we've traveled!

Day 15 Espanola,NM to Moriarty,NM 101 miles 5000' climbing

2008-08-12T15:32:00.000-07:00

We were all pretty glad to get out of Espanola! Not on our favorites list!

The morning weather was great...but, no sign of the expected tailwind! The middle 50 or so miles on Route 14 south were very familiar to me because I traveled that route (in the opposite direction) during last years LA to Boston. It was much more fun going north. Check out Day 8 in the archive: http://davidacrossamerica.blogspot.com . Today's long climb up to and past Madrid was steep and hot. Last May, I flew thru there at 45mph...and it was about 65 degrees.

Craig and I stayed together most of the day. Chip rode off solo on the long hill into Madrid...and ended up getting lost! He ended up with about 20 "bonus miles". We watched a simple cloud turn into a big nasty storm before our eyes! It was pretty scary. When the lightning started we rolled into the first safe place we could find...a school. Heavy rain and hail, kept us there for about 1/2 hour. The rest of the way into Moriarty was dry...and clearing. We had some crazy looking lady drive beside us today and ask for directions to Roswell,NM. The first thing that came to mind was: "why don't you send an atomic flare back to the mother ship and ask them?" I do know when to keep my mouth shut!

Not much in Moriarty. It's really not much more than a freeway exit with the usual TacoBell/KFC combo, McD's and a huge fireworks store advertising M60's. Anyone have a toilet that needs to be blown up? (not that I'd know anything about that event!!!) Looks like Mexican again tonight...not at Taco Bell...there's an actual Mexican (crossed fingers) Restaurant in town. Wish me luck! I think Montezuma was a really cool dude (karma)!

It's always fun when something happens to throw us off our game. Dodging the storm, or hiding out in the school make the ride more interesting! I love being out and exposed to nature like this. If you are in a car..it's just not the same experience!

Sure do miss my beautiful wife! Just a few more days. Love you Kates!

A pretty typical house in Espanola,NM. Not the most beautiful city we've visited!

I love these produce signs....just don't get to shoot them very often.

These guys could use a visit...or 20!

Last night's dinner didn't stand a chance. We ate at Peragua in Espanola. It's a famous place...housed in a very old Hacienda building with a tree growing out of the middle. Really cool interior.

Camel Rock

we passed thru a very expensive neighborhood outside Santa Fe. Hard to see the houses.

unless, of course, they are wearing lycra shorts, a colorful jersey and are carrying a bike...

Once we turned south on Route 14...we were backtracking my route from last year's LA to Boston. At Rob's request I yelled out "sho am good!!!" It was much more fun coming up from the south. I remember screaming thru Madrid at 45mph. This time I was barely making 7mph....uphill.

Tiny Town...as we enter Madrid. It's a very quirky little town. Seems to have done well since the movie "WILD HOGS" was made a couple years ago.

Maggie's Diner....from the John Travolta, William H. Macy movie "WILD HOGS" which was shot in Madrid, NM.

Madrid mailboxes

I thought this was some weird sculpture at first. It's a lady tending her bees.

The "Kicking Ass Ranch"...it's for sale!

looking back towards Madrid..."Wild Hogs...let's roll!!!"

Here's the new computer. Check out the temp. Disregard the speed...it was a 10 mile climb out of Madrid. I was "pacing myself"...ha!

today's infinity road

this is how the nasty storm we got caught in looked about an hour earlier. Pretty wild out here!

This was one nasty 15% grade hill. Of course...right after lunch!

we watched this little rain shower blow up into one nasty rain,hail & lightning storm. We had to "hunker down" in an Elementary School.

Craig...leading us thru the storms.

You've got to really like living in the middle of nowhere...to live in the middle of nowhere!

Some spectacular prairie storms today!

Day 14 Chama,NM to Espanola,NM 82 miles 2300' climbing

2008-08-11T14:37:00.000-07:00

Another spectacular day! It looks like our timing was perfect. The big heat wave in the Southwest has been replaced with slightly cooler temps...and the rains have moved east. Hopefully, we can get to El Paso before another front come thru! I hate riding in the rain.

Chama was at 7800'...the highest we've stayed during the trip. Espanola is at 5800'....and I can already tell the difference.
The last few days of climbing it's been hard to drink as every sip means a missed breath. One missed breath at 9000+' feels like you've held your breath for 2 minutes! Take a long sip and you almost pass out!

The day started with bacon and eggs in the parking lot. It's a bit like musical chairs. Everyone lingers about trying to look disinterested...until Sue announces breakfast is open. Then it's an "every man for himself" scramble to get to the food.

Today's route was a straight shot down to Espanola...downhill most of the way with a much deserved tailwind! Chip, Craig and I made easy work of it today. Craig hammers the downhills...Chip hammers the long climbs...and I keep us moving on the flats! We're a good team!

We're working from the Cyber Cafe across from the hotel...so tonight is a short version. Off to Moriarty, NM tomorrow where I will intersect the route I took during last year's LA to Boston trip. Should be a nice day!

Dining options are pretty limited in Chama....this one was closed!

this one too....

And the winner is....High Country Restaurant. Great fajitas and salsa so hot it would remove chrome from a trailer hitch! I put some on the first fajita and the heat lasted well into the third!

If "TG" had been open...I'd have gotten a cut!

Sunset thru a Chama dust cloud!

Craig begins the long roll down to Espanola. With a light tailwind and only a few short hills it was a super easy day. We earned it!

Butte or Mesa? We're checking Wikipedia...stay tuned!

Great road all the way to Espanola

another infinity road!

looking back at Craig.

Pretty spectacular scenery today!

looking back at Chip. He's begging me to slow down...yeah, right!!!

rolling along the Rio Chama River which flows into the Rio Grande River...all the way down to El Paso!

fill those water bottle up boys....."U-Famous"!!!

pepper wreaths at the local market in Espanola

The CyberCafe Rats!

Day 13 Durango,CO to Chama,NM 121 miles 9200’ climbing

2008-08-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

Spectacular weather greeted us as we rolled out of Durango this morning…for the last of 3 very long mileage days with close to or over 9000+’ of climbing. We are all pretty tired!

My legs felt pretty good at the start, but by the first set of climbs…I was feeling the previous two days effort. Yesterday’s climbing was mostly 3 long passes of 10-14 miles in length. Today was all rollers…the entire 121 miles to make up 9200’ of climbing. It got pretty brutal. It would be like doing 121 miles worth of loops at Grassy Lake, Buckhill and the backside of Sugarloaf Mountain! All at around 7500’ in altitude.
My little sea-level lungs are really working hard. We rolled south for about 30 miles to Ignacio and then back north towards Paragosa Springs. Tailwind, followed by headwind…then some pretty brutal headwinds the last 30 miles. It was a spectacular day to be out on the bike…but I sure am glad to be off of it! Just beat a pretty strong band of rain as I rolled into the motel….The Branding Iron…sounds painful!

Craig is still battling some congestion…but rode strong all morning. Chip…well, Chip is from another planet! The boy just ain’t right! He tolerated our healthy pace into lunch, then dispatched Craig and I about a mile into the only really long climb of the day! We never saw him again! I’m beginning to feel worthless and weak!

Passed a ton of really beautiful horse farms and ranches and rolled thru the small town of Paragosa Springs. Paragosa was a really nice little town. It’s Sunday…so not much was open.

The Chama Days Festival is wrapping up in the field right next the Branding Iron. Think I might mosey over there and check out the big “Turkey Leg” sign. See if they got any left-overs…ha!

Tomorrow’s a recovery day…75 miles 2000’ of climbing…billed as mostly downhill into Espanola,NM. I need an easy day!

Hanging out on the patio at Serious Texas BBQ last night in Durango. The nicest dining experience we've had...and really great food!

the morning's roll thru the farmlands outside Durango

The Ute Indian Casino. We rolled about 20 miles into the high desert...and there it was. Absolutely nothing else around! Sorry "Pugs"...it's still under construction. Next time I see if I can turn a $20 into $40!

rolling north towards Paragosa Springs

I got to ride with Lon Haldeman (co-owner of PACtour)...and winner of Race Across America in 1983. He's got great stories having been in the bike tour business for over 10 years! Plus, he's a great draft!

road scene

Man...they grow some nasty wasps out this way. The little bugger hit me just as we hit a long,fast downhill...and wouldn't let go! I couldn't let go of the handlebars for about a minute. Dang, that hurt...still does! The swelling is now gone!

Passed some really nice ranches and farms today! This one along the Piedra River.

most of today's route was lined with these yellow flowers. Pretty cool against that magnificent New Mexico sky!

the long headwind section into Chama

Passed the Continental Divide...again. We've given up thinking that means it's all downhill from there...it's NOT!

Welcome to Chama!

Day 12 Montrose,CO to Durango,CO 115 miles 9200’ climbing

2008-08-09T19:35:00.001-07:00

Today was pretty magical! I was really surprised I climbed so well today. Yesterday’s ride took a lot out of me…and tomorrow is no cake walk! Just kept turning the pedals…trying not to focus on the summit. Now, if I could just descend like the other maniacs I am riding with I wouldn’t be riding alone so much!

The weather in the mountains of Colorado can be very unpredictable. We rolled south out of Montrose with a clear blue sky…but as we approached the base of the first climb the sky was looking threatening. We rolled thru the old mining town Ouray, which was actually pretty cool! A wide Main Street with lot’s of vintage architecture…completely surrounded by the mountains. I’m sure this place was pretty wild back in “the days”!
Soon after we cleared town and started the long climb up to Red Mountain Pass at 11,000+ , Chip decided to go all Carlos Sastre on us! He was gone! I reached the summit and then the old mining camp…and as I turned the corner noticed a flagman had held up Chip and a few others (all considerably better climbers than me!) for some road work.
I was back on! We had another 1000’ of climbing and then a monster descent into the valley. Soon I was alone again. These guys are crazy! Plus…I have to stop and take photos so you can see what it all looks like…right?

Next up was Silverton for our lunch SAG. What I had always envisioned the classic Western town to look like. Steam locomotive, great vintage western architecture, and hundreds of tourists! Most take the steam train up from Durango. Straight out of lunch it was another climb up to Molas Pass…I hate to eat and climb! Some of the most spectacular scenery ever! And roads like velvet!

With all the trauma with the bike yesterday…I really needed some time alone today!
It was really pretty amazing out there! I rolled the 35 miles from Coal Bank Pass at 10,640’ into Durango by myself. Made a stop at the local bike shop for a new computer…and grabbed some great BBQ across the street at “Serious Texas BBQ”.

Tomorrow is another long day with just short of 9000’ of climbing down to Chama,NM.

Colorado was really beautiful!

There’s been a lot of commotion about Fat Tire beer lately. I must admit…I’m a convert to the “Tire”!

rolling out of Montrose with the day’s climbing on the horizon

this must be one of the most scenic RV parks on the planet!

I knew he had a window on Main Street,,,but his own State Park? And who knew he had the nickname “Dutch Charlie” (inside joke to Disney folk)

here they come…

as we passed…she yelled out what sounded like: “Keyes…I’m gonna kick your butt!”

Joel and Chip dodging tourists in Ouray!

Ouray from above…no helicopters!

Heading for Red Mountain Pass

about ½ way up to the first pass, Lon was by the road to take photos. Thanks for the pic!

some pretty shear drop-offs today!

roads like silk!

Matt from Seattle…passing me…again! He is absolutely fearless on the descents!

The Red Mountains

Old mining cabins near the summit

I made it!!

and then…the pay-off for all that climbing!

Beautiful downtown Silverton,CO

believe me…I gave this plenty of thought. It would have been so much easier to take the train down to Durango! Though not nearly as satisfying!

Looking back at Silverton. Immediately following lunch we started this climb up to Molas Pass at around 11000’. Climbing on a full stomach is not fun!

descending from Molas Pass

Last big climb of the day…

for my horse lover! Some little ones, too!

Port-a-potty study #2

Epic Day...this is just a teaser!

2008-08-09T16:51:00.001-07:00

Sorry...today was really long and we crossed over 11,800 feet a few times before reaching Durango. I need food!

More pix will be posted later!

Some truly epic descents today!

2008-08-08T20:32:00.000-07:00

Day 11 Grand Junction,CO to Montrose,CO 118 miles 7300' climbing

2008-08-08T19:28:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day I have had any technical problems with the bike! Yesterday's heavy rain and the ultra-fine grit that came off the road and coated everything didn't help! First, I noticed my computer was not working. Then, it started working...but was not giving me accurate readings! 95 miles per hour on a 3% upgrade....I don't think so! The speedometer not working isn't a huge problem. A bigger concern is not having a working odometer! All of our directions are based on mileage.
I got separated from the group on the climb today and had to ride solo for about 40 miles...hoping I wasn't going the wrong way or had missed a turn! Next up was a new "creak" coming from my frame. Lon was great...taking everything apart to find the source of this obnoxious "creak". No luck. It drove me crazy all day! It may very well drive me crazy until next Saturday!
Chip suggested I just get an ipod and crank up the volume!

Today's route was pretty tricky with about 20 turns! We started out of Grand Junction rolling thru neighborhoods and then thru the groves and orchards that surround the city. A few miles on I-70 and we turned south towards Grand Mesa...passing the Powderhorn Ski Area on our 22 miles climb over the pass. That was my first time at 10,000+' without a pressurized cabin and a stewardess! As I pulled out of the secong SAG, there was a bear and her cub that came bumbling out of the forest in front of me. I reached for my camera and stopped pedaling, The sound of my freewheeel scared them off before I could get a shot. Still pretty cool (and a bit scary) to see them! Chip continues to rack up KOM points! Never saw him again after the road turned up! Craig's got a new bug working and was just behind me...until we got the to descent! He is fearless...I'm a big baby!

After the descent we had lunch in Delta,CO. The road into Montrose was pretty rough and we were ready for the day to be over. Especially, with rain showers just beyond town.

Tomorrow is another big climbing day...thru Silverton down to Durango, CO. Hoping my bike problems can get worked out.

Having trouble with i-access again tonight! I'll try to add a few more pics tomorrow.

Hey kids...looks like there's some climbing in our future!

One of several beautiful canyons we rolled thru.

and another!

Seems my computer got whatever "virus" had infected Puddy's last week. Notice my current speed is reading 95mph...and my top speed is recorded at 140.92mph! Wow!

Looking back toward Grand Junction from Grand Mesa...at around 8400'.

The wildflowers are really beautiful up here! They don't get to show off for long!

this place can get pretty rough if the weather is bad! Thankfully, we beat the rains today.

at around 10,000' there were several of these spectacular meadows...absolutely overflowing with wildflowers!

on the way down into the valley towards Montrose. This shot doesn't do the scene much justice! It was really pretty spectacular to look out onto such an immense valley ringed in mountains.

a bit further down...looking towards Montrose and the mountains we climb tomorrow!

Craig up ahead! This is about how much time he makes up on me during the descents! It took me 1/2 hour to catch him!

the farmlands leading into Montrose.

Day 10 Rangely,CO to Grand Junction,CO 91 miles 4000’ climbing

2008-08-07T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today’s weather was good…followed by terrible! The morning was warm and I rolled out without arm or leg warmers for the first time! Thankfully, I had a vest and arm warmers with me because our good weather luck was coming to an end! The first 20 miles out of Rangely were nothing special. We gat a bit of excitement at around miles 35 when we had to wait for some road work. In these parts they use “chip n’ seal” as the road surface. Basically, they spray the road with hot liquid tar and then coat it in a very fine gravel! It’s a very messy business and doesn’t mix well with cycling. The Flagman held us until we had most of the group together…then escorted us the 6 or so miles past the road work. It was fun to have the road to ourselves. Next up was a nice long climb…followed by a 12 mile descent of almost 3000’. The descent was pretty hairy!
Neither Chip or I like to bomb the downhills! Craig goes into full-on aero tuck and rarely touches the brakes!! I’ve given myself a new Indian name…”Descends like your Grandma”! I also have to stop for pictures along the way…at least that’s one of the many excuses I use! When I finally hit the valley floor…and the safety of reasonably level pavement…Chip was gone! It had also started to pour rain. Craig had passed me about ¾ of the way down and was still in sight…Mark, Cat and the Team Slausan were just ahead. I worked hard to get back onto them and then get back to Craig. Craig and I worked trying to get back to Chip…but he was over a mile ahead by the time we hit the flatlands. Chip’s bad luck with flats continued at the top of a climb. Craig and I decided to wait for him and roll into lunch together again! The rain continued…so we lingered over hamburgers and pie! The rains finally let up on the final 20 miles into Grand Junction. We rolled thru some beautiful cornfields and horse farm country. It took over an hour to get my bike cleaned! My body was equally filthy!
Unfortunately, there was a “housekeeper shortage” at the motel…so we couldn’t get into our rooms until 4:30. After a shower...the world is good!

Visit beautiful Rangely, CO...."where there is absolutely nothing to do"!

Waiting for our escort!

Craig leading us past the new lane of "chip & seal"

Most of the group making it's way thru the road work. We had to chase the escort truck. Not sure he realized we were riding bikes...not driving Ferrari's!

Looking back down at the first section of the climb. The "group" was no longer! Lot's of carnage going up the hill today!

That road down there is where we are headed!

about 1/2 way thru the descent! Yes, I stopped to shoot this! Sacrificing for my art!

NOT what you want to see when you are flying downhill at 45mph! I still yell out "mornin" cow"!

about 3/4 of the way down as it started to rain. Pretty spectacular!

clear of the rain...and into the flatlands!

great road for a bit of time-trialing in an attempt to bring back Chip!

Mark from Belgium closing the gap (with ease) to Craig and I. It was a fun day!

The elusive Wayne Riley! Wayne rides completely solo each day. We often see him at the start...and not again until we reach the hotel. Even on the long days he goes back out for extra mileage.

thru the cornfields and into Grand Junction

Jon "the masseuse". He wears these slippers (not cycling shoes!!) all day...that's why he won the freaky tan line competition!
He often rides out early and marks the course for us with a "P" and an arrow!

Day 9 Vernal,UT to Rangely,CO 52 miles 2000' climbing

2008-08-06T18:18:00.000-07:00

Today was a super easy recovery ride. The perfect compliment to yesterday's "climb-fest". Weather was warm and overcast with a very slight drizzle. Welcome after 8 straight days of sunshine. We're all hoping the heat-wave that has engulfed the southwest moves on by next week!

The good news is our buddy Craig is back in the saddle! Not that he slacked off yesterday...riding 120+ of the 151 mile route. He hadn't really eaten anything for two days due to a stomach bug! He is one tough hombre! Craig, Chip and I rolled easy over to Rangely,CO today. PAC still had two (2) SAG's along the way...so we laughed each time we saw them and yelled out: "hey look boys....it's time to eat again!!". This was a 52 mile ride! Finished off with a picnic-style lunch in the park! Rangely is a really small oil town with a two block Main Street, consisting of liquer (5) and hardware stores and a Subway. There was a fresh peaches sign that caught my eye. I never knew Colorado was known for peaches! They were really good! Dinner choice tonight was one of two restaurants in town...Mexican (I don't think so) ...so we settled on Italian at Giovanni's. Actually, pretty good...and packed with locals.

Sorry this is so late. It seems these motels/hotels have some pretty narrow bandwidth on their i-access. When we all try to push photos and emails at the end of the day the system slows to a crawl and then , as it did tonight, just shuts down. I ran back from dinner to beat the "pixel rush hour"! Here ya go!

today’s route to Rangely,CO

I figured it was time for me to brighten up the high desert! If you think the photos are looking too lonesome…I hope this helps!

It’s “Flower time” for my beautiful wife! I sure do miss you!

Craig…back in the saddle again! He put a hurtin’ on us in the City Limit sign sprint this morning. Good to have him back!

The gang makes it to Colorado!

“90”…he doesn’t look a day over 50 ¾!

for my horse lover!

the street signs in the “city” on Dinosaur, Colorado

Hmmmm? This could make a very interesting discussion.

John enjoying one of Sue’s now famous rootbeer floats!

The Freaky Tan Line feature!

2008-08-06T13:45:00.002-07:00

Just over one week into the trip and the tan lines are getting pretty freaky!

Here's a little gallery from head to toe!

Day 8 Evanston,WY to Vernal,UT 151 miles 8900' climbing

2008-08-05T18:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Uintah County Library...my only option for internet connection tonight! This will be short because they close early!

Awesome day! Chip and I pushed pretty hard, trading off our strengths: Chip+climbing...me+flats. It was a great pairing for the day! Lot's of very painful and long climbs...like I have NEVER done before. The legs are feeling strong. My head is a different story. I get a crushing headache above 5000'...always have. Going to 8800 today, I could really feel it. I've been taking a couple "vitamin I" (ibuprofen), before I roll out...didn't do much to knock it out today!

Another beautiful day! See captions...I gotta go!

Get to sleep in as tomorrow is an easy day! There's also a big breakfast in my future!

Last night's Prairie Motel...nice, eh?

Good morning interstate!

Not how I was hoping to start my day.

You want these things pointing at you! Thankfully, there wasn't much wind when we passed. Our plan has been to go hard early and get as close to the finish as possible before the winds pick up!

road scene

Chip...pretending to struggle early. He absolutely crushed me in the hills today! KOM Points leader...by a mile!

Road scene #2..entering dinosaur graveyard country!

this is what I stare at all day!

hangin' in Lonetree!

This kid and his dad went flying by on a 4-wheeler. Seems their trailer had blown a tire about 3 miles down the road!
He sure seemed to be having fun!

road scene #3

site of the 1825 settler rendezvous!

road scene #4

dropping into the Flaming Gorge (gorgeous!)

30? I wish. I started at the same level as the lake! I was lucky to hold 7mph!

clearly gassed at the top! I had hoped to stop and get Katie more flowers today....sorry babe, I was in survival mode! Sure do miss you!

On the way up 8800', Chip and I were laughing about the diarretic cows. Evidence of their "condition" was scattered all over the shoulder we ride on. About 3 miles into the climb...I found what looks like the culprit!

Dear Rancher, please give cow #100 some Imodium AD!

Me at 8800'...trying to mask a screaming headache!

Our final descent was close to 8 miles long...with 10 tight switchback turns. Chip and I are both fearful of bombing the descents. He flatted in this very scenic spot near the bottom. It was about 100 degrees!

Day 7 Montpelier, ID to Evanston, WY 94 miles 2700' climbing

2008-08-04T15:17:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful day! Unfortunately, Craig was suffering from a stomach bug that got worse as the day progressed. He toughed it out and made it to the hotel in Evanston. I've got him on some electrolytes and pretzels. Hope he's good to go for tomorrow!

A bit chilly at the start in Montpelier...but it warmed to over 90 by the time we finished in Evanston.
The first part of the day we rolled thru grass and farm lands flanked by barren sagebrush hills. We also passed Bear Lake that stretched to our east for about 10 miles. I think the beach at Bear Lake is the closest thing to the ocean for folks living in Wyoming. There were plenty of really nice homes up on the hill overlooking the lake...but very little in the way of a "town" or restaurants/nightlife. I guess you fish, drink beer and pass out!

Had a nasty little climb out of the valley and then into the barren prairie again. Pretty bleak for about 40 miles! The approach into Evanston was mostly industrial services and not very pretty. Chip and I were early for check-in, so we went into town and searched for a milkshake spot! Had a chocolate malted that was really awesome! The we rolled over to Subway for a bit of lunch. Chip doesn't eat much at the SAG's...so it gives me an extra opportunity to "feed"!

Tomorrow is close to 150 miles with just short of 10K' of climbing...ouch!

My new favorite milkshake maker, Lyndsie! I asked which malted she liked...and that's what she made me. She scooped about 4 different icecreams into the mixer and threw in a few cookies and some chunks of chocolate. Awesome!

"Custom"?

Downtown Montpelier. Not exactly bustling!

This is an actual size re-creation of a bear that terrorized the ranchers around Montpelier in the 40's!

The state car of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. Affectionately referred to as the "F-350000"!

This morning's prairie homesite

Not THAT Paris!

Joshua, touring solo! He left San Francisco where he lives...rode north to see his girlfriend in Seattle...and is now heading to Albuquerque to see his folks! Then he'll turn around and ride back to San Fran!

The homes on the hill overlooking Bear Lake!

Back onto the prairie

The Bear Lake Monster...finally captured!

Port-a-potty study #1

Up we go!

That was NOT fun! And it's getting HOT!

More prairie bleakness!

These old settler homes are scattered across the prairie! Makes you realize how hardy they must have been!

This one is for the Eagle girls!

OK...there was "a" cloud in the sky today!

Chip and I rollin' across the prairie!

Today's lunch SAG location

The photo biz ain't so good in these parts!

10-4!

Last night's dining option...nice! I opted for breakfast figuring that would be pretty hard to screw up!

Lothar chowin' on some ribs! Or...are those dinosaur bones?

Not sure what this means?

The "Contest"!

2008-08-04T05:47:00.001-07:00

By request...it's time to reveal the owner of your favorite legs!

#1 Andrew
#2 John
#3 Craig
#4 Joel
#5 Ruth!!!
#6 me
#7 Chip

Thanks for playing! Gotta go feed my face then roll on to Evanston, WY. Looks like another beautiful day for climbing!

Day 6 Jackson Hole, Wy to Montpelier, ID 117 miles 3400' climbing

2008-08-03T16:08:00.000-07:00

I've got to come up with a new way to start these posts....I've worn out "another spectacular day"! That's what it was!
We rolled out of Jackson Hole a little later today because of the reduced mileage. The first 8 miles or so we rode on Jackson Hole's cycling path. It's wide and nicely paved, with plenty of small hills, dips and turns...fun! We followed Hoback River for the next 30 or so miles...until our first rest stop. We had a fairly large pack today because of the downhills. Neither Craig or I are comfortable around a large group, so we short-stopped the first rest and set off alone. At some point I joked that Chip would catch us. Within 10 miles...there he was, flying by with the Slauson boys (a father & son team) on his wheel. He worked really hard to make the catch. We short-stopped rest #2 and the 3 of us rolled on towards Montpelier. Chip and Craig are monster climbers! They easily gain 1/2 mile on me over a 2 mile climb. They're also nice enough to wait for me at the top...knowing I also stop to take pictures that will immortalize their feats of strength...ha! The last big climb was especially long and nasty! It just kept going up! As we descended (and about 5 miles from Montpelier) we ran into road work. The entire road surface had been stripped to gravel. While Craig rolled ahead to check if we could ride thru it...I canvased the waiting trucks to see if one would let us jump in for a lift to the other side. Craig report was not good...lot's of loose gravel! So, into the truck we went. These guys were really nice. They were returning from a few days of hunting with their horses (in the trailer) and 3 vintage flintlock rifles! One of which we discovered was still bundled up in the stuff we were sitting on in the truck bed. Thanks for the lift guys! Back on the road and straight to the local Huckleberry milkshake vendor! I'll miss huckleberries!!!

we started the day on the Jackson Hole cycling trail

The road along the Hoback. You can see the size of the group ahead.

The Hoback River

Mini Moo #2 (with some help from photoshop!)

Proof that we are now officially "in-Thayne"!

along the Salt River

That...is a lot of hay!

Would love to read the real estate description on this place: unique hilltop location, no noisy neighbors, 360 degree views, gets pummeled by prairie winds from every direction!

Downtown Afton...and the World's Largest Antler Arch...yeehaa!

Mr. Cinematography...Chip!

into the valley!

for my horse lover!

Me...not having fun on the climb!

3 miles at 7%...me likey!

Looking back at Craig and Chip

Great roads....very little traffic!

The gang made it to the border!

Up...up...up!

That was a nasty climb!

Craig and Chip hanging on for dear life! Sure beat riding a couple miles on that gravel! We'll make up the missed (2) miles tomorrow!

Chip and I ridin' shotgun!

Day 5 West Yellowstone to Jackson Hole,WY 135 miles 4500' climbing

2008-08-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

Today was absolutely EPIC!!! Definitely THE best day on the bike I have ever had!

Lon gave us all the option of an alternative route today...through Yellowstone National Park! Same miles...same climbing. The only difference would be that we would be without support as the vans would only be able to support the normal route. I've worked inside Yellowstone and knew this was the route for me. I'd always wondered what it would be like to ride your bike thru there. It was way better than I had expected. At the ride start there were only a handful of people who decided to ride thru Yellowstone. Some scared off by Saturday RV traffic...some just wanting to do the normal route. Craig and I were all set. I stocked up on Clif Shots and Clif Bloks...because we'd have to get the 135 miles to Jackson on our own. I knew there were stretches of road close to 40 miles without any services at all. At 6:30 sharp...we rolled! It was magical riding thru those valleys
as the sun was rising. By the time we reached the first geysers at Paint Pot...the sun was up! We made a Clark Griswald-style tourist stop at Old Faithful...which was barely bubbling! Got water at the store and headed south. Our goal was to get to Dornan's at HWY89 and Jenny Lake Rd for lunch. I was a man on a mission! Craig is super smooth and the two of us made great time. We entered the park at 6:40A via the West Yellowstone gate...and exited the South Gate at exactly 10:59AM! Not bad considering the big climbs we had!

The much rumored RV traffic was hardly a factor. Everyone gave us plenty of room! The roads were in spectacular shape...at least until we got into Teton National Park, where we had to take the lane as the shoulder was pretty beat up.

Finally got cell service as we reached Dornan's in Moose Junction...on what I have been referring to as the AT&T "no-GO Phone". It was great to talk to her! Miss you babe! Lunch was awesome! I had venison sausage on pasta with a curry sauce...and Craig had a chicken salad and a calzone...hey, we burned about 8K calories today! People are always fascinated with what we are doing. It's great fun to watch the look on their faces when you tell them you started the day 130 miles to the north!

The final few miles into Jackson Hole run along the base of the Tetons and has to be one of the most spectacular rides you can do!

Enough of the report...let's look at some photos...shall we! There is so much beauty in this world...and I am extremely fortunate to be able to see it...and be in it! Oh...and if you are sitting at a desk in an office: please accept my apologies for the first photo! Crazy isn't it!

The pic of the day!!

a deserted West Yellowstone as we rolled out!

Craig...leading the way!

approaching Paint Pot Geysers

Craig and I on a new training regimine! We call it..."The Sulfur Workout". Pick a really long route that passes by bubbling pots of primordial goo...it's a little tough to breathe. Don't even get me started about the National Parks bathrooms!

at the tragically underwhelming Old Faithful..."back in the car kids...we're off to Wally World"!

Well stocked for anything the wilderness can throw at me...thanks to the fine folks at Clif Bar (and Rocco)! Nothing say's Yellowstone like Mango flavored Clif shots!

Craig and I take a photo break at the top of the "divide". Sadly, it was not all downhill from there!

Yellowstone traffic jam...all for two Elk about 1/2 mile away! Thankfully, it was a slow day for wildlife. Neither of us was relishing the thought of a bear, moose, bison, wild badger encounter...without the safety of a car!

Downhill toward the Tetons

good timing! I'm getting hungry!

WOW!

Craig and I entering the Tetons

Pano towards the Tetons

rollin down the 89 into Jackson

does this man look happy?

Craig rolling on the Jennie Lake Rd...Tetons behind!

what's left of my lunch and the fine view from Dornan's porch

Now....that's a sky!

Andrew digs American BBQ!

There was a motorcycle festival going on in Jackson Hole over the weekend. Harley's everywhere!

Having fun with technology! There's a webcam on Town Square in Jackson Hole...so we decided to look it up on Joel's iPhone. Voila...there we were...standing next to the famous Antler Arch! The things we do to kill time out here....

Day 4 pics...finally!

2008-08-02T14:49:00.001-07:00

Farm scene leaving Bozeman

Hey WChioji…does this bike look familiar? It belongs to Lil Pluke. She is along on this tour with her son, Raymond, and would love to se you. We leave Montpelier,ID on the morning of Monday, August 4…headed to Evanston, WY. Bring the RodFather!

Our version of Merkat Manor...waiting to cross the road!

We had a tough decision to make today…either ride “in” the road, or stay to the right of the rumble strip. As you can see there’s not much room there! You’re tax dollars hard at work!

Today's lunch by the Gallatin River: grilled bratwurst, pasta salad, broccoli and tomatoes

Today’s group: me, Andrew, Allen, Ruth and Craig

Thanks for taking our pic Biker Dude!

Rolling along the Gallatin River

Huckleberry shake...for Sheepman! It was mighty tasty!

One last pic...then I've got 135 miles to ride to Jackson

2008-08-02T04:14:00.000-07:00

Andrew’s friend in Australia asked a question about a certain riders legs.
Since we’re starting to run out of stuff to report on…I thought it would be fun to have a little contest. Please vote for your favorite legs. This’ll be fun!

AAARGH...still no luck uploading!

2008-08-02T04:00:00.001-07:00

The connection out of here is really bad! I'll try again when I get into Jackson Hole this evening.

Here's the only shot that I could post! It took 10 minutes!

Day 4 Bozeman to West Yellowstone 91 miles 4000' climbing

2008-08-01T16:54:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful weather day! We backtracked about 8 miles to the west out of Bozeman and then head due south to West Yellowstone…along the Gallatin River.

The Gallatin River is spectacular! Unfortunately, it also flows to the north…which means out entire ride today was uphill! The uphill route combined with a steady 20-25mph headwind made what was originally billed as a relatively easy “recovery ride”…a bit of a battle! At times we struggled to make 12mph! Andrew, Craig and I rode together most of the day. We’re a good fit…safe and steady! Ruth and Allen joined in for the last 50 miles or so…we needed all the help we could get!

Riding along the river and into the northern fringes of Yellowstone National Park was pretty spectacular! Got to see the occasional fly-fisherman and a few river raft tours (America on vacation). Other than that…no wildlife today! The meadows are filled with wildflowers this time of year and that makes the air smell really fresh.

I’ve worked within most areas of the park…and often wondered what it would be like to ride your bicycle through it. Tomorrow, I’ll find out!

Blogger's server is not working...so I'll try to upload photos after dinner.

Day 3 Butte to Bozeman, MT 101 miles 4200' climbing

2008-07-31T15:05:00.000-07:00

Same spectacular weather today. Starting out from Butte it was around 40 degrees (I don't do cold!)...then up to the high 70's again as we reached Bozeman. I'll take 16 more of these please!

Only 101 miles to cover today so we got to sleep in until 6A. 10 miles in and we started a long climb out of Butte...that served as the perfect "warm up" for the day. A long stretch thru the stunningly beautiful high plains was followed by the perfect lunch along the Madison River. This is Lewis & Clark territory. It's amazing they managed to survive out here! The river is now a favorite "tubing" destination. We ate lunch (grilled chicken burritos) as folks floated by...looked pretty cold to me! Had a long 4-5 mile climb before hitting Bozeman.

My training for this ride was very different than the training for last year's LA to Boston. In place of the really long (120 mile+) rides...I stayed with shorter distances (nothing over 105), but at a faster pace. As a result, my legs feel much fresher this year. I've been able to maintain a good pace up all of the climbs and still have good power in the headwinds and on the flats.

Another good group today...though the climbing tends to separate us. Craig (who I found out today happens to be the California State Time-trial champion on tandem...great!) and Chip, are clearly the climbers of the group. Andrew and I are just having fun trying to keep them in sight! Our signature day is still ahead with 146 miles and almost 10K' of climbing...I'm saving myself!

It was another amazing day on the bike!

I've added a link to Chip's blog in my links box to the right. He's quite the cinematographer!

The first of my favorite signs: "Truck on cheese"!! It means a long downhill is coming....weeeeeee!

The drive-up window at the First Gravitational Bank of Montana...and I'm about to make a big withdrawal!!

down we go...

rollin' into the valley..

Chip

"It's high noon...and there ain't enough room around here for you boys. You best be rollin' on!"

I told Craig to go ahead (ha!) so he could "add a sense of scale to this shot"!! You'll have to click on it to see him on the right.

Craig...going up!

Little Houses on the prairie...

Andrew working to keep us in sight of Craig and Chip!

Today's "Prairie Train"...

a lone horse...for my horse lover!

rollin' along the Madison River...

Hey Sheepman...this is for you! That cake was much smaller after I passed thru the line. Come to think of it...the pie was much smaller, too!

Lunch SAG along the Madison

Uh...Andrew, can you save a little sunscreen for the rest of us mate?

Andrew and I rollin' to Bozeman...

It's harvest time...and I complain about having to mow my lawn!

Hmmm...may have to check this place out! I'm sure BunnyHop would have been able to wrangle the Manager for some free grub...just because my name is David!

UPDATE!!! Famous Dave's was fabulous! Just look at all of those awards! Especially loved the "Devil's spit" hot sauce...yummy!

Gearing 101

2008-07-30T18:39:00.000-07:00

There have been a few posts asking for info on my gearing setup. Clearly, not a big concern for my normal Florida flatlands rides.
An entirely different concern for a 19 day, 1900 mile trip with just short of 100K' of climbing!!

My normal setup for Florida is SRAM 10 speed 11-23 rear cassette with a 50/34 compact crank on the front.
For this trip I just changed out the rear cassette...to a 12-25.

Today was our first big pitch and I think I'l be fine. If anything, I was under-geared for the screaming tailwind and 20 mile downhill into Butte. I was spinning out at 34mph. The problem with spinning out is that you can't pedal fast enough...so you have to stop pedaling. That eventually causes your legs to cramp...not good!

I'm not much of bike tech...the simpler the better!

Day 2 Missoula to Butte, MT 137 miles 4100' climbing

2008-07-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful Montana day! Temps in the high 70's and crystal clear. We've gotten to be a pretty tight group now...Andrew, Craig, John, Joel and Chip (until he tires of us and flies up a hill...never to be seen again!). Early on we took a wrong turn. We were running parallel to I-90 with a RR track, a large field and a barbed wire fence between us and the interstate...our intended route! We could see some of the other riders had turned around and were already flying down I-90. We kept going! It was pretty funny when we hit the dead end...just as a mile-long freight train came by. Once it passed we had to climb up and over the tracks (with our bikes)...thru the field...and then squeeze thru a small gap in the barbed-wire fence. Hey...it's an adventure!

I flatted again today..about 200 yds from the Super8 in Butte....aaargh! Other than that...pretty uneventful! Just a ton of fun riding with these guys!

Flowers for my beautiful wife!

Over my shoulder looking back at the group. Notice the Rob Landes signature bandana

Cassie and Andrew at the end of our "wrong turn" this morning!

Andrew is always there to lend a hand...even if it's some sticky barbed-wire!

I-90

Cat and Cassie. I figured I better get a shot of them this morning. When we hit the mountains I'll, likely, never see them again!

Craig and Chip

Rolling into Phillipsburg,MT

Some "puppy love"...sorry Jack!

Today's sandwich creation: Chicken breast with edamame and quacamole, topped with tomatoes and spicy mustard!

After the last major climb we headed downhill for about 20 miles into Butte...with a 20+mph tailwind!! I love doing 32+mph without pedaling!

Big Sky country!

Wisdom to the right....Opportunity to the left. Wouldn't you know it...I'm going straight!

Day 1 Kalispell to Missoula...149 miles, 2300' climbing

2008-07-29T18:45:00.000-07:00

Day 1 was spectacular! Breakfast was at 6AM...and we rolled out at 7AM. It was pretty cold this morning so I had on knee and arm warmers until mile 40. It got close to 90 degrees out there today...but, thanks to all that training in the Florida humidity, I hardly broke a sweat! It was a long mileage day at 149, but not much climbing. Unfortunately, we had a brutal headwind as we traveled south...that switched out of the west as we turned west for Missoula. We were down to 13.5 mph for a long stretch today and still managed an 18.4 mph average. Spent most of the day riding with Craig (my roommate) and Andrew, from Australia. As we approached the lunch stop at miles 80, Craig and I passed a girl (in the middle of nowhere) on a touring bike with panniers. It was clear she'd been on the road a few days. I slowed to ask her where she was headed and she said: "my mother-in-law's house in Seeler Lake". Which happened to be about 20 miles down the road. She passed our lunch SAG and Sue (PACTour co-Leader) yelled out for her to join us for lunch...and she did. It was really fun to hear of her adventures. Natalie (barely 25), lives in Portland...took the train to Whitefish,MT (with her bike and gear) headed to Seeler Lake. When she got into Whitefish she met a guy with a Harley (lot's of them up this way) who offered to take her up to Glacier NP for the day...which she did. When she got back she camped out in Whitefish and met a couple of guys who had a boat and invited her to spend the day on the lake...which she did. Camped in Whitefish again...then headed south to Kalispell where she met a couple who offered to let her stay in their cabin...which she did! We caught up with her on day 3 of her solo bike ride to Seeler Lake.It was pretty amazing to meet someone so at ease in the world...and so confident! The thought of jumping on some guys Harley and heading off into the wilds of Glacier NP...is scary...but impressive!

One of the funniest moments of the day came as we got close to Missoula and got passed by a pretty large group of motorcyclists wearing Hell's Angels "colors". Craig noticed they actually had a "support vehicle"...a pickup loaded with their luggage. Maybe the HA's are getting older!

I also wanted to mention a bit about the makeup of this group. There are 5-6 women along on the trip. Some are riding with their husbands, two of them: Cassie Lowe (2001 & 2002) and Anna "Cat" Berge have WON "Race Across America" (RAAM). Google it! It's the ultimate feat in cycling! Literally, racing from the Pacific to the Atlantic...usually with little or no sleep. These girls both WON the women's division! There are also 6 riders from last years "Elite tour"...which started in San Diego, CA and ended in Tybee Island, SC...17 days later! That's just short of 200 miles per day...every day! Andrew, who I rode with today is one of them.

Two flats today, one front...one rear, have me wondering about my switch from the Conti Gatorskins I rode last year to the Specialized Armidillo's I'm riding this year. If I flat again tomorrow...I'm jumping back to the Conti's.

An amazing day on the bike!

Breakfast...PACTour style! I'd be lying if I didn't admit that I miss the Denny's stops!

Rollin' thru farmlands outside Kalispell

the road along Swan lake

Montana self-portrait #2. Notice I've switched over to clear zinc oxide. Without Rob around to complete the Rodeo Clown troupe...the white zinc oxide just won't work anymore!

Craig climbing thru a toxic cloud of road construction. The tar was so fresh on the right side that we had to ride UK-style for over 4 miles.

Lunch SAG

Today's lunch "creation": whole wheat bread, pepper jack cheese, tomatoes, spicy mustard, pickles and some oriental cole slaw on top...yummy! Oh yeah, a big chunk of chocolate cake! Sheepman, dessert pics tomorrow...I promise!

Natalie and her bike!

Rollin' thru the valley

Along the Salmon River

"Bisti" the SAG dog

Andrew and Craig. Good work today boys!

Along the Blackfoot River near Missoula. Notice the girls tubing on the river. The water is barely 50 degrees!

Riding out of Kalipell

2008-07-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Today's weather is really spectacular! I'm still on Florida time...so I woke up around 5AM. Got a quick coffee and a bagel and hit the road around 7AM. Most of the others were sleeping in so I headed out solo...east out of Kalispell and then south down to Big Fork (insert joke about how much food I eat here!). Great roads with wide shoulders and spectacular scenery...just a glimpse of the beauty to come! Crossed over the Flat Head River and passed wheat fields that stretched to the horizon. A beautiful day on the bike!

The PACTours vans were set up in the parking lot when I got back. They sent a rolling duffle that goes into the van along with a small "stash box", filled with Clif Shots, Clif Blox and Clif Electrolyte mix thanks to my pal Rocco and the king folks at...you guessed it...CLIF Bar!! Computers are stored separately! It all works like a fine-tuned machine.

Had to make a trip to UPS to ship some extra stuff home and get my bike box off to El Paso, then stopped at Sheri's Barbershop for an $8 haircut. It's off to the Pita Pit for lunch!

Crossing the Flathead River

Riding into the early morning sun along Hwy 35

Some really spectacular farmlands!

It was at this moment that I was reminded why I enjoy riding my bike across the USA!

Montana self-portrait #1

Happy Horses for Kates!

Road kill skunk #4

Where your breakfast cereal comes from!

My old pals..."the rumble strips"....are back!

No caption needed!

This one's for Brother "G"

Me and Sheri...nice $8 haircut, eh? She's a bit of a Pack Rat

The PACTour mechanic shop in full-on prep mode!

Welcome to Kalispell !!

2008-07-27T16:17:00.001-07:00

Got into Kalispell around 2P. Aircaddy and bike both survived the FEDEX trip in good shape.
Sunday in Kalispell is pretty slow. There was a small Art Festival near the center of town. If it hadn't been there the place would have been deserted. Except, of course, for the parking lot at the grocery store where it seems every kid in Kalispell between the age of 12 and 19 "hang's out"! Weather is a spectacular 82 degrees. Nights (and mornings) are supposed to get pretty cold. It may take me a few days to figure out my wardrobe choices on the bike. I definitely do not like to ride cold!

Miss you already Kates!

The AirCaddy stashed behind the Travelodge.

The bike...ready to go. The Aircaddy all folded and ready to go!

Have I got a deal for you??!!!

You'll have a "squealin' good time" at the fair!

Cowgirl...Cowboy?

Downtown Kalispel

Hey "Pugs"....a casino!

Bike's away!!!

2008-07-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the day my bike was shipped off to the ride start in Kalispell. Shipping a bike has always been a hassle. There are no shortage of packing options...from the standard cardboard box (which, surprisingly, is how most new bikes are shipped to your local shop) to hard cases that can cost as much as $500. I like my bikes and feel I should do everything I can to keep them safe when they need to travel...but, I'm not spending $500 for a case! Another consideration has always been the disassembly/assembly necessary to fit a bike into a case. Lubricating my chain and changing a tire are about the extent of my mechanical ability!

For last year's LA to Boston trip, I did a good bit of research on shipping options. Finally settling on the AirCaddy. It's a very sturdy triangular-shaped container. Other than loosening the handlebars, taking off the front wheel and removing the seat post....there is no other disassembly required. I drop the rear derailleur just to be safe! This year, they've redesigned the box and gotten an agreement with FEDEX to ship the AirCaddy domestically for $75 (about 1/2 what it cost to ship last year) using Shipbikes.com. And...they'll pick it up at my house! I also like knowing when it gets to Kalispell...thanks to a FEDEX tracking number!

I'll be riding the Kestrel (which I rode on last years La to Boston) until I leave next week. It's been refitted as a timetrial bike more suited for shorter distances. My body is not very happy with a radical change of bike position. Tomorrow's last 100 mile ride will be painful!

Travel safe my friend!

4th of July Weekend...more pics!

2008-07-10T16:41:00.001-07:00

"Downtown" Flagler Beach...a classic Florida beach town!

an early morning surf session at the Flagler Pier

Rolling thru Anastasia Island near St. Augustine

The 3 days of beach riding were solo efforts with the exception of the 10 miles or so I was joined by Mark and Anne. They live in St. Augustine...so this is their daily ride route. They invited me to the Tuesday Night Time Trial...I passed.

The "cutest feet in the world"...Katie's of course!

4th of July Weekend...continued!

2008-07-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

This was my last “block” of training days before Ridge of the Rockies.

The week worked out like this:
Friday 7/4: 90 miles with the “Beach Ride” at moderate~easy pace (19 average)
Saturday 7/5: 78 miles out to Errol and back (20 miles out and back easy at 18mph…the middle 35 miles at 23+ average)
Sunday 7/6: 100 miles out to Windermere and back…in the hills!
Monday 7/7: 60 miles along A1A…St. Augustine to Flagler Beach and back (big chainring efforts 4X20 minutes to help simulate climbing)
Tuesday 7/8: 75 miles along A1A (St. Aug to Ormond Beach and back) as a time trial at 22+ average
Wednesday 7/9: 50 miles along A1A St. Aug to Hammock Dunes and back (big chainring efforts 4X20 minutes to help simulate climbing)

Just over 450 miles this week!! I think my training plan is working!
Each day I felt strong and rested. Riding along A1A is dead flat and not the best training ground for a mountainous route like Ridge of the Rockies. I think the big chainring, solo efforts (into a stiff northeastern headwind for 30+ miles) will really help. This is a big contrast to last year when I was severely over-trained and pretty burnt out from too many long (120 mile +) rides.
I was actually looking forward to each of these rides...where last year I was ready to throw my bike in the trash!

Had a great time at the beach. We cooked, ate (too much), played lot's of cards and got some good rest! Each evening there were storms off to the west that cooled off the temps. It was a really good getaway!

The bridge over Matanzas Inlet...where the Intracoastal Waterway meets the Atlantic!

self-portrait as I rolled into Flagler Beach

my favorite section of the ride!

if you've got to have a beach house...it may as well look like this!

Katie trying to avoid my camera! Going from the air-conditioning to the humid beach air creates some cool special effects!

4th of July!

2008-07-04T19:14:00.000-07:00

I decided to roll out this morning with the "Beach Ride"...headed over to New Smyrna Beach (about 65 miles). Some of them stay overnight and ride back home on Saturday...some meet up with family, enjoy the day at the beach and then hitch a ride home. In true 4th of July fashion there were red,white & blue jerseys and helmets decorated with flags. My plan was to ride about 1/2 way to the beach with the group and then head north around Lake Monroe for 85+ miles. Fortunately, my buddy Butch and a few of his team mates had the same idea. I'm not a big fan of riding solo in the backwoods of Florida.

I'm taking Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday off work next week...so I'll be able to ride 6 days in a row. My last big training week before Ridge of the Rockies!

4th of July Ride Leader Cori sportin' some patriotic helmet decorations!

The group rolling over the St. Johns River. Today's route is obviously pretty flat!

This is Maytown Rd....it runs between Osteen and US1. This road would be really boring if you weren't with a group!

The roads along the north shore of Lake Monroe are really beautiful.

Wednesday nights..."train in the rain"!

2008-06-26T08:26:00.000-07:00

After an extended dry spell here in Florida, we're now back to our usual afternoon thunderstorms. Typically, around 3 in the afternoon we get squeezed between the east and west coast seabreezes that create some rather violent weather conditions! The last two Wednesday night rides have been wet ones. Last week, it was dry until we turned for home with 8 miles to go. Huge raindrops and lightning, coupled with puddles 2-3" deep are not my favorite riding conditions. Yesterday, the rain started earlier than normal. By the time we rolled out at 6P, most of the thunderstorms had passed. The threat of rain, however, chased off all but 6 of us (our normal group is 25-30 strong!). The roads were a bit wet and there were a few brief showers...but, a good trade-off in the temperature department as it was in the high-70's instead of the usual low-90's. It's a rolling course and the wind was pretty fierce. The 6 of us kept up a pretty steady pace and managed to knock out a 24.7 average over the 45+ miles.

One more long weekend in the training log!!

2008-06-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

OK, I'm the first to admit...this blog is getting boring! Each week's training is pretty standard fare...without much to "report" on.
With the Florida State Road Race going on up in Ocala this weekend, the turnout at the Saturday and Sunday rides was pretty small. The smaller turnout and the lack of "racers" gave the rest of us the opportunity to change things up a little. So, instead of doing the usual hammerfest out of Windermere on Sunday, we opted for the slightly longer and flatter Groveland (G-Land) Loop. With a good group, the "G-Land" ride is really a blast. It's super fast and steady. Everyone stops at the 7-11 (some for what seems like an eternity!). Today we had a group of about 7 head out for some extra miles in the hills. Down to 4 of us after the first set of hills and it stayed that way! It was another hot one, which I keep telling myself is good preparation for the last 5-6 days on Ridge of the Rockies when we get into Texas...in August! Got in 105 miles...which included a small detour to Chipotle for a burrito. I really don't eat much during these long rides. I have a big bowl of cereal and a couple egg whites or a hunk of turkey breast before the ride. Then a Gatorade, a banana and a Jocolat (organic fruit & nuts...tasty!) bar...so by the time I get close to home...IT"S TIME TO EAT!! Another thing I learned while training for last year's LA to Boston ride was how to nap! That's where I'm headed!

Saturday ride 6/7

2008-06-07T09:41:00.000-07:00

The big Saturday rides in my area are Lakemont (race weekends*) and Errol Estates (non-race weekends). On Sunday's we head to the west to the hills of Clermont. Today was Lakemont, so we headed east for a 58 mile romp thru what's left of once rural Central Florida farm/horse country. The normal start time is 7:30...and there can be well over 100 people at the start. Due to the popularity of this ride, there are actually 3-4 different "starts"...faster groups out first. There's a small contingent (12 or so) of us now leaving at 7A to avoid the masses. In addition to being much safer, it's summer...and it's hot...so the early start is a bit cooler! We keep a very disciplined paceline with speeds rarely dipping below 25mph. We, typically, average 23+mph over the entire course. Super low-traffic roads and only a few intersections mean we get a really steady workout.

*this weekend was the Stuart Crit Series in South Florida. Next weekend is the (FL) State Road Race in Ocala.

Rolling out at 7AM this morning. Winter Park also has a big runners group that we often share the road with.

The group jammin' into the early morning sun down Lake Pickett Rd.

The "queue line" for the final sprint down Florida Avenue. The field to the right grows some of the finest strawberries on the planet from late-February thru March.

After the 58 mile group ride I do a 20+ mile cool down ride...usually on the trail near my house. Today, I ran into my buddy MStarr so I had some company! Finished the day with 84 miles.

Summer is here!

2008-06-01T15:48:00.000-07:00

Today was a brutally hot 100 miles! Summer is definitely here! We've also had a few wildfires that make it a bit smoky in the morning.

Rolling out to the ride (20 miles) with the usual suspects: Shawn, Robert & Pleasant. During race season most people drive to Windermere for the start. In the winter we can have a dozen or so ride out from Downtown Orlando...or my town, Winter Park.

The group rolls thru Windermere...often close to 100 people at the start.

Memorial Day Weekend training

2008-05-29T18:02:00.000-07:00

Ahh..another of my favorites...the 4-day training block!
My normal week of training looks like this:
* Wednesday Night...45 miles at Mach 2 on a slightly hilly and almost always windy course.
This is THE mid-week ride in my area! (22-24mph average with sections of 30+)
* Friday morning...38 miles fast! A flat multi-lap loop course that brings out a pretty speedy crowd! (20-22mph)
* Saturday...60 or 75 miles depending on the race schedule. Race Weekend: it's a 60 mile loop at LT pace, with a desciplined
paceline. No races: it's a 75 mile race simulation ride over a fairly hill course.
* Sunday...always my long day at 100+. I ride out to Windermere (20 miles) for the signature ride of the week in this area. It's
a huge crowd that breaks into a 1/2 dozen groups. The "racer route" is always fast! The course is tough, taking in
most of the famous "hills" of Florida (they're short, but steep!)
Typically, I ride a 245-265 mile week...every week of the year! Hey, it's Florida!

Memorial Day Weekend was my first chance to ride a 4-day "block". After last years "over-training" debacle in preparation for LA to Boston, I have decided to cut back on my mileage and focus more on quality workouts. Friday, I did the usual route and then added a few more miles for a total of 45 miles. Saturday was 75 miles out to Errol Estates, with a few extra miles tacked on at the end for a total of 92 miles. Sunday was a 104 with the middle 60 miles at race pace with the group. Monday was a moderate group ride with about 100 people. They were going pretty easy and stopping every 20 miles, so a few of us decided to go "off the front" and make a little spicier! Got in just short of 100 miles. Just short of 350 miles total over the 4 days. I'll try to sneak a couple more of these "blocks" in before the end of July. Since most of these miles are being done at close to a 20mph average, knocking out additional miles at "cruiser speed" should be a snap!

This weeks Wednesday Night ride was the hardest ride I've done all year! The wind was fierce out of the east which forces the group into the gutter on the windy stretches. If you're not on your toes...you're done! We started with 35+ and ended up with 4 at the final sprint! I was wiped from just hanging on...having shirked pulls at the front the last 3-4 miles! My legs are toast!

Two weeks in China!

2008-05-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

I've been training really hard since the February break at the beach in anticipation of two weeks off the bike, shooting in China April 17 - April 30. It was a pretty aggressive itinerary: Beijing (Great Wall and Tiananmen Square), Chengdu (Panda Breeding Center), Guilin (Li River and Yangshuo), Shanghai and Hong Kong. Katie and I lived in Hong Kong in the summer of 2005, but, other than her trips to Shenzhen we never made trips into China. China is an amazing place. Bejing is one huge construction project...getting ready for the Olympics in August. Shanghai is flurting with critical mass in regards to people, cars and buildings fighting for what little space is left in this grossly overcrowded city. The countryside in Guilin and the Li River are absolutely breath-taking. Hong Kong is...well, Hong Kong. After close to two weeks in China...it was oddly comforting to get there. A trip to my favorite restaurant at the Peak brought back plenty of memories. Katie and I would sit out on that patio on weekends, enjoying a cheeseburger, fries and the view. It was a long trip...made longer by the fact that I was unable to sleep! By the time I got home (26 hours of flying and layovers) I was thoroughly exhausted. I really missed Katie and was glad to be home.

Shanghai at sunset from above the Bund

Shanghai at sunrise

Li River cormorant fisherman

It was tough to get back on the bike. I still have a bit of respiratory congestion that I refer to as "Hong Kong-fuey". Chalk it up to my wimpy American immune system...unaccustomed to being surrounded by millions of people.

50!!!

2008-04-06T17:07:00.000-07:00

A bit late posting this...

Last Saturday was my 50th birthday. It was a beautiful day!
Started with a nice ride...then a stop at Bikes,Beans & Bordeaux (B3 Cafe) for a post-ride snack and some birthday cake!

Rest...a big part of my new training plan!

2008-03-03T17:12:00.000-08:00

Our favorite beach house became available for 3 weeks...and we took it! It's a magical place where we both feel at peace. Jack loves it too (note the sand on the tongue!)! Puzzles, cards, a stack of good books, fresh seafood and the world's greatest bbq...what more could we ask for?

Even snuck in a few beautiful rides down A1A, squeezed between the sea and the inter-coastal waterway.

The view from the upstairs bedroom

The house!

Our Valentines Day photo!

Jack...the beach dog!

Katie celebrating Leap Year!!

The bike

2008-02-02T13:34:00.001-08:00

On last year's "Fast America" (LA to Boston), I rode my Kestrel Talon rigged with aerobars and a virtually indestructible set of Velocity wheels. It weighed in at just under 20 pounds. Fine for the long haul days without much climbing...but, it was not fun to ride when the road went vertical. Because it's a bit top heavy it was also very scary to ride on the 50+mph downhills.

This year's "Ridge of the Rockies" (Canada to Mexico) has 88,000 feet of climbing scattered over 19 days of riding. I'll be riding my Kuota Kredo. Weighing in at just over 17 pounds...it's a blast to ride uphill!!! I've switched to Profile Dromo carbon bars so I can still use my clip-on aerobars on the flatter days. Still haven't figured out what wheel set I'll ride.

Canada to Mexico 2008

2008-02-02T13:17:00.001-08:00

Here's the daily plan for 2008's cycling adventure....PAC Tour's "Ridge of the Rockies" July 28 - August 17, 2008 1900+ miles/80K+ feet of climbing.