Here's to you all!!!! There are none finer! What a joy to share the road with you all.
Who's up for a "Fall Colors Ride" up this mountain?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
Ride Report: Cheaha Two Day Tour
Press on Regardless
That phrase captures this ride. So does, “Epic.”
Let me start out by saying that I could not imagine doing a long tough ride with a better group than we had. Present were Ed Clark, Chris Muntzel, Matt Rinenbach, Ryan Summers, Cindy Whitley, and your faithful correspondent. The six of us completed the whole tour. Wow!
What kind of group was it? The kind where four of the six of us rode their bikes to the start. The kind where, when an incident happened, we fixed it and kept going. Cheerful, resourceful, determined, happy folk who enjoyed the beauty of the day and the ride, and faced adversity with quiet courage. Wow!
The weather was amazing. It stayed cool and lovely throughout both days of our trip. Astonishingly good weather at any time of the year, for mid July it was absolutely amazing.
Consider, we were doing this as a self-supported ride. That means heavy bikes, with loads. The lightest bike and load I saw equaled more than 25% of the rider’s weight. Most were heavier. The terrain can be variously described as, spectacular, challenging, brutal, amazing, fun, and torturous.
We did a lot of climbing. Make that a lot! We were in big rollers with a steadily increasing elevation from the moment we crossed that Chattahoochee. In Alabama, the 12 miles on Cleburn 10 were amazingly beautiful, and incredibly tough riding. And then we hit the mountain.
Cheaha is interesting. If you are used to “doing the gaps” in the southern Smokies, this will be especially significant. The climb begins at Hollis Crossroads. From there it is about 20 miles to the summit. The first four of those miles are on gradually tougher “rollers.” Then there is a ridgeline assault, and the approach climb begins in earnest.
The thing about Cheaha, is that the approach is actually tougher than the main climb. The grades average 10%. You tackle a half mile climb at this very steep pitch, and then find yourself descending just as steeply for the next half mile. Repeat almost endlessly. It’s hard on the legs, and it beats the rider up psychologically. Every one of us met some kind of profound challenge while climbing the mountain.
A special vote of thanks to Dan Christensen. We weren’t expecting this, but Dan and his lovely wife met us at the top of the mountain. They had lawn chairs, and a cooler full of sports drinks and iced water bottles. Wow! Dan and Linda, thank you and bless you.
So after riding 100 miles, through increasingly rougher terrain, and climbing to the summit of one mean mountain… We had to get down. The trip down from the summit involved about 12 miles of interesting riding. First there was a screaming descent for about 2.5 miles. Then a sharp turn onto another road, with rougher surface, and another 1.5 miles of hairy descending. And then..! We turned onto a dirt road. The dirt surface “descended” for the next seven miles. I say descended, but there were climbs too, and turns, and washboard dirt, and… And moguls??!! Yes and moguls too! Wow!
It’s safe to say that we were all tired and sore when we arrived in Oxford. We checked into our hotel, showered quickly, and went and devoured a lot of food. I don’t think anyone had any trouble getting to sleep.
Day two was just as tough. Of course we didn’t do the mountain again, but we were starting out stiff and sore from day one’s work. And the first 35 miles included some hard ridge climbing to bypass Cheaha, and then that long stretch on Cleburn 10… again! Then we started to make some time. But by then we were all pretty tired.
Day two provided us with more spectacular weather, cool temps, low humidity, awesome cloudscapes, and gentle breezes. The climb back up from the Chattahoochee to Palmetto seemed endless. And then we got into a pretty good stretch of “get-home-itis” at the end of the ride.
I’m leaving a lot out of this account. There was the rack that came unstuck, the flat tire, and a host of other incidents and events. There was laughter, and a lot of wonderful camaraderie. It was a great and good adventure, and we all made it in fine style. Wow.
Details:
Day One: 114 miles
Day two: 97 miles
Total on bike time: 17 hours 7 minutes
Elevation Gain: Lots and lots. Uphill steeply in both directions!!!!
That phrase captures this ride. So does, “Epic.”
Let me start out by saying that I could not imagine doing a long tough ride with a better group than we had. Present were Ed Clark, Chris Muntzel, Matt Rinenbach, Ryan Summers, Cindy Whitley, and your faithful correspondent. The six of us completed the whole tour. Wow!
What kind of group was it? The kind where four of the six of us rode their bikes to the start. The kind where, when an incident happened, we fixed it and kept going. Cheerful, resourceful, determined, happy folk who enjoyed the beauty of the day and the ride, and faced adversity with quiet courage. Wow!
The weather was amazing. It stayed cool and lovely throughout both days of our trip. Astonishingly good weather at any time of the year, for mid July it was absolutely amazing.
Consider, we were doing this as a self-supported ride. That means heavy bikes, with loads. The lightest bike and load I saw equaled more than 25% of the rider’s weight. Most were heavier. The terrain can be variously described as, spectacular, challenging, brutal, amazing, fun, and torturous.
We did a lot of climbing. Make that a lot! We were in big rollers with a steadily increasing elevation from the moment we crossed that Chattahoochee. In Alabama, the 12 miles on Cleburn 10 were amazingly beautiful, and incredibly tough riding. And then we hit the mountain.
Cheaha is interesting. If you are used to “doing the gaps” in the southern Smokies, this will be especially significant. The climb begins at Hollis Crossroads. From there it is about 20 miles to the summit. The first four of those miles are on gradually tougher “rollers.” Then there is a ridgeline assault, and the approach climb begins in earnest.
The thing about Cheaha, is that the approach is actually tougher than the main climb. The grades average 10%. You tackle a half mile climb at this very steep pitch, and then find yourself descending just as steeply for the next half mile. Repeat almost endlessly. It’s hard on the legs, and it beats the rider up psychologically. Every one of us met some kind of profound challenge while climbing the mountain.
A special vote of thanks to Dan Christensen. We weren’t expecting this, but Dan and his lovely wife met us at the top of the mountain. They had lawn chairs, and a cooler full of sports drinks and iced water bottles. Wow! Dan and Linda, thank you and bless you.
So after riding 100 miles, through increasingly rougher terrain, and climbing to the summit of one mean mountain… We had to get down. The trip down from the summit involved about 12 miles of interesting riding. First there was a screaming descent for about 2.5 miles. Then a sharp turn onto another road, with rougher surface, and another 1.5 miles of hairy descending. And then..! We turned onto a dirt road. The dirt surface “descended” for the next seven miles. I say descended, but there were climbs too, and turns, and washboard dirt, and… And moguls??!! Yes and moguls too! Wow!
It’s safe to say that we were all tired and sore when we arrived in Oxford. We checked into our hotel, showered quickly, and went and devoured a lot of food. I don’t think anyone had any trouble getting to sleep.
Day two was just as tough. Of course we didn’t do the mountain again, but we were starting out stiff and sore from day one’s work. And the first 35 miles included some hard ridge climbing to bypass Cheaha, and then that long stretch on Cleburn 10… again! Then we started to make some time. But by then we were all pretty tired.
Day two provided us with more spectacular weather, cool temps, low humidity, awesome cloudscapes, and gentle breezes. The climb back up from the Chattahoochee to Palmetto seemed endless. And then we got into a pretty good stretch of “get-home-itis” at the end of the ride.
I’m leaving a lot out of this account. There was the rack that came unstuck, the flat tire, and a host of other incidents and events. There was laughter, and a lot of wonderful camaraderie. It was a great and good adventure, and we all made it in fine style. Wow.
Details:
Day One: 114 miles
Day two: 97 miles
Total on bike time: 17 hours 7 minutes
Elevation Gain: Lots and lots. Uphill steeply in both directions!!!!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Final Preps
It’s Wednesday, 15 July. We’re going to ride to Cheaha this Saturday! It’s almost here!
Time to make those final preparations. Have you made up your checklist? Trust me, this is the best way to get ready for a ride like this.
Before you start making those last minute preparations, sit down and write out a checklist. Once you’ve completed that task, you can start working the items. That way you can get some sleep on Thursday and Friday nights. Believe me, you want to do that.
Here’s a sample checklist which you can expand to suit your individual needs.
Bicycle:
Running well
Chain lubed
Tires pumped and inspected one last time.
Brakes inspected
Shifting free and correct
Racks and bags mounted and secure
Pack:
Clothing
Rain gear
Tools
Spares
Sunscreen
Food
Have fun packing.
The current weather forecast for the area is for a 30% rain chance each day, with highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 60s. Sound close to ideal. Sunscreen and rain jackets (of course!) along with sunglasses and smiles.
If you have let me know that you are going, check your email one last time. I’ve sent out a copy of the cuesheets. I will have some extra copies available on Saturday morning, but it would be good to do any manipulation and printing on your own. (Not all of us read small print well.)
See you Saturday morning!
Time to make those final preparations. Have you made up your checklist? Trust me, this is the best way to get ready for a ride like this.
Before you start making those last minute preparations, sit down and write out a checklist. Once you’ve completed that task, you can start working the items. That way you can get some sleep on Thursday and Friday nights. Believe me, you want to do that.
Here’s a sample checklist which you can expand to suit your individual needs.
Bicycle:
Running well
Chain lubed
Tires pumped and inspected one last time.
Brakes inspected
Shifting free and correct
Racks and bags mounted and secure
Pack:
Clothing
Rain gear
Tools
Spares
Sunscreen
Food
Have fun packing.
The current weather forecast for the area is for a 30% rain chance each day, with highs in the mid 80s and lows in the mid 60s. Sound close to ideal. Sunscreen and rain jackets (of course!) along with sunglasses and smiles.
If you have let me know that you are going, check your email one last time. I’ve sent out a copy of the cuesheets. I will have some extra copies available on Saturday morning, but it would be good to do any manipulation and printing on your own. (Not all of us read small print well.)
See you Saturday morning!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Some Visualization
Now, Dream with me for a bit. Move your mind ahead.
It’s the morning of 18 July. It’s about 6:30. Folks are beginning to arrive in front of the bike shop. Tires are being pumped. Bikes checked over. Last minute details are being attended to. Sunrise will be at 06:42, in just a few minutes. It might be raining. It might be clear. Either way the group is going to go. Everyone here is committed to the ride.
There is a brief rider’s meeting, and the group pushes off, turning north on the Peachtree Parkway.
About an hour later the small group of riders, on their loaded bikes, pulls into a store in Palmetto. This is a brief stop, one to get legs stretched, water bottles topped off, loads adjusted. And again the group pushes off. Now the major traffic of the southern Atlanta area is behind us. The day is warming, but the trees along the route provide a good bit of shade. Soon there will be two features to the ride. The first is the long descent to the Chattahoochee River. As soon as the river is crossed we begin the long “grinder” climb up to GA-166. It’s actually only a three mile long grade, and not all that steep, but it seems longer. This is good. Legs are being warmed gently for climbing.
At the intersection with GA-166 we turn toward Carrolton, GA. For most of our group this will be new riding territory, new roads, new sights. We have eleven miles of country road riding ahead, before GA-166 joins GA-61. Then we have to negotiate Carrolton.
The stretch of GA-166/61 is wide and busy, but there are ample shoulders, and it’s still early in the day, so the traffic isn’t too bad. There are plenty of stores along this part of the route, so replenishing water, and taking a brief break is an option.
Carrolton is a big small town. It’s mostly tree shaded, and our route takes us away from a lot of the bustle fairly quickly. Soon enough we are passing the campus of West Georgia University. That marks our departure from Carrolton. We’ll rejoin, GA-166 on the west side of the town, and continue our route.
The terrain has turned to “rollers” through here, traffic gradually decreases as we head west.
At mile 56 we enter the small town of Bowden, GA. This is a good spot for another “water stop” and a snack. The Alabama line is beckoning.
Not quite four miles out of Bowden, we leave Georgia behind and enter Alabama. The road looks the same, but now it’s called AL-46.
Now that we’ve passed Bowden, we are definitely “in the country.” Traffic is getting noticeably thinner. This is a good thing, as the day has warmed nicely, and we are all beginning to feel the first hints of fatigue. That’s okay. We have what it takes. We’ve just been working for a while. It’s a good feeling. The landscape is getting better too.
Shortly after crossing the state line, we pass through the very small town of Ranburne. This would be a good place to double check water. It’s about 20 miles to the store stop at Hollis Cross Roads.
Shortly out of Ranburne we turn off of AL-46, onto Cleburn-10. This is a county road. It’s definitely country here. The views are spectacular, and the riding is amazing. This is “big roller” country! Long, fairly steep climbs alternate with swooping descents. Traffic is almost non-existent. The scenery is incredible! This is about where most riders will experience that “second wind” phenomena. Yes!
Eventually we come out of the hills and valleys of Cleburn-10, and join US-431. Even though this is a US “shield” route, it’s not heavily traffic laden. It is a lot flatter, and that’s a relief. Shortly we come to Hollis Crossroads. There are two stores here, and that’s a good thing. We all could use a break, possibly a late lunch.
Everyone will want to take on all the water they can carry at Hollis. It’s a long pull to the top of Cheaha. There is a store just before the ramp to AL-28, about five miles after Hollis, but it’s not reliable. There’s a “country store” at the state park at the summit of the mountain, but it closes at 4:00 PM. So we have to take on enough water to make it to Oxford.
Almost immediately after leaving Hollis, we make a turn and the road gets hilly. Soon we are doing some real climbing up to the turn to AL-281. This road is also known as the “Skyway Motorway.” At this turn transition to doing mountainous riding.
The road climbs one of the spine ridges of Cheaha mountain. It rises sharply, and then descends just as sharply. We are now getting intermittent glimpses of long mountain vistas. It’s an “approach climb,” and a serious one.
As soon as we round the “cove” we will transfer from one ridge to the main ridge, and the final ascent of the mountain begins. It’s tough riding, and the day’s fatigue is beginning to affect almost everyone, but the thought occurs, “we’re almost there!”
It’s a pretty good bet that every one of us will need some kind of encouragement during this part of the ride. This is where the mutual reinforcement and camaraderie really pay off.
We’ll stop at the summit, at the Cheaha State Park buildings, and catch our breath. The shade will be welcome. This will be a good time to get the bandanas out and do a quick facial wash down. Get off the bike and sit and relax for a bit.
Once we remount we are ready to begin the descent. It’s fast and twisty. But…! It’s not all down hill from here. We will have to climb some in order to get off of the mountain. These climbs are relatively short, nothing like we’ve been through to get here, and the day’s destination is getting very close.
I promise a couple of nifty surprises during this trip down from Cheaha. Then we arrive in Oxford, tired, sweaty, hot, and ready for showers, food, and clean sheets. This is where the hotel reservation becomes a real blessing.
Day Two
We won’t be going over the top of Cheaha on the return trip. I suspect most folks will be happy with that on Sunday morning. We’ll each be on our own about breakfast. We’ll meet up to start riding at a bit more civilized hour. Plan on departing Oxford at 8:30.
Once we are all together, we’ll start riding out of town. Yes, we’ll all be somewhat stiff and sore from the previous day’s riding. The good news is, the first leg of the trip is fairly flat. This gives riders the time to slowly warm up and “work the kinks out.”
We don’t really begin to climb until we pass Hillabee Creek, at about mile seven. This is a fairly large man made lake. After Hillabee we have a long ridge climb up to where we turned onto AL-281 the day before. This is where we rejoin the outbound route. From this point on, we’ll be retracing our route back to home. We’ll get to see all of the same road, but they will look different as we are travelling them in reverse.
We take our first break at Hollis Crossroads. This is where we truly say goodbye to the Cheaha country. We do the short stretch of flat riding along US-431, and then we’re into the rollers on Cleburn 10. It’s beautiful country in which to spend a Sunday morning.
The terrain flattens a bit as we leave Alabama behind. We get another break in Bowden, Georgia. It’s time to get psyched up for the “big city” of Carrolton.
Carrolton, Georgia, on a Sunday afternoon, turns out not to be all that tough. It’s a big small town after all. The traffic is a little hectic on the short stretch of GA-166/61 north of Carrolton, but then we turn into the country. When 166 departs from 61 we’re back into rural riding, and the trend, though rolly, is mostly downhill.
When we make the turn onto Capps Ferry Road, leaving GA-166, we are officially back on “home turf.” Admittedly it’s not turf we see often, but it’s within striking distance of home. It’s also a three mile long gradual descent to the “Hootch.” Yippee.
We stop at Palmetto for one last break before the final push home. Everyone is a bit tired now, but the trip is almost over. It’s late Sunday afternoon. We’re getting the usual questions from the folk around the store. “Where you riding?” and “How far you goin?” It’s kind of hard to answer those, and we know we won’t be believed.
The last fifteen miles back to Peachtree City are long, slow, and relaxed. Likely most riders will be feeling a combination of emotions. It’s been a long trip. Longer than the time it took. We’re tired, but we have what it takes to get the job finished. We’re thinking about what we’ve just done, and who we’ve done it with.
We do the final, tough stretch on the Peachtree Parkway, and all too soon, we're turning into the parking lot. We're done. Over 200 miles. One significant mountain. Two days. All on a bicycle.
It’s good to be home.
It’s the morning of 18 July. It’s about 6:30. Folks are beginning to arrive in front of the bike shop. Tires are being pumped. Bikes checked over. Last minute details are being attended to. Sunrise will be at 06:42, in just a few minutes. It might be raining. It might be clear. Either way the group is going to go. Everyone here is committed to the ride.
There is a brief rider’s meeting, and the group pushes off, turning north on the Peachtree Parkway.
About an hour later the small group of riders, on their loaded bikes, pulls into a store in Palmetto. This is a brief stop, one to get legs stretched, water bottles topped off, loads adjusted. And again the group pushes off. Now the major traffic of the southern Atlanta area is behind us. The day is warming, but the trees along the route provide a good bit of shade. Soon there will be two features to the ride. The first is the long descent to the Chattahoochee River. As soon as the river is crossed we begin the long “grinder” climb up to GA-166. It’s actually only a three mile long grade, and not all that steep, but it seems longer. This is good. Legs are being warmed gently for climbing.
At the intersection with GA-166 we turn toward Carrolton, GA. For most of our group this will be new riding territory, new roads, new sights. We have eleven miles of country road riding ahead, before GA-166 joins GA-61. Then we have to negotiate Carrolton.
The stretch of GA-166/61 is wide and busy, but there are ample shoulders, and it’s still early in the day, so the traffic isn’t too bad. There are plenty of stores along this part of the route, so replenishing water, and taking a brief break is an option.
Carrolton is a big small town. It’s mostly tree shaded, and our route takes us away from a lot of the bustle fairly quickly. Soon enough we are passing the campus of West Georgia University. That marks our departure from Carrolton. We’ll rejoin, GA-166 on the west side of the town, and continue our route.
The terrain has turned to “rollers” through here, traffic gradually decreases as we head west.
At mile 56 we enter the small town of Bowden, GA. This is a good spot for another “water stop” and a snack. The Alabama line is beckoning.
Not quite four miles out of Bowden, we leave Georgia behind and enter Alabama. The road looks the same, but now it’s called AL-46.
Now that we’ve passed Bowden, we are definitely “in the country.” Traffic is getting noticeably thinner. This is a good thing, as the day has warmed nicely, and we are all beginning to feel the first hints of fatigue. That’s okay. We have what it takes. We’ve just been working for a while. It’s a good feeling. The landscape is getting better too.
Shortly after crossing the state line, we pass through the very small town of Ranburne. This would be a good place to double check water. It’s about 20 miles to the store stop at Hollis Cross Roads.
Shortly out of Ranburne we turn off of AL-46, onto Cleburn-10. This is a county road. It’s definitely country here. The views are spectacular, and the riding is amazing. This is “big roller” country! Long, fairly steep climbs alternate with swooping descents. Traffic is almost non-existent. The scenery is incredible! This is about where most riders will experience that “second wind” phenomena. Yes!
Eventually we come out of the hills and valleys of Cleburn-10, and join US-431. Even though this is a US “shield” route, it’s not heavily traffic laden. It is a lot flatter, and that’s a relief. Shortly we come to Hollis Crossroads. There are two stores here, and that’s a good thing. We all could use a break, possibly a late lunch.
Everyone will want to take on all the water they can carry at Hollis. It’s a long pull to the top of Cheaha. There is a store just before the ramp to AL-28, about five miles after Hollis, but it’s not reliable. There’s a “country store” at the state park at the summit of the mountain, but it closes at 4:00 PM. So we have to take on enough water to make it to Oxford.
Almost immediately after leaving Hollis, we make a turn and the road gets hilly. Soon we are doing some real climbing up to the turn to AL-281. This road is also known as the “Skyway Motorway.” At this turn transition to doing mountainous riding.
The road climbs one of the spine ridges of Cheaha mountain. It rises sharply, and then descends just as sharply. We are now getting intermittent glimpses of long mountain vistas. It’s an “approach climb,” and a serious one.
As soon as we round the “cove” we will transfer from one ridge to the main ridge, and the final ascent of the mountain begins. It’s tough riding, and the day’s fatigue is beginning to affect almost everyone, but the thought occurs, “we’re almost there!”
It’s a pretty good bet that every one of us will need some kind of encouragement during this part of the ride. This is where the mutual reinforcement and camaraderie really pay off.
We’ll stop at the summit, at the Cheaha State Park buildings, and catch our breath. The shade will be welcome. This will be a good time to get the bandanas out and do a quick facial wash down. Get off the bike and sit and relax for a bit.
Once we remount we are ready to begin the descent. It’s fast and twisty. But…! It’s not all down hill from here. We will have to climb some in order to get off of the mountain. These climbs are relatively short, nothing like we’ve been through to get here, and the day’s destination is getting very close.
I promise a couple of nifty surprises during this trip down from Cheaha. Then we arrive in Oxford, tired, sweaty, hot, and ready for showers, food, and clean sheets. This is where the hotel reservation becomes a real blessing.
Day Two
We won’t be going over the top of Cheaha on the return trip. I suspect most folks will be happy with that on Sunday morning. We’ll each be on our own about breakfast. We’ll meet up to start riding at a bit more civilized hour. Plan on departing Oxford at 8:30.
Once we are all together, we’ll start riding out of town. Yes, we’ll all be somewhat stiff and sore from the previous day’s riding. The good news is, the first leg of the trip is fairly flat. This gives riders the time to slowly warm up and “work the kinks out.”
We don’t really begin to climb until we pass Hillabee Creek, at about mile seven. This is a fairly large man made lake. After Hillabee we have a long ridge climb up to where we turned onto AL-281 the day before. This is where we rejoin the outbound route. From this point on, we’ll be retracing our route back to home. We’ll get to see all of the same road, but they will look different as we are travelling them in reverse.
We take our first break at Hollis Crossroads. This is where we truly say goodbye to the Cheaha country. We do the short stretch of flat riding along US-431, and then we’re into the rollers on Cleburn 10. It’s beautiful country in which to spend a Sunday morning.
The terrain flattens a bit as we leave Alabama behind. We get another break in Bowden, Georgia. It’s time to get psyched up for the “big city” of Carrolton.
Carrolton, Georgia, on a Sunday afternoon, turns out not to be all that tough. It’s a big small town after all. The traffic is a little hectic on the short stretch of GA-166/61 north of Carrolton, but then we turn into the country. When 166 departs from 61 we’re back into rural riding, and the trend, though rolly, is mostly downhill.
When we make the turn onto Capps Ferry Road, leaving GA-166, we are officially back on “home turf.” Admittedly it’s not turf we see often, but it’s within striking distance of home. It’s also a three mile long gradual descent to the “Hootch.” Yippee.
We stop at Palmetto for one last break before the final push home. Everyone is a bit tired now, but the trip is almost over. It’s late Sunday afternoon. We’re getting the usual questions from the folk around the store. “Where you riding?” and “How far you goin?” It’s kind of hard to answer those, and we know we won’t be believed.
The last fifteen miles back to Peachtree City are long, slow, and relaxed. Likely most riders will be feeling a combination of emotions. It’s been a long trip. Longer than the time it took. We’re tired, but we have what it takes to get the job finished. We’re thinking about what we’ve just done, and who we’ve done it with.
We do the final, tough stretch on the Peachtree Parkway, and all too soon, we're turning into the parking lot. We're done. Over 200 miles. One significant mountain. Two days. All on a bicycle.
It’s good to be home.
Monday, July 6, 2009
RIDE REPORT: 3-Gap Tour Test
Let’s start with the numbers.
Distance: 53.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 8,014 feet
Time: 04:37
Rolling Average Speed: 11.4 mph
Course Profile:
Fortune again smiled on us. The weather for this ride was about as near perfect as can be asked for. The day dawned and remained overcast. Temps stayed in the 70s throughout our trip. The humidity was low, and cool breezes soothed the heat of the climbs.
Our group was mostly made up of folk intending to do the Cheaha Two Day Tour. Ryan, Matt, Chris, Cindy, and I were all pretty much loaded up. Our bikes were heavy, and it hardly mattered. We took the time that it took. We didn’t try to set a blistering pace, but rather rode to climb the mountains while carrying significant loads.
Lessons learned included, bike maintenance and set up issues, hydration, and pacing. I am confident that each and every one of us could do the Cheaha trip.
We also had along two additional riders, HL and Leaha. (I hope I’m spelling that correctly.) Both of these folk had other agendas in mind, but it was pleasant to share the road with them.
Generally we had a good time, made good time, and finished in good order.
What’s next? Cheaha is in two weeks. Now it’s time to lighten the load. I’d recommend that each of us unpack and take a good close look at every item we are carrying. Is it necessary? Is there a lighter one? Can it be done without?
If we agree to ride Audax style, and stick together, this gets a bit easier. I’ll be carrying a pump. No one else need lug one along. Everyone should pack their own spares. But look with sharp critical eyes at each part of your load. If it’s not absolutely necessary, leave it.
The next two weeks are for testing and refining your load plan.
More on the Cheaha trip tomorrow.
Distance: 53.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 8,014 feet
Time: 04:37
Rolling Average Speed: 11.4 mph
Course Profile:
Fortune again smiled on us. The weather for this ride was about as near perfect as can be asked for. The day dawned and remained overcast. Temps stayed in the 70s throughout our trip. The humidity was low, and cool breezes soothed the heat of the climbs.
Our group was mostly made up of folk intending to do the Cheaha Two Day Tour. Ryan, Matt, Chris, Cindy, and I were all pretty much loaded up. Our bikes were heavy, and it hardly mattered. We took the time that it took. We didn’t try to set a blistering pace, but rather rode to climb the mountains while carrying significant loads.
Lessons learned included, bike maintenance and set up issues, hydration, and pacing. I am confident that each and every one of us could do the Cheaha trip.
We also had along two additional riders, HL and Leaha. (I hope I’m spelling that correctly.) Both of these folk had other agendas in mind, but it was pleasant to share the road with them.
Generally we had a good time, made good time, and finished in good order.
What’s next? Cheaha is in two weeks. Now it’s time to lighten the load. I’d recommend that each of us unpack and take a good close look at every item we are carrying. Is it necessary? Is there a lighter one? Can it be done without?
If we agree to ride Audax style, and stick together, this gets a bit easier. I’ll be carrying a pump. No one else need lug one along. Everyone should pack their own spares. But look with sharp critical eyes at each part of your load. If it’s not absolutely necessary, leave it.
The next two weeks are for testing and refining your load plan.
More on the Cheaha trip tomorrow.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Rest up and Get Ready for the Mountains!
We’re going.
Date: Sunday, 5 July
Time: Ride starts at 9:00 AM
Start/Finish: Walmart Parking Lot, Dahlonega, GA
Weather Outlook for 5 July 2009: Mostly sunny. Highs near 80. There’s a 40% chance of T-showers. Looks like a day for sunscreen and rain jackets.
The intent of this ride is for folks planning to do the Cheaha Two Day Tour to get out and try mountains on their loaded up bikes. Bring your full tour load and expect to climb at a conservative pace. Anyone else who wishes to come along is more than welcome to do so. But do note, we will be on heavy bikes, so we will not be acting like racers.
Riding Strategy: The best way to tackle this one is to ride conservatively. Go to low gears early and spin easily up every climb. Don’t save your low gears for later ~~ save your legs! Do this and your day will be a happy one. One other bit of advice. There is a tendency to “celebrate the summit” at the top of each of the gaps. This wastes time and increases leg fatigue. It’s better to roll over the top and go right into the descents.
A brief Route Description:
There is a short downhill out of the Walmart parking lot, and then we are in it. The first 16 miles of this route are an “approach climb.” It’s rollers, but the trend is uphill. There is a good store just before the first gap climb. This is the last chance to water up and attend nature’s call.
We make a turn at Turner’s Corner, and then we are climbing up Neels Gap. It’s about a six mile climb with a false summit at approximately a mile and a half in. There is a store at the summit of the gap if one absolutely has to stop.
Descending out of Neels is a blast. The road is well graded and fairly wide three lane. Prepare to start looking around sharply when you pass the truck runaway ramp. The turn for the climb up Wolf Pen Gap is easy to miss. It’s just below Camp Vogel.
The climb up Wolf Pen is steeper, but shorter. It’s about a four mile ascent. There’s a lot o0f incredible scenery on this shaded climb. The road is narrow so be alert to traffic. There isn’t much, but you do not want to be stuck out in the middle of the road when a car comes around a turn. There is nothing at the top. No vistas, no stores. Nothing but a short level, and a lot of mosquitoes. Don’t stop.
The descent from Wolf pen is a blast. It’s made even better by the knowledge that the worst work of the day is behind us.
There is a stretch of nice rollers from the bottom of Wolf Pen Gap to the small intersection at Suches. There is a good store at Suches. I usually stop there, water up, and rest the legs for a few minutes.
The climb from Suches to the summit of Woody Gap is nice. It’s not steep and not very long at all. It’s about three miles of 4% to 5% grade.
There is a good vista at the summit of Woody Gap, but I’d urge us to save that for another day and keep riding. Woody Gap alsways seems like magic to me. It’s a short climb, followed by a really long and really nice descent. One bit of advice is relevant. Before beginning the descent out of Woody Gap, decide whether you are a tourist or a cyclist. If you are riding fast, and you let the views distract you, you could get into real trouble. If you want to sight-see, keep your speed down.
Coming down from Woody involves about eight miles of descending to the false summit, a short climb, and then another two miles of quality descent. Then it’s rollers back to Dahlonega. If one continues along the route out of Woody, Walmart will be on the left, after ascending the infamous “Walmart Gap.” I’d recommend staying close to me. I’ll be taking the business alternate on route 9, into the town of Dahlonega, and then through town to Walmart. This avoids that last nasty climb out of the reservoir.
For you prospective tourists, here’s the test: if you finish this ride with anything “left in the tank,” you can consider yourself ready for Cheaha.
Can’t wait to see you all up there!
Date: Sunday, 5 July
Time: Ride starts at 9:00 AM
Start/Finish: Walmart Parking Lot, Dahlonega, GA
Weather Outlook for 5 July 2009: Mostly sunny. Highs near 80. There’s a 40% chance of T-showers. Looks like a day for sunscreen and rain jackets.
The intent of this ride is for folks planning to do the Cheaha Two Day Tour to get out and try mountains on their loaded up bikes. Bring your full tour load and expect to climb at a conservative pace. Anyone else who wishes to come along is more than welcome to do so. But do note, we will be on heavy bikes, so we will not be acting like racers.
Riding Strategy: The best way to tackle this one is to ride conservatively. Go to low gears early and spin easily up every climb. Don’t save your low gears for later ~~ save your legs! Do this and your day will be a happy one. One other bit of advice. There is a tendency to “celebrate the summit” at the top of each of the gaps. This wastes time and increases leg fatigue. It’s better to roll over the top and go right into the descents.
A brief Route Description:
There is a short downhill out of the Walmart parking lot, and then we are in it. The first 16 miles of this route are an “approach climb.” It’s rollers, but the trend is uphill. There is a good store just before the first gap climb. This is the last chance to water up and attend nature’s call.
We make a turn at Turner’s Corner, and then we are climbing up Neels Gap. It’s about a six mile climb with a false summit at approximately a mile and a half in. There is a store at the summit of the gap if one absolutely has to stop.
Descending out of Neels is a blast. The road is well graded and fairly wide three lane. Prepare to start looking around sharply when you pass the truck runaway ramp. The turn for the climb up Wolf Pen Gap is easy to miss. It’s just below Camp Vogel.
The climb up Wolf Pen is steeper, but shorter. It’s about a four mile ascent. There’s a lot o0f incredible scenery on this shaded climb. The road is narrow so be alert to traffic. There isn’t much, but you do not want to be stuck out in the middle of the road when a car comes around a turn. There is nothing at the top. No vistas, no stores. Nothing but a short level, and a lot of mosquitoes. Don’t stop.
The descent from Wolf pen is a blast. It’s made even better by the knowledge that the worst work of the day is behind us.
There is a stretch of nice rollers from the bottom of Wolf Pen Gap to the small intersection at Suches. There is a good store at Suches. I usually stop there, water up, and rest the legs for a few minutes.
The climb from Suches to the summit of Woody Gap is nice. It’s not steep and not very long at all. It’s about three miles of 4% to 5% grade.
There is a good vista at the summit of Woody Gap, but I’d urge us to save that for another day and keep riding. Woody Gap alsways seems like magic to me. It’s a short climb, followed by a really long and really nice descent. One bit of advice is relevant. Before beginning the descent out of Woody Gap, decide whether you are a tourist or a cyclist. If you are riding fast, and you let the views distract you, you could get into real trouble. If you want to sight-see, keep your speed down.
Coming down from Woody involves about eight miles of descending to the false summit, a short climb, and then another two miles of quality descent. Then it’s rollers back to Dahlonega. If one continues along the route out of Woody, Walmart will be on the left, after ascending the infamous “Walmart Gap.” I’d recommend staying close to me. I’ll be taking the business alternate on route 9, into the town of Dahlonega, and then through town to Walmart. This avoids that last nasty climb out of the reservoir.
For you prospective tourists, here’s the test: if you finish this ride with anything “left in the tank,” you can consider yourself ready for Cheaha.
Can’t wait to see you all up there!
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