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.
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