I haven’t been posting about my rides, and I’ve complained about not riding nearly as much, but I do ride. Here’s a quick rundown of some recent, memorable rides.
Cold Camping
On November 13th, Tim and I headed to Shelby Lake outside of Shelbyville for a lakeside camping spot. The ride was pleasant, if a bit windy. We had a cold, windy night to contend with. I was uncomfortable for much of the night, even though I was able to get a fire started. The return trip brought us a good breakfast. 80+ miles over two days and a beautiful campsite – not bad.
November GAR
On November 22nd, Timothy put on another GAR (Gravel Adventure Ride). This one left out of New Washington Indiana. I rode my rSogn, as my Fargo, which is usually my gravel bike has some drivetrain issues.
I felt like an actual cyclist during the first half of the ride… then the wheels feel off and I struggled. Still, I pulled myself through under my own power for 57 miles.
Christmas Ride
My wife and I drove to Crestwood to visit her brother. We had a nice brunch. I had brought my bike with me to ride home. It was appropriately decorated.
It was only 29 miles, but it felt good to get out. After getting home, Tim and I went to one of the few bars open on Christmas for a couple of beers.
Rainy!
Tim and I headed out on the Sunday after Christmas for a 50-mile road ride. The day started with 70-degree temperatures, rain, and wind. I was wearing shorts – a decision I later regretted.
The first 30 miles weren’t bad. It did rain hard, but I don’t mind getting wet.
The return trip was supposed to have a tailwind, but at our mile-30 store stop, the front came through, the wind changed direction, and it got cooler.
If you look at the elevation profile on the GPS track below, you’ll notice it gets crazy after mile 30. That’s not reality. The pressure-based altimeter couldn’t handle the weather change. In reality it was dead-flat.
The temperature had dropped into the low 40s, we had a stiff headwind, and I was still wearing shorts. Brrrrrr.
Tim asked me where the ride registered on my fun-meter. I told him that some rides are more fun in retrospect.
Today
Although I didn’t get out for a New Years Day ride, which I did a few years back with Tim, when it was 9 degrees, I did get out today. It’s starting to feel like winter. I think it was low 40s. I’m meeting up with him in the morning for another ride.
I’ve done other rides besides these. I just wanted to get a sampling out there. Tim, Timothy, and I did an overnight camping trip to Jefferson Forest in the rain. That was memorable.
I’m trying to really ramp up my riding this year. Wish me luck!