tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32796652925434140422024-03-14T02:01:30.315-07:00Ramblings of an IconoclastJasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.comBlogger67125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-9827216449741516382017-09-24T15:09:00.000-07:002017-09-24T15:09:27.470-07:00Gonzo/Kinsman/Kanc Ride ReportI was hoping to get one more White Mountain ride in this season. I was looking for a perfect weather day before foliage season really starts. Today was that day.<br />
<br />
I got a bit of a late start and then hit traffic on 495 (accident) and 93 (road work) so I didn’t arrive in Lincoln until about 10:30. As is my custom, I go straight to Subway. I sometimes order a 6 inch and sometimes a 12 inch sub. Knowing the climbing I’d be doing today, I went with the 12 inch chicken sub. I ate it quickly and then went back to the White Mountain Visitor Center (WMVC). I kitted up only taking one water bottle because I knew I’d be coming back this way to refill.<br />
<br />
I had noticed before that the beginning of route 118 had been repaved but I didn’t know how far it went. Today I’d be taking that route so was hoping it was all repaved. This road, also known as Gonzo Pass, has had terrible pavement for years with huge cracks and massive frost heaves. I was happy to see that the whole road had been repaved. It certainly wasn’t a fantastic job as there were already some cracks showing but they were nothing like before and the heaves had been removed. This is a good steady climb. I reached the apex at 9 miles. I had only planned to continue down the other side if the pavement had been redone. It was downright dangerous before with a chicane section that I know had caused a cyclist to suffer a serious crash, careening into the guardrail. <br />
<br />
It was much better and I could let my speed run out much more than my last descent here. I topped out at 45.13MPH. I still feathered the brakes at the twisty guardrail section because I wasn’t 100% sure that the heaves had been fixed. They were. I continued to route 25 which entailed road that was almost all downhill though at a much gentler gradient. I had never ridden 118 in the opposite direction (from west to east) so this return on it would be new. It’s roughly the same difficulty of climb in both directions. I’d say the descent heading back towards Lincoln is slightly more fun. It has plenty of twisty sections and I achieved a max speed of 45.57MPH. Having never down the descent in this direction, I was somewhat cautious but still enjoyed some high speed turns.<br />
<br />
I had now completed two rigorous climbs and was soon to take on my third as I turned onto 112 to head up Kinsman Notch. I’ve done this climb quite a few times. It’s challenging but nothing crazy. I turned around at the Beaver Brook trailhead. I completely finished my water on the ascent and was hoping there’d be a water source there but couldn’t find one. I didn’t spend any time there but got back out on 112 to begin the best descent of the ride. I pedaled as hard as I could into it and then tucked. I could feel a slight crosswind that prevented me from reaching a record speed but I still hit my third fastest at 54.16MPH. Maybe because I’ve now done this descent quite a few times, it didn’t really seem that fast to me and I wasn’t nervous at all. My bike handled perfectly.<br />
<br />
I get back down to Lincoln and turn into the WMVC to refuel. I added a second water bottle, ate four bars and an energy gel. I was only stopped less than 10 minutes. I had planned to go to the other side of at least one of the peaks and had already accomplished this with Gonzo. I was toying with the idea of also going over the Kancamagus summit down to Bear Notch but wouldn’t make up my mind until I reached the summit of the pass.<br />
<br />
By now the wind had picked up some and it was behind me for the ascent of the Kancamagus. I was pleasantly surprised to see that repaving had taken place on this road as well starting about ½ mile before the hairpin turn. The wind definitely helped with the climb but I decided that four major climbs were going to be enough for today and made up my mind to not proceed over the pass and down the other side. I stopped briefly at the lookout parking lot at the top of the pass, consuming one more energy gel. The nice thing was that I knew it was practically all downhill all the way back to the visitor center and I’d get to experience the new pavement on the descent. The first part is quite steep and then there’s that fairly sharp turn to the left. The pavement had been so bumpy before that I never felt comfortable going all out but this time I did no braking and my bike held a perfect line on the turn. The wind was against me though so that did lower my speed. I only reached about 43. I pedaled hard on much of the 13 miles going back to Lincoln. The traffic everywhere today was very light and this included even the Kanc. The foliage has definitely started to turn and I actually saw more color than I expected but especially during midweek, the crowds just aren’t around yet.<br />
<br />
I pulled into the WMVC feeling tired but not as exhausted as some rides. I probably could have gone down the other side of the Kanc but it would have been a slog. The ascent from the Conway side just seems to go on forever. I prefer ascending from the Lincoln side. It’s not always easy to get 100 feet per mile elevation gain on paved roads in the White Mountains. I just achieved that mark and this made my third ride having done so, the other being rides I had done in Tennessee. <br />
<br />
I still need to get a camera that I can bring with me on the bike. I did bring a larger one and took before and after pictures but only from the parking lot.<br />
<br />
Stats<br />
Miles: 66.79<br />
Time: 3:54:30<br />
Average Speed: 17.09<br />
Max Speed: 54.16 MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 6715 feet = 100.54 feet per mile<br />
Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/25229090<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ifdOc4UhSY/Wcgs-OP_d9I/AAAAAAAAAnM/F4Q3s87TLbcXSWhbxCBttXAKIxQHmTSjQCLcBGAs/s1600/pic1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7ifdOc4UhSY/Wcgs-OP_d9I/AAAAAAAAAnM/F4Q3s87TLbcXSWhbxCBttXAKIxQHmTSjQCLcBGAs/s400/pic1.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N7MI6uNbc5o/Wcgs-LqOwxI/AAAAAAAAAnI/d5ttIGXrNqQkpK91OyfH9RGsMRVv2wf9ACLcBGAs/s1600/pic2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-N7MI6uNbc5o/Wcgs-LqOwxI/AAAAAAAAAnI/d5ttIGXrNqQkpK91OyfH9RGsMRVv2wf9ACLcBGAs/s400/pic2.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1fA7UONbQU/Wcgs-Ixs9NI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/MKpS5IPUWHEkD6IwZQzrPjvFZnGyFywHwCLcBGAs/s1600/pic3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C1fA7UONbQU/Wcgs-Ixs9NI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/MKpS5IPUWHEkD6IwZQzrPjvFZnGyFywHwCLcBGAs/s400/pic3.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-991R-enw4x8/Wcgs-X5lv9I/AAAAAAAAAnU/jeUaoGTECx8R_qdeMHnyj8HtEqAjbAi3ACLcBGAs/s1600/pic4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-991R-enw4x8/Wcgs-X5lv9I/AAAAAAAAAnU/jeUaoGTECx8R_qdeMHnyj8HtEqAjbAi3ACLcBGAs/s400/pic4.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-63540383740793814832017-09-06T06:36:00.001-07:002017-09-06T06:36:28.688-07:00Look Rock Ride ReportHere is my third and final ride report from my time in Tennessee. This was actually my second ride out there. My destination was Look Rock that I had originally planned for the Wednesday but went on Tuesday due to rain forecast for Wednesday morning. It was the right decision as we did get that one morning of rain and I’d rather not ride tight switchbacks on wet pavement.<br />
<br />
I was now more familiar with the very steep descent right from our cabin having ridden it on the Sunday when I went to Bluff Mountain. I got a 7:30 start. The only place on this descent where speed can be allowed to run out was the descent of Robeson Road which contains the only straight stretch. On the other two rides, my max speed was attained here but for this ride, I’d hit that on my descent from Look Rock.<br />
<br />
I get down to 321 but instead of taking the right, I went left on road that I hadn’t traveled by car or bike yet. The narrow and steep shoulder continued for a while on perfect newly repaved road. However, after several miles, the new pavement ended. The worn pavement wasn’t that bad but there was an unwelcome feature that wasn’t present on the new pavement: rumble strips on the narrow shoulder. I get that these are to warn cars about nearing the edge of the road but they’re a nightmare for cyclists who are already on cramped space. They simply can’t be ridden on except in an emergency.<br />
<br />
Around the six mile point of the ride, the road pointed down with switchbacks. Most of these weren’t the really tight type so I didn’t lose too much speed. A benefit is that I could take the lane for this part. I was already thinking that taking this way back would not be pleasant because I’d be going a lot slower and would face more time dealing with the rumble strips.<br />
<br />
I reach the 9.5 mile point of my ride and took Cedar Creek Road on my right which would end both my time on the 321 and the rumble strips. The names of the roads would change but I basically paralleled 321 riding on the opposite side of a river that flowed between both routes. If you look on the grade outline for the whole ride, this section appears as “flat” but, as I found out, that is only in comparison with the bookends of the ride – the cabin and Look Rock. This section was great as the roads had almost no cars but were full of fun riding terrain with ups, downs and twists.<br />
<br />
I was surprised that just after the 19 mile point, I briefly rejoined the route that I had taken on my Bluff Mountain ride. I didn’t realize that the two routes shared a couple mile stretch on Old Walland Highway. I take the bridge on Melrose Station road and cross the river at 21 miles coming out on 321 again but just very briefly before getting on Rocky Branch Road on the opposite side. I saw a store, Becky’s Grocery, at around mile 24 and planned to make that a refueling point for the way back. The comparatively “flat”, up and down riding would continue on various backroads until mile 32. I enjoyed seeing the real non-tourist areas. The pavement was mostly good with almost no cars.<br />
After doing some moderate climbing on Montvale Road, it becomes Happy Valley Road. There was a mile stretch of straight road at a grade of about 9%. Then began the series of switchbacks that topped out around 15% though the insides were probably higher than that. As with Bluff Mountain, I cleaned the climb taking it at a measured pace. It was a little confusing when I first mapped the route because I could see what appeared to be the apex of Murray Gap right where the Foothills Parkway was also showing next to Happy Valley Road. I wasn’t sure how to get up to the Parkway. I continued, now descending on Happy Valley. I really didn’t want to risk losing too much altitude because I was now 35 miles into the ride and had a long way back. I saw that Flats Road on the left was going up again so I took it hoping that it would come out by the Parkway and the viewing point for Look Rock. It actually would but I couldn’t see that initially. I ended up turning around at the Eagle Rock Retreat Center. Flats Road continued at a very steep grade up.<br />
After a brief descent, I came back to Happy Valley Road heading back the way I had come. I regained the altitude and arrived back to the point where I was under the Parkway at Murray Gap. Here I stopped under the bridge to eat an energy gel as I prepared for the descent. My mind was preoccupied with getting in the right mental state to take on this challenging section of negotiating switchbacks with losing as little speed as possible. I also wanted to time it so cars would not interfere with my descent. I let a few cars go. There was very little traffic ascending so I knew I’d probably be in the clear. The attached photos show this location.<br />
<br />
The descent, like the others, involved braking for the very tight switchbacks. I was more comfortable, having already done these on the descent from the cabin and also on Bluff Mountain. Then I got to that mile straight stretch and could finally let my speed go, topping out at 47MPH. I finished my water but was counting on a refill at that store that I passed earlier. I arrive back at it only to see that it’s closed! This was my most humid and hot ride and I really needed to do something about my hydration and fueling situation. I remembered that the route passed where I had come out on the Bluff Mountain ride and that there was a store there. I determined I’d just have to hold on until I got back there.<br />
<br />
I had been contemplating my return route. If I didn’t do the out and back that I had originally planned, I could take Cedar Creek Road that I had taken on the previous ride. This would allow me to come out to 321 on the other side where I would spend less time on it and there would be no rumble strips. While getting back to the store, I passed a cyclist. I was friendly, waving and saying ‘hi’ but he had ear buds in and couldn’t bring himself to acknowledge me in any way. I found that he was now drafting me. I don’t normally mind this but was a bit miffed at his lack of friendliness so accelerated and rode him off my wheel. It wouldn’t be long before I reached the store anyway. I find a good place to lean my bike, get off and reach to open my bike bag. My heart sank as I saw it was unzipped! I don’t normally carry my license and a credit card on rides but did on this one. I see my phone, a $10 bill and credit card are still there but no license! It was right next to my credit card so I don’t know how it fell out but the credit card did not. This was a real buzz-kill. I was getting close to bonking so didn’t waste much time before going into the store. I got the necessary replenishments paying for them with the credit card that miraculously stayed in the bike bag.<br />
<br />
I consumed them outside the store on a bench as I contemplated my next move. I was 52.5 miles into my ride. I had a fleeting thought of retracing my route. I knew it had to have fallen out somewhere in the last 15 miles from where I opened the bag at the summit of Murray Gap. Knowing the climbing I still had ahead of me, there was no way I could go back on my bike. I made the final decision to not go back the way I came but instead to do the Cedar Creek Road traverse over to 321.<br />
<br />
I tried to still enjoy the ride through this beautiful area that I had previously ridden. It was still fun but I was definitely preoccupied. I get to 321 and repeated the ascent from Sunday. At least there were no rumble strips on this side. I then had the torturous ascent back to the cabin. I had run out of liquid again. I saw a cabin that was for sale about 2/3 of the way up. It was unoccupied but the water faucet outside of it was still on so I got some water there. I finished the ascent and got back to the cabin pleased with the epic ride but stressed about my license. Amanda and I would take the car the next morning to try and find it. I knew there was very little chance but needed to try. At least I knew that only 15 miles would be involved in what was an almost 75 mile route. We came up empty but at least we were able to continue on that Flats Road, reaching the summit and seeing the viewing spot for Look Rock. I was able to get some pictures that I would not have been able to take otherwise.<br />
<br />
Stats:<br />
Miles: 74.37<br />
Time: 4:35:55<br />
Average Speed: 16.17<br />
Max Speed: 47MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 6060 feet = 81.48 feet per mile<br />
Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/24679509<br />
<br />
This would be my “flattest” of the three rides but I had very little left in the tank at its completion.<br />
<br />
The place where I left my bike bag open just before the descent.<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2RyUxoSZwk/Wa_5pZjW0vI/AAAAAAAAAmo/TAu8MwSjkzAiEdGjSnrMrGYhFCbgvc72QCLcBGAs/s1600/look1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c2RyUxoSZwk/Wa_5pZjW0vI/AAAAAAAAAmo/TAu8MwSjkzAiEdGjSnrMrGYhFCbgvc72QCLcBGAs/s640/look1.jpg" width="640" height="426" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H13FgbPbBRU/Wa_5pRTNcYI/AAAAAAAAAmk/-vUDhC9CK182vGTy_CeGLbjj2y58m08OwCLcBGAs/s1600/look2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H13FgbPbBRU/Wa_5pRTNcYI/AAAAAAAAAmk/-vUDhC9CK182vGTy_CeGLbjj2y58m08OwCLcBGAs/s640/look2.jpg" width="640" height="426" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kWOuUBBEIC0/Wa_5pQkfeAI/AAAAAAAAAmg/mCj2XGOUeEI8wjCNHiPQX12DN2EMAdl0gCLcBGAs/s1600/look3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kWOuUBBEIC0/Wa_5pQkfeAI/AAAAAAAAAmg/mCj2XGOUeEI8wjCNHiPQX12DN2EMAdl0gCLcBGAs/s640/look3.jpg" width="640" height="426" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--XaXRjGs5hE/Wa_5pm8v8qI/AAAAAAAAAms/rPDy08qdaaQzAbScyo89vmOjEcOhKmifwCLcBGAs/s1600/look4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--XaXRjGs5hE/Wa_5pm8v8qI/AAAAAAAAAms/rPDy08qdaaQzAbScyo89vmOjEcOhKmifwCLcBGAs/s640/look4.jpg" width="640" height="426" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-73462123101068268232017-09-06T06:30:00.000-07:002017-09-06T06:30:01.593-07:00Bluff Mountain Ride ReportHere's my ride report for Bluff Mountain in Tennessee. I was able to find a few pictures plus a YouTube video that shows a motorcycle on this route.<br />
<br />
My first ride of the trip was to Bluff Mountain and the surrounding area. I did this on Sunday, August 20, 2017. I began my ride with my first descent of the road that ended at our cabin. I had never descended a grade as steep as this on a road bike. From my mountain biking days I was very familiar with having to lean way back on the bike on such descents on trails but now I had to actually do this on a road. I began to get familiar with the technique of braking hard right before the switchback turn and then easing through the turn. I could then let off the brakes for a brief period and repeat the procedure.<br />
<br />
I got down to route 321 and took a right. This road not only has a very small shoulder but signs warning cars about the steep drop-off in most places from the shoulder. At least the pavement had been recently redone and was perfect. I left at 7:30AM so didn’t encounter too much traffic as I proceeded to Russie Gap Road 7 miles into the ride. Parts of this section were steep enough that I could take the lane going around 40MPH and there were a few entertaining twists to the road as well. Russie Gap Road became Goose Gap and then Bluff Mountain Road. I could see from Google street view and the mapped route that there would be plenty of switchbacks on the actual mountain. The climbing didn’t really get serious until about 10 miles into the ride. The switchbacks began about a mile later and continued pretty much to the top at 13 miles. I only encountered a single vehicle. I had amazing views to take my mind off the climbing. The sun was still rising over mist filled valleys and I was in awe. I thought to myself that this is a route that you would see in road cycling magazines that promote great travel locations. I savored every minute.<br />
<br />
I got to the T-junction where I had originally planned to turn around but I could see that the pavement was good in both directions so why not stay up on the ridge as long as possible? I first went left and did the loop taking Dupont Springs Road and then Duncan Springs Road. There were some delightful twists and continued incredible views. I got back to the T-junction and then went the other way on the ridge taking East End Road and then doing the small loop with Top Road. I hadn’t expected to able to ride this much up on a ridge so this was a pleasant surprise. I again got back to the T-junction and then began the descent the way I came up on Bluff Mountain Road.<br />
<br />
I followed my plan and took the right on Tower Road which led to the fire tower and another small loop with Green Top and Horse Gap roads. I not only regained all the elevation I just lost but went a bit higher topping out at 3061 feet by the tower. I returned to Bluff Mountain Road continuing the descent until taking another right on Summit Trails Drive. It regains a bit of altitude before plunging down to Waldens Creek Road. By this time I was starting to get the hang of descending steep switchbacks better. I was not used to scrubbing so much speed on descents. I knew my average speed was going to take a severe hit but I enjoyed the new experience. It was fun to establish a rhythm from switchback to switchback.<br />
<br />
I took the right on Waldens which eventually turns into E Millers Cove Road that continues all the way to 321. This section did not have the very steep climbing of Bluff Mountain but was not flat at all either. Most of it was very quiet and I went long stretches seeing no cars at all. By this time, the temperature had risen considerably and I was getting low on water. I wasn’t sure what I would find when I popped out on the other side on 321 so began looking for a water source. I passed a church that had apparently just finished its service and I saw some people in the parking lot. I asked them if I could use the faucet on the side of the church which they allowed me to do. This water replenishment plus two energy gels would be enough for the ride. So I came out to 321 and did notice a store but now there was no need to stop. I reversed direction continuing past Summit Trails to taking a right on Old Valley. This was the road I had taken getting to Bluff Mountain earlier. I retraced my way on 321 now ascending. The traffic was heavier but drivers were very respectful and patiently waited when they had to.<br />
<br />
I arrived back at Robeson Road that led to the cabin. This would be my first time doing this crazy ascent. I am loathe to stop on any climb. I really wondered though if I was going to be able to make it without doing so. I tried but when my heart rate completely maxed out to the point where I was getting shaky on the bike, I had to stop. I didn’t walk any of it but did stop a couple of times to let my heart rate come down. I stopped on switchbacks and since there were no cars, I could get started again by aiming my bike directly across the road before pointing it upward. At times I had to lean forward to keep my front wheel on the pavement. It still came up a couple of times. I made it back to the cabin with a huge smile on my face having done a new form of road cycling that I had only imagined up to this point. This was my first ride having finally attained the gold standard of climbing: 100 feet per mile.<br />
<br />
Stats:<br />
Miles: 58.59<br />
Time: 3:50:17<br />
Average Speed: 15.27<br />
Max Speed: 44 MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 6193 feet = 105.70 feet per mile<br />
Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/24679304<br />
Motorcycle video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gluYVJL3DFw&t=107s<br />
Google street view: https://www.google.com/…/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sun2NpEHcALG2Hi…<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5M8x-3Mp4o/Wa_4RhdOWZI/AAAAAAAAAmM/8GdAVYspDCY6PA2RPhFN52oHboBBF9zkACLcBGAs/s1600/bluff1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y5M8x-3Mp4o/Wa_4RhdOWZI/AAAAAAAAAmM/8GdAVYspDCY6PA2RPhFN52oHboBBF9zkACLcBGAs/s640/bluff1.jpg" width="640" height="479" data-original-width="550" data-original-height="412" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Df6k9vs7yAc/Wa_4Rn7E91I/AAAAAAAAAmI/9asSRVpJsnAOzK2FdVKvLzJK3XublHWjACLcBGAs/s1600/bluff2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Df6k9vs7yAc/Wa_4Rn7E91I/AAAAAAAAAmI/9asSRVpJsnAOzK2FdVKvLzJK3XublHWjACLcBGAs/s640/bluff2.jpg" width="640" height="479" data-original-width="550" data-original-height="412" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_SflKni2jo8/Wa_4R193lRI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/QeVW4NUAulE5lOHiaUlvPDgKJJCe6QWOACLcBGAs/s1600/bluff3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_SflKni2jo8/Wa_4R193lRI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/QeVW4NUAulE5lOHiaUlvPDgKJJCe6QWOACLcBGAs/s640/bluff3.jpg" width="640" height="465" data-original-width="583" data-original-height="424" /></a><br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-39289017516477242152017-09-06T06:25:00.000-07:002017-09-06T06:25:22.330-07:00Clingman's Dome Ride ReportWe just got back from one of the best vacations. We had a family reunion in Tennessee timed to coincide with the solar eclipse of 8/21/2017. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the eclipse and spending time with so many family members. There was more to the vacation for me. I brought along my bike and was able to experience riding unlike any that I’ve done before. I’ve done mountain riding before but not on this scale. It was a treat that I’ll never forget. I was able to do three rides totaling 206 miles. I didn’t have a laptop nor a smart-phone to post earlier. I’ll post more about the vacation later but for tonight I’m recounting the best ride of the three (the other two were almost as good) but my ride to the top of Clingman’s Dome was particularly special.<br />
<br />
Smoky Mountain National Park was closed the day of and the day before the eclipse so I couldn’t do the ride when we first arrived. I ended up doing this on Friday, August 25th – the day before we left. However, on the Thursday, we all drove up to the top of Clingman’s Dome taking the very route that I would cycle the next day. This allowed me to check out the roads as well as take some pictures from the top that I wouldn’t be able to do when cycling. We arrived just before sunset and saw some spectacular views.<br />
<br />
Our cabin was aptly named Above the Clouds and it sits about 1000 feet above route 321 less than three miles below! Almost 1000 feet of that is gained in just over a mile! So, as with all rides from the cabin, mine started with an extremely steep and twisty descent having to brake heavily. I then popped out on 321 which has excellent pavement but very little shoulder. I was only on this briefly before taking the left onto Line Springs Road. There’s a bit of really steep climbing but then things moderate comparatively. I took the left onto Little River Gorge Road which becomes Fighting Creek Gap Road. Eventually it comes out to Sugarland Visitor Center at the intersection of route 441. The only potential drawback to the Clingman’s Dome ride is that route 441 doesn’t have much of a shoulder and it can get lots of traffic. I could see from the night before though that the road was fairly wide. I was able to get an early start of 7AM from the cabin so it was still fairly early even by the time I reached 441. This intersection begins about 20 miles of almost all climbing! I had never done such an extended climb before.<br />
<br />
As I hoped, the traffic was pretty light going up and drivers were very respectful almost to a fault as some were very hesitant to pass me even when there was ample opportunity. Some motorcyclists gave me the thumbs up as they passed and I even noticed a passenger in a car also do this. They probably don’t see cyclists doing this very often and I appreciated their encouragement. I stopped thrice briefly to stretch. I passed through two tunnels but both were short and didn’t present too much of a lighting problem. After about 13 miles of climbing, I took the right onto Clingman’s Dome Road. Here the traffic was even less. The temperature had dropped some but it was not too cold. I picked the perfect day because it wasn’t too hot anywhere nor too cold. I reached the top and there didn’t appear to be any place to get water and I was almost out so I didn’t spend much time up there. I had spent quite a long time the night before so didn’t feel like I needed to plus it was mostly in the clouds.<br />
<br />
Then began the riotous descent with an added twist of excitement! I’ve done many high speed descents but this one was different because of the turns involved. I didn’t reach the speeds of other ones but the turns made for an even more exciting experience. I didn’t have to brake but just felt comfortable enough to lean into the turns at speed. What a feeling to experience the sensation of weight as I put my body into the turns! There were very few cars but I did manage to catch up to pickup truck and after tailing it for a bit, I decided to pull over and let it go so it wouldn’t spoil anymore of the descent. I did this but then I saw it again but it wasn’t moving. It was parked in the middle of the road along with another car on the opposite side. I knew instantly that they must be stopped to watch wildlife and I was pretty sure what kind. Sure enough – a woman was halfway out the passenger window taking picture of a bear! I was about 50 feet behind the cars and watch the good-sized black bear amble away from the side of the road. Eventually the pick-up drove off and the other car came in my direction. It stopped and the woman driving it warned me about the bear AND its two cubs! I couldn’t see the cubs from my vantage point. I waited a bit longer and then decided to just go for it. I pedaled past and fortunately there was no pursuit.<br />
<br />
I got out on 441 and then experienced another 13 miles of superb descending on such an amazing road with incredible scenery everywhere. I made it back to Sugarland where I was able to refill my water bottles. There was a bit of headwind but I still caught up to cars twice and pulled over to give myself free space.<br />
<br />
By this time, there was much more traffic but because I was now descending, I could take the whole lane so it really didn’t matter. When I got back on Fighting Gap road, there was a surprising amount of traffic even there but I had no incidents. That last two miles to the cabin was brutal! I didn’t walk any of it but did have to stop a couple of times. My heart-rate was completely maxed out. At 112.90 feet per mile, this was the most climbing I've ever done.<br />
<br />
My mapping software that I use for my cycling routes, ridewithgps.com, has a glitch and it won’t allow me to map past the halfway point of Clingman’s Dome Road. So the accompanying route map is missing the last four miles to the top. I was able to get the exact elevation gain though by seeing that the road ends at 6292 feet so I was able to accurately ascertain my climbing for the route. I’m attaching some pictures taken the night before.<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JFNPKrvL5E/Wa_3FkpJjPI/AAAAAAAAAlo/4oDNUQQwl2YYh1T6CRvDJMdW_P7Icf_BACLcBGAs/s1600/clingman1.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9JFNPKrvL5E/Wa_3FkpJjPI/AAAAAAAAAlo/4oDNUQQwl2YYh1T6CRvDJMdW_P7Icf_BACLcBGAs/s400/clingman1.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CNO5IUgDXuw/Wa_3FhtQTpI/AAAAAAAAAls/MmZkIx8p77U9pzNhhT2X93FaZh29Jd-VwCLcBGAs/s1600/clingman2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CNO5IUgDXuw/Wa_3FhtQTpI/AAAAAAAAAls/MmZkIx8p77U9pzNhhT2X93FaZh29Jd-VwCLcBGAs/s400/clingman2.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0IJA4HtJfR0/Wa_3FrZKR5I/AAAAAAAAAlw/jVX2wSV1zFogeVybEXwpqjHHsnYr0OoVgCLcBGAs/s1600/clingman3.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0IJA4HtJfR0/Wa_3FrZKR5I/AAAAAAAAAlw/jVX2wSV1zFogeVybEXwpqjHHsnYr0OoVgCLcBGAs/s400/clingman3.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UD_3vHyNeVI/Wa_3F8FxaHI/AAAAAAAAAl0/-QNzRnC-FAgvWsBlnJzFzk0COLSkgJCCwCLcBGAs/s1600/clingman4.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UD_3vHyNeVI/Wa_3F8FxaHI/AAAAAAAAAl0/-QNzRnC-FAgvWsBlnJzFzk0COLSkgJCCwCLcBGAs/s400/clingman4.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BIRc6DuGSD0/Wa_3F2rsFPI/AAAAAAAAAl4/ScPWWTzte6k3b5z7mnl2mZqv1EHnyswfwCLcBGAs/s1600/clingman5.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BIRc6DuGSD0/Wa_3F2rsFPI/AAAAAAAAAl4/ScPWWTzte6k3b5z7mnl2mZqv1EHnyswfwCLcBGAs/s400/clingman5.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Crw440vHOUY/Wa_3H7cCUhI/AAAAAAAAAmA/Y14Eo10adZkezNuVPBcLZklEZdGWWU97gCLcBGAs/s1600/clingman6.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Crw440vHOUY/Wa_3H7cCUhI/AAAAAAAAAmA/Y14Eo10adZkezNuVPBcLZklEZdGWWU97gCLcBGAs/s400/clingman6.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZDhcpD7xfY/Wa_3GIbEnPI/AAAAAAAAAl8/b76nOuGEW-8gzL673-wdC0ZsT12WQcCWQCLcBGAs/s1600/clingman7.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dZDhcpD7xfY/Wa_3GIbEnPI/AAAAAAAAAl8/b76nOuGEW-8gzL673-wdC0ZsT12WQcCWQCLcBGAs/s400/clingman7.jpg" width="400" height="266" data-original-width="1600" data-original-height="1065" /></a><br />
Stats for the ride:<br />
Miles: 73.09<br />
Time: 4:46:54<br />
Average Speed: 15.29<br />
Max Speed: 45 MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 8252 feet = 112.90 feet per mile<br />
Route (missing the last 4 miles to the top): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/24679712Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-51658502748963648952017-07-04T11:55:00.001-07:002017-07-04T11:55:08.075-07:004NaaP Ride Report - 6/28/2017The predicted chances for rain in Lincoln had dropped a bit yesterday but by this morning it was back up to 45%. Soon after I got on route 93 and I could first see the mountains in the distance, I saw they were already ensconced in dark clouds. I knew there would be very little chance of completing the ride dry today. It was a gamble I thought worth taking.<br />
<br />
I arrived at the Subway in Lincoln around 10. I ordered a 6 inch chicken sub and a cookie. I downed them quickly and then proceeded to the Visitor Center. I kitted up and began the ride at 10:25. It was 65 degrees. A few short miles brought me to the Kinsman ascent with the wind mainly against me. I took the climb conservatively knowing the scope of the ride ahead of me. It didn’t feel that difficult. After cresting, I descended the other side. Against the wind, I topped out at just under 40MPH – the slowest I’ve done that descent. <br />
<br />
I could see dark clouds all around but was hoping I could somehow dodge the rain. I got on 116 but my luck ran out at mile 17 when I encountered a wet road. A mile later, I hit actual rain. The only virgin road on the route would be Wells Road followed by Kerr that connected to route 18. It only rained on me for about three miles but the roads were soaked. At this point I was a bit on the cold side as the temperature had dropped and I was in short sleeves. I was looking forward to the Franconia ascent to get warm. The climbing started on Kerr and then was quite consistent going up 18. This is the better way to take this road because the heaves and cracks are no issue going uphill. I again took the climb at a measured pace. It wasn’t too difficult.<br />
<br />
I reached the top and got on the bike path that connects to route 3. I didn’t see a single person on it. I had warmed up at this point. The rain was stopped but I still got spray from the wet path and then on route 3. The road stayed wet for about ¾ of the way to Twin Mountain. This was a good place to make up some time. I didn’t go all out but kept a good pace. I wasn’t sure where I was going to stop in Twin Mountain but knew that I only wanted to make one stop for the whole ride. I ended up going to the store on the left just before the intersection with route 302. I might have actually overdid my food intake. I was hoping for some real food like a sandwich but didn’t see any. I instead got chocolate covered pretzels, a large Snickers bar, a protein bar, Powerade and water. I was determined to not bonk later on so I sat on a chair on the porch of the store and ate it all. It was well over 1000 calories.<br />
<br />
As I pulled away, I again felt cold but once I started on 302, the sun came out intermittently and I warmed up. The wind was behind me at this point and I made good time over to the gentle ascent of Crawford. My first thought when I encountered the rain on the other side was that I’d likely ride out of it and hopefully get dry roads on the Crawford side. This is what happened fortunately. The Crawford descent was the crown jewel of the ride for me. I had done it twice before and found it to be extremely fun. After summiting, I looked behind me and saw a pickup pulling a large trailer a ways behind. I was determined to not let in interfere with my descent. The angle of the descent was such that I caught a fair amount of headwind but I poured my energy into the pedals on the curvy part in the beginning and I could see the truck was further behind. I then gave a final push and got in a tuck while taking the lane. There weren’t many people around. I saw a group over to the left by the waterfall but they showed no signs of venturing near the road. I topped out at 52.16MPH – my slowest of the three descents due to the wind – but still more than enough to put in that special place that I find going over 50 provides. I let out a couple of “F___ yeah’s” while keeping my speed as high as possible. The truck was way behind at this point.<br />
<br />
This section of 302 is fun all the way down to Bartlett because of it being all downhill. I mostly had the wind behind me today also. I put out pretty high watts but still reined it in some knowing that I had two big climbs to go. I passed the 60 mile point as I was starting the Bear ascent and saw that my average speed at that point was 18.88. I knew I’d lose some of that but was hoping it wouldn’t be too much. The Bear ascent is so steady that you can just get in a groove and pound it out. I encountered a brief shower here but not enough to really wet the road. The descent on the other side really isn’t steep except for a bit at the end where I did get up to 46MPH.<br />
<br />
At this point in the ride, I was still feeling good. I thinking fueling sufficiently is very important on long rides, especially ones with lots of climbing. Better to over-fuel than to take a chance on your body not having enough. I get out on the Kancamagus and was able to keep a decent pace on the flat part. It wasn’t long though before I could see in the distance a dark wall of clouds and I had heading right toward it. About half way up the steep part, the rain started and it came down quite hard. It didn’t affect my climbing any except that the wind also picked up and especially as I got near the summit, I could feel it against me. Particularly at this point in my ride, this climb seemed to go on a long time. I just wanted to get it over with but I think my apprehension about the coming descent caused it to seem longer.<br />
<br />
I finally crested over the pass. All I can say is that the descent utterly sucked. The pavement is not good for one thing so even in dry conditions, it requires care but now it was not only wet but recently wet and I could see what appeared to be little bubbles that sometimes pop up when pavement first gets wet and the water mixes with the oil on the road. To make things worse, the temperature had dropped and I was soaking wet. I couldn’t stop shivering and this movement caused the bike to not be as steady as it normally would be. Those first few steep twists were kind of scary. I didn’t dare brake too hard but had to very careful cornering. After the steepest part had passed, things got somewhat better. After the hairpin turn, I felt more confident to let my speed run out some. For one thing, it was warmer and I wasn’t shivering as much. I had some pent up angst and was able to unleash that by hammering the remaining distance back to Lincoln. I passed a few cyclists on this stretch.<br />
<br />
I pulled into the Visitor Center relieved and feeling a nice sense of accomplishment as this was my longest solo ride. So, I got wet twice but I’m still glad I seized this day. There were positives to the weather. There was no risk of overheating. Also, the crowds were sparse everywhere on the route. Even on the Kanc, I would go long stretches without seeing any cars. This loop is definitely a keeper and I hope to do it at least once per year going forward.<br />
<br />
Stats:<br />
Miles: 91.71<br />
Time: 5:00:59<br />
Average Speed: 18.28<br />
Max Speed: 52.16MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 6565 feet = 71.58 feet per mile<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-26924764374023062582017-07-04T11:53:00.003-07:002017-07-04T11:53:38.548-07:00Hurricane Mountain Ride Report - 6/14/2017I got to Storyland just before 11:00 and was on the road by 11. There was more wind than I expected and I was going straight into it as I headed north on route 16. I prefer to ride with the wind to start if possible as it takes me a while to get into a rhythm but this was the situation today and I was against the wind all the way to Gorham. The Pinkham Notch climb is not particularly hard but I was exposed to the non-stop wind so it was a tougher slog than usual. I did enjoy the beautiful views of the Presidential Range to my left. I noticed there were still some snow fields on Washington.<br />
<br />
Route 16 had been recently repaved from Dolly Copp to Gorham. I made my one stop to refuel at the Cumberland Farms there. It was only about 22 miles into the route so I was able to get away with just one bottle up to that point. I got Powerade, water and a protein bar. I resumed my ride now on route 2. This is not a pleasant road for cycling as there is a small shoulder and trucks pass frequently. I was only on it for about four miles though until I got to the left for North Road. I now had the wind more behind me and did not see a single car until I came out back on route 2 about 11 miles down the road. I do not use a GPS but rely on printed maps still. I took a wrong turn on Meadow but soon corrected my error. I really started to enjoy the ride more on North road as it passes through idyllic settings with zero cars.<br />
I popped out on route 2 very briefly and then took 113 heading to Evans Notch. There was only one car that passed me on the whole ascent. With the wind behind me, I was riding close to 19MPH until the final steeper part leading to the notch itself. I stopped briefly there. The view is beautiful and very peaceful. I ate a Cliff gel there and readied myself for the descent. I had only climbed Evans Notch from the other direction before so this would be my first time doing the descent in this direction. All I can say is that it’s a descent that begs to be ripped! First, the surroundings are kind of unique. There’s a thick canopy of forest that makes it feel like you’re in a tunnel of sorts. Add in the perfect pavement and total absence of cars and just the right about of turns. Still, since it was my first time from this direction, I did brake some and only maxed out at 47MPH.<br />
<br />
I had a nice adrenaline buzz at the bottom and continued still with the wind behind me on 113 (Stow Road). Again, this stretch of road was almost totally devoid of cars. Only one passed me in the stretch all the way to South Chatham Road. This road connects to Green Hill Road which eventually leads to the right onto Hurricane Mountain Road. I ate my last gel shortly before this. This ascent of Hurricane Mountain Road would be the big challenge of this ride. I had done the ascent from the other direction once before and had to stop twice because it was so hard. I HATED that and was determined to not let it happen from this side. The climb is rated a category 2 according to Strava. I approached it conservatively as I think part of the problem last time was doing too much standing early and my heart-rate went through the roof. This time I only stood when I had to due to its insane steepness. There were sections where you’d look ahead and just gasp at what appeared to be a wall in front of you (the sign says the climb is 17% grade). I’m happy to say I cleaned it this time with no stopping. I didn’t stop at the summit either but proceeded with the descent of the other side. Unlike the Evans Notch descent, this one did not beg to be ripped at all! The pavement is full of bumps and heaves. It addition to the steep grade the road twists constantly. I only let my speed run out to 30MPH and tried to give my rims even just seconds to cool down. I have to say, it was still a fun descent requiring constant attention to handling the bike as the corners are even sharper on this side.<br />
<br />
I made to the bottom and came out on route 16. But did I continue on it using the quickest route back to Storyland? NO! I took the right onto 16A which leads to Thorn Hill Road. This was new territory for me. My legs were pummeled from the Hurricane ascent but I was ready for more punishment. This hill is 13% grade and I had to do a few more linked track stands at times again. I had also run out of water. But as Doug Jansen points out, no epic ride is truly great until it crosses over into death march territory. I finally made it to the top of Thorn Hill. The descent was okay but since it was my first time on the road, I had to hold it to 42MPH (speed limit was 25). I came to the end, took the left and went through a covered bridge before getting back on route 16. I emptied the tank on this last section back to Storyland. Now with the wind behind me, I topped out at 44MPH on the descent approaching the parking lot.<br />
<br />
I got back to the car and grabbed the gallon of spring water. Water at 85 degrees never tasted so good. I took many gulps before I did anything else.<br />
<br />
Stats:<br />
Miles: 76.87<br />
Time: 4:41:31<br />
Average Speed: 16.38<br />
Max Speed: 47MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 5479 feet = 71.28 feet per mile<br />
<br />
This was my slowest mountain ride ever. Not sure what to say except that the 22 mile stretch into a strong wind to start was hard to overcome. I was at 17.6 before the Hurricane ascent. That really did a number on things. I’m still pleased with the ride and especially feel accomplished to have cleaned the toughest ascent in my cycling career.<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-52685706972637454152017-07-04T11:52:00.000-07:002017-07-04T11:52:10.581-07:00Kinsman Ride Report - 9/21/2016Kinsman Ride Report<br />
<br />
I had one of those experiences when time slows way down and milliseconds are stretched to a crazy degree. I was about 35 miles into my ride, not going fast, perhaps low 20s along route 302 when a deer jumped out in front of me. The vegetation was very thick and I had no warning. It was literally no more than 10-15 feet in front of me. I had no time to react at all. All I did was look to my left as I simultaneously heard the screech of skidding tires and then a sickening thud and crunch as a pickup truck coming the opposite way collided with the large female deer. The truck left half of its front bumper in the middle of the road and, incredibly, just kept going.<br />
<br />
Not only did I just miss the deer as it crossed in front of me, but the body then ricocheted off the truck back towards me landing in my lane probably 20 feet behind where my bike was. I remember instinctively ducking my head and expecting some kind of impact. I didn’t know if there was a car in my lane behind me or not. Fortunately there wasn’t. The whole episode took only seconds but every tiny part I distinctly remember.<br />
<br />
I crossed the road and got off my bike. Another pickup had now pulled over and the driver asked if I was okay. He then started walking back to the carcass of the deer. It must have been killed instantly as I waited about five minutes to collect myself and it never moved.<br />
<br />
It was a weird feeling to have had such a close call. I was a little shaken but continued with my ride. To go back a bit, my ride had gone well up to that point. I brought a different bike than the previous two times I had ascended Kinsman Notch heading west over its steepest part. This one had a low gear of 39X27 rather than 39X28 that I had had the previous two times. That did make a difference as I found I had to stand for the steepest part which was a 12.7% grade. I crested not feeling too bad though and continued down the other side into a slight headwind. I topped out at 42MPH. I then took the left onto route 116. It had been beautifully repaved all the way down to where it joins route 10. They were still doing some work on it and I had to stop at one point and then was instructed to continue in the opposite lane. There were three steeper sections that comprised the descent to route 10. On the first two I topped out at 41 and the last one at 43. That last section was particularly nice as there is a beautiful expansive view that I took in as I enjoyed the perfect pavement under my tires.<br />
<br />
I then continued on route 10 which is also route 302 for part of the traverse over to route 117 (Sugar Hill Road). My deer incident occurred about four miles before the turn onto 117. About two miles before turning onto 117, I stopped at a Dollar General and refueled with Powerade, Kit Kats and Snickers with almonds. They had a bubbler there with excellent water so I didn’t need to buy any. I asked the cashier about how often they see deer and she said that it happens often. There was a sign several miles before this but it only warned of moose crossings.<br />
<br />
I really enjoyed Sugar Hill Road (route 117). Not a single car passed me on my side of the road as I made my way over to route 18 and Franconia. The wind was now behind me and it helped with the climb up to the village. I passed a cyclist on the way and warned him about deer!<br />
<br />
The descent into Franconia is enjoyable also. I topped out at 45MPH as I neared the T junction. There was plenty of time to slow down as I was cognizant of what was coming.<br />
After briefly being on route 18, I took a right onto route 116 making my way back to route 112. I stopped briefly to consume the last of my Snickers and then began the ascent on this side of Kinsman Notch. It’s easier than the other side plus the wind, what there was of it, was behind me. My favorite part of the ride was now coming up: the descent of the other side of Kinsman. I had already set a speed record of 56.5MPH here the last time I did this so while I pedaled pretty hard into it, I didn’t go crazy. My speed this time was 54MPH which made it the third fastest for me. My bike was rock steady with nary a wiggle as I kept my body still with a light grip on the bars. It was exhilarating for sure but honestly, after the deer incident, my body was already loaded with adrenaline and I think it affected me less than other times. I finished the ride back to the Visitors’ Center and emptied my tank on what was mostly downhill riding.<br />
<br />
Final Stats:<br />
Miles: 70.36<br />
Time: 3:48:47<br />
Average Speed: 18.45 MPH<br />
Max Speed: 54 MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 4716 feet = 67.03 feet per mile<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-54548011619008809662016-07-04T09:29:00.002-07:002016-07-04T09:30:19.891-07:00Ride Report for July 3, 2016: Bow Lake: 126/Wingate/Holmes/Pitman/N Barnstead/Cook/Berry/Birch Hill to Coburn Woods out and backI had one of my best “adventure” bike rides in a while yesterday. I decided to hit some new roads in the Bow Lake/Strafford NH area. I knew I’d probably hit gravel and some of the roads were indeed that surface.<br />
<br />
I’ve never liked gravel riding and particularly on new gravel roads, I took it very carefully on my way to my destination. Level or uphill riding is not an issue but I’m inclined to wuss out on descents on that surface. I had about 8 miles of unknown road before I’d connect with previously ridden areas. I wondered how long the gravel would continue. There were washboard sections with very high levels of vibration that took some getting used to.<br />
<br />
I pressed on and was rewarded when after about 3 miles of gravel, the road surface switched to pavement, and not just any pavement but a perfectly smooth and pristine type. I soon began to climb and reached the aptly named Ridge Top road. I felt a surge of adrenaline mixed with wonder as I saw the road drop precipitously in front of me. I felt like I was in the middle of nowhere looking across a valley to another ridge on the horizon. As I began the descent, more of the road came into view and I could see it was a plummet as far as I could see. It was straight, however, with a clear sight-line so I lowered myself into a tuck and enjoyed almost 1.5 miles of this steep descent at over 10% grade. I had the wind against me so only topped out at 47MPH but it was very enjoyable.<br />
<br />
I rejoined previously known roads and then went a little further into new territory before turning around to go back the way I came. On Birch Hill road, I saw a mother deer and a baby fawn on the side of the road. They ran along the road for a bit before exiting into the woods. Before long, I now had to climb that long hill that I had just descended. I enjoyed the challenging climb and then took the descent the other way from Ridge Top road. This wasn’t quite as steep at 9% but I had the wind with me so I hit 47 here also. I then came to the gravel again but took it more aggressively this way because I knew what was coming. As much as I tried to avoid all the rocks I could, I inevitably hit some but my tires held. I had inflated them to just over 100 pounds knowing I would be on this surface. That pressure affords less grip but protects against pinch flats. I ended up going over 30 on some of the gravel descents which is a new speed for me. By the end of the gravel, I had even begun to enjoy the challenge of it<br />
.<br />
I finished the ride on familiar roads including the Parker Mountain descent. I thought the wind was going to be behind me but it was at an angle and I only managed 50. I was hoping to break 51 which was the fastest I had reached previously on this particular descent.<br />
<br />
All the newness and exciting terrain produced one of the best flow states I’ve had cycling. My world shrunk to a hyper focus of my environment and the bike.<br />
<br />
Final Stats:<br />
Distance: 48.87 miles<br />
Time: 2:54:37<br />
Average Speed: 16.79MPH<br />
Max Speed: 50MPH<br />
Elevation Gain: 3926 feet = 80.34 feet per mile<br />
<br />
That glacial average speed can be partially attributed to my braking on the gravel. I'm confident that next time on this route, I'll brake far less. This is also my first route in which I exceeded 80 feet per mile. Not quite at the Hill Junkie - Doug Jansen - 100 feet per mile stamp of approval but closer! I fully subscribe to the maxim that the higher you go (in elevation gain), the "higher" you'll get in endorphins.<br />
<br />
The route:<br />
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14860584Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-85410230089623415442016-06-16T11:32:00.002-07:002016-07-04T09:27:59.191-07:00Ride Report for May 29, 2016 - Bow Lake<br />
<br />
We went up to Bow Lake, NH today. As usual, I brought my bike and this time had a new route planned with almost all roads I had never ridden before. The first 15 miles were on numbered routes but then I was veering into the back country.<br />
<br />
I knew from past experience that I could just about be guaranteed to hit gravel roads. I did but the first few miles of such were not bad. I always prefer pavement but these were in most cases well-packed. There was one point where I missed a turn because it really wasn't a road that my map claimed was there. It was more of a path. I realized I was off course and looked for someone for help. A nice man stopped his mower when I approached him and used his phone GPS to show me where I was and how to get back to my mapped course. The site I used to map my ride isridewithgps.com. It doesn't distinguish between gravel and paved. It also doesn't distinguish between gravel and path!<br />
<br />
I was soon back on pavement and on route 43. From there I took a slight short-cut and missed the very beginning of Old Mountain road. I found out later that there is prominent sign there that says "No Outlet". Not knowing this, I followed my route and did the anticipated relatively steep 12% climb. After reaching the apex, I began the descent only to notice gravel ahead. I slowed. It wasn't long before the gravel turned into a rocky and muddy "road" with roots. I had 2 more miles to go on my planned route before I'd reach the next road.<br />
<br />
Soon, the road narrowed into what was really a path. I didn't have great confidence riding a road bike and being clipped in. I did all my mountain biking not using clipless pedals. I got into a rutted section and all of sudden low branches forced me to try to get out of it and I was unable to unclip in time. I was hardly moving but I tipped over on my left side hurting my wrist and some ribs. Not terribly so but it knocked the wind out of me.<br />
<br />
I carried on because I really didn't know how to get back without continuing to follow this route. My phone doesn't have GPS. The path dipped sharply and was barely ride-able. I decided to press on but as I went a little further there was a gate. I could see that after the gate the path had devolved into something I wouldn't attempt. There was overgrown grass about waist-high and mud everywhere. It looked like it had been used very little by even walkers.<br />
<br />
Now I was faced with a dilemma as my printed out maps didn't show me alternate ways to get back. I decided to reverse direction to the point of reaching the apex again of the steep hill and hoped to have cell phone service. I did and was able to place a call to ask for directions. It turned out that route 43 would intersect with where I needed to go so it didn't take long for me to get back. That descent on Old Mountain road was very twisty, steep and technical. I took it conservatively as my nerves were somewhat shot from the recent difficulties. I made it back the rest of the way without incident though my lift shifter wasn't working that well because I had landed on it.<br />
<br />
Today's ride was certainly an adventure. Gravel roads I can take but paths that prevent following your planned route are not pleasant and not something I enjoy on a road bike. I might try a variation of this route again but will know what to avoid. It was still an enjoyable experience very much out of my ordinary day to day routine. I saw some nice remote areas that I've never been to and got in lots of hilly riding - my preferred terrain for cycling.<br />
<br />
Final Stats:<br />
Distance: 41.03 miles<br />
Time: 2:18:22<br />
Average Speed: 17.79<br />
Max Speed: 42.0<br />
Elevation Gain: 2594 feet = 63.22 feet per mile<br />
<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-26025570481141879872016-06-16T11:27:00.000-07:002016-06-16T11:27:48.962-07:00Ride report for June 15, 2016<br />
From WMVC in Lincoln, NH: 112/116/18/142/302/3/bike path/18/116/112<br />
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14451694<br />
<br />
I experienced some firsts with this ride – my first time seeing a bear in the White Mountains and a new high speed record!<br />
<br />
The day didn’t start auspiciously as I woke at 4AM and knew I wouldn’t be able to get back to sleep. I tried to rest until 5 but then got up and made coffee. I left the house around 7 and pulled into Subway in Lincoln at around 9:30. I got a 6 inch chicken salad sub and a cookie. After polishing these off, I parked at the White Mountain Visitor Center. <br />
<br />
No matter what direction you take from this start, you’re going to face some steep climbing soon. It’s not ideal to eat this close to the start of the ride knowing this exertion is coming. I should perhaps eat on the way up instead. The route I planned would have a stop at about 29 miles at a store so this helped in that I only filled one water bottle and thus had less weight to climb with.<br />
<br />
After a few short miles I began my ascent of Kinsman Notch on 112 heading into a pretty stiff wind. It’s a tough way to start the ride but I didn’t find the climb quite as challenging as the one other time I did it. I was thinking already that if this wind held for my return trip, it would make for an interesting descent because then it would be with me!<br />
<br />
I crested the notch and pedaled quite hard into the descent but had the wind against me. I only topped out at just over 42MPH. At about 12 miles into the ride, I took the right onto route 116. It had been repaved. While it was definitely an improvement, I noticed that they had used a very thin coat of new pavement and cracks were already starting to form. <br />
<br />
I made it to the junction of route 18, took a right and then soon took a left onto route 142. There’s a considerable amount of climbing as this heads towards Bethlehem. I was on the last climb before reaching the apex when I saw movement perhaps 200 feet ahead of me on the road. At first I wasn’t sure what animal it was but it soon became apparent that this large and very furry creature was a bear! I didn’t really know what to do. There were no cubs behind it so I figured it probably would just continue on its way after crossing the road. I thought of stopping to wait a bit but really wanted to keep going. Route 142 is very quiet so I got over to the yellow line in the middle of the road. I’m not sure what those few feet away from the side would have really done but by now my adrenaline was pumping and I hauled up the rest of the climb, taking many looks behind me! I was not followed. I then saw a sign for the 11% grade descent that would take me into Bethlehem. I had taken this route before from the other direction so I knew this was coming. I had the wind behind me and was really hopped up on the adrenaline. I ended up maxing out at 49.17MPH and had plenty of time to slow down before coming to the stop light in town. I’d have to say that, after taking it in both directions, the best way to enjoy the vertical would be in this direction. When I took it the other way, the descent featured worse pavement and at the end I had to brake quite hard coming to the intersection with route 18.<br />
<br />
I stopped at the store in Bethlehem and between the bear encounter and that descent right afterwards, I was in an altered state. I had to really think of what I was doing in there. I grabbed some Gatorade, water, peanut butter M&M’s and an apple pastry. I filled both water bottles this time and downed the food. I was soon continuing on route 302. I had the wind behind me and there’s a nice 7% descent heading in this direction so it wasn’t long before I came to route 3. However, on the way I saw two moose in a bog to the right.<br />
<br />
I faced some wind on route 3 but the pavement is fantastic and it was a pleasant traverse. I had never taken the bike path before but saw the parking lot sign and underneath it a picture of a bike. There was no one else on the bike path so I wasn’t slowed in any way. It soon ended with route 18 beginning. I enjoyed the views of Cannon mountain as I approached and crossed route 93. This was all virgin road to me. I had been cautioned about the pavement on the descent on route 18. It’s marked as a 10% grade for 2 miles. I had the whole road to myself so could pick my line. I confess to some braking but still managed to almost reach 47MPH. There were some cracks in the pavement and some frost heaves to watch out for. The pavement wasn’t nearly as bad though as the Gonzo Pass descent on the other side of route 116. The downside to the not-so-great pavement is that I had to semi-stand to cushion the bumps and therefore couldn’t really rest my legs on the descent. I would say it was still a fun descent albeit one where you really need to be careful.<br />
<br />
I came back to route 116 and took the left. The wind was now more behind me. I arrived back on route 112 and took the left to begin the ascent of Kinsman Notch from this other side. It’s not nearly as bad from this direction at only 9% grade plus the wind was now behind me. I reached the summit and did not pause. I pedaled as hard as I could into the 12% grade descent knowing the wind was behind me. Time seemed to slow. I had the whole lane to myself and could feel my velocity swiftly increasing. I could sense I was in new territory speedwise. The wind swirled some and I was also now 70 miles into the ride so my legs weren’t as steady. About midway through the descent, I felt some shimmy. I didn’t panic though and calmly put both my legs against the top tube of my bike. This worked immediately to steady the bike completely. The descent went on but when I had finally slowed a fair amount, I looked at my computer: MAX SPEED 56.50MPH!!!! I was psyched as I had never been able to top the 55 I had done on this very descent way back in 2003. The rest of the ride was easy as I poured the last of my energy to finish back at the Visitor Center.<br />
<br />
Final Stats:<br />
Distance: 76.72 miles<br />
Time: 4:12:10<br />
Average Speed: 18.25<br />
Max Speed: 56.50<br />
Elevation Gain: 5309 feet = 69.20 feet per mile<br />
<br />
I’m not overly thrilled with that average speed but given the wind and the lack of sleep, it’s okay. With all the bad news going on the world, it was so nice to take a complete break and not think of anything else but the mountains and my bike! I’d highly recommend this route.<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-37555334064797772242015-10-22T11:14:00.001-07:002015-10-22T11:17:01.730-07:00Ride Report: Kanc from Conway/Bear Notch/302 to Crawford Notch summit - out and backI did this ride on September 16, 2015:<br />
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/10407151<br />
<br />
I have ridden all these roads before both ways except for Bear Notch which I had never ridden from Bartlett to the Conway side.<br />
<br />
I left MA around 8 and got to the Subway in Ossipee around 9:45. I got the same thing as last time - a six inch sub and a cookie. After polishing these off, I continued on to Conway and parked at the Rangers' station at the beginning of the Kancamagus. <br />
<br />
I started my ride just after 10:30. What an awesome day for a ride! It was warm but with low humidity. I could see far away peaks with clarity. The first 6 miles of the Kanc is still broken up pavement. After that, up to the turnoff to Bear Notch, the road had been redone with a new surface. It's chipseal, not my favorite surface as it seems to not be as fast and not as pleasant to ride on but at least it had no cracks. The breakdown lane was covered with some type of black material that looked sticky in places. I tried to avoid riding there when possible.<br />
<br />
I turned onto Bear Notch and the pavement is fantastic for almost the whole road. The climb wasn't too demanding. I hadn't ridden down the other side since 2002 so I didn't really remember it. Honestly, I was a bit disappointed as I thought it was going to be faster. I only just topped 40 once. There are some nice twists to the road but you're really not going fast enough to make them interesting. In fact, I burned more matches pedaling harder than I intended to try to get my speed up. It's a nice long descent though with very little car interference.<br />
<br />
I arrived in Bartlett and took the left onto 302. I debated whether to stop at a store about 7 miles from there. I still had liquid in both my bottles, water in one and a coke/Gatorade/water mix in the other. I decided not to stop feeling pretty confident that I could get water at the summit building of Crawford Notch. That was the right call. It's a steady climb but nothing too strenuous until the very end when you get some claimed 13% grade according to the sign. My ridewithgps track doesn't show it as being that steep. I stood for much of that portion. It definitely gets the heart rate up but I didn't have a sensation of wanting to throw up like I did on the steep side of Kinsman.<br />
<br />
I arrived at the summit and pedaled down a dirt path to find both a fountain and a faucet. I had a good drink and refilled both bottles. I almost immediately left to return the way I came. I hammered pretty hard going into the descent but I think I had a bit of headwind. I only tied my max of 52.64 MPH that I did last year. It's a fantastic descent though. I did have to watch carefully for the section by the waterfall. I saw a couple of guys on the right side of the road working on placing tripods. They were oblivious to me but didn't show any signs of going into the road. There were no cars at all so I had no issues taking the lane. There's something about the 50MPH barrier. I get a distinct sensation of flying once that is crossed.<br />
<br />
I continued down back to Bear Notch road now descending almost the whole way. I went fairly hard but didn't go all out knowing that I still had the Bear Notch ascent from the Bartlett side to do. My plan was to eat a GU packet after turning onto Bear Notch. I thought I had one in my seat bag but I didn't. I thought of hunting for a store in Bartlett but just decided to press on as I still had plenty of water and I had fueled the previous night and that morning very well.<br />
<br />
As mentioned this was my first ascent of Bear Notch from this side. I enjoyed the climb. It's very steady and you're able to get a nice rhythm going. My plan from the beginning was to bide my time before going all out. I knew the last 16 miles were almost all downhill so now was the time to empty my matchbook. The descent of Bear Notch on this side was a little faster - I topped out at 42. Again, a few twists but nothing where you really have to lean into the turns.<br />
<br />
I got back on the Kanc and hammered the rest. I unfortunately got a flat with 3 miles to go so that briefly interrupted things. It was mostly likely caused on the really crappy pavement.<br />
<br />
It was particularly nice to get a midweek ride in with so little traffic on all the roads. I generally prefer loops but this out and back was very satisfying.<br />
<br />
Final stats:<br />
71.67 miles<br />
3:46:16<br />
19.00 average<br />
52.64 max speed<br />
4293 feet elevation gain = 59.90 feet per mileJasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-70411807596861578962015-09-09T06:34:00.000-07:002015-09-09T06:34:03.627-07:00Ride Report: Lincoln: 112/302/Sugar Hill/18 Ridden on Friday September 4, 2015<br />
<br />
I enjoy cycling for many reasons both mental and physical. I live in an area that is pretty nice for road cycling as I can find quiet roads starting just a short distance from my house. I can ride routes that go along the ocean or go into forests often combining the two. The only thing that the area lacks is really steep and high hills. There’s rolling terrain and some short and pretty steep hills but nothing that could be considered mountainous. I’m generally content to ride directly from home and I know just about every piece of favorable road in all directions so I have a decent amount of variety. However, I need peak rides to be my “events” and the reward for so many hours spent cycling more mundane routes. I don’t race. The danger to body and equipment is just too high for my personal tastes. Instead, I enjoy heading to the mountains for long rides with lots of vertical.<br />
<br />
I use a site, ridewithgps.com, that allows me to plan routes so I know the mileage and elevation gain ahead of time. I’ve used this to create routes in places far from home like VT, NH, ME and central MA. I’ve ridden quite a bit of terrain in the White Mountains of NH but I had mapped out a route last year that covered lots of new roads and one that I had taken before but from a different direction. I began to bide my time to see when I could actually ride it.<br />
<br />
I had opportunities in August but the weather didn’t cooperate fully. If I’m going to drive up north, I pretty much need a day with very little chance of rain and preferably one that isn’t too hot. The available days last month had threats of showers that didn’t meet my criteria. Friday, September 4th though looked perfect even days ahead of time and it turned out to be so. I was able to get the day off work and avoid the greater amount of traffic connected to weekends and especially a holiday weekend.<br />
<br />
I awoke at 4:45AM and could feel adrenaline beginning to flow. I knew there was little chance I’d be getting back to sleep. I rested but got up about an hour later. I made coffee and had my breakfast. I took care to pack all the needed accessories. I left at 7:30 with only needing to pick up a gallon of water on my way north.<br />
<br />
I encountered little traffic and had an uneventful and fairly fast trip up to Lincoln, NH. My first stop was Subway. Unlike my previous ride up there when I got a foot-long sub, this time I went with just a six inch and a cookie. I had consumed a large chocolate bar on the way up and was fully fueled. Considering that I’d be doing some serious climbing shortly after commencing my ride, the six inch sub was the way to go. It’s not the best to do very vigorous activity after eating a large quantity of food. <br />
<br />
I ate quickly and then went to the White Mountain Visitors Center just a short distance away. It’s a great place to begin a ride as it provides safe parking and facilities for changing. I got into my cycling clothes and carefully packed my seat bag with the items I would need. A woman smoking a cigarette approached me and told me to move to another part of the lot if I was going to be leaving my car there for a few hours. She was rather rude, not bothering to say a simple thank you. Oh well, my mind was fully in ride mode at this point.<br />
<br />
I was off. I knew from the ride profile that after about a mile of flat, I’d be heading up, gradually at first, but then at a sustained level topping out at 13% grade. I tried to find the right pace. I usually don’t feel fully into the rhythm of rides until a good 30 minutes but I didn’t have that luxury this time. I wanted to hit the climb fairly hard but not blow up either. The 13% left me feeling nauseous but I didn’t stop and soon crested Kinsman Notch. This was the first time I had ascended from this side.<br />
<br />
There’s a bit of a flat section but I knew the descent on the other side was coming soon. I soft pedaled briefly in the flat and then pushed as hard as I could into the 9% descent finally getting into a low tuck. I had ascended this side twice before but this would be my first descent. I had a bit of wind behind me and was able to get close to 48MPH. There were a few comparatively gentle turns which added to the experience. This side isn’t as steep but it’s a longer downhill. Gradually the gradient eased but route 112 would be mostly descending all the way to joining route 10/302. It was pleasant riding as much of it was parallel to the Ammonoosuc River. I needed the recovery after that climb.<br />
<br />
Route 10/302 was okay. There was a bit more traffic here after experiencing almost none on 112. I collided with some large bug, perhaps a dragonfly, at 40+ MPH that left a stain on my shirt but other than that, it was smooth sailing as I passed through Bath and Lisbon arriving at route 117 (Sugar Hill Road) at just over 30 miles into the ride.<br />
<br />
I immediately began a long steady climb. It was nowhere near as steep as Kinsman Notch but it went on for about 6 miles topping out at around 6% grade. This was a beautiful area and road had almost zero traffic. I went through the small community of Sugar Hill and then began the descent. This is the steeper side with a grade of 8.4% at one point during its two miles. I was able to have the road to myself actually gaining on a car behind me for the first part before it passed me. The last section had some enjoyable twists as I stayed behind two cars while taking the full lane with my speed topping out at around 42. It ended in a T-junction at the intersection of route 116 in Lafayette.<br />
<br />
I took a left and did mostly climbing on 116/18 heading towards rejoining 302. The area continued to be picturesque and quiet. I passed two cyclists, one using a hand cycle. Back on 302 I was met with continuous traffic but the drivers were courteous and gave me plenty of room. There’s a mile long climb with a max grade of 7% before entering downtown Bethlehem. I stopped at a store that I knew from a previous ride at the 45.5 mile point of my ride. Two glazed cakes, each having 470 calories, Mountain Dew and water were my choices to refuel. I consumed the food and reloaded my water bottles quickly and resumed my ride before any stiffness could set in.<br />
<br />
That mile long climb now became a descent. The road wasn’t the best but I took the lane and was able to draft a car at a safe distance which gave me a top speed of 46. The left to get back on 302 quickly arrived and I was back to riding with no cars. It was mostly moderate descending to the 51 mile point of my ride where I took a right onto 116 leaving route 18. The next 11 miles featured gentle climbing before a brief descent that ended with me rejoining route 112 about 64 miles into my ride. Route 116 features some cracked pavement with a few sections that are graded. Hopefully, a full resurfacing will be in its future.<br />
<br />
I too the left back on 112. After a couple of miles of easy climbing, the grade kicked up to close to 9% as I reached the summit of Kinsman Notch again. This climb goes on for a while but I didn’t experience the feeling of wanting to throw up like I had on the other side. It’s quite monatomic which allows one to get into a steady rhythm and just grind it out.<br />
<br />
After summiting,I decided to pull over into the Beaver Brook lookout area where I consumed the last of my liquid and prepared for the final stretch of my ride. This would be the highlight for me and I wanted to mentally prep myself. I rolled down the ramp and got on 112 again. There’s a brief section that’s relatively flat before the plunge. I got out of the saddle and hammered. I could feel a light wind against me but I was determined to go as fast as possible down this side of Kinsman. The pavement is excellent and the road was empty. I pedaled until I spun out and then got into a tuck. Time seemed to slow as my world became the road, the wind, my bike and my concentration. I found the sensation to be a bit similar to the one time I sky-dived as I initially left the plane. There’s almost a sensation of falling as gravity takes hold and acceleration increases. The highest grade shows as 12.8%. I weaved through a couple of easy turns which are somewhat magnified at high speed. I could feel my speed lessen as I reached the lower portion which isn’t as steep. I checked my computer – 53.65MPH! This was slightly short of my all-time highest speed which I had achieved on this very descent back in 2003 but was still good enough for second fastest ever. What.A.Rush!! I felt sky-high as poured myself into the remainder of the ride with renewed vigor. I could feel the slight beginnings of cramping in my legs so I was ready to wrap up the ride as I pulled back into the Visitors Center.<br />
<br />
Everyone has activities that can produce “flow” states. Cycling, and mountain riding in particular, is what does it for me. For want of a better description, I felt “young” as I reveled in the afterglow of the ride during my drive home. I put on some meditative music which enhanced this state of reverie. All those training miles paid off and I felt great satisfaction in knowing that there would have been no way for me to do this ride without them.<br />
<br />
Now to plan the next one!<br />
<br />
Final Stats:<br />
76.36 miles<br />
4:10:18<br />
18.30 average<br />
5147 feet elevation gain = 67.40 feet per mile<br />
53.65 MPH max speed<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-83135542599588978322015-01-31T15:49:00.000-08:002015-01-31T15:49:09.265-08:00Hair UpdateJust documenting where my hair is currently...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkj1AAp4lC4/VM1ppv-MCAI/AAAAAAAAAio/JSaRIm8lQMI/s1600/013115-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vkj1AAp4lC4/VM1ppv-MCAI/AAAAAAAAAio/JSaRIm8lQMI/s320/013115-1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Rn14BH5U_U/VM1ppodCDmI/AAAAAAAAAiw/SzizfvaKuPs/s1600/013115-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Rn14BH5U_U/VM1ppodCDmI/AAAAAAAAAiw/SzizfvaKuPs/s320/013115-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OciZXrLBq_U/VM1ppgzTVFI/AAAAAAAAAis/8W5TNQ7bsGc/s1600/013115-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OciZXrLBq_U/VM1ppgzTVFI/AAAAAAAAAis/8W5TNQ7bsGc/s320/013115-3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GP3cmkXvBFk/VM1pp_KvWHI/AAAAAAAAAi0/Yld2Dwto1d8/s1600/013115-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GP3cmkXvBFk/VM1pp_KvWHI/AAAAAAAAAi0/Yld2Dwto1d8/s320/013115-4.jpg" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-3308376830081321782014-09-18T09:52:00.001-07:002014-09-22T12:22:30.215-07:002014 Epic RidesStoring some ride reports here:<br />
<br />
7/19/2014<br />
I know some here like to cycle route 100 on the section past Mt. Snow to route 30. I would strongly suggest you not ride it now! Almost that entire part is under construction and is gravel. Not the good type of dirt road but gravel with loose rocks and other obstacles plus the dust from cars passing by closely. I had done this descent last year and it was blast with speeds over 45MPH but this time I didn’t dare go much past 27 and it was a miserable grind. I had no choice to take it though as it was the concluding part of this loop:<br />
Bald Mountain option 3 - A bike ride in Townshend, VT<br />
<br />
<br />
Minus the construction, the loop was awesome! Take Grimes Hill road located about 5 miles from Bald Mountain campground which becomes Dover then Dover Hill road. Grimes Hill is a little warm up for the real climbing on Dover Hill. It’s about three miles at between 9-11% grade. Good stuff! There is very little traffic on the whole section and most of the pavement is good. Unfortunately upon reaching the top, I hit construction there too! The sign said “scarified pavement” which then turned into gravel. So part of my descent was wrecked but the second half was paved and lots of fun.<br />
<br />
I had a mechanical incident shortly after the descent. There’s a brief incline that I thought I’d take in my middle ring (I was using my Specialized with its triple). I was in the largest cog in back and had to trim the front derailleur slightly so it wouldn’t rub. This movement towards the small ring became a problem because I was really hammering while standing on the pedals. The force caused the chain to not go to the small ring or fall off but rather get jammed between the small and middle rings. This has never happened to me before. It was stuck in three places. I was able to pull two of them free but the third one wouldn’t budge despite all my strength pulling on the chain. Finally after about 20 minutes, by moving the pedals back and forth, I got it to release somehow. I then proceeded on with my ride joining route 100 only to face the scenario I described above after reaching the apex after Mt. Snow. Ah well, it was certainly a memorable ride.<br />
<br />
Final stats:<br />
47.03 miles<br />
2:44:20<br />
17.17 average<br />
45.0 max speed<br />
3601 feet elevation gain<br />
<br />
<br />
7/20/2014<br />
I decided to take route 30 to route 35 for an out and back route from the Bald Mountain campground. There is some significant climbing a few miles in on route 35. Due to not knowing the road, rear wheel issue and slightly damp pavement, I took it relatively slow on the descent on the way back topping out at 41.0. Unexpectedly, route 35 turns to dirt after about 7 miles! It looked decent, not like the gravel described above but I wasn’t in the mood for more dirt so turned around and then went farther up 30 to get my mileage in. Overall, this area of Vermont contains some fantastic riding.<br />
<br />
Final stats:<br />
37.29 miles<br />
2:01:07<br />
18.47 average<br />
41.0 max speed<br />
2432 feet elevation gain<br />
<br />
<br />
8/10/2014<br />
We went up to Bow Lake in NH yesterday. As usual, I brought my bike as it’s a treat to ride in mountainous terrain. I had mapped out a 47 mile ride that took me way off the beaten track. I love the solitude of nature and very few cars while still riding on roads. I’m learning, however, that what appear to be paved roads on ridewithgps.com are not guaranteed to be so in rural areas. I ended up... riding about 8 miles of gravel.<br />
<br />
The highlight was my descent of Parker Mountain road with its 11% grade. Last year I hit 50 and I was hoping to beat it. There were a couple of slow cars just behind me before I began the downhill so I pulled over and let them pass. I then ventured out noticing two motorcycles not far behind. I didn’t think they’d be a problem so I cranked hard before getting into a low tuck.<br />
<br />
Time seemed to stop as my world became an immersion of sensations brought on by gravity and wind. The steep part is about a mile long and as it started to ease, the motorcycles passed me. The guy in front gave me a thumbs up and then he gestured with his hand with all five fingers open, flashing it a few times. I waved to him trying to figure out what speed he was indicating I had gone. With great anticipation, I looked at my computer to see that I had maxed out at 51 MPH! What elation! I had an insane adrenaline buzz.<br />
<br />
Risk is relative. My bike was totally steady and I didn’t feel the least bit unsafe. There’s definitely a technique to high speed descending. I kept the mantra in my head “relaxed but hyper alert.” It’s important to not just keep your hands relaxed but also not to overly tense the rest of your body. The kind of cycling I avoid is roads with lots of traffic and particularly ones with small shoulders. I don’t feel safe doing it and it’s too great a risk. A collision with a 3000 pound car will ruin your day.<br />
<br />
Final stats:<br />
47.31 miles<br />
2:45:04<br />
17.20 average<br />
3549 feet elevation gain<br />
51.0 max speed<br />
<br />
<br />
8/19/2014<br />
I got a just about perfect day for my ride. As I got into Crawford Notch it was a little windier than the forecast for Bartlett but that was to be expected as I got higher up. It was only 69 degrees in the higher elevations of the route but in the mid 70s lower down.<br />
<br />
I found a great place to park at the library/elementary school complex in Bartlett as Jay had suggested. From there I started climbing pretty much from the beginning on route 302. It didn’t get steep until the Notch itself so I felt I had a good warm-up. I tried to find a good balance between hitting the climb hard but not burning too many matches as I knew I had a long way to go. The lower parts of 302 have only okay pavement. There are many cracks and there are sections that are apparently covered with chip-seal. There are no cracks there but the surface is unpleasantly rough. The steep part has great pavement.<br />
<br />
After cresting Crawford Notch I continued past route 3 and onto Bethlehem and route 142. That section from route 3 to 142 was very nice as there were fewer cars and continued fantastic views. The store in Bethlehem is just before the turn to 142 and at about 32 miles into the ride, at just the right place. A banana nut muffin and a large Snickers got me through the rest of the ride along with more Coke and water.<br />
<br />
Soon after turning onto route 142, I hit the steepest section of the whole ride at 13% grade. My 39x28 lowest gear worked fairly well though I would have used a lower one had one been available.. I didn’t encounter a single car on my side of the road as I made my way over to route 18. There are two sections of notable descents here. The pavement isn’t great with some heaves but I was able to use the whole lane and didn’t need to brake at all. Top speed here was just over 43MPH.<br />
<br />
I took route 18 over to 141 and hit some more climbing and lousy pavement before coming out on route 3. The pavement on route 3 is mint and I really enjoyed the traverse back to route 302. I enjoyed the views even more on 302 in this direction. I stopped briefly at the Zealand picnic area to eat a gel and then completed the moderate climb back to the top of Crawford Notch. I didn’t stop but immediately embraced the coming descent, taking the whole lane. Wow, that was quite the experience! I topped out at 52.64MPH and enjoyed the fact that there were some gentle turns to it as well. As mentioned, the pavement is fantastic in this section. There is a slightly different type of pavement where people walk across the road about halfway down but I didn’t find it to be a problem. Today was a good day in that there weren’t too many people there. It’s mid-week and before foliage season. I noticed a fair number on my way up but fortunately for the descent, there were just two who were not venturing into the road. Haha, I noticed the man staring at my form whizzing by. I continued using the whole lane until the curves were finished and my speed had dropped to under 40. A car didn’t pass me until some time after that.<br />
<br />
The nice part of starting where I did, is that I knew the last 10+ miles would be almost all downhill so I was able to push on this final section. I got back to my car thoroughly happy with the ride and the roads I was able to cycle for the first time. To summarize, starting in Bartlett: 302/142/18/141/3/302<br />
<br />
Final stats:<br />
72.90 miles<br />
3:50:22<br />
18.99 average MPH<br />
52.64 max speed<br />
4080 feet elevation gain <br />
<br />
<br />
9/10/2014<br />
This was the route:<br />
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/5786072<br />
<br />
I had done this route 11 years ago so it was somewhat familiar to me. It was interesting what I remembered and comparing my impressions of the roads.<br />
<br />
I left from Massachusetts just before 8AM. It was cloudy and even spit rain a bit but as I approached the Waterville Valley exit, the clouds parted and it was almost totally clear with bluebird skies. My first stop was the Subway in Lincoln where I consumed a foot long turkey sub and a cookie. I fuel heavily for long rides as I'd rather over-fuel than risk bonking.<br />
<br />
I then went back to the White Mountain Visitor Center which is a great place to park and prepare for a ride. I rolled out around 10:40. It was in the low 60s with almost no wind - just gorgeous! I knew things were going to get serious quickly as after about a 3 mile warm-up, I turned onto 118 and readied myself to climb. Cyclists refer to this as Gonzo Pass. It's close to 6 miles of tough climbing with a short break mixed in after an initial steep part. It's pretty unrelenting and I quickly felt fully into the ride! There's a great lookout spot near the top where I could see distant mountains clearly.<br />
<br />
The pavement was poor on the ascent where it matters little but unfortunately it was even worse on the descent. I think it has deteriorated in the last 11 years. My log from that ride says I reached 48MPH but today I limited myself to 41. A cyclist acquaintance of mine had told me of a disastrous descent that one of his fellow riders had on this section. He slammed into a guardrail at high speed and needed facial reconstruction. That was certainly in my mind and so though I'm generally loathe to brake on descents, I did quite a bit of it. Even the braking had to be done carefully because it was so bumpy. I look forward to fun descents after hard climbs so this was definitely a letdown especially because I had to semi-stand for most of it to allow my legs to act as shock absorbers. This also prevented me from resting my legs.<br />
<br />
I get to the bottom and the pavement continues to be poor. It was a little better where route 25 joins 118 but then worse on 25A except for a 3 mile section that had been repaved. There was just no relaxing and my body took quite a lot of jarring. 25A has a few ups and downs but nothing like what I had experienced with Gonzo Pass.<br />
<br />
I take the right on route 10 and stop at a store at the 36 mile point of my ride. It was well stocked. I got a Cliff Bar, M & M's, Mountain Dew and more water. I continued on route 10 and was treated to gorgeous scenery, especially as I looked off to my left with farms and pastoral countryside as far as I could see. The pavement wasn't great on 10 either but it was a little better.<br />
<br />
Around the 51 mile point, I took the right onto 116. Soon afterwards I began climbing. Nothing crazy but it was pretty steady. There was a quick and sharp descent that took me to where 112 joins 116. Shortly thereafter I passed the point where 116 juts off to the left and I continued on 112 and finally got decent pavement though it was worn chipseal. At least the bumps and ruts were gone!<br />
<br />
The final mile or so up to the turnoff for the Beaver Brook trail for Mt. Moosilauke is steep but I knew that would be the final climbing for the ride so I hit it quite hard. I was really looking forward to the 12% grade descent on the other side. Unfortunately, I was met with a strong head wind. Despite pedaling into the beginning of the descent, I only reached a top speed of 47.81MPH. I was hoping to come close to the 55MPH top speed I reached on this same descent 11 years ago. The pavement is excellent for this stretch.<br />
<br />
It was almost all downhill right back to the Visitor Center in Lincoln. I finished with:<br />
73.94 miles<br />
4:08:51<br />
17.83 MPH average<br />
47.81 max speed<br />
5378 feet elevation gain<br />
<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-50074627171731811102014-06-21T15:36:00.000-07:002014-06-21T15:36:37.060-07:00Two Month UpdateI've had no trims since my April update but will be having one soon.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gXdhAiWJnwc/U6YI2g6veMI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/La2XrFHXWEw/s1600/062114-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gXdhAiWJnwc/U6YI2g6veMI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/La2XrFHXWEw/s320/062114-3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-icrh7u9spzs/U6YI4a31I0I/AAAAAAAAAhY/uWgmb6L4zWk/s1600/062114-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-icrh7u9spzs/U6YI4a31I0I/AAAAAAAAAhY/uWgmb6L4zWk/s320/062114-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rm_FKZKxfIU/U6YI6bPLx1I/AAAAAAAAAhg/RF95bKmv7Nk/s1600/062114-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rm_FKZKxfIU/U6YI6bPLx1I/AAAAAAAAAhg/RF95bKmv7Nk/s320/062114-1.jpg" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-64322616568433794432014-04-16T17:45:00.000-07:002014-04-16T17:45:59.255-07:00Another TrimI had another trim of about two inches. I seemed to get a lot of growth since the last cut. I plan on continuing with a regular trimming schedule to see what results it brings me.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2IP-8jOZRQ/U08j-B4rHnI/AAAAAAAAAgs/x6gbIezmM50/s1600/04162014-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2IP-8jOZRQ/U08j-B4rHnI/AAAAAAAAAgs/x6gbIezmM50/s320/04162014-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdkWffvN5M0/U08j-FXjlfI/AAAAAAAAAgo/uHbqFzgvvxI/s1600/04162014-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdkWffvN5M0/U08j-FXjlfI/AAAAAAAAAgo/uHbqFzgvvxI/s320/04162014-3.jpg" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-61257716405554185042014-02-16T12:44:00.003-08:002014-02-16T12:44:55.471-08:00 I'm afraid my quest for terminal length has come to an end - at least for now. My active lifestyle just isn't that compatible with pampering my hair, especially with very long ends. I also have limited time in the morning and I'm not able to painstakingly detangle it before braiding it. I would hear snapping almost every time so I know I was inflicting damage.<br />
<br />
I found that I could no longer fully enjoy my long hair because I rarely wore it loose. The last few inches would always tangle and just not look good most of the time.<br />
<br />
The length itself was cool and if I had different genetics (coarse hair), it might be an entirely different story. My hair is super fine and very difficult to keep healthy after a certain point.<br />
<br />
I had my wife cut 4 inches off. It was less than the dramatic 7.5 inch cut from May 2012 but still quite significant. I love how I can now run my hands through the ends and not hear snapping. Who knows, maybe I'll try again for terminal at some point but I'm starting to think I'd do better to maintain with regular trims.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hKpM-Lj-wLw/UwEjOhFWUuI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/7AVgpgyeK_Y/s1600/021614HC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hKpM-Lj-wLw/UwEjOhFWUuI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/7AVgpgyeK_Y/s320/021614HC.jpg" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-82355670396777819812013-12-22T13:01:00.002-08:002013-12-22T13:01:54.541-08:00When Pulled...My waves tend to shorten the perceived length. This is how it is when pulled straight:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qhnpWO56a-o/UrdS2823AmI/AAAAAAAAAgA/Tfzfi5tg-RQ/s1600/122213.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qhnpWO56a-o/UrdS2823AmI/AAAAAAAAAgA/Tfzfi5tg-RQ/s400/122213.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This could possibly be considered waist where my fingers have pulled the hair all the way down.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-37006144867751224562013-11-04T07:02:00.000-08:002013-11-04T07:03:39.936-08:00Cycling Ride ReportsI wanted to collate the three ride reports I made of some of my longer and more epic bike rides from this year.<br />
<br />
<b>July 22, 2013: Kancamagus out and back from Conway side<br />
70.16 miles<br />
3:45:11<br />
18.69 average MPH<br />
46.02 MPH top speed<br />
5125 feet elevation gain<br />
</b><br />
I had cycled the Kancamagus three times but the last time was back in 2005. Since getting back into road cycling in 2011, I've been wanting to do this route again and I finally got the chance today. It can be tough to get an available day when the weather is cooperative too. <br />
<br />
Today was forecasted two days ago as being partly sunny and dry. I awoke today to seeing the radar showing some rain and the potential for more. It looked though that the rain was just south of the Kancamagus. Sure enough, I drove through some rain but then it was dry for my start. There were even a few peeks of sun but it was cloudy for most of it with a great temperature of 68 degrees. I felt a couple of drops during the last 10 miles but nothing to wet the road. But just as I was pulling out of the parking lot to leave, the rain started! Good timing! This is an intense ride. As the elevation profile shows, you basically climb to a peak and then descend, reach your destination and repeat the process.<br />
<br />
I started on the Conway side, went to Lincoln and came back. I was hoping to set a new personal record. Back in 2005, I did the out and back in 4:02:12 but today I managed to do it in 3:45:11. Being 8 years older was secondary to my having done far more training and weighing considerably less. Especially with climbing, that's a huge factor. It's a very beautiful route. You follow a river for a long way and then as you climb the peak and go over it, there are many panoramic lookout points showing many of the surrounding mountains. You can see all the way to Mt. Washington. It just so happened that I came upon an organized ride that came in from Bear Notch Road. There were dozens of riders in it. I have a competitive streak and I really think that helped me with the climb on the way out to have riders in front to chase down! The descents, of course, were lots of fun. I especially enjoyed rounding the hairpin turned, which, thanks to the road being nicely banked, didn't require any braking. After the long descent to Lincoln, I stopped and refueled with an energy gel, Powerade, Snickers bar and water. I took extra precautions to make sure I was fully fueled for the ride. Bonking is no fun particularly with 9% grades to climb. I carbo loaded the last two days and then drank regularly while on the bike. My mixture that I find most effective is 40% Coke, 40% Gatorade and 20% water. Good stuff!<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>September 9, 2013: Hurricane/Evans/16 from Storyland<br />
71.93 miles<br />
4:08:13<br />
17.39 average MPH<br />
44.0 MPH top speed<br />
5614 feet elevation gain<br />
</b><br />
This ride was significantly harder than the Kancamagus ride I did in July. The main reason for that is Hurricane Mountain Road. This is a brutal climb. I had only ridden around 5 miles from my start at Storyland when I hit it ...so I wasn't fully warmed up and it didn't help that both my water bottles were mostly full. Every ounce matters on a climb like this. It is absolutely unrelenting. I'd look up and gasp as it strongly resembled a wall. I didn't walk any of it but was disappointed that I had to stop twice. I made it up 3/4 of it including parts of the 17% grade where on the switchbacks it was closer to 20% without stopping but then stopped twice briefly. My heart has never beaten like this - ever! It felt like it was going to come out of my chest. <br />
<br />
The descent was no reward as it was unpleasant due to very sharp turns and very bumpy pavement. The descent was also posted at 17% and I could feel my bike wanting to get air on parts of it. I had to do lots of hard braking. Fortunately there were a few straight parts where I could let the bike go and let the rims cool off. I could smell rubber at the bottom and it's potentially damaging to the wheels themselves.<br />
<br />
I emerged on a road with more lousy pavement but with just mild rolling hills. My body was shell-shocked at this point and I wasn't in a normal riding rhythm. I had gone way beyond my anaerobic threshold and extended efforts at that pace usually take a toll later in the ride.<br />
<br />
After some miles of this, I emerged on route 113 where the pavement started to get better. What was amazing about this road was just how desolate the area was. At one point I went about 10 miles without seeing a single car. There were more rolling hills and I could feel myself recovering some which was good because Evans Notch was approaching. The road had recently been repaved heading up the steep part of this which was definitely welcome. The Evans climb was the second hardest of the three. It too was quite unrelenting for several miles but the grades were about half of that of Hurricane Mountain Road. I had the whole road to myself as I got into a good climbing rhythm. <br />
<br />
I stopped at the highest point where it's marked by a sign showing the elevation of Evans Notch. It was beautiful there and one of my favorite moments of the ride. Again, desolate and perfectly quiet, I enjoyed looking off into the valley. After about 5 minutes, I began the descent. The first part was also repaved and unlike Hurricane, this was a fun ride down. It didn't stay steep for long but then there was an extended amount of miles with a downward gradient allowing for easier pedaling and recovery.<br />
<br />
At the suggestion of a cycling acquaintance, I didn't take route 2 at the bottom but rather crossed over it and took North road. In his report, he mentioned how quiet this road was except for seeing a mother bear and two cubs cross it! I also found it almost carless. I only encountered one car in the roughly 8 miles before it rejoined route 2. I didn't see any bears though I heard rustling to my right and saw a deer who for some reason didn't immediately go into the woods but ran alongside me for a bit. I'm glad it finally took a right rather than crossing in front of me.<br />
<br />
After about 4 miles on route 2, I arrived in Gorham and refueled at a Cumberland Farms conveniently located next to the turn for route 16. This was 49.7 miles into the ride but I was fueled sufficiently up to this point. It helped that the temperature was coolish. <br />
<br />
I then got on route 16 heading towards Mount Washington. It's steady uphill but except for a brief bit near Wildcat, I found it comparatively easy. It was without question the easiest of the three major climbs. It was an all-out descent down the 9% grade on the other side heading back but the wind was against me so I only topped out at 44MPH. The rest of the trip back to Storyland was almost all downhill and a nice way to finish the ride.<br />
<br />
I had never been on route 113 and through Evans Notch on a car or a bike so I really enjoyed that part. I was able to capture a feeling of being alone in the wilderness which doesn't happen that often on a road bike. I'd recommend this ride. Loops are always nice. The only part that was questionable was Hurricane Mountain Road. If you're feeling particularly masochistic, this is the road for you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>September 29, 2013: Charlton: 31 to Wachusett & back<br />
68.40 miles<br />
3:51:43<br />
17.71 average MPH<br />
49.0 MPH top speed<br />
5976 feet elevation gain<br />
</b><br />
My in-laws live in Charlton and I had done three previous rides heading north on... route 31 from their house. Today I was able to complete the full ride to the summit of Wachusett and back.<br />
<br />
I hit the road at 8:20 with it only being 51 degrees out. I was in shorts and short sleeves but didn't want to have the hassle of bringing an extra layer. It wasn't long before I felt warm enough. The day turned out to be perfect weatherwise as there was little wind and it was about 65 degrees when I completed it.<br />
<br />
Route 31 is just okay to ride. Many parts don't have that great of a shoulder but I never felt that uncomfortable. I arrived at the intersection of 31 and Mountain Road feeling pretty excited as I was finally going to enter new territory. There's a good hill right off the bat. About three miles later I saw the entrance to the Wachusett reservation.<br />
<br />
As I turned in, I saw a worker there who clearly wanted to talk to me before I went any further. He told me it was okay to proceed but said to limit my speed on the descent to 20 MPH. He said cyclists have been routinely doing 50 there and yesterday a group was pulled over and each given $200 speeding tickets! This was a bit of a bummer as I was looking forward to a spirited descent though I didn't plan on going 50 with all the hikers. Of course, I was glad to have been warned rather than be one of those who ended up with a ticket.<br />
<br />
The ascent went smoothly on the perfect pavement. Compared to my Hurricane Mountain Road adventure of three weeks ago, it was only minimally challenging. I cycled up the smaller paved path that goes right to the summit and spent about 5 minutes there enjoying the tremendous view that was in every direction. The foliage around there is already starting to look nice.<br />
<br />
It turned out that as I began my descent a car was right in front of me. I decided to just pace myself with the car which ended up going between 30-35 for most of it. Certainly better than going the posted speed limit of 20 but not that exciting either. I knew the real excitement was to come as there are no limits on Mountain Road!<br />
<br />
I take the left and after a bit of peddling, I got into a tuck. I didn't sprint into it as this was my first time doing it. I had watched a youtube video of the descent on this stretch several times so I wasn't totally in the dark about it. My bike held well and the pavement was good. There are a couple of slight turns that add to it. I topped out at 49 MPH.<br />
<br />
I then came to 140 and the most unpleasant two miles of the ride. There is no shoulder on that section and I was relieved to turn onto Osgood and then Mirick roads which were very quiet. I came out onto route 62 and after another steep but short ascent was back at the route 31/Mountain Road intersection. I would retrace route 31 back the rest of the way.<br />
<br />
I stopped at 47 miles to refuel. Given the coolness of the day, I went through less liquid and was okay with two water bottles up to that point. I got a cookie, double Snickers, Powerade and water. The total came to $6.37 and I only noticed at the counter that there is a $10 minimum for credit card purchases. I only had $6 cash with me and asked if an exception could be made. I was hoping that she'd just let me use the credit card but instead she took the difference out of the tip jar which was a nice and unexpected gesture.<br />
<br />
I ate and drank as quickly as I could sitting at one of the outside tables. I didn't want to risk cramping. My legs were a little stiff at first but soon loosened up and I could feel the fuel starting to power me. The hill after passing over the Kendall reservoir is the toughest on the return section. I think I actually finished the ride feeling stronger than some of my previous shorter rides on this route.<br />
<br />
<br />
Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-47911418765947375812013-10-21T16:18:00.001-07:002013-10-21T16:18:46.576-07:00At the Cusp of a New Length RecordI'm about to enter new territory...
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwyIHc4259U/UmW2PBLdR1I/AAAAAAAAAfo/UEJLE9i7jJE/s1600/101613-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gwyIHc4259U/UmW2PBLdR1I/AAAAAAAAAfo/UEJLE9i7jJE/s400/101613-2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pl9Tu7BhaGo/UmW2R2hrd1I/AAAAAAAAAfw/Sxf8dbvU284/s1600/101613-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Pl9Tu7BhaGo/UmW2R2hrd1I/AAAAAAAAAfw/Sxf8dbvU284/s400/101613-1.jpg" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-34959163381505387892013-10-09T16:38:00.000-07:002013-10-09T16:38:32.678-07:00Random Hair ShotsI was sick when these were taken so don't mind the exhausted look I'm sporting.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1YEccUK6Tg/UlXnZj1WRnI/AAAAAAAAAeA/8JVvuJ822f0/s1600/100913-+017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U1YEccUK6Tg/UlXnZj1WRnI/AAAAAAAAAeA/8JVvuJ822f0/s320/100913-+017.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ76zA68ZaM/UlXoqOBTK7I/AAAAAAAAAeU/qwZp29ipCCw/s1600/100913-+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ76zA68ZaM/UlXoqOBTK7I/AAAAAAAAAeU/qwZp29ipCCw/s320/100913-+021.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZV9n18GTPo/UlXopbu3mqI/AAAAAAAAAeM/gCtq6iMsydo/s1600/100913-+048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WZV9n18GTPo/UlXopbu3mqI/AAAAAAAAAeM/gCtq6iMsydo/s320/100913-+048.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6fH5itlh6iw/UlXoojMspII/AAAAAAAAAeI/RNNilQvSTHk/s1600/10092013+009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6fH5itlh6iw/UlXoojMspII/AAAAAAAAAeI/RNNilQvSTHk/s320/10092013+009.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X8fcc4685jc/UlXoqiokUxI/AAAAAAAAAec/OMXzkTIz85I/s1600/10092013+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-X8fcc4685jc/UlXoqiokUxI/AAAAAAAAAec/OMXzkTIz85I/s320/10092013+012.JPG" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-37858597665744558322013-10-08T16:19:00.001-07:002013-10-08T16:19:49.521-07:00Oiling With Coconut and OjonI did a very thorough coconut oiling and then two days later added an Ojon oiling. This was the photo from last month:
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9hNjKUa-U0/UlSS0cgRa_I/AAAAAAAAAdw/myF-KO3omQg/s1600/oiled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g9hNjKUa-U0/UlSS0cgRa_I/AAAAAAAAAdw/myF-KO3omQg/s400/oiled.jpg" /></a></div>
I should be doing these oilings more frequently if I want to break into new length territory successfully. I may post more updates of how they're working.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-48487423974466249012013-08-27T07:59:00.000-07:002013-08-27T07:59:20.438-07:00Body Sculpting UpdateIt's been over 7 months since I've updated my body sculpting progress. I think I'm basically just maintaining. I'm okay with this except for my stomach which needs to be more defined. This means losing at least 8 more pounds.
I have no desire to get bulky so I'm happy with the rest just staying toned. Cycling comes first and extra weight on the upper body impedes riding, particularly climbing. Having decent upper body strength though is a benefit I've found as I don't tire as easily on long rides and have more general power. Core strength is critical too.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v7evoNO9dHU/Uhy-XEK5o-I/AAAAAAAAAbU/FJ-dQU6bCXQ/s1600/082713-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v7evoNO9dHU/Uhy-XEK5o-I/AAAAAAAAAbU/FJ-dQU6bCXQ/s400/082713-1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lfynlUhJii4/Uhy-XGmarqI/AAAAAAAAAbY/U6a0NQpTnU0/s1600/082713-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lfynlUhJii4/Uhy-XGmarqI/AAAAAAAAAbY/U6a0NQpTnU0/s400/082713-2.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tAYk4VrNRd8/Uhy-jZasLAI/AAAAAAAAAbo/dR9stobn1iA/s1600/082713-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tAYk4VrNRd8/Uhy-jZasLAI/AAAAAAAAAbo/dR9stobn1iA/s400/082713-3.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_-T_369JdUI/Uhy-jd2JWlI/AAAAAAAAAbw/92xbM2Vyg-0/s1600/082713-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_-T_369JdUI/Uhy-jd2JWlI/AAAAAAAAAbw/92xbM2Vyg-0/s400/082713-4.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W3cBCVXQsQU/Uhy-jVQxuWI/AAAAAAAAAbk/9lW7npKrjvw/s1600/082713-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W3cBCVXQsQU/Uhy-jVQxuWI/AAAAAAAAAbk/9lW7npKrjvw/s400/082713-5.jpg" /></a></div>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-1902429984703346592013-08-16T07:29:00.002-07:002013-08-16T07:31:22.696-07:00Three Months Later<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WXZqS6RAMGg/Ug43QDyNUeI/AAAAAAAAAbE/AHI0tV63Nps/s1600/081513.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" ksa="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WXZqS6RAMGg/Ug43QDyNUeI/AAAAAAAAAbE/AHI0tV63Nps/s320/081513.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
My hair has not been trimmed since the last update. These three months have featured lots of strong summer sunlight and some salt water too. The ends are only so-so but I plan on leaving them alone for the time being. The quest for terminal continues… Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3279665292543414042.post-44868499998570098852013-05-22T17:32:00.000-07:002013-05-22T17:32:07.175-07:00After a Heavy Coconut OilingI did a thorough coconut oiling last night and kept it in for about 20 hours before shampooing and conditioning this afternoon. This is after it had dried:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pKRcwjbRPgg/UZ1jGIHjRrI/AAAAAAAAAas/zuqOVklWDWU/s1600/05222013-+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pKRcwjbRPgg/UZ1jGIHjRrI/AAAAAAAAAas/zuqOVklWDWU/s400/05222013-+032.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Despite the oiling, it's looks on the frizzy side. There is little that can be done to avoid that with shampooing and conditioning hair that day. It will probably look more sleek tomorrow.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05814447937394114176noreply@blogger.com0