Final panic - I mean prep. - Six Countries For Sixty Years

Final panic - I mean prep.

The living room has become a staging area.

Jacinto weighed his clothes pannier. 11 pounds! I think he was having second thoughts about the offer to carry some of my gear.

My last ride at home was one of my favorite routes, up Rifle Gap.

Sheila and I went to a food truck down by the river. I was skeptical about the dirt road.

Once we arrived, it was like finding a little oasis. This was my last hurrah the day before leaving. Sheila is giving us a ride to the airport in the morning.

I did a very good job of denial on the climbing needed for this trip. I'm strong on the local 5-6-7% climbs. You know what I practiced? The past two riding days, I've practiced walking up a 15% grade, pushing my bike. I'm not even going to pretend I can ride up anything that steep. For short pitches, yes. Extended climbing? Not a chance.

Spring sports are busy for Jacinto. His bicycling opportunities were few. He has the legs, no worries there. I did point out several times that I am much slower. He ended up offering to take some of my gear. Perhaps that would slow him down, and speed me up?

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Rachael AndersonYou sure have some challenging rides. I hope it goes well!
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1 month ago