Week One Summary Post: Sunday 11/23 - Saturday 11/29
Note, I lumped my initial Saturday warm-up ride of 20 miles from the beach to Santee into my Sunday statistics. In other words - I am cheating already!
Area covered: San Diego CA to Apache Junction AZ - just East of Phoenix
Total miles ridden: 516
Average miles per day: 74
Ahead/Behind schedule: 42 miles BEHIND schedule - I am not concerned yet as I am still sitting on 2 spare days and there are several short cuts in the route if I choose to cut some corners based on weather or schedule.
Best ride section: Coming off the San Diego mountains through the Chocolate mountains and dropping into the desert. As a special bonus this was a 7 mile section at a 6 % downhill grade.
Worst ride section: "Flat Country" between Salome AZ and Aguila where the Goat Heads had their way with me for 7 flats within a 5 mile section.
Best restaurant: Chalos Casa De Reynoso in Globe AZ - the best bean and steak burrito I have ever had. The whole meal with a draft only cost $6 (not pesos).
Best hotel: Holiday Inn Express in Surprise AZ - brand new. I may have gotten chain grease on the fine linens - please don't tell.
Worst hotel: Shefflers in Salome - this place was a dump and I had to ride my bike through 6 inches of water to get to the front door of my room. Then was warned of homeless people who might take my wet gear that was airing out on the front porch.
New career options considered: #1 - Going out of business sign holder as I have seen tons along the way #2 - Tie Down sales - you know, those rubber or bungy cord straps that hold things on trucks and trailers. I"ll bet I have seen more than 100 of various sizes and colors. You could make a living by picking these up and opening up a retail store to sell them. #3 - Weigh loss clinic - I have discovered a new way to lose weight that just might put Curves out of business. Simply ride a bike 74 miles per day and you can eat all you want while still losing weight. This might be the most promising opportunity yet!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Day 9 - Sunday, November 30
Description: Finished in Safford AZ just before 1:00.
Outstanding day with awesome weather, beautiful mountains, and favorable winds. Woke up at 6 AM to pack up the Mean Green Machine and Wilson. Enjoyed a big breakfast of waffles, hard boiled eggs, cereal, OJ, and coffee. Loaded up with bottled water at the gas station next door and began riding just after 7:15. Globe punished me with a nice hill to get beyond the city limits and then I was treated to a roller coaster ride of steep downhills with matching climbs. Then the ride flattened out and turned into a steady 1 % or less grade for the next 50 miles all the way up to Safford. Nothing too exciting to report today other than not a cloud in the sky, beautiful mountains (some snow capped) all around me, and Apache Indian territory complete with their own casino "Apache Gold". I picked up a big tailwind after the roller coaster and rode the big chain at a fast pace through the Apache towns of Peridot, Bylas, Geronimo (Sporadic Stephen said I should have yelled "Geronimo" when I rode through - this would have done no good as even the dogs were on Siesta), Fort Thomas, Pima, and Thatcher before ending at 75 miles in Safford. I could have ridden another 75 miles but there were no hotels for another 118 miles. There was some big cotton farms around Pima but other than that - nothing. Thatcher hosts Southern Arizona University (looked smaller than a JR High School) which is the home of "The Fighting Gila Monsters" - scary ehh? The Gila river flows through this area. I only stopped in Bylas at a small Apache owned gas station for 2 Nutri-Grain bars and a quick break. They were nice but gave me change with wooden nickels:-). There were no Quiznos or Starbucks on this Indian reservation! With the wind at my back, I did not want to stop for fear it would change. I did gulp down a Cliff bar for the extra surge needed to finish. Once checked into Super-8 hotel in Safford, I crossed the street and plowed into the Golden Corral mega bar to stockpile calories for the climbs tomorrow. I ate until the manager threw me out:-). Then I hit the Safeway and stocked up with required supplies for the next few days including Luna and Power Bars, Power-Aid, Starbucks Double-Shots, and Arrogant Bastard Ale (my favorite from San Diego - Wow what a find).
Tomorrow is a difficult 60 mile ride with 2 major climbs topping out at a trip to date high of 6,300 ft. I will also be camping at high elevation (brrrrrrr) as there are no motels for the next 118 miles.
NOTE: I doubt there will be cell coverage so do not be alarmed if you do not get a trip report tomorrow night. You will get my Spot "I am OK" message posted to my blog at the end of my ride as Spot does not use cell technology.
Gonna go grab some dinner soon and relaxl....
Good night!
Weather: Awesome day with not a cloud in the sky. Needed a jacket for the first half hour and then perfect after that for biking. I kept my leg warmers on all day just to ensure the pistons keep nice and toasty.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 75 Trip: 591
Total travel time: 5:30 Trip: 60:35
Bike Riding time: 5:02 Trip: 47:00
Avg speed: 15.00 Trip: 12.85
Max speed: 34.24 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,170 Trip: 15,568
Avg pedal RPMs: 89 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 113 Trip: 118
Max heart rate: 134 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 4,343 Trip: 35,233
Weather Statistics:
High temp 69 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: Big Help Today!
Total good wind days: 3
Total bad wind days: 6
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: Super-8 hotel
Total hotel nights: 9
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 27
Pints: 2 Trip: 16 - Arrogant Bastard Ale today - my favorite from San Diego
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - but anxious for the next 2 days of big climbs to the Continental Divide.
Outstanding day with awesome weather, beautiful mountains, and favorable winds. Woke up at 6 AM to pack up the Mean Green Machine and Wilson. Enjoyed a big breakfast of waffles, hard boiled eggs, cereal, OJ, and coffee. Loaded up with bottled water at the gas station next door and began riding just after 7:15. Globe punished me with a nice hill to get beyond the city limits and then I was treated to a roller coaster ride of steep downhills with matching climbs. Then the ride flattened out and turned into a steady 1 % or less grade for the next 50 miles all the way up to Safford. Nothing too exciting to report today other than not a cloud in the sky, beautiful mountains (some snow capped) all around me, and Apache Indian territory complete with their own casino "Apache Gold". I picked up a big tailwind after the roller coaster and rode the big chain at a fast pace through the Apache towns of Peridot, Bylas, Geronimo (Sporadic Stephen said I should have yelled "Geronimo" when I rode through - this would have done no good as even the dogs were on Siesta), Fort Thomas, Pima, and Thatcher before ending at 75 miles in Safford. I could have ridden another 75 miles but there were no hotels for another 118 miles. There was some big cotton farms around Pima but other than that - nothing. Thatcher hosts Southern Arizona University (looked smaller than a JR High School) which is the home of "The Fighting Gila Monsters" - scary ehh? The Gila river flows through this area. I only stopped in Bylas at a small Apache owned gas station for 2 Nutri-Grain bars and a quick break. They were nice but gave me change with wooden nickels:-). There were no Quiznos or Starbucks on this Indian reservation! With the wind at my back, I did not want to stop for fear it would change. I did gulp down a Cliff bar for the extra surge needed to finish. Once checked into Super-8 hotel in Safford, I crossed the street and plowed into the Golden Corral mega bar to stockpile calories for the climbs tomorrow. I ate until the manager threw me out:-). Then I hit the Safeway and stocked up with required supplies for the next few days including Luna and Power Bars, Power-Aid, Starbucks Double-Shots, and Arrogant Bastard Ale (my favorite from San Diego - Wow what a find).
Tomorrow is a difficult 60 mile ride with 2 major climbs topping out at a trip to date high of 6,300 ft. I will also be camping at high elevation (brrrrrrr) as there are no motels for the next 118 miles.
NOTE: I doubt there will be cell coverage so do not be alarmed if you do not get a trip report tomorrow night. You will get my Spot "I am OK" message posted to my blog at the end of my ride as Spot does not use cell technology.
Gonna go grab some dinner soon and relaxl....
Good night!
Weather: Awesome day with not a cloud in the sky. Needed a jacket for the first half hour and then perfect after that for biking. I kept my leg warmers on all day just to ensure the pistons keep nice and toasty.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 75 Trip: 591
Total travel time: 5:30 Trip: 60:35
Bike Riding time: 5:02 Trip: 47:00
Avg speed: 15.00 Trip: 12.85
Max speed: 34.24 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,170 Trip: 15,568
Avg pedal RPMs: 89 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 113 Trip: 118
Max heart rate: 134 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 4,343 Trip: 35,233
Weather Statistics:
High temp 69 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: Big Help Today!
Total good wind days: 3
Total bad wind days: 6
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: Super-8 hotel
Total hotel nights: 9
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 27
Pints: 2 Trip: 16 - Arrogant Bastard Ale today - my favorite from San Diego
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - but anxious for the next 2 days of big climbs to the Continental Divide.
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.8352
Longitude:-109.7273
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/30/2008 11:49:22 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.8352,-109.7273&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.8352
Longitude:-109.7273
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/30/2008 11:49:22 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.8352,-109.7273&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Day 8 - Saturday, November 29
Description: Finished in Globe AZ. Another awesome day although not a lot of miles. Had to stop at 56 miles because the next stop would be another 80 miles away.
I was up early today at 5:45 and hit the buffet breakfast at 6:15. Several plates of pancakes, cereal, OJ, and some coffee filled the tank. I packed my bike up, stopped for some water at the corner gas station, and then started rolling around 7:30 or so. From the beginning, it was a steady 1 to 2 % grade all the way to the base of the first mountain climb. I ripped up Gonzales Pass (only 2,700 ft) without having to punch into the small chain ring (granny gear). From there, a steep downhill into the small town of Superior which did not even look average to me. A quick stop at a gas station for some coffee and some Little Debbie Peanut Butter Sticks recharged the batteries. I looked up the road from the gas station and all I could see was a huge mountain and the smell of burning breaks from everyone coming down in their vehicles. This was not a good sign but Wilson said to not worry about it!. At that point, I took a deep breath and pressed up the mountain which was 6-7% grade for 15+ miles. Not much like this around Raleigh! Half way up, I went through a very narrow tunnel with no shoulder room on the sides. It was tight and I was uncomfortable with my wide load bike as the cars and trucks passed close bye me. Wilson talked me through it. At the summit (4,600 ft) there was a small town called appropriately "Top Of The World". As I started flying down the mountain, I passed 2 other cross country bikers who were climbing up from the other direction. There was a lot of traffic and no shoulders so we only waved hello and kept on moving. I would have liked to talk to the guy as he looked like the lead singer from ZZ Top with a white beard that almost touched his bike top tube! Down I went at a high speed through Miami (not Florida) which is a huge copper and gold mining community. From there it was a 5 mile climb to my stopping point in Globe at a Days Inn. I finished early today just after 2:30. A quick shower and then a big bean and steak burrito (eat your heart out Dayn) meal at the local Mexican joint. The place was recommended by the hotel and it was the best meal all trip from a restaurant. Hard to beat the first 2 dinners I had with the Hashers in San Diego! I am now relaxing in my room planning out the next 4-5 days. Tomorrow will be a long ride with 3 minor climbs. Major climbs across the Continental Divide are just over the horizon with one at over 8,200 ft. Will have to camp at over 5,000 ft on Monday night as there are no hotels on the route.
The bike rode very well with the new bullet proof 100 PSI tires.
Sadly, my MP3 player locked up early today and I had to rely totally on Wilson for entertainment. At the hotel this evening, I jumped onto the Internet and figured out how to fix the player. Rock on!
Good night!
Weather: Another perfect day. Started a little cool and only warmed up to near 60 in the mountain passes. I almost broke a sweat with the climbing for the first time all trip!
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 56 Trip: 516
Total travel time: 7:00 Trip: 55:05
Bike Riding time: 5:19 Trip: 41:58
Avg speed: 10.57 Trip: 12.59
Max speed: 32.36 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 3,513 Trip: 14,398
Avg pedal RPMs: 86 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 112 Trip: 119
Max heart rate: 155 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 3,968 Trip: 30,890
Weather Statistics:
High temp 60 Trip: 75
Low temp: 57 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: against - slight breeze with some gusts on the big pass
Total good wind days: 2
Total bad wind days: 6
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 8
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 24
Pints: 2 Trip: 14 - Tim F. Told me 2 pints a day is good for you - said he read it on the Internet:-)
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - I just rolled over the Top Of The World which would put anyone in a great mood.
I was up early today at 5:45 and hit the buffet breakfast at 6:15. Several plates of pancakes, cereal, OJ, and some coffee filled the tank. I packed my bike up, stopped for some water at the corner gas station, and then started rolling around 7:30 or so. From the beginning, it was a steady 1 to 2 % grade all the way to the base of the first mountain climb. I ripped up Gonzales Pass (only 2,700 ft) without having to punch into the small chain ring (granny gear). From there, a steep downhill into the small town of Superior which did not even look average to me. A quick stop at a gas station for some coffee and some Little Debbie Peanut Butter Sticks recharged the batteries. I looked up the road from the gas station and all I could see was a huge mountain and the smell of burning breaks from everyone coming down in their vehicles. This was not a good sign but Wilson said to not worry about it!. At that point, I took a deep breath and pressed up the mountain which was 6-7% grade for 15+ miles. Not much like this around Raleigh! Half way up, I went through a very narrow tunnel with no shoulder room on the sides. It was tight and I was uncomfortable with my wide load bike as the cars and trucks passed close bye me. Wilson talked me through it. At the summit (4,600 ft) there was a small town called appropriately "Top Of The World". As I started flying down the mountain, I passed 2 other cross country bikers who were climbing up from the other direction. There was a lot of traffic and no shoulders so we only waved hello and kept on moving. I would have liked to talk to the guy as he looked like the lead singer from ZZ Top with a white beard that almost touched his bike top tube! Down I went at a high speed through Miami (not Florida) which is a huge copper and gold mining community. From there it was a 5 mile climb to my stopping point in Globe at a Days Inn. I finished early today just after 2:30. A quick shower and then a big bean and steak burrito (eat your heart out Dayn) meal at the local Mexican joint. The place was recommended by the hotel and it was the best meal all trip from a restaurant. Hard to beat the first 2 dinners I had with the Hashers in San Diego! I am now relaxing in my room planning out the next 4-5 days. Tomorrow will be a long ride with 3 minor climbs. Major climbs across the Continental Divide are just over the horizon with one at over 8,200 ft. Will have to camp at over 5,000 ft on Monday night as there are no hotels on the route.
The bike rode very well with the new bullet proof 100 PSI tires.
Sadly, my MP3 player locked up early today and I had to rely totally on Wilson for entertainment. At the hotel this evening, I jumped onto the Internet and figured out how to fix the player. Rock on!
Good night!
Weather: Another perfect day. Started a little cool and only warmed up to near 60 in the mountain passes. I almost broke a sweat with the climbing for the first time all trip!
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 56 Trip: 516
Total travel time: 7:00 Trip: 55:05
Bike Riding time: 5:19 Trip: 41:58
Avg speed: 10.57 Trip: 12.59
Max speed: 32.36 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 3,513 Trip: 14,398
Avg pedal RPMs: 86 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 112 Trip: 119
Max heart rate: 155 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 3,968 Trip: 30,890
Weather Statistics:
High temp 60 Trip: 75
Low temp: 57 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: against - slight breeze with some gusts on the big pass
Total good wind days: 2
Total bad wind days: 6
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 8
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 24
Pints: 2 Trip: 14 - Tim F. Told me 2 pints a day is good for you - said he read it on the Internet:-)
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - I just rolled over the Top Of The World which would put anyone in a great mood.
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.3937
Longitude:-110.7687
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/29/2008 12:38:40 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.3937,-110.7687&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.3937
Longitude:-110.7687
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/29/2008 12:38:40 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.3937,-110.7687&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Friday, November 28, 2008
Day 7 - Friday, November 28
Description: Finished in Apache Junction AZ. Very good day today! Felt like a rest day even though I rode 74 miles.
I slept in this morning to give time for the bike shops to open as I needed tires. I crammed down a big plate of eggs, sausage, toast, yogurt, OJ, milk, and coffee to fuel the furnace. Then I packed up my bike and headed out at 8:10 to find the local bike shop. To my surprise, the "Surprise Bike Shop" was open at 8:30 for Black Friday shoppers. They did not have my tire size in stock but they did sell me tire liners and some extra tubes. From there, I fought the local holiday shopping traffic and headed for Phoenix. I found another bike shop but they were closed so I rolled on. At around noon, I found a Bike Barn and again, no tires in stock (26 inch wheels are not looking like a wise decision). I did buy some chain lube (used all mine to get the sand and dirt out from the desert and rain storm) and some more patches. Out on the rode again wondering when I would go flat. I rolled onto the Arizona Canal Bike Path and rode it for over 15 miles. It was really cool. Man, do they treasure their water around here. After the bike path ended, I rode past the Phoenix airport and then into Tempe. After seeing several Quizno's Prime Rib sandwich billboards, I could not take it anymore and stopped at the next one I saw. Gulped down one of those big bad boys (Um Um Good) plus some chips and a Dr Pepper for added sugar and caffeine. A mile later, Wilson instructed my bike to pull into a Starbuck's for a double espresso and to asks for a local bike shop. There was a shop just down the street - wow is Wilson good. Guess what, the shop did not have any high quality tires in my size. Off I rolled again assuming I was stuck with my old dogs. Then a miracle happened - the wind picked up and it was at my back. It blew me through Tempe, Mesa, and into Apache Junction. I was going so fast that I missed a turn and rode the wrong way. While trying to get back, I found another bike shop! Their big sign out front advertised "Let us flat proof your bike". This looked perfect. They had my tires in stock and installed them quickly along with the tire liners and heavy duty tubes. I took on some more weight but the new tires are 20 PSI higher (100) and should stand up to the Goat Head thorns much better. After saying thanks and goodbye, I rolled out to a storm approaching in the distance. I quickly found a Super-8 hotel and called it a day. After a hot shower, I wolfed down a foot long Blimpy sub, chips, and cookie washed down by a Becks.
Tomorrow is when the real hill climbing starts as I will go up to 4,500 feet on my way up to 8,300 feet in the next few days.
BTW, thanks Mom for the tip on Wilson. He has to ride on the back rack when my rain covers are on but I forgot to move him up front where he can see the road better. He should be fine tomorrow and this will surly bring good luck with the rain and wind.
Good night!
Weather: Perfect! Cool in the morning, a little warm around noon, and cool again in the afternoon. No wind in the morning and then at my back in the afternoon.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 74 Trip: 459
Total travel time: 8:30 Trip: 48:05
Bike Riding time: 5:32 Trip: 36:39
Avg speed: 13.34 Trip: 12.88
Max speed: 25.31 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 450 Trip: 10,885
Avg pedal RPMs: 90 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 97 Trip: 120
Max heart rate: 144 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 4,541 Trip: 26,922
Weather Statistics:
High temp 70 Trip: 75
Low temp: 60 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: favorable - hopefully the start of a new trend
Total good wind days: 2
Total bad wind days: 5
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 7
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 2 Trip: 21
Pints: 1 Trip: 12
Mood rating (1-10): 9.5 feel much better with the new tires and the forecast looks great.
I slept in this morning to give time for the bike shops to open as I needed tires. I crammed down a big plate of eggs, sausage, toast, yogurt, OJ, milk, and coffee to fuel the furnace. Then I packed up my bike and headed out at 8:10 to find the local bike shop. To my surprise, the "Surprise Bike Shop" was open at 8:30 for Black Friday shoppers. They did not have my tire size in stock but they did sell me tire liners and some extra tubes. From there, I fought the local holiday shopping traffic and headed for Phoenix. I found another bike shop but they were closed so I rolled on. At around noon, I found a Bike Barn and again, no tires in stock (26 inch wheels are not looking like a wise decision). I did buy some chain lube (used all mine to get the sand and dirt out from the desert and rain storm) and some more patches. Out on the rode again wondering when I would go flat. I rolled onto the Arizona Canal Bike Path and rode it for over 15 miles. It was really cool. Man, do they treasure their water around here. After the bike path ended, I rode past the Phoenix airport and then into Tempe. After seeing several Quizno's Prime Rib sandwich billboards, I could not take it anymore and stopped at the next one I saw. Gulped down one of those big bad boys (Um Um Good) plus some chips and a Dr Pepper for added sugar and caffeine. A mile later, Wilson instructed my bike to pull into a Starbuck's for a double espresso and to asks for a local bike shop. There was a shop just down the street - wow is Wilson good. Guess what, the shop did not have any high quality tires in my size. Off I rolled again assuming I was stuck with my old dogs. Then a miracle happened - the wind picked up and it was at my back. It blew me through Tempe, Mesa, and into Apache Junction. I was going so fast that I missed a turn and rode the wrong way. While trying to get back, I found another bike shop! Their big sign out front advertised "Let us flat proof your bike". This looked perfect. They had my tires in stock and installed them quickly along with the tire liners and heavy duty tubes. I took on some more weight but the new tires are 20 PSI higher (100) and should stand up to the Goat Head thorns much better. After saying thanks and goodbye, I rolled out to a storm approaching in the distance. I quickly found a Super-8 hotel and called it a day. After a hot shower, I wolfed down a foot long Blimpy sub, chips, and cookie washed down by a Becks.
Tomorrow is when the real hill climbing starts as I will go up to 4,500 feet on my way up to 8,300 feet in the next few days.
BTW, thanks Mom for the tip on Wilson. He has to ride on the back rack when my rain covers are on but I forgot to move him up front where he can see the road better. He should be fine tomorrow and this will surly bring good luck with the rain and wind.
Good night!
Weather: Perfect! Cool in the morning, a little warm around noon, and cool again in the afternoon. No wind in the morning and then at my back in the afternoon.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 74 Trip: 459
Total travel time: 8:30 Trip: 48:05
Bike Riding time: 5:32 Trip: 36:39
Avg speed: 13.34 Trip: 12.88
Max speed: 25.31 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 450 Trip: 10,885
Avg pedal RPMs: 90 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 97 Trip: 120
Max heart rate: 144 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 4,541 Trip: 26,922
Weather Statistics:
High temp 70 Trip: 75
Low temp: 60 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: favorable - hopefully the start of a new trend
Total good wind days: 2
Total bad wind days: 5
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0 Trip: 8
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 7
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 2 Trip: 21
Pints: 1 Trip: 12
Mood rating (1-10): 9.5 feel much better with the new tires and the forecast looks great.
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.3883
Longitude:-111.5438
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/28/2008 16:10:42 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.3883,-111.5438&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.3883
Longitude:-111.5438
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/28/2008 16:10:42 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.3883,-111.5438&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Day 6 - Thursday, November 27
Description: Finished in Surprise AZ. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
First of all.... Thanks to everyone who has been following my blog and providing feedback. I really do appreciate all of the comments and support. I am not able to reply to everyone's comments but rest assured that I see them all on my Blackberry.
Today, I was hoping to beat the forecast of rain and I did! The weather was great with only light winds and partly sunny skies - no rain! I got up early at 5:30 to pack up and be on the road at first light. I stopped at the only gas station (which was open) in Solome and grabbed a home made biscuit with sausage and egg - very good. I washed it down with a coffee and was ready to roll by 7:15. The rain had just ended and the roads were wet. After 4 or 5 miles, I got another flat on my rear tire. What a pain in the butt. I put a new tube in and rolled on. Less than 1 mile later - bam - another rear flat. I checked out the tire and it looked bad with several deep cuts and lots of wear. I then swapped it out for my spare tire plus a patch on the tube. Back on the road again knowing I need to go close to 90 miles today. Then ssshhhhhssss, another flat but this time on the front. I patched it and checked the tire for thorns. Long sorry short, I had a total of 5 flats on the front over the next 10 miles. Finally, I replaced the front tire with my old back tire that was newer. Both tires got shredded by the rough country roads. Lesson learned here that I need more bullet proof tires! All along, I realized that I was going to run out of daylight due to the flat repairs so I rode like a madman whenever I could to gain some time - my avg mph was very good today. Eventually, things settled down just as I crested the last big climb of the day. From there, I cranked on the big gears for the last 40 miles at around 18-20 mph. I only stopped at Wickenburg at a Micky-D's for a quick double cheeseburger because I had a gift card and could use the fat and calories. All down hill all the way to Surprise Arizona which is just outside of Phoenix. I grabbed a room at a Holiday Inn Express that was brand new. The rate started out at 139 and I got the guy down to 75 when he gave me the key - my history of vendor negotiations at work has paid off today. I think I am the first person to sleep in my bed! After a long hot shower, I enjoyed the hotel happy hour, called my kids back in Raleigh to wish them a happy T-Giving, and then rode my bike to a TGI Fridays for dinner which was the only thing open. I wolfed down a big pasta meal with chicken (I did have a turkey sandwich for lunch) and then dodged some storms to ride back to the hotel. Called my parents to wish them a happy T-Giving as well. They were excited about my trip and have been following me closely. Gonna finish this write-up and crash.
Today really tested my patience but I consulted with Wilson and he said to fix the flat and move on as this is still better than sitting behind a desk. I said good point, changed the album on the boom box, and moved forward.
Tomorrow will be a light day through Phoenix as I look for a bike shop to replace my worn out tires.
Good night everyone!
Weather: Much better than the weather channel predicted! Cloudy early, then sunny around noon, and partly cloudy in the late afternoon. Perfect.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 88 Trip: 386
Total travel time: 9:00 Trip: 39:35
Bike Riding time: 5:51 Trip: 31:06
Avg speed: 15.10 Trip: 12.80
Max speed: 26.10 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 339 Trip: 10,435
Avg pedal RPMs: 92 Trip: 86
Avg heart rate: 113 Trip: 123
Max heart rate: 149 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 5,278 Trip: 22,381
Weather Statistics:
High temp 67 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: against - light winds today but no help.
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 5
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 7 today - 8 total
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 6
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 19
Pints: 2 Trip: 11
Mood rating (1-10): 8 - hey, most people would be out of their minds with 7 flats. Other than the flats, the scenery was beautiful and the day was awesome. The double-cheeseburger was not bad either! I am optimistic that my flats are behind me....
First of all.... Thanks to everyone who has been following my blog and providing feedback. I really do appreciate all of the comments and support. I am not able to reply to everyone's comments but rest assured that I see them all on my Blackberry.
Today, I was hoping to beat the forecast of rain and I did! The weather was great with only light winds and partly sunny skies - no rain! I got up early at 5:30 to pack up and be on the road at first light. I stopped at the only gas station (which was open) in Solome and grabbed a home made biscuit with sausage and egg - very good. I washed it down with a coffee and was ready to roll by 7:15. The rain had just ended and the roads were wet. After 4 or 5 miles, I got another flat on my rear tire. What a pain in the butt. I put a new tube in and rolled on. Less than 1 mile later - bam - another rear flat. I checked out the tire and it looked bad with several deep cuts and lots of wear. I then swapped it out for my spare tire plus a patch on the tube. Back on the road again knowing I need to go close to 90 miles today. Then ssshhhhhssss, another flat but this time on the front. I patched it and checked the tire for thorns. Long sorry short, I had a total of 5 flats on the front over the next 10 miles. Finally, I replaced the front tire with my old back tire that was newer. Both tires got shredded by the rough country roads. Lesson learned here that I need more bullet proof tires! All along, I realized that I was going to run out of daylight due to the flat repairs so I rode like a madman whenever I could to gain some time - my avg mph was very good today. Eventually, things settled down just as I crested the last big climb of the day. From there, I cranked on the big gears for the last 40 miles at around 18-20 mph. I only stopped at Wickenburg at a Micky-D's for a quick double cheeseburger because I had a gift card and could use the fat and calories. All down hill all the way to Surprise Arizona which is just outside of Phoenix. I grabbed a room at a Holiday Inn Express that was brand new. The rate started out at 139 and I got the guy down to 75 when he gave me the key - my history of vendor negotiations at work has paid off today. I think I am the first person to sleep in my bed! After a long hot shower, I enjoyed the hotel happy hour, called my kids back in Raleigh to wish them a happy T-Giving, and then rode my bike to a TGI Fridays for dinner which was the only thing open. I wolfed down a big pasta meal with chicken (I did have a turkey sandwich for lunch) and then dodged some storms to ride back to the hotel. Called my parents to wish them a happy T-Giving as well. They were excited about my trip and have been following me closely. Gonna finish this write-up and crash.
Today really tested my patience but I consulted with Wilson and he said to fix the flat and move on as this is still better than sitting behind a desk. I said good point, changed the album on the boom box, and moved forward.
Tomorrow will be a light day through Phoenix as I look for a bike shop to replace my worn out tires.
Good night everyone!
Weather: Much better than the weather channel predicted! Cloudy early, then sunny around noon, and partly cloudy in the late afternoon. Perfect.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 88 Trip: 386
Total travel time: 9:00 Trip: 39:35
Bike Riding time: 5:51 Trip: 31:06
Avg speed: 15.10 Trip: 12.80
Max speed: 26.10 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 339 Trip: 10,435
Avg pedal RPMs: 92 Trip: 86
Avg heart rate: 113 Trip: 123
Max heart rate: 149 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 5,278 Trip: 22,381
Weather Statistics:
High temp 67 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: against - light winds today but no help.
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 5
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 7 today - 8 total
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 6
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 19
Pints: 2 Trip: 11
Mood rating (1-10): 8 - hey, most people would be out of their minds with 7 flats. Other than the flats, the scenery was beautiful and the day was awesome. The double-cheeseburger was not bad either! I am optimistic that my flats are behind me....
Thursday, November 27, 2008
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.6341
Longitude:-112.3769
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/27/2008 15:22:03 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.6341,-112.3769&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.6341
Longitude:-112.3769
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/27/2008 15:22:03 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.6341,-112.3769&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Day 5 - Wednesday, November 26
Description: OK, today was payback for the last 4 days of great weather. I woke up to the sound of a heavy rain - uggg. After a quick breakfast (weak continental), I put the rain covers on all of my gear and broke out the Gore-Tex jacket and shoe covers. After 3 miles of warm-up, I crossed the Colorado river and left California for Arizona. Had to push my watch forward an hour and instantly gained an extra hour of sleep. It was raining like crazy as I pressed on. From there, I rode on I-10 for the next 11 miles and climbed up a steep mountain pass and then down into the small town of Quartzsite. I stopped for some breakfast at Micky-Ds. But, there were several homeless guys scoping out my bike so I decided to move on. After a few miles, I found a small bakery and grabbed some home made donuts and coffee to thaw me out - umm umm good. Then I was back on I-10 and cranked up another mountain pass which was a challenge with 20-30 MPH winds to go with the rain. I exited at Brenda (a dumppy hole in the wall) and then rode onto rt 60. Crap, I got a rear tire flat! Of course, my spare tube and tire levers were deep at the bottom of my packs - lesson learned here! Then I remembered that Ron gave me a can of bike Fix-A-Flat. I put it in the tire and it looked good except not enough air came out. I used my hand pump and then the valve stem on the tube broke. Now I had to dig into my bags and replace the tube which was a mess. Was a big thorn that got me. Finally got it fixed and moved on. Then I rode into Hope (a welcome sight) Arizona and stopped at the local gas station for some coffee and a bean & steak burrito (thanks for the tip Dayne). From there, only an 8 mile mountain pass stood between me and a hot shower in Solome. No problem! I grabbed a room at Shefflers Motel that is owned by the local Sheriff. I jokingly asked if it was safe and he laughed and said sometimes. After checking in, I put my wet stuff out on the front porch to dry out and took a shower. Then the door knocked and the Sheriffs wife said that I should not leave my stuff outside as there were some homeless people wandering around and they might take it! So much for being safe. Then I went across the street for a good dinner at Christina's Cafe and Cactus Bar. But guess what, they were closed because their roof was leaking - everyone says it never rains around here!!!! Finally, I went next door for some pizza at the local gas station which was not all that bad when washed down with a Tecate or 2. .
Gonna crash as I have 91 miles to ride tomorrow on T-Giving day. I am hoping for no rain and wind.
Weather: Awful day. Heavy rain almost the whole day with a stiff head wind. These are not good biking conditions!!!!
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 61 Trip: 297
Total travel time: 8:00 Trip: 30:35
Bike Riding time: 5:49 Trip: 25:15
Avg speed: 10.51 Trip: 12.30
Max speed: 22.63 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,688 Trip: 10,096
Avg pedal RPMs: 88 Trip: 85
Avg heart rate: 107 Trip: 125
Max heart rate: 142 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 3,278 Trip: 17,103
Weather Statistics:
High temp 64 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 8 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: major against
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 4
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 1
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 5
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 15
Pints: 2 Trip: 9
Mood rating (1-10): 8 - gotta admit that today was a mental test but I am still in a good mood!
Gonna crash as I have 91 miles to ride tomorrow on T-Giving day. I am hoping for no rain and wind.
Weather: Awful day. Heavy rain almost the whole day with a stiff head wind. These are not good biking conditions!!!!
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 61 Trip: 297
Total travel time: 8:00 Trip: 30:35
Bike Riding time: 5:49 Trip: 25:15
Avg speed: 10.51 Trip: 12.30
Max speed: 22.63 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,688 Trip: 10,096
Avg pedal RPMs: 88 Trip: 85
Avg heart rate: 107 Trip: 125
Max heart rate: 142 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 3,278 Trip: 17,103
Weather Statistics:
High temp 64 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 8 Trip: 8
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: major against
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 4
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 1
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 5
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 15
Pints: 2 Trip: 9
Mood rating (1-10): 8 - gotta admit that today was a mental test but I am still in a good mood!
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.7806
Longitude:-113.6153
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/26/2008 15:02:58 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.7806,-113.6153&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.7806
Longitude:-113.6153
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/26/2008 15:02:58 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.7806,-113.6153&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
My ride wednesday. Another challenge.
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It is tuesday afternoon. If i had not just ridden 89 miles.
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Day 4 - Tuesday, November 25
Description: Another great day of riding. Got up early and had a big breakfast in the hotel. It was there that they told me it was raining earlier and they said it was the first rain in a year - just my luck. By the time I pushed off at 7:15, it was only spitting a little. A rain cloud chased me all day but lost as I never got wet! The wind, on the other hand, did successfully beat me up all day except about a half hour stretch in the desert. I rode through many miles of desert which was really wild looking. At Glamis, there was a desert recreation park and there were hundreds of massive RVs and off-road vehicles everywhere climbing all around and over some big sand dunes. It looked like a lot of fun. They looked at me (with their big beer guts) as if I was weird. At the Glamis country store, I grabbed a sandwich and Mountain Dew. They wanted 2 bucks to use their bathroom so I just rolled on with my legs crossed and later watered a desert flower. Then I climbed through a good size mountain pass and then zoomed down through farm land (more hay and some cotton) and next to the Colorado river. It was all down hill to Blythe - the end my day. The total ride was just under 89 miles.
And finally, I would like to thank everyone who has given me advice with Blog comments and direct emails. I could not have make it this far without input such as: Don't forget to correctly change your clocks in AZ (Sporadic Sparano); Please pedal faster as the 10 minute tracking bubbles are too close to read (Slow Tim and Mike Daniels); Make sure you take your vitamins (my dad); Keep an eye out for La Quinta hotels as they have partnered with Dominos (Jeff Miller - and I thought they were in bed with Denny's); AND my personal Starbucks tracking system (Daniels has been sending directions - thx).
This email was sent from the Starbucks in Blythe while enjoying a double Pumpkin Spice Latte as a gesture to Mike who loves pumpkin.
Weather: Overcast, a few sprinkles, and cool - perfect for riding. Rain is predicted for tomorrow - yikes!
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 88.61 Trip: 236
Total travel time: 8:00 Trip: 22:35
Bike Riding time: 6:58 Trip: 19:26
Avg speed: 12.73 Trip: 12.79
Max speed: 28.54 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,179 Trip: 8,405
Avg pedal RPMs: 88 Trip: 85
Avg heart rate: 123 Trip: 130
Max heart rate: ?? Trip: 189 - computer did not store max today??
Calories burned: 4,979 Trip: 13,825
Weather Statistics:
High temp 65 Trip: 75
Low temp: 60 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: against me
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 3
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 4
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 11
Pints: 2 Trip: 7
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - still going strong. Wilson is also have a great time. So far, he has not drifted off of the bike (raft).
Good night.
And finally, I would like to thank everyone who has given me advice with Blog comments and direct emails. I could not have make it this far without input such as: Don't forget to correctly change your clocks in AZ (Sporadic Sparano); Please pedal faster as the 10 minute tracking bubbles are too close to read (Slow Tim and Mike Daniels); Make sure you take your vitamins (my dad); Keep an eye out for La Quinta hotels as they have partnered with Dominos (Jeff Miller - and I thought they were in bed with Denny's); AND my personal Starbucks tracking system (Daniels has been sending directions - thx).
This email was sent from the Starbucks in Blythe while enjoying a double Pumpkin Spice Latte as a gesture to Mike who loves pumpkin.
Weather: Overcast, a few sprinkles, and cool - perfect for riding. Rain is predicted for tomorrow - yikes!
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 88.61 Trip: 236
Total travel time: 8:00 Trip: 22:35
Bike Riding time: 6:58 Trip: 19:26
Avg speed: 12.73 Trip: 12.79
Max speed: 28.54 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,179 Trip: 8,405
Avg pedal RPMs: 88 Trip: 85
Avg heart rate: 123 Trip: 130
Max heart rate: ?? Trip: 189 - computer did not store max today??
Calories burned: 4,979 Trip: 13,825
Weather Statistics:
High temp 65 Trip: 75
Low temp: 60 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: against me
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 3
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 4
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 4 Trip: 11
Pints: 2 Trip: 7
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - still going strong. Wilson is also have a great time. So far, he has not drifted off of the bike (raft).
Good night.
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.611
Longitude:-114.5841
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/25/2008 15:06:25 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.611,-114.5841&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:33.611
Longitude:-114.5841
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/25/2008 15:06:25 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=33.611,-114.5841&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Day 3 - Monday, November 24
Description: Today was a breeze with a big downhill off of the mountain followed up with flats. I had a quick breakfast of muffins, bagels, and coffee. Started rolling around 8:15. Since it was now down to just Wilson and me (and he was already tired of hearing my stories), I cranked up the MP3 player and portable speakers. The selection today included Boston, CCR, and Days of the New (thanks George and Zachery for hooking me up with the tunes). The day started with a climb for a few miles and then jumped back onto I-8 for a very very fast and beautiful downhill for 7 miles through the Chocolate mountains. I stopped several times for pictures and to take in the views. The cars that were passing me on the interstate looked at me as if I was nuts. At the bottom, I entered the Yuha desert. As Mr Smit warned me about, there is absolutely nothing there but sand and wind. I feel lucky as the winds were not too bad but the sand did make the corners of my eyes sore and crusty. Then I rode through Plaster City which is only a massive USG drywall factory. The roads for 10 miles on both sides were the roughest that I have ever ridden on - I suspect due to the heavy trucks. Plaster City is also big for off-road riders and racers. I saw lots of them playing in the sand from a distance. From there I rode for miles through huge fields of hay/stray. These folks irrigate the sand, grow grass, and then make straw bails. There were stacks of covered bails for as far as I could see - very bizarre. I cannot figure how this could be profitable. From there I stopped to refuel in Seeley. I say a FedEx truck driver at a gas station and asked where the Starbucks was. He said with a chuckle that there was Jose's taco stand and this gas station. I settled for some chocolate milk, apple pie, peanuts, and a banana. After that, I rode to El Centro which is fairly big (38k population) and very busy with traffic. I stopped at Sonic for a couple of burgers and a soda. Still no sigh for Starbucks - rats. Then I rode the final 15 miles into Brawley (22k pop). Before finding my hotel, I stopped at the post office to ship back my spare seat. My new and last minute gel (feels like gummy bears under my butt) seat is doing well. I rolled into the brand new Best Western after 2. I had plenty of miles left in me but this was the last stop for 85 miles. I checked in, rode up to Wal-mart for some supplies, grabbed some Chinese take-out for dinner, and celebrated the passing of the Tecate Divide by buying a couple of Tecates to drink. And finally, I uploaded some pictures from my camera - check them out. Gotta grab some sleep for an early start tomorrow. Good night.
Weather: Another awesome day. Cool in the morning, then sunny and pleasant, ending with clouds.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 60 Trip: 148
Total travel time: 5:00 Trip: 14:35
Bike Riding time: 3:56 Trip: 12:28
Avg speed: 15.5 Trip: 12.82
Max speed: 31.86 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 480 Trip: 7,226
Avg pedal RPMs: 88 Trip: 84
Avg heart rate: 117 Trip: 132
Max heart rate: 175 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 2,812 Trip: 8,846
Weather Statistics:
High temp 68 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: Against - breeze all day in the face
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 2
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 3
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 2 Trip: 7
Pints: 2 Trip: 5
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - perfect so far.
Weather: Another awesome day. Cool in the morning, then sunny and pleasant, ending with clouds.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 60 Trip: 148
Total travel time: 5:00 Trip: 14:35
Bike Riding time: 3:56 Trip: 12:28
Avg speed: 15.5 Trip: 12.82
Max speed: 31.86 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 480 Trip: 7,226
Avg pedal RPMs: 88 Trip: 84
Avg heart rate: 117 Trip: 132
Max heart rate: 175 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 2,812 Trip: 8,846
Weather Statistics:
High temp 68 Trip: 75
Low temp: 58 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: Against - breeze all day in the face
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 2
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 3
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 2 Trip: 7
Pints: 2 Trip: 5
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - perfect so far.
Monday, November 24, 2008
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.978
Longitude:-115.5152
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/24/2008 14:17:14 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.978,-115.5152&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.978
Longitude:-115.5152
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/24/2008 14:17:14 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.978,-115.5152&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Day 2 - Sunday, November 23
Description: Today was expected to a big challenge and it was! I got a great night's sleep at Caroline and Shane's house. Woke up to some fresh java and Shane's famous blueberry pancakes - um um good. I packed Wilson (my soccer ball) and all of my stuff up and prepared to launch. Shane volunteered to provide an Ironman escort for the first 10+ miles which was great. We said our goodbyes to Caroline and were off around 9:15. The first mechanical failure occurred after 8 miles. Shane could not shift up to his big chain ring anymore. Good thing I am carrying a bike shop in my bags so we stopped for a quick repair. We then rode up to Interstate 8 where we met Tony who would provide me another Ironman triathlete escort. This makes 3 awesome athletes (Shane, Teri, Tony who have over 6 Ironman events between them) who have led me the first 45 miles of my trip out of San Diego beach. Tony and I just got started riding when a red neck in a big 4x4 pickup was coming down the hill in the opposite direction. He honked his horn, leaned out of his window, and yelled #u## you!! I don't think he likes cyclists for some reason. Tony waived hi and on we went climbing up the big mountain. At one point, we actually rode on I-8 for about 5 miles which felt very weird but safe as there were wide shoulders. We climbed 20 miles with no relief all the way up to Pine Valley. At that point, we reloaded our water bottles and then grabbed some monster burgers and some chocolate ice creams. After a few final photos, Tony went back down the hill to go home and Wilson and I pressed on for another 30 miles. I did some quick math and figured out that daylight was running out on me. I severely under-estimated the steepness and the length of the mountain and my average MPHs were down around 9. I should have started earlier! I picked up the pace and rode on knowing I had lights on the bike if needed. I thought the mountain would never end. At every turn, it just keep going up and up. Part of the way up, the wind picked up stiff in my face which added to the toughness. Near the top, I saw a windmill power generation farm which confirms the winds are typically stiff up there. I also saw an Indian Casino at the top which was strange. At the top, I put my jacket on and turned on my lights. The last 8 miles were very fast and all I saw were Border Patrol officers in trucks and on foot. I had to weave around some guys patrolling the sides of the road. At this point, I was right on the Mexico border. I finally reached the Jacumba hotel and spa around 5:15 just after dusk. I would guess that I rode 40+ miles of steep climbing for the day.
After checking in, I enjoyed an awesome mexican dinner and then hit a hot tub and sauna. All in all, a very terrific day with my new Hasher friends and relief that I beat the mountain. Tomorrow will be all downhill to the desert floor but there will surely be stiff head winds and high temps. I plan to ride another 70 miles. Good night!
Weather: started cool and overcast, then sunny and warm, and finally cold and windy at dark.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 68.77 Trip: 87.99
Total travel time: 8:00 Trip: 9:35
Bike Riding time: 7.05 Trip: 8.32
Avg speed: 9.70 Trip: 11.48
Max speed: 31.43 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 5,628 Trip: 6,746
Avg pedal RPMs: 77 Trip: 82
Avg heart rate: 136 Trip: 440
Max heart rate: 189 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 4,710 Trip: 6,034
Weather Statistics:
High temp 68 Trip: 75
Low temp: 55 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: Against in second half
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 1
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 1 (but this was Shane's bike)
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 2
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 2 Trip: 5
Pints: 1 Trip: 3
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - still awesome!
After checking in, I enjoyed an awesome mexican dinner and then hit a hot tub and sauna. All in all, a very terrific day with my new Hasher friends and relief that I beat the mountain. Tomorrow will be all downhill to the desert floor but there will surely be stiff head winds and high temps. I plan to ride another 70 miles. Good night!
Weather: started cool and overcast, then sunny and warm, and finally cold and windy at dark.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 68.77 Trip: 87.99
Total travel time: 8:00 Trip: 9:35
Bike Riding time: 7.05 Trip: 8.32
Avg speed: 9.70 Trip: 11.48
Max speed: 31.43 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 5,628 Trip: 6,746
Avg pedal RPMs: 77 Trip: 82
Avg heart rate: 136 Trip: 440
Max heart rate: 189 Trip: 189
Calories burned: 4,710 Trip: 6,034
Weather Statistics:
High temp 68 Trip: 75
Low temp: 55 Trip: 55
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: Against in second half
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 1
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 1 (but this was Shane's bike)
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 2
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 2 Trip: 5
Pints: 1 Trip: 3
Mood rating (1-10): 10 - still awesome!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
OK ESN:0-7458562
This is Steve and I am checking in to let everyone know that I have finished my ride for the day safe and sound.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.6178
Longitude:-116.1888
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/23/2008 17:13:10 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.6178,-116.1888&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.6178
Longitude:-116.1888
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/23/2008 17:13:10 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.6178,-116.1888&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Day 1 - Saturday, November 22
Description: I slept in (recovering from welcoming party last night) until 8:30 this morning. This totally recharged my batteries. After a big breakfast, Scott took me to REI to buy some cookstove fuel. At REI, Tony (who will join me tomorrow) paid a visit with his kids (see prior post) to wish me luck. After grabbing a quick sandwich for lunch, I packed up the Mean Green Machine to start my trek at the ocean. Mike Ladd decided to join me and escort me from Teresa's house down to the beach and then out to his house in Santee along with Teri). Mike and I said our goodbyes to Teresa and off we went to the beach. Mike took several pictures and a video to document my "official" start. The rear wheel was dipped into the Pacific ocean (see prior post) and I was ready to start. Teri joined us at the beach and off I went with an escort of 2 Ironman triathletes showing me the way. Smit said the ride to Santee was flat and he was a liar! There were 2 serious hills (6-8 % grade) just prior to completing my initial 20 mile leg to Santee. After a quick shower, I enjoyed a huge dinner of pasta, salad, bread, Tira Masu, beer, and wine. It was awesome - thanks Carolyn. In addition to Carolyn and Mike, I was joined for dinner by Teri, John, and Carol - all Hasher friends of the Smit's. The plan is to get up tomorrow and ride 60+ miles to the top of the mountain. Another Hasher, Tony, is going to join me for the ride. Today was a great start to my trip and I appreciated all of the efforts and friendship of the Hashers that have helped me.
Weather: Mostly sunny and low humidity. Perfect.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 19.22 Trip: 19.22
Total travel time: 1:35 Trip: 1:35
Bike Riding time: 1:27 Trip: 1:27
Avg speed: 13.26 Trip: 13.26
Max speed: 36.31 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,118 Trip: 1,118
Avg pedal RPMs: 87 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 144 Trip: 144
Max heart rate: 176 Trip: 176
Calories burned: 1,324 Trip: 1,324
Weather Statistics:
High temp: 75 Trip: 75
Low temp: 60 Trip: 60
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: Neutral
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 0
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel ( Carolyn and Mike's house)
Total hotel nights: 1
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 3
Pints: 2 Trip: 2
Mood rating (1-10): 10 Awesome day.
Weather: Mostly sunny and low humidity. Perfect.
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 19.22 Trip: 19.22
Total travel time: 1:35 Trip: 1:35
Bike Riding time: 1:27 Trip: 1:27
Avg speed: 13.26 Trip: 13.26
Max speed: 36.31 Trip: 36.31
Total ascent (ft): 1,118 Trip: 1,118
Avg pedal RPMs: 87 Trip: 87
Avg heart rate: 144 Trip: 144
Max heart rate: 176 Trip: 176
Calories burned: 1,324 Trip: 1,324
Weather Statistics:
High temp: 75 Trip: 75
Low temp: 60 Trip: 60
Hours of rain: 0 Trip: 0
Hours of snow: 0 Trip: 0
Total days of rain/snow: 0
Wind factor: Neutral
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 0
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 0
Mechanical failures: 0
Hotel or camping today: hotel ( Carolyn and Mike's house)
Total hotel nights: 1
Total camping nights: 0
Cups of coffee: 3 Trip: 3
Pints: 2 Trip: 2
Mood rating (1-10): 10 Awesome day.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
OK ESN:0-7458562
Hi, this is Steve and I am just checking in to let everyone know that I am doing fine on my great bike adventure.
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.8682
Longitude:-117.003
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/22/2008 16:54:24 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.8682,-117.003&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
ESN:0-7458562
Latitude:32.8682
Longitude:-117.003
Nearest Location:not known
Distance:not known
Time:11/22/2008 16:54:24 (US/Pacific)
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=32.8682,-117.003&ie=UTF8&z=12&om=1
Day 0 - Friday, November 21
Today was the first day of my trek and it was great. I woke up to snow - can you believe that? George picked me up bright and early at 5:45 with a fresh cup of Starbucks coffee. He dropped me off at the Southwest terminal and we said our last goodbyes. I flew through Vegas to San Diego and both flights were smooth and on time. Ron picked me up at the airport and took me to his really cool bike shop to hook me up with my bike. Man, does Ron have a lot of cool, high dollar, tricked out bikes! Anyway, I finished my bike assembly and took it for a test ride. The Mean Green Machine was in top form and ready to go.
Next, Ron took me to Teresa's house for a welcoming party with the local Hasher's running group. These were Kevin and Theresa Smit's buddies from when they used to live in San Diego. They actually spoke highly of Kevin which I could not believe :-) We enjoyed pizza, salad, wine, and a few pints. A great dinner and plenty of carbs for the days ahead. Thank you Theresa and Scott for hosting the party.
Teri from the Hasher's group offered to meet me tomorrow afternoon at 3 to "officially" dip my back wheel in the Pacific and begin my ride. We plan to ride 20+ miles to Santee for another dinner and carb replenishment. Sunday is when the first major day of riding begins.
I look forward to tomorrow. Good night!
Next, Ron took me to Teresa's house for a welcoming party with the local Hasher's running group. These were Kevin and Theresa Smit's buddies from when they used to live in San Diego. They actually spoke highly of Kevin which I could not believe :-) We enjoyed pizza, salad, wine, and a few pints. A great dinner and plenty of carbs for the days ahead. Thank you Theresa and Scott for hosting the party.
Teri from the Hasher's group offered to meet me tomorrow afternoon at 3 to "officially" dip my back wheel in the Pacific and begin my ride. We plan to ride 20+ miles to Santee for another dinner and carb replenishment. Sunday is when the first major day of riding begins.
I look forward to tomorrow. Good night!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
One Day to Go !
It has been a long week of preparations and I am JUST about there. Almost caught-up with my “TODO” list in the office and only a couple of items at home that I will address tonight. One FINAL trip to REI and a hair cut on the way home and then try to get some sleep before my ride to the airport shows up at 5:45 am. Am currently running on very little sleep but realize that rest and relaxation is just ahead of me with only 80 miles a day of riding for the next six weeks.
Gotta run (or should I say ride)…. Steve!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Final Preparations - 2 Days Until I Depart - Yikes
I am just about ready to take on this adventure. I received confirmation that my bike shipped successfully to San Diego - thanks Ron. Kevin and Theresa Smit had a “send off” party for me last Friday night which was a blast – thank you. I had a great time enjoying the fun, food, and especially the gag gifts. Sunday was my final bike training ride. I met Kevin’s usual ride group at Bruggers for 30 miles and then several of us broke off to join an Apex bike shop ride for another 40+ miles. All of this week has been a scramble getting organized at home and at work so that I can be ready for the Friday morning departure. Work has been busy with several late nights trying to get ahead and finish up with my large “To Do” list. Kevin’s friends in San Diego have also been very active planning out several parties to provide a warm welcome in the wild west. Here is the plan for the weekend: Fly out Friday morning at 7:30 and get to San Diego around 11:30; A welcome party Friday night; Dip my back wheel into the Pacific ocean on Saturday morning and then take an easy 20 mile ride to Lakeside which is at the base of the mountain; Another gathering Saturday night; Get up early Sunday morning and take on a very steep 60 mile ride to the top of the mountain; Recover at the top of the mountain in a hotel; From Monday on I was told it would be all downhill to Florida.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
12 Days to Go - Packed the Bike.
| Less than 2 weeks to go until I fly out on the 21st. I had a good but relatively light weekend of training including 62 miles on Friday, 40 miles on Saturday, and 54 miles on Sunday. The Sunday ride was on my 16 lb Kestrel carbon bike which felt very strange and extremely twitchy after riding the 70+ lb Mean Green Machine for the last 6 weeks. The Mean Green Machine was retired after the Saturday ride as I began preparation for shipping to San Diego. I spent Friday evening and Saturday afternoon doing my final shopping at Performance Bike and REI to complete my packing list. Saturday night was a bike send-off party that a few of my close friends had for me - check out the awesome cake on my previous post! Tonight, I took my daughters out to dinner to celebrate Heidi's awesome report card from school and Tria's new skills in Algebra. Then the girls helped me box-up the bike. I could not have done it without them. I will drop the bike off at UPS on Monday morning and they say it will be in San Diego on Friday. |
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Friday, November 7, 2008
Daily Ride Posting - Template
I plan to post an entry into this blog site every day with a brief overview of what happened and some key statistics. Note, there will be some days with no cell coverage so do not be alarmed if I miss a day or two. Eventually, I will pick up signal coverage, and then the posts will hit the site.
Below is the template that I will be leveraging for my posts:
Day 1 - Saturday, November 22
Description: What a great day of riding - blaa blaa blaa
Weather: The day was warm and sunny
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 11 Trip: 11
Total travel time: 1:11 Trip: 1:11
Bike Riding time: 1:11 Trip: 1:11
Avg speed: 11.1 Trip: 11.1
Max speed: 11.11 Trip: 11.11
Total ascent (ft): 1,111 Trip: 1,111
Avg pedal RPMs: 11 Trip: 11
Avg heart rate: 111 Trip: 111
Max heart rate: 111 Trip: 111
Calories burned: 1,111 Trip: 1,111
Weather Statistics:
High temp 11 Trip: 11
Low temp: 11 Trip: 11
Hours of rain: 11 Trip: 11
Hours of snow: 11 Trip: 11
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: Neutral
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 1
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 1
Mechanical failures: 1
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 1
Total camping nights: 1
Cups of coffee: 1 Trip: 11
Pints: 1 Trip:11
Mood rating (1-10): 9
Below is the template that I will be leveraging for my posts:
Day 1 - Saturday, November 22
Description: What a great day of riding - blaa blaa blaa
Weather: The day was warm and sunny
Performance Metrics:
Miles: 11 Trip: 11
Total travel time: 1:11 Trip: 1:11
Bike Riding time: 1:11 Trip: 1:11
Avg speed: 11.1 Trip: 11.1
Max speed: 11.11 Trip: 11.11
Total ascent (ft): 1,111 Trip: 1,111
Avg pedal RPMs: 11 Trip: 11
Avg heart rate: 111 Trip: 111
Max heart rate: 111 Trip: 111
Calories burned: 1,111 Trip: 1,111
Weather Statistics:
High temp 11 Trip: 11
Low temp: 11 Trip: 11
Hours of rain: 11 Trip: 11
Hours of snow: 11 Trip: 11
Total days of rain/snow: 1
Wind factor: Neutral
Total good wind days: 1
Total bad wind days: 1
Misc. Stats:
Flat tires: 1
Mechanical failures: 1
Hotel or camping today: hotel
Total hotel nights: 1
Total camping nights: 1
Cups of coffee: 1 Trip: 11
Pints: 1 Trip:11
Mood rating (1-10): 9
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