Lesson 1… The bungee cords for the tent did not keep on top of the trunk. During the 10 mile ride to the gas station ralley point the tent slipped way back on the trunk, it didn’t fall off the bike but was not where I wanted it. Solution… Use a strap to attach the tent to the “spider-web” bungee holding the sleeping bag to the rear seat.
Lesson 2… The load changed not only the waight of the bike but the center of gravity and added a great deal of surface to catch any cross wind. Solution… Be ready for anything and don’t ride near the edge of the lane.
Lesson 3… Mountain passes get cold even in May. Solution… Pack several layers of clothes and lots of chemical hand warmers.
Lesson 4… Expect the unexpected. This is a two part lesson – first weather we had clear weather for the ride but it rained Friday night, thankfully we were in our tents before it started and when we woke we found that it was more than rain as we found almost an inch of snow on the ground in the morning. Great test for my new sleeping bag, I slept great.
The next unexpected part was the wildlife. We had several close encounters with Deer and since I returned Saturday to be home for Mother’s Day I missed the “Ghost Goat” on Sunday. Scott was following Phil into and valley and as the road turned to the left as a mountain goat jumped the right guard rail and ran alongside of Phil’s bike for a few seconds. Since Phil was looking in the direction of the turn he never saw the goat, hence ghost goat. Solution… Slow down and smell the roses.Thank you Benny for sending your daughter to college in such a cool part of the state and thank you Phil and Scott for the ride this was a great weekend.
This ride makes me feel better about the July trip which starts eight weeks from today – Wahoo!
This ride makes me feel better about the July trip which starts eight weeks from today – Wahoo!
3 comments:
YAY John! I am so excited for you!
What a scream that ride was eh? I've had a number of guys mention that they are "fair weather" riders and doing a ride into one of the coldest/snowiest parts of Colorado--in May no less--is not their idea of fun riding. It was a good test of gear, riding ability, guts and a passion for adventure over comfort. Well done John!
John, sounds like a great time I missed. Lot's of lessons to be learned here, would make a great magazine article (Hint). Bet the July trip will be even better. Be Blessed and Be seen anytime you ride.
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