Thank goodness its spring break - time to unwind, ride and be lazy for a few days. Yesterday I logged 56 miles and rode through some absolutely beautiful countryside in northern Tenn and southern Kentucky. My goal to make to the state park lodge before the dining room closed - they have the best cherry cobbler! The 6% grade climb made me thankful I have a granny gear. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, the skies were a beautiful blue. I made it in time to have that piece of cherry cobbler and then headed home. Oh my gosh the wind was awful and it was kicking my butt! Stopped a local grocery for a break and some refreshment before tackling the last part of the ride. In the end I logged 56 miles and had a respectable average speed given my battle with the wind.
Today, I decided to head the opposite direction - new game plan - battle the wind first and let it push me home. Off I headed to a small community 20 miles in the opposite direction. This ride is not as pretty as yesterday's but I got to follow the Cumberland River and it is always fun to watch. The wind was worse today, flags were straight out and the gust were unbelievable. Riding out I felt good when I got my speed up to 15 mph - most of the time it was hanging in the 13 - 13.5 range. Stopped at a local store for an ice cream cone and drink and turned the bike around. I found myself giving thanks for a triple today - not sure a compact would have allowed me to climb and battle the wind. Coming home I was able to utilize my large chain ring and really crank. What a difference this made. Speeds climbed into the low 20s and the ride home was far more enjoyable then the first half. The skies are an awesome blue today, sun is shining, temps in the low 80's - near perfection. Logged close to 40 miles today and with the help the strong tailwind I was able to post a respectable ride. Time to rest now and enjoy my time off for it won't be long before it is back to work.
