finished my first tour

[Barb]

I had an awesome time! I rode the PALM (pedal across lower michigan). I made some new freinds and learned sooo much. I several personal bests. First time I rode 60 miles at once, first time I hit 28 mph downhill, and I rode faster with greater ease overall, even when I was not with a pack. The landscape was mostly farms and beautiful century old farm houses. We also rode for about half a day around gull lake. Several times during the tour, I laughed so hard with my friend that I almost had to pull over. That might have been the best part of the ride!

We stopped at a really cool car museum and visited the Jiffy Mix factory. My friend picked up Bobbi the bear from a teddy bear factory in Chelsea and we found some lovely places to by a Cosmo! We also got to visit Cabelas in Dundee.

This is what I learned:

1. Better spinning technique

2. More effficient shifting....especially on hills

3. Buying the tour meals is not always the best way to go (yuk)

4. My handlebars are a bit too low. I have a tingly pinch in my shoulder and my hands are still sore 3 days later!


I may do this tour again next year, but I also want to do one in July South to North in Michigan. That one benefits rails to trails.

I have to tend to my bike now. She is squeeking like a dime store 3 speed! A full wash and relube is just the ticket.