the guy factor

[bikerbarb]

Independence pass wasn't as hard as you might think. Back home here in Pittsburgh, I was biking up a long hill--the same 6 miles/hr and thinking, yes, just this road ten times! There are steeper grades here. The important thing was to pace myself and not use up my reserves. It was surprising the thin air didn't bother me. I remember as a young 21 year old--more than half my life ago--I biked up Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National park on my cross the country ride with full gear and that seemed to get to me more. I was giddy and light headed. This time I wasn't. Lighter bike, less gear? who knows. But it is really doable though I recommend early in the day. The traffic started to build as we were descending.

I would be so annoyed by the crashed out behavior you all are describing. I would not put up with it. I'd hire someone to come in and clean and order in food. Are you kidding?

[HappyAnika]

Independence pass wasn't as hard as you might think.

I would be so annoyed by the crashed out behavior you all are describing. I would not put up with it. I'd hire someone to come in and clean and order in food. Are you kidding?

LOL! I keep threatening my husband with hiring someone to clean the house. I swear it is not far off, once our bank account has recovered from grad school.

I still think that is so awesome about you riding Ind. Pass. I always worry about my father in law from AZ when he comes up here to hike in the summer. The altitude always bothers him more than he thinks it will. So far the highest I've ridden is 7,000 ft. Next summer I think we will venture more into the high country.