It was just over 9 miles, which I can do easily. I just never felt "on" during the ride this morning, like my body didn't have the energy it needed. I have a Dolce Elite, and there are no braze ons for a rack, and it has a carbon seat post, so I can't do one of those racks. This is foremost my road bike, so I don't necessarilly want to start adding stuff to it that I won't need during my regular rides. I just can't fathom lugging my mountain bike and it's 30+ lbs, or I'd attach some racks to that. Until I find a nice beater bike, this is my best option.

I've started lifting again, so hopefully my shoulders will get stronger. I can probably adjust the straps so that it's higher on my back, too. Aside from that, my legs were pretty tired and as I said, my heart rate was a bit high. What do you guys eat before you ride? I have to have something in me, or I crash completely.