Breaking Free!

[Jiffer]

When I first started I took lots of breaks. Stop whenever you need to, even if just for a minute. I bet you're going to have a great time.

[MommyBird]

One thing I like to do is post a copy of my route on our refrigerator. I have printed maps of a variety of route lengths from my rural driveway. I put the one I am doing on the top of the stack and tell my boys I'm going out.

My Blackburn Fleas also make me feel more secure on the road. I have the head and tail lights and I put them both in the flicker mode.

I am still a long way off from having a hydration and nutrition routine. I haven't had any major issues yet but summer is approaching fast.

Something that my husband continues to remind me to do is make eye contact with drivers at intersections and at driveways. Never assume they have seen you until you get the nod or wave.

I have enjoyed my graduation to the real roads. Sometimes my husband tries to get me back to my practice park just for a loop and I won't do it. It is too claustrophobic after the wide open roads.

I am sure you will quickly take to the open road as well.

[lph]

Have a wonderful time Remember to "think car" - you're not a pedestrian squeezing along the side, you're a "car" in traffic, just a slow one. Your priority is to be visible and moving in a straight line on the right-hand side of the road, then traffic will have no trouble just passing you when it's clear. Your speed makes no difference, cars move much faster then you anyway. If you feel that looking behind you makes you wobble or weave, don't do it, or stop to do so.

[kermit]

You are gonna have a blast. Just wear something visible and stay hydrated. Keep a cell phone with you. Do you have a road ID? A great investment.

[Catrin]

You are gonna have a blast. Just wear something visible and stay hydrated. Keep a cell phone with you. Do you have a road ID? A great investment.

Yes, I have a bright purple Road ID for my wrist My Trek only has room for one water cage though... That should be ok, I don't think 15 miles requires a Camelbak (though I do have one). Part of my loop takes me through a small town and should I need something by then I am sure there is someplace I can stop. Of course I could put another bottle in my back jersey pocket...hmmmm

[indysteel]

Yes, I have a bright purple Road ID for my wrist My Trek only has room for one water cage though... That should be ok, I don't think 15 miles requires a Camelbak (though I do have one). Part of my loop takes me through a small town and should I need something by then I am sure there is someplace I can stop. Of course I could put another bottle in my back jersey pocket...hmmmm

I think one bottle--especially if it's 20 ounces--will be plenty. Bring a few dollars with you if you really think you might run low on anything. You'll do just fine.

Where's your route taking you?

[Catrin]

I think one bottle--especially if it's 20 ounces--will be plenty. Bring a few dollars with you if you really think you might run low on anything. You'll do just fine.

Where's your route taking you?

Thanks for the vote of confidence

I will start on Kissel Rd in Boone county, go north to E 550 S and go west, then make my way to Main Street though the heart of the metropolis of Whitestown, then up to 200 and go east, south on 900E, west on 300S, then south on 800 East until I get back to my car in a church parking lot on Kissel. Right about 15 miles in total - I've been told about the route from the person who suggested it, but I may drive it right before riding it.