Katy Flatlander - Good first metric ride??

[OakLeaf]

the main advantage is that it won't start melting or oozing oil the way tar does

That just reinforces what I said about materials and care in application. The main *dis*advantage of chipseal in Ohio is that the tar melts when it's hot (like over 90, which probably wouldn't even be considered hot in Texas). Rarely does it pool - that pretty much only happens when the tar was overapplied in spots - but the first thing you notice is a crackling sound when the tar sticks to your tires. You really notice the rolling resistance. Then you have to clean it off your tires and frame.

That doesn't happen, here, with real asphalt, at least at the bicycle level ... freeways with a lot of truck traffic do develop ruts in hot weather if they were poorly paved. Parking lot paving, you can really tell the difference in construction quality when you park a motorcycle in hot weather ... can you put the sidestand down for a five-minute run into the building without a support? If you use a sidestand support, does that sink into the asphalt too? You get to know which parking lots are "safe."

[lgibster]

Ok I did it. I officially signed up for the 68 mile route. My brother and I have determined that as long as I finish I will reach my goal. My intended 50 mile "heat of the day" ride I did on July 4th turned out to be the coolest day we have had all summer Ugh!! Oh well I am riding after work most days and the heat indexes have been in the 100s so I think that will help a ton. I have a hydration and food plan pretty much figured out. I have plans to carry a lot of extra gu packs and have learned that pickle juice is your friend at every other rest stop. I my longest ride as been a 60 mile but I my 45 mile ride the other day was great with no problems. Hoping to meet a few of you while I am there.

[luvmyguys]

I'll be there! Me vs. 100 miles, take 2.

[lgibster]

I'll be there! Me vs. 100 miles, take 2.

No 100 miles this year for me........next year maybe. It is on my bucket list.

[marni]

lgibster

perhaps I will see you on the route. I am going to avoid the madness of parking etc at the start by riding out from my house since I live about 2 miles along cinco ranch road. Still debating whether I will ride in to the finish for lunch since pizza after a ride is not my thing or stop off at the starbucks instead and then head for home.

I have been debating doing 100 miles but since the last two training rides at 50 miles in the heat of the day have left me staggering I decided to play it safe this year. I have ridden several centuries on other rides ( cross country and cooler temps) so don't feel like it makes much difference.

Have a good ride.