Ya know, Betagirl , sometimes you just have to say 'enough is enough' and look forward to another ride and be grateful for the things you learned on this ride. I'm sorry you didn't get to finish but the conditions sounded pretty tough and along with the worry about what was going on with your chain/derailer, I don't think I'd want to break down in the rain and be stuck somewhere either!

In any case, excellent job getting as far as you did! Are you planning to try another?

Thank you for the great report as well; I'm hoping I learn to write 'em like this someday

Tracy