Desert times

Today UPS is to deliver my new pedals to OTE and I wanted to help rake fallen leaves on shop grounds. Biting strong wind from the north helped / hindered raking and bagging of leaves from the 2 large pecan trees. I helped and I feel good. A tepid shower @ Washington rec enter cleaned me up. A shower is only $0.50. Pecan leaves have a fragrance, not that any stuck to me.

I bought a used pair of Time pedals back in Asheville. I didn’t check them very carefully, what I noticed was how clean they were and the price. I replaced the bearings in Sun Valley. Several days ago on a ride I twisted my left foot almost 90 degrees to the pedal axle and was still in the pedal. Once free I noticed that I broke on of the retaining bales. Previously I noticed that the bales were well eroded signifying significant use. Buyer was not aware. I was given a Shimano elite pass deeply discounting from retail purchase from their goods. One of the Bike mags said Shimano pedals are what others are judged by. I have bought as much non Shimano stuff that I can when justified to support smaller companies. I used Shimano pedals way back in their infancy. I’m not saying they are the new sliced bread but they were affordable and not Egg Beaters. I also bought new cranks and chain rings. When I replace the cranks (someday) only the Gripshifts will be left over from the original build.

Yesterday rain preceded wet snow, it was just a nasty day, just right for staying inside. I might have sampled a football game in a sports bar if one were open in Hurricane. Utah requires you to buy food w/ your adult beverages.

Been burning the heater almost 7X24. My accomodations are small and comfortable.

Tomorrow I will visit Chris’ barbershop for a neaten up. I rode w/ Chris Sat @ Little Creek. He cuts flattops, pompadours, straight edge razor shaves, and butches. I am counting on just nick the edges. Then another ride @ Barrelroll because the trail tread will have dried out.

Alvin Lee and 10 Years After on XM Deep Tracks.

Friend Bill Victor tells me he is giving up the country life and riding access to FATS for the city. He rode the Pinhoti outside Dalton, GA and spoke highly of its tech challenges.

Mountain Khakis pants are not very durable. Give me a pair of Columbia Roc pants anytime. Need to find another pair.

Ride data: I learned how to post a topo map into m y ride data page. I selected medium size but if you rt click on map then select “open in a new tab or window”. When it opens click on “view” in tool bar then click “zoom” it will blow up. I will post other rides in the future.