Friday was a rest day and prep for today.
Today buses and truck loaded out @ 6:30 for drive to Dutchman Flats starting point. Forecast called for 70% rain, the bus’ wipers confirmed the forecast. Much needed rain. We started out in a cloud darkened sky w/ light rain falling. I was prepared and geared for wet and chill. Rain wetted the talc dirt. I was following a guy too close. He struggled up a short move. I strayed botching the step up move then toppled and fell down hill head first. I was able to unclip my downhill foot and put my foot down although it seemed as if the ground underneath was moving as I slipped off a wet log. I finally landed on my right glute. The rider behind me pulled my bike off me and I did a somersault to come to my feet. As the day wore on and we dropped lower the sun came out and the talc appeared. Long day using incredible net work of Bend trails. My rec loop was 62.26 miles that took riding time of 7 hrs 47 mins, climbing 6099′. The computer read 5115 cals burned. I’m tired. I did it. I used my baby chain ring quite a lot although my legs were not accustomed to the easy spin and slightly higher cadence. I still walked places saving my energy. Over the course of all my Bend rides I rode up the places I walked but my previous rides except the previous BBFT were shorter and more energy was available for consumption.
The route description stated 62 miles. 6 miles from the finish way above Phils TH and the last check station the woman in front of me conversed w/ 2 riders who said that they were told to ride a piece 2X. I did the math figuring out remaining distance. I was done, I decided if the route sent us back around I was sticking a fork in it and riding back into town. The flagging lead me to the check out right @ the end of ST at like 58 miles. From there the ride was back to the parking lot making the ride 62 miles.
The ride was a ride, no time was kept or finish placement, it was just a big ride. Because of my slower speed I seek out the gap between the faster riders and the slower ones than me. Normally I have a deserted trail ahead and nobody chomping on the pedals to get by. I swapped places w/ 2 women riders, they would pass me on the uphills but I would pass them on the tech sections.
On the bus ride up I was invited to sit next to a woman. Conversation ensued and I learned that she is a traveler having among other travels a 1 year road trip.
Mental power to drive my body for the distance. It’s hard.
Tomorrow’s ride is up towards Santiam pass. The PCT crosses @ the pas. i spent 2 nights there on my ’78 trek.
Shower @ deserted SNAP. Dinner @ bike party. I just didn’t spool up any conversations, I really didn’t try so I headed out for bedtime. Camp @ normal site. Clear star filled night sky. Too warm for heater for sleeping.
Sunday update:
My butt hurts. I whined out of the BBFT and gingerly sat out today’s ride. Even padded driver’s seat is discomforting.
Forecast is calling for rain till Wed which is well needed and will wet down the volcanic dirt.
Mon I have a refrigerator service appointment.
Should be giving some thought to riding Waldo Lake and maybe Oakridge. Last night I talked w/ Melanie from Cog Wild about a McKenzie river shuttle. This issue of MBA featured a 17 page article about the trail plus their catering service. Incredible coverage.
Will prolly go to 10 barrels, drink some beer and watch a football game.