Sat I drove back to Chili Pepper to claim my bike after shock repair.
Headed out of town to Bar M trails again. Today is Saturday which should increase the riders. And it did, however, there were never so many that the numbers affected my ride. I started on Back 40 then rode Circle O backwards down to Rocking A, found Long Branch and Deadman’s Ridge. The trails ride well in either direction: What was a step up is now a roll down and vice versus.
The trails are works of art in their layout and build. I was able to ride almost everything as i continued to challenge myself. Wide handle bar and short stem. Track stand. Know that the brakes can hold me. My legs are stronger as I pedal up stuff instead of trying to spin. Look ahead to where I want to be. The suspension allows me to stay better connected to the rock. And a shock that holds pressure. Just enjoyable riding for 16 miles climbing1870′ in 2 1/2 hours.
Headed back into town to Aquatic Center for shower. 8 miles into town.
Camped off Willow Springs rd, same place. I can see and hear the truck traffic of US 191. OK place.
This AM was above frost on the windshield warm. Today I plan on riding some of Mag 7 trails up on Dead Horse plateau. 13 miles up canyon to Gemini bridges TH. I parked right off the highway 1.1 miles above Mag 7 TH. Beth knocked on my van. She and friends rode the shuttle to ride downhill back to Moab. My ride would take me part way on their route but I had to pedal back up. Another great ride. Challenging trails. Rode past Gemini Bridge arch:
Rode newly opened Getaway trail.
21 miles in 2hrs 57 mins climbing 2171′. The last 2 miles were climbing on a gravel resource extraction rd. I was tuckered out.
Mag 7 TH parking lot was plugged. Great to see so many riders out. But I saw just a few riders as we get spread out and on different trails.
Another round trip to town for a shower and groceries then back out to Willow Springs for the night.
Monday is a rest day.
My rides so far have been pretty technical requiring complete body involvement most notably are my shoulders and back. I like these trails. And more miles are being built. Moab is on the move.
Moab has a mix of outdoor recreation from mountain bikes, rock climbing, and river rafting (in season) to the motorized crowd. Many foreigners. City Market is the largest of 2 grocery stores where everybody mingles. Like 5 mtn bike shops.
I plan on staying here until after T-day. Charlie and Teresa from Eagle will be here. Tomas from Sedona might connect. It’s good.