Had been hot and hazy last week till yesterday when the temp dropped to low 80s and the wind blew out the smoke. Several days of not riding because of above. One day the van thermometer reported 110 degrees. Heat builds up in van as the day progresses, I run the vent fan and the fridge has lost its battle to stay below 40 degrees. Not buying replacement food till temps dropped.
I did ride S fork loop last week, still a hoot to descend and the climb out is now an accepted fact. Still takes 18 mins on the old haul road. Spent the night at the TH which is at 5500′. Slept with the side door open.
I have ridden several days from out past Phil’s TH where I sleep. Learned that name of trail is for Phil who worked for the FS years ago. Story is he would ride his bike down thru the timber harvest which burned in his namesake trail.
Rides are still in the 2+hour times, straight thru pedaling. Bend’s trails are pedaling friendly.
Web Cyclery hosted an open house in their new location in the Old Stone Church. Visited, drank 2 cups of beer, wrote my name on a raffle ticket, name picked, I picked a shop jersey. I am now Bend branded.
Examined by a PA to connect with a care provider. She said diverticulitis is not responding to antibiotics, I agreed. Next treatment is PT to learn if pain is from deep muscle issue. Appointment is this Thurs thus lengthening my Bend stay. I believe that something other than the divertic is causing my poor health yet all blood work and CT are normal. Not sleeping well or long. I will stay here until health is fixed.
Stopped at a newer bike shop to see what they are up to. I had heard about a beer vending machine, trust your eyes as yes it exists and it is in the shop. Beer costs a nickle that the shop gives to you.
Yesterday I rode from Phils climbing Ben’s then continued on Pine Drops up to top of Phils trail where a helispot is on the summit. From there back to TH is mostly downhill or gently sloping. At the top there is a tricky rock drop which I now am comfortable to roll down. Up high the trail is still 2 way with spots of very short sight lines which keeps my speed down to avoid a head on. Only once this year have I encountered anyone riding up. Lost of carving turns. Down lower the trail uses a slight canyon that goes over several rock gardens. My bike and me just bound over the stuff. yesterday a guy caught up to me just before the rough stuff. I kept the lead gapping him as he was slower on the tough stuff but would catch my wheel on flats. Still have stuff to be in front even as I ride the back on the uphills.
I am still riding the Catalyst pedals and still having lots of fun while still staying on my bike. Man, drop the seat, full weight the pedals, press feet onto pedals, and smile.
only 76 degrees at 11:17 AM in full sun.
Yesterday after my ride I pulled up many knapweed plants. I sunburned my back and top of my head.
Bend has been my take care of things stop for bike, body, and van. I have spent $2560 on the van for front tires, 3 batteries, front brakes, and transmission fluid replacement. Body work is all covered by insurance. Bike has been less expensive. I did spring for a luxury Wolftooth dropper lever which has very light action to activate. Sweet.
Trails here at Phils don’t tear up tires as the tread is mostly pumice dirt.