I went searching again for a replaced for current CORE. I selected another Suunto model that was delivered to me here in Moab. Anticipation was keen with a sense of discipline as it remained boxed until I settled in at N Klondike xg. I opened the clever packaging and set to learning and setting it up. It’s main purpose is to process performance data via algorithms resulting in knowledge about your body. Plus gps, compass, and more. I go it to working so that I could muddle my way thru setup. I pushed buttons for set up. I completely missed that it was a touch screen for selections. Records sleeping data. I already record data from bike computer and a topo app. And I only know performance when on bike. I read this To stop time, untie yourself from time. Thinking about info from new watch would couple me closer to time. I decided to return it.
A parallel idea was percolating in the conscious mind of buying a shock. Something caught my eye for Cane Creek coil shock. Returning the watch would be almost 50%, and the shock was warehouse sale price. Coil shock is more enjoyable, an enhancement in quality of ride. Today the warming sun was streaming through the windshield warming my sitting seat. I called Cane seeking info. Short answer: I ordered a Kitsuma Coil shock to be delivered at Hurkin maybe next week. Cane is near Asheville, NC. Kitsuma is a local challenging trail that I rode back in ’09. Just 1 memory comes to mind. Shock has 4 adjustment knobs to turn for suspension tuning, shock is not meant to set in the middle and forget like I have down on present shock. Measuring.
Enhancing the ride over came the quest for connecting to time allows me to know a little less.
Second night out at N Klondike XG, elevation 4692 which is 1,000′ lower than Horsethief. This morning at 6;30 it was 15 deg out and 50 inside. I had the pick of every site, I sought the one that got the longest daylight for warmth and solar charging.
It ain’t right that a rancher is permitted to graze to death the desert here and likely many other places. BLM land manager. I dispersed camp here for years and did sometimes many others before the BLM established a developed campground to corral people parking off road. Cows might have been here and maybe more moisture such that I did notice the degradation. My put is human’s caused less damage than the cows are doing. The XG is open to cows. Pay to sleep in a barn yard.
Today I let the sun heat me and the air, the temp hit 55 at ride’s end. I wore an additional upper layer and knickers. Warm up on the flat side of the valley, preparing for climbing effort ahead. I climbed Old Salty to Baby Steps 4×4 rd to Mega Steps descent to Dino and out. Mega Steps has at least 1 climb too much for my engine. Today I was setting up for a climb move but missed a rock staller stopping me abruptly tottering me to the back slope landing on my right hip, pelvis bone, no protective body padding. No feedback when I stood up so I pushed up rest of climb. Bone bruise.
Earlier I spent 2 nights on Willow Springs rd. The first day was cold, not hitting 40, and windy but sunny, made the day rest day. Second day the temp made mid 40s and calm wind. I drove further out on the road to right at left hand turn before the soft sand filled wash. Klonzo trail system sandwiched between state trust land and Arches NP on BLM land. A 4×4 rd splits the tread type. I rode the left side climbing which is almost all hand dug dirt tread. I crossed the road to slick rock and sand patches. You don’t get this kind of riding everywhere.
Wed night in town I attended an appreciation of volunteers and staff of Moab Trails org. I wanted to be in a sea of my peers. I was acquainted with several attendees. Night in town spent in Reid’s driveway. Thurs was wash and provision for several nights out here. Which is where I am now, 9:20 PM, temp is 22 degrees. Chilly living, a second down comforter keeps me toasty.
Stepped into the galley to boil up a cup of tea.
Solar power lacks the punch when the sun is more direct and long enough to completely recharge the AGM batteries. Several days I ran the engine for 30 mins for needed boost. 2 AGM batteries, the larger is underneath the van exposed to outside temp, the smaller is underneath the passenger seat. Cold temp lessens storage power. Major demand comes from the heater.
Weak internet signal means no pics.
Enough, pleasant cup of sleep tea then snuggle under the covers.