2008 - The Year to Cycle

Day 39: Orangeburg, SC to Charleston, SC – October 22, 2008

2008-10-22T20:49:00.001-07:00

cross Country Group 2008 10 22_2594, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 111 Miles
Ride Time: 7 hours 7 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.6 Mph
Total Climbing: 1,505 feet
Work: 3263 kJ

We made it. We are one happy group. We had a great reception

Bones leaves at the crack of dawn.

It was 40 degrees this morning. Hollywood is dressed for the cold.

Ricky Bobby at the Ravenel Bridge in Charleston.

Team Colorado with Archie.

The B Team.

Our Guides: Steph, Big Wink and Tara. Without them we would have never made it.

39 days ago I started in the Pacific and today I finished in the Atlantic.

This has been a trip of a lifetime. Wow, wow and wow.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 38: Union, SC to Orangeburg, SC – October 21, 2008

2008-10-21T18:32:00.001-07:00

House 2008 10 21_2477, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 127 Miles
Ride Time: 7 hours 24 minutes
Avg. Speed: 17.2 Mph
Total Climbing: 6,813 feet
Work: 4621 kJ

The cold snap in the south continues and this morning we faced another 32 degree start. We were on the road by 7:45 and it must have been two hours before it started to warm up. South Carolina has more forest then I expected so most of the morning ride was surrounded by trees. The roads did not have any sun to warm them up until at least 10 am.

To stay warm I rode hard in the morning and had a large lead on the others. I usually ride with the Colorado team but today I rode by myself. It is much harder without the pace line but I can look around a lot more riding on my own. I did not take a lot of photos since it hard to see the forest through the trees. Even though the landscape is pleasant it does not have anything that grabs your attention that needs photographing. Just a constant stream of trees, fields and houses.

We had to cover 120 miles today so it was a long ride on my own. For the last 30 miles Sparky road with me since he caught me while I stopped at the second lunch stop. He did not ride yesterday since he had food poisoning from dinner the other night in Asheville. It was good to see him able to ride this afternoon. It would be terrible if he was still sick and not able to ride the last day.

Tomorrow is our last day. We have just over 100 miles to go to Charleston. It’s hard to imagine that we just started a little over 5 weeks ago. It seems just like yesterday when we were in the California desert.

Day 37: Asheville, NC to Union, SC – October 20, 2008

2008-10-20T17:25:00.001-07:00

Eastern Continental Divide 2008 10 20_2469, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 113 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 46 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.8 Mph
Total Climbing: 8,173 feet
Work: 3838 kJ

It was another cold day with the temperature close to freezing in the morning. But the people we meet along the way are always warm. Our waitress, Kathy, at the Renaissance Hotel for breakfast was friendly and was impressed with our trip. She had also served us lunch the day before and provided us a wonderful fruit plate. She was in awe of our ability to do such a trip. She said he man wouldn’t even take her on a short motorcycle trip. It is great to talk with such good people. It has been one of the highlights of the trip.

Leaving Asheville we were faced with our last 1000 foot climb at about mile 10. We crossed the Eastern Continental Divide at 2880 feet. After the peak we had a long decent. The temperature and speed made for a very cold decent but we were dressed much warmer than yesterday so did not have to stop to warm up. The scenery was just great. Not as good as yesterday since the leaves had not changed much yet here. But I’m sure after this cold snap they we be changing shortly.

We misunderstood one of the directions on our guide sheet and ended up adding almost 10 miles to our ride. We stopped at a gas station to look at a map to figure out how to get back on track and experienced a customer service issue. A customer was complaining about what he had been charged and the clerk just yelled at him and told him to leave the station. We told Hollywood that she could be his future wife. Hollywood said that she made his ex-wife look good. The Captain then asked Hollywood if he was then thinking of marrying her for the third time. We all got a laugh out of this.

We have a great group of guys on this trip and it has made riding such a pleasure. It is had to imagine that we only have two more days to go.

Day 36: Cherokee, TN to Asheville, NC – October 19, 2008

2008-10-19T18:59:00.001-07:00

Hollywood 2008 10 19_2429, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 69 Miles
Ride Time: 4 hours 49 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.4 Mph
Total Climbing: 5,900 feet
Work: 2840 kJ

Waking up to frost on the ground is not a good sign. This morning it was 32 degrees outside and we would have to climb to 5100 feet to get out of the Smoky Mountains. We set off at 7:45 once it was light enough to see. Waiting for it to warm up was not an option since it wasn’t forecast to warm up any time soon. The high would only be 50 degrees. Also since it was prime viewing time for the fall color change we wanted to finish the narrow roads before too many cars were on them.

I set a fast pace out of Cherokee and soon had dropped the Colorado boys once we started to climbed. I kept the pace up all the way to the top just to stay warm. Once at the top I added a wind breaker to my soaked cloths. Hollywood was next at the top and we rode down together. He did not need to stop since he had all the clothes on and did not have any more to add. By the time we had descended into Maggie Valley we had to find a place to warm up. We found a gas station and ducked in for some hot chocolate. Hollywood was shivering so badly, I had to make it for him since he could not open it. After about 15 minutes we continued on since riding would help to keep us warm. We never saw anyone else in our group until after we arrived at the hotel. Later we learned that they had all stopped at different places in their struggles to stay warm.

The scenery along the ride today was the best. The sun was out in full force and the leaves were changing colors. It was just beautiful to ride and look around. In spite of the cold this was one of the best rides of the trip.

In the afternoon I walked around Asheville’s downtown. It was very cute. It was another great day in our cross country trip.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 35: Townsend, TN to Cherokee, TN – October 18, 2008

2008-10-18T13:16:00.001-07:00

Group 2008 10 18_2414, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 55 Miles
Ride Time: 3 hours 56 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.1 Mph
Total Climbing: 6,100 feet
Work: 2376 kJ

Today we said goodbye to Tennessee as we entered North Carolina. Our ride took us on a beautiful gradual climb winding along the Little River for 13 miles. Next up was another 13 mile climb to the Newfound Gap at 5048 feet. Since today was Saturday we had a ton of cars also driving the Smoky Mountains to check out the changing colors of the trees. As we have found along our trip, 99 percent of the drives are kind but once and awhile a bozo appears.

As we climbed the temperature started to drop. It was only about 50 degrees we left Townsend and about half way up we ran into thick fog with visibility sometimes down to 30 feet. I was climbing up with Hollywood but my feet started to get cold and I could not keep up his pace. I had to stop at the van and put on booties. Hollywood never stopped since we didn’t want to get cold. I was never able to catch back up to him but at least my feet were warm. Captain reported that it was 37 degrees at the top.

The van had pulled up at the top and we all climbed into it to warm up before descending. Because of the fog we were not able to take any photos. Newfound gap is also the border to North Carolina so we not even able to take our usual “Welcome Sign” photo.

After warming up, adding another layer and putting on long finger gloves we started the 10 mile decent to Cherokee. About half way down we finally escaped the fog and were able to take in the fall colors.

We stopped at “Big Boy” for lunch instead of our normal picnic lunch. On this cool fall day we were glad to be inside and warm. Even without the views at the top it was still a great ride. The Little River section was just awesome. Trek Travel sure did a good job picking out the roads in Tennessee.

Day 34: Crossville, TN to Townsend, TN – October 17, 2008

2008-10-17T17:17:00.001-07:00

Lunch 2008 10 17_2391, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 105 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 38 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.9 Mph
Total Climbing: 9,001 feet
Work: 3299 kJ

It was another big day of climbing following a tough one yesterday. I did not feel I had the same power as yesterday. It did not help that it was raining this morning when we started out. We started about 7:15 am behind the others. It was dark because of the cloud cover and we had a lot of turns to get out of town.

We whined our way along the beautiful Tennessee roads taking in the fall colors. The towns were getting closer together and making the riding a little more cautious as cars are more numerous.

We had a scenic lunch next to the Carmichael Creek Bridge and Dam. After lunch we continued to soak in the landscape as we made out way to Townsend which is just out side the Great Smoky Mountain Park. The ride along the river to Townsend was just outstanding.

I’m looking forward to tomorrow as Big Wink, our guide, says it was his favorite ride from last years trip. Tomorrow we ride the Smoky Mountains.

Day 33: Nashville, TN to Crossville, TN – October 16, 2008

2008-10-16T19:04:00.001-07:00

Team Colorado and Ricky Bobby 2008 10 16_2372, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 130 Miles
Ride Time: 7 hours 44 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.8 Mph
Total Climbing: 11,082 feet
Work: 4228 kJ

The weather forecast called for rain today. Unbelievably we were able to stay in front of the storm and never get wet. We had a few drops as we prepared this morning in Nashville but after that not a drop. The sky always looked threatening but never turned dark until the very end and then it did not rain until we were eating dinner.

Because of the over cast sky I was not able to take many photos of the landscape that continues to impress. Tennessee is just a beautiful place and we are catching it just as the trees are starting to change color. The roads also continue to out distance Tennessee from all the other states we have traveled through as they are the smoothest. This makes riding a lot easier since we do not have to deal with the muscle strain on our neck and arms.

Today had the greatest amount of climbing on the trip but we really only had one long climb and all the rest were the constant rolling hills we have been doing for the past week.

The climbing did not prevent Grateful from racing me up a few of them at mile 115. We both felt strong at the end. As the Captain says “Boys will be Boys” .

At dinner we kidded our guide Smiley, who only road half the day, that she should be called Smirk.

It’s great that after a tough day we all had smiles and could joke. Life is great on our cross country trip.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 32: Rest Day - Nashville TN - October 15, 2008

2008-10-15T15:39:00.001-07:00

Ricky Bobby at the Ryman 2008 10 15_2349, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Today was a day to sleep in and relax. We have gone over 2,700 miles and have one week to go. We had a great meal last night at the Capital Grille in the Hermitage Hotel. I slept wonderful last night as the Hermitage Hotel has been the best hotel we have stayed at on the trip. It is a landmark in Nashville.

With Nashville being the capital of Tennessee, I decided to start my tour of Nashville at the Capital building. It is a beautiful building built back in 1850s. Its grandeur represents the greatness of Tennessee of the time. Three of the first 17 presidents came from Tennessee; Jackson, Polk and Johnson and it was one of the main agriculture providers of the time. It was truly a wonderful building to tour.

From there I went to the Farmers market and had lunch. In the afternoon I visited the Ryman Auditorium which once had been home to the Grand Ole Opry and is now used for all types of concerts because of its great acoustics.

Leslie was a wonderful guide for the tour in the Ryman Auditorium.

After that I went and saw the Country Music Hall of Fame. I’m not a country music fan but it was still interesting.

It was a very relaxing day taking in the Nashville sights and I’m ready for our final week. Tomorrow we have our biggest climbing day with 11,000 of climbing to be done. It should be fun.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 31: Erin, TN to Nashville, TN – October 14, 2008

2008-10-14T14:16:00.001-07:00

Ricky Bobby and Team Colorado at Cumberland River 2008 10 14_2316, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 71 Miles
Ride Time: 4 hours 13 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.9 Mph
Total Climbing: 6465 feet
Work: 2353 kJ

Today we rolled into Nashville. It is the largest city we will bike through and our final rest stop before we reach the Atlantic. We started out in Erin just 70 miles from our destination. The morning was cloudy so I didn’t get many photos. The Tennessee country side is extremely pleasant. Small farms, houses and forest dominate the landscape.

We had a lot of rolling hills to climb but they are not bad since it only takes a few cranks to get to the top and one gets to relax on the decent. I continued to ride with Team Colorado as we are getting to be well oiled machine in our pace line riding. Although once and a while they grumble about Ricky Bobby pulling to hard on the hills. I do this just to keep them honest and now they tend to continue to keep pulling instead of turning it over to me when we get to hills.

We had lunch on the banks of the Cumberland River and then rode into Nashville. For a few miles into town we followed a bike path on the river.

The last mile we had to go on the city streets to get to the hotel which was located in the center of downtown. We arrived before 1 pm which gave us plenty of time in the afternoon to explore the home of country music. Tomorrow I plan to see the country music hall of fame.

It is amazing that a 70 mile ride seems like nothing these days. It was another great ride. Life is great in America.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 30: Union City, TN to Erin, TN – October 13, 2008

2008-10-13T18:25:00.001-07:00

at the Tennessee River 2008 10 13_2275, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 100 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 12 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.2 Mph
Total Climbing: 5528 feet
Work: 3331 kJ

Today we enjoyed the beautiful Tennessee country side. We headed out of Union City and biked through rolling hills. We passed well maintained homes and small farms. Unlike Missouri with its large mega farms, Tennessee seemed split between homes and agriculture with lots of woods in-between.

We also came across barns for tobacco that at first seemed to be on fire. We thought they were used to smoke ham but later when we saw one with its door open we noticed that it was filled with tobacco.

We stopped for lunch in Puryear, it looked like it had not changed in 100 years. But unlike the other deserted towns of Missouri or Oklahoma, Puryear seemed well maintained.

We continued on over the Tennessee River and rode along the Tennessee Ridge surrounded by forests that were starting to get their fall colors.

I rode with the Colorado Team since this was our fourth day of century riding and we could utilize the pace line to conserve energy. We are all looking forward to our final rest day in Nashville in two days. The day after Nashville will be one of the longest rides.

It was a great day to ride and take in the scenery. Tennessee is much more beautiful then I expected.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 29: Poplar Bluff, MO to Union City, TN – October 12, 2008

2008-10-12T20:26:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Kentucky 2008 10 12_2227, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 104 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.7 Mph
Total Climbing: 1510 feet
Work: 4057 kJ

We crossed the mighty Mississippi River today and it required some improvising by our Trek Travel guides. The original plan was to take a ferry across but a government dispute has temporary closed it. We ended up loading everyone into the van and doing a 100 mile detour to get back to the other side. Once at the ferry landing in Hickman, Kentucky we continued on our way to the hotel.

The Mississippi River valley is very flat so we only had 1510 feet of climbing today. I did more work today then yesterday which had almost 8000 feet of climbing. The difference being is that today for the last 15 miles I raced to the hotel. (It was NASCAR Sunday) While Gary and I were taking photos of the Welcome to Kentucky sign the others had gone ahead. I pulled Gary to the group which took about 2 miles to catch them. Once I had caught my breath I decided to jump ahead because we were going up a hill. The group then gave chase and it took them almost all the way to the hotel to catch me. Grateful Dave had pulled the group back onto my wheel but he did not have enough to pass. I tried to break away again but Grateful kept on my wheel but I splintered most of his group.

We arrived at the hotel and broke out the beer. Beer is a recovery drink, isn’t? Our guides had called ahead for pizza. It was a great finish to another great day in our cross country adventure. Life is great.

More dogs chased us again.

Cotton fields of Missouri and the machine that makes "mega bales"

Ricky Bobby at the Mississippi River.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 28: West Plains, MO to Poplar Bluff, MO – October 11, 2008

2008-10-11T20:28:00.001-07:00

dog 2008 10 11_2146, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 113 Miles
Ride Time: 8 hours 4 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.0 Mph
Total Climbing: 7996 feet
Work: 3943 kJ

Our main challenge today was dogs. We must have been chased by almost a hundred dogs. It seemed like every house we passed had a dog or more and they would either bark or chase us. Some came close but no one got bit. Most of the dogs are not smart enough to know that you have to run forward of the bike to catch us. Time after time the dogs would run straight at the bike and then when they reached the road they would have to turn. Only about one or two had figured out they had to run at a diagonal if they wanted any chance to catch the bike. Most of the time I would just speed up and leave them behind but some dogs would follow for a long time. I had one dog that raced us for a good quarter mile before giving up.

Team Colorado started out with mechanical problems first thing this morning as Dave’s chain ring had a bent tooth. He had broken the chain yesterday and this was not noticed yesterday since he never used the small ring after that. While he changed bikes, Stephanie started out and I joined her. We rode together all the way to lunch. I expected Team Colorado to catch up but they never did since they also took a 6 mile detour as the made a wrong turn. At the end of the day Hollywood’s directions where in taters so I’m surprised if they would ever find the hotel but lucky for them they found the Sonic where I was enjoying my chocolate shake.

The road continued through the Ozarks so we had a ton of small hills to climb as the road snaked its way along the ridges. We also had to deal with about 6 miles of gravel road which proved very challenging. Lucky no one in the group crashed or got a flat.

By the end of the day we had finished the hills of the Ozarks and entered the flat river valley of the Mississippi River which we will cross tomorrow. I was glad to pull into a Sonic and have a chocolate milk shake. We had just completed 17,000 feet of climbing in the past two days.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 27: Branson, MO to West Plains, MO – October 10, 2008

2008-10-10T19:54:00.001-07:00

Hollywood 2008 10 10_2031, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 103 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 38 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.6 Mph
Total Climbing: 9265 feet
Work: 3904 kJ

Pulled out of Branson and right away we had a 1 mile climb with lots of commuters going to work. It makes one glad that I don’t have to drive. We had some morning fog also to contend with and we would pull off to let cars pass us when required. I’m not sure why Missouri roads do not normally have a shoulder or with all these hills at least a passing lane. Luckily the roads have been smooth unlike Oklahoma. I guess one can not have everything.

Today was Hollywood’s first day to ride after five days off. He is back to his normal joking self. When Big Wink flatted he had the jokes coming right and left. It was good to have him back to help on the pace line.

Dave our guide now has several nick names. His original name was Big Wave, not from his surfing skill but from his hair. We gave him a new name, Big Wink, after the other day when he had Tara pick him up to help with logistics. This was on one of the toughest days of riding due to the Oklahoma wind. She had already told us this before she picked him up since she had to go back to get him; wink, wink. In Branson Big Wink got a haircut so we can now also call him “Little Wave”. Later in the day we able to give him another name; “Half Day”. This was because he only rode half a day while letting Tara ride in the afternoon. We like kidding him and he takes it well. Big Wink also likes to ham it up for the camera and I was able to get him doing different poses.

Most of the time the roads seamed to go along the top of the ridges but every now and then it would drop down to a river or lake and then we would have to climb our way back to the ridge top. Today was one of our biggest climbing days with over 9000 feet of climbing. In the afternoon I dropped the Colorado boys going up one of the long hills and they were never able to catch back up. They got close but Dave broke a chain and had to wait for repairs.

All these hills always provide something to look at which makes the day go by fast. I really enjoyed the scenery. I even stopped and helped a tortoise across the road so a car would not hit him. It was another beautiful ride across America.

I hope you get a chance to check out the other photos from today on Flickr.

Day 26: Rest Day in Branson, MO – October 9, 2008

2008-10-09T16:50:00.001-07:00

Ricky Bobby in Branson 2008 10 09_2006, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Today was our third rest day. I slept in and had a late breakfast. Dan had tuned up the bikes in the morning and in the afternoon I went for a short ride. It turned out to be 30 miles which was further then I planned but I kept my heart rate down and enjoyed the scenery.

I had been trying to ride to the Arkansas border but the directions from Google map turned out to be wrong so I never made it. It appears that one of the roads had been closed since the completion of Interstate 65. I did get to see the Historical town of Hollister, the School of the Ozarks, Table Lake and Table Lake Dam.

The Ozarks are a beautiful place but the town of Branson is so contradictory with all the music shows and tourist traps. It is such a mash up of country and western and Midwest culture that one is overwhelmed when walking down the streets. The “Andy Williams” theater is just yards from the Dick Clark Theater, duck rides, miniature golf, McDonalds, hay rides, etc…

I guess that’s what makes America great is that everything can be mixed together. Riding my bicycle across America is giving me a great view of this wonderful land.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 25: Neosho, MO to Branson, MO – October 8, 2008

2008-10-08T14:38:00.001-07:00

Group 2008 10 08_1954, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 91 Miles
Ride Time: 5 hours 51 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.6 Mph
Total Climbing: 7059 feet
Work: 2909 kJ

After two days of rain and cloudy skies we had just a gorgeous day. Blue skies and almost no wind made the ride through the rolling hills of Missouri just a joy. It did start cool at 40 degrees and it only warmed up to the high 60s but it kept us from over heating as we climbed the never ending rollers. After the flatness of Oklahoma we seemed to stop often to take photos of the scenery. We had been starved for sites and the ride offered lots of panoramic views as we rode along the ridges of Mark Twain National Forest and followed park of the tour of Missouri course.

Pace line Hay Fields

Dave Cape Fair

On the ridge in Missouri.

We said goodbye to Jack today as he had to leave us to go home to help his son in a family matter. Our prayers go out to him and his family. We hope that he can rejoin us later in Nashville. I think riding is a great reliever of stress and calmer of the soul. I know I left all my frustrations behind in Oklahoma as I battled the wind and completed rides that I thought that would never end.

We ended the day in Branson. This has to be the weirdest place. More on Branson in tomorrow’s blog since it is a rest day and we have the day to relax and explore this most unique slice of Americana.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 24: Bartlesville, OK to Neosho, MO – October 7, 2008

2008-10-07T19:55:00.001-07:00

Dave and RIcky Bobby 2008 10 07_1943, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 112 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 23 minutes
Avg. Speed: 17.6 Mph
Total Climbing: 3294 feet
Work: 3245 kJ

We finished up with Oklahoma today after riding across it for almost 6 days. We reached Missouri at mile 90. All day it was cloudy with drizzle off and on but it only really rained on us briefly. Eastern Oklahoma has nice roads so they were not a factor. And the winds were out of the west which provided a nice tail wind most of the day as we headed east to Missouri.

I wish we had more sun so I could take photos because Eastern Oklahoma is a lot more pleasant to ride through then the Panhandle. Our route was very scenic since as we stayed off of the main roads for most of the way.

I rode with Greg and Dave all day since Hollywood was still not able to ride. Nobody had a flat today so we made good time.

We crossed into Missouri and we took our customary “Welcome” photo. As we continued along we found Missouri totally different than Oklahoma.

The trees and hills become much greener. It is as if they drew the border along a climate zone. We road on old Route 60 and we were surrounded by lush green trees. It was a very nice ride into Neosho. We topped off our 112 mile ride with chocolate milk shakes and burgers at Shoney’s. A few hours later we ate dinner. I love this cross country diet.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 23: Ponca City, OK to Bartlesville, OK – October 6, 2008

2008-10-06T20:10:00.001-07:00

Rain prep 2008 10 06_1928, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 75 Miles
Ride Time: 4 hours 52 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.5 Mph
Total Climbing: 3000 feet
Work: 2706 kJ

Our fifth and final day in Oklahoma again looked like weather would do us in. For the past few days we had been watching a storm move across the United States towards us. The prediction was 100% chance of rain and that is what we got. At first when I woke up I thought we may be able to get out in front of the storm but that idea only lasted until 6:30 am when it first started to drizzle. By 7am the clouds had opened up and it was dumping buckets outside. We waited around for awhile but we all new we had to get started. It would not get better for a long time so we headed out at 7:45.

For 45 miles of riding it rained on us. Our group had numerous flats as it was almost impossible to see the road for glass as the rain pelted us. Thanks heaven that the road had a wide shoulder and we did not have to worry about the traffic. Finally as we reached Pawhuska for lunch the rain stopped. Hollywood was a champ and had warm hot chocolate for us. He had been feeling under the weather the past two days and was assisting our guides who were taking great care of us.

After lunch we rode through the most beautiful part of Oklahoma we had seen on Okesa Road. We were lucky that it had stopped raining so we could fully enjoy it. The green rolling hills were dotted with pastures for cattle and small forests with the occasional oil well thrown in. At times the sun would peak out from behind the clouds and warm us.

We reached Bartlesville in no time as the roads were smooth and assisted with a mild tail wind. It looked like the clouds would regroup and rain more but it never did. Later in the afternoon I was able to walk to Starbucks for a coffee. The first Starbucks I had since Durango, Colorado.

Life is good when you can relax in the afternoon with a coffee and read the paper. For those keeping score at home, the final tally is 3-1-1. I had defeated the Oklahoma weather. I guess my original fear of Oklahoma’s wind was overblown.

Tomorrow we ride to Missouri and say goodbye to Oklahoma.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 22: Enid, OK to Ponca City, OK – October 5, 2008

2008-10-05T14:44:00.001-07:00

sunrise 2008 10 05_1906, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 73 Miles
Ride Time: 4 hours 11 minutes
Avg. Speed: 17.5 Mph
Total Climbing: Unknown – could be about 2000 feet
Work: 2171 kJ

Day four of our fight with the Oklahoma wind appeared to be a battle. We awoke to the wind blowing as fiercely as it was at noon yesterday. Normally our mornings had provided us with minimal wind but it was already blowing at 20 mph this morning. Looking at the flag blowing like crazy next to the hotel as the sun was rising did not do much for my confidence. But as we started out the wind was not as much as a factor. After warming up for the first 10 miles at a slow pace the Colorado boys, minus Hollywood, and I decided it would be better to ride at our pace and try to finish early. We formed a three person echelon to combat the cross breeze from the south as we headed east. We only stopped once before lunch to take in a sunflower field. This field was welcome relief form the endless hay, corn and sorghum fields.

The three of us were using the whole lane for our echelon and sometimes the oncoming lane when the road was bad. Since today was Sunday they were not many cars on the road. The road turned bad but then we turned North and the wind propelled us down a gravel road at 25 mph. Dave led the way which gave Gary and me the confidence to follow. I have never gone so fast on a gravel road before.

A turn back to the East put us within 5 miles of lunch. Once I spotted Bones in front of us I picked up the pace to 25 mph since it was NASCAR Sunday and Ricky Bobby was warmed up and ready to go. Dave made a joke which made me hurt from laughter and they dropped me.

Lunch was in the parking lot of a giant gas station.

Once Gary had replaced his battery in his bike computer we were on our way. I think Gary didn’t trust us to tell him when his turn for pulling was up; which we may have done once or twice but never intentionally.

For most of the ride after lunch we had a tailwind as we made our way north to Ponca City. We passed a huge oil refinery just out side of town.

About a mile from the hotel we ran into the first road biker we have seen in Oklahoma. I think he was surprised to see another road cyclist as we were. He rode over to us and we told him all about our trip and he told us about his cycling adventures in Oklahoma.

I think the people in Oklahoma are the friendliest people I have ever met.

I am certainly glad I am seeing America from bicycle. We reached the hotel shortly after 1 pm. This makes the score now 2-1-1 in my favor. I wonder what the wind will do for tomorrow on our final day in Oklahoma.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 21: Woodward, OK to Enid, OK – October 4, 2008

2008-10-04T19:11:00.001-07:00

Lunch spot 2008 10 04_1894, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 115 Miles
Ride Time: 7 hours 25 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.5 Mph
Total Climbing: 3164 feet
Work: 4223 kJ

Today the Oklahoma wind came out full force to prevent us from completing our ride. The wind almost won but we battled back for a tie.

The plan was simple, start early and try to finish as soon as possible. The morning went well. We were out at the crack of dawn preparing and on our way as the sun rose on the horizon.

Our path took us through the first scenic parts of Oklahoma we have seen. We winded though Boiling Springs State Park and rolled along NS 221 for our first pleasant riding in Oklahoma. After passing Waynoka the wind made its present felt with a good 15 mile cross wind. Again the Oklahoma roads were terrible and made the situation worse as we rode across bump after bump.

We reached lunch for a much needed rest. Trek had picked out a wonderful spot in the middle of no where which was just par for the course for Oklahoma. After lunch the wind picked up from the south as we headed east. To combat the cross winds the Colorado boys and I formed an echelon. Even though the wind was brutal, I felt we were making good progress. However, at mile 88 with the wind gusting up to 30 miles an hour, we had a brief touch between Dave, Greg and me. While Dave and Greg maintained their balance, I was not able to and ended up on the ground. We had not been going more than 12 mph so I only had some minor road rash on my right leg and a small cut above my eye where my rear view mirror holder on my sunglasses scrapped my eyebrow.

The bike was fine and we soon back on our way. There would be sections ahead where we would turn straight into the wind but we cut our pace line rotations to half a mile each instead of the normal one mile. We joked about calling the van for a ride but we were never going to let that happen.

We stopped for milk shakes and burgers at Braum. The shake was the largest I had ever seen but they were gone in no time. We had definitely worked up an apatite today. Two hours later we ate dinner like we had not eaten all day. I wonder why?

Yes the wind had spilled my blood but we came back to finish. The score now is 1-1-1. Two days left in Oklahoma.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 20: Guymon, OK to Woodward, OK – October 3, 2008

2008-10-03T19:22:00.001-07:00

Dog on roof 2008 10 03_1872, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 130 Miles
Ride Time: 7 hours 33 minutes
Avg. Speed: 17.2 Mph
Total Climbing: 3797 feet
Work: 4720 kJ

Oklahoma will be one of the hardest states because it goes on for ever. It will take us 5 days to cross and the scenery does not change much. The day started out the same as yesterday; wind and bad roads. The road was the same poor condition with a bump every 10 yards that shock your body to the bone. I decided I was not going to let it bother me and power through it.

The wind was ever present and continued to get stronger as the day progressed. It acted as a small slap on the right check as it blew from the south against our eastward progress. When we turned south east to Woodward with 20 miles to go it became a price boxer, attacking me face on. The wind was not longer small slaps but full body punches that tried to send me back to New Mexico. But no wind today was going to get me down. I got down in a time trial position and started to crank it out. The wind countered with uppercuts but I shifted down and reached a cadence of 85. The wind then sent right and left hooks. I down shifted again and reached my Zen cadence of 90. The wind continued to battle it out with me by sending dust and hurling bugs at me. But by then I had crested the last hill and seen Woodward ahead. 4 miles to go and I was now locked onto my target. Nothing that the wind could throw at me now could stop me.

Since today was a long ride we had two lunches. The first was in front of an old abandon hotel that had dogs on the roof barking at us while we eat. The second was at Fort Supply Lake which was very scenic and was a nice break from our day riding across the Great Plains.

Today I beat the wind. It is now tired at one to one. 3 more days in Oklahoma to go but I’m confident I can beat it.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 19: Clayton, NM to Guymon, OK – October 2, 2008

2008-10-02T20:47:00.001-07:00

Welcome to New Mexico 2008 10 02_1860, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 109 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 01 minutes
Avg. Speed: 18.25 Mph
Total Climbing: 899 feet
Work: 3127 kJ

Today we entered Oklahoma and now are in the Great Plains. The total climbing was only 899 feet for over 100 miles. That is pretty flat. In addition, we lost almost 3000 feet in elevation from Clayton to Guymon.

We will be crossing Oklahoma for 5 days since we entered via the panhandle. Our biggest obstacle now will be the wind. And today we saw the three sides of it; tailwind, side wind and headwind. We left Clayton with almost no wind but within an hour it had become a nice tailwind. We made good time to lunch as we had an 8 person pace line going.

After lunch I did not join the pace line since I’m not totally confident in a pace line since you have to spend so much time watching the wheel in front of you. So I was on my own after lunch with a side wind that got stronger and stronger as the day went. I was also battling the road for the first 40 miles after lunch. Every ten yard the road would have an one inch gap that would just make the bike shake and kill your wrists and butt. I could not get into a rhythm of riding since every 8 seconds you had to deal with the bumps. I was constantly trying to change my position to ease the pounding my behind and arms were taking.

Finally at mile 90 the road became a joy to ride since it had been recently repaved. I could find a comfortable position in get into the Zen of cycling. Unfortunately at mile 100 the road turned into the wind and I came face to face with a head wind. Progress almost came to a stop as I worked hard to do the last few miles. But by then I had found my Zen and I was not going to let any wind stop me.

Today also had the fewest number of photos taken, eleven. Besides the “Welcome to Oklahoma and New Mexico” ones there were very few other photos to take. We took the “Welcome to New Mexico” photo on the way out since we did not get a group photo when we entered. But in a way the vast flat landscape of the plains were peaceful.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 18: Raton, NM to Clayton, NM – October 1, 2008

2008-10-01T21:37:00.001-07:00

Ricky Bobby at top of pass 2008 10 01_1784, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Day 18: Raton, NM to Clayton, NM – October 1, 2008
Miles: 112 Miles (route was only 91 but I did some extra riding)
Ride Time: 7 hours 04 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.5 Mph
Total Climbing: 3805 feet
Work: 3734 kJ

Raton is around 6500 feet in elevation so it was cold in the morning. But the sky was clear so the temperature warmed up fast. We had a great climb out of Raton through Sugarite Canyon State Park. We saw a bunch of dear in the canyon. The last mile of the climb was steep but I was able to race up to the top with no problems. This would be the last major climb until we get to the east coast. We reached just over 8000 feet at the top and the rest of the ride would be down hill.

We were joined today by Hollywood’s brother Jim, who had flown in from Colorado to join just for the day. He just stared riding a few months ago but he tackled the pass like a real trooper. He didn’t even stop at the top but just kept going. At the top we were on Johnson Mesa and surround by cattle pastures. Again as yesterday the cattle would always turn to look at us as we passed them.

I wanted to ride by myself today so once at the top I broke away from the rest. I wanted to see how much more energy it would take compared to riding a pace line. At the end I rode extra so it turned out hard to compare. I did notice that I’m still off my top power from my training rides so I still have room to pick up the pace.

From the mesa we started descending, first through a step decent in another beautiful canyon which opened up to pastures and prairies. I biked through some almost abandon towns, Folsom and Des Moines. At Des Moines I turned left onto Route 64 and headed for lunch.

After a quick bite I was back on my way to Clayton. It was all down hill but it always appeared like I was climbing. The decent was so gradual that you really never saw it. The decent was 1300 feet over 40 miles so it really doesn’t count. For 40 miles the landscape continued to get flatter and flatter as we entered the plains. I was still seeing antelope along the way but they were greatly out numbered by cattle.

Clayton had a huge feed lot outside of town which we rode past. So I think the town has more cows then people.

Once arriving I rode some more. I was going to ride to Texas to take a “Welcome to Texas” photo but I got tired and turned back after going a few miles. Tomorrow we will pass Texas on our way to Oklahoma so I will try to take it then.

It was a great day soaking in the western Americana since tomorrow we will be in the Great Plains.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr

Day 17: Taos, NM to Raton, NM - September 28, 2008

2008-09-30T20:46:00.001-07:00

Trek Travel Group 2008 09 30_1705, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 95 Miles
Ride Time: 5 hours 48 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.5 Mph
Total Climbing: 5146 feet
Work: 3048 kJ

Yesterday we were joined by a new rider who will join us for the rest of the trip. Archie was suppose to start in Santa Barbara but had some business he had to attend to and could not join until now. Archie is also from Colorado and knows 3 of our riders well.

This morning we had five us on the pace line out of Taos. Both Big Wave and I had decided to ride with the three Colorado boys. Archie had gone ahead with the others since he did not feel ready to join the pace line yet. The Kit Carson Road out of Taos was narrow but it did not have much traffic on it. It was a beautiful climb going threw a valley lined with pine trees and the occasion Aspen tree.

We reached the top of the pass, 9101 feet, after 18 miles. We posed for a group photo before starting the decent to Eagles Nest. Eagles Nest was also scenic since it was this huge pasture surrounded by mountains. It also had a large lake in the middle. We then had a small climb to get to Cimarron Canyon which had just an awesome decent to the prairies leading to Raton.

Cimarron Canyon was just as gorgeous as any other landscape we had seen in the past few days. Once in the prairies we saw all types of animals, antelope, bison, cattle and horses. At one point a group of horses raced us until they ran out of field because of a fence. The cattle would always turn their heads and look as we passed by. I guess they don’t see a bunch of bicycles every day.

We had a run of bad luck as three of us had flats. It was funny that we would pass Buzz, Bones and Sparky and then we would have a flat and then they would pass us. Only for us to pass them again once our flats were fixed. By the third time we had run out of time to catch Sparky and he finished first for the day.

We know it is not a race but once and a while we like to compete with each other and have bragging rights at dinner. As Hollywood always says, “Never let the facts get in the way of a good story”.

All in all it was another beautiful day in America.

Today’s photos at Flickr.

All Cross Country Photo sets at Flickr

Day 16: Taos, NM Rest day - September 28, 2008

2008-09-29T14:52:00.001-07:00

peppers 2008 09 29_1673, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Today was our second rest day of our 40 day trip. Taos is a nice little western town with an artist community located here. Around the over 400 year old town square are galleries and artist studios. Our hotel is located on the square and my room and balcony overlooks it. I watched people do Tai-chi this morning while I read the paper and drank my Starbucks coffee.

I was thinking of going for a little ride but Taos is not bike friendly. Most of the roads have no shoulder and the drivers don’t seem to keen to share. Durango and Santa Barbara were much better to ride in.

Weather was nice so I walked around and took some photos. It was relaxing not to have the news on. What is happening to the world? The $700 billion rescue plan for the banks gets rejected. This is great time to ride and not have to think about this mess.

Day 15: Pagosa Springs, CO to Taos, NM - September 28, 2008

2008-09-28T22:40:00.001-07:00

Greg and Gary at the Rio Grand River Gorge - 2008 09 28_1663, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 141 Miles
Ride Time: 8 hours 45 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.5 Mph
Total Climbing: 8743 feet
Work: 4697 kJ

It was the best of times it was the worst of times. Today was the longest ride on our Trek Travel Cross country trip, 140 miles. This was going to be my longest ride ever. Up to this point my longest was 126 miles so this would be about 15 miles longer.

The day started early as we rode out at 6am to go to breakfast. The sun had not even come out so we rode a quarter mile to an old Victorian home set up for breakfast. We then on the road at 6:45 just as it was starting to get light. Sunrise would still be another half an hour away. A cold 38 degrees required long finger gloves and an additional layer.

I was still cold but the Colorado boys passed by after about 2 miles and I jumped onto their train. They always form a pace line and ride fast.

The ride out of Colorado to New Mexico on Highway 84 was beautiful. The valley had ranches with lots of cattle and horses and the mountain sides started to have Aspen trees that had changed to golden yellow. After crossing into New Mexico the Aspen trees become more numerous. I had never thought that New Mexico would be so lush. I always thought it would be like Arizona.

We had lunch in Chama, another great picnic lunch. We took 84 south of Chama and then turned onto East 64 towards Taos. Again the Aspen trees colored the mountain hill sides. At mile 70 we started the long climb over the pass to Taos. We climbed for 9 miles to reach 10,500 feet. As we climbed you could see the dark rain clouds gathering at the top. About a mile from the top Dave almost caught back up to me but Ricky Bobby would have none of that and I put the pedal down and raced to the top.

As we reached the top, the temperature dropped to below 40 and the skies opened up with first hail and then rain. For about 25 miles on my decent the rain continued to fall and chilled me to the bone. The only redeeming factor was that we still had some rolling hills to climb which kept the blood flowing and kept me warm. As I approached lunch number 2 it stopped raining. But you could still see the clouds coming. The Colorado boys soon rolled into lunch and we hooked up to ride into Taos.

Hollywood flatted and we stopped to assist him.

Gary continued on since he was starting to feel weak since he had been sick in Durango. We then raced to catch back up with him. The wind was now picking up but since it was coming from behind we were able to maintain speeds of 25 to 30 mph until we caught back up with Gary.

We crossed the Rio Grande River and then the road turned and the wind become a side breeze that slowed our pace to 10 mph as we had to fight the wind just to stay upright and not be blown over. We fought the wind for 10 miles before we turned right and the wind was at our backs again. We raced into Taos to get to the hotel.

What a day. We had the best landscapes, good riding, good wind at times and then the worst rain and even hail. This longest ride will definitely be remembered.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 14: Durango, CO to Pagosa Springs, CO - September 27, 2008

2008-09-27T16:35:00.001-07:00

Road out of Durango 2008 09 27_1557, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 62 Miles
Ride Time: 4 hours 3 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.4 Mph
Total Climbing: 5402 feet
Work: 2217 kJ

Today was an easy ride from Durango to Pagosa Springs. We had to climb two passes with a total climb of 5402 feet. Since it snows here in Colorado they can not have the roads too steep so the climbing was not bad. Just a constant climb but Highway 9 in Saratoga is much tougher.

The weather called for rain and we were rained on for a couple miles. It did not last long and we dried out in no time as we climbed. Since the sun was blocked by the clouds for most of the way I think we were robbed of the fall colors. The Aspen trees have started to change their color.

We made it to Pagosa Springs by noon and in the afternoon I visited the Hot springs and sat in the 102 degree water. I dipped my feet into the river and felt refreshed.

Tomorrow is our longest ride of the trip, 140 miles. I will try to have a good meal tonight and a good night sleep.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 13: Cortez, CO to Durango, CO - September 26, 2008

2008-09-26T21:30:00.001-07:00

Durango Train 2008 09 26_1550, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 44 Miles
Ride Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.1 Mph
Total Climbing: 3961 feet
Work: 1540 kJ

We are now 1000 miles into the trip. Today’s ride was an active recovery ride. We only had to ride 44 miles from Cortez to Durango. We had to go over a pass shaped like a saddle before a long decent into Durango. Since the ride was short we started relatively late, 8:15 am. It was cool so I put on my vest and arm warmers. The sky looked menacing with dark rain clouds towards the mountains. For awhile it appeared that we may dog the storm and not get wet but once I cleared the first peak it started to rain. This was the first rain on the trip and it was happening on a long decent. I kept my speed in check at 26 mph going down hill since I was riding on the shoulder and had a guardrail next to me.

Luckily the rain stopped after about two miles and I was able to warm up on the next climb. This Colorado pass was different from the other on the trip since we were surrounded by trees. At the top the pines gave way to groups of birch. It was very colorful but since the sun was still behind the clouds it left little light for photography.

At the top I met up with Bones who has stopped for a coffee at diner at the top. He was enjoying his recovery ride and taking in the changing color of the leaves. The decent into Durango was great. Colorado does a good job of keeping the shoulder clean and wide. Unlike in Arizona where it was full of junk and narrow.

We were into Durango by 11:30 and had the afternoon to explore. One of the highlights of Durango is its old steam train to Silverton. I was able to see it pull in the afternoon. Those old trains are an engineering marvel. We also saw the local high school homecoming parade.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 12: Mexican Hat, UT to Cortez, CO - September 25, 2008

2008-09-25T21:53:00.001-07:00

four corners 2008 09 25_1497, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 116 Miles (Route was only 101 but I visited Four Corners)
Ride Time: 7 hours 49 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.8 Mph
Total Climbing: 5958 feet plus approximate 1000
Work: 4387 kJ

We had breakfast down at the Old Bridge Grille, located next to the San Juan River. They didn’t open until 7am so we got off to a late start. Not all the plates were as big as yesterday but Big Wave’s breakfast burrito was huge. Climbing up from the river we headed out towards the towns namesake Mexican Hat Rock. This balancing rock was hard to believe that it doesn’t fall off. If it ever does they will have to call the town Resting Hat.

The road out was similar to Monument Valley but on a smaller scale. They have the same red rocks. The morning light made them pop. It was a real treat for the eyes.

Next up was the town of Bluff with its wall of stone behind it. It is amazing when you ride next to these cliffs that the rocks don’t come crashing down.

We then entered an area of rolling hills that seemed to be spaced out every three miles. At the bottom of each hill was a cattle guard so you had to slow down at the bottom. Not fun when you have to start climbing the next one with out your momentum.

After a brief stop for the Trek Travel picnic lunch it was on to Colorado.

The landscape in Colorado was flat with sparse grass. But you could see the mountains off in the distance. Our route to Cortez was within 5 miles of the Four Corners so I decided to go for it and see where Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado come together. The guides had told me it would be hilly but it was much more hilly then what we had been climbing.

Four Corners was neat but I would not make a special trip just to see it, but if you in the neighborhood it would be worth it. Since it is on an Indian Reservation they charge you $3 to see it.

Then it was on to Cortez. It was a steady incline over the last 30 miles. With 20 miles to go we had another lunch stop. Trek Travel really does a wonderful job taking care of its riders. By this time I was hungry and ate a lot. With the food infusion I was able to knock out the last 20.

Wow, it was another day of amazing landscape. Life is good.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 11: Tuba City, AZ to Mexican Hat, UT - September 24, 2008

2008-09-24T21:01:00.001-07:00

Ricky Bobby Monument Valley 2008 09 24_1399, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 121 Miles (Route was only 117 but I made a wrong turn)
Ride Time: 7 hours 17 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.7 Mph
Total Climbing: 4184 feet
Work: 4206 kJ

We had our first time change in Tuba City so we are now on Mountain Time. Since the day was going to be long, 100 miles plus, I wanted to get an early start. Also we would be riding through Monument Valley which I wanted to stop and take photos.
So by 6:45 I was on the rode. I rode with Stephanie, one of our guides, out of Tuba City to our lunch stop at mile 53.

We had a gradual incline out which I set a mild pace. The landscape was mostly small shrubs and mountain grass. We were passing through the Navajo Nation Reservation and it was hard to see how the people could make a living here. We climbed to about 6,700 feet when we had lunch.

Lunch was near a gas station were a pack of abandon dogs lived and were eyeing our lunch. Tara was so kind by buying a bag of dog food to feed them. Once feed they were content and let us eat in peace.

After lunch it was a short ride into Kayenta where we turned left on Highway 163. The landscape changed complete from the shrubs to rock and boulder outcroppings. Before you knew it we riding into Utah and Monument Valley and taking in the sights of these huge mountains with their shear cliffs. Monument Valley has been used in 100s of movies like Stagecoach and Forrest Gump and it was a thrill to ride through it.

By this time I had pulled ahead of the others in our group and used the time to think about why I ride. I believe my main reason is that riding makes all the worries and stress of life disappear and it puts me in a trance that all I have to do is turn the crank. My mantra is a cadence of 90.

The road out of Monument Valley to Mexican Hat was all down hill for the most part with the final decent having an angle of 10%.

Dinner was at the Swingin’ Steak and as its name implies; the restaurant cooked the steaks on a grill that swung back and forth over an open fire. The T-bone I had was the best and was the perfect end to a beautiful day of riding. Like yesterday, life is good.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 10: Grand Canyon, AZ to Tuba City - September 23, 2008

2008-09-23T06:40:00.000-07:00

Miles: 85 Miles
Ride Time: 5 hours 56 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.3 Mph
Total Climbing: 3845 feet
Work: 2537 kJ

It was a cool 42 degrees this morning when we getting ready to head out. I put on the arm and leg warmers but by the time we ready to head out it had already warmed to 48 degrees. It warmed up fast as the sun rose in the sky. Our route out of the Grand Canyon toward the east rim had lots of pull outs for us to take a look at the Canyon. As I said in the last posting the Canyon is simply amazing and every pull out offered us another perspective on it. As our destination today was Tuba City nobody was in a hurry to leave the canyon.

Once we had visited the last pull out to see the observation tower we started a long descent into the Little Colorado River valley.

Again we stopped at the scenic views to soak in the views and the changing terrain. Just before reaching Cameron I flatted. I pulled a little piece of metal wire out of my tire. Dave had the same thing happen a few days ago. We speculate that these little wires are from torn up steel belted radial tires.

After lunch I got another flat and then again within five miles. By this time I had fallen way behind the group. Fixed up for the third time I made the last 20 miles to Tuba City as fast as I could.

Just before our hotel was a Sonic and I pulled in to enjoy a much deserved chocolate shake. Once finished with the shake I still had .2 miles to the hotel and wouldn’t you know it I got another flat. After inspecting the tire very close I found a very small wire this must have been the cause of the other 2 flats. It was so small that I was lucky to find it. Otherwise I would be having more tomorrow.

We had dinner at a pizza place since there are not many choices in Tuba City. Tomorrow we will ride into Monument Valley. From the Grand Canyon to Monument Valley, life is good.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 9: Grand Canyon Rest Day - September 22, 2008

2008-09-22T09:55:00.001-07:00

Today is a rest day and what better way to spend it then at the Grand Canyon. I tried to wake up for the sunrise but did not make it to the Canyon edge in time. Although the clouds were all purple and orange but in 10 minutes it turned gray as the sun got higher in the sky. I walked then from the Bright Angel Lodge to Yavapai Station along the rim trail. It is amazing how the canyon changes as you look at it from different angles. I took a bunch of photos but they just don’t do it justice. The canyon is so large that you just don’t get the details that seeing it in person gives you.

Trek Travel had their mechanic come out to look at the bikes and make any adjustments. Dan gave my bike a good check up and even replaced my brake and shifter cables.

My Trek Pilot bike is just over 4 years old and has about 14,000 miles on it. Dan also has a wealth of bike knowledge. Trek recommends that you do not screw down the bike valve screw all the way down since it will pull the tube against the edge of the valve stem hole and eventually cause a flat. In fact Trek does not even ship its bikes with it.

In the afternoon I took a nap and for dinner seven of us got together for dinner at El Tovar Hotel built in 1905.

Today’s photos at Flickr.
All Photo sets at Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/rhanke/collections/72157607429548840/

Day 8: Seligman, AZ to Grand Canyon, AZ - September 21, 2008 -

2008-09-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

Miles: 107 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 33 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.3
Total Climbing: 6010 feet
Work: 3592 kJ

I don’t think you could have had a nicer day then today. It started out at breakfast at Lilo’s Westside Café where the plates of food were huge. I could only eat a third of it. Temperature was cool in the morning so I had to wear arm warmers and wind breaker. Heading out on Route 66 we passed through fields yellow wild flowers that made the fields look magical.

Soon we were climbing the first pass of the day which topped out at 5700 feet. This is the highest we have been so far on this trip and I found myself short of breath a little. Next we got on Interstate 40 for 20 miles to Williams. The freeway was not as bad as I feared since the shoulder was extra wide. The climb to Williams went on for 18 miles which we finally topped out at 7200 feet.

Williams had a lot more stores then the other towns on Route 66 with some of them extremely cute. I loved the old pink Falcon in front of one of the old dinners. Outside Williams, a few miles, we eat lunch next to the Kaibab Lake. This was one of the most scenic spots we have had for lunch on our Trek Trip so far.

After lunch we had 60 more miles to go to the Grand Canyon and we were blessed with the strongest tailwinds. I was hitting 40 miles an hour in spots and going up little hills at over 25 mph. I had never gone up hills before at this speed. It was a blast and the guides could not remember a time they had it so good. I almost beat our guide to one of the break areas before he reached it.

We rode next to the rim just before reaching our hotel.

I write more about the canyon tomorrow since we have a rest day here which will allow us to explore it more.

Photos from today will be found on Flickr once I'm able to post them.
All photos from this trip can be found here.

Day 7: Kingman, AZ to Seligman, AZ - September 20, 2008

2008-09-20T05:25:00.000-07:00

Miles: 86 Miles
Ride Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.5
Total Climbing: 3660 feet
Work: 3267 kJ

Weather is always a big part of riding and today the wind showed us that we have been lucky so far. Leaving from Kingman in the morning we did not have any wind but at mile 15 the road made a slight bend over a rise to the right and the wind was at our face. We were going down hill and working hard to go 15 mph. Fortunately after another 5 miles we turned left and started climbing and the wind became a cross wind.

As we continued to climb the wind seemed to get stronger. The terrain was not as scenic as yesterday as we entered the Arizona mesa. A lot of short bushes and plants doted the landscape. In one section it was populated with yellow daisies along both sides of the road but they did not grow in the fields. My guess is that due to the lack of rainfall here they can only grow next to the side of the road because they are dependant on the water run off from the road.

We continued to see the landmarks of historic Route 66 along the way. We saw old gas stations, salons, farms with large Route 66 signs and the famous brontosaurus.

Towards the end of the ride I came across a German who was spending 6 weeks riding a bike among the National parks in the area by him self. His bike was loaded down and was having a hard time with the wind. I wished him good luck as the Colorado gang up. With this wind I wanted to hop on their train otherwise I would be dead tired riding on my own. A pace line can help a lot with the wind.

We got into Seligman shortly after 1pm. With us getting so early I was even able to take a little nap, my first of the trip.
We are staying at the Original Route 66 motel. It is a very traditional roadside motel. I took a walk around the town before dinner to see some of the other old buildings.

We ate dinner at the Road Kill Café which was one of the best meals we have had. Our waitress was great. When asked about the side vegetables she said they were no good. How’s that for honestly. She must be a meat and potatoes gal.

Visit all the photos from today at flickr.

Day 6: Lake Havasu, AZ to Kingman, AZ - September 19, 2008

2008-09-19T22:42:00.001-07:00

Route 66 2008 09 19_0954, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 86 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 3 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.2
Total Climbing: 7200 feet
Work: 3184 kJ

The weather forecast called for 100 degree temperature in Lake Havasu and last night after dinner it was still in the 90s so it would be worth while to get an early start today.
I was down for breakfast by 6 AM and ready to go by 6:45. We climbed out of Lake Havasu towards Interstate 40. It was a mild climb with a cross wind. We turned left onto 40 west and the cross wind became a tail wind that allowed for speeds of 30 on the freeway. We only had to go 9 miles so the tail wind made it go by fast.

Turning towards Oatman we would pick up the beginning of Historic Route 66.

At first the road was in poor shape that made riding tough but after about 10 miles it smoothed out. The scenery along Route 66 went from marsh to drive river bed to high desert. It was really nice to watch the landscape change. Every ridge we climbed seemed to bring a change. I stopped often along the way to take photos of the approaching mountains, Route 66 signs and cactus.

Shortly after 10 am we reached Oatman and the temperature had climbed to the 90s. Oatman was an old mining town which has become a tourist spot because the burros used in the old mines were set free and are now wild but they seem to come into town to be feed by the tourists.

Lunch was set up in town and afterwards I had a chance to check out the town and the wild burros. Make sure you take a look at the photos. The baby burro almost looks like a stuffed animal.

From Oatman we had our first tough climb up to Sitgreaves Pass, Elev. 3550 feet.

Then it was down hill towards Kingman. I joined up with the Colorado Gang and we formed a nice pace line. It helped a lot since we had to do some more gradual climbing into Kingman. For part of the way we parallel to the BNSF tracks and it was neat to watch the locomotives go up the grade.

Our hotel was across the street from a Sonic so we made our daily stop for chocolate shakes.

Overall this was one of the most scenic rides, based on the number of times I stopped to take photos. I would have to say it is hard to capture the vastness of the landscape with my Canon G9 but it is doing great.

Visit all the photos from today at Flickr.

Day 5: Parker, AZ to Lake Havasu,AZ - September 18, 2008

2008-09-18T20:56:00.001-07:00

Road to Parker Dam 2008 09 18_0877, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 42 Miles
Ride Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Avg. Speed: 14.9
Total Climbing: 1500 feet
Work: 1238 kJ

Today’s ride was an active recovery ride. With only 42 miles between Parker and Lake Havasu we could take it easy and rest our muscles. This was great ride to relax and take in the scenery as we left the desert behind and rode next to the Colorado River. It looked like an oasis with all the plants. But the mountain terrain was colorful compared to the desert.

We crossed back into California as we left Parker and headed for the Parker dam. Since the dam has restricted traffic the road was clear of cars for the most part. We stopped to take photos at the dam. It was much smaller than we thought since the lake behind it is large and compared to the Hoover dam which is so large, makes one believe that Parker Dam would be larger.

After the dam we had to climb a little but nothing tough or long. The ride into Lake Havasu was nice. The last 5 miles even had a bike path. We were able to get to the Hotel by 10:30 and later take in a nice lunch. We saw Havasu’s London Bridge which is the main tourist attraction. Again we were expecting something bigger based on how much it is talked about.

Tomorrow we have our first big climbing day. It will be fun to see how these hills compare to my training hills back home.

Visit all the photos from today at flickr

Day 4: 29 Palms, CA to Parker, AZ - September 17, 2008

2008-09-17T22:29:00.001-07:00

Arizona 2008 09 17_0835, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 112 Miles
Ride Time: 6 hours 25 minutes
Avg. Speed: 17.3
Total Climbing: 3045 feet
Work: 3795 kJ

I received a new nick name, Ricky Bobby:. The Colorado boys that I rode with yesterday have decide that since I was so fast like a race car I needed a NASCAR type of name. The name “Ricky Bobby” is based on the Will Farrell movie “Talladega Nights” whose character was called that. I just hope that means I have to run around naked like Will Farrell did.

Today was going to be long and hot since we are still crossing the desert. I tried to get off early today trying to beat the heat but after turning out of the hotel onto Highway 62 we were greeted with a sign “Next Service 100 Miles”. This was not a good omen. Our route would follow Highway 62 for the 110 miles to Parker. The first 25 miles went by fast as there was no wind and almost no cars on the road. I rode in the morning with Matt, Mark and Frank until a hill broke up our pace line we had going.

I then bridged the gap and caught up to Jack who had left even earlier. After the first water stop I ended up alone in front of everyone. For one of the water stops the van had pulled over at the bottom of a hill but I did not want to stop and lose my 30 mph speed I had going. Tara was nice about it and pulled ahead a few miles where my speed had slowed and allowed me to refill there. I knew that the Colorado boys who were riding with the Wave and would catch up to me but I put the hammer down and made it to lunch “about an hour” before them. The desert looked amazing in the morning sun.

Today’s lunch was at mile 52 and looked back over the valley we had just ridden. It was amazing site to see the desert landscape stretch for miles with not a hint of inhabitants and see the road stretch out for miles and miles.

After lunch I rode with the Colorado boys and we got our pace line going but we set a nice pace line. Today we did not have a strong head wind like we did yesterday so we did not have to work as hard.

After pulling into Vidal Junction to take a break in some shade, Matt pulled in also. He had taken a rest and jumped a few miles when the heat had gotten to him. The bike computers were showing 104 degrees on the asphalt. The van was reporting about 95 degrees. The heat was not bad as long as we were moving. But when we would stop for water you would feel it.

The five of us set up a pace line with the Colorado boys and me doing the rotation while Matt sat on the back where he could rest and enjoy the last 20 miles into Parker. But with 5 miles to go Matt raced ahead and shouted at us to pick up the pace. We almost fell off our bikes laughing at the spunk Matt showed. Greg chased him down and after we passed him, Dave went back and helped into Parker. We poised for photos at the “Welcome to Arizona” sign after we crossed the Colorado River.

We stopped for shakes just in front of our hotel and had a great time joking with Matt on his break away.

I thought today was the hardest day just from the standpoint that we were on the bikes for almost 7 hours. I’m not used to doing a pace line for 30 plus miles and was glad to have a rest at Vidal Junction where I could rest my butt. After that rest the last 20 miles were easy.

Visit all the photos from today at flickr

Day 3: Victorville, CA to 29 Palms, CA - September 16, 2008

2008-09-16T21:36:00.001-07:00

Pace line group 2008 09 16_0734, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 91 Miles
Ride Time: 5 hours 33 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.5
Total Climbing: 3129 feet
Work: 3178 kJ

We are now well established in our trip and think we have the routine down. We should start breakfast at 6 am and we should have our bags down in the hotel lobby at 6:30. Then once the bicycles are checked and water bottles filled we are ready to role. Again we started at 7:15 and spent the first 8 miles getting out of Victorville. We seemed to catch a lot of red lights on our way out of town. But we caught a lucky break once we turned on to HW 18 because we did not have to wait more than a minute for some road construction that had the Highway closed to one lane. It looked like some cars had waited 20 minutes or more to get though.

It seems like our luck is coming from Greg, one of the three riders I rode with today. He is always joking that he is lucky and from what I saw today he is. The four of use formed a pace line and we started banging out the miles with each one of us taking turns for a mile each before the next one would take over. I swear every time when it was Greg’s turn he would luck out and get a down hill stretch of rode.

Riding in a pace line with Greg, Dave and Gary sure made the day go fast. But the real advantage came when we faced some 20 to 30 mile head winds. Each time it was my turn to pull it felt like you were running into a wall. I would work hard for 6 minutes and then be drop to the back and rest for 18 minutes until it was you time to pull. When you were in the back you could relax, comb your hair and check out the scenery.

We were passing through the Lucerne Valley of the Mojave Desert. The Joshua trees were still seen but not in the same numbers as we had saw before.

Lunch was served at a little outcrop of boulders and Dave our guide took our photo. When we finished lunch and got back on the road, the remainder of our group still had not arrived. Earlier Jack had a couple of flats which Stephanie had helped him fixed. When we arrived we tried to give advice but I have a good photo of her telling us she knows how to do it.

Coming into Yucca we had an 8% grade decent that Dave flew down. I was holding on for dear life as I slowed my pace as I was not sure of the road. Also the shoulder was full of stones and junk which made it almost impossible to ride on.

We faced a terrible head wind into 29 Palms. And just when we thought we were done the rode threw one more hill at us which just about killed our legs. Lucky for us on the other side was our hotel. We stopped for Shakes one block from our hotel and enjoyed the air condition comfort of the Jack in the box restaurant. The lady next to us started talking politics but she lossed all credibility when she said Palin should stay home and take care of her retarded baby. By this time we had no energy to argue with her. We just wanted to get to our hotel and jump in the pool.

Our hotel 29 Palms Inn turned out to be very funky. I like its western theme. It is nice to have something a little different. My room is called the “Bottle Room” because in the wall between the bedroom and bathroom are old bottles.

Visit all the photos from today at flickr.

Day 2: Valencia, CA to Victorville, CA - September 15, 2008

2008-09-15T19:41:00.001-07:00

Richard and Joshua Tree 2008 09 15_0657, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 92 Miles
Ride Time: 5 hours 52 minutes
Avg. Speed: 15.74
Total Climbing: 4392 feet
Work: 3624 kJ

Day 2 started off early as we tried to beat the heat. Today’s ride would end up in the Southern California high desert. Breakfast was at 6 and we were on the road by 7:15.

Once we got out of Valencia we started our big climb of the day. Bouquet Canyon Road would lead us up to the desert. The canyon was cool as the sun had not yet climbed high enough to heat it. This was perfect climbing weather as we formed a pace line and banged out the hill. Towards the top I decided to if my Northern California legs could put this Southern California hill to bed. Waiting at the top was Stephanie, one of the guides, with refreshments as we needed to refill for the ride to Palmdale.

Palmdale, a new American town, seems to be centered around Palmdale Blvd. which is lined with every fast food chain in America plus LA’s famous doughnut shops. I counted 3 doughnut places within a mile; Tasty Doughnuts, Yum Yum Doughnuts and Good Doughnuts. Once we reached the outskirts of Palmdale we were greeted with tons of Joshua trees.

After a quick lunch at 10:30 I continued on through the desert. The Joshua trees became less and building were few and far between. Every once and a while you would run across a road crossing Palmdale Blvd that seemed to go to nowhere; sometimes they would be paved but most were just gravel.

The last few miles were tough as the temperature climbed close to 100 and the traffic leading into Victorville picked up. It was hard to make good time in these conditions. I stopped at Del Taco for a chocolate shake. Yesterday Greg, Gary and Dave turned me onto them at the end of the ride. It sure was nice to sit inside out of the heat. That fact alone makes them taste wonderful.

Visit all the photos from today at flickr.

Day 1: Santa Barbara to Valencia - September 14, 2008

2008-09-14T17:28:00.001-07:00

Cross Country Group 2008 09 14_0575, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Miles: 76 Miles
Ride Time: 4 hours 36 minutes
Avg. Speed: 16.75
Total Climbing: 3386 feet
Work: 3201 kJ

The first day of the Trek cross country trip. We gathered at the Fess Parker’s Fountain for our group photo and send off. Once we had the bikes checked and loaded we headed over to the Pacific Ocean to dip our rear wheel into the water. In forty days we will dip the front into the Atlantic.

At 8:30 we were off. Our route followed the coast for the first 25 miles before we turned inland at Ventura. We had our first break and water refill there. Back on our bikes we continued through Ventura and after only a few miles of urban sprawl we were into the agriculture fields of California. First it was orange groves, then pumpkins, then peppers, then tomatoes in hot house and then back to oranges and more oranges. California is truly grows a cornucopia of fruits and vegetables. Through the fields we enjoyed a great tail wind and we were off. We made good time and got to lunch just as it started to warm up.

Dave our guide had put together a great spread. After eating too much we were back on the bikes. At first we took it easy as our food finished digesting but with the wind at our back we could not let it go to waste. Soon we had four of us setting a good pace though the orange groves. At times it felt like a maze because the trees surrounded use.

When we got into Valencia we stopped for Chocolate milk shakes. They sure tasted great. But we still had a mile to go to get to the hotel. After being in the air conditioned restaurant it felt like some one had turned on the heat since the temp was getting close to 90. We arrived at the hotel by 2 pm.

Tonight we will have a social hour to get to know each other better. I think we are off to a great start. Could have been a little more sunny this morning in Santa Barbara but we will have a lot of sun in the next few days as we head to Arizona.

Visit all the photos from today at flickr.

Day 0: Santa Barbara - September 13, 2008

2008-09-13T21:47:00.001-07:00

tarantula 2008 09 13_0500, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Yesterday I drove down to Santa Barbara with John. He dropped me off at the hotel and went back to Saratoga.

This morning, I woke up early and went to Starbucks for breakfast. It was overcast and in the low sixties. I walked around a little on the way back to the hotel to check out Santa Barbara. The downtown section is called Old town and has a bunch of unique buildings. One of them, The Ablitt House, had been designed by Jeff Shelton Architect (visit: http://www.jeffsheltonarchitect.com/Buildings_graphics/ablit_destination/index.htm) and is worth checking out.

I wanted to go take a light spin around town to keep my legs in shape. I printed out a few ride suggestions from the Santa Barbara Bicycle Coalition (www.sbbike.org) so I gave them a try. The first route was in the mountains on West and East Mountain Drive. The houses along this route were very impressive. I just had finished climbing to the top of West Mountain Drive when I spotted something moving on the road. It turned out to be a huge tarantula. It was the first time for me to see one in the wild. A lady walking her dog told me that this is the season for them.

The rest of the ride was non eventful but the scenery sure was nice. I reached the coast near the Biltmore Hotel and headed back into town via Channel Drive. I rode a second route from the coalition that took me north of the city and then back along bike trails to the coast. Santa Barbara is really bike friendly with all the trails they have established. Eventually I ended up coming back into town on Clive Drive and Shoreline. It had cleared up by then and the marina was full of boats and people walking along the beach.

At 5 we had our pre trip meeting where we meet everyone and the guides for the trip. There are eight of us for trip so we should get to know one another well.

Tomorrow we start. I have ridden 10,000 miles so far this year so lets bring on the next 3,300. Charleston here we come.

You can visit more photos from today at my Flickr site.

Young Buck Deer in Saratoga

2008-09-11T17:47:00.001-07:00

2008 09 09_8988
Originally uploaded by rhanke

On my second to last training ride I came across a young buck eating grass. Usually they run away once they see people. This one stayed long enough for me to take a couple photos and video of him.

I think I'm ready for my trip. On this ride I set personal bests for power output for 5, 10, 30 and 120 minute time intervals. (362, 329, 304 and 231 watts)
Funny thing is I only remember working hard for about 35 minutes up Kings mountain up to Skyline. The rest of the time I was just going what I thought was my normal pace.

On Friday I'm off to Santa Barbara and start on Sunday. Spending today packing, have to fit everything into one suitcase. It is hard to pack for 40 days, I will have to wear the same cloths over and over.

Car Mailbox

2008-09-10T22:35:00.001-07:00

Car Mailbox 2008 09 03_8507, originally uploaded by rhanke.

It is amazing the amount of personalization that people do for their mail boxes. On my rides I'm always seeing interesting ones. But this car mailbox was one of the best. The fact that it matches his car is just amazing. Also it is only a few blocks from my house.

Lance returns to cycling.

2008-09-09T22:39:00.001-07:00

Levi Leipheimer 2008 02 17_0823, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Lance Armstrong announced today that he is returning to cycling. That is great inspiration for me as I get ready to head out on my cross country trip. Lance will be 37 years old and if he still has then It will be no problem for a 47 year old to bike across the USA.

I wonder what his former teammate Levi thinks of this? The press release did not say what team he will ride for but I would have to think he would team up with Astana since they are managed by Johan Bruyneel who managed Lance before.

Johan has written a great book about his time racing and managing.
http://www.amazon.com/Might-Well-Win-Mastermind-Record-Setting/dp/0618879374

San Jose Earthquakes - Playoffs?

2008-09-09T22:08:00.001-07:00

Joe Cannon 2008 09 06_8952, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I will miss three games by the San Jose Earthquakes while on my cross country trip. Since the end of July when they added Darren Huckerby and Arturo Alvarez they have not lost a game. They have gone from last place to 4th now. Last Saturday they defeated DC United.

The back bone of the team has been their defense and Joe Cannon has done an excellent job as Goal Keeper. They have been playing at Buck Shaw Stadium which gives the fans very close access. At the end of the games the Earthquakes have been doing a great job at thanking the fans for their support. The photo shows Joe Cannon thanking the fans.

I will have to follow the Earthquakes on line to see if they make the playoffs. It would be amazing if they do.

Equipment: 2008 09 02_8519

2008-09-04T16:07:00.001-07:00

Richard and Bike 2008 09 02_8519, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Here is information on what I will use on my trip.

Bike: Trek Pilot 5.2 carbon
Tires: Continental Grand Prix 4-season
food: Cliff bars and Gu Energy Gel
Drink: GU2O sports electrolyte drink
Recovery Drink: Endurox R4

Coach: http://www.tri-umphcoaching.com/bio.shtml

Camera: Canon G9

Pace Line HW 84 2008 09 03_8505

2008-09-03T20:10:00.001-07:00

ACTC Pace Line HW 84 2008 09 03_8505, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Todays ride was with the ACTC Hills R Us club ride. We climbed Old La Honda and continued on to San Gregorio. From there we connected to the coast via Stage Road and returned back on Tunitas Creek.

This photo is the pace line we had going on Highway 84 out to San Gregorio. Jeff lead the way most of the time. I lead for a little way but Jeff took over again. It always good to have a young guy help out.

Then on our way back I almost caught him on Tunitas Creek but when I got within 10 feet of his bike he sprinted away. I can keep dreaming of being 30 again.

Todays ride was 81 miles with 6000 feet of climbing and 3072 kJ in 5:45 hours.

New Brighton State Beach

2008-08-31T21:18:00.001-07:00

New Brighton State Beach 2008 08 21_8029, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Riding in Northern California provides many chances to visit the Pacific Ocean. While it has been hot here in Silicon Valley the coast has been cool. On this ride I rode out to Capitola and headed further south down the coast. There are lot of beaches to stop and take in the view. New Brighton State Beach used to be a Chinese fishing village back in the 1850s to the 1890s. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 ended that. Now it is a state park with camping sites.

I headed further down to the stawberry fields of Watsonville before turning around for the return ride.

Pigeon Lighthouse 2008 08 28_8010

2008-08-29T22:53:00.001-07:00

Pigeon Lighthouse 2008 08 28_8010, originally uploaded by rhanke.

It was another hot day yesterday so I rode out to the ocean again. The last time I visited the Pigeon Lighthouse it was in fog. This time the sky was blue and the riding was great. While it was close to 100 degrees in the valley, out at the ocean it was a cool 70. I had lunch in Pescadero and rode back into the heat up Alpine. I rode 88 miles this day with over 6000 feet of climbing.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse: 2008 08 12_7200

2008-08-21T20:40:00.001-07:00

Pigeon Point Lighthouse 2008 08 12_7200, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Have been riding out to the ocean to get all the miles in. The other day I rode past the Pigeon Point Lighthouse. It is north of Santa Cruz. The coast has been foggy so it was cool. This makes for fun rides since it will be in the 80's here and by the time I get to the coast it will be in the 60's.

Bikes at Saratoga Gap: 2008 08 14

2008-08-20T23:26:00.001-07:00

Bikes at Saratoga Gap 2008 08 14_7196, originally uploaded by rhanke.

One of the amazing things about riding is that you always come across interesting sights that you just never see from a car. The other day once I made my way up Highway 9 from Saratoga, I came accross the parking lot at the top just filled with bicycles. Usally this parking lot is empty on weekdays or filled with motorcycles on weekends. On this day it was filled with a ton of bicycles which were going to be used by Google employees on a group outing. They were going to ride the 30 miles from the Saratoga gap to Santa Cruz.

One could call that cheating since from this point to Santa Cruz it is mostly downhill.

But hatsoff to Google for getting out of the office and riding bikes.

Bob 2008 07 02_5165

2008-08-09T20:44:00.001-07:00

Bob 2008 07 02_5165, originally uploaded by rhanke.

One of the best things about riding is meeting the different people on the rides. I joined a riding club, Almaden Cycle Touring Club, and they hold many rides that members can join. One can learn a lot from the different experiences the members have had.

This photo is of Bob and the other day when it was hot he over did it and had to have his wife pick him up. It was so funny because when she got there the first thing she said was "I'm taking your bike away".

Bob is a strong rider but did not drink enough water and the heat over took him. It is important to always drink alot of fluids. It didn't help Bob's case that in the past few days he also had mechnical problems and needed his wife's assistance.

Capitola 2008 07 29_6756

2008-08-05T20:41:00.001-07:00

Capitola 2008 07 29_6756, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I am now in the last month of training. In August I have to really put in the miles to prepare for the cross country trip. This week I have to ride over 400 miles. I usally ride out to the Pacific Ocean since it provides the best routes to get in long miles. Last week I rode out to Capitola. It is 40 miles from home and providedes over 6000 ft of climbing.

Richard at Continental Divide 2008 07 22_5613

2008-08-05T20:36:00.001-07:00

Richard at Continental Divide 2008 07 22_5613, originally uploaded by rhanke.

On the ride from Old Faithful to Grand Teton we would rode over the Continental Divide three times. Here is a photo of the first crossing. This was my first time to be at this elevation. One could feel the lack of oxygen since little hills would leave one gasping for air.

Jeffrey at Yellowstone 2008 07 20_5682

2008-08-05T20:32:00.001-07:00

Jeffrey at Yellowstone 2008 07 20_5682, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Our Trek Travel vacation in Yellowstone provide us a chance to bicycle 3 times with about 20 miles each time. I was afraid that the biking would be too much for Jeffrey since we only biked a few times before the trip. But Jeffrey did a great job biking there. So I would recommend this trip for any family.

Yellowstone Grizzly Discovery Center

2008-08-05T20:23:00.001-07:00

Bear 2008 07 20_6050, originally uploaded by rhanke.

On our way into Yellowstone we stopped at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. It provided a lot of information on bears and wolfs and seems to be doing a good job caring for bears who no longer wish to eat natural. I think this is better than the alternative of killing them. We never saw a bear in Yellowstone so it appears that people are learning not to feed them. As they say a feed bear is a dead bear.

Grand Tetons

2008-08-01T06:44:00.001-07:00

Richard 2008 07 23_5605, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Our vacation in Yellowstone and Grand Tetons was great. We went on the Trek Travel family trip and we had a blast. From hiking to river rafting and of course biking was all first class. It was a wonderful way to relax with my son.

Two outstanding Guides: Zack and Dave with Jeffrey 2008 07 24_5739

2008-07-30T10:38:00.001-07:00

Zack Dave and Jeffrey 2008 07 24_5739, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Our Trek Travel trip to Yellowstone was just outstanding. Our guides were the best. Jeffrey had a great time hanging with them and they even watched him one morning while I biked from Yellowstone to the Grand Tetons, 56 miles.

I highly recommend Trek Travel.

Elk in Yellowstone: 2008 07 20_5670

2008-07-27T23:05:00.001-07:00

Elk 2008 07 20_5670, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I went to Yellowstone National Park last week. More to come.

Terminator on Stage Road 2008 07 17

2008-07-18T17:37:00.001-07:00

Terminator on Stage Road 2008 07 17_5523, originally uploaded by rhanke.

If one rides out of Pescadero on Stage Road you will come across a sculpture that guards a farm. No one will mess with this house if they see this terminator. He is standing on the back of an old tractor holding a machine gun with a bullet belt loaded. This is one place you want to keep pedaling. Otherwise Stage Road is a beautiful ride with a couple gradual climbs.

San Jose Earthquakes: 2008 07 12

2008-07-13T11:05:00.001-07:00

San Jose Earthquakes 2008 07 12_5347, originally uploaded by rhanke.

We went and saw the Earthquakes play yesterday. It is their first year back so they are trying to build a team. They have had a lack of offense so far. The ended up with a draw with the Colorado Rapids, 1-1. The good thing about soccer is that you know when it is going to finish.

Saturday was a rest day. On Sunday I did 60 miles.

Deer on Zayante 2008 07 11

2008-07-11T20:40:00.001-07:00

Deer on Zayante 2008 07 11_5247 dark, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Today I made another ride out to Big Basin, but this time I rode back via Zayante. I'm always seeing animals on my rides; deer, turkeys, coyotes, snakes, lizards, birds, etc... Today coming around a curve were a mother deer and her fawn. Usually I'm not fast enough to get the camera out but today we looked at each other for a long time.

Today completed a three day stint of long rides; 80, 70 and 95 miles. Each day I did over 7000 ft of climbing and by the last 30 miles of my ride my legs were feeling it.

hills r us 2008 07 09_5232

2008-07-10T19:23:00.001-07:00

hills r us 2008 07 09_5232, originally uploaded by rhanke.

It has been close to 100 degrees here so on the Wednesday ride we rode out to San Gregorio where it was only 74. Very nice.

Good thing about living near the ocean is that it offers one nice rides. The ride on Highway 84 there is very nice. We climbed back on Tunitas Creek. Tunitas is covered in redwood trees so we were cool but the road could do with a repaveing. It was 95 when we reached Skyline.

Bike 2008 07 07

2008-07-08T22:37:00.001-07:00

Bike 2008 07 07_5221, originally uploaded by rhanke.

My coach sent me the Top Five ways to get faster with aerodynamic improvements:

5. Place your water bottle on the down-tube of your bicycle, not on the seat tube.

4. Clean up your cables at the front of your bicycle. A messy cable routing job around the handlebars of your bike can contribute to 20% of the drag of your entire bike!

3. Don't wear gloves. As a general rule, gloves can make you a lot slower. Don't fall though...

2. Wear and train with an aero helmet. Learning to ride with an aero helmet and keeping your head in the same position is one of the most effective ways of becoming more aerodynamic.

1. Most importantly, train in the position that you want to be faster. If it's the time trial, ride your time trial bike in your racing position frequently for proper adaptation.

As one can see I have a long way to improve.
1. My water bottle is on the seat stem as well as a bike pump.
2. Camera bag messes with the cables.
3. I'm wearing gloves.

I guess I now know why it takes so long to get up the hills.

Hills R Us ACTC Ride: 2008 07 02

2008-07-02T19:42:00.001-07:00

Hills R Us 2008 07 02_5147, originally uploaded by rhanke.

One of the many suggestions by my coach was for me to join a bicycle club so I would be able to ride with a group of people. This has really helped me by making the rides enjoyable. It is great to talk with the other members and learn of their biking experiences. It has also helped in learning the area so I now know so many different routes.

I joined the Almaden Cycle Touring Club (ACTC - www.actc.org) and they have rides every day that one can join. They also have a system of hills the have put together called goats that members try to ride. The rider who does the most goats gets a price.

Today on our ride we did Soda Springs (5.6 miles, 2400 feet of climbing) and Montevina (3.5 miles, 1700 ft). Both were very tough.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park: 2008 06 26

2008-07-01T18:52:00.001-07:00

Big Basin 2008 06 26_5146, originally uploaded by rhanke.

This has to be my favorite ride. Starting in the village of Saratoga, one rides up 7 miles on Highway 9 to Skyline (2,600 feet). From there one drops down and connects with 236 to ride into Big Basin. I always like to ride into Bolder Creek and stop for coffee. The other day we stopped for lunch. Riding between the Redwoods and looking up is just amazing.

David Beckham 2008 06 14

2008-07-01T18:41:00.001-07:00

Beckham 2008 06 14_4967, originally uploaded by rhanke.

David has to be one of the greatest soccer players. His passing during the game was spot on. It was great to watch him play against the San Jose Earthquakes.

No Hands Jeffrey: 2008 06 30

2008-07-01T17:52:00.001-07:00

No Hands Jeffrey 2008 06 30_5136, originally uploaded by rhanke.

In 3 weeks I will be taking my son to Yellowstone on a bike trip from Trek Travel. Here he is getting ready as we ride around the block. He likes to ride hands free.

ACTC Roaster Ride to Bid Basin: 2008 06 23

2008-07-01T17:48:00.001-07:00

ACTC Roaster 2008 06 23_5099, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I have been riding with a great club, ACTC (www.actc.org). Here is a group of us at lunch when we rode out to Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

Richard 2008 06 08_4894

2008-07-01T17:44:00.001-07:00

Richard 2008 06 08_4894, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Next day after climbing Mt. Hamilton I did the Tour for Cure. I did 100 miles plus since I rode from home to the start in Palo Alto.

Mt Hamilton top: 2008 06 07

2008-07-01T17:41:00.001-07:00

Mt Hamilton top 2008 06 07_4903, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Preperation for the Cross country trip is in full swing. On June 7, I biked to the top of Mt. Hamilton, twice. I did both the front and back side. In total I did 10,000 feet of climbing. From the top of Mt. Hamilton (4,200 feet), San Jose can be seen in the distance.

100 miles

2008-03-10T18:56:00.001-07:00

2008 03 08_2107, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I did the Solvang Century on Saturday 3/8. This was my first century. Weather was great. Views were good. Lots of cows and vineyards. It took 7 hours to complete (6:30 to 1:30) but only 6 hours and 20 minutes of actual riding time.

Pacific Ocean

2008-03-03T20:28:00.001-08:00

2008 03 01_1869, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I rode out to the Ocean on Saturday. It was a great ride out on Highway 84. Rode back up on Alpine, a hill that never seems to end. 71 miles round trip.

Levi Leipheimer - Prologue

2008-02-20T09:30:00.001-08:00

2008 02 17_0931 5x7 Levi Leipheimer, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Had a great time at the Tour of California Prologue in Palo Alto. I was neat to walk around the set up area and see them prepare. Race was exciting also.

Solar Power and cows

2008-02-05T09:07:00.001-08:00

2008 01 30_0306 5x7, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Only in Silicon valley would one run across cows and a solar power system. Makes sense if you have the space to put it to use. Taken during a ride in Los Altos.

Green Moss

2008-01-29T21:27:00.001-08:00

IMG_0773, originally uploaded by rhanke.

With all the rain we have been getting here, the moss has really started growing and looks very green instead of its usally dirty dead look. This makes for a very visual ride these days.

Rain

2008-01-28T12:55:00.001-08:00

2008 01 27_0228, originally uploaded by rhanke.

It has been raining all week. I had to ride inside yesterday. Hope to se a break tomorrow. Good thing about the rain it sure makes the night photos shine.

Snow On Skyline

2008-01-25T22:31:00.001-08:00

2008 01 22 012208_11041snow, originally uploaded by rhanke.

The other day it snowed up at Skyline. This adds an additional dimension to riding. Sure did look nice.

Fog is cool

2008-01-25T22:27:00.001-08:00

2008 01 15_0134, originally uploaded by rhanke.

I like the fog since it makes everything appear so hidden.

Golden Gate Bridge from Baker Beach

2008-01-15T09:02:00.001-08:00

2008 01 14_0124 fix bw, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Lunch at the Golden Gate Bridge to take in the view. It is one of those amazing structures that make you believe that anything is possible. It was overcast and cold but quite. Not many people about. A good day.

Frankie waiting for a snack

2008-01-11T12:12:00.001-08:00

2007 12 29 021, originally uploaded by rhanke.

Went to Uncle Ken's house to celebrate Jeffrey's birthday. Ken's new dog was a cutie pie. Always good to visit Ken's house, it is always full of people and animals.

New Year Start

2008-01-11T11:44:00.000-08:00

New Year and New Goals - This year I plan to bike across the USA.