If I see one more roller I am going to cry. What is a roller? Its a small hill (up and down). We had a couple of hundred of them today. About 6500 feet worth of climbing. 120 miles too.
I did the first 100 in 6.5 hours including my rest time at SAG stops. That's probably a little to fast for me. The last 20 miles really were a struggle; steeper gradients on the rollers. You're at 45 mph on a descent then 15 seconds later you're at <10 mph on a steep gradient. And this happens over and over and over again. About 200 times today. The last 20 miles took me 1.5 hours.
To make matters worse my bike wasn't functioning properly. Although I've taken every precaution to protect my freewheel by changing the chain regularly I guess I've worn out the smallest 12 tooth cog. With the new chain on it skips on that cog. This is a common problem for people who fail to maintain their bike and let the chain wear out and then ruin the freewheel. But I've changed my chain every 1000-1,500 miles. So was very surprised to discover the new chain skips. I had to avoid that gear most of the day. Mike even drove the van back to the hotel to fish my old chain out of the trash there to put it back on. But I told him I would limp through the day. I am having Sandy FedEx another freewheel to Springfield. My freewheel is uncommon because its an ultra six. I could go back to a standard 5 too.
Anyways I got through the day OK with it as is. But this reminds me of an important rule I usually follow; if it ain't broke don't fix it.
On one of my last impromptu rest stops I talked to the local cows and they all started walking towards me.
We didn't get much rain to speak of. I put my fenders on just in case. Tomorrow we're likely to see thunder showers. Shorter day though. Just 97 miles. It was a gorgeous day for a ride and the countryside was beautiful.
My roommate had a really tough day with a muscle problem that forced him into the van early. Its been getting progressively worse and he's working to recover it now.
Mark, great job riding today. It looked like a perfect day to hammer the rollers. Keep up the solid riding and make sure to have fun every day on this Tour de America.
ReplyDeleteHey Bud. Well "hammer" is probably too strong but I did get over all of 'em. Can't wait for rest day in Springfield.
DeleteMark I like all your blogs and pictures.Little concerned about you tallking to cows. Keep up the good work. Jim Brown
ReplyDeleteJim that's what one does when everything else is numb ;)
DeleteWhat did the cows say babe? I know what they said " Stay positive and think about your gorgeous wife wife kissing you and pushing you from behind" They all look so cute as if they are wondering who is that man? Hope you have a great day tomorrow and I miss you tons. love sandy
ReplyDeleteYeah it was really funny as they all just seemed to look and walk in unison. I think the thought I had some food for them.
DeleteIf you were on Missouri 6 from Cameron to Kirksville, that took you right through my mother's hometown: Trenton. My grandparents lived there my whole childhood, and one aunt and uncle are still there. To you, it was just another of a blur of small towns you've ridden through, but it holds a special place in my heart.
ReplyDeleteIf, on the other hand, you went through Chillicothe on US 36... my grandfather was for a while the laundromat king of that part of the state, including not just Trenton, but Chillicothe and several smaller outlying towns as well.
You're doing great! And as long as Sandy can telepath the right messages to other cows along the way, you'll continue to. :-)
Let's see I can't remember the whole route now but we did some miles on 36 several lettered ?country roads and I think we passed within 6 miles of Trenton but didn't go through it. Sandy's and everyone's thoughts and prayers have been a huge support to me. Thanks Carl and everyone for following and posting.
DeleteCarl you just made me laugh! Thanks for that. Sandy
ReplyDeleteHey Boo! I woke up thinking about you and sent a pray your way. I realize how lucky we are to be alive and to have the opportunity to do the things that are important to us while we are healthy. You are doing just that and I am thrilled for you. I am sending tons of love and good wishes your way. Today, think about 1 thing you are grateful for as it pertains to your journey. The chain will be sent out today. love sandy
ReplyDelete