108 windy miles
Today's Ride: Quincy, IL to Springfield, IL: 108 miles, 2,900 feet of climb
The first 30+ miles were rolling hills, little wind, 70 degree weather. We rode with 2 Brits (currently living in France), a German, and an Iranian.
The Iranian gentleman has a wonderful story of coming to the US after completing his military duty, with $200, knowing no one, and with no job prospects. He built an incredible life here and is so grateful for the opportunities he has had and continues to have.
The German gentleman joined us late last week. He is an inspiring bike rider, having ridden across Europe, Asia (Russia, Mongolia, down into China) over 90 days. His bike is specially designed as he has only a right arm. I wish I spoke German, or he spoke better English, because he has done some interesting adventures.
The next 78 miles were quite windy. Tom G said the wind was like "a 7 year old trying to help you with an important project on your house." It just slowed you down.
With the twists and turns of today's ride, we got to experience wind on all sides.
The highlight of the day was a slushy/milkshake machine at one of our stops. You chose your flavor, selected how thick you wanted your drink, then the machine went to work. Although, it took a bit to figure out exactly how it worked.
The milkshakes were excellent. I asked Linda to get a machine for our condo. That is not happening.
At mile 104, I got a flat.
Flats have become a bit of a social affair. Riders stop, tell a joke, story, or share a good line. Since we all have flats, the work gets divided up quickly, without discussion, and the flat get fixed in a timely manner.
3 riders stopped by first. When they found out it was my bike with the flat, they suggested Linda join them for the 4 mile ride to the nearest bar.
Sohrab and Jeff showed up next and stayed claiming "we need a rest from the head wind".
WE GET TO SEE OLIVER AND RACHEL TOMORROW!!!!!!
The first 30+ miles were rolling hills, little wind, 70 degree weather. We rode with 2 Brits (currently living in France), a German, and an Iranian.
The Iranian gentleman has a wonderful story of coming to the US after completing his military duty, with $200, knowing no one, and with no job prospects. He built an incredible life here and is so grateful for the opportunities he has had and continues to have.
The German gentleman joined us late last week. He is an inspiring bike rider, having ridden across Europe, Asia (Russia, Mongolia, down into China) over 90 days. His bike is specially designed as he has only a right arm. I wish I spoke German, or he spoke better English, because he has done some interesting adventures.
The next 78 miles were quite windy. Tom G said the wind was like "a 7 year old trying to help you with an important project on your house." It just slowed you down.
With the twists and turns of today's ride, we got to experience wind on all sides.
The highlight of the day was a slushy/milkshake machine at one of our stops. You chose your flavor, selected how thick you wanted your drink, then the machine went to work. Although, it took a bit to figure out exactly how it worked.
The milkshakes were excellent. I asked Linda to get a machine for our condo. That is not happening.
At mile 104, I got a flat.
Flats have become a bit of a social affair. Riders stop, tell a joke, story, or share a good line. Since we all have flats, the work gets divided up quickly, without discussion, and the flat get fixed in a timely manner.
Sohrab and Jeff showed up next and stayed claiming "we need a rest from the head wind".
WE GET TO SEE OLIVER AND RACHEL TOMORROW!!!!!!
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