Conditions were better today, but still less than perfect. Rain was not falling from the sky, but the trails were definitely wet, and some of the trails were unrideable.
Brad Keyes is perfecting his own drink mix, Carbo Rocket, and gave me some to try today. It was tasty.
Our group from yesterday had shrunken considerably with the forecasted 50% of rainfall for the day. Lynda decided to change the route today because the soil in the desert turns into clay. We didn’t get to avoid it entirely. The road we took to get to the singletrack was wet, and it was only a matter of minutes until everyone’s bikes were bogged down in mud. After some time scooping handfuls of mud off the tires and drive-train, we hiked for a little while and conditions improved.
When your bike gets this much clay on it, it becomes obese.
I rode a bit easier today than I did yesterday with my average HR being about 25 beats lower, but still got in a great workout. The terrain today was considerably more technical and rocky. I enjoy flowy, fast singletrack, but I also have a love for challenging terrain as well.
The sky was huge today…and the sun came out.
Putzin’ along.
Food break! Nom, nom, nom.
Mr. Kerkove is Mr. Kool.
I stole this video from Jeff. It’s kinda funny. Move aside, boyoyois!
High point, looking down on Arizona.
I had to look over the edge.
I rode up to get a good view of the group hanging out at the end.
Some of us wore our Sunday best. I love this jersey!
Tomorrow is supposed to be a 100 mile day. We’ll see how the trails fair after the sunshine today. Cross your fingers!
Scary looking dude hugging you in the last one!
Scary? Hardly! Dave Nice is one of the most gentle and sweet guys that I know. 🙂 To top it off, he mountains bikes on a fixed gear mountain bike. Pretty badass if you ask me!!
What do you think about caffeine on longer rides?
Everyone at this camp will say “Caffeine? Yes please!” Seriously, caffeine is a great tool when it comes to endurance sports. Studies have shown that with moderation, it enhances performance. I have used coffee(yummm), GoFast, Sobe Adrenaline, Coke (NOT Diet – you need the sugar) and caffeine pills. You can also get Gu gels with caffeine added. That said, you don’t want too much where you are overly jittery and shaking. It’s all about experimentation.
It is also great in endurance racing at the 70% mileage point. Lynda was telling me yesterday that there is a lull at that point in an effort, no matter how long or short, so caffeine is a great boost to push you through it.
Great Photo’s! have you tried the new roctane gels by GU?
Yes, a few times. I can’t tell too much of a difference between those and the regular kind. I like the vanilla and mint chocolate, so I stick to those.
I cant tell you have tried the “Rocket” by the smile on your face. Carbo Rocket not only keeps you rocking but I find it improves my mental state and concentration … with all that mud and your upbeat attitude… must be the Rocket 🙂