Princeton 300k Pre-Ride - The Fixie Challenge

 The fun part of agreeing to undertake this ride was that I wasn't confident I could do it.  I've competed this route no less than four prior times, and, segments of it dozens of times.  This time, I would be attempting it on the fixed-gear.  Not my longest fixed ride, but, in my mind it would be the toughest.  To my amazement three of my four riding companions also agreed to ride fixed.  As the scheduled date approached, and my nervousness increased, the fact that others would be riding with a single cog kept me committed.

I'm not my best at three am.  With all my gear ready, the Jamis Sputnik in the van from the night before, I drive to Princeton Forestall Village, arriving fifteen minutes in advance of the four am start.  The four other riders are there already making final preparations.  I'm riding with Todd, Paul, Roy and Jon.  All but Todd will be on fixed-gear bikes.

The Start

The Village of Kingston at 4:10am

 Exactly at the designated time of four am we take out from the quaint shopping village in the early morning darkness.  The first thirty miles are fairly gentle, a nice smooth warm-up before the difficult miles ahead.  The weather is reasonably pleasant with an air temperature in the low fifties and moderate winds.  The humidity is high causing a misty fog.  We spin quietly on roads that are totally void of traffic at the early hour.  At times chatting with each other, but mostly just taking in the pre-dawn stillness.  An overcast sunrise begins just prior to our arrival at Whitehouse Station.  The designated control is the Bagel Junction in the Whitehouse Mall.  We take the opportunity to partake in a nice breakfast of freshly baked bagels.  While enjoying the respite we discuss the severity of the terrain on the next section.  The four of us riding fixed are figuring there are hills we will be forced to walk.  For at least some portion.   We all agree that Ryan Road in Petersburg will likely be the first to take us out.  Although, there are significant hills to climb before we get there.

Whitehouse Station

Todd (L) and Roy (R) at Bagel Junction, Whitehouse Station

 Reluctantly leaving the comfortable environment of the bagel store we cross US-22 headed towards Oldwick.  We work our way to Rockaway Road, which is a slightly uphill run along the river to the tiny town of Mountainville.   The first lump of the day appears on Guinea Hollow Road which brings us up to Route 512 near Califon.  While not a particularly difficult climb it is followed by a long fast high-cadence descent into the small town.  With little chance to rest the legs we take on two quick kickers which lead to Route 513.  A quick turn-off is made on Sliker Road. This begins a long challenging climb along the side of Point Mountain.  We all manage to stay upright for the entire climb.  A fast twisty descent to the Muscenetcong River follows on Point Mountain Road.  We cross US-31 near Washington climbing again up to Rockport Road where we enjoy a pleasant rolling stretch into Hackettstown.  Each mile brings us closer to the first real steep climb at Ryan Road.

Ryan Road

Roy and Paul walking Ryan Road

 Traversing the western half of the town of Hackettstown on US-46 we climb up to Liberty Township.  We turn-off on Petersburg Road and are quickly met with more steep kickers.  A long gradual descent leads us to the turn onto Ryan Road one-half mile before the climb.  Todd has fallen back.  We all wait for him at the bottom of the climb, delaying the painful experience just a bit longer.  When he arrives we immediately start up the hill.  The road pitches up sharply very early on.  It is all I can do to turn over the pedals until finally I feel stuck.  I don't have the strength to move the pedal to the bottom of the stroke.  Clip out, or fall are my choices.  With little desire to break a hip I take option one (clip out).   With feet firmly on the ground I look around to see my fellow fixie riders walking their bikes up the steepest section of the hill.  Score one for the mountain.  No one with a single cog stayed on for the entire climb up Ryan.  Todd successfully climbed the hill with gears.  Once at the top a fast descent delivers us to Allamuchy.  We pass by sod and chickory farms on gentle terrain.  Interstate 80 is just off to our right.  The traffic there seems out of place in this farm community.   I'm happy when we enter the small town of Johnsonburg and can no longer see or hear the interstate.  We pass through the sleepy town headed for State Highway 94.

 Stillwater Loop

Despite running the biggest gear of the group Jon climbed strong all day

 Once Route 94 is reached signs pointing the direction to Blairstown lead one to believe the control is near.  Unfortunately, a cruel joke is played at this point.  The cue sheet quickly directs riders to the north for a little venture known as the Stillwater Loop.  This is twelve miles of challenging terrain in one of the northern most regions of the state.  A substantial climb on Sunset Lake Road comes at a time which makes it hard to enjoy.  None the less it is climbed successfully by our entire group.  There is a payback for the effort which is in the form of breathtaking scenery.  Millbrook Road has a view which seems to go on forever.  The remaining miles to Blairstown pass uneventfully.  We are soon enjoying a hearty lunch at the Gourmet Gallery in the small downtown area. 

Jenny Jump

Pain and suffering ahead

The departure from Blairstown comes with the knowledge that one of the most notorious climbs on the course is looming in the distance.  Seven miles of somewhat hilly terrain bring us to State Park Road, and the start of a long steep trek up the Jenny Jump mountain.  Roy and I are climbing together.  Jon is a bit ahead.  Both Paul and Todd are a bit behind.  Roy announces the percentage of grade as reported from his Garmin.  We are climbing fine until we exceed 16% of grade.  We are once again relegated to walking.  We watch in awe as Jon continues the climb, without walking.  We only walk a short way until the grade lessens.  We resume riding to the top of the climb.  What follows is a screaming descent down to Route 611.  After which we enjoy mostly moderate terrain to the information control at the Anderson Hotel in Washington.

A grimace on his face as Paul tops Westervelt Road in Washington

Penwell Road

Roy and Jon re-grouping at hill top

From the turn off Route 57 in Washington to the top of Schooley's Mountain involves six miles of climbing on Penwell Road.  The initial section, near the YMCA camp, is quite steep for about one mile.  After which the remainder of the climb is considerably more moderate.  All of the day I was thinking that the steeper section of Penwell would be too much for the fixed-gears.  To my surprise we all made it without dismounting.  When the gradient eased I felt strong and pushed a bit on the remaining miles to the top.  I rather enjoyed the climb and a nice break at the General Store conveniently located at the apex of the mountain. 

 Hacklebarney State Park

After a bit of rest at the store we descend off the mountain into the town of Long Valley.  From there it is a short distance to Califon, where there is an information control followed by the final big climb of the day.   The slow, steady grind up Route 512 actually buoys my spirits as I know that this is the last of the extended climbs.  All riders make the climb upright.  We continue on to Fairmount, near Chester and the control at Hacklebarney.  Once on State Park Road we hit a few smaller hills, but nothing compared to what we've been through.  Basically, the severe terrain is behind us.  Upon arrival at the control we are greeted by Todd's friend Leslie, who has graciously volunteered to provide food and drink for our small group of pre-riders.  We relax and enjoy warm slices of Pizza.  After a nice break we reluctantly resume the ride.  We have a couple of hours of daylight left and forty-five miles to the end.  We plan to make an optional stop at Three Bridges to switch to night riding mode.

Push to the Finish

A few steep kickers hit us on the way out of the park.  After which we manage with a long, bumpy downhill into Pottersville.  This is followed by a run along Black River Road.  We are headed downriver, moderately losing elevation all the way to the crossing of US 22 at Whitehouse.  We pass by the shopping center where we enjoyed bagels many hours ago.  The final thirty-miles from this point follows the identical route as the outbound.  Everything is familiar as we work our way to US 202 at Three Bridges stopping at the Wawa Market.  We keep our stop brief departing with lights and reflective gear functioning.  We still have some daylight left although the sun is quickly sinking.  Like horses to the barn we are covering ground quickly and efficiently.  We reach the tiny town of Neshanic Station as daylight yields to darkness.  I've ridden this section so many times I've no need for a cue-sheet.  Methodically, we work our way through South Branch, Montgomery Township, Franklin and Kingston.  The final one and a half miles on Academy Street feels like a sprint.  Although, night riding has the perception of feeling faster than the reality.  None the less we are soon enough at the finish in the Forrestal Village Parking lot.  We took 17 hours and 22 minutes to cover the hilly route.  All said and done it's a successful day on a fix.

Epilogue

My friend, and fellow Randonneur, Nigel Green posted a writing by Jane Flanders entitled the Hard Way.  http://eprider.blogspot.com/2012/05/friday-writings-for-randos-hard-way.html

I found the short piece thought provoking and relevant.   Why would anyone do anything in a manner that would make the task more difficult?  According to Jane Flanders this is done frequently in error, but just as often by intent.  The point being; sometimes it's the difficulty factor that makes something fun to accomplish.

I confess that my fixed-gear season is somewhat of a fluke.  I never originally set out to do this.  It all began when I took a trip west and brought along the fixie as my only bike.  I wound up spending months away from home in a very hilly region with nothing else to ride but a 46x18.  I made the best of it.  And, of a warm winter, by racking up many miles, and RUSA kilometers, on the single cog.  When I finally returned to the east I had little desire to ride anything but the fixed.  I expect at some point that will change, but for now my intention is to take it as far as a can.  Hopefully, accomplishing a full series on fixed, and, possibly a repeat K-Hound award.   With every one of the 10,000 kilometers ridden.......the hard way.        

Boo-Ya!

 

 

Natchez Trace 400k - Nashville, TN to Cherokee, AL

 After a long stay in Arkansas I finally begin my trip home to New Jersey.  Convenient to my plans is a stop over in Nashville.  By amazing coincidence (not really) I find myself in the Music City the very weekend of the Nashville 400k.  Of special interest to me was the fact that the ride would be held entirely on the Natchez Trace Parkway.  Which, coincidentally, happens to be my favorite cycling roadway of all time.  The ride would begin at the northern terminus of the parkway, in the suburbs of Nashville, and continue for 200 kilometers to Cherokee, Alabama, then return.  I would be using my Jamis Sputnik fixed-gear, the only bike I've ridden so far in 2012.  I've ridden on the famous roadway several times.  The most recent was a 288 kilometer permanent done on the fixed-gear back in February.  I was reasonably confident I would be successful at the 400k distance, although it would be my longest fixie ride ever. 

The highest bridge in Tennessee is on the Natchez Trace Parkway

The 6am start is cool and damp.  The rain which fell most of the night before was evident with wet roadways.  Some twenty riders depart from the YMCA parking lot just a short distance from the entrance to the NT.  Once on the parkway the large group begins to break up into smaller groups.  Some light rain falls during the first ten miles or so, then things begin to dry out.  The temperature is comfortable in the low fifties.    I find myself in the vicinity of Alan, from Memphis and Jeff, the Nashville RBA.  The rhythm of the fixed-gear is different than that of geared bikes so we don't spend a lot of time tightly together.   Mostly, we pass by each other over the rolling terrain.  Which at the northern end is constant.  The geared bikes have the advantage on the downhills and flat sections.  When the uphills present themselves I make up the deficit and pass by.  This process repeats itself numerous times.  Eventually on a series of uphills Alan falls back and never reappears.  Jeff sails by me on a long downgrade and stays out in front until the control.  In the meantime, I catch up to Anthony,  a local rider, who does distance cycling as training for mountaineering.  I listen with great interest as he recounts some of his experiences with mountain climbing around the world.  We ride the remaining miles to the Collinwood control together (mile 90).  There is a good number of riders already there.  I opt for a quick stop.  I leave before any of the others.  I try to get Anthony to leave with me, but he's not quite ready.  I'm sure with the wind being favorable, for the remaining miles to the south, he'll be able to catch me.  I head back to the parkway alone.

I keep my pace steady without working too hard.  There are a few mild grades, but mostly the terrain is flat.  The day is very overcast,  not warm by any means, but for now it is not unpleasant.  Anthony catches me before the Alabama border.  The turnaround point, Cherokee, AL,  is thirty-five miles from the last control.   We're making good time.  It appears we will make the control before nine hours.  As we near the exit we see the first rider on his way back.  Soon thereafter two more riders together pass the other way.  The control is only one-half mile off the NT.  We see another rider depart as we arrive.  We keep our time at the stop short and head out just as a group of four riders is coming in.  Jeff is among the group.  Our departure is right at the nine hour mark.  If all goes dashingly well we hope for a finish by mid-night (18 hours).

Anthony phones home from Cherokee, AL

Back on the parkway we soon see Alan on his way south riding alone.  The wind is now unfavorable, making us cold.  We churn through it as best we can.  Anthony is riding strong taking the lead for a number of miles.  It's all I can do to hang on.  Eventually, that becomes too difficult and he starts to gap me.  I ease up a little to allow the gap to grow letting him  ride his own pace.  I know better than to push myself when there is almost 200k left and it's into the wind all the way.  Settling in to a comfortable rhythm I work my way to the north.  I marvel at how much colder it feels going in this direction.   I begin to look forward to the Collinwood control again.  I want a hot beverage, coffee or hot chocolate.  With ten miles to go before getting there I pass the rider we saw leaving the control.  In another few miles I pass a second rider who pulled off to don a jacket.  I want to put on more layers, but will wait until the stop to do everything at once.  A gradual upgrade for several miles precedes the exit for Collinwood.   The control is less than a mile off the parkway.  The flags on the NT Parkway welcome center are blowing stiffly to the south as I pass by.  I'm happy to be out of it for a few minutes.

Sitting at a table in the store with a cup of coffee I pull out a jacket and reflective vest from my backpack to prepare for the cold.  Darkness will arrive in a couple of hours at which point I expect it to get pretty chilly.  One of the riders I past by earlier arrives saying he is freezing.  A support crew who is waiting for their riders offers him some extra clothing which he gratefully accepts.  Not wanting to waste any more daylight I head back out to the NT.  As soon as I make the turn to the north I feel the cold headwind.  I'm happy to be wearing the additional layers.  There is an optional volunteer manned stop in fifty-three miles at the Gordon House, one of the NT rest stops.  Using the markers on the right side of the roadway I begin counting off the miles.  Daylight slowly begins to give way.  The prediction is for a low temperature below forty.   I'm hoping that it wont be quite that cold by the time I finish.  I cover about half the distance to the Gordon House stop before it is fully dark.  The NT is one of the darkest places I've ever ridden.  There is no artificial light, with the exception of the rest stops.  Occasionally, I hear animals moving about off to the side of the road, but it is too dark to see them.  Thankfully, my lighting system clearly shows me the roadway.  The rolling hills help keep monotony at bay.  There is nothing steep to climb so mostly I'm enjoying the ride.  There is almost no traffic at all.  It is a feeling of total isolation which I have come to appreciate.  An acquired taste of sorts.

I notice a sign for the Gordon House announcing it is two miles further.  As I get closer I see the dim lights of the rest area off in the distance.  There is one car parked there which belongs to the volunteer.  When I arrive he prepares a cup of hot chocolate and offers a variety of food.   The warm beverage really hits the spot.  I munch a couple of cookies for good measure and  head back out.  There are about forty miles left to the finish on the hilliest section of the NT.

I resume the practice of counting the mile markers.  It gives me something to focus on.  Keeping my mind engaged helps me ward off the sleepiness which begins to set in about now.  The rest stop was at mile 408, the end of the NT comes at mile 442, thirty-four of the carved wooden markers remain to be counted.  After about ten miles of rolling terrain a car eases up alongside me.  The passenger rolls down the window and asks if I am okay.  I recognize the car as the support vehicle for one of the riders.  I assure them that I am fine.   I give the situation no further thought as I am way too busy counting mile markers.  At mile 427 my headlight goes dim indicating the rechargeable battery is low.  I pull off at the next bridge to replace it with a fresh one.  The darkness is so total on the NT the task could not have been completed without my helmet lamp.  I'm quickly rolling and my quest of the wooden posts continues.  The largest hills are on the last ten miles.  I feel good surging up them and a little chilled on the way down.  Overall, the effort feels good and the miles quickly pass by.   The post marked 442 is reached with mixed feelings.  The end of the ride is near, but I have no more markers to seek out.  Shortly after the NT comes to an abrupt end at a "T" intersection with McCrory Lane.  The finish of the ride is at a different location than the start.  This requires a final climb to the top of the ridge.  It may be the steepest of the day, although not all that bad.  A private home belonging to one of the volunteers serves as the finish control.  I miss the turn for it and almost descend the other side of the ridge.  Fortunately, before doing this I check my cell phone GPS to learn I had passed by it a half a mile earlier.  I turn around, find my way to the finish, and am greeted by Bill.  A heated and furnished barn, which is more like a bike shop with a variety of machines hanging from the rafters, makes for a fine spot to warm up.  Food and beverages are available.  The support crew is there waiting on their riders.  They comment on my lighting saying I was very visible on the road.  Soon after the two they were supporting arrive.  I learn they are from North Carolina.  We all chat for a bit.  It dawns on me that my car is about two miles away at the YMCA.  Given it is after 2am I decide to call it a day.  It's a cold ride back down the hill.  My starting location at the YMCA is a welcome sight after a long day.

The ride was finished in a time of 20 hours and 8 minutes.  I was genuinely pleased to have completed my first fixed-gear 400k, even if it took a bit more time than I had hoped.    

Epilogue

This was my third official RUSA ride on the Natchez Trace, and my fourth time riding on it.   There is and indescribable draw that the famous roadway has on some riders.  I feel like I need to ride the entire distance.  Every inch from Nashville, TN  to Nathcez, MS.  I am hoping an planning to do this in September.  There is a series of permanent routes that offer RUSA credit for every kilometer ridden.  That would be over 700 of them in one direction.  With the option to double that by reversing the permanents to return to Nashville.  The exact date and ride format is yet to be determined.  Contact me if interested in joining.          

Gilt Edge to LaGrange 208k Permanent - Memphis, Tennessee (Graceland)

 Looking at a second successive weekend of potentially dangerous thunderstorms for Arkansas and Missouri I began searching for a region with reasonable weather and RUSA permanents.  All information pointed to Memphis, two-hundred miles to the southeast, with a dry forecast, and predicted temperatures from 60F to 80F.  A 208k permanent was available.  The route owner, Alan, very kindly accommodated my last minute request for a 7am start on Saturday.

I would leave my motel on my Jamis fixed-gear at 6:30am for the one-mile ride to the start.  I was contentedly topped up with oatmeal, waffles, and coffee from the breakfast buffet.  The Kwik-Stop convenience store served as the start/finish control.  After documenting my start I took to the roads at 7am sharp.  Despite having reviewed the course on Google Maps within the first few miles things starting going wrong.  There was a road closure, which I rode through, after which the street markings became confusing. At about 4 miles I was sure I went off route.  After backtracking 1.5 miles I concluded that I was initially headed correctly.  Three bonus miles were added in the fiasco.  The remainder of the distance to the first control in Gilt Edge was mostly flat, aided by a light tail-wind, and passed without incident.  I arrived at the cafe, which specialized in barbecue ribs.  Given it was shortly after 9am, and I adhere to a vegetarian diet, I limited my purchase to a coffee.  I was quickly underway to the next control in Mason.

The Gilt Edge Cafe in Gilt Edge, TN

 Some light rolling terrain on Tennessee 54 was enjoyed along the way.  This section was easy to navigate being almost entirely on state highways.  I relaxed and worked the moderate rollers which were well suited to my gearing and riding style.  The day had warmed into the seventies.  I was soaking up sunshine in a short sleeve jersey, sans arm warmers.  The wind, which was still beneficial, had picked up some.  The wind profile was my one weather concern.  Blowing from the southwest it was predicted to be 19 mph sustained by afternoon.  In just a few miles my direction of travel would be to the southeast and continue in that direction for about 45 miles.  No doubt this would be a factor.  But, for now everything was quite pleasant.  The small town of Covington at mile 42 marked the change in direction to the south.  Due south for a few miles than veering off to the southeast on highway 59.  My perceived effort increases only marginally.  I adjusted to the new work load and quickly relaxed into a nice rhythm.  From my perspective the town of Mason consisted of one intersection with two gas station convenience stores.  At the Tiger Mart I refilled my water and documented my passage.  With minimal delay I departed for the next control in La Grange.  I couldn't prevent the ZZ Top song of the same name from playing in my head ("HOW HOW HOW")!

Tired of pedaling?  Hire the Hillbilly Limozene!

  Leaving the little town on quiet rural roads which are mostly flat.  The wind hampers my progress, but not significantly so.  The next ten miles is a quiet traffic free setting.  After which the route uses lightly traveled state roads (TN 222, TN 59, TN 76) to the town of Somerville.  There was much difficulty navigating through the town.  I was supposed to take the TN 76, although there was no road leaving the town marked as such.  It took me some time, and another bonus mile, to discover that South Main Street was the road I needed to follow.  I was then instructed to turn onto La Grange Road for almost 15 miles ("HOW HOW HOW").  This was another great road with rolling hills, none gaining more than about 75 feet of elevation, perfect for a fixed gear.  I make good time to the tiny town and find the information control, an historical marker, at the intersection of TN 57.  With the question answered on the brevet card I then follow the TN 57 for 9 miles to the next control in Moscow.  The ZZ Top tune playing in my head was replaced by the Beatles "Back in the USSR."

Not as tasty as advertised

Nyet!  I must be lost again!

 The terrain on the 57 was more lightly rolling.  Heading due west into the southwest wind was not too hampering.  I covered the nine miles efficiently arriving in the town of Moscow ("dont know how lucky you are boy...back in the USSR").  I refill water and document my passage at the small gas station market.  I am on the road in about 10 minutes.  In less than a half mile the TN 57 is left in favor of more rural roads.  There are 31 miles left to cover.  I long ago abandoned any though of a fast time.  I lost a lot of time with navigation problems.  I had expected a tail wind assist over this last section.  The reality was more of a cross wind coming from the west across my left side.  The terrain remained predominantly flat as I approached the city of Memphis.  I was riding through the suburbs on nice roads with pleasant surroundings.  The cue sheet was spot on for this final leg.  It was smooth sailing to the Kwik Stop where I began my day over 10 hours earlier.  After documenting my finish I would ride the one mile back to my hotel.  There was a Panera Bread in the area I planned to visit.

Epilogue:

 Initially, I had thought of riding a second 200k permanent on Sunday starting in Knoxville, TN, ninety miles to the east.  I gave up on the idea in favor of visiting the home and burial place of Elvis Presley, the undisputed King of Rock and Roll.  On Sunday  at 10:00am a shuttle bus drove me and dozens of other tourists through the front gates of Graceland.  For the next hour and a half I toured the large home and massive grounds where the King resided until his death in 1977.  While I was never an Elvis fanatic his music and movies surely had some influence on me during my teen years in the 60's.  I learned a lot more about him and his lifestyle on that tour.  It was well worth the time.

 I ended my visit to Memphis, and Graceland, by standing aboard the Lisa Marie, which was the private plane, a Convair 880, which flew Elvis to his concert dates world wide.  The decor, which dated back to the 70's, would be considered gaudy by today's standards.  I really liked it.

The Elvis Car Museum

Boo-Ya!

Springfield Missouri 300k - A Wet and Wild Pre-Ride

 During my extended stay in Arkansas the town of Springfield, Missouri, one-hundred miles to the north, has been my local region for randonneuring activities.  Since the beginning of the year I'd ridden four permanents, and a 200k brevet, mostly in the company of the small group of local randonneurs.  Ralph, the brevet organizer and owner of numerous permanent routes typically hosts a ride every weekend.  As I regularly joined in on these rides I was welcomed and accepted as one of the group.  As the 300k approached I was given the option to join the pre-ride, one week prior to the scheduled date.  Riding with the small group of riders I'd come to know was appealing to me.

Training

There were three of us at the 6am start.  Ralph and Dan were my riding companions.  It was a cool 47 degrees as we started out in darkness from the York Elementary School in Springfield.  Our first control stop would be in Miller thirty-eight miles to the west.  After just seven miles we hit a railroad crossing with a stopped freight train.  It's a common event in the area.  Long freight trains pull into side outs to allow trains passing in the opposite direction to go by.  This process can block the crossing for as much as 30 to 40 minutes.  Fortunately, this time the wait is less than ten minutes.  Back underway, now in daylight, the sun has an immediate warming effect.  As the terrain changes from flat to very rolling the internal heat starts to build.  The hills feel good on the fixed gear.  Just the day before it was outfitted with an all new powertrain (see epilogue).  After riding some miles on the historic section of Route 66 we transfer to farm roads which lead us to the control.  While taking a short break I notice that Dan is running a set of radial laced boutique wheels with a low spoke count.  I mention to him that a broken spoke on one of the wheels would surely end his day.  I would later regret making the comment.

Ralph riding mustache bars

Dan with dark clouds ahead

 Back on the road we are headed for Jasper, thirty-three miles to the northwest.  The terrain is moderate with a light tailwind.  The skies cloud over as the thunderstorm threat predicated for the afternoon appears more likely.  The temperature remains comfortable.  We continue to make good time without working all that hard.  The area is quite rural with views of farm fields and there is little to no traffic.  We follow roads that are designated with letters "UU", "NN", "K".  They are flat and open to the wind, which for now is in our favor.  As we near the control I point out the dark clouds looming ahead.  Soon we see lightning off in the distance.  In the final mile to the control we begin to feel the first raindrops fall.  I expect that a thunder storm will blow through quickly.

Approaching control

At the point we are ready to depart the rain has picked up a little.  We all take to the roads with our rain jackets on.  Our next destination is Joplin, twenty-nine miles to the south west.  The terrain is moderate most of the way.  The rain steadily increases as does the wind coming from the west.  After about ten miles I begin to feel somewhat chilled, especially my fingers which are unprotected in short gloves.  Lightning and thunder explode around us as we continue without thought of seeking shelter.  Things go from bad to worse when Dan fails to see a pot hole that was filled with water.  The result is an immediate crash to the ground. Unhurt, he quickly gathered himself and resumed riding.  We were now dead into the wind and getting pelted by strong rain.  I was freezing cold and my hands were two blocks of ice.  When I saw we were approaching a convenience store I assumed it was the control.  I pulled in followed by Ralph and Dan.  As it turned out the actual control was more than a mile further up the road.  We were all happy to be here just the same.  Dan had a flat on the rear due to the crash.  After removing the wheel a broken spoke was discovered as well.  After repairing the flat the wheel was too warped to ride.  Dan would have to call for a ride home.  I couldn't help but feel like my earlier comment about his wheels put the jinx on him.  Ralph and I departed continuing to the proper control.  I was wearing every piece of clothing I had, including winter gloves.

Trouble ahead

We breezed through the official control quickly heading back out towards the east.   Thankfully the wind was now at our back. With the rain stopped and no headwind I quickly became too warm.  Ralph also complained about being overdressed.  Neither of us wanted to stop before the control in Pierce City thirty-two miles away.  This being another moderate section we thought we could survive being a little too warm.  We navigated our way on mostly flat farm roads and efficiently covered the distance to the control.  I removed a  layer of clothes, purchased a Snickers bar and was ready to start the last section.  With fifty-five miles remaining it was certain we would not make the finish in daylight. 

Ralph on the Rivendell

 This leg of the route featured continuous rolling terrain.  Nothing particularly big to climb just constant rollers for the next 25 miles to the town of Aurora.  For the first time in awhile I had the right amount of layers on.  The hills on this section are spaced just right for my gearing.  Dan and his wife pass by in the car on their way home.  He pulls alongside to wish us luck.  Before driving off he jokes that he still has an opening on the bike rack.  Two hours ago I might have taken him up on it.  As for now I'm having fun.  The hills continue to just before Aurora.  As we approach the town the skies are foreboding with flashes of lightning around.  It begins raining as we pull in to the convenience store at the junction of the K Hwy.  Although sunset is still over an hour away it appears quite dark.  We switch to night gear and once again I don the rain jacket.  We resume riding in the rain. 

The remaining 37 miles are over mild terrain.  Much to my surprise the rain ends after just a few miles.  The wind begins to die off as well, which is fortunate as we are traveling to the northeast.  With the clearer skies we enjoy additional daylight until almost eight o'clock.  The clouds blocked the full moon so once darkness came it was quite dark.  We made decent time over the flatter farm roads that would lead us to the town of Republic, and, finally the outskirts of Springfield.  The final few miles are on Nicholas Street, which is a slight upgrade to the Elementary School where the ride began.  We pull in at 9:34.  The ride took a total of 15 hours and 34 minutes.  Given the circumstances both Ralph and I were satisfied with that.  Although, more miles were ridden dry than wet the feeling of being soaked and freezing hangs with you for a time.  I would have a four mile ride back to my hotel.  I love commuting on a fixed-gear.

Epilouge:

A first rate downtown bike shop

 I felt it prudent to perform some maintenance on the Jamis Fixed-Gear before the 300k.  I noticed the chain was not seating properly on the chain ring.  Just sort of riding on the top of the teeth instead of sinking in.  On closer inspection it was clear the ring was seriously worn and shark toothed.   Concerned about riding a long distance with the drive train in that condition.  I departed for Springfield ahead of schedule in search of a bike shop with the hardware I needed.  I went to Queen City Cycles in the downtown area.  I'd been there before and knew that they do a good amount of business with fixed-gear bikes.  It was a lucky day for me as they had what I needed in stock and were willing to install everything quickly.  Jeff, one of the mechanics, replaced the entire drive train; front ring, rear cog and chain.  I was pleased an impressed that they had a ring and a cog with the same tooth count, so my gearing would remain the same.  A five mile ride around the city streets with everything spinning smooth and quiet had me feeling confident that my machine was up to the task the next morning.

Smooth

 This being my fifth trip to the city I began to notice things that were missed on prior visits.  I discovered that there is a significant bike culture there.  Near my hotel there is a combination bike shop and coffee bar.  The owner at one time rode PBP.  The city has numerous bike lanes and a police department that maintains a dialog with the local bike clubs.  Combined with the historic Route 66, which passes thorough the town, there is a lot for cyclists to enjoy.  I selected a vintage Best Western Motor Court as my hotel on this venture.  It was on historic 66 and played to the theme.  It was a fun to be temporarily blasted back in time.  I get the appeal of riding the famous roadway from end to end.  Embracing a time when things were a lot less complicated.  Sort of like riding a bike with only one gear.

A motel from another Era

Boo-ya!

        

A Missouri Weekend of Riding - Springfield 200k + Boltons 115k

 From northern Arkansas to the nearest brevet activity is a bit over one-hundred miles.  With a perfect weather forecast for the entire weekend, and a 200k brevet on the schedule, I felt a strong urge to make the trip.  When I got word that a small group would be riding a 115k permanent the day after the brevet I made plans to be there for both events.

Saturday -The Springfield 200k

I'd actually ridden this route as a permanent for my February R-12 ride.  With the exception of a different start/finish, and turn-around control, the majority of the course is the same as Rt 66 & Cooky's Pie, which I rode solo last month. (see February blog report).  On this occasion there were 12 other riders at the start.  About half the group were from a local racing club.  They were training for an attempt at a four hour century.  At the starting signal they were off like a shot.  Knowing better than to go out fast I started out alone at the very back.  After two miles I passed four riders.  Then, I came across Jamie who was dropped by the fast group.  We rode together through the hilly first section to the control in Miller.  Although, I kept my time at the control short Jamie took even less time.  I walked out of the market to see him riding up the road.  I was able to see him up ahead for most of the way to the turnaround control.  With this being a pretty flat section we both faced headwinds.  It was too bad we were riding alone at the same pace.  A few miles out of Golden City I saw the fast group, already on the return.  They were in a tight pack and moving quickly.  I thought I might re-group with Jamie in Golden City for the ride back.  But, a navigation error in the small town caused me to lose about five minutes.  As I approached the market he was already on his way out.  With a tailwind on the return I didn't expect to catch him.  With only 70 gear inches to work with I would not have the same advantage.

Rolling

The day had warmed to about 80 degrees.  I removed my arm and knee warmers and left the control for the ride back.  Unbelievably, I made the same navigation error on the return through Golden City.  Another bonus mile.  I finally found my way out of town on highway 37.  The wind advantage was immediately noticeable.  Even better on the "A" Highway going south.  Looking at the time, I calculated that another sub nine-hour finish was possible today.  With that as motivation I used as much of the wind assist as my gearing would allow.  Certainly, I was making better time than on the way outbound.  A few hills arise just before the control in Miller.  I arrive there as the only rider.  Jamie was already through.

Taking no more time than what it takes to refill a water bottle I am on my way.  The final section features some substantial rollers.  Using the Electronic Cue Sheet (see Epilogue in previous blog post) my navigation through a sequence of Farm Roads goes flawlessly, as does the Historic Route 66 section.  At mile 107, I turn onto Farm Road 156 which is a seven mile stretch of steep rollers.  I remember it as being the most tiring succession of hills on the course.  Once again it meets my expectations, although the tailwind helped some.  The remaining Farm Roads which bring me into the city of Springfield are considerably less daunting.  Soon enough I am back at the Fire Station where the ride began.  Ralph is there to sign me in.  My time is 8:44, another fixed gear personal best.

 Sunday - Bolton's 115k Permanent

A good name for a bike club

 Feeling somewhat beat up from the effort of the previous day I arise early and work through a one-half hour yoga routine in my hotel room.  The stiffness of my leg muscles is greatly reduced after the session.  I ride the 3.5 miles to the start, at a Fast & Friendly convenience store.  Shortly before the scheduled 7:30am start my three riding companions arrive.  Ralph and Dan I've ridden with before.  I meet Tammy for the first time.  All the riders are experienced, but Tammy and I are new to the route.  The group departs on time for the first 19 mile segment to Fair Grove.  There are a few medium sized climbs and a couple of big descents.  It occurred to me that I would be climbing those descents later on the return.  Once at Fair Grove we took a short break at the convenience market, then departed for the next section to Willard.

Ralph works his way through rolling terrain

Control coming up

 The next segment is on the Trans America Bicycle Trail.  Ralph commented how difficult some of the hills are for the loaded touring bikes that frequent these roads.  I was thinking they were not so easy for a fixed gear either.  There were no turns until we reached the highway just a little more than 1/2 mile from the control.  It was basically a 15 mile roller coaster ride to the turn-around point.  The thought of returning via the same route was a bit daunting.

Tammy

Dan

Ralph, Tammy and Dan at Bolton's General Store

 The control was a quaint gas station and general store.  They requested we sign their log book reserved for cyclists.   We took a nice break to rest our legs.  After the rest we somewhat reluctantly resumed riding heading back over the same terrain.  The back side of the hills were somewhat easier than in the other direction.  We arrived back in Fair Grove in good time.  I discuss keeping the control stop quick with the hope to finish the ride in under six hours.  The group was agreeable and we are off on the final leg.  Even the big hills didn't feel too hard after all the prior climbing.  We were able to maintain a steady pace over the final 19 miles to the finish.  We clocked in at 5 hours 55 minutes.  A new course record.

Epilogue:

Traveling to events out of the home area has advantages.  RUSA recently announced the American Explorer Award recognizing members who have completed brevets and permanents, of at least 200 kilometers in length, in 10 or more states.  Thirty-two RUSA members immediately qualified upon announcement of the award.  Yours truly with a total of 16 states.  It was an unexpected bonus to receive this award.  Since it didn't previously exist it wasn't one I was chasing.  Hats off to the volunteers at RUSA for coming up with another imaginative incentive. 

With the season at hand this is the time I settle on my goals for the year.  My primary focus is on the Ultimate Randonneur Award and the Mondial Award.  A single SR series will cinch the first of the two.  To accomplish the latter I will need to accumulate 11,000 total RUSA kilometers by December 31.  My year to date total is 2464. I believe both goals are manageable, however with the unpredictability of life nothing is a sure thing.

Boo-ya!

George Dickel 200k - Nashville, Tennesee - A Fixed Gear Personal Best!

 Once again I find myself passing through the famous Music City.  As luck would have it there happened to be a 200k and 300k brevet scheduled which fit nicely with my travel plans.  I hadn't been on an actual brevet since last November when I rode the Turkey Trot 200k with this same group. All my rides since then where 100k-200k permanents. Twenty-five of them to be exact.

There was a nice turnout with close to 30 riders waiting for the start at the Brentwood YMCA.  Only two riders were there for the 200k, myself included. I had ridden the 3.5 miles from the hotel to the start in the darkness. It was a warm humid morning, almost 60 degrees at 6am.  The forecast called for a high temperature in the 80's with a strong chance of thunder showers for the afternoon and evening.  I was hoping to make good time on my fixed gear and avoid the worst of the wet stuff.  As I listened to the RBA give pre-ride instructions it occurred to me that the 300k riders might not be able to hold out that same hope.

One of numerous moderate grades on the route

We were given the signal to start right at 7am.  Both rides start together and share the same route for the first and last 100k.  The Nashville group likes to go out fast from the start.  Which is contrary to my preference.  I watch the majority of the group quickly gap me as they head out.  There is some moderate climbing, but not much.  I warm into the ride and begin picking up speed.  After about ten miles I start passing riders, some in small groups.  The first control, a grocery in College Grove, is at 20 miles. This comes up quickly. There are about eight riders there including the RBA Jeff Sammons.  Needing nothing I manage a five minute stop and leave the control with Jeff and three other riders.  They are all on the 300k.  We ride together and chat for a few miles. They maintain a relaxed pace which is reasonable for the early stages of a 300k.  I start to lose them off the back on some of the upgrades until finally they are out of sight.  The sun makes a strong appearance with the temperature rapidly heating up.  The wind is a very light cross to tail.  I am managing a nice pace rolling at 18 to 20 mph on the flatter sections.  I don't encounter any other riders to the next control at mile 48 in Bell Buckle, Tennessee.  As I prepare to depart a few pull in.  I leave alone after a total stop of ten minutes.

Plenty of farms around

The largest rolling hills of the day present themselves on this section.  State Road 269 is a five-mile stretch with some rolling hills.  The road surface is smooth with light traffic and the effort feels good to me.  A similar long stretch follows on Bugscuff and Cortner Roads.  After which, I negotiate my way to Cascade Hollow, Tennessee, where the George Dickel Distillery is located,  The Visitor's Center of the whiskey manufacturer is the half-way control of the 200k  It is a quaint storefront where guided tours of the facility start and end.  I arrive in time to see a small group tagging along behind a guide. Despite the temptation to join in, I manage a 10 minute stop and am on the return. 

The Visitors Center of Geroge A. Dickel Distillery

Retracing the route I pass by riders headed outbound on the 300k.  It occurs to me that I have a chance at finishing the brevet in under nine hours.  This has appeal as it would represent my fastest fixed gear result.  To make it happen I just need to keep moving.  I vow to keep the control stops to the bare minimum.  The only part beyond my control is the weather.  If the forecast is accurate thunder showers are likely.  How much that may slow me down remains to be seen.  In the meantime, I'm working the rolling hills section hard.  I come across two outbound riders at the top of the hill.  I assume they are the last ones.  I'm not aware of the location of the single other 200k rider.  I assume he is behind me as I did not see anyone coming back on my way to the turnaround. I expect I will ride solo to the finish.  The control in Bell Buckle is quickly reached.  Needing only a water bottle refill I keep the stop to less than ten minutes.  There is only one control left before the finish.  The skies begin to darken as threatening clouds roll in.  I see a few lightning flashes off in the distance.  Soon thereafter a brief shower douses me.  The temperature remains warm so I leave my rain jacket in the pack.  This section is the most complex to navigate with lots of turns, many unmarked. Thanks to well detailed directions from the organizer, and the Electronic Cue Sheet device that I've been testing (see epilogue) I arrive at the control in College Grove without error.

An unknown rider on the 300k wearing a PBP jersey

In less than ten minutes I am rolling again.  Twenty miles to go with a thunder shower or two along the way. I'm on target for the sub nine hour finish, as long as nothing goes wrong.  The rolling terrain is handled aggressively with me pushing  my 70 inch gear on both sides of the hills. The traffic is heavier as I near the Nashville suburb of Brentwood.  A myriad of turns gives the ECS unit a hardy trial, for which it performed flawlessly.  The final two miles is on a bike path that connects to the parking area of the YMCA.  I fly along the wet paths and pop out at the back of the parking area. I sprint to the front entrance to get my brevet card verified.  This is done quickly by the two ladies working the desk.  My official time is 8 hours and 54 minutes.  A fixed gear personal best, done all on my own.

Epilogue:

The Electronic Cue Sheet by Rick Lentz

I must confess to having a little technological help on my first brevet of the season.  I used the Electronic Cue Sheet designed and built by fellow NJ Randonneur Rick Lentz.  I was asked to test out the unit to help Rick determine its readiness to be marketed to randos everywhere.  I am somewhat technically challenged and have until now limited my electronic accessories to a basic Cat Eye computer.  Following the directions I was capable of downloading a route into the unit and displaying the cues throughout the ride.  It functioned great, and, no doubt saved me some amount of time.  At no point did I have to stop to flip cue sheet pages.  Also, I did not have to continually search down the page for the next cue causing me to slow in the process.  The scrolling feature of the ECS allows one to continually keep the next cue at the top of the screen.  I made no navigational errors on a route that was totally new to me.  That was a big plus.  I'll continue testing the unit on other rides, but so far I'm impressed with it. 

The winter of 2012 has been all fixie.  While I find it takes a bit more of a physical toll on me I've been able to keep the same pace with last years mileage totals. At which point I will finally give this bike a rest is uncertain.  I will likely continue through the early spring rides and evaluate my feelings after that. It is not beyond the realm of possibility to stay fixed for the entire season. 

Boo-ya!

Natchez Trace Tour - 144k Permanent X 2

I can't seem to pass through Nashville, TN without spending a day riding in the area.  My favorite venue is the Natchez Trace Parkway, which is a 442 mile roadway extending to Natchez Mississippi.  The roadway is designated an Historical National Park.  It features a smoothly paved surface, meticulous landscaping, and very minimal vehicle traffic.  There are several RUSA permanents that utilize the famous roadway as the primary route.  I arranged in advance to ride one leg of Michelle Williams' Natchez Trace Tour.  A 114k free route between Pasquo, TN and Collinwood, TN.  The shortest and most desirable passage between the two points is the NT Parkway.  The return from Collinwood, if undertaken by bike, counts as a second permanent, which I opted to begin one-half hour after finishing the first one.  From control to control would be 90 miles each way.  If completed within the time limits, I would earn 288 official RUSA kilometers.

I left the convenience store adjacent to the NT Parkway promptly at 6am.  It was dark and 42 degrees.  The weather forecast called for a high of 67F with showers beginning in the afternoon.  Strong, and potentially dangerous thunderstorms were predicated at night.  It was my hope to be finished before the heavy stuff moved in.  The northern portion of the NT is a bit hilly, but nothing daunting.  I enjoy riding it on my fixed gear using 70" gearing.   Sunrise began just fifteen minutes into the ride, with full daylight by 6:45.  I could feel the morning sun warming me up.  I quickly fell into a nice rhythm on the bike.  The moderate grade hills felt very nice and I was making good time.  With thirty miles behind me I had the sickening feeling of my rear rim hitting the pavement.  I stopped at a bridge and inspected the tire.  It had about 10 pounds of air left in it.  An apparent slow leak.  I used a mini-pump to pressure up to about 85 lbs.  The tire felt firm so I continued to ride.  In ten miles I felt the rim hit again.  This time I would change the tube and look for the offending problem.  After searching extensively for something in the tire I could find nothing but a small hole in the middle of the tread.  I used the US Treasury Department tire boot before putting in a new tube.  Back on the road I was now confident that my problem was over and the rest of the ride would go smoothy.  The next twenty miles were perhaps the most enjoyable of the day.   I felt like one with the bike.  Rolling smoothly like butter on an impeccably clean two lane. Then I felt the rim hit the pavement.

Sunrise on the NT Parkway

 I cussed loudly as I peeled the tire from the rim again.  I was upset that I had not taken an extra tire with me.  I had decided to leave it in the car as the roadway was so clean that flats were unlikely.  The hole in the tire, which I had booted, was apparently not the root of the problem.  I could not discover what was causing the pin hole sized puncture in the tube.  I combed over every millimeter of the tire, finding nothing.  I put in a new tube and pressured with a quick fill to 120 lbs.  The tire felt rock hard as I got back underway.  With forty miles to Collinwood and one spare tube remaining I believed I would be able to finish the first permanent. However, I was having serious doubts about the return permanent.  The little town hosting the control does not have a bike shop.  If another flat occurred my plan would be to get a taxi from Collinwood to the nearest bike shop to purchase a new tire. If time allowed I would take the cab back to start ride number two.  Although, I was not sure the little town would even have a taxi.

Many miles of smooth road lay ahead

 As luck would have it the remaining miles to the Collinwood exit went without a hitch.  Less than half a mile from the parkway I pulled into the gas station convenience store that served as the control.  I pushed my thumb into the rear tire that still felt rock hard.  I allowed myself to hope that my day would be getting better.
I checked into the control at 1:30pm.  Permanent number one was done in 7 hours 30 minutes.  I could start Permanent number 2 at 2:00pm, which allowed time for lunch.

Collinwood, Tennessee

Official Park like building in Collinwood, TN

 Heading back out to the NT I noticed the cloud cover rolling in as predicted.  It was plenty warm, in the upper sixties, so a passing rain shower or two would not be that bad.  Although, I was still hoping to stay ahead of the more severe weather.  The wind direction from the south would help me meet this goal.  Providing, I could keep air in the tires.  As the miles ticked off I became more confident that I would make it through without further problem.  It is quite isolating out there on the lonely roadway.  I rather enjoyed the feeling and the quietness of the place.  There would not be a stop sign or traffic light until the finish.  Darkness fell shortly after 5:30.  I had about 40 miles remaining to the finish.  The NT is even more isolating at night.  Other than a few dim lights at the comfort stations every 10 miles or so there is no artificial light.  My bike lighting was the only source.  Occasionally deer would jump out of the blackness into my headlight beam.  It was a little startling for both the animals and me.  Otherwise, the air temperature remained comfortable, no rain fell and my tires were holding air.  Life was good.  I really was enjoying the pleasant night.

I opted not to visit the Mud Hole

 The NT features sign posts on the northbound side designating each of its miles.  My exit would be just past the 442 marker which is the last one.  I looked forward to each mile as I neared the end.  The terrain is the hilliest near the norther terminus.  I climbed a gradual upgrade aggressively and was rewarded with the appearance of mile marker 438.  I then felt my rear rim hit the roadway.  After many miles my problem tire finally lost its pressure.  I calmly but quickly worked to re-pressure with the mini-pump to 80 psi.  I only needed it to hold for four more miles.  It did.  Going flat again on arrival at the finish, which was no longer a concern.  That tire would never roll another mile.  I intend to dissect it, if necessary, to find the small invader that cost me much time and trouble.  However, that could wait for another day.  This day I rode 180 miles on fixed.  Permanent number two was finished in 6 hours 40 minutes. 

Epilouge:

I have a strong urge to ride the Natchez Trace Parkway from end to end on fixed gear.  Permanent route owner, Michelle Williams has a network of  RUSA approved rides that allow one to ride every inch of the famous road, and receive credit for it.  Four permanents strung together traverse the whole thing in one direction. The routes can be reversed for a return, if desired.  The multiple permanent concept allows for a more leisurely experience than a single route.  Instead of a continuous ticking clock one can take a time out between rides, including a full nights sleep.   I'm not sure if I want that, or a more traditional sleep deprived rando experience.  Either way, my intent is to do it.  I will ride alone if need be, but company is always preferred.  Anyone interested in joining me on the adventure can let me know.  I'm open to riding one-way or round trip. The ideal time would be the fall.  Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi can be deadly hot in summer.  Let's pick a date. 

Boo-ya!