275 Days to the Ride

Today I'm going to take another "cold weather ride". The temps in Michigan have gone down into the high 30's F as the "witch of November" stalks us so I'm going to test out my cold weather riding gear as a practice session for riding through the Rocky Mountains at high elevations. Admittedly, the simulation is not a perfect situation but it's the best I can do here in the flatlands; plus I want to get as much riding in as I can while the weather is still decent. The fall colors are starting to show and a ride out into the country is just what I need to keep me from the doldrums of the impending winter; that and the fact that we're slated for rain this weekend so "ride while the sun is shining has become my new mantra"

I've about finished the "trip route", my version anyway, and will be asking the riders to agree or offer alternatives in the near future. Ralph has offered to ask his daughter to help us find accomodations along the way (cheap ones Ralph; none of those 5 Star Hotels that McManus favors). The itinerary and list of "target cities" each day is based on trying to ride about 400 miles each day. It remains to be seen if we can maintain that pace or even want to. We have a lot of exploring to accomplish during the three weeks on the road so flexibility will be key.

Enough on that topic; probably going to take a few days off from posting unless I come up with anything intersting or that needs to be shared. I met with Ray Frase yesterday and he reluctantly agreed to be our "Road Captain". He said trying to get Bubbleheads and Marines to go in one direction is like "herding cats" but feels he is up to the task. He felt that Roy (Air Force) would be easy because Air Force guys are accustomed to having strange voices in their headsets tell them when to turn and go up or down.

Enjoy the day; if you're riding then "ride safe"

Just got back from a ride to the country; rather brisk but exhilarating. Every time I ride in rush hour traffic around here I'm reminded of why I hate riding in rush hour traffic. Too many boneheads on cell phones. But, once I got away from the crowds and the road opened up it was great. I think the dreaming about the open road phase is beginning for me.
Life is good;