Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Sunday - Palisades, Greenwood to Houston Rd to Centennial Trail

Just in case I actually do the Gran Fondo Ephrata this year, I thought I should start getting some longer rides in.  I'm hoping some 20+ mile rides will translate into an 80 mile gravel/road Fondo ride in less than 10 hours.

With that in mind, I took the Vaya 2 out on a test run Sunday.  Mid-30's temp almost felt balmy after our January temps in the teens and 20's.  I can't believe we never had a good ol' January thaw this year.

Like usual, I had no real plan and headed to Downriver and then across TJ Meenach bridge.  Checked out the River trail but it's covered in snow and needs some thawing and drying out. Headed out Gov't Way then up Greenwood past Indian Canyon to Palisades Park.  I believe I got to try out the low 36 gear on the Vaya heading up Greenwood.

the view from Palisades Park.
Took Greenwood to Grove and turned around before Highway 2.  Thought about taking Basalt, but kept going and missed a turn so ended up taking Grove the length of Palisades Park all the way to Houston. I think the below pictures are all Houston. Or Grove.



Parts of Houston were still covered in snow and ice, other parts fairly smooth gravel. Mostly downhill.  I wasn't real familiar with Houston and wasn't sure where it was going - was surprised when I finally came off it and I was at the entrance to the Military Cemetery off Gov't way. Didn't realize I was so far west. Hooked up with the Centennial Trail and headed home.  I think this is going to be a nice ride, only next time I'll reverse it so I get the chance to ride up Houston. Gotta build some leg muscles, this slow winter commuting has made me a little flabby.

The Vaya handled great. Wileydog is still happy with it.

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