Now that spring has finally arrived (here in nc anyway), I'm seeing a lot of riders out and about. Yesterday I took my '80 Mclean out for a ~50 mile circuit, with a ~3 hour climbing/work session at the midpoint (climbing gym in morrisville). The Mclean has a light rear rack, which was perfect for toting shorts, t-shirt, flat kit, some food, etc. It has Campy SR w/ downtube shifters, my low gear is 42/26 I believe, which was moderately challenging at times but worked well overall. I run 28mm tires on it, so I took a route that goes partly along a paved greenway, and through umstead state park for 5 miles or so, on fine mesh gravel road. That was a lot of fun, except having to dodge oblivious peds and stop-blockers. Some people must not really think about the "multi-use" aspect of the paths, they will either walk fully across it, or stop and gather to chat in the middle of it, usually at the bottom of a steep hill On the way back I stopped for a slice of pie and a pironi beer, both of which were quite the tasty treat. I then sized up a stromboli and realized it would fit in my rack bag if it were wrapped and secured properly, and so i toted one home for my supper. But not before stopping for a double latte for additional fuel for the last 8 miles! Nice day - where did you ride?

obligatory Mclean pic: