Uber windy here today in New York, but so warm there had to be a way to get in a ride ... among the trees and hills, sheltered from the wind. Normally in late January we're freezing our butts off. Now that may come tomorrow as this cold front kicks in, but today

...just had to find a way to ride. Way too windy for the road bike (40+gusts) so time to pump up that rear shock and test it among the tree roots to see if it's holding its air.

It had been a long time since I had taken on the challenge of the biggest hill in my area, and I was overdue for a slow, slogging climber of a day. It's a lot faster climb on a 10lbs lighter road bike for sure, but today was a good time to break off the road into the woods. The hills and off-road sections did a great job of blocking the wind.

more report: Gimme Shelter