I just wanted to give folks an update. I did a 40 mile, difficult ride in the mountains of N. GA called three gaps. I went over three mountain passes. One mountain climb is about 7 miles long. My Achilles hurt a bit early in the ride, but calmed down. Unfortunately, there was no spinning going up these inclines and I had to mash my way up two of the three climbs. The last time I did this ride I had a bike with a triple and I was able to spin at least up the 7 mile climb. I have a compact and a rear 11-32 cassette. My legs are just not as strong as just 6 months ago because I have been unable to work out or push a big gear.


The good news is my quad and Achilles seemed to handle the abuse. The next day my hamstrings were sore and today my calves are tight, but nothing really horrible. I think all the stretching and icing, etc. have helped my Achilles.


For various fit issues, I've had trouble getting my body adjusted back to my old bike with the triple, but I think I'm going to try to ride the triple so I can more easily spin up mountains. If the old bike with the triple doesn't work out, I'm going to see if I can put a larger cassette on my new bike.


I appreciate all the advice.