Originally Posted by
Scott P
I did the ride in Coldspring with our MS150 team It was damp, foggy, cool and even a bit rainy at spots. Hills are not fun in the wetness, especially being the first ride of the year. Hills are tougher and people are on the brakes more going down the wet hills. At the first stop, we were wet, a bit tired already and the road was covered in gravel and it was bumpy. We decided on the 25 mile route. The weather had cleared up a bit by the second rest stop, but were were all still feeling it. It was only about 15 miles at that point, but it felt like 25. I think a couple of us could have done the 32 mile route, but that last will would have been tough. In hindsight, I should have done the longer route. As soon as I hit the dirt parking lot, I heard air escaping from my front tire. It was flat by the time I had my bike leaning against my truck. I picked up a small piece of glass in the middle of the tire. I patched the tire at home and installed a new tube. I'm ordering a new pair of Continentals today as these Michelins are worn out after just one season. I had to give my bike a good washing too as it was covered in dirt. I even tossed on a coat of wax (actually a sealant) while I was at it.
It was my first time doing this ride. It was organized fairly well. Parking was a bit tough and more signage would have been nice. It was a nice bonus to have the girls of the dance team offer to hold our bikes while we snacked or used the too few port a potties.
The Humble Lions Club ride is in three weeks. A nice, long flat ride with one pass over the Bridge of Death. I just home it is better organized this year than it was last year.
This was my fourth year to do this ride and was my first organized ride ever. I did the 46 mile route. Purposely waited till most of the waves were released and was at the front of the last wave. I wanted less congestion on the first section with the hills since it was wet and the one portion of road was horrible.
I didn't think it would rain, but had some brief sections with light rain. My wife was there with a group of friends and said there was a point where they got soaked. After I made the turn around and got back to the second rest stop, I took off my socks and squeezed a bunch of water out. That made the last half feel so much better.
I will agree that they could do a better job with the parking. But Coldspring is such a small town, and I guess they think that we can figure it out.