So i just got back from my first loop through Central Park, and here are my impressions for anybody that cares, or might have some insightful comments...
First off, i'm not sure how accurate my cyclometer is (user error no doubt), i measured it out at 6.36mi, anybody know if this is the right ballpark or not? (second, yes, i know i'm a total wuss only doing 8.5mi total, but keep in mind the total accumulation of my winter gear is a skintight thermal shirt, hiking sock to go under my 11 year old addidas samba sneakers and a pair of 180's that just fit under my squash bucket, EMS gloves, and oh yeah, for my legs, mesh shorts with boxer briefs underneath. I'm amazed the woman let me out of the house to ride, it was 34F when i left).
Next, the east side seems like much easier going than the west. I will allow this may be because i enter the park at the 110th street at the base of Great Hill, but the slopes seem more gentle on the east side, and the roads better maintained. Anybody got a point/counterpoint to this?
Lastly, riding through the park with no vehicular traffic may just be the single greatest thing i have experienced while riding in the city. I went out last weekend for about a 30mi spin with 5BBC, and while an immensely good time, i hate riding in traffic. I'm still not really comfortable on the roadbike (due to inexperience) and i'm naturally twitchy. I'm sure i'll get over this, but to use a word from Lemony Snicket, it's nice to have a little 'sanctuary'. Foot traffic was fairly well behaved, even the tourists, and other cyclists were downright pleasant. Even got a compliment on my 'vintage' Cannondale. For the record, it's a '92 R600, not so vintage i'm figuring
I don't think i'll be able to do much more riding until the spring since winter riding gear isn't exactly in the budget (i can't afford shorts at the moment...), but i'm looking forward to being able to ride more in the park. I have got to take a picture of the mountain lion....
If anybody can back-up/dispute my claim on the east side being easier, or give me a little generality on the personality of the park spring/summer vs. fall/winter that would be key. thanks