Spaghetti Legs 

Thanks for putting in the time to make those posts Matt. Great pics! That looked like some really hard riding going into Sprague and I remember that gravel being pretty thick on the Iron Horse Trail. How’d those 2 days stack up to other hard riding you’ve done in the past? I think they would have broken me. I’ve camped out in parking lots before but never ridden a bike like that the next day!

davester

Wowza! That last bit of your ride sounds pretty rough. At least you have good stories to tell. I know that the worst memories of my worst days touring have faded and have been replaced by fond recollections of triumphing over adversity. I suspect it is the same for you (or will be soon).

mountaindave 

The ironic part of this sign is that Lynn, the landowner, is one of the kindest, most generous people I know. A true rancher of the land who helps his neighbors and gives what he can. But he doesn’t appreciate uninvited guests who mess up or litter his property.
You are absolutely correct, Matt. I truly felt like I was flying the whole weekend - a feeling created solely by the ride and, most especially, by the people. (And without my readers on, I can’t tell if it’s out of focus on my phone! )

mountaindave 

I graduated from college in ‘97, but I’m sure he’s just a friend away!

squirtdad

and is was great the you could do the ride. your victory lap so to speak

gugie 

Matt,

Your posts read like a classic Western, written by a cowboy, movie directed by John Ford.
Which is funny, as I often describe you as looking like the Marlboro Man, if he didn't smoke but rode a bike a couple hundred miles per week.
@northbend

northbend 

You never know how resilient you are unless you are tested but I am sure you know that already, Hugh.
This was only a bike ride, done voluntarily for fun and adventure with the knowledge that if things got really out of hand, my wife was just a few hours away to bail me out.
Nothing remotely as serious when I think of what you musta went through as an MD during the dark days of Covid.

The windy days reminded me of riding through the armpit of central Wyoming on my way to Colorado back in 2017.
Specifically, the stormy overnight stay on a grassy patch in front of the lonely gas station in a place called Muddy Gap where I am sure customers used to let their dogs out to relieve themselves. That was worse.

Yea, you understand, Dave. Memories are a wonderful thing, how the good stuff remains and the bad is muted over time.
I really don't mind physical hardship. It safely feeds my stubborn nature which most of the time I am embarrassed about as a personality trait.
When things get tough I like how it makes me think of what my elemental priorities are.

Kabuki12

Hey Matt, You could write a book! That was an awesome account of your ride back to NB. Nice photos make for a theater of the mind.I have never ventured too far on my bicycle but ride regularly enough to meet with howling headwinds and they can break down even the best of attitudes . A mild climb can become a trip through hell and back . Joe

rowjimmy

Love that water bottle holder

Roger M

Thanks for a great read, Matt. That new Beverly Bridge looks awesome! I'm glad you made it home inside of your time frame. Happy Birthday!

majmt 

Well said Matt! I’m late to add any comments on the recent posts but would like to express what a pleasure it was to meet up and ride with (but mostly behind) such a great group of enthusiasts possessing such a deep appreciation of the simple bicycle. My only regrets would be not getting to spend more time with everyone and missing the golden opportunity to ride up to Logan Pass the next evening - the photos posted by davester looked glorious, I don’t think it gets any better than that. Matt, your travel log was beautiful - I had to re-read it a couple of times.

These rides mean a great deal to Kathy and me. 15 years ago, I was unable to even walk after a bad motorcycle wreck and the thought of ever being able to bike again was a distant dream that I was afraid I’d have to give up. In addition to seeing me go through several surgeries and nursing me back to health, Kathy also had to get through an episode of cancer. For us to be able to make this ride with you folks is truly a dream come true. Thank-you all.

mountaindave 

You both are truly an inspiration! I would never have known it if you hadn't said it - you both are such strong riders! Thank you for sharing your stories and how special to be able to share Cino with you.

bironi

It was great to meet up with both of you as well.
I was slow and rode mostly on my own, but loved chatting with peeps like yourself.
Perhaps next time around?
By

Roger M

A little Cino bump, and what came in the mail today.

My Cino jersey arrived today. Thanks David! It's a really nice looking top. Thomas and I are looking forward to wearing them on some cooler Fall rides.

mountaindave 

Glad you like it, Roger - and thanks for the patience!

Indeed, the green jerseys made it out!

I'll give you guys the 411 first: we have two extra short sleeve green jerseys in XL and XXL. Shoot me an email.

(Oops, sorry, I forgot this isn't the for sale section)

Wildwood 

Most importantly Dave - who did you appoint as your successor for next year?

I got 2 buddies committed….

mountaindave 

A husband and wife team (parents at the school) have taken on the mantle. They are both driver-type personalities whereas I’m better suited as a cheerleader. Maybe spiritual guide sounds better.

pastorbobnlnh 

I've sent you a PM.

squirtdad

see here Cino MMXXIII and beyond ???

good for people for provide input and show interest

Wildwood 

Thanks @squirtdad. Communicated with Cino. If not there, my registration fee will be a donation, but I am expecting a good 'return on donation'.

We need Lascauxcaveman at this next event.

he's gone Postal for too long. But have not heard in a while.

merziac

He chimed in on something just the other day, maybe a week ago.