My Commute: Stone Mountain to Atlanta
05-24-01, 09:46 PM
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My Commute: Stone Mountain to Atlanta
The following is a description of my commute to work by bicycle:
Soft jazz music is playing from the t.v. on the local weather channel as I get my coffee. I am paying only casual attention, as I am waiting for specifics about temperature, wind chill and chance of rain during my ride.
Starting to feel more awake, I top off my tires, reload freshly recharged batteries and ready my load. The weather looks cool and uneventful. My mind is gearing up for the ride, but I have to be sure I haven't forgotten anything for the day ahead. Down a giant orange juice and off I go.
Heading out the front door with my bike, the air is fresh and crisp.
Lights on, computer on, everything ok. Down the steep driveway, feet strapped in, and out on the quiet lane.
As I round the curve, I see familiar sights. The neighbor walking her two black canines, children waiting for their schoolbuses. The cold air bites a little on downhills, but I it will not be so for long. It is all mostly quiet, 25 mph. residential streets for the first two miles, with one big hill to get me warmed up. My heart is pumping and I'm breathing deeply. I'm settling in, now.
Now I reach the borders of my peaceful neighborhood. The traffic flowing in from surrounding areas is accumulating in the arteries (no pun intended) and I join them. I know the rules: act like I belong. I take my place among them at the light.
Green.
For the next few miles, I will pass, and be passed, by the same cars on this smooth, newly paved road. I wonder what they think of this lone cyclist who dares to join their ranks, only to prove himself faster at times by passing them. I am quite at home here, I even like being the "odd man out," proving that cycling is just as do-able as driving, even on the same road. I am setting an example that's begging to be set. So I love it.
After a tall hill and crossing a 6 + 2 lane road, I turn off onto a beautiful, quiet street which is the continuation of the road I was on. All the traffic is gone. Another tall hill, but quiet, and lots of fresh air. As I reach the top, I cross a quiet bridge. I can see the freeway below. Not a pretty picture. I am glad they use the freeway and not my street!
More children and school buses, neighborhood streets, tame traffic as I approach the next town. Now, 7 miles into my commute, I have to join the main traffic on an artery again. But I'm cool, I just take the lane, one of two in my direction (they are narrow). Nobody ever honks (well almost never!)
This artery goes practically straight into Atlanta. It passes Agnes Scott College (where my daughter will be moving in August) and goes through Decatur, Georgia, a city halfway between Stone Mountain and Atlanta. Traffic is so polite I am in "hog heaven." It seems to have gotten tamer over the years. Maybe it's just that I feel more confidence now.
Sometimes I follow the main arteries straight into Atlanta. Usually I take a parallel residential street that is popular with cyclists. Old, renovated brick houses from the early 20th century line the streets, quite different from the early 1980's versions in my neighborhood. Atlanta is reclaiming more of these jewels as prosperous couples and families move back intown. On the way home I often see baby strollers, walkers, cyclists, joggers and people eating outdoors along this street. Three nice hills in succession, pass quickly through a counter-culture business district and I am within sight of the high rise office buildings of Atlanta. It has really been a nice commute! Most of the streets have been quiet and pleasant with tame traffic.
I whip it into the parking garage, past the guard and into the freight elevator in the rear. Next stop: make my rounds, change, and EAT food! Mmmmm!
One final note: this wednesday morning (it's warmer now,) I was a little late, so I ran into Henry, who cycles part of my route also, just later. He met me a year ago on the route and I haven't seen him on my bike since, though I've seen him at other times while driving, and waved. He is a member of the Atlanta Bicycle Campaign and works for the Georgia branch of the EPA. It was good to see him again! Last time he rode alongside me and struck up a 3-mile conversation, but this time I was late, so I said, "Hey, Henry!" as I passed him. He caught me at the light and we exchanged a few more words. I felt a little rude as I said, "Well, see you later!" as the light turned green and I took off, trying to make up a little time.
Enjoy your commute, and play it safe!
(Come on in, y'all! The water's fine! Put your commute in here, let's see what the world looks like!)
This was my 700th post...i'm not sure what that means...how about, time to refill my medication!
Soft jazz music is playing from the t.v. on the local weather channel as I get my coffee. I am paying only casual attention, as I am waiting for specifics about temperature, wind chill and chance of rain during my ride.
Starting to feel more awake, I top off my tires, reload freshly recharged batteries and ready my load. The weather looks cool and uneventful. My mind is gearing up for the ride, but I have to be sure I haven't forgotten anything for the day ahead. Down a giant orange juice and off I go.
Heading out the front door with my bike, the air is fresh and crisp.
Lights on, computer on, everything ok. Down the steep driveway, feet strapped in, and out on the quiet lane.
As I round the curve, I see familiar sights. The neighbor walking her two black canines, children waiting for their schoolbuses. The cold air bites a little on downhills, but I it will not be so for long. It is all mostly quiet, 25 mph. residential streets for the first two miles, with one big hill to get me warmed up. My heart is pumping and I'm breathing deeply. I'm settling in, now.
Now I reach the borders of my peaceful neighborhood. The traffic flowing in from surrounding areas is accumulating in the arteries (no pun intended) and I join them. I know the rules: act like I belong. I take my place among them at the light.
Green.
For the next few miles, I will pass, and be passed, by the same cars on this smooth, newly paved road. I wonder what they think of this lone cyclist who dares to join their ranks, only to prove himself faster at times by passing them. I am quite at home here, I even like being the "odd man out," proving that cycling is just as do-able as driving, even on the same road. I am setting an example that's begging to be set. So I love it.
After a tall hill and crossing a 6 + 2 lane road, I turn off onto a beautiful, quiet street which is the continuation of the road I was on. All the traffic is gone. Another tall hill, but quiet, and lots of fresh air. As I reach the top, I cross a quiet bridge. I can see the freeway below. Not a pretty picture. I am glad they use the freeway and not my street!
More children and school buses, neighborhood streets, tame traffic as I approach the next town. Now, 7 miles into my commute, I have to join the main traffic on an artery again. But I'm cool, I just take the lane, one of two in my direction (they are narrow). Nobody ever honks (well almost never!)
This artery goes practically straight into Atlanta. It passes Agnes Scott College (where my daughter will be moving in August) and goes through Decatur, Georgia, a city halfway between Stone Mountain and Atlanta. Traffic is so polite I am in "hog heaven." It seems to have gotten tamer over the years. Maybe it's just that I feel more confidence now.
Sometimes I follow the main arteries straight into Atlanta. Usually I take a parallel residential street that is popular with cyclists. Old, renovated brick houses from the early 20th century line the streets, quite different from the early 1980's versions in my neighborhood. Atlanta is reclaiming more of these jewels as prosperous couples and families move back intown. On the way home I often see baby strollers, walkers, cyclists, joggers and people eating outdoors along this street. Three nice hills in succession, pass quickly through a counter-culture business district and I am within sight of the high rise office buildings of Atlanta. It has really been a nice commute! Most of the streets have been quiet and pleasant with tame traffic.
I whip it into the parking garage, past the guard and into the freight elevator in the rear. Next stop: make my rounds, change, and EAT food! Mmmmm!
One final note: this wednesday morning (it's warmer now,) I was a little late, so I ran into Henry, who cycles part of my route also, just later. He met me a year ago on the route and I haven't seen him on my bike since, though I've seen him at other times while driving, and waved. He is a member of the Atlanta Bicycle Campaign and works for the Georgia branch of the EPA. It was good to see him again! Last time he rode alongside me and struck up a 3-mile conversation, but this time I was late, so I said, "Hey, Henry!" as I passed him. He caught me at the light and we exchanged a few more words. I felt a little rude as I said, "Well, see you later!" as the light turned green and I took off, trying to make up a little time.
Enjoy your commute, and play it safe!
(Come on in, y'all! The water's fine! Put your commute in here, let's see what the world looks like!)
This was my 700th post...i'm not sure what that means...how about, time to refill my medication!
Last edited by LittleBigMan; 05-25-01 at 09:26 AM.
05-25-01, 08:23 AM
#3
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I have often wondered about your commute, Pete. Thanks for the description. I will add my journey later, as I have to get back to work now...
05-25-01, 10:56 AM
#4
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If you would like to hear about my bike ride home yesterday, please visit the Winter Biking forum. https://216.215.238.193/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1856
05-25-01, 10:59 AM
#5
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Thanks for the travelogue, Pete.
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"...perhaps the world needs a little more Canada" - Jean Chretian, 2003.
"...perhaps the world needs a little more Canada" - Jean Chretian, 2003.
05-25-01, 11:23 AM
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Well, I am assuming that this is an open invitation to describe our commutes. If so, read on....if not, disregard!
I live in rural Nebraska 7 miles from where I work. For those of you not familiar with my background, I am 52 years old, and in January, I got tired of looking like a bearded Buddah, so I went on a diet. Then I started working out. Then, inspired by a local road warrior, I decided to get a bike and ride to work. (Does this regimen work? Well, right now I have lost 47 pounds...3 to go to reach my original target, but I think I will go down 10 or so!)
My starting time at work varies during the week, but I try to leave for work an hour early. This morning, at 8:00 o'clock, the temperature was around 50 degrees, with a slight breeze out of the northwest, perfect biking weather! After topping off the air in the tires and firing up the MP3 player, off I go. I ride on a gravel road for a half block to a paved road, then 2 blocks to the highway. I turn east on US Highway 34 and settle into cruising mode.
The highway is a two lane road, with nice broad shoulders that could be a little smoother! I leave my town by crossing a bridge, then I am in farm country. This time of year, the wheat is green and starting to mature, and the new corn crop is up. I frequently see wildlife on my trip, like the doe and her fawn that stood on the road and watched me for the longest time before deciding to retreat. Or the flocks of wild turkeys or the occasional rooster pheasant. There is always something out there to see if you just look.
Since changing from my hybrid to the road bike, my speed has gone up a little, so I find myself making the trip to work in less time. Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but extra time equals more time in the saddle, so I ride on through town before turning around and finally getting to work, changing the ride from 7 miles to 10. If I decide to ride down to the Post Office to check my mail, that is the only 3 blocks that I am really in any traffic. As there is angle parking on both sides of the street, you learn real quick to watch out for cars backing into your path! Once at work, I get to keep my bike in the garage where it is nice and safe, then take a little time to get cleaned up and ready for work. I finally wised up and on the weekends, I haul in a whole weeks worth of clothes so I don't have to try packing all that stuff on the bike. My poor Sagrez had to do duty as a pickup, hauling me, my lunch, clean clothes and my industrial sized day planner to work and home every day. But, the Roubaix has no racks, so something had to change.
The ride home tonight will be a little different. It is slightly uphill, and I will have a bit of a headwind, so I will have to work a little harder. Sometimes on the way home, I see a couple of ladies on road bikes....one of these days, I'm going to have to meet them. Once again, when I get back to my home town, I ride on through, and tackle the hill that is just west of there. That is a nice way to get the heart rate up there, then I have a little over a mile to do some easy spinning and cool down before I get home.
I love the sights, sounds and smells that I get to enjoy on my commute. When I read about those that commute in real traffic, I feel sorry for them. Believe it or not, there is not a traffic light in the county! Around here, 4 cars going the same way within a mile is considered heavy traffic! The speed limit on the Highway is 65 MPH, and for the most part, the drivers treat me pretty well. Of course, you always get the little old person who hugs the white line, but that is why I have a rear view mirror!
I live in rural Nebraska 7 miles from where I work. For those of you not familiar with my background, I am 52 years old, and in January, I got tired of looking like a bearded Buddah, so I went on a diet. Then I started working out. Then, inspired by a local road warrior, I decided to get a bike and ride to work. (Does this regimen work? Well, right now I have lost 47 pounds...3 to go to reach my original target, but I think I will go down 10 or so!)
My starting time at work varies during the week, but I try to leave for work an hour early. This morning, at 8:00 o'clock, the temperature was around 50 degrees, with a slight breeze out of the northwest, perfect biking weather! After topping off the air in the tires and firing up the MP3 player, off I go. I ride on a gravel road for a half block to a paved road, then 2 blocks to the highway. I turn east on US Highway 34 and settle into cruising mode.
The highway is a two lane road, with nice broad shoulders that could be a little smoother! I leave my town by crossing a bridge, then I am in farm country. This time of year, the wheat is green and starting to mature, and the new corn crop is up. I frequently see wildlife on my trip, like the doe and her fawn that stood on the road and watched me for the longest time before deciding to retreat. Or the flocks of wild turkeys or the occasional rooster pheasant. There is always something out there to see if you just look.
Since changing from my hybrid to the road bike, my speed has gone up a little, so I find myself making the trip to work in less time. Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but extra time equals more time in the saddle, so I ride on through town before turning around and finally getting to work, changing the ride from 7 miles to 10. If I decide to ride down to the Post Office to check my mail, that is the only 3 blocks that I am really in any traffic. As there is angle parking on both sides of the street, you learn real quick to watch out for cars backing into your path! Once at work, I get to keep my bike in the garage where it is nice and safe, then take a little time to get cleaned up and ready for work. I finally wised up and on the weekends, I haul in a whole weeks worth of clothes so I don't have to try packing all that stuff on the bike. My poor Sagrez had to do duty as a pickup, hauling me, my lunch, clean clothes and my industrial sized day planner to work and home every day. But, the Roubaix has no racks, so something had to change.
The ride home tonight will be a little different. It is slightly uphill, and I will have a bit of a headwind, so I will have to work a little harder. Sometimes on the way home, I see a couple of ladies on road bikes....one of these days, I'm going to have to meet them. Once again, when I get back to my home town, I ride on through, and tackle the hill that is just west of there. That is a nice way to get the heart rate up there, then I have a little over a mile to do some easy spinning and cool down before I get home.
I love the sights, sounds and smells that I get to enjoy on my commute. When I read about those that commute in real traffic, I feel sorry for them. Believe it or not, there is not a traffic light in the county! Around here, 4 cars going the same way within a mile is considered heavy traffic! The speed limit on the Highway is 65 MPH, and for the most part, the drivers treat me pretty well. Of course, you always get the little old person who hugs the white line, but that is why I have a rear view mirror!
05-25-01, 12:13 PM
#7
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What a great account, Fujidude. I envy you your traffic-free (well, almost) roads! There's no place here I can avoid pretty heavy traffic unless I ride several miles to get there in the first place--through heavy traffic! So I just got used to traffic pretty quick. But can't say I always enjoy it.
Still, it's not that bad: I calculated on a ride the other day that I probably interacted with 500-600 cars, out of which one had a driver that was a real jerk. That's only one-fifth of one percent, in other words my ride was 99.8% trouble-free. Not bad!
I don't get to see any deer, though.
Still, it's not that bad: I calculated on a ride the other day that I probably interacted with 500-600 cars, out of which one had a driver that was a real jerk. That's only one-fifth of one percent, in other words my ride was 99.8% trouble-free. Not bad!
I don't get to see any deer, though.
05-25-01, 01:44 PM
#8
Just Follow Your Feet!
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Originally posted by nebill
I have lost 47 pounds...3 to go to reach my original target, but I think I will go down 10 or so! ...
Since changing from my hybrid to the road bike, my speed has gone up a little
I have lost 47 pounds...3 to go to reach my original target, but I think I will go down 10 or so! ...
Since changing from my hybrid to the road bike, my speed has gone up a little
That is incredible! 47 lbs, we're proud of you guy!
Shoot, you could start doing bike commercials for weight loss, like that dude in the Subway ads on TV!
05-25-01, 08:47 PM
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LOL AlphaGeek! Maybe I should get with Fuji, and get a couple of new bikes so I would look good on TV!!
It is sure nice to look down and not see so much of me anymore! And, the bike riding is sure making the old legs look good! Tonight, on the way home, I had the expected head wind, but instead of spinning like a good boy should, I grabbed one gear higher than I should have, and gave the legs a real good workout!
"Hmm, was it the lighter road bike, or the lighter nebill that increased the speed???!"
Yeah, good point, although I like to think that it is the roadbike that made the difference, but I am pedalling around a lot less weight than I was just a month ago! It is really fun loosing the weight and being able to ride the bike! A good incentive to keep it off, too. Our local bike club is sponsoring a century ride later this year, so I am working hard to get in shape for that.
Kinda wondered off the subject of the commute! Even with the headwind, I managed to stretch the ride to 10 miles instead of 7. When I really get in shape, I have a route picked out that will make my 7 mile commute into 19, with a bunch of hills. I am no road warrior yet, but I am working toward it!
It is sure nice to look down and not see so much of me anymore! And, the bike riding is sure making the old legs look good! Tonight, on the way home, I had the expected head wind, but instead of spinning like a good boy should, I grabbed one gear higher than I should have, and gave the legs a real good workout!
"Hmm, was it the lighter road bike, or the lighter nebill that increased the speed???!"
Yeah, good point, although I like to think that it is the roadbike that made the difference, but I am pedalling around a lot less weight than I was just a month ago! It is really fun loosing the weight and being able to ride the bike! A good incentive to keep it off, too. Our local bike club is sponsoring a century ride later this year, so I am working hard to get in shape for that.
Kinda wondered off the subject of the commute! Even with the headwind, I managed to stretch the ride to 10 miles instead of 7. When I really get in shape, I have a route picked out that will make my 7 mile commute into 19, with a bunch of hills. I am no road warrior yet, but I am working toward it!
05-26-01, 10:00 PM
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nebill, I've lost 35 pound since January. Since then I've been cycling almost every day. It also helps out that I've developed better eating habits. This moring I rode 50 miles. I arrived back in my town at 47 miles, and as I got off my bike at the gas station to get some bike gas (poweraide & snicker bar), every muscle in my legs, back, and neck screamed in agony. I was 3 miles from a half-century, so I knew I couldn't stop, even though I was only a half mile from home. This morning was the first time that I have done a half century since I was in Boy Scouts (early 80s), and we only did that once.
Tonight I put my son in his seat that attaches to my back rack and we rode 10 miles. That means I rode 60 miles today. I'm quite proud of my accomplishment! Other than my knees being a bit sore, I had no serious muscle fatigue that affected my extra riding tonight. Does the weight loss add speed?...heck yea! :thumbup:
I don't really have a goal for the weight I want to lose. I feel like I'm in somewhat good shape right now, so every additional pound that comes off my body is just a bonus! Besides, if I lose too much more I'll have to start buying new clothes. :thumbdn:
Tonight I put my son in his seat that attaches to my back rack and we rode 10 miles. That means I rode 60 miles today. I'm quite proud of my accomplishment! Other than my knees being a bit sore, I had no serious muscle fatigue that affected my extra riding tonight. Does the weight loss add speed?...heck yea! :thumbup:
I don't really have a goal for the weight I want to lose. I feel like I'm in somewhat good shape right now, so every additional pound that comes off my body is just a bonus! Besides, if I lose too much more I'll have to start buying new clothes. :thumbdn:
05-26-01, 10:24 PM
#11
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This proves it. Same with me.
The bike was the weight loss, fitness, pleasure-center all rolled into one. Don't tell me, "Aerobic exercise alone will not give you the slim figure you're looking for."
Pshaw!
Keep goin', prove it, guys! (and gals, too!)
Excuuuuuse me, but for the price of one of those, "endorsed-by-so-and-so-indoor-foldaway-3-minutes-a-day" machines, you could get a bike (or close to it.) Duh? What's so hard?
<heavy metal background music plays> "Get your Bowflex, here. Step right up." "The Total Gym..." "The Ab Roller..." "The giggly-wiggly machine..."
Bah! Humbug.
Hey, in place of one of those "Ab-rollers," I thought, "Hey, Pete! Get a roller skate and you can achieve the same thing on your carpet!"
:thumbup:
The bike was the weight loss, fitness, pleasure-center all rolled into one. Don't tell me, "Aerobic exercise alone will not give you the slim figure you're looking for."
Pshaw!
Keep goin', prove it, guys! (and gals, too!)
Excuuuuuse me, but for the price of one of those, "endorsed-by-so-and-so-indoor-foldaway-3-minutes-a-day" machines, you could get a bike (or close to it.) Duh? What's so hard?
<heavy metal background music plays> "Get your Bowflex, here. Step right up." "The Total Gym..." "The Ab Roller..." "The giggly-wiggly machine..."
Bah! Humbug.
Hey, in place of one of those "Ab-rollers," I thought, "Hey, Pete! Get a roller skate and you can achieve the same thing on your carpet!"
:thumbup:
Last edited by LittleBigMan; 05-26-01 at 10:34 PM.
05-26-01, 11:02 PM
#12
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Good for you AF! That is great that you have lost that much! Believe it or not, I have always been in pretty good shape. Before I went to work for the local ISP, I drove a ready mix truck, so I got a lot of excercise. My heart has always been in such good shape, that my Doctor never even told me to loose weight (although she did think that cutting down on the beer might not be a bad idea!) She does not know I have been loosing this weight, so I am anxious for my next physical...can't wait to see her reaction when she sees my weight from the last physical (260 pounds) and my current weight! I am trying real hard to reach 200 by that time.
I rode my Roubaix 30 miles last Sunday (I just got it the day before!), and was really none the worse for the ride. I hope that sometime this weekend, I get to ride. The goal for this ride is 56 miles round trip. I feel pretty confident in this ride, as it is all pretty flat. After I have done this a couple times, then I will add another 12 miles to the route. This will really be a challenge, as it is 12 miles of hills!
I guess that is one of the things I love about riding. I set goals for myself, and with a little bit of sweat and practice, I reach them. Two months ago, I would not believe that I could ride 30 miles in a day, much less the 100 I want to do in a couple months! But, that is my goal!
I have already gotten some new clothes...a size smaller than what I have worn for years! I still wear the old stuff...but now I tuck in the shirts instead of leaving them out! A couple nites ago, I was wearing some old jean shorts and a t-shirt. When I was getting ready for bed, I pulled off the t-shirt, and the shorts fell to the floor! It was funny, but also really great!!
I rode my Roubaix 30 miles last Sunday (I just got it the day before!), and was really none the worse for the ride. I hope that sometime this weekend, I get to ride. The goal for this ride is 56 miles round trip. I feel pretty confident in this ride, as it is all pretty flat. After I have done this a couple times, then I will add another 12 miles to the route. This will really be a challenge, as it is 12 miles of hills!
I guess that is one of the things I love about riding. I set goals for myself, and with a little bit of sweat and practice, I reach them. Two months ago, I would not believe that I could ride 30 miles in a day, much less the 100 I want to do in a couple months! But, that is my goal!
I have already gotten some new clothes...a size smaller than what I have worn for years! I still wear the old stuff...but now I tuck in the shirts instead of leaving them out! A couple nites ago, I was wearing some old jean shorts and a t-shirt. When I was getting ready for bed, I pulled off the t-shirt, and the shorts fell to the floor! It was funny, but also really great!!
05-27-01, 01:03 AM
#13
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Originally posted by A F Baker
That means I rode 60 miles today. I'm quite proud of my accomplishment! Other than my knees being a bit sore, I had no serious muscle fatigue that affected my extra riding tonight.
That means I rode 60 miles today. I'm quite proud of my accomplishment! Other than my knees being a bit sore, I had no serious muscle fatigue that affected my extra riding tonight.
As for the knees, mine have a way of telling me if it's just temporary soreness or something that demands some attention. The temporary goes away within a day....
By the way, you and Fujidude better give serious thought to what size BikeForums T-shirt (or jersey) you order! It sounds like clothing sizes are changing as rapidly as the Forum page design!
05-27-01, 08:23 AM
#14
Senior Member
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Austin, TX
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Bikes: '76 Schwinn Paramout (Liberty) and an '89 Paramount (ol' Blue)
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Don't worry about that JonR!! When the t-shirt/jerseys are ready, I will know what size to get! Not going to go for that skin tight look anyway, I don't look that good!!
05-27-01, 11:09 AM
#15
Love Me....Love My Bike!
Join Date: Dec 2000
Location: Winnipeg
Posts: 1,231
Bikes: Bikes: Giant hybrid, Trek 4500, Cannondale R800 Some commuting 20mi/day, mostly fitness riding - 20-50 mile rides
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Had a great ride into work this morning.
I was a little late getting started, didn't think I'd be able to do the extra little bit I usually do to add another 10-12k's, but as I was turning onto the main road leading out of town, coincidentally called Main St.!) there was another guy on a road bike ahead of me.
Caught up to him at the next light(and one of the few stoplights on my route), and we rode together for most of the trip. He was out for a Saturday morning ride, said he's into Triathlons, I was on my commute.
Well, between drafting and pulling, and no wind I made up the time and did that extra distance, and still made it in on time. Didn't know the other guy, and probably won't see him again, but it was a pleasant ride, we had some conversation, and averaged 32km/hr. over deserted new pavement, along the river, ducks and geese on and over the water.
I'm not sure if I could have kept up his pace, (and he was probably loafing), all the way, but it was a great ride.
I was a little late getting started, didn't think I'd be able to do the extra little bit I usually do to add another 10-12k's, but as I was turning onto the main road leading out of town, coincidentally called Main St.!) there was another guy on a road bike ahead of me.
Caught up to him at the next light(and one of the few stoplights on my route), and we rode together for most of the trip. He was out for a Saturday morning ride, said he's into Triathlons, I was on my commute.
Well, between drafting and pulling, and no wind I made up the time and did that extra distance, and still made it in on time. Didn't know the other guy, and probably won't see him again, but it was a pleasant ride, we had some conversation, and averaged 32km/hr. over deserted new pavement, along the river, ducks and geese on and over the water.
I'm not sure if I could have kept up his pace, (and he was probably loafing), all the way, but it was a great ride.
__________________
"...perhaps the world needs a little more Canada" - Jean Chretian, 2003.
"...perhaps the world needs a little more Canada" - Jean Chretian, 2003.
05-30-01, 01:09 PM
#16
Traffic shark
Join Date: May 2001
Location: California
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Bikes: 2 fixies, 1 road, 29er in the works.
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I'm not quite so eloquent as the orginal poster on this thread. So I'll follow in somewhat paler tire tracks.
I usaully have granola and soymilk (regular milk made me cramp up on swims and get tired faster, so I applied this to my commute). Or I'll eat an apple or banana. No TV for me, I check the weather the day before.
Out and down the street to the main road. Probably a 200 ft drop in eleveation. Usually it's quiet (I live in an apartment complex), and rarely do I see anyone, as I get on the road about 430 ish. The main drag outside where I live is always quiet, no traffic this early. I then turn off to a two lane road "Jamacha". This road at the moment I turn on to it, is a fast down hill. I prolly loose about 500 ft elevation in about a mile. It gets chilly as I haven't had to peddle at all really. At the bottom, I'm near the resevoir and there is always a heavy moist humid feeling, the air has a pungent odor about it. I then hit my first up hill into a somewhat commercial/light industrial area. Once topped out there, it's a scarry down hill past two lights onto my next turn, where they are building a new highway. The road is new and flat so I"m always kind of trying not to push my self faster, as the mother of all hills (except the return ride) comes up. It's probably a regain of my decent in the first stage. After that, I cruise through a poor, but hard working neighboor hood. Houses with 6 or 7 cars, but nice yards, and kid's toys out side. After another drop I merage more southerly, and I'm running parallel to the trolley system. At this point, I'm probably half way. The first tolley is a good indicator of how I"m doing on time... If I make it to the second station, I'm on time, if not, I"m a little behind. There is a slight uphill after the trolley veers off and I crest out near a road called Euclid.. really rough part of town. But there it's down hill and a fast run to a street that runs slightly parallel. After about a mile, one of my favorite things: the "roach coach" - mobile food van facilities, that at that time are loading up with cheap mexican food. I like it because there is always the smell of fresh spice ground beef, and fruit. I don't like it because they inverably spill ice on the road and it's slick with grease, etc.. But they wave and laugh in spanish. I understand some, don't others. The synopsis that I'm a crazy white guy to ride in this part of town when it's dark.. I get the feeling that if something were to happen to me, they'd run out and defend me though...
Camel humps is my best description. Up down, up down, up down.. probably about 9. Two freeways, one over (805) one under (15). After the last free way, two climbs with short drops at the end ~ nice because I can pick up some speed to beat the next hill with.
ALBERTOS! The fast food joint at the top of the hill! And the last high hill. From there on it's down hill into down town San Diego. In town, I'm usually there around 520 ish.. Beside trolley tracks, if I time it right I can hit all the lights green untill I cross over to broadway. At broad way I ride to the water and if I've done well on time, no flats (https://216.215.238.193/showthread.ph...1537#post11537) I can rest for about 5 minutes before I hop on the free comuter ferry and get a 10 minute cruise across the bay to North Island. I go early because there is a ferry an hour later that I can ride if something goes wrong, and also, if I'm sparky, I'll get in the pool and swim ~ a nice way to start the day.
Well, there you have it.
I usaully have granola and soymilk (regular milk made me cramp up on swims and get tired faster, so I applied this to my commute). Or I'll eat an apple or banana. No TV for me, I check the weather the day before.
Out and down the street to the main road. Probably a 200 ft drop in eleveation. Usually it's quiet (I live in an apartment complex), and rarely do I see anyone, as I get on the road about 430 ish. The main drag outside where I live is always quiet, no traffic this early. I then turn off to a two lane road "Jamacha". This road at the moment I turn on to it, is a fast down hill. I prolly loose about 500 ft elevation in about a mile. It gets chilly as I haven't had to peddle at all really. At the bottom, I'm near the resevoir and there is always a heavy moist humid feeling, the air has a pungent odor about it. I then hit my first up hill into a somewhat commercial/light industrial area. Once topped out there, it's a scarry down hill past two lights onto my next turn, where they are building a new highway. The road is new and flat so I"m always kind of trying not to push my self faster, as the mother of all hills (except the return ride) comes up. It's probably a regain of my decent in the first stage. After that, I cruise through a poor, but hard working neighboor hood. Houses with 6 or 7 cars, but nice yards, and kid's toys out side. After another drop I merage more southerly, and I'm running parallel to the trolley system. At this point, I'm probably half way. The first tolley is a good indicator of how I"m doing on time... If I make it to the second station, I'm on time, if not, I"m a little behind. There is a slight uphill after the trolley veers off and I crest out near a road called Euclid.. really rough part of town. But there it's down hill and a fast run to a street that runs slightly parallel. After about a mile, one of my favorite things: the "roach coach" - mobile food van facilities, that at that time are loading up with cheap mexican food. I like it because there is always the smell of fresh spice ground beef, and fruit. I don't like it because they inverably spill ice on the road and it's slick with grease, etc.. But they wave and laugh in spanish. I understand some, don't others. The synopsis that I'm a crazy white guy to ride in this part of town when it's dark.. I get the feeling that if something were to happen to me, they'd run out and defend me though...
Camel humps is my best description. Up down, up down, up down.. probably about 9. Two freeways, one over (805) one under (15). After the last free way, two climbs with short drops at the end ~ nice because I can pick up some speed to beat the next hill with.
ALBERTOS! The fast food joint at the top of the hill! And the last high hill. From there on it's down hill into down town San Diego. In town, I'm usually there around 520 ish.. Beside trolley tracks, if I time it right I can hit all the lights green untill I cross over to broadway. At broad way I ride to the water and if I've done well on time, no flats (https://216.215.238.193/showthread.ph...1537#post11537) I can rest for about 5 minutes before I hop on the free comuter ferry and get a 10 minute cruise across the bay to North Island. I go early because there is a ferry an hour later that I can ride if something goes wrong, and also, if I'm sparky, I'll get in the pool and swim ~ a nice way to start the day.
Well, there you have it.
05-30-01, 01:42 PM
#17
Sumanitu taka owaci
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Originally posted by William Karsten
...mobile food van facilities, that at that time are loading up with cheap mexican food. I like it because there is always the smell of fresh spice ground beef, and fruit. I don't like it because they inverably spill ice on the road and it's slick with grease, etc.. But they wave and laugh in spanish. I understand some, don't others. The synopsis that I'm a crazy white guy to ride in this part of town when it's dark.. I get the feeling that if something were to happen to me, they'd run out and defend me though...
...mobile food van facilities, that at that time are loading up with cheap mexican food. I like it because there is always the smell of fresh spice ground beef, and fruit. I don't like it because they inverably spill ice on the road and it's slick with grease, etc.. But they wave and laugh in spanish. I understand some, don't others. The synopsis that I'm a crazy white guy to ride in this part of town when it's dark.. I get the feeling that if something were to happen to me, they'd run out and defend me though...
bonafide bike commuter. So now I can welcome you and respond to your post at the same time.
I agree that some places are not a good idea to ride through because of a crime risk. But on the other hand, when I ride through a neighborhood of regular folk who just happen to be a little different from me, I enjoy the reward of being waved at. I enjoy breaking down those barriers that separate people.
(Then again, when it comes to cyclists who are different from me,
I am paranoid!
)
05-30-01, 02:49 PM
#18
Carfree since '82. Grrr!
Join Date: Mar 2000
Location: Kansas City, Missouri, USA
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I like it a lot!
I'll bet you would find some defenders if trouble happened.
And I notice you mentioning now and then food...food...foooood...
It reminds me that in Kansas City there are (or at least used to be) some regular bike group rides that were themed around food: one was a circuit of bakeries; one concentrated on ethnic specialties, etc. I never went on one--I have this notion I couldn't keep up on any group ride. Besides, sometimes I find it pretty hard pedaling on a full stomach! But the idea is appealing.
Aren't there sharks in those San Diego waters, though? :confused:
I'll bet you would find some defenders if trouble happened.
And I notice you mentioning now and then food...food...foooood...
It reminds me that in Kansas City there are (or at least used to be) some regular bike group rides that were themed around food: one was a circuit of bakeries; one concentrated on ethnic specialties, etc. I never went on one--I have this notion I couldn't keep up on any group ride. Besides, sometimes I find it pretty hard pedaling on a full stomach! But the idea is appealing.
Aren't there sharks in those San Diego waters, though? :confused:
