Well I made it. Zero flat tires, no mechanical problems, and only a minor physical issue. My racing bike has never been this dirty before though, I have to wash it again, dang. Talked to some newbie and some veterans for the first time. Something to keep in mind all of you that say this ride is too hard:
1) I weighed 275 lbs at the start, dressed a little more.
2) My longest ride this season was 34 miles.
3) I averaged only 1.5 rides a week for the last few months.
4) I finished.
This ride is amazing, the support all the way around is awesome. The guys from Old Town Bicycle take amazing care of our steeds. The Rotarians that man the Rider Service Centers and the meals are the best. Multicare has seen to it that every dollar donated goes directly to the cause, all expenses are covered by either donations or by Multicare. It’s still not too late to donate at:
http://www.firstgiving.com/bikermikey2008
I noticed at least three vintage bikes on the ride, one has been on this ride longer than I have. I started as a rookie in 1997. New bikes start around 20 lbs for an affordable model, these vintage bikes are usually a bit heavier. I might go back to my 1982 Fuji Touring Series 4 for next year just for fun. The last time i weighed that bike it was about 23 lbs. my Klien Quantum Race that I rode this year is about 18 lbs.
The News Tribune had a blogger on the ride see his experience on the Adventure Guys blog give it a read. I took at least a few pictures, but did not have my card reader or cable to transfer them. I should get the photos up when I get home Wednesday or so.
