Back in the Saddle Again

Headed out again today for another long day on the bike. Ended up with over 80miles. Jeff Kerkove joined me again. We headed up the Poudre Canyon for about 40miles of gradual climbing. Then we took a turn up a gravel/dirt road (had no idea going into the ride it was gravel/dirt). Up until the turn, the climbing wasn't that bad. This gravel road was steep. I was in my 39-25 going 4mph at a cadence of 35rpm. It hurt! To make the road even more epic, there was still some snow/ice on the road. We topped out at just over 8600feet. Descending on the gravel road was tricky for sure. Definitely glad I switched my Michelin Pro2 Race tires out for Specialized Armadillos. I was pretty impressed with those tires today. After quite a few miles went by, along with awesome scenery, we made it to Red Feathers Lake road. It was paved with some pretty fun and fast descents. The wind wasn't too much of a factor on today's ride, even though it was extremely windy. The temperatures never got too low and I stayed warm for the entire 5+hours. Tomorrow is a little easier day, thankfully! The legs are starting to feel it for sure. Here's some pictures from today's ride.

A tunnel while heading up Highway 14 (Poudre Canyon).

Came across these bighorn sheep (I think that's what they are).

The epic gravel road.

Clouds rolling through the snow-caps.

Came across some wondering cows on the way back to FoCo. Check out JK's site as I'm sure he got better pictures then me.

That's all for now. Have a great evening!
-A