This blog was written by Michael with editing and comments provided by Gloria and Eric.
Please note that we continue to have inconsistent internet and phone service. We post when we can. This causes our posts to be out of order. So please check the date on the post if you would like to read them in order.
We expected today to be wet, very wet. However, luckily for us Mother Nature had not read the weather forecast. We had some light drizzle in the morning and light drizzle near the top of the first peak, but overall the weather was very pleasant all day long, cool and not raining - just about perfect bicycling weather.
The cows in the Big Hole Valley were watching us as we set out.
We had two healthy climbs today to Big Hole Pass at 7360 feet and to Badger Pass at 6760 feet. Luckily for us we were already fairly high and each time the climb was only about a thousand feet up. Neither of the climbs were all that steep for these three experienced pros.
We did thoroughly enjoy the 2 downhill runs from the above 2 peaks. I maxed out at 46 mph for a short period on one downhill and we all enjoyed the 14 mile downhill stretch from Badger Pass to the outskirts of Dillon. I would venture to guess that this downhill was the fastest 14 miles any of the three of us have ever done on a bike. My estimate is that I averaged over 25 mph in that stretch. Gloria here - Bob always wanted me to go over 40 mph downhill. Today I did 42. I yelled out, "Bob, this is for you!"
We didn't stop at any stores, rest stops, or restaurants - mostly because there were none. That may have contributed to the speed of today's ride. However we were all proud of ourselves for completing another ride without a SAG, with all our gear, with no stores along the way, and with no problems.
We did see several interesting devices that we later learned were used in storing hay (Beaver slide hay stackers). Somehow these devices are used to create huge piles of hay.
We also stopped by the road to Bannack State Park. Bannack was the first capitol of the Montana territory.
Tomorrow we have a 48 - 59 mile ride so we plan to get up early...again. We are still discussing the risks and merits of taking an 11 mile back road shortcut recommended by Google maps. (Is it paved or gravel, are there road signs or do we just go by mileage, are there more dogs on this route that are not used to bicyclists, etc.) Tune in tomorrow to see how this adventure ends... Same Bat time, same Bat channel.
Please note that we continue to have inconsistent internet and phone service. We post when we can. This causes our posts to be out of order. So please check the date on the post if you would like to read them in order.
We expected today to be wet, very wet. However, luckily for us Mother Nature had not read the weather forecast. We had some light drizzle in the morning and light drizzle near the top of the first peak, but overall the weather was very pleasant all day long, cool and not raining - just about perfect bicycling weather.
The cows in the Big Hole Valley were watching us as we set out.
We had two healthy climbs today to Big Hole Pass at 7360 feet and to Badger Pass at 6760 feet. Luckily for us we were already fairly high and each time the climb was only about a thousand feet up. Neither of the climbs were all that steep for these three experienced pros.
We did thoroughly enjoy the 2 downhill runs from the above 2 peaks. I maxed out at 46 mph for a short period on one downhill and we all enjoyed the 14 mile downhill stretch from Badger Pass to the outskirts of Dillon. I would venture to guess that this downhill was the fastest 14 miles any of the three of us have ever done on a bike. My estimate is that I averaged over 25 mph in that stretch. Gloria here - Bob always wanted me to go over 40 mph downhill. Today I did 42. I yelled out, "Bob, this is for you!"
We didn't stop at any stores, rest stops, or restaurants - mostly because there were none. That may have contributed to the speed of today's ride. However we were all proud of ourselves for completing another ride without a SAG, with all our gear, with no stores along the way, and with no problems.
We did see several interesting devices that we later learned were used in storing hay (Beaver slide hay stackers). Somehow these devices are used to create huge piles of hay.
We also stopped by the road to Bannack State Park. Bannack was the first capitol of the Montana territory.
Tomorrow we have a 48 - 59 mile ride so we plan to get up early...again. We are still discussing the risks and merits of taking an 11 mile back road shortcut recommended by Google maps. (Is it paved or gravel, are there road signs or do we just go by mileage, are there more dogs on this route that are not used to bicyclists, etc.) Tune in tomorrow to see how this adventure ends... Same Bat time, same Bat channel.
Finally catching up with your blogs after a week or so. Seems like you've already had more than your share of adventures. I have to admire your persistence and spirit...all I can say is..glad that we did the portion with good weather! I saw AR in Atlanta and she was lookking forward to meeting up with you all. If I read your schedule right...it should be tomorrow. Bet you will be glad to have a SAG again (but also good to know you can manage independently). Ride On!
ReplyDeleteHi Brent & Deb - thanks for keeping up with us! Yeah...we have much better days when the rain stays away. Although I'm getting stronger every day, I'm still slow.as.hell on the uphills. Just gritting it out🤣 Yes - AR and her friend, Lesa, arrive today. Independence is great, but we missed our SAG and are looking forward to their arrival. We still miss you guys and still want to stop at all the geological views in honor of Deb. You folks ride on as well🚴♀️🚵
DeleteWe love reading these blog posts, and though we're a little bit behind we're with you in spirit. Congratulations, Gloria, on reaching a downhill speed of over 40mph. I know that was a monumental moment for you! (You don't need to make a habit of it, you know...) Sending tons of love and good wishes. x o Peggy and Grahame
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