Life On A B-I7

Today I’m happy to report: I did my first major climb, 6% grade for 1 mile. I did it on the big chain-ring upfront. That can only mean one thing, my legs are starting to get stronger. I’m running a double in the front. I’ve had to use the little guy consistently up to this point. The next climb, a 4% grade for about a mile, forced me to use the little guy. That reminded me of a valuable lesson; just because you take one step forward, doesn’t mean you will never take another step back.

I’m starting to feel more comfortable on the bicycle. Seat, knees, ankles, shoulders, arms, stomach, they all have to work together. They are starting to figure each other out. More and more often, I’m reminded how joyful travel by bicycle is.

For those of you planning to make this ride (why not?) there is a gem of a campsite just off the road at Mile Post 51. There’s even an outdoor toilet provided by the Forest Service.

I saw a couple standing on a ledge looking out at the view of the lake so I stopped and asked them if they would like me to take their picture. They said if I didn’t mind. I said sure. I climbed up to the ledge with them and took their photo. We got to chatting and it turns out they were a nice couple from Louisiana. They were headed for Spokane, Washington. I told them Spokane was a cool town. I told them I know some good people there so I wasn’t kidding them. We wished each other well and they headed West and I headed East.

Before rolling into Rexford I spotted an eagles nest. One bird sitting in the nest, probably on eggs or hatchlings, another bird perched over the nest watching things, with dare I say it, an eagle eye…

I will often blow-by sights like this. The sound of this one captured my attention so I pulled over to have a look. I was rewarded with this view.

One of the best things about being on the road is meeting new friends.