In the car on the way to the trailhead, the car computer is alternating
between 34 and ICE. Hmmm... I never noticed that before. When I
arrive at the Lebanon State Forest (Ba..na Trail, left blank
intentionally) the temp is 32 and falling fast but the moon is oh so
full. I take one final feel of the heated seats (best option I ever
got) and gear up. For those who have been asking about cold weather
riding, I am wearing voler bike shorts and have them covered with
UnderArmor tights. My socks are LLBean waterproof light wool wicking
thermal socks, which are no thicker than a normal bike sock. On top I
have an Under Armor mock turtle, Azonic LS DH jersey, and a voler
thermal vest. My head is covered with an Under Armor Beanie and I am
using Pearl Uzumi winter riding gloves with wicking wool liners.
Needless to say, I am nice and toastie! Enough with the fashion show
and onto the ride.
Nothing new here. It's the same trail we've riden at night dozens of
times. By now it's like the bike is on a rail. Sometimes it's so easy,
one gets a bit cocky. Kurt brought his new Fetish Cycle hardtail that
he built up for fun for a spin. I noticed that his BB was real low
(read: Slalom low). This time a log would claim him. I was right
behind as the slow motion button was pressed and he went OTB. I slam on
the brakes stopping just short of his rear wheel and join him on the ground.
Laughing finished, the pack takes some "new to us" old motocross trail
that has been partially grown over. Some great whoop-dee-doos, and real
tight tree riding. This will be a great detour from the "hiker" trail
if we can ever find a way to hook it all up.
We are hammering tonight! I'm sticking with the front pack until the
first few sets of washed out roots. I'm breathing alittle heavy at this
point, but I gear up and double time it to the front pack again. We
reach the bridges (aka boardwalk) which are more slippery than usual.
After some debating, we decide that we want to see the lake (Pakim
Pond). So over the planks and I think everyone made it. I don't really
know, because I never looked back. With Jay in front and even with him
not feeling well, it's still an effort to keep him in my sights.
We reach the pond, make a little ruckus and then hammer back to the car.
I would have to say this was the fastest ride I have ever done in the
pines, but it felt good. The temp now reads 26, but the heated seats
take all the chill away.
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o-o-o-o Ride-A-Lot o-o-o-o
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