I apologize for the sketchy posts covering the last week of riding. As the week wore on, our longest riding week of the event, I found it difficult to stay on top of my journal. 654 miles of cycling and several nights of poor sleep only contributed to my growing fatigue. In fact, at our Coal City camp, I seriously wondered how I was going to continue on the following day – very uncharacteristic of me!
Much of the riding from near Madison to Valparaiso blurred into a boring sameness; fields of corn and soy beans and just to mix it up a bit, fields of soy beans and corn!
Sunday, July 27, 2008
July 26, 2008 Coal City, IL to Valparaiso, IN 82 miles (85)
Campers at Coal City partied late into the night; drinking, arguing, and fighting until well past 2 am! Their revelry did not disturb me too much but other Big Riders were. To get even some Riders began yelling as they broke camp. I doubt that the locals heard any of our noise due to their inebriated state and the noise of the air conditioners on their trailers.
Our remaining miles in Illinois were uneventful, more corn and soy beans, until a loud boom punctuated the quiet morning. My front tire blew out…fourth flat of the trip! Bummer. I assured Doug and Darrel that I was okay and they rode on. While fixing my flat many other Big Riders passed by, each one asking if I needed any help. We are all watching out for one another.
The transition into Indiana was marked by a sign painted on the road and we all stopped for the obligatory pictures. In a few short miles we were all in agreement – we hate Indiana! Terrible road conditions coupled with construction and high traffic counts made our remaining miles to Valparaiso very nerve wracking!
Joan and Nate met several of us about 10 miles from Valpo and the treats served out of the back of the truck helped brighten our moods. At Valparaiso University Joan had a chance to meet more of the Riders as well as Doug’s family. Doug and I may be in trouble now that our wives have met!
Our remaining miles in Illinois were uneventful, more corn and soy beans, until a loud boom punctuated the quiet morning. My front tire blew out…fourth flat of the trip! Bummer. I assured Doug and Darrel that I was okay and they rode on. While fixing my flat many other Big Riders passed by, each one asking if I needed any help. We are all watching out for one another.
The transition into Indiana was marked by a sign painted on the road and we all stopped for the obligatory pictures. In a few short miles we were all in agreement – we hate Indiana! Terrible road conditions coupled with construction and high traffic counts made our remaining miles to Valparaiso very nerve wracking!
Joan and Nate met several of us about 10 miles from Valpo and the treats served out of the back of the truck helped brighten our moods. At Valparaiso University Joan had a chance to meet more of the Riders as well as Doug’s family. Doug and I may be in trouble now that our wives have met!
July 25, 2008 Belvidere to Coal City, IL 104 miles (110)
After spending the night at home, which was a welcomed change, Joan and I got up at 4 am to get back to the ride. I could have used 2 or 3 more hours of sleep! We brought treats from Rolling Donuts for the Riders – the donuts disappeared in record time!
Today marks a major transition in the ride for me. Up to now I’ve been riding ever closer to home but once our route passes Northern Illinois University (my alma mater), I’ll be riding away from home.
The roads of DeKalb County bring back memories for these are the very same roads I trained on 30+ years ago while I was a student at NIU. Most things out here have not changed much at all with one noticeable exception. When I used to ride out here farm dogs were a constant threat but now it seems that every farm has a fence to contain their dogs. What a wonderful change!
The high point of the day was the stop for our second breakfast in Malta. Per usual, two bikes parked outside a local café attracted more, which attracted more, and soon a large group of riders were eating, laughing, and sharing stories from the road. All while locals stared at the strangers in bright colors and spandex that had invaded their town.
Greg, who did a solo cross country tour years ago, his wife, Erin, and daughter, Julia, were kind enough to visit me at Coal City. Its always nice to see friendly faces from home! Thanks guys!
After the long rides of the past few days, it was dinner, shower, and then I crawled into my tent. I didn’t change, I didn’t pull out my sleeping bag, I didn’t even inflate my thermarest – I simply placed my exhausted head on my unpacked bags, wondered how I would be able to continue on, and fell fast asleep.
Today’s question – how can the hills (highway overpasses) of Illinois hurt more than the mountains out west?
Today marks a major transition in the ride for me. Up to now I’ve been riding ever closer to home but once our route passes Northern Illinois University (my alma mater), I’ll be riding away from home.
The roads of DeKalb County bring back memories for these are the very same roads I trained on 30+ years ago while I was a student at NIU. Most things out here have not changed much at all with one noticeable exception. When I used to ride out here farm dogs were a constant threat but now it seems that every farm has a fence to contain their dogs. What a wonderful change!
The high point of the day was the stop for our second breakfast in Malta. Per usual, two bikes parked outside a local café attracted more, which attracted more, and soon a large group of riders were eating, laughing, and sharing stories from the road. All while locals stared at the strangers in bright colors and spandex that had invaded their town.
Greg, who did a solo cross country tour years ago, his wife, Erin, and daughter, Julia, were kind enough to visit me at Coal City. Its always nice to see friendly faces from home! Thanks guys!
After the long rides of the past few days, it was dinner, shower, and then I crawled into my tent. I didn’t change, I didn’t pull out my sleeping bag, I didn’t even inflate my thermarest – I simply placed my exhausted head on my unpacked bags, wondered how I would be able to continue on, and fell fast asleep.
Today’s question – how can the hills (highway overpasses) of Illinois hurt more than the mountains out west?
July 24, 2008 Madison, WI to Belvidere, IL 83 miles (103)
Scott rode out with Doug, Ruben, and me. Our first miles were fairly slow allowing conversation between the three of us. It turns out that Scott and Doug, who both live in Portland, OR, will be joined by Ruben this fall. Ruben is going to attend Louis and Clark University which is located in Portland. It is a small world.
At about mile 15 the conversation ended and the ride for survival began. Scott, with his fresh legs, pulled a group of us (Ruben, Ed, Austin, and me) for the next 90 miles. We all grabbed his wheel, drafted, and hung on for dear life! The miles flew by, no pictures were taken (the scenery was mundane, at best), and stops were few. We crossed into Illinois (state #8), rode through South Beloit and into the fields beyond. At one point we needed water and food but there was none to be found so we pressed on – until Austin noticed a sign for a golf course. Where there is a golf course, there has to be a club house, where there is a club house there has to be water, food, and air conditioning. We found our oasis, got our food and drinks, and when I went to pay for our refreshments the manager of the club picked up the tab!
About 5 miles from Outdoor World, at a sharp bend in the road, we saw a flash of orange ahead. Once at the bend Ed shouted “beer!” Sure enough, there on the shoulder were four, ice cold, cans of MGD! We stopped and then saw my truck with Joan waving to us, parked a short way up the road. She had water, Gatorade, chips and dip, as well as an assortment of candy to get us through the remaining few miles.
After the ride, Joan, Scott, and I left the others and headed back to Elgin. We dropped Scott off at his sister’s house, thanked him for a great ride, and proceeded home for steak, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, a visit with family and then sleep.
At about mile 15 the conversation ended and the ride for survival began. Scott, with his fresh legs, pulled a group of us (Ruben, Ed, Austin, and me) for the next 90 miles. We all grabbed his wheel, drafted, and hung on for dear life! The miles flew by, no pictures were taken (the scenery was mundane, at best), and stops were few. We crossed into Illinois (state #8), rode through South Beloit and into the fields beyond. At one point we needed water and food but there was none to be found so we pressed on – until Austin noticed a sign for a golf course. Where there is a golf course, there has to be a club house, where there is a club house there has to be water, food, and air conditioning. We found our oasis, got our food and drinks, and when I went to pay for our refreshments the manager of the club picked up the tab!
About 5 miles from Outdoor World, at a sharp bend in the road, we saw a flash of orange ahead. Once at the bend Ed shouted “beer!” Sure enough, there on the shoulder were four, ice cold, cans of MGD! We stopped and then saw my truck with Joan waving to us, parked a short way up the road. She had water, Gatorade, chips and dip, as well as an assortment of candy to get us through the remaining few miles.
After the ride, Joan, Scott, and I left the others and headed back to Elgin. We dropped Scott off at his sister’s house, thanked him for a great ride, and proceeded home for steak, baked potatoes, corn on the cob, a visit with family and then sleep.
July 23, 2008 Viroqua to Madison, WI 100 miles (111)
Too much celebrating of Doug’s birthday guaranteed that today would be a LONG one! It was!
Ruben, Doug, and I started the day with breakfast at a diner across from camp. We were the last ones to get started today. Riding back through camp (Doug thought he left his birthday card there) we noticed a bit of commotion, apparently there will be a change in ride support personnel. Can’t say it was totally unexpected…
The first 25 miles were through some of the prettiest countryside so far; hilly, green, quaint, well maintained farms
Ruben, Doug, and I started the day with breakfast at a diner across from camp. We were the last ones to get started today. Riding back through camp (Doug thought he left his birthday card there) we noticed a bit of commotion, apparently there will be a change in ride support personnel. Can’t say it was totally unexpected…
The first 25 miles were through some of the prettiest countryside so far; hilly, green, quaint, well maintained farms
July 21, 2008 Owatonna to Winona, MN 89 miles (103)
Eric’s 21st birthday!
Called Eric at 6:15 am to wish him a Happy 21st Birthday. I wasn’t the first to do so – his buddy, Mike, awoke him at 4 am!
Once again, Route 14, was the road of choice…only now it is rather busy. Semis, cars, pick-ups, some of whom don’t like to share the pavement with bicycles, passed dangerously close. To add to the challenge, the shoulder was in very poor shape.
Just before winding our way through Rochester, MN, home of Mayo Clinic, we were treated with a food and water stop hosted by four of last year’s Big Riders. Ben, Ane, Tom and Liz treated us to all the things they looked forward to at rest stops. Chairs, a wide assortment of fruit, coffee, donuts, fresh-baked cookies covered the table. What a welcomed sight! THANKS GUYS!
On our way through a residential neighborhood in Rochester we noticed two little kids selling lemonade. Just had to stop which made their day! The little girl exclaimed to her slightly older brother “And Mom said we wouldn’t have any customers and now we have thousands!”
Shortly after Rochester I decided to roll through the final checkpoint. From that point on I rode alone – almost 40 miles. With a tailwind and level to slightly rolling terrain the miles rolled by quickly.
Thankfully Becky, Mike and their son, Alex, saved me from a dinner of boiled hot dogs and cold, soggy tater tots
Called Eric at 6:15 am to wish him a Happy 21st Birthday. I wasn’t the first to do so – his buddy, Mike, awoke him at 4 am!
Once again, Route 14, was the road of choice…only now it is rather busy. Semis, cars, pick-ups, some of whom don’t like to share the pavement with bicycles, passed dangerously close. To add to the challenge, the shoulder was in very poor shape.
Just before winding our way through Rochester, MN, home of Mayo Clinic, we were treated with a food and water stop hosted by four of last year’s Big Riders. Ben, Ane, Tom and Liz treated us to all the things they looked forward to at rest stops. Chairs, a wide assortment of fruit, coffee, donuts, fresh-baked cookies covered the table. What a welcomed sight! THANKS GUYS!
On our way through a residential neighborhood in Rochester we noticed two little kids selling lemonade. Just had to stop which made their day! The little girl exclaimed to her slightly older brother “And Mom said we wouldn’t have any customers and now we have thousands!”
Shortly after Rochester I decided to roll through the final checkpoint. From that point on I rode alone – almost 40 miles. With a tailwind and level to slightly rolling terrain the miles rolled by quickly.
Thankfully Becky, Mike and their son, Alex, saved me from a dinner of boiled hot dogs and cold, soggy tater tots
July 20, 2008 New Ulm to Owatonna, MN 72 miles (73)
Almost felt like we were cheating today – the ride was fast and over even before Mother Nature could cook us!
We started out in a fog that just got heavier as we went along. Riders that passed were swallowed up and disappeared! Didn’t have to drink at all – just licked the condensation that formed on my arms as I rolled along.
The scenery and terrain were unspectacular – I think…with the fog it was hard to tell. The only thing we could do was ride. Traffic is getting heavier now that we are approaching more populated areas. Makes me long for those long, unbroken stretches through Montana and South Dakota where we would pedal for hours and see maybe one or two cars. Along with the increased traffic is a noticeable increase in drivers who are a bit irritated sharing the road with us. We’ll deal with it and just continue on.
Ruben and I had some fun making other riders work to try to catch us and ended up in camp at the fairgrounds just after noon. Eventually Doug, Tony and I grabbed a bite to eat and came back to camp and ate dinner – a great meal cooked by Daniel. Vern, who rode the ride last year, and his wife, Karen, welcomed us to their town and contributed fresh corn on the cob for dinner. What great people!
We started out in a fog that just got heavier as we went along. Riders that passed were swallowed up and disappeared! Didn’t have to drink at all – just licked the condensation that formed on my arms as I rolled along.
The scenery and terrain were unspectacular – I think…with the fog it was hard to tell. The only thing we could do was ride. Traffic is getting heavier now that we are approaching more populated areas. Makes me long for those long, unbroken stretches through Montana and South Dakota where we would pedal for hours and see maybe one or two cars. Along with the increased traffic is a noticeable increase in drivers who are a bit irritated sharing the road with us. We’ll deal with it and just continue on.
Ruben and I had some fun making other riders work to try to catch us and ended up in camp at the fairgrounds just after noon. Eventually Doug, Tony and I grabbed a bite to eat and came back to camp and ate dinner – a great meal cooked by Daniel. Vern, who rode the ride last year, and his wife, Karen, welcomed us to their town and contributed fresh corn on the cob for dinner. What great people!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Another Photo Update
Bored riders do strange things!
Two locals wish Chad a happy 21st birthday.
Waiting for the gear truck.
Steph's bike likes to climb vending machines.
Bike cleaning and repair have become part of our daily routine.
Wind turbine blades are REALLY BIG!
Entering Minnesota - State #6
Saturday, July 19, 2008
July 19, 2008 New Ulm, MN
Rest day. Luckily I did my laundry last night so today I explored the town, cleaned up my bike and caught up on my blog. New Ulm is a quaint town with a strong German heritage – over 80% of the population is German!
July 18, 2008 Tyler to New Ulm, MN 86 miles (88)
Nothing different to start another day…wake up, clean up, pack up, eat up, load up (the truck), saddle up and ride out. We continue to ride Route 14 east which we’ve done for the last three and a half days. This ribbon of asphalt is yet another connection to home because it runs through my hometown of Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Based on the map, I anticipate riding 14 for at least another day or two.
Some of the riders have turned the Big Ride into the BRTDQ (Big Ride Tour of Dairy Queens). It seems that every sizeable town has its own DQ and riders cannot pass by with out stopping in. I have fallen prey to the temptation several times; my personal weakness is a root beer float!
Again towns fly by: Florence (pop. 61), Balaton, Tracy (named after one of our riders?), Walnut Grove (childhood home of Laura Engels Wilder), Revere, Lamberton, Springfield, Cobden (pop. 61), Sleepy Eye (How’d it get that name?) and finally New Ulm.
We are staying at Martin Luther College and pranks continue…Stephanie’s bike found its way to the top of vending machines.
Based on the map, I anticipate riding 14 for at least another day or two.
Some of the riders have turned the Big Ride into the BRTDQ (Big Ride Tour of Dairy Queens). It seems that every sizeable town has its own DQ and riders cannot pass by with out stopping in. I have fallen prey to the temptation several times; my personal weakness is a root beer float!
Again towns fly by: Florence (pop. 61), Balaton, Tracy (named after one of our riders?), Walnut Grove (childhood home of Laura Engels Wilder), Revere, Lamberton, Springfield, Cobden (pop. 61), Sleepy Eye (How’d it get that name?) and finally New Ulm.
We are staying at Martin Luther College and pranks continue…Stephanie’s bike found its way to the top of vending machines.
July 17, 2008 De Smet, SD to Tyler, MN 78 miles (80)
I have to backtrack to last night…a police officer stopped by to tell us that a major storm was bearing down on us -70 mph winds, heavy rains, and large hail was expected. With the ominous rumble of thunder and lightning approaching, his warning seemed well founded. The nighttime storm hit but was not as serious as what some of the riders had to deal with in the morning…
As I awoke thunder was rumbling, with occasional flashes of lightning, in the westward sky. Another storm was quickly bearing down upon us. Frenzied activity was obvious throughout the camp; no one wanted to be in the middle of breaking camp when the storm struck.
Breakfast was being served at the Catholic Church one block from camp. Several riders and I were enjoying our morning meal when the skies opened up. A rain of biblical proportion drenched everyone who was still packing – about half of the riders. We waited until the bulk of the storm had passed to finish loading the truck and begin the day’s ride.
Rain accompanied us for the first two hours of the ride. The slow soaking of the on-again off-again drizzle was not too bad. The worst part of the wet conditions was the painful “power washing” we got as trucks passed at 60 mph, spraying us with a mixture of water and gravel picked up from the road. Maybe it wasn’t so much a “power washing” as it was a “sand blasting”! Eventually the rain stopped, the roads dried, and the skies cleared making way for another fine ride.
Just outside of Brookings, Kathleen got a flat, which I helped her repair. This caused me to loose touch with some of the riders I had been with so for the next 15 miles it was just the road and me. Eventually I caught Barb and we finished the ride together. Along the way we marveled at an expansive wind farm that bordered the road for over 11 miles. With turbine blades revolving, and several hundred towers visible, it seemed like something out of another world. We also crossed onto state number six: Minnesota.
Our group camped outside Tyler high school, home of the Knights, which was close enough to town that we could walk to dinner.
One major change today – I feel like I’m home! The whole make-up of the land is familiar. Trees, corn, soybeans, farms, towns every 6 to 10 miles apart, the flat to slightly rolling terrain, the humidity, even the condition of the roads has a comfortable, back home, feel to it.
As I awoke thunder was rumbling, with occasional flashes of lightning, in the westward sky. Another storm was quickly bearing down upon us. Frenzied activity was obvious throughout the camp; no one wanted to be in the middle of breaking camp when the storm struck.
Breakfast was being served at the Catholic Church one block from camp. Several riders and I were enjoying our morning meal when the skies opened up. A rain of biblical proportion drenched everyone who was still packing – about half of the riders. We waited until the bulk of the storm had passed to finish loading the truck and begin the day’s ride.
Rain accompanied us for the first two hours of the ride. The slow soaking of the on-again off-again drizzle was not too bad. The worst part of the wet conditions was the painful “power washing” we got as trucks passed at 60 mph, spraying us with a mixture of water and gravel picked up from the road. Maybe it wasn’t so much a “power washing” as it was a “sand blasting”! Eventually the rain stopped, the roads dried, and the skies cleared making way for another fine ride.
Just outside of Brookings, Kathleen got a flat, which I helped her repair. This caused me to loose touch with some of the riders I had been with so for the next 15 miles it was just the road and me. Eventually I caught Barb and we finished the ride together. Along the way we marveled at an expansive wind farm that bordered the road for over 11 miles. With turbine blades revolving, and several hundred towers visible, it seemed like something out of another world. We also crossed onto state number six: Minnesota.
Our group camped outside Tyler high school, home of the Knights, which was close enough to town that we could walk to dinner.
One major change today – I feel like I’m home! The whole make-up of the land is familiar. Trees, corn, soybeans, farms, towns every 6 to 10 miles apart, the flat to slightly rolling terrain, the humidity, even the condition of the roads has a comfortable, back home, feel to it.
July 16, 2008 Miller to De Smet, SD 77 miles (79)
Ugh…morning already! Actually in spite of last night’s celebration everyone seems ready to go. Like yesterday the scenery was not inspiring but the level terrain made biking, especially with others, fun. Road construction through the town of Wosley presented a challenge. Brendan, on his mountain bike, found the gravel and rough road to his liking. Bob, Brendan, Tony, Patty, DeWayne and I stopped in Huron for and early lunch – we never seem to stop eating! By the way, Huron marks the halfway point of our journey ONLY 1,650 MORE MILES TO PEDAL!
Arriving in De Smet, home of the Laura Ingalls Wilder homestead, we set up camp in the nicest town park imaginable, shady, clean bathrooms complete with showers, and electricity. As an added bonus it is only a short walk to the Dairy Queen which also has wireless access!
Arriving in De Smet, home of the Laura Ingalls Wilder homestead, we set up camp in the nicest town park imaginable, shady, clean bathrooms complete with showers, and electricity. As an added bonus it is only a short walk to the Dairy Queen which also has wireless access!
July 15, 2008 Pierre to Miller, SD 74 miles (78)
Breakfast at the hotel beats instant oatmeal and stale bagels anytime! Those of us at the hotel enjoyed the complimentary continental breakfast before venturing out to the park. Leaving Pierre involved yet another climb; long, steady, and drawn out. Just enough of an incline to cause pain and discomfort early in the morning. Once on top everything changed – the countryside flattened out1 I felt like I was back in Illinois!
Riding with Tony and Brendan, the towns (Blunt, Harrold, Holabird, Highmore, Ree Heights) and the miles flew by. There was no spectacular scenery, just fields of wheat, sunflowers, and corn from roadside to the horizon.
Our destination in Miller was the high school. Some riders opted to sleep in the school while others set up tents outside. Due to some issues with renewing the rental agreement with the sag vehicles, Daniel was the only one supporting riders along the route. Because of this he did not have the time to cook for us so Taylor’s restaurant in town was enlisted to feed us. The sirloin tips ($8.95, including soup and salad bar) were excellent!
We had two riders celebrating birthdays today. Chad turned 21 and Janet…well lets just say she turned somewhat older! Taylor’s was the perfect spot to mix it up with some locals (Bobby Hanks, no relation to Tom, and three of his friends) while Chad was initiated with beer and shots. We all had a great time but morning will come too soon!
Riding with Tony and Brendan, the towns (Blunt, Harrold, Holabird, Highmore, Ree Heights) and the miles flew by. There was no spectacular scenery, just fields of wheat, sunflowers, and corn from roadside to the horizon.
Our destination in Miller was the high school. Some riders opted to sleep in the school while others set up tents outside. Due to some issues with renewing the rental agreement with the sag vehicles, Daniel was the only one supporting riders along the route. Because of this he did not have the time to cook for us so Taylor’s restaurant in town was enlisted to feed us. The sirloin tips ($8.95, including soup and salad bar) were excellent!
We had two riders celebrating birthdays today. Chad turned 21 and Janet…well lets just say she turned somewhat older! Taylor’s was the perfect spot to mix it up with some locals (Bobby Hanks, no relation to Tom, and three of his friends) while Chad was initiated with beer and shots. We all had a great time but morning will come too soon!
July 14, 2008 Kadoka to Pierre, SD 95 miles (100)
Packed up and loaded the truck early (6am) in order to be at breakfast at the H&H diner. The food was excellent, the staff was congenial, and everyone appeared anxious to begin the ride. 95 miles between here and our destination…
We continued to parallel Interstate 90 eastward for 20 miles before heading north for another 20. As for the scenery, well, what can I say???? Rolling hills, I mean REALLY ROLLING HILLS! South Dakota is not flat. When at the top of any of the hills we climbed you could see vast nothingness for miles. We’ve been told by several locals that due to a heavier than normal amount of rain things are much greener than normal.
Temperatures rose, the scenery didn’t change and still we rode on (like we had a choice). One interesting thing that Doug and I found was a sign that directed our attention to wagon wheel ruts that were still visible from the Deadwood stage coach trail – even after 140 years!
Arriving in Pierre, the state capital, we located the camp for the night (a city park along the Missouri River) and saw a sign warning us to beware of “homeless and panhandlers”. Not the welcoming we were hoping for… Many of us opted for a local hotel room; myself included.
(We are now in the Central Time Zone – I feel much more at home.)
We continued to parallel Interstate 90 eastward for 20 miles before heading north for another 20. As for the scenery, well, what can I say???? Rolling hills, I mean REALLY ROLLING HILLS! South Dakota is not flat. When at the top of any of the hills we climbed you could see vast nothingness for miles. We’ve been told by several locals that due to a heavier than normal amount of rain things are much greener than normal.
Temperatures rose, the scenery didn’t change and still we rode on (like we had a choice). One interesting thing that Doug and I found was a sign that directed our attention to wagon wheel ruts that were still visible from the Deadwood stage coach trail – even after 140 years!
Arriving in Pierre, the state capital, we located the camp for the night (a city park along the Missouri River) and saw a sign warning us to beware of “homeless and panhandlers”. Not the welcoming we were hoping for… Many of us opted for a local hotel room; myself included.
(We are now in the Central Time Zone – I feel much more at home.)
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Billings Montana News
Well, Jim was interviewed by Billings Montana Channel 8 News so here's the link to the story...
'Big Ride' Stops in Billings
Monday, July 14, 2008
July 13, 2008 Rapid City to Kadoka, SD 101 miles (105)
What a day! We rolled out of Rapid City at 7am and very soon found ourselves in (or on) a train of sorts.
Of all people, Simon, was at the front of a pace line that eventually numbered 18 riders. We were very content to allow him to pull us along at over 20 mph for ten miles! All in all, with some additional assistance we covered the first 30 miles averaging over 20 miles per hour. At one point, Nick, our mechanic, rolled ahead of the pace line in the truck taunting us to get behind him. 100 yards separated us from him – I jumped and closed the gap but the energy expended to catch him didn’t allow me to stick with him for long! It was great fun trying….
The Badlands were stark and impressive; like touring another planet. Scenic (not much there) and Interior (an unfriendly bar and a friendly gas station) were the only inhabited places we saw for over 30 miles. We stopped for lunch at the Cedar Pass Lodge and while we were there I experienced a déjà vu moment – we visited Cedar Pass and stayed at the nearby camp site many years ago! In fact, I made Brad, Tim, and Eric, (ages 11, 10, and 7 at the time) ride up this very same pass. Sorry boys!
Exiting the Badlands, the route paralleled I-90 for the last 12 miles into Kadoka. The service road we were on was the same one I had watched pass by when we drove this route two years ago. During that trip I dreamed that someday I’d have the chance to ride a road like that – and NOW HERE I AM!
By the way, Kadoka is home to the world’s friendliest people! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Of all people, Simon, was at the front of a pace line that eventually numbered 18 riders. We were very content to allow him to pull us along at over 20 mph for ten miles! All in all, with some additional assistance we covered the first 30 miles averaging over 20 miles per hour. At one point, Nick, our mechanic, rolled ahead of the pace line in the truck taunting us to get behind him. 100 yards separated us from him – I jumped and closed the gap but the energy expended to catch him didn’t allow me to stick with him for long! It was great fun trying….
The Badlands were stark and impressive; like touring another planet. Scenic (not much there) and Interior (an unfriendly bar and a friendly gas station) were the only inhabited places we saw for over 30 miles. We stopped for lunch at the Cedar Pass Lodge and while we were there I experienced a déjà vu moment – we visited Cedar Pass and stayed at the nearby camp site many years ago! In fact, I made Brad, Tim, and Eric, (ages 11, 10, and 7 at the time) ride up this very same pass. Sorry boys!
Exiting the Badlands, the route paralleled I-90 for the last 12 miles into Kadoka. The service road we were on was the same one I had watched pass by when we drove this route two years ago. During that trip I dreamed that someday I’d have the chance to ride a road like that – and NOW HERE I AM!
By the way, Kadoka is home to the world’s friendliest people! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
July 12, 2008 Rapid City, SD
I became Doug’s adopted son for the day. Doug’s family met up with him last night and will be shadowing the Big Ride for the remainder of the trip. What a great family! We did all of the usual tourist stuff – Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Sylvan Lake, Needles Highway, and Custer Park. We finished up with pizza at Hermosa, the same place we stopped at before slugging it out with the monstrous headwinds of yesterday.
July 11, 2008 Newcastle, WY to Rapid City, SD 81 miles (83)
The usual routine unfolds morning after morning….wake up, clean up, pack up, eat up, load up (the truck), and then mount up.
The breakfast provided by the Newcastle Senior Center residents was a great way to start the day. Receiving our route sheets we got on the bikes looking forward to entering the fifth state, South Dakota, on our journey east. Temperatures were very comfortable (mid-70’s) and the skies were clear but…high wind warnings were posted for later in the day (I’ll get to that a bit further on).
Riding through the Black Hills was fantastic; dramatic rock out-croppings, pine covered hillsides, fragrant scent of wild flowers, and light traffic made this portion of the ride one of the most enjoyable yet! I remember driving these very same roads just two years ago with Joan and Nate hoping that someday I’d be able to bicycle them and here I am! Pedaling the switchbacks up to Jewel Cave, coasting wildly downhill, taking it all in and relishing every mile of it. Once we arrived in Custer, Liz, Doug, Tony, and I checked in with Amy and Mark (two of the Big Ride support crew) and then found a café for our second breakfast. Refueled, we headed out.
Doug and I stopped at a rock shop, looked at the crystals, fossils, and mineral samples before cycling east on 16A. After a 10 mile twisting, downhill the road flattened out and the WINDS PICKED UP! Initially, because we were heading east, the winds were primarily a cross wind, slowing our progress and forcing us to lean left just to stay upright. We knew we were going to be in trouble due to the fact that just up the road, at route 79, we would be turning north, riding twenty miles directly into a steady 35 mph gale with gusts over 50 mph! Fun?! ugh!
To steel our nerves and ensure we were in the right frame of mind for the impending challenge, Doug suggested that we stop at a nearby pizza joint for a beer, to which I quickly agreed. Sam joined us for a soda. We were all surprised to see Tony, one of the strongest riders, come back (he had already checked out the strength of the wind), walk in to the restaurant and declare “I’m not riding into that wind alone!” Tony joined us for a beer too.
The three of us pace lined into the wind, picking up Simon along the way, and made it into Rapid City. None of us had ever ridden into a wind that strong!
We are staying at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology for our rest day.
The breakfast provided by the Newcastle Senior Center residents was a great way to start the day. Receiving our route sheets we got on the bikes looking forward to entering the fifth state, South Dakota, on our journey east. Temperatures were very comfortable (mid-70’s) and the skies were clear but…high wind warnings were posted for later in the day (I’ll get to that a bit further on).
Riding through the Black Hills was fantastic; dramatic rock out-croppings, pine covered hillsides, fragrant scent of wild flowers, and light traffic made this portion of the ride one of the most enjoyable yet! I remember driving these very same roads just two years ago with Joan and Nate hoping that someday I’d be able to bicycle them and here I am! Pedaling the switchbacks up to Jewel Cave, coasting wildly downhill, taking it all in and relishing every mile of it. Once we arrived in Custer, Liz, Doug, Tony, and I checked in with Amy and Mark (two of the Big Ride support crew) and then found a café for our second breakfast. Refueled, we headed out.
Doug and I stopped at a rock shop, looked at the crystals, fossils, and mineral samples before cycling east on 16A. After a 10 mile twisting, downhill the road flattened out and the WINDS PICKED UP! Initially, because we were heading east, the winds were primarily a cross wind, slowing our progress and forcing us to lean left just to stay upright. We knew we were going to be in trouble due to the fact that just up the road, at route 79, we would be turning north, riding twenty miles directly into a steady 35 mph gale with gusts over 50 mph! Fun?! ugh!
To steel our nerves and ensure we were in the right frame of mind for the impending challenge, Doug suggested that we stop at a nearby pizza joint for a beer, to which I quickly agreed. Sam joined us for a soda. We were all surprised to see Tony, one of the strongest riders, come back (he had already checked out the strength of the wind), walk in to the restaurant and declare “I’m not riding into that wind alone!” Tony joined us for a beer too.
The three of us pace lined into the wind, picking up Simon along the way, and made it into Rapid City. None of us had ever ridden into a wind that strong!
We are staying at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology for our rest day.
July 10, 2008 Gillette to Newcastle, WY 75 miles (76)
Woke up to find some (three) mischievous elves had saran wrapped and TPed many of the guy’s bicycles together. Must have been pay back for some earlier prank!
We had a fairly late start due to the fatigue of yesterday and the fact that Gillette to Newcastle is only a ride of 76 miles. Notice the word “only”? Our perspective has really become warped; any ride under 80 miles is considered short and presents no concern. 80 to 100 miles is just a normal day’s ride – no big deal. Stretch the daily mileage to over 100 and we then consider it a challenge. Hills and wind may increase the difficulty of the course to be covered but most of us just view the miles as something that HAS to be done.
Cliff, the rider hit by the truck, is back on a bike and once again riding with us. The man is unbelievable; an inspiration for all of us.
I began the ride with Doug. Shortly outside of town we came upon multiple stacks of HUGE tires; another photo opportunity. Turns out the tires form the protective berm of a shooting range and, as luck would have it, the son of the owner stopped by. He invited us in for a tour of the facility which we quickly accepted, now accompanied by Brendan. Doug became the victim for two, absolutely hilarious, practical jokes. The first involved baby rattlers (did I mention we are in rattlesnake country – Diamondbacks being one of the most common samples of roadkill). A small barrel labeled “baby rattlers” was on the floor of the store. Doug asked about it and was told that being early, and somewhat cool, it was probably same to carefully look inside. Doug moved tentatively toward the barrel, carefully pulled back the newspaper covering the mesh top, and STOPPED. There was a huge hole in the mesh screen! When assured the rattlers posed no threat, brave Doug peered in to the barrel…and busted out laughing! There in the barrel were very colorful baby teething rattles!
The second incident involved a caged, ferret/badger hybrid with a bad attitude. You’ll have to talk to Doug for the full story (or check with me later) but let’s just say its good the Doug’s heart is strong!
Continuing on the road, several of us stopped in Moorcroft (mile 27), for an early lunch. The remainder of the ride is a blurr…things like days, miles, locations, and events are beginning to blend together. I did ride with Joe, Ruben, Liz, and Rosie. DeWayne and I finished the final 8 miles, had a bite to eat, before riding the final half mile to the Newcastle Senior Center (I’m old enough to be a resident here).
Some riders are setting up outside, but being soft, I decided to camp on the floor in an air-conditioned room.
We were served dinner and will be served breakfast by the residents of this facility. People here are very outgoing and friendly!
We had a fairly late start due to the fatigue of yesterday and the fact that Gillette to Newcastle is only a ride of 76 miles. Notice the word “only”? Our perspective has really become warped; any ride under 80 miles is considered short and presents no concern. 80 to 100 miles is just a normal day’s ride – no big deal. Stretch the daily mileage to over 100 and we then consider it a challenge. Hills and wind may increase the difficulty of the course to be covered but most of us just view the miles as something that HAS to be done.
Cliff, the rider hit by the truck, is back on a bike and once again riding with us. The man is unbelievable; an inspiration for all of us.
I began the ride with Doug. Shortly outside of town we came upon multiple stacks of HUGE tires; another photo opportunity. Turns out the tires form the protective berm of a shooting range and, as luck would have it, the son of the owner stopped by. He invited us in for a tour of the facility which we quickly accepted, now accompanied by Brendan. Doug became the victim for two, absolutely hilarious, practical jokes. The first involved baby rattlers (did I mention we are in rattlesnake country – Diamondbacks being one of the most common samples of roadkill). A small barrel labeled “baby rattlers” was on the floor of the store. Doug asked about it and was told that being early, and somewhat cool, it was probably same to carefully look inside. Doug moved tentatively toward the barrel, carefully pulled back the newspaper covering the mesh top, and STOPPED. There was a huge hole in the mesh screen! When assured the rattlers posed no threat, brave Doug peered in to the barrel…and busted out laughing! There in the barrel were very colorful baby teething rattles!
The second incident involved a caged, ferret/badger hybrid with a bad attitude. You’ll have to talk to Doug for the full story (or check with me later) but let’s just say its good the Doug’s heart is strong!
Continuing on the road, several of us stopped in Moorcroft (mile 27), for an early lunch. The remainder of the ride is a blurr…things like days, miles, locations, and events are beginning to blend together. I did ride with Joe, Ruben, Liz, and Rosie. DeWayne and I finished the final 8 miles, had a bite to eat, before riding the final half mile to the Newcastle Senior Center (I’m old enough to be a resident here).
Some riders are setting up outside, but being soft, I decided to camp on the floor in an air-conditioned room.
We were served dinner and will be served breakfast by the residents of this facility. People here are very outgoing and friendly!
July 9, 2008 Sheridan to Gillette, WY 109 miles (111)
Up and out early Breakfast at McDonalds Cliff may rejoin the ride Stopped at Ucross art colony Rode with Doug and Joe first half of the ride No services for 70 miles Pink roads Uphill, uphill, uphill into the wind paired up with Ruben Camped in city park Lots of road noise Great meal at local restaurant (prime rib) hot hot hot Interesting inter-group dynamics continue to develop Began roadkill across America pictures
Sorry, due to the length of the ride and the HEAT the above, disjointed, summary will have to do!
Sorry, due to the length of the ride and the HEAT the above, disjointed, summary will have to do!
July 8, 2008 Hardin, MT to Sheridan, WY 84 miles (86)
Weather was great, skies were clear as we left Hardin. Doug and I paired up and as we left town noticed a museum off to the left, we pulled in and were quite impressed with the assembled collection of old buildings, many of which had been moved from their original locations, and assorted paraphernalia from years gone by. Covering many miles together allows riders to really get to know each other; Doug and I are no exception. The miles go by quicker when there is conversation.
Today’s ride was marred by a rather upsetting event. Our oldest rider, Cliff, was hit by a truck. While the particulars of the incident are still unclear, Cliff is okay, albeit, shaken, but his new bike is destroyed. It seems that he ejected off towards the shoulder while his carbon fiber bicycle was crushed under the wheels of the truck. We all hope that Cliff, after taking a short break, will rejoin the ride. This event really points how vulnerable we all are!
Night’s camp was at the Sheridan KOA. The kids on the trip are having a great time; lots of laughing, teasing, and listening to music. The night ended with a group meeting to discuss different ideas on departure times for daily rides.
Today’s ride was marred by a rather upsetting event. Our oldest rider, Cliff, was hit by a truck. While the particulars of the incident are still unclear, Cliff is okay, albeit, shaken, but his new bike is destroyed. It seems that he ejected off towards the shoulder while his carbon fiber bicycle was crushed under the wheels of the truck. We all hope that Cliff, after taking a short break, will rejoin the ride. This event really points how vulnerable we all are!
Night’s camp was at the Sheridan KOA. The kids on the trip are having a great time; lots of laughing, teasing, and listening to music. The night ended with a group meeting to discuss different ideas on departure times for daily rides.
July 7, 2008 Billings to Hardin, MT 54 miles (56)
Okay, wrong….except for a four hundred foot climb early in the ride today’s route was fairly flat with a brisk tailwind. Leaving Billings with DeWayne and Patty, we wound our way through the busy streets and out on to 87 east where the traffic dropped dramatically. In fact over the next three hours we probably didn’t encounter move than a dozen cars. It was cycling heaven! Our ride was briefly interrupted twice; once to observe a rather large rattlesnake warming itself on the pavement (I moved it off the road by squirting it with my water bottle) and then to assist a truck driver who lost a trailer while trying to avoid an oncoming car.
Only one scheduled water stop was set up due to the limited mileage. When Liz attempted to find some privacy to relieve herself near the only trees to be found –she wasn’t alone. A deer carcass was right next to her selected site. Smelly, to be sure.
Arriving in Hardin, Bob was able to hook us up with a couple of locals who were willing to drive us to the Little Bighorn Battlefield, only 15 miles away. Walking the grounds on which such a historically significant event took place makes one feel the sense of fear and desperation the U.S. soldiers must have felt as they fought against hopeless odds. Total U.S. losses approximately 260 including General George Armstrong Custer and all of his men. Indian losses were estimated at between 50 to 100. After our return to camp, a shower followed by another excellent meal catered by Beyond Basil closed out the day.
Only one scheduled water stop was set up due to the limited mileage. When Liz attempted to find some privacy to relieve herself near the only trees to be found –she wasn’t alone. A deer carcass was right next to her selected site. Smelly, to be sure.
Arriving in Hardin, Bob was able to hook us up with a couple of locals who were willing to drive us to the Little Bighorn Battlefield, only 15 miles away. Walking the grounds on which such a historically significant event took place makes one feel the sense of fear and desperation the U.S. soldiers must have felt as they fought against hopeless odds. Total U.S. losses approximately 260 including General George Armstrong Custer and all of his men. Indian losses were estimated at between 50 to 100. After our return to camp, a shower followed by another excellent meal catered by Beyond Basil closed out the day.
Friday, July 11, 2008
Photos from the last few days
Pauline, from Canada, signing the sumo.
Happily making PB&J for lunch.
Alaska John and his dog, Squirrel (4200 miles!)
One way to cool off on a 100+ degree day
Crossing into state #4 - Montana!
Our usual camping location: high school football fields
Clowning around at the Continental Divide.
Doug LOVES a clean tent!
The Continental Divide - its all downhill from here!
Patty following closely
Letty celebrating the Fourth of July
Cliff, our oldest rider, resting after a long day.
Somewhere in Montana
Noah, the winner (?), of the July 4th hot dog eating contest
Sunday, July 6, 2008
The Big Ride continues...
I'm sorry I haven't been able to post regularly but WiFi availability has been a bit spotty.
It's amazing how simple life becomes when involved in an adventure like this: wake up, pack, eat, ride, set up camp, eat, sleep and then do it all over again, and again, and again....
The range of scenery is unbelievable, even the stark, barren, dry high prairie has its own attractiveness. And the other riders, each person is unique with their own interesting stories to tell. I'm enjoying it all!
Here are some highlights of the last week...
It's amazing how simple life becomes when involved in an adventure like this: wake up, pack, eat, ride, set up camp, eat, sleep and then do it all over again, and again, and again....
The range of scenery is unbelievable, even the stark, barren, dry high prairie has its own attractiveness. And the other riders, each person is unique with their own interesting stories to tell. I'm enjoying it all!
Here are some highlights of the last week...
July 6, 2008 Billings, MT
“Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my head” (my apologies to the Beatles)….but that is precisely how the day started. Did some laundry and then met with Jim, a former student of mine whom I hadn’t seen in 25+ years. We had a great visit over breakfast and hopefully will keep in touch. As Jim was leaving my wife’s cousin, Bill, and his wife, Mavis, arrived from Powell, WY – a 90 minute drive away. We went out to lunch (food, AGAIN! It seems all I do these days is eat!). Another wonderful visit and now I’m sitting here trying to regain control of my blog.
Tomorrow is a short ride of 54 miles but we’ve learned that short rides usually mean a lot of climbing!
“Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my head” (my apologies to the Beatles)….but that is precisely how the day started. Did some laundry and then met with Jim, a former student of mine whom I hadn’t seen in 25+ years. We had a great visit over breakfast and hopefully will keep in touch. As Jim was leaving my wife’s cousin, Bill, and his wife, Mavis, arrived from Powell, WY – a 90 minute drive away. We went out to lunch (food, AGAIN! It seems all I do these days is eat!). Another wonderful visit and now I’m sitting here trying to regain control of my blog.
Tomorrow is a short ride of 54 miles but we’ve learned that short rides usually mean a lot of climbing!
July 5, 2008 Harlowton to Billings, MT 92 miles (89)
Woke up at 4:45 to the sound of rain on my tent – not a good omen. The thought of riding 92 miles in the rain was NOT enticing. But no fear, sumo power cleared the air. The sumo that my son, Tim, gave me has become a talisman of good (mostly) luck. I am afraid, as are several other riders, that if I remove the sumo from my aero bars, all sorts of ill fortune will accost us.
This morning’s light rain was the result of a weather front moving through which brought with it a change of wind direction. We were pushed eastward for 46 miles by a strong tailwind. Averaging over 20 miles per hour, the pavement quickly rolled under our wheels. Shortly before turning off 12 there was an impressive line of sandstone cliffs on our left. I pointed them out to the rider I was with at the time, distracted he swerved off the road into gravel and went down. Luckily, he survived with minor scrapes and cuts. At Lavina, our route turned south-south east. Leaving highway 12 after almost 200 miles was a bit sad but Billings, and a rest day, were just ahead.
Two TV crews, Channel 2 and 8, were in the parking lot when Barbara and I arrived. Channel 8 interviewed me about the Big Ride. I missed both the 5 and 10 o’clock new shows on which the footage was to air. Oh well!
Dinner was catered by Beyond Basil. Steak, mahi mahi, and grilled tofu, they had it all! Even beer! They will also be providing the same dinner in Hardin, our next stop.
Woke up at 4:45 to the sound of rain on my tent – not a good omen. The thought of riding 92 miles in the rain was NOT enticing. But no fear, sumo power cleared the air. The sumo that my son, Tim, gave me has become a talisman of good (mostly) luck. I am afraid, as are several other riders, that if I remove the sumo from my aero bars, all sorts of ill fortune will accost us.
This morning’s light rain was the result of a weather front moving through which brought with it a change of wind direction. We were pushed eastward for 46 miles by a strong tailwind. Averaging over 20 miles per hour, the pavement quickly rolled under our wheels. Shortly before turning off 12 there was an impressive line of sandstone cliffs on our left. I pointed them out to the rider I was with at the time, distracted he swerved off the road into gravel and went down. Luckily, he survived with minor scrapes and cuts. At Lavina, our route turned south-south east. Leaving highway 12 after almost 200 miles was a bit sad but Billings, and a rest day, were just ahead.
Two TV crews, Channel 2 and 8, were in the parking lot when Barbara and I arrived. Channel 8 interviewed me about the Big Ride. I missed both the 5 and 10 o’clock new shows on which the footage was to air. Oh well!
Dinner was catered by Beyond Basil. Steak, mahi mahi, and grilled tofu, they had it all! Even beer! They will also be providing the same dinner in Hardin, our next stop.
July 5, 2008 Harlowton to Billings, MT 92 miles (89)
Woke up at 4:45 to the sound of rain on my tent – not a good omen. The thought of riding 92 miles in the rain was NOT enticing. But no fear, sumo power cleared the air. The sumo that my son, Tim, gave me has become a talisman of good (mostly) luck. I am afraid, as are several other riders, that if I remove the sumo from my aero bars, all sorts of ill fortune will accost us.
This morning’s light rain was the result of a weather front moving through which brought with it a change of wind direction. We were pushed eastward for 46 miles by a strong tailwind. Averaging over 20 miles per hour, the pavement quickly rolled under our wheels. Shortly before turning off 12 there was an impressive line of sandstone cliffs on our left. I pointed them out to the rider I was with at the time, distracted he swerved off the road into gravel and went down. Luckily, he survived with minor scrapes and cuts. At Lavina, our route turned south-south east. Leaving highway 12 after almost 200 miles was a bit sad but Billings, and a rest day, were just ahead.
Two TV crews, Channel 2 and 8, were in the parking lot when Barbara and I arrived. Channel 8 interviewed me about the Big Ride. I missed both the 5 and 10 o’clock new shows on which the footage was to air. Oh well!
Dinner was catered by Beyond Basil. Steak, mahi mahi, and grilled tofu, they had it all! Even beer! They will also be providing the same dinner in Hardin, our next stop.
Woke up at 4:45 to the sound of rain on my tent – not a good omen. The thought of riding 92 miles in the rain was NOT enticing. But no fear, sumo power cleared the air. The sumo that my son, Tim, gave me has become a talisman of good (mostly) luck. I am afraid, as are several other riders, that if I remove the sumo from my aero bars, all sorts of ill fortune will accost us.
This morning’s light rain was the result of a weather front moving through which brought with it a change of wind direction. We were pushed eastward for 46 miles by a strong tailwind. Averaging over 20 miles per hour, the pavement quickly rolled under our wheels. Shortly before turning off 12 there was an impressive line of sandstone cliffs on our left. I pointed them out to the rider I was with at the time, distracted he swerved off the road into gravel and went down. Luckily, he survived with minor scrapes and cuts. At Lavina, our route turned south-south east. Leaving highway 12 after almost 200 miles was a bit sad but Billings, and a rest day, were just ahead.
Two TV crews, Channel 2 and 8, were in the parking lot when Barbara and I arrived. Channel 8 interviewed me about the Big Ride. I missed both the 5 and 10 o’clock new shows on which the footage was to air. Oh well!
Dinner was catered by Beyond Basil. Steak, mahi mahi, and grilled tofu, they had it all! Even beer! They will also be providing the same dinner in Hardin, our next stop.
July 4, 2008 Townsend to Harlowton, MT 101 miles (102)
Happy Birthday, U.S.A.! For the last 62 miles of yesterday’s ride we were on US 12; the same US 12 that goes through Arlington Heights, IL. my hometown. Today we continued on 12 for another 95 miles. The character of Route 12 in this part of the country is totally unlike home: two lanes versus four or six lanes, very few cars versus traffic counts in the tens of thousands, beautiful wide open scenery as opposed to mile after mile of commercial development. Yet, in spite of the differences, I felt comforted by the connection to home that 12 represented.
Today was a tough ride; the first 23.5 miles were almost all uphill – not a good wad to start! Added to this was a pesky headwind. Because we were going so, so, so slow while climbing the wind was not much of a factor but on the flats it became rather irritating. The wind was just strong enough that we even had to pedal on some of the downhills.
Climbing up and out of Deep Creek Canyon provided some of the finest views yet and when we finally reached the top the expansive vistas of Montana’s high range country had us in awe. This really is “Big Sky Country”!
We made it into White Sulfur Springs just in time for the Fourth of July parade, the second small town parade of our trip. This parade was so small that after traveling the length of main street (approximately four blocks) it turned around and came back! Just for those who may have missed it the first time. Big Riders overwhelmed Dory’s Cafe staff but it was the only place to get some food for the next 60 miles.
Harlowton’s camp was next to the rodeo arena. Locals, including cowboys, were still milling around after the conclusion of the annual rodeo. They looked at us mighty strangely in our bright colored jerseys and spandex riding shorts. The evening was spent watching a hot dog eating contest between several of the young guys, eating, and blowing off a variety of fireworks.
Happy Birthday, U.S.A.! For the last 62 miles of yesterday’s ride we were on US 12; the same US 12 that goes through Arlington Heights, IL. my hometown. Today we continued on 12 for another 95 miles. The character of Route 12 in this part of the country is totally unlike home: two lanes versus four or six lanes, very few cars versus traffic counts in the tens of thousands, beautiful wide open scenery as opposed to mile after mile of commercial development. Yet, in spite of the differences, I felt comforted by the connection to home that 12 represented.
Today was a tough ride; the first 23.5 miles were almost all uphill – not a good wad to start! Added to this was a pesky headwind. Because we were going so, so, so slow while climbing the wind was not much of a factor but on the flats it became rather irritating. The wind was just strong enough that we even had to pedal on some of the downhills.
Climbing up and out of Deep Creek Canyon provided some of the finest views yet and when we finally reached the top the expansive vistas of Montana’s high range country had us in awe. This really is “Big Sky Country”!
We made it into White Sulfur Springs just in time for the Fourth of July parade, the second small town parade of our trip. This parade was so small that after traveling the length of main street (approximately four blocks) it turned around and came back! Just for those who may have missed it the first time. Big Riders overwhelmed Dory’s Cafe staff but it was the only place to get some food for the next 60 miles.
Harlowton’s camp was next to the rodeo arena. Locals, including cowboys, were still milling around after the conclusion of the annual rodeo. They looked at us mighty strangely in our bright colored jerseys and spandex riding shorts. The evening was spent watching a hot dog eating contest between several of the young guys, eating, and blowing off a variety of fireworks.
July 3, 2008 Avon to Townsend, MT 61 miles (66)
Today marked a major milestone in our ride east – we crossed the Continental Divide. Its all downhill from here to Washington D.C.! Yeah, sure….except for the Black Hills, the hills in Wisconsin, and the Appalachian mountains. We’ll deal with those when we get there. The climb up to MacDonald Pass was fairly long, steep and steady topping out at 6,350 feet above sea level, the highest point on our cross-country journey. Due to the fact that today was a short day (only 60 miles) a group of us decided to ride a gravel road further up to a lookout on a peak adjacent to the pass. From the top the view was 360 degrees of spectacular scenery.
On the way through Helena, the state capital, Doug, Tony, and I detoured from the route to view the capitol building and some of the historic sections on downtown. Due to our extended stay we, along with Ed and Austin, were the last ones out of town. We hammered to catch up with some of the other riders. In Winston, at a small store (beer, wine, groceries, souvenirs, camping supplies, and US Post Office!) we met some of the other Big Riders. From that point on it was a fast paced ride to the finish in Townsend.
Daniel cooked a great meal of shrimp linguini, we had some drinks to wash it down and then settled in for the night.
Right now, as I sit here in my tent, Mother Nature is putting on quite a display. Thunder, lightning, and ominous clouds are moving in. Not to be outdone, the locals are setting off a variety of fireworks of their own. So, all in all, tonight should prove to be very entertaining!
(Written the following evening) Little did I know what was in store for us last night. A fast moving, Violent storm moved in necessitating our evacuation to the safety of the high school. After the rough stuff had passed, we went out to survey the damage; two tents down, one was beyond repair, and one other tent full of water. Luckily, my REI Taj 3 survived intact. Those of us who could settled in for the night, the others made the best of it in the school. Later another barrage of bad weather hit the camp but caused no further damage.
Today marked a major milestone in our ride east – we crossed the Continental Divide. Its all downhill from here to Washington D.C.! Yeah, sure….except for the Black Hills, the hills in Wisconsin, and the Appalachian mountains. We’ll deal with those when we get there. The climb up to MacDonald Pass was fairly long, steep and steady topping out at 6,350 feet above sea level, the highest point on our cross-country journey. Due to the fact that today was a short day (only 60 miles) a group of us decided to ride a gravel road further up to a lookout on a peak adjacent to the pass. From the top the view was 360 degrees of spectacular scenery.
On the way through Helena, the state capital, Doug, Tony, and I detoured from the route to view the capitol building and some of the historic sections on downtown. Due to our extended stay we, along with Ed and Austin, were the last ones out of town. We hammered to catch up with some of the other riders. In Winston, at a small store (beer, wine, groceries, souvenirs, camping supplies, and US Post Office!) we met some of the other Big Riders. From that point on it was a fast paced ride to the finish in Townsend.
Daniel cooked a great meal of shrimp linguini, we had some drinks to wash it down and then settled in for the night.
Right now, as I sit here in my tent, Mother Nature is putting on quite a display. Thunder, lightning, and ominous clouds are moving in. Not to be outdone, the locals are setting off a variety of fireworks of their own. So, all in all, tonight should prove to be very entertaining!
(Written the following evening) Little did I know what was in store for us last night. A fast moving, Violent storm moved in necessitating our evacuation to the safety of the high school. After the rough stuff had passed, we went out to survey the damage; two tents down, one was beyond repair, and one other tent full of water. Luckily, my REI Taj 3 survived intact. Those of us who could settled in for the night, the others made the best of it in the school. Later another barrage of bad weather hit the camp but caused no further damage.
July 2, 2008 Missoula to Avon, MT 99 miles (100)
Today’s ride was spectacular by any standard! Looking outside, after waking up, caused some initial concerns; low clouds, spotty drizzle, and an uncertain weather forecast. We all packed our rain gear expecting the worst.
While a few of the first riders out encountered some rain, the majority of us were blessed with cool temperatures (63 to 80 degrees), partly cloudy skies, and minimal winds. The scenery got better and better, each vista was better than the last.
We are now in the Rockies and will cross the continental divide tomorrow – the highest point on our ride at 6,350 feet. The Rockies in this region are not the Rockies of Colorado. High and rounded, they remind me more of the Appalachians out east, only higher. There are not the high, stark peaks with snow on them year round that are present in Colorado but this area is just beautiful.
57 miles on SR-200 had some traffic but once we turned on to SR-141 the traffic count dropped and the road surface became the best we’ve been on so far. 200 followed the Blackfoot River which was brown with sediment from recent rains. It looked like chocolate milk. 141 snaked its way through the high plains with the Garnet Range to the west and the Continental Divide to the east.
Our campground is three miles outside the town of Avon, home to a small café renowned for its great pies. Many riders, myself included, couldn’t resist checking to see if the reputation would stand up. We can all attest to the high quality pies baked by the café’s owner, Sue. My large piece of blueberry pie was delectable!
Today’s ride was spectacular by any standard! Looking outside, after waking up, caused some initial concerns; low clouds, spotty drizzle, and an uncertain weather forecast. We all packed our rain gear expecting the worst.
While a few of the first riders out encountered some rain, the majority of us were blessed with cool temperatures (63 to 80 degrees), partly cloudy skies, and minimal winds. The scenery got better and better, each vista was better than the last.
We are now in the Rockies and will cross the continental divide tomorrow – the highest point on our ride at 6,350 feet. The Rockies in this region are not the Rockies of Colorado. High and rounded, they remind me more of the Appalachians out east, only higher. There are not the high, stark peaks with snow on them year round that are present in Colorado but this area is just beautiful.
57 miles on SR-200 had some traffic but once we turned on to SR-141 the traffic count dropped and the road surface became the best we’ve been on so far. 200 followed the Blackfoot River which was brown with sediment from recent rains. It looked like chocolate milk. 141 snaked its way through the high plains with the Garnet Range to the west and the Continental Divide to the east.
Our campground is three miles outside the town of Avon, home to a small café renowned for its great pies. Many riders, myself included, couldn’t resist checking to see if the reputation would stand up. We can all attest to the high quality pies baked by the café’s owner, Sue. My large piece of blueberry pie was delectable!
July 1, 2008 Missoula, MT
Rest day. Didn’t do much after going out last night…Last evening Tony, Doug, and I went to a casino/grill/bar called the Press Room. When we got there Daniel, our ride leader, and Nick, the mechanic, were there with several other riders. The three of us had already eaten so we ordered some beverages and talked biker talk. This went on far too late after a 104-mile ride, but what fun.
Woke up, did laundry, hiked up to the giant “M” on Mount Sentinel overlooking the UM campus (620 feet of vertical), and then got busy writing postcards. Had dinner at the Press Room (we liked it that much) with 17 other Big Riders before coming back to the dorm to peck out these few meager words. All in all, a very restful day.
Tomorrow we continue on.
Rest day. Didn’t do much after going out last night…Last evening Tony, Doug, and I went to a casino/grill/bar called the Press Room. When we got there Daniel, our ride leader, and Nick, the mechanic, were there with several other riders. The three of us had already eaten so we ordered some beverages and talked biker talk. This went on far too late after a 104-mile ride, but what fun.
Woke up, did laundry, hiked up to the giant “M” on Mount Sentinel overlooking the UM campus (620 feet of vertical), and then got busy writing postcards. Had dinner at the Press Room (we liked it that much) with 17 other Big Riders before coming back to the dorm to peck out these few meager words. All in all, a very restful day.
Tomorrow we continue on.
June 30, 2008 Thompson Falls to Missoula, MT 101 miles (104)
Today the group split into two groups; one skipped breakfast in order to get on the road early while the other riders opted for the free food in town which meant a later start. I like free food. Mimi’s Café served a great breakfast and I was very uncomfortable when I got on my bike due to the amount I’d eaten. Other riders felt the same.
While on the topic of food, it is truly amazing how much we all eat only to be hungry again an hour or two later. Its not uncommon to eat breakfast before the day’s ride and then stop 25 miles later for a second breakfast! We have one rider who amuses us all…when he is done with his meal he looks around for ANY food left on other rider’s plates. To him any unattended morsels are fair game. I’ve witnessed him “clean” two and three plates, other than his, at a sitting!
Back to the ride – hot, sunny, hotter, sunnier, headwind, tailwind, scorchingly (is that even a word?) hot, intensely sunny and then, at mile 76, a fairly challenging 4.5-mile climb. Once again temperatures were in the 100+ range (104 by one thermometer) which stressed a few riders. Beautiful scenery and snowcapped mountains helped keep my mind off the heat. In the town of Rivali, at mile 64, there was a small sandwich shop that made GREAT huckleberry shakes and tropical smoothies. (Food again) Many of us sat on the shaded porch, enjoying the breeze, and watching the huge trout in the pond below. Alaska John met us there as well.
This was a well-needed break because earlier on the road trucks posed a problem – I have an issue with truck drivers who play god with my life. One trucker appeared to see how close he could come to me while traveling at 65 mph. Pretty unnerving!
Long rides in adverse conditions do strange things to one’s mind. I swear there was a heat exhausted, dead or dieing, Grover lying by the side of the road!
Two miles from the UM campus Rosie got a flat tire. Luckily there was a small patch of shade where she could fix her tire in relative comfort. Because she designated me as her “closer” I stayed with her and we finished the ride together.
Today the group split into two groups; one skipped breakfast in order to get on the road early while the other riders opted for the free food in town which meant a later start. I like free food. Mimi’s Café served a great breakfast and I was very uncomfortable when I got on my bike due to the amount I’d eaten. Other riders felt the same.
While on the topic of food, it is truly amazing how much we all eat only to be hungry again an hour or two later. Its not uncommon to eat breakfast before the day’s ride and then stop 25 miles later for a second breakfast! We have one rider who amuses us all…when he is done with his meal he looks around for ANY food left on other rider’s plates. To him any unattended morsels are fair game. I’ve witnessed him “clean” two and three plates, other than his, at a sitting!
Back to the ride – hot, sunny, hotter, sunnier, headwind, tailwind, scorchingly (is that even a word?) hot, intensely sunny and then, at mile 76, a fairly challenging 4.5-mile climb. Once again temperatures were in the 100+ range (104 by one thermometer) which stressed a few riders. Beautiful scenery and snowcapped mountains helped keep my mind off the heat. In the town of Rivali, at mile 64, there was a small sandwich shop that made GREAT huckleberry shakes and tropical smoothies. (Food again) Many of us sat on the shaded porch, enjoying the breeze, and watching the huge trout in the pond below. Alaska John met us there as well.
This was a well-needed break because earlier on the road trucks posed a problem – I have an issue with truck drivers who play god with my life. One trucker appeared to see how close he could come to me while traveling at 65 mph. Pretty unnerving!
Long rides in adverse conditions do strange things to one’s mind. I swear there was a heat exhausted, dead or dieing, Grover lying by the side of the road!
Two miles from the UM campus Rosie got a flat tire. Luckily there was a small patch of shade where she could fix her tire in relative comfort. Because she designated me as her “closer” I stayed with her and we finished the ride together.
June 29, 2008 Sandpoint, ID to Thompson Falls, MT 88 miles (94)
Another wonderful breakfast at a high school was somewhat offset by the fact that all of the riders were anxious to get an early start due to the anticipated high temperatures predicted for the day. Today’s ride was fairly flat due to the fact that we followed the Clark Fork River most of the way. Sure there were some attention getting “rollers” but they helped keep things interesting.
At mile 36 we made our second state line crossing; Idaho to Montana. We are making progress. Montana, Big Sky Country, lives up to its name and I look forward to out next eight days in the state. At about this time though, the heat became oppressive and there were still 58 more miles to be pedaled. Just before entering Thompson Falls, our destination for the day, I spied another rider ahead. Since old habits die hard (those who know me can attest to this) I chased him down and was truly humbled….the rider I caught turned out to be on his own epic journey.
John was from Fairbanks, Alaska and was cycling solo from Fairbanks to Fort Collins, Colorado – a total distance of approximately 4,200 miles. Kind of makes the Big Ride seem easy! Did I say solo? Well, not quite, for he had his three year-old sled dog, Squirrel, with him. He was riding a Navara mountain bike, loaded with 80 pounds of equipment (not including the 42 pound dog) and pulling a trailer and still managed to average between 60 and 100 miles each day! John and Squirrel were invited to join us at the high school for the night (road courtesy). His stories of 300 miles of gravel on the Al-Can Trail and grizzly encounters kept many of us entertained.
The only wildlife encounters we had to endure (other than the mother bear and her cub sighted near the high school) were the horrendous hordes of mosquitoes. Grizzly bears or mosquitoes….? Does a dead fish placed in a rider’s bag count as an “encounter”?
By the way, the temperature in Thompson Falls, depending on which bank thermometer you chose to believe, was either 105 or 111 degrees. I have pictures to prove it!
Once again we will be up and out early. Temperatures are going to be hot again tomorrow.
Another wonderful breakfast at a high school was somewhat offset by the fact that all of the riders were anxious to get an early start due to the anticipated high temperatures predicted for the day. Today’s ride was fairly flat due to the fact that we followed the Clark Fork River most of the way. Sure there were some attention getting “rollers” but they helped keep things interesting.
At mile 36 we made our second state line crossing; Idaho to Montana. We are making progress. Montana, Big Sky Country, lives up to its name and I look forward to out next eight days in the state. At about this time though, the heat became oppressive and there were still 58 more miles to be pedaled. Just before entering Thompson Falls, our destination for the day, I spied another rider ahead. Since old habits die hard (those who know me can attest to this) I chased him down and was truly humbled….the rider I caught turned out to be on his own epic journey.
John was from Fairbanks, Alaska and was cycling solo from Fairbanks to Fort Collins, Colorado – a total distance of approximately 4,200 miles. Kind of makes the Big Ride seem easy! Did I say solo? Well, not quite, for he had his three year-old sled dog, Squirrel, with him. He was riding a Navara mountain bike, loaded with 80 pounds of equipment (not including the 42 pound dog) and pulling a trailer and still managed to average between 60 and 100 miles each day! John and Squirrel were invited to join us at the high school for the night (road courtesy). His stories of 300 miles of gravel on the Al-Can Trail and grizzly encounters kept many of us entertained.
The only wildlife encounters we had to endure (other than the mother bear and her cub sighted near the high school) were the horrendous hordes of mosquitoes. Grizzly bears or mosquitoes….? Does a dead fish placed in a rider’s bag count as an “encounter”?
By the way, the temperature in Thompson Falls, depending on which bank thermometer you chose to believe, was either 105 or 111 degrees. I have pictures to prove it!
Once again we will be up and out early. Temperatures are going to be hot again tomorrow.
June 28, 2008 Spokane, WA to Sandpoint, ID 76 miles (77)
Woke up to a clear, cloudless sky which appeared to be a good omen…but temperatures were rising and we were met with a wind out of the east – in our faces all the way for today’s’ ride. Let me roll back just a bit to last night. The Big Ride Across Jersey designed by Austin was an item I didn’t think I could afford. From day one I regretted that decision; not only does the jersey look great but what a keepsake it would be. Last night Austin and his riding friend, Ed, asked if I had purchased one. When I said “No”, Ed said he had an extra one that would fit me and offered it to me. That BRAA jersey traded hands on the spot. What great guys!
Now back to the ride: miles upon miles of beautiful scenery on all sides as we rode east on SR-2 in spite of the pesky headwind. Out of Spokane, up and down rolling hills, some quite challenging (and we were promised an easy flat ride), through the towns of Mead, Chattery, Riverside, and Newport. Most of the route was in sight of the Pend Orielle River. In Newport a parade was held in our honor (not really, the parade was in conjunction with a rodeo being held in town). Shortly after leaving Newport we entered Idaho, the first state line crossing of the ride!
The thermometer rose dramatically, topping out in the mid-nineties. That coupled with the relentless sun and wind made the ride a bit tougher than the distance would suggest. Daniel, our ride leader, is concerned because the forecast promises hotter weather ahead.
In camp, on the grounds of Sandpoint High School, community members served our group a great spaghetti dinner. Afterwards some people crashed in their tents, others went to the beach, and several of the guys played a prank on three of the young ladies. When the ladies came back from church they found their bicycles hanging high in a tree! You know what they say about payback - its going to be fun seeing what develops!
Early up and out in order to avoid as much heat as possible.
Woke up to a clear, cloudless sky which appeared to be a good omen…but temperatures were rising and we were met with a wind out of the east – in our faces all the way for today’s’ ride. Let me roll back just a bit to last night. The Big Ride Across Jersey designed by Austin was an item I didn’t think I could afford. From day one I regretted that decision; not only does the jersey look great but what a keepsake it would be. Last night Austin and his riding friend, Ed, asked if I had purchased one. When I said “No”, Ed said he had an extra one that would fit me and offered it to me. That BRAA jersey traded hands on the spot. What great guys!
Now back to the ride: miles upon miles of beautiful scenery on all sides as we rode east on SR-2 in spite of the pesky headwind. Out of Spokane, up and down rolling hills, some quite challenging (and we were promised an easy flat ride), through the towns of Mead, Chattery, Riverside, and Newport. Most of the route was in sight of the Pend Orielle River. In Newport a parade was held in our honor (not really, the parade was in conjunction with a rodeo being held in town). Shortly after leaving Newport we entered Idaho, the first state line crossing of the ride!
The thermometer rose dramatically, topping out in the mid-nineties. That coupled with the relentless sun and wind made the ride a bit tougher than the distance would suggest. Daniel, our ride leader, is concerned because the forecast promises hotter weather ahead.
In camp, on the grounds of Sandpoint High School, community members served our group a great spaghetti dinner. Afterwards some people crashed in their tents, others went to the beach, and several of the guys played a prank on three of the young ladies. When the ladies came back from church they found their bicycles hanging high in a tree! You know what they say about payback - its going to be fun seeing what develops!
Early up and out in order to avoid as much heat as possible.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Few look as graceful on a two-wheeled vehicle as my father on a bicycle... Complete with a big sumo butt! (Compliments of the blog master) Photos also include the presentation of a check to the ALAW, the funds of which were raised by the Big Riders. Also, Jim assembling a bicycle before the start of the ride.
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