Preparation

Centennial Trail between Elk Creek and Alkali

Yesterday I was able to make a small prep run for the Dakotafive-o. I only rode for a couple hours but they were quality. I haven't downloaded the data yet but there was much climbing involved. I started at the Alkali Creek Trailhead and rode up Bulldog and continued on a few miles towards Elk Creek Trailhead on the Centennial Trail.

I've never been past the top of bulldog before and I have to tell you, it's a doozy. Much climbing is involved between that little section. Long downhills make for long uphills. The trail was beautiful though. Not that there were sweeping views but just much green foliage everywhere. There were also a couple of creek crossings which turned out to be dry.

I'm unsure about my readiness for the five-o but I don't have much choice. I have to do it and my goal will remain under 6 hours. If I don't make it, no big deal but it sure would be fun. I put in a lot of time at the beginning of the year which fell off during June and parts of July. Since then I've been riding or commuting a couple times a week. Usually logging close to 50-60 miles per week so I should be ok. We'll see.

Commuting and Dakota Five-o

I started my new job a couple weeks ago. So far, I'm absolutely loving it. There is a large variety of work to do and it all revolves around bikes, getting kids to ride bikes, bike events and other things bike related. You could say I like it.

One of the other perks about this place is the bike parking. We have a large warehouse where there are about 20-30 hooks to hang bikes and a shower to wash off the stink. I have been leaving my Santa Cruz here most of the time so I can hop out for a quick lunch ride on M-hills since it's so close. I've also been able to commute by bike a little more since I don't get so many evil looks when I am sweaty or need to bring my bike inside.

I haven't commuted a ton yet but my number is increasing. I'm hoping for at least 3 times per week which I know isn't much, but compared to what I have been doing, it is a vast improvement.

I do need to keep riding to work and getting the lunch rides in to prepare for the Dakota 5-0. It's probably too late to do any serious prep work but doing nothing will not help either. So, my plan of commutes and lunch rides will have to do for now.

Speaking of the Dakota five-o... I know two people who are unable to use their registration. One is for medical reasons, so if you are interested in riding let me know and I'll get you in touch with those folks. We'll have to move pretty fast since the transfer deadline is fast approaching.

Do any of you use Strava? What are your thoughts? I'm not fully convinced yet although I can see the fun in it.