Saturday, September 8, 2012

Tour de Starbucks

Well, the weather didn’t disappoint. It was 69 degrees this morning when I rode out of my driveway. I hadn’t really decided on a course yet, I just knew I wanted to take my time and enjoy this weather while it lasted.  Knowing I needed something to eat and drink, I headed to the nearest Starbucks. It’s a new one they just opened up. Took a little time to wake up, chat with a few other customers who were starting their day and nibble on a donut and drink a cup of coffee. After that I decided I would ride to the other Starbucks in town. I made my way down and around and through this and that and not really worrying about speed or cadence or heart rate. I just wanted to enjoy the sun coming up and the cool north wind blowing. About halfway there I really started to feel my back tighten up. I was thinking I should stop and stretch it out but then remembered that my gym is right around the corner from my destination and has massage chairs!

I arrive at the gym, place my bike inside and grab some coins from the clerk and proceeded to get my massage for the next 15 minutes.  It did wonders for me.

I made my way to the second Starbucks around the corner and got my water bottle filled. The next few miles were really fun since I was going south and had the now 20 to 25 mph wind at my back. I wound my way around the outskirts of downtown knowing that my next destination would require a trip through the town square. The roads in and around the square are not really meant for bikes, no shoulder of any kind and all of them are curbed. No sidewalks to bail out to either. Luckily, a lot of drivers are used to seeing bicyclists and give plenty of room.

I made it to the square and as usual, an arts and crafts fair was in swing.  I decided to take a look-see and get my pic snapped.

One happy cyclist.

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After browsing here and there it was north into the headwinds for the last stop. Starbucks number 3.

Arrived a lot more tired and frustrated than I should have been. The time off the bike was showing.

Rested and chatted with a few people and then the final leg began, all north back home. I was not looking forward to this.  Wont bore you with details just know that I made it home in good shape.

For the last few rides I have heard a clicking noise from somewhere on my bike. It sounded like it was coming from the front fork but logic say the BB is suspect. Will need to get that looked at. I say that to say this, I didn’t hear it at all today and I think it’s because I really wasn’t going for speed and ‘hammering’ the cranks.  Again, will have to get it looked at soon, I don't like my bike making noises.

All in all, it was a good ride. Love my Jamis but on rides like this, I really would like the Vaya (see last post). The larger tires on it would make for a more comfortable ride. I took the 23cm off this bike you see above and put 28cm treads (the tires you see in the picture). Has made a big difference but the larger tires on the Vaya would be awesome!  Think I just may have to pull the trigger on the Vaya here soon.

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