Went over to Wisconsin to try a new trail. I have the bike set up single speed with 30x17 gearing. This was a bit ambitious on my part since I ride only a couple times a month. It was still a blast but I'm pretty sore.
I use a hinged balaclava. My windproof ones are too stiff for skiing, but perfect for the bike. One is partially windproofed, the other fully windproofed and a little harder to don.I'm getting ready for some cold-weather biking and am looking for a warm face cover/wind shield. Do you just wear a ski mask, or are there options specifically for cyclists? Any suggestions?
I started late at 8:55 am at Alvin Ward Park at the Moore Haven Lock. Lake Okeechobee water was being sent down the Caloosahatchee to the detriment of the Gulf of Mexico in SWFL. The initial portion of the trail is still closed due to construction, as is much of the trail. The first point I was able to access the Herbert Hoover Dike back in July, on the south side of Lakeport, was closed to construction. Yeah, the ACOE's map is not accurate. Back on the road. In Lakeport proper I was able to get up onto double track. It is such a slow go due to rocks, ruts, and tallish grass. After crossing the Kissimmee River, the trail was paved until I was forced back down to the road at Taylor Creek. The Taylor Creek Condos won't let you you back up on the dike, however! I went several miles on the road to the second access point to more paved trail miles on the dike. There were some large gators on the way down to Port Myaka! I made three stops for food and water, the last in Pahokee, 47 miles from the finish, after slogging through wet gravel and stone. I couldn't ride the much photographed bridge in Lake Harbor over the Miami Canal due to construction. I never would have finished if it hadn't been overcast nearly all day, with temps near 90. I would not recommend the full loop to anyone until construction is finished. The 112 mile loop becomes 123.5 miles, with much of it on the shoulder of two or four lane divided highway next to fast moving traffic. Not very scenic. The last 50 miles were done on the road. I got back to the parking lot at 7:06 pm. It was just me and a bajillion mosquitos as I loaded the car.
The Roubaix did great. The Gator Hardshells performed great. Never flatted and not a single cut. I still haven't worn the molding line on the front tire. The bike has been washed, but today is a rest day!
I put the trainer wheel/tire on the bike a 2 weeks ago but haven't been able to drag myself down to the basement to actually do a ride. I should, but I hate every second on that thing.