Longest Ride Yet en blanc et noir

A few shots taken with my new Franka Solida. Its fun taking pictures with a camera that weighs as much as some bike frames!

Longest Ride Yet!

Sorry for the two day wait. Somebody's got a headcold. Anyway, Sunday I went up to West Hollywood for the I. Martin to Playa del Rey and back ride. In true Rini fashion, I was late and out of gas. Nevertheless, I got there, found a parking spot, and got the bike out hasta pronto!

In my haste, I sorta parked in a no parking zone. I also sorta forgot my pads. I bought a pair of Cannondale ones, and we carried on.

My bike was covered in sand still from its previous ride, so I did a very quick rinsing, and away we went.

The ride down was uneventful, going through some pleasant neighborhoods. Eventually we hit the bike trail. That was gorgeous. Nice and mellow, and it allowed some spinning. Fifteen miles later we were all at the bridge. I got out my new photographic toy and took some photos.

Then we pushed on and rode to LAX. Nothing like being right on the flight path! Then it was time for bagels and stuff in Playa del Rey.

And then the ride home where it was the exact same thing in reverse. I had some cramping at about 30 miles, but I made it back!

So here we are, I. Martin, ocean bridges, 35 miles!

And two days later my legs are still tender.

Today was a surprisingly enjoyable ride for a number of reasons. I believe I'm starting to mature as a rider.

-First off, I am aware of the "steering with your hips" principle. This doesn't mean I can do it every time, but it makes turning easier. I think it will become natural eventually.

-Second, I put myself up to the weather. Another storm system is rolling through Socal. I went out the door and thought what a beautiful afternoon it was, and, sure enough, buy the time I got to Warner Ave the headwind was in my face. I didn't understand why I was so out of breath until I got to PCH. Then I saw the wind in full force: lots of whitecaps, a sand haze, and a grey weather front the likes of which I'd not seen before. So, like a fool, I rode into the weather. (Everyone else was going away from it but no, do I ever follow common sense?)So anyway, I got some drops at the jetty, and it was definately coming down by the end of the dog beach.

And I wasn't afraid at all. It was actually quite fun.

So three things learned: 1) I'm not afraid of the rain, 2) Sand is a treacherous jerk, and 3) When you ride in the rain you will get a roostertail and a very soggy butt.

Oh well, fun day! 12.3 miles.

Oh and I got a new bell.

Well yesterday was 16 more miles. I created a little route using the coastline, and it was quite pleasant. Here's a couple photos. Highlights, learning that after the first 5 miles I'm golden, sprinting at 22 miles, and flying down Goldenwest Hill at 26mph!