Final Preps

Across the Dunes
Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, FL
June 4, 2024

 I am working on final preps for the Greater Allegheny Passage (GAP) ride next week with Patrick, Jen, and Jeremy. Yesterday, I rode a hard 20-mile tune-up that saw 51 percent of my 1h34m ride in Training Zones 4 and 5. 

It was a great ride along Beach Road on Jupiter Island with the ocean and the Uber-expensive properties to view. The area is a very exclusive area and many of the houses cannot be seen from either the road or the adjacent Intracoastal Waterway, but there are others that allow a glimpse as to how people live in $30M plus homes. 

Trimmed Trees
Jupiter island, FL
June 4, 2024

The winds were light yesterday, blowing mostly from the north which meant the ride back would have a small assist. The north end of the ride, and coincidentally the end of the road, is the Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge. I appreciate that much of Jupiter Island is devoted to the Refuge. 

On the ride back we toured some of the side roads through the neighborhoods and in pone place came upon heavily trimmed/pruned trees. They look as if they are preparing for Halloween early as they must be an eerie sight at night when the moon is bright. 

New Cassette and Chain
Tequesta, FL
June 5, 2024

After the ride and lunch, I took my bike to the local bike shop for its annual tune-up. I wanted to get it done before the ride next week and I finally made time to complete the task. I expected to be without my bike for two days, but was pleasantly surprised when they called just before closing to tell me it was ready. Awesome! I can ride it today and see if any adjustments need to be made. 

It was good I took my bike in because it needed a new chain and cassette. I expected the need for a new chain as I had over 3700 miles on the current chain. They also, as expected, adjusted my brakes and the gear shifts while giving the bike a general clean-up. They informed me that I was oiling my chain too much, which is why the collection of grime was significant. Funny, I was also informed that both the front and rear brakes were dragging a bit and that I will have more speed and power now. I am looking forward to that. 

Hopefully, my bike, and me too, is ready for the upcoming GAP ride. I will know more after this morning's ride, which will be my usual 16-mile route. 

-- Bob Doan, Tequesta, FL

#bike #biking #GAP