Sunday, July 10, 2011

Rapid Progress

Hello from South Dakota! We crossed the state line today and are relaxing with root beer floats at The Newman Center in Spearfish, SD. Today was a light day, 60 miles. It still gives us pause to realize how quickly and comfortably we can complete so many miles. After our longest ride - 110 miles from Sheridan to Gillette, Wyoming - 60 feels like a breeze!

With two days left until our next rest day in Rapid City, SD, we've accumulated a long list of favorite routes, pit stops, foods, people and lessons learned. Here are a few things we've learned on our rides:
  • Safety first, then teamwork.
  • Stretch. Before, during, after and all the time.
  • Eat. (See above.)
  • Hydrate. Drink before you're thirsty. Water will do the trick, but it's okay to treat yourself to a sports drink and a cold one when the day is done. Just make sure any alcohol is followed by extra water if you plan to ride the next day.
  • Sunscreen - Take the few extra minutes every few hours to avoid discomfort later.
  • People are very generous when you give them the chance.
  • Prunes really do work... Remember: everything in moderation.
  • First step when making side-of-the-road repairs: Practice deep breathing!
  • For long rides, carry spare tubes AND a patch kit... Multiple flats happen (Our personal record in one day: 11 flats).
  • While riding with a partner is an obvious safety rule, a riding buddy can be a great coach on the uphills, your spotter on the straightaways and copilot on the downhills. But seriously... Don't ride alone.
  • There are few things better than a long downhill and a tailwind.

Until our next post, check out the stories, videos and photos on our ride journal!

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