Exploring new roads

Many times I like to have a destination when cycling versus doing a loop. Knowing I'm going somewhere instead of in a circle gives me more of a sense of purpose. I know, I know--It doesn't serve a greater purpose unless I'm commuting and using my bicycle for transportation instead of my car. Nevertheless, I set out to ride to Columbus on Saturday since hubby would already be over there for his own exciting adventures. And since he was taking the, um, mini-van, I could easily fit my bike in the back and get a ride home.

After getting lost last year on a quest to go to the bike shop, I knew which turned I had missed and vowed to get it right this time. Just after Gatesville, I was looking for Hoover Road. Yep--it was right where the map said it would be with the street sign turned so drivers and cyclists couldn't read it from the approaching angle. Classic.

And then I was on new roads. Well, the roads themselves weren't new; rather, I had never been on them before. I was honestly smiling from the singing frogs in the morning. It was supposed to rain, and I hadn't felt one drop. (Forgetting to throw a bag of clothes in the van before Jason left, I had a camelback on with spare clothes in zip lock bags--just in case I was poured on!) I saw some geese flying North and gobbled at some turkeys in an empty field.

The next turn was Grandview road. Matt B explained that it's gravel for only a mile or so, and I would have no trouble on my road bike on this section. What he failed to explain that this was a long, steep hill! OUCH! I was a little worried about getting a flat, but my only other option at this point was to ride the highway; and I didn't really want to do that. The steepest part seemed like my own Brummetts Creek Rd hill, but it leveled out some mid-way up and kept reaching towards the sky. Was it ever going to end? Geesh.

As I was nearing the top, I saw a sight that I thought I would NEVER see. Two road cyclists were making their way DOWN the hill. WHY???????? Why would anyone want to descend this beast? As I got closer, I heard my name. I could now see it was Jacob & Amanda. We stopped to chat. It turns out the road did turn to pavement just a few feet ahead. Jacob was showing Amanda some new routes; their plan was to go down the hill, check out the intersection, then ride back up the hill. I was invited to join them. AS IF! I think I've explained that I'm the one that always wants to take a shortcut or NOT tack on extra mileage--let alone another steep, gravel hill while on my road bike. They must be smoking crack.

Before I knew it, I was following them down the hill. My forearms hurt from braking. With the previous night's rain and some of the gravel washed away, our tires were sinking into the mud.

I brought the wrong bike, I thought.

And as promised, we turned around at the bottom and climbed up it again. My guides showed me the way to Columbus via the bike path and escorted me to the Bicycle Station. It was fun talking to them and hearing the excitement in their voices as they talked about their upcoming wedding. They are certainly a cute couple! And, I got to hear all about their new team for local (Indy) bike builder, Shamrock Cycles. I have been admiring Tim's frames for a long time--they are truly artwork with excellent craftsmanship. If you get a chance, click on the link and view his creations.

To top off my good fortune, as I was pedaling through Columbus, I saw Hubby at a stoplight on his way to the Bicycle Station to pick me up. Awesome timing.

Unfortunately, Sunday's weather didn't cooperate and I opted for an indoor ride. Boo. Hiss. But I'm patting myself on the back for doing extra work twice this week! Looking forward to Summer and dry trails. Have I mentioned that yet?

Life is good.