No power, free ride
Saratoga Springs lost much of its power yesterday between 9am and 3pm. After a few false starts and much waiting my company decided it was time to call it a day. I had been planning on shoehorning a ride in before the birthday dinner at the in-laws last night–now I had a full four hours to ride!
It was also a brilliant, sunny, beautiful day warm enough for just shorts, jersey and my jacket with all the vents opened up.
After dropping the car at Steph’s office, I went down Daniels road and saw a National Grid worker coming out of the woods on a four-wheeler. No doubt looking for clues to the mass power outage. I stopped at home to let Jenny out since we’d be home late tonight. Grabbed a 2nd water bottle since now the ride was going to be longer than an hour or two.
Rode up to Ft. Edward, then down West River Road (of course), across the street onto Grange Road and then onto CR32 all the way south to Staffords Bridge Rd. A quick zig onto Fitch, then around the lake continuing to Rt 9 by The Public House (one of our favorite restaurants). Rt 9 down to Round Lake and then onward to the in-law’s house.
About midway around the lake I start to feel achy and tired and realized this is because I haven’t eaten enough. This was both a conscious and slightly accidental decision. I felt good at the beginning of the ride and wanted to test the effects of poor eating. (Not like I haven’t tested this plenty of times before, unwittingly.) This Sunday on the 200km brevet, I will eat religiously and attempt to scientifically observe its effects on my comfort and strength.
The last 40 or so miles were south and therefore into the wind. Surprisingly, it wasn’t as arduous as I was anticipating. Either the wind was lighter than expected or I’m finally able to (partially) muscle my way through the wind. I’m satisfied with my avg speed given the headwind.
The aero bars have been great so far. I still feel faster when down in them.