Although I’m still in the early load group, I joined with several of the folks from the late load group including Deb and Marty. It was nice to not rush to get on the road today.
After getting out of the motel/mall madness, we were on a very nice bike path which eventually led to the Sioux Falls. I would have liked to explore more there but the group headed out and I needed to stay with them.
Getting off the bike path, we went through the outskirts of town that weren’t so nice but eventually the road and route improved. Before long, we were at the Minnesota state border.
There were no shoulders but the road was smooth and drivers were very courteous.
Our rest stop in Lucerne was at a pretty little park with shade and bathrooms. Nice. I had to keep an eye on my group so I wouldn’t get left behind. Worked well.
Not too long after this stop at mile 38, there was a bump in the road but it separated the monsters from the rest of us. Bev and Greg powered on ahead while Alan , Marty, Deb, Hao and I continued at a more sane rate. At least I thought it was more sane. 🙂
Moving along at a decent clip, we passed through the town of Adrian. When we were about ten miles from the end of the ride, I asked for a butt break. Alan found us a nice driveway with shade where we stopped for a few minutes to get off the saddle and let our “hot foot” calm down. I got some advice on how to deal with that problem and plan on using it tomorrow.
I REALLY enjoyed riding with a group all day. We got in much earlier than I would’ve had I been on my own. Had time to stop at DQ for burger and a shake, soak in hot tub, swim, do laundry, and still be on time for RAP.
Dinner was at a restaurant called Ground Round. Good meal with ice cream for dessert.
Today my mileage was 70. Tomorrow its supposed to be over 110 with rain storms expected. Temperature should still be warm so won’t be wearing rain gear.
thecyclingdiva 