Winter cycling

Yes, it is true that the Denver area had a foot of snow last week.  But we get lots of sun and the highway departments do a good job of clearing snow from the major roads.  The snow ended on Thursday and by Sunday the roads were clear enough to be out on the bike.  We waited until Monday as we spent time with families on Christmas Day.

Ron snapped this photo of me, Jim, and Craig.  The temperature was 38 degrees when we started.  It was cloudy but without any wind so it made for a great ride.

Jim and I were back out again on Wednesday with the starting temperature again at 38 degrees.  The encouraging news is that I averaged 17 mph on both days, a high average as I typically cannot ride fast on cold days.  Perhaps the high- intensity core exercise classes are paying off.

I will file my CAFR (cycling annual fitness report) a few days early.  My mileage was the lowest since I retired at only 4,675.  In 2010, I pedaled 7,500 miles.  Without a tour to participate in this year, my training miles were way down and of course I then missed the 1600 miles of a typical 3-week tour that I do.

Along with Robin, I will staff the CrossRoads cross-country tour this year.  We are looking forward to it.