Fountain Hills Loop #3

Today I was reminded that we’re not riding bicycles, we’re riding rigs.

A full load conditioning ride today.  Both front and back panniers and handlebar bag.  I filled the back panniers with the usual tent, sleeping bag, mattress, pillow, and an assortment of lights.  In each of the front went a 5 lb dumbbell and an extra filled water bottle.  The bike felt about right, maybe 5 lb more than usual and weighted a little heavier in the front than usual.

The ride tested a bit of recent maintenance, too.  New rear tube (slow leak caused by not one but two wire shards) and new cyclometer batteries.  This was also a test run for a stylish new addition to my front handlebars (due to recent hand ache while riding).  This padding is so cushy it feels like a woman’s buttock (OK, not that good).

The considerable increase in weight announced itself early and often on the hills out by the lake.  It was a good reminder of what a 5 mph uphill crank feels like, and to hang back in “infinity mode” when loaded down so much.  Good thing the skies were overcast all morning.

As is customary, I paused on the Beeline Highway bridge over the Verde River for a water bottle break.  As I meditated, I suddenly heard a splashing coming from underneath the bridge, and expected to then see a kayak or something.  The something turned out to be horses foraging on the slimy green stuff growing from the banks.  At first I thought they might be some of the wild horses that reside on the Salt River area, but they looked too well fed, and I finally noticed brands on them too.

Breakfast again at Flapjacks in Fountain Hills.  Long coffee break, then tasty egg scrambler and pancakes.  I talked again with owner Laura and partner Kathy – delightful people serving up excellent food.

I reluctantly stepped onto the bike for the return home, because my knees were singing sour notes from the morning hill climbing.  To my relief, they really felt quite fine for the 20 miles home.  I even got some light rain on the way.  It was one of those rains that smells wonderful, of creosote and parched asphalt.

I heard from Jack this week, who has been riding plenty in the rain himself.  He figures this is good practice for September riding in Florida.  54 fully loaded miles.