Today's ride involves a shout out to the posse, Harry, Karen, Ira and Alec. Notice I never refer to them as the Dalton Gang since the Dalton gang was really nothing more that a bunch of thugs robbing people. However a posse is after the "bad guy" so as they chased me across several states I was in the "bad guy" mode. On today's ride, after about 25 miles of a 42 mile trip, I noticed two riders a couple miles in front of me. I decided to "reel them in" as the posse had done to me many times. Since I was riding into the wind I knew I needed to increase my speed from my usual 16-17 mph to at least the 18-20 mph level to see if I could catch them. About a half mile from where I normally turn onto a different road, I finally caught them. In an homage to Ira, as I passed, after wishing them a "good afternoon", I announced "I come in peace". We all had a good laugh and I was off. Oddly enough they took the same road as me and after I got about three hundred yards ahead I noticed I was not increasing the distance between us. It then became apparent they were in chase mode. I know the feeling well. I still had over five miles to the end of the ride and I was not about to be caught. Since there was no wind in my face I rode the last five miles at 20+ mph. rate. They were not up to the challenge. By the end of the ride they were no where to be found. The 42 mile ride was accomplished with an average speed of 19.2 mph. Now, while that might not seem especially fast for many, for me, that was a personal best.
But, now here is a problem. I conceded long ago I am not a racehorse. If I continue with that type of behavior I will lose my Clydesdale status and get embarrassed by the real racehorses. Therefore, so I won't have to surrender my Clydesdale card, I will attempt to never again engage in that type of unseemly behavior. To the other Clydesdale's out there, I apologize seeking forgiveness and place the blame squarely on the posse. Ha!

Ok, so when I play golf, every once in awhile I hit a shot that is absolutely perfect. I sense your doubt but its true. Would I lie about something like that. Ahhh, maybe I would but you have to trust me on this. That's what keeps me coming back. While most of my shots are average at best and some are absolutely horrendous, that one shot is the one I remember. So I continue playing the silly game once again seeking that elusive shot. The same concept applies to riding a bicycle. While most days are average in terms of temperature, wind speed, and conditions in general, some are absolutely horrible with winds of 20 mph, a sudden rainstorm and a flat tire. But then there are those days with relatively no wind, temperature in the low 70's, no traffic; a perfect day to ride a bicycle. Well, today was that perfect day. Riding 45 miles in perfect conditions was a real treat. In fact, I thought about increasing my distance but other obligations would not allow it. While I still consider myself a Clydesdale, certainly not a racehorse, I averaged over 18 mph. Not bad by my standards. So, like that perfect golf shot I can't wait for tomorrow to recapture those perfect riding conditions. Obviously, its a long shot but one can still be optimistic!
Getting wanderlust and can't decide my next great adventure in the biking realm. Still considering the ALCAN highway but have encountered obstacles. None of which can't be overcome. When the decision is made I will post it. Had a great Easter and hope all of the followers of this blog did the same.
Wouldn't you know it. After my ride today, I took my bike in for it's annual tune-up. Just got a call that my entire drive train needs to be replaced. It seems like I wore down the bushings, derailer, and chain. I have only had the bike a little over a year and only rode it to church on Sunday. I wonder if its still under warrenty. Any suggestions?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FW2i1yd3jR0