Training Ride #3

Last weekend, Meta04 and I rode what was our longest training ride to date. Known as the Presidio to Fairfax ride, we rode nearly 40 miles with approximately 20 other riders who are riding in AIDS/LifeCycle 6.

The morning started bad. When we arrived at Sports Basement in The Presidio, we stretched, and pumped air in our tires. I pumped air, using my mini pump, when a recent transplant from Montana asked, "Hey, do you want to use a real pump." I said, "No - I'm grand, but thanks." 30 seconds later, he walked to us with his pump.

Screw it, I'll use his pump. And I did. And I pumped too much air into my front tire that it popped. That is what happens when you attempt to pump more than the stated maximum PSI (112 PSI). Our ears rang for a couple minutes.

I walked to Sports Basement to purchase a replacement tube, as well as a couple extra just in case. After changing the tube, we were in great shape to start the ride. We met the other riders at the store entrance, and set off for Fairfax.

On our ride from Fairfax back to San Francisco, all was well until we saw some riders from our group pulled over on the side of the road. I was riding in the last position in a group of six cyclists. I turned my head for no more than two seconds to view the casualty of the riders on the side of the road when I turned to look forward and quickly realized that I was about to become a casualty.

"OH SHIT!!!" I yelled as I slammed into Meta04. It hurt. Damn, it hurt. My right foot was caught in the spokes of Meta04's rear wheel. My right shin was hurtin' for certain. My nuts slammed into my handlebar. I cut some skin on my right elbow and knee. I hurt. I lied there for 30 seconds after the impact, laughing, and wanting to recoup from the accident.

Many riders immediately came to both Meta04 and me, and offered help. One rider asked, "Aside from your pride, is there anything that hurts?" I said, "Screw it, F pride ride now. I have no shame. I'm fine. I just want to lay here for a sec."

The people riding in front of our six-person group apologized for stopping abruptly and not calling out her intention to stop. Oh well. It's not a ride unless someone bails hardcore.

The remainder of the ride back to San Francisco was fine. I can climb hills easier now that I take a spinning class once or twice a week. And once you make it to the top of a hill, down is the only way you can go. I love downhill cruising. It make the climb oh so worth it.

LOG
Distance: 40 miles
Locations: Presidio, Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, Almonte, Corte Madera, Larkspur, Greenbrae, Kentfield, Ross, San Anselmo, Fairfax