Biking 100 miles from Austin Tx to Shiner Tx
Posted on 03. May, 2009 by carlos in Touring
Yesterday, I pedaled for 100 miles with nearly 1,500 other cyclists (Great Austin to Shiner Pedal). Noteworthy attractions included fancy bikes, skin-tight clothes, and calves the size of pineapples. For the entire ride we battled a 15-30mph headwind, cursing <insert wind-god here>. I rode with a full pack which meant an extra 25lbs to lug uphill.
Every 10 to 20 miles well-organized rest stops offered water, oranges, Powerbars, crackers, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to the riders. Thank you to Shiner Brewery and to all the sponsors and volunteers for running an incredible event!
What I Learned:
- Headwind will be one of our toughest challenges.
- Drafting (when cyclists ride very close to each other in a line) is the best defense.
- Some cyclists are jerks, and some are not.
- Our bike’s weight and aerodynamics matter in the long run.
- A ‘long ride’ is as much mental as it is physical. One altered thought can give the body much-needed energy.
Congratulations to @perks and @stretch_aye (the only fixed gear to finish) for riding!
