Dooh, not much of a report.
Eric,,
Guess I should not have posted with the football game ON.
The normal rainy season weather pattern in Orlando is Sunny mornings temp rapidly rising form mid 70's to low 90's by noonish,
Cooler sea/gulf breeze meets warm land air and produces increased clouds and late afternoonish evening storms. Water control ponds flank every parking lot and highway collecting runoff and providing swamp like humidity. Comfort is defined by shade and breeze.
Since it rained on each of the last 3-4 days humidity was up around 90% ( two liter sodas cover with condensation before you can get them loaded into the car in the parking lot.
I was wary of spending 5 hrs on the road without shade so I dutifully slathered my legs with sunscreen and donned cooling sleeves, sweatband for my head ,chapsticked lips, and my usual big dabrim visor.
I was PREPARED......
So I got an atypical day. I did not see sunshine till mile 40. Did you know riding without sunglasses allows you to see insects just before they impact your face.
Tried my best to drink often and before thirst .. 2 liter water bladder and topping off a water bottle at each rest stop seemed adequate,, maybe not as I only took one bathroom break.
Being slower than the roadie's I was only passed by one group between miles 18 thru 47 when the 100 milers rejoined my route, and that group had missed the same turn I overshot; wonder how many extra miles that cost them ?
Sitting reclined and enjoying the scenery makes it easy to miss turn prompts painted on the road.
I hate county roadsigns that only show cross street names, cost savings I guess, and surely you know what road you are on right ?? Gotta look into navigation software before I try this again.
Was so shocked when a Cruzbike Vendetta passed me in my last 8 miles that I did not see what jersey the rider was wearing.
I would have sat with him for the post ride burger. I only remember seeing 4 recumbents all day .
folks seemed suprised I finished on my Sofrider, didn't bother me except for a group that I had played tag with all day. The group took longer breaks at each rest stop and I would pull in just before they headed out. Did they think I would disappear in the last 10 miles ???
So good ride , did not get sun broiled or rained on.
Paced myself ,No rubbery shaky legs or zombie fatigue, enough gears for the overpasses and bridges. No more fear about riding that distance.
Have to increase my speed so I can be part of a group.
I am thinking about saving the bladder for solo rides and riding lighter? with a bottle or showers pass system and taking advantage of the scheduled rest area's water for refills.
later,,, enjoy your ride.
