The pace was set early and it was fast - very typical for a large ride in Boulder where there is ALWAYS someone faster than you. I felt generally good and kept up with the pace as a few folks fell off the back. We headed up towards Switzerland trail on packed snow and ice. A group of five us set the pace. A few folks were comfortable while I was at my threshold of a sustainable pace. They chatted and I concentrated. We got to the Switzerland trail and regrouped then headed up towards Gold Hill. Fast pace again - too fast for me - so I settled in and pedaled at my own pace before reaching the top. This as the most interesting part of the ride as it was either covered in snow or dry as a bone. The dry part was always welcome. The snowy parts were generally packed but not all the time. Undernearth the snow was hidden ice. As my tires tried to grab the undulating terrain the would slip out from under me quickly and unforgivingly. This happened to a number of us with plenty of folks hitting the snow before reaching the top.At the top, I had to bolt as I had to be home to take my daughter square dancing - yee haw! - so I didn't wait for the regroup. Rob Batey joined me and we sailed back down to Boulder. Good ride - 3.5 hours in total, 4.3k ft of climbing, and plenty of fun mixing it up with the buddies.
The new Specialized Stumpjumper S-Works 29er road very well. Still getting good sensations. This ride wasn't technical at all so it really didn't server any purpose as far as evaluating the bike's technical handling prowess. I can say that it fits me perfectly, however. I'm a dash over 6' and the 19" Large fits perfectly with a 120mm stem.
Interesting to note on the ride that ONLY 3 guys were riding 26" wheeled bikes. I was shocked by this. This was a hard corp group of guys that are fit and competitive in regional expert / pro races. Definately a testament to the 29er movement.
More to come. Thanks for reading.
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