Check Ride

A few days ago, our bikes spent the day at the shop getting some last minute attention. In anticipation of the climbs into the high mountains of the Alps, we had new derailleur cables installed to make sure there are no problems shifting into low gear. And since what goes up, must come down, new brake cables and pads seemed prudent, too! My bike also got some new pedal spindles (who knew there was such a thing!) to remedy the pedal problem that occurred at the Bike MS ride last weekend.

One thing years of racing (inline skates) taught me is never compete on new equipment. Don't show up to the start line with something you've never used before. So today was a Check Ride to make sure all the new equipment is working properly. Paul took that philosophy to heart and tested his new IdleFast kit.

We picked one of our favorite route, the Potomac Loop, because it has a nice mix of flats for speed and hills for climbing. It hits many of the "famous" DC climbs, like Anglers Inn Hill, Mass Avenue, Tilden Street. 

Paul heading toward Anglers Inn Hill

Paul setting a nice pace up Mass Ave
for Siew-Ching and Barbara

The return trip took us through Rock Creek Park where we tackled Sherrill Drive to test our skills climbing, and then descending, hairpin turns. Well, one hairpin turn, so it was pretty easy! We were going to tackle one last hill, the Walter Reed Hill, but, after 50 miles, decided to leave the "The Giant of South Arlington" for another day. Like tomorrow, on the Spokes Shop Ride.