In Summary 🚲 🌽 🌈
In summary, my first RAGBRAI was a mixed bag. There was the pleasure of meeting Ryan Van Duzer! I got to try some fantastic foods: Chris Cakes; Beekman’s Ice Cream; Classic Cheddar and Bacon on Sourdough sandwich; and Thelma’s Ice Cream Sandwiches. And I added another state to my “visited” list; the first in many years.
On the downside, I had to SAG much more than I wanted to; in part because my bicycle kept giving me mechanical problems. On the fourth night, a deluge left many of us with flooded tents. My sleeping bag got soaked; and then it weighed a ton.
I totaled 238.67 miles out of the 406 miles of the RAGBRAI route; not much more than half. That was a disappointment. But in summary, this RAGBRAI actually was pretty good. I never expected that every moment would have me over the moon; and things weren’t so bad that I’ve been scared away from trying RAGBRAI again.
Little Things 🌈
Then there are all the little things that didn’t quite fit into any of my blogs; but that are a part of RAGBRAI. I’ve mentioned the piggy-wig; but I never said anything about rumbles.
Cyclists understandably go around rumbles when they can. If you have to roll over them, it’s like riding over a washboard! Rumbles typically come in sets of three; and are designed to slow traffic in the approach to a stop sign
I’ve been watching YouTubes of RAGBRAI 2025; and it’s good to see them. There are so many little things that I had already forgotten; and the videos refresh my memory. Like the tulip signs on the way out of Orange City.
Next Year 📅
I’m already thinking of RAGBRAI next year! Although I had problems this year, at least I know why.
Next year, examine my bicycle more carefully when I get it back from the shipping service. If I had done that, I might have had much less trouble.
Start training earlier; and train harder. For this RAGBRAI, I didn’t get my hard efforts past 90 seconds. I need to work them up to at least five minutes! Who knows; in 2026, the route might throw 15% grades at us!
Maybe I should consider a touring bike with a triple crankset? Or perhaps a lighter-weight road bike. I’ve read of a formula for long-distance cyclists: the bike shouldn’t weigh more than 12% of the rider’s weight. According to that formula, the road bike I have is far too heavy! I’m a petite; and maybe there aren’t any bicycles that light, except for pro-tour racing bikes. But they’re far beyond my budget.
Next year I want to try some goodies that I missed this year: Farm Kids Breakfast; corn on the cob; Mr. Porkchop. And a few more pieces of pie. If I can improve my cruising speed to 15 mph, I might have more time to spend at such attractions.
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ABOUT ME
I began this website primarily as a way to present the story of how I accomplished a century ride on an adult tricycle. Other riders of adult trikes might want to know whether it’s possible. It sure is! You can read all about it in My Story.
I live in New Orleans; and retired in January 2023. More time for cycling!
Website designed by Cecile Levert
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DISCLAIMER
I am not a cycling coach; nor a health professional. This site is based on my own experiences, opinions, etc. If you need help, please consult the appropriate professional.
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