Day 88…. In Salt Lake City I had the pleasure of meeting Sheri at the AirBNB. She was kind enough to invite me back to stay in Castro Valley, CA. Well today it was the goal to ride from Sacremento and Castro Valley. At 106 miles and 1427 feet of climbing this is the longest distance I have traveled on a fully loaded touring fat bike. Centuries are no small feat on a road bike. Add 110 lbs to that on a fat bike, 100+ degree heat and the game changes completely.
This ride went very well for the first 60 miles. Energy levels were pretty good, the heat wasn’t to bad and it was enjoyable. The day started with the following. 100 ounces of water, 2- 23 ounce coconut waters and another 33 oz bottle in between my bars. Within the first 45 miles I stopped and refilled my 100 oz with ice and new water, a couple more coconut waters and a cold, cold Iced tea for myself. Tea is extremely refreshing during a hot ride. The second time I stopped was around 75 miles. Refilling everything again, then eating ice for over a half hour to cool off.
For the last 25 miles I stopped frequently to douse myself with water to cool off and find shade to cool down for a short bit. Between the high temperatures and the dry heat it is hard to drink enough to feel satisfied. Out of the 3 gallons of fluid I drank today, everything was sweated out. No need to pee for the entire day. Which as much as I tried to drink enough to pee, it never happened.
I happen to run into a road sign with my families name on it.
After being on the bike from 8 am until 7 pm, I was sore, dehydrated, hungry and getting tired. But I was finally at Sheri’s for the evening.
