21 comfortable miles

Yesterday I took my bike to REI and asked a bunch of questions about the comfort of my ride.  I found out my seat was quite a bit too low and I needed my handle bars adjusted.  Adjustments were made and the test ride around Portland felt good, but I needed to put more time in the saddle to really see if the adjustments were going to help.  Today I got that time in the saddle!

I mapped out a 21 mile loop that went around Battle Ground, to Hockinson, down to Vancouver, and back to Battle Ground.  It was such a beautiful day!  82 degrees, blue sky, view of Mt. Saint Helens, Mt. Hood, and Mt. Adams.  On rides like this I can't help but imagine what the scenery will be like on my month long ride through Western Washington, the San Juan Islands, possibly Vancouver Island, and the Washington coast (still working on the route).

The adjustments made at REI yesterday were a success!  I rode 20 of the 21 miles before my butt started hurting much at all.  On my last few rides I was getting sore after only 6 or 7 miles.  I think after I get more time on the road I will be able to ride 35-40 miles without too much discomfort.  I was thinking about it on my ride today and I realized that I'm not racing this summer.  If I need to stop and rest and take in the scenery every 25 miles or so I can.  I'm not in any hurry.  This is supposed to be fun and relaxing, and it will be.  I am in control of that.  After all it would be a shame if I didn't stop and take in the scenery and/or take a picture or two to share with friends and family.

What a great ride!  Can't wait to get back on my bike!