Day 15- Shelby to Havre (106 miles)

Out into the Great Plains. The rolling hills make for fast biking. We are hoping for many days of tail wind (from the west). Started that day. But later the wind came out of the northeat and we fought our way the last 50 miles to Havre.

This is our second 100 miler. A number of our folks said they were bored as they rode. The plains with the two lane road maybe the reason.

Better get over it. We've got a lot more.

Distance: 107 miles
Climb: 1626
Time: 6:35
Ave Speed 16.3 mph
Calories burned: 7000

Day 14-East Glacier MT to Shelby MT

Leaving the mountains was bittersweet. We've been in the Rockies for last four days since entering Idaho. Now we say goodbye to the Rockies for the Great Plains of Montana.

But each place has it's charm. The Great Plains are massive, rolling and vast. It's bigger that the Rockies. If full of history. Lewis and Clark navigated them on the great rivers. We saw a marker showing Camp Disappointment, (check it out on Wikipedia).


The great challenge of the plains is the heat and lack of places to stop for water. Today, is was 93 degress F. It felt so good to wet down my jersey and my helmut. The 22 mph speed of the bicycle cools quickly through evaporation.

Distance: 72 miles
Time Biked: 407
Ave. Speed : 17
Climbed: 616 ft
Overall distance: 862 miles
Overall climbed: 37526

Day 13- Day of Rest in Glacier Park

After an intimate time of worship and pray just among the team, we spent a wonderful day in God's creation. What a great sabbath rest.

Glacier park is... are you tired of hearing it... beautiful.



Becky is collecting wildflowers, photographically. She loves flowers the variety is boggling her mind.

Day 12- Columbia Falls to East Glacier

We spent a great time with the folks of Our Savior Lutheran church and our wonderful hosts Mary and Norm Hagen. Columbia Falls is at the foot of the range of mountains that borders Glacier National Park. It was great to wake up at the Hagens and see the mountains a quarter mile away.


















Then is was off to the Glacier Park and Marais pass. After a short ride from Columbia Falls to Glacier west, we took a short side trip into the park to see Lake McDonald.


From West Glacier we crossed the southern end of the an up the 5200 ft pass. It also happens to be the continental divide.

















The group was particularly gratified to make this pass. It seems harder than all the others we did. Maybe it was the 95 plus degree heat.

Day 11-Eureka to Columbia Falls

Today I caught up on chocolate milkshakes. They are the best food for restoring glycogen in the muscles!

Day 10 Libby MT to Eureka MT

From Libby we followed Route 37 all the way to Eureka. It runs by the Koocanusa (kooh-can-oosa) lake, which is a formed by the Libby Dam. The dams provides hydroelectric power for the whole region. We had the wind at our back nearly the whole way, which is great for bikers. The word Koocanusa comes from the Kootenai River, Canada and USA. The lake is formed from the Kootenai River and extends from Canada to the US.

The climate is again changing from the more lush mountains to drier rolling hills surrounded by mountains. Today, Becky saw a bear cub along the side of the road and I saw a deer.

















The riders are now breaking into very distinct group. There is the faster group made up mostly by Paul Bayfield, Tom Philips, Zach Chapin and Arek Karagoezian. I stay with them in the mountains but on the flats, I don't need to work that hard. Then there is Stewart Rowell and Dan Chapin. Bring up the rear is Jonny and Fionna Young, Bryan Blomker and Mike Scott. There aren't fixed groups as Bryan and Mike and I ride with all the groups.

Today we were welcome the the 1st Baptist Church in Eureka. Pat the pastor and his team rolled out a very good potluck.

Distance: 69.5 miles
Climb: 3743 ft
Total time: 6:38
Riding Time: 5:00
Ave. Speed: 13.2 mph
Max Speed: 35.9
Calories: 25480
Overall distance: 646.7 miles
Overall Climb: 3169 feet

Day 9-Clark Fork ID to Libby MT

Perhaps the most beautiful day we've had. The run north along the Bull River was stunning. The wetlands were a lush green foreground for the Cabinet Wilderness Area.

Last night, we stayed at the "Filling Station," a youth center that was built by a visionary group of people to help bring the Gospel to the youth of their town.

Distance: 91 miles
Climb: 3593 ft
Total Time:
Bike Time: 4:15 h
Ave. Speed: 13.2 mph
Max speed:
Calories: 4547

Day 8 Newport WA to Clarks Fort ID

We completed our traverse of Washington and entered Idaho. The relatively short 59 miles took us along the Pend Oreille River, through the towns of Priest River and Sandpoint were we had lunch on the shores of lake Pend Oreille. As I was in this part of the country in 1976-7 when I worked in the Pack River saw mill in Coeur d'Alene.

I have always loved this area. The mountains and lakes are breathtaking. The hydroelectric dams and power plants blend right in with the scenery showing very little environmental impact.

Yesterday, we received a very enthusiastic welcome from the people of the 1st Baptist Church of Newport, who housed us, feed us and like everyone we've stayed with, showed great interest in our ride and the ministries for which we are raising money.

The team is doing very well. All 11 of us, me included, has worked out the initial stiffness in our legs caused by climbing 24,000 feet in five days. Becky is really being a great help in our support van, providing food, water and tools when we need them.

Tomorrow, we cross into Montana were we will be for next 10 days. (It's a big country).

Distance: 59.2 miles
Climb: 1500 ft
Total Time: 5:23
Bike time: 3:59
Ave Speed 14.7mph
Max Speed 41 mph
Calories burned 3000
Overall Distance: 506 miles

Day 7 Colville to Newport

Today was a relatively long day 0f 96 miles. The ride began with a climb out of the valley up in to the high plateau. But is was a beautiful ride through the Twin Lake area and along the Little Pend Oreille River. It is some of the most beautiful country that we've seen. The rolling mountains are covered in trees (Ponderosa Pine, Lodgepole Pine, Douglas Fir, Aspen, Western Red Cedar, White fir).

We went south along the Pend Oreille river and had stiff headwind. One group of riders went as a team and did a fine pace line that got them to Newport at 3:55 p.m. I rolled in 45 minutes later, having enjoyed some scenery at a Forest Service campground as well as 10 minutes of stretching out in the sun.

Total Distance: 96 miles
Total riding time: 6:51
Total time: 8:46
Average Speed 13.9
Total Climb:2912

Over all distance: 447 miles
Over all climb: 22773

Day 6 - Day of Rest in Colville

On Sunday we spent a very nice day with Dee Hokom, Bob Simeone and their daughter Alysson. Colville WA is in a valley surrounded by low forested mountains. In the afternoon Bob took us for an hour ride (just loosen up the muscles).

Our host church, the United Church of Christ of Colville provided a very warm welcome. We worshipped with them on Sunday Morning. Tammy, the pastor led a very good service that showed the love that they have for God and for each other.

Day 5 - Republic to Colville

From Republic it was an 18 mile climb to Sherman Pass ( 5575 ft). The overall climb was 3000 ft. From the top of the pass it was nearly all downhill until the Columbia River. Going up to the pass, we passed through an old forest fire. The trees are coming back in, just like God intended through the seeds from the serotinous cones of the lodge pole pine and other shade intolerant species.
The ride down was through beautiful forested area with a stream running along the road (or I should say the road was built along the stream). We had lunch along the Columbia River and had a very short swim as the water was really cold.

I had to perform a repair on a new generation bottom bracket today. I'd never pulled one apart, but it went back together and adjusted just fine.





Total Distance: 60.11 miles
Total Climb:3672 ft
Total Time: 7:40
Bike Time:
Max Speed: 39. 8 mph
Calories:
Trip Distance: 342 miles
Over all Climbed: 19862 feet

Day 4 - Riverside to Republic WA

Last night in Riverside we were part of a area wide youth event complete with band. We got to tell what we are doing by riding across and America. People were really excited to hear that we are all working to bring the message of Jesus to the young people of Europe and the Middle East. In every town, people have been encouraged by our stories of what God is doing through YFC.

After a good night's sleep in was off again up yet another pass. This makes four passes in three days. Another 3500 ft climb to the top of Wauconda Pass. The scenery is still stunning. Ponderosa pine and sage brush with dry hills all around. Descending from the pass we saw a return to more forests filled with Douglas Fir.

Republic is a historic mining town with a typical western downtown mainstreet.

Total Distance: 55.7
Total Climb: 3500
Total time: 6:06
Bike Time: 4:33
Calories: 3428

Day 3 - Twisp to Riverside

Today we started from Twisp which is on the eastern side of Northern Cascades National Park. The scenery has changed remarkablely from the green lush forests of the Cascades to the semi arid zone of the the northern-mid Washington. It's like being in a cowboy western because we are in the cattle range of Washington. We came through the Colville United Tribes Reservation for native Americans. It's over 1 million acres.

So, it was out of Twisp and up to the Loup Loup Pass (4020). We climbed 3500 feet and then down the into the town of Okanagon and on to the to Riverside where we were well taken care of by the people of New Life Church.

Total Distance: 47.76
Total Climb: 3500 ft
Total Time: 7:30
Calories: 3428

Day 2-Marblemount to Twisp

Today we climbed 7000 feet to cross two passes: Rainy Pass (4400ft) and Washington Pass (5600 ft). It was hard work but great fun. Then there was the exhilarating ride down the other side of the pass... 20 miles down. Another pass tomorrow! And hey no saddle sores. It's all in the shorts.

Everyone is doing well and made it over the pass. That's a good sign for the whole trip.

We passed through a rebuilt "Old West" town called Winthrop yesterday. It inspired "The Virginian. It was like stepping back in time to cowboy days. (There are lots of cowboys here).

We're staying in Twisp, (an Indian word meaning "yellow jacket" ... the wasp). The pastor os Calvary Baptist Church organized our stay and we were very snugg where we staying. Thank you Pastor Smith.

Total Distance: 97.7
Total Time biked: 6h52
Total Climb: 7100 feet
Max speed: 49.7 mph
Calories burned: 7300
Weather: started over cast but became beautiful sunny day.

Day 1 Anacortes to Marblemount

The morning, overcast but dry. After the customary dip of the rear wheel in the Pacific Ocean, we rode out of Anacortes en masse. The terrain was flat until we entered the Skagit River Valley. As we went along the river the terrain rolled and climbed to about 600 FAS (feet above sea level.) The beautiful river valley is surrounded by mountains covered with Western Red Center, spruce, big-leaf maple, ferns and red alder.

The short climb into Marblemount brought us to North Cascade Community Church. The folks of this church gave us a warm welcome. We were fed and housed by people in the chuch. Our host, Lewis and Carol tucked us into their cozy place were we had warm showers. Lewis is great artist and works in all mediums including blue glass wine bottles.

End of the great first day.

Total distance 81.6 miles
Total climb 2200 feet
Calories burned; 5093
Time riding 5h 32

Day 0-Anacortes

We've arrived at Anacortes Washington. This is a beautiful forested island in the northern western part of Washington on the Puget Sound. We're surrounded by the ocean blue waters of the Pacific and the Sound. Fishing boats, sail boats and ocean kayaks/canoes ply the tidal waters of the area. The wind and currents make navigation a real challenge.

The sun is shining and burning off the fog that settles in off the sound. This is an old fishing town that in the 1950's began home to several oil fineries. But more recently , it is popular with retirees from California and people wanting vacation homes.

We're staying with Penny and Bruce Rustad. They are a part of Anacortes Christian Church, who is sponsoring our depart. Thank you Penny and Bruce for taking us around and sharing you home.

Today we assemble our bikes, have our first group meeting for orientation and share our first meal together. Whoa, Paul Bayfield, one our rider just walked...first time I've met him. TTFN.

A Ride Around Lake Forest Park

Becky joined me on Thursday and we stayed at the home of Neil and Jan Nieuwenhuis. They the parents of Peter and Caryn Cornelisse, friends from Westlake. We had a really great time with them. They showed us their warm hospitality, which I'm sure is their gift. We had a great time of fellowship and heard much wisdom from this great Christian couple. Thank you Neil and Jan for a wonderful time!

I got up real early and installed my bike computer and went out for a ride in Lake Forest Park. I rode for about 45 minutes and did 8 miles (now I'm in miles). Hey, it's really hilly here. I did over 900 feet of climbing in only 45 minutes.

I'm now at the Seattle airport where we're picking up other riders for C2C.

Only two days now!

Total Distance : 8.3 miles
Total time: 45 minutes
Total climb: 925
Sunny/partly cloudy
Temp: 55F

Clothes: short sleeve jersey and riding shorts but with a windproof shirt longsleeved shirt under the jersey, long leg warmers and a windproof jacket.

R & E Cycles

I arrived in Seattle six hours late because of storms across the mid-west that caused havoc with my flight. That is story in itself, but I'm not complaining. I pleased with the professionalism of the pilot in dealing with natural flight obstructions. Well done Alaska Airlines.

So, today I'm visiting R & E Cycles, the shop in Seattle that made my Rainier. I'm actually sitting in a Tully's Coffee shop down the street squatting on their free wifi.

My cross country machine is in for it's 1000 mile check: true the wheels (although they don't need truing. The front is as straight as when it arrived and the rear I already trued once), check the joints and the rest of the gear. I'll pick up tires and tubes and spokes for the trip.

It will be a pleasure to meet Scott Rock who guided me through the ordering process.

More about it later.

Home in Urbana

On Tuesday I flew from Geneva to Urbana Illinois to spend a couple of days with my mom. It was nice.  I also visited my father's grave for the first time.  Very emotional.

Now, I'm on my way to Chicago Ohare to fly to Seattle.  I visit R & E Cycles, where I bought my Rainer to have it checkout after it's first 1000 miles, and to pick up tire and tubes.  

Wow, I'm getting excited.  I can't believe it's almost here.  I keep thinking how I'm going to feel in two weeks.  

Last Ride In Switzerland

Today I went out and stretched my legs a little by going from Nyon to Rolle and back. The first half was on the Route du Vignoble. The return was on the Route du lac. There was a moderate "bise" of about 15 kph.

But, after the ride I took the bike a part and put it in it's travel case. It's a pretty slick machine.

Distance: 24.5k
Time: 1h05
Temp: 15 C
Partly Sunny

Total training miles since July 2007: 3325.5 kms, 2078 miles

Nyon-St.Cergue and Back

On an overcast day I squeezed in a mountain climb. Nyon (421m)to St. Cergue (1061m) is about 640 meters but is more because those are a few spots that descend.

Distance: 36m
Time 2h
Temp: 15C (but felt really cold on the way down).

Nyon-Aubonne and Back

A training run to Aubonne and back. Nothing special.

Distance: 36kms
Time 1h25

Cyclotour du Leman

Yesterday I did the Cyclotour du Leman-Mountain loop. This is a "popular" ride (meaning its for anyone) that had four routes. I decided, for training purposes to do the mountain loop (the blue loop). Even through they had provision stops, I used the Rodriguez, with my trunk bag. While it put me at a decided disadvantage with the others who mostly used pure racing/road bikes, I still had a great time.

I rode the 120 kms in 6h30 not including stops. The total climbing was 2000 meters. It had two sections that had about 19% grade...the steepest I've seen.

Feel good this morning.

Total Distance for the day: 130 kms
Total time for the ride: 6h30
Total Climbed: 2000 m
Temperature: 14-22 C

Total ridden since last July : 3229kms / 2018 mi
Total ridden since January : 1819 kms /1130 mi

John Duncan and Richard Burton

After a YFC board meetingon Tuesday night, John and I went for a great ride in the hills of Ouest Lemanique (the Western part of Lake Geneva), he on my Cannondale Bad Boy and me on my new favorite Rodriguez Rainier. We headed out on the Route de Vignoble toward Lausanne. But after a few kms, we turned west to Vich and South toward Geneva (we wanted to come back with the wind).

We passed through Trelex, Cheserex, passed by the Golf course of Bonmont, through La Rippe and onto toward Divonne on the high cycle path at the foot of the Jura.

Then is was back toward Nyon passing through Chavannes de Bogis, Bogis-Bossey, Celigny. It was there I mentioned to John that is was there where Richard Burton was buried. He wanted to see the grave so down we went to the cemetery. My 700x25C tires had no problem on the gravel path.

Pictures were taken in front of Burton's grave. And an added piece of memorabilia, we saw Alistair MacClean's grave.

Distance: 40kms
Time: 1h47
Average Speed: 22.3kph
Altitude gain: 444m
Temp: 20 C
Overcase/partly cloudy/drizzly

Col de Marchairuz 1449 Meters

So, after the col defeated me last fall, I decided that today would be the day to try again. The Col de Marchairuz in one of the higher passes in the Jura. It is closed all winter. From Nyon it is a 1020 meter (4700 feet) climb.

This time the bike and the rider where up the challenge. My trusty Kestrel with it's new triple front crank would have made it if I'd had legs last fall...but alas I had no legs.

Today was different. My Rodriguez cross country bike is geared equally as low. I felt strong all the way to the top. I only stopped in St. George long enough to fill my water bottle at the local fountain.

The ride back and down was through the beautiful Jura Natural reserve.

Total Distance: 58 kms
Total Time: 3h08
Total Altitude gain: 1130 meters
Mostly Cloudy, with light drizzle part of the way.

Nyon-Signale de Bougy and Back

Out the Route de Vignoble. The climb up to Signale de Bougy via Bursin, Gilly, Tartegnin, Bugaux.

Distance: 30 km
Time: 1h20
Temp: 20

Nyon-Fechy and Back

Out the Route de Vignoble to Fechy and back

Distance: 31km
Time: 1:17

Temperature: 20 C

St. Cergue-The Vich and Begnins Way

Off with Fredrik Sunesson to St. Cergue. This time through Vich and Begnins.

Beautiful Day
Distance: 36.00
Atitude Gain: 800 meters
Time: 1:58:50
Wind: 22-40 kph
Sunny to Partly Cloudy

Interlaken

During an au pair trip, I stretched my legs for about an hour on an mountain bike. Only 13 kms but it was a change.

Total Distance: 13 km
Total Time Riding: 1h15

Nyon, Bonmont, Crassier, Divonne, Versonnex, Genthod

Needing to pick a van for a weekend retreat, I decided to ride instead of drive. So off I went up to Trelex and across the base of the Jura to Versonnex in France. Then down to Collex Bossey and Genthod.

Distance: 34 km
Time: 1 h 32 min
Altitude gain: 426 m
Temp: 22
Skies: Cloudy, little wind

Total Training distance: 1806 kms / 2891 miles
Total on the Rainier: 840 miles

Nyon, Aubonne, Lavigny, Etoy, Rolle, Nyon

A new route for me. I went from Nyon to Aubonne on the Route du Vignoble to dodge the rain (it was in the southeast). But from Aubonne I continued to Lavigny, and then to Villars sous Yens. Then is was down to Etoy and back on the Route du Lac.

Distance: 47.3 km

Time: 1h 57 min

Total Altitude gain: 500 m

Temp: 22

Sky: Partly cloudy and rainy

Villeneuve-Yvoire

The second day of the bike trip, we went from Villeneuve to Yvoir.  It was a short 58 kilometers.  The route was only slightly rolling.

Distance: 58 km

Temp: 23-24 C

Sky:  Started clear, went to cloudy with rain and then partly cloudy

Nyon-Villeneuve

Around Lake Geneva, almost.  Nyon to Yvoire is 138 Kms out of 180.  This was a YFC-Interyouth trip meant to raise funds for a local charity by the students of the international schools.  One more in my long series of bike trips with young people. 

Nyon to Villeneuve on the Suisse Bike route one, gave us 

Total Distance : 87.5

Time: 4h32 minutes

Sky: Partly cloudy

Temp: 23 celsius

An Old Friend

Today I rode an old friend. For 20 years, when I wanted a good workout close to home, it was up to St. Cergue via Arzier from Nyon. It's 16 kms climb nearly 700 meters (2300 ft). It is a nearly continual climb from 421m to 1041m. A few downhill stretches bring the climb to 681 m.

There are some steep bits that early in the season I don't make. But today, no problem.

Then the fun ride down the 14 kms back home.

Total Distance: 31.5 kms
Total climb: 681 m
Total time: 1h 40 min.
Temp: 21 C
Clothes: Assos shorts, Blue Jersey

Wind: N 15 kph
Sky: Sunny/partly cloudy

Bise Workout

First time on the bike in ten days (had a work trip to the States).  With a strong "bises" (pronounced "bees", the north wind) I got a good workout (20 mph gusting to 30) in my face.  

I went through Prangins and caught "Red Route 1" to Rolle and then came back on the Route du Lac. 

In spite of the wind, the temp. was warm, so for  the first time since last September I wore cycling shorts and a short sleeved jersey. I've worn long sleeves all fall and winter. 

Distance: 27 km

Time: 1h11 minutes

Temperature: 19

Altitude gain: 130

Coppet Commute

With a meeting with a colleague at 9:30 I finished some work at home and set out on the Lake Road.  21 miniutes later I was in Coppet for our meeting.

Today we had an Interyouth Bike Trip (May 10-11)  planning meeting.  After that it was back to Nyon for a lunch meeting of the Worship Arts Committee for Westlake.

Total Distance: 20 km

Total time: 47 minutes

Temp: 16 deg. C

Sky: Partly Cloudy

Wind: North 5kph 

La Cote and Terre Sainte

With it threatening to rain, I set out north on the Route de Vignoble hoping to get to Aubonne.  But as I passed Gland, the clouds were dark ahead I could see the rain falling.  

So just before Luin I climbed up to Begnins.  Then it was the traverse over to La Cezille and Genolier, before heading to Trelex.  In Trelex I climbed up the road that leads to Gingins and Cheserex.  From Chexerex I continued to follow the contour to just below La Rippe where I turned down to Crassier.  A Crassier I went to Bogis-Bossey for a short talk and drink with Craig and Sharon Bentzen.  

Then it was under the autoroute toward Celigny.  On to Crans, through Eysins brought me back to Nyon.

Total Distance 35km

Total climb 300 m

total time riding 1h29m

Temp: 15 degrees C

Sky: Overcast and light drizzle

Commute the "over and down" Way

Off to the office in light drizzle.  I had a little extra time so I went up from our house through the Changins Experimental Agriculture Station, accross to the Route de Divonne, up to Signy, across to Borex and then Crassier.  From Crassier I started down to Coppet passing through Bogis-Bossey, Chavannes de Bogis, and Commugny.

The return was as the end of the afternoon on the Route du Lac.  

Total Distance: 27.50 km

Total Time: 1h 10 minutes

Wind: 5 km S

Sky: Overcase and light drizzle

Temperature: 10 degrees Celsius

Pick up a Bus

We go away on retreat tomorrow.  I needed to pick up a mini-bus for transporation.  So, off to Genthod on the Lake Road. A little light drizzle and 12 degree temp made it pleasant.

Total Distance: 16.5km

Total Time: 40 minutes

Total miles since July 2007: 1578

Total kilometers since July 2007: 2525

Total miles on the Rainier: 611 

Geneva and Back

After a morning's work, I took off to have lunch with Lassi Turri at the Manora in Geneva.  To drive would have taken me 30 minutes.  Biking it took an acceptable 60 minutes.  

The ride there was along the Route du Lac (flat-ski).  I discovered that there is a great bike path that goes past the airport.

The ride back I when the country/scenic route.  Not much longer, but I it goes right by the office (only took 30 minutes).  I worked the afternoon and rode home.

Total Distance: 54 kms

Total time 2h 15 minutes

Altitude gain: 411

Average speed: 23 kph

Total training mileage: 2508 kms/1567 mi

Fechy and Back

I haven't ridden since April 5 because I was away at a conference last week.  It rained Monday.  So, after the rain stopped today and the roads dried out, I got in a short 32 km ride.  North on the Route de Vignoble to Fechy and back.

Total Distance: 32km

Total Time 1h 20 minutes

Wind: 10 km SE

Sky: partly cloudy

Temperature: 14 degress Celsius

Altitude gain: 170 meters

Big Day: 102 Km & 1215 Meters up

A beautiful spring day, and a Saturday to boot...perfect for a longer ride.  So off I went on the Route de Vignoble to the north toward Aubonne.  I thougth I might do 80 km today so I continued on to Lavigny and Cossonay.  Cossonay is only 72 km round-trip.  

So I kept on going  to La Sarraz, 42 km one-way.  But then I had the choice to either return by the same way I just did (which I only do if I have to) or do something new and different.  Since La Sarraz was already new and different (I'd never cycled there before) I decided for the different way. So, down toward Morges and return along Lake Geneva, or up along the foot of the Jura mountains?  

Up it was.  Up toward the Col de Mollendruz.  On to Ferrerey, Moiry and L'Isle.  I've been in L'Isle and instead of going down toward Ballens, I went up to Montricher.  At Montricher I continued along the foot of the Jura past Mollens, Berolle arriving in Biere.

In Biere I continued on to Gimel.  But instead of my normal route from Gimel which would take me to Longirod, I decided I'd had enough climbing for one day (already 950 meters) I opted to go toward Rolle.  So past  St. Oyens and the road to Signale de Bougy down toward Rolle.   I took the road to Bugnaux and Tartegnin.   Normally I go up this road, so today it was nice to go down on to Mont-sur-Rolle, Bursins, Vinzel and Luins.  

Seeing that I would be not make 100 Kms by out 4 kms, I decided to climb up Vich from Luins.  From Vich I went to Coinsins, Trelex, Gingins, and Cheserex.  

Finally down from Cheserex through Grens, Signy, and Eysins, I arrived in home in Nyon having done 102 kms.    A good day.  Now I know that I'm ready for the first day out of Anacortes Washington on June 17.  It will be about the same distance, and a good climb as well.

Total Distance: 102.26kms

Total Altitude gain: 1215 meters ( 4000 feet) not all at once, but total gain during the ride)

Total time: 4h36"

Average Speed: 22.2 kph (not bad considering all the climbing)

Temperature: 7-13 degrees C

Wind: 5-10 kms SW

Sky: Bright sun, partly cloudy

Nyon - Lavigny and Back

April Fools Day didn't keep me off the roads on a partially cloudy day. So I donned the least amount of cycling gear (windproof cycling tights, long-sleeved jersey, fingerless gloves, helmet, socks and cycling shoes) since last fall.  A light north wind had me out on the Route de Vignoble through the villages of Prangins, Vich, Luins, Vinzel, Burisin, Mont-sur-Rolle, Perroy, Fechy, Aubonne, to end in Lavigny.    

The road is rolling with the only really steep bit that goes between Aubonne and Lavigny.   

Distance: 40.38 kms

Total Time: 1h39 minutes

Total Altitude gain: 395 m

Ave speed: 24.4 kms

Temperature: 15 degrees C

Wind: N 10 kph 

Day 80 - Steep Climb to Chatel

Today being a beautiful sunny day,  I dared go up a very steep road up to the small hamlet of Chatel.  My ride started at home in Nyon.  I went north (because of the north wind) out onto the Route de Vignoble.  Riding  by Vich, Luins, Vinzel and Bursins took me to the climb up to Gilly and Tartegnin.  From there I passed through Bugnaux and then onto the steep moutain road up to Chatel.

There is one switchback before reaching the first Jura plateau.   From their I headed toward Begnins by taking a forest service road.  The road was paved all the way.  The hightest point was on this road going through the forest. 

From there is was down to Begnins , then on to La Cezille, Genolier, Duillier and Nyon.

Total Distance: 39 kms

Total Altitude gained: 719 meters

Total time: 2h 4 minutes

Temperature: 14 degrees C

Wind: From the north at 15 kph

Sunny to partly cloudy

Day 84 - Climb to Bonmont

Another cloudy, windy day with light snow flurries.  But that's no reason not to ride.  So off to the south (south wind) I went.  

From in front of Novartis I started to ride up to Duillier but then cut through the Changins agriculture research station.  After arriving in Asse and I headed toward Gingins.  Once in Gingins I went up the road toward La Barillette.  Intending to cut down toward Geneva from the Barillette road I climbed until the snow stopped me.  There was 10 inches of unplowed snow on the road.  So back down to Cheserex, then to Tranche Pied and La Rippe.  From La Rippe the nice descent to Borex and on to Bogis Bossey.  On to Chavannes de Bogis, Commugny, Tannay Mies, Versoix.  

Then the Route du Lac to Nyon.

Distance: 42

Vertical gain: 469 meters

Time:  2h 5 minutes

Average speed: 19.6 kph

Temperature: 4-5 degrees C

Wind: 20 kph from the South

Overcast with snow flurries (more over the Jura)

Day 86 - Nyon - Denens and Back

Even though it was cloudy, the sun was just peaking through enough for a ride at 4:00 p.m.  So out onto the Route de Vignoble I went.  Wind was changeable as I started on a west wind, so going north was fine, but it veered to the southwest.  

Then began some intermitant drizzle, but my Rodriguez Rainier was built for all conditions with it's Phil Wood hubs and bottle bracket and fenders, so on I went.  I arrive in Aubonne, and went on to Denens.  After  nice cup of tea and an almond cookie at the Rizzos I returned to Nyon.

Now the drizzle stopped and the clouds parted, leaving me with a few minutes of bright sun.  The sun slowly dipped behind the Jura mountains.   Fortunately I brought my flashing rear light and all the cars passing gave me wide berth since they saw not only my bright yellow wind breaker, but by flashing/strobe rear light.

Distance: 52 Kms

Total height gained:  555 meters

Total time: 2h 8 minutes

Temp: 3-5 degress Celsius

Wind: 3-10 kph

Weather: partly cloudly, drizzle, sun

Day 90 - Office and Back

Off to the office. Bise at my back.

Home for a late lunch. Bise in my face.

Total Distance: 20 kms
Total Time: 50 minutes
Temperature: 4 degrees Celsius
Wind: 25 kph from the North
Altitude gain: 100 meters
Partly cloudy

Day 91 - Bise in my Face: Nyon- Aubonne and Back

With a strong "bise" (pronounced beez) wind in my face, I sent out again for Aubonne. The Route de Vignoble was dry and in good condition. And 40 kms later I got back to Nyon, no worse for the wear.

Total Time: 1h30 minutes
Distance: 41.5 km
Altitude gain: 365 meters
Temperature: 12 degress Celsius
Partly Cloudy

Day 94- The Rodriguez is in Switzerland: Nyon Aubonne and back

After my trip to the States, I packed up my Rodriquez in it's suitcase sized airline case and brought it to Switzerland. It went back together without a hitch including the rear rack and trunk bag. So after filling the tires, off I went on the Route de Vignoble to Aubonne.

Once in Aubonne I went down to he Route du Lac and back toward Nyon. Once past Gland, I turned right at the small regional airport and climbed up to Duillier. I went through Duillier and then the back way through the Changins agricultural station.

Distance: 41.90 kms
Altutude gained: 349 Meters (1,150 ft)
Time: 1h 46"
Tempurature 16 degress Celsius
Wind: NE 14 kph
Sunny but party cloudy

Day 101- South First is Really Rough

I set off south on Philo Road and continued past Windsor onto South Philo Road (CR 1450 E.) Turned right onto E. Curtis Road (CR 1300N) and then right onto south Race Street (CR 1350E). At CR 900 N I turned west and turned south onto CR1200E (South First).

South First is a very rough road and it shook my wrists and shoulders to death. I hope it was good to hardening me up. I doubt I'll go that way a again.

At CR300N I turned east and rode to CR1500E. Then I turned north, jogged left and right at Old Church Road (CR1200N) onto S. Philo and went home.

Time: 1h50"
Distance:  25 Miles
Temperature 40 degrees F
Wind: 10 Mph W

March 1-Dad's Last Day

Cycling has always been a way for me to help manage stress and emotions.  So it was natural on the day when I needed some moments alone that I would go out and spend 1h 50 min on my bike.

This morning, my father died after a nearly one year of battle with pancreatic cancer. Thankfully he never had pain associated with the cancer. He did have restlessness and discomfort toward the end.

But Dad showed us example of faith because to the end, he was courageous and resolute in his belief that, "I know where I'm going and I know who's going with me."  This is the joy of the message of Christ, that "whoever believes in me, even though he die, yet will he live." The knowledge that though he "is absent from body"... he is "a home with the Lord" brings great peace and comfort.

So, with this knowledge I had the peace, to go out. I wanted to both collect my thoughts and profit from the warm, dry day.

So I headed out south on Philo Road and went to 200N. Back to Windsor and 1400N, with a half mile jog east, gave me 25 miles.

Total distance: 25 miles
Temperature: 45 degrees
Slightly overcast
Light southeast wind.

Out for an Hour

Now four days after being in the States to be with family during my father's illness, I manage another short ride.

After a snowy day on Thursday, time permitted me to go out for a little hour ride south on Philo Road. I jogged right one mile to south Race Street and continued to 900N.

Total Miles: 13
Total Time: 1 hour
Tempurture: 33 degrees Fahrenheit
Wind: West, 25 mph
Melting snow in fields
Water flowing in ditches
Minor local flooding

25 degrees Fahrenheit and back into the Wind

Now in the States visiting my family. My father is still battling his pancreatic cancer. It's great to be here. But it's great to have a bike to ride, my new Rodriguez that I received in December came out of its suitcase and went together in half and hour.

It rides so well. A nice firm but forgiving feel. The shifting is so smooth in spite of its thirty gears.

So, back to the flat lands around Urbana. I went frm the house to Philo Road (CR 1450 E) out Windsor Road (CR 1400N). Just past Highcross Rd (CR 1600 E) I stopped and checked the wind. I thought it was pretty much out of the N so I went on figuring that I'd have this wind 90 degrees to my right side coming back.

CR 1400N jogs north at CR 2150 E (6.5 miles from Philo Road) to Homer lake Road (CR 14500 N which becomes 1400 N). I was going at a nice pace so I continued on to CR 2700 E. That was far enough so I turned around.

Surprise! The wind was WNW and not N, so I have a 25 degree, 20 mile and hour wind virtually in my face. I thought I might get cold, but my new Pearl Izumi fluorescent yellow wind jacket did the job and I didn't need to call for help ( I thought I might). I could feel the wind on my arms, but I didn't get chilled. I also rode with no water (forgot to fill the bottle).

But no worse for the wear and because I hammered to get back out of the cold, I got a really good workout.

Totaly distance 26 miles
Time: 2 hours
Tempurture: 25 Fahrenheit
Clear to party cloudy with cumulus
Wind 20 mph from WNW
Clothes : Loefler windproof tights, socks, NB cycling shoes, over booties, Odlo full-length wind shirt, Loeffler full-length cycling jersey, Pearl Isumi Wind jacket, Loeffler wind hat, helmet, Windproof medium weight gloves.

1000 meter Climb

Sunday rides are usually more relaxed, but today I decided – en route – to do a little more climbing. So it was off to Gimel via the Route de Vignoble: in Bursin up to Gilly, Gilly up to Tartegnin, past Bugnaux and on to Mont Dessus and Gimel.

From Gimel on to Longirod, Marchissy, Le Vaud, Bassins and Le Muids. Then the climb up through Arzier to St. Cergue rounded out the nearly 1000 meters of climbing.

It's the first time I've been to St. Cergue for a while, since the roads have been too snowy and icy.

Then the nice long 13 km descent to Nyon.

Distance: 53 kms
Altitude gain: 950 meters
Time: 2hr 50 minutes
Temperature: 9 degrees Celsius
Sunny and Hazy
Nearly calm

Coppet Commute

Another day to the office and back.

Road wet and muddy. (I had to spend 45 minutes cleaning the bike afterwards.

20 kms
8 degrees

Out and Back

A simple ride from Nyon out the Route de Vignoble to Fechy (home of a well known local Swiss wine: Fechy) and back

Distance: 30.65kms
Time: 1h14mins
Average speed: 24.5 km/h
Weather: clear and sunny
Temperature: 5.5degrees Celsius
Wind: east 10km/h

Nyon-Rolle-Lake Route Back

A really nice day. So out on the Route de Vignoble toward Rolle. Just before Perroy I turned toward the Lake on the marked Swiss route 1 bike path. Down to the Route du lac and then back through Rolle, and Gland. Just before Prangins, the ramp road climbs up into Prangins.

Had to ride around Prangins once to get my 30 kms

Distance 30 kms
Time
Ave speed 24 km/hr
Temperature: 6 degrees Celsius
Weather Clear

8 Km Walk

Sunday was a beautiful crisp day. So a two hour walk took Becky and I around the Nyon area.

Walking's good too!

Climb to Gimel and on to Longirod

A beautiful sunny winter day had me out on the Route de Vignoble, to Vich, through Luins, Vinzel and up to Bursins. From Bursins it was up to Gilly, Tartegnin to catch the cantonal road up to Gimel. I passed the road leading to Signal d Bougy, which I went by on Monday. After the climb up the Gimel I continued the climb to Longirod (896 meters altitude). Then the dash down through Marchissy before climbing back up the Le Vaud and down through the valley leading to the climb back up the Le Muids. Then the final descent through Genolier, and Duillier before arriving at Nyon

Distance 40.5 kms
Time: 1h55 miniutes
Temperature: 6 decreasing to 4 degrees.
Highest point: Longirond 895 meters
Overall climb to Longirod 471 meters or 1554 feet (a lot more counting all the other ups and downs)

Coppet Commune

Once more, biking to work and back gave me a good, though flat workout.

Distance: 20 kms
Temperature 7 degrees celsius

Signal de Bougy

A ride out of Nyon on the Route de Vignoble takes you to Aubonne after 15 kms. From there its a 20 minutes climb up to Signale de Bougy. You get a nice view of the whole Lake Geneva region.

Then is down through Tartegnin, Mont-sur-Rolle, Bursin, Vinzel, Luins, Vich, and back to Nyon.

Distance: 38.8 Kms
Time: 1h 50min
Temperature: 5 degrees celsius
Altitude: 700 m

Climb to Bassins

Only an hour and 8 minutes doesn't give much time for a good workout. But a hill climb helps. So out of Nyon on the Route de Vignoble too Vich. A climb up to Begnins, through La Cezille, and on up to Bassins. A quick traverse through the valley toward Le Muids and down to Genolier through Duillier and back to Nyon.

Distance: 23.3 kms
Time: 1h 8 minutes
Altitude: 750 meters
Total climb to Bassins: 330 meters (1089 feet)
Temp: 8 degrees celcius

Variation on a theme

The wind was again out of the South, but I set out north on the route de Vignoble until the "giratoire" at Vich. Northwest at the circle to Vich and southwest to Coinsin, Trelex, Gingins, Cheserex, Crassier. Then a straight shot back on the route cantonal from Crassier to Eysins and Nyon.

Distance 22.91 Kms
Time: 1:00.17
Temperature: 3.5 degrees celsius

Coppet-Gland-Nyon

So...I got busy yesterday afternoon and didn't bike home. After work took the bike back. But since yesterday was short, I decided to go farther. So from Coppet I went to Gland. I went all the way to the far end of Gland to the circle the Lake route (16km)

Back to Nyon past Pont Farbel and the little airfield in Gland and through Prangins.

Distance 22 kms
Total time 55 mins
Temperature 12 degrees celsius

Total for the week 52 kms (not much)

Foggy Coppet to Commute

This morning I donned cold weather biking clothes and headed off to work. It was about 0 celsius with dense fog. So it was out of our underground car garage, down Rte de l'Etraz and back up the hill into the center of Nyon for a morning cup of coffee and croissant. 10 minutes later I was back on Place de la Gare to Avenue Reverdil, left onto Route de Clementy and down onto the Route du Lac south toward Coppet. The 10 km passed quickly but damply. My glasses fogged up so I looked out over the top of the then, letting then slide down my nose a bit. Fortunately, I'm only slighly myopic.

With front and rear light flashing, I made it quite safely to the office. Most of the way is on bike path along the Route due Lac.

Distance: 10km
Temperature: morning 0 celsisu, afternoon 8 celsius
Weather: morning fog

First Trip to Chevry France

A nice dry overcast day. Light wind from the south. So off I went to the north for three kms on the Route de Vignoble before turning south to Duillier after passing through Prangins. Then is was the climb from Duillier to Trelex, the relatively flat, but pleasantly hilly traverse to Gingins, Cheserex, Crassier.

At Crassier I crossed the border into France and began the climb to Gex, doing through Divonne. From Gex it was on to Chevry. At Chevery I turned east and down toward Ferney Voltaire, going through the Veraz, Bretigny, Villars-Tacon and Ornex.

In Ferney Voltaire I crossed back into Switzerland, and went the backroads above Versoix to Mies. Then on to Tannay and down
the lake road through Coppet, Founex, Celigny, Crans, Nyon.

60 kms
Total time 2 hours 43 minutes
Temperature 10 degrees celsius
Climb: 421 m in Nyon to 621 m in Gex

A Little Drizzle Never Hurt Anyone

The south looked fine and sunny, so I donned my kit and set out. But it was chillier and drizzlier than I expected. After a few minutes of warm up I felt fine (thanks to my windproof cycling clothes). So off to the north only to turn around back south to head into the wind. From our house onto the Route de Vignoble, through Prangins, up to Duillier, then on to Trelex, Gingins, Cheserex, Crassier, Bogis-Bossey, Chavannes de Bogis, past the woods of Chavannes, down through Mies to Tannay and then back on the Route du Lac south past Coppet, Founex, Celigny, Crans arriving in Nyon.

Total Distance : 37
Total Time: 1h 38 minutes
Weather: Light rain, 100% humidity
Temperature: 5 degrees Celsuis

Back in the Saddle

After a three week rest because of snow and travel, the weather cleared for a few hours and I hit the road. Back on my Kestrel after 150 miles on the new Rodriguez. This 1994 bike still rides like a dream (especially with it's new 3 chain ring front crankset).

So, off to the north on the Route de Vignoble, passing Prangins, toward Gland/Vich. But with the wind coming out of the north, I climbed up to Duillier just after Prangins and when back south. So it was through Trelex, Cheserex, Crassier and then accross the border to France. On to Divonne, passed the Casino, to Arber, Gilly, and Sauverny. At Sauverny, I crossed back into Switzerland and headed to Chavannes de Bogis, Bogis Bossey, Arnex Eysins before getting back to Nyon.

Total distance 37.00 kms
Total time: 1h30 min
Temperature: 6 degrees Celsius

Around Urbana-Champaign

My home town is really two towns, Urbana and Champaign. Together and including the University of Illinois Student population their are about 150,000 people. So it's not very big.

I've not lived in U-C since 1976 when I graduated from the U of I. While I was a school I cycled many miles all around the area. But today, I decided to bike all the way around the town. So I set out from my house at 2206 Combes St. and rode the half mile to the corner of Windsor Road and Philo Road. I went east from there to High Cross Road and then north about 7 miles to Ford-Harris Road. Now west 8 miles took me to Staley Road. South on Staley to Windsor and east on Windsor to Philo Road.

I got a really nice view of the fields surrounding the area.

Distance: 32 miles
Weather: Clear, 38 degrees F

Christmas Day Ride

My family gave me a about an hour on Christmas day to have a ride. So, I went from my house to Windsor Road and then west on Windsor to First Street. South on First street about 6 miles brought me to Country Road 900 North. Then two miles east over to Race street, north six miles and back home.

Got a beautiful view of the south side of Urbana.

Distance: 14 miles or 22 kms
Weather: Clear, South wind about 20mph.

First Street to the County Line and Back

Today I again went south but this time, Windsor to First, then First South to the County Line Road about 14 miles. Then two miles east to 1350 E. and back north 14 miles. 1350 N. becomes Race Street. Back on Windsor.

Distance 32 miles or 51 kms
Weather, party cloudy and 30 mph south wind.

East to Vermillion County Line

Today I from my house out to Windsor Road East to the one mile past the Vermillion county line. North four miles brought me just north of Interstate 74. Back west to 1 mile East of St. Joseph then south one mile to Illinois 150. West on 150 to Homer Lake Road and then west to High Cross Road. South on High Cross to Windsor and then west back home.

Distance: 36 miles
Weather: Clear, 28 degress F.

New Bike- New Miles

My new bike that I've helped to design and ordered for the trip came yesterday. It's a Rodriguez Rainier, from Seattle Washington. It has two S & & joints that allow the bike frame to be taken down into two parts. Then the whole bike can be taken in a suitcase. It went together like a dream with no problems.

So today I headed out of Urbana and onto the country roads, straight south to Villa Grove. I haven't biked so in Illinois for over 20 years. It was nice to be back. But, it's flat, so the cardo workout has to come from pushing bigger gears.

Mileage: 38 miles
Temperature: average 30 degrees F
Clear skies
North wind (15mph)

No Bike- Off to the pool

Still no bike, so it's off the the Urbana Aquatic center for 1200 meters. It's good to do something different. Still, I got a good workout.

No Biking-Weights and Orbital

In the States with family and have no bike. So it's into the University of Illinois Intramural building for a full weight workout and 30 minutes on the orbital. Hopefully will have the new bike next week.

Riding With Johnny Howe

I usually ride alone, because I squeeze my rides into a busy schedule. But today I went with a friend from church who is an avid rider. Even though he said he's not been riding for several months we still had a good quick paced ride. We average 25kph even though we rode on the hilly "Route de "Vignoble" from Nyon to Fechy and back. (If you want to see the route, go to www.viamichlin.com and type in Nyon Switzerland as the start and Fechy Switzerland as the end and it will give you our route).

I find that when I ride with someone else, I keep my pace up higher and more consistently than when I ride along. We traded draft a bit and at the end I was at the head. Johnny urged on up that last hill as I stood on the pedals, riding out of the seat. We ended having had a good training ride.

Distance 33 kms.
Time just over an hour.
Weather-cold, sunny, clear 10-14 degrees.

Total for the week: 55kms

Terre Sainte Loop

Today, because of the stiff south wind I headed southest from Nyon, through the Changins Agricultural station, up thorugh Asse toward Trelex, then on to Gingin, Cheserex. From there I headed up to the Abbey de Bonmont (there is nice golf course there) and caught a cyclable foot path called "Jura Crete." It turned nearly straight south to La Rippe. From there I headed down to Crassier, hitting 55kph, on then on to Bogis-Bossey, Chavannes de Bogis and passing La Chataigneraie, Founex, Commugny and Coppet.

In Coppet I took the "Route du Lac" back to Nyon.

Total distance: 37kms
Total Climb: 421m to 600m
Weather: overcast, 7 celcius, wind s 20 kph

Nyon-Basssins and Back

Today I did an hour and a half by climbing from Nyon (406 meters) to Bassin (750 meters) traversing the villages of Duilliers, Coinsins, Genolier (passing by the world famous Clnique de Genolier) Le Muids and ending in Bassins. It's a continual climb of just 1000 ft vertical and nearly 15 kilmeters. The direction is north west so I had a headwind on the way up.

The descend was through La Cezille, Genolier, Duiller, but only 11 kms. Wind at my back.

Total distance 26 kms.
Weather: overcast, temperature 8 celcius
Wind: Bise (north) 25kph

Good work out

Rainy Day- In door training

Back on the Airdyne- 11.6 miles or 18.56 kms- 38 minutes

Nyon-Cheserex-Aubonne-Nyon - 47kms

Cold today, below freezing. So I donned nearly all my cold weather biking great including heavy gloves and neoprene over shoes.

The "bises" (local French jargon for strong north wind) was blowing today so after going to downtown Nyon for Saturday morning men's group, then to Cheserex (west from Nyon) to set-up for our church's twentieth anniversary, I headed north to Aubonne and then back to Nyon. Coming down the hill out of Aubonne with the wind at by back, I hit nearly 55kph. I averaged better than 20 kph for the whole ride.

Indoor cycling

Spent 35 minutes on our stationary bike as it got too wet to ride on the Friday afternoon. But I still got in a good bit of exercise as we have a Schwinn Airdyne that is both a stationary bike but also an upper body trainer that simulates cross-country skiing. 35 minutes at nearly 70 rpm is more than enough for me to break a sweat.

Hopefully, back on the bike tomorrow.

10 miles on the Airdyne = about 16 kms

Ballynahinch Stage Two

Got another 20 miles in around Ballynahinch. This time it was alone. I did the 20 miles circuit by doing some dead recogning. It was cold (0 Celsuis).

Tomorrow, maybe Portstewart.

Ballynahinch

On a business to trip to Northern Ireland to see John Duncan, the European Area Director for YFC, he and I did twenty miles in the beautiful NI countryside around Ballynahinch.

I felt really good and got my confidence restored aftering "bonking" (cyclist talk for running out of energy) on Thursday. The vintage Olmo that John had fit me well and I really enjoyed our ride.

Maybe more tomorrow.

Climb to St. Cergue

Thursday at lunch I went up to St. Cergue (1047 meters, Nyon 406= 641 meter climb). It's 16kms from my house and 17 down going through Arzier.

It was a very warm climb. I had to shed my hat, windproof undershirt and light gloves. But at the top, it was quite cold, so back on went all I'd shed.

I thought it would be no problem to climb, but I was wrong. That 34kms has wiped me out for several days. I think I had not drunk enough water before I went and had not eaten enough in the days previous including that morning. I found it quite discouraging. But I'll be back on bike this weekend. We'll see how I do.

Commute the back way

Commuted to Coppet the back way- Nyon, Crans, Celigny, La Chataigneraie, Commugny, Coppet - but via the roads above the lake route through farms and vineyards.

Return home on the Lake Route

24kms.

Vic Jakobsen

It's interesting to see that for many, faith and and fitness go together. Vic Jakobsen, a faithful servant of God cycles an hour every day. So I biked half and hour to meet him (to Tannay), bikee an hour and ten minutes with him and then a half an hour back home. (26 km there are back and another 20 with Vic).

46 km today.

254 km total for the week

Commuting Training

Riding to work, amateur cyclists do it to reclaim time. So I'm no exception. Yesterday I got in 28 kms and today another 20 kms. Part of the ride yesterday was a ride to lunch at Chavannes Center...only 12 minutes up and 10 minutes back...8km round trip.

So the weeks total so far is 208 kms.

First Century

An around Lake Geneve ride yielded 160 km (Genthod, Geneva, Thonon, Evian, Le Bouveret, Montreux, Lausanne, Morges, Rolle, Nyon). To get 160km I had to go past Nyon 3kms.

130 kms equals 83 miles, so here is the first time I've done the average day's distance that we'll do everyday next summer. Finishing the century was icing on the cake.

Good challenge. Felt fine afterward, except I think I need to invest in good, wrap-around riding glasses. My eyes are wind burned in spite of wearing my aviator sunglasses.

80 K Week

The week started with a 47km ride on Sunday from Nyon to Tartegnin to Gimel and back.

Monday I went from Nyon to Geneva - 20km

Friday, picked up a van for a weekend retreat and decided to ride 16 Km

Nyon-Aubonne and Back

So, after my 22 kms of hiking in Zermatt last weekend I discovered that cycling does not condition the legs for hard walking. My quads and calves were so sore on Monday and Tuesday.

I rode the 10k to the office on Tuesday morning on the Cannondale Bad Boy. I would have done ten more on the way home from the office, but I got a slow leak. Must have been a spine from a horsechestnut husk. But that's all fixed.

So, today I did 36 kms roundtrip from Nyon to Aubonne. Good stiff north wind (called the "bises" [beeze]) going out. Wind at your back is always fun (average 36kph on the way back.

Total for the week 46kms. Fewer than I hoped for.

Zermatt Weekend

This weekend I didn't cycle. But I did walk about 22 kms. Still a pretty good workout for the legs and back.

Pays de Gex

A Nice two hour ride in the late afternoon took me from Nyon to Gex (France) and back. The route: Nyon, Duillier, Trelex, Gingins, Cheserex, La Rippe, St. Gix (via a small forgotten road above La Rippe crossing with not douane into France), Gex, Cessy, Sauverny, Chavannes des Bois, Chavannes de Bogis, Bogis-Bossey, Arnex, Eysins, Nyon)

Highest point, Gex 630 meters
Distance, 47 kms.
Time: 2 hrs 2 minutes

October 1st Light Ride

After the hard right on Saturday of 43 kms and 1100 meters vertical relief, I took it easy today and did little 20 km loop in my backyard: Signy, Trelex, Genolier, Coinsins, Duililer. It's goes from 421 meters at our place to the highest spot of 547 meters Genolier, a leisurely 120 meter climb. It's just enough to stretch and loosen the muscles.

Climb to La Barillette

An ascent to the top of La Barillette, 1523 meters in elevation, It was eleven hundred meters of climb over 20 kms. 853 meters was in the last 10 kilometers. I believe that's a 8.53% slope, very steep for cycling. Total ride on Saturday: 43 kms.

Sunday Dash

Today did a short 25 Kms trip from Nyon to Coppet along the lake route and back through the hills between Coppet, Founex, La Chataigneriaz, Celigny, Crans, Nyon. Total of 45 kms for the week.

Jura Step

A nice 87 kms loop (route: Nyon, Aubonne, Cossonay, L'Isle, Bierre, Gimel, Longirod, Le Vaud, Bassins, Le Muid, Genoliers, Duilliers, Nyon) along the Route de Vignoble, up onto the Jura Step. For the most part rolling with fast descents into the river valleys and slow climbs out of each. Total kms for the week 122.

Route de Vignoble:Nyon- Aubonne and back

Rode with Frederick Sunesson to the Movepick Cave first and then on to Aubonne along the Route the Vignoble. Route: Nyon, Vich Circle, Luin, Vinzel, Bursinel, Tartagnin, Mont-sur-Rolle, Fechy, Aubonne, and return. Nyon-Aubonne, 20 kms, Aubonne, Nyon,19 kms. Total for the week. 59 kms

Col de Marchairuz

Today, went to within 4 Kms of Col de Marchairuz. Turned around at 1250 meter. Total trip 52 kms. Total weeks riding 105kms

New Triple

After 13 years, my venerable Kestrel 200SCI got a new drive train. I found a Campagnolo Record Triple Crankset for half price on eBay. Got a new Centaur Long cage rear derailleur on eBay as well. New front derailleur, new chain, and new rear cog. From 53-39 to 53-42-30/13-26.

New life for a trusty bike.

St. Cergue Direct

For the first time in two years, I climbed up from Nyon to St. Cergue (1060 meters). Route was Nyon, direct to St. Cergue passing Signy. Descent via Arzier and Genolier. Ascent distance, 13 kms, descent, 18 kms.

Nyon-La Rippe,

Back on the bike after too long. Route: Nyon, Eysins, Arnex, Borex, Crassier, La Rippe, Bonmont, Gingins, Trelex, Nyon. About 25 kms.

Paul's Trip Log

Please come back to this page and see more about my training and preparations for the trip. Then from June 17 to August 15, come buy to see regular trip logs and pictures (I hope).

See you soon!

Paul