Today was my first ride back on the MTB in five weeks, due to mechanical problems and going on holidays. With all my long road rides, I feel that I have increased endurance although with decreased power. I was hoping to be able to keep up with my MTB buddies with all the training although it didn’t happen as usual, and it was mostly all on the short climbs where I lacked the power. Having said this, I got three PB’s from historical data, going up Pioneer Women’s Trail from Waterfall Gully Rd, down Blue Gums in Eagle Park, and also the Pioneer Women’s Track downhill! So, a mix of uphill and downhill improvement, despite not having touched my MTB for five weeks. I did disappoint myself by chickening out of a drop-off on the black diamond entrance into Eagle Park, although I was quite on edge to begin with, not being used to the feel of the MTB any more. I had a car park ride on Nick’s new 29er carbon hard tail, and on Tim’s 26 duallie. Both were incredibly nice, and I’m thinking of upgrading the MTB steed sooner rather than later, to the 29er carbon hard tail. Approx. $600 cheaper than a rear suspension equivalent, lighter, possibly more efficient, and not subject to the usual hard tail back aches from 26 inch wheels and alloy frames. Also easier to clean and maintain than a duallie. A tough call!
Dean came uncomfortably close to this brown snake. He stopped and then noticed it right next to him.
