Day 14

DONE!  Arrived in Reno early this afternoon without incident.  It was a clear, cloudless day that became quite hot.  It was, in some ways, an easy day: about 97 miles, only two significant climbs (neither of which was terrible), and generally flat enough for groups to form and stay together.  Given the likelihood that there would be hot weather, it was advisable to go out fast, stick together, and get as far down the road as far and as fast as possible.  And, that is what occurred which was a very good thing because it began to scorch.  But, as I said we all made it, safely and smoothly.

It is so interesting to note the dramatically different topography and the starkly different flora than we were amongst just a few days ago.  The striking transformation speaks to the speed and the distance that we have traveled.  The high desert country in which we have been the last couple of days is so stark and majestic in a way markedly different from our OR and WA days.  It was nice to be there but it is nice being here as well.

My bike is packed and ready to be shipped.  To mention the bike reminds me how well it performed.  Zero flats, the wheels held up well, and the mechanics functioned flawlessly.  Two minor issues presented themselves:  first, there is a bit of annoyance involving my BB in that the connection to the FSA BB from the TI seemed to lead to a little creaking that was not catastrophic but annoying.  The other matter is that this bike is not quite the descender the Colnago is.  Its front end is a little loose and it does not track as well as I would like.  Since, this was the first time I had ever had this machine in big mountains, it was a little surprising and not a little offputting.  Still, it is a comfortable ride and I am glad I brought it.

This was a very good, a very rigorous event. The route was excellent and interesting throughout.  As impressive was the quality of the riders.  It was such a strong and skilled group and all pleasant and nice to be around.  I feel privileged and pleased to have been here.