bikejournal.com journal

4/2/2012
(Mon)

51.32

24.50

04:02:52

12.68

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Bluebells Are Blooming Ride. We took off about 8:30am and dropped off a couple of pieces of mail (including Adam's wedding RSVP)in the box by Krogers. Then on to the trail where we spotted our first rabbit of the season and tons of robins and flickers. Gorgeous blooming dogwoods, crabapple, cherry, and redbuds all along the way. I saw a garter snake on Heron's Pond loop and a couple of redtailed hawks also. We encountered 4 recumbent trikes riding together going under Brice Rd. and caught up to an older gentleman riding a faired BikeE. He told us he had 68,000 miles on it! We rode over to Old Bag O' Nails for lunch then back through the neighborhoods for a few extra rounding miles.

The route for today may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/9e38p

Weather Conditions: Cloudy and cold to start with temps in the low 40s and winds out of the NE at 10-15 mph. Then clearing skies and temps rising into the low 50s.

4/7/2012
(Sat)

50.17

32.28

03:36:47

13.89

Road: Hills

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Fungi Found in Forest Ride. Mar was preparing for our Passover Seder tonight and said I could help by getting out of her way. Accepting her suggestion I called Phil and we decided to ride east on this cool but beautiful April day. I rode out at about 9am and headed down Milnor where I only saw one vehicle-a FedEx truck. I got to Phil's and we took off down Heimberger enjoying the bright sunshine and cool temps. We chatted about MyTracks the app for our android phones that I use to create the Google Maps for this blog. Phil has been trying it out but had never posted his results to Google. I talked about the new Evo coming in June and Phil talked about deciding not to buy a tablet any time soon. Other subjects included flying cars and live webcams showing bird nests around America. We had very little wind on our way out to Lake Rd and passed an idle wind turbine on Bickel Church right before Millersport Rd. We headed south toward Pleasantville and marveled at some of the nice views on this amazingly clear day. We shot over to Carroll Eastern and worked our way back passing a couple of other bikers just past Stringtown Rd. We saw an 18 inch piece of rebar here on the road. Incredibly we spotted another nearly identical piece on the road on Coakley near Basil Western. We saw a wild turkey and a large doe on the road coming back. I parted ways with Phil at Stoudertown and headed back. On Carroll Northern I spotted 4 turkey buzzards perched on an old barn warming their wings in the sun. I headed over to Diley and came back on the trail. Today's ride may be found Here: http://g.co/maps/ymef5

Weather Conditions: Clear skies and cold start in the upper 30s. Warming into the upper 40s and winds picking up out of the NE late.

4/8/2012
(Sun)

50.35

24.50

03:59:40

12.61

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Passover Lunch Ride. We took off about 9:30am and rode on over to the trail. Cloudy cool weather gave way to sunshine as we got to Glacier Noll. We biked over to Refugee Rd to see how the construction of the new trail was coming. We parked the tandem at the end of the trail and walked the path that eventually goes under the railroad bride. There, just on the other side of the bridge under Refugee Rd was the graded and marked bike trail looking very close to being paved. We turned around and walked back to the bike to continue our ride. We rode on down to Berwick and stopped to visit Lori and Mom who is visiting for the holiday. Then over to Marc and Jessica's in Bexley to see the baby's room and their new changing table and crib from Joanna. We took off to begin the return trip and stopped at Confluence Park to enjoy a Passover lunch which Mar had packed. Salami sandwiches on delicious Passover rolls which Mar baked last night. Then we rolled back home enjoying a tailwind which picked up as we went. Today's route may be found here: http://g.co/maps/u9ssw

Weather Conditions: Upper 40s and cloudy to start then partly cloudy and warm temps in the mid 50s. Winds out of the WNW at 15-20 mph.

4/11/2012
(Wed)

20.11

26.00

01:39:04

12.18

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Chilly Ride to State Farm. Cloudy, windy and cold this morning but we wanted to get a ride in. We took off just after 10am and headed down Diley and over to Canal Winchester. We stopped in to see Janet at State Farm and chatted for a few minutes. We began discussions about riding the trail down to Cincinnati this summer and have started talking with Phil about this. We then rode down to WalMart before turning around an heading home.

Our route is to be found here:

http://g.co/maps/53p99

Weather Conditions: Cold and Cloudy with winds out of the WNW at 15mph and temps in the upper 30s.

4/12/2012
(Thu)

58.86

32.00

04:32:02

12.98

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Matzoh Meal Biscuits in Johnson Park Ride. We took off just after 8:30am and met up with Phil on his Goldrush at Palmer and Smoke. As we rode into Pataskala we all began to notice a horrible acrid smell in the air. This odor was evident all the way to Hebron and at times made our eyes water. Along the canal near the fish hatchery we all spotted a branch with leaves moving along the water. As we got closer we saw a muskrat swimming with this prize. As soon as he saw us he let go and dove quickly out of sight. Lots of large turtles sunning themselves on logs today. We saw some planting be done in the fields and a few tractors riding on the road. We stopped in Baltimore at Johnson Park where Phil used to coach softball teams. We had packed our Passover lunch of salami sandwiches on matzoh meal rolls that Mar had baked last night. Very tasty! Then a return trip home along 158 and Leonard which was new to us.

This route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/vu83j

Weather Conditions: Cold start in the low 30s with sunning skies and light winds. Warming into the low 50s with mostly sunny skies later. Winds then picking up out of the NW at 5-10 mph.

4/15/2012
(Sun)

20.20

22.89

01:29:54

13.48

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: First Commute to CVS as a Floater. I've been working at my old store at Taylor and Main and had the chance to ride my bike to work today. So off I went at about 8:15am and headed out through the neighborhoods to 204 and then to Wagram. Traffic seemed especially heavy this morning but I encountered no problems. I spotted a FedEx plane heading for a landing at Rickenbacher on Mink. There was a bike behind me and followed me onto Refugee but I dropped him quickly. Amy cleared a nice spot in the back room for me and it was fun getting back into the weekend commuting routine at work. A bit of a wind heading back home but no big deal.

Weather Conditions: Warm near 60 and partly cloudy heading in and warmer near 80 with partly cloudy skies and winds out of the SSW at 10-15 coming home.

4/18/2012
(Wed)

51.07

26.00

03:48:56

13.38

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Camcorder Delivery Run. We took off at 9am and headed for the trail. We were really flying today aided a bit by a tailwind early but Mar seemed to be really strong. We were carrying my camcorder strapped on to the rear bike bag and were to deliver it to Marc. He will be using it on his trip to Poland coming up at the end of the week. We rolled along a sparsely traveled trail today in beautiful weather. Lots of flickers and a few squirrels along the way. We ran into Tom Frazier on his trike near Bixby. He had been ill but was very glad to be back on the trail riding. We saw many turtles bunched on some logs at Heron's Pond. Into Bexley we stopped at Marc's and dropped off the camera then proceeded through Capital's campus hearing many "Cool bike" like talk from the students we passed. Then down Main St. and back on the trail heading back. We biked over to Max and Erma's for "Free Cookie Wednesday" and had a great lunch of burgers, fries, and salads. Then back through the neighborhoods where we spotted John Schlitt working in his garage. We stopped to chat and Danielle came out as well. John and I decided to try and ride next Wednesday. Then back home after a wonderful ride. Today's route may be found here: http://g.co/maps/mkyah

Weather Conditions: Cloudy and cool to start with temps in the low 40s. Warming and clearing later with temps climbing into the low 50s and winds out of the east at 5-10 mph.

4/19/2012
(Thu)

57.80

31.00

04:26:09

13.03

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: New Record Rear Flat Fix. While Mar was getting ready I cleaned the bike, lubed the chain with White Lightning, greased the kickstand, and readjusted the front wheel so the disk breaks wouldn't chirp so much. We Rolled out at 9am on this near perfect day heading out Palmer to Pataskala. A quick stop at the Nutcracker then on to CVS for batteries for our rear light and bike computer. Then on to Hebron and along the canal where we counted dozens of turtles of all sizes and a heron on a limb. He took off as we approached and majestically flew off over the trees. Then over to Lakeside where I took a shot of an unusual wind turbine on a house by the lake. Then up through Millersport and over towards Baltimore where we ran into Chuck coming at us on Canal just past 37. We chatted for a few minutes then headed into town for lunch at Subway. We had lunch then went outside to get ready to leave and Chris came out to talk for a while. Then up the alley and over to Basil Western. As we made the turn in front of an oncoming car we began to fishtail and I somehow made the turn then stopped to check out our rear wheel. The tire was nearly flat which made the turn feel as though it were on ice!. We pulled up under a tree and we removed the wheel and tire. We heard a chattering above our heads and looked up to see a little downy woodpecker just 4 feet above checking us out. I pulled the tube and replaced it, pumped with the Road Morph then topped it off with a canister of CO2. Then Mar lifted the rear of the bike as I replaced it and hooked up the chain. All in all Mar timed me at 20 minutes which is a new record for us. Back on the bike we rolled back to Canal and Meijer then up the trail and home. A superb ride even with the flat tire.

Our route today may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/xr826

Weather Conditions: Near 50 to start and mid 70s at finish with mostly clear skies and light winds out of the south.

4/22/2012
(Sun)

35.26

30.50

02:46:30

12.71

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: To the Nutcracker for Sunday Breakfast. I dropped Stephanie off at the airport this morning.She was here for Jessica's baby shower this weekend. We took off just before 9am and decided to ride to Pataskala for breakfast at the Nutcracker. The weather was cold and cloudy as we rode out Palmer to Smoke. There we spotted a yard sale and stopped after seeing a Burley child bike trailer in the driveway. We pulled in to the driveway and Mar asked the lady how much. She said $20 and we said sold. It has some mildew or mold on the side panels which we will try to eliminate or buy replacements. The frame looks good. Mar bought some other stuff such as scrapbooking stamps and Longerberger baskets. Then off to breakfast. We enjoyed blueberry pancakes and eggs for a ridiculously cheap $13 and change. Then off to Reynoldsburg along Refugee where we saw the recently sheared Alpaca. The wind began to pick up at our backs and we flew down Firstgate and Ridenour all the way to Lancaster Rd. Then over to the trail and back through the park to Tussing where we wove our way over to the Marcus shopping center and then home.

Today's route may be found here"

http://g.co/maps/2q2wn

Weather Conditions: Cold lower 40s and cloudy skies with light winds early increasing to 10-15 mph out of the ENE later.

4/24/2012
(Tue)

37.81

24.50

02:41:42

14.03

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Turtles on Heron's Pond Ride. We took off about 9:15am and headed for the trail. While still in the neighborhood we were treated to a low flyover of a cooper's hawk just before the pond. Then on to the trail as the wind blew in our faces. We rolled along in the sunshine seeing no one at Glacier Knoll except the ranger mowing. We pedaled on into 3 Creeks and Heron's Pond where we spotted a mass of turtles on a limb floating in the pond. Then on to Oxbow Loop where 3 deer were grazing at the opening to the woods. We headed back with the wind now at our back and really picked up speed. We saw Chuck on the bridge over Big Walnut and stopped to chat. Then on back to Glacier Knoll. As we turned on Bowen Marilyn spotted a bunch of turkey buzzards flying excitingly overhead. There was one bird that was bigger than the rest and had a white head. Yep, this was a bald eagle having some sort of spat with the buzzards. We stopped for a few minutes to observe until he flew west and out of sight. Then we rolled down Long and over to Pizza Hut for lunch and then home.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/dsx3a

Weather Conditions: Cool and windy with bright sunny skies temps in the lower 40s to start and upper 40s to end. Winds out of the west at 15-20 mph.

4/25/2012
(Wed)

56.16

27.50

04:04:58

13.76

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: John Schlitt training ride. We met John at about 8:30 this morning at his house and rolled out to Glacier Knoll. On Long Rd we saw a herd of deer on a hill overlooking the road. They saw us and took off running as we watched in amazement. We met Phil at the park and we continued on to the trail. John had to be back by around 11am so we made it to Oxbow loop and then headed back. We made good time as we pulled back into Pickerington. Phil packed up and said he would meet us at Subway in Baltimore where we had decided to continue our ride. We rode with John on Wright to Diley where we said goodbye to him. Then on into Picktown and 256 into Baltimore. We got to Subway at noon and got lunch as we waited for Phil who showed up after a few minutes. When we went back outside we saw a bicyclist pull up next to our bike. He was doing a loop to Millersport and Pataskala and asked the best way to get there. We just so happened to know this route well having done it a few hundred times. We gave him some advice and went on our way. We climbed out of Baltimore on Basil Northern to Stemen and then home having had a great ride.

Our route today may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/3mgdg

Weather Conditions: Cool start mid 40s and sunny skies with light winds out of the SSW. Turning mostly cloudy later with winds picking up out of the South at 15mph.

4/30/2012
(Mon)

43.11

27.07

03:07:15

13.81

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Ride with P&J to Baltimore. I took off about 8:30am and headed for Phil's house. Then Phil and Janet on their tandem rode with me east to Lake Rd then back Canal to Baltimore and Subway. Then along Basil Western where I noticed the new "Share the Road" signs Phil had told me about near Carroll Northern. Then back up Diley and home to get ready for work.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/gbp33

Weather Conditions: Cool start low 50s then quickly warming into the 60s with mostly clear skies and winds out of the South at about 10 mph.

5/9/2012
(Wed)

50.63

0.00

00:00:00

0.00

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments:

Weather Conditions:

5/9/2012
(Wed)

50.63

24.37

03:36:27

14.03

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Discover New Bridge over Blacklick Ride. Marilyn is in Italy with Steph so I took off alone just before 8am to meet Phil at Glacier Knoll. I got there before he did so I walked up to the observation deck and put the telescope on the osprey platform. There I spotted the mother osprey and one white chick in the nest. Then I saw Phil pulling in so I walked back and we headed out on the trail. We saw lots of birds today including bluebirds, warblers, goldfinch, baltimore oriole, egrets, herons, and a downy woodpecker. We also laughed as a frog jumped across the trail his long hind legs flopping as he flew into the grass. We rode to the end of the trail at Refugee Rd and saw that there was construction where the Long Rd bridge use to stand. Apparently, they are building a new bike bridge across Blacklick Creek as the bridge anchors were being worked on and a "Bridge Department" truck was parked there. We turned around and rode on down the trail seeing Tom Frazier and Chuck Frazier separately riding toward us. Then on to Bexley and a quick stop to see Marc. Then over through Capital University where we stopped briefly at the fountains. Then on back to the trail for a nice ride back to Glacier Knoll where I said goodbye to Phil and headed on home.

The route for today's ride may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/8j5zd

Weather Conditions: Cool start mostly cloudy and upper 50s with calm winds. Warming to mid 60s with partly cloudy skies and winds picking up from the west at 15mph.

5/14/2012
(Mon)

56.12

33.28

03:41:04

15.23

Road: Hills

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Slap Five It's My Fastest Ride. Marilyn in Venice, Phil babysitting so I was all by myself today. Took off at 9 am as the streets were drying from yesterdays all day rain. Seemed sluggish for the first few miles but then I picked up the pace and really started to fly. I attacked the hills after Pataskala and pulled over at Beaver Run and Outville to take a picture of the cornfield I'll be following this year. Just as I snapped the picture my bike fell over into said cornfield having been blown by the wind. No harm done I hopped back aboard and continued on to Hebron. After a brief stop at the fish hatchery I cruised along the canal and over to Millersport Road where I picked up a tail wind from the north that felt like the afterburners kicking in. 18 mph up the hill then 20-25mph all the way down to Canal. One of the best ride sections in memory. Then over towards Baltimore where I spotted a guy running on my side of the road coming right along side. At first he threw his right hand out as if to give me a wave "down low" but then he extended his hand out clearly wanting me to "slap five"! So I did with big smiles on both our faces as I went by. Then on to Subway and lunch. Chris asked about Mar and her trip and he told me about his home smoker. A guy sat down next to me and starting asking about my bike and my riding. We chatted for a while then it was time to head home. I really pushed myself to see if I could maintain at least a 15 mph average. I had 15.4 heading into the uphill turn on Diley and managed to hold it to 15.2 which is near the top average ever for me. A great ride and quite a workout today.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/vtxc2

Weather Conditions:

5/16/2012
(Wed)

51.10

23.91

03:41:54

13.82

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Turtle Egg Ride. Phil called to say Chuck and Bob were riding the trail so I met him at Glacier Knoll at about 8:30am. We rolled out on the trail and enjoyed chatting about some of the birds Phil has seen up at Lake Erie and in his back yard. Saw indigo bunting and came upon a flicker before he could take off. We rode down Ebright and over to the Groveport stub. Along the right side of the trail Phil spotted a large snapping turtle. As we approached we saw that she was in the process of digging a hole to lay her eggs. We observed for a few minutes and I took some pics. Then on down the trail to Bexley and then to the JCC where I stopped to sign up for AK Softball. Then walking the bikes on the bridge over Big Walnut we we looking at the huge debris piled up against the base of the bridge. That's when Phil saw the 2 foot black snake sunning himself on a 2 by 4. We jumped back on the trail and headed back as my allergies really started getting the best of me. The cottonwood seeds covered parts of the trail and every time we looked up against the dark background of the woods we saw the air thick with floating stuff. Even Phil started hacking and he doesn't usually have allergies. We stopped briefly at Confluence Park where Chuck pulled up having looked for us all morning. The three of us continued on together picking up a tail wind on the way back. We made it back to Glacier Knoll where I said goodbye to Chuck and Phil and headed home using that increasing breeze to my advantage.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/evdw9

Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy and warm with temps starting in the low 60s and rising to near 70. Winds light early then increasing to 10-15 mph.

5/17/2012
(Thu)

53.19

29.88

03:38:32

14.60

Road: Hills

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Lost Rail Car Ride. I met Phil at Doty and Stemen about 8:30am and we headed east on a bright sunny day. We headed up Basil then York to Palmer over to Swamp. There Phil pointed out an old rail car in serious disrepair on a farm. I wondered about its history as we rolled north into the increasingly strong wind. We worked our way over to Refugee and into Hebron and at stop at the fish hatchery. As we were leaving I looked down and found an arrow lying in the parking lot. Phil has told me about the archery range there but this was a good distance from there. We joked about the poem "I shot an arrow in the air, It fell to ground I know not where..." Lots of blue heron on the canal and a few large turtles sunning themselves. Then up to Millersport and over to Baltimore for lunch at Subway. We didn't dally too long as I had to get home to get to the airport to pick Marilyn up from her Italian trip by 1:35pm. Today's route may be found here: http://g.co/maps/jd4uf

Weather Conditions: Sunny and cool start upper 40s with light winds. Then winds picking up to 15mph out of the NE.

5/20/2012
(Sun)

54.18

25.36

03:42:45

14.59

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: North Market Ride. Mar had a jewelry show at the North Market today so I decided to ride down to see her. A very nice spring morning as I rode down Long to low peace sign salutes from oncoming motorcycles. Saw a coopers hawk fly overhead then land in a tree as I rode near Gender. Then cruising down toward US 33 I ran into Tom Frazier then further down toward Watkins Rd I ran into brother Chuck. I stopped to chat with each and then rolled on passing many walkers, runners, and bikers on this Sunday morning. I went over the bridge into Wolfe Park and over onto Broad St. Then west toward downtown. I love riding in town on Sunday mornings when the traffic is light and it seems as though I have the streets to myself. I pulled into the North Market just after 11am and parked next to Marilyn's booth. I went inside to get her an iced coffee and got myself a chicken salad sandwich at the deli. I talked to a guy wearing a Pelotonia jersey who had come from Glacier Knoll on his bike. He is from Lancaster and raved about our trail system here. Then time to head back so over to High St where I saw the remains of barriers from yesterday's Race for the Cure run. Then up Broad St again an over to the trail. Less traffic this way and I even spotted a deer in the woods just before the 104 underpass. The temps were now warming up and I stopped at Glacier Knoll for some water then on back home just stopping briefly to talk to the Robinsons who were out working on their yard.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/zqdm9

Weather Conditions: Warm low 60s to start and near 80 at finish. Partly cloudy skies with light winds out of the SSE

5/21/2012
(Mon)

35.25

30.50

02:39:34

13.25

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Breakfast at Old Canal. We hadn't ridden the tandem for a few weeks so it felt good to get back on. Marilyn had a lot to do today so we left just after 7am and headed to Millersport. It was nice to ride along Palmer like we used to do when we first started riding. We zoomed over to 204 from Cherry and rode on in to Millersport. Not much traffic and mostly downhill. We saw Terri when we got inside the restaurant and she smiled and told us to head on out to the deck and make ourselves comfy. We did and enjoyed a nice 2x2x2 breakfast with our blueberry pancakes. Then back Deep Cut and a quick ride back on Stemen.

Our route can be found here:

http://g.co/maps/hfk9a

Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy and upper 60s to start and low 70s at finish with mostly clear skies. Winds calm.

5/22/2012
(Tue)

32.17

28.00

02:28:02

13.04

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Old Covered Bridge Bike Route. We decided to get a short ride in before leaving on vacation today so we met Phil and Janet at their house and rolled south to US 33 where we crossed over and headed to Lockville. Then on towards Canal Winchester on what Phil calls the old "Covered Bridges Bike Route". We continued into Canal and then over to the bike trail where they were working on planting flowers to beautify the trail. Then over to Gender and Chase bank for Phil. Then down to Starbucks for coffee and scones before getting back on the trail to Cyclist Connection. I bought two 26" tubes and Mar found a new frame bag for our phones as our old one is getting pretty worn. Then on back to Diley where we said goodbye to P&J and headed home to pack and get on the road.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/avyhm

Weather Conditions: Cool and cloudy with temps in the low 60s and light winds out of the West.

5/23/2012
(Wed)

60.87

19.10

05:41:39

10.69

Off: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Allegheny River Trail-Franklin to Emlenton, Pa. We arrived here in Franklin, Pa. last night and are staying at the very nice Comfort Inn. Last night we at the McGinnis Pub which was in the basement of a grand old mansion here on Liberty St. This morning we ate the hotel breakfast and took off about 8 am. We rode the side streets for the 1.5 mile trip to the trail head which is just over the bridge on the other end of town. The morning was cloudy and a bit foggy but visibility was not bad. We headed south and rolled along on a near perfect surface of newly paved asphalt for a few miles. Then older asphalt which was still mostly smooth the rest of the way. The trail runs along the Allegheny River and we were treated to lovely vistas of forest, hillside, and river views. Three inch long millipedes appeared every so often crossing the trail which looked like sticks moving across the trail. Numerous chick-monks scurried in front of us as well as rabbit and groundhogs. We spotted a number of mule deer along the hillsides and on the trail. Lots of flickers, geese, ducks, and one heron flying low over the river were seen. Many trailside information signs dotted the trail giving the stories of the oil drilling legacy of this area. Now all that is mostly gone and nature has reclaimed the land. About 5 miles in we approached Belmar where the trail crosses the Sandy Creek Trail. Here a large bridge trestle crosses the river and carries the Sandy Creek Trail to the other side. We continue on for few more miles where the trail pavement ends and we had to walk almost a mile on a gravel road around an area where the trail has been blocked by land owners. On this road we passed many small houses and met Penny and Nickel, two friendly dogs and their owner who stopped us to chat for a few minutes. Then finally back on to the paved trail and a few more miles where we encountered our first tunnel of the day. This is the Kennerdell Tunnel. An old railroad tunnel 3800 feet long. We had our LED bike light which we hoped would light up our way but turned out to be insufficient. I suggested Marilyn use her EVO's flashlight app to supplement our lighting and this worked well. The pavement in the tunnel is flat and smooth and has reflectors on the edges and down the middle. This is what we used to navigate. We walked into the quickly darkening tunnel and soon were unable to see the other end. This was quite spooky at first but eventually as we continued to walk on through we got used to the darkness. After a while we began to see a glow in front of us and this was the other end. It turns out there is a turn at the end of the tunnel which precluded us from seeing the other end until we were close to it. It was quite a relief to ride out into the warm sunlight at the other end and continue o n out way. A few more miles down the path we hit the Rockland Tunnel which is 2800 feet long and also had a kink at the end. We were now pretty used to walking these cool, damp, tunnels and eventually we got back on the bike and worked our way into Emlenton. Here we stopped for lunch at the new restaurant (really the only restaurant) in town. An elderly lady came out of the front door and asked us if we had ridden the trail. She asked us in and we parked and went inside. She sat down at the next table and took our order after chatting for a few minutes about our ride. After a nice lunch we headed out and back on the trail for the return trip. We loved reeling in the miles back to Franklin along the tree lined trail. Back through tunnels and walking the connecting road we remarked about what a fine adventure this had been. We finished up back in town by hitting the local ice cream place the locals here call McDonalds.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/34r2p

Weather Conditions: Cool, cloudy and foggy start with temps in the upper 60s. Clearing mid ride to partly cloudy and temp in the mid 70s. Winds light and variable.

5/24/2012
(Thu)

39.31

20.50

03:11:58

12.29

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Sandy Creek Trail Ride. We packed up the van and headed to the trail head in Franklin. We took off at 8:30am and headed north to Oil City. This is called the Samuel Justus trail and runs along the Allegheny River where many oil derricks and refineries once stood. There were still a number of small oil pumps to be found right along the trail some still pumping oil as we passed. A large estate of Senator Silby called River Ridge Farm was a teaching farm and many of the buildings and artifacts still remain right next to the trail. We continued along the five miles to Oil City where we found the scenic campus of Clarion University at Venango.Then a quick turn around and we were headed back to Franklin and then continued on the same section as yesterday until we got to Belmar where we connected with the Sandy Creek Trail. This was quite a connection as it required us to roll the tandem up a steep bike ramp climbing about 50 feet or so. With the judicious use of brakes and much pushing and shoving we made it to the level of the trail. The reason for the climb is that the trail crosses the river here and is up at the bridge level. We took a quick run over the bridge taking in the spectacular views of both sides of the river. This bridge was built in 1907 for the railroad. Then we turned back east for a run along this old railroad bed which runs high along the hills of the Allegheny mountains. There was a bit of an upgrade as we rode over 8 bridges and through one tunnel. The bridges gave us beautiful views of the rolling creek below and also of trout fisherman trying their luck in the early morning sun. The Deep Valley tunnel is shorter than yesterday's tunnels and one can see the other end from the entrance. We saw a 12 inch snapping turtle right at the tunnel entrance. We proceeded through and enjoyed the ride. Then on to the end of the trail seeing a couple of deer on the trail ahead. They both took off when they saw us and bounded high in the air before heading into the woods on the hillside above. Then the turn around and a very fast return on the downhill run. We spotted a 14 inch black snake sunning on the trail. Right near the trailhead we stopped in to a bike shop and looked around. The shop's rear faced the trail and had a mural showing each town along the trail. Then back to the parking lot and packing up to head for Canada.

Today's route may be found here:

http://g.co/maps/vr2f8

Weather Conditions: Warm and partly cloudy temps in the upper 60s. Winds out of the SE at 10-15mph.

5/25/2012
(Fri)

30.27

28.00

02:22:40

12.73

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: CTR Friday Ice Cream Ride. We arrived in Perth, Ontario this afternoon and pulled in to the Best Western. We ran inside to see if our room was ready early which it wasn't. I went to the restroom and when I came out I noticed the tandem holding room was just across the hall. Being the curious sort, I peeked inside to see if anyone was parked there yet. What I saw made my jaw drop to the floor! Right in the middle of the room was Plum Crazy the Johnson's Screamer. I couldn't believe my eyes and I quickly called Marilyn over to make sure I wasn't hallucinating. Sure enough John and Kathi had pulled a fast one on us by saying they couldn't make this rally (as usual) this time because of a graduation. That was true but Kathi talked John into driving for nearly 20 hours from Wisconsin to surprise us and celebrate their 40th anniversary. We spotted them on the streets of Perth and it was hugs and smiles all around. We headed for lunch to catch up then got on the bikes to ride the ice cream route. We took off about 2pm and rolled out of town into the countryside fighting a determined headwind to start. We saw a miniature animal farm where we stopped to see the lamas, alpacas, cows, and horses. Then eventually a turn which brought the wind to our back and we flew on for quite a few miles with hardly any effort. We stopped at Balderson's for handmade ice cream and it was delicious. Then on back to the hotel alternately fighting a headwind and sidewind all the way back.

Today's route can be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/7ewc

Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy and warm with temps in the upper 70s and winds out of the SW at 15-20 mph.

5/26/2012
(Sat)

53.69

28.50

04:06:49

13.05

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Day 2 CTR 2012. We were ready to go early but the mass start wasn't until 9am so we just hung around after breakfast talking to folks and killing time. Then at 8:30am Marilyn went to the bike storage room to pull out the tandem. From around the corner I could hear her say "Gary, we have a flat". Sure enough, the rear tire was down on the ground. We took it outside around back and while Mar prepared the camcorder for the mass start, I was pulling the rear wheel and fixing the flat. John helped me by holding up the rear of the bike while I replaced the newly tubed tire. I rolled the bike to the front lot and ran inside the hotel to clean up. By the time I got back outside everyone was just about ready to roll. I shot the mass start and then we took off with the Johnsons who were waiting for us. We ran out of the city and quickly into the country on this picture perfect day. I read where Columbus was heading for record heat in the 90s today but here in Perth we are talking upper 60s and 70s. Good talk and nice roads as the kilometers klicked away. We did have to ride about 3 miles on gravel which wasn't real fun but we all got over it and rolled into Victoria Park for our lunch stop. Here in town there is a train museum which has a number of engines and cars on display. Some of the group even got to ride a railroad hand pump car down the tracks. Then lunch along the Rideau Canal. Emily the Vandeveldes daughter and Chris their son put together a wonderful cookout lunch of chicken, potatoes, asparagus, gespacho and cookies. We ate under a tree and everyone enjoyed the experience. Then on the return leg as we chatted about life and how lucky we are to be able to experience a day like today. A final stop in Rideau Ferry for ice cream and a drink at Rideau Ferry General Store. Then back to Perth and the hotel for some rest before tonight's dinner.

The route for today may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/Iel9

Weather Conditions: Mostly clear skies with temps early in the mid 60s rising into the low 70s late. Light winds.

5/27/2012
(Sun)

50.46

37.50

03:48:06

13.27

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Day 3 CTR 2012. After shooting the mass start we headed out with the Johnsons at our side. Lots of country riding today but with a twist. Twisting hills climbing sharply that is. We had some screaming downhills including a long curve where we were greeted by a long line of Harleys riding the opposite way. They tooted horns as we passed them flying downhill at over 35mph. Then into lunch a the town park in Lanark, Ontario. Again Emily and Chris prepared a sumptuous lunch of cold cuts, quinoa, cucumber salad, shortbread and chocolate chip cookies. We ate in the shade of a large tree in picture perfect weather. Then off for the return trip where we rolled through the countryside to Balderson. This time we stopped at the Amish Cheese shop where we had more ice cream for half the price of Friday's scoops from across the street. I discovered a robins nest in a tree right where we were all outside eating. There were two blue eggs in the nest and the robin flew right above our heads and sat in the nest for us. Then on the home leg making good time and enjoying riding with our good friends.

Weather Conditions: Near 60 to start and low 70s at finish with partly cloudy skies and light winds.

5/30/2012
(Wed)

51.32

24.85

03:40:03

13.99

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Wildlife Up Close and Personal Ride. I called Phil and we met at Glacier Knoll at 9am to ride the trail. I got there and saw an older biker pull into the parking lot from the trail just at Phil was coming in with his van. The guy saw Phil pull out his Goldrush and said, "what is this a recumbent convention?" He then told us that he was cranking along on the trail doing about 16 mph when some guy on a recumbent dropped him like he was standing still. He met up with him later and said his name was Bob and he sometimes rode with his brothers Tom and Chuck. Phil and I just laughed at another chapter in the Frazier brothers story. We took off and enjoyed riding along in the first cool day here in a while. When we got down to Bexley we rode through Capital campus and when we got back to Main Street I saw a Bexley bicycle cop sitting on his bike at the corner. We pulled up and chatted for a while. Turns out he is from Canal Winchester and shops at Cyclist's Connection. He asked about our bikes and where we ride. He talked about the trail system and how he often rides 3 Creeks. Then on back to the trail as we rolled along the return route. We started seeing deer in the woods just before 204. Then another small one further along. Just past Confluence Park in the wooded area we came upon a 2 foot long snake sunning on the trail. We stopped to take pictures as another bike came by and ran over just the tip of the snakes tail. The snake didn't move so we continued getting closer and snapping more pics. Eventually, he just slithered off the trail and into the grass. Then over to the Blacklick Trail where we saw a Coopers Hawk flying low just over our heads and circling the field just off to our right. We continued on to Abby Trails where we spotted a large doe in the distance on the right side of the trail. As we approached she just froze. Finally, she jumps back over the trail and into the woods right in front of us. We biked over to the creek to check up on the progress of the bridge construction in Portman Park. We found the area cordoned off but the bike bridge in place and being worked on. Then back to Glacier Knoll where I said goodbye to Phil and headed home. Today's route may be found here: http://goo.gl/maps/fsNP

Weather Conditions: Upper 60s and clear skies to start with no wind. Then mostly clear skies and temps in the lower 70s with winds picking up to 10 mph out of the WSW.

5/31/2012
(Thu)

48.96

31.00

03:42:47

13.19

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Raccoons Everywhere Ride. We rode out about 8am and decided to ride to Pataskala for breakfast. We encountered a garbage truck on Palmer just before Lynns and played leapfrog with him all the way to Smoke and Main St. Then on to the Nutcracker for pancakes and eggs. We rolled out onto Blacks and saw a small creature crossing the road up ahead. It turned out to be a baby raccoon slowly making its way to the other side. He looked kind of thin and sickly and we hoped he would be ok. Then on out to Hebron and then the canal where we saw two dead raccoons on the road then another baby raccoon down in the canal. As we continued down the canal we saw 7-8 heron, a kingfisher and a pair of indigo bunting who buzzed us then flew off into the woods. We rode into Millersport noticing the corn coming up sparsely in many places mostly due to the dry weather. Then up Deep Cut and over to Bickel Church and back Stemen.

The route for today may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/EACZ

Weather Conditions: Mid 60s to lower 70s and clear skies. Light winds early picking up to 10mph from the NE.

6/5/2012
(Tue)

50.22

24.14

03:49:17

13.14

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: A Pair of Singles Ride. With our Screamer's derailleur in the shop with another broken return spring we opted to ride our singles today. I cleaned up and prepared Mar's Tour Easy and loaded it into the van. She then drove to Glacier Knoll to meet Phil and Janet and I rode the Goldrush there. I say John Schlitt leaving for work and stopped to chat for a minute. He was having new windows put in on the house. We said we'd try to ride some evening this week. On the way I was passed by Bob Frazier in his van. He rode along side and told me he was meeting Chuck at the park to ride. Getting to the park I saw Mar, P&J, and Bob getting their bikes ready to ride. P&J were on their tandem. We took off on the trail and almost immediately noticed a superb example of animal scat on the trail. This was coiled in a lovely spiral almost 4 inches tall and had a nice little flip at its tapered end. Looking something like a Dairy Queen chocolate soft serve swirl it captured our attention and gave us a laugh. We rode on down to Bexley where we stopped to check in on Lori. Then over to Capital where the construction on College Ave is in full swing and blocking our way. We had to ride the sidewalks to Main and then over to the trail. On the way back the clouds really began to darken and we got a few sprinkles as we rode back to the park. Marilyn was really enjoying her bike today and said we should do this more often-but not all the time. Then back to Picktown and lunch at OBON. There we said goodbye as I left on my bike and the other three drove home.

http://goo.gl/maps/TtEZ

Weather Conditions: Cool and partly cloudy at start with temps in the low 60s. Then mostly cloudy with light sprinkles on and off with temps holding steady in the lower 60s. Winds out of the NNE at 5-10mph

6/6/2012
(Wed)

42.22

19.92

03:10:49

13.28

Off: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Hockhocking Trail on Singles. I had the day off so Marilyn suggested we take the bikes to a trail. I thought we should do the Nelsonville to Athens path so off we went. We parked in the Rocky Boots employee parking lot right by the trains. The bikes came out and we were on our way on a beautiful day. We wound our way out of the lot over the tracks then onto the trail. It begins by running past a graveyard of old locomotive cars both passenger and boxcars. We also saw doubledecker passenger cars and cabooses and a track snow plow. Then on past Hocking College where we the rest stops for Pelotonia have been for the last two years. Then rolling down the trail with lots of amazing greenery and a flowery fragrance in the air. Along the way we saw 3-4 bluebirds and many chipmonks. We worked our way down to Ohio University where we saw lots of walkers and the pavement became very rough. Then to the end of the trail at the medical center where we turned around and headed back to Ruby Tuesdays for lunch. Then back on the trail where we spotted a life flight helicopter landed just in front of the hospital. A patient was being rolled out on a gurney to be loaded onboard. Then the return trip passing the motocross course across the river that we heard coming down. Students were getting out of class as we rolled by the college and many were walking or riding their bikes on the trail. While at lunch an email indicated that my replacement derailleur was in at BicycleOne. I decided to go after our ride and have them install it. I also am taking Mar's front wheel in for a loud ticking sound when she rides. Probably a bearing.

Today's route may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/4jCX

Weather Conditions: Partly cloudy with temps in the low 70s. Winds out of the North at 10 mph.

6/8/2012
(Fri)

15.57

20.49

01:23:29

11.19

Off: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Evening Ride with John Schlitt and Hannah. John called me after work today and asked if I'd like to ride tonight. We met at Glacier Knoll and he was assembling the trailer as I arrived. We packed up Hannah and off we went on this lovely summer evening. We saw a soft shelled turtle near the bridge just after Winchester Pike and lots of baby bunnies. Hannah was smiling and enjoying the ride until she fell asleep about half an hour into the ride. John and I chatted about work both OSU and CVS and how his church is moving to Refugee Rd. Also about Danielle's school and their upcoming baby. Lots of folks walking and riding the trail tonight. An indigo bunting was spotted coming back and Hannah woke up in time to experience the last 20 minutes of the ride. We said goodbye and Hannah blew a kiss my way.

Weather Conditions: Warm lower 80s with bright setting sunshine and light winds.

6/13/2012
(Wed)

58.88

31.50

04:31:30

13.01

Road: Hills

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: New Derailleur Ride. A beautiful morning gave us the perfect opportunity to try out our new replacement derailleur. A few on bike adjustments as I rode helped to smooth out the shifting. We rolled out just after 8am and saw 4 small birds harassing a redtail hawk near I70 on Palmer. We really enjoyed riding along on a picture perfect morning taking in the growing corn and soybean fields, sun and cool breezes. In Hebron I pointed out to Mar that the famous "Purple House" which at one time housed an electronics store was torn down. We noticed that parts of the canal have started to dry up as we approached the fish hatchery. There we stopped to guess the temperature (Marilyn won for her guess of 69 degrees)which was 67 degrees. Then along the canal watching the fish jump, turtles sun on logs, and eventually, 4 heron including one who jumped up and flew right in front of us. Then on into Millersport where we were passed by a single upright who greeted nicely and scooted along down Millersport Rd. We stopped in town to mail a letter at the post office and said "Hi" to Terri who was sitting out front of the Olde Canal Restaurant. Then on into Baltimore and lunch at Subway before heading back along Basil Western and Diley.

Today's route may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/8xWe

Weather Conditions: Clear skies and temps in the upper 60s with winds out of the NNE at about 10 mph. Very low humidity.

6/14/2012
(Thu)

28.75

29.00

02:30:50

11.44

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Starting Out Flat Ride. I had lunch with David Tefft at noon today so we decided to ride for a couple of hours. A tour of the new trail along Tussing and Hines Roads was what we planned and we took off around 8 am. We zoomed down the first mile as always and just as we turned on Thoroughbred Way Mar said she heard a funny sound behind her. The funny sound was air escaping from the rear tire. I figured it would be easier to fix at home and I was thinking about changing out the rear tire anyway so we walked back uphill to our driveway. There I pulled the wheel and found a cut in the Comet with a little stone or glass in it. This tire already had quite a few cuts so I swapped it out for the Kenda Quest that David Vandevelde sold me a couple of years ago. I put in the tube and mounted it back on the bike. We set off again just before 9 am and ran out Palmer to Mink and up to Refugee. Then out Firstgate to Ridenhour and down Gilmore and through the neighborhoods to Main St. There we turned into the park and over to the trail. We road to the park entrance on Livingston and into Blacklick Park. Then on the park road for a couple of miles to the trail. Then under I 70 and Tussing where we picked up the brand new pavement on the south side of the road. Here we passed walkers and bikers who were already making good use of the trail. Then over to Hines and south until the trail crossed the road and heads into the woods. There we found the new bridge over Blacklick Creek with a "Road Closed" sign hanging from a cable across the entrance. We picked this cable up and ducked underneath. Then we hopped aboard and continued along beautiful new asphalt right along the creek and through the woods. Eventually, we came upon some workers who smiled as we went by. Then a front end loader came riding at us from down the trail. Needless to say, we got off the bike and over to the side as he approached. Mar thought he would tell us to get off the trail but he just smiled and said "Just one more week folks, and we'll have it finished for you!" We waved and thanked him and continued on a little further where the trail ended under the Refugee Rd. bridge. Then we walked under the railroad bridge and rode the dirt trail back to the paved end of the trail in Portman Park. There we saw the bridge over the creek has been completed. We then hightailed it over to Glacier Knoll and back home just in time for me to get ready for my lunch with David.

Weather Conditions: Mid 60s to lower 70s with clear skies and light winds out of the east. Low humidity.

6/18/2012
(Mon)

51.18

25.00

03:57:47

12.91

Off: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Over the New Bridge on the Blacklick Creek Ride. This was a difficult day to get on the bike since it would be the first since we lost our grandchild on Thursday. We decided to ride to Marc and Jessica's house to spend some time with them. We took off about 8:30am and headed for the trail. We wanted to see where the new bridge over Blacklick Creek led so we rode over it and it had nice views of the creek and woods. It just goes into where old Long Rd was but allows access to that side of the creek. Then on down the trail to Bexley as we encountered a very light drizzle and heard some thunder. By the time we got to Petzinger Rd the streets and trail were soaked. We never saw the rain but just missed it as it poured down on Bexley. We got to M & J's and spent some time at the house talking. Then over to COSI for lunch. We headed back just after noon as the temperature and humidity climbed. We appreciated the breeze and noticed how smooth the wooden planks on all the bridges had become since the rain. The boards had dried out so much recently that they would rattle your teeth as they were ridden. We briefly saw a deer near Bixby and saw a redtail hawk and turkey buzzard fighting over something off to the side of the trail. After a brief break at Glacier Knoll we jumped back on the bike and headed home.

Today's route may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/T1kX

Weather Conditions: Warm mid 70s to start and low 80s at finish with high humidity. Winds out of the SW at 10 mph.

6/20/2012
(Wed)

51.82

25.50

03:49:54

13.52

Road: Flat

Rans Screamer
Rd Bent Tandem

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Pheasant on the Trail Ride. With a very hot forecast we thought we'd best get an early start so we were off before 8am to Glacier Knoll. Phil called to say he would be a bit late so we rolled on down the trail and down Ebright then turned back up toward US 33 at the park until we found Phil and to our surprise Chuck as well. We continued on down to Bexley where Chuck turned around and we continued our loop through Capital University and then back on the trail. We took a quick break at Alum Creek then on back at a quick pace trying to avoid the heat. As we were approaching Glacier Knoll I saw a large brown bird scoot across the trail in front of us then take off skimming the tops of the growth in the the field to our left. Phil identified this as a pheasant and we were excited to have seen it. Then we said our goodbyes and rolled on to Max and Erma's for lunch. Near the end of our meal Mar's phone rang. It was Marc who had cut his fingers while trimming his hedges. We rushed out and completed our ride so we could meet him at the urgent care facility at Tussing and 256. Luckily after a few stitches it looks like he will be fine.

Today's route may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/x8eq

Weather Conditions: Very warm low 70s to start then upper 80s at finish. Moderate humidity and mostly clear skies. Light winds.

6/23/2012
(Sat)

19.60

26.32

01:22:40

14.23

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Commute to CVS. Nice cool morning as I took off about 7:15am. Heading down Refugee Rd I waved at a recumbent trike and an upright road bike as they came at me. Saw 2 young raccoons climbing a small tree in a yard on Taylor Woods. Computer pickup came away from wheel magnet shortly after leaving work and had to stop to realign. Might have lost a half mile or so. Nice fast ride back hitting 25 mph a few times especially running from traffic on 204.

Weather Conditions: Cool morning in mid 60s and warm return in mid 80s. Partly cloudy and light winds.

6/24/2012
(Sun)

23.95

24.61

01:39:22

14.46

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Sunday Commute to CVS. Decided to ride the new trail around to Reynoldsburg so left just after 8am and headed out Diley to Long and Glacier Knoll. Then over to the end of the trail at Refugee and off road through the field on a dirt path and under the railroad bridge over to the trail. Then in the woods over the new bridge and on to Hines. On Tussing and under bridges to Blacklick Park. Lots of walkers on the trail then over to the road and up to Livingston then Main. Then through the neighborhoods back to Main and CVS where Diane snapped my picture in front of the store. After work continued fast pace of the ride all the way home.

Weather Conditions: Warm low 70s on way in and mid 80s on way home with partly cloudy skies and light winds.

6/27/2012
(Wed)

57.40

33.60

04:21:53

13.15

Road: Hills

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Meadowlark Ride. Started off on the tandem but after one mile Mar wasn't feeling well. We turned around and headed back. We were to meet Phil at Smoke and Palmer so I switched to my Goldrush and took off about 8:30am heading right up Milnor and 204 in rush hour. I got a call from Phil saying he would proceed along Palmer to Tollgate which is where I met him. We then rode to US 40 and straight across in hopes of accessing Etna Parkway from there but had to walk a bit on a gravel road to get there. We saw some birds in the field off to our left which Phil identified as meadowlarks. I hadn't seen them before (or at least not for a long time) and it turned out that we saw some again later on and I spotted two more myself on Basil Western after leaving Phil. We continued on into Pataskala and over to the cornfield at 158 and Palmer where Phil took my picture. Then on in to Hebron and along the canal where we spotted a heron, soft shelled turtle and some jumping fish. Then into Millersport and over to Baltimore where we stopped where the old Rosewood Cafe used to be. It was closed with a sign saying "Opening Soon". We heard a voice asking, "May I help you?" There was a woman in a truck parked in front telling us that she was the owner and hoped to have her soup and sandwich shop opened by this weekend. We rolled on to Bernie's Bar and Grill and got wings which we ate at tables using huge saw blades as tabletops. Then on down Basil Western as we finished up this beautiful ride on a day that was hot but had amazingly low humidity making it very comfortable.

Today's route may be found here:

http://goo.gl/maps/rzfl

Weather Conditions: Near 60 to start and low 80s at finish with low humidity and winds out of the WSW at 5-10 mph. Mostly clear skies.

6/28/2012
(Thu)

50.15

27.59

03:26:46

14.55

Road: Flat

Easy Racers Gold Rush Replica
LWB Bent

'BentRider Recumbent Club

Comments: Sunrise ride. Forecast today was for 100 degrees so Phil and I decided to jump off early and met at Glacier Knoll at 7am. While waiting for him I noticed a sign for a contest from the Nature Conservancy to win a hybrid car by submitting a self taken photo. I took one of myself and the bike in front of the picnic area. Phil showed up and we headed out with the temps still almost chilly. We chose to ride the trail over 33 first then come back on Ebright since it was still rush hour. We saw cowbirds, catbirds and maybe a kingbird. All the ponds have dried up to little puddles with the occasional heron or egret standing by. We got to Bexley and stopped into COSI for breakfast outside. Then back as we began to pick up a tailwind. We saw Tom and Chuck Frazier on the trail at separate times today. Tom was early and Chuck was quite late. Everyone wanted to move along due to the impending heat. I said goodbye to Phil at the park and headed home seeing Ed and Betsy Robinson walking through the neighborhood. It was warm but the early start paid off as it was never too uncomfortable today.

Weather Conditions: Upper 60s to start and upper 80s at finish with mostly clear skies and winds out of the SW late at 5-10 mph.