1,000 Miles

July 27th, 2007

Tomorrow I will pass the 1,000 mile mark on my bike. That’ll also make 100+ miles this week, which isn’t really that much of an accomplishment considering I usually ride at least 30 miles per outing. However, after I rode Tuesday my odometer was at 912 miles, and I set a goal of making it to 1,000 before Sunday. After tonight’s ride I only have 14 miles to go, or something like that. I don’t remember how many, I just know it’s less than 20.

Technically I’ve already ridden 1,000 miles on this bike because I rode twice before I put the computer on it. I’m just going to consider those “test rides” and not count them. So, barring some unforeseen mechanical malfunction or flat tire, I’m riding past the 1k mark tomorrow. I think I bought my bike last June, so that’s pretty good. I’ve actually ridden as much in the past 3 months as I did in the 6 months I had the bike last year.

I’m ready to upgrade and I’ve made a rule that I have to ride at least 1,500 miles on this bike before I can start shopping for a new one. Odds are I’ll hit 1,500 and then move it back to 2,000, and then 2,500 before I buy a new one. It’ll be all good. Maybe I can hit 2,000 before January 1, 2008. Anyone wanna make a bet? That’s a surefire way to motivate me. That’s only 50 miles a week for the rest of the year. Come on, who wants a piece of that action?

The other night I stupidly left my bike mounted pump on my bumper or something and drove off, so it’s gone. I think that’s what happened anyway, it’s the only reasonable explanation. It’s not in my truck and it’s not in the garage. So if I get a flat while I’m out on the trail I’m fucked. I might be walking past the 1k mark tomorrow instead. Hahaha, just kidding. I’m not trying to jinx myself or something. There’s more exciting news after the jump!

I’m thinking about riding 100 miles in a row one day in September or October. I’m going to call it “The 1st Annual Byard Scramble.” I’ve chosen to do it that late in the year because 100 miles take a while, and I’m not interested in riding in 90-100 degree weather. That will also give me a few months to work up to it. To date, the most I’ve ridden in a row is 48ish. I know, why didn’t I go the extra 2 miles to make it an even 50. I’m a wuss.

I’m thinking about doing 11 laps around Lake Hefner. It’s 9 miles around the lake. Fuck it, might as well go 12 laps, right? Lake Hefner would be good because friends and family can come support me, Squish, and whoever else wants to ride with us. Plus, if we break down or get a flat, it’s not that far of a drive to bring replacement parts, spare tubes, or a real pump to air up the tires. It would also be really easy to stop and fill up water bottles, have a snack, etc… and anyone who wants to ride a lap or two with us is more than welcome to do so. Come one, come all. Everyone else can have a picnic, or fish, or take pictures, whatever.

So, who’s coming with me? Fill out the contact form if you’re interested and we’ll work out the details.

Just for the record, tonight was not a particularly fast night for me, and I averaged about 16-17mph for an hour and a half (25 miles or so). I’m guessing 100 miles will take 6-7 hours, depending on the wind conditions at the lake. If it’s a really calm day it’s not hard to average close to 20mph because it’s pretty flat. On the other hand, if it’s windy it’s not hard to average 12mph lol. It’ll be an adventure either way.

OK, I’m done typing. It’s time to have some popcorn and watch something.

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