Yesterday morning was 19 degrees with a feels like temp fo 12. I was determined to take out my All City Nature Boy (single speed with fenders) so I waited till the temperature hit the 20's. It was about 9:00 that I shoved off, heading down good 'ol County Road 8. Despite it being a bit chilly with wind chill the sun is strong enough to warm everything. I'm not one to long for the sun but it sure felt good yesterday.
My plan was to hit up Darwin and the Ball of Twine, the first of 2021. Knowing gravel would likely be a smorgasbord of snow, ice, hero gravel, slop, and soft gravel I opted for more of a pavement route. Early on I did hit some gravel. Because it was still early in the day and below freezing it was riding great.
Early on when the gravel was good.
The closer I got to Darwin the softer the gravel got. Even with full fenders I was getting a fair amount of backsplash. I jumped on pavement the rest of the way to Darwin. Not only was I dealing with the soft gravel but the SW wind had really picked up. Not having been on a single speed for sometime I found myself attempting to shift to and easier gear a few times, ha! I normally run 41/17 on a single speed but this setup is 42/17. A bit stiff? I'll give it a couple more rides before deciding.
First trip of 2021 to the ball. Also maiden voyage on the Nature Boy.
I've used a Surly Cross Check for many years as my "shit" bike. It's a great bike that can be set up numerous ways. For me, however, I was never very comfortable on the bike. I've had Nature Boys in the past and liked that fit better. It took awhile to find the canti brake version as they are discontinued. For crap weather and no need for power breaking I prefer canti brakes. First ride was a huge success. I also opted for more expensive fenders, PDW Full Metal. Seemingly these have no rattle! Worth twice the price if this holds true for future rides. Highly impressed.
The return trip was with the wind! Much faster and easier. I did hit some gravel as well. At this point in the ride it was fairly soft and arduous to navigate. I had a photo to post of the soft gravel and my 2" deep tire track but it's not wanting to upload.
The ride was 105 miles and 6 hours 45 minutes...shy of a 16mph average. I had a blast! I love fat biking but the first few rides back on a "skinny" tire bike are truly amazing. That being said I'm heading out on the fat bike this morning. It won't be too long before the trails of all makes are just too messy for riding.
Happy Weekend.
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