March 2016

In early February, Joe texted me hoping to get some sweet Western Mass miles in within the next few weeks. I had time, and the precipitation looked to be holding off, and that's how March's century ended up happening on what it would turn out was the coldest weekend of the month. 

Tyler made the route, which was largely modeled off of the previous March's ride, albeit with less snow.

The day had highs in the 30s, but we were far enough north, early enough, that it was well in to the 20s. The amount of climbing meant lots of zipping and unzipping, but the brisk descents made me very happy I had decided to dress on the warmer side.

We stopped mid-ride at the Ashfield Lake House for some food and warmth. We also filled our bottles in the bathroom sink, but on the way back, I noticed that the water was a vibrant blue in my clear bottle and I decided not to drink any more of it. 

Later that week, it got up to nearly 80 degrees, and every weekend since lacked bottle freezing temps of that first Saturday in March, but on the other hand, in retrospect, this relatively balmy winter had been lacking in a proper winter weather century, which contributes something to the endeavor on the whole.

As April brings warmer weather, the plan is to get a few more centuries in a month...

I know I'm not great at timely updates, but stay tuned. 

Ride Name Origin - Route kinda looks like a waving paw, right?
Bike - Pioneer Valley Hilltowns, Michelin Pro 4 Endurance 700x28
Apparel - Craft long-sleeve base layer, Castelli Espresso Due jacket, Giordana Thermal Jersey. Giordana Laser bibs and Castelli tights. Castelli shoe covers.