Date: August 19, 2005
Route: Clinton, IA to Galesburg, IL
Distance: 88 miles
Ride Time: 6h 45m
Elevation Climbed: 2920
Weather: high of 98 degrees
Log
We spent most of the first 50 miles on the Great Illinois Trail, a paved (mostly) bike path close to the river. It was a relaxing ride … through camp grounds and little towns, at times along the freeway or parallel to the railroad tracks. The morning heated up very fast and a strong headwind made us work for our mileage.
When we finally had to leave the bike trail, it was plenty hot. Our route wound up and down through the hills. After the second sag stop (see us above, Melanie enjoying peanut butter and raisens on a bagel) it was blistering. The only sound was the popping of the tar bubbles as my tire passed over them. The sag came along just as I ran out of water. Replenished, I cycled in without incident. I was tired, hot, and sticky, but in good spirits ready for the 4 th buffet in 6 days.
