Sunday, July 02, 2006
Day 14 - Idaho Falls, Idaho - July 2nd 2006
Weather: Sunny 95
Location: Idaho Falls (from Burley, Idaho)
Miles per day: 34.15
Average miles per hour: 14.85
Elevation climb: Not worth mentioning - very flat
Blizzards/Ice Cream to date: 12
Flat Tires to date: 1
Today was an easy day. You could almost call it a non-riding day. We set out along the Snake River and before you know it, we were done. We needed a day like this because the next 4 are going to be real tough stuff and we must be ready!
Our destination today, Idaho Falls has man-made falls for its Hydro-Electric Plant (there are as many as 10 along the Snake River). Over 50% of the towns electric power comes from the dam which was rebuilt in 1982.
Since today is a short day, I shall mention the details of my bike. Which is the right bike for this trip? Through conversations, I've learned that no two bikes are the same and much is down to personal preference. My bike is a Trek 520, a traditional long distance touring bike with the ability to carry both front and back panniers. It is often referred to as the Limousine of Long Distance or even a Lounge Chair of Long Distance. Its real strength for this trip is that it is comfortable for riding on the bike for long hours (due to its long frame design). That said, with a steel frame, it is heavier than most of the bikes on the tour (possibly my excuse for being last so many days!). I have mixed feelings with the bike as many comment on its weight. Although at the last bike shop, a chap was commenting that '"I may not be the fastest with the bike but I would be guaranteed to be the most comfortable". With my long days on the bike, the Trek 520 is the perfect bike for me.
With over 50 people on the tour, people have various brands (Trek, Specialised or Lemonds) of road bikes (which are lighter). There are two Tandem teams, two recumbents and one Tri-pod bike (a woman and her two children). I am impressed by the daily bike maintenance performed on all the bikes - lots of polishing and cleaning to ensure the bikes stay in tip-top shape.
Finally, I am really enjoying the group and the support and kindness people have given me. In particular, the 3 Amigos are inspiring.
