Bike Nirvana
Yet another cycling blog
Batangas: Anilao - Mabini loop
December 30, 2016
The group's last ride for 2016 was 25 km of gruelling climbs, which I didn't know how bad it is until I got there. My thighs are still stiff from the previous ride, and I don't really know how far I can go. I brought my son with me so that I'll have a companion during the ride.
We parked at Aquaventure Reef Club Resort owned by a friend where we took off. The route the group decided to take was actually the reverse of what I plotted in Garmin Connect and synced with my Edge 25. I did this so that I would be able to get back as I knew I'd be falling behind again.
The ride was going fine but the elevation indicated in my Garmin Edge 25 is quickly piling up. These are initial photos that I captured as we were riding along the coast line.
I didn't realize that this is the last time I will enjoy the view as we resumed the ride only to face these...
There were at least six of these turns or what I learned from friends as "siko" and I took two panoramic shots as I walk and ride my way up.
My son and I finally caught up with the group as they were resting at what I thought to be the last of the climbs, but I was wrong. I saw the sign...
I thank God for the safe ride and this photo is most appropriate.
When we got to the top, there's a store where we had our last hydration stop so I took this opportunity to take the group photo.
The ride back to Aquaventure is long, winding, climbs and descents that doesn't seem to end. But my son and I made it as we joined the group for lunch courtesy of Hernel and Joy. Thank you so much!
The Edge 25 was able to capture the entire ride and here's the Strava recording of it together with the Relive video.
Post-ride thoughts
The Colnago B1-r did not improve even with the Shimano Ultegra pads. It pales in comparison with both the Shimano BR-6800 calipers and the TRP direct-mount calipers of my Giant Propel Advanced. The B1-r is so weak that I can't take the descents with confidence. I had to brake early and long to minimize the speed. I have to review the braking system of the V1-r.
Cramps didn't haunt me today and I was thankful for that. My legs felt much better compared to two days ago.