Albeit it’s technically still summer, a cold storm made its way through the Alps. Snow even settled on the summits above 1800m. The rides I had planned for this fall were all above 3000m, thus a no go on bike. Instead, I chose another tour, about 65km long and 2600 positive elevation, in the Alps, the highest point being 1580m.
Dent de Lyss
But is was cold, much too cold for the way I was dressed.
Dent de Lyss
The problem while riding a bike is that while going uphill I’m too hot, and cold while going downhill. So, the compromise is to be a bit too hot on the climbs and too cold in the downhills and all that remaining within the realm of bearable.
Soladier
But I made big mistake; I didn’t wear shoes covers. After 30min, I crossed a river and both the shoes and socks were soaked. Add 30min of climb in the mud, cows’ shit and 0°C and I ended up with very miserable foot.
Jaman
The 30min downhill that ensued was a torture; upon arriving at the bottom, I couldn’t feel my left feet. Thus, I decided to ride stronger in the uphill, hopefully to warm a bit.
Hongrin
It took about another 45min until I recovered my still wet foot and arrived at the Hongrin dam. Such a scenery!
Hongrin
I had another reason to ride stronger that day; time constrains. Being a mother with children coming back home from school leave little options, as far as schedule is concerned. Not only do I have a tight ride timing, but I also must plan the unexpected, like a mechanical problem or flat tire.
Hongrin
It seems I’m very lucky, as I never had any serious mechanical problems, let alone a flat tire.
Hongrin
But my planning was hard to follow with such a gorgeous scenery! Eventually, I made it, much faster than expected, cold and very, very dirty.
