A good ride

Made myself get out and get some saddle time. Put in a 6.7 mile ride. I really do not have the nice places to ride close to my house and that hurts the motivation. I loved being able to just go and be close to some nice ridding. I really need to either get a trunk mounted bike carrier or a hitch mount for my SUV.

It was really good to get out though, but I can tell I need consistency. Consistency on getting in the saddle and more consistency on pushing my legs and lungs.

At least the views are still pretty. Even if their are not good trails close by.

Thorns, Cages, and Bottles

Had my first Tube change.

Plus I added a Water Bottle Cage and bought a nice new insulated bottle.

I switched tubes to a slime tube. Hoping this helps keep some air in the tires with all the spiny burrs and thorns that come with the area. Actually changing the tubes was super easy. I had bought some tire wrenches but they really were not needed with the tire size being as large as it is. Just pull the bead over the rim, take out the tube and insert the new tube. Of course you have to check for other thorns before the new tube goes in. A very simple process. Glad I bought that tube with the cage and bottle.

I added the Cage and am very happy with the look and function so far. I think it looks solid on the Airborne Guardian and fits the paint scheme well. The bottle fits snug and yet getting the bottle in and out is easy while on the trail. The cage was 9.99 so a bargain for a good metal, lightweight cage.

I also bought this great Camelbak Podium Big Chill 25oz Bottle. It is insulated so it keeps the water, Gatorade, or other beverage chilled while you ride in the heat. I like drinking the cold water while exercising to keep the core temperature down. By starting with cold refrigerated water even after an hour of riding the water is still cold and refreshing. The bottle was 11.99 so for 22 bucks I can stay hydrated during some good xc riding.

This photo was already posted, but it shows off the bottle and cage really well with the bike.

Update: I am loving the bottle and cage. The bottle has a great spout which allows you to squirt with precise aim or to just suck on the nipple if that is your preference. I would suggest buying one of these bottles if are not lucky enough to have a hydration pack. One tip is you can fill the bottle up half way and throw it in the freezer. Make sure the bottle is tilted so when the ice forms it does not hurt the bottle. By freezing half of the water you can go a long ways with cool refreshing ice water.