Another A&D Advneture - Gates Pass Style

Well today was yet another adventure for the books.

At 10:30 we loaded up the van and headed down to Tucson. The drive takes about 45 minutes but it was worth it. We parked in the parking lot of Performance Bike hoping they wouldn't mind. We then headed west, through the University, then that forever dreaded "pop - ssss" sound came from Dave's wheel. No worries, we stop, change it and get back riding. About 15 mintues later just as we are starting the ascent into Gates Pass another "pop - sssss" from Dave's back wheel. So in the first 10km ride we have used both of our tubes and our only CO2. Rather than waiting for the third one to come, probably out in the desert with no tubes, we opt to turn around and find a bike store. We bascially double back and end up at Free Wheel Bicycles, when the nice counter people give us 15% because we have such "awesome kits". Oh yes, I should mention at this point. I had another "I AM CANADIAN" experience. I asked whether they had a "washroom". The girl gives me a funny look as says (insert sourthern accent here) " you mean a bathroom"? Yes, a bathroom. I am thinking next time I will ask for a washcloset or the loo and see what look I get. So almost 90 minutes since we started we finally hit the road with CO2s, patch kits and extra tubes. Gate Pass is beautiful. We climbed from the easier side but the roads through Suguaro and up through Morana were great. No issues with cars, not other flat tires and thankfully no head wind. The ride back into the city took a while as we actually ended up quite north of Tucson. But with the nice wide bike lanes that seem to be everywhere riding through town was a piece of cake.

So I am now sitting here, with a full tummy of chicken stir fry and home made orangic strawberry crumble, getting ready to hit the hay. Tomorrow we plan to do the Shoot Out loop (south of Tucson). We are looking to do Mt. Lemmon on Tuesday, take it easier on Wednesday, then hit up Kitt Peak on Thursday.

Thanks for checking in.

From Saddle Brook "Adult Living Community", I am signing off :-)