I got my camera working - kind of. It didn't record the GPS data so the pictures aren't tagged. Also, my helmet visor popped up in the way for over 30 minutes of the ride. I also had it taking pictures too frequently.
>>>>> Now the Ride >>>>>>
I started off planning to ride to Colossal Cave by way of going around the backside of Pistol Hill. The round trip would be about 35 miles. However, I knew I could adjust and do shorter if I felt like it.
I started out in the afternoon and it was already 90 degrees. It was 99 degrees by the time I finished. I hung a bag on the back of the seat so I could take a protein drink and a couple bottles of Gatorade (calorie free). My water and fluid plan worked well for what I ended up doing. However, I suspect I was a little light for the original planned route/time.
As I was heading up Old Spanish Trail at about 9 miles out, I could feel the sun beating on my shorts and jersey. I was really feeling it.
At 12 miles out, I saw a tree with shade at a Century link substation (or whatever it is), and I pulled under it. I had my protein drink and a Gatorade, and rested my feet some. I was starting to really feel the pressure from my cleats and was starting to get hot foot. I was also getting tired. I figured I could make it to Colossal Cave if I went straight there instead of around Pistol Hill, but I thought I might have difficulty getting all the way back home. I decided it was time to turn around and head home.
The rest reinvigorated me. After about 22 minutes, I started back. The fist 4 miles or so were slightly downhill. Then I had to climb out of Rincon creek and Jeremy wash. That hill has always been a killer. I had to put it in the lowest gear and just pedal at whatever pace did not put me over the limit. I survived to the top of the hill. I do certainly need a lower gear on this trike. My cadence was in low 60's, at least for a bit. That is 20 rpm lower than my average for the ride, so it was really low.
The ride was pretty wearing, but I enjoyed it. It was just too much to bite off the day after one of my longer rides and in the afternoon, and after a couple of late nights.