The weather has warmed up, clear skies and lots of wind. I decided on a Keene ride. The wind was from the South East. I made it to the summit in good average time. I cruised the downhill. It was a bit dangerous from the turbulent wind conditions. I played it safe. After making it to the base, I headed back, no stopping. The ascent was a game of patience. I was constantly out of the saddle and in my 32T on the steeper sections. The morale felt good. I had my music going. I was having to keep my head down on when it got tough. The mountain side provided some shelter. I was off my usual pace, but I didn't care. The wind would not permit a fast ascent. Concentration was good. Few lapses. Balance and form was good. Ailments, some minor hand soreness. Gear worked perfect. Nutrition was good, I drank about half my Gatorade. No water. Other notes, I saw a Cmax as I was making my way down. He passed me as I was on my way to the top of the descent. No other cyclists today. No tourists at the Loop Monument.