Another great day to get out. The weather was nice and cool. In the low 60's. Winds from the South East. I wore the standard kit with 1 base layer. After getting up from my usual morning nap, I noticed the wind going North. My initial thinking was to go to WS. But as I made my way out the door, I realized that the wind was mild. I decided to go towards SS instead. I told myself that the wind may change direction by the time I get to the summit of Banducci. Turns out that it persisted. I decided to do the abridged ride. I had a cross/head wind on the way back as I predicted (and is usual). I felt somewhat sluggish to start, but I got warmed up by the time I reached Route 202. Climbing Banducci was easier due to the tailwind. At this point, my body felt lively. I made it to the top in good time. The downhill was a treat. I think I reached 45 MPH. I was able to practice my tuck position on more than one occasion. The trek through the farm lands was the usual business, steady moderate to good tempo all the way to the last climb of the day. I held the moderate to good tempo on the last climb, no real digs today. I used the false flat to recover. It was mostly moderate tempo to Route 202. Route 202 was the usual negotiating through traffic. I made it safe. I ended up merging with traffic and sprinting to the left turn onto OTR. From that point it was mostly fun and games. My concentration was spot on today. I hardly had to coach my mind and no gremlins today. Balance and form felt good today. Given that I was wearing shorts, I didn't know how my legs were going to respond since I was wearing no less than knee warmers for the past couple months. They felt great. Ailments consisted of mild lower back pain and some left hip soreness. I was able to mitigate by stretching on the bike. The soreness never escalated. Gear is working well. The bike is exhibiting some loud creaking noises. I can't pin point it. It makes the noise as I'm out of the saddle and putting the power down. I imaging it's something that is loose. Not sure what. Perhaps I need to examine the drop-outs. Other notes... There was one other cyclist as I was making my way through the farm lands.