Ride over to North County Fair to meet Eric Welch, a new rider who met up with Dave, John, and Jim on a ride to Ramona. He's a very nice guy, lives in Ramona and just recently started riding. Already, he's pretty strong. We headed out BVP to San Pasqual Rd, then into the valley. It was in the low 40's at the start of the ride. He stayed with me on this section, and I was breathing hard. I'm still out of shape, need to get more miles and more challenge into my rides. We rode down into the valley and over to the 78, riding the climb out. I was working a lot harder here than I would have liked. Here, Eric and I stayed together for a little bit, then I outpaced him on the second half. Took the 78 over to Citrus Ave, where I led out on this gradual climb. Took it to BVP, then out to Lake Wohlford Rd. On the initial steeper section, I was riding pretty well, but I didn't have much for the second half that isn't as steep. Again, more miles needed. We headed by the lake, and I got a flat. Changed it, noticed that the tire had a thin piece of metal in it that I couldn' get out, so I switched tires. We went over to Woods Valley Rd, and this downhill section was fun. Back to Valley Center Rd, with a short climb and another long, faster downhill. Turned on El Norte Pkwy, where we rode together all the way over to Nutmeg Rd. Up and down, then up the short, steep Knob Hill section. We were running behind schedule, so we stayed on Auto Pkwy all the way over to 9th Ave. On this little climb past the freeway, my quads were telling me it was time to take it easy. We headed over Quince to Centre City Pkwy, then motored back toward the mall. Eric and I separated at Via Rancho Pkwy, and I headed home the normal route. I was slower than normal going up the hill by the park but felt okay on the last climb back to the house.
Avg speed = 16.2 mph. Total mileage = 42.6 mi
Avg heartrate = 154 bpm
Total elevation gain = 1870'
http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/58779278
