AS A RIDE ORGANIZER THERE IS ONE PHRASE I LOVE TO HEAR

TODAY WE RODE TODDY'S NAUGHTY NEW YEAR'S RIDE.  Named such because I liked the sound of it and I knew for sure NYE was going to be a massive calorie consumption the likes of which would require a helluva ride to work off.  With any luck, someone would be hacked off that it was too long or too hard or too big.  But that's not what turns me on...

... what turns me on starts off with my standard disclaimer

We leave on time,
bring our own food and gear,
know how to fix your bike and
find your way home.

... I like company on epic rides, I don't like babysitting.

Selfish... maybe? 

I view it as looking out for the good of the group.  Did we stop for Mark when his tire was losing air?.. yes, of course.  One guy having one mishap is not a ride killer... but, stopping can quickly get out of hand.  Ergo the mean and heartless disclaimer.

What turns me on even more is hearing...

I didn't even know half of those trails

... I'm a cruise director at heart.

The most local of locals snacked on delicious newtothem singletrack.  Andy drove up from Oceanside and couldn't believe all the gravelness we have.

How did I accomplish such a feat of novelty?

It's part of one of my most top secretest of training secrets. 

The one nobody believes in. 

The one few are willing to do, ever. 

Yeah, that one. 

Do you do it?

Do you ever get on your bike and poke around the edges of town?  Wander down unknown roads, alleys, trails, etc. 

For some reason, many riders can't fathom the idea of riding nowhere for long periods of time.  

Here's how to do it:  Ride with absolutely no idea of where you're headed.  Be hellbent on not doing the same old ride.

Here's when to do it:  On the easy days, the recovery days and the long slow distance days.

Here's why to do it:  Your body and mind need and crave rides like these.  

Here's what do do when you find some good stuff:  invite your friends to come join ya... have your own disclaimer... and a helluva day.

And after a day like that, I like to wear a beanie like this

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock

If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.

If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black.  You chose.

Quantities are limited.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock

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166
Stretch n HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4551089377