Newberry Caldera

Ride No. 2 on the Stumpjumper was the epic Newberry Caldera Rim Trail. Bagged Paulina Peak, climbing 1,500 feet to a final altitude of 7,915 over four miles of access road. A mile back down the road to the Rim Trail trail head and a bit of nice single track took me to the lovely view of the bike overlooking Paulina Lake. A bit further along encountered a bit of snow still on the trail in mid-July. Did not see a soul for the 20+ miles of single/double track around the caldera rim. Definately appreciated all facets of the Stumpjumper - climbing for sure, but also a couple of realatively steep and technical descents. Can't wait to get back to Central Oregon, but in the meantime will look forward to introducing the Stumpjumper to our home trails.

Goodbye Pinky, Hello ?????

After the demise of my first ride - Pinky - A Trek Liquid 25, had an opportunity to try out three replacements for full rides - a Trek Fuel EX 8, Santa Cruz Blur LT and Specialized Stumpjumper Elite. Short answer is the Trek was too stiff and did not hold a line going down, Blur flowed like an angel going down, but was a real push to get to the top of the route. The Stumpy was "just right." Climbed like a goat and descended with just as much confidence as the Blur, though not quite as plush. The Stumpy was the hands down winner on all fronts - climbing, descending, components, weight and price was right there given the component set.

First ride on my bike this AM - Sunriver up to Lava Lands Visitor Center, topped off with a ride up to the top of Lava Butte. What a complete screaming joy! After three days of good hard test rides with some pretty good climbs, did not think I would have the legs today, but a combination of excitement and the qualities of the Stumpy went for another 21 miles.

Pictures are "just off the showroom floor" clean and pretty and the bike and I at the top of Lava Butte.

Happy Trails My Dear Friend

How do you say good-bye to your first ride, the one who has faithfully carried you through the ups and downs, the twists and turns? Happy Trails, Pinky and thank you. You've been a great friend. After four years, Pinky's rear triangle gave out - a broken frame, not to be repaired. But not before one last spectacular ride - 15 miles of single track - total ride of 19 - with the lights, getting home just after midnight. What a blast. But, today she gave in.

And so, the return to the dating world begins, with a rented Trek Fuel EX 8 on top of the car right now and plans to do the ride planned for today - a run down the Deschutes from Sunriver into Bend. A Specializd Stumpjumper Elite is reserved for Saturday and will be looking to rent a Giant Trance on Friday. Hopefully, I won't come home from vacation alone.

No memorial service will be held as Pinky wished it to be. She would be happy if you would just oil your chain in her memory before heading out on your next adventure.