Today I learned why Laura is so afraid of wind. We had 30 mph crosswinds during some long descents. I was nearly knocked me off my bike multiple times. I was more stressed riding the last leg of 10 miles into Silver City than I was in the Queen Creek Tunnel.
Tim started us off by singing “Monday, Monday” by the Mamas and Papas. Much better. I pulled it up on my iTunes and played on our first break.
We knew there would be some climbing today. For the first portion out of Lordsburg, we had a moderate steady incline. No downhill portions at all but that was alright because it wasn’t too steep. We hit the Continental Divide (6348 feet) about 25 miles from the start. We thought it would be a nice easy ride the rest of the way because Silver City is at an elevation of about 5900 feet. But unfortunately, the wind picked up and we had many steep drops and climbs the rest of the way.
Silver City is bigger than I imagined but nicer, too. The historic section has a hip vibe and some newer restaurants and shops. The main drag has big store like Albertson’s and Wal-Mart, etc. Western New Mexico University is here. It must help drive the local economy.
I took lots of pictures and even some videos today.
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Early morning sky looking back towards Lordsburg at 7:30 this morning
Slowly climbing from the start
The vegetation begins to change as get higher
The sky is amazing out here.
Within minutes the pine forest began. There is a hawk in center of the tree, just sitting on a branch.
It was a great feeling when we reached this high point
Tyrone strip mining project. This was around where the crosswinds became dangerous.
Our last snack break. We had to find places out of the wind to eat and rest.
A wonderful restroom in tre Rosat Cafe where we had the best pizza ever.