TxDOT almost made FM1960 over Lake Houston into a gravel road on the shoulders. The sand and gravel spread to combat the forecast rain/ice piled up on the shoulders in both directions. Riding east the gravel gathered into small piles across the shoulder probably from the rain running off. This produced a slight up and down motion as I rode over them. The west bound side was not afflicted with these but as I neared the west side of the causeway a truck had dumped about 2 to 3 inches of gravel in a pile covering the shoulder. Riding narrow tires through this pile was interesting but easier than sand.

Since my last ride on February 9th the weather has not been kind to bicyclists. Today is the first one the temperature made it to 60, climbing from 34 at 6:30AM to 62 when I started the ride at 1:24. By the time I got back home at 4:02 it was 64 degrees. Riding in the shadows the wind had a chill to it making me glad I wore 2 long sleeve jerseys, leg warmers, windbreaker jacket and shorts. I decided it was warm enough to wear regular gloves with some reservations at the beginning of the ride where the shadows were frequent. Once I was out in the open the sun helped warm me.

Apparently one other rider thought it was a good day to ride. I saw him waiting to cross W. Lake Houston Parkway coming out of Kingwood Greens.

The route today totaled 32.06 miles at a 15.5 mph average speed. February miles have a struggle so far with only 77 miles so far. The 370 mile goal for the month looks like a tough one. The weather looks even better tomorrow (Friday) with clear sky and 72 degrees. Saturday it cools down a few degrees. The plan is to ride the Humble Lions Bike Ride on Saturday and the weather should not get in the way.

[iframe http://connect.garmin.com:80/activity/embed/444821233 470px 570px]

[iframe http://ridewithgps.com/trips/2236659/embed 95% 700px]