With the construction around I-69/US59 and the Grand Parkway at Community Drive I went back in the ride archives to find a route that went north but avoided the area. What I found was the “Oakhurst – Gene Campbell Road – Valley Ranch” route. The last time I rode this route was May 4th, 2016. This is a reverse of a route I ride frequently with some added streets at the beginning. Today I biked 41.15 miles. Since the Giro d’Italia ended yesterday I got an earlier start rolling wheels at 9:55 AM. I will need the extra time and early start times during June to reach my 800 mile goal. So far I am up to 74.19 miles, 9% of my goal.

The wind appears to have left the area which helped my pedaling and energy. Weather during the bike ride: start 87 (71% humidity), partly cloudy, wind calm. Finish 94 (51% humidity), partly cloudy, wind W 5 mph. Heat was more noticeable without the wind provided cooling. I wore shorts, short sleeve jersey, and arm sleeves.

Average speed was 14.4 mph for a long portion of the ride reflecting my leg power and the reduced wind resistance. Strava tells me ” This was harder than your usual effort.” Physical data:

• average heart rate 138 bps
• max heart rate 158 bps
• average power 115 watts
• max power 453 watts

I stopped at the Mobile station in New Caney at I-69/US59 but they were closed temporarily so I needed to find another place to refill my water bottle. I had enough to ride to the Circle K at FM 1314 and I69-/US59 where I refilled my water. As a treat I stopped at Pat’s Donuts and ate an apple fritter. All of the sugar was to power me to the finish about 8 miles away. I think the sugar was too much but I did have energy to keep my speed up until I got into Woodridge Forest. Riding through the residential streets in Kingwood I slowed down and finished with my average speed at 14.1 mph at 1:18 PM.

Weather for Tuesday will probably repeat today and I plan on riding.

Yesterday I took a rest day. I took the opportunity to wax my chain. It was starting to squeak and the last time I waxed it was 4/13/19 at 8,878 miles versus 10,255 miles.