Big Bad Log

Ahhh, today was my day. Hot and ready for a long-overdue ride along the Accro Bike trails I hold so dear. I decided to do the long version (52K) and do it in the reverse direction. This makes for a completely different ride, some of the mean descents now become mean climbs - two of them unride-able due to the utter steepness - and what normally is a tough climb now becomes a leisurely descent. Although from experience I know that nothing about these trails is leisurely, they are tricky and tough, with a surprise waiting around every corner. I have been floored many times - one of the descents I have secretly nicknamed the Big Bad Gully because I already went over the bars there twice - by the treacherous trails and today I needed all my technical luggage to keep me safe . The "Big Bad Gully" sure looked mean as ever today, out of respect I dismounted and rounded it on foot. Not a third time, thank you.
Some very muddy patches too but nothing I couldn't handle, 90 percent of the trails were dry or at least dry enough not to leave a mark on the bike or myself.
Some parts were severely eroded with a soft floor , forcing me to walk - I HATE to walk - and some parts were relatively easy, or at least seemed to be . The weather was great except for a nasty wind blowing from the northeast again. This would only bother me during the last 20K or so. I misjudged the amount of liquid I needed because I found my bottle to be dry with some 10K to go. I did stop once to have a nice Powerbar and I needed it, as this ride really dug into my arsenal of strenght, which had already suffered from yesterdays' ride. No wells or fountains in the neighborhood so I had to make do with what little liquids I had, and the wind blowing in my face during the last K's didn't really help. I had to dig deep but I survived .
I tried out a new pair of trousers today , which were supposedly better than the Assos I am used to. And I have to say, they are really great. My bum was very happy throughout the ride and no saddle sores developed, or at least no new ones. So yes, a great pair of trousers. They were manufactured by Xesco and it's their top-of-the line offering, with elastic foam and breathing skin, price is 99 .
Felt really good thoughout the ride, no slipping or sliding around, very good support of back and bottom, nice and tight the way I like it. I will have to order a second one soon.

Ride Stats : 80k and 1090 heightmeters in 4h34mins

2497/17225