Day 2 Preview

Day 2 of RAGBRAI

After a short Day 1 with a few climbs, Day 2 seems to be the most brutal of the week. The day boasts 83 miles and over 5,600 feet of climbing. Those 83 miles are the minimum...as you've read on my web poll, there is an optional 17 mile loop which would make the day be an even 100 miles. The "Century," as it's referred to by cyclists, is a huge milestone the first time it's accomplished. It appears you all want me to suffer as you've overwhelmingly voted for me to attempt the route. What you all don't know is that my vote is the only one that matters!

Stops along the way are:

Harlan to Kimblallton: 14.4 miles
With the Loop: Optional 14.5 miles
Elk Horn: 3.1
Exira: 9.9
Heartland Tower: 11.3
Coon Rapids: 17
Scranton: 17.3
Jefferson: 9.9

As you can see, the last 45 miles only have two stops. Those 45 will be a test, especially if the century is attempted.

In some ways, it's great to have the century on day 2. The legs will be loose from a light Day 1 and with only 60 plus miles on the saddle, I'm sure many will attempt. However, I do wish it was at the end of the 82 miles, not at the start.

Today was a good day of training. I was able to ride home from work (25 miles) and averaged 18.2 mph. I snagged a 40 mile ride on Friday and averaged 17.5 the entire distance. My goal is to ride Tuesday, Thursday, and take a short ride on Saturday. Hopefully, I'll be fresh for the start!

Check out the Preview for Jefferson, IA