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24 Hours in the Old Pueblo |
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Written by R. Jorgensen
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Thursday, 21 February 2008 |
Kona 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo
The Race. Part 2
Tucson, AZ
February 16, 2008
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We almost completed the journey from SoCal to Tucson, when Tex noticed a bike had disappeared from view in the right side mirror. The right side being the former location of my ride. As it turned out, a broken fork drop put me out of a ride. Fortunately, Tex and Matt both offered their bikes. So now the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo sponsored by Epic Rides become a Salsa 26 inch versus 29 inch grudge match.
Our camp was hastlily set up at the crest of a small rock outcrop. It provided an excellent vista to watch the comings and goings of numerous teams as well as the final half-mile of the course. A couple of canopy's, a pup tent and some inside car camping provided the leisure time. Above ground firepit, washing-machine tub/grill and propane grills finally warmed us up enough to ride.
The course had about a three (3) mile extension this year, it provided the most enjoyable single speed ride of my life. The new course consisted of: 7 Bitches, Loop-Around, Corral Trail, Rattlesnake, His/Hers, Willow Springs Arch, Junebug Singletrack, High Point and the famed Spine. At 16 miles and 1,200 feet gain it was not only do-able but pleasureable.
The rain had created a soft, yet tacky groove. The terrain was high desert with gullies. Once the first hour of riding had estabished the groove, one only had to follow. Please remember, if you strayed from the groove instant catus spines awaited you. I could not even count the number of spiney variety. But if you remained focused- all was well.
With over 170 single speed riders amist the 1,000 plus gear-heads it was a hoot. The elite single speed crowd was seconds off the top lap time. Night times were only slightly slower. And for me: The Salsa Juan Solo proved to be a rapid accelerator. I found it to be a stable and capable race worthy ride.
I was happy my feet were enhanced by Lake MX 230 shoes and my knoggen protected by Lazer Genesis Helmet. I am pretty darn sure of Avid, Rock Shox, TruVativ and Panaracer products on those borrowed bikes. I must admit that the pure experience upon the Salsa Mamasita with carbon fork was exhilarating.
Roger
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; "click to enlarge")
