Sunday, September 12, 2010

Sept. 12th: Driggs - Jackson 54km 735m

10% grade - Teton Pass
World record downhill with luggage
The fine weather continued (and is forecast to do so until Fri) and it was so pleasant and warm we stopped in Victor, after only 13km and sat in the sun outside a cafĂ© drinking coffee. We would have stayed longer but there was Teton pass to climb. We set off climbing steadily and before long a sign warned (trucks) of a 10% gradient for the next few miles and that is exactly what we got. We were in a narrow valley forested on both sides but at the summit, 2568m, there was a clear view for miles across the Snake River valley with Jackson in the distance. When we rode in the rain last Thursday 10 inches of snow fell on this pass but fortunately there was very little left today and the road was clear and dry. Moreover, the road dropped 650m with a 10% gradient so a downhill speed record was on the cards and sure enough I clocked 90.5kph, a personal record. Now that was fun and I’d love to have another go without the luggage on the bike but we have other plans.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow congrats on the record Tim!!

I went Mountain biking with Patrick on Saturday (he was remembering the ride he did with you two at the end of your cross canada trip) and went over my handlebars probably going about 5 km an hour - no harm done though!

Awesome pictures!!

Katherine

Orest said...

Hi U 2
Fantastic pictures and dialogue. Keep it up. Been out on my bike today, not a record but enjoyed it.
Maybe again tomorrow.....who knows?
Love and best wishes Orest & Tina