Part of the Route

I thought it would be a good idea to check out part of the route today. I didn't have time to do it all so I chose to start at Thunderbird Stadium and follow the course around UBC. Instead of doing the 2 laps as outlined in the route, I only did one hookng onto SW Marine Drive. I then followed the 2nd leg of the route out to Iona Park and back.

As I anticipated, the route is mostly flat. There are few sections of false flats but they don't effect the average speed much. One section will be a little trecherous - the leg along Camoson between W 29th Avenue and SW Marine. This is a straight and relatively steep downhill but the road is in bad shape. There are potholes, hidden dips, and deep cracks in the pavement. It is also pretty narrow, especially of there are parked cars on the sides. If there is a large group of riders at this point, we could get in each others' way - a potential hazard.

The leg out to Iona Park runs pretty much due west and it is exposed. If there is a wind, it can really slow you down. That's what it was like today - a stiff headwind all the way out. I was not able to go faster than 26km/h on that stretch. But, I was pushing 40km/h on the way back. There is also a short portion that runs north-south and it is just as exposed. If the wind is blowing, it cuts right across the riders. With a light racing bike, that can be scary. The bike gets pushed across the road.

I have yet to check out the circuit around Richmond. I am going to try to get out there this week. Then, I will put it all together for a full test run next weekend.

My ride today:

Distance: 47.45 km
Time: 1:33:53
Average Speed: 30.3 km/h