The last couple of months I've been preparing for my first century (100 miles).  I had been riding the 30 miles home from work at least twice a week (which is not anymore than I have been doing since March, although not consistently.)  

About a week before my ride my in-laws and wife and kids were heading out to Whidbey Island.  Since I was planning on taking Friday off to spend with them out there, I figured I would bike out there Thursday evening.

It was about 60 miles starting in downtown Seattle, norht through Seattle, Shoreline, Lynnwood, until I got to Mukelteo, a short ride on the ferry over to Whidbey Island, and then over to Coupeville.  I had never ridden north of Seattle so it was nice to see that part of the area.  I had also never been on ferry before.
Whidbey Island had a lot more hills then I expected.  Up and down, up and down the last 25 miles or so.  I have not done many hilly rides so it was good for me.  Man was I sore the next day.

Having put that behind me, I figured if I could get a couple more 30 mile rides in before my long ride on Saturday I would be good to go.  I didn't fit a ride in until Thursday and figured that would be enough.

I headed out around 8 on Saturday and just took my normal route up to Seattle.  From there I got on to the Burke-Gilman trail and rode that until it ended.  This was only about 49 miles, I figured I would ride a little extra on the way home.  I stopped for a bout 20 minutes for lunch. I took it pretty easy on the way up (about 15-17 mph), not knowing how my body would react to 100 miles.  On the way back, I was feeling good and rode a little harder (18-20).  I slowed down the last few miles as I started to get tired.  It took me a little over 7 hours, with about 5 stops included.  I could definitely make time on my next ride.  It was a great experience and got to see a lot of beautiful sights around Seattle and the surrounding areas.  Check out the slide show below for some pictures I took along the way.

Next year, I'll be taking on the STP's (Seattle to Portland)  200 mile one day ride!  I'll have to get a few more centuries in before then
Pat
8/30/2012 02:41:45 am

Amazing! I love the pictures! I can tell from your writing that you love biking. You have turned what sounds like torture to me into an inspiring experience. Love you!

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    Pictures

    Click on the Home link to see a slideshow of some pictures I've taken around some of the bike paths in Eugene and a few from Portland.  I'll add some of Seattle when the weather is a little nicer. 

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    Ryan

    I began cycling in Eugene, OR where I got a Master's in Economics.  I now live in Washington with my wife and one and a half kids. My commute, which I split between cycling and train, is about 30 miles one way.

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