tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40915527582945989382024-02-18T21:22:53.564-05:00Back Roads of Indiana & KentuckyIn addition to the routes on this site I also have published a map book containing 91 counties of Indiana showing paved roads and suggested routes for bicyclists. The book, "Back Roads of Indiana" is available at Hodson's Bay Company West Lafayette Indiana. 765-743-3506
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-49917114801323307642016-10-06T13:07:00.000-04:002016-10-06T14:18:55.663-04:00My kind of road!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHmisvegWmiKa7cRx05z1Gv7ww3ajyttvZPZ3ZCBYPtWeBr9Mjkt_8E8ZAl6hznkk-ANYz4BdD2R6ZkYohcKxPktzUcaUo8wvJ3Mh-CnJG0Wr5DnACg-zEVZ45JuGmsZPfXRzE8inui_WM/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-10-06+at+12.55.53+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHmisvegWmiKa7cRx05z1Gv7ww3ajyttvZPZ3ZCBYPtWeBr9Mjkt_8E8ZAl6hznkk-ANYz4BdD2R6ZkYohcKxPktzUcaUo8wvJ3Mh-CnJG0Wr5DnACg-zEVZ45JuGmsZPfXRzE8inui_WM/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-10-06+at+12.55.53+PM.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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Getting into the fall is when I usually begin researching roads for the next summer's five day ride. Google street view is a big help in doing this however even Google doesn't get as far into the backcountry as we sometimes go. That being said I did notice the above pic where opposing local vehicles must have one side of the car in the grass/ditch to pass! Finding these roads, as long as they are paved, is what make the summer ride so special.<br />
This road is on the route between West Liberty and Grayson Kentucky!<br />
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Below; Further down the road!<br />
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<br />Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-79220257824094148922016-06-20T16:44:00.000-04:002016-12-03T07:44:18.613-05:00RRRiK 2016 - Five Days of Biking in Northern l Kentucky<div>
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<a href="https://ridewithgps.com/events/Ralf-s-Rural-Ride-in-Kentucky-2016">View map above showing all five routes</a></div>
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This year the ride started out much closer to home and only 34 miles South of Cincinnati in Williamstown Kentucky. We joined by four riders from Indiana, four from Michigan and one from Washington state. All had attended several previous rides with us, some dating back to 1994 when we started with Charlie's Southern Indiana Ride "CSIR"!<br />
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<a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/11332029">Day 1 Williamstown to Blue Lick SP</a> < Route Map</h2>
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Monday we started out from Williamstown, a rather small town which will be impacted by the opening of The Ark Encounter in July of 2016. We parked vehicles in the municipal lot and headed Southeast with the destination of Blue Lick State Park for an overnight. Phyllis and I had traveled the routes in the fall of 2016 to assure no surprises. Today, of course, was very different with all the lush green landscape. The route was nearly all on remote paved backroads meandering past freshly planted tobacco fields, beautiful rural homes, the occasional ancient barn and of course a few mobile homes. The riders could expect interesting scenery hiding behind the upcoming hill or around a curve. <br />
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We stopped at around 15 miles and ordered deli sandwiches then continued on several miles enjoying a picnic lunch at an ancient walled cemetery. The road was almost one lane. While riding up a small hill, a pickup pulling three wagons of tobacco plants came up behind us. Kentuckians were very patient, creeping along to a point where the bikers could pull off the road, they waved and smiled as they passed us by. Toward the end of the ride we ventured down a "Road Closed" sign creating some skepticism among the group. The riders of course are use to this and ventured into the abyss knowing that we'd make the destination.</div>
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We arrived at a steel guardrail with a tree covered opening on the left. This took us to the the old highway 68 bridge over the Licking River and up to the new highway only half a mile from the state park. The lodge at Blue Lick SP was a welcome site after a 50 mile day. <br />
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I almost forgot about the wrong turn I took them down on Mudlick Road. (Due to beautiful and gently rolling road I wasn't watching the GPS closely.) I suddenly realized that the GPS was taking us further away from the next turn!!! We stopped to get our bearings after realizing we were off route. A few riders were ahead and one was behind so we decided to regroup before making any decisions. We then backtracked to the route adding seven miles to the planned ride of 50.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/11326324">Day 2 Blue Lick State Park to Maysville</a> < Route Map</span></div>
Tuesday we headed out to Maysville, the long way around Flemingsburg. Again on remote backroads, we pedaled along the Licking River and over some rolling hills. At the ten mile point the riders turned onto a gravel road for 1.5 miles. Last fall the road had been fairly nice compacted gravel with wheel tracks however in the spring the county applied a layer of crushed stone. There was little complaining and the gravel ended at a water ford which turned out to be dry. When verifying the route early Spring, it had a fast flowing 4-6" of water and scaring us from taking the Honda Element across. A later conversation with a local farmer assured us it was OK however we erred on the safe side and took a detour around the water ford.<br />
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Condition in fall of 2015</div>
Further along the route we stopped at a hand woven rug shop run by an Amish family. Among the group four rugs were purchased for $25 each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdj1LC1JFWIJGpAjLSMJdZZp71oiunLd9PvL9C6jK3EBNRM6eEnesUnwRfQ6zw5B48ecJ6Y2mk7UmnCCingdZPB08dS7mBcY4nYKuASsBZj-BRvXOIx0MDsjv1Yd1BRhWOp_sOiwhPmqU/s1600/DSC06791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOdj1LC1JFWIJGpAjLSMJdZZp71oiunLd9PvL9C6jK3EBNRM6eEnesUnwRfQ6zw5B48ecJ6Y2mk7UmnCCingdZPB08dS7mBcY4nYKuASsBZj-BRvXOIx0MDsjv1Yd1BRhWOp_sOiwhPmqU/s640/DSC06791.JPG" width="640" /></a>We then continued on to a deli for a great sandwich at the 42 mile point and visited with some of the locals, one of which was determined to reroute us to the highway which was "the only way to get to Maysville! We learned from the two ladies running the deli that this man was a "local character"and was in in rare form as usual. Continuing on we startled a large herd of cattle creating a stampede as we rounded a corner. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpnSH1QR8DBYA_c64Bk4H23ylThBejEiOB894t_op2qIZ30YjyzA8R3ZHMRX2xquYqeod8HjD_4hSzKeuHSH9yQciezu4K_um4G-EEwpzLvzrOvTkSvfrKHN6-BGldcrq6hT-IPsVn3Fwb/s1600/DSC06809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpnSH1QR8DBYA_c64Bk4H23ylThBejEiOB894t_op2qIZ30YjyzA8R3ZHMRX2xquYqeod8HjD_4hSzKeuHSH9yQciezu4K_um4G-EEwpzLvzrOvTkSvfrKHN6-BGldcrq6hT-IPsVn3Fwb/s640/DSC06809.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DbH7oicX1fiOKjeIx51m3bivF33ZtdrUE6DMGuDqZakris3w9qA7G-YRmRyCRexhi-U1_SJ_HBEXar5WlTwR_jNWdutqqxGZyUtkvsA9vd4YKDBelvY2P_FKft20JediKy_gG7ib3B_I/s1600/IMG_5672.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DbH7oicX1fiOKjeIx51m3bivF33ZtdrUE6DMGuDqZakris3w9qA7G-YRmRyCRexhi-U1_SJ_HBEXar5WlTwR_jNWdutqqxGZyUtkvsA9vd4YKDBelvY2P_FKft20JediKy_gG7ib3B_I/s640/IMG_5672.jpg" width="640" /></a>We entered Maysville on very narrow pot-holed road that paralleled the railroad. It was heavily treelined and much cooler, plus it was heading downhill. Our stay would be at the French Quarter Inn next to the suspension bridge to Ohio. We had stayed there on the 2012 ride and were happy with the location and rooms. A nice dinner at Chandlers which we also visited in 2012.<br />
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Gathering after the ride!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/11346950">Day 3 Maysville Loop into Ohio </a>< Route Map</span></div>
Wednesday was a loop route into Ohio then returning to Maysville for another overnight. Checking the weather forecast we decided to do a shorter route to hopefully miss an afternoon shower. It was a nice easy climb out of the Ohio River valley then across the river on the newer 68 bridge with a wide shoulder. <span style="text-align: center;">Unfortunately, the wide sawtooth expansion joints on the bridge caused a pinch flat for one of the riders. A quick fix and we were soon "again" climbing out of the river valley on the Ohio side. </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RXcA1KLz2_fDc-WG2SLbzsLda9AyrWdQ0ApaxN1a_EPhD4GRMpAjkPTDT35xZrL1469mSwKmCeHRsn0VvRRUtrbp-n6dK-7rOwgveABVpahUzj15qgy2BcsH2FMVBnYBSh3q3dB2UlzH/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-06-24+at+6.36.17+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3RXcA1KLz2_fDc-WG2SLbzsLda9AyrWdQ0ApaxN1a_EPhD4GRMpAjkPTDT35xZrL1469mSwKmCeHRsn0VvRRUtrbp-n6dK-7rOwgveABVpahUzj15qgy2BcsH2FMVBnYBSh3q3dB2UlzH/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-06-24+at+6.36.17+AM.png" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwKTETXE9SUXfrICpzUQkVzMK6YxENnRd5tB96OwrsXVE0EcMxQCI3Gci8cxxJkOAywHvNL758ceNTwLnBXg9t9wJQm0-2DMUNsZ0KC9xF7WUekSWrrpWOkqnp4Fl0Akc5YenGP-BTlxZ/s1600/IMG_5695.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNwKTETXE9SUXfrICpzUQkVzMK6YxENnRd5tB96OwrsXVE0EcMxQCI3Gci8cxxJkOAywHvNL758ceNTwLnBXg9t9wJQm0-2DMUNsZ0KC9xF7WUekSWrrpWOkqnp4Fl0Akc5YenGP-BTlxZ/s640/IMG_5695.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="text-align: center;">It </span><span style="text-align: center;">A couple of climbs later and we were rolling along some creek valleys looking for the Ebeneezer Church for a short break. </span><span style="text-align: center;">It was just off to the left on a sde road at the top of a short steep hill giving the leader a bit of BS! At the 17 mile point, dark clouds to the West got our attention and a quick stop for a radar check confirmed that we might be in trouble. We decided to take an even shorter route to over to highway 41 then downhill seven miles getting us back to the Maysville bridge just as the rain started. The Maysville bridge has a sidewalk on the West side, kinda narrow but is does keep you out of traffic. Our original 50+ mile ride dropped to 30 miles. A nice dinner at Caproni's was a great way to finish of the day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/12203776">Day 4 Maysville to Williamstown</a> < Route Map</span></div>
Thursday was forecast to be hot with possible late afternoon showers. We had 62 miles for the day so breakfast at the hotel was in order. We stocked the SAG with plenty of Gatorade and ice plus some beer for the end of the ride due to ending in a dry county. Our first stop was in Augusta at 20 miles. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJWBco0ah8XyAw0zyVq_mAsLqtz3-c0W2qp9jTvLeAHh6u5zkofDXmAKpe-2CCQVQrLVoVfPgMb0zJMQmrnnp-OnTpewUakNln7IPnSc_sAqnM9tuInYCLbxygThdtNugkKM2qwpxEC-j/s1600/DSC06841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUJWBco0ah8XyAw0zyVq_mAsLqtz3-c0W2qp9jTvLeAHh6u5zkofDXmAKpe-2CCQVQrLVoVfPgMb0zJMQmrnnp-OnTpewUakNln7IPnSc_sAqnM9tuInYCLbxygThdtNugkKM2qwpxEC-j/s640/DSC06841.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
The ferry (not on the route) and the local store provided some additional interest especially when the SAG driver found out she was talking with Nick Clooney, George's father, in the general store. She mentioned he did look familiar! Leaving Augusta and heading to lunch at Lenoxburg found us grinding up one of the toughest hills on the route, it never seemed to end. After that it was rollers and finally dropping down to Snag Creek road and another climb to Lennoxburg. The road was very narrow with a ragged hill causing some to question the leader's choice. However, after crossing the AA highway, the pavement improved and the gentle climb continued on until the last short "Booger of a hill" ending at the Lenoxburg store. The store was a gathering point for locals with several old chairs to congregate and a deli with tables in the back. Another great sandwich and a chance for some minor tuning of a couple of bikes. When we were assembling to leave an elderly local man hobbled down the steps in front of the store and slowly mounted a VW trike. He put on his amber sunglasses, fired up the noisy machine and roared up the hill toward home. It was a site to see! <br />
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Note the walker behind his seat!</div>
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We headed on along for several miles of ridge top riding before dropping into the Licking River town of Falmouth. Howard's Place in Falmouth was the destination serving up some good ice-cream and chocolate malts which cooled the "hot riders". From there it was a scenic five miles along Fishing Creek Road where a local stopped to tell us we were "on one of the most dangerous roads around!!" <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWV5ydGVRbfYPb-R5YqypD5iuKcANKTezyjxi1EZyL0RmmI4GfrIeaexNa-rxejgnG8nFRTlcJBviZJ-FiOR20AcEpVj_ZbHW61g-5qzrR5C1phSVwvKf6_8vRt_QcsKRRfjILLta0SSB/s1600/IMG_5714.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWV5ydGVRbfYPb-R5YqypD5iuKcANKTezyjxi1EZyL0RmmI4GfrIeaexNa-rxejgnG8nFRTlcJBviZJ-FiOR20AcEpVj_ZbHW61g-5qzrR5C1phSVwvKf6_8vRt_QcsKRRfjILLta0SSB/s640/IMG_5714.jpg" width="640" /></a>We kept our thoughts to ourselves thinking of the narrow highways nearby with traffic was running at 55 - 60! Arriving back in Williamstown we picked up the vehicles and shuttled back to Dry Ridge for an overnight. This was the annual pizza night dining under the shade trees next to the hotel.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/10070347">Day 5 Corinth Loop</a> </span><span style="font-size: large;">< Route Map</span></div>
Friday was forecast to be cooler but with a few of the attendees wanting to head home after the ride we opted for a 48 mile alternate cutting off ten miles. I had picked this route up from RalphieBoy (Ride with GPS ID). We parked at the truckstop east of Interstate 75 then headed to Corinth and onto more backroads East of Dixie Highway. And were welcomed to Corinth!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgms7cSz22x3G23rr0CFRIbNKy1pMq_DeNkYWyZPJhxrFKn8hCCpWdbRgiPfLvRpnxrG7DR-Bn4Kh92Dlthkda8R2VMD2IDDmVMTSsobH-C3H7zEviSfQOmgeAvlRs6p9oiuMPJn78X5CX/s1600/DSC06848.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgms7cSz22x3G23rr0CFRIbNKy1pMq_DeNkYWyZPJhxrFKn8hCCpWdbRgiPfLvRpnxrG7DR-Bn4Kh92Dlthkda8R2VMD2IDDmVMTSsobH-C3H7zEviSfQOmgeAvlRs6p9oiuMPJn78X5CX/s640/DSC06848.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Store In Corinth</div>
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A short tunnel on Double Culvert Road</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlStDU7PFDYapu_Wo4TtuVPkjlaYMB01GdTLQ1UDhZxayHkDXrqrL0EszS3TtyaLzIns3dqk9IqhQRxV_xvIygnbr7lN_JuBUQX7wK3WHyzt9QN_wNcyBpMe8W29ZGdALi408gB1g16Dxd/s1600/DSC06861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlStDU7PFDYapu_Wo4TtuVPkjlaYMB01GdTLQ1UDhZxayHkDXrqrL0EszS3TtyaLzIns3dqk9IqhQRxV_xvIygnbr7lN_JuBUQX7wK3WHyzt9QN_wNcyBpMe8W29ZGdALi408gB1g16Dxd/s640/DSC06861.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
We found lots of great pavement for the majority of the route with some being only days old. We opted to skip lunch since the SAG had plenty of snacks and Gatorade. This route was my favorite of the week with the never-ending rolling, one-lane and treelined roads. What a gem for the end of the ride.<br />
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Comments at the end of the ride were very positive about the whole ride with several saying the first and last days being the best! Hopefully all will return for another trip through Kentucky on remote roads with Ralf!<br />
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Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-1088123217029790392016-05-07T15:16:00.000-04:002016-05-07T21:10:24.171-04:00370 Mile Five Day Loop Around Louisville<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PIhxraVwIFO09_vRrpwbbae9afw-MZkEO6-dLPttbgJCxLg__gfoDQipJc1h2hyyAAq5wIMkrI6b8SDtXwvV6eNiPyfjqtPSF_-w_cpQF3wt6afuKjL768Z69MitEb4-hgB6VLLPPJwG/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+3.01.51+PM.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7PIhxraVwIFO09_vRrpwbbae9afw-MZkEO6-dLPttbgJCxLg__gfoDQipJc1h2hyyAAq5wIMkrI6b8SDtXwvV6eNiPyfjqtPSF_-w_cpQF3wt6afuKjL768Z69MitEb4-hgB6VLLPPJwG/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-05-07+at+3.01.51+PM.png" /></a>Back in the late 90s A group of friends joined us for something different further south than Southern Indiana. We wanted to avoid the larger cities but still use lodging inlieu of camping. After quite of bit of research for remote roads we settled on this route. Once in a while the route uses secondary highways to connect the remote roads. Crossing the Ohio River at Cannelton and Madison Indiana were interesting, especially with the old bridge, now gone, at Madison.
Click the link: <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/events/Circle-Louisville-Five-days-370-mi">370 Mile Five Day Loop Around Louisville</a> to see the routes with cue sheets and gpx files.
Then scroll down to the bottom and click button "Show All On Map".
Also check out my other routes in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio at <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/users/24018/routes">Ralf's Rides</a> on Ride With GPS!
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-976523381548949162016-04-17T16:58:00.001-04:002016-07-19T13:36:21.996-04:0033 Mile loop South of Cincinnati near Interstate 71 / 75 split<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I took off on this ride mid morning today with the idea of capturing a few pics to add to the route. It's one of my favorite routes close to home with plenty of remote roads and four miles along Arnold's Creek which might be termed a goat path by some. Not big mileage at 33 however there is 2,340' of climbing so it is a fairly good early season workout. Arnold's Creek Road was repaved last fall, really nice!. It really is worth the drive to do this route! There are several pics included with the route map plus que sheet and downloadable GPX track.
<a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/3158353">Verona / Arnold's Creek Loop</a>Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-75167978012657192862016-04-16T14:58:00.003-04:002016-08-15T07:37:58.128-04:00Scenic Bicycling Across Indiana!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Having lived in Indiana most of my life and cycling a big part of it searching for remote scenic routes. In the majority of the state I found what I was looking for and want to share it with others. The ones shown on post are a compilation of those routes which helped keep me motivated to ride there. There are actually many roads and places that are scenic, interesting and in some areas challenging to the cross country cyclist. Take a look at the routes and see if you can adjust your routing to take one of these routes, you just might be surprised with the countryside.
You can even connect with routes in Ohio and Kentucky to continue your journey.
Be prepared to spend more time if traversing the state using my routes because you won't be going straight.
Click the link: <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/events/Ralf-s-Indiana-Routes">Ralf's Remote Rides in Indiana</a> to see the routes with cue sheets and gpx files.
Then scroll down to the bottom and click button "Show All On Map".
Also check out my other routes in Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio at <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/users/24018/routes">Ralf's Rides</a> on Ride With GPS!
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-67485518846438517242016-03-25T16:25:00.000-04:002016-06-27T18:04:26.440-04:00Six Scenic Routes Between Florence KY and Georgetown Ky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Living in Northern Kentucky near Cincinnati and enjoying remote bike rides I want to share with others the scenic, low traffic and paved routes that I like to ride. I hope you enjoy these routes as much as I do and suggest them to others.
Click on: <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/events/Remote-Road-Routes-So-of-Cincinnati">Ralf's Remote Bike Routes Between Cincinnati & Lexington</a> which takes you to the Ride With GPS site. From there you can select one of the six routes to get cue sheet or GPX file.
You can also select "Show All on Map"!Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-81476711653634281532016-03-01T17:56:00.002-05:002016-07-12T09:59:34.308-04:00Ralf's Rural Rides in KentuckyLooking for a different adventure on your bicycle? Come to Kentucky and ride the rural scenic roads where it's hardly ever straight or flat. The countryside is dotted with tobacco fields, old barns, race horses and more while often biking down a narrow road that cars can only pass by having two wheels in the grass! The locals are friendly and often are found in the general store discussing the news. I've found rural Kentucky to be one of my favorite areas to ride with friends. They always return for my annual ride and marvel that there are roads like these in the midwest. You might be pleasantly surprised and wonder why you haven't given Kentucky a try for your summer ride!<br />
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Click <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/users/24018">Ralf's Remote Rides</a> to see cycling routes in Indiana and Kentucky with cue sheets and gpx files.
Scroll down to "Events" on the left side and pick from several 300+ mile five day routes.
Please contact me if you have any questions on routes!
cbike2@gmail.com<br />
k the link: Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-58103239356240298592016-01-30T07:33:00.000-05:002016-01-30T12:04:51.864-05:00Evansville IN to Toledo OH<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoo8OUVLgRY69CSl3KXLCsmLPNfKSeaUOxR1KgsmEoHPkOaOtpVKHurBrcTdHterRHZ6ht5pwJQ86my93q5U_iVJLm86av8S2sVPAgRGdH9vO06NNTi5ZE9MDUnU8McAmmQ4dkoSKia30h/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-01-30+at+7.13.45+AM.png" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoo8OUVLgRY69CSl3KXLCsmLPNfKSeaUOxR1KgsmEoHPkOaOtpVKHurBrcTdHterRHZ6ht5pwJQ86my93q5U_iVJLm86av8S2sVPAgRGdH9vO06NNTi5ZE9MDUnU8McAmmQ4dkoSKia30h/s640/Screen+Shot+2016-01-30+at+7.13.45+AM.png" /></a>
View <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/events/Evansville-to-Ft-Wayne">Seven Routes for Evansville IN - Toledo OH For Total of 475 Miles</a> with Q-sheets and GPX Tracks</large>Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-78426870471937960482015-07-16T11:16:00.001-04:002016-08-10T17:45:29.162-04:00RRRiK 2015 - Five days of biking in South Central Kentucky<div style="text-align: justify;">
With our move to Kentucky in 2010 the preplanning branched out to others for help. Duane took charge of the SAG trailer which has been around since the 1988 RAGBRAI and Rob readied the SAG van which had come from his sister Sherrie as she moved to WA. The group has spread ever further over the years making me wonder where the next ten years takes us! Rather than overnighting at five different places I decided to use a suggestion from Phyllis to ride loops from a couple of smaller cities in South central Kentucky. In the fall of 2014 Phyllis and I headed to the Berea area with some preplanned routes and several bits of info on dining and sites to see. The results of the preplanning plus a revisit to the area in the spring of 2015 produced five nice routes In the Berea area</div>
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The group of 13 from Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky and Washington state gathered in Berea at a local hotel the day before the ride, some we had not seen since last years ride! It was great to just set and talk for the evening before the ride.<br />
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6387816">Day 1 Berea SE</a> < Route Map</h2>
We rode out of town from the hotel with rolling hills beginning quickly. As we ventured more to the SE the hills became more aggressive and the roads were quite remote. Very little traffic however heading up one hill we encountered a pickup pulling a trailer. <br />
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While the bikes faired well there wasn't enough space for the SAG vehicle to pass. A short delay took place while the SAG was backed down the hill to a driveway. We later stopped in Sand Gap for lunch at RT's but just before that was an ice cream drive-in where a couple of us picked chocolate malts, nice cool-down appetizer.<br />
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After lunch we ventured back toward Berea but the dark clouds were gathering. We started looking for shelter and found an old abandoned road-side store with a porch and decided to stop. No more than five minutes later heavy rain set in. We waited for a while with little let up on the rain. Part of the group, all that would fit in the SAG, headed back to Berea. The remaining riders waited for a break in the rain or the SAG to return. The break finally came and we enjoyed a faboulos ride back to Berea with the SAG showing up behind us.<br />
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6452565">Day 2 Mt Vernon SW</a> < Route Map</h2>
We transported South to Mt Vernon parking at a local high school. The route took us through Broadhead then onto some "goat path" width roads and then<br />
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Briary Creek where we either waded across or got the nerve to ride through the water. From there it was lunch at Ruckle's Restaurant where the birthday boy was served some chocolate pie compliments of the restaurant. After lunch we ventured back across Briary Creek then East back to the high school.<br />
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/6474171">Day 3 Berea SW</a> < Route Map</h2>
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Again we started at the hotel in Berea and followed along Copper Creek Rd and Turkey Town Rd to Crab Orchard where we lunched at the Past-Time Cafe. Many of the locals were dining with the special having a German slant. From there we headed North to 3246 and Yoder's General Store. A few on the ride wondered if it had a connection to the Yoder's store on the Amishland Ride in Northern Indiana. 3246 continued on to Narrow Gap Rd, another goat path, which was great. The pace slowed and everyone enjoyed the remote scenery. The remaining road back into Berea was a variation of crooked and rolling to short sections of straight road like Northern Indiana.<br />
After the ride we transported to Richmond 12 miles North of Berea.<br />
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/7499120">Day 4 Lancaster SW</a> < Route Map</h2>
We drove 15 miles to Lancaster parking in the center of town to start the ride. The route quickly exited town on a low traffic road which turned even more remote at 5.5 miles onto Fall Lick Rd. We then made an easy 500' climb around 3.5 miles long to an overlook. From there it was 13 miles to Sanford for lunch. Mostly downhill with a couple of short but steep climbs kept the pulse rate up. The group split up for lunch with half going to the Bluebird Bistro and the rest to Coleman's Deli. Both had great food and fun. I went to the deli which was a working pharmacy (still) and a lunch counter. Three senior ladies were waiting tables and they all flocked to greet us ready to take orders. I asked for a chocolate malt which came in minutes. I then ordered a chicken salad sandwich which also came quickly. The others who had been exploring the place wondered how I received my food so quickly. They soon found out and three others ordered chocolate malts which were HUGE and shared with the others. After lunch we grulled up a gradual slope to Junction City then picked up a tailwind heading back to Lancaster. We passed Hubbel Church which had been purchased by a local farmer who then restored it and the parsonage for the comunity. Continuing on Old Danville Rd we encountered a road construction ahead sign at around 54 miles but assumed as usual "we are bikers and we can walk past the problem" plowing ahead for two miles we encountered the problem.<br />
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We would be held up for a bit waiting for a hydraulic hose to be replaced on a truck We talked a bit and a few decided to turn back to the next road and bypass the construction. Since most all of the group were out of staters they didn't realize that Kentucky doesn't have many rural roads crossing rivers and streams plus unlike upper midwest there are not any straight roads. The detour would have added around 15 miles on some highways to the days mileage. In addition the delay was going to be a while and the clouds were looming to the west. Talking with a local farmer who also was blocked from getting home we learned about a farmer's lane going up over the hill then down into another farmers pasture (with cows) where we could bypass the construction. it worked and a short discussion with the other farmer allowed us to continue the remaining three miles into Lancaster<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzweD6Z9QHKECweIJ1tegFClR8q8DjCBImoI0GqYcA9UjIf-ALZabeDGJULaNJ9QiTJk6RlVrTNhMLozoQfSWLSJF8chypkuoLHbgCAsotr_Lhus4arW5-5LYuTZn2BTrWt2VAYCQyiXj/s1600/IMG_0933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEzweD6Z9QHKECweIJ1tegFClR8q8DjCBImoI0GqYcA9UjIf-ALZabeDGJULaNJ9QiTJk6RlVrTNhMLozoQfSWLSJF8chypkuoLHbgCAsotr_Lhus4arW5-5LYuTZn2BTrWt2VAYCQyiXj/s640/IMG_0933.JPG" width="480" /></a><br />
Where is my mountain bike?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQF0169mXv4wBUInsY2fvONOEycuoNnXFd8iRcqCU1abdo4YVUqZQk6dD20Ji9kk22pPqnA49kSHA3Mv53cRfRkQ6e1L4bJ4N9fBoJJ5625aWh5O4p4Oz5JNPLdlL76nbIOEE7okcqGAtX/s1600/IMG_4824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQF0169mXv4wBUInsY2fvONOEycuoNnXFd8iRcqCU1abdo4YVUqZQk6dD20Ji9kk22pPqnA49kSHA3Mv53cRfRkQ6e1L4bJ4N9fBoJJ5625aWh5O4p4Oz5JNPLdlL76nbIOEE7okcqGAtX/s640/IMG_4824.jpg" width="640" /></a>Back at the hotel we ordered pizza plus some "sweetened and un-sweetened" iced tea!!!<br />
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/7240476">Day 5 Richmond SW</a> < Route Map</h2>
This day was a wash for riding due to heavy rains all day. We all opted to do a <a href="http://www.woodfordreserve.com/distillery/tours/">Bourbon Tour and Tasting at the Woodford Reserve</a> distillery South of Frankfort. It turned out to be a great tour and tasting to wrap up a great ride in South Central Kentucky!<br />
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<br />Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-24130680444858495782014-12-11T08:24:00.001-05:002014-12-15T15:36:30.332-05:00My winter hobby!I just finished up this bright, maybe gaudy to some, side table!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3w7f3I3yPYjS4_USCEoTmsmJW1plmq8pM0hZbz3TkqXmx4Xce4yjT42loSdEcNWHPMl8thRR4QOsgkMi20nB9zXCXK0Rb_UFZyt9COoW-vNG2WqiG1LdUpVijT-n8NQIx9URbZXDW97Y0/s1600/DSC06082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3w7f3I3yPYjS4_USCEoTmsmJW1plmq8pM0hZbz3TkqXmx4Xce4yjT42loSdEcNWHPMl8thRR4QOsgkMi20nB9zXCXK0Rb_UFZyt9COoW-vNG2WqiG1LdUpVijT-n8NQIx9URbZXDW97Y0/s1600/DSC06082.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a><br />
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Check out my <a href="http://bikepartsfurniture.blogspot.com/">Bicycle Art</a> blog!<br />
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Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-18021394919117649462014-06-21T16:47:00.004-04:002014-06-21T16:48:57.632-04:00RRRiK 2014 - Five days of biking in SE Kentucky with bits if TN and VA.;In early June my faithful group of 12 departed for SE Kentucky for my 20th annual ride on remote roads.<br />
Here's the results!<br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Day 1 </span><a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3452210" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Hazard to Harlan</a><br />
Twelve met on Hazard. two from KY, three from IN, six from MI and one from DC for the twentieth Ralf's Ride. As in the past we had a SAG van with snacks, cooler and spare parts. We were ready of riding remote roads in appalachia. The weather report for the whole week was sketchy but all were determined so we headed out for the back country. Since there were few groceries along the way and no restaurants we packed a few sandwich fixins along with snacks. Earlier contact with a local grocery confirmed only ham and bologna sandwiches! As expected we did hit a mile of gravel around the 20 mile mark. There were some minor sprinkles for an hour then clear weather. The climb up Pine Mountain was moderate with a sharp increase near the top. Once there we started the Little Shepard Trail which looks like rollers on the profile but actually is short aggressive ups/downs. After 10 miles of this we were ready for the four mile decent into Harlan. We showered up, had a brewski and snack then headed to dinner at a nearby Mexican restaurant she the skies opened up with a vengeance, great timing! Good nights sleep at Comfort Inn.<br />
<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Day 2 </span><a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3452226" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Harlan to Cumberland gap</a><br />
Again another day without food along the way so the cooler was well stocked. Again some rain but reasonable. We biked beautiful remote roads to the Cumberland Gap NP and were required to push our bikes over the gap for one mile to Cumberland Gap Tennesee. There we checked in at the Cumberland Gap Inn. An older hotel with nice rooms and a good manager. We walked the small touristy but unique town visiting the Bicycle Museum, Visitors Center and coffee shop. Dinner at a local Italian restaurant.<br />
<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Day 3 </span><a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3453355" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Cumberland Gap to Pennington Ga</a><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">p</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Since breakfast was sketchy (Hardee's) our SAG driver arranged with the local coffee shop/tea room a really nice breakfast plate. Fluffy eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes, toast and heaps of coffee to get us on the road, yummy! We climbed the hill heading out of town and crossed the highway heading to a "Road Closed" route. We had previously found this where a bicycle could pass thru a field of kudzu to Harrogate TN bypassing the major highway. What we found was the roadway had been repaired and vehicles could now pass thru making it easier for the SAG van to stay with us. We followed scenic roads </span></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">including Frog Level Rd</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">for 25 miles stopping in Rose Hill at Lou's Diner. Lou was there along with a waitress/cook and served up some good sandwiches for the group. After that we followed scenic 621 for 17 miles into Pennington Gap VA. Pennington Gap is a mostly a coal mining town which has been hit hard with the reduction in coal requirements. Lodging in Pennington Gap is scarce and the Convient Inn worked out. Dinner at Ruby's nearby was one of the better restaurants in town.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Day 4 </span><a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3453426" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Pennington Gap to Benham</a><br />
Breakfast restaurants were limited to McDonalds or Hardee's however we made do. We were off for a 26 mile warmup ride on VA 606 to the 7 mile Black Mountain climb. It started out easy then settled in at a consistent 7-8% reminding us of the Blue Ridge climbs. We sat back and ground away for over an hour then regrouped at the top for a snack and cold drink. Then it was 19 miles of Kentucky downhill into Benham for an overnight at the Schoolhouse Inn. We found great acomditations there with a super staff to take care of our needs.<br />
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<span style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Hay 5 </span><a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/3454410" style="font-family: arial; font-size: 14px;">Benham to Hazard</a><br />
Breakfast at the Benham Schoolhouse then on our way to kingdom Come SP a few miles down the road. At mile three the route took an abrupt left turn and UP for three miles leveling off on the Little Shepard Trail. Grades of 18-20% on the first mile then teasing us with easier grades then a switchback with increasing grades for a bit. Unfortunately our SAG vehicles mixed a turn and headed the wrong way on the trail but did catch back with us at the intersection to US119. The Little Shepardf Trail again worked the group but better pavement conditions did improve the ride over day one. We enjoyed a short break at US119 then enjoyed a nice three mile downhill to Little Cowan Rd. We followed creek valleys for a beautiful ride of 20 miles then busted a gut heading up Elk Creek Rd and stopping at the top for lunch. The ride finished off in Hazard with a short half miler up to the starting point.<br />
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All in all a great ride with again fantastic scenery and friendly locals. One of this year's new riders commented that the ride was great and a bit more challenging than he had expected. He does want to return however and had wished he had started with us 20 years ago!Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-26126949243402663802013-09-10T06:19:00.001-04:002013-10-07T18:02:30.893-04:00A little off topic but still bicycle related! Spinergy Wheels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Some really unique bicycle components </span><span style="font-size: large;">just</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;">keep hanging on!</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgunSV7DsaWliCUrf7oFcOQjjVGDHUpd8sQJVhJDoFXao8cob3lXY3qmH7p9M9yY1Ub7Gj2by7zjAjp8-3ZVjQ_3P9MPS_6Xgwyz-pFzE5I7LQQLBHInrQwiUgdD53o4fV0jJzK3FzbdVv/s1600/DSC00342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgunSV7DsaWliCUrf7oFcOQjjVGDHUpd8sQJVhJDoFXao8cob3lXY3qmH7p9M9yY1Ub7Gj2by7zjAjp8-3ZVjQ_3P9MPS_6Xgwyz-pFzE5I7LQQLBHInrQwiUgdD53o4fV0jJzK3FzbdVv/s400/DSC00342.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
While helping a friend relocate he took me to his stash of 'relegated to the basement" parts and handed me his prized wheels from the late 90s saying "do something with these"! He was aware of <a href="http://bikepartsfurniture.blogspot.com/">my bike art</a> but I assumed he just wanted to rid the stores. Several months later I asked his wife if he might be interested in a table using the wheels. She was excited and said he would be thrilled with it. A couple of months later the crated table was loaded on a uHaul in Cincinnati destined for their home in Washington. The wife had not told him and he was completely surprised with the result!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://bikepartsfurniture.blogspot.com/">Charlie's Bicycle Art</a></span></div>
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<br />Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-24295370615431951602013-08-07T16:20:00.001-04:002015-05-22T10:09:41.109-04:00A great route just South of Cincinnati Starting just off Interstate 75 At Exit 171<br />
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Riding Arnold;'s Creek Loop in Northern kentucky this AM I thought about all of the cyclists traveling on the Interstate 75 corridor through the Cincinnati area wondering how many roadies with bikes could use a 2-3 hour ride on remote county roads to break up their trip. </div>
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If you haven't ridden in Kentucky here's your chance to see some really beautiful country.</div>
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The first ride starts at Denny's on the West side of exit 171. The second shorter ride starts just five miles down KY14 past Denny's to the Southwest in Verona. Most of the really scenic remote parts are included in both loops.</div>
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2470406">Arnold's Creek Loop Walton</a> - 42 Miles link to Ride With GPX track and map.</div>
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Depart from the Denny's at exit 171 on Interstate 75 just South of the 71/75 split. Heading out the backway from Denny's is great getting into the backcountry very quickly. Of course there is quite a bit of climbing however that brings tons of beautiful country. Highlites of the ride are several barns chocked full of tobacco drying in the fall breeze and rundown buildings along the way. Overall almost the whole 42+ mile route is on beautiful roads. The road surface is for the most part great with Arnold's Creek Rd having some patched pavement in places but no broken areas. Note the speed limit on Arnold's Creek road, a cyclists dream! Be sure to bring good gears, seasoned legs and a smile and you'll have a great ride.<br />
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<a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2505123">Arnold's Creek Loop Verona - 30 Miles</a> link to Ride With GPX track and map.</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pdt87xdC8g">A short slideshow of the ride!</a></div>
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-68119188166846182952013-06-30T13:06:00.000-04:002014-03-17T09:34:36.363-04:00RRRiK 2013 - Five Day Ride in SE Kentucky and West Virginia<div style="text-align: center;">
View the <span style="color: blue; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004cac75446db1fa6dd1&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=37.953318,-82.491206&spn=0.786816,0.908311&source=embed">RRRiK 2013</a></b></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004cac75446db1fa6dd1&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=37.953318,-82.491206&spn=0.786816,0.908311&source=embed"> Route</a> in Google Maps!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">In Mid June a group of 14 met in Grayson Kentucky for my 19th year of remote road rides in the mid west. Riders from MI, IN, KY and one from OR returned for a dose of back country riding on the most remote paved roads I can find. Pitfalls for this year were services along the way. Lodging was not an issue however getting lunch daily became a challenge.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>*Day 1 Grayson KY to Louisa KY*</b> We had intended to eat at Paw Paw's near Willard run by locals however, a followup call earlier in the week found that the locals tired of the effort and were only open on the weekends. Staff at the hotel in Grayson recommended Weavers Market / Bakery run by a mennonite group.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5RW3W4BF0rdq_PvRxHvBOnXPPkwnMmxpXf8KFhnbPmTKc8jk4WpDufz1B9OgfuA_QdoPKkYYQwGE_G6joexxFGZB3ffEwCXneXBRMxhneoePS3yMbrTN_hG-Asv5FEPubl5DNbWYav1o/s1600/IMG_9329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5RW3W4BF0rdq_PvRxHvBOnXPPkwnMmxpXf8KFhnbPmTKc8jk4WpDufz1B9OgfuA_QdoPKkYYQwGE_G6joexxFGZB3ffEwCXneXBRMxhneoePS3yMbrTN_hG-Asv5FEPubl5DNbWYav1o/s400/IMG_9329.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"> This turned out to be great allowing us to purchase deli sandwiches and wonderful homemade fig bars for a picnic along the route.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Speaking of the route most attending the ride have dumbed down after a few years of attending and aren't interested in map reading, que sheets or GPX tracks. They return for some of the best road riding around; with narrow paved roads, very minimal traffic, and scenery that can knock your socks off. So for me it's a piece of cake after wintertime research and a GPS. This year started off with a little operator error in that I had not turned off the auto-reroute on the GPS. We had taken a diversion from the planned route to the bakery and the GPS then rerouted us on the shortest route to Louisa. All were cruising along while I was scratching my head thinking "why are we on KY 1 so long". Stopping the group a few miles further I fessed up that the leader had messed up and we were now heading out on uncharted roads to get back on the route. All were fine with maybe a little concern from two new members. The rest of the first day went well with a stop for our deli sandwich at a beautiful family cemetery along the way. A couple of dogs joined us first then Harvey stopped over to see what was up. He lived behind the cemetery and took care of the family resting place. Harvey told us of his seven brothers only two remained. I asked him if he wanted a beer which got a quick "sure" and a trip to the cooler. He looked among the darker beers scratching his head then picked out a Sam Adams and smiled.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqP4enhroGwvn9v3YA3D1bRSFyGQggxMANqkeDAPqqKq3qQ9jLl2quAW0L6fHp8FK-z4J_eGDjjKdn7PkTP6NPQwu65sPx9MBVTKhzGtlt1SeaY1gRoB-5O9yHm0EHnfZJzxaR-PcezS7-/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqP4enhroGwvn9v3YA3D1bRSFyGQggxMANqkeDAPqqKq3qQ9jLl2quAW0L6fHp8FK-z4J_eGDjjKdn7PkTP6NPQwu65sPx9MBVTKhzGtlt1SeaY1gRoB-5O9yHm0EHnfZJzxaR-PcezS7-/s400/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+007.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We traveled on in the back country and interesting road names arriving at the Louisa Best Western with 60 miles or so and ready for some cold brew. Dinner at a local Italian restaurant.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>*Day 2 Louisa KY to Chief Logan SP WV*</b> The group started out in Louisa KY along the Tug Fork River then across the river into West Virginia. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-Fl6YazKrkiYLfKFU9NC30onPI-iHBgbgNLeMZLiM_l8e3FgvtgGyrQ-Bmyy7iTRj7p9Hvb4U-doXb0n6ZZBN5cD8it-pfcqRlkeB4i_iYqfu60w6IjytxYHwRExrrc1zmHsyfBqSEsQ/s1600/IMG_0572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-Fl6YazKrkiYLfKFU9NC30onPI-iHBgbgNLeMZLiM_l8e3FgvtgGyrQ-Bmyy7iTRj7p9Hvb4U-doXb0n6ZZBN5cD8it-pfcqRlkeB4i_iYqfu60w6IjytxYHwRExrrc1zmHsyfBqSEsQ/s400/IMG_0572.JPG" height="320" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Most river crossings are on highways but the chance to get on Tug River Rd came quickly. A narrow paved road along the railroad and river then on to Salt Petre Rd </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">and finally Mill Creek Rd all of which were true backcountry. A quick stop in Dunlow due to threatening skys and a brief conversarion with local James.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Rc-70sv95bW5dsXRy600_XqZflmCAnVOtlgwV3wZK4Yn6E1yrn3mvF4_U1ulYredOAQ5niL43zILro2wTLN33cM09Qwg61WNR2R_zeeUcAsopBgRmecIDtWyckXlcI6-S_Ijc63ueSMy/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Rc-70sv95bW5dsXRy600_XqZflmCAnVOtlgwV3wZK4Yn6E1yrn3mvF4_U1ulYredOAQ5niL43zILro2wTLN33cM09Qwg61WNR2R_zeeUcAsopBgRmecIDtWyckXlcI6-S_Ijc63ueSMy/s400/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+017.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Dunlow station and we're on the railroad bed!</span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">He talked of his mother catching the train there when she was a child. James talked about the book "Last Train to Dunlow" <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">a definitive history of Wayne County, West Virginia during the turbulent time following the Civil War and through the coming of the N & W Railroad. Includes history of the CCC Camps in Wayne County, history of the land speculators, train wrecks and collisions. After leaving James at the Dunlow Station, w</span>e stopped for sandwiches at Copley's Deli South of Missouri Branch then backtracked to 12 Pole Rd which is a paved abandoned railroad bed, now a road.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0y6F4iNJItjIzLRjW_iJv8kiWE2_5YtmN_VvjXknfD_FZD7pL9dvEeH_UR5ZIVhvKrpwRvAN6YanroHwZCkbhbzFg3r-FWUmRieBPe8m8V1nh_Vcwg73CzsgZehzaM2r7j7dwDhT9PXaR/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0y6F4iNJItjIzLRjW_iJv8kiWE2_5YtmN_VvjXknfD_FZD7pL9dvEeH_UR5ZIVhvKrpwRvAN6YanroHwZCkbhbzFg3r-FWUmRieBPe8m8V1nh_Vcwg73CzsgZehzaM2r7j7dwDhT9PXaR/s320/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+029.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfBJSgCASPS7ITy0SVBKr0SPs4iJ493KZegE4M4Wno9cPi68A0O5l9kNZWWY539KN9bXjeyNZuUdI-gob1u3I4GcYAYNgZ-8BG9gN1vW9MujVBoBtM2udlHo0Fh5Ef5fx0ISXE5Yq4psV/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWfBJSgCASPS7ITy0SVBKr0SPs4iJ493KZegE4M4Wno9cPi68A0O5l9kNZWWY539KN9bXjeyNZuUdI-gob1u3I4GcYAYNgZ-8BG9gN1vW9MujVBoBtM2udlHo0Fh5Ef5fx0ISXE5Yq4psV/s320/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+067.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">12 Pole Rd</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There are places where new road has been added over the years but we stayed on the railbed road as much as possible. At one point we ventured on along the railbed as it became smaller and smaller finally ending at a mobile home! It was a U turn time to head back to the roadway but before making it back the rains came and we found a shelter at a local church. Moving on after the rain, our plan was to stop at the Cabwaylingo State Park for lunch at one of their shelters. We arrived and within a few minutes a horendous storm blew through depositing a dead tree in front and back of our SAG, close one! The storm passed but the skys looked threatening so six riders sagged on to the hotel while the rest followed along toward the end. The weather held and all arrived at Chief Logan SP in the mid afternoon. The state park lodge is located at the top of a good climb with great views of the surrounding mountain tops.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>*Day 3 Chief Logan SP WV to Matewan WV*</b> The day started out with a great downhill from the lodge only to head back up, cross the highway and back down into the back country. The route was again beautiful and remote following along the creek however, too soon, the valley began to narrow and we were headed up. The hill on Smokehouse Fork-Harts Creek Rd<b> </b>turned to be a killer and quite possibly the worst hill most of us have ridden. Making it up requires good low gears, strong legs and determination. A stop at the top to refresh then right back down only to climb again going to Dingess. The <a href="http://www.wvencyclopedia.org/articles/1926">Dingess Tunnel</a> was to be a high point of the day and did turn out to be a scary experience. The unlite tunnel is 3,327 feet long, paved, one way and supposedly haunted.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBAEoZSOIvR2a_OJ1j6yV3z9kEuTb9eDRANTHNVmvFcVonvN3S0H7ZW1a1VMgcaFUf40vYiXJo53lw7FcQXQRSzZD0WUQAiGlosRhhOmfbpcTi2F19_tLjZd9_fPlUBj44MK39sEhiwu5/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+088.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPBAEoZSOIvR2a_OJ1j6yV3z9kEuTb9eDRANTHNVmvFcVonvN3S0H7ZW1a1VMgcaFUf40vYiXJo53lw7FcQXQRSzZD0WUQAiGlosRhhOmfbpcTi2F19_tLjZd9_fPlUBj44MK39sEhiwu5/s400/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+088.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Well Ms Ralf, is it haunted or not?</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Being on bicycles we had prepared for the tunnel by placing the SAG in front of the group to keep oncoming traffic from coming at us. We also had headlights and flashing tail lights on each bike. Even with these precautions we found the trip through the tunnel to be <b>dangerous</b> with water and some gravel in places. <b>Should we return to the area on a bicycle we'll SAG through the tunnel or flag down a local pickup truck and beg for a ride through the tunnel.</b> As friendly as most locals were in WV, the request would probably be honored. After passing through the tunnel we verred off and on Old NW Railroad Bed Rd and 12 Pole Creek Rd passing Laurel Lake. It's worth the time to use 12 Pole Creek as much as possible. While there is minim<span style="background-color: white;">al traffic on the main road and it is downhill most of the way to Lenore and lunch. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeTPsyg_yVSowgdx25OM3Bz4RbcSivvSCumTIU7o1wXjoxJ5RpnqY6qUznAsXZTRYGb2iHY8hOfd7AMXcPZWYopz13qIHPMHRdeyaQT31Gi2Agu-o5jhBVKyJNXUwQ9z9yJQVBEs-kj-b/s1600/2013-06-14+13.02.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeTPsyg_yVSowgdx25OM3Bz4RbcSivvSCumTIU7o1wXjoxJ5RpnqY6qUznAsXZTRYGb2iHY8hOfd7AMXcPZWYopz13qIHPMHRdeyaQT31Gi2Agu-o5jhBVKyJNXUwQ9z9yJQVBEs-kj-b/s320/2013-06-14+13.02.12.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Cheech's Pizza is run by Bev and Robert Adkins </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;">and their menu fit the bill well. Robert was on his way to work, driving a coal truck, when I talked to him in the parking lot. Bev was in the kitchen doing a great job of preparing our lunch. She had thought we were coming the next day however they did a great job of fueling our engines. After the rush Bev joined us in the dining room with many stories of the area and people. She was a hoot! Leaving Lenore the only way was on WV highways and four miles of US52. We maintained single line with space between the riders for safety but we found that traffic was fairly low on both highways. <span style="background-color: white;">At </span></span><span style="background-color: white;">Delbarton we turned onto WV65 to cross over the mountain heading to . There's a new road plus a closed road that is not maintained! As we rode toward Matewan we turned onto Chaffin St and used the paved trail under the highway and railroad entering the town through an open gate in the </span><span style="background-color: white;">floodwall.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityb83N79wEdRANhzvyEbsBwuRIgg131MnYHWt0M_KEN5ENOEX3vEJvP5xhRKJYmDPo9UhyphenhyphenUelS8ie4PyZ3aW2dUyVib5HW2VrSpnPRjl2RM2b3Ma9B-Kr1ymbazuJz63j4Nnaa8SbFzhN/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+108.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEityb83N79wEdRANhzvyEbsBwuRIgg131MnYHWt0M_KEN5ENOEX3vEJvP5xhRKJYmDPo9UhyphenhyphenUelS8ie4PyZ3aW2dUyVib5HW2VrSpnPRjl2RM2b3Ma9B-Kr1ymbazuJz63j4Nnaa8SbFzhN/s400/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+108.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Entering Matewan through the </b><span style="background-color: white;"><b>floodwall!</b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">We stopped there for pics and talked to a lo</span>cal. He mentioned that a flood four years back went high enough that gates for the railroad required closing to keep the town from Flooding. Inside the protected town we arrived at the <a href="http://www.historicmatewanhouse.com/">Historic Matewan House B&B</a> run buy Sharon Garland.<br />Sharon had many goodies including two cakes, drinks and other snacks. We were in heaven with her hospitality and facility. Five nice rooms in the main house and a bunkhouse in the back. Her breakfast was clearly the best on the trip! To prepare, serve and cleanup the breakfast, she had three others helping out. In town we found several interesting character, a<b> </b>bear of a dog</span><br />
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and a bluegrass singer in the pizza place across the street. I walked into the place and found her on a small stage playing a guitar and singing to an empty room. After a few minutes I headed back to the B&B to get an audience. Several joined in and enjoyed an hour of great music and bonding with a local artist. What fun!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>*Day 4 Matewan WV to <a href="http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/jenny-wiley/">Jenny Wiley SP</a> KY*</b> We passed through Matewan then across the Tug Fork River into Kentucky. Now we were in the land of the Hatfield and McCoy feud. Several historical plaques and a nice museum in Matewan's old train depot are worth a visit. We biked SW out of town on secondary roads with great views of the valley and many interesting sights! On road 1056 we left the Tug Fork River valley on a seemingly endless climb to a spectacular view of the countryside.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We parraled US119 on Big Creek Rd to Sidney where fixins were available for a picnic lunch. Along the way we encountered a stray kitten and a few obsticals in the road.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OodzZet6Pto_4lA1ej48IZ4-ylH3SqCry-QvCSb_1vj8AEHwdBgDSSTLW_N3zdYryXMTQsqxok7TPOh8ErnpI6Ap5q1nB6Q3PPivXZ_H1ok0G_QIxj78U86026OZUAqTsTFEJw0UOxTN/s1600/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OodzZet6Pto_4lA1ej48IZ4-ylH3SqCry-QvCSb_1vj8AEHwdBgDSSTLW_N3zdYryXMTQsqxok7TPOh8ErnpI6Ap5q1nB6Q3PPivXZ_H1ok0G_QIxj78U86026OZUAqTsTFEJw0UOxTN/s400/Kentucky+-+Ralfs+Rural+Ride+-+Jun+2013+137.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Leaving Sidney we headed North for around five miles again on Big Creek Rd. This was Saturday when the coal trucks did not run from the two local mines which we passed on our way to Rockhouse Fork Rd. At this point began a 25 mile route meandering through some fabulous country. Only periodic residences with imaculate gardens, well kept simple homes, and seemingly endless rolling traffic free road. None of the group pushed the pace as we bathed in the scenery heading to Jenny Wiley State Park. Arriving at the park the more energized boys hauled the cooler full of refreshments down steps to a patio overlooking scenic Dewey Lake. A comfortable stay at the lodge refreshed the group for the last day into Grayson.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>*Day 5 <a href="http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/jenny-wiley/">Jenny Wiley SP</a> to Grayson KY*</b> Leaving the lodge we rode along Dewey Lake for eight miles then crossing the dam on our way to Paintsville for a stop at the IGA for lunch fixins! Well the IGA wasn't open so we sent the SAG vehicle on past the town to find food. The peleton charged on with great scenery, couple of stiff climbs and interesting Kentucky roads with no traffic. The SAG van caught up with us near an abandoned strip mine where we refreshed with cool drinks. On to Boone where the, closed on Sunday, grocery made another convenient place to regroup. We then pedaled on looking for a nice lunch stop and around the corner was the Cherokee Baptist Church which had just wrapped Sunday morning service. The pastor talked with several of the group and offered coffee and restroom facilities to the group.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>A sermon on the way to Grayson?</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">After lunch, and around the 45 mile mark, the route slowly straightened and flattened, and suddenly a paceline was formed with the speed nearly doubling the last four days rate. It was going home time and they wanted to get there. It was a good feeling to know that everyone experienced a great ride through apallacia.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Ralf's Rides:</span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Starting in 1994 a group of friends from Lafayette Indiana had been attending seven days rides in the midwest and were weary of doing the camping scene. I proposed that we do a five day ride in Southern Indiana staying at state parks and hotels while being followed by a SAG to carry the essentials. The ride became Charlie's Southern Indiana Ride or "CSIR". This ran through 2000 when there were 22 attendees. The next few years I planned several different rides in Kentucky and Southern Indiana along with Copper Canyon, Maah Daah Hey trail in North Dakota, Blue Ridge Parkway and Natchez Trace. All were great experiences and wetted my desire to do more. In 2010 Phyllis and I relocated to Union Kentucky near Cincinnati where I found a lot more remote roads to ride. In 2011 we had the first Ralf's Rural </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Ride</span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">in Kentucky or "RRRiKy" and followed it up with RRRiKy 2012 and RRRiKy 2013!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This trip was the 19th annual ride that I have had with friends and I'm already looking at 2014! More than likely it will be in the SE Kentucky area with some of the days being surrounding states like Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. This winters scouting will turn up something.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">For those of you who have read the entire blog, I hope you have a desire to try some of the riding in Kentucky. It's totally different than other areas that may be high on cyclists lists to visit. I think I like it because it is ever changing. Beautiful scenery, struggling old towns, mules in the barn, a junk pickup beside a trailer, tobacco fields, tough hills, paved one lane roads and wonderful people who are bike friendly.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It's fun!</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Ralf's ultimate road conditions!</span></b></div>
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-88420806452329008952013-05-22T09:17:00.000-04:002013-06-27T06:08:58.423-04:00On the road to Falmouth KentuckyA few days ago I rode the loop out of <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/592891">Gardenersville KY to Falmouth</a> and back. Only a 32 mile route but still a good workout with plenty of hills. I took the camera to share a few of the sites. All of the recent rains have made the foliage very lush making for an extraordinarily beautiful ride. Years ago a biking buddy termed the narrow remote roads that I crave "goat paths" and it has stuck with me ever since. Riding these routes might take longer to get to a destination however along the way you'll see wildlife, religion, nature, polltics, friends, locals and almost always local restaurants where the locals hang out.<br />
Riding in rural Kentucky to me always seems to be an experience, make that a great experience!<br />
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<br />Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-26540471454807871142013-02-18T19:07:00.000-05:002016-05-22T20:33:30.233-04:00Central Ohio to Lexington, KYCyclists heading South on the Little Miami Trail from Springfield/Xenia can pick up my <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2132083">Morrow OH to Agusta Kentucky</a> route which uses the <a href="http://www.augustaky.com/city/ferrycam.asp">Jenny Anne ferry</a> to cross the Ohio River from Higginsport Ohio to Augusta Kentucky. From there use my <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2152468">Augusta to Lexington</a> route for a scenic ride through North Central Kentucky. Cyclists coming from Indiana can use my <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/221146">Lafayette Indiana to Cincinnati</a> area route which connects to the Little Miami Trail just West of Morrow.<br />
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-39483165659172691572012-12-31T14:49:00.000-05:002012-12-31T23:17:49.497-05:00Ralf's Kind of RoadsI don't have videos of my rides however I did find this video on YouTube which looks to be from a motorcyclist. It looks quite a bit like the remote roads on my routes through Kentucky. The last part is on a seemingly one lane road. THIS is what I really enjoy.
Anyway watch the whole thing on this cold dreary day in Kentucky!<br />
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Remote Roads of KentuckyCharlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-33796960882030432882012-11-29T12:11:00.000-05:002012-12-08T15:33:30.695-05:00Ralf's Five Day Rides KentuckySince 1994 I've dragged friends with me on remote road bike rides always throwing in interesting sites along the way. They have rarely if ever been disappointed. After relocating from Indiana to Northern Kentucky in 2010 I had a whole new state of backroads to take them on. Each of the following Google maps consists of five routes linked at overnight locations with lodging. They are intended as five day rides with a total mileage of around 300 to 350 miles. While they aren't extremely long rides favored by many riders the terrain can at times be challenging with plenty of hills and not many straight roads. Since the routes are in remote Kentucky it's good to carry plenty of snacks and water.
Oh, the RRRiK stands for Ralf's Rural Rides in Kentucky!
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<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=204119970119808413824.0004cf036047c9397f8af&msa=0">RRRiK 2011</a> Leaves from Crittenden Kentucky just South of the Greater Cincinnati area on Interstate 75 at exit 166. The ride passes through <a href="http://www.visitfrankfort.com">Frankfort</a> on the way to <a href="http://www.visitbardstown.com/t">Bardstown</a> then back overnighting at the <a href="http://www.shakervillageky.org">Shaker Village</a> near Harrodsburg. Lots of scenic backroads and consistent rolling terrain.
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<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004cf036047c9397f8af&ie=UTF8&ll=38.298245,-84.82895&spn=0.98005,1.27416&t=h&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004cf036047c9397f8af&ie=UTF8&ll=38.298245,-84.82895&spn=0.98005,1.27416&t=h&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">RRRiK 2011</a> in a larger map</small>
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<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=204119970119808413824.0004bc788a1a406fbca7f&msa=0">RRRiK 2012</a> again leaves from the Crittenden area but heads East overnighting in Maysville the first and fourth nights, <a href="http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/carter-caves/default.aspx">Carter Caves State Park</a> night two and <a href="http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/greenbo-lake/default.aspx">Greenbo Lake State Park</a> night three.
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<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004bc788a1a406fbca7f&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=9&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004bc788a1a406fbca7f&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=9&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">RRRiK 2012</a> in a larger map</small>
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<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msid=204119970119808413824.0004cac75446db1fa6dd1&msa=0">RRRiK 2013</a> will start in SE Kentucky at Grayson then heads to Louisa and into West Virginia to <a href="http://http://www.chiefloganstatepark.com">Chief Logan State Park</a>. From there we'll head back toward Kentucky but spend the night in Matewan West Virginia Virginia on the border of Kentucky where the <a href="http://hatfieldmccoycountry.com/feud/">Hatfield and McCoy</a> feud took place, well some of it. The last night will be at <a href="http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/jenny-wiley/default.aspx">Jenny Wiley State Park</a> in Kentucky and from there we'll head back to Grayson.
In the backcountry of West Virginia and SE Kentucky you could run into <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXghKHHzlXQ">Mountain Talk</a> which originated from the Scotts/Irish when they imigrated to America! Also some additional history of the area can be seen at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PJ7qqnkVaI&feature=g-high-rec">"Hillbillies: The Real Story"</a> which is a 90 minute History Channel presentation.
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<iframe width="425" height="350" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004cac75446db1fa6dd1&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=37.953318,-82.491206&spn=0.786816,0.908311&output=embed"></iframe><br /><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&msid=204119970119808413824.0004cac75446db1fa6dd1&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=37.953318,-82.491206&spn=0.786816,0.908311&source=embed" style="color:#0000FF;text-align:left">RRRiK 2013</a> in a larger map</large>Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-59468112481244678662012-11-03T11:25:00.000-04:002012-11-05T13:55:53.671-05:00Route from my book - Indiana Dunes State Park toward Lafayette, INI've recently had a request for route information passing through Indiana from Chicago area toward the Ohio river. I do have several routes that would get cyclists through Indiana on low traffic roads. Here's an example using the Lafayette to Indiana Dunes SP route.
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Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-88852127663229667842012-09-18T16:52:00.004-04:002012-09-18T19:13:02.520-04:00Some of Ralf's Favorite "Remote Roads" In Kentucky<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZFmUFwX-94M?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><br />
These are a few pics showing some roads that fit my "remote road" description. If you'll notice the majority of them are close to one lane wide and have no center line!
IMO that's when the riding is truly great!
Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-69563145862623136922012-09-15T10:29:00.000-04:002014-03-06T14:19:03.417-05:00True To Your Wheels<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4yboqavFFnM?fs=1" width="480"></iframe>
I have a Park TS-2 truing stand and have seen the optional attachments they provide. They looked good but limited when wanting something for both road wheels and mountain bike discs. I had constructed one which worked fairly well but when I saw this <a href="http://www.harborfreight.com/clamping-dial-indicator-93051.html#.UxjInv35KiM">tool at Harbor Freight</a> I realized that this would probably be perfect for my need. It came with a vise-grip wrench which could be used to attach it to the stand however I drilled a hole and bolted it permanently. I find the tool allows me to true disc brake rotors to 0.002 to 0.003 and wheels 0.005 to 0.010 providing the discs and wheels are not bent. Notice the white tip on the dial indicator shaft hear the disc. This is a nylon furniture tip and by placing this on the discs it makes a larger contact area and less dial flutter (bouncing) as it passes over holes in the disc. For me it is much easier to obtain quality truing using the dial indicator. Please excuse the amateur film maker's work.<br />
Oh, the tool costs around $35 at <a href="http://www.harborfreight.com/clamping-dial-indicator-93051.html">Harbor Freight</a>.Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-44343981377883736642012-08-02T22:43:00.001-04:002012-08-02T22:43:49.855-04:00Indiana Puzzle<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">Hello Charlie</span><div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">I just wanted to say how grateful I am for all the help you provided on my recent bike tour. I rode from Evansville, Indiana to my home in Haslett, Michigan. (crazyguyonabike journal - "<a href="http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/?o=1&doc_id=10810&v=Ch">Indiana Puzzle</a>") I used many parts of your Ft. Wayne/Evansville route, and also bought a copy of "Back Roads of Indiana", which was an enormous help when I deviated from your route. I also found that deviating from the route wasn't always such a great idea, since your routing was often safer and more fun. What a great resource you've provided for touring cyclists!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">I heard from a woman who's planning a short road trip from South Bend to Noblesville, using back roads and rail-trail. She's unsure how to route herself on the back roads sections. I'll be directing her to your website and also recommending she get herself a copy of the book.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: 'times new roman', 'new york', times, serif; font-size: 16px;">Just wanted to let you know - you are doing all of us "slowpoke travelers" a huge favor. Thanks again, and I wish you smooth roads and tailwinds.</span></div>
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</span></div>Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-45808831315408343252012-06-15T16:15:00.003-04:002016-08-21T13:03:14.375-04:00Newport to Louisville<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font: normal normal normal 18px/normal Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; position: relative;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">Previously the route verification was </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">complete from <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/4409217" style="color: #992211; text-decoration: none;">Newport to Carrollton</a> which is around 80 miles. Some secondary highways were required however there seemed to be very little traffic. Lots of what a friend calls "goat path" roads on the route which were around 9 -10 feet wide with remarkably good pavement. Some pretty healthy climbs along the way to get more of that great scenery.</span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">The past two days I rode from <a href="https://ridewithgps.com/routes/2133573">Carrollton to Louisville</a> and back verifying two routes. Both routes used the same roads South out of Carrollton to Sulphur where one route dropped down to Smithfield then West. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">The other route continued all the way to Louisville on the North side of the interstate entering the city on River Road. Ideally it made more sense to me to remain North of the Interstate being a slightly shorter distance and what appeared to be nice roads. In the end what I found was that the Southern route of 67 miles had more scenic roads pretty much all the way to Interstate 265. Inside the loop and past Anchorage it was typical city riding however. Not my type of riding but the destination is downtown Louisville and it was either this or River Road (North of Interstate route) which is two lane in places with minimal shoulder. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;">Once downtown riders can use the US31 bridge connecting to more routes in Indiana. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 21px;"><a href="http://louisvillewaterfront.com/explore-the-park/features/big-4-bridge/">The Big Four Pedestrian/Bicycle Bridge</a> at the East end of town is completed crossing the Ohio River into Indiana.</span></div>
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Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-9408435806366014952012-06-08T06:43:00.000-04:002012-09-18T16:50:33.634-04:00Five Day Ride in NE Kentucky "RRRiK 2012"<br />
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Ralf's Rural Ride in Kentucky 2012 </span>(RRRiK 2012)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Eleven riders joined me for an annual five day ride in interesting places. This year we biked through the hills of North Eastern Kentucky. Our journey started out South of Cincinnati where we parked at a local elementary school. Luckily, we had one person volunteer to drive a SAG and carry all of our personal items plus plenty of snacks and drinks.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The route followed mostly remote roads which put us on hills that at times exceeded the DOT gradient of 8% working the group pretty hard. The scenery, however, was fantastic.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Rural Kentucky with it’s own character of quilt patches on barns, tobacco planting, old farmsteads, and bible verses painted on barns kept the group entertained.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Road conditions for the most part were great. At times we would head deep into the back country such as Northwest of Grayson. Everman Road started out around 14’ wide but as the miles went on it narrowed to 8 - 10 wide and very twisty. The road then turned into “Iron Hill” road and got really narrow. The pavement did get to the point where we’d dodge a few potholes, however it continued on without gravel. It was actually a nice change for the ride.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Lodging in hotels and state parks made for a good nights sleep and the next days adventure. The lodging shows on the referenced routes below.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">The trip was 346 miles in beautiful country with very few straight or flat roads. Challenging uphills, roads along rivers / streams, an occasional dog or two.</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Several of the attendees who have biked in Colorado, Oregon, Utah, France, Italy and more really enjoyed the ride and felt challenged by the terrain. Some put it right up there with other exotic rides they had attended. </span>My personal feeling is that they enjoyed it because it was different and maybe exotic in it’s own way. Anyway, that’s my opinion and as you see by reading my blog I’m kinda stuck on riding in the midwest.</div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">So here are the five routes:</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Day 1 <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1105728">Crittenden to Maysville</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Day 2 <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1126787">Maysville to Carter Caves State Park</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Day 3 <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1126812">Carter Caves State Park to Greenbo State Park</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Day 4 <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1126823">Greenbo State Park to Maysville</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Day 5 <a href="http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1127593">Maysville to Crittenden</a></span></div>Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4091552758294598938.post-59271804899448686842012-05-15T14:36:00.000-04:002012-05-15T14:36:09.174-04:00Morning ride to Rabbit HashI decided to do the <a href="http://www.trimbleoutdoors.com/ViewTrip/1219608">Rabbit Hash and Big Bone Lick loop</a> this AM. Heading down Hathaway Rd. / KY536 I was thinking to maybe do Big Jimmy Hill for an extra workout so I turned right on Dale Williamson Rd which had recently been repaved! Damn, another excuse gone for avoiding Big Jimmy! So I'm committed and am cruising along pristine pavement to my doom. For those who haven't had the honor of Big Jimmy it's around one half mile of extremely steep hill starting out almost immediately with 0.2 mile of 18 to 20% grade. It's probably a good idea to get to your smallest chainring before turning onto Big Jimmy, it's immediate up! A stop at Rabbit Hash for a coke / snack and if your lucky a visit with the mayor on the bench outside the store! Beautiful scenery along the Ohio River and several nice hills to get a good workout.Charlie Myerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13960362849534610986noreply@blogger.com0