A bunch of Rippers met at the Starbucks in Winchester at 6am. We stood around debating routes until 6:12. For me there was no debate; the route was locked in my Garmin, so I rolled out and we were off.
Rich and Zan wanted to go short and fast, so they turned off in Belmont.
JD and Evan disappeared in Sherborn, so I went back to see what was what. Evan had a broken spoke and decided it wasn't wise to go another 75 miles. JD decided to escort him back to Winchester. We didn't realize until later that John's route back was almost the same distance, so they could have stayed with the group. (Thank you, Strava Flybys.)
Bill G suggested a coffee break, which we ignored, until he demanded a coffee break. What a great idea! It was cold (mid-40s) all morning, so walking into the warmth of Jasper Hill Cafe and Bistro in Holliston was a welcome relief. The scones were good; the coffee great; the company even better. Every long ride needs a relaxing stop for food and refreshment.
In Hopkinton, there was a little confusion about where the Marathon starting line was; then John led the remaining crew (Michelle, Bill, Josh) back to Winchester, and I continued solo to Wachusett Reservoir. Thanks for figuring out a route so we could ride together this morning, John. The ride through Needham, Dover, and Sherborn was scenic times ten. As JD said, Farm Street is a bikers' mecca, like Water Row, Strawberry Hill, or Monument Street.
I took a bunch of photos at Wachusett Dam. I found (by accident) a couple of off-road sections. I snuck around a gate because my Garmin told me that I had to go down Apple Blossom Lane in Stow. Oh yes, the sun eventually came out; it warmed up; and I took of my wind jacket and vest.
Fun ride; enjoy the photos!
Once my friends headed home, I put in the ear buds.
