Today’s ride was again fantastic.  The combination of Wisconsin’s well-marked roads, rolling/flat landscape, beautiful scenery, and a slight tail wind (no it doesn’t always blow west to east), made for perfect cycling conditions.  I made the 70+ miles from Merrill to Thorp at an average speed of 15.9 mph without pushing hard. On a bike, that feels fast, especially because, except for climbs (see related post), I was often going 20 or faster.

Roads I took were lightly traveled, and Wisconsin drivers are very helpful, generally pulling into the other lane as they approach me from behind to give me space.

I often crest a hill and see a long stretch of road in front of me.  This used to unnerve me, as I thought, “What again?”.  Now, I find it encouraging, as I never see more than a couple of miles ahead, really just a few minutes.  I now think, “Good.  Another chunk of distance I can cover quickly”.  I also make a point of looking back at the end to see what I’ve put behind me.

This image is typical of the beautiful Wisconsin landscape, a combination of prosperous looking farms and woodlands.

I am in Mennonite territory, and saw amazing farms maintained only with animal power.  The most interesting sight I saw was what appeared to be a birthday party (a half dozen carriages parked at one house), with a bunch of kids in Mennonite garb bouncing on a trampoline! I wish I could have taken a picture, but it seemed too intrusive.

BTW: Mennonite kids are never overweight.  Funny what good food and exercise will do…