Is bicycling in the mountains a paradox? Riding uphill (Olde Stage Road) from 5400’ to 6087’ with 15% grade at one spot (my speed barely registering on the bicycle computer) and then losing all the elevation within minutes as I squeeze the brakes tightly to keep below 30 mph and avoid gravel (and near-certain spill) on the side of the road.
The 360 degree view at summit, of higher peaks in the Colorado Rockies to the west and the Great Plains to the east, is the gold ring, the reward, the “yes, I can still do it” assurance to guarantee this short ride will remain on the calendar. [Wonderland Lake and Colorado Rockies, Boulder, CO]