De Ronde van Oeste Portlandia - Ouch

I did the De Ronde van Oeste Portlandia this weekend and wow that was hard. Probably the toughest day I've ever had in the saddle. 47 miles and 8000+ feet of climbing. For over 4 hours all I did was climb, descend, repeat. I started with a bunch of Portland Velo teammates but got separated before we even got to the first climb.

Before I left the house I tried to switch out my 11-23 cassette for a 12-25 but could not get the 11-23 off my wheel. I guess that will teach me to get all the way ready the night before. Even though my Cervelo RS has a compact on it I was really wanting that 25 tooth cog. I had to walk part of Bryentwood (22% grade) and and College (24% grade) but I road the rest of the way.

I hooked up with one of my PV buddies about 20 miles into the ride but was unable to hang with him when ever the road really kicked up. Anything above 17% and he was able to ride away from me (stupid 23 tooth cog).

We finished the day up on counsel Crest and it was awesome. 65 degrees, clear and a great day. I'm totally doing this ride again but I'll get a bigger cassette maybe even a 27 and bring more food.

Here's a few video's from the Event, sorry about the quality and the fingers in the screen, its my first time using my camera like this.

Pre Ride


Climbing


Other Riders


At the top Baby (I need to shave and get a hair cut :)