Holbrook, AZ to Gallup, NM
92mi , 2,372ft gain, 53-94F/sunny to partly cloudy to light rain with outflow winds
We made it to our third state, New Mexico!
Today’s route was completely on the i40 shoulder. We left Holbrook in a cool 53F and cruised for the first 10 miles before the 82 miles of uphill truly began. I didn’t get enough sleep last night, so I’m not shocked I started feeling tired later in the day around mile 70.
The highway was nice to me today, only one flat at mile 45! Another tire wire. Lots of people second guessing their tire durability, but I can honestly say any tire will get a puncture from these. People with gaitorskins are getting them, and I have the European version, Vittoria Rubino Pro’s with Graphine. I’ve not gotten a flat with thousands of miles in Phoenix in the last 8 months. Once we get off these highway shoulders we will do much better. These tire wires are basically needles. If I could, I might suggest tubeless. However that has its own issues. We’ve had 2 people with tubeless need new tires due to larger holes and plugs not holding.
I rotated my back tire to my front and front to back the day we worked on my bike, before yesterday’s ride. Once we are at day 20, off the highways, my plan is to change to new tires. My tires were put on a week and half before the trip, but you would be amazed at how chewed up they got from LA to here. They probably have 1,200 miles on them. One rider got 4 flats today, the group of guys said they got 12 or something crazy between the 4 of them. It might also be worth trying the slime tubes with sealant. Just as a test to see if these tire wire holes could seal. My guess is it would work.
Today was mostly a get us further day. Our stops today included a SAG at a gas station and the second one at a Navajo shop with Fry Bread. Many people have never had it, so that was a really fun stop before our last 30 miles into Gallup.
8 miles after the second SAG we crossed into New Mexico. I made those yeti bike stickers for the state signs and haven’t been able to yet. Today was the day I would make it happen.
Riding into Gallup we connected with old Route 66. We were suppose to take a left turn onto a back street to get to the hotel but it crosses a large train depot. There were 2 trains, I kept waiting for 15 or so minutes when it started to rain. I saw an empty store front to take shelter under and try to find a new route around. Stay on main road, right on Arnold, left on Aztec, left on 603 over tracks, left on Maloney. There ya go, now you know too.
Photos from today:
I was so happy to get to the hotel early, and then realized we had a time zone change! Ha! Figures. I’ll get better sleep tonight. Tomorrow is a slightly shorter day of 66 miles.
See above^
Random note for women with rings who want to travel with them.. I’ve done this since guiding in Europe in ‘15 and it still proves to be the best way for me. I got a mini locking carabiner from REI that I lock to my sports bra strap. I turn the rings towards my heart and they stay put all day. I wrapped the metal with electrical tape to try to minize metals touching. I don’t wear them riding, and I don’t want to lose them while on trip. Maybe it will help someone.
I’ve been so excited to see your posts each day and was going to ask about the tires and flats. How many extra tubes do you carry on a daily basis and did you have to pack all of the tubes you would need or can you purchase along the way? I have so many logistical questions.
I love your elevation strips. They give a great visual to how incredibly tough your rides are.
I hope you get some good rest tonight.