This is the time of year where many of us transition from Eastside riding to Westside riding…
I am always hesitant to make that transition. I actually like the Eastside better. The rocks at Horse Ridge, the views from Smith Rock, the elevation difference at Cline and Horse Ridge make for fun, challenging riding. I like our west side trails but I am simply not as engaged when I ride there. I never go to Horse Ridge knowing I’m going to clear all of the obstacles. On the Westside I rarely dab and I don’t really anticipate the few rock gardens we have.
I really enjoy getting on my bike at home and doing a ride w/o a car.
On the other hand, I get tired of the drive, I really enjoy getting on my bike at home and doing a ride w/o a car. I enjoy watching the snow melt and seeing how high I can get week to week. I also enjoy cutting fallen trees with my Silkie (#ad) saw, though I think there will be a lot of blowdown this year. I love the pine forest, so much so when I am out at Horse Ridge I count the pine trees.
So it might be time for the Transition. Tomorrow I will start.
This article was contributed by Don Leet. Don is one of the original Bend mountain bikers and the former owner of Sunnyside Sports. He still works three days a week at Sunnyside. His career highlights are a Bronze and Silver Medal at the 1988 NORBA World Championships in Mammoth Lakes Ca, and a Gold medal at the 2011 USA Cycling National Championships in Sun Valley. He is now retired from racing but continues to ride and love Mountain Biking.
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