A meeting of higher minds at the Econolodge Think Tank culminated in a deservedly deft course of action. It was then, with full confidence, that we left our swank accommodations for Sandia Foothills.

What a good time! We had a great ride on the fun trails shared with pleasant hikers and generally very focused bikers, all the while panting more than we’d expected. It turns out the park was at about 7000′, a long way from home.

Post ride, in the parking lot, we met a road biker who had moved from Florida and was contemplating getting a mountain bike. He suggested a 10-12 mile mtb ride is equivalent to 20 on a road bike. Frankly I think my head would fall off if I had to ride 20 miles on my road bike. He also burst out that his new bike would likely be a carbon Transition Patrol, clocking in at $6000. What of the above summary of our conversation is actually true? See below for the answer.

We are en route to Taos, which is, in general, our semi short term destination. Given there wasn’t any obvious camping an hour or so outside of Albuquerque we followed a recommendation from Mme SB to visit Madrid, NM.

Happily we found a barato room in town same day and here we are. The main street is a short distance from where we’re staying and off we went to check out local culture. The shops had beautiful art and we ended up with a new shirt each. It is a sweet place and a pleasure in which to sit at a cafe table and enjoy.

Yes! For the first time we are staying in a rented room. Like a bed and [self made] breakfast. The combo of quite nice, low cost, compelling town and pretty close quality biking means we’ve already rebooked for Sunday.

Interesting roadside sign.

We are headed in the direction of at least two bike parks: Pajarito and Angel Fire. Alas the first doesn’t open until the 19th; the latter on the 10th. Hopefully we’ll still be around to enjoy! I am also wondering what this means for upcoming Colorado riding. Santa Fe looks awesome; plenty of shuttle options have me salivating.

Yikes! Not much happening here anymore.

Answer to what was true from my description of our parking lot encounter: I FABRICATED NOTHING. ALL FACT.