Packing up at the Denver airport
Registration was Saturday and camping commenced as well.
You have to slightly disassemble a bike to put it in a shipping box. Here's Lucian testing out his ride after reattaching the wheels, seat and handlebars.
Attaching his number. I think it says #1282.
Camp the first night
Lucian said it was cold and loud overnight and he didn't get much sleep. Unfortunately, day 1 of riding is one of the toughest. It's Crested Butte to Buena Vista, 76 miles through Cottonwood Pass – 12,126 ft. He said his tent was covered in frost in the morning. Here is his tent broken down and remnants of the coffee and oatmeal he packed rather than pay for breakfast.
Lucian's bike was locked to his buddy's, who happened to stay in a hotel the fist night. Here's Lucian waiting for Chris to arrive so they can unlock and get going.
Day 1 consists of a 14 mile stretch of gravel road. Sounds pretty difficult on a road bike, but Lucian didn't report any issues. Cottonwood Pass is one of the snowy peaks behind the guys in this shot. They rode to those peaks and, then up and over.
I read online that this is the most snow Cottonwood Pass has seen along the road for early June. It is only open to vehicles in the summer.
I spoke to Lucian tonight and he said today's ride was the hardest he's ever done. He was lucky enough to meet up with his mom (Nana Kathleen as some readers may know her:) at a cabin next to some hot springs. He was treated to a nice soak and dinner and decided to stay there overnight. He figured he'd sleep better next to a rushing river rather than 2,000 tents. I hope it works, tomorrow is a big day as well!
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