Late start because it was pretty chilly this morning when we woke up. On top of that the time zone changed to Mountain DST so we lost an hour. We entered New Mexico and I have to say the shoulder and highway were really smooth. Traffic was light so it was an enjoyable ride to Lordsburg. We decided to park it here since tomorrow is 45 miles to Silver City and a decent climb. We will be crossing the Continental Divide really soon with a significant climb.
While riding today in the wide open with expansive views everywhere I had time to think about breaking the rides down to the Perfect Trifecta. 1. Smooth asphalt with good shoulder (including rumble strips) 2. Temperature (ideal is in the 60’s). 3. Wind mostly at your back. If all 3 happen that’s a damn good ride. Today we had 2 out of 3. Wind was headwind but not terrible. Curt thinks elevation should be considered as well. What is the word for 4-fecta?
Speaking of riding but not hiding the Covid-19 is closing in all around us. We feel a bit like outsiders looking in because we don’t have to experience work changes, school closures, shop hoarding or even being around more than 6 people. However, the restaurants are now going to run 50% less, State Parks are closing. Not sure how our camping will be affected. It’s going to get interesting. We just learned a school teacher in the town of Pima (home of the Taylor Freeze) where we stopped for ice cream has Covid-19. She taught elementary school. Hoping the high school girls who served us ice cream weren’t exposed! That’s why I said “we can ride, but we can’t hide”
cinnicrew 
Interesting about the difference in road quality in the road in a new state. I drive between NV M CA so often so I see it concrete to asphalt or no shoulder vs good shoulder.
Do the mats bite? It reminded me of the mosquitos theat were so abundant at that lunch stop along the Wise River
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Good thing you refrained from hugging and shaking hands with the ice cream girls! Hopefully all the fresh air and exercise will attribute to some immunity from the dreaded virus. Having encountered the first gnat attack are you expecting more insect swarms?The ice cream looks like it came from an old fashioned soda fountain with the real glass dishes/like a time warp! Yum!Peggy
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“You can ride but you can’t hide.” I think the Duke said the same thing about cattle rustlers.
Quiet as an empty church around here. Weird times!
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You guys look mighty happy with those ice cream sundaes! I’m envious. I would love to be with you. Chuck
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