We completed a 65 mile ride today, mostly along scenic Highway 14 to Santa Fe. It was a good ride with great scenery and two climbs over 7000 ft. elevations.
We left Albuquerque traveling along Central Avenue, which is the main thoroughfare of the city and not known as a cycle friendly route. Within the first hour, we were given an obscene hand sign by some guy on a motorized scooter for physically disabled and asked by some kid who obviously was very concerned for our well-being if we were “bleeping stupid” for cycling down their main street during rush hour. We still don’t know why the guy on the scooter was upset with us, we were just trying to be friendly with him at a stop light. The kid who cursed us out obviously just wanted to make sure we were cycling safely. Dan and I thanked him for his thoughtfulness.
We ate lunch on Highway 14 in Madrid, which appears to be an old mining town. Leaving Madrid, we felt pretty comfortable about our situation as it was still early and we only had a 20 miles left to reach our hotel in Santa Fe. Of course, when the winds started gusting to 30 mph across our path, the last 20 miles turned into another challenge as we often struggled just to keep our bikes upright.
I haven’t had a chance to see much of Santa Fe. I believe we will get a good look on the way out tomorrow, similar to our exit of Albuquerque today.
Our plan is to travel to Las Vegas, New Mexico tomorrow and then take a rest day on Friday. At this point, the rest day is a great incentive for us both. We are looking forward to some time to heal our ailments, which seem to be accumulating daily.
Thanks to all of you that have commented on this blog. Although I don’t answer each of you individually, you have no idea how much both Dan and I appreciate getting feedback. It makes our day.
My Favorite View from Today
tomballay 
Guys – I am so sorry to hear you got treated badly on your way out of town. Sadly, the drivers here are like drivers many places – very intolerant of anyone who uses “their” roads at less-than-posted speeds. I hope you have some good meet-ups (is that really a word?) with a few drivers along the way – we have them here in NM, along with the others.
I was glad to hear that you stopped in Madrid. I hope you found the soda fountain – the whole town is a mining town turned hippy hangout turned art colony and has some cool shops and galleries, although I know right now that’s not on your list of “must make time for” activities! Take care and tailwinds to you…
Vicki
Can’t wait to hear what Las Vegas, New Mexico is like!! You’re giving us all a great geography lesson!!! You’re not missing a thing in Toledo, Ohio . . . very cold and damp! We’re keeping Beth busy . . . we have two “catering” jobs this weekend, a bridal shower and “grief grub”! Hope you enjoy a wonderful day of rest . . . we are all so proud of you!!!
Tom,
Beth gave me the blog address yesterday – fascinating to read about your journey. Godspeed, good weather, and good health to you and Dan for the rest of the trip.
All my best,
Chris
Tom–your Blog is an incredible read every day. Is the worst over as far as altitude?
(Jane–really sorry to hear about the weather in Toledo)
Thomas, you and Dan may enjoy feedback from us but mostly I’m just jealous as I can be;-)
Mr. Ballay,
My favorite sign of all time is that of the truck downgrade! Hope you all are well, im getting into my routine rides out here in Utah. Keep it up!
Uncle T,
Having a blast reading your blog! Had to comment on this one, as we all know you’re not “bleeping stupid,” but you are effing goofy! Sorry, I had to. 🙂 Miss you, love you, and can’t wait to hear about your adventure!
Godspeed,
Sarah Bear