Tom, I'm glad you're feeling better! Greg was up riding this past weekend and told me that you had been under the weather lately. I hope you continue to progress with your health!

Last Week we got rained out and as I'm posting this message it is raining again.  Going to try again anyway.  Sherman Branch @ 6.  Rolling out (weather permitting ) @ 6:15.
Hope will out

I live pretty close to it. It was slick in several spots yesterday and we got a fair amount of rain overnight. Can't believe it's open today. No idea how the lake loop is. I skipped it yesterday. No plans to ride it today. Have a good ride.

Going to go ahead and call this one off.  Maybe the monsoon season will pass and we can get back out there next week.  Goodnight Ladies and Gents

Doc00t wrote on 06/20/17 at 7:52pm:


Good call. Not sure on the rest of CLT but it's been raining pretty steady here for about the last hour

Third times a charm.  Trying Sherman 1 more time.  If it rains again I am picking a new trail next week regardless.  Meeting @ 6 rolling out 6:15. 

I think I can join everyone for once.  I'll be on my Santa Cruz Tallboy.  See you then.

Sherman is beginner friendly, yes.  There are a couple of areas that a beginner may want to walk around but nothing so difficult you can't try if so inclined.

DamnYankee wrote on 06/27/17 at 12:21pm:


When I rode Sherman as a beginner, it kicked my ass; not necessarily from a technical riding perspective, but my fitness.  I've since learned to fuel for my rides, carry speed on the 'downs' to assist the 'ups', picking the right lines, etc.  No real magic here, just a bunch of time on my bike.

If the social is broken up into groups, beginners might want to stick to the 'main' trail, which is in the 5 mile range, and has bailout options as it crosses the fire road a few times.  I have a rather dreadful memory from July of last year where I managed 3.6 miles of the main trail, where passerby's would have seen me practically lying next to my bike about 2 miles in.

I don't want to deter anyone from going to Sherman if you're a beginner (I've seen kids < 10 years old there), but only that you should ride your own pace.  On a social ride, that might be awkward if you feel like everyone is waiting on you.

Steve

sCvHeaVens wrote on 06/27/17 at 5:04pm:



I've not been on a social ride (MTB, or road) where I didn't feel welcome, and certainly never heard anything but positive encouragement from other riders.  It's difficult to predict an individuals confidence/experience level without some sort of personal interaction, so for the purposes of this forum, I think the statement is still relevant.  If you're self-conscious/insecure about your riding ability/fitness/gear, it can be intimidating to be lumped in with a bunch of "pros".

The ride was good, thanks for letting me tag along with everyone.  You damn single-speeders make me realize how bad of shape I'm in .  But seriously, If anyone of any ability is interested in joining please do.  Last night was the first chance I had to join the Tuesday group and it was totally enjoyable.  The pace is dictated by those in the group and anyone is welcomed.  Hope I can join you all for more in the future!