Day 2: Harlan to Jefferson

Miles: 83 (longest day this year)
Feet of Climb: 5,239 (most this year)
High Temperature: 84 Degrees
Sky Conditions: Cloudy early and late with sun in between

We knew day 2 was going to be tough. The route profile was warning us that this day had the most climb on this year's route. It was right. The profile also indicated that this was the longest day on this year's route. Check. What could make this day any worse? Knowing that when you get to the overnight town you have to stay in a tent. That's right, this day was also the only day that we had to camp. Luckily the temperature and weather cooperated, for the most part anyway.

The food along the route is one of my favorite things. When you spend all day biking, you feel like you can pretty much eat anything you want and not worry too much about how bad it is for you. The food vendors along the way help a great deal in accomplishing the task. There is Mr. Pork Chop, Tender Tom's Turkey, Peanut Butter Jam, Tropical Sno, The Smoothie Guys, The Farm Boys, Pastafari, Mrs. Raphael's and on, and on, and on.

Upon arrival at Jefferson the authorities were warning everyone about some impending weather. A storm did roll through, but we were lucky to be on the very edge. They were preparing us for 3/4 inch hail and 60+ mph winds, but we only got a brief downpour and then everything was all clear.

Some of us found a great meal at the 1st United Methodist Church. $7.00 bought a plate absolutely piled high with mashed potatoes, green beans, and the best chicken and noodle dinner, with home-made noodles, that I've ever had! All that was topped off with a great slice of rhubarb pie. Did I mention that RAGBRAI food is great?

After that big meal, and the long day of biking, I was pretty tuckered out. I went down early so I could have plenty of time to dream about the next day's route, which is one of the flattest and shortest days.....

Kyle.