LAPD Cycling Ride 🚔🚴♂️ : PCH from Santa Monica - Paradise Cove 🔂
Join us for an epic coastal adventure as we kick off the day in Santa Monica and ride to the stunning Paradise Cove in Malibu along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH / HWY 1). Experience the beauty of the California coastline as we cruise past iconic beaches, with breathtaking ocean views every step of the way. The ride through Malibu’s scenic routes is a favorite among cyclists, offering a smooth and rewarding experience before we turn back for the return leg to Santa Monica. Route Highlights: Starting Point: Santa Monica Scenic Ride along PCH / HWY 1 Relaxing Stop at Paradise Cove, Malibu Return to Santa Monica for a Well-Earned Finish Whether you’re an avid cyclist or simply love exploring California’s coastal gems, this video captures the beauty and excitement of a classic PCH ride.
Discover the Beauty of Palmdale: A 7.7-Mile Cycling Adventure Along the California Aqueduct
If you’re searching for a unique cycling experience that blends serene water views with the stark beauty of the desert, then look no further. Our 7.7-mile out-and-back route along the California Aqueduct in Palmdale, CA, offers cyclists an opportunity to explore one of California’s essential water lifelines while soaking in the picturesque desert landscape.
The Route: What to Expect
This ride starts at the Aqueduct’s access point, a perfect launch pad for an easy-to-moderate ride. From here, you’ll embark on a 3.85-mile stretch each way, totaling 7.7 miles. The route is predominantly flat, making it accessible for cyclists of varying skill levels. It’s an ideal choice for a quick afternoon ride or a laid-back weekend adventure.
Scenic Highlights
As you pedal along the aqueduct, you’ll be treated to stunning, unobstructed views of the desert. The contrast between the tranquil blue water and the surrounding arid landscape is truly mesmerizing. Early mornings or late afternoons are especially magical, as the sun casts a golden glow over the water, creating a striking reflection that’s perfect for photography enthusiasts.
A Glimpse into California’s Water Supply
The California Aqueduct is more than just a pretty backdrop; it’s a crucial part of the state’s water distribution system, channeling water from the Sierra Nevada mountains down to Southern California. Riding along this aqueduct gives you a rare, up-close look at the infrastructure that helps sustain millions of Californians, making this ride both educational and visually rewarding.
Who Is This Ride For?
Whether you’re a local cyclist looking to explore new territory or a visitor eager to experience the unique landscapes of Palmdale, this route offers something for everyone. It’s a great option for solo riders seeking some quiet time, couples on a leisurely ride, or even families with older kids who can handle the distance.
Tips for the Ride
• Bring Plenty of Water: Even though you’re cycling alongside an aqueduct, the desert heat can be intense, especially in the summer months.
• Sun Protection: The route offers little shade, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves.
• Timing: To avoid the midday heat, consider starting your ride early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Final Thoughts
Cycling the California Aqueduct in Palmdale is more than just a ride—it’s an experience. The combination of desert scenery, peaceful water views, and the opportunity to learn about California’s vital water resources makes this a must-do for any cycling enthusiast. So, grab your bike, and let’s hit the trail!
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LAPD Cycling Team's Scenic Ride: Elysian Park to Griffith Park for an Indoor Trainer Ride
Join the LAPD Cycling Team on an epic virtual ride from Elysian Park to the iconic Griffith Park! 🚴♂️💨 Experience the thrill of riding through some of Los Angeles' most scenic routes, all from the comfort of your indoor trainer.
Starting at the historic LAPD Police Academy, we’ll climb through the lush landscapes of Elysian Park, pass by the LA River, and make our way to the breathtaking views of Griffith Park. You'll feel like you're right there with the team, tackling those hills and soaking in the city skyline. Whether you're looking to boost your endurance, enjoy a scenic ride, or simply unwind after a long day, this video has got you covered.
Gear up, hit play, and let's ride through the heart of LA together! 🚴♀️🏞️
Hollywood Racks Destination 4
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The Hollywood Racks Destination 4 is a robust and versatile bike rack designed to securely transport up to four bicycles. With its sturdy construction and user-friendly features, this rack is ideal for families or groups of cyclists. The Destination 4 offers a lightweight yet durable frame, easy-to-use adjustable wheel holders, and padded frame holders that keep bikes stable and protected during transport. It fits most vehicle types, and its compact design ensures easy storage when not in use. The rack also includes a tilt feature for convenient trunk access, making it a practical choice for any cycling adventure.
Lumos Ultra E-Bike Smart Helmet $10 OFF!
Use Code calidomestique at Checkout to Save $10 or
The Lumos Ultra E-Bike Smart Helmet is a well-regarded option for e-bike riders or any riders seeking enhanced visibility and safety. It integrates features such as front and rear LED lights, turn signals, and optional automatic brake lights, all controlled via a wireless remote or an app. The helmet offers a comfortable fit with an adjustable retention system and is available in both standard and MIPS versions, the latter providing additional protection against rotational impacts.
One key highlight is the helmet’s visibility features, which include 30 white LEDs in the front and 64 red LEDs in the rear. However, the helmet’s front light isn’t powerful enough to replace traditional bike lights, especially in low-light conditions. The automatic brake light feature is particularly useful for signaling stops to other road users.
The Lumos Ultra is relatively lightweight for a smart helmet, weighing around 490g for the standard version and 530g for the MIPS version. It charges via a USB cable and offers a battery life of 2 to 10 hours depending on usage. While some users have noted that the helmet’s lights aren’t very effective in bright sunlight, they do significantly enhance nighttime visibility.
Overall, the Lumos Ultra E-Bike Smart Helmet is praised for its safety features and design, making it a good choice for urban commuting and evening rides. It’s available in multiple colors and sizes, with prices starting around $199.95 for the standard model and $229.95 for the MIPS model
"Support Small Businesses: The Heart of Our Cycling Community"
Never forget the small businesses that form the backbone of our industry. While bicycle sales surged during the pandemic, large brands are now pressuring local bike shops (LBS) to maintain substantial stock on showroom floors. This requirement is overwhelming many small businesses.
I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with independent shops and partnering with innovative startups. One standout experience has been with the company Stashers, whose black bar bag has become a favorite of mine. Their exceptional customer service and high-quality products set them apart.
Let’s continue to support small businesses and help them thrive. Check out Stashers and other independent companies to keep our cycling community vibrant and diverse.
Feel free to comment your favorite little brand in the comments and keep them going.
https://getstashers.com
The Early Bird's Guide to Hiking Devil's Bridge
There’s something undeniably magical about greeting the day before the sun peeks over the horizon, and there’s no better place to experience this than Devil’s Bridge in Sedona, Arizona. Hiking Devil’s Bridge before 7am not only allows you to beat the crowds but also grants you the gift of witnessing the landscape bathed in the soft, golden hues of dawn. Here's why and how you should embark on this early morning adventure.
Why Hike Early?
- Beat the Heat: Arizona's daytime temperatures can soar, especially in the summer. Starting early means you’ll be hiking in the cool, refreshing morning air.
- Solitude and Serenity: Devil’s Bridge is a popular spot, and it can get crowded later in the day. Hiking early gives you a chance to enjoy the trail and the views in peaceful solitude.
- Breathtaking Views: There’s nothing quite like watching the first light of day illuminate the stunning red rock formations of Sedona. The early morning light casts a golden glow, making the landscape even more picturesque.
Preparing for Your Early Morning Hike
- Plan Ahead: Familiarize yourself with the trail and its conditions. The Devil’s Bridge Trail is about 4.2 miles round trip if you start from the Mescal Trailhead, with a moderate ascent.
- Gear Up: Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, snacks, a headlamp or flashlight for the pre-dawn start, and a camera to capture the views.
- Check the Weather: Early mornings can be cooler, so dress in layers that you can shed as the day warms up.
The Hike
Step 1: The Early Start
Set your alarm for an early start, ideally around 5am. This gives you enough time to prepare, drive to the trailhead, and start your hike in the cool, pre-dawn darkness. Use your flashlight or headlamp to navigate the initial part of the trail.
Step 2: The Ascent
The trail starts relatively flat but becomes steeper as you near the bridge. The climb can be a bit challenging, especially in the dark, so take your time and watch your step. As you ascend, keep an eye out for the changing colors in the sky as dawn approaches.
Step 3: Reaching the Bridge
As you reach Devil’s Bridge, the sun will likely just be rising. The sight of the bridge illuminated by the first light of day is truly awe-inspiring. Take a moment to catch your breath, enjoy the view, and snap some photos. The bridge itself is quite wide and safe to walk across, but exercise caution and be mindful of your footing.
Step 4: Enjoy the View
From the bridge, you’ll have panoramic views of the surrounding red rock formations and the valley below. The early morning light creates a stunning contrast of shadows and highlights, making this a perfect time for photography. Take in the peacefulness of the moment, and appreciate the beauty of nature waking up around you.
The Descent
After spending some time on the bridge, begin your descent back to the trailhead. By now, the sun will be higher in the sky, casting a different but equally beautiful light on the landscape. The trail is less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a quiet walk back.
Wrapping Up
Hiking Devil’s Bridge before 7am is an experience like no other. The combination of cool temperatures, serene solitude, and breathtaking views makes it well worth the early wake-up call. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply someone who appreciates nature’s beauty, this early morning adventure is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories and stunning photos.
So, set your alarm, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to experience Devil’s Bridge in all its dawn-lit glory. Happy hiking!
360 Cycling Down Spunky Canyon in LA County.
To fully immerse yourself in my 360 Canyon Descent, please watch this video in the Official YouTube App. Shot on the new Insta360 X4.
The True Three-Foot Car Door Zone: Cyclists Beware
In the bustling streets where cyclists and motorists share the road, a silent danger lurks in the form of the car door zone – a hazardous area that demands attention and caution from both drivers and cyclists alike.
Picture this: You're cruising down the bike lane, the wind in your hair, when suddenly a parked car door swings open, seemingly out of nowhere. It's a scenario every cyclist dreads – and for good reason. The space between parked cars and moving traffic, often referred to as the car door zone, is a perilous stretch of road where a moment's distraction can lead to catastrophic consequences.
But here's the kicker: the commonly cited three-foot buffer between cyclists and parked cars may not always suffice. In reality, the true car door zone extends beyond those three feet, encompassing a zone of unpredictability where a door can swing open unexpectedly, posing a grave risk to passing cyclists.
For cyclists, navigating the car door zone requires a blend of vigilance and defensive riding techniques. It means scanning parked cars for signs of movement, riding further away from parked cars whenever possible, and anticipating potential hazards well in advance. It's a constant balancing act between speed and safety, where a split-second decision can mean the difference between a close call and a collision.
But the onus doesn't solely rest on cyclists. Drivers, too, play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of vulnerable road users. Simple actions like checking mirrors before opening doors, using designated loading zones whenever feasible, and practicing mindfulness when parking can go a long way in preventing accidents and fostering a culture of mutual respect on the road.
In the fight to mitigate the risks associated with the car door zone, education is key. Both cyclists and motorists must familiarize themselves with the dangers posed by opened car doors and work together to minimize the likelihood of accidents. Whether through public awareness campaigns, enhanced infrastructure design, or legislative measures, it's imperative that steps are taken to protect the most vulnerable users of our roadways.
So, the next time you hit the streets on two wheels or four, remember the true three-foot car door zone – and the potential dangers that lie within. By staying vigilant, practicing mutual respect, and advocating for safer streets, we can work towards a future where cyclists and motorists coexist harmoniously, free from the shadows of the car door zone.
“Pedal Power: Advocating for Adventure on Two Feet and Two Wheels!”
Welcome, fellow adventurers, to the exhilarating world of bicycle and pedestrian advocacy! Strap on your helmets, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to embark on a journey where every step and pedal stroke counts towards building safer, greener, and more vibrant communities.
Picture this: a bustling cityscape transformed into a playground of bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly streets, and vibrant public spaces. That’s the vision driving bicycle and pedestrian advocacy, where every push of the pedal and every stride forward brings us closer to a healthier, happier, and more connected world.
But what exactly is bicycle and pedestrian advocacy, you ask? It’s not just about pushing pedals and crossing streets—it’s a movement fueled by passion, powered by people, and propelled by the belief that everyone deserves safe and enjoyable streets to walk and bike on.
Imagine cruising down a tree-lined bike path, the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, knowing that your advocacy efforts helped pave the way for safer cycling infrastructure. Or strolling through a vibrant neighborhood, where crosswalks are painted like works of art and pedestrians are given the right of way, all thanks to the tireless advocacy of passionate individuals like yourself.
But bicycle and pedestrian advocacy is about more than just infrastructure—it’s about building a culture of active transportation, where walking and biking are not just modes of getting from point A to point B, but opportunities for adventure, exploration, and connection.
Joining the bicycle and pedestrian advocacy movement means becoming part of a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to making our streets safer, our air cleaner, and our communities more vibrant. It means organizing bike rides and walking tours to raise awareness, lobbying local governments for better infrastructure, and educating the public about the benefits of active transportation.
So whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a dedicated walker, or just someone who wants to make a difference in your community, there’s a place for you in the exciting world of bicycle and pedestrian advocacy. Together, let’s pedal, stride, and advocate our way towards a brighter, greener, and more enjoyable future for all!
Road Cycling vs. Gravel Cycling: Exploring the Paths to Adventure
Cycling is a diverse and exhilarating activity enjoyed by millions worldwide. While road cycling has long been a staple, gravel cycling has surged in popularity in recent years, offering a new dimension of exploration and adventure. In this blog, we'll delve into the distinct characteristics and benefits of road cycling and gravel cycling, helping you decide which path best suits your preferences and goals.
Road Cycling: The Classic Pursuit
1. Speed and Efficiency: Smooth, paved roads offer optimal conditions for speed and efficiency, making road cycling ideal for those seeking a fast-paced workout or competitive racing.
2. Accessibility: With well-maintained roads spanning urban, suburban, and rural landscapes, road cycling is easily accessible to cyclists of all levels and abilities.
3. Group Riding: The road cycling community is vibrant, with group rides and organized events providing opportunities for camaraderie, socializing, and learning from fellow cyclists.
4. Performance-focused Gear: Road bikes are engineered for speed and aerodynamics, featuring lightweight frames, narrow tires, and drop handlebars optimized for efficient riding positions.
Gravel Cycling: The Road Less Traveled
1. Adventure and Exploration: Gravel cycling opens up a world of untamed terrain, from country backroads to remote wilderness trails, offering a sense of adventure and exploration unmatched by paved roads.
2. Versatility: Gravel bikes are designed to handle a variety of surfaces, including gravel, dirt, and rough terrain, providing the flexibility to venture off the beaten path and discover new routes.
3. Connection with Nature: Riding through scenic landscapes and natural surroundings, gravel cycling allows cyclists to immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
4. Relaxed Pace and Mindset: Unlike the intensity of road racing, gravel cycling often emphasizes a more relaxed pace and mindset, encouraging cyclists to savor the journey and embrace the challenges of the terrain.
Benefits of Both:
1. Physical Fitness: Whether on road or gravel, cycling offers numerous health benefits, including cardiovascular conditioning, muscle strengthening, and stress reduction.
2. Mental Well-being: Cycling provides a sense of freedom, stress relief, and mental clarity, promoting overall well-being and mental health.
3. Community and Camaraderie: Both road and gravel cycling communities are supportive and inclusive, fostering friendships, mentorship, and a shared passion for two-wheeled adventure.
Whether you're drawn to the speed and efficiency of road cycling or the adventure and exploration of gravel cycling, both paths offer unique benefits and experiences. Ultimately, the choice between road and gravel cycling depends on your personal preferences, goals, and appetite for adventure. Whichever path you choose, the journey promises to be filled with exhilarating rides, scenic vistas, and unforgettable memories. So saddle up, embrace the open road or the road less traveled, and let the adventure begin!
The True Cost Difference: Commuting by Bike vs. Driving
Commuting is a daily ritual for millions of people worldwide, and the choice between biking and driving can significantly impact both your wallet and the environment. Let's dive into the cost difference between commuting by bike and driving a car, specifically over a distance of 6 miles, factoring in expenses like gas, insurance, and maintenance.
Biking has long been hailed as a cost-effective and eco-friendly mode of transportation. While the initial investment in a bike and accessories might seem daunting, the long-term savings are substantial. A quality commuter bike can range from $300 to $1,000, with additional expenses for gear like helmets, lights, and maintenance tools. However, these costs pale in comparison to the expenses associated with owning and operating a car.
Driving a car entails various recurring costs, starting with the purchase price or monthly payments. Beyond that, drivers must factor in insurance premiums, which can vary widely based on factors like age, driving history, and location. For a daily commute of 6 miles, the cost of gasoline is relatively low but can still add up over time. Additionally, routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake replacements further contribute to the overall expense of car ownership.
Let's crunch the numbers. Assuming an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $5 per gallon, a 6-mile round trip would cost approximately $1.20 in gas each day. Annually, this amounts to around $300. When factoring in insurance premiums, maintenance, and depreciation, the total cost of driving can easily exceed $3,000 per year.
On the other hand, biking requires minimal ongoing expenses. Aside from occasional maintenance like tire replacements and tune-ups, the primary costs are negligible. Even factoring in the occasional need for bike repairs or upgrades, the annual expense rarely exceeds $200.
In conclusion, the cost difference between commuting by bike and driving becomes increasingly evident over time. While biking necessitates a modest upfront investment, its long-term financial and environmental benefits far outweigh those of driving. So, the next time you contemplate your commute, consider strapping on a helmet and pedaling toward a more cost-effective and sustainable future.
Navigating the Road: Safety Considerations for Vehicles, Pedestrians, and Cyclists
In the bustling realm of transportation, harmony between vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists is paramount to ensure safety for all road users. Each group brings its own set of challenges and responsibilities, but with awareness and mutual respect, accidents can be minimized, and journeys made smoother. Let’s delve into the distinctive safety aspects associated with each:
Vehicles:
Automobiles, with their size and speed, hold a significant responsibility on the road. Vehicle safety encompasses a multitude of factors, from adherence to traffic laws to the maintenance of the vehicle itself. Key considerations for drivers include:
- Following Traffic Regulations: Obeying speed limits, traffic signals, and road signs is essential. Failure to do so not only endangers oneself but also poses a threat to pedestrians and cyclists.
- Maintaining Awareness: Vigilance behind the wheel is crucial. Drivers must remain attentive to their surroundings, including pedestrians crossing streets and cyclists sharing lanes.
- Avoiding Distractions: Distracted driving, whether due to smartphone use, eating, or other activities, significantly increases the risk of accidents. Keeping focus solely on the road is paramount.
- Giving Space: Respecting the designated spaces for pedestrians and cyclists is essential. Providing ample room when passing cyclists and yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks demonstrates consideration for others’ safety.
Pedestrians:
Pedestrians are the most vulnerable road users, lacking the protection afforded by vehicles. To ensure their safety, pedestrians should be mindful of their surroundings and adhere to pedestrian-specific safety measures:
- Using Designated Crosswalks: Crossing streets at designated crosswalks or intersections significantly reduces the risk of accidents. Making oneself visible to drivers is crucial, especially in low-light conditions.
- Avoiding Distractions: Just as with drivers, pedestrians should refrain from distractions such as texting or listening to loud music while walking. Maintaining awareness of traffic is vital for crossing safely.
- Making Eye Contact: When crossing in front of vehicles, making eye contact with drivers can confirm acknowledgment and reduce the likelihood of miscommunication.
- Walking Against Traffic: When sidewalks are unavailable, walking against the flow of traffic allows pedestrians to see oncoming vehicles and react accordingly.
Cyclists:
Cyclists occupy a unique position on the road, often sharing lanes with vehicles while also enjoying the flexibility of pedestrian pathways. To ensure their safety and that of others, cyclists should observe the following guidelines:
- Wearing Protective Gear: Helmets and reflective clothing increase visibility and provide crucial protection in the event of a collision.
- Obeying Traffic Laws: Cyclists are subject to the same traffic laws as motorists. This includes stopping at red lights, yielding to pedestrians, and signaling turns.
- Riding Defensively: Anticipating potential hazards and riding defensively can help cyclists avoid accidents. This includes maintaining a safe distance from parked cars to avoid collisions with opening doors.
- Communicating Intentions: Using hand signals to indicate turns or changes in direction alerts drivers and pedestrians to the cyclist’s intentions, promoting smoother interactions on the road.
By fostering a culture of mutual respect and awareness among all road users, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Whether behind the wheel, on foot, or cycling, prioritizing safety benefits not only individuals but the entire community. Together, let’s navigate the road with caution and consideration.
Striking a Balance: Prioritizing Bike Lanes vs. Paths in Desperate Need of Attention
Bike lanes have gained traction as a crucial component of urban planning, offering cyclists dedicated space on roadways, enhancing safety, and promoting active lifestyles. By investing in bike lanes, cities can encourage more people to cycle, thereby reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and improving public health. Moreover, bike lanes contribute to a more inclusive urban environment, accommodating individuals who rely on cycling as their primary mode of transportation.
However, the implementation of bike lanes requires significant financial investment and careful planning, which may divert resources from other pressing infrastructure needs. Additionally, the effectiveness of bike lanes depends on factors such as connectivity, accessibility, and integration with existing transportation networks. In some cases, prioritizing bike lanes in areas with low cycling demand may yield limited benefits, prompting a reevaluation of resource allocation.
On the other hand, neglected paths represent an overlooked aspect of urban infrastructure, often in dire need of revitalization. These paths, whether pedestrian walkways, greenways, or recreational trails, play a crucial role in connecting communities, providing safe routes for pedestrians, and preserving natural landscapes. Neglected paths are often characterized by deteriorating surfaces, inadequate lighting, and lack of amenities, posing safety hazards and hindering accessibility.
Reviving neglected paths can breathe new life into communities, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among residents. By refurbishing these paths, cities can promote active transportation, encourage outdoor recreation, and enhance the overall quality of life. Furthermore, investing in neglected paths aligns with principles of equitable urban development, ensuring that underserved neighborhoods receive the attention they deserve.
Finding the right balance between investing in bike lanes and revitalizing neglected paths requires a nuanced approach that considers various factors, including community needs, transportation priorities, and available resources. Rather than viewing these initiatives as competing interests, cities can adopt a holistic approach that integrates both elements into a comprehensive urban infrastructure strategy.
One approach is to prioritize investments based on a thorough assessment of community needs and existing infrastructure deficiencies. By conducting comprehensive audits and soliciting input from residents, city planners can identify areas where the implementation of bike lanes would have the greatest impact and where neglected paths require urgent attention.
Additionally, cities can explore innovative funding mechanisms, such as public-private partnerships and grant opportunities, to finance infrastructure projects efficiently.
Collaborating with local businesses, advocacy groups, and nonprofit organizations can leverage additional resources and expertise to support infrastructure initiatives.
Ultimately, the decision to prioritize bike lanes or neglected paths should be guided by a commitment to creating vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive communities. By striking a balance between these two objectives, cities can enhance mobility, promote health and well-being, and create environments where people can thrive.
Whether it's building bike lanes to accommodate cyclists or revitalizing neglected paths to reconnect communities, investing in urban infrastructure is an investment in the future of our cities.
Vegas was truly "The Devil in Disguise"
We headed out to a Volleyball tournament in Vegas last weekend so I thought I'd take my bike as we were staying near Red Rocks. Upon arrival we played a few games and then it was too dark to ride. We woke up Saturday morning to a crazy windstorm. There were chairs in the pool, the rain was coming down pretty hard, and it even hailed on our way to lunch.
Sunday morning was dry, but still super windy. I was not going to take my bike and not give her some love. I decided to head out West towards Red Rocks. It was slightly uphill and with the headwind I was only pushing 5-8 mph. It took me 45 minutes to get there which should have taken less than 30. I knew I would run out of time of I did the Red Rock Loop so I snapped a few pics, and headed back.
The tailwind was my friend and actually had me going way too fast. With the battle of the head and tail wind, my ride pretty much equalled out to a normal average speed for me. I'm glad I got up early and went for a rip.