Day one

So day one complete and here are the stats

Distance:	149.42 km
Time:	7:30:57
Avg Speed:	19.9 km/h
Elevation Gain:	2,806 m
Calories:	7,020 C
Avg Temperature:	24.5 °C

The day began with much trepidation (and a lost Husky but thats another story). An early start and a very chilled roll down to Jim's in wonderful morning sunshine. There probably was not a better way to start the ride.

It all started off smiles

A mellow run into Geneve to meet up with the Machine and then on to the first col. It took some 60km to find it but we were glad of the warm up as the Romme kicks off at about 12 to 14% and does not seem to relax too often.

At the same time the sun really started to warm things up and we were grateful of the dappled shade offered from the tress at the beginning of the climb. 

We finally crested the col, watered ourselves at the fountain before being rewarded with the beautiful descent to the base of the

the true climb of the day the Colombiere. 

Why is it we always seem to climb this col in the midday sun?

Anyway it was a slog - and the last couple of k you can see all the way.

It did not help that the my super expensive - especially bought for this ride - bike - broke. Well stopped working quite as efficiently.

It really put a bit of a cloud on the day (and added a few km onto the ride trying to find a shop to sought it)


After lunch and unsuccesful bike shop hunting we made what was to be the final climb up to the Aravis. Very hot and salty

What we thought was the last coast into Megeve was slightly elongated by more bike shop hunting (unsuccessful) which ended up with a little off road and another 5km of climbing.

Beers and food soon cooled us off before meeting up with families for more food, beer, wine.

So tomorrow it is only two cols but still 2,700m of climbing - how does that work.

And with a broken bike still....