Bike Across Kansas Entry

The Bike Across Kansas route was announced on January 29 and I signed up again.  I have ridden across the state eight times and seven of them have been with the BAK.  I rode the first time on a forty pound Schwinn Varsity.  I was given that bike as a high school graduation present.  I love that bike and still have it.  The rest of the rides were done on my trusty Specialized Allez.  I went on the BAK last year and had a good enough time to do it again this year.  Last year the BAK filled up in eight days, which was the fastest ever.  The record was broken again this year because it filled up in two and a half days.  I am glad I did not procrastinate and got my entry in in time.  The route this year, which will be  the 40th BAK, will be a diagonal route from Elkart to White Cloud.  It is only the second time they have ridden a diagonal route.

 It is also a jersey year which means they offer a BAK jersey for sale.  That happens every five years.  I have a 30th anniversary one.

The Kodeman rode this BAK with me and one more.  It was a blast to have him along.  I think I enjoyed it much more than he did though.  It would be fun to ride one with him now that he is grown.   I signed up for a tent service today called Padres.  I first tried Padres last year on the BAK and thought it added to the experience.  It did have its drawbacks, such as hot tents in the afternoon and the price was a consideration.  The service is that they carry my luggage, set up and take down a camp, have fresh towls and snacks for me each day.  It becomes a community within a community during the week. I did sign up for a bigger tent this year which gives me the room to stand in.  I think the biggest factor for signing up for Padres is the fact that I do not have to unload the luggage trucks every day.  I have always hated doing that and worry about my gear being tossed out of the truck.

  The ride will be June 6 -14.  Lisa takes me to the border and then she picks me up at the end of the ride.  I have to be ready and get in more riding before this year.  It is a much easier ride if you are in shape and ready for it.  I think it will be a fun trip and this year I think I will try to shoot a lot more pics and see the sights a little more.  In years past I have had a hard time going slow.  I pushed it all the way.  I am not sure I can break that habit, but we will see.

Till next time, Remember, Live Life at Full Speed!!

Kendall