Day 6 - Sandpoint ID to Thompson Falls MT, 87 miles, 2400’ cumulative climbing

This morning held out a threat of rain –  I carried my rain jacket just in case…but in travel mode, you don’t have to spend too much time deciding what to carry since there’s only one of anything in the gear bag that you might need for a particular condition.  Fortunately we were spared the rainfall though it looked like it might pour a couple of times on the ride. 

Today’s route, like yesterday, had much less climbing, with no major passes to get over, just some rolling risers and long flatter stretches.  So our small group, which grew to 7 riders this morning, set out at a good clip almost right from the motel parking lot.  And it was by far the fastest average speed so far on the trip, because in addition to an easier route we had our first good tailwind of the journey. A good tailwind can't be understated for the way it lifts riders' spirits! And, we enjoyed spectacular scenery along the way, causing us to stop for photos several times.

A bad thing happened today that always is a risk in group cycling: one of our bunch crashed, hitting the pavement pretty hard and looking pretty banged up.  Amy wanted to continue pedaling but wiser heads prevailed and she went to a regional medical facility to get looked at.  As it turned out she had a concussion and minor facial fracture.  All will heal but she will need to take a day or two off from riding and sit in one of the support vans until it’s clear she’s ok to continue biking.  I was very glad to see that she wasn’t hurt any worse, and of course would rather it hadn’t happened at all.  We'll report back on Amy when we know more.

Our remaining riders continued on though, and after picking up a couple of other riders along the route we were up to 7 or 8 strong for the final 35 miles.  And the tailwind increased, and we flew!  Averaging well over 20 mph for the final 25 miles, it was hard work but oh so much fun to fly so fast!

Our group Mark, Cliff, myself, Amy, Gerry, led by Jonathan

 And, we crossed into Montana, the third of twelve states that we will ride through. Having cycled in Montana in previous years, I know we're in for a treat with beautiful mountain and high plains vistas over the next several days.

Rest stop photo opportunity this afternoon.  Representing members of the Northern Transcontinental tour from about 7 states and China