We started with lot of enthusiasm a month ago but lost momentum somewhere in between. Mahabs is about 50+ kms from Chennai and we had planned a day long expedition. We had over 15+ enthusiasts 'register' but only 5 showed up on the D-day which was today (Sunday, 9/3/06). Out of the 5, only Anuj made it to Mahabs. Hari, Vaibhaw & I stopped at Crocodile Bank which is about 35 kms from Chennai.
Chennai weather was unusually conducive till we Crocodile Bank, but the return trek was killer, especially for Hari & I. Both of us were ventured with a old 'mountain bike' which was not conducive for this kind of long distance trek (what were we thinking?).
Thillai & Hari arriving at Muttukkadu pit-stop. Thillai returned back to the city due to prior commitment and rest pedalled along.
Vaibhaw & Hari at the Crocodile Bank. We decided to head back to the city from here.
Hari & Anuj at a impromptu pit-stop near Prarthana Cinema on our way back. In fact, Anuj was the only one to make to Mahabs and he caught up with Hari & I as we were struggling our way back.
Lesson Learnt for me: Get a new bike & appropriate clothing paraphernalia.
We did talk about doing this kind of a trek on a regular basis. I sure would like to post a successful trek story soon.
Pasta before and Gatorade during will get you to and back from a 35 mile ride.
ReplyDeleteYou can do it without new cloths and a bike.
Hi Ram,
ReplyDeleteSorry to miss doing this with the team. I along with 2 other pals did chennai-mahabs starting at 11:30 AM from chennai and reached home at 8:45 PM.
Yes, defnly the sports bike helps.
See you on sunday .
cheers
kk
Should been an adventure. Ligther closting, a different handlebar (it will be difficult to sit straight and peddal) will make it more enjoyable.
ReplyDeleteI drink lots of water during and after the trip.
What was the traffic like? Is it safe?
ReplyDeleteI dont think i will be able to do it...
ReplyDeleteRam,
ReplyDeleteQuite interesting to know about your adventures. I Wish I was there. We had been to short cycling trips in our younger days in Chennai. Your pics of crocodile bank brought me some old memories. Please keep in touch if you happen to visit London. Just mail me and we shall try to meet.
Annoymous
ReplyDeleteYeah.. Carb loading would help..
Raman
Thanks.. I will definitely try again..
KK
Congratulations to you guys for cricket / Mahabs trip..
Yes.. I am going to get a new bike and will consult you on that..
Venky
Thanks.
Wa
Safety?.. Don't think so.. but the odds are similar to walking on the Chennai streets..
Balaji
Have you tried?
Balaji S Rajan
Join us when you come to this part of the world.. I will look you up if I come to London.. But with the kind of restrictions at LHR now.. I will avoid LHR as much as possible..