Thanks NMDOT!

Thank you State of New Mexico Department of Transportation – Highway Department!  Also known as NMDOT.

I try to stay off highways when I am cycling. However; that is not the easiest thing to do in this area.  There is one main highway (NM 314) that is the north-south artery.  Yup, I end up on it fairly regularly as many of the side roads simply do not interconnect.  I generally pick odd riding times to avoid as much traffic as possible.

Remember my flat tire?  That, IMO, is the problem with the highway.  NM 314 has a great shoulder for bike riding – wide, flat, and smooth – but the build up of glass, small-sharp stones, gravel, and general “junk” is tremendous.  I’m pretty sure this junk is what led to my flat tire.

So, why the thanks?  The NMDOT highway department crew came thru this week and swept the shoulder!!!  It is fantastic!  I had no idea they did such a thing.  In this age of reduced budgets, I am even more amazed.  My last several rides have included ten miles or so on this highway and the change is VERY much appreciated.

Thank you guys!

I rode up the following road today. I had to take a photo as it was so serene and pretty.  I kinda envy you guys back east that ride thru a canopy of trees like this all the time.  No wait… envy is bad.  I don’t envy you!!  I just think it is cool that you get to enjoy the experience so often!  🙂

And finally, take a look at that odometer reading!  408 miles – Pretty Kewl!!  This is my total mileage since starting riding again on about July 20!