Father of Six

Looks like Mo might have to be euthanized. The total damage was not limited to just the wheel and rear dérailleur. Looks like the rear triangle part of the frame was tweaked 3mm to the left. This means the new wheel won’t fit normally without rubbing against the frame. The mechanics can “dish” the wheel to match the distorted frame but this would cause the rim to rub against the back brake. I could ride without a rear brake, but that’s a little too risky. Since the frame is aluminum, this means that it is likely to break under stress - including tweaking or riding. This means I won’t be riding Mo for the MS150. It also means that I need a new frame.

So, I’m about to suffer and suffer badly. I will be riding 150 miles on the pig. I’m in big trouble.

I’m over the shock of losing Mo. I’m over the fact that I will be riding a 35lb bike instead of a 23lb one. I’m over expecting to finish each day fresh. I’m over expecting to finish each day in about 5 hours. I am now looking at at least 6 & 1/2 hours each day.

I’ve got to remember that this is not a race. I’ve got to keep in perspective that I am challenging myself to a test of endurance, and how quickly I finish matters not. I also need to remember all of you who have contributed to the MS Society on my behalf, and that I owe each of you a performance worthy of your contributions.

I will endure these 150 miles. And I’ll find a way to enjoy myself whilst doing so.