We’re flying out of Anchorage and back to Minneapolis today. One of the coolest things about Anchorage is how well everyone seems to adapt to the conditions, both cold and darkness. All week I was surprised to see cyclists commuting through town at all times of day. I ran into Paul (pictured) originally from Madison, Wisconsin watching the races yesterday afternoon. At my bike shop, New Moon, the Surly Pugsly is more of a shop ornament than a real ride. In Alaska, however, everyone seems to have one. All of the multi-use (parkway) trails are groomed, rather than plowed like in Minneapolis, so the Pug is one of the best ways to get around town. Paul spoke of regular 50 mi group rides across town. Crazy. Riding in the Anchorage winter is not all sunshine, though. Notice the helmet and handle bar brackets for a sweet light set-up as well — twin 20 watt bulbs capable of blinding most oncoming traffic. What kind of pressure do they run in those tires? 8 – 10psi. Speaking of pressure, I’m getting the full 120psi to get on the plane right now, so my next post will be from back in the lower 48. . .
