Susan Peak

 Susan Peak

San Angelo, Texas

Rick, Velma, Jeffri, Christine, and Brian ready for the Susan Peak experience.

 Susan Peak from Walling Pecan is one of the hill climbing routes of San Angelo. 

 Susan Peak starts as a false flat with a 1% incline. 

 Slowly it increases to 3%, then to a 4% just before Rocking Chair ranch. 

 Rocking Chair marks the beginning of the Susan Peak hills. 

 Shot of the approach to Rocking Chair.  

 One of the many "rollers".

 Some are just more tame than others.

 This hill is the first of the best challenges. If one squints, Christine's head is just peeking over the last hump. 

 Top of a hill regroup time.

And a break to enjoy some of our rugged scenery.  

 As with all rides, not all is up. The only problem is that the wind was such that we still had to pedal down the hills.  

 One of those climbs that as soon as you hit the top, you look up and the road curves up again. 

 Another welcome downhill.

 This stretch always gets me excited and then lets me down. The last leg looks just like this. 

 However, as one turns the corner, the real last leg is in sight. 

 Brian, Rick, and Velma patiently waiting for the rest of the riders to show up at the turnaround point. 

 Remember the last leg that was up and into the wind. Going back was pay back time. Downhill with the wind. 

 Smooth sailing back.

 Going back, one can almost gain enough momentum to cross the next hill in the big chain ring.

 The sign states dangerous curve.

 Believe it as this gouge is right at the curve. As fast as one can go down the hill, if you are not paying attention, the ride can get interesting quickly. 

 Nice sage brush along the road.

 

 Good roller coming up.

 Last big downhill on the return trip. The truck caution sign indicates a 6 or 6 plus % grade. As I recall, this one is really about 11%.

 As the road levels somewhat, we know that we are within 6-7 miles of the finish. 

 Back at the Rocking Chair ranch gate. As mentioned, the wind is to our backs as shown by the flags. 

 Lipan Creek coming up. The end is getting closer.

 Rick and Brian lead the way. (Actually, I think Velma had already finished as she led most of the way).  

 Walling Pecan intersection.

 And with a left turn

 We are at the staging area. Good ride. Good group. Good time. 

Texas wild blue bells from another ride, but thought I would throw this in for good measure.