For the second time in around four years I rode without a camelback. The first time I did it was truly an exhilarating experience and I thought it would become a weekly occurrence. It never came to be...
For those that do know me I have a Camelback H.A.W.G. Eight hundred and fifty four cubic inches of storage space with a three liter water reservoir. The main reason for this giant pack is the carting around of a giant slr camera with a giant lens. I also have a first aid kit, tubes, patch kit (which is great when running tubeless) assorted tools, a blender, and an emergency bike in case the one I'm riding breaks down. This giant pack essentially becomes another part of me, a giant extension of my back if you will... With the great design the folks have over at Camelback it is very ergonomic on the trail and truly does become a part of your body, albeit a heavy part.
The beginning of the ride felt strange. I kept wanting to grab at the water spout to have a quick sip as I sped down Mill Creek towards my drop in zone. I never realized how addicted to doing that I had become, I think it was more of a socially awkward thing as I would paw for it whenever people came up the trail. Once on the trail I forgot I had no pack on and the bike worked its incredible magic. I hit Ewok for the first time and cleaned it, it was a good moment for someone who became so infatuated with riding a full suspension, semi big wheeled go anywhere-do anything bike.
I strongly believe real mountain bikers should ride hardtails. I feel incredibly cheesy typing that but it's the truth, every person that labels them self a mountain biker should have a hardtail in their quiver and ride that bike regularly, there is no better way to connect with the trail than riding one.
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| mill creek showing it's colours |
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| magical, magical Ewok, sigh... |
