Erik and I decided that we needed a long (for us, in our current shape) ride, compared with the quick after-work rides we've been getting in. We settled on Skeggs (El Corte de Madera). It sure did feel good to get a long one in--I need more of that to get into shape. I think we'll probably add Skeggs--and its requisite long climb out-- to the after-work lineup.
I took the Spot out again today. I was enjoying the ability to change the front fork's travel for the climbs, down to 110 mm from 140. We ended up climbing Manzanita, a trail I rarely ride and never in that direction, and I forgot about a fairly hairy, rocky descent. I also forgot that I had my fork dialed down so low. That, combined with an ill-timed tap of the front brake, sent me over the bars. Other than pride and a skinned knee, I was fine. More of a bummer was that I broke the little clear window on my twist shifters. Those damn things are only 3 rides old and I already damaged them. :( At least nothing serious was broken.
In any case, I'm enjoying the bike and the differences from my RFX. I think the deeper front suspension and slack head tube angle might have saved my dumb ass from the OTB experience, but oh well. I need to spend more time on the Spot to get more comfortable on it, although I had a great time carving it along the North Leaf trail. It's a great bike.
The weather today was gorgeous. Clear skies, and early enough that there were no bugs out--a common annoyance at Skeggs--and the water running through the creek at the bottom was nice.