Rapha Prestige Mt. Riga: 110 miles and 10,000 feet of climbing
Everything started with a 1hr 45min drive to north of NYC.
My time is limited so I don’t often go on big rides. (Anything longer than 3.5 hours) It works for me because my cx races are usually 45 minutes anyways. However, I have been wanting to do a long adventure ride in a very long time. When the idea of riding Rapha Prestige with the team came about I just had to say “Yes”. It was definitely one of the best decision I have made around bikes.
As always I had my trusted GRIII with me for the 110 mile ride. There was not one spot on the course that I didn’t think was beautiful. Our friend, Don, put together such an amazing route that was enough to convert me to a gravel rider. Below are a selection of images that summarize the day pretty well.
I hope you enjoy the photos.
The day started with a little rain.
Decisions, decisions: Vest or no vest? Arm warmer or leg warmers?
Philly Boyz.
First climb around mile 6 was as picturesque as it could get with early day sunlight and fog.
There is always a downhill after a climb and Matt is all smiles.
Is it even a gravel ride with a covered bridge crossing?
Colin in his happy place.
There is shame in sitting on the side of the road mid-ride. Matt calls it “self preservation”.
The route was full of unmaintained roads.
Mt. Riga climb is a must for every cyclist. It’s a gradual climb that it definitely worth it.
JB cooling down at the well after Mt. Riga climb.
Talking about picturesque countryside.
110 mile gravel ride means you can eat a lot of food.
Even some cramping couldn’t stop JB from smiling.
Our sister team - Lisa, Lucia, and Karen - was all smiles all day.
Matt didn't give me the same treatment.
A little obstacle can not stop us.
Upstate New York countryside.
We are with our friends Acme Bicycle Co. all day.
Don created a beautiful route.
How many punctures do you think I got?
Our Rapha Prestige Mt. Riga crew.
Daghan Perker is a creative director, photographer, and an athlete. You can see more of his work on his instagram handle @dperker He is also a founding member of tobedetermined.cc
