Crossing into Colorado - The Great Divide (GDMBR) 2023 - Part 9 (Day 33-36)

[@Un-ez-rider]

" We've done more than her, I'm gonna go and gloat " caught me off guard was chewing on supper, and near choked to death laughing 😂 Really enjoying your ride, thanks for taking us along !

[@matryderadventures]

🤣 not the way I want it lose a subscriber. I'm glad you survived. I honestly really enjoy filming these videos. I notice so much more. Cheers and thanks for the support 👍

[@wendym5137]

I'm still watching and thoroughly enjoying its all been amazing. Keep it up, Mat. You're doing fantastic .thank you for taking us along with you .

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks Wendy. It's good to hear you're still watching. I love filming these videos. I definitely notice more and love reading the comments.

[@juliethrower1185]

Hi Mat, You deserve to be knackered. You're doing a fantastic job of covering all those miles in all weather's. I see the wildlife still love you🐄🦅🐍🦊 You're definitely a glass half full man. Great filming. That wind 😱! Looking forward to the next instalment. Take care. 😊

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks Julie. That fox definitely took a shine to me. I'm feeling a bit more energised now.

[@dsa5394]

Awesome video. Make sure you're keeping up with your hydration and electrolytes. It's easy to lose them at elevation and not even notice. Loss of them can cause headaches and fatigue, among other things. It's not like you have any other reason to be tired.😂

[@matryderadventures]

🤣 I'm using electrolytes more but occasionally forget to drink enough and get the headaches and fatigue again. I'm getting better though. Thanks for the advice 👍

[@quigleyoutside]

Yo Mat...do you think the wind will blow 😂 ? In Idaho, we call it sunshine... 30 mph out of the west. So sorry for those relentless breezes. You're correct about Steamboat being a nice town. Your AT trick of pick up and delivery was genius! Like the new cycling shorts. Hope you found a new tripod . Thanks and best...pops

[@matryderadventures]

Headwinds every day 🙄. I won't tell you whether I found another tripod. I'll keep you in suspense. Cheers Pops 👍

[@vickaiser]

That time lapse around your tent in the evening with the sun and the clouds in the background was awesome. Great job getting those great shots.

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks. I might try a few more timelapses. They're pretty easy to do. Just set up and forget about it. Thanks for commenting 👍

[@elzabethmorgan8020]

Hello from Wyoming! (Originally from Aberdare, UK). These are the absolute best videos of the GDMBR - thank you! You chose a good year to travel - last year here was crazy hot and dry, but this summer’s been the wettest in years. Looking forward to watching more adventures. Happy trails.

[@matryderadventures]

Hi. The amount of Welsh people I've met or heard from who now live in America is amazing. We get around!!! I believe I was very lucky this year. Especially with the weather and the wildfires. I'm planning some more adventures already. I'm actually out on a small overnighter right now. Cheers 👍

[@jemmaamortimer]

Kudos to you Mat for keeping going when you felt rubbish. It takes a strong courageous man to be able to do that. You should be proud of yourself. I’m loving your adventure still and get excited every time a new videos pops up. Can’t wait for the next instalment. Keep up the good work 😊

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks Jody. You'll give me a big head!!! 🤣🤣

[@ragleytrigadventures7422]

Well said. Nothing more, nothing less

[@michaelmather7352]

hi mat i'd allready watched Joe Nation thats hardball but was interesting , but yours is much cooler 😊

[@matryderadventures]

Cooler than Joe Nation!!! I'll take it 🤣🤣

[@cdg-hzg]

Your "biker/hiker hunger" is hilarious. At home I eat two meals a day. On a long tour I can't seem to eat often enough. Almost every little shop, service station, cafe, bakery, market, restaurant, etc. is a place to stop. I know I have more hunger with much more activity, but I thinks it's also just a better excuse to take a break. Anyway, who cares? It's great to enjoy those stops whenever you can.

[@matryderadventures]

Agreed. I think you're right about it being an excuse to take a break. I spend most of every day thinking about food!! Cheers 👍

[@conquerthedivide2021]

Enjoy Salida - one of our fav places on the route. Once you get to Del Norte the NM border is close then you’re on the last stretch. Great brewery (with awesome pizza) in Del Norte. A must visit!! There’s Bikepacking campsite in the Del Norte RV CG by the river (& laundry shed!!). A really nice spot to camp. No advice to give on route stretch out of Del Norte to Abiquiu since flash flooding (peanut butter mud) & wicked lightning storms plagued us in Aug last you so a good portion of riders had to take Hwy alternate to Abiquiu (including us). We were treated to a few surprises in case you have to get off onto Hwy: the historic steam train in Antonito (so so cool) & the hot springs at Ojo Caliente!! That place was heaven. We definitely did not want to leave. One piece advice - rest up in Abiquiu since the Abiquiu to Cuba section is pure hell. First 3rd is no big deal (other than the frogging wild dogs as you leave town) or at least typical route 16:15 but middle 3rd was the worst section on the entire route for us (worse than Lava Mtn at least for us). My rear rack & one pannier snapped like a twig on the rough brutal stretch & my front wheel was warp badly. Also keep eye on weather & flash flood warnings. It’s a real issue in NM. On positive note, Abiquiu has a fantastic hotel called Abiquiu Inn (laundry again!!) & the Georgia O’Keefe Museum is there since that was her home. Again a very cool unexpected route surprise. Also rock formations in Abiquiu are out of this world looking. Has that Utah feel.

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks for all of this information. It's really useful. I'm almost hoping for a highway diversion out of Abiquiu based on your experiences. I'll have to wait and see. I'll be prepared for the Abiquiu to Cuba section..mentally anyway!!!! Thanks again 👍

[@reinhartbigl367]

Great video Matt! What the hell were those hills and winds 20miles south of Rawlins. I found it was one of the toughest rides on the route, did you? Lucky you for getting to Brush Mtn Lodge. By the time we got to Colorado ( in September, about a month or so behind your lot) we were told that BML was only catering to hunters, so we took the alternative through Columbine…great ice cream! BML looks amazing!! Perhaps I’ll have to go back… Thanks for another great episode!!

[@matryderadventures]

That was without a doubt the toughest section. It was close to being unrideable. Imagine having a tail wind like that. BML was a perfect place to stop. It's a shame you missed out. Sounds like you made the most of the alternative. Cheers 👍

[@garyrapp1602]

You are doing a great job of describing what it is like to bike pack the GDMBR. It is fantastic to see you are embracing the kindness of others. I rode from Roosville to Rawlins in 2021. The kindness of others was one of the top take aways from my tour. I look forward to watching your next video.

[@matryderadventures]

You're absolutely right. I'll never forget the kindness I've experienced on this tour. Definitely one of the best parts of the whole experience. Cheers 👍

[@bnfan1189]

It makes my day every time you post an update! Keep going, and happy trails, butt x

[@matryderadventures]

Nice to hear. Cheers Butt 🤣

[@chuckwatts1581]

My wife and I are really enjoying your videos. She loves that shirt on you so much she made me get two. Thank you for sharing who makes them. I told her I wouldn't look as good as you in them, but she insisted. 😅 Anyway, safe travels my friend.

[@matryderadventures]

🤣🤣 I'm sure you look great in them!! I guarantee you smell better!!!!!

[@jsa6261]

@@matryderadventures Love this shirt as well. I was wondering what it is as I may need to get one. I must have missed when Mat said what it was...

[@matryderadventures]

It's a Columbia Silver Ridge Lite. Excellent shirt. Lots of vents. I've just bought another, brighter one for the TransAm.

[@jamesharris8541]

Always windy in Wyoming !!!

[@matryderadventures]

It wasn't just me then!!! I've never experienced winds like it. Cheers

[@RH_Wildcamping]

Another great instalment.. need to keep on top of that weight.. more steaks and fruit! 🙂Take care

[@matryderadventures]

I'm improving my diet. I'm eating more protein and getting a bit more fruit but admittedly not enough. I'll work on it. Thanks for commenting 👍

[@chrisryder5047]

Fab video Math. It made me smile😊.No wonder you don’t want to leave the stopping places they’re awesome. X

[@matryderadventures]

They are awesome. It's always hard to leave. I'll be in Salida tomorrow. I've heard it's a nice town. X

[@justpaul8040]

Keep going, Mat! You’re inspiring me! Also, do you need some lip balm? I found that my lips got really dry and chapped over there. Stay strong!

[@matryderadventures]

I've started using lip balm with sun block. I should have used it from the start but I'm not that bright. Cheers 👍

[@218colin1]

Loving the videos mat. Lots of information nice to see different parts of the world and how other people live.

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks. I'm glad you're enjoying the videos 👍👍

[@parduez]

That was a lot of wildlife in one video bro. Colorado is stunning.

[@matryderadventures]

It is Bro. I'm right now at the highest point on the whole trail 3500 metres!!

[@PThree-ru7gl]

Headwind , nobody ordered a headwind !! That’s proper energy sapping that Mat, you cracked on though. Well played. I bet you remember that bloody headwind for a long time !! 👍 great video again, cheers !!

[@matryderadventures]

I'll never forget it!! It was definitely an experience. At least it wasn't in the basin. I have to be grateful for that.

[@mickilkr]

This is another great video! Keep it up!

[@matryderadventures]

Cheers 👍

[@chrisstrege9906]

I'm glad I found you on here man. Watch out for them hobos brother. Leaving Del Norte in the morning. Can't wait to watch the rest of your videos!

[@matryderadventures]

Hey Chris. We're in Del Norte right now. Camping in the park. I'll look out for hobos 🤣🤣🤣

[@Bikepacker]

Slater is a great quick stop - there is a cool museum with food in the basement for cyclists. You would've loved it! You're officially a cowboy/cow herder now! Lol 🐄 Steamboat is super cool!

[@matryderadventures]

I liked Steamboat. Sadly I missed the museum in Slater.

[@user-my4vv7fc7l]

You’ve got this mat!! Your doing amazing, can’t wait for nxt video

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks 👍 next video should be Monday.

[@user-my4vv7fc7l]

Will keep an eye out, sue

[@jacqueline7118]

You were right that you should have taken that rest day. Childish no, exhausted, yes! Battling head winds is hard and it just zaps every inch of energy! When I have days like that I always say my batteries are on empty and they need a recharge! lol Wonderful episode, looking forward to the next! :) :)

[@matryderadventures]

I think you're right. It all stemmed from the headwind day. I ended up doing a few short days and definitely recharged my batteries. I'm back to normal now thankfully. 👍

[@jacqueline7118]

@@matryderadventures Normal is good! :) I know years ago I did some very difficult backpacking trips, grueling really. I realized that it was hard to enjoy the adventure when all I did was fall into bed at the end of each day exhausted, then do it all over again the next day. I would do it all again only hike less and enjoy camp/rest time more often, even if it took more time to complete the route. :) :)

[@TheCoopsvids]

Doing well mate over half way .. loving the adventure so far. Get on Strava 👍🏻🚴

[@matryderadventures]

I'll look into Strava, I'm heading for Salida today so welll over half way now..cheers 👍

[@shanekaplicz]

Ah! Maybe that’s the bit everyone moans about that we were discussing last video 😅 Still great to see you on this journey. Still inspiring and making it more of a motivation for me to get out there. Well done!

[@matryderadventures]

Could be..hope you.make it out here at some point. Cheers 👍

[@timparsons2741]

Super ! Looks like your over half way done .

[@matryderadventures]

Definitely over half way. As of right now I have about 1000 miles to go. I'll be in Salida tomorrow. Cheers 👍

[@bmurray7248]

I’m curious on your thoughts of north bound vs south bound. I live in BC and think riding home might be the way to go. North bound that is.

[@matryderadventures]

I sometimes think northbound would be harder. Northbounders seem to think the opposite. I really can't tell you. I think finishing in Canada would be nice though.

[@joelofarc13]

Awesome as always Mat!

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks..good to hear. Thanks for following along 👍

[@pfmitenko635]

Hi Mat, I'm really enjoying your epic quest. The tiredness and headache you felt at Brush Mountain Lodge might be due to the high elevation there (approx. 7560' according to google maps). My best wishes for your safe journey!

[@matryderadventures]

Glad to hear you're enjoying my quest! I think you're right about the headaches. I'm at about the same altitude now but I imagine I've adapted to some extent. Thanks for following. It's really appreciated 👍

[@billbike9573]

I thought northbound riders should be worried about strong winds in Wyoming. But this is really a brutal headwind!

[@matryderadventures]

I thought so too. I guess it's just the luck of the draw. The northbounders I'd met prior to that section were all moaning about the headwinds so I was all set for a tailwind....

[@julianhawker7672]

Hey Bert, I'm a bit late to the party this week as been on my own little trip, not the one I originally intended after a last minute let down but an enjoyable ride none the less. That headwind looked brutal! RE: Your hungry all the time. I remember hearing once that we should be taking on 4000 Calories a day for all day riding, so get as many in as you can. 👍 I have a 29x3" rigid MTB and have found that lowering the front tyre pressure in the rough stuff, helps the hands and upper body fatigue. Its a fine line between too soft ( Drag ) and too hard ( no give) might be worth experimenting a bit and seeing if it helps. Your going well , looking forward to the next installment, Cheers. Ernie 👍

[@matryderadventures]

Hey Ernie. Where was your trip?? I couldn't eat 4000 calories per day. I'm trying though. I wanted 3" tyres for mine but couldn't get any. I'll experiment with tyre pressures. 29x3" that's a monster tyre. Cheers, Bert.

[@GrahamFootBicycleLover]

Good morning! Save this to watch later. Two in a row, love it.

[@matryderadventures]

Morning! You can put up with one hour in one go???? 🤣Cheers Graham.

[@GrahamFootBicycleLover]

@@matryderadventures no problem, wish they were loger haha.

[@chromebook2724]

Holy smoke mate, you're edging close to New mexico now. you tube didn't like my earlier comment where i mentioned a popular website to monitor the wild fires. Gila forest has a couple by the route to keep an eye on. thanks for the great content.

[@matryderadventures]

Getting close! That's weird...why would KZbin object to that?? I'll make sure to check when I get closer. Thanks for the info. Cheers 👍

[@bikesandbeyond618]

Congrats on getting to Colorado! I was just thinking when the video began that you were looking a bit thinner.... Keep eating. Eating wins races (or rides).....

[@matryderadventures]

I'm eating loads at the moment. I'm not putting on any weight but I definitely have more energy. Cheers 👍

[@colourdoodles3507]

Superb work Matt, a recent convert and loving the content. I am just finishing off an Enigma Titanium for bike packing so some idea of how your bike electronics are working would be really helpful at some point. Cheers. Keep it up… 👍

[@matryderadventures]

No problem. I'll make a point of discussing the electronics in my review when I get back. It would be the bike computer, power banks, drone, GoPro, dynamo hub. Lights, Garmin Inreach etc. If you want info sooner just message me on [e-mail] and I'll give you my opinion on everything. Fire away with any other questions too. Cheers 👍

[@colourdoodles3507]

@@matryderadventures Many thanks for taking the time to respond Matt. No rush so when you get back will be great 👍 Enjoy the remainder of your adventure… Keep at it. 😀

[@ezr168]

All the miles and days on the go, altitude can also take it out of you. Sorry I missed you by a few days in Salida, should have tried to contact earlier. Cheers

[@matryderadventures]

I think you're right. The altitude definitely doesn't help. I lost track of where I was and seemed to be in Salida before I knew it. Great town 👍👍

[@bderris]

During that stretch south of Rawlins, i couldn't wait for the pavement to change to dirt. Seemed like forever because the road is paved much further south than my maps show, and the same headwinds.

[@matryderadventures]

It was definitely the least enjoyable part of the route for me. Like you say, the pavement went on forever.

[@Luigi13]

Where is your friend each time you stopped to video record? Mat you mentioned there is two of you. I am guessing that recording the trip does make you more tired each time you have to doubleback to retrieve your Gopro camera.

[@matryderadventures]

Hi. I was riding with my friend John at that point. We didn't ride together all day but always met up for breaks and to camp each night. It was more work going back for the camera each time..I did it less and less as the trip went on.

[@ragleytrigadventures7422]

Do you use padded underpants below your shorts Matt? Also I noticed you use a brooks saddle. What’s your thoughts about it? Thanks

[@matryderadventures]

I was wearing padded bib shorts but have stopped using them for about a week. I just have normal underwear now and it's working out fine. I'm honestly not sure which is the best way to go but the bibs are a nightmare to keep clean and I think that's the cause of saddle sores. I really like the Brooks saddle but the rivets are stupid. Mine is the non leather C17 and they seem to be purely for aesthetics.

[@ragleytrigadventures7422]

Thanks for quick reply. I bought the c15 carved one cambium but changed my mind after just a first 100k ride. My seat bones went quite sore. One going back to standard saddle which the bike came with as it was not that bad 😂 Btw if I can recommend the runners Lycra undershorts to go with shorts. They don’t hold sweat and don’t cause any friction 👍

[@Mike-vd2qt]

Try to find some protein powder mix. Rather than forcing down carbos in a muffin, the protein mix will help muscle recovery. Plus the drink mix goes down easier for calories and proteins. You're doing great! Hang in there.

[@matryderadventures]

Great idea. I'll pick some up, maybe when I'm in town later. I'm not sure why I hadn't considered that myself. Cheer 👍

[@Mike-vd2qt]

@@matryderadventures Request: as you head south from Salida into NM can you briefly mention water carry, water resupply. I'm restarting the Divide next week from Steamboat, looks some long stretches south of Salida. Thanks very much.

[@matryderadventures]

No problem. If I forget please message me at [e-mail] and I'll tell you everything you need to know. Cheers.

[@sipeb7543]

Can I ask what model your helmet it is? I need to get a new one. Great video by the way.

[@matryderadventures]

Thanks. I have a Giro Source. I like it but don't have much experience with helmets.

[@billbike9573]

After Rawlins, did you camp at Dirtyman Fork?

[@matryderadventures]

I don't think so. We ended up on the side of the road near a reservoir. It wasn't an official campsite.

[@billbike9573]

@@matryderadventures I thought this location: 41.26534,-107.25212

[@chromebook2724]

There is camping with a toilet @ 30 miles south of Rawlins near McCarty canyon rd. 41.403777, -107.240326 @@billbike9573

[@SasSaga]

Altitude…

[@Bikepacking]

Man you really dont eat good while you’re on the trails .. my body would starve with that trail food … and wouldn’t have any engry..fair plays to you

[@matryderadventures]

I've improved my diet. At the very least just increased the amount I eat. It seems to have worked. I have plenty of energy now.

[@GrahamFootBicycleLover]

Just listening to your comment on your back and neck pain, you need suspension forks going forward. Just helps and is worth the weight penalty. Or, you can do what I do. Ride a light weight fatbike haha. #comfy. Also are you on Strava?

[@matryderadventures]

Hi Graham. I may look into the forks. I can put 3" tyres on this bike but I couldn't find any before setting off. Maybe they'd help. I'd love to try a fatbike.