Stage 14: Sumatra

Bintuhan to  Krui
Date: 03-09-2014 Time: 06:55 h Σ Time: 81:21 h
Distance: 139 km Σ km: 1725 km Temp: 23/39 °C
Up: 1674 m Σ Up: 16885 m Calories: 3150 kcal
Down: 1641 m Σ Down: 16775 m Σ kcal: 38798 kcal
Conditions: Hot & humid (what else?). Steep climbs (20% grade), very scenic. Road good at the beginning at the end lot of gravel and potholes. Lunch again setup in a sort of paradise location at the beach – serving fresh coconuts.

This was one of a tough ride, today. The long big climb after 40 km was announced the night before.  However there was no word about how steep some of the sections are going to be. And there was no saying about the many shorter but less steep ascents thereafter were following, adding to the total ascent of more than 1600m. We were mostly cruising along the coast line, except when crossing the national park with the big climb to 500m. The quick increasing temperatures did their part to the game and made cycling a sweaty job. At some point I thought Cristiano must be sitting somewhere at the beach, having a beer or more and a set of voodoo dolls of us all. For some unknown reasons he is punishing us the whole day, setting up more and more obstacles into our way and pushing the needles deeper and deeper.  Reception at the camp was exceptional: We got a late lunch and fruits. Dinner was excellent – I added a fish to my diet. I think I gonna need some extra portion of energy for the days to come. Room at the Surfer camp is basic, but has got 2 fans, that are absolutely needed!

 

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