11-29-2014, 02:33 AM
CA200..thanks for pointing that out. Most of the county roads are really very well maintained, but if you assume that, because the last three alphabet roads were great, you maybe in for a big and not fun surprise when you hit the fourth. Another thing to watch for is the seasonal "Spreading of the Gravel" ceremonies that the highway departments perform on a rotating basis throughout a county. This past summer, I lead a ride into southeast wisconsin. I had "scouted" the route the week before, so I "knew" that the sign saying "Loose Gravel" was only applicable for about 1/4 mile. Imagine my surprise when I learned that they had spread a (not so) thin layer of gravel across the road for about 3 miles. I revisited the same road about a month later and it was smooth as silk. Timing is everything and ultimately their maintenance techniques work quite well, but it does remind us to always be aware. Oh, by the way, my friends in that riding are finally speaking to me again. 