BICYCLE-STUFF REVIEWS

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Lobolly Liberator, Nacogdoches TX

March 25, 2006

This was my first Loblolly Liberator ride as I just discovered it this year (and I was even born in Nacogdoches); I did the 77-miler as a training ride for the MS 150. What an AWESOME ride ...undoubtedly one of the best-kept cycling secrets in Texas!! If more people knew about this one, there would be 2,000 riders rather than 200. The route was scenic and challenging with lots of rolling hills and a few "killer" ones similar to Muenster (complete w/ 40mph descents ... woo hoo!). Except for the first few miles, there were great country roads with very little traffic. Rest stops were well-placed and stocked FULL of goodies plus the friendliest people I've ever encountered on a bike ride (but what can I say? I'm a home-town boy). The weather was perfect for this one ... temp in the low 70's with very little wind. Things were extremely well organized and it all supported an excellent cause. Did I mention the full meal provided at the finish line inside the Nacogdoches Treatment Center? This ride is soooooo worth the drive to Nac; and after the ride you can enjoy the largest azalea garden in the state (in full bloom this time of year), just a couple of miles from the finish line. Its on my permanent annual list now. Y'all come!

March 27, 2004

"100 mile was actually 103 miles but was challenging with lots of hills. Pine Trees, Dogwoods and other flowering plants were in bloom so it was a beautiful ride. Friendly folks, lots to eat, food and drinks at every rest stop, and the scenery was awesome. Porta potties at rest stops, SAG was good and motorcycle route riders were visible and came by frequently. A great training ride for MS150. Some highway on routes, mostly black top FM roads. Roads could be better. I plan to return next year."

One of the best rides I have done. I did the 100 miler and it was more challenging than I expected. It was hilly in parts. Some of the roads were not great, but generally they were ok and most importantly not a lot of traffic. Rest stops and supports were great. Although I did not see a lot of signs at the beginning, there were very visible after about 20 miles. This ride is well worth the drive to Nacogdoches.

This is a well thought out century, and much tougher than the HHH. The hills are relentless and some are quite steep. Of course some of the country roads are bit rough, but I will take that over traffic anytime. The scenery makes the hill hammering well worth it. I will do it every year - a great early season training ride. I drove all the way down from Dallas and forgot my front wheel. The folks there were able to find one from the local BIKE SHOP, and I was able to have a nice 5 hour day in the saddle. East Texas hospitality showed its pretty face - except for the dogs that will help your hill sprints along the way.