46.7 miles tandem, 13.6 miles solo, Odometer: 1799 – Ashby, MN to Melrose, MN
KEVIN – Last night’s child stoker fix lasted 11 miles. Suzi met us at Brandon, MN and picked up Elizabeth. In Alexandria, they found a bike shop. Jake’s Bikes worked hard and replaced the pedal arms, a definitive fix.
Elizabeth then rode ~35 miles, alternating between a running monologue and awesome power. I welcome her leftover power at the end of the ride. In two days, she has ridden 107.9 miles.
The bike trails parallel the local highways but are mostly secluded. We see a few people on the trails near towns, but for many miles the trail is ours alone.
Leaving Ashby “Resort” 
Sauk River Park, Melrose, MN
ELIZABETH – Today was a lot like yesterday. “Why”, you ask? Because we had like two hours of just waiting on the tandem bike getting fixed at Jake’s bike shop. Because the pedal came off AGAIN! It gives me no warning, it just pops off. So me and Suzi waited in the truck for an hour or so. First we got lunch for ourselves and Kevin. Then we took the truck and trailer into a car wash. Suzi sprayed while I used the hanging scrub brush. Then I called Adelynn (my sister) and talked to my cousin Raelyn plus my mom, Charlee. (She’s Rona’s daughter and Rona is Kevin’s sister.) Eventually we got the bike back and rode about 35 miles. For yesterday and today, I rode on the tandem bike … 107.9 miles!
Me and Kevin saw some swans in one of the lakes; they were really pretty.
Best moment: Lunch at DQ
Worst moment: Waiting on the bike
Surprise: That it was soo hot
What I learned: It can get hot in MN
Adams Park, Fergus Falls, MN
SUZI – We lucked into a $20 campsite with water and electric hookups at Sauk River Park in little Melrose, Minnesota. The temperature was in the 80’s but cooled off in the evening. Lovely green lawns and tall trees plus a terrific playground with a zip line. Elizabeth used some spare energy for several sessions in the playground. You just never know how these parks and campgrounds will turn out. The previous night, we were charged an exorbitant rate at the Ashby Resort and Campground. It wasn’t a bad place; Kevin and I enjoyed a quiet moment on a “porch” swing looking out at the lake. But the restrooms were poor and the playground had seen better days. Here’s a look at lovely Sauk River Park in Melrose:
Cycling with Kevin & Suzi 