In my first ever Chilly Hilly ride, I was able to finish the 33 mile event in about 2.5 hours. Most important was that I never had to dismount while ascending a hill.
Before the ferry to Brainbridge Island left, I met up with Bob and Dale (from the sounder train) and met some other cool folks: Randy, Rod and Lee(sp?). Of the 6 people, 5 were riding Kona Dew Deluxes (same bike I have). While the weather was good, and the folks with better road bikes at home were sorry to be on their commuter bikes, but I was happy as I could keep up with the group. 
Another exciting detail – this group of people (aside from me) are all training for a one day STP. I don’t mention that to boast, I’m just really surprised and excited that I kept up with people I consider to be serious cyclists.
Pros:
I achieved my goals of completing without stopping mid-climb and averaged almost 14mph. The groups of folks I rode with were great and made it much easier when the terrain got tough.
No major mechanical issues across our group and no injuries in our group!!!
I shook lose some screws that held on my fenders and have semi-sore legs, but all is well.
Cons:
Crowds of dipshits – The part I disliked the most about the event was the crowd of under practiced/focused/serious riders during the first 5 miles. It was absolutely ridiculous how many people can’t hold their line. This isn’t a personal critique on them, but that lack of control is plain dangerous when their are 5000 other riders on the same route. Next year I’ll get into the “fast” line so I can squirrel past the fair weather yahoos and actually have some space.
Use your voice – You’re passing on my right, on my left, but can’t vocalize? WTF!? I almost killed a few people when changing positions. You should never pass on the right as a rule, but if you have to, at least shout your intentions. It’s a miracle more people weren’t injured.
I’m off to sit on the couch and enjoy a couple beers.
