Finally texts make it to me, 36 hours after being sent by Bob. Here's a brief play-by-play of the kickoff week using some of Bob's words sent via text:
Wed 7/30 Day 1 - Bike failed at mile 12 - "broken bike will advise"
Thur 7/31 - unplanned rest day
Fri 8/1 Day 2 - "Finally first night ever bike camping" (didn't receive this text until Sunday)
(Note above was last time GPS location worked. Location tracking failed, and subsequent texts not delivered in order)
Sat 8/2 Day 3 - "Rain, mosquitos, deer flies, killed at least 12 but not before 6 bit me, perhaps more fun today... And let's not forget hills! Will cross Elk Pass soon.
Sun 8/3 Day 4 - time uncertain - "Major dilemma by myself male grizzly and female w/ cubs further, must go this way, will wait for other riders"
Sun 8/3 Day 4 - 5pm - "At Weary Creek, aptly named, bear scare cost me 2 hours everything aches but I'm okay"