CycleBum

Catch up 1 - Wrenching

2010-06-03T05:54:00.000-07:00

During the cyclebum golden years, I wrote about the closing of Discovery/Big Wheel Cycles and the great times I had there.

I really missed having a part time wrench job and not having a "bat cave" to do race prep at.

Now, I am back at it. Now, its my job job. At this very moment, I am somewhat of a freelance mechanic. I work at more than one shop while not having a schedule anywhere. I get calls when I am needed. For the past few months it has been about 4-6 days a week of wrenching. I enjoy making bicycles operate well. I see the immediate impact on the machine I am working on. People are stoked to get their rec. bike back or relieved to be mobile again. The people I work with and encounter at shops enrich my life.

I am learning. I am paying attention to much more than wrenching. The biz.

There will be a day where I have my own Broadway show.

Im back from never leaving

2010-06-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

So now. Lets do a brief and not so detailed catchup.

Things started getting thin here during my bout with corporate procedure and protocol.

Basically, I got canned.

As is with that door/window saying, it wasn't the end of the world.

However, it did mean I didn't have (corporate) time to waste and do things like write this there thing.

I have missed this here thing.

Ive had people mention it to me. At rides, on the street, or at 25mph in the peloton 5 laps into a driveway race.

Truth is, I am living cycling right now.

As in making a living.

Im back to wrenching in some ATX's friendly neighborhood bike shops.

Ive got to say. I enjoy working in bike shops.

I have been riding mostly mountain bikes recently.

The greenbelt has a good flow for quite some time.

It was a great spring for MTB'ing.

Ive done a few road races and criteriums this season too. Im about 3 starts from gettin' that 4 upgrade.

Back to MTB'ing. Ive whined about it before. People are missing out. There is some special stuff in mountain biking. I will leave it at that for now........, with emphasis on the ...'s

P.S. Wear your sunglasses. Almost lost a peeper on a ride recently. Buy cheap sunglasses with three interchangeable lenses. Think UVEX (PRP Sponsor), Tifosi, or Optic Nerve.

Alright folks, rust knocked off. Expect the usual expectations from now on.

Also will be showing some catch-up pics.

Confessional

2010-03-02T19:51:00.000-08:00

Although I have never had stats on this thing, I know some people actually read it from time to time. Some ran into me on the street and shared such things.

Ive been MIA for quite a while. Life happens.

I have not been in a hole.

I have been riding.

Fact remains, Ive just been out of it.

I hope to get back on it.

I have a lot planned for the near future.

Racing

2010-02-02T10:54:00.000-08:00

There are two criteriums this weekend.

One at "Belterra" on Saturday, and the other at the "Driveway" on Sunday.

Time to quit this shit, time to begin some shit

2010-01-30T10:04:00.000-08:00

The first shit refers to me being a wiener.

The second shit refers to me being badass.

It starts today.

Turmoil

2010-01-27T14:44:00.001-08:00

Look up the definition. It sucks.

1/27/10

2010-01-27T07:56:00.000-08:00

I'm full of undesirable stuff.

Not going to San Marcos. Just don't wanna. Want to hang with a friend, but just don't wanna ride that ride right now.

Gonna ride.

360 at least once.

Perhaps a GB ride.

Perhaps a cruise with the nooner crowd.

Cyclebum out.

1-26-10

2010-01-26T18:54:00.000-08:00

Im still mental.

But, I have managed to put on some good miles these past few days. Been to 360 a ton.

Homeboy and I went to Walnut Creek on Sunday on the cross bikes and showed the weekend warriors whats what.

ATC ride on Saturday was legit. I got heckled, I cracked wise, I closed gaps, I did well, I had fun!

Weather makes a GB ride imminent. Maybe tomorrow after my San Marcos ride.

Back on track

2010-01-22T18:57:00.001-08:00

It has been a rough month for this ol' bum. Being off the bike (I still commuted, just didn't get my sweat on) and not getting enough sun will turn the most irie rasta into a grump.

Things are looking up friends.

I rode 360 the past three days, and managed a Mt. B ride today too.

Tomorrow I find out where im at during the ATC Saturday ride.

CX State Championships

2010-01-20T23:26:00.000-08:00

I had my best race ever.

I hadnt trained in a month.

I was stupid and drank way too much the night before.

I still had my best race ever.

Everything felt good. I was having fun out there. The course was 100% legit.

Maaaaan.

MUD, MUD, MUD.

I went to spectate the day before and witnessed the carnage happening at the start.

I burned a good part of my tank on the start, and was looking like a contender for like the first 1/3 of the first lap.

At least I stayed out of trouble.

Throughout the race I gave up places, ending up 14th out of 41.

Not bad, not bad at all.

I was actually very very happy with my performance, and still am.

But note this: Im gonna kick ass next year!

I dont know.

2010-01-20T23:03:00.000-08:00

Man I dont know.

2010-01-19T08:45:00.001-08:00

One year son, one year.

2010-01-18T13:50:00.000-08:00

It has been one year since I started this collection of misspelled and grammatically terrible ramblings.

Dont have, never will have stats.

Thanks readers.

Cyclo-Cross State Championships and such

2010-01-14T05:27:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty much to 100%. Did two pretty aggressive greenbelt rides Monday and Tuesday.

Races are going on Saturday and Sunday just outside of Austin.

http://lonestarcyclocross.com/

Ive got the leg, but not sure about the wind.

More importantly, I have a plan.

2010-01-10T07:06:00.001-08:00

ENERGY

2010-01-09T16:02:00.001-08:00

2010-01-09T15:48:00.001-08:00

Dirt Derby Season End ParTAY

2010-01-05T07:54:00.000-08:00

The website says friends are welcome. If you have ever wasted time here, you are my friend.

HammerHead Bicycles - 6:30

Soon...

2010-01-04T08:42:00.000-08:00

A century each way.

Sleep in San Antonio.

Not sure about the roads, but something like this. Lunch in Blanco.

Do it, to it

2010-01-04T07:22:00.000-08:00

Tendon is ready to ride.

13 days...

2009-12-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

Fela Kuti

There are 8 parts.

2009-12-30T16:20:00.000-08:00

I am able to ride a bike, but not ride a bike. The italics indicate speed.

I am not known to take injuries super seriously (I did two cyclocross races with a cast).

Over the holidays, I talked to a cousin who runs cross country. His injury experiences and second hand advice from his coach, I'm convinced to take it easy.

After all, we have the cyclocross state championships soon.

Racer Boi

2009-12-24T09:45:00.000-08:00

I am no longer "unattached".

For a while I had been hesitant to join a team. I have heard stories of team drama and what not, so I never really thought about it. Most just didn't seem right for me.

Here is the deal. This past year, I've started racing and really enjoying it.

A buddy of mine races for Pirate Race Productions, and started hinting at me checking them out out.

I really like that is a very new team that competes in mountain bike, cross, and road races. I honestly enjoy racing them all.

Meeting a few of the team members at a TXBRA race sealed the deal.

On the practice side of things, there are benefits for joining a team. Most everyone first thinks about sponsors, that is true. Racing and frequent training is tough on gear. The other is the logistics of getting to races.

Beyond that, I think at this point in my super-amateur racing career, this will be a good thing for me and the team.

The gang seems very cool, I look forward to meeting, riding, and racing with them.

I am excited.

Texas Tour

2009-12-18T08:10:00.000-08:00

It was done. 300 Miles from Austin to McAllen. Two days. One new man.

Let me expand a bit on just why I did this. Like was said in the previous post, Austin was my birthtown, and McAllen was my hometown.

Even though I have no memories of living in Austin, I have always felt some sort of strong connection to it.

I remember as a kid, Austin always seemed so exciting. Even though most weekend trips were to San Antonio because of it's many attractions, when we would go to Austin it felt weirdly right.

Not that I don't have love for where I did grow up. It has contributed highly to this dude typing.

Some people leave home for college and "grow up" or change. I ended up going to UT Pan American and started growing there. While at Pan Am, I had this very eccentric political science professor. It was his first semester teaching, and he managed to get arrested by university police when Ricky Perry visited one day. Yup, that eccentric. At the time, I thought he was a weirdo for riding his bike everywhere at promoting the idea. Beyond biking, he was quite an influence on my outlook on a variety of subjects. JCC, thanks.

Part of my growing included realizing that I want to get to Austin. I had a friend who had also started at UTPA and transferred to UT soon after. With him telling me how great Austin was, and me working my ass off (studying was a new concept), I made It to Austin in 2003

I have loved my time in Austin. Many transformations and much growing, including becoming a CycleBum.

And that it what it comes down to. These two locations have had such a profound impact on me.

This is where it gets weird...

I sometimes think about how human experiences are so different now than hundreds or thousands of years ago. Can you image a hiking trek between villages/settlements/whatever? A voyage on a sailboat? Heading west by horse?

I'm sure hike-camping is close, but I think there is a difference when your locations have meaning in your life.

I wanted a glimpse of how that feels. I wanted to be excited/scared/in-danger/proud/confused/sad/determined/vulnerable/delirious/exhausted between these places that are important to me. That just does not happen in a car, bus, or plane.

So yea, this idea of riding from Austin to McAllen has been floating around in my head for about 3 years or so.

As was said in the previous post, my mother's joke about riding home struck a cord. I did an insane amount of planning and research in one day. I was obsessed with the idea. It felt like everything had been built up over my life, and my mom pushed the button. It was go time.

Although I told my mom right after her joke that I was going to ride home, I let her think she had talked me out of it. She worries enough with my "regular" cycling. I let my brother and sister know what was going on. My brother didn't believe I was serious at first, and my sister was scared I was serious. I told them that I would give them updates on what road I was on, and between what cities.

Leaving my apartment was pretty weird. It was like an exaggerated parade of emotions in fast sequence.

I leave on my cross bike and a backpack full of technical clothes and supplements.

I took off my racer boi seat and put one one with history.

My first stretch of road was 183 South out by the airport.

I wound up in Lockhart before BBQ time (what a shame), so I asked a local where to get the best breakfast tacos.

Ill be riding to Lockhart soon for a BBQ cruise. Any takers?

Mr. Taco time.

Good stuff.

I stopped in Nixon and got a Dr. Pepper I had never had.

Kennedy was interesting. Urban/Industrial decay photogs, check that place out, much material to work with.

Between Kennedy and Tuleta is where I found my feather.

Some people have no problem keeping things from or lying to parents. Well, I'm pretty close to my mom. We usually chat a few times through out the day. She knows me and my habits. Call me a mama's-boy........because its true.

When I started the ride, I texted her that I would be on the bike most of the morning. When she called later and heard traffic, I lied and said I had been busy after my ride, and was back out on the bike just commuting. She questioned me. She sensed something, but I insisted I was telling the truth. I find out later that she tried getting info out my my siblings, and even asked them to log onto facebook. My brother and sister managed to protect my surprise and my mothers sanity.

In Tuleta, the first setback. Cramp. Inner quad on the right leg. Nuts...

More than nuts actually, this is trouble. I was still like 13 miles out of Beeville. There was a flash of worry, but a collected myself, ate some salt, drank water, and massaged that mouse out. I took my time, but wanted to get back on the road before something else got cold and cramped. Another seven miles...cramped up again. Again, massaged it out.

I get to Beeville, and start looking for a place to stay. No, no camping for me. My next tour (or bike-packing) adventure will include that, but I have no panniers or cold camping gear right now, so hotel for me.

I look for one on my cell phone, reference my GPS and head to a Best Western. Well, seems I was little confused and I rode 5 miles in the wrong direction. Man I really just wanted to sit down.

I roll up to the Best Western on Hwy 59 around 4:30.

While asking about a room, the lady could not ignore my get-up and asked what I was doing. I explained, and got a nice discount out of it.

I just sat and did nothing, and pretty much thought nothing (a very very very rare thing in my brain) for about 45 minutes.

Then, I make a call home and struggle to act as normal as possible, but I pull it off.

I knew though, I had to get stuff done. I need to eat, do some sort of therapy on my legs, and plan/prep for the next stage.

I pedaled on over to a convenience store and got two sausage wraps, some junk food, and a fat Budweiser. I loaded up on that and some supplements for muscle recovery.

My shower that night was great. I let the hot water work on my legs for a while. I was worried that that muscle that had cramped would become a problem. I tried out this idea. I got one of the towels, wet it with hot water. A makeshift heat pad. I massaged and heated the area while looking over my maps and prepping my clothes and support gear for the next day.

I make a few calls.

One was to my grand parents, who didn't know either. At the end of the call, I asked for my cousin's cellphone number. He was my closest cousin and we tinkered with bikes together as youth. I didn't expect she would think anything of it. I learned later, that after we hung up, she called my cousin to her house and grilled him. She felt something was up, and that he knew (which he did). Very weird and very awesome. He managed his way out of it.

I had a good night's sleep.

I woke at 5am with tiredness and some soreness pretty much everywhere.

My knee hurt a little.

I looked outside and the weather guys were right. Low 40s and rain. I selected my clothes and packed the rest.

Before coffee and psyche-up:

After:

This day I wore a lycra base layer, northface rain jacket, skullcap, craft rain pants, seal skinz neoprene socks, and spenco cold snap gloves.

This was a good setup, but I found out, not perfect.

I check out around 6 am and hit 181 south.

It was dark. I ran my NiteRider MiNewt Mini to see the road/debris and a NiteRider ultrafazer max as a flashing front.

FlashBak had me covered on my pack. And I had a Princetec red flasher on my seat-bag.

No lies. I was pretty beat up that morning. I convinced myself that it was just part of the warm up, that it would all start getting better after 20 miles.

My first stop after leaving Beeville was Skidmore. That muscle that had twice cramped the previous day, had a tingle going on in it. I picked up a pickle in a bag type thing at a store. I drank the juice and had a few bites, putting the rest away for later.

It was very tough getting into my zone the first few hours. I was "less than" comfortable after after the first two hours. Either I managed to sweat too much, or water worked its way in. I wasn't wet, but damp. Damp though, is not good in cool weather with fast winds.

Effort management is key. I needed to work hard enough to maintain heat, but not so much to exhaust myself or risk a cramp. Also though, I am trying to make it home before dark. I really did not want to ride through Edinburg/Mcallen at night, too dangerous.

Ah...danger. Might as well address the subject now. It was dangerous, but not carelessly or unmanaged.

Danger in a tour can arise from a lack of preparedness. I did my homework, thought of the various scenarios, and planned for them.

I have a good number of highway and country road miles under my helmet. My riding partners know how cautious I am. I look back very very frequently. I ran my rear lights at all times. Flashbak has great daytime visibility. I always look forward looking for bail opportunities or situations where I need to be extra vigilant and prepared. For instance. On smaller roads, bridges over creeks and such will not include a shoulder, and leave you no way out in a worst case.

And honestly, my most dangerous stretches were in Austin and Edinburg/McAllen. The highways and FM and county roads great, as were most of the drivers. Most gave me as much room as possible. Some gave me thumbs up/nice honks/brake flashes. Got a few encouraging blasts from truckers.

But hey, if there wasn't danger, it would be less interesting, fulfilling, epic, primal, etc.

Things started to look up when I hit Alice. That marked the 2/3rd point, and was my longest rest stop.

I stopped at a Whataburger. They usually have clean restrooms, and do have hot food.

Step one: base layer and sock change.

I learned at the last cyclo-cross race that even a slightly damp base layer will have you shivering in no time.

I took off my seal skinz and went old school. Two pairs of regular socks covered with two convenience store plastic bags.

The employees got a kick out of my story. Pretty much every stop, I got some questions, but that was the first long-ish dialogue.

I destroyed a burger combo that I loaded with extra salt, and got back to it.

Now I looked at my next step, the century home. I looked at it as a entity/goal in itself. Never mind the 200 miles prior in just over 24 hours time. I was back on the road and feeling good. I was cruising fast for a good time. I had popped a ibuprofen somewhere between Skidmore-Alice, and was feeling great.

About 20 miles out of Alice, a sharp acute pain in my right knee pops up. I unclip and shake my leg around a bit and convince myself that will fix it.

Self deception...

That is an important aspect of doing things that are great, painful, challenging, crazy, less-than-believable or slightly stupid.

Was there little reason why I should have believed that I could pull off 300 miles in two days.

I ride often, but this thing was spur of the moment, no training "per se".

I'm not generally a long distance man. My road racing is crit (30-60min) or around the 40-70 mile range. Cyclocross races are usually between 30 and 60 min as well. Ive only done one century prior, the Tour Das Hugel.

I lied to myself in order to experience a different/new edge.

I chose to lie to myself and not quit.

I knew friends that were on driving to McAllen from Austin that day. I could have called my sister or brother to pick me up.

Another 20 miles later, I noticed my left wrist was not working properly. I couldn't managed to shift the front derailleur because my hand was cold and perhaps not getting good circulation due to the long hours on the bars. They had been uncomfortably cold (for my normal standards) two hours into the ride. My gloves are meant for the cold and wet, but not for prolonged periods, more like commuting or short race scenarios. This is why you don't see any pictures of this second part. I could not hold onto the camera while riding in these conditions, and stopping was just not practical.

I stopped in Falfurrias to get my hand back and to get pickle and Redbull in me.

I had another person come up and chat for a while. Not a type I would have predicted to be so enthused and supportive about my trip, but he was. Thanks dude, I needed any and every motivation that day.

Next stop. Encino. That burger had been utilized and I needed something quick, sugary and calorie loaded. While not very PRO, I destroyed three candy bars while waiting again for my left had to regain function.

More cool people encounters at that store. The girl at the register shot off a genuine set of 20 questions with a quickness and was very very nice with her well wishes. A pair of state troopers were also impressed and cool to chat with.

Encino though, was where I started to be concerned about my hands and feet. It was low 40s, not below freezing, so I was not concerned about frostbite. I was conerned about the combination of cold and wet over such a prolonged time making my skin pretty raw, like enough to start bleeding. I had some small spots, but I only had 50 miles to go, so I got back on it.

I leave Encino tired, cold, but determined.

Fifteen miles out of Encino I am tired, cold, with a flat, pissed, worried, but still determined.

Yup, my first flat. Now it is easy to assume a flat is no big deal, and in most situations thats true.

I detail how because it takes the embarrassment out of me admitting that I was legitimately scared, sad, and furious.

To fix a flat, you have to stop. Well, considering the wind, rain, and temperature, stopping on the road can lead to the cold experience of hypothermia.

Not having fully functioning/sensing fingers made changing the tube and feeling for the cause a challenge.

When I found the cause, it uped the stakes again.

A tiny shard of rock from the road material had sliced through my tire. The problem was, my entire bike and all my clothes were covered with this coarse, sand-like, shard containing stuff.

I had to use one of my reserve base layers to clean the tire, wheels and myself. At this point, it was worth being careful.

I got that new tube in, and hit the road hoping all was fixed.

I was pretty worried those first few miles, but it held.

It held, but 10 minutes after the first flat, I got a second flat on the other wheel...

I cursed, I cursed with real sincerity.

I lost my marbles for those few seconds while slowing down, but as soon as I dismounted, I got right back to work. I find the culprit. It is shard of rock exactly like the first. Man...

I did the complicated tire change again and got back on.

Now I am starting to think it is not luck or normal probability working here. I begin to think that the material used in this section is just murder to bike tires in the wet. I often noticed how road construction and material changed from county to county and depending on the category of road.

I only brought two tubes. I figured that I would patch most punctures, and save the new tubes for valve failures or a catastrophic cut.

I did not foresee using the new tubes like this, but it was the practical thing to do.

I don't know if I could have had a patch stick without some sort of shelter from the wind and rain.

So it pretty much came down to luck in the next 25 miles. That was the distance to where I would have options for shelter at walkable intervals.

I was nervous. I really did not want to have to call someone. I contemplated possiblity of hitching a ride to the next store if I had to.

It turned out alright. I reached the outskirts of Edinburg without a flat. A lot hurts at this point. When you reach a urban area, there are way more stops. It was the starts that would make the knee scream. I had plenty of energy since I was so close, but the pain was not cool.

The streets were near flooded and hide contours of the street. Twice I nearly pinch flatted with some hard hits on tires with low-ish pressure.

Riding back in an urban area wasn't fun, but riding by the old campus (UTPA) was awesome.

It felt great, and I am glad I passed by, even with the traffic.

I was about 20 feet from turning into my neighborhood when I starting having a crazy 3 second accelerated trip through human emotions. I cant describe it. I can say it was weird and extremely awesome.

I roll up to my house.

It just happened that my little sister had just gotten home. I handed her my camera to start snapping pics.

I think my brother saw us through his window, and he got my dad to meet me outside. I had decided during the ride that I would dedicate it to him.

He was pretty shocked, but got to it. He asked, where did you ride in from, I told him Austin, he laughed and hugged me.

At this point I feel mostly relieved and cold.

Step one was the gloves. Honestly, I was worried to see what could be under there, but it wasn't that bad.

My feet were ok too and I went to the restroom to get the rest off. My sister got a bunch of towels warm in the dryer and I sat and warmed up for a while.

My mom wasn't home when I arrived, but was home soon and could not believe I went through with it.

Pretty soon it was all food, beer and story sharing.

Now nourished with alcohol and teriyaki, I began reveling my experience and accomplishment.

I wouldn't have had it any other way. I would not trade those flats or pains for anything. They, along with every instance and obstacle made the experience rich, intense, and fulfilling.

The knee pain stuck around that night, but was it was replaced with tendonitis in my left Achilles.

Five days later, I still can't ride. Im guessing its gonna be another five days till I'm ready to go. Still soooooooooo worth it.

I have a new understanding and appreciation of the words we use to describe and evaluate life's experience. I have made some amendments to my understanding of life and my philosophies.

What's next? I'm not sure, but this was awesome. I can see a more relaxed tour out west, or a bike-packing adventure near town.

Why and how?

2009-12-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

I've long wanted to do a tour. Friends have done Texas 4000. As a cyclist, is just something that becomes appealing. When I did the Hugel, It was epic, but also stoked the fire for something bigger. Bigger is 300+ miles from my birthtown (Austin) to my hometown (Mcallen). It is something I have thought about for quite a while. It is not a big tour of any sort, but for various and sundry reasons, it is something I need. I've planned for two day and three day options. I am ready for this. I have done my homework. I have family and friends that will come to my help if need be...crazy people.

Funny way how this came up.

Being a carless freak, my Christmas homecoming depended on me finding a ride home who has room for a bike (Id go nuts without one). I told my mom about this, and she said, "just ride your bike home". She was joking. Really, really joking. For some reason. Well...for many reasons actually, it struck a serious cord. I knew that this was the time for me to do this.

Bike tour

2009-12-14T11:19:00.000-08:00

I plan to leave tomorrow for a tour to my hometown. 300 miles. Two or three days of riding.

Should be epic, could change my life.

Another bike post

2009-12-08T07:23:00.000-08:00

Let me just say...I have no idea why mountain biking is not more popular with young people in this city. I mean...come on! Nothing against the old schoolers out there still doing it, actually, much respect. A nice used hardtail can be had for a good price on CL. The greenbelt is amazing. There is way more out there than you would expect. Technicality is fun!!!

So now then.

My bike sensei was a big advocate of the 29r format. He got himself a fisher rig and really liked how it rode out there on the belt. He said it smoothed out the ride, gave great grip, and climbed well.

I ended up getting a Raleigh XXIX. Yup, one of the least expensive 29rs out there. It is a great frame. The dudes at twentynineinches.com were big fans of it. Double butted 4130 cro-mo, S bend stays, ovalized downtube, socket dropouts, eccentric BB.

Fork: Reba Race (has the remote lockout)

Wheels: American Classic 29 SS. Very light, and impressively strong.

Tires: Kenda John Tomac Small Block 8. Light and fast rolling, but not great grip in the greenbelt.

Cranks: Bontrager race lite SS. I like this guy because I paid a crazy low price on closeout, and it has an ISIS BB. Yea I know external is stiffer and what not, but the bearings are also much more exposed and torque-spec sensitive. ISIS has a nice big spindle, and keeps the bearing seals out of the elements.

Pedals: Xpedo M-Force. Lighter than XTR, cheaper, and shed mud perfectly.

Bars: Kore Elite. Kore makes great stuff, check them out. This guy is crazy light and stiff.

Stem: Thomson Elite X4. An engineering and fabrication masterpiece. There is much more expensive, but not better.

Grips: ODI Cush

Brakes: Magura BAT Louise Carbon. The best brakes I have had experience with. The 5 year leak-proof warranty is holding well into year three. The power and modulation is exactly what I like. I have never had to bleed for reasons other than housing cuts. The mineral oil does not absorb water like DOT fluid does, and it is not toxic. I have had some nice falls on the levers too, they are solid. These brakes are very impressive.

Headset: Cane Creek Solos. Their first attempt at challenging King. Im satisfied.

Post: Thomson Elite. An engineering and fabrication masterpiece. There is much more expensive, but not better.

Saddle: WTB knows whats up with off road saddles. Rocket V Team is my choice, but they have a ton of saddles and shops sometimes have test saddle kits.

My bike

2009-12-06T07:49:00.000-08:00

My time at Discovery/Big wheel Cycles resulted in a bizarre bike philosophy.

Lets start with the frame.

Gunnar Roadie Custom: OX Platinum OS2 tube set, Henry James stainless dropouts

Steel is Indeed real, but I'm not one of those dudes who would hunt down some "wicked" retro/Italian bike. Modern steel and welding is great stuff, plain and simple. The Surly pacer I rode for a long time was also great frame, and is still on the road.

Drive train:

Nine speed son. It shifters better than ten and the chain is less prone to breakage.

Shimano Dura-Ace are the goods. I'm not a fan of shimano off road (Cross/MTB), but on the road, it is the best in my experience. A lot of the performance I get out of the drive train is due to my downtube shifters. Not a lot of people run these shifters on modern/race builds, but my introduction to them was kind of an accident. On my first road bike, my right shifter failed and the head mechanic at my shop suggested I give a indexed downtube shifter a try.

I was amazed.
Here's the deal. There are much less moving parts and less cable and housing (friction) with a DT setup. This gives you quick, "positive" feeling, and accurate shifting.

Also, it is very nice to be able to go anywhere on the cassette in one movement.

Ok lets see what other goofy stuff we have going on here (above).

Nokon housing. Real geek stuff. Stuff is light, compression-less and great for tight routing.

Cables. PowerCordz... Yea I'm serious. Hey give me a break, when I was in a shop, I had the awesome opportunity to tryout new products and correspond with manufactures.

Are they super-crazy-not-so-smart expensive? Yes, but they are also completely stretch proof, giving you better accuracy/precision in shifting and better modulation in braking.

Cassette: Dura-ace. Best.

Chain: KMC X9 SL. Thing is light, gold, and shifts great.

Ok, up to the cockpit.

Levers: Cane creek. Comfortable grip and a good match for my calipers.

Bar: Deda Newton. The finest aluminum bar on the market. I am against carbon bars. Even many of the cool guys (pros) stay with aluminum.

Stem: Thomson Elite X2. An engineering and fabrication masterpiece. There is much more expensive, but not better.

What do we have here:

Calipers: Cane creek SL. Well forged, stiff arms. Titanium used for hardware and pivots. Light, powerful and affordable.

Somebody get this man a cable end...

Headset: King. Thing is like 5 years old and has been on two bikes...so far. Works like day one.

Fork: Bontrager XXX Lite. Kinda unexpected? I was lucky to run into this guy on a manufacture closeout. Here's my deal. I trust carbon as a material for fork blades, but not in the steerer/upper crown of forks. This guy has a alloy steerer. Another fork I really like is the Alpha Q CS-10, which has a OX platinum steerer.

Crank: Truvativ Rouleur OCT. The best value/performance for me. Has a nice external bearing setup. Arms are hollow aluminum. Well machined rings. If I had to replace it (don't think its made now) I would go for a Sram rival or one of the slightly older (and discounted) Dura-Ace.

Pedals: Expedo R-Force. One of the very few one sided, spd-cleat, road pedals.
Very light (Ti body/hollow spindle) and low stack.

Seating:

Post: Thomson Elite. An engineering and fabrication masterpiece. There is much more expensive, but not better.

Saddle: Another experiment. Tioga Spider. This thing a super light, but my friends thought it would not be worth it in comfort. It is surprisingly comfortable. The webbed design conforms to you and smooths bumps well. It is not very expensive because it is not carbon fiber. It is a carbon-resin composite of sorts. Basically a plastic material with carbon fiber-like shreds/particles mixed in.

Important, but not really cool to look at, Tires: Kenda Calientes are very light and well made for a great price.

Ok. Last and least, my wheels. Mavic Ksyrium Elite. Yea, they are nice wheels, but not my ideal. I'm a standard rim/spoke/nipple kind of guy. I really liked my American Classic Sprint 350s, maybe Ill try and find another set sometime.

So that's my road vehicle.

2009-12-04T13:35:00.000-08:00

Wish I could have seen Busta with LONS during this time. WOW.

DIY shoe repair

2009-11-30T19:47:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time...

I ripped the SOUL off of my shoe.

These are nice shoes, I like them.

In the spirit of Bob Villa, I went to Home Depot and checked out the glues with fancy pants.

I settled on some quick setting epoxy.

It went like this:

Effectiveness/efficiency report soon.

2009-11-23T17:13:00.000-08:00

as problematic as human life is, in the end, it is worth it, it is unique and amazing

2009-11-19T16:13:00.001-08:00

2009-11-18T08:16:00.000-08:00

Yup. Even a little classic house. The kind with vocals and instruments. Killer vibraphone action in this one.

Tour Das Hugel...

2009-11-15T20:03:00.000-08:00

...is basically, "something else".

I woke at 5:30 that morning.

I did my usual routine, but packed extra supplements and what not.

When I get there, I am blown away by the amount and diversity of starters.

A carbon Pinarello with super 11, a sweet 84'ish Pinarello, a recumbent, mountain bikes, hybrids, a pair of rando bikes, even a tandem or two.

I was lucky to run into AS, before the start.

He and I had never attempted the TdH nor a century ride.

We admitted our nervousness, but also psyched-up each other about the glory of finishing.

The start was a familiar one, we headed out to 360 via rolling wood.

Before hitting the bridge, we take a right turn on to westlake, and the fun starts.

Toro canyon, High rd., Terrace Mtn. These are things my buddy MC introduced me to a while ago on my first real hill ride. Thanks dude.

At about mile 16 we have our first rest stop. Impressive stuff. The back of the car was stuffed with everything you could need.

Citrus, pickles, bananas, Clif bars, electrolyte drinks, PB&J, and most importantly, supporters.

These people were great. Fantastic in their food and moral support.

After that stop we head out on bee caves to put some miles in, and luckily we headed out on the Cuernavaca loop. If you haven't been, its beautiful. No serious hills, nice windy roads with great scenery and awesome trees.

Barton creek was the next major hill, and great girl-scout supported stop was waiting for us.

Lost creek was the last hill on the first lap, and we headed back to the start/finish.

Plenty of people had the goal of doing the first lap, and called it a day. Some people realized a second lap was just not going to happen for them, and they left with more hunger for next year. Some people said "well I've gone this far, might as well keep on goin". Yes, that was a Forrest Gump reference.

Heading out on Stratford, we headed to Mt. Bonnell along scenic drive.

Ahh, Mt. B.

Familiar grounds. I have ridden with folks out here many times. I did repeats on it to train. It felt great.

Next, we headed to Laderna Norte.

I was introduced to this bad boy just as I was committing to do this thing. When I did Laderna for the first time, It hit me how crazy, and crazy cool the Hugel may be. Thanks CC.

They did pull a quick one on us though, we didn't just go straight up Laderna. We first went down below it to meet this absolute beast of a side street called Smokey Valley. This thing is straight mental. It is short, but maxing out at 25% gradient made some people dismount for the first time. I overhead a person telling their riding partner, "that's it, I'm out, I got off...". Now, that is not any official rule. That was his personal decision based on a personal goal. More on that later.

Right after that, you are basically in the middle of LN and its go time. It was very tough pulling those two hills. Very tough.

The third stop was soon after at a awesome supporter's home. Again, all the good stuff you need to live through the odyssey.

I think this was where we joined a gang of woolly mammoth riders. The team is made up of a few current/ex messengers and a couple other weirdos (in the good way).

We hit 360 again to get out to the Beauford and Courtyard hills. I don't remember which one it was, but one of the roads was in the process of repavement. EDIT: A commenter noted that Beauford has been in this textured state for the past 2-3 years and not being repaved. It was highly textured and was tough, tough climb. That type of surface make it feel like your power is going nowhere.

Riverplace was the last hill before rest stop number four.

This place was more like a rest resort.

In addition to what was at the other awesome stops, this one had potato wedges, a ton of water melon, many chairs, plenty shade, and the pickle juice guy.

------------

Improv Product Review: Pickle Juice Sport

Photo from Drumsing's photostream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21815235@N00/

Many people have heard that pickle juice prevents/stops cramping. Its the sodium and electrolytes and such.

Well, an enterprising young man took the idea and formulated a impressively palatable pickle sports drink.

These drinks have around 15 times the electrolytes/minerals (salt, potassium, zinc) of most "sports drinks".

At some point I did feel a mouse running around in my right thigh, but I gave this stuff a try and it was gone pretty soon. I'm pretty sure I drank three bottles of that stuff on Saturday. The guys I was riding with also drank the stuff and were impressed that it really did stop a starting cramp, or prevented them from cramping when they normally would have.

I have to say, I am sold. I'll be glad to buy this Texas company's drink.

Also, the rep/owner? of PJ sport was a very cool dude.

He'd make sure he found a nice cold one and got that bad boy opened with bartender-like speed and agility.

He ran around picking up people's empties and offered smaller to-go bottles just in case you ran into trouble before the next stop.

------------

Then it was out to Mansfield dam. We went cyclo-crossing on some weird path under a bridge to a low water crossing that apparently can flash flood at anytime without warning.

We took RM 620 back to the rest resort. It was a long, but not so steep hill.

Photo from Drumsing's photostream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/21815235@N00/

More food, more PJ sport.

I was worried about overdoing the PJ, but it turns out I would be pretty helpful on the next hill.

At the top of a smaller hill, N and I kinda got the ants in the pants. Our group was separating pretty often now, so we decided to go on and finish the last two.

Big view was pretty bad. At 88 miles we descended a few hundred feet only to u-turn at the bottom. At the bottom, there is a pretty clear view of street and you could see the insane grade. I had a flash of fear, but there was no way I was going to go this far and quit. Id say it was the hardest one of them all due to the miles already covered, the gradient/length, and the mental aspect of being able to see almost the entire climb from the bottom. The other hills did not have a view like that.

Alright, now all we have is "just" jester...

Jester at mile 93 sounds pretty tough. It was tough, but N and I were pretty amped at this point. Also we had some cool supporters cheering us on on the final climb. It also didn't hurt that there was a photographer it one of the tougher sections. A camera lens focused on you can feel like a supplement.

Previous three pictures from Onefiftyfour's photostream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/onefiftyfour/

Whoa...WHOA...WHOA!

I get a little chill.

I can really smell that fresh screen-print paint on the Hugel shirt now.

All we have is 360, which does have the bee caves hill, which is a little somethin' somethin'.

We didn't baby our way home. We both felt good and excited about getting back and finishing. I have a real love for the stretch of 360 that we took to get back, and we rode strong all the way till the end.

Beer time. I run to a store on Barton springs road to get a Modelo and some cash for the shirt donation.

The rest of the crew shows up one by one with smiles.

We hang out and sit on a guardrail and chat about the day for a bit. Never did a guardrail feel so much like a lay-z-boy.

Pretty soon, it was all "great riding with you" and "cya later".

I ride home, making a day total of 130 miles.

Before passing out around 9pm, I chatted with family and friends about my day and started trying to shrink my Hugel shirt a bit. I also finished leftovers from my pre-Hugel dinner.

Now to some random thoughts about the ride, or that came to me during the ride.

I liked how the ride made for many different possible goals for different people.

Some looked for lap one and nothing more.

Some wanted to simply finish the whole deal somehow.

Some wanted to finish first.

Everyone had the choice of how to make their sundae.

I made mine without changing the bike (gears) for the ride's challenges. I decided to not walk at any point, and do every one straight up, with no zig zagging. That is how I wanted it, and I got it.

I really really hope that gentleman that hit the wall on smokey valley gets his sundae next year.

Ok I have a few people to thank for sure. My various riding partners of course. The cycling and non-cycling people that dared me / encouraged me / pushed me / taunted me to do this challenge. The people that put this mental thing on including all support people. The gang I rode with that day. The fellas at the bike shop that introduced me to this wide world of cycling and enabled me to learn so much about bikes and the cycling life. My bike performed excellently and safely because of what I learned. I saw a few people have problems that had them come to stops.

Now to reflect how my cycling life has come to this. As a tri-cyclist (road,mtb,cross), I learned skills that really helped me complete this. My road biking gave me endurance and form. My SS mountain biking gave me power and taught me how important it is to get "on top" of your gear and never stop cranking. Cross taught me how to suffer while delivering.

In the end, I will concluded that the Tour Das Hugel was a life changing/affirming event. If not the Das Hugel, make sure you do things in your life that combine a serious physical/mental challenge. You will feel the edge, you will forget all else in the world, you will feel very very human.

Hugel DONE.

2009-11-14T16:32:00.000-08:00

More later

It is 5:47am November 14 2009

2009-11-14T03:48:00.000-08:00

Right now I am drinking coffee and preparing for the Tour das Hugel. What did I get myself into??? I will tell you in due time.

Ridin bikes

2009-11-13T06:53:00.000-08:00

The day started off with visit to the bridge.

My ride was fun and strong, but flatted on barton spring road.

No biggie. I patched it and checked my front tire for glass and such. I didnt find any glass, but I found a fatal tear in the sidewall.

The tube was peeking out.

I have my post ride beer and call up D-town to see if he wants to go hit the greenbelt.

He did, and it went something like this:

Then a little social cycling

360

2009-11-12T05:47:00.000-08:00

Once a day keeps the chasing group away...

A real deal race report

2009-11-11T13:25:00.000-08:00

So ya, the Derby was hoping to go on, but It was realized around 2pm that it was just not gonna happen.

The cancellation was announced and I went hard to work on a flyer...

Despite the late call, we still had a good crowd.

EI raised the spectator bar to a crazy level.

He brought the crowd a case of Victoria beer imported from Mexico itself.

On top of that, he offered to keep track of the racers which allowed this dude right here to race.

Alright, lets get on with the report.

Barriers were back in action. This time they were placed in a slow section just after a pair of mud crossings.

We did the le mans style start with D-town calling a surprise "go".

I'm of the opinion that a strong start is crucial in a cross race.

I'd like to think I have a pretty good one. Ive noticed I have a bit of an usual mount. Most do a few short steps and jump on. I seem to run a whole lot more to a higher speed before mounting. Anyhow it seems to work.

Yesterday was my first race on new tires. Both were skinny and fast rolling Michelins. And by skinny and fast I really mean sketchy, a little loose, and FAST.

Big EC also has a killer start. He and I went real hot on the first half lap. With the new tires and good start, I had some fun drift action going.

The first time under the bridge was surprising. I was expecting it to be much more soft, so I took it easy to spy the line.

At this point EC and I were together with a nice gap until 3rd.

At the start of the third lap, I noticed B's light was getting way too close for my comfort. Coming off a couple seconds rest behind EC, I went for an attack on the straight section before the bridge section.

It came time to test that line. I went under the bridge pretty hot cutting that column sharp.

I hate (kinda) to blow my horn, but I own that section.

Coming off the section I look back to see EC dropping off and that B wasn't able to cover the attack.

I was really hurting after turning off the burners. Passing by the start/finish, I yell out to EI "how much time". He yells "16".

Man...still half the race to go, and I feel that if I don't hold this attack, B or EC would have a good chance at popping me at the line or the final straight.

I dig down. I've been in this position once before at a Tuesday nighter.

It is not easy keeping a fast pace with no one to chase, but I feed on my desire to not only win, but win convincingly.

With every lap, my gap grew a little till the end. It was a good victory.

EC was very gracious. Hes a good dude. He is most definitely an OG in the alley cross world.

Ive been doing these things since last winter with BDs races. EC was one of the first "serious" racers to add more legitimacy to urban cyclo-cross in Austin. His murderous rampage got guys like me really excited about cross. Chasing him made me faster, taught me a lot, and made my introduction to "legit" cross races less of a shock.

Respect EC, respect.

Podium:
1st - The bum
2nd - EC
3rd - DS

Product Review - FlashBak

2009-11-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

Do you know what cool people do?

They make cool, smart, and innovative bike products.

That is what Mr. Brad Beneski did. I met Brad at the social cycling rides. He always had some snack (frozen grapes!!!) in his rear rack and always up for a fun ride.. Soon, I noticed his new invention. The FlashBak.

Check out this link for some background on the man and the story behind FlashBak:

http://austinontwowheels.org/2009/08/11/bike-industry-profile-brad-beneski-of-flashbak/

When I saw this revolutionary (really it is) light system, it just made sense.

Versatility: The four alligator clips and a separate battery unit are awesome. The clips make it possible to mount it to a back pack, pannier, or right on your jersey. The battery unit can be placed in a jersey pocket or back pack pocket.

Amber light: In chatting with Brad, he told me how optometry studies show that amber is much more visible than red. Why are bike lights red? I dunno, but I'm guessing it is simple tradition. People figure whats good for cars is good for bikes. Ya I know the law says "red", but I understand Brad looked into this and was reassured that this technicality would not be a problem. Amber makes sense.

Beyond visibility, I think there is another advantage to amber light. Call me weird (it happens all the time), but I think people may react differently to different colors. I think amber is simply a less disruptive/annoying/aggressive color, and that it may affect the actions of drivers.

Lights: There are a ton of VERY bright LED's on this bad boy. Ive seen a trend it commuter lights where the concentration is on one very very bright LED with a fancy pants lens on it. Depending on how well its mounted/worn sometimes your 1 watt of power is going into the ground or is being used to signal aliens.

You know who you are...

Simple is better sometimes. These LED are on a fabric strip that is flexible and conforms to your body/backpack. This make is so the LEDs are basically shining many various directions.

I also really like the unique hiccup pattern of the flash, and I'm sure it helps with visibility to some degree.

Remote control: Never ask "is my light on". Never try shining your light at the ground to see if its on.

The remote on/off button can be put somewhere easily accessible and visible to the rider.

I've seen/tried quite a few lights in my time.

I can say with confidence, this is the best light yet.

Buy one here: http://flashbakonline.com/

Or East Side Pedal Pushers.

Here...we...go

2009-11-10T13:42:00.000-08:00

I solemnly swear to give at least a 3/4ers-assed attempt at keeping this thing rolling.

Now then, with all apologies in place, lets continue.

Lets go back in time to the breaking' in of the dirt derby.

'Twas ladies night.

They advertised that any dudes that suffered the trials and tribulations of racing in women's cl0thes would have free race entry.

Since we are poor, and can be described as "something else", me and D-town got down with the drag. D looked very much like daisy from "dukes", and I went classy with my LittleBlackDress.

Nothing says class like chugging a beer and stuffing the can in your top...

The dress performed well. Pulled a 2nd and a 4th place in the races that night.

At the time, I thought we were being kinda subversive, but it turned out our antics were entertaining, and well received. Awesome!

Next week the derby was rained out, and the first OG Kross event went down.

That race was memorable in that JM blew me out of the water (super impressive mid attack), and I broke B for the first time.

JM carried that good ride on over to the TXBRA Wurst cross race where he took a sick 4th in a deep field.

That day I felt like all the boogers I usually store in my nose, migrated to my lungs, big whoop, I'm not a wiener like Mark Cavendish.

I rode hard, a little stupid, but learned a whole lot and had a great time.

I learned that gloves are a very good idea, and that sometimes you have to sacrifice a little air pressure for a very bumpy course.

The race was fun all around, costumes, great bbq, beer, and a nice course with a run along the comal(?) river.

Ok, now were back at the derby.

This was the day we realized we were not cross outlaws, but cross explorers.

Last time was the first DD hand-down, and this time I managed the first hand-up which seemingly opened up a flood gate of beer hand-ups,downs,and sideways'.

Alright, awesome!

And then...
Another derby first!

How?

Well, there were some deep ruts out on the course. It was not a well lit area, but I knew they were there. At some point, I saw a opportunity to pass. Instinct took over, and I neglected my brain telling me that I can't pass if I crash...
Not smart, but more learned.

Because it was a first, Matt at Hammer Head bicycles offered to do the build for free. Very cool guys, very cool.

Because I had ants in my pants, as well as a rim and hub in waiting, I got around to building a front wheel.

I had delayed building it because the particular spoke length needed is very hard to find, at least in the particular spoke I prefer. In fact, I think they are out of production.

On a whim I decided to start calling shops to see if they would have this 276mm double butted spoke. I call BSS first. They have been around for a while and are enormous. They had it....

Crazy.

It was an older box for sure. Im familiar with the past few years of boxes, this one was a little older.

Very cool. Time to build functional art.

That wheel was a world series baby.

Here is Matts art: I reused my hub and had another rim in waiting.

See this hub? It has a billion miles on it. Its been on three bikes, it rolls as smooth as day one. It is a DT Swiss 340. I can recommend this hub.

Whoa! We are caught up it seems. Had a great ride out to 360. Man, fall in Austin is some quality conditions.

Thy neighbor's greatest playlist

2009-11-08T00:24:00.000-08:00

2009-11-08T00:20:00.000-08:00

correction, this cover is of "I get around" by 2pac.

Interesting...

I really feel like it, I do, It will happen

2009-11-07T12:26:00.000-08:00

Another studio thing-a-ma-bob

still not feeling like it

2009-11-05T16:20:00.000-08:00

I am a fan of "studio recording" videos.

Dam sam...

2009-11-04T08:50:00.000-08:00

Shits been crazy in this bum's life lately, in all areas.

I blew the hell out of a wheel at last night's dirt derby. Not going to cost much because it seems there are cool people.

Shit is worthy of a mad post, we will see if I can get rolling on this thing like I used to.

Until then, make sure you have a 20 hz capable system/headphone to fully enjoy:

Still being lame...

2009-11-01T22:09:00.000-08:00

Got a camera.
Still dont know how to really use it.
Not riding as much and/or hard as I want to, and at times, really feel like.

I need to get in the greenbelt soon, like tomorrow.

2009-11-01T12:34:00.001-08:00

WurstCross-O-Ween

2009-10-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

Damn son, my first TXBRA sanctioned cyclocross event.

I am really excited to see the course, the racers, the brats, and the beer.

http://www.txbra.org/db/events/2009Wurstcross.pdf

2009-10-27T16:12:00.001-07:00

2009-10-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

For various and sundry reasons, my boiler has be mega-stoked

2009-10-27T14:17:00.001-07:00

Watch out for this guy.

Race Report

2009-10-26T03:27:00.000-07:00

No, not the DD one. I mean its been like a week, who gives a rodent's behind.

Ok, so I did a 7 lap/42 mile circuit race back "home".

If you don't know me, you might not understand what a weird kind of racer (ok person) I am.

Do not assume I am some super-duper serious dork racer boi.

I am a cyclist that likes going fast and racing, but not at the expense of having a good time while doing it or in my non-cycling life.

That is why I will be able to laugh hysterically at these pictures now, and probably way more in the future.

(Photos by Daniel L. ThyNeighborsBike, CLICK for other pics)

I think there is a serious picture somewhere, but it is probably hiding.

Ok now to the horrible, horrible details.

Started off nice and relaxed. The pace increased after about a mile, and the first attack soon after that. In small open category races, a early attack sometimes is simply to weed out people.

At the beginning of the second lap, two small groups tried a break, but were reeled in quick.

Towards the end of the second lap, a group of five went for it. I was in position to chase if I wanted, but I decided not to.

I figured it was way to early to hold a break till the end.

Well, I was wrong.

Those five apparently worked together very well. Two of the five were dropped from the break by the end of the 5th lap, but others ended in a sprint.

On the other hand, the peloton never worked together.

I tried talking to people, but it just didn't happen.

That was some serious strategy and cooperation fellas, nice work.

I figure, oh well, I'll go for good finish in the group.

On the last lap, the pace got hot on this nice curve. So nice, that I cramped up the hammies.

Both of them.

Now, I have cramped up crazy after a race, but never during. It was not cool.

Overall, good stuff. Good competition, and lessons learned.

more coal in the boiler...

Race

2009-10-23T05:11:00.000-07:00

Going to my ex-home for a little racing.

It is always very weird racing down there. It seems like everyone has affiliations, even the Cat 7's

They take cycling "differently" there. I was going to use "seriously", but differently really is more appropriate.

I hope my occasional lack of etiquette does not get me scolded again this time.

Thy Neighbor's DD thoughts and pictures

2009-10-21T20:14:00.000-07:00

Here is what you do.

Make sure you read all the directions before beginning.

1. Go here: http://www.thyneighborsbike.com/?p=2124
2. Read text and browse pictures
3. Blow those pics up, they are good ones.
4. Come Back here sometime soon to get a race report of sorts.
5. Enjoy life.

Dirt Derby

2009-10-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

Ya M'on.

Was a good time.

I managed to "keep it real".....

And it did not go wrong.

It went pretty well. 2nd place in the first race and 4th in the second.

My headset is f-bomba'd.

Ill be stealing (with total disregard for intellectual property rights) pictures from thyneighbor soon.

Or ill just send you his way.

Either way, its gonna be awesome.

You know, with this weather I could be down for a race this evening.

Chasing the rabbit

2009-10-20T04:50:00.000-07:00

Time to get racin.

Looks like its dry enough for a cross race at the derby this week...

Ya, its weird, but it is supposed to read like that.

http://dirtderby.com/

Who knows, I might have a great time getting kicked out for a beer hand down.

Photo, and origin of the beer hand-down philosophy from www.allhailtheblackmarket.com

I promise

2009-10-19T15:37:00.001-07:00

to get a camera soon.

P-Funk

2009-10-16T14:50:00.000-07:00

I have no idea how I had not run into this song until 5 min ago.

Bernie, that board cried.

2009-10-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

I love 360. 60s and drizzle this morning. Amazing.

The alternative becomes the real deal...

2009-10-14T05:20:00.000-07:00

So when D and I (mostly D) starting knocking around this idea of holding home grown cross races, the idea was to provide a replacement for when the Derby gets canceled.

A funny thing happened after the first two weeks of doin' this 'thang...

I started hoping for the derby to get canceled.

We've got some serious cross fun and racin' going on here folks.

Thy Neighbor's Alleycats are amazing.

Where to start?

Location! It has been actually possible and safe to "ride to race". I have much fun meeting up and riding out to the courses.

Straight chillin' atmosphere. Im the type of crosser that likes to drink beer before (and maybe even during) racing. Thats just me.

Heres a biggie... Ability to ride in the rain/mud. You know, I think its kinda goofy that races have been canceled because of rain. I kinda thought that was part of the game/fun, or thats what the internet has tricked me into believing. Hey, I know it is the characteristics of the venue, but maybe its time for a change.

The mud makes for so much damn fun and creates some real technicality. Last night, the mud pits (yes multiple...like THREE) were changing character every single lap. You really had to be on your toes to make it through there with speed.

Cost: 5 bones or donation of a bike related item to the prize pool. Thats some serious value.

Competition. The spectrum is run out there. It is amazing. It is the most sweetly painful 35 minutes of feeling very alive.

I just feels right.

keep checking or bugging Thy Neighbor for his rundown and amazing pictures.

Thy Neighbors AlleyCross IS Austin cyclo-cross

2009-10-13T21:43:00.000-07:00

I said it.

Old Saddle, New Saddle.

2009-10-13T08:52:00.000-07:00

I have been not looked forward to this day.

I am shelving a old friend.

Even worse, it is an old friend gifted to me by an old friend.

Here it what it looked like just after picked:

Selle San Marco Aspide Arrowhead gel

Mr. MA, my bike wrench/philosophy sensei, gave me me this saddle quite a few years ago. Man I hate to think, but maybe 4-5. Thanks man, she has served me very very well.

It was my first real deal well made race worthy saddle.

I loved it from day one.

It has been on 3 bikes. Two road bikes and a cross bike.

I was impressed how it held up to my cross remount learning curve.

I have progressed much on this saddle, put thousands of miles on this saddle, suffered on this saddle, and been filled with joy on this saddle.

Call me a weirdo, but I kinda have a connection with this saddle.

Big thanks to D-Bone for his photo skills.
Plug: He is now doing quinceaneras.

She is not dead yet. I've rubbed through some sections and gel is starting to peek out.

I figured she should go out in style. Maybe a long/foreign bike tour. Maybe She will make an appearance for a big race, if they ever allow me in one...

Here is my new throne:

2009-10-10T15:55:00.000-07:00

Sometimes cyclists are seen as opponents/players/challengers on the roads. They are lifes. Lifes with important connections. yieldtolife.org

This girl no longer has her most important connections.

Photo by: Tom Reel/Express-News

http://blogs.mysanantonio.com/weblogs/veronicaflores/2009/10/bicyclists-on-the-road-treated.html

Don't waste time arguing amongst the choir. Engage your non cycling friends. It does not need to be cycle-centric, it should simply be people-centric.

Giro extras

2009-10-05T21:28:00.000-07:00

Cool pics from a friend.

Now that I can count my chicken, I'd like to share why this helmet is important to me.

This bad boy came back with me from Sorrento Italy. Me and my brother spent a day hunting down a bike shop. We did this with four Italian words and a sense of adventure. We hopped on a city bus, got help from nice folks, and walked endlessly, but we found it.

I knew before the trip, my one big ticket item would be a helmet. I saw this guy and it caught my eye. It is a Carrera, a Italian brand I had never seen. It incorporates aluminum somehow in its construction. And its got spoilers just like those cool fast and the furious cars.

Here is the catch. We were on a serious time constraint. We were in Sorrento as a day trip as part of a cruise. So to get back on the ship, we had to be back for the bus.

Seeing as how we got lucky with the bus situation, we figured our best bet was to walk it out.

Well, it was more like a power walk. The nice thing about the place was the intense signage. Most corners had a ton of arrow signs, and town center was always there. We made it back quicker than it took to get out there in the first place.

So ya. I was pretty bummed till I found out she was safe.

I hope I dont forget this lesson.

Giro d Ghetto - Stage 6 - FIN!!!!!!!!

2009-10-05T04:13:00.000-07:00

Stage 6 - Flat TT

So...

I start getting my things together for the final race, and I cant find my helmet...

I realize that I must have left it at the bar after stage 5. I was kinda bummed that I got drunk (enough) to pull some beginner stuff like that.

I call Liberty and see if they have it. No dice. I even went by to go look under the tables in the back. No dice.

I call thyneighbor and ask (through tears) if he has a helmet I could borrow. Yes dice.

I go out there pretty early after cruising by the liberty. I sit and finish drying my eyes.

Soon enough, the big W shows up to my surprise/horror.

I relay my helmet saga to him. I managed to hold back the tears, and W offered me a brew which also helped.

W is a class act and offered some awesome help. Thanks bud.

BD shows up. I ask him if anyone we were hanging out with mentioned a lost helmet. Yes dice!

A sweet samaritan saw it and picked it up. Thanks!!

Turns out the drinky drinky had nothing to do with it. I left it outside after race, but before the relaxin.

Now to the racin.

It was a good course that started out east near 183 and ended at creekside.

Lady luck wasnt on my side, and I dont even know what I placed in the stage, but I somehow managed to win....

2nd Place in the 2009 Giro d' Ghetto!!!

I am really really very very happy with this.

W simply murdered. The great thing is that he made everyone elevate their game. He did for me at least.

The variety and class of racer of this year's race was impressive and just awesome.

This race series has proved to be one of the coolest things I have done in this city.

Anyone who did all the races should feel a good amount of accomplishment. It was hard. It took commitment. We had fun on the bike. We had fun off the bike. Good stuff.

In talking to BD I learned he got some help making this great thing happen. Thanks folks!!!

This series has me feeling strong and has stoked the fire. This is good. I have a serious(ish) road race ill be going to when I visit my parents soon.

What a week.

Giro d Ghetto - Stage 5

2009-10-04T11:15:00.000-07:00

Long miles.

Here is my story, and I'm sticking to it.................because its actually true.

I left my house around 2pm that day. I had a few errands to do and was planning to hang out with a friend for a bit.

Basically, I ended up hanging out quite a bit and the rain started getting worse.

It was 7pm when I began talking myself out of going to the rain for practical and safety reasons.

I stalled.

730pm rolls around and thyneighbor calls and asks if im gonna make it out. I say im a toss up.

I was sure I didnt have time to go home and get my road bike. I really didnt want to risk crashing my road bike anyhow.

815pm comes up and I decide just to go out there on my cross bike in my commuting gear.

The course was nice. Some eastside action. Total millage was in the mid 30s.

In the first lap, W.1, R, and myself worked hard for some separation from the field.

It payed off. We remained a group of three till the end.

It was hard working together though. Conditions were gross. Drafting got you a face of road spray.

In the end, W.1 outkicked us. I ended up with second.

L-Dog

2009-10-03T08:29:00.000-07:00

Thats Big Tex on left and Steven Roche on right

That morning, I was texting thyneighbor talking about what the ride would be like.

He was thinking a casual stroll round the metro, I was feeling that it was gonna be a slight leg stretcher.

Since I have under-dressed before, I donned the roadie cyclist-way.

I was in luck, it was a formal affair after all.

We started at MJ's and rode east, heading out of town.

The statesman says around 100 people showed up.

Even in the city the pace was not exactly casual (for non-roadies).

We went out east heading towards the old Tuesday Nighter course. That is where lance did quite a bit of his training at some point.

Mr. Steven Roche is a class act. The man was greeting and chatting up any and everyone. Kinda hard to understand with the serious (and cool) accent, but he was nice and looked to be having a good time. Before today I wouldn't have been able to recognize him. I have heard him mentioned whenever a new Irishman comes to prominence.

Being on the old race course got people a little antsy in the pantsy. Some attacking and pace quickening went on. Good stuff. Riding pace with 2 cycling greats*, when is that gonna happen again?

People had been dropped throughout the ride. See D's account. hehe

The funny business on the nighter course whittled it down to 10-15 people finishing the 50 miles together.

Lance took off, but Mr. Roche hung around and did autographs.

*You can be great at something and still be a jerk or worse. Im just sayin...

This is in no way an endorsement

2009-10-02T04:47:00.000-07:00

Ride with Americas twitter sensation!!!!

Stage 4

2009-10-02T02:56:00.000-07:00

Fun stuff.

No stage podium, but I'm still tied for second in the GC with EC.

The knee felt good, but I am really glad there is a rest day Friday.

There was a mental bug that I couldn't shake.

During my knee testing, I managed to pull out of my pedal.

I increased the tension at home and even more at the race.

During my first race with a "serious" dude, he pulled out of his pedal at the start, and I pulled out like 20 feet after him.

It could be that I am twisting my foot unknowingly during these high torque situations.

In any event, I had just as much fun watching and cheering.

There was one slight-grudge (re)match. Amazing race. Closest race a human eye could possibly judge.

Saturday and Sunday are going to be important, and slightly more up my alley than the last 2 races.

Sure, a overall podium would be pretty bad ass, but I'm hungry for a stage now.

photo from www.thyneighborsbike.com ............................I promise.

2009-10-01T16:19:00.001-07:00

Guess whos back (3x)

Hey young world... the world is yours
Hey young world... the world is yours
Young world young world... the world is yours
Young wo-ah-huh-huh-huh-urld

This rap here... it may cause concern its
Broad and deep... why dont you listen and learn
Love mean happiness... that once was strong
But due to society... even thats turned wrong
Times have changed... and its cool to look bummy
And be a dumb dummy and disrespect your mummy
Have you forgotten... who put you on this earth?
Who brought you up right... and who loved you since your birth?
Reward is a brainwashed kid goin wild
Young little girls already have a child
Bad company... hey, now youve been framed
Your parents are hurting... hurting and ashamed
Youre ruining yourself... and your mommy cant cope
Hey, little kids dont follow these dopes
Heres a rule for the non cool... your life, dont drool
Dont be a fool like those that dont go to school
Get ahead... and accomplish things
Youll see the wonder and the joy life brings
Dont admire thieves... hey they dont admire you
Their times limited, hardrocks too
So listen, be strong, scream whoopee-doo
Go for yours, cause dreams come true
And youll make your mommy proud... so proud of you too
And this is a message... that the ruler rick threw
And its true

You know, you know what, you know what, you know what?
We like to party, like to party
(repeat 3x)

Hey young world, the world is yours
Hey young world

Yo peep this

Hey mr. bigshot... hey, dont you look fly?
But you dont have a nickle... ohhhh, my my my
Youve been fightin again and, you forgot why
Hey kid, walk straight, master your high
Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.... because you make your family cry
And all jokes aside, are you in good health?
Hey little boy... now have you really checked yourself?
Youre a disgust, you know someone that I cant trust, youd
Steal moms welfare... and youd run and buy some dust, and
Plus, a must so... bigshot youre not
Your friends are talkin and Im hearin that your girls are what?
You didnt know? go steal and rob
And while youre at it... go get a suit for a j-awhh-ob
You see youre actin like this urge is demandin
Cmon, wake up... have some understandin
Societys a weak excuse for a man
Its time for the brothers... rap is trying to take the stand
Believe it or not, the lord still shines on you deep
Guides you... and he watched you as you grew, plus
Past the age of... a little child, thats true
But folks your age dont act like you do, so
So be mature... and put the point to a halt
And if youre over eighteen... I wish youd act like an adult
Dont live in a world... of hate hate hate
Pull yourself together... and get yourself straight
Men dont steal... hey, most dont borrow
And if you smoke crack... your kidsll smoke crack tomorrow
So be more mature... and kids do your chores
Make your own money... hey, be proud thats yours
You know why, cause thats a man... thats brains no spite
Stayin out of trouble... when it comes in sight
And a man never loses a fight... in gods sight
Cause righteous laws are overdue
And this is a message that the ruler rick threw
And its true

You know, you know what, you know what, you know what?
We like to party, like to party
(repeat 3x)

Hey young world, the world is yours
Hey young world...

Yo peep this...
Mc... ricky... d...
The grand wizzard...
And his partner...
And his and his and his partner...
Say what?
La-di! da-di! la-di! da-di! (repeat 2x)
La-di-da-di...

2009-10-01T11:47:00.001-07:00

It seems to still work.

Not cool, not smart

2009-10-01T10:33:00.001-07:00

Got another injury to deal with.

After the race, a slow flat creeped up on me. Slow enough for me not to notice it before taking a sharp(ish) turn. Front wheel left me, and my right knee was utilized as a crumple zone.

It hurts.

Not bad enough for me to throw in the towel.

Yet.

I am a mere minutes away from taking my bike out for a little knee testing.

Oh yea, stage 3 race report: I suck at alleycats. 8th.

2009-09-30T13:43:00.001-07:00

Stage 3 tonight

2009-09-30T05:21:00.000-07:00

Man I've been thinking quite a bit about today's race.

I am a bit of a thinking man, but when it comes to some things, like racing, I usually just gut it out.

For this stage race, it has required a bit of a mix.

Honestly, when I tweaked that muscle on the first lap of the cross race, I spent a few minutes contemplating maybe dropping out, or taking it easy and just finishing.

I went with a little more gut and stuck it out. I did better than I expected. I really thought PJ or W.1 had the potential to push me off the podium.

Anyhow, today's race will be tricky.

I've thought of a few different ways of approaching/attacking this race. I wont be able to make my final decision till I get all details on the bridge.

Very exciting, very interesting.

Cya you all out there at 8.

If you wanna drink beer and get a free glass while your at it, stop by Zax at 6pm. Summit Oktoberfest.

Giro d Ghetto - Stage 2

2009-09-29T04:06:00.000-07:00

Photo from www.thyneighborsbike.com. Paint-shop by myself.

Ouch.

Intense.

Day started off with some pre-pre-race beer at Gingerman. The Marzen beers are in season, and Brooklyn brewing co. makes a damn good one.

We saw a little shrinkage in the race group, things were still serious.

The race was the good old fashion figure 8 course around TL.

W, EC, PJ, JM, W.1 and myself were the Major players.

JM started the game with some heat on the first leg and I joined in to get a little separation.

We did some serious work till the congress bridge.

That move grouped the major players together.

The barriers messed me up. I didn't stretch before (too busy hanging out and yaking away) and pulled some shit (I think the technical term is muscle).

This being a stage race, I tried to balance performance and preservation.

Anyhow, we kept it pretty hot, with JM falling off the back soon.

About two figure 8s in, W decides hes had enough bullshitting and books it.

We were now a chase group of four.

Some wanted to work together, some didn't.

I knew there was no reasonable chance of catching W.

I decided to work on positioning myself for a good sprint at the end.

Coming back from mopac, EC and I turned on the burners and found ourselves shoulder to shoulder at the final set of stairs before the sprint to the finish.

Remounts have been very good for me, but its a little hard with a groinular issue.

Still, EC and I were on our bikes round the same time and went for the sprint finish.

I was gaining quick near the line, but he had me in the end by less than a wheel.

Big ups EC, great last leg

Man, amazing racing.

If my abacus aided calculations are correct, this should put me in a tie for 2nd in the GC.

I feel that the alleycat may be a real game changer.

The saga continues...

Now for some hype music...

2009-09-28T17:04:00.000-07:00

I had the luxury of seeing these Texan maniacs in a stadium and in a dive.

A little prep music...

2009-09-28T14:40:00.000-07:00

Giro d Ghetto - Stage 1

2009-09-28T05:17:00.000-07:00

Photo by my personal photographer: DL

Ya m'on!

Last time around in 06' I remember a smaller and just slightly different crowd.
I've got to say, there is some legit racing going on this week.
Any full finishers should be damn proud.

How to spend the day before a race? Certainly not "saving" myself for it, I did a brisk 50 miles southeast with the Sunday Austin flyers ride.

Then did a little beer drinking (with food) and went through all the Interbike Swag that my roommate hooked me up with.

I did get a little nap in and started getting ready to "do work" round 6ish.

Did my rituals and got sufficiently hyped up.

I got to the bridge on time like a total dork.

I was surprised to see the level of racer dudes there.

Had a few of my fellow cyclo-cross rabbits out there and other dudes that just looked fast as fast.

Some of these guys I had ridden with at at the ATC ride on Saturdays, which is a no joke, race pace, go fast type of ride.

Its cool, I'd rather be beat and grow than have less of a challenge.

The course was: ascend the south side, descend on the north till just before 2222, back to the top for the finish.

Now, I'm a little familiar with Bonnell. I've ridden it.....maybe...like 10-15 times. Although, I did recently start doing a little training for the Hugel, and rode Bonnell and Ladera late last week.

Ladera:

We roll out around 9ish to Mt. Bonnell.

We started at the big toe of the foot of Bonnell.

People were released 1 min apart, so I left about 3o min after the first person.

D happened to be right in front of me.

So, my ride...

I actually tried to be smart this race. I tried to manage myself and not blow up. I wanted to be consistent on both sides of Bonnell. The back side (north) is much tougher, and I think my pacing was relatively successful.

During my time trial, I caught D. Thanks homes, I go faster with a blinking red rabbit to chase!

Also, I managed to catch another rider on the final climb. Thanks dude, you really pushed me.

I finished strong, tired, but not destroyed.

Strong enough for 3rd!!!

...One second behind 2nd... When BD told me that, it was awesome (cuz the dude is faaasst) and horrible (looking where I could have made that second).

In the end, I'm super stoked.

My goal going in was to podium. Ive managed one stage, hope I can hold it to the final GC.

Ya, I suck with pictures right now. My camera is lame and getting worse, plus cool kids have nice cameras and take better pictures anyhow. I will try and borrow pics and update this 'thang.

See you tonight for the cross race!!!!

So it begins...

2009-09-27T16:29:00.001-07:00

Tonight begins the Giro.

I need this challenge right now.

For reasons cycle-centric and not.

Alleycross race report

2009-09-26T04:31:00.001-07:00

Alright, now that my legs are completely healed, I can speak of the horrors that unveiled themselves on 9.22.09.

It all started around 3 am that day. I could hear the tap of rain. Unfortunately, those taps went on for hours.

Similar tapping went on at the Dirt Derby venue to the tune of 1.5 inches of rain by the morning. I put up a post on www.bikemojo.com asking/poking for an update and to hint that another race may happen in place.

Around 8 that morning, the word was out. No Dirt Derby. And I already had my outfit!

Ironic. A cyclo cross race canceled because of too much rain. Well, its not the course that is the problem. It turns out that the parking lot utilizes some clay that makes it impossible for cars to leave.

The Dirt Derby folks put the notice up on their facebook page. I comment with a hint about a "black market" race.

J at atxbs was being an early bird that day as well, so I gave him the heads up and he was cool with helping us out too.

Now a little bit of stuff to convince D with, I contacted thy neighbor to see if we (and I mean 99% him) should get the ball rolling a little earlier than 2 hrs.

He agreed, and things got 'tworking.

Big ups to BD for the barrier hook up.

When I rolled up, I was impressed. Some serious bikes and serious looking jerseys. Excellent.

Oh ya, and there was D with his ballerina outfit with anatomically correct(ish) features. Hmm, wonder why no pics of that sight.

Photo from www.thyneighborsbikes.com .....watch out, that guy has an itchy litigation finger.

The racin was fast from the get go. W (the dude that leaps like a gazelle) jumped out quick and I gave chase. I was on him good for about 2 laps. When we came around to the grass mounds, he took a spill. Smelling blood, I rushed for a remount and got my little black dress caught on the nose of my saddle. This resulted in a spectacular fall.

In the first lap though, C caught a bad break....in his chain...

Soon, JM and B were closing in on me.

For the rest of the race we three would be changing places according to who dominated the various sections.

I was making my time in the area under the bridge. I was cutting some hard turns and getting the feel of how to pedal efficiently on that terrain.

www.thyneighborsbike.com

Unfortunately, W got a flat in the closing laps.

In the last stretch I was actually leading, but B and JM murdered that section. Very nice attack fellas.

I gotta admit, my shits weak in that section. I need to figure it out.

Bottom line: This stuff is the real deal. Bad ass course with more potential. Well mixed terrain. Serious and not so serious competitors. Its a blast.

I hope we start getting some spectators though. Rosewood park has a pavilion conveniently located right next to the barrier section.

Cyclebum offer: If you don't have a good time, I owe you beer.

Plus, what other bad ass shit can you go see when the weather is cross worthy?

adsljkjdsf;jkl

2009-09-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

Looks like its gonna be a wet social ride. Lets see who all shows up.

You dont have to thank me for this.

When the pros cant get it done, get some slackers to do it.

2009-09-22T10:41:00.000-07:00

2009-09-21T22:15:00.001-07:00

2009-09-21T13:37:00.000-07:00

I remember first hearing this song in the movie Menace II Society.

Heard it recently...time warp.

A Proclamation!!!

2009-09-20T22:52:00.001-07:00

I will thoroughly train for, and give my all to try and finish The Tour Das Hugel 2009.

http://www.tourdashugel.com/

Be human, give it a try!!!

Dirt Derby

2009-09-20T08:55:00.001-07:00

Tuesday Night.

Iz be racin' the intermediate and open CX events.

Bring your Sunday best dress...

It is ladies night...

It keeps comin

2009-09-19T15:35:00.000-07:00

Man, there is a lot of this man's stuff on youtube. It is great.

Killer Instrumental

2009-09-19T14:28:00.000-07:00

I love rhodes 'boards on J Dilla tracks

2009-09-18T19:19:00.001-07:00

I agree with a few of these declarations...

2009-09-17T14:14:00.000-07:00

Thy Neighbors Alleycross

2009-09-14T21:49:00.000-07:00

Alright lets down to the details of the madness that was Saturday's Alleycross.

Saturday was pretty wet if you do not remember well.

I showed up at the bridge at 6:30. The drizzle started turning to the more real deal type of rain around this time. Two other dudes were there waiting. Both had cool and nice bikes, but they were not geeked out like myself.

Soon though, EC (I don't like putting people's names up) shows up with his waist sized quads. EC is hoss and has a lot of experience doing the alleycross races and Dirt Derby.

2-3 other chillin' racers and another Dirt Derby racer show up also.

Rain is legit now.

Alright, 3 dudes in leotards, and a nice handful in casual.

7pm rolls around and we head out to the course.

Now it was straight up pouring. The ride out there was great.

We stop by D's house to pick up the barriers, which afforded me the opportunity to sneak away to the store and pick up a quick brew.

The location was sweet. The barriers were set up in front of a pavilion that served as a spectator area.

The couse setup could best be described as a oddly shaped figure eight.

In the middle was the barrier section.

One loop featured the crazy contrast of thick mud and dusty dirt. The area with the dirt was dry because it was under a bridge. Tricky stuff riding fast on stuff similar to sand with your tires completely caked.

The other loop started with a curb obstacle. Then, there were two little hills to run up. Before you got back on the main straight, the loop had a section of off camber mud.

We started the fun off with a le mans style start, and the pace was hot from jump street.

The racing was good. R, is a seasoned racer started putting the hurt on me soon after the first lap. I think he got inspired when I beat him over the barriers the first time, haha.

I then figured I'd hang with EC and see if we can pace ourselves to catch him.
It turned out not to be big EC's day.

Soon, a newcomer to alleycross, and a cool guy, "B" was on our tail.

I figured its time to drop EC and see what this guy has going on.

This was fun stuff.

He owned one half of the loop, and I did better on the other and the barriers.

When we would pass one way, he would lead, the other, I would.

This went on for like 20 min.

Man it was awesome.

In the end, he finished ahead, with R finishing first and myself 3rd.

B is a great rider and I hope to see him at more races.

The more casual crew also had a blast. Some had no idea what they were getting themselves into, but everyone seemed to have a smile (of relief?) on their face after.

That's whats cross is about.

Competitive, semi-competitive, quasi-competitive, relatively competitive, alcoholy competitive, or non-competitive.

Whatever, just have fun.

Riding bikes in rain and mud

2009-09-13T16:25:00.000-07:00

My buddy D has caught the cross bug. He came out to one of my workout things, and is generally enthusiastic about cross and it taking hold here in Austin.

We had been checking our emails and atxbs.com to check if a race would be called Friday/Saturday. No dice.

We talked, why not just call one our own?

I said, I worthless for organizing, but Ill be down 100% for a race.

Ill say, D is good at organizing.

He talked to BD and was able to borrow some barriers. Thanks BD.

This thing was called like 2 hours before meet time, but he got the word out good, and planned a damn good race and course for us freaks.

Anyhow, the vibe, race, and aftermath was great. More on that soon.

And if for some ridiculous reason you are reading this and haven't ever moseyed around in D's hood, do it now. www.thyneighborsbike.com

Dirt Derby

2009-09-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Daaaaaaaaaaaamn

That is some fun and competitive racing.

The course is a bit out there. I rode about 9/10 miles from my place. I actually got a flat about a mile from the course and had to do a quick fix.

The course is tough stuff. It is a moto cross park after all. Some serious sand. Deep ruts. Tall ramps. Good stuff.

So how'd I do??

In the intermediate race I placed 6th of 14.

Top half on a course I have no experience in. Good deal.

I also know what kind of training I need to do to simulate race tempo.

In the Open (fast) race I placed 7th of 11.

It doesn't really look like it, but I did WAY better in the second race. It is a tougher one.

Really, every lap got better and better. I started learning the lines. I began to learn and trust my tires.

Hahaha.

I was given a nick name by the announcer...

Big Air (last name here)

Haha. Why?

Well. There is an enormous table top that you climb to get to the finish line.

I used the climb to advance a position, and ended up kinda popping a little air on the flat where the "officials" sit. The announcer commented on it.

Then, a few seconds later, I was cookin' it to create a gap between me and the dude I just passed.

I come up to some small table tops, and got a some authentic air (for a cross bike).

That sealed the deal.

Funny stuff.

Fun stuff.

More Dilla with a splash of Tribe

2009-09-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Its a GO, GO

2009-09-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

Time to see what I got.

This will be my first "proper" cx race.

I feel strong. I have been putting a lot of miles on.

30 min of hell. exciting.

2009-09-07T11:00:00.001-07:00

Did the 360/Shoal Creek loop today.

Saw the Triathlon on my way out.

Looking to check out the crits around 4pm

More Dilla:

Yes I have been riding bikes.

2009-09-05T09:45:00.000-07:00

Did a mountain ride this week and a grip of road rides.

Looking forward to the Annual ride tonight/tomorrow morning.

First things first.

Drink beer at Independence.

Indulge in a fat nap.

Another Dilla production

Music

2009-09-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

J Dilla was a producer. Some might call him a composer.

He provided a lot of magic to the Tribe.

This is a good sample:

Music

2009-08-30T10:46:00.001-07:00