Airbourne Becomes Flyte: New 29"er Alu. Frame!

The new Flyte Celsius-9 aluminum 29 inch wheeled hardtail frame. $399.99!!
Guitar Ted Productions

The Airbourne Bicycle Company has had to change it's name, due to a licensing agreement, to Flyte Bicycles. Okay, now that that is out of the way, we can get to the really important stuff!
The once promised, then nixed 29 inch wheeled aluminum hardtail frame is now available! What's more, it's only 399.99! This is great news, as the 29 inch world is chock full of single speed hardtail choices, but very few geared frames. The geared frames that are available are usually custom ones, which isn't bad, just not budget friendly. Now it will be possible for anyone to swap over most of their existing drivetrain parts, get a fork, and a wheelset, and have a 29 inch wheeled bike to check out for less than a grand. Of course, you could also choose one of Flyte's complete bike kits, or get a complete bike under a grand from Fisher. The choices are starting to proliferate, so if you've ever had a hankerin' to check out the larger wheeled format, now's a good time!

Airbourne Becomes Flyte: New 29"er Alu. Frame!

The new Flyte Celsius-9 aluminum 29 inch wheeled hardtail frame. $399.99!!
Guitar Ted Productions

The Airbourne Bicycle Company has had to change it's name, due to a licensing agreement, to Flyte Bicycles. Okay, now that that is out of the way, we can get to the really important stuff!
The once promised, then nixed 29 inch wheeled aluminum hardtail frame is now available! What's more, it's only 399.99! This is great news, as the 29 inch world is chock full of single speed hardtail choices, but very few geared frames. The geared frames that are available are usually custom ones, which isn't bad, just not budget friendly. Now it will be possible for anyone to swap over most of their existing drivetrain parts, get a fork, and a wheelset, and have a 29 inch wheeled bike to check out for less than a grand. Of course, you could also choose one of Flyte's complete bike kits, or get a complete bike under a grand from Fisher. The choices are starting to proliferate, so if you've ever had a hankerin' to check out the larger wheeled format, now's a good time!

Why Children Quit Riding Bikes

The frame sticker reads, "Super Lite", "1020", "Taper Wall Main Tubes". So, I guess they aren't solid! They sure felt that way!
Guitar Ted Productions

We got this childrens 20" wheeled bike in the shop for a flat rear tire repair. When I went to put it in the repair stand, I about threw out my back! This thing was solid! (Not in the funky, good way, either) I had to weigh it! Yeeeeeaaaah! Riiiiggghhht! 30 and a third el-bees! You've got to be kidding me. A kids bike that weighs thirty plus! No wonder they give up on bikes at an early age. Think about it. If you are a kid, and your bike is this heavy, then how heavy is an adult bike going to be? (I'm using kid logic here, so bear with me) And something else that would bother me is how often the thing breaks! I mean, here I am, ready to head over to my friends house to hit the X-BOX, and my tire is flat, my chain threw off, and the front wheel wiggles worse than it did when Dad brought it home from Mall-Wart. Man! This bike sucks! I can't wait to get one of those tuner cars! Or a H2 with spinners! That'd be sooo pimp! Soooo tight!

I'm beggining to think that the oil companies have to be behind this somehow! How else can you explain this! The bikes would make me hate any form of two wheeled travel! Then there is the question of how? Like, how can this bike be that heavy? Is it made from some secret material that the government of China is using to infect our wee ones with a genetically altered disease that causes the kids to grow up corpulent, lazy, and complacent? If it is that, then it's working!

All I know is that my back hurts! I'm going to have to look for one of those lumbar belts if this keeps up!

Why Children Quit Riding Bikes

The frame sticker reads, "Super Lite", "1020", "Taper Wall Main Tubes". So, I guess they aren't solid! They sure felt that way!
Guitar Ted Productions

We got this childrens 20" wheeled bike in the shop for a flat rear tire repair. When I went to put it in the repair stand, I about threw out my back! This thing was solid! (Not in the funky, good way, either) I had to weigh it! Yeeeeeaaaah! Riiiiggghhht! 30 and a third el-bees! You've got to be kidding me. A kids bike that weighs thirty plus! No wonder they give up on bikes at an early age. Think about it. If you are a kid, and your bike is this heavy, then how heavy is an adult bike going to be? (I'm using kid logic here, so bear with me) And something else that would bother me is how often the thing breaks! I mean, here I am, ready to head over to my friends house to hit the X-BOX, and my tire is flat, my chain threw off, and the front wheel wiggles worse than it did when Dad brought it home from Mall-Wart. Man! This bike sucks! I can't wait to get one of those tuner cars! Or a H2 with spinners! That'd be sooo pimp! Soooo tight!

I'm beggining to think that the oil companies have to be behind this somehow! How else can you explain this! The bikes would make me hate any form of two wheeled travel! Then there is the question of how? Like, how can this bike be that heavy? Is it made from some secret material that the government of China is using to infect our wee ones with a genetically altered disease that causes the kids to grow up corpulent, lazy, and complacent? If it is that, then it's working!

All I know is that my back hurts! I'm going to have to look for one of those lumbar belts if this keeps up!

This bike weighs more than most adult bikes! How do they do it?
Guitar Ted Productions

This bike weighs more than most adult bikes! How do they do it?
Guitar Ted Productions

Trek Fuel EX 7 Hits Europa!

Well, here it is. "Part time employee" Ron Saul's new Trek EX-7.
Check out Mr. 24, as he assembles it with love!



The bike comes out of the box almost assembled, but we do several checks, and test ride the bike before the customer
gets thier hands on it.





Jeff made several adjustments to the bike's suspension, based
on the customers, ahem!.....measurements!








We were pretty impressed with the parts spec, and the minimal test rides we got. This bike seems pretty dialed in for what it's intended use is. That is, long, epic trail riding and endurance events. While it's not XC light, it's pretty stout, and I thought it pedaled way lighter than it was. Of course, that might all change if things got more vertical. However; the tires seemed pretty grippy, so as long as you can turn over the cranks, this thing should haul up a climb pretty well. I thought the suspension felt a little more "bike like" than the Cannondale Rush I rode a week or so ago. That bike felt a little more dissconnected to the ground than the Trek. Both are great bikes. The Cannondale had a great parts spec, and the Trek was less money, but still pretty good. In fact, you could buy 1.5 Trek Fuel EX-7's for the price of the Rush we saw. (Not sure if you can buy half a bike!) To be fair, Cannondale has less spendy Rush bikes. ( sorta like a cheap high!)

Well, I don't expect Mr. Saul to be hangin' around the shop much for awhile! That's for sure! Enjoy your new ride!


Check out the coversation going on concerning this morning's earlier post on the Trek "69er".
The veiwpoints vary, and it's interesting to see that the concept is not immediately understood. It's another reason that Trek may want to reconsider issuing this bike to the public. (And they thought that Fishers 29"ers were hard to sell!)

The "Big Announcement": Well, to one young fella, anyway! I decided that the bike I loaned out to Jimmy this weekend for the race at Ingawanis fit him so well, that he had to have it! I made him a rediculus offer to take it off my hands, more so that he would feel some ownership in it. I suspect he is still in shock over the whole thing, but he really seemed to enjoy the rides he got in on it, so what the heck! I wish him miles of smiles, and I am glad to see someone getting some use out of that sled. Go Jimmy!

So, here's to two new mountain bikers out on the loose! Ron and Jimmy will be tearin' up the local trails soon, so look out for them and say hi!

Trek Fuel EX 7 Hits Europa!

Well, here it is. "Part time employee" Ron Saul's new Trek EX-7.
Check out Mr. 24, as he assembles it with love!



The bike comes out of the box almost assembled, but we do several checks, and test ride the bike before the customer
gets thier hands on it.





Jeff made several adjustments to the bike's suspension, based
on the customers, ahem!.....measurements!








We were pretty impressed with the parts spec, and the minimal test rides we got. This bike seems pretty dialed in for what it's intended use is. That is, long, epic trail riding and endurance events. While it's not XC light, it's pretty stout, and I thought it pedaled way lighter than it was. Of course, that might all change if things got more vertical. However; the tires seemed pretty grippy, so as long as you can turn over the cranks, this thing should haul up a climb pretty well. I thought the suspension felt a little more "bike like" than the Cannondale Rush I rode a week or so ago. That bike felt a little more dissconnected to the ground than the Trek. Both are great bikes. The Cannondale had a great parts spec, and the Trek was less money, but still pretty good. In fact, you could buy 1.5 Trek Fuel EX-7's for the price of the Rush we saw. (Not sure if you can buy half a bike!) To be fair, Cannondale has less spendy Rush bikes. ( sorta like a cheap high!)

Well, I don't expect Mr. Saul to be hangin' around the shop much for awhile! That's for sure! Enjoy your new ride!


Check out the coversation going on concerning this morning's earlier post on the Trek "69er".
The veiwpoints vary, and it's interesting to see that the concept is not immediately understood. It's another reason that Trek may want to reconsider issuing this bike to the public. (And they thought that Fishers 29"ers were hard to sell!)

The "Big Announcement": Well, to one young fella, anyway! I decided that the bike I loaned out to Jimmy this weekend for the race at Ingawanis fit him so well, that he had to have it! I made him a rediculus offer to take it off my hands, more so that he would feel some ownership in it. I suspect he is still in shock over the whole thing, but he really seemed to enjoy the rides he got in on it, so what the heck! I wish him miles of smiles, and I am glad to see someone getting some use out of that sled. Go Jimmy!

So, here's to two new mountain bikers out on the loose! Ron and Jimmy will be tearin' up the local trails soon, so look out for them and say hi!

A "Mixed Bag"

Travis Brown's single speed 29" front/ 26" rear bike. Picture courtesy of cyclingnews.com
Guitar Ted Productions

There has been alot of experiments done recently involving the use of 29 inch front wheels on a otherwise traditional 26 inch rear wheeled hardtail bicycle. Of course, you wouldn't normally see such a thing. Namely; a bike with two differing wheel sizes, unless you had just traveled into the future from the 1890's. I am not an advocate of such a setup, but I will try to impart the percieved benefits of such a bicycle.

First, the idea is that a 29 inch wheel is harder to spin up to speed from a stop, or from a slow speed to a faster speed. This is fact. A larger diameter wheel, with a large, fat tire on it will take a litlle extra effort to spin up to speed. What most people do not talk about is how that same wheel has a tendency to want to keep spinning, or hold it's momentum. Additionally, the larger wheel has somewhat better gyroscopic tendencies, as well. So, to re-cap, the big wheels spin up slower, but have better stability, and carry more momentum than smaller wheels.

Secondly: The 29 inch wheel is better at rolling over trail obstacles than it's 26 inch wheeled sibling. This is fact. The "lower angle of attack", or the effect of the larger diameter of the 29 inch wheel causes it to roll up and over stuff with less deflection of the wheel. You percieve this as a smoother, more stable ride. Think of it this way; your car would have a very difficult time getting over a parking barrier. By putting yourself in a four by four, with 36" tires, you can walk right over that barrier. The tires are bigger, so they don't bump into the barrier and bounce backwards. The bigger tires, with it's lower angle of attack, rolls up onto the barrier, and over it. Got it? So, to re-cap, 29 inch wheels roll over stuff better.

Now we come to this mix of the two wheel sizes. 26 inch and 29 inch wheels. Why? Well, the prevailing wisdom here is that you gain the benefit of the big wheel by putting it on the front, where it will roll over stuff better. (I guess we won't worry about the back wheel, it'll just follow along- right?) The benefit of the 26 inch wheel in back is that it is easier to spin up to speed. This is supposed to be the best of both worlds. I say, it's a misunderstanding of the 29 inch wheeled bike. Here's why.

The smaller back wheel, while retaining the good spin up factor, does not roll over stuff better. Less comfort, less control. Also, a 29 inch wheel has an elongated contact patch with the ground. (Another effect of the larger diameter) This gives much better grip than a comparably sized 26 inch tire. Wouldn't you want better grip and comfort- especially on a single speed? What about the spin up factor? Well, this is where most people don't get it. You just cannot ride a 29 inch wheeled bike like you do a 26 inch wheeled bike. You have to re-learn a few things. Namely, how to conserve your momentum. ( I'll get into that on another post!) Finally, I really wouldn't want to carry two different sized tubes along for every ride, or have to invest in two different tire standards for one bike. Especially if I'm just getting into mountain biking, or am on a tight budget.

My conclusion is, that while Travis' bike is a single speed Trek, pink, and has cool sliding drop outs, it is not something I would invest in. Don't make this bike, Trek! If you do something, do a full-on 29 inch wheeled bike, or 26 inch wheeled bike. This compromise is a bad idea. VERY bad!

A "Mixed Bag"

Travis Brown's single speed 29" front/ 26" rear bike. Picture courtesy of cyclingnews.com
Guitar Ted Productions

There has been alot of experiments done recently involving the use of 29 inch front wheels on a otherwise traditional 26 inch rear wheeled hardtail bicycle. Of course, you wouldn't normally see such a thing. Namely; a bike with two differing wheel sizes, unless you had just traveled into the future from the 1890's. I am not an advocate of such a setup, but I will try to impart the percieved benefits of such a bicycle.

First, the idea is that a 29 inch wheel is harder to spin up to speed from a stop, or from a slow speed to a faster speed. This is fact. A larger diameter wheel, with a large, fat tire on it will take a litlle extra effort to spin up to speed. What most people do not talk about is how that same wheel has a tendency to want to keep spinning, or hold it's momentum. Additionally, the larger wheel has somewhat better gyroscopic tendencies, as well. So, to re-cap, the big wheels spin up slower, but have better stability, and carry more momentum than smaller wheels.

Secondly: The 29 inch wheel is better at rolling over trail obstacles than it's 26 inch wheeled sibling. This is fact. The "lower angle of attack", or the effect of the larger diameter of the 29 inch wheel causes it to roll up and over stuff with less deflection of the wheel. You percieve this as a smoother, more stable ride. Think of it this way; your car would have a very difficult time getting over a parking barrier. By putting yourself in a four by four, with 36" tires, you can walk right over that barrier. The tires are bigger, so they don't bump into the barrier and bounce backwards. The bigger tires, with it's lower angle of attack, rolls up onto the barrier, and over it. Got it? So, to re-cap, 29 inch wheels roll over stuff better.

Now we come to this mix of the two wheel sizes. 26 inch and 29 inch wheels. Why? Well, the prevailing wisdom here is that you gain the benefit of the big wheel by putting it on the front, where it will roll over stuff better. (I guess we won't worry about the back wheel, it'll just follow along- right?) The benefit of the 26 inch wheel in back is that it is easier to spin up to speed. This is supposed to be the best of both worlds. I say, it's a misunderstanding of the 29 inch wheeled bike. Here's why.

The smaller back wheel, while retaining the good spin up factor, does not roll over stuff better. Less comfort, less control. Also, a 29 inch wheel has an elongated contact patch with the ground. (Another effect of the larger diameter) This gives much better grip than a comparably sized 26 inch tire. Wouldn't you want better grip and comfort- especially on a single speed? What about the spin up factor? Well, this is where most people don't get it. You just cannot ride a 29 inch wheeled bike like you do a 26 inch wheeled bike. You have to re-learn a few things. Namely, how to conserve your momentum. ( I'll get into that on another post!) Finally, I really wouldn't want to carry two different sized tubes along for every ride, or have to invest in two different tire standards for one bike. Especially if I'm just getting into mountain biking, or am on a tight budget.

My conclusion is, that while Travis' bike is a single speed Trek, pink, and has cool sliding drop outs, it is not something I would invest in. Don't make this bike, Trek! If you do something, do a full-on 29 inch wheeled bike, or 26 inch wheeled bike. This compromise is a bad idea. VERY bad!

Late Edition: Sunday Tidbits

Several things have struck me today as being rather interesting. Here are my thoughts. First, I would be remiss for not sending out my thoughts and prayers to the people of the Gulf Coast as they are about to suffer a major calamity. I hope you do the same. Now.....on to the stuff.

1. The information that I got last weekend at the Trek Show concerning the Super Caliber Race Day bike and the 29 inch Bontrager tubeless tire/rim systems has again popped up in discussions here and here. In the first hyperlink, you will learn that not only will we not be seeing a tubeless system anytime soon, but that Bontrager and WTB have apparently pulled all their 29 inch aramid bead folding tires from the market! The second hyperlink will take you to a discussion that includes the interesting tidbits of information pointing to a long delay in the arrival of any 29 inch wheeled Race Day bike from Fisher. Oddly enough, this is exactly what I reported last week, and what the marketing head at Fisher said I was dead wrong about. I would tend to think that the information coming out the back door at Trek is a little more reliable than what we are used to hearing out the front door!

2. I really am not sure I want to say too much about this next subject, for fear of appearing that I am tooting my own horn. So, briefly I will say that I had the great pleasure to provide a young man with a mountain bike that I had laying around here at Guitar Ted Labratories so he could race it at today's Camp Ingawanis XC event. It was his very first mountain bike experience, and he pulled down a 5th place in the beginners class! ( I should mention that he won the state championship BMX race the day before for his class!) Way to go, Jimmy! I'm proud of ya! There will be a major announcement coming in connection with this, so hold on, ya'all!

3. I spent alot of time monitoring the reaction to the banning of Jeff from the world solo 24hrs of Adrenaline championships. I am afraid that the director of that series has made a grave mistake. The ball is in his court now, and it will be interesting to see what type of reaction, if any, will precipitate from all of this. I think the future of this series hangs in the balance. It's too bad that it had to end this way. I don't forsee anything positive coming from this, but let's hope I'm wrong about that!

4. I have been questioned as to my plans for the coming weekend- whether or not I might come to the 24 hour race at Seven Oaks, near Boone. Well, regretfully I have to decline. You see, a certain Mr. 24 and his co-hort, Carlos: Lord Sith of the Jackals (umm....like, whatever, doode!) are going to be down there. That leaves me to be working on Sunday with Leans on Wood. So, no cavorting amongst the woodland creatures for me! I am; however, planning on doing a major gravel grinder after work on Sunday to Alden, Iowa. Well, if the weather holds out!

Speaking of out.....I am!

Late Edition: Sunday Tidbits

Several things have struck me today as being rather interesting. Here are my thoughts. First, I would be remiss for not sending out my thoughts and prayers to the people of the Gulf Coast as they are about to suffer a major calamity. I hope you do the same. Now.....on to the stuff.

1. The information that I got last weekend at the Trek Show concerning the Super Caliber Race Day bike and the 29 inch Bontrager tubeless tire/rim systems has again popped up in discussions here and here. In the first hyperlink, you will learn that not only will we not be seeing a tubeless system anytime soon, but that Bontrager and WTB have apparently pulled all their 29 inch aramid bead folding tires from the market! The second hyperlink will take you to a discussion that includes the interesting tidbits of information pointing to a long delay in the arrival of any 29 inch wheeled Race Day bike from Fisher. Oddly enough, this is exactly what I reported last week, and what the marketing head at Fisher said I was dead wrong about. I would tend to think that the information coming out the back door at Trek is a little more reliable than what we are used to hearing out the front door!

2. I really am not sure I want to say too much about this next subject, for fear of appearing that I am tooting my own horn. So, briefly I will say that I had the great pleasure to provide a young man with a mountain bike that I had laying around here at Guitar Ted Labratories so he could race it at today's Camp Ingawanis XC event. It was his very first mountain bike experience, and he pulled down a 5th place in the beginners class! ( I should mention that he won the state championship BMX race the day before for his class!) Way to go, Jimmy! I'm proud of ya! There will be a major announcement coming in connection with this, so hold on, ya'all!

3. I spent alot of time monitoring the reaction to the banning of Jeff from the world solo 24hrs of Adrenaline championships. I am afraid that the director of that series has made a grave mistake. The ball is in his court now, and it will be interesting to see what type of reaction, if any, will precipitate from all of this. I think the future of this series hangs in the balance. It's too bad that it had to end this way. I don't forsee anything positive coming from this, but let's hope I'm wrong about that!

4. I have been questioned as to my plans for the coming weekend- whether or not I might come to the 24 hour race at Seven Oaks, near Boone. Well, regretfully I have to decline. You see, a certain Mr. 24 and his co-hort, Carlos: Lord Sith of the Jackals (umm....like, whatever, doode!) are going to be down there. That leaves me to be working on Sunday with Leans on Wood. So, no cavorting amongst the woodland creatures for me! I am; however, planning on doing a major gravel grinder after work on Sunday to Alden, Iowa. Well, if the weather holds out!

Speaking of out.....I am!

What A Bicycle Mechanic Lives On

First- Select your organic material carefully! We harvest ours by hand. Then.........
Guitar Ted Productions

What A Bicycle Mechanic Lives On

First- Select your organic material carefully! We harvest ours by hand. Then.........
Guitar Ted Productions

Prepare in a tasty, thick base, cooled to room temperature.......
Guitar Ted Productions

Prepare in a tasty, thick base, cooled to room temperature.......
Guitar Ted Productions

Select from some of my exotic spices.......
Guitar Ted Productions

Select from some of my exotic spices.......
Guitar Ted Productions

Mix it with some "Special Sauce".....
Guitar Ted Productions

Mix it with some "Special Sauce".....
Guitar Ted Productions

A selection of chips on the side.....
Guitar Ted Productions

A selection of chips on the side.....
Guitar Ted Productions

After dinner mints, anyone?
Guitar Ted Productions

After dinner mints, anyone?
Guitar Ted Productions

The Hornets Nest Has Been Disturbed!!!

Note: This was briefly posted up by mistake on Jeff Kerkove's blog! Sorry for any confusion that this might cause! A result of the days from when I was a contributor to his blog. Hit the wrong button! Whoops!....and now on to your regularly scheduled blog!

It seems that the recent action taking against Jeff by the director of the 24hrs of Adrenaline has stirred up a tidal wave of reaction amongst the endurance racing community. Although Jeff would not want to admit it, he is an extremely popular and influential racer. I think the whole enchilada is best summed up on a recent post by Jonathan Maus on his blogsite, entitled JustRiding Along.

On the topic of blogs. Sites like Jonathan's are a great example of what is happening in today's media. I like to call it the culture of the internet. It basically can be thought of as electronic word of mouth. You may have heard that there is no advertising like word of mouth. This is similar, it just gets around a little faster! The individual now has a voice that can affect the actions and policies of larger corporations and political entities. It's a powerful new way of communicating that can't be ignored.

Someday, I could even envision this blog being podcasted. I could give information as it happens. For instance, a cycling product that I want to be reviewed could be done on the fly, as it was being used. I wouldn't have to wait until I got around to a keyboard, and risk losing my thoughts and initial impressions.

And finally....... I saw this on the forums of mtbr.com. It is a new system of attaching spokes to a rim without drilling holes through the rim. It's one of those things that, when you see it, you say, "Why didn't someone think of this years ago!"

Have a Great Weekend Everyone!!

The Hornets Nest Has Been Disturbed!!!

Note: This was briefly posted up by mistake on Jeff Kerkove's blog! Sorry for any confusion that this might cause! A result of the days from when I was a contributor to his blog. Hit the wrong button! Whoops!....and now on to your regularly scheduled blog!

It seems that the recent action taking against Jeff by the director of the 24hrs of Adrenaline has stirred up a tidal wave of reaction amongst the endurance racing community. Although Jeff would not want to admit it, he is an extremely popular and influential racer. I think the whole enchilada is best summed up on a recent post by Jonathan Maus on his blogsite, entitled JustRiding Along.

On the topic of blogs. Sites like Jonathan's are a great example of what is happening in today's media. I like to call it the culture of the internet. It basically can be thought of as electronic word of mouth. You may have heard that there is no advertising like word of mouth. This is similar, it just gets around a little faster! The individual now has a voice that can affect the actions and policies of larger corporations and political entities. It's a powerful new way of communicating that can't be ignored.

Someday, I could even envision this blog being podcasted. I could give information as it happens. For instance, a cycling product that I want to be reviewed could be done on the fly, as it was being used. I wouldn't have to wait until I got around to a keyboard, and risk losing my thoughts and initial impressions.

And finally....... I saw this on the forums of mtbr.com. It is a new system of attaching spokes to a rim without drilling holes through the rim. It's one of those things that, when you see it, you say, "Why didn't someone think of this years ago!"

Have a Great Weekend Everyone!!

NEWS FLASH!! Mr. 24 BANNED!!!!

I was at work today when the e-mail came in to Jeff that the director of 24hrs of Adrenaline, Stuart Dorland, has "Suspended" Jeff from competing at any Adrenaline events for a year! This all based on comments Jeff posted on a thread on mtbr.com. Check it out here http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=121068 .

In the thread, you will start to see a picture unfold of this event director, and it ain't pretty, my friends! I'm disgusted by this action, and baffled. How in the world does this guy ever hope to gain a positive image for his events by banning someone for voicing an opinion? Goofy!

NEWS FLASH!! Mr. 24 BANNED!!!!

I was at work today when the e-mail came in to Jeff that the director of 24hrs of Adrenaline, Stuart Dorland, has "Suspended" Jeff from competing at any Adrenaline events for a year! This all based on comments Jeff posted on a thread on mtbr.com. Check it out here http://forums.mtbr.com/showthread.php?t=121068 .

In the thread, you will start to see a picture unfold of this event director, and it ain't pretty, my friends! I'm disgusted by this action, and baffled. How in the world does this guy ever hope to gain a positive image for his events by banning someone for voicing an opinion? Goofy!

Thanks, Whizbang!

Wow! What can I say! There is so much going on here. I'll leave it up to you.
Guitar Ted Productions

Tonight the Europa Cycle and Ski staff held a small party to honor the services of John, who we know as Whizbang. He is officially done at the end of the month, so we're a little premature in booting him down the road, but hey! What are co-workers for, anyway? I'm not even going to start commenting on this photo, and no- don't ask me what Mr.24 is looking at! I don't think he knows either! HA! Anyways, a big Guitar Ted Productions salute to you, John. You'll be missed!

Notes from the Sea of Web: 1. I recieved a very nice e-mail from Gary Fisher today. He was relating how he felt my take on Trek Show was "right on". He also appologized for the lack of info, but promised that things are looking good for '06 and beyond on several fronts. Cool! It also would appear that the Fisher Rig was a huge hit amongst the single speed crowd as the event saw a ton of them at the Single Speed World Championships held in Pensylvania over the weekend. I am going to give Gary a huge thumbs up for taking the time out to communicate with me! I was impressed!

2. I got a question here on the comments section that I'll address here. It dealt with the disc vs. linear pull brake argument. I am a big believer in keeping things light, and simple when it comes to my bicycle. That said, I do run Avid BB-7 disc brakes on the Monkey. I feel that they have undoubtedly saved me more than once during commutes to work in less than ideal conditions. Linear pull brakes of high quality, used in mainly dry conditions will do you no wrong. However; if your running anything that has major downhills, mud, creek crossings galore, or in rainy, wet, and snowy conditions, linear pull brakes just don't match up to disc brakes. Choose your weapons carefully my friends!

3. I got a comment dealing with the "Someone is Watching" post that said, yes! we are watching you!. Well, thanks! I guess. Apparently this blog serves a functional purpose after all. Look for more bicycle related industry diatribe as it formulates from the slimy crevasses of my cranium soon! Say it with me: I am a tool!...I am a tool......

4. And finally.............. This is something that really gets to me! (Rant mode....AGAIN!) I got a call from a local cyclist at work today relating how all his bicycles have been stolen! Talk about ripping the heart out of a guy! What do you say? I tried to be supportive, but I know...Iknow that there is nothing that can assuage that man's pain right now. I only hope he'll rise from these ashes to pound dirt once more. These bikes were cherished treasures. You might have an inkling how that feels. Maybe you have gone through something like it. I just don't know, ya know? I just hope I don't ever see someone else riding those bikes. I know what they are, so it would be easy for me to spot them. Why don't I want to see someone riding them, you might ask? Well, it'd be just too tempting to lay the smack down on 'em, that's why! These people that perpetrate such crimes are akin to horse thieves, and worse. BAH!

Bed calls! I RESPOND! OUT!!!

Thanks, Whizbang!

Wow! What can I say! There is so much going on here. I'll leave it up to you.
Guitar Ted Productions

Tonight the Europa Cycle and Ski staff held a small party to honor the services of John, who we know as Whizbang. He is officially done at the end of the month, so we're a little premature in booting him down the road, but hey! What are co-workers for, anyway? I'm not even going to start commenting on this photo, and no- don't ask me what Mr.24 is looking at! I don't think he knows either! HA! Anyways, a big Guitar Ted Productions salute to you, John. You'll be missed!

Notes from the Sea of Web: 1. I recieved a very nice e-mail from Gary Fisher today. He was relating how he felt my take on Trek Show was "right on". He also appologized for the lack of info, but promised that things are looking good for '06 and beyond on several fronts. Cool! It also would appear that the Fisher Rig was a huge hit amongst the single speed crowd as the event saw a ton of them at the Single Speed World Championships held in Pensylvania over the weekend. I am going to give Gary a huge thumbs up for taking the time out to communicate with me! I was impressed!

2. I got a question here on the comments section that I'll address here. It dealt with the disc vs. linear pull brake argument. I am a big believer in keeping things light, and simple when it comes to my bicycle. That said, I do run Avid BB-7 disc brakes on the Monkey. I feel that they have undoubtedly saved me more than once during commutes to work in less than ideal conditions. Linear pull brakes of high quality, used in mainly dry conditions will do you no wrong. However; if your running anything that has major downhills, mud, creek crossings galore, or in rainy, wet, and snowy conditions, linear pull brakes just don't match up to disc brakes. Choose your weapons carefully my friends!

3. I got a comment dealing with the "Someone is Watching" post that said, yes! we are watching you!. Well, thanks! I guess. Apparently this blog serves a functional purpose after all. Look for more bicycle related industry diatribe as it formulates from the slimy crevasses of my cranium soon! Say it with me: I am a tool!...I am a tool......

4. And finally.............. This is something that really gets to me! (Rant mode....AGAIN!) I got a call from a local cyclist at work today relating how all his bicycles have been stolen! Talk about ripping the heart out of a guy! What do you say? I tried to be supportive, but I know...Iknow that there is nothing that can assuage that man's pain right now. I only hope he'll rise from these ashes to pound dirt once more. These bikes were cherished treasures. You might have an inkling how that feels. Maybe you have gone through something like it. I just don't know, ya know? I just hope I don't ever see someone else riding those bikes. I know what they are, so it would be easy for me to spot them. Why don't I want to see someone riding them, you might ask? Well, it'd be just too tempting to lay the smack down on 'em, that's why! These people that perpetrate such crimes are akin to horse thieves, and worse. BAH!

Bed calls! I RESPOND! OUT!!!

Time Keeps On Tickin',Tickin' Tickin'...........

Ever wonder how much time you lose to interuptions, snafus, and general mayhem at work? Have you ever thought, "If they'd only leave me alone, I'd get all this work done!" Well, I have, and I decided to look into it. I did this once before at another job. It was pretty amazing. Check this out.

Total Time Spent At Work
August 24th, 2005, 7hrs. 30min.

1. Time spent helping customers on sales floor......................2hrs, 8min.

2. Time spent answering and handling phone calls...............13 min.

3. Time spent listening to Leans On Wood.............................32min.

4. Lunch Time.............................................................................16 min.

5. Time spent actually working on bicycles.............................4hrs, 21 min.

Pretty cool! I thought I got interrupted more than this. It might be helpful to know that besides two customers, the most time spent helping a customer was five minutes or less! You know, "just looking" types? Or asking quetions and leaving right away, or picking up repairs. Also, I was alone out on the floor for th first 5hrs, 30 minutes until Mr. 24 came into work. So, these "little" interuptions are pretty devastating when your up to your elbows in grease and trying to adjust bicycles as best you can.

I'll be doing more random time studies in the future. Maybe you should try it too? That way when the boss says, "How come you didn't get that done?", you can show him how many minutes got wasted doing other schtuff!

On a completely unrelated note: Check out this sneak peak at SRAM's new road shift/ brake levers, due out next year. If these things work well, Shimano is going to be in trouble! Check out the simiarity in lever shape. Patent infringement, anyone? I like the campy-esque cable routing. Clean machine!

Okay, folks! Mr Ryan Atkinson of Fisher Bicycles has informed me that I was misinformed about Fisher's intents concerning the Super Caliber Race Day 29"er bike, and tubeless tire/ rim production for 29"ers. I say, we'll see about that! Show me the products when you guys say they will be out, and I'll believe it then. My source at Trek didn't say the stuff would never come out, just that it wouldn't be anytime soon! Besides, a late spring intro of the Race Day bike puts that model nearly into Trek's '07 model year! Whatever, doode! And as for Mr. Atkinson's attendance at the Single Speed World Championships is concerned, he says it was a welcomed relief from a week's worth of Trek Show. Well, I guess that means the po-dunk dealers that showed up Saturday through Monday must either have been too much of a pain to deal with, or they were unworthy, or BOTH! Last time I checked, the customers walking in our shops door at 7:55pm. deserved as much attention as the ones that showed up at 9:02 am.! I guess Trek doesn't follow the same business model that the retail outlets do for customer service. Hmmm....

Ah! Too much black goodness this morning, I guess! Rant mode off!

Time Keeps On Tickin',Tickin' Tickin'...........

Ever wonder how much time you lose to interuptions, snafus, and general mayhem at work? Have you ever thought, "If they'd only leave me alone, I'd get all this work done!" Well, I have, and I decided to look into it. I did this once before at another job. It was pretty amazing. Check this out.

Total Time Spent At Work
August 24th, 2005, 7hrs. 30min.

1. Time spent helping customers on sales floor......................2hrs, 8min.

2. Time spent answering and handling phone calls...............13 min.

3. Time spent listening to Leans On Wood.............................32min.

4. Lunch Time.............................................................................16 min.

5. Time spent actually working on bicycles.............................4hrs, 21 min.

Pretty cool! I thought I got interrupted more than this. It might be helpful to know that besides two customers, the most time spent helping a customer was five minutes or less! You know, "just looking" types? Or asking quetions and leaving right away, or picking up repairs. Also, I was alone out on the floor for th first 5hrs, 30 minutes until Mr. 24 came into work. So, these "little" interuptions are pretty devastating when your up to your elbows in grease and trying to adjust bicycles as best you can.

I'll be doing more random time studies in the future. Maybe you should try it too? That way when the boss says, "How come you didn't get that done?", you can show him how many minutes got wasted doing other schtuff!

On a completely unrelated note: Check out this sneak peak at SRAM's new road shift/ brake levers, due out next year. If these things work well, Shimano is going to be in trouble! Check out the simiarity in lever shape. Patent infringement, anyone? I like the campy-esque cable routing. Clean machine!

Okay, folks! Mr Ryan Atkinson of Fisher Bicycles has informed me that I was misinformed about Fisher's intents concerning the Super Caliber Race Day 29"er bike, and tubeless tire/ rim production for 29"ers. I say, we'll see about that! Show me the products when you guys say they will be out, and I'll believe it then. My source at Trek didn't say the stuff would never come out, just that it wouldn't be anytime soon! Besides, a late spring intro of the Race Day bike puts that model nearly into Trek's '07 model year! Whatever, doode! And as for Mr. Atkinson's attendance at the Single Speed World Championships is concerned, he says it was a welcomed relief from a week's worth of Trek Show. Well, I guess that means the po-dunk dealers that showed up Saturday through Monday must either have been too much of a pain to deal with, or they were unworthy, or BOTH! Last time I checked, the customers walking in our shops door at 7:55pm. deserved as much attention as the ones that showed up at 9:02 am.! I guess Trek doesn't follow the same business model that the retail outlets do for customer service. Hmmm....

Ah! Too much black goodness this morning, I guess! Rant mode off!

Could Be the Next "Big Thing" For G.T. Part II

Well, here are the final pics released today by OnOne showing the new 29 inch wheeled Inbred frame. As you might see, the rear drop outs are sliders with an unusual tensioner built right in! Also note the rear derailluer hangar. This frame is "gearie" compatible, and that's how I would run it. It looks as though one of our distributors is getting these in, so I'll be keeping my eyes peeled for a price. If it's good, you just may see Guitar Ted on this thing! It'll look pretty cool with that new Bontrager Switchblade fork, don't you think?




I have been wrestling with html code lately, so if the site has looked a little messed up at times, I appologize! Bear with me, as I try to bring you the best that Guitar Ted Labratories can conjure up for you! Got some suggestions? Send them to seveneye7@mchsi.com Thanks!

Could Be the Next "Big Thing" For G.T. Part II

Well, here are the final pics released today by OnOne showing the new 29 inch wheeled Inbred frame. As you might see, the rear drop outs are sliders with an unusual tensioner built right in! Also note the rear derailluer hangar. This frame is "gearie" compatible, and that's how I would run it. It looks as though one of our distributors is getting these in, so I'll be keeping my eyes peeled for a price. If it's good, you just may see Guitar Ted on this thing! It'll look pretty cool with that new Bontrager Switchblade fork, don't you think?




I have been wrestling with html code lately, so if the site has looked a little messed up at times, I appologize! Bear with me, as I try to bring you the best that Guitar Ted Labratories can conjure up for you! Got some suggestions? Send them to seveneye7@mchsi.com Thanks!

Someone Is Watching!

It seems as though that a certain manufacturing conglomerate has been snooping around on some blogs on the ol' net here! Either that, or some cubicle ranger is wanderin' around on company time! You see, there are these little net-bots called trackers that'll let you know from where people are veiwing your schtuff! (Wish I'd a had that capability back in high school!) Anywhoo, it appears that said corporation has been at three different blogs, that I'm aware of, checking on some recent posts! Big Brother is Watching!!

Talking about the recent Trek Show on the mtbr.com forums has brought about a bit of controversy for the Guitar Ted Public Relations Department to deal with. Not to worry! G.T.P.R.D. has it all under control! We pride ourselves on quality, home grown journalism here at the palatial Guitar Ted Labratories. We do not use anything but the finest organically produced thoughts and feelings. Nothing like the mass produced drivel that passes for information elsewhere! No preservatives or un-natural chemicals here! If our stuff starts to smell, we throw it out! Bombs away!

I came across something of interest for those of you that reside in the Tri-State area. (That being, Iowa-Minnesota-Wisconsin) There is a mountain bike summit planned for September 9th and going through the 11th at Lebanon Hills Regional Park, in Minnesota. There will be planned mountain bike rides, commaraderie, and prizes! Check it out here!

Finally, something I've mentioned recently, but didn't link. (Bad Monkey!) I hope ya'all enjoy what you find in that zoo!

All righty then! Don't forget to give Mr. 24 some pre-Worlds love and support! He needs a hug!

Someone Is Watching!

It seems as though that a certain manufacturing conglomerate has been snooping around on some blogs on the ol' net here! Either that, or some cubicle ranger is wanderin' around on company time! You see, there are these little net-bots called trackers that'll let you know from where people are veiwing your schtuff! (Wish I'd a had that capability back in high school!) Anywhoo, it appears that said corporation has been at three different blogs, that I'm aware of, checking on some recent posts! Big Brother is Watching!!

Talking about the recent Trek Show on the mtbr.com forums has brought about a bit of controversy for the Guitar Ted Public Relations Department to deal with. Not to worry! G.T.P.R.D. has it all under control! We pride ourselves on quality, home grown journalism here at the palatial Guitar Ted Labratories. We do not use anything but the finest organically produced thoughts and feelings. Nothing like the mass produced drivel that passes for information elsewhere! No preservatives or un-natural chemicals here! If our stuff starts to smell, we throw it out! Bombs away!

I came across something of interest for those of you that reside in the Tri-State area. (That being, Iowa-Minnesota-Wisconsin) There is a mountain bike summit planned for September 9th and going through the 11th at Lebanon Hills Regional Park, in Minnesota. There will be planned mountain bike rides, commaraderie, and prizes! Check it out here!

Finally, something I've mentioned recently, but didn't link. (Bad Monkey!) I hope ya'all enjoy what you find in that zoo!

All righty then! Don't forget to give Mr. 24 some pre-Worlds love and support! He needs a hug!

Thoughts From The Show

Here are some of my impressions from Trek Show '05...............

1. Do we really need a 30 minute fashion show to introduce the '06 Nike line? I think we save the dealers and their employees from looking at female models with bodies that resemble something akin to sausage skins half filled with jello. I mean, did these people have their spines removed surgically? I can't even begin to stand with my hips out past my feet, and my shoulders behind my hips! Freaks! Freaks I Say!!

2. Then we have the amped up rave music, or whatever that noyze wuz. It makes U styoo-pid, that's fer shoo-yah. They playz-zit awl nite long, 2. Kah-ray-zay!

3. Show bikes that are pre-production, or pre-pre-production, or, as in at least one case, is a plastic model! This is great! Dealers come in to make purchasing decisions based on what might be! Yeah, take a look at this new "bike". Wanna sniff some glue? I don't think the joints are cured yet! Fantastic!

4. Road bikes re-invented! It's the "Lance" factor, or something, I guess because there are so many different road bike models that it'll make your head spin. "Okay, here we have the Pilot 5.2, which comes in a double OR a triple crank, flat bar OR a drop bar model, OR you could get a 5.2 Madone, OR you could get a Madone SL, of course there is the triple OR the double crank option...........AAAHHHHH!!!!!!!

3. Klein......yeah, ummm.....there over there, somewhere in an alleyway all by themselves.......mumble.....couple a models......OKAY! Let's move on, shall we!

4. Paper catalogs: In '04, we saw stacks and stacks of catalogs. This year.........(crickets)...........

5. Last year we could easily find a representative to answer any of our questions. This year was more like,"Hey! A little help over here. Do you mind?"........(crickets)........... "Thanks, Buddy!"

6. Paint jobs were pretty cool! I have to have a Fisher X-Cal frame and fork! Orange with green clearcoat, ARE YOU KIDDING! YES!!!!

7. Monona Center, where the show was held, is an awesome place. The veiw over the lake is spectacular. This is where we ate. They could feed me green jello with anchovies here and I'd think I was eating like a king! Stop by and check it out if your ever in Madison. Bonus: It was designed by some "special person", I think his name was Frank Lloyd something or other......Wright? I dunno.........

8. Due to the abscence of helpful Trek employees, Carlos and I were unable to acertain the proper procedure, or times for the dirt demo. Thanks, Buddies!

9. Hillary Duff was in Madison at the same time as I was. I'm sure, just sure that she had goosebumps. I could feel it!

10. Trek Factory Gnome, Zapata Espinosa was no where in sight! I looked for the little twirp, too! Someone did report that they saw him sitting in a chair, cooling his heels somewhere. Slacker!

11. Carlos and I took in the Trek Concept Store on the West side of Madison. If you ever get there, check out the bulletin board with black and whites of all the current employees. My favorite: Kitty, shown sitting on a toilet. Really nice! ( Well, you really don't see the toilet, but she looks like she is sitting next to a fixture holding a roll of toilet paper- so, you know....) Did I just write the word fixture?

Thoughts From The Show

Here are some of my impressions from Trek Show '05...............

1. Do we really need a 30 minute fashion show to introduce the '06 Nike line? I think we save the dealers and their employees from looking at female models with bodies that resemble something akin to sausage skins half filled with jello. I mean, did these people have their spines removed surgically? I can't even begin to stand with my hips out past my feet, and my shoulders behind my hips! Freaks! Freaks I Say!!

2. Then we have the amped up rave music, or whatever that noyze wuz. It makes U styoo-pid, that's fer shoo-yah. They playz-zit awl nite long, 2. Kah-ray-zay!

3. Show bikes that are pre-production, or pre-pre-production, or, as in at least one case, is a plastic model! This is great! Dealers come in to make purchasing decisions based on what might be! Yeah, take a look at this new "bike". Wanna sniff some glue? I don't think the joints are cured yet! Fantastic!

4. Road bikes re-invented! It's the "Lance" factor, or something, I guess because there are so many different road bike models that it'll make your head spin. "Okay, here we have the Pilot 5.2, which comes in a double OR a triple crank, flat bar OR a drop bar model, OR you could get a 5.2 Madone, OR you could get a Madone SL, of course there is the triple OR the double crank option...........AAAHHHHH!!!!!!!

3. Klein......yeah, ummm.....there over there, somewhere in an alleyway all by themselves.......mumble.....couple a models......OKAY! Let's move on, shall we!

4. Paper catalogs: In '04, we saw stacks and stacks of catalogs. This year.........(crickets)...........

5. Last year we could easily find a representative to answer any of our questions. This year was more like,"Hey! A little help over here. Do you mind?"........(crickets)........... "Thanks, Buddy!"

6. Paint jobs were pretty cool! I have to have a Fisher X-Cal frame and fork! Orange with green clearcoat, ARE YOU KIDDING! YES!!!!

7. Monona Center, where the show was held, is an awesome place. The veiw over the lake is spectacular. This is where we ate. They could feed me green jello with anchovies here and I'd think I was eating like a king! Stop by and check it out if your ever in Madison. Bonus: It was designed by some "special person", I think his name was Frank Lloyd something or other......Wright? I dunno.........

8. Due to the abscence of helpful Trek employees, Carlos and I were unable to acertain the proper procedure, or times for the dirt demo. Thanks, Buddies!

9. Hillary Duff was in Madison at the same time as I was. I'm sure, just sure that she had goosebumps. I could feel it!

10. Trek Factory Gnome, Zapata Espinosa was no where in sight! I looked for the little twirp, too! Someone did report that they saw him sitting in a chair, cooling his heels somewhere. Slacker!

11. Carlos and I took in the Trek Concept Store on the West side of Madison. If you ever get there, check out the bulletin board with black and whites of all the current employees. My favorite: Kitty, shown sitting on a toilet. Really nice! ( Well, you really don't see the toilet, but she looks like she is sitting next to a fixture holding a roll of toilet paper- so, you know....) Did I just write the word fixture?

Trek Show Madness!

An interesting bike in the rack out front. A one by three with a downturned hybrid riser bar.
Guitar Ted Productions

Enjoy some of the photos from the Trek show! More Later! I'm tired! OUT!

Trek Show Madness!

An interesting bike in the rack out front. A one by three with a downturned hybrid riser bar.
Guitar Ted Productions

Enjoy some of the photos from the Trek show! More Later! I'm tired! OUT!

Detail of three speed cassette.
Guitar Ted Productions

Detail of three speed cassette.
Guitar Ted Productions

From outside the show. Parked in the bike rack outside the main entrance was this Trek folder in Pave' flambe', with "J.B" on the frame. Perhaps it's Trek Presidente', John Burkes?
Guitar Ted Productions

From outside the show. Parked in the bike rack outside the main entrance was this Trek folder in Pave' flambe', with "J.B" on the frame. Perhaps it's Trek Presidente', John Burkes?
Guitar Ted Productions

An answer to Giant? Off-shore carbon from Trek at 1700 bucks!
Guitar Ted Productions

An answer to Giant? Off-shore carbon from Trek at 1700 bucks!
Guitar Ted Productions

The obligatory "Lance" bike: Available as a Project One paint job for a $750.00 upcharge at a Trek dealer near you!
Guitar Ted Productions

The obligatory "Lance" bike: Available as a Project One paint job for a $750.00 upcharge at a Trek dealer near you!
Guitar Ted Productions

I spotted this strange alien creature stowing away in a show attendees bag! Check out Monkeytron for more!
Guitar Ted Productions

I spotted this strange alien creature stowing away in a show attendees bag! Check out Monkeytron for more!
Guitar Ted Productions

Surprise bike! Trek Track Bike! Get'cher fixed gear freak on for a grand!
Guitar Ted Productions

Surprise bike! Trek Track Bike! Get'cher fixed gear freak on for a grand!
Guitar Ted Productions

Another "interesting" bike from Trek, the Soho. Hydro formed Aluminum, rubber inserts on sides of top-tube, (prevents dings from leaning up against stuff), Integrated U-lock handlebar, disc only, 1 x 9 drivetrain, and about 1000 buck-ohs.
Guitar Ted Productions

Another "interesting" bike from Trek, the Soho. Hydro formed Aluminum, rubber inserts on sides of top-tube, (prevents dings from leaning up against stuff), Integrated U-lock handlebar, disc only, 1 x 9 drivetrain, and about 1000 buck-ohs.
Guitar Ted Productions

The "almost 29"er" Montare, with Manitou South fork, sub 8 bills.
Guitar Ted Productions

The "almost 29"er" Montare, with Manitou South fork, sub 8 bills.
Guitar Ted Productions