Note: This has turned into a bit of a series! Today I will tie things up with my take on exactly how the "Cycling Industry" has got it wrong philosophically concerning "commuter/urban" cycling. Thanks for reading!
The "standard" equipment for these "commuter/urban" bikes being proffered by the industry of late seems to be of high quality and (unfortunately) high price. I have stated in my previous two posts how the price of entry for someone looking to start a cycling lifestyle as a "utilitarian user" of a bicycle is a negative. Why is there a seeming disconnect here? I think it's a rather simple situation and easy to understand if we look outside of cycling.
Generally speaking, if one wants to start an activity in the recreational/sports categories one starts by "testing the waters". For example: If you were to start fishing, and never have fished a day in your life, you most likely will get a "starter set" that provides you with all the necessary gear at a low price for entry. Now mind you, this is typically gear that a "serious" fisherman wouldn't be caught dead with. However; I think we can all agree that first time fishers are not going to buy a $300.00 reel, $200.00 pole, a fish finder, a boat, etc.... No, they are going to spend enough to get started, maybe a $100.00 total, get a license and drop their line in the local watering hole. This is where a lot of "fisherman" are made, from casual users that get "hooked" on the activity. (Sorry for the pun!) The same is true for golf, tennis, and several other sports. Sure, we all know that getting better equipment enhances your first time experience, but the high price of "real equipment" doesn't stop these segments from gaining new users. The cheaper, entry level stuff along with a healthy dose of encouragement/excitement help turn users into serious enthusiasts. Of course, a lot of folks don't ever get beyond the entry level stages, but at least there is an entry point that doesn't require a huge cash out lay to try things out.
An example of the opposite situation is skiing, where equipment costs have kept new users in the rentals, (which have been upgraded to pro level stuff, so why buy anyway?) and access to the slopes has been getting more expensive as well. If it weren't for rental equipment, I'd wager the ski industry would be far, far smaller than it is today due to the high cost of entry into the sport.
So, while conventional cycling industry wisdom is to get these folks on commuter bikes that are of high quality with parts that will be reliable and work, reality is that the price for entry is way too high to attain this. So, is the cycling industry prepared to provide rentals and live off of high end commuter sales, or is there another way? I say that there is another, better way.
In my experience the new user of a bicycle has a couple of common traits that should tip off the industry to where to go with utilitarian bikes. First of all, most folks don't know what to do with derailleur drive trains. They are confusing and seem unnecessary to a new user. A lot of folks are looking for simplicity. This is where the Shimano Coasting idea is right, but the price is still too high, and the design is too user unfriendly. Unfriendly? Yes, I dare you to hand a Coasting bike to a new user and have them remove a wheel in less than an hour. Really, it's not intuitive or simple and that defeats the purpose in my mind. I know, I own a Coasting bike, and even I think it's a bit wonky.
Which leads me to point #2: People are afraid of flats. New users have no idea what to do when it comes to flats, and lets be honest, nothing ruins a buzz on your ride like an untimely flat. New users that are putting a bicycle to utilitarian uses can ill afford a flat at anytime. So, a system of foam filled tires, or something similar would take that complaint right out of the conversation. While "cyclists" will scoff at such heresy, new users will see it as a benefit. Heavy tires/wheels as a benefit? Yes. The industry needs to look into a cheap way to do this for new users. Until they become cyclists and want something better, (lighter/easier to pedal), utility and practicality where they are at in life is paramount.
Which leads me to point #3: New users of bicycles are not as afraid of "work" as you might think. I have noticed on several occasions where new users of bikes will buy a derailleur equipped rig, put it in a gear, (Usually, but not exclusively the highest/hardest gear) and ride it till the cows come home. I have seen on several occasions where people who actually enjoy "cycling" and call themselves "cyclists" are going at a sub 50 cadence down the bike path. Typical cycling wisdom would say these people need education and are using bicycles in a manner that is on the other side of "right". Well, I say at least they are using a bike! If we could just get out of our own way and realize that new users are just fine with single speed coaster brakes, we might just see an increase in users and eventually cyclists. A single speed utility bicycle with a simple coaster brake, high tensile steel frame that is strong, cheap, and heavy, and can do some work because it's outfitted with a rack and a kickstand would be the ticket. Never mind that it might weigh 40lbs, or be geared too high. Folks that are new users will just think they are getting a good work out. Really.
In conclusion: If the cycling industry wants to get people on board with using a bicycle as a daily "tool", then it needs to provide an easy, cheap point of entry, not unlike other sporting goods segments do. It needs to create a pool of "users" of bicycles which can grow into "cyclists", or enthusiasts later. Trying to jump a new user from zero to cycling enthusiast in one leap is not really working. Users first- cyclists second.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Commuter Bikes: They've Got It All Wrong! Part III
Note: This has turned into a bit of a series! Today I will tie things up with my take on exactly how the "Cycling Industry" has got it wrong philosophically concerning "commuter/urban" cycling. Thanks for reading!
The "standard" equipment for these "commuter/urban" bikes being proffered by the industry of late seems to be of high quality and (unfortunately) high price. I have stated in my previous two posts how the price of entry for someone looking to start a cycling lifestyle as a "utilitarian user" of a bicycle is a negative. Why is there a seeming disconnect here? I think it's a rather simple situation and easy to understand if we look outside of cycling.
Generally speaking, if one wants to start an activity in the recreational/sports categories one starts by "testing the waters". For example: If you were to start fishing, and never have fished a day in your life, you most likely will get a "starter set" that provides you with all the necessary gear at a low price for entry. Now mind you, this is typically gear that a "serious" fisherman wouldn't be caught dead with. However; I think we can all agree that first time fishers are not going to buy a $300.00 reel, $200.00 pole, a fish finder, a boat, etc.... No, they are going to spend enough to get started, maybe a $100.00 total, get a license and drop their line in the local watering hole. This is where a lot of "fisherman" are made, from casual users that get "hooked" on the activity. (Sorry for the pun!) The same is true for golf, tennis, and several other sports. Sure, we all know that getting better equipment enhances your first time experience, but the high price of "real equipment" doesn't stop these segments from gaining new users. The cheaper, entry level stuff along with a healthy dose of encouragement/excitement help turn users into serious enthusiasts. Of course, a lot of folks don't ever get beyond the entry level stages, but at least there is an entry point that doesn't require a huge cash out lay to try things out.
An example of the opposite situation is skiing, where equipment costs have kept new users in the rentals, (which have been upgraded to pro level stuff, so why buy anyway?) and access to the slopes has been getting more expensive as well. If it weren't for rental equipment, I'd wager the ski industry would be far, far smaller than it is today due to the high cost of entry into the sport.
So, while conventional cycling industry wisdom is to get these folks on commuter bikes that are of high quality with parts that will be reliable and work, reality is that the price for entry is way too high to attain this. So, is the cycling industry prepared to provide rentals and live off of high end commuter sales, or is there another way? I say that there is another, better way.
In my experience the new user of a bicycle has a couple of common traits that should tip off the industry to where to go with utilitarian bikes. First of all, most folks don't know what to do with derailleur drive trains. They are confusing and seem unnecessary to a new user. A lot of folks are looking for simplicity. This is where the Shimano Coasting idea is right, but the price is still too high, and the design is too user unfriendly. Unfriendly? Yes, I dare you to hand a Coasting bike to a new user and have them remove a wheel in less than an hour. Really, it's not intuitive or simple and that defeats the purpose in my mind. I know, I own a Coasting bike, and even I think it's a bit wonky.
Which leads me to point #2: People are afraid of flats. New users have no idea what to do when it comes to flats, and lets be honest, nothing ruins a buzz on your ride like an untimely flat. New users that are putting a bicycle to utilitarian uses can ill afford a flat at anytime. So, a system of foam filled tires, or something similar would take that complaint right out of the conversation. While "cyclists" will scoff at such heresy, new users will see it as a benefit. Heavy tires/wheels as a benefit? Yes. The industry needs to look into a cheap way to do this for new users. Until they become cyclists and want something better, (lighter/easier to pedal), utility and practicality where they are at in life is paramount.
Which leads me to point #3: New users of bicycles are not as afraid of "work" as you might think. I have noticed on several occasions where new users of bikes will buy a derailleur equipped rig, put it in a gear, (Usually, but not exclusively the highest/hardest gear) and ride it till the cows come home. I have seen on several occasions where people who actually enjoy "cycling" and call themselves "cyclists" are going at a sub 50 cadence down the bike path. Typical cycling wisdom would say these people need education and are using bicycles in a manner that is on the other side of "right". Well, I say at least they are using a bike! If we could just get out of our own way and realize that new users are just fine with single speed coaster brakes, we might just see an increase in users and eventually cyclists. A single speed utility bicycle with a simple coaster brake, high tensile steel frame that is strong, cheap, and heavy, and can do some work because it's outfitted with a rack and a kickstand would be the ticket. Never mind that it might weigh 40lbs, or be geared too high. Folks that are new users will just think they are getting a good work out. Really.
In conclusion: If the cycling industry wants to get people on board with using a bicycle as a daily "tool", then it needs to provide an easy, cheap point of entry, not unlike other sporting goods segments do. It needs to create a pool of "users" of bicycles which can grow into "cyclists", or enthusiasts later. Trying to jump a new user from zero to cycling enthusiast in one leap is not really working. Users first- cyclists second.
The "standard" equipment for these "commuter/urban" bikes being proffered by the industry of late seems to be of high quality and (unfortunately) high price. I have stated in my previous two posts how the price of entry for someone looking to start a cycling lifestyle as a "utilitarian user" of a bicycle is a negative. Why is there a seeming disconnect here? I think it's a rather simple situation and easy to understand if we look outside of cycling.
Generally speaking, if one wants to start an activity in the recreational/sports categories one starts by "testing the waters". For example: If you were to start fishing, and never have fished a day in your life, you most likely will get a "starter set" that provides you with all the necessary gear at a low price for entry. Now mind you, this is typically gear that a "serious" fisherman wouldn't be caught dead with. However; I think we can all agree that first time fishers are not going to buy a $300.00 reel, $200.00 pole, a fish finder, a boat, etc.... No, they are going to spend enough to get started, maybe a $100.00 total, get a license and drop their line in the local watering hole. This is where a lot of "fisherman" are made, from casual users that get "hooked" on the activity. (Sorry for the pun!) The same is true for golf, tennis, and several other sports. Sure, we all know that getting better equipment enhances your first time experience, but the high price of "real equipment" doesn't stop these segments from gaining new users. The cheaper, entry level stuff along with a healthy dose of encouragement/excitement help turn users into serious enthusiasts. Of course, a lot of folks don't ever get beyond the entry level stages, but at least there is an entry point that doesn't require a huge cash out lay to try things out.
An example of the opposite situation is skiing, where equipment costs have kept new users in the rentals, (which have been upgraded to pro level stuff, so why buy anyway?) and access to the slopes has been getting more expensive as well. If it weren't for rental equipment, I'd wager the ski industry would be far, far smaller than it is today due to the high cost of entry into the sport.
So, while conventional cycling industry wisdom is to get these folks on commuter bikes that are of high quality with parts that will be reliable and work, reality is that the price for entry is way too high to attain this. So, is the cycling industry prepared to provide rentals and live off of high end commuter sales, or is there another way? I say that there is another, better way.
In my experience the new user of a bicycle has a couple of common traits that should tip off the industry to where to go with utilitarian bikes. First of all, most folks don't know what to do with derailleur drive trains. They are confusing and seem unnecessary to a new user. A lot of folks are looking for simplicity. This is where the Shimano Coasting idea is right, but the price is still too high, and the design is too user unfriendly. Unfriendly? Yes, I dare you to hand a Coasting bike to a new user and have them remove a wheel in less than an hour. Really, it's not intuitive or simple and that defeats the purpose in my mind. I know, I own a Coasting bike, and even I think it's a bit wonky.
Which leads me to point #2: People are afraid of flats. New users have no idea what to do when it comes to flats, and lets be honest, nothing ruins a buzz on your ride like an untimely flat. New users that are putting a bicycle to utilitarian uses can ill afford a flat at anytime. So, a system of foam filled tires, or something similar would take that complaint right out of the conversation. While "cyclists" will scoff at such heresy, new users will see it as a benefit. Heavy tires/wheels as a benefit? Yes. The industry needs to look into a cheap way to do this for new users. Until they become cyclists and want something better, (lighter/easier to pedal), utility and practicality where they are at in life is paramount.
Which leads me to point #3: New users of bicycles are not as afraid of "work" as you might think. I have noticed on several occasions where new users of bikes will buy a derailleur equipped rig, put it in a gear, (Usually, but not exclusively the highest/hardest gear) and ride it till the cows come home. I have seen on several occasions where people who actually enjoy "cycling" and call themselves "cyclists" are going at a sub 50 cadence down the bike path. Typical cycling wisdom would say these people need education and are using bicycles in a manner that is on the other side of "right". Well, I say at least they are using a bike! If we could just get out of our own way and realize that new users are just fine with single speed coaster brakes, we might just see an increase in users and eventually cyclists. A single speed utility bicycle with a simple coaster brake, high tensile steel frame that is strong, cheap, and heavy, and can do some work because it's outfitted with a rack and a kickstand would be the ticket. Never mind that it might weigh 40lbs, or be geared too high. Folks that are new users will just think they are getting a good work out. Really.
In conclusion: If the cycling industry wants to get people on board with using a bicycle as a daily "tool", then it needs to provide an easy, cheap point of entry, not unlike other sporting goods segments do. It needs to create a pool of "users" of bicycles which can grow into "cyclists", or enthusiasts later. Trying to jump a new user from zero to cycling enthusiast in one leap is not really working. Users first- cyclists second.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Special Announcement!
GO TO THE TRANS IOWA WEBSITE ON HALLOWEEN AT MIDNIGHT FOR A SPECIAL TRICK OR TREAT!!
Special Announcement!
GO TO THE TRANS IOWA WEBSITE ON HALLOWEEN AT MIDNIGHT FOR A SPECIAL TRICK OR TREAT!!
Commuter Bikes: They've Got It All Wrong! Part II
I had an interesting comment left from yesterday's post that I had a reply to and found out my comment wouldn't upload to my own blog! Well.............anyway, I figured I'd just turn it into a regular post. So here you go. The first bit is an excerpt from the comment that I wanted to respond to. My response will follow.
"No matter how bikes are marketed, sooner or later people come to the realization that it's sometimes WORK to ride them. Wind in your face, rear-end is gonna initially hurt, trial and error equipment preference 'til you sort it all out, legs are going to feel like rubber-bands, you're gonna show up where you need to go sweaty, it just might take you longer to get there, might get lost on the way trying to figure out a good route... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it.
The best commuter is comfortable, ugly, preferably inexpensive, something you don't really care ALL that much about, and is reliable. When riding your ugly but trusty bike, there will be days when commuting might just suck. Hmmm... how would you go about marketing that? "
ken y
First of all, "ken" goes into the physical complaints that a new user might have in regards to riding a bike for utilitarian purposes. Well, I would submit that a very large percentage of "cyclists" go through this ritual every spring. Pain in getting back into "cycling shape" is common, and most of the customers frequenting the shop I work at go through it. Every year. So yeah, there is that physical barrier to cycling that a lot of us that have tried the sport know about. The thing is, we're talking about folks that have not ridden bicycles for a long, long time. That's the point behind the Coasting idea. That's the people Shimano is supposedly trying to market to, and that's the market they are missing, as I pointed out yesterday.
These people haven't got a clue as to what will or won't hurt. They are all still in their cars. Yes, they would find out that there is a physical price to pay for riding, but if the payoff is good, the pain will be worth it. Even "ken" alludes to some of this when he writes "... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it." The sense of autonomy and practicality have to be seen in the activity for most to deem the physical part worth it as a utilitarian form of transport. That and the rising price of gas will no doubt start to motivate more and more to consider a bicycle.
However; my point yesterday was that the bicycle we have to offer is aimed at what "cyclists" deem necessary and not what new users feel they need, or are comfortable with. The Coasting bikes are close, particularly Raleigh's offering, but still way too expensive and too complex. (Fix the wheel attachment situation, for one thing) The bike needs to be like a wrench, hammer, or screwdriver: nothing flashy, complex, or task specific, just a tool that's easy to use and own. This is also something that "ken" touches on in his comment that I agree with.
Now as for the marketing of this: well let's just say that it could be done. It has to be done in a very different way than we see in cycling today though. What I see is cyclists preaching to cyclists. We don't need that sort of inbred marketing strategy. We need to talk to the guy in the Hummer, the gal that uses her car to drive down the street to pick up a pack of smokes, and to the kids behind the gaming consoles. We need to find a way to make riding a bike make sense to them from a utilitarian standpoint, not a cycling one. Make users first, the cyclists will happen later. That's my take.
Blog News: Here's a couple of new sites that I found really interesting from a cycling and personal standpoint. First up we have a couple of guys challenging themselves to go "car free" in the month of November. The site is still under construction, but this could be cool.......really cool! (It will happen in the month of November in Michigan and Iowa, for crying out loud!)
Secondly, there is a new bike shop being "born" here in the Mid-West. Take a look to see what a fellow big wheeled nut has up his sleeve here and follow the progress.
"No matter how bikes are marketed, sooner or later people come to the realization that it's sometimes WORK to ride them. Wind in your face, rear-end is gonna initially hurt, trial and error equipment preference 'til you sort it all out, legs are going to feel like rubber-bands, you're gonna show up where you need to go sweaty, it just might take you longer to get there, might get lost on the way trying to figure out a good route... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it.
The best commuter is comfortable, ugly, preferably inexpensive, something you don't really care ALL that much about, and is reliable. When riding your ugly but trusty bike, there will be days when commuting might just suck. Hmmm... how would you go about marketing that? "
ken y
First of all, "ken" goes into the physical complaints that a new user might have in regards to riding a bike for utilitarian purposes. Well, I would submit that a very large percentage of "cyclists" go through this ritual every spring. Pain in getting back into "cycling shape" is common, and most of the customers frequenting the shop I work at go through it. Every year. So yeah, there is that physical barrier to cycling that a lot of us that have tried the sport know about. The thing is, we're talking about folks that have not ridden bicycles for a long, long time. That's the point behind the Coasting idea. That's the people Shimano is supposedly trying to market to, and that's the market they are missing, as I pointed out yesterday.
These people haven't got a clue as to what will or won't hurt. They are all still in their cars. Yes, they would find out that there is a physical price to pay for riding, but if the payoff is good, the pain will be worth it. Even "ken" alludes to some of this when he writes "... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it." The sense of autonomy and practicality have to be seen in the activity for most to deem the physical part worth it as a utilitarian form of transport. That and the rising price of gas will no doubt start to motivate more and more to consider a bicycle.
However; my point yesterday was that the bicycle we have to offer is aimed at what "cyclists" deem necessary and not what new users feel they need, or are comfortable with. The Coasting bikes are close, particularly Raleigh's offering, but still way too expensive and too complex. (Fix the wheel attachment situation, for one thing) The bike needs to be like a wrench, hammer, or screwdriver: nothing flashy, complex, or task specific, just a tool that's easy to use and own. This is also something that "ken" touches on in his comment that I agree with.
Now as for the marketing of this: well let's just say that it could be done. It has to be done in a very different way than we see in cycling today though. What I see is cyclists preaching to cyclists. We don't need that sort of inbred marketing strategy. We need to talk to the guy in the Hummer, the gal that uses her car to drive down the street to pick up a pack of smokes, and to the kids behind the gaming consoles. We need to find a way to make riding a bike make sense to them from a utilitarian standpoint, not a cycling one. Make users first, the cyclists will happen later. That's my take.
Blog News: Here's a couple of new sites that I found really interesting from a cycling and personal standpoint. First up we have a couple of guys challenging themselves to go "car free" in the month of November. The site is still under construction, but this could be cool.......really cool! (It will happen in the month of November in Michigan and Iowa, for crying out loud!)
Secondly, there is a new bike shop being "born" here in the Mid-West. Take a look to see what a fellow big wheeled nut has up his sleeve here and follow the progress.
Commuter Bikes: They've Got It All Wrong! Part II
I had an interesting comment left from yesterday's post that I had a reply to and found out my comment wouldn't upload to my own blog! Well.............anyway, I figured I'd just turn it into a regular post. So here you go. The first bit is an excerpt from the comment that I wanted to respond to. My response will follow.
"No matter how bikes are marketed, sooner or later people come to the realization that it's sometimes WORK to ride them. Wind in your face, rear-end is gonna initially hurt, trial and error equipment preference 'til you sort it all out, legs are going to feel like rubber-bands, you're gonna show up where you need to go sweaty, it just might take you longer to get there, might get lost on the way trying to figure out a good route... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it.
The best commuter is comfortable, ugly, preferably inexpensive, something you don't really care ALL that much about, and is reliable. When riding your ugly but trusty bike, there will be days when commuting might just suck. Hmmm... how would you go about marketing that? "
ken y
First of all, "ken" goes into the physical complaints that a new user might have in regards to riding a bike for utilitarian purposes. Well, I would submit that a very large percentage of "cyclists" go through this ritual every spring. Pain in getting back into "cycling shape" is common, and most of the customers frequenting the shop I work at go through it. Every year. So yeah, there is that physical barrier to cycling that a lot of us that have tried the sport know about. The thing is, we're talking about folks that have not ridden bicycles for a long, long time. That's the point behind the Coasting idea. That's the people Shimano is supposedly trying to market to, and that's the market they are missing, as I pointed out yesterday.
These people haven't got a clue as to what will or won't hurt. They are all still in their cars. Yes, they would find out that there is a physical price to pay for riding, but if the payoff is good, the pain will be worth it. Even "ken" alludes to some of this when he writes "... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it." The sense of autonomy and practicality have to be seen in the activity for most to deem the physical part worth it as a utilitarian form of transport. That and the rising price of gas will no doubt start to motivate more and more to consider a bicycle.
However; my point yesterday was that the bicycle we have to offer is aimed at what "cyclists" deem necessary and not what new users feel they need, or are comfortable with. The Coasting bikes are close, particularly Raleigh's offering, but still way too expensive and too complex. (Fix the wheel attachment situation, for one thing) The bike needs to be like a wrench, hammer, or screwdriver: nothing flashy, complex, or task specific, just a tool that's easy to use and own. This is also something that "ken" touches on in his comment that I agree with.
Now as for the marketing of this: well let's just say that it could be done. It has to be done in a very different way than we see in cycling today though. What I see is cyclists preaching to cyclists. We don't need that sort of inbred marketing strategy. We need to talk to the guy in the Hummer, the gal that uses her car to drive down the street to pick up a pack of smokes, and to the kids behind the gaming consoles. We need to find a way to make riding a bike make sense to them from a utilitarian standpoint, not a cycling one. Make users first, the cyclists will happen later. That's my take.
Blog News: Here's a couple of new sites that I found really interesting from a cycling and personal standpoint. First up we have a couple of guys challenging themselves to go "car free" in the month of November. The site is still under construction, but this could be cool.......really cool! (It will happen in the month of November in Michigan and Iowa, for crying out loud!)
Secondly, there is a new bike shop being "born" here in the Mid-West. Take a look to see what a fellow big wheeled nut has up his sleeve here and follow the progress.
"No matter how bikes are marketed, sooner or later people come to the realization that it's sometimes WORK to ride them. Wind in your face, rear-end is gonna initially hurt, trial and error equipment preference 'til you sort it all out, legs are going to feel like rubber-bands, you're gonna show up where you need to go sweaty, it just might take you longer to get there, might get lost on the way trying to figure out a good route... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it.
The best commuter is comfortable, ugly, preferably inexpensive, something you don't really care ALL that much about, and is reliable. When riding your ugly but trusty bike, there will be days when commuting might just suck. Hmmm... how would you go about marketing that? "
ken y
First of all, "ken" goes into the physical complaints that a new user might have in regards to riding a bike for utilitarian purposes. Well, I would submit that a very large percentage of "cyclists" go through this ritual every spring. Pain in getting back into "cycling shape" is common, and most of the customers frequenting the shop I work at go through it. Every year. So yeah, there is that physical barrier to cycling that a lot of us that have tried the sport know about. The thing is, we're talking about folks that have not ridden bicycles for a long, long time. That's the point behind the Coasting idea. That's the people Shimano is supposedly trying to market to, and that's the market they are missing, as I pointed out yesterday.
These people haven't got a clue as to what will or won't hurt. They are all still in their cars. Yes, they would find out that there is a physical price to pay for riding, but if the payoff is good, the pain will be worth it. Even "ken" alludes to some of this when he writes "... but oh so gratifying cause you did it on your own and you did it." The sense of autonomy and practicality have to be seen in the activity for most to deem the physical part worth it as a utilitarian form of transport. That and the rising price of gas will no doubt start to motivate more and more to consider a bicycle.
However; my point yesterday was that the bicycle we have to offer is aimed at what "cyclists" deem necessary and not what new users feel they need, or are comfortable with. The Coasting bikes are close, particularly Raleigh's offering, but still way too expensive and too complex. (Fix the wheel attachment situation, for one thing) The bike needs to be like a wrench, hammer, or screwdriver: nothing flashy, complex, or task specific, just a tool that's easy to use and own. This is also something that "ken" touches on in his comment that I agree with.
Now as for the marketing of this: well let's just say that it could be done. It has to be done in a very different way than we see in cycling today though. What I see is cyclists preaching to cyclists. We don't need that sort of inbred marketing strategy. We need to talk to the guy in the Hummer, the gal that uses her car to drive down the street to pick up a pack of smokes, and to the kids behind the gaming consoles. We need to find a way to make riding a bike make sense to them from a utilitarian standpoint, not a cycling one. Make users first, the cyclists will happen later. That's my take.
Blog News: Here's a couple of new sites that I found really interesting from a cycling and personal standpoint. First up we have a couple of guys challenging themselves to go "car free" in the month of November. The site is still under construction, but this could be cool.......really cool! (It will happen in the month of November in Michigan and Iowa, for crying out loud!)
Secondly, there is a new bike shop being "born" here in the Mid-West. Take a look to see what a fellow big wheeled nut has up his sleeve here and follow the progress.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Commuter Bikes: They've Got It All Wrong!
(Picture Credit: Image snagged from Bicycle Retailer and Industry News site)
Rant Mode: ON...Okay, that's it! I've had enough and I ain't takin' it no more! This silly notion that if you make a "commuter bike" and offer it for sale it gives you some sort of "green credibility". Bah! I ain't buyin' this load of crap. Take a look at this image. It's a Chanel commuter bike, yes....that Chanel! You know...."Chanel No. 5"? Yeah........whatever!
And while I'm on the subject of these so called "commuter" bikes, who the heck is buying these things and actually commuting on them? C'mon, these rigs cost waaay too much money for the average joe that might actually get something out of commuting, or have to commute. The name "commuter bikes" is all wrong too. What is that anyway? "Commute" sounds like something you do at church, not anything I'd do with a bicycle, well, not legally anyway.
No, the industry has it all wrong. These self congratulatory "commuter/urban" rigs are cool .....to bike freaks! But let's be honest, a bike freak would ride to work on a Schwinn Typhoon if it was thought to be cool by his buddies. No, we're looking to get people out of their shiny metal/plastic/rubber boxes and out on something human powered with two wheels, or we ought to be. A "utility" bike, a bike that is practical, useful, and most of all cheap! That's what we need. A $250.00 rig that has sensible design, (read: not some funky Trek Lime modernistic take on two wheeled transpo) a dead simple drivetrain, (read: single speed, or at most a 3 speed internal geared hub), and is made with a coaster brake or a good canti set up. Something a step above "mart" bikes and maybe made from aluminum or high tensile steel. Fenders, kickstand, and reasonable, long lasting , tough tires. Sound heavy? Sound un-cool? Sound stupid? Good! Because bike geeks won't like it, and they shouldn't.
Who this bike is for are the people Shimano said they were after with the Coasting group. Great concept, bad execution. Don't get me wrong here. The Coasting stuff is super cool and fun to ride, but that's the problem. It appeals to bike people, and bike people don't need the "Good Word". We already "get it". It's the people out in those gas guzzling cars that we need to get on bikes, and they don't really care about what we care about. A bike has to be seen as something useful, advantageous to use, and practical to own. What good is a Coasting bike for riding to work, getting a gallon of milk, or to just cruise around on if you get a flat tire? Not too many people would have the first idea of how to get the wheel off of the thing.
So, get off of your "high horse", you industry wonks, and figure this thing out. Heck, the bikes going out to World Bicycle Relief have more common sense than a Coasting bike, a European fully decked out commuter rig, or for cryin' out loud, that Chanel bike! Lets get a dead simple, easy to maintain, cheap bike for the masses. Make like Henry Ford did with the Model T. A no frills, get er duuun rig. Build up a pool of "utilitarian cyclists" and then see your market base expand. Make ordinary people into users first, "cyclists" second. That's my take.
Rant Mode: OFF!
Commuter Bikes: They've Got It All Wrong!
(Picture Credit: Image snagged from Bicycle Retailer and Industry News site)
Rant Mode: ON...Okay, that's it! I've had enough and I ain't takin' it no more! This silly notion that if you make a "commuter bike" and offer it for sale it gives you some sort of "green credibility". Bah! I ain't buyin' this load of crap. Take a look at this image. It's a Chanel commuter bike, yes....that Chanel! You know...."Chanel No. 5"? Yeah........whatever!
And while I'm on the subject of these so called "commuter" bikes, who the heck is buying these things and actually commuting on them? C'mon, these rigs cost waaay too much money for the average joe that might actually get something out of commuting, or have to commute. The name "commuter bikes" is all wrong too. What is that anyway? "Commute" sounds like something you do at church, not anything I'd do with a bicycle, well, not legally anyway.
No, the industry has it all wrong. These self congratulatory "commuter/urban" rigs are cool .....to bike freaks! But let's be honest, a bike freak would ride to work on a Schwinn Typhoon if it was thought to be cool by his buddies. No, we're looking to get people out of their shiny metal/plastic/rubber boxes and out on something human powered with two wheels, or we ought to be. A "utility" bike, a bike that is practical, useful, and most of all cheap! That's what we need. A $250.00 rig that has sensible design, (read: not some funky Trek Lime modernistic take on two wheeled transpo) a dead simple drivetrain, (read: single speed, or at most a 3 speed internal geared hub), and is made with a coaster brake or a good canti set up. Something a step above "mart" bikes and maybe made from aluminum or high tensile steel. Fenders, kickstand, and reasonable, long lasting , tough tires. Sound heavy? Sound un-cool? Sound stupid? Good! Because bike geeks won't like it, and they shouldn't.
Who this bike is for are the people Shimano said they were after with the Coasting group. Great concept, bad execution. Don't get me wrong here. The Coasting stuff is super cool and fun to ride, but that's the problem. It appeals to bike people, and bike people don't need the "Good Word". We already "get it". It's the people out in those gas guzzling cars that we need to get on bikes, and they don't really care about what we care about. A bike has to be seen as something useful, advantageous to use, and practical to own. What good is a Coasting bike for riding to work, getting a gallon of milk, or to just cruise around on if you get a flat tire? Not too many people would have the first idea of how to get the wheel off of the thing.
So, get off of your "high horse", you industry wonks, and figure this thing out. Heck, the bikes going out to World Bicycle Relief have more common sense than a Coasting bike, a European fully decked out commuter rig, or for cryin' out loud, that Chanel bike! Lets get a dead simple, easy to maintain, cheap bike for the masses. Make like Henry Ford did with the Model T. A no frills, get er duuun rig. Build up a pool of "utilitarian cyclists" and then see your market base expand. Make ordinary people into users first, "cyclists" second. That's my take.
Rant Mode: OFF!
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: A Few Pics!
Finally got the camera to download these. Here's the few meager pics I have to share!
The start in Marengo. We raised a few eyebrows of the orange clad gun toters! They were all hittin' up breakfast at Doose's Cafe, just to the left of the view here. Most of them probably had never seen anything like us freaks before!
Here's a short break from the gravely goodness in the wee hours just before dawn. That's d.p. just ahead of me. The rest of the group had just made a sharp right hander up a gravel road before I snapped this pic. Although it had rained just hours previous to our passing, the roads were in excellent shape.
Here's a better shot of what the sky actually looked like. Yes, that dot above the white vertical line is d.p. again.
A victim of the cold. This snake was motionless, assumed dead, although no one would bother to try and handle it. I even provoked someone to try, but got no takers.
I'm thinking it was dead. Tail looked smashed and at 42 degrees, reptiles probably don't last too long on heat sucking gravel. Just a guess though.
I think the snake represented my day. Snakebitten! I'll be back to tackle those hills some other day, you can be assured of that!
Oh yeah, even though I had to bail out, I did stop and have a silent toast of Stranahan's to one gal who wished she woulda been there. Stopped at a bridge over the Iowa River and did a couple shots worth. Seemed appropriate. Get well soon, Em!
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: A Few Pics!
Finally got the camera to download these. Here's the few meager pics I have to share!
The start in Marengo. We raised a few eyebrows of the orange clad gun toters! They were all hittin' up breakfast at Doose's Cafe, just to the left of the view here. Most of them probably had never seen anything like us freaks before!
Here's a short break from the gravely goodness in the wee hours just before dawn. That's d.p. just ahead of me. The rest of the group had just made a sharp right hander up a gravel road before I snapped this pic. Although it had rained just hours previous to our passing, the roads were in excellent shape.
Here's a better shot of what the sky actually looked like. Yes, that dot above the white vertical line is d.p. again.
A victim of the cold. This snake was motionless, assumed dead, although no one would bother to try and handle it. I even provoked someone to try, but got no takers.
I'm thinking it was dead. Tail looked smashed and at 42 degrees, reptiles probably don't last too long on heat sucking gravel. Just a guess though.
I think the snake represented my day. Snakebitten! I'll be back to tackle those hills some other day, you can be assured of that!
Oh yeah, even though I had to bail out, I did stop and have a silent toast of Stranahan's to one gal who wished she woulda been there. Stopped at a bridge over the Iowa River and did a couple shots worth. Seemed appropriate. Get well soon, Em!
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: A Report
Well the tune up ride went off without much drama. I've got some pics, but my computer and card reader are not getting along well today, so maybe some other time for that. Anyway, here's the story as far as I know it.........
Went to bed early on Friday night because of the travel and early start on Saturday at 6:00am. I woke up about 10:30pm all hot and sweaty. Checked my temperature. Nope! Normal. Wierd, but I felt fine otherwise. Got up at dark-thirty and saw that it had rained. Yikes! I check the radar and it shows clearing skies and a temperature of 52 F. That's good! I load up a cereal bowl and chow down before getting all the gear loaded up for the hour and fifteen minute trip down to Marengo. I saw one deer that I had to brake pretty hard for. She looked like she was going to try and goacross the road but changed her mind at the last minute. Whew! Always a worry this time in Iowa. Lots of critters getting smashed on the roads including deer. Glad I missed that one.
I got to Marengo a little early and I fumbled around in the dark with some of my gear. A police car cruises by taking a long slow look at me. Hmm...........I see Doose's Cafe is already open. Thought they didn't open until 6am? Well, the cops go in and at least they are satisfied that I am not a threat to national security. The sky is clear and a lone dog howls at the full moon. Perfect!
Later I see a truck pull up and a rider on a bike. It's a couple of Trans Iowa vets and a guy from Milwaukee showing up, then David Pals. Then Paul and Matt. Good sized group. We're all about to take off when I get a phone call. It's a couple more guys coming in a little late. We are waiting for 6:00am and right as we're about to pull out, the two late arrivals show, so we waited some more. I think we finally got off at about 6:30am. Hey! No worries. It's just a ride, ya know?
So, nine guys and enough blinking red lights to make you go crazy! Ha! Well, we attracted a lot of attention from hunters getting ready for their first day of pheasant hunting season to start. That explained Doose's early opening! We head out of town and right where I always see deer when I come to Marengo doesn't dissappoint. Deer! Running in the ditch and up over the dike. Could barely see them in the dark.
Heading north into the 15mph-20mph wind. We're drafting on the pavement, but still working hard. It's chilly and windy which is always harder than warm and windy, at least I think so. We hit the first gravel. Straight up! It's hard to tell what the gradient is or how far you have to go up in the dark. You just find a rhythm and go. Lots of hills to strt out with and we're not rolling real fast.
I'm not feeling too snappy, but then again I'm a slow starter, so I'm not worried at this point. The sun starts to rise and the terrain is discernable. I found myself at the back with David Pals on a section of pavement where I took some pics from the bike. Then we made it to the top of another long grinder to find the group waiting for us. I knew the next three miles would be killer hills. I was getting a bit worried as I didn't seem to be coming in, still sluggish. I ate something and that seemed to help. We get over the nasty hills and stopped again to regroup. I ate something again, as I was really hungry. Not a good sign!
We were working a pretty solid wind and everyone was grinding along at about 11-12mph, (according to my crap computer) and not much conversation was had. Finally we turned west for a long stretch. It was daylight, windy, and the temps had fallen into the low 40's. The hills were more like what I'm used to, but I just was getting worse with every mile. Finally, on a little rise that I wouldn't have normally noticed I find myself in the lowest gear in the middle ring, contemplating going into the granny ring. My legs are shot, and the group is dropping me like a bad habit.
They all stopped at an intersection where there was some confusion and I caught back on. I told David I was cooked and I was going back. That's the thing, I could have slogged on till I was completely unable to continue, but you are responsible for yourself on these gigs, so I had to pull the plug at a point where I knew I could make it back on my own.
Well, it's a good thing I did. Even with flat terrain, food in my belly from Belle Plain, and a tail wind, I still took as long to get back as I did to get to the point where I bailed out. I was stopping every two to three miles resting my legs, which were hurting like.........well, let's just say they've never hurt like that! I almost passed out once too, before I ate, so I think I was headed for bonkville and I may have a stinkin' cold on top of it. Whatever it is, it ended my day early.
I saw lots and lots of hunters on my way back and all of them looked surprised to see a biker out on the gravel. Hey! It's a multi use trail! Ha ha! Sounded like David and company all made it back okay too. Lot's of wind made their day hell too, but you'll have to look elsewhere for those details.
All in all, it was a very close approximation of Trans Iowa. It was tough, windy, and made you think a bit. Just what we wanted.
Went to bed early on Friday night because of the travel and early start on Saturday at 6:00am. I woke up about 10:30pm all hot and sweaty. Checked my temperature. Nope! Normal. Wierd, but I felt fine otherwise. Got up at dark-thirty and saw that it had rained. Yikes! I check the radar and it shows clearing skies and a temperature of 52 F. That's good! I load up a cereal bowl and chow down before getting all the gear loaded up for the hour and fifteen minute trip down to Marengo. I saw one deer that I had to brake pretty hard for. She looked like she was going to try and goacross the road but changed her mind at the last minute. Whew! Always a worry this time in Iowa. Lots of critters getting smashed on the roads including deer. Glad I missed that one.
I got to Marengo a little early and I fumbled around in the dark with some of my gear. A police car cruises by taking a long slow look at me. Hmm...........I see Doose's Cafe is already open. Thought they didn't open until 6am? Well, the cops go in and at least they are satisfied that I am not a threat to national security. The sky is clear and a lone dog howls at the full moon. Perfect!
Later I see a truck pull up and a rider on a bike. It's a couple of Trans Iowa vets and a guy from Milwaukee showing up, then David Pals. Then Paul and Matt. Good sized group. We're all about to take off when I get a phone call. It's a couple more guys coming in a little late. We are waiting for 6:00am and right as we're about to pull out, the two late arrivals show, so we waited some more. I think we finally got off at about 6:30am. Hey! No worries. It's just a ride, ya know?
So, nine guys and enough blinking red lights to make you go crazy! Ha! Well, we attracted a lot of attention from hunters getting ready for their first day of pheasant hunting season to start. That explained Doose's early opening! We head out of town and right where I always see deer when I come to Marengo doesn't dissappoint. Deer! Running in the ditch and up over the dike. Could barely see them in the dark.
Heading north into the 15mph-20mph wind. We're drafting on the pavement, but still working hard. It's chilly and windy which is always harder than warm and windy, at least I think so. We hit the first gravel. Straight up! It's hard to tell what the gradient is or how far you have to go up in the dark. You just find a rhythm and go. Lots of hills to strt out with and we're not rolling real fast.
I'm not feeling too snappy, but then again I'm a slow starter, so I'm not worried at this point. The sun starts to rise and the terrain is discernable. I found myself at the back with David Pals on a section of pavement where I took some pics from the bike. Then we made it to the top of another long grinder to find the group waiting for us. I knew the next three miles would be killer hills. I was getting a bit worried as I didn't seem to be coming in, still sluggish. I ate something and that seemed to help. We get over the nasty hills and stopped again to regroup. I ate something again, as I was really hungry. Not a good sign!
We were working a pretty solid wind and everyone was grinding along at about 11-12mph, (according to my crap computer) and not much conversation was had. Finally we turned west for a long stretch. It was daylight, windy, and the temps had fallen into the low 40's. The hills were more like what I'm used to, but I just was getting worse with every mile. Finally, on a little rise that I wouldn't have normally noticed I find myself in the lowest gear in the middle ring, contemplating going into the granny ring. My legs are shot, and the group is dropping me like a bad habit.
They all stopped at an intersection where there was some confusion and I caught back on. I told David I was cooked and I was going back. That's the thing, I could have slogged on till I was completely unable to continue, but you are responsible for yourself on these gigs, so I had to pull the plug at a point where I knew I could make it back on my own.
Well, it's a good thing I did. Even with flat terrain, food in my belly from Belle Plain, and a tail wind, I still took as long to get back as I did to get to the point where I bailed out. I was stopping every two to three miles resting my legs, which were hurting like.........well, let's just say they've never hurt like that! I almost passed out once too, before I ate, so I think I was headed for bonkville and I may have a stinkin' cold on top of it. Whatever it is, it ended my day early.
I saw lots and lots of hunters on my way back and all of them looked surprised to see a biker out on the gravel. Hey! It's a multi use trail! Ha ha! Sounded like David and company all made it back okay too. Lot's of wind made their day hell too, but you'll have to look elsewhere for those details.
All in all, it was a very close approximation of Trans Iowa. It was tough, windy, and made you think a bit. Just what we wanted.
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: A Report
Well the tune up ride went off without much drama. I've got some pics, but my computer and card reader are not getting along well today, so maybe some other time for that. Anyway, here's the story as far as I know it.........
Went to bed early on Friday night because of the travel and early start on Saturday at 6:00am. I woke up about 10:30pm all hot and sweaty. Checked my temperature. Nope! Normal. Wierd, but I felt fine otherwise. Got up at dark-thirty and saw that it had rained. Yikes! I check the radar and it shows clearing skies and a temperature of 52 F. That's good! I load up a cereal bowl and chow down before getting all the gear loaded up for the hour and fifteen minute trip down to Marengo. I saw one deer that I had to brake pretty hard for. She looked like she was going to try and goacross the road but changed her mind at the last minute. Whew! Always a worry this time in Iowa. Lots of critters getting smashed on the roads including deer. Glad I missed that one.
I got to Marengo a little early and I fumbled around in the dark with some of my gear. A police car cruises by taking a long slow look at me. Hmm...........I see Doose's Cafe is already open. Thought they didn't open until 6am? Well, the cops go in and at least they are satisfied that I am not a threat to national security. The sky is clear and a lone dog howls at the full moon. Perfect!
Later I see a truck pull up and a rider on a bike. It's a couple of Trans Iowa vets and a guy from Milwaukee showing up, then David Pals. Then Paul and Matt. Good sized group. We're all about to take off when I get a phone call. It's a couple more guys coming in a little late. We are waiting for 6:00am and right as we're about to pull out, the two late arrivals show, so we waited some more. I think we finally got off at about 6:30am. Hey! No worries. It's just a ride, ya know?
So, nine guys and enough blinking red lights to make you go crazy! Ha! Well, we attracted a lot of attention from hunters getting ready for their first day of pheasant hunting season to start. That explained Doose's early opening! We head out of town and right where I always see deer when I come to Marengo doesn't dissappoint. Deer! Running in the ditch and up over the dike. Could barely see them in the dark.
Heading north into the 15mph-20mph wind. We're drafting on the pavement, but still working hard. It's chilly and windy which is always harder than warm and windy, at least I think so. We hit the first gravel. Straight up! It's hard to tell what the gradient is or how far you have to go up in the dark. You just find a rhythm and go. Lots of hills to strt out with and we're not rolling real fast.
I'm not feeling too snappy, but then again I'm a slow starter, so I'm not worried at this point. The sun starts to rise and the terrain is discernable. I found myself at the back with David Pals on a section of pavement where I took some pics from the bike. Then we made it to the top of another long grinder to find the group waiting for us. I knew the next three miles would be killer hills. I was getting a bit worried as I didn't seem to be coming in, still sluggish. I ate something and that seemed to help. We get over the nasty hills and stopped again to regroup. I ate something again, as I was really hungry. Not a good sign!
We were working a pretty solid wind and everyone was grinding along at about 11-12mph, (according to my crap computer) and not much conversation was had. Finally we turned west for a long stretch. It was daylight, windy, and the temps had fallen into the low 40's. The hills were more like what I'm used to, but I just was getting worse with every mile. Finally, on a little rise that I wouldn't have normally noticed I find myself in the lowest gear in the middle ring, contemplating going into the granny ring. My legs are shot, and the group is dropping me like a bad habit.
They all stopped at an intersection where there was some confusion and I caught back on. I told David I was cooked and I was going back. That's the thing, I could have slogged on till I was completely unable to continue, but you are responsible for yourself on these gigs, so I had to pull the plug at a point where I knew I could make it back on my own.
Well, it's a good thing I did. Even with flat terrain, food in my belly from Belle Plain, and a tail wind, I still took as long to get back as I did to get to the point where I bailed out. I was stopping every two to three miles resting my legs, which were hurting like.........well, let's just say they've never hurt like that! I almost passed out once too, before I ate, so I think I was headed for bonkville and I may have a stinkin' cold on top of it. Whatever it is, it ended my day early.
I saw lots and lots of hunters on my way back and all of them looked surprised to see a biker out on the gravel. Hey! It's a multi use trail! Ha ha! Sounded like David and company all made it back okay too. Lot's of wind made their day hell too, but you'll have to look elsewhere for those details.
All in all, it was a very close approximation of Trans Iowa. It was tough, windy, and made you think a bit. Just what we wanted.
Went to bed early on Friday night because of the travel and early start on Saturday at 6:00am. I woke up about 10:30pm all hot and sweaty. Checked my temperature. Nope! Normal. Wierd, but I felt fine otherwise. Got up at dark-thirty and saw that it had rained. Yikes! I check the radar and it shows clearing skies and a temperature of 52 F. That's good! I load up a cereal bowl and chow down before getting all the gear loaded up for the hour and fifteen minute trip down to Marengo. I saw one deer that I had to brake pretty hard for. She looked like she was going to try and goacross the road but changed her mind at the last minute. Whew! Always a worry this time in Iowa. Lots of critters getting smashed on the roads including deer. Glad I missed that one.
I got to Marengo a little early and I fumbled around in the dark with some of my gear. A police car cruises by taking a long slow look at me. Hmm...........I see Doose's Cafe is already open. Thought they didn't open until 6am? Well, the cops go in and at least they are satisfied that I am not a threat to national security. The sky is clear and a lone dog howls at the full moon. Perfect!
Later I see a truck pull up and a rider on a bike. It's a couple of Trans Iowa vets and a guy from Milwaukee showing up, then David Pals. Then Paul and Matt. Good sized group. We're all about to take off when I get a phone call. It's a couple more guys coming in a little late. We are waiting for 6:00am and right as we're about to pull out, the two late arrivals show, so we waited some more. I think we finally got off at about 6:30am. Hey! No worries. It's just a ride, ya know?
So, nine guys and enough blinking red lights to make you go crazy! Ha! Well, we attracted a lot of attention from hunters getting ready for their first day of pheasant hunting season to start. That explained Doose's early opening! We head out of town and right where I always see deer when I come to Marengo doesn't dissappoint. Deer! Running in the ditch and up over the dike. Could barely see them in the dark.
Heading north into the 15mph-20mph wind. We're drafting on the pavement, but still working hard. It's chilly and windy which is always harder than warm and windy, at least I think so. We hit the first gravel. Straight up! It's hard to tell what the gradient is or how far you have to go up in the dark. You just find a rhythm and go. Lots of hills to strt out with and we're not rolling real fast.
I'm not feeling too snappy, but then again I'm a slow starter, so I'm not worried at this point. The sun starts to rise and the terrain is discernable. I found myself at the back with David Pals on a section of pavement where I took some pics from the bike. Then we made it to the top of another long grinder to find the group waiting for us. I knew the next three miles would be killer hills. I was getting a bit worried as I didn't seem to be coming in, still sluggish. I ate something and that seemed to help. We get over the nasty hills and stopped again to regroup. I ate something again, as I was really hungry. Not a good sign!
We were working a pretty solid wind and everyone was grinding along at about 11-12mph, (according to my crap computer) and not much conversation was had. Finally we turned west for a long stretch. It was daylight, windy, and the temps had fallen into the low 40's. The hills were more like what I'm used to, but I just was getting worse with every mile. Finally, on a little rise that I wouldn't have normally noticed I find myself in the lowest gear in the middle ring, contemplating going into the granny ring. My legs are shot, and the group is dropping me like a bad habit.
They all stopped at an intersection where there was some confusion and I caught back on. I told David I was cooked and I was going back. That's the thing, I could have slogged on till I was completely unable to continue, but you are responsible for yourself on these gigs, so I had to pull the plug at a point where I knew I could make it back on my own.
Well, it's a good thing I did. Even with flat terrain, food in my belly from Belle Plain, and a tail wind, I still took as long to get back as I did to get to the point where I bailed out. I was stopping every two to three miles resting my legs, which were hurting like.........well, let's just say they've never hurt like that! I almost passed out once too, before I ate, so I think I was headed for bonkville and I may have a stinkin' cold on top of it. Whatever it is, it ended my day early.
I saw lots and lots of hunters on my way back and all of them looked surprised to see a biker out on the gravel. Hey! It's a multi use trail! Ha ha! Sounded like David and company all made it back okay too. Lot's of wind made their day hell too, but you'll have to look elsewhere for those details.
All in all, it was a very close approximation of Trans Iowa. It was tough, windy, and made you think a bit. Just what we wanted.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Friday News and Views
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: Weather looks great, we've got a fair number of riders promised to show up, and the course should be in primo condition. There will be a follow up report with some pictures to see this weekend late or at the latest on Monday, so do check back in for that.
I had to make a late decision on bike selection last night. I had originally planned on riding the Pofahl but a serious creak surfaced in the saddle on Wednesday and I have not been able to rid myself of the annoyance yet. It'll require a disassemble and some cleaning/lubrication which I don't have the time for now. So, I am going geared on my trusty Raleigh XXIX+G set up with the Willits WOW fork, Ergon grips, and the surprisingly comfortable Bontrager Rhythm Pro saddle. This bike already has a computer set up on it too, so that made it a no brainer. Anyway, I'm sad I can't take the Pofahl, but oh well!
The Bike Lab: I know I mentioned this already, but it got it's "official" introduction yesterday and today it's on BRAIN's website as a press release. Guess that makes it really official! Take a look at the site sometime and let me know what you think. All suggestions are welcome!
The Big Wheeled Ballyhoo: Yes, it's coming back. Yes, it will be in Decorah, Iowa again! There really isn't a better place for it as of right now. Look, I know a lot of you think Iowa is lame, but if you do, it's because you have never ridden at Decorah recently. The trails are tough and a lot of fun. Plus, they are right near town and a quarter of a mile away from the camping area we are using for the event. Everything you need is within a mile- mile and a half. It's absolutely a great set up. Anyway, plan on coming on June 21st-22nd for a great time in North East Iowa. I'll post more details in the coming weeks and there will be an official web page coming for this too. Finally, there will be T-shirts! Stay tuned!
Dirt, Sweat, and Gears: Got another gem in the in-box the other day. Check out Dirt, Sweat, and Gears SSUSA. It's a single speed event in Tennessee on May 2nd, 2008. Sounds like a lot of fun. I'll have to eyeball this a little more closely and see if it's doable with the family, but as for you guys out there, you should look into this. Ol' Mr. 24 had some pretty high praise for the area and said the riding was stellar, so I know it is worth a look see.
Okay, that's a wrap for this week! Looking forwards to getting some gravely goodness this weekend and hope you get out to ride your bike too. Let's Ride!
I had to make a late decision on bike selection last night. I had originally planned on riding the Pofahl but a serious creak surfaced in the saddle on Wednesday and I have not been able to rid myself of the annoyance yet. It'll require a disassemble and some cleaning/lubrication which I don't have the time for now. So, I am going geared on my trusty Raleigh XXIX+G set up with the Willits WOW fork, Ergon grips, and the surprisingly comfortable Bontrager Rhythm Pro saddle. This bike already has a computer set up on it too, so that made it a no brainer. Anyway, I'm sad I can't take the Pofahl, but oh well!
The Bike Lab: I know I mentioned this already, but it got it's "official" introduction yesterday and today it's on BRAIN's website as a press release. Guess that makes it really official! Take a look at the site sometime and let me know what you think. All suggestions are welcome!
The Big Wheeled Ballyhoo: Yes, it's coming back. Yes, it will be in Decorah, Iowa again! There really isn't a better place for it as of right now. Look, I know a lot of you think Iowa is lame, but if you do, it's because you have never ridden at Decorah recently. The trails are tough and a lot of fun. Plus, they are right near town and a quarter of a mile away from the camping area we are using for the event. Everything you need is within a mile- mile and a half. It's absolutely a great set up. Anyway, plan on coming on June 21st-22nd for a great time in North East Iowa. I'll post more details in the coming weeks and there will be an official web page coming for this too. Finally, there will be T-shirts! Stay tuned!
Dirt, Sweat, and Gears: Got another gem in the in-box the other day. Check out Dirt, Sweat, and Gears SSUSA. It's a single speed event in Tennessee on May 2nd, 2008. Sounds like a lot of fun. I'll have to eyeball this a little more closely and see if it's doable with the family, but as for you guys out there, you should look into this. Ol' Mr. 24 had some pretty high praise for the area and said the riding was stellar, so I know it is worth a look see.
Okay, that's a wrap for this week! Looking forwards to getting some gravely goodness this weekend and hope you get out to ride your bike too. Let's Ride!
Friday News and Views
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: Weather looks great, we've got a fair number of riders promised to show up, and the course should be in primo condition. There will be a follow up report with some pictures to see this weekend late or at the latest on Monday, so do check back in for that.
I had to make a late decision on bike selection last night. I had originally planned on riding the Pofahl but a serious creak surfaced in the saddle on Wednesday and I have not been able to rid myself of the annoyance yet. It'll require a disassemble and some cleaning/lubrication which I don't have the time for now. So, I am going geared on my trusty Raleigh XXIX+G set up with the Willits WOW fork, Ergon grips, and the surprisingly comfortable Bontrager Rhythm Pro saddle. This bike already has a computer set up on it too, so that made it a no brainer. Anyway, I'm sad I can't take the Pofahl, but oh well!
The Bike Lab: I know I mentioned this already, but it got it's "official" introduction yesterday and today it's on BRAIN's website as a press release. Guess that makes it really official! Take a look at the site sometime and let me know what you think. All suggestions are welcome!
The Big Wheeled Ballyhoo: Yes, it's coming back. Yes, it will be in Decorah, Iowa again! There really isn't a better place for it as of right now. Look, I know a lot of you think Iowa is lame, but if you do, it's because you have never ridden at Decorah recently. The trails are tough and a lot of fun. Plus, they are right near town and a quarter of a mile away from the camping area we are using for the event. Everything you need is within a mile- mile and a half. It's absolutely a great set up. Anyway, plan on coming on June 21st-22nd for a great time in North East Iowa. I'll post more details in the coming weeks and there will be an official web page coming for this too. Finally, there will be T-shirts! Stay tuned!
Dirt, Sweat, and Gears: Got another gem in the in-box the other day. Check out Dirt, Sweat, and Gears SSUSA. It's a single speed event in Tennessee on May 2nd, 2008. Sounds like a lot of fun. I'll have to eyeball this a little more closely and see if it's doable with the family, but as for you guys out there, you should look into this. Ol' Mr. 24 had some pretty high praise for the area and said the riding was stellar, so I know it is worth a look see.
Okay, that's a wrap for this week! Looking forwards to getting some gravely goodness this weekend and hope you get out to ride your bike too. Let's Ride!
I had to make a late decision on bike selection last night. I had originally planned on riding the Pofahl but a serious creak surfaced in the saddle on Wednesday and I have not been able to rid myself of the annoyance yet. It'll require a disassemble and some cleaning/lubrication which I don't have the time for now. So, I am going geared on my trusty Raleigh XXIX+G set up with the Willits WOW fork, Ergon grips, and the surprisingly comfortable Bontrager Rhythm Pro saddle. This bike already has a computer set up on it too, so that made it a no brainer. Anyway, I'm sad I can't take the Pofahl, but oh well!
The Bike Lab: I know I mentioned this already, but it got it's "official" introduction yesterday and today it's on BRAIN's website as a press release. Guess that makes it really official! Take a look at the site sometime and let me know what you think. All suggestions are welcome!
The Big Wheeled Ballyhoo: Yes, it's coming back. Yes, it will be in Decorah, Iowa again! There really isn't a better place for it as of right now. Look, I know a lot of you think Iowa is lame, but if you do, it's because you have never ridden at Decorah recently. The trails are tough and a lot of fun. Plus, they are right near town and a quarter of a mile away from the camping area we are using for the event. Everything you need is within a mile- mile and a half. It's absolutely a great set up. Anyway, plan on coming on June 21st-22nd for a great time in North East Iowa. I'll post more details in the coming weeks and there will be an official web page coming for this too. Finally, there will be T-shirts! Stay tuned!
Dirt, Sweat, and Gears: Got another gem in the in-box the other day. Check out Dirt, Sweat, and Gears SSUSA. It's a single speed event in Tennessee on May 2nd, 2008. Sounds like a lot of fun. I'll have to eyeball this a little more closely and see if it's doable with the family, but as for you guys out there, you should look into this. Ol' Mr. 24 had some pretty high praise for the area and said the riding was stellar, so I know it is worth a look see.
Okay, that's a wrap for this week! Looking forwards to getting some gravely goodness this weekend and hope you get out to ride your bike too. Let's Ride!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Who's First? Who Cares!
Much has been written and said about who was the first "mountain biker", who made the first "mountain bike", and the "origins of the sport" of mountain biking. Several claims of "first" are out there with new "firsts" being discovered every other year seemingly. Here's something to illustrate my point.
Did you know that the guy that invented mountain bikes was murdered recently by a tree trimmer named Charlie Cunningham?
No, not that Charlie Cunningham! A mountain bike pioneer and one of the founders of WTB. Although he has been known to live in a tree......... No not that guy. Anyway, this is about Charles Finley Scott, who according to a story on Bicycle Retailer and Industry News and the recent movie "Klunkerz" is "the man many credit to having invented the mountain bike." Here is an excerpt from the BRAIN story:
"It was Scott, who, in 1953, outfitted a Schwinn bicycle with balloon tires, multiple gears and more powerful brakes, calling it his "woodsie bike." He was among the first in the United States to make a sport out of bombing down mountains on a bicycle, according to many cycling historians."
Too bad his "sport" didn't catch on in 1953, or I could have been mountain biking long before I was. That's the thing with inventors. They often are socially inept savants that can't promote themselves out of a wet paper sack! So what if he was the first. (Which is a dubious claim anyway) It made zero impact on cycling, sport, and culture. The "perfect storm", as it were, was attained in Marin County back in the late seventies. From that scene sport, culture, and cycling were forever changed. The tools used may have been put together before, but there's more to it than bombing down a mountainside on a "woodsie" all by yourself.
This fruitless "first" stuff is all rather pompous and silly anyway. Witness the recent flap about who made the first 29"er that came up in Dirt Rag recently. Really, who cares? I'm just glad that all the parts came together and that I can enjoy my off road experience in a better way than before. And why is it that one person has to be credited? At least the movie Klunkerz tried to point out that it was a group effort. Can't we just leave it at that and celebrate the spirit of the thing. It's more than just one person, place, or thing.
Who's first? Who cares! Let's ride!
Did you know that the guy that invented mountain bikes was murdered recently by a tree trimmer named Charlie Cunningham?
No, not that Charlie Cunningham! A mountain bike pioneer and one of the founders of WTB. Although he has been known to live in a tree......... No not that guy. Anyway, this is about Charles Finley Scott, who according to a story on Bicycle Retailer and Industry News and the recent movie "Klunkerz" is "the man many credit to having invented the mountain bike." Here is an excerpt from the BRAIN story:
"It was Scott, who, in 1953, outfitted a Schwinn bicycle with balloon tires, multiple gears and more powerful brakes, calling it his "woodsie bike." He was among the first in the United States to make a sport out of bombing down mountains on a bicycle, according to many cycling historians."
Too bad his "sport" didn't catch on in 1953, or I could have been mountain biking long before I was. That's the thing with inventors. They often are socially inept savants that can't promote themselves out of a wet paper sack! So what if he was the first. (Which is a dubious claim anyway) It made zero impact on cycling, sport, and culture. The "perfect storm", as it were, was attained in Marin County back in the late seventies. From that scene sport, culture, and cycling were forever changed. The tools used may have been put together before, but there's more to it than bombing down a mountainside on a "woodsie" all by yourself.
This fruitless "first" stuff is all rather pompous and silly anyway. Witness the recent flap about who made the first 29"er that came up in Dirt Rag recently. Really, who cares? I'm just glad that all the parts came together and that I can enjoy my off road experience in a better way than before. And why is it that one person has to be credited? At least the movie Klunkerz tried to point out that it was a group effort. Can't we just leave it at that and celebrate the spirit of the thing. It's more than just one person, place, or thing.
Who's first? Who cares! Let's ride!
Who's First? Who Cares!
Much has been written and said about who was the first "mountain biker", who made the first "mountain bike", and the "origins of the sport" of mountain biking. Several claims of "first" are out there with new "firsts" being discovered every other year seemingly. Here's something to illustrate my point.
Did you know that the guy that invented mountain bikes was murdered recently by a tree trimmer named Charlie Cunningham?
No, not that Charlie Cunningham! A mountain bike pioneer and one of the founders of WTB. Although he has been known to live in a tree......... No not that guy. Anyway, this is about Charles Finley Scott, who according to a story on Bicycle Retailer and Industry News and the recent movie "Klunkerz" is "the man many credit to having invented the mountain bike." Here is an excerpt from the BRAIN story:
"It was Scott, who, in 1953, outfitted a Schwinn bicycle with balloon tires, multiple gears and more powerful brakes, calling it his "woodsie bike." He was among the first in the United States to make a sport out of bombing down mountains on a bicycle, according to many cycling historians."
Too bad his "sport" didn't catch on in 1953, or I could have been mountain biking long before I was. That's the thing with inventors. They often are socially inept savants that can't promote themselves out of a wet paper sack! So what if he was the first. (Which is a dubious claim anyway) It made zero impact on cycling, sport, and culture. The "perfect storm", as it were, was attained in Marin County back in the late seventies. From that scene sport, culture, and cycling were forever changed. The tools used may have been put together before, but there's more to it than bombing down a mountainside on a "woodsie" all by yourself.
This fruitless "first" stuff is all rather pompous and silly anyway. Witness the recent flap about who made the first 29"er that came up in Dirt Rag recently. Really, who cares? I'm just glad that all the parts came together and that I can enjoy my off road experience in a better way than before. And why is it that one person has to be credited? At least the movie Klunkerz tried to point out that it was a group effort. Can't we just leave it at that and celebrate the spirit of the thing. It's more than just one person, place, or thing.
Who's first? Who cares! Let's ride!
Did you know that the guy that invented mountain bikes was murdered recently by a tree trimmer named Charlie Cunningham?
No, not that Charlie Cunningham! A mountain bike pioneer and one of the founders of WTB. Although he has been known to live in a tree......... No not that guy. Anyway, this is about Charles Finley Scott, who according to a story on Bicycle Retailer and Industry News and the recent movie "Klunkerz" is "the man many credit to having invented the mountain bike." Here is an excerpt from the BRAIN story:
"It was Scott, who, in 1953, outfitted a Schwinn bicycle with balloon tires, multiple gears and more powerful brakes, calling it his "woodsie bike." He was among the first in the United States to make a sport out of bombing down mountains on a bicycle, according to many cycling historians."
Too bad his "sport" didn't catch on in 1953, or I could have been mountain biking long before I was. That's the thing with inventors. They often are socially inept savants that can't promote themselves out of a wet paper sack! So what if he was the first. (Which is a dubious claim anyway) It made zero impact on cycling, sport, and culture. The "perfect storm", as it were, was attained in Marin County back in the late seventies. From that scene sport, culture, and cycling were forever changed. The tools used may have been put together before, but there's more to it than bombing down a mountainside on a "woodsie" all by yourself.
This fruitless "first" stuff is all rather pompous and silly anyway. Witness the recent flap about who made the first 29"er that came up in Dirt Rag recently. Really, who cares? I'm just glad that all the parts came together and that I can enjoy my off road experience in a better way than before. And why is it that one person has to be credited? At least the movie Klunkerz tried to point out that it was a group effort. Can't we just leave it at that and celebrate the spirit of the thing. It's more than just one person, place, or thing.
Who's first? Who cares! Let's ride!
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Wednesday News And Views
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: An update for ya'all that might be coming. (What......all five or six of us. Heh heh!) Anyway, the course is draining well, road repairs are in full swing, and with little to no rain for the week the "B" roads should firm up rather well. We'll be just past a full moon, so the earliest part of the ride might be pretty fun with that and a rising sun. This should be fun and I'm excited. See ya early Saturday!
SE Racing Stout: I'm going to hang it up on the peg until after the ride mentioned above, but so far I'm impressed. Keeping in mind it's a $470.00 retail rig, this bike has been performing above my expectations. Would I change some stuff if I owned one? Absolutely. Is their some stuff on it that stinks? No, I just have high expectations of my equipment and some certain peccadilloes that I indulge myself in that would necessitate some parts swappage, that's all. In fact, I did change a couple of things I just couldn't do without. A longer seat post and clipless pedals, but then I think most riders getting this rig would agree with those minor changes. More soon on this surprising rig at Twenty Nine Inches.
The Bike Lab: I've mentioned this before but the newest addition to the Crooked Cog Network
is up and running with it's final look and layout. Check it out.
What a Blog! Okay, here is another one I previously mentioned, but with only four posts under his belt, Mike Curiak has really impressed, (as I fully expected he would) with his blog. Get in on the ground floor here and then don't miss a post. Really. You will find some pretty cool stuff there that you won't see anywhere else. His latest post on Alaska is worth a thousand of my posts alone. (Okay, so I'm a fan! Sue me!) But tell me, where else are you going to go to get pictures and words like that, huh?
SE Racing Stout: I'm going to hang it up on the peg until after the ride mentioned above, but so far I'm impressed. Keeping in mind it's a $470.00 retail rig, this bike has been performing above my expectations. Would I change some stuff if I owned one? Absolutely. Is their some stuff on it that stinks? No, I just have high expectations of my equipment and some certain peccadilloes that I indulge myself in that would necessitate some parts swappage, that's all. In fact, I did change a couple of things I just couldn't do without. A longer seat post and clipless pedals, but then I think most riders getting this rig would agree with those minor changes. More soon on this surprising rig at Twenty Nine Inches.
The Bike Lab: I've mentioned this before but the newest addition to the Crooked Cog Network
is up and running with it's final look and layout. Check it out.
What a Blog! Okay, here is another one I previously mentioned, but with only four posts under his belt, Mike Curiak has really impressed, (as I fully expected he would) with his blog. Get in on the ground floor here and then don't miss a post. Really. You will find some pretty cool stuff there that you won't see anywhere else. His latest post on Alaska is worth a thousand of my posts alone. (Okay, so I'm a fan! Sue me!) But tell me, where else are you going to go to get pictures and words like that, huh?
Wednesday News And Views
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: An update for ya'all that might be coming. (What......all five or six of us. Heh heh!) Anyway, the course is draining well, road repairs are in full swing, and with little to no rain for the week the "B" roads should firm up rather well. We'll be just past a full moon, so the earliest part of the ride might be pretty fun with that and a rising sun. This should be fun and I'm excited. See ya early Saturday!
SE Racing Stout: I'm going to hang it up on the peg until after the ride mentioned above, but so far I'm impressed. Keeping in mind it's a $470.00 retail rig, this bike has been performing above my expectations. Would I change some stuff if I owned one? Absolutely. Is their some stuff on it that stinks? No, I just have high expectations of my equipment and some certain peccadilloes that I indulge myself in that would necessitate some parts swappage, that's all. In fact, I did change a couple of things I just couldn't do without. A longer seat post and clipless pedals, but then I think most riders getting this rig would agree with those minor changes. More soon on this surprising rig at Twenty Nine Inches.
The Bike Lab: I've mentioned this before but the newest addition to the Crooked Cog Network
is up and running with it's final look and layout. Check it out.
What a Blog! Okay, here is another one I previously mentioned, but with only four posts under his belt, Mike Curiak has really impressed, (as I fully expected he would) with his blog. Get in on the ground floor here and then don't miss a post. Really. You will find some pretty cool stuff there that you won't see anywhere else. His latest post on Alaska is worth a thousand of my posts alone. (Okay, so I'm a fan! Sue me!) But tell me, where else are you going to go to get pictures and words like that, huh?
SE Racing Stout: I'm going to hang it up on the peg until after the ride mentioned above, but so far I'm impressed. Keeping in mind it's a $470.00 retail rig, this bike has been performing above my expectations. Would I change some stuff if I owned one? Absolutely. Is their some stuff on it that stinks? No, I just have high expectations of my equipment and some certain peccadilloes that I indulge myself in that would necessitate some parts swappage, that's all. In fact, I did change a couple of things I just couldn't do without. A longer seat post and clipless pedals, but then I think most riders getting this rig would agree with those minor changes. More soon on this surprising rig at Twenty Nine Inches.
The Bike Lab: I've mentioned this before but the newest addition to the Crooked Cog Network
is up and running with it's final look and layout. Check it out.
What a Blog! Okay, here is another one I previously mentioned, but with only four posts under his belt, Mike Curiak has really impressed, (as I fully expected he would) with his blog. Get in on the ground floor here and then don't miss a post. Really. You will find some pretty cool stuff there that you won't see anywhere else. His latest post on Alaska is worth a thousand of my posts alone. (Okay, so I'm a fan! Sue me!) But tell me, where else are you going to go to get pictures and words like that, huh?
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Season's End
I was surfing the net checking out some blogs when I noticed that a lot of the new pictures I was looking at had snow in them. Snow? Yup! It's that time of year again and I am going to struggle.
The biggest thing is the lack of daylight. Yeah........I suppose I have that whatchamacallit syndrome. The one that says you get depressed if there isn't enough sunlight or something. I don't know, but coupled with the cold air it makes for an added challenge to overcome just to get myself out the door. You know......I think I'm part bear or something, because sleeping through the winter sounds like an excellent idea about right now.
Then there is the lack of cycling activities this time of year. That might affect some a lot more than me, but it makes for dull conversations at the bike shop. I suppose this factor of the "off season" doesn't affect me much since I don't ride a lot with other folks anyway. But it's there and that affects some of you, I'm sure.
I know that winter has it's delights. I mean, the first ride in snow always has it's novelty. Cross country skiing is really fun, but that has been a two week long season at best around here for the last seven years. Last time I checked winter was just a weee bit longer than that! Seems like our winters now allow for some extended late season riding until the temps get rediculously low and the wind chill spells death to outdoor seekers. Oh! And don't forget the occaisonal ice storm or two.
Hopefully the end of this season dovetails right into the start of the next one, but somehow I doubt it. Hibernation anyone?
Rider Down! This just in to me thanks to my buddy d.p. via the Folks From Lincoln: Emily Broderson, a fine rider and a tough gal, took a nasty spill at the Homey Fall Fest up in Minny-apple-puss last weekend. She's hurt, but she's going to be okay. Check out the Folks From Lincoln site and scroll down to get all the latest on Em and the Fest. (WARNING: There is a pretty disturbing pic of the results of Em's crash, so if yer queasy, beware!) Send Emily some encouragement @ emilybrodersen@hotmail.com. Thanks for checking this out!
The biggest thing is the lack of daylight. Yeah........I suppose I have that whatchamacallit syndrome. The one that says you get depressed if there isn't enough sunlight or something. I don't know, but coupled with the cold air it makes for an added challenge to overcome just to get myself out the door. You know......I think I'm part bear or something, because sleeping through the winter sounds like an excellent idea about right now.
Then there is the lack of cycling activities this time of year. That might affect some a lot more than me, but it makes for dull conversations at the bike shop. I suppose this factor of the "off season" doesn't affect me much since I don't ride a lot with other folks anyway. But it's there and that affects some of you, I'm sure.
I know that winter has it's delights. I mean, the first ride in snow always has it's novelty. Cross country skiing is really fun, but that has been a two week long season at best around here for the last seven years. Last time I checked winter was just a weee bit longer than that! Seems like our winters now allow for some extended late season riding until the temps get rediculously low and the wind chill spells death to outdoor seekers. Oh! And don't forget the occaisonal ice storm or two.
Hopefully the end of this season dovetails right into the start of the next one, but somehow I doubt it. Hibernation anyone?
Rider Down! This just in to me thanks to my buddy d.p. via the Folks From Lincoln: Emily Broderson, a fine rider and a tough gal, took a nasty spill at the Homey Fall Fest up in Minny-apple-puss last weekend. She's hurt, but she's going to be okay. Check out the Folks From Lincoln site and scroll down to get all the latest on Em and the Fest. (WARNING: There is a pretty disturbing pic of the results of Em's crash, so if yer queasy, beware!) Send Emily some encouragement @ emilybrodersen@hotmail.com. Thanks for checking this out!
Season's End
I was surfing the net checking out some blogs when I noticed that a lot of the new pictures I was looking at had snow in them. Snow? Yup! It's that time of year again and I am going to struggle.
The biggest thing is the lack of daylight. Yeah........I suppose I have that whatchamacallit syndrome. The one that says you get depressed if there isn't enough sunlight or something. I don't know, but coupled with the cold air it makes for an added challenge to overcome just to get myself out the door. You know......I think I'm part bear or something, because sleeping through the winter sounds like an excellent idea about right now.
Then there is the lack of cycling activities this time of year. That might affect some a lot more than me, but it makes for dull conversations at the bike shop. I suppose this factor of the "off season" doesn't affect me much since I don't ride a lot with other folks anyway. But it's there and that affects some of you, I'm sure.
I know that winter has it's delights. I mean, the first ride in snow always has it's novelty. Cross country skiing is really fun, but that has been a two week long season at best around here for the last seven years. Last time I checked winter was just a weee bit longer than that! Seems like our winters now allow for some extended late season riding until the temps get rediculously low and the wind chill spells death to outdoor seekers. Oh! And don't forget the occaisonal ice storm or two.
Hopefully the end of this season dovetails right into the start of the next one, but somehow I doubt it. Hibernation anyone?
Rider Down! This just in to me thanks to my buddy d.p. via the Folks From Lincoln: Emily Broderson, a fine rider and a tough gal, took a nasty spill at the Homey Fall Fest up in Minny-apple-puss last weekend. She's hurt, but she's going to be okay. Check out the Folks From Lincoln site and scroll down to get all the latest on Em and the Fest. (WARNING: There is a pretty disturbing pic of the results of Em's crash, so if yer queasy, beware!) Send Emily some encouragement @ emilybrodersen@hotmail.com. Thanks for checking this out!
The biggest thing is the lack of daylight. Yeah........I suppose I have that whatchamacallit syndrome. The one that says you get depressed if there isn't enough sunlight or something. I don't know, but coupled with the cold air it makes for an added challenge to overcome just to get myself out the door. You know......I think I'm part bear or something, because sleeping through the winter sounds like an excellent idea about right now.
Then there is the lack of cycling activities this time of year. That might affect some a lot more than me, but it makes for dull conversations at the bike shop. I suppose this factor of the "off season" doesn't affect me much since I don't ride a lot with other folks anyway. But it's there and that affects some of you, I'm sure.
I know that winter has it's delights. I mean, the first ride in snow always has it's novelty. Cross country skiing is really fun, but that has been a two week long season at best around here for the last seven years. Last time I checked winter was just a weee bit longer than that! Seems like our winters now allow for some extended late season riding until the temps get rediculously low and the wind chill spells death to outdoor seekers. Oh! And don't forget the occaisonal ice storm or two.
Hopefully the end of this season dovetails right into the start of the next one, but somehow I doubt it. Hibernation anyone?
Rider Down! This just in to me thanks to my buddy d.p. via the Folks From Lincoln: Emily Broderson, a fine rider and a tough gal, took a nasty spill at the Homey Fall Fest up in Minny-apple-puss last weekend. She's hurt, but she's going to be okay. Check out the Folks From Lincoln site and scroll down to get all the latest on Em and the Fest. (WARNING: There is a pretty disturbing pic of the results of Em's crash, so if yer queasy, beware!) Send Emily some encouragement @ emilybrodersen@hotmail.com. Thanks for checking this out!
Monday, October 22, 2007
More SE Racing Stout and Some News
I have gotten a ride or two in on the SE Racing Stout 29"er single speed so far that I'm testing for Twenty Nine Inches. I think I'll reserve comment until I can get a nice longer off road ride or two in on it. This weekend was a washout, literally, from a rain standpoint. The trails around here were just too muddy or underwater.
Here are some pictures to tide you over.
Integrated headsets are not on my list of cool off road component ideas, but seem to hold up well none the less. I still say why make something that could roach your frame if it goes bad. Not a necessary development in my mind. Looks cool though, I'll grant you that.
Another seat post that's too short. This picture was taken with the post at max extension. I tried riding it, but no go! I took it out and realized it was only a 300mm post! When are we going to get it through to companies that we need to spec 400mm posts. You can always chop it down to whatever length you want. Just like a handle bar. Seems reasonable to me. On a positive note, the Velo manufactured saddle feels comfy......so far!
Clearance is okay. I think some of those Racing Ralph tires by Schwalbe or a WTB Weir Wolf LT might be too tight a fit with the wheel all the way up in the drop outs. I'll have to experiment with that.
A smart move to have the geared option here. The 9 speed compatible free hub makes it a lot easier. The simple spacer kit also gives this a clean look as a single speed but limits your choices in cogs to stamped steel ones. A wider based cog, like a Surly cog, would not work without changing to a different spacer kit too. The chain tensioner on one side is smart. It's all you need. People with balance/symmetry issues need not apply!
More on the Se Racing Stout later, stay tuned!
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: The latest scuttlebutt is that the course has suffered water inundation at several points but that the river is retreating quickly. If we can avoid any real soaking rains between now and Saturday, we'll be okay. We're still going with the original route. Keep in touch here, or at the Trans Iowa site for any last minute changes on that. Otherwise the weather for this weekend looks to be clear and pretty cool.
Some New Linkage! I'm very excited to announce the addition of another new blog link here to none other than endurance freak/pioneer ultra endurance crazy/29"er nutcase/ and gear guru Mike Curiak. Mike promises some straight shooting talk on gear, racing, and whatever hits his radar. Plus, there are some killer photos that Mike has taken already up on the site. Check it out for yourself, you won't be disappointed. I've got Mike's new blog linked on my right hand side bar for future reference. Also, I have linked Mike's business, Lacemine 29. Mike has literally built over four thousand 29"er wheels and counting, so he probably knows a thing or two about what might work for you. Check him out for your next project.
I like Mike, I've met him a couple of times, and I'm a fan of his straight shooting style. His wealth of knowledge and experience in long distance mountain biking is huge. He also takes a mean photograph and writes an easily read story. That's my take and that's why I'm excited about his blog.
Okay, that's it for your Monday. Ride if you can! It's all about riding your bike, no matter what it is.
More SE Racing Stout and Some News
I have gotten a ride or two in on the SE Racing Stout 29"er single speed so far that I'm testing for Twenty Nine Inches. I think I'll reserve comment until I can get a nice longer off road ride or two in on it. This weekend was a washout, literally, from a rain standpoint. The trails around here were just too muddy or underwater.
Here are some pictures to tide you over.
Integrated headsets are not on my list of cool off road component ideas, but seem to hold up well none the less. I still say why make something that could roach your frame if it goes bad. Not a necessary development in my mind. Looks cool though, I'll grant you that.
Another seat post that's too short. This picture was taken with the post at max extension. I tried riding it, but no go! I took it out and realized it was only a 300mm post! When are we going to get it through to companies that we need to spec 400mm posts. You can always chop it down to whatever length you want. Just like a handle bar. Seems reasonable to me. On a positive note, the Velo manufactured saddle feels comfy......so far!
Clearance is okay. I think some of those Racing Ralph tires by Schwalbe or a WTB Weir Wolf LT might be too tight a fit with the wheel all the way up in the drop outs. I'll have to experiment with that.
A smart move to have the geared option here. The 9 speed compatible free hub makes it a lot easier. The simple spacer kit also gives this a clean look as a single speed but limits your choices in cogs to stamped steel ones. A wider based cog, like a Surly cog, would not work without changing to a different spacer kit too. The chain tensioner on one side is smart. It's all you need. People with balance/symmetry issues need not apply!
More on the Se Racing Stout later, stay tuned!
Trans Iowa Tune Up Ride: The latest scuttlebutt is that the course has suffered water inundation at several points but that the river is retreating quickly. If we can avoid any real soaking rains between now and Saturday, we'll be okay. We're still going with the original route. Keep in touch here, or at the Trans Iowa site for any last minute changes on that. Otherwise the weather for this weekend looks to be clear and pretty cool.
Some New Linkage! I'm very excited to announce the addition of another new blog link here to none other than endurance freak/pioneer ultra endurance crazy/29"er nutcase/ and gear guru Mike Curiak. Mike promises some straight shooting talk on gear, racing, and whatever hits his radar. Plus, there are some killer photos that Mike has taken already up on the site. Check it out for yourself, you won't be disappointed. I've got Mike's new blog linked on my right hand side bar for future reference. Also, I have linked Mike's business, Lacemine 29. Mike has literally built over four thousand 29"er wheels and counting, so he probably knows a thing or two about what might work for you. Check him out for your next project.
I like Mike, I've met him a couple of times, and I'm a fan of his straight shooting style. His wealth of knowledge and experience in long distance mountain biking is huge. He also takes a mean photograph and writes an easily read story. That's my take and that's why I'm excited about his blog.
Okay, that's it for your Monday. Ride if you can! It's all about riding your bike, no matter what it is.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
My Commute In Pictures: Part III
Here's the final installment of my commute. Here I have just crossed the overpass of Green Hill Road and am looking at the curb hop of the on and off ramps from University to Green Hill. Lots of care needed to dodge traffic here! After getting back on to frontage road "safety", I pass by a K-Mart. This finally starts the downhill portion of my commute. I run a diagonal through their parking lot to the right to a side street named Progress. That's a downhill to the next left, on Acorn.
Here's the look up Acorn. Yes, back uphill again! This used to be a service road that crossed the back of the Star Lite Drive In Theater. Right about where those cookie cutter condos sit is where a lot of babies were concieved! Anyway, I go up to the next left and take it for a short spell to a quick right and down hill once more.
Here's the final run in to the back end of the strip mall where Europa Cycle and Ski is located.
I've just about been taken out several times by young gals on their way to work zipping up this street from the right in the photo. Just my luck. Someday I'll probably get nailed within sight of work!
And here it is! The back door to the shop!
And here's my work area. Ready to go for another day!
My Commute In Pictures: Part III
Here's the final installment of my commute. Here I have just crossed the overpass of Green Hill Road and am looking at the curb hop of the on and off ramps from University to Green Hill. Lots of care needed to dodge traffic here! After getting back on to frontage road "safety", I pass by a K-Mart. This finally starts the downhill portion of my commute. I run a diagonal through their parking lot to the right to a side street named Progress. That's a downhill to the next left, on Acorn.
Here's the look up Acorn. Yes, back uphill again! This used to be a service road that crossed the back of the Star Lite Drive In Theater. Right about where those cookie cutter condos sit is where a lot of babies were concieved! Anyway, I go up to the next left and take it for a short spell to a quick right and down hill once more.
Here's the final run in to the back end of the strip mall where Europa Cycle and Ski is located.
I've just about been taken out several times by young gals on their way to work zipping up this street from the right in the photo. Just my luck. Someday I'll probably get nailed within sight of work!
And here it is! The back door to the shop!
And here's my work area. Ready to go for another day!
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