Thursday Special: Tidbits Clean-up

Here are some things that have been collecting on the front desk of Guitar Ted Labratories that need to be disseminated. Some of it is news, some of it is downright goofy. None of it deserves its own post. Kind of like leftovers night at Mom's house!

1. NYC Bikes announces a 29"er complete bike for their line. NYC Bikes has a wide variety of budget minded bikes already available and now are adding a 29"er to that long list. Tentatively called the Crosspeed II, it will be a sliding dropout bike (Yes! Another one, we have enough already, do we not?) convertible from single speed to derailluer, for those of you afraid of commitments. The fork provided will be of steel and available separately, although, from the meager information that I have, it may be a little short axle-to-crown-wise. Projected price for the "basic" spec is sub $500.00 Due out in March. See www.nycbikes.com for more.

2.Quiring Cycles 29"er Fork. Not only does this Michigan based builder do a very sharp looking suspension corrected fork for a 29"er, but he also does some mighty fine steel aluminum, and titanium frames as well. The fork is a very sharp looking, tapered leg, steel unit that can be had disc specific or with canti mounts. Plenty of clearance for fat tires and has a generous axle to crown measurement of 485mm. Weight is approximately 2lbs. 6oz. and can be had for about $200.00

3. How "Dirty" Are You? Thanks to Cyclelicious for posting this link a couple of days ago. It's the "Slut-O-Meter"!! That's right! Just type in any search term or name and the Slut-O-Meter will calculate it's "dirt factor" in percent. The higher the percent, the sluttier the subject! My blog must be downright puritanical, as it registered a .47% ! Sub half-a-percent! My Karate Monkey scored a 16.54%, which is a fine figure for a dirt machine! Go on! Have some fun now at www.slut-o-meter.com

4. From the "Foggy Memory Bank". I know I read somewhere that another company was planning a 29" wheeled bike for release that was going to be another one of those Karate Monkey clone, do-it-all bikes, but since the market is swamped already with that sort of thing......well, I promptly dismissed the thing! Oh well! If it crops up again, I'll try to remember to be a little more diligent. By the way, what's so wrong with a budget, steel, dedicated to gears 29" frameset anyway? Hmm......................

Okay, desk cleared now! Carry on!

Thursday Special: Tidbits Clean-up

Here are some things that have been collecting on the front desk of Guitar Ted Labratories that need to be disseminated. Some of it is news, some of it is downright goofy. None of it deserves its own post. Kind of like leftovers night at Mom's house!

1. NYC Bikes announces a 29"er complete bike for their line. NYC Bikes has a wide variety of budget minded bikes already available and now are adding a 29"er to that long list. Tentatively called the Crosspeed II, it will be a sliding dropout bike (Yes! Another one, we have enough already, do we not?) convertible from single speed to derailluer, for those of you afraid of commitments. The fork provided will be of steel and available separately, although, from the meager information that I have, it may be a little short axle-to-crown-wise. Projected price for the "basic" spec is sub $500.00 Due out in March. See www.nycbikes.com for more.

2.Quiring Cycles 29"er Fork. Not only does this Michigan based builder do a very sharp looking suspension corrected fork for a 29"er, but he also does some mighty fine steel aluminum, and titanium frames as well. The fork is a very sharp looking, tapered leg, steel unit that can be had disc specific or with canti mounts. Plenty of clearance for fat tires and has a generous axle to crown measurement of 485mm. Weight is approximately 2lbs. 6oz. and can be had for about $200.00

3. How "Dirty" Are You? Thanks to Cyclelicious for posting this link a couple of days ago. It's the "Slut-O-Meter"!! That's right! Just type in any search term or name and the Slut-O-Meter will calculate it's "dirt factor" in percent. The higher the percent, the sluttier the subject! My blog must be downright puritanical, as it registered a .47% ! Sub half-a-percent! My Karate Monkey scored a 16.54%, which is a fine figure for a dirt machine! Go on! Have some fun now at www.slut-o-meter.com

4. From the "Foggy Memory Bank". I know I read somewhere that another company was planning a 29" wheeled bike for release that was going to be another one of those Karate Monkey clone, do-it-all bikes, but since the market is swamped already with that sort of thing......well, I promptly dismissed the thing! Oh well! If it crops up again, I'll try to remember to be a little more diligent. By the way, what's so wrong with a budget, steel, dedicated to gears 29" frameset anyway? Hmm......................

Okay, desk cleared now! Carry on!

Name Yer Poison.

I saw a post today on the Endurance forum of mtbr.com that was talking about the AZT 300. It's a bike/ hike through the deserts and high country of Arizona. Very tough, to be sure. The poster that got me to thinking was one that stated something to the effect that the choice between doing the AZT 300 or Trans Iowa was, perhaps, too obvious. (Based, apparently, on the scenery)

Well, if you don't already know, I help put on Trans Iowa. Promoter? Hmm......I prefer Resident Mad Scientist in charge of Course Design. Yeeeeaaaaah! Anyway............I'm not going to slag on the AZT 300, nor am I going to selfishly glorify T.I.V2. I'm just going to say these are two entirely different events! Pick yer poison. Either one is a tough challenge.

Scenery? Sonoran desert? Maybe this stuff trips your trigger. Hiking with your bike on your back in extreme dry heat. Taking a nap on a high mesa with scorpions for bunk buddies. Spending three to five days in the desert southwest. Alone. Hey, this is pretty crazy stuff. Kinda like Idita-bike in reverse!

Trans Iowa? Ride the entire course........in less than 34 hours. No sleep- no hike-a-bike. (Well........maybe no hike-a-bike!) Could be really hot and humid, could be really cold and snowy, or it could be perfect. Farm roads, gravel, and mud. Cows staring at you. Kinda like an uncouth Paris-Roubaix.

So, you see, two entirely different types of challenges. I'm not sure you choose based on scenery. When I'm in the hurt locker, all I can see are pink elephants anyway.

On an entirely different note: Guess the date of birth for Tim Grahl's baby son and Blue Collar MTB will send you a $5.00 gift certificate to JensonUSA. It's all just for fun and you could get something you may be wanting just a little bit cheaper.

Name Yer Poison.

I saw a post today on the Endurance forum of mtbr.com that was talking about the AZT 300. It's a bike/ hike through the deserts and high country of Arizona. Very tough, to be sure. The poster that got me to thinking was one that stated something to the effect that the choice between doing the AZT 300 or Trans Iowa was, perhaps, too obvious. (Based, apparently, on the scenery)

Well, if you don't already know, I help put on Trans Iowa. Promoter? Hmm......I prefer Resident Mad Scientist in charge of Course Design. Yeeeeaaaaah! Anyway............I'm not going to slag on the AZT 300, nor am I going to selfishly glorify T.I.V2. I'm just going to say these are two entirely different events! Pick yer poison. Either one is a tough challenge.

Scenery? Sonoran desert? Maybe this stuff trips your trigger. Hiking with your bike on your back in extreme dry heat. Taking a nap on a high mesa with scorpions for bunk buddies. Spending three to five days in the desert southwest. Alone. Hey, this is pretty crazy stuff. Kinda like Idita-bike in reverse!

Trans Iowa? Ride the entire course........in less than 34 hours. No sleep- no hike-a-bike. (Well........maybe no hike-a-bike!) Could be really hot and humid, could be really cold and snowy, or it could be perfect. Farm roads, gravel, and mud. Cows staring at you. Kinda like an uncouth Paris-Roubaix.

So, you see, two entirely different types of challenges. I'm not sure you choose based on scenery. When I'm in the hurt locker, all I can see are pink elephants anyway.

On an entirely different note: Guess the date of birth for Tim Grahl's baby son and Blue Collar MTB will send you a $5.00 gift certificate to JensonUSA. It's all just for fun and you could get something you may be wanting just a little bit cheaper.

Simplified Or Just Lazy?

I was reading the last post by Matt Chester yesterday, and I was struck by several things. One of the main things that I took away from that, and always have anytime I read something from Matt, is the struggle to simplify. It's not easy! It seems that this life we live is an ant trap and we are constantly getting further in the hole the more we struggle to get out of it. Anyway, I could wax philosophical for paragraphs here, but I'll resist that temptation.

The bicycle related angle to all of this has to do with single speed bikes. Yeah.........I know! That's a philosophical ant trap in itself. I really do not want to go there. My angle is a little more practical and, well........more experiential than philosophical. Then again, maybe I'm just lazy!

You see, I grew up on one speed. I suppose alot of you did too. I never had a multi-speed drivetrain until I had a drivers license. (Things got complicated in a hurry!) I didn't get another single speeder until about three years ago. In the time inbetween, I had several derailluer equipped bikes, and many fine experiences. However, I always had that maintenance issue, and then the constant changes! You know........seven speed, then eight. Ah, that's fine! Whoops! Now my eight are obsolete? Wha?!!!.......... And the expense, the wear issues, the constant fine tuning. It wasn't like I couldn't do all of that. It was just all so complicated. Don't get me wrong. Gears are good, and I have plenty of derailluer equipped bikes. It's just that I always pull out that single speed to ride. I'm not sure why. Maybe it's just a whole lot less. Less to think about. That leaves space for some other stuff. Stuff that I enjoy.

I guess maybe it's got something to do with what Matt was trying to do when he shut down his blog the other day.

Simplify.

Calm down.

(Thanks for that influence, Matt.)

So, how about you? Single speed or gears? Doesn't make a difference as long as it's a bike? That's cool too. Me? I'm ridin' the ss today........................

..........................then again, maybe I'm just lazy!

Simplified Or Just Lazy?

I was reading the last post by Matt Chester yesterday, and I was struck by several things. One of the main things that I took away from that, and always have anytime I read something from Matt, is the struggle to simplify. It's not easy! It seems that this life we live is an ant trap and we are constantly getting further in the hole the more we struggle to get out of it. Anyway, I could wax philosophical for paragraphs here, but I'll resist that temptation.

The bicycle related angle to all of this has to do with single speed bikes. Yeah.........I know! That's a philosophical ant trap in itself. I really do not want to go there. My angle is a little more practical and, well........more experiential than philosophical. Then again, maybe I'm just lazy!

You see, I grew up on one speed. I suppose alot of you did too. I never had a multi-speed drivetrain until I had a drivers license. (Things got complicated in a hurry!) I didn't get another single speeder until about three years ago. In the time inbetween, I had several derailluer equipped bikes, and many fine experiences. However, I always had that maintenance issue, and then the constant changes! You know........seven speed, then eight. Ah, that's fine! Whoops! Now my eight are obsolete? Wha?!!!.......... And the expense, the wear issues, the constant fine tuning. It wasn't like I couldn't do all of that. It was just all so complicated. Don't get me wrong. Gears are good, and I have plenty of derailluer equipped bikes. It's just that I always pull out that single speed to ride. I'm not sure why. Maybe it's just a whole lot less. Less to think about. That leaves space for some other stuff. Stuff that I enjoy.

I guess maybe it's got something to do with what Matt was trying to do when he shut down his blog the other day.

Simplify.

Calm down.

(Thanks for that influence, Matt.)

So, how about you? Single speed or gears? Doesn't make a difference as long as it's a bike? That's cool too. Me? I'm ridin' the ss today........................

..........................then again, maybe I'm just lazy!

Damage Control

Holidays are over. How many of you are in "damage control" mode now? You know.........too many holiday treats, like Jeff's recent binge on Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Or maybe you put down a few beers or other libations during the past couple of weeks. Whatever it was, usually now is the time that the regret/ reality sets in and you find yourself in the gym.

Now I do not go to a gym. I used to, though, and I can tell you that today, the gym population will increase..............by alot! I also can tell you that the attrition rate is very high. So high, that by mid February, or possibly before, the gym population will have returned back to normal levels. The level of self scarifice exhibited here is humbling. I'm not worthy! Ha!

I saw a question on the Trans Iowa thread on mtbr.com wondering how many of the competitors were starting their training today. I'm guessing that all the answers will be B.S., as most of these people will be gearing up to psyche-out the other roster mates while they themselves will be in double secret training mode! Maybe something like, " Yeah, I had to take it easy during the holidays because we had to visit the in-laws in Walla Walla. Lots of rain there now, ya know, so no training for me! I'll probably start on the trainer tonight." Yeah right! That means that this guy probably has been doing core workouts for the last month, rations his food to the gram, and has at least three eight hour training rides in already. Wouldn't want to tip off the competition! You know.....say you're not training, and maybe they won't get too amped about it quite yet. That way, you'll have the upper hand, baby! (Hey, you can thank me for the tip at Hawarden in April)

Mr. 24 was out on his own gravel grinder yesterday. Looked like fun! Me? I had church band, so I was busy. Hey, I'll get my own rides in, not to worry. I usually ride by myself anyway. Most of the time, that's how it works out, and I'm okay with that. I don't think I've been on a "group ride" since 2003. I don't think I'd know how to act! Looks like it might be awhile before I get anything long in again. The weather looks to make a return to winter at weeks end.

Working on Trans Iowa course details now, anyway. There is alot to "clean up". I think we've got a meet-up with the Decorah people this month too. Things will start getting busier on that front now again. Four months away! I can't wait!

Damage Control

Holidays are over. How many of you are in "damage control" mode now? You know.........too many holiday treats, like Jeff's recent binge on Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Or maybe you put down a few beers or other libations during the past couple of weeks. Whatever it was, usually now is the time that the regret/ reality sets in and you find yourself in the gym.

Now I do not go to a gym. I used to, though, and I can tell you that today, the gym population will increase..............by alot! I also can tell you that the attrition rate is very high. So high, that by mid February, or possibly before, the gym population will have returned back to normal levels. The level of self scarifice exhibited here is humbling. I'm not worthy! Ha!

I saw a question on the Trans Iowa thread on mtbr.com wondering how many of the competitors were starting their training today. I'm guessing that all the answers will be B.S., as most of these people will be gearing up to psyche-out the other roster mates while they themselves will be in double secret training mode! Maybe something like, " Yeah, I had to take it easy during the holidays because we had to visit the in-laws in Walla Walla. Lots of rain there now, ya know, so no training for me! I'll probably start on the trainer tonight." Yeah right! That means that this guy probably has been doing core workouts for the last month, rations his food to the gram, and has at least three eight hour training rides in already. Wouldn't want to tip off the competition! You know.....say you're not training, and maybe they won't get too amped about it quite yet. That way, you'll have the upper hand, baby! (Hey, you can thank me for the tip at Hawarden in April)

Mr. 24 was out on his own gravel grinder yesterday. Looked like fun! Me? I had church band, so I was busy. Hey, I'll get my own rides in, not to worry. I usually ride by myself anyway. Most of the time, that's how it works out, and I'm okay with that. I don't think I've been on a "group ride" since 2003. I don't think I'd know how to act! Looks like it might be awhile before I get anything long in again. The weather looks to make a return to winter at weeks end.

Working on Trans Iowa course details now, anyway. There is alot to "clean up". I think we've got a meet-up with the Decorah people this month too. Things will start getting busier on that front now again. Four months away! I can't wait!

Do What "You" Do- Not What "They" Do

I saw a post on an online forum last night that reminded me of something that is a bit of a peeve to me. Have you ever done this? I'll admit, there was a time when I totally was into this! You know...........doing what the pros do! Setting up your bike just like your favorite offroader-du-jour. Wow! What a huge mistake! Yep, I did it too, can't deny that.

The big problem with setting up your rig just like a pro's bike is this; you do not ride like a "pro", you do not ride where a pro rides, and you are not sponsored! Okay, let me explain all of that!

1. Okay, if you were a "pro" rider; getting paid to ride, you'd be riding all the time. Yep! No time for drinking with your buddies, playing x-box, or checking out a little football action. No way! You are riding ALL the time! Hours and hours each day, honing your skills, fitness, riding style, and equipment to a knife edge so sharp that it will cut hardened steel. It's right for only you- you've invested all that time focusing all those things on your needs, not some "joe-schmoe" trail riders needs.

2. You probably ride some "rad" trails, okay. You might even see some "pro" out riding on your favorite loops. However, you do not ride "where" a pro rides! It makes sense two ways really. One: you do not push yourself into the bleeding eyeball, screaming nerve endings, barely in the realms of conciousness riding areas that most pros do when they compete. Nope, you do not ride "there"............and number two. Nor do you, most likely, rage the same "courses" that they do when they compete. Keep in mind, their rigs are specifically set up for that.

3. This last one should be easy for us all to grasp. Do you ever get replacements for parts you break for free, or complete race rigs for free, or all the riding togs you need.......for free? No? Yeah......me too. This is reflected in the way I choose my parts. Are they reliable? Are they strong? Are they within reason price-wise, so that my wife, kids, and bank account do not suffer adversely from my aquisition of said parts? Real world. Uh-huh.

That's why when I read or hear that someone or other is not going to do or ride such-and-such because "that's not what the pros do" I cringe. Hey, here's an idea! Figure out what works best for you. Yeah, yeah! I know, you will actually have to think about it, maybe even do some research. Experiment, try out some ideas, see if they work for you. Maybe your rig will end up looking un-like anbody elses rig, but that's okay if it works for you on your trails. If you do invest into your riding style, and the way you ride, you just might find out something. You might find out that riding your bike is fun. It's not a statement about how cool you are! It's not about how much you know. It's about fun, fitness, and the challenge.

Now, get rid of that goofy stretched out racer geek set up, drape yourself all comfy like on some sensible trail sled, and let's ride fools! 2006 awaits! Last one out eats my trail roost!

Do What "You" Do- Not What "They" Do

I saw a post on an online forum last night that reminded me of something that is a bit of a peeve to me. Have you ever done this? I'll admit, there was a time when I totally was into this! You know...........doing what the pros do! Setting up your bike just like your favorite offroader-du-jour. Wow! What a huge mistake! Yep, I did it too, can't deny that.

The big problem with setting up your rig just like a pro's bike is this; you do not ride like a "pro", you do not ride where a pro rides, and you are not sponsored! Okay, let me explain all of that!

1. Okay, if you were a "pro" rider; getting paid to ride, you'd be riding all the time. Yep! No time for drinking with your buddies, playing x-box, or checking out a little football action. No way! You are riding ALL the time! Hours and hours each day, honing your skills, fitness, riding style, and equipment to a knife edge so sharp that it will cut hardened steel. It's right for only you- you've invested all that time focusing all those things on your needs, not some "joe-schmoe" trail riders needs.

2. You probably ride some "rad" trails, okay. You might even see some "pro" out riding on your favorite loops. However, you do not ride "where" a pro rides! It makes sense two ways really. One: you do not push yourself into the bleeding eyeball, screaming nerve endings, barely in the realms of conciousness riding areas that most pros do when they compete. Nope, you do not ride "there"............and number two. Nor do you, most likely, rage the same "courses" that they do when they compete. Keep in mind, their rigs are specifically set up for that.

3. This last one should be easy for us all to grasp. Do you ever get replacements for parts you break for free, or complete race rigs for free, or all the riding togs you need.......for free? No? Yeah......me too. This is reflected in the way I choose my parts. Are they reliable? Are they strong? Are they within reason price-wise, so that my wife, kids, and bank account do not suffer adversely from my aquisition of said parts? Real world. Uh-huh.

That's why when I read or hear that someone or other is not going to do or ride such-and-such because "that's not what the pros do" I cringe. Hey, here's an idea! Figure out what works best for you. Yeah, yeah! I know, you will actually have to think about it, maybe even do some research. Experiment, try out some ideas, see if they work for you. Maybe your rig will end up looking un-like anbody elses rig, but that's okay if it works for you on your trails. If you do invest into your riding style, and the way you ride, you just might find out something. You might find out that riding your bike is fun. It's not a statement about how cool you are! It's not about how much you know. It's about fun, fitness, and the challenge.

Now, get rid of that goofy stretched out racer geek set up, drape yourself all comfy like on some sensible trail sled, and let's ride fools! 2006 awaits! Last one out eats my trail roost!

Onward Through The Fog!

Okay, yesterdayI tokk a look over the shoulder. Today, I'm peering into the murky distance and giving you all my twisted, slanted, and highly biased view of The Future! Kind of like those cheesy rags next to the super market checkout. (By the way, just what is so super about a supermarket anyway?)

Personal Ambitions and Goals: Well, all this hanging around Mr. 24 tends to rub off on you, so I may be lining up somewhere for a really long ride. Maybe something in Kansas, maybe somewhere else. Depends on lots of things like family, obligations I'm already committed to and how much I have to cover at the shop for Buchanondale and Mr.24. At least there will be several long rides put in whenever I can. As for the blog, I plan on getting as good as I can.

So, as far as a goal, I'd like to do a ride of at least 200 miles, self supported, and do it in a day. I'd also like to make this blog the most informative, entertaining bicycle related blog around, with a focus on 29"ers, mountainbikes, and endurance events.

The Future: As far as the twenty nine inch wheel goes, I'm quite certain that the category will get increasingly more interest from the mainstream cycling press. The demand will continue to grow. There will be more diversified offerings, as far as bicycle frames go. The component arena is a little slower to follow, specifically in forks and tires. The dearth of wide, freeride type twentynine inch tires will be remedied, but perhaps not until late in the year, at the earliest. Fork manufacturers are either hot for the 29"er, (Rock Shox, White ), or not, ( Manitou, Fox), and I expect it to stay that way for at least '06.

In our neck of the woods there are a few developements, that depending on how things go, could really pump some life back into the flagging mountain bike community here. The Boy Scout Camp at Ingawanis is looking like it might develope into a very fine area for mountain biking, perhaps one of the very best in Iowa. It's going to depend on us locals that care to pitch in to help make that happen, right Carlos? Look for future updates here. Also of interest, the Bike Tech racing team has an event or two planned that could possibly draw a few more locals into being active members of the mountain bike community here. We'll have to see how that goes.

Here is to a fine and happy New Year to all of you out there. I hope your future is bright, and that you meet all of your goals. Be safe, and keep the rubber side down! (That means you, Blue Colnago!)

See you next time. I'm taking the rest of the year off!

Onward Through The Fog!

Okay, yesterdayI tokk a look over the shoulder. Today, I'm peering into the murky distance and giving you all my twisted, slanted, and highly biased view of The Future! Kind of like those cheesy rags next to the super market checkout. (By the way, just what is so super about a supermarket anyway?)

Personal Ambitions and Goals: Well, all this hanging around Mr. 24 tends to rub off on you, so I may be lining up somewhere for a really long ride. Maybe something in Kansas, maybe somewhere else. Depends on lots of things like family, obligations I'm already committed to and how much I have to cover at the shop for Buchanondale and Mr.24. At least there will be several long rides put in whenever I can. As for the blog, I plan on getting as good as I can.

So, as far as a goal, I'd like to do a ride of at least 200 miles, self supported, and do it in a day. I'd also like to make this blog the most informative, entertaining bicycle related blog around, with a focus on 29"ers, mountainbikes, and endurance events.

The Future: As far as the twenty nine inch wheel goes, I'm quite certain that the category will get increasingly more interest from the mainstream cycling press. The demand will continue to grow. There will be more diversified offerings, as far as bicycle frames go. The component arena is a little slower to follow, specifically in forks and tires. The dearth of wide, freeride type twentynine inch tires will be remedied, but perhaps not until late in the year, at the earliest. Fork manufacturers are either hot for the 29"er, (Rock Shox, White ), or not, ( Manitou, Fox), and I expect it to stay that way for at least '06.

In our neck of the woods there are a few developements, that depending on how things go, could really pump some life back into the flagging mountain bike community here. The Boy Scout Camp at Ingawanis is looking like it might develope into a very fine area for mountain biking, perhaps one of the very best in Iowa. It's going to depend on us locals that care to pitch in to help make that happen, right Carlos? Look for future updates here. Also of interest, the Bike Tech racing team has an event or two planned that could possibly draw a few more locals into being active members of the mountain bike community here. We'll have to see how that goes.

Here is to a fine and happy New Year to all of you out there. I hope your future is bright, and that you meet all of your goals. Be safe, and keep the rubber side down! (That means you, Blue Colnago!)

See you next time. I'm taking the rest of the year off!

A Look Over The Shoulder

One of my personal favorite skills I have learned over the years is the "look over the shoulder" to check on things behind me while I'm riding my bicycle. It's a little tricky since you do not want to drift towards the direction that you are looking. When you can get a good look back, and hold a straight line, well.....that's pretty cool!

So, here's my blog/ bicycling related look back at 2005, hopefully without drifting in that direction. Just a good look, ya'all.

Accomplishments: I think the biggest thing here is Jeff Kerkove and I somehow pulling off Trans Iowa back in April. It was amazing, fun, exhausting, and epic. It was well recieved, and we learned alot. About ourselves, other people, and what is possible if you put some effort into it. Now we're doing it all over again! Secondly, I would mention this blog. I never thought that it would take off so well. I am working hard to be better, but I can't deny that I didn't think that someday I'd make something out of my desire to write. Thanks to you all for reading! Watching the accomplishments of others has been gratifying, as well. Kerkove winning races, his Japan trip, Buchanondale coming in second to Mr. 24 at Boone, the Blue Collar Blog getting success, and several other things I'm sure I'm missing. To all of you: Congratulations! It's been a fun year because of you!

Developements: Several things were significant this year in terms of being news, or in terms of change. Matt Chester's blog rolling to a halt tomorrow, two new 29"er sites popping up on the net, and the introduction of the On-One Inbred 29"er come to mind. The impact of Gary Fisher's Rig 29"er single speed, the burgeoning interest in 29"ers overall, and meeting several new people this year are others. In the "29"er world", I had the pleasure of meeting Mike Curiak, Ryan Atkinson, and several riders too numerous to mention. Lots of changes! Lots of new things!

Just A Quick Look: When you are riding, you only have time for a quick look back. No gazing back over the horizons crossed or you will surely wreck! With that in mind, I'm sure that I didn't catch a few things with this quick look back, but I have to keep my focus on the road ahead! There are hills to climb, and sweet decents to relish. Some surprises and some goals to be met. Tomorrow, I'll give you all a glimpse of what I'm seeing on my radar screen. OUT!

A Look Over The Shoulder

One of my personal favorite skills I have learned over the years is the "look over the shoulder" to check on things behind me while I'm riding my bicycle. It's a little tricky since you do not want to drift towards the direction that you are looking. When you can get a good look back, and hold a straight line, well.....that's pretty cool!

So, here's my blog/ bicycling related look back at 2005, hopefully without drifting in that direction. Just a good look, ya'all.

Accomplishments: I think the biggest thing here is Jeff Kerkove and I somehow pulling off Trans Iowa back in April. It was amazing, fun, exhausting, and epic. It was well recieved, and we learned alot. About ourselves, other people, and what is possible if you put some effort into it. Now we're doing it all over again! Secondly, I would mention this blog. I never thought that it would take off so well. I am working hard to be better, but I can't deny that I didn't think that someday I'd make something out of my desire to write. Thanks to you all for reading! Watching the accomplishments of others has been gratifying, as well. Kerkove winning races, his Japan trip, Buchanondale coming in second to Mr. 24 at Boone, the Blue Collar Blog getting success, and several other things I'm sure I'm missing. To all of you: Congratulations! It's been a fun year because of you!

Developements: Several things were significant this year in terms of being news, or in terms of change. Matt Chester's blog rolling to a halt tomorrow, two new 29"er sites popping up on the net, and the introduction of the On-One Inbred 29"er come to mind. The impact of Gary Fisher's Rig 29"er single speed, the burgeoning interest in 29"ers overall, and meeting several new people this year are others. In the "29"er world", I had the pleasure of meeting Mike Curiak, Ryan Atkinson, and several riders too numerous to mention. Lots of changes! Lots of new things!

Just A Quick Look: When you are riding, you only have time for a quick look back. No gazing back over the horizons crossed or you will surely wreck! With that in mind, I'm sure that I didn't catch a few things with this quick look back, but I have to keep my focus on the road ahead! There are hills to climb, and sweet decents to relish. Some surprises and some goals to be met. Tomorrow, I'll give you all a glimpse of what I'm seeing on my radar screen. OUT!

Reactions

I am impressed with the reactions, folks! First, a big thanks to Jeff Kerkove for the "sprucing up". (He said the blog needed it!) Any props go to him for the re-do. You know, he does do graphic design work, so check him out if you need anything!

Secondly; I'd like to thank you all for your insightful comments to my recent posts. Many good points were made. I'd like to address some of those now.

As to the comment made that longer endurance races "separate the men from the boys", I'd like to say that in no way did I mean to diminish the accomplishments of the solo rider, or any of the serious, competitive team efforts. I was referencing the riders who are more interested in the atmousphere of camaraderie and revelry than racing. Having said that, the ultra-endurance event would still be a step above, in my opinion, in terms of difficulty. I'm talking about events held off-road at 200 plus miles. Make sense?

The comment on point to point races in terms of the ultra endurance event and the logistical problems that presents to the participants is well taken. However; it should be noted that the issue is being looked at by at least one race promoter. The un-officially named "Flint Hills 200" has set their course as one continuous loop, so that the issue of transportation is nullified. I like the idea, and if it were not for the great relationships we have with the starting and finishing towns in Trans Iowa, I would seriously consider this arrangement.

And now for a reaction not related to this blog..............

Mr. 24 had a great rant on his site concerning the misinformation of consumers by bike shop sales staffers. This hits pretty close to home for me, as I work in a shop. The thing is, it's not just bike shops that do this. I'm not trying to deflect blame here, just pointing out that it's a widespread problem in retail. There are several reasons for why this happens, but the point is that the responsibility resides with the captain of the ship.

If you work in a retail environment that doesn't invest in it's employees- either in training, personal relationships, or monetarily, (hopefully- ALL THREE) then you really cannot expect to see high performance from the employees. You wouldn't run your equipment without proper maintenance if you wanted the best performance, so why would you expect an employee to perform at a high level without the maintenance and training that is required by today's high tech marketplace? Without that input, employees will fill the void with crap!

Of course, the employee has a responsibility to the employer as well. Too many times, it is heard that the employer cannot find suitably motivated, willing, and capable people. That cannot be solved by using the best training, personal relationship skills, or with money. That's a whole 'nuther story there!

Well, enough of that! Glad you all like the new look, (at least I didn't recieve any negative comments) see you later! Ride on!

Reactions

I am impressed with the reactions, folks! First, a big thanks to Jeff Kerkove for the "sprucing up". (He said the blog needed it!) Any props go to him for the re-do. You know, he does do graphic design work, so check him out if you need anything!

Secondly; I'd like to thank you all for your insightful comments to my recent posts. Many good points were made. I'd like to address some of those now.

As to the comment made that longer endurance races "separate the men from the boys", I'd like to say that in no way did I mean to diminish the accomplishments of the solo rider, or any of the serious, competitive team efforts. I was referencing the riders who are more interested in the atmousphere of camaraderie and revelry than racing. Having said that, the ultra-endurance event would still be a step above, in my opinion, in terms of difficulty. I'm talking about events held off-road at 200 plus miles. Make sense?

The comment on point to point races in terms of the ultra endurance event and the logistical problems that presents to the participants is well taken. However; it should be noted that the issue is being looked at by at least one race promoter. The un-officially named "Flint Hills 200" has set their course as one continuous loop, so that the issue of transportation is nullified. I like the idea, and if it were not for the great relationships we have with the starting and finishing towns in Trans Iowa, I would seriously consider this arrangement.

And now for a reaction not related to this blog..............

Mr. 24 had a great rant on his site concerning the misinformation of consumers by bike shop sales staffers. This hits pretty close to home for me, as I work in a shop. The thing is, it's not just bike shops that do this. I'm not trying to deflect blame here, just pointing out that it's a widespread problem in retail. There are several reasons for why this happens, but the point is that the responsibility resides with the captain of the ship.

If you work in a retail environment that doesn't invest in it's employees- either in training, personal relationships, or monetarily, (hopefully- ALL THREE) then you really cannot expect to see high performance from the employees. You wouldn't run your equipment without proper maintenance if you wanted the best performance, so why would you expect an employee to perform at a high level without the maintenance and training that is required by today's high tech marketplace? Without that input, employees will fill the void with crap!

Of course, the employee has a responsibility to the employer as well. Too many times, it is heard that the employer cannot find suitably motivated, willing, and capable people. That cannot be solved by using the best training, personal relationship skills, or with money. That's a whole 'nuther story there!

Well, enough of that! Glad you all like the new look, (at least I didn't recieve any negative comments) see you later! Ride on!

A New Trend? Part II

I noticed that on the endurance forum, hosted by mtbr.com, that the race dates for the 24hrs of Adrenaline are.....how shall I say this?.......a bit late in coming? Hmm....... As you might remember, this organization has experienced quite a bit of turmoil throughout the last season, what with the Conyers, GA debacle and the banning of Mr. 24. Well, I and many others have predicted that the organization would be suffering some grave consequences due to their quetionable customer relations skills. So, I have been watching that thread with interest.

In one of the posts, it was mentioned that folks should forget about "riding around in circles" and sign up for events like Trans Rockies, which is a point to point, multi-day event. In my earlier "A New Trend?" post, I asked whether or not these types of point to point, mega-mile, endurance type events were getting some momentum behind them. The sentiments expressed on the mtbr.com Endurance Forum would seem to bear this out.

On the other hand, I do not think it can be called a trend until the folks that make up the multi-person 24hr teams, the folks that revel more than race, become enamoured of such events as Trans Rockies. Then again, that won't happen until the event organizers re-invent their events to include people such as this.

Perhaps they shouldn't. Maybe that is part of the appeal for the cutting edge endurance rider. These ultra-endurance events tend to separate the men from the boys, and perhaps that is what makes the events such as Trans Rockies, or Trans Iowa for that matter, stand apart. It makes finishing an event such as that special. Not just anyone can do it. It would seem that just about anyone can do a 24hr. race in some form or another, and claim some sort of badge of honor for it, does it not?

Fair Warning: If you come to this site and find that it does not look familiar, it's because some madman at Kerkove Media got his grubby little fingers on my blog template! You have here by been fore warned!

A New Trend? Part II

I noticed that on the endurance forum, hosted by mtbr.com, that the race dates for the 24hrs of Adrenaline are.....how shall I say this?.......a bit late in coming? Hmm....... As you might remember, this organization has experienced quite a bit of turmoil throughout the last season, what with the Conyers, GA debacle and the banning of Mr. 24. Well, I and many others have predicted that the organization would be suffering some grave consequences due to their quetionable customer relations skills. So, I have been watching that thread with interest.

In one of the posts, it was mentioned that folks should forget about "riding around in circles" and sign up for events like Trans Rockies, which is a point to point, multi-day event. In my earlier "A New Trend?" post, I asked whether or not these types of point to point, mega-mile, endurance type events were getting some momentum behind them. The sentiments expressed on the mtbr.com Endurance Forum would seem to bear this out.

On the other hand, I do not think it can be called a trend until the folks that make up the multi-person 24hr teams, the folks that revel more than race, become enamoured of such events as Trans Rockies. Then again, that won't happen until the event organizers re-invent their events to include people such as this.

Perhaps they shouldn't. Maybe that is part of the appeal for the cutting edge endurance rider. These ultra-endurance events tend to separate the men from the boys, and perhaps that is what makes the events such as Trans Rockies, or Trans Iowa for that matter, stand apart. It makes finishing an event such as that special. Not just anyone can do it. It would seem that just about anyone can do a 24hr. race in some form or another, and claim some sort of badge of honor for it, does it not?

Fair Warning: If you come to this site and find that it does not look familiar, it's because some madman at Kerkove Media got his grubby little fingers on my blog template! You have here by been fore warned!

Out Riding, Or In?

It seems as though everybody that was so excited to get into Trans Iowa has disappeared under rocks or something. Discussion board is dead. I suppose everyone is (a) either on holiday, or (b) training like a fool , or (c) doing both "a" and "b" to stay away from all the "crap food", as Mr. 24 likes to call it. So, I pose this question: Do you ride inside or outside this time of year? Maybe you don't ride at all right now, but lift weights, cross train, or wrestle pigs?

My inclination is to ride outside, whenever possible. Thank God I found XC skiing, too! I can always do that when the riding conditions are no good! I just do not relish the thought of shoving metal plates up and down, or doing the "hamster wheel" on an indoor trainer. BAH! If I wanted to bask in the humid gym air, taking in the wafting odors of several peoples bodies at once with every intake of breath, I'd join a herd of cattle! Been there, smelled that. Then you also get to deal with paying good money to enjoy the benifits of club membership! Yeeeeeaaaah. Like the guy that stalks the squat rack like a prowling lion, and then grunts like a pig in heat when he atempts to herniate his intestines all over the gym floor. Nah! No thanks. I'll be outdoors! At least out there, if I hear any grunting, I'll know spring is in the air because it's the beggining of outdoor mating season.

And rollers?..............don't even go there!

Sooooo.......................How's the training going? I mean, for you, ya know.

Out Riding, Or In?

It seems as though everybody that was so excited to get into Trans Iowa has disappeared under rocks or something. Discussion board is dead. I suppose everyone is (a) either on holiday, or (b) training like a fool , or (c) doing both "a" and "b" to stay away from all the "crap food", as Mr. 24 likes to call it. So, I pose this question: Do you ride inside or outside this time of year? Maybe you don't ride at all right now, but lift weights, cross train, or wrestle pigs?

My inclination is to ride outside, whenever possible. Thank God I found XC skiing, too! I can always do that when the riding conditions are no good! I just do not relish the thought of shoving metal plates up and down, or doing the "hamster wheel" on an indoor trainer. BAH! If I wanted to bask in the humid gym air, taking in the wafting odors of several peoples bodies at once with every intake of breath, I'd join a herd of cattle! Been there, smelled that. Then you also get to deal with paying good money to enjoy the benifits of club membership! Yeeeeeaaaah. Like the guy that stalks the squat rack like a prowling lion, and then grunts like a pig in heat when he atempts to herniate his intestines all over the gym floor. Nah! No thanks. I'll be outdoors! At least out there, if I hear any grunting, I'll know spring is in the air because it's the beggining of outdoor mating season.

And rollers?..............don't even go there!

Sooooo.......................How's the training going? I mean, for you, ya know.