Well, it looks as though another component maker is jumping into the 10 speed mtb group rumor wars. (Although this rumor appears to be a pretty solid one) You have read my takes on the 10 speed mtb stuff here and on The Bike Lab before. Check out what James Huang from cyclingnews.com speculates on here.
I've been saying for two years or more that a 10 speed mtb group was going to be coming. It is inevitable. Once road gruppos went 10 speed, I figured it would be a matter of time, then when 11 speed road gruppos came out, I knew it was a certainty. Look for a ten speed mtb group from SRAM or FSA next spring. Shimano won't be far behind. The next XTR will most assuredly be 10 speed.
What does this all mean for the "average" mountain biker? Most of this 10 speed off road gear madness will be directed at racers. It will be heinously expensive. And......it won't be durable enough for everyday use! So, will 10 speed trickle down to lower groups? Will 9 speed someday be on Tourney equipped "mart-bikes"? Will my stuff be outdated in 2011?
The answers are not clear, but my feelings are as follows: Yes, yes, and no. Let me explain. First of all, there is no doubt that eventually 10 speed mtb stuff will be on XT equipped rigs and probably down to what we know as LX now. (But will be re-named most likely) SLX stuff will stay 9 speed, and parts makers will offer 9 speed as All Mountain/Free ride/ Down Hill stuff in the future. It will be a no brainer to go this route since they will still be catering to the racing crowd and not lose the "core" mtb'ers in the process. (Not to mention the fact that any AM/FR/DH'er worth his salt would destroy a 10 speed mtb group in one ride.)
I would change my opinion only if one thing happens with SRAM's new XX group and that is if they go to 140OD on axles. (Really, the smart move is to go to 150mm, but I think they would split the difference there) Why would this make a difference? Because instead of making everything thinner to stuff one more cog in there, as they have been doing for the last 20 years, the cog thicknesses could remain the same, and durability would not be affected. This obviously would be a revolutionary move that would make all your bikes obsolete in one fell swoop. Not a move to be taken lightly, so I wouldn't expect that to happen.
Nine speed "mart-bikes"? Yep! Look for ten speed mtb hardware to push 9 speed down spec to entry level parts. "Big Box" retailers would love this, because in consumers eyes they would be getting a "bike shop" level drive train at "mart-bike" prices. Not only that, but the inevitable increases in goods could be offset somewhat by adding this "benefit" to department store bicycles. I think it is a done deal once 10 speed hits the upper levels.
Will your stuff be outdated in 2011? I don't see that happening. But what will happen is that seven speed stuff will be gone, (It almost is now) and 8 speed stuff will be phased out over a period of time. So, if you are into upper level 8 speed, you'd better start hording now. The jig is up for your preferred parts. Nine speed stuff should be produced for the foreseeable future. I don't see that going away anytime soon.
Finally, I think ten speed mountain bike gear is ridiculous and will be problematic unless we go to a wider rear hub spacing. (James Huang hints at this, I think, when he reports on the nature of the cassette for the upcoming XX SRAM gruppo by saying, "......but modified for better performance in muddy conditions with a more open architecture." I mean, there isn't much "opening" one can do on a current 10 speed cassette. Especially in terms of fouling with mud or plant debris. (Did I mention that 10 speed stuff will be problematic?) A widening of the spacing is what would be effective, and widening the over lock dimension of axles would accommodate this. Either that or dish the wheels some more. (Gah! The thought of that makes me shudder! )
Well, all this will certainly pale in comparison once FSA launches their rumored 11 speed mtb stuff!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
SRAM To Do A 2 X 10 MTB Gruppo?
Well, it looks as though another component maker is jumping into the 10 speed mtb group rumor wars. (Although this rumor appears to be a pretty solid one) You have read my takes on the 10 speed mtb stuff here and on The Bike Lab before. Check out what James Huang from cyclingnews.com speculates on here.
I've been saying for two years or more that a 10 speed mtb group was going to be coming. It is inevitable. Once road gruppos went 10 speed, I figured it would be a matter of time, then when 11 speed road gruppos came out, I knew it was a certainty. Look for a ten speed mtb group from SRAM or FSA next spring. Shimano won't be far behind. The next XTR will most assuredly be 10 speed.
What does this all mean for the "average" mountain biker? Most of this 10 speed off road gear madness will be directed at racers. It will be heinously expensive. And......it won't be durable enough for everyday use! So, will 10 speed trickle down to lower groups? Will 9 speed someday be on Tourney equipped "mart-bikes"? Will my stuff be outdated in 2011?
The answers are not clear, but my feelings are as follows: Yes, yes, and no. Let me explain. First of all, there is no doubt that eventually 10 speed mtb stuff will be on XT equipped rigs and probably down to what we know as LX now. (But will be re-named most likely) SLX stuff will stay 9 speed, and parts makers will offer 9 speed as All Mountain/Free ride/ Down Hill stuff in the future. It will be a no brainer to go this route since they will still be catering to the racing crowd and not lose the "core" mtb'ers in the process. (Not to mention the fact that any AM/FR/DH'er worth his salt would destroy a 10 speed mtb group in one ride.)
I would change my opinion only if one thing happens with SRAM's new XX group and that is if they go to 140OD on axles. (Really, the smart move is to go to 150mm, but I think they would split the difference there) Why would this make a difference? Because instead of making everything thinner to stuff one more cog in there, as they have been doing for the last 20 years, the cog thicknesses could remain the same, and durability would not be affected. This obviously would be a revolutionary move that would make all your bikes obsolete in one fell swoop. Not a move to be taken lightly, so I wouldn't expect that to happen.
Nine speed "mart-bikes"? Yep! Look for ten speed mtb hardware to push 9 speed down spec to entry level parts. "Big Box" retailers would love this, because in consumers eyes they would be getting a "bike shop" level drive train at "mart-bike" prices. Not only that, but the inevitable increases in goods could be offset somewhat by adding this "benefit" to department store bicycles. I think it is a done deal once 10 speed hits the upper levels.
Will your stuff be outdated in 2011? I don't see that happening. But what will happen is that seven speed stuff will be gone, (It almost is now) and 8 speed stuff will be phased out over a period of time. So, if you are into upper level 8 speed, you'd better start hording now. The jig is up for your preferred parts. Nine speed stuff should be produced for the foreseeable future. I don't see that going away anytime soon.
Finally, I think ten speed mountain bike gear is ridiculous and will be problematic unless we go to a wider rear hub spacing. (James Huang hints at this, I think, when he reports on the nature of the cassette for the upcoming XX SRAM gruppo by saying, "......but modified for better performance in muddy conditions with a more open architecture." I mean, there isn't much "opening" one can do on a current 10 speed cassette. Especially in terms of fouling with mud or plant debris. (Did I mention that 10 speed stuff will be problematic?) A widening of the spacing is what would be effective, and widening the over lock dimension of axles would accommodate this. Either that or dish the wheels some more. (Gah! The thought of that makes me shudder! )
Well, all this will certainly pale in comparison once FSA launches their rumored 11 speed mtb stuff!
I've been saying for two years or more that a 10 speed mtb group was going to be coming. It is inevitable. Once road gruppos went 10 speed, I figured it would be a matter of time, then when 11 speed road gruppos came out, I knew it was a certainty. Look for a ten speed mtb group from SRAM or FSA next spring. Shimano won't be far behind. The next XTR will most assuredly be 10 speed.
What does this all mean for the "average" mountain biker? Most of this 10 speed off road gear madness will be directed at racers. It will be heinously expensive. And......it won't be durable enough for everyday use! So, will 10 speed trickle down to lower groups? Will 9 speed someday be on Tourney equipped "mart-bikes"? Will my stuff be outdated in 2011?
The answers are not clear, but my feelings are as follows: Yes, yes, and no. Let me explain. First of all, there is no doubt that eventually 10 speed mtb stuff will be on XT equipped rigs and probably down to what we know as LX now. (But will be re-named most likely) SLX stuff will stay 9 speed, and parts makers will offer 9 speed as All Mountain/Free ride/ Down Hill stuff in the future. It will be a no brainer to go this route since they will still be catering to the racing crowd and not lose the "core" mtb'ers in the process. (Not to mention the fact that any AM/FR/DH'er worth his salt would destroy a 10 speed mtb group in one ride.)
I would change my opinion only if one thing happens with SRAM's new XX group and that is if they go to 140OD on axles. (Really, the smart move is to go to 150mm, but I think they would split the difference there) Why would this make a difference? Because instead of making everything thinner to stuff one more cog in there, as they have been doing for the last 20 years, the cog thicknesses could remain the same, and durability would not be affected. This obviously would be a revolutionary move that would make all your bikes obsolete in one fell swoop. Not a move to be taken lightly, so I wouldn't expect that to happen.
Nine speed "mart-bikes"? Yep! Look for ten speed mtb hardware to push 9 speed down spec to entry level parts. "Big Box" retailers would love this, because in consumers eyes they would be getting a "bike shop" level drive train at "mart-bike" prices. Not only that, but the inevitable increases in goods could be offset somewhat by adding this "benefit" to department store bicycles. I think it is a done deal once 10 speed hits the upper levels.
Will your stuff be outdated in 2011? I don't see that happening. But what will happen is that seven speed stuff will be gone, (It almost is now) and 8 speed stuff will be phased out over a period of time. So, if you are into upper level 8 speed, you'd better start hording now. The jig is up for your preferred parts. Nine speed stuff should be produced for the foreseeable future. I don't see that going away anytime soon.
Finally, I think ten speed mountain bike gear is ridiculous and will be problematic unless we go to a wider rear hub spacing. (James Huang hints at this, I think, when he reports on the nature of the cassette for the upcoming XX SRAM gruppo by saying, "......but modified for better performance in muddy conditions with a more open architecture." I mean, there isn't much "opening" one can do on a current 10 speed cassette. Especially in terms of fouling with mud or plant debris. (Did I mention that 10 speed stuff will be problematic?) A widening of the spacing is what would be effective, and widening the over lock dimension of axles would accommodate this. Either that or dish the wheels some more. (Gah! The thought of that makes me shudder! )
Well, all this will certainly pale in comparison once FSA launches their rumored 11 speed mtb stuff!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Getting A Piece Of The Pie!
<===The first entry for T.I.V5 came with a pizza attached!
So, there I was, trying to make the best out of an exceptionally slow November day in a bicycle shop when the front door opens. in walks a young man with one of those insulated bags held in one hand by a strap that anyone could easily recognize as a pizza bag.
I'm thinking, "Maybe the pizza joint down the strip here has an abandoned pizza." Sometimes our neighboring pizza place gives us a pie that folks order but never pick up, or one that they make wrong. It's rare, but I've seen it happen. I mean, why else is a pizza guy here? There were only three of us working, one of us was out running errands and my boss would never order pizza for the staff. Nope.......never.
Then I'm thinking maybe he did. But just then, the guy with the pizza says, "You know anything about this pizza being delivered? Anybody call you?" Of course, I didn't know a thing about it. Well, it turns out that the pizza guy was a bit befuddled too, "Yeah, some guy called in and ordered this. Said something about a race and gave us some information?...."
Oh yeah.............it's all coming together for me now!
<===The goods.
A public thanks for the strangest Trans Iowa entry...........yet.
Oh yeah! I shared. It was very good too, by the way. There was only one issue I had with this though.
There wasn't enough beer with it!
Stay tuned! More Trans Iowa entries should be showing up today and I'll be busy updating the roster at the site later this evening.
Thanks again Mr. Armstrong! (T.I.V4 veteran)
Getting A Piece Of The Pie!
<===The first entry for T.I.V5 came with a pizza attached!
So, there I was, trying to make the best out of an exceptionally slow November day in a bicycle shop when the front door opens. in walks a young man with one of those insulated bags held in one hand by a strap that anyone could easily recognize as a pizza bag.
I'm thinking, "Maybe the pizza joint down the strip here has an abandoned pizza." Sometimes our neighboring pizza place gives us a pie that folks order but never pick up, or one that they make wrong. It's rare, but I've seen it happen. I mean, why else is a pizza guy here? There were only three of us working, one of us was out running errands and my boss would never order pizza for the staff. Nope.......never.
Then I'm thinking maybe he did. But just then, the guy with the pizza says, "You know anything about this pizza being delivered? Anybody call you?" Of course, I didn't know a thing about it. Well, it turns out that the pizza guy was a bit befuddled too, "Yeah, some guy called in and ordered this. Said something about a race and gave us some information?...."
Oh yeah.............it's all coming together for me now!
<===The goods.
A public thanks for the strangest Trans Iowa entry...........yet.
Oh yeah! I shared. It was very good too, by the way. There was only one issue I had with this though.
There wasn't enough beer with it!
Stay tuned! More Trans Iowa entries should be showing up today and I'll be busy updating the roster at the site later this evening.
Thanks again Mr. Armstrong! (T.I.V4 veteran)
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Touring Tuesdays: The Old Barn
This installment finds the "Beg, Borrow, and Bastard Tour" in a campground with an immense barn converted for business located just northeast of Preston, Minnesota.
This was actually an old barn, but not just any old barn. No! It was a huge, immense old barn, three stories high, and long enough to store all the cows that three average farmers might have today. There was a long ramp made of earth that led us to the second story from the west. Inside we saw a rental and souvenir shop for cyclists and campers. There was an office also, and further down a long central hallway there was a restaurant. I noticed a staircase going up to the third storey. After we found out where we could camp, we went around the north side of the barn to the east end. There was another long, low building there that was modern, and much newer than the rest. This housed a pool and a bike rental shop. We found our camping spot, and in the fading light we set our tents up for the first time.
I had a traditional two man "pup" tent borrowed from Steve. Steve was using a more modern backpacker type tent, two man size with an alcove. Troy had a single man, backpacking style tent also borrowed from Steve. It reminded me of a coffin. Even though my tent was heavier, I was glad I didn't get the tent Troy was using after I saw it.
Our camping area was back in a wooded corner of the campground on top of a hill. It was very agreeable to all of us. We found out our "neighbors" were actually from Cedar Falls! They gave us enthusiastic approval on our plans to go to Canada. It made me think of that "small world" saying!
We settled in and drank our beer purchased at the little store inside the Old Barn. We made our supper from dehydrated dinners that we packed. We found this, and all subsequent dehydrated fare, to be most excellent. We all shared in carrying the food load, but Steve carried a stove and fuel to cook with. Both Steve and Troy had their own backpacker type silverware, but I had none. So.....you guessed it! I borrowed again!
After the meal, we all wandered down to find the showers located on the lower level of the barn which was exposed on the west end of the hill which it was built in to. This was originally where the cows were let in for milking. Now it is where they let in the humans for cleaning, and sleeping, and eating. The showers were located in the east end, the hostel in the middle, and the vending machines in the west end. The west end also housed a laundry and a place to use phones or watch T.V. So, I showered, got a soda out of a vending machine, used the phone, and took my weary body back to my tent where I slept very well!
Additional info: I will say that in this story, I forgot to add that Steve and Troy were a bit skeptical that I would be of much use the following day, due to this day being my first century and all. There was some discussion that evening about a plan of attack concerning my certain demise the following day. Troy suggesting that a regimen of stretching before and after sleeping would help, while Steve was just pretty much convinced I would be toast! In the final analysis, there wasn't much to be concerned about, but at this point, all three of us were seriously doubtful I would go very far the next day.
The next installment will be the beginning of "Day Two: Bluff Country"
This was actually an old barn, but not just any old barn. No! It was a huge, immense old barn, three stories high, and long enough to store all the cows that three average farmers might have today. There was a long ramp made of earth that led us to the second story from the west. Inside we saw a rental and souvenir shop for cyclists and campers. There was an office also, and further down a long central hallway there was a restaurant. I noticed a staircase going up to the third storey. After we found out where we could camp, we went around the north side of the barn to the east end. There was another long, low building there that was modern, and much newer than the rest. This housed a pool and a bike rental shop. We found our camping spot, and in the fading light we set our tents up for the first time.
I had a traditional two man "pup" tent borrowed from Steve. Steve was using a more modern backpacker type tent, two man size with an alcove. Troy had a single man, backpacking style tent also borrowed from Steve. It reminded me of a coffin. Even though my tent was heavier, I was glad I didn't get the tent Troy was using after I saw it.
Our camping area was back in a wooded corner of the campground on top of a hill. It was very agreeable to all of us. We found out our "neighbors" were actually from Cedar Falls! They gave us enthusiastic approval on our plans to go to Canada. It made me think of that "small world" saying!
We settled in and drank our beer purchased at the little store inside the Old Barn. We made our supper from dehydrated dinners that we packed. We found this, and all subsequent dehydrated fare, to be most excellent. We all shared in carrying the food load, but Steve carried a stove and fuel to cook with. Both Steve and Troy had their own backpacker type silverware, but I had none. So.....you guessed it! I borrowed again!
After the meal, we all wandered down to find the showers located on the lower level of the barn which was exposed on the west end of the hill which it was built in to. This was originally where the cows were let in for milking. Now it is where they let in the humans for cleaning, and sleeping, and eating. The showers were located in the east end, the hostel in the middle, and the vending machines in the west end. The west end also housed a laundry and a place to use phones or watch T.V. So, I showered, got a soda out of a vending machine, used the phone, and took my weary body back to my tent where I slept very well!
Additional info: I will say that in this story, I forgot to add that Steve and Troy were a bit skeptical that I would be of much use the following day, due to this day being my first century and all. There was some discussion that evening about a plan of attack concerning my certain demise the following day. Troy suggesting that a regimen of stretching before and after sleeping would help, while Steve was just pretty much convinced I would be toast! In the final analysis, there wasn't much to be concerned about, but at this point, all three of us were seriously doubtful I would go very far the next day.
The next installment will be the beginning of "Day Two: Bluff Country"
Touring Tuesdays: The Old Barn
This installment finds the "Beg, Borrow, and Bastard Tour" in a campground with an immense barn converted for business located just northeast of Preston, Minnesota.
This was actually an old barn, but not just any old barn. No! It was a huge, immense old barn, three stories high, and long enough to store all the cows that three average farmers might have today. There was a long ramp made of earth that led us to the second story from the west. Inside we saw a rental and souvenir shop for cyclists and campers. There was an office also, and further down a long central hallway there was a restaurant. I noticed a staircase going up to the third storey. After we found out where we could camp, we went around the north side of the barn to the east end. There was another long, low building there that was modern, and much newer than the rest. This housed a pool and a bike rental shop. We found our camping spot, and in the fading light we set our tents up for the first time.
I had a traditional two man "pup" tent borrowed from Steve. Steve was using a more modern backpacker type tent, two man size with an alcove. Troy had a single man, backpacking style tent also borrowed from Steve. It reminded me of a coffin. Even though my tent was heavier, I was glad I didn't get the tent Troy was using after I saw it.
Our camping area was back in a wooded corner of the campground on top of a hill. It was very agreeable to all of us. We found out our "neighbors" were actually from Cedar Falls! They gave us enthusiastic approval on our plans to go to Canada. It made me think of that "small world" saying!
We settled in and drank our beer purchased at the little store inside the Old Barn. We made our supper from dehydrated dinners that we packed. We found this, and all subsequent dehydrated fare, to be most excellent. We all shared in carrying the food load, but Steve carried a stove and fuel to cook with. Both Steve and Troy had their own backpacker type silverware, but I had none. So.....you guessed it! I borrowed again!
After the meal, we all wandered down to find the showers located on the lower level of the barn which was exposed on the west end of the hill which it was built in to. This was originally where the cows were let in for milking. Now it is where they let in the humans for cleaning, and sleeping, and eating. The showers were located in the east end, the hostel in the middle, and the vending machines in the west end. The west end also housed a laundry and a place to use phones or watch T.V. So, I showered, got a soda out of a vending machine, used the phone, and took my weary body back to my tent where I slept very well!
Additional info: I will say that in this story, I forgot to add that Steve and Troy were a bit skeptical that I would be of much use the following day, due to this day being my first century and all. There was some discussion that evening about a plan of attack concerning my certain demise the following day. Troy suggesting that a regimen of stretching before and after sleeping would help, while Steve was just pretty much convinced I would be toast! In the final analysis, there wasn't much to be concerned about, but at this point, all three of us were seriously doubtful I would go very far the next day.
The next installment will be the beginning of "Day Two: Bluff Country"
This was actually an old barn, but not just any old barn. No! It was a huge, immense old barn, three stories high, and long enough to store all the cows that three average farmers might have today. There was a long ramp made of earth that led us to the second story from the west. Inside we saw a rental and souvenir shop for cyclists and campers. There was an office also, and further down a long central hallway there was a restaurant. I noticed a staircase going up to the third storey. After we found out where we could camp, we went around the north side of the barn to the east end. There was another long, low building there that was modern, and much newer than the rest. This housed a pool and a bike rental shop. We found our camping spot, and in the fading light we set our tents up for the first time.
I had a traditional two man "pup" tent borrowed from Steve. Steve was using a more modern backpacker type tent, two man size with an alcove. Troy had a single man, backpacking style tent also borrowed from Steve. It reminded me of a coffin. Even though my tent was heavier, I was glad I didn't get the tent Troy was using after I saw it.
Our camping area was back in a wooded corner of the campground on top of a hill. It was very agreeable to all of us. We found out our "neighbors" were actually from Cedar Falls! They gave us enthusiastic approval on our plans to go to Canada. It made me think of that "small world" saying!
We settled in and drank our beer purchased at the little store inside the Old Barn. We made our supper from dehydrated dinners that we packed. We found this, and all subsequent dehydrated fare, to be most excellent. We all shared in carrying the food load, but Steve carried a stove and fuel to cook with. Both Steve and Troy had their own backpacker type silverware, but I had none. So.....you guessed it! I borrowed again!
After the meal, we all wandered down to find the showers located on the lower level of the barn which was exposed on the west end of the hill which it was built in to. This was originally where the cows were let in for milking. Now it is where they let in the humans for cleaning, and sleeping, and eating. The showers were located in the east end, the hostel in the middle, and the vending machines in the west end. The west end also housed a laundry and a place to use phones or watch T.V. So, I showered, got a soda out of a vending machine, used the phone, and took my weary body back to my tent where I slept very well!
Additional info: I will say that in this story, I forgot to add that Steve and Troy were a bit skeptical that I would be of much use the following day, due to this day being my first century and all. There was some discussion that evening about a plan of attack concerning my certain demise the following day. Troy suggesting that a regimen of stretching before and after sleeping would help, while Steve was just pretty much convinced I would be toast! In the final analysis, there wasn't much to be concerned about, but at this point, all three of us were seriously doubtful I would go very far the next day.
The next installment will be the beginning of "Day Two: Bluff Country"
Monday, November 10, 2008
Trans Iowa Registration To Open Tomorrow!
Well, I'm betting there are a few post cards in the USPS hopper on their way to the shop tomorrow for T.I.V5 . Registration for past participants only will be taking place starting then for a week. then on the 17th we'll take on any cards from folks wanting in until the roster is filled, (I'm betting that won't take long.) or until November 24th when registration closes. (Not likely to get that far) Oh yeah! Make sure I can read your post cards folks! Illegible cards won't make the roster and I am the judge on that. Make it look good, okay?
In other Trans Iowa news: Recon of a short section of the course had to be postponed due to last weeks storm and wetness. There is about a 20 mile section that we want to look at that might become a bit of a re-route. It won't affect the overall mileage much if at all. We're just looking for better roads and safer in this particular area than we have chosen now. Not that they are bad as is, just not up to our standards, if you will.
Otherwise the course is pretty much locked in as of now. We are considering a complete drive of the course again later on to ascertain the soundness of the roads before the event. This will happen if and when we can get out there, most likely next spring.
Work continues on sponsors for this years event. The latest sponsor to be announced is our good friends at Twin Six. Trans Iowa founder, Jeff Kerkove started rockin' The 6 about as soon as Ryan and Brent fired up their first t-shirt designs back in the day. Of course Jeff spread the love and infected me and several others back then, so Twin Six is old hat for us. We love the stuff. You should too. Click the link. Check out the latest. Did I mention that they are finally doing wool? No? (Insider tip: Want to make Brent squeal like a school girl? Give him a "dude hug". Tell him Guitar Ted sent ya!)
<=== Milwaukee Bicycle Company 29"er
In other happenings: Milwaukee Bicycle Company's 29"er is out here getting thrashed in the woods for Twenty Nine Inches. I got a chance to sneak out for a ride on Sunday in the 25 degree temperatures we experienced. I hit up the Green Belt and checked out the MBC 29"er on my "back yard" trails. It's a pretty springy, comfortable bike. I'm still dialing in the saddle yet, (Note the wonky angle of the saddle in the pic. Hey! It actually felt comfy this way!)
I'll be testing this sweet rig for a bit, so if you see something dirty and white fly by, that's me! (Some would say I'm dirty and white without the bicycle, but that's another subject!) This time out I found that my legs weren't quite with the program. I felt sluggish, not really motivated. I decided to not push the issue and just cruise. I wanted to dial in the set up on this bike, so any time I could put in would be useful to me in that way. I stopped a couple of times to adjust the saddle angle and then went on my way.
I crossed Ridgeway and dove into the "upper trail" to the left there right after entering the section south of Ridgeway. I made my way through, stopping to hike over a couple of downed trees along the way. In one spot, I actually re-routed the corner around a dead fall. It should be a better way around and will avoid dealing with a near impossible hike-a-bike over a dead fall. Not much, but I do my part where I can!
Well, all this fooling around ate into my sunlight. I only had a commuter light with me to get me home once I exited the Green Belt. I saw the first signs of fading light and put down the hammer. Strangely enough, the legs responded well and I made decent time home. Good thing too, because darkness falls real quick this time of year. Almost startingly quick!
This week is supposed to moderate in temperature up into the 40's for daytime highs. I will be testing again on Wednesday and I hope the weather holds out! Yesterday was borderline too cold to get much done, but I'll take what I can get this time of the year!
Stay tuned to the Trans Iowa site for roster updates starting tomorrow night!
In other Trans Iowa news: Recon of a short section of the course had to be postponed due to last weeks storm and wetness. There is about a 20 mile section that we want to look at that might become a bit of a re-route. It won't affect the overall mileage much if at all. We're just looking for better roads and safer in this particular area than we have chosen now. Not that they are bad as is, just not up to our standards, if you will.
Otherwise the course is pretty much locked in as of now. We are considering a complete drive of the course again later on to ascertain the soundness of the roads before the event. This will happen if and when we can get out there, most likely next spring.
Work continues on sponsors for this years event. The latest sponsor to be announced is our good friends at Twin Six. Trans Iowa founder, Jeff Kerkove started rockin' The 6 about as soon as Ryan and Brent fired up their first t-shirt designs back in the day. Of course Jeff spread the love and infected me and several others back then, so Twin Six is old hat for us. We love the stuff. You should too. Click the link. Check out the latest. Did I mention that they are finally doing wool? No? (Insider tip: Want to make Brent squeal like a school girl? Give him a "dude hug". Tell him Guitar Ted sent ya!)
<=== Milwaukee Bicycle Company 29"er
In other happenings: Milwaukee Bicycle Company's 29"er is out here getting thrashed in the woods for Twenty Nine Inches. I got a chance to sneak out for a ride on Sunday in the 25 degree temperatures we experienced. I hit up the Green Belt and checked out the MBC 29"er on my "back yard" trails. It's a pretty springy, comfortable bike. I'm still dialing in the saddle yet, (Note the wonky angle of the saddle in the pic. Hey! It actually felt comfy this way!)
I'll be testing this sweet rig for a bit, so if you see something dirty and white fly by, that's me! (Some would say I'm dirty and white without the bicycle, but that's another subject!) This time out I found that my legs weren't quite with the program. I felt sluggish, not really motivated. I decided to not push the issue and just cruise. I wanted to dial in the set up on this bike, so any time I could put in would be useful to me in that way. I stopped a couple of times to adjust the saddle angle and then went on my way.
I crossed Ridgeway and dove into the "upper trail" to the left there right after entering the section south of Ridgeway. I made my way through, stopping to hike over a couple of downed trees along the way. In one spot, I actually re-routed the corner around a dead fall. It should be a better way around and will avoid dealing with a near impossible hike-a-bike over a dead fall. Not much, but I do my part where I can!
Well, all this fooling around ate into my sunlight. I only had a commuter light with me to get me home once I exited the Green Belt. I saw the first signs of fading light and put down the hammer. Strangely enough, the legs responded well and I made decent time home. Good thing too, because darkness falls real quick this time of year. Almost startingly quick!
This week is supposed to moderate in temperature up into the 40's for daytime highs. I will be testing again on Wednesday and I hope the weather holds out! Yesterday was borderline too cold to get much done, but I'll take what I can get this time of the year!
Stay tuned to the Trans Iowa site for roster updates starting tomorrow night!
Trans Iowa Registration To Open Tomorrow!
Well, I'm betting there are a few post cards in the USPS hopper on their way to the shop tomorrow for T.I.V5 . Registration for past participants only will be taking place starting then for a week. then on the 17th we'll take on any cards from folks wanting in until the roster is filled, (I'm betting that won't take long.) or until November 24th when registration closes. (Not likely to get that far) Oh yeah! Make sure I can read your post cards folks! Illegible cards won't make the roster and I am the judge on that. Make it look good, okay?
In other Trans Iowa news: Recon of a short section of the course had to be postponed due to last weeks storm and wetness. There is about a 20 mile section that we want to look at that might become a bit of a re-route. It won't affect the overall mileage much if at all. We're just looking for better roads and safer in this particular area than we have chosen now. Not that they are bad as is, just not up to our standards, if you will.
Otherwise the course is pretty much locked in as of now. We are considering a complete drive of the course again later on to ascertain the soundness of the roads before the event. This will happen if and when we can get out there, most likely next spring.
Work continues on sponsors for this years event. The latest sponsor to be announced is our good friends at Twin Six. Trans Iowa founder, Jeff Kerkove started rockin' The 6 about as soon as Ryan and Brent fired up their first t-shirt designs back in the day. Of course Jeff spread the love and infected me and several others back then, so Twin Six is old hat for us. We love the stuff. You should too. Click the link. Check out the latest. Did I mention that they are finally doing wool? No? (Insider tip: Want to make Brent squeal like a school girl? Give him a "dude hug". Tell him Guitar Ted sent ya!)
<=== Milwaukee Bicycle Company 29"er
In other happenings: Milwaukee Bicycle Company's 29"er is out here getting thrashed in the woods for Twenty Nine Inches. I got a chance to sneak out for a ride on Sunday in the 25 degree temperatures we experienced. I hit up the Green Belt and checked out the MBC 29"er on my "back yard" trails. It's a pretty springy, comfortable bike. I'm still dialing in the saddle yet, (Note the wonky angle of the saddle in the pic. Hey! It actually felt comfy this way!)
I'll be testing this sweet rig for a bit, so if you see something dirty and white fly by, that's me! (Some would say I'm dirty and white without the bicycle, but that's another subject!) This time out I found that my legs weren't quite with the program. I felt sluggish, not really motivated. I decided to not push the issue and just cruise. I wanted to dial in the set up on this bike, so any time I could put in would be useful to me in that way. I stopped a couple of times to adjust the saddle angle and then went on my way.
I crossed Ridgeway and dove into the "upper trail" to the left there right after entering the section south of Ridgeway. I made my way through, stopping to hike over a couple of downed trees along the way. In one spot, I actually re-routed the corner around a dead fall. It should be a better way around and will avoid dealing with a near impossible hike-a-bike over a dead fall. Not much, but I do my part where I can!
Well, all this fooling around ate into my sunlight. I only had a commuter light with me to get me home once I exited the Green Belt. I saw the first signs of fading light and put down the hammer. Strangely enough, the legs responded well and I made decent time home. Good thing too, because darkness falls real quick this time of year. Almost startingly quick!
This week is supposed to moderate in temperature up into the 40's for daytime highs. I will be testing again on Wednesday and I hope the weather holds out! Yesterday was borderline too cold to get much done, but I'll take what I can get this time of the year!
Stay tuned to the Trans Iowa site for roster updates starting tomorrow night!
In other Trans Iowa news: Recon of a short section of the course had to be postponed due to last weeks storm and wetness. There is about a 20 mile section that we want to look at that might become a bit of a re-route. It won't affect the overall mileage much if at all. We're just looking for better roads and safer in this particular area than we have chosen now. Not that they are bad as is, just not up to our standards, if you will.
Otherwise the course is pretty much locked in as of now. We are considering a complete drive of the course again later on to ascertain the soundness of the roads before the event. This will happen if and when we can get out there, most likely next spring.
Work continues on sponsors for this years event. The latest sponsor to be announced is our good friends at Twin Six. Trans Iowa founder, Jeff Kerkove started rockin' The 6 about as soon as Ryan and Brent fired up their first t-shirt designs back in the day. Of course Jeff spread the love and infected me and several others back then, so Twin Six is old hat for us. We love the stuff. You should too. Click the link. Check out the latest. Did I mention that they are finally doing wool? No? (Insider tip: Want to make Brent squeal like a school girl? Give him a "dude hug". Tell him Guitar Ted sent ya!)
<=== Milwaukee Bicycle Company 29"er
In other happenings: Milwaukee Bicycle Company's 29"er is out here getting thrashed in the woods for Twenty Nine Inches. I got a chance to sneak out for a ride on Sunday in the 25 degree temperatures we experienced. I hit up the Green Belt and checked out the MBC 29"er on my "back yard" trails. It's a pretty springy, comfortable bike. I'm still dialing in the saddle yet, (Note the wonky angle of the saddle in the pic. Hey! It actually felt comfy this way!)
I'll be testing this sweet rig for a bit, so if you see something dirty and white fly by, that's me! (Some would say I'm dirty and white without the bicycle, but that's another subject!) This time out I found that my legs weren't quite with the program. I felt sluggish, not really motivated. I decided to not push the issue and just cruise. I wanted to dial in the set up on this bike, so any time I could put in would be useful to me in that way. I stopped a couple of times to adjust the saddle angle and then went on my way.
I crossed Ridgeway and dove into the "upper trail" to the left there right after entering the section south of Ridgeway. I made my way through, stopping to hike over a couple of downed trees along the way. In one spot, I actually re-routed the corner around a dead fall. It should be a better way around and will avoid dealing with a near impossible hike-a-bike over a dead fall. Not much, but I do my part where I can!
Well, all this fooling around ate into my sunlight. I only had a commuter light with me to get me home once I exited the Green Belt. I saw the first signs of fading light and put down the hammer. Strangely enough, the legs responded well and I made decent time home. Good thing too, because darkness falls real quick this time of year. Almost startingly quick!
This week is supposed to moderate in temperature up into the 40's for daytime highs. I will be testing again on Wednesday and I hope the weather holds out! Yesterday was borderline too cold to get much done, but I'll take what I can get this time of the year!
Stay tuned to the Trans Iowa site for roster updates starting tomorrow night!
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Another Fargo Adventure
Okay, okay! I just got done doing a three parter about riding Fargos and here I am again posting about the Fargo. Better get used to it! This bike is that awesome!This rig is getting the full on review/test on Twenty Nine Inches in the next few months, so look for more about the bike in particular there. I will most likely document the adventure side of it here.
Today's adventure was a trip up to the fire road through Black Hawk Park. I got through a bit of my urban commute route to get to Hartman Reserve's lower side and old Shirey Way. It is pretty much a Class B road these days and it was a bit slickery with all the precip around here lately. In fact, it sputtered snow and fine rain all the time I was out.
I got through the bike path on Riverside Trail to Pfieffer Park and crossed Krieg's Crossing over the Cedar to Geo Wyth and on to Cedar Falls. I passed another intrepid road cyclist riding a gray Specialized rig and waved hello as I passed him by on my way to Big Woods Lake. A half a lap on that path and on to Black Hawk Park in a pretty steady and tough headwind. Feel the burn!
On my way into the park, I met the same dude on the Specialized going with the wind, which he was quick to point out to me, as if I had it wrong. Guess he never read Kerkove's blog. "The wind is our mountain", right Jeff? Well, anyway, I made it into the park and went through to the old service road that goes up to Washington/Union access.
I went around to the Ford Road cutoff and took it north, as I had heard it was passable. Well, it was, barely! I had a hike-a-bike and several get offs for blow downs. I thought I might not ever see Ford Road! Finally, I saw some open trail and made it up to a tunnel of trees that was right above my head all around. Yep! Just like last year. Not much has changed except that in November the underbrush is dead. I climbed out up the steepish single track, out the dead straight access road and turned south on Ford Road.
I was out in the open again, but this time I was with the wind, so I ended up in the big ring, which on the Fargo is a 46T. Yay! I made great time on the wet, peanut buttery limestone.
Even though I only did this shortish piece of gravel on my ride, I was totally stoked on how the Fargo handled the gravel. The smallish vibrations from tractor tires and the road grader were all absorbed really well by the Classico CroMoly tubing. Nice! I can't wait to throw down some multi-hour rides on the gravel aboard this rig. It will be a good one to use for this, as the water bottle count can go up to six and there is room for my frame pump which will help keep weight off my back.
I went through Cedar Falls again, Cottage Row, the bike path by the damaged Boat House, and past down town on my way to Geo Wyth once again. This time I wanted to check out some single track in the park. The ride last Wednesday was great on single track, so I was anxious to get in some more aboard the Fargo.
The trails were a bit too slick for the Vulpines nearly treadless casing, so instead of pushing the issue, I only did one trail and bailed off to the paved path again. I'll have to throw on something a bit more knobular for my next single track attempt. After stopping at the campground to refuel, I went to grab the Fargo. Wha.....? The front tire was flat! I rolled it around just a few inches and saw the culprit. A big ol' thorn! Time to change the tube!
Well, in near freezing conditions with a steady Northwesterly wind blowing on you, it doesn't take long to freeze the life out of your fingers when they are handling metal and rubber. I took several "warm up" breaks, so the tire change took twice as long, but I retained a modicum of flexibility and feeling in my hands!
Not wanting to tempt fate any further, I high tailed it home and then found that I had forgotten my keys! Mrs. Guitar Ted was out, so I was too! Thank God it only was a half an hour later that she and the kids arrived back home and let my cold shivering body back into the warmth of the house.
So, about four hours out there today and I accomplished getting the Midge Bars into a position I am happy with. I also will now cut down that steer tube some more since the position is nearly spot on. Also of interest, the bar end shifters fit right into the Midge Bars with no problem. I had heard that they didn't, so this was a nice surprise for me. All in all, I have the major stuff dialed in for now. Later on, I will be adding a few things to try out like fenders, a rack, and a couple more water bottle cages.
So, get ready to see more of this bike. A lot more!
Another Fargo Adventure
Okay, okay! I just got done doing a three parter about riding Fargos and here I am again posting about the Fargo. Better get used to it! This bike is that awesome!This rig is getting the full on review/test on Twenty Nine Inches in the next few months, so look for more about the bike in particular there. I will most likely document the adventure side of it here.
Today's adventure was a trip up to the fire road through Black Hawk Park. I got through a bit of my urban commute route to get to Hartman Reserve's lower side and old Shirey Way. It is pretty much a Class B road these days and it was a bit slickery with all the precip around here lately. In fact, it sputtered snow and fine rain all the time I was out.
I got through the bike path on Riverside Trail to Pfieffer Park and crossed Krieg's Crossing over the Cedar to Geo Wyth and on to Cedar Falls. I passed another intrepid road cyclist riding a gray Specialized rig and waved hello as I passed him by on my way to Big Woods Lake. A half a lap on that path and on to Black Hawk Park in a pretty steady and tough headwind. Feel the burn!
On my way into the park, I met the same dude on the Specialized going with the wind, which he was quick to point out to me, as if I had it wrong. Guess he never read Kerkove's blog. "The wind is our mountain", right Jeff? Well, anyway, I made it into the park and went through to the old service road that goes up to Washington/Union access.
I went around to the Ford Road cutoff and took it north, as I had heard it was passable. Well, it was, barely! I had a hike-a-bike and several get offs for blow downs. I thought I might not ever see Ford Road! Finally, I saw some open trail and made it up to a tunnel of trees that was right above my head all around. Yep! Just like last year. Not much has changed except that in November the underbrush is dead. I climbed out up the steepish single track, out the dead straight access road and turned south on Ford Road.
I was out in the open again, but this time I was with the wind, so I ended up in the big ring, which on the Fargo is a 46T. Yay! I made great time on the wet, peanut buttery limestone.
Even though I only did this shortish piece of gravel on my ride, I was totally stoked on how the Fargo handled the gravel. The smallish vibrations from tractor tires and the road grader were all absorbed really well by the Classico CroMoly tubing. Nice! I can't wait to throw down some multi-hour rides on the gravel aboard this rig. It will be a good one to use for this, as the water bottle count can go up to six and there is room for my frame pump which will help keep weight off my back.
I went through Cedar Falls again, Cottage Row, the bike path by the damaged Boat House, and past down town on my way to Geo Wyth once again. This time I wanted to check out some single track in the park. The ride last Wednesday was great on single track, so I was anxious to get in some more aboard the Fargo.
The trails were a bit too slick for the Vulpines nearly treadless casing, so instead of pushing the issue, I only did one trail and bailed off to the paved path again. I'll have to throw on something a bit more knobular for my next single track attempt. After stopping at the campground to refuel, I went to grab the Fargo. Wha.....? The front tire was flat! I rolled it around just a few inches and saw the culprit. A big ol' thorn! Time to change the tube!
Well, in near freezing conditions with a steady Northwesterly wind blowing on you, it doesn't take long to freeze the life out of your fingers when they are handling metal and rubber. I took several "warm up" breaks, so the tire change took twice as long, but I retained a modicum of flexibility and feeling in my hands!
Not wanting to tempt fate any further, I high tailed it home and then found that I had forgotten my keys! Mrs. Guitar Ted was out, so I was too! Thank God it only was a half an hour later that she and the kids arrived back home and let my cold shivering body back into the warmth of the house.
So, about four hours out there today and I accomplished getting the Midge Bars into a position I am happy with. I also will now cut down that steer tube some more since the position is nearly spot on. Also of interest, the bar end shifters fit right into the Midge Bars with no problem. I had heard that they didn't, so this was a nice surprise for me. All in all, I have the major stuff dialed in for now. Later on, I will be adding a few things to try out like fenders, a rack, and a couple more water bottle cages.
So, get ready to see more of this bike. A lot more!
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Owls And Otters: A Fargo Adventure Part III
After crossing Nine Mile Creek there was more fast, swoopy, twisty fun single track until we were dumped out at a parking lot just down from Bloomington Ferry Road. We had a steepish, longish climb out from the river valley to pavement that would take us to Quality Bicycle Products and Salsa HQ. The group broke up here, as a lot of us had to go to work at QBP. Captain Bob, Jason B, Miker, and I all went upstairs to the Salsa nerve center where several of The Crew were working away. Of course, our presence caused most work to come to a grinding halt! Note to Jason: Iowegians not good for productivity!
After hanging out there talking with David, Bobby, Steve, and a couple other guys, we took our leave and Miker, Jason B, Captain Bob, and myself headed back for the starting point of our adventure.
By now the weather was quite pleasant. The sun was coming through in fitful spurts and the wind was blowing, but down in the single track, that didn't matter. The trail seemed rougher both to myself and to Captain Bob. I ended up biffing again in a sandy corner. Nothing big. Just a washout.
<===Jason B and the Captain led the way all the way back while Miker and I took a more measured pace!
After we got going again I wasn't "in the groove" and I found myself making mistakes. I had to really concentrate on the trail. Finally, the "zen" feeling came back and of course, the single track petered out just then into double track road. Oh well! Chalk it up to not eating enough on the bike, (or at all, really) and not sleeping enough the night before which had followed a day of single speeding. But if you are going to have an adventure, there has to be something out of sorts, right?
<===A sampling of some huge graffiti. These letters were 20 feet high off the ground to their tops.
Coming back on the double track, we saw the coyote we heard about from Miker earlier. It saw us, of course, right away and ditched off the trail to the river side and skirted us down along the waters edge for a stealthy escape. That was a pretty cool deal though. A coyote right in the heart of suburbia!
<===The trails back to the car were much like this near the end of the ride.
We were all grinding away, chatting and cruising along for the last miles not wanting to stop. Captain Bob said later that the last five miles were pure torture, since he was starting to bonk. I was getting really hungry myself. You'll notice that we didn't stop for lunch, and it was nearing 2 pm.!
The last stretch was up an incline and I put my legs into "auto cruise" mode and spun up. I still felt good, I just needed to eat something.........soon!
<===Sibley House is a grouping of stone structures dating from the late 1800's in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Our ride started and stopped just beyond here in a parking lot.
The last bit of the ride was cool because we didn't see it in the pre-dawn darkness going out. So even though we'd "been there", we hadn't really "done that", so it was nice to see those sights.
Up around a corner and a gentle downhill to the parking lot where it all began hours before. We had gone something like 40-45 miles, seen various wild life forms, had a woodsie breakfast, hung out with some really cool folks, and rode our bikes on pavement, gravel, dirt roads, single track, and sand. We even got rained on and crossed a creek on a primitive ferry. How often does all that happen?
Well, I'll tell you, not very dang often! It was a very special day, and a ton of fun!
<=== And now, a few words about our vehicle of choice, the Salsa Cycles Fargo!
Well, I must say first that no other bicycle in recent memory has stirred such passion, interest, and controversy as this bike. For some, it is an answer to a conundrum faced for years, for some it is a revelation of "epic" proportions, and for some, it is a missed shot across the bow. Whatever it is for you, here is my take on what the Fargo is.
It is a fun machine. It is a ticket to places and experiences that maybe other bikes could manage, but the Fargo is made for. It does loads, it does roads, it does dirt, sand, and gravel. It can change direction in a catlike manner, yet it can ride like a magic carpet with a load on. Maybe it looks awkward, or gangly to some, but get beyond the looks and you can ride an adventure bike that can take you places and do things better than any other 29"er, (for sure) and better than most any other rig I know of that is mass produced.
Dollar for dollar this Fargo will "out-fun" any other bike I have hands down. That's been proven to me, and I'm betting it will be proven out for a lot of folks. Maybe they should have named this bike the "Fun-go".......nah! To close to fungi, I suppose!
Anyway, the Fargo. Fun on two wheels. go anywhere, smile!
Special Thanks: Brent and Ryan of Twin Six, Jason Boucher, Mike "Kid" Reimer, Joe Meiser, Bobby, David, Steve, and the rest of the Salsa Cycles Crew, (If I forgot your name, insert it here!_______) Quality Bicycle Products, Captain Bob, Our Lovely Wives! Thanks God!
After hanging out there talking with David, Bobby, Steve, and a couple other guys, we took our leave and Miker, Jason B, Captain Bob, and myself headed back for the starting point of our adventure.
By now the weather was quite pleasant. The sun was coming through in fitful spurts and the wind was blowing, but down in the single track, that didn't matter. The trail seemed rougher both to myself and to Captain Bob. I ended up biffing again in a sandy corner. Nothing big. Just a washout.
<===Jason B and the Captain led the way all the way back while Miker and I took a more measured pace!
After we got going again I wasn't "in the groove" and I found myself making mistakes. I had to really concentrate on the trail. Finally, the "zen" feeling came back and of course, the single track petered out just then into double track road. Oh well! Chalk it up to not eating enough on the bike, (or at all, really) and not sleeping enough the night before which had followed a day of single speeding. But if you are going to have an adventure, there has to be something out of sorts, right?
<===A sampling of some huge graffiti. These letters were 20 feet high off the ground to their tops.
Coming back on the double track, we saw the coyote we heard about from Miker earlier. It saw us, of course, right away and ditched off the trail to the river side and skirted us down along the waters edge for a stealthy escape. That was a pretty cool deal though. A coyote right in the heart of suburbia!
<===The trails back to the car were much like this near the end of the ride.
We were all grinding away, chatting and cruising along for the last miles not wanting to stop. Captain Bob said later that the last five miles were pure torture, since he was starting to bonk. I was getting really hungry myself. You'll notice that we didn't stop for lunch, and it was nearing 2 pm.!
The last stretch was up an incline and I put my legs into "auto cruise" mode and spun up. I still felt good, I just needed to eat something.........soon!
<===Sibley House is a grouping of stone structures dating from the late 1800's in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Our ride started and stopped just beyond here in a parking lot.
The last bit of the ride was cool because we didn't see it in the pre-dawn darkness going out. So even though we'd "been there", we hadn't really "done that", so it was nice to see those sights.
Up around a corner and a gentle downhill to the parking lot where it all began hours before. We had gone something like 40-45 miles, seen various wild life forms, had a woodsie breakfast, hung out with some really cool folks, and rode our bikes on pavement, gravel, dirt roads, single track, and sand. We even got rained on and crossed a creek on a primitive ferry. How often does all that happen?
Well, I'll tell you, not very dang often! It was a very special day, and a ton of fun!
<=== And now, a few words about our vehicle of choice, the Salsa Cycles Fargo!
Well, I must say first that no other bicycle in recent memory has stirred such passion, interest, and controversy as this bike. For some, it is an answer to a conundrum faced for years, for some it is a revelation of "epic" proportions, and for some, it is a missed shot across the bow. Whatever it is for you, here is my take on what the Fargo is.
It is a fun machine. It is a ticket to places and experiences that maybe other bikes could manage, but the Fargo is made for. It does loads, it does roads, it does dirt, sand, and gravel. It can change direction in a catlike manner, yet it can ride like a magic carpet with a load on. Maybe it looks awkward, or gangly to some, but get beyond the looks and you can ride an adventure bike that can take you places and do things better than any other 29"er, (for sure) and better than most any other rig I know of that is mass produced.
Dollar for dollar this Fargo will "out-fun" any other bike I have hands down. That's been proven to me, and I'm betting it will be proven out for a lot of folks. Maybe they should have named this bike the "Fun-go".......nah! To close to fungi, I suppose!
Anyway, the Fargo. Fun on two wheels. go anywhere, smile!
Special Thanks: Brent and Ryan of Twin Six, Jason Boucher, Mike "Kid" Reimer, Joe Meiser, Bobby, David, Steve, and the rest of the Salsa Cycles Crew, (If I forgot your name, insert it here!_______) Quality Bicycle Products, Captain Bob, Our Lovely Wives! Thanks God!
Owls And Otters: A Fargo Adventure Part III
After crossing Nine Mile Creek there was more fast, swoopy, twisty fun single track until we were dumped out at a parking lot just down from Bloomington Ferry Road. We had a steepish, longish climb out from the river valley to pavement that would take us to Quality Bicycle Products and Salsa HQ. The group broke up here, as a lot of us had to go to work at QBP. Captain Bob, Jason B, Miker, and I all went upstairs to the Salsa nerve center where several of The Crew were working away. Of course, our presence caused most work to come to a grinding halt! Note to Jason: Iowegians not good for productivity!
After hanging out there talking with David, Bobby, Steve, and a couple other guys, we took our leave and Miker, Jason B, Captain Bob, and myself headed back for the starting point of our adventure.
By now the weather was quite pleasant. The sun was coming through in fitful spurts and the wind was blowing, but down in the single track, that didn't matter. The trail seemed rougher both to myself and to Captain Bob. I ended up biffing again in a sandy corner. Nothing big. Just a washout.
<===Jason B and the Captain led the way all the way back while Miker and I took a more measured pace!
After we got going again I wasn't "in the groove" and I found myself making mistakes. I had to really concentrate on the trail. Finally, the "zen" feeling came back and of course, the single track petered out just then into double track road. Oh well! Chalk it up to not eating enough on the bike, (or at all, really) and not sleeping enough the night before which had followed a day of single speeding. But if you are going to have an adventure, there has to be something out of sorts, right?
<===A sampling of some huge graffiti. These letters were 20 feet high off the ground to their tops.
Coming back on the double track, we saw the coyote we heard about from Miker earlier. It saw us, of course, right away and ditched off the trail to the river side and skirted us down along the waters edge for a stealthy escape. That was a pretty cool deal though. A coyote right in the heart of suburbia!
<===The trails back to the car were much like this near the end of the ride.
We were all grinding away, chatting and cruising along for the last miles not wanting to stop. Captain Bob said later that the last five miles were pure torture, since he was starting to bonk. I was getting really hungry myself. You'll notice that we didn't stop for lunch, and it was nearing 2 pm.!
The last stretch was up an incline and I put my legs into "auto cruise" mode and spun up. I still felt good, I just needed to eat something.........soon!
<===Sibley House is a grouping of stone structures dating from the late 1800's in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Our ride started and stopped just beyond here in a parking lot.
The last bit of the ride was cool because we didn't see it in the pre-dawn darkness going out. So even though we'd "been there", we hadn't really "done that", so it was nice to see those sights.
Up around a corner and a gentle downhill to the parking lot where it all began hours before. We had gone something like 40-45 miles, seen various wild life forms, had a woodsie breakfast, hung out with some really cool folks, and rode our bikes on pavement, gravel, dirt roads, single track, and sand. We even got rained on and crossed a creek on a primitive ferry. How often does all that happen?
Well, I'll tell you, not very dang often! It was a very special day, and a ton of fun!
<=== And now, a few words about our vehicle of choice, the Salsa Cycles Fargo!
Well, I must say first that no other bicycle in recent memory has stirred such passion, interest, and controversy as this bike. For some, it is an answer to a conundrum faced for years, for some it is a revelation of "epic" proportions, and for some, it is a missed shot across the bow. Whatever it is for you, here is my take on what the Fargo is.
It is a fun machine. It is a ticket to places and experiences that maybe other bikes could manage, but the Fargo is made for. It does loads, it does roads, it does dirt, sand, and gravel. It can change direction in a catlike manner, yet it can ride like a magic carpet with a load on. Maybe it looks awkward, or gangly to some, but get beyond the looks and you can ride an adventure bike that can take you places and do things better than any other 29"er, (for sure) and better than most any other rig I know of that is mass produced.
Dollar for dollar this Fargo will "out-fun" any other bike I have hands down. That's been proven to me, and I'm betting it will be proven out for a lot of folks. Maybe they should have named this bike the "Fun-go".......nah! To close to fungi, I suppose!
Anyway, the Fargo. Fun on two wheels. go anywhere, smile!
Special Thanks: Brent and Ryan of Twin Six, Jason Boucher, Mike "Kid" Reimer, Joe Meiser, Bobby, David, Steve, and the rest of the Salsa Cycles Crew, (If I forgot your name, insert it here!_______) Quality Bicycle Products, Captain Bob, Our Lovely Wives! Thanks God!
After hanging out there talking with David, Bobby, Steve, and a couple other guys, we took our leave and Miker, Jason B, Captain Bob, and myself headed back for the starting point of our adventure.
By now the weather was quite pleasant. The sun was coming through in fitful spurts and the wind was blowing, but down in the single track, that didn't matter. The trail seemed rougher both to myself and to Captain Bob. I ended up biffing again in a sandy corner. Nothing big. Just a washout.
<===Jason B and the Captain led the way all the way back while Miker and I took a more measured pace!
After we got going again I wasn't "in the groove" and I found myself making mistakes. I had to really concentrate on the trail. Finally, the "zen" feeling came back and of course, the single track petered out just then into double track road. Oh well! Chalk it up to not eating enough on the bike, (or at all, really) and not sleeping enough the night before which had followed a day of single speeding. But if you are going to have an adventure, there has to be something out of sorts, right?
<===A sampling of some huge graffiti. These letters were 20 feet high off the ground to their tops.
Coming back on the double track, we saw the coyote we heard about from Miker earlier. It saw us, of course, right away and ditched off the trail to the river side and skirted us down along the waters edge for a stealthy escape. That was a pretty cool deal though. A coyote right in the heart of suburbia!
<===The trails back to the car were much like this near the end of the ride.
We were all grinding away, chatting and cruising along for the last miles not wanting to stop. Captain Bob said later that the last five miles were pure torture, since he was starting to bonk. I was getting really hungry myself. You'll notice that we didn't stop for lunch, and it was nearing 2 pm.!
The last stretch was up an incline and I put my legs into "auto cruise" mode and spun up. I still felt good, I just needed to eat something.........soon!
<===Sibley House is a grouping of stone structures dating from the late 1800's in Saint Paul, Minnesota. Our ride started and stopped just beyond here in a parking lot.
The last bit of the ride was cool because we didn't see it in the pre-dawn darkness going out. So even though we'd "been there", we hadn't really "done that", so it was nice to see those sights.
Up around a corner and a gentle downhill to the parking lot where it all began hours before. We had gone something like 40-45 miles, seen various wild life forms, had a woodsie breakfast, hung out with some really cool folks, and rode our bikes on pavement, gravel, dirt roads, single track, and sand. We even got rained on and crossed a creek on a primitive ferry. How often does all that happen?
Well, I'll tell you, not very dang often! It was a very special day, and a ton of fun!
<=== And now, a few words about our vehicle of choice, the Salsa Cycles Fargo!
Well, I must say first that no other bicycle in recent memory has stirred such passion, interest, and controversy as this bike. For some, it is an answer to a conundrum faced for years, for some it is a revelation of "epic" proportions, and for some, it is a missed shot across the bow. Whatever it is for you, here is my take on what the Fargo is.
It is a fun machine. It is a ticket to places and experiences that maybe other bikes could manage, but the Fargo is made for. It does loads, it does roads, it does dirt, sand, and gravel. It can change direction in a catlike manner, yet it can ride like a magic carpet with a load on. Maybe it looks awkward, or gangly to some, but get beyond the looks and you can ride an adventure bike that can take you places and do things better than any other 29"er, (for sure) and better than most any other rig I know of that is mass produced.
Dollar for dollar this Fargo will "out-fun" any other bike I have hands down. That's been proven to me, and I'm betting it will be proven out for a lot of folks. Maybe they should have named this bike the "Fun-go".......nah! To close to fungi, I suppose!
Anyway, the Fargo. Fun on two wheels. go anywhere, smile!
Special Thanks: Brent and Ryan of Twin Six, Jason Boucher, Mike "Kid" Reimer, Joe Meiser, Bobby, David, Steve, and the rest of the Salsa Cycles Crew, (If I forgot your name, insert it here!_______) Quality Bicycle Products, Captain Bob, Our Lovely Wives! Thanks God!
Friday, November 07, 2008
Owls And Otters: A Fargo Adventure Part II
As Jason, Captain Bob, and I headed back to the parking lot in the pre-dawn darkness I was not sure this adventure was shaping up to be a very pleasant or enduring one. Rain was starting to pelt us pretty good at one point, and my clothes were beginning to get soaked. At least the temperature was decent at a balmy, (by November standards) 64 degrees!
As we approached the parking lot, Jason saw that there was no one there so he chose to keep right on rolling to the "drop in" to the river trails. As we did, the rain lessened and by the time we found ourselves rolling on some flat double track, it had stopped completely. We could see signs of morning light shrouded by gray, hurrying cloud cover. It was about here that Jason came to a sudden halt and said, "Owl!" as he pointed upwards just in front and above his head. There was a large Owl that was staring at us in the gloom. It took flight and disappeared into the trees further into the woods. Cool!
<==Tough to see, but these are river otters poking their heads out of the water.
Then we rolled onwards, the darkness gave way to grayish morning light and we traveled down some more double track towards the Cedar Street bridge. Not long after we saw the owl, Jason stopped again as he noticed a commotion along the river bank. Four river otters were playing, splashing, and diving in the water. We stopped and watched a minute or two until they noticed us and stopped to watch us as well. I managed a shot with my camera and then we were off again.
<===The group stands around and chats while Jason and Joe get coffee on the boil for us all.
After a bit more twisty single track, we pulled off to the side, dismounted and parked our rigs, while Jason and Joe pulled out their cooking gear. Others made a quick ground fire to ward off the chill of the morning, although the temperature was still in the mid-sixties. Soon coffee was being doled out, espresso, oatmeal, chocolate covered raisins, trail mix, and yes.....even Miker's hard boiled eggs with hot sauce! It was an odd breakfast, but it was really fun. Some of the group were actually riding into work at QBP. I was thinking, "Man! There is no way I'm working after a ride like this!" The thing was, we weren't even halfway done yet!
<===The ferry across Nine Mile Creek.
We eventually got everything packed up and everyone back on their bikes for more single track goodness. The trails were dry, hard, and fast with a few exceptions were the moisture was coming out of the ground and the trail was wet or greasy. There were parts where it was sandy, but for the most part, the sand was packed down really well by the volume of cyclists that traverse these trails.
I saw what appeared to me was a berm and set my front wheel in the midst of the "berm" getting ready to rail it when whumpf! I went off the bike and crashed heavily on my right side. Note to self: Sand doesn't make a great berm to rail a corner on, especially the fine river bottom sand found here!
Eventually we came to a get off where we had to hike over a small creek. Then not long after that, we crossed the ferry on Nine Mile Creek. The "ferry" is nothing more than an old floating "diving platform", not unlike what you might find in any upper Mid-West woodsy resort lake area. It is tied to some pull ropes and sits between two guide ropes, so that it doesn't float off down stream. We took turns getting across to continue our way in to Quality Bicycle Products.
Next installment: We finish the ride in, see the Salsa HQ, and begin our ride back to where we came from.
As we approached the parking lot, Jason saw that there was no one there so he chose to keep right on rolling to the "drop in" to the river trails. As we did, the rain lessened and by the time we found ourselves rolling on some flat double track, it had stopped completely. We could see signs of morning light shrouded by gray, hurrying cloud cover. It was about here that Jason came to a sudden halt and said, "Owl!" as he pointed upwards just in front and above his head. There was a large Owl that was staring at us in the gloom. It took flight and disappeared into the trees further into the woods. Cool!
<==Tough to see, but these are river otters poking their heads out of the water.
Then we rolled onwards, the darkness gave way to grayish morning light and we traveled down some more double track towards the Cedar Street bridge. Not long after we saw the owl, Jason stopped again as he noticed a commotion along the river bank. Four river otters were playing, splashing, and diving in the water. We stopped and watched a minute or two until they noticed us and stopped to watch us as well. I managed a shot with my camera and then we were off again.
<===Jason takes us on a side trip to explore old Cedar Highway and to show us a bridge that will be turned to pedestrian uses. Jason expects that this will become a highly trafficked route once it is completed in 2012 or so.
As we approached the Cedar Street bridge and crossed the river, Jason showed us the old highway and gave us a bit of history and future planning all in one concerning this abandoned stretch of roadway. We also saw a Bald Eagle in a tree as we crossed here. Then we backtracked to the causeway up to the highway bridge. Most everything underneath the bridge that is concrete is peppered with graffiti. Much of it really cool. There are some pretty talented urban artists in the Twin Cities area, that's for sure!
<=== Captain Bob getting introduced to Mike Riemer and Joe Meiser as "Miker" tells us about the coyote he saw on his way over to meet us.
As we backtracked to the bridge, Jason saw the group we were to meet up with rolling down the ramp off the approach to the bridge on our side. Captain Bob gave an excellent whistle to alert them to our presence and we all hooked up and headed eastwards down the double track to an undisclosed location in the woods where Jason, Joe Meiser, Mike Reimer and about six other guys were going to have "breakfast" in the woods.
Before we got to that point; however, the double track gave way to true single track and we found ourselves weaving and bobbing through tall weeds that were so green it seemed unreal. Someone from behind me said, "This is the "Wind Chime" part of the trail." I didn't quite understand what that meant until I got into the shoulder high thick dark green shoots of what looked to be a thickly stalked grass and heard all the spokes "tinkle-tunk" as we sped on our way through. Wind chimes indeed!
<===The group stands around and chats while Jason and Joe get coffee on the boil for us all.
After a bit more twisty single track, we pulled off to the side, dismounted and parked our rigs, while Jason and Joe pulled out their cooking gear. Others made a quick ground fire to ward off the chill of the morning, although the temperature was still in the mid-sixties. Soon coffee was being doled out, espresso, oatmeal, chocolate covered raisins, trail mix, and yes.....even Miker's hard boiled eggs with hot sauce! It was an odd breakfast, but it was really fun. Some of the group were actually riding into work at QBP. I was thinking, "Man! There is no way I'm working after a ride like this!" The thing was, we weren't even halfway done yet!
<===The ferry across Nine Mile Creek.
We eventually got everything packed up and everyone back on their bikes for more single track goodness. The trails were dry, hard, and fast with a few exceptions were the moisture was coming out of the ground and the trail was wet or greasy. There were parts where it was sandy, but for the most part, the sand was packed down really well by the volume of cyclists that traverse these trails.
I saw what appeared to me was a berm and set my front wheel in the midst of the "berm" getting ready to rail it when whumpf! I went off the bike and crashed heavily on my right side. Note to self: Sand doesn't make a great berm to rail a corner on, especially the fine river bottom sand found here!
Eventually we came to a get off where we had to hike over a small creek. Then not long after that, we crossed the ferry on Nine Mile Creek. The "ferry" is nothing more than an old floating "diving platform", not unlike what you might find in any upper Mid-West woodsy resort lake area. It is tied to some pull ropes and sits between two guide ropes, so that it doesn't float off down stream. We took turns getting across to continue our way in to Quality Bicycle Products.
Next installment: We finish the ride in, see the Salsa HQ, and begin our ride back to where we came from.
Owls And Otters: A Fargo Adventure Part II
As Jason, Captain Bob, and I headed back to the parking lot in the pre-dawn darkness I was not sure this adventure was shaping up to be a very pleasant or enduring one. Rain was starting to pelt us pretty good at one point, and my clothes were beginning to get soaked. At least the temperature was decent at a balmy, (by November standards) 64 degrees!
As we approached the parking lot, Jason saw that there was no one there so he chose to keep right on rolling to the "drop in" to the river trails. As we did, the rain lessened and by the time we found ourselves rolling on some flat double track, it had stopped completely. We could see signs of morning light shrouded by gray, hurrying cloud cover. It was about here that Jason came to a sudden halt and said, "Owl!" as he pointed upwards just in front and above his head. There was a large Owl that was staring at us in the gloom. It took flight and disappeared into the trees further into the woods. Cool!
<==Tough to see, but these are river otters poking their heads out of the water.
Then we rolled onwards, the darkness gave way to grayish morning light and we traveled down some more double track towards the Cedar Street bridge. Not long after we saw the owl, Jason stopped again as he noticed a commotion along the river bank. Four river otters were playing, splashing, and diving in the water. We stopped and watched a minute or two until they noticed us and stopped to watch us as well. I managed a shot with my camera and then we were off again.
<===The group stands around and chats while Jason and Joe get coffee on the boil for us all.
After a bit more twisty single track, we pulled off to the side, dismounted and parked our rigs, while Jason and Joe pulled out their cooking gear. Others made a quick ground fire to ward off the chill of the morning, although the temperature was still in the mid-sixties. Soon coffee was being doled out, espresso, oatmeal, chocolate covered raisins, trail mix, and yes.....even Miker's hard boiled eggs with hot sauce! It was an odd breakfast, but it was really fun. Some of the group were actually riding into work at QBP. I was thinking, "Man! There is no way I'm working after a ride like this!" The thing was, we weren't even halfway done yet!
<===The ferry across Nine Mile Creek.
We eventually got everything packed up and everyone back on their bikes for more single track goodness. The trails were dry, hard, and fast with a few exceptions were the moisture was coming out of the ground and the trail was wet or greasy. There were parts where it was sandy, but for the most part, the sand was packed down really well by the volume of cyclists that traverse these trails.
I saw what appeared to me was a berm and set my front wheel in the midst of the "berm" getting ready to rail it when whumpf! I went off the bike and crashed heavily on my right side. Note to self: Sand doesn't make a great berm to rail a corner on, especially the fine river bottom sand found here!
Eventually we came to a get off where we had to hike over a small creek. Then not long after that, we crossed the ferry on Nine Mile Creek. The "ferry" is nothing more than an old floating "diving platform", not unlike what you might find in any upper Mid-West woodsy resort lake area. It is tied to some pull ropes and sits between two guide ropes, so that it doesn't float off down stream. We took turns getting across to continue our way in to Quality Bicycle Products.
Next installment: We finish the ride in, see the Salsa HQ, and begin our ride back to where we came from.
As we approached the parking lot, Jason saw that there was no one there so he chose to keep right on rolling to the "drop in" to the river trails. As we did, the rain lessened and by the time we found ourselves rolling on some flat double track, it had stopped completely. We could see signs of morning light shrouded by gray, hurrying cloud cover. It was about here that Jason came to a sudden halt and said, "Owl!" as he pointed upwards just in front and above his head. There was a large Owl that was staring at us in the gloom. It took flight and disappeared into the trees further into the woods. Cool!
<==Tough to see, but these are river otters poking their heads out of the water.
Then we rolled onwards, the darkness gave way to grayish morning light and we traveled down some more double track towards the Cedar Street bridge. Not long after we saw the owl, Jason stopped again as he noticed a commotion along the river bank. Four river otters were playing, splashing, and diving in the water. We stopped and watched a minute or two until they noticed us and stopped to watch us as well. I managed a shot with my camera and then we were off again.
<===Jason takes us on a side trip to explore old Cedar Highway and to show us a bridge that will be turned to pedestrian uses. Jason expects that this will become a highly trafficked route once it is completed in 2012 or so.
As we approached the Cedar Street bridge and crossed the river, Jason showed us the old highway and gave us a bit of history and future planning all in one concerning this abandoned stretch of roadway. We also saw a Bald Eagle in a tree as we crossed here. Then we backtracked to the causeway up to the highway bridge. Most everything underneath the bridge that is concrete is peppered with graffiti. Much of it really cool. There are some pretty talented urban artists in the Twin Cities area, that's for sure!
<=== Captain Bob getting introduced to Mike Riemer and Joe Meiser as "Miker" tells us about the coyote he saw on his way over to meet us.
As we backtracked to the bridge, Jason saw the group we were to meet up with rolling down the ramp off the approach to the bridge on our side. Captain Bob gave an excellent whistle to alert them to our presence and we all hooked up and headed eastwards down the double track to an undisclosed location in the woods where Jason, Joe Meiser, Mike Reimer and about six other guys were going to have "breakfast" in the woods.
Before we got to that point; however, the double track gave way to true single track and we found ourselves weaving and bobbing through tall weeds that were so green it seemed unreal. Someone from behind me said, "This is the "Wind Chime" part of the trail." I didn't quite understand what that meant until I got into the shoulder high thick dark green shoots of what looked to be a thickly stalked grass and heard all the spokes "tinkle-tunk" as we sped on our way through. Wind chimes indeed!
<===The group stands around and chats while Jason and Joe get coffee on the boil for us all.
After a bit more twisty single track, we pulled off to the side, dismounted and parked our rigs, while Jason and Joe pulled out their cooking gear. Others made a quick ground fire to ward off the chill of the morning, although the temperature was still in the mid-sixties. Soon coffee was being doled out, espresso, oatmeal, chocolate covered raisins, trail mix, and yes.....even Miker's hard boiled eggs with hot sauce! It was an odd breakfast, but it was really fun. Some of the group were actually riding into work at QBP. I was thinking, "Man! There is no way I'm working after a ride like this!" The thing was, we weren't even halfway done yet!
<===The ferry across Nine Mile Creek.
We eventually got everything packed up and everyone back on their bikes for more single track goodness. The trails were dry, hard, and fast with a few exceptions were the moisture was coming out of the ground and the trail was wet or greasy. There were parts where it was sandy, but for the most part, the sand was packed down really well by the volume of cyclists that traverse these trails.
I saw what appeared to me was a berm and set my front wheel in the midst of the "berm" getting ready to rail it when whumpf! I went off the bike and crashed heavily on my right side. Note to self: Sand doesn't make a great berm to rail a corner on, especially the fine river bottom sand found here!
Eventually we came to a get off where we had to hike over a small creek. Then not long after that, we crossed the ferry on Nine Mile Creek. The "ferry" is nothing more than an old floating "diving platform", not unlike what you might find in any upper Mid-West woodsy resort lake area. It is tied to some pull ropes and sits between two guide ropes, so that it doesn't float off down stream. We took turns getting across to continue our way in to Quality Bicycle Products.
Next installment: We finish the ride in, see the Salsa HQ, and begin our ride back to where we came from.
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