Parts Bin Spec: Shame or Smart?

A nice shiny new rig with old drive train parts? Why do I feel a twinge of embarassment? Why shouldn't I just go ahead and use the parts bin spec? What has gotten ahold of me that is making me think I have to have the latest bits on this new frame, or I can not build it up?

It's sick, I tell you, just plain sick.

And we're not talking your downhilling, stunt riding kind of sick here, we're talking about a disgusting, insipid kind of mindset sick. The spirit of materialism has invaded my cranium, and I decided last night to give it an eviction notice.

You see, I was thinking just last night about when it was going to be that I would be able to ride that Haro Mary XC frame set I got a month ago. I'm thinking, "Gee, that SRAM X-9 stuff is sure nice, and I could get that new saddle I saw, and........." STOP!! Something clicked into gear right then. A sticky old pawl finally worked it's way loose again and dropped into engagement with a free wheeling ring gear. A thought took into view and I realized I was standing right on top of enough drive train parts to build several bikes. Nice parts.

Sure, they were parts that had become outdated, or "surpassed" (supposedly) by some new fangled this-or-that. These parts were still great, serviceable, light, and in some cases better than anything out there today. I ran down into the parts bin dungeon and began rummaging through stuff. Wow! I didn't even know I had this stuff! Well, I did, but I had forgotten..........or had been blinded to it. Which it was, I'm not sure, but I am going to use some of that stuff, and it may not be "cool", but it's gonna work!

Besides, I'll be riding that bike sooner than later, and what good is it to have that stuff if I am not going to use it, ya know?

So, while I'll have several new, shiny and cool bits on the bike, (mostly by the kindness of bike industry peeps. I'll let you all in on it when the bike comes together) I'll also have some "oldy but goody" stuff aboard that'll probably make you shake your head...............

...............................but I don't care!

I'm free from that spirit that haunted me, at least for now!

Update on Michelin AT XC 29"er Tire

I got the chance to run the Michelin 29"er tire in some true off road conditions Saturday and all I can say is "Wow!". It's a pretty darn good soft soil, loamy conditions, muddy conditions tire. I found the trails to be frozen again at the start of the ride, and then later it got warm enough to get the ground soft, then muddy.

At the start, I didn't feel that the hardness of the trail was an unfriendly element to these tires. We start out with some steep, off camber switch backs, going down hill. Braking control is everything here. I didn't think the Michelin was going to hang on here because of it's narrower width, but I had zero slippage. Then the trails get into a fast, swoopy downhill run. Again, stable, no issues. After that, we have some twisty, tight single track. The trail conditions were still hard yet, so the performance on hardpack in tight single track was acceptable. I wasn't attacking it at warp speed with a higher lean angle though, so I'm reserving judgement on that aspect yet.

We then hit up a steep climb to a ridgeline. By now the temps had risen enough that the softer, loamy to sandy trail conditions of this part of the trail could be tested. First of all, this tire has some claws! I crawled right up the steep section with nary a slip or quibble from the tires. The trail continues to climb up, occaisionally going around a tree, which of course has some exposed roots. No issues, but the roots were dry, so I'll have to see about that when it's wetter/ slipperier sometime. Sand wasn't a problem, but then again, I've not met a 29"er tire that couldn't at least do okay on sand.

Unfortunately, the trails to the rockier sections were blocked off this weekend, so no tests on the rocks. Maybe next time!

At any rate, my first impression of this tire is really good. I think for the spring, or any time the trails are slightly soft to mildly muddy, this tire will be the weapon of choice. When it got warm enough to really get tacky/ muddy Saturday, the Michelins did the best job I have seen yet in this area for muddy riding. We were drifting in the corners, it was so slippery! Almost as if we were riding on ice and snow. In these types of trail conditions, tires here will usually pack full of soil and become huge, heavy slicks. The Michelins would do there best to clear out the mud, flinging clods in the air all around me. The spiky knobs dug in corners, but not until after they slid around a bit. Still, controllable but at a lower speed than you usually would ride. Good stuff! In less sticky stuff, you should get even better results. Black dirt is the king of sticky soils, so I would think anywhere else should be better with this tire.

That's it for now. I'll be back with more findings on the tires later.

Update on Michelin AT XC 29"er Tire

I got the chance to run the Michelin 29"er tire in some true off road conditions Saturday and all I can say is "Wow!". It's a pretty darn good soft soil, loamy conditions, muddy conditions tire. I found the trails to be frozen again at the start of the ride, and then later it got warm enough to get the ground soft, then muddy.

At the start, I didn't feel that the hardness of the trail was an unfriendly element to these tires. We start out with some steep, off camber switch backs, going down hill. Braking control is everything here. I didn't think the Michelin was going to hang on here because of it's narrower width, but I had zero slippage. Then the trails get into a fast, swoopy downhill run. Again, stable, no issues. After that, we have some twisty, tight single track. The trail conditions were still hard yet, so the performance on hardpack in tight single track was acceptable. I wasn't attacking it at warp speed with a higher lean angle though, so I'm reserving judgement on that aspect yet.

We then hit up a steep climb to a ridgeline. By now the temps had risen enough that the softer, loamy to sandy trail conditions of this part of the trail could be tested. First of all, this tire has some claws! I crawled right up the steep section with nary a slip or quibble from the tires. The trail continues to climb up, occaisionally going around a tree, which of course has some exposed roots. No issues, but the roots were dry, so I'll have to see about that when it's wetter/ slipperier sometime. Sand wasn't a problem, but then again, I've not met a 29"er tire that couldn't at least do okay on sand.

Unfortunately, the trails to the rockier sections were blocked off this weekend, so no tests on the rocks. Maybe next time!

At any rate, my first impression of this tire is really good. I think for the spring, or any time the trails are slightly soft to mildly muddy, this tire will be the weapon of choice. When it got warm enough to really get tacky/ muddy Saturday, the Michelins did the best job I have seen yet in this area for muddy riding. We were drifting in the corners, it was so slippery! Almost as if we were riding on ice and snow. In these types of trail conditions, tires here will usually pack full of soil and become huge, heavy slicks. The Michelins would do there best to clear out the mud, flinging clods in the air all around me. The spiky knobs dug in corners, but not until after they slid around a bit. Still, controllable but at a lower speed than you usually would ride. Good stuff! In less sticky stuff, you should get even better results. Black dirt is the king of sticky soils, so I would think anywhere else should be better with this tire.

That's it for now. I'll be back with more findings on the tires later.

Yesterday and Today

Circa 1993: Klein Attitude, full Suntour XC Pro, Ritchey Vantage Comp rims, Sun Tour Grease Guard hubs, Dia Compe canti brakes,Smoke front tire, Joe Murray rear tire. Onza bar ends, Flite Ti saddle IRD seat post, Ringle' bottle cages, and skewers, and Suntour Grease Guard pedals with Christophe straps and generic plastic cages. Helmet by Shoei, (pre Troy Lee branding) Chuck Taylors in a lovely shade of purple, and Giordana bib shorts . No idea what jersey is on underneath the sweat top. That thing on my ankle is a wrestling knee pad that is protecting a 50 cent sized hole I tore into my ankle with the middle chainring. (For the locals, this is at the enterance to Seven Bridges Park)




Circa 2006: Salsa Dos Niner with SRAM X-9 drivetrain and TruVativ Stylo Team crank. DT Swiss hubs laced to Salsa Delgado Disc rims, Avid BB-7 disc calipers and Avid Speed Dial levers. WTB saddle, Salsa Shaft seat post, Rock Shox Reba fork, Salsa Relish rear damper, Michelin AT XC tires, and ancient Shimano clipless peds coutesy of Mr. 24. ( I gota get those back to ya pal!) The helmet in the pic is just for this pose, as it's the very same Shoei helmet from the first pic. I had handpainted it back in the day. The jersey is a Salsa Classico wool, tights by Trek, bibs underneath: Giordana, (but not the same as in the above pic!) Shoes: Lake, glasses by Tifosi. Location: Camp Ingawanis

My! How things have changed!

Hope you all enjoyed your weekend!

UPDATE: 12/9/12: Please read my comment in the comments section if you are coming to this post from the JusticeQuest site. Thank you. 

Yesterday and Today

Circa 1993: Klein Attitude, full Suntour XC Pro, Ritchey Vantage Comp rims, Sun Tour Grease Guard hubs, Dia Compe canti brakes,Smoke front tire, Joe Murray rear tire. Onza bar ends, Flite Ti saddle IRD seat post, Ringle' bottle cages, and skewers, and Suntour Grease Guard pedals with Christophe straps and generic plastic cages. Helmet by Shoei, (pre Troy Lee branding) Chuck Taylors in a lovely shade of purple, and Giordana bib shorts . No idea what jersey is on underneath the sweat top. That thing on my ankle is a wrestling knee pad that is protecting a 50 cent sized hole I tore into my ankle with the middle chainring. (For the locals, this is at the enterance to Seven Bridges Park)




Circa 2006: Salsa Dos Niner with SRAM X-9 drivetrain and TruVativ Stylo Team crank. DT Swiss hubs laced to Salsa Delgado Disc rims, Avid BB-7 disc calipers and Avid Speed Dial levers. WTB saddle, Salsa Shaft seat post, Rock Shox Reba fork, Salsa Relish rear damper, Michelin AT XC tires, and ancient Shimano clipless peds coutesy of Mr. 24. ( I gota get those back to ya pal!) The helmet in the pic is just for this pose, as it's the very same Shoei helmet from the first pic. I had handpainted it back in the day. The jersey is a Salsa Classico wool, tights by Trek, bibs underneath: Giordana, (but not the same as in the above pic!) Shoes: Lake, glasses by Tifosi. Location: Camp Ingawanis

My! How things have changed!

Hope you all enjoyed your weekend!

UPDATE: 12/9/12: Please read my comment in the comments section if you are coming to this post from the JusticeQuest site. Thank you. 

Saturday Dirt and Clerical Work

First the dirt! I got to put the Dos Niner through a few great dirt trails today and I had alot of fun. The softail part of the bike becomes invisible out on dirt. You don't even realize it's there, but when you don't slip out on a climb, or when you don't get jacked off the saddle on that little pot hole sized bump you didn't see, you realize something is different back there. Climbing was awesome. XC like handling on the twisties, stable 29"er wheels on the down hills, it was all alot of good times. The Michelin tires got a great work out as well. They had to handle the dry, hardpack at first, because the trails were frozen, but as the temps climbed, the trails began to un-freeze, and the mud began to creep into the equation. No sweat for the Michelins. They got a little packed up in the Iowa black dirt, but really, they handled the tacky dirt beter than I expected. The dirt was flinging off, keeping the tread blocks somewhat free to do their job and making the air around myself look pretty much like a flak field. Slipping out a bit in corners, the knobs would eventually find traction, and could be totally trusted to not dump you, within reason.

Now the paperwork! Trans Iowa roster work was done after the ride and it's a mind numbing task, but it had to be done. Mr.24 has it now, and if it passes muster, than he will post it on the site. By the way, did you check out the Special Announcement?

I should have some pictures sometime next week to share of the ride. Check back later!

Saturday Dirt and Clerical Work

First the dirt! I got to put the Dos Niner through a few great dirt trails today and I had alot of fun. The softail part of the bike becomes invisible out on dirt. You don't even realize it's there, but when you don't slip out on a climb, or when you don't get jacked off the saddle on that little pot hole sized bump you didn't see, you realize something is different back there. Climbing was awesome. XC like handling on the twisties, stable 29"er wheels on the down hills, it was all alot of good times. The Michelin tires got a great work out as well. They had to handle the dry, hardpack at first, because the trails were frozen, but as the temps climbed, the trails began to un-freeze, and the mud began to creep into the equation. No sweat for the Michelins. They got a little packed up in the Iowa black dirt, but really, they handled the tacky dirt beter than I expected. The dirt was flinging off, keeping the tread blocks somewhat free to do their job and making the air around myself look pretty much like a flak field. Slipping out a bit in corners, the knobs would eventually find traction, and could be totally trusted to not dump you, within reason.

Now the paperwork! Trans Iowa roster work was done after the ride and it's a mind numbing task, but it had to be done. Mr.24 has it now, and if it passes muster, than he will post it on the site. By the way, did you check out the Special Announcement?

I should have some pictures sometime next week to share of the ride. Check back later!

The Final Cut or T.I. Day of Reckoning

The nail biting and pacing back and forth in front of computer monitors across North America has already begun. "Am I going to be in?" "Did they get my card?" "Did they get my package with 300 cards?" (yes..............Really!) "Will they miss my Dad's cards because we have the same name?" "My brother and I both want in, will they pick us together?"

And so on, and so on.

Well, it all comes to a screeching halt this weekend. Trans Iowa will have a roster set by 2pm on Saturday. Some might be included, maybe others......."will be in the outer darkness where there will be gnashing of teeth." Will there even be a lottery? That's the biggest question right now.

That will be determined at about noon today, when I will make a special announcement on the subject. I'll probably post it via the MTBR.com Endurance forum, since doing it on Blogger Beta from work on a ten year old computer would be asking for, well.........a huge headache for one thing! That is, if I didn't crash the thing in the process. Look for the announcement on MTBR first, that's easiest for me to do right now. Noon o'clock, CST, okay?

This is going to mess up alot of lunch times, I bet!

In other goings on, I have two very important birthdays this weekend to attend to. My wife's and my daughter's. You don't miss those! That and it's my weekend to play on the git-box at church, so this Trans Iowa stuff is going to be tough to fit in. A busy weekend in anybodies book!

Okay, so let the madness of the weekend begin!

If you can ride your bike, do it! We have no excuse here. It'll be about 50 degrees today and tomorrow, which is unheard of in the Mid-West. I'll do my best to turn some pedals over myself!

Late!

The Final Cut or T.I. Day of Reckoning

The nail biting and pacing back and forth in front of computer monitors across North America has already begun. "Am I going to be in?" "Did they get my card?" "Did they get my package with 300 cards?" (yes..............Really!) "Will they miss my Dad's cards because we have the same name?" "My brother and I both want in, will they pick us together?"

And so on, and so on.

Well, it all comes to a screeching halt this weekend. Trans Iowa will have a roster set by 2pm on Saturday. Some might be included, maybe others......."will be in the outer darkness where there will be gnashing of teeth." Will there even be a lottery? That's the biggest question right now.

That will be determined at about noon today, when I will make a special announcement on the subject. I'll probably post it via the MTBR.com Endurance forum, since doing it on Blogger Beta from work on a ten year old computer would be asking for, well.........a huge headache for one thing! That is, if I didn't crash the thing in the process. Look for the announcement on MTBR first, that's easiest for me to do right now. Noon o'clock, CST, okay?

This is going to mess up alot of lunch times, I bet!

In other goings on, I have two very important birthdays this weekend to attend to. My wife's and my daughter's. You don't miss those! That and it's my weekend to play on the git-box at church, so this Trans Iowa stuff is going to be tough to fit in. A busy weekend in anybodies book!

Okay, so let the madness of the weekend begin!

If you can ride your bike, do it! We have no excuse here. It'll be about 50 degrees today and tomorrow, which is unheard of in the Mid-West. I'll do my best to turn some pedals over myself!

Late!

Michelin AT 29"er Tire

Michelin showed this 29"er tire at Interbike and it slipped under the radar, probably due to the fact that there was just soooo much new 29"er product. Well, that and the fact that unless your entry into 29 inch tires was heee-yooooge, you were not noticed.

Too bad, because this tire deserves alot of attention







Here you can see the widely spaced, squarish tread blocks. This makes the tire clear out mud probably better than any tire I have yet used. The next closest tire was ironically a Michelin in the old green Silicium compound.

The tread measures just a hair under two inches wide with the casing measuring just a hair over two inches wide. The "crown " of the casing is rounded, not flattish. The tire features side knobs, but not really aggresive ones and they certainly do not look to be at an angle for severe lean over traction. I suspect these will break away suddenly at a certain lean angle, but we shall see. The climbing traction is awesome, and they seem to grip onto trail and trail obstacles quite well.

The weight of mine was right at 660 grams, which for a true 2" wide tire isn't bad at all. They rolled exceptionally well on hard pack and pavement, which came as a surprise to me. I will be testing these in a variety of conditions over the next few months and I will report back with some findings soon.

Note: Today and tomorrow are the final days of registration for Trans Iowa. Have you gotten that card in yet? Stay tuned for a special announcement Friday evening concerning the lottery.

Michelin AT 29"er Tire

Michelin showed this 29"er tire at Interbike and it slipped under the radar, probably due to the fact that there was just soooo much new 29"er product. Well, that and the fact that unless your entry into 29 inch tires was heee-yooooge, you were not noticed.

Too bad, because this tire deserves alot of attention







Here you can see the widely spaced, squarish tread blocks. This makes the tire clear out mud probably better than any tire I have yet used. The next closest tire was ironically a Michelin in the old green Silicium compound.

The tread measures just a hair under two inches wide with the casing measuring just a hair over two inches wide. The "crown " of the casing is rounded, not flattish. The tire features side knobs, but not really aggresive ones and they certainly do not look to be at an angle for severe lean over traction. I suspect these will break away suddenly at a certain lean angle, but we shall see. The climbing traction is awesome, and they seem to grip onto trail and trail obstacles quite well.

The weight of mine was right at 660 grams, which for a true 2" wide tire isn't bad at all. They rolled exceptionally well on hard pack and pavement, which came as a surprise to me. I will be testing these in a variety of conditions over the next few months and I will report back with some findings soon.

Note: Today and tomorrow are the final days of registration for Trans Iowa. Have you gotten that card in yet? Stay tuned for a special announcement Friday evening concerning the lottery.

The Irony of the "Governing Bodies"

I usually don't say a whole lot about road cycling, professional racing, and the like on this blog channel, but lately things concerning the professional road cycling circus and off road cycling have been weighing on my mind. Today I am going to download those thoughts......

Operacion Puerto, the Pro Tour/UCI squabble, and WADA/ anti-doping crap has dominated the pro cycling news on the road side for well over a year now. If you are not familiar with what is going on there, than I suggest you not sully your fervor and joy for cycling by wading into that morass. Suffice it to say that it's a total buzzkill for that facet of the sport of cycling and they have lost one fan in myself, who can not stomach the madness anymore.

Now I see that the thing that I have predicted and feared for off road, ultra endurance cycling is now being "officially" proposed. That being a world governing body to oversee the "growth" of the sport. (Read "growth" as "shivering, cruel death of the sport")

Okay, let me get this straight. Somebody is seriously considering oversight of all of the different facets and flavors of off road ultra endurance cycling events. What.........so we can eventually have our own fiasco, like road cycling has? Umm......lemme think about this for awhile.....NOPE!! Not going there, thank you very much for wasting everyone's time!

I can't believe that in the shadow of a knock down, drag out fist fight, that has all but brought down pro road cycling to it's knees, that this proposal of enlightened guidance would be proffered. It's rediculous, to say the least. Even if it doesn't have a thing to do with the UCI or Pro Tour entities. Look at what has happened in our own country, (U.S.A.) We have the farce that is NORBA and U.S.A.Cycling. The "governing bodies" that have made participating in cycling here such an inviting proposistion that entire rogue racing series have sprung up and thrived from without their shadow of influence.

A governing body for Ultra Endurance cycling..........puh-leeze! Hey, we're having a bunch of fun, don't try ruining it all with your idea of what we are about. No thanks.

You can bet Trans Iowa will never be part of that kind of circus!

(This brought to you in part by Mr. 24 and Guitar Ted, Trans Iowa "Dictators for Life")

The Irony of the "Governing Bodies"

I usually don't say a whole lot about road cycling, professional racing, and the like on this blog channel, but lately things concerning the professional road cycling circus and off road cycling have been weighing on my mind. Today I am going to download those thoughts......

Operacion Puerto, the Pro Tour/UCI squabble, and WADA/ anti-doping crap has dominated the pro cycling news on the road side for well over a year now. If you are not familiar with what is going on there, than I suggest you not sully your fervor and joy for cycling by wading into that morass. Suffice it to say that it's a total buzzkill for that facet of the sport of cycling and they have lost one fan in myself, who can not stomach the madness anymore.

Now I see that the thing that I have predicted and feared for off road, ultra endurance cycling is now being "officially" proposed. That being a world governing body to oversee the "growth" of the sport. (Read "growth" as "shivering, cruel death of the sport")

Okay, let me get this straight. Somebody is seriously considering oversight of all of the different facets and flavors of off road ultra endurance cycling events. What.........so we can eventually have our own fiasco, like road cycling has? Umm......lemme think about this for awhile.....NOPE!! Not going there, thank you very much for wasting everyone's time!

I can't believe that in the shadow of a knock down, drag out fist fight, that has all but brought down pro road cycling to it's knees, that this proposal of enlightened guidance would be proffered. It's rediculous, to say the least. Even if it doesn't have a thing to do with the UCI or Pro Tour entities. Look at what has happened in our own country, (U.S.A.) We have the farce that is NORBA and U.S.A.Cycling. The "governing bodies" that have made participating in cycling here such an inviting proposistion that entire rogue racing series have sprung up and thrived from without their shadow of influence.

A governing body for Ultra Endurance cycling..........puh-leeze! Hey, we're having a bunch of fun, don't try ruining it all with your idea of what we are about. No thanks.

You can bet Trans Iowa will never be part of that kind of circus!

(This brought to you in part by Mr. 24 and Guitar Ted, Trans Iowa "Dictators for Life")

Dos Niner in the House

Early Christmas at the Guitar Ted Labratories? Nah, but it would seem so, as this Dos Niner is here from Salsa Cycles for a long term test. Thanks guys!

One disadvantage to the big wheels: they don't fit underneath your standard Christmas tree!








A close up of the paint and graphics. I love orange and this design is hot, hot, hot!



It's got some nice metallic sparkle there!









The thing that sets this bike off from all the others: The Relish damper unit. The Dos Niner is a soft tail design that relies on the flex of the chainstays to act as a spring and this damper unit helps keep all that "boing" under control. You can also use the damper to add additional spring stiffness to the design to the point that it is essentially "locked out" if you wanted to, but why? Seems counter intuitive since then you have what would amount to a hardtail. With that in mind, you don't need much pressure in this unit. I will be running mine at about 0 - 20 psi for this test to see how it reacts.



The other interesting thing about this frame is that it's got a Scandium enhanced aluminum alloy through out. Meaning that it's just not the three main tubes, but the whole frame that is made of the stuff. Scandium is there to allow for better strength and lighter weight by design. I'll get into that more later.

For now I just wanted to introduce ya'all to one fine looking 29"er that'll be around for awhile. I'll be keeping you all updated as to how she rides and how it works in varying types of terrain and conditions. Thanks again to Salsa Cycles for this incredible bike and the opportunity to ride it.

Dos Niner in the House

Early Christmas at the Guitar Ted Labratories? Nah, but it would seem so, as this Dos Niner is here from Salsa Cycles for a long term test. Thanks guys!

One disadvantage to the big wheels: they don't fit underneath your standard Christmas tree!








A close up of the paint and graphics. I love orange and this design is hot, hot, hot!



It's got some nice metallic sparkle there!









The thing that sets this bike off from all the others: The Relish damper unit. The Dos Niner is a soft tail design that relies on the flex of the chainstays to act as a spring and this damper unit helps keep all that "boing" under control. You can also use the damper to add additional spring stiffness to the design to the point that it is essentially "locked out" if you wanted to, but why? Seems counter intuitive since then you have what would amount to a hardtail. With that in mind, you don't need much pressure in this unit. I will be running mine at about 0 - 20 psi for this test to see how it reacts.



The other interesting thing about this frame is that it's got a Scandium enhanced aluminum alloy through out. Meaning that it's just not the three main tubes, but the whole frame that is made of the stuff. Scandium is there to allow for better strength and lighter weight by design. I'll get into that more later.

For now I just wanted to introduce ya'all to one fine looking 29"er that'll be around for awhile. I'll be keeping you all updated as to how she rides and how it works in varying types of terrain and conditions. Thanks again to Salsa Cycles for this incredible bike and the opportunity to ride it.

Post Cards Must Be In By Friday!

Okay, this is the home stretch! Your Trans Iowa chances are dwindling if you have not gotten your mail off yet. Check out the site for your registration details.

As for the possibility of a lottery, well I didn't think it was going to happen, but with the amount of new people registering on Friday and Saturday, that possibility is much more possible. As it stood on Saturday, there were 68 different names in the hat, and I know there are more coming. Now if there are 32 more individuals or not, I don't know, but it's going to be pretty close. Keep in mind that in two days we got 18 new names in the hat, so it's quite possible that folks are waiting until the last minute to get their cards off.

Don't wait too long though, we are not accepting anything past this Friday the 15th. If your mail is late, then too bad! Also, it has to be on a post card! We don't care if that card is in a huge box, an envelope, or sent regular style, but it has to be a post card. No spiral bound note book paper, no three ring binder paper entries, okay? (We actually got some of those) They are going to be rejected. Hey! All you had to do was to follow the rules people. The rules say "post card".

Okay! The suspense is building. This Friday is "D" day. It's going to get interesting!

Post Cards Must Be In By Friday!

Okay, this is the home stretch! Your Trans Iowa chances are dwindling if you have not gotten your mail off yet. Check out the site for your registration details.

As for the possibility of a lottery, well I didn't think it was going to happen, but with the amount of new people registering on Friday and Saturday, that possibility is much more possible. As it stood on Saturday, there were 68 different names in the hat, and I know there are more coming. Now if there are 32 more individuals or not, I don't know, but it's going to be pretty close. Keep in mind that in two days we got 18 new names in the hat, so it's quite possible that folks are waiting until the last minute to get their cards off.

Don't wait too long though, we are not accepting anything past this Friday the 15th. If your mail is late, then too bad! Also, it has to be on a post card! We don't care if that card is in a huge box, an envelope, or sent regular style, but it has to be a post card. No spiral bound note book paper, no three ring binder paper entries, okay? (We actually got some of those) They are going to be rejected. Hey! All you had to do was to follow the rules people. The rules say "post card".

Okay! The suspense is building. This Friday is "D" day. It's going to get interesting!

Blogger Tag?

Okay, I've heard of alot of crazy games but this is about at the top o the list: Blog Tag. Yep! Apparently it goes something like this: You get a "tag" on somebodies post, then you are supposed to post six "interesting" things about yourself. After you do this, you "tag" other known bloggers in the universe and expect them to undergo the same goofy procedure you did.

Amazing!

Anyway, I got "tagged" here, so I'm supposed to comply, or.......... Funny, but they never did say what might happen if I don't play, did they? Hmmm.............well, just for the fun of it, I'll post six "interesting" things about myself and see what happens. Okay?

#1. Guitar Ted: Yeah, that's probably the #1 question I get asked: "Where did this "Guitar Ted" thing come from" Well, it's a long story about heart ache and the loss of God and all, but it has something to do with Ted Nugent and my love of guitar playing. If you really want to know, I think my very first blog post tells the story. Now....off to the archives with you!

#2. And about that guitar playing....: Yes, I do indeed play guitar. I own several, and I also already posted about that. Now....off to the archives with you!

#3. Trans Iowa: Yep, you guessed it! Now, off to the archives with you!

#4. Okay smarty pants! What about something we don't know!: Okay, okay! I'll try to play nice! How about this: I used to design and make jewelery for a living for ten years. I repaired jewelery, set stones, and graded diamonds. Yep! I even wore $500.00 suits everyday and wore out at least two of them a year, since I practically lived in the things. Laundry services, shoes, ties, etc.....it all cost me alot of $$$. And you guys thought cycling was expensive?.......psshaww!

#5. You? In a suit and tie?: Yeah, hard to believe, isn't it? I went from that right into being a bicycle mechanic until the shop I worked at went under, and then I spent five and a half years working for The Darkside as a car mechanic! Greasy, grimy, gritty, and generally unpleasant, I still am thankfull for the owner and the guys I worked along side of. They were great! But I am glad that part of my life is behind me now!

#6. And now you're back in a bike shop?: Yep! And lovin' it, for the most part. While the pay for a mechanic stinks and the work hours get cut in the off season, I still love working in a bike shop. Sure, I could make more money doing something else tomorrow, if I wanted to, but for right now, this is a good thing. Who knows? Maybe I'll be doing something else a year from now. Besides, I love bicycles and being around that, so a shop is a good place to be, right?

Okay, so there you have it. Six mildly interesting....or inane, depending on your viewpoint...things about me. But enough about me. What about you?

Consider yourself tagged!

Blogger Tag?

Okay, I've heard of alot of crazy games but this is about at the top o the list: Blog Tag. Yep! Apparently it goes something like this: You get a "tag" on somebodies post, then you are supposed to post six "interesting" things about yourself. After you do this, you "tag" other known bloggers in the universe and expect them to undergo the same goofy procedure you did.

Amazing!

Anyway, I got "tagged" here, so I'm supposed to comply, or.......... Funny, but they never did say what might happen if I don't play, did they? Hmmm.............well, just for the fun of it, I'll post six "interesting" things about myself and see what happens. Okay?

#1. Guitar Ted: Yeah, that's probably the #1 question I get asked: "Where did this "Guitar Ted" thing come from" Well, it's a long story about heart ache and the loss of God and all, but it has something to do with Ted Nugent and my love of guitar playing. If you really want to know, I think my very first blog post tells the story. Now....off to the archives with you!

#2. And about that guitar playing....: Yes, I do indeed play guitar. I own several, and I also already posted about that. Now....off to the archives with you!

#3. Trans Iowa: Yep, you guessed it! Now, off to the archives with you!

#4. Okay smarty pants! What about something we don't know!: Okay, okay! I'll try to play nice! How about this: I used to design and make jewelery for a living for ten years. I repaired jewelery, set stones, and graded diamonds. Yep! I even wore $500.00 suits everyday and wore out at least two of them a year, since I practically lived in the things. Laundry services, shoes, ties, etc.....it all cost me alot of $$$. And you guys thought cycling was expensive?.......psshaww!

#5. You? In a suit and tie?: Yeah, hard to believe, isn't it? I went from that right into being a bicycle mechanic until the shop I worked at went under, and then I spent five and a half years working for The Darkside as a car mechanic! Greasy, grimy, gritty, and generally unpleasant, I still am thankfull for the owner and the guys I worked along side of. They were great! But I am glad that part of my life is behind me now!

#6. And now you're back in a bike shop?: Yep! And lovin' it, for the most part. While the pay for a mechanic stinks and the work hours get cut in the off season, I still love working in a bike shop. Sure, I could make more money doing something else tomorrow, if I wanted to, but for right now, this is a good thing. Who knows? Maybe I'll be doing something else a year from now. Besides, I love bicycles and being around that, so a shop is a good place to be, right?

Okay, so there you have it. Six mildly interesting....or inane, depending on your viewpoint...things about me. But enough about me. What about you?

Consider yourself tagged!

More Trans Iowa Recon

Today was more gravel road driving checking out the Version 3 course. This time I did something really different and brought along the family. I figured that we need practice being couped up in a car for hours since we have a big vacation planned for next year. You know,......typical guy thinking. Killing two birds with one stone, ya know? That sort of thing.

Well, all I can say is, we need more practice time! As for the course, it's looking really great. I traveled 3.5 miles of "B" Level maintenance road today that is the most awesome "B" road stuff we have ever used. Quite hilly terrain actually. It's going to probably be in the night time section of the event, so it should be even more epic than ever.

The gravel is, for the most part, all recently maintained and the roads were pretty much covered with chunky gravel. Lots of dust too, so hacked throats and scratchy eyes might be a problem if the weather is at all dry. It's pretty windy today, as well, so I got a feel for what that might bring to the event. One thing is for sure, if it rains a bunch, we'll most likely be good, with the exception of the "B" stuff, but even that should be better, and there is going to be far less of it in this edition than there was last year. Don't get your hopes up, I replaced all that "B" stuff with something perhaps even worse! You'll see!

No pictures today, my cameras batteries went down while I was out there. Perhaps a couple of shots might turn up later. Besides, I wouldn't want anyone to figure out where we are going, ya know?

More updates later, stay tuned!

More Trans Iowa Recon

Today was more gravel road driving checking out the Version 3 course. This time I did something really different and brought along the family. I figured that we need practice being couped up in a car for hours since we have a big vacation planned for next year. You know,......typical guy thinking. Killing two birds with one stone, ya know? That sort of thing.

Well, all I can say is, we need more practice time! As for the course, it's looking really great. I traveled 3.5 miles of "B" Level maintenance road today that is the most awesome "B" road stuff we have ever used. Quite hilly terrain actually. It's going to probably be in the night time section of the event, so it should be even more epic than ever.

The gravel is, for the most part, all recently maintained and the roads were pretty much covered with chunky gravel. Lots of dust too, so hacked throats and scratchy eyes might be a problem if the weather is at all dry. It's pretty windy today, as well, so I got a feel for what that might bring to the event. One thing is for sure, if it rains a bunch, we'll most likely be good, with the exception of the "B" stuff, but even that should be better, and there is going to be far less of it in this edition than there was last year. Don't get your hopes up, I replaced all that "B" stuff with something perhaps even worse! You'll see!

No pictures today, my cameras batteries went down while I was out there. Perhaps a couple of shots might turn up later. Besides, I wouldn't want anyone to figure out where we are going, ya know?

More updates later, stay tuned!

It's All About Momentum

Many times when discussing the benefits of going with the 29 inch wheel format we talk about the differences in wheel weight, where that weight is or isn't, and acceleration. One of the things not discussed is the decelleration or loss of momentum that smaller and/or lighter wheels have.

I am aware of a study that Mavic had done concerning climbing speeds and wheel weight. The hypothesis going into the study was that a lighter wheelset would climb at a consistently higher speed than a heavier wheelset and thus would cut overall climbing times. What they actually observed was something very surprising.

The study was done on a long mountain climb on a paved road using road tires on road bikes. The test pool was a large group of cyclotourists numbering into the hundreds. (Some of these details are cloudy in my memory, but the overall point is not) At any rate, Mavic officials saw that overall speeds were not increasing as they had expected they would. What they did see was that the extremely light wheels caused the riders to lose their momentum between pedal strokes! The riders basically were having to re-accelerate the wheel with every downward push on the pedals, while the riders on the heavier wheels were able to escape this plague because their wheels held their momentum through the cyclists pedaling "dead spots". In the final results, the heavier wheelsets, (to a point) were actually faster than the lighter weight ones!

Now I see that this phenomenon has been observed again by cyclingnews.com testers concerning a lightweight set of Fulcrum carbon clinchers. Here is the pertinent paragraph:

"On the flipside, I did notice that these wheels exhibited less of a flywheel effect. Once spun up, slightly more effort was required to keep them spinning, unlike heavier wheels, whose rotational inertia tends to keep them going. An extension of this phenomenon was that the RacingLights were a little flighty on fast (60+km/h) descents, especially if the road surface was rough. This was not a nice feeling the first time I experienced it - it reminded me of skateboard death wobbles. Heavier wheels do provide more stability through the gyroscopic effect. Speaking of descending, the modestly aero spokes were also faster than I expected - noticeable faster than my conventionally spoked low profile clinchers. "

So, as you can see, having momentum, or a "flywheel effect" is not a bad thing, necessarily, and if you know your wheels have this effect, then you can use it to your advantage. This is one of the nice things about 29 inch wheels. Yes, they may be a bit harder to spin off a dead, or nearly dead start, but once up to speed, they tend to keep that speed. Couple that with the higher degree of traction and stability over 26 inch wheels and you might find that you are braking less and getting through the corners faster which will carry more momentum and save you more energy. This is also the reason why 29"ers tend to "walk away" from 26"ers on downhills.

It's all about the momentum. Get yer self some!

It's All About Momentum

Many times when discussing the benefits of going with the 29 inch wheel format we talk about the differences in wheel weight, where that weight is or isn't, and acceleration. One of the things not discussed is the decelleration or loss of momentum that smaller and/or lighter wheels have.

I am aware of a study that Mavic had done concerning climbing speeds and wheel weight. The hypothesis going into the study was that a lighter wheelset would climb at a consistently higher speed than a heavier wheelset and thus would cut overall climbing times. What they actually observed was something very surprising.

The study was done on a long mountain climb on a paved road using road tires on road bikes. The test pool was a large group of cyclotourists numbering into the hundreds. (Some of these details are cloudy in my memory, but the overall point is not) At any rate, Mavic officials saw that overall speeds were not increasing as they had expected they would. What they did see was that the extremely light wheels caused the riders to lose their momentum between pedal strokes! The riders basically were having to re-accelerate the wheel with every downward push on the pedals, while the riders on the heavier wheels were able to escape this plague because their wheels held their momentum through the cyclists pedaling "dead spots". In the final results, the heavier wheelsets, (to a point) were actually faster than the lighter weight ones!

Now I see that this phenomenon has been observed again by cyclingnews.com testers concerning a lightweight set of Fulcrum carbon clinchers. Here is the pertinent paragraph:

"On the flipside, I did notice that these wheels exhibited less of a flywheel effect. Once spun up, slightly more effort was required to keep them spinning, unlike heavier wheels, whose rotational inertia tends to keep them going. An extension of this phenomenon was that the RacingLights were a little flighty on fast (60+km/h) descents, especially if the road surface was rough. This was not a nice feeling the first time I experienced it - it reminded me of skateboard death wobbles. Heavier wheels do provide more stability through the gyroscopic effect. Speaking of descending, the modestly aero spokes were also faster than I expected - noticeable faster than my conventionally spoked low profile clinchers. "

So, as you can see, having momentum, or a "flywheel effect" is not a bad thing, necessarily, and if you know your wheels have this effect, then you can use it to your advantage. This is one of the nice things about 29 inch wheels. Yes, they may be a bit harder to spin off a dead, or nearly dead start, but once up to speed, they tend to keep that speed. Couple that with the higher degree of traction and stability over 26 inch wheels and you might find that you are braking less and getting through the corners faster which will carry more momentum and save you more energy. This is also the reason why 29"ers tend to "walk away" from 26"ers on downhills.

It's all about the momentum. Get yer self some!

Reasons For "The Rule"

As I sit to post up this it is 3 degrees Fahrenheit outside. That's -16 Centigrade for you Canadians, and by the way, the windchill is -27C. I am a commuter, but I have common sense too. Here is my rule for commuting by bike. Keep in mind it's my rule. You can do what you want.

When the ambient air temperature is above zero and there is little to no wind chill, I ride. If the ambient air temperature is below 10 degrees and there is a significant wind chill, then I'm driving.

Why? Because I'm stupid, but not that stupid. I own a car. I do not have to ride. If it's dangerous to ride, then I don't. I am looking at riding well into my elderly years and cutting that short by being the "tough guy" and riding when it's 3 degrees outside with a stiff 15-20 mph. head wind is not going to further that cause.

I suppose I could get outfitted with all that specialty cold weather gear that folks use in the Artic to cycle with but honestly, I would use it so little that it wouldn't make sense to me to have it. This doesn't happen a whole lot: I might miss a handfull of commutes a year because of it, so it's no big deal to me.

Besides, my body can use the break now and then. It's good to rest. I think Mr.24 may have stole this quote somewhere, but I attribute it to him: "Rest as hard as you train." Makes sense to me! (By the way, Mr. 24 got himself a new squadra for '07. Did ya see?)

Then again, my wife is a Registered Nurse, so she is quite familiar with the effects of wind chill on the human body. She also wants me around in good health for herself and to help raise our two kids. Women can be that way, if ya know what I mean, and it's probably a good thing for me.

I suppose that's the real reason I'm not going to ride to work today...........

........and I'm good with that!

Reasons For "The Rule"

As I sit to post up this it is 3 degrees Fahrenheit outside. That's -16 Centigrade for you Canadians, and by the way, the windchill is -27C. I am a commuter, but I have common sense too. Here is my rule for commuting by bike. Keep in mind it's my rule. You can do what you want.

When the ambient air temperature is above zero and there is little to no wind chill, I ride. If the ambient air temperature is below 10 degrees and there is a significant wind chill, then I'm driving.

Why? Because I'm stupid, but not that stupid. I own a car. I do not have to ride. If it's dangerous to ride, then I don't. I am looking at riding well into my elderly years and cutting that short by being the "tough guy" and riding when it's 3 degrees outside with a stiff 15-20 mph. head wind is not going to further that cause.

I suppose I could get outfitted with all that specialty cold weather gear that folks use in the Artic to cycle with but honestly, I would use it so little that it wouldn't make sense to me to have it. This doesn't happen a whole lot: I might miss a handfull of commutes a year because of it, so it's no big deal to me.

Besides, my body can use the break now and then. It's good to rest. I think Mr.24 may have stole this quote somewhere, but I attribute it to him: "Rest as hard as you train." Makes sense to me! (By the way, Mr. 24 got himself a new squadra for '07. Did ya see?)

Then again, my wife is a Registered Nurse, so she is quite familiar with the effects of wind chill on the human body. She also wants me around in good health for herself and to help raise our two kids. Women can be that way, if ya know what I mean, and it's probably a good thing for me.

I suppose that's the real reason I'm not going to ride to work today...........

........and I'm good with that!

Wednesday News and Views

Did I ever mention that I got to ride this bike off road and that it rules!

Look for this frame to become available next spring and then watch it become one of the top XC 29"er hardtails of '07.

Yes......it's that good!

I just completed a review on the F-29 Cannondale Caffeine hardtail for Twenty Nine Inches which details my thoughts on that hardtail 29"er. Go read the review. I will only say here that it is a very different hardtail than most that I have had the pleasure to ride and it's definitely not a "me too" design. It's got a very different personality which may or may not appeal to you. I think it's a smart decision on Cannondales part because it definitely sets their bike apart from the "crowd", if you can call the geared only 29"er hardtail market a crowd.

The post card idea for entry to Trans Iowa is really a blast! (I like getting mail, by the way) The amount of effort and thought going into some of these cards is getting some play on mtbr.com's Endurance Forum. Check it out. Can anybody top Dr. Gary Cale's card? I don't know......it's the front runner right now! (By the way, check out the "advertisement" on his blog. Hilarious!)

Speaking of the subject of Dr. Gary Cale's advertisement, I noticed that the long distance running Dallas Sigurdur has mentioned that a certain somebody might be along for the ride if he makes the roster for Trans Iowa V3. veddy een-tahresteenk! (Don't forget! The cutoff for post card mail ins to get in the lottery drawing for T.I.V3 is December 15th!)

Mr. 24 leaves again on a jet plane today for sunny Southern California. His mission is a secret.......for now! I suspect there will be a "big announcement" coming soon and that his current status in life will forever be changed. Lookin' forward to see what happens and hoping for good things! We'll see come this weekend, I'm thinking!

The Twenty Nine Inches 29"er Festival idea is set for June 23rd and 24th, (I do not have an '07 calendar to verify that, but I believe that's a Saturday-Sunday date) At any rate, things are moving along quite well concerning the event. It looks as though we'll have some major demo bike action from the likes of Fisher, Salsa, Raleigh, the Badger Dorothy (or two!), and a as yet un-named new 29"er manufacturer that will be showing some proto-types. We will be raffling off chances to win a Raleigh 29"er and some other goodies, so stay tuned!

Okay, that's all for today folks! Back to work!

Wednesday News and Views

Did I ever mention that I got to ride this bike off road and that it rules!

Look for this frame to become available next spring and then watch it become one of the top XC 29"er hardtails of '07.

Yes......it's that good!

I just completed a review on the F-29 Cannondale Caffeine hardtail for Twenty Nine Inches which details my thoughts on that hardtail 29"er. Go read the review. I will only say here that it is a very different hardtail than most that I have had the pleasure to ride and it's definitely not a "me too" design. It's got a very different personality which may or may not appeal to you. I think it's a smart decision on Cannondales part because it definitely sets their bike apart from the "crowd", if you can call the geared only 29"er hardtail market a crowd.

The post card idea for entry to Trans Iowa is really a blast! (I like getting mail, by the way) The amount of effort and thought going into some of these cards is getting some play on mtbr.com's Endurance Forum. Check it out. Can anybody top Dr. Gary Cale's card? I don't know......it's the front runner right now! (By the way, check out the "advertisement" on his blog. Hilarious!)

Speaking of the subject of Dr. Gary Cale's advertisement, I noticed that the long distance running Dallas Sigurdur has mentioned that a certain somebody might be along for the ride if he makes the roster for Trans Iowa V3. veddy een-tahresteenk! (Don't forget! The cutoff for post card mail ins to get in the lottery drawing for T.I.V3 is December 15th!)

Mr. 24 leaves again on a jet plane today for sunny Southern California. His mission is a secret.......for now! I suspect there will be a "big announcement" coming soon and that his current status in life will forever be changed. Lookin' forward to see what happens and hoping for good things! We'll see come this weekend, I'm thinking!

The Twenty Nine Inches 29"er Festival idea is set for June 23rd and 24th, (I do not have an '07 calendar to verify that, but I believe that's a Saturday-Sunday date) At any rate, things are moving along quite well concerning the event. It looks as though we'll have some major demo bike action from the likes of Fisher, Salsa, Raleigh, the Badger Dorothy (or two!), and a as yet un-named new 29"er manufacturer that will be showing some proto-types. We will be raffling off chances to win a Raleigh 29"er and some other goodies, so stay tuned!

Okay, that's all for today folks! Back to work!

Single Speeding For Novices?

I see that Blue Collar MTB has an interesting article up about single speeding and how it should be a prerequisite for novice trail riders. Seeing as how I am a contributor to the sister of Blue Collar, Twenty Nine Inches, I figured that I'd keep my comments here, so as not to hog up a bunch of commentary space there. I tend to go on and on sometimes, ya know?

I'm seeing two sides to this story, and I haven't quite decided which side to take.........yet, but I think this is the result of a bigger, more complex situation. If you notice what Tim Grahl reports about his conversation with Brad Quartuccio of Dirt Rag, you'll notice that the idea stems from the thought that you would get a better quality single speed at a sub $500.00 price than you would a geared mtb at that price point. So, what is this really saying here?

Are we inferring that mountain bikes at the entry level are too expensive and not high enough quality? Does a higher quality rig, single speed or geared, result in a better off road experience for the beggining off roader? Does any of this really matter at all?

I think all of those are fair questions. My gut reaction is, it really doesn't matter how good your bike is. Or isn't, for that matter. What kind of bandwidth could we fill here with all the stories of begginer mtb'ers or "regular joe" types that were/are cleaning up on folks with mega dollar rigs and more experience on junk equipment? You've all heard the stories before.

So, if it wasn't the equipment, what was it? Skilz my friend, it was da skilz! With the right amount of talent/teaching/practice, you too could be riding at an elevated level compared to most. Yes, even on a mart bike, if need be. While a better bike may enhance the chances of you reaching a higher level or have a better experience, it doesn't guarantee it. No my friend, you can't buy yourself into a great set of off roading skills, ya gots ta earn 'em the good ol' fashioned way.

Now having said all of that, I would agree that perhaps a simpler drivetrain, a rigid platform with super fatty tires, and 29 inch wheels would make the perfect begginer off road machine. Why? Well, it's like Gary Fisher explained to me once. The big wheels "..buy you grace...", the simpler drive train is easier to shift and maintain, (I'd suggest a 1 X 7, or 1 X 8 for longevity and ease of use), and the lack of suspension simplifies things further while enhancing the chances for real trail skills to develope. Sure, a single speed drivetrain might even be better from a simplicity/ ease of use standpoint, but as Tim duly notes in his Blue collar piece, how many folks would get frustrated at having to walk huge sections of single track just because they were relegated to one gear?

So, in the final analysis, I'd say single speeding is best left to us knuckleheads that have a screw or two loose. You know who you are!

Single Speeding For Novices?

I see that Blue Collar MTB has an interesting article up about single speeding and how it should be a prerequisite for novice trail riders. Seeing as how I am a contributor to the sister of Blue Collar, Twenty Nine Inches, I figured that I'd keep my comments here, so as not to hog up a bunch of commentary space there. I tend to go on and on sometimes, ya know?

I'm seeing two sides to this story, and I haven't quite decided which side to take.........yet, but I think this is the result of a bigger, more complex situation. If you notice what Tim Grahl reports about his conversation with Brad Quartuccio of Dirt Rag, you'll notice that the idea stems from the thought that you would get a better quality single speed at a sub $500.00 price than you would a geared mtb at that price point. So, what is this really saying here?

Are we inferring that mountain bikes at the entry level are too expensive and not high enough quality? Does a higher quality rig, single speed or geared, result in a better off road experience for the beggining off roader? Does any of this really matter at all?

I think all of those are fair questions. My gut reaction is, it really doesn't matter how good your bike is. Or isn't, for that matter. What kind of bandwidth could we fill here with all the stories of begginer mtb'ers or "regular joe" types that were/are cleaning up on folks with mega dollar rigs and more experience on junk equipment? You've all heard the stories before.

So, if it wasn't the equipment, what was it? Skilz my friend, it was da skilz! With the right amount of talent/teaching/practice, you too could be riding at an elevated level compared to most. Yes, even on a mart bike, if need be. While a better bike may enhance the chances of you reaching a higher level or have a better experience, it doesn't guarantee it. No my friend, you can't buy yourself into a great set of off roading skills, ya gots ta earn 'em the good ol' fashioned way.

Now having said all of that, I would agree that perhaps a simpler drivetrain, a rigid platform with super fatty tires, and 29 inch wheels would make the perfect begginer off road machine. Why? Well, it's like Gary Fisher explained to me once. The big wheels "..buy you grace...", the simpler drive train is easier to shift and maintain, (I'd suggest a 1 X 7, or 1 X 8 for longevity and ease of use), and the lack of suspension simplifies things further while enhancing the chances for real trail skills to develope. Sure, a single speed drivetrain might even be better from a simplicity/ ease of use standpoint, but as Tim duly notes in his Blue collar piece, how many folks would get frustrated at having to walk huge sections of single track just because they were relegated to one gear?

So, in the final analysis, I'd say single speeding is best left to us knuckleheads that have a screw or two loose. You know who you are!

Gravel Grinding: The Bikes

A Bit More Gravel Love: I had a couple more thoughts on the different aspects of gravel road riding that I wanted to share, so I thought perhaps I would just go ahead and do that now since the last couple of days have been about that subject.

The bikes that people ride on these long gravel rides are all over the place, design-wise. I've seen everything from full on road bikes to full suspended mountain bikes. Anything that has two wheels can and has been pressed into service, but here are my recommendations for what is best. This is going to work for long gravel rides. Like three plus hours.

My first choice would be a fat tired bike out fitted with 1.8 - 2.1 inch wide tires. Fully rigid, with maybe a suspended seatpost or perhaps a soft tail design for comfort on super long rides. Why? Because gravel roads can have a variety of surfaces, textures, and sometimes, no gravel at all! (In which case you might find yourself on an infamous "B" level maintenance road!) During the Dirty Kanza 200, I encountered everything from embedded bedrock, fist sized cobble stone like sections of rock, huge, chunky flint, all the way down to "moon dust" like powder. Even a 75 yard section of deep sand! And that was in the first 90 miles. (Since I didn't get any further than that! Next year....next year!) I wouldn't bother with a suspended front fork. Just extra weight for a minimal benefit. Fat tires at reasonable pressures will do just as good a job.

Gears or not. Pick yer poison there folks. It's all good out on the gravel, although I might add that gravel does a wonderful job of chewing up drivetrain equipment at an accelerated pace. Be advised!

Some folks might argue that a cross bike is better suited to this task. I'd have to disagree there. For short rides, you can get away with it, but on longer rides the twitchy geometry, thinner tires, and seated position will all take their toll. Check out the stories from the first Trans Iowa. Sure, some guys finished well on cross bikes. They also complained of physical ailments well beyond the time of the finish. As in days beyond........weeks even. Numbness and tingling. No thanks! I'll sacrifice a bit of speed to have the comfort and the ability to ride again in a weeks time. Or in ten years time. Ya know, maybe it's got something to do with getting older, but I just do not see any wisdom in winnning an event and being physically destroyed for weeks afterwards with after effects that could last a lifetime. Just me, I guess.........

And finally, of course you would expect that I would say a 29"er is taylor made for such a task, but well.........it is! Better roll out, better angle of attack on bumps, and the generally higher handle bar posistion of most 29"ers lends itself to making a perfect gravel grinder. You'll just have to try one!

That's about it for the bike aspect of gravel grinding. Look for a couple more "gravel love" posts in the future.

Gravel Grinding: The Bikes

A Bit More Gravel Love: I had a couple more thoughts on the different aspects of gravel road riding that I wanted to share, so I thought perhaps I would just go ahead and do that now since the last couple of days have been about that subject.

The bikes that people ride on these long gravel rides are all over the place, design-wise. I've seen everything from full on road bikes to full suspended mountain bikes. Anything that has two wheels can and has been pressed into service, but here are my recommendations for what is best. This is going to work for long gravel rides. Like three plus hours.

My first choice would be a fat tired bike out fitted with 1.8 - 2.1 inch wide tires. Fully rigid, with maybe a suspended seatpost or perhaps a soft tail design for comfort on super long rides. Why? Because gravel roads can have a variety of surfaces, textures, and sometimes, no gravel at all! (In which case you might find yourself on an infamous "B" level maintenance road!) During the Dirty Kanza 200, I encountered everything from embedded bedrock, fist sized cobble stone like sections of rock, huge, chunky flint, all the way down to "moon dust" like powder. Even a 75 yard section of deep sand! And that was in the first 90 miles. (Since I didn't get any further than that! Next year....next year!) I wouldn't bother with a suspended front fork. Just extra weight for a minimal benefit. Fat tires at reasonable pressures will do just as good a job.

Gears or not. Pick yer poison there folks. It's all good out on the gravel, although I might add that gravel does a wonderful job of chewing up drivetrain equipment at an accelerated pace. Be advised!

Some folks might argue that a cross bike is better suited to this task. I'd have to disagree there. For short rides, you can get away with it, but on longer rides the twitchy geometry, thinner tires, and seated position will all take their toll. Check out the stories from the first Trans Iowa. Sure, some guys finished well on cross bikes. They also complained of physical ailments well beyond the time of the finish. As in days beyond........weeks even. Numbness and tingling. No thanks! I'll sacrifice a bit of speed to have the comfort and the ability to ride again in a weeks time. Or in ten years time. Ya know, maybe it's got something to do with getting older, but I just do not see any wisdom in winnning an event and being physically destroyed for weeks afterwards with after effects that could last a lifetime. Just me, I guess.........

And finally, of course you would expect that I would say a 29"er is taylor made for such a task, but well.........it is! Better roll out, better angle of attack on bumps, and the generally higher handle bar posistion of most 29"ers lends itself to making a perfect gravel grinder. You'll just have to try one!

That's about it for the bike aspect of gravel grinding. Look for a couple more "gravel love" posts in the future.

T.I. Clones and Booze

When you lead a sheltered existence like I have, only being aware of the local scene, you think you and yer buddies are the only ones insane enough to actually ride gravel roads. I mean, like really.......who else does this crap? Well, I get involved in Trans Iowa, and I find out that alot of folks like it. They like it so much, they actually copy the idea, and have their own events.

The first one I was aware of was the little ride down in Kansas that I ended up going to. The Dirty Kanza 200 wasn't the only one though. I was getting e-mails from Pennsylvania, Florida, and other parts of the nation from guys asking me how I helped do this. Then Endurosnob decided to get in on the action. Now I see Paddy is talking Canadian backroad goodness. Silly wabbits!

Now I'm finding out about all kinds of gravel rides. Rides in Nebraska, rides in Colorado, rides in North East Iowa, training rides, fun rides, and all sorts of gravel grinding goofiness. I guess you could say we all have rocks in our heads. Whatever it is, I like it. I like gravel rides and somehow knowing that a bunch of other folks partake also is kinda.......well, I don't know........ I guess I have some like minded brothers and sisters out there, and I find that to be a good thing.

So, now we come upon a new year and another Trans Iowa is in the works. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I am amazed by the support we get for this gravel grinder. This year, it's the booze. That surprised me, honestly, but in a way, why did it take until year 3 to have it happen? (I guess last years T.I. was partially sponsored by Paddy/Guinness and Stranahan's, since both were flowing freely in the park at Algona: yes, that includes Paddy!) This year we have not only the Stranahan's, but we have an Iowa product just hitting the market again after years of under the radar distribution. That and our first alcohol fueled preems, ( check out the site), that should make the event interesting. Not that the event participants will be drinking......booze, that is..........they'll be racin' for it. Kinda different. Well, this whole event is kinda different, so I guess it fits!

Gravel grinding and booze. Sounds like an enticing mix to me. All I can say is no matter how many stories that you read, ( and there will be stories, mind you), it won't compare to being there.

I'd mark my calendar for April 28th-29th if I were you! See ya there!

T.I. Clones and Booze

When you lead a sheltered existence like I have, only being aware of the local scene, you think you and yer buddies are the only ones insane enough to actually ride gravel roads. I mean, like really.......who else does this crap? Well, I get involved in Trans Iowa, and I find out that alot of folks like it. They like it so much, they actually copy the idea, and have their own events.

The first one I was aware of was the little ride down in Kansas that I ended up going to. The Dirty Kanza 200 wasn't the only one though. I was getting e-mails from Pennsylvania, Florida, and other parts of the nation from guys asking me how I helped do this. Then Endurosnob decided to get in on the action. Now I see Paddy is talking Canadian backroad goodness. Silly wabbits!

Now I'm finding out about all kinds of gravel rides. Rides in Nebraska, rides in Colorado, rides in North East Iowa, training rides, fun rides, and all sorts of gravel grinding goofiness. I guess you could say we all have rocks in our heads. Whatever it is, I like it. I like gravel rides and somehow knowing that a bunch of other folks partake also is kinda.......well, I don't know........ I guess I have some like minded brothers and sisters out there, and I find that to be a good thing.

So, now we come upon a new year and another Trans Iowa is in the works. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, I am amazed by the support we get for this gravel grinder. This year, it's the booze. That surprised me, honestly, but in a way, why did it take until year 3 to have it happen? (I guess last years T.I. was partially sponsored by Paddy/Guinness and Stranahan's, since both were flowing freely in the park at Algona: yes, that includes Paddy!) This year we have not only the Stranahan's, but we have an Iowa product just hitting the market again after years of under the radar distribution. That and our first alcohol fueled preems, ( check out the site), that should make the event interesting. Not that the event participants will be drinking......booze, that is..........they'll be racin' for it. Kinda different. Well, this whole event is kinda different, so I guess it fits!

Gravel grinding and booze. Sounds like an enticing mix to me. All I can say is no matter how many stories that you read, ( and there will be stories, mind you), it won't compare to being there.

I'd mark my calendar for April 28th-29th if I were you! See ya there!

Trans Iowa Update

I think that I will periodacally post my thoughts on Trans Iowa up here on weekends for a bit, since that's what will be keeping me somewhat busy around here for awhile. Here's the latest hoo-hah concerning T.I.V3.............

Post Card Entries: This has been a stroke of pure genius! Why we didn't think of this before, I don't know, but Jeff and I have been getting a huge kick out of this since the first cards started rolling in last Monday.

I've got to hand it to you guys, (and one gal.....so far!), you are a pretty creative bunch! The handmade cards are amongst my favorites. They range from photographs, to handmade cards of very artistic nature, to cards with Trans Iowa themes. I am thinking that these might have to be displayed somehow at the awards banquet, or on-line in a gallery. Maybe both. Really.........some of these cards are pretty cool!

Then we have the "not for public viewing" cards, which some have amazed me from the sheer fact that they made it through the Post Office! Yikes!

One last point about the post cards. You can get them here by any means that you want, but they have to be postcards, they have to have the four required bits of info on each card, and they have to arrive at Europa Cycle and Ski no later than December 15th. By "post card" I mean the size and shape has to be regulation size. You can send it in a 5' X 5' box if you like, but it has to be "post card" sized to be acceptable. Okay?

Cue Sheets: We will be employing the tried and true model for layout, direction, and distribution of the cue sheets. Yes, that means the sheets will be split into a "first half" and "second half", which you must earn the right to receive by completing the first half of the course. Just like in past Trans Iowas. There won't be a "check-in" per se', but you will have to stop to pick up the second set of cues to be able to continue.

The Course: There have been some questions, ( as there have been every year we've done this) as to what the course will be. Other than to say that the course will begin and end in Decorah, we aren't saying. If you get on the roster, and if you actually show up on the 27th of April, you will get the first half of the course on the cue sheets. There will be no map laying out the route for all to see. There will be no list of pass through towns or any hint as to where you are going until you start out on the route in the wee hours of April 28th. (Unless you decide to map out the route during the night instead of sleeping!)

That said, the overall length of the course will be approximately 320 miles. I'll have more on the length and breakdown of the first half length versus second half length later.

Time Limits: Just as in past Trans Iowas, there will be time limitations. You will be required to cover approximately ten miles in every hour to reach the pick up point for your second set of cue sheets and to finish out the event. The event will begin at 4am. on Saturday, April 28th and end at approximately 3pm. on Sunday. (the ending time will be determined by the actual course length.) I'll have more specifics on the times in a later post.

Trans Iowa Update

I think that I will periodacally post my thoughts on Trans Iowa up here on weekends for a bit, since that's what will be keeping me somewhat busy around here for awhile. Here's the latest hoo-hah concerning T.I.V3.............

Post Card Entries: This has been a stroke of pure genius! Why we didn't think of this before, I don't know, but Jeff and I have been getting a huge kick out of this since the first cards started rolling in last Monday.

I've got to hand it to you guys, (and one gal.....so far!), you are a pretty creative bunch! The handmade cards are amongst my favorites. They range from photographs, to handmade cards of very artistic nature, to cards with Trans Iowa themes. I am thinking that these might have to be displayed somehow at the awards banquet, or on-line in a gallery. Maybe both. Really.........some of these cards are pretty cool!

Then we have the "not for public viewing" cards, which some have amazed me from the sheer fact that they made it through the Post Office! Yikes!

One last point about the post cards. You can get them here by any means that you want, but they have to be postcards, they have to have the four required bits of info on each card, and they have to arrive at Europa Cycle and Ski no later than December 15th. By "post card" I mean the size and shape has to be regulation size. You can send it in a 5' X 5' box if you like, but it has to be "post card" sized to be acceptable. Okay?

Cue Sheets: We will be employing the tried and true model for layout, direction, and distribution of the cue sheets. Yes, that means the sheets will be split into a "first half" and "second half", which you must earn the right to receive by completing the first half of the course. Just like in past Trans Iowas. There won't be a "check-in" per se', but you will have to stop to pick up the second set of cues to be able to continue.

The Course: There have been some questions, ( as there have been every year we've done this) as to what the course will be. Other than to say that the course will begin and end in Decorah, we aren't saying. If you get on the roster, and if you actually show up on the 27th of April, you will get the first half of the course on the cue sheets. There will be no map laying out the route for all to see. There will be no list of pass through towns or any hint as to where you are going until you start out on the route in the wee hours of April 28th. (Unless you decide to map out the route during the night instead of sleeping!)

That said, the overall length of the course will be approximately 320 miles. I'll have more on the length and breakdown of the first half length versus second half length later.

Time Limits: Just as in past Trans Iowas, there will be time limitations. You will be required to cover approximately ten miles in every hour to reach the pick up point for your second set of cue sheets and to finish out the event. The event will begin at 4am. on Saturday, April 28th and end at approximately 3pm. on Sunday. (the ending time will be determined by the actual course length.) I'll have more specifics on the times in a later post.

Trek 69er: A Case of White Elephant?

Back in August, I wrote a post on my reaction to the Trek "69er" that was introduced at the Trek dealer show. Needless to say, I thought then, and still do, that Trek made a huge mistake by not offering a full on 29"er, or at least a single speed more befitting the culture of single speed and the heritage of Trek and Bontrager. By forging ahead with the "69er" concept, I feel that Trek has unnecessarily limited their appeal in the marketplace and additionally made things hard on themselves with the original $1700.00 price point.

Original? Yep! They changed the price. To a whopping $2399.99!! For a single speed mountain bike? Wow! I think somebody at Trek needs to maybe re-think this model a bit. I mean, I could buy two Carver single speed 69ers for that price. What does the Trek model have that Carver doesn't? Besides a long wait time for availability, that is.

I'm thinking white elephant here folks. A seriously huge, ginormous, stinking white elephant. I'm not even going to touch upon how goofy the whole 69"er thing is. This project is crazy enough from a whole list of other angles. I still can not get over that price hike. That's the nail in the coffin for me!

Once more, I say that Trek is absolutely looney for not making a steel hard tail Single Track series 29"er, or at least a 26"er single speed. That's Trek's heritage, that's Trek's calling card, that's single speed culture. Not this "beer can" technology, bling-bling, half and half, overpriced exercise in futility called a "69er". Somebody pull this embarassment outta the catalog....please! No offense to Travis Brown, who digs on this concept, but this isn't the way to do it, and especially not for that much scratch.

Rant mode off! Now for some Trans Iowa V3 news! I am proud to announce three new sponsors to the event. Twin Six, the cycling clothing alternative, The 12 Hours of Blue Mound, and Paddy's Preem, a preem for a case of Guiness to the first competitor to reach the first town out on T.I. this year. Thanks everyone! Remember, registration ends December 15th! Get those Post cards in NOW! At the rate they are coming in, we will have well beyond 2000 post cards in the lottery. Thanks to those who have already entered!

And finally.....I am in the process of working out the details on a 29"er Meet Up ride. More details to come!

Be careful if you are riding outside! Dress accordingly and take care! But ride your bike, definitely ride!

Trek 69er: A Case of White Elephant?

Back in August, I wrote a post on my reaction to the Trek "69er" that was introduced at the Trek dealer show. Needless to say, I thought then, and still do, that Trek made a huge mistake by not offering a full on 29"er, or at least a single speed more befitting the culture of single speed and the heritage of Trek and Bontrager. By forging ahead with the "69er" concept, I feel that Trek has unnecessarily limited their appeal in the marketplace and additionally made things hard on themselves with the original $1700.00 price point.

Original? Yep! They changed the price. To a whopping $2399.99!! For a single speed mountain bike? Wow! I think somebody at Trek needs to maybe re-think this model a bit. I mean, I could buy two Carver single speed 69ers for that price. What does the Trek model have that Carver doesn't? Besides a long wait time for availability, that is.

I'm thinking white elephant here folks. A seriously huge, ginormous, stinking white elephant. I'm not even going to touch upon how goofy the whole 69"er thing is. This project is crazy enough from a whole list of other angles. I still can not get over that price hike. That's the nail in the coffin for me!

Once more, I say that Trek is absolutely looney for not making a steel hard tail Single Track series 29"er, or at least a 26"er single speed. That's Trek's heritage, that's Trek's calling card, that's single speed culture. Not this "beer can" technology, bling-bling, half and half, overpriced exercise in futility called a "69er". Somebody pull this embarassment outta the catalog....please! No offense to Travis Brown, who digs on this concept, but this isn't the way to do it, and especially not for that much scratch.

Rant mode off! Now for some Trans Iowa V3 news! I am proud to announce three new sponsors to the event. Twin Six, the cycling clothing alternative, The 12 Hours of Blue Mound, and Paddy's Preem, a preem for a case of Guiness to the first competitor to reach the first town out on T.I. this year. Thanks everyone! Remember, registration ends December 15th! Get those Post cards in NOW! At the rate they are coming in, we will have well beyond 2000 post cards in the lottery. Thanks to those who have already entered!

And finally.....I am in the process of working out the details on a 29"er Meet Up ride. More details to come!

Be careful if you are riding outside! Dress accordingly and take care! But ride your bike, definitely ride!