Big Wheels Of A Different Sort

"The Other Bike" Update: Okay, first off, I came up with a new name for the Mukluk snow/fat bike project. It has its roots in classic rock, so see if you can guess where the name came from. Here it is: "The Snow Dog".

Okay, no prizes will be awarded, but it'll be fun to see if anyone gets this one. (No fair Googling! Use yer own gray matter!)

Now on with the hardware pictured here. I needed a front hub to go along with the rear I had. Welcome to another rear hub! (You are wondering something now. I can feel it!) Yes, another rear hub folks. You see, fat bikes nowadays use 135 O.L.D. dimension hubs for their front ends. These make for stronger wheel builds by allowing for a symmetrical wheel. No dishing for a front disc. So, that being the mountain bike standard for rear hub spacing, you get yourself a rear hub for a front hub on a fat bike. So, the smaller hub to the right is actually a rear mountain bike single speed hub and that is dwarfed by the ginormous 170 O.L.D. rear fat bike hub. Both spin on super-smooth Phil Wood bearings and are carved from aluminum and polished up like jewelry. These will make a nice looking and long lasting fat bike wheel set for The Snow Dog.

The Phil Hubs will be laced with Sapim spokes to the Rolling Darryl rims that I have, and a surprise rim strip provided by Ben Witt will be the crowning touch to these spectacular wheels. (Thanks for the perfect selection, Ben!)

Here I am after riding home on the freshly snow covered streets from work yesterday. Hopefully I will  be doing such exploits on The Snow Dog soon. I just need this one small, insignificant bit to complete the project. Nothing big.


Just a Mukluk frame and fork is all!

ha! Well, hopefully it won't be all that long from now. We still have a fair bit of winter left to go now and I am sure that when "it" gets here I will have it together in no time.

I sure hope that it will get done before Frostbike. I'd love to drag it up to Northfield and do some trail riding up there and then hit up the show, with maybe an after ride on some of the Twin Cities stuff. We'll see.

The Changing Landscape

In the world of the internet, all sorts of wild, wacky stuff has been going on, and likely will into the foreseeable future. Wiki-leaks, Facebook, internet stalking, and what have you. One of the more interesting things the "Information Highway" has brought us is knowledge of source manufacturers for our toys that we play with. In this case, it is carbon mountain bike frames.

I first came across this when I started going to Interbike again. In the Asian Pavillion, the companies from the far East were displaying their wares trying to attract companies wanting branded components. I spied a familiar looking carbon fiber and aluminum 29"er fork in one of the booths. Upon closer inspection, it was found to be the "mother fork" to about a half dozen companies 29"er forks.

It was explained to me later that these companies simply specialize in some technique or facet of bicycle production, and then hawk their services to any bicycle company willing to work with them. Nothing wrong with any of the above, really. The thing was, it used to all happen behind closed doors. Not anymore.

Now let's take the case of the two carbon fiber frames I have posted here today. One is from a new start up in Switzerland, one is from an e-mail sent to a consumer direct from the Chinese manufacturer. Are they the same frame? Well, there is plenty of evidence that suggests that the two frames, while maybe not identical, are very, very similar. Too close for comfort, really. But the price? There is a grand difference between the asking prices for these frames. That's not chump change.

The thing is, you can contact Chinese companies that are advertising directly into the U.S. and buy frames, and complete bikes, direct. By-passing the normal economy. It's a product of the internet age, and it is going to change the landscape as far as how business is done at many levels.

What will happen is anybodies guess, but it is fascinating to watch it all play out. Obviously the consumer that is looking for value and the businessman/entrepreneur is at odds in this game and changes are on the wind. I'm betting sooner than later.

The Changing Landscape

In the world of the internet, all sorts of wild, wacky stuff has been going on, and likely will into the foreseeable future. Wiki-leaks, Facebook, internet stalking, and what have you. One of the more interesting things the "Information Highway" has brought us is knowledge of source manufacturers for our toys that we play with. In this case, it is carbon mountain bike frames.

I first came across this when I started going to Interbike again. In the Asian Pavillion, the companies from the far East were displaying their wares trying to attract companies wanting branded components. I spied a familiar looking carbon fiber and aluminum 29"er fork in one of the booths. Upon closer inspection, it was found to be the "mother fork" to about a half dozen companies 29"er forks.

It was explained to me later that these companies simply specialize in some technique or facet of bicycle production, and then hawk their services to any bicycle company willing to work with them. Nothing wrong with any of the above, really. The thing was, it used to all happen behind closed doors. Not anymore.

Now let's take the case of the two carbon fiber frames I have posted here today. One is from a new start up in Switzerland, one is from an e-mail sent to a consumer direct from the Chinese manufacturer. Are they the same frame? Well, there is plenty of evidence that suggests that the two frames, while maybe not identical, are very, very similar. Too close for comfort, really. But the price? There is a grand difference between the asking prices for these frames. That's not chump change.

The thing is, you can contact Chinese companies that are advertising directly into the U.S. and buy frames, and complete bikes, direct. By-passing the normal economy. It's a product of the internet age, and it is going to change the landscape as far as how business is done at many levels.

What will happen is anybodies guess, but it is fascinating to watch it all play out. Obviously the consumer that is looking for value and the businessman/entrepreneur is at odds in this game and changes are on the wind. I'm betting sooner than later.

Trans Iowa V7 Update #10: Gravel Road Riding Tips

Gravel Road Riding Tips For Trans Iowa: Once again, this is aimed at the first timers out there, but ya'all might want to pay attention, since there might be some things I mention here which will help bring to mind stuff you may have forgotten about.

The last update, #9 on equipment choices, can be found here.

Please read and familiarize yourself with the Race Safety & Supplies section of the Trans Iowa site here.

I mention a few things there that are in keeping with my post here, so I will not cover those again. Here you will find some basic gravel road riding tips I have learned over the years and also things I have observed by putting on six previous Trans Iowas and from my other gravel road racing and riding experiences.

#1: Ride "Right": Just because you are in a remote, rural area, and just because there is little to no traffic doesn't mean you can relax on your road etiquette here. Ride on the right side of the road folks, especially going up a hill! Rural Iowans will expect that when they crest a hill in their automobile, that they will be on the right side, and so would anybody else coming the other way be on their right side of the road, thus preventing any accidental crashes at the summits of hills. That's how it works, so don't forget that, and don't try to push your luck out there. It could cost you your life.

#2: Don't Be A Hero: Trans Iowa is a long, long event. It isn't worth it to blow through stop signs, not pay attention at intersections, and to not wait for cars and trucks to clear out when crossing paved roads. Obey traffic signs! Stop at paved crossings and be very careful. Don't be a dick when going through towns and tick off the locals with your "get out of my way" attitude.

NOTE: If d.p. or I, or any of our volunteers report or see a T.I.V7 rider violating #1 or #2 above, you will be disqualified immediately and asked to stop riding. I won't tolerate riders being stupid, ignorant, or willfully breaking laws or rules of conduct. Period. 

#3: "Read" The Road: It is important that you recognize the difference between loose gravel, and smoother sections of the road. Obviously, you'll want to take the path of least resistance, but I am thinking of the fast down hill sections. The ability to look further up the road and "read" the conditions of the gravel will allow you to descend with more confidence and safety. This will become imperative at night. Don't outrun your lights, and ride within your skill level. That said, reading the road will be a handy tool during Trans Iowa. Getting out and practicing this on gravel ahead of T.I.V7 would be the best bet.

#4: Take Corners Very Carefully: Generally speaking, bicycle tires and speedy gravel corners are not things that go together without mishap. Be careful going around corners and you'll be fine. Criterium style cornering will be met with a case of severe road rash!

#5: Easy On The Brakes!: Similarly, heavy, sudden braking is a no-no on gravel and a recipe for going down. Gently squeezing the levers and giving yourself plenty of room to make a stop is advised. Keep drafting distances longer, unless you can implicitly trust the riders you draft off of. If one guy or gal in a draft line makes a small bobble or slips on loose gravel, you will find yourself in a big pile up. Also, keep a light touch on the brakes while descending at speed. Too much brake and you can easily lose control and stack it up heinously. (And it doesn't take much brake to be "too much" on gravel!) Don't draft on the down hills! Especially steep ones. (Getting a gravel chunk in the eye, or a face full of dust or mud is a distinct possibility)

#6: B Road Roolz: B Maintenance roads present their own set of rules. First and foremost is deciding whether to even ride in at all! If it is wet, your best bet may be to dismount while you are still on the gravel and test the road by walking on it. You'll know within a few footsteps if you could ride it out, or not. Better to have clagged up shoes than a mud packed, 70lb bike that you have to carry!

If the B Road has a ditch, you may be allowed to pass in the grass, but if it's like the one I have pictured here, you'll be obliged to walk the entire length of it. Trust me. You shouldn't try riding on a rain soaked B Road! If it is dry, you can pass, or maybe if the sun has gotten to it after a rain, you may find parts will be rideable, but it is best to err on the side of caution here. Added to this is the fact that road obstacles like embedded rocks, holes, ruts, and even random junk are waiting to toss you off your bike or ruin your tires and wheels, and it should become apparent that B Roads deserve your respect.

Next Update: More Gravel Road Riding Tips....

Trans Iowa V7 Update #10: Gravel Road Riding Tips

Gravel Road Riding Tips For Trans Iowa: Once again, this is aimed at the first timers out there, but ya'all might want to pay attention, since there might be some things I mention here which will help bring to mind stuff you may have forgotten about.

The last update, #9 on equipment choices, can be found here.

Please read and familiarize yourself with the Race Safety & Supplies section of the Trans Iowa site here.

I mention a few things there that are in keeping with my post here, so I will not cover those again. Here you will find some basic gravel road riding tips I have learned over the years and also things I have observed by putting on six previous Trans Iowas and from my other gravel road racing and riding experiences.

#1: Ride "Right": Just because you are in a remote, rural area, and just because there is little to no traffic doesn't mean you can relax on your road etiquette here. Ride on the right side of the road folks, especially going up a hill! Rural Iowans will expect that when they crest a hill in their automobile, that they will be on the right side, and so would anybody else coming the other way be on their right side of the road, thus preventing any accidental crashes at the summits of hills. That's how it works, so don't forget that, and don't try to push your luck out there. It could cost you your life.

#2: Don't Be A Hero: Trans Iowa is a long, long event. It isn't worth it to blow through stop signs, not pay attention at intersections, and to not wait for cars and trucks to clear out when crossing paved roads. Obey traffic signs! Stop at paved crossings and be very careful. Don't be a dick when going through towns and tick off the locals with your "get out of my way" attitude.

NOTE: If d.p. or I, or any of our volunteers report or see a T.I.V7 rider violating #1 or #2 above, you will be disqualified immediately and asked to stop riding. I won't tolerate riders being stupid, ignorant, or willfully breaking laws or rules of conduct. Period. 

#3: "Read" The Road: It is important that you recognize the difference between loose gravel, and smoother sections of the road. Obviously, you'll want to take the path of least resistance, but I am thinking of the fast down hill sections. The ability to look further up the road and "read" the conditions of the gravel will allow you to descend with more confidence and safety. This will become imperative at night. Don't outrun your lights, and ride within your skill level. That said, reading the road will be a handy tool during Trans Iowa. Getting out and practicing this on gravel ahead of T.I.V7 would be the best bet.

#4: Take Corners Very Carefully: Generally speaking, bicycle tires and speedy gravel corners are not things that go together without mishap. Be careful going around corners and you'll be fine. Criterium style cornering will be met with a case of severe road rash!

#5: Easy On The Brakes!: Similarly, heavy, sudden braking is a no-no on gravel and a recipe for going down. Gently squeezing the levers and giving yourself plenty of room to make a stop is advised. Keep drafting distances longer, unless you can implicitly trust the riders you draft off of. If one guy or gal in a draft line makes a small bobble or slips on loose gravel, you will find yourself in a big pile up. Also, keep a light touch on the brakes while descending at speed. Too much brake and you can easily lose control and stack it up heinously. (And it doesn't take much brake to be "too much" on gravel!) Don't draft on the down hills! Especially steep ones. (Getting a gravel chunk in the eye, or a face full of dust or mud is a distinct possibility)

#6: B Road Roolz: B Maintenance roads present their own set of rules. First and foremost is deciding whether to even ride in at all! If it is wet, your best bet may be to dismount while you are still on the gravel and test the road by walking on it. You'll know within a few footsteps if you could ride it out, or not. Better to have clagged up shoes than a mud packed, 70lb bike that you have to carry!

If the B Road has a ditch, you may be allowed to pass in the grass, but if it's like the one I have pictured here, you'll be obliged to walk the entire length of it. Trust me. You shouldn't try riding on a rain soaked B Road! If it is dry, you can pass, or maybe if the sun has gotten to it after a rain, you may find parts will be rideable, but it is best to err on the side of caution here. Added to this is the fact that road obstacles like embedded rocks, holes, ruts, and even random junk are waiting to toss you off your bike or ruin your tires and wheels, and it should become apparent that B Roads deserve your respect.

Next Update: More Gravel Road Riding Tips....

Updates

One Step On The way To The Gravel Concept Bike: Since the idea for the Gravel Concept Bike has been largely decided, I have been thinking about an interim rig to "get by" with for awhile and to test the waters on some of the ideas for that ultimate gravel road warrior.

So, I've had a look at the Fisher collection cyclo-cross rigs. They have several bits I like about the geometry, and are pretty basic looking with a single speed option. Thursday I got up close and personal with an Erwin, in my size, since the shop I work at received one for stock which I built up. There are quite a few interesting things about the Erwin, and the Fisher Collection steel cyclo-cross bikes in general that I liked, and a few things I didn't like.

Overall, the bike is pretty dang cool, and for the most part, I could probably live with this on its own merits. The geometry is decent, with exception of the bottom bracket drop, of course, since it is a cyclo-cross rig. That BB height is noticeable too. I really felt like I was sitting up in the air on this rig, and it only had 32mm tires on it! Bigger tires would jack it up even higher. Not my cup-o-tea, but there are several things that I did think were cool, and speaking of bigger tires, that's one of them. in fact, I am certain XR-1's would shim into this frame. That's a 29"er tire folks! The clearances on this frame are enormous. The head angle is slack enough, and the bike in a 58cm fit really well. They moved the cable hangar for the front brake to the fork to reduce front brake flutter, and it has the hidden fender mounts that Fisher Collection road bikes have. Rack mounts too. The sliding drops mean single speeding this is a no-brainer.

I don't really care for Tiagra shifters and components though, and for the price of the Erwin, it seems a bit cheap on the drive train spec. ($1500.00MSRP) The wheels are "meh", and so is the crank set. I do like the Presidio's SRAM spec, but that is the next step up and even more money for the same frame and fork otherwise.

Ideally I would get the Presidio and when the custom bike was done, I'd swap over most of the geared stuff to it and single speed the frame on the Presidio, (or Erwin), and keep it, most likely, as my SS gravel rig. We'll see.

And In The "Other Bike" News: I got a voice mail message from Ben Witt yesterday, (Thank you sir!) saying that everything for the Mukluk is in but the frame. I suspect that by next week then I'll be getting my wheels built and will be anxiously awaiting my frame and fork.

Maybe, just maybe I'll have it in time for Frostbike. And maybe, just maybe- if everything falls into place, Marty and Ben will have their fat bikes and we can all goof off on fat bike at Mike's Bikes in Northfield. (hint-hint), or do some other dastardly fat biking around that area. Hmmm.........

Well, it is rather cold out this weekend, but if you can, go outside and do something fun. Have a good one folks!

Updates

One Step On The way To The Gravel Concept Bike: Since the idea for the Gravel Concept Bike has been largely decided, I have been thinking about an interim rig to "get by" with for awhile and to test the waters on some of the ideas for that ultimate gravel road warrior.

So, I've had a look at the Fisher collection cyclo-cross rigs. They have several bits I like about the geometry, and are pretty basic looking with a single speed option. Thursday I got up close and personal with an Erwin, in my size, since the shop I work at received one for stock which I built up. There are quite a few interesting things about the Erwin, and the Fisher Collection steel cyclo-cross bikes in general that I liked, and a few things I didn't like.

Overall, the bike is pretty dang cool, and for the most part, I could probably live with this on its own merits. The geometry is decent, with exception of the bottom bracket drop, of course, since it is a cyclo-cross rig. That BB height is noticeable too. I really felt like I was sitting up in the air on this rig, and it only had 32mm tires on it! Bigger tires would jack it up even higher. Not my cup-o-tea, but there are several things that I did think were cool, and speaking of bigger tires, that's one of them. in fact, I am certain XR-1's would shim into this frame. That's a 29"er tire folks! The clearances on this frame are enormous. The head angle is slack enough, and the bike in a 58cm fit really well. They moved the cable hangar for the front brake to the fork to reduce front brake flutter, and it has the hidden fender mounts that Fisher Collection road bikes have. Rack mounts too. The sliding drops mean single speeding this is a no-brainer.

I don't really care for Tiagra shifters and components though, and for the price of the Erwin, it seems a bit cheap on the drive train spec. ($1500.00MSRP) The wheels are "meh", and so is the crank set. I do like the Presidio's SRAM spec, but that is the next step up and even more money for the same frame and fork otherwise.

Ideally I would get the Presidio and when the custom bike was done, I'd swap over most of the geared stuff to it and single speed the frame on the Presidio, (or Erwin), and keep it, most likely, as my SS gravel rig. We'll see.

And In The "Other Bike" News: I got a voice mail message from Ben Witt yesterday, (Thank you sir!) saying that everything for the Mukluk is in but the frame. I suspect that by next week then I'll be getting my wheels built and will be anxiously awaiting my frame and fork.

Maybe, just maybe I'll have it in time for Frostbike. And maybe, just maybe- if everything falls into place, Marty and Ben will have their fat bikes and we can all goof off on fat bike at Mike's Bikes in Northfield. (hint-hint), or do some other dastardly fat biking around that area. Hmmm.........

Well, it is rather cold out this weekend, but if you can, go outside and do something fun. Have a good one folks!

Upgrades

Six years Is What In Computer Age? Like "dog years", a six year old CPU is really more like what? 50 years old? 100 years old? I'm not a computer guy, but I think it probably is something like that. To give you an idea of what I'm driving at here, I've had this computer longer than I've blogged! Yep! Something like six or seven years going now.

Well, things kept getting wonkier and wonkier with regards to how things have been, (or more correctly- have not been), working. So, after my photo editor upchucked yesterday, I threw down for a new CPU. I picked it up already, but the actual install won't happen for a few days now. You shouldn't notice anything, except maybe that I'll be less grumpy because things are going faster on my end!

Speaking of Photo Editors.... I had to do something temporary to get by with regards to editing photos. Before this, I only did the very basic tasks of white balance and re-sizing. I didn't want to delve into......all that other schtuff! Well, the new download had some things that you could play with easily, and they were non-destructive, and well.......yeah. I spent most of the day doofing around with photos. It is pretty fun, and believe me- I am a total rank amateur, late to the party, don't bother looking at my photos photographer. (If I could even dare call myself a photographer! Apologies to all the"real" photogs that might be reading this.) So....after all of that, here are some examples of my experimentations. I have absolutely zero clue as to what it is I am doing, so I am probably breaking every cardinal rule of photography there is. Anywho....

Green Belt Lake, Waterloo, Iowa

Random Birdhouse In The Woods

And just to keep it on track here- A shot of the head tube junction on the Fisher Collection Sawyer.

A Quick Note On The Sawyer: Okay, this is a bike you either love or hate. Cruiser style bikes either take you to "that certain place", or leave you scratching your head wondering, "Why?" I happen to like the style myself, and with just one look at the Sawyer, I said, "Oh yeah!" They nailed the lines on that thing.

See, to my mind, you can make a cruiser inspired mtb easily enough, but it is quite another thing to get the lines "just so", and the proportions of those curving tubes in relationship to each other "just right". Many try, not too many succeed in getting it "right". Curtis Inglis of Retrotec gets it. The Mountain Goat FKR is right on, (and since Ingliss makes them, it's no wonder!). Coconino Cycles Steve Garro does a cruiser justice. Hunter Cycles gets it right. The old OX Brand cruiser is cool. The old Cooks Brothers cruiser was spot on. Don McClung and Tony Pereira do a similar, masterful style of cruiser.

That's the list folks. Gary Fisher Collection's Sawyer is in some stellar company here, because to my mind, it is possibly the best looking of all of these, and certainly the best production cruiser mtb ever produced in mass quantities. Yes- I said best ever. That's in looks only, but after a few rides I can tell you there is some substance to this bike. It ain't all looks!

That's it for now on that. Look for more "arty" images here now though. I'm afraid I've been sucked in deeper!

Upgrades

Six years Is What In Computer Age? Like "dog years", a six year old CPU is really more like what? 50 years old? 100 years old? I'm not a computer guy, but I think it probably is something like that. To give you an idea of what I'm driving at here, I've had this computer longer than I've blogged! Yep! Something like six or seven years going now.

Well, things kept getting wonkier and wonkier with regards to how things have been, (or more correctly- have not been), working. So, after my photo editor upchucked yesterday, I threw down for a new CPU. I picked it up already, but the actual install won't happen for a few days now. You shouldn't notice anything, except maybe that I'll be less grumpy because things are going faster on my end!

Speaking of Photo Editors.... I had to do something temporary to get by with regards to editing photos. Before this, I only did the very basic tasks of white balance and re-sizing. I didn't want to delve into......all that other schtuff! Well, the new download had some things that you could play with easily, and they were non-destructive, and well.......yeah. I spent most of the day doofing around with photos. It is pretty fun, and believe me- I am a total rank amateur, late to the party, don't bother looking at my photos photographer. (If I could even dare call myself a photographer! Apologies to all the"real" photogs that might be reading this.) So....after all of that, here are some examples of my experimentations. I have absolutely zero clue as to what it is I am doing, so I am probably breaking every cardinal rule of photography there is. Anywho....

Green Belt Lake, Waterloo, Iowa

Random Birdhouse In The Woods

And just to keep it on track here- A shot of the head tube junction on the Fisher Collection Sawyer.

A Quick Note On The Sawyer: Okay, this is a bike you either love or hate. Cruiser style bikes either take you to "that certain place", or leave you scratching your head wondering, "Why?" I happen to like the style myself, and with just one look at the Sawyer, I said, "Oh yeah!" They nailed the lines on that thing.

See, to my mind, you can make a cruiser inspired mtb easily enough, but it is quite another thing to get the lines "just so", and the proportions of those curving tubes in relationship to each other "just right". Many try, not too many succeed in getting it "right". Curtis Inglis of Retrotec gets it. The Mountain Goat FKR is right on, (and since Ingliss makes them, it's no wonder!). Coconino Cycles Steve Garro does a cruiser justice. Hunter Cycles gets it right. The old OX Brand cruiser is cool. The old Cooks Brothers cruiser was spot on. Don McClung and Tony Pereira do a similar, masterful style of cruiser.

That's the list folks. Gary Fisher Collection's Sawyer is in some stellar company here, because to my mind, it is possibly the best looking of all of these, and certainly the best production cruiser mtb ever produced in mass quantities. Yes- I said best ever. That's in looks only, but after a few rides I can tell you there is some substance to this bike. It ain't all looks!

That's it for now on that. Look for more "arty" images here now though. I'm afraid I've been sucked in deeper!

My Commuting Tricks: Part II

Yesterday I thought I'd start off sharing some ideas from my commuting experiences and today I would like to expand a bit upon that.

A couple of things that will help you get going and keep going are what is on the agenda for today.

More On Your Bike Choice: Commuting can be hard on a bike, so I don't like to use the "best" bike equipped with the "best" stuff that I have. Not that you can't, but if you commit to commuting, you will be putting your spendy bits through a wear cycle that will be a bit advanced in comparison to what you might normally do to a bike/parts like that. Replacement costs to upkeep your steed need to be thought about. Commuting by definition means a bicycle that is reliable every day. You don't want the worst bits hanging from your frame, but you also may not want the very best either. Something to think about. Me? I use a single speed because it is dead reliable, resists fouling from the elements, and wears a lot longer than a derailleured bike.

More On Your Route: One of the things I noticed, and a topic that came out of yesterday's post, was that of familiarity. What I mean is that if you use the same route, at the same time, everyday, you will notice patterns in things, if you pay attention. The way traffic lights work, (or don't), is one thing. You might find that some are rotating through signals at a steady rate. Others may not be triggered until a car comes up to the intersection. Some lights may be odd and random. I have all three types on my route. (I'll get into more specifics on this later). Other things you might notice are commuters in cars that you see every day. Busses, trucks, or pedestrians. It will be a good idea to make eye contact with these folks at a minimum. A wave and a smile can pay dividends later. Why? Because folks will notice you, #1, and then they will get familiar with you. Less cars, trucks, busses, and pedestrians to get ticked off at you. In fact, some of them may even start looking out for you!

More On Clothing: Layers folks. Layers! Many thin layers will keep you warmer on the cold days of commuting. I like to do a "base layer". It doesn't have to be an "actual base layer" from a sporting goods store, but those are certainly viable. Silk undershirt are pretty good, but a cotton t-shirt will do for a short-ish commute of ten miles or less in most cases. Next, I like something wool. Thin wool shirts, wool jerseys, or wool sweaters, if they are not too heavy, will do just fine. Then I like a wind breaker, rain jacket, or some outerwear that resists the wind. Good to go! But you should experiment, and again, you don't have to use cycling specific stuff. Make it easy!

More commuting tips coming soon......

My Commuting Tricks: Part II

Yesterday I thought I'd start off sharing some ideas from my commuting experiences and today I would like to expand a bit upon that.

A couple of things that will help you get going and keep going are what is on the agenda for today.

More On Your Bike Choice: Commuting can be hard on a bike, so I don't like to use the "best" bike equipped with the "best" stuff that I have. Not that you can't, but if you commit to commuting, you will be putting your spendy bits through a wear cycle that will be a bit advanced in comparison to what you might normally do to a bike/parts like that. Replacement costs to upkeep your steed need to be thought about. Commuting by definition means a bicycle that is reliable every day. You don't want the worst bits hanging from your frame, but you also may not want the very best either. Something to think about. Me? I use a single speed because it is dead reliable, resists fouling from the elements, and wears a lot longer than a derailleured bike.

More On Your Route: One of the things I noticed, and a topic that came out of yesterday's post, was that of familiarity. What I mean is that if you use the same route, at the same time, everyday, you will notice patterns in things, if you pay attention. The way traffic lights work, (or don't), is one thing. You might find that some are rotating through signals at a steady rate. Others may not be triggered until a car comes up to the intersection. Some lights may be odd and random. I have all three types on my route. (I'll get into more specifics on this later). Other things you might notice are commuters in cars that you see every day. Busses, trucks, or pedestrians. It will be a good idea to make eye contact with these folks at a minimum. A wave and a smile can pay dividends later. Why? Because folks will notice you, #1, and then they will get familiar with you. Less cars, trucks, busses, and pedestrians to get ticked off at you. In fact, some of them may even start looking out for you!

More On Clothing: Layers folks. Layers! Many thin layers will keep you warmer on the cold days of commuting. I like to do a "base layer". It doesn't have to be an "actual base layer" from a sporting goods store, but those are certainly viable. Silk undershirt are pretty good, but a cotton t-shirt will do for a short-ish commute of ten miles or less in most cases. Next, I like something wool. Thin wool shirts, wool jerseys, or wool sweaters, if they are not too heavy, will do just fine. Then I like a wind breaker, rain jacket, or some outerwear that resists the wind. Good to go! But you should experiment, and again, you don't have to use cycling specific stuff. Make it easy!

More commuting tips coming soon......

Well...Lookee Here!

The best lookin' cruiser inspired mtb ever? I think so. It landed here today. I'll be posting more on this over at Twenty Nine Inches later, but if you are in the local vicinity, and want a peek, let me know. I'd be glad to show this one to you.

Too bad things are so frozen over. I did actually hit some trail with this today. The snow sounded like Styrofoam! That scrunching-ripping sound was really loud! Anyway......stay tuned for more soon!

Well...Lookee Here!

The best lookin' cruiser inspired mtb ever? I think so. It landed here today. I'll be posting more on this over at Twenty Nine Inches later, but if you are in the local vicinity, and want a peek, let me know. I'd be glad to show this one to you.

Too bad things are so frozen over. I did actually hit some trail with this today. The snow sounded like Styrofoam! That scrunching-ripping sound was really loud! Anyway......stay tuned for more soon!

My Commuting Tricks

<===Trick #1: Curb-hoppable bikes like this Fargo help tremendously with being "tricky" on your commutes.

After I did the "A Paved Battlefield" series (Part I, Part II, and Part III), I got to thinking about all the little things I learned over the years on my commute. Things I do that make my life a little easier with reference to being around cars, and with regards to making my route a safer, funner one.

I call them "tricks", like one might refer to "tricks of the trade'. These are my specific tricks for commuting on my specific route. They may not work for you, but maybe they will give you some ideas. The key is there are no rules to being a commuter, per se'. You need to be creative, and you'll need to be able to be a problem solver. If you can manage those two things reasonably well, you will be certain to come up with specific "tricks" of your own for your specific route and its conditions.

Commuting Trick #1: The Bike: I don't like to be limited on my commutes. You might be different. That's cool, but I like options. Options to find very alternative routes. Fat tires open up a bigger "playing field" for me, so I use 'em. Look around your route choices. "What if" you had fat tires, and you were not limited to streets. What could you do? It makes your commute more interesting, fun, and safer, (if you get off roads with traffic and the "alt route" isn't heinous), so keep an open eye and think what bike would suit these options best. For me, a fat tire works. It might be different for you.

Fat tires allow for bad roads, pot holes, dirt, mud, sand, gravel, and any surface you're likely to find on an inner city commute.

Commuting Trick #2: The Clothes: Bike specific stuff is okay, obviously, but don't limit yourself to that. Open up your options. Double front Dickies jeans make great cold weather riding pants with a Velcro strap around each ankle to keep the flapping at bay. Don't have any Velcro straps? Bandannas work great too. Use your imagination. Layer when it is cold, wear loose fitting, cool clothes when it is hot. Experiment. The only cycling specific things you really should consider are a helmet and some protective eyewear. everything else is fair game. The easier and more fun you make this, the more apt you are to do it. 

I mix-n-match civies and cycling gear to taste. Dickies are a staple of my commuting clothing. Cotton t-shirts in the summertime. Just don't limit yourself. Lots of types of clothing could work. Just as long as you keep things out of the rotating parts, that is!

Commuting Trick #3: The Route: First of all- Do Not Go The Way You Would Drive There!! Nine times out of ten, the way you would drive to work is the worst way to bicycle to work. It makes better sense to take a few exploratory trips, either by car, or preferably by bicycle, to scout out your route ahead of time. This can be a fun adventure, and is a great way to learn your city. Trick #1 comes into play here as well. some of your route may not even be on streets or roads! Parking lots, alleys, grassy fields, parks, road right of ways, and more may become part of your daily commute. City maps are readily available, Google Street View, and other route finding options can help get things narrowed down. However; don't rely on this technology, or even paper maps. The only sure-fire way you'll know if the route works, if it even exists, or how it "feels", is to actually scout it out ahead of time.

Scouting out and confirming your route is the first step. then after you have something figured out, you need a "dress rehearsal". Ride the route as if you were going to work, in the clothes you would be wearing, and time yourself, so you have an idea of how long it takes. Don't Race It!! Take it at a leisurely pace, so you get a "real" time for the trip. Remember that wind and weather may extend your commute times, so don't forget to factor that in.

Next Post: How I Deal With Traffic....

My Commuting Tricks

<===Trick #1: Curb-hoppable bikes like this Fargo help tremendously with being "tricky" on your commutes.

After I did the "A Paved Battlefield" series (Part I, Part II, and Part III), I got to thinking about all the little things I learned over the years on my commute. Things I do that make my life a little easier with reference to being around cars, and with regards to making my route a safer, funner one.

I call them "tricks", like one might refer to "tricks of the trade'. These are my specific tricks for commuting on my specific route. They may not work for you, but maybe they will give you some ideas. The key is there are no rules to being a commuter, per se'. You need to be creative, and you'll need to be able to be a problem solver. If you can manage those two things reasonably well, you will be certain to come up with specific "tricks" of your own for your specific route and its conditions.

Commuting Trick #1: The Bike: I don't like to be limited on my commutes. You might be different. That's cool, but I like options. Options to find very alternative routes. Fat tires open up a bigger "playing field" for me, so I use 'em. Look around your route choices. "What if" you had fat tires, and you were not limited to streets. What could you do? It makes your commute more interesting, fun, and safer, (if you get off roads with traffic and the "alt route" isn't heinous), so keep an open eye and think what bike would suit these options best. For me, a fat tire works. It might be different for you.

Fat tires allow for bad roads, pot holes, dirt, mud, sand, gravel, and any surface you're likely to find on an inner city commute.

Commuting Trick #2: The Clothes: Bike specific stuff is okay, obviously, but don't limit yourself to that. Open up your options. Double front Dickies jeans make great cold weather riding pants with a Velcro strap around each ankle to keep the flapping at bay. Don't have any Velcro straps? Bandannas work great too. Use your imagination. Layer when it is cold, wear loose fitting, cool clothes when it is hot. Experiment. The only cycling specific things you really should consider are a helmet and some protective eyewear. everything else is fair game. The easier and more fun you make this, the more apt you are to do it. 

I mix-n-match civies and cycling gear to taste. Dickies are a staple of my commuting clothing. Cotton t-shirts in the summertime. Just don't limit yourself. Lots of types of clothing could work. Just as long as you keep things out of the rotating parts, that is!

Commuting Trick #3: The Route: First of all- Do Not Go The Way You Would Drive There!! Nine times out of ten, the way you would drive to work is the worst way to bicycle to work. It makes better sense to take a few exploratory trips, either by car, or preferably by bicycle, to scout out your route ahead of time. This can be a fun adventure, and is a great way to learn your city. Trick #1 comes into play here as well. some of your route may not even be on streets or roads! Parking lots, alleys, grassy fields, parks, road right of ways, and more may become part of your daily commute. City maps are readily available, Google Street View, and other route finding options can help get things narrowed down. However; don't rely on this technology, or even paper maps. The only sure-fire way you'll know if the route works, if it even exists, or how it "feels", is to actually scout it out ahead of time.

Scouting out and confirming your route is the first step. then after you have something figured out, you need a "dress rehearsal". Ride the route as if you were going to work, in the clothes you would be wearing, and time yourself, so you have an idea of how long it takes. Don't Race It!! Take it at a leisurely pace, so you get a "real" time for the trip. Remember that wind and weather may extend your commute times, so don't forget to factor that in.

Next Post: How I Deal With Traffic....

Walking Into 2011

While most of my friends and cycling aficionados that I know, (and even those I do not know), were out busily doing training rides, or "notable feats of cycling" while I was simply taking it easy.

I mean, it's a holiday weekend, fer cryin' out loud. You can take it easy. Really. Once in awhile.

And why not do it with close family and friends while it is cold out? I don't know, but somehow it got to be "cool" to do the New Year's Day ride thing, and well, that's all well and fine.

And it doesn't mean you have to become a sedentary pig while you do it either. Although, for other reasons, my physical activity level was on low this weekend. I did get out for a hike with my son. It was good.

Winter time always amazes me with the low angle of the sun, and the way it plays off things in the sky and on the ground. It is great to be out at sunrise, or near sunset, (as I was), to check out the amazing beauty of it all.

So anyway, here's a thought for all you cyclists out there for next New Years time. Do your ride at night, on New Year's Eve, and celebrate New Year's coming out in the woods somewhere. I've done that a couple of times. Pretty cool.



I walked into 2011. Probably will get my first ride in as a commute to work, just like my last ride was in 2010. The holiday times are over. Time to start riding in earnest again!

Walking Into 2011

While most of my friends and cycling aficionados that I know, (and even those I do not know), were out busily doing training rides, or "notable feats of cycling" while I was simply taking it easy.

I mean, it's a holiday weekend, fer cryin' out loud. You can take it easy. Really. Once in awhile.

And why not do it with close family and friends while it is cold out? I don't know, but somehow it got to be "cool" to do the New Year's Day ride thing, and well, that's all well and fine.

And it doesn't mean you have to become a sedentary pig while you do it either. Although, for other reasons, my physical activity level was on low this weekend. I did get out for a hike with my son. It was good.

Winter time always amazes me with the low angle of the sun, and the way it plays off things in the sky and on the ground. It is great to be out at sunrise, or near sunset, (as I was), to check out the amazing beauty of it all.

So anyway, here's a thought for all you cyclists out there for next New Years time. Do your ride at night, on New Year's Eve, and celebrate New Year's coming out in the woods somewhere. I've done that a couple of times. Pretty cool.



I walked into 2011. Probably will get my first ride in as a commute to work, just like my last ride was in 2010. The holiday times are over. Time to start riding in earnest again!

Trans Iowa Update #9: More On Equipment Choices

Lights, clothing, tires, and more.This Update will focus on some of the other equipment issues you will need to sort out for taking part in Trans Iowa V7 this coming April. The last update on equipment choices can be checked out here, in case you missed it.

Lights: For lights you will need to have three things covered to make your adventure a more enjoyable, safe one. These things are #1: Your lights run time must be figured out, and subsequent battery life needs considered, #2: You must consider a light source for seeing signs, cue sheets, and for making any repairs, or for searching through bags, that might be necessary, and #3: You must have a bright, visible tail light. Let's break this down point by point.

#1: Run Time and Battery Life: Notice that I never mentioned having "powerful lights". For gravel grinding, the lights used for mountain bike single track riding are overkill, and run times not sufficient, (on high power settings). My experience shows that if you can find a light source with approximately 200 lumens and that throws a good beam pattern down the road at least 150 feet ahead of you, you can gravel grind safely and with confidence. Obviously, many more powerful mountain bike lighting systems can be run at lower power settings and achieve longer run times. Keep in mind that you will have to cover 12-13 hours of darkness, depending upon the weather. (Two-three hours right off the bat, the rest through Sat.night/Sun. morning) Battery life will have to get you through that time without access to charging facilities. So, you'll probably have to carry an extra battery, or more, to get through the event. (Unless you run a generator system, then you are good to go).

#2: Secondary Light Source: A handle bar mounted system is good, but you will also need to consider a secondary light source to see the street sign markings, your cue sheets, and for any off bike things. This works best as a helmet mounted light, and it doesn't have to be a huge, powerful light. Usually something with a spot beam and that has long run time that can easily be mounted on the helmet works just fine for this.

#3: Tail light: A bright, easily seen tail light in flashing mode is a requirement to ride in Trans Iowa V7. We won't allow you to start without lights, and the tail light is part of that requirement. One word to the wise: Don't forget to turn off your tail light to preserve battery life in the daytime if the sun is out.

A Final Word On Lights: Make sure your lighting system is securely mounted. Many T.I. competitors have lost their lighting systems on rough gravel roads that vibrated their lights off, or caused mounting brackets to fail. Commuter lighting systems are most likely to suffer from this fate. You've been warned!

Clothing: Due to the nature of the date for Trans Iowa, clothing choices can be a critical factor in your success or failure in the event. Weather will affect this event, like it always does. Be prepared to have rain, snow, wind, sun, and hot and cold temperatures be possibilities for the event. We've seen all of these happen in the last six Trans Iowas.

Everyone has different needs, but I would suggest the following kit as being a "smart" choice for Trans Iowa without being overkill.

1. A good, high quality pair of cycling shorts/bibs/or knickers.
2.  A base layer garment for the torso.
3.  A long sleeved cycling jersey, or a short sleeved one with arm warmers.
4.  A windbreaker, at a minimum, or a rain jacket that can double as a windbreaker.
5.  A good pair of cycling gloves, and full fingered ones wouldn't be a bad idea.
6.  A good pair of wool cycling socks. (Maybe carry an extra pair in a bag for later)
7.  A comfortable cycling cap that fits under the helmet.
8.  Some quality eyewear is a must. 

Other items are optional. The above list I would consider as being a minimum for Trans Iowa. Items such as leg warmers or rain pants might be welcomed depending on the forecast for the weekend of T.I.V7. Oh! And don't forget the chamois butter!

Other Equipment: Recently their has been a move to frame bags to carry extra gear, food, and water on these long, ultra-endurance adventures. Under-the-top-tube bags are very common. Models from Revelate Designs, like their Tangle Bag, (shown in the image here) or Jaand Bags who make a popular frame bag are highly recommended. Also, you might want to consider a top tube mounted "bento-bag" like Banjo Brothers Top Tube Bag, (as shown on my Fargo) The aforementioned Revelate Designs makes a killer top tube bag called the Gas Tank which I also highly recommend. Seat bags are another good idea and a bigger bag from Jaand, Revelate Designs, or Topeak will be great additions to your kit.

Hydration packs are still a viable way to go though, and many packs have really upped the game in terms of design and functionality. Comfort has increased, and bladder/bite valve technology is crazy good now. Get a hydration pack that can carry a modest amount of gear and it could be all you'll need for Trans Iowa.

The Osprey line of packs is really a good one. The Raptor 10 model, (pictured), comes highly recommended from me, and so does the always stellar Ergon line of packs, like the BC-1 which carries more of the load on your hips.

Tires: Finally, I'll end this post with a short discussion on tires. Basically, besides the obvious that your choice needs to fit your wheel size and frame/fork combination, I will advise the fatter tire, the better. Having a tread design with some small amount of tread usually works much better than slicks. Mud clearing capabilities will most likely be important. Maybe consider tire width in terms of a balance between maximum width and mud clearances. Puncture resistance isn't a big deal for Trans Iowa. We don't have sharp rocks and thorns to deal with, but don't come without at least two tubes and a patch kit. Popular cyclo-cross tires include the Schwalbe Marathon Series, Continental tires, and some other cyclo-cross tires. 29"er tire choices that make excellent gravel road tires include Bontrager XR-1, WTB Nanoraptors, and WTB Vulpines, (shown).

Basically any semi-slick tread design with good volume and maybe some puncture protection. Finally- Make sure your tires are in great condition. The newer the better.

Next Update: Gravel Road Riding Tips For Trans Iowa

Trans Iowa Update #9: More On Equipment Choices

Lights, clothing, tires, and more.This Update will focus on some of the other equipment issues you will need to sort out for taking part in Trans Iowa V7 this coming April. The last update on equipment choices can be checked out here, in case you missed it.

Lights: For lights you will need to have three things covered to make your adventure a more enjoyable, safe one. These things are #1: Your lights run time must be figured out, and subsequent battery life needs considered, #2: You must consider a light source for seeing signs, cue sheets, and for making any repairs, or for searching through bags, that might be necessary, and #3: You must have a bright, visible tail light. Let's break this down point by point.

#1: Run Time and Battery Life: Notice that I never mentioned having "powerful lights". For gravel grinding, the lights used for mountain bike single track riding are overkill, and run times not sufficient, (on high power settings). My experience shows that if you can find a light source with approximately 200 lumens and that throws a good beam pattern down the road at least 150 feet ahead of you, you can gravel grind safely and with confidence. Obviously, many more powerful mountain bike lighting systems can be run at lower power settings and achieve longer run times. Keep in mind that you will have to cover 12-13 hours of darkness, depending upon the weather. (Two-three hours right off the bat, the rest through Sat.night/Sun. morning) Battery life will have to get you through that time without access to charging facilities. So, you'll probably have to carry an extra battery, or more, to get through the event. (Unless you run a generator system, then you are good to go).

#2: Secondary Light Source: A handle bar mounted system is good, but you will also need to consider a secondary light source to see the street sign markings, your cue sheets, and for any off bike things. This works best as a helmet mounted light, and it doesn't have to be a huge, powerful light. Usually something with a spot beam and that has long run time that can easily be mounted on the helmet works just fine for this.

#3: Tail light: A bright, easily seen tail light in flashing mode is a requirement to ride in Trans Iowa V7. We won't allow you to start without lights, and the tail light is part of that requirement. One word to the wise: Don't forget to turn off your tail light to preserve battery life in the daytime if the sun is out.

A Final Word On Lights: Make sure your lighting system is securely mounted. Many T.I. competitors have lost their lighting systems on rough gravel roads that vibrated their lights off, or caused mounting brackets to fail. Commuter lighting systems are most likely to suffer from this fate. You've been warned!

Clothing: Due to the nature of the date for Trans Iowa, clothing choices can be a critical factor in your success or failure in the event. Weather will affect this event, like it always does. Be prepared to have rain, snow, wind, sun, and hot and cold temperatures be possibilities for the event. We've seen all of these happen in the last six Trans Iowas.

Everyone has different needs, but I would suggest the following kit as being a "smart" choice for Trans Iowa without being overkill.

1. A good, high quality pair of cycling shorts/bibs/or knickers.
2.  A base layer garment for the torso.
3.  A long sleeved cycling jersey, or a short sleeved one with arm warmers.
4.  A windbreaker, at a minimum, or a rain jacket that can double as a windbreaker.
5.  A good pair of cycling gloves, and full fingered ones wouldn't be a bad idea.
6.  A good pair of wool cycling socks. (Maybe carry an extra pair in a bag for later)
7.  A comfortable cycling cap that fits under the helmet.
8.  Some quality eyewear is a must. 

Other items are optional. The above list I would consider as being a minimum for Trans Iowa. Items such as leg warmers or rain pants might be welcomed depending on the forecast for the weekend of T.I.V7. Oh! And don't forget the chamois butter!

Other Equipment: Recently their has been a move to frame bags to carry extra gear, food, and water on these long, ultra-endurance adventures. Under-the-top-tube bags are very common. Models from Revelate Designs, like their Tangle Bag, (shown in the image here) or Jaand Bags who make a popular frame bag are highly recommended. Also, you might want to consider a top tube mounted "bento-bag" like Banjo Brothers Top Tube Bag, (as shown on my Fargo) The aforementioned Revelate Designs makes a killer top tube bag called the Gas Tank which I also highly recommend. Seat bags are another good idea and a bigger bag from Jaand, Revelate Designs, or Topeak will be great additions to your kit.

Hydration packs are still a viable way to go though, and many packs have really upped the game in terms of design and functionality. Comfort has increased, and bladder/bite valve technology is crazy good now. Get a hydration pack that can carry a modest amount of gear and it could be all you'll need for Trans Iowa.

The Osprey line of packs is really a good one. The Raptor 10 model, (pictured), comes highly recommended from me, and so does the always stellar Ergon line of packs, like the BC-1 which carries more of the load on your hips.

Tires: Finally, I'll end this post with a short discussion on tires. Basically, besides the obvious that your choice needs to fit your wheel size and frame/fork combination, I will advise the fatter tire, the better. Having a tread design with some small amount of tread usually works much better than slicks. Mud clearing capabilities will most likely be important. Maybe consider tire width in terms of a balance between maximum width and mud clearances. Puncture resistance isn't a big deal for Trans Iowa. We don't have sharp rocks and thorns to deal with, but don't come without at least two tubes and a patch kit. Popular cyclo-cross tires include the Schwalbe Marathon Series, Continental tires, and some other cyclo-cross tires. 29"er tire choices that make excellent gravel road tires include Bontrager XR-1, WTB Nanoraptors, and WTB Vulpines, (shown).

Basically any semi-slick tread design with good volume and maybe some puncture protection. Finally- Make sure your tires are in great condition. The newer the better.

Next Update: Gravel Road Riding Tips For Trans Iowa

2011 New Year's "Ride-O-Lutions" List

I could list all the usual suspects for a New Year's Day post. Resolutions, yada, yada, yada........

No way! I'm listing my "Ride-O-Lutions for 2011"!

So, here are my thoughts going into 2011 for riding goals. These are in absolutely no particular order.

---More Night Time Gravel Rides: These rides with "d.p." were a highlight for me of 2010's riding season. I want more of that.  We had purposed that this would be a weekly thing. Maybe it should be. Anybody game?

---Dirty Kanza 200: While the official registration has not been opened yet, I have already been asked to return to this sufferfest by the promoters of the event. So, this has become a centerpiece of the early season for me in 2011.

---Ride In The Twin Cities: I got up there three times in 2010. I want to get up there at least that many times, and preferably more, in 2011. I have good friends up there, and the riding is spectacular..

---Ride In Wisconsin: Yeah, it is a general, vague goal, but I do have some specific thoughts here. I know two fellas that have been pestering me for years, (literally), to come and sample the riding in their state. Also, there are a few big ride opportunities there I could take advantage of if the chips all fall in the right places. We'll see, but Wisco is on my radar for 2011.

---Gravel World Championships: Lincoln, Nebraska- awesome cycling fiends, and killer gravel roads. More than enough reasons to get back to Nebraska to ride the PCL's Gravel Worlds. But there should also be another ride or three in Nebraska on their fine single track. If I can, I want to do that too.

---Guitar Ted Death Ride Invitational: I have a plan to move this ride again. It's going to be more centrally located in Iowa. Probably in Jasper County, or Tama County. I have routes already done. Campgrounds are already on my radar. Basically, wherever the ride is held, I just want to finish it this year!

---Faribault Rides: My good friend Ben Witt lives in Northfield, and works his shop in Faribault. I want to get up there and ride with him a few times in 2011. The Rawland Fall Tour of 2010 was so spectacular, for instance, that I just feel like I need to tap into more of that good stuff there in 2011.

---And More?: Will there be any time for more? ha! I don't know. I'm sure other opportunities will crop up, and maybe some of these rides I am thinking of today just won't happen in 2011, but others unplanned for will. One thing I do know- This year is a big deal to me for personal reasons. I want to celebrate it with gusto. Hopefully I get to share that with as many of you that I know that I can. And I hope to meet even more new folks while riding bikes in 2011 as well.

Happy New Year!

2011 New Year's "Ride-O-Lutions" List

I could list all the usual suspects for a New Year's Day post. Resolutions, yada, yada, yada........

No way! I'm listing my "Ride-O-Lutions for 2011"!

So, here are my thoughts going into 2011 for riding goals. These are in absolutely no particular order.

---More Night Time Gravel Rides: These rides with "d.p." were a highlight for me of 2010's riding season. I want more of that.  We had purposed that this would be a weekly thing. Maybe it should be. Anybody game?

---Dirty Kanza 200: While the official registration has not been opened yet, I have already been asked to return to this sufferfest by the promoters of the event. So, this has become a centerpiece of the early season for me in 2011.

---Ride In The Twin Cities: I got up there three times in 2010. I want to get up there at least that many times, and preferably more, in 2011. I have good friends up there, and the riding is spectacular..

---Ride In Wisconsin: Yeah, it is a general, vague goal, but I do have some specific thoughts here. I know two fellas that have been pestering me for years, (literally), to come and sample the riding in their state. Also, there are a few big ride opportunities there I could take advantage of if the chips all fall in the right places. We'll see, but Wisco is on my radar for 2011.

---Gravel World Championships: Lincoln, Nebraska- awesome cycling fiends, and killer gravel roads. More than enough reasons to get back to Nebraska to ride the PCL's Gravel Worlds. But there should also be another ride or three in Nebraska on their fine single track. If I can, I want to do that too.

---Guitar Ted Death Ride Invitational: I have a plan to move this ride again. It's going to be more centrally located in Iowa. Probably in Jasper County, or Tama County. I have routes already done. Campgrounds are already on my radar. Basically, wherever the ride is held, I just want to finish it this year!

---Faribault Rides: My good friend Ben Witt lives in Northfield, and works his shop in Faribault. I want to get up there and ride with him a few times in 2011. The Rawland Fall Tour of 2010 was so spectacular, for instance, that I just feel like I need to tap into more of that good stuff there in 2011.

---And More?: Will there be any time for more? ha! I don't know. I'm sure other opportunities will crop up, and maybe some of these rides I am thinking of today just won't happen in 2011, but others unplanned for will. One thing I do know- This year is a big deal to me for personal reasons. I want to celebrate it with gusto. Hopefully I get to share that with as many of you that I know that I can. And I hope to meet even more new folks while riding bikes in 2011 as well.

Happy New Year!