Training

I have started to develop a training plan for my mountain bike excursions this summer. The plan seems relatively simple and not overly time consuming. I believe most of my training can be done before work.

It consists of:

2 interval/hill repeat days
1 or 2 long days
rest day of 30-60 minute easy recovery ride between hard days

Sounds pretty easy. It will be done in 4 week stages where weeks 1-3 will be gradually increasing in length and intensity, then week 4 will be a recovery week with easy spinning or cross training. Then I will start the process all over again. I'd like to work up to about 100 miles for the long ride preferably on or consisting of mountain bike trails.

The problem I am facing right now is how to start. What should I start with? I think I want my long days to be no longer than 20 miles for now. I would actually rather do a few slow long rides but not measured in miles but hours to start. Try to keep my butt in the saddle for 2 hours, then work up from there.

What should I do about the interval and hill repeats? I figure 30 minutes to an hour will probably be more than enough to start. I could do something like 1m30sec off then 30sec hard... I really need to figure that out. Get some sort of plan together.

I suppose I have the basics down, the rest will follow once I figure out where my current fitness is.

If all else fails, I'll just ride lots! Add in some speed work and climb many hills. Then take a week off. Rinse and repeat.

Oh, my other goal is to be at 170 by June 1. That's 20 pounds in 6 months. I think it's a reasonable goal for sure.

I need a scale battery for home and then I can track my progress here.

Thanks

Thanks for the congrats to those of you who read this. It is going to be a short commute. I told my wife that I would be coming home late most of the time as I will have to ride out of my way to get any sort of ride in. One thing I will have to figure out is where I will be parking my bike once I arrive at work. I used to be able to put it in my office. My new job has a big open space where my coworkers all sit. I'm not sure what the rule is there on bringing bicycles into the office. They don't have bike parking out front either. I might have to work on the corporation to get parking installed.

Fenders are another thing I will need. Not that it's very far, but in the slop and rain, I really don't want to show up with a nice rooster tail on my back. That might not go over very well in a professional work environment.

Oli got me a great gift for Christmas. I actually picked it out and paid for it, Oli's only 1 and he doesn't have much money. There are multiple places I can use it. The most common use will be on the bike. It could and probably will be worn on my helmet whilst I am on my bike. Can any of you guess what that gift might be? If a company would donate one to this blog, I could give it away to the right guesser, however, I highly doubt that will happen. But if it does, I'll notify the winner and send it. Don't expect one though.

I'm really excited for spring riding to come around. Angie got me a great bicycle jersey for my birthday a month ago and it's been far too cold to wear it. I can't remember if I posted it, but I got a fat cyclist jersey. She ordered it when Twin Six was donating half of the jersey cost to the fat cyclist for his wife who is battling cancer. I think it was one of the greatest gifts ever because it affected more than just my happiness, but it helped a family in need.

I'm out for today and probably until Monday. It looks as if I will be taking Friday off work so I can spend time with my family.

On a different note, I doubt that I got that light weight fancy Kona frame I've been dreaming about for Christmas. It might have to be a spring gift to me.

News

I was offered a new job yesterday. I accepted. My position is going to be creative services specialist and I'll be working at Black Hills Corporation. It's an energy company. I'm really excited because it's about 6 blocks from my house, the benefits are extremely good and I'll be working someplace different. My position here at NAU has lasted for almost 6 years and although it is fun at times, I feel like a change.

I think I will start there on the 12th of January, maybe the 5th but probably the 12th. There is much to finish up here.

Merry Christmas to you all.

I can and will ride my bike to work every day. Wednesdays are going to be the only day that I will have to drive and that's so I can pick Oli up from daycare. I'd do it on my bike, but it's like 10 miles from town and there is no way I'd get there by 5:30. So, I can bike 4 days a week.

And a Happy New Year!

2 Days

We went for 2 days without having much for a furnace. 62 degrees was about as warm as it ever got. Called a repair man, he came, cleaned the flame sensor and works fine. Why I didn't do it two days ago? I have no idea.

Much better now.

Winter Rides

Well, I made the ride on Friday night. A perfect group of 12 showed at Dunn Bros to brave the full moon and darkness up M-Hill. We left right at 6pm and cruised up the East side of the hill (Sun Climb). It was a challenging climb since I really haven't done much riding. I was able to ride roughly 80% of it though. I stopped to shine a light on a fellow rider who had broken their chain.

Upon reaching the top of M-Hill, we rode some extremely fun new single track at the top. It circles most of the hill on the West, South and Eastern sides. After the new single track, we cruised down through dark forest and ended the ride. I tried out a new light from Acme Bicycles (Thanks Tim) and enjoyed it alot. Night riding is much more fun when you have the right gear.

It sounds like there will be a night ride every month on the full moon. So, if you happen to be in Rapid during that time of month, check out the forums on www.bhmba.org and see when and were the ride is taking place. I hope we continue it during the entire year.

I might have found my bike to try and ride Leadville and the Laramie Enduro. Acme has a Kona Kula Supreme race frame that I have my eye on. If I can get my Dawg (20" 2006 with Vanilla R rear shock) sold, I will be purchasing the new frame. It's super light and will be perfect for my goals for 2009. I'll have to buy some additional parts, but should be able to build it relatively reasonable.

Training will begin.

Oh, I also rode on Saturday afternoon before it got really crappy. I rode from our house, up and over Skyline to Acme bicycles to return the light. Then rode back. It was cold on the trip back. I didn't ride a lot this weekend, but I would say I put in roughly 10 miles or so, maybe a little more.

I need to start taking pictures and post on this blog. It's awfully text heavy. Icky

Snow

It snowed last night and today. That means a snowy and/or a muddy ride tomorrow, in the dark. A group of people are meeting at Dunn Bros on Omaha and riding up the East side of M-hill at 6pm. There are some new paths being constructed that we will check out then descend one of two ways. We will either cruise leisurely through the dark forest or we will come down the rock garden. Since I either won't have lights, or will have a very dimly lit light, I'm sure I will choose the dark forest route, which I will say... is going to be dark (read, dark forest).

It's a really fun section in the daylight, no idea what it will entail at night. It could be super dangerous and i will surely die. Or, everything will be just fine. There have been talks of different routes going up as well. A hard route and a simpler one. Neither is very easy as M-hill is quite steep no matter which way you go up. I'm sure it will be a fun ride with either route.

I have 2 lights that I plan on using. 1 is a very cheap cat eye brand, maybe, LED light that goes on my handlebars. It is really not so much for seeing, but to be seen. I am also going to duct tape a flash light on my helmet. The flashlight is a relatively small, very brightly lit flashlight that should work pretty well if and only if I am able to strategically place the flashlight in the correct spot and I am not lighting the sky...

I'll post a full report on either Saturday or Monday. I'm looking forward to the ride.

Lights

I'm still waiting on those lights. I have a night ride scheduled for Friday and I still don't have any. Looks as if I am going to have to duct tape a flashlight to my helmet. eh, it'll be interesting.

I'm going to make jerky (antelope) either tonight or tomorrow... maybe Thursday. I picked up some seasoning and I will cut up a few pounds over lunch today. I hope it's good.

I was going to ride a duathlon on Sunday but insulated our attic instead. We used blow-in cellulose. Recycled paper and not itchy... and good for the environment.

I need to ride my bike. It's not that it's too cold, too wet, too whatever, it's that I'm freaking busy.

Does anyone want to buy some rollers? Seriously! The exact ones are located... here

They really haven't been ridden that much. There is no wear. I bet I put a total of 200 miles on them. Since my road bike left, I have no bike that works well on these. Make me an offer. I really don't care, I just want them out of my house. They're in my way.

Published

I'm pretty excited today. I'm published for the first time ever! It's nothing big or real special... wait, it is big and it is special.

read http://www.sddot.com/srts/news.aspx

Dec/Jan edition, page 3.

Then go ride your bike!!! It's not that cold out.

Strange

Has anyone noticed all the items on the right sidebar are gone? When I check out my settings, they're all there, however when I view it... gone.

Oh well.

So far I rode my bike Monday and Wednesday (today) morning. Both days were quite cold at 5am. Today was really cold though. I bundled up perfectly though. UnderArmor base with jeans and a fleese, then I had on my Columbia coat with a stocking hat and some good gloves. I also threw on this thing that covers your face... I used it snowmobiling when I was younger. I was perfect. My fingers did get slightly chilly. On the way back home, the road turns to a slight uphill. I just started to sweat when I got home. I thought about walking some so I wouldn't sweat, but knew I was close. The snow and the ice on the roads made it very interesting.

I'm still waiting on some vendors to hook me up with some lights to review. I haven't had any offers.

The race this weekend is still on as far as I know. I offered to help out either before or after the race. I probably won't run as my knee hurts pretty bad. I really screwed it up on the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving. At least I can bike.

Giving Thanks

I ate way too much for turkey day. It's a bad habit that can't be broken, and why should it?

I also ran my first Turkey Trot 5K and rode my bike this morning before work and to work. It was pretty cold 16F this morning at 5am and it warmed up quick on my way to work. I overdressed bad. My feet were froze but the rest of me was sweating. I'll need to figure it out. I used to have it down.

There is a dirt duathlon this Sunday at Buzzard's Roost. I'm going to try it. Money goes to BHMBA for trails, etc.

Updates

I have nothing. I got my Kona Coilair out last night and was going to attempt to ride it on my rollers. It's too big. Wouldn't work. So then I decided to grab my old Novara to ride. It would work, but i can't get enough pressure in the tires for it to roll. The knobby tires really throw a hitch in things too.

So, I was going to get up this morning and ride the Novara outside. I couldn't do it. I was even up at 5am and I couldn't roll myself out of bed to actually do it. I don't know why I've become so lazy. It's annoying.

My Coilair isn't real responsive in the cold weather. The shocks are very sticky, which makes perfect sense.

I'd really like to get a Karate Monkey to make as a commuter/road/everything bike. If anyone has one and wants a Kona Dawg frame, I'd trade. I will even kick in some extra money.

I need some good lights too. Rear and front. I have a couple front lights that will work, but no back light.

Have a happy thanksgiving.

Web site

I have updated the South Dakota Bicycling Coalition Web site. I am in need of content for the site. If you have any... let me know. It will provide a wealth of information regarding the movement towards a bicycle friendly state.

No Ride

Well, it's Tuesday and I didn't get to ride today. It's such a nice day too! I'll wait until Thursday. Such is life. Heck, maybe I'll get a ride in the dark tonight. Wait, I don't have any lights. Flashlight I guess.

I want to test bicycle products then report on my findings. Yep, that's what I want to do. If there are any bicycle light manufacturers out there who want me to test a few things, I would be more than happy. This blog probably gets a good 3 or 4 site visits a day. That is astronomical.

I need and will finish the http://www.southdakotabicyclecoalition.org website soon. I'm going to change it up a bit because what is there, is total crap. I don't like it at all, not the software used, not the layout and certainly not the usability. I said it before, and I'll say it again, IT"S CRAP

Training Continues

I haven't done any sort of training or exercising in over a week. See, a week ago Thursday, we had a large snow storm that kept us house bound, then we also didn't come to work Friday. So, that means I didn't work those two days which also means that I didn't get paid for those two days. So, I spent my lunch hours working last week to make up at least a few hours. Now, my training resumes this week.

I think I might change it up a bit though. I am going to start doing more endurance type training with a little weight lifting. More running and riding and less lifting. I'll still go to the gym, but it's time I start building a good base for when my serious training starts in February for the endurance bike races I'm planning. 1 being the Leadville 100 and the other Laramie Enduro and of course the usual Dakota 5-0.

I need to look up a good cycling lifting plan. I also need to start spending some time outside on my bike. With the wife's approval, I should ride my bike to work on Tuesday and Thursday since I lift on MW&F. We ride together everyday to work since we work at the same place and we drive Oli to daycare. I like seeing him off for the day. Spending time, although limited, on the bike would be very good for me.

I need to write an article for the Safe Routes to School newsletter. It's short, 175-225 words, but I seem to have writer's block. I know what I want to write about, I just can't seem to get words on the paper. Ugh!

It's a new day, smile, be happy and do something for someone!

Inspiration

I'm not sure why, but recently I seem to have had a revelation on why I love design. See, I am in the education pseudo Web design industry and lately it seems I've fallen into a bit of a slump. However, the last couple days have been quite inspiring for me. Accidentally, I stumbled upon some really good Web sites with amazing design that lead to other sites with the same qualities. These things are really what I needed at this point.

My slump has been looming around me for a couple months. Feelings of creative nothingness have lingered to the point where I want to quit and become a poet (not true). Thank goodness for yesterday. Somehow, a new sense of freedom and passion has found its place back in my heart where I can once again enjoy the profession of design.

Sometimes it's not even the profession itself, but more importantly, the willingness to put myself out there. Every time I design anything, I feel that it's a piece of me. Somedays are better than others and some days lead to days that I dwell on for months. They are just plain crappy. Like many designers, I need constant inspiration to continue to be inspired. That might sound repetitive, but it's true, without inspiration, we, as designers, are left to explore our own thoughts which more often than not, lead to emptiness or places you don't want to go.

So, all in all, I'm glad that I've had the last couple days to revive my passion for my profession. I'm still not entirely happy because I feel there is a change that needs to happen, but I am convinced that my current choice will lead me where I need to go. At this point, I'm not sure where that is, but I do think it is somewhere creative and it is somewhere that has been in my heart since I was drawing my first stick figure on a napkin. It needs to be someplace where creativity flows much more habitually than it does now.

Insulation

We need to put some insulation in our attic to reduce the amount of heat loss. I know we need it because the home inspector told us so a year and a half ago. We haven't done anything about it yet. I really need to get that going.

It would actually be quite nifty to make it into another room. It's a huge space and it would be absolutely amazing to utilize that space. I'm really not sure how though. We have an old house and to put stairs in to get to the attic would be very tight and cramped. So, we'll probably just insulate and call it good. Maybe some this weekend. Who knows.

Monday night I talked about going for a ride or a run. I didn't. Instead, I opened a bottle of gin and some tonic and had a couple drinks. It was almost like working out.

Tonight Angie works late so it's just Oli and I. We probably won't do anything too crazy. Eat supper and that's about it.

Typical Day.

It's chilly outside today. I think I enjoy it. I say "think" because other than at 7:30 this morning, I haven't been outside. Since the storm cut short last week's work, I decided to make up for it by not taking a lunch. No lunch makes for an incredibly long day. I'm pretty sure I'm going to go for a short bike ride or a run after work.

The weekend was standard usual. Nothing exciting or special.

Snow!

This is day two of not having to go to work due to bad weather. We had a ripper of a storm roll through here yesterday. Work was closed, and it's closed again today. I think in the entire Black Hills area, there is only 1 road open, everything else... closed.

Angie decided she wanted to give shoveling a go once the snow quit. She shoveled for about an hour, then I went out to finish it up. I shoveled for 2 hours and there is still more that could be done. I'm not sure if I'll do it.

I received this picture from a co-worker yesterday. It'll give you a pretty good idea of what we're looking at.



Our house isn't quite that bad, but I assure you that we have more than our share of "drift". The weather said we only got about 9 inches of snow in Rapid, but there are drifts as high as 12 feet. 78 mile an hour winds tend to push things around a bit.

I might even try and get out on one of my bikes for a short ride today. None of them are very snow capable, but they'll work.

Stay warm!

It is over.

I'm glad the election is over. I was/am tired of the ads and signs up everywhere.

I'm still undecided on the duathlon this weekend. I really want to do it because I've spent very little time on my bike in the last month... which by all means, go do a race. I'm stupid... I would also like to spend time with my family as well though. The race only will last for 2 hours at the most. Starts at 9, done at 11 and I could easily be out to the in-laws for lunch by 12. It might work out. We'll see.

Since I've ridden very little, I should do it on my single speed. That would be a sight.

We're in a blizzard warning. Rapid could get anywhere from 12-24 inches of snow. Maybe we won't have work tomorrow. Now that would be a blessing.

My birthday is in 10 days. If you want, feel free to send me any shimano saint component and or a marzocchi 44 fork. That would make me happy.

Couple things

Go vote today!

I still am undecided on who I'm going to vote for, it's going to be a last minute decision.

I took the dog for a run this morning. I assume I went 4ish miles. 50 minutes at a pretty slow pace.

There is a buzzard's roost dirt duathlon this weekend (Sunday). 5 miles West of Rapid City on Hwy 44. I really want to do it, but I can't be certain. I need to spend some time with the family.

Um, I went deer hunting down my Custer on Saturday/Sunday morning. I didn't get anything.

My hamstring hurts.

Coffee is good.

Vote 'r' die

Peace

Title

My city league flag football team won the championship last night. We had to play 2 games which obviously we won. The games really weren't that difficult to win. Our team was on fire.

I am super sore today though. I was going to go for a run over lunch, but decided with the extra sprinting effort I put forth last night, I should take a day off. I'll resume normal workouts tomorrow.

So Far

So far I've been doing well with my workouts. The main thing I'm missing is my cardio, but I'm getting in the weights. Yesterday I lifted legs, then today I went for a 40 minute run.

I didn't track mileage.

I ran for 10 minutes, stopped to stretch the IT band, ran for 10 more, stretch, run for 10 more, then I did 5 30 second sprints followed by 1 minute of running and 30 seconds of jogging. I finished it off with a couple minutes cool down running. It felt good, but my legs are pretty mad at me now after lifting and running.

Monday - Lift Legs
Tuesday - Jog 40 minutes with 5 - 30 second sprints
Wednesday - Lift Chest & Back
Thursday - Jog 40 minutes
Friday - Lift ??? Arms, Abs
Saturday - Off/Cross Train

I need to get another cardio workout in. It will probably be on Sunday.

The Battle that will be Won!

I feel that my new conquest in life is to get stronger, leaner and compete. 2009 has to be a year that I try and do well in the Dakota 5-0, compete in Leadville for the first time and run the Boulder Boulder. You've all heard this before, but I feel that I am right on track to begin some good training at the beginning of '09.

I have started weight training and doing some moderate running on the treadmill. It really makes me feel good. Today, I only ran for 5 minutes, but I wanted to get a decent upper body workout in. I did chest and back and some shoulders. Monday will be a legs day. I'm going to try and fit in some cardio over the weekend. Probably a 3 mile run or something with small intervals mixed in.

I really need to get together a training plan. I'm horrible at doing something if it isn't written out ahead of time for me. Maybe I'll do that this weekend too.

Anyone who reads this crappy blog have any ideas on training? Winter training and then some good running and biking training for the spring? I'll take anything that is good.

I know what my goals are, I don't know how to reach them without the right training.

Couple things

I went to Borders yesterday and bought myself some new reading material. Visual Basic 2008 and Build Your Own ASP.NET Website. I know, neither of these are bicycling related, but I feel that you should know. Why... cuz it's my blog and I'll tell you if I want to.

I think I got Angie talked into running the Boulder Boulder with me this coming May. It'll be great cardio training for me as i still want to try and do the Leadville 100 next August. Between running and riding, I should be ready. All I have to do is get picked to race.

Lifting

I started lifting weights last week. When I was in college, it was a daily activity. Once I graduated, I didn't loose the ambition, but I did loose the free gym, I lost the convenience and I lost some time. I have decided that I need to get back to lifting for the health of it, so on Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday's, I go to the NAU gym and get a 1 hour workout in. I lifted legs last Friday and then I did some lunges yesterday, my legs are quite mad.

I became a little upset about the amount of muscle loss I have experienced. I used to be able to push quite a bit of weight, now, I lift only a little. I could bench my body weight and I could squat far more than 225 pounds. I'll get it back.

After I finished my lift yesterday, I did an interval workout on the treadmill. 30 seconds at an 8 and 1 minute at a 4-5 (hardness scale). I repeated it 10 times and I'm pretty sure I pulled my quad. It'll be ok, it's not serious, but it does hurt and stretching and loosening does not help. All in all, I feel much better now that I'm lifting.

And, if that isn't enough, I ordered some new running shoes. This is one thing I am extremely excited about. 5 years ago, I ran the Mt. Rushmore marathon. I'd like to do one again but have had knee (ITB) problems. I recently talked with Josh Ellis (founder of the Gut Check 212) about it and he strongly advised new shoes. He said problems like that usually stem from the feet. So, we'll see if that helps. Angie and I might have the goal of running the Boulder Boulder next year. I would also love to do another marathon!

Things I would like to do.

I have many things I would like to do or become better at. Most of these items require time and energy and that is something that I've been lacking lately. I have a passion, desire and motivation but when it all comes down to it, I really don't want to get involved in anything at this point of my life. We have a 10 month old boy, we both work full-time jobs and our lives seem to move non-stop in every direction except the way we want so adding things to the already full list seems like a bad idea.

1. Become a better designer (web mostly)
2. Learn a programming language (asp.net would be the choice)
3. Become a better writer.
4. Get inspired by something.
5. Get a master's degree
6. Possess a position that would promote or utilize such degree
7. Exercise more
8. Put together a portfolio

Just the two of us

It was just Oli and I last night. Angie is at a retreat in Keystone for work so it was just the boys. We did alot. I got something yesterday (Angie doesn't know yet). I aquired a practically brand new foosball table. It is in perfect shape and is super fun.

My old boss moved to Missouri and he was emptying out his house for the last few days. I asked him what his plans were for the table and he told me I could have it if I would move 2 couches for him. I jumped right on that one and loaded it up and took it home. Oli and I set it up last night and I diddled around with it a bit.

Today, after work we are heading back to Miller for some hunting and family time. We also get to see some people that only come around once a year, these strangers are from Wisconsin. They've been coming hunting for about 5-10 years now. Great people.

Oh, and I will probably drink alot of beer. Have a good weekend.

More stuff

I can't get over the idea of wanting my master's degree in something. It's getting to the point where I don't even care what it's in. I'll get a degree in shoe polishing if that where an actual degree. I think I may have found something that really interests me and will probably enhance my current position. I found an online master's degree in internet marketing. It looks perfect. I won't become a surgeon or a geological engineer (both of which I have considered, I'm too scared) but it really looks interesting. The program can be completed in 1 year and then I can continue my current job but I might be able to teach or develop a new position. Anyway, the possibilities are endless.

I posted a video on youtube yesterday of Oli laughing. It's the greatest thing in the entire world. I'm not sure why I didn't post it here, so I'm going to... Here goes.

Happenings

Not much has been going on. There has been no bike riding, no going anywhere, no shopping, no anything. It is actually pretty nice.

Oli is getting better. You better watch out when he sneezes though. It's pretty gross.

We are traveling back to my parent's farm this weekend for opening pheasant season. I'm really excited about it. I finally get to take the dog out for her second season and see if she's matured any. I'm sure she hasn't, but you never know.

I also might have another freelance website job. A friend of my dad's has a car restoration business and apparently he is in the market for a site. I need to give him a call and set up a time to meet.

Sickness

The kid is still sick today. I feel quite bad for the little dude. He's all stuffed up and plugged and coughs and he's only 9 months old. It shouldn't be that way.

I think I'm going to have to get a bike ride in this weekend. It's supposed to be cold and rainy, but I have to do it anyway.

Events

Oli was sick yesterday so I stayed at home with him. I work in the computer industry so utilizing the latest, I was able to complete some work from home. Definitely not a full day's worth, but some work anyway. Oli needed me more than work did.

When Angie got home, I decided to take the dog out for a run/ride. We walked up to the Skyline trail where I let her off the leash and let her go. Wow, she was wound up! I knew she was fast, but dang, I couldn't keep up with her. Then about half way up the trail, I realized I had completely forgot my helmet. I never forget my helmet. I seriously thought about going back, but I figured by the time I go back, my half hour would be up. So, I rode very cautiously with no helmet. I know, it is not safe nor smart, but I did what I had to do.

I received an email today from a state employee about possibly writing an article for a newsletter. The entire SDBC received this offer. I would love to give it a shot, but I really don't believe in my writing skills. This blog was started so I could try and work on that a bit. I don't think it's helped, but I find it mildly entertaining.

I may have said something before, but my road bike is officially gone. I'm down to 4 bikes, all being of the mountain variety. I was thinking of the possibility of a Surly Karate Monkey, but now I'm thinking I should just put my Dawg back together as a light race machine. I can then use one of the others for my road adventures. Or any of them for that matter.

The Hunt

The antelope hunt was a success. My buddy and I both got one, brought them home and prepared them for eating. I haven't made anything yet, but it's ready.

Last Tuesday I got on my singlespeed bike to do a little climbing workout. I was able to ride up Floorman, a 8% grade for about a mile, twice. I wanted to do it more, but I really struggled the second time. I will try it again tomorrow night. I wish I would have been able to ride more during the week but there are so many things going on. It's nearly impossible to find an hour for a ride.

The Hunt is ON

Tonight I leave for an antelope hunt. I've never hunted antelope and it should be interesting. I've heard it makes good jerky??? whatever.

We're camping in Buffalo which is about 2 hours North of Rapid. It should be fun.

Yawn!

Wow, this week has gotten to me. I'm ready to call it a done deal. I have had so much to do at work and away from work. I met with Mr. Jerry Cole (Director of Parks and Rec in RC) about all the bicycle plans that are coming up and asked where I could help. Right now it's at a tipping point, then when everything starts to roll, they will be asking for assistance. Things are looking good for RC and bicycling, it'll just take a little time.

We lost our flag football game last night. It was a nail biter. We played the best team in the league and lost by 4 points. We had them, just didn't get our last touchdown right before the end of the game. I'm a little worn out today from it. Those guys run harder than any other team, so it makes us run harder. It's super fun though.

Dirt Duathlon

I took part in a dirt duathlon on Sunday. A buddy of mine that runs did that section and I did the riding section. The race was held on the Flume Trail and Storm Mountain trail. 1.9 mile run, 5.5 mile bike then another 1.9 mile run. I think I did my section in about 35 minutes. I was actually quite disappointed because 5 people passed me. I just didn't have the legs which means I need to ride more hills or do more strength workouts for my legs. It was a bummer.

My team came in first in that category. I think our total time was just over an hour.

BHMBA is going to have another on November 9th. It's a bit more expensive but it all goes to a good cause.

Single Speed Hill Test

Alright, so I rode the single speed bike for the first time to work. Really, it's the first time I've ridden it anywhere that didn't have Oli on the back.

So the trip to work is actually kind of a duzy. It rolls out of my house on a nice flat level road which within a couple of blocks turns to a slightly upward grade. Then after the 3rd block, we go shooting up into the air for the next mile. I believe it's about a 8 or 9 (maybe steaper) percent grade. My single speed is set up with a 32x16 right now. It was the first time that I actually thought I was going to throw up on a bike. I never stopped nor did I get off and push. I kept pushing up and up until I hit Skyline Drive.

At that point there is about 100 yards of relatively flat grade before another steep climb for about 100 yards, then rinse and repeat.

Once I reached the service road it's all a slight downhill. I was maybe going 12 mph at the finish.

It was a good experience and I can see how riding a single speed bike can really strengthen your legs. I really had to push far more than I do on my geared bikes. Now I'm intreagued enough where I may take it out on a trail tomorrow to see what that's like.

I would like to change the gearing a bit to make it a bit more Black Hills friendly. I've heard of most people riding a 32x18 and some even a 32x20. I think the 32x18 sounds nice.

Good Bye

I had to say goodbye to an old friend today. I packed up my Trek 1500 road bike and put it in the mail. It's going to its new home in Minnesota. I am actually quite a bit more sad than I thought i would be. It kind of feels like I am losing a part of myself. I couldn't really justify keeping it when I have 4 other completely capable bikes sitting in the garage. It was my first road bike. I will always remember you (tear)...

I have had many good times on that bike. My very first century, my first and second Gut Check 212 and many many rides on roads that I normally wouldn't have gone on. We've spend alot of time thinking and talking. We enjoyed the scenery together and we've shed some tears and muscle tears. The Trek is a snappy bike that loves to be ridden, which is why I had to say goodbye.

Alright, now I'm going to have to go get it from FedEx... crap, what did I do..

No, wait, it's a good thing. Soon enough, I will be moving on to bigger, better newer bikes that will meet my needs just as much. It's ok, relax and enjoy the feeling of the bright future ahead!

My dearest friend, Trek... Take good care of your new owner. Ride long and hard and remember the times we've shared! Good bye...

Interesting

I came to work today with a down and out mood. It really didn't get any better upon arriving. I have been working with a select group of people that I haven't been able to find a solution for an issue. I ended up solving the problem and provided a more efficient way of completing their task. Upon explaining the way to accomplish assigned task, I was told to "eat shit". No kidding, in a professional work environment and after providing a solution to accomplish a task that couldn't be done without said solution. That was at 9:30am.

Nice day huh???

Then, I believe I have my road bike sold. I need to pack it up tonight and say my goodbyes. It leaves tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we get carpet in our basement.

Why can't it be the weekend???

Rapid City Events

I'm pretty excited about the up-coming week. It should be alot of fun. I am supposed to set up an appointment with Jerry Cole (not sure of his exact title) but he is the City guy who has much to do with bicycling and the black hills.

The second thing is there is a dirt duathlon at Rockerville on Sunday. It's a short 4K run, 10K ride and then a 4K run to finish it up. I think I have 3 other dudes talked into doing it.

Then I just noticed that there is a critical mass ride on Friday. I'm sure it won't be anything like the New York or San Fransisco ones. We'll probably fallow the law a bit better too.

Anywho, more info on Black Hills bicycling events, go here... www.blackhillsbicycling.com

Theory

I hope this theory comes true.

Constitution Day

It's Constitution Day here at work today. We get a free lunch... yippee (sarcastic)

I wish I wasn't so busy at work. I wish work wasn't such an important part of the American lifestyle. We are so caught up in our work, we can't find time for our families, fun, activity and time to ourselves. That is probably why the American population is getting heavier by the second.

We have to go to McDonalds for lunch because we get a total of 5 minutes off for lunch, and that's assuming your boss doesn't have a list of crap for you to do 10 miles long in which case... you wouldn't get a lunch.

Work is what people do to pay for crap they don't need. I admit, I am one of those people who likes to have "stuff". I don't need most of it but I like to have it.

Some day soon (hopefully), Angie, Oli and I will be able to just pack up and leave. We're going to go somewhere new, different and full of adventure. There will be no 401K, there will be no 8-5, there will be no mortgage... just adventure. I don't know where this place is going to be, but it's going to be great not being tied down to a job, house and things.

Work blows!

Realization

I just realized today that I have not been on a bicycle since the Dakota 5-0. Not one ride, not one peddle stroke, not, none, notta. I'm sad. I honestly have not had the time. I have the energy but seriously, where did the time go? There are times when the moon and earth are aligned and I can ride pretty much whenever, then there are times like these when nothing seems to fall my way. Oh well.

Angie is sick today. It makes me sad cuz I miss not having her at work. Plus I don't like it when people are sick because it's no fun.

I have nothing to say...

I think I'm going to drink a beer tonight. Yep, a beer for me...

The Night the Carpet Came.

Tonight, we look for carpet. There will be no biking, there will be no running and there certainly will be no outdoors. We will be searching for the perfect carpet which will finally deem our basement livable. Cheap carpet that is durable, looks nice and will last a while is what is on our minds. Something which will give Oli a place to fall over backwards while sipping on a bottle and not crack his skull open is what is in order. Oh, we'll find it. I'm not worried.

I have 2 offers on my bike. It will either be headed to MN or Virginia. I should know by tomorrow where it's going. Then I will have to round up a box and prepare it for shipping. Any ideas on what it costs to ship a bike. I'm guessing $35 or so but I really have no idea at all. I wonder if my fantastic local bike shop would help me out.

For Sale! 2006 Trek 1500 (Again)

I didn't get it sold last time. I had a few interested but then for some odd reason things went South and I ended up holding on to the bike for another year. It's time for it to go. I need the money to put carpet in the basement among other household items. Since I've recently added a couple other bikes to my collection that were all either 1. very inexpensive or 2. free, I have more bikes than I truly need or have time to ride. So, one has to go. I'd sell the others, but frankly, the one's I would sell are not worth anything to anyone... except me.

So, here are the details again. I've lowered the price for a quick sale. If you know anyone that is interested let me know or have them email me at dclements0@gmail.com. I can even work out slight travel arrangements if it's within a couple hours.

Excellent 2006 Trek 1500. It's been ridden a total of maybe 2,000 miles. All components are in excellent shape. Shifts well an stops well. It's a great bike for a beginner or ready to race. E-mail me at dclements0@gmail.com for more questions or photos.



$750 Or Best Offer...

FRAMESET
Sizes 58cm
Frame Alpha SLR Aluminum
Fork Bontrager, carbon

WHEELS
Wheels Bontrager Select
Tires Bontrager Race Lite, 700x25c

DRIVETRAIN
Shifters Shimano 105 STI, 9 speed
Front Derailleur Shimano 105
Rear Derailleur Shimano Ultegra
Crank Shimano 105 52/39/30
Cassette Shimano HG50 12-25, 9 speed
Pedals none

COMPONENTS
Saddle Bontrager Race Lux
Seat Post Bontrager Carbon
Handlebars Bontrager Select, 31.8mm
Stem Bontrager Select, 17 degree, 31.8mm
will also throw in an adjustable
Specialized stem that I have on it currently
Headset Aheadset w/semi-cartridge bearings, sealed, alloy
Brakeset Alloy dual pivot w/Shimano 105 STI levers

More pictures here...

1st Day - 2nd Job

Well, I'm officially not a farm kid anymore. I can surely tell after 4.5 hours of hauling, stacking, loading lumber that my work toughness I once had is officially gone. My last 6 years of sitting at a desk not doing much throughout the day has really worn on me. I feel like a piece today. My hands hurt, my feet hurt and I'm just all around worn out. I get to do it again tonight and tomorrow and the next day.

Life goes on I suppose. It will all change soon enough. Things will shape up and turn in the direction we want it to go. Sometimes things take a little blood, sweat and tears to get them where you want.

2nd Jobs

Well, I officially got myself a second job. Where you ask? Menards, that's where. We need to finish our basement after the big flood and we really don't have any extra money to do it. So, second job comes into play. I start tonight. I will be in the yard helping people load stuff. I know am the proud owner of a blue Menards vest, a knife, tin snips and a 25 foot tape measure.. and holders for each that I'll get to strap to my belt.

I'm not real excited about it, but heck, maybe it won't be too bad. Time will tell.

Coffee and kids

We get free Farmer's Brothers coffee here at work. I drink it although I think it is probably close to the worst coffee I've drank. It doesn't have the real coffee flavor. It's definitely coffee, but it tastes more like watered down, burnt coffee. You know the flavor. Yet, I drink it because it's free.

Oli is still not sleeping at night. Now he won't really eat much either. I think it's because of his little teeth trying to come in. I hope anyway. It's getting old too. I like to sleep. We go to bed shortly after Oli does (9:30 or so) and we struggle to get up at 6:00am. I'm sure it wouldn't be bad but there is a 2 hour time frame when he gets up in the middle of the night and we have to change his diaper and give him a bottle. Technically, we're not getting that much sleep.

Decision 2009

Thanks to all who posted on what I should train for next year. There was an overwhelming response of 1. all of them, don't be a pussy and 2. Leadville.

I would really like to do Leadville, and I think the best part of it is that I looked through the finishers for the last couple years and I have yet to find a person from South Dakota who has ridden in it. I am going to have to do some serious training to accomplish it, but I know it can be done. I think Leadville on a single speed would be pretty stellar. We'll see. I looked into registering and I think I have to do it by January 31 and it's going to cost me $240. Placement is not guaranteed so I might not even get to ride. We shall see. Heck, all those other races might even be good training for it, well, not since Leadville is before the others.

Hmmm, sounds like a plan. Let the training begin.

9 hours here we come!

Poll

Alright, I have time for a quick poll. What should I train for next summer?

- Sub 5 hour Dakota 50
- Leadville 100
- Mickelson Trail Marathon
- Laramie Enduro
- None of the above (drink beer, be happy)

I guess leave comments on what you think should be my priority for next summer.

five-O

I sucked a big fat pickle at the five-O this year. Right off the bat I knew I was in for a long day. The race starts at Spearfish Park and rolls up Tinton road for about 3 miles or so before getting to single track. It is a fairly healthy climb but nothing that is too strenuous. Except for the dreaded Sunday. I actually felt weak and tired about half way up the climb to start the single. Thoughts were rolling through my head about quitting and maybe even the slightest hope that the weakness would subside if I continued on. So, I tried and tried... My legs felt like lead and my stomach felt horrible. Each time I would take a sip of my water, a sick feeling would soon follow.

I finally made it to the first checkpoint which is about 10 miles in. I still didn't feel well and I really wanted to pack it up and head home, but I thought the bad feeling I had would go away if I kept on peddling. Well, it didn't at all! I pushed my bike up more hills than I think I ever had. Most hills I wouldn't even attempt, I'd hop off my bike at the base and just start pushing. There were even times on flats that I just didn't have the legs for.

I did make it to the finish line but not in a good time by any standards. I was hoping to get in the 6 hour mark for the first time, instead, I rolled in at a very unhealthy 8 hours 54ish minutes. It was even a worse time than 4 years ago when I fractured my collarbone and got stung by a bee. Then I came in at about 8:16. I'm very upset about the result and I will be back next year for some revenge on the course.

I was extremely surprised that a new course record was set. 3:40 was the time. INSANE!!! I have no idea how anyone could clock that kind of time. I'd really like to meet these folks who even ride under 5 hours and find out how they do it. What their training is like and how often they ride. It blows my mind. Congrats to them.

Tough days.

Oli is having a rough morning. He's learning to pull himself up on things which means he is getting more mobile. This morning, Oli found his way to the trash can in which he pulled over on himself creating a big mess and loud crash. It scared the crap out of the poor little guy. He screamed and cried for quite a while. Then, maybe ten minutes later he was all happy sitting on the floor clapping when he fell backwards and nailed his head on our wood floor. Again, he screamed for quite some time. Boy, with the luck he is having, and that Biking Brady fellow is having, I should make sure and keep them apart. I don't think two bad lucks make a right... whatever

Pre-Ride Ride

Last night a couple friends and I went for a little ride on M-hill and Skyline. I think we logged a little over 11 miles. I felt good for all but the first couple. It takes a while to get warmed up. I'm sure I am in need of new chainrings and a new cassette but I don't have time or money to put towards that right now. It makes me sad because I just put a new chain on and the chain is going to go to crap faster because of the crappy other stuff. You know.

The rest of the ride felt awesome. I really felt like the Energizer bunny. My legs just wanted to churn. Hopefully I'll be able to hold on like that for the 5-0. We will see.

I really do love Subway and Kona bikes!

Fix Up

I got the Kona all fixed up and ready for the 5-0. I put a new tire in the rear, a new chain and cleaned it all up. It looks pretty.

Oli didn't want to go to bed last night. It took until 10:45 before he finally went down. That's not so bad, unless he were to wake up at 4:45am. I feel pretty sluggish this morning. Ok, real sluggish.

I have a new item to play with at work. It is a Tandberg video conference system. You can record presentations, training, etc. I'm suppose to get it ready and give our Provost a demo later this week. It's pretty cool.

Week

Whoa, it's Friday already. This week went uber fast. I got a mtb ride in yesterday morning. My boss is gracious enough to let me come in late so I can ride. We rode part of the Victoria Lake loop. It was really pretty, fun, perfect weather and an all around awesome ride on my Coilair. I did have a few problems though. My chain was hopping all around so i did a few minor derailliur (sp) adjustments. I thought things were going alright until we came upon a huge hill that was about 1.5 miles long at a rather steep grade. I started climbing and about 1/2 way up the hill, snap, my chain broke right in half. I had my chain tool with and I fixed it there on the spot. However, I still had a small skip in the chain which eventually worked itself out. The rest of the ride went perfectly. We didn't get the entire 15 mile loop in as we really didn't know where the loop started or ended, so we jumped in the middle somewhere along a trail.

I'm not sure what the weekend has in store. I have a football draft on Sunday and hopefully some nice bike riding with the family. We might run up to the Mick trail and ride some of it. It'll be fun I'm sure!!!

I'm happy the weekend is finally here.

Gut Check 212

Here is a slightly short description of our accomplishment of completing the Gut Check 212.

Team Crank Brothers went at it again this year with pretty high expectations. I wanted to beat our time by at least 10 hours. I know it's a lofty goal, but I needed one to bring me back. Last year sucked. So I figured if we could ride it 10 hours faster than last year, we would only have to average about 16 mph over the course of the ride. Since we are a leap frog team, it should be more than doable.

I completely got side-tracked. We finished the race in 23 hours and 22 minutes. 13 hours faster than last year. We averaged over 18 mph. The weather was beautiful and couldn't have asked for anything more. I kept track of the mileage each of us rode and I went just over 110 miles. It was so much fun.

Now I am preparing for the Dakota 5-0 which is on the 31st of August.

Any of you heard of the Pickens Plan?

One More Day

Tomorrow we head out to the border for the Gut Check.

Today, I'm nervous.

Monday, I'll be tired.

Thanks to Biking Brady to help me with my table issue in the post below. I started to fix it, then realized how much I dislike ugly html so I stopped. What's better, ugly html or a pretty view on the outside? I pick pretty html and a nice presentation. I'll finish it, just not right now.

I Wish

I wish the post below didn't show up all funky. It would look so nice and pretty if it were aligned and spaced better. But, apparently blogger doesn't like tables. Maybe I should have used css. Who knows. That might make me even more nerdy though (Mr. Biking Brady)... I do wish it looked better.

I have to get everything ready for the Gut Check tonight. Our team is then shopping tomorrow night for fruit, water, food, etc. Then we'll head out on Friday at about noon for the border. I'm dreading it a little bit but then another part of me is pretty excited. I dread the pain and missery (even though it won't be that bad because I'll only have to ride an hour at a time.

This year I am keeping track of my total time in the saddle and my total mileage. I want to know how far I rode since I am on a leap frog team. I'll post all that stuff when I get back.

Gut Check 212

The time is winding down to the gut check. My team is about as prepared as we are going to be. We are going to get food and supplies Thursday after work then Friday it's off to Belle Fouche to do this. I figured out some things today. I have been very curious about what time we would finish if we averaged such and such speed. This is what I came up with.

Hours Arival Time Average Speed 23 1 pm Saturday 18.00 24 2 pm 17.25 25 3 pm 16.56 26 4 pm 15.92 27 5 pm 15.33 28 6 pm 14.79 29 7 pm 14.28 30 8 pm 13.80 31 9 pm 13.35 32 10 pm 12.94 33 11 pm 12.55 34 12 am Sunday 12.18 35 1 am 11.83 36 2 am 11.50 And some other stuff to Faith 113 miles ave speed hours 18 6.28 7 6.65 16 7.06 15 7.53 14 8.07 Faith to Gettysburg 112 miles ave speed hours 18 6.22 6.59 16 7.00 15 7.47 14 8.00 Gettysburg to Redfield 83 miles ave speed hours 18 4.61 17 4.88 16 5.19 15 5.53 14 5.93 Redfield to Border 106 miles ave speed hours 18 5.89 17 6.24 16 6.63 15 7.06 14 7.57

Thursday

I can't believe it has already been 4 days since my last post. So much has happened. I've taken Oli for his first and second bike ride, I still have not mowed the lawn, Angie cut her hair and the bike rally is in full swing. I haven't ridden much this week. Angie has had to work late Monday and last night and the rally makes things not quite so fun getting around. I think I did do my favorite ride last night and Monday night. I got Oli on a kid carrier on the bike and he loves it! A lot!!! He's such a good kid.

That's all. I want to go for a ride with him now. shoot.

Healthy

A Harvard study found that after a 12-week program of strength training, almost 90% of seriously depressed seniors no longer met the criteria for clinical depression. So lift your spirits by lifting weights! Bike riding for at least 20 minutes can also boost your body's natural levels of anandamide which can contribute to feelings of euphoria like those described by long-distance runners and cyclists. Penn State and Harvard researchers found that fitness predicts happiness better than finances. So get moving and get happy!!! Forget the bad day you had.

http://www.healthysd.gov/Workplace.html

No Ride

I didn't get a chance to ride at all this weekend. I went back to Miller to help my parents harvest wheat. I brought the bike along but after a 12-14 hour day of combining, sitting in the saddle for a couple hours didn't feel very appealing. So, I practiced hauling my bike around. I told Angie to drop me off about 40 miles before my parent's and I would ride... she didn't.

I guess I did go down to the dirt jump park for an hour or so last night. I'm just learning how to jump. The new geometry of my Coilair makes it much easier although I'm still pretty bad. I wasn't scared at all which is a huge improvement even though I was still on the beginner jumps. At least I've moved up from the rollers.

I also finished my singlespeed. I put new break levers, break cables and grips. Angie and I bought a kid carrier for Oli and I also installed that last night. Depending upon the weather, I might see if Oli likes it tonight. I'll get to ride the singlespeed for its first voyage in at least 2 years. I'm pretty excited!

Pinch Me.

I have an interesting problem lingering over me this year. I have had more problems with flat tires on my mountain bikes than I ever had before. It is driving me insane. I'm not sure if I am not running enough pressure, if my tires or shot, or if I just suck bad enough at riding that the tires decide to fail. Each time gets me a little more frustrated. I do realize that the more I ride, the better of a chance I have for a flat, and I have ridden alot. Come on though, I'm tired of flat tires. I got a flat right when I got to work today. And now, I'm fixing it... again.

What I'm in need for is a killer deal on some tubes. Then I can buy 100 tubes and will never have to patch another tire for a month or so.

Getting Ready

I'm on a mission to do better this year in the Dakota 5-0. I made the mistake of buying a different, heavier bike before the race but if I spend enough time peddling, I should do alright. So, for the last 2 mornings I have gotten up early and went for about an hour ride. I push myself pretty hard and try to do plenty of climbing. Yesterday I rode on Skyline which is not alot of tough climbing, but plenty of rolling peddle sections. Today, I went on M-hill where there is about 1000 feet of pure climbing and then down. I would say between the two days I have about 20 miles of pure mountain biking.

I was going to ride to work, but Angie and Oli convinced me otherwise. Oli is just so darn cute and I like to see him off in the morning. Tomorrow, I will be riding to work. More bike time.

I really need to figure out how to get more bike time without sacrificing family time.

First Ride

I went for the first ride of my new/used Coilair this morning. It was really everything I had hoped it would be. I do need to set up the suspension a little better. It's pretty tight for my taste. I'd like it to be a little more plush. But, it cornered well, climbed relatively well for a 40 pound bike and it just felt dang nice. I wish I could ride it on the Gut Check. My teammates would probably kill me for being so slow.

I was very surprised last night when I got to the bike shop to start exchanging parts. The guy (Kelly) who I am bought the bike from also bought a new Stinky and a new Dawg Delux. I thought he was going to buy the Stinky frame and move everything from his Coilair to his Stinky. Well, to my delight, this wasn't the case. He purchased it fully loaded. However, he only bought the Dawg frame but in the end, he decided to upgrade many of those parts. So basically, I got a crank, bottom bracket, seat post, front wheel with a 20mm thru axle, and a kick ass fork for the same price as just the frame. That made me very very happy as I wanted to upgrade the fork and front wheel anyway, and now I don't have to.

It is a great bike. I can tell my legs are a bit tired from peddling, but I haven't been able to ride in about 6 days so it's hard to stay in shape with such sporadic riding. I think morning rides are in order.

Oh, one last note, the Rapid City dirt jump park has it's ribbon cutting tonight. I think Oli and I will go check it out.

Konaworld

It's official. I am going to be replacing my old Kona Dawg frame with an old Kona Coilair frame. I'm pretty excited about it. I like the geometry much better on the Coilair than the Dawg. Don't get me wrong, I really like the Dawg, but I think I will like the Coilair better. Plus, it's a far sexier color... green!

Here is a picture from konaworld



It's definatly not going to have the same parts as I'm taking all off the Dawg to put on the Coilair. But, it'll be a nice change.

Doing it tonight.

Oh, and Oli is getting his second tooth. That kid is growing up so fast. It makes me a little bit sad.

Weekend

My weekend was full. Angie's brother and family was out camping, Angie had a bridal shower and bachelorette party and there was cleaning to do. Friday we both took half of a day off work so we could meet her brother and we could clean up the house. Angie's festivities were to be at our house so it needed to be presentable. Saturday morning Oli and I sat and watched the time-trial in the tour. It was great... then we proceeded on to Sturgis to meet Angie's brother and family. Then what, hmmm drew a blank.

Sunday we bought a kid carrier that attaches to the bike. I thought Oli would be big enough by now but I think he may need a couple more months. I need to find him a smaller helmet I guess. I really want to get him going on that though. So, since we couldn't bike, I put him in the baby backpack and we went for a hike on Skyline. It was hot, but nice.

I have some freelance work I need to do.

Oh, I may have purchased a new bike frame. 2006 Kona Coilair. I am going to take all the parts off my Dawg and put them on the Coilair, then sell my Dawg. The dude who I am possibly buying it from will allow me to sell my frame even while I will already have the other in my possession. I hope it works out.

That's it for now.

Tagged

I wasn't exactly tagged, but I read a blog everyday "Fat Cyclist" and he said if you want to be tagged, so be it. So I am taking his questions he made up about cycling and I will answer them to the best of my ability. I then will choose 3 random bloggers to be tagged as well. They then have to post on their blog, otherwise they're fingers will turn to worms.

If you could have any one — and only one — bike in the world, what would it be? I would say right now it would be my old yet newly converted single-speed Schwinn Moab. 1997 model. It is and has been a great bike with nearly 0 problems. I have upgraded nearly nothing and it cruises along the road just as nicely as the dirt. It looks sleek and nimble, like me!

Do you already have that coveted dream bike? If so, is it everything you hoped it would be? If not, are you working toward getting it? If you’re not working toward getting it, why not? I would say that I do have the dream bike. Although, I can't say for certain that it will always be my dream bike. In a way, I like all of my bikes and I always want more bikes. Mainly because each has it's own individual characteristics that I enjoy. Some are fat and heavy and go slow and others are very lightweight and quick. It all depends upon my mood.

If you had to choose one — and only one — bike route to do every day for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why? I would definitely say the Centennial Trail in the Black Hills. It is over 112 miles of single track and it differs greatly from the Northern hills to the Southern. It would be the perfect variety of lazy singletrack to the most demanding technical riding. And I could do it every day.

What kind of sick person would force another person to ride one and only one bike ride to to do for the rest of her / his life? I'm not sure, but it's a great question and I feel I've come up with the perfect answer.

Do you ride both road and mountain bikes? If both, which do you prefer and why? If only one or the other, why are you so narrowminded? I do ride both. I enjoy mountain biking more because it's better with friends. I enjoy it more because there is more scenery and you end up going where very few people usually go. My road riding usually consists of lunchtime rides when I can't go ride the mountain bike.

Have you ever ridden a recumbent? If so, why? If not, describe the circumstances under which you would ride a recumbent. I have never ridden a recumbent. I really can't say I want to either.

Have you ever raced a triathlon? If so, have you also ever tried strangling yourself with dental floss? Nope, but I want to.

Suppose you were forced to either give up ice cream or bicycles for the rest of your life. Which would you give up, and why? I would have to say ice cream. I think about bicycles every day. I only think about ice cream every other day. I can't sit and look at ice cream and wish I was ridding it, but I can do that with bikes.

What is a question you think this questionnaire should have asked, but has not? Also, answer it. What size of shoes do you wear? 13 US or 47 or 48 European

You’re riding your bike in the wilderness (if you’re a roadie, you’re on a road, but otherwise the surroundings are quite wilderness-like) and you see a bear. The bear sees you. What do you do? I freeze.

Now, tag three biking bloggers. List them below. I don't even know if anyone reads this blog. But, what the hell.

Biking Brady
Snakebite
Minuscar

Run Ride

I went for a ride yesterday while my friend ran. We went up M-hill and we went up the side I usually come down. It is very steep and very rocky. Needless to say he beat me to the top pretty easily. I think he was averaging 7:15 miles where I wasn't anywhere near that going up. It actually made me a little sad to think that I am so far out of shape that I can't climb better than that. I actually thought my fitness was coming around. All that means is that I have to step it up in training here for the next few weeks. More climbing and push harder when I do it. Right now I fall into a comfort zone and I don't push too hard nor not enough. But it is just the right amount so I won't get any faster or better. It was good that I went with him cuz now I know.

I must push on.

Longish

I went for a relatively long ride today over lunch. 34 miles. I know to some of you that is nothing, but i actually think I only have 1 other ride this year that is over 30 miles. So, it's a pretty big deal to me. The worst part is, I felt like crap for the last 10 miles. There are many factors. 1. I only ate a little bit of oatmeal for breakfast 2. it was 90 degrees 3. It was my second ride over 30 miles 4. My water was about 90 degrees as well so it wasn't real quenching.

Those are my excuses and I'm sticking to them. I realize I am out of shape as well, but I thought I would feel better than that. It's only 30 miles for crying out loud.

On another note, my weight loss is still going well. I was 185 this morning which brings my average down to 185 for the last week and a half. I should be close to 179 by the weekend if I play my cards right, and if I stay on the bike everyday this week and get some exercise.

I'm heading back to Miller this weekend to help my parents combine wheat. I know I should be able to get a 60 mile ride in before work. It'll be fun. I've never ridden there and there is a perfect 60 mile loop. I'm pretty excited about it.

Shorty

I don't have much to comment on today. I am down to 183 lbs this morning. I feel pretty good about that. Now my main challenge will be to keep it up during the weekend. We had to have 2 new tires put on the front of our car today. They were in really bad shape. We haven't been able to drive it for 2 days because one of the tires was flat and I didn't have the ambition to get it fixed. Today I finally did. I wish we didn't need a car or a pickup. We could go with out the pickup but we'd need a vehicle of some sort.

I'm rambling. I'm ready for the weekend. Hopefully I will get one long ride in. 50 miles or so would be swell!

Have a great weekend.

Single Speed World

Oli got me a gift certificate to my LBS for single speed parts for father's day. I went there a couple of times and they finally figured that they will have to order me the conversion kit for the freewheel. It came in 2 days ago and Angie and i went and picked it up yesterday. I got it all put together last night and made a little cruise with it. I know I need to change the gearing. Right now I am running a 32x18 which is pretty tough for mountain riding. It wouldn't make a bad city cruiser but that really isn't my intension. I need to get a 30x20 or 30x22 for the hills out here. I also need new breaks (the whole shebang) and I need some handle bar grips. Then it'll be ready to roll.

I'm really pretty excited about it. I've been wanting to try the single speed thing for quite a while but never had the opportunity. Not many people ride single... I only know of a handful.

I need to take some pictures so everyone can see my creation. I would like to strip the frame down and have it powder coated a green color but I'm not sure if it's really worth it.

A friend and I are doing the Catron, Sheridan Lake Road, Skyline loop again today over lunch. It should be a good time and a nice workout.

Weather

I didn't ride M-hill yesterday. That trip has been postponed until Friday. Instead I rode a little loop that incorporated both downhill road skills and some serious uphill mountain bike skills. I left work, got on Catron and rode down the hill to Sheridan Lake Road, then I rode to the cemetery and turned on Floorman where I could meet up with the Skyline wilderness trail system. I can tell that it doesn't get much use in the summer because it was really overgrown in spots. I almost lost the trail. It is a very tough climb at the beginning then it switchbacks the rest of the way up the hill. I think it's a little over 1000 feet of vertical climbing by the time I get to the top. It ended up being a 10.2 mile ride. I'm not sure how long it took, I would guess about an hour or so.

I still need to do some more maintenance on the Dawg. I realized that the rear derailleur is shifting kinda sucky. But I did put more air in my front shock which helped out alot.

Dawg

My Dawg (Kona) is in dire need of some tender loving care. I'm pretty sure it needs a new chain and if not a chain right now, it needs to be lubed. The front fork needs some air, the front wheels needs to be trued (or replaced). I actually bought a wheel off ebay for $15 that I need rim tape for. The brakes need some help, possibly even new pads. I'd like to clean and re-grease the headset and bottom bracket. I could use some new grips and I need to change the peddles and put on the clipless ones again.

My road bike is pretty much ready to go for the Gut Check though. I might do some minor maintenance to it but nothing serious. It doesn't get nearly the abuse as the mountain bike so everything seems to last a bit longer.

I'm riding M-hill today. Should be good climbing practice and good heat stroke weather.

Back in the Saddle

Wagner was tons of fun. There was no bike riding at all. I did repair a bike for my nephew which made me very happy. It was an easy fix. We hung out at the river, we ate food and we had a merry time.

Today begins a new quest for myself. It's really nothing new, but something I want to do before the Gut Check and before the Dakota 5-0. Since I've heard that losing 2 pounds per week is the most healthy way, that is what I plan to do. I have 5 weeks until the Gut Check and I think 7 until the 5-0. I hover around 186 right now. (Although I weighed 191 this morning) So, my goal is to lose 2 pounds per week which will put me at 176 for the Gut check and about 172 for the 5-0. It is my goal and I will meet it. I know losing weight isn't a great idea when training but I figure that if I eat right and get my exercise in, I should be able to lose the weight pretty easy.

I'm excited.

More stuff

Today is now the day the NAU web site will go live. Probably within the next couple hours. There are many changes left to be done, but it is a dramatic improvement.

We are heading to Wagner still. It's extremely windy out so I do not think I will be riding the motorcycle. I would now really like to take my bicycle so I can get some riding in. Even if it's just one ride. I guess Sunday evening 2 of my teammates will be setting out for a 25 mile ride. Hopefully I can join in but it all depends upon the time we return.

I'm very frustrated with the online Tour de France coverage this year. I'm looking for online video and it's difficult to find something. Especially in English. If anyone who reads this crappy blog knows of a live streaming video source for TdF coverage, let me know.

New Happenings

I'm pretty sure Oli has the crawling thing figured out. He is just starting to make forward progress. It is so wonderful watching him grow and become more and more "human".

I signed up for the Gut Check today. We are having another leap frog team this year. It consists of 4 people instead of 5 like last year. I really would like to do it solo, but I haven't had nearly enough training time to go at it, so I opted to join my fellows for another team try. I also need to sign up for the Dakota 5-0 as well.

Another new item on the list is the NAU Web site will be changing either today or tomorrow. I have been working non-stop on the new site since May and it was on hold for about 6 months, so after almost a year, it will finally come to fruition. I'm excited and very nervous as well. I have many new responsibilities regarding the site and it has been called "my baby" by our network administrator. So, I guess if something happens to it, it's my fault. Also, once it goes public, everyone will know about it if something goes wrong and it will be my door they beat down.

We're heading to Wagner this weekend for Angie's family reunion. I am riding the motorcycle and Angie, her sister and the 2 kids will be in our car. I would love to take the bicycle but there is just not enough room and I haven't the money to finish the roof rack on top. If anyone out there has any bicycle mounts for a Yakima rack that they want to sell, let me know. It should be nice weekend of hanging at the river, eating food and enjoying good company.

I will do better at posting.

Go Garmin Chipotle!

4th

The wife and I took off this week so we could be home with Oli. We have no daycare so we thought this was the best. A little mini vacation.

I have gone for a mtn ride 2 days in a row. Skyline yesterday and the new Buzzard's Roost today. So fun! I love bicycles. You see new adventures, ride nice trail, spend time in the woods and getting some movement.

I've been lacking in my postings quite a bit. Forgive me, I've been spending little time on the computer. I'll try and get back to a more regular schedule next week.

On another note, I'm pretty sure I'm up for a new challenge next year. I'm going to sign up for the Leadville 100 (100 mile mountain bike race in Colorado). Angie gave me authorization to do it. I'll need to drop a few pounds and get in much better shape. I'm sure I can do it, I just wonder how fast I'll be able to. It's a random draw so there is no guarantee that I will get in. I can only hope. If not, I might have to try something else.

Technical Times

If I had a newspaper, that's what it would be called, "The Technical Times". Yeah, I like the ring of that. I bring up technical times for a few different points:

1. Now that I am officially an IT guy, I consider it the logical choice. I am becoming more technical all the time. Hopefully one of these days when I get a couple large projects done, I will gracefully be able to make the jump to programmer too.

2. I went for a mountain bike ride on Sunday evening and I am becoming a far better technical rider than I ever have been. I suppose it is because I spend alot of my time riding with yahoos who like to go downhill as fast as possible with no matter to what is in front of them. I usually find myself slowly creeping behind. However, the last few rides I have been on, no matter what the terrain, I have been actually pushing myself to go faster down the hill and through technical sections. I tell you, carrying a little extra speed and peddling does make a difference. Granted, I am by no means a freerider or downhill guy, I like to classify myself in the "All Mountain" category. I can pedal all day, or I can cruise downhill and do some low level drops and such. Although they scare the crap out of me. Mainly because I made a trip to the ER last year from going off a drop head first.

My 10 year class reunion is over the 4th of July. I have to say that I'm a bit nervous for it. I haven't seen 98% of the people since I graduated. The others are mainly through e-mail. My biggest fear, forgetting their name.

Saddle

Does anyone out there want a Bontrager Saddle? I'll sell it, cheap. There is nothing wrong with it. It is 2 years old, no scratches or cuts or scrapes. I just don't like it. Either my butt goes numb or part of my leg or something else. I've been doing some research and it sounds like my saddle is to blame. So, I want to try a different one.

This is a link to the stock bike on the Trek site

http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/2006/archive/1500

Bontrager Race Lux is the name of the saddle.


On another note, I went for a lunch time ride. It is so nice out. A little humid but nice. I rode 17.7 miles in 1 hour and 2 minutes. I felt really good until I was almost back and sweat started dripping into my eye. I damn near went blind. It still burns a little bit.

I love spring... or is this summer? maybe fall??? who knows, but I love it!

Mountain Bike Mania

The title may be a little out there. There is really no mainia going on anywhere. A friend and I are getting together for a knobby ride tomorrow. He just got a Gary Fisher full squishy 29er. I'm glad he's full squish now. He'll like it. I actually wish I had a hardtail again sometimes. I guess it depends upon the ride.

Check out this blog. You should read this and then donate to the cause. It's a great cause and you could possibly win a sweet ride. Do IT!

On another note, the Tour de Dakota is happening this week. My brother-in-law called me to chew me out. I'm not even on the ride but he found it necessary to call me anyway. He was hauling grain with a semi somewhere along the route. He said that there were about 150 cyclists ridding 4 wide on the highway. None would move over and he had a very difficult time trying to get by. Mind you this is an 80,000 pound vehicle. Our goal as cyclists it to promote safety, share the road and create a bicycle friendly atmosphere. Now seriously, this is not going to happen if we cyclists take advantage of the situation. It's only going to piss drivers off and we will never have a bicycle friendly state. I was not there, nor do I know what really happened. I'm just saying if we can get mad at cars for not sharing the road, why can't drivers be upset when we don't do the same. Riding 4 wide on any highway is not sharing the road.

Share the road people. Cyclists, walkers, runners and cars. That is the goal.

Pooped

I'm still a bit sluggish after my run the other day. I also went for a lunch ride yesterday and felt sluggish on it too. Considering all the climbing I had to do, my average speed wasn't too bad. I think it was somewhere around 14.8 ave/mph, 21.6 miles and 2633.6 feet of climbing. My legs are feeling it today.

Impressive

On the way out to daycare we saw 4 people on bicycles. I know at least 2 of those people were riding to work. The other 2 may have been on a training ride. I was in a car driving to daycare.

I took the dog for a run last night after the rain stopped. I can't believe how out of running shape I am in. I know I haven't run much, but I thought the time I've spent on a bike would show a little bit. My quads and shins are feeling the most pain today. My cardiovascular system was alright, it was the legs.

I gave blood last week and I received my cholesterol results. 226. It says that it is in the almost high category. They also say that it is not an accurate test because they allow you to eat and drink before you give blood. If it were an actual test, the doctors want you to fast for 12 hours before hand. So, I really do not know what it means.

Weekend

This weekend was very nice, little rain and alot of work was done. First off we were doggy sitting a friend's dog. Our dog is now very sad and mopes around with sad ears.

Saturday we went out and mowed my parents lawn by Nemo. Sunday we did some major cleaning, laundry, unplugged gutters, fixed downspouts, worked on the slope next to the foundation, checked where the water runs and mowed our lawn. Hopefully all these changes will help out our water situation that happens every time it rains. If not, I guess we'll have to figure something else out.

When I took our friend's dog home, I put a leash on him and loaded his food canister up in my bike trailer and took him home (on a bicycle). Then I had to run back home and get his kennel which I loaded in the bike trailer. It was so fun to carry things on a bike.

Rain

Rain Rain Rain!

It has rained nearly every day here since, well, I can't remember. It makes it difficult to get out on the bike and ride. I don't have any problem with riding in the rain except that I don't want to tear up the mt bike trails and I really don't have any gear for the road bike. Rain riding is a real problem for me. I actually think it would be fun.

Angie comes home today. She has been in Atlanta since Sunday for a conference for work. Our little boy misses his mommy and so does daddy.

I have been able to ride the rollers at night after Oli goes to sleep. I usually get about a half hour workout in before I decide that I should really get some sleep.

Did I mention that it's raining? I look out my window and watch the rain come down. I believe we are in a flood warning. Hopefully Angie will be able to fly in.

Spring Rain

I love the rainy season. It might be because we really haven't had a rainy season for quite some time. The last few days have been dark, dreary and drizzly. I love it. Despite of the weather, Oli and I went out for a hike. I put him in a baby backpack and off we went. We have trails minutes from our house so that's where we went. I took the dog and she was the happiest I have ever seen her. As soon as I let her off the leash, she took off up the trail and turned around. Her face was priceless. I have a picture but forgot the camera. I'll post it tomorrow.

The trail was absolutely beautiful. The greens were very green, the stream was flowing and the air smelled so fresh. That is why I love the rain. It cleans everything. It smelled just like a brand new world.

Normally I wouldn't go for a hike. I ride bicycles. Angie had to work late and I needed some outdoor activity and I was being a single dad for the evening. That's why I chose a hike. I have to tell you, it was so nice to see that trail from a different perspective. I even found a loop that I would have never seen if I was on a bike. The scenery was amazing.

The lesson for today - slow down and look around you sometime. You will notice things you have never seen before.

Fat Tire Festival

The cross country race I signed up for was delayed one day due to rain. It's good because our basement flooded and created all sorts of havoc. We spent the entire day Saturday cleaning up, mopping up and vacuuming up water. We took out all of the carpet so things would dry more quickly. I think our flooding was caused by a faulty sump pump. Such is life.

The race ended up on Sunday. 10 miles, 1 1/2 loops around M-hill. Lots of climbing and techie single track. I didn't place very well but I wasn't really there to race. I was there to pay money, ride my bike and enjoy the day. I did each one of those things. I did push myself on the climbs and my quads are feeling it today. I love it! My quads haven't hurt this bad for a while.

Not much else is happening.

New Position

Well, I just accepted a new position here at NAU. I was the Creative Director at Aurora Creative which is the in-house agency for NAU. I am now going to be the Application Developer in the Information Technology department. Basically I will be in charge of all things Website related. I'm pretty excited about it. It's a good move for me professionally as I will be able to learn some new skills, get access to things I didn't have and I will get paid a little bit more. I will have to move offices but it will only be about 15 feet. The IT department is moving down close to where I am at so I will have to haul my things 1 office space difference. That's nice.

It's rainy and foggy today. It's kind of a bad start to the Fat Tire Festival. Hopefully things will get better.

Argh!

I'm back and in action. Things are moving so quickly now days. Oliver is getting teeth. He's a cranky little dude. Bike season is in full swing. The dirt jump park is to be completed by this weekend. The Fat Tire Festival is this weekend and we have tons of family coming out. I will partake in at least one ride though. Things are busy.

I went and rode the skyline trails last night behind our house. I was a little unsure of my mt bike handling skills but I still rode hard for about an hour. I was impressed with my fitness as I have been off the bike for a while due to traveling. The Dawg (mt bike) needs a little love though. Shifting was a little off and my headset needs some work. The handlebars turned a little sticky. I guess I'm going to need to get some grease and lube it up a bit.

No pictures today...

Craziness.

Well I've been a bit absent. Things have been crazy busy around here. I had a funeral I went to Wednesday. We left Tuesday and returned Wednesday night. Then I am going to Las Vegas for 4 nights for a Microsoft Sharepoint conference. Work has kept me plenty busy trying to catch up and get things finished before I jet set out of here. I finally have things at work wrapped up so now I need to run to the bank and pack. Then get a mother's day card for my wife and maybe a gift and then...

Wow, I like doing things and going places. When I feel like I am never home and don't have time to accomplish things that I want to accomplish, it makes me grumpy. I'm starting to get that way. I'm living off other people's schedule, not my own.

I'll try and post some pictures and things while I'm there.

I'd like to bike too while I'm there but the way it sounds, riding on the strip is horrendous and getting anywhere else to ride is about a 15 mile cab ride. Including getting to a shop where I could rent a bike. I'll see though. I might be able to figure something out.

Quote of the Day

From Bike Snob NYC -

"I too have learned volumes about myself from riding. For example, by mountain biking I’ve learned from my tendency to ride around obstacles instead of over them and from my technique of stopping, dismounting, and visually inspecting drop-offs before riding off of them that I am both lazy and cowardly. I’ve also learned by being dropped from races and rides of all kinds that I don’t like it when things get difficult, and that no matter what you’re doing you can always quit. And that is a beautiful lesson. Knowing that life itself is optional is the key to getting through it."

Ride Report

Over lunch today I went for a nice little jaunt. I rode the Heart Ranch loop again only this time I mixed in some 1 minute 30 second sprints. I'd have to say that I nearly died. I honestly almost threw up twice. The wind was blowing right into my face and I was pedaling as hard as I possibly could. I tell you what, it made the trip back rather easy. So, I took a few pictures.











And on another note. I have a new goal for next year. A triathalon. I have done a marathon, a century, a ride across South Dakota (with team mates), however, I can't swim. So, I'll have to figure out how to accomplish that task.

The triathalon I would like to do is an Xterra event at Iron Creek lake. It is an off road triathalon consisting of a 1K swim, 22K bike and an 8K run. I'm trying to get my wife talked into doing it as well but she's a little hesitant. I think it's going to be a goal for me!

http://icort.com/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1

http://www.xterraplanet.com/index.cfm

Last Summer

Last summer I cut my eyebrow open on a rock when i fell off a ledge while mt biking. I was even wearing a full face helmet. Here is a video of my injury. I'm all healed and better now.

Video Day

Here is a video I put together about 2 years ago. Some co-workers and I put it together to prove that we could do video for our boss. I did all the shooting and editing and the girls were the actors. I just wanted to share because it's fun and I like it.

April 23 Ride

1h 15min
21 miles
1018 kilocalories burned
1900+ feet of climbing
141 ave heart rate
16.8 ave mph

Question for you American cyclists. Do you use the standard or metric distances when talking the talk? For me it depends on if I'm talking about a race or my ride. My rides are in miles because that's what I know and love, however, races are in kilometers and that's how I talk.

Just curious.

So, I might have ridden
33.8Km