Wrench Out

Cross Season Is Back!

2011-09-26T13:50:00.002-04:00

Tacchino Tandem Cross from In The Crosshairs on Vimeo.

2011 Michaux Maximus

2011-05-02T07:16:00.001-04:00

2011 Maximus 20 Miler by wrench177 at Garmin Connect - Details

Runaway Cow

2011-02-07T09:41:00.001-05:00

runaway cow
Originally uploaded by dkeg

Came around a corner to find this bovine hanging out in the middle of the road. She got spooked and made a run for the herd. David got this shot of me in pursuit trying to get my camera out. Just another experience when your on a DKEG adventure ride.

2010-11-29T16:29:00.003-05:00

Somehow, I missed the turn on my way back from NJ and never found this track. I'll find it and ride it next time for sure.

Taneytown CX, the Turkey Chase

2010-11-29T15:08:00.003-05:00

The MABRA cross series came to an end at the Turkey Chase in Taneytown this past Sunday. I was glad I signed up for the race this year and even happier once I rode the course. It was a lot of fun.

Hosted by TEAM Fuji at the Taneytown Memorial Park, the venue made use of every square inch of the park and then some. The pancake flat terrain was very deceiving and the course designers threw in a number of twists, turns, off-camber hills and one run-up to keep us on our toes and working hard around the entire course. This was another race that didn't cater to any particular style of rider and had something for everyone. The dry weather limited the amount of mud we encountered, but, there was more of it here than at any other venue I've visited this season. Sadly, we won't have an epic cross race like the one we had at the Capitol Classic last year. Mud, snow and ice were not on tap and we raced under sunny skies and brisk Autumn temperatures.

Call-ups moved a few guys forward and the rest of us back a little. The pack was dense, but, I picked the outside line and that helped as we went into the first set of turns. I was on the right side (lower line) of the first off-camber hill and that helped move me ahead of some guys that tried to stay high. An inside line got me to the next section in good position and I picked through the crowd when the opportunity presented itself. The main group got strung out pretty quickly and it was hard to ride most sections in a pack. Single file through the tight turns, jump on the gas and pass before the next turn. There were a few open power sections to pass or get passed and I tried to limit any losses in these areas. I'd close down the gaps when the course became technical and hoped the guy in front would crack or bobble. I was running 15th on the second lap and was at the tail end of the lead pack. The second pack was about 10-15 seconds back from us and loosing ground as the race progressed.

On the third lap a rider took a bad line, went into the fence and took out the two guys behind him. I tried to sneak by on the inside line and got knocked down as one of the riders picked his way out of the mess. Everyone recovered quickly and I moved up a couple spots in the process. The lead rider slid out at the bottom of the off-camber run-up and I had to lock my brakes to keep from running into him. That sent me down and into the tape. We both recovered (again) and got to work on the next technical section before the road section and the timing table. We both gunned it on the road and were jockeying for position on the bell lap. He held his lead and I held his wheel. I managed to pass on the back side of the warehouses and he puled ahead near the ball fields. It was a good battle. We opened the gap on the chase group and had a few guys within striking distance ahead. Bill was one of these guys and he lost a few spots in some altercation a little earlier as well. They caught wind of our challenge, kicked it into high gear and effectively shut down our attack. Crossing the line, I was 11th overall for the Masters B race and 5th (again) for my age group. The top 3 overall finishers were in the 45+ age group as well. There are some pretty damn fast old(er) guys at these races.

Like Rockburn, I had a LOT of time to kill before the tandem race at 4pm. I passed the time the same way I did 2 weeks ago with a couple beers, talking with friends and taking some pics of the other races. Cyber Monday seems to be slowing down the internet, so, I'll post those pics a little later. The extra time did give me a chance to re-dish & true the rear wheel on the tandem, adjust the brakes, tension the timing chain and give her a proper look-over. The borrowed C'Dale was ready for her final cross race of 2010, possibly forever.

David was not at the morning race. He decided to sleep in and met me for the tandem race late in the afternoon. That meant my stoker would have fresh legs for our challenge against Padam, the reigning tandem masters. We rode around to warm the legs while the Elite guys raced. There were a lot of tandems rolling around the park and it appeared there would be some kids out there as stokers. A very cool thing to see. We lined up on the front row and were a little bummed to see the Kelly team of Connolly-Shiao (KBS/LSV) missing from the race. However, the Tom Tom club was there as was the AFC team of Blair-Driscoll. We got the hole shot and actually held the lead a little longer this time. As expected (I am a realist) Padam passed us and we went into chase mode. We were able to keep the gap a little smaller this time and even closed it a few times during the race. At one point we were right on their wheel with only a few turns left in the race. I can only assume they were toying with us, because they blew our doors off once we hit the road on the bell lap. The Tom Tom club was slowly moving up on us throughout the race and at one point I was concerned we didn't have enough course left to counter their advance. Once we hit the technical sections, we were able to put those fears to rest and could focus all our attention on the leaders. As we crossed the line, we looked back to see how far back the Tom Tom team was. Oddly, they were not behind us. One of the teams with a junior rider was in the third position, followed by another team with a junior rider. Off in the distance, we could see the Tom's stoker off the bike and pushing, as he has done in several other races. Mechanicals have plagued them throughout the series and kept them off the podium once again. However, this being tandem cross, everyone is a winner and they scored a nice bag of premium coffee beans. We got a water bottle. I guess we'll have to assign alternating weeks to share it. Hmmm........

Rockburn Cross

2010-11-22T00:13:00.006-05:00

Another weekend of double dipping and the dipping was good. Took the kids up to Chambersburg and rode the pump track with Larry and Oliver on Saturday. Then, spent Sunday in Howard County on skinny tires riding around in circles.

I'll get to the pump track session tomorrow, maybe. Right now I'd better focus on Rockburn while it's still somewhat fresh in my mind. David and I strolled up to Rockburn for the second day of the HoCo 2x CX races. Schooley Mill was on Saturday and while registered, I couldn't race. So, I double dipped (again) on Sunday and did the Masters B race at 10am and then the Tandumb race with DKEG at 4pm. It's a hellava long wait between the two races, but, it was worth it. Early registration got me on the 3rd row of the Masters B race (3/4 35+&45+) and in a great starting position. It was a pretty full race with a lot of guys fighting hard for position. I went off fast and hoped to get into a lead pack early in the race. The competition was tough and everyone else had the same idea. We went up the road section in a fairly large group, guys were rubbing elbows and jockeying for position all the way around the first half of the course. One guy tried to force an inside pass and he went into the tape when I held my line. Another guy tried to force a pass and we locked handlebars for a moment. My front wheel came off the ground and I thought I was a goner. The bikes unlocked and we kept riding only to be sent into a pole and the tape 100 yards further up. I went down that time and lost a couple spots. We were maybe half way around the first lap. It was going to be a physical race to be sure.

I ran through the sand pit and made up a spot on the inside corner. My transition was smooth and I was back up to speed quickly. A little straight-a-way and a hard left into the single track. Some roots on the high speed turns meant you had to check your speed, but, I was able to carry momentum and open up some gaps in this area. The little climbs hurt me a bit and the geared riders were able to make up ground in these areas. Still, the legs felt good and I kept the intensity as high as possible. By the time the second lap rolled around the field had spread out and you could ride your race without too much interference. I really enjoyed the course this year. Last year I liked it, but, being new to cross I don't think I rode it well. Hell, I KNOW I didn't ride it well. This year was different. The tires were perfect, I had the right gear and everything just clicked. A nice semi-technical course that played to both types of racers. Power sections for the big engines and twisty, off-chamber turns for the technical weenies like myself. There was something for everyone here.

The next couple laps were simply trying to ride smart and push as hard as the legs would allow. I bobbled a turn or two next to the tennis courts, but, nothing too bad. I guess it was my third or forth lap I decided to ride the sand pit. Many tires had packed a good line and riding was much easier now. I believe it was on this lap that Bill caught me and never looked back. He had a great race out there and I just hope to make the highlight reel, as he was passing me. Prior to this I was in something of a "no mans lands" with no one within attacking distance, either in front or behind. I had become complacent and I let up a little too much on that lap. Shell shocked, I couldn't mount a decent counter-attack and watched him slowly ride away.

Bell lap was all about riding smart and not giving up any spots. I was able to do both. I found just enough extra kick that I was able to open the gap on a rider who had been breathing down my neck a littler earlier. He faded off the back and I drove hard through the final sections of the course. Near the tennis courts I looked back to see my gap had increased a few more seconds and I knew unless something catastrophic occurred, I could soft peddle to the finish. Rolling in I was 13th in the Masters B race and 5th in my age group.

The tandem race came next, well, not actually next, more like 5 hours later. So, I had a lot of time to kill and tried to limit my beer consumption while I whittled away the afternoon. I later found out I cracked a beer while standing next to the parks liaison that help organize the race. Apparently he just shook his head as he walked away and I was just blissfully unaware of the entire situation. Oops. Where was I? Right, 5 hours to kill. I watched the Little Belgium's race, the junior's, the women's race, 3/4 mens, 1/2/3 men's, got a portobello mushroom sandwich and fries (which were tasty), took a few race pics and laid out in a warm Autumn sun for a bit. Nice way to kill a few hours.

As the sun tracked across the sky, the temps dropped and we started to get ready for the tandumb race. David and I rode the bike around the roads and on some grass. We practiced a dis-mount and adjusted David's seat. We were ready and lined up on the front row. Nice piece of real estate we had there. The Elite guys had just finished and we were waiting on the AFC team of Padem. Dressed as Mario and Luigi, they made a dramatic entry on the back of a Gator. Another couple was dressed as Santa and his elf. They would later get the best costume award. David and I hit the gas hard off the line, grabbed the hole shot and were beating the reigning MABRA tandem leaders...for about 15 seconds. They passed us on the first turn and continued to open the gap. Still, we had them even if it was only for a fleeting moment. We did, however, ride strong and held second place for lap 1 with both the Kelley squad and Tom Tom club close behind. By lap 2 Padam was just a distant speck on the horizon and a team from Kelly Benefits was knocking on our door. David threw an elbow or two, so I'm told, and was able to thwart their first attack (I hope they know he was just messin' with them). They did eventually pass us and we passed them again. All in all, I think we swapped positions a few times on lap 2 and the first half of the bell lap. Then, on the far side of the course, they dropped the hammer and slowly pulled away from us. While this happening, I could see one of the AFC guys riding with one leg. I guess they decided to tie a leg behind their back to make things interesting. So, the Kelly guys, with their aero-dynamic advantage, pulled away and we tried to close the gap. They put pressure the AFC team and were only a few seconds back going into the last few turns. It was probably one of the closer tandem races we have seen in the series thus far. David and I were able to keep it together and rode a bit smoother on that last lap. We kept the pressure up and that got us on the podium with a solid 3rd place. I guess 5 hours of "rest" helped us out after-all. Tanytown, the MABRA championship, is next week and we will be looking for a rematch against that Kelly team AND their time-trial helmet.

Photo by Baler

Tacchino Ciclocross 2010

2010-11-08T23:35:00.005-05:00

My weekend could be summed up in two words, Bicycling Nirvana. The Bootlegger's Bliss on Saturday followed by a full day at Roseryville and the Tacchino Ciclocross on Sunday.

One year ago Sunday, I did my first "traditional" cross race at the Tacchino, presented by Squadra Coppi. I had done the Iron Cross a few times, but, that hardly counts as a traditional cross race, in the modern sense. Some would argue the IC is, in fact, a real cross race and what passes for cross now is some sort of watered down version of a once "manly" endeavor. All I know is it's fun, all of it. But, I digress.

The Tacchino kicks ass, plain and simple. Jim and the whole Coppi squad put on a great event and they really kicked it up a notch this year. Back for the 2010 edition was the incredible course, the tasty beer, sausages, and a live funk band. All that would have been fine for me, but not one to rest on his laurels, Jim kicked it up a notch with better beer, a better course, better swag from the generous sponsors, cool prizes, a Single Speed class, a tandem class (stolen from a stolen idea) AND a moon bounce. Hell, they even got a horse to run along the course during one of the races. How's that for a party?!

Photo by RickyD & Jojo

My first race went off at 11am with the "Super B's". They threw all us Single Speed guys in with that motley crew in hopes to give the race a little class and distinction. It was hard work, but, I think we pulled if off. One gear love, that's all you need. There was a little confusion with my number as the registration guys gave it away to someone else. Then they tried to hand me a number that would have me lining up on the back row. I protested, they told me to chill and Jim stepped in to make things right. Unfortunately the line judges didn't like 9 guys on one grid and we had to shuffle. Guys looked at me to move back and I told them to piss off. Not my fault someone else can't read a name properly. I held my ground and DKEG took the bullet. He moved back a row or two so I could maintain my third row position. I owe that boy a beer.

Photo by RickyD & Jojo

At the whistle I get to work and make my way up a few spots. Halfway through the first lap I think I'm going to die and loose those spots to some geared riders. Somewhere on lap 2 my legs settle in and I pass an AFC rider who was looking strong on lap 1. I give him some encouragement and think he's done for the race. A few minutes later he blast pass me like I was standing still. Maybe I should encourage myself like that once in a while. I try to close the gap, but, he keeps opening it up. Cargo Mike is now closing in on me. He's been working his way up through the pack and I'm next on his list, apparently. I ask for a little more from the legs, they refuse. Mike catches me as we start lap 3 and he's riding strong. I am able to muster a little something and hang on his wheel for most of the lap. No one is challenging us and we have clear sailing ahead. Lap 4 comes and Mike fades a bit, I moved ahead briefly and then he attacks and passes once again. On the far side of the course I stuff my wheel in an off-chamber turn and go down. Mike calls back for me to move my ass and I'm back on trying to make up the time. I close the gap a little, but, he still had more in his tank than me. We cross the line 3rd and 4th with two AFC riders in front. That was a good race.

My brother Keith shows up with my kids and his daughter. I have already registered the kids for the Lil Belgium's race at 1 and we have some time for a beer or two. Tood, Anne and the whole Bike Lane crew rolled out the welcome mat and we enjoy some of their fine hospitality. Back at the kids course, Jonathan was doing laps while the others worked off their energy in the moon bounce. They lined up the kids according to age and had 3 separate races to keep things fun. Jackie lined up with the other "training wheels" and they were behind the "skoot" bikes. 1 lap for the littlest of the Lil Belgium's and they all got medals and goodie bags. David's boy Will went with the next group and he was really racing hard. They went for 2 laps. Jonathan Lined up with the 8+ year olds and that group included his cousin Jenna and Jake, David's oldest boy. He had a smile on his face the entire time. At one point he stopped on the course to see if the kids behind him were "alright". Seeing as he was near the back of the pack I told him they were fine and he should keep riding. He finished the same way he started, with a huge smile. Not bad for a kid who didn't want to race. Medals and more goodie bags for all.

After their races, David and I had to get to work on the tandem. It needed some new tires, the old gum walls were looking a bit dry rotted and a swap was in order. We also needed to install some pedals and remove the bar ends. Some lube on that 20 feet of chain wouldn't hurt either. Prepped and ready we take it out for a little spin. Considering I had just borrowed the bike the day before and neither of us had ridden one together, we needed a little practice. We tried some mounts, dis-mounts, rolling beer hand-ups, you know, the usual sort of stuff. Armed with 15 minutes of saddle time on a tandem we acquire the day before, we were ready to race!


Photo by RickyD & Jojo

JoeP and RickyD were fashionably dressed as Piglet and Tigger, respectively. Anne and Andrew from the Bike Lane went as a gorilla and a banana. It was pretty comical. There were 15 tandem crews lined up and some heavy hitters again. The AFC team and DCCX tandem wining team of Padam was there. The Tom Tom Club, Jonathan of Family Bikes, a couple Kelley Benefits teams and a few others. David and I got to the staging area a little late and had to line up on the back row. That's a lotta people on big ass bikes to have to navigate through. Somehow, with all 15 minutes of preparation, we managed to screw up our start and and almost fell off of bike. Righted, we were underway and catching teams quickly. David was a great stoker and we worked well together as we picked off the low hanging fruit. Ricky and Joe, no problem. I think they owe DC Tony $50 bucks on some sucker bet that they could beat us. Ha! Next was the gorilla and banana, bamm...done. Now we had some serious riders clad in Lycra, not funny costumes. A few of those went down on that first lap as well. We rode the big hill, we rode the log barriers we carried over the regular barriers. We drove hard into the turns and the bike handled great. Tandem is addicting and we were having fun. The kids were out on the side of the course cheering us on and it was nice to have them there. We threw out a couple "high fives" on lap 2 and were ready for one more. Alas, the promoters thought were we having too much fun, probably wanted to get to the heavy drinking or were simply cold, they stopped us after 2. 1 more wouldn't have changed our position, but, it sure would have been fun. 5th place will have to do... for now. We'll have our revenge at Rockburn on the 21st.

DCCX 2010

2010-10-25T16:29:00.001-04:00

Now that was my kind of course. DCMTB & Family Bike's teamed up again to bring the latest edition of this popular race. Some refer to it as the "Queen" of the MABRA series and I can certainly see why. Held on the campus of the Armed Services Retirement Home in DC, this race saw large fields, a huge spectator gallery and some new categories.

The gang at DCMTB designed the course and it was well suited for those of us from the fat tire crowd. Very punchy course with lots of tight, twisty, technical turns and very few wide open "power" sections. Personally, I like that type of course. It levels the playing field and let's us dirty mountain-bikers have some fun. I didn't do the race last year, but, I heard they removed a long power section on the far side of the course. With only one gear, competing against guys with many, I was glad to hear of its removal. I was probably a little under-geared for the race (still had my Iron Cross gear), but, I didn't have time to change it and had to run what I brung. Even with my early registration, I was several rows back and had some people to pass if I wanted to do well. With a good warm-up, I hit it hard at the start and tried to pass as many people on the road section as possible, before things got jammed up on the course. I moved up quickly, found a good position and tried to settle in for the next 45 minutes. The legs felt great, my tires were holding the line and I was having fun out on that technical course.

Rubbing is racing and there was no shortage of racing. I almost got forced into a tree on one turn and was shut down once entering a run-up. Of course there was the usual "shoulder to shoulder" action in a number of turns. That's the kind of stuff I live for and apparently a lot of other guys feel the same way. Some really great competition without any attitude. Just a bunch of guys turning themselves inside-out on a beautiful Sunday morning.

Being fairly new to Cross, I learn something new with each and every race. Today's lesson: There is no recovery if you want to do well. You pin it and keep it pinned until you cross the finish or explode, whichever comes first. Every time I tried to ease back the throttle, I'd hear the guy behind me make up some ground or the guy in front open the gap a little. As long as the legs would allow, I pushed them as hard as I could. My lesson paid off with my best results to date. 18th over-all in the Master 35/45+ B race with a 4th place in my age group (guys with gray hair).

That was the first of two races for me that day and the next race was a dedicated Single Speed category. I'm glad to see the race promoters adding the SS Cat to the races, I just wish it wasn't 5 hours after my first race. Especially when consider Dogfish Head is one of the sponsors and primary supplier of all things hoppy. I tried to be good, I mixed equal parts 60 minute with equal parts H20, not together mind you ,but, in close proximity. My good friends at the Bike Lane let me hang out in their pit and I was able to get additional hydration in the form of some Michelob Ultra. If it's good enough for Lance.......

Anyway, so the family shows up in the afternoon and we got to watch the ladies race and then the fast guys. Jackie had an endless supply of lollipops and had to pee every 4.5 minutes. So, if you saw a guy holding the hand of a 4 year old in front of the porta-potti's and it looked like he was ALWAYS there, it was me....and Jackie. Eventually it was time for me to kit up and prepare for my second race, the single speed class. Even after my long break, the legs felt a little dead. Not completely shot, but, the snap was gone. There were a number of guys from the 1/2/3 race lined up and a few guys with fresh legs who were there solely for the SS race. Cargo Mike, DC Tony, DKEG, Seibold, Wheaton and Foley, to name a few, were on the line and it was great to be racing with these guys again. Someone mentioned a 3 lap prologue and there were several guys that thought that was a great idea, in theory. I guess no one took him seriously because they all hit it hard from the start. Neiters jumped out front, after just finishing the A race, and left a few of us in a cloud of dust, literally. Cargo Mike dropped his chain at some point and was able to get back in the game pretty quickly. DC Tony took off and his silhouette became smaller as the race progressed. My legs just were not in the hunt and I bobbled on a few of the run-ups. I was able to hold a few guys off, but, it wasn't the race I had run earlier. I managed 10th and I should be happy considering the competition.

One highlight, and another first for the race, was the tandem competition. This was the final race of the day and was wildly entertaining. Throw some of the best local cross racers on a bike built for two and how could be anything else? Driscoll & Blair from the AFC team, Neiters & Dombrowski from Haymarket, the Tom Tom Club of O'Donnell & Bartlett, the Klasmeier's, Biggs & a few more. Run-ups, twisty turns and a few bikes caught air. It was a spectacle I was glad I caught. DKEG and I are already keeping our eyes open for a bike, er tandem. Look out DCCX 2011!

Sickness

2010-10-13T10:59:00.001-04:00

Pulled this off Jim's blog. Incredible display of power and skill. Just sick.

Ed Sanders @ the Lily Ponds

2010-09-27T17:12:00.006-04:00

Cross season officially kicked off for me at the Ed Sanders memorial cross race Sunday morning. I got home from the Beer Run around 7:30 and didn't have much time to dick around before picking up DKEG and heading to the race. Fortunately, I knew Saturday might be a long night and I had the bike and gear ready to roll for the race. Quick cuppa joe and a shower helped to clear some of the cobwebs and I was off...again.

The venue is a cool water garden/nursery with numerous ponds and you guessed it, lily pads. Coming back from PA I drove through some heavy rain and was looking forward to a nice, wet & muddy race. That's what cross is all about, right? We drove through some light rain on our way up there, however, it stopped before the 9am race. With the exception of some damp grass in a few (very few) places, you'd never know it rained. Much of the course was dry and dusty and could have used a little more rain, just to be tacky. I geared the bike in anticipation for some mud bogs and probably could have used those teeth out on this fast track. However, I knew I would be staged WAY in the back of a large field, 110 registered racers to be exact. Only 98 of those people actually showed up that morning, but, I was still pretty deep in a very competitive class. Today was going to be about improving my passing skills....and not puking on anyone.

As usual, I tried to hit it hard at the start and gain a few positions. Tough to do when there are so many guys, but, I got a couple in the opening straight-away. From there it was all about finding a hole and jumping in it. I felt surprisingly good, considering, and was looking for my tempo. About mid-way through the second lap my seat starts to move and slowly slides all the way down until it bottoms out. Well shit, that sucks. Nothing major, but, I'm not getting any extension in my legs and this is not the most efficient position to be in. Riding out of the saddle for 3 more laps is not really an option, so, I just deal with it as best as possible. The long, flat gravel sections kill me and my legs burn as they grind from this compacted position. The good news is my gear choice helps with several of the steep hills encountered and I only run up one, which is a mandatory run-up anyway.

It was on the second lap I saw a rider down on the side, not looking very good. A number of people were on site to direct people to the side and keep the injured out of harms way. Well, any more harm that is. I later read that he may have broken his neck and the race volunteers continue to re-direct racers for the remaining laps. Apparently he tried to cut a corner a little too short and stuffed his wheel in nice sized hole. I wish him a speedy recovery.
Update: I just read the rider did not suffer a broken neck. He got banged up pretty badly and is in a neck brace, but, nothing is broken. I'm glad to hear this.

With my elfish seat height I rolled along for 3 more laps. It was damn near impossible to push hard on the flat sections and I lost time here with each lap. I would get passed and then make up those spots once the course got technical again. Unfortunately, it was a fast course and straight-line speed was more important than technical ability. I finished mid-pack at 39th and 11th in my age group, meh...

Later that night I was sitting in front of my computer waiting for the registration to open on 3 more races. Hitting the refresh button in my browser every few seconds. Start position is everything in these short races and the race to registration is just as important as anything you do out on the course. Learning to play the game, one race at a time.

Anaerobic Assault (aka. Beer Runs)

2010-09-27T11:33:00.005-04:00

The Tractor hosted another Beer Run Saturday night. We staged from Bucks "Love Shack" and rolled over to the top of Scientology. This was the hill that crushed my will to live at The Curse of Dark Hollow and gave me my first DNF. Fortunately, we were going down and I thought all I had to do was hang on and hit the brakes once in a while. Well, there was a bit more pedaling involved and the 1 minute start intervals meant you never knew how close you were to the person in front or how closely you were being chased. Only thing to do is gun it from the start and keep the needle pinned the entire time. This hurts when your legs are stone cold, you just finished a turkey and bacon sandwich and washed it down with an IPA at the top of the run.

I blew a couple turns that came up alarmingly fast and took out a shrub or two. I was, however, was able to keep the rubber side down and not t-bone any trees. That's a good thing considering the lack of oxygen impaired my ability to think rationally and see clearly. 17 minutes (or so) later we were down at the bottom, cracked another beer and waited for the remaining riders. One more beverage for the climb back up to the Love Shack and then the drinking got serious. Brett and Donna brought 4 kinds of homemade sausage and tossed them on the grill. A clear sky and harvest moon made for a great night under the stars. I was going to hang the hammock, but, decided to simply racked out in my car for a few hours. Rolled out around 6 as I had to get back home and prepare for the Ed Sanders cross race at 10. Good stuff.

Redemption at Teaberry

2010-09-16T14:59:00.001-04:00

I never posted a race report from The Curse of Dark Hollow. I didn't think anyone would want to hear my whine like a little bitch. The Curse put a major smack-down on me and was the first race I ever DNF'd. Sucked. I'll just leave it at that.

A late season push to spend more time in the saddle and less time moving rock hasn't really panned out. Several projects have limited my time spinning the cranks, but, it's all good. Trying to find the balance in things. Dutchy tried to kill us on a road ride, a race at Schaeffer, some Psycho Cross, riding with the kids, plenty of rock crawling and that sums up the training regimen thus far. The Tractor even gave us a nice preview of the Teaberry loop a few weeks back. Chasing gunslingers through the woods on wet, slimy rocks is always fun.

So that's it, my fitness is adequate, not great, but, I can get through a ride. I skipped the SM100 this year and I sorta regretted not doing the race. Lots of friends, new and old, were there and it looked like a good weekend. If nothing else, it would have been good prep for Michaux. No, my final "big one" of the year was going to be Teaberry. "The hardest 40 miles in the forest" as the T-Shirt states. I knew what to expect and was going to ride a little smarter this time. Don't go out too fast, keep a sensible pace and try not to die.

The forecast didn't look good for race day. 50-60% chance of rain in the morning with possible thunderstorms. The forecasters were right on this time and I heard the first clap of thunder around 4am Sunday morning. Then, the sound of rain beating down on my roof. Shit, it's gonna be a wet one. Filled my belly with pancakes and bacon and decided it was all good. Just another day riding the sweet rocky goodness in Southy. Picked up DKEG and Jim and we headed north.

The mountain was socked in as we arrived, but, there was a lightness in everyone's attitude. Lots of smiles as everyone got ready to ride. We set up our pit, got prepped and had time to socialize before the start. A short beer to get in the mood and then the pre-race meeting. Another Le-Mans start and I line up a little further back than last time. Trying to keep myself honest this time. Bang, and we are off running.

A little longer run than The Curse and we are back at the bikes. Rolling, I settle in with a nice pace and find my place in the pack. They give us some open, flowy trail to warm our legs and a few guys comment about the fast trails. "Give it time" I tell them. The beat-down is coming up. Buchness is riding at a nice pace and I settle in around him. A Gettysburg rider is with us and a single speeder from Harrisburg. It's a good group. We pass Roger Masse on a descent. He dropped is seat bag and went back to find it. A few people have already pulled over with flats. It's going to be a long day, gotta ride smart.

Southern Gas was a blast. My first time on that trail and I really enjoyed the narrow "bench" sections. Rocks are typical on a Tractor trail and this one was no exception. Next was Mackey, then Virginia or maybe the other way around. Tough stuff, but, worth the price of admission....and then some. I didn't hit it fast, but, the tires held nicely and I rode a lot of wet rock I thought I might be walking. Little victories for the taking and I savored each one as they happened. I was on the bike more than off and that was good enough for me.

photo by Tomi

Somewhere on Mackey, I come up on Nate. He's having some issues but says its under control. I roll on thinking he'll catch and pass me any minute. Unfortunately, his misfortune was worse than he led on. A solid ride by a hard man, I wish I could have helped more. A loose brake lever meant a quick pit for me and I dropped a couple spots in the process. Not sweating it, I'm back on and in pursuit...sorta. I'm not chasing people today, but, I catch them in the technical rocks and regain my position. I rolled into AS 2 and was fortunate enough to get the last cup of Gubna. That, and a couple cups of the other beer, was just what the doctor ordered and I was ready to keep the party rolling

Fireroads provided a little recovery from the single-track smack-down. I knew Stooges was ahead and suspected it would be our final climb to the finish. Most organizers might take it easy on the racers and send them up a fireroad. This, however, is Michaux and the Cupcakes play by their own set of rules. After we worked our way down into the valley and had some work ahead to get out of it. With all its wet roots, rocks and punchy climbs, Stooge's hurt and yet it rewarded you with some beautiful scenery. Tall pines, narrow bench and mountain streams let the mind relax as the legs screamed for mercy. I picked my way up this trail, soaking in the views, knowing we had made the turn and were headed home.

photo by Tomi

A little more fireroad climbing and then the final stretch of single-track before the finish. I heard we were using some of the beginner loop for this final section. At AS 2 a Gettysburg rider grumbled and said something like "that stuff sucks". The fireroad was nothing to write home about (they never are), but the single track was kinda fun. Fairly flat, a little bony and a tad faster made for a fun way to finish the race. You could drift through the muddy turns as you tried to avoid small baby heads, it was a blast. I knew I was getting close when I could smell the camp fires. Then, you'd hear a cheer, next was the glimpse of the tents poking through the woods. I rolled into the chute and ended my race the same way I started it, with a smile on my face. Travis and the Gettysburg crew sure know how to throw a party. They serve up a hearty meal, so, bring a big spoon and prepare to feast.

Getting the urge again

2010-09-13T15:58:00.002-04:00

Back On The Chain Gang aka. Gates Follow-Up #3

2010-07-14T16:45:00.001-04:00

The second belt the good People from Gates sent me worked great for one race and a couple rides. Then, at some point, I compromise the carbon in that one as well. Maybe it was that stick that got sucked into the drive-train (not very badly I'll add) or maybe it was the large logs I like to hop or the rocks I ride over. Who knows. All I know is it's a mountain bike and things like sticks, logs and rocks will be encountered during the course of a ride. At least I would hope these things will be encountered, otherwise, I might as well just stick with skinny tires and asphalt.

I knew the system was failing on a ride at Raystown Lake PA. RAYSTOWN LAKE of all places! These are some of the smoothest, buffest trails on the East Coast. They don't get much smoother. If a Carbon Belt can't handle the demands of this trail system, I can't think of any situation it can. I'll also add that a few people who know me all commented that if I couldn't get the system to work properly, no one can. Not trying to boast, just stating comments made by people who know me.

Road bike, Commuters, sure. I can see it working in these situations. Larger cogs means more contact area and you can probably run a little less tension than the high torque demands of a mountain bike. The Carbon Drive System "should" be perfect for a single speed commuter. Internally gear hubs? I don't know. I think the tension this system requires would toast an Alfine hub in short order.

So, I'm back on the chain gang. I re-installed a roller pin drive train that had seen countless miles and numerous races. One that has had sticks jammed inside, rolled over logs and the seen the occasional rock strike. This old, "inferior" drive-train never complained as I grunted my way up rock strewn climbs before and it's not complaining now. It hasn't popped or slipped once since going back on the bike. It's nice to be able to focus on the trail again....and not my belt.

Photo by DKEG.

The Future is Now!

2010-06-30T17:11:00.002-04:00

Gates Belt Drive - A Follow Up

2010-05-24T13:30:00.001-04:00

A post in April was about some great customer service I received from the folks at Gates. One (brutal) race in Michaux and several rides later, I thought a follow-up on the new belt was in order.

Armed with my new belt, tension gauge & some good info from Steve @ Gates I installed the replacement belt a few days before the Michaux Maximus. I had a little "shake down" ride in the shed with the fellas and the new belt worked great. The popping sound was gone and I could crank up a hill without fear.

Then came the Maximus and the drive system worked flawlessly over the rocky trails in Michaux. Part of me (a very small part) wanted to test out the belt drive in "less-than-optimal" conditions like last year. However, that was not to be for 2010 and the trails were dry and fast.

This past weekend I did an incredible ride at Rattling Creek in Lyken's Pa. and once again the belt worked great. The system was subjected to very tight single track lined with rain soaked mountain laurel and blueberry. Everything got wet quickly and stayed that way the entire ride. A roller pinned chain would require a nice lube bath once home. Not the case with my Gates belt. It was getting cleaned and lubed the entire time.

Several recent rides have confirmed the new belt's reliability and over-all I'm pretty happy with the system. My only complaint has more to do with frame design and how it accommodates the belt drive. With two drive-side spacers on the bottom bracket, the front chain-ring rides dangerously close to the chain-stays. I added an extra half width spacer to the drive-side to give the ring some extra breathing room. This meant the BB cup has fewer threads in the shell and I've already stripped one Endura BB cup on this side. I have a beautiful Phil, with stainless steel cups, sitting at home and that will make its way onto the Spot soon enough. I just think that these sort of things should be taken into consideration during the frame design process. Again, no fault of the belt drive. It's just that frame builders need to do more than put a split into a stay when they build a belt-driven bicycle. If the bike were from any other builder, I'd chalk it up as a rookie mistake. However, as a pioneer and earlier adopter of the Gates belt drive, Spot really should have this stuff perfected by now.

Michaux Maximus

2010-05-03T15:52:00.000-04:00

The Maximus was a very different race for me this year. First, it looked like the course was going to be dryer and faster than last year. Second, it was going to be much hotter with summer like temps in the 90's. Third, I decided to do the shorter, 20 mile race and miss out on the "good stuff" only found on the longer course.

One thing that didn't change this year was the number of flat tires. Last year, the trail was lined with people changing out tubes and this year was no different. In fact, I'd say it was even worse. It was for me. After gunning it at the start, I found myself with the lead pack and headed into the single-track in great position. We were zipping through the woods and I was feeling pretty good considering my lack of "training". Topped out and riding along a ridge, the trail started it's first real descent down some of that rocky goodness know as Michaux. Weaving through the rocks the smile quickly leaves my face as I hear the dreaded "whoosh" of air escaping from my rear tire. The rocks have claimed another victim and the wind has been knocked out of my sails. It's mile 3 and I have a long day ahead of me. The tube change went as well as can be expected. I will say the new dropouts are much nicer to deal with and make for easier tire repairs. I get rolling again, however, I saw most of the SS class pass me as I tended to my wheel. My work just got a little harder if I plan to salvage this race.

Knowing you have to play "catch-up" is a pretty crappy feeling under ideal conditions. In Michaux, it's down right nasty. I was now riding outside my comfort zone, had a LOT of people to pass on tight single track and have already used the one spare tube I have for the day. I had to ride aggressively AND smart at the same time. I was on the hunt and working my way through the field. One nice bonus was seeing so many friends out on the trail during the race. We'd chat for a second, find a good spot and I'd pass. This went on for a while, but unfortunately, only a few were racing in the SS class. Then, I saw Aaron who fell victim to the rocks and was quickly repairing his tube as well. I was starting to get concerned.

Around this time a guy comes up from behind pretty fast. It's obvious he suffered a fate similar to mine and was trying to make up some time. He passes and I see he is a SSer as well. I assume he was in front of me when we hit the single track and was the leader for a brief period, before we both flatted. He's pushing hard and doesn't sound very good. His breathing is labored with a little wheezing mixed in for good measure. I now have my carrot! He is riding fast, but a little reckless. I know if I can keep him in my sights my chances are good if it comes down to the wire. He bombs the descents like a wild man while I back it off a tad to save my tube. I know I'll see him again once things level off, if not sooner. Sure enough, around mile 14 I loose him briefly as we negotiate a fast, rock strewn descent. Then, near the bottom, he's off to the side with a second blown tube and no spare. Without a spare of my own, I can't help him and press on.

I picked off a few more geared riders, but, I don't see anymore monocogs. The miles are ticking down and I'm pretty sure I'm in 5th or 6th place. Aside from a couple stragglers, I haven't passed many guys in my class and it appears the podium will have to wait for another day. I make my way through a stream valley trail, wash off and lubricate the belt drive in a nice water crossing and slide around on the wet roots. Coming out of the valley, there is another rock infested ATV trail that has become slippery from a brief shower that passed over-head. A little more single-track and I get dumped out onto a fireroad and my last couple miles of this race.

Last year, we took this fireroad up to an ATV trail for added mileage and a big climb. This topped out at a rock garden called "Shake & Bake" and the final push into the finish. Oddly, they are keeping us on the road a bit longer this year. No worries, I'm feeling good, pushing hard and know I'll pick off a couple more people in the remaining few miles. I pass by one geared rider and a woman walking her dog. Way off, in the distance, I see a rider near the top of the climb. I dig a little deeper and find some extra kick in the legs. As soon as the road tops out I start to see canopies on the other side of the trees, then some course tape. Crap, can this be the finish....already!? The fireroad climb was a bit anti-climatic compared to the smack down of Shake & Bake last year, however, it's getting hot and the beer is cold. I make the left turn into the timing tent where I'm greeted by Camps, Tomi, Rich and a host of others. David is there as well and just pulled off a strong 2nd place. Apparently, I just got 3rd. Damn! That was a fine day of racing and even better when you can share the podium with a friend and teammate.

Steak Night @ Viper

2010-04-30T09:54:00.001-04:00

Steak Night @ Viper
Originally uploaded by wrench177

The original post-ride chips and jerky got serious last night. Stir-fried veggies, sauteed veggies, pan seared lump crab meat and some fat ass NY strips. Add a fine selection of beers and you have "Steak Night" in the Shed. It's going to be a little hard to top this one.

Customer Service- Alive and well at Carbon Drive Systems

2010-04-26T12:55:00.000-04:00

I had to follow up on my last post. A rep from Gates Carbon Drive Systems read my review and suggested I call them. Well, I just got off the phone with Steve and my faith in humanity has been restored. My call was taken immediately, I was never put on hold and was treated to exceptional customer service.

Steve asked a couple questions about my drive, cog/chainring sizes and belt length. He informed me that once the belt starts making those sounds, the carbon fibers have been compromised and the noise will only get worse, which is exactly what has happened. I was also informed that the smaller cog combo likes higher tension due to reduced contact area. Initial setup is very important and running the belt at a higher tension is much better than less tension. Good things to know. Armed with this new information, and my cricket gauge, I look forward to installing the new belt.

As I mentioned in the previous post, I really love the Carbon drive and hope to get it sorted out. Hopefully it'll be here in time for the Maximus this Sunday. Talk about "trial-by fire".

Steve, thanks again for the exceptional service. It's great when a company stands behind their product and takes care of their customers.

Gates Carbon Drive- A Review

2010-04-24T22:08:00.005-04:00

The boys in Golden treated me great when it came time for a replacement frame. The new Spot is great and I'm loving the Paragon sliders. My only gripe, the Gates Carbon Belt Drive. I can't get the damn thing to work right. The alignment looks dead on, the tension is high, but, when I really torque down on the cranks, it makes a popping or "snapping" sound. The belt doesn't slip, I'm not throwing my knees into the stem or anything like that, but this sound is VERY nerve racking. It always occurs when you really need your drive-train to work and work flawlessly, on a steep pitch on some insanely technical climb. It is at this moment I need to focus on the task at hand, not worry about the snap, crackle, pop coming from my rear wheel.

Even at cost, converting to a belt drive is not cheap. It's a major investment that one "should" be able to rely on. Now, in all fairness, the system is phenomenal 99.8% of the time. It's light, quite, requires almost no maintenance and provides instantaneous power to the rear wheel. Several reviews mention this perceived power to the wheel and I was skeptical. I found myself going back to a chain drive recently and noticed a lack of responsiveness when the chain was installed. I ran the chain for a local 12 hour race and went back to the belt drive a few days later. There is a noticeable difference between the two drives when it comes to crisp transfer of power. The belt drive puts power to the wheel instantly and effectively. Combined this with the reduced weight, lack of required maintenance and long life span and this should be the perfect system. Should be.

I've aligned, re-aligned and re-re-aligned the belt ad nauseam. I've added tension to the point I heard the BB bearings cry "uncle". Then, I'd re-align the cog once more. Out on the trail things appear to be great until that first big, steep pitch that requires an all out effort, then "SNAP!". That sound that sends chills up my spine. WTF! This is getting old. Well, I'm pretty heavily invested in this drive, and really want to give it a fair shake, exhaust all avenues if you will, so, I drop another $40 bucks on the little "belt tension indicator" Gates sells (along with a smaller cog (for more money than I'm comfortable discussing right now)). I re-install the belt and align, re-align and re-re-re align the cog a few thousand more times and then throw the tension gauge on there to see how far off I was with my own guesstimate gauge. Well, I had a little too much tension in the belt (according to the Gates do-hicky) and back it off a smidge. Considering the belt has already made the snapping sound at a higher tension, I'm not overly optimistic things will improve with reduced tension. Still, I follow the directions and figure these big brained people know what they are doing.

~~Today's ride proved one thing, those guys, in their white lab coats and fancy computer models don't know shit about real world mountain biking on a single speed.~~

Edit: Gates Carbon Drive System is sending me a new belt as a warranty replacement. Initial setup/tension may have been incorrect (my fault) and the good folks at Gates are not holding it against me. They stand behind their product and were very helpful when I called....which they suggested I do after reading my review. This level of customer service is impressive!

Time to kick the tires and light the fires.

2010-04-15T14:24:00.002-04:00

While not "technically" the first race of the 2010 season (Snotcycle was numero uno), the Leesburg Bakers Dozen kicks off the racing season this weekend after a long, snowy winter. I missed the registration (sold out in 58 minutes) while tubing with the kids. Several other avenues never bore any fruit and I resigned myself to a supporting role this time around. Then, about a week ago, Walsh asks if I ever found a spot and if not, would I like to join his three person co-ed team. The epic winter conditions conspired to keep me off the bike and on my skis most of the winter. So, naturally, I was very excited to be part of a team for this race. I jumped aboard with both feet and can't wait until Saturday. This race is usually more like a race within a festival. Setup and camp the whole weekend if you like, kids races, the main event, bonfires and bluegrass are all on tap for this weekend. The boy said he wants to race and he'll have plenty of competition from the Kegley boys (among others). Me, I'm just happy I get to ride my bike and hang out with my friends.

Oh, and the Blue-Eyed Devil is writing again, with a vengeance! Just doesn't get much better than this.

Mason Boner

2010-03-12T15:19:00.002-05:00

Mason Boner
Originally uploaded by bundokbiker
RickyD has a fixed wheel frenzy on the books. April 11th at Gambrill SP. Details can be found here.

The NEW MacBook

2010-01-28T12:25:00.003-05:00

Apple Introduces Revolutionary New Laptop With No Keyboard

You gotta love The Onion

Snow

2009-12-21T15:40:00.002-05:00

A classic Nor'easter formed and delivered a lot of the fluffy white stuff. Friday the stores were packed with people trying to beat the storm. Parking lots were full at the grocery stores, the department stores and home improvement centers. One would have thought Armageddon was upon us. Me, I was exchanging emails with the guys trying to see who going to ride in the morning.

9 pm and the snow starts to fall. Nothing heavy, but, earlier than predicted. By 11 pm the ground has a nice blanket of whiteness and I start to wonder if it'll be too deep to ride at 9am. 6:30am and the early morning haze reveals 5+ inches of snow and steadily rising. A quick call to DKEG and he's out. Thumb hurts too much from a crash on Friday. Frank bails to ride locally and do some sledding with Grace. The Outlaw is on the fence then opts out to do a townie ride. I call the Dutch. He's still interested and DCTony is on his way with two other guys. Crap.....now I have to ride.

I load the car with all the usual stuff for a ride. Chainsaw, avalanche shovel, come-along and a tow rope. I'm pretty sure I packed a bike as well, but, I needed to have the essentials covered. The drive up 270 was amusing as I saw no less than 6 accidents involving a lot of cars that had no business being on the road. Downtown Frederick was covered in 6+ inches of snow and I can only assume the extra inch fell on the drive up. The Mark boys got an early start and were already outside playing when I arrived. Their father could learn a few things about punctuality from them. Even after the DC/VA contingent arrived, Dutchie kept us waiting while he brewed an espresso, re-faced his bottom bracket and cobbled a pair of Italian hiking boots. The snow was getting deeper by the minute.

We opted for the back door and Mountaindale road. The thought was to minimize steep, paved roads in favor for some traction on the gravel. A few cars had been down the road and we didn't have any serious problems getting to the trail-head. Iceberg, that's were we parked and what we attempted. I won't even call it a "ride" anymore. It was hiking with brief sections where we sat on our bikes and tried to turn the cranks. The "Tip" was our goal and that was all we would see of Iceberg on the "ride". We did clear off a section of trail leading up to the Tip and sessioned that tiny section of trail until our media cards were full of bloopers and out-takes. Our party of 5 trudged back to the cars were we cracked open some brews and watched our cars fill with the driven snow. The toughest part of the entire day was dealing with fogged up windows as we made our way off the mountain. That one will go down in the books for sure.

Bring it!

2009-12-18T14:06:00.004-05:00

Capitol Classic

2009-12-07T23:40:00.006-05:00

The MAC series championship held at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston, VA.had all the elements for a great cross race. Frozen temperatures, snow, ice and mud were served in copious amounts this past Sunday and I couldn't have asked for better conditions. Cross, in my mind, is about racing in adverse conditions. While not a huge fan of the mud, I can appreciate the skills required to race in such conditions. Throw in some off-camber turns in the snow and ice and the game changes a little. It's less about the big engines and more about technical skills and handling. Sure, you need something under the hood to power your way through the muck, but, a metric ton of wattage won't do shit if you can't stay on the course.

The day started an hour earlier than expected when David called and said he was going to race Cat4 at 9. The previous days snow made traveling questionable and we got rolling early, just in case. An uneventful trip got us to the venue early with lots of time to freeze are asses off and survey the landscape. People were sliding all over the place and we saw several hit the deck hard. We were still in the parking lot. This was going to be an interesting day.

David registered that morning, so, he started pretty much at the back of the pack. I kept waiting for him to ride by when his race started and the poor guy had a lot of traffic to fight through. He kept pushing the entire time and I could see his progress with each lap. In the end he finished 37th on the day in his first cross race. Not to shabby considering were he had to start from. By the time he finished I had gone into pre-race mode and was getting ready for the Masters B race at 10.

Several hundred sets of tires were cutting through the snow and previously firm sections were quickly getting rutted and muddy. Carlo and I took a casual lap over some of the course and it was quite different from the lap I rode earlier. We rolled back to the start and line up on a solid piece of ice that once passed for a road. Fortunately this was just staging and the organizers moved us to firmer ground for the start. As usual, I hit it as hard as possible from the start and tried to gain positions before the grass, er snow, actually. Oddly, I found myself moving through the pack quickly and I was in pretty good position for the first time. Now, I just had to ride smart and maintain for 4 laps. The first lap was by far the most enjoyable. The course was still somewhat firm in places and my legs felt pretty good. There was one particular section that I really enjoyed. This was an off-camber, snow covered descent through an s-turn and around a couple trees. There were a couple roots leading into this section and it was all about cornering and bike skills. It opened up briefly before a sweeping right muddy turn. Pure pleasure if you chose the right line, not so much if you didn't. I nailed the turn on the first two laps and carried the speed into the next section. Lap 3 was ugly and I took out a section of tape. I survived lap 4, but, it wasn't pretty. I am, however, getting ahead of myself.

That put us down at the stream level and some sections of open running. The turns were a little greasy, but, the ground was flat and you could really get the cranks spinning through here. The there was a short steep run-up followed by several twisty off-camber turns....that were muddy. The run would pack my cleats and more than once I had trouble clipping in. Not really a problem as I'd have to throw an outrigger for the next turn that came up fast. Through these trees it leveled out again, but now we had to contend with an icy sweeping turn on the road. Lots of guys were going into this one with one leg out for balance. Past this we were back at the start with three laps to go.

One particular section that bothered me was the long, twisty section in front of the pit area. By the third lap this section was deeply rutted, peanut butter mud that sapped my energy. Running a 42x19 made it hard to get on top of the gear and several times I'd have to run most of this 100 yard section. Mental note: my running sucks....work on it. Riding this section would have been better, if I could. However, if I blew a corner all momentum was gone and it was time to run. Did I mention running sucks and I'm not very good at it?

Through the peanut butter one last time, over the bridge and to the run-up. I'm with a couple guys that all seem to have fresher legs than me. They sprint up the hill like a couple gazelles being chased by a hungry lion. My only hope is to ride smart and minimize mistakes. They caught me on the run-up, but, I got one on the descent and the other on the muddy turn. The fast open section is coming up and should be interesting. The gaps don't change much and we go into the last run-up with me in front. They both take the hill faster and I lose my position. On the chase, I get a little power to the legs, but, it's not enough to close the gap. I end up in 12th place in the Masters 2/3/4 category. My best finish to date in this new found obsession called Cyclocross.

Additional photos by DKEG

Lawyers

2009-11-25T12:52:00.002-05:00

ATTORNEY: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for blood pressure?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for breathing?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: How can you be so sure, Doctor?
WITNESS: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.
ATTORNEY: I see, but could the patient have still been alive, nevertheless?
WITNESS: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law..

Happy Thanksgiving to you all.

Rockburn Cross

2009-11-23T18:01:00.008-05:00

While my second cross race wasn't as good (from a results perspective) as the first one, it was still a great day and a ton of fun.

Pre-occupied the day before with my new Spot frame, I didn't anguish over pre-race preparation. After a morning filled with paperwork, I spent the rest of the day building up the new frame and playing with the belt drive. The cross bike really didn't need any attention. Hell, it's a single speed, short of some oil on the chain, she was ready to go for the race Sunday morning. Now, if I were a more serious cross racer, I would have had my spare wheelset set up with different tires, just in case. Well, not being "that" serious (and not owning a spare set of wheels), I thought the SB8's would be fine and I'd rail through the turns, just like I did at Roseryville. Rockburn, however, is a slightly different animal.

A very tight, punchy course with soft off-chamber turns and a couple muddy sections to deal with. The Small Blocks were not a good choice for this course and they hurt my ability to push through the turns and attack the hills. I found myself taking turns wide or losing control all together. One particular section was a sharp, muddy right turn followed by a short climb. This section killed me every lap. I'd come around the turn wide and would spin the rear wheel as I tried to grunt my way up the short hill. By the last lap I realized it was faster to simply run up the section than waste precious energy trying to ride it.

I am, however, getting ahead of myself. The morning started out great and the weather forecast looked incredible. Sunny with a high temp around 60. Barb and the kids didn't get motivated early enough and decided to meet me at the venue before my race at 10. Jonathan was going to race the Lil Belgium's race at 1 and was really looking forward to his first bike race. To think it was only a couple months ago when he required help riding his two wheeler. Now, he's entering his first race. Makes a daddy proud. So, I roll out solo, get lost when I got near the park and finally made it to the park by following a car loaded with cross bikes. In the small lot I see Seibold, Gwads and Carlo. Jonathan bums a tube off me and Carlo continues to have seatpost issues. I kit up and head down to the registration tent, wherever that may be. A serious lack of signage didn't help the rookie racers like myself. After crossing a maze of taped off lanes, Carlo and I finally make it to registration. Number in hand and waivers signed we head back up to grab the bikes for a little spin. I dumped a little tire pressure when I saw some of the muddy tires coming off the course. I also get a chance to walk around and see a few of the sections I'll be racing on in a little while. This course was very different from the Tacchino course. Less open running, tighter corners, off-chamber sweeping turns and a little mud thrown in for good measure. Boy, I wish I had those Conti Twisters hanging in my garage right about now. As a wise man once said, "run what ya brung", so, that was the motto for the day. I'd make the best of the situation and in the end it really doesn't matter, I was going to have a good time.

Cross is a little different from mountain bike races in that they line you up in the order you registered. The "early bird gets the worm" as it were. I registered late, 69th to be exact, so, that put me pretty far back at the starting line. I was gonna have to work damn hard to move up through this field, on this course. From the start we have a couple hundred yards of asphalt with a slight climb to weed out the field. I punched it hard on this section and cleared through a good portion of the early registers. The tires weren't going to do me any favors, so, I had to ride smart and not push them too hard in the turns. A small pile-up in the sand pit, I ran around the bodies and twisted metal to get clear of some more riders. Just prior to this I caught up to the In The Crosshairs guy and followed him around this twisty section, through the sand pit and into the wooded double track. On a slight left turn I go for the inside line and he promptly shuts me down with a nice elbow/shoulder lean towards a tree. I didn't realize this was NASCAR, but hey, I'm new at this stuff. Hindsight being 20/20 it was a smart move. If I had botched the pass, I would have taken us both down. It reminds me of my old BMX days where we'd scrap around the entire course, banging shoulders through every turn. Something you don't see at the MTB races, at least not the long ones I enjoy. No worries, I found a good hole a little later and continued to munch on new carrots when possible. I did make the video this week, watch for the prison stripes around the 2 minute mark and for a couple minutes after that. Video credits go to Bill @ cxhairs.com. Check out his site, lots of great pics, videos and interviews from the local Cross scene.

As I slide around a few of the turns I'd traded positions with a few guys and kept the tempo as high as possible. The short steep climbs were doable on the bike, but, slow and energy sapping. With this in mind, I'd run-up a few of them and usually made up a place or two in the process. Now, with one lap down I knew the course and how to ride it. Each lap was about pushing my comfort level and riding smart. By lap 3 the muddy corners were becoming downright nasty with more guys opting to attack off the bike. This strategy was working for me and I should have employed it in a few more places. The off-chamber corners were also becoming rutted and slick. You couldn't attack them at the same speed without losing traction or control. It was by this lap I was cursing the tires that could do no wrong just two weeks ago.

3 down with one to go, ride smart, keep up the intensity as much as possible. A couple guys catch me early in the lap and I have a couple carrots to munch on for the next 10 minutes. Not much action going on behind me. There is a small pack about 20 seconds back, but, I'm not letting up and pushing hard when I can. Some mud packs up my cleats and makes getting clipped in difficult. Frantic about losing time, I slam my feet into the pedals and get me feet set. The turns were getting lose now and the tape had been torn away in several turns. I'm sure other guys are having similar issues with traction. Coming through the barriers one last time and the big push towards the finish. The front wheel started to break free and I reel it in before completely washing out on a sweeping right turn. Only a few more turns left before the final sprint and the finish line. Nearing the tennis courts, I've caught my carrots and I'm on their wheels. The next couple turns are tight with little room to pass, but, I catch one on the steep climb and another on the final stretch of asphalt. We go down to the wire and I'm not sure who placed where. In the end it doesn't matter I guess. The race leaders were already done for the day and we were battling for the low 20's. I ended up with 21st out of 88. Not as good as the 18th I got a couple weeks ago, but, I learned a few more things and will employ them at my next race.

Spot v2.0

2009-11-23T15:56:00.005-05:00

Saturday morning, sitting in the kitchen giving the Big Dog all my bank information. We're setting up college mutual funds, life insurance policy (for me) and some other "adult" type stuff. He brought he boys over while Michelle was off riding Schaeffer with Mrs. Outlaw and a host of ladies. As the kids destroy the house, Darius and I attend to our serious work when the doorbell rings. The FedEx guy has a big box, a frame sized box in hand, with a discrete Spot Brand sticker next to the shipping label.

All thoughts of serious business get pushed aside and I'm like a kid on Christmas morning. Tearing into the corrugated box like it was the seasons "must have" toy. Christmas came a month early to my house in the form of a shiny new frame from the boys in Golden Colorado. In all honesty, this wasn't a complete surprise. Gavin from Spot called last week to inform me the frame was done and ready for shipping. He then asked if I ran a chain or belt drive on my old frame. An odd question seeing that they had my old frame and it clearly did not have the split dropout required to run the Gates belt drive system. "Uh, chain" was my reply and he asked if I was interested in going to a belt. You see, Spot has changed all their dropouts to a Paragon Slider style with a split in the seat-stay. They have done away with the simple horizontal drops in favor of the more versatile Paragon sliders. Needless to say, I was very excited about the "upgrade".

One thing about my old Spot that always bothered me were the tabs for the disk brakes. Seems they were a bit behind the competition when it came to the design and engineering of these tabs. The old design was a throwback from original disk tabs where you had to remove the brake caliper in order to remove the rear wheel. Rather shoddy design for a "premiere" builder if you ask me. I was able to work around this design with the liberal use of washers to shim up the caliper, however, that came at the price of pad contact. I never had 100% pad contact with the rotor, although I never had a problem with rear braking power.

The new drop-outs, however, are Spot on perfect (pardon the pun). It's hard to beat Paragon drops for ease of adjustment and clean looks. With a split in the seat-stay, my new bike is ready for the Gates Carbon Drive belt system. Gavin offered me a special price for the Gates system and I jumped at the chance to try something new. Even at the reduced price, it ain't cheap going to a belt drive and I hope this stuff holds up for a while. I will say the machine work on the cog and chain-ring is exceptional. The same level of quality can be seen in the Spot Brand spacers and cog flange. The Gates Carbon Drive belt, well, that remains to be seen. If a belt is strong enough to push a Harley around, they must be robust enough for my weak-sauce self.

So, we drooled over the frame for a bit, finished up the paper work and headed over to pick up Michelle. In the parking lot the ladies had just finished their ride and offered us cider, hot chocolate and cookies. I'm sitting their chatting everyone up, trying to be social, while all I can think about is the Ernie orange Spot frame waiting to be built up. After a nice lunch at Red Robin (thanks Darius), I rushed back to the house and began to strip down the Vassago. This frame, acquired from DKEG who got it from the Outlaw, who got it from Vassago as the second replacement to a frame they sent him for review, has been a great bike while I waited to hear from Spot. I thought its days were numbered when I slammed into a tree a month ago, but, the frame has held together and will be regulated to "spare bike" status as I get reacquainted with the new bike.

It was almost a shame to install my old weathered parts on this pristine frame. The orange powder-coat blazing like the early morning sun. I'd like to say I did my best to clean the old parts before hanging them on the new frame, but, who am I kidding? I just wanted it in one piece so I could take her for a spin. Without instructions, installing the belt system required a little bit of trial and error. The usual BB spacing is different and the front chain-ring needs to be installed in the outside (big ring) position. The rear cog also needs to be run at the outer-most position on the freehub. Normally this wouldn't be an issue, however, my normal chain whip doesn't work with a belt drive cog and an emergency visit to Lowes for a strap wrench delayed the build by 45 minutes or so. After all the details got hammered out I had the Carbon Drive system installed and turning. Smooth as butter, quiet as a ninja and totally clean. I can't wait to get this bike on the trails.

Todd on Capitol Hill

2009-11-10T13:18:00.002-05:00

Todd on Capitol Hill,
originally uploaded by dkeg.

DKEG just posted a picture that may very well be the last ride on my Spot 29er. Taken April 23rd of this year.

Thanks David!

I'm supposed to be getting a new frame from the boys in Golden Colorado. We'll see, it's already a few weeks overdue.

Tacchino Ciclocross

2009-11-09T11:58:00.006-05:00

As if I needed another obsession........

The Tacchino Ciclocross race changed venues for 2009 and was held at Roseryville State Park. Wanting to do a "traditional" cross race, I thought "the rose" would be a good place to start. 40 minutes of racing isn't a lot of time and I could get a nice ride in after the race.....was my thought. So, I loaded up the car with two bikes, a cooler of beer and a shitload of clothes. The temperature for Sunday was supposed to be nice and warm, but, I didn't know how it was going to be at 10am, the start time for the Masters 3/4 race. Rolling up to the registration table I knew it was going to be a scorcher (for November) and I elected to go with the summer kit. An injured Cat4 racer and subsequent medivac delayed our start and the short sleeves were welcome as we baked in the sun waiting for the start. Jonathan and Joel both received "call ups" and I lined up somewhere in the middle.

From the gun I hit it hard and gained a couple spots on the asphalt. On the grass I continued to push and passed people when possible and safe(ish). A rider went down in front of me and I was able to miss the pile-up by bending the tape a little. A few more guys out of my way and I was having a blast! Most of the first lap was devoted to getting into position and finding my place in the field. By the second lap I was in with a good group of guys that held a solid pace. We were not going to podium, but, the race within the race was forming.

With each lap I became more comfortable with the course and how to race it. The gear I was running worked perfectly for the steep climb and didn't hinder too much when the course opened up. The organizers threw in enough tight turns to keep the speed in check and that worked in my favor. The small blocks held the line nicely and I'm becoming more confident in their abilities. The guys I'm racing have bigger engines, but, I can close the gap when things get tight. They are taking turns wider and slower and I was able to capitalize on this in a couple spots. The climb was another place where I made up a few places. While everyone else shifted down, I had to grunt my way up the climb, taking a few spots with each lap.

Going into my 5th lap my throat was dry and a quick splash of water would have been nice. This is cross, however, and part of the race (I guess) is seeing who can last on what was in the tank from the start. That thick paste forming in my mouth wouldn't see any fluid until the end. With no one behind me and a small pack 10 seconds in front, I save myself a little for lap 6. Up the gradual hill and past the pavilion I kick it into high for the final lap. There is a lot of traffic on the road section and I yell up that a racer is on. They look at me with disdain and bewilderment as I fly up the road for my final lap. Unfortunately, I had just completed the final lap. The race directors cut our race to 35 minutes due to the time delay from the medivac. My race was over and I shouldn't have saved anything on that last lap. You live and you learn I guess. 18th out of 75 for my first Cross race, I'll take that. 40 minutes (well, 35) of hypoxia induced hysteria and I'm hooked.

The In The Crosshairs guy caught the first two laps of our race on video. Now running two cameras, you can see the action from both ends of the bike. Pretty cool stuff. Unfortunately, I didn't pass him until lap 3, so, I didn't make the video...this time. ;)

Flickr

2009-11-02T14:24:00.001-05:00

This is a test post from , a fancy photo sharing thing.

Iron Cross VII

2009-10-12T15:10:00.006-04:00

Another Iron Cross is in the books and what a spectacular day it was! The folks at YBR must have a direct line to Mother Nature because in the three years I've done this race, the weather has been perfect. Brisk morning air and bluebird skies greeted DKEG and I as we pulled into the parking lot. We were running a little behind schedule and quickly kitted up in order to get David registered. Once we got up there David realized he left his wallet in the car and one of the MBM guys hooked him up with some quick cash. I spied a few familiar faces while listening to the pre-race meeting. JoeP, Stephen Whal and Dan "the kid" Atkins were a couple notables in the sea of lycra.

Stephen and Joe have been here before and this was The Kids first IC. We all line up with the sub 5 hour group and hope we are not being too optimistic. At this point I notice Joe is sporting a shiny new carbon fiber Ridley...with gears! Oh, the humanity. I knew he had succumbed to the dark side (roadie), but, I thought he'd at least keep it real for the IC. I guess not. He would eventually regret this decision, more on that later. We're given the go and have to wait until our section of mass started to move. On the road we pick off people and continue the do the same on the course. A sand pit had been added to the cross course this year as well as a few new hairpin turns. The Vortex of Death was still there and I spied a big smile on The Kid as we spiraled around. Another hairpin to reverse direction and we would soon be spat out onto the road and the pace lines.

Joe, Dan and Stephen all pass me as they jumped on some fast moving trains. I settled in with a couple guys and we worked together with a pace more in-line for the days effort. I caught back up with Joe at the big sandpit and nearly t-boned him when he stopped. Back on the road the hill climbing begins and I start catching people from the fast moving trains. They'll catch me again on the flats, but, for now, I'm pushing the pace. I catch up to Dan on another climb, he's looking good and riding smart. A tap and some words of encouragement and I'm back on the hunt. I push hard on the climbs and the single-track. This is where I have to race. Geared for the hills, I get too spun out on the flats and need to make time when possible. About this time Dan from EWR and I are climbing together and I tell him about the Lippencott trail. He's running fat tires and I yield as we enter the single-track knowing he is about to drop the hammer. I don't see him again until the finish were he earned 3rd in SS. Gunnar took the top spot in SS again, the man is a machine!

Lippencott is a great section of trail and one that usually provides the most amusement for me. Tight, rocky single-track that rewards those who take chances and ride aggressively. There weren't as many roadies for me to yell at this year, but, I did get to pass a few who didn't know you could hop a 6" tree on a bike. Always fun! The loose rocky descent was a blast and I got a couple whoots from the spectators. This section is so fun, but, far too short and we were quickly ejected back onto the road and pace lines.

Rolling hills and spectacular scenery help to make these road sections from being too monotonous. I'd get dropped from one group and jump on another for a brief respite before falling off. This was the theme during a long stretch in the flats. I did hook up with one guy and we worked together up to the reservoir. From there the road gave way to double track and I needed to shed the gillet before the "run up". Using the term "run up" is actually quite amusing when you consider this section. It's damn near class 3 climbing while shouldering your bike. Very tough and very long. You top out briefly, ride over to another climb and shoulder your bike up a rock strewn boulder field that snakes it way up a utility cut-through. I topped of the water at this aid station, grabbed a couple Fig Newton's and rolled on down the road.

Somewhere around mile 40ish I catch up to Stephen while climbing. The legs are burning and I've been fighting micro cramps on and off for some time. The next length of gravel road is steep and sustained and I have to pop off every so often to walk. It's hard to stay on top of the gear at this point and I start to loose spots to the geared riders now. I don't loose much, though, as they are suffering as well and grind out the steep pitches at a snail's pace. Once things ease up a bit I'm back on and work each section 25 yards at a time. Head down, turn the cranks over, rinse and repeat. Not looking ahead gives me an obtainable goal that, strung together, gets me to the top and the end of this climb. I know I won't encounter any more climbs like this for the day and focus on pushing as hard as my tired legs will allow. Stephen and I are back riding together and we enter the double-track as a team. The dirt sections are a blast and we are railing through the woods whenever possible. The deer fence section had been replaced with some freshly cut single track that was very technical. A pair of riders in front of us hopped off in several spots to carry their bikes. Stephen and I just stayed in the drops and plowed through roots, rocks and streams like we were rolling on fat tires. At one point he says "I bet your smiling back there", "ear to ear" was my reply. This IS the Iron Cross to me. Doing silly things on skinny tires. Not sure why, but, it just wouldn't be a race in Michaux if you didn't ride on trail that was cut yesterday.

We pop out on the road briefly before being pumped back into the trails. At times we were pushing a scary pace and I had a couple close calls with some big ass rocks. Never deviate from the line when you're on someone's tire, sometimes it's not very wide. We grunt our way through the last bit of trail and the final run up. From here there's a little more gravel and then some fast asphalt to the finish. Stephen passes is his big ring and I go aero hoping to keep him in sight. A few rolling hills and we are on the final stretch before the camp entrance. He has about 30 seconds on me at this point and I spin as much as possible hoping to close the gap. He's not in my class, but, it'd be fun to push a little and make him nervous. However, that won't happen today. The last bit of gravel road and into the CX course. One last time through the sand pits and the final barrier. I cross the line with a 4:39:33, grab my finisher socks and lock in 6th place for the single speed class.

While eating my burrito I hear my name called over the PA. Apparently they are giving away "door" prizes and I won a cool Cannondale messenger bag. The built in laptop sleeve works well as an insulated beer sleeve. I found this out when I changed and had to get some beers for when David finished. On my way back JoeP is sitting next to Gina looking rather dejected. His fancy full carbon Ridley (the one I spoke of earlier....with all those gears) had some problems throughout the day. He threw his chain off the big ring a couple times, had a flat or two and THEN ripped the derailleur hanger off the bike. I remembering reading "you never regret bringing your single speed" somewhere. Words to live by. David had a great day, finished the race on his single speed and came in with a 5:37. Not bad for a guy who was lining up rides back to the finish the day before. Stephen pulled a fast 4:39:03 and Dan "The Kid" Atkins popped his cherry and came in sub 5 with a 4:56. Nicely done!

Oh, I heard a full carbon Ridley CX bike is going up on Ebay soon. Keep your eyes peeled for that one.

That was my skull.....

2009-10-09T12:44:00.004-04:00

....I'm so wasted.

I always loved that line, right up there with the "No shirt, no shoes, no dice" one.

Pre-ride of Schaeffer with chainsaw strapped to the pack looking to clear blow-downs. I roll around a sweeping left turn, the front tire makes contact with the most innocuous little stick pointed down trail and I go down hard...into a tree....head first. Fuck that hurt! Pretty sure I heard my spine compress. My vision was a little blurred (tears in my eyes) and I just lay there, in pain. Fortunately, TonyP was on hand to make sure I wasn't dead. He helps me remove the chainsaw laden pack and tells me not to move. No problem there. A few minutes go by, I wiggle all my fingers and toes, can turn my head a little and determine nothing is severely wrong with me. Woo hoo....I'm alive!

My Bell helmet took the hit and crushed on impact as designed. That piece of foamed saved my ass and if I wasn't wearing it, I wouldn't be writing these words right now.

I went home, popped a couple Ibuprofen and tossed an icepack on the neck. Let things rest a little bit and headed back to the park to lend out my lights for the night ride. Yeah right, who am I kidding? I went back to ride. It's way too nice to stay inside. I ain't dead and I've had worse. I go over the bike one more time looking for cracks and find a paint chip on the top tube. Next to it are some more "stress induced" cracking in the paint. Well, I could be walking out tonight. The ride goes off as planned, the bike holds together and I felt great. Good thing 'cause I'm racing on Sunday. I hope Spot comes through on that replacement frame. I'm fresh out of 29er's.

Ho's take on Cross

2009-10-07T16:47:00.000-04:00

Read a post from Ho and I just had to share. It's fast and furious, just like the sport he writes about.

Getting Out

2009-10-06T11:03:00.004-04:00

I love this time of the year. The crisp morning air, changing of the leaves and cooler temps simply make everything more enjoyable.

The regular cast of characters have been a little scattered lately. Some went to the World's, some have been bird watching or vacationing and a few have found new ways to hurt themselves. Frank got a little busted up on our last foray in Michaux. While nothing was broken, his ribs took a beating and have been slow to heal. This, unfortunately, has kept the good doctor off his bike lately.

Night rides are winding up and I've led a few people around the trails at Schaeffer Farms recently. This is always a good time and is generally followed with beer and food at Dogfish Head. Always a nice way to end an evening. Last week, however, I wanted to ride some rocks with the guys and we coaxed Frank into joining us. Being the gimp, we let him pick the route and his choice was surprising. Iceberg, F2, Viper and Salamander. Lots o rocks on these trails, but, he figured he could simply walk the slower more technical sections almost as fast as we could ride them. This route also kept him close to the road if he needed to bail. Frank put in a strong effort and rode through a lot of pain. In the end, his injury dictated an early departure and he took the road back to the car as Darius and I finished up on Salamander. We enjoyed some beers and jerky at the cars until the cold mountain air hastened our departure. I hope Frank heals up in time for the Griz.

Perfect Autumn weather this weekend meant getting in some boat time before she gets packed away for the winter. David and his boys joined me and the kids for a beautiful day of sailing. 10-15 knot winds were a welcome surprise as we entered the Rhode river. The last couple trips out we were denied wind and had to rely on the kicker. Saturday was different and I didn't want to waste what Mother Natures bounty. Dacron raised we killed the motor and it was pure silent bliss as the water lapped against the hull. The kids were amazed that we could move without a motor and they were fascinated with all the rigging. 20 seconds later the novelty wore off and they were back to being kids and bickering about whose turn it was on the bow. Being the responsibly fathers we are, David and I cracked another beer and hoped no one went over the side. Amazingly enough we sailed around the bay and back to the river without losing a single child. We toast our success with another beer and head back to the marina in the warm glow of an Autumn evening.

Sunday morning we were able to get a few guys together for an amazing ride in the Shed. Tony, DaveG, Darius, David and I met at Sandflats, headed south for a bit before turning back towards the northern trails. Blue to Crystal Clear, Tricky Trail, Enchanted Forest and over to the Drop Trail. Darius, Tony and I snaked down this trail following each others line and it just flowed without a single dab among us. Definitely the best ride I've ever had on that section. We grunted our way up Death March and picked up f2 to find a bunch of baby rattlers on Capitol Hill. A little session on Double Stuff, the swoopy turns and final rock garden dropped us off at Viper. Took that out and across the road to Salamander and finished up on Skink. A little Brew Pub in town to round it all out and mark this day down in the books.

The Iron Cross VII is coming up this weekend. Not much interest from the local crew like last year, but, I love this race and plan to be there. It's hard to beat Michaux in the fall.

Boat photo courtesy of DKEG

Labor Day

2009-09-07T16:26:00.012-04:00

No SM100 meant my Labor day weekend was wide open and in need of activities. I saw a flyer about some community fireworks at the new marina and entered the date into the CrackBerry. I thought a nice over-nighter on the boat would be fun and was promptly vetoed by the Mrs. when I pitched the idea. No worries, it was still going to be a great day and the kids were ready to play. Like the last time, they spent most of their time in the water and it was hard getting them back aboard for dinner. As the sun began its descent, a large orange moon appeared on the opposite horizon. Crystal clear skies and a full moon provide an incredible backdrop for the pryo-technic display. I really didn't think this display was going to be a big deal until I motored around the bend to a river packed with boats. I later found out numerous clubs sail from far away to view this display and at its conclusion I knew why. It was amazing! If you find yourself looking for something to do next Labor day, go to the Rhode river (near day mark 7) and enjoy some amazing fireworks.

Sunday I decided to head a bit further north and ride Michuax with the MBM and/or Gettysburg crew. They were planning to ride most of the Teaberry loop and Travis mentioned something about Mackey, a trail I thought I had seen before. The lot was filling up fast and there were a LOT of people out for this ride. Not wanting to get stuck in a long line of bikers, I rolled out with the lead group that hit the trails running. There were about 15 of us pushing a brisk pace throughout the 13 miles of the beginner loop. This was a great piece of trail and a bit faster than the normal rock crawling associated with Michaux. There were still plenty of rocks, but, the gardens were smaller and you could carry some speed throughout. This loop was a great sample of what Michaux has to offer, only a little smaller and not quite as technical. A nice beginner loop for the Terror of Teaberry.

Back in the lot people regrouped and prepared for more, if you chose. Some guys from Philly (Harlan Price, Topher and a buddy) missed the first loop and talked to Travis about hitting Mackey via the single-track. I heard the other ride would have a lot of double track and the choice was clear. While many of the other riders were still returning to the lot, a small group of 9 quietly slid off into the woods. I was among that group. Our second loop started in the same direction as the first, but, only for a moment. A few minutes later we were on some trails that seemed vaguely familiar and that's when Travis mentions Rocky Ridge. Memories of an earlier ride with Camps and the Outlaw came flooding back. I recalled technical trails covered in briar's that shredded your skin, deer fences that prevented access and a tour guide who was not to sure of our position. The briar's were still there (cut back a bit from a dual sport race), as were the deer fences, but, Travis knew the route and kept us on task the entire time. At the third fence was a good bailout for people on a schedule. 3 in our party had prior obligations that prevented them from continuing. Our tour guide took this opportunity to stress the fact that what lie ahead were 4 more hours of ass kicking single-track and no water until the bottom. I'm riding with people I usually read about and the shit is about to get surreal.

We jump on to a trail called Virginia. It's new, or so it seems, and the freshly raked duff saps your energy. This group pushes a mean pace and the technical sections are the only thing saving my ass. The reward for all your effort was ear-to-ear, giggle inducing technical riding second to none. I kept asking "is this Mackey?" and Cheryl simply replied "no, it's something new". The further you went, the better it got. The rock work and line selection for this trail is spectacular, the builder should be proud. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better we pop out to a nice clearing with an amazing view. On the other side, just through the trees, was Mackey, the trail I thought I knew (and didn't), the one I came to ride. Mackey has been ridden a little more than Virginia and that was a welcome change. It rode a little faster and continued to reward you with some insane lines. I would have liked to session a couple spots, but, we had to keep moving and one shot was all you really got. I can't even go into too much detail about the trail because there was so much to it. Rocks, rocks and yes, some more rocks, there was little time to let the brain absorb what was happening to your body. Just the constant onslaught of line selection and power moves to get you through to the next section.

From Mackey we made our way to Rattle Dick. This was a good piece of trail that seemed fairly new as well. I'm not sure why, but, on my last few forays into Michaux I always end up on freshly cut trail, or trail that rarely sees tires. The latter may have been the case with Rattle Dick. It is a great trail, but, I was getting a little tired of grinding over soft duff this late in the day. It wound its way through the forest until we came upon Sucker Punch. "That was the last rock garden" Travis would proclaim, as if anyone would believe him. We just laughed and smiled as we made our way down this intoxicating trail, knowing a toll would be levied at the bottom. We found water down there, in the valley, at a picnic pavilion full of party-goers not willing to part with any extra cheeseburgers. A couple Shot Bloks and a goo would have to suffice for the long climb back to the cars. Harlen, Topher and their buddy (I'm terrible with names), took Stooges up the mountain while Travis, Cheryl and I stuck to the roads. That was a LONG climb back to the parking lot, but, descending Sucker Punch was worth the trip. Travis and I talked about hitting Mackey and Virginia some time with cameras and a little extra time. I hope he remembers that conversation.

The Ring....my precious

2009-08-31T22:38:00.018-04:00

I'll admit it, I'm hooked. The Massanutten trail loop has gotten under my skin, RiderX & Jay have a new partner in crime.

With a few days left in my vacation and a three day pass, I contacted The Outlaw to see if he wanted to give The Ring another go. Jay couldn't make it this time around and I hoped my company would be enough. Joe & Jay had two previous attempts under their belts and I knew the task was no small feat. The plan gets modified with each new piece of information and there are still some missing pages from the play book.

I guess some background information is in order here. A couple years ago Joe told me about The Ring and his first attempt with Ricky & Jay. They tried it on bikes packed with gear and ran into numerous problems. Joe & Jay tired it again this past Spring (Ricky told them to take a hike....literally)and they ran out time as the weather delayed their start. Valuable knowledge was gained from these attempts and we tried to learn from past mistakes.

The Massanutten Trail, aka "The Ring", is a 71 mile loop that covers two mountain ridges, Massanutten East & West, in the George Washington National Forest. The plan is to complete the loop in two days to reduce the logistical problems of a longer trip. 35 miles a day seems reasonable enough, we have all done much longer rides in the past. However, these are not reasonable trails. With parts that date back to the Revolutionary War, long sections of this gnarled, rocky trail are all but impossible to ride and progress can be seriously impeded. On the other hand, sections that can be ridden are some of the finest pieces of single track I've ever seen.

Starting out from Mudhole Gap we had a little hiking to get to the top of the ridge. From there the terrain flowed as it undulated across the ridge line. The morning was already heating up and we knew it was going to be a scorcher, but, for the time being, on that section of trail, we were in a zone. Flying across the mountain top as we traversed past Woodstock Tower and over towards Green and Powell's Mountains. As I followed Joe through these woods I thought "it just doesn't get any better than this". A ridge line trail that offered everything you could possibly want, fast flowing lines, brief technical sections and views that were simply spectacular. This is mountain biking at its finest and exactly what I was hoping to find on this trip. A quick stop to fix a broken nipple was the only thing that broke up the flow of this trail as we descended into the Edinburg Gap.

Joe was diligent in his part as "expedition leader" and made sure I knew what was coming up. Short Mountain, he informed me, was nothing like what we just rode and had extended sections of hike-a-bike. As the day heated up, so did the terrain. The initial climb wasn't too bad, but, I knew it was only going to get worse. The progress we made on the previous ridge came to a screeching halt as the trail on Short Mountain became broken and gnarled. Sections you could ride were fun and challenged your skills, however, they were brief and followed by extended stretches where you had to portage your bike. The hard plastic soles on my shoes made matters worse as they slid across the rock surface in search of some traction. Somewhere in the middle of this mess we came across a couple equestrians headed in the opposite direction. I couldn't help but feel sorry for their animals as their bloodied legs negotiated the technical terrain. Their steel shoes searching for traction and finding little, like my spd cleats. At least we were there of our own free will, I doubt the horses had the same luxury. Even after we worked our way through the large rock fields, this mountain made you earn your turns. Forward progress was hindered with slow rock crawling that drained your reserves and fried your legs. It was about this time a visual inspection revealed an almost depleted hydration bladder. 3 miles left before our water cache and now I had to ration my remaining water bottle. The onset of a headache made this difficult to say the least. As the trail turned down and gravity became an asset the trail became only slightly less difficult. The seldom used trail was littered with loose boulders that shifted under your wheels. Coupled with over-growth that obscured the tread and made picking a clean line near impossible, I pinballed my way down hoping my wheel didn't find a hidden hole.

Off all the technical trail we rode towards the water cache and a major decision. This was mile 20 and it was 1:30pm. We were closing in on the 6 hour mark and still had at least 8 more miles of hard riding ahead, followed by 7 more that were mostly unknown. We had daylight, but, we really didn't have the legs. Short Mountain saw to that. Across the road from our stop was Jawbone Gap, a heinous section of trail which neither of us have first hand knowledge. This is followed by the Waterfall trail that Joe described as if a dump truck left a load of bowling balls behind. Neither of these sounded very appealing considering our current condition and we decided to pull the plug and try again some other time, when we could borrow Chris Eatough's legs.

Back at camp we filled our bellies and talked about the ride. While listening to the weather we decided to rest a bit and then ride over to Mudhole Gap to retrieve the car. Fridays weather was questionable at best and Joe didn't want another 20 mile ride in the rain like the last time. As with previous attempts, we learned some new things that will be applied the next time we go down there. The water cache was near perfect and I'd probably pack one extra bottle on the bike just to be safe. Summer might afford longer days, but, at what cost? The higher temperatures sap you of energy and increase the amount of water needed for the ride. The hard plastic soles found on racing shoes are great......for racing, but, a little extra traction and a bit more flex would really help on the extended hike-a-bikes. A rubber soled, lugged shoe would provide the sure footed traction required on sections found throughout this trip. Some Lake MX190's have already been ordered. A few more recon trips might be in order as well. First hand knowledge of every section would be invaluable for future trips. Besides, they give us a great excuse to go down and ride the incredible trails throughout this area.

Vacation

2009-08-26T08:00:00.006-04:00

Nothing exotic, just chillin' at the beach and on the boat. Bill made for some big waves on Saturday and we had to play near the shore with the wee ones. I was wishing I dusted off the long-board for this trip. Crab fest on Friday, couple days playing in the pool and kiddie rides in Rehoboth. Not a bad way to spend a few days.

Rolled home on Monday and got in a fast ride through Schaeffer, HMC and Black Hill that afternoon.

Tuesday we met Uncle Bob and the cousins down at the sailboat and spent a glorious day on the water. Perfect day to find a nice sandy cove complete with a private beach. The kids were in the water the entire time. I'm on a boat....mother f**ker!!

Here's the suburban white guy version:

Next up, attempting The Ring with RiderX.

Pen & Paper

2009-08-19T12:17:00.004-04:00

Just saw a very cool "video" which serves as a promo for a camera over at The Adventure Life. It's a ripoff from a Japanese photographer and Olympus didn't give the artist proper credit, but, it's amazing none-the-less.

Thanks to RiderX for the original link.

Now, the original.....

New fixed gear "bike"?

2009-08-13T10:37:00.002-04:00

Well, actually it's a uni, but, it is fixed.

Gotta get ready for the Bliss.
I plan to dominate the derby on this rig. ;)

Liberty Town Jamboree

2009-07-29T15:18:00.005-04:00

Another incredible year for the Jamboree. The competition was stiff as always, but, we managed to squeeze in lot of fun between the leg searing stages. I was hoping to avoid a repeat of last year when a hard fall took me out of half the stages. Other than a slight mishap on the first stage, I had a relatively clean race and avoided serious injury.

Historically, this summer-time counterpart to the Outlaws Punk Bike Enduro always seems to land on the hottest, most humid day of the summer. I'm sure this may be an exaggeration, but, it sure does feel that way. Maybe it's going from 0 to 110% that makes it feel this way. Maybe it's chasing down guys like Cargo Mike and Gwads while your lungs are burning and it feels like someone just ripped your legs off and beat you over the head with the stumps. Who knows? What I do know is the Jamboree is a helluva lot o fun and I'll always keep the calendar open when Jim sets the date.

Numbers were down a little over last year and a few friends were oddly absent. Their loss is all I can say. A bunch of the usual suspects were in attendance and we had a strong turnout from the SSOFT crew. RiderX rode fixed and did extremely well against his freewheeling brethren. RickyD, always the fashion diva, busted out a football inspired ensemble that had a lot of people shaking their heads. DC had a strong contingent this year with the aforementioned Mike and Gwads (Joel). DCTony was rocking the course and his bike stayed together the entire day. Always a pleasant surprise. The WUSS boys supplied most of the representation from the Commonwealth and were looking to keep the yellow jersey on their side of the river. They just weren't looking very hard. ;)

Speaking of the yellow jersey, I got to wear it on 3 separate occasions during the day. I was pretty stoked about that and tried to give Mike a run for his money when I could. He was, and usually is, the man to follow and I had fun chasing him through the woods of Patapsco. Then there is Joel, the big man, you give him an opening and he'll punish you for the mistake. Geez, he's fast...and big. On the last stage, I lost the lead to Joel just before the split. Then he made the same mistake I made last year and went to the left. That same mistake cost me 3 spots last year and I believe that was the toll exacted on him this year. You gotta love a little previous beta for these type of races.

At the end of the day it all came down to a hand of BlackJack. Mike was in the lead with 80 points, I had 70 and I think Joel was around 48. Last year I went all-in, busted and went down in flames. This year I was "trying" to be conservative and not really knowing much about gambling focused on the wrong person. I should have hedged my bet against Joel's 48 points and instead I pulled a pussy move and only bet 1o of my points. I know, I know, what the fuck was I thinking? That bet doesn't even make sense. In the end I didn't bust, but neither did Joel or Tony who both went "all-in". That moved them up and me down into the 4th position. The DC contingent sweeps the '09 Jamboree. Oh well, maybe next year I'll play a little smarter. I just hope the legs will get me to the table again.

Huge thanks to Jim, Amy and her parents for their continued support of this event. It's always a great time and after the "adults" are done playing the kids actually get a chance to race as well. Jonathan and Jackie participated this year and Jonathan did it on two wheels. I got him steady for the start, but, after that, it was all him. It was awesome to see his face beaming as he crossed the finish line. Jackie got some assistance from Will and she was very excited as well. The kids race really is an event where everyone is a winner, parents included.

El Cracko

2009-07-24T09:32:00.002-04:00

The Thursday after work ride was pretty good, for the most part.

We had our doubts at first that it was going to happen. There were some dark, nasty clouds over the mountain and you could tell it was dumping up there. We checked the radar at the Big Dog's and saw that it was a thin, yet severe, band rolling through and would "probably" move out quickly. So, we had some nice beer and cheese at his house and waited for the storm to pass. After 20 minutes or so, the heavy clouds were gone and the sky looked promising. As we drove up it was raining, hard at times, but Darius promised there would be sunshine, rainbows and unicorns at the top of the hill. We had to wait about 5 minutes more when we got to Sandflats and sure enough, it cleared up and we had great weather the rest of the ride.

Sure, we got wet from water on the trails and all the wet leaves, but, the trails were in good shape and there were no mud puddles. The rocks were slick as hell and that made for some interesting slides over them. You had to hit stuff square on or risk being ejected in random directions. This added a whole new challenge to trails that aren't the easiest things to begin with. When you cleaned a section it was fun, super fun. Getting denied could be painful.

At some point, I think it was on F2, Darius' bike made a sharp "clinking" sound and we looked it over for cracked tubes, loose parts....you know, the usual. We didn't see anything and pressed on. Took F2 over to Viper and went north towards Salamander. On the road Frank shot a couple rocks with his front wheel and Darius responded in kind. His bike made the same sharp "clink" again and a second inspection reveled a cracked top tube. Cracked about 3/4 the way through at this point. So, road ride out to the lot. A quick PBL and a toast to another fallen frame and we finished up with burrito's at Poblano's.

I think the Big Dog needs to look into an armor plated dirt jumper for his next bike.

Big Bear 09

2009-06-29T15:01:00.019-04:00

Spearman is right, I do have my own tale to tell. I've neglected a post about Big Bear for no good reason except laziness, so, here goes.........

The team changed a little from last year. Shannon was busy with "dog stuff", so, we decided to go with a 5 man team instead of a Co-Ed team. DaveG, DKEG, Frank, Jason and I were to race in Hazelton WVa on June 13-14th. Somehow I got "elected" team captain again and after some spirited debate a team name was chosen. The Nitro Burning Juggernauts was born as we felt the name represented the level of intensity each member would bring to the race......... Alright, maybe that was a bit much. Actually, David just liked the word "Juggernaut" and we vetoed all of his Italian themed names once again.

As the race grew near, one of the teammates was oddly silent as the organizational emails flew around. A few of us discussed his "silence" while on rides and figured he was just too busy at work to respond to the barrage of spam like joking interspersed with a modicum of real information. Finally, a week away, we all gather for Franks annual BBQ and Jason informs us he just isn't "feeling it" and has been talking with Carlo about acting as his proxy. Carlo informs us about several time constraints of his own and we keep him in mind as we look for someone with a more flexible schedule. Enter the Big Dog.

I was really surprised when Darius signed on to race. Lap racing is something he never expressed any real interest in and he can be a bit "particular" when it comes to the trails he likes to ride. Still, I was excited, he's a strong rider, a good friend and would make a nice addition to the team. Of course, as captain, I had to contend with all his contractual demands. Most were reasonable enough, but, I had to draw the line at the Swedish masseuse, she had to go....if he wasn't willing to share. He did find an alternative and I think it all worked out.

The rest of the team was comprised of the usual suspects. DaveG brought his "better training through technology" approach. If he can't train more, he's going to train more efficiently (I always loved that statement). DKEG has been ripping up the roads this year. He put down his chainsaw in favor for his bike and it has really showed, just not in his mid-section. Dr. Frank has been working extra hard this year, he got in a solid training ride a week before the race and then wisely tapered for the next 7 days. He was sure to be our freshest rider out on the course. I was a bit off pace from last year, do largely to all the damn rain this spring....and summer. That brings up a whole new subject, the trails.

Last year, Big Bear received 8" of rain a week before the race. The trails were, needless to say, a nightmare. Until the Maximus earlier this year, I've never ridden in so much mud and slop in my entire life. It was heinous. This year was not looking much better. We monitored the radar more than Floridians do during hurricane season. Every day it was more of the same, severe storms would rip through the area, soaking the already saturated ground. 2009 was looking like a repeat of the previous year and that made for some grumpy people. When we got to the campgrounds our suspicions were confirmed and portions of the abandoned airstrip were either saturated or under an inch of water.

Nothing a beer can't fix. That was the general attitude as we unloaded. It was going to be a festive weekend regardless of trail conditions. A multitude of friends were camped all around us and everyone was ready to have a good time. On one side there was a large contingent from Michaux, behind us some folks from Frederick and to our other side was the Notter First Choice team with Liz, DCTony, Ernie, Jason, NY Steve and Eric as their "pit bitch". Our own pit consisted of several Outlaw teams, Fixed Not Broken, the Outlaw Ladies, David and I with the Juggernauts and the ExtraFunky/In-Law & a Flying Dog team of JayD, Alex, Mic, Brie & Lynn. Big Bear is usually a great time, with friends all around, this year was looking particularly festive. Our shanty town erected and a small pre-ride completed, we tapped the keg and began the pre-race hydration ritual. At some point I crawl into my tent and pass out for the night. As the captain, I was also nominated for the Le Mans start and opening lap. Tomorrow morning was going to hurt.

Frank was good enough to brew up some tasty espresso in the morning. That helped clear the cobwebs from my head. Noon came quickly and the Le Mans start is designed to thin the pack before the single track. I lined up near the front with Baler and held a nice pace off the gun. As we are running, another racer informs me that I dropped my gel flask a little way back. I give up a nice starting position as I fight my way back to the flask, as it's being trampled upon by numerous runners. I have my work cut out for me as I am now near the back of the pack. On the bike I catch back up to Baler and pick my way through a crowed field before we enter the trail. An extended road section provides me this opportunity, but, at what cost. I'm spinning like a hamster on meth and my heart rate is through the roof.

There are several re-routes that bypass some of last years nastier sections. While these are a welcome addition, sections of the the trail are wet and quite muddy. Several hundred sets of tires are sure to makes matters worse before the end of this day. The pine forest section, with its fast flowing lines, has been slowed by the soft ground, but, it is still one of the better bits of trail and I enjoy railing through the turns. After a screaming bit of single track, we hit the big technical downhill. I'm on the wheel of another rigid single speeder and we rocked our way down to the flowing stream bed. Down at the bottom of the valley we now have to work to regain all the elevation we just gave up.

The long gravel road climb is a great place to recover and prepare for the next bit of trail. After the second stream crossing we come upon another re-route that bisects a section of low lying, muddy trail from last year. The loamy fresh cut trail is a little slow, but, it's better than the alternative. Turning the cranks, passing riders, output intensity and line choice are only some of the thoughts running through my mind as I negotiate around the slimy course. I know I have to save something for the final climb, however, the trail ahead is a mystery as our pre-ride didn't include the second half of the course. Last year it was power sucking mud from the boulder field all the way to the top. What was this year going to be like?

Wet and slimy to be sure, but, not as bad as '08. The approach to the last climb was ridable and I made the most of my new Karma. The tire and I dug deep and we rolled most of the approach and some of the hill. Better than last year, not as good as 2007. Topped out, there was a little more easy climbing and then bombing through the final rock garden. A little more twisty stuff and then the fly bridge before I could call this lap kicked. As I rolled through the spiral, the Big Dog was on deck and ready to make his impression on Big Bear. The baton gets passed and I'm ready for a beer.

That was just lap 1. A blow by blow of each lap would take forever and I've probably lost most of you by now anyway. I will say, as Darius did in his account, that our team really shined when the night laps hit. We jumped several spots during the evening hours and I can only attribute that to all the night rides we do over the winter. Like the last two years, I had the pleasure of the dusk and dawn laps. They are without a doubt the most enjoyable times to be on the course. Dawn, in particular, energizes me with a new sense of purpose as the sun breaks free of its nocturnal bonds. My dawn lap was to be my last lap for this race. It was also to be the most enjoyable. The night was kind and did not coat the trails with a heavy layer of dew. This helped to expedite the drying process and made for great conditions on Sunday. Every rider coming off a lap that day commented how much fun they were having and how great the trails were. One more lap on those dry trails would have be nice. Maybe next year.

Our team did ok, again. Another 5th place out of 13 in our class and 23rd out of 150 overall I believe. Joe's Fixed Not Broken team did well, again and got 2nd place in the Rigid/Single class. Fortune smiled on them as the Bush Doctors decided not to send a man out for a 15th lap and they got The Kid out for a screaming fast final lap. The Lady Outlaws took third in Women's Sport and were the only team rolling single in that class . The MBM Crew had a strong showing. Brett's Devo Vet's team took 1st in the Men's Vet class, Camp and the Multiple Organism's rode away with third in the 5 Person C0-Ed class. Lot's of strong riding by everyone, as always, and never a dull moment. Big Bear is way more than a race and that's the reason I keep coming back for more.

Photo Credits go to:
Theresa Svoboda/iPlayOutside.com
Uncle Buck
DKEG
Camps
Donna (several times)
ExtraFunky (JayD)
& The Blue Eyed Devil

Adventure rides with Full Keg

2009-06-19T09:36:00.002-04:00

When DKEG says he wants to try "something different" bring extra stuff. Tubes, food, water, lights, you get the idea. Then, when he says "been 'bout 7 years since I was here last", start questioning YOUR sanity.

Actually, when he says that stuff it usually means you're in for a good time. Might not go as planned, but, it's sure to amuse you and you're never bored. Had one of those rides last night. With more rain sweeping through the region the trails were out and skinny tires were called into action, again. The Kegger was rolling on his new Bianchi Roger (a very sweet bike) and we rolled out for yet another mixed surface ride to points north. It started out like most of our Sugarloaf adventures, hit all the usual roads, both paved and gravel. Then, when we got to the mountain, David said "let's see how the yellow trail looks". It looked wet, it was wet, but, it was also very firm. We kept checking to see if the 32's were cutting into the tread and surprisingly enough they were not. So we proceeded around the mountain on a trail that has little business being called one. Much like the Blue in the Shed, this is an old logging road someone blazed with a little yellow paint and called it a trail. A good 80% (if not more) is simply this old abandoned road littered with debris and gravel. After a heinous climb (walking) it levels out once more and rolls along towards the backside of the mountain. There is some single track and it was, admittedly, pretty damn fun. Very rocky and not the type of place you'd normally take a cross bike. Of course, we are anything but normal. If the rocks weren't so slimy and if I wasn't pushing such a steep gear, it really would have been a super ride. I flatted once on a small drop into a rocky puddle and was a bit "frustrated" with the situation. I pushed the negative thoughts out, after a cooling off period, and started to find the mo to go along with the jo. Good stuff on the back half and we were having fun.

Time was getting late and the sun was quickly falling from the sky. We were still on single track and had a lot of road in front of us. The last section of yellow went quickly and we commented how rocky this once buff section of trail was. DKEG's memory of this trail was one of fast flowing single track. What we found was rocky and technical. Fun to be sure, but, was not factored into the "plan". Back out of the road, we picked up the pace and tried to beat the sun before it retired for the night. The ride back was spectacular. A day that had seen driving rain earlier had become a beautiful evening perfect for a ride. We didn't quite make it back in the light, but, fortunately most to the route is on back roads that see little traffic. Back at my place we cracked a couple Peg Leg's and munched down on M&M cookies.

Damn fine ride!

Misfits

2009-06-08T14:00:00.002-04:00

For a bunch of misfits the Outlaws always come through you you need them. Same deal as usual, need volunteers and ride leaders for some MORE event and the bulk of the volunteer support comes from The Single Speed Outlaws. I know they are my teammates and I may be bias, but, they helped me out plenty of times in the past, before I was an Outlaw. Quality bunch of people they are.

Thanks again!

Photos stolen from Bek

See Spot Break

2009-06-03T07:22:00.002-04:00

Getting the bike ready for the weekly ride, just fitted some new Karmas front and back. Replaced the spoke that broke on Sunday and trued both wheels. I was wiping the frame down after applying some lube to the fork and was greeted with this little surprise:

Needless to say, I'm not very happy right now.

Lessons Learned

2009-05-26T13:57:00.003-04:00

After three washings, all the mud from Michaux finally came out of the jersey I borrowed from RiderX. It also did a number on my brake pads and damn near ruined a great weekend of riding, which I'll get to in a little bit.

It's been a few weeks since the last race and I've done some riding, a little trail-work, fixed a bunch of stuff and even acquired a big 'ol F-250 from Dr. Longtravel. The boy has started riding his bike and is doing so without the aid of training wheels. I am particularly proud of him for this as we never pushed him to ride and he came to this decision on his own. I guess seeing all the big kids tooling around at the camping trip got his gears turning and the bike looked like a reasonable way to have fun.

Work on the "new Blue" continued a couple weekends ago. We had a great turnout (again) and made some nice progress on the trail. A lot more benching and bunch of rock work was accomplished by the 20 or so people who came out to lend a hand. A week before I worked out a deal with Frank to buy his 89 F-250 (which was nickle and dimeing him to death) and we were able to use the truck to haul to required tools to the Sand Flats parking lot. The truck also served as the post ride bar with a fine selection of adult beverages provided from SSOFT sponsor Clipper City Brewing. Marty from the PATC also brought some post-work goodies to share with all the workers. We got a lot of good stuff done and had a great time talking story when the workday ended. If you want to make a difference with the trails you ride, I highly recommend grabbing a shovel and coming out to a trail-work day. They can be a lot of fun and very rewarding.

Later that night a bunch of us rode our bikes to Tom and Danielle's long overdue housewarming party. The ride from Frederick to Thurmont was about 10 miles and we had a spectacular night for a ride. Our hosts put out an elaborate spread and most guests enjoyed the warm spring evening outside on the front porch. After much food and ale we decided to head back before it got any later and/or our vision any blurrier. The ride back along the country roads was amazing as a full moon lit the countryside. Unfortunately, the moon didn't provide enough light to keep Jojo from "tee-boning" a deer as it frantically darted in front of her. Thankfully Jojo wasn't seriously hurt from the collision. Her helmet suffered a fatal crack and I know there was some bruises, but all things considered, we were fortunate to get a small chuckle from the incident.

The next day we loaded the kids up and headed to Black Hills park for a nice Mothers Days picnic. The kids had a ball on some new equipment that had a post modern look about it. We then moved over to the more traditional (and larger) play area. It was here, with its gently sloping grass hill, that Jonathan road his bike as a two wheeler for the first time. I'd get him to the top and he would wobble his way down and across the grassy field until he could go no more. With each run he went further and further, becoming more comfortable on his bike. I was beaming like a proud papa as my boy threw his arms in the air after each run proclaiming "I did it!".

"I did it" was the theme for my first fixed gear fat tire ride two Fridays ago. RiderX kept his annual MTB trip somewhat local this year and the festivities began from Douthat State Park in Clifton Forge VA. This meant a bunch of us who can't normally commit to a week long trip could roll out for a weekend and get in a mini biking vacation of sorts. DKEG, Darius, Mic and me rolled down to Douthat as 4 of the 15 guys staying at the Creasy Lodge for the weekend. Upon arrival I noticed some serious noise and grinding coming from my front brakes. I hadn't used the 29er since the Maximus and didn't realize that lone race ate away my new brake pads up front to the point of metal on metal grinding. The rear pads were paper thin and I moved them to the front after Baler offered the use of his 19T Tomi Cog. Ah, fixed gear to the rescue. Now, I've ridden fixed on the road and on my cross bike before, but, I've never rolled that way on my fat tires and never would have considered it an option with long, sustained descents. The kind of screaming descents you experience after each climb in Douthat. I must say, however, it was fun. I didn't kill myself, I was able to ride and fixed was awesome for the switchbacks. It was just when the thread stretched out and people let their bikes rip that I saw it as a hindrance.

When Jay got to the lodge, he had a new set of Ultimate's to install and let me borrow his Juicy 7's for Saturday's ride. I felt bad, however, when he discovered his new brakes were practically worthless due to an air bubble in the line. He rode the rest of Saturday with marginal rear brakes and I owe him a beer for his sacrifice. The Saturday ride was a big one (on paper) with our group hitting both sides of the valley. Lots of climbing was followed by high speed, screaming descents. I was happy to be freewheeling this day as the off-chamber bench cut of some trails at high speed increased the pucker factor. Eric, Kevin and I peeled away from the main group a little early to head down Beard's Gap. I did Brushy Hollow the day before and wanted to see how switch backs on Beard's rode in the opposite direction. It turns out this was a good call as the numerous switchbacks were a lot of fun and it got us back to the lodge just before a heavy rain hit the valley. A warm shower and cold beer hit the spot before the rest of the guys descended on the lodge. Later that day, after the rain stopped, a few of us tried to hit the lake for a little swim, only to be turned away by a ranger. We were directed to the stream below the damn instead. The cold mountain water was refreshing and cleared the brain before the nights heavy drinking began.

An early checkout time and the previous nights rain made getting motivated for a morning ride tough. Everyone decided to have a hearty breakfast before packing up and heading out. A third day of riding in Douthat was not going to happen. This is probably a good thing because we saw a lot of high water as we left the park and I have to imagine the trails were quite saturated. This decision did open up the possibility to get in a ride elsewhere on our ride North. We passed a lot of great riding on our way down 81 and something different was sounding pretty good. The further North we traveled, the better the weather looked. The dark clouds over Douthat became increasingly thinner as we drove North.

The decision to ride Elizabeth Furnace was made and then Mic asked a very good question. How was I planning to stop? I gave Jay his Juicy's back when we were packing up and I didn't have a Tomi Cog with me. Armed with a couple web enabled smart phones we tried in vain to find a shop open on a Sunday, that had Formula brake pads....in stock. I did locate one shop that happened to be open, however, they didn't have any pads for my brakes. A fact that Darius will not let me forget. Lesson learned: if your going to own brakes that are not the most popular make on the planet, make sure you carry spare pads at all times! Hell, the real lesson here is: if you go away to a long weekend bike trip with a bunch of your buddies, make sure you look at your bike BEFORE the trip. Don't assume it is fine when you throw it on the roof. Anyway, lesson learned, we decided to go for the ride regardless of my braking situation. Half of the ride was going to be uphill, so, I didn't need my brakes then. The other half, well, I'll just take it easy with the front brake....and the paper thin pad material.....which I was really surprised was still there considering how little remained on Friday. All I can say is it was one of the best damn decisions I've ever made. The day got better and better, the sun was out and Elizabeth Furnace is just a spectacular place to ride. Aside from a couple wet spots, the trails were in great shape and everyone had a blast. Darius rode the hike-a-bike, a feat not too many people can lay claim to. He didn't clean it bottom to top, but, he rode a section, grabbed a tree, brought down his heart rate and then continued. He repeated this process all the way to the top. He did dab a couple times, but, it was a heroic effort none-the-less. Mic was holding on until the end and seemed to have a good ride in spite of a couple crashes. DKEG was a tractor as usual and was the only one to clear on of the longer stream crossing we encountered on Mudhole Gap. All in all, a damn fine conclusion to a damn fine weekend.

My Boy

Michaux Maximus

2009-05-04T14:33:00.004-04:00

That race was BRUTAL!!!!!

Michaux State Forest, known for its abundance of rock, was the setting for the race. The weather has been wet recently and the forecast called for a coins toss chance of showers the day of the race. If this prediction resulted in rain, the soft, wet trails were sure to make a painful race pure hell. DKEG was looking for some company and I decided to venture north for my first mountain bike race in Nor-Chaux. I've done the Iron Cross a couple times now and ridden the trails with Camps and the Big Dog a few times. The Maximus, however, was to be my first go at a fat tire free-for-all.

The clouds were heavy with moister on the drive up and their bounty was released as we pulled into the empty parking lot. It appeared most people decided for the comfort of a warm dry home as we started to unpack. Jeff was parked to our left, Dan and a buddy parked to our right. We just shook our heads as we laughed at the stupidity of racing on such a day. As David and I prepared to register, I noticed a severe lack of funds in my wallet. "No worries, I'll just write a check" I thought and went to grab my checkbook........that was removed last Friday to pay for a radiator. This lapse in preparation may have been a sub-conscious desire to be somewhere else, anywhere else as long as it was warm and dry. David, not wanting to suffer alone produced an additional $60 bucks from his wallet and there was now no turning back. As we registered the empty lot became more crowed and I can only assume these people wanted to put off the misery as long as possible.

Shortly before 9, I lined up with the single gear crowd and knew the day was going to be hard. If the trails didn't punish me, guys like Topher and Tomi would. A strong pack of 9 or 10 took off and I decided to play it safe and keep my pace under control. It was going to be a long day and I needed to keep plenty in my tank for the second, more difficult half of the race. The trails on the first 20 miles were tough but established trails. The first 20 actually went by pretty quickly. I cruised through aid station 1 with plenty of water. I stopped for a quick refill at 2 and headed into the "good stuff" Camp talked about. This "good stuff" was mostly FRESH CUT and soft....very soft and muddy and nasty and did I mention muddy. Flat sections of trail that should have been used for recovery were hard, slow and energy draining. I was actually praying for a gravel road climb after going through long stretches of this fresh cut stuff. Then there was the exposed moonscape rock descent through an area that had recently been forested. Wet slimy uber technical rock garden that went on for a long time. By the end of it my knickers were soiled and not from the mud. ;) Then, let's see, there was more fresh cut soft ass trail...that was muddy. Slimy peanut butter mud that would not hold your tires in a turn. Trail just moved away and sent you in every direction through the turns...and some straight sections.

Then there were the nasty ATV trails and their loose baseball size rocks that beat the hell out of your body. We hit several of these during the race, sometimes you'd climb one, sometimes you'd descend one. The final long climb was on of these ATV trails and I really thought that they would take it easy on us after we got to the top of the climb. Wrong, the course designer decided to take us down a final rock garden, not unlike the rocky sections of Salamander, for the final 1/2 to 3/4 mile. God, that sucked. I was cursing the sadistic bastard that thought this section would be a good idea. It was here I saw David, who peeled off and did the 20 mile course due to a hurt wrist. He was taking pictures of me as I cursed this rock strewn section of trail and the little shit who added it to the race. David told me I was doing great and was in 3rd place. I knew this had to be wrong because I only passed 2 guys from the led pack. There were about 8-10 guys in that group. Anyway, I pushed hard to the end and ended up in 6th or 7th place. I was just happy to finish. When I saw the other guys line up at the start, I knew a podium spot would be near impossible, so, I tried to ride smart throughout the day. I'm glad I did because there were too many places to get seriously hurt on that course. I pulled into the finish line, poured a beer and was glad to have the race behind me. Geez, that was the hardest freaking 40 miles I've EVER ridden.

Big thanks to my buddy DKEG for the encouragement, the $60 bucks to race and the pictures.

See Spot Run

2009-05-01T16:21:00.003-04:00

Like a phoenix, my 26" Spot rose from the ashes of "B" bike obscurity and rocked the Thursday ride as a rigid 69er...or 96er....depending on your preference. Personally, I like 69er, but, that's just me. She's seen a little action on the last couple work days as my "B.O.B" bike because I don't have the 29er yokes, however, the old creaky bottom bracket kept her from any serious rides. All this changed when I found a set of Stylo cranks with a decent external BB in the bottom of a long forgotten parts bin. I installed the new(ish) cranks on Sunday and hit a quick lap around Schaeffer with the Big Dog on Sunday. Enjoying the ride, I thought I'd try out the rocky goodness of Frederick on the old girl.

The MoCo crew met up with Darius and DCTony for a sweet ride of the southern Shed and parts of Gambrill. DKEG, always the mother hen, brought along some swine flu prevention masks and we entered the woods prepared for anything. The rigid fork was scaple precise as we made our way down into the valley and I was once again in love with my first single speed. Tire pressure needed to be adjusted to lessen the beating my forearms were taking, but, other than that the new configuration was a joy.

Darius was riding like a man possessed and was clearing sections of trail I've never seen cleared before. By the time we got to Stegosaurus rock he was on fire and cleaned most of the lines available and some new ones never done before. Everyone started to get in on the action and soon we started looking for additional rock to crawl. A large outcropping above the main line provided a lot of amusement for everyone and we spent a lot of time sessioning this section of trail. Concerned with light we pressed on back towards the watershed. We took Jedi the hard way up to the cell towers and bombed across the utility trail. Lawnmower went fast and furious and I was amazed how well the rigid setup picked it's way down the trail. High speed turns were precise and the large tires absorbed the hits nicely. I jumped on Darius' wheel down and around Rusted Bug and we popped out on the road several minutes before the rest of the guys. From there is was the tight twisty fun of Busted Knuckles back to the cars.

As we cracked a couple PLB's everyone commented how it was one of the best after work rides in recent memory. We got a little bit of everything and a few unexpected surprises. Fast descents, long grinding climbs, rock crawling and flowing single track. It just doesn't get any better than that.

Photo by DKEG

LBD 2009

2009-04-22T11:29:00.007-04:00

The 2009 Leesburg Bakers Dozen is officially over and it was quite the learning experience for me. I decided to try out the "solo racing thing" this time around. Last year DKEG and I did it as a duo team and I had to modify my strategy this year. Double laps and an hour rest between pulls was replaced with 13 hours of turning the cranks this year.

I lined up in the first 1/3rd of the pack. I didn't want to get stuck in a long line like last year and hit it hard at the start. Making my way through the crowed field before the narrow single track was a primary concern. I geared a little steep, 2:1 like last year and it felt fine on the pre-ride. This helped me pick off numerous riders initially and I was burning through lap one at a stupid pace for a solo rider. I brought it back a little for the next couple laps, but, hindsight being what it is, I should have brought it back a little more. By lap 4 I knew there was no way I could push that gear all day and I decided two more teeth on the rear cog would work better. The new ratio was much better, however, now I had a new issue to deal with, dehydration. By the middle of lap 6 I knew something was wrong as my head started to swim and my stomach wasn't quite "right". I pull into the pit for lunch and found myself feeling worse by the second. Light-headed and nauseous the required nutrition was impossible to eat. Brie hooked me up with a cold damp towel for my neck and Shannon opened up her stock of E-Caps. Both these things helped, but, I was loosing time and still could not eat. I laid down for a bit and that calmed my stomach. Washing down a PB&J with as much water as I can stomach I head back out for lap 7. Feeling better I caught up to another solo rider and his teammate. Pat and Adam from the AFC team, who would later finish 1 & 2 in my category. Pat was leading me with Adam right on my wheel. The three of us rode most of the lap as a small train passing riders whenever possible. Pat had a great pace and I kept telling myself to stick with him, even though I wanted to pass. At the last large rock ledge Pat struck a pedal and I passed at the top. His pace kept me honest and I foolishly picked it up once in front. They made no attempt to chase and that should have been an indication to bring it back a notch.

Lap 8 I pushed things a little and by the middle I was feeling foul again. I brought it back and tried to drink as much water as possible, however, I'm already in the hole. As I pull into the pits Barb has arrived with the kids and I wish I could give them a better welcome. I'm feeling like crap and wonder how many laps I have left in me. I laid down and took a long break. A VERY long break. Goals for the race are now being modified and my 16+ laps are now looking like 10....if I'm lucky. 1/2 a BBQ sandwich in my belly I'm doing alright. Feeling somewhat human after this extended break I decided to try again and see how things shake out. I grind out 9 and 10 and continue to flirt with dehydration sickness. Not quite as bad as before, but, not where I'd like to be either. More E-Caps and water and back to the single track.

Two more laps got me to 12 and I was actually feeling better at this point. 2 more laps and I'd have a century for the day. Yeah...I can do that, I have that much left in me. The sun is setting and the night riding is about to begin. Lights mounted David and I roll out together. The setting sun shoots beams of light through the pines and I'm feeling renewed. The next two laps go without incident or bouts of pain. 12 down and back at our pit I continue to eat and drink to feed my hungry body. A few Outlaws are heading out and I gear up to join them. Baler, David and I roll through the dark pine section and we start to spread out before the farm road. I don't see my teammates the rest of the lap, but I catch glimpses of their lights as we meander through the dark woods. Jon is on his last lap, #14, and David is working on #12.

Two more down and I have my century with 14 laps. I hear Becky is still rocking the course and is working on #15. In a zone, I head out for #15 as well. The course is becoming softer as the air is heavy with moister. The roots are getting slick and on several occasions my tires resist commands to track straight and true. These minor annoyances aside, I am finally feeling good and having fun. My head and stomach have stopped revolting and I can enjoy the ride. I come back in from lap 15 with 5 minutes to spare. I have no idea where I am in the standings and don't know if another lap will do anything to help. Jojo asks "how are you feeling", "fine" I respond and she suggests one last lap. That was a great suggestion. I was having fun, feeling good and one last lap did make a difference. It moved me up 5 spots from 9th to 4th.

Becky kicked ass the whole day and grabbed third place with 15 laps riding rigid single against a field of geared riders. Liz did amazing as well with 4th place and 15 laps riding single in the same category. Baler and David both knocked out 14 in the single solo group.

Rob and his crew put on a top notch event that gets better each year. The staff and volunteers should all be commended for all their hard work. Actually everyone did a great job. From the casual teams to the more serious ones. The vibe was amazing and the racing was top notch!

Photos by Gary Ryan @ http://blog.toofattorace.com/

Captain Awesome

2009-04-15T08:46:00.002-04:00

For DCTony

Damn right you are!

2009-04-02T09:56:00.004-04:00

You love it. You ride it. But you've never had a chance like this before. How about cutting 1 mile of new legal singletrack in the Frederick Watershed? MORE and PATC have been working with the City of Frederick to get permission build a big chunk of new trail to replace an eroded road bed that passes it self off as a trail. We want to get at least 40 workers out on Sunday April 5th to put a major dent in this project. That's a lot of people but this is a major opportunity to show the City what we are capable of building. Building a mile of trail is tough work, doing at the Watershed is even tougher, that's why we need a big turnout to get things moving quickly.

If you want to work but can't make it on Sunday a smaller crew will be going out on Saturday April 4th to do some corridor clearing and get the site prepped for Sunday's army of volunteers. We welcome help on either or both days. Please RSVP so we know how many people to expect each day and can plan accordingly.

Why is this such a big deal? Until now, authorized trail work in the Watershed has been confined to doing band-aid style fixes on the poorly laid out blue trail, fixes that should be large reroutes due to poor trail alignment. This is the first time the City has given the OK to build a major chunk of new trail. We have a cycling advocate on the City staff that is very much behind this project and has helped push this through, setting a good example with this pilot project will lead to more opportunities in the future. This project will take place between Sand Flats and Fishing Creek Road. You can see a map of the reroute here: [url]http://tinyurl.com/NewTrail[/url]

We are working on a food and beer supply for the workers. Stay tuned.

Also, if you work at a bike shop or some other business that would like to donate cash or swag to help us feed our workers or reward them for their hard work please contact me at [email]joewhitehair@yahoo.com[/email]. We will make sure everyone knows your business helped us with this project. Thanks!

*** Details ***
Contacts/Watershed liaisons:
David Kegley - [email]dkegley@gmail.com[/email]
Phil VanWerkhoven - [email]phil_vw@yahoo.com[/email]

What to bring:
Gloves, water, snacks, sturdy shoes. If you've got tools, we might need extras so we could use: shovels, picks, loppers, McCleods, rakes

Date and Time:
April 4th and 5th, 9:00 AM - arrive a bit early if you can so we can do our start our safety talk at 9am, then we'll be car pooling to the work site since there is limited parking where we will be working.

Location:
Sand Flats gravel parking lot. Gambrill Park Rd, approximately 3 miles north of Hamburg Rd. Directions from the I-70/270 junction can be found here: [url]http://tinyurl.com/sandflats[/url]

Question? Just ask! Thanks!

Destination Brewpub

2009-03-29T21:38:00.004-04:00

Rolled up to Frederick with DKEG today. Cloudy at first with the threat of rain, then the sun popped out as we approached Sugarloaf. This has happened to David and me in the past. A questionable ride turns beautiful in the shadow of the mountain. We made good time and decided to grab lunch and a beer at the Brew Pub in Frederick. An outside table on this beautiful day seemed like a good call and patio filled up fast. Joe and julie met us for a beer and the weather changed quickly while we ate.

Dark clouds and gusty wind moved in and the temperature dropped like a rock in a matter of minutes. Our beautiful day was slipping away and we were only half done with the ride. Moving inside, we finished our beers and decided to get moving. The sun re-appeared, but, ominous clouds were ever present. Headed south we were trying to out ride a fast moving front and got caught near Urbana. A little later that same fast front passed us and the sun emerged again. This was going the be the pattern until the rides conclusion. Our only real concern was the lightning we saw off in the distance. A little rain never killed anyone, but lightning......that's another story. We had to deal with some rain, but, the lightning and thunder stayed well clear, thankfully.

For a day that started off questionably, I must say we had a great ride. Sure, I had a couple flats, we got caught in some rain, but, considering the weather yesterday, I think we came out ahead. Just under 65 miles, a couple IPA's, a plate of calamari and a chicken wrap. That's a pretty good day in my book. Thanks for the ride DKEG!

and the photos.

Riding bikes is fun

2009-03-25T21:11:00.002-04:00

.....or at least I thought it was supposed to be. I went for a little road ride today, trying to beat the impending rain. While I was out, I passed 6 other bikers. The first one looked like a casual kind of rider, no flashy kit or bike, just out for a ride. As I passed, I said howdy and he tossed out a waive and a smile. The next 4 guys were the polar opposite. Team kits, weight weenie rides, hell, one guy was simply sporting a euro bike cap sans helmet. I tossed out the same greeting to each of these guys and nothing. No nod, waive or acknowledgment that I was even on the same stretch of road. The last guy (#6) cruising down the road on his "comfort bike", he knew what it's all about. He took the nano second required and returned my greeting.

2 thru 4.......WTF??

Sherman & Veach Gaps, EF

2009-03-23T11:52:00.001-04:00

The EF ride was awesome, even with all the mishaps. Camp had a plan, ride up Sherman, down Veach, over to Mine and hit stuff on both sides of the valley. It was going to be a long, hard day. Weather gods smiled upon us and it was going to be a spectacular day. 28 at the beginning, high near 60 meant extra layers were going to be shed. The approach up Sherman was rocky goodness. The first section paralleled the stream with not much elevation gain. A fine technical warm up before the hard work began. As the grade increased, so did our effort and the Big Dog was owning the climbs. JoeP and I were grinding up some steep stuff and Camp suggested we pull it back and save ourselves. "Lots more climbing ahead" he mentioned and he wasn't kidding. The trail took a turn for the nasty and we were doing a lot of hike-a-bike. Way more than I cared for and I started to question the route. The final pitch was simply ridiculous and Darius resorted to portaging his bike. I opted to push, but, had to carry it over numerous "steps" were your footing was questionable.

Dkeg suffered the first two of 4 flats after we made the turn onto Veach Gap. Insanely tight tires made these flats troublesome (to say the least) and our ride organizer was getting frustrated after getting his third just moments after 1 and 2. Fresh eyes and hands took care of the potential issue as we cracked a couple cold ones to pass the time.Patched and re-fueled, we headed down the Veach Gap. Each new high speed turn down the rock strewn trail made that miserable climb a fading memory. Our hoots could be heard through the woods as our group snaked down the twisted trail. A section of high speed double track caused David to suffer his forth flat and Darius' first. I'm sure these mechanicals weighed heavily on David as we entered the last section of rocky terrain and the semi-dry stream bed.

Wet tires and off-chamber rocks are hard to negotiate when your mind is clear (just ask JoeP who went OTB on one section), when concerned with multiple flats, I know it's hard to go with the flow. I assume this is what happened to David as he stuffed his front wheel in this section and went down hard, on his face. I was trying to clip in when I saw it happen and knew there was a problem when he just laid there, bike twisted on top of his body. I pulled the bike off him and saw a lot of blood on the rocks below. A major face plant resulted in a split upper lip and a broken tooth. Joe ran back grabbed David's bike and we got him moving after locating a napkin to handle the blood. The one saving grace was that we were at the bottom, done with the rocks and had smooth double track until meeting the others at the road.

We still had 4 or 5 miles of road riding before the cars and proper first aid kits. The road through the valley is beautiful, but, narrow roads and impatient drivers can make it quite dangerous. Another casualty of the ride was my camera that got dropped while taking a picture of an old well pump. JoeP suffered an apparent pinch flat on the road (not sure how) and we were passed by a runner for the second time that day. Our humbling ride ended with Darius patching up DKEG's lip with Steri Strips and beer. We dropped off Darius and decided to hit the ER at Frederick Memorial. Several hours later David's lip was all stitched up and looking better.

After all the chaos, all the flats, all the hike-a-bike, the one memory that out shines them all was that descent down Veach. It was that good and I want to hit it again.......soon!

2009-03-20T20:44:00.001-04:00

Man, I'm slacking. Really doesn't matter as no one reads blogs any more. Apparently Face Book (and twitter) is where all the cool kids hang out these days. I'm going to hang out under the bleachers, smoking cigs, a little longer before I make the plunge. I really like to wait until a technology is on the down-turn before I embrace it. By my calculations, should be the middle of next week.

Outlaw ride and party a couple weeks ago was fun. Ricky and I switched bikes for a little. That old Specialized he stole is nice. The chopped down bars were squirrely, but other than that is was a sweet ride...and fast. We got razed by a bunch of bikers ( the leather clad, Harley kind) when we stopped for mid-ride beers at Daniel's. By the time we left, there were small groups of us talking story with the throttle twisters. One guy even stopped traffic so we could safely cross the street. That was kinda cool. Then there was the old guy in a pickup who cut in front of us and threw his door open. RiderX was all in his face ( never seen that before). Back at Jay's the beer was flowing and the food was abundant. We even got some business done in the way of jersey fittings. Fire pit in the back yard topped off a good day.

Let's see, the weekday rides have been moved to Thursday and we had a good one last week. Shed to Gambrill through the Valley of Death. Tough for sure. Nice to do an after work ride when the sun is still shining. This past Wednesday we finished off the Gambrill Graveyard Shift rides for the year. Only 4 in attendance, DKEG, RiderX, Victor and me. Fast laps, minimal stopping left plenty of time for brews at the Pub. No table this time, hung bar side, feasted on the buffet and got $2 dollar beers......sweet!

First day of Spring was today and I hit a "not-so-quick" recon of Schaeffer. Cleared a bunch of crap off the trails, tried to use the new "unbeleiveable saw" on some big stuff that kicked it's ass (and mine). Great saw for soft woods, not so great for 8" hard woods. I lost my GPS at some point. Went to check the time and it wasn't there. Musta has some good kharma working cuz I found it on the back side of a tree I hopped. Could have been an expensive day. Trails are in great shape and only have a few trees to cut. Need to take care of that soon as people have already created ride-arounds......on the first day. Geez!

Elizabeth Furnace with a strong crew on Sunday. I'll try to take pics and post something about the ride. Should be a stellar day.

2009 SSOPBE

2009-02-16T13:18:00.000-05:00

Ah the pain, reminds us we are still alive.

The Outlaw hosted his annual event in the woods of Frederick on Sunday. The weather people called for sunny skies and temps in the mid 40's. A brief storm rolled through G-Town the night before and, fortunately, didn't didn't deposit much rain. Packing the car the next morning, the warm sun and dry ground implied a mild day and I packed accordingly. The drive up exposed one simple truth, the mountain does not conform to suburban Germantown weather patterns. Snow had fallen during the night and it got deeper as we gained altitude. Not a lot mind you, but, enough to give concern as my winter boots were safely nestled away......at home. My summer shoes and thick wool socks would have to do as we played in Mother Natures bounty.

The lot was packed and roadside parking was the only thing left. Camps and a few of the PA boys parked behind us and laughed as I explained my footwear faux pas. "It's February...and your in the mountains" or words to that effect was his response. True, but, it was nice in my driveway. Anyway, the word was out and there were at lot of people in attendance. A couple pros from the Trek team were there as well as the usual bunch of fast guys. Throw in a nice layer of fresh snow, to make things interesting, and today was going to hurt.

I didn't know how the day was going to shake out, but, I did well on the first stage (3rd) and thought I'd push it while I had the energy. Stage two up the cut-through and down Lawnmower was fun and I finished well enough for some more points. The Big Dog contested my passing him over a log, but, all's fair at the Punk Bike if you ask me. Third stage was over the rocks and up to the entrance for Rusted Bug, I got some points on that one as well. Fourth stage was the obligatory "bike swap" stage and I was lucky enough to find one with SPD's and sorta in my size. I grabbed Sweetcheeks Linsky and with the exception of being a tad tall, it rode really well. Tommy (Tomi Cog) somehow grabbed a geared bike and was unsure what to do with the multi-geared beast. The short climb before the Rusted Bug revealed the reason so many of us ride one gear as it slipped when Tommy tried to mash down on the climb. Seizing the opportunity I jumped ahead and never looked back. Home field advantage has it perks as I pulled my only stage win of the day.

Two more stages before the beer break. First one started on Knuckle Buster and went down Blue to the pond. The road climb before the trail revealed that I was loosing steam. My asthma was acting up and it was hard to fill my lungs with enough oxygen. Light headed, I pushed as hard as I could and the descent on Blue was a welcome section. I got some points, just barely. Last stage before the break and I did everything wrong. Bad starting position, not prepared for the start and poor line choice deprived me of any points for the first time that day.

***Intermission***
RiderX and James did an amazing job with site selection this year. On top of the mountain in a secluded nook; that was the perfect place for a campfire and a keg. Peg Leg Imperial Stout was the beverage du jour provide from team sponsor Clipper City. Walsh and his lady hooked me up with some Girl Scout cookies while we waited to fill our cups. About the only thing missing was the beef jerky I left in the car. Mel's fire was a great way to warm your bones on this cold winter day. I have to wonder what was going through the gravity guys heads as they stumbled upon our little group on their way down the hill.

Dab/No Dab was the next stage after our descent off the summit. I dabbed, no points on this round. The next stage, DeLauther Rd., was a brutal climbing stage that started off with the racers going through the ford. I pushed up the hill, with soaking wet feet, and was able to pick off a few people along the way. Seconds before the finish, Tommy prematurely raises his hands for some stage points as I swooped in and snatched them from the Outlaw. Always the good sport, he laughs it off as I apologize for the maneuver.

The lungs are now burning and I'm very light-headed at the conclusion of each stage. Stephen and I line up near the front and he takes off like a shot from the start. I'm in pursuit, but, I wouldn't call it a hot one. Before a short climb, I bounce off a rock and two or three guys pass me on the short climb. Back on I chase, but, can't make up the gap. I get a couple points, however, I'm cooked. The final stage was a short one and I made no effort to line up near the front. Therefore, I had a lot of traffic to move through. After the stream crossing, I get some encouragement from Spearman and tap into some reserve I thought was spent. A couple hard kicks later, I moved up three spots and ended with some points. In hindsight, I'm glad I didn't lay down on that last stage. "Leave it all out on the course" is the saying and my dry, hacking, uncontrollable coughs are a testament I did just that.

A long slow grind up Blue got us back to the cars and the points tally. I ended up with a respectable 59 points and was happy to be done. Jeff and Anna were to be the overall leaders for the day and crowned the 2009 Single Speed Outlaw Punk Bike Enduro King and Queen. I heard Jeff had accumulated 140+ points on the day. Insane! I'd love to see a breakdown of all the points leaders. Hopefully RiderX will provide that information. Win or lose, it was an incredible day and one I really look forward to. Good times with a bunch of friends in the woods. Just doesn't get any better than this!

Additional Photos from DKEG & RiderX

2009-02-09T15:59:00.000-05:00

More snow and ice for the Wednesday night ride @ Gambrill. I brewed up some studded tires over the weekend and had to give them a go. Traction was excellent and really helped on the descents, however, the studs were like talons and held on to exposed trail debris. Cutting first tracks through Styrofoam snow wasn't a picnic either. Still, the 5 brave souls pick our way through the woods and had a great time. The Big Dog and Sweetcheeks were riding strong and made some nasty climbs.

Close to the finish Frank suggested the black trail and I was the only taker. The others made a bee line to the cars as we negotiated an exposed line on the top of the mountain being pummeled with high winds and low temps. First time I ever rode that section and hope to put it into regular rotation. PLB's were minimal as the temperature (13 degrees) did not encourage socializing.

M.O.R.E winter party was this past Saturday and (as always) it was a great time. Party organizer Liz did a fantastic job with the arrangements, JoeP produced another entertaining film and the beer selection grew with DFH stepping up as a new sponsor. Add the keg donations from Shenandoah Brewing and Outlaw sponsor Clipper City Brewing into the mix and it's no wonder my head hurt so much in the morning. There was also a short video produce by a couple young guys, like 17 years old. From the opening shot you knew these guys were talented. Everything from camera work to post production was phenomenal. Hell, they made Wakefield look good and that's no easy feat. I hear they are shooting in Gambrill and the Shed now. I can't wait to see that one.

More hungover than I have been in a long time, Sunday was slated to be a big, hard ride on the gravel roads of Frederick. I picked up DKEG about 8 and seriously thought about bailing, I was so bad off. I knew the group would show no mercy and I was looking at a painful day in the saddle. Cross bikes were the weapon of choice as the recent temps were sure to melt off all the snow we enjoyed just 4 days prior. All this melt-off was going to produce some sloppy trails. On the car ride up I labored to eat a banana and drink some Gatorade. Upon arrival RiderX takes one look at me and laughs as he says I have Ricky to blame. "For what?" I inquire. For the sufferfest he has planned as payback. Payback for Ricky's last minute ride bailout the day before, I'm told. Yeah, this is gonna suck.

As we ride, the pounding in my head starts to subside and the warm sun felt good on my face. Ricky flats twice before we get to any real climbs and we take the opportunity to drop a layer before the hard work ahead. As the grade increases, so does the mud. The gravel roads covered with ice the day before are now wet, soft and slow. After the first pitch my hangover is a distant memory and there is now work to be done. Joe and I pull away from the others and push the hill as it pushes back. At the top Joe comments how we should have packed some beers. I actually agreed with him. Some 43 miles and 4600 feet of climbing later, we did enjoy a couple cold ones at the Outlaws house.

Turning a corner

2009-01-28T12:08:00.000-05:00

Been getting in some good rides lately of the bike and ski variety. Throw in a winter party somewhere in the middle and it's been a sweet couple weeks.

Two Wednesdays ago a few of us went to Liberty when a serious cold spell hit the area. With temps in the 20's the local resorts were pumping out as much snow as they could in preparation for MLK's birthday and the inauguration. The "snow from a can" as Camps called it was thick and dry and made for some fun runs. Not the best stuff in the world, but, it beats icy hills any day of the week. Joe, Jay, Larry, my brother Keith and I played on the backside most of the night. Jay gets special recognition for bringing a flask of GM. Unfortunately that small flask didn't last long when 5 guys are hitting it. After a few more runs we remedied that with a visit to the tavern. A couple Hop Backs later we finished the night with a few more runs and one more plb before heading home.

Saturday night Mr. & Mrs. Outlaw hosted a fine Winter Festivus. As expected, the beer selection was top notch, the food was yummy and the company was outstanding. DKEG and I were officially welcomed into the Outlaws, although the initiation ritual need to be postponed. Something about Stoner losing the gerbil..... Dodging that bullet we settled in with some beer sampling and conversation. As the night progressed, the artistic side of the inebriated guests came out and Joe's refrigerator was to be the canvass. Barb and I had to head out to relieve the babysitter just as things were getting interesting on the chalkboard. I really need to find the email with those pics.

The next morning DKEG, Sweetcheeks and I got in a short ride at the Shed. We did an out and back on Busted Knuckles, Rusted Bug and Lawnmower. Snow on top of ice made for some interesting climbs and sketchy descents. Busted Knuckles was riding very nice and it was good to get some tires on the young trail. Sadly, those 7 miles didn't make a dent in the calories we consumed at Il Forno. Best damn pizza around tho!

Wednesday night was another Gambrill ride and I was sporting my newly converted triple LED. Again the trails were covered with ice and snow and I learned that Kenda Karma's, while great race and rock tires, don't do so well in the snow. A few slides while driving into a turn meant I needed to ride a tad conservative unless I wanted another trip to the ER. The LED, on the other hand, performed flawlessly and threw out a spectacular beam. All I need to do now is build up a 4 cell battery to run on the helmet and that light will be perfect. The 6 cell pack I ran in my hydration pack is great and provides for long run times, however, I have now become spoiled and love the freedom of having everything helmet mounted. With temps in the teens we could only muster up 6 souls for the nights ride. The reduced number worked in our favor and we kept a steady pace with a singular mechanical. RiderX had a small issue with his light mount, it broke, but, we were close to the finish and it was repaired quickly. This ride was followed by the second best pizza in Frederick and beers at the brewpub. Gonzo Imperial Porter from Flying Dog on tap, that was a nice surprise.

This past Sunday we did another snow/ice ride in the Shed and we actually got in some decent miles. Did the southern/northern loops option and the trails were fast...and frozen. I think someone said it was 14 degrees when we started, sure did feel that way. However, it was a beautiful sunny day and the low temps didn't seem to bother anyone. Carlo's bike was another story and his rear shock didn't seem to care for the cold weather much. Try as we might, it just wouldn't hold air and he had to cut his ride short at the end of Dave's trail. While he took the road back to his car, the rest of us headed towards lawnmower. With the exception of a couple turns, the trail was in good shape and rode fast. From there we headed down an icy Rusted Bug and over to a very nice Busted Knuckles. That twisty trail only had a dusting of snow at this point and provided many smiles from the group. After it re-joined the Blue we headed down, over to little cannan and then towards Death March. Sweetcheeks was riding well and hot in pursuit on the climb. DKEG was looking particularly good and was only moments behind us with Liz and Greg close behind. We decided to stay on Blue and loop back towards Sand Flats. This should give us about 15 miles and a nice ride on a cold winter day. A couple icy spots on "Not Blue" made the climb impossible and a quick dismount was necessary. From the top we took the connector to Blue down into Crystal Clear pond. True to it's name the pond was clear as a bell with a thin layer of ice on top. Blue rode fast all the way back to Buck Flats and that rode well back to the cars. We did get our 15 in for the day and then a quick detour to 7th street for a little fridge re-stock. Road-runners were in order.

Last night a little more ski action as a small storm moved into the area. We pushed the Wednesday plan up a night do to the "wintery mix" forecasted for our regular night. I rolled out early to beat the traffic and get in some extra turns. Apparently everyone else had the same idea. With schools out and snow falling many people hit the slopes to enjoy snow not "from a can". After a slight altercation with some young punk, I head straight to the back side to enjoy Mother Natures bounty. Conditions were the best I've experienced in a long time and I was finally "feeling the back foot", hence the title for my post. Took a long time to get to this point, but there it is. I was feeling it last night and it felt good! Conditions aside, that was the best night I've ever had on the teles and I was stoked. I was actually driving the skis instead of being a passenger. Now, I wasn't driving them hard and I certainly wasn't popping out rapid jump turns down the bumps, but, I was able to trust them. I could ski the edge of the trail and not fear that I would blow a turn and end up in the trees. It's a great feeling when you turn that corner.

After a couple runs I see Camps and he's with a sizable group of locals, most of them freeheeling. Introductions done the group hits a couple runs and we had our own mini "telefest". Just as they are about to call it a night I hear some shouts from the lift and see Julie, Joe and Becky. Larry and I head up to meet them at the summit. Our group of 5 will spend the rest of the night together. Around 7:30 the people start to thin out just as the snow kicks up a notch. Sweet silent snow has replaced the sound of ice normally associated with these hills. It's a great sound....or lack there of. The night plays out beautifully as conditions improved. The legs are not feeling the burn I normally feel after repeated lunges down a hill. I guess that's another corner I've turned. Around 9 we decide a little refreshment is in order, a round (or two) later the drive home will be on icy roads as the snow has given way to freezing rain. Today things are a mess and most everything is covered by a blanket of ice. I'm glad we moved things up a day.

My aching knees

2009-01-11T20:31:00.000-05:00

Spent 6 hours destroying my legs and knees at Whitetail today. The new planks are sweet, I just wish I could do them justice. Conditions weren't bad and were actually better than I thought. It basically rained down here all night and I wasn't expecting much. I knew things would be ok, however, when I saw snow in the tree tops as I crested the first mountain of Frederick. "Good things are happening at higher elevations" a friend used to say. Of course, he was talking about the Sierra Nevada's, but, the principle works here as well.

Whitetails "telefest" was going on and the hill was littered with tele skiers. Most would be attending the various clinic's happening for the 6th annual event. I got up too late to make the classes and truth be told, I just wanted to make some turns on my own schedule. I do, however, got to get me some schooling some day. Telepalooza at Seven Springs perhaps?? I eventually ran into Larry and Mike, just as my legs were ready to call it quits. Both these guys are good skiiers and I felt bad they had to wait for my sorry ass. Still, it is good to push yourself and follow better people. Chasing after these guys was a lot of fun and a little painful. Someday....hopefully.

Phase 2

2009-01-04T21:04:00.000-05:00

An endless supply of snacks makes for a very nice day

You're never too young to lop.

You can't go wrong when you're hanging out with friends

2009-01-01T21:24:00.000-05:00

First day on the new Kodiak's and they worked nicely. The Hammerheads kept things in check, the skis held a solid edge and turned with minimal input from the pilot. Everything I was hoping for and more. Now, all I have to do is work on some endurance and I'll be set.

I met Camps and Oliver at Whitetail and the Zen master showed me some cool tricks to improve my technique. Larry is trying to get me to do goofy foot turns, reversing the normal tele turn and to be honest, I was happy to just make clean runs. Meanwhile, Oliver, is ripping down the hill like a seasoned pro. Apparently a secret chocolate stash is the secret to skiing with kids.

Larry in the terrain park. New ways to hurt yourself.

Top photo courtesy of Camp

Happy Holidays

2008-12-30T15:45:00.000-05:00

I've definitely slacked off with the blog the last few weeks. I'll just blame it on the hectic holidays (like everyone else). The good news is I haven't lost all sanity and shot anyone, burned down any houses or carpet bombed towns filled with small children. Ah, I love the way the holidays bring all of humanity a little closer. Brings a tear to my eyes, just wish it was one of joy.

Bringing it down a notch and a little closer to home, the holidays have been pretty good to me. I kicked off the season with the Hoppy Holidaze ride into Baltimore with a gaggle of Outlaws and one Victor. I met the group at the 195 Park N Ride. I parked and we rode into the city for some beer, grub and kick ass music from the All Mighty Senators. First stop was at Max's on Broadway to get properly lubricated before the show. I must say, Max's has one fine beer selection. More beer on tap than any place I've ever seen and a mind numbing amount in bottles. I stuck with several different offerings from Stone Brewing Co., but, one word of caution, the smoked porter is VERY smokey. Like this thing sat over a campfire for a week smokey. From Max's it was off to the 8x10 to hear some music. Sitali was the opening band and they were pretty good. Similar to Fishbone, this trio had a big, fast sound infused with lots of humor. AMS came next and I knew I was in for a treat when a fluffy pink drum kit was placed front and center. I've heard of the band before and regret waiting so long to catch their show. It was in a word, AWESOME! Lead singer Landis Expandis has an energy rarely seen and the fusion of rock, soul and funk is truly unique. Do yourself a favor and check them out, you will not regret it. After the show we dismantled the pyramid of bikes and rolled out of the city in a very satisfying beer and funk induced haze.

Next was some fine family and friends fun when a group of us loaded up the (shutter) minivans and checked out the winter lights at Seneca Creek State Park. The kids had a great time singing holiday songs as we drove through the displays. Frank and Lisa invited everyone back to their place for mulled cider and baked treats. Most of the parents opted for adult style beverages over the cider and the good doctor keeps a fine selection at home.

Christmas eve, eve we decide to brave the cold and check out the National Tree down in DC. Again, this was a family oriented trip and the kids really seemed to have fun on the trip down. We had our own car on the Metro for a good portion and the wee ones wrecked havoc when the opportunity arose. Naomi braved the long line to see Santa as the rest of us checked out the sights. After their holiday fill the kids decided wrestling David was more fun than looking at some stinking tree and they took him to the ground with ease. On the walk back we searched in vain for hot chocolate and ended up getting juice boxes and coffee from McDonald's. Not quite the ending we were hoping for, but, the kids didn't seem to mind.

Christmas eve was spent at my sisters house, the kids did a fine job destroying her house before Santa's arrival. Next morning was spent watching the kids rip through a mountain of toys and then dinner at my brothers a little later in the day.

Saturday, feeling all that cheer around my mid-section, I was able to squeeze in a quick road ride while the family napped. The weather was nice and apparently a lot of people felt the need to burn those holiday calories off as well. I saw numerous riders out over those 21 miles.

Sunday was my "big ride" day, however, there was not much chatter from the gang about a ride. RiderX and I had exchanged emails about possibly hitting Raystown or Michaux, but, the weather had other plans and we decided to stay local and ride the Shed. A tentative plan in place I get a call from DaveG and then one from Tim. Dave wants to beat the rain and we think an early start @ 9 would be in order. New plan in place I catch wind of a ride from Sandflats at 10 and think we can hook up with the larger group as we head north towards Salamander. Timing was almost perfect as our small group of three roll into Sandflats shortly after 10. Ricky, sporting his signature red knickers, was just pulling his bike off the roof and Darius (true to form) was tinkering with his. Stoner, Camps, Bunky, Mike Miller, Mrs. Outlaw, Bek, Jojo, Anne and Lynn were also there and it was great to see everyone out and about. The only one missing was Tony and he's the one who suggested the ride the night before.

Tim and I help the Big Dog install some new brake pads while with for DC Tony to show. About 10:30 he's still not there and my original group is getting the itch to get moving. We are on a schedule and still have lot's of ground to cover. Hoping we will run into everyone out on the trail we bid everyone adue and head towards Salamander. Bunky and Mike jump on and we are now 5. The pervious nights rain has made things slicker than snot and I get thrown to the ground, hard, when my front wheel washes out over a log. My head, shoulder and shin all take a good wack and I require a few moments to regain composure. We roll all of Sally and then take Blue towards Super Sweet. The single track, with it's rock base, is solid enough, but, the fire roads and utility cut-throughs are SOFT and sap tons of energy as we negotiate around the trails. At the 3 way we convince Bunky to stay with the group and ride Super Sweet. I go down two more times on Rock Candy and seem to hit the same spot on my left shin each time. Still, even wet and slippery the trail is a hoot and I'm glad we decided to burn the elevation. At the road, Mike and Bunky turn left, while Tim, Dave and I go right. We decide to road it back to the lot, lick our wounded egos (and my wounds) and save ourselves for another day. The road ride out, however, is not to be taken lightly and some serious climbing lay before us. Running low on gas we pushed hard on those final pitches and finally made it back to the cars. My GPS was having fits that day and I estimate we covered about 20 miles, however, it felt more like 40. Tim and I finish off the day with a killer lunch at Poblano's, which needs to be put into regular rotation now.

The mailman delivered a special package that I've been anxiously awaiting. A new pair of Karhu Kodiak telemark skis and Hammer-Head bindings. These skis are FAT, much wider than my old Tua's and hopefully a little easier to ski. The last couple winters have been very frustrating for me in that I'm just not progressing with my free-heel technique. I'll have a couple good runs and then cross a ski, go down hard and twist a knee in the process. That's about the time I'm forced to put the planks away and bust out my trusty board. It also means I'm not spending the required time on my skis. I hope the new gear will change things up this winter. I guess I'll find out tomorrow when I put these babies to the test. Big thanks to Camps for lending me a couple DVD's of the free-heel variety. One was instructional and one was pure powder porn. Reviews to follow soon....or a trip to the ER.

Sno n Meeshow

2008-12-08T16:56:00.000-05:00

After numerous emails (what happened to the flow chart?) and some grumbles about cold weather, the Sunday ride was finalized and we stayed with the original Michaux plan. Camps opted in late Saturday night and there was still no word from Scuba Steve....or anyone else for that matter. Saturday saw some flurries and a nice dusting on the ground by Sunday morning. There was a definite chill in the air as the G-Town/Burg contingent headed north to pick up the Big Dog. Upon arrival we were happy to see Tony, who apparently showed up around 10 the night before, was going to join in the fun. Of course, true to form, Tony and Darius had to tinker with something before we could leave and this mornings project was Tony's bike mount. Once we saw the Allen wrench go through the sunroof we knew it was going to be a "special" day.

We met up with Larry at the Totem Pole parking lot and the wind was howling. Any expose skin was instantly stung with the biting cold of an icy wind. Questioning our sanity we moved to a slightly less exposed parking lot and that made all the difference. Layered up and with a pre-ride taster in our bellies we headed up the mountain for a long sustained climb up yellow. The dry snow on top of the leaves made for limited traction, but, at least we weren't cold any longer. Larry and Darius played tour guide and the trails took on a whole new personality with the wintery covering. Several of the trails we hit I have ridden before and a few were new to me. All were good. Michaux has some exceptional riding and I highly recommend making the MBM rides if you want to explore the trails.

We stopped periodically for photo ops and to talk about possible routes. Half the stuff up there doesn't have a name, so, make sure you travel with someone in the know. When in doubt just call the trail "connector" and go about your business. It was on one of these "connectors" that "that guy" Tony lost a chainring bolt or two and tacoed a beautiful Boones Ti chainring. In the process he also broke an arm of his crank spider. With no hope of repair his ride came to an abrupt end. At the road the guys inform him of a road route back to the cars which is mostly downhill. Not one to send a person off alone, I opt to hang with him and get an early start on the beer drinking. We walk, roll down and push our way back to the cars and crack a couple 60 minutes upon arrival. The rest of the crew is only 20 minutes or so behind us and Larry invites the lot back to his place for beer and Chili. Of course, we have the obligatory stop over at the Chambersburg Pump Track for some heart pounding, thigh burning fun before the feast.

Big thanks to Kim & Larry for the hospitality.

Pump Track

Doggie Style

2008-12-01T10:50:00.001-05:00

I thought that would get your attention.

I got back from the beach around 1 on Saturday and had to squeeze in a ride. Barb was leaving for NY early Sunday morning, so, that meant no "ride with the guys" that day. I give DKEG a call to see if he made it back from his trip and interested in joining me. He was and the next decision was where and what type of ride to do. Schaeffer and the Shed were closed for hunting, a road ride seemed too pedestrian and Gambrill meant getting back in the car. A quick check of park closures revealed that the HMC and Blackhills were open, so, we grab the cross bikes and decided a mixed surface ride to Sugarloaf would be nice on this beautiful post Turkey Day ride.

David's C'Dale has been set up SS ever since the IC debacle. My TriCross hasn't seen any love since that race and she gets pulled down for the days ride. I quickly install some pedals and lube the chain and we are ready to roll. The skies are clear, the sun is warm on this Autumn day and we shed a layer before heading out. On the HMC we come across the nearly completed bridge that has been in the works for some time. A couple quick snaps and we are moving again. Once we pop out on the road a decision needs to be made. The subject of Flying Dog Brewery came up at my house as did Blackhills. If we ride over to the single track of the park, we probably won't make last call at the brewery, however, if we make the trek up North we WILL run out of light and neither of us are packing supplemental lighting. We decide to pass on Blackhills, make our way to Sugarlaof and re-assess time at the mountain.

DKEG really knows the back roads through this area and we are having a spectacular ride. Rolling hills with pocket horse ranches and farms sprinkle the landscape. The sun is warm on our faces and the still air is filled with the smells of fall. We pick up the second of our gravel roads outside of Barnsville with views of Sugarloaf off in the distance. The washboard ripples make taking pictures a little challenging, but we get a couple good ones to document the route. Near the mountain we pick up Mt. Ephriam and take this around the base of the mountain. A quick left on Park Mills and then back to the gravel and Monocacy Bottom Rd. This "road" is very wet with numerous puddles and I fear the stream will be more swollen than usual. My fears confirmed I get a good run up to the stream and make it all the way across. Unfortunately, the water was deep and my feet got just as wet as if I would have walked across. David wearing his Lake winter boots didn't have the same concerns. Back on the road I'm thankful the temps are so mild, my feet are soaked and we have plenty of riding before we are done.

We pop out on 80 for a moment and then a quick right on Michaels Mill Rd. This is a great little road that skirts along the Monocacy river and a beautiful old stone house overlooking the river. It is a short, but, very sweet section of road that brings you into the quaint borough of Buckeystown and route 85. From here we know our final destination is just minutes away. This section of road is the busiest and least appealing one we've been on all day. It is a necessary evil I guess with no real viable options. Once out of Buckeystown, we pedal for a mile or so and quickly turn left into a massive industrial complex and English Muffin Way. Had we turned right we would encounter the Thomas's English Muffin plant for which the road is named. Our direction brings us to the Flying Dog Brewery and the Saturday afternoon "tasting".

From 1 until 4:30 or so, 5 bucks will get you a souvenir pint glass and and as many free "samples" of the brewery's offerings you care to try. Many a head turned as David and I entered the packed tasting room. I guess helmets and hydration packs are not common attire, but , we didn't care. Our first attempt to visit the brewery was met with locked doors. We were happy that fortune smiled upon us this day. I started with their Gonzo Imperial Porter which helped to bring feeling back into my slightly chilled feet. I don't recall what David sampled first, but, I know it put an instant smile on his face. I tried and liked the Barley Wine, but, was less than impressed with their double IPA. It seemed rushed to keg and had a bitter after-taste. Another unusual beer was the Smoked Lager, it was like bacon in a glass....and I like bacon.....just not in a glass. The brewery shares it's operation with Frederick Brewing and the Wild Goose line of beers. So, their offerings were also available to the curious patron. I tried a short glass of the Pumpkin Patch which was nice and subtle with hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger. The Snow Goose was another seasonal of note. I finished up the same way I started, with a Gonzo Porter. Shortly before 5 the staff informed us we had to vacate the premises. Good thing David called his wife Lisa when we reached Sugarloaf. Our ride home had been established and I was thankful for the lift. The short bike ride to Buckeystown was fun in our slightly buzzed state of mind, however, my feet were getting cold again and there was no warming sun to provide relief. With impeccable timing, Lisa and the boys arrived at our extraction point the exact moment we did. No waiting around in the cold for us....which was sweet! On the way home we regaled Lisa with tales from our ride and she just shook her head in wonder. Wondering how two grown men can have so much fun on a couple bikes.

Oh, did I mention it rained the whole next day?

Gobble gobble

2008-12-01T10:10:00.000-05:00

Turkey day 08 was spent down on the Eastern Shore with Grandma. Sunny skies and mild temps meant we were not hunkered down indoors all weekend and we made the best of the nice weather. Got on the road in the early am Thursday, breezed all the way to the beach and proceeded to stuff our faces most of the day. Mom was a little bummed when the turkey came out under-cooked and had to go back in the oven. Fortunately, it was only my family and we just continued to fill our bellies with crab dip and clams casino until the bird was done. Since Jonathan's birthday is so close to Thanksgiving, he received several gifts from Grandma and I had to split my time between eating and putting Transformers together. Jackie got a few toys as well cuz grandmothers just can't buy for one child.....you know.

The next day we headed down to the boardwalk to burn off a few calories. The skies were partly overcast and made for slightly cooler temps. Jonny kept eyeballing the arcades and was pestering us to no end. I spotted a flock of Seagulls being fed by a family and had the kids run after the birds. That kept them occupied for a little while and provided a few laughs for me. Of course, I was a little concerned about being crapped on by these flying rats. We escaped unscathed and decided to rent a 4 person surry for an hour. If you've never seen on of these, it's a four wheel, 4 person bike with a little canopy. Barb, my copilot, did a great job as the second engine and we really tore up the boardwalk. Just as we were getting ready to return the bike, I hear a voice calling me. Turns out the Kings were down for the weekend as well. Steve, Tracy, Sam and Maddy (with a couple friends) were staying in Bethany and were killing time on the boardwalk as well. We chatted for several minutes and bid them farewell as we had to head back to Grandma's house and round 2.

Back at her house I start pulling out Xmas decorations and help to get her house ready for the next holiday. The kids are back at it with their new toys and Mom is cooking up yet another feast for Friday night. It's going to take some serious rides to work all this food off.

Ahhh Bliss!

2008-11-03T15:12:00.000-05:00

Take one part mountain bike ride, one part home-brew tasting, throw in some fine grub, sprinkle with sunshine and you get the 2008 Bootlegger's Bliss. The Blue-Eyed Devil really did a great job of putting on this little pseudo-underground event. '08 marks the third installment of the Bliss and was my first time in attendance, I don't plan to make it my last.

Patapsco Valley State park was the backdrop for the days events and Jon "Baler" worked with Steve on a great route that took us on an amazing sampling of the trails. I was told we were planning on 12 or so miles, personally I didn't care. It was a spectacular day, I had great company and a beer in my bottle cage. About the only thing that would have made it better would have been a backup beverage for when the bottle went dry. Not concerned with hammering through the woods, I elected to hang back, help out and take some pictures when I could. Aside from a couple mechanicals and a few wet feet the group make it through the woods in one piece. I can't say the same for dcTony's chain. It broke twice during the ride and was eventually pieced together from several sources. The second repair seemed to take and the group made it back to the pavilion for the second half of the days events, the potlatch beer tasting and feast.

As Steve noted in his final email "The Bliss is a DIY-themed potlatch", no commercial beer or food was to enter the pavilion. At the conclusion of the ride, everyone set forth to present their offerings to the group. Both the food and beer was of the highest caliber and quantity. The beer selection was one of the most amazing I've ever witnessed. There were brews from many different styles that reflected both traditional and not so traditional recipes. Dark Irish Stouts, hopped up India Brown Ales, a Pumpkin Saison, Breakfast Stouts and so on. One of my personal favorites was Butch's Obama Chocolate Stout. The label alone made the beer highly sought after and I'd love to have one of his spoke cards. The same degree of care was put into everyone's food. Dave made some great pork BBQ and home-made rolls. There was a delicious Southwestern pasta salad, BBQ ribs, several chilies and Mike brought and shucked oysters on the half shell to name just a few. I decided some fresh cut fries and wings ala Scud would help to fill any wanting bellies. They seemed to be a hit as a group of hungry bikers always hovered close by.

While I was frying up wings and things a few people were having a go at a unicycle near the picnic table. Ricky borrowed the uni from JoeP and it was a big hit. I commented to someone that I use to ride one years ago (20+) and they suggested I give it a shot. Once a batch of wings got dropped I knew I'd have some time and gave it a whirl. I was rusty, to be sure, but like the old saying goes "it's just like riding a bike". After a few initial wobbles, I got my balance back and was able to stay upright for brief periods of time. After a few more beers my confidence grew and I foolishly rode the uni in the asphalt derby. I was probably more of a liability out there, but boy, it sure was fun.....and HARD! I sweat more during the derby than I did during the entire ride. Derby concluded we adjourn to the picnic tables for the obligatory trials session. Dave Blum schooled all comers with his skills and made track stands look easy. My hat is off to you sir.

Shortly before sunset a ranger's truck comes the wrong way up a one way road, Baler takes note and correctly called that we would be asked to vacate the premises. Fortunately the fading light had already made that decision for us and we were well on our way with packing our belongings. The oil from my fryer was still a little warm and I hoped DKEG would not get burned by it on our way home. Last few items were placed in the truck when I realized I didn't have my souvenir pint glass to commemorate the day. I ask our host if he had any more and he produced what I believe to be the last one....and one from last year. Thanks Steve, I owe you a beer. Hell, after all the work you did and the amount of fun I had that day, I owe you a keg of beer.

I'll be back in 2009.

Additional photos from Icon O'Classt

Happy Halloween

2008-10-31T15:30:00.000-04:00

Glitter Graphics

I like that graphic, courtesy of Bligee.com.

The 3rd annual Halloween Ride @ Schaeffer has come and gone. We broke some attendance records, again, and I may need to ask for an exemption from the rider limit next year. This ride gets more and more popular every year.

I blew out of work a little early to get the tricks placed out on the trails and couldn't have asked for more perfect weather. Sunny, high in the sixties and crystal blue skies. This made the task of pulling a heavily loaded BOB trailer seem at bit less nauseating. Spider webs, ghostly brides and a variety of seasonal favorites peppered the trails on the eve of Halloween. Tricks in place I headed back to the lot for a quick beer and some final preparations. About this time a number of people were arriving including the Big Dog and DC Tony. Darius busted out the State Farm mascot bear and Tony did his best Dark Knight impression. Actually, most everyone came in costume this year, a nice change over the weak showing last year. Cathie won the "sexiest costume" award with a nice skin suite, Stoner got best decorated bike, mainly because Cathie already won something (she REALLY likes Halloween) and Jim got "most dangerous" costume. This goes out to the person who has the greatest chance at bodily injury do to costume malfunction.

After the awards we broke down into smaller groups and hit the trails. Some of the motion sensors didn't quite go off like I was hoping, so, some things were less than spectacular. However, we had some very spirited riders and they more than made up for the malfunctioning props. This year we even learned of an old graveyard from the 1800's out on the yellow loop. DKEG was tinkering with his wheel so a few of us went in search of the pre-civil war burial ground. Sure enough it was just up the gravel road a couple hundred yards. Tuck away off in the woods this old, unmaintained cemetary had the makings of a bad horror flick. You know the story line, a bunch of panksters get hacked to death while violating a grave on Halloween. Pretty standard stuff and I'm sure I cursed myself with some bad juju as I laid down for a photo opt in one of the depressed graves.

The pleasant daytime temps faded with the sun and some of the crew was getting a little cold. Several stream crossings and wet feet didn't help as the group was whittled down. By the time we hit the yellow/blue playground our original group of 12 was down to 4. Darius, DKEG, Jim and I pressed on and hit the interior yellow and crossed over to the white. We decided the hour was getting late and split up to retrieve the tricks from the trials. Some of the other riders beat us to most of the props and back in the lot we learned only a few remained on the outer white. Jim volunteered to give me a hand and we finished our task as fast as we could. Back in the lot a number of people waited for our return and then we met the rest of the riders at DogFish Head Brewery for some post ride libations and food.

Another Halloween ride for the books. People are already talking about next year. I can't wait!

True, true

2008-10-31T12:33:00.000-04:00

Watershed 911

2008-10-27T15:07:00.000-04:00

One of my oldest buddies, Capt. Pat, came into town this weekend and had but one request, singletrack, classic East Coast singletrack. Happy to oblige I round up the usual suspects and hope the weather clears for Sunday. Saturday was wet with storms most of the day and the front was supposed to move out later that day. Well, caulk one up for the weather people (about time) cuz the sky was crystal clear Saturday night and Sunday morning looked incredible.

Pat shows up a little early to assemble his airline boxed bike. We knock back a cuppa joe while we wrench and try to catch up on several years worth of news. His bike assembled I go to load the bikes on the car and notice a front flat on my ride. No worries, a quick tube swap and we were back in business. Pat notices what we thought to be a shipping scratch on the front plate of his Thompson stem. Merely a scratch we think and proceed to finish packing. Running a little behind schedule we meet up with a few others and get the carpool situation resolved. Headed north we continue to catch up and I look forward to showing him some of the rocky goodness in the "Shed".

In the p-lot the gang has assembled, I do some quick introductions and we continue to gear up. Just as we are ready to roll someone comments on the scratch Pat noticed earlier. Apparently it was not a scratch but a full blown crack, right down the middle of his face plate about half the length. Fortunately I have a spare stem in the car and we set forth to swap it out...quickly. The stem had other plans as one of the cinch bolts was stripped out and would not budge. With limited tools Pat thinks his ride will be scrubbed. Darius goes off in search of a drill, chainsaw....whatever he can find. I get the idea to just give him my face plate and put the spare stem on my bike. Spare in place, face plate swapped we were ready to roll.....again. If your keeping score we have had three mechanicals (so far) and haven't even started the ride yet.

Blasting down Blue Tony drops his chain twice and decides adding some tension might be a good idea. It was and he didn't drop it for the rest of the day. Pat is smiling ear to ear and we decide to hit Trail 6 and a little technical descent. We actually miss Trail 6 and come down the freeride trail, which is just as good when dry. The previous days rain and Autumn leaves made for some slick riding, but, everyone made it down in one piece and we were all still smiling. Rolled down to Death March and the climb up took its toll on our guest rider. Being on a boat and not on his bike, Pat was a tad out of shape and Death March let him know it. At the top of the climb we decided to modify our original plans and head over to Iceberg and do it in the Grebeci direction. While discussing these plans I decide to find out where a mysterious "clicking" noise is coming from on my bike. About the same time someone asks Phil if he planned on fixing his flat tire. Apparently, at some point, 1 of my chainring bolts fell out, the other three were VERY loose, Phil developed flat front tire and Liz' stem and handlebar bolts worked their way loose. She noticed some creaking on the climb and we decided to take a look, just in case. So let's see, that's 1..2...7, 7 mechanicals and we are at mile 4?? Oh, and Pat looks like he might hurl his breakfast if we do another climb anytime soon. Thank goodness it was a nice day otherwise all this might of sucked!

Over on Grebeci the going is slow but fun. Again, the wetness made things tough and this trail doesn't need any help in that department. We pick our way through the boulder fields, session a rock ledge and decide Table Rock will be a good place to crack our beers and take in a snack. Some more sessioning ensues and we are having a good time once again. Off Table Rock, we come down off the Ridge and onto the Roman Highway, bash our way to the S Turn and just couldn't convert it this time. As the rocks gave way to trees things were looking better and the pace picked up again. The trail gods weren't quite done with us and they demanded another sacrifice, however, this time it was to be a human one. DaveG slipped on a log-over and went down......HARD. He hit the side of his torso on part of the stump and heard a loud "snap", hoping it was lumber, knowing it was something else. Dave in agony, Liz and I volunteer to head back to the lot, get a vehicle and EVAC Dave out of the park. Darius suggests taking Mountaindale down and back up as the fastest route. I agree and head off.....in the wrong direction. I don't know what I was thinking, but, I went down Gambrill park road and essentially doubled my trip back to the car. Halfway down the mountain I realize my mistake and can do little but press on. I'm now committed to this direction.

Liz tells me to motor on, get the car and meet her on my way back down. I hit the gas, negotiate several long, steep climbs and try to make up some time. Bike on roof and a trail of dust behind me I pick up Liz as she finishes the last climb (of course). We kick in the after-burners and head down the road at a white-knuckle pace. Got back to the group at the trailhead and Dave is not looking good. Darius helps to pack all the bikes and gear in my truck and the four of us, Dave, Liz, Pat and myself head back to Hamburg to get Dave's car. Liz drove Dave in his truck, Pat and I follow in mine. We get him back to his place where Shannon is waiting to take him to the hospital. Sure enough, that cracking sound was two broken ribs. Dave is expected to be out for 4-6 weeks.

Get well soon Dave.

Oh, and Pat.....welcome to The Shed.

Sunday in the Shed

2008-10-20T15:35:00.000-04:00

Heaven and Hell

2008-10-14T11:39:00.000-04:00

AKA, The Iron Cross VI. That pretty much summed up Liz's description of the race and I can't say I'd disagree. You were either grinning ear to ear or cursing the sadistic bastard who designed the course.

This was my second year racing the IC and my first doing it on a SS. Like last year the race started off on a traditional CX course and the dizzying "vortex of death". A spiral near the center of the course with opposing traffic on either side. AC/DC blaring over the PA system, this has to be one of the coolest ways to start a race. Somehow the vortex didn't implode and all the riders were spit out to the roads and trails throughout Michaux State Forest in PA.

The cool Autumn air and perfect weather made for an exceptional day of racing. DKEG and I had talked the race up to a number of people we knew and quite a few actually showed up. It was awesome seeing a few more familiar faces this year. I had the pleasure of spending a bit of time with Aaron (HO) and Stephen throughout the race. Always a good thing when you can ride with some buddies.

Liz and Becky both raced in the SS division, which was not separated by sex. Liz's commuter was still sporting a fender and was switched from fixed to free early that morning. Baler was rolling fixed, JoeP on his Cross Check. DKEG, Aaron, Stephen and Camp (can you believe it!) decided multiple gears were the order for the day. This decision would come back to haunt David as numerous problems with shifting resulted in his early departure from the race. Through an interesting turn of events I'm the proud owner of a Specialized SingleCross and decided to race it instead of the new La Cruz. I'm not sure I made the right decision, but, it's a damn fine bike and was fun to race.

The great thing about the IC is the variety. You hit a little bit of everything during the race. CX course, roads, gravel, double track, single track and "run-ups" that require a climbing harness and ice axes. Well, that may be a bit much, but, the run-ups really are VERY steep and VERY long and a single mistake can result in serious injury. Just ask the MBM rider who broke her leg training for the IC. For me the best part is the single track. Popping through the woods on skinny tires, banging down loose rocky descents while in the drops is just silly fun. Sure, the roadies would crush me with their long trains on asphalt, but, I was grinning like a fool as I passed them on Lippencote while they shouldered their bikes over the smallest obstacle. Paybacks are hell.

Speaking of hell, the hills just demoralized you. Last year, when I had gears, they sucked and they weren't any better on Sunday. Still, you gotta pay to play and that was the toll exacted on the participants. Once you got over a major climb you were rewarded with a screaming downhill, sometimes on loose gravel roads. More than once I came into a turn and saw many skid marks that went off into the trees. More than once I was damn close to being one of those guys. Thankfully my brakes worked well and they kept me upright and on course for the entire race.

After the last "run-up" I knew we didn't have much left and most of it would be on the road. Pushing through some minor cramps I put my head down and turned the cranks as best I could. I caught up to two single speeders I had been playing leapfrog with throughout the day and was able to pass on a long road descent. I thought my gain would be short lived as both guys were very strong riders and much better at the road portions than myself. With a small gap on them I hooked up with a geared rider and we worked together on the final stretch. I kept looking back expecting to be overtaken at any moment, however, I didn't see the other riders for the rest of the race. As a matter of fact, after I crossed the line I kept an eye out and didn't see either rider cross the line at all. I'm still quite confused about that aspect of the race. Post race daze....maybe. Anyway, I ended the day in 9th place for SS class with a time of 4:54. A cold beer and warm burrito topped off a perfect, painful day of racing.

Camping with Kids

2008-10-07T15:32:00.000-04:00

A whole bunch of us decided to do a little Fall camping in Gambrill State Park this past weekend. 3 Wives, 11 kids, 3 dogs, several bikes, big wheels and fishing poles....this was family car camping at its finest. A few of us went by the campground (with our boys) Friday after work to secure the sites and pitch a couple tents. Beer accompanied us and no one really wanted to leave after a few stouts. Unfortunately Frank was the only one planning to spend the night, so, the rest of us were not prepared for the cool Autumn night. As the temperature dropped we reluctantly loaded the minivan and headed south to Germantown, leaving Frank and Grace as the sole representatives for the evening.

Sunday I awoke to a very excited 5 year old boy who asked "when are we leaving" every 32.5 seconds. Friday evenings anticipation gave way to Saturday mornings stress and I was about to crack while trying to pack a mountains worth of gear for a one night camping trip. Food, coolers, blankets, toys and a slew of other things needed to be pulled from their dusty corners and precisely packed in order to fit in the van. Preparing for a 24 hour race was easier than packing for our overnight trip. Somehow I managed to get all the gear, the kids and my wife in the van and we headed north towards the park, all the while I knew I had to unpack and setup everything once we got there. Hopefully the boy will have let go of my leg by then.

Setup wasn't so bad and I was happy to see Jason and Reilly show up for a little visit. They couldn't stay long, but, it was nice to see him out and hopefully he'll be re-joining the rides soon. Tony also came up from DC with his daughter Lexi, a nice surprise, as well as DaveG & Naomi, the DKEG & Mark clans, Phil with Charlie and Cheyenne and my brother and niece. We really packed those 4 pads.

Dinner Saturday night was an amazing potluck rarely seen while camping. Everyone brought and shared some great dishes and the beer selection was equally as impressive. After dinner the boys went off into the woods and did boy things and the girls went into a tent and did their own thing. The parents finally got a chance to sit back and enjoy the cool mountain air on a brisk Autumn night. David's site became the communal spot and his fire pit played host to the evenings activities. Oddly enough, our host retired at an unusually early hour. Apparently DKEG went in his tent to change his cloths and didn't emerge again until the next morning. Probably a good thing as we received several warnings from the camp host about noise, dogs and more noise. Such is life I guess.

The next day we awoke to a spectacular morning and a hearty breakfast. Bellies full, a large group headed up the mountain for a little nature hike. My two kids are not very familiar with the concept and I had to carry the girl on my shoulders for most of the hike. Jonny kept asking for a ride, but, with 35 pounds already on my back he was getting no love from daddy. Still, the boy pressed on and seemed to have a good time. At the Tea Room the kids played on the swings and explored the mountain top. After a little time Phil needed to head back down and I decided to join him. Back at camp we started the process of packing it all up again....what fun. Loaded up and ready to roll David and I bid everyone farewell as he and I decided to ride our Cross bikes back to Germantown.

With a beautiful Fall day in front of us we headed off the mountain for what was supposed to be a 32 mile ride. He and RiderX planned the course that would take us through Frederick and down some scenic country roads. Our slight detour to the Flying Dog brewery was met with disappointment as the brewery is closed on Sundays. Probably a good thing as the pint glasses would have had a tough time with some sections we added later in the ride. Once we moved further from Frederick the hills began to roll more and we decided to throw in a couple "roads" we've ridden in the past. Prior to Monococy Bottom Road we came across a couple old chainsaws and had to stop for a photo op. Our revised route took us through a stream crossing, a ford and all around Sugarloaf mountains gravel roads. South of the mountain we decided on a couple more detours to continue the adventure. We hit Black Hills park and jumped on every good single track trail the park has to offer. Each of us in a zone, we barely spoke a word as we navigated our skinny tires through the twisting trails. Shortly before the exit onto the double track I hit a root hard and experienced our only flat of the day. Not bad considering where we took our bikes.

Out of Black Hills we hit the Hoyles Mill Connector for one last bit of dirt before the final asphalt stretch. Two more stream crossings (one with a tree bridge) and some small rock gardens added to an already intoxicating ride. Out of the trails we cruised around the soccer-plex and back onto the road. 2 miles later David and I separated as we neared our homes. A little over 46 miles of some extremely varied terrain topped off an already incredible weekend. Can't wait to do it again........soon.

2008-09-26T16:05:00.000-04:00

Need a good laugh?

Bliss

2008-09-23T14:20:00.000-04:00

Just had to throw a shout out for the Blue Eyed Devil and his annual Bootlegger's Bliss. Saturday November 1st, save the date. This will be the third installment of the event and it's always a good time.....so I've heard. This will be my first year attending and I'm rolling on Pink's admission ticket, cuz I'm a slacker who would rather drink beer than brew it.

I'd like to brew and RiderX even invited me to learn. The Big Dog, however, had other ideas and we busted rocks that day.

Some day....hopefully.

Oh, and bring your cheap wheels if RickyD shows up.

Douthat 2008

2008-09-22T10:45:00.000-04:00

The MORE fall camping trip at Douthat was a blast, as always, and I feel sorry for the people who bailed. The weather people were calling for rain, 30% for most of the weekend. As soon as I turned west on 64 the clouds parted, moon popped out and we had beautiful weather for the whole weekend. Sure, it was a little hot and humid, but, the trails were in great shape and I got in some good riding.

Saturday I hooked up with the "fast" group led by Jonathan and we planned to head south out of the park in search of newly cut trails . The ride started with 15 people and like most rides in Douthat it began with a climb. The extended climb up Stony Run really spread out our group and by the time we got to the top there were mummers of a mutiny. At the Tuscarora Overlook more than half the group decides to do a shorter loop and headed North instead of South on Middle Mountain. Our reduced group of 7 press south at the summit and are greeted with tight single track that sees little traffic. The trail was narrow and many a rock were hidden by the encroaching brush and this added a welcome sense of adventure to these spectacular trails. Off Middle mountain and out of the park our map was of little use and we had to rely on vague directions and hand drawn marks on the original map. To be sure there was a little second guessing, but, I was with an adventurous group and we were having a great time. The GPS came in handy once as a way to confirm the groups location and direction. A little piece of mind can go a long way in unfamiliar territory. As the gravel road turned to single track we encountered the new trails we went in search of. Some of this trail was built by the Boy Scout and some by the local clubs. The Boy Scouts have a little to learn about bench-cutting, but, their labor is always appreciated and the new trail is a welcome addition. No idea what the name of this new trail is, but, it brought us all the way back to the middle of Stony Run, just below the switch-backs. From here we could have bombed down the trail, jumped back on the road for an easy spin back to camp. Instead, we decide to hit Locus Gap and keep dirt under the tires. We then pick up Huff's and traverse all the way to Backway Hollow and a screamer down to the campground. I cooled down an Imperial Porter and a nice dip in the lake. Great ride!

That night MORE had its potluck dinner and first every Kung Fu movies. I borrowed my brothers big "event tent" and it served as a central meeting spot for dinner and later became the movie theater for the night. We screened a Power Point presentation of Denis' trip to France, I showed some slides of various bike trips/races of my own. JoeP brought along the movie he made for the winter party, which is VERY well done and always a hit. Joe also brought The Kung Fu Hustle and it was a pretty entertaining movie. We topped of the evening with Off Road To Athens, a spectacular movie about several mountain bikers quest to make the Olympic team. Somewhere in all that I participated in the naked crit, but, we won't go into any details on that one. I will say that John went down hard, Scud has pictures and I'm lucky not to be in hand-cuffs.

I next morning my head throbbed from all the porter I consumed and the pancakes did wonders to make me feel human again. We had a lot of work to do breaking things down, so, I opted for a shorter ride with a slightly less rambunctious group. I also decided to give the new La Cruz another spin on the dirt. It was an interesting ride to be on skinny tires and drop bars, that's one of the things I like about the bike. She climbed well, however, I had some issues with the brakes and I had a couple sketchy moments going into a few of the switch-backs. I had one flat that took too long to fix, but other than that, it was a great ride.

Back at the campsite I started breaking things down. Damn.....I had a lot of stuff. I really have to stop packing so heavy. Of course, the largest item was the event tent and I was happy to have assistance taking that down. Car loaded up I was headed home. Another beautiful weekend of camping and riding. I can't wait for next year.

Psycho Cross Shakedown

2008-09-08T11:20:00.000-04:00

Rich aka Chet aka Phil and I recently built up a couple cross bikes and needed a little shakedown ride to make sure things were tight. DKEG comes up with a little route inspired by RiderX's famed 1903 rides with one small exception......rocks.....lots of freaking rocks!

Phil exceeded what I'm sure Ellsworth had in mind when they created his pure CX race thoroughbred. A sexy mix of aluminum and carbon with canti brakes and no braze-ons for water bottles, his bike was made for the grassy knolls of traditional cross racing. I opted for a more utilitarian (read cheaper) steel steed and Salsa's La Cruz disk specific cross frame and fork. The La Cruz is a bit more of a "jack of all trades" bike and really exceeded my expectations during our ride. Both our bikes were spec'd with Shimano's Ultegra SL group that blew my mind with uber crisp shifting throughout the entire ride, even when the trails took a turn for the rocky. I was also happy to have the non-UCI-compliant disk brakes providing the stopping power. I always knew I could stop on a dime, if needed, and I needed that power a few times during the ride.

On the initial descent into the valley Phil got a little loose on a sweeping right turn and spun the bike around 180 degrees......at 35 mph! Not wanting to have to explain things to his wife I encourage him to go "a little easier", we still have 30+ miles left on the planned route and I don't want to spend my day in the emergency room. He smiles and takes off on the next steep section. Personally I think he just didn't like the squeal his canti's was producing, so, he didn't use them. At the reservoir we take a hard left and begin the first climb of the day. The previous days rain settled the dust on the gravel road and gave the mountain streams plenty of water to cascade down the mountain. This has to be on of the most spectacular sections of "road" in the Shed and the day was shaping up to be near perfect.

After a good bit of climbing we get to the first section of single track and the "trail of tears". Things were a little sketchy at first as I had to get accustomed to the skinny 32's on this wet and rocky climb. Finding the right balance the La Cruz carried me up the hill with a sure-footed confidence that put an instant smile on my face. Even the wet log piles that required negotiating could do little to dissuade the bike from achieving its goal and the top of the climb. We bomb down the ridge and picked up Salamander at the over-look. This section produced some of the biggest grins and almost uncontrollable giggles as the narrow small blocks tackled the technical rock sections with aplomb.

Off Salamander we road it for a little until the "gold-fish pond". Back on the dirt we take the trails to and around Sandflats, a short section of Blue and then the "golfball" connector trail over to DeLauter and Five Points. At this point we begin RiderX's traditional 1903 route and some incredible gravel/country roads through Frederick. The gravel of Rum Springs gave way to the asphalt of Highland School and our max speed of the day @ 54 mph. That was a screamer! Quick left on Wolfsville and then a right on Meetinghouse. We re-group and take in some calories that will be needed for the next series of climbs. Up Meetinghouse and then the steep and loose Wildcat. Right turn on Wolfsville for a little road section, left on Spruce and a quick left back to the gravel and Hayes. This was a nasty bit of "road" that was long, steep and rutted in several sections. Right turn on Stottlemeyer and an extended road climb. I can't remember the name to the next road, but, we stopped, refueled and took it over to Tower. At this point we were on our way back towards our starting point and felt we had spent enough time on the road. Our tires required some dirt and the Blue trail off DeLauter was happy to oblige. Phil got the first of our only two flats on the road and then the second one a little while later after a nasty rock garden on Blue. We all agree the descent down Blue sucks and decide to give the "tricky trail" a shot on our skinny tires. This is a section of trail that gives pause to many people when running full blown mountain bikes and we hit it with our cross bikes. It was kinda ridiculous and amusing at the same time. With the exception of one small ledge drop I clean the whole trail including the rock slab drop back onto Blue. It was here I was extremely happy to have the stopping power of the disk breaks. I set up quickly and hope to catch DKEG and Phil as they negotiate the slab. David looked good at first, but, didn't get enough weight over his rear wheel and did a flying superman OTB, hits the ground and then his bike lands on top of him, just to add insult to injury. He doesn't get seriously hurt and even threw his arms in the air like a gymnast upon a successful dismount. Phil looked good the whole way and rolled the slab like the seasoned pro he is. From there we climbed up Buck Flats trail and back to the car.

The La Cruz put a smile on my face from the moment I threw a leg over her and kept it there throughout the day. She didn't complain once as I asked her to take on trails the engineers never thought she would see. 32 miles, 4300 feet of climbing and lots of big honking rocks. Damn, I LOVE my new bike!!

Sadistic & Masochistic

2008-09-03T12:19:00.000-04:00

AKA the Shenandoah Mountain 100 (SM100). For many people this is the race they train for all season. All other activities on their bike are in preparation for this grueling 100 mile race through the Shenandoah Mountains in The Commonwealth of VA.

It was that way for me last year. I "trained" for the race, foregoing rides with my buddies in hopes to finish with a respectable time. Now training really is just going for a bike ride and that is always fun, but, I did miss out on some good times with my buds. All that work resulted in a very disappointing 12:47, severe leg cramps and a year of gloating from Frenchie. This year I planned to get some official training rides in, but, with the exception of one ride with Becky and Liz (who wouldn't pass up on that opportunity?) I didn't do any "training" rides this year. I've been racing and riding the rocks of Frederick and Michaux this year. Post ride beers with the gang and really having a great time. The weather has been exceptionally nice this year and you have to take advantage of that!

As always the race started at the crack of dawn, pre-dawn to be exact. The bullhorn and gong woke up the campers around 5:30am after a night of torrential downpours. My tent actually developed two leaks, one on my feet and one on my forehead. In the middle of the night, in the deluge, I crawl out into the downpour and re-stake the fly to eliminate the puddles forming and hope for the best. Huge droplets were bouncing of the fly that now resonated like a snar-drum, but, at least I was dry. So here it is 5:30 and I have a pot of joe and some water boiling in an attempt to get refreshed before a long day in the saddle.

Coffee in and kitted up I head for the start line and hope to position myself a little better this year. I'm lined up in the first 1/3rd of 500 racers. I know all the geared guys will blow by me on the road before the first climb, but, I don't want to fight my way through the entire field like last year. The gun goes off at there is an almost immediate log jam as the pack is funneled into a narrow slot on the road. Somehow I manage to find a flow through the pack and can at least move through and onto the open road. First climb and I start passing geared riders content with spinning up the hills. My legs are a little tight, but, I have 100 miles to get them good and loose.

With the first climb over and back out on the road the geared guys catch back up and pass on the flats and descents. I know I'll see them again soon. It is the order of things. Second climb is on single track and is slippery as snot, so, I walk. It won't be the last time today. A group of WVa single rockstars is in front of me and they tease the geared guys that ride buy. We are walking at about the same pace as they are riding and we make sure they are aware of this fact. All in good fun of course. At the summit we are rewarded with a screaming descent that puts an ear to ear grin on my face. This, to, was the order of the day. Long punishing climbs that rewarded the dedicated with extended, white knuckle screamers for what seemed like an eternity. Really good stuff that made all the suffering worthwhile.

Somewhere between CP1 and CP2 I develop a slow leak that required me to top it off before the descent into 2. At the aid station I help a volunteer swap out the tube, grab some water and a banana and hit the road for the climb up Hanky. On the climb I notice that a female SSer and I seem to be going along about the same pace and we start to encourage each other up a couple of the nastier sections. The climb sucked, as usual, but going down Dowell's Draft is a blast and that got you to CP3. Quick re-fuel at the station and back onto the road for some more crappy mileage. It was here I formally met Rebbecca and we talk story for a while to help pass the time of this long road stretch. As the hill pitched up I start to open a gap, but, continue to see her throughout the day. She would end up the women's SS winner.

Once the road turned to single track the climb took a turn for the nasty. Steep, rocky and narrow....oh, and off-camber. Tough riding and I had to walk extended sections. After we topped out though the descent to Braley's Pond made it all worth while. At some point while railing through these high speed turns I thought how much I loved my bike and the feeling of freedom she provides. Damn, that was fun! The festivities were soon over as I knew aid station 4 and the dreaded 17 mile climb was fast approaching.

Quick re-fuel at 4, pop a pack of e-caps and start spinning my legs off. There is no other way to describe the section between CP4 and CP5 other than to say it sucks.....BIGTIME. Mind numbing road, gravel and dirt sections that you just have to lower your head and get through. A fellow SSer had a small cylindrical MP3 player that he cranked up the volume and we all rocked on to on the climb. I don't know who you are, but, thanks. Those tunes really helped me out through that section. As much as the music helped, the one thing I couldn't get past was the feeling in my legs. They were toast! I had a couple small bouts with cramping that I just sucked up and rode through, but, my legs were just dead at this point. I knew I'd finish, that wasn't a concern. If I had to walk every damn hill until the end I would finish, but damn, this sorta sucks.

I finally arrive at CP5 and I'm not planning to stay long. The volunteers lube up my chain as I stuff anything I can grab into my mouth. I also switch out my goo flash for the spare that is caffeinated. I inhale a double dose and head out for the final push. This was by far the worse section of trail I saw the entire day. Large puddles that extended across the fire roads, wet soft single track that hampered forward movement and hills that mocked me at every turn. I remember this section from last year and those memories were not very fond. I grunt my way to the top and am met with a loose, rocky and wet descent back down the mountain, Little Bald Knob I believe is the name. What ever it is called it was sketchy and I took it easy down this section. I opened it up where I could, but, long sections were quite loose and very wet. I slid as much as I rode.

Off that hill I knew CP6 and the finish were not far off. The last climb up Hanky was going to suck to be sure, but, I knew it wasn't going to be as bad as what I just did. I blow past 6 and grind up the road to the fire road. That was a LONG grind, however, the caffeine must have kicked in or possibly endorphins because my legs are feeling better. They have a little spring in them now and I ride the entire climb. I top out for the final time today and prepare for a well deserved screamer down the mountain. There is one last section of fire road that is something of a climb, it's only a minor annoyance and it leads to the final bit through the upper campgrounds. I bomb through this section with a renewed energy and exit onto the open field and the final stretch to the finish. Cross the line with an official time of 10 hours 20 minutes 59 seconds. This puts me at #125 overall and 26th for the SS class. It also means I shaved 2:27 off of last years time. Talk about redemption.

Tapering

2008-08-25T09:09:00.000-04:00

I guess you could call it that. The last couple weeks have been pretty good to me. Took a week off of work two weeks ago and we had plans to head to the beach. The boy was running a high fever Friday, we delay our departure, so, I got a ride in Saturday morning. Then Darius and Michelle had a pool party in Frederick for their boy Thomas. Took the wee ones up, enjoyed an afternoon of juice bags and pizza, then topped it off with some hoppy goodness at the Mark residence. Sweeet! A tractor trailer falling off the bay bridge delayed our departure another day, so, the family spent the day at some local parks. Always fun.

An early morning departure got us over the bridge and to the beach Monday morning. Had to spend the day wrenching on my Mom's boat, seems my brother would rather beat the starter with a hammer than actually fix the damn thing. Did I mention the bilge pump was broken and the boat was half full of water?? No, well it was. Pumped out the water by hand and left the bilge for another day. Tuesday we loaded up the wee ones and hit the beach in the morning. The kids made a couple new friends and it was a great day in the sand. Packed up, headed back to Grandma's and get the boat ready for a little afternoon action. I take the offspring and meet Phil, my brother and 5 more kids at Macky's. Head over to St. Martins Neck creek for some great tubing and wakeboard action. I also learn that my boy is a budding photographer.....as long as he has a $7K digital SLR in his hands. Thanks Phil, you're a brave man putting that rig in the hands of a 5 year old......on a boat. Everyone has a great time and we head back around sunset, absolutely perfect day and the best time to be on the water.

We leave the beach on Wednesday and unfortunately we don't make it back for the Wednesday ride. I get a call from Frank about 9 and he tells me Darius and Tony cater the post ride festivities with beer and burritos. Damn....that would've been nice. I hit the Thursday at Schaeffer ride instead and we end the ride at DogFish for some good eats and drinks. Friday morning Phil and I hit the shed and get in a fantastic ride on the north side. End that ride with a couple Smutty Nose Imperial Porters before heading home. After dropping off Phil I decide to grab my power boat and try, one more time, to fix the ignition problem that has tormented me for the last two years. Apparently I crossed two wires when I installed the new coils last year and within minutes of figuring that out the engine was purring like a kitten. Freaking excellent!! I run the outboard in the test tank for a while to burn up all the crud that I'm sure built up in the cylinders. After a few minutes she is running smooth and burning clean. Now, it's time to re-register and throw a stereo in this sucker.

Sunday I did a long "training ride" with Liz and Becky through the trails and roads along the Catoctin Ridge. No one had a working computer so I'm not sure of mileage, but, we were pretty tired and it was a long ride, 40 miles maybe. My only training ride for the SM100 and it's happening in two weeks. Apparently I'm supposed to taper now, so, with that in mind the band decides we should do the southern shed trails and the big climb out of the valley for the Wednesday ride. Ah, what brutal leg burning fun. Jason had to bail early 'cause he just wasn't feeling well. Tim ran into a tree, broke his front brake lever and had to bail as well. The rest of our merry band blasted down into the valley and the climb back out towards Gambrill. We decide to find every big climb there was and roll along the extended yellow, up to the cell tower and back towards Hamburg and the cars. A great night of riding was topped off with pizza and beers at the Brew Pub.

I should probably break this post up into several individual posts, but, what the hell. If you're still reading I'm quite impressed.

This past weekend was more of the same goodness. I took the kids out on the newly tuned and registered boat. The old girl was running great and I installed a thumping stereo last week. The speedo tops out at 35 and I had her pegged there a couple times as the kids were grinning ear to ear. We launched just north of Reagan National on the Potomac, cruised down to Old Town and then back up to Georgetown. Parked the boat near the shore and in some shade where we enjoyed PB&J's and grapes. Daddy was having a nice Dales Pale ale which hit the spot on a beautiful summer day. Swim vests and "floaties" in place we all hop in the water where the kids impressed me with their swimming. Another great day on the water.

Sunday, Disco D takes a group of us on a tour of some incredible trails in Michaux. I don't know the names or location of half the stuff we rode, so, you might want to check out his report here. Needless to say it was 22 of the hardest/best miles I've done in a long time. That place is simply amazing. Secret, Heaven and Hell, Turtle, Connector, North Connector, North Secret Connector....dang, that was freaking awesome. We top off the day with some incredible roadside BBQ.

You gotta love tapering!

Battered, Not Broken

2008-07-29T10:36:00.000-04:00

The fifth annual Liberty Jamboree was this past Saturday and like last year it was a blast....... when I wasn't falling down ravines, over logs or on high speed descents. Jim Casey, Pedal Shop rider and W.U.S.S pioneer, puts on this little event every year as the summer time equivalent to RiderX's Punk Bike Enduro. It takes place mainly in the McKeldin section of Patapsco Valley State park, however, the staging area and post Jamboree festivities take place on the property of his in-laws. For the last five years they have been gracious enough to host this event and deserve a huge thanks for their hospitality.

Part of stage one was on a tear-dropped shaped trail that riders could chose to go either way. That meant being very aware of two-way traffic and passing could get sketchy. As I came up the other side of the drop there is a small tree hop required and somehow I botch it and go OTB. I gather myself quickly and continue to ride hard. I make up the spots I lost and continue to push the pace. As I go to pass another rider I brush by a long raspberry branch that is extending deep into the trail. It catches my face and puts a couple shallow cuts on my cheek and lip. I end the stage in third place, but, the price was a bruised knee and a bleeding face. This was a re-occurring theme throughout the day for me.

Jim decided to make the stages longer this year to keep the racers moving and end at a decent time. The long stages meant you could make a couple mistakes and still have time to recover from them. Stage two was actually my best stage and I played it smart. I was in third place going into a long climb and cargo Mike got stopped by a stick at the base of the climb. The leader was right in front of me and I let him burn himself up on the climb. The rest of the pack was far enough away that they didn't pose a threat and I had a feeling the stage was almost over. Before seeing the finish, I pass to his left and kick in the after-burners. Stage two was mine, as was the not-so-coveted lead pony jersey. Now, let me explain the "lead pony" jersey. This was an old jersey of Nicks from 8 years ago. Much like the TDF, the leader of each stage must wear the jersey, however, unlike Le Tour, the jersey must be worn next to the skin and has not been washed since the inception of the Jamboree. So, 5 years, countless bodies and summer time sweat makes for one nasty ass jersey.....and it was all mine.....for this one stage.

Stage three was the first real downhill stage and it was looking pretty good for me, until I flipped over my bike and down a ravine. We were all screaming down an over-grown piece of gravel road that lead into a hard right turn and some very technical single track. Ricky and I keep thinking we have over-shot the turn when we see Nate pointing to our right. Unfortunately he is right at the turn instead of a little before it and we over-shoot it and have to double back, losing a couple spots in the process. I think I was in third at this point now and at the very first log I hit the brakes a little too hard to avoid striking the rider in front of me. Well, that extra tap on the front brakes was all that was needed to send me OTB and down the hill to my left. Crap, I'm having a rough day here. Three stages and I have gone down twice already....and lost spots in the process. I lick my wounds and limp to the finish as everyone asks about my tumble. I shake my head, know the day is early and I'll make up for it on the next stage.

We get out to the road and do a long parade over to the McKeldin main gate. Enter the park and re-group near the bathroom. While some people refill their packs, Mike and Ricky have a go at some picnic table hopping. Well, actually they were trying to hop up onto the table and both only got as far as the bench seat. From here we move down to the trails and the start of stage 4. This stage starts off with another screaming descent and I am out at the front of the pack. The trails over on this side are dry and loose and this section is highlighted with numerous rolling grade dips that make for some fun high speed jumping. There are large loose rocks on top of the dry dirt and some of the turns are thrilling and scary at the same time. RiderX and I were wheel to wheel on one particular turn, he on the inside and I had the high line. As we go into the turn I feel my front tire start to cut loose, just about the same time I hit a 2" thick flat rock that sends my wheel skyward and me to the ground.....HARD! At the speeds we were traveling the crash was very much a blur. I do remember putting my hands down, then I went into a roll and at some point I think my bike was on top of me. Needless to say I got pretty fucked up. I ripped through the right palm on a pair of new gloves, my right shoulder took a good hit and my left hand wasn't feeling very good either. I jumped to my feet cursing like a sailor and then waited for the pain to hit, which it did quite promptly. My day was over. The stem got knocked a little sideways and I have a few new scratches on the frame, but, other than that my bike fared pretty well. I slowly got on the bike and made my way down the rest of that sweet section of trail, pissed that I could barely hold onto the grips.

Happy to be in one piece, relatively, I decide to give Jim a hand as a course marshal and photographer. This gave me the ability to ride, at a safe pace, and still enjoy the day. I got some great shots of the action during this break and you can check them out here. I don't know if it was the ibuprofen Joe gave me, the beer at road or some divine intervention, but, I was feeling pretty good and was able to compete again on the last three stages, the derby, team time trial and the race to the reservoir. I did okay in the derby and got pretty far until my main man Darius decided to take out my rear wheel with a nasty pseudo-tee-bone maneuver. I didn't know what hit me until he went riding off laughing like a mad man. He employed these tactics to the rest of the field until there was no one left. Big D takes the derby and the lead pony jersey.

A requisite beer break before the team time trial and we should have handled things differently. The two ladies on our team were getting a little tired by this point and we were allowed to "assist" teammates on the hill. Instead we just cruise up the hill and do not provide assistance until the final stretch. In retrospect we should have helped push them sooner. It wasn't until the final wall that I swung back to help out our only geared rider and she was very appreciative for the assistance. Two of the other guys do the same and help our other female teammate, however, I know our efforts came to late to do any good.

Final stage, the run to the reservoir. I'm feeling pretty good now, about 95% and decide to actually hit this final stage hard. Unfortunately I am at the back of the pack before the start and have a LOT of places to make up. We're given the go and I pass a lot of people in the first 100 yards. The trail starts to get loose and rocky and I throw caution to the wind and let'r rip. On the hill climb I catch several more people and have moved into 5th then 4th. On the flat before the final descent I get another person and am now in third. We are back at the lollipop and I could have sworn Jim said the trail to the water was more on the left side of the circle, I see Nick go right and I gamble on the left side. I really need to stop gambling. As I swing around the bottom of the trail I see several of the people I passed head into the final section. My little gamble cost me three spots and any hope for some final points. I roll down to the water in 6th place, one spot out of the points race. Still, not bad for a guy who was lucky to be racing after everything that happened throughout the day. Nick takes the stage and I but mug Nate for an Outlaw, which I got. I'll take it and my cold beer into the water for a nice refreshing dip.

Back at the staging area (house) kids are everywhere and the festivities are just getting started. Barb shows up with the wee ones as I'm getting changed. The rest of the day is filled with burgers, beer and chasing Jackie around. The points are only part of the over-all race and we still have a hand of Blackjack to play. Again, gambling is a big part of the Jamboree and many_a_previous winner has been decided by a hand of cards. Mike, our over-all points winner, couldn't beat the house and walked away empty handed. Nick pushed, bet smart and took away the win and the lead pony jersey. Jonathan, last years winner, race and gambled smart and took the second spot and DC Tony did the same for third. Me? I take the "Ball Breaker" award home for the second straight year. Damn, I am consistent.

Photos by me & Joe W.

2008-07-28T20:19:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy (and stressful) couple weeks, however, I have gotten in a couple fun rides. Two weeks ago a couple software packages didn't want to play nice and that meant increased heat from the firms partners. They couldn't bill clients which meant bills weren't going to get paid unless I figured something out....and fast. About the same time preparations for the MORE summer picnic were in full swing and a major part of the event was not finalized and required additional approval from the park.....which wasn't returning my calls.

By Tuesday I solved the software issue, with the help of a high priced gun slinger, and spent a long night getting our accountant data for billing. On Wednesday afternoon things were looking good and I was able to ride with the guys that night. Phil ripped a derailleur off on the return trip up Das Berg and had to walk it out, but, other than that it was a great night of riding and I was in need of the stress relief. Barb, taking pity on the fact that I was not going to make any of the rides scheduled during the picnic (hard to do as the chief organizer) gave me a pass for Saturday. This was perfect as Darius invited a bunch of people down from PA for a long ride in the shed. I show up at Sandflats at 9am only to find out the start time was moved to 10. No worries as I just kick back finish my coffee and wait for everyone else to show up. RiderX is first to roll up, on his bike, and informs me of the revised start time. DC Tony is next and I didn't know it at the time, but, he had a new frame, a box of parts and was planning to build it up his bike before our ride in the p-lot! Crazy, but, he got it together just about the time Phil rolled in, it was now 10:30. Our epic ride had to be scaled down a little, but, we still had a great time, I met some cool people and made it home BEFORE my pass expired. Major brownie points there.

The rest of the day was spent looking after the wee ones and getting ready for the MORE picnic the next day. RSVP's topped out at 130 on Saturday night which meant I didn't have enough food. I hit the store, load down my SUV with a crap load of stuff and got it mostly loaded in preparation for my early departure the next morning.

Sunday morning sees me driving to Patapsco around 7:30. I had to get a bunch of ice first and I consider myself lucky Barb and the kids are driving seperately. My truck is packed to the gills and I could barely squeeze a water bladder in by the end. At the park people are already there for the morning epic rides and I enlist the help of many to unpack my mule. I enlist a few more to help with setup and start to wonder when my two volunteers will show up to help, they never do. A few riding buddies are willing to skip their rides to help,but, I'm alright at this point and send them out to the singletrack. People are now showing up with food that needs to be kept cold and yet oddly enough they don't have coolers or ice.....WTF??? Now I'm stressed and the next person who asked if I needed help didn't know what hit him. Brad, from the 12 Hours for St. Jude, says he's not planning to ride and asks if I need anything. Ice, lots of freaking ice. I was told people were bringing ice, but, that one 8 pound bag hardly counts as ice for a picnic of this scale. Brad rolls out and returns with enough ice to sink the Titanic all over again. We ice down the perishables and he becomes my defacto right hand guy for the rest of the day. He totally gave up his day to help me out and he isn't even a member of the club. MORE owes this guy a huge thank you. We fire up the grills and get to cooking. The burgers are thick and frozen, so, they take a while to cook. The dogs on the other hand are flying off my little gas grill as fast as we can burn them. One woman actually commented about that and I had to refrain from smacking her with my spatula..........freaking bitch. Trish was another person who helped save my sanity that day. She is one of MORE's old guard and organization is her middle name. She ran a tight ship and I was damn glad to have her. At the end of the day we served up over 130 burgers, 170 hot dogs and a crapload of other things people brought for the potluck. The rides went great, the kids rodeo and ride was a hit and the pavilion we rented was perfect for the picnic. Somewhat shaded and right next to a tire park for the kids to play in. Barb brought extra stuff for the kids to play with as well. All in all I think it was a big success and I have my friends to thank for keeping the rides fast and fun. Next up, the Liberty Jamboree V.

Head's Up!!

2008-07-25T21:27:00.000-04:00

Like some fellow riders I'm hoping to spread the word about a stolen bike.

Stolen from Washington DC on July 20th a Blacksheep titanium single speed with S&S couplers and a truss fork. This bike should be very easy to recognize and I highly doubt there are many like it in the wild.

If you happen to see it listed on Ebay, Craigslist or riding down the street please post up here or email me at wrench177 at gmail dot com.

Time to move up??

2008-07-14T16:16:00.000-04:00

The MASS Fair Hill Classic is one kick ass race! DKEG wanted a little company for the 2 hour drive to the north-eastern most point of Maryland and this past Sunday I was happy to oblige. The Delaware Trail Spinners organization put on this little event and I may have to put it on the books for next year as well. A 22 mile course that is almost all single track and NEVER doubles back on itself. The expert/elite racers got 27 miles of the same, never repeating goodness.

Fair Hill Natural Resource Management Area was the stage for our epic little race. Upon arrival David commented on the number of racers at the event this year. "I guess this race has become popular" was one observation as we rolled into our parking spot at the back of what seemed like a sea of bike toting cars. My first comment was "shit....these guys look serious", as packs of lean sinewy racers rode past trying to warm their muscles before the start. Not 2 hours before DKEG and I were scarfing down a fine McDonalds breakfast and talking about the beer we brought for after the race. Somehow I don't think these guys did any of that......ever!

After parking we rolled down to the registration building, yes building....not a tent, and proceeded to fill out the requisite forms to race. I noticed they actually had two Single Speed classes, one Expert and one Sport, both open in terms of age. All the other classes were broken down into a multitude of categories, as usual, based on ones racing age. So, now I had for the first time in my SS racing life a choice to race Sport or Expert. Hmmmm?! I was now in a bit of a pickle. I've been having a good year so far and my times have been right up there with a number of the expert geared guys. At least the geared guys in the races I normally enter. They don't generally look like the speed demons I witnessed on arrival, they look a little a bit more like me. Maybe not as gray up top, but, about the same level of fitness and general lack of seriousness before a race. That is the pond I am use to swimming in. This new one was.......different. More sharks and far fewer guppies.

In a moment of cowardice I check the "Sport" box on my registration form and felt a little ashamed. Sandbagger is a term I would hate to be labeled, but, I've never raced expert SS before. Really, we were just all lumped in together as one big, hard freaking class that I usually got bitch slapped in. However, I am having a good year.

DKEG and I head up to the start to check things out. The Elite and Expert guys have hit the trails and now the waiting game begins. We roll up to and around the starting line, check out the first little bit of single track and head back to find some shade before our start. Around 11am we are told to start getting ready and find your way to the line. I line up with 25 or so single geared mates that look much more familiar than the mutants that scared me earlier. They are a jovial group and we talk about gearing, trails and the scorching temps we are expecting throughout the race. My nerves are much better and I go through the mental checklist before the start. 150 yards of dirt road before the single track gave the faster guys an opportunity to open up a little distance before the train hit the woods. Not wanting a repeat of the Bakers Dozen I decide I'm going to redline it until the woods and then hold it for as long as possible before settling into a sustained race pace. At the countdown I hit the gas and get the hole-shot. I quickly get to the head of the pack and continue to open a gap well before the single track. Feeling great I decide to push the pace and try to put some distance on the faster guys that are sure to catch up sooner or later. It wasn't until mile 3.5 that the first guy in my class caught me. A fast SOB by the name of Adam. He paced me for a little while until a geared rider went down in front of me and then he seized the moment and passed to my right. Back on my bike I was right on his tire and now it was my turn to pace him. We continued this for a few more miles and then he slowly started to pull away from me. About the same time the number three guy was making his move and started breathing down my neck. At one point I ask if he wanted to pass and he stated he was just going to hang back and pace off me. Crap, I lost the top spot and now number 3 is going to pace my ass.....this sucks. We hit a section of trail with some extended climbs and it is here I start to put a hurting on Allen (number 3). I slowly start to extend the gap between us and by the time we get through a couple climbs he is almost out of sight. I continue to get glimpses of Adam and know he is still within my grasp if I can hold my current pace.....we are half way through the race, mile 10.5. It was about this time that I catch up with two geared guys from Vet 1 or 2 and they a pacing one another and really burning up the trails. I jump on their little train and the three of us begin to really hammer through the course. So much so that once we popped out onto a gravel climb Adam was 25 yards in front of me. I bid my geared buddies farewell and was right back on the leaders wheel. He asked if I wanted to pass, but, our choo choo took a little out of me and I was happy to be back on his wheel. If this guy was going to win the race, he was going to earn it. Actually, I told him that, half joking, as we navigated the twisty trails. We were at the 15 mile mark, 7 more to go.

I'm 2/3rd's of the way through this race, my legs are feeling great and we are pushing a blistering pace, what the hell is going on?? I never feel this good. Was it the early bed time? The hearty breakfast? Damn, I'm liking this! Now, don't get me wrong, I don't have much left in me, but, I have enough for this race...at this pace. The rest of the SS pack is no where in sight and it could come down to the wire between Adam and me. Two miles left and he kicks it up a notch and opens up a small lead. He tries to pass a geared rider a couple times, gets shut down by trees and that has sapped some of his energy. In an open spot we both pass the rider and I am right back behind him and in good position. A quarter mile from the finish a cobblestone bridge stops him and he hops from his bike to pass a rider and climb the bridge. I don't know why, but, I do the same. He tells me, "if I were you, I'd be attacking right now". My reply was that I didn't have anything left to attack with and I was just trying to maintain. We get over the bridge and enter the last short section of single track before the finish. He continues to push the pace and I am only a couple bike lengths behind. Last descent into a hard left turn and we open up onto the final stretch. Adam crosses the line first and I follow.....6.88 seconds later. At the finish he comments on how that was one of the best races he's done in a long time, I had to agree. Incredible weather, fantastic course and great competition. I couldn't have asked for a better day......well, maybe a little better.