I like to ride my bicycle - for long distances. I have earned the California Triple Crown and finished the Furnace Creek 508. My goals include qualifying for RAAM and ...(read the blog to find out).
"The bicycle has a soul. If you are able to love it as it deserves, it will give you emotions you will never forget."
Mario Cipolini
"Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride."
John F. Kennedy
"The important decisions in my life I make while out riding my bike."
Former Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi
"Pain is temporary, quitting lasts forever.” Lance Armstrong
Friday, December 31, 2004
Yes, it rained and yes I did thrity miles in wet, cold weather. But, now I feel good.
Riding toward home at the end of the ride, a car beeped at me because I was too far into the lane of travel. But this was a good thing as monment later, the driver's door of a white van opened right in front of me and the only reason I missed it was because I was in the lane of travel.
Thursday, December 30, 2004
I have a three day weekend, so of course I want to ride all three days. But, it looks like it will be a wet weekend. The weekend forecast is ...
Friday: Showers likely early...then rain likely in the afternoon. Patchy fog in the morning. Highs around 45. Southeast wind 10 to 15 mph.
New Years Day: Rain likely. Highs 40 to 45. South wind 10 to 15 mph.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy with a chance of showers. Highs around 40.
We will see how much I ride...
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Another ride with the group from Scott's Cycling.
Tonight was special, warm and dry. We headed out to the east of Salem and rode in the flat lands. The weather was so nice no one wanted to turn around and head home. Life is good.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
I rode with the group from Scott's Cycling, which is always a fast and exciting ride. I got dropped at the run up to the Keizer Stadium hill. I was in serious oxygen debt!
Later, in when we were returning to Keizer, the rider in front of me hit a giant of a pot hole and nearly when down. I managed to swing to the left to advoid him, and the lights falling off of his bike. Luckly, the worst he suffered was a flat front tire.
Monday, December 20, 2004
A Bicycle Zen Proverb
A Zen teacher saw five of his students returning from the market, riding their bicycles. When they arrived at the monastery and had dismounted, the teacher asked the students, "Why are you riding your bicycles?"
The first student replied, "The bicycle is carrying the sack of potatoes. I am glad that I do not have to carry them on my back!" The teacher praised the first student, "You are a smart boy! When you grow old, you will not walk hunched over like I do."
The second student replied, "I love to watch the trees and fields pass by as I roll down the path!" The teacher commended the second student, "Your eyes are open, and you see the world."
The third student replied, "When I ride my bicycle, I am content to chant nam myoho renge kyo." The teacher gave praise to the third student, "Your mind will roll with the ease of a newly trued wheel."
The fourth student replied, "Riding my bicycle, I live in harmony with all sentient beings." The teacher was pleased, and said to the fourth student, "You are riding on the golden path of non-harming."
The fifth student replied, "I ride my bicycle to ride my bicycle." The teacher sat at the feet of the fifth student and said, "Ahh.... I am your student!"
Thursday, November 25, 2004
The last few weeks have been very dreay here in the Willamette Valley. We wake up to wet fog that hangs low to the ground. It is not rain, but small wet drops of dew cover your glasses, your bike and your clothes as you ride along. I find it very hard in this kind of mosity, misty weather. So, I have been studing for a certification exam instead. I'm taking a few weeks off of the bike.
So, when the sun came out on Thanksgiving morning, I wanted to ride. But, I am the cook of the household and I stated cooking Thanksgiving dinner instead. But I found myself looking out of the window at the blue sky and I heard my bicyle calling me as I rolled the dough for the cranberrry/rasberry we would enjoy for dessert.
Then Al D. called, "Let's go for a ride!". Looking at Joanne, I wanted to say "Sure", but I held back. After all, this is Thanksgiving and I had a feast to prepare. Putting Al on hold I explained what Al was proposing. Looking at me with a smile she said "We can always eat later." Woohoo, we get to ride!
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Today, the Salem Bicycle Club did litter pick up along the road it has adopted. Joanne filled in for doug Parrow so I got to put up the warning signs and ferry people up and down the road.
Once all the litter was picked up, it was time to ride. But, I brought a bike with Shimano road peddles but shoes with Shimano SPD cleats. Oh well, I went home and raked leaves instead.
Friday, November 12, 2004
Thursday was veteran's Day so I called up a veteran and we went for a bicycle ride.
Al D. flew for the Air Force in the Vietnam War. Now he rides bicycles, and very well.
We choose to ride up Larch Mountain. We left from Lewis and Clark State Park and began climbing. After 4000 feet in 23 miles, we reached the top. Along the way, Al asked "John, what's your heart rate? You seem to be breathing hard". It was 158 while his was 131. Of course, I weigh 30 more pounds then he does. Yes, I need to lose them.
You learn a lot about someone while you climb a mountain with them. I learned that Al was one of the pilots the flew the transport that carried home first released POWs after the end of the Vietnam War.
Sunday, November 07, 2004
73 miles in the cold, fog yesterday. We violated one of Keith Lippy's Laws; Never ride when the temperature is below your age. Last weekend I was riding in 74° weather in Death Valley, and yesterday I was riding in 40 degrees in Oregon. I have got to move!
No riding today as I have to go to work.
Saturday, November 06, 2004
I'm in a post season, planning for next season, taking a rest period.
But, I did go to Rivercity Bicycles yesterday for a Lactate Threshold test performed by Stephenie Sullivan of Vital Fitness. After a lot of spinning, sweating and a minor amount of bleeding the result is a lactate threshold of 153, or thereabouts.
What does this mean? Well Edmund R. Burke writes on the Carmichael Training Systems website that lactate threshold "...is defined as the point in which blood lactate begins to accumulate above moderate levels in one's blood during exercise of increasing intensity." Or, as Stephenie put it "Lactate Threshold is the point where your body can no longer cleanse lactate acid."
The threshold of 153 was not unexpected, although, was a bit higher than I thought it would be. This means that I should be able to ride with a heart rate of 153 for a very long time, as long as I consume calories that is.
Tuesday, November 02, 2004
I did not finish the Death Valley Double.
The morning was clear and cool. I left in the second wave of double riders and soon found myself in a nice paceline at 20 mpg. I choose not to stop at the first rest stop - Badwater, as it was just 17 miles down the road. I was feeling good and decided to continue to the Ashford Mills rest stop. I followed a silver Santana tandem all of the way there.
I took a short break, and then started the climb up to the pass. I thought I was riding well, but my legs began to cramp! The cramping would continue for another 100 miles until I decided to end the ride at 150 miles.
It was cool that day, and I apparently did not drink enough. The cramping was a result of an electrolite imbalance, and once there, you can't recover. I pulled into Furnace Creek twelve hours after I started and choose not to do the northern 50-mile loop.
So, my season is over and I finished 7 out of the 8 doubles I attempted.
Thursday, October 28, 2004
Another busy week. I worked out in the gym with Martin on Monday. After a weekend of cycling, leg pressing 500 pounds is always a joy. On Tuesday, I swam (20 laps) and then attended my wife's yoga class for the first time since spring. Yes, yoga is as hard and is as painful as I remembered. Yesterday was a rest day.
Well, the last double of the year is this weekend, the Fall Death Valley Double. Joanne will be joining me and riding the century. We leave this morning and the drive will take us two days. The weather may impact our drive. There has been snow storms is the sierra and many of the passes are already closed for the year. Our route is open, or open with chains, depending upon the web site we visit.
The ride is Saturday and the forecast is for temperatures in the low or mid 70s° F. This is Death Valley and temps in the mid 70s°! What happen to the 107° that I faced on the first year I attempted this double? It is almost not worth while to go. And some people still don't believe in climate change.
Sunday, October 24, 2004
A recovery ride today. I did 40 miles, mostly flat, but with a head wind going out. I rode with my wife and we enjoyed hot chocolate at the DQ in Stayton.
The ride back had some hills, but nothing really serious.
Next weekend is the Fall Death Valley Double, the last one of my long rides for this year. It will be number eight and I am looking forward to riding it and being done with double (for this year).
Saturday, October 23, 2004
Rode some hills today. I did 40 miles and 3000' of elevation gain. Included in this altitude fest was Gibson Rd and I did it 6 minutes faster than the last time (when I climbed it with 90 miles on my legs).
I was descending a steep hill, one that I could achieve 50 mph on. Looking up, I saw a cat slowly crossing the road. It did not hear me speeding down toward it so I yelled out a warning. It stopped in it's tracks and stared at me, not moving. I could only brake and slow down. Just as I approached, the cat ran off into the brush along side of the road. I had lost most of my momentum, but both the cat and I lived.
Friday, October 22, 2004
Another busy week. On Monday I took a day off and went to see Michael Moore.
Tuesday, I worked out at the gym with Martin.
Wednesday, I rode my bicycle in the dark for 25 miles.
Thursday was another night at the gym with Martin.
Riding in the dark has a certain allure. The only part of the road you can see is in the small circle of light in front of you. You can't see beside you, or behind you. But, you notice houses along the way that you usually ignore. As the windows are lighted, they draw your eye and you become a rolling voyeur.
Monday, October 18, 2004
Sunday, I woke up to the sound of a strong wind blowing the wind chimes about creating a loud but soothing sound. But then I heard the rain beating against the south side of the house. A strong south wind coupled with a heavy rain did not make me want to ride. So, I was glad that Keith Lippy called and suggested we go hiking in the rain.
Keith, Pat, Joanne and I did seven miles in the wet forest. It was wonderful!
However, I did a whopping 25 miles this weekend, but my lower legs are sore from hiking.
Saturday, October 16, 2004
A short ride today, just 25 miles as I had to go to work to upgrade a server. But, I did fit in one hill - Orchard Heights from the back side.
The forecast was for rain, so I rode my rain bike. But, perhaps I did ride the rain bike, it did not rain. In fact, it was rather nice.
Tomorrow is another long ride with elevation. I hoping to do 110 miles or so. I hope it does not rain.
Friday, October 15, 2004
Yesterday evening, I rode with the group from Scott's Cycling. We headed north along the Windsor Island Loop. This is a flat route with just one short, steep hill. Al D. likes to attack on the hill and hopefully be the first one on the top. As we approached the hill, I was in 8th place and Al was right behind me. At the foot of the hill, Al attached, but no one followed. Then, after a few yards, we gave chase. Al was second and I was fourth. I can wait till next Thursday.
Again, the weather was nice all week long and is now turning to rain. I plan a short ride tomorrow because I have to go into work in the afternoon. Like last week, my long ride will be on Sunday. I think I will head south out of Salem hoping that the weather will be better in that direction.
Wednesday, October 13, 2004
I have been busy this week.
On Monday, I went to the gym and walked on the treadmill for 45 minutes. It was sort of a rest day, so I did the treadmill instead of the stairclimber.
On Tuesday, I swam for 30 minutes doing 20 laps. Tiring.
Tonight I did 22 miles on the LeMond at 17 miles per hour. It is fun riding in the dark (with lights).
The weather has been very, very nice this week. Clear skies, warm during the day and not a drop of rain in sight. Too bad this will change for the weekend. Looks like the rain bike gets to come andplay again. Oh well.
Monday, October 11, 2004
I hate riding in fog. It is cold. It is wet. It is bleak.
But there I was, riding north out of Salem in the fog. My glasses were covered with water, my bike was getting wet and there was a head wind. Looking left and right, I could not detect any signs that the fog was lifting, so I knew I had perhaps two more hours to "enjoy" the fog.
I was riding with Mel Lucas and Joanne toward the Donald Cafe, 30 miles north of Salem. From there, I would "go long" while they returned to Salem. We were on Manning Road, when suddenly Mel's Litespeed Duraace 10 bicycle fell apart. The non-drive crank arm disconnected from the bottem bracket axel. I looked over and saw Mel holding his left leg up with the crank arm dangleing from his shoe. We stopped at a driveway and reassembled his bike.
After a small breakfast at the Donald Cafe, I continued north. My goal was to ride a century, 100 miles. So, I needed 40 more miles before I turned back toward Salem. I rode all of the way up to the boat ramp on the Willamette River near Boone Bridge. There, I turned around and rode through Butteville and then pass Champoeg State Park. I then passed the Heirloom Rose Garden and headed toward the Wheatland Ferry. So far, I had ridden 75 miles with 1200 feet of elelvation gain. But this was about to change.
I had made the decision earlier, to climb some hills in the last 25 miles of the ride. In addition, I had not taken any breaks since the Donald Cafe, 45 miles ago. I guess I had decided to punish my body.
After the ferry, I headed toward Spring Hill Rd. This road goes up and down along the east side of the West Salem Hills. My elevation gain started to climb as I headed south. But unless I took a detour, I would come in short of 100 miles. So, I climbed Gibson Road.
Gibson Rd climbs up to Eagles Crest which leads one to Orchard Heights. As the names of the roads indicate, this route takes you up to the crest of the West Salem Hills. The route is just 3.76 miles long. Beginning elevation is 330' and the crest is at 1100'. However, after a difficult climb up Gibson, there are some rollers on Eagles Crest before the climbing resumes on Orchard Heights.
After riding a hard 50 miles without breaks, Gibson Rd was a real challenge. My legs were cramping and without strength. Soon, even my granny gear did not seem low enough for the steep sections (10% - 12% pitches). I slowly suffered up the hill with sweat running in my eyes. It was just about all I could do, but I persevered and reached the top in 31 minutes, seven minutes slower than the last time I climbed Gibson.
I turned around and flew down Orchard Heights toward West Salem and home. After crossing the Willamette River, I limped home with a final mileage of 99 miles and over 33o0 feet of elevation gain. Yes, I nearly tripled my elevation gain in the last twenty-five miles of my ride.
I also succeeded in trashing my body. But it was fun.
Saturday, October 09, 2004
The weather forecast was correct, but we got caught in only one shower.
The sky was very unstable this morning. Rain clouds covered most of it, but to the east was some blue sky. Then the sun shown through lighting up the houses across the street in a magical light. I got the message - Today is a good day to ride.
But common sense told be to ride the rain bike, and it was the appropriate bike for today. The route headed south out of Salem up Liberty hill and into the headwind. Fun times were had by all. But seriously, I was able to ride hard and had a good work out. Sweat was even dripping into my eyes.
We stopped in Jefferson and ate lunch at the Mexican Bakery. Very good food.
The ride back brought the rain and we got a bit wet. But it was a short shower, not a real rain.
Total miles today was just over fifty and a relaxing 14.1 miles per hour average.
Tomorrow will be my long day and the weather should be better.
The weather forecast was correct, but we got caught in only one shower.
The sky was very unstable this morning. Rain clouds covered most of it, but to the east was some blue sky. Then the sun shown through lighting up the houses across the street in a magical light. I got the message - Today is a good day to ride.
But common sense told be to ride the rain bike, and it was the appropratie bike for today. The route headed south out of Salem up Liberty hill and into the headwind. Fun times were had by all. But seriously, I was able to ride hard and had a good work out. Sweat was even dripping into my eyes.
We stopped in Jefferson and ate lunch at the Mexican Bakery. Very good food.
The ride back brought the rain and we got a bit wet. But it was a short shower, not a real rain.
Total miles today was just over fifty and a relaxing 14.1 miles per hour average.
Tomorrow will be my long day and the weather should be better.
Thursday, October 07, 2004
That illness came back and got me down the last few days. Yesterday, I slept 14 hours yesterday and I feel better today. So, it being a clear afternoon, I joined the group from Scott's Cycling and did a very quick 26 miles. The first half of the ride was in daylight, but then darkness fell and the lights came on. It was quite a sight to see 25 bicyles with lights going down the road.
The weather looks bad for Saturday, but better on Sunday. So, that's the day I will do my long ride.
Short term...satellite shows a strong surface low near 52n/138w this
evening slowly shifting to the northeast...with ETA model and GFS similar
tracking the low northeast to the Queen Charlotte islands by 06z Sat
and weakening it. The models then move the low onto the British Columbia coast Sat.
The trailing rather strong cold front will probably produce gales
ahead of it tonight and early Friday...and some possible heavy rain due
to precipitable water values up around 1.5 inches. Satellite and
models still showing a double frontal structure south of 45n...but
ETA model and GFS similar merging the bands later tonight. Models have
fluctuated a little on their timing of the frontal movement and
associated precipitation...however, current model run looks similar
to last nights timing with heavier precipitation to the coast by 12z and
inland 18z-00z. Snow levels are fairly high with the front itself so
do not expect heavy snow with the front. Colder air behind the front
comes onshore Friday night and Sat and will likely drop snow levels in
the Cascades down to near 5000 feet. The orographics late Friday night
and Sat are fairly decent as the upper trough swings inland and some
potential exists for the first Snow Advisory of the year although
would likely be above the main passes.
Monday, October 04, 2004
Well, the looks like it is going to take a turn for the worst. From the National Weather Service:
Long term...little change planned at this time. The next front moves
into the area mainly Friday...as the medium range models struggle
with timing in the increasing amplitude flow. Recent model runs show
some cooler air dropping snow levels down to 5000 feet or so as the
main upper trough comes onshore Saturday. Another system brushes
through Sunday then northwest flow behind this system looks to be on
the showery side.
Sunday, October 03, 2004
Another fine day in paradise! Woke up to fog, but it quickly cleared to become a picture perfect autumn day.
Joanne and I rode our tandem on a hilly, 65 mile route southwest of Salem. We got to climb both Fishback and Liberty hills today. We felt strong and climbed well.
I am trying to maintain a high level of training miles as I am planning on riding the Fall Death Valley Double on October 30th. This will be my eighth and last double this year. I have successfully completed it twice but DNF on my first attempt in 2001 (heat and illness). So, in keeping with a good training plan, I should do a very long ride next weekend, perhaps as much as 140 miles. I hope the weather is good.
On another note, usually when bicycling is the subject of a newspaper columnist, the tone is anti-bike. However, I came across this column by Bob Miller in the Southeast Missourian. Not being a bicyclist, but wanting to write about the car/bike adversarial relationship, he decided to learn what it was like to ride in traffic. His piece is well written and honest.
Saturday, October 02, 2004
My friend, Martin, made the local paper today.
today's ride was to Hubbard and back. It was flat as flat can be. My max speed was just 26.5 mph. None the less, Gus, Lee and I rode hard and had a good time.
By the way, this ride put me over 6000 miles for the year!
Friday, October 01, 2004
An illness has gotten me down, but I'm feeling better now.
I finished the Knoxville Double in 17 hours and with an 14.5 mph average. This was the hardest double so far this year. The elevation gain was over 12,000 feet and nearly 2000 feet more than the next hardest double - Eastern Sierra.
My plan was to leave at 4:45 am, but at 4:44 I discovered that I had left my helmet at the motel. I had to drive back and get it so I did not leave until 5:15 am. None the less, I soon fell into a group of quick riders and rode with them to the base of the first major climb of the day.
descending into Napa Valley, the air became cold and nearly bone chilling. Both my fingers and toes were complaining as I peddled toward the first rest stop. There, the sun finally come over the ridge line and began to warm me. By the time I reached the second major climb of the day, I was warm again. This climb was fun, but not easy. Soon, I reached the top and began the "... Extremely fast, twisty, wicked descent!" The Quackcyclists do not lie.
Now comes the third and longest climb of the day, Knoxville Rd. When I last did this ride, this climb was very difficult and I really suffered. I was please to find that I did much better this year, but I did suffer. Just before the start of the climb, during a short descent, I hit a bee with my face, my lip in fact. While I do not believe that the bee stung me, some venom must have been released as the right side of my tongue went numb. This cause me some concern, but I could only keep peddling and after several miles, I regained feeling in my tongue. Just in time for the lunch stop in fact.
After a quick lunch, I did the fourth major climb of the day and then descended on Big Canyon Rd. The name of the road must be in reference to the size of the pot holes. Will someone please fix this road?
The rest of the ride went well as most of the climbing was now over. I rode mostly by myself but hooked up with Ron from LA once darkness fell. He was completing his 49th double, and he started riding doubles once he retired from motorcycle racing when he turned 60 years of age. Yes, he could out climb me.
I finished at 9:20 with five more miles than last year due to course changes.
If I ride this double next year, my goal will be to get beyond Highway 128, and all of the pickup/boat trailer traffic, before dark. Scary.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Just a short, quick ride on the tandem tonight. I'm feeling pretty good, even if I have worked 22 hours in the last two days.
Some time ago, I purchased a new set of glasses. Why, well I dropped my old glasses during STP and the RX frame broke allowing the lens to fall out. I did a five minute stop in a 7-11. I purchased super glue and fixed glued the frame back together.
My criteria for my new glasses was...
1) Lightweight
2) RX capability
3) interchangeable lens
I found what I needed in the Bolle Parole. In addition, I can remove the shaded lens and use the RX insert alone. This is nice for riding in the dark.
I have decided to use the Camelback on Knoxville. Mainly because I can carry more Gu and Cytomax.
On another matter, the local paper has endorsed my friend, and fellow Salem Bicycle Club member Hersh Sangster for Keizer City Council. Woohoo.
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
Tonight, I began packing for my next double, the Knoxville Double Century. I picked out my clothes, gathered my Helmet and shoes, and found my lights. Tomorrow, I will work on the bike after my evening ride.
Yesterday, I worked out in the gym with Martin. If you want my advise, the only way to keep a weight lifting regiment active is to have a work out partner, especially one who says that you are losing your gut. Thanks Martin.
By the way, I pulled out my cycling log from 2002 and reviewed my stats from the last time I did the Knoxville Double. My average was just 14 miles per hour. The first sentence in my writeup was "This was the hardest double I have ever done!". Thinking back, I would agree. But, I believe that I am in better shape than I was in 2002. I will know for sure by noon on Saturday.
Sunday, September 19, 2004
This has been a very wet September. It seems to have rained every day. So, I was not looking forward to riding today. I have gotten soft with riding in the warm weather of summer. Now that we are entering fall, I can no longer count on a dry ride.
So, I got the rain bike out (Cannondale CAAD 3 fitted with fenders) and we headed down to the red lot. There was mist in the air and puddles on the road. The sky was grey and it looked like rain.
Today's route took us to Sheridan, Joanne's hometown. It would be the first time I would be back in Sheridan since the death of Joanne's mom. Anyway, the grey skies stayed grey and even seem to lighten. Could it be? Could we have a day without rain? It was to be. The rain held off, but I am sure that it will come another day.
Al and I rode together. The wind was calm on the way out and slight from the south on the way back. We took the hilly way, Brush College Rd both coming and going. Just for fun, we added Doaks Ferry on the way back.
Stats:
15.9 mph average
63.08 total miles
I rode hard today, on a day that should have been an easy day for me. You see, I will riding the Knoxville Double on Saturday. Knoxville is not an easy double and I have not been on a specific training schedule. I guess I will have to reach down deep and suffer. Fun.
Saturday, September 18, 2004
OK, so it is hard to start blogging again after so a long absence, but I will try.
So, why was I gone so long? Well, I had trouble with my cable modem, and then I was busy, and then I was lazy.
But, none the less, I am back.
I just got back from a week long bicycle tour of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. We did 300 miles in one week enjoying the Canadian scenery and people. Both are great!
We started just north of the Tswwassan, at a hotel at the intersection of 17 and 99. From there, we rode north through Vancouver to West Van and then North Van to Horseshoe Bay. We used the Ferry to cross to Gibsons and spent the first night in Roberts Bay at the Up the Creek B & B. Martin and Marney took very good care of us.
The second day, we peddled north to Saltery Bay and stayed at the Brock Resort and B and B. This was another very nice place. We even were allowed to borrow their car so we could go to dinner! However, they are retiring from the B and B business at the end of this month.
Along the way, everyone we met said we really must go to Lund, at the end (beginning) of the highway. So we did! But, no one told us about the 14% hill we had to climb! In Lund, we stayed at the History Lund Hotel.
Now, we retraced our way back to Powell River and used the ferry to cross over to Comox. From there, we headed south on 19A, stopping for the night in Qualicum Bay in a log cabin at the Kwalikum Beaver Resort.
Next, we headed up and over the "hump" to Port Alberni. Here, we stayed two nights in a cheap, smoky motel. On our rest day, we took the M.V. Frances Barkley to Ucluelet and back. This was a good plan as the rain really came down in the afternoon. It was a good day to take a rest day.
Finally, we rode to Duke Point, by way of Namino, and headed back to Tswwassen and back to our car.
We had a very good time, and were sad to leave. We were able to see only a small portion of the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. There was much more to see, but we had to head back home.
Monday, August 09, 2004
Friday, June 25, 2004
My workstation lives!!!
I have installed a new harddrive and an OS (XtreamPain). In addition, I have installed the drivers for my sound card. I still need to install drivers for my video card and my scanner. Of course, there is a ton of software I need to install. Oh well.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Race Across America (RAAM) is currently happening. The following is from an e-mail update:
"Solo rider Russ Goodwin was hit by his following support vehicle last night. Although Goodwin was not injured in the collision, reportedly there was a heated exchange, following which, according to Goodwin, his crew left him there, forcing Goodwin’s retirement from the race. It is against race rules to ride at night without a following vehicle."
This is one tough race.
Monday, June 21, 2004
My website has been down for a week now. On Monday last, the DSL modem failed. First I called my ISP EasyStreet who comfirmed the problem was hardware and then sent me over to Quest. Quest agreed to shop a new DSL modem which I found in my back yard on Friday. But, as I was going out of town, I did not get a chance to install it untill Sunday. Then, I discovered that the new modem only had one ethernet port, so I had to buy additional hardware so that all of my computers were networked. Just got every thing back today.
Well, not everything. My workstation's hard drive has justed failed. Good thing I just purchased an IBM ThinkPad x40!
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
Sunday, June 06, 2004
Either the redneck really hates bicyclist or they really hated biology.
I like bicycling, but hopefully, it will not come to this.
I may have friends in high places.
Monday, May 24, 2004
Sunday, May 16, 2004
I finished the Davis Double!
It was a tough ride, Doubles always are, but I had some problems that I had to overcome on this ride.
My ride started well. The weather was cool and I was feeling strong. My average was good and the bicycle was performing well. I made the lunch stop in good time and I had only 80 miles left to ride. However, the next section was hard. It was the climb up Resurrection Hill. I took it easy by shifting into my small chain ring and started spinning up the hill. But by now the sun was out and the heat was getting to me. I stopped in the shade of a tree, must be the only shade on the climb, and rested. As such, I did the last mile easily.
At the rest stop, I found a chair in the shade and took advantage of it. I felt a bit weak, but getting better every minute. Then I tried to stand. My legs had no strength and I nearly fell down. I sat back down surprised.
My legs were not crimping, they were not even sore, but they also had no strength. I waited several minutes and tried again. I suffered the same result. I could not stand. Now I was worried. I had trained too hard not to finish this ride.
So, I ate some energy gel, and rested. I let several more minutes go by before attempting to stand, but again, I could not. I called over a volunteer who gave me some V8 and I rested longer.
After thirty minutes, I was able to stand. My calves were tight, but I could finish the ride. I ate as much as I could, the melon was especially good, and took off.
Thankfully, I could pedal. While the rest of the ride was mostly downhill or flat, I had strength in my legs and did not suffer on the remaining short climbs. I finished the riding well.
While I did have difficulties, I overcame them and finished. As such, I am quite satisfied with my performance.
My statistics:
Miles: 199.21
Average: 16.2
Maximun Speed: 44.1
Ride Time: 12:16:54
Start Time 5:15 am
Finish Time: 9:30 pm
Total Time 16:15
Thursday, May 13, 2004
I have been way to busy to ride lately.
On Monday, Maritn and I were surpose to work out together, but I did not make it. Tuesday was another day off as was Wednesday and tonight. Instead, I have been working on The Watermelon Rides.
However, tonight I cleaned my bicycle, mounted the bicycle rack on the Honda and packed my bags as I am off to the Davis Double Century tomorrow morning. I feel good, and the weather will be mild so I expect to finish. In fact, I looking forward to a good ride.
Wednesday, May 05, 2004
Tuesday, May 04, 2004
Monday, May 03, 2004
Sunday was another nice warm day in Paradise. I rode 50 miles with the Salem Bicycle Club. I took it easy for the most part, however, there was a few times that I did work hard.
Joanne and I were east bound on HWY 22 when we saw a bicyclist pull out from a driveway in front of us. I could tell he was quick by the way he picked up speed. Not being able to help myself, I took off after him. He had 100 feet on me but I slowly reeled him in. I pulled up beside him which startled him. I apologized and took the lead taking the pace up to 23 miles per hour. He got on my wheel and I pulled him into Salem. It was fun!
Saturday, May 01, 2004
The weather was great, the hills were tough, and I rode hard.
Joanne and I did the Ride Around Clark County (RACC) today on our singles as our tandem is being painted. Joanne decided to do the 65 mile loop so I decided to ride the 100 mile route. My intent was to ride as fast and as hard as I could. I was successful and came in with an average of 16.9. It was over 18 mph but the last 25 miles were very hard on me.
Clark County is just north of the Columbia River in Washington State. Here, there are no flat roads, just rollers and lots of them. With only one climb of note, I gained nearly 5000 feet of elevation gain.
Even so, I had a good ride and feel that I am well on my way of finishing the Davis Double Century in two weeks.
Friday, April 30, 2004
Well, I'm packed for the Ride Around Clark County. Weather is expected to be hot - highs near 80° F.
Here are some interesting photographs from last weeks Monster Cooke courtesy of Ron Yamada: 1, 2 and 3.
Thursday, April 29, 2004
Last night was a very good ride. The sky was clear, the air was cool and the traffic was light.
Tuesday, April 27, 2004
This weekend is the Vancouver Bicycle Club's Ride Around Clark County on Saturday. Then on Sunday, I hope to do another long ride, perhaps another century.
Meanwhile, I was surfing and I came upon a photograph of myself on the 2002 Knoxville Classic. I'm the one eating the soup in the lower left hand corner. Yum! I'm even mentioned in the ride report near the bottom.
Monday, April 26, 2004
Here are some comments about the Monster Cookie....
The volunteers were incredibly friendly and fun, the route was great, and of course the weather you folks managed to bring in was the coup de grace. I look forward to the Watermelon and Peach rides later this summer, and to a great season overall.
Thanks again for doing such a great job - keep it up!
You and your club are to be complimented on a superb ride today. The support was great, your volunteers were SO nice, the food was excellent …and as a vegetarian this is the FIRST time I’ve told any club the food was excellent (delicious, FRESH lunch sandwiches on “real” bread!). The roads were well marked, the support getting out of “Dodge” (Salem) was tops….
It would have been a great ride even if it’d poured rain on me. I had 62 miles of FUN!!
So thank you and your members – you’ll see me on your other rides this year, that’s for certain.
Kudos!
Thank you to every one who put so much work into the whole ride every thing was great food, marking, nice weather, sags, nice job with the police at all the intersections it was really nice very good job to all who swept the course it was really great a thank you to the people who hauled every thing around and set at the different crossings and a special thank you to John Maurice for getting it all put together again thank you
JHM and all of the SCV volunteers.
Thank you thank you 62 times thank you!.
What an excellent day - great course, wonderful support, excellent cookies, and John - your really came through on the weather! Thanks to Scott's and Santiam for their support as well.
A monster thanks to you all.
Sunday, April 25, 2004
Just when you think you have wireless access, it goes away.
I could not connect for the rest of the day. But that was Ok because I got very, very busy very, very fast.
We opened up registration at 7:30 am, 30 minutes early. For the next hour and one half, we processed over 630 day of the ride registrations. This meant that we have well over 1,100 bicycles on the road!
By all reports, everything went very well. The police presence in Keizer was very welcomed, as was the custom railroad crossing ramp that Tom built. But, the greatest hit of the day was the weather. After last year's rain, any sun at all would be an improvement. However, we had such a perfect day, everyone was very pleased.
Well, it is Monster Cookie Day. If I have forgotten anything, it is too late now.
I am sitting at the Capital Mall using the State's wireless network to blog. It is 6:30 am and we already have one rider asking for his packer. The ride starts at 8:00 am. We have not set up yet. In fact, I am the only one here.
The sky is clear and it is expected to be 80° F. But it is cool. The sun is just breaking over the Public Services Building and I will welcome it's warming rays.
I have not been blogging lately as I have been very busy coordinating the Monster Cookie Metric Century for the Salem Bicycle Club. So, let me catch up on the rides I have been doing.
Last Saturday, I rode 118 miles on my Cannondale rain bicycle. The weather was cloudy and I did have a shower or two. But most of the ride was dry. I did fight a strong south wind as I headed towards Brownsville. Riding into a head wind is always a test of character. None t he less, I had a good ride and felt strong enough to take the hilly way home instead of the flat route.
I took Sunday and worked on the Cookie. Monday, I worked out at the gym with Martin, while Tuesday was a rest day (mostly because it was raining). I rode on Wednesday and on Thursday, I worked out at the gym and did the Salem Bicycle Club Thursday night ride. Friday, was the rider packet stuffing night for the Cookie.
Yesterday, I did a short ride of 30 miles before spending the rest of the day working on the Cookie.
Friday, April 16, 2004
Thursday, April 15, 2004
Wednesday, April 14, 2004
Tuesday, April 13, 2004
Well, the weather has finally come to its senses. In other words, it rained.
I rode the Salem Bicycle Club's Tuesday Night ride. But I was the only one.
The weather was much cooler than the last few days. In fact, it was downright cold. The wind was blowing from the west and the sky was dark. But, none the less, I rode the Cannondale for 30 miles tonight.
I did some research tonight. Civil twilight begins at 5:23 am on May 15 in Davis California. But you can start at 5:15. So, it looks like I can start the ride without lights. However, it would be wise to carry my two CatEye Opticubes. These give me enough light to see, but just enough.
Monday, April 12, 2004
Sunday, April 11, 2004
A nice 55 mile training ride today.
Joanne and I rode with the Salem Bicycle Club south toward Corvallis. The sun was out and the temperature was warm, but not hot. Life really can't get much better than this.
Highlights of the ride.
1) Observering a field being fertilized with green/brown liquid with a strong odor.
2) Wandering through a cemetery and noting the number headstones with the name of 'Carter'.
3) Hearing dirty jokes being told by Jim Henry.
Saturday, April 10, 2004
I did a longer training ride today.
First, before the Salem Bicycle Club ride, I headed toward the west Salem hills. I rode Gibson in 23:28, just one second off of my best time this year.
Then the joined SBC on their ride to Jefferson and back. This gave me 88 miles for the day with over 3600 feet of elevation gain.
I did an easy ride today. I rode just 40 flat miles, but it was on our tandem! This was Scott and Angela's first ride on their new Seven tandem. It's a sweet one!
A nice, easy recovery ride after yesterday's torture ride.
I rode with my wife Joanne, and friends Lando, Jeannie and Mike. At one point in time, Lando accused me of waiting for him, to which I replied "Since you have gotten fast Lando, waiting for you is not as rewarding as it used to be".
As we were waiting for the ferry, two cyclists rode up. One was wearing a Ray's Boathouse jersey, a local racing team. He greeted Lando warmly when he recognized Lando. This just proves Lando will continue to surprise me.
A bicycle police officer wins in court.
I now have wireless networking at home! So, instead of being in the "Computer Room", I am sitting on the couch, blogging and watching British Comedy!
I road 113 miles today at 16.1 mph with 3651 feet of elevation gain. The last ten miles were very painful and I had dark thoughts about what I do for fun.
The weather today was very warm - 80 ° F. That meant that today was the first day that I could smell roadkill.
Saturday, April 03, 2004
Today was a very hard ride; 90 miles with nearly 5000 feet of elevation gain.
I intended to ride 110 miles, but I was not up to it. I left the hills and headed straight for home. None the less, it was a good day of training. My next double, Davis, has only 6000 feet of gain, so I nearly equaled that in less than half the mileage.
Another great weather day; Clear and warm.
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Planet Ultra has posted the Spring Death Valley silde show. Yes, there is a picture of me at the finish.
This week, the Salem Bicycle Club has started thier weeknight rides. All I can say is Wohoo! I rode Tuesday and Wednesday for an additional 60 miles this week. The only downside is now I have less time to workout in the Gym.
Monday, March 29, 2004
Friday, March 26, 2004
Sunday, March 21, 2004
Monday, March 15, 2004
According to Jeff Foxworthy...
You might be from the Pacific Northwest if:
1. You know the state flower (Mildew)
2. You feel guilty throwing aluminum cans or paper in the trash.
3. Use the statement "sun break" and know what it means.
4. You know more than 10 ways to order coffee.
5. You know more people who own boats than air conditioners.
6. You feel overdressed wearing a suit to a nice restaurant.
7. You stand on a deserted corner in the rain waiting for the "Walk" Signal.
8. You consider that if it has no snow or has not recently erupted, it is not a real mountain.
9. You can taste the difference between Starbucks, Seattle's Best, and Veneto's.
10. You know the difference between Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye salmon.
11. You know how to pronounce Sequim, Puyallup, Issaquah, Oregon, and Willamette.
12. You consider swimming an indoor sport.
13. You can tell the difference between Japanese, Chinese and Thai food.
14. In winter, you go to work in the dark and come home in the dark-while only working eight-hour days.
15. You never go camping without waterproof matches and a poncho.
16. You are not fazed by "Today's forecast: showers followed by rain," and "Tomorrow's forecast: rain followed by showers."
17. You cannot wait for a day with "showers and sun breaks."
18. You have no concept of humidity without precipitation.
19. You know that Boring is a town in Oregon and not just a state of mind.
20. You can point to at least two volcanoes, even if you cannot see through the cloud cover.
21. You notice "the mountain is out" when it is a pretty day and you can actually see it.
22. You put on your shorts when the temperature gets above 50, but still wear your hiking boots and parka.
23. You switch to your sandals when it gets about 60, but keep the socks on.
24. You have actually used your mountain bike on a mountain.
25. You think people who use umbrellas are either wimps or tourists (unless they are golfers, and then it's OK if it's really raining hard).
26. You knew immediately that the view out of Frasier's window was fake.
27. You buy new sunglasses every year, because you can't find the old ones after such a long time.
28. You measure distance in hours.
29. You often switch from "heat" to "a/c" in the same day.
30. You use a down comforter in the summer.
31. You carry jumper cables in your car and your wife knows how to use them.
32. You design your kid's Halloween costume to fit under a raincoat.
33. You know all the important seasons: Almost Winter, Winter, Still Raining (Spring), Road Construction (Summer), Deer & Elk season (Fall).
34. You actually understand these jokes and forward them!
Sunday, March 14, 2004
Got out on the bike for a ride today. The club ride was "Cordon Road Cleanup" where the club picks up trash along Cordon Road and then does a short ride. I left the house early and did twenty miles before the Club ride.
After riding in the warm weather of Death Valley, the mid-40s ° F of the Willamette Valley was a bit of a shock.
After the ride, I was very tired and had to take a short nap before I could continue the day.
Saturday, March 13, 2004
I knew my body would need to recover after the Spring Death Valley Double, but I think it went overboard.
The first couple of days I was just sore. My thighs were tight and complained whenever I used them, but the pain was acceptable. I could live with it. However, what happen once I got home really was terrible. First I got the stomach flu on Tuesday morning. What I ate on Tuesday night exited my stomach the way it came in on Wednesday morning. I called in sick on Wednesday, but felt good enough to suffer through work on Thursday. By Friday, I was feeling better, but that is when the migraine hit. I drove home from work and was confinded to the couch for the rest of the day.
Hopefully, this will not happen after each double.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Monday, March 08, 2004
I'm back from Death Valley, where I finished the 2004 Spring Death Valley Double!
Time: 15:07
Avg. Speed: 14.6 mpg
Here are the photos from the trip and ride. The ride report will be up soon.
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
The current weather in Death Valley is...
Maritn and I did a light workout Monday night. Nothing too hard, but just enough to work some muscles.
I have been getting packed for Death Valley. Martin and I leave early on Thursday morning. We will spend the first night at his daughter's house in Sacramento. On Friday, we will arrive in Death Valley. I feel excited and ready. I have put in a lot of miles this winter, a lot of them in the rain. As long as I pace myself, I know I can finnish this ride.
Sunday, February 29, 2004
I enjoyed a very nice ride out in the country north of Salem today. The sky was overcast, but we had no rain while we were on the road.
Saturday, February 28, 2004
The last weekend before the first Double of the year.
I was still feeling the effects of my cold, so I took it easy and rode with some very good friends of mine. Lando is as old as the hills but knows how to ride. Wayne always has a smile on his face, and Mel is the serious one.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
Sad Link.
I have been down with a illness for the last week and one half. I have not done any training at all, no weights, no spinning and no yoga. But I am feeling better each day now, and the forecast for Saturday is looking pretty good. So, I will be able to get one more log ride in before Death Valley. WooHoo.
Monday, February 16, 2004
Today was a very good day.
Called Martin after the ride. His machine answered the phone. "Hi Martin, I just got back from a 55 mile ride to Dallas and back. I feel great! I was very strong! Life is good."
I was very sore last night, and it interfeared with me getting to sleep. In the morning, my legs were still sore, but the sun was shinning and I took the LeMond out. Rode 55 miles with Dave and Shirley impressing the hell our of myself. It has been years since I could hang with these two.
I past 1000 miles for the year on this ride.
Death Valley looks like it's going to be fun!
Saturday, February 14, 2004
Today was a very hard day.
Called Martin after the ride. His machine answered the phone. "Hi Martin, I just got back from a 126 mile ride to Brownsville and back. I'm tired. My butt is sore, my legs are sore, my back is sore, and my arms are sore. Like is not good. Don't worry about calling back; I'm just complaining."
I left home at 7:00 am and returned at gopt back at 3:30 pm with just 30 minutes off of the bike. My average is better; close to 16 miles per hour, but this was the hardest ride of the year.
After 75 miles, I pulled into Brownsville on empty. I headed for the cafe and found a bunch of bikes infront of it. The Santiam Slow Spokes had take all of the good bicycle parking! I ate lunch with them before heading back to Salem. I nearly made it before the rain started too, but got wet with just a few miles to go.
Death Valley looks like it going to be very painful.
Friday, February 13, 2004
Training went well this week.
Monday - Weights & yoga
Tuesday - Rest day
Wednesday - Weights
Thursday - Spinning and yoga
Friday - Rest day.
Sunday, February 08, 2004
I was very sore this morning. But the weather forecast was the best so far this year, so I let the LeMond come out and play. I did 38 miles today.
I saw blue skies today! So nice to see after all of the rain.
We headed north to Unionvale before crossing the Wheatland Ferry and returning home. The pace was quick, very quick. I held on for most of the ride, but dropped off with a few miles to go. It also started to shower lightly. Not enough to get wet, but enough to hurry home.
Training update: I am doing well. I seem to be able to get in a long ride each weekend. However, they are very hard. I have three more weekends before the Death Valley Spring Double, so I have a reasonable amouth of time to build up my endurance. I hope that the weather cooperates.
Saturday, February 07, 2004
Saturday was the best of rides, and the worst of rides.
I left Salem at 9:00 am and headed for Sheridan. Winds in the Willamette Valley either blow from the south (Winter) or from the north (Summer), so I was surprised to find myself ride into a strong west wind. This kept my speed down and started to wear me down. After 30 miles, I was passing thro Sheridan. I tenured into the hills onto Rock Creek Rd. Water started to fall from the shy, but it was a light mist. It wasn't even getting me wet, but it foretold of things to come.
I climbed up and over the ridge and down into Buck Hollow. Next, I started my climb into the coast range. Bald Mountain Rd has some of the steepest sections I have ever seen. I shifted down a "got in touch with my inner chain ring". I climbed up over 1000', then over 2000'. I started seeing snow in the forest beside the road. At 2300' it started snowing. My computer said 36° F, so I was not worried that the snow would stick. At 2500', the snow stopped. At 2600' the snow now started to creep onto the roadway. At 2700', the snow covered the road except for two bare ruts which grew smaller and smaller as I climbed. At 2800', the ruts were gone.
The roadway was now covered with 8 inches of snow, except the ruts were covered with just 2 inches. I believed I was very close to the top, so I started pushing my bike. I walked about 100 yards when I heard something coming up behind me. I picked up my bike and moved off of the roadway. Two ATVs pulled up beside me and stopped. "Are you OK?" one asked.
"Yes, but I hope the snow ends soon."
"Do you want a ride?"
"No, I'll be OK."
With that, they took off.
I started walking again, and rounded the next corner. There, I saw that the road continued gaining altitude and the snow was just getting deeper. With a heavy sigh, I decided that I should turn around and head back down the way I came. I was not going to do a loop today.
In the end, I did 106 miles with 5500' of elevation gain.
On the way back, a dog ran out in front of me on Zena Rd. I don't know why, but the dogs are really starting to get to me. In talking with folks, Mace has been suggested. However, I have a better idea. Paint-ball gun. If your dog comes home with orange paint, I guess you can blame me.
Friday, February 06, 2004
My training is going OK.
I took Monday off (Martin was under the weather).
Tuesday, I went to Spinning® and then to yoga.
Wendesday, Martin and I worked out.
Thursday and Friday were rest days.
Tomorrow is a long ride. I plan to do over 100 miles with elevation. The route? Bald Mountain!
Lastly, here is the Link of the Day.
Monday, February 02, 2004
I have been depressed about the weather. I have not seen a clear blue sky for months, and it is really getting to me. Then, I ran into the
Link of the day which put things into perspective.
Sunday, February 01, 2004
Sunday should have been a long ride for me, but I was just worn out.
Yesterday, I did a very hilly 65 mile ride, then drove to Seattle. This morning, I drove back to Salem and collaspe on the couch. I did manage to do the Salem Bicycle Club afternoon 25 mile ride (On the LeMond!), but it was all I could manage.
I could not do a long ride, so I did a hilly ride instead.
I headed east out of town toward the foothills. Once there, I did the Fox-Drift Creek-Victor Point loop three times before heading home. I did 65 miles and 4900' of elevation gain.
I was cold. My toes got cold each time I travelled south on Victor Point Rd and into the wind. The sky was cloudy most of the ride, and a shower did find me as I headed home.
Why did I not have time to do a long ride? Because Joanne and I drove to Seattle to see Willie Wier. He gave a lecture on bicycling in India. After the show, he was nice enough to pose for a picture with us! If you ever get a chace to see Willie live, you will enjoy it!
Friday, January 30, 2004
I have been very tired this week.
On Monday, I worked out at the gym with Martin.
Tuesday, and Wednesday were rest days. I should have trained on Wednesday, but I was lazy.
Thursday was another workout day at the gym.
I am confirmed for the Spring Death Valley double. Instead of staying at Furnance Creek, I have decided to stay in Beatty, Nv. which is forty miles away, and $83 cheaper per night. Of course, I now have to drive the forty miles before and after the ride, but I can do that.
Sunday, January 25, 2004
I did my first Century of the year!!!
100.13 miles of fun. Well, the first 49 were into a strong headwind. My average was only 13.9 mph. Then I turned back to the north and with the tail wind I fly along at 24 miles per hour! My average back was close to 18 mph.
I had two flats today, one in the front and one in the rear. One flat on the way down and one flat on the way back.
The weather was mostly nice. I did ride through on short rain shower on the way back.
My route was to Brownsville and back. There, I found a nice cafe for lunch. Well, they were serving breakfast and I ate a large one.
Saturday, January 24, 2004
Today was the Salem Bicycle Club banquet, so I did not have enough time for a long ride. Instead, I did twenty-five miles in the rain. And did it come down hard. So hard that it hurt.
The banquet was great. Nice to see so many club members there.
Friday, January 23, 2004
Another Link of the Day...
Tuesday was a rest day for me.
Wednesday I went to Spinning®. My first Spinning® session for many months. It is still work.
Thursday was weights.
Today is a rest day.
Monday, January 19, 2004
I had the day off, so I went for a nice hilly training ride. 48 miles and 2800 feet of elevation gain later, I was happy.
I headed to the foothills of the Cascade Range. The weather was dry and I was working hard. I was southbound on Drift Creek Road apporaching a farm house on my left. I notice two dogs running along side of a wire fense that ended in a fir tree. I though I was safe. Al of a sudden, one of the dogs was in the road infront of me and he was running toward me. I held my line, as opposed to riding off of the road and the dog ran into my bike at the rear triangle. The bike jumped to the right several inches but I did not go down. The dog bounced off and then ran home. Bad dog!
Sunday, January 18, 2004
This was suppose to be a rest day. I was suppose to take it easy. I was suppose to ride flat roads. I did Gibson Rd. instead. I was a bad boy.
Gibson Rd. starts off with a 12% grade for 100 yards, and then continues up at an incline of 6-10%. The climb is roughly three miles long and gains 735 feet. This is my favorite hill to train on.
Finished up with close to 40 miles. The weather was misty with wet roads. My Cannondale got very grimy today. I even had to clean it.
Tomorrow is a holiday for me, so I will get some more miles in.
Training update: I feel I am still on track. Next week the long ride is suppose to be 91 miles, but I have a commitment at 2:00 pm so I may not get all of the miles in. The Eastern Sierra Double has a date change - May 22. This is just one week after the Davis Double. Should be fun.
Saturday, January 17, 2004
I met my goal of 85 miles today. And today was a good day to ride. There was no rain, the roads were dry and the temperature reached 47 ° F!
I left the house at 9:00 am and did 20 quick miles before the 10:00 am Salem Bicycle Club ride. The SBC ride headed south to Ankeny Wildlife Refuge. There, I did three loops just to increase my mileage before heading home on S. River Rd.
In doing the three loops, I rode southbound on Wintel Rd. I came upon a green field filled with sheep. The first time I went by, I started a sheep stampede. The second time, the sheep did not run, but I could tell they wanted to. The last time I rode by, the sheep were used to me and hardly cared anymore. From stampede to ho-hum in three passes!
Because the weather was so good, I rode my Cannondale. As such, my average speed was higher and I did not get into difficulty untill mile 65. So I took a quick stop, ate some Glu, drank some Cytomax and off I went. In the five hour, thrity minute ride, I was only off the saddle for 15 minutes.
Friday, January 16, 2004
Sunday, January 11, 2004
The Salem Bicycle Club starts its rides at 10:00 am this time of year. Most everyone arrives early so they can chit chat till 10:00. But some never seem to arrive on time. My dear friend Al Dependbrock is one. Al usually arrives at 9:59 and quickly unloads his bicycle from the bed of his pick up truck.
So Joanne and I were surprised to see Al at 9:50! But there was one small problem. Some members have forgotten their helmet, some have forgotten their shoes, but Al forgot his bicycle today. We said we would wait for him while he drove home to get it.
Today's ride was nice. The pace was easy to moderate and we all stayed together for the entire ride. Nice. We headed north into the flats north of Salem before returning to town where Kristin had chili waiting for us. After 45 miles, her chili was great!
The weather today was a bit colder, but there was no fog. In fact, as we approached town, the sun came out! Yes, that great big bright ball in the sky shined on us today. I can't remember when we saw it last.
Training update: I am on track. I have been riding the long rides as per my training schedule and working out at the gym or riding rollers on the during the week. However, the long rides seem hard. Perhaps it is the fact that I'm riding my 30 lb touring bicycle instead of my 18 lb fast bike. From now on, the rides start getting real long. This Saturday, I'm suppose to ride close to 85 miles. I hope the weather warms up and the rain does not fall. But if it does, I'll still be out there, on the touring bicycle.
Saturday, January 10, 2004
Today was dreary. I left the house this morning at 8:00 am for a long, 75 mile ride. While the temperature has warmed up, it was still in the low 40s. A persistent fog hung over the valley. At times, I could only see for an eighth of a mile, while other times the fog would lift off of the valley floor but would hang in the air. I never saw the sun today.
At 70 miles, my front tire suffered a catastrophic loss of air containment. It went "bang" and I was on the rim before the "bang" was over. I had just turned south on commercial St so I got up on the sidewalk and started to fix it. However, fixing the tire was not to be. I went through three tubes and still air would not be contained. My ride was over. Using my cell, I called for help and Al Dependbrock was kink enough to rescue me. Thanks Al!
Friday, January 09, 2004
This week has been very difficult for me. You see, I have been snowed in for the last five days. Work has been closed every day due to snow and ice. None the less, I have been able to do some training...
Monday: Weights and 30 minutes on the stair climber.
Tuesday: Very icy - did not leave the house at all.
Wednesday: Used our Subrau Outback to get to Yoga in the morning and Spinning in the evening.
Thursday: An hour on the rollers.
Friday: Yoga in the morning.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a long day - 75 miles. But there is still ice and snow on the roads, but it is now melting. Hopefully, I will be able to ride tomorrow.
Wednesday, January 07, 2004
Tuesday, January 06, 2004
Sunday, January 04, 2004
Joanne was the ride leader for both rides today. So, out came the tandem again.
The first ride was to Hopewell. Four of us started off and we keep the pace slow. We were having a nice enjoyable ride when the tandem stopped shifting. We discovered that ice was forming on the cables as they went underneath the front bottem bracket. A little cleaning and a little lube kept us going, but shift preformance was poor.
The second ride began at 1:30 in the afternoon and Joanne and I were hoping that no one would show. The temperture was dropping fast and we were cold. But, Martin and his son Jeff were foolish enough to venture out so we had to do the ride.
I have not been so cold in a very long time. My fingers were freezing!
But, any day on the bike is a good day. The ride went quickly and soon we were in our nice warm home.
Saturday, January 03, 2004
I did eighty miles today!
I had intended to ride before the Salem Bicycle Club scheduled ride at 10:00 am, but when the time came for me to get up, I rolled over and went back to sleep.
When 10:00 am came, it was cold and rain was threatens. That is probably why no one else showed up. Well, it was just a 36 mile ride so off we went only to find out that there was a strong south wind blowing in our faces. Yes, there was enough head wind to make the ride worthy.
Soon, the threat of rain came true. But we stopped in Almsville and ate a quick lunch while we warmed up. The ride back into Salem was quick as the wind was now helping us.
As we neared Salem, I decided that if I was serious about doing a double in March, I needed more miles. So leaving Joanne at the house, I jumped on my touring bicycle, I one I ride in the rain, and did another 45 miles. This time, I headed east out to Howell prairie, then north. Finally, I completed a loop by Touring west, and then south to home.
Friday, January 02, 2004
My work was closed on Friday due to the snow. Here in Salem, it was not that bad, but there was enough snow on the ground to prevent me from going out on a ride. So, I had another session on the rollers.
Session details...
- I did twenty miles with an average heart rate of 155 (very high for me).
- I learned how to drink water while spinning.
- The LeMond now has more miles on the rollers than on the road.
Thursday, January 01, 2004
The first day of the year!
The Salem Bicycle Club schedules a ride on this day every year. And I have ridden it every year that I have been in Salem. But today, no one rode.
A snow storm hit on Monday dumping about six inches on the valley floor. Most of it had melted off by Wednesday evening but the ride was till in question. Then, on the morning of the ride, it began to snow. After four more inches, there was no more questions. The ride was cancelled.
Take a look at the snow!.