bike junkie

Tour of Utah Host Cities Announcement: Updated

2012-02-01T14:08:00.012-07:00

Time Trial. Miller Motorsports Park. Tour of Utah 2011.

Tonight, at the Energy Solutions Arena, The host cities for the 2012 Tour of Utah will be announced. Depending on wi-fi access, I will try to do a live update to this post during the announcement. Will the Tour of Utah stay in the Wasatch front - as in past years, or will it venture south?

We'll soon find out!

The Tour of Utah will be Aug 7-12, 2012.

Update:

6:15 I'm early to the announcement, and there is wi-fi available! I won't reveal anything until time, but I'll say now that there are some changes, and they are good. More to come.

6:45 There are several changes this year to the Tour of Utah, Location is not one of them (yet!) All of the stages are still in the Wasatch Front.

This year, there is no prologue. The race starts with Stage 1 in Ogden - which has been a host city before, but this is the first year that Ogden will be the first stage.

Then, stage 2. This is the one that I am most excited about. Team Time Trial! Miller Motorsports Park will be the venue for the fifth consecutive year. This is the only TTT on the North American UCI
calendar!

Stage 3 is back to Ogden for the start, and the riders will race down to the University of Utah Research Park. Last year, the Ogden to SLC stage proved to be one of the more decisive stages (and one that I was sad to miss!).

Stage 4 is still under development, but it will start in Utah County, and finish in downtown Salt Lake City.

Stage 5. The Queen stage - Park City to Snowbird moves up a day from Sunday to Saturday for 2012. This stage is an immensely popular stage for the fans, who last year packed the roads almost the entire way up Little Cottonwood Canyon, with parties and unofficial handups to the riders (pizza and steak anyone?). I'm glad that this stage is still part of the race!

The final stage is back to Park City. It is listed as a road race, but rumor has it that it may be a blistering circuit race.

There's the stage layout, more updates to come. Stage details will be announced later in the spring.

7:20 Steve Miller - President of Larry H. Miller Group is announcing the stages. Joining him at the podium are local pro cyclists Jeff Louder with UnitedHealthCare, and Tyler Wren with Jamis Sutter Home to talk about what they feel about the stages.

It sounds like this is going to be a great race!

New logo. Nice!

Perfect Example of What's Wrong with Cycling in America

2012-01-31T15:20:00.001-07:00

Stop the Presses (or whatever you would say in today's world of digital media)!!!

LeBron James rode his bike from his mansion to the arena on Sunday, then (shock!) rode back home after the game! A 40 minute trip each way!

The simple fact that this is considered news is stupid. He rode a bike. Big deal. People all over the world (most of them in Amsterdam) do this on a daily basis, and the world doesn't come to a screaching halt to report it.

One thing that I did notice about the article, is they made a point to mention that he was wearing a "giant helmet". This is America, after all, where any story about a cyclist has to include wether or not they were wearing a helmet - and if they weren't, and were struck by a car, it is automatically their fault.

Let's all give a well-meaning golf clap to LeBron, and get back to our lives. Don't get me wrong, I think it is great that he rides a bike, but I don't think it qualifies as news.

Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, the Pics.

2012-01-30T10:37:00.002-07:00

While I get some of the actual product reviews ready (waiting for the products to be reviewed to be sent, and putting the ones that I have already recieved through their paces), I thought I would bridge the gap with some pics I took at the show.

Enjoy.

New Belgium Brewery cruiser bike that was being given away. (didn't win).

"Hardly Davidson" shirt from Laid Back. Awesome!

Recycled bicycle jewelery from Velo Bling Designs. Like the twisted chain link necklace, and the earrings with QR springs and spoke nipples.

Desk clock from recycled bike parts, also from Velo Bling Designs.

Using your bike as a clothesline to dry your underwear. At the ExOfficio booth.

Tarma designs. They now offer charms for a charm bracelet.

Gate separating the employee area at the Keen Footwear booth.

Panda riding a trike graphic on a snowboard. Not sure why, but still cool.

Not bike-related, but funny as hell. Advertising above the urinals in the men's bathroom.

Bike/Tri shirts, and a cool mural from Life is Good.

Extreme yoga demonstration by the YogaSlackers before they gave away a $5000 Ellsworth mountain bike (didn't win).

The weather was mild, especially for January. There were several bikes locked up outside the Salt Palace Conference Center, including this Big Dummy.

Cool sticker I picked up at the Patagonia booth. Wish I would have grabbed more, as I've had several friends ask me where I got it.

People dressed up as the Na'vi from Avatar (i.e. Dances with Smurfs). Why? No idea.

Break Up With Your Bag

2012-01-23T10:51:00.001-07:00

My Timbuk2 collection increased by one this past week.

Yes, I now have 3 Timbuk2 bags, an XL messenger, a Commute 1.0, and now an XS D-Lux messenger. No, I do not have a problem, and I do not need to seek help for my obsession.

The way I came to have this new bag is what makes this story post-worthy.

One of my regular stops at the Outdoor Retailer show is the Timbuk2 booth. As you can possibly tell, I'm a big fan of their products.

This time, I noticed that they were doing a promotion called "Break Up With Your Bag". How it worked was they would collect your old bag (any bag or backpack), and for a $40 donation, you would walk away with a new Timbuk2 bag. There were four different styles that you could choose from.

I asked what they were going to do with the collected bags, and was told that the bags and money were being collected for At the Crossroads, a non-profit organization in San Francisco that helps homeless youth and young adults rebuild their lives.

This is the first year that they have done this promotion, and I was told that it was a great success, they ended up raising quite a bit for At the Crossroads. (Exact figures are not available yet, I will update the post when they are.)

I encourage you to go check out At the Crossroads, and see the work that they are doing for this group that has fallen through the cracks - too old to recive help from youth agencies, don't identify as "homeless" and unlikely to approach or seek help from agencies that assist the homeless.

Outdoor Retailer: Green Label Organic

2012-01-19T21:20:00.002-07:00

I love t-shirts.

I love bikes.

So, how do you think I feel about t-shirts with bike designs on them?

Today was day 1 at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market Show. I walked (what felt like) many, many miles and talked to many, many companies.

My legs are tired.

One of the companies I stopped to talk to today had not one or two bicycle-themed shirts, they had a whole line for both men and women.

Green Label Organic shirts are:

100% Certified Organic super soft Ring Spun cotton
Gently garment washed with eco conscious low impact dyes
Artfully printed without the use of PVCs or other harsh chemistry
Produced without scratchy neck tags
Pre-shrunk
Made in the USA, as locally as possible * Sweatshop Free * Oeko-Tex 100 Certified

And, they have some seriously great designs!

click to enlarge the images to get a better look.

The shirts are available online, or at REI.

Let's Learn Our ABC's

2012-01-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

found on Topeak's FB page. Would love to see this as a font!

Getting Ready for Outdoor Retailer

2012-01-17T07:45:00.001-07:00

A stack of business cards, printed and ready to go.

Printing a Bike

2012-01-16T06:21:00.000-07:00

I saw this link last week, and thought it was pretty amazing. Obviously, it is still a prototype, but it is still impressive.

Yes, the video is fairly long, but you can make it all the way through. I believe in you!

An Email I Recieved Yesterday

2012-01-11T08:56:00.000-07:00

Outdoor Retailer Winter Market is next week.

As I have been going for the past 3 years, my name has made its way onto quite a few PR email lists, and I have been getting a steady stream of requests to meet with their represented companies over the past few weeks. The majority of the invitations were for companies who carried cycling or running products, but every so often, there would be an odd one.

This one really stuck out.

First of all, it’s for a food product. I have reviewed food products, and do occasionally talk about food, but this was for jerky. I don’t scream it from the rooftops, but I have mentioned at least a few times on this blog that I am vegan. Call it a hunch, but I don’t think that I would be terribly interested in reviewing jerky.

Next, I noticed that it is for the 2012 Fancy Food Show in San Francisco! Not sure why I am getting invites to a food show, but whatever.

Then, I read the email, and started laughing. The email was practically dripping with pretentiousness. They use the word “artisanal” not once, but four(4) times in describing what amounts to little bits of dried-out meat. Phrases like “elevated conscience”, “imbues its products with the reverence for quality” and "jerky renaissance". Seriously? It reminded me of the Best Made Company that Bike Snob makes fun of on his blog.

Since I am the sharing type, I’ve included the email below. I’ve removed mention of the company name, because even though I think it is hilarious, I don’t want to be outright cruel to them.

Hello Kendall,

I am pleased to introduce you to (COMPANY NAME) Jerky, a new artisanal jerky company based in California’s wine country. (COMPANY NAME) Jerky is not the familiar gas station special - this all-natural, artisanal jerky has an elevated conscience. From ingredients to process to packaging, (COMPANY NAME) imbues its products with the reverence for quality. (COMPANY NAME) Jerky will be an exhibitor at the 2012 Fancy Food Show taking place in San Francisco from January 15-17. I would like to arrange a time for you to meet with the founder (Name) during this three-day event. Please let me know if you may be available to swing by their booth for a quick meet and greet and to learn more about the product first-hand. I have included additional information below and attached and hope you may be interested in learning more!

About (COMPANY NAME) Jerky:

A cut above the old, leathery, chemically processed products, (COMPANY NAME) represents a jerky renaissance, providing an all-natural, artisanal snack that is both healthy and flavorful, made using only high-quality ingredients. (COMPANY NAME) seized the opportunity to disrupt a sleepy food category with an elevated product that is all beef and no bull and has premium flavor profiles with healthier attributes than the norm.

With only 1.5 grams of fat per serving, and more than 50% less sodium and cholesterol than other brands, it’s a guilt-free way to feed your need for meat. (COMPANY NAME) is perfect for healthy snacking on-the-go, made with lean cuts of tender knuckle-cut beef, pork tenderloin, and turkey breast, specially seasoned with all-natural, gourmet ingredients. Due to its recipes, meat selection and proprietary cooking process, (COMPANY NAME)’s products are materially lower in salt (50-70%), cholesterol (50-70%) and calories (15-70%) than its major competitors and are 97% fat free. Devoid of any nitrates, hormones and artificial flavors, all-natural (COMPANY NAME) jerky has an elevated conscience.

(COMPANY NAME) is a small-batch producer of artisanal jerky, treating each variety of domestic meat carefully by hand. For the beef (knuckle-cut) and turkey (breast) products, the meat is double marinated and baked to lock in moisture. (COMPANY NAME)’s well-seasoned meats are braised first, utilizing the “low & slow” method to result in its signature moist and tender texture. The pork (tenderloin) is barbequed on an open flame, brined and twice marinated. (COMPANY NAME) doesn’t dry or dehydrate their meats, but rather bakes them, producing a tender, flavorful result that is moist, wholesome and seriously satisfying.

You may have seen quite a bit of activity in this new high-end jerky trend recently, such as this recent USA Today article: (link removed)

Please contact me with your availability, along with any questions or requests you may have.

Thank you!

I should have many, many posts and product reviews coming after the show. Stay tuned!I did receive a second email invitation to meet with them at the Outdoor Retailer show a couple of hours later – which I politely declined.

2012

2012-01-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to wish you all a Happy New Year!

I hope 2012 is a good year for you all, and I hope that there are many bike rides for you in the coming 12 months.

I am grateful for you all, new and continuing friends, and I hope 2012 is a prosperous year for you!

Video of the Day

2011-12-30T07:57:00.001-07:00

Yes, the video is in German. You have to watch it until the end to see what they are making. All I have to say is that it is very clever, and let's just hope that you have some good batteries in it.

This video was brought to my attention by David from The Sufferfest.

The World

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

from Cycling Inquisition. Simply awesome.

Photo of the Day

2011-12-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Nice rack!

Christmas Coloring Contest

2011-12-14T09:57:00.001-07:00

There was enough interest that I decided to go ahead with the Christmas Coloring Contest.

Here are the rules:

There is no age restriction, the contest is open to everyone.
Color the picture any way you want, crayons, digital media (Paint) etc...
Upload the picture to the Santa Coloring Contest Flickr page.
Entries will be accepted until Dec 24th.
Make sure that I can contact you via email, twitter, etc... in case you win.
Contest is open to US residents only (sorry, shipping costs...)
Have fun!

Let's have some fun with this!

Updated:

Here is the prizes that will be up for grabs:

A Dry Case waterproof case for your phone, camera or audio device.
A Buff Seamless Headband.
Planet Bike 8.0 Protege bike computer.
Yankz! surelace system (the best shoelaces for triathlons, in my opinion)

First place will get first pic, etc...

Anyone up for a Christmas Coloring Contest?

2011-12-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

While looking for a nice Christmas-themed picture to post on the blog, I came across this coloring page.

The thought occurred to me, what if I was to do a coloring contest? Would anyone be interested? I have picked up a few items from places like Outdoor Retailer - nothing super spectacular, mind you - that I haven't used, and would be willing to part with.

Leave a comment saying if you would be interested in a coloring contest. If there is sufficient interest (more than 5), I'll set up a flickr account for the contest, and come up with some rules.

T-Shirt of the Day

2011-12-08T06:48:00.004-07:00

Today's TSotD is courtesy of a twitter friend, Zach J.

~~Zach found this truly awesome shirt~~ here. Correction, Zach is the creator of this awesome shirt.

Eddy Merckx, the only cyclist to win the yellow, green, and polka-dot jerseys in the same tour, the 1969 Tour de France.

Proof that he is truly The Cannibal!

Photo of the Day

2011-12-07T06:28:00.001-07:00

Bicycle billboard

Even though I think it is too cold to ride outdoors, there are still bikes out on the streets (and sidewalks, in this case) of SLC.

New Year's Revolution Run

2011-12-06T11:23:00.001-07:00

What are your plans for New Year's Eve? Are you in Utah? Do they include running?

Maybe you should consider spending New Year's Eve in Salt Lake City, and maybe they should...

Yes, normally this blog is dedicated to cycling, but since I have some strange obsession with triathlons, and since 1/3 of a triathlon involves running, the subject occasionally surfaces.

So, did you make a resolution at the beginning of 2011 to run, and haven't started yet? Want to get a head start on 2012? Want to put yourself into a caloric deficit in preparation for the festivities later on? I know of the perfect solution!

The New Year's Revolution Run gives you the chance to run in the climate-controlled Olympic oval for four hours on New Year's Eve morning. Run or walk as much as you want. Interested in doing a 5k? Run 11.3 laps. Up for a marathon? It's only a measly 95.5 laps.

Are incentives your thing? For each lap completed, you get an entry into a drawing for some nice prizes (you can also "cheat", and get additional entries by bringing in non-perishable food items that will be donated to the Utah Food Bank).

Along with supporting the Utah Food Bank, a portion of each registration will go to the Autism Council of Utah.

Come out Saturday morning on 12/31 from 8:00 to 12:00 and run or walk as far as you want. It will be fun, you will be supporting a couple of good causes, and it's a perfect way to end 2011 with a bang!

Registration info can be found here (use the discount code "NYRTen" today to get $10 off your registration).

Bike Junkie's Annual Christmas Gift List

2011-11-30T10:00:00.003-07:00

Window display at my local bike shop, SLC Bicycle Co.

According to Rudolph the red-nosed fixie, it's that time of year, and once again, we delve in to Santa's big bag-o-lovin to pull out some bike-related gift ideas that are sure to please that cyclist in your life.

Lloyd Dobler Cyclocross T-shirt
Are you a fan of 80's movies? Do you remember the scene from Say Anything where Lloyd is "serenading" Diane by holding a boombox over his head? In the Crosshairs has adapted that iconic image to make a truly awesome cycling shirt.

$20

Action Wipes
You love your cyclist, but you don't love smelling them. When you don't have time to shower, or there's no shower available after a hard ride. you simply can't beat Action Wipes. Large, durable, washable, reusable cloth-like wipes that are infused with tea-tree oils, eucalyptus and other plant-derived ingredients. They are great smelling, and make short work of whatever you throw at them.

$1.25 for a single pack, or $25 for a pack of 25.

Timbuk2 Mission Cycling Wallet
Raise of hands, how many of you have sealed your phone in a ziplok baggie before heading out on a ride in hopes of protecting it from possible inclement weather and sweat? And, how many of you throw a credit card and some cash in that baggie for a mid-ride cafe stop? Wouldn't you love something more stylish and durable that would still allow you to use your smartphone?

Timbuk2 has listened to your pleas, and has introduced the Mission Cycling Wallet. A durable ballistic nylon phone case that protects your phone from the elements while allowing you to have full access to your smartphone's touchscreen, and providing separate credit card slots on the back.

$29

Ritte Bosberg
You can't have a gift guide without including at least one bike. This year, the Ritte Bosberg gets the honor. Why? Well, a couple of reasons. For one, I am a fan of the small guys. I like showing up to a race or a ride and seeing that one bike in a sea of Treks, Specializeds, etc... The other? It's a damn good looking bike. As they say on their site "...one amazing to ride and stunningly handsome machine. It will also make you roughly 240% more attractive and 312% more intimidating."

$2150 for frame/fork/seat topper/headset

Scallywags Coffee Brake Mug
Coffee and cycling go hand in hand. Several coffee shops sponsor cycling teams, many retired pros have their own line of coffees, and in some parts of the world, stopping for a mid-ride espresso is an institution. The Scallywags are a small group of fabricators from Minnesota who have created a perfect way to enjoy your favorite hot beverage* off the bike while still showing your dedication to all things two-wheeled.

*you probably could drink hot chocolate from it, if you must.

$20

Race Bib Holder
1st Marathon? 1st Ironman? 1st 5k? Do you want a great way to remember that special event? Get a Race Bib Holder. Display that bib with pride, instead of on the fridge with a couple of magnets.

$20 or $25, depending on style. **BONUS** enter the code "kendall" for 10% off your order

ProBar
On the bike nutrition is important, Bars are convenient to carry in your jersey pocket Why not get a bar that is all natural, vegan, and local (Park City, Utah). ProBars come in several varities and make a great stocking stuffer

$1.59 & up

Sufferfest
It's winter, there's (possibly) snow outside, and all of the feasting and treats between Thanksgiving and Christmas have not been kind to your fitness level, not to mention your waistline. It's time to suffer!

This gift is unique. You may hear horrible noises coming from the bowels of your basement while your cyclist is using it, and when they emerge, they will very likely look like they have lost a fight of some type while cursing someone named "David".

This means that they like your gift.

Indoor cycling is terribly boring. The Sufferfest videos remedy that by pairing some challenging interval training with footage from some of the great pro cycling races, such as the European classics and the grand tours. There is also a healthy dose of encouragement (read: merciless taunting) thrown in.

$11.99 a video, or get all 9 for some extended suffering for $84.99

I do not recommend setting up your BTC (bicycle torture chamber) in your living room. Unless you have a very understanding spouse - or if she is out of town.

Merry Christmas, and Happy Holidays!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T05:26:00.001-07:00

Rides a Bike

2011-11-22T12:39:00.000-07:00

Paul Newman in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

Bill freakin' Murray!

I stumbled across a Tumblr page earlier today, and have been wasting time at work (shh! don't tell!) going through the back pages.

Rides a Bike posts pictures of celebrities on bicycles. Some of the pictures are vintage, some recent. Some look like they are stills from movies, others appear to be behind the scenes, or promotional shots. All of them are awesome!

Go check them out!

OUCH!

2011-11-12T13:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my daughter came home with some waxing strips. Her and her best friend wanted to try waxing their legs, as neither of them had tried it before.

Of course I had to try it too.

I only used one strip - that's all they would give me. And, really that was enough. It hurt. I didn't yell, but boy, did it hurt! I did it on the front of my shin. I can only imagine what it would feel like on a more tender spot, like the back of my calf or thigh.

I think I'll stick with shaving.

T-Shirt of the Day

2011-11-11T13:21:00.000-07:00

This post started with a tweet by Tory Belleci from MythBusters, in which he was wearing a “hipster zombie” tee.

Inquiring on where he got that shirt lead me to Dark Cycle Clothing.

Dark Cycle Clothing is a husband and wife team out of Tampa Florida. Most of the designs were thought up during Adam’s 17 mile bike commute to work.

Out of their numerous designs, my favorites have to be the giraffe on the tall bike, and the octopus. Here’s a small sampling of their catalog…

As I was walking around downtown SLC at lunch today, I saw one of their shirts in the window of a boutique clothing shop. Awesomeness!

More information can be found at http://www.darkcycleclothing.com/ and twitter.com/darkcycling.

You can help make LEGO Downhill Racing a Reality

2011-11-08T13:49:00.003-07:00

“No duh” newsflash: I’m just a big kid. If I have the choice between going to the toy aisles with my boys, or doing the “grownup” shopping with the wife, I’ll choose the toy aisle.

Another “no duh” newsflash: LEGO’s are cool, no matter what age you are.

LEGO’s and bicycles have had a fleeting relationship. Aside from the occasional bicycle showing up in some LEGO city sets, and the Telekom sets from the early 2000’s, there aren’t a lot of bicycles for the little brick people to ride.

Hopefully, that may change. Computer artist James Dick has submitted a proposal to LEGO to have them produce a MTB set.

There is one catch, in order to be considered, the proposal needs at least 10,000 supporters.

Visit the link http://lego.cuusoo.com/ideas/view/2195 to vote for James’ proposal. And why wouldn’t you? James’ sets are seriously cool!

A Couple of Videos for Sunday

2011-11-06T09:54:00.002-07:00

I found these two videos whilst laying on the couch, surfing through some of the blogs I follow. Too good not to share.

The first one I found on Urban Velo:

My favorite part is how he pushes off with one foot when he starts.

The next video is from Neil Browne's Browne Eye Cycling Blog:

The Bicycle Gallery in Jacksonville, NC created their own video for LMFAO's "Sexy and I Know It". This version is infinitely better.

Do You Have Your "Share the Road" Plates Yet?

2011-11-03T05:56:00.004-06:00

Do you have a “Share the Road” plate on your car yet? If so, good for you! If not, there is no time to wait. 24 more people need to order plates now or the program will be discontinued by the DMV.

“This plate benefits the Share the Road initiative as it works to create awareness and safety support systems for bicyclists throughout the state. This plate generates funds for the Department of Transportation in support of this initiative…”

I can attest to the awareness part. Just this last weekend, I was asked by the technician at our local Wal-Mart tire & lube center who the cyclist was in my family. We were there picking up my daughter’s car after getting the oil changed, and he noticed the plate.

But, more important than identifying you as a cyclist, is the funds generated by the plate for the Share the Road initiative. There is a $10 special plate fee and a $25 initial contribution fee when you pick up the plate. Then an annual $25 contribution fee. It’s these fees that fund programs that help make motorists aware of our presence out there on the roads.

You don’t have to wait till your car’s registration is up for renewal, you can go to the DMV at any time and get your plates. Get a set for your car, your spouse’s car and your kid’s car. Tell your friends and extended family. Don’t let the program end.

Conan O'Brien: NYC Pedicab Driver

2011-11-02T14:14:00.000-06:00

Funny stuff from Conan.

Salt Lake City Sees Increase in Cyclists

2011-11-02T05:26:00.006-06:00

Salt Lake City’s investment in cycling infrastructure over the past year has shown results.

In a press release issued yesterday, it was reported that there was a 27 percent increase in the number of cyclists from 2010 to 2011. Improvements such as 50 lane miles of new on-road bikeways and additional sharrow lanes in the downtown area are indicated as part of the reason for the increase.

New York City, which has been heralded for its bicycle commuting, only saw a 14 percent increase during the same time.

You can read full press release here.

It's the Holiday/Indoor Cycling Season.

2011-11-01T11:45:00.001-06:00

Happy November 1st.

Seeing as it was snowing in Salt Lake City earlier today, I could also wish you a Happy Start of Indoor Cycling Season.

Yes, Indoor Cycling Season, that time were all but the most manly and die-hard cyclists retreat to the relative warmth of their basements to furiously turn the pedals, going absolutely nowhere while catching up on past seasons of their favorite shows.

Today (well, yesterday officially) was also the start to the "Holiday Season". That time of the year where food reigns supreme. From candy, to baked goods, to more candy and feasts galore! It seems like it is just one big buffet from October 31st to January 2nd.

What prompts this stating of the obvious? The fact that I need to do something to get me back on the bike, get back in shape and get ready for next year's cycling season.

Yes, back in shape. The last time I touched a bike was when I had the Fezzari under review - over a month ago.

Last year, I posted right after Thanksgiving that I intended on loosing some weight between Thanksgiving and New Year's. This year, I'm starting earlier.

The only problem, I don't know how much I weigh. The batteries in my scale have died, and I haven't wanted to replace them.

Because I seem to work better if I have a list, and clearly defined goals, here you go.

Put some batteries in the scale, and weigh myself. Post that number for all to see (accountability works, right?)
Set the bike up on the trainer downstairs, and actually use it!
You know that weight bench downstairs too? Use it also!
Stop the midnight raids on the fridge.

There you go, Starting now, and going till Monday, January 2nd I am going to strive to get back on the bike, get back in shape, and lose some weight in the process.

Wish me luck, and if you want to help or join me, misery loves company, right?

Update (11/2):

I fired up the ol' scale this morning and weighed myself. 209 is the magic number.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T07:51:00.004-06:00

While searching the innerwebs for a cycling-related Halloween picture to post, I stumbled across this jack-o-lantern created by GamJams.

I also found the stencil they made.

I know what I'm carving for next year.

Have a Happy Halloween!

Review: Fezzari Fore CR5

2011-10-26T10:52:00.002-06:00

I guess that it's about time that I got around to writing this review, seeing as I returned the bike almost a month ago...

I want to first say that I have no clue about "vertically stiff and laterally compliant", or anything of that sort. I just know if I like the way a bike rides, and I like the way the Fezzari Fore CR5 rode.

Color scheme for 2012 - flat black and silver. I like!

I'm jumping ahead of myself. I need to first start off with how I got the bike.

Fezzari is a direct retailer. You can't find their bikes in your local bike shop, you can only get them on-line, or from their retail storefront if you happen to live in or near Utah (which I do).

Unlike some on-line bike retailers, Fezzari asks a few more questions than what frame size you want - 9 questions to be exact. For their 23-Point Custom Setup, they ask your age, riding style, gender, height, weight, inseam, shoulder width, arm length, and torso length. Once they have that information, they will adjust or swap out components until they have a "semi-custom" fit for you. They also can custom-spec components for you. Want Campgnolo instead of SRAM or Shimano? Reynolds carbon wheelset instead of Mavic Kysrium SL's? Just ask.

Since I am local, I went in to their retail store/headquarters and met with Tyler directly. He asked me some questions, took some measurements and put me on the bike on a trainer to see how the fit was. After a couple of adjustments, I was ready to roll.

How did it ride? Like I said at the start of this post, I really liked it. My scale said that the bike weighed 15.75 lbs without pedals (58 cm), which is more than 5 pounds lighter than my current bike. I know what physics says - it doesn't matter whether the weight difference comes from you or the bike, but I swear that the bike just "felt" faster.

I really can't say anything negative about my experience. Once I was out on the road, I found that I needed to rotate the bars down just a little from the position they were set at on the trainer, but that is not unusual.

The "retail" price for the CR5 spec'd with SRAM Red and Mavic Kysrium SL's is $7580.00, but that isn't the price you will pay for it. The other benefit with dealing directly with the manufacturer is they give you a lower price. Their price is $4799.00. If cost is a concern, you can get essentially the same frame (same mold as the CR5 but a unidirectional carbon weave on it instead of a 3K weave. They have the same strength properties, the difference is the 3K weave is lighter) and Dura Ace/Ultegra components for $2999 by looking at the Fore CR3.

Go to fezzari.com and check out the different models available. Along with their road bike line, they have a full range of mountain bikes that include full-suspension and a 29'er.

I tried everything I could think of to convince my wife that I needed this bike, but to no avail. Go check it out, and start working on your own plan to convince your significant other that your life wouldn't be complete without a Fezzari in your stable.

Part of the Pony Express trail near my house.

Yehuda Moon on Kickstarter

2011-10-19T09:55:00.000-06:00

Good news for those of us who miss Yehuda Moon. Volumes 2, 3, and 4 of the comic strip are coming soon!

Not only will you be able to catch up with the goings on at the Kickstand Cyclery, Rick Smith has been writing some new strips for the books - to tie up some loose ends left in some of the storylines when he set down the pencil.

The books will not be out till March of 2012, but you can preorder them now through the Yehuda Moon Kickstarter page.

What are you waitig for?

"...and I Shall Call Him, Mini-Me"

2011-10-17T11:37:00.001-06:00

We can all see small facets of ourselves in our children, our genetic legacy passed down through our offspring. It could be a feature – such as a nose or a chin – that is similar to ours, or a mannerism or quirk that we recognize as ours.

Sometimes, we see something that makes it seem like we are looking at a small clone of ourselves. This past week I realized that my 9-year-old is just a smaller version of myself.

Monday or Tuesday, he came to the wife and I and wanted $25. A series of questions led to the revelation that he wanted to buy a bike from one of his friends. Further questions revealed that it was a bike without wheels. A bike that he claimed was much better than his current bike.

The wife and I were pretty much against it from the beginning, not wanting to add to the growing pile of “projects” that are cluttering our garage and back yard. The realization of exactly how much like me my son is finally hit me.

When I was a kid, I was constantly taking things apart, especially my bikes. I was also constantly getting in trouble with my dad for taking his tools and leaving them out in the yard to rust. I can’t count the number of times that I have been mad at Jackson because I have come home to my toolbox strewn across the yard, with him nowhere in sight. And not one of Jackson’s old bikes, scooters and skateboards have had a chance to live out their retirement in peace and quiet. Once they are outgrown, or not needed any longer, they are stripped down, with their parts used in one of his Frankenstien-esque “projects” (he once made a trailer for his bike out of a plastic toboggan, skateboard trucks and some old plastic toy golf bag wheels). When I changed my mind about letting Jackson purchase this bike, I pointed out how many bikes, and parts of bikes that I claim as mine call our basement home.

So, Jackson is the proud owner of another bike. It is a decent bike, that is better than the one he currently rides (I am still at a loss at why kid’s BMX bikes weigh so danged much,) We transferred his wheels and chain from his current bike to his “new” one, and after a couple of minor adjustments, it should be ready to ride.

I won’t be surprised at all if he comes home one of these days saying that another of his friends has a set of wheels that they are selling so he can resurrect his now old bike from the parts bin.

Product Review - Teva Pinner

2011-10-13T09:57:00.001-06:00

Several months ago, Teva sent me a pair of their new commuter cycling shoes for a long-term review.
Since then, I have worn them almost every day – and I’ve even managed to wear them while riding a couple of times.

The Teva Pinner (and its freeride cousin, the Links) was designed to interface with the flat pedal on your commuter or trail bike, giving you a stable platform while pedaling, without sacrificing style or walking comfort. The sole uses Teva’s Spider 365 rubber compound to give you traction in all kinds of environments and a tread pattern designed to give you a secure connection to your pedal or when you have to hoof it. Teva’s Mush® infused insole, which gives you the same comfort that you would find in their flip flops, a Shoc Pad™ in the heel and ample padding in the uppers add up to a very comfortable shoe.

The main difference between the Pinner (the shoe that I have) and the Links is the finish. The Pinner has a synthetic leather and suede upper, while the Link uses waterproof materials with Ion-mask™ technology to help shed any water and muck you may be riding through. The Link also has a heel stabilizer and rubberized toe armor to protect your feet.

What do I think of them? Well, If the second sentence of this post didn’t give it away, I really like them.

I’ve been familiar with Teva since the late 80’s when I had a pair of their original sandals which I wore all the time. I was impressed back then by their durability and comfort, so when they contacted me about their cycling shoes, I was eager to see if they lived up to their legacy.

The styling is very similar to a skateboard shoe – in fact, when I first took them out of the box, my 13-year-old immediately tried to claim them. Fortunately, he wears a larger shoe than me (he’s going to be taller than me before he’s in high-school!). The padding in the upper took me a little while to get used to – it felt tight and restrictive at first, but that is because I was used to wearing Converse All-Stars before this.

Teva Pinner

Detail of the sole

Teva Links

How do they work on the bike? Great! I used them on my fixed-gear for commuting, and riding around town with my 9-year-old. The sole flexes for walking comfort, but resists flexing in the opposite direction for stable pedaling.

Like I said, I really like them. They are a great commuter shoe, that combines performance features with a shoe that doesn’t look out of place with your normal clothes. Is there anything I would like to see in the future? A shoe that incorporates a recessed SPD pedal would be my only request,

The MSRP for the Pinner is $80 and the Links is $100. More information can be found at teva.com.

GM Responds

2011-10-12T08:01:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I mentioned GM's excessively lame ad aimed at college students, the one that basically said that if you aren't driving, you are a loser.

Well, according to GM's twitter feed today, they are listening.

The ad was ill-conceived. It's good that they are aware of that, and seem to be willing to make changes to it.

Reality Sucks? GMC Sucks!

2011-10-11T15:17:00.003-06:00

This ad has appeared recently in college newspapers all over the country.

image originally from the bikeportland.org site

Yes, I know that it is an ad from a car company, and they need to do whatever they can to make their product seem appealing - especially in the current market where the automotive industry is taking a beating - but showing the guy on the bike hiding from the cute girl in the car and implying that his life sucks because he "has" to ride his bike to school is just simply lame.

I wish that I would have been into cycling "back in the day" when I went to college. I remember fondly the frustrations of trying to find a place to park - stalking the students coming out of their classes for the prime spots - then running to class, only to show up late because you wasted too much time trying to get a good spot, and still ended up parking out in the boonies. Plus, let's add a new car payment on top of books, tuition, and all the other expenditures that come with college life.

Reality sucks. Sure, whatever. Give me a bike any day.

Farewell, Yehuda

2011-10-05T10:33:00.000-06:00

Yehuda Moon is arguably the best cycling-related comic on the web - or anywhere for that matter.

However, visitors to the Yehuda Moon website on September 27th were greeted with the following instead of their daily strip...

Rick Smith, the creator of Yehuda Moon has set down his pencil indefinitely.

After over 3 years of getting to know the employees and customers of the Kickstand Cyclery, we have to say farewell.

The first strip, from 22 January 2008

Good luck to you, Rick. Here's hoping for smooth roads and tailwinds in your future. Thank you for giving us a glimpse, albeit brief, into Yehuda's life.

Neglect

2011-10-03T10:12:00.001-06:00

The word of the day – more like the past month – is neglect.
I’ve neglected my bikes, I’ve neglected riding, and I’ve neglected this blog.

My basement is in complete disarray, all of my bikes need some kind of maintenance, and they are patiently waiting for me to get around to it. The workbench is cluttered with used water bottles in need of a washing, tools and assorted parts. And, the cycling-related laundry is starting to accumulate.

I’ve only been on one decent ride in the past month and a half. I haven’t even been consistent in going out for the weekly Saturday morning ride with my friends.

Most obvious to you, I’m sure is the scarcity of posts in the past month. I have three blog posts – reviews of products that I have been given or loaned – that I need to write, but haven’t found the will to write them yet.

I’ve fallen into a slump and I’m having trouble climbing out of it. It’s almost like a seasonal depression, brought on by daylight savings, shorter days, and the start of the school year.

Yesterday, the wife and I went for a drive up the canyon to take a look at nature’s palate of fall colors, and all I could think of was how beautiful fall riding is, along a tree-lined trail with the leaves falling from the trees, and the crunch of them under my tires. Maybe that is what I need to lift me out of this slump, Maybe the desire to ride through the changing colors of fall is enough to get me to stop neglecting things.

Maybe…

The Dirty Dash - The Photos

2011-09-28T11:35:00.002-06:00

The "Despicable Minions" before the run.

One benefit of our Minion costumes, we're easy to find in a crowd (under the arch at the front of the starting line).

I am so glad that someone got a picture of my belly flop! Easily my favorite pic!

Wimps!

In case there is any question as to why I came out of the run injured, look at how dirty I am compared to the rest of the team.

The Dirty Dash - Mud and Broken Toes

2011-09-26T21:32:00.001-06:00

This past weekend was the Dirty Dash.

For those of you not in the know, the Dirty Dash is a 10k (5k optional) trail/obstacle/mud run held at various locations in the west. The objective of this run is to have fun and get as muddy as possible.

This was my second year at this event, and I have to say that the organizers seriously upped their game! There was way more mud and several new obstacles, such as the mud filled trenches that we encountered as soon as we climbed up the starting hill, the "hometown special" which was a series of 6" pipes laid across a mud-filled trench that we had to work our way over, and a 20' cargo net that one had to go over and down. Not content with just adding new obstacles, they improved the existing obstacles with a liberal dosage of mud and ice-cold water from the several snow-making machines (this is a ski resort during the winter seasons) placed along the course.

You may recall that last year, I ended up with a minor fracture in my left ankle - a partial tear of the tendon away from the bone of the ankle from a spill in the "Hog Wallow"- tire obstacle. I guess that the fact that I am going to come out of the Dirty Dash injured is well on its way as a tradition.

This year, I broke my little toe on the left foot. I felt that I landed wrong in the first trench we encountered on the course. I continued on, but definitely favored that foot for the rest of the run. After I showered all of the mud off, I was finally able to get a good look at my toe. I apologize for the picture right now.

Yeah, nasty. And, the bruised section of the toe doesn't look that good either. It only improved (by that I mean the bruise got nastier and bigger) over the weekend. I also ended up with the expected scrapes one would get from wallowing around in the mud.

The biggest tragedy - even worse than a broken toe - was the fact that I lost my sunglasses in the final mud pit. This year, the mud pit at the finish line was divided into two pits. I remembered that I almost lost my glasses last year, so I handed them off to Greg so I could belly-flop into the mud. I retrieved them before the second pit, but ended up loosing them as I slid face-first into the second pit. :-(

My family wasn't able to come up to watch, so I don't have any pictures. Fortunately, one of my teammates' husbands was up there and took a picture of us mid-race.

Our team was the "Minions" from Despicable Me

As soon as pictures are available from Flo-Foto, I'll post them up here.

Once again, I had an absolute blast, and can't wait until next year. I've been told that they are going to attempt to out-do themselves next year!

Magnetic Poetry

2011-09-21T15:01:00.000-06:00

Today for lunch, I made a trip to the local library.

On my way out, I decided to stop in the Friends of the Library Store, located in the Atrium.

Inside, I found this among the other Magnetic Poetry Kits:

How cool! A Magnetic Poetry Kit for Bicycle Lovers. I opened up the top flap to look inside...

Yep, you can't talk about bicycles without mentioning your crotch!

The Library store sells this, and the other Magnetic Poetry Kits for $12.

Caution: Review in Progress!

2011-09-18T09:04:00.001-06:00

Last week, I hinted on twitter that something was in the works.

Well, I guess that I should announce that for the next week or so, I am reviewing a Fezzari Fore CR5.

Tyler with Fezzari offered the bike up for review when I saw him at the Tour of Utah this year. Finally, we were able to coordinate our schedules, and I picked up the bike Thursday night.

I'll save any talk about how it rides until the post-review write-up.

I wish I was in Las Vegas

2011-09-14T12:55:00.000-06:00

I'm not a fan of Las Vegas. It's hot, dirty and crowded.

I do, however, wish I was there this week.

Why?

Interbike

A giant convention center filled with over 1000+ bike related brands from around the world? Can you say bike geek heaven?

Alas, I'm in Utah, not Nevada this week.

One of these years, I do want to go. It's just a question of time and money. Maybe next year.

If, like me, you are somewhere other than the Sands Convention Center, you can get a taste of Interbike through the innerwebs. I would suggest checking out Interbike TV, where David Bernstein of the FredCast is giving an inside look at the latest news, product launches, and highlights from the show.

Maybe next year.

Write your Senators!

2011-09-13T10:15:00.002-06:00

This is an important message from the League of American Bicyclists:

This year, around $700 million of Federal transportation funds, which is less than 2 percent of total transportation dollars, will be spent on bicycling and walking. In 2012 that figure might be a big fat zero. Please contact your Senators TODAY and let them know you support continued funding for biking and walking.

In the next few days, Senator Coburn will ask Congress to eliminate the federal Transportation Enhancements program – the primary funding source for the past 20 years for bike lanes, trails, bike racks on buses, bike education etc. This isn’t safe or smart; it’s not good for the economy or the environment; this is bad health policy and bad transportation policy. But they are going to try because they don’t think bicycling matters.

Even though bicycling projects create more jobs per dollar than highway-only projects and cutting enhancements won’t impact the deficit – the money just won’t be spent on bicycling – some Members of Congress want to force us backwards to a 1950s highway-only mindset: as if oil embargoes, congestion, smog, the obesity epidemic and climate change never happened.

Now is the time to save biking and walking. So, we are asking you to contact your Senator and urge them to support continued funding for biking and walking. Don’t let them take away this vital investment program for smart, sustainable, safe transportation choices.

Please take action today.

Please contact your senators. It's very easy, just enter your zip code, and it will create a message ready to be sent to your senators.

T-Shirt of the Day - Nerd Alert

2011-09-09T13:35:00.001-06:00

This may come as a complete surprise to some of you, but I'm somewhat of a nerd.

Yes, It's true.

Since I am admitting my nerdness, you’ll forgive me for these two shirts today. Technically, they’re not bicycles, but I still thought they were cool.

Unfortunately, neither of these shirts is available.

The first one is from 604 Republic, and is in their Design Gallery. If it gets enough votes, it may be made into a shirt.

The second one is from Woot, and didn’t make the cut.

Another nerd confession. Yes, I liked Tron Legacy. No, I didn’t think it was perfect, but I still enjoyed it.

Something Fun

2011-09-08T07:53:00.000-06:00

Something fun. We all could use a little fun every so often, couldn't we?

This video is from 2007, but I saw it again Saturday night as the wife and I were out with some friends.

Enjoy!

2011 Tour de France Clean?

2011-08-30T05:02:00.001-06:00

Yeah, yeah, yeah...

I know what I said yesterday.

But, this story seemed interesting enough to repost..

From VeloNews:

Authorities found no evidence of doping in the final samples taken at the 2011 Tour de France, the UCI announced Monday.

The cycling union said testing done at labs in Châtenay-Malabry, Lausanne and Cologne all showed negative results.

“This excellent news further highlights the quality of the various anti-doping measures brought in by the UCI in recent years, especially the introduction of the biological passport,” UCI president Pat McQuaid said. “It also indicates that there has been a change of mentality and behavior within the peloton. Our sport is on the right track and we will continue to use all means available to protect it.”

Katusha’s Alexander Kolobnev tested positive for a banned diuretic during the first week of the Tour de France and left the race. He has not yet been suspended.

2010 Tour de France winner Alberto Contador is still fighting a positive from that year’s Tour. His hearing before the Court for Arbitration of Sport is scheduled for November.

Could it be? have we finally had a clean Tour? Or, have the dopers perfected their skills of masking beyond the level of detection by the UCI?

Are we pragmatically skeptical, or blissfully optimistic?

Please Stand By

2011-08-29T13:33:00.001-06:00

Pardon me while I take a short break.

School is back in session for all of the offspring, and the spousal unit. What that means for me, is my mornings are now occupied with my role as "chief lunch creator and bag filler", and I am also doing evening duty as "homework helper".

I need to re-aclimate myself to this new schedule, and where blogging will fall into it.

Be back soon...

Outdoor Retailer Summer Market: Photos - part 2

2011-08-26T05:36:00.001-06:00

The remainder of the pictures from Outdoor Retailer. Enjoy!

Lin Socks is moving into the compression market, with these sleves and socks due out to the public soon.

Evil Clown was the first pair of Lin socks that I purchased.

Clean Bottle. I managed to pick up one of their bottles at the Tour of Utah (literally "pick up" - discarded at the feed zone on Stage 3. I washed it before I used it!) Jury is still out on my thoughts about it. May need to do a "bottle shootout" post soon.

Some of the accessories offered by Timbuk2.

my favorite, a credit-card sized multitool and pouch/wallet.

Rasta colors are back!

The North Face showing off some of their cycling clothes.

I am a big fan of Yankz! speed laces. I have them on both pair of running shoes. I was especially excited to see that they are venturing into the "bento box" arena with their Bicycle Fuel System bags. A couple of cool features on their bags is that all of them are attached to the bike via a velcro strip for easy swapping of bags, and some of them are lined with some insulating material, so you can load up your bag, store it in the fridge or freezer, and pop it on the bike before the ride.

Mountain Biking in High School? Yes, please! NICA is working on having high-school mountain biking programs in place coast-to-coast by 2020. Several programs are in place, with more in the works.

Adult-sized big wheel? What else is there to say than, Hell Yeah!!

Cycling specific high heels from ??. I hate it when I don't remember where I took a picture.

The story behind this: After I returned the cruiser bike I rented to go to lunch, I dropped a business card for this drawing. at about 4, I get a call saying that I won their Commuter Challenge, and that I could come out to the bike rental area to pick up my prize. What did I get? A polar bottle, bike computer, cable lock, and an Osprey messenger bag!

I have always liked Tarma Design's necklaces. New is their Spirit line - based on watercolor paintings by artist Miguel Yanez. Both road and mountain bikes are represented.

Outdoor Retailer Summer Market: Photos - part 1

2011-08-25T08:20:00.000-06:00

Now that I have the Tour of Utah out of the way, I can get back to the Outdoor Retailer show.

I previously talked about the Open Air Demo at Jordanelle, and showed some of the t-shirts that I saw this year. Now, here is part 1 of the day I spent at the actual show.

Mobile sound system. I understand that this was used on the cruiser ride that took place one night after the show.

Some very cool recycled messenger bags made out of inner tubes and billboard materials by Alchemy Goods. These guys are so cool, that their business card is even made from a bicycle innertube

Nirve bicycles, a regular at the show. The Hello Kitty bike even exceeds my level of pink on a bike!

I tried Contour's camera as part of a rental program last year, and was impressed with it. New for this year is bluetooth connectivity allowing you to use your smartphone (iPhone, Android comming soon) as a viewfinder and controller for your camera.

Krieg is actually a manufacturer of chalk bags for climbing, known for their wild and funky patterns. Not too long ago, they made up some saddle bags out of the same material, and they were a hit.

Teva has introduced a line of commuting/freeride shoes. They were kind enough to send me a pair to review. I've been wearing them for over a month now, and I love them! Full review coming soon.

Larger size for Camelbak's excellent Podium Chill line of bottles

Bikes were used in displays for several companies - even if that company had little to do with cycling. I don't remember who this was, but the colorful rickshaw bike caught my eye.

Once again, Electra partnered with Park 'n Pedal, and had a fleet of bikes available for attendees to use for riding around town.

Yes, I took one of the rental bikes out for lunch. I wasn't able to make any lunch plans this year, so I pedaled over to Union Street Eats - an awesome vegan Mexican food cart. I highly recommend the tacos La Paz.

I even wore a helmet this time!

Next time, more pictures...

Tour of Utah: Stage 5 Photos

2011-08-23T05:15:00.014-06:00

Like I mentioned last week, I had the awesome opportunity to ride in one of the team cars for the final stage of this year's Tour of Utah.

What an incredible place to view a stage race from! Not only did I have a great view of the race, but I had the race radio right next to me, and the DS of Team Spidertech driving. His insight from his years of pro racing was incredible to listen to.

This wraps up my coverage of the Tour of Utah for this year. I am extremely grateful that I had the opportunity once again to follow the race as part of the media, and my thanks go out to everyone who made that possible, especially to you, dear readers.

Enjoy the last of the pictures from the 2011 Tour of Utah...

a little pre-race massage of the legs

my seat for the next several hours.

Steve, in the driver's seat

Chad, catching a few z's

mobile adjustment

loaded up with bottles for the rest of the team

Above 8 pictures: Chad had to deal with one flat on the stage.

My ride for the stage. Caddy wagon, not too bad...

Tour of Utah: Stage 4 Photos

2011-08-22T05:43:00.029-06:00

Stage 4 was brutal for the riders! What with the heat and the climb up State St. to the capitol at the end of each lap, the peleton completely splintered in the later laps of this circuit race.

I actually rode in a media car for the first lap (never done that before!), then hiked down the course towards the feed zone. On my way down there, one of the staff cars stopped and asked me if I wanted a ride. He then dropped me at the feed zone, and picked me up on the next lap. I went around the course that way - getting dropped off at various spots, then picked up after the next lap.

There were quite a few riders from New Zealand riding in the Tour of Utah this year. Cool "Kiwi Crossing" sign a fan put up for them.

BOB ROLL!!! YEAH!

Tomorrow, Stage 5 pictures...

Video of the Day: Splinterbike in Action

2011-08-20T06:30:00.004-06:00

Back in May, I posted about a couple of guys in England who were going for the world record on a bike made entirely out of wood, dubbed Splinterbike.

Well, on Thursday, they broke the world record with a run of 11.25 mph.

Here's the video:

Congrats to them for a sucessful run. Not a blazingly fast run, but remember, this bike is made out of only wood and glue.

As they said on twitter, they'll be back!

Food Friday: LÄRABAR

2011-08-19T06:10:00.002-06:00

LÄRABAR is one of those bars that I have seen in the stores, but have never tried – until Outdoor Retailer.

The unique thing about LÄRABARS are that they are 100% raw, all natural, whole food, vegan, and made with no more than 9 ingredients (one of the bars, cashew cookie, only has 2 ingredients).

I tried several of the bars at their booth at Outdoor Retailer, and found all of them to be very good.

With 19 different flavors, there is something for everyone. Check them out at http://www.larabar.com/

Tour of Utah: Stage 3 Photos

2011-08-18T06:30:00.002-06:00

Time trials - from the spectator standpoint - are boring. There's no attacks or breakaways, no swirling mass of color - also known as the peleton - roaring past. Just a lone cyclist against the clock. Most of the time, you can't even see where they are out on the course.

As a photographer, I love time trials. Miller Motorsports Park is an ideal location for a time trial, and an ideal location to get some great shots of the cyclists as they race against their solitary foe - time.

this was a popular corner for us photographers

Tour of Utah: Stage 2 Pictures

2011-08-17T06:17:00.000-06:00

Due to needing to put some face time in at the day job this past week, I wasn't able to attend Stage 1 in Ogden.

I didn't get as many pictures for Stage 2 since I only saw the race from the start and finish lines. Of those pictures, there were fewer that I was happy with.

Tour of Utah: Prologe Photos

2011-08-16T06:43:00.001-06:00

Presented without comment

Tour of Utah: Stage 5 - Goin' for a Ride!

2011-08-15T12:22:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was a good day to watch some bike racing!

The Colombian team Gubernacion was dominant for the entire race, with almost the entire team at the front of the peleton or in the breakaway for the 106 miles from Park City to Snowbird. On the final climb, Henao tried several times to break away from Leipheimer, but Levi stayed right on his wheel, and wouldn’t let him go. In the end, Henao took the stage, with Levi taking the GC for the 2nd year in a row.

Here are the results of the stage, and the final GC results:

Stage 5 results:

152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 4:20:13 0:00:00
1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 4:20:13 0:00:00
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 4:20:31 0:00:18
31 DANIELSON Thomas GRM USA 4:21:03 0:00:50
151 SEVILLA Oscar GOB ESP 4:21:38 0:01:25
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 4:22:46 0:02:33
73 MC CARTY Pat CSM USA 4:22:46
25 BUTLER Christopher BMC USA 4:22:46
42 DUGGAN Timothy LIQ USA 4:22:51 0:02:38
71 EUSER Lucas CSM USA 4:22:51

General Classification results:

1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 15:53:12 0:00:00
152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 15:53:35 0:00:23
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 15:53:57 0:00:45
151 SEVILLA Oscar GOB ESP 15:55:06 0:01:54
31 DANIELSON Thomas GRM USA 15:57:01 0:03:49
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 15:57:03 0:03:51
42 DUGGAN Timothy LIQ USA 15:57:56 0:04:44
73 MC CARTY Pat CSM USA 15:58:15 0:05:03
71 EUSER Lucas CSM USA 15:58:46 0:05:34
24 LOUDER Jeff BMC USA 16:00:43 0:07:31

Overall Leader (yellow) Jersey: LEIPHEIMER Levi
Best Utah Rider (dk. blue) Jersey: LOUDER jeff
Sprint (copper) Jersey: VAN UDEN Roman
KOM (snowflake) Jersey: LEIPHEIMER Levi
Best Young Rider (lt. blue) Jersey: GIRALDO Cristian

So, yesterday I hinted about the final stage. Well, I had a unique viewing position for the final stage – the front passenger seat in Team Spidertech’s car!

The day started out as normal. I drove up to Park City, planning on taking some pictures at the start and of the departure. Then I would drive to Snowbird, wait around until the riders arrived at the finish, and get some finish-line shots and photos of the podium ceremony. Just the same as the last 2 years.

Up at the start, I ran into a couple of media friends, David and Jared. David was riding in the RealCyclist.com team car, and Jared was riding in one of the media cars. They both suggested that I go ask one of the teams if they had room in their car. They said that I would get an incredible view of the race. Jared suggested I go talk to Spidertech, a Canadian team that just advanced to the Pro-Continental rankings. He said that they were looking for someone for Saturday’s stage.

I went over to Spidertech’s team area and asked about riding with them. The mechanics told me to talk to Steve. Steve said that they did have a seat, but it might be a little cramped – since he needed to make sure Chad – the mechanic – had enough room in the back. I was happy just to have a seat, and said that I wouldn’t mind at all.

Only after we started off, did I realize that the “Steve” I talked to – and who was currently driving the car was Steve Bauer, the DS (Director Sportif) for Spidertech (for those of you who follow pro cycling, yes, that Steve Bauer. For those of you who don’t, go here).

It was easily the most exciting time I have spent in the front seat of a car. We were the 5th car back in the caravan – and I had a incredible view of the action in the peleton. Plus, the race radio was right next to me, giving constant updates to the race.

If you are a nervous passenger, I would suggest not riding in a team car. The best way I could describe it was a choreographed ballet of chaos in 2 ton metal boxes at 50+ mph. We were literally inches away from the other team cars, hurtling down the roads at breakneck speeds while weaving in and out of the caravan to deliver water bottles to the riders, or to fix a mechanical (Spidertech had one flat that Chad had to deal with on the stage) all the while avoiding the other team cars, Comm cars and cyclists. Steve at one point asked me if I believe in God. I said that I did, but I didn’t want to see him yet!

I didn’t see the start, or watch Levi and Sergio cross the finish line, but I had one of the best seats ever to watch the race!

A huge thank you to Steve Bauer, Chad Grochowina, the riders and everyone else at Team Spidertech for giving me the opportunity to ride along on the final stage of the 2011 Tour of Utah.

Photos are coming. This week!

Tour of Utah: Stage 4 Interviews

2011-08-14T23:18:00.002-06:00

I didn't post the results from Stage 4, and at this time, it seems irrelevant to do so.

Before the stage started, I had the chance to talk to a couple of the riders. Nick Frey with Jamis Sutter Home. Nick had some problems prior to his start at Friday's time trial - I talked to the Jamis mechanic yesterday after his start. Here's Nick's take on things.

I also talked to Michael Creed with Kelly Benefit Strategies. Mike is also an occasional co-host on the District cycling podcast with a couple of guys from DC, Gregg and Adam.

I tried to get Mike to talk some trash about Greg and Adam. (All in jest, Gregg is a friend, and they have a great podcast. I highly recommend you check it out!).

Tomorrow, I'll talk about the last stage, and why it was one of the best days (for me). if you follow me on twitter, you already know what I;m talking about...

Okay, I decided to post the results after all.

Stage 4:

153 ACEVEDO Javier GOB COL 2:56:18 0:00:00 13
65 MEGIAS Javier TT1 ESP 2:56:23 0:00:05 6
63 BERTOGLIATI Rubens TT1 SUI 2:56:24 0:00:06 4
91 MANCEBO Francisco RCC ESP 2:56:24 1
26 BEYER Chad BMC USA 2:56:24
71 EUSER Lucas CSM USA 2:56:24
73 MC CARTY Pat CSM USA 2:56:24
42 DUGGAN Timothy LIQ USA 2:56:24 5
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 2:56:24
84;"JONES Christopher UHC USA 2:56:24

General Classification:

1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 11:32:59 0:00:00
152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 11:33:22 0:00:23
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 11:33:26 0:00:27
151 SEVILLA Oscar GOB ESP 11:33:28 0:00:29
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 11:34:17 0:01:18
42 DUGGAN Timothy LIQ USA 11:35:05 0:02:06
91 MANCEBO Francisco RCC ESP 11:35:08 0:02:09
153 ACEVEDO Javier GOB COL 11:35:26 0:02:27
11VAN GARDEREN Tejay THR USA 11:35:26
73 MC CARTY Pat CSM USA 11:35:29 0:02:30

Tour of Utah: Stage 3 Results

2011-08-12T23:48:00.008-06:00

Today is Tejay Van Garderen/s birthday, and what better way to celebrate than to win the time trial.

As expected, the GC was upset, with Levi Leipheimer now in yellow.

There were a few problems at the start of the time trial. A couple of rider's bikes had to be modified to meet UCI regulations. I talked to one of the guys with Jamis about Nick Frey's bike. Nick nearly missed his start time due to needing modifications to his aero bars.

Here are the results:

Stage 3 Results:

11 VAN GARDEREN Tejay THR USA 0:17:33.640 0:00:00
1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 0:17:39.580 0:00:06
13 GRETSCH Patrick THR GER 0:17:43.750 0:00:10
108 WETTERHALL Alexander EDR SWE 0:17:51.230 0:00:18
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 0:17:52.240 0:00:19
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 0:17:58.220 0:00:25
15 PATE Danny THR USA 0:18:00.920 0:00:27
31 DANIELSON Thomas GRM USA 0:18:03.160 0:00:30
124 ZIRBEL Tom JSH USA 0:18:03.230
23 HINCAPIE George BMC USA 0:18:03.990

General Classification:

1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 8:35:03 0:00:00
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 8:35:30 0:00:27
151 SEVILLA RIBERA Oscar GOB ESP 8:35:32 0:00:29
152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 8:35:59 0:00:56
131 ANTHONY Jesse KBS USA 8:36:27 0:01:24
11 VAN GARDEREN Tejay THR USA 8:37:30 0:02:27
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 8:37:53 0:02:50
31 DANIELSON Thomas GRM USA 8:38:02 0:02:59
23 HINCAPIE George BMC RACING TEAM BMC USA 8:38:20 0:03:17
103 BAUER Jack ENDURA RACING EDR NZL 8:38:23 0:03:20

Overall Leader (yellow) Jersey: LEIPHEIMER Levi
Sprint (copper) Jersey: VAN UDEN Roman
KOM (snowflake) Jersey: BERTOGLIATI Ruben
Best Young Rider (lt. blue) Jersey: VAN GARDEREN Tejay
Best Utah Rider (dk. blue) Jersey: LOUDER Jeff
Most Agressive Rider (Orange) Jersey: GRETSCH Patrick

What's Wrong in this Picture?

2011-08-12T08:54:00.001-06:00

Saw this at the finish line expo yesterday at the Tour of Utah.

Miller Lite is a sponsor of the Tour of Utah this year, and is the presenting sponsor of the Best Utah Rider Jersey. At their tent you can enter a drawing to win one of 5 bikes.

If you thought this was an isolated mistake, I saw this bike in the VIP tent...

Tour of Utah: Stage 2 Results

2011-08-11T23:35:00.012-06:00

I promise pictures are coming. But for now, here are the results for Stage 2.

Stage 2 Results:

103 BAUER Jack EDR NZL 3:33:43 0:00:00 10 20
46 VIVIANI Elia LIQ ITA 3:33:43 0:00:00 6
85 KEOUGH Jacob UHC USA 3:33:43 0:00:00 4
86 FORSTER Robert UHC GER 3:33:43 0:00:00
35 SUMMERHILL Danny GRM USA 3:33:43 0:00:00
24 LOUDER Jeff BMC USA 3:33:43 0:00:00
98 NANKERVIS Tommy RCC AUS 3:33:43 0:00:00
107 THWAITES Scott EDR GBR 3:33:43 0:00:00
41 CIMOLAI Davide LIQ ITA 3:33:43 0:00:00
143VAN UDEN Roman PBR NZL 3:33:43 0:00:00 3

General Classification:

152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 8:17:11 0:00:00
151 SEVILLA Oscar GOB ESP 8:17:18 0:00:07
1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 8:17:24 0:00:13
131 ANTHONY Jesse KBS USA 8:17:29 0:00:18
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 8:17:32 0:00:21
91 MANCEBO Francisco RCC ESP 8:19:54 0:02:43
11 VAN GARDEREN Tejay THR USA 8:19:57 0:02:46
31 DANIELSON Thomas GRM USA 8:19:59 0:02:48
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 8:20:01 0:02:50
93 GRAJALES Cesar RCC COL 8:20:04 0:02:53

Overall Leader (yellow) Jersey: HENAO Sergio
Sprint (copper) Jersey: VAN UDEN Roman
KOM (polka-dot) Jersey: BERTOGLIATI Ruben
Best Young Rider (lt. blue) Jersey: VAN GARDEREN Tejay
Best Utah Rider (dk. blue) Jersey: LOUDER Jeff
Most Agressive Rider (Orange) Jersey: ANDERSON John

Pictures and videos will follow soon. I promise.

Tour of Utah: Stage 1 Results and Tour Tracker

2011-08-10T22:53:00.004-06:00

Even though I had to make an appearance at the day job today, and couldn't be in Ogden for Stage 1 of the Tour of Utah, I didn't miss anything. Thanks to the Tour Tracker.

The Tour Tracker does a great job of putting all of the information you might need in one convenient place. Not only do you have live video of the race (at one point the cameraman must have fallen asleep, or they forgot to cut to another camera, because we had several minutes of watching the grass on the side of the road), but it also has a map and elevation profile showing where the riders are, a list of the riders in the breakaway, chase groups, and notable riders in the main peleton and updates. The only thing that I miss - and I am finding it hard to believe - is the almost incessant ramblings of Paul and Phil, or the unintellibile mumblings of Sean Kelly (for those of you who get your racing fix through Eurosport). There were times where there was no sound on the video.

Still, the good outweighs the bad. Go check it out.

On to today's stage results.

Jesse Anthony took the stage with an impressive sprint finish. This was the biggest stage win in Anthony's career. Henao keeps the yellow jersey for another day thanks to his involvement in the breakaway group.

131 ANTHONY Jesse KBS USA 4:39:29
152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 4:39:29 0:00:00
151 SEVILLA Oscar GOB ESP 4:39:29 0:00:00
1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 4:39:29 0:00:00
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 4:39:29 0:00:00
101 VOSS Paul EDR GER 4:42:04 0:02:35
81 SUTHERLAND Rory UHC AUS 4:42:04
112 PINKHAM Chase BPC USA 4:42:04
56 GORATO Maurizio GEO ITA 4:42:04
72 DE LUNE Flavio CSM MEX 4:42:04

Overall Results:

152 HENAO Sergio GOB COL 4:43:28 0:00:00
151 SEVILLA Oscar GOB ESP 4:43:35 0:00:07
1 LEIPHEIMER Levi RSH USA 4:43:41 0:00:13
131 ANTHONY Jesse KBS USA 4:43:46 0:00:18
4 BRAJKOVIC Janez RSH SLO 4:43:49 0:00:21
91 MANCEBO Francisco RCC ESP 4:46:11 0:02:43
11 VAN GARDEREN Tejay THR USA 4:46:14 0:02:46
31 DANIELSON Thomas GRM USA 4:46:16 0:02:48
33 VANDEVELDE Christian GRM USA 4:46:18 0:02:50
103 BAUER Jack EDR NZL 4:46:19 0:02:51

Overall Leader (yellow) Jersey: HENAO Sergio
Sprint (bronze) Jersey: ANTHONY Jesse
KOM (polka-dot) Jersey: BERTOGLIATI Rubens
Best Young Rider (lt. blue) Jersey: VAN GARDEREN Tejay
Best Utah Rider (dk. blue) Jersey: WREN Tyler
Most Agressive Rider (Orange) Jersey: THOMPSON Jay

Tour of Utah: Prologue

2011-08-09T22:14:00.004-06:00

For 2011, the Tour of Utah went to Park City for a new prologue course. A difficult 2 km uphill course greeted the riders this morning. In the end, Sergio Henao took the yellow jersey with a time of 4'05" Teammate, and 3rd place finisher Oscar Sevilla attributed his and Sergio's good performance to training in Colombia, which he said had hills similar to Utah.

Here are the top 10 finishers:

Sergio HENAO Gobernacion Indeportes Antioquia COL .04’05”
Francisco MANCEBO RealCyclist.com ESP .04’07”
Oscar SEVILLA Gobernacion Indeportes Antioquia ESP .04’10”
Tejay VAN GARDEREN HTC-Highroad USA .04’10”
Tom DANIELSON Team Garmin-Cervelo USA .04’12”
Levi LEIPHEIMER Team RadioShack USA .04’12”
Christian VANDEVELDE Team Garmin-Cervelo USA .04’14”
Jack BAUER Endura Racing NZL .04’15”
Tyler WREN Jamis-Sutter Home USA .04’16”
Cesear GRAJALES RealCyclist.com COL .04’17”

Overall Leader (yellow) Jersey: Sergio HENAO
Sprint (bronze) Jersey: not awarded today
KOM (polka-dot) Jersey: not awarded today
Best Young Rider (lt. blue) Jersey: Tejay VAN GARDEREN
Most Agressive Rider (orange) Jersey: not awarded today
Best Utah Rider (dk. blue) Jersey: Tyler WREN

Due to a problem with bandwidth, I'll have to upload pictures at a later time.

Tomorrow is the first stage in Ogden. I unfortunately will not be able to attend, but I'll post results when they are available.

Outdoor Retailer: T-Shirts

2011-08-08T19:38:00.002-06:00

If you're a regular reader of my blog, you know of my love of t-shirts, especially bicycle-themed t-shirts. Here are a few shirts that I saw during Outdoor Retailer. Enjoy!

Very cool shirt from Nola Tees. (no, the second picture isn't a tee, but it is a better picture of the design - which I think is awesome!)

Chewbacca on a fixie? Bigfoot? Awesome!!

You can find these, and more really cool shirts at Endurance Conspiracy.

My bad, I don't remember the name of the company that was displaying this shirt. Like the design, however.

Timbuk2 - my favorite bag company - is expanding into clothing.

Here is one of their shirts, and an awesome shop apron.

Cool shirt from The North Face. Obviously meant for the downhill mountain biking croud.

Electra Bikes are also expanding into soft goods. One of their shirts they were showing out at the bike rental facility.

Another company that I liked their shirts, but didn't grab any information. I've tried to do a search for Laid-Back, and have come up with zip. If anyone has any information about them, let me know.

Saw someone wearing this shirt at the Open Air Demo. If you can't read it, it says: "Warning!! Adventure racing is dangerous. Participants may be seriously injured or killed"

Sunday Funnies

2011-08-07T04:50:00.001-06:00

Outdoor Retailer: Open Air Demo

2011-08-06T09:05:00.000-06:00

I fully intended on coming home from the Open Air Demo and posting about it, but one thing led to another, and I ended up crashing on the couch. Then, yesterday ended up being a long day – so no post again.

Now that I have some time, let’s talk Outdoor Retailer.

Like I said, I had never been to the Open Air Demo before, and I was looking forward to it this year. I assumed that there wouldn’t be too much – if any – cycling related stuff up there, but I wanted to go anyway.

My assumptions turned out to be correct, but I was surprised at what was there. Both Scott Bicycles, and Raleigh/DiamondBack had tents up there showing off their 2012 line of bikes. One thing that struck me as odd was that both companies were allowing their bikes to be taken out for rides, but Scott did not have any helmets for people to use. Maybe I’m naïve by thinking that they should have had helmets, but especially since I didn’t expect any bike companies to have their bikes up there, I didn’t bring a helmet with me. Raleigh, on the other hand, had a helmet for use, and they had a box with various flat and clipless pedals for people to use. People for Bikes, and IMBA were also up there gathering signatures and pledges.

The majority of the exhibitors up there had something to with watersports. There were probably 30 or so SUP (stand-up paddleboard), kayak and canoe companies that had their demo fleets out on the lake for people to ride.

The main draw for me at the Open Air Demo was the Paddle/Pedal Challenge. I did get a chance to participate – in fact I was the first person! What you did was go down to the beach, and ride a stand up paddleboard on a 1 mile course while they timed you. Then you walked up to the start of the bike course, and rode either a 3 mile road course, or a 3 mile road/off-road course, where they logged your time.

I have never before been on a stand-up paddleboard, and let me say that it is one heck of a workout! Not only does it work your core because of the paddling, but I came off of that board with my legs shaking because of how much I was using them to keep my balance. I am proud to say that I didn’t fall off once out on the course. I did have to drop to my knees because of a small swell from a passing boat, but I didn’t end up in the water. Once I got back, I had the people take my picture for the blog, and I fell of 3 times during the photo op!

For the pedal leg, I grabbed a full carbon CX bike from Raleigh. Let me just say that I want! It was a very nice riding bike. I couldn’t say if it was vertically stiff, and laterally compliant, all I know is that I had a blast riding it on the dirt trails

After I was done, they wrote down both of my times on a card, and sent me over to the prize tent. Everyone got something for participating, and the person with the best overall time won some grand prize. I was not that person.

What I choose for my prize was a Dry Case. A waterproof case for my phone.

Enjoy some more pictures from the Open Air Demo.

Food Friday: Spinners Grill

2011-08-05T05:50:00.004-06:00

Have you ever come across something and wondered “why”?

I had one of those moments this past weekend. In my goodie bag from the Spudman Triathlon I found a flyer for a restaurant in Rupert – a small town on the other side of the freeway from Burley. That is not the odd thing, what is odd is the name and theme of the restaurant. Spinners Grill – a bicycle-themed restaurant.

Rupert – in fact the whole region – is not known for its bicycle friendliness. I’m not saying that they’re hostile to bicycles, I am saying that bicycles seem to be more of an unknown entity. In the 17+ years that I have been traveling to that area, I don’t recall seeing a single road bike, or lycra-clad rider on the road. There is one bike shop – Rock’s Cycling and Fitness – in the entire valley, and the only events or races I am aware of are Spudman, and Vikingman (another triathlon which takes place on the same section of the Snake river – only on the opposite bank a month later). The area is a rural farming community.

Due to a sense of curiosity, and a draw to all things bicycle, I had to go check it out Saturday afternoon. As I entered the restaurant, I was greeted by the hostess who had participated in the Spudman as part of a team earlier in the day. She asked me how I did and talked about the race as she showed me to my table. The walls were adorned with cycling memorabilia, and there were some vintage bicycles mounted on top of the partitions. The waitresses “uniforms” consisted of jerseys, and there was a TV in the corner showing an old stage of the Tour de France (2003, I believe).

The bicycle theme extends to the menu, where you can choose from a “seat post” salad, “flat tire” sandwich, “derailleur” burgers etc… Unfortunately – for me – they didn’t have any vegetarian or vegan options. I ended up getting a house salad and a side order of sweet potato chips.

I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in this little island of bicycle geekdom in the middle of a sea of rural Idaho farming. I just wish that there would have been more of a menu selection for me. Go to http://www.yourspinnersgrill.com/ for more information.

Outdoor Retailer: Waiting on the shuttle

2011-08-03T08:33:00.001-06:00

I'm sitting on the shuttle waiting for the ride up to Jordanelle for the Open Air Demo. Haven't had a chance to go up there before, so I'm excited.

As I was walking through the Salt Palace, it is hard to imagine that they are going to be ready for tomorrow; shipping crates were sitting where vendor booths should be, and I had to move out of the way for a forklift more than once. I'm sure that it's going to be a late night for quite a few people.

I'll post pictures on my twitter feed, www.twitter.com/bike_junkie, and will try to post while up there.

Tour of Utah - Team Rosters

2011-08-02T09:05:00.001-06:00

With the Tour of Utah only a week from starting, I guess I should post the team rosters. With the UCI 2.1 status this year, there are several pro-tour teams that haven't been to Utah before, and many of them have brought riders that have just finished riding in the Tour de France.

There's going to be some exciting racing with a field like this! It all starts Tuesday, August 9th at 2:00pm in Park City for the Prologue. If you are able to, I would highly recommend checking out at least one of the stages. There isn't another pro-level sport where you can get as close to the action as with cycling. Plus, it's free! What other sport can you say that about?

2011 Tour of Utah Team Rosters

Team Radioshack RSH

1 Leipheimer Levi USA
2 Bennet George NZL
3 Deignan Philip IRL
4 Rovny Ivan RUS
5 King Benjamin USA
6 McCartney Jason USA
7 Parker Dale AUS
8 Selander Bjorn USA

HTC-Highroad THR

11 Van Garderen Tejay USA
12 Fairly Caleb USA
13 Gretsch Patrick GER
14 Lewis Craig USA
15 Pate Danny USA
16 Roulston Hayden NZL
17 Norris Lachlan AUS
18 Velits Peter SVK

BMC Racing Team BMC

21 Bookwalter Brent USA
22 Barton Chris USA
23 Hincapie George USA
24 Louder Jeffry USA
25 Butler Chris USA
26 Beyer Chad USA

Team Garmin-Cervelo GRM

31 Danielson Thomas USA
32 Hesjedal Ryder CAN
33 Stetina Peter USA
34 Vandevelde Christian USA
35 Zabriskie David USA
36 Summerhill Danny USA

Liquigas-Cannondale LIQ

41 Cimolai Davide ITA
42 Duggan Timothy USA
43 King Edward USA
44 Longo Borghini Paolo ITA
45 Sagan Juraj SVK
46 Viviani Elia ITA

GEOX-TMC GEO

51 Wyss Marcel SUI
52 Gutierrez David ESP
53 Cheula Gianpaolo ITA
54 Torres Albert ESP
55 Thömel Tino GER
56 Gorato Maurizio ITA

Team Type 1- SANOFI TT1

61 Efimkin Alexander RUS
62 Efimkin Vladimir RUS
63 Bertogliati Rubens SUI
64 Kobzarenko Valeriy UKR
65 Megias Leal Javier ESP
66 Stewart Scott USA
67 Dugan William USA
68 Calabria Fabio AUS

Team Spidertech Powered By C10 CSM

71 Euser Lucas USA
72 De Lune Flavio MEX
73 McCarty Jonathan Patrick USA
74 Lambert-Lemay Simon CAN
75 Langlois Bruno CAN
76 Parisien Francois CAN
77 Randell Andrew CAN
78 Roth Ryan CAN

UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling UHC

81 Sutherland Rory AUS
82 Frattini Davide ITA
83 Jenkins Max USA
84 Jones Christopher USA
85 Keough Jacobe USA
86 Förster Robert GER
87 White Bradley USA
88 Zwizanski Scott USA

Realcyclist.com Cycling Team RCC

91 Mancebo Perez Francisco ESP
92 Rabou Thomas NED
93 Grajales Cesar Augusto COL
94 Burnett Ian USA
95 Berry Joshua USA
96 Hyde Evan USA
97 Clark Oscar USA
98 Nankervis Tommy AUS

Endura Racing EDR

101 Voss Paul GER
102 Camano Ortuzar Iker ESP
103 Bauer Jack NZL
104 Anderson John AUS
105 Mandri Rene EST
106 Partridge Robert GBR
107 Thwaites Scott GBR
108 Wetterhall Alexander SWE

Bissell Pro Cycling BPC

111 Baldwin Christopher USA
112 Pinkham Chase USA
113 Vennell Jeremy NZL
114 Thomson Jay Robert RSA
115 Mach Paul USA
116 Britton Rob CAN
117 Baker Andy USA
118 Bevin Patrick NZL

Jamis-Sutter Home JSH

121 Wren Tyler USA
122 Frey Nick USA
123 Romero Amaran Luis CUB
124 Zirbel Tom USA
125 Borrajo Alejandro Alberto ARG
126 Antogna Jose Fernando ARG
127 Driscoll James USA
128 Guptill Andy USA

Kelly Benefit Strategies-OptumHealth KBS

131 Anthony Jesse USA
132 Bajadali Andrew USA
133 Bowman Dan USA
134 Candelario Alexander USA
135 Cooper Marsh CAN
136 Creed Michael USA
137 Donald Jason USA
138 Mumford Reid USA

PureBlack Racing PBR

141 Chadwick Glen Alan NZL
142 Gudsell Timothy NZL
143 Van Uden Roman NZL
144 Northey Michael James NZL
145 Lyttle Scott NZL
146 Rodger Shem NZL
147 Barry Daniel NZL
148 Langlands Marc NZL

Gobernacion De Antioquia-Indeportes AntioquiaGOB

151 Sevilla Ribera Oscar ESP
152 Henao Montoya Sergio Luis COL
153 Acevedo Colle Javier Alexis COL
154 Ramirez Calderon Alejandro COL
155 Montiel Rafael COL
156 Ospina Hernandes Carlos Alberto COL
157 Alvarez Oscar COL
158 Montoya Giraldo Cristhian COL

Spudman Triathlon: 2011 Report

2011-08-01T09:05:00.001-06:00

My second attempt at the Spudman Triathlon is in the books.

I actually had an ingenious plan for this year’s Spudman – and for the most part followed this plan: Do okay on the swim, strong on the bike, and suck wind on the run.

Despite not training at all for the swim or the run this year, I actually improved – albeit slightly – in both this year. The bike leg, I was surprisingly slower. But, as I was riding, I knew that I was holding back a little – trying to pace myself, so I had something left in the tank for the run.

One very pleasant surprise came at the rider check-in/packet pick up on Friday night. They were having a drawing for some race gear that night. I arrived after they finished reading the winning numbers, so I went up to see if they called my number. It turns out that they called the number right before mine, but not mine – always my luck. As I was turning to walk away, the guy said that only 2 people had come up to claim prizes so far, so he let me be a winner! I choose a set of aero bars, and spent the next 30 minutes in the parking lot installing them on my bike.

So, how did I do? I wanted to finish in 2:30 or less this year, but I didn’t reach that goal. I did improve on last year’s time by 6 minutes, with an overall time of 2:51:52. My best improvement came in T-1. I came out of the water much stronger than last year, and was able to strip out of the wetsuit, throw on my shoes (decided to skip the socks – I ended up somewhat regretting that after when I rubbed a raw spot on the inside of my left foot during the run), helmet and hit the bike course in just over 2 minutes. Out of 1623 total finishers, I placed 1066. In my age group, I placed 101 out of 131.

Lottery registration opens in January for the 2012 Spudman, and you can be certain that I’ll be registering again. I know that 2:30 is not out of my reach. I just need to train next year…

The race results as they were posted at the finish line.

The official results from milliseconds.com

View of the swim course the night before

I'm a winner! (sort of...)

Beautiful sunrise over the Snake River the morning of the race. The water is calm now, but not for long...

I didn't know that this was the 25th Anniversary of the Spudman Triathlon. Since it was, they gave these cool finishers medals.

Post-race wardrobe: Zensah compression socks and crocs. Not highly fashonable, but very comfortable.

In case anyone is interested, here is the post from 2010, with my results from that race.

Caption This

2011-07-30T05:25:00.001-06:00

Outdoor Retailer: Park N Pedal

2011-07-29T05:14:00.003-06:00

More bike-related goodness from Outdoor Retailer.

For the past four years, Outdoor Retailer has be offered free bike valet and rentals to all attendees. Presented by Osprey and Park N Pedal.

The full valet service, operated by the Salt Lake City Bicycle Collective, provides a safe and secure location for local bike commuters to leave their bikes while they attend the show.

photo courtesy Outdoor Retailer

For those who want to get away from the Salt Palace for lunch, or want to take a leisurely ride and check out the sights of Salt Lake City, Electra bicycles will have a fleet of cruisers available.

I took advantage of the cruiser rental last year to meet a couple of friends for lunch at a downtown restaurant several blocks away. It was a lot of fun riding down the streets on a big cruiser bike, taking it easy. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance to do that again this year.

yes, I know. No helmet.

Events at OR Bike Share include daily raffles from Osprey Packs and a cruiser ride sponsored by Green Guru at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5.

Outdoor Retailer: It's Coming...

2011-07-28T05:49:00.002-06:00

Outdoor Retailer is just around the corner. The 2011 Summer Market edition starts on Wednesday, August 3rd with the open-air demo at Jordanelle Reservoir. This year, I am actually going to attend the open-air demo. I wasn’t sure that there would be anything for a bike geek like me to find or post about up there, then I looked at the website and found this:

Paddle Pedal Challenge, presented by H2O Overdrive and Outdoor Retailer

Between 9AM - 3PM: A time trial event, the first ever Paddle Pedal Challenge, where attendees will complete a short standup paddleboard course, followed by a 2.5-mile bike leg on a mix of pavement and dirt trails. Points will be awarded based on finishing times and can be redeemed for prizes.

I have never been on a standup paddleboard, but this sounds way too cool to pass up.

More to come about Outdoor Retailer…

Bike Stamps

2011-07-27T10:29:00.000-06:00

For 2012, the USPS is releasing a 4 stamp set depicting bicycles.

The stamps are set to be released sometime next year.

This isn't the first time the postal service has recognized bicycling in stamp form, but I believe that it is the first time that they have shown different facets of cycling, from a kid with training wheels, to a fully-loaded commuter(cyclo-tourist?), to racing (triathlete?) and BMX.

With the issuance of these stamps, the U.S. Postal Service celebrates bicycling, one of the most popular outdoor activities in the country. Each of the four colorful se-tenant stamps features a different kind of bike and rider: a young child just learning to ride with training wheels, a commuter pedaling to work, a road racer intent on the finish line, and an airborne BMX rider.

Recent surveys indicate that Americans enjoy approximately 2.5 billion bike rides a year. Bicycling organizations around the country report increased participation in local biking activities, and nearly half of all Americans say they would like more bicycling resources, such as trails and bike lanes, in their communities.

Bicycling is a low-impact aerobic activity that just about everyone — from young children to retirees — can enjoy. The health benefits are impressive: Riding a bike lowers the risk of obesity and heart disease, while improving muscle tone and strength. Bicycling can also lower stress. Whether riding along a lakeside path or through the bike lanes of a bustling city, bicycling is therapeutic and just plain fun.

Art director Phil Jordan designed the stamps using illustrations by John Mattos.

you can see more about the stamps at Beyond the Perf.

Monday Grab Bag

2011-07-25T09:36:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday!

Over the weekend, the Tour de France ended, with Cadel Evans on top of the GC rankings – the first Australian to win the Tour de France. Congrats to Cadel for a great win to what was a surprising and enjoyable race filled with crashes, upsets, no clear favorites, new heroes (Johnny Hoogerland, Thomas Voeckler) and (hopefully) no doping.

Only problem is, what am I supposed to do at work until the Vuelta starts on August 20th?

Here in Utah, Pioneer Day was yesterday. Pioneer Day, (aka, another reason to set off illegal fireworks) culminates in the Days of ’47 parade in downtown SLC, which is going on today this year. Unfortunately, my office sits right off the parade route. What that means is that getting into and out of my building is next to impossible until sometime well after noon – unless you arrive by bicycle...

The view from my building.

Since my bus doesn’t run on Pioneer day (observed or actual), I’ll usually drive into my mom’s house, and ride from there, a nice leasurely 12 mile trip. No fuss, no problems accessing my building.

Spudman is only 6 days away!

I feel good about the bike leg of the race - I actually installed some aero bars on the Fuji, and the course is pancake flat (only 164 ft of elevation gain). Should be nice and fast!

The running and swimming legs I don't feel so confident about. I've only been to the pool to swim laps a handful of times since last year, but I've been feeling pretty good the last couple of times I went.

Running on the other hand.... I developed plantar fasciitis in my right foot sometime last year, and haven't been running hardly at all. I do have some 3M thinsulate insoles in my shoes that help cushion my foot. (I actually was given these by 3M for review at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, but haven't had a chance to provide a review yet) I am not sure if I'll be able to beat my mediocre time from last year, but I know that I will be able to finish.

Hope everyone has a great week!

Food Friday: Banana Ice Cream (vegan)

2011-07-22T05:15:00.003-06:00

July is National Ice Cream Month. And, since I talked about it on Monday, I guess I’ll post a recipe for banana ice cream (vegan, of course).

It’s a painfully simple recipe, with only a few ingredients. I’ve made it twice now, with very good results both times. My decidedly non-vegan brother-in-law really enjoyed it, and suggested that I work on a Bananas Foster variation, using this recipe as a base. We’ll have to see…

Banana Ice Cream (vegan)

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas (the riper, the bananas are, the better the flavor of the ice cream)
2 cups non-dairy milk (almond milk is my preferred choice)
½ cup sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
pinch salt

Directions:

Add all ingredients to a blender, and puree until smooth.
Freeze mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer's directions.

That’s it! Like I said, very easy and super simple.

Nothing better after a ride on a hot day than cooling off with a nice bowl of ice cream. Enjoy!

A Change in Plans

2011-07-21T06:30:00.001-06:00

I know that on Monday I posted my intent on riding (not racing, my whole goal would be to just finish) the Epic 200 in August. Well, plans have changed…

I am not wussing out. I fully intended to have a go at it. If I made it, great! If I made it 120 miles, I could live with that. I was going into this with zero expectations as to my performance.

What is influencing my decision is money.

The registration fee for the Epic 200 is $95, going up to $105 next week. I am not complaining about the cost – I understand fully that the registration fees go to cover the cost of the t-shirts, food, permits, insurance costs and other assorted fees that the event promoter has to pay in order to put on a ride. If they are very lucky, they may actually break even.

After discussing this with the wife, we just can’t justify the cost right now.

Riding your bike is relatively inexpensive – assuming you already have a bike. Riding your bike in an organized ride or race is not. Aside from the entry/registration fees, if the ride is out of town, you have to include gas, lodging and eating out to your monetary output.

A 200 mile ride is still on my bucket list. It will just have to wait till next year – and I plan on riding this next year. When I sit down to plan out 2012, the Epic 200 will be part of that plan, and I will register early – when we can still afford it.

My "Encounter" with a Car this Morning

2011-07-20T09:34:00.000-06:00

Today I had an “encounter” with a car on my commute to work.

I’ve mentioned my commute before, but just to summarize: Bike to bus. Bus to downtown. Bike to office. The last leg is only about 4 blocks long, on wide, multi-lane streets, with only one right-hand turn. The street I turn on to (200 S, for those of you who are familiar with Salt Lake City), has a bike lane, and for a couple of blocks, has the outside lane marked with a green sharrow, All of this means – from my perspective – that there should be no reason for anyone to feel that I am “in their way”.

Today, the ride from the bus stop started off as normal, I rode up State St., signaled my turn (this is important, and comes into play later), and turned onto 200 S. less than half a block down 200 S., a car all of a sudden comes up past me on my left side, and makes a right turn into a parking garage. Right in front of me! I grab the brakes, and am able to narrowly avoid running into the side of her car. As I swerve around behind her, I give the trunk/rear quarter panel of her car a thump with my fist.

Yes, I probably shouldn’t have done that, but at that time, my heart rate was through the roof, and the adrenaline was pumping. I didn’t do it to damage her car. At the time, I was thinking I just wanted to let her know how close she came to hitting me.

As I went past, she started cursing at me. I should have let it go, but like I said, the heart rate was racing, and I was in confrontation mode. I spun around on the sidewalk to have “words” with her. She parked and got out of her car. She was still yelling at me, telling me that if I am going to ride on the roads, I should follow the “rules”, and that I should have been over on the green sharrow lane, not further to the right. I pointed out to her that she came around me and cut me off. I also pointed out to her that her actions could have killed me. At this time, a guy – he may have been in the booth at the parking garage, or just on the sidewalk – joined in, on her side no less, saying that he saw the whole thing and I was at fault! At this point, I saw that this wasn’t going to get better, but had the possibility of getting much worse, so I left.

First off, aside from running the occasional stop sign (sign, not light, and only when I am absolutely certain that nothing is coming), I follow the rules of the road. I waited in the right hand lane on State St, with traffic for the light so I could make my right turn. I signaled my turn, and stayed to the right of the lane, and was heading straight for the bike lane which started up just down the street from where this occurred. I wasn’t weaving in and out of the lane, I was doing exactly what I would have done if I was in a car. I couldn’t have been following the rules any more at that time

She was right on one thing, I wasn’t in the sharrow lane, because I just made a right turn, into the wide section of the lane that is to be used for vehicles turning right. At the point where I was, the sharrow lane was about 10 feet to my left, and it also ended right where she cut me off, as you can see in the Google Maps satellite image that I drew on below.

Blue line is me, red line is her, green line is the sharrow lane painted on the road.

street view of the parking garage.

What it all comes down to, is that people in cars either 1) don’t see cyclists, or 2) don’t care about cyclists and think that we are in their way. What is your opinion? Obviously the above is my side of the story. Was I in the wrong? Was she? I will admit that I shouldn’t have touched her car, and I should have just kept on riding instead of confronting her. I could of handled the situation differently.
So, how is your morning so far?

Delivery by Bike

2011-07-19T05:27:00.006-06:00

I love it when I see bicycles replacing cars and trucks for everyday tasks. So, when I saw this guy riding down the street, I had to get a picture.

Local brewery, Desert Edge delivering kegs by bicycle (locally made by Madsen cycles, no less), to the Bar X (co-owned by Modern Family star, Ty Burrell - who lives part-time in Salt Lake City).

I don't drink, but I think that is just cool!

200 miles in one day?

2011-07-18T10:27:00.000-06:00

100 miles is the longest distance that I have ridden in one day. There are longer rides that I have considered doing, but whenever anyone asks me about them, I always answer “I want to do it, but I’m not ready yet”. A safe answer, that doesn’t really answer anything.

LOTOJA, is the race that is brought up most often in this area. A 206 mile race from Logan, UT to Jackson, WY that for the past 29 years has been the standard that some cyclists measure themselves by. Past participants of this race are easy to spot in their cars by the white stickers that adorn their rear windows.

Truth is, any distance over 100 miles intimidates and scares me. I know I’m not fast, and thought of spending 12+ hours on the bike fills me with dread.

That being said, I may be considering a 200 mile race in the very near future…

Saturday Morning, Greg and I decided to go down to the local shop – Epic Biking - to ride in their weekly shop ride. About 10 of us rolled out from the shop at 7:30 AM, and almost immediately, the group split into the fast riders, and the rest of us. Due to a couple of misunderstandings - the fast group thought that we all knew the route they were taking, and a directional mistake in the slow group – we ended up going in the completely opposite direction from the fast group. It wasn’t a bad thing, as we ended up going out to an area that I’ve never ridden – let alone driven – through. A nice 57 mile ride was had.

A side note, I decided that I want a Garmin GPS for the bike. I would have liked to map the route that we took, and I have the ability to do so on my phone, but I rarely do so, because I either forget to start the app, or I don’t want to because of the potential of draining the battery on longer rides.

Back at the shop after the ride, several of us were discussing upcoming rides and races. Someone brought up the Epic 200, which is coming up at the end of August. My reaction was that I am not even close to being able to handle 200 miles in one day.

Sunday night, I had a craving for some homemade ice cream (vegan, of course. I may post the recipe on Friday). Greg and Stephanie stopped by for some ice cream (as payment for giving me some vanilla extract, since we were out), and he brought up the Epic 200. We have a couple of centuries under our belts this year, and Greg is thinking that 200 miles is not outside the realm of possibility.

It still scares me, but having someone besides the voices inside my head telling me that I can do it (the voices tend to be very negative), almost makes it seem possible.

So, I may be riding in the Epic 200 this year. There is still the cost of it, but considering that I won’t have to get 2 hotel rooms – as with LOTOJA – since the start/finish line is 10 miles from my house, it is considerably cheaper.

More to follow?

Book Review: Zombie Survival Guide

2011-07-16T08:45:00.021-06:00

The Zombie Survival Guide is a guidebook to help you survive a potential zombie outbreak. It provides proven suggestions on which weapons, vehicles, and defensible locations work best against the hordes of undead. It also has a chronological history of zombie attacks throughout history.

Obviously it is fiction, but the author has treated the subject as if it was an actual threat, and all of the suggestions are based on real-world scenarios, and reactions to them. The zombie threat is compared to a virus, rather than an attacking army in that there is no thought or tactics to the way they advance – food is sensed. Move toward food. Do not stop until food is consumed.

Considerable research was done to make the scenarios and how to prepare and react to them as realistic as possible, Everything from weapon selection to which type of buildings and terrain are the most easily defend are explained in great detail.

Interestingly enough, on the back cover of the book, above the ISBN number, it lists this book as belonging in the “humor” category. The book, while fiction, definitely is not tongue-in-cheek.

By this time, you are probably wondering why I choose this book to review on this blog. I’ll answer that questions with a couple of excerpts from the book. First off, on the back cover:

Top 10 Lessons for Surviving a Zombie Attack

Organize before they rise!
They feel no fear, why should you?
Use your head: cut off theirs.
Blades don’t need reloading
Ideal protection = tight clothes, short hair.
Get up the staircase, then destroy it.
Get out of the car, get onto the bike.
Keep moving, keep low, keep quiet, keep alert!
No place is safe, only safer.
The zombie may be gone, but the threat lives on.

Then, on pg. 108-109:

The Bicycle

In a class by itself, this vehicle offers the best of both worlds. The common bicycle is fast, quiet, muscle-powered, and easy to maintain. Add to this the additional advantage that it is the only vehicle you can pick up and carry if the terrain gets too rough. People using bicycles to escape from infested areas have almost always fared better than those on foot. For optimum performance, use a mountain bike, as opposed to the racing or recreational model…

There you go, in a world where access to fuel is restricted, and where stealth and accessibility is prized, the bike reigns supreme.

Photo of the Day

2011-07-15T07:51:00.000-06:00

Seen in the window of Este Pizza in Downtown SLC.

How not to Train for a Triathlon

2011-07-14T12:58:00.003-06:00

Those who are regular visitors to this blog may remember me saying several months ago that I was racing in the Spudman Triathlon again this year. Well, that is still the case.

What also hasn’t changed since that announcement is my preparations for this year’s race. Back then, I hadn’t ran for several months due to a tear in my right ankle, and the only swimming I had done was taking my kids to the pool – this was in part to my work schedule changing, preventing me from going in to the gym early in the morning before work. I am not happy to report that I still haven’t swam any more than a couple of laps, and the only running I have done has been on a hotel treadmill.

Cycling is the only part of the triathlon that I have had any regular, continuing exposure to, with my multi-modal commuting to work, regular charity and group rides, and having a friend who wants to go riding at almost any and all opportunity.

So with a little more than 2 weeks to go, I finally renewed my membership to the local pool/gym, and will spend several evenings there relearning my form and working on my stroke. I will also be getting out on the trails around town and try to get some miles under the sneakers.

I don’t doubt my ability to finish an Olympic-distance triathlon such as the Spudman, but I do doubt my chances of improving on last year’s time – which wasn’t stellar by any means.

Definitely not the way to train for a triathlon.

Be Back Soon

2011-07-13T15:24:00.000-06:00

Taking the day off to celebrate my wife's 39 years on this planet.

peace out!

My Opinion on Michael Smith/ESPN

2011-07-12T14:27:00.002-06:00

You may, or may not be aware, but the first week of the Tour de France has been filled with several crashes and accidents. One of the more shocking crashes involved a French TV car that decided that it needed to pass the breakaway group on Stage 9. The car – to avoid hitting a tree on the side of the road as it was passing the group – swerved into Juan Antonio Flecha, sending him to the pavement. Johnny Hoogerland, unable to avoid hitting Flecha, struck his bike, which catapulted him into a barbed wire fence on the side of the road. A senseless, and completely avoidable accident.

Why I bring this up, is that some people find that funny. And more disturbing is when those people have a voice that is listened to.

Michael Smith a sports reporter and writer for ESPN. Has tweeted to his 95,000 followers that he thought the accident was funny.*

Of course, his unrepentant attitude (he has since issued an “apology”, but to call it even half-assed is a huge stretch) has angered and enraged cyclists everywhere. Gary Fisher – the father of the mountain bike has even threatened to punch him in the face.

The problem is, we’re helping him by re-tweeting, forwarding, and passing along what he said.

Every time someone goes to ESPN’s website to comment – whether in support or against Smith, it’s traffic for ESPN. It doesn’t matter if it’s good or bad publicity, it is driving traffic to them, and traffic = $$$.

People are calling for the ESPN big-wigs to suspend or fire Smith. Unfortunately, I don’t think that will happen, no matter how many of us call for it. Like I said above, his comments are driving massive amounts of traffic to their site, and it wouldn’t surprise me in the least if the ESPN big-wigs don’t support him fully in his comments. If they didn’t, we would have had more than his half-assed apology that he tweeted.

The other thing is that “we are few, they are many”. He has 95.000 followers. I’ll go out on a limb and guess that the majority of them aren’t cyclists, and I’ll go farther out on that limb and say that the majority are probably anti-cycling. He, his followers, and his employers aren’t going to care what a relative handful of cyclists have to say.

He is a D-bag, and he is following the shock-jock handbook step by step. He is even going as far as openly "thanking" individuals in his twitter feed for their tweets against him. This is nothing but a game for this sick bastard.

His ongoing remarks, and ESPN's continuing lack of action say exactly how they feel about cycling and cyclists.

*I refuse to post any links to Smith, ESPN, or any part of this story.

Bear Lake Monster Century

2011-07-12T06:26:00.001-06:00

This past weekend was the inaugural running of the Bear Lake Monster Century up in Montpelier, ID.

I've lived in Utah almost all of my life, but I've only been past Bear Lake a couple of times, and never spent any time up there, so I was excited to ride somewhere I've never been before.

Let me say that the ride was perfect! The weather couldn't have been better, and the scenery was beautiful! The climb up to Minnetonka Cave was challenging - but not overly so. And, we had some interesting "street furniture (of the mobile, leather upholstered, mooing variety)" to deal with on the ride up and back down from the cave.

If I had any complaints about the ride - nothing against the organizers, they did a great job - it would be the road surfacing that the state of Idaho seems to like to put on every street surface. The chip-seal surfacing that saps your momentum every time you stop pedaling, resists every pedal stroke, and vibrates up through your tires completely drained my energy on the east side of the lake through the rollers.

After the ride (and requisite nap), we went to the little Mexican restaurant next to the hotel for dinner with some friends. Remember how I said the weather was perfect? Well, when we came out of the restaurant, it was pouring rain! Someone likes the event organizers up there!

Not too many pictures were taken, but enjoy what there are. There was also an event photographer at a couple of locations on the ride to capture our suffering and enjoyment of the ride. The best (subjective terminology, considering the subject) pictures of me are here, and here.

Route map.

It's July, the Tour de France is on, and I'm riding in Paris!!! (well, Paris, Idaho...)

I know I posted a pic of the "mountain cows" over the weekend, but they were so much fun!

Greg and me at the top of the Minnetonka cave climb.

riding towards North Beach

on the east side of Bear lake.

There was an old woman who lived in a shoe...

...and we're done. 100 miles

What would you expect to get at the finish of a ride called the "Monster"?

back to the hotel, and... crash!

next morning. Vive le Tour!

You can't go to Bear Lake without having a raspberry shake (at least that is what the wife was telling me). No non-dairy versions unfortunately, so none for me. This was only one of 2 places open on Sunday, hence the line.

Maybe I'll rent one of these to ride in next year's Bear Lake Monster...

We came home to a freak downpour that completely overwhelmed the storm drains. Several houses were flooded in our neighborhood. We fortunately didn't have too much water in our basement, Greg didn't fare as well.

This ride is definitely among my favorite rides now. I'll be back next year!

T-Shirt of the Day

2011-07-11T14:16:00.000-06:00

In honor of Jens Voigt joining Twitter today twitter.com/thejensie, I thought this shirt from Gage + Desoto would be a good choice.

Photo of the Day

2011-07-09T22:20:00.002-06:00

We encountered some "leather upholstered" street furniture on the climb up to Minnetonka cave on the Bear Lake Monster Century today.

Geography Fail

2011-07-08T09:25:00.002-06:00

I don’t know if I’m just lucky, or if the motorists in my area are used to cyclists on the road, but it is very rare for me to have someone yell something at me from their car as they pass.

Last night was the exception.

Greg and I are riding in the Bear Lake Monster Century on Saturday, and he wanted to get in some training miles before we head up to Montpelier, Idaho tonight. So, we went out last night for a quick 2 hour ride. As we were coming back down the hill, a teenage girl leaned out of the passenger window of a passing car and yelled at Greg and me “The Tour de France is that way”, as she pointed north.

Um, France is east of the United States. I hope you didn’t get a good grade in Geography.

View Larger Map

Artwork from my 8-Year-Old

2011-07-07T04:51:00.002-06:00

I went up to Logan for the Bike MS ride by myself. When I came back home to the family on Sunday, my 8-year-old, Jack, gave me this picture. I love the detail he put into the bike, like the teeth on the chainrings, and the pedals. I also love that I'm wearing a helmet!

Photo: Arts & Crafts

2011-07-06T10:51:00.002-06:00

Sunday was arts & crafts day at the Hill household. We pulled out a bucket of "melty beads" (I don't know what they're actually called, that's what the kids call them) and had some fun.

Here's my contribution.