STONE ARCH

This ride is so cool. I have to admit - riding in the countryside is mucho bettero - hows my bilingual skills? This was the first time for me driving to stone arch and riding from there. Much easier. So its what....35-36 miles in the city? Big hills - fast breaks....especially when Patrick is drafting a Volvo at 39 mph....Don't worry Pat - you really are that fast anyway - in fact I thought I saw the Volvo drafting behind your rainbow jersey. I was happy with how I rode - I was freaked out cuz with names like Red Lantern, Painman, Hailstone....how does one compete with excellence? I was awarded a few names yesterday - JayT latched onto Fluffy, Cleary looking into his crystal ball and came up with Pinto....Skibby insisted on Zuko - for a pic I had with a curly cue hair style. I was happy - after a blistering ride on Tuesday, I had no idea how wed was going to turn out - felt good - feeling better every ride.

I must say it was nice to meet so many Loon state riders that I have never seen before. 12 or 15????? If I met you, trust me, I forgot your name about 10 sec after we met. I played around with the micro wave too much as a kid - messing things up.... My computer on the bike showed just over 20mph - give or take - average and for the amount of hills on that ride - i think that is good. Thanks for the great ride guys -- even though most of you will never read this blog..lol.

Holy.....

There are times when a ride takes your breath away....and then it really hurts and you feel like you are going to pop. Then...there are times when you are done and you reflect back on the ride...and then it takes your breath away. Tonight was a bit of both but more the latter. Low winds, sun in the face, large group, everyone strong, 50 some miles, puffy clouds in the sky...need I say more? It was the best example of a group ride that I have seen - keeping everyone together the entire ride. Slow? Not at all! We had in 50 plus miles strong interval training, hill workouts, pace lines, bridging the gaps and with most of the group hanging in there even at 30 mph...IMPRESSIVE! I am stunned by the level of fitness everyone is at. Everyone seems to have some serious goals ahead...well, when you have TSH you cant help but elevate your level of fitness. These guys are really good...After leaving Curvey Martin in the dust Bernie and Neil still had the power to take super preem - I wasn't up there with them but I am sure they had smiles on there face - heck - I bet they were even playing rock, paper, scissors while we were ready to throw up. Yeah, top 10 rides for me - it was perfect and I will count it a blessing to have a group like that to ride with again.


andy

Note to Self...

Take your chain tool on your ride with you. I should have today - I got a really nice 5 mile walk in the park whilst pushing my bike....in the rain...in cycling shoes...etc... Also - make sure to zip up the under the seat pack...that is a whole different story and amazingly found everything. okay - here's the story.

I took off through the horse trails on the mt bike in the rain. really messy. Chain breaks during a climb. start walking, my phone battery dead, no chain tool...no one else on the trails. Of course, its raining. Make it home and my feet are sore. Fix chain and head out again....not zipping up my saddle pack. By the time i hit the top of super preeme and then into that trail...I look down to see my tube fall out of the pack. I start walking back up the trail. tire iron here and there, tube, another 100 feet the hex wrenches, at the shoulder of the road a CO2 for inflation but no nozzle to inject the air. I was mad at myself. So, I ride the 20 miles and when I get back home there is the Genuine Innovations thingy right at the end of my driveway - nothing lost. Funny.

So note to self again - charge battery in cell phone prior to ride. take a chain tool. zip up bag. oh, almost forgot - have FUN. The mud was DEEP and thick today and well worth the ride.

red zone

last night was an event for me - red zone the entire ride. yes, it hurt and yes I wanted to go home and cry to mama but then the ever soothing voice of reason - NEIL - said no way - lets ride together. It is good to have days like this when you think it is all over but you keep rolling. I admire this group of men and women - the best around. Bar none. I guess that sometimes you need to be reminded that preparation is an important thing and when you are not prepared - learn to make it work anyway. Thanks Jay and Neil - you have a way of turning lemons into lemonade.

MEMORIAL DAY SOLO RIDE -

Having fun with the camera and the video option...
Have a great Memorial Day and remember our soldiers and citizens overseas not only today but every day. Did 29 miles in the park looking for those who "said" they were riding in the park...no chance...all solo and that's just fine - early morning ride and I got a great pic of a deer. That deer was only 15 feet away and didnt mind a bit - it was closer than the picture really shows. Amazing!




Memorial day ride - solo - perfect day!

Cruzin' Cali Style

My next purchase - for sure. have you ever tried to steer one of these things? very strange.

In the Morning...

I have been riding my bike to work alot lately and if you have not done it - you really should. First of all - you have to get a good nights sleep to do this so no late night cyber surfing. Gettin' up super early, the cool breeze blowing through the house, the warm cup of coffee, light meal and the wonderful workout on the way to work. The best feeling is the look in people's eyes when they look at you at a stop sign or passing by ... you can almost hear "awww I wish I could do that..."

Well you can. Granted, I am in a position at work that I dont have to be around the client in person but many have facilities at work so you can clean up prior to the day. Just think...riding to work and adding an automatic 30+ miles every day thus saving some $30+ dollars a week in gas. Green is good and if it makes you stronger, more fit, alert for the day...its all to your bennefit.

I have found that if I ride to work - my workout is done if I choose...then my family isnt wondering if I live at home or not. you know the feeling. Take today - 4 deer, 2 wild turkey's, 1 eagle, 3 dead Canadian geese, a whole school of fish flopping on the coon rapids dam ( lots of fishermen this morning ), and one elderly couple holding hands watching the sun come up. How COOL IS THAT!!!! Beats staring at the lic plate of the guy in front of you. Today it was about the ride - the experience - the reasons why I love biking...you get to take it all in... the only thing i missed today was a bad start to the day...

see ya on the road!

zuko

andy

Gears? What gears? I only have one

What an interesting ride and thank you Jay for the inspiration. Don't get me wrong, it was difficult with the one gear option on theThursday night ride. 45 plus miles - perfect weather and tons of wind. What gear is best, better yet...are my legs ready? How about my mind - that's a better question. The psychology of single speed is complex in that you are always aware of 200 yards up the road...simple in that you know you have to make it work no matter what. Sprint up or power up each hill to keep the momentum up...enjoy coasting and find that happy medium of speed vs. uber max heart rate. There were times when I was watching the shadow of my legs and all I thought of was a sewing machine - I had absolutely no more pedal - you all know the feeling - descending down some massive hill in your biggest gear and you cant eek out even a touch more power. Riding like that everyday...will either kill you or cement your future strength.

Ill admit - it is fun to blast away with the lead group when I can but knowing that the workout was that intense - no matter where you ride...that my friends was priceless. Yes I love the Bianchi I just bought but that 1989 Cannondale - the first bike I bought - still hums along with the same memories as it did back then. I will never give up this beauty.

So, if you plan to SS anytime soon, give it a whirl or... just let the few of us do it - we enjoy knowing that each ride is about 30% "or more" a harder work out on the same miles...

See you all on the road -

Is there a Loon rider that does this?

Why you do what you do...

I am sitting here listening to Yanni - you know, the familiar music of when alot of us got hooked on cycling. Early 90's, Yanni, LeMond, Bugno, Alcala ( that's for you Jorge) - the list continues. For me, it was a glimpse into the competitive world of something so fascinating... watching Greg and his comeback from near death. Watching cyclists fly over the top of towering mountains when I struggled over Grandad's Bluff - wondering how they did what they did. I still wonder actually. This song from Yanni was my favorite - I still remember having it on my walkman with it tucked into the back of my make-shift cycling shorts sprinting down west ave in LaCrosse - imagining taking the lead in the final stage...I always won by 8 sec.

That desire, passion, whatever you want to call it was a way out, a way to be the best, a way to push myself in something. It was unique. It was painful and I loved it! Once in college it was a chance to skip class to ride and ride alot. I remember heading out early with my roomie Jay for endless rides, getting chased down by the same dang dog on Cty Road C - he got me once. Between citizen races, local mt bike races and racing jay down waterstreet (looser bought wings and beer that night) - I remember the ride - the open road so to speak and the gift I was given to enjoy this wonderful sport.

Now - I see that gift giving back. Now, I see four guys giving their love and devotion to make a difference...not for their own glory but for kids who need help. How remarkable - touching and impressive. I happen to see a blog from an old friend with a picture of Steve Prefontaine on it...it reminded me of a quote that I love so much and was glad to be reminded of it - thanks Nomadgirl...

"To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice the gift."

To the RAAM guys - your motives are pure and your friendship is priceless. Your obstacles are many and the pain will be endless but I know you - it will be met with a smile knowing that you will not allow this challenge, this gift to be sacrificed. Dont worry, you have given your best already - you have decided to give to those you do not know for reasons you may never understand - and you ask nothing in return.

I am proud to know you, glad to ride with you and honored to be your friend. Camp Odayin couldn't have a better team of riders and for certain, they could have better people out there than you. My hats off to you.

till the next ride....


andy

WHAT A RIDE!!!!

How many people did we have???? Something like 10? We had it ALL and then some. Erik - good to see you dude - you have been riding alot havent you? We saw the unmatched glory of Neils Colnago tonight...Sweet ride man - very cool. I will pit that over the Merckx with Camp for this reason....origonal old school componants...Evans bike is rather impressive though but seeing that I have never met Evan my vote is with you.

The ride was flawless - Hot, 50 some miles, great route, even better people and where was Bernie? After Otsego he and a few others launched for super preem...holy crap. I was rather spent from a full day of riding on Wed and I toiled with riding the group ride tonight as I was not ready but I am sure glad I did. I have tan lines again...sorry, status lines as Bernard put it...marks of valor - bragging points.

It seems to me that everyone is a few notches up from last year - I mean, the ride was quick and that is great to see. From what I have heard, many have some serious racing/riding goals this year and with that comes a new attitude early on. Take for example the RAAM guys - they are ready. I have Fat Tire to look forward to and if all I did was to prep for that - I would be happy. Many new bikes, new shoes, new gear, more ride time etc...

I am exceptionally glad to be given the chance to ride - just ride. This summer should be a blast!

Keep your families, friends, loved ones and our troops in your prayers. They deserve our best.


ac

I GOT MY SHOES!!!!!!

DOMINATOR 5 Mesh...
and a fancy pair of socks to match the ensemble...these shoes are so freaking comfortable and they fit very tight - hitin' the trails tonight. should have brought the road bike - I will have to play with cleat position a bit. Thanks Jay for the advice, Larry for making it happen, Stew for playing with my mind and Ed for keeping me focused on goals.

I know they are just shoes....but they are nice shoes.

Going Endo

Thats right...right over the bars. Gotta love it - especially when you can still function normal activities after the wipe out. Took off in the rain yesterday after work on the SS Mt Bike and headed to Elm Creek. I figured that the equestrian folks wouldnt be on the trails so I hit the entire loop off road. The best part is on the western trail heading south - near the wood bridge that turns...you come down that hill pretty fast and there are a series of puddles - one of which is mightly thick with slimmy, stinky mud...and that is where my bike stopped and I kept going. No harm, no foul but that weightless feeling is unmatched...until you smack the ground. Good thing for sumersaults and helmets...Dont worry, the bike is okay.

There are some really nice and destructive short climbs when you ride that off-road trail - not to mention there really isnt a trail to ride on - if you have loose fillings - get ready to have them replaced.

I would highly suggest riding in the rain out there - no one is out there and you are covered for the most part...just you and the worms...and the mud...and the sore shoulder. Top it off with a pit stop at TH for some conversation and to clean off the water bottle - set to role again.

Just thought to share - have a great day!

Family Night at the Track...

Okay - I was impressed. Having never been on a velodrome before - this was scary...then a bit more scary then all of a sudden - it was really cool. I can see why there is an addiction to the track. I am sure racing is cool on it but just riding is worth the trip. Get some hints or you just might be picking pencil sized splinters out of your maximus rear - endous. Tina and the kids came out and took some pics but not all turned out. Here are a few to share from Loon Night at the drome. Thanks skibby for opening the door to this really neat event. I look forward to more.




Here Skib is puttin on the granny gear
cuz he is so fast....he gears down to not
put us all to shame... ( skibby - you owe
me $5 for the ego boost - not that it
needs any more - Merry Christmas.)















Here I am starting off - wondering how
in the heck you stay up on that banked wall
Later I found out it is really fun up
there - and super easy too.












I hope that you all got out on Sat - great day to ride.

have a great week - see ya on the road.


ac

perfect day - i wanna be like Jay

Okay, so I didnt ride for 24 + hours like the RAAM guys but did log some good miles on Sunday. Took the Blue Thunder Super Sport out for a big ride. I had to tinker with the right ratio and landed on a ratio that had me at 20 mph with a 104 cadence. I didnt count the cogs so not sure exactly the ratio. I ended up logging 39 miles and beat Curvey Martin by 1 mph. Tis the season for enjoying the weather while riding - hope to start with major miles right away.

It is nice that I am alot further along in march/april than i was at this time last year - what a difference a year makes. Went for a ride Sat morning with the group and had to peel off after an hour and it was great to see some new riders - the guy on the Sage green Eros...not sure of his name....I remember him when he bought the bike - sorry if you are reading and I forgot.

I plan to ride the SS alot this year - gotta get used to no options in gearing - plus the workout is great. just another note- the SIDI DOMINATOR 5 MESH will be in this week - that should gain a few status points and i hear they actually make you faster....maybe a myth but hey, look at Jay...he's a rocket and yes he wears Dominators...I wanna be like Jay.

okay, done with the recap.

ac

A new single speed is born

Pictures are to follow but for now - I thought to announce the arrival of Blue Thunder SS. That's right...the Cannondale of old has joined the ranks of the SS. Vanquishing it of its gears and adding a tensioner from TH, new chain, super fast 'uber speed' pully and an Ultegra 42 front...I am ready to rumble...provided the chain doesn't skip. Took it out for the inaugural run and no skip at all...not even up super preem. My new commuter is born and the training continues for Fat Tire----

i hope you guys in Whalen enjoyed the spring rain. Kudos to all who went - it takes a special person to put the effort into riding in this weather. The Sultans of Slop...the saga continues.


ac














check out that Super Sport Pulley... amazingly fast















Ultegra 42 front... 6 speed rear freewheel...
42 with a six pack...okay, that was dumb.
















it just gets better with age.


see ya on the road.

ATS - Logo

I painted this logo for work - posting here so i dont have to send it all over corp email. done in acrylic paints. our office is Project Big Mosquito - PBM. I should do things like this for a living - not recruiting...lol.

Fat Tire - here I come...

Well the check has cleared...now the preparation begins. It is a great thing to have goals and like Jay says...this is the race he preps for all year. The benchmark. I will adopt this thought for myself. So, here is my goal...beat three hours. That may change and I may shorten that goal a bit - depends on how good I feel in Sept. I will make the trip to LaCrosse at least twice a month for extensive hills only. When i cant travel to Lax - Stillwater is the ride. Hills and more hills - this should help. After my last stint in Lax riding 120+ in two days on hills only - i already see the benefit. Catching up to those RAAM guys is in sight - but it is a ways off. I am ready for the pilgrimage to FatTire 2007.

ac

Serious Innovation for Serious bikers

Okay - this was halarious. I really could not stop laughing when I saw this. My friend Pete Taylor - owner of Bluedog Cycle - went out with some cycling/tech buddies of his down south in Arakansas. His photos and stories were amazing. Once again - proving the point that it doesnt get better than biking with friends...we knew that already. Between the insane single track, monster drop offs and beautiful countryside....well, here it is. Innovation hard at work. Where there is a will, there is a way. Nice use of tubes and duct tape - my hats off to you.





























Okay - dont try this at home

This is for my buds at work in Cali ... may you fall asleep sunbathing in the nude

Okay Cali boys and Girls....and yes, you too out in DC...this is about the worst storm since the 91 Halloween blizzard...and you have no idea what that one was like either. For us in Minnesota - we have been dreaming of a winter like this. This is what winter should be like! The skiers, the bikers, skaters, snow-shoers...the list continues...love being outdoors in the winter. It is a totally different experience to say the least. Picture this, tooling through the woods on ski or bike or walking or whatever... the sun creating millions of tiny rainbows from the ice crystals...small tracks leading from here to there...the chickadees flying in close to see who you are ... and most of all the serene sound of old man winter blowing his frosty breath - whistling through the barren trees of old. The snow covered forest - untouched - moving and changing as sand dunes in the desert...it is really cool to get outdoors - and i don't mean in the city - but out where things just 'are', without advertisement, without industry, without others.... just you and the great expansive creation.

So to us in Minnesota - summer or winter - we can find and we DO find a great joy in times like this - you cant help but love the winter and the wonderful change that takes place. So here are some pics as I promised - I will have to get some pics of me pulling the kids on the bike in a bit here...I might have them posted or i will send them.

first... the new brakes - thanks to Trail Head...great upgrade and even better conversation - you gotta spend some time there just talking - Justin needs the attention...lol.

Okay, so that is the new bike stuff. Fat Tire is only 6 months away and my fingers are crossed and so is the wiring in my brain - so I hear. First time and the only bike I have is SS without suspension...it is better that I dont know what to expect. I hear it is a roadie course so I 'should' be okay but it is the enduring the abuse that is of interest to me. I will look forward to the finish line - oh, and a new handlebar too. Yikes, i spent more in brakes and bars than the bike is really worth...but then again - how can you put a price on an old friend?

NOW TO THE KIDS IN THE SNOW...


Here we are heading out


it is fun and
a tremendous
workout to say
the least. broke
the rope twice
so i went to
pulling 2 instead
of three. it is cold
today - low teens.























time for hot chocolate!!!!










havin a
blast










the snow
banks
remind me
of my
visit to
ElCapitan

these are
cool! snow drifts
on the roof.









THE
WALL














that is it - hope you all enjoy the family fun in the sun pictures. Have fun surfing today in Cali!


andy claflin

Ahhhhh, the slop, the snow and the pain

Riding with Strongheart
Okay, I did my part today in helping with the ongoing training of our faithful few who are dedicating countless hours to kids who need the help. Strongheart! Let me start by saying that heavy training in the winter months really pays off. It didn't for me as I have not kept up with it at all but today was a wake up call for the season. Thanks to Presidents Day, I had the day off. Tina and the kids took off for the day to a family friends house and I was left with too much time on my hands. Above freezing temps, wet roads, cold weather gear, my trusty Cannondale and Neil - what more do you need for a grueling ride? At 2 pm I was greeted at Trailhead by Stew and Larry - exchanged greetings, talked a little bike lingo, talked about Fat Tire and then the back door opened and Neil was ready to roll. We found a really neat route that mixed up some road, hills, slop, dirt....a nice 6-8 mile loop out at super preem. At super preem take a right, go past the church ( follow left on Fernbrook) to your first right. Take that to Zanzibar and turn right ( gravel) to south diamond lake road, take a right back to the base of super preem. Today ... it was muddy and a bit difficult with road tires. Okay, it wasn't the tires so much as it was that I haven't ridden that much. Neil looked great - well, he better, he is riding across America this summer. I was good for about 10 miles and then I was left in the dust. My brain was thinking last summer and my body was screaming " what are you doing?" It was a wake up call to say the least. I logged 35.5 miles from my home and the bonking wasn't fun either. It is a delicate balance this fitness thing... When I made it to Dunn Bros. I realized I had eaten Kashi Oatmeal, which is really good, for breakfast...and two tacos and Hostess Ho Ho's for lunch. No one in their right mind would do this in the summer so I am not sure what I was thinking. BUT - as Neil said, as he always says...." Hey, your out here man - that's what counts!" So, make this early spring count. If you think it is too early to pound the miles - talk to Neil and Bernie....they have many miles to count before the Ride Across America.
My hats off to you guys and thank you Neil for starting my season off right.... in pain.

Do you know who this is?

So do you know him?
Take a look. Cold weather rider. Wet weather rider. Making it work the best he can. Why? for the ride - simple enough. Yes it is a drawing of a pro rider from days since past - one of the guys I used to watch for in Velo News in college. It serves as a reminder when I just didn't feel like getting off my butt cuz it was a bit dreary outside. The real picture paints a better story. In taking the time to draw this many moons ago, I got lost in the image. For us, being cycling nuts, fanatics - as I heard once " one step short of crazy is passionate" - this is the look we strive for.

When the sun is out - yeah your gonna ride. When it is cloudy with the hot damp air about you - you bet. I like those days. When it is 120% chance of cold and crappy??? Those are the days you measure your worth both in the physical and the mental. As Neil has said " hey, you made it out - that's what counts."

I missed the road today. I missed making the turn out of the south end of Elm Creek to see a spec of yellow waiting at the stop sign - another friend, another memory - the smile, the nod and the exchange of smiles. Leaving our titles and accolades behind for a moment in time to share the love of a sport we hold so dear.

So when I made it home this evening after spin class - there he was...on the wall with that grimace, that grit and desire. So I had no choice... on with the shoes, the gloves and the hat... the ride tonight was thick with memories.

Yup, it was cold, but it was cool

Yes, the ride today was a bit chilly.
My toes are still cold and they hurt.
I hear they make boot like
things to wear on your feet...lol.

If not for the exercise at least
some bragging rights to say
that I made it out in this weather.
Stupidity comes to mind, but it
didnt at first. Come on, its a bike
ride - nothing stupid about that.

Did you get out to ride today????? I hope you did as it was cold,12 deg when I left, but it was cool. My daughter loves the camera - but we need to make sure she holds the camera steady. I was just heading out for a lap in the park. It seemed to take about 4-5 miles to just get the core temp up a bit. Some off road, mainly on road - one heck of a day. The after picture would have been less optimistic - I had the classic frozen snot all over that mask and I could barely walk once I got off the bike. The looks from people on the street getting to the park was priceless. Yeah, I am hardcore....lol.

What was really neat was the ride through the 3 foot deep snow at the ski area. They had all the snow makers running at full tilt. I stoped to talk with one of the guys working on one of them and he was glad that the weather was like this...I am too. My entrance back into CC skiing starts this winter - thanks to Neil, Jay and it seems everyone else I ride with in the summer...ahhh, the fellowship lives on.

The ride back home was less than enjoyable. That pit-stop at the snow machine cost me valuable heat and my little toes were numb - i need the boot things. Every mile seemed slower and slower. I tried to set goals - just make it to the next turn, just make it over the next hill ... and so on. I was afraid to go down hills as the heat loss was worse. Frozen snot, frozen tears, frozen sweat in my jacket crinkled and cracked as I moved. Was it worth all this? Oh yeah, every bone chilling mile. With a few extra miles here and there - a pit stop at Dunn Bros for a hot cup of java juice - 22 miles never felt harder to complete. So yes it was cold - but really cool!

Cinderella Man

I never thought the days would come when I would be once again - stationary on a trainer....okay, I know we can still ride in this weather - and it aint all that bad really ... yet. For some of the hardcore cyclist like Bernie and John - winter is just a time to not put the bike away but to rather get the other set of tires out. Well, last night we ( Bernie, Neil and I ) logged about - oh say just over 20 miles and we didn't move an inch. It was funny....just when someone would get out of the saddle to either stretch or push a bit harder - instinctively we all did - ya know- bridge the gap. funny. The movie...Cinderella Man. Good flick. First time watching a feature film while training - sure makes it easier. I felt like we were actually watching Jumangi with the river of sweat running out from under Neils bike through Bernies house and into the back yard. lol. Hey, if you want to see a good movie - Jumanji is worth the rent - you will get the illustration of Neils sweat if you havent seen it. Man, that guy can really loose the water weight. Neil, we love you and we kid cuz we care. Dont worry, any words we use as an attack - you later beat out of us on the bike - its all good.

All in all, good to be back with friends again. It had been way too long with all that has been going on. Life can get busy so take the time - when you can - to let the brain breath a touch. The best thing of all was watching Neil do that Dancing Game on the Xbox over at Bernies - Neal has all the moves.

Good to see you guys and thanks for the invite Bernie - your hospitality is appreciated.



Andy

Like A Kid Again!

So what do you do when it is too wet outside to go for a ride?







Easy, you go for a ride. It is that simple....and if you pick the right terrain - you will remember that smile you had as a kid after a big rain storm and the sewer drain plugged up. Don't get me wrong....the road bike is a blast. The lessons that the body learns are priceless. Endurance, speed, long term conditioning....ride with the right crew and you will be trying to catch your breath...believe me, I know. The Tues/Thurs Loons - especially Jay and Neil - like to pound the road. BUT - take what you have learned on the road and take it off-road....now it gets interesting.

The last few weeks have been a bit of a liberating experience. I dusted off the Mt Bike - took off all but one gear and hit the dirt....mainly mud and I found some freedom. Elm Creek has way too much to offer - road, trails and skiing. The usual route is really not usual - with all the different trails, you can mix it up. TT, fast, technical, clean and dirty - it is all there. My starting point is easy to find....go up Super Preme and at the T intersection - keep going straight. Start there, or anywhere and soak it all in. The northern horse trails are rough and filled with land mines that smell really bad. The mud holes are many. I love it!

You must not forget that cycling is about your own achievement. Taking what you know and building on the last ride. Beating your last time. You dont need the latest Voodoo bike to make it work - I am riding a 17 year old full ridged, beat up old mt bike and my smiles are many.

Take a ride on the dirt and see a side of the world that many dont ever see. Take that road less traveled...you may find that what waits for you is more than mystery - it's your childhood all over again.

AC

my new favorite picture.....

Outstanding Ride - wow.

this pic is for you Jay

If you have not had a chance to take the road less travled in Elm Creek.... I mean those dirt pathways you catch a glimpse of every now and then while on asphalt. There is a whole new side to the park that you just don't see. As a side note....My neighbor Gary told me that many many years ago you used to be able to go down pineview - and after super preme the road used to go straight through where the park is now. It used to pass by some apple orchards. He has lived here a long time. I thought this was very interesting. If I am not mistaken , there is evidence of this on some of the wide open pea gravel parts of the park trail system. Jay, you probably know of this....

I took the new single speed out for a run. I found out that the 38x19 works pretty good. There are some interesting hills to navigate with one gear. I was wincing up one hill and there were some hikers at the top watching me come up the hill. I had no choice but to get up without getting off the bike - vanity I say. Once I reached the summit - they asked why I didn't shift to make it easy - I was so proud to say, " that would be the normal thing to do but I only have one gear." They asked if that was by choice. " Yup, ( breathing heavy ) that was by choice." I thought it was cool that I did it.....they probably thought I was nuts!

I flushed a few grouse, saw three fawns - spots almost gone. Almost went extremely horizontal on the wet grass at unsafe speeds - slicks were not the best choice. LOL. I then got lost and then caught a glimpse of the path and other people. I careened through the brush and emerged blasting onto the trail - dragging some vine thing wrapped around my rear hub. I am not sure what the people thought of that but I was glad to be heading a direction back towards civilization. I really like that you can loose yourself out there - not really loose as you are always going to find a road. Take a ride anywhere in the park and stop every now and then and just breath deep - God made the small details in life and sometimes you have to slow down to see and enjoy them.

Enjoy the ride. I was glad to get back into the woods - it has been too long since I got in touch with the Thoreau side of things. Addicting. That is how it should be.

AC


ps. got a wonderfully kept bridgeston MB3 with deore group stuff on it....for free! now, my wife is excited about biking as it looks " stylish " and it has shiney things on it. this is one nice bike. finally, my wife likes biking - and all it took was the right color....lol.

the birth of the Rat Bike.....

I created a new blog for my single speed project. I have affectionatley named it...

Rat Bike


Tonight was the first innagural ride through the park to TH Backdoor - Thanks to Justin for showing me the correct method to alligning brake pads....i should have known how to do that.....at least i got the low down on Mosh Pit, Razor Pit physics. The ride back home was very dark - no lights and all I saw was a deer run across the trail. very cool.

click here to see the project


www.mysinglespeed.blogspot.com


ac

the great Champlain get together

Well, we all had the invite and if you missed it.... you missed a great time. I will take my hat off to Erik for a great party - talk about a spread! the food, beverage, fun and fellowship was unmatched. Then Neil found the electric guitar - oh my. The distortion was high and the already crazy Neil turned into a weird cross between Dylan and VanHalen - it was hard to tell when that line was crossed. The Loons were represented by Erik, Jay, Neil, Diamond Dallas Dave and me. The rest were friends and family of Erik. It was a real blast.

I kept wondering about the ride home - that's right, Jay , Neil and I rode to Eriks house and by the time of 10:30, I decided to embark through the park to get home. This was a bit spooky. I was given a light to use but found it best to ride without. The fog was at eye level the entire time and all I could think about was the movie American Werewolf in London.



If you have seen it, you would know my hair was on edge. To top it off, I was passing lifetime fitness and then down into the fog and I heard something running along side me in the grass. I have never sprinted that fast in unsafe conditions. I spook easy. Then like a knife, this howling rang through the night air from both sides of the trail - I about wet myself. I did not know that there were some form of wild dog in the park. I am not making this up. I turned on the light to see a pair of eyes running with me on the trail. I did not want to stop to pet it. I found that I was going a bit too fast after that as my computer said 25 mph and my heart rate must have been around 500 bpm. I came cruzin into the Hayden lake road parking lot and almost nailed the gate on the trail and an old couple out for a night stroll. There were screams and swear words yelled as I rode on. Getting home never felt so good.

Thanks Erik for the great time - we must return the favor.



ac

Incredible!

I didn't know I had that many sweat glands! wow!

did we miss this sign? it looks like a nice place to visit.
Skibby, I like the choice of shirt and saddle bags - nice touch.

Yeah, that's right - IT WAS HOT. Okay, to get a feel for the ride today - you can simulate to some degree right at home. First, turn on your furnace and direct all the air into one small room in your house. Put on some winter clothes and run in place for about....say, 5 hours. Secondly, while running in place - take a hair dryer and turn it on hot and high and position it to blow in your mouth and nose. Thirdly, give yourself some charlie horses on the thighs to simulate muscle fatigue. Doing this might get you close to the joy we felt on the open road today.

100 miles - a Saturday from down under. We got an early start at 7 am and had 14 riders! Way to go. We headed out through Dayton and had some Rubaix style cyclo cross - that was for Bernard. Out to Albertville and then headed south to Buffalo, Rockford, Delano - I am not really sure all of the cities but it ended up being 93 miles back to the shop. I had to tack on 7 more once I got home as to not be the guy that didn't quite make it. I had to do it on my wife's mt. bike as mine had to see the pros at Trailhead for some hub grinding thing. It was really warm especially after 10 am. I added up the ammount of water I drank on the ride and it was over a gallon consumed. I did weigh the same after the ride which means I sweated out about 10 pounds of water! That is amazing! Great ride everyone - Great effort - an effort even Sean Kelly would be proud of.

I also want to thank all who gave to help Adam. He was surprised and grateful as he could not understand why people he had not even met would be so generous! Adam is a man that will not give up! What a better inspiration for today's ride? There is none. Just know that you can look inside and know that you are BBA! Brilliant Beautiful and Amazing! Thank you on behalf of Adam.

As for the title, it is true. Once you stoped it was insane how every inch of your body poured out sweat - I really didnt know that the human body had that many glads. Gross? Yes. Fulfilling - 100%. Keep up the good riding and be safe in the coming days.

AC

ps. Skibby - that is about as close as I will get to your suggested title. lol. nice to finally meet you.

Viva Los Americanos

Ahhh, the topic today..... a little old school Raul Alcala. ( take a look... Kelly with the toeclips - did that guy ever get clipless? - I love it!!!!)

As you can guess, we had our own Alcala of the Loons today on the ride ... that's Mr. Jorge to you. lol. Four of us embarked on a absolutely gorgeous ride this fine 4th of July. I am so used to riding in the power heat that riding in the cool morning was a real blessing. I was also pleased that the pace was not at 22 mph. I had a restless night and some of us didnt have a night at all to sleep. We put on 35 miles out past Fletcher, added on the TT route and back on 144 through Rogers and Dayton. The ride was well enjoyed. Think about it, dragging yourself out of bed and waking up to the cool breeze and flawless coutryside. What worries did we have? Our Nation's birthday and we spent it over the road. The 4th foursome included Dave (Thor) Henningsgaard, Eric J ( a.k.a. No-Doz ), Jorge and me.

Also, with Eric loaded up on No-Doz, we took a side jaunt to the sports center and Eric showed us some great moves on his Trick Orbea.... amazing what recreational drug use will do to a man. Take a look at Eric's great aerial move.

Kudo's to you Thor for the Super Prime. I was surprised that a man that tall was that unnoticed over my shoulder. lol. I should also mention Eric and his persistence in draggin his butt out of bed, eventhough he worked until 2:30 am, just to go biking. Eric, you said you weren't going to break any records? Well, the fact that you showed that early and then attacked up super prime says enough! Thank you all who rode today, it was a real treat to meet you all. Hey Jorge - I will try the Acapulco out....thanks for the tip.

ac

Mt Goat

Amazing, I remembered my new password to change this thing. Way to go Jake! You deserve the poka dot jersey tonight....the smiley faces are a nice touch. Great ride.

We took a trek northward to Monticello and back to Dayton. I know I put on 62 miles and went through one CO2 - Tube combo. It looks like I may need a tire too. Dang, just got them too. This sure is a nice route to take. Predictable primes which is cause for mass sprints. Just a note -- make sure to look over your left shoulder prior to busting out for a sprint or a pass. There are cars back there and if you are not cautious you may get the finger or worse a bumper. It has a few nice long but gradual climbs - perfect for laying on the speed if you like. We also had the blessing of having "Heavy D" Delaney with us tonight and his Retro Loon garb which was right up there with his Zebra outfit.

Again, I am reminded every time we ride that we have a great group of people. I cant think of a single person that isn't a blast to talk with - yes, even you Bernie. The encouragement, the excitement - getting to know people. Each and every person on the bike tonight put a great effort out there - they left it all on the road.

Hey Hogland - you were missed. It was good to see you the other night. Get better so you can kick our butts.

So What's With The Finger?

You have been there. You know that of which I speak. Maybe they just dont know. Maybe they wish they could too but instead they lash out in anger and frustration. Okay, at times, we give them good reason to do so but for the most part - I dont get it.

Picture the evening ride tonight - a cool 70 deg. no wind and a wide open road. I had no choice but to ride from work up in Forest Lake for about 20 miles. Plenty of shoulder and wonderful scenery - the ducks, the deer, the wild turkey that I saw. It was as if God brought out His pallet just for me and converted the passage way just to my liking. Nothing tough like the Stone Arch ride but more along the lines of consistant pace, flat and enjoyable. Then there it was...like an ugly mark upon the face of God's creation. The finger.

Whenever I get this, I reflect back thinking I had swerved into traffic. I would deserve this but I didnt do that. Maybe this person knows me and dosnt like me - but I am unrecognizable in a Loon outfit. What possessed that person to flip me off? I know I smelled but there is no way he could smell my BO with his windows up. Maybe he wished he could enjoy the same joy I was feeling but he felt trapped in life. All the same, there it was - lingering like the sunset hanging over the horizon of his bench seat.

Well, I wish them all the best. Too bad they cant see the things we all get to see. I am also reminded that the attitude needs to be right, and not just on the bike. We all define who we are by the actions we take so make it plesant and inviting.

Have a good ride and smile the next time the finger goes up - its best not the let them win by getting angry. Be BBA and not CBA - you owe it to the people around you!


ac

A Special Thanks to Trailhead Cycle and Fitness

Long overdue - let me take a moment to thank the crew at Trailhead - for those in the lower regions of the metro, it is one heck of a shop with a crew that really gives all they have to make your ride the best it can be. It starts at the top - Larry and Pam. We all have our allegence to a particular shop or mechanic but if you are looking for a warm welcome and top rate info and advice, you owe it to yourself to come see TH. The sad thing is that I dont even know all the names there but not a single person is crass, stand offish or not interested in helping - kind of like our Loon group up here - great people havin a great time.

Being in sales, I see the value in getting to know my customers - not just the names but also the lives they lead. This is what brings them back time and again. This is exactly what Larry and Pam do for all who have darkened the door at TH. Kudos to you Saylers, you are doing a heck of a job making your shop a place of refuge for cyclists of all calibers.

ac

Tuesday night Neil Honorarium Ride

Is He Doing It For The Points?
He's Doing It For The Ride!

I hope that we all remember this day - like the one above. The day you set yourself free and found the open road - or driveway. It grew from there, being more bold, more daring - and yes, sometimes more stupid. But all the same - you got hooked. Don't forget that feeling - for the lucky ones ( most of us ) that feeling has never left -- feeling 5 years old and free!

Good ridin' tonight boys and girls. We had a 60 mile ride down to Rockford back up to Albertville and through Rogers back home. Hot and muggy - couldn't ask for better weather. Make sure to pack the GU and Superman Drink stuff - bonking and dehydration happens alot. First off, the Butkus award to Ryan - man, way to hang in the whole way - and with a smile! It was tough today as the heat was intense. A total of 7 riders tonight - good turn out. If I am not mistaken - Melinda taught Jay a lesson on the Rockford prime....Here's the deal, if Melinda leads out - you're gonna have a tough time drafting behind her - her profile is paper thin. I don't even notice a difference in a head wind if I am in front or right behind Melinda - completely not fair....Not fair at all.

Ya know, I was curious why we have to go all over to race. We have it all right here on a Tuesday / Thursday night ride - this is for you Neil - SIGN RACING - it is free and exceptionally competitive! Okay, so you don't get points - big deal - you do get the belt however. Hey, we are all in it for the ride - so get out and ride your little heart out and enjoy the experience! We are all a bunch of friends out for a ride!

Be Good

BBA

221 Primes - yeah, yellow sign riding in Afton.

Okay, so 221 may be an exaggeration but it seemed like it. The ride today in Stillwater was exceptional and grueling. 50 miles from the Depot to Afton and a few extra hills in Afton. Four of us let out and Neil was in true retro form - toeclips. It sure is nice to make sure you bring the right shoes. Riding in the NW Metro is great - not many hills and certainly not a bunch of killers in a row. This was a taste of yesteryear for me as growing up in LaCrosse was just like we had this morning. The ride had a quick tempo and the weather was cool - good combo in my opinion. If you get a chance, take a ride to the Stillwater area and ride the hills - your ability will soar and your legs will too. As a side note, every yellow, orange and well - it seemed like every sign was a sprint - thus the random number of 221 for the primes. The Stillwater Interval Vertical Challenge - seems like a fitting name. Thanks Neil for being the tour guide - we should do this again - I will remember to bring an extra set of SPD's for you!

How About Helping Someone Who Really Needs It?

Okay, I am not sure how to do this but it sure makes sense. Remember Adam Prest....look below, he is the bald guy with cancer - innoperable and unable to work. Now,take a close look, he is smiling and has a wonderful wife and new baby. No guilt here just a radom act of unselfish kindness. Let's have a bennefit ride and raise a few bucks for Adam and his family - how do we do this - I have no idea whatsoever but the word can get out and maybe dedicate a week of rides and raise some monetary aid for him....I am thinking just give him the cash. Trust me, he is my friend and it isnt the best of situations. He smiles, laughs and jokes at the funny biking clothes but there is a large ammount of fear in his not to distant future.

So, what do you say, how can we do this? A goal? Whatever the Lord may lead but let's put a number out there.....$1000 to start. Any suggestions on how to get the word out and get something put together?

as a side note..........------------------> rule number six...see links - it will help us understand.


Andy Claflin

It will bring you up a few notches!

Neil's new Time Trial Bike

Yeah, the Thursday night ride was interesting. We had 8 riders and I was in full Loon regalia. Yes it is now official. Okay, so now that I have my fast shirt, I am at LEAST 22% more efficient. Just kidding. Riding with superior riders can be frustrating - most have egos that don't quit and would not want to compromise their ride time with the lesser bunch.....Not tonight. I would like to think that our core group of riders are all great, in fact I know they are because it isn't the ability that makes them so. We have to remember that cycling is a fitness sport yes but the ride is a fellowship enjoyment. We had a mix of both tonight. If you were there tonight, you know of whom I speak.

Again, a life and work lesson in full play. How many have ever excelled in an area, take your pick, only to really step up the game a notch when a stronger ability steps in? It is neat to see that happen. We see it in schools, work, life, church etc. I try to make connections with the bike and life as much as possible as cycling lends itself so well in this area. Example: in cycling you are alone but when you need the team, they are there - willing to help, to encourage and lead. Sound like life? Also, when you attack to do it on your own, you succeed sometimes and other times you are taught a valuable lesson...

Tonight was fast....Most of the time. We incorporated tactics, team effort and encouragement - this brought us all up a notch - going home with a bit more achievement for sure. Some were missed on the ride but not forgotten as the fellowship will again be there soon. So, to the Loons of tonight's ride - I thank you and to the the Rocket Man ( you know who you are ) - we all thank you.

Have a great week all and ride on


Andy

A More Serious Note....if you will.

I hope you have one of these....it is rather important in life and it is also a tremendous barometer of who you are. Simply put, a friend. Okay, we all have one or a few but do we have one that you would put your life in jeopardy for? Ahh, now it gets a bit serious and the list shortens up by a few. Well, I have a few like that. I am not bragging, just thankful. The bond is strong, the trust is lasting and the loyalty is endless -- and it is now tested. Though I cannot give my life for his nor take the pain away for another, in this case, I can give my best through the trial - happy with the outcome knowing that all was done.
My friend, in this case, is Adam. Strong, cheerful, giving, a bit too serious at times like the time I caught him taking inventory of the crabapples on his tree. Funny. He is like this. He is also very ill - cancer ( soft tissue ) stage 4. Just found out about 4 months ago. Had a chance to see him yesterday after 3 bouts with chemo and to my surprise - smiling, joking, making fun of me in my cycling shorts and so on... Adam is like that. Though the growth has stopped, the pain is subsided and the odds were beat - the chance of relaps is great. A friend I wish I could change places with...but I cant.


Tonight at church was a time for me to reflect on life...Rule #6 was in full effect ---> SEE THE LINK ON THE RIGHT <---- issues are big, strong, ugly issues. In fact, I am not sure how to actually face my not too distant future - it is serious. But all I could think about was - " am I that self-centered that I only think of me....what about Adam, his wife and baby?" Wow, good ol' number six - smacked me right in the face.

I leave you with a hymm written in 1912 that made me realize that I need to do my best like Adam is doing right now - and take your pick as to which area of our lives it is referencing - all areas are under construction.

Our Best Hear ye the Masters call, Give me thy best..For, be it great or small, that is His Test..Do then the best you can, not for reward.. Not for the praise of men, but for the Lord..Wait not for men to laud, heed not their slight..Winning the smile of God brings its delight! .. Aiding the good and true, Ne'er goes unblest, All that we think or do, be it the best

Our best...well, Adam still gives his best and his chips are down and the sunset of his days may be at hand...how much more can we reach out with strength in our fingers, hair on our heads - you know? Why does it have to take extreme folly and tragedy to bring the best in us out?

Keep Adam in your prayers - it is needed.