This whole SS Thing

Let me just start out by saying that people who ride bikes are just plain cool. SS, and yes even geared people. Over the years, I have come across many-a-rider, racers that I could just as well say they are very good friends, even though we may only see each other a few times a year. It is a celestial bond, eh that was stupid. Seriously though, I can count on one hand the people I have had the misfortune of meeting. They tend to be the "I dont have to converse with you because you may taint my ability to snuff you out on the course." attitude.

This year was a lot of fun for me. What has really been fun, is the people I have met through Strava. Yeah, a few kinks here and there, but good. Riding with a few and waiting to ride with a few. I have been having fun just going out and riding now that everything is over. Still pushing, but a little left of center.

I dont know what possesses you to read this stuff, or even me writing it, but thanks for the kind words and friendships made through this mindless bantering. I guess I was able to help in a small, bizarre sort of way.

Less work, More riding

I am the latest recipient of less work, more idle time. Quite frankly, it sucks and I am not real happy about it. It does allow me more riding time and spending more time with the kids, but that doesnt pay bills. I think I have to face the facts and find other employment. Not easy right now, but it something that I have to seriously think about.

I did get in a nice-albeit soaking 38 miler today on the road, and felt unusually well for 45° and wet. It actually was very peaceful and allowed me to collect my thoughts and such about my future. Luckily for me, I have a wife that is always there for me. We have been married 20 years and we have had our shares of ups and downs, but man-she's the best. God has provided before, and he will again; just sort of frustrating right now. Eh, enough with the Debbie downer stuff and look forward to a brighter and happier time. Over and out!

Boing...Boing...Boing

Ha...I know what was going through your mind. Mine too. Anyway, I have gone and done the unthinkable. Remember lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump? Thought he would never come to terms with God. He cursed him and swore he would never see his side? I lieutenant Danned the whole dual suspension thing or even the geared thing for a long time. I found myself in a unique situation to land a Superfly 100al Elite. What on earth made you decide this you say? Well, it was really a simple decision; 43 and getting older, and still wanting to be at the top of my game in the whole monocogging venture requires me to take it a little easier at times.

Initial thoughts of the bike are pretty promising. Although I am not as fast as I would be on the SS, this bike is solid. There was a few times on the first couple of rides that it felt a bit twitchy on the descents, but I attribute that to me not being used to a pogo machine. The factory spec-ed ride is a good spec-SLX/XT as is. The SLX brakes are amazing. As much as I like my Avids, these are pretty impressive.

 Stock comes in at 28.8lbs; um how much bacon would you like? Mine is down to 26.1 lbs. It doesnt ride like it weighs that much, though. I will give a more detailed report once I hit 100 miles or so.

Just a reflection of the year

Well, now that the season is officially over, it is time to just go out and enjoy the ride. A few cross races mixed in here and there, but now is the time to have some fun.

I learned a bit more about myself this year both as an athlete and a person. I have ridden nearly 5,000 (5,886 since last august) miles since the beginning of the year. I rode the entire season on the singlespeed and finished on the podium 9 times (with two 1st's and an overall series win). I really focused on finishing at the top of every race and riding as aggressive as my middle-aged body could muster. Now, my body is definetely feeling the effects of the years' workout. I found myself really "trying" to stick to my regimen-well about 75% of the time anyway. My goal was to train 10 hours a week, buuuut...3 kids, work, etc. ended up more like 6-7 hours. Still, I was able to completely trash my previous years efforts, I mean by  quite a bit. My goal this year was to stay focused, even through the pain and keep pace with the faster guys that I couldnt stay with last year. I think I was successful for the most part. There were still a few instances where I had the chance to take it and just couldnt pull the trigger. No answer for this, but looking back, it bugs the crap out of me. Eh, move on and race another day.

I met some new people this year and continued some old rivalries as well. I always enjoy seeing the guys and girls that I normally dont get the chance to ride with on a daily basis. I even learned to embrace the roadie side of me as well. I guess I have to thank the old guy who decided I looked better as a hood ornament rather than a cyclist back in july. I have put nearly 1000 miles on the road since then. It is sometimes nice to stretch the legs on the road and get some nice climbing  under the belt. I entered my first sprint tri and found out I can run, and somewhat quick.

Cycling is a great sport. You dont have to be the fastest nor the fittest. You dont have to ride something that costs more than some peoples' cars either. Cycling is a great social tool. They are great ways to explore and sometimes conquer both on the ground and in your head. Cycling can make you a better person, too. Being around so many others that share a common bond of always testing yourself, albeit in each others own way, just puts a smile on my face.

So thanks again to all who continue to think that I belong here with this great group of 29er advocates. Would I have it any other way? Nah.

Oh yeah, I now am the proud owner of a Superfly 100 Elite Dualie. So now I am the Singlespeed dualsuspension bouncy go boing boing thing a ma jig moron. Over and out.