After a brief hiatus, the roundup is back. I’ve officially decided that I need to either find an extra 40 hours per day, or a way to cut what I am doing to 1/3 my normal day. Then I might actually have time to ride or to brew. Notice, not both… one or the other. I did, actually, manage to get a ride in this past Monday, which by the way was awesome, and it felt really good. My legs felt great, I didn’t wake up with them in pain as I have in the last month. They were strong and I just kept turning the cranks. The only problem I almost had was my breathing. Luckily I had my inhaler, so I hit it and problem solved. With that said, I’m going half cycling half beer this week when I give you the Weekly Roundup.
Fat Cyclist: Fatty seems to have a similar problem. He hasn’t got a ride in for a bit and he is having a problem with Mr Grumpy Legs. I swear he’s on to something here. His legs were, apparently, hurting and sore from not riding. I noticed a similar thing. My knees and ankles were hurting after not riding or working them for a month. Also, I felt lethargic, achy, and sick a lot while I wasn’t doing what I knew I should.
Also, while you’re at Fatty’s site, check out more info on his 100 Miles To Nowhere ride. By the time you read this, you’re a little late to sign up, but the concept makes for a great read, and it’s raising MAD, sick money for cancer.
50K Loop NS: Leave it to Blueballer, er Bluenoser to bring balls into the mix. Bluenoser not only explains the theory of Boy Trucks. Bluenoser also explains how to properly retro fit your truck, or car I suppose, to be a Buoy Truck. Nice job BN.
Ray’s Racing Adventure’s: Fellow Clevelander Ray Huang shares a question that, to be honest has me baffled. Why is it that Cars Love The Right Lane So Much? Seriously? It’s as if they’re TRYING to clip you with their rear view mirror.
Highway Munky Blog: Munky is back in the saddle and riding again, after the unfortunate and painful looking tumble. He recently took off on a Hamsterly 50K, which he admits ran short after a wrong turn. I’ve never done that… No… I’ve run LONG after the wrong turn, getting lost, and pedaling around like an ass for hours. Digressing. Of course, he cracked out the knee pads for protection, only to not fall once. Murphy and his damn law, right?
Travels With A Tin Donkey: Finally on a somber note, yet again this week. That’s right, as if the passing of Yehuda Moon isn’t bad enough a few weeks back, Sprocketboy shares a Der Spiegel story on The End Of The Beer Coaster? Say it isn’t so?! Apparently the largest manufacturer of beer coasters (beer mats, et al) has gone bankrupt! What will we do? I love to grab a “souvenir beer coaster” when I’m at a watering hole and find a coaster I’m missing.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. Hopefully the weather will cooperate next Monday for the continuation of Monday night rides, I’m hearing rain... But I’m not going to believe it. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
30 April 2009
29 April 2009
The Joy Of Riding
Load up the bike in the car, and head out the door.Ahhhh, summer is here! Wait, no... it's not. Hmmmm. It's only April! I mean, it is late April, but, is it really? Yup 85ยบ, and sunny! Mind you, winds were hammering us at 28 mph and gusting at 37mph, but it felt good. Nay it felt damn good! Yup... We got in the first Monday night ride.
We had a just over 23 mile ride in just over an hour fifteen. It was a perfect day for it too. The only thing I hated was when, at a point or two, the combination of hill and headwind tried to get me, but I pulled through. I had a stretch of flat where I just got into a zone, and before I knew it I looked down and was cranking 25 mph out. Just turning the cranks, not thinking about what I was doing, just making it happen.
It felt so good to be back out and on the road weapon. Apparently the work on the legs over the winter season did some good. I got off the bike, and my legs felt great! A slight burn was there, but it was that good kind of burn that reminds you what a good time you had. We had three of seven show up for the ride, and it was actually a good group. We just got work done. I lead a lot since knew where we were going, but everyone took a turn in front. We looked out for one another, and were able to chat a bit on the ride. It was just a great time.
What better way to end it, you might ask? An old friend who I haven't seen, but came out for the ride, and I had some time once the sun was down and we couldn't ride to enjoy a couple good beers. For the record: An old favorite-Stone Levitation, and a beer that's new to me-Dogfish Head Aprihop. Both served on tap, and both hit the spot.
If you are in the area and didn't come out, you really should try your hardest to make it out next week. Just send me a message from the contact me link in the top right hand of the page. In the side bar! Hope all your rides this year are as good as this one was!
27 April 2009
Monday Night, Time For Riding
Coming off of a hellacious weekend, but this is not the time or the place for that right now. The time has come. The weather has broke, and after a weekend in the mid eighties the weekly rides start tomorrow. That's not, of course, to say those are the only rides to be had, but I have been planning on getting friends together to ride now for some time, and its coming to fruition. We will start in the 15-17 MPH range at 15-20 miles. I actually decided to can the maps in lieu of just riding it. I know where we're going, and we'll just take it one pedal stroke at a time. It's not going to be a hammer-fest, just enough to get back into the swing of things.
The "hot Swedish Model", as my wife has loving dubbed my road bike, is all made-up and ready to go! I even got a quick test spin, my first spin on the sweet sassy lady this year. The mountain bike has served her purpose for the winter, now the "woman swapping" starts. I'm anxious to get out on a trail this year, now that the snow is gone, but it will be good to get back out on the road weapon after an eight month hiatus due to weather, salt, and the like.
Still interested in joining us for the ride? In the Cleveland area, or will be in the Cleveland area? drop me a line HERE and I'll get you all the info that you need.
The "hot Swedish Model", as my wife has loving dubbed my road bike, is all made-up and ready to go! I even got a quick test spin, my first spin on the sweet sassy lady this year. The mountain bike has served her purpose for the winter, now the "woman swapping" starts. I'm anxious to get out on a trail this year, now that the snow is gone, but it will be good to get back out on the road weapon after an eight month hiatus due to weather, salt, and the like.
Still interested in joining us for the ride? In the Cleveland area, or will be in the Cleveland area? drop me a line HERE and I'll get you all the info that you need.
24 April 2009
Have A Great Weekend, The Hell Starts Monday
Cleveland weather has finally decided to cooperate. Monday the weather looks clear, and the temps in the seventies. What does this mean? The rides begin! Monday April 27, we will have a 5:30 pm start time in Lake County. If you want in, you're welcome to ride with us. This should be interesting. There are about seven of us right now, and it seems to be growing by the day. The ride will probably be just either side of 20 miles to start, ie: day one, and gaining in length and complexity over the summer. The first few will depend on things like temperature, weather, and light conditions. I don't plan on running lights, since I don't own any, so we'll be in before the sun sets.
If you're interested in joining in, please contact me HERE and I'll fill you in on all the details. I apologize for the lack of post yesterday, and the lame post today, but it has been hellacious around here over the last few weeks, and especially the past week. I'll have more for you on the first group ride of the year and much more next week. For now, have a great weekend, and check back Monday for more fun, er, phun.
If you're interested in joining in, please contact me HERE and I'll fill you in on all the details. I apologize for the lack of post yesterday, and the lame post today, but it has been hellacious around here over the last few weeks, and especially the past week. I'll have more for you on the first group ride of the year and much more next week. For now, have a great weekend, and check back Monday for more fun, er, phun.
22 April 2009
Tasting Of A Lifetime: Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale
Recently I had the occasion to bottle my first all-grain brewing collaboration. You may remember a while back I mentioned that I brewed beer at one time, until my wife recycled my gear. You may also remember my saying that I was getting back into brewing with a good friend of mine, and that I was taking the all-grain rout now. I haven't replaced my gear yet, so I am counting on my friend to teach me the ways of all-grain until I could get my setup going again. It's been nice, on account I can learn a new way of brewing a better beer, and when I have my gear I can put the lessons I'm learning to practical use.
To make a long, possibly painful, story short... My friend and I had the opportunity to bottle our first batch of beer that we brewed together. It seemed like a special enough occasion to pull out all of the stops and crack a true treasure out of the cellar. I broke down, and cracked open my VERY special Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale.
For those who may not understand why this is such a special event, Stone puts out one Vertical Epic a year. They started with 02.02.02, then 03.03.03, and so on. They are specially designed and made to be bottle conditioned until 12.12.12 or later. On that day, my friend and I cracked open and tasted a delight! The Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale. Here are my tasting notes for this amazing brew. If you ever have the chance, I suggest you try it!
APPEARANCE: Dark brown, nearly black, but with a very subtle burgundy hue (bordering on oxblood red?). Very Clear. Noticeably tan head.
AROMA: A very malty, caramelly aroma, with a slight coffee note and with some definite alcohol notes present.
FLAVOR: Malt, malt, more malt. Wonderfully smooth, rich, and somewhat sweet, but not cloyingly so. Subtle hints of caramel, chocolate, molasses, and (maybe) a slight coffee-ish note. Some noticeable bitterness of hops, but they were not overwhelming.
PALATE: Definitely leaning toward full-bodied, but extremely well balanced. Definitely not as full bodied as a strong ale. There was a noticeable, but light, heat (of alcohol) about it. Would love to know where it was at ABV when we cracked it open.
NOTES: I could easily make this a session beer, but it would be a session beer that rendered me completely stupid drunk after two or three pints. It was full, but very enjoyable, and very rich.
Sorry for the lousy picture, all I had was my phone as my camera took a dump on me.
Again, if you ever have the opportunity to try this, you simply must!
To make a long, possibly painful, story short... My friend and I had the opportunity to bottle our first batch of beer that we brewed together. It seemed like a special enough occasion to pull out all of the stops and crack a true treasure out of the cellar. I broke down, and cracked open my VERY special Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale.
For those who may not understand why this is such a special event, Stone puts out one Vertical Epic a year. They started with 02.02.02, then 03.03.03, and so on. They are specially designed and made to be bottle conditioned until 12.12.12 or later. On that day, my friend and I cracked open and tasted a delight! The Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale. Here are my tasting notes for this amazing brew. If you ever have the chance, I suggest you try it!
APPEARANCE: Dark brown, nearly black, but with a very subtle burgundy hue (bordering on oxblood red?). Very Clear. Noticeably tan head.
AROMA: A very malty, caramelly aroma, with a slight coffee note and with some definite alcohol notes present.
FLAVOR: Malt, malt, more malt. Wonderfully smooth, rich, and somewhat sweet, but not cloyingly so. Subtle hints of caramel, chocolate, molasses, and (maybe) a slight coffee-ish note. Some noticeable bitterness of hops, but they were not overwhelming.
PALATE: Definitely leaning toward full-bodied, but extremely well balanced. Definitely not as full bodied as a strong ale. There was a noticeable, but light, heat (of alcohol) about it. Would love to know where it was at ABV when we cracked it open.
NOTES: I could easily make this a session beer, but it would be a session beer that rendered me completely stupid drunk after two or three pints. It was full, but very enjoyable, and very rich.
Sorry for the lousy picture, all I had was my phone as my camera took a dump on me. Again, if you ever have the opportunity to try this, you simply must!
21 April 2009
Open Letter To Stone Brewing
Dear Greg Koch, and the rest of the brewing deities at Stone Brewing
I write today to humble myself and say "I am not worthy". I gave up on the fizzy yellow stuff as true beer a while back now. As I stepped away from the fizzy yellow beers, which will go unnamed as to not make them sad, I got into complexity, hop character, head & lacing, color, malt, and everything that goes into making a good beer taste delicious. Back in 2002 or 2003, I had my first Arrogant Bastard. It was a revelation to me, like nothing I had ever tried before. I bought an Arrogant Bastard, a Double Bastard, and (as best as I can remember) a Stone Smoked Porter. It was the beginning of, what I had no idea would become, an addiction.
After trying these beers, I tried more. I'm pretty sure I've now tasted just about everything you guys have put out since, save a couple of Anniversary Beers that I've missed. I have three of the seven Vertical Epics aging, and have tried four of them. Yeah sucks, right? I accidentally popped open my only '03 and drank it. Regardless, and digressing.
Stone Brewing. I would be humbled, and honored to taste anything you could get my way. I'd even go so far as to host tasting parties surrounding your beers. I know, it looks as though I'm trying to cop free beer. I guess maybe I am? Bottom line is I love your beers, I know many people who love your beers, and I would love to share your beers with friends and have the opportunity to review some of the ones that I am not able to get in my area.
Further, I have a great deal of interest in cloning your beers, and would love if, when I do, I could send some your way, and share the tasting notes right here on this blog. My first ever true clone was a partial clone of Arrogant Bastard, and it's what had me striving to brew a better beer. Now, I'll drop a disclaimer here. I am still working on recipes and still getting my all-grain brewing skills down-pat, but I assure you, I would love to get it down and get some in your hands to taste.
If you are interested, at all, in working on something with me, please feel free to CONTACT ME by clicking that link. You know the on that looks like this: "CONTACT ME".
Thanks in advance for your consideration,
Don
http://cyclingphun.blogspot.com
PS!: This is an aside to Stone and Stone fans! Check back tomorrow for a special Tasting Note on the Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale. You won't want to miss this post if you are a fan of good beer, and especially Stone Brewing.
PPS: I swear I'll get back to more regular cycling lately. Things have just been crazy, and I haven't been getting in many rides. I PROMISE... more cycling to come!
I write today to humble myself and say "I am not worthy". I gave up on the fizzy yellow stuff as true beer a while back now. As I stepped away from the fizzy yellow beers, which will go unnamed as to not make them sad, I got into complexity, hop character, head & lacing, color, malt, and everything that goes into making a good beer taste delicious. Back in 2002 or 2003, I had my first Arrogant Bastard. It was a revelation to me, like nothing I had ever tried before. I bought an Arrogant Bastard, a Double Bastard, and (as best as I can remember) a Stone Smoked Porter. It was the beginning of, what I had no idea would become, an addiction.
After trying these beers, I tried more. I'm pretty sure I've now tasted just about everything you guys have put out since, save a couple of Anniversary Beers that I've missed. I have three of the seven Vertical Epics aging, and have tried four of them. Yeah sucks, right? I accidentally popped open my only '03 and drank it. Regardless, and digressing.
Stone Brewing. I would be humbled, and honored to taste anything you could get my way. I'd even go so far as to host tasting parties surrounding your beers. I know, it looks as though I'm trying to cop free beer. I guess maybe I am? Bottom line is I love your beers, I know many people who love your beers, and I would love to share your beers with friends and have the opportunity to review some of the ones that I am not able to get in my area.
Further, I have a great deal of interest in cloning your beers, and would love if, when I do, I could send some your way, and share the tasting notes right here on this blog. My first ever true clone was a partial clone of Arrogant Bastard, and it's what had me striving to brew a better beer. Now, I'll drop a disclaimer here. I am still working on recipes and still getting my all-grain brewing skills down-pat, but I assure you, I would love to get it down and get some in your hands to taste.
If you are interested, at all, in working on something with me, please feel free to CONTACT ME by clicking that link. You know the on that looks like this: "CONTACT ME".
Thanks in advance for your consideration,
Don
http://cyclingphun.blogspot.com
PS!: This is an aside to Stone and Stone fans! Check back tomorrow for a special Tasting Note on the Stone 05.05.05 Vertical Epic Ale. You won't want to miss this post if you are a fan of good beer, and especially Stone Brewing.
PPS: I swear I'll get back to more regular cycling lately. Things have just been crazy, and I haven't been getting in many rides. I PROMISE... more cycling to come!
20 April 2009
The Sorrow Of The Weekend
Well, where to start. Having a home and a family lends itself to both amazingly fun times, and times of chaos and compromise. In this case, both ensued. I had every intention of getting a ride in on both Friday and Saturday. Friday was in the mid fifties and gorgeous! The sun was out, the air was clean, and smelled like spring... finally. It was just great. Until... So at work I was waiting on a call, all day. A call that could mean a pretty decent payoff financially for me. So I figured that when I told literally everyone in the place to interrupt me no matter what should this call come through... I figured whoever got it would. Well, the entire day passed and still no call. It could've been a mistake or a really good sign of positive things happening, so I was only about one-fifth concerned. Well, the bottom line is that the call came in at 12:30, I was at work, no one bothered to tell me, no one gave me the message that they took, and I wound up staying way later than I had planned for nothing. Not to mention I might have had a chance to close a deal, but since it was almost six when everything finally went down, I wasn't able to get the right people on the phone. Friday, got home late, no chance for a ride due to time.
Saturday was unbelievable! It was in the sixties, sunny, and nary a cloud in the sky! The Cleveland Indians beat the living hell out of the Yankees too! Final score of 22-4, which is ironic. See the Cavaliers also beat the hell out of Detroit 102-84. That's right folks, both Cleveland teams won by eighteen points! Ahh life is good, well, almost. Saturday was day two of said planned ride time. While I did get out, it was a total of less than a couple miles to try out the new Ergon grips on the mountain bike, also got the derailleur to work right. So I guess all is well. I got to doing some things around the house, and next thing I know I had to run to a formal dinner... that I wanted to be at like I want someone to cut off both of my legs. Regardless, nearly seventy degrees outside, and day two shot.
Sunday, woke up. Went to church. Got out of church to a twenty or so degree drop and rain. Then got a call to go do a job. Day three, shot.
Now, Monday. 100% chance of rain, low forties. Yeah... Monday night rides in the can. No one wants to go... Don't know why. *sarcasm* Anyway, this sums up my crazy life lately. So, I've decided what it is I need to do. I need to find twelve more hours in my day. That or I need to split and divide, or clone myself, so I can accomplish all it is I need to do. Hopefully we can get the rides started next Monday. Weather is calling for rain Sunday through Friday this week. Then again, they're only showing weather through Friday... Hopefully the weekend will be nice. Oh, wait, my schedule sucks. Go figure.
OK, now to wrap a few things up. You might notice the name changed at the top. No, it's not permanent... I just did it as an homage to my buddy Bluenoser, who suggested the name in the last comment section. I liked it, a lot, and decide to throw it up as the title for a bit. I may actually keep it.
Also, check back the next few days. They should be a couple good ones. I hope to have some good news, and I will be posting a GREAT combination open letter, and beer review, for Stone Brewing. You won't want to miss this as it's, what I feel, might just be a once in a lifetime event.
Alright, that's all for now. Come back over the next few days, and enjoy.
Saturday was unbelievable! It was in the sixties, sunny, and nary a cloud in the sky! The Cleveland Indians beat the living hell out of the Yankees too! Final score of 22-4, which is ironic. See the Cavaliers also beat the hell out of Detroit 102-84. That's right folks, both Cleveland teams won by eighteen points! Ahh life is good, well, almost. Saturday was day two of said planned ride time. While I did get out, it was a total of less than a couple miles to try out the new Ergon grips on the mountain bike, also got the derailleur to work right. So I guess all is well. I got to doing some things around the house, and next thing I know I had to run to a formal dinner... that I wanted to be at like I want someone to cut off both of my legs. Regardless, nearly seventy degrees outside, and day two shot.
Sunday, woke up. Went to church. Got out of church to a twenty or so degree drop and rain. Then got a call to go do a job. Day three, shot.
Now, Monday. 100% chance of rain, low forties. Yeah... Monday night rides in the can. No one wants to go... Don't know why. *sarcasm* Anyway, this sums up my crazy life lately. So, I've decided what it is I need to do. I need to find twelve more hours in my day. That or I need to split and divide, or clone myself, so I can accomplish all it is I need to do. Hopefully we can get the rides started next Monday. Weather is calling for rain Sunday through Friday this week. Then again, they're only showing weather through Friday... Hopefully the weekend will be nice. Oh, wait, my schedule sucks. Go figure.
OK, now to wrap a few things up. You might notice the name changed at the top. No, it's not permanent... I just did it as an homage to my buddy Bluenoser, who suggested the name in the last comment section. I liked it, a lot, and decide to throw it up as the title for a bit. I may actually keep it.
Also, check back the next few days. They should be a couple good ones. I hope to have some good news, and I will be posting a GREAT combination open letter, and beer review, for Stone Brewing. You won't want to miss this as it's, what I feel, might just be a once in a lifetime event.
Alright, that's all for now. Come back over the next few days, and enjoy.
17 April 2009
Bell's Special Double Cream Stout
I'm going to end this week with another great beer review, as I have been having so many amazing beers lately. I have been enjoying home brews and craft beers a lot lately. Probably too much, truth be told. I need to watch it or it will likely hurt my training this summer for LiveStrong Challenge in Philadelphia. That, in itself, poses another problem but I'm guessing you don't want to hear me bitch about things right now.
So, back to the point of this post. Without further adieu, I will share another amazing beer, well... a review of a really amazing beer. I also encourage you to check back next week, as I will be posting a review of a great Stone treat that I enjoyed. It's a once or twice in a lifetime beer, a once in a lifetime experience, and it will be a great post. I promise that. I have always loved Stone, and this gave me all the more reason to love them.
I had the opportunity to check out another great Bell's brew. This time it was the Bell's Special Double Cream Stout. I have to admit that I'm not a huge stout guy. I went through a stout faze, but I am and have always been a hoppy beer guy. I love my IPA's and anything big hops. Not necessarily big alcohol, but complex flavor. I popped the Stout and here is what I found:
It wasn't a complex beer, in my opinion, but it was well balanced. To me, it was like having a good cup of coffee after dinner. I could see sitting down to chocolate cake with this beer, and having it compliment the dessert perfectly. This is the fourth or fifth Bell's I have in about a week, and I have to admit, Larry Bell and company are winning a special place in my heart.
So, back to the point of this post. Without further adieu, I will share another amazing beer, well... a review of a really amazing beer. I also encourage you to check back next week, as I will be posting a review of a great Stone treat that I enjoyed. It's a once or twice in a lifetime beer, a once in a lifetime experience, and it will be a great post. I promise that. I have always loved Stone, and this gave me all the more reason to love them.
I had the opportunity to check out another great Bell's brew. This time it was the Bell's Special Double Cream Stout. I have to admit that I'm not a huge stout guy. I went through a stout faze, but I am and have always been a hoppy beer guy. I love my IPA's and anything big hops. Not necessarily big alcohol, but complex flavor. I popped the Stout and here is what I found:
APPEARANCE: Dark brown, nearly black. Very Clear with a noticeably taupe head.
AROMA: A noticeable malty smell with some heavy coffee tones and an ever so slight alcohol note present.
FLAVOR: Malty, roasted, coffee flavors. Extremely smooth & rich, with just a hint of sweetness. Subtle hints of chocolate. Almost no bitterness of hops.
PALATE: Definitely a medium-bodied, extremely well balanced, very creamy mouth feel. Almost no heat (of alcohol) about it.
NOTES: I could easily make this a session beer. The beer was medium bodied, very enjoyable, and very rich. The problem? At 7.5% ABV it can’t be a session beer unless you wanted it to be a very, very early night.
It wasn't a complex beer, in my opinion, but it was well balanced. To me, it was like having a good cup of coffee after dinner. I could see sitting down to chocolate cake with this beer, and having it compliment the dessert perfectly. This is the fourth or fifth Bell's I have in about a week, and I have to admit, Larry Bell and company are winning a special place in my heart.
15 April 2009
Weekly Roundup April 15, 2009
It was a crazy, and busy, Easter week. It’s been cold lately, it’s been snowy sometimes, and it seems like it’s been raining a lot too. It just stinks right now in Cleveland. There was a salt shortage this year, or so I’m told, and they dropped cinders with the salt. Now there are cinders all over the sides of the road, so riding is a lot of fun. We’re set to start the weekly rides, hopefully this Monday, April 20th. The first set ride will be a weekly Monday ride in the Mentor, Ohio area. See this past Monday’s post for more info or if you are interested in joining in. I am going to be looking into adding a new lineup of blogs to the Weekly Roundup. I think I need to just to spice it up a bit, but my regulars will always be my regulars. I will continue adding some beer updates to the cycling, and hope you find that enjoyable. With that said, I’m going half cycling half beer this week when I give you the Weekly Roundup.
50K Loop NS: My homeboy Bluenoser is getting set for some Change. It seems like it will be a real change for the better. You may remember that B wanted to can the whole blog. That made me, and many other, sad. He’s decided to keep it going, and just change the subject matter. Now, rather than just cycling, it will be about his journey through life on the 50K Loop. I look forward to this change! Cheers!
Harp Rider: Harp seems to be doing well lately, the biggest problem he seems to have this week is Black Or White? That’s right, he’s finally building up the Felt, apparently, and his tough decision is white, or black for the seat and tape. Get over, check it out, get your vote in, and then start poking around his site.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales & Blogfish: Ahhhh, rekindling one of my favorite hobbies… Beer! What better way to rekindle the joy of drinking, and brewing, good beer than a tasting and brewing party with friends? There is no better way. One of our enjoyments for the shindig was Dogfish Head Raison D’Etre. It was a great brew that, to be honest, blurred into the tipsy oblivion of the night. I remember it being dark, rich, and having a bite of green raisin on the back sides of my tongue, but not much more. I promise to drink this again soon and leave a proper tasting note. So what could be better than that?! The Dogfish Head IPA Variety Pack! It’s an issue of Price Vs Value. I’ve only been luck enough to try the 60 and 90 Minute IPA, but now that they are available in a 12 pack with the 120 Minute IPA (Four of each), I NEED to get my hands on this. Open letter to Sam Calagione to get one out to me might just be forthcoming. Mr Calagione, you think you might have one to spare for me and my brother in brewing to do a side by side review on?
Buckeye Beer Engine: Buckey is having their Third Annual 420 HopFest April 17th-20th. In a related note to Dogfish, they will be serving Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA through Randall The Enamel Animal on Saturday and Monday at 4:00pm. They’ll also be serving everything hoppy, the kiddies receive complimentary Bling Bling cupcakes, while ladies and gentlemen receive complimentary Hop Brownies! Check out more at Buckeye Beer Engine’s website.
Yehuda Moon: Finally on a somber note, our friend Yehuda is taking a Haitus for a bit. Here’s to Rick for over a year of joy brought by Yehuda and the Kickstand Cyclery. I hope to see Yehuda again sometime down the road, but best wish to Rick, in wherever the road leads you and Yehuda.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. Hopefully the weather will cooperate for the start of the Monday night rides, just heard rain... Might just have to make due. Be back tomorrow! As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
50K Loop NS: My homeboy Bluenoser is getting set for some Change. It seems like it will be a real change for the better. You may remember that B wanted to can the whole blog. That made me, and many other, sad. He’s decided to keep it going, and just change the subject matter. Now, rather than just cycling, it will be about his journey through life on the 50K Loop. I look forward to this change! Cheers!
Harp Rider: Harp seems to be doing well lately, the biggest problem he seems to have this week is Black Or White? That’s right, he’s finally building up the Felt, apparently, and his tough decision is white, or black for the seat and tape. Get over, check it out, get your vote in, and then start poking around his site.
Dogfish Head Craft Brewed Ales & Blogfish: Ahhhh, rekindling one of my favorite hobbies… Beer! What better way to rekindle the joy of drinking, and brewing, good beer than a tasting and brewing party with friends? There is no better way. One of our enjoyments for the shindig was Dogfish Head Raison D’Etre. It was a great brew that, to be honest, blurred into the tipsy oblivion of the night. I remember it being dark, rich, and having a bite of green raisin on the back sides of my tongue, but not much more. I promise to drink this again soon and leave a proper tasting note. So what could be better than that?! The Dogfish Head IPA Variety Pack! It’s an issue of Price Vs Value. I’ve only been luck enough to try the 60 and 90 Minute IPA, but now that they are available in a 12 pack with the 120 Minute IPA (Four of each), I NEED to get my hands on this. Open letter to Sam Calagione to get one out to me might just be forthcoming. Mr Calagione, you think you might have one to spare for me and my brother in brewing to do a side by side review on?
Buckeye Beer Engine: Buckey is having their Third Annual 420 HopFest April 17th-20th. In a related note to Dogfish, they will be serving Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA through Randall The Enamel Animal on Saturday and Monday at 4:00pm. They’ll also be serving everything hoppy, the kiddies receive complimentary Bling Bling cupcakes, while ladies and gentlemen receive complimentary Hop Brownies! Check out more at Buckeye Beer Engine’s website.
Yehuda Moon: Finally on a somber note, our friend Yehuda is taking a Haitus for a bit. Here’s to Rick for over a year of joy brought by Yehuda and the Kickstand Cyclery. I hope to see Yehuda again sometime down the road, but best wish to Rick, in wherever the road leads you and Yehuda.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. Hopefully the weather will cooperate for the start of the Monday night rides, just heard rain... Might just have to make due. Be back tomorrow! As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
14 April 2009
Beer Wars
As you've no doubt noticed, I have become, once again, interested in beer. With the crappy weather we've been having in Ohio, I haven't been riding nearly as much as I'd like to, but I've been back into the beer thing. Whatever that might be; whether drinking a good beer now and then, or brewing a good beer with friends, the bug bit me again.
With that said, Thursday night will be an excellent event nationwide, which I will be attending in Cleveland. The live premier of the movie Beer Wars. While it is a beer movie, it appears to be a heck of a lot more about life. The story of David and Goliath, and the entrepreneurial spirit of this country.
I encourage you to check out the trailer, and get out and see it.
Oh, and just to get on cycling... Rides in Mentor start Monday Night!
13 April 2009
Monday Night Rides In The Cleveland Area
I'll get to the weekly rides at the end of this post, so please read it (I'll keep it quick) and you can learn more re: The weekly rides
Soon enough the weather should break, right? I've committed to starting a Monday night ride in the Lake County, Ohio area. More specifically the Mentor, Ohio area. We were going to start today, Monday April 13th, but due to a handful of things we will have to postpone until Monday April 20th. The rides will have a 5:30 pm start time. If you want in, you're welcome to ride with us. This should be interesting. The ride will probably be just either side of 15-20 miles to start, ie: day one, and gaining in length and complexity over the summer. The first few will depend on things like temperature, weather, and light conditions. I don't plan on running lights, since I don't own any, so we'll be in before the sun sets.
If you're interested in joining in, please contact me HERE and I'll fill you in on all the details. For now, have a great week, and check back tomorrow for more fun, er, phun.
Soon enough the weather should break, right? I've committed to starting a Monday night ride in the Lake County, Ohio area. More specifically the Mentor, Ohio area. We were going to start today, Monday April 13th, but due to a handful of things we will have to postpone until Monday April 20th. The rides will have a 5:30 pm start time. If you want in, you're welcome to ride with us. This should be interesting. The ride will probably be just either side of 15-20 miles to start, ie: day one, and gaining in length and complexity over the summer. The first few will depend on things like temperature, weather, and light conditions. I don't plan on running lights, since I don't own any, so we'll be in before the sun sets.
If you're interested in joining in, please contact me HERE and I'll fill you in on all the details. For now, have a great week, and check back tomorrow for more fun, er, phun.
11 April 2009
This Bit Of Weekend Phun Goes Out To Wah
Hey Jared:
Just thought you'd totally appreciate this. See The Wah Report if you don't get why.
Hope EVERYONE has a great weekend. Happy Easter!! and God Bless!
Don
10 April 2009
The Beer Chronicles: Coney Island Human Blockhead
In this episode I’ll delve into a beer that I just had to pick up. Why you ask? Because the bottle was wicked cool, and I’ve heard some decent talk about Shmaltz Brewing. Shmaltz put out a series of Coney beers. There’s Coney Island Lager, Albino Python. Sword Swallower, Freaktoberfest, and (the one I’ll review today) the Human Blockhead. 
(click that to pop bigger photo)
Shmaltz calls their Human Blockhead a “Tough as Nails Lager”, and on that note I would have to agree. But in this case I’m not sure that it’s a good thing. The beer pours a rusty red-brown color with a nice, relatively thin tan head that almost disappeared instantly. The smell on this was all alcohol. I suppose that since it’s a 10% ABV beer, this isn’t horribly shocking, but it too away from the pleasantness of malt or hops. This had me concerned from the word go.
I swirled it a bit and the head, once again, disappeared almost as quickly as it appeared. The alcohol still shown through and than I took a big sip. The first note, right out of the gate, was the alcohol. There was no two ways about it, the taste and the warmth of the alcohol came on strong. Sadly, in my humble opinion, it reminded me of college. More specifically it reminded me of drinking Steel Reserve High Gravity in college. Honestly, I almost couldn’t get past just how much it reminded of Steel, and I think it tainted my opinion from there on out.
After holding it in my mouth for a bit swallowing it confused the hell out of me. It left a hot note from the alcohol, but then there was a distinct note that I can only describe as, and think it might be, molasses. Molasses… and bread? The malt peaked it’s head in a bit, but there was that haunting molasses note, and a bitter hoppy finishing note. This, again, isn’t surprising to me as they use Warrior, Horizon, Tettnang, Palisade, Crystal, and Hallertau Hops in the beer. It actually left me a bit depressed that so many Hops gave their all for mediocrity.
Bottom line on this bad boy, I was far less than impressed. I thought that the beer had a shock value, for lack of a better term, going for it. An overly big, all over the place taste, mess. It’s left me anxious to try a couple more, non Coney Island, Shmaltz beers just for comparison in hopes of being pleasantly surprised. This, however, I’d give a two on a five scale, that’s right a “D”. I’m not willing to say it’s a total failure, I’m sure someone could appreciate how big, hot, and all over it is. I’m just not that guy.
(click that to pop bigger photo)Shmaltz calls their Human Blockhead a “Tough as Nails Lager”, and on that note I would have to agree. But in this case I’m not sure that it’s a good thing. The beer pours a rusty red-brown color with a nice, relatively thin tan head that almost disappeared instantly. The smell on this was all alcohol. I suppose that since it’s a 10% ABV beer, this isn’t horribly shocking, but it too away from the pleasantness of malt or hops. This had me concerned from the word go.
I swirled it a bit and the head, once again, disappeared almost as quickly as it appeared. The alcohol still shown through and than I took a big sip. The first note, right out of the gate, was the alcohol. There was no two ways about it, the taste and the warmth of the alcohol came on strong. Sadly, in my humble opinion, it reminded me of college. More specifically it reminded me of drinking Steel Reserve High Gravity in college. Honestly, I almost couldn’t get past just how much it reminded of Steel, and I think it tainted my opinion from there on out.
After holding it in my mouth for a bit swallowing it confused the hell out of me. It left a hot note from the alcohol, but then there was a distinct note that I can only describe as, and think it might be, molasses. Molasses… and bread? The malt peaked it’s head in a bit, but there was that haunting molasses note, and a bitter hoppy finishing note. This, again, isn’t surprising to me as they use Warrior, Horizon, Tettnang, Palisade, Crystal, and Hallertau Hops in the beer. It actually left me a bit depressed that so many Hops gave their all for mediocrity.
Bottom line on this bad boy, I was far less than impressed. I thought that the beer had a shock value, for lack of a better term, going for it. An overly big, all over the place taste, mess. It’s left me anxious to try a couple more, non Coney Island, Shmaltz beers just for comparison in hopes of being pleasantly surprised. This, however, I’d give a two on a five scale, that’s right a “D”. I’m not willing to say it’s a total failure, I’m sure someone could appreciate how big, hot, and all over it is. I’m just not that guy.
08 April 2009
Weekly Roundup April 08, 2009
Woo hoo! It’s Easter! It’s also Passover! What a great time of year. It’s a solemn time, and yet so joyous. It also means chocolate covered pretzels for me! OH! It also means that spring is here! In Cleveland this means another few inches of snow, but soon enough the sun will break, and the prime riding season will be here! As I mentioned in the previous post, we will be having some group rides. The first set ride will be a weekly Monday ride in the Mentor, Ohio area. See the previous post for more info or if you are interested in joining in. I will also be adding some beer updates to the cycling, and hope you find that enjoyable. I give you the Weekly Roundup.
Travels With My Mule: Philips blog Travels With My Mule, not to be confused with Travels With A Tin Donkey-that will come later, is a new favorite of mine. His most recent post reminds me of a time I cheated on my love, er road bike, with a mountain bike. Apparently Philip will also be taking a trip across the pond. Can’t wait to hear more from you, Philip!
50K Loop NS: It seems that Bluenoser is realizing some of the same things I am. One of these things is that the year will be over before we know it. B, like yours truly, is starting to get out and hammer. My regular rides are set to start this coming Monday, Bluenoser started this weekend with a Fog Ride. Both of us are trying to get ready for a season that I’m sure will be too short. Hey, B! How goes the weight loss? Agree we shouldn’t talk about it for a bit? Heh heh heh… Hope all is well.
Harp Rider: Harp is still plagued with rough times. He got out for a ride, in less than favorable conditions, that ended up a Good Ride Killed By Flats. I can’t imagine that there is anything much worse than having to dump a ride in the cold, windy conditions because of two flat outs. Hope you’re doing well with your Lean Look, Harp. You were in far better shape than Bluenoser and I to start. I need to get back on the weight loss horse.
Fat Cyclist: Fatty shares a great post that is all over the place. A Tin Cup, A Cake, And A Penny is a great title for this, as it is SO all over the place. Good news about Susan (his wife). Susan is not doing worse, and that is great news right now. He is reading Little House On The Prairie, which has me wondering if he is really OK. Then, there’s the riding. RAWROD coming up, and a trip to a local spot on his new favorite Gary Fisher Superfly 29! Sounds like a great ride, Fatty.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: Finally, Sprocketboy chime in with the GM And Segway Announce The Vehicle Of The Future. Two wheels never looked so dangerous! Imagine a Segway, wrapped in a roll cage, with a front and rear “wheelie wheel” to stop it from tipping. The concept seems cool, but being on the road in this thing just seems scary as hell.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. Hopefully the weather will cooperate for the start of the Monday night rides. Be back tomorrow! As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
Travels With My Mule: Philips blog Travels With My Mule, not to be confused with Travels With A Tin Donkey-that will come later, is a new favorite of mine. His most recent post reminds me of a time I cheated on my love, er road bike, with a mountain bike. Apparently Philip will also be taking a trip across the pond. Can’t wait to hear more from you, Philip!
50K Loop NS: It seems that Bluenoser is realizing some of the same things I am. One of these things is that the year will be over before we know it. B, like yours truly, is starting to get out and hammer. My regular rides are set to start this coming Monday, Bluenoser started this weekend with a Fog Ride. Both of us are trying to get ready for a season that I’m sure will be too short. Hey, B! How goes the weight loss? Agree we shouldn’t talk about it for a bit? Heh heh heh… Hope all is well.
Harp Rider: Harp is still plagued with rough times. He got out for a ride, in less than favorable conditions, that ended up a Good Ride Killed By Flats. I can’t imagine that there is anything much worse than having to dump a ride in the cold, windy conditions because of two flat outs. Hope you’re doing well with your Lean Look, Harp. You were in far better shape than Bluenoser and I to start. I need to get back on the weight loss horse.
Fat Cyclist: Fatty shares a great post that is all over the place. A Tin Cup, A Cake, And A Penny is a great title for this, as it is SO all over the place. Good news about Susan (his wife). Susan is not doing worse, and that is great news right now. He is reading Little House On The Prairie, which has me wondering if he is really OK. Then, there’s the riding. RAWROD coming up, and a trip to a local spot on his new favorite Gary Fisher Superfly 29! Sounds like a great ride, Fatty.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: Finally, Sprocketboy chime in with the GM And Segway Announce The Vehicle Of The Future. Two wheels never looked so dangerous! Imagine a Segway, wrapped in a roll cage, with a front and rear “wheelie wheel” to stop it from tipping. The concept seems cool, but being on the road in this thing just seems scary as hell.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. Hopefully the weather will cooperate for the start of the Monday night rides. Be back tomorrow! As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
06 April 2009
Rides Start Soon. Want To Be A Part Of It?
I'll get to the weekly rides at the end of this post, so please read it (I'll keep it quick) and you can learn more re: The weekly rides
Hey, all! The weekend went way too fast. I can't believe how quick it went. I feel as though I just wrote an entry on Thursday, and now the weekend is over. Ugh. I need a vacation from my life in general. Totally didn't make it out on the bike this weekend. Friday was mediocre at best. It was a bit cold, so after work I went out to dinner with a friend, and had some brews. Willoughby Brewing Blueberry Ale, again. Love the stuff so much that I think I'm going to have to review it sometime soon.
Saturday was cold and windy to beat the band. Sidebar (I haven't done a sidebar in a while): What in the heck does "to beat the band" mean, anyway? Oh well... Saturday was miserable. Worked on the bathrooms and watched Forgetting Sarah Marshall with the wife. Good movie! Funny. Made better with a growler of WBC Blueberry Ale and muscles. I love that beer.
Sunday was pretty much a wash. By the time I got out of church, we dropped off some Easter food to those in need, and then I worked some more on the bathrooms. Made dinner, ate, now it's dark... I swear! I really need a vacation from my life. Ugh.
Anyway, soon enough this should all change. A big change? Pretty soon I've committed to starting a Monday night ride in the Lake County, Ohio area. More specifically the Mentor, Ohio area. If you are interested in riding, we are thinking of a 5:30-ish start time. If you want in, you're welcome to ride with us. For now it looks like a Monday 4/13 start. The day after Easter, and the Easter dinner. This should be interesting. The ride will probably be just either side of 20 miles to start, ie: day one, and gaining in length and complexity over the summer.
If you're interested in joining in, please contact me HERE and I'll fill you in on all the details. For now, have a great week, and check back tomorrow for more fun, er, phun.
Hey, all! The weekend went way too fast. I can't believe how quick it went. I feel as though I just wrote an entry on Thursday, and now the weekend is over. Ugh. I need a vacation from my life in general. Totally didn't make it out on the bike this weekend. Friday was mediocre at best. It was a bit cold, so after work I went out to dinner with a friend, and had some brews. Willoughby Brewing Blueberry Ale, again. Love the stuff so much that I think I'm going to have to review it sometime soon.
Saturday was cold and windy to beat the band. Sidebar (I haven't done a sidebar in a while): What in the heck does "to beat the band" mean, anyway? Oh well... Saturday was miserable. Worked on the bathrooms and watched Forgetting Sarah Marshall with the wife. Good movie! Funny. Made better with a growler of WBC Blueberry Ale and muscles. I love that beer.
Sunday was pretty much a wash. By the time I got out of church, we dropped off some Easter food to those in need, and then I worked some more on the bathrooms. Made dinner, ate, now it's dark... I swear! I really need a vacation from my life. Ugh.
Anyway, soon enough this should all change. A big change? Pretty soon I've committed to starting a Monday night ride in the Lake County, Ohio area. More specifically the Mentor, Ohio area. If you are interested in riding, we are thinking of a 5:30-ish start time. If you want in, you're welcome to ride with us. For now it looks like a Monday 4/13 start. The day after Easter, and the Easter dinner. This should be interesting. The ride will probably be just either side of 20 miles to start, ie: day one, and gaining in length and complexity over the summer.
If you're interested in joining in, please contact me HERE and I'll fill you in on all the details. For now, have a great week, and check back tomorrow for more fun, er, phun.
02 April 2009
Weekly Roundup April 02, 2009
Wow, I simply cannot believe that It’s been three whole weeks since the last Weekly roundup. I apologize for the slightly lackluster performance lately, but life has got in the way. I will still update regularly, but there may be a one or two day lapse. I will also be adding some beer updates to the cycling, and hope you find that enjoyable. I give you the Weekly Roundup.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser is thinking about all the people trying to make a comeback and it got him to thinking, which got him to post a quickie about the kings of all Dopers. Yup, the infamous Cheech And Chong! Great little ditty, Blue, but we need to get back on the training don’t we?
Harp Rider: Harp seems to be having a rough go with 2 Out Of 3 races getting postponed. Ahh, the joys of winter, or spring (?!), weather! He did, however, get in a Kind Of Ride which, when combined with his March 31st ride, seemed like a good time. Also very glad to hear the wife is doing well! Prayers for a quick recovery Mrs Harp!
Fat Cyclist: Fatty shocks the world by admitting that his Superfly Single 29” is NOT his favorite bike! So what IS his Favorite Bike Ever? Nope, not that easy… you’ll have to read for yourself!
Bunny Hop Rockstar: One of my two shouts to Cleveland this week. John, over at Bunny Hop Rockstar, sums up what living in Cleveland is like. In one of the most eloquent posts I think I’ve ever read, John compares Bike Racing And The Rust Belt. So how is living in Cleveland like the pain of racing? Check it out for yourself.
Fat Head’s Brewery: Finally, in keeping with the beer theme, North Olmsted will be getting a new brewery. One that I cannot wait to try. Matt Cole, formerly the brewer at Rocky River and now one of the owners in the Cleveland Fat Head’s, will be opening Fat Head’s Brewery on Tuesday April 7, at 11:00 am. You can find out more about them on their Fat Head’s Brewery Facebook page. Best of luck to Matt, he’s always made some insanely good beers, can’t wait to see the new place.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. I promise to be more on top of things! As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser is thinking about all the people trying to make a comeback and it got him to thinking, which got him to post a quickie about the kings of all Dopers. Yup, the infamous Cheech And Chong! Great little ditty, Blue, but we need to get back on the training don’t we?
Harp Rider: Harp seems to be having a rough go with 2 Out Of 3 races getting postponed. Ahh, the joys of winter, or spring (?!), weather! He did, however, get in a Kind Of Ride which, when combined with his March 31st ride, seemed like a good time. Also very glad to hear the wife is doing well! Prayers for a quick recovery Mrs Harp!
Fat Cyclist: Fatty shocks the world by admitting that his Superfly Single 29” is NOT his favorite bike! So what IS his Favorite Bike Ever? Nope, not that easy… you’ll have to read for yourself!
Bunny Hop Rockstar: One of my two shouts to Cleveland this week. John, over at Bunny Hop Rockstar, sums up what living in Cleveland is like. In one of the most eloquent posts I think I’ve ever read, John compares Bike Racing And The Rust Belt. So how is living in Cleveland like the pain of racing? Check it out for yourself.
Fat Head’s Brewery: Finally, in keeping with the beer theme, North Olmsted will be getting a new brewery. One that I cannot wait to try. Matt Cole, formerly the brewer at Rocky River and now one of the owners in the Cleveland Fat Head’s, will be opening Fat Head’s Brewery on Tuesday April 7, at 11:00 am. You can find out more about them on their Fat Head’s Brewery Facebook page. Best of luck to Matt, he’s always made some insanely good beers, can’t wait to see the new place.
Well, that’s all I got’s for this week. I promise to be more on top of things! As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
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