This week has no real rhyme or reason to it. Its just going to be a fun journey around the blogs that have been keeping me from getting my work done as I should. Its great to see the changes I talked about last week, remember? Once spring hits and everyone is getting out for more regular rides, the blogs start to get all fired up. With that friends; The Weekly Roundup!
Bike Munkey: This couldn’t be more appropriate. You may remember that I posted another “Freakin’ Cars” post on my weekend riding and idiots who drive poorly around cyclists. Apparently I wasn’t the only one, Left Hook is Bike Munky’s story of a bugger of a ride.
Harp Rider: While Bike Munky was out dodging cars, Harp was stuck inside due to inclement weather. Luckily for Harp he had, and shares, the answer to having to pound a ride out on the trainer. His recommendation? It comes in Feeling Good and it’s the movie Off Road To Athens.
Cozy Beehive: Ron shares a problem that arose in a race this weekend, and it’s a problem we could all learn from. Nokon Brake Cable Failure shows off the issue that Ron had with his front cable snapping, why it happened, and how to prevent it from happening to you. A must read before you go out for a quick hilly spin.
Fat Cyclist: Fatty spent the weekend with his crew doing the annual RAWROD (Ride Around White Rim in One Day). 2008 RAWROD: Take It Easy is the journey from start to finish of the guys riding White Rim this weekend. Fatty took it easy and has a whole new perspective, rave reviews, and crazy beautiful pictures from the journey to show off. Glad to hear you guys enjoyed it, next time would you please send a beer brat?
Bike Snob NYC: This week I’ll leave off with some humor from Bike Snob. Mused And Confused: Pondering The Nature Of Cycling is a great look at what cycling truly is, what makes a cyclist a cyclist, and (of course) it’s entwined in the humor of the Bike Snob. Apparently my boy Wah also was on top of his latest cycling mustache coolness factor as well with 2008 Cross Season, beating BSNYC to the punch a bit on the now infamous Dave Zabriskie moustache.
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the beautiful spring weather, get out there an ride already! And, as usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
30 April 2008
29 April 2008
Yet Another Unhealthy Addiction
Those of you who are regular readers might remember a story I posted back in November called Cycling, Food, Candy, Repeat. Wherein I expressed my love for all things in their perfectly sugary goodness state. I have recently read one of the latest blogs from Fat Cyclist called I like candy, and it prompted me to follow up on a new addiction I have. I accidentally came upon this while out running an office supply run at the local discount warehouse from hell! store. I saw them and almost cried at the idea. You see, I am someone who grew up with Cherry Cordials. My mother was a huge fan of them, and once I was old enough to walk to the corner drug store I got her a box of them every year for Mothers Day. I've got progressively cooler things as age and money would allow, but getting cherry cordials is a tradition I continue to the present, and she totally digs it. So I've always had a special place in my heart for chocolate and cherry. This explains why when I saw them, I almost cried. What is this epiphany of the confectionary world you ask? 
That's right, the Limited Edition Wild Cherry M&M's. They're no Reese's, no Peanut Butter M&M, but they are an amazing taste sensation. Thank you M&M/Mars, I will always love you.
That's right, the Limited Edition Wild Cherry M&M's. They're no Reese's, no Peanut Butter M&M, but they are an amazing taste sensation. Thank you M&M/Mars, I will always love you.28 April 2008
Freakin' Cars Redux: Again, Really?
Yup, it's time for another in the installment of Freakin' Cars. "Why?" you might ask, and I'd be glad that you did. So I had a ridiculously busy weekend and thus an unfortunately limited amount of time to ride. So I did what I think any logical cyclist would do. I figured out what errands I could run by bike and went out to be productive. I decided I could take some of the trails into town, and get some things done. Once I got a couple things done I'd then be able to ride some streets in town and hit some trails on the way back.
So I set out to do the errands, got them done and started some urban assault on the roads on my mountain bike. Like I always do, had the jersey on, the MTB shorts, helmet and I was cruising around the roads. Same -ahem- stuff different day. The post winter pot-holes (you need to live in a cold weather city with plows and salt to appreciate this), the people who don't think it's obligatory to chain up their dogs, and basic overall people who aren't paying attention to the fact that they're in a one and a half ton proverbial bullet. I'm used to these things, they happen, most of the time people feel bad for them when they do, often you get an apologetic wave or something. On the other hand, you have people who I will just call clown shoes. You know them, you hate them. The person who feels it necessary to get as close as they can and lean out of the car window yelling sh__ at you. I want to take one moment here to point a few things out if you are one of these people and you just accidentally wound up here.
OK first off, incase you haven't noticed by the dazed look you get when you do this, not only could we not hear what the hell you said, we just don't care. Along similar lines, we just don't think it's funny. Second, while grazing a cyclist is a riot to do (it may not look like we enjoy it as we give the one finger salute, but we enjoy the training you're giving us on how to dodge a Dodge... OK, that was sarcastic), you're going to kill someone, and it's still a chargeable offense. Third, what you might not realize about cyclists, we are vigilant for you types. We have to be alert to hear cars around us, and hence are attentive to our surroundings. That is to say the first thing on our mind in most cases when there is something that arises on the road is "license plate" as a first reaction to everything. I just thought you'd like the heads-up on that.
I mean, seriously, I could go on and on, but I don't think I should have to. Just click one of the other blogs on the sidebar and look hard enough and I'm sure each of them would likely have a similar story somewhere on them about these types of instances. With gas costing what it does there are already far more cyclist on the road, and people in car are going to have to adapt. All we ask is that you put down the phone, news paper, coffee, whatever and pay the hell attention to what's going on in front of you. Hell, think of it this way, one of us could be your (future) kid coming home from his friends house. How do you like that visual, your kid getting creamed by a Lexus SUV?
Bottom Line: Cyclists don't want special treatment, we just want to be able to share the road and not worry that we won't be going home to our families that evening.
So I set out to do the errands, got them done and started some urban assault on the roads on my mountain bike. Like I always do, had the jersey on, the MTB shorts, helmet and I was cruising around the roads. Same -ahem- stuff different day. The post winter pot-holes (you need to live in a cold weather city with plows and salt to appreciate this), the people who don't think it's obligatory to chain up their dogs, and basic overall people who aren't paying attention to the fact that they're in a one and a half ton proverbial bullet. I'm used to these things, they happen, most of the time people feel bad for them when they do, often you get an apologetic wave or something. On the other hand, you have people who I will just call clown shoes. You know them, you hate them. The person who feels it necessary to get as close as they can and lean out of the car window yelling sh__ at you. I want to take one moment here to point a few things out if you are one of these people and you just accidentally wound up here.
OK first off, incase you haven't noticed by the dazed look you get when you do this, not only could we not hear what the hell you said, we just don't care. Along similar lines, we just don't think it's funny. Second, while grazing a cyclist is a riot to do (it may not look like we enjoy it as we give the one finger salute, but we enjoy the training you're giving us on how to dodge a Dodge... OK, that was sarcastic), you're going to kill someone, and it's still a chargeable offense. Third, what you might not realize about cyclists, we are vigilant for you types. We have to be alert to hear cars around us, and hence are attentive to our surroundings. That is to say the first thing on our mind in most cases when there is something that arises on the road is "license plate" as a first reaction to everything. I just thought you'd like the heads-up on that.
I mean, seriously, I could go on and on, but I don't think I should have to. Just click one of the other blogs on the sidebar and look hard enough and I'm sure each of them would likely have a similar story somewhere on them about these types of instances. With gas costing what it does there are already far more cyclist on the road, and people in car are going to have to adapt. All we ask is that you put down the phone, news paper, coffee, whatever and pay the hell attention to what's going on in front of you. Hell, think of it this way, one of us could be your (future) kid coming home from his friends house. How do you like that visual, your kid getting creamed by a Lexus SUV?
Bottom Line: Cyclists don't want special treatment, we just want to be able to share the road and not worry that we won't be going home to our families that evening.
25 April 2008
Mountain Biking Observations: Do Roadies Really Hate Us?
So, I am coming to more and more conclusions about mountain biking vs road biking. Last week I shared the reason I will no longer carry protein bars with me, this week? This week I will share a new hatred for road cyclists. I say this partly as a smartass and partly because I am a bitter jerk. Those of you who know me, the wop that I am, know that I have a long fuse. A long but very, very… very quick fuse. As a matter of fact it burns in the time it takes an average person go from start to finish on a sneeze. Yes, that quick.
Digressing, I’m out the other day, sort of pissed off to begin with, plugging along pretty hard feeling good, putting my aggression into the ride when it happens: I’m going from trail to trail across a road, I see a group of roadies flying by and do a nice little track stand on the pavement to let them pass, and just then one of the guys at the back (you know as in the slow guys in the pack) looks at me in his kit (that I’m guessing was bought not earned, again back of the pack) and scoffs at me as he passes. Now, let me clarify by saying I’m not the speed racer of cycling, never claimed to be but I also specifically don’t own team gear for that reason.
To get to the point, I think I may have made a discovery. It seems “serious” roadies want nothing to do with mountain guys. Is this true? If so, will I have to become self loathing? Will I have to taunt myself in the mirror? It’s going to be a long, weird summer, isn’t it?
Digressing, I’m out the other day, sort of pissed off to begin with, plugging along pretty hard feeling good, putting my aggression into the ride when it happens: I’m going from trail to trail across a road, I see a group of roadies flying by and do a nice little track stand on the pavement to let them pass, and just then one of the guys at the back (you know as in the slow guys in the pack) looks at me in his kit (that I’m guessing was bought not earned, again back of the pack) and scoffs at me as he passes. Now, let me clarify by saying I’m not the speed racer of cycling, never claimed to be but I also specifically don’t own team gear for that reason.
To get to the point, I think I may have made a discovery. It seems “serious” roadies want nothing to do with mountain guys. Is this true? If so, will I have to become self loathing? Will I have to taunt myself in the mirror? It’s going to be a long, weird summer, isn’t it?
24 April 2008
Really... Im Totally Torn On This One
I just don't know how to feel on this one. I mean, part of me was just waiting for a car door to open. Ya know, they're pounding it out at about twenty, twenty-five miles per hour and BOOM! into the inside door armrest of a late model sedan. This tiny sick part of me was a bit disappointed when it didn't happen. That, my friends, would be the really sick twisted side of me. Fortunately for myself, and more important my wife, I have this gooey mushy side as well. That warm mushy side that thought: Hmmmm, you know... These guys are blowing by a metric crap-ton of cars all but parked on an LA freeway. My question is simple. Who is the idiot? I mean seriously, can you imagine if 10%, thats one in ten, or those people sitting stopped on the freeway were on a bike what a difference it would make? Sure it might seem minimal, but think or the crap they pump into the air, and further, if there are thousands of cars on the freeway, that would mean there would be hundreds fewer! In LA, I'd say there's, what, TENS of thousands? That would mean thousands few cars just in LA. Maybe these guys have a seriously profound point to be made.
23 April 2008
Weekly Roundup April 23
I have to admit I’ve really been all about riding again and, in turn, I’ve been equally into writing a blog. It kind of goes hand in hand, when you ride you have things to write about, when you don’t ride you feel like life sucks and POOF nothing to write about. With that friends; The Weekly Roundup!
Bike Munkey: This is a newer blog for my list, but I really enjoy reading it. This week Munkey shares the embarrassment of his ‘cyclist shuffle’ with us in Oh Bugger. All of us have been there, all of us have done it, if you say you haven’t? Well, you’re lying! That point where you try to/thought you’ve unclipped from your pedal, but to your amazement you’re NOT unclipped at all, and what results is pure chaos… Pure chaos that makes for a hilarious read.
Harp Rider: Harp gives us one that really speaks on what this time of year is about. Sunday Riding is a great little story (and accompanying video) of one of his Sunday training rides. It’s on everyone’s mind, and everyone is getting out and getting more serious about their riding, perfect example Harp.
Cozy Beehive: Ray takes us around the world this week in an insanely cool post: Japanese Automated Bicycle Parking System. As most might know, Japan has a huge amount of bicycles traveling their roadways, this makes parking them a bear, but they’ve go it all figured out. Their solution is sick, you have to check this one out.
Miles And Madness: Throwing a little love to Judi for bagging on her and her triathlete affliction, er, hobby. In this particular post she writes about something I want, in time, to try, and that… Track Racing. I just think it would be something ridiculously cool to try and something I could add to my list of things that I’ve done in my lifetime.
Fat Cyclist: Fatty is realizing, now, that the big races for his year are just around the corner. Desperate Measures is this realization, and what he is going to do to make sure he’s ready. Best of luck to you, Fatty, let me know how the laxatives go.
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the beautiful spring weather, get out there an ride already! And, as usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
Bike Munkey: This is a newer blog for my list, but I really enjoy reading it. This week Munkey shares the embarrassment of his ‘cyclist shuffle’ with us in Oh Bugger. All of us have been there, all of us have done it, if you say you haven’t? Well, you’re lying! That point where you try to/thought you’ve unclipped from your pedal, but to your amazement you’re NOT unclipped at all, and what results is pure chaos… Pure chaos that makes for a hilarious read.
Harp Rider: Harp gives us one that really speaks on what this time of year is about. Sunday Riding is a great little story (and accompanying video) of one of his Sunday training rides. It’s on everyone’s mind, and everyone is getting out and getting more serious about their riding, perfect example Harp.
Cozy Beehive: Ray takes us around the world this week in an insanely cool post: Japanese Automated Bicycle Parking System. As most might know, Japan has a huge amount of bicycles traveling their roadways, this makes parking them a bear, but they’ve go it all figured out. Their solution is sick, you have to check this one out.
Miles And Madness: Throwing a little love to Judi for bagging on her and her triathlete affliction, er, hobby. In this particular post she writes about something I want, in time, to try, and that… Track Racing. I just think it would be something ridiculously cool to try and something I could add to my list of things that I’ve done in my lifetime.
Fat Cyclist: Fatty is realizing, now, that the big races for his year are just around the corner. Desperate Measures is this realization, and what he is going to do to make sure he’s ready. Best of luck to you, Fatty, let me know how the laxatives go.
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the beautiful spring weather, get out there an ride already! And, as usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
22 April 2008
Olympic Cycling: GRAB IT!
OK, so I have to say that I needed to start with the false enthusiasm to start myself off. I originally wanted to do a quick thought on the Olympics and cycling, and the more I thought about it the more I was just like, "ehhhhh". So with that said: is it just me? Does anyone give a damn about the Olympic Games anymore? What happened to the times, like, when I was a kid? When for months everyone stayed in watching the TV 24/7 while the Olympics were on? What has seemingly ruined it? It's like a bit of my childhood was just crushed.
With that said, the breakdown is looking like this:
Road:
Sat 08/08 11:00-17:00
Sun 08/09 14:00-17:30
Wed 08/13 11:30-13:00/13:30-17:30
MTB:
Fri 08/22 15:00-17:00
Sat 08/23 15:00-17:30
Track:
Fri 08/15 16:30-19:00
Sat 08/16 16:30-19:53
Sun 08/17 10:00-11:45/16:30-18:45
Mon 08/18 16:30-19:00
Tue 08/19 16:30-19:50
BMX:
Wed 08/20 09:00-11:40
Thr 08/21 09:00-11:40
This info is from the Official Beijing Olympics Site, so I am assuming the times are all Beijing standard or some crazy shhhtuff like that. Also, PLEASE NOTE: There is triathlon, but I left Tri out on purpose as it not not really cycling. (*The last comment made was for the benefit of Judi, I said it just to get her ticked off and force her into a comment. By the way, if you didn't see it check out Miles And Madness I do believe Judi could kick my ass!)
So, anyone? Any thoughts on the Olympics this year?
With that said, the breakdown is looking like this:
Road:
Sat 08/08 11:00-17:00
Sun 08/09 14:00-17:30
Wed 08/13 11:30-13:00/13:30-17:30
MTB:
Fri 08/22 15:00-17:00
Sat 08/23 15:00-17:30
Track:
Fri 08/15 16:30-19:00
Sat 08/16 16:30-19:53
Sun 08/17 10:00-11:45/16:30-18:45
Mon 08/18 16:30-19:00
Tue 08/19 16:30-19:50
BMX:
Wed 08/20 09:00-11:40
Thr 08/21 09:00-11:40
This info is from the Official Beijing Olympics Site, so I am assuming the times are all Beijing standard or some crazy shhhtuff like that. Also, PLEASE NOTE: There is triathlon, but I left Tri out on purpose as it not not really cycling. (*The last comment made was for the benefit of Judi, I said it just to get her ticked off and force her into a comment. By the way, if you didn't see it check out Miles And Madness I do believe Judi could kick my ass!)
So, anyone? Any thoughts on the Olympics this year?
21 April 2008
Mountain Biking And The Weekend
So three of three days, counting Friday, I got out on the bike. Friday I went partly for distance and partly for hills. I took a route with one hill that is just, and will likely be for a while, the bane of my existence. But it went a lot better than I thought it would. I did make it a little better than half way up said hill, and actually felt pretty good, not like the first few times of getting half way and wanting to die. Mind you, it's not even that great of a hill, I'm just that out of freaking shape right now.
Saturday was short, but quality. It was rain all afternoon, which in and of itself isn't a big deal it's just to say, it meant theat there were no people walking, no annoying dogs, and most "normal" people who would bike stayed in. I had the trails to myself and even though I spent only about an hour, but it was all spent on getting up hills. Hills that I was in the middle ring, and winded at the end, I found myself getting up in the big ring, and was actually really psyched and ready for more each time. I came to the realization that all of the short jaunts, and even getting out if only for a few minutes really does add up.
Sunday was a nice few hours just getting out and riding. I didn't think too much about it. No "OK, so distance or hills riding" thoughts. I just got on and pedaled, and I rode far, on hills, wasn't winded, just enjoyed it. It wasn't like work, it was just nice and fun.
So, It's Sunday night and I sit here typing this. I'm spent, I'm sore and yet I'm exhilarated and wishing it were still light. My knees kill, my calves are on fire, and I couldn't be happier. Now I just can't wait to see what effect all this trail riding has on my road rides this summer.
Saturday was short, but quality. It was rain all afternoon, which in and of itself isn't a big deal it's just to say, it meant theat there were no people walking, no annoying dogs, and most "normal" people who would bike stayed in. I had the trails to myself and even though I spent only about an hour, but it was all spent on getting up hills. Hills that I was in the middle ring, and winded at the end, I found myself getting up in the big ring, and was actually really psyched and ready for more each time. I came to the realization that all of the short jaunts, and even getting out if only for a few minutes really does add up.
Sunday was a nice few hours just getting out and riding. I didn't think too much about it. No "OK, so distance or hills riding" thoughts. I just got on and pedaled, and I rode far, on hills, wasn't winded, just enjoyed it. It wasn't like work, it was just nice and fun.
So, It's Sunday night and I sit here typing this. I'm spent, I'm sore and yet I'm exhilarated and wishing it were still light. My knees kill, my calves are on fire, and I couldn't be happier. Now I just can't wait to see what effect all this trail riding has on my road rides this summer.
18 April 2008
Mountain Biking Observations: No Need To Eat Protein Bars
As I am riding in the woods, I am going to start a group of posts to enable me to point out some observations. This is the first of said posts.
I am learning subtle things very quickly whilst I ride in the woods, one of those things took a little longer to learn than most. It took a while because there was still snow on the ground for the first couple of handfuls of rides, and sub freezing weather. Now that it's getting warm I am finding something out that is very interesting. For those of you who are not blessed to live by a large body of water, as I do near Lake Erie, let me explain something to you. It is something called the Midge.
For those of you not cursed to have the midge Id like to point a few things out. The first you can probably guess, and that is; Yes, they are completely harmless... AND extremely annoying. Two, the annoying part is because there is never fewer than 4,365,212 (give or take a few) midges in any one square foot area, and they are NEVER alone.
It is for this reason that I believe there is no reason, whatsoever, to carry a protein bar with you. It will just add weight and bulk, and you will get sixty times the protein (again, give or take) and arguably less fat in the number of these little guys you'll eat. That's not even the half of it once you start adding in mosquitos, gnats, and other various flying insects. Please allow me to be clear, I'm not complaining, I'm just making a point here.
Stay tuned in the coming weeks, and I will share more Mountain Biking Observations with you.
I am learning subtle things very quickly whilst I ride in the woods, one of those things took a little longer to learn than most. It took a while because there was still snow on the ground for the first couple of handfuls of rides, and sub freezing weather. Now that it's getting warm I am finding something out that is very interesting. For those of you who are not blessed to live by a large body of water, as I do near Lake Erie, let me explain something to you. It is something called the Midge.
For those of you not cursed to have the midge Id like to point a few things out. The first you can probably guess, and that is; Yes, they are completely harmless... AND extremely annoying. Two, the annoying part is because there is never fewer than 4,365,212 (give or take a few) midges in any one square foot area, and they are NEVER alone.
It is for this reason that I believe there is no reason, whatsoever, to carry a protein bar with you. It will just add weight and bulk, and you will get sixty times the protein (again, give or take) and arguably less fat in the number of these little guys you'll eat. That's not even the half of it once you start adding in mosquitos, gnats, and other various flying insects. Please allow me to be clear, I'm not complaining, I'm just making a point here.
Stay tuned in the coming weeks, and I will share more Mountain Biking Observations with you.
17 April 2008
Understanding Your Cyclist: Tools Of The Trade
There’s something that is complicated that I am going to try to explain to you. You see, it’s my opinion that cyclists kind of get a bum deal. So often our friends and spouses just don’t get our addiction, er, hobby. Let me put it in layman’s terms: you wouldn’t expect that a golfer would tee off with a putter, or chip out of a sand trap with a wood, would you? See this parallels a vital part of understanding the cyclist.
There are many different bikes, for all kinds of riding. Most children start with a BMX, great for street, freestyle, dirt, and ramp riding. Some adults keep up with the BMX while others move on. Those who move on have to decide what they are going to do. If you choose to ride for fun or just light riding for errands or exercise you might choose something simple like a comfort bike. (Please note: Under NO circumstances do I condone a recumbent bike… EVER) For those who chose to get more serious there are road bikes, for fast intense road riding. If you’re not into the whole road scene or if you want more of a challenge there’s always mountain bikes. Mountain bikes are great for trail riding and such, but not always the optimal choice for riding on the road. A pretty close hybrid of road and mountain is the cross bike. Now the cross bike is not as intense as the mountain bike, thinner tires, a similar frame to a standard road bike, no shocks, etc. Therefore a cross bike is not made for quite the same amount of abuse. There’s downhill, think of this as a mountain bike that did steroids, HGH, blood doping, protein shakes, and maybe a wee bit of crack. This has more suspension than the average car and tires so wide they’d almost fit on a car. There’s track bikes, fixies, single speeds, tandems, the list goes on and on. So I ask you: For the serious cyclist, how could they be expected to only have ONE bike? Especially when you ride in dry weather, rainy weather, snow, hot, cold, and on and on and on… You wouldn’t expect a golfer to hit the links with only one club, so why would you expect your cyclist to only have one machine?
There are many different bikes, for all kinds of riding. Most children start with a BMX, great for street, freestyle, dirt, and ramp riding. Some adults keep up with the BMX while others move on. Those who move on have to decide what they are going to do. If you choose to ride for fun or just light riding for errands or exercise you might choose something simple like a comfort bike. (Please note: Under NO circumstances do I condone a recumbent bike… EVER) For those who chose to get more serious there are road bikes, for fast intense road riding. If you’re not into the whole road scene or if you want more of a challenge there’s always mountain bikes. Mountain bikes are great for trail riding and such, but not always the optimal choice for riding on the road. A pretty close hybrid of road and mountain is the cross bike. Now the cross bike is not as intense as the mountain bike, thinner tires, a similar frame to a standard road bike, no shocks, etc. Therefore a cross bike is not made for quite the same amount of abuse. There’s downhill, think of this as a mountain bike that did steroids, HGH, blood doping, protein shakes, and maybe a wee bit of crack. This has more suspension than the average car and tires so wide they’d almost fit on a car. There’s track bikes, fixies, single speeds, tandems, the list goes on and on. So I ask you: For the serious cyclist, how could they be expected to only have ONE bike? Especially when you ride in dry weather, rainy weather, snow, hot, cold, and on and on and on… You wouldn’t expect a golfer to hit the links with only one club, so why would you expect your cyclist to only have one machine?
16 April 2008
Weekly Roundup April 16
I’m really loving being able to ride when I want where I want. I’m beginning to see having two bikes like a set of golf clubs. There are huge advantages to having multiple bikes. Conditions, just to switch things up, and so forth. It’s the same way with blogs. With that friends; The Weekly Roundup!
Bike Munkey: This is a new one for me, but I really enjoy reading it. It’s kind of the fun yet good utilitarian blog. Stories of his riding like Crime And Punishment, or product reviews like Gear Review it’s just a good time.
Training/Products
Harp Rider: My boy Harp put out the funny this week in Kinda Dry Singletrack. A quick video of him running a singletrack, one that could cause seizures while watching if your not careful. I only kid `cause I like your blog Harp. Seriously though, when your done checking it out check out the rest of the blog.
Autobiographical
Cozy Beehive: As always, Ron delves into the world of cycling engineering with the post BH G4 Broken Fork. The more I read Rays stuff, the more I really want to get into engineering.
Informative
Fat Cyclist: This is a weird blog. One day I’m laughing so hard that people at work think I’m on drugs, the next day I’m trying my harder than hell not to cry. This weeks stand out humor post was Infernal Racket. You’ve all been there, you’re out for a ride and it hits! A sound, but you don’t know what the sound is or where it’s coming from. What was Fatty’s? You’ll have to read.
The Wah Report: Been too long since I’ve given Jared some love, apologies man! The one that had me rolling at work today was Now That I’m Back In MN… I’m Looking For Some Bros To Hang Out With. Sure, it’s just a repost of a couple a videos, but they’re Damn Funny videos! Jared’s blog is pretty darn quality, and ranges from funny to family to blog related to cycling news to personal cycling and everywhere and everything in between. Love it Jared!
Heart Wrenching/Monotonously Funny
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the beautiful spring weather. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
Bike Munkey: This is a new one for me, but I really enjoy reading it. It’s kind of the fun yet good utilitarian blog. Stories of his riding like Crime And Punishment, or product reviews like Gear Review it’s just a good time.
Training/Products
Harp Rider: My boy Harp put out the funny this week in Kinda Dry Singletrack. A quick video of him running a singletrack, one that could cause seizures while watching if your not careful. I only kid `cause I like your blog Harp. Seriously though, when your done checking it out check out the rest of the blog.
Autobiographical
Cozy Beehive: As always, Ron delves into the world of cycling engineering with the post BH G4 Broken Fork. The more I read Rays stuff, the more I really want to get into engineering.
Informative
Fat Cyclist: This is a weird blog. One day I’m laughing so hard that people at work think I’m on drugs, the next day I’m trying my harder than hell not to cry. This weeks stand out humor post was Infernal Racket. You’ve all been there, you’re out for a ride and it hits! A sound, but you don’t know what the sound is or where it’s coming from. What was Fatty’s? You’ll have to read.
The Wah Report: Been too long since I’ve given Jared some love, apologies man! The one that had me rolling at work today was Now That I’m Back In MN… I’m Looking For Some Bros To Hang Out With. Sure, it’s just a repost of a couple a videos, but they’re Damn Funny videos! Jared’s blog is pretty darn quality, and ranges from funny to family to blog related to cycling news to personal cycling and everywhere and everything in between. Love it Jared!
Heart Wrenching/Monotonously Funny
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the beautiful spring weather. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
15 April 2008
Pedals
Hello, all. As I mentioned yesterday, I had a fairly good weekend. Got two days outside on the MTB, enjoyed myself, yet again, but I am a little anxious to get back on the road as well. I am trying to hold out for Spin Bike Shop to start up their Wednesday night rides before getting on the road machine. Anyway, I was out this weekend and as I am riding I realized something. Right now I'm just rocking the factory Specialized platforms that were on the cranks when I bought the bike. I wanted to try out flats for a bit to decide if I just wanted to sink money into better flat pedals, or if I want to do ye olde clipless or something.
So bottom line is I think I'm trying to ask opinions. Do I want to rock out flat pedals on the MTB, or should I look into clipless and shoes? I realize from being clipped in on the road bike that it feels different to pedal, but can't decide how much of that is the road vs mountain, or how much of it is equipment. I know someone, at least John, probably has some good advice for me.
So bottom line is I think I'm trying to ask opinions. Do I want to rock out flat pedals on the MTB, or should I look into clipless and shoes? I realize from being clipped in on the road bike that it feels different to pedal, but can't decide how much of that is the road vs mountain, or how much of it is equipment. I know someone, at least John, probably has some good advice for me.
14 April 2008
Cleaning Hills For Fun And Profit... Well For Fun Anyway
Ever notice how pain just feels good sometimes? I spent a while Sunday, cold, snow, and all, working on some hills. I know that the first thing I need to get a handle on this year is hills. Last year I was happy by year end at how my riding was, but my hill riding sucked... the big one... twice. Anyway, I know that it's something I need to remedy sooner than not this year if I want to ride worth a crap. I spent a good portion of the ride today in the big ring, and was climbing in the middle, thirteen to get specific. It may not seem like a big deal, but a month ago I spent most of the time in the middle and climbed small. I will say, the hills aren't crazy big, and I'll probably have to climb the crazy big ones in small, but it's a start.
Another thing I like is the fact that I haven't jumped out on the road yet, I think the work in the woods now, will mean payday when I do finally get on the road. I know the little bits of road riding on the MTB from home to trail or one trail to the next is just a blast. Little to no real effort extended. I can't wait to see what happens when I'm on a bike that was built and geared for road riding. I'm optimistic that this season will kick some serious ass this in comparison to last.
Also, incase you missed it; Big Tom Boonen beat out Fabian Cancellara and Alessandro Ballan on the Roubaix velodrome to win his second Roubaix since his last win in 2005. Oh, and apparently You can buy wheels like Cippo, if you give a damn about them, him, whatever. That ordeal just seems like a media circus.
Another thing I like is the fact that I haven't jumped out on the road yet, I think the work in the woods now, will mean payday when I do finally get on the road. I know the little bits of road riding on the MTB from home to trail or one trail to the next is just a blast. Little to no real effort extended. I can't wait to see what happens when I'm on a bike that was built and geared for road riding. I'm optimistic that this season will kick some serious ass this in comparison to last.
Also, incase you missed it; Big Tom Boonen beat out Fabian Cancellara and Alessandro Ballan on the Roubaix velodrome to win his second Roubaix since his last win in 2005. Oh, and apparently You can buy wheels like Cippo, if you give a damn about them, him, whatever. That ordeal just seems like a media circus.
11 April 2008
The Joys Of Spring
I have come to a new appreciation of spring. This appreciation comes from the recent acquisition of my spiffy new mountain bike. 
John, from here on referred to as "the man", from the LSB, Local Bike Shop for any newbs, got me a sick, in my mind, hook up on an `07 Specialized Rockhopper Disc, and the wife "got it for me" for the birthday, read that as I acquired it and alerted her that it was going to be her present for me, if you are married you know what I mean.
Sorry, what I was getting to is having the opportunity to ride, virtually, every single day in the last week. There's something about bombing down a hill a foot away from sheer disaster, looking down into a river, or down a hill into the woods, switchbacks, its just beautiful. I'll start taking pictures and posting occasionally. We've had some rain lately, and I've enjoyed coming in covered in mud and hurting. I've already managed to clean one of the hills I set as a goal, not a horribly big one. It's fairly steep, very loose and rocky, and part of a ninety or so degree turn. It amounts to a really good learning about the difference between mountain and road. The difference between bearing down and taking of like a shot and bearing down and having your wheels lose their footing in the dirt, or having your back end jumping around when you hit a patch of rock. It's just a whole new exhilarating experience. I don't think I'm ready to sell the road bike, but I have a feeling she's gonna be a trifle pissed at me this summer. Well, it's supposed to be torrential storms all weekend, so I will likely wait for a break in the thunder and lightening and try to get at least one good ride in, in the next two days.
John, from here on referred to as "the man", from the LSB, Local Bike Shop for any newbs, got me a sick, in my mind, hook up on an `07 Specialized Rockhopper Disc, and the wife "got it for me" for the birthday, read that as I acquired it and alerted her that it was going to be her present for me, if you are married you know what I mean. Sorry, what I was getting to is having the opportunity to ride, virtually, every single day in the last week. There's something about bombing down a hill a foot away from sheer disaster, looking down into a river, or down a hill into the woods, switchbacks, its just beautiful. I'll start taking pictures and posting occasionally. We've had some rain lately, and I've enjoyed coming in covered in mud and hurting. I've already managed to clean one of the hills I set as a goal, not a horribly big one. It's fairly steep, very loose and rocky, and part of a ninety or so degree turn. It amounts to a really good learning about the difference between mountain and road. The difference between bearing down and taking of like a shot and bearing down and having your wheels lose their footing in the dirt, or having your back end jumping around when you hit a patch of rock. It's just a whole new exhilarating experience. I don't think I'm ready to sell the road bike, but I have a feeling she's gonna be a trifle pissed at me this summer. Well, it's supposed to be torrential storms all weekend, so I will likely wait for a break in the thunder and lightening and try to get at least one good ride in, in the next two days.
10 April 2008
An Assos Tribute To The Fat Cyclist
For those of you who don't know, or may not be regular readers of Fat Cyclist, he did a post that was comedy gold. The post revolved around the superfluous kits made by the on, the only, Assos. Incase you haven't read the previously mentioned post it is called An Open Letter To Assos. This is Fatty's self proclaimed "favorite Fat Cyclist post of all time", and it lead to The Wit And Wisdom Of Dr Michael Lämmler. I'm not 100% sure, but I think Open Letter might have been the first Fat Cyclist post I read. Nope, I'm actually pretty sure How To Pee Whilst You Ride Your Bike was my introduction into Fat Cyclist.
Anyway, the importance of all of this is that I had a good chuckle, followed by a belly laugh, a chuckle, a remembrance of the Assos post, one more belly laugh and then it hit me! What is it, you ask. Well, I arrived home from work to find a parcel in my mailbox. Not just any parcel, rather a 3/4"x6"x15" parcel. Where was this parcel from, you ask? Glad you did! The parcel was from Switzerland, from none other than ASSOS! )Insert "Duhn duhn DUHHHH!! music here)
I got this on account I order all of my cycling apparel from Assos, seriously. I mean, there's nothing I like more than the felling of taking one *ahem* you know, everytime I put on a pair of bibs. Thinking, "WOW! I could've fed three impoverished third-world nations with the money I spent on these. I digress, the first thing I immediately thought of was Fatty's posts, then I thought "I could totally run with this." So, I'm going to.
The package was huge, dare I saw so big it was a waste of packaging? albeit beautiful. It was a tri-fold package that opened in half, followed by a left and right flap.
It was beautiful packaging, but inside was a tiny 5"x5" or so CD booklet looking Highlights Brochure, and a 1/4"x6"x12" Catalogue (it IS from Switzerland, after all). The highlight of the catalog, er, catalogue was undoubtedly the nice body of the girl in it. This is what it looked like disassembled.
So Fatty, this ones for you! Thanks for the years of laughs, good man!
-Don
Anyway, the importance of all of this is that I had a good chuckle, followed by a belly laugh, a chuckle, a remembrance of the Assos post, one more belly laugh and then it hit me! What is it, you ask. Well, I arrived home from work to find a parcel in my mailbox. Not just any parcel, rather a 3/4"x6"x15" parcel. Where was this parcel from, you ask? Glad you did! The parcel was from Switzerland, from none other than ASSOS! )Insert "Duhn duhn DUHHHH!! music here)
I got this on account I order all of my cycling apparel from Assos, seriously. I mean, there's nothing I like more than the felling of taking one *ahem* you know, everytime I put on a pair of bibs. Thinking, "WOW! I could've fed three impoverished third-world nations with the money I spent on these. I digress, the first thing I immediately thought of was Fatty's posts, then I thought "I could totally run with this." So, I'm going to.The package was huge, dare I saw so big it was a waste of packaging? albeit beautiful. It was a tri-fold package that opened in half, followed by a left and right flap.
It was beautiful packaging, but inside was a tiny 5"x5" or so CD booklet looking Highlights Brochure, and a 1/4"x6"x12" Catalogue (it IS from Switzerland, after all). The highlight of the catalog, er, catalogue was undoubtedly the nice body of the girl in it. This is what it looked like disassembled.
So Fatty, this ones for you! Thanks for the years of laughs, good man!
-Don
09 April 2008
Weekly Roundup April 9
It is that time of year again! Spring has sprung and summer is just around the corner. Well, around the corner, down a mile, hang one more left and the third door on the right, ish. My tribute to spring? A quick jaunt through a few of my favorite blogs in the past week, and many with a spring flavor! With that friends; The Weekly Roundup!
Travels With A Tin Donkey: I can’t think of a more appropriate way to start a spring themed roundup. 2008 Season Really begins: Out On The Open Road At Last!, and truer words were never spoke. It’s so good to get out into the fresh air once again. Sprocketboy polished the Bianchi and got out for his first ride of the year, and what a ride it was.
Harp Rider: Harp puts you on the edge of your seat with what we should all take as a reminder. Stayin Alive On The Road is a reminder that when we get back out onto the road we must remain vigilant and aware of our surroundings. It’s a vitally important reminder that you have to be alert to cars and assume that they don’t see you. I’m a pretty strong believer that certain close calls are a given, but that we can minimize the fatal outcomes by paying attention where others might not. Glad to hear it turned out OK for you Harp!
Cozy Beehive: What better way to spend a pleasant spring or summer afternoon then with your special someone, or the kids, cruising around on a tandem. Now, you could do it with a greater deal of comfort too. Ray shows off and gives a crash coarse in the DaVinci Independent Drive System For Tandems, which allows for independent coasting. A true breakthrough in tandems.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser shares with us the story of The Weekend ride with the now infamous Al. It was quite a journey, and turned into a hilarious bit, with quite a few friendly jabs, regarding the ride.
Fat Cyclist: Finally this week, Fatty takes a sad, sad (Sarcasm) moment and finds it in his heart to lend a hand in a time of loss. He took it upon himself to help Aqu, Inc. by reworking their press release of the unfortunate (cough) postponing of the Tour Of America. It’s not that we couldn’t see it coming, but this is the funniest thing I think I’ve read all week, and I read it, like, eight times. Edited Press Release: Tour Of America Reschedules For 2009 is a comedy work of art Fatty, Bravo! (You say that to award winning blogs, you know! Congrats, again, on the Bloggie)
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the breaks in the weather. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: I can’t think of a more appropriate way to start a spring themed roundup. 2008 Season Really begins: Out On The Open Road At Last!, and truer words were never spoke. It’s so good to get out into the fresh air once again. Sprocketboy polished the Bianchi and got out for his first ride of the year, and what a ride it was.
Harp Rider: Harp puts you on the edge of your seat with what we should all take as a reminder. Stayin Alive On The Road is a reminder that when we get back out onto the road we must remain vigilant and aware of our surroundings. It’s a vitally important reminder that you have to be alert to cars and assume that they don’t see you. I’m a pretty strong believer that certain close calls are a given, but that we can minimize the fatal outcomes by paying attention where others might not. Glad to hear it turned out OK for you Harp!
Cozy Beehive: What better way to spend a pleasant spring or summer afternoon then with your special someone, or the kids, cruising around on a tandem. Now, you could do it with a greater deal of comfort too. Ray shows off and gives a crash coarse in the DaVinci Independent Drive System For Tandems, which allows for independent coasting. A true breakthrough in tandems.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser shares with us the story of The Weekend ride with the now infamous Al. It was quite a journey, and turned into a hilarious bit, with quite a few friendly jabs, regarding the ride.
Fat Cyclist: Finally this week, Fatty takes a sad, sad (Sarcasm) moment and finds it in his heart to lend a hand in a time of loss. He took it upon himself to help Aqu, Inc. by reworking their press release of the unfortunate (cough) postponing of the Tour Of America. It’s not that we couldn’t see it coming, but this is the funniest thing I think I’ve read all week, and I read it, like, eight times. Edited Press Release: Tour Of America Reschedules For 2009 is a comedy work of art Fatty, Bravo! (You say that to award winning blogs, you know! Congrats, again, on the Bloggie)
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Enjoy the breaks in the weather. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
08 April 2008
Problems, er, Misfortunes Of Cycling - Misfortune 33
Let me start with a disclaimer and explanation of the title: as any cyclist knows there are truly no "problems" in cycling. There may be misfortune, areas of opportunity, possibly even difficult moments but not true problems. I just couldn't think of a better word initially, so there you have it. I'll stick with misfortune when all is said and done.
With that, one of the misfortunes of cycling that everyone, who has hair, experiences is what I'd like to call "The Helmet Hawk(s)". The pluralization will depend on the type of helmet, of course, but it's a conundrum none the less. For those of you who might not know what the "Helmet Hawk" is:
Now, I've been told that there are some easy solutions to this problem, one I've heard is to use a paisley bandana 
folded into a triangle and then tied around the head in kerchief or dew-rag fashion. The inherent problem with this, is I feel as though it would make me look like a pirate and I am not a pirate. 
Another option, I suppose would be a cycling cap much like this 
(By the way, that's Natalie from Sweetpea Bicycles. If you haven't heard before, consider yourself informed and check out Sweetpea's Bikes. They're super nice!) Anyway, I could see where the bill could be a great utilitarian bonus, but I also think it would ultimately annoy me. That leaves the final solution of the skull cap or skully. 
(Pearl Izumi, hey... really like your stuff. If you want, you can send me stuff and I'd LOVE to give you guys some love in the blog). I like the idea of a skull cap but I could see my head feeling as though it was going to catch fire if I had to wear one while riding in the summer.
So, alas, what is a cyclist to do to avoid Helmet Hawk? I guess the best solution is a razor. That's right, if we could shave our legs, why not shave our heads too.
With that, one of the misfortunes of cycling that everyone, who has hair, experiences is what I'd like to call "The Helmet Hawk(s)". The pluralization will depend on the type of helmet, of course, but it's a conundrum none the less. For those of you who might not know what the "Helmet Hawk" is:
Now, I've been told that there are some easy solutions to this problem, one I've heard is to use a paisley bandana 
folded into a triangle and then tied around the head in kerchief or dew-rag fashion. The inherent problem with this, is I feel as though it would make me look like a pirate and I am not a pirate. 
Another option, I suppose would be a cycling cap much like this 
(By the way, that's Natalie from Sweetpea Bicycles. If you haven't heard before, consider yourself informed and check out Sweetpea's Bikes. They're super nice!) Anyway, I could see where the bill could be a great utilitarian bonus, but I also think it would ultimately annoy me. That leaves the final solution of the skull cap or skully. 
(Pearl Izumi, hey... really like your stuff. If you want, you can send me stuff and I'd LOVE to give you guys some love in the blog). I like the idea of a skull cap but I could see my head feeling as though it was going to catch fire if I had to wear one while riding in the summer. So, alas, what is a cyclist to do to avoid Helmet Hawk? I guess the best solution is a razor. That's right, if we could shave our legs, why not shave our heads too.
07 April 2008
The Weekend Ride, Again.
Apologies for not posting Friday. I took off early and went for a quick twenty-five mile ride, off to bed early, woke up extra early and took an epic sixty-five mile jaunt around the single track. Woke up early Sunday had a killer breakfast and then, being a bit tired from the Saturday ride, took a short twenty or so mile ride.
OK, now that I've got that b.s. out of the way...
My weekend sucked! It was a case of getting out late Friday in the grayest rainy skies I've seen in a year, rain, and just overall crappy. Got home it was arguably too dark to ride, and there were errands that HAD to be run. Wound up hitting bed at 2:00 AM, woke up at about 10:00 AM, had so much of my day spoken for that by the time I got outside and looked around the street lights were coming on. I did manage to get a ride in Sunday, but it was only about ten or so miles before it got dark. It did feel good to get out though, and I managed to clean a hill on the first shot that when I looked down it looked a lot steeper than it felt going up it. I hope that this is a sign of what's to come. I managed to get around enough to gauge hills and trails and stuff, just enough to make goals for myself. I have an idea of what I want to accomplish this year, so I guess thats at least one good thing. For starters, I'm back into the high 190's, don't know how the hell that happened. OK, so it's been a series of parties, and crappy food at said parties. So right now goal one is to drop the last twenty-some pounds to get down to my previously aforementioned 170 pound goal. Once I get to 170, I'll reevaluate the weight and see if I want, er, need to lose more.
I also have an idea of what hills I want to be able to clean, how strong I'd like to get, things like weightlifting and such to build upper body strength. All of this in due time. I hope to be a new man by summers end.
OK, now that I've got that b.s. out of the way...
My weekend sucked! It was a case of getting out late Friday in the grayest rainy skies I've seen in a year, rain, and just overall crappy. Got home it was arguably too dark to ride, and there were errands that HAD to be run. Wound up hitting bed at 2:00 AM, woke up at about 10:00 AM, had so much of my day spoken for that by the time I got outside and looked around the street lights were coming on. I did manage to get a ride in Sunday, but it was only about ten or so miles before it got dark. It did feel good to get out though, and I managed to clean a hill on the first shot that when I looked down it looked a lot steeper than it felt going up it. I hope that this is a sign of what's to come. I managed to get around enough to gauge hills and trails and stuff, just enough to make goals for myself. I have an idea of what I want to accomplish this year, so I guess thats at least one good thing. For starters, I'm back into the high 190's, don't know how the hell that happened. OK, so it's been a series of parties, and crappy food at said parties. So right now goal one is to drop the last twenty-some pounds to get down to my previously aforementioned 170 pound goal. Once I get to 170, I'll reevaluate the weight and see if I want, er, need to lose more.
I also have an idea of what hills I want to be able to clean, how strong I'd like to get, things like weightlifting and such to build upper body strength. All of this in due time. I hope to be a new man by summers end.
03 April 2008
It's Like Porn For Cyclists
I was just spending some quality time with YouTube and came across this. I have to say, if stuff like this doesn't get you going I don't know what would, it's like porn for cyclists. What? I'm wrong? C'mon tell me you didn't just watch that and think, "Man, I really want to go climb like a mad man." Sidebar: Remember when they used to ride without helmets? Wasn't that long ago.
02 April 2008
Weekly Roundup April 2
Hello, all! Let me apologize for phoning in the crappy April Fools’ post yesterday… Admittedly it could’ve had a bit more heart. I do have to admit I want to order a couple of hats from the crochet woman. Her hats look pretty sweet. Anyway, been enjoying the breaks in the weather on the MTB, and enjoying what I’ve been reading lately. With that friends; The Weekly Roundup!
Harp Rider: I’ll start off this week with the infamous poissonier Harp and his post Would You Ride A Pink Bike?. To answer, yes… yes I would. It takes a serious guy with serious stones to rock a pink bike while bombing down a trail. Pink is the new black, and it says to the world, “Hey, I’m on a pink bike an I’m about to beat the crap out of you!” Harp, do it! Buy the pink bike.
Fat Cyclist: Very much along the same line of thought Fatty discusses the intricacies of picking your style and color of bike. How To Choose Your Bike’s Color is a riot. Fatty throws in his two cents about how to pick a proper bike, and what the color says about you. By the way, the ads are sweet too! Oh, and one more thing… yes, red is still the fastest color. Even Fatty agrees, more or less.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser is in the same boat as I was the last few weeks. Go to bed to beautiful weather, wake up to crap! On Again, Off Again is his journey into the on again off again weather. Also, what he finds along the way in his rides. The good, the bad, and the ‘evidence of Tri Cyclists’.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: The Brewery to Brewery (B2B) Ride: still yet another intersection of beer and cycling, ahhhh. Yet another post after my own heart! There is only one thing in life more refreshing than water, to me, and that’s an ice cold GOOD beer. For me that means a hoppy microbrew. Better yet one of my, or a dear friends homebrew. This is a quickie to announce the eighth annual Harpoon Brewery B2B.
Bike Snob NYC: Finally I’ll leave you with a funny look at Bike Snob NYC’s round up what he considers the humor posts for April Fools Day. BSNYC April Fools’ Day Roundup covers the bases that were the best of the April Fools posts, or are they? *Duhn duhn duhhhhh* Heh, heh, heh... this was a good one BS.
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Keep up the great rides. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
Harp Rider: I’ll start off this week with the infamous poissonier Harp and his post Would You Ride A Pink Bike?. To answer, yes… yes I would. It takes a serious guy with serious stones to rock a pink bike while bombing down a trail. Pink is the new black, and it says to the world, “Hey, I’m on a pink bike an I’m about to beat the crap out of you!” Harp, do it! Buy the pink bike.
Fat Cyclist: Very much along the same line of thought Fatty discusses the intricacies of picking your style and color of bike. How To Choose Your Bike’s Color is a riot. Fatty throws in his two cents about how to pick a proper bike, and what the color says about you. By the way, the ads are sweet too! Oh, and one more thing… yes, red is still the fastest color. Even Fatty agrees, more or less.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser is in the same boat as I was the last few weeks. Go to bed to beautiful weather, wake up to crap! On Again, Off Again is his journey into the on again off again weather. Also, what he finds along the way in his rides. The good, the bad, and the ‘evidence of Tri Cyclists’.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: The Brewery to Brewery (B2B) Ride: still yet another intersection of beer and cycling, ahhhh. Yet another post after my own heart! There is only one thing in life more refreshing than water, to me, and that’s an ice cold GOOD beer. For me that means a hoppy microbrew. Better yet one of my, or a dear friends homebrew. This is a quickie to announce the eighth annual Harpoon Brewery B2B.
Bike Snob NYC: Finally I’ll leave you with a funny look at Bike Snob NYC’s round up what he considers the humor posts for April Fools Day. BSNYC April Fools’ Day Roundup covers the bases that were the best of the April Fools posts, or are they? *Duhn duhn duhhhhh* Heh, heh, heh... this was a good one BS.
Well, that’s all she wrote for now. Keep up the great rides. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
01 April 2008
Favorite New Blogs!
With the "Weekly Roundup" coming up tomorrow, I wanted to take a minute to introduce you to a few new blogs that are really of interest to me as of late. For those of you who read regularly, you know that I've been riding road, and recently have picked up a Mountain Bike. With this change has come a myriad of changes in what I read and what I've found interesting. So before I jump headfirst into a Roundup of totally different blogs, I wanted to give you all a sneak peak.
The first is a great blog to catch up on all of the latest cycling gear. Cycle Gear Weekly is the latest in chic cycle apparel. In a similar vein, Cycle Style is what all of the latest cyclists are sure to be wearing on your next ride!
Everyone knows that every true mountain biker needs to get some ink, right? Riders Ink (get it? a play on Riders, Inc.) is about what all the cool MTBers wil be tatting! Finally, last but not least, here we have a blog for your bitch.
I hope you receive as much joy as I do from reading these daily!
The first is a great blog to catch up on all of the latest cycling gear. Cycle Gear Weekly is the latest in chic cycle apparel. In a similar vein, Cycle Style is what all of the latest cyclists are sure to be wearing on your next ride!
Everyone knows that every true mountain biker needs to get some ink, right? Riders Ink (get it? a play on Riders, Inc.) is about what all the cool MTBers wil be tatting! Finally, last but not least, here we have a blog for your bitch.
I hope you receive as much joy as I do from reading these daily!
31 March 2008
Weekend Riding
Whoa! talk about living life like I'd like to. I had a weekend of spoiling myself. Friday I had some things to get done, and I did, but first I woke up early. I woke up at the time I normally would if I were going to work, only I took a nice long ride around the trails. Came back showered, and got done what I had to. Saturday I woke up and had a healthy breakfast, donned the gear and went for a much longer ride. Trails, streets, etc. Sunday? You guessed it. First, though, did Church, had a bite and jumped on the bike for day three of three weekend riding. It was how I've always wanted my life to be. It go me thinking about how I could rearrange my life to better fit in biking. That will come later, as will my thoughts on road biking vs. mountain biking.
There is something so awesome and pure about getting out in the open spaces, in the fresh air, riding the side of a ledge, animals all around you. It's so cool, after an obnoxiously long winter, to get back on a bike and feel the pain of a hill, feel the wind hit you in the face. Now all there is to do is wait for some serious riding, hopefully soon, once the snow is totally gone and the trails have drained. Who knows, I may just get out and ride with the award winning Fat Cyclist in Utah, wouldn't that be a blast? John has also promised to abuse me a bit around Ohio. There might even be an opportunity later in the year to wind up riding the mountains of Arizona; man would I need to get some serious work done in order to prepare for that.
All in all it is really shaping up to be a good year so far. Would anyone be interested in coming up to the Cleveland area for a ride this summer? Road or mountain... or both. Hey it could be fun.
There is something so awesome and pure about getting out in the open spaces, in the fresh air, riding the side of a ledge, animals all around you. It's so cool, after an obnoxiously long winter, to get back on a bike and feel the pain of a hill, feel the wind hit you in the face. Now all there is to do is wait for some serious riding, hopefully soon, once the snow is totally gone and the trails have drained. Who knows, I may just get out and ride with the award winning Fat Cyclist in Utah, wouldn't that be a blast? John has also promised to abuse me a bit around Ohio. There might even be an opportunity later in the year to wind up riding the mountains of Arizona; man would I need to get some serious work done in order to prepare for that.
All in all it is really shaping up to be a good year so far. Would anyone be interested in coming up to the Cleveland area for a ride this summer? Road or mountain... or both. Hey it could be fun.
28 March 2008
Yeah... What The Tape Says.
Yup, as it says Gone Riding. Had the day off Friday 'cause I'm a damn slacker. Got some riding to do, among other things. Saturday, you guessed it, start with a ride. Maybe swim afterward in the evening. Then Sunday Church followed by? No, lunch... THEN a ride. Sorry, but I'll se you again Monday!-Don
27 March 2008
How Truly Aware Are You?
OK, only catch here is you have to be totally honest. If not, like so many spam emails, you will be forced to endure a group or rabid penguins slowly pecking one-eighth inch squares of skin from your body while dwarf hamsters eat your flesh and poissonier's (yer welcome Harp) drip left over lemon juice on your carcass. (Man, I need help). OH! and as a side note: I'm totally unhappy with YouTube. This was supposed to go up Monday... it finnaly posted from YouTube to the blog today. Pshhhh.
26 March 2008
Weekly Roundup March 26
Hello folks and welcome! Freaking cool week so far... Again! I have a new router which is making blogging and work a heck of a lot easier, business is picking up, and the coolest of all I got to ride Friday and Saturday! It’s still cool having a mountain bike. I can’t wait to have the daylight to get out again, but I’ve been busy the last week or so. I can’t believe what I’ve been missing. With that I give you (in no particular order): The Weekly Roundup!
50K Loop NS: Congrats to my man in Nova Scotia, Bluenoser on his new acquisition. Test Ride is about his new Motobecane, and Im mad... it's orange. Orange is (one) my favorite color ever, and (two) faster than red. Once again if you're not a regular the story goes: I called him out on account he’s riding a blue bike, I told him red is a much faster color (my new MTB is red) but I have it figured out fairly well that orange is in fact THEE fastest color.
Cozy Beehive: This week Ray introduces what seems like it might just be the most useless waste of money ever. I honestly can't decide if the Click Stand Folding Kick Stand is the coolest thing ever invented, or an utter waste of time and resources. You'll have to decide for yourself.
Fat Cyclist: This weeks biggie was an open letter to Mellow Johnnie An Open Letter To Mellow Johnnie. As in the past, Fatty takes his opportunity to bag on the one, the only, Lance Armstrong. I'd actually have a problem with Fatty if he didn't give so generously to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, but I guess I'll let the bagging on the founder slide. This is a great read, but you will laugh out loud so do it away from work.
Bunny Hop Rockstar: I'll end with John's blog and just leave it at this. John is pulling off some races on the west coast the next couple weeks, and will be documenting with photos. Keep checking in, I'm sure it's going to be very cool.
Well that’s it; hope you enjoyed. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
50K Loop NS: Congrats to my man in Nova Scotia, Bluenoser on his new acquisition. Test Ride is about his new Motobecane, and Im mad... it's orange. Orange is (one) my favorite color ever, and (two) faster than red. Once again if you're not a regular the story goes: I called him out on account he’s riding a blue bike, I told him red is a much faster color (my new MTB is red) but I have it figured out fairly well that orange is in fact THEE fastest color.
Cozy Beehive: This week Ray introduces what seems like it might just be the most useless waste of money ever. I honestly can't decide if the Click Stand Folding Kick Stand is the coolest thing ever invented, or an utter waste of time and resources. You'll have to decide for yourself.
Fat Cyclist: This weeks biggie was an open letter to Mellow Johnnie An Open Letter To Mellow Johnnie. As in the past, Fatty takes his opportunity to bag on the one, the only, Lance Armstrong. I'd actually have a problem with Fatty if he didn't give so generously to the Lance Armstrong Foundation, but I guess I'll let the bagging on the founder slide. This is a great read, but you will laugh out loud so do it away from work.
Bunny Hop Rockstar: I'll end with John's blog and just leave it at this. John is pulling off some races on the west coast the next couple weeks, and will be documenting with photos. Keep checking in, I'm sure it's going to be very cool.
Well that’s it; hope you enjoyed. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
25 March 2008
Craptastic Day
I woke up this morning with absolute dread about what I had to do. I knew when the alarm went off it was a day of reckoning of sorts. It would be the day I would have to weigh in after a crazy weekend of engorging and libations. Long story short, I figured I would have put on a pound or two and I did. OK, so that's only part of it, half of it to be specific. Yeah I gained four freakin' pounds. If you read yesterdays post you know I attribute it to a specific horrifying chain of events starting with dinner for my birthday and ending in holiday food.
So starting today I have gone back to my "Sprocket Boy's Muesli (Of Doom)". By the way if you haven't tried Sprocket Boy's Muesli you really need to. Muesli for breakfast and lunch with a sensible dinner. Today it was a few pieces of sushi, tomorrow a salad, Wednesday will be crab stuffed salmon (just for Harp) and asparagus. I haven't figured out anything past that. The only other snag in the whole thing is I have a business lunch that I have to be in attendance for on Wednesday, but there is also a 96.2% chance that the lunch will be salad, or there will be an option for salad. I have obligations Tuesday and Wednesday after work which will not allow for riding, and Thursday and Saturday is an expected torrential downpour, no word on Sunday yet. So as it stands I might get a ride in Friday, and there is always the option of manning up and going to the indoor MTB park.
Bottom line, by the end of this year I cannot be a fatass any longer. 193 now with a 170 goal.
So starting today I have gone back to my "Sprocket Boy's Muesli (Of Doom)". By the way if you haven't tried Sprocket Boy's Muesli you really need to. Muesli for breakfast and lunch with a sensible dinner. Today it was a few pieces of sushi, tomorrow a salad, Wednesday will be crab stuffed salmon (just for Harp) and asparagus. I haven't figured out anything past that. The only other snag in the whole thing is I have a business lunch that I have to be in attendance for on Wednesday, but there is also a 96.2% chance that the lunch will be salad, or there will be an option for salad. I have obligations Tuesday and Wednesday after work which will not allow for riding, and Thursday and Saturday is an expected torrential downpour, no word on Sunday yet. So as it stands I might get a ride in Friday, and there is always the option of manning up and going to the indoor MTB park.
Bottom line, by the end of this year I cannot be a fatass any longer. 193 now with a 170 goal.
24 March 2008
Why Holidays Blow
I would just like to make the point that I LOVE holidays, for the most part. What, you ask, could I possibly have against holidays? As always, glad you asked.
You see, the main problem with holidays is that they're almost an excuse to overeat. I will start with my birthday. It was an excuse to go out and eat crap I know full well I should look at let alone ingest. Example: A half-pound burger the size of my head, chipotle mayo, pepper-jack cheese, a pablano pepper (arguably the healthiest part of the meal), tortilla strips, and steak fries with three twenty-four ounce beers. Yeah, I know... I have NO self control, it's why I'm a fatass. Enter Easter. My wife makes her world famous scalloped potatoes. Ingredients: Potatoes (duh), a gallon of whole milk, fourteen metric tons of butter, and an entire dairy farm of cheese. That's just the potatoes. Never mind the green bean casserole, sweet potato(e) (Dan Quayle joke... I know it dates me, but c'mon... the classics?) marshmallow casserole, turkey and stuffing, biscuits, bread pudding, etc. I swear I probably put on five pounds this weekend. I'm serious, no joke there. I'm actually afraid to weigh myself tomorrow morning.
Now I just have to hope it stays nice enough that we don't have the flooding rains we're supposed to get so I can get the new rig on a trail. If we do get what they're expecting there's no way the trails around here will drain. Guess we'll just have to cross our fingers, right.
You see, the main problem with holidays is that they're almost an excuse to overeat. I will start with my birthday. It was an excuse to go out and eat crap I know full well I should look at let alone ingest. Example: A half-pound burger the size of my head, chipotle mayo, pepper-jack cheese, a pablano pepper (arguably the healthiest part of the meal), tortilla strips, and steak fries with three twenty-four ounce beers. Yeah, I know... I have NO self control, it's why I'm a fatass. Enter Easter. My wife makes her world famous scalloped potatoes. Ingredients: Potatoes (duh), a gallon of whole milk, fourteen metric tons of butter, and an entire dairy farm of cheese. That's just the potatoes. Never mind the green bean casserole, sweet potato(e) (Dan Quayle joke... I know it dates me, but c'mon... the classics?) marshmallow casserole, turkey and stuffing, biscuits, bread pudding, etc. I swear I probably put on five pounds this weekend. I'm serious, no joke there. I'm actually afraid to weigh myself tomorrow morning.
Now I just have to hope it stays nice enough that we don't have the flooding rains we're supposed to get so I can get the new rig on a trail. If we do get what they're expecting there's no way the trails around here will drain. Guess we'll just have to cross our fingers, right.
21 March 2008
Cold, Snow, Mud... Feels Good.
So I got out of work early today, there was less snow on the ground than last week, it was muddy and I was craving a ride. So I jumped on the new bike and hit the local trail. It was a good time, the only thing to get REALLY muddy was the back end of the Don (me), and the underside of my seat, but I got the bike a little bit dirty. 
It was a blast, not hikers, no joggers just me on the trail enjoying the scenes and riding. I'm really digging riding on less than paved routes. Also It will be nice on account I'll be able to ride into town on errands now and stuff... so long as they fit in a pack. Anyway, I have a feeling John was right, I'm going to like this way too much. Enough to sell the road bike? Probably not, much to the dismay of my wife, but a ton none the less.
With that I'd like to say that I'm taking the weekend off, Good Friday tonight and birthday dinner, libations with friends (message me if your in Cleveland and are really that bored tomorrow that you'd like to join) tomorrow, Easter "fun" on Sunday. Oh well, I'm sure I'll fit a ride in tomorrow and Sunday unless we get the three to six inches that they're calling for. So for now I'll leave you with the hottest peep show on earth!
HAPPY EASTER!
It was a blast, not hikers, no joggers just me on the trail enjoying the scenes and riding. I'm really digging riding on less than paved routes. Also It will be nice on account I'll be able to ride into town on errands now and stuff... so long as they fit in a pack. Anyway, I have a feeling John was right, I'm going to like this way too much. Enough to sell the road bike? Probably not, much to the dismay of my wife, but a ton none the less. With that I'd like to say that I'm taking the weekend off, Good Friday tonight and birthday dinner, libations with friends (message me if your in Cleveland and are really that bored tomorrow that you'd like to join) tomorrow, Easter "fun" on Sunday. Oh well, I'm sure I'll fit a ride in tomorrow and Sunday unless we get the three to six inches that they're calling for. So for now I'll leave you with the hottest peep show on earth!
HAPPY EASTER!20 March 2008
Two Of The Crazier Things I've Seen
For those of you who read regularly, or might on the off chance know me, you know there's one thing painfully annoying to me about the Tour de France... Or should I say The Tour DEEEE France. That's right, folks, Bob Roll is the proverbial fly in the ointment, the thorn in my side, the bop in the bop shoo wop... no, never mind that. He annoys the crap out of me when he pronounces the Tour as the Tour dee France (Hard "e"... EXTREMELY hard "e" in de). It's almost as if he is mispronouncing it on purpose and streesing deeeeee just to piss of the French or something. It actaually makes me twitch at the sound. Still, I find this video funny as heck. One further thing of note, please get out your beatnik snaps for Bob "the Beatnik" Roll... this is an interesting look for Bobke.
19 March 2008
Weekly Roundup March 19
Freaking cool week so far. I have a new router on the way which should make blogging (oh, and work too!) a heck of a lot easier, business is picking up, and the coolest of all? I got to ride Sunday! It’s cool to have a mountain bike, and getting my butt kicked in the snow was painful and beautiful. I can’t wait to have the daylight to get out again, but I’ve been busy the last 2 days. I can’t believe what I’ve been missing. With that I give you (in no particular order): The Weekly Roundup!
50K Loop NS: I love this blog, and this week Bluenoser even gave me a tag in More Snow 03/16/08. The story goes: I called him out on account he’s riding a blue bike, I told him red is a much faster color (my new MTB is red), so this was his answer. Much respect BN!
Cozy Beehive: This week Ray brings two extremely funny, yet informative blogs. The most recent is How A Bicycle Helmet Works, quite literally what it sounds like. The earlier is Human Accidents vs. Product Redesign. Here Ray explains the correct way to work on your bike sans a stand, and the problems that may arise.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: Need I say more… Eight Healthy Reasons To Drink Beer is Sprocketboy paying homage to a favorite past time; Beer, the reason I am a lardy lad!
Bike Snob NYC: Bike Snob was off for a week, but he is back in full swing craving a TT Bike and with a new webite!The Grand (Re)Design: A New Look For Spring! is a sneak peak at what might be his future bike, and the designs he’s “kicking around.”
Fat Cyclist: For those who are not regulars of one of my favorite, and award winning, blogs, let me bring you up to speed. Fatty went out and, on a whim, bought a Gary Fisher Superfly. The funnier part of the story is Fisher is willing to loan him one, so he will eventually be storing and riding TWO Gary Fisher Superfly’s. The one he bought he finally got around to riding, two weeks after the purchase. After riding it, he wrote Point / Counterpoint: Fatty’s New Superfly, a post where he point and counterpoints WITH THE BIKE?! A Very interesting, and award winning, read.
Did I mention I got a new bike (huge smiles)! Well that’s it; hope you enjoyed. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
50K Loop NS: I love this blog, and this week Bluenoser even gave me a tag in More Snow 03/16/08. The story goes: I called him out on account he’s riding a blue bike, I told him red is a much faster color (my new MTB is red), so this was his answer. Much respect BN!
Cozy Beehive: This week Ray brings two extremely funny, yet informative blogs. The most recent is How A Bicycle Helmet Works, quite literally what it sounds like. The earlier is Human Accidents vs. Product Redesign. Here Ray explains the correct way to work on your bike sans a stand, and the problems that may arise.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: Need I say more… Eight Healthy Reasons To Drink Beer is Sprocketboy paying homage to a favorite past time; Beer, the reason I am a lardy lad!
Bike Snob NYC: Bike Snob was off for a week, but he is back in full swing craving a TT Bike and with a new webite!The Grand (Re)Design: A New Look For Spring! is a sneak peak at what might be his future bike, and the designs he’s “kicking around.”
Fat Cyclist: For those who are not regulars of one of my favorite, and award winning, blogs, let me bring you up to speed. Fatty went out and, on a whim, bought a Gary Fisher Superfly. The funnier part of the story is Fisher is willing to loan him one, so he will eventually be storing and riding TWO Gary Fisher Superfly’s. The one he bought he finally got around to riding, two weeks after the purchase. After riding it, he wrote Point / Counterpoint: Fatty’s New Superfly, a post where he point and counterpoints WITH THE BIKE?! A Very interesting, and award winning, read.
Did I mention I got a new bike (huge smiles)! Well that’s it; hope you enjoyed. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
18 March 2008
Translations For The Cyclist
So I just wanted to touch base on something I said yesterday and segue into todays post. If you caught yesterdays blog you know I said: My wife "got me" a new bike for my birthday. The reason I took the time to put "got me" in quotation marks is this. My wife found out she got me a new bike when I said, "Hey, guess what. My birthday is coming up and I could get a sweet deal on a mountain bike." The rest of the conversation leading to the purchase of said bike isn't as important is this; what cyclist say to their spouse/significant other/etc. and what the meaning is are oft-different subjects. here are a few examples that come to mind. Generally, I've found, guys are notorious for this, but I have met a few like-minded women as well.
Cyclist Says: There's a great sale at the bike shop, and I'd really love a full carbon set up honey.
Cyclist Means: I already put money down on this too hard to pass up carbon bike.
Cyclist Says: So if I were to buy a SRAM Force Groupe for the bike would it be cool with you.
Cyclist Means: I have a SRAM Force Groupe in the trunk, if I take it out now will I suddenly go missing?
Cyclist Says: I look hot as hell in my new (insert team or manufacturer) kit, right?
Cyclist Means: I look hot as hell in my new (insert team or manufacturer) kit, right?
Answerer Says: Sure, I guess?
Answerer Means: Your wearing all lycra, it's cold, and that's SO not flattering.
Cyclist Says: You don't mind if I go on a long ride tomorrow, do you?
Cyclist Means: You don't mind if I all but fall off the Earth for about twelve or so hours tomorrow?
Answerer Says: I guess not.
Answerer Means: You don't mind if you don't get any for the next six months, do you? (NOTE-this could also mean: You don't mind if I take the charge to the mall to shop for clothes, a bag and shoes?)
Cyclist Says: The spouse and I are planning a ride, you in?
Cyclist Means: I am planning a ride, she/he could give a crap less, you in?
Mind you, these are only a handful of examples, there are countless more. So there you have it folks, next time your talking cycling with a non-cycling significant other, pay attention and see if I'm right!
Cyclist Says: There's a great sale at the bike shop, and I'd really love a full carbon set up honey.
Cyclist Means: I already put money down on this too hard to pass up carbon bike.
Cyclist Says: So if I were to buy a SRAM Force Groupe for the bike would it be cool with you.
Cyclist Means: I have a SRAM Force Groupe in the trunk, if I take it out now will I suddenly go missing?
Cyclist Says: I look hot as hell in my new (insert team or manufacturer) kit, right?
Cyclist Means: I look hot as hell in my new (insert team or manufacturer) kit, right?
Answerer Says: Sure, I guess?
Answerer Means: Your wearing all lycra, it's cold, and that's SO not flattering.
Cyclist Says: You don't mind if I go on a long ride tomorrow, do you?
Cyclist Means: You don't mind if I all but fall off the Earth for about twelve or so hours tomorrow?
Answerer Says: I guess not.
Answerer Means: You don't mind if you don't get any for the next six months, do you? (NOTE-this could also mean: You don't mind if I take the charge to the mall to shop for clothes, a bag and shoes?)
Cyclist Says: The spouse and I are planning a ride, you in?
Cyclist Means: I am planning a ride, she/he could give a crap less, you in?
Mind you, these are only a handful of examples, there are countless more. So there you have it folks, next time your talking cycling with a non-cycling significant other, pay attention and see if I'm right!
17 March 2008
New Gear For `08
So this coming Friday is my birthday, I'll be 33 in case anyone cared to know. It kind of sucks because if you know me you know that I am Catholic, and that Friday is Good Friday, and Good Friday is a HUGE part of the Holy Week (Easter Week), and that because of its importance that Catholics fast that day (two small meals are the max). Long story short my wife and I were planning on going out and I was hoping for a few libations, but the sacrilege of getting a bit tanked on Good Friday is a bit much for me. All that aside, there is a reason I bring this up, and in my opinion it is THEE reason I bring this up.
So, Friday is my birthday (I know, I'm just restating after my long as heck sidebar) and the wife "got me" a sweet birthday present. Why I say "got me" to follow... She got me some new gear. Not just any new gear, but a sweet new
Specialized Rockhopper Disc. I took 'er out on the road for a bit, and of course, half foot to foot of semi melted and now refroze snow, pitted with boot prints, muddy, flooded and all I HAD to get it on the local trail. Which I did. It was so sketchy that the shorter loop I took (a one mile loop) took over an hour, but man was it fun! I really enjoyed riding road this year, but I felt like a kid again getting out having snow, mud, and water kicking up in my face, wondering if I would lose my footing and bail, it was great. Now I'm at home and my calves kill, my knees ache, my feet hurt, I just downed about 96 Oz. of water, and I feel like I could take on the world! Isn't it great how when you get off your ass and do something you feel invincible, like you could take on the world. While when you stagnate you just want to sit on the couch until you have to get back in bed. It's going to be an interesting spring, I may just decide to try a century this year if I continue to feel this good. Maybe I'll try to build a teeter.
So, Friday is my birthday (I know, I'm just restating after my long as heck sidebar) and the wife "got me" a sweet birthday present. Why I say "got me" to follow... She got me some new gear. Not just any new gear, but a sweet new
Specialized Rockhopper Disc. I took 'er out on the road for a bit, and of course, half foot to foot of semi melted and now refroze snow, pitted with boot prints, muddy, flooded and all I HAD to get it on the local trail. Which I did. It was so sketchy that the shorter loop I took (a one mile loop) took over an hour, but man was it fun! I really enjoyed riding road this year, but I felt like a kid again getting out having snow, mud, and water kicking up in my face, wondering if I would lose my footing and bail, it was great. Now I'm at home and my calves kill, my knees ache, my feet hurt, I just downed about 96 Oz. of water, and I feel like I could take on the world! Isn't it great how when you get off your ass and do something you feel invincible, like you could take on the world. While when you stagnate you just want to sit on the couch until you have to get back in bed. It's going to be an interesting spring, I may just decide to try a century this year if I continue to feel this good. Maybe I'll try to build a teeter.13 March 2008
One Form Of Cycling Over Another
So, what better way to start a week off
As a sidebar: YouTube blew this one for me... sorry if you caught the technical difficulty cause by YouTube.
12 March 2008
Weekly Roundup March 12
So much to say, so little time to say it. It’s cold, it’s miserable, and there is still far too much of the twenty-four inches of snow that fell to consider doing anything. The roads are down to near single lanes in some places, and that’s where they actually decided to plow, you can’t see around the ten to fifteen foot mounds, and where the streets are clear there I about a one inch thick layer of salt. I’m down, and I really want to ride. At least I’m not this guy. 
(Background info: This happened during the twenty-four inches in twenty four hours snow marathon. He is up over a guardrail, and about a foot, foot and a half away from going down an embankment into a river) With that friends, and to make up for the lack of substance lately due to the lack of a home network (what the hell did we do before computers and networks?!) I’m giving you an extended version of The Weekly Roundup!
Bunny Hop Rockstar: The homeboy at the LBS, John, whom I probably owe some favors had a deep meaningful type of post. Initiative is a great look at what life is really about. It talks about what is really important in life. The minimalist mentality, if you will. I have to say I think the kid has it right. I’ve really been starting to realize in the last few years what is important in life, and what just gets in the way and blinds you from seeing that which is important. Thanks for the philosophical discussion!
Let’s Rock…: Those of you who are regulars know I like me some “Let’s Rock…” and that I’m ALWAYS up for a good cause. This weeks good cause is Boobies!! Wow, I actually don’t want to say anything after that. It just seems like such a perfect way to end a sentence. I think I’m going to leave it there and let you find out for yourself. Go ahead, it’s not bad, really. It’s actually a post about a really great cause, serious. I whole heartedly encourage any of you can can support Yeahdog in her effort to get on it now! Best wishes on raising boat-loads of cash, Yeahdog!
How To Avoid The Bummer Life: A great, humerous blog that I read often, but haven’t talked much about. It’s the guys over at Swobo. The Synopsis of the Bummer Life post will catch you up to speed, and then I recommend that you jump right into the Moustaches In Cycling: It Goes Well Beyond The Handlebar post. These guys are great and Swobo has some great gear.
50K Loop NS: It seems as though the “not being able to ride” thing might be getting to Bluenosers head. But anytime there’s a gratuitous boob joke involved, I’ll take it. HEY! New theme for the week, boobs. OK, back to the point, Blue noser had his Rest Day, and from the looks of it he needs to get back out. I could appreciate that Thom!
Cozy Beehive: Will it ever die man!? Seriously, the whole Non-Circular Chainringthing just wont seem to go away. Ron delves into the shadowy underbelly of the beast that is the non-circular chainring. Ron, I’m going to start making heart shaped ones for bright pink bikes, with tassels on the bar ends, and… sorry.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: File under will it ever die man, part II. Inadvertent Doping talks about the resent issue some riders were having with Hammer Nutrition and the impending lawsuits.
Harp Rider: Another one of my eighty or so daily reads. I want to throw kudos out to Harp for finally shaving his legs. Can’t say I’ve been able to bring myself to join the ranks yet, eh… maybe this summer. Anyway, Fatty finally broke him down, it seems, and he broke out the razor. Great overall read Harp!
Fat Cyclist: I have to give kudos to Fatty for his Bloggie (Best Sports Blog), and also share that I’m constantly amazed by his graciousness. He gave away a load of stuff to his reader for making him number one. He is a great reader, and truly a class act. This past week he realized he may have to settle for Plan B. If you are a regular reader of his you could appreciate this, but I wonder how he hasn’t gone mad with all that goes on in his life. He is inspirational.
Well that’s it; hope you enjoyed. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
(Background info: This happened during the twenty-four inches in twenty four hours snow marathon. He is up over a guardrail, and about a foot, foot and a half away from going down an embankment into a river) With that friends, and to make up for the lack of substance lately due to the lack of a home network (what the hell did we do before computers and networks?!) I’m giving you an extended version of The Weekly Roundup!Bunny Hop Rockstar: The homeboy at the LBS, John, whom I probably owe some favors had a deep meaningful type of post. Initiative is a great look at what life is really about. It talks about what is really important in life. The minimalist mentality, if you will. I have to say I think the kid has it right. I’ve really been starting to realize in the last few years what is important in life, and what just gets in the way and blinds you from seeing that which is important. Thanks for the philosophical discussion!
Let’s Rock…: Those of you who are regulars know I like me some “Let’s Rock…” and that I’m ALWAYS up for a good cause. This weeks good cause is Boobies!! Wow, I actually don’t want to say anything after that. It just seems like such a perfect way to end a sentence. I think I’m going to leave it there and let you find out for yourself. Go ahead, it’s not bad, really. It’s actually a post about a really great cause, serious. I whole heartedly encourage any of you can can support Yeahdog in her effort to get on it now! Best wishes on raising boat-loads of cash, Yeahdog!
How To Avoid The Bummer Life: A great, humerous blog that I read often, but haven’t talked much about. It’s the guys over at Swobo. The Synopsis of the Bummer Life post will catch you up to speed, and then I recommend that you jump right into the Moustaches In Cycling: It Goes Well Beyond The Handlebar post. These guys are great and Swobo has some great gear.
50K Loop NS: It seems as though the “not being able to ride” thing might be getting to Bluenosers head. But anytime there’s a gratuitous boob joke involved, I’ll take it. HEY! New theme for the week, boobs. OK, back to the point, Blue noser had his Rest Day, and from the looks of it he needs to get back out. I could appreciate that Thom!
Cozy Beehive: Will it ever die man!? Seriously, the whole Non-Circular Chainringthing just wont seem to go away. Ron delves into the shadowy underbelly of the beast that is the non-circular chainring. Ron, I’m going to start making heart shaped ones for bright pink bikes, with tassels on the bar ends, and… sorry.
Travels With A Tin Donkey: File under will it ever die man, part II. Inadvertent Doping talks about the resent issue some riders were having with Hammer Nutrition and the impending lawsuits.
Harp Rider: Another one of my eighty or so daily reads. I want to throw kudos out to Harp for finally shaving his legs. Can’t say I’ve been able to bring myself to join the ranks yet, eh… maybe this summer. Anyway, Fatty finally broke him down, it seems, and he broke out the razor. Great overall read Harp!
Fat Cyclist: I have to give kudos to Fatty for his Bloggie (Best Sports Blog), and also share that I’m constantly amazed by his graciousness. He gave away a load of stuff to his reader for making him number one. He is a great reader, and truly a class act. This past week he realized he may have to settle for Plan B. If you are a regular reader of his you could appreciate this, but I wonder how he hasn’t gone mad with all that goes on in his life. He is inspirational.
Well that’s it; hope you enjoyed. As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
10 March 2008
Big Fat Congratulations Redux!
I want to take a minute to give yet another congratulations to The Fat Cyclist who won his first ever Bloggie! I can't think of anyone who deserves it more that Fatty. He puts a ton of work in each week to pump out a hilarious blog. Congrats Fatty. Fatty took the opportunity to give his thank you speech from Disneyland in Fat Cyclist Declares Self Winner Of 2008 Bloggies Awards. The funniest thing about it? He gave his congratulatory speech about seventeen hours early, and strictly as a satire. But alas, the Fat Man pulled it off! He came through in the end to get the Best Sports Blog Bloggie. Way to go Fatty, way to go!
Oh, by the way, I am having some technical difficulties getting what I wanted to post to post. I will try again tomorrow, please bear with me. Thanks
Oh, by the way, I am having some technical difficulties getting what I wanted to post to post. I will try again tomorrow, please bear with me. Thanks
08 March 2008
Snow IV
I know, the snow thing has gone way too far. Yeah, you're right. But I post a five day week, one day is automatically the Weekly Roundup post (for now anyway), that leaves four days, and four days for me ti bitch about the weather. With that said, I want to admit something to you; I love the winter! There I said it. I love the snow, I'm OK with the cold, as a matter of fact the only thing that gets me honked off is people who don't know how to drive in, or cannot drive in snow and feel compelled to go out anyway. So I went out for a VERY short jog this morning on account I was an idiot for thinking it would be a good idea. It wasn't a bad idea, necessarily, once I got out of the countless knee-deep drifts. It really turned out to be more of a fast walk. I did get some pretty shots though so that was cool. One shot was particularly funny. The funny thing about this? Upon importing it I realized that when I took my wife's Crossroads 
for a trail worthy test spin. I have to add it faired well Considering it is a retro-inspired street cruising machine. It's actually a ton of fun to ride. Yes, I know... I was riding a "girls bike". Whatever.
Anyway, when I took it for a spin this summer I took a nearly identical shot (the before picture in the before and after). Also, I'd like to say that this was at 10:00AM, it has been a non-stop white out since last night, and its about knee deep right now. I'd have to say that we're going to clear a foot and a half if not two feet in a twenty-four hour period by the time all is said and done. With that I give you the final in the week-long series called snow. Hope everyone has a great weekend, and enjoy whatever weather you are blessed with!
*For the record: The after is NOT black and white, it was just that heavy a white-out that that's how the picture turned out.
for a trail worthy test spin. I have to add it faired well Considering it is a retro-inspired street cruising machine. It's actually a ton of fun to ride. Yes, I know... I was riding a "girls bike". Whatever.Anyway, when I took it for a spin this summer I took a nearly identical shot (the before picture in the before and after). Also, I'd like to say that this was at 10:00AM, it has been a non-stop white out since last night, and its about knee deep right now. I'd have to say that we're going to clear a foot and a half if not two feet in a twenty-four hour period by the time all is said and done. With that I give you the final in the week-long series called snow. Hope everyone has a great weekend, and enjoy whatever weather you are blessed with!
*For the record: The after is NOT black and white, it was just that heavy a white-out that that's how the picture turned out.
07 March 2008
Snow III: Phreakin' Traphic Edition
In an effort to use the hell out of the ridiculous weather we have had this week, I am pulling out yet another "Snow" post. For those of you counting this is three. For those of you who care: I am sorry for you, sorry that you have to put up with me. My wife has reasons (arguably financial among others) that she is stuck with me. Why you continue to subject yourself to my ramblings I just don't know. At any rate I appreciate your reading this and love the comments. Todays tribute to snow is the following: 
If you look close enough, or maybe if you click on it to pop it out bigger, you can see yellow trucks about dead center. They're just to the left of the pickup that you see the back end. Yeah, that IS snowplows three deep in a two lane road. The funniest part is how it was coming down about an inch an hour for a bit. Funnier yet was the following.
As I was driving I was in what can only be called a cluster (expletive deleted). There were people sliding all over, cars spinning out on the highways (like, tens of cars every few miles), traffic stopped as if there were an accident but there was not... you get the point, right? What I don't understand is this. Every car I saw had one thing in common; an Ohio license plate. Why is this a shock, you ask? Glad you asked! They were driving like it was the first time they saw snow! People, we do it ever year, man! C'mon, is it possible that you could just forget year after year after year?! Its painful, really, really, painful.
With that, I beg you... If you can't drive in snow, please stay home for everyones safety and sanity. Thank you.
If you look close enough, or maybe if you click on it to pop it out bigger, you can see yellow trucks about dead center. They're just to the left of the pickup that you see the back end. Yeah, that IS snowplows three deep in a two lane road. The funniest part is how it was coming down about an inch an hour for a bit. Funnier yet was the following. As I was driving I was in what can only be called a cluster (expletive deleted). There were people sliding all over, cars spinning out on the highways (like, tens of cars every few miles), traffic stopped as if there were an accident but there was not... you get the point, right? What I don't understand is this. Every car I saw had one thing in common; an Ohio license plate. Why is this a shock, you ask? Glad you asked! They were driving like it was the first time they saw snow! People, we do it ever year, man! C'mon, is it possible that you could just forget year after year after year?! Its painful, really, really, painful.
With that, I beg you... If you can't drive in snow, please stay home for everyones safety and sanity. Thank you.
05 March 2008
Weekly Roundup March 5
So it was a painful “morning rush” to work today. The traffic guy on the radio said (and I quote) “better give yourself an extra 30-40 minutes out the door today.” The ice and snow made an encore appearance. It was a blast! No… really, it was (sarcasm). Why do I say this? I plan on trying to ride the snow thing for the entire week if possible. With that friends; The Weekly Roundup!
Let’s Rock…: This week I’ll give YeahDog first dibs at the roundup. Partly because if you know me you know I’m not a cat, or for that matter really a pet in general, person. Partly because I hate stupid people. Partly because it was just too freaking funny to pass up.How Not To Behave In A Museum is a perfect example of why I hate people, and I suppose to a smaller degree cats, OK so I like dogs, but not ankle-biters. Anyway.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser shares one of his favorite blogs (which I’ll get to in a minute) in Fish And Bikes. It takes us on a journey, and a funny one at that, through a quote that he found on Cozy Beehive.
Cozy Beehive: This blog is one of my daily’s, and Bluenosers. This week one of his journey’s is into How A Clipless Pedal Works. Ron explains the inner mechanical workings of the clippless pedal… and how you can use it to pull a fast one on your friends and enemies.
Fat Cyclist: By far one of my faves out there. I catch up on the (now not so) fat man The Fat Cyclist. Fat Cyclist wrote a post after my own heart, while I now have rollers (and am getting OK at riding them) I really hate the idea of riding a bike inside. That’s exactly what All In Your Mind is about. It’s an enlightening tidbit on why Fatty thinks that he hates rollers and overall riding indoors, and why I need a mountain bike desperately.
Bike Snob NYC: Finally, this week the Bike Snob chimes in with some humor. Tuesday Fun Quiz was just what I needed to break up the chaos that was my Tuesday hell. Fair warning though, the “NSFW” part… yeah, is in fact not safe for work.
As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
Let’s Rock…: This week I’ll give YeahDog first dibs at the roundup. Partly because if you know me you know I’m not a cat, or for that matter really a pet in general, person. Partly because I hate stupid people. Partly because it was just too freaking funny to pass up.How Not To Behave In A Museum is a perfect example of why I hate people, and I suppose to a smaller degree cats, OK so I like dogs, but not ankle-biters. Anyway.
50K Loop NS: Bluenoser shares one of his favorite blogs (which I’ll get to in a minute) in Fish And Bikes. It takes us on a journey, and a funny one at that, through a quote that he found on Cozy Beehive.
Cozy Beehive: This blog is one of my daily’s, and Bluenosers. This week one of his journey’s is into How A Clipless Pedal Works. Ron explains the inner mechanical workings of the clippless pedal… and how you can use it to pull a fast one on your friends and enemies.
Fat Cyclist: By far one of my faves out there. I catch up on the (now not so) fat man The Fat Cyclist. Fat Cyclist wrote a post after my own heart, while I now have rollers (and am getting OK at riding them) I really hate the idea of riding a bike inside. That’s exactly what All In Your Mind is about. It’s an enlightening tidbit on why Fatty thinks that he hates rollers and overall riding indoors, and why I need a mountain bike desperately.
Bike Snob NYC: Finally, this week the Bike Snob chimes in with some humor. Tuesday Fun Quiz was just what I needed to break up the chaos that was my Tuesday hell. Fair warning though, the “NSFW” part… yeah, is in fact not safe for work.
As usual, I’m the Phun Cyclist, you stay classy Cleveland.
04 March 2008
Snow II
This is going to suck for a couple of reasons. The first of which is I've been up working polls in Ohio since 5:00AM. The second is it's not quite 11:00 PM and I just got home. The third is unlike Bluenoser, we did not gain 16º in 24 hours. On the contrary, we were at 64 for a high yesterday, downright balmy really. Today, on the other-hand, we were a whopping 30º! Thats not the best part, this 
is the best part. Not impressed? Let me fully explain. This is what was left after I spent five solid minutes just trying to get my door to open in the first place, broke two ice scrapers, spent roughly an hour to try to clean my car and finally just gave up. This was the freezing rain storm that came through at about 6:30 PM in Northeastern Ohio, and gave a solid 1/2 inch coating of ice by 7:30. The aftermath looked about like
.
Bottom line: let me apologize once again for the lack of substance. Due to the lack of any real network in my home it's kinda been lame. This added to it stinks. Weekly roundup will come tomorrow, but it will be in the late afternoon. Please bear with me, if you will, and I'll make it up... promise!
is the best part. Not impressed? Let me fully explain. This is what was left after I spent five solid minutes just trying to get my door to open in the first place, broke two ice scrapers, spent roughly an hour to try to clean my car and finally just gave up. This was the freezing rain storm that came through at about 6:30 PM in Northeastern Ohio, and gave a solid 1/2 inch coating of ice by 7:30. The aftermath looked about like 
. Bottom line: let me apologize once again for the lack of substance. Due to the lack of any real network in my home it's kinda been lame. This added to it stinks. Weekly roundup will come tomorrow, but it will be in the late afternoon. Please bear with me, if you will, and I'll make it up... promise!
03 March 2008
Snow
Man, I can't wait for things to settle down. For example:
Cycling: How in the heck am I supposed to get in any good rides when it's constantly snowing, freezing, raining, freezing and snowing again? Not just any kind of snow but
kind of snow. The foot plus in about six or eight hours snow. I mean seriously, how the heck am I supposed to ride with that? I suppose I could get a 
Pugsley. But I have a moral problem having a bike that has car tires on it, I think.
Network: Yeah, the network is still down. As you know there was a problem with a misplaced magnet and a non-shielded wireless router. It sucks! I depend on my laptop for work. OK, that's a half-truth. I plan on sitting on my ass working from the couch over the weekend and couldn't. Positive side: I did manage to get the desktop up and on the net this weekend so I was able to work from my desk. Negative side: You're stuck with this crap again. Lesson: Magnets+routers=crappy weekend!
On a positive note, the wife signed up to do "Beauticontrol". Not really doing it as much as she's doing it for the discount and a couple of friends who will buy from her. Not important except to say that she bought this "Therma Del Sol" stuff.
Best stuff ever. It's a crazy strong peppermint bath soak, so I soaked in it this weekend... it made my entire weekend. Now I just need to get to the chiropractor and/or masseuse.
How am I doing?: Better than most, not as well as some.
Cycling: How in the heck am I supposed to get in any good rides when it's constantly snowing, freezing, raining, freezing and snowing again? Not just any kind of snow but
kind of snow. The foot plus in about six or eight hours snow. I mean seriously, how the heck am I supposed to ride with that? I suppose I could get a 
Pugsley. But I have a moral problem having a bike that has car tires on it, I think. Network: Yeah, the network is still down. As you know there was a problem with a misplaced magnet and a non-shielded wireless router. It sucks! I depend on my laptop for work. OK, that's a half-truth. I plan on sitting on my ass working from the couch over the weekend and couldn't. Positive side: I did manage to get the desktop up and on the net this weekend so I was able to work from my desk. Negative side: You're stuck with this crap again. Lesson: Magnets+routers=crappy weekend!
On a positive note, the wife signed up to do "Beauticontrol". Not really doing it as much as she's doing it for the discount and a couple of friends who will buy from her. Not important except to say that she bought this "Therma Del Sol" stuff.
Best stuff ever. It's a crazy strong peppermint bath soak, so I soaked in it this weekend... it made my entire weekend. Now I just need to get to the chiropractor and/or masseuse.
How am I doing?: Better than most, not as well as some.
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