I wish I could say 2008 ended with a bang and not a snap.
But, good news is I can go home today, with my surgery scheduled for Jan. 8th.
Everyone have a Happy (and safe) New Years and the rest of 2009 as well.
P.S. the next couple of months are going to be filled with boring healing/recovery stories and not the traditional exciting biking adventures of Don-o, sorry...
Bad news...
I decided to test the CX trail early Sunday morning before my family would sit down to a nice meal and then we would open our Christmas gifts, possibly a movie, and then some beers and board games.
But, all of those plans were scraped by what happened in the first 1/2 mile of my "short" ride.
As I got to the trail I noticed lots of icy patches, so I was glad I had put on the studded front tire. After just a short distance I came to a very flat frozen chunk of snowmelt and I decided to head to the snowpack on the edge, when the bike went out from underneath me. I had enough time to stick my right foot out to try and catch me, when I hit something hard. My foot bent back toward my face and I heard a loud snap. Needless to say I hit the ice and when I looked down at my foot, it was pointed way too far to the right. Broken! Oh crap!
So I laid there for a few seconds trying to make sure I wasn't dreaming, but nope this was really happening. I knew I was going to start to feel the pain very shortly, so I decided I needed to get back to the warmth of the car (which I could see but was about 1/2 mile of trail to get back there).
I used my bike (as best I could) as a crutch, and slowly made my way back. At one point the bike slide out a bit and I had to step down on my right foot to retain my balance. The pain was terrible and I really thought I was going to faint. I could feel my face heat up as I went light-headed for a moment. As I got to more snowpack and less ice, I swung my right leg up over the main tube of the bike and used my left leg to "scoot" back to the car. I threw the bike in (standing on one foot), hoped in and started it up to stay warm.
This is were I called my wife to come and get me (yes, she was mad I didn't call right away), but how do you explain, "I'm on the ice sheet, just past the second big oak tree on the east side of the trail heading toward Douglas"?
Anyway, I waited for her to arrive and off we went to the ER. But not before I got the "I knew something like this was going to happen" speech. Jeeze, sounds like my mom.
The ER staff did a good job of getting my biking gear off (boots, socks, and bibs) without cutting them all up. I think the begging and the tears helped.
After a series of X-rays, a CT scan, and then more X-rays of my knee, they told me the news. "You have a high ankle break on your right leg" and "You really know how to break 'em".
You can see the Tibia break, but can you find the Fibula break? That is the one that the Orthopedic Surgeons are worried about, because it has moved into the range of motion for the ankle joint.
So after they put the soft cast on, I stayed overnight while they watched for something called "compartment syndrome". Nasty nerve and muscle damage if you get this stuff.
Today (Tuesday) I had my consult with the Orthopedic Surgeons and it looks like surgery for the small bone and natural healing for the bigger bone. But they need to wait a week or so for the swelling to go down. "That's what she said".
Anyway, my entire right foot is a pretty color of blue-purple and pumped up nicely.
So after about 6 weeks of no weight, I might be in a walking cast.
I'm asking them for a Look cleat to be installed in the bottom of the walking cast...
But, all of those plans were scraped by what happened in the first 1/2 mile of my "short" ride.
As I got to the trail I noticed lots of icy patches, so I was glad I had put on the studded front tire. After just a short distance I came to a very flat frozen chunk of snowmelt and I decided to head to the snowpack on the edge, when the bike went out from underneath me. I had enough time to stick my right foot out to try and catch me, when I hit something hard. My foot bent back toward my face and I heard a loud snap. Needless to say I hit the ice and when I looked down at my foot, it was pointed way too far to the right. Broken! Oh crap!
So I laid there for a few seconds trying to make sure I wasn't dreaming, but nope this was really happening. I knew I was going to start to feel the pain very shortly, so I decided I needed to get back to the warmth of the car (which I could see but was about 1/2 mile of trail to get back there).
I used my bike (as best I could) as a crutch, and slowly made my way back. At one point the bike slide out a bit and I had to step down on my right foot to retain my balance. The pain was terrible and I really thought I was going to faint. I could feel my face heat up as I went light-headed for a moment. As I got to more snowpack and less ice, I swung my right leg up over the main tube of the bike and used my left leg to "scoot" back to the car. I threw the bike in (standing on one foot), hoped in and started it up to stay warm.
This is were I called my wife to come and get me (yes, she was mad I didn't call right away), but how do you explain, "I'm on the ice sheet, just past the second big oak tree on the east side of the trail heading toward Douglas"?
Anyway, I waited for her to arrive and off we went to the ER. But not before I got the "I knew something like this was going to happen" speech. Jeeze, sounds like my mom.
The ER staff did a good job of getting my biking gear off (boots, socks, and bibs) without cutting them all up. I think the begging and the tears helped.
After a series of X-rays, a CT scan, and then more X-rays of my knee, they told me the news. "You have a high ankle break on your right leg" and "You really know how to break 'em".
You can see the Tibia break, but can you find the Fibula break? That is the one that the Orthopedic Surgeons are worried about, because it has moved into the range of motion for the ankle joint.
So after they put the soft cast on, I stayed overnight while they watched for something called "compartment syndrome". Nasty nerve and muscle damage if you get this stuff.
Today (Tuesday) I had my consult with the Orthopedic Surgeons and it looks like surgery for the small bone and natural healing for the bigger bone. But they need to wait a week or so for the swelling to go down. "That's what she said".
Anyway, my entire right foot is a pretty color of blue-purple and pumped up nicely.
So after about 6 weeks of no weight, I might be in a walking cast.
I'm asking them for a Look cleat to be installed in the bottom of the walking cast...
Sat. 12/6/08
Big Jeff and I headed out from the Condos for a snowy ride on the CX trail. There was only one set of snowmobile tracks, so nothing was packed down very well. This led to some tough going as we headed to Douglas. About half-way there we heard the familar voice of Big Jim yelling to us from the trail. So we waited up as he doubled back and caught us.
The three of us headed north (into a nice cool stiff wind) hitting sections of the CX trail and other sections of the paved trail. At Douglas, Jim found a pair of doggie booties and he mentioned that he had spotted a couple and their dog earlier up the trail. So he stuck them in his pocket and we headed north. And sure enough here were the skiiers and their dog and they were wondering where the pooch had shed the booties. They were very thankful as we continued north.
Up the trail further we encountered some vehicle tire tracks and thought it was kids goofing around, but as we went further it became clear that the person in the vehicle was cutting firewood. About this time, Jim got too near the edge of the trail and the blacktop edge took him down, unfortunately I was too close behind and when I tried to avoid him, I too went down (with my bike landing on Jim's head). After we brushed off and made sure the bikes were OK, we headed continued north.
We passed the woodcutter (yes, he was still out there). And at the end of the wooded section, we turned around. Jim's water was starting to freeze and mine was starting to show signs of slush. As we got back to Douglas, Jeff decided he needed a closer look at the snow. Jim did not run him over, though.
About this time, Jim headed back to his home and Jeff and I continued to the Condos and the nice warm cars.
What fun.
The three of us headed north (into a nice cool stiff wind) hitting sections of the CX trail and other sections of the paved trail. At Douglas, Jim found a pair of doggie booties and he mentioned that he had spotted a couple and their dog earlier up the trail. So he stuck them in his pocket and we headed north. And sure enough here were the skiiers and their dog and they were wondering where the pooch had shed the booties. They were very thankful as we continued north.
Up the trail further we encountered some vehicle tire tracks and thought it was kids goofing around, but as we went further it became clear that the person in the vehicle was cutting firewood. About this time, Jim got too near the edge of the trail and the blacktop edge took him down, unfortunately I was too close behind and when I tried to avoid him, I too went down (with my bike landing on Jim's head). After we brushed off and made sure the bikes were OK, we headed continued north.
We passed the woodcutter (yes, he was still out there). And at the end of the wooded section, we turned around. Jim's water was starting to freeze and mine was starting to show signs of slush. As we got back to Douglas, Jeff decided he needed a closer look at the snow. Jim did not run him over, though.
About this time, Jim headed back to his home and Jeff and I continued to the Condos and the nice warm cars.
What fun.
Sun. 11/30/08
Big Jim and I headed out from the start of the Douglas Trail. With the light NW winds it was a good direction to head out of town. We warmed up on the trail, then hit the CX trail for some fun. We took the snow-covered blacktop sections where ever the CX trail was really rough. I can't wait for enough snow to smooth out the CX trail. Then we hit the CX protions where they were more fun to ride. At Pine Island, we turned around and were just starting back, when we spotted anothe bike rider heading toward us. It was Big Bruce back for another round. He apparently was waiting at the condos and spotted us going by. He wasn't ready, so he honked his horn, but Jim and I didn't hear it. So he played catchup the whole way to PI. Anyway, the three of us headed back, hitting a few CX sections and stayed on the trail for other sections. I dressed a bit too warm and by now the sweat was starting to make me feel the cold. So after we said goodbye to Bruce, Jim headed for home and I continued to the trailhead and to the car.
What a fun day to ride in the nice light snow. Now, bring on the heavy stuff...
What a fun day to ride in the nice light snow. Now, bring on the heavy stuff...
Sat. 11/29/08
Big Jim, Bruce, Jim T., and myself headed out from Dunn Brothers South on avery nice Saturday. Big Jim had sent out the note indicating a CX ride on the gravel roads SW of town, so we headed towards Salem Corners. We turned south on 104, when all of sudden Big Jeff showed up. He had a flat on his way to the starting point and decided to chase us down after he fixed it up. So we all continued south on gravel crossing over hwy 30 and then after a few more miles we turned west. Then we crossed over cty 3 and another mile or so, we turned north. Back across hwy 30, we continued north, then we made a jog west, then north again, and finally back east. Eventually we turned north again where we headed down into a nice little valley and up out the other side. Then we hit the blacktop where we turned east and headed back to Salem Corners and then on into Rochester.
Man, I was shot by the time I got home. I sure hope I'm not getting out of shape (as if I every was in shape).
Man, I was shot by the time I got home. I sure hope I'm not getting out of shape (as if I every was in shape).
Sat. 11/22/08
Big Jeff, Big Jim, Chris, and myself hit the CX path next to the Douglas trail on Saturday morning. Just a bit of snow, but ice. Jim came prepared with the dual-suspension mountain bike. Several sections were way worse than any washboard stuff. If I wouldn't have been clipped in, I'm sure I would have flown off the bike a couple of times.
The pace was nice a steady with Jim and Jeff doing most of the pace setting. At PI we turned back and headed for home. With the south winds the open sections were a bit cool. We all made it back, but not before Chris pulled out of his cleats. All that bouncing around must have loosen things up and all of sudden his egg-beater cleat wasn't attached to the bottom of his shoe. Luckily, he came prepared with a multi-tool and got the cleat out and re-attached, so he could ride home.
Can't wait for the white stuff to pad the trail a bit more...
The pace was nice a steady with Jim and Jeff doing most of the pace setting. At PI we turned back and headed for home. With the south winds the open sections were a bit cool. We all made it back, but not before Chris pulled out of his cleats. All that bouncing around must have loosen things up and all of sudden his egg-beater cleat wasn't attached to the bottom of his shoe. Luckily, he came prepared with a multi-tool and got the cleat out and re-attached, so he could ride home.
Can't wait for the white stuff to pad the trail a bit more...
VeloCX 11/08/08
With the cold and the rainy wet weather, I stayed indoors on Saturday, but it seems that a few brave souls went out to play.
Jeff looks like he's having fun...
So does Marty...
Even Big Steve got into the act...
Someday I'll "grow a pair" and make it out to one of these.
Jeff looks like he's having fun...
So does Marty...
Even Big Steve got into the act...
Someday I'll "grow a pair" and make it out to one of these.
Sun. 10/26/08
Big Jim, Big Jeff, and I met at the Condos for some fun in the wind. Jeff rode over from his house and he looked pretty tired by the time he pulled up. We jumped on the dirt trail and the trees provided a nice block for the wind (in most places). As we headed to PI, we encountered a number of larger tree branches (and whole trees) that had come down because of the wind. So we practiced our CX skills, by jumping off our bikes, moving the offending tree off the path, and then jumping back on the bikes to continue the ride. Unfortunately, we had to do this all the way to PI.
Then on our return trip, more (newly felled) trees were in our way. So again, we practiced our CX skills. After Jeff bottomed out on the edge of the snowmobile bridge (just north of Douglas), he noticed the back tire was getting low. We stopped in Douglas to give it a quick shot of air, but it wasn't too far down the trail before it was flat again. So, Jeff just rode it back to the condos like that. I had the Suburban, so we loaded both bikes in the back and I gave Jeff a ride home. Big Jim headed back home alone (and into the wind). I hope he made it...
Then on our return trip, more (newly felled) trees were in our way. So again, we practiced our CX skills. After Jeff bottomed out on the edge of the snowmobile bridge (just north of Douglas), he noticed the back tire was getting low. We stopped in Douglas to give it a quick shot of air, but it wasn't too far down the trail before it was flat again. So, Jeff just rode it back to the condos like that. I had the Suburban, so we loaded both bikes in the back and I gave Jeff a ride home. Big Jim headed back home alone (and into the wind). I hope he made it...
Thur. 10/16/08
Well, the crud is still hanging on abit. But I felt good enough today to do the 20 mile out and back. Light SSE winds were not a factor either direction and I didn't feel too bad for not seeing the bike for just over a week. This weekend is hectic, so I'm not sure how much riding I can sneak in...we'll see.
Wed. 10/08/08
After a week of feeling terrible, I finally got out on the bike for a few miles. I did my standard 20 mile out and back. There was a SW breeze, so I had to work a bit harder to get home. I did see Gary G. out there enjoying the nice October weather. All in all, a nice ride and I hope it helps clear up this crud that continues to hang on...
Sat. 09/27/08
We had 9 start from Dunn Brothers South on a cloudy, foggy morning. The winds were out of the NW, but the Treadman Duathalon was being held in the Douglas area, so we decided to stay away from the NW. We headed east out of town on cty 9. With the slight tailwind it was a wicked pace until we turned north on cty 7 and the headwinds slowed the pace. But now the wind was making it real fun at the front. We formed a rotating paceline and that helped give everyone a chance at the fun. We turned east again on cty 2 and then north on cty 10.
Up and over the rollers as we went past Carley State Park, then we turned west on cty 23 and headed for Elgin. Dave dominated the Elgin sign and the Olmsted County sign. So we all had to listen to him talk about it all the way back to town. As we neared cty 11 there were two ponies lose on the road and we stopped as they carefully went by us and headed back to their pen. Dave wanted to stop and ride them, we said NO! Bebee justed wanted to take them home (I'm not sure what for???). Again, we said NO! About this time we passed another group of cyclists who were heading east for Elgin. We then turned south on cty 11 andmade our way back to cty 9, where I headed for home and the others headed for town.
Great ride everyone (Big Dave, Dr. Tim, Big Jim, Bruce, Big Al, Dan, Bebee, and Tobias) and way to make my legs hurt...
No sign of Big Steve:
or Big Jeff:
but Big Jim was there:
I gotta find a picture of Big Dave...
Up and over the rollers as we went past Carley State Park, then we turned west on cty 23 and headed for Elgin. Dave dominated the Elgin sign and the Olmsted County sign. So we all had to listen to him talk about it all the way back to town. As we neared cty 11 there were two ponies lose on the road and we stopped as they carefully went by us and headed back to their pen. Dave wanted to stop and ride them, we said NO! Bebee justed wanted to take them home (I'm not sure what for???). Again, we said NO! About this time we passed another group of cyclists who were heading east for Elgin. We then turned south on cty 11 andmade our way back to cty 9, where I headed for home and the others headed for town.
Great ride everyone (Big Dave, Dr. Tim, Big Jim, Bruce, Big Al, Dan, Bebee, and Tobias) and way to make my legs hurt...
No sign of Big Steve:
or Big Jeff:
but Big Jim was there:
I gotta find a picture of Big Dave...
Wed 09/24/08
Big Jeff and I did the CX thing last night.
There was a lot of cyclists on the regular part of the trail. Must be the late-season peakers trying to cap off that mileage report with some bigger numbers. Anyway, the dirt trail was nice and quiet, except for the couple of walkers/joggers that were in the wrong place...
The CX trail wasn't too muddy either (even near Douglas). Only one real wet spot and you could easily go around it on the higher trail shoulder.
Big Jim did a nice job painting the bigger rocks (although, red is not my favorite color). But, there were several newly felled trees that need to be sawed out of the way. Jim you have a chainsaw, right? You can just pack the saw on your back and ride out there (about midway between PI and Douglas) and get those couple of biggies...Jeff would give you a big hug if you do.
Anyway, what a beautiful night for a ride. Even if it does get dark by 7:30pm.
There was a lot of cyclists on the regular part of the trail. Must be the late-season peakers trying to cap off that mileage report with some bigger numbers. Anyway, the dirt trail was nice and quiet, except for the couple of walkers/joggers that were in the wrong place...
The CX trail wasn't too muddy either (even near Douglas). Only one real wet spot and you could easily go around it on the higher trail shoulder.
Big Jim did a nice job painting the bigger rocks (although, red is not my favorite color). But, there were several newly felled trees that need to be sawed out of the way. Jim you have a chainsaw, right? You can just pack the saw on your back and ride out there (about midway between PI and Douglas) and get those couple of biggies...Jeff would give you a big hug if you do.
Anyway, what a beautiful night for a ride. Even if it does get dark by 7:30pm.
Sat. 09/20/08
Didn't make it up in time for the group ride, so I took my time and got ready and then headed for Chatfield. The winds were SW and felt like they were getting stronger as the day warmed up. The westward stretch out of Chatfield was the roughest, but then I got a nice push all the way back home.
Nothing out of the ordinary, just a nice 50 mile ride (just me and my friends)...
Nothing out of the ordinary, just a nice 50 mile ride (just me and my friends)...
Wed. 09/17/08
Met Big Jim and (eventually) Big Jeff at the condos for some off-road stuff. The trail was in very good condition with the occasional tree branch or rock to dodge. And you mix in a few gopher (or badger) holes to make it interesting. We saw quite a few people on the blacktop trail portion and we came upon a couple of people riding horses on the dirt section. We made it to just about PI, when we were fast losing the sunlight, so we headed back on the blacktop. Jim turned for home as we passed his intersection, while Jeff and I continued back to the condos. It was plenty dark by the time we got back.
Tues. 09/16/08
Just got in a quick 20 miler again. Met two others as they were riding back into town. Again, a gorgous September evening with light SSW winds.
Mon. 09/15/08
Did the quick 20 mile from my house. Nothing really out of the ordinary, allthough I did see Gary G. heading back to town on my way out. Slight SSW winds, so a bit of a headwind on the trip back in. A beautiful September evening...
Wed. 9/10/08
We started with 8 riders from Erik's at exactly 5:45pm. We headed north on the trail to Douglas. Along the way Kristi turned back (not feeling well, I guess). We turned west out of Douglas and up the Genoa hill. The group stayed together as we turned south on cty 5, but not before Paul had to turn back (he got paged, bummer). We then turned west again on cty 16 (I think) and headed for Mantorville. Steve and Craig battled it out for the town sign (I think Craig got it). After we reformed the group we continued south out of town and then east past the golf course. Now it was the winds turn to beat up on us. We all took turns at the front (what fun) and we rolled into Byron together. It was Steve's turn to take the town sign this time. At Byron Jim headed for home, while the rest of us continued north and then east, then north again to cty 4 and finally east (into the wind) for Rochester. We were losing light, so I and Dan switched on the tail lights as we got back into the traffic on cty 4. Craig peeled off as we neared town, while the rest continued for the trail and then back to Erik's.
I finished with almost 37 miles. Great ride everyone (Steve, Kristi, Paul, Craig, Jim, Dan, and Justin(the new guy)).
Next week, CX with Marty!!!
I finished with almost 37 miles. Great ride everyone (Steve, Kristi, Paul, Craig, Jim, Dan, and Justin(the new guy)).
Next week, CX with Marty!!!
Jesse James Ride
For anyone who is interested in one more long ride to test your fitness, there will be a group of riders from Rochester going to the Jesse James ride this weekend. The plan is to meet up in Northfield and depart from the school (at the flagpole) at 8:00am sharp.
They are planning on doing the 100 mile loop, but I think you can split off at several points.
Here is more information.
They are planning on doing the 100 mile loop, but I think you can split off at several points.
Here is more information.
Wed. 8/27/08
We started with 11 from Erik's. The rain had passed by earlier in the day. The roads were dry, but sections of the trail were still slick. This means I'll be cleaning my bike later on. And Steve brought out the new ride, just in time to break it in right.
We met Big Jeff on the trail right near Douglas. After some debate, we continued north on the trail until we got to cty 3, then we headed east for Oronoco. Past Todd's local watering hole and then over nwy 52.
Here we turned north and headed for Mazeppa. Marty and Trevor slugged it out for the cty sign (well, not really). What a fun stretch of road with everyone taking turns at the front and some nice rollers to heat up everyone's legs. Just before Mazeppa, we turned west for PI, but not before I snuck down the road an extra few feet to grab the coveted cty sign. I can almost taste the green jersey, now.
As we made our way to PI, we had not only the rollers to contend with, but now we were facing the south wind on the several stretches. Good thing we had 11 riders, as everyone took their pulls and then quickly headed back to the shelter of the pack. I just really wanted to stay in the back all the time, but Big Jeff and Big Jim said "NO". Dang, those guys are mean. We rolled into PI, without too much fuss over the first town sign. But everyone got whipped up for the second town sign after we crossed back over 52.
From PI, we headed south on cty 3. Big Jim didn't want to go home just yet, so he headed off on cty 5 for a few more miles. The rest of us continued (into the wind) for the Douglas trail. And from there we rolled back to Rochester. Along the way, people started spliting off for home as we were fast running out of daylight.
AS the remenants of the group turned for Erik's, I continued on the trail and then took Vally High back into town. From there I turned on 7th and headed east. About this time I got cutoff by a car turned left in front of me, so I decided it must be time to turn the lights on. I turned on the flashing taillight and I had packed a small LED flashlight, which fit nicely in my right hand while I was still able to hold onto the brakehood.
I motored home without any other incedents. Almost 65 miles and it was plenty dark when I got home (to the glares of the wife, who insisted I was nuts).
Great ride everyone (Marty, Steve, Kristi, Big Jim, Big Jeff, Eric, Craig, Jeff G., Jim, Trevor, and Mark).
Sounds like that may be all for the Wednesday Erik's rides for this season. Maybe it's time for some CX??? Mud anyone???
We met Big Jeff on the trail right near Douglas. After some debate, we continued north on the trail until we got to cty 3, then we headed east for Oronoco. Past Todd's local watering hole and then over nwy 52.
Here we turned north and headed for Mazeppa. Marty and Trevor slugged it out for the cty sign (well, not really). What a fun stretch of road with everyone taking turns at the front and some nice rollers to heat up everyone's legs. Just before Mazeppa, we turned west for PI, but not before I snuck down the road an extra few feet to grab the coveted cty sign. I can almost taste the green jersey, now.
As we made our way to PI, we had not only the rollers to contend with, but now we were facing the south wind on the several stretches. Good thing we had 11 riders, as everyone took their pulls and then quickly headed back to the shelter of the pack. I just really wanted to stay in the back all the time, but Big Jeff and Big Jim said "NO". Dang, those guys are mean. We rolled into PI, without too much fuss over the first town sign. But everyone got whipped up for the second town sign after we crossed back over 52.
From PI, we headed south on cty 3. Big Jim didn't want to go home just yet, so he headed off on cty 5 for a few more miles. The rest of us continued (into the wind) for the Douglas trail. And from there we rolled back to Rochester. Along the way, people started spliting off for home as we were fast running out of daylight.
AS the remenants of the group turned for Erik's, I continued on the trail and then took Vally High back into town. From there I turned on 7th and headed east. About this time I got cutoff by a car turned left in front of me, so I decided it must be time to turn the lights on. I turned on the flashing taillight and I had packed a small LED flashlight, which fit nicely in my right hand while I was still able to hold onto the brakehood.
I motored home without any other incedents. Almost 65 miles and it was plenty dark when I got home (to the glares of the wife, who insisted I was nuts).
Great ride everyone (Marty, Steve, Kristi, Big Jim, Big Jeff, Eric, Craig, Jeff G., Jim, Trevor, and Mark).
Sounds like that may be all for the Wednesday Erik's rides for this season. Maybe it's time for some CX??? Mud anyone???
Tues. 8/26/08
Had just enough time to sneak in my standard 20 mile route. On the way out a real neat looking three wheeled motorcycle passed me and then again on the way back he went by again.
I may just have to give up riding bicycle and buy one of these...
I may just have to give up riding bicycle and buy one of these...
Mon. 8/25/08
Added a few more miles to my 20 mile route tonight. With the wind out of the SE, I kept going that direction until I got to the Turkey farms south of Eyota. Then I turned around and got a nice push all the way home.
Nothing extraordinary happened, just a nice day for a nice ride.
Nothing extraordinary happened, just a nice day for a nice ride.
Sat. 8/23/08
It didn't look like there was going to be a large crowd for the Saturday ride, but as we waited to get going more showed up. So we eventually ended with 7 riders for our morning ride. The winds were a very stiff WNW, so we headed west for Mantorville. We motored along to Salem Corners with everyone having fun at the front. Then we moving on to Byron. With a few rollers and a couple of spots where the wind wasn't too bad, this was a nice stretch of road. At Byron, we turned west again for Mantorville, via the golf course road. Again, some nice rollers with some sheltered areas made this a fun stretch. We turned north at Mantorville and headed for cty 11. We stayed north on cty 11 all the way to the River Road, then Terry switched it up on us, by continuing north up the climb to the next intersection. There we turned east (finally a tailwind) and headed for PI. Along the way, some local country bumpkin, decided to pull his middle finger out of his bum long enough to wave it at us. He was heading west and it still bothered him that we were on "his" road. Anyway, nothing could bother us on such a perfect day. We rolled into PI, and stopped at the Kwik Trip for refreshments. We then headed south out of town on cty 3. The road by Big Jim's is tore up for construction, so the group decided to end the day on the trail.
I finished with almost 64 miles. Nice ride everyone (Big Al, Terry, Tim B., Jeff S., Allen, and Kristi).
I finished with almost 64 miles. Nice ride everyone (Big Al, Terry, Tim B., Jeff S., Allen, and Kristi).
Wed. 8/20/08
We started with 13 riders from Erik's Bike Shop. Marty had us head north on the trail to Douglas, where we picked up Jeff S. With the fairly brisk south winds, we then turned south on cty 3 and headed back toward town. Once we got to cty 4, we headed west until we got to where cty 3 headed south again. We followed that all the way to Salem Corners. Along the way, we got the a very nice paceline going. At Rock Dell the paceline broke up a bit, but the group stayed together on the climb heading south out of Rock Dell. Just about the time I grabbed a granola bar, we turned east on hwy 30. With the south cross winds, I soon found myself hung out, off the back of the group. I tried several times to catch back on, but was not making up the lost ground. Luckily, the group waited at the cty 15 turn. From there we all headed north. Shortyly after that, a group of 6 decided to turn it up a bit, while the rest of us kept a nice pace going back toward town. The group came back together for a short time on Salem Road, but then broke up again. Most everyone turned north on cty 104 and headed for the shop, while Jim, Tim, and I continued on Salem Road for town. First Tim turned for home, then Jim peeled off, and finally I headed off for home. I got home right around 8:15pm, and there was still plenty of daylight.
Great ride everyone.
Great ride everyone.
Mon. 8/18/08
I had the day off. So after I finished a few things on my "list", I decided to take the CX bike over to Eastwood for some offroad stuff. I did a few laps on the west edge of the park and got more comfortable with the rough trails before I headed over to the east side for more of the singletrack experience.
After a bit of riding, I happened upon two fellas who appeared to be enjoying a "walk" in the woods. Get a room! Anyway, I didn't have time (or want to make time) to worry about what some perverts were doing. I continued down the trail and did another lap or two on the west side, before I decided to call it quits and head for home.
I felt pretty good, but I still can't get the hang of jumping off and back on the bike very cleanly.
After a bit of riding, I happened upon two fellas who appeared to be enjoying a "walk" in the woods. Get a room! Anyway, I didn't have time (or want to make time) to worry about what some perverts were doing. I continued down the trail and did another lap or two on the west side, before I decided to call it quits and head for home.
I felt pretty good, but I still can't get the hang of jumping off and back on the bike very cleanly.
Sat. 8/16/08
There were 10 riders to start the Saturday Dunn Brothers ride (Todd, Marty, Kristi, Paul, Jeff G., Bruce, Tim B., and Joshua). We headed west out of town and not before we had gone a mile, we met up with Big Dave. We headed for Salem Corners and along the way, just past the Historical Society, we met up with Big Jim. So, now the 12 of us headed for Salem Corners.
We turned south for Rock Dell, when Joshua called out to the group that he had a flat. While changing the first flat, Joshua got his second flat (I guess the tube must be ALL the way in the the tire before you inflate the tire with a CO2 cartridge). After the repairs were complete, we continued to Rock Dell.
Then we headed west (into the wind). Everyone took turns at the front and the group moved along nicely. At cty 9 we turned north, again everyone took turns at the front. We crossed over hwy 14, then turned west to Dodge Center.
After a quick stop at the Dodge Center Kwik Trip, we headed north out of town and then we turned east for Mantorville. From there we kept going east until we got to cty 5. Just before cty 5 we passed another group going west. We turned south on cty 5 for Byron, while Big Jim peeled off for home.
The rest of us continued south at Byron, where Todd, Dave, Tim, and Joshua decided to really turn the heat up. Bruce went by with a big head of steam, so I jumped on his wheel and he pulled all the way up to the speedsters. We then turned east into Salem Corners and eventually back into to Rochester. Then everyone split for home.
I finished with 74 miles averaging close to 20 mph. Great ride everyone.
We turned south for Rock Dell, when Joshua called out to the group that he had a flat. While changing the first flat, Joshua got his second flat (I guess the tube must be ALL the way in the the tire before you inflate the tire with a CO2 cartridge). After the repairs were complete, we continued to Rock Dell.
Then we headed west (into the wind). Everyone took turns at the front and the group moved along nicely. At cty 9 we turned north, again everyone took turns at the front. We crossed over hwy 14, then turned west to Dodge Center.
After a quick stop at the Dodge Center Kwik Trip, we headed north out of town and then we turned east for Mantorville. From there we kept going east until we got to cty 5. Just before cty 5 we passed another group going west. We turned south on cty 5 for Byron, while Big Jim peeled off for home.
The rest of us continued south at Byron, where Todd, Dave, Tim, and Joshua decided to really turn the heat up. Bruce went by with a big head of steam, so I jumped on his wheel and he pulled all the way up to the speedsters. We then turned east into Salem Corners and eventually back into to Rochester. Then everyone split for home.
I finished with 74 miles averaging close to 20 mph. Great ride everyone.
Tues. 8/12/08
I did the 20 mile out and back again tonight. With a SSE 10 mph wind, I was fighting the wind on the way out. There was alot of traffic on the road tonight. I guess everyone was out to get a glimpse of me powering my machine. Met one other rider on the road as I was heading out and he was heading in. If I get my usual 60 miles in tomorrow night, I will be over 3500 miles for the year. I hope the weather is nice tomorrow.
Mon. 8/11/08
Just a quick 20 mile out and back with no juicy details to discuss. Pretty much a standard, quiet, peaceful, ride all by myself. Sometimes it's good to be alone...
Sat. 8/9/08
I missed the Saturday group ride. I oversleep. My brother and nephew had come into town, so we had a few Schells and stayed up late talking smart.
After they headed out, I changed and headed for my 50 mile Chatfield route. No real wind to speak of (except it got a bit stronger as the ride went on). Made my way past the Gun Club and east to Eyota, then south across I 90 and east again past the turkey farm. No Ed, Ed, and Eddie (the three black labs that loved to chase from the one farm just before the turkey farm) this year. Must be new tenants in the farmhouse or the dogs were all in the house. Turned south and I noticed I had three big corn combines coming up on me, so I turned it up a bit to stay ahead of them.
I turned south on cty 10 for Chatfield, while the combines continued east. Up and over the rollers on cty 10 and then down the nice descent into Chatfield. I didn't know this until I rolled into town, but Chatfield was having a parade and most of hwy 52 was closed and traffic was being routed on the back streets. So, I had to deal with the extra heavy traffic and the detour around the parade route. As I went by, I heard the usual comments, "Is that Lance Armstrong?", "Doesn't you butt hurt from sitting on that tiny seat?", "Why do you wear those funny clothes?", and "Get the $*&$(*&%!#@ off the road, you $@&^*&@$&*# fairy!".
After waving goodbye to my many fans and friends, I headed west out of town on cty 2. Up the hill on the new pavement and then into TT mode for the rollers all the way to cty 1. I turned north on cty 1, then west on hwy 30 (cty 1 is still closed near Fugel's Mill). Then I turned north on cty 20. Up the Cemetary hill and then again TT'ed it to the corner of cty 16 (I think), by St. Bridget's Church. By now I think the wind was from the north, so most of this and the remaining stretches home were going to be into the wind (nice). Into Simpson and then north to cty 11. I turned east and then north on cty 11, and finally north up the "all too familiar" cty 11 climbs.
I finished with just over 50 miles, some new friends, and some tired legs.
Did I mention that I love my new saddle?
Fizik Arione Wing Flex, don't leave home without it.
I can't wait for those endorsement checks to start rolling in...
Also no sign of Steve:
or Big Jim:
or Jeff:
After they headed out, I changed and headed for my 50 mile Chatfield route. No real wind to speak of (except it got a bit stronger as the ride went on). Made my way past the Gun Club and east to Eyota, then south across I 90 and east again past the turkey farm. No Ed, Ed, and Eddie (the three black labs that loved to chase from the one farm just before the turkey farm) this year. Must be new tenants in the farmhouse or the dogs were all in the house. Turned south and I noticed I had three big corn combines coming up on me, so I turned it up a bit to stay ahead of them.
I turned south on cty 10 for Chatfield, while the combines continued east. Up and over the rollers on cty 10 and then down the nice descent into Chatfield. I didn't know this until I rolled into town, but Chatfield was having a parade and most of hwy 52 was closed and traffic was being routed on the back streets. So, I had to deal with the extra heavy traffic and the detour around the parade route. As I went by, I heard the usual comments, "Is that Lance Armstrong?", "Doesn't you butt hurt from sitting on that tiny seat?", "Why do you wear those funny clothes?", and "Get the $*&$(*&%!#@ off the road, you $@&^*&@$&*# fairy!".
After waving goodbye to my many fans and friends, I headed west out of town on cty 2. Up the hill on the new pavement and then into TT mode for the rollers all the way to cty 1. I turned north on cty 1, then west on hwy 30 (cty 1 is still closed near Fugel's Mill). Then I turned north on cty 20. Up the Cemetary hill and then again TT'ed it to the corner of cty 16 (I think), by St. Bridget's Church. By now I think the wind was from the north, so most of this and the remaining stretches home were going to be into the wind (nice). Into Simpson and then north to cty 11. I turned east and then north on cty 11, and finally north up the "all too familiar" cty 11 climbs.
I finished with just over 50 miles, some new friends, and some tired legs.
Did I mention that I love my new saddle?
Fizik Arione Wing Flex, don't leave home without it.
I can't wait for those endorsement checks to start rolling in...
Also no sign of Steve:
or Big Jim:
or Jeff:
Wed. 8/6/08
Two words come to mind to describe our Wednesday ride, "No Shenanigans". That's right, everyone behaved themselves, no Tom-foolery, or Jeff-Foolery, or Steve-foolery, or Marty-foolery, (you get the picture) and I think we all had a great time (even in spite of the rain).
We headed out under dark skies and didn't even get to the trail before we were hit with large, cold rain. Once we got on the trail, there were a few spots where we had shelter from the rain. As we got near Douglas the trail openned up abit and the rain was pretty steady. We met Jeff in Douglas and the group turned west for Genoa. About this time the rain stopped and we just had to deal with the wet roads (and the rooster tails from the bike ahead of you). Marty and Jeff S. held a nice steady pace up Genoa hill, then Big Jim and I lead the group up to the corner. From there we turned north for PI.
Again the group kept a nice steady pace into PI. We kept rolling east out of PI toward Mazeppa. Over the rollers, along a beautiful stretch of country road, then the rain started again (just for a few minutes), then it stopped again. At Mazeppa, no one needed to stop so we kept going east on hwy 60, then we turned SE on cty 7 for Chef's hill. The pace was again very steady and everyone took turns at the front. At the foot of the climb, Big Jim and Jeff G. were on the front (I think) and they held a nice steady ~14 mph tempo up the hill, so everyone hung together on the climb. Chef and family were on the deck as we rolled to the stop sign, we waved and yelled "Hello", then turned south on hwy 63 for home.
Everyone took turns and again the pace was nice and steady all the way to Rochester. Even the Rochester town signs were uncontested (I thought maybe Steve, Eric, and maybe one or two others would go for it, but they didn't, 3 Gold stars for each of them).
Great ride and in spite of the rain, I had a great time. Thanks everyone (Steve, Kristi, Marty, Big Jim, Jeff S., Al, Ben, Craig, Jeff G., and Eric). I finished with 62 miles and was home before dark.
We headed out under dark skies and didn't even get to the trail before we were hit with large, cold rain. Once we got on the trail, there were a few spots where we had shelter from the rain. As we got near Douglas the trail openned up abit and the rain was pretty steady. We met Jeff in Douglas and the group turned west for Genoa. About this time the rain stopped and we just had to deal with the wet roads (and the rooster tails from the bike ahead of you). Marty and Jeff S. held a nice steady pace up Genoa hill, then Big Jim and I lead the group up to the corner. From there we turned north for PI.
Again the group kept a nice steady pace into PI. We kept rolling east out of PI toward Mazeppa. Over the rollers, along a beautiful stretch of country road, then the rain started again (just for a few minutes), then it stopped again. At Mazeppa, no one needed to stop so we kept going east on hwy 60, then we turned SE on cty 7 for Chef's hill. The pace was again very steady and everyone took turns at the front. At the foot of the climb, Big Jim and Jeff G. were on the front (I think) and they held a nice steady ~14 mph tempo up the hill, so everyone hung together on the climb. Chef and family were on the deck as we rolled to the stop sign, we waved and yelled "Hello", then turned south on hwy 63 for home.
Everyone took turns and again the pace was nice and steady all the way to Rochester. Even the Rochester town signs were uncontested (I thought maybe Steve, Eric, and maybe one or two others would go for it, but they didn't, 3 Gold stars for each of them).
Great ride and in spite of the rain, I had a great time. Thanks everyone (Steve, Kristi, Marty, Big Jim, Jeff S., Al, Ben, Craig, Jeff G., and Eric). I finished with 62 miles and was home before dark.
Sat. 8/2/08
There were 10 to start the ride from Dunn Brothers South today, Terry, Big Dave, Jim T., Jeff S., Big Jim, Al, Todd, Tobias, and Bruce. With no wind to speak of, the group decided to head south for the Racine area. We cut across town and headed out on cty 1. The pace was nice and steady with Dave taking the Simpson sign (I think). We turned west and then south on cty 20, because of the detour. We headed back to cty 1 on hwy 30 for a bit, then south again.
Terry and Todd had to get back earlier than the rest of us, so they turned and headed toward Racine, while the rest of the group continued south to Spring Valley.
We stopped at the convience store for water and food. For the first time that I can remember, Jeff was actually grossed out by something. Some guy was in the restroom for quite awhile and when he came out, Jeff just couldn't stand the smell the remained. So he passed on the reststop.
We headed south and then east on cty 12 and with everyone taking turns the pace stayed nice and high. What a beautiful day. We turned north for Wykoff, where my shear power and speed won me the coveted town sign. From there we hit the rollers north of Wykoff. Here is where Bruce and Big Jim pretended to be Energizer Bunnies. They just kept going, and going, and going, all at a blistering pace. Then it was Big Dave and Jeff's turn to make us all suffer a bit.
Finally (thankfully) we made it to Chatfield. Again we stopped for some water at the Kwik Trip. Some local fella told Dave that cty 2 to the west of town was open, so we decided we needed to see the new stretch of road. Dave and Jeff towed us up the now straight and fairly steady grade climb, that once was several curves and several steep spots. But the pavement was nice and it is a sweet stretch of road. I can now do my old 50 mile route again, yippie.
From here everyone took turns at the front and the pace stayed high all the way to cty 1. From here we backtracked to hwy 30, then north on cty 20. I turned east and headed home, while the rest of the group was headed past the airport (I think) and then were going to come into town on cty 8.
What a nice day for a pleasant ride with good friends (and Jeff). I finished with 90+ miles and averaged 19.5 mph (including my lazy pace into town and back home after I turned). Great ride guys.
Here's the map:
Steve, where were ya???
Terry and Todd had to get back earlier than the rest of us, so they turned and headed toward Racine, while the rest of the group continued south to Spring Valley.
We stopped at the convience store for water and food. For the first time that I can remember, Jeff was actually grossed out by something. Some guy was in the restroom for quite awhile and when he came out, Jeff just couldn't stand the smell the remained. So he passed on the reststop.
We headed south and then east on cty 12 and with everyone taking turns the pace stayed nice and high. What a beautiful day. We turned north for Wykoff, where my shear power and speed won me the coveted town sign. From there we hit the rollers north of Wykoff. Here is where Bruce and Big Jim pretended to be Energizer Bunnies. They just kept going, and going, and going, all at a blistering pace. Then it was Big Dave and Jeff's turn to make us all suffer a bit.
Finally (thankfully) we made it to Chatfield. Again we stopped for some water at the Kwik Trip. Some local fella told Dave that cty 2 to the west of town was open, so we decided we needed to see the new stretch of road. Dave and Jeff towed us up the now straight and fairly steady grade climb, that once was several curves and several steep spots. But the pavement was nice and it is a sweet stretch of road. I can now do my old 50 mile route again, yippie.
From here everyone took turns at the front and the pace stayed high all the way to cty 1. From here we backtracked to hwy 30, then north on cty 20. I turned east and headed home, while the rest of the group was headed past the airport (I think) and then were going to come into town on cty 8.
What a nice day for a pleasant ride with good friends (and Jeff). I finished with 90+ miles and averaged 19.5 mph (including my lazy pace into town and back home after I turned). Great ride guys.
Here's the map:
Steve, where were ya???
Thur. 7/31/08
One last ride for July. I did the 20 mile out and back with a pretty nice tailwind on the outward section. I had to stay in the drops on the way back (just because). I felt good the whole trip. I think my legs are starting to recover from the past weekends follies...
No sign of Steve...or Jeff...or Big Jim.
No sign of Steve...or Jeff...or Big Jim.
Wed. 7/30/08
We had 11 riders leave from Erik's last night. I don't think I have all the names but here's who I can remember (Steve G., Kristi, Marty, Al, Eric, Ben, Jim, Jeff G., Hewey, and Dewey). We followed Marty's pre-mapped route for every turn. After a bit of a wait for Jeff's front tire, we headed north on the trail until we got to cty 3, then we stayed on that until PI. No one was foul-hardy enough to sprint through the stop sign for the PI sign (good thing). We headed NW out of PI for Roscoe. Steve was threating to go for the sign, but in the end he didn't come around (Marty talked him out of it). So, Kristi took the sign uncontested. From there we turned south on some new blacktop, up the nice little climb and then turned south on cty 11. After another nice climb we all enjoyed the downhill section, until we had to slow for the stop sign at the bottom. Continueing south on cty 11 we got into a nice pace with a dual rotating paceline. everyone took turns out front (nice). We made our way into Mantorville, with Steve winning the sprint (nice "rocking the baby" salute). We stopped in Mantorville for some water, then headed south and east past the golf course. With the rollers, the group had plenty of opportunity to stretch their legs. We came back together and continued south and then turned on old 14 for Byron. Jim took the Byron sign uncontested (I wanted to go, but my legs said "NO"). At Byron, Jim and I headed south for Salem Corners while the rest of the group stayed on Marty's route and headed north for Oxbow. Jim peeled off near Bamber Valley School and I continued east past the fairgrounds and then for home. It was about 9:15pm when I rolled in, so plenty dark. I finished with 70 miles and a nice average of 19.5 mph. Great ride everyone.
Tues. 7/29/08
Did the 20 mile out and back just to stretch the legs. Warm, humid temps with a pretty good WSW wind. I breezed to the turn around and passed Mr. G and company as they were heading back into town (I waved and they waved back). I turned around and heading into the wind and for home. I felt very good and made sure to drink alot with the high temps.
No flats and no sign of Steve... :(
No flats and no sign of Steve... :(
Sat. 7/26/08
One for the Story Books...
Once upon a time there lived a brave knight who would load all of his bike gear into his vehicle and depart (at 4:00am) for an epic ride. But this year the knight decided to switch it up a bit...
Our story begins with a series of phone calls to help coordinate the next day's adventures. Our hero would depart from his castle and meet up with two other brave souls in Douglas at 8:30am. After they met in Douglas, the three amigos headed north for Pine Island. But shortly after they got started our hero had a flat tire and they had to stop and do some repair. Once fixed, they continued their adventure. At Pine Island they continued NW to Roscoe and at hwy 57, they met up with the Knights of the Round Wheels (the Silver Cycling boys). At this point our band of merry men, headed back into Pine Island for some refreshment at the local Kwik Trip.
Once their thirsts were qwenched, they headed east out of town for Mazeppa. Then they turned the steeds onto cty 7 and up the big hill to Chef's home. Chef was not there, but our group stopped and chatted with Chef's queen for a short time. Then they all mounted back up and headed for Zumbro Falls. The group turned east on hwy 60 until they came to cty 2, where they headed north for Lake City. At this point our hero was starting to wonder how long Big Jim and Jeff the Brave would continue on this adventure. They had only planned on a 4-5 hour tour. But they continued with the group all the way to Lake City.
Once there, our fellowship stopped at another local convenience store for nourishment. Again the brave two continued on with the group as they made their way to Wabasha. Just before Wabasha our hero encountered his second flat tire (bummer). After the repair was made the group continued into Wabasha for a hearty feast. Our Rochester Band of Brothers, then decided to call it a day. We bid fairwell to our compatriots and headed off alone.
Up and over the Mountain of Doom (or the climb out of Wabasha) they went, each taking turns at the front as there was a fairly steady wicked wind from the west. As the adventure started to wear on our hero, Big Jim moved to the front and pulled with all his might to help get our hero back to the safety of his castle. Our group stopped in Zumbro Falls for one last round of gatorade, then they made their final surge on to the village of Rochester.
Once in the village Big Jim and Jeff the Brave peeled off to their castles. As they did, they prepared for the onslaught of questions that would be hurled by their respective queens (i.e. where have you been, why were you gone so long, what did you buy me).
Our hero continued off alone, to make his way back through the Black Forest and onto the safety of his own castle (and a shower, something to eat, and a Schells Beer).
For their bravery and performance above and beyond the call of duty, both Big Jim and Jeff the Brave were knighted into the Holy Order of the Round Wheels.
Congratulations to both of you and I hope your queens weren't too mad...
Here's the adventure of our brave travelers:
Maybe next year, our hero can plan this thing out better and have a new rear tire???
Once upon a time there lived a brave knight who would load all of his bike gear into his vehicle and depart (at 4:00am) for an epic ride. But this year the knight decided to switch it up a bit...
Our story begins with a series of phone calls to help coordinate the next day's adventures. Our hero would depart from his castle and meet up with two other brave souls in Douglas at 8:30am. After they met in Douglas, the three amigos headed north for Pine Island. But shortly after they got started our hero had a flat tire and they had to stop and do some repair. Once fixed, they continued their adventure. At Pine Island they continued NW to Roscoe and at hwy 57, they met up with the Knights of the Round Wheels (the Silver Cycling boys). At this point our band of merry men, headed back into Pine Island for some refreshment at the local Kwik Trip.
Once their thirsts were qwenched, they headed east out of town for Mazeppa. Then they turned the steeds onto cty 7 and up the big hill to Chef's home. Chef was not there, but our group stopped and chatted with Chef's queen for a short time. Then they all mounted back up and headed for Zumbro Falls. The group turned east on hwy 60 until they came to cty 2, where they headed north for Lake City. At this point our hero was starting to wonder how long Big Jim and Jeff the Brave would continue on this adventure. They had only planned on a 4-5 hour tour. But they continued with the group all the way to Lake City.
Once there, our fellowship stopped at another local convenience store for nourishment. Again the brave two continued on with the group as they made their way to Wabasha. Just before Wabasha our hero encountered his second flat tire (bummer). After the repair was made the group continued into Wabasha for a hearty feast. Our Rochester Band of Brothers, then decided to call it a day. We bid fairwell to our compatriots and headed off alone.
Up and over the Mountain of Doom (or the climb out of Wabasha) they went, each taking turns at the front as there was a fairly steady wicked wind from the west. As the adventure started to wear on our hero, Big Jim moved to the front and pulled with all his might to help get our hero back to the safety of his castle. Our group stopped in Zumbro Falls for one last round of gatorade, then they made their final surge on to the village of Rochester.
Once in the village Big Jim and Jeff the Brave peeled off to their castles. As they did, they prepared for the onslaught of questions that would be hurled by their respective queens (i.e. where have you been, why were you gone so long, what did you buy me).
Our hero continued off alone, to make his way back through the Black Forest and onto the safety of his own castle (and a shower, something to eat, and a Schells Beer).
For their bravery and performance above and beyond the call of duty, both Big Jim and Jeff the Brave were knighted into the Holy Order of the Round Wheels.
Congratulations to both of you and I hope your queens weren't too mad...
Here's the adventure of our brave travelers:
Maybe next year, our hero can plan this thing out better and have a new rear tire???
Wed. 7/23/08
There was 16 riders to start the Erik's Wednesday ride and we picked up Jeff S. on the way out of town. Great ride everyone(Steve, Kristi, Todd, Tom, Al, Jeff G., Big Jim, Jim T., Jim H., Pat, Jeff S., Ben, Mike, Eric, Gunnar, and Hewey). Yes, I forgot a name (I think he had a blue jersey and I never got in a rotation with him to find out his name). The pace out of town was on the brisk side and it didn't take long before we had changed from the original (Big Jim's) route. We wound our way to Oronoco, where Tom grabbed the sign. Then on the way out of Oronoco, Big Jim had chain trouble. The group waited at the top of the hill and we headed east toward hwy 63. Then south for just a bit, then we turned east again and back north on cty 11 (back on the original route). Gunnar took the sign, but forgot to turn north and had to chase back on. The pace was nice and steady until the downhill, where everyone got into the aero position and picked up some major speed. Now it was Todd's turn for some mechanical work. Meanwhile the rest of the group got some much needed water at the convience store in Millville. We rolled out toward Hammond on cty 11, along the river. What a nice stretch of road. Todd decided he wanted to be KOM today and took an early jump for the Hammond sign. I think he had just enough to hold off Gunnar for the win. From there the group moved along to hwy 63 again. At this point we were starting to lose the daylight, so the group split up a bit as some of the riders needed to get home for their beauty sleep. Since I don't need any more beauty, I hung back with the beautiful people (you know who you are) and enjoyed the ride back into town. At 37th street I headed east and for home, while the rest headed back to the shop.
Here is a map of the route:
BTW, I picked up a new saddle from Steve and it was very comfy. He switched me from my 131mm to a 143mm (I think he meant to say, my butt is getting bigger).
Oh Yeah, no sign of the ever illusive Steve S. :(
Here is a map of the route:
BTW, I picked up a new saddle from Steve and it was very comfy. He switched me from my 131mm to a 143mm (I think he meant to say, my butt is getting bigger).
Oh Yeah, no sign of the ever illusive Steve S. :(
Tues. 7/22/08
Bill and I did the 20 mile out and back. Light winds from the NE meant we had a slight headwind going out and a nice push coming back in. Near the turnaround point, we pass Gary G. and a couple of others heading the other way. By the time we turned around they had a bit over a half a mile on us. We kept them in sight most of the way back. Bill had done a longer run earlier in the day and with my 200 mile day coming up on Saturday, we were really just out to stretch our legs. So racing was not in the cards. Sorry, Gary.
Bill mentioned that he felt really good, so maybe the base miles are finally starting to pay off...
Bill mentioned that he felt really good, so maybe the base miles are finally starting to pay off...
Sat. 7/19/08
We had 11 riders for the Saturday ride (Racing Bruce, Dr. Tim, Tim B., Big Al, Jeff S., Trevor, Mark, Jim T., Jeff G., and Mr. Steve). We decided to head east (the direction, not the band). So out of town on cty 9 to Whitewater Park. The pace was nice a civil with everyone taking turns at the front. Just a slight headwind on the way out. Dr. Tim and Jeff G. had to get back early, so they turned back just before we turned north into Whitewater. I had heard that the road leading into Whitewater had been redone. I heard wrong... It looks like they may still fix up the road, but not yet. After some whiteknuckle riding into Whitewater, Trevor and I led out for the town sprint sign, when here comes Jeff blowing past us. Trevor and Mark jumped on his wheel, with Bruce chasing hard. I think Trevor edged out Mark for the sign. We stopped for some water at the little store and decided to continue north out of the valley. This stretch still has some gravel sections and on one of them Bruce decided to get a closer look. Just a few scrapes on his knee and some bruises on his ego. After a nice paced climb out of the valley, we headed for Plainview. No sign to sprint for (bummer, I was all set to go). We stopped again for water (by now it was starting to heat up and everyone needed to stay hydrated. We went south out of Plainview, past the golf course, then we turned west on cty 23 (or 24) to Elgin. At Elgin, Jeff surprised us all by getting the town sign (right around the corner). We continued south out of Elgin and headed for cty 11. Again, everyone took turns at the front and the pace was nice and steady. We turned south on cty 11 and headed for Rochester. Viola Road is closed at Century High School, so we continued south on cty 11. After the long climb, there was still some spunk in some legs so the group split a bit as the spunky ones beat up on each other all the way to cty 9. Trevor and I continued south, while the rest turned west on cty 9 and headed into town.
Great ride guys. I finished with almost 70 miles and I had to wash all my gear because it was all soaked in sweat)...
Oh Yeah, *** Offical Steve Sighting ***
Great ride guys. I finished with almost 70 miles and I had to wash all my gear because it was all soaked in sweat)...
Oh Yeah, *** Offical Steve Sighting ***
Wed. 7/16/08
*** Offical Steve Sighting ***
There were 15 riders for the Wednesday Erik's ride. With the SSW winds we headed south, then west past Westfire. Then we turned south again on cty 104. We stayed on cty 104, until we turned east on 40th St. As we got near cty 8, we noticed the Recyclers regrouping at the corner. Some of them had continued south on cty 8 and we eventually caught that group. They hung with us until we turned east on 10th St NW into Stewartville. Al and I were up front for the sprint, so we turned up the pace to make sure everyone worked hard (I think Tom took the sign ahead of Steve). Some people stopped at the Kwik Trip, while others headed for the Casey's. After some water and snacks, we regrouped and headed west out of town on cty 6. Everyone took turns on the front and as we re-warmed up, the pace picked up to the mid 20s. We then re-caught the Recyclers group, but this time they didn't hang on to our wheels. We eventually turned north on cty 3 and headed for Rock Dell. Again the pace picked up with the tailwind and the eventual town sprint sign (I don't recall who took that sign, maybe Todd???). From there the pace stayed high, up the rollers and into Salem Corners. I turned east on Salem Road for home, while the group continued north on cty 3. I assume they hit Country Club Rd or cty 4 back to the shop. I finished with 65 miles, averaging 19.5 mph.
I was plenty tired when I got home.
Great ride (Marty, Jeff S., Big Jim, Tom, Todd, New Jim, Kristi, Al, Paul, Jeff G., Pat, Hewey, Dewey, (two guys I didn't catch their names), and of course the ever illusive Steve).
There were 15 riders for the Wednesday Erik's ride. With the SSW winds we headed south, then west past Westfire. Then we turned south again on cty 104. We stayed on cty 104, until we turned east on 40th St. As we got near cty 8, we noticed the Recyclers regrouping at the corner. Some of them had continued south on cty 8 and we eventually caught that group. They hung with us until we turned east on 10th St NW into Stewartville. Al and I were up front for the sprint, so we turned up the pace to make sure everyone worked hard (I think Tom took the sign ahead of Steve). Some people stopped at the Kwik Trip, while others headed for the Casey's. After some water and snacks, we regrouped and headed west out of town on cty 6. Everyone took turns on the front and as we re-warmed up, the pace picked up to the mid 20s. We then re-caught the Recyclers group, but this time they didn't hang on to our wheels. We eventually turned north on cty 3 and headed for Rock Dell. Again the pace picked up with the tailwind and the eventual town sprint sign (I don't recall who took that sign, maybe Todd???). From there the pace stayed high, up the rollers and into Salem Corners. I turned east on Salem Road for home, while the group continued north on cty 3. I assume they hit Country Club Rd or cty 4 back to the shop. I finished with 65 miles, averaging 19.5 mph.
I was plenty tired when I got home.
Great ride (Marty, Jeff S., Big Jim, Tom, Todd, New Jim, Kristi, Al, Paul, Jeff G., Pat, Hewey, Dewey, (two guys I didn't catch their names), and of course the ever illusive Steve).
Mon. 7/14/08
Bill and I did my standard 20 mile route. With light winds from the SSW, we really didn't notice much advantage or disadvantage either direction. Temps were nice in the low 70s. We passed one other rider as we headed back to home.
Sat. 7/12/08
*** Offical Steve Sighting! ***
Yes, it's offical, Steve has returned. He and 8 other riders were there for the Saturday ride from Dunn Brothers South.
We headed for Salem Corners (Jeff won the sign, I think), then south to Rock Dell (??? for the town sign). From there we headed west to cty 9 and then north towards Dodge Center. The group worked nicely into the headcross all the way to cty 14. When we got to old 14, we turned west again and then north. We stayed on this road for only a short time, then we turned east and headed for Mantorville. Terry had to get back so he headed for Rochester as we rolled into Mantorville (BTW, Steve took the town sign, thx Tim). The rest of us stopped at the convience store for water and snacks. Then it was off to the north again, east on 16 for just a short time, then north on cty 11. We turned east again on cty 22. Finally a tailwind. South on cty 5, then east on cty 14 and down Genoa hill (were the pace picked up until after the town sign). I think Trevor held off a hard charging Dr/ Tim for the win. We turned south at Douglas (I was too far back to see who won) and Jeff and I cruised back to Rochester on cty 4, while the others headed south on 104.
I finished with almost 72 miles averaging 19 mph. Great ride guys (Terry, Al, Tim, Dr. Tim, Jeff, Jim T., Trevor, and Steve).
BTW, Steve did pretty good for the new guy...
Yes, it's offical, Steve has returned. He and 8 other riders were there for the Saturday ride from Dunn Brothers South.
We headed for Salem Corners (Jeff won the sign, I think), then south to Rock Dell (??? for the town sign). From there we headed west to cty 9 and then north towards Dodge Center. The group worked nicely into the headcross all the way to cty 14. When we got to old 14, we turned west again and then north. We stayed on this road for only a short time, then we turned east and headed for Mantorville. Terry had to get back so he headed for Rochester as we rolled into Mantorville (BTW, Steve took the town sign, thx Tim). The rest of us stopped at the convience store for water and snacks. Then it was off to the north again, east on 16 for just a short time, then north on cty 11. We turned east again on cty 22. Finally a tailwind. South on cty 5, then east on cty 14 and down Genoa hill (were the pace picked up until after the town sign). I think Trevor held off a hard charging Dr/ Tim for the win. We turned south at Douglas (I was too far back to see who won) and Jeff and I cruised back to Rochester on cty 4, while the others headed south on 104.
I finished with almost 72 miles averaging 19 mph. Great ride guys (Terry, Al, Tim, Dr. Tim, Jeff, Jim T., Trevor, and Steve).
BTW, Steve did pretty good for the new guy...
Wed. 7/09/08
There were 16 riders to start the Wednesday night ride. Marty had another douzy of a route pre-mapped and we only ended up altering it a little bit. We headed north on the trail. Before Douglas, we notice this cloud of dust up ahead on one of the gravel roads. The group had to slow down in case it was a car or a Mack truck, but instead it turned out to be Jeff S. giving his brand new frame a taste of the CX life. We (all 17 of us) rolled through Douglas and headed for cty 3. Here we met up with Big Jim. So the gang was all together and the fun could begin. We headed east to Oronoco, past Tillies (Todd's local watering hole). And then across hwy 52, and then north on cty 11. Here the wind and the hills started to seperate the group a bit. But we all stopped and got water in Mazeppa. We headed east out of Mazeppa and then east/southeast on cty 7. With the tailwind the pace picked up to the 25 mph range and everyone was taking turns at the front. Then we hit Chef-tel hill. I hung out behind Jeff S. (no, not because of the scenary), cause he was setting a nice tempo up the first part of the climb. Several guys had launched an early surge on the hill, but I knew there was plenty of climbing to come. Jeff and I moved up nicely through the group when we caught Big Jim. He was pinned in behind a couple of guys who were fading. Next we came up to Marty, I figured now was the time for my patented KOM move. I mentioned to Marty the Big Jim wanted to ask him something and then I told Jeff that his new frame was dirty. Both tactics gave me the seconds I needed, I was off for the top. By the time Big Jim got unstuck, and Jeff and Marty had realized my deception, it was too late. I was able to barely hold them off for the grand prize. From there the rest of the ride was a blur. I was still replaying the spectacular climb over and over in my head. Anyway, we waited for everyone at the hwy 63 corner, then we headed south for town. Kristi was going to make a move for the county sign, but was too much a lady and let those meanies at the front have it (she could have taken it easily). Then it was Todd's turn to make everyone suffer a bit, he got out front and rode like a man posessed. I don't know who got the town sign (I was too far back), but I know Marty was up there. I turned east on East Circle Drive and headed for home, while the rest of the group headed west for the shop. Great ride everyone (Marty, Steve, Jeff S., Big Jim, Todd, Al, Paul, Pat, Kristi, Tim, Jim, New Jim, Jeff G., Hewey, Dewey, Lewey, and Chris).
OK, I forgot a few names (did I mention that I replayed the dramatic climb over and over in my head on the ride home)...
OK, I forgot a few names (did I mention that I replayed the dramatic climb over and over in my head on the ride home)...
Mon. 7/07/08
Did the 20 mile out and back. Had a 20+ mph tailwind on the out portion and a 20+ mph head wind on the back protion (I think the wind picked up a bit on me). Passed one other rider out there, otherwise just a pleasant ride.
Wed. 7/2/08
There were 8 riders for the Erik's Wednesday ride. Marty had the route pre-mapped (even though we did change the beginning and end abit). After some delay, we headed north on the trail.
At Douglas, we came up on a group for 6 or so cyclists (maybe the Recyclers???). Instead of heading east at Douglas, we continued north on the trail (and out of the wind) to cty 3. There we turned east and continued to Oronoco on cty 12. Once across hwy 52, we got back on Marty's mapped route and headed north into and out of Oronoco. This stretch was hilly and into the wind, but a great route.
Just before Mazeppa, I noticed my front tire was losing air. Dang! So we stopped while I did my mechanic thing. Marty finally got to see what a "real" bike feels like in his hands. After I wrestled my bike back from Marty, we were off to PI. Again, a beautiful stretch of road. Steve actually went around Kristi to take the PI sign. Man, talk about dirty looks(from Marty I mean).
We headed south out of PI on cty 3 and back to Douglas. As expected the pace picked up for the Douglas sign. Marty and I were out front pulling, when Steve came by. I noticed no one on his wheel, so I jumped to catch him. I did notice a shadow, so I knew someone had come with me. I caught Steve, but instead of sitting back, I kept going around Steve(bad move). Steve jumped on my wheel and used my draft to come around and get me right at the sign. So, the overall sprinter of the night award has to go to Steve.
Marty had the route going south to cty 4, but the group decided they had enough fun and we hit the trail for home. I stayed on the trail to Valleyhigh and headed to 7th street. Right near the RAC corner, I noticed 3 riders up ahead. I thought maybe it was the RC&F group, but they went past the shop and turned south at the intersection. So I guess it was some Recyclers (or just a group out for a ride).
They must have been worried about me catching them, as they all kept looking over their shoulders. No worries guys, I was in no mood to race.
Anyway, I got home with just over 63 miles. Time for a shower and something to eat (no Schells tonight, maybe over the weekend...).
Great ride Marty, Steve, Kristi, Ben, Pat, Jeff G., and Peter.
P.S. I vote this to be the unofficial default route for the Wednesday rides.
Did I mention it was a great route???
At Douglas, we came up on a group for 6 or so cyclists (maybe the Recyclers???). Instead of heading east at Douglas, we continued north on the trail (and out of the wind) to cty 3. There we turned east and continued to Oronoco on cty 12. Once across hwy 52, we got back on Marty's mapped route and headed north into and out of Oronoco. This stretch was hilly and into the wind, but a great route.
Just before Mazeppa, I noticed my front tire was losing air. Dang! So we stopped while I did my mechanic thing. Marty finally got to see what a "real" bike feels like in his hands. After I wrestled my bike back from Marty, we were off to PI. Again, a beautiful stretch of road. Steve actually went around Kristi to take the PI sign. Man, talk about dirty looks(from Marty I mean).
We headed south out of PI on cty 3 and back to Douglas. As expected the pace picked up for the Douglas sign. Marty and I were out front pulling, when Steve came by. I noticed no one on his wheel, so I jumped to catch him. I did notice a shadow, so I knew someone had come with me. I caught Steve, but instead of sitting back, I kept going around Steve(bad move). Steve jumped on my wheel and used my draft to come around and get me right at the sign. So, the overall sprinter of the night award has to go to Steve.
Marty had the route going south to cty 4, but the group decided they had enough fun and we hit the trail for home. I stayed on the trail to Valleyhigh and headed to 7th street. Right near the RAC corner, I noticed 3 riders up ahead. I thought maybe it was the RC&F group, but they went past the shop and turned south at the intersection. So I guess it was some Recyclers (or just a group out for a ride).
They must have been worried about me catching them, as they all kept looking over their shoulders. No worries guys, I was in no mood to race.
Anyway, I got home with just over 63 miles. Time for a shower and something to eat (no Schells tonight, maybe over the weekend...).
Great ride Marty, Steve, Kristi, Ben, Pat, Jeff G., and Peter.
P.S. I vote this to be the unofficial default route for the Wednesday rides.
Did I mention it was a great route???
Mon. 6/30/08
I had just enough time to get in my typical 20 mile out and back. Light winds, so no real advantage either direction. At the turn around point, I decided to crank it up a bit. And I felt pretty good by the time I got home.
Sat. 6/28/08
The skies were bright blue, but on the western horizon there was some much darker clouds heading this way. So I headed for Dunn Brothers, just in case there was anyone waiting to ride (there was no chatter on the email). As I rode by, I didn't see anyone standing there. So I kept heading west out past Bamber Valley school and out on cty 8. As I cleared the hill, I could see the rain coming in. I hoped that I could get to the airport turn before it hit, but I didn't make it. So, I rode almost all the way to Simpson in light rain. Then the roads dried up a bit as I turned north on cty 1 and headed home. Not as many miles as I would have liked for a Saturday, but at least I didn't get too soaked.
The rest of the day was spent cleaning the basement...and cleaning my bike.
The rest of the day was spent cleaning the basement...and cleaning my bike.
Wed. 06/25/08
Got out with the group from Erik's last night. We started with 12, quickly added Jeff, and added Bill M. out on the road. There were two routes mapped out, so the group decided to do the south route, primarily because of the wind direction. We headed down the Douglas trail to Valley High, then followed the path south to 19th St. We headed west on 19th until we got to cty 104. We follwed 104 south to Salem Road. We turned west to Salem Corners, where a long sprint took place with Marty claiming the prize (Jeff's new bike has it's first taste of defeat). We turned south towards Rock Dell. We tried to get a paceline going, but there were too many people who were having a hard time figuring out how a paceline should work. So we dropped back into a two-by-two configuration, but not before Jim and Big Jim decided to beat up on each other for a bit. Eventually they slowed and the group was together for the Rock Dell Sprint. Todd took a strong lead, with a group of 4 on his wheel. Out of nowhere comes Big Jim to blow by everyone and take the sign.
Just south of Rock Dell we passed Steve (I think). He waved:
We kept moving south, where we met Bill, who decided to join us for a bit. We continued south across hwy 30 and onto cty 6. From there we turned east for Stewartville and some water. With the tailwind, the pace picked up and everyone took turns at the front. After a quick water stop, the group headed back to High Forest and then back to Rochester on cty 8. I continued east on hwy 30, then north on cty 20 and into Simpson. From there I headed for home. I finished with just over 55 miles and I was a bit tired (and thirsty).
Great ride everyone.
No Schells tonight, but there is always tomorrow...
Just south of Rock Dell we passed Steve (I think). He waved:
We kept moving south, where we met Bill, who decided to join us for a bit. We continued south across hwy 30 and onto cty 6. From there we turned east for Stewartville and some water. With the tailwind, the pace picked up and everyone took turns at the front. After a quick water stop, the group headed back to High Forest and then back to Rochester on cty 8. I continued east on hwy 30, then north on cty 20 and into Simpson. From there I headed for home. I finished with just over 55 miles and I was a bit tired (and thirsty).
Great ride everyone.
No Schells tonight, but there is always tomorrow...
Mon. 6/23/08
Did the quick 20 mile out and back. Had a slight headwind on the way out and nice tailwind back to home. Passed several others out on the ride. Then I had a nice juicy grilled steak. Yum.
Oh, and a couple of Schells...
Oh, and a couple of Schells...
Sat. 06/21/08
Got to Dunn Brothers for the traditional Saturday ride. 5 others were there ready to go (Tim B., Jeff G., Big Jim, Dr. Tim, and Jeff S.) Jeff brought his new bike so we all drooled over it for awhile. The winds were out of the west and predicted to pick up and change to the NW. I offered up a route that I had really wanted to do fro some time and everyone seemed to be OK with it so we headed to Salem Corners and on to Byron. From Byron we kept heading west to Kasson and then on to Dodge Center. We stopped at the Kwik Trip for water and at the time Dr. Tim and Jeff G. headed back to Rochester. The 4 of us continued out of town heading west on cty H and then we headed south on cty 5. With the tailwind, we really started to move along (between 22 and 25 mph). We stayed on cty 5 past hwy 30 and all the way to cty 1, where we turned east into Waltham. We continued east to Sargeant and stayed east until we got to cty 10, where we headed north. Cty 10 turns into cty 6 as it heads east to High Forest. We turned north on cty 8, but we were running out of water, so we made a quick stop in Stewartville and then headed back to cty 8 and on into town. Just before Bamber Valley School an oncoming car hit a deer that had jumed out of the north ditch. The impact sent the deer spinning across the road, just ahead of Jim and just behind Tim. We stopped and made sure the elderly couple in the car were OK, called 911, and then proceeded back into town. Just as we got to Salem road, here came a large group of covered wagons, who were heading out of town on cty 8. From there I headed for home. I finished with around 93 miles, tired legs, and a hungry stomach.
Here is the map:
Oh and BTW, Jeff broke in his new bike by showing it how to win 6 out of 6 town sprint signs.
P.S. We all let him win, so the new bike didn't see how slow he really is...
Here is the map:
Oh and BTW, Jeff broke in his new bike by showing it how to win 6 out of 6 town sprint signs.
P.S. We all let him win, so the new bike didn't see how slow he really is...
Fri. 6/20/08
Man, it was warm today. I did the 20 mile route and was really soaked by the time I got home. Passed Gary "the G-man" as he was heading back to town and on my way back I passed one other fellow. Sort of windy on the way back, too.
Wed. 6/18/08
We had 13 riders start from Erik's. I'll see if I have them all, first Team Erik's (Marty, Steve, Scott "The Bossman", Chris "Nice Helmet") and an assorted cast of characters (Todd, Tom, Paul, Al, Jim T., Kristi, Steve R., Pat, and myself). Marty had the route mapped out beforehand, so we headed north on the Douglas trail. At Douglas we hooked up with Jeff. We turned west up Genoa hill (Steve wanted the sign real bad), then north on cty 5. We missed the turn on cty 22 (so much for the pre-mapped route) and continued on cty 5 until we got to PI. From there we turned west on the river road all the way to Berne. The group was working real smooth at this point and everyone took their turn at the front. We turned south on hwy 57 and headed for Mantorville. Marty and "The Bossman" were on the front and with no room to spare, they had to pull us most of the way to Mantorville. Where Tom and Scott duked it out for the sign. Some needed water (others needed to get rid of some water), so the rest continued up the hill to wait at the golf course road. After regrouping, the group headed east past the golf course and again kept a nice rotation of fresh riders at the front. We turned towards Byron, where Tom wanted the town sign even more than Steve. At Byron, the group headed north and eventually east on cty 4 for Rochester. I headed south at Byron for Salem Corners and then back into Rochester and then home.
Here is my route:
Great ride and maybe next time Jeff will bring his good bike...
Here is my route:
Great ride and maybe next time Jeff will bring his good bike...
Tues. 6/17/08
Got out for a nice ride and decided to head for Dover. Once I got there, I was feeling good enough (or so I thought) to continue to cty 9. I followed cty 9 (with a nice headwind) all the way back to Rochester and then jumped on cty 11 for home.
Here's the map:
Nothing to report, except I was more tired than I would have liked...
Here's the map:
Nothing to report, except I was more tired than I would have liked...
Mon. 6/16/08
Tried the ride from DAHLC last night to see what the ride was like. I had heard that the previous week was more cut-throat than advertised. We had 6 riders for this ride (3 guys and 3 gals). Charlie and Deb were leading the ride and had the 20 mile route pre-mapped. With the NW winds we headed for the Douglas trail. We rode that until Douglas, then turned east to the hwy 52 frontage road. Then south and west on 65th. Then we headed south on 50th Ave until we got to cty 4. Here we turned west for a short stretch then we turned south through the new development and came back in from there on the road the runs past the RAC. I headed for home after we got back to the DAHLC and decided to put on some more miles up by Century. Then turned for home.
Sun. 6/15/08
No time for riding this weekend... :( With my parents 50th Anniversary Party at our house on Saturday, I had plenty of things on the "You Better Do" list. And there were still a bunch of clean up details left over for Sunday. Sorry for missing the 8:00am ride Big Jim and Jeff...
I hear Jeff has a new ride. I didn't get to see it up close, yet.
But here is a picture Big Jim took:
I suppose now Steve will need a new toy...
I hear Jeff has a new ride. I didn't get to see it up close, yet.
But here is a picture Big Jim took:
I suppose now Steve will need a new toy...
Thur. 6/12/08
Was going to do the normal 20 mile route, but I felt too good to stop. So, I continued south, then east to cty 10. From there I went east on cty 10 and then north into Dover. At Dover, I turned west and headed back to Eyota. I finished with just over 34 miles. No mishaps to report...
Tues. 6/10/08
Got in a quick 20 miles and then had to get the fertilizer on the lawn before it rains. Even though it didn't rain last night, it might today (bad for the Wednesday ride)...
Yesterday, I did finally find out Paul's secret to going fast. I caught him at his favorite snack shop (Carrol's Corn) eating popcorn. Not the caramel or cheese, but the regular popcorn. So if you want to keep up with Paul, better get yourself some Carrol's Corn today. Heh, I sound like an info-mercial...
Hopefully the bad weather holds off for the ride Wednesday ride (I hope, I hope, I hope).
Yesterday, I did finally find out Paul's secret to going fast. I caught him at his favorite snack shop (Carrol's Corn) eating popcorn. Not the caramel or cheese, but the regular popcorn. So if you want to keep up with Paul, better get yourself some Carrol's Corn today. Heh, I sound like an info-mercial...
Hopefully the bad weather holds off for the ride Wednesday ride (I hope, I hope, I hope).
Mon. 6/09/08
Did the 20 mile out and back tonight. Had a real nice tailwind going out and a horrible headwind coming home. Oh well, miles are miles...
Sat. 6/07/08
Even with the threat of severe thunderstorms, we had 7 foolish guys to attempt the Saturday ride (Dr. Tim, Big Jim, Al, Jeff S., Dan, Jeff G., and me). We headed out on cty 1 for Simpson. AS we neared Simpson, we noticed the skies to the west were getting quite a bit darker (a sign of things to come). After Simpson, we turned east on "rattlesnake" road for Marion. At Marion, the group split, as some wanted to go through town and avoid hwy 52, while others rode up hwy 52 to cty 19. I went through town with that group. As we were heading out of town, a lady driving a van pulled up and told us that severe thunderstorms warnings had been issued and were going to hit the area at 9:30am (it was 9:00am at the time). We caught up with the others and told them the good news. Dr. Tim and I decided to head for home, while the others continued south on cty 19 for hwy 30. Dr. Tim and I headed north on cty 19 headed for the back side of Chester Woods. At the top of the big downhill, it started to sprinkle. By the time we hit the bottom, it was pouring. We turned north and then east on the "gun club" road. Dr. Tim turned on the "Camp Kahlor" road and headed for home, while I continued north and home. Needless to say I was soaked by the time I got there.
I wonder how the others faired???
I just finished cleaning my bike (I dumped about a 1/4 cup of water from the frame).
I wonder how the others faired???
I just finished cleaning my bike (I dumped about a 1/4 cup of water from the frame).
Wed. 6/04/08
We had 14 people start out from Erik's on Wednesday. Let's see if I can remember the names (Jeff S., Big Jim, Beebe, Tom, Marty, Steve, Todd, Jeff G., Al, Kristi, Paul, Sam, Steve R., and myself). Marty laid the law down before we headed out and everyone on the group agreed to keep it civil and have a good, safe time. We decided to do the P-R-P (Pine Island, Roscoe, Pine Island) route backwards. We rolled out to Douglas on the trail, then continued on the trail until we hit cty 3. We turned west and headed for PI.
Just before PI, we encountered some recently released juvenile deliquents, one of them decided he was done with his happy meal and threw what was left (including his chocolate milk) at us.
The helmet-cam caught a picture of the passenger:
He must have wanted the Pretty, Pretty Princess Pony, instead of the Hot Wheels race car for his prize.
Anyway, the group kept a nice pace going all the way into PI, then we turned left on the "river road". The pace picked up to a nice steady tempo as we rolled west. When we got to cty 11, we turned north up the big hill, ouch. We rolled into Roscoe and turned east. This stretch of road is very nice and I think everyone in the group enjoyed the nice pace. About this time we got into a pattern of everyone taking short, hard pulls at the front and we really moved along, until the PI town sign neared, where the game was on. I think Steve took the sign, just ahead of a hard-charging Marty. We rolled into PI, then south through town and back to cty 3. We stayed on cty 3 all the way to Douglas. Jeff was polite and waved at Jim's yard ornament, as we went by. I think it waved back. As we crested the hill just north of Douglas, everyone released the horses and the game was on again. Lots of shifting and jockeying for postition. Ultimately, it was Marty squeaking by to claim the big prize.
The helmet-cam caught a picture of Tom at the finish line:
We regrouped again and headed for the trail. Big Jim decided he needed more work and headed for the Genoa hill, I turned east and headed for home, while the rest of the crew headed back to Erik's (I think via the trail).
My legs were pretty shot by the time I got home, the helmet-cam caught my reaction to the ride:
I hope that isn't a rash developing...
Nice ride everyone.
BTW, Steve S. was mildly upset he missed the fun:
Just before PI, we encountered some recently released juvenile deliquents, one of them decided he was done with his happy meal and threw what was left (including his chocolate milk) at us.
The helmet-cam caught a picture of the passenger:
He must have wanted the Pretty, Pretty Princess Pony, instead of the Hot Wheels race car for his prize.
Anyway, the group kept a nice pace going all the way into PI, then we turned left on the "river road". The pace picked up to a nice steady tempo as we rolled west. When we got to cty 11, we turned north up the big hill, ouch. We rolled into Roscoe and turned east. This stretch of road is very nice and I think everyone in the group enjoyed the nice pace. About this time we got into a pattern of everyone taking short, hard pulls at the front and we really moved along, until the PI town sign neared, where the game was on. I think Steve took the sign, just ahead of a hard-charging Marty. We rolled into PI, then south through town and back to cty 3. We stayed on cty 3 all the way to Douglas. Jeff was polite and waved at Jim's yard ornament, as we went by. I think it waved back. As we crested the hill just north of Douglas, everyone released the horses and the game was on again. Lots of shifting and jockeying for postition. Ultimately, it was Marty squeaking by to claim the big prize.
The helmet-cam caught a picture of Tom at the finish line:
We regrouped again and headed for the trail. Big Jim decided he needed more work and headed for the Genoa hill, I turned east and headed for home, while the rest of the crew headed back to Erik's (I think via the trail).
My legs were pretty shot by the time I got home, the helmet-cam caught my reaction to the ride:
I hope that isn't a rash developing...
Nice ride everyone.
BTW, Steve S. was mildly upset he missed the fun:
Sun. 6/01/08
We had 7 guys take off from Dunn Brothers South. With light WNW winds (but expected to increase) we headed for Salem Corners. The sprint for the town sign was close. 
Then we continued to Byron, where again the sprint was close.
This was a slight downhill finish.
We headed to Mantorville, where again the big dogs faught it out.
After a quick water stop we headed north for PI. Along the way, we passed Big Jim heading south. He gave us a wave (I think it was a wave) and tore down the road.
At PI, the sprint was on again, this time a slight uphill finish.
After some more water and food, we headed back to Byron. Along the way we passed Jason out for his ride. I think he waved also. At Byron, the battle was on again.
Then onto Salem Corners, good thing there is no sign there. Then we continued on into Rochester, where Big D broke off for more miles. Then I headed for home.
Here is the route:
Great ride guys (Jim T., New Shorts Bruce, Al, Jeff G., Tim B., and Dave).
Then we continued to Byron, where again the sprint was close.
This was a slight downhill finish.
We headed to Mantorville, where again the big dogs faught it out.
After a quick water stop we headed north for PI. Along the way, we passed Big Jim heading south. He gave us a wave (I think it was a wave) and tore down the road.
At PI, the sprint was on again, this time a slight uphill finish.
After some more water and food, we headed back to Byron. Along the way we passed Jason out for his ride. I think he waved also. At Byron, the battle was on again.
Then onto Salem Corners, good thing there is no sign there. Then we continued on into Rochester, where Big D broke off for more miles. Then I headed for home.
Here is the route:
Great ride guys (Jim T., New Shorts Bruce, Al, Jeff G., Tim B., and Dave).
Hwood makin' em pay...
zip 'er up there, big guy.
And Big D had a nice showing with 1 first, 2 seconds, and 2nd overall. Nice...and leading the ROY race.
And Big D had a nice showing with 1 first, 2 seconds, and 2nd overall. Nice...and leading the ROY race.
Wed. 5/28/08
We had a huge crew last night (16, I think), plus we added Jeff and Big D out on the road. I'm not going to even try to remember all the names (you know who you are). Marty mapped out the ride beforehand, but was scared to attempt the ride himself. The pace was above average as we headed out of town (I guess with this many people there is bound to be some oneupmanship). As we rolled toward Salem Corners, Jim took off quite a ways out, but held off the group to take the sign. From there the hurt was on, as we continued to Rock Dell. I was on the back trying to pull the group together, so I have no idea who took the town sign. We finally started to regroup at the top of the climb to the south of Rock Dell. But as we turned onto hwy 30 and into the wind, the group quickly split again. We turned north on cty 15 (about the same time as a group of Recyclers were coming from the other direction on hwy 30). And again the pace stayed high, until we stopped to formally regroup at cty 104. From there the group stayed together as we headed back into town. As the group headed north to the shop, I turned into more wind and headed for home.
Here is the route (sort of):
I really hope this pace is not the start of things to come...
Here is the route (sort of):
I really hope this pace is not the start of things to come...
Tue. 5/27/08
Had time to sneak in a quick 20 miles from home. Winds out of the ENE, so headwind out and tailwind back. Need to double check my right shoe cleat, it feels like my right foot is slightly more forward than my left. No wonder I keep pedaling around in circles...
Sat. 5/24/08
Well the morning started out in the low 50s with light winds, but as the day went on the winds picked up to 20-30mph and the temps got into the lower 70s. I started the ride out on the cool side, but warmer up after the first few miles. With the winds expected to increase throughout the day we headed NE. Out of town on cty 9, then north on cty 11 and east into Potsdam. Then northward onto Millville. Boy, the road down into Millville is nice and smooth. Dr. Tim smoked everyone for the coveted Millville town sign. From there we turned along the river and headed for Hammond. The wind really was starting to swirl around in the valley and it seemed like you could never really find a good draft. About this time, Jeff noticed that Bruce's shorts were a bit thin and the comments started to fly. I won't get into too much detail, but Beebe interjected some doozies. I had promised myself I wasn't going to mention any of this, but I couldn't help myself.
Anyway, I did think of a solution for Bruce:
Well, back to the ride. After Hammond, we headed for hwy 63, then north toward Chef-Tel's and west on cty 7 for Mazeppa. We stopped in Mazeppa for water and then continued west to Pine Island, where we stopped again for more water and food. After a nice round of bananas and doughnuts, we hit the Douglas Trail for Rochester. By now the winds were really starting to pick up, so the shelter of the trail was much appreciated. Once in town Trevor and I turned east towards our homes, while the rest of the group continued back to Dunn Brothers South. The last few miles in the open wind were brutal, but I made it home. I finished the day with almost 83 miles.
Great ride guys (Jeff, Big Jim, Jim T., Beebe, Terry, Trevor, Dr. Tim, Eric, myself, and of course Bruce).
Here's the route:
Anyway, I did think of a solution for Bruce:
Well, back to the ride. After Hammond, we headed for hwy 63, then north toward Chef-Tel's and west on cty 7 for Mazeppa. We stopped in Mazeppa for water and then continued west to Pine Island, where we stopped again for more water and food. After a nice round of bananas and doughnuts, we hit the Douglas Trail for Rochester. By now the winds were really starting to pick up, so the shelter of the trail was much appreciated. Once in town Trevor and I turned east towards our homes, while the rest of the group continued back to Dunn Brothers South. The last few miles in the open wind were brutal, but I made it home. I finished the day with almost 83 miles.
Great ride guys (Jeff, Big Jim, Jim T., Beebe, Terry, Trevor, Dr. Tim, Eric, myself, and of course Bruce).
Here's the route:
Thur. 5/22/08
Just had time for a quick out and back from home tonight. With the light winds out of the NE, I had a headwind on the way out and nice tailwind on the way back. My legs felt a bit heavy at first (probably because of last nights ride). But they warmed up and as I turned around (with the tailwind remember), I turned it up a notch. Light traffic and no sign of Steve...
Wed. 5/21/08
Let's see if I can remember everyone's name from the Wednesday Erik's ride. Steve, Marty, Todd, Tom, Tim B., Jim, Sam, Paul, Paul (new), Aaron, John (new), Al, and myself. How's that? We had north winds from between 10 and 15 mph, so we headed north to Oronoco. Tom and Sam battled it out for the non-existant town sign. I'm not sure who won (or when). From there we headed toward Mazeppa. On the way, Sam went (again) for the county sign, I think Al chased. We turned just before Mazeppa and headed to Pine Island, but not before Sam went for the county sign (since it was not on the official route, no points were awarded). The group took turns as we wound our way to PI. Just before town we passed a group going the opposite direction. Someone thought they saw Jeff in there (but no Steve). As we neared town on the climb into PI, someone yelled for us to "take it easy at the top". I assumed to regroup. But as we crested the hill, here come the usual suspects for the town sign sprint. I need to understand the definition of "take it easy"... Anyway, we regrouped and continued into town and then south out of town on cty 3. With a nice tailwind, the pace stayed nice and high. We turned south on cty 5 and up "Palmer's hill", from there the pace stayed high all the way to Douglas. At this point everyone got into the town sprint action, with Marty winning it (I think). Again, Todd did most of the work. We turned east and headed back to the hwy 52 frontage road, then south and west abit. And finished up on 50th Ave and the Douglas trail.
Great ride everyone...
See you next week.
Great ride everyone...
See you next week.
Tue. 5/20/08
Bill and I did the 20 mile out-and-back route from my house. With the strong NNW winds we had a nice tail wind all the way out, followed by a nice steady head wind back into town. Nothing major to report, but it sure seemed like the traffic was lighter than usual.
Sat. 5/17/08
We had 10 to start our Saturday ride. With winds out of the NNW and predicted to pick up during the ride we decided to do the Windmill route backwards. So we headed out from Dunn Brothers going west to Salem Corners. There Dave and Tom slugged it out for the town sign, I think Dave took it. We regrouped and continued west and then turned north to Byron. Where again, Dave and Tom went at it, this time I think Tom was the victor. We regrouped again and turned west on the frontage road out of Byron, heading to Kasson. Tom went again for the Kasson sign and I went with, but I didn't have the right gear (or the legs) and Tom won the sign. Dave, Tom, and Sam turned and headed south and then back to Rochester, while the rest of us continued west to Dodge Center. We thought Bruce might have went with those guys, but he had stopped to chat with Dave and eventually caught us at the Kwik Trip in Dodge Center. After a quick refuel stop, we headed south on hwy 56 (man, does that road need to be resurfaced), where the pace picked up (as usual). We held a nice pace all the way to cty 4, where we turned east. Now we had pretty stiff crosswinds, so we got into some nice pace lining. And the group kept it together for a nice stretch, until a fiesty little farm dog came at us and broke up the group. He chased for quite awhile and made one last attempt at Jim T's ankle, then went home. We continued east into Rock Dell and then turned north (into the wind). By now the ride was starting to take it out on pretty much all us, except Bruce and Jim P. So, we let them do most of the work on the windy sections. We turned east at Salem Corners and headed east to Rochester. Jim P. turned off at cty 104 and headed for home, while the rest continued into town. There were a number of riders out on this stretch of road as we neared town. Dr. Tim turned north as we got to Circle Drive and the 4 remaining riders made our way back to Dunn Brothers. I headed home from there.
Here's the route:
Great ride guys (Dr. Tim, Dave, Beebe, Jim T., Big Jim P., Jeff G., Sam, Tom, and Bruce).
Here's the route:
Great ride guys (Dr. Tim, Dave, Beebe, Jim T., Big Jim P., Jeff G., Sam, Tom, and Bruce).
Wed. 5/14/08
We started with 9 riders from Eric's (Steve, Marty, Todd, Tom, Al, Paul, Kristi, Jim, and myself). We headed for Douglas via the Douglas Trail. As we pedaled along we picked one guy on the trail (didn't catch his name). When we got to Douglas we picked up Big Jim P. and a friend of Tom's named James (now we had three Jims). Jeff S. also somehow managed to find us at Douglas, as well. So now the group had swelled to 13 riders as we headed for the Genoa hill. Jim and I were out front when we received the first of three "Flying Fickle Finger of Fate Awards" (FFFoFA) from one of the local folks. We politely waved back (several times). The pace stayed pretty hard as we headed uphill. Kristi and the un-named guy turned and went on to finish their own workouts, while the rest of us headed toward Mantorville. Jeff and Todd decided we weren't going fast enough, so the pace picked up. We rolled into Mantorville with Steve winning the town sprint sign (with a smart lead-out by Marty, not really). We stormed up the hill out of Mantorville and headed to Byron past the golf course. Here we encountered our second FFFoFA from an adouring fan. Now it was Big Jim's turn to make everyone suffer as we motored along at 25+ mph. After a regroup and some more civilized riding pace miles. Tom took a long sprint to get the Byron sign, with Jeff and group in hot pursuit. We headed north abit and then back east through Byron. And then turned north again until we got back to Valleyhigh Road. We followed that all the way back to town. Jim P. headed north as we got back to cty 3 and he headed for home. The rest of us made our way back to town and the group followed the Douglas Trail north back to Eric's. I continued into town past Silver Lake (where I received my own personal FFFoFA). Then past RCC and finally home.
Here is the route:
Great ride everyone and thanks Jim for hurting my legs...
Here is the route:
Great ride everyone and thanks Jim for hurting my legs...
Sat. 05/10/08
*** Offical Steve Sighting ***
Yes, we did see Steve today, but not on a bike. He was driving his car to the supermarket or some such place.
Anyway, we started the ride with 7 guys (Terry, Tim, Jim, Jeff, Al, Dr. Tim, and myself). We headed to Simpson on cty 1, then we turned east toward Marion. We looped through town a bit to stay off hwy 52 and then we headed south on cty 19. Almost got taken out by some guy who wasn't watching where he was going and crossed over the centerline. We headed west on hwy 30 to Stewartville, where a city-wide garage sale was going on (maybe that is where Steve was heading?). Anyway, no one volunteered to pull the sweet lawn mower I found there home for me. We stopped at Casey's for some water and then continued west to High Forest. We passed a number of bikers heading east on cty 6. Martin was with them and yelled something smart as we went by. Jeff yelled something equally smart right back. No time for a "war with words", we headed to High Forest and then north on cty 8. With a tailwind, the pace picked up all the way to town with everyone getting in on the fun. Then everyone turned and headed for home.
Here's the route:
Great ride guys.
Yes, we did see Steve today, but not on a bike. He was driving his car to the supermarket or some such place.
Anyway, we started the ride with 7 guys (Terry, Tim, Jim, Jeff, Al, Dr. Tim, and myself). We headed to Simpson on cty 1, then we turned east toward Marion. We looped through town a bit to stay off hwy 52 and then we headed south on cty 19. Almost got taken out by some guy who wasn't watching where he was going and crossed over the centerline. We headed west on hwy 30 to Stewartville, where a city-wide garage sale was going on (maybe that is where Steve was heading?). Anyway, no one volunteered to pull the sweet lawn mower I found there home for me. We stopped at Casey's for some water and then continued west to High Forest. We passed a number of bikers heading east on cty 6. Martin was with them and yelled something smart as we went by. Jeff yelled something equally smart right back. No time for a "war with words", we headed to High Forest and then north on cty 8. With a tailwind, the pace picked up all the way to town with everyone getting in on the fun. Then everyone turned and headed for home.
Here's the route:
Great ride guys.
Wed. 5/7/08
Hit the Wednesday Eric's ride again. There were 8 riders this week (Marty, Jim, Sam, Todd, Tom, Al, Corbin and myself). With the stiff NNE winds (20+ mph), we decided to use the Douglas trail north out of town. That way we got a nice shelter from the winds. Once we got to Pine Island, we decided to tack on the Roscoe loop. What a beautiful stretch of road! We had a nice pace going until Tom took off for the Roscoe sign (which he won, closely followed by Sam, Jim, and Al). Even though it was a brown sign, I guess we'll count it. We turned south at Roscoe and continued a nice steady pace. I think Todd wanted to go faster, but Marty cracked the whip and Todd had to obey. We continued south when we got to cty 11, then we turned east on cty 24 (and into some head-cross winds). Tom (again) launched as we got close to the county sign. Jim and I went with, but were too far back to close the gap in time. As we got close to PI, the pace picked up on the climb, we then regrouped just in time for the sprinters to attack the PI town sign. I'm not sure who actually won it as I turned south on cty 3 while they faught it out. We regrouped (again) and headed south on cty 3. We made our way toward Douglas, where (you guessed it) the sprint was on. Jim and I had Sam and Tom marked, so when Sam launched I went with. Al followed and pulled around, so I jumped on his wheel. When he was out of gas I went around to go for the sign, but I was too far from the sign and out of the corner of my eye I see Todd (in full aero position) steaming by with Marty smartly tucked on his back wheel. Unfortunately, Marty won the final sign sprint. So we had to listen to him crowing about his sprinting prowess all the way into town. We hit the Douglas trail for the final stretch back to Eric's. As we got closer to town we noticed a couple riding up ahead. We were rolling along at around 21 mph and the gap was coming down pretty fast, when the guy must have noticed us coming. I won't mention the club jersey he was wearing, but the initials were P.C., anyway as he turned up the pace the wife or girlfriend (soon to be ex-wife or ex-girlfriend) began falling off the back. It was interesting to watch the "race" mentality overtake this guy while riding on the Douglas trail. Just enjoy the ride, buddy. Anyway, we turned off the trail as we got to 41st street and headed back to Eric's. I hope the P.C. guy slowed down for his significant other...
Here's our route:
Great ride everyone.
BTW, I then had to tack on another 10 miles to home as the sun was fast going down.
Also, no sign of Steve (maybe he was wearing the P.C. jersey?).
Here's our route:
Great ride everyone.
BTW, I then had to tack on another 10 miles to home as the sun was fast going down.
Also, no sign of Steve (maybe he was wearing the P.C. jersey?).
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