This was a good week on the bike and more fun at work. We all spent Monday at OB12OLD's place, eating and riding. Craigus took another ride with us as part of his cycling merit badge requirements. We hit 15 miles and I asked him if he wanted to take on the 25 mile piece. He kindly declined the offer, stating the terrain was much too hilly. He'd complete the 25 miler back in Newberg and through the flat Willamette River valley. Touche! At least he is riding.
We also spent time watching the Giro. What a race this year! Incredible speeds, awesome climbs, awefully competitive, and scenic views of the country. The race was all that and a bag of chips. By watching the Giro, talking about it with Craig, and his little bit of riding, we might have given birth to another cycling fanatic in the family. Time will tell if we have been successful. He has since been on several more 15 mile rides and has a few more planned this week. Time...
As for me, four rides this week with mileage over 170. It was a good week on the bike. Monday was riding in Washington with Craigus and OB12OLD. Tuesday and Wednesday, due to me working in Tacoma, I did not ride. This made Thursday a ride after some rest. I felt great on Thursday. Haugen road was less challenging than usual and the ride home was a new route up to the green house and over Gibb cementary. The legs were in great form. Maybe it was all the protein from the food at the my parents home or maybe it was just the rest. All in all, Thursday and Friday I pushed hard up and over various climbs. By Saturday, I was feeling it but had a great tempo ride on Saturday, hitting my STP speed target over the four hours of riding. The ride was out to Cornelius, around Haag Lake, out to Yamhill, and back through the valley. I felt all the work today as I sat through church. It was a good feeling. This next week will be challenging to get it all in as I will be traveling again.
As I have increased my crank arm length, changed from a compact to normal crank, and ride with an 11-23 cassette, on climbs I have changed to a high cadence climbing style. It really keeps my legs fresher in the long run. Saturday's ride confirmed this as there was plenty of rollers and a few climbs to get up and over. By spinning at the higher cadence, at the 60 and 70 mile marks, I felt good. As a point of reference, at last week's century, we averaged 16.78 MPH. This week, I hit 18.2 MPH average. The combination of the century work last week and the hills this week, I am starting to "sharpen" the fitness. I can feel it getting better. STP is only a few weeks away.
Finally, I just wanted to send a shout out to JD who is heading towards Deutschland this week. May the road rise up to meet you and safe travels.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
As heard on the bike...
During my ride, several concerned citizens (as Mark put it), slowed down and let us know exactly what we were doing wrong. I just love these concerned and caring people. The only thing is that they are wrong.
The first occasion was between Gaston and Yamhill. Mark and I were riding two abreast, talking and on the shoulder. The driver slowed down and while other drivers behind him honked, he yelled at us "single file, you have to ride single file." We just said thank you and waved and he went on his way.
The second occasion was between Lafayette and Dayton. The road had a painted white line but no real shoulder. We were riding single file at the time. The driver slowed down and shouted to us, "Hey, you can't ride a bike unless there is a shoulder. No shoulder, no bike ride. You can't ride here." Again, we thanked him and waved as he went on his way.
Finally, my neighbor across the street got stopped while riding in our neighborhood and told that he was riding too fast and had to slow down. Cars drive 25 mph in the neighborhood but a bike is too fast riding at 18 mph. Wow!
I will say that second to Cali, Oregon has some of the most bike friendly drivers - although misinformed and willing to show their ignorance - yet friendly and kind to cyclists.
The first occasion was between Gaston and Yamhill. Mark and I were riding two abreast, talking and on the shoulder. The driver slowed down and while other drivers behind him honked, he yelled at us "single file, you have to ride single file." We just said thank you and waved and he went on his way.
The second occasion was between Lafayette and Dayton. The road had a painted white line but no real shoulder. We were riding single file at the time. The driver slowed down and shouted to us, "Hey, you can't ride a bike unless there is a shoulder. No shoulder, no bike ride. You can't ride here." Again, we thanked him and waved as he went on his way.
Finally, my neighbor across the street got stopped while riding in our neighborhood and told that he was riding too fast and had to slow down. Cars drive 25 mph in the neighborhood but a bike is too fast riding at 18 mph. Wow!
I will say that second to Cali, Oregon has some of the most bike friendly drivers - although misinformed and willing to show their ignorance - yet friendly and kind to cyclists.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Century
It has been good to be in town all this week. There is nothing like home sweet home. It was a good week on the bike - 4 days of riding, almost 12 hours, and 190+ miles. Monday and Tuesday were climbing, Wednesday was time trial and tempo, Thursday and Friday were rest days, and Saturday was a century with "Time to Bleed" Mark. The weather has been nice and today did not disappoint either. The sun was out and their was only a slight, cool breeze. What was really spectacular was the red clover. It was in full bloom. There were fields and fields of red. Wow!
My schedule gets hectic for the next month or so with traveling to other window locations. It will be tough to get the time in on the bike but I will figure it out. What is nice is that my focus will be changing here a few weeks to getting the speed up so the hotel bikes will work fine for doing just that. The STP is less than eight weeks away.
The last week of watching the Giro has been great. The stage 12 TT was amazing. The scenery was incredible and the riders really pushed themselves. It was nice to see Levi and Lance do well. Let's hope that this last week Levi can get aggresive and pull off the win. He's got a great team to help him. Let's go Levi! If you have a moment, check out Lance's videos from the Giro at www.livestrong.com. There are a few hilarious ones.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Tacoma
I spent all last week in Tacoma facilitating a Kaizen event, working with the team there to increase capacity on our energy efficient, insulated glass unit production line. The events are always different and have their own challenges. This event was unique since we had people from our three plants in the region. Through the team's efforts, our initial estimates is a 20% improvement. I think there is more there but the line needs to get used to the changes and the leaders need to step up and be leaders.
Enough about work - on to the riding. Although I was in the hotel all week, I still got in 5.5 hours during the week and a 3.25 hour ride in on Saturday. This was difficult to do since I was gone all week and it was our 17th anniversary. I really appreciate the C letting me spend some time on the bike with my dad. All in all, this was the most miles in a week for the year. It was a fast week. I spent a lot of time at threshold for extended periods of time. On Saturday, I felt great riding up on the hills and around Newberg. I would say that I am close to be ready for my 12 hour goal of STP. The legs feel strong and are getting stronger. I can relate to Lance in that he is riding himself into Tour shape. I am riding myself into STP shape. The hills, the rollers, the miles, and the time will all pay dividends in July. I hope to reach my goal, much like I hope Lance reaches his in July.
This week summary - 5 rides for a total of 170+ miles at almost 9 hours on the bike.
We spent Saturday night watching Cassie swim, putting on a show for us and putting up some of her best times. I was so excited for her and proud of her. This meant that she had been working hard in practice, pushing to get better, and it paid off for her. In the picture, she is the one in the lower left of the pool hanging on to the side, looking at the camera.
While Cassie was swimming, Craig was at a camporee. Out of 28 troops that attended, our troop came in 3rd. Craig said he had a great time doing all of the scout tasks and camping. At tonight's court of honor, Craig received his Star scout rank. He is 6 months from being a Life, one step from Eagle.
I am so blessed to have two such incredible and dedicated children - my heroes.
Enough about work - on to the riding. Although I was in the hotel all week, I still got in 5.5 hours during the week and a 3.25 hour ride in on Saturday. This was difficult to do since I was gone all week and it was our 17th anniversary. I really appreciate the C letting me spend some time on the bike with my dad. All in all, this was the most miles in a week for the year. It was a fast week. I spent a lot of time at threshold for extended periods of time. On Saturday, I felt great riding up on the hills and around Newberg. I would say that I am close to be ready for my 12 hour goal of STP. The legs feel strong and are getting stronger. I can relate to Lance in that he is riding himself into Tour shape. I am riding myself into STP shape. The hills, the rollers, the miles, and the time will all pay dividends in July. I hope to reach my goal, much like I hope Lance reaches his in July.
This week summary - 5 rides for a total of 170+ miles at almost 9 hours on the bike.
We spent Saturday night watching Cassie swim, putting on a show for us and putting up some of her best times. I was so excited for her and proud of her. This meant that she had been working hard in practice, pushing to get better, and it paid off for her. In the picture, she is the one in the lower left of the pool hanging on to the side, looking at the camera.
While Cassie was swimming, Craig was at a camporee. Out of 28 troops that attended, our troop came in 3rd. Craig said he had a great time doing all of the scout tasks and camping. At tonight's court of honor, Craig received his Star scout rank. He is 6 months from being a Life, one step from Eagle. I am so blessed to have two such incredible and dedicated children - my heroes.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Numbness
When I first started riding, my right hand would go numb. In talking with a bunch of people, I came to believe that I needed more padding to help with the numbing. So I bought some gel gloves in hope that my numbness would go away. It did work to the extent that my hands took much longer to go numb - but they still went numb. For several years, I just thought I had to live with it and I did. I'd pound my hand against my leg every so often, keep changing my hand position, and continually stretch. Not all bad ideas to do on a long ride but the numbness was still bothering.
What I have found out lately is that less is better in my case. I have some padless, fingered gloves I began using in cold weather. I have noticed that my hands don't go numb when I wear them. On my two hour ride home on Friday, I didn't wear any gloves and I had no problem. Cool! So, if you have a numbness issue and haven't tried to ride with less, give it a shot and see what happens. You might just learn that it does the trick.
Riding was good this week - a year best total time riding for the week. It was a lot of time but a lot of time on the hills so the mileage was not as much. My view is that it is all about time on the bike and it will pay off later. On Saturday, I headed out early to ride a loop I outlined online. The gravel road proved to be awefully difficult as the back wheel would slip as I stood up and pushed. The first hill wasn't too bad, but the subsequent series were a difficult on the legs but good for them. Later, I rode with a few triathletes and we pushed 40 miles in about 2 hours. We had the hammer down a few times, pushing 25 - 27 MPH. I will say this, the combination of the climbing and the speed work, my legs were toast when I was done. It is good to be relaxing today.
Next week is time in Tacoma and anniversary Saturday.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Coral Creek
After not spending a lot of time on the bike this week, I was in need to relieve some stress on Wednesday night. On the drive home, there was a break in the weather so I got on the bike and headed to the hills. It was up Springbrook and up to Gibb Cementary, back down and out North Valley to Tangen. On the way around Newberg, I decided to hit Coral Creek. I just needed another hill to complete the ride. I've described Coral Creek before - it is a 5-6% hill at almost 2 miles - a good training hill. I headed up it with no intent on pushing, just trying to stay on top of the gear. Near the top, I looked down and noticed that I was on pace to match my best time of 9 minutes. At the top, 9 minutes but with so much less effort. I was amazed. Why you might ask? I think it is the changes to the bike as well as the increased miles.
I just love to ride my bike.
I just love to ride my bike.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
TV and Cycling
Just a quick note, while I was in Tacoma a few weeks ago, an early Saturday morning TV show came to our plant and filmed a spot about energy efficiency windows. I missed out being on TV since I was out of the office but Glenn, my boss, got to be on camera. I'd like to say he did an excellent job. Here is the link - http://www.fusionnw.com/thisweek.htm - check it out and see all the plant all stars that make the best vinyl window on the market.
On a cycling note, Levi takes the Tour de Gila with Team Mellow Johnny. It was fun reading and watching the videos from the event. The availability of information really makes you feel connected to the event. Cool stuff! This week starts the first of the Grand Tours - the 100th racing of the Giro de Italia starts on Saturday. Lance, Levi, Chris, , George, Dave, Christian, and other American cyclists will be there to ride. It should be a fun race to watch and with all the web access, it will be fun to be a part of.
The ride on Saturday was a tough one - a few hours of all out pushing after a week of riding hills. This is all part of the plan for the STP - to ride the hills during the week, gaining leg strength, and then riding rollers or flat on Saturday at near max effort for an extended period of time to get the speed I need. This Saturday was the near max effort over rollers. On the way out to Gaston, I was hitting 22 to 25 MPH. There was some wind pushing me so I thought, given the speed, that it would be a painful ride back into the wind. As I turned back South, trying to beat the downpour, the wind hit me in the face. I just got in the drops and kept the pedals turning over. I was amazed at the speed I was able to maintain coming back in - between 17 and 19 MPH. This is the benefit for riding hills for an extended period of time. The suffering lasts for a long time or at least till you get to the top of the hill. Some of the climbs are 30 to 45 minutes long so riding into the wind for that period of time was much the same. This was the good news from the ride. The bad was riding out in decent weather, sweating a bunch, and then the skies let loose and the temperature dropped quickly. I got real cold as I didn't have the right gear with me. I don't think I have been that cold before. After I got home, I sat in the hot shower for an extended period just trying to get my core temperature up. Luckily, I didn't get sick and will ride another day. All in all, a good week of riding. April was a good month, averaging 8 hours a week. The hours jump up to 10 this month. A little harder task but doable.
Until we meet on the road...
On a cycling note, Levi takes the Tour de Gila with Team Mellow Johnny. It was fun reading and watching the videos from the event. The availability of information really makes you feel connected to the event. Cool stuff! This week starts the first of the Grand Tours - the 100th racing of the Giro de Italia starts on Saturday. Lance, Levi, Chris, , George, Dave, Christian, and other American cyclists will be there to ride. It should be a fun race to watch and with all the web access, it will be fun to be a part of.
The ride on Saturday was a tough one - a few hours of all out pushing after a week of riding hills. This is all part of the plan for the STP - to ride the hills during the week, gaining leg strength, and then riding rollers or flat on Saturday at near max effort for an extended period of time to get the speed I need. This Saturday was the near max effort over rollers. On the way out to Gaston, I was hitting 22 to 25 MPH. There was some wind pushing me so I thought, given the speed, that it would be a painful ride back into the wind. As I turned back South, trying to beat the downpour, the wind hit me in the face. I just got in the drops and kept the pedals turning over. I was amazed at the speed I was able to maintain coming back in - between 17 and 19 MPH. This is the benefit for riding hills for an extended period of time. The suffering lasts for a long time or at least till you get to the top of the hill. Some of the climbs are 30 to 45 minutes long so riding into the wind for that period of time was much the same. This was the good news from the ride. The bad was riding out in decent weather, sweating a bunch, and then the skies let loose and the temperature dropped quickly. I got real cold as I didn't have the right gear with me. I don't think I have been that cold before. After I got home, I sat in the hot shower for an extended period just trying to get my core temperature up. Luckily, I didn't get sick and will ride another day. All in all, a good week of riding. April was a good month, averaging 8 hours a week. The hours jump up to 10 this month. A little harder task but doable.
Until we meet on the road...
Monday, April 27, 2009
Turning over
Not much exciting news this week - I started riding to work again for the year. The first day, as you can see by my previous post, was an eventful one but all the others were turning over the pedals up and over various hills in the area. The only day off the bike was Friday. This last week I put in most rides and hours yet this year. It should be about the average for the rest of the month - all one week of it. Next month the time kicks up a little bit more as we start to be within 10 weeks of the STP.
Saturday Cassie rode a few hours with me. It is always good to spend time with the family on the bike. We get to talk and have a good time. Craig rode on Monday night with me and we will do that again tonight. This will be the third of 7 rides he needs for the cycling merit badge.
On a technical note, I have increased my crank arm length to 177.5. I can tell I am faster on the flats but as I have read, since I am a "masher", I generated a lot more torque and the longer crank arms benefit me. The times on the hills are better as well, but I feel this is due to the 11/23 cassette and not having any where else to go. I just try and stay on top of the gear. I do stand up more often as I am trying to develop the leg strength. I am not having any real issues after going from the 175 to the 177.5. I have read a whole bunch about it and am not, as of yet seeing any of the issues that have been presented - even after almost 500 miles with the long crank arms.
I am starting to get real curious about watts and watts/kg as a target. The problem is that watt meters are too expensive. Anyone with one laying around that they are not using, feel free to send it my way. I'll be sure to use it.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Triple C
Triple C could mean a lot of things - Chilly C Cycling, Cold Chill'in Chris, Canned Corn Cauliflower, and the list goes on. But in this case, it means Corral Creek Craig. We did the second ride together for the cycling merit badge - another ten miles. So I decided it was time to check out Craig's climbing legs. We headed around Wilsonville road and up Corral Creek. On the way to the climb, I told Craig that climbing was in your heart, pointing to my chest. I asked him he understood. His reply is classic, " yeah Dad, you have to have good lungs to climb and be able to breath right." He was absolutely right but it wasn't what I was trying to convey. I laughed a little bit and said something like "you are right, climbing takes all that plus the heart to push through pain and keep going, even when it hurts."
Corral Creek is a 1.75 mile climb that is a steady 5 to 6% grade with a short quarter mile flatter part at the top. It is a good training hill for me and a good place to see how Craig would do. Let me say that he did well. I kept a moderate pace and he stayed right with me all the way to the top. It made a Dad proud.
Next up, a 15 mile ride and I am thinking heading up to Gibb Cementary with him. A little tougher and longer climb.
Corral Creek is a 1.75 mile climb that is a steady 5 to 6% grade with a short quarter mile flatter part at the top. It is a good training hill for me and a good place to see how Craig would do. Let me say that he did well. I kept a moderate pace and he stayed right with me all the way to the top. It made a Dad proud.
Next up, a 15 mile ride and I am thinking heading up to Gibb Cementary with him. A little tougher and longer climb.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
3 Dog Day
The weather for the most part has been decent the last few days here in Oregon. Enough so that I decided it was time to start riding to work again. So, on Monday, I loaded up the car with clothes and other needed toiletry items and hauled them to work for another season of using alternate transportation. Biking does a few good things for me - I get in my needed time on the bike instead of sitting in the car, when I get home, I get to stay at home, and it is good for the environment.
The first day back to riding to work was a 3 dogger, meaning I was chased by three dogs during my travels. The first was on the way up Haugen road. Of course, it had to be on one of the steep parts (some 13%) that the dog decided to harass me. He was up the road and saw me coming. Immediately the dog jumped to its feet, started barking, and running towards me. This was not a friendly dog my friend. In response, I started yelling at the dog. Usually the deep timbers of my voice is enough to dissuade any dog from coming in my direction. This dog must have been deaf. He was threatening enough that I stop, got off the bike, and picked up a large stick. The dog was probably deaf but not blind. So picture this, on this tree shaded and enclosed, steep street, I stand with my bike between me and the dog, yielding this broad sword of a stick. I am yelling, the dog stopped and barking at me. What to do? I couldn't get back on the bike and take off while holding the stick. This would be like a knight trying to get onto his horse without any help while brandishing his sword. We are at a standstill. I start to walk up the hill and the dog mirrors my movements. He is out of "sword" reach to give him a wack but menacing enough to me to not try and remount. Finally, after a few steps, the appearant dog owner drives out of their driveway and the dog follows, leaving me with my stick and thoughts. I get back on the bike and get to work in record time, even with the few minutes of dog/man face off.
The next dog encounter occurred on the ride home. I had made the Krueger road turn and have started up another hill, moving towards the green house. The dog surprised me. I turned, gave a loud yell. This dog was not deaf. It slowed down a bit, ran a few yards behind me for a few houses, and then disappeared after a few words of encouragement from me.
The final dog showed up in my path on the way up to Gibb cemetary - the final climb of the day for me. The difference with this dog was it saw me, paid me no mind as I passed, and then decided I must be worth some effort so it jumped up and half-heartedly chased me up the hill. One "stop" yell sufficiently threatening was enough to discourage the beast. The remaining miles home were uneventful.
Why all the dogs I asked myselft? Maybe I smelled like a nice piece of steak, maybe the red of the bike is like the red of a bull fighter, maybe it was hot and the dogs were agitated and why always while I was on a hill did they decide to attack. Whatever it was, I was happy to be home and glad I road to work. I have a few more days to ride to work this year - maybe I need to get a can of mace or other dog repellant tool.
The first day back to riding to work was a 3 dogger, meaning I was chased by three dogs during my travels. The first was on the way up Haugen road. Of course, it had to be on one of the steep parts (some 13%) that the dog decided to harass me. He was up the road and saw me coming. Immediately the dog jumped to its feet, started barking, and running towards me. This was not a friendly dog my friend. In response, I started yelling at the dog. Usually the deep timbers of my voice is enough to dissuade any dog from coming in my direction. This dog must have been deaf. He was threatening enough that I stop, got off the bike, and picked up a large stick. The dog was probably deaf but not blind. So picture this, on this tree shaded and enclosed, steep street, I stand with my bike between me and the dog, yielding this broad sword of a stick. I am yelling, the dog stopped and barking at me. What to do? I couldn't get back on the bike and take off while holding the stick. This would be like a knight trying to get onto his horse without any help while brandishing his sword. We are at a standstill. I start to walk up the hill and the dog mirrors my movements. He is out of "sword" reach to give him a wack but menacing enough to me to not try and remount. Finally, after a few steps, the appearant dog owner drives out of their driveway and the dog follows, leaving me with my stick and thoughts. I get back on the bike and get to work in record time, even with the few minutes of dog/man face off.
The next dog encounter occurred on the ride home. I had made the Krueger road turn and have started up another hill, moving towards the green house. The dog surprised me. I turned, gave a loud yell. This dog was not deaf. It slowed down a bit, ran a few yards behind me for a few houses, and then disappeared after a few words of encouragement from me.
The final dog showed up in my path on the way up to Gibb cemetary - the final climb of the day for me. The difference with this dog was it saw me, paid me no mind as I passed, and then decided I must be worth some effort so it jumped up and half-heartedly chased me up the hill. One "stop" yell sufficiently threatening was enough to discourage the beast. The remaining miles home were uneventful.
Why all the dogs I asked myselft? Maybe I smelled like a nice piece of steak, maybe the red of the bike is like the red of a bull fighter, maybe it was hot and the dogs were agitated and why always while I was on a hill did they decide to attack. Whatever it was, I was happy to be home and glad I road to work. I have a few more days to ride to work this year - maybe I need to get a can of mace or other dog repellant tool.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Riding in and out
This was a good week on the bike. I spent some time in Tacoma at Milgard's Tacoma plant to help prepare for a Kaizen event that is coming up in May. Since I was going to be there for a few days, I brought my bike and trainer so I could still ride. It is definitely colder up north than it is here in PDX so indoors would be just fine. The neat part of riding indoors is that OB12OLD could hang with me. We sat there a couple nights for a couple hours, watching Master and Commander and some funky 70's music videos. Yes, my pops owns some DVD with funky 70's music videos on them.
Saturday was to be a great day weather wise so I took advantage of it. I headed out early and rode for a little over 2 hours. I then met up with a few of the locals and we headed out for another 2 and a half hours. It was a good day on the bike - it was a good week on the bike. The 85 miles did not feel difficult and I could have easily put in another 30 to 40 miles without too much pain. I feel well ahead of where I was last year at this time. In comparing last year up to this point to this year, last year I had done more rides but for less total miles but for the same total time. This is exactly what I am trying to do - get in longer rides leading up to the STP. If I can keep this up over the next couple of months, the 12 hour STP will be a reality.
It should continue to be decent weather for a couple more days so I will get some more miles in. In about a week, it should be light enough to start riding in to work. I am excited as the miles will then continue to grow, leading up to the big July event.
Only a few more weeks to the start of the large stage races in Europe - the Giro starts on May 9th. I am curious to see who Astana will be sending to the race. I just hope Versus does a decent job to present the race. We will see.
Saturday was to be a great day weather wise so I took advantage of it. I headed out early and rode for a little over 2 hours. I then met up with a few of the locals and we headed out for another 2 and a half hours. It was a good day on the bike - it was a good week on the bike. The 85 miles did not feel difficult and I could have easily put in another 30 to 40 miles without too much pain. I feel well ahead of where I was last year at this time. In comparing last year up to this point to this year, last year I had done more rides but for less total miles but for the same total time. This is exactly what I am trying to do - get in longer rides leading up to the STP. If I can keep this up over the next couple of months, the 12 hour STP will be a reality.
It should continue to be decent weather for a couple more days so I will get some more miles in. In about a week, it should be light enough to start riding in to work. I am excited as the miles will then continue to grow, leading up to the big July event.
Only a few more weeks to the start of the large stage races in Europe - the Giro starts on May 9th. I am curious to see who Astana will be sending to the race. I just hope Versus does a decent job to present the race. We will see.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Building
This last week was a busy one in the garage and with bicycles. Last weekend, we worked and organized the garage. We got all the bikes hung up on the wall, gave away not needed or unused items, threw away clutter and trash, put up some peg board, and organized the tools. It really made the garage look better and freed up space to walk through and work in. Here are a few photos of the results. Yeah, we have plenty of bikes.
During the week, my dad came down and spent some time with us. I was glad he was here as Craig and I were building Craig's bike. I had almost all the components for a bike so I got a frame, forks, and the other smaller parts needed to complete the bike. A few nights later with some wrench turning, reading, and talking through things, we had a bike. The best part was working with Craig and my dad. I tried real hard not to turn the wrench and let Craig do it. Sometimes it worked and others it didn't but it was a great experience working together to get it done. The maiden voyage was a 10 mile ride through the neighborhood mixed with a little rain. We talked a bit throughout the ride. It was good to be out with my son, doing what I love, sharing some time. Here is the proud rider and his bike.
During the week, my dad came down and spent some time with us. I was glad he was here as Craig and I were building Craig's bike. I had almost all the components for a bike so I got a frame, forks, and the other smaller parts needed to complete the bike. A few nights later with some wrench turning, reading, and talking through things, we had a bike. The best part was working with Craig and my dad. I tried real hard not to turn the wrench and let Craig do it. Sometimes it worked and others it didn't but it was a great experience working together to get it done. The maiden voyage was a 10 mile ride through the neighborhood mixed with a little rain. We talked a bit throughout the ride. It was good to be out with my son, doing what I love, sharing some time. Here is the proud rider and his bike.
Here is to looking forward to many long rides and lots of fun on the bike. Next up for Craig is to tackle the cycling merit badge and the 160 miles worth of riding to get it done.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Time
This was a good week of riding for me plus the days are getting longer and the weather has been cooperating. All told, over 8 hours on the bike and about 140 miles of work. Saturday was the first longer ride with the new components. I didn't push any big hills, just ran the rollers and a few moderate climbs. With the slightly longer crank arms, my legs are still getting used to it but on the flats I am faster. It must be the gear combinations. On the hills I did ride, I didn't see much difference yet. I think I will as my body gets used to the changes made to the bike as I ride more hills.
I organized the garage this weekend and got all the bikes hung on the wall and organized my tools and made a work bench space. It looks much better. All the Kaizen at work is paying off. I will be adding one more bike to the wall as Craig and I will be building his bike this week. I look forward to the time building it with him. As an added bonus, OB12OLD will be along for the fun. My goal is to get Craig to build as much as possible - give him the wrench and guidance but he does the bulk of the work, at least that is the plan. We'll see how it works out. At the very least, it will be good times for three dudes hanging in the garage.
I just wanted to send a note of Congrats to Stijn DeVolder on winning the Tour of Flanders. My wall paper on my work desktop is of him on the cobles at last year's edition in route to the win. There is something about the grimace on his face, the tension in his legs, and the fans in close proximity that I love about the picture. I've posted it here to share.
I organized the garage this weekend and got all the bikes hung on the wall and organized my tools and made a work bench space. It looks much better. All the Kaizen at work is paying off. I will be adding one more bike to the wall as Craig and I will be building his bike this week. I look forward to the time building it with him. As an added bonus, OB12OLD will be along for the fun. My goal is to get Craig to build as much as possible - give him the wrench and guidance but he does the bulk of the work, at least that is the plan. We'll see how it works out. At the very least, it will be good times for three dudes hanging in the garage.
I just wanted to send a note of Congrats to Stijn DeVolder on winning the Tour of Flanders. My wall paper on my work desktop is of him on the cobles at last year's edition in route to the win. There is something about the grimace on his face, the tension in his legs, and the fans in close proximity that I love about the picture. I've posted it here to share.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Raining
After finishing Red last night, I put the fenders on the Trek anticipating the rain today and not riding the Specialized. This morning when I woke up, I was glad I had put the fenders on. As some of you may know, I have fought the idea of putting fenders on my bike. It just didn't feel right. After watching a piece on Cav riding on the Isle of Man with fenders on his bike, I was like "I can do that" so I did. Today's ride was 3 1/2 hours in the rain, wind, and cold. It wasn't too fast of a ride but it got done. I learned a few things today. Fenders really do help keep you drier and as a result, warmer. I was amazed at the water coming off the bottom of the fenders. I also learned that the cycling hat is great at keeping the rain out of the eyes. As I was riding, rain would fall between my helmet and top of my glasses. I turned my hat around like I have seen done and problem solved. I have a few components I need to transfer to the Trek to make the ride more comfortable but it was all decent. Here is a picture of me after the ride. I was soaked all the way through but happy for the chance to ride.
On Thursday, I got out in some sun and did a Rodney Harrison on Chehalem Mountain. I rode the Trek since Red was not ready. I left it in the 39 instead of going to the granny. I flew up the climb in 37 minutes, beating my previous best time by 13 minutes. I then hit a partial Baldy. Coming down the hill, the cars couldn't catch me. I was flying at over 35 MPH. The cars would start to catch up on the straights but on the curves and corners, I'd pull away. It was a fun and fast down hill.
All told, I got almost 6 hours on the bike this week. Starting next week, the hours per week go up a bit - STP is only a few months away.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Finalized
I finished putting all the components on the bike tonight and the bar tape. Here are a few pictures.
It was easier than I thought to get all the components on. It is amazing what you can do with the right tools and reading the instructions. Now it is time to ride!
It was easier than I thought to get all the components on. It is amazing what you can do with the right tools and reading the instructions. Now it is time to ride!Monday, March 23, 2009
Putting it all together
A few weeks ago, I got an e-mail from the Toyota-United Cycling Team. They were having a fire sale since the team disbanded. For a good price, I was able to pick up a Dura Ace gruppo. I started to put it on the bike tonight. It will take me a few nights to do it but here is the start.
The bike in the stand - notice the new carbon handlebars. 
Here is the crank - a 53/39 Hollowtech II.
A better look at the handlebars and the front brakes.
All the old parts - I will be installing these on my Trek since they are better than the components on the Trek right now.
The bike in the stand - notice the new carbon handlebars. Here is the crank - a 53/39 Hollowtech II.A better look at the handlebars and the front brakes.All the old parts - I will be installing these on my Trek since they are better than the components on the Trek right now.I'll be doing a bit more tomorrow night as I put on the derailleurs and the shifters. I'll probably start the cables on Thursday. Fun, fun, fun...
Sunday, March 22, 2009
SoCal Riding
After Solvang, I knew my legs feel better the sooner I get out. One of my favorite rides is on the PCH - you can see, feel, smell, and hear the ocean. I was happy that JD was going to ride with me. So Sunday, we said adios to my parents and Solvang and headed to Camarillo. JD and I jumped on the bikes while the families shopped a bit and then met us at the beach. The first couple of miles was just loosening up and getting back into the rhythm of riding. The first 8 miles was into a nice head wind and then we reached the Pt. Magu and the wind disappeared and the ocean opened up. As JD put, "it was a perfect day" to be riding. We just cruised and took it all in. Thanks to JD for the ride - there is a comfort riding with a friend and doing a great ride. After the ride, we just hung out at the beach, enjoying the sea, the sand, and the friendship.
Monday was a tough morning. JD and his family got into their car to go home. It was tough saying good-bye to them. Saying good-bye to good friends reminds me of when I was almost 5, leaving Germany for the first time, having to say good-bye to my friend Alexander. I cried like a baby and couldn't say the words. I did much better this time but each time is difficult.
Tuesday was back on the bike to ride parts of several of my favorite rides near Simi - up Sunset Hills, over Westlake Blvd, out Hidden Valley and up Potrero Canyon, down past Cal State Channel Islands, back through Camarillo and Moorpark, and into Simi. All told, some 55 miles in the saddle. After the ride, we headed to Ramona (near San Diego) to hang with Bob. He has this beautiful home on top of a hill, overlooking the valley below. I really appreciate him letting us hang with him and get some insight into the NCAA tourney - great conversation. After consulting with him and www.mapmyride.com, I got some ideas of doing a ride around Ramona. I could have called the ride several names - Col du Bob because of the several steep short climbs to get up to his house, Vuelta de Ramona because I rode the perimeter and through downtown of Ramona, or Lost because I did get lost on the ride. My riding around Ramona was almost as much elevation gain over the 40 miles as it was if I had ridden Palomar Mountain. I had decided against climbing Palomar for several reasons - wrong cassette, don't know the roads or could talk to someone who does, more excuses, and more excuses. Cassie and I did drive out there on Thursday to take a peak at it. We drove both sides from the CA76. With the right gearing, it is a very manageable climb - much like the Col du Hamilton in San Jose. What amazes me is the speed that the pro cyclists did it in the AToCali. Wow! The average American has no clue about how difficult it is to ride up these climbs. I have an inkling and understand the pain of climbing for extended periods but the speed still eludes me. Next time in SoCal, Palomar will be on my list to climb.
Having rode for 4 out of the 5 days, I started to get a glimpse of what a multi-day stage race is like and why a massage is necessary each day. Tough but fun!
Friday and Saturday was spent in the car, returning to the cold and rain. During the drive, we listened to the tourney on the radio and followed it on the handheld. I missed Milan-San Remo race but saw the finish online. Cav has some incredible speed - even after 298K's.
Time to get back to work and to prepping for the STP... pics to follow...
Monday was a tough morning. JD and his family got into their car to go home. It was tough saying good-bye to them. Saying good-bye to good friends reminds me of when I was almost 5, leaving Germany for the first time, having to say good-bye to my friend Alexander. I cried like a baby and couldn't say the words. I did much better this time but each time is difficult.
Tuesday was back on the bike to ride parts of several of my favorite rides near Simi - up Sunset Hills, over Westlake Blvd, out Hidden Valley and up Potrero Canyon, down past Cal State Channel Islands, back through Camarillo and Moorpark, and into Simi. All told, some 55 miles in the saddle. After the ride, we headed to Ramona (near San Diego) to hang with Bob. He has this beautiful home on top of a hill, overlooking the valley below. I really appreciate him letting us hang with him and get some insight into the NCAA tourney - great conversation. After consulting with him and www.mapmyride.com, I got some ideas of doing a ride around Ramona. I could have called the ride several names - Col du Bob because of the several steep short climbs to get up to his house, Vuelta de Ramona because I rode the perimeter and through downtown of Ramona, or Lost because I did get lost on the ride. My riding around Ramona was almost as much elevation gain over the 40 miles as it was if I had ridden Palomar Mountain. I had decided against climbing Palomar for several reasons - wrong cassette, don't know the roads or could talk to someone who does, more excuses, and more excuses. Cassie and I did drive out there on Thursday to take a peak at it. We drove both sides from the CA76. With the right gearing, it is a very manageable climb - much like the Col du Hamilton in San Jose. What amazes me is the speed that the pro cyclists did it in the AToCali. Wow! The average American has no clue about how difficult it is to ride up these climbs. I have an inkling and understand the pain of climbing for extended periods but the speed still eludes me. Next time in SoCal, Palomar will be on my list to climb.
Having rode for 4 out of the 5 days, I started to get a glimpse of what a multi-day stage race is like and why a massage is necessary each day. Tough but fun!
Friday and Saturday was spent in the car, returning to the cold and rain. During the drive, we listened to the tourney on the radio and followed it on the handheld. I missed Milan-San Remo race but saw the finish online. Cav has some incredible speed - even after 298K's.
Time to get back to work and to prepping for the STP... pics to follow...
Monday, March 16, 2009
Solvang
Let me just start this off by saying "Happy Anniversary" to my parents - 42 years. Wow!
I just love this ride. There are many reasons why I love this ride – family, friends, difficulty, motivation, weather – all add to the beauty that is this early season ride in the small Danish town.
The trip started Thursday afternoon with a drive to Ashland. Once again, we were able to stay at Bob’s house. (Thanks Bob – your hospitality is always appreciated. We are grateful to you for your generous nature.) Friday started out a bit later than anticipated but we the journey down to Solvang was not difficult. We even stopped in Sacramento and had an In & Out experience. Yes, a double double animal style and a strawberry shake – nothing like a good burger. It was part of the “carb” loading I was doing for the ride. We got to Solvang about 7 and had dinner with my parents. Good food as always. It not only tasty but the essential stuff for a pre-ride meal. (Thanks to OB12OLD and Mom for their graciousness in letting us hang with them and eat their food. It made the ride just that more enjoyable and relaxing.) After dinner, we got our packets and hooked up with some good friends, the Dunford’s. JD was ready to sleep and get on the road. I was happy to have another riding partner and wingman.
We slept in a little later than previous years – something about a change in daylight savings time being in March instead of April this year. We rolled out a little after 8 AM with a few pictures and anxious legs. It always amazes me how at the start, the big question for me is always how is my body going to react today? Have I prepared enough for this ride? The weather was not the usual heavy fog of the last few years. Instead, it was cold and overcast, just like Oregon riding this time of year without the rain. I felt at home. The first 25 miles was fast. We hit the first rest stop, got some food, and hung with the kids and the C for a couple of minutes. Christine and Kristen brought the kids over close to the rest stop and we got to see them for a few minutes. I caught up with OB12 OLD for a few moments and just gabbed a bit. JD came by with a group, groped me and we took off. It was good to just hang with Pops for a few minutes on the road. We didn’t talk to him till after the ride was over.
We cruised all the way over to the 60 mile stop before stopping again. Once again, the family was there plus my Mom hooked me up with a sandwich. Cool! I was good for the rest of the ride. Usually this is where I write about the pain of the last 40 miles. Not this year, the weather was much milder on the coast with very little wind. Plus, it stayed cooler all day long so I didn’t get beat up by the sun. We had planned on stopping around mile 85 before the hills, not this year. I took a quick natural break before the hills and closed out the ride. My fastest 10 miles split was the last 10 miles of the ride. I felt good. The riding had paid off and my body had responded well. I could not have done it without riding with a friend, having great support, and the right food. Thanks to all. I could not have done it without your help.
All in all, I was 22 minutes faster on the bike and about 15 minutes faster overall. All the riding the last year and through the winter has paid dividends – less suffering and more time enjoying the ride and experience.
I just love this ride. There are many reasons why I love this ride – family, friends, difficulty, motivation, weather – all add to the beauty that is this early season ride in the small Danish town.
The trip started Thursday afternoon with a drive to Ashland. Once again, we were able to stay at Bob’s house. (Thanks Bob – your hospitality is always appreciated. We are grateful to you for your generous nature.) Friday started out a bit later than anticipated but we the journey down to Solvang was not difficult. We even stopped in Sacramento and had an In & Out experience. Yes, a double double animal style and a strawberry shake – nothing like a good burger. It was part of the “carb” loading I was doing for the ride. We got to Solvang about 7 and had dinner with my parents. Good food as always. It not only tasty but the essential stuff for a pre-ride meal. (Thanks to OB12OLD and Mom for their graciousness in letting us hang with them and eat their food. It made the ride just that more enjoyable and relaxing.) After dinner, we got our packets and hooked up with some good friends, the Dunford’s. JD was ready to sleep and get on the road. I was happy to have another riding partner and wingman.
We slept in a little later than previous years – something about a change in daylight savings time being in March instead of April this year. We rolled out a little after 8 AM with a few pictures and anxious legs. It always amazes me how at the start, the big question for me is always how is my body going to react today? Have I prepared enough for this ride? The weather was not the usual heavy fog of the last few years. Instead, it was cold and overcast, just like Oregon riding this time of year without the rain. I felt at home. The first 25 miles was fast. We hit the first rest stop, got some food, and hung with the kids and the C for a couple of minutes. Christine and Kristen brought the kids over close to the rest stop and we got to see them for a few minutes. I caught up with OB12 OLD for a few moments and just gabbed a bit. JD came by with a group, groped me and we took off. It was good to just hang with Pops for a few minutes on the road. We didn’t talk to him till after the ride was over.
We cruised all the way over to the 60 mile stop before stopping again. Once again, the family was there plus my Mom hooked me up with a sandwich. Cool! I was good for the rest of the ride. Usually this is where I write about the pain of the last 40 miles. Not this year, the weather was much milder on the coast with very little wind. Plus, it stayed cooler all day long so I didn’t get beat up by the sun. We had planned on stopping around mile 85 before the hills, not this year. I took a quick natural break before the hills and closed out the ride. My fastest 10 miles split was the last 10 miles of the ride. I felt good. The riding had paid off and my body had responded well. I could not have done it without riding with a friend, having great support, and the right food. Thanks to all. I could not have done it without your help.
All in all, I was 22 minutes faster on the bike and about 15 minutes faster overall. All the riding the last year and through the winter has paid dividends – less suffering and more time enjoying the ride and experience.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Friday Night Basketball
After work on Friday night, the C came up with the kids and we got something to eat and just hung out. We were going to to play basketball but that fell through - something about the gym needing the right insurance paperwork - so we decided to head over the high school gym where Newberg was in the second round of the OSAA basketball tourney against my mom's alma mater, Clackamas. On our way into the gym, we ran into a few friends. We sat by some more. It felt like we were part of a community. Then we watched Newberg fight back from a rough first half to win, 57-54, and move on to the Elite 8 of the 6A tourney. The crowd was standing room only and the students were crazy. A couple of times I got caught up in the emotion, as I can do, and made loud comments and yelled, especially after Taylor Braun's (tall player in picture) two-handed throw down. Bam!!! Got to love supporting the home team...
The morning started off early with a stop in back at the high school. This time, not for basketball, but for Cassie's "Solo Ensemble." This is where students play their instruments for judges for grading and insight into how to play better. I was proud of Cassie. She worked hard at preparing and put forth her best effort. The only issue I had was calling the event a "Solo Ensemble." Solos can't be an ensemble. I know that it is a gathering of solos but it is like saying "Lone Rangers." Next.
This was the last Saturday to ride before Solvang. So I headed out into the 40 degree weather with a 50 percent chance of rain for a five hour tour. It ended up being a 4 hour 20 minute tour due to just being cold. There was very little rain but plenty of wind and cold. My legs still are feeling the after effects but I think I am ready for the first ride of the season. It's going to be a hard focusing at work this week. I'll be thinking about getting to SoCal for the ride and a bit of vacation with the family.
We watch this show called "Friday Night Lights." It is a story about a small town in Texas. I just watch it to remind me of Texas. Don't get me wrong, I realize that TV shows are not reality. I don't watch the show and say that's how it is. I watch and remember. I miss San Antonio and my Texas license plate on my truck. I miss the pace and the people - not that Oregon is a bad place to be and I really love my job - it is just not Texas!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
U2ing
It has been a crazy week in Oregon. The weather has been up and down - rain, sleet, snow, sun - all happening in one day in some cases. Even with the weather being uncooperative, it didn't slow the pain train down. All told some 6 1/2 hours on the bike with some seriously hard riding. The first two days riding was spinning in the garage, just sweating and suffering for an hour at a time. On Thursday, I got home and Cassie asked me if I was going to ride. I said, "Sure, want to go?" She was all excited to go so we rode on semi-dry roads over my 7.25 mile circuit under the street lights. We did two loops and a bit more in 70 minutes. Part of the circuit is a short steep hill in our old neighborhood. It goes to 9 - 10% over about 1/3 of a mile. I have been using it to get out of the saddle and push as hard as I can to the top. We mixed in 4 hard sprints in the circuits to make it an intense night. Cas liked the work out. The difference was in the morning, I was a bit sore and she was not... Oooh to be young again!
Saturday was at least clear and started out at 42 degrees and cloudy. The roads were dry. After dropping Craig off to go on a day of cross country skiing, I got on the bike and headed to Haag Lake. I forgot to charge the Garmin so I was GPSless. This actually worked to my advantage. I pushed all 200 minutes on the road. On hills, I'd stand and push the bigger gear to the top. I'd pedal down the hills as well. It was 60 hilly, rolling miles that worked my legs so much that going up and down stairs today was tough. In reviewing 2008 to 2009 Solvang prep, I have been able to put up 3 60+ mile rides (I will add another next Saturday) this year to only 1 last year. The total mileage to this point is in the 2008 favor but the time on the bike favors 2009. I have been riding more hills and rolling miles this year than last. I know this will pay off in two weeks in SoCal.
As part of my riding, I started listening to my U2 collection while riding. There are 208 U2 songs on my iPod. I plan on listening to all of them before switching. I am at #45 after this last ride. Got to love Bono, Larry, Adam, and the Edge.Tonight, we spent time at the Bishop's house, chatting and chewing with new members of the ward at a dinner social. I spent a good deal of time talking to other bike riders, planning for our 12 hour STP ride this summer. The plan is to get a group to ride with the first 100 and save energy and release quickly at the halfway point while minimizing rests in the second half. The 12 hour ride is possible but will take some work. The miles now will aid later. As the data shows, the longer rides on Saturday are part of the plan. After daylight savings kicks in, there will be more daylight hours in the evening to ride and combo up Friday and Saturday for longer rides. Also, at the Bishop's dinner, I got to talk to a visitor from Prinville who was my dad's Scout leader - too cool!
This week has some excitement - meeting at the HS to review options for Cassie, Craig's first band concert, youth group meetings preparing for our summer high adventure, Friday basketball with the Elders, and work in general - all the while trying to get in my hours. Fun!
Only two weeks to vacation and Solvang! I am so happy that the C and the family are coming with me this year. I am in need of some vacation....
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)