At least what passes for Spring in Colorado. It actually got above 70 today, warmest it's been since I've been here. But, it's also supposed to snow tomorrow night. For the year-round cyclist, it's time to catch up on bike maintenance, and oh, how I've been slacking. But it's just not worth trying to clean a bike when you're riding through slush several times a week during the winter months.
Now that the slush is gone for the most part, gears are back on the Pompino as well as road wheels and skinny slick tires. After that swap, I suddenly found myself going 4mph faster for the same effort. Tires can account for 1-2mph, but 4 was too much. I knew my average speed had been slow lately, but I attributed that to high winds, long hills, and possibly over training considering I've ridden at least 12 miles everyday for the last four weeks. While those reasons may have contributed, this sudden jump in speed had my puzzled.
Turns out my front hub on my cross/winter wheel was shot. Just turning the axle by hand felt like the ball bearings had been replaced with sand. It's currently disassembled on my bedroom floor. I couldn't find any visual defects in the cups or cones, so hopefully new bearings will solve the problem. Last time I had this problem, I tried to just clean the old bearings. A month later I wound up with a permanently damaged hub. I'm hoping for better luck with new bearings and proper degreaser. Other maintenance includes cleaning/lubing or replacing chains, re-aligning brakes, re-greasing pedal spindles, and a good wash. Fortunately, I enjoy these types of things.
I can tell I've been spending too much time on the road bike. My mountain bike feels weird now with wide handlebars and upright position. Spring also means I'll be able to ride the trails more though. The first club ride is Wednesday followed by the April meeting on Thursday. Both of which I'm looking forward too!
3.30.2014
3.16.2014
Buckhorn Road
I set out on this ride in hopes of reaching my goal of 200 miles for the week. I had ridden 144 miles so far - commuting, running errands, and other long recreational road rides. With 20-30mph winds blowing all day, I knew this was going to be a tough one, made worse by the fact that the route I wanted to take was uphill and upwind. So I set out with a focus on distance not speed. I kept my heart rate as low as I could up the hills.
The route was more exposed than my previous canyon road rides, but the scenery was amazing. Outside the city limits, the "Old West" idea still thrives. I passed lots of big ranches with horses, cows and lots of open, well defended land. One sign I saw read, "If you can read this, you are in range. Absolutely no trespassing." Another more humorous sign read, "Trespassers will be violated." That one made me laugh. I also passed through Stout, CO population 47 1/2 - no lie.
Fourteen miles in, I learned that the road was closed 8 miles ahead. I thought about taking a different route since this would only give me 22 miles at the halfway point. I needed at least 28. Then another thought came into my head: a closed road with no traffic could be a cyclist's paradise. I was also curious as to why it was closed. The answer: there is no road. Instead, there's a river. Extensive, unrepaired damage from last fall's flood. It's amazing what water can do. Parts of the pavement were wrinkled and bent but not broken. Some chunks had floated down the road. I wanted to cross the river to check out the road on the other side. But, it was getting cold, and bike shoes and wet rocks don't mix. I especially didn't want to cross it twice, and it was too deep and/or rocky to ride across. So, I turned back.
On the way back I thought I would need 12 more miles to reach my goal. It was getting darker and colder, and my extremities were already numb. I was pretty sure I was going to call it a day at 44. Once I got closer, however, I realised I would only need 10 due to taking a slightly different route. 12 was too much, but 10 I could do. I pedalled harder to warm up, watched the sunset, and turned my light from strobe to solid. I rode 5 miles North, upwind, and 5 easy miles back downwind, just making my goal of 200.
Buckhorn Rd turns into Stove Prairie which connects to Poudre Canyon Hwy. Sometime in the near future I plan to ride the complete loop - in the vicinity of 65 miles. Before I do that, I need lower gears and a new seat. I think I've actually managed to wear out my current saddle. It's developed a "U" shape and isn't comfortable anyway I sit. I've got a Brooks B17 saddle on the way; pretty much the standard for long distance riding as the leather conforms to your rear after a short break-in period. I can't wait! I think I'll also rig up a handlebar bag for easy access to my camera, snacks, etc. Eventually, I'd like to build up a bike more suited to long distances. The Pompino has a weird fit and geometry that is NOT stable at high speeds. It's also not even meant to run multiple gears. But, it'll do for now.
The route was more exposed than my previous canyon road rides, but the scenery was amazing. Outside the city limits, the "Old West" idea still thrives. I passed lots of big ranches with horses, cows and lots of open, well defended land. One sign I saw read, "If you can read this, you are in range. Absolutely no trespassing." Another more humorous sign read, "Trespassers will be violated." That one made me laugh. I also passed through Stout, CO population 47 1/2 - no lie.
Fourteen miles in, I learned that the road was closed 8 miles ahead. I thought about taking a different route since this would only give me 22 miles at the halfway point. I needed at least 28. Then another thought came into my head: a closed road with no traffic could be a cyclist's paradise. I was also curious as to why it was closed. The answer: there is no road. Instead, there's a river. Extensive, unrepaired damage from last fall's flood. It's amazing what water can do. Parts of the pavement were wrinkled and bent but not broken. Some chunks had floated down the road. I wanted to cross the river to check out the road on the other side. But, it was getting cold, and bike shoes and wet rocks don't mix. I especially didn't want to cross it twice, and it was too deep and/or rocky to ride across. So, I turned back.
On the way back I thought I would need 12 more miles to reach my goal. It was getting darker and colder, and my extremities were already numb. I was pretty sure I was going to call it a day at 44. Once I got closer, however, I realised I would only need 10 due to taking a slightly different route. 12 was too much, but 10 I could do. I pedalled harder to warm up, watched the sunset, and turned my light from strobe to solid. I rode 5 miles North, upwind, and 5 easy miles back downwind, just making my goal of 200.
Buckhorn Rd turns into Stove Prairie which connects to Poudre Canyon Hwy. Sometime in the near future I plan to ride the complete loop - in the vicinity of 65 miles. Before I do that, I need lower gears and a new seat. I think I've actually managed to wear out my current saddle. It's developed a "U" shape and isn't comfortable anyway I sit. I've got a Brooks B17 saddle on the way; pretty much the standard for long distance riding as the leather conforms to your rear after a short break-in period. I can't wait! I think I'll also rig up a handlebar bag for easy access to my camera, snacks, etc. Eventually, I'd like to build up a bike more suited to long distances. The Pompino has a weird fit and geometry that is NOT stable at high speeds. It's also not even meant to run multiple gears. But, it'll do for now.
3.10.2014
The Other Cyclists are Staring At Me
It was the warmest day of the year so far, and everyone was out enjoying it - 70 degrees with a blue sky. I saw tons of cyclists in and around town, but once I got passed Rist Canyon Rd, they vanished. Not a single one in Poudre Canyon; something else I don't understand. It was a great ride! No lung-busting, gut-wrenching climbs. No break-neck speeds. Just a gradual incline winding alongside the Poudre River with scenic views around every turn, most too big for my view finder. There were plenty of other recreators out hiking, fly fishing, and picnicing by the river at various parks and trails. My goal was to reach Hewlett Gulch and explore the area since it is an off-leash trail. I've heard it was damaged by fires and floods from the past few years and was wondering if it is still rideable. I didn't bring a map and didn't pinpoint it's exact location prior to setting out. I should've because as it turns out, I turned around less than 500 feet from it. That was disappointing to find out, but I'm sure I'll be back there soon.
My legs rarely burn while biking anymore, but that ride did it. It was my longest ride at this altitude, and I'm still feeling it. Counting my morning commute, I got in 55 miles. Finished the day with Blackjack Pizza and a Breckenridge Brewery IPA. Then slept like a log.
3.05.2014
Frugality
By choice, I love it. By necessity, not so much. In part I was raised to be somewhat frugal. For instance, most off-brands are exactly the same as the name brand, like raisin bran or soap. Other things you really don't want to skimp on, like toilet paper. It also comes from all of my camping and backpacking which teaches you exactly how much you need to live. The best part is that saving money on everyday things allows you to spend it on things you really enjoy, like bike parts and beer. Although, for me, bike parts are easily justified anyways as they account for transportation, exercise, entertainment, and therapy costs. When I moved to Colorado, I knew I would need to stretch my savings as far is they would go.
At first I thought I had plenty of money to last three months, but as always, it disappeared faster than I had thought. Things like my rent deposit, buying a bed, and warmer clothes really took out a chunk. I'm always fairly frugal by choice, but as time wore on, I found myself nearing the extreme end of the spectrum as my savings dwindled. I started eating lots of beans, not buying meat, and using my backpacking skills like rationing toilet paper and washing dishes with dirt. Ok, maybe not the latter, but you get the idea. For the record, I do use dirt while camping and can usually get a 1:1 ratio for wipes per square with quality tp.
It's my understanding that most people go through this in the transition to adulthood. A time where everything you own will fit in your car, and if you fill up your gas tank, you won't be able to afford next month's rent. I think it builds character, and I'm sure I'll look back on it one day with nostalgia. But right now I'm so ready for a pay check. Just one more week!
At first I thought I had plenty of money to last three months, but as always, it disappeared faster than I had thought. Things like my rent deposit, buying a bed, and warmer clothes really took out a chunk. I'm always fairly frugal by choice, but as time wore on, I found myself nearing the extreme end of the spectrum as my savings dwindled. I started eating lots of beans, not buying meat, and using my backpacking skills like rationing toilet paper and washing dishes with dirt. Ok, maybe not the latter, but you get the idea. For the record, I do use dirt while camping and can usually get a 1:1 ratio for wipes per square with quality tp.
It's my understanding that most people go through this in the transition to adulthood. A time where everything you own will fit in your car, and if you fill up your gas tank, you won't be able to afford next month's rent. I think it builds character, and I'm sure I'll look back on it one day with nostalgia. But right now I'm so ready for a pay check. Just one more week!
3.03.2014
A Time for Change
In the last few months, I’ve been
through LOTS of changes: transitioning from student to working professional,
dependence to independence, Mississippi to Colorado, and living with roommates
to living at home and back again. So, why not some more? I was debating whether I should post this as it's pretty personal. But, it should be fairly axiomatic as to why I need to. For the most part I
love the way I am. I like being introverted and adventurous. I usually even
like being short (except when it comes to dating). There are a few things,
however, that I don’t like, such as my quiet voice, my shyness, and my
passiveness. A professor once told me that people generally settle into a
personality in their early twenties and stay that way for the remainder of
their lives. It’s not too late for a change, but the clock is ticking.
I find I have to limit my options and really force myself into change. It's like mountain biking. When riding a geared bike, I don’t have the will power to push myself to the limit. Eventually I default to a lower, easier gear. With a single speed, however, I have no such option. If there’s a hill, I attack it with every ounce of energy to get to the top, or I walk. I hate walking.
All my life I’ve had a soft voice. Always told to speak up, asked to repeat myself. That’s part of the reason for change. The other part is that I just admire people that effortlessly project their voice. It gives the impression of confidence and strength. I like that. The difficulty here is simply reminding myself to do it. Just a day of speaking loudly and I’d probably get used to it and not even have to think about it. Still working on a solution.
I’ve just about conquered shyness, at least to a point with which I’m comfortable. I can carry on a conversation with a stranger if I want. But, I’m also comfortable with silence. I still find myself being shy occasionally, and it’s something I want to eliminate entirely. I see no benefit to shyness. Not to be confused with introversion. I love solitude at times, but I don’t want some weird emotion keeping me there. Reasons for change: I haven’t had a girlfriend in almost three years, and have only made a few friends in that time. Possibly more from a lack of trying than anything. That’s not how I want to live. Although to be fair, for the last year employment and housing have been my top priorities, but those are now taken care of. Part of this is already remedied with my move to Colorado where I have a lot more in common with people. The other fix is just getting out of the house, and again, lots of opportunities for that here: dog park, hiking, mountain biking, racing, climbing, music, beer. The list is excitingly endless.
Passiveness applies to both good and bad emotions. Such as not talking to the cute girl. Or, avoiding confrontation for the sake of peace when there’s a legitimate cause worth standing up for. For example, last weekend when another guy was all over the girl I was supposed to be “hanging out” with. Clearly she misunderstood me when I asked. I’ve never wanted to punch somebody (the other guy) so bad in my life. And, I wish I would've, or at least said something at the time. It was bullshit. She's definitely not worth fighting for, but that was way out of line.
Another thing is developing a sense of style. As it turns out, I like wearing clothes that make me look good. So, I've been expanding my wardrobe here and there and giving away things I don't wear. I'm also planning on getting a tattoo similar to the background of this blog, but I could probably write an entire post on that. All just symbols of change and self expression.
“We’ve gotta make a decision: We leave tonight or live and die this way.” – Tracy Chapman.
It starts now. Change can’t wait and this is a perfect time in my life for it. It starts with small steps and climbs toward a permanent difference. I’m not trying to be perfect; in fact, I don’t believe in perfection. It’s an impossible, subjective standard that provides no useful comparison. But, there’s no reason not to strive for improvement.
I find I have to limit my options and really force myself into change. It's like mountain biking. When riding a geared bike, I don’t have the will power to push myself to the limit. Eventually I default to a lower, easier gear. With a single speed, however, I have no such option. If there’s a hill, I attack it with every ounce of energy to get to the top, or I walk. I hate walking.
All my life I’ve had a soft voice. Always told to speak up, asked to repeat myself. That’s part of the reason for change. The other part is that I just admire people that effortlessly project their voice. It gives the impression of confidence and strength. I like that. The difficulty here is simply reminding myself to do it. Just a day of speaking loudly and I’d probably get used to it and not even have to think about it. Still working on a solution.
I’ve just about conquered shyness, at least to a point with which I’m comfortable. I can carry on a conversation with a stranger if I want. But, I’m also comfortable with silence. I still find myself being shy occasionally, and it’s something I want to eliminate entirely. I see no benefit to shyness. Not to be confused with introversion. I love solitude at times, but I don’t want some weird emotion keeping me there. Reasons for change: I haven’t had a girlfriend in almost three years, and have only made a few friends in that time. Possibly more from a lack of trying than anything. That’s not how I want to live. Although to be fair, for the last year employment and housing have been my top priorities, but those are now taken care of. Part of this is already remedied with my move to Colorado where I have a lot more in common with people. The other fix is just getting out of the house, and again, lots of opportunities for that here: dog park, hiking, mountain biking, racing, climbing, music, beer. The list is excitingly endless.
Passiveness applies to both good and bad emotions. Such as not talking to the cute girl. Or, avoiding confrontation for the sake of peace when there’s a legitimate cause worth standing up for. For example, last weekend when another guy was all over the girl I was supposed to be “hanging out” with. Clearly she misunderstood me when I asked. I’ve never wanted to punch somebody (the other guy) so bad in my life. And, I wish I would've, or at least said something at the time. It was bullshit. She's definitely not worth fighting for, but that was way out of line.
Another thing is developing a sense of style. As it turns out, I like wearing clothes that make me look good. So, I've been expanding my wardrobe here and there and giving away things I don't wear. I'm also planning on getting a tattoo similar to the background of this blog, but I could probably write an entire post on that. All just symbols of change and self expression.
“We’ve gotta make a decision: We leave tonight or live and die this way.” – Tracy Chapman.
It starts now. Change can’t wait and this is a perfect time in my life for it. It starts with small steps and climbs toward a permanent difference. I’m not trying to be perfect; in fact, I don’t believe in perfection. It’s an impossible, subjective standard that provides no useful comparison. But, there’s no reason not to strive for improvement.
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