The Trip 2005

The Wrap

2005-10-14T15:23:00.000-06:00

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And now, the Wrap-Up post...

After being off the bike for a week now, it's difficult to fathom that the trip actually went off without a hitch. Evidently I saved every last ounce of energy I had to fall apart while relaxing.

Last Tuesday was my first day back at work after almost two weeks off, and it was a big day. An Inbox so crowded that Halloween was scared. Flu shot day, and I happened to be in the right place at the right time to be first in line. The nurse even found a red spot in my tattoo to stick the needle. "This is going to be a good day," I remember thinking. That same morning I also began taking the new dosage of blood pressure medication, which happened to be double the previous dosage. I was feeling pretty healthy.

The day turned out to be so busy and full of commotion that I forgot to eat lunch, which I've done before, I just make it up at dinner. After work I made my way up to the bar for a couple beers with some of the folks who supported me so much throughout the planning and actual undertaking of The Trip. I thought I was pacing myself, after all, it's not like I'm 21 and having my first beer.

It is a truly bizarre feeling to be sitting up, lucid and knowing what is going on around oneself, then seeing the room fade to white, then black, thinking to oneself, "Oh...no."

My eyes opened to lots of downward-pointing nose-holes, with the ceiling as a backdrop. "Hmm, something happened. Somehwere I lost track of time (and lots of other faculties)." I was out for anywhere from 45 seconds to 5 minutes, depending on who you asked and their degree of panic. The paramedics questioned me on history (when were you born?), civics (who is the current President of the United States?) and language (they asked me in English). Was I becoming a U.S. Citizen again? I thought I did that when I emerged from the womb?

After the curtain was lifted, I felt like a hundred bucks. Aside from feeling a little woozy for a couple of days, I was fine. The doc confirmed all of this and I'll be going in soon for some blood work.

I guess it goes to show you that one can be prepared for a massive test of one's own endurance, but often times nature sneaks up from behind and unloads a sucker punch. This one was a doozy, and no longer will I think of myself as invincible. Not that I did, but I certainly did not see any of a wide range of natural disasters, no matter how small, heading my way and clobbering me with the brute force it did.

All in all, 100% worth the effort and energy put into planning and achieving this end. Thank you all for your support throughout, and for your contribution to the cause. I will see you for the next trip in 2006!

Day last: Home again

2005-10-10T08:39:00.000-06:00

After thirteen hours on the road yesterday, home at last. Just a little post to let everyone know I'm home. I will pen an epilogue after waking up, dusting the SNOW OFF MY CAR and re-acclimating to life at altitude.

Stay tuned :-)

The Trip 2005: Another pledge

2005-10-05T10:58:00.000-06:00

Almost forgot - Bill Martin, this one's for you. A picture of me wearing a Dallas Cowboys hat, tags still attached. I'm a Niners fan for those of you who do not know the 'football' me. This picture was taken outside of Childress, Texas. I couldn't get a banner, Bill, but hope the hat will suffice to secure your pledge. You get the hat when I return. That is all.

The Trip 2005: Pills

2005-10-05T08:01:00.000-06:00

One thing I've never been able to do until this trip is swallow pills without first chewing them. To be sure I was at peak efficiency (as much as I could be), I took several vitamins and my blood pressure medication. Mashing these into a vile powder was time-consuming and just tasted like evil. After a few practices with harmless vitamins, I finally figured out how to get those bad boys into my system.

I don't know why it was as kids we don't chew our food enough (to our parents' satisfaction), we wolf down a meal so we can get back outside and play, but we cannot swallow a teeny, tiny pill whole when we're adults. Maybe if we had something to do afterward, like go out and play, it would be easier.

Day 7: Safe, Sound, Successful

2005-10-04T23:21:00.000-06:00

Day seven began like day six ended - with an ever-persistent southerly wind. Now, I never understood when weatherfolk forecast the weather and claim "a southerly wind will grace the plains tomorrow" exactly what it is they mean. Will wind be blowing FROM the south, or is it blowing TOWARD the south?

I now know the answer, and I don't like it.

Wind was blowing from the south again at about 15-18 mph, and sucked my waning energy away like getting a flat rear tire halfway between work and home with no spare tube. Hey, that sounds like a hoot.

For sanity's sake, the road outside of Decatur becomes somewhat 'iffy' as 287 turns into 380, and to top it off, there was some sort of unannounced construction being performed. U.S. 380 connects Decatur to Denton, about 28 miles away. I thought perhaps we'd get to Denton and I'd take 380 to 289, which is Preston Road, the Academy Boulevard (Colorado Springs) of Plano, Texas.

There are two things that the towns in north-central Texas do not believe in. Bike lanes/shoulders and self-serve car washes. The road to Plano went through Denton and on toward McKinney, which is out east. It was the only route I could find on a good map to get to Plano without trying not to be noticed riding illegally on I-35 E. So the final leg of the trip was short, windy and a little anti-climactic because of the need to pack the bike in the trunk through impassable terrain, construction and lack-o-shoulder.

The Bonneville (chase vehicle, carrier of the crew chief, a.k.a. Mom) still had some strain of atomic alien mud caked in the wheelwells from back on day one on the road between Colorado Springs and Pueblo, Colo. This stuff could hold tiles on the space shuttle it was so gooey. I've been to Plano many, many times and have had no luck in locating one of those (come on people, you know what I'm talking about) drive your car in, spray it, brush it, drive it out and dry it places. They do not exist in this reality. After asking the guy behind the counter at tonight's hotel of such a place, he sort of lifted an eyebrow and looked at me like I had just asked him to rob the IHOP next door armed with only a 2-quart Pyrex dish.

After a trip to the local full-serve car wash (just called 'car wash' here), most bug guts had been washed away, the outside was shiny and new, but the atomic alien mud still clung to the wheelwells as if for dear life. Right next door lies a Wal-Mart, and they sell lots of buckets and brushes and other stuff I probably didn't need but they looked neat and useful, so I bought them. An 18-pack of washcloths? Suuuure! A three-pack of Orbit gum? You bet! I'm that age now where kids ask me, "Hey mister, you got any gum?" I tell 'em to scram or I'll tell their mother they were letting the air out of tires in the parking lot.

Cleaned the bike tonight, sat in the hot tub here at the hotel and unwound after what has been a week (doesn't seem like it!). I'm so glad my mom was here to experience this with me. She knows me so well and knew when to be where at what time without even having to coordinate ahead of time. The trip would not have been remotely possible without her, and to think there was a chance I was going to go alone and camp along the way. Nothing against my camping or survival skills, but I've learned enough on this journey without having to worry about dispatching a bear or finding a safe place to sleep. Thank you mom, for keeping me honest without nagging or being overbearing. You were just right :-)

Accomplishments:

Back to back 70-mile days.
Learned my physical limits.
Will see my kids.
Raised money and awareness for Parkinson's Disease Research.
Spent lots of quality time with mom.
Made me closer to my family and friends.
Lost some weight.
Achieved a world-class farmer's tan.
Did not experience one flat tire.
Finally came to terms with my thinning hairline. Rebel Yell, baby.
Sang the entire Sinatra songbook in my head, The Coffee Song out loud while riding.
Earned points for staying in hotels owned by a new sponsor for work.
Learned how to launder clothes in a bathtub (wear them in layers, get wet, do calisthenics).

...and last of all but not least...

Earned the right to loaf my butt off this winter. I won't, but it feels good to be able to relax after so many months of planning.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone when I get home. Thanks again for all of your support and even if you doubted me (which you should have - 750 miles in 8 days), thanks for still pushing me to go and to do my best.

PS from Mom....that's what Mom's are for ...and I am a very lucky one that my kids trust me enough to invite me along even at the risk of being told "I told you so" (750 miles in 8 days????....) but I have learned the most important thing is to be there, say little and do whatever it takes to support success . It has been an awesome trip! Thank you Todd!

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED: 327 MILES

Day 6: One of those days (in the life)

2005-10-03T21:37:00.000-06:00

Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my head. Made my way downstairs and drank a cup, and looking up, I noticed I was up awfully early. Found my coat and grabbed my hat, walked across the street to find Sonic CLOSED.

As Gedde Watanabe saith in Sixteen Candles, "The Donger need FOOD!"

Settling for Holiday Inn Express' version of breakfast, I ate as much as I could before settling in for the day. It was just one of those days where not so much one big, bad thing happened, but lots of little, annoying things happened, not the least of which was in the middle of tonight's post, encountering the Big Bad Blue Screen of Death, brought to you by Microsoft. Physical memory dump.

Without going into excessive detail as to what went wrong, let's focus on what went right.

Since I am not going to make my initial estimate of the entire trip on two wheels (750 miles), I have accepted that the mileage I do finish with will raise money for a good cause, and that will be ok. While this could be seen as a failure, I choose to see it as a learning experience. When all is said and done, if all legs of the journey were to be laid end to end, I will have travelled past Amarillo from Colorado Springs, and that's an achievement. Mom says it is a success for her that I have not tried to kill myself by sticking to the original flight plan as it may've placed me in great peril. It is also true that the prominent purpose for me coming down here is to see my kids, and I will be doing that as well. Another good thing. It is good exercise, chalk up another positive, and seeing Mom is always good. Hey, one more thing is that many people will receive post cards from me, and that's always fun, isn't it? Controlling the grasshopper population by rolling over them from time to time is a useful public service, and quality time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life helps clean out the attic and reset the body for winter.

With that many good things going on, it makes lack of breakfast burrito and headwinds seem insignificant, although headwinds still stink to high heaven (see sour milk-drinking/battery-licking reference in Day 5 post). Geez, I could write a thesis on headwinds and compare them to all things sucky for eternity. Nothing gets under my skin like a good headwind and the occasional mosquito, but mosquitoes you can squash or chase away. Headwinds persist and wear you down from the outside in. You get my drift...

Anyhoo, Wichita Falls tonight. It seems every third day is the one that just gets me down. Two solid days followed by a day of mental and physical exhaustion. Only 21 miles today (did I mention the ferocious headwind?), but tomorrow represents the beginning of the end of the pilgrimage. One might think that the physical demands far outweigh the mental, but I am here to tell you that as fun as riding a bicycle is for me, with no outside stimuli aside from grasshopper target practice and the sound of the grasshopper orchestra in the trees, there's not much else to occupy oneself with. Perhaps tomorrow will be Count Out of State License Plate Day, who knows. Lesson learned in the keeping focused portion of the trip. It's harder than I thought it would be.

Today's PS from the Driver/Mom/Chief - the driving is routine - watching the landscape and keeping a look out for road/shoulder hazards, stopping often enough to read part of the paper or a chapter in my book - I am enjoying the pace. While the Rider expresses frustration from time to time the clock says he is making consistent good time - physically it looks effortless (easy for me to say) but as he says - mentally it is a challenge. From a Mom's vantage point it is rewarding to be an ovserver as he figures it out. Tonights accomodations are great and tomorrow will be another and even better day. Night all...

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED: 301 MILES

Day 5: Wind, thanks, and bad dreams

2005-10-02T20:34:00.000-06:00

At the halfway point of The Trip (Amarillo), some things were certain. Texas is big. Texas is flat. Texas is hot.

Woke up at 5:45 a.m. to fill the gas tank next door at Denny's. I was helped by an unusually tall woman named Diane, who was also unusually nice. After perusing the menu, I ended up with The Heartland Scramble, which should be renamed The 'I Need A Nap After Eating This' Scramble. Reported back to the hotel room and was alseep before my head hit the pillow. Mom was more sensible and slept through the big breakfast excursion.

Thank God I like the hot. After a sunburn on my arms made it necessary to purchase more powerful (and unexpired) sunscreen, the heat was even more bearable. Taking off from just outside of Amarillo (limited-access highways through larger towns made it necessary), the wind was present from the first revolution of the wheels. Man, wind again. I'd rather be chased by Trojans shooting arrows at my heels.

Luckily, although the wind was gusting at what honestly felt like 20-25 mph, it was crossing me directly from the right. Anything is better than a headwind, even drinking sour milk or licking a 9-volt battery. The first 30 miles went as smoothly as they could - the road was mostly flat, but after mile 40 it became apparent that Mother Nature was once again not willing to cooperate with my plan. The wind shifted, average speed went down, and legs tired noticeably quicker.

After a little rest and picking up a few miles in the chase vehicle, I got back out to crank out some more miles, but quickly remembered what a headwind does to one's resolve - it is demoralizing, almost like pedaling backwards.

So, 56 miles today. I have realized that my wild boast of 100 miles, seven days straight was extremely disproportionate to my ability, even though I've been training. Sure, I'm 40, but I'm not sure I could do it at 20 (although I'm in better shape right now ;-)

I want to thank all of the truckers who have passed me from the beginning. For the courtesy of moving over a lane when you can afford it, for driving in the lane closest to me and giving me an artificial tailwind, and for honking in support of my two-wheeled endeavor. The more I think about it, riding on U.S. 287 is safer the more trucks there are as truckers are a courteous breed, they know how to drive big rigs, and they rarely, if ever, fall asleep at the wheel. I have been checking every 300-500 yards just to be sure no one's creeping up in the grasshopper lane (see previous post for grasshopper reference).

Tonight we're staying in Childress, a town which used to hold a special meaning for me, and I guess still retains some residual specialness. This was a rude awakening, ironically, because I was asleep. I had three dreams last night, none of which ended well, and were so...random that they kept a perfect night's sleep from happening. One of them involved Childress - eerily foreshadowing tonight's accomodations.

From here on out it will be difficult to forecast a destination each day as time is running short (must plan for a Wednesday arrival in The Big D), and there is a lack of towns with hotels between here and Denton. Each day will be a ride until I drop scenario, then a drive to the closest hotel. The bike is purring along, and the body feels good, just tired.

PS from the Pickup Crew Chief....Interesting to experience five days in a row of the same activity and to be aware of the differences of each day. We've got the what-to-eat-when routine under control and the average miles per hour a pretty consistent, miles between check points are comfortable and fun....it appears the mental preparation makes the most difference....it was another good day...

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED: 280 MILES

Day 4: Hot, hotter and hopping stuff

2005-10-01T19:06:00.000-06:00

Amarillo By Mornin'? No. That song always reminds me of a long-lost friend. Matt McCue would sing it at karaoke, and although I'm not a big country music fan and didn't know the original artist, I could tell he was covering it well.

Anyway, Amarillo. The temperature was 86º today, but it could have been 106º for all I cared - the hotter the better. Compared to day 1 when temps never rose above 55º. The traffic from Dumas to Amarillo was laden with trucks, and most honks, if not all of them, were supportive. The cool thing about trucks is the artificial tailwind created when they blow by at 70+ mph. Sweet.

Something else I've noticed about a trip like this is how a year ago, 30 miles round trip, broken up into two 15 mile increments seemed like a colossal achievement, especially the two miles at the end of the jaunt home - all uphill, and usually into a headwind. When attacking a journey of this length, hills don't seem to bother one as much. I know, I know wiseguys, sure, over 750 land miles the altitude goes from 6,500 feet to sea level (roughly), but it's not like the route was built on a steep and consistent decline over that span. It ain't all downhill, folks. Come on Jim Old, back me up on this.

Funny thing, grasshoppers. They sit on the side of the road, in MY lane, hugging the warm pavement until traffic approaches (namely me). They then decide that the only suitable escape route is a leap up and directly into my crotch. What th'? Like dead skunks, squirrels and other various and sundry mamalia are not enough to dodge, now I must contend with the equivalent of a shooting gallery, and aimed at a place intended only to be treated nicely. Not a big fan of the insects.

Energy was up today as yesterday's epiphany regarding nutrition and "dangit, why am I so tired?" opened my eyes. This morning began with an early wake up call to dine at the only breakfast joint in Dumas - a truck stop named Albert's. The service was excellent, the food great (three eggs over medium, sausage, hash browns and toast) and the price was right. After an hour and a half supplementary nap, we were up and out by 10:30 am.

Today's leg of the ride also afforded more photo-ops. Here's a picture of the road (Highway 287, ab out 30 miles outside of Dumas). This is to show you how desolate this stretch of road can be, and to show Junior that I still know how to cross a highway without getting hit by oncoming traffic.

This next one is for Cleo. She makes me laugh every single solitary time I see her, and this is one of those phrases that just kills me.

PS from the Crew Chief - amazing the benefits of a steak dinner and a good nights sleep - what more does a Rider need? (well, I'll let let you talk to Todd about that......) Anyway, he was "ready to ride" and again made it look effortless as he zoomed past the check points with both thumbs up. The Driver had time for a few update phone calls to "support staff" back home and writing in a journal - the old fashioned way.

Amarillo is, well... Amarillo... so a Texas sized steak seemed the obvious choice for dinner. We watched a restaurant patron do his best to eat a 72 oz steak + baked potato, salad, shrimp cocktail and a dinner roll within an hour - the deal being if he was successful it was free. He made it through all but the baked potato...he had to pay...and no one even clapped. I guess that's Texas for ya!

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED: 225 MILES

Day 3: Sensibility

2005-09-30T18:55:00.000-06:00

The legs felt good and achilles tendons were somewhat less irritated this morning, thanks to the spa at the Cow Palace Inn. The main dining room and pool area seemed like an afterthought, and were likely outdoors before the atrium was built to protect it from the elements. Now, I didn't see the King and Queen Cow, but since I was in their house, I thought I'd try and find them to express what a lovely place they had. The suite was only a few dollars more than a regular room, so we had a view of...the atrium, where everyone ate and swam. Made a six pack of those yummy yam/chicken/black bean burritos for carb-power the previous night, however I am realizing that this is not the best way to go, to constantly burn carbs day in and day out. A body needs protein.

This was evident when my body's fuel gage went from full to 1/4 tank in the span of about two miles this morning. Little did I know that as well as being on the plains of Colorado, Lamar and today's destination, Springfield, Colo., while lower in altitude than Colorado Springs, still gains altitude during this leg of the journey. From 3,500 feet to 4,300 feet. I cried foul when hills, which typically have an upside and a downside, seemed to only have an upside and a level side. Yeeikes - not so good when you're learning about your own nutritional mortality.

After 30 miles (right at the windmill farm between Lamar and Springfield) it was also clear that Interstate 287 was not going to be as bike-friendly as I-50 was, with the broad, well-paved shoulders. It was smooth enough, but there are many more trucks on this portion of the journey, and the rumble strips which signify to sleeping drivers, "Get the hell off the shoulder, sleepyhead," were on the inside of the bike lane, making it necessary to ride nearest traffic.

Well, I'm bold and adventurous, but Indiana Jones was a fictional character. Me, I'm flesh and bone. I'm not going to risk my life to squeeze every last mile in. So, reassessing the situation, I realized I may have to curtail my mileage a bit to ensure that my children do not see me next on a morticians slab in litte teeny pieces.

So instead of blogging from Springfield tonight, you are reading these words as they were written from Dumas, Texas. A little ahead of schedule because of reality, and a sensible decision regarding safety. The distance from Colorado Springs to Dallas is 743 miles. My new estimate will be 500 miles in eight days, or about 60+ miles a day. It is difficult succumbing to the reality of one's limits, and humbling to admit it in public, but I won't lie to you people. I want to see you all again, and I will.

Tomorrow - Amarillo and beyond.

Mom's PS - Whew! the boy finally came to his senses - and very gracefully so I must say - he wants to be alive and I support that! The scenery today was tumble weed, a few fields of live stock, a field of windmills and more tumble weed dotting the wide open spaces of South Eastern Colorado. Still spotting the Rider every 5 miles or so - it's not often a person takes a 750 mile road trip 5 miles at a time.....Mom likes solitude so it suits just fine.

Thanks to the support group in Santa Cruz for cheering us on! Especially important is Todd's sister Stephanie - his biggest fan - who is holding down the home fort. We love you Stef and know you are with us every mile

More tomorrow......

TOTAL MILES TRAVELLED: 182

Day 2: Fun with numbers

2005-09-29T18:57:00.000-06:00

Hey, man - I'm sore! Another 77 miles today, leaving from Fowler and arriving safely in Lamar. On the way we saw Swink, Las Animas, La Junta and Hasty. That damn chili burger is still with me, but thanks to a 18 mph average, my 'wind' is no threat to anyone. That, and there's lots of cattle in this nape of the woods (neck of the way - Scotty, Dan), so I cover my tracks, so to speak. Also explains the extra mph in my average ;-)

Warmer morning still made for a slow start. What's killin' me are my achilles tendons. About 20 miles into today's ride I happened to glance down and sure enough, there were Trojan arrows protruding from my heels. Ouch. Chased by Trojans - uh-GAIN.

As the day wore on the riding got easier. Hats off to the CO DOT road crews, for two reasons. First off, all of the work they've done to repave U.S. 50 (this includes the shoulders!) - smooth as Nico or Shane on the grill on football Sundays. Secondly, for hiring absolute hotties for flag-persons. There was a two mile stretch of construction being covered by a hottie at one end and a hottie at the other. I was the recipient of a healthy smile and greeting at the beginning, and just when I thought hottie number two was ignoring me, she turns around, evidently conversing with hottie number one on the two-way, flashes a big smile and says "Have a nice day!" Now, this could have been mistaken for a simple greeting, but the devious look on her face made me think I had a hole in my shorts. That's right, tight lycra. Tights? No, the required uniform.

So, Lamar. Thriving metropolis on the plains of eastern Colorado. Closer to Kansas than Pueblo (please consult your maps), and a nice small-town atmosphere. Life moves slower, and it's refreshing. Stopped at the Wal-Mart for some t-shirts (forgot to pack some), razor blades (doh! forgot), and Vitamin B-complex (anyone at work see them on my desk?). The knees are hangin' in there, and I'm not sure this old boy will last all 750 miles, but he's sure as hell is going to try.

Tomorrow's goal, for those keeping score at home, will be Campo, Colorado, last bastion of Coloradoness before entering The Land That No One Wanted (thanks for the story, Bill Merlyn!). That's the Oklahoma Panhandle - 42.3 miles of vertical highway broken up by a large iron dinosaur in the middle. But that's a story for Saturday...

PS from the crew chief....while last night's accomodations in Fowler were not as elegant as the B&B in Germany 20 years ago Fowler has a small town charm of it's own- not the least of which was another motel guest from Germany who wished Todd a safe journey. Then there was the friendly owner of the-only-place-in-town-to-buy-a-postcard and the post mistress who actually counted back change from a $10 bill in the PROPER (do NOT call me old fashioned) way - coins FIRST and THEN the bills.

The second day on the road the Dude and his Driver were both more comfortable with the conditions so they leap frogged 5 to 10 miles at at time. While waiting for our rider to pass the check points the driver had time to learn how to operate a new camera, viedo, TV watching (give me a break!), e-mail checking (now that is good!) cell phone and read several short stories from a book by Wallace Stegner. All in all a very good day - mostly for sharing this adventure with the one and only Toddorado.

TOTAL MILES TRAVELLED: 153

Day 1: Wrap

2005-09-28T19:25:00.000-06:00

Greetings from smalltownsville, USA. Today's post comes to you from Fowler, Colorado, first stop on The Trip 2005. We arrived at 3:30 pm after a 76 mile leg which began with a frown.

I've lived in Colorado since 1993, and rarely (like countable on one finger) have I seen it rain in the morning (before, say, noon) at any time of the summer/autumn. This morning was like Mother Nature woke up and began crying all over my ZIP code. This enabled me to peform the couch maneuver, and Mom was able to sleep a bit longer as the altitude tends to interfere with regular sleeping patterns. It turned out to be okay leaving at 9:00 am instead of 6:00 am.

I rolled by The OverTime not even a mile into the journey, and several friends had gathered to send me off safely. Thanks you guys for caring and for taking the time out of your day.

The only hitch in the first leg was planned: Meridian Road. The road is the only practical direct link from Colorado Springs to Pueblo, where U.S. 50 heads east. I took this route in August, and it wore me right out - 2 inches deep of gravel and speed bumps generated by a gravel truck dumping its load at irregular intervals. With the rain this morning, Meridian was turned into a cakey, muddy mess, so I didn't think twice about slipping the bike in the trunk of the Bonneville and skipping that ten mile stretch.

U.S. 50. One of the biggest worries on the trip, was fine. The shoulder is 7-10 feet wide and vehicles didn't even come close to me, in fact, large trucks gave me a nice artificial tailwind, and a tailwind is like falling in love - always a good thing.

Which brings the story to Fowler. I was really hungry after eating cold yam/black bean/chicken burritos all day, as well as a bunch of bananas. Potassium and complex carbohydrates are your friend when pedaling. We ended up at Bushy's Blue Sky Motel, a nice little no-frills place in the center of town (all of four blocks long). Across the street is the Stockman Diner and Lounge, and they serve a mean Chili Burger which tends to stay with you, if you know what I mean ;-)

Tomorrow's destination is Lamar, where a sharp right turn occurs and southerly progress is made. Talk to ya then, and thanks for your support.

So then, this is a PS from the driver of the support vehicle a.k.a Mom....who doesn't actually seek out adventure easily without a very good reason....I must say that road trips with Todd are some of my happiest memories - Disneyland for his 13th birthday, Berchtesgaden Germany for his 21st and, as you all know this also was one of "those" birthday years - so here we are again...mom's havin' a great time watching handsome son do his thing.....more tomorrow...

TOTAL DISTANCE TRAVELLED: 76 MILES

Day 1: Wet

2005-09-28T05:44:00.000-06:00

Not in years have I seen it rain in the morning here. Not once.

Of course, with beginning a trek of this magnitude, Mother Nature decides to forget to take her meds. Fine - it'll just be a wet start.

Talk to you tonight, everyone.

Football, Friends and Food

2005-09-27T07:37:00.000-06:00

My friends at OverTime, the Bar & Grill where I moonlight as a cook, were kind enough to promote The Trip 2005 once again before I depart tomorrow morning. Even in my absence, as there is just so much to do, Monday Night Football Bingo raised additional funds to fight Parkinson's Disease. One anonymous stranger, the winner of the big pot, donated half of his booty to the cause. This kind of generosity touches me, as it has with the outpouring of goodwill for hurricane relief, but with something so close to me the chord stricken is louder...

Then, this morning I was summoned to an impromptu meeting in the conference room at job #1. Now I'm a pretty face-value guy, and I don't read too far into things, but I am well-known for disliking meetings. Much to my surprise, the 'meeting' was a gathering of folks from work wishing to send me off with a show of their smiling and supportive faces. Thank you all for what you do for my motivation! And for the complex carbs (bagels)!

Last night's shopping spree raised the eyebrow of the woman behind me in line. Six cans of black beans (no added salt), six pounds of bananas, five pounds of sweet potatoes and three ten-packs of tortillas. Bananas for the potassium (to help prevent cramping and because bananas are second only to grapefruit on the fruit scale), tortillas for a wrapper, sweet potatoes for mashing with the black beans and spreading on the tortilla, and tuna.

Rats - forgot the tuna (for protein)!

Tomorrow. 6:00 am. The adventure begins, the result being more money to fight Parkinson's Disease. Thanks again to all who have pledged thus far. If you'd like to donate, it's never too late. You can donate electronically at The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

Thanks

2005-09-25T19:07:00.000-06:00

I wish to take this moment, this post, to thank those who have supported me through the entire pre-ride process.

To my Mom, whose unwavering support and confidence has kept me strong and focused. It would not be The Trip without you.

To my sister, who has never doubted me and who motivated me to get this done. You have such strength, - more than I have.

To my children, who inspire me each and every day. I love you so much, and your unconditional love makes it impossible for me to ever give up.

To my family, for their belief in me. I've been away for so long, and through the years you have stuck with me.

To my 'family' at OverTime - so many people, I would feel terrible if I left one name out. Thank you for never doubting me and for your contributions to The Trip. You have been integral in raising money for this cause.

To Heather, my new friend who without blinking volunteered herself to help in promoting the event.

To my friends, both at and away from work - I cherish each and every friendship and will carry it with me on the road. Special thanks to those at work and to Harry for spreading the word through USA Hockey Magazine.

And to my Dad - God Bless You. For three years I have not known what to do with your passing. When this idea hit me, there was never a doubt that it would happen. I miss you, and hope this small gesture pays homage to your time on this Earth.

I promise I'll be careful.

One week

2005-09-21T07:31:00.000-06:00

One week to go. This means one week of prep and list checking. This morning's ride felt great - no injuries, no ailments, feeling strong. Nothing much else to report.

The calm before the storm.

A fortnight away

2005-09-15T11:37:00.000-06:00

Thirty-seven degrees this morning, people. Had to break out the neoprene Gators, as well as a thick base-layer to keep the cold out. Two weeks 'til liftoff, and there is no room for a car ride during the week, regardless of rain or cold weather. With the increase in miles each week, getting up in the morning is more difficult, which at least means I'm sleeping better. Time to start packing and planning.

To all of you who have pledged so far, I cannot thank you enough. Your donations will help make a difference in the effort to find a cure for Parkinson's Disease. Please tell your friends, have them read the Mission Statement to the right and encourage them to donate. I still have lots of orange wristbands (like the Livestrong bands) and a few t-shirts. If you pledge more than $100, I'll send you both. $50 gets you two wristbands! Please specify shirt size and wristband size (most women take M, most men, L).

That is all.

Just chill

2005-09-14T08:07:00.000-06:00

Coldest morning of the season so far. Even though summer still claims domain, autumn is here. No doubt about it. At 47º, the commute seems to take a bit longer. It also did not help that I encountered a slight (and rare) headwind this morning. Colorado weather is predictably unpredictable, but the hour between 5:30 and 6:30 is typically pretty calm. No rain, no snow, no wind, no hail. No nothin'.

While I wouldn't classify it as a motivation issue, with the cold weather, I'm finding myself lingering in the future instead of the present and the task at hand. The weather will often be too cold to ride this winter, and thoughts of soup cooking in the crockpot on a Saturday afternoon while watching a movie sounds infinitely comfy. Perhaps distraction is the word I'm looking for.

T-minus fifteen days.

Follow the arrows

2005-09-13T07:41:00.000-06:00

New look! Had to - the old one broke on it's own (swear!). The little arrows surrounding post titles decided to migrate to the left margin and form a straight line. What are ya gonna do?

Sorry posting has been sparse of late - I haven't been riding/writing as much as I should. There are several schools of thought when it comes to training, and this may apply to any sport. Either train your ass off up until game day, or taper off the week(s) before to give your body enough training, but also enough rest. I prefer the former as it keeps my body in tune with the stress, strain and conditions to which it will be subjected to during the ride, however I seem to be practicing the latter.

I have to say though, training breakfasts rock. Each morning before the ride to work, I prepare an OJ/blueberry/strawberry/banana/yoghurt/ice smoothie and four waffles. That is good stuff, people.

So with T-minus 17 days, there will be lots of riding, which equals lots of writing.

That is all.

Waist not want not

2005-09-07T10:03:00.000-06:00

One thing about riding a bicycle for any extended period of time - your pants fit better. Much better.

Since last summer, when the bicycle became a more significant part of my life, I weighed in at a healthy 230 lbs. It wasn't fat so much as it was just lack of maintenance. My heaviest was 240 lbs., when I left Germany and the Air Force in 1988. Lots of late nights with beer and deep-fried schnitzel, wurst and pommes-frites mit mayo.

Back in 2000 I was working day shift for a global IT conglomerate, having begged to get off of night shift for months. Be careful what you wish for - I missed graves like crazy. Not wishing to appear too fickle, I traded shifts with someone on nights and the change began to happen. I quit eating bacon, eggs, cheese and generally yummy breakfast foods. The weight melted off of me. Dinner (which was taken at 3:00 am) was always something healthy, like tuna and salsa, or salad, and before work each night, I'd lift my weights while watching Friends reruns.

I then was offered a job I never expected to have a shot at, which brought me back to days and back to an unhealthy lifestyle (by choice - I'm no cop-out). This is when all of my 36-inch pants became permanaent fixtures in my closet. My body climbed the ladder back to 230 lbs.

There was a time when I flirted with purchasing a size 40 pant. Trust me, it would've fit, but there's something about graduating from your 30's to your 40's, be it in age or waist size in inches. Denial? Perhaps. Admitting you're lazy and unmotivated? Absolutely. This is why at the age of 40, wearing your pant size is not cool. Three pairs of 36's sat in my closet, draped over hangers for three years, collecting dust. A 38 may fit better, but was still tight, and this is the size at which the cuff of the pant gets wider in circumference, making the pants look big anyway. There truly is no winning.

I'm now at 207 pounds, the lightest I've been since basic training (1984 - a scale-busting 160 lbs.), and a 35-inch waist. Doc says I'd be healthier at 190, and I told him if I ever do hit that weight, I'm bouncing back to 200 like cold water hitting a hot skillet. Fortune has smiled upon me when it blessed me with health, even after all that 'growing up' does to a body. Without my health, I would not be able to set out on this endeavor to raise money to fight the disease which affects so many people in such a brutal manner.

Eat your tuna and moderate those fatty foods, people. Ride a bike if you have one. Proudly wear those used-to-be-too-small-pants. If you're reading this, thank your maker that you've lived this long.

Wind and gas prices - they both blow

2005-08-31T09:07:00.000-06:00

Woke up this morning to just what the weather man had promised - a cold front moving in from the north. Of course a cold front in August is just wind, so big deal - unless the wind is blowing northward.

This particular front was blowing due south, which is ideal for the morning commute. After rolling west down Dublin Blvd. onto Vincent, by the kennels, I broke up the morning meeting of wild rabbits where Vincent meets Nevada Avenue. I wonder what those rabbits are doing? It's like I'm breaking up a board meeting.

One of the benefits of the bigger crankset is speed. Heck, it's the only benefit. With the wind this morning, I achieved a new personal flat-road speed record of 34.5 mph, but still managed to miss the evil stoplight at Austin Bluffs. This involves some heavy braking, which is why I will never own a bike that does not have disc brakes.

As I approach work, I ride by several service stations as Circle Drive makes its way under I-25. As of last evening the Shell station was selling regular for $2.51/gallon. This morning, regular was $2.85/gallon. There's something very criminal about a 34¢ hike in gasoline prices overnight. I don't know if it is gouging, supply/demand or just plain old greed. There are so many theories, and Economics is not a perfect science, like math is. Perhaps my friend Jim, who builds up a head of steam and has somewhat of a conspiracy theorist's slant on the modern world, could author a short dissertation on this.

I don't care how expensive gasoline gets. The only power I have is to not buy it, and I do that by riding my bike everywhere except on dates. So yeah, everywhere. Come winter time, riding in snowy, icy, 15ºF conditions is no fun whatsoever.

Let's hope the wind turns around and blows north over the next few hours, eh?

Of sight and periodicals

2005-08-30T00:47:00.000-06:00

An uneventful commute this morning. For some reason though, I could not get it going. Took me an hour to get the usual 35 minute routine accomplished. Wake up, watch weather report, make waffles (great fuel), shower, dress, stretch, liftoff.

Mornings are weird because of the dawn. Sure, it happens every day, but I can never tell whether or not I should wear the clear lenses, the amber, or just plain sunglasses, and changing lenses in mid-commute is a pain. I have several hundred dollars left on my medical flexible spending plan this year, so I'm going to get Rx lenses for the trip...

The article on The Trip 2005 came out in USA Hockey magazine (September 2005 issue), and my God - the picture makes me look like a giant. I typically exist on the other side of the camera. Hopefully the circulation of the magazine (largest of any hockey publication worldwide - including The Hockey News) will help spread the word about sponsorships for the ride.

When flat is good

2005-08-29T09:43:00.000-06:00

"Sure, it's a few more miles, but it looks flat to me."

Famous last words said while looking at a map.

Each day on the commute home I pray for a tailwind. Headwinds are most common, but on this day, seeing how I am reversing the commute, I expected a tailwind. No, no, no - Mother Nature cannot have this. Let's throw 15 mph in my face why don't we? Suuuuure, why not?

My trip to Pueblo West on Friday was not supposed to go like this. At the risk of sounding like a chronic complainer, nothing went my way on that seventy-mile jaunt. The first fifteen miles were normal enough - the commute to work each day, but with additional traffic, two fire engines in a big hurry and lots of red lights (I'm usually on this leg of my trip at 5:30 am), the going was slow.

Now, into new territory.

Highway 85/87 through Fountain leads to Old Pueblo Road on the east side of I-25. I'm guessing this is how one got from Colorado Springs to Pueblo before I-25 was introduced. Old Pueblo Road was the obvious choice as it is illegal to ride a bicycle on an interstate highway, and the west side (preferred) of the interstate had broken and disconnected frontage roads. So, headwind blowing, idiot motorists out ("Hey moron, get off the road!") and half a gallon of water, I set out.

Surely something must improve if I am to enjoy the remaining 45 miles of this trip. Old Pueblo Road forks into Hanover Road, which takes me due east to Meridian. This is where the opening quote of this post comes into play. It amazed me that riding away from the mountains I was still riding uphill. Take it in stride, dude. There's no shoulder to speak of and no traffic, so that could be construed as a good thing. Meridian Road is the one that will take ease some of the pressure. It will get me out of the headwind and into...

TWO INCHES DEEP OF GRAVEL FOR FIFTEEN MILES.

Holy geez, if there is a cycling Hell, I was in it. I had to stop three times just to utter a few curse words and gather my bearings. Once I left the gravel for pavement I thought things would get easier, but as it turns out, I was pedaling headlong into one of those famous Colorado afternoon hail/thunder storms. Neat.

Luckily, I only saw a few close flashes of lightning and a few droplets of rain (which cooled me off). The harsh reality was that the gravel took it out of me, and when I say 'it', I mean every last joule of my energy. By the time I reached my destination, my neck, shoulders and core were aching. My legs felt great, I just could not muster the energy to go another foot on two wheels.

I guess the payoff was that when I awoke Saturday morning, there were no sore muscles and I was ready to golf 18 holes. The whole intent of riding down was to plot the course for the beginning of The Trip 2005. I succeeded, but am not looking forward to the next time I must travel that way...

A familiar path

2005-08-26T10:59:00.000-06:00

Been in meetings most of the week, so after-work activities have limited my bike-time. This weekend I'll be at Desert Hawk CC in Pueblo West, a nice little community west of, well, Pueblo. I've decided to make up some miles by having my pals tote my golf bag and luggage down to the course for me while I ride the 60 miles down there this afternoon. What's cool about the whole ordeal is that, for the past few months of route planning for The Trip 2005, the most difficult past has been planning the first leg of the route from Colorado Springs to Pueblo. I-25 is not an option as it is illegal to ride on the shoulder, and there's no way I can keep a 75 mph pace for that long ;-)

The first 50 miles of today's journey will take to the proverbial fork in the road. Instead of turning right to go golfing, come September 29th I'll turn left and head out toward Kansas. This eases the burden of navigation for the trip by a healthy amount.

Attached to this post is an image of The Beefeater all sooped up and ready to go. I am considering taking both bikes on the trip, but have not yet decided on a 'starter.' It will all depend on performance over the next month.

T-shirts and cold weather

2005-08-23T06:47:00.000-06:00

Almost a week later and the weather patterns here have not changed. Chilly in the mornings and I always expect to ride home in some form of percipitation. For some reason last summer seeemd longer, and I only began riding in July...

T-minus thirty-seven days. I'm really going to need to hunker down and focus. Can't afford to not ride every day. Some say take a break every week, some say taper the week before, but my body tells me to go, go, go. I'll have part of the winter to rest.

Oh, I ordered t-shirts yesterday - they will be sporting the banner you see above on across the chest. $10 each! Get yours today!!!

Seasons change

2005-08-17T07:13:00.000-06:00

I would like to know who authorized the early arrival of autumn. There is no room for cold hands and seeing my breath in the middle of August. For the love of God, I swear someone is trying to keep me off my bike.

HA! Good luck, pal.

Hail no

2005-08-16T18:19:00.000-06:00

Right now there are not enough bad things I can say about rain. Riding home in it once in a while is fun, twice is ok, three times and the weatherman needs to STOP @&*%#&@ DRINKING! Twenty percent chance of rain, my eye.

Not a mile from work and Mother Nature throws a couple hailstones at me, so I ditch over to the nearest canopied building. [Ten minute wait] In a steady downpour, I set back out, and within 20 feet I am soaked to the bone. Hey, wet is wet.

Another two miles and you can guess what happens at the railroad crossing.

Puddle after puddle after puddle, wetter and wetter and wetter I become.

Sweat drips into my eye - hmph. Can't tell the difference any longer.

At the corner of Nevada and Austin Bluffs, I pull up to stoplight (red, of course) next to a Hummousine - at least four Hummers long. I glance over and smile, even though I cannot tell who's in there. My active imagination pretends it is Maria McKee, in town for a concert I somehow did not know about, and all she wants to do right now is offer me champagne and warmth in her big, long car. Reality tells me it a janitor at a local middle school who last week won the lottery and thinks I'm an absolute dolt for riding in the rain.

Home safe and sound. At least my pants didn't rip. I didn't bring a back-up, and we go commando in these shorts, people.

Two wheeled conversation

2005-08-16T07:19:00.000-06:00

The past two morning around here have been like October by the yacht harbor back home. Foggy, chilly (but not too) and not a lot of activity on the roads.

As I hit the five mile marker, I blew by this guy (I was screaming through a green light) and proceeded to pedal on. Of course, as always, when you're cruising along at a brisk pace, a red light will inevitably stop you, and the guy you passed will meet you at the light.

Shrug.

I don't know where the guy was going at 5:45 am, but we struck up a conversation about disc brakes, "What model year is that frame?," "It sure is no fun riding in winter here," and "Catch ya next time."

What was cool was, there I was in my Texas jersey, my Heineken bib-shorts, my coolmax socks and clipless shoes. The other guy was in jeans, a flannel shirt, a baseball cap, sneakers and both of his tires were running low on air.

Just goes to show ya, it doesn't matter where you're from or what you wear, there's always good conversation when you're on a bike :-)

The fog is getting thicker

2005-08-15T11:47:00.000-06:00

...and Leon's getting LARGER!

Great line from Airplane!, the movie.

This morning's commute is one I would hope to see some mornings while on the road for the actual Trip. Thick fog, about 55º and not a lot of traffic. After spending the weekend cleaning the herd of bikes, it was actually difficult deciding which horse to ride this morning. No flats, but since it is getting darker in the mornings (5:30 am), I get to wear the long sleeved flames jersey. Keeps me warm, dry, and visible. In looking for a picture of said jersey, I found the short-sleeved version being almost given away.

Nice.

Hope summer creeps back in here soon. I'm gonna need some heat to make the ride more enjoyable.

An Ode to Preparation

2005-08-11T07:41:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a driving day. Driving days are more and more unpleasant for me, not due to gasoline prices, but to the energy I am not using and the stamina and muscle I am not building. I can almost feel it seeping out of me, like air from a flat tire.

SPEAKING of which...

On the way to work this morning, I was setting speed records at the splits intil I heard the sound no cyclist likes to hear.

Phss, phss, phss...

I was surprised that with the volume of all the 'phss-ing' I had not yet hit rim to ground. Pulling over to inspect the tire, I was secretly hoping my mind was playing the 'Flat Fakey' game with me. The look on my face must've been something to see, for I had been stung by what looked like a very small, sharp railroad tie - one inch long, a quarter inch wide and thick.

I had no patch kit (other bike has this), no tire levers (other bike), no cell phone, and no money (other bike, other bike). It took me 20-25 minutes, a few naughty words under my breath, and some dirty, sore hands to remind myself...

Get two sets of everything and flats won't be that much of a hassle.

Except bikes. As you can see, two bikes can be hazardous. Thank God I at least had the right size tube.

On the road again

2005-08-09T08:03:00.000-06:00

Forgive me readers, for it has been over two weeks since my last post. Business took me to Philadelphia, Penn. and I was away from my bicycle (which agonized me every day I was away). After so many weeks and months of spending at least two hours of quality time with my bike, it was like having part of my body amputated.

After being away for two weeks, getting back on the road is tough. I had to drive to work yesterday morning, my first day back, as I had errands to run. In bed by 8:00 pm las evening, I just could not get out of bed this morning. I like to leave the house by 5:30 am, but this morning it was all I could do to get out of bed by that time. After much internal conflict and discussion I concluded that if I don't ride this morning, there's no telling which ploy I will use to talk myself out of riding the rest of the week.

Oddly enough, the first day back is never that bad. My legs felt like pistons, but my lungs were just pooped out. It took me a little longer to get into work this morning, but after pedaling up the hill to begin my trip this morning, the sensation returned - the same sensation that keeps me motivated to train so hard. I'll need the physical training to be on the safe side, but what continually kees me going are my kids and the memory of my father.

Wet, flat, and dirty

2005-07-26T07:37:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a day full of important work in the form of 12 hours of meetings. Meetings are usually my no. 1 nemesis, however these meetings of the minds were necessery in order to improve our website.

Scene: Twelve hours of actual hard work, and a 40% chance of thunderstorms turning into a 140% chance of steady drizzle. Followed by a flat tire a mile into my commute home. Neat. Get the gear out, insert new tube, place old tube in backpack, leave pump at site of flat, continue on.

Scene: By the water reclaimation plant. Phsssss, phsssss, phsssss - the sound of a tire slowly losing air with each revolution. Where have I heard that sound recently? Drizzle still steadily moistening my already saturated clothing, I pull over to get off of my rim as soon as possible. After removing the front tire for the second time (the implement which rendered me flat in the first place remained in the road and not in my tire), I break out a tube which is...too big.

I have three bikes - two mountain bikes, which run 26 inch tires and a road bike which runs what is called 700c, or roughly 28 inches.

As I am figuring this out, some dude comes cruising by and asks, "Need a tube?" Bummer, he's on a road bike, but he has a pump, which really doesn't help as my dire situation could not be more out of air, so to speak. Dude's name is Eric, and I've seen him before as the flame tattoos on his arms are unique - something we have in common (mine are not flames, but iron crosses and tre kronors). He knew me too, as I had been in the bike shop at which he works, which also happens to be around the corner from where I work, and not far from where I had broken down. They close at 6:00, and it was 6:20.

During all this, I had called a couple of my friends, one of which was not around to answer, the other lives very close to me, but seeing as how I was 14 miles from home, this would be a pain. Suffice it to say I have awesome friends and traded a ride for half a bag of Scott's Plus 2 Weed Killer and Fertilizer. During the whole ordeal I had called Dave three times, twice to say, "No, I've got what I need, nevermind."

This morning's ride started off well - everything inflated, new red De Marchi shorts on, and dry roads. North of Dublin Boulevard, that is. I live two blocks north of Dublin, and my first mile and a half is down Dublin, heading west (thank God for the mountains). Turning south I soon realized that I'd be the color of mud and smell the same by the time I reached work as all the roads were just wet enough for my tires to soak up the moisture and flick it directly up through my un-fendered forks at my chin. Whee. Good thing I plan ahead (aside form forgetting my secondary pump) with all hygeinical needs stored here at work.

Anyhoo, long story short (too late), we cannot have it both ways. I like the rain and have accepted that riding in the rain is not a problem, it is fun! A little more care, close attention to what is happening around oneself and the admission that wetness is inevitable, and the ride is a blast!

Just a bad day all around

2005-07-20T09:31:00.000-06:00

Yesterday afternoon will go down in the annals of [my personal] history as one of the worst. Imagine a 10 mph headwind - just enough to slow you down significantly. Next, add 95º heat (oh, but a dry heat), two bottles of warm Accelerade, and last of all but not least, a new pair of top-end cycling shoes.

I know what you're thinking - the shoes sound like a good thing, right? Right. Problem was that I was unable to clip into my pedals with these shoes. I had installed the cleats tightly and evenly, so what the heck is going on? I hadn't gone a mile before I had to unpack my old shoes and reinstall the cleats. It was hot, I was frustrated.

And the cleats were installed backward and on the wrong shoes/feet.

This results in the cleat fitting too close to the center of the shoe and further away from the ball of the foot. Halfway home I had the cold sweats as I had also forgotten my lunch and was too stubborn to borrow someone's car to feed myself. I had one cent on me, so delivery was out. Just stick it out, dude. You can do it.

I made it home, realized my error(s) in judgement, and quickly resolved them. Read the instructions for the pedals, drank a gallon of ice water, and took off to pick up my newest bike (bike #3, the Raleigh). They had left the 8-speed chain on with the 9-speed cassette on the rear hub. This resulted in much skipping while standing on the gears going up hills. The ride in this morning was flawless, and I'm now looking forward to converting my favorite bike, the Giant, to the bigger chainring.

Whee.

Regularly scheduled programming

2005-07-19T08:23:00.000-06:00

Another week begins with two great days of cycling. The first tailwind since what feels like the dawn of time as we know it chased me home yesterday. Any sub-on-hour commute home is a good day. Rode the Raleigh with the new crankset and wheels, and aside from an excessive amount of ghost shifting, that bike is damn fast. I took it into the shop last night to have it looked at, and they could not properly diagnose the shifting issues, so she stayed the night.

This left me with my muddy and neglected Giant, my baby, my favorite. She was all muddy from last Friday's ride home in the rain, so I cleaned her up last night and rode her in this morning.

Pledges are still trickling in, and I cannot thank everyone enough who has pledged. Especially those friends of mine at OverTime and my dear friend Mikaela in Oklahoma who have sold wristbands for me.

Which leads me to my final thought. My SOP is to lay down a tarp and clean the bike indoors while watching some quality television programming, but it is painfully evident that the summer rotation is duller than watching a clothes dryer. Without a see-through door.

Tre Kronor

2005-07-15T07:23:00.000-06:00

The Giant is now blue and yellow in all of it's Swedish glory. After adding the yellow Candy C pedals and replacing the white bottle cages with yellow last night, I cannot imagine anything else this baby needs except for maybe a bigger crankset. We'll cross that bridge when we ride up to it.

This morning marks the first five-day commute week for me since last season (before the snow arrived). I was so pooped after yesterday's ride home into a perpetual headwind that I showered and crashed on the bed. Just thought I'd lay down for 'a minute.' You know the kind of nap/coma I'm talking about - you wake up with pillow lines on your face, spit on your chin and your mouth tastes like you've been sucking on a roll of nickels.

Blech.

Might take a break this weekend, but not sure why. Riding a bicycle as fast as one can is never not fun.

Back on the Chain Gang

2005-07-14T07:31:00.000-06:00

The Raleigh is on the shop having her parts replaced and I get her back Friday. Been riding the Giant for the past three days and enjoying every minute of it. She rode so fine yesterday that I got home and decided to ride 12 more miles to see the OverTime softball team play at Memorial Park. The difference between the Fuji (relegated to the ceiling hooks in the garage due to shifting woes) and the Giant is the chainring/crankset. The Fuji has a 52-tooth big 'gear,' while the Giant only has a 42-tooth ring. This translates into more gears for the Fuji, enabling one to go faster, longer. The Giant runs out of gears going down a hill, and at 35 mph coasting is the only option. The mods to the Raleigh will place it in the middle - a new 48-tooth chainring, with larger second and third rings. Should be just about right...

Pedal to the plastic

2005-07-12T12:31:00.000-06:00

With all of the recent acquirements, my credit card has had quite a workout (again, Mom - just chill). I have spaced them out over several weeks so I'm not attacked by the credit monster.

Two of the three bikes need pedals, one with an old set of one particular type of clipless pedal, and one with stock platform pedals (your classic pedal). Clipless is actually a misnomer as one must wear special shoes to 'clip' into the pedal itself. Needless to say, for the trip and for commuting I need two sets of pedals.

My main bike has a pair of the best pedals I have ever ridden on, the Crank Brothers Candy C. It is the white model, as the yellow model (the one I wanted) was supposedly being discontinued and out of stock until July 22nd. Last night I found a suitable substitute at 50% off, so I ordered two pair online.

Surfing around the Performance Bike site this morning to find a picture and description of this pedal for a fellow bikeforums.net member, it turns out the yellow model is NOW IN STOCK, DAMMIT. So, not only have I paid shipping for two sets of pedals I must now pay to return, I am paying shipping on the pedals I really wanted. Bah.

Cranky

2005-07-12T11:41:00.000-06:00

The first two commutes of the week have been on the least expected horse in my corral - the road bike. Of my three bikes, this one shifts the worst, but rolls the best. As I approach Austin Bluffs Parkway each day, I get a good mile or so view of the stop light behavior. This morning was one of those Twilight Zone moments where one can either hump it to run the green light at 40 mph, or take it easy, coasting up to the red and take off as it turns green.

Nothing is more frustrating than choosing the former and losing the gamble. One ends up stopped at a red light (skidmark optional), in the highest gear possible. This makes starting off immensely slow and embarrassing, as it takes one full crank-turn to get across a three lane intersection.

Other than that, several boxes of much-needed bike components will be arriving this week. Pedals, cranks, a rack, panniers, rigid forks and bottle cages for starters.

...and thus begins the austerity program, at least until I can pay it all off. Don't worry Mom, I didn't spend THAT much...

Make room for the Beefeater

2005-07-11T07:05:00.000-06:00

There's a new horse in the corral. After shopping for a backup for the trip, I came across an unlikely candidate in a Raleigh M50 DX. I've been looking at bigger names, like Trek, Specialized and Giant, but this bike was head and shoulders above the others, component-wise. Beefeater Red, Hayes disc brakes (not top of the line, but close), heavy, durable, independent components (these days, you often see shifters and brakes combined into one unit - this is a pain if you want to replace only one of these units), and the frame geometry is different. Most non-road bicycles are measured in odd inches, 17, 19, 21. This is a 20" bike, and fits me pretty snug.

The rigid fork is on order to replace the shocks in the front, as are some road-friendly tires, and a 48/38/28-tooth crankset is in the mail to give the bike more gears as I make my way toward Dallas. The Trip is now looking even more fun, with two solid bikes and fewer worries.

Holiday bike riding

2005-07-05T10:41:00.000-06:00

Didn't get a lot done over the past four days, cycling-wise. I was halfway through my first leg of a standard commute cycle when the thunderheads rolled in over the mountains, so I turned around and got home just in time to admire the downpour from the dry comfort of my garage. Thirteen miles had to do...

One good thing is that I figured out what was making that clicking noise on the Giant. The cassette had come loose, and since she's going in for a warranty tune-up tomorrow, I'll need to spend some serious time cleaning her up tonight. Wonder what's on TV on Mondays...

Saving the best for last - the annual Fourth of July OverTime Golf Tournament was a resounding success this year. Typically the proceeds are given to charity, and this year mine was chosen. I believe somewhere in the neighborhood of $500 was raised for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. I golfed like poo, but it's all about the good time and the one shot you make that keeps you coming back...

Cycling money cycle

2005-07-01T07:29:00.000-06:00

The commute to work is becoming a much shorter event. Not boring by any means, but especially with the new road bike, it routinely takes under 40 minutes to get from A to B. Twofers is my first attempt to lengthen the experience - I mean, why not? Getting to work has never been more enjoyable. On Mondays, I ride to work twice in order to get the week's wardrobe at point B (work) so the rest of the week can be a light commute.

I had also been considering the purchase of one more mountain bike for conversion to road status - too good of a deal to pass up. The trouble was that the 22" model had been on super sale, but the bike shop was out of that size. The exact day the 22" models come in (only two available), the price goes back up $70.00! In the span of an hour (this is on the website)!! Guess it was not meant to be. I penned a polite and brief letter to customer service and let them know how I felt a little let down, so just watch them write back with superior service and let me have it for the discounted price. That always happens when you're hedging on spending a sum of money...

I instead made the money count toward a small bicycle repair manual, saving the rest of the dough for the Bible of bike maintenance.

Back in the saddle

2005-06-29T07:07:00.000-06:00

After a hitch in my giddyup yesterday, I'm back on the road. The new bike I purchased to take up the majority of the miles from here to Dallas is giving me heck. Wthout getting too specific, it begs to be said that road bikes and mountain bikes are less alike than one would surmise. After having my problems addressed, all is well now, but this mornings commute was a little...stiff, I think is the best word to describe it.

The goal was to buy a bike that could be converted into a mountain bike if need be. This road bike has clearance for larger tires (which I've already installed), two water bottles, triathalon 'cowhorn' handlebars, aero bars, a rigid fork, and most importantly, big gears and big wheels. Speed, baby. I'm certain that had my cyclocomputer (on order) been installed, I would've seen myself top 45 mph this morning. That's in a 35 mph zone, people.

Anyhoo, the handlebars and computer arrive next week, and after this morning's nervous ride into work, I'll ride old reliable until I can make the new bike into a lean, mean speed-freakin'-demon machine.

Coming next week: A name for the new bike.

Twofers

2005-06-27T08:13:00.000-06:00

Commuting to work can be a pain in the butt, not because it's not fun, but because it is difficult to get more than one day's worth of clothes to the office without being mistaken for a pack mule. Enter twofers.

Just get two of everything.

Two backpacks, two sets of sunglasses, two sets of house keys, many, many jerseys, and two round trips to work in a day. This way, I can pack two sets of clothes for work in each pack on Mondays and not have to worry about being mistaken for a bicycling Sherpa the rest of the week. It also gets me more miles, much needed miles - experience for my legs and lungs. At 14.8 miles each way, this morning's double was easily the best commute I've ever had. Off at 4:00 am sharp, all lights on and 53º. Not a breath of wind and no traffic (not one car passed me all the way to work).

Upon arriving at work I spent all of three minutes checking in, dropping off backpack no. 1, and hopping back on the horse. The ride back home was equally as enjoyable, but with a slight headwind. Bummer, but I cannot expect to ride 750-something miles and never encounter a headwind. Wichita Falls is famous for wind...

The last leg of the morning commute was a fast one - must be something about being warmed up already. That mountain bike really hauls ass, and I'm already suffering seperation anxiety as the new bike is ready for pickup this evening. Since I cannot ride both bikes at once, and the new bike is more suited for the commute and most likely the entire trip to Dallas, I'll need to ride it a lot more. Did I mention that by taking a month to make my decision on the new wheels, I saved myself upwards of $500?

Pictures coming soon.

Rain, rain, go away...or don't

2005-06-24T09:07:00.000-06:00

My timing has been terribly off this week. Tuesday was the wicked big hailstorm, Wednesday was promised to be wet and wetter, yet turned out to be perfect riding conditions (I didn't ride). Yesterday was supposed to be nice, but eventually became dark and gloomy, and the ride home was met with an attitude equivalent to that of a shrug.

I don't know why they make rain gear for cyclists, and even more peplexing is why people buy said apparel. If you're going to be out on a bike in the rain, you are going to get wet. Since a shower always follows a ride home, why not get as wet and dirty as one can? Rain shells just keep the sweat inside, and that's wet, is it not?

The kid inside comes out when it rains.

Sleep, speed and other 'S' words

2005-06-23T07:17:00.000-06:00

To continue yesterday's final thought, it did not rain. Meh (the sound you make when you shrug). Can't always time the weather right. Now, on to today's thought.

Up at 3:30 this morning - this is because I woke up last evening at 8:34 wondering how I had managed to sleep through my alarm and become late for work. Hey, why is the sun in the west? Yes, early to bed sure makes the early to rise part easier. Thought about doing 60 miles today, but held off and will stick to 35.

One thing I will be doing is upgrading my crankset. There is currently a standard 42-tooth (big ring) installed, and quite frankly, I'm out of gears. It used to be that I could not achieve a speed in excess of 35 mph, but now with the slick tires on, I'm running out of gears on the flats. Must...have...more...speed.

...and boy will I be irked

2005-06-22T09:05:00.000-06:00

...if the weather they promise today fails to live up to its full potential. I drove in order to avoid severe weather this afternoon. Just watch - a 20 mph tailwind all the way home and 85º.

Bah.

A dent in training

2005-06-22T07:43:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, for the first time ever, I was unable to complete my commuting circuit.

"Why not?", you ask.

I'd say a foot of hail and four feet of water at almost every intersection would warrant calling a friend for a ride! My lawn is eternally grateful. My cycling spirits are not. The silver lining is that I now must plan for such a contingency if I am to encounter the wrath of Mother Nature like this while out in the middle of the Texas panhandle.

What's weird is this is an AP story, yet I cannot find any significant local coverage on the web. Hmph.

The suspens(ion) is killing me!

2005-06-21T08:13:00.000-06:00

Holy smokes.

First ride in today with the rigid forks, and the difference was stunning. Each ride begins with a quarter-mile uphill climb, not too bad, but enough to get the blood pumping at 5:30 am. This morning it was almost like riding up a flat incline, which, I know, is a severe contradiction in terms. The flats and downhill portions of the ride were a bit bumpier - suspension forks really do absorb a lot of vibration, but I'll soon have this for that.

Picked up a really good pair of stiff-soled shoes (clearance) as a backup, some skewers on sale for the extra wheeelset (skewers never go on sale), and some reflective tape for the rims.

Gettin' there, people.

Wristbands redux

2005-06-17T08:47:00.000-06:00

Today I feel blessed. Last night, my friends almost bought me out of all of the wristbands I had made for the trip, donating $3 apiece, sometimes in multiples, to support the cause. One of my best friends even pledged up to $200 in tips made from her first football Sunday serving the masses of gridiron fans at the best sports bar in town. I love her.

I also have the best friends.

So, in the interest of raising more money, I have ordered several hundred more wristbands to sell (remember, all money goes to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research).

No commute today as the bike is in the shop having new forks installed. The rigid forks will help in getting me places more efficiently. The mechanic saw my rig and whistled his approval, so I'm feeling good about that.

Decisions, decisions

2005-06-16T07:13:00.000-06:00

The Steel Horse has been a little ill lately. On Saturday I hit an unusually large and sharp object (still not sure what it was), thusly tweaking my rim, puncturing my tire and taking me down to one wheelset. On Monday I ordered a pair of rigid forks to replace the suspension forks currently installed on the bike. Every last ounce of energy will count on this excursion, and suspension forks are not made for long, flat roads.

All this made me realize that I need a back up, so Monday I went out and gave a couple other bikes a test ride. My current rig weighs about 30 lbs, which is pretty heavy for a tour of this magnitude. It's a good thing I don't know the difference :-)

Well, now I do.

Ten pounds lighter, larger wheels and thinner tires make for a heckuva lot of speed, which is addicting. The problem I have is that I'm also addicted to the durability and stability of my Giant Rainier. If I were to've struck this object using thinner tires (also inflated to twice the PSI of my mountain wheels), I might be in orbit right now.

Lastly, once you go to disc brakes, you'll never want to go back to conventional bicycle braking systems. No Road bikes come with discs, and only some Cyclocross bikes have them. Looks like I may be shopping for a lighter, rigid-forked mountain bike.

Insanity

2005-06-15T13:13:00.000-06:00

When people find out I plan on riding seven and a half centuries in a row (stopping at night), they think I'm nuts. Try this on for insanity.

Everyone knows it's Windy

2005-06-10T06:53:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, I was most certainly not skipping down the streets of this city. First of all, I'm not a girl, and second of all, I'm not Carson Kressley.

Last night's two-wheeled commute home was brutal. I had essentially become a windsock in reverse. Clouds were looming, the rain was spitting, and every direction in which I turned, the wind met me squarely in the face. I'm beginning to believe this is more psychological than physical, but it took my average speed on the way home from 18 mph to 13 mph. Thankfully, today is supposed to be worse, so I'm taking the day off. Training/commuting to resume Monday, if not before.

Weather guessing

2005-06-08T12:31:00.000-06:00

This morning's commute hit me in the face with a chilly reminder that winter is never truly over at 6,200 feet altitude. The weather dude always gives the temperature at the airport, which is a couple miles east and about 12 miles south of me. 56º at the Flughafen was more like 36º up by me. Not a problem as my commute begins with a steep quarter mile uphill climb. By the time I get going, I'm warm enough...

I'm also thinking of the best ways to blog while I'm out on the road. I'll have access to a laptop each evening, but was was also eyeballing this little electronic morsel. The two year agreement is almost up with my mobile service provider, and I get $100 off of a new phone. I'm not much for being ahead of the curve in the realm of technology, but this thing looks like it might actually be easy enough to use and continue to be functional for a long period of time, instead of becoming obsolete within a year. How cool would it be to take pictures and post to the blog from Pritchett, Colo. (said township is in a very desolate, yet beautifully so, region of southeastern Colorado)?

Anaerobia

2005-06-07T10:11:00.000-06:00

I am in possession of the latest addition to my [much used, often maligned] cycling jersey collection. Now an official Komrade in the Republic of Anaerobia, we share a motto: Veni, Vidi, Vomiti. Doing something halfway makes no sense to me, although my mother would disagree based on my famous dishwashing performance of '76.

Chasing the sunset

2005-06-06T09:23:00.000-06:00

As usual, the trip to Texas was one of the great weekends of my life. Twelve hours each direction, seeing America in new and different ways and planning the bicycle trip. As always, one of the highlights is leaving Amarillo around 7:00 pm, chasing the sunset as I drive west.

Most people have an aversion to Southeastern Colorado - everyone wants to see the 'pretty' part of this square-from-the-top, tall-from-the-side state. I've got news for ya - the entire state is beautiful. If all of Colorado looked like Vail, Telluride and Aspen, you may as well just go see Finland. Trouble with Finland is no one wants to go there because it's too effing cold! Can't have it both ways, peoples.

Anyhoo, this journey was about which roads possess the broadest shoulders on which to safely ride a bicycle. I discovered a very lightly travelled road which bypasses a lot of busier highways, but more than half of it is shoulderless. One oddity thought - stupid birds. These poor winged creatures evidently had no idea what an automobile was. They would stand in the middle of the road, almost daring me to hit them I first thought. It turns out they did not know what was happening until they struck the front of my car, poor souls. That then got me to thinking, "I wonder if all roadkill goes to heaven?" If every animal which has ever died ended up in heaven, well, that place is pretty darn big.

Strangely enough, this led me to wonder if armadillos possess an inborn sense of surveying and cartography. While driving back, I noticed a number of dead armadillos, but not one after passing into the Oklahoma panhandle. These varmints must know where the borders lie and refuse to cross them. Not the prettiest creature, but certainly also not the smartest.

Possibly the coolest creature I encountered on the road was the lowly turtle. This little dude is just trying to finish his day by carefully crawling across the interstate. You see them on the approach, and of course try to miss them. They're so funny in that they seem to stop, look around, realize the imminent peril, tuck everything inside and pray.

After driving new routes both ways, the standard route appears to be the safest: Busier interstates with really wide shoulders. I'm thinkin' a jersey with DALLAS OR BUST emblazoned on the back should be enough to inform people to please be careful. It's a long way there.

Heaven

2005-06-02T07:53:00.000-06:00

No, not the Bryan Adams slow-dancer from the 80's. This morning's commute. I'm certain that when I die, go to heaven and get a job, the commute will be just like this morning. 53ºF, sunny, a little tailwind, and a brand new yellow jersey. If it weren't for that yellow light at Circle and Venetucci, I'd have made record time. Meh (that's the noise you make when you shrug). It's still the best way to get to work.

The Fog

2005-06-01T12:23:00.000-06:00

Boy, I guess I need to get used to riding in humidity again. A typical 'wet' day here in Colorado is 10% humidity. This morning's ride was like riding through the business end of an aquarium. Pleasant, but not used to breathing actual moisture like that.

Should be mid-70's for this afternoon's trip home, which is a nice change from the murky weather this past weekend. Upon my return home tonight, going to go grab some much needed bike-related stuff (at the bike shop) and some snacks (at the next door grocery) for the road trip this weekend (automobile).

Seeya here tomorrow (parentheses used here for no good reason).

Sponsor aboard

2005-05-31T13:53:00.000-06:00

Some great news - the bicycle shop through which most of my cycling dollar passes, has agreed to sponsor me in equipment for the ride. Mr. Bo Peele at Performance Bicycle was instrumental in acquiring some basic necessities for my journey. I want to express a heartfelt thanks to an organization who, in a year of my patronage, has never steered me wrong. If there is a Performance Bicycle Shop in your neck of the woods, check them out - it's worth your time.

Lazy weekend

2005-05-31T07:41:00.000-06:00

Woke up this morning to awful news about a cyclist in Boulder, Colo. who was killed by a sleeping motorist. This just reminds me that no matter how aware I am, I cannot be responsible for everyone sharing the road.

Didn't get out on the bike at all this weekend, as we had lots of nasty weather. The weather outlook is good for the next two days, and I will ride regardless of weather. Friday morning I leave for my final 'automobile' trip to Dallas before the ride. I'm going to attempt to cover the exact route the bicycle trip will follow, which is always fun - to see new parts of the World.

A foggy day

2005-05-26T08:41:00.000-06:00

This morning's commute reminded me of November in Santa Cruz, on the Monterey Bay. Chilly, cloudy, a little foggy, and more humidity than normal. The promise of a warm afternoon gets me out the door. No traffic, headwind, and safely to work. Nothing can ruin a day where I get up, draw a breath and ride my bike. I consider myself fortunate.

$100, the hard way

2005-05-25T10:47:00.000-06:00

So every once in a while my Inbox is graced with enough temptation to make me spend my lunch hour debating on whether or not to spend $100.00 I may or may not have. Truth be told, it is usually $100.00 I have, but could put to better use elsewhere in my budget.

I'm talking of course about bicycle-related sales.

Twenty percent off of already marked down items is enough to make me wonder if they invent stuff for bikes just to part me with my hard-earned money! I don't believe in this conspiracy, because everything I've ever purchased for my bike riding addiction, I've used. There was a time several years ago where I rode the same bike with the same tires, same brakes, same adjustments and never did anything but put air in the tires. Those days are over as I now realize that 150 miles a week means that a bicycle is not a toy.

Guess where I'm spending lunch? That's right, at Target, because no one ever walks in there for a greeting card and walks out having spent $100.00.

I scoff at your inferior driving skills

2005-05-24T07:11:00.000-06:00

Without going into too much detail and with far less cursing than I'd like to use, this morning's commute to work was a roller coaster ride through the Hall of Fame of bad drivers. This is not just because I was on a bicycle; if I were in a car, there would have been a full house of scowling and frowning. Suffice it to say that I survive a commute to work each day only because I pay close attention. You really have to put some effort into it if you want to get me off the road.

Rotten scoundrels. Learn how to drive.

And that's all I have to say about that.

Golf clap

2005-05-23T09:31:00.000-06:00

No bike riding this weekend as it was time to participate in a semi-annual golf tournament. The B.J. Greater Loader Open (Hollydot GC, Colorado City, Colo.) is a tournament which has been played twice a year for 22 years now (I'm only in my fourth) and involves a LOT of debauchery. It is the tournament which, a year ago, brought me to terms with my own mortality. The excess was enough to make me quit drinking and smoking, and is what got me back on the bicycle, so in a roundabout way, the partying is directly responsible for this trip I'm about to embark upon.

For some odd reason I can ride a bicycle until the end of time, but two days of golfing just sucks the energy out of me and leaves my body sore and my ego bruised. At least I fixed my slice - all that remains now id my fairway woods, my short game to some extent and my putting game. Aside from that, I'm a decent golfer :-D

More on the golf over at The Ronkainen Project.

Stuff is here

2005-05-17T13:23:00.000-06:00

The official logo of The Trip 2005 has been revealed (to your left). This logo shall adorn the front of t-shirts and cycling jerseys during The Trip itself. Pledges of $100 or more, whether in a lump sum or by the mile (see the MISSION STATEMENT for more information), will receive a white t-shirt and orange wristband (sample here - WHEELDEAL 2005 debossed) to show their contribution to helping eradicate Parkinson's Disease. At the moment, t-shirts are in production and wristbands are only being sold locally. If you'd really like a wristband, e-mail me and we can coordinate from there.

Meteorology 101

2005-05-17T07:41:00.000-06:00

Staggering into the kitchen, I wonder if I'm still dreaming. My television goes on automatically at 4:55 am so I can save my energy hitting the power button on the clicker once I'm awake.

"Currently at the airport we have 64º, and on the north end of town it's a chilly 58º."

I pause, turn the teapot on and wander into the living room, intrigued. The television screen corroborated what ol' Marty was saying. My eyes lit up, and any lingering sign of sleep dissipated immediately.

This would be the first morning in almost six months where I didn't have to wear my winter cycling gear. I had cleaned Elke the previous evening as last week's wet weather had made for a messy ride, and was looking very forward to this morning's jaunt. The ride did not disappoint, even though I hit an inordinate number of red lights (there was no traffic) and was greeted by a headwind most of the way. I only wish I lived further away from work!

Mapping it all out

2005-05-16T18:53:00.000-06:00

In planning for The Trip 2005, I have encountered many helpful people every step of the way. In today's mail, I received my Texas Travel Kit, including a very decent road map, which brings my compliment of road maps up to five. I'm not worried about getting lost :-)

Although the temperature today was 75º and partly cloudy, I opted to drive to work. Golfing Sunday morning really took it out of me as I have not used those muscles in a year. Planning on riding 120 miles the rest of the week. Expecting the wristbands tomorrow - as soon as those become available, I will make it prominent on this site. Remember, pledges of $100 or more receive a t-shirt and wristband, or wristbands can be purchased for $3.00/each.

Cleaned the bike up tonight so I could photograph her in all her glory for postage on the BikeForums.net website. Looking forward to four days of hardcore riding this week.

A great experience

2005-05-13T14:17:00.000-06:00

Day off from riding today. Will resume tomorrow.

It has been said that if one has a good experience, one will tell one other about it. If the experience is bad, it will grow twenty-seven-fold. Here is the (brief) tale of my good experience.

The company to which most of my bicycle-related spending is funnelled toward could be known as a conglomerate. They own several other bicycling equipment/supply companies, and they are in many states across the nation. Sort of like the Wal-Mart of bicycles, you would think.

Ever since resuming my hardcore love affair with cycling, all of the sudden I cannot wait for the next catalogue to arrive in the mail. When it does, I read through every page to see if what I need (and often what I want) is on sale. One would expect a company with an economy of scale this vital would lead to the classic American business model: Sell stuff cheap, offer substandard support and customer service.

Quite the opposite.

Every experience I've had online, over the phone, at the retail store - all 1,000% positive. Performance Bicycle even responded favorably in a timely fashion to my request for sponsorship on The Trip 2005.

I purchased a helmet from the catalogue the other day, and since I'm a Team Performance member ($20.00/yr), I get 2nd day delivery. They had my order out the door half an hour after I placed it (I had called back to add something to the order, but it was too late). After test-riding it yesterday, I determined it was not a good fit. They asked me to send it back to them, along with a very clear and detailed form which is provided on the back of the invoice, and they would replace it with another model (free of shipping) or refund my money. On the same order, I had requested two pairs of disc brake replacement pads and they sent me only one. They are shipping the second pair free, even though the invoice showed the correct number of items shipped.

Wow. Customer Service is alive and well in America.

Three is a magic number

2005-05-12T10:17:00.000-06:00

Cold this morning, but bearable. Gators and leg warmers make the ride much easier to bear. This is the first three-in-a-row week of the season, and feeling great. Feels good not to be putting gas into my cars. Left my Accelerade at home in the fridge. This is a bummer because leaving my house at 6:00 am on a quarter-mile steep incline does not make me want to cruise back down the same incline only go right back up. I need some long-sleeved jerseys (and a better memory)...

Pledges and Sponsors

2005-05-11T14:19:00.000-06:00

As of yesterday, I have my first personal pledger, and a corporate sponsor. More will be published about the corporate sponsor as soon as it is clear what will be offered. I want to give them as much good press as possible!

Training is coming along nicely, and I've decided the only two things that can stop me from training are sub-freezing temperatures and hail.

That is all.

Fundraising bracelets ordered

2005-04-29T13:17:00.000-06:00

In about three weeks, I will have rubber bracelets to sell in order to raise funds for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. 260 Large, 40 medium.

The Trip Mission Statement

2005-01-07T13:00:00.000-07:00

A vehicular swap meet? No. The name of a Seussian cleaning machine? Nope. A cross country bicycle ride for charity?

Yes.

I have exhausted many ideas in naming this event, finally ending up on Wheel Deal 2005. I don't like it so much right now, but have already ordered 300 rubber wristbands to sell in order to support the cause.

How about a little detail, no?

THE HISTORY

What could be more fun than riding a bike? How about riding a bike 750 miles in ten days or less? In late September/early October 2005, I will be riding my bicycle from Colorado Springs, Colo. to Dallas, Texas in an effort to raise money for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

For seventeen years, my father, Robert Allan Watts, lived with Parkinson's disease. It was a challenge he did not ask for; one he faced with great courage. I will always remember him as a father, as a fast-pitch softball pitcher, as a recreational bicycle rider, and as a man with the strongest faith I have ever seen.

Not once over the years did I hear him complain about his affliction or how it affected him. He was always happy and constantly finding ways to take the situation and turn it around for the benefit of others. His strength and determination were unmatched by anyone I had ever met, and his humility was unequalled. I am proud to be his son.

Robert Allan Watts passed away on February 19, 2002 of complications stemming from Parkinson's disease and Myotonic Dystrophy. He was 65.

For three years I have not known what to do with the passing of my father. I'm not sure losing a parent is something one can ever be prepared for, so since the time of his passing, a void has existed in my life. I have not known how to fill that void, if it is even fillable.

THE EPIPHANY

A year ago I was made to face the results of some excesses in my lifestyle. Suffice it to say the diagnosis of high blood pressure coupled with a lengthy panic attack woke me right up. The problem was most certainly my body chemistry, but I choose not to be treated with pills. I knew what the problem was - it was lifestyle-related. Todd likes his beer, his smokes and his ribaldry.

I purchased a bicycle (I had always been a keen cyclist), quit drinking, smoking, caffeine and dairy (I have since moderated all of these - it was a long winter) and began anew. The change in my emotional and physical health has been mind-boggling, and inspired me to take my newfound confidence and ability to the next level.

My children live in Texas and I thought what better adventure than to ride my bike from my door to theirs. I drive to visit them often, so I know the terrain like the back of my hand and have always been very comfortable with extreme physical exertion. My next thought was to incorporate a charitable event into the ride. I recently asked my father's family to donate money to a charitable cause instead of sending me Christmas gifts. They chose The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

THE TRIP 2005

The tour is 750 miles from door to door, and I will be riding alone with the aid of my Mom, who will be my shadow, meeting me each evening after a full-day's ride. My goal is to raise as much money as I can for The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. 100% of all pledges will go to the foundation, and the operating cost of the trip will be covered by me alone as my donation.

Please pledge what you can, be it in a lump sum or by the mile. Some examples of pledges by the mile are:

750 miles x $.05/mile = $ 37.50
750 miles x $.10/mile = $ 75.00
750 miles x $.15/mile = $112.50
750 miles x $.20/mile = $150.00
750 miles x $.25/mile = $187.50
...and so on.

All pledges are 100% tax-deductible and should be by check or money order made out directly to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. No cash, please. Upon receipt of the donation, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research will mail you a tax letter for tax purposes.

To lend your support to this worthwhile cause please provide the following information in an e-mail to thetrip05@gmail.com:

Name:
Address:
City:
State:
ZIP:
Phone:
E-mail:
Amount of pledge:
Lump sum ________
Per Mile ________

All information is strictly confidential and will not be shared (in any form) with any other parties except for the Michael J. Fox Foundation. During the ride I will post my daily progress on this blog, dedicated to The Trip '05. When my ride is complete I will contact all pledgers to share the results. At that time you can mail your check or money order - made out to The Michael J. Fox Foundation - directly to my P.O. Box (to be determined) and I will forward 100% of the donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. Pledges are being handled in this manner to ensure that all money donated goes to the intended recipient.

If you have any questions about the trip itself, please feel free to e-mail me or if questions about The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, you can e-mail Amanda McDorman or call her at 212-509-0995 x204.

The Rig (or what is taking me to Dallas)

2005-01-01T18:49:00.000-07:00

THE RIG

Some have wondered why anyone in their right mind who is riding on relatively flat roads would choose to ride a mountain bike instead of a road/racing bike.

Several reasons.

Road bikes and their thin tires acquire holes, which means flats. I loathe flat tires.
Road bikes do not have disc brakes, which I now swear by for stopping in poor weather conditions.
Road bikes typically have drop-bars, like the Tour De France bikes (those are top of the line road bikes), which I am not comfortable riding with.
They do not make knobby enough tires for road bikes.

So, what I have done is taken the best of both worlds and combined them. What I have now is called Frankenbike.

Replaced suspension forks with Surly 1x1 rigid forks. This ensures that energy from leg to pedal to road is maximized.
Installed 2.0" knobby tires with a center bead to maximize road contact and minimize vibration (which is nil). Between the tire and the tube is a layer of puncture-resistant tape, made by Slime.
She is a 2003 Giant Rainier which came with the best mechanical disc brakes available at the time (and still pretty cool), made by Avid. Discs are good for stopping in rain and mud.
Swapped out the stock 170 mm cranks and 42-32-22 chainrings for beefier 48-38-28 (measuerd in teeth), 175 mm cranks. More gears. Faster. Funner :-)
Replaced the standard mountain bar, which has a dip in the middle, rising at the ends, with an integrated straight bar/bar end setup. I then wrapped the bar twice with foam tape as long rides tend to make hands tired.
To the new handlebar, an aero bar was added. These are the bars that protrude forward, providing an extra position for the hands or to maximize aerodynamic...ness in speed situations. Like triatheletes use.
Finish it off with reflective tape (by Identi-Tape) every three inches around the rims, and this beast can go anywhere.

Sure, she weighs in at 30+ pounds compared to a decent road bike at 16-18 pounds, but the stability and go-anywheredness are preferred to the speed of a road bike.

And that's all she wrote.