mywifeinc

Wow...

2010-05-26T21:12:00.001-05:00

Can't even get a link correct - my wife inc team website.

Ummm...

2010-05-19T20:37:00.002-05:00

Hello, one current reader.

new link for the team website with some actual content - www.mwicross.com

Okay I suck...

2009-07-31T22:42:00.002-05:00

All's quite on the blogging front. I've been training my but off for cross season, the shop has been busy, and I have been brainstorming ideas for this -----

www.mywifeinc.com

It is still in it's baby stages but swing on over and take a looky and tell me what you think.

only 50 more days until Jackson Park...

Amazing...

2009-05-29T19:07:00.000-05:00

See more funny videos and TBT Videos at Today's Big Thing.

Sunburns, dirt, dogs, and sprints...

2009-04-20T20:32:00.004-05:00

This is how I spent last week. LeBam was out of school so the fam headed south back to KC for the week. We hung out with some old friends and I got to ride all the places I miss so much. I got sunburned on the first day down there - I forgot what it's like to not where arm and knee warmers. It was the best vacation that I've had in some time, and the first non "race vacation" the family has had in some time.

This is one of my favorite signs, it still makes me laugh every time. It is the reason I first wanted a small digi cam to take on rides with me. You just never know what weird stuff you are going to find out in the country.

Crusty first introduced me to gravel road rides. I think roads like this are what I miss riding the most since moving to cheeseland. There is nothing quite like making the turn onto a nice gravel road, dropping down a gear, and just floating through the soft stuff - it brings a smile to my face just thinking about it.

They have had a bunch of rain in KC so most of the gravel was packed down quite a bit, but there were still plenty of spots where loose gravel was lingering. I can remember a few times turning onto one of these long gravel sections right after they laid down fresh gravel - nothing makes you pucker up quite like hitting loose gravel at speed.

The trail gnomes down in KC do an AMAZING job of building and maintain trail in the area. There is all kinds of XC trails from smooth and flowing to rocky and technical. One of my favorites is Rim Job at Landahl Park. It will make you sharp and keep you honest about how good of a technical rider you are, let's just say I was a little rusty in the handling department.

Rocks.

More Rocks.

Lots of exposed limestone on Rim Job. I didn't take as many pictures as I should have to do the trail justice, but I was to busy having fun. There are quite a few of these exposed outcroppings that you ride up, over, around, and through on the trail - it's a blast. Although there was a time when it was my least favorite trial in KC, funny how some experience and saddle time can charge your opinion of a trail, it used to kick my ass all over the place almost as much walking as riding. There is so much to ride, but time and weather constraints kept me to just one day and a few trails. I need to take a MTB only trip for a week, I could ride somewhere different every day and never leave the metro area!

I don't think he's trying hard enough...

Crusty and I hit up some Roller races on Friday night, it was tons of fun. $5 to race and more swag than I have seen at a race in a long time. I came away with a set of Surly hubs and a Jethro Tule not bad for First Place, I would have just taken the satisfaction of beating Crusty - the hubs are just a bonus.

The final showdown. This was our first race of the year against each other - not a good way to start off the year Crusty. Is his defense, he had some beers (I couldn't drink anything after the first race I thought for sure I was going to puke from the effort) and had to race one more heat than me (that's what he gets for not posting the fastest heat time), but a W is a W and I will take any I can get.

Got to ride with Crusty and G-Love on the most assbackwards route I think I have ever been on - thanks G-Love.

I also got chased by 6 dogs during the week, one of which was a wiener dog. I have never been chased by a wiener dog before, I was amazed at how long he chased me. After I realized what it was that was chasing me I slowed down a bit and he just kept coming. Most dogs will give up once they realize they aren't going to catch you, but this little guy just kept coming. I only had one close call, but it was enough to remind me how much I hate being chased by dogs when riding solo. I don't mind the dogs when I'm riding with others because there is always someone slower or less attentive than myself.

Lots of riding, dinner with old friends, and some R&R just what the family needed.

Now that I am back, I am going to make a serious effort to vary my routes this year, it's getting boring. I have pretty much ridden a variation of the same few road routes since moving to Wisco three years ago - it's time for some variety!

Bike spotting...

2009-03-27T07:22:00.005-05:00

Looks like a Sponsored rider got his hands on a yet to be announced Carbon 29er Hardtail from "S". He says it currently weighs in just over 20 lbs.I was hoping the "S" would use their own FS forks on their new 29ers, but this one has a Reba, does kind of look like the bottom of the head tube is flared out? Maybe RockShox is coming ouut with a tapered steerer tube fork... Or maybe it is just shimmed down, or it could just be me wanting it to have a tapered 1 1/8 to 1 1/2 inch headtube. At any rate it appears The big Red S is bringing Carbon to their bigwheels for 2010.

looking forward to a test ride...

edit: origianl posters blog has been changed and any mention of this bike has been removed....

Product News...

2009-03-23T21:00:00.003-05:00

So I have been wishing for some wider tubular rims for cross. Not only did I find out there is something available now but there are options...

Wisconsin locals - Sun Ringle have a new aluminum tubular rim out called the Vista Cruiser, I am guessing a nod to That 70's Show. It is a 32 Hole Black 21.2mm wide 14mm deep 385g tubular rim and retails for $45.

Another northern Midwest company has their C2 rim profile now available in a carbon tubular - HED Stinger 6 23mm wide 60mm deep carbon tubular wheel set. Retail $1500

From HED -
"The C2 tire well secures the tire in a wider and slightly deeper “cradle”. With increased support of the tire carcass, sidewall flexion is reduced, and less flexion vastly increases cornering stability and general handling. It also improves tire efficiency. One hard corner at speed will show you just how much the C2 well decreases tire wash under heavy loading."

Sure they are talking about typical road tubular widths, but the same should apply for cross tires as well. I am intrigued by the idea of a larger gluing surface for tubular cross tires. The idea makes sense especially with the increased casing size of a 32mm cross tire. A wider rim is going to better support the wider tire and allow for better handling, a larger contact patch, and better rolling. Just look at the evolution of 29"er MTB rims guys were using 19mm wide road rims in the beginning, but now the standard has been pushed into the mid 20mm and even into the 30mm wide range all to support the larger casing size and give better handling.

I think I may have to have one of each this year. I love trying out new technology and every season it is something different. Wider rims may be just the ticket this year.

The Good, Bad, and Ugly...

2009-03-16T09:13:00.008-05:00

Got out for a sweet sunny Saturday sunshine ride. New route, new kit, and good times.

MWI team member and good friend Paul "Chili" Warloski was involved in a bike meets truck accident on Saturday afternoon. Resulting in some new Titanium hardware in his left Femur.

I started this post a few days ago and just wasn't feeling in the groove yet this year, I was thinking about getting some structure from coach Crusty. I haven't been motivated and haven't been sticking to any sort of routine. I am over the winter weather!

Today I went out for a solo ride for a couple of hours and now I feel like the batteries are finally recharging. I can feel the internal wheels starting to move. I am looking towards the fall and getting excited. It is coming....

Heading out..

Coming Back.

One for Chili.

Stopped by and saw Chili today at the hospital, he is doing well and his spirits are up, and already talking about traveling to Kentucky, Ohio, and Iowa for cross races. He has some serious rehab in his future, but Paul is one seriously motivated guy so I am sure he will be ahead of the curve and back on a bike sooner than expected.

enjoy every ride, you just never know...

Watch the equipment...

2009-03-10T21:31:00.006-05:00

Spending a week at Specialized was great...

Riding some sweet bikes was nice, the BG Fit class was amazing, but the best thing I saw...

A live penile blood flow saddle demonstration. Yep Dr. Roger Minkow hooked a sensor up to one of the male instructors "equipment" to measure blood flow and had him ride a few different saddles while a monitor showed the real time blood flow loss. I have never been overly picky about saddles and have always told customers if it doesn't hurt go with it when it came to picking the best one. Those days are OVER. After watching the blood flow drop to almost zero in less than a minute while he was riding a very popular saddle without feeling any signs of discomfort or numbness I am fully on board with the Specialized BG Saddle program! They had data from all of the major saddle brands and majority of them had similarly astonishingly poor results. The Specialized Toupe is the best tested saddle, but it still restricts up to 20% of blood flow. The kicker is guys can not tell that blood flow is being restricted and are totally unaware. It's one thing to have someone tell you about the study, it is entirely different to watch the number plummet while the rider is telling you that he actually finds the saddle to be quite comfortable! I am all about keeping the blood flowing.

Looks like the weather may finally break here in cheeseland...

...keeping my fingers crossed.

The Rider...

2009-03-10T21:13:00.002-05:00

"...after the finish all the suffering turns to memories of pleasure, and the greater the suffering, the greater the pleasure. That is Nature's paypack to riders for the homage they pay her by suffering. Velvet pillows, safari parks, sunglasses: people have become wolly mice. ...Instead of expressing their gratitude for the rain by getting wet, people wak around with unbrellas. Nature is an old lady with few suitors these days, and those who wish to make use of her charms she rewords passionately."

Buy the book it is AWESOME: Time Krabbe "The Rider"
If you have it read it again!

it's all about the ride...

Loud and Proud...

2009-03-08T18:01:00.004-05:00

2009 My Wife Inc kits are here. They are loud - "deliciously hideous" I believe is my favorite term. I am not sure why I look so pissed in the pictures, I am actually quite happy with how they turned out. However It never fails that there is always something you would do different after they show up, but they turned out how I had planned.

notice the room on the left side for a number...

The sponsor put the nix on the "Cavendish Pose" picture.

I have some extra arm and knee warmers left if anyone is interested. Otherwise the next kit order will be later this summer, unless demand for it comes gushing in sooner.

Can't wait to start getting some miles in the new kit.

Remembered...

2009-03-05T22:16:00.004-06:00

I forgot I brought the camera...

Rollin' out. Wanna guess the retail value of our ride?

Over the shoulder "Boulder Holder" - John works at the Cross mecca of the Front Range

Helmet Cam?

Top of the climb.

You know the guy who fit the Saxo guys - you know the one -that's him. Scott Holz

Not a bad ride eh?

My brain is reaching capacity, I am learning new skills, riding some RAD bikes, having a peachy time, and enjoying the ride.

Too many words...

2009-03-04T22:52:00.003-06:00

Too many words here lately...leBam made this last week in Illustrator. She was playing around not trying to make anything specific just experimenting with shapes and color (she's six afterall) I was amazed by her creativity in naming her artwork "Little Fairy and the Light of Hope"

you've got to love children's minds...

Okay...

2009-03-04T22:04:00.003-06:00

I was cranky! I am big enough to admit it. Travel and lack of sleep will tend to do that. But a couple of days riding and it's all rainbows and unicorns.

We finished up the product training portion of the week here is California, and yes Specialized makes some awesome product nothing earth shattering there, but.. I am amazed every time I have the opportunity to hear about what goes into every product they make - these guys do their homework and don't mess around! There is a ton of technology and solid research that goes into what they bring to market. Specialized does not simply follow trends and make "me too" product these guys oooze passion and it shows, not just the "PRO" culture that is everywhere these days but passion for all things bicycle - kids bikes, commuters, and just plain ole' bike ridin' - do I like everything they make - nope but I have mad respect for them.

The fit portion of the class started today - lots of information to absorb! I need some test bodies when I get back in town, any volunteers? I really like the way that Specialized approaches the fit process, it's is very similar to how Barnett teaches mechanics, it's very procedural oriented. One step leads into the next in a very logical and efficient manner, this not only makes it easier for the fitter to be consistent in technique it also give the customer a very professional experience that is detailed and thorough.

Rode outside today, it was nice.

Random - Disc brakes on cross bikes? It's the off season and the debate has popped again. It appears the UCI is rewriting the rules that apply to this issue. No thanks I like my cross bikes just the way they are. There is no reason why a rule can not exist solely to protect the heritage of a sport. When you begin to allow a cross bikes to morph into skinny wheeled 29ers then you begin to erode the very essence of what make cross racing so special. Disc brakes would change the course design even more than the current UCI trends - into to something more of a MTB short track. Part of the mystic of Cross is the technique involved - the ability to corner, dismount, and maintain your momentum, it's also the equipment it makes the bike different and by different I mean special.

Ahhh bikes so many ones to love.

enjoy the ride...

California is dreaming....

2009-03-02T14:35:00.003-06:00

So I am out in California for a week of "Bike Nerd School" as my wife calls it - Specialized Bicycle Company University is what they call it, for some product brainwashing, I mean training and Body Geometry Fit School. I am most excited about the BG Fit school portion of the week which starts on Wednesday. But first - What is the deal with everyone being afraid of the rain?! It rained today not hard, just steady - what we in the Midwest would call a drizzle - sure it was windy, but come on let's ride! Nope no ride today. I feel the best part of the SBCU experience is getting to test ride all the latest bikes so that you can use your personal testimony of the bikes to sell them upon retuning. I mean ultimately that is why our bosses pay for us to go and Specialized offers these classes is for us to be better educated on their product and have the proper tools inform our customers.

I think I am just grumpy about sitting in a classroom all day listening to everyone try to one up each other, it was kind of like the group ride where everyone half wheels each other trying to force the tempo, it got real old real fast.

Tomorrow brings another day - hopefully it will be drier so I can enjoy some riding!

Under the weather...

2009-02-26T10:41:00.004-06:00

I have been sick all week - boooo. At least the weather has been crappy so I don't feel bad for not trying to get out and ride. In place of riding I have been spending my time on some design projects that have been lingering - look for new MWI shirts coming soon. Speaking of new shirts, these guys have one out in my favorite color, check it out.

In sneaker news Onitsuka is celebrating their 60th year in style...

Already have my first pair of Zodiac inspired kicks...

I really hop this bug is gone by the time I leave for California on Sunday!

Ho Hum...

2009-02-17T09:48:00.003-06:00

I have been laying low. We got a nice weather spike last weekend - it's gone and so is my motivation to ride indoors. I was so desperate for a ride outside last week I went out for 1 1/2 hours in the pouring rain , but at least it wasn't snowing.

I even shaved the lazy "winter beard" in hopes that it would spark some springitme love. It hasn't brought the weather, but I mustered up 4 1/2 Max Power Ramp intervals this morning on the Computrainer. I think it's time to call the coach and get some structure!

I need to find a way to pul off the extended pre-season training camp somewhere warm, too bad leBam's spring break isn't until Spring...

50 Mile Kind of Day...

2009-02-08T09:25:00.002-06:00

Fenders were not optional yesterday! All the snow was melting and the streets were rivers.

Chili wanted to stop for some food.

Yesterday was a warm one for a Wisconsin Feb - 50 degrees - but windy as hell. Arm and Leg warmers required. I have been waiting for a day such as this to kick start my motivation for the year. I know that it will get cold again and the temps will drop, but it is a start and the warm sunny days are just around the corner.

Is it bad that it is only February and most of the conversation revolved around next cross season?

Postcard...

2009-02-03T19:31:00.002-06:00

Our newest MWI cross racer brought back this postcard from his skiing trip out west.

News feed...

2009-02-03T19:26:00.001-06:00

So I stumbled upon this. Funny it is basically a feed of all the sites I read anyway but in one convenient spot.

Stupid Groundhog....

2009-02-02T07:06:00.001-06:00

Six more weeks of winter = blah!!

So the CX World Championship = blah! Kind of Grass Crit-ish. I am not a fan of the UCI mvoement towards faster courses. I like a course where the best BIKE rider whens not the rider with the biggest engine on any given day wins. TA great cross course should reward those with superier bike handling/line selection and punsih those without.

Congratulations to Brian Matter JPow, and Matt Shriver for an awesome season and performance at Worlds! Too bad JP had so much drama again this year, hopefully his sponsrs will stand by him and he can come back next year stronger and motivated. Too bad Trebon got taken ot by some camera equiptment - pretty crappy - he seems to have some bad Karma at big races (KC 2007)

Overall I feel that the US team represented well! The women killed it, the juniors, and U23 held their own to some very respectable results. Can't wait to see what next season brings!

Despite the Groundhogs predictions I still managed to ride outside this morning. I'll take 6 more weeks of winter if the temps stay up in the double digits.

Required reading...

2009-01-30T08:53:00.002-06:00

For all you group riding and racing roadies - Here.

Food for thought going into Spring. My favorite one is this:

'When you see a hole in the road, it is absolutely NOT acceptable to yell “HOLE” at the top of your voice, then weave around it at the last minute. It is also unacceptable to yell “SLOWING” when you slow down. If you can’t see the riders in front of you are slowing down, then maybe you should stick to monopoly on a Sunday afternoon."

I have noticed in every Crit that I have done here in Wisconsin some bonehead is constantly yelling about slowing down! It drives me crazy. I learned the fine art of subtle hand signals from the King himself Crusty. No words just a quick wave of the hand, perfect. I am sure he will have a post of his own on the subject, here.

Maybe that's why I haven't done much group riding since moving up here - it's all the noise. Even the first Cross Country MTB race I did there were guys yelling "Slowing" going into every swithcback - Holy Crap! Really do you need to announce that!

I'll jsut keep riding solo, until I find somone with a scooter...

Last Week...

2009-01-25T21:19:00.003-06:00

Rode outside.

Was forced back inside.

Got some new sneakers.

Not a bad week. I also ate here twice on Saturday while sneaker shopping. Yes I have a horrible diet I know, but at least I still beat this guy last year in spite of all his good eating habits. Brian Matter is getting ready to kill it on a Blue CXC at Cross Worlds next weekend. You too could be the proud owner of a Blue CXC in the exclusive My Wife Inc livery. LeBam was obsessed with being on YouTube on Saturday and was making music videos all day so she could be famous. She wanted me to give her fashion advice so she could look professional. I told her she shouldn't worry about looking a certain way and to rock her own style. Her response "That's excellent advice Dad. Thanks!" Are all six year old girls like that?

Is it Spring yet?

Rumor Mill...

2009-01-23T07:19:00.005-06:00

So I was planning on selling my mountain bike, as I do just about every year, but I might just hold off a year and wait for the bike I have been dreaming of since my first 29er! Looks like I may have to put some endurance MTB races back on my calendar for 2010.

Let's just say 2010 with be an Epic year!

Oh and there is a chance Blue Competition Cycles will have someone on their CXC at Worlds even if JP isn't racing.

Today's show is brought to you by the letter "D"...

2009-01-21T13:34:00.004-06:00

Dermatone.

Dumb, Dumb.

Finally got my sorry butt outside for only the second time this year. Way to much trainer time for me already. With the windchill in the single digits it meant breaking out the Dermatone. A hold over from my Mountain Man days this stuff rocks for keeping your face comfy. It acts as a wind barrier when applied to your exposed skin and lips. Its from Sweden so it has to be good right. Anyway it's the real deal, you should pick some up, your LBS can order it from QBP so no excuses!

So I thought I would come home via part of the Oak Leaf trail and avoid some potholes, Dumb idea. The winter walkers hadn't packed it down quite enough yet to make it "easy" going, really they have just chewed it up so that it is unrideable. So I forged fresh tracks, which was a blast until you hit a buried hole, log or frozen squirrel and came to an immediate stop every 50 feet or so. Luckily I wasn't on it too long. It was really nice to be outside, off the trainer enjoying the crisp winter air.
Now if the snow will jsut stay away so the streets stay clear maybe I can make it out for #3 this year.

Enjoy it when you can get it...

Anticipation...

2009-01-19T20:49:00.004-06:00

I have a somewhat unhealthy obsession with sneakers. If only bike parts didn't cost so much I would have to build a sneaker room to store them. Currently I am not so patiently awaiting the Spring release from my favorite sneaker company - Onitsuka Tiger.

I really need the weather to break so I can go outside and ride.

Awesomeness...

2009-01-16T16:54:00.003-06:00

Punk buttons courtesy of Chad's wife. Super sweet - THANKS!

We have brought another one into our fold - Paul "Chili" Warloski will be flying the Jackalope in 2009.

Last chance to order kit for Spring, the final order is being submitted next week.

Now if I could just get some double digit temperatures so I can venture outside.

Best account of the Euro experience...

2009-01-13T19:51:00.003-06:00

Will Dugan of Team Richard Sachs gives an amazing account of his adventures at Euro Cross Camp and beyond.

"HOLY MOLY those guys are so fast. They know how to just attack attack attack. They'll attack just to blow up. It's crazy. But they'll also wait. They don't do that long tt effort. They just snap and bridge."

"The biggest contest is against your own head here: how to you keep the fight at 100% every race, every turn. "

"...but i know what to do in the future. it's a little better to race in the group than to drill it solo and blow completely, and the race isn't over until it's over- sprint to that line!"

Read his entire account here -

http://www.velocipedesalon.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4526

And major CONGRATULATIONS to Wisco Pro Brian Matter for making the US Cross Worlds Team!!

Favorite Bike of 2008...

2009-01-07T15:47:00.004-06:00

This was one of my favorite bikes this year. Lisa Strong's custom Titanium Black Sheep. Lisa races for Tough Girl Cycling and is a friend of mine. I snapped these pic at Jingle Cross this year and was hoping to get some better shots at Nationals, but after Lisa's stellar performance in the Masters race she got a little stomach bug and was out of commission the rest of the weekend and I missed my chance. Lisa had James do a titanium fork, which to some may seem odd because of the added weight. Lisa mostly races on super bumpy courses in Colorado and the added comfort from the Ti fork is worth any added weight. The coolest part about having a Ti fork is that you can persuade the builder into welding on an integrated cable hanger for your canti-brakes. How RAD is that!? I often get the question in the shop as to why someone would buy a custom frame if they don't have specific geometry needs - well this is the answer, to get Trick details made for your riding location and style. Lots of people spend time every year trying to build a better mouse trap when it comes to solving front brake cable routing/chatter/shudder issues and this is the best solution I have seen yet!

Super Rad detail!

Custom all the way.

Love it or Hate it...

2009-01-07T09:50:00.003-06:00

Well I sent the templates off. So that makes it final right? All it really means is it will take longer for the kit to arrive if I make any more changes. So the "Crusty" orange is a new addition this year. I like that everything on the kit has some sort of story behind it and Crusty begged and pleaded to have some orange on the kit this year (Really he just said "How 'bout some orange?") and I can't let my boy down, and love it or hate it MWI went a little orange. The response to the orange has been... Well my favorite description is - Deliciously Hideous.

Decide for yourself.

Order is going in ASAP! Please send me what you want, next order won't be until July. I have been asked about knee/arm warmers, and it's not a problem I just need a minimum of 10 orders to add them.

Unofficial 2009 Bike...

2008-12-29T14:25:00.003-06:00

This is a mock up of the unofficial race rig for MWI next season (I know it is a hack photoshop job but deal with it). I still need a few more commitments before I can start taking pre-orders for this custom painted Blue CXC carbon frame set. Blue does not do custom paint requests, but a good friend is a rep and I called in a favor so the MWI version will be limited edition one time run, only available through me. It will take 3-4 months from the order date to arrive so I am looking at placing the order in early Spring. I am not going to disclose the pricing here - let's just say they are going to be a good deal - if you are interested hit me up and we can talk.

All of the templates for the 2009 kit are almost finished and I am taking Spring 09 Kit orders. I will post up the templates when they are finished, but they aren't going to change from the last one I posted.

2009 is almost here and then only 8 1/2 months till cross season...

Eurostyle...

2008-12-23T08:46:00.002-06:00

Okay so it is video day on the blog today.

I have heard the comment that American cyclocross racers are too nice and that is part of the problem when they travel to Europe to race they get pushed around. Most of the Euro Cross Camp posts talk about having to close the door lest you get chopped in the corners. Greg talked about the old Belgian guy telling him he was too nice, but he won some money off of him. Well Steven Hunter who races for the Veloshop has gone over to Europe with Molly Cameron and posted this video of his "brush" with Richard Gronendaal.

Nice move Richard. I can only imagine what was going through his head "Silly pink American get the F*CK out of my way!" I would say that if that is a regular occurrence on the Euro scene than Yes we Americans are too nice.

Heckle video...

2008-12-23T07:23:00.002-06:00

Sam Smith caught some of the Page heckler exchange on tape. Decide for yourself...

Time to kill...

2008-12-22T08:36:00.003-06:00

If you have some you should read this and this. Myerson's personal account of the punch, that sounds like the first hand account Crusty gave after seeing the incident, and an account of the Sachs bike stomping incident from Nathaniel Ward who saw the whole thing.

Myerson...

" Bike racing is just a stupid little game we play as a way to make our lives mean more than the drudgery of day-to-day existence. Our lives really aren’t that hard, just boring. Work, shopping, eating, cleaning – those things are tedious and monotonous and unfulfilling for most of us. We need our lives to be difficult for them to have meaning, and bike racing, like most games or sports, is a way to set up an artificial, safe, inconsequential construct that lets us experience a struggle that feels real, feels meaningful and emotional, but has no actual consequences. No actual consequences, that is, until one person punches another over something that happens in the game."

Nathaniel Ward...

"On heckling: stop it. This seems to be the issue of the season. I have read about it on several blogs, and had many conversations with friends. More than once I have heard people speculate that, like the surge in interest in "Alternative" music after Nirvana's "Nevermind" came out, and the jocks and kids just looking for a fight found out about mosh pits, and the genuinely other-than-mainstream music scene began it's true death roll, 'cross might just crush itself under its own success and popularity.

But really, let's keep this simple up front: saying mean stuff isn't nice."

For sure these are two of my favorite posts of the year.

I just missed seeing the punch, but two very reliable friends saw it and their accounts mirror Myerson's recount of what happened, and I did see part of the heckler/Page's brother-in-law incident after the bike mauling occurred and they were heading back to the bike wash area and another pushing/shouting match broke out. But so many people on the forums and blogs wrote about what they heard had happened or someone told them about that the both incidents quickly became ridiculous and over exposed. So I am really glad that both of these guys clearly took some time to compose their thoughts and put up two very thought provoking posts that put the issues to rest for me, at least until Sam Smith releases the video he has of the bike mauling.

Until then we can all get back to eating a little too much and planning some base miles...

2009...

2008-12-18T10:04:00.005-06:00

Looks to be a huge year for big time cyclocross in the Midwest! Almost 1/4, (11 of 46) of the US UCI cross races are in what I would consider the Midwest, that is a full season of racing for a lot of people. 2 out of 4 USGP weekends are in the Midwest. Major props to Midwest cross racers and promoters! Throw in stellar regional series in Wisconsin, Chicago, Minnesota, Michigan, KC, and the rest of the Midwest and you have some of the best racing in the country. Sure we don't have the numbers of participants at each race as the coasts but our population density isn't the same either. What the Midwest lacks in per race volume we make up in options and local series, all of which seem to be growing by leaps and bounds.

2009 is looking to be the year of the Midwest road trip. How often do you have 5 weekends of UCI races to get your SuperFan mojo going that are all less than 9 hours away. Two of which should have every major player on the US Cross scene duking it out for USGP supremecy. Oh and a Friday NIGHT race added to the Jingle Cross schedule this year! Are you kidding me racing under the lights, can't wait.

KTR Double Cross - Michigan

Planet Bike Cup - Madison, Wisconsin

Jingle Cross Rock - Iowa

I didn't go to Ohio or Kentucky this year, but from what I have heard they are really great races. But if I had to pick only two weekends to attend in the Midwest I would have to pick the Planet Bike Cup in Wisconsin and Jingle Cross Rock in Iowa. Everyone associated with the PB Cup is awesome, and the venue is a blast. The hill at Jingle Cross is epic no matter the weather and what else are you going to do on Thanksgiving weekend - shop?

I need a break, but I am looking forward to next seasons adventure. That's the thing about cross it's an adventure. All the courses and unlocking their secrets and pushing your abilities, the different people you see, crazy guys in speedos, boomboxes crews, and cowbell weilding superfans, the blur of color and cluttered sounds of cheers as you fly by, the smell of fresh mud and wet grass it all blends together to form an energy that you can't find anywhere else but at a cross race.

Start planning your next adventure...

It's Ready...

2008-12-14T16:59:00.003-06:00

The 2009 My Wife Inc kit is finished. We got a ton of looks, comments, thumbs ups, and questions about our kit and high vis jumpsuits this weekend at Cross Nationals. Thanks to everyone who asked and got it. So here it is the 2009 kit...
We had to trade off answering "What's My Wife Inc?" questions this weekend - it was fun.

So what is My Wife Inc - A group of guys, some are married, some are not, who love riding bikes and racing cyclocross. We don't have any "sponsors" in the usual club sense - No bike shop, doctor's office, coffee shop, etc. Just our Family and Friends, way better sponsors in my opinion!! These are the people who let us spend endless hours riding our bikes, weekends away getting dirty, sometimes getting injured racing our bikes in remote locations, pin on our numbers, take our clothes at the start line and bring them to us after the race, cheer their hearts our for us while we are sucking ass in the middle of the pack, in short our personal super fans. They get it and they get us. There aren't many team "sponsors" out there that give you all of that. We are very lucky to have loved ones that support us in so many ways. My Wife Inc is our way of saying thanks to them while we are out riding/racing our bikes. It's also our own little community of connections across the country. So you will never see a bunch of logos all over our jerseys, what you will get is a place in the MWI family and a chance to answer the question for yourself "What is My Wife Inc?" Really it could be My _____ Inc ,friends, family, co-workers, boss, whatever you want to fill the blank in with, we just thought My Wife Inc was funny and you get it or you don't.

It makes me all warm and fuzzy when I hear someone screaming "Go My Wife!" when I am racing and someone asks about the kit after the race. Thanks to everyone this year who got it!

Looking forward to next year, MWI will continue to ride our bikes and come late September start another onslaught on Cross Season! In our ongoing pursuit to be the most PRO un-PRO team we are trying to organize a group buy on some custom painted cross frames for next year. You too could have the bike of cross superstar Jonathan Page painted in My Wife Inc green.

Want to rock the MWI Jackalope next year? All you have to do is ask, start a conversation, say hi?

CX Nationals Day 3...

2008-12-14T08:49:00.002-06:00

Roscoe P Fast Train's Day didn't start so well in the Master 30-34 race yesterday. After watching the start I started running to the pit as the announcers are yelling for medical to go to turn one. I couldn't see the turn and the field had was already strung out as I waited for Ross to come by the pit. Instead I see him walking up towards the pit with his bike in hand. A few guys fell into him before the first turn and he was on the bottom of a big pile up. No one is really sure just what happened, if you saw it let me know. Well a cracked helmet, destroyed helmet, black spots, and bruises ended his season. Luckily his body and bike are mostly okay - I think he is downstairs riding the trainer right now.

Getting passed by Greg of Mud and Cowbells fame. I am pretty sure he was a few rows back, I would have yelled Hi if we weren't going so freaking fast. I had a third row start position, not that it mattered one bit, the start was CRAZY fast and I was a little nervous after Roscoe's start crash. The course was like velcro yesterday, you could just rail the corners, but the spots that were just a bit soft sucked the life right out of your legs.

The corners were much faster than Thursday.

This was one of the soft corners, you can see the mud getting pushed to the outside. A lot of the corners were getting these soft mud berms. If you hit them just right they were fun but if you missed the line they bucked you off pretty good.

Well that's it for the racing season! I gave it what I could yesterday, but I never really recovered from the pile driver I took at Jingle Cross. So it wasn't much. I got pulled with two to go, I guess the freight train was coming right behind me - I am pretty sure I could have gotten another lap, but I hear the lap traffic was already causing problems.

I am going to pit for the Velo Bella ladies as they try to rip it up in the Pro Womens race and then the cross season is officially over. Oh and for the record Crusty forgot his shoes yesterday and didn't race bringing the season tally Me 6 - Crusty 0.

now what?....

CX Nationals Day One...

2008-12-11T18:04:00.005-06:00

Day One is in the books. The course is RAD - climbing, technical turns, off camber, long pavement start, and slop. Parking leaves a little to be desired, and the bike wash needs some improvement (more hoses and closer to the pit) but the course rocks. Watch out for freeze / thaw over night to keep the slop going in the morning. Local weather says the bottom is going to drop on Sunday afternoon bring COLD and rain maybe just about Elite start time.

Cross Nationals...

2008-12-08T15:15:00.003-06:00

Down in KC they had a little Nationals pre-ride this past weekend. I found this picture that shows the profile of the course better than the videos that are floating around. I have heard that there is a 1/4 mile climb, with a good chance of it being into the wind, the course is very exposed and if the weather takes a turn for the worse it will be brutal. Plan on getting to the venue a little early to get yourself situated, I hear the parking is less than ideal, i.e very little to no paved parking!

However it sounds like KLM has made some subtle changes to the course based on previous feedback and it is going to be a blast.

Oh and have you looked at the ever changing forecast? You never can tell in KC, but it's looking like it will be a sloppy weekend.

See you all there!

Cracked...

2008-12-04T09:47:00.004-06:00

Another one bites the dust. I finally got around to cleaning my helmet from Sunday's mudfest. I knew I had hit hard when I went over the bars, but it was a mud landing - mud is soft right. Yeah sure it hurt when I went over and I was stunned a little, but I got right back up, ran down the hill, remounted, and kept racing. I was a little stiff after the race, but didn't think too much about it. Well I have been feeling a little "foggy" this week - I guess I hit quite a bit harder than I thought judging by the cracked helmet! It is however cracked in probably the weakest part - right across the front - but it's the worst cracked helmet I have ever been responsible for.
Time to get back on the bike and finish out the season strong. Only 2 more races left to go at Nationals.

8 1/2 minutes of Jingle Cross..

2008-12-02T08:57:00.002-06:00

This captures what makes Jingle Cross Rock "special" Mt. Krumpet. Check out around 6:40, my technique was a little nicer - I held my bike above my head, fully committed and slid the whole way down.

Jingle Cross Rock Day 2...

2008-12-02T08:39:00.003-06:00

Jingle Cross Rock Day One...

2008-11-29T19:46:00.003-06:00

Jingle Cross Rock day 1 is in the books. It was a great day of racing all around! Lots of Midwest talent peaking at the right time.

Devon and Lisa Women's Pro 1st and 2nd podium rocking the sand.

The Wells bros. killing it from the start.

Troy Wells on the climb.

Marko rocking it!

Marko looking good on the climb.

Some Goofball all by himself.

At least I looked good.

The womens Pro race was great. A group got off the front Josie Jaques-Maynes, Devon Haskell, and Lisa Strong. They took turns attacking each other then settled in for a dual. Devon and Lisa dropped Josie and duked it out for the win with Devon getting the best of Lisa and Josie coming in third.

The men's race got off to an interesting start with a huge pile up early in the first lap allowing the Well's Brothers to escape never to be seen by the chasers again. Andy Jaques-Maynes put in a good effort to catch but couldn't close it down and was soon joined by Wsico boys Marko and Matter. They rode well together trading pulls until something happened to Matter who fell off the pace leaving Andy and Marko to dual it out for the final podium spot. Marko was on Andy's wheel going in to the final turns but Andy came around the final turn all alone to take third uncontested. I didn't hear what happened to Mark in the final turns (they were out of sight behind some barns) or what happened to Matter, but they both rocked it today!

My race- well had an awesome start moving up into the top 3 with some superior line choices on Crusty's wheel but couldn't hold the big boy's wheels. I managed a 13th in a very strong and packed field. Best of all I went up 3-0 on Crusty! He has to take the next three if he wants to pull even - not any easy task!

If tomorrow's weather forecast comes true it is going to be an snowy epic!

LeBam Down and Out...

2008-11-27T14:19:00.002-06:00

Tuesday night was the start of an extended Holiday/Race weekend. With no work until Monday I had a hard ride planned Wed, Turkey and a spin on Thurs, and travel to Jingle Cross on Friday.

Well LeBam picked up a little friend from school, whose name is Projectile Vomit, and came home with other plans. It is always very obvious when she is feeling crappy - all she wants to do is lay on your lap and watch TV, she NEVER just watches TV she is usually doing 2 or 3 other things st the same time. About 6 pm in Tuesday the vomiting party began lasting most of the night. Wednesday she woke up made her way to the couch and then the living room floor and didn't move until bedtime - at least the vomiting had stopped, so we thought. Last night at 1 am it came back. This prompted a trip to the hospital, some IV fluids, nausea medications, and a 4 hour ER stay. I am happy to say she is smiling, eating crackers, and drinking today, the worst may be over. (fingers crossed) Now hopefully no one else in the house gets the bug and we can salvage the weekend.

here's to being healthy!

The weekend...

2008-11-25T12:04:00.004-06:00

So I raced the 3's last weekend at the State Champs. I needed a little "rubing is racing" time for the big boy races coming up. The masters category up here is just too small and we all string out from the start and jsut kind of settle in. I was looking for a little more chaos, and what better place to find it than lining up second row in the State Cat 3 race.

Well I got what I was looking for. I lined up right behind th

e series leader thinking he would start fast. well everyone swarmed him, I got pinched a little and tried to pass on the outside but got stuck in traffic about 5-7 wheel. Tried to make my way up the line but the guys weren't having it. I came around on the flats but the leader was already gone. They just let him ride away, there was never a reaction in the group no one tried to chase him content to let him go. I guess this has been how it played out all year in the 3's. After the split was made a group of 4 was left 2 SS and 2 of us on gears. After trying to make something work between us and failing I uped the tempo and pulled away from the group. I continured to chase but the damage had been done and the leader was well away. Apparently he was met with a less than enthusastic reponse when he crossed the line and I was cheered on with "If i

t wasn't for the sandbagger you would be State Champ!" Whatever the case he rode away, no one chased him , and I couldn't catch him, so good for him he will face the music in the 1/2's next year. I was a little worried I would get the sandbagger label after racing Masters all season but all of the ill will was directed at the other guy, and I had a lot of "If it wasn't for ___......." conversartions after the race from the other guys in the race. It's all good. I had a great time racing in Wisco this year - THANKS TO ALL THE PROMOTERS, SUPERFANS, SUPPORTERS, AND RACERS for an awesome Wisconsin Cross season!!

One of my favorite shots from the race. Borrowed from djohnnymac thanks!

Still 5 more races on the calendar for me 4 of which pit me against Crusty. Watch out Crusty I am feeling fast!

Wisco State Photo Essay...

2008-11-23T19:08:00.004-06:00

Here are some shots from the Wisconsin State Cross Race today. I'll give some words later...

MWI ready to crush the 4's. Dr. Giggles took the title and CT came in 7th?

Start mood was relaxed in the 3's.

Chasing.

Chillin poolside.

Looking good.

"State fan" - state champ and superfan!

Cheering section.

And a Super Pit Crew.

Equals 2nd Place in the Cat 3 State Race.

Loading up the B.A.V. after an awesome day!

Thanks to everyone who braved the cold and cheered their hearts out! All the encouragement makes you faster and helps wash away the pain of pushing yourself past your limits.

3 more weekends of racing folks. Next up round 3 of Crusty v. Endo at Jingle Cross in Iowa.

Jingle Cross Rock...

2008-11-20T08:51:00.002-06:00

So it is official I am going to beat Crusty at Jingle Cross! How do I know, you ask. Well the intraweb says so of course. In fact I am going to take third behind this guy and Shawn, not bad I'll take that. Says so right here. Well that only takes into consideration racers who have been in races that are tracked by BikeReg or the cross results website, but still I am going to beat Crusty! As for Kevin and Shawn those guys have been on all season, Kevin has been sticking it to the 1/2s down in Chicago and Shawn is running second over all in the 30+ here in Wisco, just missing out on the W a couple of times. I am going to turn myself inside out to stay on some wheels and make something happen at Jingle Cross!

...only 4 weekends left here in the upper Midwest - make it happen!
Oh and Crusty just remember as long as you try, it doesn't if you win your lose, well mostly lose.

Arrrgh....

2008-11-18T10:06:00.002-06:00

No matter how cold, tired, or ready to leave you are after a race - never ever assume the officials will get the placing right and leave. I was only passed by one rider on Saturday, who went on to win the race, while sitting in third and somehow today I am in 7th place. Let's just say they blew it big time on this race! Laps were mysteriously disappearing on the lap cards, no one really knew how many laps we had to go, come on only 10 Masters and 8 Pro/1/2 and you can't keep track? Don't even get me started on the rampant sandbagging that is going on in the 4's and 3's that is totally being ignored.

Sorry jsut one of those venting kind of days...

...icy roads forced me indoors to ride! Oh not to mention I took out a sign post last night driving home form work.

Enjoy your internal victories and don't worry about the "results"!

Relentless...

2008-11-16T10:29:00.002-06:00

Coach must have been psychic! Yesterday's race at a new venue was 90% uphill. Uphill start/finish, always climbing, or turning off camber downhill to climb back up again, or the 50 M beach ride, or the steep run-up - always ON no rest with super short laps. How short you ask - after the first 3 we saw 15 to go! Yep! Luckily this guy showed up for a little fun and cut one off my total (he looks to be healing well). After the 1/2's started lapping everyone the officials got a little confused and went form 8 to 5 to go in one lap then from 2 to 0 to go- I don't think anyone was complaining! I'll have to dig for some pictures as the super fans were elsewhere this weekend. Cold weather end of season excuses kept the field small but cut throat. I raced harder and wasn't content with sitting on wheels this time and rolled in for fourth - nice result on a hard climbing course makes me feel like I am on the right track for climb heavy Jingle Cross Rock and Nationals. I do wish the Masters field was larger here in Wisconsin so the races wouldn't get sooo strung out and there were more guys to hunt down and chase.

...enjoy it while you can.

2009 Kit

2008-11-13T09:02:00.002-06:00

The 2009 MWI kit design has been approved and is nearing it's finishing stages. The first order will be going in January 1. If you want to get in on the first order stay tuned for details...

3rd Place...

2008-11-10T20:44:00.003-06:00

At least I can take some solace in putting together a decent fantasy cross team - here
We'll see how long it will last now that Boom is killing it every race! Crusty appears to be afflicted with a strange one - Trebonsis - I hope its not contagious! Me I just lack aggression. Raced a super cool course down in Chicago on Sunday, but couldn't find the fire to hold my spot in the train and let it cho-choo away. I need to find the aggression zone for this race and this one. Can't have Crusty using my to cure his Trebonsis! Speaking of kicking Crusty's ass - I think we are going to have a four wheeled My Wife Inc throw down during Cross Nationals weekend - keep your eyes peeled for karting details as we figure out a time that works for most.

...enjoy the season while it lasts!

Running...

2008-11-03T17:44:00.003-06:00

That seems to be word I keep hearing from the KC folks about this years Cross Nationals course. If the weather turns to crap - which it probably will, it's December in the Midwest after all - you had better be prepared to RUN. I've heard different accounts, but at least three seems to be the number of spots that you would be running if it turns sloppy come the second week in December (not including the stair run up) At least the starting turn appears to be a little bit smoother and have less potential for carnage right off the start! Also it sounds like most of the parking may be in the field as well with very little near by paved parking. Does any of this matter, not really I am still going to go and have a BLAST!

...see you in the mud the second week of December in KC.

Weekend O' Racin'...

2008-11-02T20:19:00.002-06:00

Oh what a weekend! Two very different courses, but soo much fun!

Saturday we had a few visitors from the Windy City which added to the field size and competition, I don't think this guy has raced since nationals. Super fast start, missed clipped, but luckily there were enough twisty turns to keep the field in site. Kept it going for a few laps as the eventual winners eased off the front. Dr. Giggles and I were keeping pace until he put the hammer down on the flats and got a gap. I let it go and waited for the chase group of 4-6 guys to come along. Well the group shattered and only two came up to me as I sat in to wait out the catch. As the laps ticked by it was down to a Planet Bike guy and myself, I was doing just enough work to not get caught but not enough to reel in the Dr. With four to go the PB guy started to get motivated and upped the tempo just then his lever hit some snow fence and he hit the deck HARD - cracked a rib I believe. Well a few laps in no mans land as the Dr and I rolled in for 9th and 110th on the day. Almost got to play the "team" card, but not quite. This race has the longest run-up in Wisconsin on Saturday - 10 times up it on the day, thanks Marko for lapping me and relieving me from an 11th trip up the hill. Man that guy is fast, it is very cool to get the chance to see him flying past you! He deserves all the results he is racking up this year! At least I've got a couple points on him here, the only time I will ever have a chance of being ahead of him in anything bike related I'm sure.

Saturday Pics courtesy of : The Sponsor, thanks honey!

Let the fun begin!

Working it on the run up!

I do love the run ups!

Enough already... NEVER!

LeBam the SuperFan!

Today brought another local course, with a somewhat home field advantage as it is the site of our Wednesday night cross practice. Some what smaller field but still stacked. Feeling spry today I nailed the start and took the hole shot! Too bad I can't hold it for more than half a lap - ha!! Once again the Dr and I were at it until he went on the flats and I covered the chase group. The chase was quickly whittled down to two others and myself, one just happened to be the defending 30+ state champ. As Dr. Giggles was dangling so close off the front I did ZERO work and just sat on the wheels, man is that nice sometimes. One of the guys in our group was bunny hopping the single barrier but didn't really ever gain any time on us, then he cased it once and we never saw him again. (Bunny hopping looks cool but what is the point if you don't gain any time and can't do it clean every time in a race.) As we came around to the double barriers preceding a straightaway the catch was eminent and I prepared to launch once we made it up to the Dr. We did and I went. For the next couple of laps we tried to work David over, each of us taking our turn on the attack, but David is a smart racer and you don't win the 30+ cross title and time trial title without having a little bit in the tank. He anticipated our attacks each time and covered everyone. With two to go I told the Dr. to wait for it, and he did. He tried to make a move with half a lap to go, but David covered, I blew, and David got him in the sprint for 7th (I think). Anyone else we may have been able to work over a little, but David has a good sprint and is a very smart racer, we threw everything we had at him but just couldn't make it happen - it sure was a blast trying!! No pics today as the battery was exhausted.

Some of the most fun racing of the season this weekend! We got to try some "team" tactics, I got some serious run up prep for Jingle Cross, and the wives were there for it all - doesn't get much better, well some mud and Crusty would have made it the perfect cross weekend I think. Maybe the planets will align and perfection, well as close as you can get to it anyway, will happen at Jingle Cross! Oh and the newest MWI convert Chad - no nickname yet - took a well deserved 3rd in the 4's, way to go man! What a weekend...

...I needed a reminder that cross is FUN! Now if I could just get some crappy weather!

2008 Cyclocross National....

2008-11-02T08:48:00.002-06:00

Preview lap from the shake down race they had yesterday in Kansas City. From what I was told about the course if they weather turns bad - rain, snow, ice - you had better be prepared to run!

Yep...

2008-10-30T08:37:00.003-05:00

The blog-o-sphere is a funny thing. Doing a little blogsurfing/procrastination before going out to suffer in the wind and cold for a training ride and came across this post, with the title "From Sublime to Silly"...

That is My Wife Inc rider, Dr. Giggles, at the Washington Park Halloween race. Photo caption courtesy of Gweilli, he lives in New England somewhere so I am not sure where the actual photo came from, funny how a picture taken in Wisconsin on Sunday finds it's way to a blog in New England on Wednesday. Anyway they were throwing gas on the small leaf fire that was burning on the "Bunny Hop or Die" barrier! I kind of thought the same thing as I was going over the barrier - nothing like tubular glue, dangling costumes, and drinking superfans and an open flame.

Alright enough procrastinating time for 1 1/2 hours of over/under intervals.

..enjoy the flame, I mean ride!

Whoville Whirl...

2008-10-28T07:34:00.005-05:00

It looks like we may get to navigate something like this at Jingle Cross this year...

Check out the course map for day one. Better start practicing your tight turns now! I know we don't get a lot of small radius turns up here in Wisconsin, so this should be a ton of fun!!

If you haven't registered for this race yet or you are on the fence - you should go it is one of the most fun races in the Midwest. All the folks that organize/volunteer at the Jingle Cross Rock race are awesome, the course is brutally fun, and what else are you going to do on Thanksgiving weekend, eat leftovers and battle the malls. I'll take battling Mt. Krumpit and eating mini cupcakes! Yep the Wives are making mini cupcakes and will be doing cupcake hand-ups so keep an eye out for them - they shouldn't be too hard to spot ;)

Missing...

2008-10-27T08:41:00.003-05:00

I want them back - no questions asked! Perhaps I foolishly left them in KC, or they may have been taken, or maybe just maybe it is an elaborate plot by Crusty to exact his revenge for the flogging he received. No matter the reason they are gone and I need them back. The season is approaching its apex and now is not the time to be without that fleeting feeling, the whisper in your ear, the spark just when you are in need - I have lost my legs and need to find them again soon!

I went from one of my best races of the year a week ago, mentally at least, to an almost complete implosion! I didn't quit yesterday but I sure wanted to - in fact I was so far off the back that I took my first beer hand up ever. I heard something to the effect of "When you are sucking this bad you don't have a choice you must take the hand up!" I don't think those were his exact words, but that is what I heard. Yep total suckage! I was never in it mentally or physically. I never got in the right mind set from the start, last week after a forced bike change I stayed motivated and found a rhythm. This week I went for another bike change but was just deflated - and couldn't chase. I was clumsy yesterday - riding off the course, running into the tape, bouncing all over, sloppy remounts. It felt like I had inherited Crusty's anchor from last week - no snap in the legs and they were just worked by the third lap.

Sucking off the back...

Next weekend is a double header and a chance for redemption.

And if you see my legs out there on the side of the road tell them come home I miss them and want them back, I've got some nice Qoleum waiting for them!

Turkeys,weddings,and racing...

2008-10-21T07:29:00.003-05:00

It was a long one this past weekend. No racin' in Wisconsin for me, my sister was getting married in KC, so the fam made the trip down for a long wedding weekend and a little cross racing KC style on Sunday. Crusty offered up his new casa for us to homebase out of - thanks! The trip down was uneventful, stopped at the largest truck stop in the world - it's really not that cool if you aren't a trucker looking for chrome.

Did a little shake down ride with Crusty on Friday afternoon. We saw 8 wild turkeys chillin in some one's front yard - what a day to forget my camera. You have to love the KC suburbs, very little traffic and an abundance of wildlife. Next time I will remember my camera and Crusty better offer up some gravel roads - I miss them so!

The wedding and reception was nice. LeBam had a wonderful time and was a beautiful flower girl!

SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SOMEDAY!!
Crusty v. Heenan Round 2

The race was at the same venue as last years nationals, but a different part of the park. The rumor is that the park was not properly rehabilitated and no one is allowed back to that spot again - hence new venue for nationals this year. Luckily the park is huge and offers up some other nice race spots. What do you get when the team putting on the race is sponsored by a local brewery? - a live bluegrass band, free food, and free Boulevard Beer! Not to mention a totally fun course - pavement start and finish (Thank You) the rest was all grass. Off camber turns, 3 sets of barriers, two little run-ups, fast sections, power sections, and technical sections - the course was very well rounded and a BLAST.

Lined up a little late (I am noticing a disturbing trend), but worked my way up to Crusty and squeezed my way into a second row start spot. I knew that Crusty would punch it from the start and move up fast so on the whistle I gassed it and he came around. We both hit the little left hand downhill grass transition in the top five or so. I felt the rear squirm a bit on the turn - and started worrying about my pressure. Less than hundred meters later I was FLAT and going backwards fast, this being the second round of my battle with Crusty I was pissed and rode as fast as possible on a totally flat tubular to the pit, switched bikes and began what would be a 5 lap chase to catch Crusty. photo: the wife aka the sponsor

I found a nice rhythm and starting picking guys off one and two at a time, as the laps ticked off I was getting faster and gaining ground on Crusty. With 3 1/2 laps to go I made the catch and got on his wheel. He said something like "It's about time you caught me!" I replied "Yeah I forgot to take my pre-race poo and had to stop." As we went around the course I was looking for a spot that I could attack on the next lap around. When we approached the finishing straight our friend Mike had just turned off the pavement into the grass. I glanced over a Crusty as he settled into his hoods for a tempo chase - I went to my drops, stood up and lit the fuse! BAM I was gone and caught Mike right before the run-up and let him pull me into the headwind before coming around and leaving him behind for a solid 15th on the day.

Not my best result of the year thus far, but I feel it was my best race of the year. I was motivated to chase after flatting at the start, instead of mentally checking out. I raced smart and efficient, getting on wheels in the wind and coming around on the flats. I caught Crusty recovered and attacked when he wasn't expecting and went on to catch a couple of more guys. Even though it was one of the "what if" races - what if I hadn't flatted, what if I had chased a little harder and faster... I am very pleased with the race, just looking at the results seldom paints the entire picture! Crusty's version he has a few more pics.

Crusty 0 - Me 2

photo: the sponsor
At least he looks good.

Rounds 3 and 4 are set for November at JingleCross in Iowa - neutral ground, will Crusty be ready?

Racin' for fun...

2008-10-12T15:36:00.003-05:00

With no WCA races on the schedule this weekend, I signed on to help a friend with his Chicago CX Cup race. We rolled down on Saturday to help with course set-up, eat some Chinese food, and watch action movies.

Sunday was "race" day...

wait, what were already lining(ed) up?

Yep, not really and A race for me. Let's see no warm up and got the the start late. I decided to just have fun and ride my bike. Ross had a good start and I had a crappy one, so I sat on some wheels and let him use his engine to pull away. I got onto the wheels of a couple of guys sitting in the top 10 of the Chicago series and thought for sure they would be motivated to do some work resulting in pulling me up to my teammate. Well that never happened, I got onto the wrong wheel on the approach to the hill, he bobbled and we were both gapped. They must not run for training in Chicago, because everyone was complaining about "The Hill"

You rode up the far side , then back down, then ran up the middle, and finally back down. It really wasn't that bad ( I passed 4 guys on the first lap run-up) and it is good practice for this race.

I caught up to another top 10 series guys and stayed on his wheel for a lap or two, and decided I would promote good border relations and told him I wouldn't go for it at the line so he could get his maximum points for the local series. I knew I could take him and really whats the point in sprinting when it is 9th and 10th place? In the end neither Ross or myself really pushed it resulting in Ross finishing 6th, one place out of the money, and me playing nice guy.

"Rock Fist" kind of day.

Its sweet to go out and have a good time without worrying about warming up, starting position, results, or the other racing stuff that sometimes gets in the way of a nice ride in the grass.

Next weekend is game on for round two versus Crusty - "The Beatdown in the Hometown!"

Race Day...

2008-10-05T20:18:00.002-05:00

Cold and wet Sunday = GOOD TIMES!

Boom Box Crew...

2008-10-02T10:59:00.002-05:00

photo- Kris Ugarriza

Found the photo in this article. Boom Box Crew getting me pumped, maybe this week I can feed off them to just push that little bit harder.

Little white crutch...

2008-10-01T15:11:00.003-05:00

I was thinking about the last couple of race weekends and my apparent inability to push myself during the race. Over/Under intervals, Lactate Threshold intervals, Power intervals all lasting an hour or more are no problem during training - so what's the deal. Then it hit me...

...the little white crutch

I am so used to training with one ear plugged in. The music distracts me from the pain, the intensity, the time, and helps motivate me. I realized at the JP Cup in Madison that every time I came around the course to where the "Boom Box Crew" was camped out playing old school heavy metal I would pick up the pace and put in a hard effort. Then once I was out of earshot and the surge had wained I would settle the pace back down and repeat again when I hit the BBC spot again.

So today I went cold turkey - no more iPod on training rides! 1 1/2 hours of Over/Unders unaided by the little white crutch, it was actually a good session after I got over the initial "Oh Crap 1 1/2 hours of distraction free pain" I realized that I can push myself for that long with only my thoughts and internal motivation. I actually found I was pushing harder on the last interval than I normally do - perhaps it was my imagination but it sure felt like I was pushing harder.

So the quest for what hold me back continues...

...enjoy the ride.

Crusty v. Me...

2008-09-30T08:59:00.003-05:00

Well Crusty made the trip up from KC with quite a bit of drama, but that is his tale to tell. Bike building ensued Friday (the Edge CX Fork is AMAZING), so it was game on for Saturday - there has been much trash talking on both ends for the first meet up of the year. We made the trip to Madison Saturday morning, unloaded and got our game faces on. I wasted my front row call up with another poor start and had to fight some traffic to catch up to Crusty. After a couple of laps I had reeled him in and gave him some words, but he wasn't having it so I pushed on. A few more laps rolled by, 5 to go I couldn't believe it. It was hot and mentally I fell apart - AGAIN! MWI teammate Dr. Gigglie caught on after a trip to the pit and I tried to stay on his wheel and failed as another friend was closing in on us. Rolled in for 14th, fairly disappointing, but at least it's 1-0 in my favor over Crusty. I am not clear on the sequence of events but he slid out on an off camber and changed bikes, but that's racing - maybe he needs to brush up on his handling skills before the rematch in 3 weeks down in KC :)

Sunday brought another day with a similar outcome - Crusty raced 3's started fast. lost his fancy saddle and had to switch bikes again. The good Dr. handed ti to me again as mental problems continue to plauge me this season!

It was awesome to see pros from far and wide at a local race. Once again Michael Mueller amazed me with his Euro smoothness! So quite and perfect. The brothers LaLonde were out there killing it for the local sponsor. My wife was called to action to assist with Jonathan Baker's ankle meets chain ring incident. Todd Wells and Jonathan Page and an epic battle on Sunday - Todd almost had him, I always like watching Todd race! Best of all was a weekend at the races chillin' with the homies.

Fortune Cookie Wisdom...

2008-09-24T11:55:00.003-05:00

Call it Karma, coincidence, or what have you but here is my fortune from lunch

To guarantee success, act as if it were impossible to fail.

With round one of Crusty v. Endo looming this weekend and my confidence level slightly diminished after racing in Michigan this was just I needed. You see I tend to hold something back when I race, for what I have no idea. I find it hard to push into the blurry eyed, snot dripping, drooling from the mouth zone when racing instead always holding something in reserve never risking it all in the moment. I have been in the red zone many times - doing intervals, Wednesday Night practice, but very seldom when it matters most. With bragging rights on the line Saturday I am committed to pushing myself and finding the place inside where my inner demons dwell and kicking their ass.

...here is to racing and holding nothing back.

Double Cross

2008-09-20T19:18:00.002-05:00

Watched lots of guys roll tires

Watched JP fiddle with his loose saddle, have it fall off, keep riding, do the run-up, and try to remount sans saddle.
Saw lots of racers overcome by the weather.
Crashes everywhere.
Witnessed quiet perfection in the barriers.

Oh yeah I raced 35+, but that's another story...

Smooth!

Marko's a righty

Coming in HOT!

Lots of rolled tubulars on this off -camber downhill turn!

tomorrow is another day.

KTR Double Cross Day One...

2008-09-20T16:38:00.003-05:00

Jonathan Page killed it today with over a minute lead on Mike Mueller in second and a charging Mike Garrigan in third, and Marko LaLonde finishing a solid fourth. Awesome course waay too hot for cross season well into the 80's

Every time Michael Mueller went through the barriers all you heard was his feet, no bike noise, and just feet kicking when he went to re-mount! It was cool!

First Photo dump - the pit shot of Jonathan is right after is saddle fell off and he road to the pit without.

More after dinner....

...CX Season is finally here

Cross Nationals...

2008-09-15T07:48:00.002-05:00

Stayed up late like everyone else last night to register for Cross Nationals. I forgot to renew my license beforehand and wasn't allowed to complete my registration! Crap! But after jumping through the hoops at USA Cycling I went back to the registration page and was allowed to finish up from where I left off. Sweet. Apparently there was a system crash or glitch at USAC (nah that couldn't happen could it) that locked a bunch of people out.

On a different note how about Jonathan Page going to Chequamegon MTB race and killing it - way more interesting than what happened at the 12Hours of Snowmass!

Tuesday Miss and Out...

2008-09-09T20:53:00.002-05:00

This is what happens when some track racers organize a training race. You get a miss and out at Estabrook Park. The first week showing was a little light, but some good racers from Pegasus were in the mix. It was decided that we would go with a double elimination format to keep the race a little bit longer. After a parade lap to let everyone dial in the course it was game on. Cale led the first lap, I came around for the second lap hoping to make a split in the group and mix it up. Well it split into two guys from Pegasus and myself. Outnumbered I stayed on the front keeping the tempo up to force them to want it if they were going to attack. After a lap or so of this Jason went for it, but Cale jumped on his wheel then I closed the gap to Cale and recovered for a half lap. I went back to the front coming through the finish notching up the tempo again. Kept it up and could hear the hard breathing behind me - just what I wanted. Then Jason dropped a chain in the barriers so I ramped it up a notch to make him suffer getting back on when he finally made it back I was poised for an attack but it never came. I stayed on the front riding tempo until it was just the three of us left. I continued to ramp up the pace dropping Jason and it was down to Cale and myself. Cale and I agreed on one to go for the win. When we came back around to the pavement section I put the power to the pedals gaped Cale then held it all the way to the line. Good times.

What a difference a week can make! I felt like crap last week and this week I was on tempo cruise control. The build up to the KTR Michigan races and JP Cross is looking good.

...enjoy the small victories.

Cross Needs v.2...

2008-09-09T08:53:00.003-05:00

So second on the list of things you need for cross season is the Craftsman Power Inflator. Last year at Cross Nationals there were a few of these floating around the pro pit and most of us mechanics in the pits were more interested in this little gadget than all the bikes. What makes it so special you ask. Well first off you have to do a little mod to make it more useful - cut off the bad multi use head and replace it with a nice presta head from Silca and a ziptie.

Since getting one of these right after National the only time I use a floor pump anymore is at the shop. Road, MTB, and cross tires are handled with ease. Yep 120 psi in your road tires - no problem. But the cool thing is the digital gauge with auto shut-off. You can plug in a tire pressure up to 40 psi pull the trigger and the inflator will shut off when the desired pressure is reached. The digital pressure gauge is as accurate as any floor pump gauge I have seen and the whole thing runs off a Craftsman 19.2 v battery. The inflator does not come with a battery so if you don't already own any Craftsman cordless product you will have to buy a battery and charger. Sears is perpetually having a sale in the tool department and battery packs and charges are often included. So on your way home zip on by your local Sears and pick one up or when you are finished reading blogs pop over here and order one up.

...enjoy your gadgets.

Mmmm brakes...

2008-09-05T20:08:00.002-05:00

So I posted a couple of days ago about these making me feel fast, well they do, but more importantly they are AWESOME. The TRP Euro X Mag brake is well worth breaking open the piggy bank. They are a breeze to set up thanks to the improved Inplace adjustable brake posts and the integrated barrel adjuster. You can see the adjuster and if you look at the end of the brake post you can see a fitting for a 4mm hex wrench to adjust the toe in on the pads. That trick little adjuster solves one of the largest complaints with this style of brake, no need to lug out the adjustable wrench and bend your brake arms.

So beyond the "White Sex" good looks and blinging Gold accents, these brakes are the real deal. Great modulation, more than enough power for a cross brake, mud clearance, and an easy set up - " If you have the means I highly recommend picking some up." Yes they are expensive and yes they are only brakes but come on you know you have $2000+ carbon wheels for cross whats a couple of bills for some HOT brakes?

So how do they compare. I had some Pauls Neo-Retros/Touring Cantis they were nice but I didn't blink at selling them off, they were a little bit finicky in setting up and I personally never liked the CNC look. Last year both bikes had the IRD CAFAMs, nice brakes, good power, okay mud clearance, functional but not exciting. (I still have a set on the B bike - until I can sell some plasma for another set of TRPs)

But in the end when your covered in mud and all smiles does it really matter? I just wish the season would start so I could stop spending money on my upgradeitis.

...ride what makes you happy.

Rain Chilled Recovery...

2008-09-04T11:50:00.002-05:00

Ahhhh late summer rain showers! 60 degrees and raining perfect weather for a recovery ride. 1 hour of easy spinning in the rain to wash away two bad days on the bike. Just what I needed - cleansing for the body and mind. Clear out the self doubt that clouds the mind and make the legs heavy.

A clean bike is a fast bike...

... a clean mind is a fast body.

Makes me feel fast...

2008-09-01T18:44:00.002-05:00

So yeah I spent a small fortune on some brakes for the race rig. But you know what the first time I hopped on my bike after they were installed I felt faster. Call it crazy, but a lot of this game is mental and they make me feel fast. Wanna know something else that makes me feel fast...

LeBam makes me feel fast. In her eyes I am the fastest Daddy on two wheels. How can I feel slow when she is cheering so loud - did I mention she has a cowbell collection.

Talking "smack" to this guy makes me feel fast too.

Whatever it takes. I always struggle with the mental capacity of racing, especially the self worth aspect. This year I am focusing on feeling fast, surrounding myself with positive people and thoughts. I deserve that front row starting spot, the podium, the blinky light and bar tape prizes, I have worked hard and am ready to rip it up!

...What make you feel fast? Surround yourself in fast, what ever that may be for you - new kit, brakes, tires, wheels, lucky base layer, pre-race ritual, new socks every race - it's all good, if you feel fast then half the battle is over.

Jonathan Page Cross Clinic...

2008-08-31T21:17:00.006-05:00

I was fortunate enough to spend yesterday afternoon with one of the best cyclocross racers in the WORLD. Yep I went the the Jonathan Page/Planet Bike/Capital City Velo Club Cross Clinic yesterday - it was a blast. Thanks to Renee Callaway , Planet Bike , and all of the volunteers for making it happen! Both Renee and Planet Bike do a ton to support an awesome cross scene in Wisconsin. Renee is a class A race promoter and runs THE site for cross info in Wisconsin and Planet Bike in addition to giving 25% of it's profits to cycling advocacy is a major supporter of the local series. So sign up for her race and go buy some Planet Bike product from your local bike shop.

On to the clinic. 40+ cross fanatics showed up to glean every bit of info they could out of JP and the rest of the Planet Bike Cross Crew. After some introductions, Jonathan jumped right into demonstrating the most anxiety ridden skill for most racers - dismounts and remounts. JP walked everyone through the basics of stepping onto your bike (Never think of it as jumping back on to your bike!), making contact between the saddle and your inner thigh then sliding onto the saddle. Jonathan also showed everyone an often overlooked subtlety of the dismount - resting your left thigh against the saddle as you approach the dismount and prepare to swing your right leg over so that you have total control over your bike. After everyone was turned loose to practice under the watchful eyes of the Planet Bike crew it was awesome to see people dialing in the skill and start to banish the dreaded skip/stutter steps.

Interesting side note: JP is of what I consider the "East Coast Old School" of clipping your left foot out and resting it on the pedal as you approach the dismount, then unclipping your right swing it over and passing it between your left foot and the frame vs. the "other way" of swinging your right leg over stepping behind your left foot as you pop your left cleat out. I was taught the step through way and tried to master it over two seasons (crashing numerous times in the process) before giving up and going with the step behind method - it works for me, I am much faster this way, and I don't get tripped up. I did try the step through method during the clinic, but it still feels wrong and slow to me and I feel that as long as it works for you, is fast, and it doesn't trip you up whichever style you go with is fine.

Jonathan then demonstrated a much under utilized portaging skill in the US - shouldering your bike. Every year I see racers pushing the bike or struggling with how to carry the bike on run-ups, stairs, etc. It is obvious they haven't been shown or practiced how to shoulder a bike. When done properly it is a much more stable and faster method to get up a run-up.

Next was cornering, for me this was the highlight as I got to ride Jonathan and Jesse's wheel through some off-camber turns and see their body position and lines. JP talked about scrubbing speed early, digging your tires into the turn, using your body position to control the bike and keep positive traction, and then accelerate out of the turn. He highlighted a major difference in the cornering style of road racing v. cross racing. Roadies tend to lean the bike into the turn, but in cross that is a recipe for washing out your tires and going down. Instead keep your body centered over the bottom bracket keeping your self balance over the bike so that you can shift your weight to increase traction if needed.

The group then road over to a sand pit where Jonathan demonstrated the fine style of riding sand. I really do wish more courses incorporated sand pits/beaches into the races, they are a great way to split up a field and make a race more interesting as they tend to make the cross specialists (those who practice the unique skills of cross) rise to the top v. the fast bike riders.
Jonathan's advice here was to actually accelerate towards the sand, commit to riding it, slightly unweight the front end as you enter the sand then immediately accelerate all the way to the end. As you can imagine much comedy ensued as bodies and bikes were piled all about the sand pit and riders were dumping sand out of their shoes. I think in the end most everyone made it all the way through the sand a few times.
As the clinic was wrapping up and people were patiently waiting for the post clinic cookout to begin, Jonathan had us play a bike handling game "A little dab will do ya". The rules are simple everyone rides their bike into a small square, you have to stay clipped into your pedals, your hands must stay on the bars, if you put your foot down/ride out of the square/or take your hands off the bars you are out. It was fun and a great way to practice controlling your bike with body english.

THANKS TO
Renee, Planet Bike, Jonathan Page, Jesse LaLonde, Bob Downs, Kristin Wentworth, Anna Young and all the volunteers that made this clinic a success. What a fabulous way to kick off the cross season. Sorry no pictures, I was too busy paying attention. I am sure their will be some up on the maddcross site and Jonathan has a couple on his page.

Wildlife...

2008-08-23T20:31:00.002-05:00

On Tuesday I ran over a squirrel. It ran in front of the guy riding next to me then right under my bike, I hit it with my rear wheel then it was flung up and the squirrel hit me in the ass. I was so freaked out I kept asking the other guy to check by butt for squirrel guts! Well ever since then it has been an all out onslaught of suburban wildlife - squirrels, bees, big ol' flies, deer, everything except the bunnies. The bunnies and I have an understanding they run the other way when I yell "bunny, bunny". But the squirrels are pissed about the "Incident" and the word is out. They want revenge and they have enlisted all the other critters. That or these guys got together with the squirrels for some heavy work prior to cross season (just kidding guys). It is getting dangerous - deer in the middle of the trail, kamikaze insects, I need to find a way to make it right with the squirrels before they take me out.

...any one have a bunch of grade A acorns?

Building..

2008-08-20T22:18:00.004-05:00

So it seems I have become the go to guy for some cross builds this year. I currently have two home builds lined up and have just completed one. It's nice because I like building race bikes, prepping the frames, hanging the parts, dialing everything in, it's all in the details. Maybe that's why I have a small but loyal following of customers who allow me the privilege of working on their wonderful racing machines. Well here is my friend Ross and fellow My Wife Inc'ers race rig for this year. A sweet looking 2008/9 Blue CX6.5. His first ride was tonight at Wednesday Cross Practice and he was all smiles.Notice the "team issue" green bar tape and pedals

This is what happens when doctors work the night shift - they end up with green skewers that match the springs in their green pedals!

Ross is stoked on his new bike. I had one for my "b" bike last year and they are very nice. If you are looking for and affordable race ready cross bike, put the CX6.5 on your short list. Top tube cable routing, full carbon fork, nice geometry, and a cool paint job this year. This bike as pictured is just a hair over 18lbs with out any silly parts or going too crazy on the wallet.

Oh, I forgot my socks tonight and did the cross ride w/o it was a pretty funny sight, seeing as I usually roll the tall boy socks.

..can you feel it.

To run or not to run...

2008-08-19T09:45:00.002-05:00

There is a lot of talk this time of year on the subject of running and if you should or shouldn't bother. I don't like to run, in fact it is one of the reasons I stopped doing adventure races, but last year my coach had me run twice a week and WOW did it make a difference. Run-ups were no longer a problem in fact they became a strength. I could now gap or catch on any run section, the one time I had to run to the pit for a bike swap I wasn't dead when I got there and was still able to pick some people of after swapping bike (that's the point of a pit bike to stay in the race, not look good right?) So say what you like about running but if your courses feature regular run-ups it is well worth an hour of your time a week - unless you are racing Masters in Wisconsin then stay on your couch eating creme puffs. Just like riding, start with some base mile runs and gradually work in some short intervals and stair/hill climbs you will be glad you did when you are forced to run in a race.

...vary your routine and reap the benefits.

What you want...

2008-08-16T19:20:00.003-05:00

So this is the first of things you don't NEED, but want for cross season. The Karcher power sprayer. The sponsor, aka my wife, got this for me for father's day after I put it on my wish list for cross season. What is it you ask - it's an electric power washer, yeah I know no power washing bikes, but come on you've never taken your bike to a coin operated spray car wash on your way home from a muddy race. Well this thing rocks, plug it into a power outlet hook up a hose and instant controllable power. It features a nice long sprayer hose with either a rotating spray head or and adjustable power head, it's small lightweight and easy to hook up . It made short work of the Wednesday night cross practice leftovers and was much faster than the tried and true bucket, brush, and rinse method (I am sure you can use for lots of non bike related stuff as well). They are available at Target, Lowe's and I am sure a ton of other places for around $100. If you don't like spending all afternoon cleaning your bike before the next day's race then go all euro and get your self an electric sprayer you will be glad you did!

...remember a clean bike is a fast bike!

Thanks Coach....

2008-08-15T09:05:00.002-05:00

For the hour and a half long bowl of lactic acid for breakfast.

...I am full now!

Spinning faster...

2008-08-14T08:55:00.006-05:00

So this guy uses a three sided teeter totter to represent the balance in his life. Keeping with the playground theme - I like to think of the merry-go-round. You know the one that as a kid you would hold on as tight as you could while your friends ramped the speed up as fast as they could trying to rip you off or make you puke. The merry-go-round would gain speed then your friends would get tired right at that puke/fall off moment and they would let it slow back down, then in your dizzy nauseous state you begged for another turn. Everything speeds up and gradually slows again much like that merry-go-round ride - base training to specialization, summer craziness at the bike shop to fall lazy days, summer off school to LeBam's first year of all day school. Yep that's it my merry-go-round has slowed down and I am spinning it back up as fast as I can for another fast and furious fall. Weeeeeeeeeeee.......

...cross season is racing ever closer.

Registered for the first Wisconsin race, we have gone big time. Weekly cross practice started last night. Only three of us showed but it was a blast - Cool rain falling down, a few warm up laps then the chase was on. Chasing each other all over the park getting turn practice at speed. Wet grass + friends = good times.

So the race rig is coming along nice. Still need the last ingredient to awesomeness! I am still undecided on race wheels for the year, what to do - get with the crustyes and carbon up or play it safe and go with a couple of sets of aluminium hooped wheels. I made yet another change to the components this week. They are VERY nice and don't go to eleven.

Back to wheels. Options, options, and options. Balance of cost, desire, functionality, and brand support. I like my Record hub/Velocity tubies from last year - fantastic hubs and okay rims, but after rolling the bosses carbon clincher Reynolds for the last couple of weeks I have been seduced by carbon's sweetness. In the grand scheme does it really matter, but after all that is part of what makes THE season so rad!

...Cross Geeks Unite THE season is upon us!

Super Record...

2008-07-27T08:57:00.004-05:00

This bike was one of the bikes I really wanted to ride while at the 2009 Specialized launch. The 2009 S-Works Roubaix SL2, it just happened to be a bonus that one of two bikes available equipped with Campagnolo Super Record one was a SL2 in my size!

The new Roubaix SL2 borrows some key technologies last years Tarmac SL2 - over sized lower bearing at the headtube/fork junction, Specialized also moves the bearing upward in the frame to transfer the load directly into the downtube and allows for a smooth transition at the fork crown. This gives the Roubaix SL2 a much more precise front end. I feel that the new front end and carbon layup schedule gives the Roubaix SL2 a very much needed boost in performance. The front end is more precise and the bottom bracket is much stiffer resulting in better energy transfer to the cranks and a livelier feeling frame,while retaining its unmatched vertical compliance. That said the Roubaix is still more of a Cadillac cruiser style bike, perfect for some of this guys rides - long gravel road grinders with plenty of climbing and a few heated sign sprints. The longer wheelbase of the Roubaix gives it a very stable feeling, the flip side of that is you really need to think about setting up this bike for turns - more of a carving feeling vs. the point and shoot feeling of the Tarmac. That said the new Roubaix just may be the perfect bike for a lot of riders out there - unbelievable all day comfort with a performance pedigree that will make you ride faster than you ever thought you could!
Super Record. Well it lived up to all of my expectations! I was on the fence about the appearance/ergonomics, but refused to have an opinion until I had held it in my hand. Campagnolo nailed it on the lever shape it is obvious they thought about and looked at how cyclist ride when on the hoods. They inward sloping hook on the hood melts into your hand and feels very natural, it makes you feel like you could ride tempo at the front of the peleton all day long. Campy also redesigned the lever itself by increasing the length, providing a more ergonomic sweeping motion to the shift lever, and a nice hooked end to the brake lever that is easier to reach in the drops. The front derailleur is further refined form the previous Quick Shift version requiring even less force to shift while maintaining a very precise feel. 11 speed say what you will, but it didn't miss a shift. I didn't stop to count the cassette to see the range, I never felt out of gear climbing the pass towards Vail with a standard 53/39 up front and could tell the closer gear spacing while shifting through the flats. Do you need 11 cogs on the rear, well no you really only need one, but 11 allows for a closer ratio with quicker shifts. Everyone thought 10 speed was too much and durability would be a factor, but that hasn't really been the case, so time will tell if 11 speed will rule the road. One thing is for certain, I am waiting to see the inside of a the new levers to find out if I can put a 10 speed index ratchet in to retrofit it to my current 10 speed drivetrain - those levers RULE!

A surprise on the Roubaix SL2 was the wheelset. I didn't catch it until I was returning the bike, but it was equipped with the yet to be released ALX tubeless wheels. This is a joint project between Specialized and Campagnolo. The wheels utilize a Campy tubeless rim, Specialized spoke pattern and DT Swiss made hubs. Campy uses their magnetic inserted nipple system to keep the rim free of holes. Specilaized will be the first company to offer a complete wheel and tire that are road tubeless compatible when these hit finally hit the market. I thought I was riding a tubular wheelset the entire time of my test ride on this bike the ride was that nice. I had ridden a different Roubaix SL2 previously so I new it was the wheels and not the frame I was feeling. I was pleasantly surprised to find out they were tubeless. This was my first ride on road tubeless and it did feel like I was riding nice tubulars, handling and comfort were noticalby better than my previous ride on the same bike with standard tires. As road tubeless gains speed it will become a very viable option in the market much as MTB tubeless has once rim and tire options have caught up with the technology.

Stay tuned for some info on the new Carbon Epic...

But this one goes to 11...

2008-07-21T21:28:00.002-05:00

So I am lucky enough to be at Copper Mountain for the 2009 Specialized Dealer Product launch. Today was my lucky day - SUPER RECORD ROUBAIX SL2. Yep I rode it, rode it good. You will have to wait until I get back for all the juicy details, but lets just say you should start saving your pennies now. If it is possible to retrofit 10 speed internals into the levers - Oh Man I will be in heaven. I also rode a Tarmac SL2 with new Dura Ace 7900 - underwhelmed by the group and wowed by the frame. Pics and such when I get home.

The 2009 Specialized line looks good so far, lots of carbon and trickle down technology, but still not a "race platform" cross bike. No new 29"er platform, I was really hoping they would pull out an Epic 29"er. If all goes well tomorrow I will score a ride on a 2009 Epic even if it is a baby wheel bike it still looks sweet.

mmmm super record.

Goals...

2008-07-12T20:08:00.000-05:00

I WILL podium at the Cross State Championships.
I WILL finish in the top 5 in the Masters Overall Series.
I WILL finish in the money at JingleCross.

...there I said it.

...more importantly I believe it.

What are your goals? Keeping them to yourself doesn't count. Tell someone, write it down where others can see, this gives them life and makes you more motivated to succeed.

Rain...

2008-07-11T09:48:00.002-05:00

Over/Under LT intervals in the rain at 6am. Ahh I love riding in a warm rain!

Kit order number two is going in soon. If you need some Jackalope in your life find this guy, chase someone down wearing the kit, or hit me up. But you better act soon, this is the last time to get the first edition My Wife Inc kit. Cross season is coming get yourself ready.

enjoy the weather.

Grapevine...

2008-07-06T22:02:00.002-05:00

I hear the timing of this tire is not going to be good for cross season. Sounds to me like they will not be out in time for the start of the season, also sounds like the tread may still be a prototype at this point.

Still on the search for some more info on the Challenge Fango tire...

Someone needs to make a 23mm wide 32 hole aluminium tubular rim - wouldn't that be nice.

Cross season is coming time to hunt down all those "necessities"

enjoy the hunt..

So this showed up...

2008-07-02T12:30:00.002-05:00

A couple of weeks ago this showed up on my doorstep. What exactly do you do with such a thing? It has been hanging up at the shop with the jerseys from the teams that we sponsor. I feel a little like it should have a giant asterisks on it, really can there be a Cat 4 state champ? I raced half the season in the fours but couldn't cat up so I raced with the Masters. I was still 5th overall in the the series for Cat 4 after only doing half the races. I am glad to see they changed the upgrade rules for cross - but what effect will it have on regional series. Any racer who is doing well points wise in a series, especially in the 4's and 3's, should most likely receive an automatic upgrade before the series is over. (2 wins = auto upgrade)

Whatever the case may be I was the fastest that day in that race and as a result I got a jersey.

So as my friend Shope would say "Now what?'

Well it's time to make some goals for this season. I accomplished what I wanted last year and the plan started earlier this year. I am focusing on having another productive season with some good results.

Buy Local...

2008-07-01T22:04:00.002-05:00

I have dubbed July my personal "Buy Local" month. Working in a locally owned independent bike shop I have to deal with "internet shoppers" every day who make purchases online then come to me to install or fix problems with said products, which I do with a smile and a fee. When, if they had made the purchase at the shop they would get the smile free of charge. So it got me thinking about my own personal buying habits. I am not an internet shopper, but I due frequent a chain grocery store and restaurants, Target, etc. What about the little guy who passion isn't bikes but pizza, coffee, baking, selling hardware supplies, or what have you. They face similar issues to the LBS, squeezing out buy mega marts and the intraweb. So I have made the commitment to buy locally all month. I am trying to make it exclusive for the month of July. The general conception about small locally owned businesses, is they are more expensive. I am not so sure this is the case, many big box stores lure you in with loss leaders to make you think you are saving money everywhere in the store, when in fact you may not be. Sure you have to think about where you are going to shop, but that is part of the adventure to see if all of your needs can be fulfilled by a local proprietor. The misses wants some new curtain rods, where does one buy curtain rods locally?

think about where you are going and who it may effect - support your local businesses, for a day, a week, a month, it's good karma!

Opportunity...

2008-06-30T07:27:00.002-05:00

After Saturday's Crit start and watching/hearing a lot of people slip off, miss, and just plain screw up clipping in at the start got me thinking. Every time you ride your bike you have to clip in your foot. You would think it wouldn't be a problem, but a lot of riders don't take the time to practice clipping. If you watch riders starting from a stoplight or stop sign you will see what I mean most will kind of ease through the intersection and take time clipping in. Every time I have to stop while riding I do a mini start when I get going again. I usually have the same anticipation for the light to change as I do for the official to start a race. When the light changes I think about getting a couple of good strong pedal stokes in and clipping in cleanly. It may not seem like much, but think how much better some cross races or MTB races would go if you were able to get to the first turn a few places higher as the result of a clean fast start. Sometimes it is the little skills that can make a difference. Take time to practice the little things. How do you get off your bike when your are done riding? How do you start from a dead stop? How do you get on your bike when you are on the grass, or dirt? Practice those cross specific skills all year, so they stay fresh and sharp.

Think about the small stuff.

20 Bucks...

2008-06-29T21:41:00.004-05:00

Is a lesson learned,
A valuable tip,
A hard training ride,
A first time prime.

Kitted up and payed the man for "Roadie Race Saturday" again. Yep another Saturday and another Crit. I was feeling much better this time, road the bike over to the race, warmed up and was taking this one a little more serious. RRS started well I rolled with the lead group for a couple of laps, but after almost getting crashed out in those two laps I started to get antsy. The pace was all over the place, first fast then a little slow. Guys were weaving all over the place, I had enough. We came down an incline to a false flat and I found myself in the top ten. Well I gave it the gas to see what would happen.

As I was pedaling up the crosswind side and guys were yelling coming up on the left, I thought this is a bad idea. I am taking the wind, attacking on the third lap, and everyone knows I am coming. Oh well I took off and decided to see how long I could hold out. As it turns out it was about 3/4 of a lap. So I figured I would settle back in, recover, then play antagonist again. I got slotted in near the back of the field and wouldn't you know it a bunch of guys almost went down right in front of me, I tapped by brakes and away rode the field. Another day out in the wind by myself.

Lessoned learned - stay in the front and just play nice. If you get antsy, stay put and out of trouble.

A friend came up after the race and said - "You know if you soft pedal you can just get back in the group a lap down and continue in the race with the field" Ah crits with there own set of rules - the free lap mechanical and letting the pack catch you to ride along. Good tip, but I think I prefer the lone suffering of dangling off the back. It makes for a more effective training ride. Doesn't it?>

So an official My Wife Inc wife did her first ever road race and got the whole experience. She went for and won a prime, hung on the finish in the group, and finally, got some drama from the girl she beat out in the prime sprint after the race. Way to go Mo!!! As far as I know that was the first money earned by anyone in a MWI kit - NICE.

make it fun and enjoy the ride.

Mmmm....

2008-06-27T09:19:00.002-05:00

New Challenge tubulars on the horizon ---> "mud" tire dubbed the Fango, and Whtie file tread Grifo XS.

And Continental is coming out with a tubie this year. Cross is definitely gaining some momentum.

enjoy your choices.

Ahhhh...

2008-06-26T10:27:00.004-05:00

Got some dirt under my wheels. 2 hours of singletrack fun with friends! Boy oh boy did I need it, after my lashing this past weekend...

I pinned my first number on of the year on Saturday and raced a crit. Now criterium races aren't normally my thing, but I hear they will make me faster come cross season. So I have put some on my schedule. I am not so sure about that one though because there is nothing like getting lapped in a Masters 4/5 race to make you feel good about yourself. Yep I was more than just pack fodder, I was fish food. But I didn't crash and I kept on myself to finish the race and pick some guys off at the end - good training ride right?! I was pretty down after that embarrassment, but in hindsight I didn't really commit to the race. Let's see I rode for over an hour at 10 pm the night before, I didn't really warm up unless you call rolling around chating with friends a warm-up, and my pre-race nutrition plan consisted of a power bar and some water. This weekend I am going to take the race a little more serious for my own emotional well being. Proper warm up and all.

Back to the dirt..

Drove down to the Kettles and rode most of my favorite stuff - Emma Carlin and the connector to John Muir. Oh man the connector is so much fun. I was feeling it on the way into the John Muir parking lot, Ross washed out on a climb I passed by him and gassed it all the way into the lot. On the way back I was still feeling good so I kept the pace high all the way. Nothing like the feel of dirt underneath, the sun in the sky, and the smell of pine needles to set your mind straight! I don't even mind the hundred or so mosquito bites I have today, "No thanks, I don't want any repellent!" real smart move.I am feeling refreshed, and refocused. Last week was a downer, but I have let it go and moved on thanks to my wonderful wife who let me go ride by bike on "Family Day"- THANK YOU!

...don't dwell on the past, find your Reset button and remember to use it and enjoy the ride.

Anyone...

2008-06-24T18:57:00.003-05:00

See this:

KLM Marketing Solutions and USAC are currently reviewing the call-up/staging protocol and rules for the 2008 USA Cycling National Cyclocross Championships. The call-up/staging protocol will be announced February 1st, 2008

link

Maybe some KC guys have the info? I like the KLM guys and all, but I was the first registered "B" racer last year for 30+ and I barely got a first row call up, lots of KC guys on the front row.

Anyway mark your calenders Septmeber 15 12am registration opens.

Fear...

2008-06-13T09:47:00.000-05:00

Does it motivate you or hold you back? Is it better to go out in a blaze of glory or stay comfortably conservative? How well do you really know your limits if you never exceed them?

I know for me the mental part of cycling is the toughest. I am content on most days to stay within my comfort zone and play my hand. On the rare occasion that I have crept past the line I have tasted success at the risk of utter failure. Failure haunts me. Mediocracy does not carry the glory of success, nor the pain of defeat, but it certainly isn't gratifying. Is consistency over the long term better than pushing the limits resulting in a complete implosion? Can you really improve and push yourself to new horizons without rocketing past those limits with total disregard for the outcome? I must find a way to turn off the my inner safety patrol that keeps me holding something back "for later" so that I may know what lies beyond the line and push myself to new heights.

...push the limits and enjoy the results.

Creative...

2008-06-12T09:56:00.004-05:00

Jordan's Bike. The sign says it all. Saw this on my ride home from Crystal Ridge last night and had to turn back for a picture. Jordan must have a lot of spare time.

enjoy your rig however you may roll.

Bummer...

2008-06-11T21:25:00.005-05:00

Rode out to Crystal Ridge, aka Wednesday Night the Races course and took some shots of the mudslides.

Southside of skihill.

Westside of skihill climb.

Looking down the climb.

The mudslides caused some major damage. I ran some of the singletrack, most of the water has receded. There is mud mixed with gravel almost everywhere. A lot of standing water in the low spots still and some general debris. It looks like they took a grader to the gravel climb and smoothed it back out some. The climb is on the westside of the ski hill is pretty rough and narrowed a bit in spot. Hoyt Park was still under water in many spots this morning and is going to need a lot of love as well. Everyone who races, trains on, or enjoys the local trails should lend whatever time they have to rehab the trails as quickly as possible.

...do your part so everyone can enjoy the ride

Umm...

2008-06-11T10:20:00.002-05:00

$150 for a Shimano chain ring! ------> Exclusive yes, $150 I don't know think so. I will give them this, they make a damn fine chain ring, quite possibly the best thing coming from the Fishing company's little cycling division.

Everyone has a little guilty pleasure and for us cross junkies it just maybe overpriced "PRO" style - exclusive chain rings, carbon brakes, french tubular tyres, and elusive wheels.

enjoy your obsession...

We interrupt this training session...

2008-06-09T09:45:00.002-05:00

Not going this way.

The "FunCut" not going to be fun for a while.

Golf Course or swimming hole?

Turned back again!

So my weekend training went a little something like this...

Put off riding on Saturday to hand with the family unit. Went out for what as going to be two hours of pain. I was stopped after 15 minutes by a a gentleman with a weather radio "Rain is coming"
Me - "Oh yeah" .
Weather radio guy "No, really severe storms are coming!"
Me - "Okay"
WRG - "They will be here in 5-10 minutes"
Me- "CRAP, I had better high tail it home, Thanks!"
Put the bike in the garage and all hell broke loose! Thanks weather radio guy! I then get a call from fellow MKE My Wife Inc'r asking for a Shop Vac, they have standing water in their basement. The misses comes by for the shop vac and a few minutes later I get another call. They need to get everything out of the basement it is turning into a wading pool. Carpet comes out, everything off the floor, find the numerous leaks bubbling up form the floor - fill the 10 gallon Shop Vac every 2 minutes! They had a long night, it kept raining off and on all night.

Sunday. I went out after work and well you can see the pictures - water, water everywhere!! Lots of people will be drying out for some time to come! The trails are going to need lots of TLC.

be thankful for the dry days...

Anticipation...

2008-06-05T19:28:00.003-05:00

Race rig has arrived!

Well...

2008-06-01T09:26:00.002-05:00

Barely made the top half of the Overall for last Wednesday Night Races. It's tough when you reach the goal you set for the week and end up further down the list. Oh well still pleased with what was accomplished. Knowing that my goals are still months away and hoping these guys are burning out by then. Stick to the plan, trust in the plan, believe in the plan.

It's all just riding your bike...

Just go faster...

2008-05-29T08:52:00.003-05:00

Going into lap two I was feeling slow and starting to think about going into control mode. As I rolled through the stat finish they yelled 22 minutes, that was the same as my first lap last week! I wasn't as slow as I felt so I tried to keep the tempo up. Then two things went threw my head in quick succession.

1. My daughters sweet little voice saying "Just go faster, Daddy" So simple a 5 1/2 year old can grasp it, if you want to do better just go faster. I laughed and thought yep it's that simple, I'll just pedal faster.
2. I thought about playing a Mario Kart racing game with my daughter before heading off to the race and picking a car that had better acceleration and not quite as much speed. I thought it's all about acceleration not just power.

So I whipped up my cadence and chased the rabbits. I started making up ground, the technical sections came easier (I still suck, but they were better). All because I was working on acceleration instead of trying to power through everything. Ahh revelations mid race!! I kept the gas on, the pedals spinin' and cruised through the last laps. I never quite caught back on to the chasers, but my lap times were much better than last week.

Despite felling much worse this week my overall time was minutes faster and my three lap times were very consistent. In fact my second lap was faster than the first despite the eye ball bleeding pace of the opening lap. So another week in the books. I worked on what I wanted, got the laps consistent and I was faster overall. Now I just have to find the leg speed to turn some bigger gears... it will come.

I learned to "Just go Faster" even if you aren't feeling it, sometimes acceleration is better than power and to listen to your children they may just be smarter than you.

savor the small stuff...

Bigger and faster...

2008-05-28T21:18:00.001-05:00

That was the theme this week at Wednesday Night The Races. The bigger turn out and everyone decided to throw down. I'll give you some digital views before I bore you with the details.

The uphill start!

About a mile of this to fight for your spot...

Before you enter the uber twisty singletrack.

No place to pass in the bar snatching ribbon of dirt.

Setting up for climb #2Climbin'. Half way up.A little false flat after the top of the climb (notice the very rare Wisconsin Gravel) before you hit some more twisty goodness.Then you drop back down the ski hill and start the loop over. This is the front side of climb #2.

The laps are only 4.11 miles, but typical of Midwestern single track it doubles back on itself so much that one section is nicknamed "Small Intestine".

This week the turn out was a little larger and we BLASTED out of the gate. No hole shot or pointy end this week. I was about 7-9, I think, going into the singletrack. That first mile after the climb is full out eye popping madness. A mad scramble for position going into the single track. I am still missing some single track mojo, but it is coming along. Stayed with the chasers again until climb #2 and away they went, not out of sight this week. I kept on the gas, inspite of feeling crappy-> strength training doing me in this week? And rolled by for lap 2...