Let's Pedal

Dream a little dream!

2010-09-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

While I have not been an active blogger lately, It is not without reason. First off, I have not been on the bike too much lately! In early August, while on a ride with my two brothers and my nephew, my brother Nick had a pretty nasty spill resulting in my calling 911 from my cellphone while he lay unconcious in the street. We were moving along pretty well (18 - 20 mph) in Rochester when I heard the carnage behind me. Lo and behold, it was Nick who apparently went over the handlebars and landed on his head. No doubt for the doctors in Boston that he would have been expired had he not had a helmet on. Luckily, he was wearing a helmet and still experienced about 5 minutes of "lights out" before coming around. At any rate, I have been running in preparation for the Newport Half Marathon since then and have not been focused on the bike. The Rochester Time Trial series is over for the season, and while I did not get to participate as often as I would have liked, it's over and that is another reason I don't need to be training on the bike.

One thing is for sure and that is Fall is here! My favorite time of year and when I seem to log the most miles commuting to work. My trusty single speed is adorned with the necessary lights and bags, the mornings are crisp and cool, and my winter cycling clothes are out of the attic! So, in addition to training for the Newport half Marathon on October 17, I have to start riding. While I didn't think that my brothers crash had any impact on my at first, it's not like me to stay off the bike for four weeks. That's how I know it affected me. Either way, I have a complete SRAM Force group on its way to me which will no doubt stoke the fires of my enthusiasm! Nothing like some shiny new cycling bits to get the motor running! While the racing bike awaits its new bits, I will experience the simplistic joy of my home made single speed commuter bike. Nothing brings me closer to childhood than humming along while enjoying the sights and sounds all around me. It's a great departure from the racing bike where the focus revolves around average speed and heart rate! The single speed has gained a permanent sweet spot in my heart.

Wish me luck, I'll see you out on the road.

Tony Kornheiser is an Idiot

2010-03-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

Once in a while, someone comes along with comments that are so ignorant, so idiotic and so detrimental, that it is truly amazing. Such is the case with ESPN's Tony Kornheiser recently. After just coming off a suspension for moronic comments regarding his fellow ESPN anchor Hannah Storm, he decided that a good way to warm the hearts of listeners would be a 5 minute rant on cyclists. This guy needs to be removed from the air. I can only hope that Lance Armstrong makes this his focus for the next few weeks resulting in Tony not only being removed form the airwaves, but left discarded by the listening public.

Take a listen here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7wnBoWOfAU

Once you have been thoroughly disgusted and amazed, you can voice your opinion here: http://www.espn980.com/info/contact_us.php

Dog Update

2010-01-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

Is it too much to ask? I just want to ride my bicycle to work without the underlying fear of having a dog chew through my calf before I get to my desk, which was almost the case yesterday morning. I rode to work solo yesterday which I don't mind aside from the fact that I know this dog is going to come charging out with full intentions of ruining my morning, and that is exactly what happened. About a mile from my office and right on cue he came charging out, teeth bare, looking like he just spotted his breakfast. I did have pepper spray, but as I was wearing mittens, lacked the dexterity to use it. I outran him and made it to work where I promptly called animal control and left my 54th message on their machine. A ritual I have gotten quite used to over the past 4 years. I then spoke to a co-worker here that also moonlights as a cop in the town. Apparently I am not the only one who has had problems with the this dog, and the story goes that the owner could care less. I'm picturing a sterotypical episode of cops where the cops bang on the door of the trailer and the guy answers the door in a stained wife beater still smelling of last nights bourbon.
Fast forward to yesterday afternoon, I'm riding home, pepper spray in hand, and I see the dog setting up for my arrival. About 200 yards away I see him dash from the comfort of the double-wide, down to the street. Hearing the old western gunfight whistling in my head I grasp my pepper spray and ride towards him. Out he comes, I slow down and soak his face to the point where it reminds me of an old soupy sales comedy routine with a seltzer bottle! His eyes close, he stops in his tracks, and runs off into the abyss.
Off I ride wondering if the owner would load up the gun rack in his 72 Ford pickup and come after me. He didn't.
The Animal Control Officer called me back this morning and were very nice. She is going to take a ride out to the house today and talk to the owner(s) which I hope does some good. I just hope the guy doesn't invite the Officer in for a bourbon!
I'll let you know what happens.
Ride safe!

College Connections

2010-01-25T13:35:00.000-08:00

Today I got an Alumni Update from Green Mountain College which I where I studied Fine Arts for 2 years. This months Student Snapshot profiled a woman by the name of Ruth Larkin who is a student at Green Mountain. Her blog details a recent project where she decided to give up the car for an entire semester. If you have ever been to Poultney, VT, that's a pretty lofty goal!
Check out her blog here, it's a great read.
Thanks Ruth, ride safe!

New llight and tires update

2010-01-22T11:06:00.000-08:00

So the ride home last night was awesome. A bit chilly yes, but it was so nice to be back on the bike. I rode the singlespeed yesterday and tried out the new tires and rear light. I have had a Princeton Tec Swerve for a while and it's a great light but the reliability has been questionable. Roger still uses his and last night it cut out more than once after hitting a bump. I don't want to question my tail light while I'm riding home on country roads in the dark. If your tail light goes out, chances are you won't realize it. That's why light/reflective clothing and reflectors or very important!
My new light is a RadBot 1000 which I had never heard of until I saw it at the Cycle Center of Stamford in Stamford, CT which is where my nephew works. WOW, is this thing bright.

Where as most bicycle tail lights have used a 1/2 watt LED, the Radbot 1000 uses a 1 watt Japanese LED which is the same bulb used in the tail lights of new cars. Yes, it is that bright. A couple other selling factors for me: the price was about $29 which was comparable to most other lights, nice big reflector in case the light was to stop working (which has not been an issue), and the 3 mode button on the light is easy to use, has a solid feel, and provides three modes - slow flash - slow/fast flash - and steady. It also comes with multiple mounting options.

On to my new tires! I have had 700 x 23c tires on my singlespeed which are nice high pressure tires but not exactly appropriate for commuting in the off-season. So, I ordered up a pair of Michelin Tracker hybrid tires:

I had been looking for a tire that met certain criteria including...
high pressure (80 psi or so), flat protection, reflective sidewall for commuting at night, and a comfortable tread that was aggressive enough to work well if I wanted to travel dirt roads/paths.
These met all my needs, and the 700 x 35c size fit comfortably in my Schwinn Le Tour frame with room to spare.
So far so good. Nice comfortable and quiet tire that can handle changes in conditions.

And for what it's worth - I am still loving my ToPeak Bags, Rack and Trunk Rack. There stuff is really well engineered, well made, and a pleasure to use. I absolutely love it when stuff just works!

Ride safe!

Cold!

2010-01-21T08:49:00.000-08:00

It was sometime last year when I rode my bicycle to work when the temperature was right around 15 degrees. An adventure yes, but also very taxing on the body!
This morning it was in the mid to upper 20's and aside from an underlying fear (or call it a heightened awareness) of black ice, I was rather comfortable and ecstatic to be riding. Roger and I met at my house and were bundled and pedaling by 7am. It was my first ride on the new tires (Michelin travelers 27 x 35c) and my new tail light. Reviews and photos to follow.
I have not been on any sort of regular cycling schedule for about 6 weeks and it felt great to be pedaling again, even if it was a bit cold. My only missed call this morning was that my core started to get a little overheated while my face and fingers were still chilly. The clothing is always a developing science.
Tonight should be fun, I'm looking forward to the ride home.
Check back soon for photos and reviews of the new tires and the new tail light. From the research I have done, it is the brightest tail light on the market. Yes, even more so that the SuperFlash and Swerve.
Ride safe!

Making nice with drivers in Toronto

2009-11-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

After tensions between cyclists and drivers grew over the summer, cyclists in Toronto took the initiative to improve relations on the road. After the tragic death of a bike messenger on Toronto streets over the summer, something needed to be done to calm fears, and work to ensure that cyclists are seen in a positive light. The Toronto Cyclists Union came up with the "Cyclists Paving the Way" campaign which has proved successful in calming increasingly volatile relationships between motorists and cyclists. Click here to check it out.

Ride safe!

My Route

2009-11-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

Yesterday turned out to be my first real night commute of the season. I left the office with my buddy Roger at about 5:00 and it was already pretty dark. Armed with headlights, tail lights, and various reflectors on our bikes and clothing, I feel pretty confident that we're visible to traffic on the dark country roads we travel.
Here is my typical commuting route on mapmyride.com
I do have a few variations, such as starting out down County Road from my house and taking Marys Pond road up into Rochester center. That adds about 5 or 6 miles which is nice to do when I have the time. Another option is to turn left onto Mattapoisett road, and then cut across Wolf Island road which cuts about a mile or so off the total distance. The issue there is that Wolf Island is dirt and can be a little challenging on the road bike.
Anyone else ride a similar route, or have any ideas? If so we'd love to hear them.

Thanks, and ride safe.

Patrick

Justice!

2009-11-03T06:03:00.001-08:00

Physician convicted in cycling case
November 2, 2009 | 3:52 pm

A physician accused of deliberately injuring two cyclists by slamming on his car’s brakes on a narrow Brentwood road last year was convicted Monday of assault with a deadly weapon, mayhem and other serious criminal charges.

The three-week trial of Dr. Christopher Thompson drew close attention from cyclists, many of whom viewed the case as a test of the justice system’s commitment to protecting cyclists.

Thompson, wearing a dark blue suit, bowed his head as the verdicts were read. He faces a possible prison term.

Prosecutors alleged that on July 4, 2008, Thompson stopped his car after passing the two cyclists and shouting at them to ride single-file. One cyclist ran face-first into the rear windshield of the doctor’s red Infiniti, breaking his front teeth and nose, and leaving his face scarred. The other was sent hurtling to the sidewalk and suffered a separated shoulder.

A police officer testified that Thompson told him soon after the accident that the cyclists had cursed at him and flipped him off, so he slammed on his brakes “to teach them a lesson.”

Thompson, a veteran emergency room physician, testified that he had never meant to hurt any of the cyclists. He said he and other residents were upset at unsafe cycling by some riders along Mandeville Canyon Road, a winding, five-mile residential street that has become an increasingly popular route for cyclists. But they had struggled to identify problem riders.

Thompson told jurors that he stopped his car so that he could take a photo of the cyclists he had overtaken and believed he had left enough room for them.

Prosecutors alleged Thompson had a history of run-ins with bikers, including a similar episode four months before the 2008 collision, when two cyclists told police that the doctor tried to run them off the road and braked hard in front of them. Neither of the riders was injured.

-- Jack Leonard

Canal Ride

2009-11-02T13:13:00.000-08:00

After our initial plans were foiled on Saturday by Halloween madness, I committed to taking my ten year old for a long ride on the Cape Cod canal on Sunday afternoon. He has been wanting to take a long ride with me for some time and I feel that it's time for me to make the kids a regular part of my riding plans if I want them to share my passion for cycling. I feel pretty fortunate that they want to ride and I need to foster that!
So, Sunday afternoon at 1:30 I grabbed the bike rack from under the porch, removed the leaves and spider webs, and secured it to the car. THen spent the next 20 minutes running around like a mad man trying to get my sons bike and my bike on the car, tires pumped up, bottles filled, "where is my helmet?", "Should I bring a vest?" For a family with most every cycling related item under the sun, it takes us too long to get out the door.
By 2:00, we were riding. We parked under the Bourne Bridge, and headed left down towards the train bridge across from the Maritime Academy. My son wanted to make sure that we rode from end to end. No short cuts here! So we rode to the closer end, turned around and rode the full 7 mile length of the canal - which in case you are wondering, requires that you enter the parking lot and ride through the marina in Sandwich before turning around and heading ALL the way back to the other end back in Bourne.
Before we arrived back in Bourne at about 3:30, he made it known that he will not be done when we reach the end! Mind you, it is getting colder, and I'm now picturing us in Sandwich navigating the canal in darkness. I made a deal that we ride another 4 miles total bringing our mileage for the day up to 23. He seemed content with that but let me know that I was in no way off the hook.
23 miles for a ten year old is a pretty decent accomplishment in my book. I don't ever recall riding that distance when I was that age. Of course, he is on a TREK 1000 and I believe I had a striking yellow Schwinn 3 speed at that age.
We arrived back at the car with enough time to get home, clean up, and get to Grandma's for dinner. I finally convinced him on the car ride home that he should be proud of himself and he agreed. I later found out that this was really a test ride for him as he wants to ride the 25 mile course in the Connecticut Challenge next year. I will be with him every mile!
Ride safe.

Riding with the kids.

2009-10-30T05:43:00.000-07:00

The beautiful weather was certainly not the reason for my commuting by bicycle three times this week. Tuesdays ride home was wet, Thursday was nice but the morning ride was cool and damp. This morning was pretty nice I must say, but not a week that makes one think that bicycling to work is the most appealing alternative to driving.
At any rate, I rode to work on Tuesday, Thursday (by myself) and again today. It's nice to come home at the end of the day and walk into the house with my bike gear on. I like to think that I'm creating a positive influence for the kids to see me riding the bike to work.
My 10 year old had been bugging me to ride with him so on Saturday I am taking him to the Cape Cod canal for a 14 mile ride. I'm looking forward to it and I think we will have a great time. He loves to ride and I know that he would ride more if I made the effort to ride with him so that's my goal. I'm not one for New Years resolutions - but riding more with my kids would be a good one! In this months bicycling magazine there is a great article by Joe Kurmaskie (sp?) who wrote Momentum is your friend which is a fantastic book I read a couple years ago. In this months Bicycling article, Joe talks about riding 3000 miles with his wife and 3 kids. A great read that I found to be just the motivation I needed to get out with my kids on the bikes.
Not that I'm going to pack up the kids and head up to Canada but I can certainly get them over to the Cape Cod Canal for 15 miles or so.

Quick little addition to this post - make sure you check out this 84 year old woman that does the MS ride on her singlespeed. Don't miss the fact that she wears a dress and heels!
See ya

This week in commuting!

2009-10-29T05:38:00.000-07:00

Again this morning I crept around in the dark of my bedroom trying to properly dress for a cool/damp commute without waking up my sleeping wife. The right cycling clothing can truly make or break my time in the saddle, and when it's cool and wet (or even raining) the clothing is even more important. My ride home on Tuesday was certainly wet, but I was warm and comfortable none the less.
I am still riding my road bike while my singlespeed sits unassembled and un-painted in my cellar. The singlespeed will be my dedicated commuting bike throughout the winter but until it's done I migrated my headlight, tail light and seat bag on to my LOOK.
As I rode this morning the roads were still a bit damp and covered in leaves and pine needles. My thoughts bounced between pure appreciation that I can ride my bicycle to work on a fall morning, and sheer terror that my skinny 700x 23c tires would betray me on the wet leaves. I have been on the lookout for some good all-weather 700c tires that I can use on my singlespeed - let me know if you have any recommendations!
There is certainly something about riding in less than ideal conditions that appeals to the true cyclist in me. Heading out into cold wet darkness on a bicycle is one of those rites of passage for a cyclist. It also adds many dimensions to an otherwise generic ride - such as having to be more alert of traffic and weather conditions, dressing properly, and the overall feeling of taking pleasure in something that most folks would think entirely miserable. Of course, they probably haven't tried it!
Ride safe!
Patrick

A little online shopping

2009-10-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

While I greatly respect and enjoy the relationship that I enjoy with my local shop (Tri Town Cycling in Wareham, MA), there are times when I come across a deal on the web that is just too good to pass up. Usually something that I may not need, but will certainly use and would not otherwise buy.
With that in mind, there are certain sites on the web that are based solely on blowout pricing. While you will not get the advice, expertise, and comraderie that you enjoy at your local LBS, you can wind up with some pretty sweet stuff without killing your budget.
One of my favorites is www.bonktown.com. Bonktown is part of larger operation that runs similar sites for skiing, skateboarding, mountain biking, etc.
I have installed the bonktown deal tracker on my machine that pops up every now and then with the most recent deals. This page also shows some deals from those other partner sites which is pretty cool.
Again, certainly you wont enjoy the benefits of your local shop, but if you see something cool and want to save a few bucks, go for it!

Peace!

Patrick

And now for something completely different!

2009-10-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

In addition to all the sexy race bikes, mountain bikes, and latest trends in commuter bikes, I love to see folks who write their own rules when it comes to their bicycle. I came across this blog posting recently and thought it worth sharing. As I post this my singlespeed sits recently stripped and naked in my basement. The possibility of that bicycle being covered in fur or being attached to a manikin just went up.
Check it out here

While you're at it, check this out. I have always been a car lover and this is just amazing!

Enjoy!

Patrick

Google Trike

2009-10-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

Now this is pretty cool! Google now has a "street view" camera on a bicycle that will be used to film street views on Google Maps for bicycle trails, bike paths, etc.
Check out the article and make sure to cast your vote for your local trail!

Rites of Passage

2009-10-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a fantastic article on bicycling.com which looks at 109 of the things that make us cyclists. I got a kick out of #81 in particular!

81. Explicating your training in exquisite detail on a blog, then realizing nobody cares.

If you can think of anything creative they may have missed, post it here - we'd love to read them.

Ride on

Patrick

Building a Bicycle Friendly Community

2009-09-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

A great piece by Bikes Belong on how Boulder, CO worked to become a truly Bike Friendly community.
Click here to watch

When Worlds Collide

2009-09-17T07:24:00.000-07:00

Here is yet another article By Bob Mionske telling of another unfortunate incident between a cyclist and an automobile. This one unfortunately ends in a most tragic and senseless loss of life. Read the article and try to remain objective. Then, head on over to YouTube and watch the videos including actual video of the incident as well as interviews with some witnesses. I find it ironic that Michael Bryant (the driver), a rather high ranking Canadian politician was the one involved. Why?
Among his targets as the provinces top law enforcement official, were street-racing motorists. In 2007 he gave the police the power to seize and destroy cars modified for racing even if no charges were lodged against their owners.
After describing such cars as being as dangerous as explosives, he said, “We will crush your car, we will crush the parts.” So this is a guy who admittedly finds cars to be as dangerous as explosives.

Read on and ride safe, I'd love to hear your opinions.

Click here for the Bicycling article

Click here for one of the YouTube Videos. There are several!

Fall

2009-08-31T13:43:00.001-07:00

While Fall is no doubt my favorite time of year, it unfortunately signals the end of summer which I also like! So, to somewhat ease the transition into the colder months (which really don't start until December) I start to fill my calendar with things I can look forward to.
This past weekend, I grabbed my Cannondale commuter off the rack and started the lengthy process of getting it ready for the fall and winter commutes. I don't know how much longer I can safely keep that bike on the road before I either dump money into it, retire it, or just continue to ride it with a sense of foreboding doom in the back of my head at all times. The front headshock is blown out, the brakes are dicey and the rear suspension feels somewhat less than perfect.
At any rate, I cleaned it up, lubed it, replaced some reflective tape, made sure the lights work, and cleaned all the old power bar and Jelly Belly wrappers out of my ToPeak trunk bag. She is ready to roll!
Tomorrow, I'll be riding in with Roger and Bill - perhaps I'll take the old girl for a spin to reacquaint ourselves?
Another item on my Fall to-do list is the Manchester, VT half marathon on Spet. 12th. I did the Providence, RI half marathon in May which was great! I trained diligently for that one and my body thanked my by allowing me to walk normally the day after the race. I apparently inspired some friends who invited my to do this race in VT so I agreed. Like I said, I love to have things on the schedule that I can look forward to. I have hardly trained like I did for the race in May, but I did get 9 miles in this past weekend and felt good. Saturday night, there was talk about training for a marathon in 2010 which I would love to do, but my conclusion is always the same. Training for a marathon is going to require a serious commitment that will no doubt cut deeply into my time on the bike. So much for the marathon. Maybe I need to put a double century on the calendar. Any takers?

C.I.C.L.E.'s Bicycle Lifestyle Guide

2009-07-30T13:01:00.000-07:00

Bike's Belong posted this link to C.I.C.L.E.'s Bicycle Lifestyle Guide which I found pretty cool. I'm always interest in what people and organizations are doing to help make bicycles more a part of our every day routine, as well as inform and educate non-cyclists on how to help make us all safer on the roads!
Check it out here.

Connecticut Challenge

2009-07-30T06:15:00.000-07:00

In 2002 I rode my first Pan Mass Challenge, an event which I rode faithfully for 6 straight years. During those 6 years I raised over $15000 for the Dana Farber Cancer hospital - the very hospital where my mother received treatment for non-hodgkins lymphoma a few years ago. I gave up the PMC in 2008 when I no longer felt comfortable trying to raise the $4000 fund raising minimum. Although, I still have my kids involved in the local PMC for kids events.
Fast forward to this past February when my 16 year old nephew asked if I would like to ride in the Connecticut Challenge with him. He has been at the first day finish line in Bourne each year I rode the PMC and always wanted to ride. So, given that the CT Challenge only involved a $750 fund raising minimum, I signed up to ride.
The CT Challenge was this past July 25th and while it is a smaller scale than the PMC, it is no less effective, heart warming, fun and certainly no less challenging! My nephew had never done a century so our plan was to sign up for the century and bail to the 75 mile route if necessary. Well... at the 35 mile split, it was clear we were only riding 75 that day. The 100 mile route involves nearly 10,000 feet of climbing. We had a blast and my nephew Patrick was a trooper. The course was challenging, it was hot and humid, but we still had a blast. Like the PMC, the riders, volunteers and organizers were all great. Everyone coming together for a cause while having a great time in the process. All aspects of the day from parking, registration, route marking, rest stops, they were all well run. Especially when you consider that this event is only 5 years old. There were 29 cancer survivors that took part in the event, and the morning started with all of them being led by 11 year old boy.
Together, my nephew and I raised about $2000 which supports cancer survivorship programs.
I'm already thinking I will do it again next year, it was a great day and the massage at the end of the ride didn't hurt either!
Click here for more information on the CT Challenge

A visit from Entourage

2009-07-16T05:23:00.000-07:00

So, Kevin Dillon and Jerry Ferrara of HBO’s Entourage stopped by the Putter Studio recently so we posted about their visit on scottycameronblog.com. The reason for my re-post is that they took an apparent interest in Scotty's collection of old Schwinn Krate bicycles. When I first met Scotty in 2001, I didn't know much about golf, but we did connect on bicycles! Scotty is a collector of many things and classic bikes is just one of his passions. I thought this photo was worth sharing - something about an old Krate with a banana seat never fails to bring us back!
Enjoy!

Madsen Cycles

2009-06-30T05:39:00.000-07:00

I'm not exactly sure what I would do with one of the MADSEN Cargo Bikes, but I find something about them very appealing! The thought of riding around on a bicycle with that much cargo capacity intrigues me and makes me want to go buy groceries, pick up some mulch, and then pick up the kids before heading home. I certainly don't need one any more than I need some of the 7 bicycles I already have, but somehow I always find a reason to ride them all!
Check them out, maybe you need one too!
PO

Kancamagus Highway

2009-06-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

There are certainly times on a ride like we did yesterday when everything comes into question. Why am I doing this by choice? Why do my knees hurt, they don't usually? Am I drinking/eating enough? Is this almost over?
Monday night after work we headed for the Mt. Coolidge Motel in Lincoln, NH which is amazing if you need a place to crash in Lincoln. It is right off the highway, and may be the cleanest motel I have ever stayed in - seriously! Dennis, who owns the place, couldn't have been nicer and even let us keep the cars at the motel while we rode, as well as use the showers when we returned. (Thanks Dennis!)
Roger and I got to Lincoln around 9:30, checked in, and headed over to the Woodstock Inn and brewery in Woodstock, about 3 miles down Route 3. We met up with Kent and Matt, two of the guys we were riding with the next day. We all had a beer waiting for the rest of our 8 guys to show up. The beer menu at the Inn is great, and the menu has a little something for everyone. We hung out until about 11 and headed back to the motel.
Our plan was to be on the road by 8, which we were. We got up at 7, packed the cars, ate, and made all the last minute decisions about what we "need" to bring based on the forecast, etc. I tend to be on the safe side and wore a long sleeve base layer under my jersey while stuffing a vest and arm warmers in my pocket. The vest came in very handy on the 45 mph descents!
The 78 mile loop we did is a great way to do the ride. Roger and I had done it last fall and we knew what to expect. There was some discussion as to what direction we should do the loop and we decided on the same way we did it last time. We did the Kancamagus climb to start the day. It is the hardest climb of the day (not the steepest) so we got it out of the way early. We also figured if the weather got worse, we would rather not be on the pass in the rain.
We rode up Kancamagus Highway and over the pass. Turned left onto Bear Notch road, left on 302 which is where the steepest climbs are (although they apparently only 9% grade that was enough for me!). We then turned left onto Route 3 which is a long, gradual climb that eventually leads to the bike path. The ride pretty much ends on the bike path which is the best way to end this ride. It is a few miles of a winding path through the woods which I find to be more like a video game than a bike ride. It is very fast, very twisty, and VERY FUN!
The ride itself went great. There are some times when it's challenging and personally tests my will, but overall it is a great ride and a real test. We were lucky enough to have no (serious) mechanicals, no flats, no crashes, and no health issues!
Our final high-speed descent led up right into the parking lot of the Coolidge Motel where we took showers, changed, and then back to the Woodstock Inn for lunch.
Overall it was 77.62 miles, we had about 4:40 of riding time, 5,500 feet of climbing, averaged about 16 mph, and I hit a max speed of about 45 mph on the last descent coming back into Lincoln.
Details of the ride here (from Matt's Garmin)
All in all a great ride with a great group of guys.

Tri Town Time Trial

2009-06-17T05:47:00.000-07:00

The Tri-Town Cycling Time Trial is gaining a tremendous amount of popularity of late. Every Tuesday at 6:00 PM, we gather to ride the 14.08 mile course. Every rider type from casual riders on hybrids to full-blown TT machines averaging 27 mph show up to work towards beating their personal best. Last night, I did NOT beat my personal best, but always have a great time showing up, hanging out with a great group of riders, and getting in a great workout. I am back on my LOOK as the Specialized Transition I had picked up in hopes of a miracle proved to be a fantasy after all. I never felt entirely comfortable on that bike out on the course and feel that I will be better served by again adding aero bars onto my LOOK for when I ride the TT.
So, if you should be so inclined, head over to Rochester on a Tuesday night and come ride with us. Click here for a map of the course. The start is at the ball fields at the intersection of Mary's Pond road and Route 105 in Rochester. If you have questions you can call Tri Town Cycling in Wareham at (508) 295-1123.
And as always, thanks to the guys at Tri Town for helping out every week with the timing, wrenching, etc!

May is Bike Month

2009-04-30T06:26:00.000-07:00

The League of American Bicyclists is promoting May as National Bike Month with May 11 - 15th as National Bike to Work week. Not really sure who designates these months to begin with, but I'll play along. Click here for more info on Bike Month

Another great initiative for bike commuting is Team Wonderbike which is a great initiative from New Belgium Brewing (brewers of Fat Tire). SmartWool is another supporter of the Team Wonderbike initiative. Click here for more info in Team Wonderbike. Make sure to watch the cool video on that page!

Enjoy!
PO

Great Article by Bill Strickland

2009-04-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

Whether you shave your legs or not, Bill Strickland from Bicycling magazine has some great insight into the subject. Click here to read on...

Oakley Stroller

2009-04-27T06:42:00.000-07:00

As the father of three young kids, I have done my fair share of shopping for baby "stuff" over the past ten years. Once in a while, something comes along the truly breaks the mold and strikes me just plain cool. While looking for some new Oakley glasses, a Google search brought up this bad boy.

My youngest being five, it's not really something that I would invest in at the moment, but I figured you guys would all appreciate seeing it. Whether or not you like it, you have to admit, it's different!
I did look on the Oakley website and apparently is is just a prototype. Not sure whether or not Oakley even had a hand in it, but I thought it cool none the less.
Click here for some more photos.

Bring on the riding weather

2009-04-24T10:10:00.000-07:00

Let me start this by stating that I spent 4 days last week in Scottsdale, AZ where I was spoiled by hot sunny days followed by warm nights spent on the patio enjoying family and good beer. Upon my arrival back in Providence, RI on Monday night, we were welcomed by high winds and rain that made our entry into Providence airport a similar experience to the tilt-a-whirl at the county fair. I went from warm happy and relaxed, to cold damp and pissed off in the same time it took me to get the car out of the parking garage. It has been cold, damp, rainy and windy for far too long!
While in AZ, I went for a hike with the wife and kids, swam 3 out of 4 days, and went for 2 great runs. I would have loved to bring the bike but it wasn't in the cards this trip. While running, I did see about 50 people out for their Sunday ride and found myself rather jealous of every one of them.
Fast forward to this morning where I had plans to ride in to the office with two friends of mine. I woke up on time, had my clothes all laid out to save time, and the forecast was desirable. I was actually pretty excited! That was until I went downstairs and looked at the thermometer - 38 degrees. Damn it!! Back upstairs, break out the leg warmers, the long gloves, to warmers, hat, jacket, etc. It is supposedly improving outside at the moment, and I am anticipating a warmer ride home than I had this morning.
Where am I going with all this? I'm not sure really. I guess seeing that it has been 220 days since it was 80 degrees was an eye opener for me. I like to be outside! I like to ride my bike, run, hike, sit outside, etc. I grew up here and I most definitely have New England in my blood, but at the same time I find it hard to be inside 6 months out of the year.
Anyone else share my frustration to the extent that I do? I mean, I really don't see myself staying here if my outlook doesn't improve. The crappy weather takes a larger toll on my mood each year and it's only getting worse.
Is riding my bike in shorts and a short sleeve jersey really a privilege reserved for 3 months out of the year? I like to think not?
Either way, I'm looking forward to my ride home on the single speed!

Single Speed Debut

2009-04-01T05:38:00.000-07:00

This morning at 7:00 am, was the maiden voyage (of any significance) on my Single Speed Project. Last night I gave it a quick once over, attached the Topeak rack and trunk bag, and picked out some clothes that would make the 30 degree commute somewhat comfortable.
After spending a good deal of time stripping down this bike, painting and rebuilding it, I constantly questioned what I would be left with when all was said and done. Well, I couldn't be happier! The bike itself is an early to mid 80's Schwinn LeTour with nice steel tubing. It rides like a dream! A few miles into the ride I let Roger take it for a bit and he agreed. Something about the steel frame, the absence of any gears, and not having a computer to answer to made the ride a very enjoyable experience.
I'm hooked. Roger mentioned converting his steel Bianchi into a single speed, which I thought was a great idea! I imagine I will spend quite a bit of time on this bike, and commuting seems to be the perfect fit for it. Not once did I long for a gear change, although our commute is pretty flat. FYI, the gear ratio is 39/16 which seems perfect to me, I have no plans or reason to experiment.
So, all in all a great first ride and a new love in my stable of bicycles. If you have the means, I highly suggest picking one up!
Ride safe,
Patrick

Facebook

2009-03-11T05:25:00.000-07:00

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2009 RIdes

2009-03-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday the weather once again teased the road bike out of the basement and out on the road for a great 12 mile ride serving only as a tease before the next wave of cold and snow hits later today. It was a great ride, and served as a reminder that it is time to get the bike ready for the season which is creeping up on us, just not quickly enough. I dropped off my single speed project bike at Tri Town on Wareham on Saturday for some TLC, and when my new cranks and bottom bracket arrive for my road bike I will get that dropped off and geared up for this season as well.
When riding on Saturday with my brother I started to casually map out what rides I want to do this year, which depends greatly on what rides I can fit in, and what fits in the schedule of a father with three children!
I am signed up for the Connecticut Challenge which I am riding with my nephew Patrick. He has been coming to see me finish the Pan Mass Challenge for years and the CT Challenge will be a perfect opportunity for him to take part in a very similar ride, as well as get his first experience with fund raising. The ride takes place right around where I grew up in Fairfield County Connecticut which is a beautiful area and I'm pretty psyched about it already.
I am also planning on riding the Naragansett bay Wheelmen's Flattest Century in September which I have done for the past two years. That's another great ride, very well supported and attended. I love that one.
Harpoon Brewery (brewers of my favorite beer) sponsor the Point to Ride rides of varying distances which I would love to take part in, but I will be unable to ride that due to scheduling. That one is high on my To-Do list and hopefully next year I can do it.
In addition to these, Tri Town cycles in Wareham will be doing their Sunday morning rides at 9:00 am which I will ride when possible. We are also planning on riding the Tri Town time trial series at 6:00 pm on Tuesday nights. Last year it was a 14 mile course, the course for this year is TBD but will most likely start around Rochester center and could even have 2 mileage options. We had a lot of fun last year. That series brings in everyone from total beginners, to seasoned experts.
All this, as well as commuting to keep the legs in shape during the week. If you guys (gals) are doing any rides in the area, or know of any great group rides that we should be taking part in, leave a comment and let us know.
Thanks, and let's pray for some good weather!
Patrick

Nike +

2009-02-27T09:55:00.000-08:00

Connecticut Challenge

2009-02-26T13:05:00.000-08:00

After riding the Pan Mass Challenge for 6 years (2002 2007), I opted out in 2008 due to the extraordinary fund raising minimums. It was a huge void for me in 2008, and I felt that I was missing out on my opportunity to do something good for the world!
This year I have registered for the Connecticut Challenge. The CT Challenge gives anyone interested in raising money for a good cause the opportunity to do so without having to worry about being on the hook for $4000 in fund raising minimums.
I will be riding with my 16 year old nephew, and I am already totally psyched to ride, and to see how much money we can raise for those fighting cancer, as well as all those brave survivors out there.
Anyone interested in riding with us, let me know here on the blog. All the info on the ride is available here
Or, if you would like to contribute to my ride, you can click here
Thanks everyone, ride safe!

Stuck in a rut

2009-02-26T05:39:00.000-08:00

Liz DiFebo - a writer for Bicycling magazine - recently posted a story which I found not only entertaining, but as I sympathized with her, I also took some level of comfort in knowing that I'l not the only one that often finds it hard to get back in the saddle.

Click here to give it a read, no doubt we've all been there.

Back on the bike

2009-02-10T12:39:00.000-08:00

Well, our original goal was to commute on the bikes at least once every month in 2008, which we did. Unfortunately, January just didn't work out for us and for one reason or another we never rode the bikes to work last month (January '09).
Tomorrow it's back on the bike. I have clean clothes in the locker downstairs at my office, the bike is ready to go, I drove the route last night on my way home and aside form a bit of water, some new pot holes, and ocassional ice - I think we'll be fine!
While I have not been on the bike, I have been running to train for the Willow Tree half marathon in Providence which is coming up on May 3rd. I was never much of a runner but I have been slowly building up mileage over the past couple years and I think I'm actually starting to enjoy it. I still prefer the bike but the running is a nice change of pace. So, tomorrow I shouldn't be too sore, although the bike seat may take some getting used to after a month off the bike. We'll see soon enough.
Ride safe and keep warm!

My New Topeak Goodies!

2009-01-23T04:35:00.001-08:00

I think it must say something about my life when I look at the things I now get excited about. This past weekend, my brother presented me with a new Topeak Beam Rack, Trunk Bag, and Seat Bag. He is pals with one of the guys over there and hooked me up with some deals. The Topeak stuff is really high quality and well designed product. Not exactly inexpensive, but from what I can tell, seems to be worth the price. At any rate, I was very excited!
The Beam Rack has a built in rubber bungee that seems pretty durable and keeps you from having to worry about how you're going to hold anything onto the rack, as well as all sorts of attachment points for additional bungees, lights, and panniers. It attaches securely to the seat post with a solid, well-engineered quick-release, and they include some rubber pads to ensure a tight fit between the rack and seat post preventing any swaying. It also works with their Quick Track attachment system which allows Topeak bags to slide right on and lock in quickly and easily. The Beam Rack I got is the V-type which angles down and away from the seat post putting the rack closer to the rear wheel and giving you more space for the rack. Another very cool and functional idea.
The Trunk Bag is also rather cool and full of features, as well as being well made. It fits nicely on the rack, attaching on the QuickTrack of the Beam Rack. They offer several sizes but this one seemed to suit my needs fitting a change of clothes and the basics when I commute. It is a semi-rigid shell with a zippered top and sides, and a bungee attached to the top allowing you to quickly stow a jacket, vest, etc. If I was to carry my laptop, I would still have to wear a backpack, but I try to avoid that!
Again, I don't think these are a bargain necessarily, but certainly seem to be worth the money. The under-seat bag uses their quick release system which I love. I now have the quick release portion on the seats of 5 of my bikes, so when I ride a different bike, I just unclip the bag and move it from bike to bike. I keep one bag outfitted with Mtn. Bike tubes, tools, and another one outfitted with road bike tools, tubes. The bags also have an expansion zipper giving you some extra room should you want to jam something in mid-ride.
I can't wait for the roads to clear somewhat so I can get back on the bike and start using this stuff regularly. The trunk bag also has a shoulder strap so once I get to the office I can throw it over my shoulder and head up to my office!
Happy Riding everyone

Color Choices

2008-12-08T05:34:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I put the final coat of clear on the frame for my single speed project bike. As much as I tried to keep the fumes out of the house with a huge fan placed in front of the bulkhead doors, when I got upstairs my children looked to be a bit glossier than usual. Perhaps my efforts to blow the fumes outside were not as successful as I had hoped. At any rate, now the assembly begins and I need some input. My friend Gary has suggested a white seat, and white handlebar tape, and that is what I had in mind all along. I already have the white seat and handlebar tape so that theme fits in nicely with my budget as well!

Now, I have been planning on using a set of 700c wheels that I have at home for this bike, but closer inspection of the original 1980 something wheels on this bike show that they are 27's. Apparently, I may have some issues with the brakes if I try to use the newer 700c wheels? Who knew? So... this all leaves me with tires choices. Assuming that I can use the newer 700c wheels on this bike (and get the brakes to work), do I go with Orange and black tires which would match the paint? Or, do I go with solid white tires that would match the seat, bar tape and chain? I think that white tires look pretty rad on a bike of this type anyway!
Let me know what you think. Orange or White?

Click "Post a comment" below and let me know your opinion.

I'll be dropping the bike off at the shop pretty soon for final assembly. Cant wait to see how it rides!

Thanks.

PO

Photos of my Single Speed project

2008-12-04T05:48:00.000-08:00

Einstein was a cyclist!

Not sure what it is I liked about this anatomy drawing. Just thought it was kind of cool I guess.

One of childhood heroes Stu Thomsen! As drawn by Bob Haro (another childhood hero)

"MAN SIZE"

Cycling quotes were the idea early on, which later evolved into adding weird clipart.

Muddy Commute

2008-12-04T05:24:00.001-08:00

I'm really not a miserable person! I like to think of myself of quite positive. I kept repeating that as Roger and I slogged through the mud on our slick tire equipped commuter bikes getting colder, dirtier, and more exhausted and frustrated. The commute started out quite nicely. We left the office a little after 5, the weather was in the high 30's, and it was a nice clear evening. We thought that to change things up we would seek an alternate route home which I love to do. We set out down the Fairhaven bike path - a route we know well - and followed that down to Mattapoisett Neck road where the bike path ends until they continue the project. We crossed Route 6 and worked our way over to North St. and then into the Industrial Park in Mattapoisett. We knew that the bike path has been cut, but not paved, and can be a bit messy, but we took our chances. Less than halfway down the 2.5 mile stretch things turned bad. Deep puddles, mud, leaves, mud, mud, and more mud. DEEP mud! The tires on my commuter are 1.25 inch slicks with 80 pounds of air pressure. Not exactly the recommended setup for mud. It became similar to surfing on a popsicle stick. Nearly impossible to even keep the bike moving forward. I found myself working harder and harder as we went slower and slower. Most of my energy seemed to be eaten up just trying to keep myself from falling over into a dark wet smelly demise. I even started to bitch and moan at one point, but somehow found my center (my inner Brad if you will). By the end of the path, we were covered in mud, the bikes were trashed, and I was ready for a hot meal and a cold beer. The boys got a kick out seeing me all muddy and thought it was pretty cool. That was until I took my booties and shoes off. The booties smell somewhat like walking past a dumpster behind a Denny's Restaurant on a hot summer day. Not sure how I'm going to handle those, not to mention what it is in that mud that could smell that bad? Not sure I want to know really. I do know that I'm keeping my distance from that part of the bike path until it is paved, plumbed and dry! Now how to clean my bike? (click here to see the complete route)

Commuting

2008-12-03T11:46:00.000-08:00

For about 5 or 6 years now, I have been commuting to work with 3 or 4 other guys from my company here in Massachusetts. It has always been a fair weather affair, but this year we have taken it to another level. Two of us anyway!
My buddy Roger and I both converted old mountain bikes into commuters. I took my 1993 Cannondale Delta V 2000, added some WTB Slickasaurus tires, an old NiteHawk headlight, a ToPeak Seat and Bag, and finished it off with a Princeton Tec Swerve Tail Light. The tail light was the most important part of the bike from my perspective as that is how people see you at night. I had a couple of tail lights kicking around the basement but once you see a really good tail light on a bicycle, you realize what a difference there is. The Swerve is BRIGHT! I did a lot of research on the web, read a lot of posts from bike commuters around the country, and it came down to either the Swerve or the Planet Bike Superflash. For me it came down to the fact that the swerve was easier for me to turn on and off with gloves on, but I found them both to be equally as bright.
So far, I have seriously enjoyed commuting in the cold and dark. Last week it was about 18 degrees when we left the house, and that was pretty darn cold! I had a wrap around my head but nothing on top of head besides my helmet and about 5 miles in I developed a nasty headache. I have since picked up a great Sport Hill running hat that fits great under the helmet and pulls down nicely over my ears. I wore it this morning and love it. Of course, it was only 30 degrees when we left this morning.
I am going to keep up commuting for as long as I can this season. I just hit 1200 miles on the bike this season and provided the roads are clear, I'll keep riding the bike to work once or twice a week. Dressed properly it's quite comfortable, and it's like a bonus workout!

Single Speed Project

2008-12-03T11:21:00.000-08:00

This past summer when the cycling season was in full swing I got the idea in my head that I wanted to build a single speed. Not quite sure what possesed me, I just thought it would be a fun project. I first set down some ground rules such as - I had to find a donor bike for free, and I would spend as little money as possible, which I looked at as part of the challenge.
As luck would have it, I found a pristine late 80's Schwinn Le Tour in my mothers basement which I quickly brought home, stripped and repainted. (photos to come I promise)
Well, I have since gone completely off the deep end on the paint job which originally was inspired by the old Ford GT 40 race cars of the late 60's - that cool light blue, orange ad black combination. All of which I found in spray cans at Lowe's i might add!
I then ordered up some decal paper and went to town. That's where I am at the moment. I need to clear the frame and fork and then of course, put the thing back together. I have the best of intentions, and consider myself a decent mechanic, but I wont hesitate to drop off the complete project to my local bike shop should the whole thing venture outside my comfort zone. I know my limits!
I'll take some photos tonight and get those posted.

Back in The Saddle

2008-12-03T11:19:00.000-08:00

It was about 30 degrees when I got on the bicycle this morning to commute to work. As I rode the roughly 12 miles that lead me to the office I got to thinking that I should get back to blogging about cycling and my love for the sport. I have been riding bicycles as long as I can remember and while I have been through every fad, phase and boom, cycling has always played an important role in my life. My kids are going to start racing BMX on Cape Cod this spring, and I am as excited as a kid on Christmas. I have many fond memories of the time spent on my BMX bike as a kid, and I hope will carry on to my kids as well.
So anyway, that's my inspiration. Stay tuned.

Jan. 30th

2006-01-30T06:23:00.000-08:00

So, last Friday I received the seat binder for my new LOOK frame that I ordered from Excel Sports. Saturday morning after taking the boys skating, we stopped at Tri Town and dropped it off with Mike in hopes of riding my newe bike later that day. Well, I must say I love when a plan comes together because I went back at 2:30 and picked up not only my new LOOK, but a Trek 1000 WSD (Women's Specific Design) for Kimberly.
First things first. My new bike is unbelieveable! I am often accused of going through bicycles like most folks go through socks, but it seems to keep me happy, and riding which is important. The new LOOK is awesome. To me, it gives a ride as stiff as aluminum with the smooth comfortable ride of carbon. I love it.
The Trek 1000 for Kimberly was also very well received! After a long decision process and much research, Kimberly and I are both happy with the decision. Se was initially set on a mire upright straight bar (mountain type handlebar) type bike. I convinced her, along with some research on the web, that she would be better served in the long run with a more traditional racing style bicycle.
Hayden is next as he spends a great deal of time on his bicycle and his Wal Mart Schwinn is a bit small. Hayden has his eye on a nice Redline at Tri Town for his 5th birthday in March. That will be bicycle number three that we have purchased from Tri Town.
All hail the Local Bike Shop!

Welcome

2006-01-27T05:37:00.000-08:00

So, I figured it would be a good idea to start a cycling blog rather than clogging up my supposed family blog with all of my cycling stories. Today is January 27th and I returned from our sales meeting in Orlando, FL 2 days ago. The weather was beautiful. Each year I get out for some golf which is nice, but I always wish I had brought the bike. I figured that after being away for a week I was safe in stopping by Tri Town (my home shop in Wareham, MA) to pick up my bicycle. I picked up a LOOK KG 451 frame in November and dropped it off to be built up sometime in Early December. Well, it was not done. They are STILL waiting on the seat binder bolt? At any rate, in frustration I went home and had Excel Sports in CO overnight one that I should receive today. My plan is to ride tomorrow if the weather cooperates which it is supposed to.
While at Tri Town I checked to see that the Trek 1000 I have my eye on for Kimberly was still there, which it was. Kimberly has committed to joining me on the first leg of the Pan Mass Challenge this year. All 110 miles and $2,300 worth! I hope to get her to the shop tomorrow so she can try the bike on for size. This will be my fifth year riding the Pan Mass Challenge and I am looking forward to it already.
Anyway, stay tuned and let me know your comments.