Pimp My Shop

Stopped by the shop yesterday before pushing pedals for three hours. Gravel to intervals to Wilderness. MW, MG and Jeff Bonsall were also out enjoying the day. Riding out to Branched Oak to meet the gathering of the tribe at 1pm. If you're looking to ride out, I am leaving at 11:30 from the Casa de Snob.



Mrs. Snob likes pink. The shop looks better than I can ever remember. Nice work everyone.



"Everything is under control, Sir."



Suburban Bohemian.



Kris working that sales floor magic.



29er ready and able.



Jeff in tears as I leave to ride.

Counting Calories

EBBscale
Originally uploaded by Endurosnob.

Dejay, the weight weenie, sent along this shot. It, of course, happens to be what I will run as well.

Mr. 24 finally got his bike situation ironed out. Now he can relax and start cracking skulls.

Who's riding this weekend?

Listen... Do You Smell That?

Jesse's prognosticated winner for TI is out, but now he's in himself. Nice. (Maybe Marko would like Big Skinny's spot.)

Speaking of Big Skinny, he joined Jeff and I on a quick one gear jaunt through Wilderness last night.

The Pic is Dejay kicking it Old Pueblo style.

Need something to do on the weekend after TransIowa? You can always register for the EnduroSnob Epic. May 6th. 5pm Central Standard Time. (Gotta get the morning ride in.) 50 Riders Total.

Are You In?

Dare I Say, Genius!?!

Creepy Friendy = Genius

Rode through Wilderness this morning. Clocked Two Hours. Back at it again tonight.

If you listen closely, you can hear the race season coming up behind us.

Back in the Game

Last week I was face down in the everyday life but now we're back and ready for Action. For some reason, I got promoted at work, I didn't ride as much as I should and let myself get frustrated by the way the Olympics is covered, but it's all good and the game is back on. (But please, don't show me the beginning of the 4x10k XC relay and then switch to ice dancing for 40 minutes. I like to suffer, but not like that.)

Dirty Kanza entry is away. 50 slots. I am not a fan of the element of chance involved with mailing the entry in, but given how close I am, maybe I should relax. The anxiety does mean that the Epic will be done online. The Rogue Seven won't find there way into this one early.

Got a note from Johnny right before his Quality orientation. I would imagine he was the one orienting them.

Dejay was back in action at Old Pueblo, but from the note on the Swizzle, it sounds like he got some bad information and shut it down too early. Frustrating I am sure. Btw, Dejay is rocking it Niner style this year.

This post was brought to you by Nirvana's "Incesticide." I'm Stained.

Tricks of the Trade

Remember the local "Enduro Debates" we had a few months ago? To have or not to have endurance events? How many? Keep it simple. Make it conform, complicated. Name calling, etc? G-Ted has a nice string of posts going about endurance racing and the latest tackles the subject of XC vs. Endurance Racing. As usual, it's well done. Read it, comment on it, think about it.

Blogging Intertwined: Visit Marko and find that Paddy knows his music. I want one of those shirts!!

If you've got Gold locked up and decided to throw a Method, you better fucking stomp it. (Come on, it's a Method.)

The Palm would have stomped it.

Rise Above

Shout outs all around to the LBC crew. Those guys are all quality so they're probably all eight steps ahead of us and working a plan. I always enjoyed popping out of Wilderness and stopping in for some shit talk before heading up the Rock Island home.

Johnny will be taking off shortly. The Quality at QBP just shot up double digit percentage points and they don't even know it yet.

I've been watching Olympic Bordercross all night. Hard not to want to move back to Cali and hit Kirkwood again and again and again.

The Buzz in the Bloodstream

I visited the shop over lunch yesterday for some ordering and was treated to some good conversation with RockD, Jeff and Butch. I just ended up excited. About what? Well, basically everything.

In Epic news, RockD chatted with our Chadron contact who agreed to lay out a single-track route of whatever length we choose for the race. I'm pumped. Apparently the guy commented that some of the track is a bit rough. Rock told me this and I said, "So?" And he just smiled and I said, "Yeah, I know."

I'm also contemplating using the tech geek side of my life to my advantage. More to come there, but if you are thinking of rocking the Epic, we might be able to give your friends and family some pretty cool updates on your progress.

Btw, Paddy's got plans.

GET RAD

Cool post from Jesse today, it sounds like someone is catching the endurance racing virus.

These cats charged my card yesterday, so stopping devices should soon follow.

I am a bit nervous about the fork. The phrase "Back Ordered" probably alarms anyone whose worked at a shop and is hoping for the timely appearance of parts. Dejay suggested an alternative.

Today's post was brought to you by "Today" by Galaxy 500. Keeping it mellow.

Dead Legs and All

Spent another morning doing the back and forth through Wilderness. Today was solo though as Jeff is a bit under the weather and MW and Sam road to Platte. Saw Kevin, PC and a couple of other cats heading through the park as well at one point. All in all, not to bad of a day.

Anyone else remember that t-shirt? I kept meaning to buy it and never did.

Four Hours with the Rodeo Clown

MW, KW and I spent a nice the morning out of the worst of the wind riding Wilderness for 4 hours today. The 1/4 inch of snow proved a bit slick (at least for me) and I did my best rodeo clown impersonations for Matt and Kevin throughout the morning, including a sterling slip to baseball slide in which sent me slipping along the trail with the greatest of ease.

Great ride though. Jim W. met us about half way through and joined us until near the end. I also had my first experience in poaching a few of the other trials around Wilderness.

More fun tomorrow. Thanks for the ride fellas.

Exhaust Huffer

During the commute this morning, I was getting ready to cross O st, when some cat in a beater Chrysler K car used the right hand turn lane to pass me on my right. Aside from nearly clipping me, he then punched it and a cloud of filth came pouring out of his car just as I inhaled deeply to shout an obsenity at him. The result? A good morning hurl over my right shoulder. Luckily, I had a light breakfast.

Dirty Kanza information is released to the world. Dead Sexy!! I may need to do this and then suffer out the 12hr. Or, maybe we can get some Canadians to hang out for the week and put together 4 of the Rogue Seven for a SS team. (Actually, I think that's a great idea but probably a logistical nightmare for the Peggers.)

Who needs a great ambassador for the sport? Give this guy some love.

Bits and Pieces

That nicely summarizes the current state of things.

Niner. Parts and waiting for parts.

Epic. Planned yet details t.b.d. (including registration, eh?)

Riding for the weekend. Lots of saddle time but not sure of exactly when or where.

Race schedule. Land of Conflicts.

This post. Pathetic.

"I Am a Deeply Superficial Person" - Andy Warhol

Credit, Thanks and Much Respect to Creepy Friendly.

Quit Giving Me the Evil Eye

FascistKiller
Originally uploaded by Endurosnob.

Well, it's only a matter of time before the Fascist Killer gets let up for air and the Niner gets tagged to take a beating. Parts are ordered or decided upon, but awaiting the proper paperwork. (It would have helped if I hadn't lost my debit card.)

Don't worry though, the FK will still be seen in out and about. I plan on putting a huge gear on it, just so my mind can tell me I can while my legs tell me I'm an idiot.

The Fascist Killer, a Mohawk Industries finest. I can't imagine another bike which can prompt my daughter Seven to ask, "Daddy, what's a Fascist Killer?"

The fact that her response to my definition was, "You mean like an evil dictator?" only proves I am already outwitted.

Single Speed Powers: Activate!!

Notes from Dejay

Dejay through this up as a Comment to my last post, but considering it's a novel, mostly written by Rudi Nadler, and a good read, I thought it best to move it to a full post. Word.

yes S.I.R. is in order, after climbing 7000+ft and ripping down hill single-t, the niner is rockin. The ridged fork shocked me at first but then started fllexing a bit, maybe do to the way i slammed it into a rock when i fell during a hike-a-bike, which bent my rotor and busted my knee, here is the full report from Rudi:Where is my mind" The Pixies

Sometimes going over the top really means going over the top. The AFD Society test out a new twist. Not as many miles as last weekends 130 plus mile ride, but equally as long in time with the added twist of miles of Holy Grace Mother of What Have I Gotten Myself Into downhill singletrack. Ride like this make for lounging about on Sunday quite the reality. Mark C, Dejay B. and yours truely met at six am at local Coffee Exchange. David B. tried but had forgotten his shoes, and had to race back home to get them. He'd planned on this ride and was not going to miss out on the foolish fun factor. So three of us left heading down Grant Rd. At Country Club we added another happy member to the days pleasures Matt A. Surprizingly Matt had decided to ride today with just two water bottles and pocket of food. A bit scare, but then after last weeks ride which we covered many more miles the cool temps kept the need of H2O to a minimum. But then it was warm this morning, even for Tucson in the winter. Basically an almost balmy 45 degrees. Last week was a touch cooler 25 at start time.

Hitting Mt. Lemon we had about 30 miles of climbing. No cheating today we were going as far as the road goes. Up to the Steward Observatory. I made the mistake of riding in to tall a gear, and pretty much suffered all the way up. I was happy that Dejay was not on his best so I didn't feel like I was the anchor quite yet. Mark flew off having a great day of finding rhythm after last weeks bonk. A coupl of turns and he was out of sight. Matt was in party mode and just road bunnyrabbit style up down round and round Dejay and I. He was making the climbing look way to easy. About three miles up David showed up. His partner Denise had kindly brought him to us. He really wanted in on the fun. Now the five of us, all on singlespeed continued our way up and up and up. I'll have to admit I seem to need more food on these rides than before. I feel like every five minutes The Hunger comes knocking at my door so I was happy with a stop at Windy Point where the views of Tucson was majestic and mmmmmm mmmmm the cliff bars are tasty. It's funny how I tend to think of Windy Point as the end of the climbing but the miles after always remind me that the next 14 miles can be rather draining. We made a brief stop at the Iron Door Cafe for a regoup and watering and then finished off our last few miles of climb, some of the hardest, to the summit.

Here's when the fun really kicks in. If you have a freewheel. For me it was the land of sphinter tightening forearm busting terror. I'll start right now by apologizing to the trail and mountain for what I was doing on the way down. The earth was so dry and the traction was so minimal that I was surfing more than riding. No good for trails. The boys dropped me as they rolled down and I face steep water bars and switch backs that left me in fixed gear fear. Riding the front wheel after going over steep water bar drops can be done, but I would not call this type of riding graceful by any means. They where kind to me and often waited not far ahead, calling out to me as I struggle bounced and walked this trail which brought us back to the Iron Door where a fit of eating insued. After this was the Red Ridge trail. Last time I rode Red Ridge was at least for years ago and now I remember why. Funny, I had a freewheel last time and and the trial was not bone dry dust and rock. I even thought it was fun. Well, except for the hike-a-bike to Charleau road. If I thought is I was surfing before now it was really true as I again beg the pardon of MTB's everwhere. With my legs locked and my brake on I faced the lack of any traction by shredding trail with skid that was beyond embarassing. Then even walking would have been skidding. Between the fires and the drough the trail was full of downed trees that impeded and impaled ( Dejay) forward momentum. At one point I even found a large boulder to test my thigh muscles. I'll be nursing this bruise for at lest a week.

After the the what seemed like 15 miles of Holy Shit riding we the descending became less tretoruous. The trail offer a new gift. One David aptly named "Hate Bushes." This is the point where the blood and dust began to really mingle. The mauling that took place was unequal to anything I'd experience in the past. Our legs began to glow as the nerve endings in our skin became exposed through the tearing action of the thorns we pedaled through. And it was here that the trail would disappear and reappear with random frequency. Mostly frequency. The 1.5 miles left to Charleau Gap dirt road was a long march. It was here that Dejay, albeit not riding his bike, fell down a pile of rock and bashed his knee and brand new bike up. Well, the bike had to be tested. His pain passed and soon we arrived at Charleau Road. Charleau Gap road is a at times steep, loose, yet more ridable than I fear. Still this three mile climb left us shaking and hungery again at the top. We took a few minutes to consume as only a cyclist can. Food, more food. Water, yes please. Gummy Bears. I must admit Gummys have a sweet place in my heart. Then down Charleau toward Cherry Creek and Catalina. Matt and I found our spirit animal for the ride going down Charleau's loose and steep turns. May the spirit of the Skunk be with you. Today the skunk let us pass without a wiff, just the beauty of his black and white determine body as he too descended the Gap. After one false start, I found the correct turn off to Cherry Creek and led the boys to the singletrack. Sweetest of the ride. While they flew off, was happy to be riding not sliding on this wonderful long and fun descent. Everytime I caught up with them the glow of Nirvana was in their eyes. Nothing better than a couple of hours of singletrack that is challenging and in comparison health to make the suffering on Red Ridge seem like a thing of the past.

By this point we were pretty much all out of liquid, and instead of the heading into Catalina State park we opted to go straight out to Golder road and the convienience store. Did lemonade ever tasts so good. We were at about 5 pm at this point. And we quickly got on Oracle road for a final touch of road riding. Spun out fixie and spinning out singlespeeding down to Ina where I left the boys and headed with my tired, brusied, and bloody body to my parents house for a dinner party.

Postscript: After arriving at my parents, I showered up, and had a glass of wine while waiting for dinner. Thing were going fine till I had my glass filled again. Somewhere around the time of having half of that second glass and getting up for food the alchol and my metabolism kicked in to high gear. While standing in line wait for one of my cousins to put salad in her plate one leaf at a time the world began to spin. I turned vivid shade of green, the darkness swirled in on my eyes. I'm not really sure how I got back to my chair, but when I got there I realized the whole party was staring at me. Well after some water and a large place pasta, meat balls and eggplant, I had quickly recovered. Well except form my thigh. That'll take a few days. Well, see you all at the 24 HOP course.

MmMm, cow Rrose Selavy (Eros, C'est la vie)

Rudi

Wilderness Saves

I spent most of my ride time on Saturday somewhat bored and unmotivated. For whatever reason, the juju just wasn't kicking. Sunday started out the same way but the sunny weather and riding Wilderness seemed to put things right. Empty trails, Sun, brisk but tolerable wind. By the end there was a smile on my face.

In other news, Marko and company kicked ass at the Stuporbowl and I ordered nearly all of the remaining parts for the Niner (credit to Dicky for the call.)

Nothing new to report on the Epic. I will probably throw it up on Ride424 this week, but am not going to jump into spreading the word too hard yet. A little simmering should bring out the flavor.

Mr. 24 and G-Ted took a recon trip for TI this weekend. Should be fun to see their reports.

I wonder how Popshuvit liked the new ride?

Special Delivery

MMMMMMMMMM


AHHHHHHHHHHH


OHHHHHHHHHHH


"A certain degree of neurosis is of inestimable value as a drive.... " - Sigmund Freud.

Art for Art's Sake

Remember in school when teachers would say, "Do what you love" as instruction toward higher education and job-fulfillment? Well, I jumped into that thought process with both feet, ended up with a few Liberal Arts degrees, none of which directly apply to my job.

However, I wouldn't change it. It helps me appreciate it when I find my way via the bike related to links like the following:

Visit the IF Grassroots Racing site, then you can end up at Thom Parsons site and some sweet "SwarthyArt."

Steve Smith, aka the mayor of Drunkingham, has a site I visit frequently from CRC.

Rudi has some really nice work, to be seen via Da Swizzle. (And he clearly enjoys a nice long sufferfest.)

Jesse and Marko also have some sweet visuals in effect. For example, I really like the piece on Marko's site where the girl is holding the boy's heart in her hands.

I am sure there is more out there. Let me know if there is good stuff I am missing.

See you tomorrow. "We'll be talking about Freud and why he did enough cocaine to kill a small horse."

Blogging with Bullet Points

Lots of Additives to report.

I visited Sologoat's Blog last night. This pic speaks to me. Espresso, Chops, Cycling, the Triple Crown of EnduroSnobbery. (Having said that, I guess I need to grow the chops back.)

Added a new header and "How?" Expanded to the Epic Blog.

If you didn't notice, Jonathan Page was 10th at Cross Worlds. Wells may be National Champ, but it would be hard to say Page isn't the best American male racing cross today.

This post was brought to you by The Olivia Tremor Control, "Black Foliage: Animated Music Vol. I."

Starting the Day Off Wrong

What's the best way to start your Monday? A trip to the Dentist. I still can't feel the right side of my face.

The TransWales sounds very cool. (The site intro is also pretty nice.) I think a team stage race needs to be in my future.

Does this read like a sign-off to you? I hope not. I enjoy my daily "lament."

Someone has some cool header action going on. Those are skills I do not have.

Pieces Falling into Place

Good ride today. ~45 miles consisting of primarily soggy, but not too wet, gravel with a nice cast of characters. Rolling hills, friendly dog and an empty missle silo. Everything you need. No pics though, I was concerned the camera might get soaked.

Afterward, stopped by Rock D's for some bike frame eye candy then tacked on a few more miles on the way home. Good day, Great Weather. No excuses not to be ready for April.

I owe Sam an apology. He arrived at the casa at 9am and we left at 8am. Moto Mocha's on me next time Sam.

Pics from AZSS06 are now up on the Swizzle Site. (Yes, I do wish I had gone.) Looks like adopted Lincolnite Cameron Chambers was enjoying the fun.

Have Route - Will Suffer

There's a lot on my mind, but this will be short because DAMN is it nice outside.

Rock and I have a route for the EPIC. The more I think about it, the more I love it. In some ways, it may be a nice bridge between something like TI and one of Mike Curiak's races. (I have never done the latter so some of that is based on description only.)

Route Teasers:

The Bad. We will need to start with a long bit of pavement. I wanted to avoid pavement at all costs, but there aren't a lot of options at certain points. One thing the pavement will do is force a few decisions, which I think is excellent.

The Good. The Course will encourage people to keep pushing themselves based on the way it's laid out. My hope is that it will help people dig deeper into what they can really do. This course will let you do that.

The Ugly (But it's Beautiful). There is a long stretch where racers will be truly on their own. No cell coverage. Your cue sheet, the Wilderness and you. Mom's not coming. However, if you have the heart to get through it, we reward you in Spades.

The more I work on this, the more excited I get. I just hope a few people show up.

Your Gonzo Race Director,

The Snob

2006 - The Year No Schedule is Safe

First things first. Happy Birthday Sam!!!

24 Hours of Landahl in KC. Thought about doing a 24? Now there are no excuses.

Unfortunately, it does conflict with One of the Three Marathon races now on the local schedule:

--May 13-- Battle Royale Marathon @ Platte River State Park, South Bend, NE
--June 10—Ponca’s Revenge Marathon @ Ponca State Park, Ponca NE
--September 16 & 17—Rave in the Cave Marathon MTB Weekend @ Indian Cave SP, Shubert, NE

You can see the rest of the Psycowpath Series information on NebraskaCycling.org.

Map work tonight on the Epic.

Note: I have also just added a post regarding the Spirit of the Epic to the race blog. (12:49pm)

"This one goes to 11."

Back in the Saddle

Did a very odd triple session today. Kept everything short due to my recent bout with the flu. Rode to work then tacked some on for an hour. Rode at lunch with Jeff for a second and then rode home via the shop to replace a broken Sidi buckle for a third. (Thanks Matt.)

I was spending some time on Mr. 24's site today and, in looking at his schedule see a certain Branched Oak 12hr race listed. It will be fun watching Big Skinny defend his title and it will be fun have Jeff flying around the course.

Now if we can get him to wear cut-off jeans and no shirt like Cameron did when he won it, we'd really be rocking.

Soft Pedalling

I can't call it a comeback, but I do feel better. As a few people have pointed out, it's like a blog roll call of people who have gotten hit by some sort of illness. There's a joke there somewhere involving a "virus" in cyberspace, but even I am not that lame.

Speaking of blogs, many of us like to shot some photos and then put them up. Here's a bit from McSweeney's which should probably made us think twice.

Getting a bit impatient waiting for the Taxman to return to me what is rightfully mine. A new ride is waiting.

Funny moment from Sunday. Mr. Bike Shop Owner and I are talking about my pending bike purchase when we went through the creek bed on the South end. As I rode up over the other side, I threw the chain on the Fascist Killer. As Jay passed me I could only smile and say, "Not that I need a new bike." Laughter followed.

Rock D and I are getting together Thurday Night to work on the Route of Pain. I love maps.

I wonder how many signups I would lose if I made people actually navigate?

Snob Down

Nothing like a mild case of the flu to force a bit of rest. I did do a bit of work today but it took twice as long as it should have. Tried to work on the Epic a bit, but the concentration just wasn't there.

Caught by a Team Director

Went out for about 3 plus today. Proved pretty boring until near the end when a certain Mr. Bike Shop Owner pulled up on my left. Good conversation, dropped into Wilderness then paused to help knock down a stubborn dead tree that wasn't about give it up for anything. The chainsaw would take its legs out, but it kept grabbing other trees on the way down. Finally, the tree dropped and we were on our way. Photos would have been great, but the camera just remained in my Camelbak. Genius.

Jesse Lalonde also has a nice logo the KC store could use. If they can race Trikes.

Chalk Up Another Saturday

Low is the level of interesting items or overall moto.

Midwest Trek/VW Squad rocking with local flavor. Nice work fellas.

Dates are now set for the EnduroSnob Epic. Thanks to John Jr. for the Cross Dates so that cross and epics can mix.

Ride Alert. 8am. Snob's House. Rock D is also going out around 1:30 if that fits into your Sunday a bit better.

This post is about the Future.

The Cat's Out of the Bag

So I created a blog regarding The EnduroSnob Epic in prepartion, while I mulled over whether or not I wanted to really make it happen. I didn't really consider the fact that said new blog would be under my profile or accessable within a blogger search and now the word is out:

IT'S ON!!

Already, the support is high.

Rock D has already emailed me a few times today telling me about routes he is looking at on his screen.

Creepy Friendly has also agreed to help with art for the flyers. Now if I can just get he and Marko to come race...

Your friend and Gonzo Bike Race Organizer, The EnduroSnob.

This, That and Your Mother

Kidding.

Someone we know and love has a frame lying around. Is it the IF on the right? Maybe. (No, it's not the Snob.)

For the TransIowa signups among us, JB set up a Frappr map to show where participants are from. Lincoln representing? Not really, I think I am the only one to sign-on at this point. I believe we have the most racers from any city so why not be proud? (Thanks to JB for creating it.)

Lots of clandestine work right now.

Wouldn't fall be a great time for a long ride in Northwest Nebraska with a number plate on your bike?

Trying to Keep my Mouth Shut and Head on Straight

Lincoln is going to have The Link. As I mentioned in a previous post, I have some Snob Rules about what makes a real AR. It's not an AR. It does sound like fun.

It also sounds more like the Bike Shop Scavenger Hunt we had talked about doing for Halloween. (which remains a great idea.)

Here's another item that shows my head isn't on straight. I woke up and rode for a couple of hours when it was ~20 degrees. Then, it warms up to 60 degrees and all I do is commute home the eight miles from work.

Talk about poor planning.

Tattoos in Modern Cycling: Part II

Ira Ryan. Some of you have heard me tell bits of his story before, but I think it's cool enough that it's coming at you via the Snob.

The first frame Ira made, he took to TransIowa last year and won on it. He has a sweet tat and a nicely done website as well. Did I mentioned he apprenticed under Sacha White at Vanilla? Plus, he's got midwest roots and first learned to ride in Indiana, which is where I grew up. (Of course, I moved West and then moved back. What's wrong with me?)

The above and more information above can be found on BikePortland. You can also read a funny blurb with some pics on L'Equipe Veloshop. And, thanks to Guitar-Ted for the original heads up.

I've got an email into Ira regarding deposits and turnaround time. I will let you know what's up.

This post has been brought to you by The Minutemen "Double Nickels on the Dime."

"I Have a Dream..."

Word. If you have five, take five and check it out.

On to far less important things...

The commute to work just got lighter. I now have a desktop machine and can leave the laptop at home. This would have made for a nice commute except I was bucking a nice 30mph wind that was flowing down from Canada.

Loading up the new iTunes. So far, it's been pretty mellow: Galaxy 500, Olivia Tremor Control, Heavy Vegetable, The Shins, Rilo Kiley and I just added an audio cd of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas.

"A job like this needs real equipment and cash on the line."

Punchdrunk Weatherman

Sixty degrees and Sunny in January. I barely know what to say. I feel sorry for Paddy. That man's got heart.

Jeff and Butch discussing hydration after the mass exidous to the ditch.


Dr. Avey in the operating room. Chain Throw to EBB adjustment. STAT.


Jeff gets back on the road and I turn to my bike only to discover a completely flat front. Seems like this gesture is becoming a habit.


Rolling Thunder: KW, Paul C, and Big Skinny.


The Snob Predicts that MW and his really pink bike will finish TI with flying colors.

Cleaning Out the Attic

As I mentioned earlier, I began doing longer rides in the morning before work this week. With these little jaunts being solo efforts, I have found my mind really unwinds after a short while of riding in the quiet.

Here are a few of the things I found under the cobwebs:

I'd really like to put on an "Endurosnob Epic." Would there be a draw? Good question. I think that the act of putting it on would be fun. Tenative thought of starting in Valentine, NE, riding through the Chadron area and back. The jury will continue to dilberate, but I am open to any thoughts folks have.

There seems to be a certain attitude among the people you see out on the paths early in the morning. A bit friendlier. More Core? Perhaps. I've gotten more truly nice hellos in the mornings than at any other time. (Except Bonsall (sp?) who looked at me like I was a serial killer when I waved to him on Wednesday.)

I also started thinking of other races aside from TI. Now the problems is scheduling conflicts.

Cedar Valley is a week before 9 Mile.
Afton looks to be a week before 7 Oaks.
12hrs of Dino appears to be a week before the Soul Ride.

Some of the dates I am using are from 05, but things don't usually seem to change too much so...

A Message from Johnny Cash

Single Speed Outburst

2006 SS Worlds in Stockholm.

Mental Jibberish to consider: Stockholm Syndrome and Single Speed both start with SS. Maybe that's why those who try the One Gear often don't return.

OneSpeeder.com is now added as a reference of choice. Gnomes, Napkin Art and Single Speeding. "Number One cause of Death? Birth." I like it.

During my predawn ride, I made the decision that everything will be done SS this year. Further conversation this morning cemented it. Is this affecting the bike selection for this year? You betcha.

"But what if they get rid of some of the single speed categories?" asks Mrs. Snob.
"Screw it."

More Fun for 2006

Mr. 24 passed this little gem along: 12 Hours of Cedar Valley. $30 bucks, 5hr drive. Calling all Tall Skinny Bastards... Corey? You with Gears? Me without? Check your calendar (Twice) and let me know.

I've loved Canada since I first visited to do a Raid the North event. Here's a reason to return. Sprucewoods 200 Miler. I bet good beer will accompany.

This post would have occurred earlier, but G-Ted put me into my usual Team Over-Analysis mode and I wrote a Hallmark card as a comment to his latest post.

Sunday Sundries

Nice morning ride today. Corey, Jeff and even JK "My IF collects dust" Purtzer went out for a little morning patrol of Wilderness followed by some short gravel love. Further proof arrived that it's time to up the gear ratio when I punched it going up a short, steepish hill and just spun out. Time to chat with the Mohawked Genius. A bit of yoga and fitness ball work in the afternoon and Ahhhhhh.

My Leadville Entry Form arrived today. I deliver a respectful "thanks, but no thanks" to that option. Too many other races which are much cheaper and I suspect better terrain. I am very happy I did it, but didn't get the buzz to make me want to go back.

Beginning 2hr rides before work tomorrow. I suspect the espresso machine will be working overtime this week.

The World of Illusion

Below you'll see photographs which appear to be Cyclists out on a training ride. Do "not" be fooled. These are simply photographs taken to provide the illusion of action and comeradeire. It's all bullshit. None of these cats can ride. They have eating disorders and smell like over-priced European calogne. Except, Jeff who wears Old Spice.

Gathering shots like this require models with excellent track stand skills to create this stills. Tall guys in the back Corey!!


Kevin Burke did an excellent job of scouting location all day. Here we had to back track to recreate this shot of cyclists heading up a Dirt/B Road.


Wilbur, Nebraska is also the Czech Capital of the state. The town provides a Twilight Zone experience in a very positive way, including Czech music playing in the streets daily and a bar called The Czech-red Flag. Here Sam poses to ask, "Are there any bakeries this good in any of the pass-through towns in Iowa?"


A Shot take inside the Wilbur Bakery. For some reason, RockD wanted to be sure we included a shot of his beautifully styled hair. Smelled like mousse.

Single Swizzle 06 Final Warning from Dejay

SingleSwizzleRoute
Originally uploaded by Endurosnob.

"Here it is all you need to know about ssaz06. Friday night the 20th we will be gathering at No Anchovies 7.30ish ( http://www.noanchoviespizza.com ) 870 e university blvd Tucson, Az. From hear we will head back to the Swizzle House (when we are good and ready) to get ready for the 10.30am START!!!! on saturday at Agua Caliente Park ( http://www.dotucson.com/visit.asp?qry=425 ). You can get a map to the house and leave early if necessary. If you cannot make it to No Anchovies email iinfo@singleswizzle.com and we will give you directions to the house.

The weather here has been great lately 70’s plus in the day, but anything can happen. THE RIDE WILL GO ON!!! It would be wise to bring what you may need for up to a 5 hour ride (just in case). Having sealant in you wheels would be a wise idea and spare tube(ssss) is a must. We will do our best to get everyone from the Swizzle house to the park and back. Car pool style. We will have at least one helper station that will be at the top of the first climb (10 mile marker).

After the ride the activities will begin back at the Swizzle house. The mini bike crit race, head to head double elimination, DON’T FORGET TO SIGN UP. Winner takes all. The 2nd Annual Edward 40 Hands Contest will take place as well and what ever else we come up with. If that is not enough for the week following the event mtb rides will be going on daily ending with the Rudi Nadler Epic rudinadler@sock23.com . I had a ride planned on that same day, but Rudi wins this one. Maybe we can do back to back.

Find all other info here http://www.singleswizzle.com/ssaz06.htm

Do not feed the wildlife and please don’t pet the cactus!!!

Head up, Wheels down, Smile on"

** This would make one killer roadtrip.

Cleary, I Have a Screw Loose...

... and the threads are stripped.

Riding to work... Thoughts of TransIowa. Dinner with Friends... TransIowa. And yada yada yada ... TI.

Jesse LaLonde is serving up a bowl of soul cycling style today.

I love Freaks. Freaks without gasoline and matches are better.

Secret Training in the Land of "Nots"

First of all, THIS is "Not" freaking hysterical and this post is "Not" in the spirit it provided.

There will "not" be a ride rolling from Sam-I-Am's casa on Saturday at 8am. Why Sam's place? Why to ensure he actually makes the ride, of course. Think mucho time in the saddle.

That cartoon always makes me smile.

Arizona Trail 300

This race info was forwarded along to me from PopShuvIt. If you feel like raising your game up a notch, maybe the Arizona Trail 300 is for you. Word is just starting to spread on MTBR as well. Looks like I won't need to put on an Endurosnob 400 for us to have our "Triple Crown."

"It was dangerous lunacy, but it was also the kind of thing a real connoisseur of edge-work could make an argument for..." Hunter S. Thompson.

Welcome 2006

2005 left a parting shot by giving me a pretty bad cold, which dealt a blow to the epic ride I had hoped to do today, but Snobbery prevailed.

Corey and I, hacking and running noses firmly in hand, rode to the evil entity and played a game of chess. We then bumped into the mohawked genius on our way home. Despite coming up sick, these two weeks have been a great way to gather some miles and, hopefully, turn things up a notch this year.

Decisions now must be made on what frame will rest under my ass this year. Creepy Friendly seems to be mulling along similar lines. Except a decision about the middle of the month and action to follow shortly afterward. As Marko would say, A is for Action.

2006 is looking good already.

A Final Salute to 2005

My Goodness, My Guinness

Visiting Patrick Humenny's blog today, I found that aside from sharing an enjoyment of a bit of suffering. His post race beer of choice seems to be Guinness.

Because I know Sam enjoys the same fine beverage, I felt pretty comfortable offering up a post race pint.

As a few folks are aware, when my focus was more on the adventure racing front, we began a tradition of drinking Guinness after a win which qualified us for the USARA National Championship. Race for 24hrs, then pour a pint. No better celebration to be had.

Which begs the question, what's your post race beverage of choice?

Two Weeks is a Long Time

There's been a lot of this going around at Snob central lately:

Wake up. Make espresso. Wonder why my machine seems to be pushing out my medicine slower and slower each day. Spend time with the family. Ride. Gravel. Roads. Hills. Good conversation. Return home. Make some food. More time with family. Relax, Rewind, Repeat.

With the riding come some highlights:

Riding with a great group of people Saturday morning who, except for RockD, I have never really gone on a ride with before. Thanks everyone.

Finding a couple of 'B' roads which will provide great tire testing areas for the final decision between the Nano and JonesXR.

Scraping mud off of my tires with a stick so that I could continue the climb up one of the previously mentioned 'B' roads. (And wishing I had brought my camera.)

Wandering into a "luxery" housing development where homes of ridiculous sizes sat perched on hills overlooking the cookie-cutter sprawl of Lincoln's southside. The best part was that a tree house in the development was nicer than my current house. (And again, wishing I had brought my camera.)

Side note: If I ever have that kind of money, I am not going to show it to you and, if I did, it wouldn't be like that. (I might have a couple of sweet bikes though.)

Cool Art, Cool Cause

Rudi Nadler is racing the Great Divide Race in 06 and, as opposed to just looking for handouts, is selling a very cool print in exchange for your support. I'd also recommend looking at Rudi's portfolio when you visit, plenty of pieces worthy of your wall space. Don't have the cash? Get your roommates, take something out of petty cash at the shop, pool your resources and help a brother out.

Merry Christmas Everyone

Finally, There is More on the Kansas Race

This comes straight from Guitar Ted's Blog. Make this man a regular visit. He's always got something good to say:

"This is the event "spawned" by Trans Iowa. It's going to be in Kansas. It's going to be a 200 mile loop through the Flint Hills region of that state. It's going to be SUPER TOUGH!! It's tentative name is The Flint Hills 200. The name may change, so do not bank on that yet. When? Keep May 20th open on your calendars and look for more details soon! I'll post here, or check mtbr.com. "

Time to start thinking about doing the "double."

Now we need the "EnduroSnob 400" for the triple crown of Midwest Sufferfests.

Notes From Dejay

croppedgear
Originally uploaded by Endurosnob.

"Finally proof that geared bikes go to hell. It's to bad that the singlespeeders have the closest seats by the fire.

"Just a month to go to experience the singlespeed!! I just can't ride this trail enough. On saterday a group of us took it for a spin. Starting at 6.30am, it was 24 degrees, but 2 miles into the ride i was all warm. Threw out the ride i was able to take a few photos. I attached a goodie, this is singletrack!, but for the rest go to singleswizzle.com.

"The games following the event are coming together nicely. B.I.C.A.S. the local non-profit bike shop are donating some 12"-16" bikes for the mini short track.
now go for a ride, but first forward this to all that are worthy.
D---- "

"Notes from Dejay" are musings, info and general good vibes from Subaru/GaryFisher's Dejay Birtch.

JonesXR

JonesXR
Originally uploaded by Endurosnob.

What tire would you run for TransIowa? Here's my choice. Thanks for the photo, Sam.

December Heaven

47 degrees, Sunny, No Wind. Can I get an Amen? Off to ride.

Apparently, I Really Am a Snob

When Sam and I were riding yesterday, we discussed his rule to not post on forums. He said he may follow the TransIowa thread though as he wants to do well and pick up what value is there. After visiting today, I think Sam maybe on to something with his rule... jeez.

I have several very good pics that Sam and Dejay Birtch sent my way, but I couldn't get them to upload. I will try to get it sorted as all are of interest and worth a post in-and-of themselves.

In case you haven't looked at the comments in the last post:
Christmas Eve Ride. Snob's Place (bar name?) at 7am. Riding until ~10am. Gravel Grinder heading South. We'll finish on time. No angering the family during the holidays.

I wonder what would happen if I got on the forum and asked if I should "run" chops?

That confirms it, I guess I am a Snob.

**This just in. I checked some other blogs I like and apparently I am also a bandwagon jumper. Crap.

The Draw of Endurance Events

The FolksFromLincoln blog, which is a local portal of sorts for the Lincoln, NE cycling community has an interesting post about bringing more Marathon length races to our area. As most of the readers from this blog are from out of the area, if you have input on how marathons and endurance races have grown in your area, please visit and give your two cents.

Nice ride today with Sam, Mark and Jeff. Good weather, good people, I wish I could have ridden longer. Sam and I were tentatively talking about doing an early morning Christmas Eve ride. If you are interested, give a yell.

Defining "SingleSpeed"

The TransIowa discussion on MTBR has now turned to the matter of what is, or is not, a single-speed. I thought I would bring the discussion to the Snob as well since I think the same dialogue applies to other races and events.

Here's my two cents. Give me yours.

Single is one, which for me begins and ends the discussion. As soon as you start flip-flopping, wrenching or being clever in order to change your gear ratio, you've just shifted. It's no longer a SS. As you'll see from the thread, people have a lot of valid reasons why they might want to change things at some point in the race. The course does this and that, etc. Which is simply another way of saying, "I might decide at some point that I need to shift."

As I was typing this, Mr. 24 just posted the following to the thread: "For all singlespeed and fixie...Show up to the start line with a gear. Run it all the way to Decorah. Simple as that."

I couldn't agree more. What about you? I'm not afraid to admit I am wrong, but you'll have your work cut out for you on this one.

Step On

Weird day today. I think I will chalk it up to the start of a two week vacation.

Rode for only a couple of hours today. 20 degrees. Fairly windy but really pretty comfortable. Planning something similar tomorrow with Sam-I-Am.

Nice crew out at Yia Yia's tonight. I think we were all a little tired from the weekend. Thanks for joining me fellas.

MW is ready to plan it all out and go to Iowa tomorrow. I love his enthusiasm.

Two decisions I have made regarding TI.
1. Go out with the lead group until it stops making sense. (Last year I purposely started in the back.)
2. Not make any stops until Algona. (The halfway point.)

Two Weeks of Heaven

Tomorrow, which happens to be my birthday, also happens to kick off two workless weeks here in Snob-land. I probably could not work for a cooler company. The decision was made that we should spend the holidays with our families, so there you have it. Two weeks of base, no stress and family.

During the two weeks, I'll be trying out a new helmet which was given to me at X-Maxx. (Seen in the picture.)

Corey and I made it about a third of the way to Branched Oak for the Cross race today, but at one point Corey thought his junk was about to freeze off and we called it good.

Lots of TransIowa talk occurring now that Registration is close and Lincoln is representing. If you have interest in cookie dough or over excited mashocisists, visit MTBR.

Riding tomorrow at 1pm. Jeff Avey, I am looking at you.

Yia Yia's at 7pm.

My War at 24

"This one goes out to Johnny."




Inspiration.



Genius at Work.


Happy Birthday, John. Much Love.

Hey Iowa!! Bring It!!

Lincoln will be strongly represented in the TransIowa.

Here's the breakdown:

Geared Hammerheads:
Sam
Jeff Avey
Corey Godfrey
Emily B. (One of Two Ladies)

Single Speeders:
Matt Wills
The Snob

I'm really pumped so many of us got in.

Names of note who are also racing: Mike Curiak, Matt Chester, Nick Martin, and I assume Mr. 24 himself.

GET ON IT!!!

If you want to get into TransIowa, GO REGISTER NOW!!! Thanks Matt for sending me the email. I would have been white hot angry had I missed out because registration opened early. Also, my baby sitter (who by the way rides a fixed gear) said our phone was ringing off the hook while I was at my company X-Mas party. If you guys were trying to give me the heads up, I sincerely appreciate it. I know Sam and Jeff both called and there were other numbers I didn't recognize. Much love fellas.

Let me know if you made it in.

Note: Corey, I got you registered. Merry Christmas.

This is Getting Old

"We Jam Econo"

Good night last night hanging out with Keith Schieron, who works from my company, and also happens to be the guy who produced We Jam Econo: the Story of the Minutemen. What started as a polite work-related affair, which included JK "I have a sweet IF but never ride it" Purtzer, moved one step over to a fun-filled evening of banter. Johnny then joined us to take it up a notch, particularly when we began to point out the homo-eroticism in all of JK's stories about his days as a councelor at a Winona's Boys Camp.

We did also go through the seasonal "You Ride when it's this Cold out?" chit-chat as well. I am sure all who visit the Snob know what I am saying, except for maybe those of you down South. Usually, I find myself giving an explaination along the lines of, "well, with good clothing, yada, yada, yada." Once in a while though, I do want to simply say, "Do people ski when it's this cold? Then Shut Up."

Oh well, the mini-rant is over.

Great weekend on tap: Cross, TransIowa Registration, X-Maxx and Johnny's Birthday.

Not too shabby.

What Would Dejay Do?

MW and I have discussed this a bit in a couple of posts and now it's available for discussion on MTBR; if you are riding a bike Single Speed across Iowa, what gear are you going to run? Thoughts? Opinions? Could the proper gear choice earn you Endurance Cyclist of Year?

What Would Dejay Do?

By the way, predictions from Mr. 24 are that the race fills up in an hour. If you are racing Cross and want to make sure you get registered, let me know. Sam, I am looking at you.

This, That and a Few Others

Remember Brad Cole running neck and neck with Tony W the last time cross was in town? Well, while Tony stepped it up with the Elite Men, Mr. Cole raced Killer B's and won. I think this says it all.

Details just in regarding TransIowa. We'll need to set an alarm for a really early start. Had a nice conversation with Matt W. during the CW Holiday Festivus. He wore the subtle smile of a man ready to ride 337 miles.

Butch has his Cycling Awards up for the year. I would like to add that honorable mention should be the Johnson's return to Lincoln, but that would just leave Butch to buy himself beer.

Need a stocking stuffer for the Hardcore Cyclist in your life? This will scratch the itch.

Good morning. Pass me a cup of Doper's Suck.

This One Goes to Eleven

Saturday Night was the Cycleworks Holiday Party.

The Safety Word is "Pride."



I have to get that out of my mind.



"Just stay out of the way."



Photo courtesy of "JP Photography."



"Wanna See Something?"


The Sparks muffled cries of "Elephant" go unheard.

Notes From Dejay

i'm comin home,

here in this frozen land. Dallas Tx. last night i froze my ASS off(sweat pant, long sleeve shirt, wool socks, inside my sleeping bag, in the rv) I'm only what it feels like, inches(953.38m(13h55m) from the place where i want to rest my head for 2sun rises, that crest the same mountains. Just so I can say i'm home. Dry dessert air, i hear it is cold there.cactus that blocks the sky. rocks that are bigger then, who i'm I. Is this a lesson, that will be learned in time? give me what i can git used to, then it may feel like it is mine. but then again it is all on borrowed time.

only let your thoughts get inturupted with what is artistic

i am Unable to share what i see, as close my eyes

*"Notes From Dejay" are musings from Dejay Birtch, travelling man and Gary Fisher-Subaru Single Speed Endurance Machine.

Welcome Big Skinny

The Snob is quite happy to report that Big Skinny has joined the ranks of Single Speeding, Karate Monkey style. Welcome my friend.

Smallest post yet.

Fast Like Rabbit

Don't blink or this post will be gone. It will be that short.

The man known as Mr. 24 has an interesting question posed on his site. You're going to an endurance race, you can take a stock Full Suspension Frame or a Custom Hardtail, which do you choose?

Visit Jeff and let your inner-geek shine. I have.

Holiday Word Jumble and Quiz

First, let's do the jumble (as inspired by JK).

Fill in the blanks. "- - - - - Claus." Here are the letters: A, A, S, T, N. Your clue: Some kids, and even some adults, freak out when asked to sit on his lap. Answer appears at the bottom.

Now, let's do the Quiz.

If St. Nick was going to come down the chimney with a great gift for your inner bike geek, what would he bring?

I will reserve my answer for later, but because, as Sam points out, my bikes suck. How hard could it be to figure out?

Word Jumble Answer is, of course, "SATAN."

Maybe I should dress as Satan Claus for x-max.

This is Radio Clash

The Clash have been helping me get through my work-a-day morning with the less often play (by me anyway) Sandinista.

Btw, our office closes down for two weeks at the end of the month. Expect to be heckled to ride and expect it to occur often.

Two signs you listen to good music: One, you name your dog Lars and the musical reference isn't Metallica. Two, you reference the song "Let's Go Crazy" and it has nothing to do with "formerly know as."

Decisions Decisions

Despite the cold temps, I had a great ride today. A mix of city trails, some gravel and some snow-covered Wilderness single track. It was the kind of ride that will make you consider a race like the ArrowheadUltra. Of course, you'd really need something like a Pugsley for that kind of snow and I can't see buying a bike like that for one race. I know that Corey and Jeff went out today as well. How was the ride fellas?

I also believe I have decided upon the bike setup I will run for TransIowa. After several conversations with Johnny and Corey, along with reference to an archived DirtRag, I am taking a page out of the book of Eric Roman and going to with the following:

29" single speed mountain bike with cross bars, ~42mm Cross Tires. Gearing is a touch up in the air, but 36/16 doesn't sound unreasonable. However, it will not be "really fucking pink."

Saturday in the Snow

Enjoyed a snow ride today, with a brief stop at Cycleworks to chat with Johnny. Good times and warm toes. Now if I could take care of my hands, I would be set.

RockD sent my a link to the Ouachita Challenge, which I think I will simply call the I-Chi-Wah-Wah Challenge. Good price, reasonably close and Mr. 24hr Jeff Kerkove appears to plan on attending. (In fact, his site may be what tipped the Rock off to the race.)

If you're feeling fast, you can always go after the $500 Time Record Reward. Who's got the current mark, you ask? One half of the two-headed hydra of "Sameron", adopted homeboy Cameron Chambers.

Also, our Lincoln "Man on the Scene," again brought huge smiles to my face with his coverage of the UCI Cross Race in KC. If you haven't heard them yet, check them out.

"Okay so Tony is sitting on this guy's wheel... Hold on ... COME ON, TONY... GO GO GO GO ... Tony's just jumped around this guy and came flying to the line..."

Nothing but love. Thanks CVO.

I have your Swizzle right here!!

Your SingleSwizzle that is.

More from Dejay on the SS ride in AZ in January. See the "Link of Interest?" Glide your mouse over and 'click.'

From Dejay: "Some folks (industry style) have come out to support the ride. So far this is them...Respect... WTB, Genuine Innovations, Specialized, Crome, Surly, DT Swiss.

Now that the course is posted you know what your in for. The first 10 miles is on pavement(most of the climbing) going up the Catalina Hwy. Very senic!!! One of the reasons you ride a singlespeed is because you don't like to shift...HERE IS YOUR CHANCE.

After the little climb you will be treated to some of the best singletrack out there. That is if you like single-singletrack that weaves it's way down mtn sides, through grassy valleys and ridge lines. There is a part of the ride that come back on it's self about 3 miles, this is in the grassy valley. So if there is still traffic going both directions it should not be a problem to get out of each others way, or hi five as you ride by. This will round out at about 40 miles and it looks like we will have 2 aide stations. One at Prision Camp and one on top of the climb at Redington Rd. So dollar for dollar this is the best supported ride you can do...OH YEAH IT'S FREEEEEE!!!

If you have never done this ride you are in for one hell of a treat, I hope you like to smile alot. The desert is an amazing place, and all will be fine as long as you resect one another. "

Couldn't some of us meet up with Butch and do this? Hmmmm.