Today is my daughter's birthday. Happy birthday sweety! Also being the end of the month I was looking at my mileage totals, and as I said in January, I don't have a monthly goal but just like then I noticed it was well within my reach to get a nice round number. So today I took advantage of the nicest weather in a few days to get a quick 19 miles in. I started at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse and headed west. I zigged and zagged a bit over to Meek Rd and took it to Sewell Rd where I jumped back on Evergreen out to Glencoe Rd. I traveled south on Glencoe Rd to Harewood then worked my way over to Cornell Rd. I went east on Cornell to Brookwood then to Evergreen and back to my starting point. It was easier to ride it than it was to describe it! ;-)
The weather was great. It was mostly sunny, in the low 50's, and probably a 5-8 mph wind that started out from the SW and ended up from the NW by the time my ride was finished. It was a good ride.
I was going to take a little video with the helmet cam, pretty snow capped hills, sunny weather and all.... but alas, the batteries decided to die. Make note to self, carry 2 spare AAA batteries if video is important!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........19................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=...........605
Mar total.....659.....+........41.....=...........700
YTD...........1142....+.......663....=.........1805
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Snow, hail, rain, sun, ......and 54 miles
What a mixed bag today was! I drove through a snow shower getting to the meeting point this morning. It was cool, in the mid 30's as we looked for excuses to delay our start. We were a group of about 12 that divided right from the start into the "fast group" and the "slow group", though those designations are certainly subject to interpretation. I thought it was better for me to struggle to keep up with the fast group.
We took off towards Mountaindale. Before even getting there two of our group split off towards the hills saying something about Logie Trail and Skyline as they peeled away. The remaining 4 of us continued on our way, running a solid 18-19 mph until we began climbing that "almost imperceptible" hill heading up to Snooseville. As we made our way up we experienced our first hail shower of the trip. Having spent my whole life around here I knew that if it was raining anywhere it would be raining in the Mountaindale canyon. The bike pansy crawled out of my bike's rear bag and parked itself on my shoulder. It didn't take long for it to convince me that I did not need to go all the way back to Snooseville. With about 3 miles to go I turned around and made my way back to the now closed Mountaindale Store........ all the while getting pelted with hail on my cold cheeks and nose!
I waited under the store's porch for the others to return. It didn't take long and they were back there too. The cold and wet were getting to the group so we decided to take a reasonably direct route back to our starting point, Longbottom Coffee. As we pedaled into North Plains the sun came out. (probably more correctly, one of the hit or miss showers was not currently over us!) The group was going to get back to Longbottom's with about 35 miles, not enough for me today. I peeled off and took a different path. I had to do a bit of "sight seeing" to get my goal and ended up traversing some roads more than once, but did end up with just under 54 miles.
Here's the route I took.
When I finally made it back to my pickup the temperature was 45, not bad at all, but before I got out of there it was hailing mixed with snow and rain again. The temperature dropped to 36 by the time I drove out of the parking lot. Welcome to Springtime in Oregon! The Coast Range was beautiful with all the snow. I was too busy pedaling to take any pictures today.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........54................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1123.....+........663....=........1786
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
We took off towards Mountaindale. Before even getting there two of our group split off towards the hills saying something about Logie Trail and Skyline as they peeled away. The remaining 4 of us continued on our way, running a solid 18-19 mph until we began climbing that "almost imperceptible" hill heading up to Snooseville. As we made our way up we experienced our first hail shower of the trip. Having spent my whole life around here I knew that if it was raining anywhere it would be raining in the Mountaindale canyon. The bike pansy crawled out of my bike's rear bag and parked itself on my shoulder. It didn't take long for it to convince me that I did not need to go all the way back to Snooseville. With about 3 miles to go I turned around and made my way back to the now closed Mountaindale Store........ all the while getting pelted with hail on my cold cheeks and nose!
I waited under the store's porch for the others to return. It didn't take long and they were back there too. The cold and wet were getting to the group so we decided to take a reasonably direct route back to our starting point, Longbottom Coffee. As we pedaled into North Plains the sun came out. (probably more correctly, one of the hit or miss showers was not currently over us!) The group was going to get back to Longbottom's with about 35 miles, not enough for me today. I peeled off and took a different path. I had to do a bit of "sight seeing" to get my goal and ended up traversing some roads more than once, but did end up with just under 54 miles.
Here's the route I took.
When I finally made it back to my pickup the temperature was 45, not bad at all, but before I got out of there it was hailing mixed with snow and rain again. The temperature dropped to 36 by the time I drove out of the parking lot. Welcome to Springtime in Oregon! The Coast Range was beautiful with all the snow. I was too busy pedaling to take any pictures today.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........54................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1123.....+........663....=........1786
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Another snowy morning!
Well sort of. I was scheduled to meet a group of folks and ride about 30 miles this morning. As I pulled into the meeting location at 9AM my pickup told me it was 34 degrees. I could see the snowflakes falling. Sometimes more rain, sometimes more snow, but definitely snow. (if you look carefully you can see the flakes against the tree)
At a half hour after our scheduled meeting time I was still the only one there. Hmm....didn't look good. I decided to bag it and headed towards home. I didn't make it far before that little voice in my head started trying to shame me into riding. "You are already here" it implored. "You have your bike along" it continued. "You've got appropriate clothing for the weather" it said, putting the pressure on me.
I hate it when that little voice does that to me. I pulled into the Groner School parking lot, pulled my bike shoes, jacket, and helmet out of my bike bag........and packed my "bike pansy" feelings back into the bag.
It was a bit chilly as I prepared to ride but once on the road was not as bad as I expected. I made a 25 mile loop.
Parts of the route were not the best for riding, non-existent shoulders, busier than I prefer..... but all in all a good ride. The sun poked out a few times and when it shined on the snowy hills around it was beautiful. No snow on the ground in the valley but it didn't take much elevation at all to be white.
When I got back to the computer I see that an email came in from the organizer canceling the ride because of weather 3 minutes after I posted my "I'll be there" this morning and logged off.
They missed a "ducky day" :-)
I ride again tomorrow with a group of serious riders. Triathletes, iron man competitors, bike racers. ........and me.
I won't be the only one on that ride...... but I may be the only one bringing up the rear of the pack!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........25................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1069.....+........663....=........1732
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, March 28, 2008
Raising funds for the Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund
Brett Jarolimek was killed October 22nd,`07 when a truck "right hooked" him as it turned right and failed to yield to a bicycle in a bicycle lane (violation of ORS 811.050 ) The driver of the truck, who had a horrendous driving record, was never cited. The failure of the Portland Police to cite the driver was/is perplexing to many.
In an effort to make something good come out of this tragedy Bike Gallery, where Brett was an employee, and the Bicycle Transportation Alliance have teamed up to establish the non-profit tax exempt Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund to promote bicycle safety. More information on the purpose and goals of this fund may be found HERE
Today it was announced that there will be a fund raising silent auction and raffle to benefit the fund. Please consider attending and supporting this effort. You may also make a tax deductible contribution directly to the fund via PayPal.
Or if you prefer to donate by check:
1) Write your check to:
Bicycle Transportation Alliance
(in notes field write "Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund")
2) Mail check to:
Bicycle Transportation Alliance
c/o Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund
PO Box 9072
Portland, OR 97207-9072
Bike Gallery has pledged to match first-year contributions towards the fund, up to a total of $10,000.
*********************************************************************
Official Announcement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Portland State University Cycling Team and Bike Gallery Team-up to Raise Money for Bike Safety Education.
Portland, Oregon- May 1, 2008, 7 pm .The Portland State University Cycling team, in conjunction with the Bike Gallery, is hosting an event the evening of May 1st, 2008, to raise money and raise awareness for the Brett Jarolimek Memorial Fund, created in the honor of a dear friend, Portland resident, cyclist, and artist, Brett Jarolimek.
Money donated to the memorial fund will help 1) enhance motorist awareness and education, 2) enhance the awareness, visibility and education of bicyclists, and 3) enable bicycle safety infrastructure projects on a selected basis.
The free event, which will be held at Downtown Bike Gallery, located at 1001 SW 10th Ave, Portland, will host a raffle with contributions from Signal Cycles(signalcycles.com) and Veloforma (veloforma.com), two Portland area bicycle frame companies. A silent auction will also feature local art, and donations from local businesses. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share their ideas for bike safety campaigns and projects.
Free beer, wine, and food will be available, with catering provided by Rebekah Bellingham of Sugar Beets (www.goodfoodtoeat.com) and vegan chef Aaron Adams.
To participate or find out more about the raffle, along with a complete list of donations, visit:
BrettJarolimekMemorialFund.blogspot.com
Contact:
Eric Tsai
Portland State Cycling Team member
BrettJarolimekMemorialFund@gmail.com
*******************************************************************
I haven't been on my bike much this week, a combination of rain, SNOW (again today!) wind, and a good dose of bike pansy were to blame. That will be remedied both Saturday and Sunday when I have plans to ride with some folks.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today............0................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1044.....+........663....=........1707
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Just doin' my part
I have some reservations on the effects that the new green bike boxes popping up in Portland will have. Specifically, I think many will believe that unless there is a green box a cyclist can not legally be in that position. Many riders, me included, believe that the safest way to ride in the city is to be visible in the lane, not invisible along the right side door zone/truck blind spot/hidden by parked cars bike lanes. I ride the bike lane when I feel it's safe to do so but am not hesitant to ride the center of the traffic lane when I feel it's appropriate for safety. Oregon Revised Statute 814.430(2)(c) allows for that.
That being said, green bike boxes are being installed and if they are there we all need to know the proper way to use them.
It's been cold and windy with some rain the last few days. We even had snow flakes this morning! However I couldn't justify being a bike pansy any longer. Late morning the weather brightened up a bit and the roads got a good blow dry. I road from Wilsonville and made my way to Champoeg Park where I road a loop to the south.
It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, cool, but not miserable.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........34................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1044.....+........663....=........1707
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
That being said, green bike boxes are being installed and if they are there we all need to know the proper way to use them.
It's been cold and windy with some rain the last few days. We even had snow flakes this morning! However I couldn't justify being a bike pansy any longer. Late morning the weather brightened up a bit and the roads got a good blow dry. I road from Wilsonville and made my way to Champoeg Park where I road a loop to the south.
It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, cool, but not miserable.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........34................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1044.....+........663....=........1707
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, March 24, 2008
Just out sightseeing
This afternoon I took advantage of what is predicted to be the last dry day this week and took a little sight seeing ride. I rode from Wilsonville and rode a 10 mile loop to Stafford and back then crossed under I-5 and rode an 18 mile loop to Sherwood and back. Both routes involved riding some hills and roads that weren't as bike friendly as they could have been. That's what I get for just riding with no plan! It went well however, low mid day traffic helped.
I'll keep my fingers crossed for later this week. A friend wants to ride but we both have busy schedules and with the crazy weather (snow predicted below 1000ft on Wednesday!) it's a little up in the air at this point.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........28................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1010.....+........663....=........1673
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I'll keep my fingers crossed for later this week. A friend wants to ride but we both have busy schedules and with the crazy weather (snow predicted below 1000ft on Wednesday!) it's a little up in the air at this point.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........28................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD...........1010.....+........663....=........1673
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Mosier Twin Tunnels and Rowena Loops
Ah, it was a great day to be on bikes. The promise of a cloudless sky on the east side of the Cascade Mountains was fulfilled. Three of us, (out of 8 who expressed interest!) showed up in Hood River this morning. It was a frosty 29 degrees at home this morning but had warmed up to the mid 30's by the time we got to Hood River. There was a pretty brisk wind blowing from the east. We bundled up and shoved off into the wind and climbed the first hill from downtown Hood River to the Mark O. Hatfield trailhead where we accessed the carfree section of the Historic Columbia Gorge Highway.
The hills were noticeable but not insurmountable. We'd stop from time to time when a photo opportunity would present itself, like this one of Memaloose Island, a former burial ground for Native Americans.
We were a little concerned over the possibility of ice in the damp and shaded portions but it ended up not being an issue. We cruised right along. There was plenty of testosterone to go around as it seemed that every uphill presented an opportunity to see who could hold pace the longest. ....and of course the downhills were just plain fun!
(photo of Rowena Loops)
We pass a few islands in the Columbia River, here's a photo of Chicken Charlie Island. Wikpedia has some information on the island. The island, and the home on it, are for sale. Take a virtual tour!
We arrived at The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, our turnaround point and stopped for a little breather, a snack, and a good pull on the water bottles (as well as a visit to the sandbox!) before turning around and making our way back.
On the way out as we blasted down the Rowena Loops we noted the marker for the location to earn King of the Mountain points and the pink polka-dotted jersey. Here are Terry and Shawn giving it all they've got in a sprint to garner that coveted jersey!
You will have to ask them which one got the jersey!
We made our way back to Rowena Crest but did not stop as we cleared the summit then began the fun and fast run down the west side towards Mosier. At one point we were surprised to see another rider gaining on us. We were just coasting but we were moving very quickly. We allowed the faster rider to pedal by us on the left without contest......... but within a mile we had caught back up with and passed him. It seems he had spent all his horses getting around us and had nothing left. Young guys, when will they learn? ;-) We just continued our brisk pace back into Mosier.
I maxed out at just over 42 mph today, and it wasn't on our steepest descents. They were fast enough as it was thank you very much. I got on the pedals a bit to catch back up with the guys after taking their photo as they passed and just didn't want to catch up and fall in behind........ I wanted to blow past them!
From Mosier we climbed up the last hill of note then got back on the carfree section. In just a short distance of gentle upslope we arrived back at the Mosier Twin Tunnels.
Spring in the Gorge is always so pretty. There were plenty of wildflowers to greet us.
Here are Terry and Shawn at one of our photo stops.
Shawn was a trooper. It's early in his riding season and at times he was expending a great deal of energy to keep pace, but he never gave up. He just kept plugging along.
Give him a bit more time on the bike and I won't be able to catch him! (and neither will those of you who did not show up today!!!!)
We began our ride a bit farther west in Hood River than usual to make it easier for the folks to find us. That gave us just over 44 miles by the time we got back to our rigs. Here we are at the end, still smiling!
Perhaps we were still smiling because we knew we were on our way to a local brewpub to have our "debriefing" ;-)
Terry and Shawn each achieved a season high one day mileage.
It looks like we logged about 1850 ft of climbing.
All in all, a great day, great company, and a great ride!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........44................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............982.....+........663....=........1645
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
The hills were noticeable but not insurmountable. We'd stop from time to time when a photo opportunity would present itself, like this one of Memaloose Island, a former burial ground for Native Americans.
We were a little concerned over the possibility of ice in the damp and shaded portions but it ended up not being an issue. We cruised right along. There was plenty of testosterone to go around as it seemed that every uphill presented an opportunity to see who could hold pace the longest. ....and of course the downhills were just plain fun!
(photo of Rowena Loops)
We pass a few islands in the Columbia River, here's a photo of Chicken Charlie Island. Wikpedia has some information on the island. The island, and the home on it, are for sale. Take a virtual tour!
We arrived at The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, our turnaround point and stopped for a little breather, a snack, and a good pull on the water bottles (as well as a visit to the sandbox!) before turning around and making our way back.
On the way out as we blasted down the Rowena Loops we noted the marker for the location to earn King of the Mountain points and the pink polka-dotted jersey. Here are Terry and Shawn giving it all they've got in a sprint to garner that coveted jersey!
You will have to ask them which one got the jersey!
We made our way back to Rowena Crest but did not stop as we cleared the summit then began the fun and fast run down the west side towards Mosier. At one point we were surprised to see another rider gaining on us. We were just coasting but we were moving very quickly. We allowed the faster rider to pedal by us on the left without contest......... but within a mile we had caught back up with and passed him. It seems he had spent all his horses getting around us and had nothing left. Young guys, when will they learn? ;-) We just continued our brisk pace back into Mosier.
I maxed out at just over 42 mph today, and it wasn't on our steepest descents. They were fast enough as it was thank you very much. I got on the pedals a bit to catch back up with the guys after taking their photo as they passed and just didn't want to catch up and fall in behind........ I wanted to blow past them!
From Mosier we climbed up the last hill of note then got back on the carfree section. In just a short distance of gentle upslope we arrived back at the Mosier Twin Tunnels.
Spring in the Gorge is always so pretty. There were plenty of wildflowers to greet us.
Here are Terry and Shawn at one of our photo stops.
Shawn was a trooper. It's early in his riding season and at times he was expending a great deal of energy to keep pace, but he never gave up. He just kept plugging along.
Give him a bit more time on the bike and I won't be able to catch him! (and neither will those of you who did not show up today!!!!)
We began our ride a bit farther west in Hood River than usual to make it easier for the folks to find us. That gave us just over 44 miles by the time we got back to our rigs. Here we are at the end, still smiling!
Perhaps we were still smiling because we knew we were on our way to a local brewpub to have our "debriefing" ;-)
Terry and Shawn each achieved a season high one day mileage.
It looks like we logged about 1850 ft of climbing.
All in all, a great day, great company, and a great ride!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........44................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............982.....+........663....=........1645
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, March 21, 2008
Just a short ride today
I have a lot of stuff going on today but managed to squeak in a short out and back on Evergreen Rd beginning and ending at the Hillsboro Main Library. One thing about short rides, you can time them between rain showers. ;-)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........10................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............938.....+........663....=........1601
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........10................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............938.....+........663....=........1601
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Wind, rain, hail, chip seal, cold
And with that slew of 4 letter words we were welcomed to the first day of Spring!
A friend called and wanted to ride today and I hardly ever pass up a chance to ride. Erinn suggested we ride the Snoozeville Populaire route that she was unable to ride last week. I had a meeting in Salem and didn't get back until almost 12:30 so we had a bit of a late start. The weather that started out decent had been deteriorating. By the time we were on the road there were some showers playing around the hills and we had a pretty stiff south breeze blowing as a crosswind as we pedaled west. By the time we turned up into the Mountaindale canyon we were getting some pretty cold rain from time to time. The wind was at our backs at this point and it made that "invisible hill" a little easier than normal. We arrived at Snooseville (big metropolis that it is!) and took a short breather and talked bikes. We remounted the bikes and headed back downhill ...and into the wind! We kept up a brisk pace so we kept warm but the drops hitting the cheeks felt like BB's! During one of the heavier showers we pulled off under a big fir tree and used it as an umbrella. A couple of llamas checked out the funny creatures in spandex with two legs and wheels. I'm not sure who was funnier looking, us or them!
We kept on the Populaire route until we arrived in the town of Banks, then with one eye on the increasing rain showers and the other on the clock we decided that the western end of the loop could wait for another day. We set our sights on a 50 mile ride at that point.
We worked our way back through the little burg of Roy and then did our best to stay off the busier roads because we were getting into rush hour traffic. We did a pretty good job of that only having to ride less than a mile on each of Cornelius-Schefflin Rd and Glencoe Rd, the two busy roads in our way.
We came pretty close to our 50 mile goal with just under 49 miles. Erinn said that was close enough!
She is a good smooth and strong rider. Triathletes get that way. :-)
I have ridden with Erinn twice before, both times last year as I was still recuperating from the car collision issue. She buried me badly on the climb up to Vista House from the east, then a month or so later left me in her dust on the Monster Cookie Metric Century. I got a chance for redemption today. I held my own and then some. ;-) The miles must be doing me some good.
Still planning on riding from Hood River to The Dalles and back this Saturday. Dry side of the Cascades, it should be a good ride. If you want to join us be ready to ride from the Hood River Post Office (2149 Cascade Ave) at 9AM Saturday. There is plenty of on street parking in the area as well as a public parking lot.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........49................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............928.....+........663....=........1591
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
A friend called and wanted to ride today and I hardly ever pass up a chance to ride. Erinn suggested we ride the Snoozeville Populaire route that she was unable to ride last week. I had a meeting in Salem and didn't get back until almost 12:30 so we had a bit of a late start. The weather that started out decent had been deteriorating. By the time we were on the road there were some showers playing around the hills and we had a pretty stiff south breeze blowing as a crosswind as we pedaled west. By the time we turned up into the Mountaindale canyon we were getting some pretty cold rain from time to time. The wind was at our backs at this point and it made that "invisible hill" a little easier than normal. We arrived at Snooseville (big metropolis that it is!) and took a short breather and talked bikes. We remounted the bikes and headed back downhill ...and into the wind! We kept up a brisk pace so we kept warm but the drops hitting the cheeks felt like BB's! During one of the heavier showers we pulled off under a big fir tree and used it as an umbrella. A couple of llamas checked out the funny creatures in spandex with two legs and wheels. I'm not sure who was funnier looking, us or them!
We kept on the Populaire route until we arrived in the town of Banks, then with one eye on the increasing rain showers and the other on the clock we decided that the western end of the loop could wait for another day. We set our sights on a 50 mile ride at that point.
We worked our way back through the little burg of Roy and then did our best to stay off the busier roads because we were getting into rush hour traffic. We did a pretty good job of that only having to ride less than a mile on each of Cornelius-Schefflin Rd and Glencoe Rd, the two busy roads in our way.
We came pretty close to our 50 mile goal with just under 49 miles. Erinn said that was close enough!
She is a good smooth and strong rider. Triathletes get that way. :-)
I have ridden with Erinn twice before, both times last year as I was still recuperating from the car collision issue. She buried me badly on the climb up to Vista House from the east, then a month or so later left me in her dust on the Monster Cookie Metric Century. I got a chance for redemption today. I held my own and then some. ;-) The miles must be doing me some good.
Still planning on riding from Hood River to The Dalles and back this Saturday. Dry side of the Cascades, it should be a good ride. If you want to join us be ready to ride from the Hood River Post Office (2149 Cascade Ave) at 9AM Saturday. There is plenty of on street parking in the area as well as a public parking lot.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........49................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............928.....+........663....=........1591
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
A pretty decent day despite the forcast
It started out a bit cooler than it's been lately, or maybe just I was on the road earlier than normal! I did a bit of commuting via bike this morning to a meeting in Portland. I MAXed it through the West Hills but rode on both ends. I still had the bike with me this afternoon in Beaverton when the weather just looked too good to not be out riding.
Just puttering around but ended up with 31 miles total. No rain as of 5PM, but the clouds are getting more numerous and darker!
I've got a pretty good response to my offer to put together a ride on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway from Hood River to The Dalles and back this Saturday. That's the section that runs through the scenic Mosier Twin Tunnels and travels over the Rowena Loops. If you care to join us drop me a line.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........31................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............879.....+........663....=........1542
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Just puttering around but ended up with 31 miles total. No rain as of 5PM, but the clouds are getting more numerous and darker!
I've got a pretty good response to my offer to put together a ride on the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway from Hood River to The Dalles and back this Saturday. That's the section that runs through the scenic Mosier Twin Tunnels and travels over the Rowena Loops. If you care to join us drop me a line.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........31................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............879.....+........663....=........1542
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Argh! The artificial bike again!
It was a bit wet and blustery this morning but by afternoon the winds died down and sun poked out from time to time. Unfortunately by the time the weather turned for the better I was a long way away from my bike. I ended up at the gym on the Lifecycle.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today............0................20
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............848.....+........663....=........1511
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, March 16, 2008
The streak ends
Well, we rode the planned route from CPR out and around Hagg Lake today. Up in dem dar hills it rained from time to time. We still had fun and it was an added bonus to be able to watch the Banana Belt races while there.
Those of us out for fun instead of racing had an easier time. ;-)
A great ride despite the rain. Dave has ridden with me several times, his improvement is amazing. I wish I were improving as quickly.
After the ride our entire Race Across Oregon team met up at CPR for a good discussion of the challenges we face. Two of our team raced today in the Banana Belt Races at Hagg Lake and both did very well. J. Michael Manning claimed 1st place for the second week in a row, and Cary Mallon took 7th in a very competitive field.
Laura, Dave, and I just rode bikes. ;-)
It was a good day to be on a bike!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........52.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............848.....+........643....=........1491
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Those of us out for fun instead of racing had an easier time. ;-)
A great ride despite the rain. Dave has ridden with me several times, his improvement is amazing. I wish I were improving as quickly.
After the ride our entire Race Across Oregon team met up at CPR for a good discussion of the challenges we face. Two of our team raced today in the Banana Belt Races at Hagg Lake and both did very well. J. Michael Manning claimed 1st place for the second week in a row, and Cary Mallon took 7th in a very competitive field.
Laura, Dave, and I just rode bikes. ;-)
It was a good day to be on a bike!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........52.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............848.....+........643....=........1491
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Lucked out!
I rode from Grand Lodge in Forest Grove out to and around Hagg Lake and back this morning. We had some rain showers overnight and the roads were damp, but not splashy wet. The sun even poked out from time to time and the roads eventually dried off. I can add yet another day riding without getting rained on! Of course if I would have taken a bit longer that would not have been the case since it rained lightly within 10 minutes of finishing the ride.
Here's a little video of climbing up the hill past the dam. It's probably the toughest climb on the route but I did it today without having to go to my 30 tooth chainring.
Here's a little "look about" the lake as I neared the dam after making the circuit of the lake.
And from the "bikes going fast" shelf comes this!
They need a bumper sticker that says, "Does this bike make my butt look fast?" ;-)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........27.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............796.....+........643....=........1439
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Here's a little video of climbing up the hill past the dam. It's probably the toughest climb on the route but I did it today without having to go to my 30 tooth chainring.
Here's a little "look about" the lake as I neared the dam after making the circuit of the lake.
And from the "bikes going fast" shelf comes this!
They need a bumper sticker that says, "Does this bike make my butt look fast?" ;-)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........27.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............796.....+........643....=........1439
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Friday, March 14, 2008
It's Official!
Well, it's official, I am a member of a 4 man 50+ Race Across Oregon team. What an adventure this will be!
If any of you want to join in the Race Across Oregon fun by being one of our support crew/drivers email me. We are looking for a few folks that love bikes, know what it takes to keep a team effort going, and have a few McGyver skills thrown in besides!
In the meantime it's raining. With the slick wet roads and reduced visibility I had thought about riding my mountain bike on the rails to trails Banks-Vernonia trail today, but found out that it is closed beyond Manning because of Winter storm damage.
I guess I'll have to get a few "miles" in at the gym instead.
Real? Fake? Who knows, but it is entertaining to watch!
Oh, and while I was celebrating the Christmas holiday, Team Tartan was doing their best to ensure that Old Goats 4 CycleOne will be in the mirror.
If there ever was a good day to ride the lifecycle in the gym today was IT! It just POURED at times this afternoon.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today............0................21
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............769.....+........643....=........1412
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
If any of you want to join in the Race Across Oregon fun by being one of our support crew/drivers email me. We are looking for a few folks that love bikes, know what it takes to keep a team effort going, and have a few McGyver skills thrown in besides!
In the meantime it's raining. With the slick wet roads and reduced visibility I had thought about riding my mountain bike on the rails to trails Banks-Vernonia trail today, but found out that it is closed beyond Manning because of Winter storm damage.
I guess I'll have to get a few "miles" in at the gym instead.
Real? Fake? Who knows, but it is entertaining to watch!
Oh, and while I was celebrating the Christmas holiday, Team Tartan was doing their best to ensure that Old Goats 4 CycleOne will be in the mirror.
If there ever was a good day to ride the lifecycle in the gym today was IT! It just POURED at times this afternoon.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today............0................21
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............769.....+........643....=........1412
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Back on the saddle
I got my road bike back from my LBS yesterday, but morning showers and afternoon meetings kept me off the bike. Well, truth be told, a wave of "bike pansy" was thrown in there too. I was in Hillsboro last evening about 8:30PM and could have ridden around a bit on those nice wide well lit shoulders of buttery smooth Evergreen Rd ..... but didn't.
Today I did a bit better. I still had trouble getting motivated but once on the bike managed to get 30 miles in. I feel I should be doing more but when compared to last year I suppose I shouldn't complain, and it IS early in the season.
It was in the mid 50's today but dark clouds looked ominous and there was a south breeze blowing. "In these here parts" those are pretty good indications of impending rain. I did however continue my streak of not getting rained on while on the bike.
A little video from the handlebar cam taken on the eastbound ride along Cornell Rd coming up on Brookwood....along with all the road vibration sounds! :-(
If you are in the Washington County area this weekend and want to join a few of us on a ride be at McMenamin's Grand Lodge in Forest Grove ready to ride at 9:30AM on Saturday. We are doing an easy ride out and around Hagg Lake. That will be 27 miles with about 800 ft elevation gain. I'll do my best to keep the level ground pace at or below 15 mph. I plan on regrouping from time to time.
If your up for more than that, the same ride at the same time on Sunday, but be able to hold 17-18 mph on the flats. Far fewer regroups. There is also an option on Sunday of beginning the ride at McMenamin's Cornelius Pass Roadhouse at 8AM. From there we will ride to Grand Lodge with plenty of time to meet the others. That option will add 26 miles to the ride for around 53 miles total.
Oh, and this is worth sharing with your non-cycling friends.
Awareness Test
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........30.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............769.....+........622....=........1391
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Today I did a bit better. I still had trouble getting motivated but once on the bike managed to get 30 miles in. I feel I should be doing more but when compared to last year I suppose I shouldn't complain, and it IS early in the season.
It was in the mid 50's today but dark clouds looked ominous and there was a south breeze blowing. "In these here parts" those are pretty good indications of impending rain. I did however continue my streak of not getting rained on while on the bike.
A little video from the handlebar cam taken on the eastbound ride along Cornell Rd coming up on Brookwood....along with all the road vibration sounds! :-(
If you are in the Washington County area this weekend and want to join a few of us on a ride be at McMenamin's Grand Lodge in Forest Grove ready to ride at 9:30AM on Saturday. We are doing an easy ride out and around Hagg Lake. That will be 27 miles with about 800 ft elevation gain. I'll do my best to keep the level ground pace at or below 15 mph. I plan on regrouping from time to time.
If your up for more than that, the same ride at the same time on Sunday, but be able to hold 17-18 mph on the flats. Far fewer regroups. There is also an option on Sunday of beginning the ride at McMenamin's Cornelius Pass Roadhouse at 8AM. From there we will ride to Grand Lodge with plenty of time to meet the others. That option will add 26 miles to the ride for around 53 miles total.
Oh, and this is worth sharing with your non-cycling friends.
Awareness Test
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........30.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............769.....+........622....=........1391
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, March 10, 2008
Alternate modes of transportation
I dropped my road bike off at the LBS (Local Bike Shop= Olson's) today for a quick check-up. They were busier than I expected and said they'd call me when it's ready to pick up. In the meantime I pressed my mountain bike into road service. I rode from McMenamin's Grand Lodge out to Stimson Mill and back. Dark clouds (and the extra effort required by the mtn bike!) made me think that the mill was a good turnaround point rather than a full lap of Hagg Lake.
Hopefully the Marin is back in the stable soon!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........15.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............739.....+........622....=........1361
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Hopefully the Marin is back in the stable soon!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........15.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............739.....+........622....=........1361
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Social biking
I belong to the Beaverton/Tigard Bike Meetup group. It's pretty much a social group that happens to ride bikes a few miles from time to time. 8 of us met today at Gladstone High School for a planned 14 mile ride. To start things off one of the riders had some issues with one of his cleats. After a bit of futzing with it....
we were ready to roll.
We rode to a Starbucks somewhere closer to Portland, the planned turnaround,
but we all wanted more miles so we continued along the Springwater Trail to OMSI. (except for Jeri who had previous plans and needed to get back, we bid her farewell and continued on)
We turned around at OMSI and made our way back to Gladstone. Along the return route we had some hills, both up and down that we didn't see on the trip out. As we crested one of the hills and looked down a long descent Shawn pulled to the right and said what I thought was "go around, I'll keep up with you" .....okay, competitive spirit? See what you're made of? Who knows, but I smiled, shifted into my BIG chainring and pedaled! I maxed out at just over 42 mph and slowed down to about 27 as I went up the next incline. He became smaller and smaller in my mirror until I didn't see him at all. :-O
I got back to Gladstone HS a bit ahead of the rest of the group (part of that "I'll keep up with you thing!) so I rode around an extended block a couple of times. I ended up with 27 miles today.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........27.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............724.....+........622....=........1346
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
we were ready to roll.
We rode to a Starbucks somewhere closer to Portland, the planned turnaround,
but we all wanted more miles so we continued along the Springwater Trail to OMSI. (except for Jeri who had previous plans and needed to get back, we bid her farewell and continued on)
We turned around at OMSI and made our way back to Gladstone. Along the return route we had some hills, both up and down that we didn't see on the trip out. As we crested one of the hills and looked down a long descent Shawn pulled to the right and said what I thought was "go around, I'll keep up with you" .....okay, competitive spirit? See what you're made of? Who knows, but I smiled, shifted into my BIG chainring and pedaled! I maxed out at just over 42 mph and slowed down to about 27 as I went up the next incline. He became smaller and smaller in my mirror until I didn't see him at all. :-O
I got back to Gladstone HS a bit ahead of the rest of the group (part of that "I'll keep up with you thing!) so I rode around an extended block a couple of times. I ended up with 27 miles today.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........27.................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............724.....+........622....=........1346
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Oregon Randonneurs
Dave, Laura, and I rode 62 miles with the OrRando folks today. We met at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse and signed in.
Officially 87 riders, a good showing considering the rain that was falling last night. We shoved off at 8AM, no rain, but the roads were still wet from the night's rain. I jumped right into a pretty fast group and we held better than 20 mph (just inches apart front to back and side to side) for about 18 miles when one of the women flatted.
I paused to see if she had everything she needed. That was all it took to fall off the back of the group. We were climbing a slight grade and I just couldn't hook back up with them. I solo rode the remaining few miles to Snooseville, the turnaround point. I ate a banana and drank some water then quickly hopped back on the bike. Within about a mile a tandem caught up with me and went around. I knew where my bread was buttered and pushed hard enough to slip into their copious draft. Before long we passed Dave and Laura making their way up to Snooseville. The had smiles on their faces and waved. The roads dried off and all was well. I managed to stay in the tandem's wake for the next 20+ miles as they pulled 20-22mph on the flats. I just about lost them at the "secret control" where they got better than a quarter mile jump on me as I waited to get my ride card initialed. It was all I had in me to catch back up with them. I gave it all I had because I knew what the benefit was to be in their draft. I enjoyed the tandem's gravitational pull for another 10 miles or so. In the non city of Kansas City (just past the famous Love Farm antler filled barn) I stopped to down a gel and drink some water. I let the tandem continue on their ride. I had ridden the stoker position on a tandem on my first 1 day STP and continue to marvel at their efficiency. The stoker was feeding the captain, taking the garbage back, calling out the next turns, passing gel and water forward. I was stuck on my solo bike doing that all for myself. But then I did have an easier time on the uphill sections!
I rode the last few miles into Forest Grove and the Maggie's Buns control solo.
I felt a bit tired from about 40-45 miles but rallied. As I turned on Evergreen Rd the velvet smooth pavement helped pick up my spirits. I pedaled back up to a 19-20 mph pace and held that back to the ride's end, finishing our circuit at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse.
I did not see the colored balls control coming off the Wilson River Road.......concentrating on the tandem you are drafting's rear tire just 6" in front of you will do that! Despite not being able to answer that question the powers that be were kind enough to issue me a very cool Populaire finisher's pin. I finished the 62 miles with just over an 18 mph average, the nice little finisher's pin supplied by the Oregon Randonneurs and a scuzzy bike to show for the first hour and a half on wet roads.
My 4 Race Across Oregon teammates were to meet at the finish today to go over race logistics. One teammate had previously sent regrets having family commitments, one other just didn't show.
And so it was that Mike and I met and went over some of the challenges we will face. It's hard to plan a team event when half the team doesn't attend.
How do you spell commitment? I hope it's not going to be an issue. Before we deal with an issue like that Mike and I will ride as a two man team. I am prepared to do that.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........62....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............697.....+........622....=........1329
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Officially 87 riders, a good showing considering the rain that was falling last night. We shoved off at 8AM, no rain, but the roads were still wet from the night's rain. I jumped right into a pretty fast group and we held better than 20 mph (just inches apart front to back and side to side) for about 18 miles when one of the women flatted.
I paused to see if she had everything she needed. That was all it took to fall off the back of the group. We were climbing a slight grade and I just couldn't hook back up with them. I solo rode the remaining few miles to Snooseville, the turnaround point. I ate a banana and drank some water then quickly hopped back on the bike. Within about a mile a tandem caught up with me and went around. I knew where my bread was buttered and pushed hard enough to slip into their copious draft. Before long we passed Dave and Laura making their way up to Snooseville. The had smiles on their faces and waved. The roads dried off and all was well. I managed to stay in the tandem's wake for the next 20+ miles as they pulled 20-22mph on the flats. I just about lost them at the "secret control" where they got better than a quarter mile jump on me as I waited to get my ride card initialed. It was all I had in me to catch back up with them. I gave it all I had because I knew what the benefit was to be in their draft. I enjoyed the tandem's gravitational pull for another 10 miles or so. In the non city of Kansas City (just past the famous Love Farm antler filled barn) I stopped to down a gel and drink some water. I let the tandem continue on their ride. I had ridden the stoker position on a tandem on my first 1 day STP and continue to marvel at their efficiency. The stoker was feeding the captain, taking the garbage back, calling out the next turns, passing gel and water forward. I was stuck on my solo bike doing that all for myself. But then I did have an easier time on the uphill sections!
I rode the last few miles into Forest Grove and the Maggie's Buns control solo.
I felt a bit tired from about 40-45 miles but rallied. As I turned on Evergreen Rd the velvet smooth pavement helped pick up my spirits. I pedaled back up to a 19-20 mph pace and held that back to the ride's end, finishing our circuit at Cornelius Pass Roadhouse.
I did not see the colored balls control coming off the Wilson River Road.......concentrating on the tandem you are drafting's rear tire just 6" in front of you will do that! Despite not being able to answer that question the powers that be were kind enough to issue me a very cool Populaire finisher's pin. I finished the 62 miles with just over an 18 mph average, the nice little finisher's pin supplied by the Oregon Randonneurs and a scuzzy bike to show for the first hour and a half on wet roads.
My 4 Race Across Oregon teammates were to meet at the finish today to go over race logistics. One teammate had previously sent regrets having family commitments, one other just didn't show.
And so it was that Mike and I met and went over some of the challenges we will face. It's hard to plan a team event when half the team doesn't attend.
How do you spell commitment? I hope it's not going to be an issue. Before we deal with an issue like that Mike and I will ride as a two man team. I am prepared to do that.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........62....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............697.....+........622....=........1329
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thursday, March 6, 2008
"I will buy you that big house way up in the West HILLS"
Or so the Portland band "Everclear" sang on a popular song a few years ago. I rode past quite a few homes today that would qualify. Some even had "for sale" signs in the yard, but you know if you have to ask..........
Another beautiful ride today. I started out once again with no particular destination or route in mind. I was feeling just strong enough today that when I had a choice of going up or down at an intersection I took the "up". Well, when you keep going up from this side of town you usually end up here:
One thing to remember about the West Hills of Portland....... there are hills! With road names like Vista, Ridgeview, Canyon, Scenic, Alpine, Timberline, and Panorama it isn't hard to imagine what the topography is like!
As I kept climbing past the expansive homes and spectacular views I couldn't help but have that Everclear song "I Will Buy You a New Life" in my head. If Art Alexakis still wants to buy that big house, send him my email address. ;-)
It was a good ride.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........36....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............635.....+........622....=........1257
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Another beautiful ride today. I started out once again with no particular destination or route in mind. I was feeling just strong enough today that when I had a choice of going up or down at an intersection I took the "up". Well, when you keep going up from this side of town you usually end up here:
One thing to remember about the West Hills of Portland....... there are hills! With road names like Vista, Ridgeview, Canyon, Scenic, Alpine, Timberline, and Panorama it isn't hard to imagine what the topography is like!
As I kept climbing past the expansive homes and spectacular views I couldn't help but have that Everclear song "I Will Buy You a New Life" in my head. If Art Alexakis still wants to buy that big house, send him my email address. ;-)
It was a good ride.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........36....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............635.....+........622....=........1257
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
In like a lamb, out like a lion?
Well it's another beautiful day, not a cloud in the sky. I'm not sure if March came in like a lamb or a lion. We've had a bit of rain in the last few days but hardly lion-like. No worries, just ride the darn bike!
I did that today. I took a couple of hours in the early afternoon to ride around the east Hillsboro to Beaverton area. Just random turns here and there, out enjoying the day.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........28....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............599.....+........622....=........1221
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I did that today. I took a couple of hours in the early afternoon to ride around the east Hillsboro to Beaverton area. Just random turns here and there, out enjoying the day.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........28....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............599.....+........622....=........1221
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
plenty of meetings today, but no riding.
It was a decent day but I had/have plenty of other things going on. I guess it's as good a day as any to take a break from the bike.
Ever wonder what the drivers of the trucks that right hooked Tracy Sparling and Brett Jarolimek might have seen as they ran over those folks? How about the Tri-Met bus driver that ran over Austen Miller?
Here's your chance to have a driver's eye view. Luckily, the vehicle was a little smaller and the youth on the bike is still walking and talking afterwards.
If drivers don't "look" drivers don't "see".
Another example of why you should NEVER ride to the right of a vehicle that could turn right.
No worries, the "I didn't see the cyclist" defense probably works in Spanish speaking countries too. :-(
Golf Cart Crashes Into Biker - Watch more free videos
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today............0....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............571.....+........622....=........1193
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ever wonder what the drivers of the trucks that right hooked Tracy Sparling and Brett Jarolimek might have seen as they ran over those folks? How about the Tri-Met bus driver that ran over Austen Miller?
Here's your chance to have a driver's eye view. Luckily, the vehicle was a little smaller and the youth on the bike is still walking and talking afterwards.
If drivers don't "look" drivers don't "see".
Another example of why you should NEVER ride to the right of a vehicle that could turn right.
No worries, the "I didn't see the cyclist" defense probably works in Spanish speaking countries too. :-(
Golf Cart Crashes Into Biker - Watch more free videos
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today............0....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............571.....+........622....=........1193
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Monday, March 3, 2008
Hmm..... rest or ride?
It was raining lightly most of the morning, however now the sun is shining between the dark clouds. The breezy conditions have dried the road off...... I was thinking it might have been a good day to take a day of recovery, but now the road is calling. I have one errand yet to run, but might just load up the bike and ride a lap around Hagg Lake if I can get that done yet before dark. It will be close. Check back for an update later today.
EVENING UPDATE:
OK, so "ride" won out over "rest". Lake Stop Store up and around Hagg Lake, back out to Hwy 47 then return back to Lake Stop Store. .... 17 miles not near as quickly as the Banana Belt racers did on Sunday!
and this!
click on poster to view readable large size
I attempted to ride De Ronde Van Oeste Portlandia last year, but being fresh on the bike after getting hit by a car that ran a stop sign as I rode my bike, I couldn't finish the whole thing. There is a chance of redemption! It has been announced that the event will take place again this year, the date is April 5th, the time is 10AM. The route is said to be even tougher than last year's 44 miles/7200ft. Show yourself what your made of, be there.
from the`07 event:
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........17....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............571.....+........622....=........1193
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
EVENING UPDATE:
OK, so "ride" won out over "rest". Lake Stop Store up and around Hagg Lake, back out to Hwy 47 then return back to Lake Stop Store. .... 17 miles not near as quickly as the Banana Belt racers did on Sunday!
and this!
click on poster to view readable large size
I attempted to ride De Ronde Van Oeste Portlandia last year, but being fresh on the bike after getting hit by a car that ran a stop sign as I rode my bike, I couldn't finish the whole thing. There is a chance of redemption! It has been announced that the event will take place again this year, the date is April 5th, the time is 10AM. The route is said to be even tougher than last year's 44 miles/7200ft. Show yourself what your made of, be there.from the`07 event:
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........17....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............571.....+........622....=........1193
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Another beautiful day!
Dave, Laura, and I started out from Butteville at 10AM. It was a bit cool to start out with, and around the 10 mile mark we hit some pretty thick fog that lasted about another 10, but from then on it cleared up and was gorgeous! We rode a loop from Butteville to Kaizer via St Paul and Willamette Mission State Park then back to Butteville via Gervais and Donald. You couldn't really ask for much nicer conditions. Wind was really non existant, just a very slight breeze from time to time. No photos today, batteries called it quits in the helmet cam and it was just too much hassle to take a photo with the cell phone.
Just use your imagination to see three cyclists with wide smiles on their faces and beautiful blue sky as a back drop! ;-) We got 50 miles in.
EVENING UPDATE, 6PM:
My sister and I rode into town and got dinner fixin's. That gave me another 5 miles today..... every mile counts! (not sure why!)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........55....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............554.....+........622....=........1176
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Just use your imagination to see three cyclists with wide smiles on their faces and beautiful blue sky as a back drop! ;-) We got 50 miles in.
EVENING UPDATE, 6PM:
My sister and I rode into town and got dinner fixin's. That gave me another 5 miles today..... every mile counts! (not sure why!)
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........55....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............554.....+........622....=........1176
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Another dry ride!
Ok, ok, so I need to clarify that. It started raining yesterday afternoon and continued on into the evening. By this morning it had slowed to scattered showers, though at times those showers were quite hard. By mid afternoon the showers had dissipated and by late afternoon a breeze had dried the roads. I hopped on the bike!
So I got in 16 miles today riding from downtown Hillsboro east on Oak making my way eventually to Main then on to Cornelius Pass. From there I turned west on Evergreen and proceeded to Glencoe then back to Jackson Rd completing the ride. Late in the day and a lot more traffic on the roads than I like, but I survived. ;-)
Tomorrow a few of us are riding from the Butteville Store to Kaizer and back, a planned 50 mile ride. If you are looking for some bike fun join us! Pedals spinning at 10AM.
Oh, and one more thing........ Our Race Across Oregon team might be complete again. A surprising number of responses have lead to a meeting next weekend. If "the new guy" can put up with us old geezers we will be good to go!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........16....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............499.....+........622....=........1121
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
So I got in 16 miles today riding from downtown Hillsboro east on Oak making my way eventually to Main then on to Cornelius Pass. From there I turned west on Evergreen and proceeded to Glencoe then back to Jackson Rd completing the ride. Late in the day and a lot more traffic on the roads than I like, but I survived. ;-)
Tomorrow a few of us are riding from the Butteville Store to Kaizer and back, a planned 50 mile ride. If you are looking for some bike fun join us! Pedals spinning at 10AM.
Oh, and one more thing........ Our Race Across Oregon team might be complete again. A surprising number of responses have lead to a meeting next weekend. If "the new guy" can put up with us old geezers we will be good to go!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
...............Road Bike.....LifeCycle.....Total Miles
Today...........16....................0
Jan total.......98.....+........402....=..........500
Feb total.....385.....+.......220....=..........605
YTD............499.....+........622....=........1121
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
