2nd Wheel

Adios Amigo

2010-06-28T12:19:00.003-07:00

With Matt moving to the land made famous by William Penn, Benjamin Franklin, and most notably cheese steaks, a farewell ride was in order. The original idea of a trip to Flagstaff was scuttled once a fire broke out, so we decided to stay in our own backyard. So, Matt and I rode up to the top of Mt. Lemmon, loaded with gear and reinforcements would soon gather with steaks and cold beer. The summer time has officially started here in Tucson with triple digit temps, so getting to the high ground was a priority.

Loaded with sleeping bag, air mattress, cookware, lots of food, change of clothes, running shoes and tools. Later during the pedal to the top, I would be overcome by the sheer awesomeness that my setup exuded. I still need to pack less and it's better to get as much gear on the bike as possible. A 30+ pound backpack hurts on a 29 mile climb. Oh, and having gears would probably help, too!

Our camp, looming some 6,000 ft. up on those mountains...keep pedaling.

We stopped at Molino Basin for some shade and met this friendly fellow. The little guy just hopped up and wouldn't leave my side.

Is this some cruel joke? I wish there were icy spots. We hadn't even reached Bear Canyon yet and Matt had already bummed some water off some hikers at Molino and it was HOT. We ducked into the shade at Bug Springs trailhead to cool down when some MTB'ers drove by. I yelled out "got any spare water??" to which he replied "anyone wearing a DC jersey can have some of my water!" Thanks Vern for the ice cold water and Powerade! We mustered the strength and determination to push on, knowing that this next section was fully exposed and it was only getting hotter.

Only 2,100 more feet to go.

A nice reward at the Country Store in Summerhaven, only moments before I was kicked off the property by a more than agitated store owner. Apparently, he didn't take too kindly to my consumption of the High Life off in the corner, wrapped in a bag and out of sight...well, obviously, not out of his sight.

Walker showed up and brought more beer. Time to relax on the top of the mountain off Meadow Trail.

Apparently, this is how you drink beer pub style...

Later, Kyle showed up and it was time for a bike maintenance clinic.

I'd like my steak cooked medium rare, sir!

The esbit stove did a great job cooking my breakfast!

Unfortunately for Kyle, his stem/headset issues were never solved. Shortly after this he bailed on the Lemmon Drop. Thanks for bringing us the steaks and dinner, though!

C'mon up to the mountain and stay at "The Hoss!"

Came across a mother turkey and her 10 or so chicks.

Rose Canyon lake just right of the center.

By the time we reached Prison Camp it was hot as Hades and facing the pedal home, Matt and I called an audible...take the road! The others dropped into Prison Camp while we coasted the next 6 miles to the base. Along the way down a line of cars passed us, but something about this pickup truck was off. As I drafted behind him, I could smell smoke and saw something billow from the bed. It wasn't ash coming from his BBQ but rather smoke. Jokingly, I thought to myself we'll soon see this guy down the road and sure enough we did.

There he was, pulled over with another motorist helping him extinguish the flames. Apparently, he neglected to properly put out his grill fire, wanted to save the partially burnt briquettes, or was just a complete idiot. I think he was a culmination of all of the above. Driving down Lemmon, his grill had shifted, causing his rug and bed to catch on fire. Embers from this rolling grill on wheels could have easily started a fire anywhere along the way, let alone multiple fires! This in the wake of what happened to Schultz Pass in Flagstaff leaves no margin for carelessness. Nice job, jaggoff!

Holding down the porch at Circle K while it's 108 degrees. Almost home...

Unfortunately, my GPS turned off a couple times and lost some data. Total mileage for our endeavor was around 80 with over 10,664 ft. of climbing. Not bad for a bikepacking overnighter on Mt. Lemmon and a proper sendoff for G Donk.

Fruita and Grand Junction, CO

2010-05-13T18:11:00.002-07:00

Every spring I get the itch to get outside, so what better way to scratch it than with a road trip to an new destination! My Grad school presentation meant we were getting a late start, and finally departed T-town after 7:30pm. North thru Flagstaff, the Rez at night and first light in Moab, we drove for 11 hours straight to reach Fruita, CO.

As luck would have it we found the first camp spot near the top of Road 18. Still groggy from 11+ hours of driving thru the night and it was time to shake out the cobwebs. Thursday morning ride: Joe's Ridge-Zippity Do Dah- Western Zippity- Kessel's.

Friday: A quick stop to Over the Edge for some cues and we were off. Parked at Tabeguache trail head and rode Tabeguache/ Holy Cross- Pre-Nup- Little Park Rd.- Unknown Connector to Gunny Trail- Up Gunny- Back on Little Park Rd. for 3-4 miles- The Ribbon Trail- Andy's Loop.

British, totally stoked!

Ribbon Trail rock slab off in the distance. Climb, climb, climb!

Back to camp for a quick respite and then it was time for a evening ride. Joe's Run- Zippity Do Dah- Kessel's. Somewhere along the way I picked up a hole in my tire, thus resulting in a Stan's FAILURE. As it would turn out, this was the only mechanical of the weekend. Everyone kept it on two wheels and only one flat tire. Not bad considering the ground we covered in 3 days.

Saturday a local friend met up to show us around the Kokopelli Loops. From the Loma parking lot we embarked upon Mary's- Rustler's Loop- Horsethief Bench- Steve's Loop- Lion's Loop- Mack Ridge. Originally, we thought we could tackle Moore Fun Ridge on the way back, but that proved to be a little much to bite off, so the decision was made to hit the frontage back to the car and cold beer.

On the way home we made a quick stop in Moab so the passengers could jump in the river. Seems the water temp was about 58 degrees, which only served to solidify my decision to watch and drink a road soda instead. Fruita treated us to some of the finest singletrack I have ever ridden and despite the 22 hours of driving round-trip to get there, it was soooo worth it. I'll definitely be headed back for the next road trip and to say hi to my new buddy, Tater!

Spring Flowers

2010-04-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

While You Were Gone

2010-03-26T10:28:00.000-07:00

Just Another Day

2010-03-20T17:08:00.000-07:00

Nom Nom Nom

2010-03-16T14:01:00.002-07:00

Sunday Afternoon

2010-03-14T20:44:00.001-07:00

Kids These Days

2010-03-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

Still trying to wrap my head around some of the stuff he does.

Ahhh, Monday

2010-03-01T15:09:00.000-07:00

After Sunday was awash in rain it was nice to head out the door under sunny skies. Just a little spin on a Monday morning. Being semi-retired is kinda fun!

Rialto River was flowing after all the recent rain and from the snow melt in the Catalina and Rincon Mountains.

Arrived home to find a package. Heeey, Slacker Central?

Thanks Dave for all the DC shwag! I needed some new socks and a nice wool hat for those cool mornings on the bike.

The Big Apple

2010-02-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

Off to NYC for Libby's brother's wedding. Just a quick trip to visit their new home and we were treated to some nice weather. Stayed in Tribeca at the Smyth Hotel; a little swanky hip hotel on the strip.

Custom paint job.

At the Houston airport this cart broke down right in front of the gate with a blown front tire. Thing was just abandoned there, forcing passengers to walk all around it. Call AAA.

Wedding day at The City Court.

You know, the best time to buy your wedding ring is only moments before exchanging vows. Good thing City Court had a wedding gift shop!

The wedding party.

Pontificating life...just turned 30, baby on the way and now getting married.

The peanut gallery.

Husband and wife.

Libby and her brother Jay.

Hit up the Museum of Modern Art to get cultured and stuff.

Nothing like seeing some exhibits with a thousand of your closest friends!

Snapshot of airliner flight pattern over the continental US.

HIPSTER SAFARI!!!!!
In an effort to capture the once ever-elusive hipster in its native environment, I donned some urban camo of my own to blend in. Converse Chucks!

An essential component to any hipster wardrobe are some tight pants. Preferably, the tighter the better. Acid washed always works. Also, take note of this urbanite's rolled down high top Converse. Apparently, this technique is applied when the feet get a little warm.

Here, this urbanite hipster is taking in a bit of culture whilst wearing his baby sister's pants. Upon closer inspection, the standard issue hipster carabiner key chain is noticeable clipped into waist band.

Here we have a fine specimen displaying the cornucopia that is the hipster wardrobe. One part 80's vintage neon garb, one part child's backpack, throw in a knitted scarf from grandma, some leggings and a pair of neon high-tops and you've got a recipe for success!

You're not the only one shooting a hipster documentary!

Yard Sale!

Hey, nice suspenders...wait a second...that's just a sweater!

The hipster's choice for mode of transportation...fixed gear with an eclectic mix of parts akin to their wardrobe.

Here we have Opus the hipster poet, documenting his affection for all things tight and neon.

Hipster standard issue handlebars. Quite the rarity to see two brake levers! A hipster with two brakes on their bike is like having training wheels.

And lastly, Hipster Moving Company.

Dude's Week VII

2010-02-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

Close to 7 years ago a bunch of friends banded together during a winter retreat from college classes and Dude's Week was conceived. In the past Colorado has hosted the annual Dude's Week activities stretching from Keystone, Crested Butte to Pagosa Springs. A consensus was reached to step outside our boundaries and see what Park City, Utah had to offer. Behold, the 7th Annual Dude's Week!

Our Mormon ski challet

When pulling into the garage, it would behoove the vehicle operator to look before running over pairs of skis sprawled on the floor. Thanks Doster!

Over the past years nicknames were earned for better or for worse. What better way to commemorate Dude's Week than with a shirt and your nickname emblazoned on the back for all to see!

Time to drink up!

Dude's Week wouldn't be complete without 99 Bananas!

Getting 13 dude's together is akin to herding cats.

Day Two:

Jupiter Bowl, Park City

In anticipation of the evening's festivities, Noah got his hair done up real fancy like!

And then Colonel Mustard decided to make a guest appearance.

"Did you know turtle necks are making a comeback? Guess what my coat's made out of!"

Up in the VIP

"This better not be 2.3%!"

Fist pumpin' like champs!

Meow!

Dancing Queen doing what he does best...DANCE!

Dude's Week recipe #74...
Step 1. Add copious amounts of alcohol.

Step 2. Get on the table.

Step 3. Dance your a$$ off.

Step 4. Shake it. A lot.

Step 5. Like white on rice, the women flock to Colonel Mustard. WTF???

Michael Michael Motorcycle dreaming about embroidered leather saddle bags on his Harley...

She works hard for her money

Bottoms up and then it was back to the dude challet for a game of caps.

Discussing strategy

Some people had a little too much fun.
"You know Flynny, as a rule of thumb when you're on the bridge at Treasure Island in Las Vegas..."

And just like that, the 7th Annual Dude's Week came to a close. Park City was a great time, despite their strange liquor laws, warm beer, side cars and the LDS. The trip wasn't even over yet and we're already making plans for the 8th Annual trip. Nice work Dudes!

Worm Hole Time Continuum

2010-01-17T20:28:00.000-07:00

And just like that, a decade has passed. I'm still trying to fathom where the time has gone. That was 10 years, yet it seemed like just yesterday I was an undergrad meandering through school, enjoying life with few cares in the world. From dreams of becoming a climbing guide, yearning to drop off the radar and chase ski town life, what I previously loathed I became; Corporate. Risk management, compliance, power lunches, staff development, mitigation, synergy and legal. Just keep passing the cake, Milton...Now, after heeding my parent's wishes, and thoroughly understanding the necessity for new challenges and continuing my education, I embark on a new adventure. Welcome to the Eller MBA, where the next 18 months will be spent immersed in study.

Before my program of higher education commenced, Libby and I headed to the Chiricahua Mountains to ring in the new year.

Yeah, no hang gliders!

I love the dutch oven!

Ring-tail cat

With temps dropping into the low teens in Cold Canyon, the dogs headed to bed a little early.

Everything but the kitchen sink!

Cabin Loop!

2009-08-12T18:35:00.001-07:00

Having never been on an overnighter/ bikepacking trip, I took the opportunity. Thanks to Yuri for the use of the gear and Gordon for showing the way. Cabin Loop, northeast of Payson had me wondering if I was actually in AZ.

What's that Dave? You'll see us in 3 hours on the trail?

Bivi, sleeping bag, GPS and feedbag.

Absolutely some of the finest singletrack I've ridden in the state.
Came up on a controlled burn. Forst Service had closed sections of the forest and trail networks in the weeks leading up to our arrival. Calls to the F.S. confirmed they were open, but still got a little hairy when the smoke was billowing our way and the plane flying overhead.

First cabin.

Punched out 30 miles fully loaded. Just wiped and time for bed.

Second cabin and where we stayed the night; Pinchot Cabin.

Third Cabin.

Fern lined singletrack. Nom, nom, nom, just motoring thru.

A little Duct tape will hold that pipe leak!

Fourth Cabin.

A quick check of the GPS confirmed it was late and this was the last water we'd have before returning to Pinchot cabin for another night. Might as well stay in this nice canyon.

Set up camp only to walk around the corner and find a mo-bettah place to stay. Grab yer stuff.

Much flatter, nice fire ring and easier access to water.

In the morning a nice pedal back to the car.

Looked like Dave's leaveitis didn't affect him this time. Sorry Dave.

Escaping The Oven

2009-08-05T14:58:00.001-07:00

Once the temps reach 100+ degrees the valley floor becomes too hot to tolerate. Mt. Lemmon provides quite the respite and we wanted to find a new camp spot where travelers are a rare site. Water being the only determinant of just how far in you can go, it was nice to discover a pure spring atop the hill. A short 2 mile hike from the observatory you will find stunning views and a rarely used camp spot.

Libby introducing the dogs to mountain spring water.

After several weekends of camping in the pines, we headed to Sedona for a mini-moon. Time to celebrate the marriage and do a little hiking. West Fork of Oak Creek was just the place to escape the temps and do some exploring.

A New Addition

2009-07-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

After 4+ years, the day finally arrived. Destination- Santa Barbara for a week of fun with our families and friends. A year of planning behind us it was now time to enjoy the fruits of our labor.

Not a bad way to start the day. Coffee, pool and some sun.

We went wine tasting for a day...

The boys played a little golf while the girls were treated to spa day.

For the rehearsal dinner we had 30 lobsters flown in from Maine.

"You know, it's not too late to get out of here..."

Clergyman Wood

The in-laws

And things wouldn't be complete without serenading the bride!

Up n' Over The Hill

2009-04-03T16:45:00.000-07:00

For the past 3 years it's eluded me. Something always came up, until now. With several weekends of long rides under my belt I felt I had the legs to give it a go. And why not? I had the time and the weather was in the 70's. I've ridden 100 plus miles on the road more times than I care to recall, but 100 miles on a mountain bike is a little different. The added rolling resistance from the nobbies, different gearing, 'er, scratch that last one, but it's no walk in the park. And throw in one gear to make things a little more interesting!

Just a slight hill thrown in the mix and 8936 ft. of climbing by the end of the day.

I think I have enough stuff... I went thru 200 oz. of water and four large water bottles by the end of the ride. I wanted to ensure that I was properly hydrated and consumed enough calories. Maybe it was too much since my stomach was upset most of the ride from digestion and I stopped probably every 20 minutes to drain. However, this was not the ride to bonk on.

Wake up call came early and unfortunately, Brendan was running a little late. Sure was chilly standing in the dark at 5:30am.

Between Bear Canyon and Windy Point my pedal decided to break. WTF? I was just riding along...Since Brendan didn't have a spare left eggbeater pedal in his pack we made some phone calls and found Dan more than happy to drive thru town and up Mt. Lemmon highway to drop off a new pedal. Now that is a friend!

We continued rolling up the hill where Dan finally passed us and jumped out. Like pit lane in NASCAR, I pulled in, jumped off and handed the bike over for a quick pedal change. A pat on the back and a handshake later, we were rolling on.

Stopped at Palisades for water only to discover that the Forest Service hasn't put the hose nozzle on yet. In the winter they remove it and replace it in the summer months which is a refueling station when riding up.

Quick safety check before committing and dropping in for 29 miles of dirt to the town of Oracle. I knew there was a reason we brought our mountain bikes!

Looking back you can see the highest point on the mountain and where we came from. Still around 50 miles to go.

Brendan's face says it all: ugh. The sun was beating down on us and we were a little tired. Keep pedaling.

Once we turned on Oracle Rd. the spirits lifted. Home was insight, albeit some 40 miles off in the distance.

Spun out with one gear, Brendan provided a nice refuge from the wind and I was able to draft. It definitely helped having a friend along for the ride to share in the sights, jubilation and suffering.

The GPS doesn't lie. Not a bad day on the bike. Now I can add this to my list of "things done once and no desire to do again," right under skydiving.

TMP Oddities

2009-03-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

Had some time on my hands so Matt, Brendan and I ventured out to Tucson Mountain Park to explore. Left the house at 7:45am and didn't come home 'til 5pm. Another good day on the bike.

Quick stop at Cafe Paraiso and then off to Starr Pass.

Ducked under Ajo Road and headed to the new Robles Trails.

More tunnels.

Hmm, we need to be on the other side of this fence...

Made our way over to the boy scout camp for lunch.

Matt realized that he was low on water and climbing Golden Gate wouldn't be a good idea, so we pedaled to a nearby Circle K.

Circle K number 1.

Oh, so it's going to be one of those kinds of rides.

Almost at the top of Golden Gate looking back where we came from.

Beer Stop!

Matt determined to make the empty can fit into his pack.

Circle K number 2 and time for more beers. After all, it was on our way to more trail.

Still raining back in town, and hey, I have one more beer in my pack...

I've ridden TMP for years and never knew about this rock wall/dam, nor the single track leading you there.

We rode out 36th St. and headed for more dirt. Riding thru an open gate led to some washes, some random desert trails, a stint in the ghetto and more washes.

Riding thru this random storm drain/wash led us to a catwalk. Some guy leaned over the fence upon hearing us below and recognized Matt. Wha?

Turns out the guy was instrumental in building/developing the Robles Trails and led us thru his property to more washes!

We popped out by the Pima County jail and took the Santa Cruz river path back to town.

Then on Sunday Libby and I headed out to the Pistol Hill section of the AZ Trail where we met up with my Dad and Spiker.

South Lake Debauchery

2009-03-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Thirteen descended upon South Lake Tahoe for several days of alcohol induced shenanigans and skiing. From San Diego to as far east as NYC and Boston, my bro's came to send me off in style.

Valet shuttle service in the Lincoln Towncar. Sure those ski bags will fit...

With nearly a foot of fresh in the past 24 hours, Sierra was a wise choice!

Peops didn't start arriving until the next afternoon.
These boys mean business, getting started prior to 8am.

Later that night...

Quail egg shooter. Mmmm!

3am breakfast at the casino, this guy was about to fall out of his chair.

4am shenanigans. Thanks fellas!

7:45am roll call

Hey, whatcha drinking Senior Basura? You should feel pretty good after going to bed at 8:30pm last night.

Who's flying this plane?

Kirkwood

"Yeah, just another 15 minute hike over that ridge."

BIG THANK YOU to Jason for playing tour guide and showing us all that Kirkwood had to offer!

Heeey, nice Bogner one piece!

It would be rather tough considering that's a T-bar.

More hiking...

Ah yes, Guido Von Schlesser was there, too!

This fellow was wearing what appeared to be a 3/2mm wetsuit with a net shirt buttoned over it. For close to 30 minutes (per Walker standards) he pointed to the slopes. NOICE!

After Trashy serenaded the Argentinian girls, "don't cry for me Argentina!" they apparently didn't want any 99 Bananas.

A store downstairs in the hotel. Best mannequins I've ever seen.

The 'ol ball and chain. Special treat wearing this to dinner!

Heavenly was rather a yawn. Plus the hordes of skiers didn't help matters.

Ah yes, the place where the Tahitian diver from the Steal A Wish Foundation pocketed coins from the fountain.

I consider it a great success; no one spent the night behind bars and no one lost their shirt at the casino.
Thanks boys!

10th Annual 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo

2009-02-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

Sweet Ride!

Yuri on the Le Mans start.

Katie remarking, "Yeah, we'll kick some ass."

Chris Walker's stunt double.

The Woods' came out to cheer with their 'lil bruiser, Ryan.

Siren Cycles

Brendan had a pretty nice display of bikes.

Katie's new single speed on display.

Libby feeling good after her first lap.

Where we met five years ago. Somewhat of an anniversary.

Plus, it was Valentine's Day. The little lady outdid herself with the cake.

Hey, what's on tv?

Team Hosie Cow had the beer flowing through the night.

Special camp guest; Dave the Gnome.

Some other gnome...

Chris Walker's stunt double being welcomed back to town after an evening lap.

1:30am. Frazzled after riding 3/4 of the course without a light. Following wheels thru cactus-lined trail tests the nerves.

Free Vodka!
Saw this guy before I went out on my last lap. I decided to stop for my free vodka and consumed half a cup. Needless to say, I was drunk by the time I rode WAHOO rock.

Katie and team won the women's 4 person and beat team Luna Chicks.

Team Pussy Power.

Thanks for playing!

2009-02-11T17:13:00.000-07:00

What started out looking like a great morning for a ride soon soured with the greeting of "anyone got a spare seat clamp bolt?" WTF, mate?

Technically, it was four things.

Nathan drilled out the stripped bolt and rigged Walker something special.

1. Seat clamp bolt.
2. Valve stem torn off inner tube.
3. After bummin a spare tube, tear in tire sidewall becomes apparent upon inflation.
4. Freshly bummed tube punctures, thus ending Walker's day before he even clipped in.

DEAN. Don't Expect Anything but Neglect.

"Hey, did you check that tire for thorns?"

Looks like we weren't the only ones having fun in the parking lot.

Screw you guys. Going home.

JePh dropping in.

Old Growth Cholla and B-Sides

2009-02-03T18:40:00.000-07:00

A group assembled drawing Walker and Devin from PHX. The plan was to search out some of the new "alt" or B-side lines in upper 50 Year Trail. With no real agenda or time to abide by, we embarked on 5 hour adventure.

Hey, are those the new SPD Chuck Taylor's?

Despite leaving his shoes and helmet at home, Tony still charged.

Safety Meeting

Off to Sonorasaurus.

Walker dominated the climb out with his totally huge calves!

The Peanut Gallery.

Time for the False Diddler to make the climb.

Hurricane Sized Hangover

2009-01-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

Jeff, Sean and I headed out to 50 Year to find some new lines. After two days of steady rain, the trails were nice and tacky and the slickrock was dry. To our surprise we were the only riders out there.

8:00am doorbell interrupted my drunken slumber. A quick tabulation in my head of prior evening's consumption failed to elicit the true culprit of my inebriation. That is until I stepped into the kitchen and saw this starring back at me. Damn! Apparently, it seemed like a good idea to throw down some Hurricane rum around midnight.

Riding up Middle Gate we noticed a new trail. Was it a cattle track or recently tamped down singletrack? Our suspicions were confirmed and we were awarded with some very technical trail.

Accountabilabuddy required here. Don't fall in the crack.

Trashy doing a little dance on the catwalk.

Jeff shows us another line.

Economic Housing Stimulus

2009-01-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Dubbya for the economic stimulus tax rebate! The house was showing its age and the hardwood floors needed a little TLC. We decided to stimulate the house with our stimulus checks and put in a little sweat equity.

Before: Plenty of nicks and scratches.

After too many sanding applications to remember, the floors were ready to seal and coat.

Next up: the guestbedroom. Fix cracks, remove wallboard and paint.

Demo is fun!

Chipping lead-based paint.

A nice 'home run' crack spanned the entire ceiling.

After: fixed with some joint compound.

No need to tape off the walls. I've got a steady hand and spent some time as a painter in a previous life. Not too bad if I may say so myself.

AZE- Kentucky Camp

2008-12-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

Arizona Endurance Series was hosting the Kentucky Camp Epic. Yuri and self decided to partake and ride the ride, as opposed to those who were there to race. We were treated to sunny skies and relentless wind.

Yeah, and partying, too!

Sunset the first night.

50 some people showed up to ride, considering this was a free, grassroots event.

Mt. Wrightson in the distance. Keep climbing.

Let's see c'here...Was that a right or a left turn?

Lunch time!

Dropin' the Lemmon

2008-10-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

With several guys coming down from Phoenix, a group ride was in order. The temps were still too warm to ride down low so Lemmon was the venue. Twelve of us would make the run from the top down to Molino Basin. Two flats less than 20 minutes into the ride were later parlayed into 1 torn pair of shorts, one daring Sadcow who cut the ass out of Dane's shorts, two gents riding thru and/or stepping in human feces in the middle of the trail, one run over snake and one very patient rattler.

Nice of you to join us, Senior Basura!

Count 'em...12 riders

Trail Junction: Carter Canyon Trail: Circa 1880's

Trail Steward Cooper demonstrates the importance of a properly irrigated tree

Cousins!

How's that saladito taste, Todd?

"Riding all this singletrack sure gives me wood!"

How it all went down: 'Get Owda Mah N'Yah!'

Gooseberry Mesa, Utah

2008-09-02T18:51:00.000-07:00

After much discussion and a dose of beratement, it was decided that we'd head to Southern Utah for a weekend of riding. Gary, Devo, Salty Bahti, Spiker, Jeffro, Josh 'The Prick', guest appearance by KYLE!!! and self decsended upon Gooseberry Mesa. 5 rides in 3 days and a combination plate of some of the finest riding the area had to offer.

"What chu lookin at, holmes?"

We have arrived!

Not a bad view.

To the north, the palacial high rise, and to the south, shanty town. Nice lean-to boys!

"Can I get an official ruling on that?"

Crew Leader Cooper-

"And then, we'll ride over c'here"

Shortly after this picture was taken, Cooper decided it would be best to crush his beer can with his Sidi. After two failed attempts, upon his third try the beer can shot off the cliff. Smooth move! See any reflective objects in the pic below, just under the ridge?

Day Two

It's a looong way down

Day Three

Hey, Josh, nice headbadge. Who dunnit?

The gate into Zion. No riding in them thar hills, boys.

Yuri doing his best cougar immitation

Slickrock Swamp

KYLE!!!

Later that afternoon, Cooper puts on a clinic.

"Who's got a dime? Eh? Watch me shoot this dime!"

Yeehaw, Bucky Bronco!

The requisite "Gid owda mah N'yeh!"

Heeeey, ladies. They call me the Prick.

Back to reality and the rat race...

The Source

2008-08-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

We set off for town to pick up some fresh fruit and the daily catch. A short bus ride later, we were bartering for goods that had arrived earlier that morning from Dominica.

Our agenda was to hike The Source- a trail which follows the pipeline bringing fresh water from the spring high upon Mt. Nevis. Starting at the Golden Rock Plantation, the trail climbs through neighborhoods and turns into steep singletrack.

Somewhere below the trail continues. Deep in the rainforest this was no place to take any risks, as I'm sure the locals wouldn't be too enthusiastic about rescuing some gringos.

We had built up quite an appetite after our hike and it was time to prepare the day's catch. Libby haggled with the fisherman for the large fish with a series of hand jestures and nods while the smaller ones were given to us for free.

Tropical fish, plantains, jambalya spiced rice, veggies and a cold Carib to wash it all down.

Asking the Question

2008-06-27T18:27:00.000-07:00

Our second cottage was well-positioned up the street from the botanical gardens. We started the morning off with with our staple of fresh fruits, juice and cakebread and headed out. Today would be the day where I forged a new life with Lysbeth and I couldn't be happier...or any more nervous!

The Botanical Gardens

Where I asked, and she said yes!

Off to celebrate.

Just a slight walk downhill, where we caught a ride with a priest who had moved to Nevis as part of his mission. One stop by the jail to drop off fresh fruits from his garden and soon we arrived at
Sunshine's Bar and Grill. Mt. Nevis in the background.

The Neighborhood

2008-06-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

We packed our things and headed to our second cottage for the week. This time we would relocate to a more densely populated area of the island, and further up the mountain. Here is a view of the main house looking on from our cottage.

Our humble abode. The ocean is visible in the distance.

Wild goats, monkeys and donkeys inhabit the island, roaming free.

After settling in we were off to see our new neighborhood. We stopped by The Hermitage Plantation for drinks and dinner.

Wedding Day

2008-06-18T22:09:00.001-07:00

Rubbing elbows with New York socialites, District Attorneys, a former CNN anchorman and writer for The Rolling Stone, and a foxy DJ flow in from NYC, we knew this wedding wouldn't disappoint

The Four Seasons

The ceremony took place at Cottle Church, which was built in 1824 on Thomas Cottle's plantation as a place where his family and slaves could worship together. Cottle church was one of the first Angilic churches where interracial prayer was encourged.

Rico Suave!

And then it started to rain. No worries as it's great to be blessed on your wedding day.

I present to you our DJ, Sky Nellar. Oh yeah, she used to model too. Meow kitty

You know the wedding's a hit when you're diving in bushes at the Four Seasons! Hey honey, how's the hip?

St. Kitts & Nevis, West Indies

2008-06-18T20:57:00.001-07:00

Libby and I were off to the Caribbean for a wedding and decided to extend our stay. After all we both could use a vacation. Tucson-Dallas-Jacksonville overnight-Miami-St. Kitts and then a short ferry ride to Nevis, West Indies. Whew, we're there!

Quick taxi ride to the docks

Time for my first Carib!

Uh-oh, it's the fuzz

Everything on an island needs to be brought in, of course.
Packed in with the goods on a ferry trip to Nevis

Our first cottage

View from the deck

Then off down the beach

Nevisian breakfast of fresh pine, fruitcakes and sour sop juice

Riding with Dad

2008-05-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

It's not every day you get to ride with your dad. That being said I take advantage when ever he's in town. Looking back, it was my dad who introduced me to what I know consider an afinity for bikes. From my old bmx days to waking at 4am to drive me to out of town races, tearing down single track in Idaho and the local weekend road ride, Dad's been there for me.

School's out and it's 6am on Sunday. No cars in sight.

Met up with dad on the road.

Thanks for the draft!

Hey, are you guys riding too?

Food for thought...

Stone House x 2

2008-05-25T11:04:00.001-07:00

A low pressure front moved through parts of the Southwest, bringing a tornado to Denver, CO, cancelling the Iron Horse Classic in Durango due to snow, snow falling in Flagstaff and rain in Tucson with plenty of clouds and cooler temps. Spiker and I headed to Tucson Mountain Park to enjoy the weather. Just earlier this week it was 101 degrees! Global weirding?
CDO trail to the first stone house, over to the newer 36th Street trails and the second stone house, back into Starr Pass basin, up CDO to benchcut, around the bend to some lesser known trails. Fine time to be on the bike.

What's with the clouds? This is May, right?

And then we ride over there...

Second stone house above 36th street trails

Stairway to heaven
This time next week I'll be sitting on a beach in the Carribean

Kentucky Camp

2008-04-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

Sean, Jeffro, Chris and I headed south to Kentucky Camp for what would be the last time to ride this trail before the heat takes full effect. A short drive from Tucson, the landscape quickly changes to rolling hills and grasslands while offering another view of Mt. Wrightson. With several leg burning climbs and a little altitude thrown in, it would be quite an adventure on the single speed. The GPS data; 26.4 miles with 3,163 ft. of total climbing and topping out at just over 6,902 ft. However, my legs and body tell another tale; I swear that seemed closer to 40 miles!

So, you work for Exxon, huh?

Are you experienced?

You gunna eat that?

Time for a soak in the shade

My dogs are barking!

The Kentucky Camp

Proper! Until next year...

Lemmon Drop

2008-04-06T19:55:00.000-07:00

Jeffro, Spiker, Trashy, Adam, Chris and I made up the "locals" contingency. RideAZ folks complete with D/H bikes made the trip down from PHX. 18 of them to be exact. Our plans to start above the ski area were scuttled by snow and ice. When the locals say the trail's unrideable, they are probably on to something. We were split into the sayers and naysayers. Looks like the sayers seized the day.

Temp at Sumerhaven: 48 degrees

Catch me ridin' dirty

Hey, where'd the trail go?

Rest Stop #1

Bug Springs, up, up, up

Smiles all around

The plan was to finish out thru Milligrosa. We all agreed we'd gotten our money's worth. It could be done, but it wouldn't be pretty. Jeff had committed to leading the Ride AZ gang, so he was stuck dealing with mechanical after mechanical, interupted by the occasional spill. The locals came out with zero flats, zero mechanicals and only one brush with a rock.

It will take some time for the upper trails to thaw out. Damn, what a great day!

Afternoon Pedal

2008-04-06T17:59:00.000-07:00

Weather was too nice to stay indoors. Decided to venture out to TMP for a pedal and shakedown before the Lemon Drop on Saturday

Amsterdam, Netherlands

2008-04-06T17:20:00.000-07:00

Libby traveled to Amsterdam to visit her good friends Linda, Joel and the munchkins

see if you can find the bicycle...

Meet the neighbors

Libby and her Mom

Mike's Bike Tours- World Famous!

New Ride

2008-03-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

Overdue gratuitous new bike photos

-Niner One frame
-Reba Race fork
-Industry Nine Single Speed hubs
-Bontrager XXX Lite Carbon kit
-Avid Juicy 7 brakes
Sub 20lbs.

North Bound

2008-03-17T12:58:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I headed to PHX to visit Howie, Walker and Yuri. Red Mtn Epic was on the menu with Yuri leading the charge. Great ride left me wondering why I haven't ventured North sooner?

Yuri's perspective
Harry's take
And Walker too

The wildflowers were in full bloom signaling the arrival of Spring. Allergies will soon follow...
The knee is a little sore and some research on my part has me thinking I hurt the Patella Tendon. It's rather fibrous and contains a layer of fat. Hopefully my diagnosis is correct and the 1-2cm of initial displacement occured in the fat layer. Heck, I rode out at least 5 miles and was able to drink some cervesas afterwards so it can't be all that bad.

Libby's in Amsterdam visiting her friends for another week. Don't know which hurts more: missing her or wishing I was there with her.... Yeah, wish I was there too.