The Prairie Peddler

Swift XL frame sale!

2012-01-19T07:54:00.000-08:00

Good morning! I'm sitting on some first gen XL Swift frames I'd love to send out to some new owners! Cool, you say! But how much? $500 cheap! Standard prep included, I face the headtube and disctabs, as well as coat the tubes with frame saver.

Need to make some room, pick one of these up soon!

Gryphons and Osprey's on the dock!

2011-12-13T11:24:00.000-08:00

Greetings all you Singular fans! I've got good news regarding the much desired Gryphons, and new Osprey's. They're in customs and about to be broken out of jail there. I've got a couple of the Gryphons pre-sold, but there will still be plenty left. I hope! The Osprey road frames will be ready to ship out too.

Since we're pushing items to sell, and its winter, lets see if I can get off load some items I've been hanging on to!

I have a 180mm E13 SS crank set/bb NIB.
$215

A White Industries Dos 17/19 free wheel, NIB.
$100

And XTR M975 Hydro brake kit. The levers and calipers have been used a bit, but the centerlock rotors are new.
$200

A NEW Redline D440 in a 17". Super nice cromo frame and fork that are ready for a disc brake up grade. Solid mid level parts package.
$540

A NEW Torker T300 3 speed city bike. Sturmey Archer 3 speed coaster brake hub, rack and fenders, all part of the purchase price. 19".
$320

A SWEET new Torker KB2 urban ripper. Sturmey Archer 2 speed kick back coaster brake hub. Cromo frame. Surly Open Bars, Race Face stem. 19".
$390

On the used front, there's a nice Trek 7000 mtb. This would make a great little entry level mtb for bashing about in the woods. 17".
$280

I've also got a nice Pilot 2.1 I'm selling for a customer. Triple front gearing, 10 speed rear, with a mix of Ultegra and 105 parts. Its got a fresh tune up. Carbon rear stays, and carbon fork. Comfortable century geometry. 56cm.

Hummingbirds and Osprey's!

2011-08-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

After a loooong and busy break from posting[yes, I'm still in business folks! Just busy as all get out!], I return with good news! The new Singular Osprey road bikes are very soon to arrive. I have 10 for now, and if they're popular, we'll get more of this great road bike in the next order.

Speaking of next orders, Gryphons and Kites are going to be ordered up here very soon. I've talked to many of you folks about the Gryphon, if you'd like to get in on this order, I'll be taking $300 deposits on them starting now. I'll put that all into a kitty for the day to order them up. Let me know what size you're after. The next batch will, due to popular demand, have rack and fender mounts! Huzzah!

In order to stimulate the next order, I'm also having a clearance sale on the Hummingbirds I have in stock. For the rock bottom price of $480, you can grab one of these sweet, versatile bikes. My wife LOVES hers.

The eight version of the venerable Gnomefest is coming up in a month too! I'll have as many bikes there as I can for demo purposes. Ride and enjoy! We went up to the Squirrel Fest at the Cuyuna Trails in MN earlier this year and sent folks out on riders there. That was a great time! we'll be back up there for sure.

Introducing: Singular Firebird.

2011-01-28T08:56:00.000-08:00

Thus far Singular has been known for the most part for producing really nice looking, affordable steel mountain bikes and monstercross bikes. Just last year Sam decided to try his hand at moving a bit up market with the Pegasus titanium mountain bike. Its made by Nevi in Italy. While geometry on it is fixed at standard Singular settings[not bad thing at all mind you], you can customize the frame as you see fit in regards to drivetrain options. These are produced in limited production runs[preorders happening NOW if you'd like in!], and the first was a smashing success.

So what about this FireBird? It belongs to MK, one of Wisconsin's strongest female racers, and long time Singular rider. She predates Singulars being sold here in the shop by a year or so. She had her road bike stolen while at college, and one thing led to another. Sam said he was thinking of a Ti road project, much like the Ti mountain project. Next thing you know, Sam had one at the London Bike show, and we had one here at the shop shortly there after! I must say, this thing is a mighty piece of work.

The taper on the headtube[1.125/1.5] is stunning. I've seen other ideas for tapered headtubes out there, but they're machined, and have that sharpedge machined look to them. Not all that appealing. This is much more fluid, more organic. I'm sure its hydro formed, but I'm only guessing on that. No matter. Its a thing of beauty.

The chainstays also have a very nice taper to them. Larger at the bottom bracket, slimmer at the drop out. No silly shapes, just a gentle ovalization. The dropouts are nice and big, with large hooded surfaces for the stays to attach to.

Just like on the Pegasus, the Singular logo is etched into the downtube in a really, really nice and understated way. Copper in color for the bands and letters, with a matte finish panel. The rest of the frame is brushed for a nice, no nonsense industrial look.

MK's dad said that the frame looks like it means business. No real games to play, just straight forward performance. I'd have to agree. And with a planned Enve fork to match the rest of the SRAM Force build kit, this bike WILL mean all business. And go damned fast.

If this is something you're interested in, and I know I am, Sam would love to be able to set you up. Since Nevi is MUCH closer to him, it makes sense that he takes care of the sales on this one.

Happy weekend!

Listening to: ...Godspeed you Black Emeporer

The shop! It is Aliiiivvee!

2011-01-23T20:47:00.000-08:00

Hello dear reader[s]! I bet you guys thought I forgot about this place! This is not the case. No, not at all. We've been having a cold, hard winter here in the hinterlands, and I've been hunkered down working a side construction job. Just not much time to update here. No more though! y'all have my full and unparalleled attention.

I've been getting a couple projects in to work on as folks begin gearing up for the season. Some involved repairs, and some fun wheels to build. Some touring wheels, a set of White Industries single speed road....good fun stuff.

The Prairie Peddler has always had as a mission a call to arms to introduce culture to Prairie du Chien. We did that with some open jams that eventually led to the formation of a band, and have [and still do] carry and sell some art in the store. Coming up on the the 31st of January, we're going to expand that repetoir a bit and host a show. Clear out the bikes for a moment, and play some nice, loud music. A good friend of the shop, and uber talented singer/rapper/cowpoke Sandman is on tour promoting his movie "Roll Out Cowboy"

He'll be up at the Winona Frozen Film festival this week, and stopping by Decorah on his way through the area. He's got a day off, and will be putting on a show here with us! Also appearing will be Blake Auler Murphy, a talented LaCrosse rhymesayer.

Here's the text from the official invite from FaceBook:
[quote]Wahoo! Winter culture strikes PdC!
Join us for a cozy house show, hosted at the Prairie Peddler.
Kindly share a $10 donation towards the cause--students are 2 for one!

Come see Chris Sand, "The Sandman" as they say, as he gives us a big dose of his prolific cowboy-flavored hip hop of the tip-tops. He's touring the country, spreading his words and sharing his award winning feature length film "Rollout Cowboy", straight out of North Dakota. He is thoughtful, quoting many prophets dead and alive and man, is he funny!
Blake Auler Murphy , a La Crosse rhymesayer opens. Expect other Special Guests.
Light refreshments will be available and BYOB is fine-
We are soooo lucky to have these people share their work with us. You will be so lucky, too. This is memorable stuff.[/quote]

And after three months off the bike, this will be marking the beginning of a new riding season for me. Back on the horse in every way we can be here at the shop! Coming soon, some Singular updates, a couple customer rides I'd love to show off and some more imagery that we all love. Till then, stay warm and lets get the season rolling!

Good news!

2010-11-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

All the way around this time.

Firstly, the batch of Singular Swift frames is FINALLY out of customs! Tentative delivery date is this Thursday. Those of you waiting will get your frames shipped out as they were ordered, I will work my hardest to make sure they leave by Friday if they really DO arrive here in the shop Thursday.

I also just got my re supply of Phil's eccentrics. Something about being caught in a data loop for 12[*really?* 12 days stuck in a holding pattern? wtf?], so those waiting on blemmed frames will also be getting yours soon! FWIW, I still have a couple of those. Call if you're interested!

And finally, a little bit of patience pays off. We will be staying on in the current location! A little bit of work will be done to the shop, but in the end, it'll be SO worth it!

Ta ta for now. We'll talk again soon.

News and Changes!

2010-11-16T10:56:00.000-08:00

Whew! The Singular Sale was a damned good success, I got a lot more riders out there on new Singular rigs! Unfortunately, the Medium Swifts never did arrive in time for the sale, so those of you looking at mediums were left out.

No so anylonger! They are here, and the sale is being extended through December 12 for those of you wanting in on the Singular brand! And to be fair to the rest of the sizes[and models] out there, sale prices are being extended on ALL the Singular products I have! Swifts, Hummingbirds and Peregrines! Sorry, no Gryphons or Kites as of yet.

We're also looking for dealers! If you know of a shop that wants to carry some Singulars, send them our way and we'll get them set up. We'd love to get more of these great bikes out there!

In other news, The Prairie Peddler will be moving soon! No worries, we're still in business, but we're going to take advantage of the cooler months here to do a proper move and get the new location up and running! Please use email, or my cell [608.412.2786]to contact us!

Nice bikes to sell! And some other stuff too.

2010-10-04T13:18:00.000-07:00

I've got a couple personal rigs here in the store I'd like to put on the market. The beloved Kelly CX bike and a Jamis Kromo dirtjumper. Both are in quite good shape. Details? Oh! Yeah. I can get you details.

Kelly CX:
I HATE to do this, but I've got to put this fantastic bike on the market. Those familiar with Kelly will know this as one of his most well thought out bikes made. Its a master of the cyclocross circuit. It eats gravel for breakfast. Road miles disappear beneath the wheels. The frame and fork are True Temper OX Platinum, a nice light, resilient smooth riding steel. Set up on the bike is 1x10, SRAM Rival rear mech, and double tap shifters. Cranks are M951 XTR with an FSA 36T single ring. Seat post is an XTR, headset is a Campy Chorus, stem a Felt, bars are Salsa Bell Laps. Wheels are new Mavic Aksium's shod with legendary Michelin Mud and Sprint tires.

Frame Geometry is traditional, level top tube for easy shouldering. There's lots of room in there for throwing in a shoulder. Seat tube measures 61cm, and the Top tube measures 61cm. I'm 6'5" and it fits very well.

Price? $1100 shipped.

The second bike up is the Jamis Kromo dirt jumper. Fun little rig here. The frame is a burly 4130 steel. Fork is a decent SR Duro with 100mm of travel. Brakes are upgraded from a single cable actuated disc to Avid Juicy 3's front and rear. Pedals are upgraded to Atom Labs as well. Cranks are nice steel three piece with micro gearing. Tires are Kenda KRad 2.35s. This is a fun bike to ride. Strength is its strong suit. It has never been jumped [I like the ground under my tires, not my face]. Its seen only a little dirt, mostly pavement from house to work and back. This is the long version of the frame for taller folks.

Price? $600 shipped.

Enjoy the perfect weather while we've got it!

Blemishes, oh my!

2010-09-28T14:29:00.000-07:00

As I prep frames, occasionally, I run across one that has been chipped or scratched in shipment from Taiwan. Bound to happen over such miles. My loss here is your gain! I have two Peregrines here in Medium that have chipped chainstays. One near the rear brake, one near the chainwheel/bottom braket area. Both are not totally noticable, and easily covered up with the right Testors match. Sale price on the Peregrines right now is $650. I'll be marking the blems at $625 permanently, or until sold. They come as frame fork and eccentric.

You can see, they're not bad, but I still can't sell them at full retail. $100 off should do it, eh?

2nd annual Singular Autumn Sale!

2010-09-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year again. The weather is perfect, and getting out to ride is high, very high on the list of things to do.

The sale is on frames I have in stock, or coming into stock. That would be Peregrines, and Swifts. I have all sizes of Peregrines ready to go, and Large and Xlarge Swifts here. I have Mediums and a few more Larges coming in early October. If you're of Medium stature, I'll be happy to take a $200 deposit and reserve a frame for you! Last year Mediums sold out quicker than I though they would, so I've ordered rather heavy on them this time. They are coming with a slightly shorter fork, and hipped chainstays for even better mud clearance.

Oh. You want the price too? Kind of an important item there, eh?

Peregrines are on sale for $650.
Swifts are on sale for $525.

With that price, you get the frame, fork, eccentric, headbadge and prep. I've even sold a few Swifts with out forks for those of you who know you're going straight to a suspension fork. I'll take $80 off the price tag if you'd like the frame that way.

In other news, the Singular demo fleet has been out and about! Last weekend we were up at GnomeFest 7 held at the Levis Trow Trail system. Was nice to know that at one point, all eight bikes were out on the trails!

Next up on the list is the Brown County Breakdown near Bloomington IN. If you're in that neck of the woods, and would like to try out either 29" wheels, drop bars, or single speeds, look for me! I'll be happy to get you set up with a ride.

There's been rumblings of having one in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area this fall yet too! Not sure if I'll do Lebanon or Murphy yet. Locals chime in!

Speaking of GnomeFest, here's a nice slide show to check out. This has become one of the premiere events to attend in the Midwest mountain bike scene. The trails at Levis Trow are awesome, and the group of folks that show up are top notch. It draws folks from IA, MN, WI, NE, IL and occasionally MI.

Some one turnd the heat off!

2010-08-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

And its finally pleasant around here. Riding in this coming week will indeed be good.

Last week it wasn't quite the case though. The WORS series had a meet up event with the MNSCS series for a knock down, drag out fight at the Border Battle in River Falls WI. I had heard a few good things bout the course. Nice flowing single track and a couple wide open grassy sections for ringing it out. I was pleasantly surprised to find that was indeed the case. Trails like this suit my abilities pretty well. What didn't really suit me though was the heat. Air temp upon arriving the night before was...HOT. Just sitting there with the girls and my parents we found ourselves sweating through our clothes. A glance off to the north saw some pretty intense lightening going on. It was my hope that it would make its way south to us. See, I LIKE riding in slippery, slimey conditions. Combine what was already a Marty friendly course with a bit'o rain, and things were looking up! Besides, rain should cool things of, right?

Wrong. It did indeed rain in the night. Hard. In about two hours the course got hit with about an inch or so of rain. The girls and I stayed dry in the tent, thankfully. No getting up wet was good. The temperatures certainly weren't cool though. By the time race start came up, air temp was easily in the mid 90's, and adding the humidity into the mix drove the heat index up north of 100. Good thing I had plenty of water.

image courtesy of Velogrrl
We got the start and off we raced, torwards the only significant hill on the course. Despite the heat, I'm feeling pretty good, and make up several spots on the climb. Once on top, the rains from the previous night show their effects. The open grassy sections are soft and wet. The trails in the woods are snotty and slippery, and I begin knocking off riders left and right. I'm digging it, letting the bike do its thing under me while I just keep pedaling. At the start I noticed that there were at least 14 or so Open SS riders. I noticed the dude on the Carbon Speccy SS. He's a fast guy I have no hope of catching, and two other guys look skinny and fast. I was right, and they took off right away on the climb, never to be seen again.

Back to the race. I keep working my way through the field, passing classes that started before the open guys. Thankfully, the organizers of the race [who also did the 24 hours of Wausau, more on that on the next post] were smart enough to have two water stations on course. Insead of drinking there, I had the volunteers splash me with water, keeping my body cool. That trick seemed to work as I was certainly hot, buy not dangerously so.

Next thing I know, the Elites start passing me. This hasn't happened yet this year, so I'm a bit dis heartened, but keep riding anyways. I'm far enough up though, that I'm also passing a few of the elite female riders, so I'm still doing ok. Thankfully, it was the last lap, and had really figured out the section of single track just before the last passing lane. That section was the most fun, dancing a weaving trail! If you rode it right, you could do it fast, and with hitting your brakes. The trail had dried enough to the point that in this part it was super tacky. Let the tires do thier job, and you could fly. And I did. It was great!

I rolled through the finish, hot and spent. Gobbled down a fair bit of watermellon and waited to see how I finished.

I got fourth! Certainly the best result I've had in a while. It always feels good to be up on the podium. Here's to more this year.

listening to: Shaun the Sheep!

Wausau24 this weekend!

2010-07-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

And that means one thing for sure; the shop will be closed on Saturday. That's the unfortunatel thing.

The GOOD thing is that the whole family will be up at the 9 Mile County Forest participating in the Wausau 24 mountain bike race. I'll be racing...er make that "racing" with Team Pugsley. And Lisa will be riding with a team as well too! Yep. Lisa. Race. Same sentence. She'll be rockin' the Singular Hummingbird she's grown to love. Of course I'll have the camera along, trying to get some cool shots. Got the cards cleaned off already. I think we're going to have something like 5 teams in the compound, with numerous children around, keeping the gnomes at bay.

in Singular news, I put an order in today for 30 mediums! I'll find out soon what a rough time line is for getting them in. My rough guess is going to be September at the earliest. I'm down to four Gryphons as well. Email me for size availability.

Listening to: Arcade Fire. And a fan, valiantly trying to keep me cool.

Repair, repair, repair!

2010-07-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

And here I am, popping up for air, and releasing a bit of news! We've been having a knock out summer here fixing and selling bikes. Good thing. I like being busy.

To keep me in that way, a nice, pleasant bit of news for you Singular fans! I got resupplied with a few more Gryphons. I now have five of them in stock, ready to ship out. I have one XL, one L and three M's. Same cost and prepwork as always, $590 plus shipping. Give us a call, and we'll get you set up!

In more bike news, the Haro's are starting to show up! They really have put out great looking bikes! The 2011's are to be released on Sept 1, and I'll be there to check them out. Can't wait! With Haro, I'll be able to get adult and BMX bikes, as well as Masi road bikes.

Speaking of road bikes...Got news today that I'm also Focus Bikes newest dealer. Another nice feather in the cap here. Check out Focus' website to find out more about these bikes. The thing I like most about them? No, not that they're all fancy and carbon, but that they happily take nice BIG 28c rubber! The local friendly rep had his bike here, and I popped my Continental Gatorskin 28's in with full on success. I may have a carbon bike in my future...

So if you're after road bike that DOESN'T start with a T, an S, or a G, I am more than happy to provide you with really nice options from Focus, Masi and or course Jamis!

In riding news, I'm happy to say that the local riding season has been flourishing! The Tuesday roads rides are always a good time, the women on Wednesday consistently pull in more riders than the men do, and the classic Saturday am ride simply can't get better. What's really turning my crank this season though, is the Monday mountain bike ride. They're turning into Kids Mountain Mondays! Its fantastic to be seeing kids out in the woods, enjoying the trails. This will certainly become a staple of the riding season for me. They're having fun, and so am I. For them, its not about going fast. Its just about being there, in the moment. Sometimes as adults, we certainly tend forget that.

A well. Off to work some more! Stop on in...I'll be happy to see you.

Listening to: Cicada's singing in the summer heat.

Gryphon Headbadges!

2010-06-01T11:43:00.000-07:00

There are five of you out there who got Gryphons with out headbadges. You know who you are! Send ma a quick email with your shipping address, and I"ll pop them in the mail for you!

Yep, Finally got them in!

Chequamegon 100.

2010-05-24T20:10:00.000-07:00

Rarely does it make sense to say that a thing was both the hardest, and yet funnest thing you've done. It takes a certain sort of individual to put those two phrases together in once sentence. A tad demented. A little bit off. A glutton for punishment. This is a story of being under prepared. And lucky. Really lucky.

See, I signed up to do this race early in the year when Tim and Joe first announced it. One hundred spots filled up in a matter of hours. I attribute this to two things. One; it was free. Really! Tim and Joe are strong proponents of the grass roots, minimal support[Joe has completed the Great Divide and also puts on the Trans Wisconsin, both free events]. the other reason is its Chequamegon, the king of Midwest single track. They were promising at least 80% single track content. That can't be bad, right? Back then, this event made all the sense in the world. I'm not really the most talented rider out there.

I'm a consistent mid pack finisher in nearly any race I do. Cyclocross or Mountain bike. Always midpack. Oh, I'll have an occasional good race, but overall I'm not particularly fast. I can ride pretty well technically, but I know folks that can ride my pants off that way too!

So I registered for the Chequamegon 100[AND the Lumberjack 100, more on that later], it was early in the year, and of course I could train and be ready for this, right?

ha! right.

I made it down to Austin, TX for a week of riding and racing. That would be a fantastic way to kick off the training. That and riding the Pugs a bunch over the winter months. Should be a good start, right? Sure was.

Problem was, that start wasn't really followed up with anything...Oh I rode my bike all right. Got plenty of road miles in. All in little spurts of 40 miles or less though. Oh, wait! One ride DID get over 60 miles. And it was a headwind the whole way. That should prepare me quite well.

Many of you who read this also know that I own and run a bike shop. This certainly takes up a bit of time to run. Then there's the family commitments too. But this is about bike riding. In the spring, EVERYONE wants to get out and ride, and its my job to make sure folks are able to do that. Spring hit, and here I am busy as all get out, repairing and selling bikes. Riding time took a dive. So I rode when I could.

So the fateful weekend arrives, I find Jeff to graciously cover the store for me and I drive up Friday night to Nater's inlaw's cabin near Spooner. Get there at 11ish after closing the store and leaving town at 6:30. Wake up at 4:15 to get ready and drive up for the 7am start time.

The start went well enough until about 3 miles in. Damned Shimano chain I had on the bike[converted to 1x9 for the race. Not doing something like that on a SS. I'll leave that to the crazies] snapped on me. Never broken a SRAM chain. Never. Why I put the Shimano on I don't know. Thankfully Andy came riding by and had a SRAM link that got me going. From that point on, Andy, Nate and I rode on. We also ran into a few guys from Mpls that were comfortable with out pace too. I think we had a group that changed from 5 to 10 depending on how strong riders were feeling.

The first section of 10 or so miles of single track was a private network that dumped us onto the Birkie trail until we were able to hook up with the Makwa trail for the next 30ish miles. The Makwa was an amazing peice of single track. You could frequently here comments of "THIS is what single track should be like" as we were hauling through the woods. I mean really. The trails there were just fantastic.

After the Makwa system, we were directed on to some forest service roads for about 10 miles. Telemark Road and Rock Lake Road are what you would think would be restful. Problem is that hills on the roads were actually HILLS. On trail, the route is coutoured, so you're never really sure you're climbing that far. Much easier to climb on trail vs. on the road. So that took a ton of energy out of us. The road section took us up to the Namekegon single track loop and the half way point for the full hundo.

We took a nice 15 minute break at the Namekegon Town Hall. Ate a couple peanutbutter/nutella/banana/crasin/honey roll ups and deli sammies. Then got going again. I tell ya, it was hard moving after that break. Took a bit for the legs to get back in the motion of the ride.

The riding was all super fantastic, but it was all starting to look like this to my brain:

After Telemark, we got to ride the Rock Lake Loop. Very appropriately named. Attached to that is the Hildebrand Loop that for me, was where my brain shut down. I simply couldn't handle ANY more input. This was mile 75 or so, of which, the predominant content was rather intense single track.

It was here where I stopped. Made the decision to ride in on the road and took this:

On probably the prettiest section of singletrack the whole day.

The road ride back in was long, but I'm glad I did it. Nate and I finished the loop together for about 85 miles. Something I'm very happy with. I'm glad I had the presence of mind to call the ride before I hurt myself. Or my bike. I'll for sure be back for next year.

Stats from the GPS:
84.56 miles
9.4 mph average speed
34.7 max speed
8:58 riding time
10:50 total time
32.45 uphill miles
40.29 downhill miles
11.3 flat miles
11.5% average uphill grade
10.6% average downhill grade
6:23 average pace

Listening to: Thunderstorm! So nice....

Peregrines, Ready to roll out of the door!

2010-05-17T08:54:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder folks! I have the Peregrines in stock, and ready to ship! Smalls, Mediums and Larges, ready to move!

I've been riding my lager a bit here, and am really enjoying its versatility. We have lots of gravel at our disposal here over in Iowa and its seen its fair share of that.

Stable at speed. Comfortable on the flats. Climbs as well as you're able to. Good stuff! Heck, I've even done some single tracking with it, and it does quite well there too. I'd call handling very similar to the old Bridgestone MB's and XO's from back in the day. nice, responsive stuff there.

Price is $725 for the frame, fork, ebb, headbadge and frame prep. A great deal on a quite a bicycle!

Also, if you're thinking about a ti bike, Sam is putting in another order with Nevi for the next batch of Pegasus frames. if you want in on the que, email him! Since these are more or less custom, its best to work direct with him. Cost of these is right around the $1900 + shipping mark.

Don't forget, I've got socks [$10] and T's [$15] here, ready to ship out!

In other riding news, the weather is finally broken, and is coming into summer here. the shop is busy, and the riding is turning out to be fantastic. I raced yesterday waaaaaay up there in Rhinelander on a fantastic course. It certainly harkens back to the old days of big loop races. The course there was and 11 mile monster of twisty, rocky goodness. The Gryphon handled fantastic up there. Quick and agile. And it certainly got its fair share of attention. Guess the drop bars will do that.

I managed to finish 8th in the open SS class, with team mate Eric two spots, and a couple minutes behind me. The race went well over all, I just wish I didn't drop my bottle early in the first lap. So early that I HAD to stop and grab it. Lost a couple SS spots right there that I wasn't able to get back. Guess I'll have to be more careful about the bottle grab next time.

Next up is the Chequamegon 100 on Saturday. This will certainly be a longday on the bike, but one that will be spent with good friends. Some may view it as a race, but for me, this will certainly be a tour. I'lll be getting ready for it all week. Weather looks to be nice, if a bit warm, so hydration will be the theme of the week. I'll have a camera along, so some shots will certainly come out of it!

Listening to: The Current morning show, drinking good, dark, unmolested coffee.

Shenanigans, Singlespeeds and Socks!

2010-04-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday was the annual Decorah Time Trials. The traditional [for the past 20 years now!] start of the upper Midwest mountain bike racing season. Deke and crew have always thrown the best event in the small college town in the north east corner of Iowa.

Conditions were typical for spring in these parts. Slimy, slickery goodness. It rained for a good part of the previous few days ensuring a nice slime was coating the trails there. The thing about Decorah is that the area handles moisture well. Almost too well. It makes the trails there really fun. I've always had my best races there in the wet.

From Screen Captures

The course this year was just over 10 miles, with plenty of climbing to be had, as is custom for the Decorah Crew. Two Singular riders went over, Eric racing his Hummingbird, and me on the Gryphon{what are you here on a road bike for ?!]. The lap started out fine enough. An immediate sprint into the rad zone in a 400 meter sprint up to the actual trail entrance, and then a good walk after a slip on a root about 10 yards into the trail. Great. So there I am, walking already. Soon enough we were on top of the bluff, and as I'm edging closer to heading into Death Valley, I here the Shenanigan's portion of the weekend whooping it up.

I get down there only to discover my favorite set up of all time in the middle of the woods. The Beer Hand Up Zone*[that which has been deemed uncouth by promoters of racing in places**{Boulder, CO} where they take racing "seriously".] I ride into the BHUZ, then come to a full stop. I had to. No one filled my hand! Shockey came to rescue though with a 40 of the Highlife that I drained half of. Awesome. Refreshed, I quickly went through the second half of the lap, knowing that I'd have another go at a refreshement. And that I did. Polished off O'Gara's remainder, and then Shockey's again as Skip Berndt was in the back ground spouting something about someone on his megaphone. Seriously, how fun is that?

So I went off to finish my lap. Despite the stop's[probably all of a minute for both of them...] I got second in class! I do like those slimey, slickery conditions...

Eric ended up getting second in his age class too. A big hearty pat on his back too. He couldn't really stick around though. The Goats back on the farm were calling for care!

Oh, and also, I just got some Singular socks in! Got a whole bunch, if you're wanting to show some Singular love, throw ten bucks my way, and I'll mail out some quality Sockguy socks your way.

Oh, and one more. I'll be changing over this blog, and the old website to a new place soon! www.theprairiepeddler.net is the new address. Please make note of this and change me in your favorites! I'm still building it all up, so bear with me as I find time to do it. I'll be mirroring here for a bit, and reminding you all the while.

Thanks!

Listening to: Iron + Wine Shepherd's Dog

Action Alert: Support access for bicyclist on Stewardship lands!

2010-03-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry to interrupt the regularly scheduled Blogging here, but we've got an important job to do here in WI. We need to increase the DNR's use spectrum to include mountain biking as a legitimate use. If you live in WI, please read below. If you know someone who lives in WI, please forward this to them, and have them comment to their legislators.

Tell the legislature to require consideration of bicycles on all Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program Funded Lands

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has proposed Administrative Code NR 52 to provide the DNR with a well defined process to exclude one of the nature-based outdoor Activities from lands purchased with Knowles-Nelson Stewardship funds. After being subject to public comment the rule has been approved by the Natural Resources Board and has been forwarded to the legislature for review. The Senate's Committee on Environment and the Assembly's Committee on Natural Resources have received this proposal under the identity of Clearinghouse Rule 09-77. Both committees have scheduled public hearings.

Please ask the legislature to include language in Chapter NR52 that requires bicycling be considered an activity allowed on Stewardship funded public land.

1. Ask the legislature to acknowledge the 2005-2010 Wisconsin SCORP report that identifies bicycling as an outdoor family activity that Wisconsinites list higher than any of the existing Nature-based Outdoor Activities (NBOA).

2. Instruct the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources department through policy included in NR 52, that bicycling must be given the exact equal considerations, protection and implantation with regards to Knowles-Nelson lands as any of the existing NBOA's per Chapter 23.

Comment must be submitted by

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

and sent to the following Committee on Environment and the Senate Committee on Natural Resources
(see contact info below)

To assure your political leaders are aware of the important of this issue, please cc your state senator, assembly-person, DNR Secretary Matt Frank, and Governor Jim Doyle on your email.

DNR Secretary Matt Frank - dnr.secretary.frank@wisconsin.gov
Governor Jim Doyle - governor@wisconsin.gov

The last week was spent in Texas.

2010-03-23T06:26:00.000-07:00

I have not previously had any interest in Texas. Not really sure why, it just never registered to me as a place to visit. That has changed after spending a week there. I'll be taking a couple posts to go through it though. I took over 500 pictures while I was there, so there's lots to look at.

We started by going to the Flat Rock Ranch near Comfort for the second TMBRA race, the Stormhill Classic. This was really the first test of my 'racing' skills for the year. In previous years, I was a racing hack. I'd do a few races a year. Maybe three at most, and revel in the mediocrity that resulted. I always finished mid-pack. An occasional foray into the top ten, and a rare top three was always possible. This year, I want to change that. With Eric's prodding, I'll be racing a whole lot more this year, with an aim to improve through to the year.

As this first test, I felt I did pretty good. Its been a while since I've lined up for a race(last July for a MTB race), and it caught me off guard when the SS Cat2 class was called up first. Guess they figured we'd catch most every one else anyways...So the called us up and yelled GO! Both Eric and I have not really ridden that much yet this year. An occasional Pusgley ride, and a ride a couple times a week on the trainer in the shop.

So that's where I/we were fitness wise coming to the start line. Not really well prepared. I mean, we're racing guys from Texas here, they've been riding all 'winter', right? We'll see.

Life has taught me that when racing, start quick, but start modestly. Aim for the front of the mid packers. There's always rabbits that take off and are never seen again, but there's also a group of riders that like to THINK they're rabbits. These guys are the targets. They go out and with in a mile or three blow them selves up. And just like the theory goes, that's what happened. Before I knew it, I was top ten, and flying back through the spectator area. Over heard were comments such as, "who IS that big Singular guy?", and "Where did they come from? He'd flying!" Flattering, really. I was just having fun. For the moment.

That picture was taken about mile 12 of 23. At mile 15 or 16, I started feeling a bit crampy. No problem, I say. I'll just coast the rest of the way in. There's only one tech section, then its mostly downhill. No problem!

Pah! Right after thinking that, on the new techy rock section probably, I picked up a cactus thorn. Just like that, a slow leak. Over the course of the last 4 miles or so, I lost 6:30, or at least 6 spots. Oh well. I still finished. Sure, I should have just changed the tube...Sure would have been easier. Even easier yet would have been if I used Stans. I know. I know. I heard from Eric the rest of the week. I know I'll hear it from you lot of readers too. I'm still not gonna convert. Not a bad way to begin the racing season. Next up: The Decorah Time Trials April 25. See you there!

Enough with the racing. Lets look at the course. I really have to give props to the team that built these trails. I have not ridden anything as good as these trails for a good long time. They hit all the good stuff about mountain biking. Long, snaky switch backing climbs. Long, gradual, flowing down hills that just get faster, and faster. Flat, rocky technical sections that tested anaerobic riding skills, and super fun, ledgy down hills. Easily the best trail I rode down there.

I love the Live Oaks. Such character in them!

And I'll leave the first Austin report with this shot. My favorite from the trip. Fireside, sipping a beer, grooving on the fire watching a group of night riders coming back in from the trail. Can't get much better.

Listening to: The Current, the Spring Theme Show! Riding season is upon us!

North American Handmade Bicycle Show.

2010-02-28T06:47:00.000-08:00

This weekend is made for bike geeks of the higest order. Many of the nations most talented builders convene to show off their skills, and maybe sell a few to unsuspecting riders. So many bikes, so little cashola.
Here's a few I've found that have really turned my crank. Credit due to Urban Velo.
Possibly my favorite. I'm a sucker for orange.

I also like Cross bikes. Same builder. I can't make out the name though. Attendees?

This is a close second to the above orange one.

I dig fenders.

Peacock Groove; always ready to bling.

Flat brown. Coaster brake. Kick back? Awesome!

I like the use of the vintage XT parts on this one. Plus its orange.

Favorite mtb. The flat green is pure stealth. Love the swinger drop outs and the graceful curve to the seat tube. And its fillet brazed.

Can't say I've EVAR wanted a recumbent, and a big yard. A really big yard. Until now. goddam.

Yeah. So there. I know there'll be more coming out today, and I know that this has little to do with the shop, but these are all so damned pretty that I can't NOT put them up. Good stuff. Bikes rock.

Listening to: Weekend Edition Sunday, MPR, coffee mug in hand, drinking Love Buzz from Equal Exchange. Its a good Sunday morning.

QBP Frostbike Show favorites

2010-02-21T19:20:00.001-08:00

This past weekend was the Quality Bicycle Products annual open house. This is a trade only event that the megadistributor throws each year at this time. Lots of shops attend to see the newest stuff from many of the Vendors. Of course QBP's house brands are well represented.

There were a few things that quite impressed me this past weekend.

If you're an avid cyclist, one that rides road and trail, you are most likely familiar with Salsa's grand Fargo. A bike of many talents and abilities ridden by many talented and passionate riders[see Gnat, Meiser, et all]. Salsa saw that while there were plenty of racks out there that could suit a bike this this[and the new Vaya for that matter], there just wasn't a 'perfect' rack out there.

So they made one. Well, actually, a few. Low rider, standard rear, light front. All made of aluminum, able to carry medium loads[a solid figure isn't known quite yet].
Front:

Front mounted on the rear:

Don't ask about the seat post collar mount, I forgot to, so I don't know.

These will also look really quite nice on the Peregrine!

Salsa also introduced a couple nice new forks. One we knew about, Gnat has been riding the Enabler fat fork for a bit now. It is a production item, and will be available soon. There are three bottle mounts on it, similar to the Fargo fork, the racks you see are works in progress, but are going to be Salsa items.

The other fork is the yet to be named, but promises to be quite popular. Suspension adjusted, 20mm drop outs, Maxle axle. There are quite a few custom forks out there now with this system, but promise to cost a ton. This fork is estimated to cost $120. WITH the Maxle. Really. They're going to have a hard time holding onto this fork.

A newish entity from the Qship is Allcity. Thus far, the primary product from them is hipster fixie...crap. Certainly nothing I'm interested in, even though they admitedly look pretty cool. And now they come out with this:

Neat touches are the hidden fender mounts, fancy track ends with built in adjusters and good tire clearance. The example they had built up was specced quite nice, with Avid's new ultimate Shorty and Force cranks.

Its late, and I'm going to bed. Enjoy the pictures. Thanks for looking. Oh, and don't forget the Cabin Fever sale!

Listening to: sweet silence!

Gryphon and Peregrine = in stock!

2010-02-18T11:40:00.001-08:00

Fresh off the truck, I have 32 new frames to get ready for y'all! If you've been waiting on a Gryphon, or a Peregrine now is the time!

If you're new to this, you may be asking just what are they?

I'm happy to help you out here.

The Gryphon is a drop bar specific 29" wheeled mountain bike. Yes, similar to the drop bar specific Salsa Fargo, but the Gryphon doesn't have all those braze ons for loading up. Think of the Gryphon as a stripped down racer. Its ideal terrain varies between gravel epics, fire road bombing and singletrack slaying. If you're curious about the drop bar phenomena that's been growing recently, check out Guitar Ted's blog. The man knows a thing or two about how to set one of these up.

As an example, this is the bike that I'll be using for the Lumberjack 100 in June. Perfect bike for that terrain me thinks!

Price on the Gryphons is a normal $590. These will be included on the Cabin Fever Sale. Jump on them now for $500! Good deal, eh?

The Peregrine should prove to be quite a versatile bike too. This one differs a bit from the rest of the line thus far. Its a Lugged, cyclocross bike that likes to think that it's a mountain bike that can also tour.

I know. Kind of all over the place there, innit? I can't really begin to post all the varied builds that are possible with this bike, so here's one shot[my favorite of it] and a link to Sam's shots.
Yes, that IS the Arenberg from the Paris Roubaix course. EPIC!

These will also be included in on the sale. Normal price is $725, sale price will be $650.

I now have good stock on both frames in all sizes. Please call with any questions!

listening to: Ugly Cassanova, and moving boxes upon boxes of bikes!

Cabin Fever!

2010-02-17T10:34:00.001-08:00

I has it!

The Shop has it!

Best cure?

The Cabin Fever Sale at The Prairie Peddler! Now [February 17] through March 12 stop in at the shop and pick up fantastic deals on bikes and accessories. Need warm gloves for those cool spring rides? I have them! 25% off! Need a warmer jersey for the cooler[yet warmer!] days ahead? I have those, and some jackets and vests too! Also 25% off.

All remaining 2009 bikes are marked down too! 25% off those! I have a couple Jamis road bikes, Some Redline bikes, and Jamis Comfort bikes. Stop in, and we'll get you set up!

What about Singular you say? Well, I'll even include those in the sale too! Normal price for the Swift and Hummingbirds is $590. During the sale, $500 will take one home for you! If you've been thinking about a Singular, stop and pull the trigger!

In Singular news, I have Peregrines and more Gryphons coming into the shop very soon. They're on US soil, being shipped on to me as I type this. With any luck, I'll have them in and ready to start shipping by the weekend. There's a few of you out there that have deposits on Peregrine's that'll get first dibs.

Next weekend is the Quality Bicycle Products open house, or rather Frostbike as they call it. I'll be headed up to check out all the latest gadgets and make contact with old friends. Should be a good weekend.

Listening to: Godspeed You! Black Emporer

Saturday wake up rides.

2010-02-13T08:25:00.000-08:00

Since I've got these big rides that I previously told you about coming up this season, I figured its high time for me to get out and actually ride my bike. For some reason, this winter has found me riding less, and committing to more.

Weird.

So last week, Wayne and I started the season a bit early, and will be doing the Saturday Wake Up Rides from here on in. This morning was a brisk -4 according to Waynes truck. A full ten degrees cooler than my house gauge read. hrm...well we're here, lets ride!

Sure, it was cold, but cold enough that the snow was in awesome condition. It was cold enough that the snow had that squeaky crunch to it. The kind of snow that feels almost like dirt when you ride on it. It was great being able to ride all the way up the hills with out spinning out. Of course, the fresh 4" of snow we got, along with the groomer certainly helped, but it was a nice ride. Short, but nice.

And at 0 degrees, short is fine with me. Miles is miles at this point. There's time later for more.

Have a good weekend, and hey, we might see you at the bike swap at the Blain Sports Center this Sunday!

Listening to: Silence. Except for that annoying tinnitus hum. But silence no less. Its good.

The training has begun...

2010-02-09T13:43:00.000-08:00

This, my 37th year of existence here on Earth is going to be one of, if not the most challenging years I've had. Nothing personal or business mind you. My marriage is as strong as it ever has been, and the shop is doing well enough to keep me happy.

No, this is all about physical tests this year. It started innocently enough. Eric talked me into travelling down to Austin TX in March. Fun! I think, warm weather, pleasant trails. Maybe a beer or three. Then Eric tells me that racing is on the agenda. But I'm not in shape enough to race I protest. Big deal he says. Its not like anyone knows us down there(do you?). So if you're from the Austin area, and will be going to the Storm XC race weekend near Comfort, TX, look for the boys in Singular gear. Stop by and say hey, sweet talk me enough, and we'll probably let you out on a demo ride(we'll be bringing down a few bikes to let folks try out).

So that was the start. An innocent trip to race bikes in Texas. Then this one popped up on my radar. I've heard many great things about it, from course to organizers to general vibe of the event. I got up early to register for it as well. I figured I had enough time to get one 100 miler in this year. The Lumberjack 100 will certainly be a test of my will, if not my endurance. I can't wait! Adam and few guys from Iowa City will also be going over to contest it too.

I was happy there. The plan was to also do a selection of WORS, ICORR, and MNSCS races. Certainly should have been enough to keep the summer full.

Then I caught wind of a nice little event being put on by some friends up in the Chequamegon National Forest. The Chequamegon 100 was simply too iresistable to NOT do. So I signed up for it too. This will actually work out quite well. I'll use it as a shake down for the Lumberjack on nutrition, as well as fitness. Should be fun!

In real shop news, I have two Singular Peregrines in the store I'd like to sell. Both are brand new, but have some cosmetic issues from shipping. Number 1 has about a centimeter square chip on the lower headtube lug, right out front. I'm selling it for $675 instead of the normal $750. The other one has two scratches. One on the chainstay, about an inch long, and the other on the seat stay. I'm selling it for $625. Both are sized Medium. Both are prepped and ready ship. Ask for pictures, I've got some if you want to see the spots.

I also have some fresh new Gryphon's and Peregrines coming into port as I type. With any luck, I'll be able to have them in the store, ready to get prepped by this weekend!

Speaking of this weekend, on Sunday, there's a nice bike swap happening at the Velodrome in Blaine MN. Bike love at its best! I'll be sharing tables with Sean from Rawland. Stop by and check some frames out! I'll certainly have a few up with me to sell. I'll be having a swap special of $500 going. If you're from the Cities, and have been pining after a Singular Swift, Gryphon or Hummingbird, swing by!

Listening to: Sidra, the 5 year old reading a book to me as I type. Its amazing what the Kindegardners are doing now! Oh, and Johnny Cash, FTMFW.

A little bit of a diversion.

2010-01-12T07:32:00.001-08:00

Today's post is going to be a bit different. I have a guest blogger here that just did something that I think deserves attention. Colin is a local to Prairie here. Grew up here, and is one of those talented individuals that many of us secretly fear. They're just too damned good. See, there's a race near here called the Triple D. It starts in Dubuque IA, and goes to Dyersville and back, following the Heritage trail. Total distance? About 60 miles. Sure. Not long you say. Add in snow and subfreezing temps. We'll see how YOU do. Colin not only finished on his first attempt, he was one of 9 finishers out of 31 starters. Not bad. This is a bit long, but the read is well worth it.

Alrighty, so yesterday I took part in the Triple D race, which is a race of about 60 miles that starts in Dubuque and runs on the Heritage Trail through Durango to Dyersville and back to Dubuque. I chose to do it on a bike, but there are running and CC skiing categories as well.

It was a beautiful sunny morning. I came a little over-packed with extra clothes, but I figure I would rather haul around an extra couple pounds than sag out because I got cold. I was getting myself situated for the briefing, and I see a guy dressed to race, in shorts, drinking a Sparks. I started to make guesses on how long I thought he would last.

At 10 AM, we rolled out along downtown Dubuque. Marty Larson kindly let me borrow the Prairie Peddler demonstration Pugsley, a photograph of which can be found at the bottom of the page. Its good on snow, but lousy on concrete. There were about 32 bikers I think, everyone riding around on some unique set-up. I'll see if I can dig up some photos, cuz I thought it looked pretty cool at least.

We reach the mouth of the heritage trail and endured a mile of untouched snow. I was able to ride through some of it and nailed down a spot in the middle of the pack. Lots of pushing the bike around, but we finally reached the snowmobile-packed section of the trail and we were off! It was nice and smooth, and I was able to cruise much faster than I originally anticipated. The snow was just hard enough that I found myself wishing I had used my mountain bike, which would have been a bit lighter and faster, but the conditions were still ideal. I ended up riding behind "Sparks-drinking shorts guy" for a little while to take a little bit of the drag off myself.

I was so excited! We were cruising at around 12mph, and I thought that I would be able to put this one in the bag by sundown. We were going strong for about maybe 1.5 hrs, when I look up and see a large machine coming towards us. It was the trail groomer. I pulled off and let it pass, and my heart sank as I began to ride again. The groomer took our wonderful high speed trail and crapped all over it. It was like riding through thick mashed potatoes it seemed. I spent the rest of the trip out to Dyersville slipping around and trying to find chunks of packed snow. Average speed slowed to 7 mph. I let a ton of air out of my big tires, which helped a bit with the sliding around.

I still wanted to make good time at this point. I was starving so I snarfed down a couple mini snickers and a clif bar while I rode. I was wearing my camelbak under my jacket to keep it from freezing, yet when I reached for that long-awaited refreshing blast of water, I realized that water had frozen in the tube. I tucked it under my arm and waited a while for it to thaw, slightly frustrated at the lingering taste of black cherry almond clif bar that remained the entire time.

It was a beautiful sunny day, and the trail was incredibly scenic, but by about 1 PM I was starting to get pretty worn out, and I had no idea how much longer I had to go to Dyersville. It was a never-ending uphill journey for the next 2 hours, but I managed to drag myself into Dyersville around 3 PM. I checked in at the BP halfway point and darted to purchase the strawberry soda I had been CRAVING for the last several hours. Never before has a strawberry Crush tasted so good:) I ate a muffin and shot the poo with a couple other riders who were taking a breather. After a nice 20 minutes of warmth, I switched out my soaked wick-away base shirt, filled my camelbak, threw on the toe warmers and the ski mask and hit the road. I had sweat through my jacket and it now weighed a ton, but I was still pretty warm and I had no other weather-resistant top layer. Plus, a bunch of guys sagged out at the BP in Dyersville----including "shorts Sparks guy", who made it farther than I thought he would----so my plan was to try to enjoy a little bit of a downhill ride on the way back and call it quits at a good point. I got back on the bipolar Heritage trail and rode for about 15 minutes.

The groomer was back. Coming right at me. I wish someone had a picture of my face at that point, it would have been a winner I'm sure. I just stood there and stared as it turned off. I wanted to quit. There was no way I was gonna argue with crazy uneven snow, in the dark, for 25 miles. Tyler, a rider I talked with at the BP, decided he was gonna give it a shot, so I reluctantly went along. The sun was just starting to set, so at least I would have something to look at. Plus I wanted to see if the downhill would be as pleasant as it was hyped up to be. It was, and I found my pace around maybe 8-10 mph until the sun disappeared. I tried to save my headlight, but I needed to see the grooves in the snow to have some point of reference, so I turned it on a little after 6.

It was crystal clear night sky, and there was a sense of serenity for a while. I found it pretty enjoyable, even though my ski mask was frozen to my face and my goggles were beginning to fog. At about 7:30 my hands began to burn, so I stopped for about 5 minutes. I shut off my lights, enjoyed the night scenery, ate, watered, bathroomed, chewed some instant coffee, warmed up some hot-hands, and put on my last-resort mittens. Much better:) I flipped on my light and continued on. 2 minutes later, my light died. I shouted at it. I now wanted to quit again. I got to a road and called in my Sag, but changed my mind when I was told I only had about 8-10 miles to go. I dug out my little princeton tec headlamp and ran it on low, and talked to myself all the way to Durango. I had to forfeit my goggles, so I found my eyelashes beginning to freeze to my ski mask from time to time. My jacket had begun to freeze as well, but my base-layer was still plenty warm, so I pressed on.

I rode past a fully-lit Sundown Mountain, and it was magnificent in many ways. I knew I was getting close, and I had something cool to look at besides snow. In the dark, I found my light playing tricks on me. I kept seeing things, and therefore every sound started to set me on edge. I began to imagine how I would react if i spotted one of those cave-crawler things from "The Descent". I was growing bored, so I was willing to entertain any thought at this point.

I finally reached Durango! Wait, Durango? Are you kidding me? I thought I had passed the Durango entrance already for some reason. I thought Sundown Mountain was my welcome mat for Dubuque. Its 9 pm now, but the folks at base camp tell me I only have 45 minutes to go. Why not finish it out?

I was humping along, and my legs were beginning to lock. My jacket sounded like brown packing paper every time I moved. My base layer was still surprisingly warm considering I could see my jacket turning white. I went for about 30 minutes, and I saw a fork that looked just like the one we took to enter the trail almost 11 hours ago, so I took the turn.

I was imagining the excitement I would feel when I would get to the road crossing.
I was dreaming about sitting in the conference room stuffing my face with pizza and getting a massage.
I was making a mental list of every delicious item of food I would buy at various fast food restaurants.

I soon realized that I was not where I thought I was. I had gotten lost. I called in, and I think there was a miscommunication somewhere. Perhaps they thought I was at another point. I wanted to get to the final crossing. I was told to ride a half a mile and jump back on the trail with the blue reflectors. Half a mile turned into 2 miles uphill, on concrete, on a slow, low-pressure Pugsley. I was getting more confused and more lost. Now, I discovered today that there had been stolen and moved course markings. That sucks that someone would go out of there way to take an orange arrow and put it somewhere else, or whatever. I don't know how that's funny. At 10:15 pm, I somehow ended up in Sageville, with a big dumb sign taunting me, shouting at me: "Dubuque - 5 miles". Did I backtrack or something? How did I possibly end up there? I reluctantly called in for a ride. I had been riding for over 12 hours, and 5 miles on concrete sounded like a nightmare. I couldn't feel my feet anymore, and my fingers kept going numb from the handlebars and the constant vibration and bad circulation.
I was covered in frost. It was fascinating.

I got to the hotel, and I stumbled upstairs to the conference room. I could almost taste the pizza. I had to wait for my ski mask to thaw out before I could take it off without removing my beard. I was greeted with so many levels of warmth, and I received a medal, some cash, and I won the "Frozen Seat" award for being out the longest! I was told that I technically came in 8th place, being the last biker out there.

The pizza was gone.
The pizza was gone!
There was no more pizza to be eaten!
And the masseuse had left as well!
That's ok, I decided priority 1 was to get into some dry clothes. I went and changed and came back and began to drink whatever soda I could find. Oh the sweet sugar, it was perfect. The carbonation was attacking my nose, but I needed that sugar like it was the anti-venom that would save my life. Then I started to shiver. I couldn't stop.

This is the kicker.

This very kind and talkative inebriated girl saw me shivering and said I needed to get into some hot water somehow. She asked if I was staying at the hotel.

Once I managed to control my clicking teeth, I told her I was planning on driving all the way back to PdC.

She walked out and came back with a room key. She had bought me my own room! From what I understand, she worked for Budweiser, and she found a way to put it on the company card. I didn't even get her name, so I have no way to send her a formal note of thanks, but that room was a life-saver. I immediately ordered 3 mediums from Dominos and kicked back with some Chris Rock and talked with Kristin for a while, and once the food arrived I was immediately flown to cloud nine. It felt pretty cool having the Pugsley in the room. It looked like such a workhorse, and I couldn't believe that I just spent the whole day on that bicycle. I took a nice hot bath, and hit the hay. It was a perfect end to an interesting day:)

Thanks to:

Marty for lending me the bike and misc gear, the cool job, and the good advice
Kristin for the last-resort mittens and support
Kate for giving me the Princeton tec headlamp last year
Kayla for putting me up the night before
Talkative Inebriated Girl for being so kind to get me a bed
Lance and all the volunteers who put this on and hooked me up with the tight schwag and prizes

Now, to get the feeling back into my fingers.....

Listening to: Sweet golden sounds of Silence.

Team Singular? And other news....

2009-11-17T06:46:00.000-08:00

Hey there world. I have a question for you. If you come here, there's a pretty dang good chance that you like bicycles. Heck, you probably ride them quite a bit. Some of you may even *gasp!* race your bicycles!

Well this post is aimed directly at the latter. See, Singular likes racing. We like the crowd that hangs at mountain bike races. Y'all are good folk. You talk about bikes enthusiastically, so much so that probably have a blog that talks about them too. Kinda like Charlie here.

To that end, Singular is looking for a few ambassadors. Looking for a few riders that race and are willing to fly the flag proudly. We like riders that are happy to be what they're doing. Results are important, but not #1. We want riders that are respected in the field. Maybe even liked! We are a small, very small company, so we can't offer much, but a discount on the frame, and a jersey should go a long ways.

Do you think you have what it takes? Send an application [creativity counts!] to Sam and I, and we'll get something rolling. Copy us both on the application: theprairiepeddler@gmail.com and sam@singularcycles.com good luck!

In the news department, I am expecting some Gryphons here any day nowAs of this moment, they're in Miwaukee waiting on paperwork to come through. Got my fingers crossed that I'll be able to go over and pick them up soon!

I'm also expecting a few Peregrines to come through in the next week or two as well. If you've got a deposit on either of these, expect to get an email from me soon so we can set up delivery of your new toys!

I've been out doing a little bit of riding lately too. Its hard to get out when the daylight savings hit, so riding is limited to weekend hours now. That or early mornings after I drop the kids off at school. A few weeks back, Ben up at Milltown invited a bunch of friends up/over for a nice gravel tour around his neck of the woods. It ended up being a perfectly glorious autumn day. You can see all the photos here, but here's a snapshot of the day:

On Sunday last, Eric and I went up to an old haunt: the Human Power Trails in La Crosse WI. This is a whole network of very well built, super fun trails. I always enjoy my rides up there. If you're ever close, you owe it to yourself to get a lap or two in.

Anyways. Get out and ride! Next week is the WI CX state finals in Hales Corners. Look for the Singular Kite to show!

Listening to: The Currect. Drinking: Coffee of course!

Too good not to share.

2009-10-07T18:11:00.000-07:00

I mean really. This is awesome. If you're trying to get bike paths installed in your city, this video should prove to be an absolutely invaluable tool. I can't wait to bombard PdC with this. Its 13 minutes, but it is well worth the watch.

Boulder Bike Story from Bikes Belong on Vimeo.

I know. Two posts in one day. Weirder things have happened. I think.

Listening to: A babbling three year old torture her sister.

A Kite flying teaser, and new reads.

2009-10-07T10:57:00.000-07:00

First things first:

daaaamn! Singular Cycles Kite cyclocross prototype.

Reynolds 853 main tubes, 4130 stays. Investment cast Henry James style drop outs. Center mount brake posts. Its got all the right things going for it. This is a 60cm version, and built up as you see, its all of 21lbs. Lightest bike I own. I took it out for a spin this morning at La Riviere. You'd think that there wouldn't be all that much of a difference between two high end steel bikes, but there sure is between the Kelly, which I've owned now for......5 years I think, and this new Singular.

Thing is, there was. Its not that the Kelly felt dead on the last ride, its just that this Singular felt sprightly on this ride. I rode the same wheels on both bikes, so it sure wasn't them, it had to be the frame materials. The Kite was an easy, eager climber. It got up to 'sprint' readily. Changing direction was a simple matter of thought and movement. I've got high hopes for this bike on Sunday at CamRock. Look out 4's! Sam has got another hit on his hands here.

And since I know I"ll be getting the question; I don't know when, and I don't know how much. But its likely next season as my best guess. If you have questions, keep and eye out for the Singular kit at the WI races this fall. Hey, I may even make a MN race or two as well.

On the reading part, I was directed to a new blog by my friend Jason. He has thsi cool blog focusing on two of my favorite passions, bikes and photography. He's been getting awesomer at image making, and finding neat blogs out there in the web-o-sphere, including the Adventure Monkey. I've been reading it this morning and am quite impressed with his photographic style, and his choice of riding. Gravel is good! I look forward to keeping up with him, and maybe take some inspiration from him too.

The other is EcoVelo. Its kind hard to tell you what its all about with sounding like a cheesy rip off of their about me page. So I'll just quote 'em:

Welcome to EcoVelo. This site is the public expression of our personal commitment to reduce our impact on the environment by employing bicycles as our primary mode of transport. By sharing what we learn from this endeavor, while also providing an aesthetically pleasing experience that celebrates the beauty of the bicycle and the joys of everyday bike riding, we hope to inspire others to make a similar commitment.

Its a well laid out page, with what is becoming a common thing here, beautiful photos. This will be interesting to follow their adventures too.

Lisenting to: The Current, Minnesota Public Radio. Drinking; rich dark coffee and feeling good.

Fall Sale! There's stuff here I don't want , you NEED!

2009-10-06T12:59:00.000-07:00

Stuff that no matter how cool it is, I just don't really want in the store any more!

Item #1:
Bontrager Rhythm Elite wheels. 29" of course, offest spokebed, tubeless ready. These are brand spankin' new! Includes skewers and rim tape.

From store

$375, shipped.

Item #2:
Easton XC-1 SS 29" wheels. Super nice, highend wheels for your SS 29er. Incredibly smooth bearings, surprisingly stiff straight pull spokes. These are great for an XC race weapon. Again, these are brand new, in the box. I have three sets.

From store

$650, shipped.

Item #3:
Surly Mr. Whirly crank set + Race Face bb. Both items are used, though not heavily. Cranks are 185mm long. Yeah. one hundred and eighty five millemeters! They're huge. If you're tall[like, really tall], or want tons of leverage on your SS, these are what you want. There is a bit of heal rub, though nothing bad. Ring pattern is 104mm, 4 bolt.

From store

$200, shipped.

Items #4, #5:
White Industries ENO cranks. One Polished, one black. Both 180mm, both have a 32t ring. Both just unwrapped from shipping.

From store

$180 each, shipped

Item #6:
Thomson Seat post, 32.4x367. Yeah, 32.4mm. Black in hue. Talk about a weird size. No picture on this one. Its a Thomson post, y'all know what it looks like.
$60, shipped. I know, really. $60 is a killer deal. If you or a loved one needs it, let me know.

Welp, that's about it. weather here has turned to rainy, wet crap, we're losing light quick, and I'm not getting out enough to ride. I gotta change that. May be time to shift hours around.

Take care.

Listening to: Explosions in the Sky radio on Last.fm. And watching a three year old ride her strider OVER boxes saying "Sweet jumps!"

Wheels are turning...winter race style...

2009-09-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

Prairie Pugsley Parade?
Chilly Coulee Cruise?
Hellish Hills of Ice?
Wookies of Wisco drinking Wiskey?

I'm thinking February sometime. Gomez is working on one in January. JP in Menomonie is also getting one going.

Beginnings.

That is all.

Listening to: Morning Edition, Minnesota Public Radio - and coffee ingestion! Mmmmm coffee...

A month. Already? Really?

2009-09-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

Geez. I didn't think that I was THAT busy. Guess I was.

BRAVE ride, SidieFest, standard shop business, USGP Cyclocross in Madison. Seems like everything comes to a head in September. And I didn't even do everything I wanted to. Too many other commitments. Oh well.

Singular updates! Gryphons and a few more Swifts will be coming middish October. Peregrines will be coming in mid to late November. I know lots of you out there are chewing your nails off waiting for the Peregrines. Stop doing that. Its not good for you! If you want to garuntee your spot in line on either of these bikes, drop me a line, and put a $100 deposit in paypal to theprairiepeddler@gmail.com Be sure to let me know what size you need, and any other pertinent information.

In other news, Sam went to Italy a while back to talk with Nevi, makers of fine Italian Titanium bikes. What they talked about is the much rumored Titanium Swift. It sounds as if an agreement has been made to come up with a production Ti Swift. No pricing has been arrived at yet, but rest assured, it'll be in the $2k range. There won't be a regular production run either. If you would like in on this, be sure to let me and Sam know. More details will be forthcoming. In the mean time, dream over Sam's personal Ti prototype. Nice stuff!

Ok. Off to work. I know many come for photos here besides my random verbage. I've been shooting lots, and will have a photo post soon. For now, a shot from Sundays USGP Cyclocross race in Madison:

Listening to: the wind howl around the house. Sure feels like autumn is here today...

Singular T's

2009-08-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

So you want to pimp out the Singular brand? Hey! I can help you with that! Just arrived, I have a bunch of T's available for your back. $15 and they're yours. I have Medium, Large and XLarge ready to go.

Singular Stock update!

2009-08-24T10:18:00.000-07:00

Due to the DirtRag review, I've been getting lots of questions on the Frames. No surprise there, really! Good reviews drive business! So I went to the basement there, and did an inventory. These numbers are good for today, August 24.

Swifts:
XL - 19
L - 18
M - 6

Hummingbird:
S - 2
M - 3
L - 3

So there you have it! If you're looking for a M Swift, better get an order in soon! Once these are gone, I won't be reordering till mid winter or so. The Gryphons and Peregrines are being made as I type. We should be seeing these in October or so.

Just a short, business-like update today!

listening to: Boot Liquor;Americana roots music for Cowhands, Cowpokes and Cowtippers.

Dirt Rag review is in!

2009-08-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

And boy, was it good. Not glowing as in "this is the best bike in the universe" good, but more of a "dang, this bike just flat out handles really well".

I've already seen a small uptick in traffic because of it. Looking forward to more soon!

If you are looking to buy this, or anything else from me, i've got a nice stash of parts laying about. White Industries SS cranks. Thomson stems and seat posts. Avid BB7 brakes and SD7 levers. A complete silver Shimano Alfine system. Origin8 bars. Titec Hbars. Continental Tires. A list of nice stuff for sure. I'll acutally be working on putting together a parts package over the next few days for those who want a complete. I'm getting more requests for that than I thought I would.

Since I've had the Singulars here, I've sold about 12 of them. Two just went out yesterday, and probably another today. I've gotten a few pictures of built up rigs. Figured I'd post 'em here for your pleasure.

From Swifts Customer

The cool thing is that these are all over. Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Arizona, Colorado, Indiana, California, Illinois, and soon to be everywhere.

Its gonna be a good day here. Hope its the same where you are.

Summer time at the shop = work. Lots of work.

2009-07-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

And that is what is primarily keeping me from updating this silly blog.

So whats been up at The Prairie Peddler? Lots. Like the last post said, we got the first shipment of Singulars in, and they're moving out at the nice pace. Which I'm sure will pick up once the DirtRag review hits the news stand. I can't wait to read what David thought of the bike. This is almost worse than waiting for Christmas. Of the bikes that are out there [10 at last count] build pics and ride impressions are coming back. The bikes all look fantastic, and I'm collecting a few images that I can post here and at my flickr account for those 'shopping'. I'll post something here soon on that. I've been getting a few questions on pricing, and the introductory price time period is over. Price for Frame, Fork, Phil EBB and prep is now $590. Still a fantastic deal for what you get, and nicely in between Surly's and Salsa's. There's a gap there in that market that I wanted to fill, and I think these do that quite nicely!

Repairs have been nice and steady, always keeping me on my toes, and even staying late on some days. Tis the life of a bikeshop owner. Feast and famine I tell ya.

I've been getting out for semi regular rides too. Gravel grinders, weekly road rides, weekly trail rides. A smattering of racing. Its all good. Of course, I'd like to be riding more, and as soon as I finish this, I'll head out for a bit of dirt, but I'm just happy to be able to head out on the bike.

From riding 09

Gravel!

From riding 09

Top of a 6 mile climb.

From riding 09

Matt's new Singular, built in Winona at Pat's abode.

From riding 09

High above Winona on the Holzinger Lodge trails. Beautiful flowy fun. Wish I had time for more laps....

From riding 09

backroading it somewhere in Crawford County.

From riding 09

Part of the BRAVE route. This is the second year fo rthe event. This year we cut milage down to 100k for the long route, but took out all of the gravel we had last year. Lest you think that cutting milage will make this easy, there's still LOTS of climbing out there. Somewhere in the neighborhood of 10,000' worth over the 65 miles. Come on out/over/down/up for a great ride on September 19th!

Time for dirt! OUT!

Listening to: Neko Case on Pandora.
Drinking: Sumatra roast form McGregor Coffee Roasters: Support your local roaster!

And just like that!

2009-07-10T20:48:00.000-07:00

They're here!

After a paint delay, and what seemed like eons at customs, the Singular Swift's and Hummingbirds have arrived! Taking orders NOW! Call or email. If'n you need parts, I'll be happy to set you up with what ever cures your lust for shiney bits.

From singular

The first ones are already out the door and built. Reports are filtering back that the ride is just what they've been expecting.

I just got mine back from Dirt Rag. I'm eagerly awaiting seeing this review. The bike came back a bit beat up, but no worse for the wear. Just goes to show that they really do RIDE the bikes they test. Awesome.

Next up, Mountain Flyer? Would love to get one tested there too! Got my feelers out. Hey, gotta get one to Mark over there at The Cyclist Site too.

Listening to: Hank III
Drinking: Dales Pale Ale from Oskar Blues

Supercar Friday.

2009-06-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

So there I am, good intentions filling me up on Friday morning. I have lots of work to catch up on. Some wheels to build, repairs to finish up and get out the door. A bike or two to build. A new employee to break in(really!). A full day. So I skip the morning road ride, and head to work, only to round the corner and be fronted with roughly $750,000 worth of cars sitting in front of my shop.

In my past, long buried by two wheel transport fandom, is a history littered with combustion. My Dad used to race sports cars at some of the regional race tracks. For 10 years, my summers revolved around changing tires, watch Dad rip around Elkhart Lake, Brainerd, Black Hawk Farms, and various auto cross courses. It was cool for sure, seeing all these fast cars. I remember watching Paul Newman walk right by me up at Brainerd. Saw Indy Cars and IMSA protoypes at Elkhart Lake. Up to about 15 or 16, it was awesome. Then something happened. Instead of girls and cars, I found bikes. Wierd, I know.

But there has always been a lurking motohead in me. Cars can indeed be cool.

And there was LOTS of cool sitting on the street outside the shop on Friday. First thing I see is a Corvette. Average enough. A Pontiac Solstice. Meh. A Ford GT. Another Ford GT. Nice! A Lotus Exige. REALLY nice! A Louts Elise, another Corvette, and right out the door of the shop, a Ferrari 430 droptop.

And the trophy wives to match.

So there went my good intentions of getting to work early. And they all sounded awesome driving away.

Anyways. On to the pics. Of course I took pictures!

Listening to: Bon Iver and Arcade Fire on iTunes.

Good morning! Good morning! Its time to rise and shine!

2009-06-03T08:18:00.000-07:00

That there's lyrics from a wake up song that we sing to the girls in the am's. When we sing that song, the day almost always ends up being a really good one. Lately, we've been singing that song alot.

As a result, the mornings have been really, really blessedly wonderful. Warm, sunny, inviting for an hour or so tour on the bike[s].

This is one of the reasons why there's been a dearth of updates here. Just having too much fun on the wheels, and keeping very busy in the shop itself.

Enough with the pleasantry's. That's not what you come here for.

First order of business: Singulars! They are indeed finally on the water after a small paint/sticker delay. Its still hard to call it as to when they'll be here. Best I can figure is a week to a week and a half on the water, then a day or three in customs, then two to three days on a truck, then here. I AM having a few air mailed over, but they're for the folks that have been kind enough to put down deposits. Parts for those who've ordered items are starting to flow in. Wheels will be built this week. Cranks will be fondled. Headsets imaginarily adjusted. Life will be good!

Two: Picsures. I like pictures, YOU like pictures. So lets get on with it!

Wonderfull section of trail:

Day two on trail:

Day three on trail:

OH! and one last thing: I've never been much of a moto-head, but I found something this past week that is sending my heart all a flutter. I can SO easily imagine fully and completely enjoying one of these Mac Cafe Racers on the roads around here. 500cc Buell engine, light weight frame. Flat out gorgeous looks. Gotta get over the $16k price barrier though...and that pesky UK thing too.

Listening to: Beastie Boys/Paul's Boutique.....kickin' the gnu k-nowledge!

Project: Mary A

2009-05-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

I've had this Mary since way long time back. I've ridden it, abused it, and generally treated it like any bike should be treated. Not these last couple years though. Its been languishing on a hook in the garage, awaiting parts.

A sale popped up that I thought could give new life to Mary. A complete Alfine wheel was offered at a great price, so I bit. All the necessary bits were purchased, including a few to increase its usefulness in its intended goal. Trail building macheen.

But first, its gotta be tested, right? And that I did this am. We got about a .5" of rain last night. Enough to make everything slippery and fun. And oddly ridable, but considering the sand we have here, its ok. fwiw, the Kenda Karma's [I]suck[/I] in the mud, but we all knew that already, right?

Initial set up was a bit tricky because there were no instructions, and no additional parts included with the wheel purchase. A bit of fumbling around got me the parts I needed, and asking a pointed question on MTBR got me shifting right.

The first ride was good. Everything worked and shifted like it should. Once things dry out a bit more, I'll take it out again for a longer ride up at Yellow River. Should be fun!

Listening to: Plans and conspiring and goals.

Sunday, May 3 trail building session.

2009-05-04T09:41:00.000-07:00

Over here in Pdc land, we've got a new trail building toy. One of the local riders/builders runs a small CSA farm, and he likes euro stuff. This combination gets him some really cool euro toys to play with. the tractor is a two wheeled BCS with a diesel conversion. The attachment is an Italian flail mower. The result is a much more capable DR trimmer. You'd be surprised what this thing will go over. And through.

The result is a perfect width trail. about 36" or so wide. All thats left to do is rake and ride in most cases. Yes, trimming the edges needs to be done to get ride of prikker stuff.

Yesterday, in about 4.5 hours we mowed in roughly 2.5 miles of trail.

I'll be going out later today to finish up trimming the corridor, and get a few passes in.

Listening to: KDEC 100.5. Broadcasting online, finally!

Decorah Time Trials = Fun!

2009-05-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Cranko Flow from Marty Larson on Vimeo.

So last weekend was the Decorah Time Trials. Its always a fun time. The crew in Decorah has built an awesome set of trails through the hills, in town! This is the first of two video's that I have composed. Ryan, Eric and I all took our Pugsleys over to through through the trails. There were certainly a lot of looks and sideways glances at the start line. We could almost hear the comments.

"what are these guys thinking!? Haven't they seen the mud?" "Don't they know its rained?" Those tires have NO tread!".

And to tell the truth, I kinda though that too.

Then I rode. And it was simply awesome. I love my Pugsley.

Listening to: The Noise Downstairs. //WIfes Band. It was awesome.

Singular Pricing and new toys in the shop!

2009-04-24T06:26:00.000-07:00

Yeah! Here's the long awaited post, letting y'all know what the Singulars are going to cost. Those who've been so generous as to put a deposit down already have an idea, but this is definitive!

First a brief rundown of the models:
The Swift is the mountain bike of the bunch. 29" wheels, Eccentric BB for SS duty, Cables stops and hanger for geared duty. A nice versatile bike. And good looking to boot!

The Gryphon is much the same as the Swift above, but is designed specifically for drop bar off roading. The Gryphon is also designed to be run rigid, as can be seen with the short fork.

The Hummingbird is an interesting one. Nominally a 26" mate to the 29" Swift, but it can be run with a 26" wheels and a suspension fork, or as a 69er with the supplied rigid fork and a 29" front wheel. This MAY be able to accept 650b wheels too. We'll have to wait to see if they truely fit though. No promises there.

These three bikes come as a frame, fork, and Phil Wood eccentric module. The head tube is faced/chased before leaving the door, and the frame is JPWiegle'd.

Price? $465

The Peregrine is the true chameleon of the bunch though. Lugged frame, clearance for BIG tires, rack mounts, eccentric bb, Disc brakes, cable stops and hangers, fender room, drop bars, Nitto North's, flat bars...you name it. The best lable is probably going to be a monster cross. This is the one you want to take with you all the way.

Price? $635

Nice prices for nice bikes. Of course taxes and shipping apply where applicable and all that jazz. Check out Sam's flickr page for more shots of each of these bikes.

I've got a few wheels that can be sold with these bikes too. Just rolled in yesterday from the man in blue, Easton came through with 6 sets of the XC-1 29" wheels. Single speed specific, but enough room on the cassette carrier for at least 4 cogs if you float that way. Taking a set out here and playing with them gives a very nice first impression! Super smooth bearings. Seriously light. Perfectly round/true. I could give you the schpeal from Easton direct, but that's no fun. Since I just got 'em, I don't have any ride time on a set, but Cap't Bob over at 29inches has been riding a set, and seems impressed. Check it out!

Price? With a Singular: $490. Just want a set? $550.

First Century. Done.

2009-04-21T06:16:00.000-07:00

Last fall, in a fit of questionable bravado, I signed up for the RagnarÖk 105. A decision that at the time, seemed smart. At the time.

One very long winter later, and April 18 has popped up kind of before I expected it. Sure, I've been riding some before the event, but not to the level that one would consider actually training. So I went into this thing, just hoping to survive, and maybe, maybe even finish.

To that end, the finishing part, Ryan and I went up with out a bail out option. We didn't have any kind of support crew. No one to bail us out. We started, and the only way we were going to get back was to ride the whole way. One option. One goal. It worked.

We rolled out of the sack at 6am, ran into the local bakery/coffee shop for a quick energy shot, and made it back to the start for the 7:30 roll out. There were no real nerves this morning like I get at short mtb or CX races. It was a super relaxed atmosphere. Untill Ryan decided that he needed to fiddle with his shifter..."I'm not getting all my gears!" he says...

I laughed at him.

The roll out was nice. Of course there were the rabbits, out to get the KOM points. The rest of us sat in and got ready for a long day.

on to the second section of gravel.

So the first half went by with out a real hitch. Ryan was off the front, riding strong enough that I couldn't really keep up with him. I rolled into the check about 5 minutes after he did. After a bit of fiddle farting around, eating and repacking, we took off again. This next section was the flattest, and also the hardest part. Miles 50 to 60 were fine, but 60 to 73 or so were the lowest point for me. Even though I'd been eating well enough, it obviously didn't matter. We stopped, pulled up the ground and I proceeded to stuff my face. I felt good the rest of the race, but Ryan never could really get over it.

This was a really nice smooth climb up a B road for 3 miles or so. Just a nice constant grade.

They take thier ferbuyfer's seriously here.

Aaaannnd that's what we rode.

From ragnarok

103.3 miles. 7:34 on the bike. 8891' of climbing. 13.7 mph average[I was going for 14, but that last hill killed me.] 47 mph max. 8000 calories burned.

So that's that. Follow the links for more pictures.

Listening to: Johnny Cash//The Big Battle via iTunes suffle function.

I'm silly. Silly for big miles. Tomorrow.

2009-04-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Last fall, after feeling good and strong, and doing well in the cross races I did[top 10, B's/cat 3/4] an anouncement came along the interwebs about this race up Minnesota way in April. It looked intriguing enough. I've been getting into the endurance thing on the MTB side of the bike, and doing ok[a couple top 5 placings in 6 hour solo efforts]. Sure, none of them totaled the milage that this little shindig will. The Ragnarok 105. Its still mountain bikey enough for my tastes, but will be held almost exclusivly on gravel. Yep. 105 miles of gravel tomorrow. Am I ready?

uh, in a word, I don't think so.

See, I had grand plans of riding all winter long on the Pugsley. While I DID ride it, it was generally so butt chillingly cold, than I chickened out and surfed the interwebs instead. Or ate potato chips and dip. Or drank healthy dark beers. This is all evidneced in my gut. Guess you could say I've got some on board energy suppliments.

So anyways. I got this thing tomorrow. I might survive. I might not. You can be sure there'll be pictures forthcoming.

Other than that, I've been super busy at the shop here. Spring has certainly sprung, and people want to get out and ride their bikes.

Trail building is going well. We have almost 3.5 to miles flagged out, and about half that cut/roughed in. We'll start hitting it hard in the next few weeks here, in the hopes that we'll have something ridable soon. I promise I'll update this here blog on a more regular basis too!

Breaking in the season.

2009-03-23T07:06:00.000-07:00

We're getting quite busy here at the shop. I already have a TON of repairs to keep up on. Its been a little tough getting back into the swing of it, knocking out repairs, talking to customers, placing orders, paying bills, etc. I had such a good handle of that last year. I know I'll get it back, and soon. I love having stuff to do.

Been out riding too. Gotta get ready for the Ragnarok 105. At this point, I'm just hoping to survive. Plans were afoot to put in 60ish miles today - but radar is showing a cold rain heading this way. I don't mind cold, and I don't mind rain, but that combination? Hrm, not so much. I'll find a way to make it all up.

For Jason. Kinda hard to find a midwest photographer that doesn't like the old barn theme. Its amazing how much they say, with out saying anything.

The road ahead.

Rider.

We've got stickers on the way[bigish bumper style], and more Tshirts are coming too. I've been cleaned out in terms of clothes lately, so expect to see more shorts and jersey's in soon too!

We're also starting trail building sessions at Badger Camp. Last year, Ryan and I were out there doing a lot of marking, but little to no construction work. That's changed this year. We have enough marked that we decided to get out and start digging yesterday. And it felt good. We got between a 1/2 and 3/4 of a mile complete, ready to ride. We'll take the Pugsley's out to pack in the next few days, and BAM!, just like that some ridable trail. No pictures though, forgot the camera at home. I fail. Next time though! We're going to start up a regular work session day out there soon. Probably two Sunday's a month. I've got the email group set up, just have to emial all who were interested.

The season is just starting to get good, and I'm getting excited. Get out and ride!

Listening to: The Replacements//Let it Be

Things I like: the Cane Creek 100 Headset

2009-03-13T14:23:00.000-07:00

Remember this? The first installment was on the Andrews King Cage, way back on like my third post here. I meant to keep it up more frequently than that. I think it'll just end up being one of those infrequent things that comes up when I find something that really impresses me.

Like these headsets! For a long time, if you wanted a quality headset, you had Chris King(no relation to the above cages!), then maybe highend Shimano or Campy. That was it. Nada. Sure there were upstarts back in the CNC era, but none of them really stood a chance against the King juggernaut.

Until the threadless era came about. Dia Compe(now Cane Creek) came up with a simple collar to aid in bearing compression. Everyone who makes threadless headsets licenses this split ring. Everyone save for King. And this is where King fails in my mind. Sure, nice headsets, they come in pretty colors, and they charge an aweful lot for them.

From new bikes

That green thing? Yep, thats the ring. Now integrated into my pick for the best headset on the market.

Why do I think its so good? Good enough to best the king of them all, King? King once had the market on sealed bearings. They were the first to really perfect the sealed bearing in this application. It took a long time to match thier quality. Welp, good for us consumers, sealed bearing technology has caught up. The bearings in the 100 are quite nice, moving effortlessly even under finger pressure.

From new bikes

The way the parts are machined are very high quality. Everything fits together just so well. Like any high quality part should. The spacers have nice collars machined into them, kind of like a nesting set. The taller one is even relieved on its interior. Nice touch.

I think my favorite part though is the fact that there's not a logo to be seen. Its a very subtle headset that doesn't scream how much you spent! Speaking of spending, that's probably the best part of this whole deal. For something with easily the quality of King(not to mention a better warranty), it retails for well under a $100! Heh, I could even have to your door for under $100.

Yep. I like this headset. A lot.

Listening to: KDEC, Decorah, IA. 100.5, www.kdec.com

Singular Swift = Ridden!

2009-03-11T19:38:00.000-07:00

It was one of those rare moments we have this time of year here. 99% of the snow has been melted off, leaving dirt behind in the woods. Typically, this means traveling in the woods is not recommended as the temperatures are above freezing, but not really warm enough to dry things out.

Such is not the case today. As I type its 16°f. When I rode this afternoon, temps were in the low 20°'s. With last nights single digits, I was guaranteed a nice frozen trail to ride! So I slaved away at work, eagerly anticipating my first date with the Swift.

I wasn't disappointed.

The bike handles very well. Steering is easy, almost effortless. Changing direction happens quickly, but not so fast that you can't recover from any mistakes. There really is a remarkably light touch to flipping the bike through the trees. Nice! Sam did a really fantastic job in coming up with the geometry on this bike. I know he did some voodoo with the front end trail figures. Stuff that I really haven't been able to wrap my head around quite yet. What ever he did, it works. And well.

Climbing was another revelation. A while back, I owned a bike that many considered a benchmark for how it rode. Specifically, how it climbed. I could never get on with that bike. It left my stable pretty fast. This bike though. Night and day difference. Scampers right up climbs easy as pie. Standing and hammering suits it well. Positioning on the bike is spot on with a flat bar and short, flat stem. Seated climbing was much the same, but I didn't really get to test that part today.

Listening to: Iron + Wine//Boy With a Coin

First year down.

2009-03-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

YES! We made it through the first year! Its hard to believe that just one short year ago, The Prairie Peddler was just getting up and running.

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

This was what I started with. A nice empty space. A blank slate to imprint with my personality and passion.

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

Opening day. It hasn't been this clean since.

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

You'd have thought that starting a business in the spring would be a good idea. Then the heavy machinery moved in[yes, I knew about it!]. Nothing like having your street torn up for a few months while you're getting started! Surprisingly, that little fact didn't slow traffic down. I did twice the repairs I thought I would be doing. People found me, that's for sure!

I've sold a few really cool bikes.

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

And worked on few cool ones too. No pics though. I'll save that one for later!

I've also got a new website up for the shop. Something a bit more static that won't change a whole ton, but has good information on it. Check it out! The Prairie Peddler

So to thank everyone, there's a sale going on - EVERYTHING in the store is on sale. 15% off 2008 bikes. 10% off 2009 bikes. 15% off all accessories. Come on down and lets get the 2009 season started right!

Listening to: The Current

Cold? Bah! Its time to ride! Pugsley's out and having fun.

2009-03-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

Its chilly here in the hinterlands of Wisconsin. Normal temps this time of year should be near 40. Thats shorts wearing territory folks. Yesterday was maybe in the 20's with a nice brisk north wind, putting temps on the decidedly cold side.

So what did we do about it? Sit inside, curled up with a hot cuppa tea and a good book? Paint? NO! We flipped off Ma nature, escaped to Iowa and road. Off road. On super hard packed snow and ice. And we had a ball.

We were all [all three of us] on Surly Pugsley's. Those 4" tired monster bikes that the creative minds of Surly have put out. I swear that thing is one of the ten greatest bikes ever made.

That 4" wide footprint does absolutely remarkable things for traction. Yes, even on ice. Without studs.

Yes, you do have to be extra careful when travelling on ice, but it is utterly remarkable that you can ride on it. Even climb up hills. This bike totally defies logic.

Its all about balance. Keep the bike straight. Keep the bike upright. And be ready to tripod it!

This snow was so hard, you could have nearly ridden a 28c tire and not punched the crust. It was SO fun. And very fast with an amazing amount of traction.

Sorry. Porn moment. The Pugs found a suitable cougar to mount.

In the end, yes, we all fell. We all did several 180* spins. And no one got hurt.

And for those locals wondering - Volga River State Rec Area.

They're here!

2009-02-24T20:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, teasing. There's only ONE here, but its the first of a whole slew of 'em! I'm VERY excited to announce that The Prairie Peddler will be the exclusive seller of Singular frame kits in the US and Canadian market! Who, you say? Singular Cycles is a small UK based frame company that produces wonderful steel [4130 cromo, FTW!] bicycle frames with a timeless look, high versatility and quality materials. Great bikes for riding racing or simply bumbling about, no matter how you set them up.

From singular

We will be selling and shipping Swifts, Gryphons, Peregrines, and Hummingbirds out of the shop here in beautiful Prairie du Chien, WI. They all come ready to set up as a geared bike, a singlespeed, or any combination there-of that you can think of. How is this? Each of the frames has an eccentric bottom bracket. And that eccentric is no ordinary eccentric!

From singular

Yeah! A Phil Wood eccentric is included in the price of the frame, ALL of the frames!

From singular

A nice headbadge is there.

From singular

And generous room for big meats. The model I've received first, and the first ones that will be arriving, is the Swift. The Swift is the 29"er mainstay of the line. The one that started it all for Singular. This first order should be arriving in mid to late May.

Of course they can be ordered as a frame/fork kit only, and I'm working on being able to sell the bikes as complete's as well, if that's the direction you'd like to go. Shimano, SRAM or SS of course. As stated above, there is a rigid fork included in the purchase of the bike, but if you would like a suspension fork, I can accomodate that too.

Final pricing on frame kits is yet to determined, but you'll be surprised at how affordable these are going to be! Availablility should be in late May. Availability will be limited! I am only bringing in 100 total frames this year!

If you have any questions, and I'm sure you will, please email me - theprairiepeddler@gmail.com - I'll get back to you as soon as I can!

To see many more Singular's, head on over to Flickr to see lots of 'em.

Drinking: Pearl Street Brewery//That's What I'm Talkin' 'bout Stout

Saturday Am ride

2009-02-16T12:30:00.001-08:00

Saturday Am ride
Originally uploaded by unclefuzzy_ss

One more to add to the mix. Taken with the HERO 5wide. Yep. It takes still too!

A chilly start to the 'training'.

2009-02-16T11:38:00.000-08:00

We've(Eric, Ryan and I) finally begun to really 'train' for the Ragnarok 105 coming up in April. Saturday's ride was a bit chilly, as most days in February tend to be, but with the sun being higher in the sky, it sure did feel good as we rode through the more protected spots of the quickie we did before the shop opened.

It was probably kind of funny to see us riding down the slippery, snow covered roads. There was me on the skinny tired commuter. Eric on his 2.3" mtb tires, and Ryan on his monster truck of a Pugsley. Ryan can't sneak up to ANYONE on that bike. Its got a hum to it that can be heard for miles around.

Sunday, we went to Eric's house for a ride based out of Boscobel. Stats: 27 miles, 2950' of climbing, maxed grade, 20%. Probably a good 50/50 split of gravel to tarmac. Definitely a good ride.

From riding 09

Green+lower elevations, orange = high spots. The ridge ride on the left of the picture was AMAZING. The views went for miles on either side of the ridge. The riding here sure is pretty.

I've just begun to catch up with the Tour of California. They just had a string of outstanding riding days there. Not for the race though. Weather has turned to absolute shite. Rain and cold. Could the ToC turn into one of those typical spring classic's that take a true hard man to win it? Here's to hoping! It'll be good to have a legendary race like that on US soil.

I was reading through VeloNews, getting race updates and ran into this video. His Lance-ness is asked a question by Paul Kimmage. It is clear that neither is a fan of the other. Lance flat out pwned Mr. Kimmage on this exchange. Go Lance. Git 'em!

Listening to: The Current from MPR.

Riding season has begun!

2009-02-09T07:38:00.000-08:00

And oh, does it feel good! Saturday morning we headed out for what is likely the last snow ride of the year. Three Pugsley's, some slightly icy trails, a few bails and back in time to open the store.

Of course this is steeper than it looks. And a whole ton slipperier. It was really, really good to be out, watching the sun rise over the hills. One of those mornings being out that simply makes you feel alive again.

Then on Sunday, we headed out again. This time on gravel over by Elkader, IA. There is a veritable crapload of beautiful gravel roads over there. It really is a fantastic place to ride. I guess I really should call this a training ride. See, I made a rash decision last fall to participate in the Ragnarok 105 up in Goodhue County, MN. I meant to be riding all winter long, so I wouldn't feel so compelled to crash train like I am. Well. This past winter frankly sucked for riding. Too damned cold. But conditions were usually good, but SO COLD. Oh well, I'll just make the best of it, as will Ryan and Eric.

Eric and the Rawland. Me and the Ti Cruiser.
Gravel to ice to slush to ice to gravel. Thankfully, none of it too slippery.
Going over the Turkey River, contemplating ice break up.
Me and my eleventy million cm tall post on the Ti cruiser. First ride. I liked it.
Eric on his new Rawland.

Many thanks to single speeder/Ryan for posting the shots.

Listening to: Boy with a Coin//Iron + Wine

Winter.

2009-02-05T06:09:00.000-08:00

"__________"

That would be the sound of crickets. If crickets could live in weather so far below zero that my thermometer doesn't register it.

But just because there isn't anything here, doesn't mean nothing's happening. There's a BIG bubble on the horizon. If the stars line up, and hope they do, it'll be announced here first!

I've got a few other neat little projects going on. Last weekend was the weekend for Cedar Falls folks to show up. One gentleman brought a nice Roadie up to do a frame swap. Putting him on a Jamis Supernova Cross frame!Both he and I are excited about this one. Two of the other's were brought in by the Pugsley I so strategically place out front. Who can resist the freakbike?! Turns out they're interested in new rides this year too. Who knew I'd be getting customers in from Guitar Ted's turf??? Not that I'm complaining.

I'm also working on a real website that'll be launched on my one year anniversary. Yeah! One year in business! I've made it further than many others, and in a very tumultuous economic time. First I had to make it through a summer with a street all torn up, then winter, and now we have this charming recession. Lets get the stimulus rolling folks. We all need it.

Drinking: McGregor Coffee Roasters//Sumatra. Black goodness!

Mid January. Cold. Snow.

2009-01-15T08:51:00.000-08:00

Here it is, mid January already. The coldest weather of the season has just hit us. This morning it was -20F. Windchills today are supposed to be in the -45F range. Schools been called off. People aren't even going into the coffee shop next door. I'm wearing flannel lined Carharts, and I'm still cold. Gotta love winter in the midwest!

Winter here is usually a time of planning and scheming. There's certainly plenty of that going on this year. To that end, I've got some personal stuff up for sale here. A Surly Pacer road bike, and a Jamis Exile SS.

The Pacer is a 62cm frame, used by me for roughly 600 miles this past summer. Top tube measures 60.5cm, nice and rangy. Parts are Campagnolo Centaur 10spd, with Truvative Roulleur 177.5 compact cranks. Wheels have Velocity Aerohead rims with a Campy Veloce rear hub and Mavic 531 front hub. Shimano XTR seat post, Salsa Ti railed saddle, Salsa 31.8 Bell Lap bars, and a Deda 100 31.8 stem. Head set is a Cane Creek S3. Wieght? oh, not super light, but respectable at about 23lbs.

Price? Shipped for $1100.

The Jamis Exile is the surprise for me this year. I bought it to try it out, not expecting to like it much. Ended up loving it! Its a fabulous riding bike. Especailly for the money! This was bought my me complete stock, but I took all the parts off of it, and put my own on. I'm picky like that. Paul/Salsa Delgado rear wheel, Real/Delgado front wheel. Avid BB7 disc brakes, Paul brake levers. Surly 1x1 bar, Salsa stem, and post. WTB Rocket saddle. Shimano XT octalink 180 cranks, White Industries 17/19 freewheel. King Headset, Surly stainless seat clamp. Tires are Rampage front and a Motoraptor rear. Fork is a newly rebuilt Reba set at 100mm. I'll include the stock rigid fork too. Weight? About 25 lbs.

Price? $1100 shipped.

I'll update with pictures tomorrow!

Listening to: my teeth chattering. And LastFM::Ryan Adams

Pugsley test ridden!

2009-01-02T07:24:00.001-08:00

Not too long back, I bought a Pugsley for the store as a demo rig. It happens to fit me. Imagine that happy coincidence! I was finally able to get the bike out and ride it in its elements on the last day of the year. It was chilly. The high was 10, but during ride time, the temp was falling.

I knew this bike was fun, just from riding it around town, but once I got on it on trail, I was blown away with how much traction there actually is with these humongous tires. This is a really fun bike. Not fast mind you, but fun. Can't wait to really start using it!

Pugsley Dos from Marty Larson on Vimeo.

^^first video. Its a bit long - but kinda fun to do. I'll get better at 'em.

From Pugsley

Steeper than it looks of course, and am I ever glad there's a granny on this thing. Can't remember the last time I used such a low gear!

From Pugsley

Listening to: Morphine//Cure for Pain. Miss you Sandman!

Mid winter blues.

2008-12-29T10:32:00.000-08:00

It happens to us all. Just when the world is literally at its darkest, and warmth seems all to far away, it turns around. We had our longest night of the year back on the 21st. And already things are brightening up. On the looooong drive home last night from Minnesota, Lisa and I noticed that the sunset was later, prettier, and warmer 'feeling' than any we had seen in a while. Seemed like it lasted for ever too. I know we certainly enjoyed watching as we drove along Hwy 52.

Now we have to get through New Years, and this Holiday madness will be behind us, and life can get back to 'normal'. I'm simply looking forward to getting back on the bike! I've got this new Pugsley in the store to play with. The most riding its seen has been to ferry the kids around town so far. Soon, VERY soon, it will see trails. I can't wait.

From Pugsley

I promise to come back with some shots from the trail too.

Here's to every ones happy new years events. Take care out there, and we'll see you in the store soon, eh?

listening to: The Flaming Lips//In The Morning of the Magicians

New bike in the stable.

2008-12-13T13:22:00.000-08:00

A few years back, I had what has amounted to the best bike I've owned. It did everything 'right'. It climbed easy and stable. It carved singletrack like there was no tomorrow. Descending on it was an absolute pleasure. It went exactly where you pointed it, and stayed on track.

From Vassago y Haro

Taken at the trail head of the Dyke Trail near Crested Butte CO.

I loved that bike. And now it has a new happy home near its birth in NorCal. Mike is always sure to let me know how much he likes the bike. And that is a good thing.

I've got something to replace that loved old bike now. It comes from the same mind that the first one did. Its heart is from the same trails. I can't really refer to it by its given name, so it'll juyst be called the Mountain Cruiser. Its all built up now, but I have yet to get a chance to really ride it. Oh sure, its been up and down the block a few times. You can't tell a thing about a bike with just a few hundred feet under its tires though.

From The Bikes

There is this: It looks pretty cool. See, I've never been a fan of cruiser styled mountain bikes. Stuff I've seen from companies like Black Sheep, Merlin and Spicer. I DO like the RetroTec's, but then they started the whole cruiser thing back in the 90's. This one is different. It try to mimic as much as it tries to emulate. Anyways. The lines are clean, cable routing is very smooth. The look is just right.

From The Bikes

Listening to: Clutch // Burning Beard

Holiday Deals!

2008-12-11T15:05:00.000-08:00

Holiday Greetings to everyone out there! We do hope that this winter has been treating everyone well this far. Hasn't been too bad quite yet! We may not be riding as much any more, but we still get outside and stay active, whether it be hiking, running, snowshoeing, skiing, or even snow biking (nutters!). Here at The Prairie Peddler, we have some great cool weather jersey's for both Men and Women. We have some wind proof/water gloves. There's even some wool liner/hand warmers here that would make great stocking stuffers!

Its hard to think about biking in conditions like this for normal people. But warmth is just around the corner, and biking season will be upon us again! Don't get caught out with out some new wheels! ALL of the 2008 model bikes by Jamis and Redline are on sale. Prices have been slashed from 15% to 20%! Can't make a whole payment yet? We'll be happy to set up a payment plan that works for you. We're also working on setting up a store credit card program that will make big purchases easy to deal with, with terms better than 'same as cash' set ups.

Lastly, we'd like to remind every one that we DO have gift certificates and gift cards here to get to your loved ones for the holidays. If you are the giftee, let your gifter know what you want!

Thank you SO much for a great first season! We can't wait to get out riding with you all again next year!

oh, and a teaser.

From Vassago y Haro

To be revealed soon. So very soon!

Listening to: Last FM; Loose Fur station

Surly Pugsley in the shop.

2008-12-08T14:41:00.000-08:00

From Pugsley

So what's a Surly Pugsley? Well, for the uninitiated, its a bike designed to be ridden nearly anywhere. Soft conditions are its natural habitat with its 4" wide tires. Normally, a bike tire will be half that width and run pressures anywhere from 25 to 45 psi. Because of the sheer volume in these tires, one can easily run down into the single digits for tire pressure, making the effective footprint HUGE, creating a bike that flaots rather than sinks in sand and snow. These are very capable bikes, and very versitle.

And this guy is here for ALL to use. I've purchased this bike for you, the customer to come in and check out. See what the weirdness is all about. Of course there are limitations. You should be fairly tall. At least 5'10" to ride it. See, I got it so it'd fit me too. Kind of. Its a bit small for me, but will suffice.

In fact, its already been reserved by Colin on January 10 so he can attempt the Triple D down in Dubuque. Good luck Colin! I see him riding by the shop almost daily, even in the cold we've been having, so I think he'll do just fine.

From Pugsley

For those familiar with the Pugsley, you'll notice that it doesn't have the Endomorph tires[yet]. They're still out of stock at QBP, but should be in this week. The tires on there now are 2.7" Maxxis Minion DH tires. Big Heavy Beasts of tires. Gripped pretty dang well this morning though. I think I let pressure down to near 10psi. They do tend to climb up the sides of ruts though. These will make good ice tires in the end I think. Nice flat profile [talk about edgy!], and a thick casing should make getting screws in easy. I'll have to try to make it up to Mpls for the ice races....

So when I get the tires in, it'll be ready to go. I've got it set up with a smart package of parts. The SLX shifters and derailleurs are working quite well right now. I like the double action on the 'trigger' shifters now. Makes shifting with gloved hands pretty easy to do. The action of the shifters is no where near as sensitive as the SRAM version either. This is very good news.

From Pugsley

The thing that's going to be the oddest to get used to is the 100mm wide BB. The pedals are waaaaaayyyy far apart. After riding it, I feel kinda bow legged.

Again, if you're curious about these monster bikes, please do come in and schedule a time to take this creature out. Yes, even in this cruddy winter weather. I'm sure you'll like it!

Listening to: SOMA fm; groove Salad.

New forkitude.

2008-12-03T09:52:00.000-08:00

I picked up a new fork for the Jamis Exile on Monday. Darrel up at Bluedog Customs built it for me. Why did I get a new fork? Well, the reason's are pretty simple. Looking at it, the stock fork on the Jamis is not very confidence inspiring. The legs are skinny. Very skinny. The dropouts are even skinnier. Its veerrryy long. The disc tab is thin, especailly for the 7" rotor I use. All this sveltness under a 220lb agressive rider just isn't very confidence inspiring. Not to mention the fact that this one(the others in the store are fine) has its legs welded on of kilter. It ain't straight.

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

So what we have here is the Jamis fork on the left. The Bluedog fork in the middle, and for comparisons sake, a Salsa Cromoto(a fork I like a lot.) on the right. The differences between the Jamis and the BDC fork are stunning, no?

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

Details on the BDC fork: Columbus legs, Paragon drop outs/disc mount. Fillet Brazed construction. 480mm tall, with a 40mm rake. Haven't mounted/ridden it yet. Bikes too dirty, and I'm busy cleaning the shop. Once cut, I bet we're looking at a fork near the 2lb mark.

From The Prairie Peddler - creatin the Shop

If you're in the market for a new fork, be it road, cyclocross or mountain, give me a shout and I'll be able to hook you up with one of these. Price will be right about $280 for one like mine, bit less for road/cross. So far, I'm impressed, I can't wiat to ride it!

Listening to: Dan Bern/Soul Coughing/Arcade Fire = iTunes mix-a-lot

Rawland Oalf 650b DONE.

2008-11-26T07:39:00.001-08:00

Eric is a very happy man. He has a bike back in the stable. One of several to come for sure. This one turned out great. During the process of getting it all together, he thought he was going to go with a more....basic build. As you can see, that didn't really happen.

From The Prairie Peddler

Parts are about as shiney as they come. White Industries hubs, cranks, bottom bracket and freewheel add up to a seriously blung out bike[even more so with the double/double set up]. Not to mention the Thomson Stem and Seatpost. And the Ti railed WTB Silverado with Salsa Bell Lap bars. Avid BB7 front brake, and Paul Touring Canti rear. Nice stuff.

And the best thing? The first words out of his mouth when seeing it: "This'll be the cleanest it'll ever be." Awesome.

Drool on.

From The Prairie Peddler

For those curious about the whole 650b thing, feel free to ask away. I've got this bike done, and am currently working on a Surly 1x1 that will be B'd out too[if ever there were a perfect bike, I think the 1x1 is it folks! It can do anything!]. I like the platform, and think that it makes sense.

If you're in the market for a bike like this, I am able to sell Rawland via the interwebs, and will be happy to set you up! My prices are more than fair.

And lastly, lets ALL be thankful tomorrow, and the in the days to come. Be thankful for what we have, and the lives that we're blessed with. We've all got it pretty damned good. Dig in and enjoy the meal tomorrow! I know I will.

And then I'll be back here on Friday, selling away. For the locals out shopping, I most certainly DO have Gift Certificates for your loved ones. If you're in the market for a bike, ALL of the 2008 bikes are 15% off right now. Gotta clear 'em out and make room for 2009!

Listening to: Modest Mouse; The Moon and Antartica

Short one today.

2008-11-24T12:17:00.001-08:00

And there's a reason.

From The Prairie Peddler

I got work to do! Eric will soon be a very happy man.

I did manage to get out and ride this weekend to. Ryan and I are both signed up for the Ragnarok 105 on April 18. We'll be doing this 'training' thing all winter.

One mountain ride in a dusting of snow.

From C1X

And one gravel ride in a dusting of lime.

From C1X

Good stuff! Off to wheel building.

Listening to: The Pixies; Surfer Rosa

Testing. Is this thing on?

2008-11-21T09:49:00.000-08:00

testing a new format. Something wider. Shows pictures better. After all, this is mostly a visual thing.

From YR GRinder

Thanks to Ed and Jason for the inspiration.

Listening to: Steve Earl Copperhead Road

daily [almost] reading

2008-11-19T07:57:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the interwebs. Land of frustrated writers and writing frustratedly [me]. Everyone who spends any amount of time surfing knows that there seems to be no end to to this thing. One thing we bloggers typically do is post little links to other blogs we read. I've done that down to the right there. Yep, yust right down there. I do go to almost all of them on a regular basis. I've found a few though that have been garnering more of my attention.

The best of these is pdxcross. If there's one thing you do today, click this link. Especailly if you like photography. And Cyclocross. The two are combined in this photo blog of the Portland cyclocross scene. For the unintiated, Portland OR is what many would consider the center of the US cyclocross world. I'm sure there are some out there who would debate that, but when you look at what they pull in for registered riders, especailly this year, its kinda hard to argue the point. Nearly every race they have held this year has had over 1200 riders in all classes. Yeah, One Thousdand Two Hundred riders. awesome. Lets spread some love to the rest of the country for what could be the most perfect cycling discipline, eh?

Sorry, got distracted there. pdxcross has what I think are some of the most arresting images of the cross world. There are some brilliant shots to be had there. I suggest starting from the very beginning, and working your way to the present. the coolest thing though is that they're publishing a coffe table book. I'm there.

Another blog I read with a regularity reserved only for bowel movements is How to Avoid the Bummer Life. Its full of juvenile humor, bacon, pbr, Danzig and hijinks on bicycles, and could mostly be considered an arm or leg of the marketing juggernaut of Swobo. This is the blog where I've seen possibly the most awesome rawk band to date. Red Fang. YouTube Prehistoric Dog. Srsly.

Fat Cyclist is one I get to about every two weeks. This one is hard. FC is one funny dude. Just thinking about it, I chuckle. Lately though, the funny's have been replaced by something a bit...more harrowing. Click through and read it. Its very hard to NOT get all wrapped up and sobbey. And dammit if I'm not going to support what's happening there. Win Susan!

I like pictures. Alot. I take them [meagerly]. I look at lots. And these are some of the best out there. Anthony was a regular at MTBR not too long back, but tragically [?] left the place. Not really tragically. Its all for the better. He's happy to not have random haters coming down on him. Read/look at his pictures and see if you can't be inspired to either go ride or take that shot you've been thinking about.

Best run. Read and enjoy folks.

Listening to: Miles Davis//Kind of Blue

Monday Morning dirt!

2008-11-17T13:50:00.000-08:00

The last few Monday's I've been lucky to be getting out and getting some dirt under my tires. With the weather being mostly ok, its been nice to get out and enjoy the woods.

I feel pretty lucky to be based where I am. Sure, its not Colorado with its epic trails laced through ever more scenic mountains. Its not California with its hallowed ground trail systems. Nor is it rock infested technical single track like out east. I get a little bit of all of it. Well, minus the hallowed ground stuff....

As I ride out of my driveway, I have 4 miles to get to trails that are anywhere from easy to down right nasty. I still feel like I haven't gotten a full grasp on how long the network is up in those hills. I think I've hit at least 15 miles so far, with maybe another 10 or so to find.

From Backyard Trails

There's lots of ^^^^^roots^^^^ and lots of \/\/\/rocks\/\/\/

From Fall riding

From Backyard Trails

In between there are lots of sections of utter butterly smooth bliss.

From Fall riding

From Backyard Trails

And occasionally, you do get to break out the thick woods and onto an open vista:

From Backyard Trails

The best thing, and the worst thing, about these trails, is that I am almost always the only person out there. Sure a few of the shots above have riders in them, but they're now college kids off doing their own things elsewheres. That leaves me to leading guests through the system, showing them what's up. I'd sure like to show some [more] locals what we have out our back door. It really is some of the best stuff going. Some day, we'll get more out there. Some day. Until then, I'll be happy know at least I can get out there!

Listening to: blessed silence. No screaming girls. No trains. No sirens. No panting dogs. Just an annoying computer hum. oh wait. Now its off too. Yay!

What Eric is looking at: Bike #1

2008-11-11T13:05:00.000-08:00

You all probably remember the story I posted about a few weeks back. Bad things: fire + bike storage = melted bicycles.

We've been working here to get Eric back up and running. This is his first rig to come through. A Rawland Olaf SS. This is a pretty unique bike. Its designed around 650b wheels, a standard brought upon us mountain bikers by Kirk Pacenti. Its been around the road scene for a while now, initially with the french as touring bikes in the 50's and 60's, but more recently from Rivendell.

Anyways. This bike is unique. If these wheels look big, it because they are. That's a WTB 2.55" tire on the front. About as big as they come. And it fits this bike. Barely. By like 3mm barely. Awesome. I know it doesn't look like it from the angle of this shot, but that wheel DOES go 'round! We were also playing with bars, seeing what looked like what. Drops, yeah. Low risers, yeah. H-bars? nah. Don't really look right on this bike.

From TPP

The rest of the parts for Eric's bike have been ordered. He was originally going to set it up modestly bling...but shiney parts got the better of him, and it'll be fully kitted out with White Industries(yes, I am a dealer now. If you want some swanky WI stuff, let me know!) and Thomson. This'll be a looker when all is said and done.

From TPP

Hopefully, by the end of the week, we'll have a runner here.

I've got another one here to go on about too. Wayne is a regular customer, and general all around good guy. One of the types that you're happy to have around riding with you. Besides being an enthusiastic bike rider, he's also a fervent hunter. He wanted to combine the passions, and came up with this:

From TPP

Bow mount for the Pugsley. He's really enthusiastic about getting to his hunting spots with this bike. What was a 20-30 minute walk now takes him 5 minutes.

From TPP

Sand, snow, thick leaves, farm fields, trail, road, mud. This bike simply floats over all of that in pursuit of game. I love the concept Waynes got here, and will be purchasing a Pugsley for the store and set it up in the window to catch the wandering eye's of local hunters looking for a better way to get out there. A quick google search shows that there just may be something to this. Hmmmm. What about fishing? Ohh. There just may be something to this.

Speaking of H-bars, Jeff Jones created these Ti wonders a few years back. Its taken a while, but they're really catching on now. They're firmly entrenched in the alt bar wars.

From C1X

Titec came out with a licensed aluminum version a couple years back to ease entry into the alt bar world. While that low entry price worked, the bar was admitedly....ugly.

Fast forward to this years interbike show, and Titec done made us all proud and introduced a 'straight' version!

Clamp diameter is 31.8, but the rest is all standard 22.2 fair for mountain bike parts. Nice to see this out there. I have one in the store now for $90, and can easily get more. Stop down and check it out, eh?

Listening to: Tom Waits; Franks Early Years Vol. 1

Of racing and riding and training.

2008-11-01T07:47:00.000-07:00

I've never been a hard core racer type. I'm certainly competitive though. I just don't like driving to all the races, and paying the entry fees. Call me cheap.

But I do get out and race. And have a good time doing it too. I'm maybe a top-of-the-mid-pack-fodder for the most part, but occasionally have a good day. That makes it all worth it in my mind. When everything fit together.

Everything fit together pretty well last weekend at what has now become the traditional 'end' to the season in the area. Decorah hosted the something-ith annual nightshift bike race. A very low key, very fun event. What makes it fun is the people it draws. You'll find shop rats from LaCross, Viroqua, Plattville, Dubuqe, and now, PdC. Kinda cool. Anyways.

I headed over with Ryan after running the shop all day. He generously lent me his Light & Motion Stella light. A small, helmet mounted (THE way to go) LED light. Man that thing just blows away the lights I ran years ago. Halogen? Phhhpyt. Those things are a joke now. So we got there in plenty of time but fiddlefarted around in teh parking lot too long. Long enough to miss the start by about two minutes. So I didn't start exactly where/when we were supposed to. We went the wrong way looking for the start so that ate up more time than it should have. We waited for a few riders to go by, then we jumped in. I felt surprisingly good considering my knee is still acting up from the hyperextension back on the cross race weekend. I ended up riding behind Ethan Hartig from Dubuqe for most of the race. Ethan is a 13(14?) year old ripper of a rider. The kids good. The course opened up a bit and I was able start passing folks on the way to the finish. Ended up 16th over all, and 'first' in class. Both Ryan and I are honest guys though, and gave up our places to those who actually started where they were supposed to.

So that was that. And coming up in the future is this. Probably going to be one of the hardest, if not THE hardest race I've attempted. I sent a psotcard to Issac, the organizer of the Ragnarok 105 race held up in Red Wing MN. The course is 105 miles of gravel road goodness. Like the TransIowa, the coruse isn't marked. At the start meeting, you're handed tulip sheets, or cue cards, with directions printed on them. Getting lost is a distinct possibility. Seeing as how the race date is April 18, getting cold is almost garanteed. Hell, it could even snow. There will be for sure be snow on the north slopes.

So now I have to get a training plan in order. Something to keep me in shape thorugh the winter. Training for a specific event isn't something I've done before, so this'll be interesting.

To that end, I'm looking at doing the unthinkable. Having trainer rides in the shop all winter. Nothing too serious, but something to keep the wheels spinning.

listening to: MPR, The Current.

PS: VOTE! Please. Find time in your day tomorrow to cast your vote.

Tragedy and Pain or Whats Eric looking at now?

2008-10-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

I've got a customer, Eric, who like any true bike geek values his steeds highly. They're all personalized and unique to their owners riding nature. And, like any bike lover, he's equipped for nearly any riding situation, be it snow, trail or road. And of course each of these rigs was put together painstakingly slowly, bit by bit as he found what worked for him and what didn't. The more interesting part is that Eric and his wife moved here(he's originally from this area) from Austin TX about a year and half ago. Since then he hasn't been riding a ton for a few reasons. Since finding my shop though, he's been a regular, and enthusiastic attendee for the rides, and I can count on him showing up in the shop on Friday and uh doing what bike guys do.

But all that passion and effort literally went up in smoke a few weeks back. Eric kept his bikes in a tool shed along with other stuff you'll find on a working farm. This includes lots of flammable fuel. Most certainly something that any of us would never want to have happen to our own collections. Receiving the call from Eric telling me what had happened was hard enough. Going through it would've been tougher for sure.

From The Prairie Peddler

Pugsly, Karate Monkey, and Raliegh road.

From The Prairie Peddler

What's left of a Pinarello Surprise.

From The Prairie Peddler

Thomson stem that WAS black and a cardon bar.

From The Prairie Peddler

Yeti FRO and bits.

From The Prairie Peddler

The barn.

Thankfully, insurance is doing what it actually should for once. The whole kit'n kaboodle is being covered. This is proving to be fun for Eric, and benefiting the shop. Both of us are getting to play with build options that are....unusual.

So what IS Eric looking at? The first bike coming into the store is a Rawland Olaf.

These are sold primarily as a 650b or 27.5" mountain bike. As my friend Ben has happily discovered, they will also accept 2.1ish 29" rubber, making for a very versitle bike. Eric will be setting his up initially as a 650b, testing the waters. This will be a fun build up to document(as will all of these), so check back, eh?

Now I just have to get a camera... Yes, BOTH of my camera's took a dump on me. At least the Nikon is repairable. Having fun looking for a point-n-shoot though.

Listening to: RadioHead Weird Fishes/Arpeggi from Itunes Genius mix based on Iron + Wine; Boy with a Coin.

The First Prairie Cross is in the Bag!

2008-10-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

Wow.

First a BIG thank you to all the volunteer help. I don't think I said it enough yesterday. All you volunteers did a tremendous job. Couldn't have done it with out you.

Second, thanks to ALL the riders who came over. Turnout was good with about 40 riders total. Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and of course Wisconsin were represented. From all the talking I did with racers afterwards, every liked the course, even though it ended being harder than anticipated. Was it the lenght? Or was it the soul sucking long gradual climb right in the middle of the loop? Or was it the heat? MAN was it hot out there! 80+ degrees hot. Talk about unseasonable...And there I was wearing black. Go figure.

My race went uh...poorly. I was off the back almost immediately. I foolishly let out too much air from my tires at the start line. I thought it would make the bumpy course a bit smoother. Not so. I had to ride SO gingerly that first lap. I was waaaay off the back almost immediately. Oh well, I'll jut suffer along and hope I can catch some one by the last lap. Well, I DID catch someone [Dale] who promptly pulled a Benken[long standing inside joke from the 'kato scene] on me. Completely took the wind outta me and my effort. I fell back again and suffered through the heat of the last lap.

I need to give a big thanks to Renee and her crew from Madison for supporting us and coming over. She's the brains behind MadCross, and puts a ton of effort into expanding the 'cross world here in WI.

Will I do it again next year? You betcha! And I sure hope to get even more riders here. For a first year event, I'm glad that 40 showed. Lets me find the errors while they're small and unobtrusive. Will I go for full WCA series calendar status? Probably not. I like keeping this affordable and fun. Should bring out more racers/riders that way.

Some photos: credit for them to Dale. Thanks for coming up from Ill-noise Dale.

In other news, it appears that Mike and I are working on the same bikes. Odd that, since he's in Northern California, and I'm here in Wisconsin. His last two posts in particular are eyebrow raising. I swear I've had this conversation about bar tape with Gita as she's ambling about the shop babbling about babies and puppies.

There must be something in the air with camera's too. Jason seems to be having issues with his stuff too. As any photographer will know, it sucks being with out your gear at any time. If that time happens to be now though. During autumn. With out. a. camera. Ohhh...it hurts!

Listening too: The Current. In the mug: black gold from McGregor Coffee Roasters.

This is just too awesome.

2008-10-08T08:44:00.001-07:00

Gotta post this one up. Watch and enjoy.

Prairie Cross Poster!

2008-10-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

It took a bit to get up - but its worth it! Hope we get a good turn out. Clicky
HERE!to see the pdf.

Cryptic, eh?

2008-10-06T10:43:00.000-07:00

That last post I mean. What is it? Well, stating the obvious, its a map. But you didn't need me to point that out for you. More specifically, its a map to the site of the Cyclocross race being put on by me, The Prairie Peddler and Chris from Viroqua Cross. I'm excited to get this off the ground. I've mailed flyers to other area shops, hoping to pull some riders from there. Hear that La Crosse? Decorah? Platteville? Viroqua? Even you Madison people not heading to Chicago! Come on down for $5 worth of garunteed fun!

On another cyclocross note, I went over to Laphan Peak State Park for the WCA cross race there on Sunday. When I woke at 5:30/dark oclock. I could here the steady pitterpatter of rain on the roof. Great. No really. Great! I love racing in wet, sloppy miserable conditions. Its just more fun that way. Well, that plan/thought lasted untill Dodge Center where it stopped raining. When RT and I got to LPSP, its was all dry and almost sunny. Wish I left the fast tires on the bike now...oh well.

Since I haven't really done a cross race in a few years, and RT not at all, we both decided that we'd start at the back of the 4's and gut it out for 30 minutes or so.

That thought didn't last very long. As soon as the officail said GO!, my latent competitive streak kicked in and I gunned it. I immediately passed a good number of racers and settled into a good pace. Other racers couldn't maintain what they started with though, and I started passing fading riders. Lap two I think I got four in all. Lap three and four, I still felt really good, and started pushing it a little harder, bridging gaps of 50 meters or more between places. Pulled a few nice passes, and made some really good time on the downhills. What really surprised me is that I was able continue closing gaps on the hillclimbs. I would normally expect to loose a bit of ground there, seeing as that I'm certainly above the 200lb mark. I guess living in and riding these hills here has really worked for me!

As I rolled in for the last lap bell, I could see one last rider I though I'd be able to catch, I kept pushing hard, and I was slowly gaining, but not fast enough. I didn't really feel like pushing it TOO hard and crashing out, so I let the gap stay where it was and rode it in.

And this is where the surprise came in. I got 9th of 31 in the field.

Yup, I'm happy with that.

There were lots of cameras there from a photography club in Mwke. Hopefully, I can find some of them. I'll post up if I do!

listening to: Man or AstroMan 1000x

2008-10-03T19:46:00.001-07:00

View Larger Map

Mogrel 'cross!

2008-09-26T13:31:00.000-07:00

Ben showed me his.

Now here's mine. Not quite as, uh, good looking as his, but a mongrel no less. Its an ooooolllld Trek 420 or something that I had canti studs brazed on to. Peiced together from parts in the garage, and its stayed mostly the same for a long time. XC Pro/Araya wheelset courtesy of my man Dale. Ritchey Logic cranks, 177.5 mm long. Ti railed Salsa seat. Bontrager Satelite bars, upside down. Has lived life happily as a commuter for a number of years, but has has seen the race course in the past.

From The Prairie Peddler

There ya go Ben.

listening to: Uncle Tupelo; 89/93 An Anthology

Whew. That storm is over. NEXT!

2008-09-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

The BRAVE ride held last Saturday went well. Really well. The [perfect] day had 76 riders show up for our inaugural ride. They came from Chicago, Colorado, Arizona, Iowa and of course Wisconsin (mostly Madison area). I only changed one flat all day, and only gave one lost rider a ride back to the start. Speaking of lost riders...there were too many.

Something I didn't anticipate was the number of people that would rely on cue sheets for directions. I was (I thought) pretty meticulous about marking the course on the ground, and that's what folks would use to navigate with. Not so. So along that line of thinking, DON'T use mapmyride for cue sheets! Directions were wrong, and road names were wrong. The maps produced are fine, but only for examples sake.

From BRAVE

The views. And a little bit of gravel. Won't be any of that next year.

From BRAVE

More views. Something we're not short on 'round here.

From BRAVE

The day dawned foggy. The drive to the start was stunning. Fog in the valley's, clear on the ridge tops. It was hard to not stop and fill the card up on the way there!

From BRAVE

Yep we have corn. Just not as much as IA.

From BRAVE

Near the top of probably the hardest climb on the route. nearly 600' in a bit over a mile or so. And this guy giggled as he rode by. Nice!

And up next we have something I'm really excited about. The Prairie Peddler and Viroqua Cross are getting together and putting on a Cyclocross Race. I've mentioned it before, but things are starting to come together for it! Went out and previewed the course on Monday. I saw that parking will be at a premium, as there was a JV Cross Country event happening as I rolled up on the Kelly.

I think I may have scared a few people. Not that I want to or anything like that! I milled about, waiting for the course to be clear, then proceeded to ride a few loops. I rode a couple different directions, trying to come up with something that'll be fast, but fun and challenging. I think I've got it. Check the image provided by my handy GPS unit.

News and Happenings.

2008-09-11T08:26:00.000-07:00

Lots happeing here in the next few weeks!

Next weekend we are having the first organized ride in Crawford County. The BRAVE ride will have four route options(from 20 to 80 miles), a locally sourced post ride meal(yay for local farmers!), and DAY CARE. I've not heard of rides offering daycare before. Clicky the linky to find out more.

On October 12, I will be hosting an event from Viroqua Cross. It will be a double points race for those competing in that series. One big thing that could draw more riders here, is the there are no other WCA cross races that weekend. I do hope to see some Madtown and Mwke locals making the trek on over to check it out.

Chequamegon is happening this weekend. Weather is gather up there that looks to be making this years event an epic one. Theres nothing like a good bit of rain to make it hard! Will Mr. creepyfriendly repeat? Or will Jonathon Page represent the cross bikes? I'm not there this year, but the mid-packers better look out next year. I found a way in!

On a personal, business related note, the SBA awarded me with a Small Business Sucess award for this past quarter! I'm honored to accept it, but I can't take all the credit. Everyone who reads this blog has helped. Everyone who has come into the store has helped, whether you bought something or not. And everyone who has helped behind the scenes (Lisa, Ryan, Seth, Kathleen/Dale, Nicole) deserves it more than I do. Awesome!

Lastly, I have to give props to a local rider. Don is a triathelete. Normally, I kind of make light hearted fun of them. Mainly for thier complete geekery. Behind that kind ribbing though, is a hearty respect for what they do with thier bodies. Impressive stuff. Anyways, last weekend Don went to Madison to participate in the IronMan WI, an event notorious for volatile weather. Two years ago or so it was maybe 50 degrees. And wet. The year before it was 95. This year it was about as perfect as you can get. locals know this. Low to mid 70's and little wind. Don took high advantage of this and proceeded to kick some ass. Top 300 finish over all, at a time of 11:55! Not bad. For a 30 something year old. But Don is 56. Needless to say, Don was feeling GOOD. A hearty congratulations to him!

Listening to: The Current from MPR. And MORE construction. I can't wait till the street is done!

Gone Gnoming Saturday.

2008-09-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

So this Saturday, I won't be here. I'll be off riding at Levis/Trow Mound, getting nice pictures, drinking probably too much beer, and having a good time with Sidra(who's coming along with Dad!) We're both very excited.

So I posted a note on the door, if you locals are reading this, please don't be alarmed! I'll be back on Teusday, eh?

On another note, the silly season has begun. Silly season you ask? Yeah. This is the time of year when the bike companies release all the new models. Eurobike is happening this weekend in Germany. While it doesn't really hold much for us here in the US, we sure do get to peak at what may be coming down the line for us. Interbike is the US version, and this will be held at the end of the month here. I'm not going this year, and maybe not the next. We'll see.

With all the new bikes being released, my wallet has been screaming for mercy. Now, I haven't bought anything yet, but there are a few bikes out there already that are mighty tempting to throw some cash at! Salsa just released the Fargo, a bike that promises to provide HUGE adventure. Not that I really have the time nor inclination to take on a week[s]+ long tour. Sure looks fun though. Well, and LOOKS good too. Looks like a mountain bike to me. Simple, and rigid.

This promises to be the first of many. Many bikes that tempt me with thier stunning looks, and promises of adventure, with story's to be told.

We'll see. I'll be sure to post up my favorites here. What I think are bike that are really worth the time and effort to save for.

May YOUR wallet stay safe too dear readers!

listening to: Nothing. fans whirring. Clocks ticking. Cars passing.

Roads. Gravel. Dirt. Chip seal.

2008-08-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

You name it. I like 'em. And there are lots of other folks around that like 'em. All you have to do is look at the proliferation of events like the Dirty Kanza, Trans Iowa and the great grand daddy, the Great Divide Route that take advantage of these off-the-beaten-tracks. Its even gotten to the point that Bicycling Magazine had a spot in the latest issue about hitting up the dirt on your road loop! The horrors....I jest!

Why do I like them so? They take you to places rarely seen by the casual person. Cars are a rarity. Of course yo do still see them occasionally, and they're typically going slower(unless you run into and Iowan - they know how to drive on gravel) Riding sketchy surfaces on skinny tires makes you learn to handle the bike, become comfortable with it floating beneath you. Downhills are...um...all of a sudden interesting endeavors.

You see farms. Actual working farms. Friendly waves are easy to come by. Conversations are sometimes even easier to come by. Its not often some of these roads get traveled, and a new face is welcomed.

You pedal along streams on your left, and sheer limestone walls on your right. Pedaling past pastures so green it hurts. Pedaling through tree tunnels, with cool moist air acting as a natural air conditioner on hot summer days.

Go to flickr and there's even a group dedicated to the Backroad. I find myself browsing through there frequently.

Ok readers, its time to do yourself a favor. Go out and find a gravel road, and take it all in. I feel like you'll be addicted, just like me, in no time.

Listening to: Pandora.com SO much better than Last.fm. I love the internet!

The Tag Game.

2008-08-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

I was just hit by Scott over at The Haraldsons. Scott's a long time friend from the old MTBR days. He and his wife also happen to be muy excelente photographers. Be sure to check out his(and her) stuff, eh?

On with this:
If you could have any one — and only one — bike in the world, what would it be?
I've already had it. And I let it go. A custom filletbrazed steel 29"er, with an eccentric and a derailleur hanger. I want one back. Some day...

Do you already have that coveted dream bike? If so, is it everything you hoped it would be? If not, are you working toward getting it? If you’re not working toward getting it, why not?
I liked what I had, but the Top tube was too short. Too old school. Not really working toward it right now, since I have this little shop thing to really focus on.

If you had to choose one — and only one — bike route to do every day for the rest of your life, what would it be, and why?
It would HAVE to be a mellow, swoopy single track through aspens with a slight downhill in, and a possibilty of peeling off for an after work epic. Can't get too sweaty on the way into work, right? Something like that would simply put me in a great mood. I get happy just thinking about it.

What kind of sick person would force another person to ride one and only one bike ride for the rest of her / his life?
At least my wife understands my affliction. So it wouldn't be her. She actually suggested that I have one bike of genre not too long back. I love her! Other wise I like Scotts answer.

Do you ride both road and mountain bikes? If both, which do you prefer and why? If only one or the other, why are you so narrowminded? I ride both.
Both. And Cyclocross. In the past it would have been mountain only. 'Cause I wasn't that smart. Road/cross has its place. The roads(gravel and tarmac) where I live are awesome. Twisty, hilly, remote, and devoid of cars. Its cycling nirvana. Our trails are good, and options will soon be getting much better. After I put a ton of work into them that is.

Have you ever ridden a recumbent? If so, why? If not, describe the circumstances under which you would ride a recumbent?
Yes. Did I like it? Yes. Will I own one? Nope. I'm neither eccentric enough, nor do I have enough hair.

Have you ever raced a triathlon? If so, have you also ever tried strangling yourself with dental floss?
Are you kidding? Of course not. I can't swim a lick. Wouldn't do one if I could swim.

Suppose you were forced to either give up ice cream or bicycles for the rest of your life. Which would you give up, and why?
Duh. Now if the question were chocolate chip cookies....

What is a question you think this questionnaire should have asked, but has not? Also, answer it.

How does one truly avoid the bummer life?

And to the last one. Who reads me? Mike at BlackMountain Cycles. I'm callin' you out.
Ben at Milltown. And Jason at Gnatlikesbikes. Fess up y'all!

listening to: MPR, The Current. Minnesota has it SO good. Wisconsin Public Radio blows. Thank god for the Internets!

Save the date!

2008-08-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 12, 2008.

Why?

The Prairie Peddler is happy to announce that we'll be putting on a cyclocross race! It is part of the Viroqua Cross Series. As such, it is a points race for what's happening up there. Newlin, time to get down here and do some planning! And to top it all off, there's no WCA races that weekend. Think we'll get an influx of 'easterner's' here? Lets hope so.

The course promises to be fast and furious. It'll be scenic for those not in the pain cave, and with good light, a great photographers course.

Of course I'll be posting updates as organization progresses.

Have suggestions for a name? Mississippi Cross? PdC Cross? Border Cross?

Listening to: Nothing. The shop is quiet. Peaceful.

Yellow River Gravel Grinder

2008-08-11T10:21:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I headed out for a nice mellow-ish grinder yesterday. I'm really not sure if I've been out on a more perfect day this year yet. Temperature(mid 70's). Moisture(none). Clouds(none). Roads (empty). I mean really. Perfect. I will be doing this loop again. Ended up with 30 miles and 3200' of climbing. Really, a good day on the bike. I needed that.

My ankle is still sore from last weeks trail riding debacle though.

On with the pics!

The last 4 miles was on this two track road through the Yellow River State Forest. Nice stuff.

listening to: Pandora.com; Clap Your Hands Say Yeah radio. playing RadioHead and Sonic Youth.

One of THOSE rides.

2008-08-05T06:29:00.000-07:00

You know what I'm talking about. You've been having a great season thus far. Killin' it on the trails, and putting on good miles on the road. You're strong. You feel good.

Then 'that' day hits. Oh, you're fine through most of the day. There are only slight hints as too the mayhem that is approaching. A dropped soda can. Walking into the doorway. Forgetting where you put your glasses(on yer head dumass!)

You head to the trail for the planned ride. You've been thinking of the route all day long, and are looking forward to swooping through sun dappled trails, freshly tacky from the mornings rain.

But what's this? Does your bike want to jettison you, or is something just not right here? I know I've been talking about selling you, but damn. No need to react like this, bike. Stay under me.

Waitaminute.

You're heading for the root. And the rut. And that tree.

STOP! Stopping.

Sliding.

Foot out, grasping for traction. Damned slippery Sidi soles. Damned slippery rotting logs hidden underneath wet slimy undergrowth.

Was that my ankle?

I can recover. Yep, just a small bobble. No...wait...not...recovering...

Where's the seat going? That doesn't feel good.

I'm not landing in poison ivy am I?

Where's that laughter coming from? Oh, your entertained riding partner. Thanks. Thanks for that.

All right. You're sore. Ego's bruised. Lets keep going before the ankle protests too much. A mile later, and a rim hit or two that you just [I]know[/I] gave you a pinch flat, you give up. You're 3 miles into a ride that started ok, but quickly progressed down hill.

Cash it in, called the wife to have an ice bucket ready for the ankle and come back for another day.

Yep I had one of those yesterday. Could have been a great day in the woods, but NOOOOOO. Anyone want a Vassago?

Listening to: Minnesota Public Radio. And fighting children.

Bikes on the floor!

2008-07-31T06:41:00.000-07:00

So I am a bike shop. And I sell bikes. Really I do. But other than the list to the right there, I haven't really mentioned what I've got going on in the store. These are a few of my favorites.

The Redline D440. $550. Great rootbeer color, with sweet pinstriping. REALLY attractive bike. Versatile. Comes stock with v brakes, but the hubs and frame are disc ready. Low rider mounts on the fork, rack mounts in the rear. Its ready for some off road touring!

I've sold one of these already, and have a 21" left.

Redline 925 commuter. Simple singlespeed goodness! Comes as you see it here, fenders and all. Again a great brick red color. Size is a 48(virtual 54). It fits Lisa perfectly. Her favorite bike in the whole store. Has real road bike geometry, none of this super twitch track bike stuff. Really comfortable. $525 out the door. I don't know how Redline does it. So many cool bikes for a real reasonable price.

Jamis Nova Pro. Cyclocross bike. I love Cyclocross bikes. Really versatile rigs. Love them so much that my main roadish bike is one. They ride great, and don't shy away from the dirt/gravel diversions. Anyways, this Jamis, for $1095 is a pretty good deal. 9 speed Tiagra(last years 105) full carbon fork, Carbon seat stays and Ritchey parts add up to a noice bike. And I LOVE the Creamsicle paint.

Sorry these pics are so dark. I think I was fooling with a new flash when I took them.

Also some news in terms of products I carry. If anyone is looking to get set up for some touring, I've got you covered! I'm now a dealer for Arkel bags and http://www.oldmanmountain.com/ racks.

Got a single speed you want to bling up? I've got you covered there too. Paul Components are a mere order away.

Want to build up a hunting/snow/go anywhere bike? The Surly Pugsly is you answer. Team that up with Vicious Cycles(tentative dealer) Graceful Fat Sheba rim at a full 80mm wide, and you WILL be able to ride anywhere.

Listening to: Primus, Sailing the Seas of Cheese. And before that A Tribe Called Quest, The Lowend Theory. Feeling retro today.

Is it the summer doldrums?

2008-07-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

Ok okokokok. Enough whining. On with it.

Been getting lots of good riding in lately. So much so, that I actually feel satiated! Been a while since I've felt that way about riding. 50 mile road rides. 30 mile road rides. Hours upon hours spent in the woods, playing and scheming. Its all felt damned good, and I feel pretty strong right now. Cool! Could I have done this? Probably. Would have been fun to try.

Last Monday with Sean and Will. Both these guys are off to college this fall. Sean to Whitewater, Will to St. Paul. Who's going to replace them?

Yep, it really is that steep.

Yours truly.

Sean:

Will:

Listening to: Last.fm Station: Ryan Adams. Pretty cool site.

What? Where'd I go?

2008-07-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

Yep. We're still here. Still around. And still busy. I haven't forgotten my dear readers here. Just taking a small break during this busy time. Kinda hard to keep going on all cylinders all the time.

I've been super busy with repairs(a good thing). Selling a few bikes(a Good thing). And riding quite a bit(a very good thing). The weather has really been blessing us lately. Guess we're getting our due from this spring, eh?

I'll pick up here with regular posts again soon! I have a few 'Things I like' posts coming up, and I want to start featuring a few bikes from the floor. This IS a shop blog after all, and I AM trying to sell bikes.

Listening to: Bon Iver; For Emma, For Ever

Went for a ride this weekend.

2008-07-01T05:52:00.000-07:00

Took a family trip up to Winona to see the Kato Krew. Drink some beer. Watch the kids do silly stuff till we intervened. Drank more beer. Looked at really old vids. Drank more. Ate pancakes and egg bake for breakfast, then ran down to La Crosse and hit up the HPT trails. As always, a great time was had there. Rode the new connector that will link to the Quarry part of the system. Can't wait to see what develops there. Should be a great system when its done.

Listening to: Limbik Frequencies. Got the trance on today. Thanks Rick!

A Short Bontrager History lesson.

2008-06-26T09:35:00.000-07:00

So there I am, cycling my way to work with the kids en tow. There's not a whole ton of nice bikes floating around PdC yet(I'm working on it! give me time!). So it stands out when I see a nice lugged road bike toddle on by. Of course we wave as we approach, but as we pass, as true cyclists, we look at each others bikes. Mine is simple. Not flashy. Unadorned with stickers.

As the other rider passed, I noticed a familiar "B" dot script.

Hold the horses!

I squeeel to a stop(stupid brakes...gotta work on those...) and I shout out. "Hey! is that really a Bontrager?" He looks at me, puzzled, like anyone around these parts should know that name? Yes he says, it is in fact a Bontrager. A lugged roadie, all kitted out in late 80's Shimano Ultegra parts.

We circle each other eyeing up the rigs. His is of course the interesting one. He says there's an interesting story behind it too. He got this bike as a form of payment from Keith. Turns out Ells, as he's known, knew Keith back in the Day, and used his student loan to purchase Keith's first batch of tubing.

Kind of a nice introduction to the day, finding a bit of mountain bike history in my little river town. I look forward to riding more with Ells and maybe even prodding his brain for some stories.

The Saturday ride will most likely happen, though I suspect it may be shortened. I'll be taking pictures at the Showdown on Friday, and a few beers will inevitably find their way into my hands.

Listening to: Hammers. And cordless drills. And saws. Why? you'll see soon!

mmmm. DecoraHHHH.

2008-06-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

Had a great ride there yesterday. 20+ miles of singletrack bliss.

Mo is in there somewhere.

listening to: Two babbling kids, chirping birdies, and passing cars. 'nother great day!

Unexpected, but welcome guests!

2008-06-20T12:25:00.000-07:00

So there I am working away yesterday when pops in one Andy Davis. Who is Andy, you may ask? I don't know! Well, I didn't know. He was just another guy out for ride[a really really long ride] who stopped by the shop. He and his partner, Melissa, stopped by Simply next door to grab some lunch on thier tour through the country. Andy and I got to talking about what they're doing, how they're doing it, and how far they have to go. I"ve always wanted to be one of the locals that folks on a trip like this run into that are able to house, feed, and show a good time. As luck would have it, Lisa and I were able to do just that with Andy and Melissa. We had jam last night again, they pitched a tent in the yard, and took a shower in our house. It really was an honor to have them for the night.

The point of their trip is to highlight sustainable development, and sustainable practices that are happening all across the country, in big cities and small. They're taking photographs, and shooting digital video. They hope in the end to have enough material to put together a movie. Here in PdC, they got two interviews out of a stop that they didn't think would really yield much. They talked to my friend Kathleen and about the project she's headed up - the Farm to School program - that aims to get fresh local produce into the local school system.

They also talked to me about the roles I've played here in town. From City Planner to Businessman, and the differing approaches to community building that each of those postion takes.

I'm putting up a link here on the TPP blog. I hope you check it out and follow along on thier quest. Especailly if you have an interest in sustainability. I'm betting that they're going to uncover more practices than they thought possible. Seems like they already have lots of material!

Oh, and to top it all off, they're getting hitched at the end of the trip. Best of luck you two. It was grand to meet you!

listening to: Boot Liquor. Again. But damn is it good!

Music, riding and sunshine!

2008-06-18T07:52:00.000-07:00

In another installment of the art spectrum at the Prairie Peddler, Lisa has been holding jam sessions down here at the shop on Thursday nights. Last week, we threw caution to the wind and brought the kids down so they could see mom play. K&D were thinking the same thing and brought their kids too. It ended up being well worth it. We heard some great music, and the kids had a great time. Got some neat pics too. For you locals reading this, these are open to the public! We don't have a ton of room. Bathrooms aren't open, and there's no food or drink. Just a simple music hearing is all thats on tap. The door is usually open[literally]. Come on in!

Bikes and dancing. Yep, life is good.

Ghost kids.

Now that we have sunshine, and warm temps, the riding has been fantastic! With the rain gone, and warm windy conditions, the trails are drying out nicely. Thankfully we were sparred the flooding that most of the rest of the region has been getting. If you're jonesing to get some dirt on your knobbies, I can help ya!

Sean got a new rig. He likes it.

A long road ride is scheduled for tonight. We're thinking in the 40 to 50 miles range. If'n you're ready come on down! I got fuel for ya if you need it.

Listening to: Big assed construction rollers. Vibrating my world right now. We're going to have a road next week!

Breaking news!

2008-06-12T09:59:00.000-07:00

Well, not really breaking for those who live in these here parts. Guitar Ted, the genius behind The Trans Iowa, The Guitar Ted Death Ride Invitational and the Big Wheeled Ballyhoo has decided to cancel this years Ballyhoo.

No real surprise there considering THIS is supposed to be ground zero for the weekends event.

Here's to hoping that next years event goes off with out a hitch! And there WILL be a next year.

I'm also here to say that I received a call from Ben Shokey, manager of Decorah Bicycles, and he told me that despite all the bad news coming from Decorah right now, the trails are still VERY ridable. In fact he and Deke from Oneota River Cycles are still going to host an event June 21-22. They have secured a location for camping, vendors from the Ballyhoo are more than welcome to still show up and demo wares, but this WON'T be the Ballyhoo. Chances are there will be some kind of enduro race/ride and other shenanigans. So if you're local, have this weekend already wiped clean to attend the Ballyhoo, come on down and you can still ride your bike! I'll be there.

And to echo Guitar Ted's sentiments, lets hope and pray we break out of this rain cycle soon enough. I just heard that Cedar Rapids is now underwater. Iowa's had enough punishment for being Iowa already!

Listening to: The Weather Channel. This just in! the Midwest is going to float away!

Monsoon season?

2008-06-09T06:37:00.000-07:00

Guitar Ted suggested it this morning, and after living through it the last few days, I gotta say its true. Decorah was hit hard. I wish I could get there to help, but KDEC is telling folks to just stay away at this point. They have both too much water, and too many volunteers at this point. I really want to head over there though. Normal flood stage is something like 12 feet on the Upper Iowa. Water levels now are at 17+, and all low lying areas are being evacuated.

I've got a good group of friends that live there. Here's to hoping things are going to be ok for them. Hope their homes are up and out of the flood zone.

A few rain totals:
Dorchester IA; 9"
Yellow River State Forest; 2.9"
PdC(home); 1.5"
Lansing IA; 3"
Crescoe IA; 4½"

Due to all the rain, the Monday Mountain ride is off. I may still head out to check the trails at La Riviere, but won't be doing too much riding methinks...

Updates and cool stuff.

2008-06-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

Some of you may have been aware that I've been with out a home computer for a while. Its amazing how much time the shop work takes up. Doesn't let me get much posting here done from there. So its good to be back here. I've got a few tasty tidbits for update here.

One; the Family Fun ride Friday went off great! Three families attended with kids far and away out numbering the adults. The jungle gym was played on. Food was ate. Frisbee thrown, and bubbles blown. We really look forward to doing this again. Probably the second week in July.

I've had some cool bikes in the shop, getting work done. Fillet Brazed road bikes. Really nice old school MTB's, more old cruisers. Good stuff. Blingy wheels. Fancy road bikes sold.

A sweet Colorado made GT Edge with Mavic parts. Belongs to local rider, Eric.

And herloom Ross Mt. Whitney with full Shimano Deerhead(precursor to XT for the non-geeks in the house)

A neat old Sears & Roebuck 20" kids cruiser.

And 29" bling. Hope SS hubs laced to Salsa Delgado race with DT 14/15 spokes and black brass nipples. Loud. That's all I gotta say.

Casey bought a Surly Pacer road bike that I lovingly put together for her. I've also got a CrossCheck frame in stock now too. 50cm w/a 54tt. Want it? lemme know!

And all this business despite this:

I understand my friend Ben up in Faribault, MN is going through the same thing. All I can say Ben is, enjoy it while you can. It really is fun to watch these guys work. The business will come. And that goes for the rest of my business compatriots here in Prairie du Chien. Yes, its hard to have the streets ripped up, but they work quick. So long as you are prepared, it'll be ok!

Listening to: KDEC - a great local station out of Decorah, IA. I'm soooo lucky to have them to listen to! We've been innundated with water this week, and the DJ's there are doing a fantastic job of keeping us up to date. They RULE! One day soon, we'll all be able to listen online.

Family Fun ride Friday!

2008-06-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

You may have read or heard that we're going to fully institute the FAMILY portion of our shop tag line recently.

This Friday, June 6, we will have the first of many Family Fun rides. Normally, we'd start from the shop, but with all the construction happening downtown, getting out safely is a concern. For that reason, we'll start at BA Kennedy school on Wacouta. From there we'll head out in a big ol' train to a park. What should you bring? Mom's, Dad's, kids, trailers, bikes, helmets, food, frisbee's and a good attitude! Pace will be slow and steady, and distance will be short. Should be fun!

In other news, I'm really excited for the Big Wheeled Ballyhoo coming up here in the next few weeks. I'll be taking over a few bikes for folks to ride, and I'm hoping to ride a few myself. I've got my eye on a couple Salsa's already! For those interested in just what a 29"er is, and rides like, come on over to Decorah and check it out. I'm sure there'll be a 650b or two around there for the even more curiouser out there. Decorah is a great town and well worth the drive to see. And the trails really are pretty dang good.

The shop rides have been going great, despite the weather conditions. Last nights mountain ride was really fun, with a constant drizzle the whole time. Yeah we got wet, but the conditions couldn't have been better. The sandy parts were all ridable, and the dirt was tacky and fine. Thanks for riding Doug!

Watching: Gerke construction rip out my sidewalk. No wonder big equipment guys are paid so well. They're extremely delicate with this big machinery. Impressive to watch.

Fear not dear readers. The Peddler is still here!

2008-05-27T14:39:00.000-07:00

Just busy as all gitout! Haven't had much time to post up here. Busy at the shop. Busy riding. Busy with life. Its amazing what warmer weather brings with it in terms of stuff to do. Especially for the person who likes to be outside. Like me.

Anyways, lately, I've hit up Blue Mound State Park for a good ride. And it hit pretty hard. For those who live with in a two hour drive, it is well worth hitting up BM for a lap or two. Lots of rocks. Lots of trees, and lots of wonderous hard single track. It is certainly NOT a place for the faint of heart, or thin on experience.

Then there's the trails at Sidie Hollow near Viroqua. Smooth, sinuous and flowy. Kind of the opposite of BM. And damned if they weren't just as fun. They built a new trail there that climbs from the lower campground up to the top. Generally its hard to call a climb fun. This one is. Its just flat out enjoyable. Challenging, tight, switch-backy and down right pretty. So cool. Got some good stories about yesterdays ride there, but it'll have to wait till later.

Gotta go home now. Pictures later too! Promise!

Mornings like this are why I still like riding.

2008-05-17T06:53:00.000-07:00

50°, sunny, birds twittering, bunnies froliking, Turkey vultures sunning(really). This mornings ride was as good as it gets. 20 miles knocked out in 1:15, top speed was 65 (hehe), averaged 17. I'm happy to say that I'm feeling good right now, and am probably in the best shape I've been in in years. I love my new job!

Art in the shop!

2008-05-15T05:22:00.001-07:00

So those who've been kinda enough to follow along this journey so far know that I also sell art created by local and regional artists. Cool! you say, but where the heck is it? What and who do you carry? I've been remiss in not highlighting the art. And that's changing today.

We'll start with Pottery and Paintings.

Greg Cheesboro is the potter/brew head/bathtub bass[you should see him get down on the one string!]ripper/biker that created the pottery below. Beautiful works!

For paintings, we have two artists. Hilary Berg and Margie Larson. Hilary came recommended to us from a mutual friend. Nate and Katie - or Natie as they're referred to around the house here - and we're really happy to have her beautiful art here in the store. Its really beautiful, organiclly done work. You really do get a 'mood' out of the work. Can you tell I like them?

Also up is work by Margie Larson - who also happen to be my mom. Her work is again very organic in nature, taking both scenic and a botanical feel to them. Great stuff!

Other artists in the shop are Nicole Martin, a local jewler, Anna Rodriguez, a fiber artist and me with photography. I'll feature them/me in another post.

On to riding. Its getting REAL good folks! The weather is about to break and finally. FINALLY turn to spring/summer. The road rides have been popular since I started, with many faces attending. I look forward to seeing who shows up each day. This Saturday is on, 7 am as usual. Probably do something similar to what we've been doing already, though soon I'd like to start expanding the ride length, maybe. We'll see how that goes over.

On Monday, we had 5 show up for the mountain bike ride. We went over to Yellow River for a short spin through the woods.It ended up being a great day. And the best thing about it? I was able to ride with Lisa again for what seemed like the first time in years! That was great. Really was. I'm one of the lucky guys that gets to ride with his wife, and she likes it! So cool. Anyways.

Listening to: Minnesota Public Radio. Only the best! Oh, and drinking a niiiice cuppa from McGregor Coffee Roasters. Local done good!

Saturday Morning = Road ride on!

2008-05-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

Yep, the weather is finally breaking. Its beautiful today, I'd play hooky if I could. Larry stopped in and said he had the day off. All with a big smile on his face. You know where he's off to. I wish I was with him! It might be a bit chilly at 7 on Saturday though. Arm warmers and knee warmers to the rescue!

So I found a few nice shots from the opening - but they're not up loaded yet. Soon. Soon.

Road Ride Wednesday was all me. Dale had to work, and no else showed. Ended up being a super nice day. Breezy, but nice.

Steep climb #1. Of course this is steeper than it looks. Near the top of Vineyard Coulee Rd. Nice short burst of 12%.

Moseying along.

The second, steeper, longer climb. Really pretty though, so you kind of forget how painful it is.

Abandoned bridge near the end of the ride. I've always liked this spot, and wanted to stop and take pictures. I'll head back with the good camera to get better shots later.

So on the ride down Limery - which we usually go up - I hit 60. Yep. 60 miles an hour, not 60 kph. I also hit something that knocked my rear wheel all wonky. Great. I hate working on my own bikes....

On to the Camp Ingawanis race over in IA last weekend. Great course. Fun flowy single track for five miles made the race a pleasure to do. Had so much fun riding that I performed pretty well. They had a 35+ Sport Masters class. I figured that since I qualified, I may as well do it! Turns out I did pretty well. Got 2nd in class, and by my count about 10th over all. Feels good to be doing so well at races this year.

Listening to: Hank III; Straight to Hell. REAL country music.