A crusty P.O.V

Suffering Phucking Writers Block

2011-04-09T10:14:00.003-05:00

but I'm giving this a go...

Seriously is this speed up? I can't twirl my hula hop that damn fast yet...

Ze Fest(bikes, beer, & tubas)

2011-02-15T19:14:00.003-06:00

Straight from ze man himself, ze plan.

Das semi-ANnuAL Ur-men Ride

1st. Street Cred. Do you have it?

2nd. ???

3rd ???

4th Benetti's around 6pm

5th Rhineland

6th ????

7th ?????

So don't be a...

Spring Is Coming Early

2011-02-02T09:52:00.001-06:00

mwi Shout Out Video Style

2011-01-24T18:54:00.003-06:00

Those Who Cannot Remember the Past Are Condemned To Repeat It

2011-01-22T06:02:00.005-06:00

The quote from George Santayana is so appropriate for this:

Obviously someone cannot remember why the park that was originally a motorcycle park got closed. Letting people acccept hazards at their own risk. During that time period the yellow pages weren't 3/4 filled full of lawyers. Evil Knievel was still doing tricks. Motocross was on the cusp of Xtreme sports.

Now we sue for someone letting their dog take a shiittee in our yard. It is extremely unfortunate that we actually think those that partake in this endeavor will actually know what 'ability' they can ride at. I hope for all those that enjoy Landahl Park take a second look into the past of the park and wake up to the future.

Because if you honestly think a 'warning sign' will stand up to closure your wrong.

History of O

2011-01-20T17:28:00.000-06:00

History of Oakley from Defgrip on Vimeo.

You Know If It's You Or Not....

2011-01-16T10:44:00.001-06:00

Beer of the Week (Belgie Style)

2011-01-14T17:36:00.001-06:00

Characters Make a Team

2011-01-08T10:39:00.000-06:00

Beer of the Week Christmas Edition

2011-01-04T19:30:00.003-06:00

Bagged & Tagged The Rapha 500

2010-12-30T16:29:00.004-06:00

All I can say is that somewhere out there is a Fat Lady Signing.

Today laid out its own challenges that I haven't experienced during the Rapha Festive 500. First off one of my fair weather buddies decided to come out and join me for half of the ride. Thanks K-Lew for the ride to Benetti's.

Before arriving I had a close call with a Toyota Mini Van that decided it was a smart idea to turn around on a steep downhill curve. Luckily it wasn't wet or I could have came up short on miles. Not more than a couple minutes later I had a rear flat. Must have embedded something after the little e-stop. As the saying goes 'Things come in three's' well to top it off a squirrel decided to make a mad dash across the street as I was at top speed downhill. Again luck played it's part because the little sucker turned tail to go back the way he started. Very close call.

At this point I was getting a little nervous if I was going to be taken out before getting all miles in. I finally arrived home. The ride was one of those that you would actually like to stay out to enjoy the weather. Albeit the wind was at a sustained 20mph with gusts reaching 40mph. Maybe I should have heeded the wind advisory. Nope there was a task at hand to which I was going to complete. Which I did. I'm still amazed that I pulled it off. Now I hope I get one of the patches.

I would like to the think Rapha for coming up with the challenge. It really forced me to dig deep to achieve the final miles/k's. Feel really good right now, but will see what happens tomorrow.

Photos.

Total

281.9+33.22=315.12 miles.

I'm Going the Distance for the Rapha 500

2010-12-29T17:39:00.004-06:00

That's right. I"m going make this thing with one easy ride to Benetti's Coffee Experience tomorrow. I really had some doubts about the idea after the weather took a nose dive. Somehow I managed to hang tough for two absolutely shitty days. Now tomorrow they are calling for 59 degrees. Really it doesn't bother me that the winds will be 25miles an hour. Cake walk after doing that in 10-20 degree shit with the same winds. So excited to wrap this baby up and deliver it to Rapha.

Tomorrow I will download my rides via Map My Ride since I totally blew it with the download of total debacle. I almost did it again tonight. Tired, a little tender all over the whole body. Miraculously the rig is starting to feel the same. I can tell by the little noises that it started producing today. Or maybe it was the shear silence in the fog amplified everything.

Very strange day of riding. The drizzly was more of a sprinkle the entire time going south. Until I reached my furthest point. Then suddenly the mist stopped. The fog, well it hung tough although on the southeast side it subsided just a little. I wasn't quite as afraid of the Loch Ness Monster coming out of the woods. Although I've heard the chupacabra are in the woods out south. Just saying they can migrate you know.

Photos

Total

138.1+143.8= 281.9 total mileage

281.9-310.6= 28.7 left to go

Just remember that you have to go back a couple days before I downloaded & cleared my running total.

Tequila Sunrise Goes Well with the Rapha 500

2010-12-28T19:47:00.004-06:00

After last's night pitcher today was going to be a rough one. Well so I thought. With the temps rising, the sun out, plus a little hung over from margaritas I donned my kit. Rolled out the door.

The route was to be the Cultural Enhancement Tour. Why the name? Well it leaves from the suburbs; travels to the urban core via a mix of countryish outcrops to full on golf course locals along the spin. The route visits five different cities along its path. One dedicated gravel path, a greenway trail, then urban streets to reach the destiny for today: Broadway Cafe.

Along the route today ran into several riders which was nice to see. The PRO's from 360 w/Marshall. Then stopped One Eyed Z for a little catch up, then off I rolled.

Todays reward

Double Soy Macchiato & Vegan Pumpkin Bread

Photos.

Totals

Here's where that higher education + ADHD=crusty's total mileage

138.1+30.61-92.12=230.22

I actually can relate. Just substitute 'Mr. Brownstone' for Rapha 500

Rapha Day 5 Late

2010-12-28T09:30:00.004-06:00

All well laid out plans are made to be broken. Especially if you decide to stop my your favorite Mexican eating establishment, Fiesta Azteca. Usually when the boss and I stop there we get a half pitcher of margaritas. Well this time I decided to go the full monty. Which was a gooood idea at the time but today it might not be. Only time will tell.

I did ride yesterday. The previous days effort played a big role in the later than usual start. The weather really took it's toll on me. Not that I was pushing pace. I'm thinking the 20 degree temp that effected more than I thought it would. Oh well, living to fight another day.

Yesterday's route was a favorite of mine, in the summer. Now I know why. To many hills, not enough rest in between. Who said Misery was flat? I will show them the opposite. We may not have 10-30 minute sustained climbs. It the endless rollers that will wear on a man's soul. So today's plan is to hit the cultural enhancement tour. With the temps climbing and the possibility of rain I need a big push today and tomorrow to secure the 310.6.

Photos.

Total

138.1+30.61=168.71miles

I made the mistake of leaving the computer on to charge the Garmin. Then it downloaded my history. Damn. Now I have to add this stuff up. Guess that higher education will come in handy after all.

Celebrating Boxing Day by Riding for the Rapha 500

2010-12-26T16:14:00.004-06:00

Boxing Day? When I first heard that I thought it was celebrating actual boxers. You know another holiday commercialized by the man. Except this time Don King stepped up.

Enough of that...Today has been the coldest day so far on this Rapha Festive 500 Challenge. When I started it was 19degrees with windchill dipping into almost single digits. Really, really, really cold. After yesterdays mistakes I made sure to correct the issue. Proven windproof fronts. Complete comfort was reached. Actually enjoyed todays ride even been the extreme range of my riding delight.

From this point on it's looking alot easier. Mother Nature didn't break me today. With the weather turning warmer over the next few days I'm feeling confident I will get my patch.

Alot of shots today.

Running Total So Far

Willy Pete Didn't Appreciate the Rapha 500 Contest Today

2010-12-25T16:25:00.004-06:00

With the temps topping out at 27 degrees with wind gusts up to 25mph out of the NNE made the wind chill below 20 degrees. That's phucking cold outside to be riding. Amplifying the windchill with the speed I carried I can only imagine how cold it actually was.

When a manufacture produces items that say they are windproof fleece how do they test them? Well my test today wasn't the best results a cyclist wants/like's/asks for. You hear often enough how cycling effects the prostate. If your windproof fleece isn't windproof your Willy Pete will affect your mental state faster than a greased pig getting a away from well....nevermind. I felt great for sometime, until the windproofness? gave way or wait, the shit wasn't windproof in the first place, with the constant wind today.

My first thought was to change direction heading into the west to give me(Willy Pete) some reprieve with the crosswind. But for some unknown reason every time I turned west it seemed that it was a headwind. Son of a Botch, this isn't going how I planned. My conspiracy theory seems to be playing itself out to a 'T'. Mother Nature is working in cohorts with Rapha to make sure I don't get my stinkin patch. I NEED THAT STICKIN PATCH.

Any way I went was the wrong direction so I had to pull the plug otherwise I think it would be hard to explain to an ER doctor why the Willy Pete is frozen at the tip. Since it was so cold I only got some shots when I stopped to make sure Willy Pete still worked.

UPDATED: Feeling is slowly returning. Slowly, painfully, but things seem to be ok.

Total Damage Accumulated Thus Far

Mother Nature Can Be A Real Bitch For The Rapha 500

2010-12-24T19:41:00.006-06:00

I'm not kidding. I really mean it. All I want to do is ride my bike for 50+ miles a day. Look that should be simple. Unless Mother Nature & Rapha Festive 500 have a deal going I don't know about. If so, I will overcome. If not I'm going down trying. Both fist's flying, legs a spinning, and with lungs burning to get that patch.

Snow was in the forecast. Well this time the weather folks got it right...

Temps just above freezing made sure it wouldn't stick. Unfortunately I figured it would be a better call to take the MTB out for a spin. That was the right call until I discovered some very busy trail gnomes have cut and signed some new trail. Very fun trail if I should say so myself. The next time I go I will make sure it's a little drier. Rocks and roots covered in snow are a little treacherous. Fun, just a little more than I was ready for.

Today's ride started to push my limits. Toe's got wet, then cold. Glove's became wet from all the snow, then a bit chilled. Mind began to wonder. Luckily I had iPod cranking out some tunes. Tried again to get some shots. Big gloves, snow, fogged up lens caused some problems.

Totals

I'm thinking I should get some extra credit for total mileage. Seriously!

I'm totally shelled.

It Has Begun: Rapha 500

2010-12-23T20:23:00.006-06:00

I took the first step err pedal into reaching the final goal of the Rapha contest Festive 500. Knocked off 69km(49mi) not exactly what I wanted but you have to start somewhere. I tried to take some shots of riding in the country from dusk to night time. Its kinda of difficult taking shots with winter gloves on.

Amazing how riding in the country takes on a new perspective from daytime. I've ridden at night in the woods plenty of times. Riding on the road on County Maintained roads is one thing during the day. At night following two separate lights(one on the bars, the other on the helmet) at adds an element all its own. The country dogs really don't know what the hell to do when they saw a couple of lights moving up the road at them. Possums well they played possum. No photos of those guys, those teeth scare the shit out of me. So I just kept moving on.

Ok tomorrow's plan is still up in the air. The weather is going to make it a challenge. But I want that patch. Might have to try and bag 50miles on the MTB.

Merry Christmas Eves Eve...

Day One

Accept NOT Except

2010-12-18T13:52:00.003-06:00

These words are no where near each other in terms of definition. Just as close as positive and negative on a AA battery.

Accept.

Except.

I really have to thank the auto-correct on my phone. Damn technological advancements so I don't have to think of which word I would like to actually use.

Why the hell am I bringing this up anyway?

I accepted(not excepted) the challenge of Rapha. I'm striving for the patch. Then IF i get the patch I'm thinking I'm going to need(not want) this or that to sew it onto. You never know I could win the winter bundle?

So how do I plan on accomplishing this task:

Thursday 23rd: after work getting 20-30 miles off road
Friday 24th: Buckner 50-60 miles
Saturday 25th: CET with the Dead Hooker Loop 70-80 miles
Sunday 26th: mwi Gents Race scouting 70-90 miles
Monday 27th: Lone Jack Lollipop loop 50-60 miles
Tuesday 28th: Downtown Loop 60-80 miles
Wednesday 29th: Pleasant Hill 50-60 miles
Thursday 30th: mwi Gents Race full monty 80-100 miles

Lofty goals I know. But I did accept them not except them. I want that patch!

First posts will be up at my Posterous. Then I will try to update here with more visual bicycle eroticism.

I guess this will embark my new challenges I mentioned earlier this week for '11. Yea, I know its NOT the new year but damnit it's close enough. It will add money to the bank for the next year of adventures.

BTW, its almost Christmas...

Beer of the Week

2010-12-15T20:01:00.002-06:00

A New Chapter

2010-12-11T20:25:00.004-06:00

With 2011 some changes are coming like usually for all of us. We make plans for new races, challenges to spark our competitive enthusiasm, set goals for the ones we 'know well' and look forward to some new toys.

Well for the mwi crew our first change is that we are going for Sponsors in '11. So with that I would like to welcome our first Sponsor: Corsa Concepts. Have a peek, get right up there and get to know them. Look for us to be 'wearing' some new hoops to match our uncanny kits.

I'm thinking that there could be some more announcements on the way...

2011 Starts

2010-12-05T19:28:00.003-06:00

But first I have to get rid of 2010 items:

1st on the chopping block:

Blue NorCross Med/Lrg. Ultegra Shifters, Rear Derailleur, BB. Dura Ace Cranks, Front Derailleur. FSA SB25 Carbon Post, OS150 (120mm), New Energy Ergo Bars (44cm). Fizik saddle k:ium rails & tape. Thorne Rings 46/38. Spooky Brakes. Swiss Stop pads. Ultegra hubs 32hole, DT Revolution spokes & nipples. Mavic Open Pro Rims. $1450

2nd on the chopping block:SOLD, SOLD, SOLD, SOLD

Blue NorCross Med/Lrg. FSA SB25 Carbon Seat Post, OS150 stem (120mm), New Energy Ergo Bars 44cm. $700

Got the road/TT/crit/gravel bike newly dressed up for the upcoming season of preparation. New/old DA set up now on it. New tape, cable housing & cables. Trying something out a little different this year after discovering my old Fizik tape didn't cut it anymore. Sticking with Fizik but added a double layer, then the magic trick for gravel adventures. All colourways are mwi approved.

One Rocking Show

2010-12-01T15:29:00.002-06:00

Forgot I went to see these guys...(its hell getting old)

Beer of the Week

2010-12-01T15:28:00.002-06:00

Whirl Wind Catch Up

2010-11-30T19:42:00.002-06:00

I have NO idea what has happened in the last couple of weeks.

First.. 24 years and counting...

Second... 2 years and counting for getting crashed out on Friday nights race at Jingle Cross.

I know this was the best start I've had all year. The best thing of all was that JJ lead out over the pavement only to have me slide to the inside and lead out till I picked the wrong line going into the off camber. Then I was only relegated to second. But right after that some douche decided to give me the stiff arm/hip to my left arm forcing the front wheel to wash out with me going over the bars still holding them. All this at a pretty good clip of speed. Instantly causing all the pain from my week two weeks ago to go apeshiittee. Nice work douche.

Adding insult to injury was what will be forever termed as 'the guy' incident. Unfortunate occurrence that erks the hell outta of me. The pride factor was definitely knocked down a bunch.

Yes bad luck comes in three's. Bookending the weekend.. Missouri Highway Patrol decided 10mph over isn't ok during the holiday weekend. PHUCK ME!

But 'the guy' is good at 'pumping' on Mt Krumpet. Things became a bit unruly on the hill this year. More so than in years past. Not saying I didn't enjoy one bit, not saying I antagonized one bit either, just saying it was....

So the rest of the weekend was in support of the mwi crew which did a mighty fine job of cx driving.

Gotta say that was a real blast with the team racers & sponsors there. Looking forward to all the plans laid out for 2011 for the mwi team. Keep an eye out, could be some interesting things coming down the pipeline sooner or later.

So 2010 has had its ups and down's so with that I leave you with my feelings for my season...

One last thing....Get the kitchen passes ready for this 2011 gig you don't want to miss

Beer of the Week

2010-11-21T15:40:00.002-06:00

Strada Bianca Nirvana Pictorial

2010-11-19T16:22:00.006-06:00

Beers of the Week (Belgian Themed)

2010-11-13T07:32:00.001-06:00

Parallel Universe's

2010-11-12T21:49:00.000-06:00

Playin' Catch Up

2010-11-07T07:00:00.009-06:00

I was waiting on a video to post from last weekend's race but I will have to wait. Technical difficulty in sending me the video. Trust me, it will be a worthy stand alone clip. So this little diddy is about last weekends race then Halloween ride. Both which were outstanding but in opposite pole kinda of way.

First off Boss Cross 3. Fabulous race/course/utilization of the many parks that Kansas City is graced with. Jeremy & Joe didn't disappoint in laying out a course that needed 100% of concentration or otherwise you were off the course, off the bike, or just off the back. It was really nice to come home to race such an awesome course. I might not have done as well as I wanted but I was grinning from ear to ear. Even throwing out some 'words of encouragement' to my fellow racers... The course definitely reminded me of this...

Now to my Halloween ride. Since there wasn't a race going on I decided to get some extra miles in to build back the fitness I lose every two weeks. The ride started off as normal. With only one idea of finding a new route to Benettis. Accessing Raytown is difficult by bike from Less Scummit. That is unless you want to travel highly congested roads, to which I'm not a fan of. So as I proceeded down through the many strip malls I noticed a 'new' access road...

Well to my amazement my 'new' access road was perfect route towards my coffee fix. As I traveled down the road other objects came to my attention...

A paved bridge in the middle of nowhere?

A sweet downhill into an open valley

Yes, that's a beaver damn.

The interesting thing about the valley is that there are several creeks running through it. Was odd to see such a valley like this laying between a mall and a highway. What I didn't realize was that after the valley the trail was gone. Well besides a deer trail which was rideable until the creeks. A little CX practice then some riding then a little more CX practice then absolute hike a bike. To my surprise there was a 6' security fence surrounding the valley. On top of the security fence was barbed wire effectively making it 8'. Oy vey! Did a little scouting around only to find this..

Well someone else has used this route also!

Hung the bike on the barb wire, climbed through the hole and off I go. Only to be stopped by an industrial staple sticking in my tire. Ok, not that route was odd or anything but this is where the whole ride goes towards the...

As I'm fixing my flat under the bridge of the highway, mind you a 6 lane highway, a couple comes jogging down the road towards me. Then suddenly veers to my right towards on of the foundations of the bridge. I honestly thought one of them had to pee, so why not behind the barrier? But NO, they continue up the side of the rock embankment, towards the highway. Suddenly they are out of my sight. Blocked by the bridge base its self. I put my wheel down to shuffle over to see where the hell they went. No clue. No sign of them. They either crossed the bridge or started running on the side of the highway. There is no other streets near here. It was Halloween, sooo maybe aliens got them?

The next little interesting incident during my voyage was...

One of my backroads was almost completely blocked by all these branches someone decided to dispose of right in the middle of the road. The road is just two cars wide so that will give you some idea of the amount of debris deposited. The amazing thing was the height of the mess. It was about 8' tall. Absolutely crazy.

Finally made to Benettis to only find out I missed this guy...

My official Halloween Costume....

I Rule!

Table of Goodness In More Ways Than One!

I really like this costume

Eye Candy

2010-11-06T07:16:00.002-05:00

Race Across The Sky 2010 from Citizen Pictures on Vimeo.

Cross Crusade Race #5 Astoria - Chapter 1 from Burk Webb on Vimeo.

Wednesday Morning, Boulder from jamie kripke on Vimeo.

Specialized at the USGP Louisville - Director's Cut from Jim Fryer/BrakeThrough Media on Vimeo.

Beer of the Week(Pumpkin Special)

2010-10-30T10:29:00.003-05:00

Back At It....Literally

2010-10-27T19:14:00.002-05:00

The rollercoaster of life never seems to stop. Sometimes your on top of the world. Other times your ass is dragging at the bottom of the barrel. For the those aforementioned times there is a certain delicate balance that can be achieved through obsessive time management. A time management of one's social, physical, emotional needs/skills within one's circle.

Wow, I'm off the soapbox.....At least the deep physiological one...Now to soul dumping

WTF have I been up to...well riding the roller coaster for sure. Came into the season feeling on top of the monster roller coaster. Only to flub up my toe which put me into a spiral or maybe that's a repetitive cycle. Hence the roller coaster. During my two weeks of down time I tweaked my back, nothing new I thought. Wearing the clown shoe set me up for injury. Why? Here's why.

Reach down to grab something BOOM! Sharp pain as in someone putting a hatchet into my sacrum on the left side. Take it easy for a couple days, ditch the clown shoe, get on the bike and things seem to be going good.

First race of the season I do a spectacular crash/save in the sandpit. BOOM, back flares up again. Two weeks of easy does it(along w/criticism) things seem to be fine. Next up Wisco the back is in no better shape. Pull myself out of Sundays race due to the inability to pedal with my left leg. Not happy with my weekend.

Then the day before my escape from the man BOOM, end of the day emergency wire body harness switch the back decides to tell me that wasn't the smartest thing to do. For those that don't know, a wire body harness extends from the front of a car to the rear, carrying all essential electrical connections, grounds, and other such important items to make modern cars run. On top of that the job requires that said harness be removed in a very hurried manner. Actually in a matter of 3 minutes before it enters another area for more complicated assembly.

Wake up in the morning to exit to Ohio 3. Go to put bicycle rack into the hitch BOOM. Absolute lock up of lower back. Spasms as I try to straighten up, take a step, hell do anything! Not good for racing. Manage to get back into the house get an ice pack and into bed. Give the mwi traveling circus a heads up to my sad situation. Contemplate my next move. With much regret, sadness, anger I give up. Send a text that I'm not going to make it.

Make it to work on Monday, barely. Give my team a heads up to my situation. One thing I love about my guys/girl is that we do look out for each other when times are needed. I respect them all for that with loads of appreciation. Monday afternoon make to the Chiropractor's office which I hadn't visited in 13 months. Very proud of my strength/core/FUNctionally training I implemented on myself. I do walk the walk, talk the talk for those that need to know. Dr. Josh gives the "Wow, I haven't seen you this bad in years" speech. Thanks! After some painful manipulation, off I go to put heat/ice for the next hour. Go back Wednesday and Friday for the same treatments. Note I wasn't on the bike during this time, nor lifting, yoga. Nada, nothing, roller coaster in full effect. The next week I come in Monday and Wednesday with improvement enough to decide to ride Thursday night.

Pack up to meet the mwi crew at LouVull. Make it to the park to ride the course. Second ride in two weeks. Great course, rode the sand pit 5 times without any worries. Things seem to be going well. When the race starts reality sets in. I'm out of shape. Oh well, I'm going to enjoy myself. I have a blast riding the course. Third ride in two weeks starts a little better. But only for a couple of laps then that damn thing called reality sets in again. During the weekend I had the opportunity to chat with women from Hudz team which was really nice to get some perspective.

Now I'm back to some form of workouts but still taking it easy. The back is still giving me a heads up its not 100%. But with my new found perspective I'm going to be movin on and off the CX bike.

New Bat Time, New Bat Place...

2010-10-15T20:50:00.003-05:00

I'm obviously under the influence to even plan this again.

Beer of the Week

2010-10-15T19:58:00.001-05:00

Beer of the Week

2010-10-07T09:52:00.002-05:00

Boss Cross Kinda of Weekend

2010-10-03T19:49:00.003-05:00

The Boss Cross gang put on another spectacular weekend of CX! They even ordered up perfect weather, what more could you ask for? People? Well they showed in droves. Each field was packed with new, fresh faces. The CX thing must really be catching on after so many years? I'm thinking we are going to see some people with new found skillz for next season. Yea!

Well my race report went up the mwi blog. Since I didn't race today I came out to get my points for spectating. PRObably getting close to my cat 1 license. Think I will be getting some good points the next weekend. Race weekends aren't all play some work is required.

Since I was spectating I thought I would shoot some pics. Bad thing was the camera died with only 2 laps into the race. FAIL! Now the connection between Blogger and my photos is a big fat FAIL! Pics tomorrow....maybe.

So if any of you folks happen to be traveling to do CX race's and happen to see the mwi compound don't feel like you can't come up and say HI! Just tell the fella's your from KC. We welcome all! If you need assistance make sure to check us out. We are fully stocked, with tools and knowledge of sorts.

USGP #1 In the Books

2010-10-01T21:03:00.003-05:00

The CX season really doesn't seem to be 'official' til I rock it up to Wisco. The first stop in the USGP traveling circus make's it stop in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. Service Course to mwi team is Milwaukee, which is just about an hour from Sun Prairie. Each year the mwi crew seems to 'earn' a little more workload. In workload I mean that we have responsibility of housing, transporting, entertaining or generally babysit some PRO's.

Word spread fast that again we would be helping Molly Cameron again. Next on the grapevine was that Tim Van Nuffel was in need of transportation, housing, and general entertaining. Then the bombshell came, Francis Mourey was in need of some assistance. Not just him though, his wife, his mechanic, and enough gear to fill up the rented Suburban that Dr Roadrash picked up.

As soon as I rolled into Crankdaddys shop I was informed that we were to go pick up TVN and father from the airport. No time for coffee, or food off we go the Belgian's are expected in less than a hour. Rocking the Crankdaddys van to pick up TVN & Father we got stuck in endless reconstruction of the highways in Wisco area. Absolutely amazing how much of the state is in perpetual repair. Arrive at the airport JIT for me to grab a sandwich for $8 then watch for a PRO to walk into the airport. TVN is not what either Herman or myself were expecting. To say Euro's can be stereotyped could be so true. Just sayin.

Take TVN back to Crankdaddys to assemble his bikes then drop him & his dad off at Rosco P Fasttrains. Trying to talk to Belgians can be very difficult. But at the same time very entertaining, at least for us. Probably? Yeeessss!

From this point on things become a blur. I know we it made it to the Kennedy Compound with Molly, The Belgians, Chilli, Herman, LeBam, Jess, Roscoe, and Mo. It's so great to go to the Kennedy Compound every year to visit Bernie & Terry. They both are amazing in the fact that they take us in like their own children. Cooking, cleaning the whole nine yards for us. Especially me since I get a dozen or more zucchini chocolate chip muffins for the trip back home. AND YES Terry they made it back this year. I didn't eat one of them!!

Set up our mwi compound. Holy Shiittee we are rolling big time. At some point in time we arrived at the number presentation. Blur. Woke up in the morning finished setting up the mwi compound. Got ready to race. Raced. Went fast in the corners. Went slow in the straight aways that were very long & yes very straight. The mwi boys rocked it making my disappoint disappear. Ate food, drank liquid, got cleaned up and ready for the PRO race. Busy moving from one side of the pit with four bike's and two guys.

PRO race over after an hour of fun. Next up Meet Molly Cameron BBQ. Yes it was a meat and vegan cookout. Adult beverages were handed out so to was pop(soda) along with LaBam cupcakes. Some PRO's got a visit from the bakery. Word was it was a very popular visit. Brake down the compound, drive to the Kennedy's shower, snack, then sleep.

Wake up and back at it. To my surprise Molly jumps in the SS to roll to the venue. She wound up helping us in getting our bikes to the pits. Really was awesome to see her giving us a hand. Stage. Line up. Second row start for me. Didn't help. Midpack fodder. The course was changed from the day before to my disadvantage. The backside technical section turned into a straightaway from hell. Swear it was a 1/4 mile of grass. Suck for me. With that section now changed the only real 'technical' section was the hillside strangler. Hard to describe. Climb up a hill cross the ridge then descend to a 180 with three railroad ties then more running up to top. At some point my back decided that riding sidesaddle was a really bad idea for me. Still feeling the effects of my sandpit digger from Hermann. So with 2 laps left I pulled the plug.

But the weekend wasn't over. More pit work. Tearing down the mwi compound. Loading shittee up sending everyone on their way. All but Molly. She stayed with us for another night. That night we rolled into a vegan diner(sweet place) shot the breeze then called it a night. Off to Portland Molly went, back to Less Scummit for me.

Photos of the weekend:

mwi Race Blog

Patrick is the 'new' recruit. He garnered a WCA point so a nickname was suppose to be chosen: Bacon
Herman can't run as fast as he can ride.
Dr Roadrash made a sweet landing in the gravel while tooling in the pits
Chucker makes me nervous as hell before a race. Boy get your shiittee together
Roscoe P Fasttrain is still fast with a bunk knee
Herman can be a bully
Chili is going to have a restraining order from KFC by Kentucky
LeBam Bakery makes PHUCKING AWESOME CUPCAKES! Team Cannondale approves.

I would like to thank the mwi crew for all the hard work done by each and every member for such a wonderful weekend. I'm very lucky/pleased to have such a good group of friends that put up with me. I really appreciate it.

NOT a Race Report

2010-09-19T17:46:00.004-05:00

For those who might frequent my ramblings from time to time you might remember that at the beginning of the season I was on my merry way to Syllamo's Revenge when I decided I wanted to take a more indirect route. In doing so it lead me through one of Mother Nature's wonders:a tornado

Well this time Mother Nature decided it was time to give me another scare: flash flood.

Ok this might be a little exaggerated but I will tell you this being woke at 1am by absolute pandemonium would change your mind.

So let's start from the beginning. JJ offered up his pop up camper for us to have a compound at the Hermann Under the Lights CX race. He wound up with a very nice location(many commented on it) to the race course. Hooked up, awning out the compound was set up and ready for shop talk/race talk/balanced life and such things we cyclists gossip about.

After that there was a race. A couple of us participated in. Some did good. Others threw themselves at the ground. Others broke stuff. Then others decided the lightening might be a bad thing and called the race after two laps.

That's when it all get's interesting. Mother Nature raises her hand to demonstrate that she still is pissed about the last Big Bertha that JJ & myself sacrificed in the mountains of Colorado. Well to seek revenge she decides to open the heavens on us as we try to watch The Flying Scotsman (which we concluded was German).

But low and behold she threw her best at us. First lightening, then hail, then nonstop rain(as in 5 inches in 3hrs). Well unannounced to us the campground we stayed at (and several others 50-75 or more people) was flood prone. Not just your normal flood prone either, this freakin creek was furious. By the time we crashed 11ish to the time we were woken with a nice screaming, pounding on the door "You guys have to get the hell out of the campground now" alert. From this point on things are quite the blur. I do know I stepped out of the pop up camper (PUC) into over the knee deep rushing, cold as hell creek water.

We (Ira, Cale, JJ, & myself) start to unload ALL valuables out the PUC, JJ turns to me and states "Get your car out first!" Well I didn't notice but the whole lower fascia was submerged. Luckily the beast fired up to rip it to higher ground. Then returning to unload what I could. It was still raining, no rain coat, in shorts standing in cold ass creek water watching as 10 5th wheels tried to get out. Honestly it was very scary to watch all this going on. Everyone escaped narrowly but a couple cars, trailers, tents, and other camp items didn't. We watched as the PUC sat still with the water rising to above the door. By 3:30 JJ & Ira were able to get the PUC out of the campground as we slept up above the flooded area, in our cars.

After we regrouped we shared stories of all the craziness that occurred. Here are some highlights:

ACoe lost three wheels: only later to find them floating in the parking lot.

Ira was caught streaking

ACoe may have discovered a new sleep item: Water tent

I figured it was important to turn of the AC while the PUC was flooding.

Drunk old men in Hermann are only funny to themselves. Seriously almost got an arsebeating

JB lost a wheel: only to find it in the car, directly in front of him.

JJ is insured.

I'm not allowed in any camping item of JJ's every again.

Race Report here, soooonn

Better Than the Craft Finger

2010-09-15T20:10:00.001-05:00

Beer of the Week

2010-09-15T17:53:00.001-05:00

Rollin' With It

2010-09-12T18:22:00.007-05:00

That has been the mentality as of late... why is that? Not certain. Sounds like a good plan, state of mind, outlook to have? Thoughts? Anyone?

One thing is for certain. I'm riding. Riding for fun. Riding for serious fun. Riding myself into some serious shape fun. Now that I have been knocking on the door of Mr. Mile's for sometime the clock changed to adding in specificity. Those especial workouts we all know and do. Nothing special, just the combination in the right dose(I hope).

Since I'm riding I like to photog my journey's. Hoping to spark some interest in those that should glance at MY Point Of View. So let the journey began. Try a new route, look around at your surroundings, you might find something more interesting than your power,HR, speed, altitude, cadence, miles or anything else we use to fill our time while riding.

Beer of the Week(Boulevard Smokestack Series Special)

2010-09-10T16:57:00.003-05:00

CET Morph's Into Devo'lution

2010-09-06T16:15:00.002-05:00

Cultural Enhancement Tour took a new twist today.

Why the last minute switch from one planned ride to another? Not sure, but I think it falls along the lines of sympathy for our fellow man. Or that's at least what the ambASSador was saying.

Why Devo'lution?

Get the meaning now. Yes that was CurbDestroyer's helmet for the ride. Yes he got several comments throughout the day. A couple of times he mentioned that the helmet was getting a little lift under it. Modification's will be made in the future to eliminate said problem.

The winds weren't to bad, yet. Kicking around 10+ mph for the ride to Bennetti's. Well ambASSador, karl's jr, b boy, and myself started from mi casa about 1/2 late. As par for any ride that b boy decides to join us on. The plan originally was to do our 'old' CET route. But things got changed and off to coffee then let CurbDestroyer make the rest of the route. (I mentioned to karl's jr. we were in deep poo for the decision made for reroute)

Rolling out of Less Scummit isn't to bad until crossing Old Noland. That's when the entertainment starts. If you like climbing. Due to the fact that Ricky Road has several kickers at 15+ degree. Not long ones mind you just short sweet and to the point. The very pointed end at that.

After grabbing a joe for all of us but karl's jr.(he was on the I'm not participating in what you assclowns are day today) Of course a picture is worth a thousand words...

The true adventure didn't begin until we crossed the bridge..

Unfortunately after crossing the bridge I don't have evidence of what occurred next. As we took a left turn 4 very large St Bernard's decided we looked like some kind of play thing. As I charged toward down the road I noticed it ended into a gravel circle with no outlet. In the meantime CurbDestroyer was laughing his arse of about chickens. Well his plan was for us to see about 20 chickens that are usually out. Not the case. After a little panic situation of flight or fight, my choice was flight the whole time. We circled the wagons and went right back at them. FUN TIMES!

Down the hill we went then a right turn lead us right back to the street we could have taken and saved some miles and a near death experience. GOOD TIMES. The next turn leads us to Swope Park Zoo.

The next move was still unknown. These things happen when CurbDestroyer has time to think of 'routes'. We roll out of the park to miss all the congestion. Ton's of people were going to the zoo today. Word has it they are rushing the polar bear exhibit. Yikes, haven't seen that many people rushing to the zoo like that in years.

Our next destination is finally wrangled from CD as we grill him to where the hell are we going? Here is CD deep in thought were he want's to drag us...

The Trolly Trail to the Plaza is decided on.

After some complaints about 'wasted' miles on the gravel trail we decide to jump on the road to make up time to our new destination. Midwest Cyclery, closed on Labor Day but open to those who have the power. A quick stop was promised, but the thing not mentioned was that there was some adult beverages stored there.

Oh the peer pressure was just to much to take for all of us except for karl's jr. who was obstinate to our request's for just one beverage. Well one beverage turned into several for all of us. Then well the plans got blurry...

ambASSador getting resuscitated from b boy

CurbDestroyer Plotting Our Next Move...

Lunch time. Well it was lunch, we were hungry, so off to Grinders... Pizza & well what washes down pizza better than beer. Not this time, CD was the only one to kill another brewski. Full of pizza the long decision to call in back-up or suck it up and ride home. Well we suck it up, ride towards mi casa. The headwind was sooo brutal. Beating us down, the heat kicked up, the beer and pizza taking its toll on all of us. Then CD came up with a 'new' plan. I live at the top of the hill, I will take you guys home if you like. Well we liked..

End of story...wondering when the next adventure is? Good times reuniting the band.
Miscellaneous shots of the Devo'lution

September Means One Thing

2010-09-01T19:33:00.000-05:00

CX time.

Beer of the Week

2010-09-01T18:51:00.003-05:00

Pirate Ride & The Man

2010-08-29T17:07:00.006-05:00

Todays ride was a planned pirate of a certain ride.

NO stopping at sag's, no edible goodies, no water refills. Self sufficiency was the order of the day. The plan looked good. The day better for a bike ride. Looking at the route something struck my fancy. At one end of the road's was gravel stretch that looked to stretch on for some miles. The only problem those that I 'suckered' into the pirate ride aren't those who know my type of rides. As we approached said road the first reaction was of disbelief that a route would go on gravel(oh shiittee).

But let me regress to the beginning of the pirate ride. 4:30am wake up call. Might as well get use to it I have a date with the man after my little 'break'. Pancakes & egg, oj, vitamens to complete my required caloric intact for the endeavor that was about to be taken. IF you noticed there was NO COFFEE of any sorts digested. My 'idea' is that the local coffee joint would be opened to accept the flood of caffeine addicted cyclists who require that jolt to start the day. ABSOLUTE FAIL on local coffee joint's part closed. Not good. No caffeine, not happy, very crusty would be the call of the day.

To my amazement(computer sarcasm) not a single person showed at mi casa for the predawn launch. The boss stepped up to be my wingwomen. It was much appreciated & enjoyed. ALMOST made up for my lack of coffee. Gotta say leaving the house predawn was a hoot. Rolling through hood to hood with intermittent light drew a shiitttee eating grin from me. As we arrived at the designated assault area waiting for those to show who were taking on the mission of pillage.

As the launch time arrived a few stragglers showed up. Unexpectedly it was only the man. That's right, in all my time at my job I have never been involved in taking the man out on the sport I love so dearly. Heartfelt moment gotta say. The boss went out for just a little spin then spilt leaving me to defend myself against the man. A couple of the man weren't there so call's were made to see what to do next. Well one call stating 'almost' there. We watched as small groups rolled out. Not the expected wave of riders(racers) I've seen at most charity rides. The last of the man showed up, unprepared. No air in tires, no water bottle. Oh, what have I got myself into?

How many of the man does it take to inflate a tire?

THE Boss man, well being the Boss man.

Rolling along with man towing me!

The man making me work!

Final push towards coffee.

Overall the pirate ride was a great time. The man is actually people too. They all gutted it out without any complaints. Even me giving them hard time didn't seem to bother the man to bad. Good because by the sound of it I've suckered them into some more exploration of the Greater Kansas City area. Yes there will be gravel. Yes there will be urban cultural enhancement tour.

I did get my coffee at the end of the ride. Amazingly I got the double macchiato served in a 12oz paper cup. Why do I say amazingly. The barista(because she was behind the machine ONLY do I call her that) asked how if wanted 'two shots of espresso in a cup with milk filled up to here?" Pointing to the top of the cup. My response "No, just a splash in that 12oz paper cup!" Thanks!

Everyone made there ways to their casa's with me finishing off the with another 10miles. Awesome ride completed.

Now I have a date with the man in the morning. suck. Back to the washing machine of life.

3rd bass - steppin to the am
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Explanation by Photo

2010-08-27T19:25:00.004-05:00

Artisan

2010-08-27T08:21:00.002-05:00

is a person skilled in an applied art; a craftsperson. Now its defined watch, embrace, breath in.

Many people wonder through life either associated with or working with someone who is a true craftsman. Those with the uncanny ability to create an item breathtaking or astounding out of something common to most. How many items do you expertly look at with a keen eye for detail? Do you walk through life with capability to notice detail? Or is life already a painted canvas for you just to move from point A to B with blind eye? Is ingenuity a practice of yours?

If not is grasping on to the coat tails the out? Taking a glimpse into one's self how often do we embrace a craft enough to make it a lifestyle? Who takes the step outside that 'security blanket' to make something we breath in an object of desire for others to want. How does the first step go towards that skill? Could be something genetic? A gift from the true artisan to the layman? Uncanny is the ability of novice to pick up the true aspects of the art of the master.

In your life who has created something that has made you step back, look from top to bottom, inspecting every detail with an eagle eye? Were you so impressed that you wanted to replicate that object? Find the master behind it? Consider what the physical embrace to construct ah inspiring article would be?

mwi Must Have Items

2010-08-26T18:15:00.004-05:00

Hello my wife inc fans who love us,

It's that time again! We will be ordering t-shirts and hoodies! Mike(Herman) has done another amazing job with a design! This year, to simplify things, we are only going to have one color shirt as well as one color hoodie. There is a tshirt design for the men and one for the ladies. The hoodies are unisex and will all have the same design. Clear as mud?

Please let me know what size of each item you would like. I know this is crazy talk but the sooner we get the order in, the sooner we can get the shirts! We would love to have them in time for the start of the season.

The tshirts will be $20 and the hoodies will be $40.

thsirt design- hopefully you can guess which one is for the men and which one is for the ladies......if not, just ask the ladies, they will know! http://www.americanapparel.com/2001.html?cid=198- the color is grass and we will be getting both men's and women's sizes. The logo will be white

Hoodie design. http://www.americanapparel.com/5452w.html?cid=211- color is black with pink thermal lining. the logo will be mwi green.

Thanks and happy shopping!!!!

Also, as a side note, last year, we had a lot of requests from non-team folk for tshirts to purchase. Due to the small size of our team and no budget, we could never really order extra shirts to sell. So if you would like one please make sure to get your order in soon.

Please leave contact info at here.

Jessica Heenan

Merch Supervisor and Title Sponsor

Week of Beer Part II Then What Come's Next

2010-08-25T11:25:00.004-05:00

Break Up Song

2010-08-24T08:48:00.001-05:00

The Community

2010-08-23T19:31:00.002-05:00

Many times in our lives we have found ourselves part of a click.

Often we reside in the those communities of comfort. Surrounding ourselves with people of like thoughts, actions, or common denominators. Breaking out of the mold is often hard for individuals to grasp. Moving freely among clicks often brings discomfort to one's foundation. Easing into different situations is often a daunting task. Many lose sleep with uneasy feeling of how we can take a step in the opposite direction. Do I want to? Do I need to? What benefits will it garner me?

Taking a melting pot mentality is often not accepted. Have we actually come to the point in our lives where we only can reside within our security blanket of community? Community by definition can be split between: 1)A group of people living in the same locality and under the same government 2)Sharing, participation, and fellowship. The comparison of 1 & 2 couldn't be more further apart than actually taking the step to open ourselves to a new world of difference.

Amazing to ponder what if? Exciting? Addicting? Adverse? How often do you map out a plan to step outside your comfort zone? Or is that security blanket so tight that you can't actually inhale the fresh air? The fresh air of a new experience of life. How about two steps? Really walking that blank of life to see what's at the end? Cutting-edge? Regressive? How would you know if you didn't even consider it? 'It' equals forward progression. 'Forward progression' doesn't amount to ass backwards. Ass backwards is only the thoughts that don't allow you movement through your security blanket.

Let it go. Open your eyes. One foot in front of the other. Don't let the door hit you in the ass. BLAH, BLAH, BLAH.

Week Of Beer

2010-08-21T18:23:00.003-05:00

Thank RV for the reminder.

My Service Announcement for Today...

2010-08-19T15:56:00.000-05:00

20 Worst Drinks in America 2010

20. Worst Water

Snapple Agave Melon Antioxidant Water (1 bottle, 20 fl oz)

150 calories

0 g fat

33 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 2 Good Humor Chocolate Éclair Bars

While “Worst Water” may sound like an oxymoron, the devious

minds in the bottled beverage industry have even found a way to

besmirch the sterling reputation of the world’s most essential

compound. Sure, you may get a few extra vitamins, but ultimately,

you’re paying a premium price for gussied-up sugar water. Next

time you buy a bottle of water, check the recipe: You want two parts

hydrogen, one part oxygen, and very little else.

19. Worst Bottled Tea

SoBe Green Tea (1 bottle, 20 fl oz)

240 calories

0 g fat

61 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 4 slices Sara Lee Cherry Pie

Leave it to SoBe to take an otherwise healthy bottle of tea and

inject it with enough sugar to turn it into dessert. The Pepsiowned

company’s flagship line, composed of 11 flavors with

names like “Nirvana” and “Cranberry Grapefruit Elixir,” is

marketed to give consumers the impression that it can cleanse

the body, mind, and spirit. Don’t be fooled. Just like this bottle of

green tea, all of these beverages are made with two primary

ingredients: water and sugar.

18. Worst Energy Drink

Rockstar Energy Drink (1 can, 16 fl oz)

280 calories

0 g fat

62 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 6 Krispy Kreme Original Glazed Doughnuts

None of the energy provided by these full-sugar drinks could ever

justify the caloric load, but Rockstar’s take is especially frightening.

One can provides nearly as much sugar as half a box of Nilla

Wafers. In fact, it has 60 more calories than the same amount of

Red Bull and 80 more than a can of Monster. If you’re going to

guzzle, better choose one of the low-cal options. We like Monster;

it offers all the caffeine and B vitamins with just enough sugar to

cut through the funky extracts.

17. Worst Bottled Coffee

Starbucks Vanilla Frappuccino (1 bottle, 13.7 fl oz)

290 calories

4.5 g fat (2.5 g saturated)

45 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 32 Nilla Wafers

With an unreasonable number of calorie landmines

peppered across Starbucks’ in-store menu, you’d think the

company would want to use its grocery line to restore faith in

its ability to provide caffeine without testing the limits of your

belt buckle. Guess not. This drink has been on our radar for

years, and we still haven’t managed to find a bottled coffee

with more sugar. Consider this—along with Starbucks’

miniature Espresso and Cream Doubleshot—your worst

option for a morning pickup.

16. Worst Soda

Sunkist (1 bottle, 20 fl oz)

320 calories

0 g fat

84 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 6 Breyers Oreo Ice Cream Sandwiches

Wait . . . but aren’t all sodas equally terrible? It’s true they all

earn 100 percent of their calories from sugar, but that doesn’t

mean there aren’t still varying levels of atrocity. Despite the

perception of healthfulness, fruity sodas tend to carry more sugar

than their cola counterparts, and none make that more apparent

than the tooth-achingly sweet Sunkist. But what seals the orange

soda’s fate on our list of worsts is its reliance on the artificial

colors yellow 6 and red 40—two chemicals that may be linked to

behavioral and concentration problems in children.

15. Worst Beer

Sierra Nevada Bigfoot (1 bottle, 12 fl oz)

330 calories

0 g fat

32.1 g carbohydrates

9.6% alcohol

Carbohydrate Equivalent: 12-pack of Michelob Ultra

Most beers carry fewer than 175 calories, but even your average

extra-heady brew rarely eclipses 250. That makes Sierra’s Bigfoot

the undisputed beast of the beer jungle. Granted, the alcohol itself

provides most of the calories, but it’s the extra heft of carbohydrates

that helps stuff nearly 2,000 calories into each six-pack. For

comparison, Budweiser has 10.6 grams of carbs, Blue Moon has 13,

and Guinness Draught has 10. Let’s hope the appearance of this gutinducing

guzzler in your fridge is as rare as encounters with the

fabled beast himself.

14. Worst Kids' Drink

Tropicana Tropical Fruit Fury Twister (1 bottle, 20 fl oz)

340 calories

0 g fat

60 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: Two 7-ounce canisters Reddi-wip

Don’t let Tropicana’s reputation for unadulterated OJ lead you to

believe that the company is capable of doing no wrong. As a

Pepsi subsidiary, it’s inevitable that they’ll occasionally delve

into soda-like territory. The Twister line is just that: a drink with

10 percent juice and 90 percent sugar laced with a glut of

artificial flavors and coloring. You could actually save 200

calories by choosing a can of Pepsi instead.

13. Worst Functional Beverage

Arizona Rx Energy (1 can, 23 fl oz)

345 calories

0 g fat

83 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 6 Cinnamon Roll Pop-Tarts

Obviously Arizona took great pains in making sure this can came

out looking like something you’d find in a pharmacy. But if your

pharmacist ever tries to sell you this much sugar, he should have

his license revoked. And if it’s energy you’re after, this isn’t your

best vehicle. Caffeine is the only compound in the bottle that’s

been proven to provide energy, and the amount found within is

about what you'd get from a weak cup of coffee.

12. Worst Juice Imposter

Arizona Kiwi Strawberry (1 can, 23 fl oz)

345 calories

0 g fat

81 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 7 bowls of Froot Loops

The twisted minds at the Arizona factory outdid themselves with

this nefarious concoction, a can the size of a bazooka loaded

with enough of the sweet stuff to blast your belly with 42 sugar

cubes. The most disturbing part isn’t that it masks itself as some

sort of healthy juice product (after all, hundreds of products are

guilty of the same crime), but that this behemoth serving size

costs just $.99, making its contents some of the cheapest

calories we’ve ever stumbled across.

11. Worst Espresso Drink

Starbucks Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha with Whipped Cream (venti, 20 fl oz)

660 calories

22 g fat (15 g saturated)

95 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 8½ scoops Edy’s Slow Churned Rich

and Creamy Coffee Ice Cream

Hopefully this will dispel any lingering fragments of the

“health halo” that still exists in coffee shops—that misguided

belief that espresso-based beverages can’t do much

damage. In this 20-ounce cup, Starbucks manages to pack

in more calories and saturated fat than two slices of deepdish

sausage and pepperoni pizza from Domino’s. That

makes it the equivalent of dinner and dessert disguised as a

cup of coffee. If you want a treat, look to Starbucks’ supply

of sugar-free syrups; if you want a caffeine buzz, stick to the

regular joe, an Americano, or a cappuccino.

10. Worst Lemonade

Auntie Anne’s Wild Cherry Lemonade Mixer (32 fl oz)

470 calories

0 g fat

110 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 11 bowls of Cookie Crisp cereal

There is no such thing as healthy lemonade, but Auntie’s line of

Lemonade Mixers takes the concept of hyper-sweetened juice and

stretches it to dangerous new levels. See, sugar digests faster

than good-for-you nutrients like protein and fiber, which means it’s

in your blood almost immediately after you swallow it. Drinking the

3 or 4 days’ worth of added sugar found here jacks your blood

sugar and results in strain to your kidneys, the creation of new fat

molecules, and the desire to eat more. Ouch.

9. Worst Hot Chocolate

Starbucks White Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream

(venti, 20 fl oz)

520 calories

16 g fat (11 g saturated)

75 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 9 Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

See that stack of Rice Krispie Treats? It’s just three treats shy of

two full boxes. Unless you were a contestant on Fear Factor—

and there was a sizeable monetary prize on the line—you’d

never even consider noshing down that much sugar at once. But

here’s what’s interesting: While that stack is the sugar

counterpart to this atrocity from Starbucks, it still has 40 percent

less saturated fat. Makes us wonder what’s going on in the hot

chocolate. Stick to beverages with single-flavor profiles instead of

pile-on recipes like this and you’ll fare better every time.

8. Worst Frozen Coffee Drink

Dairy Queen Caramel MooLatte (24 fl oz)

870 calories

24 g fat (19 g saturated, 1 g trans)

112 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 12 Dunkin’ Donuts Bavarian Kreme Doughnuts

Coffee-dessert hybrids are among the worst breed of beverages.

This one delivers 1 gram of fat and 4.6 grams of sugar in every

ounce, making even Starbucks’ over-the-top line of Frappuccinos

look like decent options. Maybe that’s why DQ decided to give it a

name that alludes to the animal it promises to turn you into. If you

can bring yourself to skip DQ and head to a coffee shop instead,

order a large iced latte with a couple shots of flavored syrup and

save some 600 calories. But if you’re stuck where you are, you’re

better off pairing a small treat with a regular cup of joe.

7. Worst Margarita

Traditional Red Lobster Lobsterita (24 fl oz)

890 calories

0 g fat

183 g carbohydrates

Carbohydrate Equivalent: 7 Almond Joy candy bars

Of all the egregious beverages we’ve analyzed, the Lobsterita

surprised us the most. The nation’s biggest fish purveyor is one

of the few big players in the restaurant biz to provide its

customers with a wide selection of truly healthy food options. We

would hope they’d do the same with the beverages, but obviously

not. Drink one of these every Friday night and you’ll put on more

than a pound of flab each month. Downgrade to a regular

margarita on the rocks and pocket the remaining 640 calories.

6. Worst Float

Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream Soda (vanilla ice cream and cola)

(large, 28.6 fl oz)

960 calories

40 g fat (25 g saturated, 1.5 g trans)

136 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 9.7 Fudgsicle fudge bars

Done right, an ice cream float can be a decent route to indulgence.

Go to A&W and you’ll land a medium for fewer than 400 calories.

Order it with diet soda and you’ve dropped below 200 calories. So

why can’t Baskin-Robbins make even a small float with fewer than

470 calories? Because apparently the chain approaches the art of

beverage-crafting as a challenge to squeeze in as much fat and sugar

as possible. Whatever you order, plan on splitting it with a friend.

5. Worst Frozen Fruit Drink

Krispy Kreme Lemon Sherbet Chiller (20 fl oz)

980 calories

40 g fat (36 g saturated)

115 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 16 medium-size chocolate eclairs

Imagine taking a regular can of soda, pouring in 18 extra

teaspoons of sugar, and then swirling in half a cup of heavy

cream. Nutritionally speaking, that’s exactly what this is, which is

how it manages to marry nearly 2 days’ worth of saturated fat

with enough sugar to leave you with a serious sucrose hangover.

Do your heart a favor and avoid any of Krispy Kreme’s “Kremey”

beverages. The basic Chillers aren’t the safest of sippables

either, but they’ll save you up to 880 calories.

4. Worst Frozen Mocha

Così Double Oh! Arctic Mocha (gigante, 23 fl oz)

1,210 calories

19 g fat (10 g saturated)

240 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 41 Oreo Cookies

A frozen mocha will never be a stellar option, but we’ve still never

come across anything that competes with this cookie-coffeemilkshake

hybrid from Così. Essentially it’s a mocha Blizzard

made with Oreo cookies and topped with whipped cream and an

oversize Oreo. The result is a beverage with more calories than

two Big Macs and more sugar than any other drink in America.

3. Worst Drive-Thru Shake

McDonald’s Triple Thick Chocolate Shake (large, 32 fl oz)

1,160 calories

27 g fat (16 g saturated, 2 g trans)

168 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 13 McDonald’s Baked Hot Apple Pies

There are very few milk shakes in America worthy of your

hard-earned calories, but few will punish you as thoroughly as

this Mickey D’s drive-thru disaster. Not only does it have more

than half your day’s caloric and saturated fat allotment and

more sugar than you’d find in Willy Wonka’s candy lab, but

Ronald even finds a way to sneak in a full day of cholesterolspiking

trans fat. The scariest part about this drink is that it’s

most likely America’s most popular milk shake.

2. Worst Smoothie

Smoothie King Peanut Power Plus Grape (large, 40 fl oz)

1,498 calories

44 g fat (8 g saturated)

214 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 20 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups

If Smoothie King wants someone to blame for landing this high on our

worst beverages roundup (and truth be told, its entire menu is riddled

with contenders), the chain should point the smoothie straw at

whichever executive came up with the cup-sizing structure. Sending

someone out the door with a 40-ounce cup should be a criminal offense.

Who really needs a third of a gallon of sweetened peanut butter blended

with grape juice, milk, and bananas? Sugar-and-fat-loaded smoothies

like this should be served from 12-ounce cups, not mini kegs.

1. Worst Beverage in America

Cold Stone PB&C (Gotta Have It size, 24 fl oz)

2,010 calories

131 g fat (68 g saturated)

153 g sugars

Sugar Equivalent: 30 Chewy Chips Ahoy Cookies

In terms of saturated fat, drinking this Cold Stone catastrophe is like

slurping up 68 strips of bacon. Health experts recommend capping

your saturated fat intake at about 20 grams per day, yet this

beverage packs more than three times that into a cup the size of a

Chipotle burrito. But here’s what’s worse: No regular shake at Cold

Stone, no matter what the size, has fewer than 1,000 calories. If

you must drink your ice cream, make it one of the creamery’s

“Sinless” options. Otherwise you’d better plan on buying some

bigger pants on the way home.

I Get Bored

2010-08-19T11:40:00.002-05:00

7 Days. No bike riding. Clown shoe wearing. Meh!

Batteries are getting fully charged. Projects being planned. Details getting ironed out.

deftones - bored from juan miguel on Vimeo.

(Appropriate) Beer of the Week

2010-08-13T19:50:00.001-05:00

Horseshoe & Hand Grenades

2010-08-13T11:20:00.004-05:00

Sometimes your lucky.

Sometimes your not.

Well now looking at 7 days off the bike. Possibly more if next weeks x-rays show a fracture.

No self inflicted pain cave. Good excuse, instead of just saying it was my only Saturday off.

Just when I was feeling the CX bug bigger than ever. Looking forward to pushing the fitness envelop to get ready for the 'big' show'.

Oh, how did it happen. Well trying to bend it like Beckham in the basement w/Maximilian. Trying to wear him out before I left for the STXC. I was in a hurry running around when his ball moved one way & I was committed the other. Well let's say you can't move a weight bench with your big toe. I gave it a shot though. Go big or go...to Urgent Care?

Beer of the Week

2010-08-11T19:42:00.002-05:00

My Private Pain Cave, A Plan Is Hatched

2010-08-09T16:32:00.003-05:00

Well after last Thursdays STXC I've decided to place myself in the pain cave. Plan revealed later.

I was the nail and there were 6 hammers. For some reason my legs decided I had enough fun after the first lap which placed me in recovery mode for the next eternity it felt like. I painfully watched 4 guys pass me then just disappear.

On the last lap I thought I had enough of a gap to just coast in for glory.(since no one knows the 'old guy', last week I was ???? now I'm not on there) But I was completely wrong, on the back section I was caught. Now the pressure was on in my pee brain. I didn't want to get notched down again(already had Lucas lap me w/1 left) So I dialed it up coming up the rise from the road. That guy was right there, breathing down my back tire. A couple of shift's up on the road section then an amazing bike throw at the invisible line garnered me a sprint finish for seventh. Oy vey..

I felt...

Now back to the plan...

My own private (pain cave) stage race (sort of)

Day 1. 6 hour stupidfest. Not referring to the race it's self. Just me doing it.

Day 2. Recovery ride/drink beer

Day 3. Work/Recovery ride/drink beer

Day 4. Work/Dirt TT #1/drink a shake

Day 5. Work/Dirt TT #2/drink a shake

Day 6. Work/STXC/drink a shake

There are more races but they start to interfere with my sleep/work. I like sleep. I'm old. It's good for me and those around me. If not, I'm more crusty than many can handle. I'm still deciding about Saturday, since this is my only one off this month. Otherwise Its. On. Like. Donkey. Kong.

I really think I qualify for even thinking of this idea...

Don't Let Your Kids Grow Up To Drunk Dial 911

2010-08-08T07:51:00.003-05:00

The story.

The story

Beer of the Week

2010-08-04T18:58:00.000-05:00

Powdered Food Items Give You Super Powers

2010-08-01T14:31:00.003-05:00

Here is the evidence...

STXC with a little CX

2010-07-30T18:59:00.002-05:00

Last nights short track x country was a blast. Really. HOT. Really. HUMID. Did I say I had fun.

The trails were dry surprisingly since it was storming everywhere but at Swope. The STXC loop is very true to what a race should be expect for the fact that the promoter added a little CX component to the race. One dismount over a 3 to 3.5ft log that was followed by another log to bunny hop over as soon as you took your two-four steps remount. Some of the laps I accomplished this task smoothly. A couple of them were ok, with one that was utterly terrible.

Felt really good when we started. Watched as Ethan & Duff check out from the rest of us. 'Us' was Richard, myself, and a Boulevard fellow. After a couple of laps I wasn't very comfortable with gear selection so I decided to change gears way to often. A lack of confidence in my ability to push a gear. One gear change costed me a position as the change skipped the chain then I proceeded to slam the shit out of my knee into the handlebar. It hurt then started to bother me which caused me to take a little time to recover costing me. Oh well, lesson learned. Gears figured out. Now we'll see how the progression begins. So far good 'sensations'. I forgot to mention how fun the Swope trails are. Even after racing I decided to ride some more. Really have to give love to C&C for busting arse out there on trail design and execution. Very tough to leave without riding more trail.

Gotta say the trails do warrant a dualie. Very rough to say the least. Running 2.1's with 24psi in both front and rear, but the rig still was kicking up especially on the backside of the course. Looking forward to next week's course will be reverse. Should be better for me I hope.

I'll have some of these on...

Hypocrite Award(Rant Sponsored by New Belgium)

2010-07-28T21:04:00.006-05:00

READER WARNING: The thoughts of crusty are only his thoughts. They do not reflect on any member, shop, or team to which he is affiliated with. Hence if you have a problem with this blog please leave a comment. I will happily return your message. Thank you.

If you make accusations, words of disdain, or general threats, please please DON'T go and then use them as changes to your product. You wanted an opinion from the general consumer then you blast the people that help to build your company. ONLY to then turn around to make a positive spin. Dear Sir that's a Douche in my book.

Would like to thank New Belgium Brewery for a tasty brew that helped with tonights award.

Putting All My Eggs in The Proverbial Basket of Cycling

2010-07-28T19:37:00.002-05:00

–adjective

of, pertaining to, or characteristic of a proverb: proverbialbrevity.

expressed in a proverb or proverbs: proverbial wisdom.

of the nature of or resembling a proverb: proverbial sayings.

having been made the subject of a proverb: the proverbialbarn door which is closed too late.

having become an object of common mention or reference:your proverbial inability to get anywhere on time.

That's how I'm starting to 'feel' now. You know the 'feeling' of racing, right. Putting yourself in battle against other gentlemen with the same ambition of completing a task to which much time and energy has been devoted.

At this time I have completely switched all mental aspects to which I aspired to at the beginning of the season. A multitude of races were laid out on the calendar of racing. Then suddenly as the race day approached a sudden 'feeling' of unpreparedness to accomplish a well placing or actual completion of the event grasped my body, mind, well being. I could also blame much of it on Mother Nature with her unrelenting necessity to dump an assload of rain to make sure events were cancelled or questionable for the time to invest in driving.

So a full month earlier than ever before I'm starting to 'feel' how the CX bike feels. The starts, dismount at speed, mounting at speed, riding moto. Figuring out which foot to dismount with as not to lose momentum.(yes the last two are questionable to many. I have my reason's-read into that Old Skool)

Just as last year I'm putting a schedule that is pretty sweet. I'm just hoping not to get sick like last year. I did enjoy being a superfan(some didn't enjoy or get it) BUT I would have rather been slogging it instead of yelling, cowbelling it, and generally being loud! When I did get the chance to get into I was waaaayyy off the back with a giant grin.

I'm looking to some upcoming events to hone my fitness, pain threshold for the CX season. Not going to throw those out, because sure as shit Mother Nature will pee pee on them. I'm seriously not considering even thinking about them. Due to the fact if I have a thought of them BOOM rain, wind, hail, tornado's, hell fire arises to stricken them cancelled.

So if all goes well then I feel this song will be appropriate:

Ring the bell, blow the whistle bitches because I got a feeling its on!

Beer of the Week

2010-07-27T19:48:00.002-05:00

Beer of the Week

2010-07-22T16:40:00.002-05:00

Wow. ADHD Post

2010-07-18T18:41:00.004-05:00

Why the video? I don't know how about this?

Who would've thought that Astana would be able to pull Contador through the Tour? Then you have this guy. If you don't succeed try again..

I wonder how many 'Lance' fans think this tour is boring now that he has kissed pavement more times than you can shake a stick.

At least Steve Jobs is seeing the light...

Heat exhaustion sucks. Two days of training failed on the second day. Friday went well, Saturday ended about 12 miles from the house. It hurt. It hurt bad. What should have been about 3.5 hrs turned out to be more than a little over 5hrs. K-Lew came to get me bringing the best recovery drink made, Shatto Chocolate milk. Thanks K-Lew.

Today still feel the effects. Need a nap after doing my honey do's outside. Well, see how I recover for tomorrows ride.

Beer of the Week

2010-07-07T19:17:00.000-05:00

Dipped in the Toe

2010-07-04T14:00:00.002-05:00

A whole week ago. Man that seems forever ago and a day.

Well not much to report on as far as my 'race' weekend. Break Through T of KC was as usual a mess for me. The week leading up felt really good especially Tuesday. But come Thursday I was a little stale.

'Race' day was Friday night at Longview College. 4's started at 5:45 and the temp was still a blazing. The course doesn't suit me all that well but I love the fact it's so close to the casa. The crit was a 40min +3 at least for some of those guys and girl. The first couple of laps I was right up there then all of the sudden the body decided not to regulate the temp. 21 minutes I got lapped. Plus the last three laps I was racing with Amber. Very sobering.

BTW, Amber you need to let off the brakes going into corners. Carry your momentum through will help you save energy. Follow wheels or keep an keen eye to the line, set up of the rider approaching the corner, gears and such. That will help.

Saturday was a scheduled work day. I tried to get off early enough to allow time for a warmup of some sort but to no avail. I got to the race 15 minutes before the start. Not good. With that I just decided to watch JJ hang with the group and suffer. Suffer he did. But he was racing and hanging in the group.

Sunday NO motivation to race. But I found some pictures to make a movie. Thanks Lyle Reynolds.

Now I have resided myself to trying to put more time in the saddle dedicated to efforts. Would have loved to race the weekend in Lawrence but had to get the neighbor situation, well situated. Will be interesting to see what they come up with next.

Been feeling this for a few days. Especially after todays run in with the law this morning. Karma is a motherf*&$er to which I suspect that officer will be paid back.

Todays dirt session was perfect. Wondering what tomorrow's group ride is going to be like?

Beer of the Week

2010-07-01T19:32:00.002-05:00

Getting Into the Motion

2010-06-23T18:43:00.002-05:00

Finally pulled the trigger on a race weekend. Of course my most favorite race weekend to hate. Never feel that I'm ready for it. Love to race it. Loath to race it. Such a mix bag of emotions wrapped up in one package. The package of two wheels going up more than it seems going down. Never my best strength. Really my best weakness. Although I made an attempt to try to get on top of it. (yes pun intended)

Truth be known, if I would have received the text one day earlier I would be sitting in a suite Friday night rocking out to Tool. I'm a sad, pathetic bike geek. Missing out on one badass rock concert to race for the weekend. Weak sauce. Very weak sauce.

I know I'm going hate myself for missing this concert to race. I know it.

I guess I will look at this blog, then remind myself what weak sauce I've become.

Sad, pathetic, loser of a bike geek. IM NOT LIKING MY DECISION ALREADY!

Bad thing is that I wanted to use this weekend as measuring tool to build upon for the following race I planned on hitting. The only thing stopping that is the fact that our fence needs to be worked on now. Unfortunately the schedule of the man isn't very open for me. One full weekend a month til CX season. That puts the bullet square on 4th July weekend. I hate my _______!

Really have the feeling of plenty of base. Just no top end. What's sad is you need ALL top end this weekend. At least I know I have an awesome beer in the fridge to rinse the pain, bitterness, and loathing. Rinse & repeat. Rinse & repeat.

Beer of the Week

2010-06-21T15:29:00.003-05:00

my wife inc Application/Questionnaire for Marriage

2010-06-20T19:21:00.003-05:00

Cycling Videos on CyclingDirt

Not quite sure what sparked this conversation/e-mail but it's a hot topic on our team mail.

A application for marriage is the idea floating so I have permission for implementing a perfect marriage agreement:

First the questionnaire:

mwi marriage questionnaire part I

points

1 Are you equipped for a marriage? 0-5

2 Have you ever been married? 0-10

3 Have you ever previously rated your

abilities for marriage? 0-3

4 Have you taken any courses/special training

or educational seminars that will help you in marriage? 0-5

5. Have you read any books about marriage? 0-3

6. Have you talked with friends who are married? 0-3

7. Has anyone in your family been married? Have you

spoken with them about marriage? 0-7

Average score on these seven questions, on a sampling of several hundred potential brides, was 26 out of 36.

Part II

1 Is your idea of marriage original? Does it have

significant merit or is it a new package for an old idea? 0-7

2 Is it your marriage? Will be able to generate

extensions of this marriage 0-3

3 How difficult would it be for someone else to have

this marriage? 0-5

4. Have you checked to see if someone else to have the

same marriage? 0-10

5. Have you checked to see if other couples exist who

produce the same marriage? 0-4

6. Have you checked the Wedding Register to see if

marriage is offered? 0-5

7. Have you discussed or disclosed your marriage to an

expert in the area in which you offer your marriage? 0-3

8. Have you talked with investigators about

your marriage? 0-3

9. Have you analyzed the recent porn trends

in marriage? 0-5

10. Is there a single large successful suitor? 0-10

12. Have you attempted to obtain sales, commitments

or letters of intent from potential suitors? 0-15

The average score on these 12 questions, on a sampling of several hundred potential marriages, was 60 out of a possible 70.

Part III

1. Have you saved enough money to start a marriage? 0-15

2. Do you know how much money you'll need to

start a marriage? 0-10

3. How much of your money can you put toward the

marriage versus how much money is needed? Do you

need a partner to supply money? 0-15

4. Do you know what the sex volume is necessary to

break even? 0-7

5. Will it take less than three years before your

marriage reaches the break even sex volume? 0-10

6. Do you know the terms of payment in

your marriage 0-5

7. What are the normal terms for sex in

your marriage? 0-3

8. Are you aware of money sources that will help

finance your marriage in the event you exhaust

your partner? 0-4

9. Have you talked to a bartender about your plans

for a new marriage? 0-3

10. Have you talked to your lawyer about your plans

for a new marriage? 0-3

11. Have you talked with your pimp about your plans

for a new marriage? 0-3

12. Have you found a good home for your marriage? 0-10

13. Does the location provide for S&M possibilities? 0-5

14. Will the new location require extensive improvements

for S&M cave? 0-5

15. Have you examined the trade off of buying sex

instead marriage? 0-5

16. Is the location convenient for for parking, buses,

and for people to get to work afterwards? 0-5

17. Have you checked the zone/pay off requirements? 0-3

18. Did you evaluate several locations? 0-3

19. have you made a scaled layout of your S&M cave

to study sex flow or customer viewing? 0-7

20. Are you a good manager of cash money? 0-15

The average score on the above questions is 111 out of 136.

If you averaged all the scores together and your in the ballpark you will be considered for potential review in person among a group of your peers. Video camera's will be provided along with still shoots for the entire interview/couch session.

Thank you for participating and looking for to seeing you in person,

crusty

Love Thy Neighbor Til...

2010-06-20T06:47:00.003-05:00

the dumbass does this..

causing this....

then *&%$ thy neighbor

New Reality Show Promo...

2010-06-04T19:15:00.001-05:00

So You Think You Can Be A Stunt Person?

Beer of the Week

2010-06-03T19:27:00.003-05:00

Mechanical Doping? Seriously?

2010-06-01T16:25:00.000-05:00

Weekend in Pics

2010-05-31T19:10:00.004-05:00

Start The Weekend Right...

2010-05-28T16:26:00.001-05:00

The Making of CYCLEPASSION 2011 - DVD Teaser from CYCLEFILM on Vimeo.

RIP Paul Gray

2010-05-25T20:37:00.003-05:00

Slipknot - Spit It Out. - kewego
Slipknot - Spit It Out

Keywords: slipknot spit it out

Video from cerealspiller

Well, That's How Last Week Was In Cycling

2010-05-23T16:35:00.004-05:00

At least there is some other performance art going on. It's exciting, but am taking it for face value as others have mentioned.

Can someone explain to me why Freecaster.tv is called that? WTF?

All most forgot to tell you about the NEW RIDE that is taking the place of Fathers Day Urban ASSault. Welcome the beginning of the BCR tours.

FDUASS Is Going To Be Like This...

2010-05-12T19:37:00.003-05:00

Well...I'm mean it could be like this...

Well not...Just like this....

Well not really at all like this...

But I mean you really never know? Right?

Also just substitute June 2o, 2010 every time you hear April 26, 1992.

Bicycles will be involved in some manner. That is for sure.

AntiVert

2010-05-10T12:10:00.004-05:00

Take one before reading.

I hear about motion sickness alot. Most times it involves flying or driving. But I'm hear to tell you something. I found a place in the KC Metro Area that you can get it with two wheels.

I'm not deserving of critiquing since I'm not involved in the scene anymore. BUT... I was intrigued with the numbering system of the park. 16 trails should amount to a REALLY BIG LOOP of trails. Yikes, make that all 16 trails in roughly 4.5 -4.8 miles. Confusing to have so many numbers for so little amount of mileage. Don't get me wrong I'm not bagging on these trails, they are really fun, just stinkin short for 16 marked trails.

You will need two things ready for riding these 16 trails: Braking fingers & Climbing legs.

Braking fingers because after a roller coaster of right, left, right, left, right, left, 180, 90, 180, 90, 120,60 really about any radius of turn you can throw in your doing it, most of the time going down into the valley....then
Climbing legs due to the fact once you reach the valley floor your climbing your arse off right back up doing the roller coaster right, left, right, left. Inside that 4.8 loop we climbed roughly 450ft. Pretty good ratio of distance/altitude gained. VAM was great!

Gotta have some photog's right?...

The trails are 90% like this..smooth non-technical

Climbing..climbing, turning...turning you get the pic?

More of the same, gives an example of turns & climbing

Most technical aspect of the whole trail.

Forgot there are some BC bridges there.

So IF you go fast this is how you could end up. Alot of messed up wings lately!

Sounds like a FDUASS is in the plans. I'm waiting on pins & needles for this! Keep your calendars open. Who know's what's planned. It will be a hallmark holiday to remember, I bet!

I'm thinkin we might need to do this soon....

North By NorthWest, Son

2010-05-08T08:12:00.006-05:00

So if no one noticed yesterday there was a bit wind.

A little bit chilly to start the day. Which meant a jacket day.

Hoping the pink's don't clash! What'ya think Dunnsberry?

Along with that it was my I Don't Give A F*&$ Friday ride. Yep, felt like my bro from Bodunklivar skipping out to ride at lunch. The only difference was that I didn't have to return back to work.

I decided since the wind was coming from the WNW that I would roll over to Bennetti's to grap a mid-ride snack & one of them there mac-a-chitto(had to be there!). Quite the discussion was brought about the wearing of pink among the barista's and myself. Interesting perspective from the non-cycling community. It was mentioned that one's husband owned more pink than she did. From that conversation we rolled into this...

I wound up signing that damn song the whole way home...Thanks! Seriously listen to the song and see if you don't actually sing/hum/whistle that tune for awhile. Meh!

Oh yea back to the ride. Since I don't like taking the same 'ol, same 'ol I decided to try out something new on the way home. Part of this decision was wind related let the truth be known. Then again I knew I had a little time to kill. The desire to put in some extra miles didn't hurt either.

So the adventure began..

Great coffee brought sun & hills. Its steeper than a 'flat screen' can show.

Throw in some break neck curves...

Some sweet scenery...

Am I still in Misery or AreKansas?

Yes, that is a beaver. A big one at that.

After entering suburbia I decided to take another route to avoid the wind. A decision that I would pay for in spades. Less wind more hills, stinkin thinkin! In between the hills one more decision that I would enjoy....

Gravel trail on a 10 speed

I was passed on a downhill with a "On your right"

I decided I would 'draft' for a bit

He was truly trying to drop me!

After that shot I gave him 'On your left' to which his response was, "Is that a ten speed or a cross bike?" I just didn't have enough gumption to take a shot of him behind me. The funny thing about that story is how it actually began. That gentlemen was at the trailhead on the phone when I passed him asking if he was ok or needed anything. Then about halfway through he came by a mach one on the downhill giving me the look. So of course I just 'had' to upshift. All I could think of after that was this...

One last set of hills was my final undoing here is the last one..

New pavement didn't make it any better

The last pitch I was almost tacking the climb.

Momma Needs Some New Shoes(Help a Brother Out)

2010-05-07T10:02:00.003-05:00

FOR SALE:

$550
49cm. 105, Ultegra mix. FSA Carbon Post & Bars. Easton EC 90 Fork

$300

57cm Orbea CX frame.

Beer of the Week

2010-05-07T08:03:00.002-05:00

2:14 Of Pure Bliss

2010-05-06T16:22:00.000-05:00

25 Tips On How To Plan A Shitty Race Trip

2010-05-03T18:11:00.007-05:00

Plan on going to the wrong town.
Read the e-mail from promoter telling you the weather was forecasted worse last year.
Actually believing #2.
Driving into rain for 4 hours.
Pay attention to where the storm chasers go.
Don't pull over when everyone else is.
See how far you can drive with wipers at full speed, unable to see anything.
Making great time to wrong city.
Decide to make up time through a 'short cut'
Drive back into storm.
Don't stop because Sheriff tells you too.
Disobey order to get out of vehicle from #11.
Take a pass on going in the McDonald's restroom with 50 AreKansasians to die.
Watch the tornado pass less than a 1/4 mile from you.
Then realize you have to follow the path of destruction.
Drive after a tornado hits 'mountain' roads.
Figuring out it took an hour to drive 27 miles through #12 after #1o.
Have reservations at Mold n Rust Inn.
Listen to the death toll from the 'city' right through that there crest.
Try to sleep after the weatherman states more severe storms can hit area.
Waking up after several Sheriff/Police turn on sirens through town.
Throw your phone after alarm goes off.
Don't race after all the shitty things that happened to you.
Get your rack pumped by town crazy as self serve attendant(in training) pumps your gas.
Answering all the questions to why YOU didn't race.

The beginning of the fun

Amazingly this isn't a motion shot. That's how hard the wind was blowing.

Can't see anything I might as well take a photo for postmortem

Yes it did become calm before the true shit hit the fan.

STFU Pt. 2

2010-04-30T06:33:00.001-05:00

STFU

2010-04-28T20:45:00.002-05:00

Every now & then you just have to say....

Now inhale & grin.

Quote of The Day crustyTV Style

2010-04-27T16:32:00.003-05:00

Melancholy Monday

2010-04-26T16:47:00.005-05:00

Now I know why Seattle has the highest per capita of coffee drinkers/shops/cafe's in the nation, along with a very high rate of suicide. Possibly the lack of Vitamin D could be the source. Or that coffee is additive.

Either way cloudy, windy, stormy skies can be a real downer, or in my case cause a real lack of motivation lately. I totally blew off hangin out with the skinny kids on sunday. Alarm went off, I rolled over, turned it off and proceeded to snooze for a little longer. Very SAD!

But I did watch WC MTB at the same time as L-B-L. I tried to listen to L-B-L in Latvian but damn I just couldn't get the rhythm of the language. Not quite as interesting to listen to as Flemish. So luckily the WC was in England and the commentators were bloody entertaining.

Throughly pleased to see a course that was so demanding for once. Every lap there was a dismount for all but Burry Stander on his 29r which made it twice out of six times. Thought it was interesting to finally see a 29r get a podium spot. Maybe the Euro's will except 'our' technology. If that's the case I might as well except it also. Which will please a couple fella's out there. Right Half-Lap and RV? I do know that it's in the works for something sinister!

Did anyone catch Nino's sweet jump on the double on the bmx course? Not only was the jump sweet, but it closed a gap that Julien had. Wow finally a Euro showing off a little. Not as uptight or stuffy as originally thought . That move just elevated Nino into my book of favorite's. Sam Shultz showed some skillz on wagon wheels. Tomac would be proud of both youngins'

I'm still waiting for Thursday...

crustyTV

Strict Machine

2010-04-23T19:58:00.002-05:00

That's the plan.

Strict Machine from this point on. More focus Danielson. Behind the eight ball, just a little bit. Need to sharpen the axe.

Can it be done? I hope.

The empire grows....

Talking about empire...the DS is starting to plant the seed for my step up from a kids bike. RV will be proud.

A crusty P.O.V

Suffering Phucking Writers Block

Ze Fest(bikes, beer, & tubas)

Spring Is Coming Early

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Those Who Cannot Remember the Past Are Condemned To Repeat It

History of O

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Bagged & Tagged The Rapha 500

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2011 Starts

One Rocking Show

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Parallel Universe's

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Back At It....Literally

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Boss Cross Kinda of Weekend

USGP #1 In the Books

NOT a Race Report

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Explanation by Photo

Artisan

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Week of Beer Part II Then What Come's Next

Break Up Song

The Community

Week Of Beer

My Service Announcement for Today...

I Get Bored

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Horseshoe & Hand Grenades

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pro·ver·bi·al

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Wow. ADHD Post

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my wife inc Application/Questionnaire for Marriage

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New Reality Show Promo...

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