Wednesday, September 30, 2009

TiNy MaN, BuT I CaRRy a BiG StiCk

Reflection and introspection are things everyone should do from time to time.

Currently I am reading a book called "The Law of Attraction" and I am 100% IN with what the book says.

When we did the 4 riders of the Apokarip ride back in January as I pedaled across the forest I said to myself that this would make an excellent race.

I sat there and looked and looked at ways to get to Croom, then Rob put something together and tested it out and the CFiTT was born. A race to connect two forest that I believe at some point in the history of Florida, were once one forest.

An opportunity for Florida to rise up and enjoy the joys of Bikepacking. A chance for others to explore the possibilities of long dirty rides vs. the typical road rides they usually do.

And it all started with a dream, a thought, an Idea.

Now look whats going on. We got Tracking sites up, SPOT and Matt Lee and Scott Morris helping out in various ways. People I never met taking advantage of an opportunity to become a part of Singletrack Samurai's experiences.

What's on the Horizon? Well I have PLENTY of more UNIQUE RACE IDEAS. Everything from XC races, to stage races to Cross races to adventure races, etc. I want to build this thing that I call Singletrack Samurai productions into a race company that gives racers a chance to do something not just challenging, but FUN. Eventually, I want to build this into Singletrack Samurai outfitters and make a Unique bike shop as unique as our events, that offer more then what your used too. Not just races, but tours and many other things.

BUT, whats on next. Well Back by popular demand, mark your calendar, the Naked Indian ride 2010 Will be held Saturday January 2nd (start sending your emails now). And then Sometime in Spring we will do the Singletrack Samurai adventure race in spring. Close to that time as well I will release the Monster route close to 300 mostly off road miles, called the Eye of the Huracan.

Eventually, for this to happen, I may have to have some of these events become legitimate, and have entry fee's and insurance and all that stuff. BUT, the NK ride will still remain as it is, and the Eye of the Huracan and the CFiTT will do the same.

I want the Local MTB community to have options in what they want to experience on a bike. XC racing is well established and lord knows that I raced that scene for many many years. I do not want to ever take anything away from that. I only want the chance to offer something different.

And it all started with a thought. So ya, I am taking an opportunity to pat myself on the back, if I dont do it, who will?

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Monday, September 28, 2009

CFiTT 911

We need the following info from all racers emailed to me at nakedindian at singletrack samurai.com.

email address.
your phone number.
Emergency contact name and number.

I need this information ASAP, it is for the programming of the SPOT units that will be used in the race to track your progress thru the course.

thanks,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Sunday, September 27, 2009

ImProMpToo The NuMBeRs AnD GpS

Here is the Link to look at the stats, not bad, not bad at all...



uoooo. PurrTy...

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

ImProPmtOo sUcceSS

Well I made it home. Stopped at Mc Dees fanagled myself a free Latte then strolled over to Waffle House played some songs on the Juke box and ate two sandwiches. Drank My latte chatted with the bird and finished off the ride. I had a real good time and I learned alot, definetely a good shakedown ride for the CfItt and I am feeling very confident that once i make the final tweaks I will be able to finish the ride close or if not exactly on my goal time. I saw more wildlife tonight then I ever have on a ride.
1 fox
1 possum
1 raccoon
1 turkey
1 snake
1 turtle
36 deer
500 frogs

If you were wondering the florida frog population is safe. Great terrain and I feel good. Not a single saddle sore not a single sore muscle. I feel good, I feel like after a couple of more fixie tempo rides I will be as ready as l will ever be. I think Imma go coastie hunting on CfItt day.

Laters,

The NaKeD Indian

ImPormpToO Update 4?

Well the forest roads across Seminole Forest were pristine and all the wild life made for a fun traverse. Im in Sanford now rounding the bend and heading towards Deltona. I tried sleeping but the mosquitos are awful and apparently the all natural bug spray I got aint worth shit! So I stopped at the 7 eleven and grabbed some Ice water. Im feeling hungry so Imma eat this Last bar and then grab some food and coffee at the Mc Donalds when I cross into there. Once I roll it should be only bout thirty minute ride or so After I eat Imma grab the other side of the indian trail and head home. I probably got 14 miles or so left. Looks like at a non chalant pace I will complete 75 miles in a 12 hour time period. I rolled out at 140 pm. Interesting the damage You can do on a fixed gear bike. Cant wait to get home dry out and shower up. Probably will grab a pizza to take home and eat, Im hungry.
Been Making alot of notes for the final tuning before the CfITt.

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiAn

Saturday, September 26, 2009

ImProMptOo updaTe 3

Wow. What started as a beautiful lightning display turned into a ridiculous downpour. One good thing about the recession is lots of abandoned for sale homes. currently taking shelter in the back porch till this thing passes. I could push on but whats the point, this is a fun ride after all and I got all night.

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

ImProMpTOo Update 2

Well good news, hunting season started today. Must of come across no less than 20 trucks along the wagon trail. I always feel so sneaky when I see the trucks, made me work hard to get out of there, Im not worried about Hunters But Im Not comfortable with people driving up behind me on narrow forest roads. Currently , Im posted up at the Paisley Discount Beverage, didnt stop at the swimming hole seemed a little crowded. From here Im heading down Maggie Jones then taking forest roads across seminole forest, Once I get to Lake Mary I will decide If I will keep on the trail or If I will head home. Beautiful Night so far. The people in Paisley are so nice Im here just chatting it up refueling and strapping on the lights. Gonna roll here shortly.

Laters,
The NaKeD InDiaN

ImProMptOo UpdAtE

Got off to a way late start. Wanted to be rested as I started my Impromptoo tour to nowhere with a final destination of home. The only definete plans I have is where I will grab water and food. Everything else is open to the whims of my desires. I sorta have a route laid out, but im not married to it, so It will remain very freestyle.

For example, today I made right for the NK trail to take me out to cassadaga. I could of taken the road,but im not much in mood for cars and traffic even thought as we become more civilized the urban landscapes slowly assimilate the wilderness. Thus I am drawn to being out in remoteness even if it means sandy hellish trails and me pushing. At least I will be pushing in the forest. My current destination is St Francis. There I plan to pick up the St Francis to Paisley wagon trail that WP and I mapped back in Spring. Right now Im having lunch in a lil cafe in spirit town, later Im thinkin siwimming hole and a sandwich.

Laters,
The NakEd InDiAn

Friday, September 25, 2009

ImProMpToo

Well, the Autumnal equinox came and went and I did nothing special for it.

SO. Circumstances kept me Local.

Circumstances also will leave me Childless for a couple of days.

Circumstances also indicate the race clock is ticking.

SO.... Im loading up the war machine and heading out for a LONG one.

Good chance to test everything, the set up, the bike, my new plans for my body, LOL.

I got a pretty sick route plan, and this time I am not gonna worry about the miles... Instead, Im going to focus on the sights and sounds and people along the way.

Not going to worry about goals and aspirations, but instead, get there when I get there, finish when I finish, and eat, and drink and be merry.

Really celebrate what the fall season is all about. Its about harvest, about preparing for the winter to come, and about celebrating the fruits of your labor.

So, Celebration ride is in order.

Roll tomorrow EARLY... LOL...

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Thursday, September 24, 2009

SoMeThInG BoRRoWeD

So,
Went home yesterday. Slipped on my mechanix gloves and got to work. I pulled out my tommicog, pulled off my XTR/Stan's Wheelset and Fixed them for the War Machine.

Pulled off my Front Elixir Brake, and installed it on the War Machine.

Im thinking a different seat? Install the Aero Bars?? Wrap the Bars?

Friday, tomorrow, shakedown ride. I want to go on a road trip, but if its not in the budget, then Saturday, another shakedown ride, we will see.

I have been messaging and communicating with Ultra Endurance Champions who have experience in multi day bikepacking self supported events. Communicated with Tour Divide Single Speed Record Holder Chris Plesko. Messaged With Deanna Adams, who Rode nearly 2800 miles on a Fixed Gear bike. All asking for advice and strategies as I come every day, minute by minute, closer to the adventure of a lifetime.

I feel serene and calm about the effort. If some of the most recent advice that I have received works, I have no concerns about my only concern while I am on the bike. So, we will see what happens, Im pumped up.

Let's Get Ready to Get Ready to RUMBLE....

I got my packing list made up, got to test the load, then trim it if needed, going as light as I can folks. Are you thinking about this? Go look at the tracking site, its got an active countdow in effect.

What I wanna know, is who am I going to beat on my Fixie, LOL, meaning which coasties will finish behind me...

O as well, there will be a big surprise announcement at the 5am Riders meeting, I know everyone will LOVE me after that happens.

Ok, enough for today,

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

It's UP

The Link for people to view from home and track the racers is up.

Wow, what can I say, Im excited!!!

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

"MoNiEs FoR BooBiEs"

Its funny.

I speak about my life philosophies and some people, well, they may tease them.

But, being a man who walks a path of a warrior, I think in life, you sometimes have to go into battle.

And if you have no Battles, then you go out and create a battle.

Warriors in the old days would sometimes perform Feats.

A feat is a self imposed challenge that seems almost impossible to on lookers. A good feat should push you to the limit of your very being forcing a point of introspection and a point of reflection where you begin to challenge your own mind and push yourself beyond. A feat is something that when you finish, you are washed over with a feeling of great accomplishment and others look at it and say, "damn, your a monster".

Let me start by saying that anyone who completes the CFiTT will be performing a feat. Although the mileage is small compared to other self supported races, the challenge is big. So warriors, your feats await.

BUT, in life, sometimes you are presented by obstacles. I always like to say, the Creator would never put anything upon us that we cant handle. Recently, someone I care for has been directly affected by Breast Cancer. Seems fitting that Breast Cancer awareness month is October. Seems fitting as well, that October is also the month I celebrate my existence in this known universe, what you normal people call, my birthday.

I could have lined up on my Black Beauty geared machine. And that is what I intended to do. BUT, then I saw an opportunity for a bigger feat. Considering the longest ride I have done on my fixie was 100 miles and that was over two days. To do 170 miles in less than 24 hours would be a spectacular feat.

Coupled with the recent afflictions that some of the people I care about have been affected by, I figured this was a wonderful opportunity to not only perform an amazing warriors feat. But possibly establish a long time Fixie Record for the CFiTT, AND at the same time, raise money and make a sizeable donation to Pink Ribbon dot org.

SO I ask for your donations, I ask for your support. I ask you to click that Donate button and throw me a dollar if that is all you want. Throw more if you feel inclined, Challenge me to challenge myself. I want to raise Ten dollars for every non coasting miles I ride. I want to help contribute the best way you can contribute in this society by giving money. Every little bit helps, spread the word, tell your friends. Look at the cycling community as a whole, Look at the cycling community for the entire world, There are not many ultra endurance Fixie riders, in fact, I only know of one that has been extremely successful in a multi day event on a fixed gear bicycle.

I am committed to ride my Fixie, and I will not stop and will not quit till I get to Tucker Hill.

And I will broadcast on this blog every step of the way what happens to me on my biggest adventure to date.

Donate and help.

thanks,

Laters,

The NaKeD InDian

Monday, September 21, 2009

NaKeD On NaKeD: TheOffICiaL CaTcH 22 RePoRt



This year was no different as 44 riders lined up for the Catch 22, which is officially considered a RACE folks.

Today, we have the Honor of Talking to Naked Indian himself about this years ride.

NK: So, do tell how was the ride this year?

NK: BRutal. Totally brutal, I really got the crap kicked out of me good.

NK: Well dont keep us waiting, everyone wants to know, did you indeed add another Fixie Notch to your Top Tube?

NK: I did, I completed almost
57 miles with 6 hours and 58 minutes on the bike.

NK: Not bad... Are you the first official fixie finisher?

NK: As far as I know I am. I dont know anyone else who has done this ride fixie, so I can neither confirm nor deny.

NK: So tell us, how did it go, How did the Fixed gear treat you, what ratio where you running?

NK: Well, I think it was right around mile 5.5 that I knew I was gonna be screwed. I totally knew by that point that I had totally underestimated the effort. I had only put together the bike less than a week before hand. I was running 32 x 17 on the War Machine, Aka the excuse bike as my friends call it.

NK: interesting. Why did you think you were screwed?

NK: Well cause, I had not ridden a fixie since before the summer and after about 5 times my leg jacked into my hip I quickly remembered that this was indeed a non coasting bicycle. Plus that Beer had me burping something awful...

NK: Beer?

NK: Ya, every catch 22 starts with a run and a beer chug, this year was no different, except, I didnt have any lofty ambitions of winning or finishing fast, I knew that it was going to be a gigantic effort for me that day but that didnt stop me from going into race mode.

NK: Race mode?

NK: Ya, I hit the road, and I went into race mode, could see the groups off the front, and I started chasing, and working, and I did good. About 15.5 miles in though I lost my chain. Rode a little longer, only to lose it again, and discover that my chain issue was due to a missing chainring bolt. Apparently I didnt do such a good job of tightening those suckers down on the initial build. So I had to pull out my tools, my leatherman and my multi tool, both which were pretty rusted from all the rainy rides I had done, and after I forced them open, I tightened down the remaining bolts and got going again. BUT, after all that was done, I had given up trying to race the ride anymore I didnt think I was going to be able to bridge the gap to the lead group.

NK: So, what did you do then?

NK: O I kept riding as fast as I could. At that point, we started hitting some real hilly sections, and I could definetely feel the effort. catching up to me.

NK: Really? What was happening, tell us, bring us in....

NK: Well, first of all, I had forgotten my Specialized body geometry gloves, so I bought some mechanix gloves from Lowes. I had brand new grips on the machine and after only 15 miles or so my palms were raw. They were hurting like a bitch, and my hands felt so freaking hot, but I didnt dare take off the gloves cause I didnt want to lose my grip and smash my face. Right around mile 18, while I was riding the hilliest part of the course, I had to just stop and collect my thoughts.

NK: Stop?

NK: Ya, I stopped, grabbed a bar out my Epic Ride Research Mountain bike feedbag and ate and contemplated.

NK: How do you stay so calm and collected when your physical is under so much stress?

NK: Its being in the moment NK. I had to deal with what I had at the time , and at the time, I needed to collect my thoughts.

NK: So what did you come up with, what was your plan at this point, at only 18 miles in, you still had quite the distance to cover.

NK: Well, I figured, Imma go into survival mode, till I make the rest stop which I hoped was at either mile 20 or 25. I made a list of things I needed to feel strong again: 1. some serious electrolyte replacement. 2. some chain lube, my bike was driving me nuts. 3. some more food. 4. a snickers. 5. some ice and some water. 6. a five minute nap.

NK: Wow, quite the list.

NK: ya, I also decided that if I didnt feel like climbing some of these hills, I was gonna walk. I tell you after 18 miles I felt the equivalent effort of riding 40 miles. People dont understand the effects on your body when you dont have the luxury of coasting.

NK: Right...

NK: After digging deep, and just riding in survival mode and losing a ton of time. At mile 26 I reached the sag stop.
NK: wow. What did you do?

NK: I took my gloves and helmet off and my shirt and grabbed some food and sat.

NK: When did you get to work on your needs list?

NK: Immediately after a short chat. I discovered, they ran out of gatorade, but I got my Ice water, I got some food, and they were kind enough to get some motor oil of their car dipstick and lubed my chain.

NK: Did you feel like quitting at this point?

NK: O no doubt, the mind will eff with you. My brain was totally telling me to bail, and the SAG support was doing their job by suggesting the same andd telling me that, 26 fixie miles is not a bad accomplishment and how many people had already bailed at that point. BUT, I told them, No freaking way, I was gonna continue.

NK: What about the "serious electrolyte thing and the snickers"?

NK: WEll I asked for directions and rode 2 miles off course, got my gatorade, got my snickers and sat under a tree and replenished. I then, skipped the nap, put my gloves away in my pack, put my music headphones on, and got to work.

NK: work?

NK: Ya, I was in the mood all the sudden to get back to work. I rode the 2 miles back to return to the course and started working, singing aloud, enjoying the sights, I flipped the switch from race mode to speed touring mode and it really paid off, I felt great. I started counting down the miles and just focused on 10 miles at a time.

NK: Interesting...

NK: Ya, I saw a deer, many butterflies, some buzzards, a turtle, a wild turkey, lots of college students. After the SAg, the trails were relatively flat in comparison to the powerline section, so I was in heaven, My palms were still hurting, but grabbing the center of the bars by the stem was really helping alot.

NK: good, so now your going, your back on, your feeling good...

NK: Indeed, I continued my feed schedule, and then right around mile 45 I started missing turns and having to backtrack, and I did that several times. Even had to call Robert at one point to get directions to get back on course.

NK: Ok, did he get you back on course?

NK: O ya, Robs the man, got me back on course, and I knew by then that I was gonna finishe, even though at that point I still had 12 miles left.

NK: Right. Wow. But you pushed on.

NK: Without a doubt, I wanted that notch on my top tube, I wanted to claim the fixie fame for this ride. I kept going, missed turns, back tracked got on course, hit the powerlines again, got a call from Rob. He told me I was almost done, when I hit the dirt road and paved road, I got into Time trial mode and just hammered it.

NK: Amazing.

NK: Indeed, finished the ride, and I was elated. Lot's of support from all the riders, I even won a prize.

NK: A prize?
NK: Ya, I didnt even know, that they had prizes. I got a patch, DFL for the 2009 Catch 22. Technically, I was the last rider in, but first in my class for sure, and not all 44 did the entire ride, people cut out sections, lots just bailed, it was a Hot and humid day.

NK: no doubt, excellent effort. What's next.

NK: Well, Lots of prep rides on the Fixie before the CFiTT. I am going to do it Fixie, I am working on my strategy, I will endure lots of pain in the name of Fame, but that's not the only thing.

NK: Not the only thing? Really?

NK: Well, I figure if I am going to go out and destroy myself, I am going to bring in a higher purpose. I am going to be doing some fundraising and whatever money's I raise I am going to donate to Pink ribbon international in support for Breast cancer research, awareness, etc. I have had some close people experience this and just recently someone very close has had to deal with this very thing. I really feel its a great opportunity, and it will give me extra motivation.

NK: Where can people donate?

NK : I will be putting up a link on this very blog, today, and people can donate, and I will keep a running tally, and whatever I raise I will send off to the pink ribbon society.

NK: Do you have a goal?

NK: Ya, I wanna get ten dollars for every fixie mile I get, as a fundraising goal... Im not asking people to give me that much, every little bit helps, I am just putting a number, so what is that 1700 dollars? I guess, who knows we will see. I plan on contacting some media sources as well, to help get the word out there and I recommend everyone tell their friends and they tell a friend the more support the better.

NK: Well thats admirable...

NK: I must admit, a fellow racer made the suggestion, I didnt think of it on my own. I was way too caught up in the race to even think about it. I am caught up now, I got a list of things to do to minimize the self destruction I will inflict on myself on October 10th. So I will be busy over the next couple of weeks to say the least.

NK: Well, Naked Indian, as always, great story, a real pleasure and we love talking to you.

NK: Indeed, thank you very much... O, Huge thanks to Robert Bounds, Team Green, for all their hardwork and hospitality, David Ruckstuhl for the Crash pad, Hi MOM, Hey Kain and Kailan and Gabriel, what's Up Palomita...


NK: Thats all we have for today folks and thanks for tuning in for Naked on Naked...


Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Friday, September 18, 2009

ITs ThAt TiMe Of YeAr aGaiN

The Catch 22.

I got a chance to participate in this event in 2007 for the first time.

I immediately fell in Love because it reminded me so much of my local routes that I put together, aka the Naked Indian Trail.

Went back in 2008, this time the Bird and I did it together, and had lots of fun. That year was better than the first.

Now, I'm heading back there this evening to do it all over again. This time to tackle it Fixie.

Earlier this year, I did the Tour De GAinesville, my first official finish, and my first official fixie finish. Now this year, I get to put another fixie notch on my belt. Let's take quick inventory of my Furious Fixie achievements in 2009.

The Naked Indian Ride, Fixed. 63 miles
Tour de Felasco, Fixed. 50~ miles
Ididaride, Fixed. 50~ miles
Croom 50 Fixed. 50 Miles
Tour de Gainesville, Fixed. 62~ miles
Renegade Run Fixed. 77~ miles

Now I get to add Catch 22 Fixed. That's alot of Non coasting miles. Considering that I MAY do the CFiTT fixie, that's another HUGE fixie ride. Best part is, when did I start riding off road fixie. Well I got my tommi cog for Christmas in 2008, so it was sometime after then.

In none of those rides, did I finish last, in fact, I have always been impressed by how good of speed I can maintain. Although, I have been reminded by some geary coastie riders, what can be done when you got the freedom to coast.

Best part about all my fixie adventures is that I didn't have not one single fixie related crash. Hence the reason I gave myself the Unofficial title of the "best technical rider in the state". I may not be the fastest, but I don't know anyone else in the state of Florida that can lay claim and verify that many fixie miles, thru technical terrain and challenges without a crash.

Regardless, I have not ridden my fixie since sometime after the Renegade Run, so, I am left wondering what will happen? Will I be able to just get on and go? My leg's are pretty rested, How many MajikJaks will it take before I remember that I cant coast. Will I finally lay the bike down for a crash? Who knows but I intend to find out. I can most certainly guarantee, that I will be too busy pedaling and trying to keep contact with the lead group to stop and do live updates, but who knows, I get bored and I am an attention whore so I may just shoot an live update or two, keep your eyes open.

Huge Thanks to Robert Bounds and Team Green for always doing an outstanding job and putting together, what I consider to be one of the most dynamic cycling experiences in the State.

If you have not been to one of these, seriously, what are you waiting for??? With Rob's permission, I will actually post up a GPX file, IF, Rob allows it, if not, then you will just have to try and make the ride sometime you big wussies!

LOL.

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

PrECiOuS MoMeNtS

Admittedly this year has been tough. My favorite number is 9 and I thought for sure, that since it was 2009 the year would be one for me to shine and shine. But it has not. Its been a year for learning hard lessons, and enduring numerous trials and tribulations.

As I type this, my mind is troubled. Troubled by the burdens society places on us "grown folk". Remember that MTV show, Unplugged or whatever it was. I want to host the Naked Indian Unplugged, and just unplugg from grown up world. Just disconnect from my financial responsibilities. Man it would be so nice, so liberating.

Well, sometimes when I get "down" like this, I search for something to distract me from the hard decisions I often have to make. This morning as I was caught up in the excitement of getting off to work. I watched as LiLr NakedIndian, got up, got dressed and said his good bye, jumping on his 26er Green RedLine monocog and pedaling off swiftly. It warmed my heart to see him just pumping his little legs on his single speed and just going, going, going....

It was what I would call a precious moment, that I took a mental snap shot off, to help bring me cheer....

*sigh*

Looking at my calendar. Everyday brings me one day closer to the big race. Looking at the days I have left and planning how to squeeze in that last bit of preparation. LOL, funny part is, I dont even know how I am going to get home after its all said and done... O well...

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Monday, September 14, 2009

MaGiKJaK

One of my favorite things to do when I was riding my fixie and showing up to rides and such. When someone would get really interested in the bike I would encourage them to take it for a spin, only to laugh hysterically when I saw the look on their face as the bike jacked their leg up into their hips.

Call me sick.

When I took the War Machine for a spin to make sure I had set everything up nice and wobble, I felt the greatest sensation of relief.

Truth be told I wanted to show up to the CFiTT on the Black Beauty, but after that little test spin, im feeling the urge to ride the War Machine. The poetic beauty of being one with your machine. The sheer majik of being a sacred synergistic soldier on a relentless animal of a contraption that could toss you and literally rip your limb off if you make a mistake. Only those who have ever rode fixie can understand, anyone else merely looks at it and scoffs.

So once again the internal debate has begun... I think the best way for me to settle this is to hit the forest for a pre CFiTT torture fest and see how I feel.

This Saturday is the Catch 22, your gonna miss one hell of a ride Im pretty sure of it. Glad Im down with the G ville Massive, truly honored that I get invited to these events. Matter of fact I will be posted up all weekend At Dave's Crib with the Warrior's Princess.

So excited. Catch 22 wiill be test one, then the next weekend, a little romp in the forest to see whats good.

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiAn

Sunday, September 13, 2009

ReTuRn Of The FuRy!!

Sitting at home, a lil bored a lil bummed.. Read Eric's Blog (check my links) and got inspired to finally put together the War Machine Aka the Fixed Gear of Fury. I wanted to put a cyclocross middle ring up front, but nah, didnt fit. So I put it back the way it was. Huge thanks to Brett who gave me some Ergon Gx1 grips, and Rob Roberts who swapped seat post with me. Literally 30 min after I started the bikes all together and feeling beautiful. These small grips make me want to get a pair for the Black Beauty... But With my current budget and situation thats not gonna happen. Just in time for the Catch 22, perfect..

Laters,

The NaKed InDian

No SuCh ThInG...

As Coincidence.

I don't believe in it. I believe everything happens for a reason....


Case in point...

Friday... I decided to just take the day off and not go out and do work. I was tired after driving about 1700 miles over three days. Instead, I got some shopping done, paid some bills, made some calls.

It was about 2pm and I knew LiLRNakedINdian was gonna be getting out of school. So I decided to drive over, park off the main road, and watch him ride by on his way home. Kind of a sentimental moment for daddy kind of thing. Watching him from afar without him knowing.

As I parked, the rain was coming down in Buckets. Its 215 and I get a call from LILRNI himself. He tells me his Friend has a Flat and its raining and could I come pick them up. I ask him where they are, and after figuring out his location, I told him to walk a block up, that I was parked right there.

They walked up, SOAKED. They both ask how did I know that they were gonna need a ride, how did I anticipate, was a I a mind reader. I loaded up their bikes and drove them home, and I got a good soaking as well in the process.

That moment right there reminds me that there is no such thing as coincidence. Even the smallest moves, the people we meet, the things we learn are all part of something bigger that we may just not understand at the moment.

This weekend, was spent ride less. After working a full day yesterday, I had the NI boys all weekend so I could not do my planned overnight ride. I wanted to go hit a good long ride this morning, but felt guilty leaving the boys alone, considering how much time I spend a week working and doing other things. Sometimes, you got to make sacrifices and I instead stayed home, being present, being a good Daddy.

So in the middle of my preparation, I took a rest week. I guess that's OK right, next week, its back to long dirty rides and sick Yoga contortions.

Right, a rest week in the middle, No such thing as coincidence...

Keep the shred alive folks... enjoy the miles when you can squeeze them in...

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Thursday, September 10, 2009

diSsMiSseD

In 1996 while driving some backcountry North Carolina road a Man crahsed his car something terrible. When they took him to the hospital the police determined that he had beeb driving under the influence. Unfortunate indeed as now not only was he injured but he had been arrested.

Apparently he had hit his head so hard that when the police asked him for his information, he told them MY information.

Fast forward 13 years later I go to renew my license and they would not do it. They said I had to resolve my DWI and my failure to appear in North Carolina first.

So I had a hard time finding the time to go up and handle this. On top of it all I was not happy not one bit about the fact that I had to spend money to resolve this.

I raced xc for 10 seasons. Made me a pretty aggressive XC racer,I learned the importance of that initial bunch sprint and how to dive into the smallest pocket to edge someone out into the single track. I tend to drive like I race sometimes.

One particular morning, I got pulled over. The cop was not impressed by my aggressive driving, BUT since i had technically not broken any laws he pulled me over not for a ticket but for a lecture. Till he discovered my license was expired and threatened to "haul my ass to jail".

So the time had come to resolve this matter. Tuesday aftet spending a fantastic weekend throwing and hosting a slumber party, hosting and hanging with WP and CHoko Brown, i packed a day bag and took the marathon drive to Durham North Carolina.

I drove, slept, drove slept, till I stopped at a rest area about 50 miles away and called it a night. I got to the court on time and sat there all day.

Eventually, I was the last one called up. And after some bantering and legal mumbo jumbo, we determined that they didnt have any pictures or prints of the person who used my info, so they dismissed the case.

The drive back was long and I decided to break off on a secret mission. Drove Past Charlotte, ashville, Atlanta and even discovered that Alabama is not flat. This afternoon I finish the drive home and jump right back into my fun filled life...

Awww the Marathon Miles are Marvelous...

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiAn

Monday, September 07, 2009

PhEELiNG PSyCLoCroSS


Im having so much fun on this bike....Everyone should have a Psyclocross.

I digg the Moustache Bars, coupled with the Long stem, its the only bike I can get my Wobble naught optimal reach on, and it shows (not true with aero bars on my MTB's I can obtain it as well). With that 48 Tooth, I can hit a good 32 mile Sprint AND tick off a good 3 mile Organic Interval at 23 to 25mph avg No prollem. AND they are a lot of fun off road. You really cant tell in this pic, but I custom (its my explanation of the poor wrap job I did) wrapped the bars super thick at the lowers and the bend for Long distance squishy comfort. I like how they are working on the cross, but I didnt fall in love right away. I have learned to like them, at first I hated them.

STILL, Go out and get you a cross bike... LOL, I love my options for riding and I feel like I am getting my optimal preparation on for the CFiTT. My strategy is set, I know what I am going to do and I am going to make sure I am prepared to do it.

I have a couple of good rides on my cross planned as I will hopefully explore the forest tomorrow while the boys are at school and then Next Saturday, if all goes as planned, I will do a Super Long Overnight ride that will give me a chance to test some more of the skills I am trying to develop for the CFiTT. I actually do have a sleep strategy that I will not discuss, that goes hand in hand with My pack strategy that I will not reveal. BUT, you would love to hear it, especially if your interested in coming out and having a good showing.

I have Googled all competitors in the Race and there are some that I have discovered have some pretty impressive resumes. SO, the competition is WAY HARDER than I thought. So, in my Mind, I am now focused more on hoping that my experiences with riding in these conditions and these type of courses will help me have a faster route time. AND I will reveal that a HUGE part of my goal is having a GOOD TIME. SO, those that choose or can keep up with me and ride close to me will surely be guaranteed some.

Cause after all, that's what this cycling thing is all about. Thats what adventures are all about, Its about having a good time!

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Saturday, September 05, 2009

RiDeRs Of ThE StOrM

Early was my rise to head out to the office to work the check in counter.

I actually like the check in counter. I stand there, check in work orders and cut jokes all morning. I love making people laugh, I get a real kick out of it.

After that, I rolled over to the store and Purchased LiLRNakedIndian a birthday suit. A nice outfit that he could wear to make this day extra special. After which I headed home to continue with my household duties and tying up some loose ends.

After I did a Myriad of things, I got a little comfy on the couch watching the Mavericks surf contest and took a 20 minute power nap.

Woke up and loaded up the bike, but the day had passed me by so my plans to explore that legal route where thrown out the window. So I opted to do the Dirty hilly Training ride but counter clockwise. As always when I left the house I was just saying to myself how I was gonna take it easy and just cruise the route. And Before I know it I was checking my watch and predicting splits.

There is a house on Old Train Road. One time I rode by there and the yard was completely flooded the house was this close to getting swallowed by water. This time I rode by it and it appears the darn thing has burned down. I thought about that for a fleeting moment how crappy it would be for all your crap to be consumed by flames. Wondered what caused if, even wondered if they did it on purpose to collect the insurance money. Created this mini drama in my mind that they had somehow got behind in the payments and did it to try and regain their footing.

The road was rolling well and eventually I could hear the rumblings of a thunderstorm. I decided that I would try and make Cassadega in 30 minutes or less. Once I emerged from the dirt roads I had hit the pavement and I had 9 minutes and about 3 miles left. So I tucked all the way in to my Moustache bars got as Aero as I could and started turning over the pedals at a steady cadence. Before I got to the first turn, the water started coming down. I stopped, put away my music phone, in a bag and into my Osprey pack. Then rode some more, and had to stop and pull out my jacket. It was storming so hard, that the rain was hurting my skin. Damn, I got about 1 mile away from my destination and the rain stopped completely. I got into Cassadega, stopped at the hotel, wiped down my glasses and strapped my jacket to the outside of my pack and kept rolling again with the music back on.

The rest of the ride went well and despite my promise of an easy pace, I still finished close to the same time I did the last time I did the ride.

Good ride, good fun. But I have a streak going, every ride I have done so far it has stormed at one point or another.... How fun... I love getting caught in the rain, what can I say, Im a glutton for punishment.

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

ITs LiKe ThE GaMe AiNt ThE SaMe....

Phew...

I feel like I have been waiting to exhale all week.

A full work week, 12 hours a day for 5 days straight. Tomorrow morning I need to go help out in the office for two hours.

90 minutes of Yoga time and a 6 hour ride in the works for tomorrow A.M. that is my sweet reward for all the work I did this week.

Its been a home ownership battle ground, as I painted the living room. Decorated, after waitinf for 6 years... Then reconfigured an redid the way my garage was laid out, at the same time fighting this horrible AC leak which is not solved yet, but at least I have a temporary fix going. At the same time, I got my LiLR Naked Indians' Birthday this weekend and The Warriors Princess and ChoKo Brown are coming to visit.

Just another hectic week in the world of me.

Tomorrow should be fun.

We are all Now Familiar with the Cross Florida Off road route that Myself and Rob Roberts put together.

What alot of you dont know is that it keeps going. All the way back to paisley creating what we like to call the EYE of the HURRICANE.

So There is a Not so recommended route across the Seminole Forest that I am going to go tomorrow and scout out and see if I cant make it a completely legal route across the forest.

Using the TopoFusion software, I created a track that I just loaded on to my GPS and I will ride about 22 miles to the start of the ride, 7 to 8 miles across the forest, then 12 miles into Deland and another 17 miles back to my house. So, quick math here, 22 + 8 + 12 + 17 = 60 miles or so???

Wow, LOL, ya should take me six hours or less, and that's including water and refuel stops.

I have really dissected the Primal Blueprint over the past week and believe I have finally found all the keys to solving any and all nutrition issues. So I am confident I will be able to cruise the route no problems. I dont have any real form of Ideal Electrolyte replacement so I will have to rely on Gatorade and such till I can get some of those Endurolytes again.

Ok, So it should be a fun adventure. After all that riding, I am hosting a Slumber Party for LiLRNaked Indian and then somewhere in the wee hours of the morning ChoKo Brown and the Warriors Princess Roll into town and the Fun kicks up an even higher notch.

I got to say, the Law of Attraction is so actual Factual. You really can manifest and create your own reality.

Awesome...

Check tomorrow I May get in the mood to do some video post. I will be on my Cross as The Not to be named to be raced bike is in Modification form and I have no choice but to Surly Cross check all my rides at the moment. If the dirt is hard across the forest, I will be spared any hike a biking, I hope it is...

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Thursday, September 03, 2009

FoUnD

I finally found what I wanted with the Yoga.

Last night I did a 40 minute work out, that was labeled intermediate advanced.

10 minutes into it, I was wondering how I was gonna make the next thirty.

Drenched in sweat, I literally ripped my "worn yoga mat" to shreds.

I made it threw, but some poses I could not master, and I took some breaks heaving and resting when I normally would have not. All why this dainty lil delicate flower on my TV screen just contorted and twisted and balanced her way thru all the motions.

My new favorite, Imma keep doing it till I master it.

There is this one pose in there I have yet to understand how she got into it...Geeze....

Well, In other news, I am going to be adding some items to my shopping list and having deep discussions with the Warrior's Princess to see what her best advice is on these new products and things I want to try...

That's all for now, been a long tough week, but I feel good rounding the bend and heading towards the weekend.

LilR naked indian turns 10 on Monday so Im pretty psyched about that!!!

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

FaNaTiC

Did not want to write today.
Spent all day reading.
Bout outdoor survival, Nutrition, and such.
ReCalibrating.
ReFocusing.
Interesting day.
Kinda Feel Good.

Talk
more...

Tomorrow....

The NaKeD InDiaN

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

TiREd

In the interest of Venting....

Top then Things I am tired off.

10. The not to be named social networking site... Frankly, Im just bored to piss of it. Its like, cool, but its like not cool too. Its like the ultimate tool for nerd culture. Im usually sucked in, but lately, I think it just sucks.

9. Unconscious Humans. Really, the more I think about it, the more life is like the Matrix. There are so many people that everyday just take the Blue Pill. Really, people need to wake up. For real.

8. EXTENDED MARATHON days. So tired of getting up early everyday and going to bed late everyday, I need a vacation from my vacation on top of my vacation.

7. Identity Theft Issues. Yes I was a victim. And Now I am having to come up out my pocket and spend precious time away from my Family and my bike to go and fix something I didn't do. Goodness I hope that they don't try to throw me in Jail when I go up there next week. Anybody want to take a Road Trip?

6. Money. So sick of that Crap. WTF, that shit really makes the world go round. And if you got to work to get it, then you spend it, then you got to work to get more. MAN I need to figure out a way to get paid for my talents. FIRST, I need to figure out what My Talents are.

5. Convenience Stores and Fast Food Restaurants. THERE IS ABSOLUTELY ALMOST NOTHING TO EAT IF YOU WANT TO EAT HEALTHY AND YOU DON'T PACK YOUR LUNCH, F****G B*****T...

4. Home Ownership. O the joys of Homeowner ship. What are they exactly? Something breaks I got to spend money to fix it. Like right now, Im trying to fix an AC problem, I cant even freaking adjust a front derailleur on a bicycle or bleed some freaking disc breaks how am I supposed to fix a freaking AC problem. And drywall work, WTF, I don't know what the heck I'm doing are you freaking kidding me. I wanna get myself an apartment and be done with it. I think I may shoot myself in the face if this AC unit breaks.

3. Teenagers. OMG. I cant believe It, I have become the Crochity old man that looks at the way they dress and complains. I was yelling at LIL Naked Indian this morning. Why the heck you wear so much clothes, your wearing boxer shorts, with basketball shorts with jeans on top with a wife beater and a T shirt on top, are you going to the desert and I don't know about it???

2. This fu***ng web site http://www.mypyramid.gov/?gclid=CLTcg4XS0JwCFQ0aswodIjhAOg
So much bull crap and they wonder why Americans are constantly sick.... Hmmm, I'm sure the pharmaceutical companies are overjoyed. I got news for you people, illnesess are caused by fungus, fungus grows in your body from eating too many grains and sugars.... ITs a CATCH 22 folks, they keep you sick on purpose and the pharmaceutical companies get rich, feeding you anti fungal medicines. Break the cycle.

1. Working for a living, I need to find a way to get paid to ride bike. AND win a ton of money in the process....

Laters,

The NaKeD InDiaN