Ok.
Route is almost done marking.
There will only be ten balloons on course.
There are some clues for picture points in the cue sheet.
Here are some more Picture Points to collect.
A picture of you swinging on a swing set or butt sliding the slide, there are at least three parks along the route.
A Picture of you high fiving a store clerk at any convenience store on the route.
A picture of you perched on the tree that hangs over Lake Beresford.
A picture of you in a 3 point football stance by the rail road tracks.
A Caracol style Shell from Old Train Road, look down you will see them.
An Autograph signature from the Warrior Princess.
Ok, thats all for now. Remember, Beer is Mandatory at the Angelina Stop. If you dont drink Beer, then why are you coming to the ride!
O and bring a lock or have a friend with a Lock.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
ThE Nk RiDe CuE ShEeT
Here it is. Do with it what you like, I recommend you read it. Some navigational tips. You cross I 4 twice once under once over. You cross rail road tracks twice, Once over Once under. Make notes of those crossings as you ride so you can backtrack and navigate. This sheet may be overkill but I want everyone to ride their ride and cruise their pace. LATE EDIT, HERE IS THE LINK TO THE MAP PRINT AND ZOOM ALL YOU WANT Also added all possible watering and food spots along the way study accordingly: NK RIDE MAP
Laters,
LOS
Start at 201 Howland Blvd
Deltona, FL 32738 head out of park towards Howland blvd.
Look for arrow cutting straight across grassy patch between two trees
Follow arrows around corner.
You are now running parallel to Howland Blvd.
Bike path ends, take to grass and pedal across to TABB Rd go left
Take Tabb rd to Right on Stallings Ave
Take Left on George Sauls St
Take left on Planter Ave
Take left on Roland ave, Stay on Roland till it ends, then make left onto sidewalk
Take sidewalk till road ends on Enterprise Osteen rd aka Lake shore drive and hang a right.
Take Enterprise Osteen Rd/lake shore drive for several miles. After series of S curves look for Bethel loop road on right, take Bethel loop road and go straight.
After Looping on the road start looking to right for Green tree markers and make a right into side cut trail followed by an immediate right onto Old Railroad bed trail/double track. Take that trail straight
Stay on that Old Enterprise Rail Bed trail, it will open up to a road; stay straight till trail starts again across all the roads… Whatever you do stay straight. Old Enterprise Rail bed will start up again.
Eventually, you will see a fallen tree across the trail, hang a right and instead of following the work around around the tree, follow green markers into the the trail towards the crescent moon outhouse.
After outhouse go left and follow markers onto limestone road. Limestone road merges onto Old Titusville dirt road, merge and continue in the direction that you are pointed towards as you come out of the trail. Follow the green markers.
At the End of Old Titusville road, make a left and then look for blue markers on road taking you around the gate to the church, cut across the grass, then back onto the parking lot, follow the blue markers, and look for green markers which lead to the single track trail called the Morality trail.
The morality trail has headstones with religious sayings; follow the trail look for blue markers on trees as spray painted dots. Once it opens up and you see the lake, start looking towards the left for a huge down log that you have to hike a bike over. Follow green tabs, cross the small over flow creek and follow the green markers thru the trail which eventually veers right.
Stay on that right direction and keep going straight onto the dirt roads.
Follow green markers and continue on the road till it turns to paved road and keep going straight. It will go straight through and eventually turn to dirt again, this is Braddock rd.
Follow road till it ends watch for long climb, road eventually dumps out to main road Doyle rd. Take left onto sidewalk look for green markers. Follow markers across one cross walk, which crosses providence, then across the cross walk that covers Doyle rd. Busy intersection watch for cars. After Crossing Doyle rd continue Left onto sidewalk running parallel to Doyle Rd.
Continue on sidewalk till you make a right turn onto Elizabeth Rd, look for blue markers.
Follow Elizabeth rd till you make a left turn onto Lexington ave. Go straight and ride the new constructed road and follow it straight through the curve, look for blue markers, ride towards and past the detour/road closed signs. Keep going straight.
Once on the new not yet opened road, go around enormous dirt pile and continue on the road following blue markers.
Markers eventually merge you onto Debary ave, follow Debary ave till you pass the I 4 underpass and pass the Burger king. After the BK lounge merge into middle turn lane and venture towards sidewalk on left.
Stay on Sidewalk straight till it turns into a bike path. You are now on Gemini Springs Bike path.
Stay on this bike path till it ends through all its turns and twist, watch for blue markers.
After wooden bridge, path comes to a T stop and hangs a right.
Follow bike path straight till it turns into a Old Deland Rd.
At End of Old Deland rd, watch for blue markers continue straight on across 17-92 to sidewalk on other side then travel right on sidewalk away from the huge bridge.
Continue on sidewalk till you spot convenience store on left.
Make left on Fort Florida
Then Right on Shell road immediately after, watch for blue markers.
Stay on Shell Road all the way till you cross another road and then look for blue markers taking you left onto Spring View commerce Dr.
Stay on Spring View commerce dr, till you reach a cul de sac, then follow blue markers up onto the gravel service road.
Follow un named service road around till it you see an old abandoned house on right, across from house watch for green markers and drop into the pit, fast downhill watch the sand pit at bottom, you go fast enough you will fly right through it.
Continue straight following a combination of Green and blue markers, veer right, then veer left to the 20% steep grassy climb.
Climb that sucker, then after power poles hang right. This road is very sandy and you may have to walk. Stay straight, double track veers right, stay straight watch for ORANGE markers on this section.
Track also veers right to a beaten super sandy path, DO NOT GO THAT WAY.
Pick the middle ride able path. You want to ride this double track on the grass closest to the orange markers, the path is downhill in nature and you want to keep your speed to float over stuff. Stay on the grass and pedal fast.
When path veers left, go straight across to opening. You see a gap and can see the railroad tracks head towards that and then go right onto the Railroad service road. Ride the RR service road till you come across a paved road
Hang a left onto High banks road.
Then Hang a quick right onto Dutchman’s Bend Road, it is a dirt road. Stay straight on this road. Eventually it makes you turn left, go straight into the forest look for blue markers on Pole.
Then once in woods veer towards right and go around the gate marking the state park boundary.
After crossing, go immediately left and then another right onto the grassy double track.
Stay on this Double Track till it opens up, instead of going left following the trail, go towards the clearing on right, and look for blue markers . The trail goes from wide to narrow single track to a hike a bike up onto the Rail Road Service road bed. Go left, look for blue markers. Follow this trail STRAIGHT till you go UNDER a TALL bridge. Once past the bridge about 1/4mile or less look for a marker on the tree that will allow you to climb up onto the paved bike trail.
Follow the bike trail in the same direction that you have been traveling. Stay on that bike path watch for a blue marker that leads you into the woods on left.
This trail starts with a huge log crossing, then you start navigating the trail. Watch for blue markers on trees and orange markers. There will be a couple of downed trees that you have to go over or under..
The trail goes towards the water then ends up right next to it. Look for orange markers leading away from the lake, follow this trail to the right up away from the Lake.
When coming out of trail look for blue markers go through the Rail Road tunnel and continue straight through parking lot, watch for left turn onto bike path.
Jump on Bike path then watch for arrow taking you into single track.
Once on single track watch for blue markers and orange markers till the trail reaches the bike path then goes back into the woods, follow the trail watch for spray painted markers and orange flags.
Follow trail till it dumps you out into another parking lot. Go straight through two gates then hang a right onto Fatio Road.
Take Fatio Road till it turns into McGreggor road, all the while you are on paved road for a couple of miles.
Once you reach the light, cross the road and head towards the Bank parking lot, follow the blue markers.
Follow blue markers into parking lot and cross parking lot till you see signs saying pizza, this is Angelina’s. All Riders are required to stop and drink a beer in honor of the event. So drink up. BONUS POINT FOR A DIGITAL PHOTO OF YOU WITH THE OLD LADY WITH THE BEEHIVE HAIRDOO.
After leaving the restaurant, go right and follow parking lot around till you pass TJ maxx and head towards Orange Camp Road.
Once to the Road, go right.
On this road, follow the blue markers till you get a chance to jump on the sidewalk on the right, then jump on the sidewalk. Follow the sidewalk till you cross Martin Luther King Boulevard. Once across hang a right onto the sidewalk that runs along MLK. It rolls and its fun deal with it.
Take sidewalk till it dead ends then make a diagonal beel line across the dirt and the road till the other side of MLK so you are riding with traffic watch for markers. Stay straight till the next light.
At light go left. Stay on this road till you almost reach the light on top of the bridge, watch for blue markers and zig zag across to the sidewalk on the opposite side of the road.
Once on the sidewalk follow the sidewalk, stay straight till you see a blue marker pointing to a double track down hill leading to the wolf pack run trail.
At the bottom of the hill, go left and follow path towards right stay on path till you come to a T Watch for Orange markers.
Once at the T hang a left.
Once at next T hang a right look for orange markers.
Keep going through all the ups and downs till you get to a gate, go around the gate and go left onto Old Enterprise Road, follow this road up the hill.
Stay on this road till it T’s into Cassadaga Road. Go right on Cassadaga road. BONUS POINT for taking a picture in front of the Spiritualist community Cassadaga sign.
Stay on this road and hang a right onto Chauncey road watch for blue markers.
Eventually turns into a ridiculous downhill go left onto Lake Rd
Then immediately left onto Steven St then right onto Marion st that runs along the park and behind the buildings. Stay on this road till it merges again with Cassadaga road, follow the blue markers.
Make a right on Kicklighter. Stay on this road, no turns till it turns to a dirt road.
Once it turns to dirt, stay left on the dirt, watch for blue and orange markers and then go left onto Pinola Road. Follow Ranch road hugging the right edge watching for orange markers.
Eventually you have the option to left, stay right road turns into Ranch Road follow orange flag markers.
Follow beaten road not driveways till you make a right onto Comanche Trail.
Follow Comanche trail and then hang a right onto Appaloosa trail. Follow Appaloosa trail, then veer left onto Courtland Blvd, watch for Orange Flags.
Dirt turns to pave and then hang a left on Beckwith.
Stay on Beckwith till you come across a blue arrow advising you to turn right on road
Turn right onto Commerce ave take it till ends and then make a left on Lockwood rd.
Take Lockwood rd straight it will turn to dirt then hang a left onto Hyder ave.
Take hyder Ave through gate, till it ends and make a right onto Old train Road. Look for orange and blue markers.
Stay on Old Train Road till it crosses into a double track. Follow orange markers till it comes to a tight gate access and go through straight on the double track,
Turn Right on the next Dirt Road Hickory Creek road.
Take it till it ends and go left onto sweet water bend rd.
Take that till it ends and make a right onto Tallwoods dr.
Take Tallwoods DR through pedestrian access on the left watch for markers and then make a left onto Villa dr.
Take Villa Dr to the next road, make a left on Van Allen.
Then Left onto Courtland.
After Newmark merge onto sidewalk.
On sidewalk parallel to Courtland watch for blue markers, eventually when you can see the intersection shortly after you will see a blue marker leading you to alley , follow alley around and cross Howland and then hang a left onto sidewalk running parallel to Howland.
Follow Howland till you see a blue marker pointing towards a double track in the woods across the street.
Cross into woods and look for orange markers leading you to the start of the pine ridge trail on the right.
Follow trail till you come to 4 way intersection look for markers leading you left.
Follow left trail till you come across markers leading on you fresh cut trail. Follow orange flags, ride towards them to stay on trail, eventually you will end up on Cemetery trail double track and go right.
Follow double track watch for sandy spots stay straight till it goes from double track to single track then follow the markers.
Follow markers till you see blue or orange markers taking u over a huge log onto a service road next to the cemetery again, watch for markers in a straight fashion, over a couple of logs into another double track.
It eventually leads to a T, at T make a left onto double track till it comes out to the Osteen Cemetery paved road and go right. Stay on this road to next stop sign.
Make a right on Trade road.
Take Trade road make left on to Colchester AVE watch for Blue markers, take downhill to Pamona road, then hang a left. Watch for blue markers leading you towards pond. Take Pond trail across follow orange markers till you end up on the road, go right onto Ronda Road.
Follow Ronda Road till it ends on Sandlor Rd go right.
Take Sandlor Rd to Tabb Road go left
Take Tabb Road to howland, cross left onto same grass where you started and head towards park.
End ride, drink beer or whatever you like, get a picture of you giving me a handshake for an EXTRAPOINT.
Laters,
LOS
Nk RiDe UpDatE 40080
Boy you guys are Lucky. I would now be comfortable saying that the course is 55% marked. I returned to Lake Beresford park yesterday evening to mark the sweet slice of single track that runs along the lake. When we attempted to navigate it on Saturday I discovered some storm damage from Fay and we got lost. I went back to mark it and find it in the day light.
I intentionally drove past the park to post up the truck on the side of the road since the park closes at sunset. What I discovered was astonishing. As I drove past the park I discovered another trail head, this one called Beresford Trails.
What I found was a small network, that includes a paved trail and some single track. I knew about the paved trail, but did not know that the single track had been groomed and marked. So I set out to explore them as the sun was setting, and after a little bit of riding around, I marked it. The NK ride now has about 1 to 2 miles more single track then it did before. That my friends is why I say your lucky!
More Shred for your dollar, cant beat that deal. got 45% more marking to go and by the end of today I am hoping I can say I got 15% more to go.
Bring Coolers if you plan to bring beer, and I will be doing a Cue Sheet, I do not want anyone who cant hang with the blistering peloton pace to end up lost.
I just got to figure out how to get the Cue sheet up for everyone. Maybe I post on here and you guys cut paste and print. If you got a better idea I am open to it.
Im still tossing around if I want to ride the NK fixie, prolly should since my goal is to do San Felasco Fixie.
Ok enough,
Laters,
Enjoy,
LOS
I intentionally drove past the park to post up the truck on the side of the road since the park closes at sunset. What I discovered was astonishing. As I drove past the park I discovered another trail head, this one called Beresford Trails.
What I found was a small network, that includes a paved trail and some single track. I knew about the paved trail, but did not know that the single track had been groomed and marked. So I set out to explore them as the sun was setting, and after a little bit of riding around, I marked it. The NK ride now has about 1 to 2 miles more single track then it did before. That my friends is why I say your lucky!
More Shred for your dollar, cant beat that deal. got 45% more marking to go and by the end of today I am hoping I can say I got 15% more to go.
Bring Coolers if you plan to bring beer, and I will be doing a Cue Sheet, I do not want anyone who cant hang with the blistering peloton pace to end up lost.
I just got to figure out how to get the Cue sheet up for everyone. Maybe I post on here and you guys cut paste and print. If you got a better idea I am open to it.
Im still tossing around if I want to ride the NK fixie, prolly should since my goal is to do San Felasco Fixie.
Ok enough,
Laters,
Enjoy,
LOS
Monday, December 29, 2008
ThE SpiRiT TrEE PhOTo JoUrNaL!!!
Thanks for the direction paintboy. It was awesome. We were goal oriented wanted to find the Spirit Tree. We found it in a beautiful spot. I will not reveal its location out of respect for what exist, but if your my buddy and I trust you I may tell you where it is.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
NaKeD InDiAn RiDe UpDaTeS
I want to post up on here to make sure that everyone gets the information before this coming Saturday's ride.
Just rode the course Saturday. All is in good condition. there are about 3 or 4 areas about 100 ft long or less each with deep sand that you will have to hike.
My friend did it with me for the first time, we got the mileage somewhere around 55 miles.
Be advised, out of those 55 miles 25 to 30 of it is dirt roads, double track, bike path and some singletrack. I dont want anyone coming with the expectation that this is an all off road ride.
This is most of all a tour and something I came up with cause I was tired of doing just road miles.
The other 20 to 25 miles are backroads, major roads and sidewalk, so, I just want to make sure that everyone that comes has a good level of expectation for what they will experience.
It is a very nice route and it covers 5 major towns. So you will have the chance to see many things...
As well... There is no longer a sprint race. Seems there are too many super fast mo fo's coming. So the sprint race has changed to a points race, easter egg fashion. Some points you will be able to sprint for, some you will have to keep your eyes peeled. At each point that has an opportunity for a score, there will be balloons, with numbers in them. You will have to not only retrieve the balloon but pop it as well and get and keep the number. At the end ride, the person with the most balloons will win the coveted NK ride Trophy #1.
any questions just ask, updates will keep coming as the week progresses. The course is about 35% marked, so more marking will go on this week.
Update 2: Bring a bundle of wood if your planning at staying for the Naked Indian Ride Fatty Festival. I have wood, but it may burn quick and lord knows how long everyone will be staying up and hanging out.
We will have a VERY DETAILED riders meeting Saturday Morning at 9am. I would like everyone to come before then and sign in so I can keep track of the bodies that will be out on course.
As a friendly reminder, this is a self supported ride. Please make sure you have supplies to survive on course. It will be marked and I will brief everyone day off the color markers used. I did give a map out, print and do what you must, study the route.
Technically there is no SAG WAGON. So once your smoked, make sure you still got about 20 miles left in you OR take a break and continue on route. There is really no one to pick you up if you feel you cannot make the distance. I will give out my number at the start of the ride and your free to call me and I can see what I can do to get you a ride, but I cant make any guarantees.
Stay tuned for more updates.
O bring chairs.
Laters,
LOS
Just rode the course Saturday. All is in good condition. there are about 3 or 4 areas about 100 ft long or less each with deep sand that you will have to hike.
My friend did it with me for the first time, we got the mileage somewhere around 55 miles.
Be advised, out of those 55 miles 25 to 30 of it is dirt roads, double track, bike path and some singletrack. I dont want anyone coming with the expectation that this is an all off road ride.
This is most of all a tour and something I came up with cause I was tired of doing just road miles.
The other 20 to 25 miles are backroads, major roads and sidewalk, so, I just want to make sure that everyone that comes has a good level of expectation for what they will experience.
It is a very nice route and it covers 5 major towns. So you will have the chance to see many things...
As well... There is no longer a sprint race. Seems there are too many super fast mo fo's coming. So the sprint race has changed to a points race, easter egg fashion. Some points you will be able to sprint for, some you will have to keep your eyes peeled. At each point that has an opportunity for a score, there will be balloons, with numbers in them. You will have to not only retrieve the balloon but pop it as well and get and keep the number. At the end ride, the person with the most balloons will win the coveted NK ride Trophy #1.
any questions just ask, updates will keep coming as the week progresses. The course is about 35% marked, so more marking will go on this week.
Update 2: Bring a bundle of wood if your planning at staying for the Naked Indian Ride Fatty Festival. I have wood, but it may burn quick and lord knows how long everyone will be staying up and hanging out.
We will have a VERY DETAILED riders meeting Saturday Morning at 9am. I would like everyone to come before then and sign in so I can keep track of the bodies that will be out on course.
As a friendly reminder, this is a self supported ride. Please make sure you have supplies to survive on course. It will be marked and I will brief everyone day off the color markers used. I did give a map out, print and do what you must, study the route.
Technically there is no SAG WAGON. So once your smoked, make sure you still got about 20 miles left in you OR take a break and continue on route. There is really no one to pick you up if you feel you cannot make the distance. I will give out my number at the start of the ride and your free to call me and I can see what I can do to get you a ride, but I cant make any guarantees.
Stay tuned for more updates.
O bring chairs.
Laters,
LOS
Sunday, December 28, 2008
FiXed in 09 parts 2 & 3
Well, Saturday was the big day. I took the fixie out while I was marking the trail for the Naked Indian ride.
My friend Magii showed up and joined me so I would not be all alone. It took all night, and I ran out of tape and paint and I still got a lot of marking to do, but that is how it goes in this business. Lesson Learned.
As for the bike, after 30 miles of straight pedaling and not being able to coast, I was exhausted. We finished the night and I learned a bunch about riding a fixed gear bike.
Even after I stopped my legs still felt like they were pedaling. But this is what I wanted after all, I wanted a new challenge and I wanted to do something that would make me stronger.
Sunday we got up early and decided to head to croom to do some more riding. I wanted to take the bird out there and I was intrigued by PaintBoy's (from the swamp.org forum) account of reaching the spirit tree. I never even knew about it and googled a little bit and asked him for directions and we went for it today. More on that part later.
Back to the fixed, I learned to ride some technical stuff with it. Some steep downhills and ups, and after today I think two things. 1. I think I can ride any trail fixed. Its easy by applying reverse pressure as your stroke goes on to slow down your speed. 2. I think I am ready to put the clips on and try that out.
I am having fun, my legs are toast, my first weekend riding fixed I did 75 plus miles of fixed riding. I would say I really gave it a thorough testing.
Next post will be pics and shots and a write up on our Spirit Tree experience. I really recommend you check it out. But, don't ask me where it is, cause I am not telling.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
My friend Magii showed up and joined me so I would not be all alone. It took all night, and I ran out of tape and paint and I still got a lot of marking to do, but that is how it goes in this business. Lesson Learned.
As for the bike, after 30 miles of straight pedaling and not being able to coast, I was exhausted. We finished the night and I learned a bunch about riding a fixed gear bike.
Even after I stopped my legs still felt like they were pedaling. But this is what I wanted after all, I wanted a new challenge and I wanted to do something that would make me stronger.
Sunday we got up early and decided to head to croom to do some more riding. I wanted to take the bird out there and I was intrigued by PaintBoy's (from the swamp.org forum) account of reaching the spirit tree. I never even knew about it and googled a little bit and asked him for directions and we went for it today. More on that part later.
Back to the fixed, I learned to ride some technical stuff with it. Some steep downhills and ups, and after today I think two things. 1. I think I can ride any trail fixed. Its easy by applying reverse pressure as your stroke goes on to slow down your speed. 2. I think I am ready to put the clips on and try that out.
I am having fun, my legs are toast, my first weekend riding fixed I did 75 plus miles of fixed riding. I would say I really gave it a thorough testing.
Next post will be pics and shots and a write up on our Spirit Tree experience. I really recommend you check it out. But, don't ask me where it is, cause I am not telling.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Friday, December 26, 2008
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
HaPPy HoLidAYs
Photo courtesy of Sandpine.It was typically celebrated on the Solstice.
This holiday that has existed longer than the religious implications it has today. A holiday celebrated by many for centuries before its current status.
To some people, winter was a time of death. Lots of lives would be lost during the harsh cold months. Modern science tends to keep us safe from such dangers, but the original intention did serve its purpose.
Tomorrow, take the day to be thankful for what you have and pray for the safety and prosperity of your friends and family.
So celebrate accordingly, share gifts if you like, and look ahead to the new year that is about to rise up and over the horizon.
A new year and new beginnings is a thing of perfect beauty.
Be safe out there, and have fun.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Monday, December 22, 2008
CrooM 35 Do Or DiE 35! WiNtEr SolSticE RidE
In my imaginary universe that I exist in; I like to create challenges for myself. This past Sunday was simple, go out and ride 35 miles or so, and keep the pace high on the steady end.
People talk about training. And I guess I am always training. My training Methods have been called unorthodox. The training "method" I follow is strictly Organic, my own creation. If Rocky Balboa existed and he was an MTbeer, he would train like me.
I went "off Season". Other riders tend to announce their off season to a point that it makes you wonder. I think if your Serious about improving and taking the sport to a level that helps you transcend this level of existance; Then your always training. Even when your not out riding hard, your focusing on your spin. Your thinking about how could I take that corner better. What could I do to go farther, faster with less energy. These thoughts However, happen deep in your sub conscious. That mind of ours, more powerful then any computer, can make complex physical algebraic calculations while you race along twisty singletrack. This instantaneous exchange is what keeps you from smashing yourself into trees.
When the mind miscalculates, the punishment could be severe.
I can improve your cornering skills with one sentence.
When cornering, look at where you want to exit in the corner
keep your head up and
bam, your railing turns like a speed skier.
Off Season means, that you intend to ride your bike and not give anything other than the ride a thought. Your gonna do Base Miles almost sounds like your planning to reward yourself by doing obsession free cycling. " I'm just going to ride."
Somost of the time my off season is my season time because I tend to "just take a ride" when I can" take a ride". I guess I need to change my point of view and make every ride just a ride, dirt or pave does not matter.
So Sunday I decided I need to make a payment. As Is Tradition, sometimes you must make a payment with marvelous deeds. By pushing yourself to another level. Sometimes payment means to Suffer, on purpose, just a little.
Sandpine came ready to rock. By the time I rolled up, dood had done like crazy Kilometers. I was like, "Damn SP your hardcore". I managed to get Rob Roberts up in that ride, which blew my mind away. And TL was in the house. Mike threw out the invite.
Mike can ride good, Ride's fast, So does Rob. So I really was looking forward to just trying to hold on or be held on too. I like to take the lead and set the pace and they let me. Everyone took a turn at front. We had some ground to cover, so we kept things brisk.
I was surprised by how many miles we had covered. My mantra in 2009 is that "I must become Callous." We had done 17 miles and I felt Fresh.
Becoming Callous, means that I must learn to ride 100 miles a day and not care. I must learn to accept the effort, be it dirty or paved. Accept single track, fire track, dirt road, soft sand, mud, limestone, asphalt, in any combination for at least 100 miles a day. In short, I need to become Callous.
The ride was awesome. I worked as hard as I wanted to, to try and "DROP" Mike and Rob. Im sure any of them could have "stood" up on me and "ghost dogged away". But it didnt happen, thank God I may have had to "turn myself inside out" to keep up on the Solstice ride...
All them brothers can ride in my book and if I had a T shirt I would have gladly distributed some.
SP, 50 miles. Ok! He needed to pay!
TL was taking itJamaican Easy, got into a fork in the trail and took the blue pill. 42 miles.
MK and Rob and myself ~~~est 35 miles.
Now Reap the Rewards Gentleman!
Shred.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
People talk about training. And I guess I am always training. My training Methods have been called unorthodox. The training "method" I follow is strictly Organic, my own creation. If Rocky Balboa existed and he was an MTbeer, he would train like me.
I went "off Season". Other riders tend to announce their off season to a point that it makes you wonder. I think if your Serious about improving and taking the sport to a level that helps you transcend this level of existance; Then your always training. Even when your not out riding hard, your focusing on your spin. Your thinking about how could I take that corner better. What could I do to go farther, faster with less energy. These thoughts However, happen deep in your sub conscious. That mind of ours, more powerful then any computer, can make complex physical algebraic calculations while you race along twisty singletrack. This instantaneous exchange is what keeps you from smashing yourself into trees.
When the mind miscalculates, the punishment could be severe.
I can improve your cornering skills with one sentence.
When cornering, look at where you want to exit in the corner
keep your head up and
bam, your railing turns like a speed skier.
Off Season means, that you intend to ride your bike and not give anything other than the ride a thought. Your gonna do Base Miles almost sounds like your planning to reward yourself by doing obsession free cycling. " I'm just going to ride."
Somost of the time my off season is my season time because I tend to "just take a ride" when I can" take a ride". I guess I need to change my point of view and make every ride just a ride, dirt or pave does not matter.
So Sunday I decided I need to make a payment. As Is Tradition, sometimes you must make a payment with marvelous deeds. By pushing yourself to another level. Sometimes payment means to Suffer, on purpose, just a little.
Sandpine came ready to rock. By the time I rolled up, dood had done like crazy Kilometers. I was like, "Damn SP your hardcore". I managed to get Rob Roberts up in that ride, which blew my mind away. And TL was in the house. Mike threw out the invite.
Mike can ride good, Ride's fast, So does Rob. So I really was looking forward to just trying to hold on or be held on too. I like to take the lead and set the pace and they let me. Everyone took a turn at front. We had some ground to cover, so we kept things brisk.
I was surprised by how many miles we had covered. My mantra in 2009 is that "I must become Callous." We had done 17 miles and I felt Fresh.
Becoming Callous, means that I must learn to ride 100 miles a day and not care. I must learn to accept the effort, be it dirty or paved. Accept single track, fire track, dirt road, soft sand, mud, limestone, asphalt, in any combination for at least 100 miles a day. In short, I need to become Callous.
The ride was awesome. I worked as hard as I wanted to, to try and "DROP" Mike and Rob. Im sure any of them could have "stood" up on me and "ghost dogged away". But it didnt happen, thank God I may have had to "turn myself inside out" to keep up on the Solstice ride...
All them brothers can ride in my book and if I had a T shirt I would have gladly distributed some.
SP, 50 miles. Ok! He needed to pay!
TL was taking itJamaican Easy, got into a fork in the trail and took the blue pill. 42 miles.
MK and Rob and myself ~~~est 35 miles.
Now Reap the Rewards Gentleman!
Shred.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Friday, December 19, 2008
StOnEd ImMaCuLaTe: ThE DLt WrItE Up PaRt 2
Once I rolled into Santos, the weather was perfect. The sun was out, it wasn't too hot, it wasn't too cold.
I had not had any real breakfast and had considered stopping at a place to eat, but I didn't want to eat junk food so Instead I ate the Organic Chicken Chili I had, grabbed a brew and ate while the first group from my team went out for a lap.
While they were gone, one of our Junior team members, Alexis, wanted to head over to the pump track area. Alexis is Seven and asked me to go with her, Wendy our only Adult Female racer and her Mother, told me to stay with her till she was with her brother.
So I rode the pump track and was intrigued by the weak feeling that I was having deep in my leg muscles. I guess riding 79 miles may had been having some impact on me. The pump track is fun, but I was sure getting tired. Eventually, while watching Alexis ride around, I started chatting it up with people here and there. Kind of waiting for her brother, he finally showed and I headed back to the campground to meet up with the team.
We regrouped and went out and did a lap of the race course. Fun stuff, cleaned it all, but I was really tired by the end of it. I guess the accumulated miles were indeed taking their toll. I took mental inventory for that, since in the GDR I will have to do back to back dirty hundies.
The night ended with a kick ass dinner and Olive Garden where I ate a huge steak and vegetables, then a big old fire at the campground. Warrior Princess showed up around 1130pm and we set up camp and settled in together.
I slept SOooo Good that night, got up late, then we went to IHOP for breakfast and then came back and suited up to watch the remaining of the racing. Finished the races, it was awesome to see everyone riding and working so hard and having so much fun and seeing them celebrate their personal victories!
The bird and I hit the trails and rode all the yellows on the Santos side and all the yellow and blues on the Vortex side and then headed back. I was coaching the bird and helping her develop her cornering skills, it was very fun and once gain the Bird proved that she has some serious Natural bike handling Talent.
We ended the day by getting showered up and heading to the Banquet. The Banquet was great fun, it was nice seeing everyone and shaking hands and socializing, I really do miss the XC race circuit and I am glad to see that Goneriding is still doing well. What they have done for the racing community cannot be measured, they truly belong in the Florida Hall of Fame. Just think how many great racers have grown into the sport locally and how many people went national or onto Endurance racing that got their start in Goneriding.
A great weekend, a great ride, with great people. When I reflect I feel so blessed. I spoke to some people I had never met before, got a lot of compliment and had lots of discussions based on the going Primal nutritional strategy I follow.
I was on such a high, that I could only describe my self image of the weekend and my accomplishments as feeling like I was Stoned Immaculate...
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
I had not had any real breakfast and had considered stopping at a place to eat, but I didn't want to eat junk food so Instead I ate the Organic Chicken Chili I had, grabbed a brew and ate while the first group from my team went out for a lap.
While they were gone, one of our Junior team members, Alexis, wanted to head over to the pump track area. Alexis is Seven and asked me to go with her, Wendy our only Adult Female racer and her Mother, told me to stay with her till she was with her brother.
So I rode the pump track and was intrigued by the weak feeling that I was having deep in my leg muscles. I guess riding 79 miles may had been having some impact on me. The pump track is fun, but I was sure getting tired. Eventually, while watching Alexis ride around, I started chatting it up with people here and there. Kind of waiting for her brother, he finally showed and I headed back to the campground to meet up with the team.
We regrouped and went out and did a lap of the race course. Fun stuff, cleaned it all, but I was really tired by the end of it. I guess the accumulated miles were indeed taking their toll. I took mental inventory for that, since in the GDR I will have to do back to back dirty hundies.
The night ended with a kick ass dinner and Olive Garden where I ate a huge steak and vegetables, then a big old fire at the campground. Warrior Princess showed up around 1130pm and we set up camp and settled in together.
I slept SOooo Good that night, got up late, then we went to IHOP for breakfast and then came back and suited up to watch the remaining of the racing. Finished the races, it was awesome to see everyone riding and working so hard and having so much fun and seeing them celebrate their personal victories!
The bird and I hit the trails and rode all the yellows on the Santos side and all the yellow and blues on the Vortex side and then headed back. I was coaching the bird and helping her develop her cornering skills, it was very fun and once gain the Bird proved that she has some serious Natural bike handling Talent.
We ended the day by getting showered up and heading to the Banquet. The Banquet was great fun, it was nice seeing everyone and shaking hands and socializing, I really do miss the XC race circuit and I am glad to see that Goneriding is still doing well. What they have done for the racing community cannot be measured, they truly belong in the Florida Hall of Fame. Just think how many great racers have grown into the sport locally and how many people went national or onto Endurance racing that got their start in Goneriding.
A great weekend, a great ride, with great people. When I reflect I feel so blessed. I spoke to some people I had never met before, got a lot of compliment and had lots of discussions based on the going Primal nutritional strategy I follow.
I was on such a high, that I could only describe my self image of the weekend and my accomplishments as feeling like I was Stoned Immaculate...
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The DLt GpS file.
In the interest of respecting the freedom of information act. Take a look at the GPS data. The funny part is that Flat line where I slept. I only rode 7 hours and change to cover those 79 miles, goodness what was doing the rest of the time.
Dirty Little Tour
Enjoy,
laters,
LOS
Dirty Little Tour
Enjoy,
laters,
LOS
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
StOnEd ImMaCuLaTe: ThE DlT WrITe Up Part1
Im milking this aint I.
I never had to go this alone. Mucaro said he would do a bikepacking trip with me. That's cool, but I see things. And I saw a chance to make a weekend out of it, a mini Escape from reality.
The footing of a Samurai is never to be too hesitant or over think a decision. A warrior when he sees an opportunity he will sometimes go with his gut, and my gut said, ride to Santos, camp, hang out with your excellent team mates, ride some more, drink, eat, pump track, Camp, fire, wife, great tent fun, watch the race, shred the singletrack with said wife, banquet, top it off the biggest moon in 400 years; IM IN!
Over the past couple of years I have worked hard. So mapping and cue sheet creating was a breeze. Had maps and back up maps. Got my bike all packed and set the day before. It was heavy, probably too heavy, but I am a first timer.
I was never concerned about my legs. I am not fast, I don't think, but I can ride for a long time, very long, like several days I think. The cold didn't worry me too much, I know the way to beat the cold is through technology. My bike the Salsa Mamasita, aka the Black Beauty, is a real thoroughbred and has NEVER let me down in a race or a ride. In fact my only concerns were Hunters and Bears; in that order.
To defend myself from the bears I was going to use a very eco friendly technique of playing my blue tooth stereo music as loud as possible. Not only did I have the sound to scare him off, but I had evil blue tooth death rays irradiating from my bicycle.
For Humans I had to get more creative. I would like to get a small pistol and a concealed weapons permit for protection, but for now, I had a ninja knife that fit very creatively on my hip belt in a very inconspicuous fashion. It was not meant to be used as a threat but more like a close quarters weapon. I also had Mace which works on all beast, and I also had my intellect, I had a story.
I figure I had enough gear and I was packed up tight enough that I looked pretty official. So my plan, if I encountered any rowdy types, was to go immediately into an aggressive authoritative stature and spout about how I am a Wildlife Officer on a routine nighttime environmental impact survey. Then Flip it on them and ask for I.D. and what they are doing here, and mention casually that I have a GPS locator Beacon that once activated will have law enforcement in the area within minutes stopping any and all vehicles.
I think it would have worked, I am a pretty good actor. I think way too much, Anyhow...
The ride started 1 hours and 20 min late. I had agreed with myself for Laughs to video blog some of it. I was going to have to send it to the bird and she would have to add it. But SP led me in the direction of using my Iphony to do it myself. We tested it and it worked. I made the first clip. And I thought it was pretty funny.
I took off, settled in, I knew I was going to be on the bike for a long time. Had to do a stop here and a stop there and get this and that always happens when you start a long trip. Anyhow I was settled in, using the Aero Bars, listening to music. All is going good, I jam on down the road and eventually after being passed like 100 times I was tired of hearing cars go by and I was yearning to make the trail before dark. I made it, decided to take a break, update my GPS coordinates and eat a little bit. I had only eaten once that day, I started the day way light on calories, anyhow, met Jim Savage.
Jim is from Colorado. He was a park ranger out there. I guess for winter he comes to work at Clearwater Lake in Paisley. We chatted. He asked me about my destination, I told him, he asked me where I was sleeping, I said a campground and he left. I ate some jerky, one bar and a half a bar of chocolate. Drank some of my ice coffee and then rolled out.
Paisley was SooOoo Nice, I was having so much fun. The bike felt similar to how it felt when I rode it threw Pisgah forest. So I was fine with the handling of it and learned to finesse the bike. I was doing climbs and descents working hard and using the Momentum to keep the bike going. Eventually it began to get dark and as the sun was setting on my west, the moon was rising on the east. I am so fortunate to experience such blessed experiences. It was awesome to watch the night and the day change positions like guards at a palace.
The Moon was extraordinarily large. Which Later I learned, Sandpine told me, it was the closest the moon had been to the Earth in like 400 years. For a second inside the Paisley trail I thought I was getting lost. But then I remembered, the moon is on my right, if I was going back toward the trail head , it would be on my left, and kept on riding.
Made it to Alexander Springs, sat out front, ate a little bit and did another video and gps update. At that point it was dark, the moon was climbing and I still had just a wool jersey, baggy shorts and my bibs. I kept going, I wanted to force acclimation and make my body accept the cold, I turned into Billy Bay Wilderness and I felt what they mean when they say Cold Snap. I hit a pocket of cold air that had to be 10 degrees cooler then what I was in before. I immediately stopped and layered down.
Got going, Billy Bay was lovely, but it got Sandy. I know how to ride that stuff, I made it out, and updated again. I got lost for a minute when I went straight and discovered that Camp Ocala was private land. I had my first human encounter. When she asked me what I was doing on her property I simply blinded her with my light and asked for water. She pointed me to a fountain and I reloaded and headed back. Once at the road I realized where I needed to go and took off down SR 19, Aerotard time!
Got going on 595 and it was the cat's meow. Perfect dirt road for 25 plus miles. Easy to follow, I passed Farles lake camp, saw hunters and kept going. No problems kept pedaling, had some ups and downs, pretty sweet. Stopped ate some food, and pressed on.
At one point I saw a flicker of light in the road, and noticed it was humans. I had been riding with my lights off to conserve, so I went a head and light myself up. I didn't want to startle someone that may have been holding a gun. When approaching I noticed two vehicles with three men in there late teens or early twenties. It appeared they were looking for something. I kept going and put the hammer down to put some distance between myself and them.
After some more miles I saw another light in the road. A very bright one, turns out some people, men and women were having a Bon fire in the middle of the forest road. I counted 15 people, Late Teens early twenties, both men and women, This seemed like a more rowdy bunch. Regardless, I light myself up and rolled right threw the middle of their party. They jeered at me and said silly things, but I just kept the pedal power down and my mouth shut.
Eventually I decided to turn around and look and low and behold, I saw headlights. I got a little worried and waited to see if they were moving. At a distance its hard to tell if lights are moving. Instinctively I put the pedal power down. I kept checking and sure enough they were coming. I waited till I saw a good side trail and rode down into it and stopped parked my bike and took a seat. I just didn't feel comfortable letting someone ride up behind me on this stretch of back country road. So strategically my best strategy was avoidance. So I parked, ate a snack did the math, I was starting to think about going to bed, I was getting sleepy had been up at it since 5am.
Waited after they passed and then got up and took off again. Came across another truck coming towards me. I was OK with this scenario cause I can avoid confrontations better from this standpoint. They passed without incident and eventually I made the road. I really celebrated this point in the ride. I only had like ten more miles to go so I was feeling really happy. I took a moment to update the GPS location and make a video. I got on the road, thinking ya, I got some roadie miles till I am done, no more dirt no more crazies.
Turn on to NW 24th st and it turns out to be a limestone road littered with pot holes. Normally, I would be totally stoked about something like this, but instead I was like thinking about going to bed. EVERY two trees I saw about 12 to 26 feet apart looked like the perfect spot to sleep. But then I remembered my goal and my desire to sleep by the river. That was like the whole reward for the first days effort.
Made it down the road with out incident and made it to the bridge without incident, found it Lit up Bright with a huge street light. PERFECT. I scouted the Camping spot and set up my hammock. Easy, it all went easy. I went straight to bed.
Overnight I had to adjust. I put my socks back on, put a shirt back on, but eventually I got some really good sleep. Heck I slept in till about 11am. I figured, I am going to wait out the morning cold in the tent. I had cell signal the whole time so I got several calls and text messages. I let everyone know that I had made it threw the night safe and sound.
The next Morning I got up and rolled out to Santos. Ate breakfast by the river, updated the blog and rolled out. Everything was going great, when I came across a park a short distance from where I had camped. This park has potable water and toilets and its not even 1 mile away from where I camped. AND it has a trail that will get you 5 miles closer to Santos without having to ride on the road. I found that last part out today. On Saturday morning I had an inkling and idea but I was unsure to try it, didn't want to poach a trail and get in trouble.
Eventually I made it to Santos. The road was very rolling with ups and downs, but I enjoyed it I don't think I did any climb that day or the one before sitting down, even on the dirt roads I stood and climbed. I just wanted to work it..LOL. Did a victory lap around Santos and hit the campground where I found my team mates.
The ride was done and I thought it was easy. Piece of cake is how I put it.
Tomorrow I finish the Santos portion of the DLT.
Enjoy
Laters,
LOS
I never had to go this alone. Mucaro said he would do a bikepacking trip with me. That's cool, but I see things. And I saw a chance to make a weekend out of it, a mini Escape from reality.
The footing of a Samurai is never to be too hesitant or over think a decision. A warrior when he sees an opportunity he will sometimes go with his gut, and my gut said, ride to Santos, camp, hang out with your excellent team mates, ride some more, drink, eat, pump track, Camp, fire, wife, great tent fun, watch the race, shred the singletrack with said wife, banquet, top it off the biggest moon in 400 years; IM IN!
Over the past couple of years I have worked hard. So mapping and cue sheet creating was a breeze. Had maps and back up maps. Got my bike all packed and set the day before. It was heavy, probably too heavy, but I am a first timer.
I was never concerned about my legs. I am not fast, I don't think, but I can ride for a long time, very long, like several days I think. The cold didn't worry me too much, I know the way to beat the cold is through technology. My bike the Salsa Mamasita, aka the Black Beauty, is a real thoroughbred and has NEVER let me down in a race or a ride. In fact my only concerns were Hunters and Bears; in that order.
To defend myself from the bears I was going to use a very eco friendly technique of playing my blue tooth stereo music as loud as possible. Not only did I have the sound to scare him off, but I had evil blue tooth death rays irradiating from my bicycle.
For Humans I had to get more creative. I would like to get a small pistol and a concealed weapons permit for protection, but for now, I had a ninja knife that fit very creatively on my hip belt in a very inconspicuous fashion. It was not meant to be used as a threat but more like a close quarters weapon. I also had Mace which works on all beast, and I also had my intellect, I had a story.
I figure I had enough gear and I was packed up tight enough that I looked pretty official. So my plan, if I encountered any rowdy types, was to go immediately into an aggressive authoritative stature and spout about how I am a Wildlife Officer on a routine nighttime environmental impact survey. Then Flip it on them and ask for I.D. and what they are doing here, and mention casually that I have a GPS locator Beacon that once activated will have law enforcement in the area within minutes stopping any and all vehicles.
I think it would have worked, I am a pretty good actor. I think way too much, Anyhow...
The ride started 1 hours and 20 min late. I had agreed with myself for Laughs to video blog some of it. I was going to have to send it to the bird and she would have to add it. But SP led me in the direction of using my Iphony to do it myself. We tested it and it worked. I made the first clip. And I thought it was pretty funny.
I took off, settled in, I knew I was going to be on the bike for a long time. Had to do a stop here and a stop there and get this and that always happens when you start a long trip. Anyhow I was settled in, using the Aero Bars, listening to music. All is going good, I jam on down the road and eventually after being passed like 100 times I was tired of hearing cars go by and I was yearning to make the trail before dark. I made it, decided to take a break, update my GPS coordinates and eat a little bit. I had only eaten once that day, I started the day way light on calories, anyhow, met Jim Savage.
Jim is from Colorado. He was a park ranger out there. I guess for winter he comes to work at Clearwater Lake in Paisley. We chatted. He asked me about my destination, I told him, he asked me where I was sleeping, I said a campground and he left. I ate some jerky, one bar and a half a bar of chocolate. Drank some of my ice coffee and then rolled out.
Paisley was SooOoo Nice, I was having so much fun. The bike felt similar to how it felt when I rode it threw Pisgah forest. So I was fine with the handling of it and learned to finesse the bike. I was doing climbs and descents working hard and using the Momentum to keep the bike going. Eventually it began to get dark and as the sun was setting on my west, the moon was rising on the east. I am so fortunate to experience such blessed experiences. It was awesome to watch the night and the day change positions like guards at a palace.
The Moon was extraordinarily large. Which Later I learned, Sandpine told me, it was the closest the moon had been to the Earth in like 400 years. For a second inside the Paisley trail I thought I was getting lost. But then I remembered, the moon is on my right, if I was going back toward the trail head , it would be on my left, and kept on riding.
Made it to Alexander Springs, sat out front, ate a little bit and did another video and gps update. At that point it was dark, the moon was climbing and I still had just a wool jersey, baggy shorts and my bibs. I kept going, I wanted to force acclimation and make my body accept the cold, I turned into Billy Bay Wilderness and I felt what they mean when they say Cold Snap. I hit a pocket of cold air that had to be 10 degrees cooler then what I was in before. I immediately stopped and layered down.
Got going, Billy Bay was lovely, but it got Sandy. I know how to ride that stuff, I made it out, and updated again. I got lost for a minute when I went straight and discovered that Camp Ocala was private land. I had my first human encounter. When she asked me what I was doing on her property I simply blinded her with my light and asked for water. She pointed me to a fountain and I reloaded and headed back. Once at the road I realized where I needed to go and took off down SR 19, Aerotard time!
Got going on 595 and it was the cat's meow. Perfect dirt road for 25 plus miles. Easy to follow, I passed Farles lake camp, saw hunters and kept going. No problems kept pedaling, had some ups and downs, pretty sweet. Stopped ate some food, and pressed on.
At one point I saw a flicker of light in the road, and noticed it was humans. I had been riding with my lights off to conserve, so I went a head and light myself up. I didn't want to startle someone that may have been holding a gun. When approaching I noticed two vehicles with three men in there late teens or early twenties. It appeared they were looking for something. I kept going and put the hammer down to put some distance between myself and them.
After some more miles I saw another light in the road. A very bright one, turns out some people, men and women were having a Bon fire in the middle of the forest road. I counted 15 people, Late Teens early twenties, both men and women, This seemed like a more rowdy bunch. Regardless, I light myself up and rolled right threw the middle of their party. They jeered at me and said silly things, but I just kept the pedal power down and my mouth shut.
Eventually I decided to turn around and look and low and behold, I saw headlights. I got a little worried and waited to see if they were moving. At a distance its hard to tell if lights are moving. Instinctively I put the pedal power down. I kept checking and sure enough they were coming. I waited till I saw a good side trail and rode down into it and stopped parked my bike and took a seat. I just didn't feel comfortable letting someone ride up behind me on this stretch of back country road. So strategically my best strategy was avoidance. So I parked, ate a snack did the math, I was starting to think about going to bed, I was getting sleepy had been up at it since 5am.
Waited after they passed and then got up and took off again. Came across another truck coming towards me. I was OK with this scenario cause I can avoid confrontations better from this standpoint. They passed without incident and eventually I made the road. I really celebrated this point in the ride. I only had like ten more miles to go so I was feeling really happy. I took a moment to update the GPS location and make a video. I got on the road, thinking ya, I got some roadie miles till I am done, no more dirt no more crazies.
Turn on to NW 24th st and it turns out to be a limestone road littered with pot holes. Normally, I would be totally stoked about something like this, but instead I was like thinking about going to bed. EVERY two trees I saw about 12 to 26 feet apart looked like the perfect spot to sleep. But then I remembered my goal and my desire to sleep by the river. That was like the whole reward for the first days effort.
Made it down the road with out incident and made it to the bridge without incident, found it Lit up Bright with a huge street light. PERFECT. I scouted the Camping spot and set up my hammock. Easy, it all went easy. I went straight to bed.
Overnight I had to adjust. I put my socks back on, put a shirt back on, but eventually I got some really good sleep. Heck I slept in till about 11am. I figured, I am going to wait out the morning cold in the tent. I had cell signal the whole time so I got several calls and text messages. I let everyone know that I had made it threw the night safe and sound.
The next Morning I got up and rolled out to Santos. Ate breakfast by the river, updated the blog and rolled out. Everything was going great, when I came across a park a short distance from where I had camped. This park has potable water and toilets and its not even 1 mile away from where I camped. AND it has a trail that will get you 5 miles closer to Santos without having to ride on the road. I found that last part out today. On Saturday morning I had an inkling and idea but I was unsure to try it, didn't want to poach a trail and get in trouble.
Eventually I made it to Santos. The road was very rolling with ups and downs, but I enjoyed it I don't think I did any climb that day or the one before sitting down, even on the dirt roads I stood and climbed. I just wanted to work it..LOL. Did a victory lap around Santos and hit the campground where I found my team mates.
The ride was done and I thought it was easy. Piece of cake is how I put it.
Tomorrow I finish the Santos portion of the DLT.
Enjoy
Laters,
LOS
Monday, December 15, 2008
MoAnDaY!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
DiRtY LiL ToUr: SuCcEss!
Thats all folks, time to shred some single and pump track at Santos. Thanks to Paloma for all your guidance, nutrition and moral/spiritual support. Thanks to everyone for their positive vibes and well wishes, AND thanks Marcel for the assistance and updates u rock Sir!
DiRtY LiL TouR day 2 vid 1
video footage of camp finally waking up and packing up really needed the rest did 67 miles yesterday and lots of it was the dirty kind!
Friday, December 12, 2008
D L t 4
billy bay wilderness is done. estimate 30 miles to camp. heading into the thick of it. updates may come late.
BLaCK On BLacK
Here is the ride, set up to not only get me there and carry my gear, but entertain me as well.
Tent, Sleeping bag on front. All my clothes for 2 days in back. Pump crudely rigged in the middle for a just in case.
Stella for fill in light, Mini newt on helmet for directional light, and tiny sigma led for map reading or extra visibility in flash mode while on roads. GPS will be attached to the top tube above the Pump.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Tent, Sleeping bag on front. All my clothes for 2 days in back. Pump crudely rigged in the middle for a just in case.
Stella for fill in light, Mini newt on helmet for directional light, and tiny sigma led for map reading or extra visibility in flash mode while on roads. GPS will be attached to the top tube above the Pump.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Thursday, December 11, 2008
MeNu....
Attention tortured readers forced to read this blog.
If you care, this is the calories I will take on the trip.
If you care not, Ok, thats fine.
First lets start with a little math.
I expect 10 hours of total ride time.
300 calories an hour for ten hours is 3000 calories.
Easy right. Even though I think my current set up is not light. Its lighter than panniers any day of the week and its nimble.
My house will be on the front of the bike, in my handlebar bag, Henessey Hammock and sleeping bag.
My clothing and toiletries jammed pack in my rear pack.
My food and water on my back, just in case, if anything happens, that BD2 and I are partners for life. I did not get a water filter in time, but I have scouted several water holes, plus I have a number. That's right a number, whats yours?
What is the number. Its the number of miles you can ride without a drink.
Me, in Florida at night with a full moon and a chill, thats 30 miles.
Whats your number?
Anyhow, I have Paisley, Alexander springs campground, Buck Lake, Farles Lake, some houses on Sharpes Ferry road and a guard house close to my "Campground", as spots with access to drinking water. Regardless, I will be prepared for the "unexpected".
Here is what I got for food:
300 calories
2560 calories
1040 calories
880
920
Mathemagic that all together = 5700
Ya, I am gonna have left overs.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
If you care, this is the calories I will take on the trip.
If you care not, Ok, thats fine.
First lets start with a little math.
I expect 10 hours of total ride time.
300 calories an hour for ten hours is 3000 calories.
Easy right. Even though I think my current set up is not light. Its lighter than panniers any day of the week and its nimble.
My house will be on the front of the bike, in my handlebar bag, Henessey Hammock and sleeping bag.
My clothing and toiletries jammed pack in my rear pack.
My food and water on my back, just in case, if anything happens, that BD2 and I are partners for life. I did not get a water filter in time, but I have scouted several water holes, plus I have a number. That's right a number, whats yours?
What is the number. Its the number of miles you can ride without a drink.
Me, in Florida at night with a full moon and a chill, thats 30 miles.
Whats your number?
Anyhow, I have Paisley, Alexander springs campground, Buck Lake, Farles Lake, some houses on Sharpes Ferry road and a guard house close to my "Campground", as spots with access to drinking water. Regardless, I will be prepared for the "unexpected".
Here is what I got for food:
300 calories
2560 calories
1040 calories
880
920Mathemagic that all together = 5700
Ya, I am gonna have left overs.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
ThE BeSt iN ThE WoRLd
Actual Transcript of a conversation between me and my wife:
NK: "Babe I am scared", "All these people talking got me spooked about riding threw the forest"..."I already got a small fear of riding trails alone at night, I tend to spook myself out sometimes...". "My concern is some humans, drunk, thinking it would be fun, to mess with some guy on a Friday night."
WP: "Babe, you cant let fear into your heart. You are strong, intelligent and prepared. You have trained hard and are very resourceful. The universe will watch over you, the spirits will guide you and protect you... you will be fine."
NK: Sits there and contemplates what was just told to him...
"your right babe, I have the vision now, I can see the success that I will have on this trip, I can see me conquering and doing what must be done, thank you, I love you"
Ladies and Gentleman, this is what its like to have the best wife in the world.
I fear no more. I have seen in my minds eye the accomplishments of a safe, fun, trouble free journey. I will be protected, the Universe will look out for me and my spirits will watch over me.
Amen.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
NK: "Babe I am scared", "All these people talking got me spooked about riding threw the forest"..."I already got a small fear of riding trails alone at night, I tend to spook myself out sometimes...". "My concern is some humans, drunk, thinking it would be fun, to mess with some guy on a Friday night."
WP: "Babe, you cant let fear into your heart. You are strong, intelligent and prepared. You have trained hard and are very resourceful. The universe will watch over you, the spirits will guide you and protect you... you will be fine."
NK: Sits there and contemplates what was just told to him...
"your right babe, I have the vision now, I can see the success that I will have on this trip, I can see me conquering and doing what must be done, thank you, I love you"
Ladies and Gentleman, this is what its like to have the best wife in the world.
I fear no more. I have seen in my minds eye the accomplishments of a safe, fun, trouble free journey. I will be protected, the Universe will look out for me and my spirits will watch over me.
Amen.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
AeRoTaRd
Why 29.
Well, I like cross.
I like cross. Cause I like the big wheel and the big gear.
I like MTB.
I like to ride banks on a speedy downhill and then later, pedal hard up the mountain as well. Simply put I want my bike to flick like a bic.
So naturally, I tried 29 and knew that's what I wanted.
That being said, you can officially call me an aerotard if you want, I slapped some aero bars on my mamasita to set it up for the long flat stretches of road, maybe gain some time. I have no rush, but I have no patience to go slow sometimes, only sometimes.
Geek.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
Well, I like cross.
I like cross. Cause I like the big wheel and the big gear.
I like MTB.
I like to ride banks on a speedy downhill and then later, pedal hard up the mountain as well. Simply put I want my bike to flick like a bic.
So naturally, I tried 29 and knew that's what I wanted.
That being said, you can officially call me an aerotard if you want, I slapped some aero bars on my mamasita to set it up for the long flat stretches of road, maybe gain some time. I have no rush, but I have no patience to go slow sometimes, only sometimes.
Geek.
Enjoy,
Laters,
LOS
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