2008 Convention Bicycle Ride

Ok, last year we talked about it, this year we are going to do it. I am thinking a ride on the Cherohala. It can be all of it or some of it, doesn't matter to me. Or we can ride somewhere else. If we do ride the cherohala it may be wise to have a couple of motorcycle escorts to keep those "crazy" sportbikers from running over us:lol So, my suggestions are do it early in the week while there is still some energy in us, lol. Also, the roads will be pretty quiet on the weekdays. The pace will be really easy, just a fun ride. No Tour De France Crap here. No dropping anyone. Ok, so who is in? So far: Gawarrior Solidus Paytheon Spydr1 JPwarrior Para-327th support vehicle

BTW, this gives everyone enough time to get in shape and ready to ride!

er ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh ............ I THINK I can I THINK I can!!!!!!!!!!

er ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh ............ I THINK I can I THINK I can!!!!!!!!!! Good, adding you to the list too. You and Plimmer better start finding a bike!

er ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh ............ I THINK I can I THINK I can!!!!!!!!!! Good, adding you to the list too. You and Plimmer better start finding a bike! We've already got bikes, motor bikes.....:hammer::hammer:

We've already got bikes, motor bikes.....:hammer::hammer: yeah, that is why you are huffing and puffing all the time on your "motor"bike:hammer::hammer:

I'll escort if you want.

Thanks Dan!!

yeah, that is why you are huffing and puffing all the time on your "motor"bike:hammer::hammer: :flex::lol:lol I'll escort if you want. I think they need someone from team no lean. Bogie might be able to just stay ahead of them :lol:lol:lol

:flex::lol:lol I think they need someone from team no lean. Bogie might be able to just stay ahead of them :lol:lol:lol I don't know what this "they" crap is. You better be getting your ass a road bike really soon and joining us:fact

I don't know what this "they" crap is. You better be getting your ass a road bike really soon and joining us:fact OK, I'll see what I can do.....:lol:lol:lol

OK, I'll see what I can do.....:lol:lol Wise decision:lol

Thanks Dan!! No problem Chad. Just let me know what day. I promised the Vmax to Brian (Bogie) as he may want, but I could use it in chase vehicle for sure. Heck, I bet we could get him to run headlights on that pimp R1 of his. Man... this is going to be one bangin' Convention!

He's a bossy sum bitch lately Rob... lol :fact

To much riding for me.

To much riding for me. :iamwithst That's what they invented motors for!!! :lol :lol

When you planning on doing this Chad? If you set the schedule up "Just Right", and do it in September (after my leadership course in Alabama), I can bring my bike and participate. I will head home to Oregon right after I spank your arses. But if you must do it earlier that's OK too.

When you planning on doing this Chad? If you set the schedule up "Just Right", and do it in September (after my leadership course in Alabama), I can bring my bike and participate. I will head home to Oregon right after I spank your arses. But if you must do it earlier that's OK too. It is during the convention James. If you want to hook up in September I am game though.:thumbup

I think the Convention will be over in June. :secret:

It is during the convention James. If you want to hook up in September I am game though.:thumbup Oh, ok. I will bring my bike then.

Oh, ok. I will bring my bike then. Very cool!

how many miles? dirt or street? Sounds like fun, If I have room I`ll throw my bike in the truck

It will be street. Miles...whatever we all decide on. I was wanting to do part or all of the cherohala skyway. Glad you are joining us!!!

I'd say the first uphill section of the Skyway and then turn around. Depends. Are you planning to ride starting at Fontana, or over near the Skyway?

over near the skyway is what I was thinking.

That sounds decent. We can get the bikes/riders there with a trailer/suv, and run as much of the Skyway as you want. I've only done the Skyway a couple of times, but I'm hoping to do a recon mission in April. I can scout things out.

if i end up going to the convention i'll definitely bring my bicycle and join y'all, that is, if you dont mind me riding a time trial bike (i do group rides w/ all the roadies here so i never use the aero bars when in groups), but i know that some people do just hate ppl w/ tt bikes.

if i end up going to the convention i'll definitely bring my bicycle and join y'all, that is, if you dont mind me riding a time trial bike (i do group rides w/ all the roadies here so i never use the aero bars when in groups), but i know that some people do just hate ppl w/ tt bikes. very cool! Don't mind at all. I would like to have a TT bike myself. and heck, by the looks of it may just be the two of us right now. hahaha Now, just make sure you get your butt to the convention!

very cool! Don't mind at all. I would like to have a TT bike myself. and heck, by the looks of it may just be the two of us right now. hahaha Now, just make sure you get your butt to the convention! its lookin like i just might make it to the convention!

Would be interested in this too if I could get some help with the TREK... Coming from Charlotte area. http://www.r1-forum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3357268#post3357268

I can probably run people and bikes up there and run a chase vehicle if needed. I'll need to get a PA installed in the truck so I can make comments like the BUDs instructors do, maybe crank a little "Eye of the Tiger" to keep everyone motivated.:flex:

hahaha. that would be cool! Hopefully we will get some more to commit to this. we could really make it a good ride.

Would be interested in this too if I could get some help with the TREK... Coming from Charlotte area. www.r1-forum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3357268#post3357268 (http://www.r1-forum.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3357268#post3357268) As I said in your thread... contact GDP270 as he lives in Greenville just like you do. :fact

I'm down for this.

Ok, now we are talking. this is going to be a fun ride! no stress and ride your own pace and us all stay together. We can get Para to have us some food and drinks and make designated stops every x amount of miles.

How far are you guys riding?

How far are you guys riding? don't know...I guess what we all decide on. I would like to do at least 30-60 mile ride....especially if we have a support vehicle.

don't know...I guess what we all decide on. I would like to do at least 30-60 mile ride....especially if we have a support vehicle. 47 and some change here. Motorcycle in the front, and truck chasing. Summary: 47.7 miles (1 hour, 5 minutes) 6:00 0.0 Depart Fontana Village on SR-28 [Fontana Rd] (West) 12.4 mi 6:14 12.4 Turn RIGHT (West) onto SR-143 [Sweetwater Rd] 8.8 mi 6:29 21.2 Turn RIGHT (North) onto US-129 [SR-143] 0.2 mi 6:30 21.4 At Robbinsville, stay on US-129 [SR-143] (North-West) 5.6 mi 6:36 27.0 Turn LEFT (South) onto Thunder Mountain Rd 0.3 mi 6:38 27.3 Bear RIGHT (West) onto Dine Ridge Rd 0.2 mi 6:39 27.5 Turn RIGHT (North) onto Local road(s) 87 yds 6:39 27.5 At Santeetlah, return South on Local road(s) 87 yds 6:39 27.6 Turn LEFT (East) onto Dine Ridge Rd 0.2 mi 6:40 27.8 Bear LEFT (North) onto Thunder Mountain Rd 0.3 mi 6:41 28.1 Turn LEFT (West) onto US-129 [Tapoco Rd] 12.0 mi 6:56 40.0 Turn RIGHT (East) onto SR-28 7.6 mi 7:05 47.7 Arrive Fontana Village SUMMARY Driving distance: 47.7 miles

Looks good to me! ok with you others??

Looks good to me! ok with you others?? looks great!

47 and some change here. Motorcycle in the front, and truck chasing. Summary: 47.7 miles (1 hour, 5 minutes) 6:00 0.0 Depart Fontana Village on SR-28 [Fontana Rd] (West) 12.4 mi 6:14 12.4 Turn RIGHT (West) onto SR-143 [Sweetwater Rd] 8.8 mi 6:29 21.2 Turn RIGHT (North) onto US-129 [SR-143] 0.2 mi 6:30 21.4 At Robbinsville, stay on US-129 [SR-143] (North-West) 5.6 mi 6:36 27.0 Turn LEFT (South) onto Thunder Mountain Rd 0.3 mi 6:38 27.3 Bear RIGHT (West) onto Dine Ridge Rd 0.2 mi 6:39 27.5 Turn RIGHT (North) onto Local road(s) 87 yds 6:39 27.5 At Santeetlah, return South on Local road(s) 87 yds 6:39 27.6 Turn LEFT (East) onto Dine Ridge Rd 0.2 mi 6:40 27.8 Bear LEFT (North) onto Thunder Mountain Rd 0.3 mi 6:41 28.1 Turn LEFT (West) onto US-129 [Tapoco Rd] 12.0 mi 6:56 40.0 Turn RIGHT (East) onto SR-28 7.6 mi 7:05 47.7 Arrive Fontana Village SUMMARY Driving distance: 47.7 miles Looks like a nice ride.

so you going to join us?

so you going to join us? Probably not.

We can get Para to have us some food and drinks and make designated stops every x amount of miles. That's a little more responsibility than I am used to. :hammer: I just hope I don't grab the wrong cooler and you all have to drink iced vodka on your peddle pushing jaunt. :scared

That's a little more responsibility than I am used to. :hammer: I just hope I don't grab the wrong cooler and you all have to drink iced vodka on your peddle pushing jaunt. :scared That's one of the nice things about the route I posted. I was trying to find a route through the Cherohala, but the loop will get us back to Fontana, and going through Robbinsville gives us service stations, restrooms, stores etc. Once we get on 129 we'll have open road for the cyclists, and the terrain should be progressive, scenic, and still challenging. But the route is ultimately up to the cyclists. I'm just coming along for the ride on the 600 lb Vmax. I'll be chillin' :epimp. Nice of you to volunteer to chase, Para. We are going to have to have a cold one, or many! :thumbup

yeah, to do the cherohala on bikes would have probably been a pretty big feat to pull off unless you had a bunch of seasoned bikers. lol. this route is a good one IMO.

The route Dan posted pretty much looks like the Robbinsville Loop. There are some pretty big inclines to battle on 143 just out of Robbinsville heading back to Fontana. Look like a fun workout though.

heck yeah! better get in shape! but with big inclines always comes big decents too, whaaahhoo!!!

What day are you guys doing this?

What day are you guys doing this? don't know...maybe monday or tuesday I am thinking, but I am open to whatever.

don't know...maybe monday or tuesday I am thinking, but I am open to whatever. Earlier the better. Randy was right, there are a couple of good inclines either direction. The direction I plotted will start you off going uphill, and coming down 143 into Robbinsville. Then it's 129 with some mild elevation changes to the Fugitive Dam, and up the hills to the CROT, to 28. Which are all frequently used motorcycle routes. But you call it. I'm just going for the fun of it.

don't know...maybe monday or tuesday I am thinking, but I am open to whatever. :thumbup

Earlier the better. Randy was right, there are a couple of good inclines either direction. The direction I plotted will start you off going uphill, and coming down 143 into Robbinsville. Then it's 129 with some mild elevation changes to the Fugitive Dam, and up the hills to the CROT, to 28. Which are all frequently used motorcycle routes. But you call it. I'm just going for the fun of it. I like the route you have because we can leave out of fontana and end up back there too and ride good roads. And that is also the direction I was thinking to go too. It is mostly downhill from the crossroads down to the river...then back up hill a bit to fontana so that is good. and yes, we should leave pretty early in the a.m. too

I like the route you have because we can leave out of fontana and end up back there too and ride good roads. And that is also the direction I was thinking to go too. It is mostly downhill from the crossroads down to the river...then back up hill a bit to fontana so that is good. and yes, we should leave pretty early in the a.m. too I'm game for anything bro... as long as everyone gets to have a good time. I'm trying to squeeze a trip before the Convention, but my business trips are rolling in now, and I'm going to be pressed for time.

I like the route. Getting in shape tomorrow....:sneaky

awesome!

Someone say bike ride? Easy ride yeah right. I may have to get mine off the hook and do some secret training.

Someone say bike ride? Easy ride yeah right. I may have to get mine off the hook and do some secret training. Now that is what I am talking about Hershell!!! So, you coming?? I went for a bike ride today, I can tell I am not in the normal groove so gonna have to start hitting it more now with longer days.

With my new job I never know when Im going to be in the country. Its hard to make any plans. I been riding some trying to get back in shape for those enduros

With my new job I never know when Im going to be in the country. Its hard to make any plans. I been riding some trying to get back in shape for those enduros very cool! we gotta get together soon. you have road bicycle?

very cool! we gotta get together soon. you have road bicycle? Yeah we need to go ride dirt sometime soon. I got a Moots road bike that I throw my leg over sometimes.

Yeah we need to go ride dirt sometime soon. I got a Moots road bike that I throw my leg over sometimes. very cool! yes, dirt is indeed a must do soon. just name the time and place and me and rob will try and join you.:)

i just did a 20 mile ride yesterday in some HELLACIOUS wind. it was the closest i've ever come to puking while cycling lol. i'll definitely be ready for the convention!!!!

i just did a 20 mile ride yesterday in some HELLACIOUS wind. it was the closest i've ever come to puking while cycling lol. i'll definitely be ready for the convention!!!! lol cool!! I am going to the gym tonight and goind a group ride on the stationary bike class. I did it last week, it was pretty good. I need to get back out on the real bike on the real road soon though. gym is cool but still doesn't really substitute for the real thing.

lol cool!! I am going to the gym tonight and goind a group ride on the stationary bike class. I did it last week, it was pretty good. I need to get back out on the real bike on the real road soon though. gym is cool but still doesn't really substitute for the real thing. i concur. i rode on my trainer during the winter and coming back to the road is a ton different. our local bike shop just started its group rides back up and i'm itching to get back in shape to keep up with them. hopefully ill be able to pull a good deal during the convention group ride. off topic: do you cyclists find it funny when ppl complain how uncomfortable motorcycle seats are?? when i show ppl my bicycle seat their response is usually "FUUUUUUKC that" lol. 6 hrs of pedaling on a stiff cycling seat is something to complain about, not 3 hrs on a luxurious padded R1 seat lol.

ps this is the seat i have on my tri bike: http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31lKb2zjYAL._AA280_.jpg

i concur. i rode on my trainer during the winter and coming back to the road is a ton different. our local bike shop just started its group rides back up and i'm itching to get back in shape to keep up with them. hopefully ill be able to pull a good deal during the convention group ride. off topic: do you cyclists find it funny when ppl complain how uncomfortable motorcycle seats are?? when i show ppl my bicycle seat their response is usually "FUUUUUUKC that" lol. 6 hrs of pedaling on a stiff cycling seat is something to complain about, not 3 hrs on a luxurious padded R1 seat lol. I am going to start doing some sprint rides with the local bike shop too next week. They do laps around the outside of atlanta motor speedway and you sprint as long as you can until you get left, then you wait until they come around again and sprint as long as you can again. they say some pretty fast pros come out there. on the bike seat thing, hahahahaha. I completely feel you on that one! hahahaha

I am going to start doing some sprint rides with the local bike shop too next week. They do laps around the outside of atlanta motor speedway and you sprint as long as you can until you get left, then you wait until they come around again and sprint as long as you can again. they say some pretty fast pros come out there. on the bike seat thing, hahahahaha. I completely feel you on that one! hahahaha that sounds like an intense ride! around here we do the same 32 mile "loop". we do about a 5 mile warmup, then the 23 mile group ride at about a 22mph pace and then a 4-6 mile cool down or so. most of the guys there are seasoned riders about 30-45 with nice ass bikes.

that sounds like an intense ride! around here we do the same 32 mile "loop". we do about a 5 mile warmup, then the 23 mile group ride at about a 22mph pace and then a 4-6 mile cool down or so. most of the guys there are seasoned riders about 30-45 with nice ass bikes. That sounds like a great ride too! I have been riding alone mostly and I am getting tired of it. Part of the reason I joined the gym. I normally do about a 15-22 mile loop at about 20 mph pace. Looking forward to getting out with some other folks on the road.

I`m lost, I only ride dirt lol I`d like to trade in my current ride: http://cyclex.com/images/library/site/spec_rockhop_a1compfs_red_02_m.jpg for something like this: http://www.tradenote.net/images/users/000/444/395/products_images/707689.jpg

I'll be hitting up the bike tomorrow morning for a good 20 mile run. I love the workout on the legs.

skeeter, get a road bike and join us!

Anything on a time and date on this?

I was thinking monday or tuesday. I also looked at another route that looks really cool. You turn at Tuskeegee adn I think it is yellow bridge road or something. It comes out on 129 as well. anyway, I know I am bringing my road bike even if no one else does...but I really hope some of you guys actually follow though on this. lol

I am still going to bring my trek, but the way some of you are talking I may only use it in the campground to get around... 47 miles... :scared The most I have ever done is 20:cryin

I am still going to bring my trek, but the way some of you are talking I may only use it in the campground to get around... 47 miles... :scared The most I have ever done is 20:cryin lol. well I found another loop that cuts some of the miles off. It is like 37 miles. and on a much less crowded road too.

i found an elevation chart of the previously mentioned route and it doesn't look too bad, mostly downhill...

i found an elevation chart of the previously mentioned route and it doesn't look too bad, mostly downhill... I like that a lot! lol

I like that a lot! lol That's why I had mapped it in that direction. Now next year when everyone catches on and needs more of a challenge you could go counter clockwise and it would be almost all uphill :lol

That's why I had mapped it in that direction. Now next year when everyone catches on and needs more of a challenge you could go counter clockwise and it would be almost all uphill :lol Next year we can do the cherohala challenge, lol. it does the cherohala skyway and deal's gap in one loop. :)

Next year we can do the cherohala challenge, lol. it does the cherohala skyway and deal's gap in one loop. :) I'll run headlights on the Vmax again :lol

I would love to do this but I can't think of a way to mount my bicycle rack on the R1! Damnit!

just strap it to your back....bikes are not that heavy, lol

just strap it to your back....bikes are not that heavy, lol I would but the speed hump on the new jacket plus the backpack I will already be wearing might make it to hard. I was thinking about building a mount from where my frame sliders are off to the right side and make it a "side bike" like a side car. Only problem was I could not get the suspension right....the rigid frame made it impossible to make a right hand turn. It would have taken much longer to get there only being able to turn left :dundun:

just mount it to your helmet, lol

Anyone decide what time everyone is meeting up for this or will it be decided over many drinks the night before? "Who suggested 5:00 AM, I am on vacation". :drunk::lol With all the :moto: ing I have to keep up with in the main convention thread, I am too lazy to look through all the posts here.

I can promise you it won't be 5 am....if it is I won't be going, lol. we'll probably decide the night before I am guessing.

:riding:riding:riding I wanna go!

:riding:riding:riding I wanna go! I'll be on the Vmax and Para-327th was saying he was going to chase with a truck.

I'll be on the Vmax and Para-327th was saying he was going to chase with a truck. Yep, I'll be a cager on this particular ride.

:riding:riding:riding I wanna go! get you a bicycle and join us?

get you a bicycle and join us? That's true too. We are talking about the most energetic person at the Convention. :fact :lol

Sooo...I went bike shopping today and they just didn't GET me at the bike shop. Argh. I gotta go back tomorrow. You shoulda seen the bikes they proposed. As if. They were totally girl bikes. Pathetic. I'm luck to know the front of a motorcycle from the back, but I'm damn picky about my bicycles. Preferably they are thirty years old and suitable for teenage boys. The bikes, I mean. I like the 20". I've wanted one for a while anyway, to use as a pit bike. Vroom vroom... Anyway I didn't have much luck. But I'm working on it. I rrreally want to go...on two wheels! For once! I'm SO gonna smoke Chad at every chance...:lol

Sooo...I went bike shopping today and they just didn't GET me at the bike shop. Argh. I gotta go back tomorrow. You shoulda seen the bikes they proposed. As if. They were totally girl bikes. Pathetic. I'm luck to know the front of a motorcycle from the back, but I'm damn picky about my bicycles. Preferably they are thirty years old and suitable for teenage boys. The bikes, I mean. I like the 20". I've wanted one for a while anyway, to use as a pit bike. Vroom vroom... Anyway I didn't have much luck. But I'm working on it. I rrreally want to go...on two wheels! For once! I'm SO gonna smoke Chad at every chance...:lol oh, you are not trash talking!!! well, I seem to have a target on my back...everyone after me.....you know what I say to that????????????? BRING IT!! hahaha so, you better get to that bike store or any bike store and pic up something...here is my ride and I am ready to go:rock

oh, you are not trash talking!!! well, I seem to have a target on my back...everyone after me.....you know what I say to that????????????? BRING IT!! hahaha so, you better get to that bike store or any bike store and pic up something...here is my ride and I am ready to go:rock Holy smokes! You even go all out on road bike! :yesnod Nice... we gonna have to talk about that book I mentioned. Have to see if I have a copy around.

Holy smokes! You even go all out on road bike! :yesnod Nice... we gonna have to talk about that book I mentioned. Have to see if I have a copy around. I am kind of that way with a lot of things, :lol So laura, while you are bike shopping tomorrow I think I will go for one more ride before the convention:D

Have you ever been beaten by a girl before?? Should we keep some kleenex on hand or will you be cool with it when I show you up? On my kiddie bike? I just wanna be prepared...:lol

Have you ever been beaten by a girl before?? Should we keep some kleenex on hand or will you be cool with it when I show you up? On my kiddie bike? I just wanna be prepared...:lol Whenever you want, we'll just hit the gas and slaughter these two wheeler, peddle pushing, tree huggin' guys, then we can take in a movie , some popcorn, a little :makeout or something ... just saying, whacking these guys could be good for our future. .... :rock :lol:lol

Whenever you want, we'll just hit the gas and slaughter these two wheeler, peddle pushing, tree huggin' guys, then we can take in a movie , some popcorn, a little :makeout or something ... just saying, whacking these guys could be good for our future. .... :rock :lol:lol Nah man... two of my favorite people. Maybe we can crush the rest of them :lol But Gawarrior and Snapz get anything they want. :lol

Have you ever been beaten by a girl before?? Should we keep some kleenex on hand or will you be cool with it when I show you up? On my kiddie bike? I just wanna be prepared...:lol let's see.....nope not to date...and don't plan on it happening anytime soon either...i am not ashamed to beat a girl, and talk smack about it either. haha. Do you want me to carry an extra water bottle or two for you...you may need it:lol:lol

Have fun and be safe guys!!! :thumbup

let's see.....nope not to date...and don't plan on it happening anytime soon either...i am not ashamed to beat a girl, and talk smack about it either. haha. Do you want me to carry an extra water bottle or two for you...you may need it:lol:lol To put out the flames when my tires catch on FIRE, maybe...:flex:

When is this crazy bicycle race -- er, uh -- ride anyway? Monday or Tuesday? Did I miss that info? I'm coming in on Monday afternoon I think...

Apparently this "little" bicycle ride kicked peoples ass!

Holy smokes! You even go all out on road bike! :yesnod Nice... we gonna have to talk about that book I mentioned. Have to see if I have a copy around. Book? Hope ya'll are having fun!

Some of you have asked me about how the Bicycle Ride went so here is my ?Official? report? We started the morning prepping the bikes and heading out of Fontana around 8:30. It was a cool morning and promised to be a beautiful day. DanQ ran out front on the VMax followed closely by Chad and myself with Snapz taking up the rear on her Mongoose! Para-327th ran the chase truck with much needed water, Gatorade and bananas. The first mile out of Fontana Village Chad nearly rear ended Dan because we were going so fast. Imagine leaning into curves going almost 40 mph on tires less than 1? wide. :scared Somewhere after our initial descent, we lost our best looking member to the chase truck, but things ran smoothly for the next 5 miles or so; we were at a gradual climb the whole way and Chad managed to stay 2 or 3 curves in front of me the whole time. We had a good downhill run between mile 6 and 10 when we started to climb what I have dubbed ?Mt. DOOM?. Mt. Doom is a 2,855 ft hill (I use this term loosely) about 1.5 miles from base to peak with an elevation change of over 1,000 ft! It was on this hill that I began cramping and Chad reached a MHR (maximum heart rate) of 189 BPM. :bow We stopped at the top to get some oxygen, hydration, and the world?s best bananas? Bananas taste amazing when you are at this altitude, I don?t know why but it?s true. :dunno The other good thing about being in the stratosphere is the scenery? the view on the way down was awesome, as was the weather the entire trip. We stopped once more and then hit HWY 129! This for me was the best part of the whole ride (besides the bananas :lol). Chad told me to draft him and we were gonna push it hard all the way to the bridge, about 8 miles. We started up 129 and continued to gain speed eventually exceeding 40 mph with my tire just inches from Chad?s. At one point Dan stopped to take a picture of us but misjudged our speed and didn?t even have time to get off the bike before we passed him! There is something amazing about pushing your body to do more and more than you have ever done before and this is what Chad was doing and helping me to do? I think that is what Chad was all about, pushing oneself to excellence.

Shortly after we passed the bridge and began climbing to the CROT, I began to cramp again and could barely walk because my legs were twitching so badly. Chad left me and I waited for the chase truck to come pick me up? My odometer read 29.8 miles :flex Chad meanwhile was still hauling ass up the hill and passed the CROT, by the time we caught up with him he had already finished the downhill section between the CROT and the bridge by the dam. Dan had retrieved him some more bananas and Gatorade to keep up his energy for the last uphill battle to the Hellbender (~1 mile). Thinking back on watching Chad finish that last mile, I think about all the struggles we face in life (including the loss of such a great friend) and how we can overcome those struggles even though it may seem impossible. Chad believed in something greater than himself and knew that with His help he could do all things; even something crazy like a 40 mile bicycle ride through the beautiful mountain countryside of NC. I just wanted to share my experience with you all and leave you with this verse: I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Here is a link to the route we took: Click (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&geocode=7182780397626777767,35.430076,-83.824679%3B9693026435871941994,35.434380,-83.821090%3B3885885768746081644,35.410628,-83.764957%3B9166492613978618367,35.451877,-83.928354&saddr=Shuckstack+Rd+%4035.430076,+-83.824679&daddr=Welch+Rd+%4035.434380,+-83.821090+to:Yellow+Creek+Rd+%4035.410628,+-83.764957+to:US-129+%4035.451877,+-83.928354+to:35.436897,-83.824482&mra=mi&mrcr=2&mrsp=4&sz=14&via=1&sll=35.441862,-83.845081&sspn=0.034124,0.074844&ie=UTF8&ll=35.434939,-83.831177&spn=0.136509,0.299377&z=12) Point B is the top of Mt Doom! Point C is my endpoint and D is Chad's! And here is an elevation guide to our route shown in distance(miles) over elevation(feet):

:thumbup Excellent report!

* forgot to mention we burned something like 4800 calories on the trip and probably lost at least 3 or 4 pounds a piece. :flex: Also thanks to DanQ, Para, and Snapz for helping make this happen...:thumbup We would like to do this again next year but are trying to plan a slightly easier route... I for one can't wait...:fire:rock:flex:

* forgot to mention we burned something like 4800 calories on the trip and probably lost at least 3 or 4 pounds a piece. :flex: Also thanks to DanQ, Para, and Snapz for helping make this happen...:thumbup We would like to do this again next year but are trying to plan a slightly easier route... I for one can't wait...:fire:rock:flex: Maybe some of the Mountain bike peeps would be interested in a off road ride in 09?

Awesome write up. :thumbup

Part V. After getting a banana and Gatorade for Chad, I headed back to teh CROT and 28. When I turned right onto 28 I began to run about 70 MPH to catch up to Chad, who had by now passed two Harley's on the outside (scaring the heck out of them sufficiently). I ran several miles down 28 before it dawned on me that he may have stopped along the way for liquids. I turned around and headed up 28 towards the CROT as fast as I could push the Vmax. When I got to the parking lot I'd asked if anyone saw him and they said he went down 28 flying. So, I took off down 28 as fast as I could again, and a few miles past where I'd previously turned around, I saw Chad peddling at a good pace. I pulled along side him and he was grinning as usual. He said "this is going to hit the spot." We traded a water bottle for Gatorade, and I handed him the banana, which he ate quickly. Then took a drink of the Gatorade and began another nearly 40 mph run. Still grinning. I'd gotten ahead of him far enough to watch traffic and still keep him in sight, and then got off the Vmax on the hill leading to Fontana. Here comes Chad, grinning, and working as hard as he can, saying "I'm going to stop at the gas station." Once he stopped, I said he just finished a 40 mile ride, which he corrected me by saying "it was only 39.83 miles." He got into the back of the truck Para-327th was driving with Snapz and Spydr1. I was amazed the whole way. Chad was pushing himself as hard as any human could hope, and then pushing himself happily further. The whole time he had that big Georgia bred, Chad Clifton grin. The most amazing thing was heading down 129 towards Fugitive Dam. Here, knowing Spydr1 was on a mountain bike and fighting different seating position and gearing, he hooked up in a draft. If you have never watched two people push man powered machines to speeds of about 45 mph working together, you have missed out. I was awe struck watching the two of them come down 129 hooked together. I tried to get photos, but they blew by me before I could even get the camera out. So I went further ahead. This time I got them, and was still completely awe struck. I saw the "Chad grin" because not only was he flying, he had a friend in tow. Watching Chad climb those hills, pushing himself to new limits, and in love with the experience of it all are thoughts that will long come to those of us on that run for years to come. It was inspirational. I hope that we do a bicycle ride again next year, and more can come out and do this. I don't know that we will have the same route, or someone like Chad pushing so very hard, but I think we can learn from a ride like that, and how Chad took it like he did everything else: with all the best of his ability. Drew, Don, and Laura: Thank you for participating and making this come true for Chad. And thanks for telling part of the story. Thank you for this memory that I'll take with me forever, Chad.

Thanks for finishing for me Dan :thumbup

Thanks for finishing for me Dan :thumbup No problem. You did a great writeup on an awesome ride. I hope you'll do it again next year and share it with others. :thumbup

I am in awe of all of these guys, Chad, Drew and Laura pushing that little Mongoose to it's limits. :thumbup :bow Heck, I got tired just driving that far. :crash I am more than happy to do it again, I actually got to sight see which one seldom gets to do when riding the motorcycle in the area. :)

Thanks for the write up !! I am gonna make it up to the convention next year . I will bring my carbon road bike and attempt Mt doom . My training has already begun .

Can't wait for the "GAwarrior Bicycle Ride 2009"!

Thanks for the great stories guys.

I am gonna make it up to the convention next year . I will bring my carbon road bike and attempt Mt doom . My training has already begun . Awesome Brian. :thumbup

We would like to do this again next year but are trying to plan a slightly easier route... I for one can't wait...:fire:rock:flex: In all honesty, I would prefer to see it kept the same route as a tribute to Chad. I've been doing a lot more bicycling this year, and when I make it out to the Gap, I WILL do this route. :fact As long as there's a sag wagon, anyone who doesn't make it can ride in the back.

I think that would be cool as well!

In all honesty, I would prefer to see it kept the same route as a tribute to Chad. I've been doing a lot more bicycling this year, and when I make it out to the Gap, I WILL do this route. :fact As long as there's a sag wagon, anyone who doesn't make it can ride in the back. Could consider that. But I'm here to tell you, even Chad was seriously challenged by this route. I'm just here to help though. We can shoot for the same route. :thumbup

Could consider that. But I'm here to tell you, even Chad was seriously challenged by this route. I'm just here to help though. We can shoot for the same route. :thumbup We can do it. :)

We can do it. :) I am sure we can ! :)

I am sure we can ! :) How's it going Brian?

I am sure we can ! :) :fact What Would Chad Do :flex:

How's it going Brian? Most of the time good . How about you ?

You really wanna do that route? You REALLY wanna do that route? YOU REALLY REALLY want to? I'm all for your enthusiasm, I admire your ambition, and I respect your dedication. But if you really wanna do that route, you might wanna think about attaching an engine to your bike, getting a school bus for your chase truck, or contacting the Olympic cycling team to see if you can tagalong on their training regimen this year. And no fair taking steroids :flex: But I say GO FOR IT!!! 'cause that's what Chad would tell ya ;) But you will need to train seriously for a long amount of time beforehand. Fair warning :fact

It IS a tough route, especially climbing up to the CROT... but if I can be there next year, you guys can follow me all the way! :flex:

I am doing 60 miles on Fri with about 1000 other people :) . I have climbed many a hills but yet to hit the Mtns . But that is gonna change soon .

You really wanna do that route? You REALLY wanna do that route? YOU REALLY REALLY want to? I'm all for your enthusiasm, I admire your ambition, and I respect your dedication. But if you really wanna do that route, you might wanna think about attaching an engine to your bike, getting a school bus for your chase truck, or contacting the Olympic cycling team to see if you can tagalong on their training regimen this year. And no fair taking steroids :flex: But I say GO FOR IT!!! 'cause that's what Chad would tell ya ;) But you will need to train seriously for a long amount of time beforehand. Fair warning :fact I ride quite often, so I ain't skeered. :lol As to wanting to do it, I'm the one who talked about doing a long bike ride years ago there. At first, I was scoffed at like you mentioned. But, once Chad got his road bike, he was all for it. Never made it to the convention yet to be able to do it, and now Chad won't be there to take part in it with me. Sadly, that's one of the very few regrets I have in life. :(

Aaw, fjorn...I'm sorry, buddy. That's tough. But you can be sure of one thing: Chad will be with ya on that ride. No doubt. Did you ever know him to miss out on an opportunity for adventure, or to join his friends for a day in the sun? Or the rain, for that matter?? Naaw, he'll be with ya. Haha, laughing hard as he can when Mt. Doom kicks yer butt!!!

Ya know, I've also wanted to post in here how thankful I was to Dan and Doug for doing such a great job in support of that legendary ride... THANKS GUYS. I've got a few more pics from the day, too. Hard to post individuals while working on the DVD--to many pictures, not enough time!--but this is a promissory note to let you guys see what little I saw of the bicyclists...(most of the time they were just OUT OF SIGHT, pedaling away!)

Doug? You been drinking Laura?

Ya know, I've also wanted to post in here how thankful I was to Dan and Doug for doing such a great job in support of that legendary ride... THANKS GUYS. I've got a few more pics from the day, too. Hard to post individuals while working on the DVD--to many pictures, not enough time!--but this is a promissory note to let you guys see what little I saw of the bicyclists...(most of the time they were just OUT OF SIGHT, pedaling away!) Don't need to thank me. Chad and I agreed to this in Jennings. I just wanted to be sure he got to do it. And you are right. He'll be there whenever the Forum is. :fact

Doug? You been drinking Laura? No love for my man Don :dunno

Aaw, fjorn...I'm sorry, buddy. That's tough. But you can be sure of one thing: Chad will be with ya on that ride. No doubt. Did you ever know him to miss out on an opportunity for adventure, or to join his friends for a day in the sun? Or the rain, for that matter?? Naaw, he'll be with ya. Haha, laughing hard as he can when Mt. Doom kicks yer butt!!! Thanks Laura. :thumbup I know he'll always be there in spirit. :yesnod I was referring to in person. :( As to his laughing with Mt. Doom, he'll be in for a treat. If I can conquer "Mount Mother" and "The Grim Reaper", I can conquer a little hill called "Mt. Doom". :flex: Someone please make sure to have a difribulator and oxygen tanks on hand when I complete the ride. :secret:

Someone please make sure to have a difribulator and oxygen tanks on hand when I complete the ride. :secret: Got it, water, bananas, oxygen tanks and de-fribulator thing a ma bob will be in the chase truck.

Got it, water, bananas, oxygen tanks and de-fribulator thing a ma bob will be in the chase truck. :thumbup Make sure you've got a few aspirin I can chew on the way as well. :lol

Doug? You been drinking Laura? :drunk: A lil but that's no excuse for messing up names ESPECIALLY when you were so RAD that day!!! :blush

:drunk: A lil but that's no excuse for messing up names ESPECIALLY when you were so RAD that day!!! :blush No problem darlin' :thumbup

Um, so, I rode the Mongoose Hoop'D this afternoon? (Stop laughing) And it was loads of fun... (I said quit laughing) A sweet little ride...way easier to hide from my mom than a motorcycle would be...(Ok you can laugh now.) :riding

Laura, you rocked that 'Goose on the Chad Ride more than most of us could. Thanks for being there sister. ~Don

Um, so, I rode the Mongoose Hoop'D this afternoon? (Stop laughing) And it was loads of fun... (I said quit laughing) A sweet little ride...way easier to hide from my mom than a motorcycle would be...(Ok you can laugh now.) :riding You go girl! Sadly, I haven't been able to ride for the past couple of days due to work schedule. But, that'll change next week! :flex:

There's a big hill near my house...but I think I'll wait to climb it until I'm riding something with gears...and functioning brakes! :lol I'm used to that NYCity riding...:cool:

There's a big hill near my house...but I think I'll wait to climb it until I'm riding something with gears...and functioning brakes! :lol I'm used to that NYCity riding...:cool: Brakes? That's what the uphills are for :lol

Laura, you rocked that 'Goose on the Chad Ride more than most of us could. Thanks for being there sister. ~Don Thank YOU Don! :lol You're my only witness! Wait, except for the riders I passed going in the opposite direction on 28...Sigh...that was fun! :flex:

There's a big hill near my house...but I think I'll wait to climb it until I'm riding something with gears...and functioning brakes! :lol I'm used to that NYCity riding...:cool: :lol :lol I just thought of something... I live out on relatively flat ground. I'm going to have to get over to the river valley (25 miles away) to do some hill climbs. By next convention, I'll be up to about 50+ miles a day I'm thinking. :flex:

Atta boy! You might make that route after all fjorn. :yesnod :riding

Atta boy! You might make that route after all fjorn. :yesnod :riding I told you I would! :fact Now, to get you on a real bike so you can do it too!

:lol Who wants to stowaway a CB1 from my mom while I learn how to ride it?!? :lol Actually, my buddy Jim in Atlanta has a decent mountain bike that he's willing to give away (its pink)... But nothing can take the place of the MONGOOSE!!! :riding

I just completed a 65 mile 4th of July Ride ! The best part my girlfriend did it to !! It was hilly for sure . We averaged 17 mph . I had to stop twice in the last 3 miles for leg cramps ! LOL But I did finish . We want to average 18 mph on a ride before we tackle the "Mt. Doom":D

I just completed a 65 mile 4th of July Ride ! The best part my girlfriend did it to !! It was hilly for sure . We averaged 17 mph . I had to stop twice in the last 3 miles for leg cramps ! LOL But I did finish . We want to average 18 mph on a ride before we tackle the "Mt. Doom":D :rock:rock:rock NICE!!!

We are excited ! This was my first time over 54 miles .:)

Good deal BK! :thumbup

I bet you're makin' Chad PROUD! Keep up the good work. :thumbup

I bet you're makin' Chad PROUD! Keep up the good work. :thumbup Unlike me. Let's see... 2 root beers, 1 cheddarwurst, tortilla chips with salsa, cheeseburger, potato salad, baked beans... I've got my work cut out for me. :lol

:lol Carb loading fjorn?? :corn

:lol Carb loading fjorn?? :corn Uh.. No. There's protein, and fibre in there too. :crash

A good diet is important !:lol

Uh.. No. There's protein, and fibre in there too. :crash and fat and sugar and. . . :thumbup

and fat and sugar and. . . :thumbup :secret: It's the holiday. Today is clean eating again. :crash

:secret: It's the holiday. Today is clean eating again. :crash I tried to contantly eat clean. . .it's just not as fun. :) I admire people who can do it and have single digit BF numbers.

I tried to contantly eat clean. . .it's just not as fun. :) I admire people who can do it and have single digit BF numbers. I typically do eat clean. But, what's killing me is that I'm still of the mindset that I need to eat large to get large (I competed in strongman like competitions) for muscle size and strength. But now that I'm not able to workout, it converts to fat as the muscles atrophy.

I typically do eat clean. But, what's killing me is that I'm still of the mindset that I need to eat large to get large (I competed in strongman like competitions) for muscle size and strength. But now that I'm not able to workout, it converts to fat as the muscles atrophy. Do you do any AM cardio?

Do you do any AM cardio? Ride bike, jog occasionally and take the dog for walks when I have time (at least 3 times during the week, and both Sat/Sun). In the evening, I typically go for walks with the wife and the dog. I'm hoping a deal goes through for me soon. If it does, I'll be getting in tons of bicycling then. :thumbup

http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_DSC07131of1.jpg

http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_DSC07121of1.jpg

Nice! Thanks for posting those here! :thumbup

This whole bikeride is the child of a sheot talkin session between me and Chad. Leading up to the 07' convention I had went out and bought my first Road bike. I'm a decent competitor on a mountain bike and I can hammer my way through some pretty technical stuff , but when I bought the roadie I took a short 5 mile spin and it scared the crap out of me. Chad being Chad , told me it would take a bit but I'd eventually get the hang of it because I was'nt used to the riding position or the twitchy nature of the bike. So I took a few more rides and began to go on with Chad about how awesome I was. So Chad hit me with "You should bring it to the Gap and we can ride!!" So because of this I bought a trailer for my bike so that I could put my mountain bike and road bike in the bed of my truck. Well..................I was stayin with Chad in the cabin so I could'nt hide from him. On the way into Fontana I was asking myself "WTF were you thinkin!?!?!?!?!" and just hoping that Chad sucked as much as I knew I would. Then I got a brilliant idea to just go ride some of the awesome singletrack I heard they have for mountain bikes and maybe convincing Chad that this would be enough. Well , when Chad comes in he tells me he forgot to bring his bike. On the outside I was disappointed, but inside I was hootin and hollering because now I knew that Chad could'nt mop my ass up that damned road. That night I declared victory by default. I insisted that he only left his bike because he was afraid. We agreed to a re match and began sheot talking each other for 08'. Earlier this year around February , I knew that the convention was near and I'd better get on that bike and learn it. I started out with small rides between 8 and 12 miles. Within a few months I was destroying 25mile rides at near sprint speeds in high wind and heat . I was so damned happy to be getting close to Chad level and I needed to tell somebody. Well , nobody knew but me and Chad so I was forced to tell him. When I did he was as happy about it as I was but it was probably a bad thing for me because he said he had to kick it up a notch and he was already about 10 notches past me anyway. Last time I talked with "Young Chadwick" ( That's what I called him )he told me about the ride and how he burned 4000 + calories. He told me it was tough , but the fact that he got hurt would give me an opportunity to train up and pull it off next year. When he said that it reminded me of him pulling me around Jennings GP. I was balls out going as fast as I could to keep up with him , but damned if he was'nt turned around in the seat lookin back at me and urging me on with every lap. He made it look easy to a point that he actually ran off the track between 2 and 3 kept it up then dived into 4 to 5 still lookin back at me to make sure I got his line. He remarked later that I had noticeably gotten faster and also had the most confidence on the bike that he'd ever seen in me. I'm doin that same 40 mile route because he told me he wanted me to train up for it. I could give a shet less if all I bought to the Gap was my roadie, I'm makin that 40 miles even if I have to float the last one. Anyone else up for it start trainin up now because I'm gonna be talkin smack to Chad the whole way and it might get interesting if he starts talkin back. Post up pics of your tools of choice so I'll know who needs their tire pressures "adjusted" before the ride begins.:sneaky

This whole bikeride is the child of a sheot talkin session between me and Chad. Leading up to the 07' convention I had went out and bought my first Road bike. I'm a decent competitor on a mountain bike and I can hammer my way through some pretty technical stuff , but when I bought the roadie I took a short 5 mile spin and it scared the crap out of me. Chad being Chad , told me it would take a bit but I'd eventually get the hang of it because I was'nt used to the riding position or the twitchy nature of the bike. So I took a few more rides and began to go on with Chad about how awesome I was. So Chad hit me with "You should bring it to the Gap and we can ride!!" So because of this I bought a trailer for my bike so that I could put my mountain bike and road bike in the bed of my truck. Well..................I was stayin with Chad in the cabin so I could'nt hide from him. On the way into Fontana I was asking myself "WTF were you thinkin!?!?!?!?!" and just hoping that Chad sucked as much as I knew I would. Then I got a brilliant idea to just go ride some of the awesome singletrack I heard they have for mountain bikes and maybe convincing Chad that this would be enough. Well , when Chad comes in he tells me he forgot to bring his bike. On the outside I was disappointed, but inside I was hootin and hollering because now I knew that Chad could'nt mop my ass up that damned road. That night I declared victory by default. I insisted that he only left his bike because he was afraid. We agreed to a re match and began sheot talking each other for 08'. Earlier this year around February , I knew that the convention was near and I'd better get on that bike and learn it. I started out with small rides between 8 and 12 miles. Within a few months I was destroying 25mile rides at near sprint speeds in high wind and heat . I was so damned happy to be getting close to Chad level and I needed to tell somebody. Well , nobody knew but me and Chad so I was forced to tell him. When I did he was as happy about it as I was but it was probably a bad thing for me because he said he had to kick it up a notch and he was already about 10 notches past me anyway. Last time I talked with "Young Chadwick" ( That's what I called him )he told me about the ride and how he burned 4000 + calories. He told me it was tough , but the fact that he got hurt would give me an opportunity to train up and pull it off next year. When he said that it reminded me of him pulling me around Jennings GP. I was balls out going as fast as I could to keep up with him , but damned if he was'nt turned around in the seat lookin back at me and urging me on with every lap. He made it look easy to a point that he actually ran off the track between 2 and 3 kept it up then dived into 4 to 5 still lookin back at me to make sure I got his line. He remarked later that I had noticeably gotten faster and also had the most confidence on the bike that he'd ever seen in me. I'm doin that same 40 mile route because he told me he wanted me to train up for it. I could give a shet less if all I bought to the Gap was my roadie, I'm makin that 40 miles even if I have to float the last one. Anyone else up for it start trainin up now because I'm gonna be talkin smack to Chad the whole way and it might get interesting if he starts talkin back. Post up pics of your tools of choice so I'll know who needs their tire pressures "adjusted" before the ride begins.:sneaky Stop the press AL lives LOL

This whole bikeride is the child of a sheot talkin session between me and Chad. Leading up to the 07' convention I had went out and bought my first Road bike. I'm a decent competitor on a mountain bike and I can hammer my way through some pretty technical stuff , but when I bought the roadie I took a short 5 mile spin and it scared the crap out of me. Chad being Chad , told me it would take a bit but I'd eventually get the hang of it because I was'nt used to the riding position or the twitchy nature of the bike. So I took a few more rides and began to go on with Chad about how awesome I was. So Chad hit me with "You should bring it to the Gap and we can ride!!" So because of this I bought a trailer for my bike so that I could put my mountain bike and road bike in the bed of my truck. Well..................I was stayin with Chad in the cabin so I could'nt hide from him. On the way into Fontana I was asking myself "WTF were you thinkin!?!?!?!?!" and just hoping that Chad sucked as much as I knew I would. Then I got a brilliant idea to just go ride some of the awesome singletrack I heard they have for mountain bikes and maybe convincing Chad that this would be enough. Well , when Chad comes in he tells me he forgot to bring his bike. On the outside I was disappointed, but inside I was hootin and hollering because now I knew that Chad could'nt mop my ass up that damned road. That night I declared victory by default. I insisted that he only left his bike because he was afraid. We agreed to a re match and began sheot talking each other for 08'. Earlier this year around February , I knew that the convention was near and I'd better get on that bike and learn it. I started out with small rides between 8 and 12 miles. Within a few months I was destroying 25mile rides at near sprint speeds in high wind and heat . I was so damned happy to be getting close to Chad level and I needed to tell somebody. Well , nobody knew but me and Chad so I was forced to tell him. When I did he was as happy about it as I was but it was probably a bad thing for me because he said he had to kick it up a notch and he was already about 10 notches past me anyway. Last time I talked with "Young Chadwick" ( That's what I called him )he told me about the ride and how he burned 4000 + calories. He told me it was tough , but the fact that he got hurt would give me an opportunity to train up and pull it off next year. When he said that it reminded me of him pulling me around Jennings GP. I was balls out going as fast as I could to keep up with him , but damned if he was'nt turned around in the seat lookin back at me and urging me on with every lap. He made it look easy to a point that he actually ran off the track between 2 and 3 kept it up then dived into 4 to 5 still lookin back at me to make sure I got his line. He remarked later that I had noticeably gotten faster and also had the most confidence on the bike that he'd ever seen in me. I'm doin that same 40 mile route because he told me he wanted me to train up for it. I could give a shet less if all I bought to the Gap was my roadie, I'm makin that 40 miles even if I have to float the last one. Anyone else up for it start trainin up now because I'm gonna be talkin smack to Chad the whole way and it might get interesting if he starts talkin back. Post up pics of your tools of choice so I'll know who needs their tire pressures "adjusted" before the ride begins.:sneaky :thumbup Got your back brother. I'll make sure there is a lead and chase vehicle with H2O, gatorade and bananas.

I will bring the video for editing later LOL.

My new bike............:confused:

My new bike............:confused: It would appear that your pressures will need adjusting if you're taming that beast .

It would appear that your pressures will need adjusting if you're taming that beast . I wish....so who was giving out loans...I'll take 8.5k for that puppy!!!! I think it comes with a years supply of designer steroids and a work out program designed by Lance for that much money!

I wish....so who was giving out loans...I'll take 8.5k for that puppy!!!! I think it comes with a years supply of designer steroids and a work out program designed by Lance for that much money! Pretty much that one is a tri bike. Here's the roadie version.........and the 08 equipped with Dura Ace is right around 6300.00 . ( Just one bank and you have that and enough for a decent set of bib shorts and a jersey with matching shoes and helmet:lol )

I'm trying to get my R1 back up and running before I go out and buy a new bike so I'll be a few months behind in the training plus I live in the northeast so after November there is not much time to ride.

Post up pics of your tools of choice so I'll know who needs their tire pressures "adjusted" before the ride begins.:sneaky My sweet 18 year old... :sneaky

I'm trying to get my R1 back up and running before I go out and buy a new bike so I'll be a few months behind in the training plus I live in the northeast so after November there is not much time to ride. Try living in MN... I didn't get a chance to get on my bike until end of April. :rant Have to move it indoors for training during inclement weather which is boring a fack!

Try living in MN... I didn't get a chance to get on my bike until end of April. :rant Have to move it indoors for training during inclement weather which is boring a fack! Hey bro... how well does that thing work indoors? Does it duplicate normal resistance well? I'm thinking real hard of getting a road bike, but I'm a fair weather guy myself. I have to avoid the long Carolina winters (that's a rough three weeks :fact). But seriously... with the amount of rain we get out here, I would need an indoor option.

My sweet 18 year old... :sneaky I would never blow that off as non competitive. :fact Your tire pressures will remain under observation until further review. Last year I worked a triathlon and for the bike portion there was this guy riding an old Huffy Beach cruiser with a big assed basket on the front with water, banana's and all kinds of crap in it. The first time he passed me it was kinda funny and people in the race thought so too. It became less and less funny to them during the race because that bastard was running in the top quarter of the crowd on a beat up huffy with white wall tires and a basket of crap on the bars. He did'nt win but there were plenty of folks behind him on five thousand dollar bikes. It remained hillarious to me throughout the race.

Hey bro... how well does that thing work indoors? Does it duplicate normal resistance well? I'm thinking real hard of getting a road bike, but I'm a fair weather guy myself. I have to avoid the long Carolina winters (that's a rough three weeks :fact). But seriously... with the amount of rain we get out here, I would need an indoor option. If you're looking for a trainer, be sure to get a fluid resistance. Works very well. The wind and electronic resistance units are not that good and don't offer the variable resistance the fluid units do. The one I have is from Trek, but it's a CycleOps (made by Saris) Fluid2: CLICKY (http://cycleops.com/p-309-fluid.aspx) There are better ones out there, but this was a good deal for me when I bought it. The BIGGEST problem you'll have with an indoor trainer is how absolutely friggin' BORING it is cranking away indoors. Next winter, I'm going to have a couple of training DVD's to watch and ride to. :fact

Hey bro... how well does that thing work indoors? Does it duplicate normal resistance well? I'm thinking real hard of getting a road bike, but I'm a fair weather guy myself. I have to avoid the long Carolina winters (that's a rough three weeks :fact). But seriously... with the amount of rain we get out here, I would need an indoor option. Dan......................:no those are'nt for us people who can actually walk out the door without a shovel in the winter. Trust me!!! I bought a Cycleops Magneto with the whole kit and kaboodle in accessories including some dvd's . I used it twice and it was so mind numbing I had to get it out of my house. You'd do better to get on another type of bike and make up the miles noodling. Shawn can do it because he's trapped in the winter anyway.

I would never blow that off as non competitive. :fact Your tire pressures will remain under observation until further review. Last year I worked a triathlon and for the bike portion there was this guy riding an old Huffy Beach cruiser with a big assed basket on the front with water, banana's and all kinds of crap in it. The first time he passed me it was kinda funny and people in the race thought so too. It became less and less funny to them during the race because that bastard was running in the top quarter of the crowd on a beat up huffy with white wall tires and a basket of crap on the bars. He did'nt win but there were plenty of folks behind him on five thousand dollar bikes. It remained hillarious to me throughout the race. That's kinda funny about the old Huffy, but I've seen it myself. Non-competetive? Nah... I just think it's funny that people spend thousands of dollars on new bikes when an old one will do wonders. The nice thing about this one is that it's a 21 speed. I've dropped it into super low and pedaled up hills most racers had difficulties with on their race bikes. LeTour bikes are great for touring, and are the way to attack the hills.

AL!!! THAT WAS ME!!! :fact http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_0071099-1.jpg I would never blow that off as non competitive. :fact Your tire pressures will remain under observation until further review. Last year I worked a triathlon and for the bike portion there was this guy riding an old Huffy Beach cruiser with a big assed basket on the front with water, banana's and all kinds of crap in it. The first time he passed me it was kinda funny and people in the race thought so too. It became less and less funny to them during the race because that bastard was running in the top quarter of the crowd on a beat up huffy with white wall tires and a basket of crap on the bars. He did'nt win but there were plenty of folks behind him on five thousand dollar bikes. It remained hillarious to me throughout the race.

AL!!! THAT WAS ME!!! :fact http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_0071099-1.jpg :flex::blush Remind me not to make you :mad: Laura

And miss out on an opportunity to serve a knuckle supper??!? NO WAY! :no

If you're looking for a trainer, be sure to get a fluid resistance. Works very well. The wind and electronic resistance units are not that good and don't offer the variable resistance the fluid units do. The one I have is from Trek, but it's a CycleOps (made by Saris) Fluid2: CLICKY (http://cycleops.com/p-309-fluid.aspx) There are better ones out there, but this was a good deal for me when I bought it. The BIGGEST problem you'll have with an indoor trainer is how absolutely friggin' BORING it is cranking away indoors. Next winter, I'm going to have a couple of training DVD's to watch and ride to. :fact Thanks for the info Shawn :thumbup Dan......................:no those are'nt for us people who can actually walk out the door without a shovel in the winter. Trust me!!! I bought a Cycleops Magneto with the whole kit and kaboodle in accessories including some dvd's . I used it twice and it was so mind numbing I had to get it out of my house. You'd do better to get on another type of bike and make up the miles noodling. Shawn can do it because he's trapped in the winter anyway. I have to see what happens once I get a bicycle. I can't run any more, and I need MUCH more cardio. I've got more weight to lose, and I just want to be in better shape overall. Big plans for the next year :secret:

AL!!! THAT WAS ME!!! :fact http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_0071099-1.jpg :confused: Please tell me you made it to the toilet!!!!! I need a sultry Laura pic right away!!

Thanks for the info Shawn :thumbup I have to see what happens once I get a bicycle. I can't run any more, and I need MUCH more cardio. I've got more weight to lose, and I just want to be in better shape overall. Big plans for the next year :secret: Dan it happens pretty quick on the bike. I'm anti running too ,after my EAS I pledged never to run for no reason again in my life. Now if I have to run I'm bringin an asswhoopin with me :fact This bike I have now is my first roadbike. I was'nt sure if I'd like it and I damned sure was'nt gonna bust out 3 or 4 thousand on a whim so I found a company on ebay that had what looked like pretty decent component packages for cheap. I bought my bike for 689.00 shipped and comparatively it could'nt be had for under 1700.00 locally. I've added some Carbon wing bars, a thomson elite zero degree post and an ISM seat and Ultegra clipless and it's a decent enough bike that one of the managers at a high zoot local shop was telling a customer that my bike was an italian racer from a good line. I had to educate him on the fact that the family name was sold and the bikes are'nt made by the family anymore. Certainly looks the part though. I'll probably upgrade from the same company in a year or so. Seems the selection is down on the low end but they go up and down. Even still look at the price for the gruppo you get with their most expensive bike and compare it to another brand. http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQsassZbottecchia-usa

Dan......................:no those are'nt for us people who can actually walk out the door without a shovel in the winter. Trust me!!! I bought a Cycleops Magneto with the whole kit and kaboodle in accessories including some dvd's . I used it twice and it was so mind numbing I had to get it out of my house. You'd do better to get on another type of bike and make up the miles noodling. Shawn can do it because he's trapped in the winter anyway. :fact Buy a cheap bike for the winter time. I don't recall if NC salts roads or not, but even a $500 cheapie will suffice. My LeTour will actually become my commuter when I get a new one later this year (hopefully). But, it's not that I can do it. I have no choice. Too cold to run, and riding a bicycle in the winter sucks! And miss out on an opportunity to serve a knuckle supper??!? NO WAY! :no Is that a promise? :crash Thanks for the info Shawn :thumbup I have to see what happens once I get a bicycle. I can't run any more, and I need MUCH more cardio. I've got more weight to lose, and I just want to be in better shape overall. Big plans for the next year :secret: Any time Dan. :thumbup I'm trying to make a comeback myself. 1.5 years of pretty much being unable to do anything has taken it's toll. :rant

Alright, time to go do the husbandly "honey do" task for the evening. :cryin :cryin

Alright, time to go do the husbandly "honey do" task for the evening. :cryin :cryin I'm gonna have to reveal the secret saying to you. "I'll get right on it.":secret:

AL!!! THAT WAS ME!!! :fact http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_0071099-1.jpg WELCOME TO THE GUN SHOW! SOmeone's been working out!

I'm gonna have to reveal the secret saying to you. "I'll get right on it.":secret: Not quite that simple... :rant:rant

don't be dissin' on Huffy. I could kick all of your asses on my trusty Santa Fe. :fact

...Eventually, Kmac left the Huffy by the side of the road and decided it might be faster just to hoof it... http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_LTG0299post.jpg :hammer:

Sounds familiar. Eh, Laura? :sing:

Yeah, it sounds like what will happen when you & me go racin' fjorn :finger

Yeah, it sounds like what will happen when you & me go racin' fjorn :finger :flex: :makeout :flex: :lol :lol

...Eventually, Kmac left the Huffy by the side of the road and decided it might be faster just to hoof it... http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb255/YamahaDragon/_LTG0299post.jpg :hammer: Hey, I remember that little guy... I just got done doing over 25 miles no sweat... the hills around here aren't quite as big as in the mountains :)