Bike Masters Cycling Club

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 01.23

2012-01-23T07:52:00.000-06:00

About an inch of snow fell last night to add some crunch and change of color to the ride tonight. We will roll from the shop at 6 and the kiosk about 6:05. Let's enjoy the easy pedaling snow ride tonight!

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 01.16

2012-01-16T08:17:00.000-06:00

What an incredible Winter we have been having weatherwise. Probably 15+ cars at the Tranquility kiosk yesterday afternoon with sunshine, temps in the low 50's, and the tread in great shape.

Though colder today, we still have a great opportunity to ride dirt in the dark in January. We will leave the shop at 6 and roll from the kiosk about 6:05.

Let's enjoy the ride!

MNR Report - Jan. 09, 2012

2012-01-10T09:02:00.003-06:00

In future winter seasons we'll be talking about Monday Night Rides taking place in January 2012 where the conditions were so great. Last night the trail was nice and firm. The temprature was comforatble and the moon was so bright Steve D. turned his light off. There was a decent turnout for last nights ride. Patrick was the newcomer last night but his riding was fast and sure didn't reflect any newness.

Greg was demoing a Giant Anthem and enjoying the full squishyness of it.
We avoided the old trail close to the north creek because it's not drying out like the rest of the trail. We used the trail that goes by the kiosk to get to and from the new trails on the far north side. It was great to ride with the Daves (P. and N.) Eric, Greg, Mike, Pat, Steve and Cody. Many of the worlds problems were solved in my garage after the ride. We didn't write anything down so we'll have to solve those problems again next week. :-)-Paul

we got the weatherman's mistake monday

2011-12-21T17:35:00.000-06:00

Was a little concerned when pulled into the shop and water wasn't frozen on parking lot. Tried a little of the singletrack at shop and it left a waffle pattern but didn't stick to tire. TP was different. Once the mud started to stick, it filled out to the end of the knobbies. Maybe that's why it didn't look like we were leaving much tracks on the tread because it was mud on mud.

Here are a couple of pics I'm sad to show.

Got the hose out at the shop and washed my bottom bracket, chainstays, seatstays. I guess I have to push the conditions once to be reminded why we say no to mud.

tranquility park monday night ride - 12.19

2011-12-19T01:31:00.000-06:00

Deleted pic from dmars on downed tree along the Papio Creek. Will leave for ramp work in the Spring while Greg and Paul cut out an easy bypass on the side Monday morning. Look forward to riding through it tonight.

Will roll from kiosk, 124th and Fort St, around 6:05. We roll from the shop at 6.

Enjoy the ride!

monday night bike de'lights - 12.12

2011-12-12T15:57:00.000-06:00

Tranquility trail is too wet so we will do an impromptu local bike de'lights. See the map

Will leave Target Starbucks at 132nd/Maple at 6 pm and head west to 144th. Return via 132nd. About seven miles in length. For a shorter kids route, park at the 66 gas station on SW corner of 144th/Blondo.

Some spectacular lights off Hamilton and east of 144th.

All are welcome, no drop ride.

first snow ride of 2011/12 season

2011-12-06T08:59:00.000-06:00

12/05 Monday Night Ride at Tranquility

Ryan showed for his first snow ride - awesome! Add to the difficulty of riding in the snow - night time light/vision and temp of about 18 with no solar heating by the sun. He did really well - though I detected more fishtailing as the distance increased. Even riding snow tread that has been packed down, it's like riding a foot wide board all the time. Eventually the continued concentration on trying to ride so narrow adds up - that and our trail widening instances carved up the tread requiring more concentration next time around to ride through.

Was reminded of the difference between snow packed into ice and ice that's glazed. Less noise on latter and I got dropped really quick twice. Neighborhood streets had better traction than park entrances. Even though fell on solid ice over pavement, no long term pain. Studs or chains do help on the glaze, but overall, I like the mt kings at 22 psi rear and 20 front. Felt bounce and concerned about pinch flat but made it home. With so much ice/snow on streets, I don't ride fast enough to require braking hard and spinning a tire on the rim. Glad I went to 36/22 gearing, could feel quads had a workout when I got home.

Overall, I was out almost two hours at 18F with 10mph NNE wind. New PI gloves with vulcan sign fingering and additional glove inside (can't remember correct term for the inside glove) worked. A couple finger tips got cold at first, then warmed up, then several fingers got cold. Did Dave N's warm up technique of throwing to ground motion and the fingers hurt more! Then they warmed up. 8-) Stopping to talk to Steve a couple times and the fingers got cold. Must be lower heart rate/blood pressure doesn't push enough warm blood to fingers/toes. Toes were mostly fine, though when I got home and stripped down, the toes felt pretty cold with a little tinglyness.

Clothing: wool socks, sugoi 3/4 leggings, sugoi thermal pants, chrome messenger pants, armour base, sugoi wool jersey, chrome wool jacket, two PI thin belaclavas, PI thin glove, PI P.R.O. softshell lobster glove, Shimano winter boot, PI high ankle shoe covering. L&M ARC (HID, old but still works) only lasted about 1.5 hours, good I ride with handlebar backup. This was the second time it ran dry on way home from a mnr. I don't use both lights at same time so I have a backup. Forgot to blow camelbak tube with air so it was frozen solid first time went for a drink. Not going extreme on power output kept hydration necessity low.

Overall, a fun first snow ride of the season, even being dark with a little wind. Nice having someone to ride with and seeing Steve and Cody on the trail. They were out there in daylight through our ride and put in 10 miles on xc skis.

Surprisingly, the snow has not compacted or iced yet. Agree with Steve that snow loops need to be short so many laps are put on tread to pack down and widen out. Or need a lot of bikes for longer loops. I think flatter grade trails are best choice since elevation change requires more precise balance to keep traction to both tires and increases power needs beyond my sustainable max.

Lot of quad tracks on wetland loop. Didn't go far on it before turning around. Maybe mental but prefer to break/pack tread in daylight. Minimal visibility seems limits the amount of hard work I want to do. Night time snow riding is like riding an unfamiliar, loose traction, tread requiring more balance and tracking skills, more power output at less speed. It is a much different experience from cold, dry riding, which is different from warm, dry riding. Cool the different kinds of experiences available on a bike!

If night time singletrack in the snow is beyond your comfort range, check out daytime snow riding on the cement trails. After being plowed, these are usually less icy than neighborhood streets, though need to watch for thawed/frozen ice (black ice).

Enjoy the ride!

monday mtb ride at tranquility 12.05

2011-12-05T00:07:00.000-06:00

Leave from kiosk about 6:05, 124th and Fort St.

Mike, Paul, and Chris packed down the loop north of Fort St. Will see how the trail is around the Feeder Creek. If rideable, get a couple loops on that and then head to the north side. Linking up the flattest trails at Tranquility should get us around a 4 mile loop.

Let's enjoy the ride!

nice warmup after mnr

2011-11-28T22:54:00.000-06:00

Paul and Chris had some cold toes tonight. Paul gets his roasted over a kerosine fire.

Dave N brought his mini salimander powered by LP. Took the chill off the garage quickly.

Though neighborhood weather stations and smart phones said it was mid to upper 30's. Saw some frost reflecting off grass near end of ride. Used wind shell for extra layer on ride home.

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 11.21

2011-11-21T07:55:00.000-06:00

Rode to church yesterday morning in 20 degree temps to stay current with weather and test how many layers were needed. Half hour ride with tailwind and sun, 3 layers - had to slow down and unzip wind shell because was overheating core, though my 2 layer gloves still had my fingers getting cold.

Tonight's ride should be in 30's but without sun, so probably about the same - warm base layer and external garment. Ride to stay warm but slow down if sweating.

Roll from kiosk at 124th and Fort about 6:05. Ride a lap or so. If we're cold, can always cut ride short.

We need to keep riding to have the body and mind adapt to weather, otherwise it's 4-5 months of indoor stuff.

Let's enjoy the ride!

friday night ride turns all steel

2011-11-19T22:42:00.000-06:00

dmars put out a ride invitation on thor page for friday night and four steel bikes rode about 12 miles at tranquility. interesting mix of bikes: ss hardtail, ss rigid, fixed rigid, geared rigid. Temp around 50, no wind, clear sky - beautiful ride. This is the second fnr in a row at tp and both rides were highly enjoyable.

Surprisingly no skunks but did see a couple deer. Paul was about 10' from them before they grudgingly moved, and then only about 20'. Probably the same deer that stood up to Paul a month ago. Don't need to fear a no-show mountain lion when the onsite deer feel they can kick your butt.

great ride, great scar to remember it by

2011-11-15T10:56:00.000-06:00

Great temps, no wind, nice evening views, fresh trail backwards, friends to enjoy the ride with. Same TTFs with different feel. The northern log crossing, middle path, had Paul's number last night. Timing didn't put wheel on top but before log causing a chain reaction sudden stop, nose wheelie, rider face plant into log. Helmet and eye protection kept this from being much worse. Blood, 10mm slit opened in the eye lid, bandaid covered for ride back home. Ice to keep swelling down, and nut brown ale to ease the pain.

As Paul says, "Nature's tattoo to remember a fun ride."

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 11.14

2011-11-14T13:16:00.000-06:00

Sunny, dry, average temps for mid November. Good stuff. Got a lap in at Platte River before the Bike Bash last night. Last weekend was first ride at Swanson this year, same for Platte. Nice to change things up.

Will ride southhill regular way but middle and north thirds of trail backwards.

Roll out of kiosk at 124th and Fort St around 6:05.

Enjoy the ride!

After Cranksgiving 2011 Report

2011-11-13T14:37:00.000-06:00

After Cranksgiving Report
Cranksgiving Omaha 2011, was held at Bike Masters on
Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011. The weather was in the mid-fifties, with overcast
skies and 10-15 mph winds. The streets were dry and it did not rain or snow
during the day. No complaints about the weather.
52 riders registered for the event. 4 single speed riders, 5
trailer riders, and the other riders were geared. We received rider prizes from
Trek Store Omaha, Extreme Wheels, Olympia Cycle, Green Street Cycle, Quality
Bike Products, Chrome Bags, Target Stores, Brewskis, and Giant Bicycles. We
were able to raffle off a bicycle and chrome bag donated by Bike Masters, a bag
donated by Chrome Bags, and about ten items donated by the Trek Store and
Extreme Wheels.
We raised $535 in check/cash donations and raffle ticket
sales. The amount of check donations was $155. There was at least one known
cash donation, in the amount of $50. That leaves the remaining amount of $330
to raffle ticket sales and unknown cash donations. The raffle tickets were sold
for $1 each.
We had nine people volunteer; Perry Mitchell, Scott Smith,
Genea Davis, Kathy Palmer, Dave Cassiday, Jennifer Rardin, Joan Mitchell-Boyd,
Scott’s daughter Aireal (I probably spelled her name wrong), and Erin Mitchell.
We had five people provide food items; Joan Mitchell, Paula Mitchell, Scott
Smith, Dave Reinartz, and a lady with a baby (her name may have been Kim
McColgan). All of the food was gone by the end of the event, I think there was
enough food. The food was very good.
We had trophies for Mens/Womens single speed and geared
classes and a Trailer class. We had Gold, Silver, and Bronze cranks and gears
for each winner. Dave Reinartz has the list of winners in each class.
Registration was held from 11:00am to 12:00pm. We started
the race at 12:06 pm. The first rider back was Dave Mortensen, in 48 minutes.
We had the trophy presentations at 2:30 pm. The raffle ticket prizes were drawn
at 3:00pm. There were 5 or 6 registered riders out still at 3:00pm. I am not
aware of them coming in after 3:00pm, I hope they are okay.
The total amount of food that was donated during the event
was 1,288 pounds. We filled up the eight tubs provided by the Omaha Food Bank.
Next year they need to bring ten tubs because we did not have enough tubs for
all the food.
I rate the event as very successful. 1,288 lbs of food
donated, $535 donated, 52 riders who had fun, (or at least it looked like they
had fun) and no one was injured in a traffic accident. I would like to thank
all the riders, sponsors, volunteers and food providers for their time, effort
and willingness to serve. Thanks,
Perry Mitchell

Trek Up The Tower 2012

2011-11-08T12:19:00.006-06:00

Need some incentive to stay in shape this winter? Tired of the trainer?

Try the Trek Up the Tower!

The Bike Masters team is open to anyone, not just Team & Club riders. If you have always wanted to try this event but didn't have a team, this is your chance!

By joining Bike Masters Trek Up the Tower team, not only will you be getting in excellent shape
to start off the new year, you’ll also be supporting the Wellness Council of the Midlands as they help build a healthier community.

Trek Up the Tower is a vertical challenge race up 40 flights of stairs to the top of the First National Tower in downtown Omaha on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012. Regardless of whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just starting your workout routine, you’ll fit right in with more than 1,500 other participants who make their way up the tower to enjoy the view from Omaha’s highest point.

To learn more, or to
register, go HERE

Once you’re there, simply select Bike Masters as your team. Registration is $45 per person. In
addition to getting in shape and benefiting a worthy cause, you will receive an event shirt and finisher’s medal.

Registration is limited and previous years have sold out months prior to race day, the event is already over ½ full, so sign-up NOW!

After you register your team captian will contact you.

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 11.07

2011-11-07T08:58:00.001-06:00

Meet at the kiosk at 6, 124th and Fort St, south side first parking lot. First full ride in darkness, have that battery fully charged. Prepare to meet Robert the skunk and other animals of the night on our creature ride.

Changing temps, lighting, flora, fauna - riding different seasons is like living in different places and climates without having to travel or move there.

Let's enjoy the ride!

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 10.31

2011-10-31T16:31:00.000-05:00

Meet at the kiosk, 124th and Fort St, south side. No post ride refreshments tonight.
Let's enjoy the ride!

Cranksgiving Omaha 2011

2011-10-25T13:10:00.001-05:00

Cranksgiving is an event that collects food items for the Omaha Food Bank by sending bicycle riders on a ten-item scavenger hunt! The bicycle riders will be donating money by purchasing food items at 10 different
stores around the area. You can still contribute even if you do not want to ride, all cash and food donations will be gladly accepted and will be given to the Omaha Food Bank as well.

The Cranksgiving event will be held at Bike Masters Bicycle Shop (located near 130th and Fort) on Saturday, November 12th, 2011. Registration starts at 11 AM and the scavenger hunt begins at Noon. There
will be prizes, food, and drink for all participants. Even a chance to win a bicycle raffled off by Bike Masters! We encourage people of all ages and abilities to participate in this positive and supportive annual event! Please contact Perry Mitchell (Event Director) with any questions, concerns or donations.

Thanks!
Perry Mitchell
Phone: (402)936-3909 Email: perry.mitchell@cox.net

2035 transportation master plan seeking comments

2011-10-20T01:23:00.001-05:00

Overall, I was encouraged by number of bike infrastructure projects, especially numbers in North Omaha. Discouraging is the number of years to get many of the projects done, especially west of 680 which are 10-15 years out (e.g. extending Big Papio trail through Tranquility Park to Military Ave.) or more.

The high number of non car projects makes sense since the goal of TMP 2035 is to become multi modal and non auto modes are the most poorly represented. Bottom line, one needs to move way inside 680 if you want better biking infrastructure in the next 5 years. Outside 680 or inside, one must learn to ride as and with vehicular traffic.

I encourage people to peruse the plan at http://www.ci.omaha.ne.us/tmplan/images/stories/pdfs/DRAFT%20TMP%20Project%20Rankings.pdf and make comments.

For example, I will comment on MP-023 Multiuse path along the west side of Standing Bear Lake which is planned between 2021-25:

People have worn a path on the dirt shoulder, often walking withing a couple feet of cars going 45 mph and more. This situation is similar to the Lake Zorinski path along 168th St. Should this path really be put off 10-15 years? Regardless, the speed limit should be reduced to 35 mph till a multiuse path is separated from the road.

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 10.17 cancelled

2011-10-17T16:48:00.000-05:00

Just checked the trail and my shoes started loading up with dirt. Close but no cigar.

I've been un-derailed.

2011-10-09T18:19:00.001-05:00

Since getting back into off-road biking I've been trying different things to figure out what kind of cyclist I am. As of yesterday I'm the one with 29er wheels and 1 speed. Thank you Bike Masters. The service is outrageous!-Paul

more first timers at 0926 mnr

2011-09-29T13:17:00.000-05:00

Awesome weather, trail conditions, and riding buddies were on hand Monday at Tranquility. Derek bought a bike earlier this year and finally made it out for an mnr. His only other time at Tranquility was with a friend who taco'd a wheel in the first mile, abruptly ending the ride.

Marty and Christian had parents at the soccer games and brought there bikes to ride. Mike rode by them and discussed Devo opportunities with them.

Ended with second lap on North Fort. Had just enough light to get to Paul's for refreshments.

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 09.26

2011-09-26T13:46:00.000-05:00

Another beautiful evening for mtb'ing at Tranquility. Meet at the kiosk, 124th and Fort St at 6.
Enjoy the ride!

folding fender

2011-09-14T12:44:00.000-05:00

Working on a new design for the fender to fold up for singletrack and then deploy for commuting. Having problems with the deployment phase.

LADIES TUESDAY NIGHT RIDE 09.13

2011-09-11T12:06:00.004-05:00

LADIES FULL MOON Tuesday Night Ride: We will leave at 6 pm sharp!
Bring your lights as sunset is scheduled for 7:39 PM. We will leave
the south Kohl's parking lot and ride the Keystone Trail for a return
trip under a full moon. Hope to see you there!

inner loop descent wider and bigger

2011-08-31T12:13:00.000-05:00

Check out mike's pics and video of inner loop descent from mnr

Doesn't happen much on mnr but had flat problems.

Regrouping after watching Chris and others have second helpings of the blue line berms.

monday mtb ride at tranquility cancelled 08.22

2011-08-22T14:56:00.000-05:00

Local playground:

I can't get to the trail to check it nor ride tonight. The neighborhood weather station seems broken but based on rain at house and local playground flooding, seems wise to give trail more time to dry out.

important meeting on future omaha bike transportation

2011-08-16T01:04:00.000-05:00

Please attend the Transportation Master Plan public comment meeting on Thursday, Sept 15 at 630 PM.
Scott Conference Center 6450 Pine St.

(You are welcome to join us at the shop as we leave at 5:30 to ride to this meeting. Heard there are groups also riding from Century Link Center and possibly Seymor Smith Park.)

It is very important for a large number of citizens to attend! The future of all transportation planning for Omaha for the next 30 years is at stake. You can influence the future with your attendance and comments!

There is a chance for Omaha to actually have transportation infrastructure and services that will promote bicycling, pedestrianism, and mass transit. City leaders need to be impressed by the public demand for these facilities. The economic survival of Omaha is at stake! All the studies the city has commissioned show that we cannot continue to support a transportation system that relies on the single occupancy motor vehicle as the only real choice for citizens to get around town. The system will collapse under its own weight.

Despite the clear and obvious need to change, the City of Omaha's political leaders will fail to make the necessary changes because they afraid that the people of Omaha prefer to rush over the cliff of inaction like a bunch of mindless lemmings!

We must show them that the people of Omaha are actually intelligent, thoughtful, and prefer to have the transportation options that other cities with more progressive leadership have already begun to implement. Rush hour congestion, dependence on foreign oil, and the negative health consequences of inactive lifestyle are not what Omahans want.

Thanks,
Dave

riders and volunteers for Embrey century

2011-08-09T15:04:00.001-05:00

Sunday, September 18 is the date for the Seth Embrey Memorial Century for brain cancer patient care.

We encourage you to ride in this event!

We also need volunteers for registration, parking, water stops, route support, lunch, etc.

If you can help us or have a friend or family member who can help, contact Joey Miller joey.miller@ops.org

Thanks, Dave

monday mtb ride at tranquility 08.08

2011-08-08T14:03:00.000-05:00

Even with a dew point of 70 and air temp of mid 80's, the heat index will be 25 degrees cooler than last Monday. Let's enjoy the ride! Leave the Fort St kiosk around 6:05.

peeps prefer heat

2011-08-02T15:26:00.000-05:00

11 or so for 118 heat index, plus other groups including Omaha Devo were out and about. Great time at Paul's for post ride recovery refreshments. Thanks Brian and Dave for rehydration.

Jim and Karl were out for the first time on TP. Jim shaking off a couple years of cobwebs for the upcoming xterra at Branched Oak and Karl recently moved to O from Lincoln. Welcome.

Great seeing Chris on a bike instead of the end of a rogue hoe or some other trail tool. Working in 140 degree auto shop, the bike ride was cool relatively.

Thanks for the ride all.

monday mtb ride at tranquility 08.01

2011-08-01T09:22:00.000-05:00

Now we can enjoy the dog days of August! I think that is what we experienced through most of July. Another heat index of 105, 96 plus humidity and sunshine. We are at about as hot as it gets and people still ride. This doesn't happen in the winter extremes.

Let's enjoy the ride! Will leave the Fort St kiosk about 6:05 or so. Casual pace to have some wind for cooling.

a few tweaks to mary

2011-07-27T00:22:00.001-05:00

Finally remembered to order my fender stays last week. Been riding around without a front fender because of one too many hits from toe overlap.

Have the fender closer to the tire and no toe overlap yet, need to try my winter shoes still.

Also added a matching leather mud flap to the back fender to balance out the front. Actually needed to block stuff from hitting grandson in trailer.

One more thing, trying a Brooks B17 saddle. The leather is tight requiring me to point the nose down even though I had it pointed up slightly on previous saddles. I often ride to work in regular shorts and it is more uncomfortable, but I've only ridden it for a day.

monday mtb ride at tranquility 07.25

2011-07-25T14:08:00.000-05:00

Suppose to be cooler today but it still feels hot to me, but am thankful I get to ride tonight.

Leave the shop at 6pm, ride by kiosk about 6:05 for those who want to ride with.

Enjoy the ride!

tequila tasting bike ride to wohlners Sat 09.10

2011-07-18T16:11:00.001-05:00

Note: New date!

The tequila tasting bike ride has been scheduled for Saturday, September 10 at 5PM.

Note that this is a Saturday, not a Sunday!!

	Saturday, September 10 · 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Location	Bike Masters/Wohlners

Created By	Bike Masters Cycling

More Info	Sponsored by the Euro-trash Trust Fund Baby Group! Meet at Bike Masters at 5PM. Ride your bike to Wohlners in Aksarben Village. Tequila tasting with gourmet food. Shuttle service back to Bike Masters available for you and your bike. $35 per person. Reservation required. Pre-payment required. Call Dave at Bike Masters, 402-964-1080 If you have a spouse or friend who wants to participate without a bike, they can meet us at Wohlners at 6PM.

Remember, you can have a friend or spouse meet us at Wohlners if they do not want to ride.

You can also have a non-alcohol or alternative alcohol menu.

Call me.

Dave

monday mtb ride at tranquility 07.18

2011-07-18T13:49:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday All,
I know it's going to be a hot ride this evening. But there are chips, hotdogs and buns left over from the race to be consumed. There will be a smoky grill in the driveway suitable for keeping the bugs away and grilling. I'll have some fans blowing in the garage.
-Paul

There you have it. Leave the shop at 6 for a leasurily lap or so and then to Paul's for post ride carbs. I'm sure Paul has room in his fridge to keep beer or soda cold while we ride.

Enjoy the ride!

OWL from bike support view

2011-07-17T16:49:00.001-05:00

Greg, Paul, and I supported the OWL Ride Saturday night. We got there about 9pm with time to ride around for about an hour before setting up shop.

The night was a hot one with a breeze to help cool things down. Most of the early stuff was pumping up tires, one tube replaced, and some brakes adjusted. Pulled the b.o.b. trailer with supplies during the ride. Just a few deraileur adjustments.

The ride was amazing! Seeing that many cyclists (1850 preregistered plus more registering onsite) starting in waves was cool. What struck me was the number of women riding, and number of families doing the long, 16 mile, route. Riding mtb trails and commuting, I see 95% men. On Saturday night, probably 50% were women! What this tells me is women like riding as much as men. Concerning commuting, the more infrastructure that separates bikes from cars is put in place, the more women AND men will opt for biking to their destinations.

My hat's off to the OWL organization for the many, many volunteers directing at intersections and manning the perches (rest stops)! Great Job! Though I fell into going because Dan couldn't make it, I look forward to supporting the 2012 OWL Ride! And good money was raised for Omahans with disabilities.

I also want to thank Paul and Greg for helping and riding with! There was a time prior to the start when all three of us were busy pumping up tires and working on bikes. We had a great time!

Here's a link to some pics Paul took.

volunteers needed for races at tranquility this weekend

2011-07-05T07:29:00.002-05:00

Nebraska Lottery Psycowpath mtb series continues this Saturday with a time trial at Lewis and Clark Monument, a short track race at Tranquility Park; and Sunday, a cross country race at Tranquility Park.

We need the following volunteers at Tranquility:

Saturday Personnel:

11:30 setup and STXC course marking

12:00-16:00 2 waivor/chip handout; 1 announcer

13:30-17:00 2 help scoring (read bib numbers, write bib numbers); 1 give out awards, 1 course marshal position,

*** no grill Saturday, just water and gatoraid ***

17:30 teardown

18:00 xc course marking

Sunday Personnel:

09:30 setup tents

10:00 2 to check course and marking

10:00-11:45 2 wavior/chip handout; 2 parking attendents

12:00-15:30 2 help scoring;

12:00-13:00 1 sweeper for Juniors

12:00-14:00 2 course marshal positions (camelhumps, ridgeline); 2 to tape off innerloop bypass and north fort intersection after juniors/ftimers

12:00-16:00 2 grill;

13:30-16:30 1 announce and 1 give medals/awards

17:00 teardown

The net proceeds from these two races pay for BMCC's half of the payments for Tigger.

Please rsvp your help to tpmbt at cox dot net.
Thanks for your help! Dale

06.27 monday night mtb at tranquility cancelled

2011-06-27T06:57:00.000-05:00

Great trailwork done yesterday at TP. Let's give the tread time to dry from the 1.13 inches of rain last night. Don't ride muddy trails, please.

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 06.20

2011-06-20T14:19:00.000-05:00

Spot checked trail and it is dry enough to ride.

Leave shop at 6 and Fort St kiosk about 6.05.

low 90's and muggy, let's loose a little weight.

monday mtb ride at tranquility 06.13

2011-06-13T09:02:00.000-05:00

Leave the shop at 6, leave the Fort St kiosk about 6:10.

Reminder, everything south of the feeder creek - southhill climb, ice loop, southhill descent, south creek flats, inner loop - is closed till the city finishes removing dirt for levy work and we can build a reroute for lost trail.

Enjoy the ride!

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 06.06

2011-06-05T19:53:00.000-05:00

For those who like heat or want to shed some weight, we will be riding Tranquility mtb trail Monday night. Temps are forecast around 95 with heat index in the low 100's.

Chris talked to caretaker Joe and planner Dennis. The trails south of the feeder creek in the prairie are closed because dirt is being taken out to shore up levies. We need to stay out of their way. We will need to reroute the top portion of the Southhill Descent again.

Leaving the shop at 6 and the kiosk about 6:05.

Enjoy the ride!

bike-wine-food chile/argentina

2011-06-05T19:29:00.000-05:00

Sunday, June 12

If you haven't made your reservation, please contact me asap.
We have to know our head count earlier than usual due to ordering fish.

Invite friends! It is a very casual ride which pretty much anyone who has a bike can do.

6 wines
6 plates of food
$35 plus tax

alcohol free option

Shuttle service available for trip back

Dave
402.964.1080

Thanks for help at Swanson Trail Day

2011-06-05T08:39:00.002-05:00

Big thanks to all the Bike Masters folks who came down to Swanson to help with the trail day. We exceeded the THOR trail day goals and added a few things to help out with fun things to ride and erosion control.

Martin

Thanks Bike Masters

2011-05-29T20:26:00.003-05:00

I just want to thank you guys again for helping me through the warranty process, and show off the pictures of my new frame. I built it up this weekend, and am ready to ride it tomorrow.

marriage proposal at bike masters

2011-05-28T09:37:00.001-05:00

We get a call at 7pm Friday asking if we can do a bike fitting at 7:30. Dan asks what level of fitting are they looking for? He says to fit a woman. He wants to propose to her at the shop and buy a bike for her tonight. Dan is all excited and says that would be awesome. After he gets off the phone and tells us, we think it is a prank call.

7:30 rolls around and no couple. Leaning more towards prank. 7:40 and a car rolls up and a couple walk in. They walk back to the women's clothing section, talk a little, then he gets down on one knee and proposes! She says, "Are you kidding?" "I knew you were going to do this!"

Here is a pic of the kiss sealing the "yes"

We applaud and are excited to be a part of the moment!

Coach works with them on the bike. Come to find out, she wants a Pinarello. They decide to come back for a full fit service and have time to choose from all the color options.

May God grant them a lifetime of adventure, growing together, and bike riding.

monday mtb ride at tranquility - 05.23

2011-05-23T07:29:00.000-05:00

After the rains and a couple days to dry, the trail should be good to ride tonight. Will be at the Fort St kiosk at 124th around 6:05.

Had a Teen Serve crew out last Friday to pick up trash and widen the Fort St Loop switchback section along Fort St. Unusual to hope trail workers will become trail users.

From last week's ride at the post nursery regrouping point:

Let's enjoy the ride!

ladies' maintenance clinic - tues may 31

2011-05-21T17:00:00.000-05:00

At the end of the first two months of the Tuesday Ladies Ride, Sandy has scheduled a Ladies' Bike Maintenance Clinic on Tuesday, May 31 from 6 - 7:30 pm.

All ladies are welcome! We are addressing questions and mechanical problems found on the ladies' ride.

See you here!

feeling good on monday's ride - ridgeline

2011-05-18T18:03:00.000-05:00

Paul and Mike on the Ridgeline at Tranquility.

A view looking up the line.

Was excited about the cooler weather, low to mid 60's with sunshine and little wind is about perfect in my book. Trail was 'tacky fast' as RF says, and it was like that even before the cat 3's dried it out. 8-)

Tires were sticking and I was seeing the edges as berms through much of the older trail. Stepped up the effort between regroupings to or just beyond sustainable power output.

After regrouping at the end of the Ridgeline, someone mentioned riding it backwards. I wanted to attempt it sometime and decided this was the time. Made it on my first attempt.

Almost came to a track stand a couple times trying to turn the 36x18 gear over the short steep climbs. It's been a long time since I pulled on the bars that hard. I was out of breath by the end and my abs, not legs, were the sorest. I took the easy way back down, not sure I could ride back Ridgeline successfully. Thanks to Mike who was sporting a new chess harness for his camera, he caught my attempt on video.

Finally, I rode the North Fort St addition at speed. Surpised how the trail is smoothing out, though there are a few bone shakers still. About 14 minutes which is good. Figure cat 1 needed to take at least 8 minutes for a 35 minute lap to make the winners ride at least 1 hr 45 mins for 3 laps. I haven't compared times between Ridgeline and the regular way but my guess is its a wash.

Tranquilty races are July 9 and 10, seven weeks from this weekend.

Enjoy the ride!

omaha devo at tranquility

2011-05-18T17:11:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the May 16 Omaha Devo kids.

Session 1 ends on Saturday, May 21. They will take a few weeks off and then start session 2 in late June.

If you have kids from 5 to 18 and want them to learn some mtb'ing skills, but more importantly, have fun riding their bike, search for Omaha Devo on facebook and sign them up. Heard from several parents who said their kids learned better with the coaches and their peers than from dad or mom.

monday mtb ride at tranquility 05.16

2011-05-16T11:35:00.000-05:00

Sunshine and 60's, it doesn't get much better than this. Hopefully trail is a little soft so we can ride and smooth out trail along the Big Papio.

Trailwork via riding, it doesn't get much easier though a couple extra loops on the new stuff may be a little monotinous.

Leave the shop at 6 and the kiosk about 6:05.

Enjoy the ride!

These enjoyed ride last week:

bike-wine-food - 06.12

2011-05-12T10:12:00.000-05:00

The next Bike-Wine-Food event is only one month away. Sunday June 12. We already have 8 people signed up! There are 30 spots available, so call me asap to reserve your spot.
The theme is wine and food of Chile and Argentina.
Don't forget that you can request an alcohol free option or a beer/ale option if you don't drink wine.

Don't forget that you can have a friend or spouse meet us there, if they do not ride a bike.
Details are on facebook: Bike Masters Cycling: events
I will be posting the food menu soon.

Call 402.964.1080 and ask for me.
Thanks, Dave

ultimate urban adventure race - 06.04 in omaha

2011-05-12T10:04:00.000-05:00

From activateomaha:
Before you dismiss this, consider forming a three person team. You don’t have to be a super athlete- you just need to know and/or remind yourself how to ride your bike. There is a lot of walking, stopping to do the challenge, and laughing at one another, Compare it to the Amazing Race, but in Omaha.
This is about strategy and getting to know your city and FUN!! Guilt your neighbor, force your teen-aged child, bribe your spouse. Regardless how you do it, join us for a great day!
I am ALWAYS here to tell you the reasons WHY you should put a team together- and in the famous words of someone- YOU CAN DO IT! And you know how to get a hold of me.
Warm and active regards,
Tammie

Register at http://www.activateomaha.org/

Platte River Battle Royale this Saturday 05.07

2011-05-02T12:30:00.000-05:00

Nebraska Lottery Psycowpath mtb race this Saturday at Platte River State Park. See http://www.psycowpath.com/ for the dirt.

BMCC guys and gals, check over your bike and bring it in to the shop asap if you need us to work things out.

monday mtb ride at tranquility 05.02

2011-05-02T11:56:00.000-05:00

With the rain last Monday, it's been a couple weeks since I've been around the Tranquility trail. Will be seeing more green this ride.

We leave the shop at 6 pm and ride by the kiosk and then hit the north Fort St side first. Word has it Chris worked his magic for a little surprise on the Southhill Descent.

Enjoy the ride!

monday night mtb ride 04.18 at tranquility

2011-04-18T13:30:00.000-05:00

Let's ride tranquility tonight. Leaving the shop at 6 pm, ride by kiosk about 6:05.

old timers mind

2011-04-18T13:28:00.000-05:00

So I'm changing into my work shoes and realize I rode in with this pair of shoes:

monday mtb ride at tranquilty

2011-04-16T15:11:00.001-05:00

We ride Monday nights at Tranquility Park. Leave the shop (129th and Fort) at 6 pm and ride by the Fort St. kiosk about 6:05.

This is a fun pace, no-drop ride with multiple stops for regrouping. Great for those unfamiliar with the trail or wanting to ride with a group.

Watch the bmcc blog for go/no go for the Monday ride based on trail conditions.

Let's enjoy the ride!

circumnavigation of omaha, sun apr 17

2011-04-14T14:30:00.000-05:00

Bike Masters
Annual Spring Century
April 17, 2011
Start Time: 8:00 AM
Leave from Bike Masters parking lot, 129 & Fort
Ride Leader: Dave R
SAG Vehicle: Darwin P
This ride is intended for experienced cyclists who are sure they can complete a century ride. You are expected to carry everything you need to complete the ride. There will be opportunities to get food and drink along the way. We hope that the group can stay together as much as possible, or break up into smaller groups that can ride together. There will be a support vehicle from Bike Masters until 4:00 PM.

If you are out later than that and do not want to SAG in, you will be on your own.
This ride takes us around the perimeter of Omaha on a variety of roads and highways. Hope you enjoy the varied and scenic tour.

See comments for cue sheet.

monday night mtb ride 04.11 at tranquility

2011-04-11T16:29:00.000-05:00

Beautiful weather. Treadwork done yesterday on the north fort st expansion. Leave the shop at 6, stop by the kiosk about 6:05. I won't be here. You know the routine. Welcome the new people and regroup for no drop ride.

Enjoy the ride!
Dale

monday night mtb ride 04.04 at tranquility

2011-04-04T15:54:00.000-05:00

Windy, dry, sunny. Let's ride! Leaving shop at 6, stop by Fort St kiosk about 6:05 and ride Big Papio loop first. Pleasant surprise in store.

From Mar 21 ride:

monday night mtb ride 03.21

2011-03-21T14:33:00.000-05:00

Hopefully the rain will hold off till later tonight.
We are riding Tranquility and checking out the roughed in north Tranquility. Some bushwacking required. 8-)

Leave the shop at 6 pm.

Let's enjoy the ride!

Bikes and Kids

2011-03-19T15:35:00.003-05:00

We are planning to help a bunch of kids fix their bikes and show them how to ride trails. On April 16th from 10 am to 2pm at Adams Park Community Center 3320 John Creighton Blvd. Lots of folks from from THOR, Activate Omaha, YMCA, Community Bike shop, Florence Christian Church and Bike Masters are helping out.

Help is still needed. We will need LOTS of schrader valve inner tubes in kids sizes like 13,16,18 and so on. See Dale at the shop if you want to toss a couple in the box. We will be having another clinic at FCC on May 21, so any overage will get a kids bike going this spring.
If you want to do repairs, lead trail rides and coach or just show up and be nice to kids, please let me know. All help is needed. We found a HUGE need last year so we don't want to let kids down. Contact me at poloscab@yahoo.com

Thank you so much... Dan

tranquility is open for riding!

2011-03-16T15:00:00.000-05:00

http://thor-trails.blogspot.com/2011/03/tranquility-is-open-for-riding.html

Please stay on the tread and ride through any wet spots so they will dry more quickly.

The 2011 Bike Omaha Commuter Challenge

2011-03-16T14:55:00.003-05:00

Let's get the word out early about this years Bike Omaha Commuter Challenge.

Activate Omaha wants us to join them in a bike commuting contest between businesses/organizations in our area. Are you already riding to work? Why not keep track of those miles on Activiate Omaha's web site. Track your progress on their "Cycle-Tracker" web site. You'll earn 10 points per trip and 1 point per mile. I logged in to the site today and it looks like Bike Masters still has a team setup for this. Every trip and mile counts towards making Omaha more bicycle friendly!!
Go to the Activate Omaha Cycle-Tracker Link to sign up.

NEW FOR 2011: EXPANDED DATES...May 1 - October 1!

Stay tuned for more updates, AND "like" them (Bike Omaha Commuter Challenge) on Facebook!

tp mud, heard swanson also no go

2011-03-14T17:26:00.000-05:00

I did this so you don't have to. Please don't ride the trails yet. Hopefully in another couple days, the non tree sections will be rideable. Maybe by this weekend, the trees too???

Tree sections have a lot of slime. Prairie areas have short sections, usually where it is in shade for part of the day. Entrance to southhill climb is slime, didn't go any farther.

Below is west entrance. This is similar to the tree sections.

monday night mtb ride 03.14 not at tranquility

2011-03-14T17:04:00.000-05:00

Just checked Tranquility and it is not rideable. 8-( The tree sections are slimey and sections of the prairie are still slimey. Maybe in a couple days???

Will ride pavement and gravel tonight.

Leave the shop at 6. Enjoy the ride!

monday night mtb ride 03.07 urban to elkhorn

2011-03-07T12:03:00.000-06:00

The Omaha Transportation Master Plan is having a presentation tonight at the Commons Ground Community Center in Elkhorn starting at 6:30 tonight. I plan to ride there from the shop; its about 9 miles or so; a little west of 192nd and Blondo.

I would like to leave earlier, say around 5:30 to give enough time for a causal ride out there. If you want to ride with but can't make it till later, let me know. I will wait in order to ride out with someone. If you want to just ride out with me part way and then return, that's cool too. Probably won't get back till 9pm.

Temps around freezing or above today so I would not ride singletrack tonight.

Let's enjoy the ride!

Dale
402.964.1080

community input sought for omaha transportation plan

2011-03-06T02:25:00.001-06:00

The theme for updating the transportation plan is to move people, not necessarily cars. The variety of people moving modes are: walking, biking, transit, automobiles, freight, air.

Even if you don't have specific input, I encourage you to visit a workshop and see what are some of the ideas on the drawing boards. If you see something you like, mention it so the planners get an idea of how strong the community supports that concept.

From Derek, Omaha city planner:

Public Design Workshop #1 (Focusing on areas outside I-680)
Where: Common Ground Community Center (1701 Veterans Drive Omaha, Nebraska 68022)

When: March 7th through March 10th.
 Monday - 6:30 pm Public Presentation
 Tuesday - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Studio Open to the Public)
 Wednesday - 10:00 am - 7:00 pm (Studio Open to the Public)
 Thursday - 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (Studio Open to the Public)
 Thursday - 6:30 pm Public Presentation

Public Design Workshop #2 (Focusing on areas inside I-680)
Where: Omaha Public Schools Administration Building (3215 Cuming Street Omaha, Nebraska 68131)

When: March 21st through March 24th.
 Monday - 6:30 pm Public Presentation
 Tuesday - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm (Studio Open to the Public)
 Wednesday - 10:00 am - 7:00 pm (Studio Open to the Public)
 Thursday - 10:00 am - 3:00 pm (Studio Open to the Public)
 Thursday - 6:30 pm Public Presentation

For more information please visit: www.cityofomaha.org/tmplan

monday night mtb ride 02.28

2011-02-28T12:41:00.000-06:00

Leaving the shop at 6. Depends on how warm it get whether we can ride dirt tonight. Will be game time decision. Let's enjoy the ride!

Trek Up The Tower 2011

2011-02-27T19:22:00.008-06:00

Thanks to Daren, Lynn and Jason O. the Bike Masters team finished 7th out of 69 teams in the community team category. All 8 team members were among the 1417 climbers that made it to the top, some of us not as fast as we had hoped. Complete results can be found here: www.trekupthetower.org

Ivan Marsh won the event for the 5th straight year with a time of 4:27, just missing his 2009 record of 4:24.

The firefighters who climb the 40 floors in full gear were late for their start time because they were still fighting a fire. They showed up smelling like smoke and headed up the stairs.

As this event becomes more popular the field is full earlier each year, this year on January 1, so if you are thinking about it for next year register early. Registration opens November 1, 2011 for the 2012 Trek.

Thanks to all who participated, thanks Paul for the photos, thanks Bike Masters for sponsoring us and a special thanks to all the volunteers who helped put on this event.

meeting for those wanting to represent at races

2011-02-22T14:13:00.000-06:00

The Bike Masters Cycling Club is having a meeting for those who are interested in racing under the club banner or are interested in helping with races.

Road racing, triathlons, and mountain bike racing are included.

Thursday, February 24, at 7 PM.
Please RSVP to Dave or Dale: 402-964-1080

monday mtb ride 02.21 - singletrack tonight!

2011-02-21T10:45:00.000-06:00

With all the warm weather, it is difficult to ride in subfreezing temps again, but if you want to get on singletrack before Spring, this is an opportunity you shouldn't miss.

The snow has melted and the ground has firmed up with frost. Let's refresh our singletrack skills and scout out the tread conditions after the big melt.

Leave the shop at 6 pm.
Let's enjoy the ride!

the hills won monday night

2011-02-16T11:23:00.000-06:00

After some warm up hills through neighborhoods to Ida, Eric, Brian, and I headed west. The hills felt long and worked us over well. Second day on road hills for me and my legs were shot riding home from the shop. But it was good to ride outside in the fresh, seasonally warm air!

I got on the scale the next day, gained a couple pounds and lost 1 percent of body fat - even trade. So the fat was traded for muscle. Encouraging that back to back days on hills made a measurable difference to go along with the perceived tiredness in the legs.

monday mtb ride 02.14 what a difference a week makes

2011-02-14T09:00:00.000-06:00

Last Monday and Tuesday, I rode to work and back in temps around 0. Felt like I was pedaling through mud. Could have been all of Zac's birthday cake and ice cream I ate those days. Or the 16psi in the tires. But even airing them up to 30, pedaling was perceived more difficult than regular. Maybe the density of the cold air was approaching the viscosity of water.

Compared to yesterday's ride at 60 degrees with Greg, Dave, and Paul - the difference was night and day. Pavement and gravel felt good and the hills cause me to breath hard, helping reinvigorate the blood.

Will need to be careful tonight, temps will be around the freezing point turning the melt into black ice. Will stick to streets, maybe west out Ida to gravel and back Fort St?

Leave the shop at 6 pm. Enjoy the ride!

monday night mtb ride 02.07

2011-02-07T14:39:00.002-06:00

Single digits for tonight's mtb ride at 6 pm. Let's enjoy the ride!

monday night mtb ride 01.31

2011-01-31T09:46:00.000-06:00

Forecast for 1.5" of snow by 6 pm. That would be just right for a snow ride around Standing Bear Lake, streets, etc.

Leave the shop at 6pm.
Let's enjoy the ride!

monday night mtb ride on cement 01.24

2011-01-24T11:52:00.000-06:00

Dropping to my lowest gear 36x22 in case Standing Bear Lake still isn't plowed. Cement trail and neighborhood streets with seasonally warm weather should provide a great opportunity for some outside seat time tonight.

Leave the shop at 6pm. Let's enjoy the ride!

finally first tracks

2011-01-24T11:44:00.000-06:00

Got out Sunday afternoon hoping to hit the Standing Bear Lake trail before it was plowed. City is doing a much more timely job of clearing trails this year compared to last year thanks to our bike coordinator, Carlos.

Hard effort to keep momentum but it was cool. Can see pedal strokes in the snow. Any uphill grade was quickly noticed and caused me to go anarobic.

Close up of snow depth, about 8 inches. Pedals and and mud flap draging in the snow.

Very challenging in unplowed snow with car traffic. 40C studded tires would break through the packed snow while the 52C with <20 psi gave better traction and floated ontop more.

Studded tires increase traction on solid ice, but low pressure fatter tires work better on loose or hard packed snow.

monday night mtb ride on cement 01.17

2011-01-16T20:36:00.000-06:00

Will check Tranquility but expect her to be unrideable. Standing Bear Lake is plowed. Neighborhood streets will be fun on packed snow.

Leave shop at 6 pm.
Enjoy the ride!

The Monday Night MTB Ride is Cancelled

2011-01-10T09:11:00.002-06:00

Due to the deep powder with more on the way there will be no Monday Night Ride tonight. But, if you own some snowshoes, please do several laps to pack down the snow into something fun to ride. :-)

first monday mtb ride of '11

2011-01-03T10:54:00.000-06:00

Welcome to 2011! Looks like an average weather day leading to a nice night ride at Tranquility.

Leave the shop at 6 pm.

Enjoy the ride!

route to west papio for 12.20 ride

2010-12-20T14:08:00.000-06:00

Bike Masters to West Papio trail

Sort of a back alley route. Leave the shop at 6 pm tonight for Lake Zorinski. See you at the shop or along the way.

winter overhaul special through 02.06.11

2010-12-19T22:27:00.001-06:00

This is the time to get your bike running like new. Regular $199 overhaul for $99 + parts. Bring your bike in for a free estimate on parts.

http://www.bikemastersomaha.com/specials.shtml

monday mtb ride 12.20

2010-12-19T21:33:00.000-06:00

Weather forecast has above freezing temps in the afternoon but below freezing by ride time. If tranquility is slimey, will flex to an urban ride to zorinski and back.

Leave the shop at 6 pm.

Enjoy the ride!

better than expected

2010-12-13T21:27:00.000-06:00

Brian and Eric joined me tonight for a very enjoyable ride. Fortunately, we were at the upper end of the teens so only 8 degrees colder than last Monday. A little wind on the south side but very tolerable.

We were not first bike tracks, probably 2-4 bike already out there. About a handful or so of drifts requiring walking, a lot of bare dirt on south side and bare/snow covered tread in woods. We took an hour to complete one lap.

I would encourage others to get out there and ride before it gets much sunshine or closer to freezing and solidifies. The snow is still pretty crystalized and easy to ride through. Only about 1-2 inches consistently on the north side, it doesn't get much easier than this to ride in snow. Great for dusting off or developing the snow riding skills.

monday mtb ride at tranquility 12.13

2010-12-13T14:43:00.000-06:00

We can't be a teen again but we can ride in the teens! First teen ride of the Winter, I mean Fall!

Leave the shop at 6 pm. Slow ride to limit wind chill.

Enjoy the ride!

Seth Embrey Memorial Century for Brain Cancer Research

2010-12-08T17:46:00.000-06:00

Sunday, September 18, 2011 · 8:00am - 4:00pm

Join us for our annual fall century ride. Fundraiser for brain cancer research.
Three different ride lengths available. Volunteers welcome if you don't want to ride. SAG support provided. Lunch at turnaround point.

New website for this ride!!! 100forone.com

6 hrs of troy

2010-12-08T17:41:00.000-06:00

Saturday, January 15, 2011 · 7:00am - 11:00am

Indoor cycling endurance event. Bring your bike and trainer. Spinervals videos and selected classic movies. Come for all or part of it!

12 hrs of Troy

2010-12-08T17:36:00.000-06:00

Saturday, February 26, 2011 · 7:00am - 7:00pm

The ultimate endurance test! Twelve hours on the bike! Even more daunting, twelve hours of Coach Troy! Bring your bike and trainer! Everyone who completes at lest 6 hours gets a commemorative t-shirt.

12.06 mnr warmer than last week

2010-12-06T23:51:00.000-06:00

27 degrees and little or no wind. Rode one and a half laps - about the same time outside as last week but the hands were not as cold (had warmer gloves); the toes were about the same tingle as last week. Paul was checking out a new merino wool belaclava and gloves. Along with Eric, Brian, and myself, we left the shop for the cold coast down to Tranquility. Ran into Marco at the top of the southhill. He missed the start but finished up the lap with us. This is Marco's first year riding the cold weather. Thanks for checking out the cold night rides with us, Marco. Talked briefly with Mark Mc. who finishing up a couple laps. I haven't seen him for a couple years.

Riding with the grass frozen and sparkles reflecting our light back at us from 100's of points is pretty cool.

Last year, this ride was in about 2-3 inches of snow, and a couple days later we got 6+ inches and didn't ride singletrack till March or April.

Enjoyed the ride!

that was a cold mnr

2010-11-30T16:22:00.000-06:00

Had 5 fools, I mean, advid riders at 11.29 mnr. 25 degrees, 10-15 wind, 15-20 windchill. We just road half laps in the woods. 2 laps and the fingers/toes were stinging; two did one more and my fingers were hurting; had to run them under water back at the shop, but I didn't cry this time. Probably should have stopped at two laps with an hour in the cold. Thanks for the ride Brian, Aaron, Eric, Mark. Weather and darkness changes the ride on familiar trails. That's cool, and in this case, cold. 8-)

monday night mtb at tranquility 11.29

2010-11-29T14:59:00.000-06:00

Leaving the shop at 6, ride by kiosk about 6:05. May have flurries with swirling wind. Let's enjoy the ride!

monday mtb ride at tranquility 11.22

2010-11-21T22:45:00.001-06:00

Will ride, weather permitting. Leave shop at 6, at kiosk about 6:05.

We will ride the beta release of the trail north of Fort St. No tread work has been done so this will be rough and slow. Corridor is clear of 12" grasses (only 3.5" now 8-), 4' dead weed stocks, branches, etc. See THOR blog for more trail info.

Pics from 11.08 mnr:

monday night mtb ride at tranquility - 11.15 cancelled

2010-11-15T16:48:00.000-06:00

Sections of the trail are slimy so the ride is cancelled tonight.

As an alternative, future plans for cycling infrastructure are being discussed at the Courtyard Marriott in Aksarben Village, 1625 S. 67th, starting at 6pm tonight.

MTB Riders needed for TV Shoot 11/17

2010-11-11T12:06:00.000-06:00

Iowa Public Television's new recreation and conservation series, Iowa Outdoors wants to feature mountain biking around Council Bluffs in a future episode in late Spring/Summer 2011 and particularly the courses at Lewis and Clark Monument and Lake Manawa.

They plan on being here on 11/17 to video riders on trail. We need riders to be at L&C and ready to ride at 11am sharp. Please let me know if you can participate.

The bigger benefit is they want to feature THOR as well and that may be shot on the same day or in the spring during an actual trail day.

It should only take an hour or so. Come on out and show off our trails!

Contact me ASAP if you can attend. roxzanne dot abbott at gmail dot com.

Thanks!

Trek Up The Tower 2011

2010-11-10T12:59:00.004-06:00

Mark your calenders for Saturday February 26, 2011. Bike Masters has a team in this event again this year if you want to participate. Everyone is welcome.

Its time to get registered!

http://trekupthetower.org/ for more info

monday night mtb ride at tranquility - 11.01

2010-11-08T13:25:00.000-06:00

11.01 mnr fort st loop:

We have been blessed with two summers this year, the regular one that is too hot and the last 8 weeks at beautiful temps with blue sky.

We will ride under a black sky tonight with unusually warm temps.

Leave the shop at 6pm, ride by kiosk about 6:05.

Enjoy the ride!

monday mtb ride at tranquility 11.01

2010-11-01T00:03:00.000-05:00

10.25 mnr at Fort St. parking lot:

10.25 mnr at kiosk getting ready for second lap:

Nice cool temps and low wind. City lights, star lights, bike lights - they're all pretty from the seat of a bike. Will start with the medium gloves and wool socks but bringing the heavier gloves, shoe boots, and wind jacket in the camelbak for backup. Fingers and toes get cold on me first.

Leave the shop at 6 pm, ride by the Fort St kiosk abot 6:05.

Regroup several times per lap. Second lap we seem to find a good pace everyone likes, plus the temps are cooler and we don't want to stand around not generating heat.

Enjoy the ride!

mary to mary2

2010-10-31T23:29:00.000-05:00

I've been riding mary since the Fall of 06, fixed her in Dec of 07, and haven't went back to the free ride since.

Though she was poached this Spring, Ananth brought her back to me. The marathon races over the years had my tired butt riding heavy on the seat with skinny 40c non squish tires. After the Branched Oak race, I heard a creak and found a cracked seat tube just above the seat stays:

I talked with the Haro, sent in some pictures on a Thursday, and had a replacement frame the next Tuesday! But I kept putting off the build and riding the cracked frame over a month. The crack was growing so I finally moved all the parts over. The old headset was toast so I upgraded to a Chris King. Replaced the bb, my third or fourth one.

I then went back to 50c+ fat tires since I'm not commuting much beyond riding to work or Tranquility. I've ridden Mary2 on a couple mnr's.

Saturday, I mounted some stainless steel Gilles Berthoud fenders. Will take the maiden singletrack voyage with them on the mnr tomorrow. I hope the fenders are stiff enough so the struts don't bounce into the sidewalls, otherwise I will have to go back to the 40c tires again.