Today’s Topic – Required Reading

OK, you should consider THIS as required reading. If you’re a roadie, you’ll probably not get it. If you’re a weight wienie, you’ll discount it as preposterous. If you are an Enlightened Roller, you’ll get it.

Secondly, I received the following in my email inbox this morning:

Wine and Water

To my friend who enjoys a glass of wine
and those who don't.

As Ben Franklin said:
In wine there is wisdom,
In beer there is freedom,
In water there is bacteria.

In a number of carefully controlled trials,
Scientists have demonstrated that if we drink 1 liter of water each day, at the end of the year we would have absorbed more than 1 kilo of Escherichia coli,
(E. Coli) - bacteria found in feces.

In other words, we are consuming
1 kilo of poop.

However, we do NOT run that risk when
Drinking wine & beer (or tequila, rum, whisky or other liquor), because alcohol has to go through a purification
Process of boiling, filtering and/or fermenting.

Remember:
Water = Poop, Wine = Health .

Therefore, it's better to drink wine and talk stupid,
Than to drink water and be full of shit.

There is no need to thank me for this valuable information:
I'm doing it as a public service.

Yeah, the weather is crap, but I rode my bike to work anyway. What else was I going to do? Call in “bad weather, can’t come?” Sell your car, ride your bike, become Enlightened.



Ride On.

Today’s Topic – What I’ve Noticed About Me

I’ve been having a conversation, over the internets, with a bike friend today regarding bike happenings in our fair city. We’ve been talking about advocacy, bike clubs, personalities, and the like.

For those not in the know, a portion of my fair City’s bike trail will be closed for about two (2) full construction seasons (re-opening late fall 2010). This item is pretty near and dear to me as a bike commuter. Today, as I took a step back and looked at the situation and myself, I wondered if I’m taking it (and maybe myself) too seriously.

I have concluded I am not. Instead, I’ve learned something about myself. Which, in itself, is a good thing. What I’ve learned is, because I don’t own a vehicle and driving a vehicle to and from work or to run my day to day life is not an option, I become nearly militant when my way of life (that of a bicycle commuter) is threatened.

Over the next few posts I’ll elaborate on the goings on regarding the construction project and closing. I’ve give my views on what is being done well and what is being done that really sucks and is dogging my cat.

I’m going to try to convey this objectively and not skew what is actually happening. I’ll leave it to you to draw your own conclusions or whether or not to try to have me committed to mental care professionals.


Ride On.

Friday Afternoon Grab Bag

Donkey’s Balls Time

Ninja Droids

Ride On.

Random Crap

You've heard of Death Metal. Now meet DEATH PEDAL!!!

DEATH PEDAL Trailer by Kareem Shehab from Killa Kareem on Vimeo


Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Good News, Bad News

And, part of the good news is actually bad news. Confused yet? Me too. It’s perpetual for me.

I’m no economic genius. I do pay attention to such matters, though. On my internet home page, the page that first pops up when I launch Firefox, I have a few things. One of which is what the stock market it doing. Another is commodity futures prices.

I watch the stock market and the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude (oil) prices. Lately it’s been looking like the stock market may have bottomed out and it making an attempt at climbing. WTI crude oil prices are slowly creeping up past fifty dollars ($50) per barrel.

As I said, I’m no economic genius, but those are the indicators I’m watching as a tip off the economy is moving in the right direction. So, they are both edging up and, hopefully, pointing toward economic recovery. This is the good news.

The bad news is WTI is creeping up. As the economy recovers I would not be at all surprised to see this go as high, or higher, than it was at its peak last summer. I have no clue as to how fast it will climb, or not, just that I would not be surprised to see it there again in the not-too-distant future. You remember $147 per barrel oil and almost (or higher depending on your location) $4.00 per gallon gas? Do you remember the concept of Peak Oil?

I’ll bet the bad news in this scenario makes you as happy as me that we ride a bike as our defacto method of transport.


Ride On.

Twitter Explained – or – Why I Don’t Twitter

In response to the person who suggested I get on the Twitter bandwagon. Just watch these twits.

Ride On.

Today’s Topic – The "Idaho Stop" Law

I was over at Urban Velo and was reading their post regarding the Idaho Stop Law.

The city of Portland is considering adopting “Idaho Stop” legislature. The laws would allow bicyclists to treat stop lights as stop signs, and stop signs as yield signs. The legislature has worked remarkably well in the state of Idaho since 1982, hence the name. However not everyone in Portland is in favor of such laws. In fact, the whole thing has raised quite a bit of controversy, including some rather biased and decidedly unpleasant media coverage. Still, Portland’s bicycle advocacy groups remain hopeful. For more information, visit www.bikeportland.org.

We, we meaning Sioux Falls and / or South Dakota, do not have such a law. Some of us, I guess I shouldn’t speak for anyone else, I ride like the Idaho Stop Law suggests now. And, as previously advertised in a post (which I’m too lazy to try and find), I don’t do it for the sake of breaking the law. I do it safety and convenience.

If bike commuting teaches a roller nothing else, if you do it long enough, you’ll develop good defensive rolling skills. There have been times, even though I had the right of way, I have yielded to a vehicle because of either, their ignorance or their failure to see me, for whatever reason. In the past two (2) years I’ve seen three (3) times when a cage hole has been driving with a smokey treat (cigarette), a cell phone, AND a cup of coffee in their hands. Not sitting at an intersection. Driving.

Having no desire to get smooshed, I have yielded the right of way to morons. But I digress…….

I do now, and will always, ride like the Idaho Stop Law suggests. There have been a few times when a cage hole rolled down a window and alerted me to my “traffic law violation.” I tell them the same thing, “I’ll make you the best fucking deal you’ll ever get. I’ll obey EVERY stop light and stop sign when YOU obey every speed limit.” It shuts those fuckers up immediately.


Ride On.

Today's Topic - Local Important Issue

The following is an email I sent to a list of bikers local to me. If you're one, here you go. I know this is sort of short notice and all, but you're help would be greatly appreciated.

Gringos,

OK, here’s something that really dogs my cat. If you’ve been paying attention, the City has been raising the dikes along the Big Sioux River over the past few years. More is planned for this year and next. Until some of us spoke up, the City provided no alternate routes for Bike Trail closure.

This year’s project will raise the dikes between 41st St and the zoo. Both sides of the river will be raised. This project is slated to start late spring this year AND NOT BE FINISHED UNTIL SOMETIME IN 2010!!!

It is my understanding the bike trail will be closed for the duration of the project. If the bike trail were only used by weekend revelers wanting some recreation on their Huffy’s, I’d not think too much about it. What the City is apparently discounting are those of us who use the bicycle as either our sole, primary, or preferred method of transport.

The weekend rec riders will find elsewhere to ride. It is the bicycle commuters who use the trail to get to and from work who are going to be screwed as things stand. It is also my understanding there is no alternate route planned.

I’ve presented my concern to Sam Trebilcock (with the City Planning Office) and he’s acknowledged my concern and has urged attendance to the Open House on Wednesday. I’ve attached the flyer as a PDF file for your use.

Normally I use this method of communication to announce bike rides or trips or to invite you all along for some of my hi-jinx. This time I’m asking you for something. I’m asking for your attendance at the open house meeting (see attached). It will be optimal if you’d ride your bike there dressed appropriately. It would be awesome to fill the room with rollers to make the biggest impact. It is my intent to present my argument bikes are more than just a recreational toy, people use bikes to get to and from their jobs, the bike trail is one route used by these commuters, and removing this route without providing an alternate is an abomination (I’ve patiently waited for the day I could use “abomination” in an email!).

This is a VERY important issue. If bikers make a stand now, do not allow this project to go forward without a viable alternate route, then we’ll be taking a big step toward more bike infrastructure justification. Doing nothing will demonstrate apathy and an apparent conciliatory attitude that bikes and biking really are nothing more than toys and recreational activities only.

Please be at the open house. You don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to. Your presence will be noticed and is vital to this action step.

~Snakebite~

If you would like to see the PDF open house press release, email me (address is on my profile page here) and I'll send it to you.


Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Weekend Update

The weekend began with a bike ride on Friday night. The S.O. and I met with some others for a bike club ride. Once around the bike trail and an end at Monk’s House of Ale Repute. The weather was great and the ride uneventful. I didn’t count the starters but our numbers reduced significantly once we hit Monk’s. Wimps.

With highs in the upper sixties (60’s), Saturday the S.O. and I did another lap around the trail. The wind was not too bad and we opted for the daring counter-clockwise route. Though the weather was wonderful our four (4) PM departure was perfect to miss the thickest of the weekend revelers.

Saturday night was a return trip to Monk’s. The kErnEl and the Russ were already there. They departed shortly after we left. Just before they left Amy and Beth showed up. I introduced the S.O. to them and they chatted. The S.O. asked Amy what Beth did (for a living). Amy responded, “She’s in corn.” Meaning she works in the corn crop industry. However, the S.O. heard, “She’s in porn.” Much laughter and tears-down-the-cheek wiping later, we regained composure enough to make our way home.

Sunday was non descript with a bit cooler weather, off and on rain, and an activity later. The S.O. and I attended Bill Cosby for the later show at the Pavilion. Bill is getting a bit long in the tooth, but the show was awesome!

So, here we are at another week. The weekends are too short. But, in two (2), we’re heading to Minneapolis for Art Crank.


Ride On.

Saturday Break Down

Ever want to be a super hero? All you need is a nemesis. Apparently.

Ri Opp på.
(Ride On.)

Friday Afternoon Grab Bag

Dude On Drugs Makes Movie

Oh, This Is Why It’s A Bad Idea

Ride On.

If You're Gonna Ride...

...ride in style.

Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Video Post

Mat's Commute from Mat Barlow on Vimeo.





Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Stud Free

I knew riding studded tyres increases rolling resistance. But, holy crap, do the Continental Travel Contacts ever feel effortless! I think I cut at least five (5) minutes off my commute time yesterday.



I run Schwalbe Big Apple 26 x 2.35 tyres on the Big Dummy. Yes, they’re big, but they roll remarkably easy. That, the load carrying capacity, and built in suspension qualities make it my favorite tyre for this bike.

I built the Big Dummy’s wheels using Shimano LX hubs, Velocity Cliffhanger Rims, laced with DT Swiss 14g spokes, with 36 spokes per wheel in a three-cross arrangement. They are serving me very well. It makes me anxious for another great activity I started to do with this bike last year.

Bike camping ! ! !


Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Weekend Update

The weekend kicked off early – sort of. The Full Monte was in town on Thursday night. There’s no better place to meet a fellow Hiawatha Cyclery Saturday Morning Ride rider than Monk’s House of Ale Repute. The S.O. and I met up with him and had a few wonderful libations.

Friday was non-descript but, Spring has pretty much arrived. The S.O. and I did manage Monk’s again where we ran into The Russ, thE kErnEl, and Dirk. Dr. Dope showed up a bit later. Beers were consumed, stories spewed.

Saturday things kicked off proper. In the rest of the world St. Patrick’s Day is tomorrow. Not here. It was this past Saturday. There was a parade and all the wanna-be Irish people were out and about, presumably sucking down what is sometimes marketed as beer tinted green for the occasion. We spent the occasion laying low.

Saturday I did pull the Nokian’s off the Cross Check. I also took the time to wash all the winter grime off. There was a LOT. Later today it goes in for a full tune-up.

Sunday the S.O. and I made a lap around the bike trail. The weather was outstanding despite stiff winds. She rode her one (1) and only bike and I sported the Big Dummy.

The Big Dummy becomes the commuter bike starting tomorrow. With limited space at the apartment some of the bikes are in storage. With the Big Dummy coming out of storeage, two (2) other bikes there that are for sale in the apartment, something had to give. The Cross Check is being put away for a short time.


Ride On.

Friday Afternoon Grab Bag

This Guy REALLY Likes Pussy



Nazi Dinosaurs




Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Why I Intend To Be A Bad American

I was listening to a story on NPR’s Morning Edition regarding the economic recession. According to the story it’s going to take individuals spending, in lieu of saving, (including stimulus money) in order for the recession to end.

Here's a puzzle. But not a very enjoyable one.

Americans need to save more. They also need to spend more because no recovery can take place with consumers on the sidelines.

It was an interesting story. You might consider clicking on the above hot link or HERE to read the whole thing.

So, why am I going to be a bad American? Because I don’t intent to spend. At least not in the short term. I intend to pay off the bit of debt I have and then save, save, save. I’m saving for a big –ish down payment on a house. I’m also going to sock away a “rainy day” fund. I don’t have much of one (1) now. The economic times have taught me a dude ought to have one (1).

I’m going to stand by my vow to never buy anything, excepting a house, on credit again – ever. Paying for today’s (mostly luxury) wants with tomorrow’s paycheck is part of the reason this recession exists. So, in retrospect, maybe I’m being only a short-term bad American but a long-term good one (1). I’m classifying myself as a long-term good one (1) because I’m going to do my part to see that American doesn’t go down the over-extended, living beyond our means, credit induced, recession again.

Collective mistakes have been made. These mistakes are what’s caused this recession. Well, that and the “everything’s fine" and "we don’t need much corporate or banking regulation” attitude of the former administration. I, for one (1), have learned from these mistakes.

I’m not counting on the current administration, and sure as hell not congress, to get us out of this mess. I’m taking matters into my own hands. I’m going to do what I can for number one (#1) (that’s me). I am expecting if I remain fiscally responsible I’ve done my part to avoid putting the economy in the shitter again.


Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Not Much

So, what’s a dude to blog about when there’s nothing going on? OK, maybe there are a few things going on. I'm supposed to be working on two (2) things.

As part of the FAST (Falls Area SingleTrack) work we, in this case I, am applying for a grant to get trails built. Our state has been given approximately one point one million ($1.1 m) dollars to be distributed for projects just like ours. I’ve been charged with filling out the paperwork. I’ll do that this coming weekend – promise.

Secondly, a few of us are supposed to be putting together a presentation depicting our singletrack project to the fine neighborhood residents in which the park we’d like to use is situated. I’ll likely get my end rolling this weekend as well.

It was a cold one yesterday commuting in and home. It’s going to be cold this morning and then things are going to improve, supposedly. As advertised, I’m yanking the studs this weekend regardless. I need to clean up the Cross Check as well. It’s got major winter grime.

It’s also time to retrieve The Big Dummy from hibernation. I’m really looking forward to getting this back! I’ll do some major tune up stuff to the Cross Check and place it in limbo for a bit – I think – maybe, we’ll see. I do love that bike as well. Perhaps I can dream up an alternate plan…..


Ride On.

Today's Topic - Banking!

Welcome to Nationalized Citibank.

The New F***ing Citibank - watch more funny videos

Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Weekend Low Lights

Not much shakin’ this past weekend. Saturday was spent running errands. Sunday, which doubled as my birthday, did see a little riding. Stunt riding was done



to a more or lesser extent. Oh, I almost forgot, beers were consumed at Monk’s House of Ale Repute on Friday. I had a good conversation with Jerry, the owner, about some things bikey. More to come on that topic.

Supposedly Thee Blizzard of ’09 is going to occur today and tonight. We’ll see. I do still have the studs on but plan to yank ‘em this coming weekend.

Other than that there isn’t much happening. I, like you, am sick and tired of snow and cold and am more than ready for true spring.


Ride On.

Friday Afternoon Grab Bag

Guard Dog

Funny Videos | Funny Cartoons | More Video Clips

Tesla Coils – When Will This Hit The Metal Genre?





Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Single Track Update

The Group, FAST (Falls Area SingleTrack), met on Wednesday night for the postpartum discussion regarding the meeting with the Parks and Rec department. I was unable to attend the meeting with the Parks and Rec department and was very curious to get the low-down on the event.

Three (3) of the group gave their assessment of the meeting. I was happy to hear what they had to say. My take on the situation is the City will most likely let us go ahead with our plans. There are two (2) sticking points that I can see, which I’m not going to get into at this early stage of the game.

I will say they are not insurmountable. We’re tackling the first (1st) now with a definite timeline to have this accomplished. Once we have the first (1st) task complete and we have the “full speed ahead” signal, the second (2nd) will become the next immediate hoop. Who knew building (legal) trail was going to require so much red tape cutting? You may have. I didn’t.

It’s all good. We are becoming part of the grand scheme of making our city a better place. The education we’re gaining by doing this is kind of a cool fringe benefit. Finding volunteers has not been an issue and we are moving our agenda forward.


Ride On.

Facebook Explained -or- Why I Don't Facebook

Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Home Sick

I spend Monday and today home sick. Crap. It’s pretty rare I ever do get sick but when I do it’s usually pretty sick. I’m bored as hell but can’t do much because it’s work even walking to the bathroom. Though, I do feel better today than yesterday.

I’m going back to work tomorrow so I won’t die of boredom. This really sucks.


Ride On.

Today’s Topic – Coen Brothers Coal PSA

Clean coal? Yeah, right.



Ride On.