This seems to be a recurring theme with me, one that I don't appreciate very much.
I stop riding for a period of time (in this case, a few months). This time, I was starting to cross train (jogging), and one of my 40-year-old knees wasn't really up to the task. Then, work got crazy, and I got sick with that cold that's going around. That plus family obligations... And I stop working out for the most part.
So, I'm back on the bike again, training for a century in July. Did 22 miles to and from work on Friday, am going to start stepping things up again. Oh, and going to try and lose some weight too, although having dinner at 11pm doesn't really help with that goal. I'm still about 20 pounds down from my all-time heaviest weight, but sure would like to lose some more.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Sunday, January 04, 2009
New Years Resolutions
OK, so I really don't have any. I am going to start riding more (once I get my touring bike back together - I popped a spoke on the rear wheel coming home a couple of weeks ago, and haven't had the chance to replace it and true my wheel), and work on losing some more weight.
My goal is to lose about 20 pounds, which would put me in the 190 range. (I'm 6'2". :) ) At my work, we're having a weight loss contest, and I plan on winning it. Wish me luck! (lol)
My goal is to lose about 20 pounds, which would put me in the 190 range. (I'm 6'2". :) ) At my work, we're having a weight loss contest, and I plan on winning it. Wish me luck! (lol)
Saturday, November 29, 2008
A lot can change in (almost) 11 months
To my two faithful readers - welcome back. :)
Where did I go? I got a new job, which has kept me incredibly busy. The downside of this, too, is that it has made it very difficult to ride to work - the new job is across town (I live in the northwest, it's in the south / central part of town, about 10 miles one way) and is complicated by the fact that I have to see my kids off to school in the morning.
Oddly enough... It just kind of hit me that I've been working way too much, and not really doing much for my health lately. I haven't been working out at all, and am reaping the effects of it - low energy level, just not feeling myself.
Remembering how much I enjoyed the Bike Bakersfield Christmas ride last year (which I'm hoping they'll repeat this year!), I dragged the touring bike out of the garage and got it ready last night. That involved a little bit of rear-wheel truing, adjusting the back brake, and lubing the chain. So, it's pretty much ready to go - just have to get my cold-weather and lighting gear ready.
Ever since I first rebuilt the bike, I've had problems with the rear index shifting. Although I bought decent Shimano bar-end shifters that were indexed for the nine-speed cassette, I went cheap on the rear cassette, going with a 9 speed Nashbar special. It never would shift right, even after fiddling with the adjustment quite a bit.
Anyway, back in January I finally made a couple of additional upgrades to the bike, going to a cartridge bottom bracket, a new crank from Rivendell, and a new 9-speed SRAM chain and mountain bike cassette. (Same Suntour front derailleur as it had when it was a 15 speed - works great for me, why change?) Installing the new cassette and a couple of tweaks - rear indexed shifting works beautifully. Guess the spacing between cogs is just a little off on the cheapo cassettes, enough to throw things off. I can certainly live without indexed shifting, but it is kind of nice to have.
I'm also learning that the $100 wheelset I purchased isn't the best bargain, either. I'm down to about 205 pounds now (from an all-time high of about 230 at the beginning of the year, ugh!), but that plus the gear I carry to work put a lot of stress on wheels. The front cheapo wheel is hanging in there, but the rear wheel (which was replaced with a $75 cheapo wheel) goes out of true easily, has uneven spoke tension... Anyway, I am going to start saving my pennies for a solid, bulletproof rear wheel, either built locally or purchased through Rivendell.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
Where did I go? I got a new job, which has kept me incredibly busy. The downside of this, too, is that it has made it very difficult to ride to work - the new job is across town (I live in the northwest, it's in the south / central part of town, about 10 miles one way) and is complicated by the fact that I have to see my kids off to school in the morning.
Oddly enough... It just kind of hit me that I've been working way too much, and not really doing much for my health lately. I haven't been working out at all, and am reaping the effects of it - low energy level, just not feeling myself.
Remembering how much I enjoyed the Bike Bakersfield Christmas ride last year (which I'm hoping they'll repeat this year!), I dragged the touring bike out of the garage and got it ready last night. That involved a little bit of rear-wheel truing, adjusting the back brake, and lubing the chain. So, it's pretty much ready to go - just have to get my cold-weather and lighting gear ready.
Ever since I first rebuilt the bike, I've had problems with the rear index shifting. Although I bought decent Shimano bar-end shifters that were indexed for the nine-speed cassette, I went cheap on the rear cassette, going with a 9 speed Nashbar special. It never would shift right, even after fiddling with the adjustment quite a bit.
Anyway, back in January I finally made a couple of additional upgrades to the bike, going to a cartridge bottom bracket, a new crank from Rivendell, and a new 9-speed SRAM chain and mountain bike cassette. (Same Suntour front derailleur as it had when it was a 15 speed - works great for me, why change?) Installing the new cassette and a couple of tweaks - rear indexed shifting works beautifully. Guess the spacing between cogs is just a little off on the cheapo cassettes, enough to throw things off. I can certainly live without indexed shifting, but it is kind of nice to have.
I'm also learning that the $100 wheelset I purchased isn't the best bargain, either. I'm down to about 205 pounds now (from an all-time high of about 230 at the beginning of the year, ugh!), but that plus the gear I carry to work put a lot of stress on wheels. The front cheapo wheel is hanging in there, but the rear wheel (which was replaced with a $75 cheapo wheel) goes out of true easily, has uneven spoke tension... Anyway, I am going to start saving my pennies for a solid, bulletproof rear wheel, either built locally or purchased through Rivendell.
Merry Christmas, everyone!
Friday, January 04, 2008
New Year's Resolutions for '08
The experts say that you should have specific goals when setting resolutions.
While my mantra is "ride my bike more", I've set the specific goal of riding at least 3000 miles this year. At a little over 8 miles per day on average, this should be obtainable.
Not only am I counting miles on my road and mountain bikes, but also miles pedaling on the Expresso bikes at the gym (which, believe me, are harder to pedal than regular bikes IMO).
Anybody out there have goals for 2008? Let's hear 'em.
While my mantra is "ride my bike more", I've set the specific goal of riding at least 3000 miles this year. At a little over 8 miles per day on average, this should be obtainable.
Not only am I counting miles on my road and mountain bikes, but also miles pedaling on the Expresso bikes at the gym (which, believe me, are harder to pedal than regular bikes IMO).
Anybody out there have goals for 2008? Let's hear 'em.
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Another year, another post
Well, as you guys (by "guys", I mean the two readers out there! LOL) can tell, I set the blog down for a while.
About nine months to be exact.
However, with the new year, I'm energized to get back into regular riding. Why not? Gas is going to get so stinkin' expensive (with oil prices topping over $100 today, and at $99.27 at the time I'm writing this - see http://www.bloomberg.com/energy/), it's a good time to get out and start riding!
Here's where I'm at:
1. Rode to work a couple of times last week. I also took part in the Christmas Tree Light ride through Haggin Oaks, a joint ride sponsored by Bike Bakersfield, Kern Wheelmen, and the South Sierra Fat Tire Association.
2. Bought some used panniers from Craigslist. These replace a pair my friend Will has loaned me for the past year or so (thanks again, Will!).
3. My Montero costs about $50- $60 to fill up. A tank lasts about a week. At these prices, it won't take long to achieve ROI on the aforementioned panniers, plus the other goodies I bought for my bike.
I ended up stripping down the bike to the bare frame (less the races for the headset, and treating the inside of the frame with J.P. Weigle's Frame Saver. (The tubes that I could examine look great, but why not do something to help 'em last another 25 years or so? )
While I have it apart, I'm replacing the bottom bracket with a sealed cartridge unit, and replacing the crank with a Sugino Triple crank from Rivendell Bike.
Have you checked out Rivendell Bike? What a great store! First, they sell bikes that are made for normal people to ride, not hunched-over racer style. Second, they sell a lot of American-made and other fair-trade manufactured items, instead of a bunch of Chinese junk that's marked way up. Lastly, is their customer service and return policies, both excellent. Prices are more than fair, especially considering the aforementioned return policy plus their commitment to selling unique, quality items. (And no - I'm not getting any benefit from them. I just like their philosophy and way of doing business.)
Have you renewed your Bike Bakersfield membership? I think it's important to support 'em, and just renewed my membership for the coming year. (And yes, I did more than the "Introductory" membership, and not just for the T-Shirt! :) ). Great organization that has a positive impact on our community at so many levels. Check them out at www.bikebakersfield.org, and tell 'em Jerry sent ya.
So c'mon: Dust off that bike you've had since college, take it down to one of the local bike shops for a tune-up and safety inspection, get a helmet, and get out there and ride! Two great places to access the Bike Path are at Riverwalk Park (follow the sidewalks north through the park to get to it) and at Hart Park (East side, by the old water wheel). Take the family or friends, get out and have fun!
About nine months to be exact.
However, with the new year, I'm energized to get back into regular riding. Why not? Gas is going to get so stinkin' expensive (with oil prices topping over $100 today, and at $99.27 at the time I'm writing this - see http://www.bloomberg.com/energy/), it's a good time to get out and start riding!
Here's where I'm at:
1. Rode to work a couple of times last week. I also took part in the Christmas Tree Light ride through Haggin Oaks, a joint ride sponsored by Bike Bakersfield, Kern Wheelmen, and the South Sierra Fat Tire Association.
2. Bought some used panniers from Craigslist. These replace a pair my friend Will has loaned me for the past year or so (thanks again, Will!).
3. My Montero costs about $50- $60 to fill up. A tank lasts about a week. At these prices, it won't take long to achieve ROI on the aforementioned panniers, plus the other goodies I bought for my bike.
I ended up stripping down the bike to the bare frame (less the races for the headset, and treating the inside of the frame with J.P. Weigle's Frame Saver. (The tubes that I could examine look great, but why not do something to help 'em last another 25 years or so? )
While I have it apart, I'm replacing the bottom bracket with a sealed cartridge unit, and replacing the crank with a Sugino Triple crank from Rivendell Bike.
Have you checked out Rivendell Bike? What a great store! First, they sell bikes that are made for normal people to ride, not hunched-over racer style. Second, they sell a lot of American-made and other fair-trade manufactured items, instead of a bunch of Chinese junk that's marked way up. Lastly, is their customer service and return policies, both excellent. Prices are more than fair, especially considering the aforementioned return policy plus their commitment to selling unique, quality items. (And no - I'm not getting any benefit from them. I just like their philosophy and way of doing business.)
Have you renewed your Bike Bakersfield membership? I think it's important to support 'em, and just renewed my membership for the coming year. (And yes, I did more than the "Introductory" membership, and not just for the T-Shirt! :) ). Great organization that has a positive impact on our community at so many levels. Check them out at www.bikebakersfield.org, and tell 'em Jerry sent ya.
So c'mon: Dust off that bike you've had since college, take it down to one of the local bike shops for a tune-up and safety inspection, get a helmet, and get out there and ride! Two great places to access the Bike Path are at Riverwalk Park (follow the sidewalks north through the park to get to it) and at Hart Park (East side, by the old water wheel). Take the family or friends, get out and have fun!
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Back in the saddle again...
It was tough to motivate myself to get on the bike this morning. Sure, I made sure my clothes were packed and my lunch was ready to go, but I was tired from staying up late (one of my boys woke up at 10:45, having a bad dream) and hopping in the truck was definitely appealing.
But, I remembered that I am beginning to put on weight again (from not eating as well as I should, and not exercising).
And, I remembered how much it cost to fill up yesterday (At the ARCO on 24th, 20 gallons @ $2.789 / gallon = $55.78 yikes!).
Finally, I remembered that the Alta Sierra Challenge, Lung Ride, and other rides are coming up quickly.
These facts, plus the comfort in knowing that it wouldn't be too cold this morning (I got away with wearing leg warmers and a windbreaker, and was plenty warm) got me out on my trusty bike.
On my way to work, met a nice guy named Mario who was commuting to his job on the east side of town. We rode together for a mile or two, talking about work and riding. He's a much more accomplished rider than I am, it would have been interesting to learn more about his experience racing. (He was riding a very nice bike, while I was riding my very retro touring bike.)
You can meet some nice people out on your bike. :)
But, I remembered that I am beginning to put on weight again (from not eating as well as I should, and not exercising).
And, I remembered how much it cost to fill up yesterday (At the ARCO on 24th, 20 gallons @ $2.789 / gallon = $55.78 yikes!).
Finally, I remembered that the Alta Sierra Challenge, Lung Ride, and other rides are coming up quickly.
These facts, plus the comfort in knowing that it wouldn't be too cold this morning (I got away with wearing leg warmers and a windbreaker, and was plenty warm) got me out on my trusty bike.
On my way to work, met a nice guy named Mario who was commuting to his job on the east side of town. We rode together for a mile or two, talking about work and riding. He's a much more accomplished rider than I am, it would have been interesting to learn more about his experience racing. (He was riding a very nice bike, while I was riding my very retro touring bike.)
You can meet some nice people out on your bike. :)
Monday, March 05, 2007
Did you see this in the Californian on Sunday?
Please click on the picture to enlarge.
Sad but true...
(By Rick McKee of the Augusta Chronicle - thank you, Rick!)
Sad but true...
(By Rick McKee of the Augusta Chronicle - thank you, Rick!)
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Weather Woes(?)
With an 80% chance of rain this afternoon, I can't help but wonder what my ride home will be like. I'm not too worried about the bike - I still have my fenders on, have my lights, and plastic bags for all the items in my rack pack and panniers - but am a little worried about my clothing.
For my torso, I should be OK. I have a PVC rain jacket that should keep me fairly dry. Gloves - well, they're not too waterproof, so I guess my hands are going to get wet.
For my legs and shoes... Soak city, I'm sure. The fenders should help keep the water out of my shoes, but nothing I'm wearing is terribly water repellent. So, while it's an 80% chance of rain, let's hope that it doesn't come down too hard...
For my torso, I should be OK. I have a PVC rain jacket that should keep me fairly dry. Gloves - well, they're not too waterproof, so I guess my hands are going to get wet.
For my legs and shoes... Soak city, I'm sure. The fenders should help keep the water out of my shoes, but nothing I'm wearing is terribly water repellent. So, while it's an 80% chance of rain, let's hope that it doesn't come down too hard...
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
How about a nice little bike ride?
Last weekend, I met a friend (whom I had previously completed the Lung Ride with) and we did the 56 mile Tour de Palm Springs. (There were 5, 10, 25, and 100 mile routes available as well.)
We decided on the 56 because it's still early in the riding season, and we didn't want to completely torture ourselves by doing a century. The day was very nice - high 50's when we started the ride, and averaging in the mid 80's (with a couple of spikes into the low 90's!). It was warm, no doubt, but a welcome change from riding in the cold.
The ride benefited a number of local charities, and had a special "Honorary Cyclist" - Monty Hall. Now, you see some celebrities participating in charitable events, and you can just tell that they'd rather not be there. Monty wasn't that way at all. He stayed for a long time at the pasta feed on Friday evening, and was around to see all of the groups of riders off on Saturday morning as well. (I was hoping to get the opportunity to shake his hand and thank him for his participation, but settled for having him wave to me as I headed out on the ride.)
Anyway, Monty seems like a genuinely nice guy. He looks great and is in great shape for his age (he bounded right up the steps to the stage at the pasta feed!), and has raised hundreds of millions for charity. What a great example - today's stars could take a lesson from him.
We decided on the 56 because it's still early in the riding season, and we didn't want to completely torture ourselves by doing a century. The day was very nice - high 50's when we started the ride, and averaging in the mid 80's (with a couple of spikes into the low 90's!). It was warm, no doubt, but a welcome change from riding in the cold.
The ride benefited a number of local charities, and had a special "Honorary Cyclist" - Monty Hall. Now, you see some celebrities participating in charitable events, and you can just tell that they'd rather not be there. Monty wasn't that way at all. He stayed for a long time at the pasta feed on Friday evening, and was around to see all of the groups of riders off on Saturday morning as well. (I was hoping to get the opportunity to shake his hand and thank him for his participation, but settled for having him wave to me as I headed out on the ride.)
Anyway, Monty seems like a genuinely nice guy. He looks great and is in great shape for his age (he bounded right up the steps to the stage at the pasta feed!), and has raised hundreds of millions for charity. What a great example - today's stars could take a lesson from him.
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