Back to Nebraska...

Yesterday was my first time back in the Husker state since the Steeplechase Death March.  The roads were perfectly dry and solid.  A strong and steady NW wind provided good resistance.  It was odd going 30+ mph (with the wind's help) on roads that would have been a quagmire 3 weeks ago.

I even got to practice my tire changing skills courtesy of a errant thorn.  Love the CO2!

I continue to imagine routes for next spring and despite the horrors of the October 8th ride, I still want to throw at least one mile of MMR into the mix.  But just one.  Two at the most.  Still awaiting the long-awaited opening of the Meridian Bridge because I want to make that part of the route too.

With the promise of winter just around the corner I'm experiencing bike lust again...perhaps a Salsa Vaya?  A Dos 9er?  Christmas will be here before we know it...

Next up...2012!

Even though the mud from the 2011 Steeplechase is still getting picked out of our bikes, clips and souls I can't help but be excited about doing something similar in 2012.  This blog will probably go into something resembling hibernation for a bit, but I have begun planning for next year.

Here's what my fevered imagination has come up with so far:
1) A springtime century (metric and English) that is divided more evenly between SoDak and Nebraska.  MMR's would probably not be a part of these routes in case you were wondering.  Mid-April anyone?  I already have the route roughed out.

2) A century version of the Steeplechase Harvest Ride, also metric and English, possibly with a more competitive category for the race inclined.

I welcome input from any and all.  I believe gravel/MMR riding has a future in the Yankton vicinity and I would love to see folks spread the word.  My goal is to keep these events free, fun and accessible.

Cheers,
Gregg

What I learned today...

Pictured: people who have no idea how long this day will be.

The first edition of the Steeplechase is behind us, now there are just the ensuing nightmares of gummed up wheels and shoes.  And so much walking slogging.  Thanks to everyone who made the trip - some of you came hundreds of miles only to be subjected to something bordering on sadistic.  I also want to thank the long-suffering partners and spouses (especially my own) who allow us to do things like this to ourselves.  And a shout out to Ace Bikes for giving us a rendezvous point and a roof to have our pre-ride assembly in.

If you'd like, send me your photos of this epic event that I can include in a gallery.  Also send me your critiques/comments.  Please keep a lid on the profanity.  I've already received one email that was very gracious and has helped me focus on the positive, as well as promising even more folks for next years event...which is just crazy.   Make that two.

cleaning, so much cleaning

So here's a short list of what I learned:
1) have maps available for those that want them, marked with alternate routes and/or bailout points.
2) have an alternate route for weather events just like the one we had last night
3) make sure my own tools are in order
4) gravel folks are a breed apart
5) MMR's can be a exceedingly unpleasant
6) wraparound fenders make excellent brakes
7) when estimating my time, double it

I managed to drag my aching backside home around 5:20 (not 5 hours and 20 mins.) after suffering a complete derailleur malfunction at about 40 miles.  I came home with a brand new single that at first was acting like a fixie.  My bike needs work.

My new rear d design (patent pending)

My bike after I shot it.

It's a go

The heavy rain and light show appear to be past us.  The wind has died and it looks like light-ish rain and sprinkles are on tap for this a.m.  My past experience on this course would tell me that the gravel will be gorgeous and the sand somewhat treacherous.  There is about a two mile section that could be greasy, but I think we'll live.  See you in 3 hours!

Postscript:  seldom have I been so wrong.

24 to go...

Good morning, Grinders!

The good news: it will be cooling off and the wind is dying.
The not-as-good news:  it's going to be damp/messy.
Final analysis:  I'll take 60°, calm and wet over 85° with a 35 mph wind (and flames).
7-Day Forecast for Latitude 42.88°N and Longitude 97.4°W (Elev. 1204 ft)
Bring your ziplocs, layers, towels and dry clothes for later.
There's a carwash near the bike shop if you need to wash down before heading home.

For those of you who did (or attempted) last spring's Almanzo this will be a piece of cake.

Be safe, be kind, have fun!

See you tomorrow.

Mid-week update

I've been checking the forecast for Saturday and although there may be some rain/sprinkles I can pretty much guarantee the roads will not look like this:

Yesterday I found out that Ace opens at 8:00 on Saturdays - but the start time will remain at 9:30.  Postcards continue to trickle in and if you have some last-minute adds feel free to bring them along.

I want to emphasize that this is a non-competitive venture, but if you hook up with folks who want to make a friendly race out of it go for it.  Just be nice and while you're in town take it easy and follow the rules of the road.  I mean, you should always follow the rules of the road - just pay extra attention within the city limits.  I will not be going for time and I'm not going to be first back.  I'm planning to have a check-in sheet at the Ace bike counter where you can record your time for posterity.  Don't forget your helmet and bringing a blinky red light wouldn't be a bad idea either.

I may have a few more random thoughts to add before Saturday so keep checking in.

Be safe, be kind, have fun.

A milestone of sorts.

If blogspots data are to be believed this little blog has garnered 997 views.  Go figure.  With your help we can reach 1000!  I have no tote bags or coffee mugs to offer, however.

A century's worth of erosion

I rode the route yesterday to verify that the cue sheets will actually help you find your out and back again.  The course is extremely dry.  Fire hazard dry. I'm pretty sure the harvest has barely begun because the farmers don't want their combines to send this year's crop up in smoke.  Some rain is forecast for this coming Friday and Saturday which will actually help compact the sandy bits.  Fortunately temps are supposed to remain mild.  There will still be some sandy areas that will require dismounting and walking - unless you bring your Pugsley.

I saw my first Nebraska coyotes yesterday - two or three, including this pup.  They are much less of a threat than any farmyard dog.

Two more postcards arrived from  Sioux Falls, South Dakota's biggest city!  Maybe we'll get to 20.