Soulcraft Bikes - Top Notch Bicycle Frames - Petaluma, CA

century riders club

2012-01-30T06:18:00.000-08:00

so, always wanted to do a 100 a month for a full year. recently, i saw that hurl had something brewing on that front and it got my interests up for sure. yesterday i placed myself on the way to that goal by scoring the rare southeast nebraska january hundy. gravel of course. lincoln, princeton, cortland, wilber, malcom, lincoln. picturing feb, nov and dec as being the tough months as far time and weather cooperating enough for a full day on the bike. thanks to carl being along.

I gotta live my life.

2012-01-21T06:58:00.000-08:00

I don’t even know where to begin. Let’s see……A month ago, my bike and I decided to have a duel. Long story short, the bike won. And I still will continue to love bikes even though my Mom has suggested no more. Nice try Mom, but I gotta live my life.

As a result of the bike winning, my consolation prize is a Pilon Fracture. Basically, I broke both the tibia and fibula at the ankle in a few places. My winnings in the prize bag include: no compound fracture, an unexpected departure to DC for surgery, installation of a ‘hardware store’ – two plates and 14 screws in the leg, riding a motorized scooter around the grocery store complete with a horn (dreams do come true), cast color customization, using dishwashing soap in the dishwasher only to find the origin of foam parties, and other various items that can only be disclosed if you are a consolation prize winner.

See you later.

new years eve gravel hundy

2012-01-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

on my new grasshopper. fits like it should, rides like a dream. weird nebraska winter weather allowed for a long day on the bike. thanks to corey for the pics.

So the other day I rode my bike to the grocery store.

2011-12-26T09:25:00.000-08:00

December 18th never looks so grim.

2011-12-19T08:53:00.000-08:00

Long time, no see around these parts. The day to day has been, as they say, one foot in front of the other. The plate has been full and fulfilling my team member obligations to Soulcraft LLC has been rough. I've avoided attending a half a dozen races, and got busted peeing on the side of the trail twice, but to counter that, I've done a boat load of trail work and packed out a metric shit ton of garbage from the woods. To celebrate the karmic and professional balance, Demonika and I went out in the peak of December's wintery bluster and messed some patches of dirt up.
The gods and I thank me.

adaptable

2011-11-30T04:57:00.000-08:00

SS or with gears? fenders or not? racks or not? options = good for this fat tire road bike.

Happy Tofurky Day!

2011-11-24T18:44:00.000-08:00

Yes, Tofurky. Yes, I am a hippie.

But I was thinking today about how thankful I am to have not one, but two glorious steeds to choose from:

Doesn't get much better than that. Unless, of course, I could learn to wheelie like my hubby Andy. That would make life just that little bit better.

Proof is in the Pudding

2011-11-23T13:50:00.001-08:00

Without further ado, pictures from the triathlon. It was worth every bit of the five dolla chop (fried chicken with fries) and Belikin Beer afterwards. On the side of the street I might add sitting in a parking lot. Not to mention hanging out in an Esso Gas Station eating candy, ice cream and drinking beers while waiting for the rain to pass. This is Belize!

Before the event, pumping it up. Our team. Breezie ran, Kelly swam, and I cycled. We called ourselves the "Soul Tornadoes". There is a hit song in Belize by Lovaboy called "Slow Tornado", and for the longest time I thought it was "Soul Tornado". Go figure. We happily adopted the name as a team. We are all Peace Corps Volunteers (PCV) serving in Business and Organizational Development Strengthening. The video is pasted below for your viewing pleasure.

Here is the bike I used. We borrowed it from a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer that ironically still lives in Belize. Technically, she is not 'returned' to USA. I flatted 1/4 of the way into my final lap, and carried the bike to the finish line. No tubes. Oh well. Life goes on.

This is Taylor, and this is the bike he started out with. It was also a borrowed bike from another PCV. He also had technical difficulties with his bike and the chain popping off. He ditched the bike, and picked up someone else's bike along the way to finish.

This was our team number. We were excited to have the number.

After we finished. Thank goodness we did.

The entire PCV crew including Taylor, who did the entire triathlon by himself instead of the relay team option. The gal that got us involved, one of the locals and PC staff, did both the relay and the individual. Talk about motivated.

fun time still

2011-11-19T14:47:00.000-08:00

had a great fall here in the middle west. blustery today but not that bad.

Holy Hell. I am racing again!

2011-11-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's right folks. It's been since June 2008 that I saddled up to race. Definitely have put in my share of riding miles plus some over the past few years, and now it's time to put the pedal to the medal. In Belize of all places. No public shame.

This will be taking place in Belize City, on a Sunday (November 20th), at 6:30am. And, it's a Super Sprint Triathlon meaning it's shortened. Please don't cringe. I will be competing on a team with two other Peace Corps gals, Kelly and Breezie, who will be doing the swim, and the running respectively. Yours truly will be the cyclist on board. It's 6.6. miles of cycling. The flyer says something like 10km, or something or another.

My training = riding a coaster bike on a daily basis through a village of about 2500 on dirt.

The diet of champions = conch ceviche, tortilla chips, tacos, Chokis Cookies (these are the bomb here - similar to Chips Ahoy, but definitely tastier) especially dipped in milk, ice cream, papaya, bananas, oranges, oatmeal, beans, carrots, broccoli, beets, potatoes, apples, peanut butter, eggs and pancakes. Of course some beers, Cosmos, and maybe a Cuban Cigar since those can be found on the streets around here. No telling what pre-race fair will be the night before or the day of.

My race kit = my Soulcraft shorts for sure, and maybe my jersey. I have a Peace Corps Futbol jersey, and that may go over my Soulcraft jersey. Oh, and the Soulcrafts socks. Probably ribbons in my hair as well. Shoes will probably be flip-flops. Maybe I shouldn't be wearing socks.

My bike = borrowed from a former Peace Corps Volunteer who lives here and races road on occasion. She is in the States right now pursuing pastry chef school in Chicago. Look forward to her return. I could get away with racing my bike that I use here in the village, but was offered this bike, so why not. Hope I remember how to shift!?!

My equipment = Peace Corps issued bike helmet that will definitely sustain any fall should I take a spill. Soulcraft water bottle because 6.6 miles is a long way...

I promise I will post pictures for my next posting. In the meantime, wish us luck!

Even Stan Beaver rides a Dirtbomb.

2011-11-02T11:31:00.000-07:00

When Stan's sober alter ego Dan Cheever rolls, it's a beautiful bicycle, but when Stan gets on board, it's a rolling shit show. Speaking of the Dirtbombs and shit shows, WTF, man?

My next door neighbor lubed my chain with EVOO

2011-10-21T12:11:00.000-07:00

Since I have been in Belize, approximately a bit over six months, I have borrowed two bikes. I have yet to purchase a bike. Before I left the USA, my plan was to have my Soulcrafts shipped to me. Now that I have arrived at my placement site for the next two years, that plan has to be adjusted. I live on the coast, and there are no paved roads where I live. The population of the village is about 2500, and the main form of transport is the bike. The problem is that rust is rampant here due to the moisture, and the climate. At this point, will not be shipping the Soulcrafts out. Mom did manage to send boxes that I left back in the USA to be shipped when I arrived at my posting, and in one of the boxes is my baby blue Soulcraft hoodie. That will have to do for now.

So, back to the borrowed bikes. The first bike I was lent was a hot pink s/s coaster with a basket. The Peace Corps Volunteer I replaced, had borrowed a bike from one of the other local PCVs, and that PCV was in no hurry to retrieve her bike. I rode that bike right up until the beginning of September. All during this time, I have been shopping around for a bike. One of the challenges is that I can buy a bike in the village, but the shop that sells them, sells them at a premium, which they can. After all, they have to haul the bikes here. I really haven’t found one at the shop I am fond of, and has all the accessories I need such as fenders, basket, and so forth. There is a shop that has the goods, but the challenge would be to haul the bike here on the bus, or find one of the locals with a car that can haul it back. The shop is about 2 hours away from me. I talked the shop owner a couple of days ago, and he said he could leave the bike in the box, but then I am faced with putting the bike together with no bike tools!

In the meantime, after riding first borrowed bike, my landlord has now lent me his bike. He has two cars, and his son lives next door and has plenty of bikes. No basket, and no fenders. There is maybe a trace of paint from the original paint job. The seat has seen it’s better days, as there is no cushion – only the seat molding. Ouch. The seat post is also rusted into the frame, the chain is rusted, and the foam around the handlebars is falling off. Needless to say, I have a bike for now, and it works. My work partner frequently borrows it at work, since he has a car and no bike now. Lucky for me, when he borrows it, he airs up the tires for me. Sometimes I think I should be ashamed to say I am a cyclist since I have let go of what tire pressure means. I know when the tires need air if my bike starts to roll slow. That’s my gauge. Go ahead, sure you are probably cringing as you read this, but there is something simplistic about knowing by tuning into the bike. The tires here are pretty heavy duty anyways.

My next door neighbors also borrow my bike. Yesterday, they borrowed it and brought it back with the tires aired up. Shortly after that, one of them came over and mentioned to me that my chain needed lube, and proceeded to ask if I had any cooking oil. I quickly produced my olive oil. He remarked that it wasn’t “1-2-3” which is vegetable oil and the common brand in the households here. I told him, no it’s olive oil. I don’t think he had probably ever seen nor heard of olive oil before. Really. Shamir then proceeded to lube my chain with the oil. Who in the world would have thought of that? I think it is awesome to be resourceful. Granted this is not a race bike, or even close to it, but what a great call. After my lubing my chain, Shamir looked up at me, and mentioned that he had a tool to work on my chain to make my bike go faster. My chain consistently pops off due to it being stretched out. I have learned how to put the chain back on without having to remove any parts or with any tools. I said okay, and he took my bike away. He came back with a relatively new chain on it, and showed me how fast I could now go on my bike by lifting up the back tire, and cranking the pedals. He then gave me a huge smile!

He also asked me earlier if I wanted to touch the goat he was holding my the horns in the yard. There is a pack of goats that roam freely around my neighborhood. I told him that I would leave him to touching the goat – he looked like he was doing a good job.

While I know I have not been the best at keeping up with the postings, I hope to do better in the future now that I am settling in. Can’t say that I will be doing racing anytime soon unless it’s on my coaster.

autumn rides

2011-10-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

on my first soulcraft. still serves me well.

Boooiiiinnggggg!

2011-10-06T09:30:00.000-07:00

I just trimmed out my beloved Dirtbomb with an all-rounder fork from East Coast ner-do-well Chris Igleheart. Damn, Jan. That's a lot of home crafted goodness.

clean

2011-10-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

crafty

2011-10-06T07:09:00.001-07:00

we have clearance

2011-10-04T05:07:00.001-07:00

clarence

700x32 slick in long reach caliper mounted to one badass road bike

crown

2011-10-04T05:04:00.000-07:00

segmented fork crown for long reach caliper brake...so sexy...

grasshopper

2011-09-29T04:53:00.000-07:00

Director Sporty crafted me another dream come true bike. Grasshopper is the name. Going down the road is game.

Interbike 2011

2011-09-18T22:48:00.000-07:00

Upon touching down in Vegas the smart thing to do is ask your cabbie to stop at a liquor store on the way to the hotel. A time honored move that will save you loads. That's Rick. He enjoys single malted Scotch and a cigar to wind down the day.

A couple of trash bags from the housekeeper down the hall, some ice, and we're in business.

The guys at The Hive were kind enough to bring our display down for us. Dealing with the union guys down there is no walk in the park. All we had to do was roll our cart a couple hundred feet and we're all set!

That night we had dinner with Paul and his clan. At some point I came across the reason our country is in so much trouble. On the right is your standard 16oz whatever. On the left is the "single serving of diabetes". Must be at least a gallon.

Wednesday started early with drinks at the bar until 2am. Then up and ready for all comers by 9am in the convention hall. We shared with King Cage, Two Fish, Bruce Gordon, and Slipnot. The coolest 100 square feet at the show. One of the few places at the show where you could shake hands with the person who actually made the parts on display. "Hey, when are they going to turn the lights on?" "Uhm, they are on". Made for a very intimate setting.

Here with Bruce Gordon himself. As you can see Bruce gets pretty excited when Interbike rolls around.

Here we have Wes Williams (right) who is credited by many with creating the 29r. On the far left is JayMac, who was the guy in charge of garment production and purchasing at Swobo 1.0 and 2.0. The guy in the plaid shirt is some sort of groupie.

On the way out on the last day I spied this about to be boxed up. A new replica of a mid-eighties Kuwahara. Got me all nostalgic but for $350 I couldn't pull the trigger.

To top off the week we got to help White Industries pack up their booth which we were more than happy to do considering all they've done for us over the years. Then they took us to dinner. Super nice.

Almost forgot to mention the "work" part of the trip. Standing at the booth all day talking is a picnic. This other stuff is crushing. Thursday night was the Soulcraft/AHTBM/Ritte/Paved Magazine Party at the Peppermill Fireside Lounge. Big pressure to look your best and all. Sometimes a helping hand makes all the difference.

Here we are delivering a couple $30 six packs to the table. Yeah, $60 for 12 beers (with tip). But hey, we were playing host so it was the least we could do.

We recently delivered a Dirtbomb to Evgeni Plushenko. He was kind enough to show up and say thanks. Humbling, if not somewhat uncomfortable.

Hurl telling JayMac, "Check out what I just saw in the men's room."

At every party there comes a time when you realize it's time to go. That you've reached the point of diminishing returns. This was that point. See you guys next year.

I think I was in Las Vegas.

2011-09-18T11:06:00.000-07:00

It sure seems so, though from what I can remember of it, those may have been mental images from last year.
Or the year before.

As usual, we here in the Soulcraft camp came through with handsome colors.

Have you seen us? We all are incredibly good looking.

The new Soulcraft stems were causing quite a buzz, as was the fact that we even had an official presence at the show for the first time in over a decade.

Of course thanks go to the Interbike organizers for putting us in the one corner of the 900,000,000 square foot exhibition hall with no lights, but that's pretty much just par for the course.

Happy twelfth birthday to us, and there's no need to say it.. We're well aware we don't look a day over ten.

I'm sure Captain Sport Pants will come in here and actually make a post that is a bit more official, and also probably make mention of the fact that I keep referring to 'we', when in fact I don't do jackshit for the betterment of the company. I just like to feel as though I belong.

In closing, I might like to offer a shot of Lanolin from Ritte Racing and Captain Sporty at our annual 'Bike Industry Bottom Dweller Extravaganza'®. We showed Las Vegas just what we were capable of and emerged with a few dollars less in our pockets and not a whole lot smarter.

What happened in Vegas stayed in Vegas, our self respect included.

But 'we're' Soulcraft.

You wouldn't expect anything less.

Oh my my, oh my yes. Time to put on your party dress.

2011-09-04T12:29:00.000-07:00

I put the cock in 'cockpit'.

2011-09-04T07:01:00.002-07:00

Cross bikes are to be ridden year-round.

That will be all.

Barn Burner 104 with Soulcraft buddies

2011-09-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Raced the local Barn Burner 104 miler last weekend on a team with fellow Soulcrafter Leslie Gilmore. We've known each other for a bunch of years, but this is the first time we've ever raced together! It was a bunch of fun, and we earned ourselves some sweet belt buckles.
Leslie's husband Stacy raced, too-his first race ever, about 3 days before his new Soulcraft showed up! I think he'll be doing some more races on his sweet new bike :)

Steamboat Springs, ColoRADo

2011-08-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

MW on Wyoming Trail 1101. Continental Divide, near Steamboat Springs, CO. Looking into Mt Zirkel Wilderness. Aug 12, 2011.

Great weekend camping and riding with fellow Soulcrafter, MW and other Nebraska buds near Steamboat Springs, CO.

More photos here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/mitchkline/sets/72157627442163060/

steamboat springs

2011-08-16T07:57:00.000-07:00

spent a nice long weekend camping, riding, drinking and making fires. singlespeed and rigid was the mode. scotty took this pic. brother kline and ganz took some nice ones as well.

A visit to the Honeycomb Hideout

2011-08-13T15:26:00.001-07:00

Stopped by Hunter Cycles to say hello to Rick and check out his sweet shop. Like us, Rick likes machines.http://www.huntercycles.com/pages/prices.html

The Mattson 2 playing in SF

2011-08-10T01:02:00.000-07:00

Our friends The Mattson 2 are playing this Saturday at Una Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco. You should check them out, and have some mind blowing pizza while you're at it.

I have friends that make stuff.

2011-08-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

As I was going through some off my photos recently, I realized I know a huge array of extraordinarily talented individuals. I know folks with a knack behind a sewing machine, like Cory from Dank Bags who is known far and wide for his cüzies, bags and Beernet helmets;

Or there are people who make art, like Jason Jagel

Or hand tooled leather aprons;

Sometimes my friends even make history;

I know musicians, carpenters, writers... and that doesn't begin to touch on the numbers of folks who build bikes. Captain Sporty, Rick the Stick, The Filipino Mafia, Grumpy Bruce, Robio.. The list goes on and on, as would the nicknames.
I even know people whose gift is making an ass out of themselves;

As all of this was occurring to me, I counted myself very lucky to be surrounded by such talent. Now all I need is for some of it to rub off on me.

birthday weekend

2011-07-25T11:59:00.001-07:00

so...the mighty mo is flooding like a mother, and we wanted to see the flooding by bike. rode 125 miles from Lincoln to Plattsmouth on 2hrs of sleep and a decent hangover/headache. wife and friends held a complete surprise party for me the night before. i was flattered and then i was drunk. so much fun.

2011-07-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

More summer fun and gorgeousness in Flagstaff. I can't resist putting up these pictures because I LOVE it here so much! Spectacular riding, perfect weather, fun people...can't complain.

Nothing like hail in July...

2011-07-08T07:34:00.001-07:00

...to bring out your inner drowned rat.

May as well have been a Bigfoot

2011-07-05T23:45:00.000-07:00

I was up in Annadel a few weeks ago preriding the Wizard Staff Cross Country course and who do I run into? That is Billy Kostrikin, 1991 Jr. National Cross Country champ. His brother Nick was a local frambuilder in Santa Rosa and made Billy's bikes and when he was riding for the Salsa/NTI team, Nick built him a bike with a Salsa tubeset that looked just like a Salsa but was custom fit for Billy. That's the bike in the photo with most of the original parts. He said he hadn't been on a bike in a long time which basically means he would be crushing you by not quite as much. Nothing better than seeing someone so gifted mopping up on a bike that's about 20 years old.

Same sentiment, different words.

2011-06-29T12:57:00.001-07:00

As a 'sponsored rider' for Soulcraft cycles, some of my duties include making an occasional appearance here on the web log, while others involve feeding the boss his daily potassium;

Photo by Mitzi Inglis

-as well as convincing him he should do something even though his better judgement tells him he probably should not. This past Saturday we went down that very road as we engaged in the Bike Monkey Magazine Save-Annadel-State-Park-Race while simultaneously celebrating the first ever Wizard Staffs Around The World Celebration.

Racing your bike, or even cautiously riding it over the rock strewn trails of this expansive Northern California park is a tricky thing on a good day, let alone one where your secondary goal is to drink as much beer as you can.

It certainly is not something we would encourage an amateur to attempt. With this task before us we set out and gently peeled the skin from our day's grape, knocking back can after can and mile after mile;

Finally just before crossing the line we pulled over to wait for our teammate Big Steve P, and to finish our stash;

Though we might not have achieved victory in the traditional sense, we achieved it in every other, and that is just fine by us.

2011-06-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

The Mattson 2: Man From Anamnesis from michael evans on Vimeo.

Framebuilder's Garage Sale

2011-06-22T00:15:00.000-07:00

Come on down/up/into Petaluma this Sunday for killer deals on the piles and piles of cool bike parts that we local builders have been hording for years. There will be beer and food as well as a lot of guys with beards.

2011-06-10T08:12:00.000-07:00

This year I again raced the Dirty Kanza 200 in the Flint Hills surrounding Emporia Kansas. I have not done a full race write up yet but I did create a race video diary, which I feel is more telling of this years battle. 290 racers started and only 68 finished I ended up 22nd and bested my last years time. A great day and a hard fought battle...

Race diary from the 2011 Dirty Kanza 200:

My video was also featured on the Dirty Kanza website which can be found at: WWW.DIRTYKANZA200.COM

Take Care of Your UPS Driver

2011-06-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

It's easy to get mad when something you're waiting on doesn't show up on time, but easier to take it for granted when things are showing up on time. Take a minute and do something nice for these folks. Chances are your driver has been on your route for years and will be there for a lot more.

time to get dirty

2011-06-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

dirty kanza 200 coming up this weekend. done every running of the event except one. did the first one tho. i remember watching my previous all time longest ride mileage go passing by on my cyclocomputer. i did the first running on my first soulcraft, a flat bar SS 29er disk brake bike, pictured here. i am prepping it tonight for this years event. pic is from last years gravel worlds.

It's been a spell since I've been through here.

2011-05-30T14:03:00.001-07:00

For that I am sorry to anyone who cares, but most especially to The Boss, to whom I made a commitment.
I wish that I could say that I've been absent due to Malibu rehab, driving the cross country stripper bus, or water slide R&D camp, but it was none of those things.
Ignorance and apathy are generally my two worst enemies, but I've vanquished my foes for just long enough to get my two fingers on the keyboard.
El Capitan Sporty Pirate called me the other night and he may very well have been the second drunkest person on the planet. Of course the first was his friend Dave who was busy training for the upcoming Wizard Staffs Around The World event, with cans of Guinness.

You know that didn't end well. That's why real wizards tend to stick with pilsner. It may be considered bland to beer snobs, but it's at least guaranteed to keep the contents of your body in place.

Anyway, his holiday weekend was arguably more action packed than mine, as I spent a good portion of it either lounging with my partner in crime;

Riding various types of bicycle machines with the likes of FP and Mr. Blacksocks;

Drawing drawings, or finding dirt on which to bomb with the bomber of dirt;

It's a Soulcraft kind of life, and I for one couldn't be happier to be living it.

Flagstaff Shred Season

2011-05-27T09:53:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous Flag spring riding has been in abundance this year. I'm in nursing school, not working much, so there has (so far) been plenty of riding time. Racing? Not so much...but I discovered that some people I ride bikes with actually bring pickles and whiskey to ride The Pickle. Bleah.
There has also been time to stuff beer and sandwiches in the Camelbak and have a picnic on a hill in Sedona. Hooray!

Sarteneja, Corozal, Belize

2011-05-26T09:51:00.000-07:00

I miss my bike(s), and I look forward to riding very soon.

I found out on Tuesday where I will be living and working in Belize. Up until this point, I have been in training in Belmopan, and Salvapan. My home will be Sarteneja, and I couldn't be happier. In fact, I was blown away by the decision. http://www.sarteneja.net/

Sarteneja is a small village, population of about 1800, on the Northern Shores of Belize. Smack dab on the ocean! The village is a traditional fishing community (this means I will be eating plenty of fresh fish), and they have also expanded into tourism. My understanding is there are lots of boats, cycling, hiking, scuba/snorkeling, museums, culture, food, and homestays.

In cycling news, I attended my first cycling race on Easter weekend. What can I say about this? Well, we got up early and waited for awhile for the cyclists to ride by. The build-up until they rode by was enthralling to say the least, and then they rode by. Highlight of the day. Of course, there was the lone rider off the front, peloton, and then the people off the back. And there was a sno-cone dude selling concessions.

Here is a picture of Breezie and I waiting for the cyclists.

Here is a picture of other people waiting for the cyclists.

Serious motorcycles for motopacing, and the cyclists are coming.

Finally, the cyclists.

Over and out.

I've got stones

2011-05-17T11:17:00.001-07:00

When you work at a place that does laser engraving I suppose you would throw all kinds of things in the machine to see what will happen. Brent from Laser Impressions sent me some bricks (and some money as you can see there) to use if I ever build a new shop for Soulcraft. Or I might throw them through someone's window.

I have been to the pain cave

2011-05-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

photo courtesy of Craig Lindner. The Almanzo 100 went off on Saturday, 14 May, and let me tell you, it was like riding through peanut butter, sand, and chocolate milk. The good organic kind... Anyway, read about it here.

I Love Rock and Roll

2011-05-09T11:27:00.001-07:00

That there is none other than Ross Shafer working on Joan Jett's Mesa Boogie amp chassis in our shop. For those that don't know, Ross is my former boss at Salsa Cycles, my current landlord, and works on amps for a couple local companies.

11 years of Soulcraft now in Tucson, AZ

2011-05-01T12:37:00.001-07:00

In addition to Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff, AZ, the other Soulcraft outpost in the desert is at my house in Tucson. I bought my first Soulcraft road bike from Sean (and Matt) when I arrived in Flagstaff in 2000. I'm going to ride that bike today. I'm also going to begin assembling the classy new 2011 crossbike that you see in the foreground (photo above). It's not mine, although I wish it was, but a good friend's bike that I am helping to build and "dial in" for him while he is away. Although he doesn't know it, I'm going to break it in for him. The virgin ride. Is that unethical? I don't know. I just know it will be hard to stay off of it. It's a safety thing you know and any good mechanic would do the same. You will see another Soulcraft 26er mountain bike in the photo (also blue) that dates back to around 2000. It's getting a tune-up. Pretty cool. Good work Sean (and Matt) and the rest of the fam. I sure have enjoyed the ride so to speak.

This is Strange!

2011-04-30T13:12:00.001-07:00

When there's a brewery one block off my route, I stop! WWW.strangebrewingco.com

tiV7 report

2011-04-25T21:39:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was my sixth go at finishing the mighty TransIowa gravel road race. I have previously finished twice so I knew what to expect. Or so I thought.

The all important weather leading up to the event was nerve racking but actually ended up perfect for the gravel roads and for the day(s) of the event in general. But the dirt roads were slop and slow, with lots of pushing, dragging and carrying. The day-of weather made the dirt roads better as the race drew onward and they became ride-able. I rode in a big group of mostly Lincolnites for most of the first and second (of three) legs of the event. My riding partner and I eventually drifted off the back which was fine, but a few off course mistakes killed my chances of finishing on time.

I taught myself I can always relearn something I thought I knew. Never too late to burn yourself for not paying attention.

Legs and bike worked and felt great for 260 continuous miles tho. No flats, no mechanicals no cramps, one shared 24oz bud, lots of granola bars and raisins.

Pic is of me at Check Point 1 going thru my stuff. Camelback Octane pack was comfy and kept my essentials safe for the long haul. Thanks jb for the pic and the support.

"No.. Seriously.. There used to be a trail around here somewhere."

2011-04-25T11:37:00.001-07:00

Pentabike Dave and I took Mitch the web wiz on an ill fated search for the old Cherry Creek trail just outside of Denver Colorado and were dismayed at how far it's fallen into disrepair. What used to be a rippingly fun out and back is now a bush whacking immersion in tedium. Denver mountain bikers.. Did you know you have gobs of fun just out your front door and mere minutes from downtown? Organize and get your acts together. It will be well worth the effort.

China Camp never gets old.

2011-04-24T16:45:00.001-07:00

I think I've been riding out here since 1984 and I can say honestly it has never sucked. And why would it?

I live in Belize.

2011-04-20T15:46:00.000-07:00

And I had to go all the way to Sedona, Arizona to break-in my new kit….en route to my new home in Belize.

Yep. That’s right. I did break-in my brand-spanking, new Soulcraft kit mountain biking in Sedona, Arizona. Sweet kit if I must say so myself, and, yes, the other part is also true. I live in Belize as of March. Also worthy of the sweet stamp.

Going back to the MTB, I was indeed on a road trip that I had been waiting on for quite sometime. It just so happened to work out that I was able to tag team my road trip with my move to Belize. As a side note, no, I didn’t drive all the way to Belize. I drove from California to Texas. Okay, now that we have that out of the way, back to the blog.

Only two of my three Soulcrafts made the trip. The other one was nicely packed up and went with the rest of my stuff to Texas. As an addition to the story, I actually got misty-eyed when I had my last bike packed up after arriving in Texas. Sniff, sniff.

Well, one of the places I have always wanted to visit is Sedona, AZ, and this time I made it. The one word I can use to describe it is phenomenal. Not just the MTB, which seemed to be available, but the natural landscape, yoga, most of the people, and last, but not least, the desert sky. The desert sky at night stole the show. I haven’t seen the stars lit up like that in quite sometime, and the span of the sky seemed endless. It was beautiful, and what I needed. As for the cycling, like I said I was able to do a bit of MTB thanks to dude at a local shop that gave me the low-down. He even threw out some local rides in the upcoming days, but unfortunately I was not able to. Next time.

My next stop after Sedona, AZ was Durango, CO, and not only did I get to visit my of my dearest friends, I also got to sink my teeth into some road cycling. I would also like to add we got a dash of snow on our ride. Cheers! I did have to keep telling myself that I was coming from sea level to altitude, and while I do like to put the pedal to the metal at times, Ice Cube graced me with his lyrics during the ride, “You better check yourself before you wreck yourself.” Anyways, it was all worth it because we ate brownies right out of the pan for the entire duration of my stay. And of course, what did I find on the mirror in Colorado spreading the Soulcraft love.....?

As for Belize, I do indeed live here now, and have managed to plant the Soulcraft seed where I can until bikes arrive. Soulcraft patch on the backpack – check. Soulcraft sticker on the waterbottle that I received the first day at work here – check. Soulcraft hat – check. Soulcraft tee-shirt(s) & sweatshirt(s) – check. Soulcraft kit – check. You get the point – I am tried, true teammate. By the way Sean, I think it’s time to start talking cruiser.... Bikes are the primary mode of transportation here, and people pile on them. If you have ever been to Amsterdam, you know what I am talking about. It’s great to see all the kids at the school next door to my house ride their bikes to school, and to see that sea of bikes parked in the bike rack.

Aside from that, yes they do have a cycling culture outside of that meaning the, are you ready for this, the serious side. Insert Vincent Price’s voice from Michael’s Jackson’s Thriller there. This weekend I will witness my first cycling race here. In Belize Cross Country is road. Still wrapping my head around the local lingo here. Anyways, they also start the races here at 5am due to the heat. Serious heat. This morning I was having a conversation with one of the guys I work with, and he was telling me this year he is moto-pacing the event from the start. I am wondering if there is some way I can hop on since I have always wanted to roll on one of those. Most likely not, perhaps next time. I am looking forward to getting up, and checking it out with some friends since Easter is a huge deal here. We have Friday, the weekend, and Monday off. Most everything closes down starting tomorrow. Hell yeah.

To wrap this baby up, one of the gals I have met is into it from a laid-back, drink your beer standpoint, and has informed me the majority of the gals in the cycling culture here are into it from an in-it-to-win-it attitude. Both honorable in their own rights. We all know how we roll on the Soulcraft team. In the last conversation I had with Director Sporty before I left the USA, he said, “I had better see you on the podium down there!” Yes, of course, anything to ensure my place on the Soulcraft team. Even if it is on a cruiser! You had better BELIZE it!!! Stay tuned America!

p.s. On my road trip, I visited my little brother, who now I might add is 21, and I have to give the man some props for rolling with the homies. His first bike got stolen, as yes, for real, he does live in the hood (way to go USC!), and this is his replacement. He can leave it on his porch unlocked, no problem. It has a kickstand, and the seat slides down when he rides it. Hydraulics in action for sure. Sweet Stamp!

Force Field of Fun

2011-04-12T18:10:00.000-07:00

Hand made bike shows are a new and somewhat odd phenomenon. Created to spread the word about the niche industry that is hand made bicycles, they often end up being more art show than "trade" show; more ogling than selling going on. They're like drunk headstands; they seem like a good idea until you're about half way through which is about the time you realize what you kind of suspected all along; that maybe you shouldn't have tried this but your only hope now is to try to make the crash landing as painless as possible. To insulate myself from the negative aspects of this trend (wasting time and money), I have taken to only attending shows within a day's drive and stopping along the way to ride. As we did last year on the way to the San Diego Custom Bicycle Show, Mo Rebolledo, Stevil, and myself made a vacation out of it.

First stop was San Luis Obispo. It's far enough south to get into more rocky and barren type of riding than we have up here. Long climbs, lots of singletrack, and no one around. Tim played host again and has the cleanest house I've ever seen a 43yr old single man have. At least when we got there....

On the way south we had decided to pass up killer riding just to say we rode in L.A. But then Jeff from L.A. said we were being stupid and recommended turning left wherever we happened to be at that point. We did, and ran smack into a little bike shop called Rincon Cycles in Carpenteria.

Dennis and Paul were kind enough to point us to a trail in Ojai. Thanks guys. Always cool to make connections like that and get some local knowledge.

Killer out and back 14 miles. Busy singletrack with a lot of rocks. For not knowing where the hell we were, we lucked out. Spent the night in Hollywood at my cousin Kathleen's place. She made the mistake of telling us her company pays for it.

Before the show started on Friday we made a pilgrimage to the U.S. Olympic training center for some early morning squats and pole vaulting. Actually it was to see the B.M.X. museum. A little old lady named Dorris let us in. When she opened the door it was like seeing the Lost Ark. Holy Sweet Jesus it was hard to take it all in. Even though it was a pretty small place, they packed in quite a collection of bikes, old gear, and photos.

That sticker there is from the race where I got my C.W. "Pistol Pete" bike stolen. I got a mountain bike with the insurance money and away I went. If you own a Soulcraft, you have bike thieves in Stockton to thank.

The best thing about these shows is meeting customers. Not potential customers, but people who already own a Soulcraft. That's Gretchen from Pacific Coast Cycles where Spencer (left) and Robert purchased their bikes. That's actually Robert's bike in the pic. Not to sound too self important, but I know they really appreciated meeting me and I have the same sentiment towards them. There's nothing like being thanked personally for your hard work and hearing about the experiences they've had on a bike you built. These guys ride. A lot. That's who I want to build bikes for. But bike shows are not all about touchy feely encounters with customers. Sometimes it's about babysitting, Wizard Staffs, and shoes that look like feet. After taking a courtesy look around our booth, some guy left his kid behind while he walked around the show for about an hour (that's about 4 rungs worth on the Wizard Staff). In the mean time Stevil took the opportunity to impart his 40 years worth of wisdom to the approximately 8 year old Nick. If you're Nick's dad and you're reading this, two things. First, you're welcome, and second, that Black Widow Nick claims is living under his bed isn't really there. That's just to keep you from looking under there.

All though it would appear that Stevil has reaped what he hath sown via his own Wizard Staff, I believe it was the hour of child care that did him in. Not even the little bottle of 5 hr. energy could save him, nor jog his memory of the walk back from the show to the hotel. Oh, and here are those shoes I mentioned....

Like I said, by adding a sufficient amount of peripheral tomfoolery and riding, the effects of attending a hand made bicycle show can be mitigated.

On the way to the San Diego Custom Bicycle Show

2011-04-05T19:40:00.001-07:00

Just rode in San Luis Obispo with Stevil, Hams, and Mo Rebolledo. Not a bad start to the trip.

Hi good people.

2011-04-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

On this very morn, Captian Grandé, Mo Rebolledo and myself are pointing our bodies and our wares southward for the second annual San Diego Custom Bicycle Show. If you happen to be in the land of Simon and Simon, (especially if you happen to know either Rick or A.J.), poke your head in for a high five.

If last year was any indication, this year is gonna be a good one.

longee coming up

2011-03-31T17:04:00.000-07:00

The ol' drop bar bike doesn't get torn down this far very often. I need to get it ready for my 6th attempt at the TransIowa. New cranks, bar swap, different seat and post, different pedals and new cables and bar wrap. 320odd miles coming up soon. Easter weekend actually. If I can finish this year it will be my third. That would be a 50% batting average. Wish me luck.

Holy hell, we had a good time.

2011-03-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

As you have probably heard by now, El Capítan Sporty Pirata and Anthony from Una Pizza put on one hell of a bash this past weekend. Bike and bike part makers from all corners of Northern California were putting the 'cool' in 'Portland' before that city ever got the memo, and it was refreshing to see them all display their wares in a single location. As everyone stood around and enjoyed the company of one another, Anthony slung the pizzas, and our ears were treated to a serenade by The Mattson Two, who were responsible for the soundtrack to the recent video 'From Steel- The Making of a Soulcraft' video directed, shot, produced and masterminded by Mike Evans. The storms temporarily cleared and made way for a cloudy but dry afternoon for the masses to converge and take in the sights and sounds of a celebration of handmade, Nor Cal goodness.

I would like to publicly thank all of those who were involved, and apologize for the apparent misplacement of my sobriety.

Then again, I guess if you know me, that was to be expected.

Slick 50-2011 Edition- SATURDAY 19 MARCH

2011-03-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

to assuage Stevie's sensitivity, I bring you the return of the Slick 50, this Saturday, 19 March.

Though I cannot vouch for any other Soulcrafts, I Suck Wang will be getting real dirty. Don't be scared.

Take two and call anyone you want to in the morning.

2011-03-12T18:32:00.001-08:00

Some days, like today, and yesterday for example, it seems as if the world is on the brink of its demise. Call me overly sensitive if you wish, but I can't help but bury my head under the covers in situations like these with false hope that when I emerge it will all be better. Bouncing from news report to news report, everything only seemed to get more dire. Finally reaching my breaking point, I grabbed my brown love and pointed it away. After only 30 minutes of lazily rolling over my nearby trails, I felt as if my heart was soothed. Certainly a simple bike ride isn't capable of solving the world's problems, but it does just fine in slapping a temporary band-aid on mine.

We all have a monkey on our backs sometimes.

2011-03-07T18:25:00.001-08:00

Sometime's it's an addiction. This may include alcohol, tobacco, or firearms. It may include riding a bike until we can't turn the pedals over, or possibly a combination of all four.

In this instance its name is Cheever. You can't love him though he's almost impossible to hate.

-No strike that. He's pretty easy to hate, but not for forever.

Happy birthday chump. If you were within an arm's length from me I would punch you square in the junk.

A Ruota Libera Bike Show Update

2011-03-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

We made a small (but important) error on the original poster. It said show time was 3pm to 7pm. It's actually 1pm to 7pm. Here's the new one....

Date: March 20 2011

Location: Una Pizza Napoletana 210 11th St and Howard St. San Francisco, CA 94103

The greater San Francisco Bay area is home to numerous world-renowned bicycle frame builders. On March 20th many of them will converge at Una Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco for 'A Ruota Libera', a bicycle and pizza show designed to showcase and celebrate the rich culture and history of frame building that exists right here in our own backyard.

Anthony Mangieri, owner and pizzaiolo of Una Pizza Napoletana, is an avid mountain biker and owner of several custom made bicycles. For Mangieri, the event represents an opportunity to invite fellow craftsmen, who share his appreciation for detail, into his own 'workshop' where he will happily churn out his signature Neapolitan pizzas for the show.

Sean Walling, owner and frame builder behind Soulcraft Cycles, immediately saw the value of bringing local builders together for the show and partnered with Mangieri to bring A Ruota Libera to life. "The frame building talent we have within a 50 mile radius is an embarrassment of riches," says Walling, “and Anthony has the same obsessive approach to pizza that we have to bikes, so why not get together and give the locals the opportunity to experience this all in one place."

Walling and Mangieri both agree that A Ruota Libera will be a great venue for all, whether frame builder or fan, to appreciate what results from years working toward mastering a craft.

A Ruota Libera will also showcase a live musical performance by the internationally praised duo, The Mattson 2 and a screening of 'FROM STEEL': The Making of a Soulcraft' by director Michael John Evans.

The name “A Ruota Libera” is Italian for “Freewheel.”

Moretti Beer and Mr. Espresso coffee will also be available.
Admission to the event is $10 (includes pizza)
Free on site bike parking will be provided.
Tickets are available at the door the day of the show.
Doors open at 1pm and close at 7pm.

www.unapizza.com
www.soulcraftbikes.com

Una Pizza Napoletana and Soulcraft Cycles Present A Ruota Libera: A San Francisco Bicycle and Pizza Show

2011-02-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

"If a group of frame builders goes riding together and no one knows about it, is it cool?"

2011-02-27T08:40:00.000-08:00

In substitute for the dog and pony show in Austin, a few custom bike builders got together to do something almost unthinkable upon their wares. They rode them.

So what's the answer to this post's title? According to El El Capitán Pirata, it's "No, definitely not".

24 Hour Race Report

2011-02-21T15:59:00.000-08:00

2011 Old Pueblo is in the books, and as usual, it was both brutal and fantastic at once. The day started off just fine, I felt great for my first solo 24 attempt.
Noon: The mass LeMans start was mayhem, there had to be 1000 people all trying to run in bike shoes. I got off to a comfortable start, cruising with a big group, until I misjudged a corner and ran my foot through a cactus. Oops. After the lap I changed shoes and went out again, and this time the winds started kicking up.
3pm: Winds hit 40 mph, out camp area blew down, and I started trying to find big dudes to ride behind. Fortunately, my husband Andy got the pits back together (mostly) and kept everything running smoothly.
6pm: Bike race turns into shitstorm. Winds are howling, rain is coming sideways, temperature is dropping fast. Somehow I am dumb enough to go back out in it.
9pm: Rain finally stops, and wind slows down. I'm suddenly an HOUR up on second place. Laps keep coming smoothly.
2am: All my technical skills desert me. I hit every rock within a foot of the trail. Kept it upright only because my bike knows how to ride better than I do.
4:30am: Things start getting weird. I start hallucinating rabbits, or at least I don't think they were real. I kept telling myself "don't swerve, they're not really there!"
6:45am: Sunrise lap! I felt sortof ok again, and put in a decently fast lap. Met up with a fellow solo rider named Phil who pulled me around the back half of the course. Thanks Phil, I would have been a lot slower without you!
10am: Made the decision to go out for another lap. I probably didn't have to, but I wanted 13 laps...that one hurt. A lot. I felt like I was going about 4 mph, but I still made it back in under 2 hours.
Noon: The finish! Finally! I have a photo from the end, but it's too awful. I couldn't bring myself to put it on the internet.

Final tally-24 hours, 212 miles, 15,600 feet of climbing, 27 dead kangaroo rats on the trail (yes, I counted), and 1 sweet first place trophy.

Mid-ride pint

2011-02-19T12:07:00.001-08:00

Vine St Pub, Denver, CO

Race Report: CCCX #1

2011-02-13T22:15:00.000-08:00

Me and my secret weapon (pre-race PB&J) rolled up to CCCX #1 at Fort Ord today, anticipating the usual fun that Keith D. and th' boys put together. This time, I remembered to bring my warp drive, a new pair of MTB shoes, and my quick-release-mounted spikes to try my luck in the 35-44 Cat. 1/Exp./whatever division. Weather was extra-spectacular, and not a lot of cold wind that Fort Ord has this time of year. After a hot lap and a half, I decided the new shoes would have to wait for some more adjustment, and I threw on the old retreads. After chatting/meeting up with some riders/buds just emerging from their caves, Rod The Startman and MC put us 3rd wave, and with a drop of the hanky, we took off for the 1/4 mile asphalt drag-race to the first turn and start of the dirt. The following are transcripts from the little voice in my head. "1st lap: super mellow. 2nd - 3rd: mellow. 4th lap: mellow still, but let's go a little faster, try to close on the leader a little, and pass a lot of flotsam from the waves that started before us. 5th and final lap: test the mettle a bit, glad this is just the first race, too much road-riding-read sore butt, and they made the course a bit more fun to help us lazies feel confident that we can still ride, am looking forward to 2011." This course is fast and in places very slick, but no hassles, not even a close call-damn I'm smooth. There was a guy right behind me during the middle of the race that pulled a complete vanishing act: one second he was there, the next, the ground sucked him right up. I'm pretty sure I heard a "Whoa, hey Moe" back there. If not for a family function I had to hurry up and git to, I would of stood on the box. Next time, we're racin' for pinks. Thanks Keith and the CCCX gang for your brand of family fun.

Editor's note:

Supposedly, there was some video generated from the races-will post as req. so you can view my exemplary trail etiquette ("oh, but no, you first"), textbook bike-handling skills, and clean, close shave.

cccxcycling.com

P.S. Sean, love the bike-building movie. When do we get the director's cut?

Why the Dirtbomb was meant to be.

2011-01-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

Six hours in the saddle, sun, sleet, wind, rain, darkness, paved roads, dirt roads, fire roads, singletrack, sand, dust, silt, mud, and even slick rock, all concluding with a collapse from exhaustion. I used to be fond of quoting Robert Ives when I said "I may not be the fastest person on a bike, but I can suffer better than anybody." After yesterday, I realized I'm not all that great at suffering either.

You missed the first one....

2011-01-25T20:59:00.000-08:00

But there are at least 4 more in the series. Not for the faint of heart. Or for type A buttholes.

january gravel

2011-01-25T16:55:00.000-08:00

is generally alot like december gravel. bike shown is a holy roller drop bar soulcraft dream bike come real set up fixie and with nerd touring tires for a ride in NW iowa. 4200ft of climbing in a 60 mile loop. us lincolnites lengthened it a bit by commuting to the ride from bellevue which is just south of omaha. ride left from the new(er) pedestrian bridge from omaha to council bluffs in iowa. it's the only pedestrian bridge in the country that connects two states. thanks as usual to cornbread for the pics. hes good at it. i am not.

Ride your BIKE!

2011-01-23T16:03:00.001-08:00

Yes, the temperatures here in San Jose has done nothing except to beckon one to the bike! Here is how my Saturday equated.

Day off+sleep in+late breakfast (danishes from Fleur de Cocoa - thanks Nikola!)+coffee+several hours of riding+music+yoga+beer+wine+Sweet Mango for dinner+friends+movies=happy!

Oh, and before logging out - props to WTB for the saddle. I am liking my new Deva, and I am tough egg to crack when it comes to changing anything bike related once I know it works. Especially if it works well.

CHEERS!

My 15 minutes is here....

2011-01-20T10:15:00.000-08:00

For a couple weeks in November, Mike Evans was out here in the shop filming the making of a Soulcraft frame. Now my secrets are out. He did a killer job. Hope you enjoy it.

FROM STEEL: The Making of a Soulcraft from michael evans on Vimeo.

'Arybody has they own kind of winter, and a shameless thank you..

2011-01-17T16:01:00.000-08:00

Now lookie here... The weather around these parts has been down right frightful. To celebrate the deluge of sun and fun, I went all out and gave my baby some new bar wrap. They say you can't wear white after Labor Day, but nowhere does it mention that your bike can not.

I would also like to take an opportunity to thank one of our team sponsors (if the Bad News Bears can be a team, then by god, so can we). The sponsor in question is GU, and among all of the other amazing products they make, they are responsible for an item that is hands down, and bar none, the best thing that has ever come down my pipe in terms of energy delivering consumables. Their line of Chomps, and most especially their blueberry/pomegranate flavor has rescued me from epic bonks, sugar crashes, and the worst kind of hangover.
Thank you GU. You have saved me from myself more times than I care to recognize.

Winterness

2011-01-03T08:13:00.000-08:00

It's finally snowing in Flagstaff, so there's not much riding happening. Cross-country skiing, instead, with the occasional trip to Sedona.
My best friend from college, Leif, came to visit, and it was good to ride with him. He's the one who introduced me to mtn biking in the first place, and he's from Bodega so he's also the one who told me about Soulcraft all those years ago :)

Don't call it a comeback- I've been here for years.

2010-12-27T21:52:00.000-08:00

I'm a dancer, a romancer, you're a Capricorn and I'm a Cancer.

Things are sometimes under siege by snow in my world, but I recently took the opportunity to get funky in the mud of a Northern California sort. My name is Hurl, and gravity ain't got nothin' on me.

december gravel

2010-12-19T07:56:00.000-08:00

gravel and dirt roads around here have a nice coating of ice and snow. thin coating for now. air temperatures today allowed for some longer mileage, and it was nice to get out into the country.

Perhaps one of the best things ever.

2010-12-14T06:36:00.001-08:00

Found here.

You're welcome.

Human Pincushion, and more fun

2010-11-28T15:34:00.000-08:00

My friend Amber is a naturopathic doc, so when I hurt my knee she offered acupuncture...looks quite awful but actually doesn't hurt, and really seems to help it feel better.

In more fun news, it's Sedona season! Warm sun, slickrock, crazy views, always finished up by a margarita at the Javelina Cantina. Nice way to get out of the snow...

No exceptions Saturdays Part 1 & 2 - Photo Essay (& other cool shit)

2010-11-21T14:18:00.000-08:00

No exceptions Saturdays.

PART 1

The view on the way up.

The view at one of higher points

Decision time. Chose the Serenity Trail & made the right one.

End of ride food. Well, the no remains of the off-the-beaten path BBQ joint. Ok choice. The BBQ was delicious, but not serving beer or any alcohol whatsoever is considered anarchy in the State of Texas when BBQ is involved. The establishment does not deserve hole-in-the-wall status. Lesson learned. The quest continues.

PART 2

Great Rearview mirror shot. Like to see this!

The view on the trail. It was quite tasty.

The view from the top. Here is where the excitement happened. If you have ever woken up at Christmas and found that very thing you had been wishing for, you know the feeling here. Yes, dreams do come true. Waves of sheer bliss took over, and the ride went from a couple hours into several hours. From this picture here, you can see the trails go on for quite a bit. Which is exactly what happened - taken over with that giddiness not comprehending what's in store - then reality hits you. Oh shit, gotta get back somehow. Butt kicked and proud of it.

One of the trails. I like this type of school.

Now, this is definitely what I like to see post ride. Hole-in-the-wall Mexican food complete with a margarita to wash it all down. Would have liked to have seen a shrimp dish on the menu, but chicken fajitas was definitely worthy of trade-off complete with sports TV at the bar in Spanish. Thumbs up!

OTHER COOL SHIT (OCS)

This is the drawing from my very 1st Soulcraft. I printed out the drawing and framed it. I haven't seen this piece of artwork in almost year due to being in storage. It felt good to see it again & look forward to hanging on wall. Look out Picasso.

Here is it is again waiting to be hung above the bikes (see below). Although, I do recommend if you take this route, that some lamination or stronger paper will be needed. I used regular paper, and I noticed it has started to bunch - meaning not holding it's flat, smooth shape.

My herd. All three of them Soulcrafts. Artwork in themselves. Complete with mud, dirt, lots of wear and tear.

This is a blog post. Now I demand the trimmings of sponsorship.

2010-11-21T08:39:00.000-08:00

I kind of assumed a Tijuana picnic would have consisted of a broader assortment of pharmaceuticals, a woman named Juanita and her horny Donkey, but what the hell do I know?
The 70s were a long time ago, and it's foolish for me not to expect change.

In other news;

"Soulcraft Bicycles. We'd give you the shirt off your back."

Sunrise

2010-11-19T08:44:00.001-08:00

This is the sunrise that greeted me on my ride to work today. Best one I've seen in a long time!

USGP New Belgium Cup #2 - Nebraska Friends

2010-11-17T07:40:00.000-08:00

Some photos of Nebraska friends racing in the USGP New Belgium Cup #2 last Sunday in Fort Collins, CO.

[click the banner or click here to see the photos]

NEWS FLASH: Ned Overend Also Crushes on a Cyclocross Bike!

2010-11-17T07:28:00.000-08:00

Ned Overend could race in the 55+, but he races against the young whippersnappers in the 35+ category, and finishes 10th.

USGP New Belgium Cup #2 - Nov 14, 2010 - Fort Collins, CO
Photo by Mitch Kline

western rim trail

2010-11-11T18:15:00.000-08:00

is near fruita, a bit west actually. it can be ridden from the rabbit valley exit. the best part of this trail is a contour ride along the edge above the colorado river valley below.

fall fruita

2010-11-09T10:15:00.001-08:00

took a long weekend from normal life and spent some time in the desert riding bikes and camping.
day 1 - 18 road stuff. we did the end of the edge loop. it was awesome. saw the waterfall for the first time.
day 2 - big loop from rabbit valley. zion curtain, western rim...a day full.
day 3 - gunny loop at grandjunction. new trail out there. loved it.

A call to arms.

2010-11-07T10:34:00.000-08:00

As most of you are probably aware this article has been making a lot waves within the cycling community.

As I just stated elsewhere, the more frequently this happens, the greater chance it becomes of becoming the precedent, and I don't know how to make it happen, but that absolutely cannot stand.

Writing your feelings on a postcard might be a good start.

Judicial District Attorney's Office
Mr. Mark Hurlbert, District Attorney
955 Chambers Rd.,
P.O. Box 295 Eagle, CO
81631 (970) 328-694 7; (970) 328- 1016 fax

Or better yet, sign the petition.

Whatever it takes, do what you have to, to make your voice heard.

No exceptions Saturday

2010-11-06T13:06:00.000-07:00

Kitted up, watered up, snacked up (thank you for peanut butter covered pretzels), pumped up, and now blogged up. TIME TO ROLL OUT! And yes, sunshine, mud, sprinkles of rain, and everything the doctor ordered is being served up today. Little bit of talking about the convert with bike shop dude, and it's gonna be fun. Hopefully, he, they will let me hang out and drink beer during the process. It's just part of it. Could be a deal breaker if not. Sean need to have conversation about this.

For your listening pleasure...and in the meantime.

Hello

2010-11-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile, and I would like thank the stars for this. A LOT has been going on. Made it up to Marin for Biketoberfest, and hit some awesome trails courtesy of one Mr. Ben P. Thanks dude, that was sweet - even the beers and eats afterwards were quite tasty. Bummed not to have any pictures to posted, but riding those trails has left me thirsty for more. I now have a more serious crush on my MTB, and I have a feeling pictures will come. Along with the convert on one of my road bikes - Sean need to have conversation with you about this. I am counting the days until I hit the trails again, and hoping for lots of mud, dirt, sprinkles of rain, sun and beer. I am salivating like Pavlov's dog just thinking about it, and I never knew it could be like this. Saturday. It has to be this Saturday - NO EXCEPTIONS!

sswc10.Somebody had to do it!

2010-11-03T01:08:00.000-07:00

A few images from NZ. Put it on your to do list!

Black metal and tacos?

2010-10-30T06:43:00.000-07:00

What could be better? Via album tacos.

You all should move here

2010-10-19T23:26:00.000-07:00

Friday night the Mrs. and I met Mitch Kline and his Mrs. in The City for dinner at Una Pizza Napolitana. In case you are not aware, Mitch is the guy responsible for the Soulcraft website. He lives in Denver. Booo. The guy working the pizza oven is Anthony Mangieri, owner of said pizzeria and kind of a big deal in the pizza world. He recently shut down his place in Brooklyn and moved west. After a months long battle with The City zoning and permits people, he's finally open. I can't say what an inspiration it was to be at his place and watch him work. Totally stripped down with a complete focus on the art of making pizza. Not at all what most of us grew up eating on Friday nights with the family. Totally blew my wig back.

Anthony owns 3 Soulcrafts, and recently had his old Plowboy shipped out. I spied it on my way to the bathroom.

Anthony telling Mitch he needs to move here.

Great sticker collection.

On Saturday morning before Biketoberfest started we managed a ride at Tamarancho with Paul and Renee from Paul Components and Mike Varley from Black Mountain Cycles. We got in trouble for riding the fire road. "Bikes are supposed to stay on the singletrack!" Yes ma'am!

Biketoberfest has turned into a nice gathering of local frame builders. We've all been seeing a lot of each other lately, which is nice.

We were next to Curtis Inglis. If you want to know what colors will be hot this season, just look at his shoes.

Have you got the eye of the tiger?

2010-10-19T09:40:00.001-07:00

We here in the Soulcraft camp do. They just happen to both be blood shot.

Guess I better start training

2010-10-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Cause I got into 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo as a solo rider. Now I'm scared.
And I haven't been training, at least not for long rides like that. I've been doing this:
And some of this:
And plenty of this:
But, I guess it's not hard to want to go out and ride when the forest looks like this right now:
Yeah, that's nice.

Gran La Fonda

2010-10-10T23:04:00.000-07:00

Our highly unorganized Gran La Fonda bike show the night before Levi Leipheimer's Gran Fondo was an unmitigated success. By setting the bar so low to begin with, we had nowhere to go but up. No fees for the builders or public, free beer, etc., we wanted this to be the anti-bike show. We had somewhere around 15 builders from Portland to Santa Cruz.

As you can see, the accommodations were meager but fitting. A partially burnt-down loading dock makes a way nicer hangout than an expo hall. The guys from Whiskeydrunk Cycles showed up with their Whiskeydrome. Curtis, Jeremy, and I climbed in and took a spin. Completely frightening at first but with a crowd looking on, we represented fairly well.

Whiskeydrunk also brought out their crazy people powered rigs that were built for the Hand Car Regatta. Impressive doesn't begin to cover it.

Handmade bike shows are all the rage these days and with all the great local talent it's a bit of a mystery why we haven't had one here before. Actually, it's not a mystery. We're lazy, and would rather spend our free time riding. Speaking of which, riding was the whole reason behind the show. The next morning all the builders met up to take part in the Gran Fondo.

We even got Bruce Gordon to show up with his insane creation.

We decided the "medio" route of 65 miles would be more to our liking than the 105 mile route. Of course we had to modify that slightly with a run up Willow Creek Rd. Typical of frame builders, we opted to hide from potential customers.

Check out Curtis Inglis and Rick Hunter working on the best way to look cool while waiting around. "So where do I put my right hand?"

We have to acknowledge the crew at Bike Monkey (that's Monkey #2, Greg Fisher, after Patrick Dempsey wouldn't autograph his left breast) for helping us make the Gran La Fonda possible. These guys and gals (15 of them I think) are responsible for pretty much every bike race in Sonoma county (and elsewhere), including the Gran Fondo, which helps raise money to pay for the Tour of California when it rolls through Santa Rosa. In a few short years they have helped make Sonoma county more of a cycling destination than it was already. After looking back on the whole weekend, I have to say I'm even more proud to call this place home. Not that I didn't know what we had here, but to see it all come together like that was inspiring. I can't wait until next year.

Help!!

2010-10-08T14:38:00.000-07:00

Hello Team!
I have a favor to ask...I want to race 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo as a soloist this year, but it sold out in like 6 hours.
However, the nice folks at Epic Rides have opened 10 slots to the people who get the most votes on FaceBook...now I wasn't even part of that social network crap until about an hour ago. But, I want to get into the race!!! So please pretty please, go to Epic Rides Facebook page and find my plea (my name is Lindy Lee on there) and thumbs me up!

Thanks and I'll let y'all know if I get in!

Linden

JANE! STOP THIS CRAZY THING!

2010-10-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

Odds and Sods

2010-09-29T17:32:00.000-07:00

In a week or so Levi's Gran Fondo bike ride is taking place here in Sonoma County. Fondos are all the rage these days and this may be the king of them all. Since there will be thousands of cyclists partaking (like, 6000 to be exact), we local frame builders decided to exploit this opportunity and host a small, invite only (it's open to all the public), handmade bike show on Friday October 8th in Santa Rosa. We're calling it the Gran La Fonda, and we have some pretty prestigious builders coming. You should come by and buy a new bike from one of them.

Next up on the 16th we have Biketoberfest in Fairfax. This event offers 3 of the 4 things necessary for a completely fulfilled life. The 4th one is not hacky sack. Come on by and buy a bike.

We shot our wad(s) in Vegas

2010-09-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

As Steve said below, our collective party at the Peppermill was a huge success, if you consider pissing off the bartenders, getting thrown out of your own party whilst in a headlock (Ritte), and closing the place out with some "French Toast Collage" ($12.95) at 3am a success. Amid the crush of bottom dwelling industry folk, Hollywood slipped us an award for "Best Hardtail 2010" on MTBR.com. Thank you to all of you who helped make that happen by posting great reviews.

For semi-regular viewers of this blog or the AHTBM blog, it might seem as though we live on the fringes of the bike world. Not true. We have our fat little fingers in whatever open crevices/orifices present themselves and like a tapeworm, allow the host to revel in their new found slimness until we poke our heads out for a little air, eliciting screams of horror. Next year we are off to Anaheim for Interbike and plans are already afoot.

Kenosha Pass to Breckenridge

2010-09-27T08:32:00.000-07:00

I took last Friday off to bag a ride that's been high on my list for a long time - Kenosha Pass to Breckenridge via the Colorado Trail. One of the bigger aspen stands lives on Kenosha Pass. Last week was peak color, so we timed this ride perfectly. This is a must-do fall ride in Colorado. I'll let the photos prove it.

The Soulcraft 11 year/AHTBM/Ritte Van Vlaanderen party was a success.

2010-09-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

And why wouldn't have been? All aforementioned enterprises are composed of devilishly good looking individuals, and we all have a fat stash of pinache. Congratulations on your 11th year Soulcraft. Just think about how many brain cells we will murder for your 12th.

Race report: Quicksilver Half Marathon (what, huh?)

2010-09-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

I thought this was an MTB race... Boy I looked stupid, the only one there with a bike. Well, I happened to have a pair of running shoes with me, so I jumped in anyway. The race started off with a 2-ish mile climb under overcast conditions, which was nice. At the top, it was clear who was going to be way, way ahead at the finish. After being full gas, the course eased into a little bit of fireroad downhill before some sharp (ouch) uphill singletrack, then a looonnnngg, open-road downhill to the halfway turnaround. About this time, I was wishing (A) I had signed up for the 10K, (2) gone for a fat road ride, or (C) stayed home and watched Scooby Doo and the gang with Lauren. Since I chose (D) none of the above, I would try and hold my position as best as I could.

I was on pace (or so I think) to at least match my last time around, but everything started to unravel with about 4 to go. Some real runners turned the screws on me from behind, but I had no answer-I was already in the granny. This course teases you a bit, because you end up at the top of the first uphill after the start, but then the guy waives you right and you climb another .6 mile higher. Cruel, but the people who know what they are doing made it look easy. After thinking about Scooby some more, and getting to the top, top by sheer will alone, I took the steep plunge down to the finish and limped in-my wheels completely blown. The downhill run is pretty sketchy-if you can run downhill fast, without wiping it (which I have seen some runners bite it hard in some other races), you have a real advantage. For me, it feels like running with clown shoes or something (slap, slap, slap). Anyway, ended up 4 minutes slower than last time. Still, I give it a 7 out of 10 on the achievement scale and the same for fun factor, although it is more fun after it is over. I did manage to pass a guy that was hurting pretty bad on the last uphill, so could have been worse.

An aquaintance Gary Gellin crushed the race, finishing 7-8 minutes faster than 2nd place (no, he is not from Kenya). Some of you mountainbike racers (and sub-roadies) might remember him as a very fast MTB'er exp./semi-pro and a very, very fast Masters 1, 2, 3. Well, now he puts the hurt on runners, too. When I see him at the 1-2 trail-running events I cherry-pick an off-season, I just say "see ya' at the finish." It looked like he did the 3s's, ate lunch, and had a nap before I came in.

So what you say? What does this have to do with a bike rider's blog? Get to the point? Well, Mr./Mrs. Smart Guy, Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a fun place to do some mountainbiking. It is all open, fireroad climbing, but you can whip up a good little loop. The park is situated on the old site(s) of mercury mines that had their heyday a while back, so if you like that stuff, there are things to look at. It is definitely a hiker, equestrian, pogo-stick friendly kind of place-not good for racing around, but this place used to be off-limits to bikes when I was growing up. Nice to see a united place where we all get along. I usually do a loop through the park, and then do a 2-3 mile road transition to ride Santa Teresa Park-another place that used to be hands-off to bikes. Once again, great; we used to ride mini-bikes/BMX bikes through the early, undeveloped ST Park on dares. So now, no running from the farmers with salt-rock shells for our kids. Both are ideal for the end-of and early season rides/training/easing back into racing. ST Park offers up a teensy bit of singletrack, enough to keep 'em quiet for a while.

Thanks for listening (reading).

Sorry I've been gone a while.

2010-09-20T17:25:00.000-07:00

I've been lost in her eyes.