Mud-club
Chat & Social => The Bar - General Chat => Topic started by: martha focker on November 25, 2007, 22:05:53
-
well he was moaning about us taking up the thread.
ok, what you got and where you go :P
-
At the mo, i'm riding a "winter hack" A 'cheap' Marin with full 'guards.
-
got a 2006 specialized fsr xc pro in the shed...
Really should get out on it more!
-
Hopefully tomorrow.... i'll be popping into see Greeni for a "real" good deal on a nice bike :wink: [-o< [-o< [-o<
-
Here's the present stable;
Click on pics to enlarge
1997 Raleigh Optima (frame/forks only now)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/57/457/2/19/18/2952219180047309372cHCJID_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2952219180047309372cHCJID)
Chrome-Moly (531 equivilant?) frame/fork, built up using the Optima componants.
My day-to-day trainer
Allegedly it's a cross/touring bike, as it has cantilevers, but I doubt it has enough clearance for a decent pair of cross tyres/tubs???
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/52/452/4/84/37/2306484370047309372anQzgT_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2306484370047309372anQzgT)
1994 Dyna-Tech 755Ti. Almost as new, Shimano Ultegra group, bar a Campagnolo Chorus chainset,Look PP196 pedals, Ritchy stem/seat-pin, 'Flite' saddle & Scott 'Drop-Ins' (wow retro, or what???)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/56/56/5/33/46/2249533460047309372WNKcRs_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2249533460047309372WNKcRs)
Trek 6000Disc (with skinnier rubber than when bought in summer)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/32/33/2/33/50/2958233500047309372jYZJDI_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2958233500047309372jYZJDI)
I'm considering buying one of these (http://www.paulmilnescycles.com/cross.htm) though at the moment (the red one)
Past history includes;
1989 Marin Pine Mountain (the first year to use the grey frame & flourscent paint)
1991 Pace Research RC100 (always had rigid forks, not suspension)
Paul Milnes 653 cyclo-cross bike
Orange Aluminium O (shared with SWMBO)
Raleigh Strada 531 commuter/trainer (wrote off in a RTC)
-
I really ought to take issue with the title of the thread, after all you ride them, not push them!!!!
But then I remembered what I had to do yesterday,due to ground conditions, during the 'Cyclists verses Harriers' at Bingley :oops: :oops: :oops:
Ooops...............
-
give me a name and ill change it :lol:
-
Ive got a kona fire mountain nothing exceedingly good but it aint bad for what im using it for coming from work and occasionally just round through the woods and tracks nears us when im using it more and more ill upgrade would like a full sus specialised or kona eventually :twisted:
Want to get up to dalby forest but never get chance oh been to stainburn forest (otley)which is quite interesting :lol:
-
id recommend specialised but have you set yourself a budget?
Always easier to find a bike with a set budget, otherwise its kinda mindboggling.
my first mountain bike was a specialised rockhopper sport, when i was 17....i saved up for months. It was a great bike and my brother still has it!!
My bike, which i use infrequently, is a bitsa. I used to work in the trade so put it together over time. Its a rockymountain blizzard steel frame (900 quid i think), royce ti bottom bracket, tnt cranks, pace rings, xt thumbshifters and Pace MXCD's.....oh and hope ti hubs with mavics and stainless scopes.
dont want to work out what i spent but its still going strong after 12 years so i cant complain....and i commuted 26 miles a day for 3 years on it.
above all get one that fits you properly.
-
Hopefully tomorrow.... i'll be popping into see Greeni for a "real" good deal on a nice bike :wink: [-o< [-o< [-o<
I never saw you.............
-
i
Its a rockymountain blizzard steel frame (900 quid i think), royce ti bottom bracket, tnt cranks, pace rings, xt thumbshifters and Pace MXCD's.....oh and hope ti hubs with mavics and stainless scopes.
I remember the 'Blizzards' of the mid-90's, I knew a few people who rode Rocky Mountains
-
I'm keeping an eye on these 2 at the moment, as they're the right size (54cm C-C)
Kinesis (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Kenesis-Crosslight-Pro3-Cyclo-cross-Easton-Carbon-NR_W0QQitemZ280176565973QQihZ018QQcategoryZ33503QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) Manchester's a bit far to go though
Paul Milnes (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Paul-Milnes-cyclo-cross-bike_W0QQitemZ150187769849QQihZ005QQcategoryZ33503QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) I can be in Keighley almost within a hour, & if I go into the shop (http://www.paulmilnescycles.com) (I'm in Bradford on Friday) they might even know who it belongs to??
This looks good,but definately too far away
Dyna-Tech (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Raleigh-Cyclo-Cross-Bike_W0QQitemZ260186193644QQihZ016QQcategoryZ33503QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem) (almost same colour as my Dyna-Tech)
-
Spend the extra and go for the Kinesis.....
The other 2 are over priced already !!!!
-
Spend the extra and go for the Kinesis.....
The other 2 are over priced already !!!!
What, with a starting bid of £50 for the Milnes????
Aren't the Kinesis & Milnes essentially the same frame??
(like the touches with the Milnes, a flattened top-tube near the seat-tube, for easier shouldering)
Having said that!
I do like these!
Ritchey (http://ritcheylogic.com/web/Ritchey~Logic/Ritchey~Site/Templates/eproducts_single.aspx?id=23160&live=true) :(biglove):
ARC-X (http://www.yeticycles.com/Bikes/BikesCX2008.cfm):(biglove): :(biglove):
-
Spend the extra and go for the Kinesis.....
The other 2 are over priced already !!!!
What, with a starting bid of £50 for the Milnes????
Aren't the Kinesis & Milnes essentially the same frame??
(like the touches with the Milnes, a flattened top-tube near the seat-tube, for easier shouldering)
Having said that!
I do like these!
Ritchey (http://ritcheylogic.com/web/Ritchey~Logic/Ritchey~Site/Templates/eproducts_single.aspx?id=23160&live=true) :(biglove):
ARC-X (http://www.yeticycles.com/Bikes/BikesCX2008.cfm):(biglove): :(biglove):
Oh, you should see what we can do....
I am currently having built, a Single Speed mountain bike frame, in 853 Pro Team tubing, and having it finished in Land Rover Atlantic Green (yes, the 'other' Heritage colour) and Land Rover Cornish Cream colour scheme 8) 8)
You dream it, we make it....
-
Riding a Marin Quake 7.0 - well, was, until I busted (again) the bottom bracket bearings. Hardtail, 24/7 cranks and chainring - DMR 12's (got some great shin scars), azonic handlebars, XT rear mech (8spd), Hopes front & rear, XT 2-finger brakes. Running Tioga factory DH tyres. Now hanging up in the old mans garage. :(
Old bike had a 'snowflake' front wheel - leet. :wink:
-
Riding a Marin Quake 7.0
Old bike had a 'snowflake' front wheel - leet. :wink:
Quakes 'spose to be awesome, one of my lads demo'd one and now has one on the way...
Snowflakes ?? A friends Rocky Mountain Scandium had them......Kinda cool, and wheelbuilding as an art form 8)
-
for amazing spoke patterns check out this guy http://www.terminalvelocity.demon.co.uk/WheelBuild/
Hope to get out on bike later today :-)
-
Hope to get out on bike later today :-)
Been out earlier on the 'yellow bike'
Might even go out for a run :shock: later this afternoon, got to get fitter for the next 'cross', as I expect some of my work-collegues to come & spectate/heckle (as it's in Wakefield)
Hence I can't give them any reason to complain
-
i have a specialised hard rock, on marazoochi bombers... used to be out all day everyday, then just weekends/commuting since passing my driving test in 2001 i`ve only ever seen the odd weekend... when my defender broke i thought it would be a good idea to difg it out and ride the 10min drive to work... 40mins the night before... following morning i got up, made it out of the estate and halfway up the first hill before i aborted the mission due to sore ringpiece....
never suffered that so badly when i was out all the time, amazed how much more difficult it was, sure this is why i`ve always been so slender... time to get chubby now tho!
would like to get on it again in the summer.. but so little free time now :(
have an orange clockwork (vintage!) in france, my dad has a saracen with the ovaltech chainrings... not sure if they actually work or just make you think they do....
-
have an orange clockwork (vintage!) in france, my dad has a saracen with the ovaltech chainrings... not sure if they actually work or just make you think they do....
Orange are still around, but the 'Clockwork' has disappeared from the range (it was there as a 07 bike), the 'Vitamin T' is still there though (remember trying one of those out when they were first released - up at 'Stif' in Leeds)
http://www.orangebikes.co.uk
Weren't the Shimano'ovoid' chainings called 'Bio-Pace'??, my Marin Pine Mountain had them, before I replaced them with proper circular rings
-
Orange, has really lost the a'peel' (couldn't resist).
The old clockwork is worth a few quid, we renovated one for a guy a few weeks ago....
Pace have completely 'sold out' now, I have just bought 7 pairs of there carbon/titanium rigid forks, as they have stopped making them...
My RC200 was sent to them as I snapped it, they welded a plate on it !!!!!
Soon sent me a new one when they found out who I was :wink:
Not many British bike manufacturers now, soon we will be quite rare !
I don't suppose the clockwork is for sale ???
No....behave... :smack:
-
Ended up buying 2 new tyres for my 'yellow bike' yesterday
I'd been out for a ride & caught up with someone on the old turnpike road between Brotherton & Tadcaster (the route that post/stage-coaches left the Great North Road en-route for York, now the A162)
We were riding along chatting, & got to the roundabout where the Leeds-Selby turnpike (A63) crosses it.
I pulled ahead slightly as we crossed the A63, & as he caught up he asked if I'd seen my rear tyre?
No, as it's got full mudguards, so I stopped, had a look & "Bl**dy Hell!"
What a mess!
I knew the front one was well cut-up, but the rear had gone through the tread, into the kevlar belt & had a square profile.
So, I headed for home. Carefully :roll:
Click on pic to enlarge
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/69/5/75/76/2768575760047309372FPuLoK_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2768575760047309372FPuLoK)
I got to roughly where the M62 crosses the a-road on my route home, when it went.
Still, I could have been out on my usual rounds & had it go out 'in the sticks' near Ulleskelf, or somewhere.
I had considered going down to HolmeMoss yesterday as well, so the thought of a rear-tyre instantaneously deflating at (perhaps) 45-50MPH, on an Armco clad descent did not bode well :lol:
Still, it should be okay now, they ride nicely, but still got to try them on a greasy surface
-
One of my mates bought some second hand handle bars off ebay the other day...
They cost him a long walk through Cannock Chase and 8 stitches to the face...
Thing is he knew they were risky, but couldn't resist the price...Fool :lol:
-
Thing is he knew they were risky, but couldn't resist the price...Fool :lol:
Bet he doesn't do the same again??
Still, those tyres have been on since I bought that frame (& new wheels), & will have covered perhaps 4,000-5,000 miles
-
I have a Univega Alpina SL4 full suspension, Nice bike 8)
-
Orange make some fantastic bikes, I have a Patriot, 05 frame 16" it is perfect simple design and handles well, it is 6" travel f/r Marzocchi 66rc forks and Manitou swinger4 rear shock, Raceface diablous cranks, stem bars,seat post,sram x9 throughout,mavic rims 729's on dt swiss hub's Hope mono4 200/180 f/r. was an expensive build but build it once and enjoy I say. I look forward to blasting down them hills again one day.
I think some bike manufacturers have the scorpion racing attitude though, coming up with all these fancy suspension linkages(inovation) they say, just look at motor bikes over the last 20 years. most of the designs have been done over and over. I have ridden and broken many products in my biking years finding what does the job. you do get what you pay for in the mtb world but there is some crap out there that boasts quality. I have a Evil D.O.C street bike too awesome steel frame,
-
dad has a saracen with the ovaltech chainrings... not sure if they actually work or just make you think they do....
I had one of those Saracens, is your Dads one orange with twisted writing on it? Saracen Tufftrax Extreme with double butted cro-mo which back then was really special stuff. I think mine was a 1985ish team bike can't get any info from Saracen or anywhere else.
Biopace rings - I remember trying to get a decent cadence on those 120rpm was my fastest and boy did it feel strange. Principle was to make your power stroke better and when using off-road it sort of did work.
This bike has taken me to 54mph (downhill obviously!) father-in-law bought it off me for his school, not certain where it is now.
-
This is me on my Specialized P3 custom build. and on my Patriot in Cann wood Plymouth.
(http://[img]http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/1DAMPDOG/meonspecialized.jpg)
[/img](http://i102.photobucket.com/albums/m108/1DAMPDOG/Givingitbeans.jpg)
-
Spesh do make some nice bikes, and while others faff and copy the FSR design Horst link or do faux bar suspension at least they have stuck to the design.
Wanted a Spesh Stumpjumper since before the Saracen. Got Stumpy FSRxc Pro with virtually total upgrades, only the frame and rear shock from original bike!
Cann Wood seems a decent place but I've only ridden the plym valley cycle track. We're getting a new one up Tavistock Woodlands down to Morwellham Quay by next year. Tavy woodlands has some pretty decent downhill runs by all accounts.
Us LR clubn got denied our trials site as some world "expert" in arsenic moved there and complained to council about arsenic dust thown up by our tyres. Absolute nonsense of course, but at least bikes being allowed in there now.
-
Also another previous bike
Spesh Hardrock Sport, again various upgrades mostly to LX and XT, also some Marzocchi Junior-T's and a Thudbuster for rear-end. Still got the thudbuster and all elastomers. Doesn't seem any point sticking it on the Stumpy. Baby-Bell on handlebar is Specialized Computer.
Mrs now has a Raleigh Max-Lite FS-1 from about 2001
-
Cann Wood seems a decent place but I've only ridden the plym valley cycle track. We're getting a new one up Tavistock Woodlands down to Morwellham Quay by next year. Tavy woodlands has some pretty decent downhill runs by all accounts.
I've forgotten my Cornish geography due to (sadly) not visiting for a few years (ought to make a point of going back in 2008), but I've been to Margam Park (Plymouth??) a few years ago, if I remember correctly,for the English round of the Grundig.
It was the days of such riders as Tomac, Frischnect & Henrik Djernies both Ritchey), etc.....
-
Chipshop is a great spot for riding just t'other of Tavistock. run by Woodland Riders club, based at Dartmoor cycles in Tavi. Derek is the owner manager spot on bloke. I call him Uncle wainright, because you can't leave the shop without buying something. :lol: :lol:
-
Whilst the forthcoming (so called) 'festivities' are by no stretch of the imagination a favouite 'holiday' of mine, I found this 'seasonal' item most charming
http://www.specialized.com/bc/microsite/holiday/index.html
-
I've forgotten my Cornish geography due to (sadly) not visiting for a few years (ought to make a point of going back in 2008), but I've been to Margam Park (Plymouth??) a few years ago, if I remember correctly,for the English round of the Grundig.
It was the days of such riders as Tomac, Frischnect & Henrik Djernies both Ritchey), etc.....
Newnham Park, great place, amazing watching Tomac et. al. riding down pipeline. We (C&D LRC) use Newnham for RTV/CCV and the occaisonal Comp Safaris. Held 2001/2 National there, I was Section 1 Leader on RTV and "Time Lord" for the Comp. as I'd written the timing program 5 years before and we had a group of 6 people in the timing unit. I acted as bouncer on the door and resolved the two issues we had all day. I wouldn't let the Event organisers in the door to mess up the timing. Diana and Steve comentating were amazed when I came in just after the first lap and presented them with lap 1 times only 5 minutes after the lap had finished.
-
Chipshop is a great spot for riding just t'other of Tavistock. run by Woodland Riders club, based at Dartmoor cycles in Tavi. Derek is the owner manager spot on bloke. I call him Uncle wainright, because you can't leave the shop without buying something. :lol: :lol:
Yep that's where I meant - Chipshop is Tavy Woodlands and was orginally Great Devon Consols which at one point in 1890's had 5 times the arsenic to kill the entire world population!
Derek is a top bloke and I know exactly what you mean about having to buy something everytime you waltz in :)
-
not into bikes but my wee bro is
this is his ride
(http://i5.pinkbike.com/photo/1626/pbpic1626090.jpg)
-
I've forgotten my Cornish geography due to (sadly) not visiting for a few years (ought to make a point of going back in 2008), but I've been to Margam Park (Plymouth??) a few years ago, if I remember correctly,for the English round of the Grundig.
It was the days of such riders as Tomac, Frischnect & Henrik Djernies both Ritchey), etc.....
Newnham Park, great place, amazing watching Tomac et. al. riding down pipeline.
That's the place. Told you I'd forgotten :oops:
We drove down very early on Sunday morning, watched the race & drove home, tehn back to work on Monday morning. Mad!!!
-
1991 Pace Research RC100 (always had rigid forks, not suspension)
Don't suppose you remember the frame number? I'd be quite interested in knowing a little more about "Ugly", like an approximate age.
-
1991 Pace Research RC100 (always had rigid forks, not suspension)
Don't suppose you remember the frame number? I'd be quite interested in knowing a little more about "Ugly", like an approximate age.
RC 169, if I remember correctly.
I think the sequence started at 100, as per the model name
-
Having said that!
I do like these!
Ritchey (http://ritcheylogic.com/web/Ritchey~Logic/Ritchey~Site/Templates/eproducts_single.aspx?id=23160&live=true) :(biglove):
ARC-X (http://www.yeticycles.com/Bikes/BikesCX2008.cfm):(biglove): :(biglove):
OOOHHHH!!!!!!!! (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/YETI-ARC-X-2008-CYCLO-CROSS-FRAME-CHRIS-KING-NEW_W0QQitemZ270186450549QQihZ017QQcategoryZ22679QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD1VQQcmdZViewItem) :(biglove):
-
I've finally got the results from my last race
http://www.bingleyharriers.co.uk/hvc_07.htm
82 from 97 starters
My time of 54:16 means that the first runner bet me by 18:07 minutes, conversely I bet the last one by 14:35 minutes
-
7 weeks & counting
(to the next event)
-
7 weeks & counting
(to the next event)
Which is ???????????????
-
7 weeks & counting
(to the next event)
Which is ???????????????
This one; Thornes Park (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/cyclo_cross_calendar.asp?evt_cp=3&evt_mode=1&evt_id=%7B8A25682E-249F-433A-9B81-AA5285F4E678%7D&evt_seriesid=&evt_myevents=No&RefID=&RefType=&evt_month=All&evt_kw=&evt_regions=All+Regions&evt_disc=Cyclo-Cross&evt_class=&evt_cat=&evt_series=&evt_resultspp=20), which is just to the south-west of the city-centre (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=432500.999999447&Y=419500.943846464&width=700&height=400&gride=432399.999999447&gridn=419599.943846464&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=grid&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=1&scale=25000), on the route to the M1-south (jct39)
-
Kona Coiler-use it quite a bit at Kirroughtree and Keilder-quite like it not that I'm an expert or owt.
-
I quite fancy also replacing my Dyna-Tech (road-bike) with something a bit newer, like a Trek Madone
-
Here's my new custom frame, came out of the oven on Saturday night..
Finished in Land Rover colours, a Mountain Bike Single Speed frame...
853 Team tubing, stainless polished drop outs....
Note the 'GREENI' on the top tube..... SWEEEET
http://picasaweb.google.com/Rourke953/HotOutTheOven/photo#5144347481681635154
-
Looks rather nice!!!!!!!!
I'm a bit 'off it' at the moment, went out Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday.
Thursday, I did also but had that feeling of being a 'Tortoise On A Tricycle' :(
It was quite foggy yesterday, so it stayed in the garage.
Got to work early today - 11:00 instead of 14:00 :(, so no ride today. I'm there until 22:00, & back at 05:30 in the morning.
Looks like being out tomorrow afternoon instead :roll:
-
I know what you mean Rich, I've been off the bike all week, due to all sorts of reasons, going do a big week this coming week, ready for the Xmas fodder !!!!
Though will be out biking with the Wife Boxing Day, so I'll probably get dropped :cry:
-
i want my bike sprayed glow in the dark colour :lol:
-
mike your bro is lucky to have a big hit!!
im running a DMR rythem 24" with D3 folks!!
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/Website%20Signs%20And%20Logos/MyBike1.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/Website%20Signs%20And%20Logos/MyBike3.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/Website%20Signs%20And%20Logos/MyBike2.jpg)
x-up
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/Website%20Signs%20And%20Logos/Dan012.jpg)
x-up 1 footer
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/Website%20Signs%20And%20Logos/Dan018.jpg)
-
Daft question perhaps Dan, but where's the front brake?
-
To my shame I decided it was too cold to go out again this afternoon (big wuss!!!!)
There was ice at work today that was almost 7" thick, as the Estates Department was testing a couple of fire hydrants last night.
So, my usual route will possibly be quite bad too
I have to go out tomorrow!
-
Daft question perhaps Dan, but where's the front brake?
Get hip !!!! :lol:
We are out tonight...it's very cold and very windy....
And Dan.....down the road from ,is the PLAZA, Europe largest skate park !!!!
-
Daft question perhaps Dan, but where's the front brake?
Get hip !!!! :lol:
We are out tonight...it's very cold and very windy....
And Dan.....down the road from ,is the PLAZA, Europe largest skate park !!!!
really where??
BTM i dont have a front break have never riden with one never will do :D
on my old BMX i use to ride breakless!!
:D
-
the plaza is the biggest and is mint 8)
-
Here's my new toy :wink:
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/brianrourkecycles/Rourke853SinglespeedSteveSNewToy
-
I had a ride-out today, as SWMBO was on 'school-run' duties on her way home.
It was extremely busy though, I wonder if it was still a bit of a carry-over from the multiple RTC on the M62 this morning, as I'm not sure what time the Police re-opened that section
(we expected a 'MAJAX' being declared due to the number of involved vehicles, but casualty numbers precluded that)
Having not been out since last Wednesday, I felt fine :D
I ought to take the Trek out & do a bit of running with it, & get a bit better at the 'fast remounts' (ie; jumping into the saddle & picking up the pedals)
I can do the 'fast dismounts' without falling flat on my face. That's the one where the right foot is unclipped (from the SPD) & is placed to the ground between a (still clipped) left foot & the crank.
As the right foot touches ground- the left is unclipped & you quite literally 'hit the ground running'
As seen here, at about the 40 - 48 second mark
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=EcXW6ElQw3s
-
hoffman bama brakeless, 21"
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/bama.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/29_08_200717_36_0001.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/29_08_200717_35_0001.jpg)
(http://
found some better pics
[img]http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/714340788_l.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/714338381_l.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/l_23107234517c41e2970960f63c289c4c.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/l_d1ed3ef683caef2473806e82396cb4b6.jpg)
-
hoffman bama brakeless, 21"
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/bama.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/29_08_200717_36_0001.jpg)
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/29_08_200717_35_0001.jpg)
(http://
this was a brakeless T1 barcode.....which snapped!
[img]http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/714340788_m.jpg)
ages ago, opposite grind
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/DSCF1302.jpg)
180 the spine about 2 years ago
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/Mail0011.jpg)
and in my spare time i chop up landrovers! :lol: :lol: :lol:
nice bike mate my old BMX cost me just over £1.200 and then it got nicked about this time last year!!
fit frame, profile cranks, etc etc u can tell from the pics lol :)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/9aad86977cdc61a318c081d2ce929de2.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/6871c4954c05e37d39d4a21654c49c4a.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/cd05b258d744f55e8b17f84dbbb0b749.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/goodday015.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/image02.jpg)
^^ thats what it looked like before i painted it!!
old bike! dragonfly
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/i123188216_22257.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/i105856326_38612.jpg)
(http://i168.photobucket.com/albums/u192/littledan_19/My%20Bike/i97809338_89993.jpg)
-
haha is that a dragonfly tech!?! i had one and snapped the head tube off of it!....which is the same thing that happend to the grey t1 in the other pics
-
nah it wasnt a tech, it was the one with the swear word in it cant member the name
-
Out today for about 30miles (only allowed out for hour & half, or so)
By gum it was a bit chilly & damp!
Had to call at 'Squires' (http://www.squires-cafe.co.uk/index.html) for a pot of tea, if only to wrap my hands around it :lol:
Got back not able to feel fingers or toes (despite thermal/'foam' gloves & over-shoes) :roll:
Going to go out after work tomorrow & Sunday too (hope to be home for 14:00 both days)
-
I just ordered myself an Eastern Bikes Ace of Spades 08.......
-
I just ordered myself an Eastern Bikes Ace of Spades 08.......
keep an eye on the welds mate, i had an eastern for about 3months and it brook!
-
Just ordered a new bike this morning, arrives on Friday ;)
-
What have you had Richard ??
I haven't been out for 3 weeks now, got this flu bug...
I was so fed up with not riding, I rode work on Monday and made myself worse !!!
-
What have you had Richard ??
Well I'll admit, I was actually looking at this beauty, when she asked me if I was buying..........
(http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/2008/road/madone/madone55pro/)I haven't been out for 3 weeks now, got this flu bug...
I was so fed up with not riding, I rode work on Monday and made myself worse !!!
I had that over New Year, in bed from the Saturday afternoon, 'til Tuesday morning. Barely knew who I was at points, let alone where I was
-
What have you had Richard ??
Well I'll admit, I was actually looking at this beauty, when she asked me if I was buying..........
(http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/2008/road/madone/madone55pro/)I haven't been out for 3 weeks now, got this flu bug...
I was so fed up with not riding, I rode work on Monday and made myself worse !!!
I had that over New Year, in bed from the Saturday afternoon, 'til Tuesday morning. Barely knew who I was at points, let alone where I was
Mmm the wife's in bed ill with it now, it's not good...
So.....to clarify....have you had the Madone ??? ( we have just built a bike up at the shop today...£8k..will put the link up, when it's been photo'd)
-
I got myself a second hand Univega Alpina SL3...it's been ridden once by the previous owner :shock: ...all part of the New Year get fit again campaign :roll: :lol:
Looks like this...
(http://im.edirectory.co.uk/p/3294/i/u5alp04.jpg)
-
No, sadly I didn't get a Madone :angry:
I also looked at the 'Discovery' logo-d (aluminium) Treks, but no - t'was not to be.
I bought a Pinnacle 'Expede' (http://www.evanscycles.com/product.jsp?style=70740)
I actually hadn't intended buying a bike, just a new set of cone-spanners & bottom-bracket tools, but SWMBO started asking if they sold Cross-bikes.
I know the manager, as I used to race MTB/cross with him, quite a few years ago, so he started telling me (us) what stock they had.
So, one was found in my size & a test-ride (in jeans, boots & fleece :oops: :oops:) ensued
My eye was also taken by the Bianchi Axis (http://www.evanscycles.com/product.jsp?style=60796), but they didn't have my size
-
L90ook...no pic !!! Well, didn't load up on my zx spectrum anyway !
Richard, looks fine that fella...all ten speed... :clap:
-
L90ook...no pic !!! Well, didn't load up on my zx spectrum anyway !
Richard, looks fine that fella...all ten speed... :clap:
Works for me?? :?
-
L90ook...no pic !!! Well, didn't load up on my zx spectrum anyway !
Richard, looks fine that fella...all ten speed... :clap:
Photo didn't load for me either
Steve, now the problem is that all of my other 700C wheels are all 8-speed (plus, a solitary 7-speed rear)
So, I'll have to perhaps get a spare-pair for cross next winter, and also relegate the Trek 6000 (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2958233500047309372jYZJDI) to back-up duties ;)
-
Picked it up this afternoon, before the 'school-run', so not had chance to try it out properly yet.
I've only set the saddle height/setback as yet, it'll need fine tuning with a ride after work tomorrow.
I might even go throw it round the local wood, as there's a single-track running through it, & a long twisting descent down to the banks of the River Calder
-
Singletrack Rules !!! Better than any road ride :shocked:
-
Singletrack Rules !!! Better than any road ride :shocked:
Not too sure about that??
I like pounding the tarmac, as I like to get into a rhthym on a decent road.
I have found out one really stupid thing about it already, wish I'd looked at it beforehand :evil:
You can't (easily) take a wheel out with an inflated tyre, as the long (ie; curved) brake-blocks are limited in their travel by the fork-blades & seat-stays :doh: :doh: :doh:
Now, that's silly!!!
Plus, to give an additional problem to the brakes, there's the stupid 'Lawyer-Lugs' on the front drop-outs, for those people (usually Americans??) who don't realise that a Quick-Release needs to be securely closed
(cue a few minutes with a File :-$)
Oh well, when the blocks need replacing, a set of Aztecs, or such ought to solve the problem???
I might get SWMBO to take the Trek to Thornes Park in the car next Sunday, just in case of puncture???
(no spare wheels......... yet........ unless an 8-speed changes adequately with the 10-speed set-up??)
-
Singletrack Rules !!! Better than any road ride :shocked:
(no spare wheels......... yet........ unless an 8-speed changes adequately with the 10-speed set-up??)
[-X Won't go i'm afraid, the index won't work, the chain is too thin etc etc,
-
The 'Expide' page (http://www.pinnacle-bikes.co.uk/Bike-Range/Hybrid-Commuter/eXpede/?contentId=355) on the Pinnacle website.
Yorkshire Cyclo-Cross (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/)
I've even got a date now for this years 'Cyclists verses Harriers' at Bingley. SWMBO has just started her running again, & has passed the comment that;
"I'll get up to speed, some miles in, a pair of fell-running shoes, run it and beat me!"[/b]
Now that's 'fighting talk' [-X
I had previously considered doing the same, doing more running, & doing it on foot this time, but signing in under my cycling club and running in their colours 8-[
Bingley Harriers 'C v H' (http://www.bingleyharriers.co.uk/hvc.htm)
-
Got it partly sorted out now, with a ride earlier
Might need a longer stem, but I'll just try flipping it over first.
Click on pic to enlarge
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/169/9/12/55/2328912550047309372ZIABOM_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2328912550047309372ZIABOM)
-
that looks sweet, but how will swaping the stem over do to the length, or will it go lower :D
-
that looks sweet, but how will swaping the stem over do to the length, or will it go lower :D
It'll give me a longer reach (ie; shoulders to bar)
I rode that and my 'yellow bike' back-to-back, & the difference in the handlebar height is about 4"!!
Plus those 32c tyres don't half 'drag' on the road, almost as bad as the Specialised Houffalize on the Trek (although they're still a quantum improvement over the original 2.1 Bontragers that were on it)
I think if it's going to get any serious road-use over the summer, it'll need a pair of decent 25c (at the most) tyres
-
ill be in the shop soon greenie, as a haxsaw doesn't cut a steera tube properly :doh: lukily i didn't cut too much off :clap:
-
Road tyres Richard... Michelin Pro Race 2's are the ones we spec each and every time..
We offer a measure up service, if you want to be on your bike, in the most efficient way, come see us...we have people travel from all over Europe for it....it makes a difference...appointment needed though !!That's why most of our business is custom made frames ;)
@ Martha, a hacksaw is the right tool, just better through a guide !!!!
-
well i did it free hand :roll:
-
Here's my new bike I welded, brazed, and painted it myself.
(http://inlinethumb26.webshots.com/41817/2908677770102734829S600x600Q85.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2908677770102734829OncbdN)
more pics
http://picasaweb.google.com/Rourke953/853_PT_SS
-
Road tyres Richard... Michelin Pro Race 2's are the ones we spec each and every time..
@ Martha, a hacksaw is the right tool, just better through a guide !!!!
I put a pair of Continental 'Ultra' (23c) on my 'yellow bike' & they seem quite good on all road surfaces. So far
Martha; I used a pipe-cutter (one of the rotary ones) on the Treks bars, when I bought it
-
Here's my new bike I welded, brazed, and painted it myself.
That looks good!!
-
Road tyres Richard... Michelin Pro Race 2's are the ones we spec each and every time..
@ Martha, a hacksaw is the right tool, just better through a guide !!!!
I put a pair of Continental 'Ultra' (23c) on my 'yellow bike' & they seem quite good on all road surfaces. So far
Martha; I used a pipe-cutter (one of the rotary ones) on the Treks bars, when I bought it
i tried that but the bar was too big for the one i got :roll:
-
Thanks Bush Tucker Man!
-
i like the colour rourke :clap:
-
Thanks Bush Tucker Man!
No worries.
Still don't fully understand the appeal of singe-speeds :-k
Got it partly sorted out now, with a ride earlier
Might need a longer stem, but I'll just try flipping it over first.
Click on pic to enlarge
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/169/9/12/55/2328912550047309372ZIABOM_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2328912550047309372ZIABOM)
'Flipped' it this morning. Miles better, far lower now :)
It still might just need to go down the 'steerer-tube' an inch or so to be more or less 'spot on'
Click on pic to enlarge
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/65/765/8/42/93/2563842930047309372KRfbdE_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2563842930047309372KRfbdE)
-
good god! how do you guys ride with seats that high! i know its not a bmx or a down hill bike but still!
-
good god! how do you guys ride with seats that high! i know its not a bmx or a down hill bike but still!
They're appropriate to the correct distance to the pedal, & equally importantly the knee angles, and saddle set-back (how far it is pushed rearwards on the seatpin)
-
good god! how do you guys ride with seats that high! i know its not a bmx or a down hill bike but still!
Not much crotch room on those big frames either!
-
....i know all about frame geometry with relation to handelbar height and seat height and crank length and tyre pressure and all that but its just not comfortable!
lower your seat and stand up when you want to go fast! :lol: :lol: :lol:
-
....i know all about frame geometry with relation to handelbar height and seat height and crank length and tyre pressure and all that but its just not comfortable!
lower your seat and stand up when you want to go fast! :lol: :lol: :lol:
Mmmm, I used to race BMX....a LOT, and you are right of course...
it's a little different when you are on a road bike.......
-
Yes go and try doing 100 miles on your 20"er :shocked:
And yes I was a BMXer, well still are it never leaves you :evil:
-
i done 50/60 on it! norwich/ myplace......i missed the train :oops: was a bit knackering but a bloody good work out!
-
my mane problem isn't the seat, but my bloody super taky tires :twisted: how slow are they blimin ank, plus the single speed son't help with triple clamp boxers on it :lol:
-
Not much crotch room on those big frames either!
My Dyna-Tech is 54.5cm centre-to-centre.
The 'yellow-bike' is (I think?) 55cm centre-to-centre
The (new) Pinnacle 'Expede' is 54cm centre-to-top (measured horizontally, as it has a sloping top-tube)
-
FAO Boss
50/60 your mad!
To be fair me and Greeni used to ride everywhere, we'd ride our BMXs (well race one and other)15-20 miles to an race track, rip around all day, win, ride back. with a trophy sellotaped to our handlebars.
Then we got a van and we were then ****!
-
i have been called that before yes, i run 120psi in front and 110 in the rear tyres too so its never the comfyest of rides also the 39x11 gearing doesn't help :? all cobbled together with no brakes. marvelous! nice and fast though, i do give it to ya, when i was riding distance on that i would have wanted a bigger bike but i defiantly have more fun on the little ones.
-
7 weeks & counting
(to the next event)
Which is ???????????????
This one; Thornes Park (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/cyclo_cross_calendar.asp?evt_cp=3&evt_mode=1&evt_id=%7B8A25682E-249F-433A-9B81-AA5285F4E678%7D&evt_seriesid=&evt_myevents=No&RefID=&RefType=&evt_month=All&evt_kw=&evt_regions=All+Regions&evt_disc=Cyclo-Cross&evt_class=&evt_cat=&evt_series=&evt_resultspp=20), which is just to the south-west of the city-centre (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=432500.999999447&Y=419500.943846464&width=700&height=400&gride=432399.999999447&gridn=419599.943846464&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=grid&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=1&scale=25000), on the route to the M1-south (jct39)
And tomorrow's the day :D
I feel good, almost to the point of I might shout "No Chain!" as I pass where SWMBO will be stood :lol:
(if I feel the same during the event........... obviously :roll:)
-
Best of luck Richard, keep us informed.
-
I feel good, almost to the point of I might shout "No Chain!" as I pass where SWMBO will be stood :lol:
(if I feel the same during the event........... obviously :roll:)
Blimey!, that was hard!!
Very wet, sticky, & indeed,'claggy' at one point.
I had to stop 3 times to drag all the mud out from the chain-stays & fork crown
I think I did better than usual too :)
(due to new purpose-designed bike)
I didn't feel like shouting about my chain :oops:
Results will be posted as soon as I know them.
Photos added this evening, or in the morning
-
Results will be posted as soon as I know them.
The results are now up.............
Seniors/Vets event (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2007/Winterseries2007/HuddsSW2008.htm)
23rd/39; Overall
10th/20; Age-Group
I think I did better than usual too :)
(due to new purpose-designed bike)
Apparantly I did :grin:
-
Just added the photos to my 'www' in the 'Cycling. 4' album.
There's not a lot of variation in angles/backgrounds as SWMBO didn't wander too far from the lap-counters/finish-line
-
speaking of chains, just got one of these.....cost £25 and [!Expletive Deleted!] up a parktool chain splitter. anyone else running this sort of thing?
i go through chains quicker than tyres and this some aint so posed to break. so it would be nice to know if i can rely on it
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a318/goochbag/464041_Silver.gif)
-
Get one off a moped :lol:
-
Had the day off it yesterday :oops: (even had a slice of Chocolate cake in the evening!! First cake of any kind this year)
After all, the season ended for me on Sunday ;)
I did go out for a short run last night though, & got fairly wet in the rain.
Debating whether to go out on bike today, or have today off as well?????????
-
Good result RT...
Definately the right time take a well earned break (whilst it's raining! )
-
Good result RT...
Definately the right time take a well earned break (whilst it's raining! )
Thanks, considering that the winner was an ex-British Champion (& World Championship squad member), & I belive that another highly placed rider is an ex-Junior champion
-
I know I stated a couple of posts above this one that the Cyclo-Cross season had ended for me on Sunday 20th, however................... I found a new event, well it wasn't listed on Saturday :?
The Greetland Handicap (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/cyclo_cross_calendar.asp?evt_cp=1&evt_mode=1&evt_id=%7B40174445-CAD9-419E-BC68-2F112E82AC4D%7D&evt_seriesid=&evt_myevents=No&RefID=&RefType=&evt_month=All&evt_kw=&evt_regions=All+Regions&evt_disc=Cyclo-Cross&evt_class=&evt_cat=&evt_series=&evt_resultspp=20)
I'm on day-off that Sunday too. Hmmm.. :-k :-k
It's a hard choice, as an old friend, who raced at Thornes Park (my last event at Wakefield) with me has asked if I want to join him up at Dalby Forest for a ride round their bike-trails
Decisions, decisions :-k :-k
(especially as I've put the Trek up for sale/PX)
-
I'm off this week (well, bar 2 days, until 5th March :dance:), but sadly it's been a bit breezy up here so far (I finished on Monday 4th)
I could do with a few totally still days, as I've got a few long rides in my head, but don't fancy the idea of getting perhaps a hilly 30+ miles return journey & having a head-wind all the way back home :twisted:
Still, I think I'm racing this Sunday (as mentioned in the previous posting) up at Greetland, so that'll be nice!
-
Since I last posted, I've been doing roughly 2 to 2.5 hours a night, with a 40min run in the morning, and then 4 hours at the weekend...
Dropped a bit of weight, but still loads to go.
Should be fit for the 24 hour races in the Summer !
Trouble is, I have lots of spannering to do on the 90 aswell !!!
-
Since I last posted, I've been doing roughly 2 to 2.5 hours a night, with a 40min run in the morning, and then 4 hours at the weekend...
Dropped a bit of weight, but still loads to go.
Should be fit for the 24 hour races in the Summer !
Trouble is, I have lots of spannering to do on the 90 aswell !!!
That's a lot more than me, especially on the running front - I hate it, but need to do it
-
I know I stated a couple of posts above this one that the Cyclo-Cross season had ended for me on Sunday 20th, however................... I found a new event, well it wasn't listed on Saturday :?
The Greetland Handicap (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/cyclo_cross_calendar.asp?evt_cp=1&evt_mode=1&evt_id=%7B40174445-CAD9-419E-BC68-2F112E82AC4D%7D&evt_seriesid=&evt_myevents=No&RefID=&RefType=&evt_month=All&evt_kw=&evt_regions=All+Regions&evt_disc=Cyclo-Cross&evt_class=&evt_cat=&evt_series=&evt_resultspp=20)
I'm on day-off that Sunday too. Hmmm.. :-k :-k
Bike sorted. Kit packed
SWMBO's told me she's not going to this one, so................. I hope there's someone there I know to hold the 110's keys whilst I dash round the fields/woods like a lunatic :roll:
It's a hard choice, as an old friend, who raced at Thornes Park (my last event at Wakefield) with me has asked if I want to join him up at Dalby Forest for a ride round their bike-trails
Decisions, decisions :-k :-k
(especially as I've put the Trek up for sale/PX)
Sorry Nick old buddy, but it looks like 'cross'
Far too early during annual-leave to dash off up to Dalby Forest for several hours
-
Blimey!!
That was a fast race, even allowing for the shorter time of it.
Lots of grass, a twisty sandy section (could double as a BMX track), some single-track in the scrub.
Plus a couple of trips up a banking - very slippery! (failed it every time)
It was really a 'support' event for the British Schools Cycling Association (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/) Cyclo-Cross Championships.
Sorry no photos of me, as I did have to go by myself, only of the race prior to ours (14-16 year age group)
Ours was run as a 'Handicap Event'.
The ladies set off first (@ 14:35)
Veteran 60 next (@2:00 minutes)
Veteran 50 (@ 3:00)
Veteran 40 ( @ 5:00)
Seniors (@ 6:00)
I got a reasonable start, 3rd (?) in age-group, then gained about 5 places in just over a lap :)
By 'the bell', I was in a tussle with 2 riders, I managed to drop one on the last field stretch.
The other one just got away at a sprint-finish, I reckon (so did he, upon a hand-shake after crossing the line) that I'd have had him if it had been another 10 yards, as he was fading fast.
Sorry, no idea of places yet. I checked the above link just prior to typing this
My few photos will be added to my 'www' later this evening, & the results when I know them.
Phil Norfolk, one of the 'Schools' organisers had a list for a 'Summer Cross Series', so that'll be under examination, as soon as it's added to the site
-
Well, I've had a few decent rides during this past month off work.
Didn't get down to HolmeMoss though (yet...............)
I've even managed to do a few runs, still suffering to get past about 3 miles, but that's probably in my head as much as anything?
Oh!, I was just browing round 'YouTube' & found these 2 Nike adverts, & a nice poster
(http://i16.ebayimg.com/01/i/000/d4/4a/e816_1.JPG)
I wish I was that fast on a 'cross-bike' :clap:
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=igEGZ2sQ2GY
This one............ just made me smile :)
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=oXAleHsmgEg&NR=1
-
It was really a 'support' event for the British Schools Cycling Association (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/) Cyclo-Cross Championships.
The results appeared a few days later
They're marked me down as being older than I am ::), but..... the result stands
Greetland Handicap (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2007/Winterseries2007/BSCA.htm)
Overall; 11/24
Age-Group they show me in; 2/8
Combined Vet 40/45 Age-Groups; 5/12
11th out of 24, not too bad, given the Handicaps listed earlier in this thread
Plus, there's a 'Summer Series' on the website, I;ve got every date as either an early shift, or as leave.
So, that's another 6 (local'ish') races to do :doh:
-
And if any of you want to read a bit more about this exceptional, & indeed world beating, athlete
'Lance Armstrong.com' (http://www.lancearmstrong.com/) (read the 'About'. Resting Heart-Rate; 32/34BPM!!)
'LiveStrong' (http://www.livestrong.org/)
Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lance_Armstrong)
2:59.36 (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/olympics/2006-11-05-marathon-lance_x.htm) (winner = 2:09.58)
-
Ive got a kona fire mountain nothing exceedingly good but it aint bad for what im using it for coming from work and occasionally just round through the woods and tracks nears us
I'd be interested to know where there is near you, & maybe accompany you??
In fact I passed your house on Wednesday morning (http://www.northernboghoppers.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?f=1&t=3276)
Want to get up to dalby forest but never get chance oh been to stainburn forest (otley)which is quite interesting :lol:
I got asked up to Dalby Forest a couple of weeks ago (Sunday 10th February), but decided to compete in a Cyclo-Cross over at Greetland instead
as written a couple of postings above this one
-
Heck Richard, aren't you a busy little bee....
You'll be telling everyone ' I haven't done much' & 'Not been able to get out' and other cyclist fairytales !!!
Keep it up, I am reading your posts, I just have little time just lately...oh yeah, watch your post box......(though I forgot post it today :rolleyes:)..I'm busy too !!
-
Heck Richard, aren't you a busy little bee....
You'll be telling everyone ' I haven't done much' & 'Not been able to get out' and other cyclist fairytales !!!
S'true!!
I only went out for 2 hours on Wednesday, 1 hour yesterday & not at all today - far too windy (to the point of not being safe!!)
Keep it up, I am reading your posts, I just have little time just lately...oh yeah, watch your post box......(though I forgot post it today :rolleyes:)..I'm busy too !!
You've got me intrigued!!
All that dropped through the post box today was the new 'LRW'
No comments on the 'Lance' clips???
-
No comments on the 'Lance' clips???
Nowt special about that, i've snogged loads of fat elephants !!! :shocked:
Lance is a real life miracle...he has abnormal lungs and heart, he ain't to popular in France though..and that advert wouldn't mean anything to most Brits either..
I went see the Champs Elysee stage a couple of years ago (2003) in Paris (obviously), and these guys are so tiny.
We have loads of Pro and ex Pro riders in our shop all the time, and it's amazing how much their faces are drawn, they carry no fat..
Brian (my boss) was talking to Graeme Obree, and he rode to London from Scotland and he worked out how much energy he would use, and ate the same amount of kcals in Weetabix !!!
Another real life Hero that most people don't know !!
-
No comments on the 'Lance' clips???
Nowt special about that, i've snogged loads of fat elephants !!! :shocked:
Tell us more.....................
Lance is a real life miracle...he has abnormal lungs and heart, he ain't to popular in France though..and that advert wouldn't mean anything to most Brits either.
Anything not French isn't popular over that side of the Channel though!
I went see the Champs Elysee stage a couple of years ago (2003) in Paris (obviously), and these guys are so tiny
I haven't been so lucky, but saw the finish in Brighton in 1994, & the Paris-Rouxbaix the same year (the Arenburg forest is an amazing stage!!!!!!!)
We have loads of Pro and ex Pro riders in our shop all the time, and it's amazing how much their faces are drawn, they carry no fat
When the Leeds Classic was being held (in the mid-90's) I rode with Motorola & part of the GAN team.
No Greg, but a young Armstrong & also Yates.
They wanted to get out of the centre of Leeds for a ride, so I offered to show them.......
Blimey!!!!!!!!! talk about fast!! :oops:
Plus, I've spoken to a few cross pro's/British squad riders & they're the same; Chris Young (used to know his brother fairly well), Tim Gould, David Baker, etc....
Brian (my boss) was talking to Graeme Obree, and he rode to London from Scotland and he worked out how much energy he would use, and ate the same amount of kcals in Weetabix !!!
Another real life Hero that most people don't know !!
The 'flying Scot', with the washing machine bike & the 'Superman' position
-
Thankfully the wind had died quite substantially by early this afternoon, so upon returning home after a shopping trip into Wakefield, I decided I was off for a ride.
It was, I guess, the usual route in my head, but with a few alterations.
So, under the M62 (jct 31), Whitwood, Cutsyke, but with an variation along the roads through the 'Xscape'/Freeport site.
I'd bunged one of our digi-compacts in the saddle-pack, so had an idea for its first use.
Just opposite the Ford main dealer (Polar-Castleford) there's a compound that sometimes has a pair of UniMogs (http://www.mud-club.com/forum/index.php/topic,56982.0.html) in it.
They were there again today (as the link shows)
So, back on route, having caught up to another rider as I climbed the drag to start the run down to FerryBridge.
I hadn't seen him for a while, being a member of the same club as me.
We rode together chatting till we got to FerryBridge, he carried on towards his home at Knottingley.
I turned up onto the A1
As usual, it was off at Brotherton, past the 'Fox' pub (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/1297790756047309372gItmwf) (now a Thai restaurant!)
Upon getting to Sherburn-in-Elmet, the wind had not been quite as calm as I thought it was ;D, so a pot of tea was purchased at Squires (http://www.squires-cafe.co.uk/)
After that, a turnaround & back over Garlic Flatts Lane (as I think it's called), which ends up next to Lotherton Hall, where the A1/M1 now join up at HookMoor (Aberford)
Then a brief detour down the old 'Roman Road', & through Micklefield (which used to be on the Great North Road, until into the late 60's)
The miles were passing by, now it was onto the old A1 (the route that's now superceded by the new carriageway just to the east), all the way to Fairburn.
It's nice & quiet now, I managed to hold a constant (measured) 30MPH for a good mile ;)
Newton Lane (past the Ings themselves) was, as is usual, the windiest part of the trip
Castleford was extremely busy as the local R*gby team was playing, so it was difficult picking the way through the crowds
As I'd made good-time, even allowing for the gusts, I tacked on a side trip back down to where I'd seen the UniMogs & a cut back through 'Xscape' again
I wished I hadn't, as I saw a stretch Hummer limo (http://ollr.10.forumer.com/images/smiles/ollr/1-picture6.gif)
By the time I'd got back home I'd covered 38miles & had been out roughly 2 & 1/2hours (including the cafe-stop to look at the bikes)
Now I'm plotting tomorrows ride, I think I'm venturing in a Doncaster-ish direction, or at the least Wentbridge/Barnsdale (the real Robin Hood country!!!)
-
It was snowing this morning, or that's the alleged term for the minuscule amount of white flakes falling out of the sky.
Or to be a bit more precise, fleeing across the landscape horizontally in the wind.
So, did I get sorted and get the bike out?, risking invoking 'Sods Law' and getting down between South Elmsall and the A1 at Red House only to find myself pedalling in what could (as implausible it may be) turn into a 'white-out'??
Or was I better off staying in the house, boil the Kettle, dig out all 3 DVDs of 'The Lord Of The Rings' & losing myself in Middle-Earth??
I'd thought better not!!!!, it'll bring to mind the fact that I'm back at work on Wednesday & will be seeing all the Trolls, Orcs, & various other generally unpleasant people on Friday (& Saturday) night who can't hold their alcohol :roll: :roll:
I think this mornings ride was one of the hardest I've had for ages, given the almost constant wind.
A rear puncture at Purston (west of Pontefract on the A645) didn't help much either >:(
The so-called snow didn't look like it was going to be any kind of a threat, so I was changed & out rapidly of deciding to go.
Cutting down through Old Snydale, Featherstone, Purston, into High Ackworth.
Turning south-east, past 'The Rustic Arms' onto Barnsdale Road (the A639) at East Hardwick.
There was a temptation to side-track into Wentbridge & climb up out of the valley to the south.
But with a strong side-wind on my right shoulder ('guesstimated' at 20-25MPH, going by the way plastic bags were being moved), Barnsdale was hard going.
On reaching Barnsdale Bar (where there's the junction with the A1) & turning west towards Upton & the A638, that bl**dy wind was now in my face :x
If I thought Barnsdale was bad, this was worse, a real struggle to keep going, 12MPH was a good speed along this stretch :oops: :oops:
The A638 back towards Ackworth & Wakefield wasn't much better, as the wind was now on my left shoulder.... pushing me towards other traffic. Not much fun when almost every other vehicle is a truck, due to the industrial estates around Elmsall
Back into Ackworth, and gettign closer to home. Up to the 'Brown Cow' pub, at High Ackworth, & turn off left to Purston.
Upon passing the derelict Purston Hall, I picked up a thorn in the rear. [!Expletive Deleted!]!!
It was rather cold standing at the roadside swapping the inner-tube, nose running like a tap, rapidly cooling down as the wind swirled round me & getting tired due to the temperature & constant effort so far.
I'll admit that once I got home I felt as though I was completely 'running on empty' & could almost see 'black spots in front of my eyes'
Now that's not good!, so I know I had a hard-ride (even though it was only 26miles, but almost all of it was against the wind)
The 2 pints of Tea & hot shower were most welcome upon arrival home :dance:
Digressing, Barnsdale Bar was the point that Stage/Post-Coaches left the Great North Road with passengers/loads for Castleford & Pontefract.
It was also the route of the Roman road to the garrison at Castleford See here for map (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=450000.999999216&Y=414000.941362393&width=700&height=400&gride=450699.999999216&gridn=413699.941362393&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=grid&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=0&scale=25000&up.x=292&up.y=5)
-
I think this mornings ride was one of the hardest I've had for ages, given the almost constant wind.deciding to go.
I'll admit that once I got home I felt as though I was completely 'running on empty' & could almost see 'black spots in front of my eyes'
Now that's not good!, so I know I had a hard-ride (even though it was only 26miles, but almost all of it was against the wind)
The 2 pints of Tea & hot shower were most welcome upon arrival home :dance:
I was out along most of the same route this morning, but it was thankfully wind-free, just a gentle breeze.
The weather certainly made the difference.
I might alternate that one with my Sherburn route for a couple of weeks, before heading south-west into 'the Hills' (HolmeMoss/Saddleworth/Woodhead Pass)
Keep it up, I am reading your posts, I just have little time just lately...oh yeah, watch your post box......(though I forgot post it today :rolleyes:)..I'm busy too !!
Received by 'Registered' today Steve.
Thankyou very much.
I've never seen that before, but didn't know what to expect
-
Keep it up, I am reading your posts, I just have little time just lately...oh yeah, watch your post box......(though I forgot post it today :rolleyes:)..I'm busy too !!
Received by 'Registered' today Steve.
Thankyou very much.
I've never seen that before, but didn't know what to expect
I've had a look through it, it's a nice little magazine. Like the interviews at the end of Paris-Roubaix
Seems very reminscient of Land Rovers own 'One Life', in its own way.
For anyone else reading this who wonders what I'm on about here, read this overview from 'Wikipedia' (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris-Roubaix)
It can get rather muddy;
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/photo_galleries/1279520.stm,
http://shop.grahamwatson.com/gw/gwonline.nsf/p?openform&MPrints07L
Oh, & Steve.
Here's a little something for you to share with the shop, if they haven't seen it already (I added it to 'The Lounge' on the 'Cycling Weekly.co.uk' (http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk)forums)
-
Glad you liked it, I thought you'd appreciate it..
One fine sought after publication there ;)
Keep an eye out for our Brian Rourke Bikes in the near future Cycling Weekly :wink:
-
Glad you liked it, I thought you'd appreciate it..
One fine sought after publication there ;)
Keep an eye out for our Brian Rourke Bikes in the near future Cycling Weekly :wink:
Yes, it's a fine looking publication, there's a branch of Borders Books (http://www.bordersstores.co.uk/) in Leeds that may possibly have it on the shelves, as they get a lot of different magazines to the 'run-of-the-mill' newsagents.
I don't get 'CW' very often, but I'll browse the next few issues in that case
I think this mornings ride was one of the hardest I've had for ages, given the almost constant wind.deciding to go.
I'll admit that once I got home I felt as though I was completely 'running on empty' & could almost see 'black spots in front of my eyes'
Now that's not good!, so I know I had a hard-ride (even though it was only 26miles, but almost all of it was against the wind)
I was out along most of the same route this morning, but it was thankfully wind-free, just a gentle breeze.
The weather certainly made the difference.
I know this mornings ride was a lot easier, as I've just been out for a run
Not a long one, perhaps a bit under 2 miles (Big Wuss!!), but it was easy.
Almost too easy :D
After seeing a leaflet in the local referane Library yesterday, I'm even considering entering a 10K (6.2miles) road-race/fun-run at the end of the month :shock: :shock:
If I decide do it, I can even run it & then get to work in time (afternoon shift) as it's in Wakefield and starts at 10:00
The benificiary is Wakefield Hospice (http://www.wakefieldhospice.org/SupportUs/events/eventspages/10k.htm)
Course details (http://www.goodrunguide.co.uk/RaceDetails.asp?RaceID=143)
Should I go for it?, even if the only money they get off me is my entry fee??
I've got to run it in my Featherstone RC (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2054610340047309372qfhqlb) colours though ;)
Edit @ 23:35 I'll have to run it in club-colours to show the proper-runners that I've come from the world of 2-wheels, not 2-legs
-
Blimey!!!!!!!!
I've been out for a 5-mile run, as a 'test'.
I got back about 10:45, and have just about got my legs back.
That wasn't good & certainly not a 'fun-run' :roll:
I managed to get down the main-road & under the M62, through the edge of EuroPort, before having to stop by the railway bridge to 'readjust myself' & take the woolly hat off for a couple of minutes.
Then, I'll admit, I cut a corner off :oops: (for anyone who knows the area, I omitted Altofts & LeeBrigg)
It was hard though, after all I jumped from 21/2 miles to double that distance with no interim run
Time taken = I daredn't say :-#
But, I think from memory, that the full loop is about 6miles. I think I cut just over a mile off it.
Shameful!!! :oops:
-
Due to some good news received in the post this morning, I'm trying to convince the wife I need a Trek Madone 5.5 Pro (http://www.trekbikes.com/uk/en/bikes/2008/road/) 8-[
-
In the forums on 'Cycling Weekly' (http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/forums/ubbthreads.php) & in the magazine itself, there's a regular 'Question Of The Week'
This week carries the question; Do You Have Any Comebacks For The Hecklers of Pedallers?'
Ones mentioned include;
1. This works a treat; "Excusez mois, vous parlez Francais?"
2. "You cyclists don't pay any road tax!"
"I know, it's great isn't it?"
3. "I haven't heard that on since yesterday, and oddly enough, he was in a white van too!"
But the winner for me, which I'll have to remember is;
Don't blame me, it's your wife/girlfriend/mother who insists I keep in trim for her"
This comeback will probably work best when the heckler is accompanie by his mates, who'll help by laughing at him
-
Try this clip for the 'post - Eddy'/'pre - Lance' hard-men of cycling
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=y5wPEymv-oQ
Sorry, it's a poor quality film
Some of the riders are carried off semi-comatose at the end1
-
Blimey Steve ('GREENI') I fancy one of these, if only to try it out.
7 pound Road-Bike!!! (http://www.velonews.com/article/73034/the-7-pound-road-bike)
Wonder if it'd blow away in the wind???
-
After seeing a leaflet in the local referane Library yesterday, I'm even considering entering a 10K (6.2miles) road-race/fun-run at the end of the month :shock: :shock:
If I decide do it, I can even run it & then get to work in time (afternoon shift) as it's in Wakefield and starts at 10:00
The benificiary is Wakefield Hospice (http://www.wakefieldhospice.org/SupportUs/events/eventspages/10k.htm)
Course details (http://www.goodrunguide.co.uk/RaceDetails.asp?RaceID=143)
Should I go for it?, even if the only money they get off me is my entry fee??
I've got to run it in my Featherstone RC (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2054610340047309372qfhqlb) colours though ;)
Edit @ 23:35 I'll have to run it in club-colours to show the proper-runners that I've come from the world of 2-wheels, not 2-legs
I've decided not to do it, I've not done the training :oops: :oops:
I might still go for the 3-mile 'fun-run' though
Unless I can persuade SWMBO to go the LNER gathering on the North Yorkshire Moors Railway
http://nymr.co.uk/enthusiasts/lner-festival-2008-news
3 A4 Pacifics in steam!!!!
60007 Sir Nigel Gresley
60009 Union of South Africa
60019 Bittern
Plus; the V2 class 4771 Green Arrow
Tempting, very tempting
-
Read & Smile!!!!!!!!!!
(http://homepage.mac.com/pfellows1/thisiswhy/Images/logo.jpg) (http://www.thisiswhy.co.uk/)
Ahhhhhhhh, memories :clap:
-
I ran over to my parents house on Saturday afternoon :-o
I had to (well, I didn't - could have rode)
Joanne & Amelia had gone to Braford to see 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' at the Alhambra.
They were going straight to my parents house for tea, & Jo wanted a drink, so didn't want to drive home
My dad offered to come over for me, but I thought pride was (partially) at stake, after not doing the Wakefield Hospice 10K road-race
It wasn't bad, as I could cut 'cross-country', through the grounds of an derelict/partially ruined Country house (Newlands Hall - links to Knight Templars), along the River Calder banking to Stanley Ferry.
Along an old horse drawn coal railway line (long gone, of course)
Thought I'd end up back at work, as the banking has some very muddy bits to run through, littered with tree-roots :o
(would have been embarrassing!!)
The last part is hardest, as there's a stretch of 1 in 3 road/footpath to contend with
I reckon it's about 4 miles
It took me the grand total of 33minutes by my watch (our gate to their door!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Not bad I don't suppose??
Plus, I only stopped twice, to cross 2 'A-roads', for a grand total of about 20 seconds, so not bad (for me!!)
-
Had a ride yesteray afternoon - in the snow :roll:, & out this morning too.
On a late-shift Tuesday, so I might go for a run over the same initial route as Saturday, but turn around when I reach Stanley Ferry & come back up Birkwood Hill on the road, or visa-versa????
-
Blimey!!
That was a fast race, even allowing for the shorter time of it.
Lots of grass, a twisty sandy section (could double as a BMX track), some single-track in the scrub.
Plus a couple of trips up a banking - very slippery! (failed it every time)
It was really a 'support' event for the British Schools Cycling Association (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/) Cyclo-Cross Championships.
Phil Norfolk, one of the 'Schools' organisers had a list for a 'Summer Cross Series', so that'll be under examination, as soon as it's added to the site
The dates & locations are up on the site now, click on the picture of me in my signature block
Of course;
Any Yorkshire based riders, on here, are welcome to come & join us. Mountain Bikes are fine to use for most events
They're only banned in events like the Three Peaks Cyclo-Cross (http://www.3peakscyclocross.org.uk/) (38 miles!!, see 'Course')
After seeing a leaflet in the local referance Library yesterday, I'm even considering entering a 10K (6.2miles) road-race/fun-run at the end of the month :shock: :shock:
If I decide do it, I can even run it & then get to work in time (afternoon shift) as it's in Wakefield and starts at 10:00
The benificiary is Wakefield Hospice (http://www.wakefieldhospice.org/SupportUs/events/eventspages/10k.htm)
Course details (http://www.goodrunguide.co.uk/RaceDetails.asp?RaceID=143)
Should I go for it?, even if the only money they get off me is my entry fee??
I've got to run it in my Featherstone RC (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2054610340047309372qfhqlb) colours though ;)
Edit @ 23:35 I'll have to run it in club-colours to show the proper-runners that I've come from the world of 2-wheels, not 2-legs
I didn't do this race, due to not having 'the legs' for it & after being advised not to do it by a couple of fairly serious runners who work at the same Hospital.
I now feel that I ought to have a go at one, especially after the above posted road/track/cross-country run :-k (I might even repeat it tomorrow, as we're going over for tea)
Co-incidentally a flyer/entry-form dropped through the letter-box on Tuesday for a 5miler at Darrington (which is to the south-east of Pontefract), so I might enter that.
I'll have to try & find out where the actual route is, so I can go & ride around it.
http://www.darrington.org.uk/funrun.htm
It's still got to be run in the Club colours (http://www.featherstoneroadclub.co.uk/news.php) through
(be they the old colours (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2060033960047309372BnyDJb), or the new ones, shown above I need to buy)
-
I ran over to my parents house on Saturday afternoon :-o
It wasn't bad, as I could cut 'cross-country', through the grounds of an derelict/partially ruined Country house (Newlands Hall - links to Knight Templars), along the River Calder banking to Stanley Ferry.
Along an old horse drawn coal railway line (long gone, of course)
Thought I'd end up back at work, as the banking has some very muddy bits to run through, littered with tree-roots
I reckon it's about 4 miles
It took me the grand total of 33minutes by my watch (our gate to their door!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Not bad I don't suppose??
Plus, I only stopped twice, to cross 2 'A-roads', for a grand total of about 20 seconds, so not bad (for me!!)
I did it earlier again this evening, wife & child drove there.
I left our house at 17:00 'prompt'
I was happy with the time, despite a head-wind, & having to walk for about a 100yards in the Newlands Hall woods, as it was far too slippery to run safely
It only took a minute longer, arriving at 17:34 :D
I'm happy with that :D
-
Went to the 'local' bike-shop (http://www.kendellcycles.co.uk/index.htm) that sponsors my Club (http://www.featherstoneroadclub.co.uk/news.php) this afternoon & bought new long-sleeve training top, short-sleeve jersey & a pair of bib-tights - all in new colours (well, what's been the colours for the past 3 - 4 years or so)
I also wanted a Gilet, but forgot it (memory's going)
The bib-tights are (I guess???) in place of buying a pair of Ron Hills (http://www.ronhill.com/product-popups/tracksters/index.htm) for running.
Now I just need to get some new shoes too.................. a pair of Sidi's (http://www.sidiuk.com/mtb-cycling-shoes.html) (in 'all-black')
So, there'll be a new Club-strip for the 'Mud-Clubbers' out there to try & spot in my part of Yorkshire
Edit @ 20:44
This is the rear view of the training top (& the bum of the bib-tights)
Click on pic to enlarge
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/66/666/6/9/26/2510609260047309372WspMbi_th.jpg) (http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2510609260047309372WspMbi)
So now you know what to look for (or avoid???)
-
Three weeks today to the first 'Summer Season Cyclo-Cross' (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/) (I'm already registered for the entire series - see the 'Check Your Details')
It's at Oakbank School, Keighley.
But being pedantic. Who me??? :lol:, I'd call it Ingrow (http://www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?client=public&X=405000&Y=440000&width=700&height=400&gride=404911&gridn=439811&srec=0&coordsys=gb&db=pc&addr1=&addr2=&addr3=&pc=BD227DU&advanced=&local=&localinfosel=&kw=&inmap=&table=&ovtype=&keepicon=true&zm=1&scale=25000)
Hence, I need to step up the training a gear or 2 (both riding & running)
I think I've even got a member of 'another Land Rover forum' to come & compete with me (he'll be on his Kona MTB) at a later event (Kippax, on 2nd July)
I must be persuasive :shock:
-
I ran over to my parents house on Saturday afternoon :-o
It took me the grand total of 33minutes by my watch (our gate to their door!!!!!!!!!!!!!)
Not bad I don't suppose??
Plus, I only stopped twice, to cross 2 'A-roads', for a grand total of about 20 seconds, so not bad (for me!!)
I did it earlier again this evening, wife & child drove there.
I left our house at 17:00 'prompt'
I was happy with the time, despite a head-wind, & having to walk for about a 100yards in the Newlands Hall woods, as it was far too slippery to run safely
It only took a minute longer, arriving at 17:34 :D
I'm happy with that :D
Ran up to 'Small-Childs' school on Monday & Wednesday afternoons (meeting wife there), the first part of the route was the same (to Stanley Ferry), then along Ferry Lane & Aberford Road.
Both days runs took the scintillating time of.............. 32 minutes
Wish I hadn't worn the thermal bib-tights though (as seen in the picture a couple of posts above) & a windproof/shower-proof top.
I was feeing like a 'boil-in-the-bag' dinner when I got to the school on both days :roll: :roll:
On Monday, one of the mums said to Amelia (in front of Joanne!);
"Your dad's got a lovely bum!", & had a quick squeeze :shock:
Sadly (even though she drives a '54' FreeLander 5-door), she's not really one of the 'Yummy Mummys'
I'll have to run there again another day next week, just in case it happens again :lol:
Three weeks today to the first 'Summer Season Cyclo-Cross' (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/) (I'm already registered for the entire series - see the 'Check Your Details')
Less than two weeks to go now
Am I getting nervous???
Yes
Out on the bike this afternoon, just short of 50 miles in the rain.
Well.......... it was raining, and cold, to start with, so I went well-dressed (bib-shorts, under-shirt, bib-tights, over-shoes, long-sleeve jersey & thermal jacket)
After the first hour, it stopped raining, the Sun came out, the roads dried.
I boiled the rest of the way round :roll: :doh:
I was glad to get home & take it all off, & get in the shower.
-
Ran up to 'Small-Childs' school on Monday & Wednesday afternoons (meeting wife there), the first part of the route was the same (to Stanley Ferry), then along Ferry Lane & Aberford Road.
Both days runs took the scintillating time of.............. 32 minutes
Wish I hadn't worn the thermal bib-tights though (as seen in the picture a couple of posts above) & a windproof/shower-proof top.
I was feeing like a 'boil-in-the-bag' dinner when I got to the school on both days :roll: :roll:
Ran up again this afternoon - that was after riding over early in the afternoon to drop my entry form off for the Darrington 5-Miler (mentioned a few posts above) at 'The Darrington Hotel' - which nestles practically under the A1
Thankfully, it was a bit cooler today, so I managed to run it in...................31 minutes :D
-
Three weeks today to the first 'Summer Season Cyclo-Cross' (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/) (I'm already registered for the entire series - see the 'Check Your Details')
Less than two weeks to go now
Am I getting nervous???
Yes
Even more nervous now, as it's this Wednesday :pale:
Still, I've got the new kit now, as I was informed that the organisers are insisting on current Club colours, or plain kit, & definately no 'trade tops' (by that, I mean the sponsored teams; ie; 'Lotto','QUickStep', 'Motorola', etc.... )
These are the new colours, photo courtesy of Helen (aka 'Sleepless Paradise'), when I called in briefly at her house on Saturday during my ride
(it's a long-sleevetop, not arm-warmers)
-
Ran up to 'Small-Childs' school on Monday & Wednesday afternoons (meeting wife there), the first part of the route was the same (to Stanley Ferry), then along Ferry Lane & Aberford Road.
Both days runs took the scintillating time of.............. 32 minutes
Wish I hadn't worn the thermal bib-tights though (as seen in the picture a couple of posts above) & a windproof/shower-proof top.
I was feeing like a 'boil-in-the-bag' dinner when I got to the school on both days :roll: :roll:
I ran up today too, but wore 'more appropriate clothing'; shorts & a t-shirt (well, lycra bib-shorts, as seen in the image in the previous posting)
It was damned warm, & humid
I reckon by my watch (not counting the stopping to speak to one of our Charge-Nurses, whom I bumped into on Ferry Lane) I did it in 31 minutes
(so not bad at all!?)
First Cyclo-Cross of the season tomorrow evening :pale: :pale: :pale:
-
Well...........
I've done it.
The start was a bit of a fiasco.
Straight across the middle of a games field, with a right-hand turn, then into a 'funnel' on the banking.
Two riders collided, the leaders got away whilst the main field was waiting for 'their turn' to get through the 'funnel' :evil: :evil:
I think I managed to claw back about 8 (or 9) places on the first lap, then managed to gain 2, or 3, each lap :dance:
I reckon I was going pretty well, as it took an ex-England Cross-team rider till the last lap to pass (lap) me!! :shock:
There was a few boggy bits, where we all ended with totally encrusted socks!!
Still, it was a good race, I think I enjoyed it.
Didn't call for the Pizza I 'promised' myself though on the way home :doh:
Results will be posted, as soon as they're known!
-
Ran up to 'Small-Childs' school on Monday & Wednesday afternoons (meeting wife there), the first part of the route was the same (to Stanley Ferry), then along Ferry Lane & Aberford Road.
Both days runs took the scintillating time of.............. 32 minutes
Wish I hadn't worn the thermal bib-tights though (as seen in the picture a couple of posts above) & a windproof/shower-proof top.
I was feeing like a 'boil-in-the-bag' dinner when I got to the school on both days :roll: :roll:
I ran up today too, but wore 'more appropriate clothing'; shorts & a t-shirt (well, lycra bib-shorts, as seen in the image in the previous posting)
It was damned warm, & humid
I reckon by my watch (not counting the stopping to speak to one of our Charge-Nurses, whom I bumped into on Ferry Lane) I did it in 31 minutes
(so not bad at all!?)
Ran up there again on Tuesday & Wednesday, via same route.
Tuesday was 31 minutes. Again
Wednesday was 30 minutes :dance: :dance:
Wonder how long it'll take me to get down to 25minutes :-k
-
Ran up to 'Small-Childs' school on Monday & Wednesday afternoons (meeting wife there), the first part of the route was the same (to Stanley Ferry), then along Ferry Lane & Aberford Road.
Both days runs took the scintillating time of.............. 32 minutes
Wish I hadn't worn the thermal bib-tights though (as seen in the picture a couple of posts above) & a windproof/shower-proof top.
I was feeing like a 'boil-in-the-bag' dinner when I got to the school on both days :roll: :roll:
I ran up today too, but wore 'more appropriate clothing'; shorts & a t-shirt (well, lycra bib-shorts, as seen in the image in the previous posting)
It was damned warm, & humid
I reckon by my watch (not counting the stopping to speak to one of our Charge-Nurses, whom I bumped into on Ferry Lane) I did it in 31 minutes
(so not bad at all!?)
Ran up there again on Tuesday & Wednesday, via same route.
Tuesday was 31 minutes. Again
Wednesday was 30 minutes :dance: :dance:
Wonder how long it'll take me to get down to 25minutes :-k
On Friday, I bought some 'proper' running shorts & a couple of new 'stay-dry' tops, & decided to take them to work this morning.
Come shift-changeover, I got rapidly changed into (the scary!) running shorts .
Left the 110 parked alongside the department, & stuffed my uniform into my locker.
I walked out of the doors at 14:00, set off running, & managed to make it home for 14:28 :clap: :shock:
28 minutes!!!
I'm more than happy with that time :clap:
(having said that, it was down the 1-in-12 by the Hospital instead of up it!, & my watch turned over to :29, as I walked in the door - but going in the gate is my datum-point)
However.....
It does mean that I've got to either run, or ride, there tomorrow afternoon (for a 14:00 start)
But.....
One of the guys in the Transport Department is wanting to buy my Trek MTB, as I'm selling it due to lack of use, so I could combine a viewing for him with riding there.
It'd live on the Consultants offices corridor until home-time, then stuff it in the back of the 110
-
However.....
It does mean that I've got to either run, or ride, there tomorrow afternoon (for a 14:00 start)
But.....
One of the guys in the Transport Department is wanting to buy my Trek MTB, as I'm selling it due to lack of use, so I could combine a viewing for him with riding there.
It'd live on the Consultants offices corridor until home-time, then stuff it in the back of the 110
I rode there, Monday 19th, & just pottered through the woods.
He came, had a look/ride, but has since decided my asking price was too much for what he wanted to pay for a bike :(
So, it was transported back home in the 110 that evening.
The following day, (Tuesday 20th) I took my uniform there whilst doing the school-run (just over the road from our grounds)
Ran there, in 29minutes :clap:
Staggered into the department & collapsed on the floor........................... no I didn't, but it was tempting :grin:
SWMBO dropped me a pair of 'longs' off, & a showerproof jacket , when she did the pick-up school-run.
Come hometime I was changed & out of the door.
Same route home, through the woods. My little LED torch working to a certain extent
I opened the gate, part-boiled - shouldn't have bothered with the extra clothing!
At 22:17, I opened the gate; 33minutes
-
I've been week-off since Tuesday 20th, & have had some good rides and equally surprisingly some decent runs :shock: :shock: :shock:
I've knocked the running up by a reasonable distance/time (in my eyes anyway)
Back to work shortly though :'( :'(
My next Cyclo-Cross on Wednesday 4th June, at Huddersfield......
So, it's 'hands on deck', 'shoulder to the grindstone', etc......., as I want a better finishing position than the last one
29th/50 Finishers
9th/15 Age-Group
I still put it down to the crash on the first lap making me stop, but that's life, I can't change it.
C'est LaVie!
-
My next Cyclo-Cross on Wednesday 4th June, at Huddersfield......
It was quick, mainly on playing fields, with 60 starters in my event!
Results will probably be on-line by the weekend
It was all rideable, bar one short bank that even had a couple of ex-National squad members shouldering bikes up it
Also, it was a good excuse for picking up a Pizza (16" Asian meat Feast) on the way home :dance:
-
Sounds like it's all coming together, dude! Top stuff!
Definately counts as playing in the mud in my book! :cool:
-
My next Cyclo-Cross on Wednesday 4th June, at Huddersfield......
It was quick, mainly on playing fields, with 60 starters in my event!
Results will probably be on-line by the weekend
Also, it was a good excuse for picking up a Pizza (16" Asian meat Feast) on the way home :dance:
Quite surprisingly the results are up already :o
YCCA Round 3 results (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2008/summer_series_08/Summerseries2008R3.htm)
31st/58 finishers, and 8th/16 in age-group
Once more, I thought I'd placed a bit higher than I apparantly did
But... if you look at the link, there's a lot of riders not catagorised by age,as they didn't mark it down
Oh, & the Pizza was great!
I found out that a 16" pizza serves 1 :lol:
Sounds like it's all coming together, dude! Top stuff!
Definately counts as playing in the mud in my book! :cool:
Thanks, I'll have to try harder next time (Wednesday 18th June @ Halifax)
-
"Hurrah, Number 1. At last!!!"
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/469/3/39/34/2317339340047309372ALGWGR_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2317339340047309372ALGWGR)
-
Yayy, well done Richard :clap:
-
Yayy, well done Richard :clap:
Thanks Steve, it's all the better coming from someone who's probably done Cross before, or at the very least knows how hard it can be.
The 'ex-National squad members who were riding were Steve Barnes (ex Ace Racing Team/Peugeot) & Richard Thackray (Bradford Olympic/Pace Racing Cycles)
It took Richard till the last lap to pass me, Steve went past with 3(?) laps to go.
-
You gotta be fit then !
But you have to step it up a whole new level to catch Steve..
MORE MILES !!!!!
-
You gotta be fit then !
I wish!, I need to be fitter
I blame my running to work that morning (at 05:15). working 7 hours, then running home (half-hour each way) for the evenings lack-lustre performance :-k
But you have to step it up a whole new level to catch Steve..
Yes, I remember seeing him in his Ace Racing Team days (circa 1989), it was when Baker & Gould were still riding for Peugeot (before it went all fancy black/goemetric orange coloured kit)
He was a nice friendly guy even back then
Chris Young (ex British champion) was there too, he's a nice chap to talk to as well (I know his brother Mick better though) but not riding, just spectating
MORE MILES !!!!!
And faster ones at that :lol:
-
Hurrah!!
The 08/09 season calendar is partially up!, now I can start to swap shifts/arrange days-off & leave to enable me to plan my season
Yorkshire region Cyclo-Cross calendar (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/cyclo_cross_calendar.asp?evt_cp=1&evt_mode=0&evt_id=&evt_seriesid=&evt_myevents=&RefID=&RefType=&evt_month=All&evt_kw=&evt_regions=Yorkshire&evt_disc=Cyclo-Cross&evt_class=&evt_cat=&evt_series=&evt_resultspp=20)
-
I quite fancy also replacing my Dyna-Tech (road-bike) with something a bit newer, like a Trek Madone
I have now!!!! (http://www.mud-club.com/forum/index.php/topic,61029.0.html) :thumbup: ;)
Co-incidentally a flyer/entry-form dropped through the letter-box on Tuesday for a 5miler at Darrington (which is to the south-east of Pontefract), so I might enter that.
I'll have to try & find out where the actual route is, so I can go & ride around it.
http://www.darrington.org.uk/funrun.htm
It's still got to be run in the Club colours (http://www.featherstoneroadclub.co.uk/news.php) through
(as seen in the 'jersey' avatar in my signature, but I think I'lljust wear my bib-shorts, & get a t-shirt printed with the Club name on it)
That's next Saturday now :? 8-[
I think I'm starting to get a bit nervous, but might have one of the 'school-mums' joining me (who's also a Matron at the NHS Trust I work for, & a half/full marathon participant)
We were at her house yesterday, & Joanne mentioned it.
-
I did the 4th round of the 'Summer Series Cyclo-Cross' at Greetland (Halifax) earlier this evening.
Yes, after all that rain.
And it 'precipitated it down' for the first half of the race too.
The rain cheers everyone up no end, & they all want to race. Not!
It was a bit damp to say the least.
Very heavy going, with lots of short sharp climbs, some rideable, some not - but I managed them on later laps (cold evening, slow to warm up properly) :dance:
Once home, I clogged the shower up :oops:
(& quite possibly the washer will go the same way :oops:)
-
Co-incidentally a flyer/entry-form dropped through the letter-box on Tuesday for a 5miler at Darrington (which is to the south-east of Pontefract), so I might enter that.
I'll have to try & find out where the actual route is, so I can go & ride around it.
http://www.darrington.org.uk/funrun.htm
It's still got to be run in the Club colours (http://www.featherstoneroadclub.co.uk/news.php) through
(as seen in the 'jersey' avatar in my signature, but I think I'lljust wear my bib-shorts, & get a t-shirt printed with the Club name on it)
That's next Saturday now :? 8-[
I think I'm starting to get a bit nervous, but might have one of the 'school-mums' joining me (who's also a Matron at the NHS Trust I work for, & a half/full marathon participant)
We were at her house yesterday, & Joanne mentioned it.
I was there this afternoon. Run it. Done it, Finished it
It was damp, drizzling & fairly cool.
The 'unofficial' time was 35minutes (no results around yet) :dance:
I'm reasonably happy with that, given that the course record is apparantly 26:35, & the holder is a multiple marathon winner
Click on pic to enlarge (5 images)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/60/660/9/72/63/2007972630047309372ZtEadq_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2007972630047309372ZtEadq)
The wife asked me if I'll do another race, or (alleged!!) 'Fun-Run'
I'm not sure yet................... :-k
Oh, and before I forget.......
Whilst running to work on Thursday, I was passed by one of the other staff who is a veteran marathon runner (I think he's done about 25 - 30?)
He later told me that he thought I;
"Ran like a Gazzelle....."
"A Gazzelle with 2 broken legs"
"Oh thanks David, that's nice to know"
But later he did admit he was joking............ much later
-
I was there this afternoon. Run it. Done it, Finished it
It was damp, drizzling & fairly cool.
The 'unofficial' time was 35minutes (no results around yet) :dance:
I'm reasonably happy with that, given that the course record is apparantly 26:35, & the holder is a multiple marathon winner
At last, after a short wait, the 'fun-run' results are online.
http://www.darrington.org.uk/funrun.htm
The winning time was 28:47
I placed at 30th in 36:53
There were 136 timed finishers, so I think I did okay!
-
I rode the Cyclo-Cross at Kippax on Wednesday 2nd July
I was happy to have finished this, as I'm still sure I caught something/was really 'under the weather' after the Darrington 5-Miler (last 2 miles in heavy rain), as I don't think I was able to breath properly during the event.
I think it was a bit of a Chest-Infection, or a touch of Bronchitis?
I certainly know that I was having to breath harder than at the last event (Greetland), plus I'd not raced on the Kippax course before, so didn't quite know what to expect (until I'd ridden it a couple of times on warm-up laps)
There were some 'nasties' in it; a 40 foot long-jump sand-pit, a set of steps (sadly, wrongly spaced to ride up, & tightly taped so as to not allow riders to get up the sides) & a very sharp banking about 20foot high!! (not far after the sand-pit!!!)
I managed to ride through the sand-pit on every lap though :dance:
Later on, I did tire a bit, as I fell off twice, whilst traversing side-slopes;
Once, due to catching a pedal, the other was simply 'running out of steam' on the hill :oops:
After about 3 laps, I did get my own personal spectator though ;D
Marc ('iluvmud'), from various LR forums, including here, I think??) came to watch, & encourage me.
I had challenged him on 'Northern Bog-Hoppers' (http://www.northernboghoppers.com/) to enter & join me on the starting line.
I think he was glad that he didn't after watching us :lol: :roll:
He said he was tired just watching :lol:
The final results were;
24th/47 overall
10th/17 age-group
Click on the picture of 'me' in the signature block, for the full results & links
I also scored a good result on 2 other matters :lol:
1. One of the other riders, who used to ride for 'Featherstone', sold me a bunch of practically new Club clothing (no good to him, as he's in another Club now)
Long-Sleeve training tops
Short-sleeve racing jerseys
Gilet (sleeveless 'vest')
Bib-shorts
All at £10/item.
Each item costs between £40 & £45 , if bought via the Club. A bargain :clap:
2. Pizza on the way home, ordered as I left
Once again, I proved that a 16" 'Asian Style Meat-Feast' serves one :lol: :lol:
-
Steve
Is this a circular route??
It doesn't appear to say
http://www.cftrust.org.uk/help/events/catandfiddle
-
Steve
Is this a circular route??
It doesn't appear to say
http://www.cftrust.org.uk/help/events/catandfiddle
HI Richard, the route is a circular, starting and finishing at our shop...LAST YEAR WE RAISED 50,000 QUID !!!
I'm sure there will be much talk of it on EUROSPORT, we get loads of mentions on the TDF coverage, and we were even talked about on the Moto GP the other week !!!
Please come and join in, come say HI too, and i'll introduce you to Sean Kelly !!
-
HI Richard, the route is a circular, starting and finishing at our shop...LAST YEAR WE RAISED 50,000 QUID !!!
I'm sure there will be much talk of it on EUROSPORT, we get loads of mentions on the TDF coverage, and we were even talked about on the Moto GP the other week !!!
Please come and join in, come say HI too, and i'll introduce you to Sean Kelly !!
Thanks Steve, I'll consult my calendar & see how it works out.
It's a long time since I've ridden up, or down' the 'Cat & Fiddle'
By the way, I saw it advertised in last weeks 'comic' (http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/)
For Those Of You
Who don't know the area, this is a pictorial guide to the 'C & F'
http://www.derekmobbs.com/CatAndFiddle/index.asp
It's the A537 (http://www.multimap.com/maps/?hloc=GB|Buxton#map=53.25288,-1.99685|13|4&dp=904&loc=GB:53.25893:-1.91308:14|Buxton|Buxton,%20Glossop,%20Derbyshire,%20England,%20SK17%206) between Buxton (Derbyshire) & Macclesfield (Staffordshire)
-
Shhhhh but, Macclesfield's in Cheshire last time I looked ;) :lipsrsealed:
-
Shhhhh but, Macclesfield's in Cheshire last time I looked ;) :lipsrsealed:
So it is, my mistake :oops: :oops:
If it's outside Yorkshire, I'm not 'on top of it' :lol:
-
I ran to work yesterday, my first time on foot for almost 10 days (due to being off all last week, the weather & using bike to get there at weekend)
Going wasn't too bad, my time was an easy 32minutes*, but it was at a steadier pace than normal, in order to compensate for the time out of the running shoes
Coming home was a different matter :?
I was late away, it was 22:05 as I came out, so I had a bit less 'daylight'.
Passing through the woods was going to be problematic (it was cloudy too, so less ambient light)
I'd managed to get along the banks of the River Calder okay & down into the woods.
200 yards in, & onto the off-camber section, feet from under me.
"Wallop!", straight down :evil:
Pick myself up.
Another 100yards. Down again on a corner. Full length on my side in a mixture of mud, water & whatever else was diluted in it :-k
Oh well, it's the first time in all my passges through it that I've fallen.
Got home & got shouted at for not having the phone (in case I fell & broke my ankle, etc....), obviously the fact that I'd have dropped it in the undergrowth & lost it was not a consideration :roll:
I had intended to go on the bike today, but.............. :oops:
I slept in
It was 05;35 before I got kicked awake ::), so the 110 went there for a change
Hey-Ho!
It'll be a bike-ride tomorrow, as the shoes are still sodden, as I had to rinse them in the water-butt & scrub them (semi) clean
PLus
It's back to Greetland on Wednesday evening :D
I think SWMBO is coming too, along with 'Small-Child', so there might be a few pictures :shock: :-k
She's driving me there as well!
What!, put the cross-bike in the XKR? :doh:
Nope!, we're borrowing her dads Mondeo estate; a rather nice '08' plated (140BHP) TDCi/6-speed 'Zetec'
It'll be the bike, & kit, in the back & I can relax, as she knows most of the way there (bar the last 2 miles up in the hills above Sowerby Bridge)
It does mean, however, that I might have to share my poat-race Pizza! :doh:
-
This event has been suggested to me as a 'follow-up' for the Darrington 5-Miler (see above)
Sandal Castle 10K (http://www.wakefieldhospice.org/SupportUs/events/eventspages/sandal10k.htm)
The problem is, it's the same day as the Drighlington BC Cyclo-Cross (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2008/winter_series_08_09/2008_9Eventcalender.html) at Oakwell Hall
So.......
1. Do I run the 10K in the morning, as it starts at 10:00
2. Drive (or be driven?) to Birstall?
3. Ride the Cross in the afternoon, as the Seniors start @ 13:00??
Suggestions please!
(not rude ones!!!)
-
Cycle to the run, cycle to Birstall, do the 'cross...
It's what Steve Farrell would do, if you've heard of him.
-
Cycle to the run, cycle to Birstall, do the 'cross...
It's what Steve Farrell would do, if you've heard of him.
The road-racer from the mid 90's?
(wasn't he one of Rourkeys 'lads'?)
-
I'd managed to get along the banks of the River Calder okay & down into the woods.
200 yards in, & onto the off-camber section, feet from under me.
"Wallop!", straight down :evil:
Pick myself up.
It'll be a bike-ride tomorrow, as the shoes are still sodden, as I had to rinse them in the water-butt & scrub them (semi) clean
The shoes were dumped in the butt & were been out 'air-drying' all yesterday evening, & from 15:00 today.
Now they're on top of the hot water boiler, just chasing the last wet spots out of them.
And yes, it was a ride in this morning.
Tomorrow will probably be a run-day, as a 'warm-up' for the evenings Cross
(I finish at 13:00 tomorrow)
-
Plus
It's back to Greetland on Wednesday evening :D
I think SWMBO is coming too, along with 'Small-Child', so there might be a few pictures :shock: :-k
She's driving me there as well!
What!, put the cross-bike in the XKR? :doh:
Nope!, we're borrowing her dads Mondeo estate; a rather nice '08' plated (140BHP) TDCi/6-speed 'Zetec'
It'll be the bike, & kit, in the back & I can relax, as she knows most of the way there (bar the last 2 miles up in the hills above Sowerby Bridge)
It was a different type of journey there, with being 'chauffeured'. I could relax in the back, with a bottle of Lucozade Sport & a couple of Bananas
Quite surprisingly it was a fairly short journey - the last time I was there, it took me about 25minutes longer to get there (slower cruising speed, & more traffic)
On arrival, it was to a very chilly sports-field, as it's right on top of a hill.
Entry-fee paid & number picked up, it was time to check out the course (leaving Joanne* & Amelia** sat in the Mondeo)
It was the same as our last visit, bar an extra climb of a banking.
I made my usual mid-field start, keeping station at that position for the first 3 laps or so.
Faded slightly, losing 3 places mid-race :evil:
Then, made a bit of a 'come-back', regaining a place or two, and lapping some back-markers - always good for morale :clap:
Joanne & Amelia both had cameras, so here's a selection of what they took............
Click on pic to open album
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/60/760/2/36/48/2406236480047309372eTroRC_th.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563111535HTxprX)
It does mean, however, that I might have to share my poat-race Pizza! :doh:
I ended up buying them their own :rolleyes:
* SWMBO
** 'Small-Child'
-
The 'unofficial' time was 35minutes (no results around yet) :dance:
I'm reasonably happy with that, given that the course record is apparantly 26:35, & the holder is a multiple marathon winner
Click on pic to enlarge (5 images)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/60/660/9/72/63/2007972630047309372ZtEadq_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2007972630047309372ZtEadq)
The wife asked me if I'll do another race, or (alleged!!) 'Fun-Run'
I'm not sure yet................... :-k
This event has been suggested to me as a 'follow-up' for the Darrington 5-Miler
Sandal Castle 10K (http://www.wakefieldhospice.org/SupportUs/events/eventspages/sandal10k.htm)
The problem is, it's the same day as the Drighlington BC Cyclo-Cross (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2008/winter_series_08_09/2008_9Eventcalender.html) at Oakwell Hall
So.......
1. Do I run the 10K in the morning, as it starts at 10:00
2. Drive (or be driven?) to Birstall?
3. Ride the Cross in the afternoon, as the Seniors start @ 13:00??
Suggestions please!
(not rude ones!!!)
-
I received a phone call at tea-time.
It was Phil Thackray*, the lap-keeper (along with his wife Nora) at Greetland last night.
After the pleasantries were exchanged, he told me that he'd jumbled up my placings with another competitor, a& did I know what number rider finished in front of me?
Thankfully, between Joanne & myself (plus referring to the photos) we figured it out.
According to Phil, it appears that I (preliminarily) finished about 25th.
As far as I know, 55 started the race.
Plus, I went for a run earlier (about 20:25)
I only went about 4 miles (or just under) & came back feeling very warm (ought not to have worn that shower-proof top)
Now my back is a bit stiff & aching, on the right, just above my hip.
Must be old age?!
*No relation, but a good friend and the father of Richard & Robert; ex international Cyclo-Cross riders in the Great Britain team
(I know the boys quite well too)
-
.
It was Phil Thackray*, the lap-keeper (along with his wife Nora) at Greetland last night.
After the pleasantries were exchanged, he told me that he'd jumbled up my placings with another competitor, a& did I know what number rider finished in front of me?
Thankfully, between Joanne & myself (plus referring to the photos) we figured it out.
According to Phil, it appears that I (preliminarily) finished about 25th.
As far as I know, 55 started the race.
The results have appeared since I last checked at about 20:00
http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/
26th/54 finishers
7th/15 Age-Group
Phil was only one number out
-
I rode to work yesterday morning.
Rode back home.
Got changed,and went out on the Dyna-Tech for a couple of hours. Damned windy though on the return leg :evil:
This morning saw a return to running.
It was a bit slippery going through the woods, and I had to walk about 500yards of it, as it was just too greasy.
It took me 33 minutes
Come 14:00 & the run home was treated a different way, I ran around the road (the way I'd drive to work, or do the 'school-run')
It's probably (roughly) a mile longer to go that way, as well as a long hill (1-in-15?)
Anyway the approximate time for that was 35 minutes
So, it's either;
1. My ability to keep a constant pace, without slowing down in the woods -even when they're dry?
2. I'm getting faster, & have more stamina for a longer run?
3. The third option is always a likely candidate; I'm going home, so want to get there faster anyway :lol:
-
It's back to Greetland on Wednesday evening :D
I think SWMBO is coming too
She's driving me there as well!
It's the last event of the series next Wednesday (at New College, Salendine Nook. Huddersfield)
She's already said that she'll attend that one too (so it looks like another Mondeo trip again)
-
I went out for a run at about 09:50 on Monday morning.
I wasn't over-dressed in any sense of the word, (proper) running shorts & a t-shirt, but I probably only did about 3 & 1/2 miles.
I got back absolutely soaked, t-shirt sticking to me - worthy of wringing it out, sweat drippping off my brow,nose & chin.
Not a pleasant sight!, if I'd known it was so humid, I'd not have gone :doh:
I considered going again at about 20:30 that evening, but thought "sodit", & turned the radio on to listen to the ramblings of Radcliffe & Maconie (http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio2/shows/radcliffemaconie/)
Yesterday afternoons run wasn't much different :twisted:
I'm hoping that the overcast weather keeps the temperature down for the Cyclo-Cross this evening, but more importantly that the humidity is at a reasonable level [-o<
-
I'm hoping that the overcast weather keeps the temperature down for the Cyclo-Cross this evening, but more importantly that the humidity is at a reasonable level [-o<
Well it was an 'interesting event.
By the end of the third lap, I was still placed in the mid 20's (60 starters), but come (I think?) lap 5, I got an agonising Cramp in my left calf at the top of a short run-up.
I just fell sideways & lay there swearing at my leg :oops:
The worst part was that I lost about 7 places :evil:
Once the worst of it subsided, I had to go even harder to try & make places up.
I think I made about 4 of them back, & lapped quite a few back-markers (a couple of them twice)
Not too sure of a position (for the race, or the 'overall' in the series), as they're not on-line yet.
So here's a few photos to be going on with..
Click on pic to enlarge (12 images)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/65/765/5/48/12/2198548120047309372YSqdad_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2198548120047309372YSqdad)
-
Oh, & for the ones out there with an interest in bikes, I saw a nice one in the afternoon (& one at the Cross*)
I had dropped the wife off at Dewsbury District Hospital (ot give a friend moral support during an appointment) & went to look at Hargreaves Cycles (http://www.hargreaves-cycles.co.uk/Home.asp), ostensibly to look at their Treks,but ended up drooling over certain models of the Ridley (http://www.ridley-bikes.com/) range
Nice!!!!!!!!!, and what 'chunky' frame profiles!!!!
*Some lucky soul had a Yeti ARC-X (http://www.yeticycles.com/#/ourrides/ARC_X/TURQUOISE/) & very nice it was too :drool: :drool:
After all the years since it was first announced, I still fancy their ARC (http://www.yeticycles.com/#/ourrides/ARC/TURQUOISE/)
-
Rode to work this afternoon, between the downpours.
Walked onto the Consultants corridor where I leave the bike.... "Bu**er!, a puncture!"
Fixed it after some difficulty getting the rear wheel out (quick-release siezed, so shows how long since I had a puncture)
Changed inner-tube
Tried to put wheel back in. Broke Q/R skewer :evil: :evil:
"Damn!"
This would have meant carrying it home, as it wouldn't have pushed properly (& riding would certainly be out of the question)
Made rapid arrangements for a lift home during my dinner-break to collect the 110 (Joanne & Amelia, over at the 'Posh Porta-Cabin')
One of our Security guards gave me a lift home & dropped me off
Back in 110, bike thrown in back
Once home after shift finish, bike thrown in garage.
Had a 12" 'Asian-Style Meat-Feast' pizza for a late tea/supper :dance:
Up early in morning to either...
1. Try & get the old skewer out & put a replacement in
2. Swap the tyre, tube & rim-tape onto a spare 8-speed wheel that's hanging up in the garage.
Although I did tell Joanne about it when I phoned her whilst picking the 110 up, & she said to me that I knew that bike was 'on the way out'.
So..............does that mean, she's going to let me replace it?, or downgrade the Dyna-Tech into its position :-k
And get a new 'best bike'?
I can hope so
Not too sure of a position (for the race, or the 'overall' in the series), as they're not on-line yet
Just checked & the results are up
That bl**dy Cramp did me no good at all :x
http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/ (see Round 7)
I ended up 33rd/55 finishers & 7th/14 in age-group
I was set on a top-20 place if I'd not got that Cramp & lost ground (& went slower to prevent it happening again0
But, I can't change what happened
-
I ran to work on Wednesday morning.
On arrival I felt surprisingly good, despite the fact that it's the first time I've ran since Tuesday July 29th.
I think it was an intermediate time, as I had no watch on, but I believe it was about 32 minutes
Running home at 13:00 seemed harder though (but I'd had nothing to eat since 18:00 the previous evening, bar a couple of yoghurts), so seemed a bit down on energy :|
I think that it was still a 33 minute time though.
It just seemed harder, maybe because of the humidity?
Plus...
I found a card that I was given at the Cyclo-Cross at Huddersfield after the last race (30th July)
It's from a guy who does athletics/cycling/swimming event photograpy, and having searched the site, there's a few good ones of me :-k
(I might even let Joanne order one :D)
http://www.flamingphotography.co.uk/
I'm on;
Page 1, trying to get a decent position from the start
Page 2, banking into a corner by the f**tballers cage (http://www.flamingphotography.co.uk/photo1431809.html)
Page 4, Wondering when it'll all end, or still suffering the after-effects of Cramp? (http://www.flamingphotography.co.uk/photo1432183.html)
Page 4, Come on!, ring that bell for the last lap!" (http://www.flamingphotography.co.uk/photo1432218.html)
Out of the lot, the one on page 5 is best, there's a 'certain' look of concentration on my face
(http://www.flamingphotography.co.uk/imgs/gallerylarge/5169_20919988384893330b8d3fe.jpg)
-
Not too sure of a position (for the race, or the 'overall' in the series), as they're not on-line yet
The 'overall results' are up now
I was 26th/105 & 9th/25 (age-group) :dance:
Roll on Sunday 31st August, & the first Cyclo-Cross of the 2008/2009 season
Oakwell Hall, Birstall (just down the road from jct 27/M62)
-
This morning saw a return to running.
It was a bit slippery going through the woods, and I had to walk about 500yards of it, as it was just too greasy.
It took me 33 minutes
Come 14:00 & the run home was treated a different way, I ran around the road (the way I'd drive to work, or do the 'school-run')
It's probably (roughly) a mile longer to go that way, as well as a long hill (1-in-15?)
Anyway the approximate time for that was 35 minutes
I decided to run to work today, as it was a decent day (& it more or less guarantees me a slightly earlier finish)
It was the first time I'd run since the morning of Thursday 14th August (when I did a '33' there & '34' home)
It was hard getting there this afternoon, probably due to that fact, but I managed a 32:45*
This was a 'round the roads' run, not through the woods (about 3/4 mile longer)
I was talking to one of my collegues and she was telling me I ought to be sectioned for running here & then back home after 8 lovely hours & I stated; "Roll on the day I can get to the 30minute mark for the same route, I'm be happy when it happens"
Well, that day rolled around on the way home :dance: :dance:
I pushed myself a bit harder coming home tonight, & managed a 30:12 * (round the roads too!)
I'm happy with that :thumbup: :thumbup:
*Both timed to the second, as I bought a new Chronograph type watch for the running/riding
-
Sorry to drag an old thread 'kicking & screaming' out of the archives, but since I made the last addition, I've done a few more events & 'PBs' :-k
Part 1
1. my run home from work has now been reduced to a 'PB' of 28:54 for the 'road-route', which I'm fairly happy with :dance:
However, I'll still be trying to beat it whenever I feel good!, & my average time is probably 30:30
2. I typed 'Roll on Sunday 31st August, & the first Cyclo-Cross of the 2008/2009 season
Oakwell Hall, Birstall (just down the road from jct 27/M62)'
Well, obviously that's been & gone now.
Joanne (SWMBO) & Amelia ('small-child') were both on holiday when that took place, so I had a lively support crew of the Travers family (Helen;aka 'Sleepless Paradise', Johnty, their daughter Chrissie, & Wilson - the Springer Spaniel)
I think they were a bit surprised at the speed and toughness of the event
The final results was a 30th/62 finishers
I know that's the placing I got, but the start was terrible. It was only about 9 riders wide & we were 7 rows deep!
That's a bit unfair!, as I've previously beaten riders who got high teen/low twenties, but they were better placed than me at the start (further forward, so avoided the snarl-up on the first narrow sections)
Here are Johnty's pics from the event (22 images)
Click on pic to open
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/569/7/11/22/2783711220047309372uwaBQK_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2783711220047309372uwaBQK)
3. September 12th
Extended the run to work, by carrying on through the grounds into Wakefield
I'd ordered a book from Waterstones, so thought I'd go & collect it, as I had time.
My collegues were at the front of the department performing a 'NBCD'*
exercise
It took an extra ten minutes to get into the city-centre, due to the recent road-works & closing of pedestrian subways.
Then an extra 10 minutes back - up one of the steepest footpaths in the city
On arrival back, I had the 'offer of a lifetime'.
Two of our (lucious blonde haired) Sisters offered to take my sweaty (but well sculpted) form into the decontamination shower & wash/hose me down
I was tempted to remove my t-shirt & shoes, but 'Sods Law' states that had I done so, a manager (or a Matron) would have walked up at that moment in time, and we all would have received a 'rollicking'
Oh well.................. I'll have to find out who's doing the next exercise & run there again
Oh?, the book in question?
It was the eagerly awaited release from Inspector Gadget; 'Perverting The Course Of Justice'
A very good book indeed :clap: :clap: :clap:
*'Nuclear, Biological, Chemical Decontamination
4. Then there was a gap between my planned events, one due for Sunday 14th September was cancelled, due to a waterlogged course, so I needed something else to keep the 'competative edge' up.
I found a local 10K :shock:
This a fundraising event for the 'Prince Of Wales Hospice' (http://www.pwh.org.uk/index.php?pageid=1) in Pontefract.
I figured out the course from the (on-line) newspaper reports concerning road-closures, as the route wasn't 'officially' published in advance.
I'd suggested to people that given I've done a 5-miler in 36:53, I could now do a 10K in 40minutes :shock:
But, having mentally run the course in my mind, I revised that back to 45 minutes :angel:
2007 was the first time they'd run the race, & the winning times were
Last year was the inaurgural event, with 150 competitors) & the winning times were;
Male
1st; 35:39
2nd; 35:51
Female
1st; 39:16
2nd; 42:10
The route?
Start at Pontefract Park
Leave in (extreme) south-east corner
Up Park Lane (long-drag past College & Club-House)
Straight over cross-roads at North Featherstone
Down Castleford Lane (yellow road) just east of Ackton
At junction (by M62 bridge) turn right up B6241 into Featherstone (sharp climb just before cemetary)
Once back at North Featherstone cross-roads left (back onto) Park Lane
Finish inside Park, by racecourse :shock: :shock: :shock:
I'll admit I suffered on parts of it - mainly between the 4k & 7k marks
Still I finished it, not in as good a time as I would have liked but it was still a reasonably respectable one.
Ian, the dad of one of Amelias class-mates did it, but finished a couple of minutes ahead of me (but he is a regular on training runs with a local running club)
People were still finishing as we left.
Oh!, & I saw numbers as high as 286 when we were gathering at the start, assuming that they started issuing from 1 (saw number 6)
The point being, I wouldn't even like to guess my finishing position
There were quite a few nice female bums to follow too :clap:
My time? 45:17, which gained me a final placing of 80th/268
The winner was 33:25
Ian, who I mentioned above, finished in 59th @ 43:33
Full results (http://www.ukresults.net/2008/powhospice.html)
5. I saw this a while ago and now I'm going to have a recurring nightmare.
I'm standing expectantly on the startline of a Cyclo-Cross race, when I idly turn to look at who's next to me, & judge whether I'll get to the first corner before him.
Then I think to myself....... "I know that face. It's......... NOOOOOOOOOOOO!"
The start whistle blows & I wake up in a cold sweat
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=ZG4WEpy0dnU
-
Part 2 :oops:
6. Running the 10K was really strange though, but for the following reasons;
1. No passing traffic, as the route had an official road-closure for 2 hours.
It was weird being able to choose your own route when running down the road, & changing from side to side without looking over your shoulder
2. People standing in their gardens/drives and clapping/cheering as you ran past. Most uplifting :clap:
3. The crowd also sheering/clapping/encouraging at the finish in the park.
I'm used to having a few people standing at the finish-line of a cyclo-cross, but I know a lot of them (wifes/girlfriends/parents/children/etc..)
7. Sunday 12th October saw the return to Cyclo-Cross, with the Seacroft Wheelers organised event at Temple Newsam (Leeds)
Ian (school-run dad, who beat me in the 10K) turned up & raced, as I'd planted the seed with his wife at school a few mornings before ;)
I think he was a bit stunned by how hard it all is :-k
If he'd asked Helen & Johnty, they'd have been able to tell him, as they came to the one at Oakwell Hall (31st August)
Still, a fat tyred mountain-bike isn't the best bike for it (I know from past experience)
There were supposedly 82 starters! (according to the race referee)
I had a storming start ('blows own trumpet'), passing at least 15 riders in the first 500yards of riding.
Once the race was underway, only 1 person caught me up & passed me.
Ian finished before me.
Not because he beat me. but he was lapped by the winner just short of the line, so didn't have to do another lap
Click on me below, for the full site ('Events & Results', 2008/2009)
I finished in 23rd/75 overall, which equals 19th/47 (in age-group; Vet 40-49)
I think I'm quite happy with that :clap:
Ian, got 52nd/75 overall, & got 36th/47 (in age-group)
He did very well for a first timer :clap:
Roll on Saturday 22nd November & the 'Cyclists verses Harriers' at Bingley for the decider
The gauntlet has been dropped & picked up!
'official' race report (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081012_seacroft_cross.asp) site, plus some pictures (I'm in Gallery 1)
8. Yesterday saw me competing in a Cyclo-Cross at Salendine Nook, Huddersfield
Prior to the event I was wondering if I'd beat my 23rd/75 of last week?? (it'd be a 'pro-rata' result, of course, dependant on race-finishing numbers)
It was an extremely windswept course, with it sweeping down off Saddleworth Moor
I had a reasonable start, passing a few on the way to the first 'tight-spot' :dance:
The wind was a real problem;
1. Strong enough to cause problems when battering straight into it.
Still...... it caused everyone else the same problem, not just me.
2. Riding through the sections that had marker tapes was fraught, as taking a decent line (to maintain speed, or pass other riders) offered the risk of entangling yourself in yards of plastic.
It happened to a couple of riders.... or cracking your leg on one of the stakes holding the tape, as I did on one lap & snapping it with my shin, level to the ground "Ouch!!"
3. Not being able to hear other riders coming up from behind at points, even if they were calling "On your left/right!"
I'm not sure how many riders actually were on the start-sheet, but the end result was;
I didn't beat last weeks placing :doh: :doh:
I guess last weeks course suited me better, this was too windy, & I hadn't got the same incentive this week, "blah - blah!"
Yes!, I know!, excuses :oops:
'YPs' Round 5 (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2008/winter_series_08_09/Trycycling2008.htm)
I placed at 29th/76 overall, & 24th/50 in my age-group.
I lost one of the places by being 'pipped to the post' by feet :x
9. There's the official race report on the 'British Cycling' www (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081019_trycycling_cross.asp) now
The report agrees with me about the weather ;);
Quote;
The Veteran's and Women's race saw conditions beginning to worsen: although the threatened rain never materialised, a strong wind blew up and made many of the exposed grassland sections, already soft and damp, even more draggy and energy sapping.
Unquote
Sorry if this has been a bit boring for most of you, but members like 'Greenie' (who ride/race) will undoubtedly relate to it.
Also, any runners might relate to my 10K times
Thankyou for taking the time to read my soporific meanderings :lol:
-
Once more, my 'Gast is Flabbered'
When Joanne & Amelia got back from the 'Posh Porta-Cabin' yesterday, she asked me if I wanted to go look for a new bike :shock:
So, I took her at her word and jiggered off in the XKR to Evans over at 'Xscape' to look at some carbon fibre exotica :drool: :drool:
They had the following.......
1. 2008 model Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/s-works-tarmac-sl2-2008-road-bike-ec001368) dr0ol1 This was in the sale, with a whole £1,000 knocked off the price :shock:
2. 2008 Specialized Roubaix Expert (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/specialized/roubaix-expert-2008-road-bike-ec001384) (not quite as nice)
3. 2009 model Trek Madone 6.9 Pro (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/madone-69-pro-sr-2009-road-bike-ec016767) :drool: :drool:
4. 2008 model Trek Madone 4.5 (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/madone-45-double-2008-road-bike-ec001537)
This is the one I think I'd be sensible to try & push for. I can't be exhorbitant, or she might say no (again!)
But, given a free rein, I'd still be choosing the 2008 Madone 5.5 Pro (http://www.evanscycles.com/products/trek/madone-55-pro-2008-road-bike-ec001546)
Drove to work this afternoon, as I needed to take clean uniforms (& food) after 4 days off, then ran home at 22:00
It was a nice reasonable 30:07, which seemed fairly easy, if dertainly not too easy
-
I got a new bike today :D :D
I've spent longer buying new shorts before now :lol:
Okay, to be totally honest, it isn't actually in my physical possession yet.
It's at the shop awaiting its 'PDI' & tweaking - it is paid for though.
I was very surprised to get it, as Joanne had previously set a limit of circa £700 - £750, and this particular velocipede certainly exceeds that mark :shock:
I went into the shop (http://www.kendellcycles.co.uk/index.htm) (Gary, the owner, sponsors our Club, as well as being involved in running the Club)
I explained my choices of what I wanted to do;
1. Buy a new 'best-bike', & downgrade my present best-bike (the Dyna-Tech (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2723845740047309372kWAwUW)) to a replacement for the 'yellow bike' (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2832191890047309372KWAuSV)
2. Buy a (circa £500) replacement for the 'yellow-bike' & keep the Dyna-Tech as 'best-bike'
With this in mind, I looked at a 2008 Bianchi 1885 (http://www.bianchi.com/en/products2008/Road_Y8B43.aspx), which is part Aluminium/part carbon-fibre.
Then Joanne asked about the bike next to it...................................
Gary told her the list price....................................
She still asked him to get it off the rack...........................
I looked at her, looked at it, looked back at her (I'd looked at this model in another dealer)
A 2008 Ridley Orion (http://www.ridley-bikes.com/bikes.php?category=1&bike=26), which comes in this colour;
(http://www.biketraks.com/smsimg/8/1266-6130-full-r-8.jpg)
The frame, forks, stem, handlebars & seat-pin are all carbon-fibre, so it's rather lightweight s_clap
We talked briefly, or my 'Accountant' did :-k
The list price is £1599, we struck a deal with Gary and shook his hand at £1350.
Yes, I know (having browsed since getting home) I could get it off the internet cheaper, but I'd sooner give Gary the business.
Plus, there's the comfort of knowing he's only a few miles away if I have a problem, not the other end of the country with a warehouse full of bikes in boxes
Wait till you see my photos of the rather unusual tubing profiles :shocked:
-
Wait till you see my photos of the rather unusual tubing profiles :shocked:
Having looked around for photos, I found some on a site that I post on a fair bit, plus there's a test of it
Orion 2008 test (http://www.roadcyclinguk.com/news/article/mps/uan/2141)
Look at the 5th image, it shows an almost square Down-Tube and rectangular Chain-Stays
The 6th image shows the underside of the 'tri-lobed' Top-Tube, the top surface is almost flat (image 4 shows it to a certain degree too)
See the accompanying image for the positions of these frame 'tubes'
(http://www.intownbicycles.com/images/bicycle-terms/bicycle-frame-tube-names.jpg)
-
I have a few bikes too, what type of bike are you after
i havea rocky mountain RM7
a Pashley 24MHZ
and a GT jamie bestwick BMX
-
I have a few bikes too, what type of bike are you after
i havea rocky mountain RM7
a Pashley 24MHZ
and a GT jamie bestwick BMX
No, I bought it (as seen in the posting with the attachment of the Ridley)
Although............... I have seen cyclo-cross frames by LiteSpeed & Yeti. They're both worth drooling over
-
The frame, forks, stem, handlebars & seat-pin are all carbon-fibre, so it's rather lightweight
Sorry, that was 'crossed wires' on my part :oops:
The new bike has the afore-mentioned items supplied by Ritchey.
The Carbon-Fibre items were on the Bianchi 1885 (http://www.bianchi.com/en/products2008/Road_Y8B43.aspx) I looked at.
The Ridley is still very light though :dance:
-
Got the phone-call at about 15:55 to tell me it was ready, I was changed, drove over to Castleford & was walking in the shop before 16:15 :lol:
I haven't ridden it properly, just up & down the street to set the saddle height and set-back, & the stem height.
Dressed properly, of course, in my bib-tights & Sidi's
By golly!, it's stiff & accelerates quickly!
Although, I'm still not sure about that red saddle :-k, and might put my comfy (& well worn in) 'Flite' (http://www.ribblecycles.co.uk/productdetail.asp?productcatalogue=SELLSADD200) saddle on it off the Dyna-Tech
-
I rode round 6 of the 'Yorkshire Points' series this afternoon.
It was the 'Condor Cross' (@ Bradley Woods Scout Camp. Brighouse, near jct 25/M62)
I think the going was probably best described as 'soft', as it was godawful conditions
In fact, it was positively glutinous, most of us ended up looking like George Hincapie (United States Postal Service. Lance Armstrongs team) did at the 2002 Paris-Roubaix :lol: :lol:
(http://shop.grahamwatson.com/gw/gwonline.nsf/b00zyqiq-01.jpg)
Pinched from Graham Watson.com (http://www.grahamwatson.com/) (cyclings premier photographer)
We did a good approximation of George, but the speeds weren't high enough to get a facial of that quality, just a light spattering :lol:
Seemingly over half of the course was a quamire, & seemingly neccesitated more running than riding
It started to 'precipitate it down' again during the race, as it did for the practice/'warm-up' laps
I had a decent start, but lost some ground on 2 occasions when riders fell off in front of me [-X
I'd been following Ian, one of the Wakefield Triathlon Club riders, who I know (his daughters went to the same school as Amelia, before they moved up to another school)
It's not the same Ian who ran the 'Prince Of Wales Hospice' 10K with me, & then rode the cross at Temple Newsam (his daughter is still at school with mine, but both the Ians know each other - through the 'Tri club')
Out of the past 3 races I've done with (this) Ian, I've beat him at all 3, but he's originally a runner & this course suited him far better, so he bet me convincingly!
Anyway the results are on the 'YCCA' website (click on the pic of me below, and go to 2008/2009 results), but I finished at 31st/61 overall, & 26th/45 in my age-group.
Ian came in at 13th/61
After finishing, I just took off my grotty jersey, put a towel on the seat & drove home.
I did get the "You're not coming in this house in THAT state!!!!" upon arrival home :roll: :roll:
So, it was a bucket of hot water outside to get rid of most of it.
Kit thrown in washer, shoes (and gloves) in a bucket, me in the shower, 2 pints of tea taken on-board
Then the bike was washed. Thankfully, it was still very wet mud (& leaf-mould) so it just came off with the hosepipe
The official 'British Cycling' report will be added as soon as I see it on-line
-
The official 'British Cycling' report will be added as soon as I see it on-line
it's online now (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081109_condor_cross.asp)
There's 3 pics of me
They're not linkable, nor available to 'save picture as' though. Unless someone can tell me how :-k
See;
Gallery 4; 63rd/64 images
Gallery 5; 41st/73 & 70th/73 images
-
The official 'British Cycling' report will be added as soon as I see it on-line
it's online now (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081109_condor_cross.asp)
There's 3 pics of me
They're not linkable, nor available to 'save picture as' though. Unless someone can tell me how :-k
They did :-$
Click on pic to open (3 images)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/669/8/26/12/2535826120047309372egYZgO_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2535826120047309372egYZgO)
I was still reasonably clean at that point :grin:
-
I was browsing a photography forum I'm a member of and someone posted an image in a "Patterns" challenge... the link to the site where the product they photographed was made produced... made me think of you lot... even to my eyes these seem like "sexy" bikes!
Gota Bikes (http://www.planenco.com.br/gota/indexe.htm)
-
I was browsing a photography forum I'm a member of and someone posted an image in a "Patterns" challenge... the link to the site where the product they photographed was made produced... made me think of you lot... even to my eyes these seem like "sexy" bikes!
Gota Bikes (http://www.planenco.com.br/gota/indexe.htm)
Interesting...........there used to be a carbon-fibre MTB frame 'laid up' like that (think it was the 'Trimble'), plus it's also reminscent of Chris Boardmans 1992 (Barcelona) Olympics 4,000 inividual Pursuit bike (the Mike Burrows designed Lotus frame)
-
cool pic mate :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
-
=
cool pic mate :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
What my muddy afternoon?
Boardmans Lotus bike (http://cyclinginfo.co.uk/products/bikes/chris-boardman-bikes/)
Trimble X-Bike (http://www.mombat.org/1988_Trimble.htm)
-
Gota Bikes
Blimey :shock: I thought we were stuck in our ways with steel :lol: www.rourke.cc
-
And I thought last weeks Round 6 at Brighouse was a 'war of attrition'.
This race was grim, with a capital 'G'!
It was a 'massed start'; Wonen, Seniors, Juniors & Veterans all went together
The conditions were dire. It was mainly grass, but boggy grass-land, with a covering of fallen leaves in places that clogged almost everybodys bikes up
I ended up stopping perhaps 3 times per lap (after the first 2) to unclog the fork-crown,seat-stays & chain-stays
I'd pass riders, then stop to 'clear out', then pass them again when they were 'clearing out'
The top 3 riders (or 4?) were lucky, they had spare-bikes & were handed a de-clagged bike on each lap.
Me?, I ended up carrying, and running for about a 1/3rd of each lap
You know the conditions are bad when you have to stand up on the pedals, going downhill, to try to keep rolling :doh:
Stop pedalling & you stopped. Simple as that :evil:
My final placing was 33rd/48 overall & 16th/24 Vet40, which was atrocious
Chain Bar results (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2008/winter_series_08_09/Chainbar2008.htm)
There's a few images from the race here, plus the state of the bike afterwards...
(click on pic to open)
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/73/73/1/43/84/2545143840047309372sjUkBK_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2545143840047309372sjUkBK)
Edit @ 21:26
Here's a 'just found' 'Flickr' link (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paperthin/sets/72157609081757549/) for the event at Brighouse on Sunday 9th.
Enjoy..........
-
I rode the 'Cyclists verses Harriers' (who were mainly fell-runners, otherwise known as lunatics for the way they run downhill - truely scary to watch!!) at Bingley earlier this afternoon, there wasn't any of the white-stuff , but it was bl**dy cold!
I'm not sure of a placing yet, but Joanne reckons she counted 100+ runners at the start (plus all the cyclists), there were 97 finishers last year, so numbers are well up!
It was as hard as I remembered; cow-trodden fields, boulder strewn climbs, ice-cold winds on the back of Baildon Moor
I was happy to finish.. and I think (roughly) that I knocked about 6 minutes off last years time, if Joannes time-keeping is correct.
Results will be posted when known
Next year I might run it :-k (might be easier!!)
However..................... using the Trek was a better idea in some senses it wasn't in others :-k
Pro's;
1. Bigger clearances, as the frame/forks are meant to be able to clear a 2.2" tyre (I use 1.8" front & 1.5" rear)
2. The front suspension was used on the long rough descent from the top of Baildon Moor, then through the boulder strewn trail on Shipley Glen, & the concrete (railway) sleeper track back towards the start
3. The disc-brakes actually offered retardation in the most horrible mixtures of cow-[PooPoo] and mud, without chewing the pads to pieces
4. The low gearing made some parts rideable, that I know I'd have to run(!?!) with the Cross bike
Con's;
1. The smaller frame in comparison to the Cyclo-Cross bike made the sections that required it to be carried very awkward
2. The weight was a large factor over the Cross bike (roughly 7 - 8Ib heavier?)
3. Gearing was too widely spread on the faster, rideable, sections
I did manage a 'no brake' descent to the finish line, as I'd ridden the last mile swapping places with 2 other riders & was keen to keep my (albeit low) position. it was a bit scary though [-o< :shock:
This year, I choose not to have a wash in the Leeds & Liverpool Canal :D
As it was, once I'd unlaced my shoes & peeled my socks off, Joanne had to put my clean ones on for me (& tie my running shoes) as my hands were too cold and numb to do so myself :roll:
Once we were home & unpacked, the bike received a quick 'once-over' with the hose-pipe, after I'd showered and warmed up, but it was a bit grotty beforehand
Click on pics to enlarge/open
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/72/172/8/62/45/2385862450047309372gAOtaq_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2385862450047309372gAOtaq)
Although, some future archeologist might have had trouble identifying these 'blobs' as a pair of Diadora shoes :lol:
I must say though, the added f**tball studs (on the toes) helped immensely
(http://thumb12.webshots.net/t/69/669/5/78/5/2654578050047309372APkoNW_th.jpg) (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/2654578050047309372APkoNW)
*****'C v H' details (http://www.bingleyharriers.co.uk/html/h_v_cyclists/hvc.htm)
Plus... it's back to Bingley tomorrow morning for a (proper) Cyclo-Cross in Myrtle Park in the town centre
12:45 start
-
Plus... it's back to Bingley tomorrow morning for a (proper) Cyclo-Cross in Myrtle Park in the town centre
12:45 start
Nothing stayed spotless for long :evil:
It was another mucky race, with a section on what appears to be a 'flood-plain' for the River Aire, & lots of leaves to clog everything up :doh: :doh:
I think I was in 23rd after the first lap, but lost a few places, gained a few places (not sure how many were on the start-line though, it looked a reasonable turnout)
Fell off twice, the front wheel just washed out on the corner; same one both times :oops:
Results for 'C v H', & this one, to follow when known.
-
I've got the results for both todays Cyclo-Cross & the 'Cyclists verses Harriers'.
Sadly the 'C v H' doesn't make good reading :doh:
134th/166 finishers
38th/47 riders
Although 'we' were convincingly outnumbered, as there were 121 runners on the start-line (2 runners DNF'd)
The really weird thing is my finishing time is marked down as 54:16................................. which is exactly the same as last year!!
I think they might have made the results up for us slow-coaches :D
http://www.bingleyharriers.co.uk/html/h_v_cyclists/hvc_08.htm
But still, I finished it, and bet the 2 Calder Clarion* riders who also took part, who were;
Paul Milsom @ 54:55 (136th overall)
Richard Fenn @ 1.08:30 (163rd overall)
For todays event, Click on 'me' below, & go to '2008 -2009 Winter Events (23rd @ Myrtle Park)
I placed at 22nd/47 overall & 19th/35 in my age-group
I guess I can be happy with that, despite my double fall :)
*Calder Clarion (http://www.calder-clarion.co.uk/) is one of the local clubs, that we (Featherstone Road Club) have a 'friendly rivalry with ;)
-
For todays event, Click on 'me' below, & go to '2008 -2009 Winter Events (23rd @ Myrtle Park)
I placed at 22nd/47 overall & 19th/35 in my age-group
I guess I can be happy with that, despite my double fall :)
The Official report (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081123_bingley_yorkshire_cross.asp)
Those steps were steeper than they look!
Edit @ 20:31
Picture 1 shows the very (& extremely muddy) adverse camber on the approach to the steps
Picture 4 shows the hairpin at the base of the steps
Picture 13 shows the 'one rider at a time' clamber up through the trees in order to descend back down
Now it's nothing until Sunday 14th, when there's a race at Greetland (Halifax), if I go to it.
Failing that, I'll be in Thornes Park (Wakefield) on Sunday 21st
-
Now it's nothing until Sunday 14th, when there's a race at Greetland (Halifax), if I go to it.
Failing that, I'll be in Thornes Park (Wakefield) on Sunday 21st
I went to it (Greetland), but it was damned cold up there, I reckon it was the coldest Cross course so far
(I'd finished, loaded the bike, reached the M62, & driven home before I started to regain feeling in my fingers!)
One of the local riders I know, & chat with was (Tony Jones of Pontefract CC) was there, but had a mishap on his warm-up/'sighting' laps. I found him prior to the start sat in the boot of his car, nursing an injured leg.
He'd been climbing up the severest of the 4 run-ups (unless you were very good, then this was the only real run!), & he said he'd felt something in his leg go 'twang'.
I believe he got taken to the A&E at Halifax (Calderdale Royal) by one of the organisers/helpers
As seems to be usual now, the course was very wet on several places, & cut up badly.
Thankfully it was nowhere near as bad as Whitechapel School at Cleckheaton (16th November), where we had to pedal downhill.
Upon finishing, I know it was cold, as I couldn't feel a single bead of sweat on me (normally I end up with the jersey zip half-way down)
Results?, ahh yes............
Not that good really, I'm ashamed to say :oops:
My inability to get warm also seemed to have an effect on my heart-rate, it never felt to be elevating?
They were;
21st/36 overall, & 12th/22 in my age-group
The 'official' report & galleries are to be found here (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081214_greetland_cross.asp), & I'm in several photos in all the albums, looking very cold ;))
Thornes Park (Wakefield = 'home-turf') is rapidly approaching, & I'm hoping for a good position.
At present I'm in 11th (out of 49) in the 'Yorkshire Points Series', & with Wakefield being the last event, I want to get a top-10 final position [-o<
I'm trying to swap the next 2 Sundays too, in order to do 2 more events
Sunday 28th sees the 'Denby Dale Travellers' (http://www.denbydaletravellers.co.uk/) 'Runners verses Riders' challenge
This is 6 miles for the runners, & 9 miles for the riders (courses are separated at points)- could be interesting!?!?
A good friend has been the first rider home for the past 2 years, if I remember correctly
Sunday 4th January sees the 'New Years Revolution Cross' (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/News2008/20081212_todmorden_cross.asp) at Todmorden (site of some previous National trophy rounds)
My entry to both races are dependant on being able to swap shifts/book leave
-
Now it's nothing until Sunday 14th, when there's a race at Greetland (Halifax), if I go to it.
Failing that, I'll be in Thornes Park (Wakefield) on Sunday 21st
Thornes Park (Wakefield = 'home-turf') is rapidly approaching, & I'm hoping for a good position.
At present I'm in 11th (out of 49) in the 'Yorkshire Points Series', & with Wakefield being the last event, I want to get a top-10 final position [-o<
Although I haven't been down for a look at it, I reckon the 'going will be soft' tomorrow (in the parlance of 'gee-gee racing')
-
Now it's nothing until Sunday 14th, when there's a race at Greetland (Halifax), if I go to it.
Failing that, I'll be in Thornes Park (Wakefield) on Sunday 21st
Thornes Park (Wakefield = 'home-turf') is rapidly approaching, & I'm hoping for a good position.
At present I'm in 11th (out of 49) in the 'Yorkshire Points Series', & with Wakefield being the last event, I want to get a top-10 final position [-o<
It was the Thornes Park event this dinnertime
I rode over, & it started to bl**dy rain before I'd even got 300 yards from home :twisted:
Joanne & Amelia were driving over later (before the start)
One good thing did come of the day.
I'd arrived, then signed on & picked up my race-number, when a young lad (who was riding in the Juniors) asked; "Is it Richard?"
When I replied in the affirmative, he told me his name*.
I'd not seen him for almost 5 years (he said he was now 16), his dad was my Best Man when Joanne & me got married
So, a happy reunion was made with his dad, & another one later when Joanne & Amelia arrived
We set off @ 12:25. later than planned
Despite my knowing the course, it was a grim one.
All the recent rain had made it very slippery, but not to the point of being so wet it wasn't an issue.
Also, the recent strong winds didn't dry it out sufficiently to cure the boggy patches - riding over the multiple tree-roots wasn't too much fun either.
Still, I only fell off once, when I lost the front wheel on a sharp corner
The results make grim reading :-k
21st/36 (results are on the 'YCCA' site, reached via 'me' in my signature block), the 'end of season' results aren't up yet.
Amelia took some pictures, but they're all very blurred, so I probably won't add them**.
I kept stopping to unclog my bike in certain sections, even at my level in the race, some other riders had spare bikes to change onto (where their helper would poke most of the mud out before they reached that point of the course again)
Slightly unfair, I know, but the rules of racing allow bike-changes.
Then I rode back home, with a rapidly drying crust on my legs :doh:
Washed the bike, before getting myself sorted, & ended up washing my legs/shoes with the left-over water, & the hosepipe (which was a bit too cold)
*Joshua Senior in the Juniors/Seniors event
**There was 2, or 3 photographers around the course, so I guess the images will be on the 'British Cycling' (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/) site fairly soon
Edit @ 22:34
The 'YCCA' website also says this
WAKEFIELD TRI/Thornes Park 'Cross on BBC:
Many of you will have noticed BBC reporter Paul Ogden filming at the Thornes Park event.
Paul has promised to give us as much warning as possible about when the short item he produced will be aired.
We'll let you know here as soon as we hear from him.
Please check back regularly
-
Now it's nothing until Sunday 14th, when there's a race at Greetland (Halifax), if I go to it.
Failing that, I'll be in Thornes Park (Wakefield) on Sunday 21st
Thornes Park (Wakefield = 'home-turf') is rapidly approaching, & I'm hoping for a good position.
At present I'm in 11th (out of 49) in the 'Yorkshire Points Series', & with Wakefield being the last event, I want to get a top-10 final position [-o<
**There was 2, or 3 photographers around the course, so I guess the images will be on the 'British Cycling' (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/) site fairly soon
The 'season overalls' are up & make sad reading. Again :oops: :oops:
I dropped from 11th, to 14th (http://www.yorkshirecyclocross.org.uk/2008/winter_series_08_09/Yorkspoints2008-9.htm) from 48.
My poor placing yesterday didn't help matters
The 'race report is 'up now' (http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/EventReports2008/20081221_wakefield_cross.asp), with a link (at present) on their 'Home' page.
(I feature in galleries 2 & 5)
-
I'm going to be up in 'sunny' Bradford in a couple of weeks at an event.
No, sadly not racing this time, just watching.
The 2009 Cyclo-Cross National Championship (https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/cyx/News2008/20081208_national_cross_preview.asp)is taking place in Peel Park over the weekend of Saturday 10th/Sunday 11th January :D
it won't be as big a spectacle as when the World Championships were held in Roundhay Park (Leeds) back in 1992, when Roger Hammond won Gold & the Rainbow Jersey (http://sports.webshots.com/photo/1156664171047309372vYkCiS) for the UK, in the Junior race
Peel Park (http://www.multimap.com/maps/?zoom=16&countryCode=GB&lat=53.8077&lon=-1.7439#map=53.80595,-1.73201|15|4&dp=904&bd=useful_information&loc=GB:51.509:-0.1261:16||United%20Kingdom) (adj. to Undercliffe Cemetary)
I hope to be there on both days, but if not, I'll certainly be there on the Sunday for the Seniors event @ 14:15, & the (Senior & Veteran) Womens race @ 11:00
Oooh, lots of athletic ladies in Lycra :drool: :drool: