I put this brass bell by Public on over the weekend. Imagine that, a full-suspension carbon race bike with a heavy bell like that, but let me tell you, it’s worth every gram. I bet it weights close to a 1/4 pound, but that’s beside the point. After riding across the Golden Gate Bridge a few times I’ve learned that yelling at people isn’t the best thing to do, it’s stressful for both sides and bad karma, not to mention all the hikers and trail users I come across in the Headlands, especially on the weekends. At least it’s painted black to match.
Just downloaded a few photos from the Sea Otter Classic a few weeks ago. Zazoosh was on-site taking pictures of everyone. I look pretty descent here despite shaking off a nasty crash just minutes before this was taken.
Spent my Sunday recovering from my monster ride on Saturday hanging out and watching the World Cup in Nove Mesto. It was a thrilling race between Nino Schurter, Jaroslav Kulhavy and Burry Stander all the way to the finish. The course looked like a lot of fun, and the live coverage from Red Bull TV was well done. Looking forward to watching this weekends battle in France.
On Saturday I ventured out into the Headlands in search of the Coastal View descent. I ended up riding down Dias Ridge instead, which was some of the best single-track I’ve ridden out here so far, but it also dropped me at the bottom of the trail I wanted to go down. Doh! (more…)
Good morning everyone! Check out the amazing view from my ride this morning. Clear skies, no fog or wind. A perfect spring morning. I’ve been tired all week, but I amazed myself in the effort I put in on my climb to the top of Miwok, besting my previous time, and everyone else’s. It was no easy feat. I rarely use my lowest gear, which is really low, but the climb is just so long and steep. The reward goes without saying.
I worked pretty late last night, and rode home in the dark. I thought I’d be fine through the Presidio, and I was, but it was DARK. Being in the middle of the woods, knowing there’s a wild coyote on the loose didn’t put my mind at ease. However, concentrating on keeping my speed and cadence up as I floated to the top helped in that respect. The rest of my commute was pleasant. Without cars or noise it somewhat felt safer to be out on the road.
I love to ride in the dark. I used to go mountain biking at night with a full Night Cat light setup. I’ve even done a 24 hour race, where most of the fun was in the wee hours of the night. Your sense of speed diminishes as objects fly faster towards you, making you hyper aware of handling.
I’ve been working in the Presidio for the past few weeks or so. I’ve been driving to and from the area, but this morning was my first morning commute by bike. It was also the first ride on my Independent Fabrication since the move. We live in Inner Sunset, so I get to cut through Golden Gate Park and through the beautiful Presidio. My only regret is that I wish my commute was longer. It took me 12 minutes to get to work.
Finally, my first ride from the new apartment. I hit the road at 6am, and was welcomed to a blanket of fog. I made my way through Golden Gate Park, taking a few wrong turns before finding my way back on route. The fog was so intense. I couldn’t see the ocean.
I headed for the Marin Headlands, like I always do, but by the time I hit the trail my glasses were so fogged up I had to ride most of the descent virtually blind. Not safe. I turned back knowing I lost time in the park, but on my way back I caught the tail end of a massive early morning ride by MC AM Riders. 30 cyclist or so came flying out of the fog. I rode with them back over the bridge before heading home. I’m always amazed at how many serious cyclists there are in this city.
Day off from the bike. Unpacking is in full effect. Our apartment is a complete mess, boxes everywhere. Unearthed my bike tools and stand, along with the remainder of my cycling kit. Nice to have a new rotation of clothing, too. Slowly but surely I’ll get my life back in order.
Fully recovered from my cold. I spent a glorious Sunday in the Marin Headlands. The weather has been perfect. Is it always like this in San Francisco? (more…)
