tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-97135332024-03-12T21:13:12.661-04:00SoloGoat BlogSolo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.comBlogger1161125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-210001519325550432012-02-20T18:58:00.004-05:002012-02-20T19:05:13.841-05:00blog has now moved.....Just wanted to update everybody...<br /><br />my blog has moved and this page will no longer be updated - you can now check me out here:<br /><br /><a href="http://ernestomarenchin.com" target="_blank"> ErnestoMarenchin.com</a> <br /><br />please update you links and check it out.<br /><br />ErnestoSolo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-86541336211313761692012-01-14T10:20:00.001-05:002012-01-14T10:20:37.611-05:00Friday<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6691900483/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6691900483_2c3bfe7042.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6691900483/">Friday Mohawk day at the Ernesto casa</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>Ahhh.... Busy, busy, busy.<br /><br />Update from the Ernesto casa is that I have been super busy with work, riding, bike and computer repair. Wish I could sleep some more.<br /><br />Up first on the plate this year will be a trip out west to warmer temps to the 24 Hours of Old Pueblo where I will be teaming up again with fellow Pivot backed rider Brian Bennet and racing duo.<br /><br />Course is off the path from town a bit where on course you will have to dodge slow moving free range cows, faster moving (and sometimes unpredictable) riders, and the non-moving cacti which hurt like hell if you have an encounter with them.<br /><br />Overall terrain is mostly single track'ish with a few spots to pass - but be careful as the single track pass areas are short in length and painful if you screw up.<br /><br />Throw in the bitches section which is a wide open jeep trail road with a 3 or 4 little rises that seem to really hurt after about 8 hours of riding them. And through in a typical headwind on that section and hence the name.<br /><br />Fast rolling section after that, another short jeep road section, more fast single track past the tree where riders like to have free and open to the public stash of hard liquor.<br /><br />Over the road, single/double track section moderate climb where you can pass a lot of riders if you got good legs.<br /><br />Then, down towards the venue. Fast twisty turns and that big rock section right before the start/finish where everybody likes to take pictures and see if you fall.<br /><br />Overall, great early season rolling course with no big sustained pain efforts, very minimal rocks and nothing sketchy -- which makes it great for this time of the year for the geared riders and would also be a great one to ride either full rigid or single speed style.<br /><br />With that coming up and with 20 degree temps, time for a long roller session to ensue. <br /><br />Ernesto out</p>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-67301287950976368292011-12-31T10:50:00.001-05:002011-12-31T10:50:05.915-05:00MIA, 2011 and 2012<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6606923929/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6606923929_6695875fcf.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6606923929/">MIA</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>OK, back from an extended leave of absence from blog posting and updates. Bike and non-bike work has kept me busy since after Turkey day and I am now somewhat getting caught up with life in general, but somehow I do wish I had another 2 weeks off after this.<br /><br />2012 will see somethings changing for me on the road side, as I switch over to the dark side that I stepped away from years ago. <br /><br />In the past, I typically used early road racing to supplement my huge mileage base that I need for endurance racing. I would train, train, train and race here and there. Road racing just gave me endurance base and the fields were not too stacked. In a typical year, I was racing 3-5 24 hour events and a handful of 100 miler'ish type of events.<br /><br />Speed up to the past few years. 100 milers (6/8/12 hours too) now dominate the endurance scene and the economy has change quite dramatically making the shorter endurance events more popular and making the fields quite stacked with competition. Instead of just rolling up the first climb, I am sprinting for dear life to hold on.<br /><br />Hence my game plan change last year which was to hit up more the Cleveland Tuesday night crit worlds in Westlake to help with my fitness and speed and it payed off. Enough to have me up my efforts on the road side with Carbon Racing and to concentrate mostly on criterium and long road races.<br /><br />On the mountain side, my schedule will mostly remain the same as it has in years and I will be concentrating on the 100 miler type of endurance events. On the 24 hour side, I will be racing Old Pueblo again as a duo and I am contemplating a few other duo and solo events as well.<br /><br />On the cross side of the world, I will be making a full out effort in 2012 as I have promised myself a full season of racing for the past few years and the 24 Hours of Moab usually threw a monkey wrench in all of it. Rough plans is to start my season off with the Nittany cross race in September if it doesn't coincide with either Shenandoah or Fools Gold. If so, see you at Cross Vegas.<br /><br />For those sponsors who helped me during the 2011 season - thanks for your support.<br /><br />And for those continuing on for 2012, thanks in advance.<br /><br />See you on the Ernesto Pain Train 2012 Tour soon.<br /><br />Ernesto out</p>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-84698038971946536402011-11-21T20:45:00.005-05:002011-11-21T20:59:08.103-05:004th at Kirtland ParkLast battle in Cleveland for the cross season would be a classic battle again with Paul, John and Steve. Course was the typical layout for the venue, with a few new twists added by incorporating a jungle gym and a different set of stairs. Classic.<br /><br />Gun goes off and I somehow manage the lead position going into the first corner. Through a few more twists and turns, I was still at the front but I wanted to get out of the front as I could see things had immediately got strung out.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6380336545/" title="2011KirtlandPark_JulieLewis_01 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6113/6380336545_1e82b4cb3c.jpg" alt="2011KirtlandPark_JulieLewis_01" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />On the straight, up the stairs and up to the sketchy section of stairs I was making the majority of time up in practice and I run into the tape trying to see who was still on my wheel. Dah. I loose three spots and I am immediately go from leading to chasing.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6380336721/" title="2011KirtlandPark_JulieLewis_02 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6097/6380336721_5110ca2a97.jpg" alt="2011KirtlandPark_JulieLewis_02" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Steve would take the lead. Paul and John would sit in front of me for a bit, and I chased.<br /><br />4 to go and I was closing after we had gapped off most of the field. Seeing me coming, John and Paul up the pace a bit.<br /><br />Going onto the sketchy steps, Paul dabs and John takes off. We are now 4 riders alone.<br /><br />The gap to Paul shortens, but going up the stairs with 2 laps to go, I make a pretty serious dab and have to dismount after nearly whipping out falling backwards.<br /><br />I would hold on for 4th for the day, about a minute separating the top 4 again.<br /><br />Would end up 6th in the series despite having only race 6 races. Bummed out I could not have raced more, but pretty happy with how things went this year and was glad to see some good hard racing go late into the year.<br /><br />For now, I'll take a bit of a break and then plan out the rest of the cross year. Will be hitting up Nationals and possibly Masters Worlds, but I also have to think about a duo 24 hour race in February.<br /><br />Ernesto outSolo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-62517138338459226382011-11-16T07:00:00.005-05:002011-11-16T07:19:06.128-05:003rd at WilloughbyPast Sunday was the next to last race of the NEO CX series - here's how it went down.<br /><br />Got there early to pre-ride = aweosome.<br /><br />Got there early to take a spill on the first warm up lap and break my brand new Sram Red front shifter = Not awesome.<br /><br />Course was a tough one, the wind was bad and the run up was going to be hellish. Other then that, a few turns and a dismount and a lot of wind.<br /><br />Gun goes off. I get punched in the gut and elbowed in the face to in the fight to win the first sprint up the climb to take the Oakley sunglass prize at the top to the first one to round the corner.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6350344076/" title="2011_willoughby_02 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6103/6350344076_5d505ec937.jpg" alt="2011_willoughby_02" height="337" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">John takes the shades at the top. (It was a clean battle all the way to the top - but there may have been some elbows in there somewhere)<br /><br />Things spread out fast as Steve and Paul put the hammer down. I get pinched a bit as I try to make my way back up to John as I battle the wind.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6350344024/" title="2011_willoughby_01 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6214/6350344024_0cf58c9ebc.jpg" alt="2011_willoughby_01" height="500" width="335" /></a><br /></div><br />I push on, and soon I am by myself about 50 feet'ish behind John when I start to see we are pulling back Steve.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6350344096/" title="2011_willoughby_03 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6100/6350344096_5ac0245792.jpg" alt="2011_willoughby_03" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /></div><br />Just as I near John and Steve, John speeds off and I catch Steve. Steve is immediately on my wheel as John continues to sit just in front of me. I figure Steve is not going to chase so I try to bridge the gap.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6350344206/" title="2011_willoughby_05 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6233/6350344206_73de7e1cb2.jpg" alt="2011_willoughby_05" height="335" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />John is holding the gap as I am battling back and fourth with Steve. I sit back a bit and let a gap get in between Steve and myself, hoping that he would try to get to John - with a plan that I would a big jump on the last climb of the day.<br /><br />I would close the gap back down with 2 to go and Steve would take himself out in the same corner I bashed my lever up on in warmup.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6349596809/" title="2011_willoughby_04 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6060/6349596809_f95a1f5c45.jpg" alt="2011_willoughby_04" height="500" width="336" /></a><br /></div><br />I would take home 3rd on the day - Paul took a hard fought win in the wind and John would take 2nd. Guessing maybe a max of 30-40 seconds separating the 3 of us at the end.<br /><br />1 more NEO race to go, bummed I am not going to be in the overall as I missed too many races. Will be the first time in a long while where I haven't done enough Cleveland cross races to get in the overall.<br /><br />Ernesto out<br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-21696209830006873042011-11-10T14:58:00.005-05:002011-11-10T15:41:05.159-05:003 days in CinciHere it is - better late then never, still trying to finish up some bike work and figure out if I want to glue up some tubulars or not.<br /><br />Day 1<br />As usual, I was running late getting over to Shawn's place. Running an hour late, we made our way south towards Cincinnati. Soon we would run into traffic several times, putting us even later the expected.<br /><br />The course was soft and muddy, lots of climbing and throw in a couple sets of barriers. One lap of warmup, some hill sprints to warm up and to the start line.<br /><br />First muddy corner, everybody going for the win right there, and a huge crash. One guys gets up to see a frame broken in half. I get around it, but loose time in the process.<br /><br />Immediately, the burn starts coming into my lungs and it is pretty obvious I did not warm up enough. Soon, the leaders would catch up to me and I would get yanked.<br /><br />Very disappointing day for both Shawn and I which was a bummer as it was mostly caused because of me running late - but I would wind up with some cash for the day, so it was not a total loss.<br /><br />Day 2<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27518066@N05/6324472116/" title="DSC_0654 by Flickr de Julie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6216/6324472116_a212f115bd.jpg" alt="DSC_0654" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Day 2 brought the Java Johnny's course, a course which I did decently on a few years back so I was looking forward to racing the mostly flat and fast course.<br /><br />Gun goes off and I have a decent start, sitting mid pack.<br /><br />Soon, we are going by the pit. Another rider in front of me suddenly slows and swings far right and looks right and starts waving and yelling "hi" to his buddy in the pits - totally looking away from the upcoming left corner.<br /><br />I continue on with the gas, pass him and go into the corner and then wham - the idiot looking the other way hits into my rear derailleur super hard as he didn't see me. Nice. He says something to me, I pedal away not noticing he bent the rear hanger.<br /><br />3 corners later, I take a corner wide and sweep in tight - just like i did every time in practice as it was the fastest and safest way to get around it. but - the same idiot that hit me before, hit me again. this time, intentionally. it sent me flying, i tried to counter steer and partially rolled the tubular. Great, 2 minutes into a race and this jack ass takes me out.<br /><br />I climb back on, try to catch on after pulling the tubular on and pedal on.<br /><br />20'ish minutes later, I am nearly catching the back of Shawn's group and my front tire washes out and the tubular completely rolls off. it also snaps the shifter clamp band.<br /><br />Game over.<br /><br />Great. So much of these races are the first 4-5 minutes and needless to say it is very frustrating to get behind an idiot. And when you finally get around them, they intentionally take you out. I don't understand that logic at all.<br /><br />But - hats off to Sram Neutral support. Free upgrade from a Sram Apex front shifter to a Sram Red so I could use the bike the next day.<br /></div></div><br />Day 3<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27518066@N05/6328918021/" title="DSC_0452 by Flickr de Julie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6019/6328918021_7c142cc80a.jpg" alt="DSC_0452" height="332" width="500" /></a></div><br />The last day of racing would be a tough one, the course was all soft and muddy and had a decent little climb in it. Lot's of power would be required.<br /><br />We get to the venue about 3 1/2 hours early. The organizer was running late on time, so he cut ALL pre-riding of the course. I was NEVER able to ride a full complete lap during warm up as the officials would start yelling and blowing there whistles. Was a total FAIL in all of the riders minds to not let us ride all of it - especially considering they were cutting us off from riding the last 1/2 mile'ish of the course when the next race had not even started - even with lap times running over 7-8 minutes. Unreal.<br /><br />Gun would go off, and I took off from the last row. Super awesome. Not.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27518066@N05/6328910707/" title="DSC_0408 by Flickr de Julie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6057/6328910707_efc5a2d93c.jpg" alt="DSC_0408" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The first few corners I get pinched, pinched again, and then I am at the back with the majority of the guys faltering on the twisty section by the road that I had cleared every time in warmup.<br /><br />I play catch up, picking off a few riders here and there. I feel like I am riding the best of the 3 days so far, but soon the leaders are catching up.<br /><br />I get yanked again, but end up with some cash for the day.<br /><br />All in all, good eye opener for me to get my attitude adjusted before nationals, but I wish things had turned out a bit better.<br /><br />Time to glue up some tubulars.<br /><br />Ernesto out<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Photo credit - Julie Lewis<br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-85245897068382937102011-10-31T20:15:00.006-04:002011-10-31T21:05:33.756-04:00Two 2's and OH states mention in CX magThis past weekend was the latest of NEO cross race series, a double weekend hosted by Brett Davis.<br /><br />Saturday:<br />This was the "mandatory" Halloween costume day - show up without a costume and you get a 30 minute penalty. Needless to say, everybody came in some sort of costume. I opted for the Green Lantern.<br /><br />Got there early and decided to take a spin around the course and check it out - like I have done every year for the past 5 years.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6300747870/" title="julieL_1029_01 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6111/6300747870_d5855207c2.jpg" alt="julieL_1029_01" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Alas, according the official who apparently knows a lot of rules, I was not allowed to pre-ride when a race was going on. Must of been friends with the guy at the Cincy 3 day cross weekend a few years back that I saw going around checking pit bikes for bar end plugs because he was getting ready to not allow the bike in the pit if he found one missing.<br /><br />So I continued to warm on the parts that he couldn't see - I mean the road - and I prepared for a muddy and slick'ish cross race.<br /><br />Gun went off and we all went a blazing through a short lap loop.<br /><br />At the garage door stream crossing, Phatty and Steve went down.<br /><br />I slowed and made it, others did not.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdbrekke/6292970657/" title="DSC_0105.jpg by Gregg Brekke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6215/6292970657_62a7ac0e62.jpg" alt="DSC_0105.jpg" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Gaps went out immediately. I got around Phatty and joined up with John P.<br /><br />I was able to ride the barriers which was good as I didn't want to deal with possible mud issues with remounting.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdbrekke/6292976013/" title="DSC_0227.jpg by Gregg Brekke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6031/6292976013_aecfde5df8.jpg" alt="DSC_0227.jpg" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /></div><br />I soon parted ways with John and then tried to get back time on Steve. Things were slick and muddy, but I had some pretty awesome lines and I started to grab back seconds from him.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdbrekke/6293496606/" title="DSC_0144.jpg by Gregg Brekke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6293496606_1de135b67c.jpg" alt="DSC_0144.jpg" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />With the laps closing, I was running out of time. With about a lap and a half to go, I bobbled and lost about 10 seconds. I lost the chase to catch Steve, but rode in steady for the next 10 minutes to hold on for second.<br /><br />Sunday:<br />The course was the same only reversed this day and the sun had come out somewhat and had dried things up a bit. Brett added a bridge to save us from the mud and with things tacky it was going make some corners slippy but most of them grippy.<br /><br />With a smaller field the gun went off and I somehow got the hole shot for once in my life. Immediately I was off with John and Ross.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27518066@N05/6298280105/" title="DSC_0818 by Flickr de Julie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6105/6298280105_002e59f9df.jpg" alt="DSC_0818" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />I pulled for most of the first lap, John got around me and pulled on the second and Ross was hanging in with us riding a 29er.<br /><br />Pace was hot as we went back and fourth with strong pulls, then Ross slowed a bit and dropped from our group of two.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27518066@N05/6298381175/" title="DSC_0949 by Flickr de Julie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6042/6298381175_d823d02319.jpg" alt="DSC_0949" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />John and I would go back and fourth, pulling and sprinting as hard as we could out of the corners and on the straights trying to drop each other. John ended whacking his head off a tree in the pine section (which I think was the same one I hit really hard last year) and got cut a bit, but it was merely a flesh wound and we continued on.<br /><br />Gaps were holding, but Dan creeped up on us a bit, then we upped the pace a bit as we tried to drop each other some more. I was saving a move for the last lap as the person going into the single track on the last lap would be hard to pass at the finish.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdbrekke/6297376966/" title="DSC_0957.jpg by Gregg Brekke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6227/6297376966_668dbff957.jpg" alt="DSC_0957.jpg" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />John lead in the field heading into the triple barrier that we had been jumping the whole day. Right before it, I got in front of him and ran over the barriers and remounted - and nailed it. I had a gap, but then ended up loosing it in the left hand turn by the garage. John got around me.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/gdbrekke/6297388824/" title="DSC_1097.jpg by Gregg Brekke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6117/6297388824_76a8e8b62e.jpg" alt="DSC_1097.jpg" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Through the twisty stuff, I got right back on him. Over the garage door bridge he slowed a bit thinking that the line was closer - we sprinted and he got the win by about a wheel'ish length or so. Good hard racing, congrats to John as I took home 2nd for the 2nd day.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27518066@N05/6298446667/" title="DSC_1023 by Flickr de Julie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6230/6298446667_35b1956b4a.jpg" alt="DSC_1023" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Ohio State cross coverage:<br />And, in case you missed it - the Ohio State cross race got some coverage in CX magazine which has a nice article and some great pics.<br /><br />You can check it out <a href="http://www.cxmagazine.com/photo-gallery-ohio-state-cyclocross-championships" target="new">HERE</a><br /><br />Ernesto out<br /><br /><br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-295178397908177332011-10-25T07:43:00.008-04:002011-10-25T15:44:35.927-04:00Ohio State Cyclocross ChampionshipsThis past weekend was the Ohio State Cross championships, and here's how things went down.<br /><br />Saturday - Single Speed:<br /><br />I signed up for both the Single Speed and Masters age group, but things were going to be tight between the races as the Masters race was right after the Single Speed race. It sounded good in theory thinking about it earlier in the week.<br /><br />Field was about 20'ish or so riders, some of whom I know, most of the others I did not.<br /><br />Course was flat and twisty and the rains from the previous days had left the course soft and muddy in some spots. Things were drying out a bit from the little bit of sun peeking out from the clouds, but not much.<br /><br />Gun went off and I started spinning out the 39x18 I had on my old Indy Fab single speed cross bike. Soon, I found myself with Nate Z and another rider off the front of the race with one lap down.<br /><br />On the second lap, I put the pressure on and got a little bit of a gap but I was pushing the heart rate limits hard so I eased it back a bit to see what was going on with the rest of the field.<br /><br />Nate and the other rider come back and I let them take some pulls for the next few laps. The other rider is strong, but keeps taking consistent foot dabs and bad lines so I bide my time.<br /><br />Two laps later on the back straight with no wind protection and a head wind, I let the rider take a nice long pull. Right before the 3 soft corners before the 3 tight corners before the straight, I jump around him and nail all the corners as fast as I could go. I got out of the last corner and onto the finish straight with a good 7-10 second gap.<br /><br />I pushed on.<br /><br />Now clear of my mini lead pack, I start riding my good lines that I was hiding in the first few laps and I slowly start building a gap.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279807618/" title="Unknown_2011OHCXCrossChamps_01 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6117/6279807618_8da81e3236.jpg" alt="Unknown_2011OHCXCrossChamps_01" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I was feeling good and the gap grew. I stayed steady with the effort and took home the Single Speed Title for 2011.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6280832026/" title="Unknown_2011OHCXCrossChamps_02 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6223/6280832026_9d619b1343.jpg" alt="Unknown_2011OHCXCrossChamps_02" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Afterwards, thinking about the effort, my trashed and dirty bike and coughing from my asthma, I decided to bag the Masters race to save all efforts for the Elite race on Sunday. In hind site, it was a great decision.<br /><br />Sunday - Elite Men:<br /><br />Can to the start line on the first row, with a field of about 30'ish riders. Most notable riders were John Proppy, Steve T, Paul M and Shawn A. Not doing much of the OVCX series, I did not know the majority of the others, but the Cleveland contingent was mucho strongo and a serious amount of pain was about to go down.<br /><br />Gun went, all guns were a blazing and I think I either got chopped off, cut off, or bumped by at least a half dozen or so of my closest friends going for the first corner. <br /><br />Through the first corners, and over the barriers, I moved into the top 4-6 riders with the pace still a little hot.<br /><br />Over the small barrier, into the sand, onto the straight. Paul comes flying by and comes straight to the front to show his presence. The pace goes up even faster.<br /><br />Second lap and we are stringing things out. Gaps start to grow, and I try to concentrate on my lines, the barriers and in staying on the front. That back straight will hurt big time if I didn't stay with the front group.<br /><br />3 laps in things have dwindled down and I am in all out pace group containing myself, Paul and Bike Authority teammates Steve and John.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279806146/" title="KurtisFraley_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (4) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6239/6279806146_93f2436146.jpg" alt="KurtisFraley_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (4)" height="500" width="333" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I immediately thinking that John and Steve are going to try to one-two us as for a few laps, one would up the pace and the other would sit back a bit and let a small go. The gaps would close as I don't think any of us wanted to miss out on the win.<br /><br />Bad luck would happen for John first as he slipped out and then immediately dropped his chain. The pace was hot and immediately we got a gap.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279285483/" title="KurtisFraley_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (8) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6215/6279285483_43ef61a184.jpg" alt="KurtisFraley_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (8)" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Now a group of 3, we all had digs at each other.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279285935/" title="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (18) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6103/6279285935_c2a20185b7.jpg" alt="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (18)" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Paul and Steve both took good strong pulls on the straights as I hung tight to their wheels on the tight sections.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279807312/" title="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (17) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6102/6279807312_4b5cf1e93a.jpg" alt="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (17)" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Paul took a small spill at one point, and then came right back to us - even with Steve taking some pretty clean lines and good pulls.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279286405/" title="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (3) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6232/6279286405_929fba0a35.jpg" alt="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (3)" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />The course was technical, lots of good hard turns for me and Steve to show our stuff, and with a long straight for Paul to show his hella power. It seemed like we were even and it was going to come down to the last few corners as the straight was to short for a real sprint.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279286819/" title="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (2) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6110/6279286819_94a50d3543.jpg" alt="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (2)" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">So, we started watching each other after attacking each other for the past 55 or so minutes. Going through the start/finish, I knew it would come down to the long back straight and I had to stay close to them.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279806938/" title="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (10) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6222/6279806938_0dfe050b7d.jpg" alt="JulieLewis_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (10)" height="332" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Over the barrier, into the sand and Paul and Steve lite it up and got a gap on me immediately, but I closed in on them right before the first soft left hand corner after the straight.<br /><br />Paul narrowly got ahead of Steve, but Steve didn't give up and going into the tight corners before the straight, Steve tried to take to inside line.<br /><br />I was directly behind them, but I thought for a second they would both crash each other out. Paul held his line and disaster struck for Steve as he rolled his front tubular off and fell down.<br /><br />I got by, still going pretty hot myself. I closed the gap to Paul as he fought to stay upright. Going out of the last corner he jumped hard and had a good 10-15 gap on me coming onto the straight.<br /><br />Paul would take the win, I would finish second and Steve would run in and place 3rd.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279806312/" title="KurtisFraley_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (1) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6092/6279806312_c2d03e0668.jpg" alt="KurtisFraley_2011OHCXCrossChamps_ (1)" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Great day of racing and rubbing elbows, happy with my finish and overall weekend and pretty stoked to see 3 Cleveland area riders take all 3 top spots at the State Championships.<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6279806436/" title="LisaMartin_2011OHCXCrossChamps_01 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6228/6279806436_8cca9ba9db.jpg" alt="LisaMartin_2011OHCXCrossChamps_01" height="373" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />Ernesto Out<br /><br />photo credits:<br />Julie Lewis, Lisa Martin, Blair Fraley, Kurtis Fraley<br /><br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-31341506792732021722011-10-20T06:07:00.002-04:002011-10-20T06:15:18.365-04:0010.20.11 update<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6262830961/" title="10.20.11.update by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6262830961_cd2eefe3b5.jpg" alt="10.20.11.update" height="375" width="500" /></a></div><br /><br />After two weeks out west, I am finally getting somewhat settled, but not really.<br /><br />Bikes and gear to sort out from the trip, work has piled up and projects are coming due, and sponsorship proposals to get out. I think I need another vacation.<br /><br />But, the end of the madness is coming closer to an end and I am getting pumped up for this weekend's Ohio State Cross Championships. It will be a good battle, and it may end up being a battle of Cleveland Cross racers for the state title in the 1/2/3 class.<br /><br />Sponsorship proposals going out the door, hope to have most of my stuff done by this weekend. Good to see some of them confirm already for 2012 as I have already laid out some of my races for the upcoming year already and I want to thank them for their support.<br /><br />With that, better run - busy day today getting the bikes tuned up and ready for the trip down south for the weekend.<br /><br />Hmmm.... What gear to run Saturday?<br /><br />Ernesto outSolo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-11274526817159462152011-10-13T00:14:00.006-04:002011-10-13T09:15:04.299-04:002nd at the 24 Hours of Moab<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240164395/" title="DSC_7264 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6109/6240164395_0b86442365.jpg" alt="DSC_7264" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Field was about 30 or so deep, the weather the week before was rained filled and patted down the typically dusty conditions. After not sleeping much the night before the race and waking up to misty rain conditions, I made my way out to the venue.<br /><br />As race time neared, the conditions bettered. The clouds cleared the dust gun and the field lined up on the start line for the Le Mans style running start. ¼ mile round trip around the sage brush and to your bike, down the road aways and onto the course.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240164773/" title="DSC_7311 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6240/6240164773_96b133036f.jpg" alt="DSC_7311" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Gun goes off, everybody starts running and I have my typical horrible run but quickly make up some ground once on my bike.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240164601/" title="DSC_7289 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6019/6240164601_9bbd6cf391.jpg" alt="DSC_7289" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I am in the top 15-20 riders going into the first section of single track. Not many riders are near me and I pick off a few here and there along the miles and a few catch me. I log in my first lap and am somewhat surprised to find out I am sitting in 3rd after having what I thought was a decent lap.<br /><br />I make a quick stop for refueling and made my way out for my second lap.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Chasing and chasing, I was staying steady but not gaining much. As I came through on my 2nd lap I overheard the announcer saying that the two solo leaders were together. It was going to be tough to pull back one rider, let alone two working as one.<br /><br />I chase and chase, and finally I catch one of the riders as he bobbled on one of the rock sections on the 4th or 5th lap. He’s looking a little fatigued from the pace and I push on but the lead rider still eludes me. He would eventually finish 3rd on the day.<br /><br />Temperature was cooler all during the raced hitting maybe in the mid 60’s during the day, but the night was setting in and temperature would start dropping. Little did I know it would go as low as it did.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240164943/" title="DSC_7329 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6179/6240164943_c78f76b9d0.jpg" alt="DSC_7329" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Lights came on and the gap to the lead rider was going in the wrong direction as he was putting time into me on each lap. The remaining pack of riders were in our wake and by about 8pm’ish or so, we had lapped most of the field – only 4 rider remained on the same lap as us.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240681264/" title="DSC_7365 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6218/6240681264_436be77086.jpg" alt="DSC_7365" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The laps ticked off, we made battery changes and put on extra clothing, but at about 2am and 30 degrees I was freezing my arse, hands and feet off. Duct tape on my shoes, neoprene on my hands, thicker hat on my head and a windstopper vest went on.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240681424/" title="DSC_7402 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6093/6240681424_be76a157bc.jpg" alt="DSC_7402" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">On the next lap, I find out the lead rider stopped. I later find out his light burned out and he was going hypothermic and stopped.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240165183/" title="DSC_7406 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6225/6240165183_2a3a01f622.jpg" alt="DSC_7406" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I continue on, now in the lead.<br /><br />I push on, riding at the same effort but my back is hurting me and my wrists are in bad shape all from some earlier falls as I stuff some heater packs into my back pocket for warmth and to loosen up my tightening back muscles.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240681662/" title="DSC_7418 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6117/6240681662_528a789e12.jpg" alt="DSC_7418" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Two laps later, the rider I was chasing previously now catches me and regains the lead from me. After warming up and getting some new batteries, he rides past me at a fast pace that I cannot match.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240681822/" title="DSC_7456 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6105/6240681822_8ec428fa5a.jpg" alt="DSC_7456" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Only a lap two later and the lights came off – which feels like a huge lift off my back. By this time I had lapped the entire field except the lead rider and had locked up 2nd.<br /><br />I pushed on in chase of 1st, but the gap was staying steady. I was starting to count down the laps.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240165633/" title="DSC_7470 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6116/6240165633_1d77902710.jpg" alt="DSC_7470" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">As the laps rolled on and the finish time neared, the gap to first was nearing 11am and the gap back to 3rd was nearing the lap and ½ mark. As I came in at near 11am after 23 hours, I called it a day and would finish out 2nd on the day.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6240682134/" title="DSC_7486 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6047/6240682134_bd50de4008.jpg" alt="DSC_7486" height="334" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Not the result I had hoped, but my nutrition was dead on and the asthma meds were awesome as I had no breathing issues at all for the first time in 4 years at Moab.<br /><br />Huge thanks goes out to my support crew for getting me through the event and for my 2011 sponsors – could not have done it without you!<br /><br />Ernesto out<br /></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-49354781183937680892011-10-07T22:44:00.004-04:002011-10-07T22:55:45.427-04:0014 hours to 24<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6221495861/" title="DSC_6745 by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6163/6221495861_9f3f2a3f27.jpg" alt="DSC_6745" height="500" width="334" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Last post before the start of the 24 Hours of Moab.<br /><br />Rain has been hitting town all week, pushing down the dust and the temperature. Last night saw some frost on the cars in the AM, so I am sure it's going to be a little chilly at night and my pit crew will have their double burners propane heater going on high.<br /><br />Sand is not so bad this year, areas have been brushed away by the course helpers but the rain has padded the sand down a ton. And, unbelievably, the sport trucks that roam most of the course we ride on has helped packed it down even more.<br /><br />A lot of teams and riders have rolled in today, solo men field is up to about 30'ish riders. Men's sport and expert classes are getting some decent sized fields, along with the just for fun class.<br /><br />That's it, time to rest up. I'll try to get a post up on Sunday.<br /><br />Ernesto out<br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-90367651499132234982011-10-06T12:31:00.002-04:002011-10-06T17:50:51.512-04:00Moab update<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6217821030/" title="2011_Moab24 (181) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6101/6217821030_f0ede76f79.jpg" alt="2011_Moab24 (181)" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br />Thursday here in Moab, and the weather has been a little on the cold side with some doses of rain. Tuesday saw me split town early from Fruita as the temps got cold and the rain rolled in, so I opted to stay dry and head 2 hours to Moab.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6217299927/" title="2011_Moab24 (175) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6240/6217299927_f5c178f1ea.jpg" alt="2011_Moab24 (175)" height="500" width="375" /></a></div><br /><br />First day in Moab saw me hitting up the roads as the skies were overcast and it looked like it was going to rain. Opting not to clean the bike for an hour, I went out and got blown around on the road.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6218087441/" title="2011_Moab24 (189) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img style="width: 463px; height: 347px;" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6108/6218087441_a9a6822cb6.jpg" alt="2011_Moab24 (189)" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />Hit up a couple of laps on the Moab course yesterday and as was expected, the course is pretty much the same layout as all the years past. It's pretty packed down from the recent rains, but the sand and wind is still there in sections to rob you of speed and mess with your head. Think of it as riding in powder snow in the winter with all the wind but no totally freezing weather. Put it like that, it seems like heaven compared to a cold February Ohio ride.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6218612616/" title="2011_Moab24 (196) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6173/6218612616_f7c091d4b5.jpg" alt="2011_Moab24 (196)" height="500" width="375" /></a></div><br /><br />Does not seem to be as many riders rolling in this year, not sure if 24 Hour Nationals had an effect on the turnout - but the solo men field is nearing around 30'ish riders, so we are looking at a decent sized field. A possibility of no Moab 24 hour race next year will add a little bonus dynamic to the event.<br /><br />AM rain and high temps of only 60 degrees for Saturday will play well for me to keep down the dust which seems to inflame my asthma. Let's hope the wind dies down a bit so it does not blow me or my pit tent off course.<br /><br />That's it for now - one last post tomorrow before the race, and hopefully an update on Sunday assuming I can feel my fingers.<br /><br />Ernesto outSolo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-41354711743340467842011-10-02T22:29:00.002-04:002011-10-02T22:36:04.953-04:00I am seeing a therapistAnd her name is Fruita Colorado.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6206196312/" title="2011_Moab24 (55) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6155/6206196312_b5a0f3b2fc.jpg" alt="2011_Moab24 (55)" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Sorry for the minimal blog postings, but work has been nutty as of late and the Pivots needed some TLC before I headed west again to Moab - but not before stopping at one of my favorite little towns in Colorado, Fruita.<br /><br />Next up on the schedule for me is 24 Hours of Moab, my last endurance race of the year. After Moab I will "taper down" and race a full cross season. Ohio State championships is two weeks after I get back, so that should be interesting.<br /><br />Today saw my first day of riding here in Fruita, and I am happy to say that the trails still kick arse and that there has been some trail work here and there on some sketchy sections.<br /><br />More on that later - time to grab some food and hit the sack.<br /><br />Ernesto out.<br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-32763688965330839512011-09-21T13:49:00.002-04:002011-09-21T14:07:04.839-04:002 race updateFirst race update: Whiskey Island, this past Sunday<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6169532289/" title="2011_whiskey_island by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6173/6169532289_a5464c2de0.jpg" alt="2011_whiskey_island" height="333" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">First cross race of the year, and it was a tough one at that. Hella winds on the cement backside, a small sand pit, twist and turns and a few logs. It was going to hurt.<br /><br />Gun went off, bumping of elbows quickly ensued and a few twist of fates and bad lines from other riders got me up towards the top 6'ish within the first few corners. <br /><br />Soon we would have things stringed out with a high pace that had most of the field behind and chasing. Paul, myself, Matt and Steve were all in the lead group.<br /><br />The pace was high, then somewhat slowed down which brought a vicious attack from Paul and he quickly got a gap with about 4'ish laps to go. I tried to chase, but was quickly countered. Hmm....<br /><br />Matt attacked, I chased for a bit, then sat back. Steve immediately jumped and got across, but it was on the cement section and the wind was at my back. I caught back on quickly.<br /><br />Back and fourth, then finally Steve attacked and I decided not to chase. Game over unless I could out tactic Matt at the end.<br /><br />Matt would gap me, but I caught back up to him in the sandpits near the finish. Coming over the logs, I pinched through the barriers and the course markings and got around him. I would take 3rd but get relegated to 4th as I was "out of bounds" for going over the tape in the last corner. Hmmm...<br /><br />Second race update: Westlake worlds, yesterday<br />Last race of the Tuesday nighters for me as I got a work thing going on next week so I thought I would go out with a little bit of a bang and try to get as many points as I could.<br /><br />Every lap was sprint lap, snagged a couple right of the bat, Dave came by me on one other, then I went into stealth mode and snaked out 3 more sprints going from a long way out. <br /><br />Wasn't the easiest thing to do and it left me a little sapped for the last sprint. Had decent position, but Bob lit up the lead out sprint from waaaaaaaaaaaay out having us making up ground with the line coming up fast - too fast in fact. Shawn would be 5th, I would be 6th.<br /><br />So, looks like I will wrap up the season in 7th at Westlake Worlds for the year. Had a great time hitting up more races this year compared to last, and I hope to make it out to the majority of them next year.<br /><br />And - congrats to Dave as it looks like he has wrapped up the overall win for the year.<br /><br />Ernesto out<br /></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-69029968366704995942011-09-18T18:50:00.003-04:002011-09-18T19:16:10.745-04:00IB2011 - TRP<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6152488073/" title="Interbike2011 (138) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6090/6152488073_707d7cd740.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (138)" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />TRP introduces an update from their RRL Alloy called the RRL SR. The same basic features of their older lever (push button quick release is very nice) but saving a whooping 5 grams compared to the standard levels, but definitely has a "wow" factor look to it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6153033160/" title="Interbike2011 (134) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6164/6153033160_e90daca5c0.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (134)" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And the talk of show for cross season is the introduction of now allowing disc brake use on cyclocross bikes. So, one has to figure out a way to run standard road levers running standard cables and have them operate hydraulic lines.<br /><br />Hence, the TRP Parabox which is run below your stem. Have to admit, from photo's I saw before the show, it looked a lot bulkier then what it really is. Weight is around 450 grams for the setup seen above which includes the hose's and the brakes. Caliper up front is slightly bigger then the rear caliper and the pistons inside the converter are also different sizes as well. Setup is intended to give some modulation to the braking instead of locking it up when you panic and grab the levers.<br /><br />All in all, weight doesn't seem that bad just for this setup, but I not sold on this yet as to run the who setup requires rotors and a bigger hub in the back... And don't forget a spare wheelset too. 135 wheelsets with a road style rim are not that common, especially if you want to run something higher end. Guess if weight is not a concern, this is a good setup - but I won't be running it any time soon.<br /><br />Ernesto out.<br /></div></div></div></div>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-87944523385335191352011-09-17T20:32:00.005-04:002011-09-17T21:06:44.674-04:00IB2011 - Pivot and BH<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.pivotcycles.com//up/default/429blue.jpg"><br /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6152489757/" title="Interbike2011 (116) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6201/6152489757_89e2ca4627.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (116)" height="375" width="500" /></a><br /></div><br />First ride of my 2011 Interbike adventure was the BH RX1 cross bike. Sporting a full carbon frame and a BB30 bottom bracket, the bike was quick, fast and very responsive. The bike felt solid and the geometry was dead on.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6152488933/" title="Interbike2011 (125) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6190/6152488933_7d52694395.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (125)" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /></div><br />The bike was sporting the older glossy Ultegra 10 speed shifting group, with a 36/46 front ring and a 11x25 in the back with a FSA Gossamer crank. Personal preferences would have me switch the rear cassette to an 11x28 for a wider range when in the big 46 ring (the rear derailleur is long caged and can handle it) and maybe a slightly lower weight crank. Otherwise, I have a fondness of the glossy Ultegra as it is lightweight and I feel it shifts just as well as Dura Ace at a much lower price.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6152488837/" title="Interbike2011 (126) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6076/6152488837_cdaa587e41.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (126)" height="500" width="375" /></a><br /></div><br />And don't forget the full carbon tapered fork up front, which helps to stiffen up the front end and to eliminate fork chatter under high speed braking. Tapered forks are just an absolute must on any high end cross frame anymore, and it's nice to see it on this bike.<br /><br />Great riding bike, nice overall setup. Pull it out of the box, slap on some pedals and get ready for an hour of pain (or fun?) at your next cross race.<br /><br />Next up - the new designed 429 from Pivot.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.pivotcycles.com//up/default/429blue.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 398px; height: 265px;" src="http://www.pivotcycles.com//up/default/429blue.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />This new design saves about a half pound from last years model. (ya!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6147059715/" title="Interbike2011 (15) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img style="width: 315px; height: 420px;" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6147059715_85cedb3cf0.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (15)" /></a><br /></div><br />And is also sporting a half inch tapered fork. (Stiffens up the front end - awesome!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6147060229/" title="Interbike2011 (8) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img style="width: 296px; height: 394px;" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6196/6147060229_ab6bf40ec4.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (8)" /></a><br /></div><br />And, a 12mm through axle. (Stiffens up the bike side to side, especially when standing.)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6147607408/" title="Interbike2011 (12) by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img style="width: 307px; height: 409px;" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6083/6147607408_c4b9b062fe.jpg" alt="Interbike2011 (12)" /></a><br /></div><br />And finally, the new Fox Adaptive Logic RP23 Kashima shock with custom tuned rebound and Propedal settings. This new configuration allows quick access to the full maximum Propedal setting while still being able to select the other settings based on the course or riding conditions.<br /><br />Very excited to see these updates on the 429 and the changes are awesome updates to an already great frame. These changes will make my 2012 race bikes even better handling and more responsive then the previous model and will put my race bike weight at under 23 pounds.<br /><br />ErnestoSolo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-35727422855181784532011-09-17T12:34:00.004-04:002011-09-17T12:38:28.598-04:00Interbike brief<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6150429808/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6191/6150429808_4f16f39061.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /></div><span style=" margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.8em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6150429808/">Interbike2011 (38)</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>OK, finally have caught up some sleep after crashing out for 11 hours after a redeye flight on Thursday night. Thanks to the little chick who decided that her huge boyfriend should sit in the middle seat on the flight back home so that all 3 of us would be completely uncomfortable. Awesome. Not.<br /><br />Went into the show with some mixed feelings but went out feeling great about the upcoming year and having the chance to meet up with old friends and contacts and to meet with new ones.<br /><br />It's ying and yang, white and black, all is equal. Things just have an odd way of working out.<br /><br />So, heading out for a ride and will be hitting up some Interbike posts when I am back. For now, check out my flickr Interbike set and check back at the blog for some updates.<br /><br />Ernesto out.</p><br /><br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/sets/72157627669777390/with/6150429808/" target="new">Interbike Flickr Set HERE!</a>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-3538231660208365592011-09-15T11:36:00.001-04:002011-09-15T11:36:10.930-04:00Interbike day 3<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6147058763/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6074/6147058763_f334c415fb.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6147058763/">Interbike2011 (0)</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>OK, a few days late in the Interbike posting. Here's what has been going down so far...<br /><br />Day 1 saw a beutiful day of riding at Bootleg Canyon which is just miles away from the Hoover Dam. Trails were sandy and fast as usual, with a lot of rocks and flat tires to go with it.<br /><br />Had rides on the new Mamasita and Horsetheif from Salsa and a short ride on the BH cross bike. Pretty low key day of hanging out with the Pivot gang and walking around.<br /><br />Day 2 saw us back at Bootleg Canyon. Heading out for the early 8am ride heading out to Lake Mead, the shower storms were looming in the distance. I snaked the early start as the ride started on the bike path which also doubled for water drainage and was littered with small rocks and wierd corners. Did not want to deal with that in a pack of riders.<br /><br />Right before the turn to head towards the lake, I stopped to put on my Gore rain cape and it was just then that I saw the main group coming full on, race mode. Hmm..<br /><br />A mile or so of people rubbing elbows with me on the wet bike path, we were on the road. Full blown attacks. Stupid.<br /><br />So I backed off of the pace at the turn around point, but only after I had made the "lead group" and dropped almost all of the pack in the pouring rain. <br /><br />And, oh ya, I was on the BH cross bike running a 46/36 front rings.<br /><br />End of day saw me on the new Pivot 429. Rad - write up coming later.<br /><br />Day 3 saw the first day of the indoor show, and a few new twists as they opened up more floor space on a lower level. Bike vendors were eagerly waiting, willing you to their booth. Ya, it's odd seeig a product that you immediately look at and know that it will never make it in the industry and having somebody trying to sell you opn it.<br /><br />Affirmed some of my sponsors from this year, hopefully got some new ones for 2012.<br /><br />With that, better run. Interbike day 4 and a late flight to catch.<br /><br />Ernesto out.</p>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-72890992530838904472011-09-10T22:06:00.001-04:002011-09-10T22:06:20.002-04:0010:15 on a saturday night<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6134960434/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6194/6134960434_1a22bd2d63.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6134960434/">10:15 on a saturday night</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>And it's on the verge of yet another Interbike and the start of the cross season for me, even when the endurance season is not done.<br /><br />Should be an interesting show, lots of new product out there.<br /><br />Pivot has the new Mach 5 Carbon and the new designed 429 which shaves about a 1/2 pound off from the previous version.<br /><br />Moots has a new 29er full suspension out.<br /><br />Foundry is new to the market with 4 new carbon frames which includes one road frame and is teaming up with Whiskey which is offering up some very nice carbon forks, stems, bars and other great carbon stuff. The flat matte carbon looks extra kewl.<br /><br />Redline has their new lineup of cross bikes out, this time carbon, bb30, tapered full carbon forks, internal cable routing for all cables, ability to run full cable housing for the rear brake and a special built bb housing with a hole for water drainage. Did I miss anything? Oh ya. You can run disc brakes.<br /><br />New cross disc brake stuff is out out too, though I am not a big fan. Still too heavy in my books. And, since disc brakes are on cross bikes and all disc hubs run 135mm rear spacing, the cool new thing is to run 135mm rear spacing on the "new" cross bikes.<br /><br />Hmmm. When did Ernesto start running 135 as his preferred rear wheel spacing? About 7 years ago. Jeez, the industry is finally catching up with me.<br /><br />That's it, gotta roll. Going to be an odd Interbike, I just have a feeling. Here's to catching up with good friends who share a common interest - an obsession with a common interest of riding.<br /><br />Keep the rubber side down friends - see you in Vegas. (And keep the brews cold!)<br /><br />Ernesto out</p>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-32456118660117395082011-09-08T23:16:00.025-04:002011-09-09T07:40:53.973-04:00Gore Bike Wear Product Review - Part 3 of 3<span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Bike Wear Oxygen SO Arm Warmer</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVssYnGVK_8/TmmGy1Gxu7I/AAAAAAAABEc/F9KfQ03g2KE/s1600/gore%2B%252811%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVssYnGVK_8/TmmGy1Gxu7I/AAAAAAAABEc/F9KfQ03g2KE/s320/gore%2B%252811%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650195415320083378" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Designed with Windstopper soft shell fabric, these arm warmers are a thicker material designed to keep you warm and dry. Same gripper elastic is used on these arm warmers that is used on many of the Gore Bike Wear products, which is great as they are very grippy and help keep to keep the arm warmer stay in place - which will make them my arm warmer of choice this cross season.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Dp3lf5XVoU/TmmGzUM8f1I/AAAAAAAABEk/j2iQtnOBevc/s1600/gore%2B%252851%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2Dp3lf5XVoU/TmmGzUM8f1I/AAAAAAAABEk/j2iQtnOBevc/s320/gore%2B%252851%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650195423667453778" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Would typically run these when the temperature starts running below 55 degrees or so. Otherwise, I would run with the thinner designed Gore Ozon arm warmer. <br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Bike Wear Ozon Leg Warmer</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQaNymkby3Y/TmmGzymU_QI/AAAAAAAABEs/A9pkguO57u0/s1600/gore%2B%252816%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PQaNymkby3Y/TmmGzymU_QI/AAAAAAAABEs/A9pkguO57u0/s320/gore%2B%252816%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650195431826980098" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Fleece lined, but not overly bulky to stop one from packing it on a potentially cool late fall evening ride, the Ozon leg warmer is a nice option to add your cycling accessories.<br /><br />Sporting flatlock seems to prevent skin irritation and pressure points, reflective materials near the ankle zippers and an anatomical fit, they are a great option for cool weather riding. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J16WudCqxKA/TmmG0ddujLI/AAAAAAAABE0/5BZsxyX6pew/s1600/gore%2B%252866%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J16WudCqxKA/TmmG0ddujLI/AAAAAAAABE0/5BZsxyX6pew/s320/gore%2B%252866%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650195443333631154" border="0" /></a><br /><br />(PRO TIP: I actually prefer to run this type of leg warmer with a fleece lined bib during the winter as I feel that I get a more customized clothing fit as I have found it hard to find a proper fitting winter full length bib tight. As an added bonus, I like that my knees effectively have a double protection from the elements.)Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-63704165111068111872011-09-08T23:16:00.023-04:002011-09-09T07:38:40.777-04:00Gore Bike Wear Product Review - Part 2 of 3Next up in my Gore Bike Wear product review is....<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Bike Wear Xenon AS Jacket </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UQsq6PP9fks/TmmMlLk9JuI/AAAAAAAABFM/zBdL8LvvaOM/s1600/gore%2B%252821%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UQsq6PP9fks/TmmMlLk9JuI/AAAAAAAABFM/zBdL8LvvaOM/s320/gore%2B%252821%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650201777903838946" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Designed specifically for your posture, the Xenon is a tight race style jacket that is not designed for those who love to pack a ton of stuff in their back pockets. This jacket will keep you dry and is cut tight to prevent the extra fabric from acting like a wind sail and slowing you down.<br /><br />It has 1 small back pocket, is designed with Windstopper material to keep you dry, has no hood and has an extra long back to prevent your backside from the elements.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RGwxB7k_R44/TmmMlQkeyvI/AAAAAAAABFU/AIo8aG-FbFw/s1600/gore%2B%252859%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RGwxB7k_R44/TmmMlQkeyvI/AAAAAAAABFU/AIo8aG-FbFw/s320/gore%2B%252859%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650201779244026610" border="0" /></a><br /><br />One other nice touch is the velcro cuffs - which is a nice touch to keep the rain out and also to help regulate your body heat as well.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Bike Wear Oxygen AS Jacket</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlzFtyvqsjY/TmmMkhF00pI/AAAAAAAABFE/pRyTWQPg_MQ/s1600/gore%2B%252863%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlzFtyvqsjY/TmmMkhF00pI/AAAAAAAABFE/pRyTWQPg_MQ/s320/gore%2B%252863%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650201766498980498" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The Oxygen has got to be one of my all time favorite wind and waterproof cycling jackets. No hood or pockets, slim cut fit and made of Gore-Tex Paclite material, the jacket is designed to keep you warm and dry when space is tight.<br /><br />Jacket has a tight fit, with no excess material to slow you down and has an anatomical fit to prevent bunching in critical areas. It is designed to keep you dry when it's wet and to breathe to prevent sweating when it's not.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6KyoMUuQ71Q/TmmMkM9iF0I/AAAAAAAABE8/qJ-QRag-N38/s1600/gore%2B%252838%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6KyoMUuQ71Q/TmmMkM9iF0I/AAAAAAAABE8/qJ-QRag-N38/s320/gore%2B%252838%2529.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650201761095489346" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Oh, and did I mention that they even sealed up the zippers to prevent the elements from getting to you? Which is more then I can say for my "weather proof" backpack. Just a few weeks ago, I was caught in a severe rain and thunderstorm, so out came the Oxygen from my trusty backpack that also held my digital camera. A complete torrential downpour later, my upper body was still dry - but my camera was fried.<br /><br />Enough said. I heart my Gore Bike Wear Oxygen jacket.Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-58937765763861524312011-09-08T22:39:00.010-04:002011-09-09T07:36:19.648-04:00Gore Bike Wear Product Review - Part 1 of 3This is the first of 3 Gore Bike Wear specific reviews - stay tuned for 2 more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Bike Wear Power Glove</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MoORGdmQq58/Tmn5iAum3yI/AAAAAAAABFc/8FneKR6lVTM/s1600/gore%2Bglove%2Bcombo.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MoORGdmQq58/Tmn5iAum3yI/AAAAAAAABFc/8FneKR6lVTM/s320/gore%2Bglove%2Bcombo.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650321570219351842" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Say hello to the Power Glove that is designed with foam and gel pad to provide cushion where you need it the most, along with a mesh top for ventilation and a terry insert on the thumb to whip off the sweat before you cross the finish line.<br /><br />I like them a lot as they fit snug and are really help me grip well on the hoods/grips when they get wet. Also, the Power Glove has a great cut to them that does not dig into my boney wrists - very simple thing to overlook but one that makes a huge difference between getting through the extra miles on the bike or dealing with the abrasions on your wrists due to the constant rubbing from your gloves.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Bike Wear Ozon Arm Warmer</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dGEeYybCLzE/Tml9YOIZS9I/AAAAAAAABEU/nBpNwKIHLV0/s1600/GoreArmWarmer.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dGEeYybCLzE/Tml9YOIZS9I/AAAAAAAABEU/nBpNwKIHLV0/s320/GoreArmWarmer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650185062576638930" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Next up is the Ozon Arm Warmer designed with flatlock seams and elastic cuffs. I have been testing them all summer long in temperatures ranging from 55 (to protect from the chill) to 90 degrees (to protect from the sun) with absolutely no issues at all.<br /><br />Awesome fit, cut and length are perfect, they never fall down and can be worn in a wide range of weather conditions. Great overall arm warmer.<br /><br />Tech info: Gore-Tex Material, elastic gripper cuff.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Gore Countdown Socks</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HCTiB8w207M/Tml9Xo9NUbI/AAAAAAAABEM/w0SdA9m7Wpw/s1600/100_3198.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 181px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HCTiB8w207M/Tml9Xo9NUbI/AAAAAAAABEM/w0SdA9m7Wpw/s320/100_3198.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650185052597604786" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Nice, thin and tight sock with great support and ventilation. High length helps with ankle protection and protective layer for toes provides impact protection and helps reduce wear and tear - can't tell you how many "nice" pairs of riding socks I have that have holes in the toes. Not an issue with these socks.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k-SS-4a7YFc/Tml9XLnD8YI/AAAAAAAABEE/PY_r3lDOomE/s1600/100_3197.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 181px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k-SS-4a7YFc/Tml9XLnD8YI/AAAAAAAABEE/PY_r3lDOomE/s320/100_3197.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5650185044720087426" border="0" /></a><br />Socks are left and right foot specific - and are marked as such (see photo above).<br /><br />So far, so good with these socks as they have seen their share of 100 mile and endurance events this year. Holding up great and the ventilation helps to reduce hot spots I seem to get during long events.Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-15040135561750191962011-09-05T19:15:00.004-04:002011-09-05T19:42:27.179-04:00Shenandoah 100 write up<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6118342920/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6199/6118342920_8cce53692a.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /></div><span style=" margin-top: 0px;font-size:0.8em;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6118342920/">shenandoah_100_results</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>6:30am Sunday start was the last NUE of 2011 season, and a decisive one for me as I had to place 9th or better and be ahead of Robert Marion at the finish to move me up to 5th overall in the NUE series.</p><p>Also at stake was the first place overall for Jeff Schalk and Christian Tanguy so the pace was going to be hot off the start.</p><p>And so it was.</p><p>On the first climbs, things starting breaking up pretty good and I settled into my pace. I seemed to be having some pretty heavy legs at the start and I was creeping further and further back, but with the humidity in the air and 95 miles to go it was going to be a long race.</p><p>So I pedal on and my legs start coming back to me and I am picking off riders here and there. When I was catching them, I wasted no time and rode right by not asking for any help in the effort.</p><p>I would catch Robert about 25'ish miles in or so and we would ride together for a bit, but shortly after aid station 2, I would ride away from him and another rider.<br /></p><p>Soon after, I would get caught by singlespeed winner Gerry Pflug and we would ride together for a bit up to the short hike a bike.</p><p>I would then set off to venture on my own for awhile and also took a pretty good over the bars spill but somehow managed to not get busted up.</p><p>I would soon catch back up to Garth and a few others and then got my way back up to Zack. We took turns pulling, but he slowly inched his way away from me around the 5th feed station.</p><p>Right before the 6th feed, I see Mike Simonson on the side of the trail right after a sketchy downhill bleeding all over, mostly from his chin. The medic was with him already and told me to go on, but medics were rushing up the hill. Bradon's dad was heading up the trail too and for some reason seeing somebody I knew in the middle of nowhere kind of threw me mentally off and I was not watching the trail and hit a rock full on at full speed, making a small cut in the tire.</p><p>Off immediately, I put in a tube and continued on - guesstimating a 3-4 minute loss of time.</p><p>Climbing, climbing, climbing and nearing the end, I decided to look back. All I could see was a black jersey and I didn't know if he had caught site of me (I later found out it was Gerry and Garth) so I took off with about 7 miles to go.</p><p>With this effort brought cramps, but it also brought into sight another rider in front of me.</p><p>Nearing the top, I catch him, but I softpedal so he doesn't hear my freewheel - and 15 feet from catching him, I jump on the pedals.</p><p>Two small rises after, the downhill starts into the camping area. I carry a lot of speed and try to focus on not wrecking stupidly. I would wind end up 10th on the day - 1 spot short of taking 5th overall in the series.</p><p>Still happy with how the series turned out for me - I had a lot of fun racing "shorter" endurance events this year and I am already looking forward to next years NUE series.</p><p>solgoat out<br /></p>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-69805150019859693432011-09-02T15:30:00.001-04:002011-09-02T15:30:59.248-04:0009.02 update<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6107079450/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6204/6107079450_3fef4de7d8.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6107079450/">100_3058</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/">solo_goat</a>.</span></div><p>so, i have been slacking a bit on the posts as of late, but here goes.<br /><br />past few weeks at westlake worlds have been tough ones to say the least. two weeks back, it was the first race in 2 or 3 weeks and the speed has definitely jumped up a bit.<br /><br />things came back together at the end, my head was in the sprint, but my legs weren't. the only thing i think i was successful at was blocking bob from a good sprinting line. my legs were just feeling a bit heavy and didn't turn over.<br /><br />this week, looked like we were about to catch paul, bob and shawn at the end. i sat back and watched them go, thought about making the jump but then thought of the shennandoah 100 this weekend and thought the better of it. i made a little dig at the end, but nobody came with me so i was a sitting duck just 40-50 behind the 3 man group. sprint would just miss catching them...<br /><br />so i have been catching up on odds and ends, planning next years sponsorship, planning interbike and a new blog site... it's been a busy few weeks.<br /><br />now - i am heading out to shenandoah, the last of NUE 100 milers this weekend. i am currently sitting in 6th overall. things go well, i stand a chance of 5th which would be super hella cool. if not, 6th place in the series is pretty awesome considering the depth of the field in these 100 milers.<br /><br />better run - stuff to pack.<br /><br />sologoat out</p>Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9713533.post-46148581283035774542011-08-21T20:57:00.011-04:002011-08-23T22:39:26.637-04:004th at the Fools Gold 100Next up on the NUE series was the Fools Gold 100 in Georgia.
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<br />Heading down, we had chances of showers here and there - and during pre-ride, we got hit with some heavy sprinkles and thoughts of pyrite and mud mixing in with my brake pads and eating them slowly away like they did at last years event flashed before me.
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<br />Shortly before heading to sleep and a 4AM wake up to eat, I watched a cyclist's most "favorite" of past times when not riding - watching the weather channel and obsessing about the next days venture. Somehow, right before 10pm, a storm that was headed right for us died out and just missed us. Went to bed hoping the same would happen thing would happen again for the mid-day showers that were supposed to hit race day.
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<br />Race day comes, a small but stacked field was in place for the 100 mile event. It was surely going to be painful and the temperature was going to be hot.
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<br />Race starts off with a neutral start for a bit, then Eddie pulls off and the pace is slowly lifted up. 6 miles to the big climb and all the fast dudes are all there in place...
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<br />Up the first climb and immediately the pace is hot and the lead group starts pulling away. I stick with them a bit, but with temps already hitting 80 degrees, the pace blistering and with 94 more miles to go, common sense takes over and I settle in to a nice hard tempo that I can hold.
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<br />Up and over the hella long climb, into the single track. I am with a few others for a bit, then I am off on my own in no mans land for a long while, and then I start reeling riders back in.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/deanthornton/6065523448/" title="DSC00786 by Ga_Kush, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6207/6065523448_2dbc42b698.jpg" alt="DSC00786" height="375" width="500" /></a>
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<br />Up the climb the second time, I reel more riders in but I am not feeling too swell. I switch to just drinking water and backing off on my pace a bit until I start feeling better. Heart rate is good, legs feel awesome - better yet, no asthma issues due to my new meds. Ah, it is so nice to breathe....
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<br />Into the last stop on aid 2/3 on my last lap, I get inspired by learning I am sitting in 3rd spot. My stomach is starting to feel a lot better, I am getting nutrition in and I feel great - the temperature is cooling off a bit too, so I up the pace and hope that the darkening skies do not unleash any rain.
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<br />Miles are ticking off, pace is going up and I am passing up a lot of 50 mile riders. With about 12 miles to go, all rain hell breaks loose and things start to get sloppy.
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<br />I am making a mess of the mud riding, can't see to good and I felt like I was riding too slow - just about then I slid out pretty hard. Hoping that the single track would end around the next corner, I press on.
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<br />About 2 miles from the end of the single track, the 4th place rider catches me and flies on by. He's riding the single track well when I am not.
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<br />I am soon out of the woods, onto the road back to the finish. I use the last of my water in my bottles to clean off my drive train and pedal on. I look back about 30 times in the last 6 miles to make sure nobody is sneaking up on me.
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<br />Would finish up the day 4th with one more 100 miler to go in the NUE series, the Shenandoah.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/solo_goat/6073824541/" title="2011_FoolsGold_Podium by solo_goat, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6187/6073824541_7991d1f54d.jpg" alt="2011_FoolsGold_Podium" height="375" width="500" /></a>
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<br />Sologoat out
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<br /><span style="font-style:italic;">(PHOTO CREDITS: Dean Thorton, Ryan O'Dell and OutdoorEventPhotos.com)</span>
<br />Solo Goathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15124242997168685515noreply@blogger.com0