there has been a request for some off-the-bike socializating (no helmets, sunglasses or tight fitting clothing) among the 2WFs, and one suggestion, being that July is almost here, is to get together to watch the Tour de France. My friend Debbie of The Bicycle Store wrote this
hey John -
I am soooo excited for you all. I went over to La Isla; They DO NOT have
OLN network. Boo-hoo-hoo. I then called DAvanzo's - THEY DO!!!! The
Manager's name is Lynn (724-342-3467). I told her you would call. She
seemed willing to put OLN on screen. Just wanted to know some days/times/#
of people. I said you would know this better than I. I called them,
instead of Inn 62, because I can't even eat at Inn 62 it is SO SMOKie. If
this place isn't acceptable, let me know. And maybe we can call elsewhere.
DEB
So, I am calling upon our co-social chairs, PB and Jason (hello Diurba, you out there?) to make the call. DaVanzos does have a big screen TV as well as cold beers. Plus, they seem willing. Comment below Yea or Nay. I'm leaving this one up to the group.
jm
Friday, June 30, 2006
"two wheeled goats"
that is the new name of the A+ group "two wheeled goats"... these goats are relentless climbing maniacs. it has been quite sometime since i have had the pleasure of a rising pace on a hill difficult enough to climb alone. so another verbal congratulations goes out to all our riders last night, who showed, on an excellent job climbing that monstrosity. i hope that in the future i can find some hills that can maybe last a little longer for everyone. but really, great job on all your climbing efforts "goats."
remember that this saturday is the first stop at the Bicycle shop for the tour. I am going to try and get there in the am either with mtn bike ready to rock or road bike ready to roll. Hopefully we can get a bunch of people together for the support of the store.
ride hard, ride fast, ride far, and ride smart!
remember that this saturday is the first stop at the Bicycle shop for the tour. I am going to try and get there in the am either with mtn bike ready to rock or road bike ready to roll. Hopefully we can get a bunch of people together for the support of the store.
ride hard, ride fast, ride far, and ride smart!
Thursday, June 29, 2006
"let me specify"
just for all you who read the blog for the schedule of events. i just want to make clear that i said i would be there tonight regardles, "rain", or "shine." well i just wanted to clarify what that means to me. Rain- - -a dripping pour or sprinkle, versus the terrential downpour accompanied by lightning and thunder. Shine- - -well you all know that one.
reason being...i was once trying to beat a storm from new castle. i saw the deathly blackness in the sky and thought with around 15-20 miles to go, that i could beat it. Well approaching the 318 area on bethel new wilmington road, it got me. the winds were so bad, i felt like i should have had a V8 (ya know like them on that commercial), and was being blasted with sticks dirt and leaves. i passed a tree and the wind blew it over directly behind me. it hit the power lines and caused a wavelength in the cables, that all of a sudden seemed to be chasing me. i was so scared by this time that i blew through the intersection at 318 in front of two cars and straight into the garage of people whom were watching the storm.
in any case i just get pretty timid when the storms are intense. i dont mind the rain too too much it is just the nasty stuff. See you all later with hoods on...!
harmsway
reason being...i was once trying to beat a storm from new castle. i saw the deathly blackness in the sky and thought with around 15-20 miles to go, that i could beat it. Well approaching the 318 area on bethel new wilmington road, it got me. the winds were so bad, i felt like i should have had a V8 (ya know like them on that commercial), and was being blasted with sticks dirt and leaves. i passed a tree and the wind blew it over directly behind me. it hit the power lines and caused a wavelength in the cables, that all of a sudden seemed to be chasing me. i was so scared by this time that i blew through the intersection at 318 in front of two cars and straight into the garage of people whom were watching the storm.
in any case i just get pretty timid when the storms are intense. i dont mind the rain too too much it is just the nasty stuff. See you all later with hoods on...!
harmsway
Tour de Frank
HEY ALL!
Just in case you failed to read the fine print -- the July 10th trike race at The Bicycle Store is from 5:30-7:00 AM. We're talking sunrise! Hope that does scare all you potential racers and fans away.
jm
Just in case you failed to read the fine print -- the July 10th trike race at The Bicycle Store is from 5:30-7:00 AM. We're talking sunrise! Hope that does scare all you potential racers and fans away.
jm
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Let's Try it Again
I am reposting a previous post from last week. As you all know, what was looking like the best ride of the summer thus far was cancelled last Thursday due to Thunder Storms. We're going to try it again ...
"Thursday ride, you will have the distinct pleasure of discovering the two things that our neighboring town of New Wilmington PA does right -- it's COFFEE and it's HILLS!! We will be taking off from Mugsies Coffee House at 6:00pm (there is parking directly across the street). If you need a quick after-work-boost before the ride, their coffee will do it.
Harmer is planning on doing another one of his grueling hill circuits and the route looks pretty enticing.
Harm's Hill Circuit: NEW WILMINGTON CIRCUIT
"Thursday ride, you will have the distinct pleasure of discovering the two things that our neighboring town of New Wilmington PA does right -- it's COFFEE and it's HILLS!! We will be taking off from Mugsies Coffee House at 6:00pm (there is parking directly across the street). If you need a quick after-work-boost before the ride, their coffee will do it.
Harmer is planning on doing another one of his grueling hill circuits and the route looks pretty enticing.
Harm's Hill Circuit: NEW WILMINGTON CIRCUIT
tuesday's gone with wind........
word...! hey i just wanted to give a "Hell Yeah!" to those of you who have been riding with/without the group. those of you who are doin it on your own, IT SHOWS! and those who aren't you are still improving greatly. over the past couple weeks it seems as though tuesdays ride is getting faster and faster. we have a couple of people that are willing and able to push the pace and some who are starting to get the overall picture and work with the entire group to increase the longevity of the ride and the riders. I am totally impressed with what I am seeing.
as i have stated before, riding together will help everyone out. tighter riding lines and stacking yourselves closer together really tends to cut down on a lot of drag and resistance due to the wind. everyone seems to be trying to get er dun the way it is intended to be. i would really love to see more people show for the rides, this way we could divy things up and have everyone ride in groups in which they feel would be more appropriate for them. we would really like to get all of our groups implemented so that everyone can be where they need to be according to their abilities.
all in all congratulations on your improvements guys/girls, and keep striving to get better. count your alone time in the saddle as double time, cause that is where you make yourself who/what you are on the bike. all who want to come out and ride, please remember i will always try to make each ride that i am on as beneficial to you as i possibly can.
also wanted to mention that July 8th and 9th we have a few people who will be returning (as former winners) to the "6 Hours of Power", to attempt to claim the first positions in their classes. Jason N' Jason will be riding as a two man team 30+, P.B. and Ryan Gotch will be riding as a male/female team, and outside of others I dont know about, there are two others who will take a stab at the competition. Glenn Gerasimek (Gerasimek's Tree Service) and David Hornak (Hornak's Sales and Service), will be on a two man team 30+. Wish us all luck as this 6 hours is a very difficult race and will push us all close to our limits if not exceed them. If anyone would like to just come and check it out, you can get to their site by and through www.heartrateup.com. You may also check the results and possibly see some photos there too after the race is complete.
ride fun, ride far, and ride fast....
harmsway
as i have stated before, riding together will help everyone out. tighter riding lines and stacking yourselves closer together really tends to cut down on a lot of drag and resistance due to the wind. everyone seems to be trying to get er dun the way it is intended to be. i would really love to see more people show for the rides, this way we could divy things up and have everyone ride in groups in which they feel would be more appropriate for them. we would really like to get all of our groups implemented so that everyone can be where they need to be according to their abilities.
all in all congratulations on your improvements guys/girls, and keep striving to get better. count your alone time in the saddle as double time, cause that is where you make yourself who/what you are on the bike. all who want to come out and ride, please remember i will always try to make each ride that i am on as beneficial to you as i possibly can.
also wanted to mention that July 8th and 9th we have a few people who will be returning (as former winners) to the "6 Hours of Power", to attempt to claim the first positions in their classes. Jason N' Jason will be riding as a two man team 30+, P.B. and Ryan Gotch will be riding as a male/female team, and outside of others I dont know about, there are two others who will take a stab at the competition. Glenn Gerasimek (Gerasimek's Tree Service) and David Hornak (Hornak's Sales and Service), will be on a two man team 30+. Wish us all luck as this 6 hours is a very difficult race and will push us all close to our limits if not exceed them. If anyone would like to just come and check it out, you can get to their site by and through www.heartrateup.com. You may also check the results and possibly see some photos there too after the race is complete.
ride fun, ride far, and ride fast....
harmsway
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Team Courage -- All Smiles
Just wanted to post a shot of the Team Courage members who participated in the Tour de Cure last Sunday. A good time was had by all (despite a major wipe-out by yours truly)and we raised a little money for a great cause in the process.
Who's ready to sign up for next year?
i think i can, i think i can
hey just wanted to post this link for anyone who would like to ready an interesting, bicycle related story, and blog. this guy has come a long way, and it is pretty amazing. I have not read everything yet, but will try to do so. I found that what i had read was interesting enough to pass on to all. Here you are: http://whatsyourstory.msn.com/?src=spaceshome&id=2>1=8232
enjoy, and remember long live the cycling community, and thanks to all of you who are participating in creating a culture within our society (locally) that did not exist for quite some time. We are all greatly appreciative of your participation.
sincerely,
Jason
enjoy, and remember long live the cycling community, and thanks to all of you who are participating in creating a culture within our society (locally) that did not exist for quite some time. We are all greatly appreciative of your participation.
sincerely,
Jason
TOUR MANIA -- "Tour De Frank"
This just in. . .
Monday July 10th 5:30-7:00 am at The Bicycle Store of Hermitage
"Tour De Frank" - Frank Mazullo of Channel 21 will be doing live telecast
from store. We need "riders" to race against him in tricycle race!!
We will be serving food and "champagne"!!
Please try to recruit as many people as possible
Thanks, Debbie
Stopped by the Bike Store at lunch to give them some more of our cards. They are pretty jacked about Frank coming. Hey! I don't know where else you could dust Frank Marzullo on a trike AND have Champagne with him afterwards. And we've got a personal invite. COMMENT BELOW if you'd like to sign up for the race. BYOT (Bring Your Own Trike). If you don't have one, I think the Bike Store may be supplying TREK trikes. Either way -- sounds like a great event.
Maybe we'll have some 2wf T-shirts by then! I'm working on it.
jm
Monday July 10th 5:30-7:00 am at The Bicycle Store of Hermitage
"Tour De Frank" - Frank Mazullo of Channel 21 will be doing live telecast
from store. We need "riders" to race against him in tricycle race!!
We will be serving food and "champagne"!!
Please try to recruit as many people as possible
Thanks, Debbie
Stopped by the Bike Store at lunch to give them some more of our cards. They are pretty jacked about Frank coming. Hey! I don't know where else you could dust Frank Marzullo on a trike AND have Champagne with him afterwards. And we've got a personal invite. COMMENT BELOW if you'd like to sign up for the race. BYOT (Bring Your Own Trike). If you don't have one, I think the Bike Store may be supplying TREK trikes. Either way -- sounds like a great event.
Maybe we'll have some 2wf T-shirts by then! I'm working on it.
jm
NEW LOOK FOR 2WF
HEY ALL!
In trying to keep busy during this lousy weather, i've started playing around with a 'logo' for our group. Looking for input. Let me know what you think of this rough draft -- comments, criticisms, other ideas, etc are encouraged. I am not too excited about Font right now. Need a little help.
In trying to keep busy during this lousy weather, i've started playing around with a 'logo' for our group. Looking for input. Let me know what you think of this rough draft -- comments, criticisms, other ideas, etc are encouraged. I am not too excited about Font right now. Need a little help.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Morraine State Park
Wow, is that forest something else? Mountain biked last weekend in Morraine State Park and boy oh boy, does it remind me of how to make a mountain biker a mountain biker. This place is covered with all the terrain necessary to make you a true mtn biker. You have some really challenging hill climbs, tough rock garden sections, few flats to recover, and much off camber trail to challenge even the best of mtn bikers. I cannot say enough for the technical status that this place has.
Years ago when the original makers of the trail created it, there were so many rough sections that you almost had a hard time even riding it. There was so much mud in some places that you could not ride them, and so many rocks that you didn't dare fall down. Since then there must be a newer crowd maintaining things because the routes have been changed to avoid the mud, make it a little longer and get some more traversible rocky sections. They have also added many many (wheel barrow loads i am guessing) sections of gravel to soak some of the water, i think. But again still managing to provide a very difficult place to ride.
I unfortunately had the inconvienence of getting a flat tire on the front wheel. Since I did not use my noggin i did not bring a tube, which provided me with the pleasure of stopping to pump my tire every five to ten minutes. Make sure that you are prepared for anything when mountain biking in any area. Anything can go wrong and sometimes it always does.
In any case I just wanted to let everyone know about this place because it truly is an awesome place to ride, and will sincerely change a mountain biker who wants a place to ride to get better. There are other places to go that will also set the grounds for serious improvement, but many are a little further to drive to get to. If you have the luxury of also having a mountain bike, dont be affraid to get out there and try this aspect of cycling out. You just might find that you are a mountain biker at heart. It will challenge you in ways that you probably would never have thought you could be.
To all us roadies on the outside, I shall see you all tues and thurs this week. Keep in mind that thursday we will be on a circuit ride and that pace will be slower unless we are on the hill. The idea is to judge where you are at the beginning and ride the hill harder but still attempting to keep enough in reserve such that you may climb the hill repeatedly. This will also teach your body to recover after a hard effort. Recovery is key even while you are on the bike.
Summer Intake:
Water or energy drink: one bottle an hour
Food intake: 250 calories an hour
Winter Intake: Same
See ya all soon......
Jason
Years ago when the original makers of the trail created it, there were so many rough sections that you almost had a hard time even riding it. There was so much mud in some places that you could not ride them, and so many rocks that you didn't dare fall down. Since then there must be a newer crowd maintaining things because the routes have been changed to avoid the mud, make it a little longer and get some more traversible rocky sections. They have also added many many (wheel barrow loads i am guessing) sections of gravel to soak some of the water, i think. But again still managing to provide a very difficult place to ride.
I unfortunately had the inconvienence of getting a flat tire on the front wheel. Since I did not use my noggin i did not bring a tube, which provided me with the pleasure of stopping to pump my tire every five to ten minutes. Make sure that you are prepared for anything when mountain biking in any area. Anything can go wrong and sometimes it always does.
In any case I just wanted to let everyone know about this place because it truly is an awesome place to ride, and will sincerely change a mountain biker who wants a place to ride to get better. There are other places to go that will also set the grounds for serious improvement, but many are a little further to drive to get to. If you have the luxury of also having a mountain bike, dont be affraid to get out there and try this aspect of cycling out. You just might find that you are a mountain biker at heart. It will challenge you in ways that you probably would never have thought you could be.
To all us roadies on the outside, I shall see you all tues and thurs this week. Keep in mind that thursday we will be on a circuit ride and that pace will be slower unless we are on the hill. The idea is to judge where you are at the beginning and ride the hill harder but still attempting to keep enough in reserve such that you may climb the hill repeatedly. This will also teach your body to recover after a hard effort. Recovery is key even while you are on the bike.
Summer Intake:
Water or energy drink: one bottle an hour
Food intake: 250 calories an hour
Winter Intake: Same
See ya all soon......
Jason
Friday, June 23, 2006
Pittsburgh Bike Mass
CALLING ALL 2WF'S:
The idea of a "bike mass" is for us bikers to claim the streets back from rude, oblivious passers-by on four motored wheels. At least that's part of it. Now I'm not suggesting we convert to 'Amishism' (although that has some appeal), just one fun night out in a wonderful city as a GROUP, if enough of us are interested.
SIDE BAR: Recently, at an extremely challenging, hilly marathon called God's Country Marathon in Olean, N.Y., an Amish women joined the race.....in her traditional Amish get-up (a heavy fabric dress), on a very warm day. One guy, a very good runner and iron-man competitor, said to his new wife (who was new to running), "Your goal is to beat her." Well, the Amish women beat them both! True Story.
The Pittsburgh Bike Mass next Friday, June 30th, would be a great opportunity for our bike club to get together (Groups A+, B, M, ect.)!!! John and Amy, wouldn't it be great to tour the town and NOT freeze your .............(fill in the blank) off?!!?! I'm happy to be a d.d. for up to four, but could only take two bikes.
Post a comment to this site if interested, and we could discuss at next week's Tues./Thur. ride.
The idea of a "bike mass" is for us bikers to claim the streets back from rude, oblivious passers-by on four motored wheels. At least that's part of it. Now I'm not suggesting we convert to 'Amishism' (although that has some appeal), just one fun night out in a wonderful city as a GROUP, if enough of us are interested.
SIDE BAR: Recently, at an extremely challenging, hilly marathon called God's Country Marathon in Olean, N.Y., an Amish women joined the race.....in her traditional Amish get-up (a heavy fabric dress), on a very warm day. One guy, a very good runner and iron-man competitor, said to his new wife (who was new to running), "Your goal is to beat her." Well, the Amish women beat them both! True Story.
The Pittsburgh Bike Mass next Friday, June 30th, would be a great opportunity for our bike club to get together (Groups A+, B, M, ect.)!!! John and Amy, wouldn't it be great to tour the town and NOT freeze your .............(fill in the blank) off?!!?! I'm happy to be a d.d. for up to four, but could only take two bikes.
Post a comment to this site if interested, and we could discuss at next week's Tues./Thur. ride.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
HATE TO DO THIS, BUT...
As I type, the newly installed storm warning on Snyder hill is blaring news of the Thunderstorm, and as much as I hate to cancel what may have very well been the best ride of the year, I'm going to pull the plug on this one folks. I've gotten a few "I'm outs" from fellow riders, and even our ride leader Jason 'Harmless' Harmer has posted satellite images of tonights forcast -- and it doesn't look good. On top of the thunder and lightning there is also a call for 3/4" hail, which would be ok if we were not riding at 15-20 miles an hour (off the hill of course). And even though -- with the way weather forecasting has been going lately-- it may very well be sunny and 75 come 6PM,
it is with a sad heart that I am officially POSTPONING (that's right, postponing not cancelling -- you don't think i'd let you all off that easy) this awesome ride till next Thursday.
Painstakingly yours,
jm
2-WF Ride Organizer
it is with a sad heart that I am officially POSTPONING (that's right, postponing not cancelling -- you don't think i'd let you all off that easy) this awesome ride till next Thursday.
Painstakingly yours,
jm
2-WF Ride Organizer
weather
here is what i have to say about tonight:
http://www.weather.com/weather/map/USPA0707?name=index_large_animated&day=1&from=36hr_svrWatch_golf
you'll make the call......
jason...
http://www.weather.com/weather/map/USPA0707?name=index_large_animated&day=1&from=36hr_svrWatch_golf
you'll make the call......
jason...
Singletracker 4 Evva
Hey;
I'm in the book, you probably have my email. Call/Email, we'll hook up for any type of training your little O'le heart desires.
I remain Jewish:
J
I'm in the book, you probably have my email. Call/Email, we'll hook up for any type of training your little O'le heart desires.
I remain Jewish:
J
Wheres R fearless "B" leader? J-who?
I was wondering what ever happened to that guy that said he would lead a slower "B" group on tuesday and saturday? Does anyone know who I am talking about? Older fella, a little taller, maybe losing a few folicles, may be in running shoes, mtn shoes, road shoes, swim shoes, drill instructor shoes.....etc. If anyone should see this fine gentleman, could you please report the siting on this here very blog, as it is very important that we speak with him as soon as it may be possible.
If anyone is desiring a ride on Saturday, please let me know. I am looking for a shorter faster ride on the road, but if I may find anyone interested in pounding some ATB trails, i am down with that too. Just would like to have a hard day in, prior to the "CRUISE" on sunday.
p.s. - - -talk to all and please try to get as many as possible to attend all and any rides departing from the bike store in the next couple of weeks. I wont be able to be there for all of them as we have some upcoming racing events, but will do my best to be there when I can. Also if anyone is interested in attending these up and coming endurance events, let someone know. Even if you dont race, it is still quite an experience, and one that I may also say you most likely wont forget. You may even quite possibly get the spark ignition that you need to send you into the mountain biking world.
"Singletracker 4-Evva"
If anyone is desiring a ride on Saturday, please let me know. I am looking for a shorter faster ride on the road, but if I may find anyone interested in pounding some ATB trails, i am down with that too. Just would like to have a hard day in, prior to the "CRUISE" on sunday.
p.s. - - -talk to all and please try to get as many as possible to attend all and any rides departing from the bike store in the next couple of weeks. I wont be able to be there for all of them as we have some upcoming racing events, but will do my best to be there when I can. Also if anyone is interested in attending these up and coming endurance events, let someone know. Even if you dont race, it is still quite an experience, and one that I may also say you most likely wont forget. You may even quite possibly get the spark ignition that you need to send you into the mountain biking world.
"Singletracker 4-Evva"
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
3 Things to Remember!
just a quick post to remind all you 2-WFs of three upcoming events.
#1. Thursday Ride (6/22) taking off from Mugsies in New Wilmington (see post below for more info). It's going to be one hell of a ride -- BE THERE!
#2. Tour de Cure (6/25) starting at Seneca Valley High School. Various ride lengths. See post below for more details and link.
#3. TOUR MANIA starts at 'The Bicycle Store' in Hermitage. All Tuesday and Saturday rides will be taking off from there starting Saturday 7-1 at 6:30am!!!! Please either email me or leave a comment below if you plan on making it. Mike and Debbie would like an idea how many of us might be there -- word is they may feed us upon our return!!!
Your Fellow Freak,
jm
#1. Thursday Ride (6/22) taking off from Mugsies in New Wilmington (see post below for more info). It's going to be one hell of a ride -- BE THERE!
#2. Tour de Cure (6/25) starting at Seneca Valley High School. Various ride lengths. See post below for more details and link.
#3. TOUR MANIA starts at 'The Bicycle Store' in Hermitage. All Tuesday and Saturday rides will be taking off from there starting Saturday 7-1 at 6:30am!!!! Please either email me or leave a comment below if you plan on making it. Mike and Debbie would like an idea how many of us might be there -- word is they may feed us upon our return!!!
Your Fellow Freak,
jm
Monday, June 19, 2006
This weeks line up!!!
OK, so i've noticed a little lapse in participation lately -- 3 or 4 riders here, 5 or 6 there. Well, in an attempt to KICK START the group so that we can be up to full throttle again for the July Tour festivities, I've altered this weeks schedule slightly. Tuesday's ride will still be from the park -- regular time 5:45-6:00pm start. However, for those of you attending the Thursday ride, you will have the distinct pleasure of discovering the two things that our neighboring town of New Wilmington PA does right -- it's COFFEE and it's HILLS!! We will be taking off from Mugsies Coffee House at 6:00pm (there is parking directly across the street). If you need a quick after-work-boost before the ride, their coffee will do it.
Harmer is planning on doing another one of his grueling hill circuits. Depending on how many show and who wants to, i placed a link to an alternate route for those not wanting to chase their tails -- although now that i've seen Harm's route, it's pretty enticing.
Harm's Hill Circuit: NEW WILMINGTON CIRCUIT
Alternate Route: NEW WILMINGTON RIDE
Harmer is planning on doing another one of his grueling hill circuits. Depending on how many show and who wants to, i placed a link to an alternate route for those not wanting to chase their tails -- although now that i've seen Harm's route, it's pretty enticing.
Harm's Hill Circuit: NEW WILMINGTON CIRCUIT
Alternate Route: NEW WILMINGTON RIDE
Group A+, and Group M
Hey just wanted to let you all know that it is now upon us to spend some time off-the-road in the next few weeks. As you all may know, or have heard, a couple of us "Heavy Hitters" are primarily Mountain Biking guru's. Since it is getting later in the summer months "ALREADY", we have to begin to prepare those muscles, that we dont really excersize while road riding, for the beating we will subject ourselves to on the trails of upcoming events. The one that a few of us will be hitting will be the 6-Hours of power in Ellicottville, New York. This is a tag team relay event (or solo, if you so desire) in which two persons riding of an on for Six Hours straight, on the slopes and trails of Holiday Valley Ski-Resort.
I want to introduce to all the "Group-M" which will be a Mountain Biking group that will be meeting on Sunday Mornings at various places every weekend. Now I do want to say that I cannot guarantee the pace or place of every ride. The pace, even when we would like to keep it slow, doesn't always remain constant. Since those of us who ride together off road have such a passion for speed and dirt, we all tend to force the pace and usually someone will be suffering. If you would like to join us you are more than welcome to do so. Just remember that our pace can get brutal at times, and we all love to blaze the trail. I will do what I can to converse with John about posting our mountain bike rides for sundays on the web so that if you are interested you may join, or even get a ride.
My next topic will be the "Group-A+". I was told two weeks ago that "we need to have a group that rides faster." I did not say much about it at the time, but thought about it over the last two weeks. Maybe we should change things to "A, B, & C and the M of course", in essence giving us the Fast A, Intermediate B, and the Cruising C, with the adventurous M's of course. I will have to talk with "Big John" on that. However, I want to introduce this week the A+ on thursday to start. I will take out whomever would like to go out with the idea in mind of working a little harder than normal to test our limits and increase our potential. What I am talking of is getting a couple of people together that would like to increase their potential so that on competition day they may be a little further than the guy standing next to them on the line. We can do some hill repeats, sprints, intervals, tempo riding, etc. I just want to make clear that whatever we do this will not be an easy ride. So if that is not your goal on that day, dont do it! Trust me on this though, whatever we do as the A+ group, you will benefit from it, I promise.
I would like to also back up PB (now gonna call her Peanut Butter) on her post. I cannot say enough for what everyone has collectively become a part of. There have been many occassions in the past twenty years of my life as a cyclist that people have tried to start some type of riding group in the area. None have stayed. I would really love to see this group of people become a long and lasting thing for many moons to come. You have no idea how awesome it is to see people getting together to ride continuously. I mean I have spent thousands and thousands of miles on the road and hundreds of miles off road, and have done so many of them alone. When you have people to ride with things always seem to be that much more motivating to you. I know that sometimes you dont always get what you want out of riding with a group, but those would be the days that you should be alone. When you don't really feel so much like going out there and sweating it out, or it is too cold........all us freaks that will.........should be the motivation to help you do so. Not to mention, people that ride, no matter the personality, will always have something to talk about. You can never be in a group of people that ride and not find something to speak about. You will always feel at home with them, and always be capable of having a common ground.
Looking forward to riding the 100 this weekend with as many of you as possible. Hopefully I wont feel to frisky and decide to jump on any fast wheels and dissappear again. Also looking forward to getting a pretty good plus ride in on thursday and a nice day on tuesday. Try to encourage all you know to attend the rides this week and next week so that we may encourage all to attend the up coming Tour Festivities in July starting from the Bike Shop in Hermitage.
See You all soon....
Harmsway
I want to introduce to all the "Group-M" which will be a Mountain Biking group that will be meeting on Sunday Mornings at various places every weekend. Now I do want to say that I cannot guarantee the pace or place of every ride. The pace, even when we would like to keep it slow, doesn't always remain constant. Since those of us who ride together off road have such a passion for speed and dirt, we all tend to force the pace and usually someone will be suffering. If you would like to join us you are more than welcome to do so. Just remember that our pace can get brutal at times, and we all love to blaze the trail. I will do what I can to converse with John about posting our mountain bike rides for sundays on the web so that if you are interested you may join, or even get a ride.
My next topic will be the "Group-A+". I was told two weeks ago that "we need to have a group that rides faster." I did not say much about it at the time, but thought about it over the last two weeks. Maybe we should change things to "A, B, & C and the M of course", in essence giving us the Fast A, Intermediate B, and the Cruising C, with the adventurous M's of course. I will have to talk with "Big John" on that. However, I want to introduce this week the A+ on thursday to start. I will take out whomever would like to go out with the idea in mind of working a little harder than normal to test our limits and increase our potential. What I am talking of is getting a couple of people together that would like to increase their potential so that on competition day they may be a little further than the guy standing next to them on the line. We can do some hill repeats, sprints, intervals, tempo riding, etc. I just want to make clear that whatever we do this will not be an easy ride. So if that is not your goal on that day, dont do it! Trust me on this though, whatever we do as the A+ group, you will benefit from it, I promise.
I would like to also back up PB (now gonna call her Peanut Butter) on her post. I cannot say enough for what everyone has collectively become a part of. There have been many occassions in the past twenty years of my life as a cyclist that people have tried to start some type of riding group in the area. None have stayed. I would really love to see this group of people become a long and lasting thing for many moons to come. You have no idea how awesome it is to see people getting together to ride continuously. I mean I have spent thousands and thousands of miles on the road and hundreds of miles off road, and have done so many of them alone. When you have people to ride with things always seem to be that much more motivating to you. I know that sometimes you dont always get what you want out of riding with a group, but those would be the days that you should be alone. When you don't really feel so much like going out there and sweating it out, or it is too cold........all us freaks that will.........should be the motivation to help you do so. Not to mention, people that ride, no matter the personality, will always have something to talk about. You can never be in a group of people that ride and not find something to speak about. You will always feel at home with them, and always be capable of having a common ground.
Looking forward to riding the 100 this weekend with as many of you as possible. Hopefully I wont feel to frisky and decide to jump on any fast wheels and dissappear again. Also looking forward to getting a pretty good plus ride in on thursday and a nice day on tuesday. Try to encourage all you know to attend the rides this week and next week so that we may encourage all to attend the up coming Tour Festivities in July starting from the Bike Shop in Hermitage.
See You all soon....
Harmsway
Friday, June 16, 2006
Gratitude
This is not an informative post...just a thank you to John and everyone for the group rides. It's been great to share the passion of riding with other people close to home. Some of which we may never have met otherwise. Personally, I've learned a lot about road riding. Things I may not have had the courage to learn or experience without the security of a group. I'm grateful to those who have taken the initiative to lead the rides too. It's a luxury to have someone who knows a safe route.
I admire John, Amy, Paula, Len, Dave, Jay and everyone who's combined their love of riding with raising money for great causes. We've all been so blessed to be able to ride...what better way to use it! I'm hoping to raise the minimum $100 and ride the Tour de Cure.
Looking forward to future rides and sharing the Tour de France with you all in July. Let's hope the USA has some contenders.
Viva la riding 2wf's,
Paula B.
I admire John, Amy, Paula, Len, Dave, Jay and everyone who's combined their love of riding with raising money for great causes. We've all been so blessed to be able to ride...what better way to use it! I'm hoping to raise the minimum $100 and ride the Tour de Cure.
Looking forward to future rides and sharing the Tour de France with you all in July. Let's hope the USA has some contenders.
Viva la riding 2wf's,
Paula B.
Route for Crack-of-Dawn Ride 6-17-06
Here it is -- a nice Hermitage - Sharpsville - Greenville - Mercer 45 mile loop. Plan to stick to about a 15pmh pace which will get us home at 9:30 -- giving everyone plenty of time to cut grass, eat lunch, sip on a mimosa, take a nap, whatever. Remember, ride leaves my place at 6:30AM !!
Looking forward to a great ride -- weather looking awesome for the entire weekend.
45 MILE Hermitage-Sharpsville-Greenville-Mercer Loop
Looking forward to a great ride -- weather looking awesome for the entire weekend.
45 MILE Hermitage-Sharpsville-Greenville-Mercer Loop
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
2WFs TO SUPPORT THE BICYCLE STORE of HERMITAGE's "TOUR MANIA"
Calling all 2WFs!! For the month of July The Bicycle Store of Hermitage is going to be running a Tour Mania to kick off the Tour de France and they have asked us if we'd like to participate by starting some of our rides out from their shop. SO, for the month of July, our Saturday and Tuesday rides will begin and end at the Bicycle Store. See their link below for directions and info on the event.
On Saturday, July 8th they are going to be having a tent with some 'French' foods and are inviting a few other vendors to stop in, so there will be a little reward for those riding the early morning Crack of Dawn ride starting at 6:30am.
I would really like to get a good turnout for this Tour Mania and support our local bike shop. Mike and Debbie have a blurb on their site in support of us and i'd like to return the favor.
Phone: 724-342-2031, Fax: 724-342-2031
Store Hours: M 12-7, T-F 10-7, S 10-4, Closed Sunday
Viva la 2WFs
jm
On Saturday, July 8th they are going to be having a tent with some 'French' foods and are inviting a few other vendors to stop in, so there will be a little reward for those riding the early morning Crack of Dawn ride starting at 6:30am.
I would really like to get a good turnout for this Tour Mania and support our local bike shop. Mike and Debbie have a blurb on their site in support of us and i'd like to return the favor.
Phone: 724-342-2031, Fax: 724-342-2031
Store Hours: M 12-7, T-F 10-7, S 10-4, Closed Sunday
Viva la 2WFs
jm
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
THURSDAY 6-15-2006
Hello all....! Just wanted to send a little message out to everyone letting them know a little about the ride for thursday th 15th that will be leaving from Big John's Place (sounds like a bar). After speaking with Big John, we thougtht that it would be pretty neat to change the route/ride for a day and see what everyone thinks about it. Now what we are considering doing is a circuit/criterium style ride. What that means is that we will be laying out a route somewhere in the area with a smaller distance and we will do laps around the entire route. Why do we want to do this? Well for one it gives everyone the knowledge of where we are going and where we will be. Since we are doing GROUP rides on tues. and thurs., and the pace seems to always get lifted and we finish with less than we started, this will allow us all to be on the same course and pickup anyone who should fall back or see them again on the next lap, whatever. In all reality it is really setting a substrate for you to focus on certain aspects of your training/group ride. We will include one long hill where you will be able to set yourself a tempo for a good duration (which helps you learn how to train yourself to recover on hills), and there will be some good flat sections for recovery and a great downhill to help on your descents and speed. The route will then hit the uphill climb again. Once we have everyone that will be doing the ride on thursday, we will then determine if everyone would like to regroup at the top of the climb or if everyone would just like to be picked back up on the next time around.
Sometimes circuit style rides are very good for you, in that you can see how you did the time previous and think about how you would like to approach it the second or third or fourth....etc. It should be very fun, as if almost doing a criterium road race where you would do laps around a much smaller course, most likely 1 mile. They usually can be dangerous. When the distance of the route is increased they are usually called circuit races. In any case, we just wanted to throw something new out there and see how it all works.
The route in mind is as follows (and if anyone has any suggestions we may work them in and change as desired): from Big John's; a one mile warm up down Robertson Rd. to the intersection at Lamor Rd.; we crossover Lamor Road and begin the circuit/route down robertson road to valley view road where we will make a right and proceed to state route 258, and make a right up to neshannock road and begin our long gradient hill climb all the way back up to Lamor Road. We will then make a right turn at lamor and neshannock and ride to winner road and make another right and go all the way back down to 258 and proceed to make lap # 2. Now we can go all the way back to robertson but in my opinion Valley View road is poorly paved and a little dangerous, so I would prefer not to return to it. Ideally I would like to ride with everyone for at least two laps around to make sure everyone knows where they are going and what not. I think that the mileage would be about 4 miles or so, so I am thinking that we would do about 7-8 laps. But again everything is all up to those who are interested in participating. I know that some of us have events that are coming up and this could be an opportunity to work on some areas that you may not get to on your own.
So we will leave and warm up together, ride a lap or two together, and pending everyones opinion or desire regroup on the top of the climb (which does have a flat spot and then one last little who-rah at the top, so the top is at the farm about a 1/2 mi. from the blinker on lamor), and then ride to Winner road for the second lap together and then we will get busy.....
Just a little HEADS-UP on "GROUP RIDES"....the intent and purpose of a group ride, outside of something new that we will try on thursday, is to ride TOGETHER. We had 12 people start about two weeks ago on a tuesday and finished with five together. Now we all know that everyone has there own agenda and quite possibly their own training schedule, and that is great. But if you intend upon riding with a group your intentions should not be to come to the ride and blow it up. If you have a certain way that you have to ride on that day, then go do it. If you have a certain distance that you have to ride that day, then go do it. You see the faster people of the group don't go out with the intentions of dropping everyone, and if they did they could. But they don't. If collectively everyone decides that they want to ride 50 miles then that is what they will do. If they only want to do 25 then that is that. We just want to maintain the original idea of getting together to ride with people and finish with those people. Take advantage of those around you and see if there is anyone that wants to go out and hammer, or dissappear into the sunset, its tons of fun. But when the common goal is to ride together, we would like to finish together. I am sure that on a couple separate instances I have dissappeared, but I always try to come back and get those who were left behind.
I hope that the group riding has been beneficial to all. I have seen alot of improvement in everyone that I have ridden with. I am sure that the more consistent all of you are in riding the better that you will all get. Keep up the hard work and if you have not tried any of those long distance rides or events, you really should. They change everything about the way you ride, the time in which you do it and they really make you a better person (how, I am still trying to figure out, but that is what I am always being told?).
Happy Trails (and roads) !!!
Sometimes circuit style rides are very good for you, in that you can see how you did the time previous and think about how you would like to approach it the second or third or fourth....etc. It should be very fun, as if almost doing a criterium road race where you would do laps around a much smaller course, most likely 1 mile. They usually can be dangerous. When the distance of the route is increased they are usually called circuit races. In any case, we just wanted to throw something new out there and see how it all works.
The route in mind is as follows (and if anyone has any suggestions we may work them in and change as desired): from Big John's; a one mile warm up down Robertson Rd. to the intersection at Lamor Rd.; we crossover Lamor Road and begin the circuit/route down robertson road to valley view road where we will make a right and proceed to state route 258, and make a right up to neshannock road and begin our long gradient hill climb all the way back up to Lamor Road. We will then make a right turn at lamor and neshannock and ride to winner road and make another right and go all the way back down to 258 and proceed to make lap # 2. Now we can go all the way back to robertson but in my opinion Valley View road is poorly paved and a little dangerous, so I would prefer not to return to it. Ideally I would like to ride with everyone for at least two laps around to make sure everyone knows where they are going and what not. I think that the mileage would be about 4 miles or so, so I am thinking that we would do about 7-8 laps. But again everything is all up to those who are interested in participating. I know that some of us have events that are coming up and this could be an opportunity to work on some areas that you may not get to on your own.
So we will leave and warm up together, ride a lap or two together, and pending everyones opinion or desire regroup on the top of the climb (which does have a flat spot and then one last little who-rah at the top, so the top is at the farm about a 1/2 mi. from the blinker on lamor), and then ride to Winner road for the second lap together and then we will get busy.....
Just a little HEADS-UP on "GROUP RIDES"....the intent and purpose of a group ride, outside of something new that we will try on thursday, is to ride TOGETHER. We had 12 people start about two weeks ago on a tuesday and finished with five together. Now we all know that everyone has there own agenda and quite possibly their own training schedule, and that is great. But if you intend upon riding with a group your intentions should not be to come to the ride and blow it up. If you have a certain way that you have to ride on that day, then go do it. If you have a certain distance that you have to ride that day, then go do it. You see the faster people of the group don't go out with the intentions of dropping everyone, and if they did they could. But they don't. If collectively everyone decides that they want to ride 50 miles then that is what they will do. If they only want to do 25 then that is that. We just want to maintain the original idea of getting together to ride with people and finish with those people. Take advantage of those around you and see if there is anyone that wants to go out and hammer, or dissappear into the sunset, its tons of fun. But when the common goal is to ride together, we would like to finish together. I am sure that on a couple separate instances I have dissappeared, but I always try to come back and get those who were left behind.
I hope that the group riding has been beneficial to all. I have seen alot of improvement in everyone that I have ridden with. I am sure that the more consistent all of you are in riding the better that you will all get. Keep up the hard work and if you have not tried any of those long distance rides or events, you really should. They change everything about the way you ride, the time in which you do it and they really make you a better person (how, I am still trying to figure out, but that is what I am always being told?).
Happy Trails (and roads) !!!
MS150 -- Riding against the Wind
Well, for those 2WFs out there that missed it, this years MS150 was a great ride!! Awesome weather for both Saturday and Sunday's ride. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a great two day trip for an even greater cause. Our reception into Conneaut Ohio made the trip worth while -- streets lined with families holding signs thanking us for helping in the fight against MS. A truly touching experience I will not soon forget.
The support teams were terrific -- rest and food stops well supplied and Allegheny College did a commendable job of hosting the 1800+ riders for the evening. Would definately recommend the tent option to anyone interested. And food tasted delicious!
Looking forward to next year. On a side note -- if anyone is interested in getting a sweet looking (unofficially voted "Best Jersey of the MS150) Team Courage jersey, email me. I'm going to be placing another order soon!
jm
The support teams were terrific -- rest and food stops well supplied and Allegheny College did a commendable job of hosting the 1800+ riders for the evening. Would definately recommend the tent option to anyone interested. And food tasted delicious!
Looking forward to next year. On a side note -- if anyone is interested in getting a sweet looking (unofficially voted "Best Jersey of the MS150) Team Courage jersey, email me. I'm going to be placing another order soon!
jm
Monday, June 05, 2006
MS150 JERSEYS ARE FINALLY IN!!!!!
The jerseys are in!!! I will have them at the park Tue for the ride if you can make it there between 5:45-6:00PM. After that they will be at my house. Please reply to this post to arrange a time to pick them up if you can't make it to the park. For the few of you who haven't paid, please bring $60. Hope everyone likes them!
jm
jm
Friday, June 02, 2006
Sunday ride at park will start a 7:30 instead of 8:00. See past post for details.
If it's raining buckets, call me at 962-1861 and we'll back the ride up, say an hour or so. If it's just drizzle, we'll ride. I don't mind riding in light rain, but T-Storms, I'll pass.
If in doubt, call me.
J
If in doubt, call me.
J
WHO'S WITH ME???
SATURDAY, JUNE 3rd.
MEET AT THE GREENVILLE SPORTS COMPLEX 7:00 AM
HEADING OUT 7:15.
BRING $20 FOR REGISTRATION FEE.
25/62/100 MILE OPTIONS.
'SUPPOSED' TO BE GREAT WEATHER. HOPEFULLY BETTER THAN PEDDLE PITTSBURGH!!!
SEE YOU THERE
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