We are back! We left Katanning in the very chilly early morning, and rode 'tempo' to Wagin, had a coffee break and met up with others, and then rode slower tempo to Narrogin.
What's 'Tempo'? We were told that it means 'go as fast as you can!' - is this likely? It certainly felt like it.
Details will follow but here is the route: Narrogin to Collie via Williams - Collie to Bridgetown via Boyup Brook - Bridgetown to Pemberton via Donnelly Mill and Manjimup - Pemberton to Frankland (actually the Fern Gully winery!) via Manjimup - Frankland to Katanning via Cranbrook, Tambellup, Broomehill - Katanning to Narrogin via Wagin.
And now we are off to the pub. More beer and lots of food. A few of us said we will not be looking at another 'jelly snake', power bar or sports drink for a long time.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Sunday Coffee 2 and why you should deal with independent bike shops
Today's ride to Williams was much more pleasant than last week. There was no wind and the rain held off only teasing us with a few spits and the scent of rain on dry earth. The coffee was good and the company great.
As Dave mentioned below I spent the whole ride on my little chainring.The big one has been a little bent since my crash but it hasn't given me too much trouble. Then on Tuesday it started to jump as we came down the hill into town from the airport and finally the chain jumped right off.
I have been trying to find a replacement chainring for a couple of weeks and have been quoted anything from $150-$180. However no one can supply it as Shimano Australia doesn't have one in the country and estimates 6-8 weeks to get one in stock. I have spent hours on line trying all of the online cycling shops here and overseas but could only find one in the US and shipping might not get it too me in time.
In desperation I started ringing major bike retailers hoping that one might have it on the shelf. I eventually called Eric Mellers at Crankin Cycles in Collie. Eric didn't have one in stock either but he said he had one on a bike that was in stock and he would replace that crankset with another model so he could sell me the chainring I needed.
I will be giving Eric all of my business in future.
As Dave mentioned below I spent the whole ride on my little chainring.The big one has been a little bent since my crash but it hasn't given me too much trouble. Then on Tuesday it started to jump as we came down the hill into town from the airport and finally the chain jumped right off.
I have been trying to find a replacement chainring for a couple of weeks and have been quoted anything from $150-$180. However no one can supply it as Shimano Australia doesn't have one in the country and estimates 6-8 weeks to get one in stock. I have spent hours on line trying all of the online cycling shops here and overseas but could only find one in the US and shipping might not get it too me in time.
In desperation I started ringing major bike retailers hoping that one might have it on the shelf. I eventually called Eric Mellers at Crankin Cycles in Collie. Eric didn't have one in stock either but he said he had one on a bike that was in stock and he would replace that crankset with another model so he could sell me the chainring I needed.
I will be giving Eric all of my business in future.
Sunday Williams ride
A peleton (!) of four started this morning, with three going on to Williams. Craig went with us to the airport, as a recovery ride after yesterday's killer 90 km at an average of 34 km/hr. I'll leave it to one of the three supermen (Paul, Derek, Craig) to write about their pain.
Pete, Dennis and Dave took a much more relaxed approach, and stopped in Williams for coffee (all) and a muffin (Dave) before an almost wind-free return on the main Williams road. It was almost pain free too, until we got to those hills on the approach to Narrogin - ouch! We did think of Trevor and Tom doing the 5 Dams ride, for a few seconds.
Dennis is still stuck on his small chain ring - which is extra small because it is one of the new Ultegra compact rings - because no one in shops or online is stocking replacement large rings at the moment. You may remember that Dennis and his bike had a stack a few months ago. Dennis' broken wrist has repaired itself, but the bike is not so adaptable.
We averaged 30.5 km/hr for the 67 km. Not bad for Sunday riders!
Pete, Dennis and Dave took a much more relaxed approach, and stopped in Williams for coffee (all) and a muffin (Dave) before an almost wind-free return on the main Williams road. It was almost pain free too, until we got to those hills on the approach to Narrogin - ouch! We did think of Trevor and Tom doing the 5 Dams ride, for a few seconds.
Dennis is still stuck on his small chain ring - which is extra small because it is one of the new Ultegra compact rings - because no one in shops or online is stocking replacement large rings at the moment. You may remember that Dennis and his bike had a stack a few months ago. Dennis' broken wrist has repaired itself, but the bike is not so adaptable.
We averaged 30.5 km/hr for the 67 km. Not bad for Sunday riders!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Its been a while...
Its been a while since I cycled with the boys in town, I know they've been sneaking in a few longer ones on the weekend, pushing out 80 - 90, as well as the usual regular midweek ones. Either its working for them or I'm getting slower, as I could see the improvement as I hung on the back like a drowning limpet. Craig in particular has got stronger, and it was good to have him on the front, plowing into the wind on the return from Williams, like an icebreaker heading for the arctic. Goodwork lads, next week I'll bring my bungey rope.
Sunday coffee group
A group of 7 started together, and rapidly became a group of 3 - Tim, Craig and Paul who went for a 60 km sprint - and our team of 4 comprised of Dave, Peter, James and Marius, who went into the Williams Woolshed for coffee and a rest.
The tail wind was great, but it really meant that we went faster for the same amount of pain as usual! Coming back was a trial. Sometimes we were cruising along at 35-40 then the gusts would come and we would be back to 20 km/hr and working hard. And the hills at the end were not friendly. Marius discovered that he had a small chain ring, and what's more Marius has a smaller one than most (!) which meant he still had two cogs to go when I had run out. We are all learning to improve our cycling setup and pedaling technique, and it counts on those longer hard rides.
Overall, we did about 67 km, averaged about 27.5 km/hr, and took about 2 hr 24 min. That is a lot of 'abouts' because I forgot to reset when we left and got back.
The tail wind was great, but it really meant that we went faster for the same amount of pain as usual! Coming back was a trial. Sometimes we were cruising along at 35-40 then the gusts would come and we would be back to 20 km/hr and working hard. And the hills at the end were not friendly. Marius discovered that he had a small chain ring, and what's more Marius has a smaller one than most (!) which meant he still had two cogs to go when I had run out. We are all learning to improve our cycling setup and pedaling technique, and it counts on those longer hard rides.
Overall, we did about 67 km, averaged about 27.5 km/hr, and took about 2 hr 24 min. That is a lot of 'abouts' because I forgot to reset when we left and got back.
Blown away on Sunday
I don't know what I was thinking when I decided to join the ride this morning. I was running about 5 minutes late so there was no one at the Rec Centre and I decided to ride Paul's fast circuit on my own. I headed out along Clayton Road and quickly managed a good pace. I knew the wind was strong and mostly easterly meaning that the ride home was going to be tough but I continued anyway.
I made the Airport in about 16 minutes averaging 32.7 and soon found my self making even better time. The wind seemed to swirl and back, occasionally giving me a bit of resistance. I made the turn to Williams in around 55 minutes averaging 35kmh. I thought briefly about making the turn to Williams and having coffee with the "slow" group but wanted to be home around 9 so I headed toward Narrogin along the Narrogin Williams Road.
I figured that I had about 5-6 kmh assistance on the way out so hoped to average about 25kmh on the way back. I was very mistaken. There were times when I was riding on what looked like a level stretch of road and struggling to maintain 16-17 kmh. Then a gust of wind would hit me and I would drop back to under 13kmh.
I battled on. Around 15 km from town I seriously started to think about calling Catherine to come and pick me up. At around 48km into the ride I pulled into a parking area had a drink (it was too hard to drink while riding I was mostly concentrating on not being blown into traffic) I had a pee, zipped up my man suit and started the last leg home.
The wind seemed to settle a bit and the I managed a little better time for the last 12-13kms finally arriving home in 2hours 17 minutes taking about 1hr 22min for the 28 kms home, average pace for the entire ride 25.8kmh.
I must need my head examined, I should have gone for a mountain bike with Jonno and Jeremy instead.
I'll see every one Tuesday.
I made the Airport in about 16 minutes averaging 32.7 and soon found my self making even better time. The wind seemed to swirl and back, occasionally giving me a bit of resistance. I made the turn to Williams in around 55 minutes averaging 35kmh. I thought briefly about making the turn to Williams and having coffee with the "slow" group but wanted to be home around 9 so I headed toward Narrogin along the Narrogin Williams Road.
I figured that I had about 5-6 kmh assistance on the way out so hoped to average about 25kmh on the way back. I was very mistaken. There were times when I was riding on what looked like a level stretch of road and struggling to maintain 16-17 kmh. Then a gust of wind would hit me and I would drop back to under 13kmh.
I battled on. Around 15 km from town I seriously started to think about calling Catherine to come and pick me up. At around 48km into the ride I pulled into a parking area had a drink (it was too hard to drink while riding I was mostly concentrating on not being blown into traffic) I had a pee, zipped up my man suit and started the last leg home.
The wind seemed to settle a bit and the I managed a little better time for the last 12-13kms finally arriving home in 2hours 17 minutes taking about 1hr 22min for the 28 kms home, average pace for the entire ride 25.8kmh.
I must need my head examined, I should have gone for a mountain bike with Jonno and Jeremy instead.
I'll see every one Tuesday.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Waroona Pain
Craig's Diary from Waroona ride!
Hills...long ones...steep ones...ski-ramp-shaped ones...take your pick...Waroona had them all.
Left Narrogin with Paul at 6.30am and met Trev and Tom in Waroona about 9.00. No sign of Pottsie so we thought we'd whack on our bright pink tops (mine was more of a boob tube) so at least he could see us.
Finally spotted him driving to into the event with 15min to spare but only to find out that he'd withdrawn with a sore foot (heart) muscle. Pottsie had driven in on the course and when he didn't get out of first gear on those hills, he was quite thankful he'd forgotten to pack his bike.
Team Zin-Zan made a good start despite some heckling from the gals behind us who wanted to swap tops. A lazy 10km hill to start with but went well. We were thinking all was well when we cleared it but then it was another hill, then another and another....Trefort's (speed bump) hill would have been nice. The group worked well together with Paul, Tom and myself rotating through the front and Trev soldiered on in third spot.
I don't remember a single flat piece of road...I remember that because I was looking for somewhere to vomit (not so slow uphill that it would land on my handle bars and not so fast downhill that Trev would cop it). I think we averaged around 29kph over the 80km which came about by doing about 5kph up hills and 75kph downhills.
We saw all sorts in a big field. Lots of very nice bikes. Really well run and lots of....well uhmm...fun.
The highlight was our dash for the finish down that 10km hill that we encountered on the way out. We got taken over by the "green team" about 20km out and we let them go (there was about 10 of them). At about 15km out we saw they were in trouble with 3 riders pushing the one guy up the last hill. Trev was still with us so we pounced. What a ride...did the last 10km downhill at about 72kph in a big pack of pink and green. Lots of jostling for positions and really scary. Despite the vertical drop we still had to pedal really hard and we all were spent. The green team pulled away at the very end but I'm pretty sure some of them may have still been behind us - but their sprinter, who was wearing the tag, beat us to the line. We caught up with them after the race to find they enjoyed the mad dash as much as we did. I took the opportunity and asked them if any of them had seen my knee cap but to no avail - I think it landed in a cow paddock.
Check out photos and times for this ride on the website
Hills...long ones...steep ones...ski-ramp-shaped ones...take your pick...Waroona had them all.
Left Narrogin with Paul at 6.30am and met Trev and Tom in Waroona about 9.00. No sign of Pottsie so we thought we'd whack on our bright pink tops (mine was more of a boob tube) so at least he could see us.
Finally spotted him driving to into the event with 15min to spare but only to find out that he'd withdrawn with a sore foot (heart) muscle. Pottsie had driven in on the course and when he didn't get out of first gear on those hills, he was quite thankful he'd forgotten to pack his bike.
Team Zin-Zan made a good start despite some heckling from the gals behind us who wanted to swap tops. A lazy 10km hill to start with but went well. We were thinking all was well when we cleared it but then it was another hill, then another and another....Trefort's (speed bump) hill would have been nice. The group worked well together with Paul, Tom and myself rotating through the front and Trev soldiered on in third spot.
I don't remember a single flat piece of road...I remember that because I was looking for somewhere to vomit (not so slow uphill that it would land on my handle bars and not so fast downhill that Trev would cop it). I think we averaged around 29kph over the 80km which came about by doing about 5kph up hills and 75kph downhills.
We saw all sorts in a big field. Lots of very nice bikes. Really well run and lots of....well uhmm...fun.
The highlight was our dash for the finish down that 10km hill that we encountered on the way out. We got taken over by the "green team" about 20km out and we let them go (there was about 10 of them). At about 15km out we saw they were in trouble with 3 riders pushing the one guy up the last hill. Trev was still with us so we pounced. What a ride...did the last 10km downhill at about 72kph in a big pack of pink and green. Lots of jostling for positions and really scary. Despite the vertical drop we still had to pedal really hard and we all were spent. The green team pulled away at the very end but I'm pretty sure some of them may have still been behind us - but their sprinter, who was wearing the tag, beat us to the line. We caught up with them after the race to find they enjoyed the mad dash as much as we did. I took the opportunity and asked them if any of them had seen my knee cap but to no avail - I think it landed in a cow paddock.
Check out photos and times for this ride on the website
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Track bike was black and white and not red all over
Tim, Richard, Mark and David and some of the youngsters had fun on the Narrogin velodrome last night - no races, but a bit of checking out strengths and weaknesses, and then a flying 500 m time trial.
Tim brought his shiny new bike, but the shop had slipped him a black and white version instead of the red one (see post below from Tim). As we all know, red is faster, and as a result Tim's flying 500 m time was a fraction slower than Dave's time - because Dave had a red seat!
Track riding is great for developing skills that are also useful on the road. Drafting without surging, cornering at speed, and knowing how to sprint when it counts are all learnt best on the track. There is something about not having brakes and a freewheel that really focuses your mind. Probably the fear of dying. Also, track riding is a great spectator sport (bring the family) because they can see the whole event as it whips past them.
Track riding is on Friday next week, so book in your diary and get there by 7.00 am. Stay on for a cool drink and some food if you have time.
Tim brought his shiny new bike, but the shop had slipped him a black and white version instead of the red one (see post below from Tim). As we all know, red is faster, and as a result Tim's flying 500 m time was a fraction slower than Dave's time - because Dave had a red seat!
Track riding is great for developing skills that are also useful on the road. Drafting without surging, cornering at speed, and knowing how to sprint when it counts are all learnt best on the track. There is something about not having brakes and a freewheel that really focuses your mind. Probably the fear of dying. Also, track riding is a great spectator sport (bring the family) because they can see the whole event as it whips past them.
Track riding is on Friday next week, so book in your diary and get there by 7.00 am. Stay on for a cool drink and some food if you have time.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Black on black is now in lights
Sun rise is now about 6.30 am and sun set is about 6.20 pm, so guess what - you need lights on your bike if you plan to ride with the group at 6.00 in the morning. There is quite a choice, ranging from the $30-$40 simple led front lights, to those running over $200 (and up to $600!!!!).
The cheap front lights are fine if you just want people to see you from the front, and for slow 'I must get home soon' riding, but if you want to see what is on the road when doing 30 km/hr or more, you need more expensive and stronger lights.
There are some very good flashing back lights for about $30, so check out bikes on the morning ride and ask. If a car is going be a problem, it is the one that is coming from behind, so ditch that old generation flashing light and buy a good high intensity LED flasher.
And who is it that rides a black bike with no lights and wears black cycle clothing? Mr Stealth!
[UPDATE: I've been warned that the lights are now on, but there will be special noise baffles to mask the approach and whooshing noise at it goes past!]
The cheap front lights are fine if you just want people to see you from the front, and for slow 'I must get home soon' riding, but if you want to see what is on the road when doing 30 km/hr or more, you need more expensive and stronger lights.
There are some very good flashing back lights for about $30, so check out bikes on the morning ride and ask. If a car is going be a problem, it is the one that is coming from behind, so ditch that old generation flashing light and buy a good high intensity LED flasher.
And who is it that rides a black bike with no lights and wears black cycle clothing? Mr Stealth!
[UPDATE: I've been warned that the lights are now on, but there will be special noise baffles to mask the approach and whooshing noise at it goes past!]
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Coastal Clash
Had a good weekend at Lancelin for the Coastal Clash. Its good to get out of your pond and have a swim in the Ocean now and then. The event was well run, with about 8 discreet events over the weekend. To compete for the King of the Coast (or queen) title you had to do 5 events which they nominated. Saturday night was a criterium around a block in the centre of town. These blokes battled it out, with one bloke being knocked out every 2nd lap. It came down to the last two and they disappeared down the back straight on the last lap.... and never emerged. They pranged into each other, took a fair bit of bark off, and it was called a draw!
Sunday, was a 37km time trial, which was one of the nominated events for the king of the coast. A loop down to Ledge Point and return. Being a Wiese, and the participants setting off at 30 second intervals in alphabetical order, Sarah and I were next to last to start, and I swear to god, the sea breeze came in when they were up to the L's, and we ended up with headwind, whereas the A's got blown both ways. Thats my story anyway.
Sarah picked up a handy 3rd in the ladies for a bit of silverwear. I was very much an also ran, coming in 6th out of the blokes. Keep your eyes out for it next year. Also keep your eyes open for the Anaconda Adventure race entries opening in April. Google it for details.
Sunday, was a 37km time trial, which was one of the nominated events for the king of the coast. A loop down to Ledge Point and return. Being a Wiese, and the participants setting off at 30 second intervals in alphabetical order, Sarah and I were next to last to start, and I swear to god, the sea breeze came in when they were up to the L's, and we ended up with headwind, whereas the A's got blown both ways. Thats my story anyway.
Sarah picked up a handy 3rd in the ladies for a bit of silverwear. I was very much an also ran, coming in 6th out of the blokes. Keep your eyes out for it next year. Also keep your eyes open for the Anaconda Adventure race entries opening in April. Google it for details.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
It's a red one
I've just put down a deposit on a track bike, my sign of commitment to having a go on the track. Its an Apollo Record 2010 model, through Glen Parker cycles in Nedlands. I like to think they cut me a deal. They would do the 2011 model at the same price, which has a new frame with an aero cutaway on the down tube and a set of deep rim wheels, but they reckon the components aren't as good and convinced me to go for the old model. Pick it up next week.
Heading for Lancelin this weekend for the Coastal Clash which will include a bit of running, swimming, paddling and a 37km time trial on Sunday arvo on the bike. So I'll miss the weekends track session and long ride but should be back on deck the following weekend.
See you on the track, with new bike. Its a red one so it should be fast.....
Heading for Lancelin this weekend for the Coastal Clash which will include a bit of running, swimming, paddling and a 37km time trial on Sunday arvo on the bike. So I'll miss the weekends track session and long ride but should be back on deck the following weekend.
See you on the track, with new bike. Its a red one so it should be fast.....
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Sunday morning road ride - the double loop
The double loop viewed from one angle looks like an infinity sign - and a few hills on the West HIghbury Road had us thinking that this was appropriate. Trees on the roadside must have saved us from the strongest of the south easterly, and gave us another 15 km/hr as a tail wind on the Highbury to Narrogin Road home run.
Paul did most of the work at the front, and Peter was impressively strong. James was a surprise - he struggled a bit on the first loop, then got into his stride on the second loop and had no trouble at all. Marius is the dark horse - a grin on his face and "I'm right" and he was there with the group the whole way. Dennis is getting his fitness back after a rest from breaking his wrist, and only fell back a few times.
The ride was 88 km and took us a minute over 3 hours. Not bad for our group, on those hills and in that wind.
Craig emailed to say he couldn't ride - something about grappling with a CPR dummy and the dummy won - by hurting Craig's back. I leave the story to your imagination!
Paul did most of the work at the front, and Peter was impressively strong. James was a surprise - he struggled a bit on the first loop, then got into his stride on the second loop and had no trouble at all. Marius is the dark horse - a grin on his face and "I'm right" and he was there with the group the whole way. Dennis is getting his fitness back after a rest from breaking his wrist, and only fell back a few times.
The ride was 88 km and took us a minute over 3 hours. Not bad for our group, on those hills and in that wind.
Craig emailed to say he couldn't ride - something about grappling with a CPR dummy and the dummy won - by hurting Craig's back. I leave the story to your imagination!
Saturday night track ride
A few hardy souls turned up at the velodrome on Saturday night - just enough for a 15 lap race later in the evening, after a lot of warming up and a few sprints. Narrogin turned on a classic track racing night after a warm day - cold and windy! Even the bats had to work hard to catch the few moths strong enough to fight the wind under the lights (outdoor velodrome).
The youngsters (down to six years old) have a lot of fun on this track, and there were a few riders on the night that borrowed a bike and joined in, and a few that had just fixed their track bikes and were getting to know them again.
So remember to check the track calendar, and bring along the family to watch or have a go.
The youngsters (down to six years old) have a lot of fun on this track, and there were a few riders on the night that borrowed a bike and joined in, and a few that had just fixed their track bikes and were getting to know them again.
So remember to check the track calendar, and bring along the family to watch or have a go.
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Don't let your partner see you looking at this!
Do you drool over bike seats - never mind, you are not alone!
Have a look at these
Have a look at these
Paul's weekend message (edited for the blog)
Hi Guys,
7am Sunday morning for a steady 45 or 90km at the rec centre for Cuby circuit followed by Highbury circuit. If you want to do the second circuit only, I suggest waiting near the cemetery at about 8:25 as we should come through by 8:35.
Probably no 'through and off', just tempo riding.
Friday was a very low key / tempo ride for 15km and if you are new to riding Friday mornings are a good place to start – 6am at the rec centre.
Cheers
Paul(Dave comment: Paul's earlier message is open, about riding the short Cuballing circuit or Cuballing return to honour Jane's memory. All start together at 7.00 am as above)
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Adjusting those derailleurs - Online video tells you how
For some of you without the experience of adjusting front and rear derailleurs, these videos may help.
- Bicycle Maintenance: How To Adjust a Rear Derailleur
- How to Adjust a Front Derailleur (a bit slow to load so give it time)
The fast and the furious - and Trevor in the gravel
We had quite a few riders this morning, and decided - not quite sensibly as it turned out - to ride out on the 'tip road' (White Road). We had a moderate tail wind going out, and of course, a moderate head wind coming back - AND the sun rising in our faces.
The lead group was blasting along at about 40 km/hr, and then there were several groups turning back at 30 minutes out from Narrogin. The group that had Paul and Trevor in it were working well. Trevor, in his wicked shades, was leading, Paul was following close behind, and I was sitting in Paul's shade so that I could see the road. Unfortunately, Trevor couldn't see a thing with the sun in his eyes, and when the road started to turn, Trevor didn't! He started to crunch in the loose stone, then onto the gravel shoulder, then missed a white post and went all the way into the gutter. Fortunately, he knows how to handle a bike and managed to ride straight back onto the sealed road.
There will be a ride on Thursday morning at 6.00 pm from the rec centre as usual.
On Sunday, there will be a group doing a longer ride (80 + km), starting at 7.00 pm from the rec centre.
The lead group was blasting along at about 40 km/hr, and then there were several groups turning back at 30 minutes out from Narrogin. The group that had Paul and Trevor in it were working well. Trevor, in his wicked shades, was leading, Paul was following close behind, and I was sitting in Paul's shade so that I could see the road. Unfortunately, Trevor couldn't see a thing with the sun in his eyes, and when the road started to turn, Trevor didn't! He started to crunch in the loose stone, then onto the gravel shoulder, then missed a white post and went all the way into the gutter. Fortunately, he knows how to handle a bike and managed to ride straight back onto the sealed road.
There will be a ride on Thursday morning at 6.00 pm from the rec centre as usual.
On Sunday, there will be a group doing a longer ride (80 + km), starting at 7.00 pm from the rec centre.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Coffee
As a 4 year old Uncle Pete would feed me strong tea from the thermos, which kept getting stronger throughout the day, and sweetened with copious amounts of sugar, and I've been addicted to caffiene ever since. Dave claims the best coffee this side of Melbourne, and I understand their are some fair judges in his family. Should we finish a weekend ride at his place, or should we adopt a coffee shop, or do we have enough time invested already? When I ride in Dunsborough, the various shops are competing for the custom of the cycling groups with free coffees here and there.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Things most unexpected...
I skimped in this mornings ride a bit. While Dyso, Craig and Pete were out braving the hills and headwinds of the cuby circuit, I did a 35 km trip from the farm to town to meet the boys at the cemetery to join them for a bit of the highbury circuit. I tried for a quick 35 as my next cycling event is a 37km time trial as part of the Coastal Clash, a multisport event to be held at Lancelin in a fortnight. The easterly blowing in my face on the way to Highbury wasn't helpful so a bit hard to guage progress.
I got to the cemetery in good time and had time to chat to the Naturalist Club members who were there to pick up rubbish as part of a clean up Australia thingo. I told them I thought Naturalists were supposed to be picking up rubbish in the nude, but they said that was a slightly different club. Luckily the boys turned up and saved me from the full explaination.
We headed out Tarwonga rd until the Hay Sheds of sargeants, where I left them to it and headed on to the farm, leaving the boys to plough into the Highbury Headwinds which had doubled in strength since I did it an hour before. My ride was a lazy sixty, with the main group doing 90.
My justification was tennis later in the day. Good fortune smiled and th highbury tennis clubs best player drew me as a partner for the doubles championchip. He has strong shoulders and was able to carry me through undefeated, so I now have a tennis trophy to go alongside my ponyclub rosette from a fortnight ago (thats another story). Two most unlikely occurances
I got to the cemetery in good time and had time to chat to the Naturalist Club members who were there to pick up rubbish as part of a clean up Australia thingo. I told them I thought Naturalists were supposed to be picking up rubbish in the nude, but they said that was a slightly different club. Luckily the boys turned up and saved me from the full explaination.
We headed out Tarwonga rd until the Hay Sheds of sargeants, where I left them to it and headed on to the farm, leaving the boys to plough into the Highbury Headwinds which had doubled in strength since I did it an hour before. My ride was a lazy sixty, with the main group doing 90.
My justification was tennis later in the day. Good fortune smiled and th highbury tennis clubs best player drew me as a partner for the doubles championchip. He has strong shoulders and was able to carry me through undefeated, so I now have a tennis trophy to go alongside my ponyclub rosette from a fortnight ago (thats another story). Two most unlikely occurances
New to blogging? Try it out!
Hi Narrogin cyclists. I have invited more of you to be able to post on this blog, so have a go. Also, if you know I have missed someone that wants to be a part of this blog, tell me, and I'll add them. Only people that get invited can post.
As I said below, you need to have a Google account first, and this is quite safe and easy.
I tested out the new chain and chain rings by going to the airport, and met 'Marty' on his hybrid. Marty says that there are definitely a few people interested in a slow, social group of riders. And they would be interested in riding at about 5.00 pm on weekdays and about 4.00 pm on Sundays. If you know of anyone interested, start talking about it so that we can help the group start.
As I said below, you need to have a Google account first, and this is quite safe and easy.
I tested out the new chain and chain rings by going to the airport, and met 'Marty' on his hybrid. Marty says that there are definitely a few people interested in a slow, social group of riders. And they would be interested in riding at about 5.00 pm on weekdays and about 4.00 pm on Sundays. If you know of anyone interested, start talking about it so that we can help the group start.
Sometimes you need to stop and sharpen the chainsaw
At least, that is the story I use when 'just do it' means that the chainsaw is blunt, or in this case, the bike chain was stretched, the chain rings looked like shuriken (throwing stars), and the back tyre had so many nicks and was so worn that I was expecting it to blow at any moment.
So I did not go for that ride, and changed the tyre, changed both chain rings, fitted a new chain and checked the bottom bracket (fine - sealed bearings in those things are fantastic), and 'oiled' the cleats. And then made the best coffee this side of Melbourne (who's to argue?).
I really should grease the headsets on all three bikes,, but that will have to wait for another weekend.
Well, how about the ones that did the ride getting on here and telling us about it?
So I did not go for that ride, and changed the tyre, changed both chain rings, fitted a new chain and checked the bottom bracket (fine - sealed bearings in those things are fantastic), and 'oiled' the cleats. And then made the best coffee this side of Melbourne (who's to argue?).
I really should grease the headsets on all three bikes,, but that will have to wait for another weekend.
Well, how about the ones that did the ride getting on here and telling us about it?
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Sunday ride - and Friday reminder. Paul's message
7am tomorrow morning for a steady 45 or 90km. Probably no “through and off” just tempo riding.
7am at the rec centre for Cuby circuit followed by Highbury circuit. If you want to do the second circuit only I suggest waiting near the cemetery at about 8:25 as we should come through by 8:30.
Yesterday was a very low key / tempo ride for 15km and if you are new to riding Friday mornings are a good place to start – 6am at the rec centre.
Cheers
Paul
Track cycling calendar 2011
The 'Narrogin Amateur Cycling Club' has published its track calendar, for any of you or your friends that are interested. The track opens at 7.00 pm for a 7.30 pm start (you do warm-up laps in that period).
Note: The track has not had lines marked till now, but there should be lines next Sat (19 Mar) and that means that races can be held!
Road bikes can ride on the track, but not race, and not with track bikes. Quite a few 'spare' track bikes have been brought along by track regulars, and you may be lucky enough to try one. Bring your own shoes and pedals.
Tea, coffee and cool drinks are available to buy from the track club room kitchen, and light food is available most nights.
Note: The track has not had lines marked till now, but there should be lines next Sat (19 Mar) and that means that races can be held!
Road bikes can ride on the track, but not race, and not with track bikes. Quite a few 'spare' track bikes have been brought along by track regulars, and you may be lucky enough to try one. Bring your own shoes and pedals.
Tea, coffee and cool drinks are available to buy from the track club room kitchen, and light food is available most nights.
| Date | Day | Comments |
| 19 Mar | Sat | . |
| 26 Mar | Sat | . |
| 2 Apr | Sat | . |
| 8 Apr | Fri | . |
| 16 Apr | Sat | . |
| 21 Apr | Thu | Easter weekend |
| 29 Apr | Fri | . |
| 7 May | Sat | Last night of the track season |
Friday, March 11, 2011
Social riders want a go too!
A few friends and colleagues have asked about starting a group for those that want to talk, ride and not bust a gut. If you know of more people like this find out if they would be interested in any of these options:
- Afternoon social rides during the week at 5.00 pm starting from the Narrogin Recreation Centre car park. Rides of an hour nor less; slow; keeping a group together (no racing!)
- Sunday afternoon about 4.00 pm. Same conditions as above.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Online cycling shopping
There are some things you really need to buy from a bricks and mortar shop (or whatever they are made of), but there are some very good deals online for those of you prepared to buy online.
The ones used by local riders include:
The ones used by local riders include:
- Chain Reaction Cycles (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/). Very good range, but not always in stock. Very useful rating from buyer feedback. Based in the UK. Prices of most things are very competitive landed in Australia.
- Wiggles (http://www.wiggle.co.uk/). Good range, good feedback rating system. Based in the UK. Prices of most things are very competitive landed in Australia.
- Cell Bikes (http://www.cellbikes.com.au/). Range is a bit limited. Feedback is very limited on most items. Based in Australia. Their discounts and low price specials are very good value. Their Cell Bike brand bike clothing is as cheap as you will get anywhere. I have bought a few tops ($20-24) and bib-knicks ($39?) from them recently, and they are quite good.
- SBS Cycling Central Shop (http://cyclingcentralshop.com.au/index.html). Has a wonderful range of retro and other design cycling gear (especially the tops). Quality is good. Prices are high. There is no feedback rating. Based in Australia.
Hills hoist roundtrip!
To carry on the pun, I was hung out to dry trying to keep up with the fast group this morning, racing around the 'short' Cuballing loop (about 30 km?)., which has quite a few small hills, up which I needed hoisting (sorry about that).
Congratulations Tim on your blogging and track ride. I'm not sure about you being an 'old dog' though!
We definitely have enough riders for two morning ride groups now, leaving at the same time (6 am from the Recreation Centre parking lot). For the beginners, this may look like a bit of a race, but they can now ride as a group and take it easier, while the faster riders get stretched. Tom, Chris and Paul set the pace, with Craig, Peter and Chris P mixing it with them, and me floating off the back. Chris P is just getting back his full fitness after suffering knee pains, then getting his bike adjusted to solve the problem.
Next ride is at 6 am on Thu morning (please turn up before 6, because we leave at 6), same place. Think about the group you want, and you can set your own direction.
A note: Sunrise is now after 6.00 am, so it is a good idea to get back flashing lights and a front light fitted. In winter, you will need a good front light for most of the ride.
Congratulations Tim on your blogging and track ride. I'm not sure about you being an 'old dog' though!
We definitely have enough riders for two morning ride groups now, leaving at the same time (6 am from the Recreation Centre parking lot). For the beginners, this may look like a bit of a race, but they can now ride as a group and take it easier, while the faster riders get stretched. Tom, Chris and Paul set the pace, with Craig, Peter and Chris P mixing it with them, and me floating off the back. Chris P is just getting back his full fitness after suffering knee pains, then getting his bike adjusted to solve the problem.
Next ride is at 6 am on Thu morning (please turn up before 6, because we leave at 6), same place. Think about the group you want, and you can set your own direction.
A note: Sunrise is now after 6.00 am, so it is a good idea to get back flashing lights and a front light fitted. In winter, you will need a good front light for most of the ride.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Old dog, new tricks
Two firsts in a weekend. Haven't been able to claim that since I was a young fella. My first blog post and first stint at the velodrome.
A gentle circuit on the road bike, with Craig and I slowly increasing speed on the corners, getting a feel for the track, then onto a loaner fixed gear bike. Call me slow, but while I knew there was to be no brakes and no gears, I swear no one had really drummed in the no free wheeling bit. I got bumped by the pedals a few times, but less frequently as the night went on. I have some endurance, but not the power that some of the veterans have for a flat out sprint. The velodrome riding should be good to develop some power out of turns on the road, say for a dumbleyoung round the streets course or similar.
Really good fun.
Already searching the quokka for an old track bike, but there are very servicable bikes to borrow to have a go. Next time I will take a pair of safety glasses to keep some bugs out of the eyes.
Have a go!
A gentle circuit on the road bike, with Craig and I slowly increasing speed on the corners, getting a feel for the track, then onto a loaner fixed gear bike. Call me slow, but while I knew there was to be no brakes and no gears, I swear no one had really drummed in the no free wheeling bit. I got bumped by the pedals a few times, but less frequently as the night went on. I have some endurance, but not the power that some of the veterans have for a flat out sprint. The velodrome riding should be good to develop some power out of turns on the road, say for a dumbleyoung round the streets course or similar.
Really good fun.
Already searching the quokka for an old track bike, but there are very servicable bikes to borrow to have a go. Next time I will take a pair of safety glasses to keep some bugs out of the eyes.
Have a go!
3 for Wagin and back
Craig, Dennis and Dave (me) took off for Wagin (50 km down the road) for a coffee yesterday. If that sounds like a long way to go for a coffee, it may sound better to say that this is to get prepared for cycling about 130 km a day for 6 days in April. On that trip though, there will be beer and wine in the evenings too!
We aimed to average about 28 km/hr, and did a bit better than that, largely (no pun intended Craig) with Craig at the front leading us along, and occasionally stretching the rubber band. Dennis is just getting back to riding on the road, after breaking his wrist in an earlier cycling accident. We had a head wind going south, and a cross-tail wind coming home.
More long rides will be organised over the next month - keep in touch.
We aimed to average about 28 km/hr, and did a bit better than that, largely (no pun intended Craig) with Craig at the front leading us along, and occasionally stretching the rubber band. Dennis is just getting back to riding on the road, after breaking his wrist in an earlier cycling accident. We had a head wind going south, and a cross-tail wind coming home.
More long rides will be organised over the next month - keep in touch.
Velodrome now open!
Last Friday, a few of the old-time track riders and a few new to the game turned up at the Narrogin outdoor velodrome to ride under lights.
What a buzz - insects around the lights and bats eating those insects provided some distraction from the adrenaline pumping when new riders forgot to pedal, and realised they had no brakes! No accidents and lots of grins at the end.
Road riders from a casual group borrowed bikes for their first ever ride on 'fixies'. Craig was a bit wobbly to start with, and gradually got the hang of cornering with speed. He only got bumped by the pedals a few times! Tim was straight at home, and showed his usual power and speed in circuits of the 310 m track.
The track was recently resurfaced with hotmix, and is as smooth as it has been for many years. Lines are still to be added, so there was only one group pursuit on the night. More competition will be organised when the lines are added, and new riders get to know the etiquette and skills in track riding.
The next rides will be on Fri 11 March, then Saturday 19, 26 March and 2 April.
What a buzz - insects around the lights and bats eating those insects provided some distraction from the adrenaline pumping when new riders forgot to pedal, and realised they had no brakes! No accidents and lots of grins at the end.
Road riders from a casual group borrowed bikes for their first ever ride on 'fixies'. Craig was a bit wobbly to start with, and gradually got the hang of cornering with speed. He only got bumped by the pedals a few times! Tim was straight at home, and showed his usual power and speed in circuits of the 310 m track.
The track was recently resurfaced with hotmix, and is as smooth as it has been for many years. Lines are still to be added, so there was only one group pursuit on the night. More competition will be organised when the lines are added, and new riders get to know the etiquette and skills in track riding.
The next rides will be on Fri 11 March, then Saturday 19, 26 March and 2 April.
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