Mr. Richard "Dick" Moyle

I'd taken the time to post something on facebook about today being exactly one year to the day since the impetus for the blog started.  Riding into work this morning (on what was possible the best morning ever) I scrolled through the mental files of all that had happened; faces seen, conversations, places I'd slept, etc, etc, etc.  By the time I got to Starbucks, the thought came to me to check up on Mr. Dick Moyle, of the Arrey, RV.  Of all the amazingly unexpected conversations I had during the trek out to San Diego, and points beyond, the 3 hour conversation with Dick stands as the most interesting - maybe the most interesting of my life.

What started out as a quick comment from me about aliens (New Mexico...) grew into a conversation marked with historical points of interesting second only to your favorite PBS special, and conspircies theories strong enough to get Oliver Stone's attention.

Beyond all that, the graceousness of Dick was ripe with humor:

"You can camp there... (plot of sand, covered in large stones, few broken bottles, some dead cacti, oh, 'and gold...'), or you can stay there (the club house to his RV park.)"


The club house was really his second apartment, complete with a TV, fold out couch, and stocked refrigerator.  I was left alone and told, ordered rather, to eat everything in the frig as Dick was concerned about my trek up and over Emory Pass the next day.

I learned this morning after going to the Arrey RV park website that Dick had passed away on December 3, 2009, just a few weeks after I had the pleasure of making his acquaintance.

The html is a little off with blogger, but I've embedded a nice write about Dick's life, his family and about his eventual move to New Mexico.  (The pictures referenced are out of sequence:  Dick is sitting down, blue hat, pipe in his mouth, etc.)

"I guess that's his deal..."

The one side of the phone conversation I heard went something like this:

"Yeah-up, yeah-up, I got a guy here... he's on a bike..."

"Yeah-up.., naw, naw... said he's rye'in up the coast..."

"Naw...wants to camp out down here at the park..."

"Yeah-up, well, I guess that's his deal..."

I witnessed this exchange - between a local sheriff and his Super - just after I crossed into the South Carolina over 3 months ago. What resulted was a place to camp and a recurring theme for me over the last few weeks.

I didn't realize until I thought of the quote (after repeating the story to someone) how much in need I was, and maybe am, of some confirmation of my "deal."  For me to labeled myself base on something bicycle related as of July 9, 2010 would mean holding onto something now over a few months old - not spoiled, just "back there..."; in the interest of self-preservation, too, it's probably not the best use of my time.  Though - this confirmation - it's a comfort that I didn't know I was without.

It's not stretch to say we all strive for someone to label us appropriately, which would be another way of saying how nice it is to be understood.

"Baby steps to the door, baby steps to..."

In the spirit,,.

of volunteerism - I was tempted to work in a Rush reference - you know, the Canadian band, rock/roll...  radio, etc...

So anyway, in the spirit of volunteerism, I donned a dirty shop apron ("shapron..") for a few hours and set to work on bicycles. Since I'm without my own trusty steed and full of vim and vigor, I figured this was a worthwhile way to spend the afternoon.  Much like a lot of cities these days (yes, even Atlanta) Ottawa is complete with an outstanding community outreach/bi-recycle organization (ah, co-op). And, in so doing, are keeping with the true(er) definition of going green e.g. riding a bike that comes to you second hand. If it's raining where you are, you can read all about the environmental impact of bicycle manufacturing.

One thing that I realized while I was there is that these type of places usually serve as your best in-town vintage bike shop.  Which means that when your local neo-plastic trend-setting bike shop (carbon fiber is evil) turns up their nose at anything relating to steel (which, ah, is real) you have an outlet.  Granted, you might need to dig through a large plastic bin to find the compensator spring for the Sturmey-Archer three speed hub tagged to the bike your grandfather left you; but, hey, the price will be right, and here's the best part - you'll have to install it yourself.

Awesome experience and one I would highly recommend.  And, if you're looking for that perfect "commuter" bruiser bike, no better place to visit.

Finally, remember that you have not lived until you've "fine-tuned" a derailleur (I'm on a mission to convert all bikes to single-speed) that's spent its last few months in the rain - so fun.

j

Listen, you ought-to-a... (Ottawa)

Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race.
H. G. Wells

My hostess with the mostest is without a television.  Perfect for me; even better that this means large amounts of time listening to Canada's public radio station.

At the moment, I'm listening to a program highlighting, celebrating (otherwise boiling) over about Montreal's bicycle lifestyle.  (The program in question is almost exactly the same as the NPR's Prairie Home Companion (no Carl Castle, but close...) )

"The best bike city on the Continent."

Seems the moral sin of envy marks all other cities guilty around Canada.  Ottawa, for all its merits, is no slouch at all.  No shortage of bike lanes, racks and citizens on bikes.  Though, as it was explained, Montreal goes over and above in an effort to prove that bikes exist, and to exist here, you need a bike.  Some stand as heroes of the city's movement having gone it alone and painted their own bike lanes on the city streets.  Nice thought, really.

All this is a nice way of saying that I'm feeling withdraws from not having my bike with me - T-1 or pink and yellow Centurion.

If you have a bike, ride an extra mile for me.

Short on money, long on time...

As of yesterday, I've spent a solid one week in the grand(e) city of Ottawa.  And, all while forcing myself to remember even half of what was uttered my way in French classes (elementary, high school and college), the time thus far has been outstanding.  Occasionally, I find myself thinking of John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson's discussion of the differences between the U.S. and Europe:

"It's the little differences. A
lotta the same shit we got here,
they got there, but there they're a
little different..."

Actually, there really aren't that many differences, of course - except, maybe, that William Shante was born here and not in the states. 

I was working on a list of my own entitled "Yes you Ca(nadia)n" highlighting some of things noteworthy about our brothers and sisters to the north.  In an effort to keep the list as fresh as possible, I had to adjust my scope to include our beaver brother and sisters to the north.  "Yes you Ca(nadia)n and we can see that you do from outerspace..."  Funny that at the age of 34 I've finally opted to travel north of the upstate New York means that the majority of what I know, now, about Canada most everyone else has known for, forever.

One major- to-be-celebrated-give-them-a-hand-and-a-fresh-bottle-of-skinner-beer-achievement would be the amount of bicyclist all over the city. Being here without a bike is like chosing not to bring along my bladder - seriously. I may have to change that as there's an extended, weekend 185k ride set for June 5.

Bloom where you are...

"If you're not failing regularly, you're not experimenting hard enough..."

I don't know who said it as I was listening to the radio with one ear, and the sound of the keyboard (backspace key) with the other.  It made me realize, more to the point I guess, how much I loathe the special section of the bookstore classified as "self-help."

This is a nice way of reference the fact that I've continually visited the bookstore for two reasons; one, to see if there's a book on fear and loathing in Canada; or two, if there's room on the self for such a book. 

Yes you CA(nadia)N

My hostess (with the mostess) lives without a tv which means a good bit of time spent with the CBC - Canada's public radio station.  At the moment, there's a program on about the room - as in the bathroom.  Very open-minded take on what could happen, should happen and does happen in the bathrooms.

Seems Canadians are particular creative when it comes to taking some time out.

If you're a Canadin beaver, holy, we can see from a plane that you most certain can do.  This flew completely under my radar, but somehow I forgot that Capt'n Kirk was Canadian.  Obviously, there's a joke there about "where else would he have been born..."

I too forgot that Britian's favorite special agent, Austin Powers, is from Canada.

The Greyhound get-around

Sure, yes, cheap way to travel, but hot-damn, it's become something of an obsession.  Way back in San Fransisco I first ventured on a bus because, for one thing, there was a storm that was ripping through the mid-west; the thought of sitting in an airport for hours on end made no sense.  And, two, who doesn't feel the need to reward (punish) themselves from time to time?

...gathers no moss

If I took the time to list the specific events of the last several weeks, I'd have to force myself to reread them.

bike trip ends, bus ticket purchased, promises made about another option, time spent waiting for other option to come about, other option never pans out, stress sets in, bus tickets again purchased, 2 days in Virginia Beach, bus tickets purchased 2 days in Harper's Ferry, bus tickets purchaes, hours in Cleveland, hours in Buffalo, passport reviewed, and finally, I arrived in Canada - Ottawa to be exact.


My bicycle touring dream came to screeching halt some time after my arrival into Virginia. I spent a fair amount of time along the Outer Banks, considering calling it quits anyway and living as long as possible there.  The coast line is very much advantagous to feelings of "this might very well be it..."   Still, though, I pushed on and into Virginia.

Immediately after crossing the Virginia state line, my bike began to have SEVERE issues - bottom bracket issues to be exact. The problems started as a super loose bearing system, to grinding metal on metal, to no pedaling at all.  By this time, I made it to the largest, closest town, Suffolk, where there is a super nice bike shop.  The bike shop was almost perfect, but the repair itself presented what I always knew loomed in the distance should I suffer a mechanical issue; namely, that my bike is well past its prime (well, the components on it), and anything that broke couldn't be repaired, but rather, would have to be replaced.  Such was the case with my entire crank system.  Yes, Shimano still makes a compatible updated bottom bracket system, but no, not every shop in the country sells it, or has access to order it.  In this case I was left with the realization that I'd have to replace cranks and all - to the tune of some $250 to $300.00.  I was doing this on the cheap, which was good, so long as the most pressing concern was food/lodging.  If in September I factored in bicycle repairs, it's fair to say the whole thing might not have happened at all.  Still, I left anyway...

I realized a few hours into my first bus trip out of Virginia that the original  ride from Atlanta to San Diego back in September (and points north) was really something truly amazing if for no other reason that at any turn the whole thing could have come to a complete stop (it was very close in Florida) at anytime.  And, too, that it may have been a little much to take the strength I received from that trip and try to have another go at it.  I was afraid, too, in Virginia, that I had spoiled the amazing feeling of the first trip by pushing too hard and wanting too much.  Not sure yet where I stand with that - better to have tried, and come of short, than to never have tried at all I guess.  Or, it's better to travel than arrive.*

I've decided to begin using a word to describe myself - not a real word exactly, but one that fits

Transportationist.

And, since part of this suggest one who is also an opportunist, I'm here, in Canada, with the expectation of take advantage of an opportunity that might be here, might not.  While I've never been to Canada before, I consider myself over-seasoned (ha) when it comes to cross-country bus travel.

Anyway, Canada makes as much sense as Georgia, which in turn made less sense that spending time in Virginia.

j


* Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.

Hopefully

by this afternoon I should see the Virginia state sign. To say the least, I feel like I've seen North Carolina. The ride along the coast, though extremely windy at times, was better than I could expected. Given the time of year, the mad tourist rush has yet to take shape, and yet the local businesses are open in preparation of what's to come.

It's been a long almost 2 weeks to the day - sunshine, sunburn, on and on. As such, it will be nice to start the journey west here in the next few days.

The quest

Since leaving last Tuesday I've been searching almost at every turn for the recurrence of the spirtual lift - that which got me up and over Hill Country Texas. The decision to make my way back across the country came with the expectation that I could somehow repeat or recreate the feeling that came over me (and stay with me) from Texas though to San Diego.

The first week, while good, was tedious - the weather, the bugs, the sense of lonliness, etc. On top of that, being overcome by "maybe this isn't the right thing..." for large portion of the day made pedaling even on the flattest of terrain extremely difficult.

Two days ago I came very much into my own. I'm not sure why, really - a sound night sleep, finally, decent meals, who knows. For whatever reason, the sense of calm I've been searching for has arrived. There's little reason to suppose that any of this right now should make sense - it doesn't. Yet the conversations had the last two days along have supplied me with energy - spiritual, emotional - to try again today.

A lot of pictures, few that capture my attitude at this point, or what I'm seeing; when I get to a computer that will allow for a usb cable, I'll upload some.


j

Newport, North Carolina

View Larger Map

Today has been spent riding along the coast, then away, then back to. That is due in large part to the fact that Camp Le Juene does not allow bicycles/or non military traffic through the base. As such, the ride winds around and around. Only about about 4 hours of pedaling am I back to the water.

Tomorrow morning, if everything goes as planned, I'll take the ferry over to The Outer Banks proper. Should really good; the ferry ride over is about 2 and half hours long, then from there is pretty much no mans land, with a few lighthouses.

According to the ACA mileage I'm about 250 miles from Richmond. I realized, in passing yesterday, that I won't have to into Richmond, or even through it to get over to Yorktown, VA. That was very very good news.


j

The Carolina Coast

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It seemed especially challenging with the heat to make the great exit from South Carolina. Much of that too was due in part to the steady increase in bugs. Strange, too, as soon as I made the crossing into North Carolina, the weather changed, and so did the bug situation.

To be now, officially, on the Atlantic Coast feels so good. Also, for the first time since probably San Diego, I felt a true tailwind. The ride leaving the ferry on Fort Fischer en route to Carolina Beach was probably one of the best I've ever had. The tailwind almost made it feel like I had another gear.

In roughly 60 miles, I'll begin making the trek out along the Carolina Coast to Cape Hatteras. I keep hearing that the weather is going to continue to be nice, that would good.



j

Bug capital of the world

The last few days have been outstanding. While the weather has been blazing hot for the better part of each day, the roads throughout South Carolina are outstanding. On top of that, the drivers are more than accommodating.

I am about 30 miles or so from the border of North Carolina, having riding east, then west, then east en route north to the coast. So many small towns that they seem to run together.

I was treated on two occasions to a fine meal - one prepared by a family, the other by a fellow cyclist while at Waffle house, so all is good.

Funny store:

I stopped at a rough and tumble biker bar in the middle of nowhere South Carolina, after someone told me they are doubled as a country store. So, anyway, I went in with the hopes of finding an apple, or some kind of fruit, something. While they didn't have apples, they had eggs - as in hard boiled eggs. Seems they boiled them for Eastern, which lead me to think about how hilarious it would have been to walk into the bar and see dudes in leather, sideburns, and chaps painting Easter eggs. Also, old man Jim at the bar share with me a story about a guy he saw a few years back walking with a large crucifix on his back. He'd been walking from FL with people giving him money, etc. Well, the local cop decided to stop and check up with this guy; as it turns out, he was carrying $3 million in cocaine.

Anyway

Some photos:





that's all for now,

j

The State of Georgia

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is VERY large.

And while being very spread out further east, it's not exactly flat either.  I keep thinking that at some point the mountainous - hilly sections will flatten (closer to the coast, it seems.)

Thought I'd mention too, something about the bicycle route option on google.map, for anyone convinced that it's the "second coming..."  You'd be correct, as for the "second" part, since it requires a trek up and back down the same roads in order to find your way.  On top of that, some roads either don't exist, or are completely made up.  I know it's beta, which I guess is a get out of jail free card, but just be very cautious.

On a more positive note, if anyone is interested in taking a bike ride south east of the Atlanta Area, I would highly recommend a ride down State Road 57 - wow.  Newly paved, nice shoulders, beautiful landscape.  Also, at about 30 miles southeast of the city you begin to see "share the road" signs - so all is good.

Hopefully, by this time tomorrow, I can begin my formal ride on the ACA map(s) to Yorktown.

j

The day before

is never as fun as the day after - sometimes, at least.

And, since I'm struggling to read a calendar correctly, the concept of "days" is loosely defined.

So, today is the 29th, which makes six months to the day since leaving for the west coast.  I'm leaving officially tomorrow, which will be the same day that I left last time, so it's all terribly confusing.

I've never been southeast of Atlanta - either by car or bike.  According to the limited photos on google.maps it looks like farm country.  I need to get from Atlanta to Statesboro, (which is kind of the opposite direction) where the Adventure Cycling maps will then take over as I begin the trek north, and then west.

If nothing else, the weather the next few days should be outstanding.

Calendars

So, yeah, I need to learn to read one.

Banana King 2.0

March 29, 2009 will should represent just that.

On that date I am setting out on another bike ride, with the intention of finally seeing the state of Oregon.  Rather than take a plane to west coast and ride the remaining miles left over from my last trip, I've decided to start from beginning by leaving, again from GA; then ride to VA, and then out to Oregon.  As far as I can tell, everything is in order for the trip, short of a few last minute details (very difficult to find a waterproof journal anywhere in Atlanta.)

Go get yourself Sun

If you can't find any over the next few days...


I happened to be in Barnes and Noble today as a bit of break, and notice that NatGeo Traveler has two separate articles about bicycles; one a piece on extended travel or touring, the other listing the most bicycle friendly cities in the country.  Both are really good pieces - for Tuesday when it rains.

And, with the sun, comes countless reminders that March is PACKED full of rides to somewhere - and back, if need be.

In 17 days, the Ride to the Capital will take place. I didn't realize it before today, but there are actually two rides - one leaving Roswell en route to the Capital, and the other coming out of Decatur.  This is very good news, since March 23 is on a Tuesday - at the very least, it should be easy to coordinate, should you plan to attend.

Also, coming up here shortly, will be Atlanta Bicycle Coalition's "singles ride."  Catchy title for a bicycle-bar-crawl of sorts.  So, if you're single, and have a bike - even one that's not "single" have a look at the following.

j

Hope Springs Eternal

The only thing you can do is dream about warmer weather.  There may be some full-proof way of ensure nicer temperatures, but that would likely require a change of address.

And while the weather is more down that up, you can always update your calendar for Spring.

Two big events are planned for March and April, respectively.  On March 23, 2010, you'll have the opportunity to show support for House Bill 988 - 3 foot safe passing bill.  I just looked at the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition's website and noticed that the bill, as of February 19th, passed by committee.  You can have a look here at the specifics of what has been passed.  While the provisions of the bill are in order, the best way to show support going forward would be to attend the ride.

And on Sunday, April 25, ABC is having its full-on 2010 Beltline Bike Tour.  If you live in town, this is a must do.  The plan is to have three different rides depending on your interests.  It's all very well laid out here.  It's going to be fun, and by that point, the weather will have made the turn - hopefully.

________

Terrible one has made the turn, as well.  A new day dawns I guess when something from the odysseybmx website shows up on the T-1 website.  Odyssey I can handle - should it switch to something lame like Eastern, it'll be time to call it quits.

Anyway, this is a super good video.  The ramp in question is much bigger than it appears; I gather the dimensions are similar to that of the t-1 ramp.  

If you didn't

you should have; no reason not to have been outside.

I've given up thinking about the weather in Atlanta.  6 days ago, snow put the city to an, almost, stand-still. Today, wow - 67 degrees and limited cloud cover.  It would be worth obsessing about today, if not for the perfect day yesterday.

The last few weeks I've made a concerted effort to put in at least 30 miles a day, despite the weather and traffic, convinced that I may very well be the only one outside the city that feels the need to pedal.  Seems weather is really only the deciding factor in who chooses to brave the worst (maybe) drivers in the nation.  I haven't seen this many people on bicycles since California (or, to be fair, the Atlanta Bicycle Coalition's ride through downtown.)  Better to say the most people on bicycle this far removed from Downtown.  I even had someone scream across the street about my lack of helmet - wow.

_______

The spirit of volunteerism was in FULL force yesterday.  The Beltline Assoc.'s very own Angle Luis Poventud helped organize what I referred to the other day - Beltline Public Art Party.  My alarm decided not to go off as expected yesterday morning, so I missed it (really lame excuse, as I had planned all week to take it in...)  There are a ton of photos laying here and there online - suffice it to say that a large, well organized group of volunteers painted some 200+ signs over the better part of about 8 hours.  Nice way to spend a Saturday.

I also realized yesterday that I may well be the only person on the planet paying for blog space.  Ever since the "glory" days of Atlantabmx.com, I've been paying for web-space for no other reason other than it went completely under my radar.  Well, no more.  Someone, surprisingly enough, snagged thebananaking.blogspot.com, so I've had to go with a hybrid version.  And, actually, the format offered by blogger.com seems to mirror almost exactly that of wordpress, so seems good.

Super amazing weekend.

j

Wow Time

I’ve been guilty of having a fair amount of wow time here in the last several months.  Lucky too, but guilty maybe more as I see things around me since incorporating more sitting that leads me to think of more wow time.  That makes no sense.

Truth be told, before leaving for California back in September, I spent a fair amount of time thinking over how to carrying my Terrible-One, Sweet Fuck All, Garrett Byrnes Pro-Model, version 3.0.1.2 – standard issue (originally), British Racing Green.

At the very least, I figured I could score some new stickers for it when passing through Austin – priorities.  Attaching a rack, though, to an ancient 80’s road bike was trouble enough before leaving (and even more so in Pensacola, FL) so I figured it best to not press the issue.

Now that I’m back temporarily with some down time, DIY’s have become an obsession – just like the song.  Seriously, what better way to spend time then to create something, from something else, that you realized only seconds ago you might almost use once in a while.

I’ve now decided – just about 30 seconds ago – to work out a way to attach said T-1.
Like this, here:

I’m a huge fan of Rob Tibbs, have been since his days with Kink Bikes (for what it’s worth, Robb-ert may very well have been the first to do a can-can foojam that kids are taking to the WEDGE!!!! – he did it on an over-vert extension; see Cheap-Thrills.)

So, lets see here: you give the boy some pallets, and he’ll give you a 900; you give him an (old, so it seems) road-bike, and a Gray Version 1.0 Sunday frame (with the stickers still on it…) and he’ll give you MILES, bro, miles.

Hopefully leastmost will put up something about how they went go with bike; maybe.

Amazing weather starting today, cannnnnnooooooootttttttt wait to go, go.
j

It won't be long now

I just heard a bird chirp today, which means, I hope, that Spring is just right there – almost, soon.  The weather this weekend is supposed to be really nice, somewhere over 55 degrees, so a heat wave.  This very good, as the Beltline organization is having a Signing the BeltLine, Art Painting Party.


The bold text means it’s official.  As advertised through facebook, they welcome the artistic talents of everyone – even if you’re the only one who thinks you have talent.  Tall order for this year, some 216 1′X4′ pieces to be painted, so your hands, and brushes, and paint are very much in need.


Go get yourself some


Also, as is fitting in Atlanta, I found news of a skatepark that is set to open through ESPN.com (actually, that’s a cheap shot, there’s reputable website for all things BMX-Atlanta, run by someone who actually rides – novel idea); away, it’s coming sometime in late spring – I think May.  When I say Atlanta, that’s downtown Atlanta – not “Atlanta-Metro area i.e. Duncan Creek.”  Called the 40 yard, it’s to house some foam here and there for those interested in flairs, or whatever is running the trend these days; hopefully pedaling and trails will catch on, again.


With the weather in Atlanta come Spring, and the current lot of public skateparks already in the ground outside the city, plus the soon-to-be poured park at/or around the foundation-location, riding inside is going to be a tough sell.  The park calls itself bike-friendly, so who knows.  I wish whoever is running the park all the luck.  It’s certainly in a good location, so that should help.


Nice weather, go ride your bike


j

Can't Win

One of my biggest, longest running pet peeves is changing a wasted tube on/under a bike tire.  I was thinking about it yesterday and realized that before switching to the world of 700cx25mm, I probably went YEARS between tubes.  Usually I’d just change them when switching out tires.  Granted the average bmx tire is designed to take a fair amount of abuse while looking “cool” the entire time, but I still can’t seem to win with road bike tires.

About 2 months ago now I switched from my beyond worn out Schwalbes to the Panacer variety touring tire.  Exactly what makes one tire touring and the other just a road tire is up for debate, but usually (hopefully) the tire’s “flat-resistance” is (should be/BETTER be) through the roof.  Most tire company use creative marketing, while Schwalbe makes a real tire.

While I went through a very love-hate relationship with the schwalbes, once they were on, you were good – some 1300 miles without a flat, and through New Mexico and Arizona no less.  The “other” tires, man, they suck – they’re terrible.

I mentioned the other day about Angel saving my ass on the bike ride this past Sunday.  He was good enough to front me a tube, which, within 16 hours, went completely flat.  The tire had a nice, thin, stiff thorn which cut right through the heart of its anti-flat technology, and of course right into the tube.  In the better part of 2 months, I’ve removed more foreign objects from this tire that it’s not worth mentioning anymore.

So, a trip today to the bike shop, and likely a trip back in time to Schwalbe land.  Their tires really are bomb proof, but heavy and slow-ish given the 2 inch thick casing that surrounds them; also they’re impossible to find anywhere local without waiting a week for a shop to order them.

So, nice.
____

Most bmx kids have probably seen this video since I imagine it’s been posted a 1000 places.  Since my bmx-internet time is held only to the terribleone website, that’s where I found it,

Etnies Backyard bbq – t-1 ramp, found on terribleone.com/and etnies.com

Watching that Joe Rich guy ride his own ramp never gets old; Morgan Wade sighting too.

j

One belts, Two Flats

Well, there’s a price for everything I guess.  Suffering through two flat tires on Sunday was certainly a good price to pay for knowledge provided.

A lot of the information these days about the beltline – Atlanta’s – can be found on their website; but, honestly, it wasn’t until taking a few hours by bicycle to ride around it that I realize how amazing the final project will be.

For anyone curious about the route, the current development and future plans, I would recommend spending some time looking over the Beltline’s website.  If live OTP, and are in need of something a little more “in person”, t I’d suggest taking a trip down North Ave (@ or near the Masquerade); the scale of the project there is very much on par with the rest of the route.

For a more intimate feel of the route, the Beltline Partnership conducts a bus tour.  And, coming up on April 25, Atlanta Bicycle Coalition will be conducting a bicycle tour.  Bring your bike, ride the belt.

Thanks Kyle, Ali, and ABC for organizing the ride; and Angel for the tube and for being a wealth of information.  Such a good day.

Cheers,
j

Greatly Divided

With the weather the last few days and with my current amount of free time, I’ve been left with little to do but search for the end of internet.  I have yet to find it, but I did stumble onto something that has sparked a LARGE (huge, festering, almost burning) interest.

When I was in New Mexico (Silver City) a few months back I heard stories of people riding from Canada into Mexico along what’s known as the Great Divide – well, trail.  It’s far from a collection of nicely paved roads – more like a few paved spots, together with a lot more dirt/single track.  Actually, it’s probably close to the equivalent of the Appalachian trail come pedal-power; consecutive days without anything other than wildlife and mom-nature, sounds awesome.  ACA provides maps of the route, much like they do the Southern Tier, Pacific/Eastern Coast, etc.

But,

Even better than any collection of maps is the race along said route from Canada to Mexico – schedule this year for June 18, 2010.  Nothing formal in terms of prizes, tv coverage or whatever,  just normal, ego-exploding bragging rights.

It’s a bit too early to confirm my plans concretely, but it is my new, New Year’s resolution – or my first, since I didn’t really create one before.  Truthfully, I’m going to make this the agenda for the next several months.  Also, too, there are a few souls who’ve taken the time to ride the race single speed – one such person holds the record at about 17 days and ever-how-many hours; nothing like trying to break a world record!
___

The ride along the beltline is still scheduled for Sunday morning-ish, and will surely wrap up before the “Big Game…”  Should be a blast.

j

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday

If you grew up anywhere near a dragracing track, you might be familiar with the slightly overzealous radio programs that go in step.

While this Sunday could very easily be “jet funny-car week” at any one town, here in the grand city of Atlanta it will also serve as a chance for fellow cyclists to get a look-see at what may come of the beltline.  I mention this because the beltline is very much a celebration of all things green – bicycles included (even chrome BMX if I remember correctly, hint, hint – skatepark) – so I guess a ride around town by bicycle sounds most fitting.

The fine folks over at Atlanta Bicycle Coaltion are heading up the ride, so if you’re free and want to “engage” have at it.  The weather should be slightly welcoming with only cold temperatures and no moisture.

Cheers,

j

It's the little things

Yes, it most certainly is.  It was very much something little that almost rendering bananaking.com more useless than normal.


Fortunately, before the lights went out, I backed up everything.  In the end I was left with a blank page and spent a good hour rebuilding.  One awesome feature of wordpress is the ability to backdate postings.  Some subtle changes, namely no more splash page – I figured it’s now time to have this site act like it’s the 2002.  Plus, a new favicon.


This past Saturday served as my first experience with ABC – Atlanta Bicycle Coalition.  In spite of the weather for most of the day, it served as nice way for me to get a feel for the population of cyclist in the Atlanta Metro Area.  No question a dedicated bunch.  While the traffic situation in Atlanta is reaching ever higher, plans/desires are well in place for the ease of travel via bicycle.


Saturday also served as my first opportunity to ride my bike over 20 miles – clocking somewhere around 65 miles before the day was out.  Add to that a nice flat tire while scooting around town, and in all, it was an extremely productive day.


As Spring approaches, ABC will be offering more events; some of which are based strictly downtown, others will include travels to and from Stone Mountain.


j

Amazing

that almost two weeks ago I was concerned about the weather.

According to all reports – TV, online, lady at the local supermarket – Georgia is in for the storm of the year, or ah, the decade maybe.  Tomorrow we are set to get some moisture (a storm) from the Gulf of Mexico, which according to some, means snow in Georgia (whereas, a storm coming from the north would result in just an extreme shortage of toilet paper, bread and milk.)

Because of the cold it’s been a few days since I’ve ridden my bike. javascript:void(0) But with the pending blizzard of 2010, I figured I might as well have a go at it.  If anything I can work on my snowball-throwing-and-pedaling-at-the-same-time skills.

For those that live in Georgia and have given some thought to riding for a purpose – commuting, etc – there’s a very well established website/organization interested in much the same – atlantabike.org.  I mention this, because it was total news to me.  In my conversation with Mark Shine of biketexas.org, I incorrectly explained that Georgia needs to consider the same initative (we should be so lucky as to have somethin like biketexax.org).

Fortunately, it looks like someone’s on the ball.  So anyway, if you live in town, have a look-see at some of the events coming up.

They’re on facebook too – neat.

So, anyway, while it’s certainly chilly out, Clutch will warm the spirits…

All I want for Christmas

well, not much really. Maybe some dry socks or a rain hat, but other than that…

Currently weathering through the rain this part of the coast, which may well be the entire coast – at the moment in Point Arena it’s nice and, well almost dry, some rain.  Since leaving SF a few days back, the rain has either been ahead of me, or has caught up to me after stopping for the evening.

As mentioned a few postings back, I decided to opt for a Bivy Sac rather than a tent, for weight, etc.

Well, interesting choice as it resulted in a soaked sleeping bag, and soaked me.  No big deal, just that waking up wet, with the rain still coming down means that everything is packed wet – only to come out wet for the following evening.

Fortunately, I was provided for by a fellow camper who gave me his tarp – which is/was all I really needed.  The bivy sac is completely waterproof from about the chin down, so the tarp positioned up over my head is absolutely ideal, and dry.  Last night was one of the best camping nights I have had since leaving Atlanta back in September; setting up shop on a cliff over the Pacific may have had something to do with it.  As I get closer to OR, I may go back to a tent – not just yet though.

A big big thank you to everyone in SF for the good times – Janet, Gethin, Reza,  and Jim – very nice way to relax before stressing out a bit when water started falling out of the sky.

some photos:

campsite smile.

I was able to set up right behind this cliff – under a tree, about 3 feet from where a family of deer also make camp.  One in particular was at the edge of the cliff when I first walked up, but was gone after I went back to get my camera…

I haven’t yet gotten the nerve to shoot a photo while pedaling, given how many times I dropped the disposable camera(s).  So, this will have to suffice for the artistic bicycle photo.   The new gear ratio of 48:16 has been especially challenging, as the coast of CA is no where near flat – but has been rewarding too given the amount of speed I can generate going down hill.

Merry, happy, safe Christmas.

Cheers,
j

Wow, so yes, I am on a bicycle tour – really, I am…   You wouldn’t know it based on my recent schedule.  San Fransisco has really gotten the best of me.

Tomorrow, for real this time, I leave the comfortable confines of a hostel mattress and make the move back into a sleeping bag.  I’ve gotten on really well with a few of my hostel mates, all of whom are leaving tomorrow, so it will be a nice transition.

Also too, after feeling really sorry for myself, and after having severe withdraws being without a camera, I made use of a super retarded sale at the local Costco here and bought a point and shoot camera – nice to have one again.  The Pacific Coast is, um, very nice to look at – I figure it would be nice also to have some photos of the place for later.

This photo is not of the pacific coast, but rather of the sketchy alley way outside the hostel

so, anyway, hopefully more photos as the days go by.

Miles, thanks for the comment.  San Fransisco is awesome.  By March, I may be interested in pedaling back down the coast, so we’ll work something out.

Cheers,

j

One of these days

I’ll leave San Fransisco.  It’s an easy place to become part of; bike friendly, super nice people, on and on.

As of yesterday, I had planned to leave the city this morning, and start further up the coast.  It sounded good.  I really just wanted the chance to spend some time here with the sun out, which it definitely was today.

I took a trek over the Golden Gate Bridge.  For all the photos you’ve seen, and given how many moves it shows up in, seeing it in person is just as amazing.  Riding across it, though proves to be a challenge as there are several outfits that rent bikes for a ride over the bridge – which means you are ride next to, or heading toward those who’ve never actually been on a bike before, or at least in the last 40 years.

So, tomorrow will be, should be, my exit.  The weather is supposed to be just as nice as it was today, so hopefully I can put in about 70 miles before calling it quits.

Cheers

j

While

getting the first class upgrade is awesome, so is sleep.  Some 40 hours awake coupled with about 2 of sleep ain’t a lot of fun.  And since I’m now almost fully rested, it figures that the rain would arrive.  I’ve only seen a little of San Fransisco – rain or no rain – so I’ve decided to hang around for an extra day to take in some of the sights.

Tomorrow morning is supposed to be sunny(ier); I’ve been looking forward to the trek across the Golden Gate bridge for a while now and figure doing it with a bit of sunshine makes sense.

Thanks for the comment Clay – staying warm and dry(ish) are the order of the day for the next couple of weeks.  I’ve yet to test the veracity of “20 Degree” when it comes to sleeping bags, so if anything the couple of weeks will do just that.

Cheers,

j

I've found the perfect cure

for jet-lag – the unexpected upgrade to first-class.  Even with about 2 hours sleep the night before, and with stressing out over checking in an EXTRA large box of “camping equipment” at the airline, I was bright eyed enough to become even more bright eyed about the “well, why don’t we switch you to one of our first class seats…”

Yes, why not indeed.

San Fran is much like when I left a few weeks back, grayish, only this time no rain – that will be tomorrow.  I made a subtle adjustment on my bike at the other day at Knight bikes that I have been so anxious to try out – namely, switching from 48:17t gear ration to 48:16t.  Amazing what a change in one tooth size can do;  obviously a little harder to pedal starting out, but oh so fast – even up hill, for which S. Francisco has its share.

Tomorrow I move back to camp-life; with the rain coming this evening, it should be that much more enjoyable.

Cheers,

And on

the trip is continuing to take many a turn. Currently in Oakland, working on an arrangement for Thanksgiving Eve, if not just a ride through San Fran. The goal at this point is to get to Chico, maybe by the end of the weekend – Sunday. From there, who knows.

It’s getting a little colder with each passing mile, but fortunately, I am no longer in SoCal.

More later.
www.gingerninjas.com – currently traveling with the drummer of this band. check them out – too much to explain.