The Beginning of the End:

Notes on the “Season,”  An Uncalled for Observation,  and Upcoming Events

We come to this week.  The week of Thanksgiving.  That, it has always seemed to me, is the point where the year starts to circle the drain.  It’s a confusing time.  The year is winding down, and we’re all running around like mad hatters, getting ready for it.  Still, we can not escape the fact that there are only six weeks left in this year.  And then comes the Winter.

For cyclists, and others active in the outdoors, this is an extremely challenging time.  The weather has turned a bit, and everyone we know seems to be intent on obligating us to go inside and eat.  (We all know where that leads.)

Good luck all.  Stay sane, and preserve your sense of humor.

An Uncalled for Observation:

Fact:  The majority of Triathletes are runners first.

Fact:  A triathlon consists of three distinct disciplines.  They are, in order, a mass open water swim race, a bicycle time trial, and a foot race.

Fact:  For those new to trisport, the greatest time gain possible is in the cycling segment.

Fact:  Triathletics is the fastest growing segment of the bicycle “market.”

Fact:  Triathletes (most of them, anyway) are not cyclists.  They tend to regard the bicycle as a vehicle that carries them from the water to the run.

Fact:  In a bicycle time trial, drafting is not allowed.  This is for safety.

Fact:  If folks stay in triathletics long enough, they will discover what road cyclists have always known; it’s easier to ride fast if you are drafting another rider.

Never mind that the last two facts are in direct logical conflict, they are real!  More and ever more, one sees “trikes” out on the road, engaged in “group training rides.”  When they are thus engaged, they will, most likely be attempting to paceline, and doing it poorly.

Recently, I had the following video called to my attention.  It speaks volumes to the point above.

Incidentally, the question does arise, why would one train for a "no draft" event by attempting to draft?

Looking forward:

I hope to have a good and happy announcement in tomorrow’s Tuesday Tome.  Please look for it.  (If you are not on the distribution list for this weekly newsletter, and would like to be, please contact me at the.road.dragon@gmail.com  )

Christmas Lights Rides:

There are two of these.  With one idea.  We’ll ride bikes, and look at some of the most extravagant Christmas Lighting Displays around.  Both start from Bicycles Unlimited.  In both cases, we’ll go at any temperature above 20 degrees F.  Rain will cancel.  No rain dates.  (Rain is defined as water falling from the sky, in any amount or form.)

Christmas Lights Road Ride:

When:  Monday 19 December, and starts at 7:00 P.M. (Sharp!)

Pace:  Recreational and moderate.  Group will stay together.

Distance:  About 25 miles.  (Expect to be out for two and a half hours.)

Required:  Dress for the weather.  Helmets.  Good lights on both front and back.  Reflective vest or sash and reflective ankle bands.  (There is no such thing as being too visible!)

Christmas Light Path Ride:

When:  Wednesday 21 December, and starts at 7:00 P,M. (Sharp!)

Pace:  Easy recreatonal.  Group will stay together.  No drop.

Distance:  Approx 15 miles.  (Expect to be out between an hour and a half and two hours)

Required:  Dress for the weather.  Good lights.  Helmets.

Annual Penance 100:

What can I say?  It’s an annual rite for some of us.  Get up early on New Year’s Day and go ride 100+ miles (with a mountain in the middle, yet), self supported.  It’s a way of saying,  “I’m still here!”  I recommend a moderate pace.  Seems like folks who try to hammer this one are the ones who tend to have trouble.  That’s not universally true, but it is a Winter ride, and most of us are no longer near our Summertime “peak.”  More, it’s a no SAG, no paint, no catered rest stop type of ride.  It’s fun, and it certainly establishes one’s “creds.”

I do recommend that you bring plenty of water and food, as well as other prudent preparations.  Usually there are some stores open along the way, but it’s not very reliable.

Start/Finish:  Bicycles Unlimited

When:  Sunday 1 January, at 7:00 A.M.  (Promptly, please!)

Distance: is 106 miles. (There’s a “Metric 100” as a “bailout.”)

Conditions:  Ride goes rain or shine, no rain dates.

Requirements:  You and your bicycles, helmets of course, a cheerful attitude, and your intestinal fortitude.

Note:  Cue Sheets are will be available at the start, and by email prior request.

So there you have it, a nice end to the year, and a great way to start the next one.