Last Ride of the Year

Today, I just HAD to end the year with a singletrack ride. Headed over to Manawa and ride the trails I rode yesterday. Rode better today than yesterday. Thanks again RF and Martin to deflate my tires.

Weather was upper 20s, sunny, and with some wind. By the time I had finished riding, I was quite warm - wearing too many layers. Tomorrow, I will probably need it.

Here's shots of the same place on Fast Track - December vs September

First snow singletrack ride

This morning I decided to join (late) the group riding in the snow at Lake Manawa. This was the first time I rode singletrack in the snow. I had been seeing all of the posts on MBTOmaha, had to get out and try it.

It was like learning to ride all over again. My balance and coordination seemed to be all screwed up. I took my time, but made a very short lap.

Meeting the group, Ryan and Martin let a bunch of the air out of my tires. Guess "soft" means "almost flat"! It did make a big difference.

Maybe I will ride again tomorrow - before the big thaw forecast later in the week.

New Year Day ride (in the snow) at Manawa - 2pm. Thanks for calling the ride, Martin. See you Tuesday.

Iowa Caucus

It is just 6 days to the Iowa Caucus. This entry is aimed at my fellow Iowa residents.

Normally I would not express political issues in my bicycling blog, but this is a pivotal campaign. It has been MANY years since there is no sitting President or Vice-President running. Our "First-In-The Nation" caucuses start the process to elect our next president.

With all of the issues facing our country, it is imperative that Iowans get out to the caucuses. Even if you are an independent, I understand you can register a party affiliation at the caucus.

Caucuses start at 6:30pm, January 3rd. You must be in the caucus location before 7:00pm - that's when the doors are locked.

Get out and exercise your right.

If you are interested, I am a Precinct Captain for John Edwards for President 08.

41 Degrees and dropping

I had to get out and ride today. The temperature when I started was 41, sky cloudy, and very light wind. Good time to check my gear for another 5 degrees colder. Rode for about an hour, felt great.

Since I was riding on the paved trails in Lake Manawa, I rode over to the mountain bike trails. Did not even have to try riding - they are very soft. Looks like we are now into the freeze/thaw cycle for the season.