Lutzker is officially old.

Last Saturday was Lutzker's birthday, ironically 10 years later Dainty was born on the same day. Coincidence? I think not. Both are short, balding and have bad tan lines. Doppelganger?.......

Although I have no pictures from Lutzker's bash, I do have some extremely mediocre low res photo's from Dinner with Dainty. About 20 people showed up to Masuo's for some delectable "S" (Sushi, Sapporo's and Sake).Some familar faces to the PBS blog; Jensy, Mr. Smooth (and the missus), BGaJ (If you have to ask you don't want to know), Boy Band, MattNey (pronounced Mat Knee) to name a few.

Here are my sub par photo's some with frames (when I say sub par I mean really shitty).


White tarsh Breyer with Dainty and Nicole.
Dainty & RL.

White Trash Breyer (Dainty's brother)

Dedicated to my boss.....

Here is a blurry mess; Jensy, SM (The hot Breyer) a blurry Jorge and WT's wife Heather.

MattNey in full force.

True Multi-tasker.

Tour schmour, yes I am watching it, no I am not going to critique everything that is going on in it.

Tomorrow is Track night! Roller Queen and GI Nate are racing. Come on down, have a beer and harass the racers with me.

Lots of Birthdays this week....

*Crazy Mary (hottie from Starbucks) turns 21 today
*Megs the Legs turns 23 on Wednesday
*Dainty is 30 on Saturday

Happy Birthday Kids!!!

The shop is killing it right now. We have been packed the past couple weeks, not to mention today.

It's a bad picture I know but, this is the latest rendition of my Diesel (SyCip singlespeed). Most of you have heard about my trip up to NorCal to pick it up. It's been updated with disc tabs and a new powdercoat (John Deere green with gold metal flake).

I rode it last Thursday on the night ride and Sunday for a quick ride in the late morning.

That's about it right now.

iTunes:
Modest Mouse "Polar Opposites"

Socks:
DeFeet "Woolie Boolie"

Bike in the stand:
Cannondale "Bad Boy"

Yes that is what you think it is. Sorry ladies, he is not single.

Thank goodness! I can eat again and just in time. M&M's wedding was this weekend. I wouldn't be able to hold in my anger if I hadn't been able to enjoy the PCG at the reception.

Speaking of M&M, I went to the bachelor party last Thursday. Needless to say details will be withheld but, here are some highlights. The night was named "Drinking & Driving".

+We drank at the Limey's house
+We raced at K1 Speed (Carlsbad)
+We drank at Tom Giblin's.
+We drank at Coyote Bar (+added bonuses**, and a slightly intoxicated "Force"). Sorry Daggs.

I stopped drinking around midnight to sober up and drive The Fitz home. I had commandeered his phone earlier in the night since he was using it as a hockey puck. I texted "Legs" (He was fine, I was driving him home, she could go to bed, He loved her, blah, blah). I hope I one day find a girl like her. They are an awesome couple. I am really glad they are friends.

The night was definitely tame by most bachelor party standards but, was a great time.



This was my lunch today, The San Clemente pizza from Pizza Port. It's basically Taco Pizza (Mmmmm....).



Since I have been sick the last week and not really up to date on the web, I forgot to mention my trip to mecca (The SyCip factory). Chicken Little and I drove up to Santa Rosa last weekend. After battling San Fran traffic and 101 North Bay traffic, we arrived at SyCip around 4:30 (empty gas tank and empty stomach). Jeremy was waiting for us. I got to pick my decal color for my SS. I had given them artistic control of the color as long as it stayed green. Jay picked "John Deere" green with a gold nugget top coat. It's amazing! It's pearlescent in the sunlight. I looked at my options for the decals and settled on light blue. Great choice, the bike looks awesome (I even found some light blue Oury grips for accent). When we finished with the frame, we followed him to one of the local MTB spots, Annadel State Park. How many of us can say we have ridden with one of our "heroes". Jeremy has handmade all five of my frames, each and every one has a place in my heart. Unfortunately I was famished and exhausted. I was making stupid mistakes and bonking hard. Not really the condition I was hoping to be in. Jermey, CL and I headed back to town for a burger and brew. Jay SyCip stopped by to visit.

Either way it was a great trail and I can't wait to go back there and ride it again. The park boasts 30 miles of singletrack, all perfectly groomed from what I saw. Who is up for a road trip?

Saturday I woke up in Mill Valley. A little town very similar to Encinitas, Mill Valley is at the base of Mt. Tam (the birthplace of MTBing). I walked into town and found a coffee shop, Mill Valley Coffee. Around the corner was a bike shop Jeremy had recommended, Mill Valley Cycleworks. I walked in a few minutes after they opened. I had to pinch myself I thought I was in the twilight zone. The bikes, clothing, service department and fit area looked exactly like B&L. One of the sales guy reconfirmed my plans for riding a nearby park. Jay & Jeremy told us to checkout China Camp in San Rafael.

China Camp State Park is located in San Rafael and looks out over the bay. Most of the trails we rode had awesome views to the south, SF way out in the mist.

That's it for now. I am watching the tour coverage and don't want to miss the crash.

Happy 4th!

How did you spend your day? lounging at the beach? Go for a bike ride? Spend time with family?

What did I do? Same thing I have done for the past three days (aside from mistakenly going to the track last night).

Yep, my stomach has been upset since Sunday it was from exhaustion from my trip, among other things. I haven't been able to hold down solid food in 3 days. Needless to say my energy level is below normal. I am feeling better, right now.....maybe I should try and make some of this. If I haven't called you back give me a day or so, I am busy making pepto smoothies.

I did do something patriotic today, I watched Rocky I- IV in succession.

YO, I did it Adrian!!!!!

This looks tempting.....

Cyclingnews Coverage on the 2008 Specialized MTB lineup

Movie night should include a movie both of us should enjoy....right?

Maybe if I allowed her in my house, I could pick. Not likely. Today's pick; "Pride & Prejudice". I was hopeful, Keira Knightley is in it. Can't be bad right? Nope. Bad might be a strong word, unwatchable is a better word. Unfortunately I haven't read the book so I didn't know what I was in for. If I had maybe I would have thought better. Oh well, there was dinner involved.

The two Chickens, Delicate, and I hopped into the toaster on wheels and headed up to the Rim Nordic MTB race on Sunday. We rolled into the parking lot to find the not as dainty Breyer and James. He races for the B&L tri team as well as Xterra and MTB endurance races. I on the other hand watched the races and yelled encouraging words at the racers....ha. I also took it upon myself to taste some of the snacks offered at the venue (see undercooked cheeseburger). The SS race started at noon. Chicken Sympathizer was the first to pass on the first lap, then Chicken Little. I was amazed to see "not as Dainty" pass before "Dainty". Luckily for DD his brother wasn't in the same category. CS ended up winning the SS expert race (3 minutes before the first placed Sport geared guy), CL placed 4th and Dainty in 7th. NAD placed 3rd in the SS Sport class and James won his category in the geared sport race. Congrat's to all the guys!

It's weird looking out my front door and not seeing her.....

Is your car/ truck/ bike a boy or a girl? Does it have a name?

My car is Java.
1. Subaru calls her Java Black Pearl.
2. She is definitely caffenated (ie. fast, quick movements, etc).

She is in for a major tuneup before it's too late. At 99,000 miles it's time for Timing belts. I am also going for the rest of the equation (idler pulleys, idler belts, water pump, etc.). $$$$

I took her down to my buddy Charlie's place, Charlie's Foreign Car. I had called Subaru to get an estimate for the work. They wanted over $1500 for the work. Charlie hooked me up for considerably less. Most of the cost is labor and even though I am a mechanic I have my boundaries with cars. I trust these guys and appreciate their abilities.

Track night was special....

Race Summary:

+ Delicate and I run by In-n-Out. 2 cheeseburgers each.
+ Delicate and I show up and sit down with Mark & Paula Allen (Power couple of the tri world, inside joke). Don Ho and Collarbone even made an appearance! Don Ho being my boss I had to make a jab, right?
+ Just as we finish the burgers and enjoy the race G.I. Nate gets caught up in a wreck and goes down pretty hard. A few scratches, road rash and a cracked helmet later.
+ We met QTBL's sister to be named "Mouthy Maloof" for the time being.

Lefty's:

+ Delicate and I roll up. QTBL, MM and Ted have found a table. We get our beers and sit down.
+ DD pulls the insult of the hour out, "Mouthy Maloof" instantly becomes "Rachel Ray". Wow she did not like that. Douchebags aplenty. She tore DD a new one. Good times.
+ The "Voice" shows up and keeps us in stitches until Dave forces us off the premises. Weekly occurence.

Good lord it was not a dull Tuesday at the track. I love it here.

Congrats Jens, 2nd place! (first loser to some...just kidding)

Good Lord it was hot out there! Some were claiming mid-nineties, I can believe it. Jens pulled 9 laps off, amazingly I might add. The course was just short of 10 miles and 1400 ft of elevation. Yikes.

I sent him out with my GPS for his first six laps, charged it (Thanks Paul) and his last lap. The data is impressive, I just haven't figured out how to upload the data to blogger or the web for that matter.

My asshole ways worked yet again to force another rider to keep going. Our next door racer (Paul from LA) wanted to quit after 4 laps. I gave him some Advil for his back pain, lubed his chain, polished his bike and rolled it out. "Paul your bike is ready, get on." Works like a charm every time. He finished 6 laps.

Jens and I are leaving for Temecula in 7 hours. As usual I can't sleep. I don't know why I get nervous about a race, especially when it's not me racing.

Come on out if you are in the neighborhood.

12 hours of Temecula, 9am to 9pm.

Count the chins......

Contrary to this photo, since I started riding my bike to work I have lost 3 pounds. Now when is it going to leave my neck....

Lots going on.....

*"24 Solo" was great. It showed the pain and anguish of participating in a 24 hour race. It also showed the humorous side as well.
*I rode a blisteringly slow 80 miles on Friday. (Maybe it was in ceremony of the Fall of Turner; see next point)
*Nytro was sold to a friend of a friend (Reign of Turner is no more). CVT's last day was Friday 6/8.
*Tracy finally made it out to Track night. I think he had a good time, especially since most of the night was spent making fun of Jensypoo and not him. Boyband also made an appearance to root on N8.
*Etc.

I think Chicken Little and I are taking a Road Trip next week. Jeremy says my frame should be finished mid next week. We are going to drive up and pick up the frame on Friday. Make a long weekend out of it. The SyCip boys might even show us the trails!

I have to get back to the repairs. I am up to my eyeballs in PBS work.


Bike in the stand:
Paisley Fillet brazed Road

Socks:
Chrome Royales

iTunes:
Pixies "Hey"

B&L has a new website including an online store, Check it out!

www.blbikes.com

Let me summarize my day....

+Woke up early for a MTB ride but, my traveling partner was late.
+We rode the one place that I dread each and everytime I ride there.
+Bjorn, Kerri, Matt, Geri and I all got citations for attempting to ride a trail we have been riding for 7 years. Although I did burn 1467 calories per my Edge 205.
+Matt, Chris, Geri and I stopped by Stone Brewery for brunch and a brew. Matt got lost on the way. Triple Dry hopped Ruination IPA is delicious for breakfast.
+I got a call from some buddies to ride our cruisers down to the Fiesta del Sol celebration in Solana Beach.
+As soon as we pulled into my driveway, I rolled down to their apartment by the beach. They weren't there.
+I met them on the 101 and ran into Bjorn at Filibertos on the way there.
+Fiesta del Sol was a bust but, Chiefs was spectacular as usual.

That's about it. I am going to sleep well tonight....

Tuesday Night Track Racing.....What can I say that hasn't been said before....

Nick took some great photo's, as usual.

G.I. Nate can be seen in the B&L kit towards the back of the pack.

The focal point of this photo is Andrews' gold helmet. Good to see the old man racing.

Jens looks fast in this one. He eventually passed by this guy and got second in the race (Jens is in blue)

Here is an article about Tuesday Night Racing from the Union Tribune.

I worked the first annual San Diego Century yesterday. The ride started from MiraCosta College, in Encinitas, at 6:00am. Scott and I arrived around 5:45ish to help the riders with minor repairs ie, flat fixes and derailleur adjustments.

Around 8:00am I rolled out in the B&L shop truck to do race support. Most of the people I rolled up to had their spares and tools ready (Thanks!). My rule of thumb is if they have everything I keep going. My first real call wasn't until Del Dios Hwy where I repaired a chain for a father/ son team. They were grateful to be able to keep rolling especially since we weren't halfway yet. My next call was in Poway, so I cut course and arrived to SAG station 3. 6 people were waiting for me. The repairs ranged from air to Cleat adjustments. My number one repair for the day though was tire replacement, not tubes, Tires....yikes. It's pretty bad if you need a tire.

All in all the attitude was positive. Everyone thanked us for being out there and helping out. We were able to fix 95% of all the repairs thrown at us. Good times.
_____________________________________________________________

I think I am going to invest in a GPS. We started carrying Garmin a couple weeks ago. Being the gadget geek I am, the functions and features are tempting. The model I am looking at is the "basic" model, the Edge 205. Garmin has two "Cycling" GPS units the Edge 205 & 305. The differences between the two are simple. The 305 has heartrate functions as well as cadence (with optional accessories). The 205 retails for $250 and the 305 retails for $350* (*plus options).

I am intrigued with the idea plotting my rides and being able to load them into my computer and Google Maps. Do I need one? No. Will I get one soon? Yes. I love trying new things, I am addicted to "stuff".


iTunes:
The Office, "The Job"

Socks:
DeFeet Classics

Bike in the stand:
Fox F80RLT

Jens tells me I need to update my blog.....As if I spend oodles up time just sitting around...

Well here you go Jens!

(photo by Nick )
The bleachers were packed last night!

A hundred or so spectators showed up last night to watch some good old Track racing. The normal groups were there; Adams Avenue (Chris, Andrew, D Large/ Alicia, Nick, Ted etc.), The "Messengers" (ABC's Kenton & Mimi, Noah, etc.) and B&L (Delicate, PBS, Cinnamon Star, Rinker, Dano, and suprisingly Geri showed up). Nick has some high quality photo's up on his blog (cornerstonelife.blogspot.com).

As far as racing was concerned our (B&L) very own mechanic, Nate, raced his first Track race! Nate has been taking the Monday night Track practice for the past couple months. He raced a scratch race and then a points race. Fortunately during his last race he narrowly escaped one of the racers hitting the wall, literally. Good bike skills on those racers that got around it. Juls was also in the race, rumor has it she rolled over the dude's wheel, yikes. Thank god she wasn't riding her new bike!

I give an A+ to those of you who commented or emailed me "sarcastic" replies. Good Job!

Tomorrow night is Track night at the Velodrome. There is a 60 lap Madison race at the end of the night that should be exciting. I still haven't decided between Bass Ale or Pacifico. I guess what's on sale will decide.

My Enduro seals were received a few days ago (quick shipping!). Now I just need some extra time to install them. Chris has posted detailed installation instructions on the site, with photos.


I road to work today! Man, it was a beautiful day. No clouds, 75 degrees and riding along the ocean, San Diego is paradise. I saw a few familiar faces out on the road. The Welshman, Jensypoo, Delicate and even the illusive C Rinker were seen cruising the coast.

A couple of additions have been added to my toy box. I have been riding with a pair of Oakley Racing Jacket's with Transition lenses. Simply put, they rock! I couldn't believe how dark they actually got in extreme sunlight. I can ride with them to work and they lighten up enough for me to ride with them just past sunset. I think they are too dark for actual night riding but, work great for commuting and daytime use.
I also purchased some Campagnolo Ultra Torque Centaur Compact cranks. The past couple rides I have wanted a few more gears. I looked into getting a new cassette but that would only add 3 teeth. I needed something more substantial. The cranks are made of forged aluminium and are 172.5 in length. I had been using 175's for years but, that was just because I didn't know better and that was what I was used to on my MTB. It's amazing how stiff these things are. The BB cups are simply that, cups. The bearings are attached to the crankarms as well as each arm has half of the BB spindle. At the end of the spindle there are splines that interlock. One 10mm bolt holds the spindle together. The bolt is easy to torque if you use a rachet extender, a 10mm allen socket and a torque wrench that exceeds 60.iTunes:
Primus "Intruder" from Miscellaneous Debris

Bike in the stand:
Keith Anderson

Socks:
B&L 3" Royales by Sockguy

Beautiful......

Report: 70 Percent Of All Praise Sarcastic

I am officially back on the horse! I rode my bike 6 days last week. Scary how quick your legs and lungs forget. I feel like my brakes are rubbing and my backpack is filled with cinder blocks. Yuck.

I am in the process of overhauling the 29er and realized I haven't rebuilt my Maverick fork yet. I needed to order some new seals. I have wanted to try Enduro seals for awhile now so what better time? I ordered a set for my SC32 and a set for one of my Fox forx. They should be in next week, I can't wait to try them out.
Bike in the stand:
SyCip Super Unleaded Plus

iTunes:
Kings of Leon "Wicker Chair"

Socks:
SockGuy Ride Clean

My fan club have informed me that I need to update the blog. In true G fashion I told them to blow it out their ear.

Since I have been feeling better I started riding again. Sunday I rode my MTB and Monday I road the Javaboy. I finally talked to Jeremy about my Diesel and what I wanted to do with it (it on it's way up to mecca). I am starting to gather up the parts to upgrade the bike (07 Hope Mono Mini brakes, XTR cranks, King hubs, etc).


I recently installed something new to my 29er. I am trying out a pair of Ergon P1M grips. At first look they remind me of hybrid/ cruiser grips. I know several top level racers that have been using them. If they are good enough for them why not, right? They are supposed to "prevent numb fingers, and painful hands and forearms". Setup is key. Getting the grips at the correct angle for your hands is very important. The grips feature an aluminium clamp similar to ODI lockons. The grips haven't moved on me even though there is only one clamp.

I only have 2 solid rides on the grips so I can't give you a complete review but, so far so good. I only had to adjust them a little on my first ride. Review coming soon......

It's raining buckets here in San Diego. On the upside I am 98% cured! I am even thinking about riding to work tomorrow. Crazy, I know.

Sunday there is a Track event happening at the Velodrome. I have been thinking of riding down and checking it out. It is Earth Day after all. If you find your self with nothing to do Sunday head down to Balboa Park. The races start around 9:00am and end around 4:00pm.

Sea Otter 2007 XC Course

Yes folks I am feeling much better....

Just in time for Tuesday Night Track racing! The season opener was last week but, with my compound sickness and house sitting, I couldn't make it. I did however cruise down this evening with Chewbacca aka Johnny G. Nate met us down at the track just in time to see The Chicken Sympathizer racing?!!!! He is the fastest vegan I know, heck he might be the only vegan I know. T pulled out the stops and broke away for a few laps. He ended up with 5th in the points race (25 laps).

I haven't been on my bike in two weeks and I am getting the itch. I think I might ride to work tomorrow. Anyway, I am off and will write soon.



Bike in the stand:
Bottechia

iTunes:
Band of Horses "The Funeral"

Socks:
"GrainBelt" Promo's

Update!
I found a new friend, Robitussin Honey Cough Drops!


*My name is Gordon and I have a problem.....

I have traded hanging out with friends, riding my bike, drinking beer and cleaning my house for an obsession. They are with me at all times, day and night. I need to kick my habit but, it's going to take awhile.

The first step is facing my demons.....Here they are;












I haven't had a cough drop in 10 minutes and my throat is itchy. I have to go now.

1 post for the month of March.....I suck.

It's even my birthday month, sad. Needless to say it's been quite busy here. I built a couple Blue Competition T-14's for some friends, several tune-ups and working full time at B&L. Loving every minute of it.

It's a change from PBS in that i'll work on a Serotta, then a Specialized and a Huffy all in one day. It feels different working for a company that respects you and is willing to listen to ideas (different meaning good). Thanks go out to Scott and Matt for giving me that chance.

My buddy Derek (formerly of SG) has taken a position at Pactimo to help them with their custom apparel business. Derek is expecting his second child (I am hoping she will be named Willy Wonka, time will tell...) and will be working from home.

All in all everything is good. I started riding to work although I have some chest congestion right now which has put a pause on my commuting.


Socks:
Atari

iTunes:
Stephen Lynch "Vanilla Ice Cream"

Bike in the stand:
Orbea Tri

Well here I am, about 90% back to normal (if I can be normal...). I feel like I am coming back from a whirlwind tour. I am retiring from "Captain of Cardboard" status. Most everyone knows but, I am taking a job at B&L Bikes in Solana Beach. I will be wrenching amoung other responsibilities. The more and more I thought about it, all I want to do is work on and around bikes. Although I love working for SockGuy (most of the time), I need to do what I love doing. Isn't that what we all need?

Heck maybe this means I will ride more? Crazy....

iTunes: Kings of Leon "Milk"

Bike in the stand: Cannondale F700

Socks: RideClean

I am alive, kind of.

We just got back from the 24 hours on the Old Pueblo and I am still trying to catch up on sleep.

I will post soon, when I get my wits back.

Thanks for looking...

Wednesday was Jensifer's birthday! He is one step closer to the "30" club.

A bunch of hooligans showed up at Masuo's to celebrate. The table was a veritable who's who of bicycle industry lifers. Mr. Smooth oozed his way out of his lair to join the party as well as The bearded lady, which unannounced to us, shaved the beard. Dainty blessed us with an appearance, as soon as he became Manager of the shop he became to VIP. Elmer Fudd, CS and The Kaiser rolled up from North Park. There were other miscellaneous attendees as well, Juls stopped by after track practice, Doc arrived with Dainty and The beardless lady made an appearance (It's a good thing too, many of us didn't believe she existed). The usual with this crowd a couple of us embarassed ourselves, a couple of us were a little too liquored and some of us have no sense of humor (you know who you are).

Good times.....

If you are ever in Solana Beach and you are craving sushi, you have to stop by Masuo's. The best sushi I have found in San Diego. They are well known for the atmosphere, the attractive clientele (present company excluded) and their "Special" rolls. The MC is my favorite (It's a california roll with cream cheese on top, served warm). Griff's, Donk's, Monkey Stick and Angry Dragon are all good choices as well.

I love night riding.

Maybe it's because everyone slows down a little and we have fun. Talking, laughing, sometimes drinking, It's like a night club with out the music.

Maybe I should rethink this pro mechanic stuff.....


Page's Mechanic Beaten In Lille!

Wonder why Jon Page didn’t start the race in Lille the other day? If you think racing is tough in Europe, try being a mechanic. Page’s wrench was hospitalized before the start following an assault by race security. Belgian Franky van Haesebroucke is under observation for a concussion that rendered him unconscious and possible partial nerve damage as a result. Page refused the start in protest. Imagine if Jeff Gordon’s crew chief got beat down by a bunch of deputized Hells Angels as he tried to get back to the pit via the beer line; that’s basically what we’re talking about here. Franky, Cori and Emma come and go all morning as the racers warm up, then when the tickets go on sale they get barred by the same brickhead who let them out to use the loo a few minutes before. It’s not the first time this has happened to Page – check this excerpt from his journal about an incident with his wife and baby trying to return to the pit area at the race in Nommay.
Jan 15: “As I was warming up on the trainer 50 meters from where the start line people had to go through the gate, a rider warming up next to me yelled to me that my wife needed help! I quickly turned to see my wife and little girl being beat on with a fence by a big burley "gate guard"…. Eventually the UCI officials came over and had the issue resolved for a moment until some other mechanic tried to get through the gate to help his rider and was met with a fence in the face. Then the brawl started again. Big action. So what happened with Cori and Emma? They were walking to the start line with my spare wheels and to pick my jacket up. There was only one way to get in. The man told them no. She tried to show her pass. He said no because the corner was cut. The other gatekeepers had cut it and given her a bracelet when she went in the public entrance earlier to take Emma to the toilet. She asked him how she should get to the start line then and he said he didn't know but she wasn't getting in there. … Within a few seconds, the other soigniers that Cori is with every race came to try to help her get in. She tried to go to them and the animal chest shoved her hard enough to knock her back ward. Until then, she was calm but after that she was mad and went to his face and said he couldn't do that and had to let her in. He then said no and slammed the big fence into her and Emma, knocking Emma down. Then she was angry. Emma was crying. Cori picked her up and told him to get the supervisors there immediately that he could not hurt a child! By this time people were coming to her aid and the animal started swing the fence in a rage knocking Cori in the side of the head and knee and palm punching her in the chest. She was screaming at him and then was pulled away while the real brawl started.”
Incredible. Mechanics and support staff paying to enter the grounds of a race they’re working is fucking absurd. That there isn’t a staff or teams entrance at races with 40,000+ spectators is ludicrous. It’s fairly obvious that the promoters hire whatever local goon squad is contractible to ‘work the door’ and deal with tens of thousands of drunk, cold cyclocross fans. If these people are supposed to be professional, how is it that they don’t know the difference between a hostile punter and a professional mechanic for the number 2 racer in the world? If these people are human, how is it they can endanger an infant and attack a mother? Any security company whose personnel are violently assaulting the public should never be allowed to work a race again. Where the fuck is the UCI in all this? Turning a blind eye because of the money the promoters bring in. The promoters, likely, are contracting low-bid scumballs to make sure that every last dollar is squeezed into their coffers. If those thugs get out of line they just claim justifiable force because of the size of the crowd. To not protect the very racers and staff who make the event possible is beyond the pale. The UCI and the mega-promotion consortiums that run professional cycling should be ashamed. They should also be taken to court.

Does anyone remember the old guy who used to ride his weird bike up and down the coast. The bike was a Trek OCLV and painted Pink, White and Yellow. He always wore knee guards....

I haven't seen that dude in years.

Do you people watch? I do. I frequently sit at the coffee shop and watch the world passing me. The professionals, the weirdos, the surfers, the high schoolers, the homeless.... About 5 months ago I started noticing this strange old guy everyday between 5:30 and 6:00. He walks down the side walk to the newspaper stands and checks the machine for change. He has a method so it's not spontaneous, then he walks across the street and checks the ones down the block and walks back.

Does he make any money doing this? Is he OCD? Has he lost his job and now is trying to recoup some of the loss? Is he trying to escape his nagging wife?

These are some of the scenarios I and my fellow "regulars" have come up with. One day I will get a photo of the chap.


Couple bikes rolling out the shop this week. A Cannondale System6 Team, a Cannondale Six13 Team and a Serotta Legend Ti. Business is starting to pickup finally.

Got back from the 12 hrs of Temecula

I kept my perfect record for Solo Tech Support, Razzberry won his race! He cranked out 9 laps! This was his first attempt at endurance Mountain Biking, he handled it like he was a seasoned professional. Congrats John!

My buddy Brendan was at the race showing off his new frames as well as teching for his wife Mary. He had two of his frames at the race, The Fifty Five (29" front, 26" rear ((29+26=55) and The Trauco (29er all day bike).

Fifty Five
Trauco

Brendan's niche is Aluminum. He is one of he few small guys* out there that do custom** Aluminum frames. For his first attempt on his own brand the frames have plenty of new touches (custom sliding dropouts, bent TT, gusseted DT, etc.) and great welds. The few frames I have seen have been raw but, I can't wait to see one with color. That Trauco might be the perfect addition to my fleet although I don't know what The brothers will say.

*Custom AL framebuilders:
SyCip
Ahrens
Action Frame
Strong Frames

**Custom sizing, tubing thickness, setup, etc.

"No heat

"No heat

You know it's cold when:

a) Your feet are so cold that when you step into the hot shower you scream because you're feet are burning from the shock.

b) Whenever you are in your apartment you are in long sleeves, pants, socks, and have a huge blanket wrapped around you.

c) You are wearing a super-padded bra, tank top, and long-sleeved shirt and you can still see your nips.

d) All of the above."
Taken from jennystopmakingmecookies.blogspot.com

I resemble this....except for c).....sometimes.

Can somebody pinch me? I think I am having a nightmare.

It was 36 degree's at my house on Saturday morning. Did I wake up to ride my bike, not even close. Instead I stayed in bed until 8:30 and then bundled up and went out for a coffee. Imagine my surprise when I saw some roadies out on 101. Crazy.

I have been trying to overcome a "cold" for the past two weeks. It's not the normal "cold", it drains my energy and gives me a headache. It's Bull"S".

I am pretty sure it doesn't help that my cottage (and when I say cottage I mean step above shanty) doesn't have a working heater. Well it might work but, every time I turn it on it smells like it's going to burn the house down. I would rather sit on my sofa in my sleeping bag than burn the place down. Although it might help me clean the place up....Nope sleeping bag is better.

Links for today;

I am wrenching for a few Solo racers this weekend in Temecula.
12 hours of Temecula

Part of my new Race Gear are my Carhartt Double front jeans.
Carhartt Workwear

Another new piece of Race Gear are my IronClad gloves.
Ironclad Performance Gear


Checkout the ala MasiGuy blog list at the bottom of the page. Do you have any blogs that you read regularly that aren't on this list? Let me know and I will add them.

Happy Birthday to the Chicken Sympathizer!


CS invited a group of ruffians down to his neck of the woods for a (hopefully annual) rolling bar crawl. Yes, that means bikes. The party started at Adams Avenue Bikes with pizza, beer and snacks. A good base of carbs to soak up the tasty beverages that followed.

I picked up Mister Smooth at the Smooth lair (*ladies beware* he is called Smooth for a reason). Fortunate for me I am a dude and it was easy to escape. We made it down to AA around 5:45pm. The place was already packed. A mix of AA coworkers, B&L former coworkers and misc others. I think we rolled out around 6:30 although my memory is a tad foggy. Jumping in to traffic on Adams Ave, we turned onto 30th which led to the first event of the evening. Boy Band (wrench at B&L) somehow was involved in a BB driveby. Luckily he was only shot in the leg but, still it could have been tragic. The Kaiser tried to chase down the vehicle but it got away (If you are in the North Park area on bike watch out for a dark green Blazer or Explorer).

The party regrouped at the first "Stop", Bluefoot Bar & Lounge. Boy Band showed off his "Welcome to North Park" temporary tattoo on his thigh. I started the evening off with a nice refreshing Jack & Coke, the only way to drink Tennessee swill....I mean whiskey, water it down with Coke. Please comment when I get your names wrong (The two times I met these guys I has slightly intoxicated) Nick and Everett pulled out some pretzels which were a perfect addition. Five minute warning is sounded and we're off.

(most of my evening looked like this, dark and blurry)

Around the corner and through the woods to grandmothers house......Sorry. Where was I? That is one of the issues, I am a North County guy. I am not familar with the area at all except I kind of know where the Livewire is. We took a few rights, then some lefts and we were there, The Red Fox Room. This place oozes old school. When I say old I mean Old. The average age was 75. That's not the only thing old, Senor Large was telling me that the wood in the place was shipped over from England. They had a live jazz band playing last night. I ordered a Captain & Coke. Mister Smooth claimed he didn't know what that was so he ordered a Pinot Noir.....What? Pinot in this place? The perfect drink would be an old fashioned but by the time we arrived there I had drained my flask and feeling no pain. Let's get back to the Pinot....what? Not to mention he ordered a salad and garlic bread....granted he raced earlier that day (Storm the Beach Cyclocross race) and got 2nd in the Cat 1/2/3 race but a Pinot? and he is wondering why the ladies weren't all over him..... The next big event happened when the singer came over to our section and asked whose Birthday it was. He unfortunately thought CS was a female because he sang "I only have eyes for you" (originally by The Flamingos). CS was quite embarassed, priceless. Two minute warning was sounded and we rolled down the hill to the Livewire.

I have been to the Livewire many times. It is our meeting spot for the annual "Midnight Madness" ride. Dark, usually loud and packed are words I could use to describe the Livewire. Last night the patrons were more interested in watching the Simpsons than listening to "the best jukebox in San Diego". I noticed they had a fresh bottle of Knob Creek so I ordered two Knob & Cokes (notice the theme?). I originally had planned to drain both but, when I saw them being poured into two normal sized pint glasses I decided I should pawn one off onto CS. He was visably scared. I killed mine within 20 minutes or so and noticed his still full.....You guessed it! I took one for the team and knocked it back.

(No this isn't the Paris Hilton video. This is the view from the bar. From L to R GiJoe, Miss Chicken Sympathizer, Senor Large and Chris).

This photo is for the AA guys Use this one for your own pleasure.....

Two minutes and we were rolling back to the shop. Waiting for us back at the shop were some ice cold Tecate's which ironically sobered me up not to mention I think I sweated most of the toxins out.

To CS, you are a great friend, one of the nicest guys around (besides me of course), the best cyclist I have ever known and humble to boot. I'll never forget all our adventures including Whistler, Idyllwild and Tucson. Welcome to the 30ish club.

Back from the Holidays.....

I do feel refreshed and effervescent. SG gave the lot of us the Xmas week off. So I proceeded to drink more Mocha's, think about work less, pretend to clean up the shop (aka my dining room) and drink more spirits.

I did ride a fair amount, not as much as I should have, but I road 6 of the 10 days I was off. Unfortunately I had to go in for a couple hours to finish my inventory and it looks like I will be counting more this week.

Dainty, the beard and I went for cheese steaks tonight. I don't care what sporkmag has to say about the place, Philly's Best in Oceanside has the tastiest steaks this side of the Mississippi. Makes me feel like I am in Philly again.

So here is the gossip overheard.....
The beard is growing the beard again ( much to his other halfs distaste), Dainty will collapse under emotional stress very soon, The beard secretly owns a car and is married in China, Dainty is going to sell every Kelly he owns and buy more Masi (Masi's? Masis'?), The beard will be retiring from 24 hour races this year and G is perfect in every way.

It's great being perfect, I tell ya.It's an oldie but a goodie. The 24 hours on the old pueblo (where this photo was taken) is coming up fast. My manager (I didn't even know I had one until he made my decision, not to race, for me) has signed me up to wrench for John Razberry (aka Jensipoo), Tofu Smith and his SS team, yay.

I have a new race kit that I will be showcasing at Pueblo. I haven't hammered out all the specs but, I will post my setup and after the race, my impressions and what I need to change.

Links

Samsung BlackJack
Keen Footwear
Pactimo Sportswear
Honey Stinger
Masiguy

Socks:
I love Bike Porn
iTunes:
Cake, "No Phone"
In the stand:
DeRosa Ti