Pedal Moraine

SNOW SHOE SALE!!!

2012-01-23T10:35:00.001-06:00

Check in at the shop and Save 40% on all in stock Redfeather Snow Shoes. Get them while they last!! M-F 10-7, Sat 10-4. 262-338-2453. Thanks!

new bikes

2010-08-08T22:33:00.002-05:00

Headed to the Trek dealer show in Madison on Monday. Get to see all the new Trek bikes that are coming out in 2011. Really looking forward to the new Gary Fisher Signature collection... I love me some Superflys. I'll be back to the shop on Thursday. Check in to see all the new catalogs and chat new bikes. Laterlater.

Skate Shop Sale

2010-08-06T13:08:00.002-05:00

Hey Everyone - Skate Shoe Sale! All in stock Etnies shoes are 50% off. All t-shirts and hoodies are 50% off as well. Check in and check it out. Great Deals til they're gone. Have a great weekend

Bike to Work Day

2010-05-27T10:43:00.003-05:00

Come out and join us for Bike to Work Day 2010 this Friday morning from 6:00-8:30 at Imagine Coffee House. There'll be goody bags, complimentary refreshments (coffee!!), a raffle for some great prizes, fix a flat tire demonstrations, and a lot of other cyclists to hang out with. It's a wonderful event that promotes cycling as an alternate mode of transportation for getting to work. Check this website for details. http://bike-to-work.weebly.com/

it's coming...

2010-03-24T13:03:00.000-05:00

Ladies Night...

2010-02-16T11:39:00.005-06:00

Click the image to embiggen.

Then come join us for Ladies Night.

Thanks.

Winter Wonderland...

2010-02-09T12:41:00.002-06:00

The snow is falling, the trails are calling. Stop in and check out our selection of Redfeather Snowshoes. They're a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors this winter. Come on in!

M-F 10-7 Sat 10-4 262-338-2453

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-05T10:15:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year Everyone!! We're kicking things off this year with a few specials.

Get a FREE t-shirt with the purchase of any bike. T-shirt supplies are limited, so hurry in to get yours now! Also, mention this post and SAVE $15.00 on any bicycle tune-up during January. Tune up your bike now so when Spring rolls in you won't have to wait to ride! Check in when you can. M-F 10-7, Sat 10-4, 262-338-2453. Thanks!

new window dressing...

2009-12-07T17:51:00.006-06:00

They're a little blendy with the holiday decor, but we got some new neon signs in the front windows. Trek, Gary Fisher and Fat Tire...

Check in for all you need for the Cyclists on your Christmas List.

From Tools to Trainers, we've got gifts for every Cyclist.

M-F 10-7

Sat 10-4

262-338-2453

www.pedalmoraine.com

embiggened...

2009-12-07T17:48:00.003-06:00

We know our roots...

If you get it, you get it.

only 24 days...

2009-12-01T14:16:00.003-06:00

Like the sign says... we're stocked up with stocking stuffers for the Holidays. From mini-pumps to Madone's, we've got everything the cyclist on your list needs. No place to hide a bike??? Buy a bike for Chirstmas and we'll store it til Christmas Eve for free!! Need to stay fit this holiday season?? We carry a full line of indoor cycling trainers from Cycle-Ops to keep you ride tuned all winter long. Stop in and test one today. And don't forget the Skaters on your list. We carry a full selection of decks, trucks, wheels, and bearings, everything you need. Purchase a complete and save 10% on the package. We have Etnies Shoes in stock as well. Stop in and try a pair on. Stop in and check us out in our newly decorated shop... Christmas lights everywhere spreading holiday cheer. Come in for a visit. 10-7 M-F, 10-4 Sat. See you at the shop!

it's got sole...

2009-11-24T17:13:00.002-06:00

Etnies Shoes. In the house. Stop in and check them out!

wood pushin...

2009-11-03T17:06:00.002-06:00

Hey all you thrashers out there... we got some new skateboard stuff in today. Girl, Real, Spitfire, Plan B and some others. Stop in and check it out. Later on.

nananananananananananananananana, Batman...

2009-10-20T17:08:00.006-05:00

This... well, this is awesome.

Also awesome...

All Jerseys, Shorts and Long Sleeve Clothing in the shop are On Sale!

got time to waste???

2009-08-31T21:59:00.002-05:00

An addicting time waster. Cause we've all got nothing better to do. I give you Effing Hail. Say goodbye to the rest of your day... thank you Interwaub.

strong drink...

2009-08-07T19:54:00.004-05:00

For those who like to have their coffee so strong

it's like a punch in the face...

Fisticup.

another candle...

2009-08-03T21:39:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Het

takin a break...

2009-06-04T14:18:00.000-05:00

Shop's been pretty busy. Takin a blogbreak.

Check back soon.

Later on.

go dog, go...

2009-05-23T10:15:00.003-05:00

Go get some Junior.

they're not that bad...

2009-05-21T08:55:00.001-05:00

When they're done right, I actually sorta like them.

a decade in...

2009-05-17T21:09:00.002-05:00

Ten years ago today was my first official day of work in the bike shop. It's been a pretty good decade for me. Rode some cool bikes. Met a girl... married her. Got a dog. Bought my own bike shop. Worked with my Brother. Yep, some pretty cool things have happened since that first day in the shop and, yeah, it's been a pretty good few years. I look forward to "looking back" over my next decade. Don't know what blogging will be like then, but check back in on May 17th, 2019 and I'll fill you in on how it went. See you in the shop...

at least he had an umbrella...

2009-05-16T13:11:00.003-05:00

Don't know how much good it'll do as a crash pad,

but it's keeping him safe from the falling rain.

a battle for the ages...

2009-05-15T09:50:00.000-05:00

mmm... bacon

2009-05-07T09:40:00.003-05:00

Portable Bacon!

run,bike,run

2009-05-04T22:36:00.003-05:00

Bob Z. at the Paper Valley Duathlon. Nice Jersey. Go Bob Go!

lookeylookey...

2009-04-25T11:18:00.002-05:00

Can you see it? This was across the street from the shop the other day, had to grab a pic. You know spring is in the air when the classic cars start coming out. It's a 'might happen someday' kind of hope, but one day in the future... I will park a Mustang in my garage. If the stars and planets and anything else that needs to be aligned got all aligned, it'd be the '66 GT350 that I got to drive on my wedding day... but that'd be a lot of aligning. Someday... someday. Later on.

works for me...

2009-04-21T20:57:00.002-05:00

Behold the healing power of Bacon!

get rad...

2009-03-26T22:05:00.001-05:00

really now...

2009-03-25T23:20:00.004-05:00

If I said that I've never texted, tweeted, twittered, IM'd or facebooked, would you think less of me?? Sure, I waste my fair share of time behind the old CRT, but really folks... do we need that kind of digital attachment at our fingertips all hours of the day?? I have an idea... unplug. Go outside. Ride a bike. Take the dog for a walk. Talk to a person face to face. Ditch your digital self for a minute, an hour, a day... forever, you might find things more relaxing. More enjoyable. More Real! It seems odd, me ranting about technology on a device using the very technology of which rant... but you're reading it. I have another idea... go to a park. Take a walk. But before you go, take your celly, your texter, your camera, your ipod, hell... anything with a battery (unless it's a pacemaker... they're important) and pitch it onto the drivers seat and leave them there. Go absorb some green space and fresh air for a while without being plugged in. Don't worry... if someone calls/texts/tweets you while you're out they'll leave a message. There's a whole lot of living to be done away from a big screen/small screen/handheld screen... don't forget to enjoy some of it once in a while.

***standing down from my soapbox now, I'll be in the shop...

top of the chain...

2009-03-24T22:13:00.005-05:00

One of my employees and his teacher were discussing survival techniques in the event of a Zombie Apocalypse in a class the other day. It went something like this...

Teacher: Josh, in the event of a Zombie Apocalypse, what would you do?

Josh: Grab the closest blunt object I could get to and then go find my boss.

I take great pride in knowing I'm furthering the education of my employees. Social interaction, sales techniques, business education and Zombie Apocalypse Survival 101. Nothing but the best for the staff at Pedal Moraine... class is in session.

Ohh Sh!t....

2009-03-23T22:26:00.002-05:00

smooth rolling...

2009-03-22T22:39:00.003-05:00

If every road was as nice and smooth as Hwy 45 between Fondy and Osh-Vegas I'd never get off my two wheeler.

remember... this is fun

2009-03-10T17:24:00.002-05:00

So I just rode to the grocery and back... and I remembered that this bike riding stuff is fun.. Must commit that to memory so as I remember to do it more often... ride a bike, that is. Warm and sunny this weekend (according to the weather guessers), I'll be on two wheels... how 'bout you?? Enjoy.

look down...

2009-02-23T11:41:00.002-06:00

So... refer to the post about winter a few down from here and you'll know how I feel about all the new snow.

Come out to the trainer party on Saturday. I'll be doing some free bike inspections... details here.

Spring is coming, it does every year, but cross your fingers for an early one this year... lets go ride!

Later on.

Hours Edit...

2009-02-10T14:57:00.001-06:00

I'm gonna go soak up some sun on the Gulf Coast of Alabaaaaaama this weekend, check the hours edit posted here. I'll be back next Wednesday. Stop in and visit the kids while I'm gone. Later on.

it's 60 degrees...

2009-02-10T11:16:00.000-06:00

GO RIDE!!

are we done yet???

2009-01-26T11:18:00.002-06:00

Who's with me on this one???

high score...

2009-01-18T21:37:00.006-06:00

It's been a while since I've done any trivia, it's time to get back at it. Here it is...

According to Mouth, what's Chunk's high score at Pole Position??

Answer: 1632 - it was the year on the map the Goonies used to find one eye'd Willy's treasure.

You all know the score by now... get it right and you get a discount. Come in with the answer by 4:00 Saturday and get 30% off any one regular priced item in the shop... that includes bikes too!!! (good through 1/24 - in stock stuff only). Come on over and visit.

And... Don't forget to check out the house cleaning specials on the stuff linked here!!

how cold...

2009-01-15T12:49:00.003-06:00

What's the coldest temperature you ever rode your bike in? I rode into work a few years ago and the Guarantee Bank clock showed -9 degrees. I stopped off for a cup of joe at Jumpin' Java and the ladies couldn't believe I was riding out in weather like that. They set me up with a cup on the house... Well, today I have to rescind my cold weather crown to someone new. I am no longer the 'king of kold'... I'm not the only cyclist in my house. My wife rides quite a bit as well. She has been commuting to work on her Gary Fisher Wingra for almost a year and a half, rain or shine. And today I'm adding freakin' cold to that list too. She bundled up this morning, snowboard goggles and all, and jumped on the saddle to ride to work. The Guarantee Bank clock showed -13 on my way in to the shop, she'd ridden into the office three hours earlier. So, it is in awe and admiration that I pass my crown onto someone new... my wife Ori, the new 'queen of qold', you rule the day.

what.?.

2009-01-10T12:00:00.003-06:00

I might answer a lot of questions on Tuesday with a "what? I can't hear you...". I'll be at the Metallica show Monday night (ear plugs not required). Like 'em or don't... they still rock their a$$es off playing live and I can't wait to get loud with some friends. Gonna be my fifth Metallica show and they've never disappointed, so here's to it.

Hope you all enjoyed a pleasant Holiday season and are settling into a groove in the New Year. Lots of time to get ready for the ever approaching spring riding season (is it really on it's way???). We still have trainers in stock from Cycle-Ops and Minoura. No time like the present to start training for the '09 season. Stop in and check out what's around.

one day only...

2008-12-30T11:12:00.007-06:00

New Year's Eve Sale!!
10:00 - 5:00
Wednesday 12/31

25% off Bikes
50% off Accessories and Helmets
75% off Clothing and Shoes

*in-stock goods only, no layaways, no other discounts apply, applies to purchases made on 12/31/08 only, some exclusions apply

special holiday hours...

2008-12-19T21:27:00.003-06:00

I'm going to be hanging around the shop on Sunday 12/21 from 11-3. Come on over, hang out, enjoy some cookies or coffee (nothing quite as pretty as the cupcakes above), and share in some holiday merriment. That and maybe buy some stuff... lots of goodies on sale, especially clothing (most of it's 50% off or more), to make good last minute Christmas stocking stuffers. See you 'round the shop. Later on...

broken pump...

2008-12-07T23:57:00.006-06:00

This weeks trivia. A simple question that requires a very specific answer.

Why don't the pump work???

Bob Dylan lyrics to Subterrainain Homesick Blues... last line "and the pump don't work cause the vandals took the handles"

Get it right and you get a discount. Come in with the answer by 4:00 Saturday and get 30% off any one regular priced item in the shop... that includes bikes too!!! (good through 12/13 - in stock stuff only). So far Dave H is the only one to come in witht the right answer, he must be the only one out there who knows how to use the internets. You have your question, get to it. Later on...

the trivia guy is wrong...

2008-12-04T21:26:00.003-06:00

So... what if I said there were actually four guys that had won the tour without winning a stage. Would you hold it against me??? My guy Dave got the answer right... he actually got it double right by giving me the "other two" that had done it. With that, I confirm my poor googler skills and will take any two of the four guys to have accomplished the goal. Dave is probably on his way in to get his 40% off, be like him and do me one better and come get yours.

Two of the four and get the discount below!!

Later on.

trivia time...

2008-12-04T12:31:00.005-06:00

Well it's time for some more Trivia. My buddy Tom was looking for some of the 'impossible trivia' I was thinking about in the last post. Well this might not be impossible but it should be a little tougher than "who's won the Tour 7 times??". Here it is...

In the 100 plus year history of the Tour de France, only twice has the rider wearing of the Maillot Jaune rolled into Paris on the final day of the race without a stage victory. What are the names of the two riders who accomplished this feat???

I posted late so I'll up the stakes on this one.... Come in before Saturday at 4:00 and let us know the answer and get 40% off any one regular priced item in the shop... and again, that does include bikes!!! (good through 12/5 - in stock stuff only).

There you go. More "where does he get it from" trivia for you guys (thanks for the motivation Tom). Now go get your Google on. See you around the shop. Later on.

And... Don't forget to check out the house cleaning specials on the stuff in the post below!!!

time to clean the hovel...

2008-12-02T21:06:00.013-06:00

Hovel:

hov·el - Pronunciation: \ˈhə-vəl, ˈhä-\
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English
Date: 15th century
1 : an open shed or shelter

2 : tabernacle

3 : a small, wretched, and often dirty house

Been cleaning out drawers and boxes and such and I have a few things that might be of interest to some of you. If you see something you want, drop a comment, call the shop or email me and I'll set it aside for you. Here's a list...

Wheelset: XTR hubs on 36H Bontrager Valiant Rims -$100

Wheelset: Bontrager Rhythm Elite 29er Disc Tubeless Ready - $SOLD$

Fox F80RLT 26" suspension fork - $125

Bontrager Race XLite Carbon Switchblade 29" Rigid Fork - $125

Hayes HFX9 Carbon Lever Disc Brakes F&R set - $150

2 Bontrager Race XXXLite Carbon Cages (17g each) - $SOLD$
Fisher X-Cal 29er Frame 19" - $150 as is

2004 Trek 5500 OCLV 120 w/Dura-Ace 10sp 58cm - $1300 as is

1995 Gary Fisher HooKooEKoo Ltd Ed Grateful Dead Frame 19" - $SOLD$

Selle Italia Flite Gel Flow White - $SOLD$

Then there's some blowout stuff in the shop too:

'08 Trek Fuel EX 8 19.5" Green - $SOLD$

'08 Trek Fuel EX 7 18.5" Silver - $1195

'08 Madone 5.2 (Bean's Demo) 56cm - $SOLD$

'08 Trek 2.1 58cm Blue/Silver - $SOLD$

'08 Trek 1.2 54cm or 62cm White - $500

Surly Steamroller Fixed Gear 56cm Maroon - $550

2 Panaracer Trailblaster 26x1.95 Tubeless (Possibly the last set ever...) - $SOLD$

2 Bontrager Jones ACX 29x2.2 Tubeless Ready - $25ea

Shimano Shoe Inventory - 50% off

So that's what's in my hovel that needs cleaning. Stop in to see it first hand if you like, I'm around all the time. The shop gets pretty quite once the snow falls, it's nice to have a visitor once in a while.

My brain dropping trivia will resume shortly, I'm trying to come up with a tough one... see how good you guys are. Til then, later on...

***good on what's here and only while it lasts...

trivia time again...

2008-11-19T00:46:00.007-06:00

Time to get the synapses firing once again... it's trivia time. This one is a little easier but the prize is just as sweet as last weeks offering. Come in before Saturday at 4:00 and let us know the answer and get 25% off any one regular priced item in the shop... and again, that does include bikes!!! (good through 11/22 - in stock stuff only). Go ahead and make some chatter in the comments area, work together if you like, but like last time... don't post the answer in the comments or the deal is off. So if you're ready, here it is...

Lance rode up a big hill in France and beat everyone else to the top. What was the name of the mountain top victory shown in the picture above???

Sestriere

Like with the last one, get your google on and find some info. Have fun and we'll see you in the shop with the right answer. Til then, later on...

voodoo economics...

2008-11-16T00:09:00.004-06:00

Anyone??? Bueller??? Anyone???

Well, no one came up with an answer. Bummerbummerbummer. Stay tuned, I'll have more bits of trivia to come. I have a wealth of useless knowledge clogging all the spaces in my brain that were supposed to be filled with algebra and trig... really, I sucked at math in highschool. I can tell you what the 'chief cells' in the lining of your stomach do (I liked me some biology), but as far as what the value of "x" is... consider me 'failed'. And now that you've a short history of 'why I run the bike shop and not the math department at Harvard'... enjoy the rest of your weekend. Later on...

trivia time...

2008-11-11T21:52:00.008-06:00

Get your thinking caps warmed up... it's time for some trivia. Get it right and you get a prize. The correct answer is worth 25% off any one regular priced item in the shop... and yes, that includes bikes!!! (good through Saturday 11/15 - in stock stuff only). If you know the answer, come see me and claim your winnings, but make sure you're in by Saturday at 4:00, the trivia question expires when I go home for the weekend. Don't post the answer in the comments either... if that happens, the deal is off. Here's the question...

Who was the first "unofficial" 24 Hour Solo Mountain Bike Champion and how did he go about winning it???

Now go get your Google on and start trying to find the answer. Have fun!

Later on.

Mark at the shop

hog farmer goes down hard...

2008-11-10T23:17:00.003-06:00

Farmer Hoggett crashed out hard recently.

Babe the pig might be on his own til he's out of the hospital and back on the farm... I'm sure that smart little bacon sandwich will do fine, he seemed to get by ok in "the city"...

No idea that James Cromwell was an avid cyclist. Hope his wing heals quickly and he can get back on the road again.

dammit!!!

2008-10-27T21:26:00.007-05:00

Rolled into the shop today 'round 10:00 like usual. This morning was different than the last few though, I could see my breath... inside! Well not really, but it was scant few degrees over freezing in the shop... 54 degrees to be exact. It was at that point that Beans and I caved to toughness and turned on the heat. First time all year. It proceded to snow on us for the first time this year a little later in the day as well, so I guess turning on the heater wasn't completly unwarranted.

Beans got a new Fisher Wahoo built up today, one of the nicest looking sub-$600 bikes I have seen in a long time. Come on over and check it out. While you're in check out the Clearance Clothing and Shoes we have in marked down... some screaming deals to be had. Catch you at the shop... Later on.

what can brown do for you...

2008-10-22T11:23:00.003-05:00

Looky looky. Brown brought us some new Bontrager Cycling Shoes!! Road, Mountain & Street. Great looking, great fitting. Stop in and check them out.

And with the addition of the Bonty shoes, all remaining Shimano Cycling Shoes are discounted up to 50% off. Get them before they're gone!!

get your stuntwood...

2008-10-21T21:56:00.003-05:00

Head over here and spend 10 minutes watching some sweet shredding. It's worth the time. Those guys in the pic all show up for a trick or two... The sound is scratchy, the video is grainy, but it's an awesome taste of where skate came from. And speaking of skate...

Skateboard Clothing is 50% off!!! Tell all your friends.
Skateboards, Trucks, Wheels, Bearings & Hardware are all 10% off too!!!
Really... Tell Your Friends!!!

Trek Fuel EX Special...

2008-10-17T14:59:00.004-05:00

Today's Scared Stiff Special...

A 2008 Trek Fuel EX 8, size 19.5.
Spooktacular Sale Priced at a Scary $1799.99!
Reg Price on this one is $2449.99... Frightening Savings happening at Pedal Moraine!
Here's the specs.
Get Scared into a New Bike Today!

spooktacular...

2008-10-15T21:19:00.003-05:00

Halloween Sale Starts Tomorrow!!

Tell All Your Friends!!

Clothing, Helmets, Shoes, Accessories,

and Best of All... BIKES!!!

Stop in before these Spooktacular Prices Get Scared Away...

now in color...

2008-10-09T22:03:00.003-05:00

I've been absent for what seems like a long time. Wait... it has been a long time. I'll make it up to you with a box of color. Got these in today, felt like I opened up a time capsule. When's the last time you saw any neon green in a bike shop... 1987??? It's kind of cool, having some color on the wall, it brightens up the floor a little.

Fall is definitely upon us. The tree behind the shop is clogging the gutters with all the leaves it's dropping... ask Beans, he was up on the ladder cleaning them out this week. The temps are falling but that isn't the worst thing. Personally I think this time of year offers some of the best riding all year long. Not too hot, not too cold, and the fall colors are close to peaking. Good rolling. We have some cool weather gear in to keep the you cozy as the mercury drops in stock. Some gloves, beanies, leg & arm warmers and a few long sleeve jerseys and tights. Check them out if you want to keep warm.

There's my sales pitch for the day. I'll try to get back into regular posting, gotta have something to read during lunch hour... right? Til next time, roll on. Later.

Random Evening

2008-09-25T00:23:00.002-05:00

It's past ten. I know because my Beamer Five is hard at work and the hot summer air flows across my bare arms and legs. Summer nights arrive late here in the northwest. I find myself blazing down Hawthorne heading to the homestead. I don't quite remember how I got here, whether it was to throw a DVD in the return bin, or a quick stop at Freddies. Maybe just a late night at work. However, it's amazingly quiet and the city lights are giving off an unusual glow. The type of light that will put you in a false mood. It's almost a mixture of sunny and cloudy at the same time giving off a funky yellow hue. I'm happy though. It's warm, dry, and I'm spinnin' circles down the right lane of traffic. Most of the time this street is owned by the cars. That's just how it works in Portland. Some streets are owned by the autos and some are owned by the cyclists. As in any city though, come a certain time of day and it just don't matter.

I'm not breaking a sweat, but I'm still rollin' a good pace.(I like to ride fast. If I wanted to go slow I'd walk.) Lost in my own thoughts I hear a car roll up from behind in the left lane. As it rolls up to pass me it slows down. Within an instant the adrenaline starts flowing and the heart pumping fast. "Damnit!!! Am I going to get messed with?" My gut is turning. The black SUV staggers for a second(felt like forever) and then the rear passenger window rolls down. We are skirting a section of road with few lamps, so I can't see inside. A voice projects out "Excuse me, Sir"-("please don't screw with me" I'm thinking as I reach back to make sure the U-lock is handy. He continues "Do you happen to have any Grey Poupon?" Laughter explodes from the vehicle and they are off with a loud noise of acceleration. Within as much time as it took the adrenaline to start flowing it was absorbed right back in my veins. The heart rate fell back to normal and I was able to take a deep breath with a long sigh which allowed me to look up, give a friendly wave and say to myself with a big grin(of humor and relief) on my face "Damn,... That was good." I laughed myself the rest of the way home.

First installment of Stories From the Northwest.

More to come........Keep your eyes peeled.

Scott

the details...

2008-09-16T22:33:00.002-05:00

Here goes some details...

Friday morning the alarm sounded it's joyful noise at a too damn early five o'clock. If you know my sleep habits, that's about three and a half hours prior to my standard wake up call... but the road was calling. I'd packed the van and strapped down the bike the night before, so Coffee was my only focus, but man, at fiver in the AM, anything is a challenge. Beans rolled in about 6.15 and we hit the pavement headed toward GB. Made Tom's house in good time and was greeted at the door by his two awesome kids (and another cup of coffee). The rest of the party met up with us shortly there after and we got back to rolling. A great morning so far. Started toward Wausau, 29 is a great road, nice and smooth. We started running into more bikers as we got closer to, and then through Wausau. Chequamegon is the same weekend as the Tomahawk Harley Rally, was fun to be out on the road with so many other bikes. Took a lunch break in Minocqua, was nice to have a bit off the bike. As we neared our destination, the roads got better and better. Might have had something to do with getting farther and farther from civilation. Hwy M into the Telemark Resort was the highlight of my day. Middle of nowhere, with rolling hills and almost changing trees, it's a beautiful stretch of road. We made the Telemark around 4.30ish, and man, it was good to be done. Roughly a 10 hour day on the road covering almost 350 miles, I was ready for a nice sit down in the recliner, which is exactly what I did.

Saturday morning came quickly. I could have used another hour or two of shut eye, but the Fat Tire waits for no one. Headed out to the start under overcast skys. Hoped they'd stay dry, but it wasn't to be. Got up to the starting line party and looked around for friends. Saw a handfull of people we knew, then it was to the line. Well, more like the back of the line. The starting cannon sounded and off we went. Well, two and a half minutes later we went. Starting that many people at once takes a lot of time. Down main street Hayward to Rosies we rolled. Now I'm not a super detailed race reporter, so I'll do my best. Fun, fun, fun, fun, hungry, fun, fire tower hill, fun, rainy, rainy, fun, fun, fun, finish. Rolled the Fly into the finish chute in a shade over 4 hours. Not the fastest I've gone, not the slowest. No cramps this year either (bonus). Headed from the finish back to the town house, took a well deserved hot shower, then a nap. This guy was wore out.

Sunday morning was a lot like Saturday... it showed up too fast. Had a long day of riding ahead, so we packed up and hit the road around 10.30. Same route we rode up, just reversed. Stopped off at the Musky Shoppe in Minocqua for Dave. As we went to leave it started drizzling. Great! Rain gear was donned and we set off again. Lunch in Wausau, then east to GB. Thanks to Tom for the mid-afternoon coffee, I needed it to get home. Left GB for the WB. made it in a bit before 8.00. Another long day, but a great day.

Overall I had a great experience at Chequamegon. It was three long days, but they were well worth it and I can't wait til next year. Top marks to Tommy who not only rode up there and back with me, but finished his maiden 40 in under four hours. I'll have to put in some more miles next year and better my time a bit to keep up with the rest of the house... seems I'm the last one in every year. Glad I get to be a part of the weekend. Good friends, Good riding, Good fun. Thanks all. We'll do it again next year.

Later on.

made it...

2008-09-14T21:48:00.001-05:00

Got there, finished, got home.

Sleep now.
Details later.

get some...

2008-09-09T21:12:00.003-05:00

Ape hangers, an extended springer fork and a custom made wheelie bar???? Go figure I found it while spectating a chopper website...

Headed to the Telemark Resort Friday morning for my ninth annual Chequamegon Fat Tire 40 Festival. Have to swing into Green Bay and pick up Tom, Dave and Rebecca from The Bike Hub first, then it's off to the races (literally). Don't remember if I've shared this already or not, but Tommy and I made the (looney bin worthy) decision to ride our motorcycles up to the festival this year. A long day in the saddle on Friday, a long day in the saddle on Saturday, a final long day in the saddle on Sunday. I wonder how it'll be shaking out hamstring cramps at 65mph on the back of a Harley??? I've always had a great time at Chequamy, I don't doubt this year will be anything but a blast. Good friends, good trails, good times. Can't wait. I'll report in when we're back, let you know how that 65mph hammy cramp went. Later on.

Snowman...

2008-09-02T21:36:00.003-05:00

Jerry Reed passed away today.
Watched Smokey and the Bandit a bunch as a kid. Loved his character.
Rest well Snowman, rest well.

skate or die...

2008-08-27T20:37:00.002-05:00

idiot...

2008-08-17T22:17:00.003-05:00

Ahh, the multi-tool. In this case, the Park Tool AWS-9. A staple of every rider's seat pouch, or at least everyone stuffs one in the van for those "just in case" moments. Unless your're me. If you're me you think everything's gonna be fine, besides, I tightened those bolts, of course they're tight. Yeah... MORON! I'm rolling into my third lap up at Greenbush today when I hear a loud noise. In my head I figure it was the blow off valve on my fork. Then I hear it again. Then again, but now I feel something too. Damn, my bars are loose. Where's my multi-tool??? Dammit! It's in my toolbox... IN MY BASEMENT! I limped the fly in, hopeing there would be someone hanging around the trailhead. No one. Damn. Pack it up, drive it home. A beautiful ride foiled. Undone by my lack of multi-tool. Tell you what... On Wednesday when I'm up there again rolling the fly around the purple loop, you can bet that there'll be a multi-tool in my jersey pocket... just in case. Later on.

to arms...

2008-08-10T22:14:00.002-05:00

Felt a little like Don Quixote on our way up the lakeside this morning. To arms Sancho, we must battle and slay the great beast! Ori and I rode around Lake Winnebago on the motorbikes today. Our route took us up Hwy W which, as we now know, runs along and through one of the new wind farms WE Energies is constructing as a renewable energy source. The are kind of mesmerizing as you're riding into a great field of them, have to remember to pay attention to the road so as not to end up in the ditch. They're a whole lot bigger than you think as well. From Hwy 41 they look like little tiny tinker toys, but when you're underneath them you get a better feel for how big they are and how fast those blades travel. Past our adventures battling windmills, we stopped at what might just be the biggest tree in WI and marveled it's presence, we saw some bitchin cars at what I think is a restoration shop in Sherwood and had lunch at Arty 'n Ed's in Oshvegas. It's a great little drive in on Hwy 45 just as you get in to town. I'd drive around the block twice for one of their Coney Island hotdogs and a mug of their rootbeer. All of these places are most visible from a bicycle as well. A lot of riders loop the lake on the weekend. I think it's about a 70-ish mile ride with lots to see and lots of places to stop and rest/re-fuel as needed. On our way home we stopped off at the 'Burst to say hi to friends and riders participating in the weekend's WORS race. Saw the General, the Lieutenant, the Captain and the King (Coffee King that is) out pedaling their a$$es off in the race, hung with the rest of the gang (including Thunder) at the tent and cheered. Hope everyone had fun and enjoyed the day on the course. Chequamegon is a few short weeks away for this guy. I'm gonna cramp, I feel it coming already. Between now and then, roll on, roll on. Later.

glory in a can...

2008-08-02T22:56:00.003-05:00

Vintage Sun-drop. Mark want. I make it to Shawano once in a while, they have this stuff in glass bottles up there. Yeah, glass. They also have a Luigi's Pizza up there, where, yes, they serve Sun-drop in glass bottles. Best pizza on the planet served up with the sweet golden nectar that is Sun-drop. Might have to point the motorbikes towards the great mid-north-west metropolis of Shawano and have some pizza and 'Drop for dinner tomorrow. Later on.

hitched...

2008-07-21T22:43:00.004-05:00

Freak is getting hitched this weekend. I'm headed up to return the favor he did me when he was my best man. He and his bride are tying knots in "30 miles from the middle of no where, Canada" (and I mean that in the best way Carm). Me and Beanser are both headed up there, leaving the "kids" in charge of the shop. I refer to them as "the kids" but they're far from children. A bunch of top notch youth these "kids" are. Boss, Bru-kaer, Jake-tastic, Zachers, T-Lath and the Patawon. Stop in, say hi, bring them food... Me and beans will be return from the northland in about a week, we'll catch you then. If you're so inclined, drop your well wishes in the comment section here, duders checks in pretty regularly. Off to Canadia... later on.

eyes wide...

2008-07-18T14:26:00.001-05:00

Keep your head on your shoulders.

easy thinking...

2008-07-16T21:43:00.003-05:00

Was out running errands today and ran into a friend I hadn't seen in a while. Quick catch up chatting led us to talk about how many bikes we'd been seeing around. More than we'd remembered as "normal". Chatting of course covered the price of that stuff that makes cars go and how it might be effecting bike sales and use. While exchanging disgruntled views of that topic, a sentence with no premeditation, a thought, bright like a ray of light, came to me. Ride a bike. It's fun and it's free. Time was that I had to get back to erranding and my friend had to get back to officing, but we agreed as we parted that a statement so simple, yet on point, as that couldn't be wasted. Well, here's me not wasting it.

Ride a Bike! It's fun and it's free!

Holy Crap...

2008-07-08T09:45:00.001-05:00

Kevin Bacon is 50 today. Damn, where did the 80's go???

rollin on...

2008-07-01T22:06:00.002-05:00

Me and Ori are leaving for a little motorbike trip tomorrow morning, bright and early. We're headed around that pond to the north of us, I think it's called Lake Superior. Yeah, I checked, it's the biggest of the Great Lakes. HOM&E don't have anything on this S. First stop, North. Way north. Then some west, then more north. We don't head back south for about four days. All goes well (and why wouldn't it??), we'll be back Sunday night. Til then, roll on. Later.

ready to go...

2008-06-28T08:44:00.002-05:00

It's 8:45 in the morning on a summer Saturday. I've already had a mocha pot full of espresso and a triple americano. I may have ingested enough caffine to reach the LD50 of a alpaca. If you don't hear from me again it's because my heart jumped out of my chest and exploded during a sale check. I'm off to brew a pot of Grace Jones. Barring any unforseen heart explosions, I'll be back later. Enjoy your Saturday. Later on.

original thought...

2008-06-26T23:01:00.003-05:00

Mark Gonzalez circa 1984. Changed everything?? See Max at 4Q... he's got way more background than me. There's not much original thought left in the world, Mr. Bast taught me that in 1993. I figure there's no harm in sharing this. Thanks Max.

afternoon jumpstart...

2008-06-24T14:00:00.003-05:00

Dragging a little bit, could use a bit of a kick. Yeah, that'll about do. Some one get me a Redbull!!!

bummer...

2008-06-23T23:16:00.003-05:00

“I think it’s the duty of the comedian to find out where

the line is drawn and cross it deliberately.”

George Carlin

1937 - 2008

on the way in...

2008-06-10T10:16:00.002-05:00

Saw Bob on the roll into work this morning, got a big thumbs up wave. Bob rides about 30 miles a day. Mostly through the neighborhoods and in town. He's got a Trek 4300 with close to 20,000 miles on it. Yeah, that many. He's out there as soon as it warms up enough to clear off the roads and he stays out there til the snow covers them back up. Yeah, 30 miles a day.

I forgot to mention Bob is 82.

Roll on Bob, roll on.

Uhh...

2008-06-02T22:35:00.002-05:00

Random braindroppings and stewed thoughts have been at an all time low as of late. I think some stole my brain and left some over cooked broccolli in its place. It's with that in mind that I give you this. Sword fighting monkeys, as viewed by monkeys in top hats. Enjoy your day... I hope to enjoy mine. Later on.

13...

2008-05-16T08:11:00.002-05:00

Ori's Bike To Work event went off stupendously this morning. There were 13 people there, all riding and smiling. A few had to peel off early to make it to work on time, but 13 people... a great start to what hopefully will become an annual event.

Good Job Ori!

good day today...

2008-05-14T22:59:00.007-05:00

So I pulled on my Magic Johnson jersey today. The Lakers weren't really ever my team, but his number suits me well. I'll have to change to Kareem's jersey next year.

Had a good day. Coffee at ten, Januli's Pizza for lunch around 2:30, out of work before five bells, riding the new horse by 5:30. Got together with a new riding partner today, Scott from Gehl, and we rolled an abreviated Heart Ride. Good to get back on those roads again. It's been too long. The chicken farm didn't stink yet and the climb up Kettle Moraine drive just north of 28 didn't kick my arse too bad. Ended up being out for just about two hours, was a great ride. The legs feel heavy** tonight... better than feeling dead. Like I said, glad to be rolling again.

**earlier tonight, while surfing ebay for comics, I got a hammy cramp that was so bad I fell out of my chair. Maybe, just maybe, I pushed a little hard for the first time out... Now it's Tiger Balm to the rescue.

Check this out if you've got a chance. Friday AM at Riverside Park in WB there is an open invite to join in a ride celebrating National Bike to Work Day. Refer to the notes above, or just show up with your bike (and helmet...) at the park at 6:45ish. The ride rolls at 7:00 Sharp! Don't know about you, but 7:00 in the morning is pretty early for me. I'll have coffee in my waterbottles, gotta wake up somehow. See you there!!!

reaper can't catch me...

2008-05-13T20:56:00.004-05:00

Happy birthday to me... Got me a new horse in the barn. Made a couple minor changes, but it's finally ready for the road. Now to get some warmer weather and take some time to roll. My summer crew is still two weeks from full strength. Once they're all in I hope to get some later starts and earlier evenings and log some miles. A few years ago I did a loop around Long Lake that I really enjoyed, hope to roll that one a few times this summer. It turns out to be almost a perfect 50 miler from home. A little long for the standard morning rides, but it is perfect distance on a day that I go in for a noon start. I'd set goals for how far I want to ride this season, but if I don't reach them then I'm let down. So instead of setting number goals, I resolve to do this. I will ride my bike and I will enjoy it as often as I see fit to do so. What ever your resolutions or goals are, I hope you remember that this thing we call biking is about having fun and enjoying yourself. Train hard and ride long, but don't forget to smile. See you on the road.

breakfast of champions...

2008-05-07T00:32:00.004-05:00

Can mere mortal words describe the pure and unadulterated love I have for this??? Not likely. Time to get me some breakfast! Mmmm, bacon-y long johns......

Gooooooooooo...

2008-05-04T22:47:00.002-05:00

It's that time of year again, WORS Season is upon us. The Bump & Jump at Iola was today, I think I heard Don yell "GOOOOOOOO" from here, where I spent the better part of my day. It's a tough thing, running a bike shop in the spring time, there's not enough time to ride. Or not enough time is taken to ride... that might be the more correct way of stating that. I'm looking to change that though. I got back on the two wheeler for the trips back and forth to work, now I have to get my arse out of the warmth that is my bed before eight bells and get some morning rides in. The Thursday night rides are starting up. Last week we had three, but with the threat of rain and cooler temps, three is a good start. Double that this week and we'll have six. Come on down, the more the merrier.

Congrats to all the racers who took part in the racing today. A high five to the dark horse of the day. Guess Joe does more than build choppers. Check out his other wheels here. Nice job all. Later on.

Riding and waving...

2008-05-02T10:54:00.002-05:00

Saw Gene on my way into work. He was rolling his new Surly CrossCheck we put together for him. He was cresting Oak St. hill with a big smile on his face (or maybe it was a grimace). We shared a quick "how ya doin" and kept rolling our own directions.

It feels good to be back among the people.

bike month...

2008-05-01T11:31:00.001-05:00

Today is May 1st. It's the first day of National Bike Month. I rode to work today. Did you?

Rollin 40...

2008-04-28T21:52:00.003-05:00

I got the best piece of mail I get all year long today. My entry card for the Fat Tire 40. Thanks for grabbing the right envelope Gary.

Things at the shop have been going at the pace of a rocket powered cheetah for the past few weeks. I haven't been around here too much because of it. Been feeling a little like this lately...

Ah, it's a passing phase... get me another cup of coffee! Soon Summer will really be here and then the fun will really kick into high gear. Maybe then I'll have the energy to ride more... wait, to ride more I'd have to ride at all. Been meaning to change that. Now that I'm a card carrying Chequamegon participant, well, I guess it's time to roll. Later on.

Simple request...

2008-04-17T22:51:00.002-05:00

Apparently our friends Creepyfriendly and The Darkness got sponsorfied by Surly. They all have brain dropping spots like this one. You should read them. They won't make you faster. They will make you smarter. Stole this from Surly's ramblings. Read and enjoy. Later on.

Off the grid...

2008-04-10T22:24:00.002-05:00

I've been off the grid for a few days now, haven't been posting a whole lot... wait, I've not been posting at all. Mostly it's cause I've been here pretty much every waking moment for the last two weeks. Pedal Fest has been rolling along like a runaway locomotive. We're sending a lot of happy new bike owners out the door, smiles and all. A little good news (wait, this is great news), I got into the Chequamegon Fat Tire 40 Festival for the ninth year running. Now I'm really gonna have to get some miles in, it's a long race that 40. Our Twin Six stuff showed up today. Very cool. It's class and flash at the same time. Blend those together and it's London Calling.

The clock is flirting with late and the pillow has the tractor beam set to maximum pull. I'm off to catch some rest. Enjoy the weekend, I'll be back next week. Later on.

Boxcars...

2008-03-31T21:04:00.002-05:00

Twinsix Clothing.

Got some coming.

Differentiate or Disappear.

Ridin'...

2008-03-30T23:06:00.006-05:00

Got out on my bike this weekend. It was warm enough to go enjoy a few miles on the new to me machine. I got this last year but changed it up some to better suit my liking, or as my buddy Tommy at the Hub would say, "maximize my enjoyment". After a few miles this weekend, I'm ready to roll. I've got a trip planned (wait, that's my wife who did the planning, I'm just tagging along) to ride around Lake Superior over a long weekend this summer. I can't wait. There will also be a trip or two to Luigi's Pizza in Little Suamico (just north of Green Bay) cause it's the best pizza on the planet. The weather is coming around, the snow is melting and the bikes are rolling. I'm stoked, how bout you?

And for those keeping count, I rode my other bike this weekend too. That makes twice so far this season. I think I've last year beat already. Mark's back on the bike??? Did I hear that right??? Well, after a few years "off", it feels good to be back in the saddle again. Later on.

Nooooo...

2008-03-20T22:26:00.002-05:00

Boo! Hiss! Boo! They're wrong 98% of the time. Let's hope that holds on this forecast! And I thought Spring was here... right. Be Wrong... Be Wrong!

The first time...

2008-03-19T21:06:00.002-05:00

I rode my bike today. Outside. Yeah.

Ori and I went out with the remaining daylight and enjoyed a nice easy spin on the roadies. Felt good to feel the legs move and the lungs breathe and the wheels roll. Can't wait to do it again!

Pedal Fest starts in two weeks... I'm counting down the days, are you???

Should call it...

2008-03-17T23:53:00.003-05:00

March... Why do we call it March when really it's just February II??? It's Monday night (11:55) on February II, 17th, and it's snowing. We're closer to April than we are February I and getting snow. I love February II. For more love on February II, listen to this guy around 8:10am on the best morning show around.

That's Rich riding up there. It was taken last winter, but it fits the mood. We're all scratching to go ride and the Good Lady of the Earth keeps toying with us. You like those mid forties??? Well, have some snow. February II isn't over yet....

Odd jobs...

2008-03-13T22:56:00.002-05:00

If yesterday I'd written a list of things I thought I'd do today, shoveling the warehouse roof at the shop would have had as much chance of making the list as me winning the lottery. I'll be sure to add winning the lottery to tomorrow's list, cause sure as the sun will rise in the sky, I shoveled the warehouse roof today. Beans and I were fighting the "Great Warehouse Flood of '08" caused by said snowy roof for the better part of the morning. No worries though. We prevailed over the great deluge and the warehouse is dry again. Just when you think you've experienced everything there is to experience in a bike shop, bang, you're on the rooftop with a shovel.

On the brighter side of things, it topped 50 degrees today. Beans got out for a spin, Ross stopped in on his two wheeler, the world seemed to come alive a little bit with all the outdoor action I saw. Hope it continues, there's no such thing as having too much spring in the air.

Saying goodbye...

2008-03-12T23:37:00.002-05:00

With much respect,

I wish him smooth roads and tailwinds forever.

Dick Burke

Co-Founder of Trek Bicycle Company
1934 - 2008

rollin' on through...

2008-03-11T23:09:00.002-05:00

I feel so...

2008-03-10T23:17:00.003-05:00

Was a good day today. Lots done today, lots to do tomorrow. I love me some bike shop in the spring. It's coming....

Let's see your flair...

2008-03-06T22:38:00.004-06:00

Can you count 15 pieces of flair??? I saw this pic over here and I swiped it cause it made me laugh and it referenced one of my favourite movies. Thanks Max. Past that, not a whole lot going on. Getting some new road bikes built for some customers today passed some time. Girl was in again, finishing up her MTB (Athena... I remembered this time). She and the gang are counting down the days to their vacation to the mountains of North Carolina. Beans thought about tagging along, but then looked at a calander and remembered it's almost go time (see post below for a story about that). Oh yeah, I'm still thinking warm thoughts. You should be too. Later on.

Days off...

2008-03-05T21:50:00.003-06:00

Ferris gets one, can I have one too??? It was my day out of the shop today, so naturally I spent the better part of it here. Go figure. It's a good sign though, working on my day off that is. It means that five foot snow banks or not, spring is coming and people are starting to think about their bikes again. Beans and I have been busy getting things ready for what we affectionately call 'go time'. Had parts to order today, bikes to order today, parts to merchandise today, bikes to build today, yeah, we're getting close to 'go time' for sure. I was able to sneak out for a while, had to stop here and pick up my books (or as Emily might call them in her snootiest fake British accent, graphic novels). I'll enjoy the reading tonight, tomorrow it's back to the grindstone, if a bike shop can really be called a grindstone. If I'm lucky I'll get to tinker with this a little (yes that does have a motor and it is in the skateshop), but chances are I'll be busy all day and it'll have to wait. Back to the daily grind tomorrow, coffee's hot at 11:00. Later on.

They're here...

2008-03-04T21:10:00.003-06:00

Don dropped these off today. If you didn't get one in the mail, stop in and pick one up. While you're at the shop, check this out. And this too. Third time's a charm, check this out too. Thinking warm weather thoughts... later on.

Got balance...

2008-03-03T21:44:00.003-06:00

Trials Riding. Now that's come cool stuff. I used to think I was a trials rider, practicing wheelies and nose stoppies in my yard. Trying to hop up onto picnic tables. Generally just fooling around on a bike built for the trails, not for the trials. Then I found out about what trials really was. Yeah, I gave up on that dream. I missed the 'crazy insane balance, hold the fear' gene on the menu of life when it was my turn to order. These guys are nuts in that all too cool way. I remember way back in my early days of WORS (yes, I had early days... scroll down to #262) thinking the rock pile in the parking lot at Nine Mile in Wausau would be a cool place to try some of that trials stuff. Couldn't even get my wheel on the first rock. A few years after, I actually saw a guy with an actual trials bike doing some stuff on there... huh, was my idea first. Well, like I said, I hung the dream of becoming a trials rider out to dry early on, and my shins have been thanking me since.

Sneaky sneaky...

2008-02-28T23:04:00.005-06:00

Someone has been tearing days off my desktop calander and not telling me. Very sneaky. Very Sneaky. When Winter begins, it seems to be an endless span of cold, dark, boredom. But upon further review, Spring is only three weeks away (officially). An even closer inspection of the calander that someone sneaky keeps tearing pages off of shows that, ready or not, Pedal Fest is only five weeks away. That's right. In five short weeks we'll be one day into our biggest production of the year. I feel pretty good about where we are now compared to years past. The store is set up in the layout that we're going into season with, the warehouse is full of bikes due to Bruce's masterful wrench, and the product looks good on the floor. So even though it was only 23 degeees today, the sneaky git that keeps tearing days off my calander only has 35 left before it's 'game on'. If anyone knows who's responsible for all this sneaky, let me know. I'll be at the shop looking for him, ring me there.

Gold star to the person who know's who this guy is, what movie this is from, and when his birthday is. Gold star!