Biking At Home Dad

Grand Depart. Sept 24, 2021

Wow. Such an experience! My first bikepacking 'race' .... and despite cutting the intended full 8 short, due to family illness back home that needed me to return after the Southern lobe, it more than delivered.

It's hard to put words to the experience, but as the rhythms of the daily grind return, these experiences tend to meld and warp . So while my knee-pit is still chaffed and grundle still sore, I put some words down.

It's a Race , but transcends any previous notion of bike race, that I had.

Typically during a race, you don't intend to stretch personal ability with strategic balance of sleep , nutrition, and forward movement. Usually nap monsters don't strike - that strange full body sensation that has you peering into the woods spotting wonderful places to dose off. As I slept fairly well - 4hrs cold and damp first night, and 4 hrs warm cramped in sheltered location the 2nd night - intense fatigue held off so I could maintain descent pace throughout. The exception was just south of Montpelier- looks so close on the map, but some big climbs lingered. Nap desire hit hard after climbing a dirt road before a long and steep doubletrack climb and descent. A gorgeous sun bathed home with the most perfect looking apple trees and freshly mown grass lingered as I crawled up a dirt road. The beckon of the nap was strong. A kind looking elderly man sat in a chair, sending welcoming vibes,, "come sleep under my award winning apple trees and I might give you some cider" his wave seemed to say. A large sign confirmed the awards . . But I kept moving. Until the double track, where I immediately laid down in the curve of the trail and slept for 45min.

Grand views and stoke enticing descents throughout. What a great route!

Funky cockpit was light and fast. Italian made VAP Cycling aero bars with 'butterfly' bar ends for a low and fast position (setup is for sale, reach out)

DAY 1

132miles, 15,837 of up : Strava ride

What a great large group. Maybe 50 riders left the State house in critical mass form, splitting on Main St into the North and South destined.

The first day started with rain, a steady gentle warm rain. Not really a problem, but if you had any intention of keeping your feet dry that notion left quick. What a beautiful start. Within minutes you're in the glory of VT ; rolling hills, unassuming homesteads. "Just never go hard and keep going" was some advice at the start. But not for me. Finding my rhythm includes hard out of saddle efforts. Speaking to Logan Kasper, FKT holder, a couple weeks prior at the Dirty Pizza ride, he gave me the confidence to not be affraid to go hard. Looking back, riding rhythm was critical, and the diverse terrain made it interesting and easy to get into a groove. Until night, then I had some challenges. My rhythm is more impacted by stopping, which I did too much of. Stops for gear adjustment due to pesky ill-designed, for fast techi riding, front handlebar roll. And too many food stops . I had calories backing up calories and didn't quite have confidence in regularity of provision stops.

Bertrand, the race leader got a healthy lead that I didn't close until Brattleboro. I stoppped in Chester in the evening for a long while - a huge mistake. I missed the last store by 20min or so. Knowing that there was a lack of food until Brattleboro, I prioritized stocking up. Friday night was busy at the hotel restaurant. 20min for a burger to go and 'quick' chef salad, turned into an hour. A Jersey drunk at the bar distracted me further. Finally I hit the trail with colder temps and lights on, to Pete's Camp. If I had known Pete's would have had food (thnk you!) I would have skipped right through Chester , maintaining pace with Bertrand, likely.

I rested at Pete's for 30min and kept moving, sleeping for the night on a trail, damp and cold. With good pad and bivy, I was warmish in my puffy and leggings, until bivy condensation mounted.

Day 2.

119miles 13,740' of up : Strava Ride

I stopped for water at someone's vacation home. TIdy yard and kid's toys told me that the water quality at the sill cock was likely good. I ran the water a bit and filled up my bottles . Upon coming back to my bike I heard, 'Can I help you'. It was a wifi door bell security cam. 'Uh, I'm just getting some water, hope that's okay'. 'Oh great, have a nice ride where you going?', the door bell said. And so I had a connected conversation with the landowner I trespassed on.

The sun brings renewed energy. I stopped and bathed in it for a few minutes before flying into Brattleboro. Vermont country deli re-up . Such terribly slow service but I basked in the humanity chuckling at the sequence dazzling Covid masked new yorkers. Then took a look at Tracker. Some funky stuff with GPS... because Bertrand appeared to have been staying in Bratt for a while. I rested, and planned my strategy. As he was on a gravel bike, with my mtb skills and proper rubber, I knew I could overtake him on the reportedly rugged Stage Rd section between Bratt and Bennington. He would be faster on the roads, but he's still in Bratt. Little did I know, but he had departed long before... doh ! Lesson learned- don't trust the GPS tracker.

Stage Rd was awesome! Mostly rideable, maybe 90% , with full out of saddle efforts. This section kept going and going. I definitely do NOT recommend riding it at night. I got splashed by an aggressive quad driver, but I don't think she intended it. Some other ATVers gave me some water, so karma balanced out. It's sad to see the forest so decimated by ATVers- so much mud and erosion. But such is the motorized enthusiasts that keep lots of these trails clear for us.

Moments before some ATVers came , music blaring , Dunkin in hand, and wake splashed me. Walkable, not rideable water crossing 80% through Stage Rd. rugged section.

Bennignton had some pizza and considered buying a sweatshirt for sleep as temps were dropping. Hosed my bike down, re-lubed and off to chase Bertand, who was well ahead now, maybe 20 miles, with long road section ahead, I knew he'd fly. I had a tentative goal to get tot he bike path in Rupert and sleep . Lots of road on this section north of Bennington. Big climb by a spooky house with chained dogs. I’ve been here before, and this house has some crazy farm animal squalor in the side yard. Climb into the wilderness trying to keep my headlamp off as much as possible to maintain battery. Lots of animal sounds , owls…very beautiful slow pace climb with some walking. A couple hours later near 11pm , a mammoth descent toward the NY border and the bike path. The last dirt road descent was grand - maybe 5 miles of downhill , into town,. It was near midnight and as I aero tucked down the hill, the temps dropped, significantly.

There are so many microclimates in Vermont. Upon packing Thurs night before the race, I made the choice to not bring my 40 deg quilt, relying on a puffy and bivy to keep me warm. The weather forecast said temps would stay in the low 50s with cloud cover keeping heat in. But the skies were clear and temps near 40.

As I bombed down hill, I knew I couldn't sleep outside and get any solid rest. Google report no lodging options anywhere near (apparently there is a B&B trailside in Granville, I later discovered) . I could keep riding to stay warm, but knew my rhythms would get way off as the sun came up. I needed to sleep for a few hours. I found a location protected from the elements and slept for a few hours

Day 3.

117miles 10,154' of up : Strava ride

3.5 hours later I was up and out, feeling pretty good . Target: coffee and breakfast.. which didn't come until way too long. At this point my body was feeling tired with some slight knee pain, which got worse later in the day. But watts were still being put down. Where did Bertrand sleep? His load looked really light, I'm surprised he was packing gear for the cold the night before. Sunday morning so no stores were open early enough, no gas stations in site. Then I get a text from my wife that she has a 102 deg fever. Nice, good thoughts about covid potential, for pre-caffeine motivation. That sucked for a while, until the beauty of the silent Sunday morning brought me to the moment. . I stopped at Analog Cycles , hoping they'd be raging an Aeropress at 7am on Sunday. No go, but a couple bikes hanging by a fire pit along with a floor pump I needed to get my PSI back up from Stage Rd deflate. At 8am, a store is just opening. Coffee is on and huge egg sammys. I sit, dazed, and banter with the local Sunday crew for a few minutes and then crash out on the grass. Another sandwich to go and I'm off. Few hours later my wife tells me she's feeling really bad. We talk about support for her while I'm away for a few more days: cousins , friends, and even our dog's friends' people. We talk contingency if it is covid - kids and school and mayhem that wrench in all our plans, that would ensue.

Early morning at Analog Cycles , Poultney . No people in sight, but shop door open and bikes enjoying the fire pit embers

Epic egg sandwich after riding through sunrise fueled by water and bars.

Sun's out , road side apples, horses galloping in the meadow, and deer looking at me funny with stag-like aero bars. This section was fast to Brandon, a posh town. That's when the message from Llama my wife came. ' Sick and getting worse, I need you home' . Yes dear. AFter the South lobe, I'm done. I take a moment in Brandon, have some coffee and a snack, banter with the film crew about my fortune, and decide to take no gas off. 'You basically have Brandon gap, another big climb, and you're done' the camera dude said. Yeah right. To finish this ride, I need to go strong, despite the change of plans. Brandon gap was no sweat , slow heft with earbuds jamming. The hills to follow as it got dark were much harder.

The last 20miles took a long time in the dark. I ran out of water and said f'it. Ate bunch of road side wild apples. Chew them up and spit them out. For the juice, but not the fiber.

Apple snacks throughout the route. Yum

With 10 miles left, get a message from Llama. 'Go for it, if you need to'. friends bringing food, ibuprofen working great. She sees on Trackeaders that Bertrand is still chilling in Montpelier, getting some good rest. She knows how much I'd like to push int on the North Lobe. Sheesh, what an emotional roller coaster.

Cruised into Montpelier, still not sure of what to do. I'll have some classy pizza, maybe a ThreePenny burger and make the call. Sunday night, Nothing open. Even the Indian place is closed. Dominos closes in 20 min. Order some crappy pizza and drive to get it. Set up luxurious car camp and think. I have to go home. 2 days more, and a lot could go wrong at home. All the worst case scenarios come to mind. What if Llama and the kids DO have covid, despite the negative test. Shit , what if I have Covid, and these body aches are symptoms being amplified.. crazy shit. But I'd just rode 370 miles, 40k of up , in 2 1/2 days. I sleep well and head home after coffee and few pastries.

Next year I'll be back in some form or another.

Congrats to everyone that rode the Super-8 this year. Congrats to Bertrand for setting a quick pace and keeping those race motivations flowing.

Thanks to all who make this route possible and keep the community spirit strong.

Forever grateful to Hampshire Bicycle Exchange in Amherst, Real Pickles in Greenfield MA, and Kitsbow Cycling Apparel for the support and nourishment.

Random thoughts on gear and setup.

pack last minute. weather is so critical and varying . Give yourself a few scenarios and then pack accordingly. Mind the VT microclimates!

I'm sold on Mtb aerobars, great efficiency and varied body positions.

Dynamo Sinewave Beacon was outstanding.

2 water bottles is adequate

2.3 Mezcal up front, 2.25 Terreno out back. Perfect for my mtb riding style

Music helps the mind.

Shimano xt 1x12, 32t chain ring , 50t out back (maybe 51? Garbaruk cassette)

80mm Redshift suspension stem was amazing , especially with rigid fork. I adjusted elastomers when handebars loaded- stiffer than typical due to weight of load and aero bar position

Ti frame gave piece of mind when bombing down rocky class 4 - had a few rock strikes that would make me nervous with carbon.

We set out on the New River Trail from Galax, VA in late June 2020.  This 43 mile trail snakes along one of the oldest rivers in the world. The New River is part of the Ohio River watershed, passing through the states of NC, VA, and WV. It is estimated to be between 10 and 360 million year old (that’s a range!) .   We settled on this gravel path for a biking adventure due to its length, remoteness and ease of logistics. 

Although every other trip and bike endeavor has been cancelled due to COVID, we kept this trip because of our need as a family to getaway from quarantine miasma, and due to the remoteness of the trail and confidence we would be safe and properly distanced. Traveling during COVID certainly adds to the logistic challenges. We brought all our food for the drive, and opted for ‘nature pee’ stops over gas station etc. 

Along for the ride was Iver, 4 , Eleanor, 7 , and our aussiedoodle pup, Zero, 6months.  We carried in all of our food and camping gear etc.  Along the route, occasional potable waters spickets and ample porta-potties , though stores were nonexistent. 

Each kid rode their own Early Rider bike and had various ways to be supported by us parents. Llama was on a Jamis Renegade gravel bike. And I was on the venerable Surly Big Dummy cargo bike - a steed that made this trip possible due to it’s hauling capacity. Zero rode in a Burly Tail Wagon trailer , and jogged when we went at Iver’s slower pace. 

In 3 days we covered 43 miles. It was manageable, properly challenging, and entirely exciting! We camped for 3 nights and ended our trip at an airbnb. The next morning I rode the 43 miles back to the starting point to get our car.

Before digging in.. I’ll remind you that family (or any!) adventures start the moment they are planned.  Just put something on your calendar and the fun starts.  From the planning, to the excitement of the kids, to figuring out the unknowns, (acquiring new gear) - the adventure starts as soon as you set the intention. After a few trips like this, the logistics get really easy. Family bike adventures are low cost, super health, challenging, and clearly support confidence in our kids. Do it!  

Photos tell the story best of all:

We coupled this trip with a visit to family in Asheville, NC, so there was A LOT of driving. Using google maps we found green-spaces, parks, and  arboretums to stop at. Often for 1-2 hours, to properly romp the dog and the kids. 

Zero had the entire trunk to himself, yet often preferred to nuzzle between the kids. Cuteness galore. 

Perhaps it could have been packed with more grace. The Surly Big Dummy just swallows gear and is stable under weight. The dog trailer by Burly is not the lightest pull-  I call this training weight. Even a 1-2% grade change felt like a big deal. 

Llama had the heavy food and a Follow Me Tandem for occasional Iver towing.

We rarely rode for more than 1 hour without stopping at one of the many shelters and picnic spots. 

The New River Trail was beautiful and well maintained the entire way

One of several tunnels - very exciting .

Family bike trips may lack in romance, but they deliver in connection and sense of accomplishment. Before the end, we began brainstorming a trip for just the two of us. 

Amazing camp spot near Fries Junction .  Private beach, naked swimming, glorious sunrise, and really weird bugs. 

Speaking of weird bugs.  We deemed this creature a Dragon Horse Fairy Fly . (4″ long) 

Zero claimed the second picnic table as his own

Eleanor , 7, was amazing as she pushed herself to ride 95% unsupported 

Iver , 4 , would hammer for a while- up to 7 miles continuous ! -  and then get some support. This Follow Me Tandem is an amazing piece of gear.  

He could even fully chill out on the Big Dummy. 

Sometimes Big Sis helped out

Smiles despite the grime at camp. JugWa and mac and cheese 

Sugar fuels

We got caught in a violent thunder storm. Sideways blowing rain soaked us fast. We just huddled and laughed at it. When there is nothing to do, but get to next camp, you can enjoy the unexpected. 

Wet dog 

Beautiful long tressles. Llama wasn’t too psyched about this one

#coffeeoutside 

camp at Foster Falls. Every night we slept by the rushing river.  It’s amazing how quickly camp routines fall in to place.

Iver hamming it up....all the time. This was seconds before an underwear malfunction that resulted in him soiling his only pair of shorts...and this sign.

History abounds

Along the entire route there were amazing rock formations and cliffs 

The final 3 miles were rough. We left the trail and rode up 2x 300′ hills.  It was hot and we had to manage cars. Dry mango, shade rests, and promise of ice cream , kept us moving with little fussing. Our Airbnb was along the river, with some splendid swimming. We dried out our gear dined on fine frozen pizza, beer, and a large beef bone for Zero. 

The next morning I mounted the naked Big Dummy and retraced our route in under 3 hours (15 mph !) to get the car. 

We highly recommend the New River Trail as a family cycling adventure destination. No frills, rugged, and beautiful.   

Everyone needs a custom ti singlespeed. They just don’t know it.  When you know you do, you’ll know you do.

I love this bike.

I designed it. Dmitry and the Triton Bikes crew created it. It has a Russian doll sandblasted on it. 

Triton Bikes is a stellar company and I give them a lot of credit for this bike- it’s super strong, light, and beautiful. Triton is doing good things for humanity and they are truly inspired by the bike stoke that flows the world over: good peoples. 

Just a few weeks after I received the bike, it was put through a formidable test-  TranSylvania Epic stage race. Recently it was tick-and-click-free at the Shenandoah Mountain 100. It rips up and down.  It’s only seen gears for a bikepacking trip in Basque Spain with my son, this summer, which it was perfect for.

Some thoughts and reflections

The first couple rides, I thought it was a bit flexy. But that’s coming off a stiff carbon Pivot LES for 4 years or so. Titanium rides differently. Once you get used to it, it’s butter, it’s smooth. I like it more than carbon. There is more of a dance involved with the terrain, yet once you get how it responds it's quicker and more predictable. That’s all I can say.

The geometry was inspired by the Pivot LES and the Canyon Dude fat bike- a somewhat longish bike.  Note I say ‘longish’… I am the first to say this geometry does not represent the new school long and slack. Perhaps this is a middle road conservative path.  Yet for the tight New England tech trails I ride, and a few bike packing trips each year, I think this is right. If I were working with a local builder, I may have delved into a longer Front / Center bike. I really like what 44 Bikes is doing, for example. With that said, this bike works for me. I’m still learning to go faster on it.  I think it’s spot on. No need for full suspension.. really I have no desire for a full squish bike since adding a dropper and having room for 2.6 rubber.

Dmitry at Triton was a pleasure to work with. 

As a freelance energy consultant with a somewhat large builder client base, I know the pains of providing custom service to folks;  offering value without cookie cutter deliverables is not easy because people are crazy complex emotional animals: we expect too much most of the time.  

My process with an overseas builder was positive because I trusted their experience, gave many months of lead time, replied immediately to emails, and did my homework before engaging-   I knew what i wanted and was willing to take responsibility if the geometry and priorities I communicated, were not perfect.   I only made 2 small changes since providing my original geo spec- thanks to some hardheaded yet smart MTBR contributors. 

Speaking of geo spec.  I”m 5’10, 30.5” inseam.  A standard Medium in most bikes. The intention was to run a 55mm stem but I ended up on a 70...so maybe reach could have been longer?  Who knows. Who cares. It’s dope.

Geometry

Reach : 446cm Head Tube :  68 degree Chain Stay:  420mm (slammed) Seat Tube Angle: 74 deg Wheelbase: 1142mm BB Drop: 63mm fits 2.6 tires /optimized for 2.35 120mm fork frame <4 lbs. target

Build

Headset & T47 BB -  Chris King Cane Creek eeWings (fuck you, totally worth every penny)  Absolute Black 34T oval (special eeWings edition :) Wheels: i29 P321 chinese carbon (trail)  &  DT240 XMC1200 (race) Fork: Fox 34 120 SC Pedals: XTR Brakes:  XTR Trail Bar: Syntace SuperLight 12 degree , 750mm Stem: Syntace MegaForce 70mm (Enve for Christmas honey, please) Dropper:  BikeYoke Divine SL 80mm  Grips: ESI Racer Edge & Ergon small winged for endurance  Cages: King Ti Cogs: whatever I have left with life- Endless, Chris King, WolfTooth Chain: who cares. 10spd  Weight: No idea. 20lbs in XC mode, maybe

Next bike:   once I know what geometry I want, is a Ti Adventure Bike (aka Gravel All Road whatever) . This will take a few years. Yet once I know, I’ll know. 

As a father of 3 I had high expectations for a solo Father’s Day long weekend getaway. Dirt, the unknown, the wildcamping... a different kind of adventure from the daily constant-party of having 3 kids at home, work, routine etc etc.. And just like all proper vacations and adventures, the trip starts as soon as it’s on the calendar. Bikepacking is so simple, yet the constant dialing in of gear and of route, amounts to hours of late night planning and assessment - should I take the full length sleeping pad, or the 3/4 length that weight 100grams less? 

Some thoughts and photos of the trip below.

My Ride With GPS Route: Green Mountain Gravel Growler- 3night Abrviated note, some POI (camping , food etc.) I did not visit. Others are from the BP.com original track. Strava, day 1/2  Strava day 3/4

The  original Green Mountain Gravel Growler route and information

My expectations and hopes were high. The plan was to follow a slightly altered Green Mountain Gravel Growler route, covering  220miles (20,000′ of up) in 3.5days. I expected rolling hills, great views, some river swimming, and of course excellent food and beverages. High mileage days, unknown track- pretty much an ideal few days. 

Meh... is what i have to say about this brewery...overdone and maybe because there are so many other options, but Heady T isn’t what it used to be. 

My 3.5 day abridged Green Mountain Gravel Growler entirely and fully  over delivered.  In addition to meeting my expectations of challenging mixed terrain miles, I was energized and in awe of the architecture and the people I met. The quiet and reserved homesteads melded into the landscape. There were plenty of impeccably maintained homesteads and sagging funky farm houses. The ‘fabric’ of the landscape and culture was pure VT .

Like there are micro climates on each side of a hill, where forest patterns change and cool breezes come and go, the cultural and physical fabric varied. It takes a while to notice this, but as you go through multiple backwoods dirt road communities you sense the subtle changes in society and land development.

Looking back, I say it felt like 2 weeks away in 3.5 days. True. My body feels great and strong, my excitement for further summer family riding and camping is ramping up.

when was the last time you asked a farmer to camp on her land and woke at sunrise to the sounds of birds all around you?

Met a lot of young rippers out there. 

The people (and Angora goats) I encountered in Vermont were welcoming and not overly chatty. The annoying New Yorkers that flocked the trendy breweries stuck out and were almost physically repulsive in context to plain and simple friendliness the village store cashiers, old guys fishing, farm girls, diner regulars, and artist communities that I encountered. One bickering family of New Yorkers were so annoyingly arguing about nothing at all, that I had to leave the building. 

Of course as a brewery tour the trip did not disappoint, mostly because where there is good beer, there is good filling food. The tour circles arguably the IPA capital of the world. I did not linger and have a few of anything. It was all business: rest the legs, slow sip enjoyment of tasty coldness to lighten the brain,  and keep going.… My favorite beer? This sour. 

Yes, this Hogback Mountain Sour was my favorite beverage on the trip, found at the hopping Saturday Waitsfield Farmers Market  Apparently it pairs great with Yak sausage topped with eggs.  Everything on sample by Hogback was excellent...I almost had another. But Lincoln Gap was an hour away.

My first night, I camped with these folks. IN just a couple weeks, the boystrous crew cut a barn frame. The crane arrived for the raising the morning I left. After having ribs at Lost Nation in Morrisvegas (Morrisville), this hearty band of timber framers, invited me for smoked meat and beers! and a hot tub soak! 

Said ribs. This brings us to the bike and gear.  The GT Grade carbon Ultegra. It is a great bike. It’s a fast gravel ripper with a very very comfortable and unique rear end - slender compliant seat stays that soak up so much. It’s super light and very durable - I have ‘underbiked’ a lot on it and it has always impressed with it’s composure. 

Gearing:  I was on a 52/36 - 11-36 Ultegra drivetrain. Ideal for me, would have have been a 38t x 11-42 ish 1x drive-train.  The 52 chainring was great on a few occasions but really not necessary. A dropper post and beefier tires, 40mm>2.1”, would have been welcomed on this ride. 

Bags are all Revelate Designs, I’ve been amassing over 5-10 years. First ride with the Tangle framebag and it was great as it forced my knees apart a bit, keeping them healthy and mashing pedal stroke composed. 

Huge shout out to Hampshire Bicycle Exchange in Amherst for helping me get kitted out over the years. And to Northampton Bicycle, for the Grade and last minute help dialing in my new  cassette (thanks Neal!) 

Unknown to me, this field led to splendid singletrack that dropped into Montpellier. 

 The GT Grade can only take up to a 35mm tire.. but I think I found a perfect match: The WTB Cross Boss 35mm are fantastic semi-aggressive durable tire that roll well on roads. On this trip I dialed in the pressure between 30ish and 55 psi a few times and the tires responded fantastically. (Grail/DT240 wheels. ) 

As a mountain biker first and foremost that enjoys exploring rough trail, I am better suited for one of the new breed of 27.5” Adventure bikes. Ibis Hakka MX, next Warbird, or similar ti custom is on my list. Isn’t it amazing how there is always an N+1 vision that will genuinely up your riding ? 

yes please. 10am coffee stop.

TIP: Weed out necessary stuff. Load up at home and ride uphill for a few minutes. You’ll get a sense if you’re carrying too much weight (probably are) , before starting your trip. Make a list and edit it at the end of your trip, for the next one. Carrying too much is okay when you’re traveling flat, but if your route has a lot of climbs - go as light as you can!

one of the best coffee experiences of my life. 

Favorite gear items: Bedrock sandals. I purchased these after seeing them on bikepacking.com  They are my favorite footwear. Each long break, I took off my stiff Sidis which made a huge difference in recovery and general enjoyment. Highly recommend these sandals. 

Shelter: Nemo Apollo 3. 

 In need of a 1 person shelter option, I bought the Nemo Apollo 3  . I found it for a crazy good price and it over delivered. Hardly any weight, easy to setup and pleasurable to sleep in . I’ll echo other reviewers by saying this is NOT a 3 person tent.  1 + bike/gear or 2 + gear only.  It’s nice to know that in case of severe rain , I could have brought my bike and packs in the tent with me. The Nemo mesh bivvy was great on one night when mosquits were bad.  

Weight - After day 1 , I unloaded about 3-4 lbs of excess- giving it to my cousin in Craftsbury: ‘extra riding and camp clothes, sleeping bag outer layer for 30degrees, rain gear, battery lipstick storage, heavy bar light.  This made a huge difference and I feel no loss.  I slept in my warm layers, wore the same bibs each day, and got rained on in my riding clothes.. no problem at all . I am confident that I could have ridden forever with my setup, assuming regular food stops. It took several trips,  but I think my list is dialed now. Food- meat sticks , occasional chocolate, and electrolites were all I carried. The Epic brand bison, salmon, venison meat bars were a particular favorite that I found all over. 

Tip: keep some meat for beastly dogs!  I almost wielded a large stick to defend myself from a large territorial dog coming down in Waitsfeidl. Fortunately a taste of dried salmon allowed me to throw the second piece, and bolt down the hill to safety.

Maps, route building, and tech Garmin 820 for turn-by turn. I forgot to put in auto-sleep mode and burned through 50% in the first couple hours. I never had an y problem running out of juice. Iphone 7plus with GaiaGPS downloaded maps and route for backup , phone in airplane mode. I paid for the RWGPS $6/mnth version to easily edit the original Growler Route, added a bunch or points of interest, and then uploaded to Garmin and GaiaGPS. My confidence in route building and nav has increased tremendously.

singletrack for breakfast!

Route improvements and notes: Out of Little River State Park, mountain bike singletrack would be a better climb. Look at the trails on OSM or Strave Heatmaps and map some switchback climbs  to the higher singletrack and forest road. 

Heading South of Montpellier, it would have been preferred to stay on the Boyer St Forest singletrack (awesome trails!) instead of bomb down the extremely washed out road.  Tip: Wild camping.  Use google maps to scope out potential wild camping spots and add them to your route as points of interest. I added a couple potential spots in each landing spot. Even though local advice and invitations were much better, it was nice to know I had some options ready. I also scoped out friendly looking farms ahead of time( CSAs, homesteaders, etc)  one of which provided an amazing camping spot. Next year, my teen son and I hope to bikepack in Europe!  Cheers!

EFTA, Kenda Cup East.  Singlespeed win. Should have bee 4 laps.

There is just something about Weeping Willow that I LOVE. The course is both mellow and controlled yet fast and intense. Judgmental as I am of Eastern MA courses (flat, overly twisty, lacking of technical challenge, etc etc.), Willow dale strikes a chord and I will look forward to every year.

Pointless Preamble:

With the Kenda Cup East Singlespeed title in the bag, my intention was to mix it up and battle in the geared Cat1 30-39 class on my Pivot LES. Being a single speeder is lonely and some facebook heckling upped the motivation. Most folks don't like riding with us as we go fairly fast up hill, seem to be always be drinking beer, and generally don't know how to 'chill'. I love comparing my times with the geared 30-39 class, and they’re usually decent. However, I ended up sticking the (relatively) large SS class to battle Paul Simoes, who has candidly whooped me in all other races, and because the super smart race organizers put the Singlespeeders behind the Elite class. This meant that in addition to getting to ride with Crystal Anthony a bit, I made the Dirtwire highlight reel, not intentionally, I'm sure. Yet more significantly, the geared cat1 classes were in the rear and I could focus fully on going fast, catching Elites, and not passing 150 dudes. The result of all this was a very lonely race. It was quiet, very personal, and hard - just like a satisfying bowel movement, though with even more sweat.

The race:  

The course was awesome- even better than last year, though could have been longer (4 laps!). Fast yet never boring. The climbs are challenging and switchbacked just in time,  perfect for pushing the ‘right’ gear. There are lots of passing opportunities, and the roads sections were just long enough for recovery but not boring.

I did not pace myself much until the final lap, which I thought was my second to last lap. I crossed the finish line pumped to hammer my last lap and see if I match Crissman's time this year... but alas it was all done, that's it, put your pants back on. Next year I'm doing 4 laps because that is what is proper for this course. There is not much to say about my race except I had too much pressure in my tire and had to ride a bit monkish- 'accept and find the flow, look on the bright side' (faster on the flats ).  Note to self: Don't trust other people's pumps. I was around 25-27psi where I should have been 21-23psi. Cornering took a bit more focus and some sketchiness was had.  

The start/finish area was packed with racers, which was great to see. However there are some feng shui improvements needed- cramped gate openings, race crossing in the corner, food/water better positioned. Overall it was a great time and excellently organized. (don't get me started on long podium wait time- a topic of a different bitchy post, but something that needs to change in all races IMSO)

Iver (8 mnths) repping the Real Pickles/ Hampshire Bicycle Exchange/ HIS & HERS Energy Efficiency team colors. 

Aside from the leftover slow cooked pork rib, there is nothing finer in my fridge than the two jars of Turmeric Kraut. The newly released Real Pickles Turmeric Kraut is truly a nectar of the ((god(desses)((s)) :  a well balanced combo of local super fresh cabbage, the mythic root turmeric (also local) and a tad of black pepper, which enhances the positive inflammatory superpowers of the turmeric.

Real Pickles did it again - the Greenfield MA cooperative has so many delicious products. The new Turmeric Kraut  mildly tart and tangy yellowish concoction is deliciously crunchy and leaves the proper ‘git-up’ in your mouth, like a good salsa.  Note it is not called, "Turmeric Sauerkraut'. It is just 'kraut' . This is a harbinger of the epic-ness this fine delicacy will soon have among foodies. No clarification is needed. Just Turmeric Kraut. In my house it’s just TK.

Reportedly- because how the hell do I know- there are billions of beneficial bacteria alive within this fermented jar - actually within each bite. Kraut, like many, (all?) naturally fermented foods is one of the awesome super foods, even if it’s not technically a ‘super food’. You know these foods. They are hip healthy energizing performance enhancing foods that our ancestors have been eating for millennia and we just discovered.  I figure if I eat enough of these I'll ride my bike faster and will look better. These foods include coconut oil, beets, ginger, garlic, turmeric, kale, goji berry, seaweed, apple cider vinegar...and more. Eating these at least takes me away from my favorites (addictions) including muffins, pastry, galettes, scones, cupcakes, challah, french toast, and challah french toast. These are less performance enhancing.

My wife considers my passion for fermented foods one of the weird reasons she loves me. We have jokes about them keeping me ‘regular’ and when I open the kimchi jar at 7am- before she has had her tea-  she leaves the kitchen and if she's pregnant, she nearly vomits. There is a time and place for all Real Pickles goods:

Pickles for a snappy zingy, slightly erotic eating experience

Pickle juice for hot summer endurance mountain bike feed stations

Beets for when you only have shitty salad dressing and on all else

Ginger Carrots when you ned to impress your pot luck

Kimchi to spice up that dish and to add some shazam! to your mouth 

And there’s more too

These days I find myself preferring the Turmeric Kraut pretty much all the time. It's a side with my eggs/kale/bean breakfast staple. A healthy dollop goes on my lunch salad or sandwich. It's always out with dinner.  Yet I know it’s truly really my favorite because at 10pm when I storm the kitchen like a hungry beast to eat 1/2 the almond butter jar on a tip of celery, the Turmeric Kraut satisfies my munchies.

Since Real Pickles is only sold in the northeast, within proper low-carbon range of where the veggies are grown and the fermented foods are made, I suggest you beg your cousin to send you some. Or if you're lucky enough to live in range of a supplier, then go stock up. It keeps forever and I might eat it all.

5 out of 5 Real Pickles, well done.

I'm finally fat. The trainer in the cold basement will sit idle for most of the winter. I built up a beautiful green Salsa Blackborow frame and carbon fork and am delighted with the outcome. The bike is more nimble and responsive than I expected. The geometry feels dialed and actually similar to my Pivot LES race bike - long  sloping top tube and compact chain stays. I went with the frame only as my Salsa Selma Ti was ready to be gleaned of it's 1x SLX drivetrain. Cranks are Turbine Cinch with a 30t Absolute Black Oval chainring. For wheels I went with DT Swiss Big Ride , 80mm and the well loved 4.8" Bud/Lou tire combo.

Complete, the bike probably weighs right around 29 or 30lbs. with tubes. My first tubeless effort failed and waiting on more sealant for another go. The bike feels a lot lighter than 30lbs. It climbs fantastically, a feat I accredit to the tight rear end and excellent geometry. It is very balanced; even weight distribution front and back keeps everything controlled and allows me to intentionally shift weight around for technical maneuvering. Not once has the bike limited my confidence in descending technical features or [rideable without studs] hairy ice-coated terrain. On my local single track, I can maintain the same rhythms that I can on my 19lb Pivot LES singlespeed, though the pace is a bit slower. A few extended climbs require more of a slog where I am reduced to spinning instead of powering up.

Salsa designed an excellent value in this bike. It is a very capable and fun bike for the aggressive mountain biker, yet holds true to it's go anywhere philosophy for those looking for the regular, or occasional fat adventuring. In this regard, I think the AL frame is an advantage over carbon, which I would be concerned to damage tackling nasty lines the fat tires drool for. I love the Salsa Alternator dropouts - used them for SS racing for 2 years - and would feel confident taking this bike anywhere knowing that even with gear bit failures, I'll be riding home.  

My only beef with the bike is the wide Q-factor (width of cranks and therefore pedal position) . The 189mm Race Face Turbine Cinch cranks have plenty of clearance with the chainstays, yet the spindle is too wide- I have to use 12mm of spacers to fit the crank. It would be great if Race Face had a narrower spindle in-between their 169 and 189mm models - like a 179mm.  I have heard the Cannonade Hologram cranks will fit on the 189 race face spindle,  and have a reduced Q factor, but I'm not ready to buy more crank arms to experiment. Unfortunately, the wide Q will probably negate my using this bike for summer bike packing with 29+ wheels or 3.8" rubber. Perhaps I'll get used to it, or find a  ‘dale set to play with. The huge Q factor, though common with big tire bikes,  feels a bit too horse-like for long distance dry weather hauling.

If I win the Power Ball, my next fat bike might will be a Pivot LES Fat, which looks to be an engineering marvel and even more multifaceted than the Blackborow. Yet the Blackborow is a better value for the working man, and will put countless smiles on my face. It will keep me outside during the cold season, allow me to tow my kids through the snow, and since it’s so much fun, I gather I’ll grab it in the fall and spring as well. The Blackborow is a very capable and fun bike.  I got my frame/fork from Hampshire Bicycle Exchange in Amherst, MA. Their service was great and they have (when the snow finally flies) regular shop fat rides for all abilities. They have several fatties on the sales floor.

Though the Surly Bud/Lou tires are great, studded tires are becoming increasingly necessary in New England with strange freeze/thaw patterns.

Domnarski Farm, located in Ware MA is one of the quiet Root 66 races that exemplifies what is special about New England XC racing: course variety that kicks your ass as soon as you think you're getting used to what the ground throws at you. It is fast, has a fair amount of sustained climbing, and rewards good bike handlers as well as fast spinners.

The fast 10mile lap starts with a long climb that can be powered up . There isn't much room for recovery at the top before swooping single track takes you through some rideable wet sections. Speaking of wet sections, the muddy chunky bog and stream crossings benefit a rider with good handling skills. If people complain about these mud sections, then they suck or should walk and let others ride - everything is entirely rideable and necessitates that great balance of speed and momentum.   There are several (3?) long climbs that hurt a bit,  yet the fast chunky wide descents give plenty of time for rejuvenation .  The last 1-2 miles is a bomb down to the finish, which is an excellent way to finish... until you get to the swimming pond, which is the real finish.  

This past Sunday I raced my single speed in the 30-39 geared CAT1 class (2 laps) , 32x19 gear. After opting for the stupid chunky steep high line on the initial climb where I passed a couple guys bobbling as their gears clinked, I just kept hammering and never looked back. Racing in the geared class I had a clear single speed strategy : win on the hills and let it rip on the descents cause they'll beat me on the flats. What else could I do? I had to go my own pace on the first climb or I'd be behind some dude spinning slowly up the hill.  Plus the sound of derailleurs clinking tends to harsh my mellow.

It was  a lonely race but I didn’t mind as the forest was familiar and reminiscent of places I learned to ride in Amherst circa 1994 on my Bar Mitzvah Mongoose IBOC. I had a blast. My time was 2nd fasted on the day: 1:50:12. 15 seconds behind Scott Hood, 40-49 cat1 racer, and minutes up on the scant Pro field.  This Sunday I'll try the Open/Pro class at Pat's Peak (edit: I got my ass kicked but it was a great course!) before some weekends spent with my family, Big Dummy, and lots of carbs and calories to prep for the next Kenda Cup East race, The Gnar Mystery Venue (edit: Diamond Hill, Cumberland RI)  race in early July.

I was thinking about my 'training' and how I'm going to achieve my singlespeed bike racing goals in the next few years. The funny thing is that I don't train... at all.  I basically ride my bike in the woods 2-3 hours/week, commute 1 mile to work, and bike my kids around.  With 2 kids and a fetus in the oven,  my mid-week rides are usually during lunch breaks or while Leif, my teenage son, is at violin rehearsal.  Basically, riding my bike fits in between other stuff going on in my life.

Yet I'm getting faster.  Here are 10 reasons why: 

(Disclaimer- I am not a pro. If getting to that level is your goal, more saddle time, discipline, and 'training' is certainly required)

10.  Ride good, simple tech

I'm on a Pivot LES SS with a Magura TS8 fork, ChrisKing wheels, Syntace bits, and the svelt Next SL crankset. Losing almost 4lbs from my bike last year has definitely helped me go faster.  I really appreciate simple, dependable tech. For instance, the Magura TS8 SL fork takes me 10minutes to service and is very consistent in it's travel... so it's a winner. I'm happy leaving the constant tweaking required by swinging pivots and shifty bits, to the other guys.  

9.  Have at least one great local shop(s)

My sponsor Hampshire Bicycle Exchange is staffed and owned by great folks who are super helpful, and committed to bringing more bikes to the masses. They do a large volume of consignment, and really live and work according to the 'Adventure By Bike' ethos.  To get faster, you need support - someone to help you true your wheels, get you parts fast etc.

8. Eat meat and Kimchi

My pregnant wife vacates the kitchen when I open the kimchi at 7am. But my gut loves it and so does yours.  Eat as well as balance in your life allows, but definitely eat fresh vegetables and fermented foods.  Real Pickles in Greenfield, MA  makes the best fermented food on the East Coast.  Try their product, your gut will thank you and you will go faster.  I think a slow carb, protein rich diet is best for me ... but I love the occasional french fry, beer,  and pizza . Eating with reasonable awareness is about all I can expect of myself.

7. Drink pickle juice while racing

Not the vinegar kind, but the naturally fermented type (again, see Real Pickles). Drink it while racing and never cramp again. This really works for me. I also love Skratch labs and have drunk the Feed Zone DIY koolaid.

6. Foam roll and Stretch

Every night I roll on the foam roller and small spiky ball. It hurts so good. Stretch for a few minutes each day and your muscles will recover faster and will work harder.  Occasional chiropractic work coupled with deep tissue/fascia body work has been integral to recovering after pushing my limits.  10-20 minutes before bed is all it takes.

5. Practice kettlebell swings.

It's not lifting or even working out. Do it for the sake of doing it, like a buddha practice, not to get stronger. You're hips will get strong. I plan to do Turkish Getups and Goblet Squats, but haven't gotten there yet.

4. Have two wheel sets.

Hit your local trails with your buddies on heavier wheels than with what you race with. This is a good way to greatly extend the life of your favorite racing tires also. My favs for racing are Schwalbe Racing Ralphs, which have very soft rubber so they wear quickly on rocky terrain.

3. Stand and breath slow.

Gears or no gears, stand more and hammer. If you control your breathing, you'll get to a point where you can recover even while slogging up grueling climbs.  I sometimes envision Nino Sheurter while racing. He attacks every climb, yet always seems composed.

2. GO HARD to find, then expand, your edge.

Be one with your bike, maintain balance and always find where your edge is.  I don't use a heart rate monitor, though I constantly check in with myself to see where my limits are. There is a major link between physical and mental abilities, so don't say you can't get to that next level or power up that next climb. Single speeding is great because that option to make it easier doesn't exist; soon you quickly realize that if you go faster than you think you can, momentum becomes your friend, and things get easier.  

1. Have fun, clear your head, and maintain balance.