June 14 and 15th weekend rides

Saturday June 14th Cup and Cone MS 150 training ride.
Riders assembled for the days ride included.
Ron Clanton
Steve Cope
Davin Perkins
John Majikes
Tim Travitz
Kevin Smit
Jae Brainard
Theresa Smit

John was eager to let all in attendance learn that he has ordered a new bike and was waiting on its delivery. So today he was riding his BlowOut Special.

The days ride had two routes with the longer one coving about 50 miles and the shorter being 25.
All riders took the longer route cue sheets in anticipation of a longer ride. Theresa and Jae planed to follow the 50 mile route but then alter the ending allowing Jae to return in time for a scheduled appointment. They also calculated the time such that they could finish their route about the same time everyone else finished the planned 50 miler.

The group assembled for the ride brief and any special announcements the ride organizers (Misfits bike club) needed to make. One of the more important safety announcements had everyone practicing the proper hand signals with the turn signals being provided by the left arm just as the NCDOT specifies.

The group was off with Davin, Tim, John all leading the charge.
Several early stop lights had the group splintered early.
John Majikes was with Davin leading as others were working to get through the lights to join those in the lead.
As Kevin, Ron caught up with Davin and John they saw John pull off to the side of the road. “Go on I am OK” yelled john. With no hesitation the trailing riders continued their efforts to regroup. Theresa and Jae were somewhere behind the others and would likely be able to join John and the three of them could ride together was what was assumed. This was the last time anyone saw John on the ride until all had finished.

Kevin was starting off having a bad ride. His sweat management issues were already in full bloom. Clearly Kevin had not hydrated property for the days heat and sun. Ron was being supportive as he rode close to Kevin pulling him along to help keep him close to the leading riders in the group. Those doing the work in the front were Tim, Davin, and Steve Cope with each rotating to take a turn at the Pull Position.

The route included sections of RTP and associated area’s of Morrisville. At about the 10 mile point the route became conjoined with the groups standard weekend ride route. The riders now found themselves on Fire Station Church Road with Up Chuck soon on the map. The group had by now swollen in size through the motion of passing other bikers who would slip into the draft line. One of those was a rider named Josh. Josh ended up riding the entire route with the Testosterone riders. We look for Josh to return for future weekend rides. The group worked well during the entire pull on Fire Station Church.
A left onto Yates Store now had the group all planning their individual attacks for Up Chuck. Steve Cope once again took the climb. This was accomplished in a made scramble as Kevin had zoomed past him just as the grade of the hill reached its max. Kevin’s momentum was not sustained as he quickly saw the speedometer change from 33 mph to 3 mph. At the top the route turned right and headed toward Mt. Pisgah road. There was no turn there however with the route staying true all the way to 751. This section of road forced a single file draft line. The group maintained a solid 19 mph climbing the grades of 751 to the turn at Martha Chapel and one of the three rest stops. The group stopped long enough to refill water bottles eat ½ of a banana, and let Kevin deal with his sweat management issues. “Tick Tock” Ron was calling to the group in an effort to ensure they did not become too comfortable.
Back on the bikes the Testosterone riders and their tag-alongs were now powering down Martha Chapel towards Lake Jordan and the left turn onto Farrington.
The cue sheet continued to describe the normal weekend ride route for the “Testosterone” riders. The route deviated at the corner of Green Level and Green Level Church with the Cue sheets directing the riders to stay straight on Green Level which turned into High House at the edge of Cary. Once in Cary The Cue Sheet had the riders turning left off of High house and onto “Ron’s Pull” taking the riders past Green Hope High school. The Route turned right just shy of the end of that run and wound thru neighborhoods to join the earlier roads of the days route signaling the end of the days ride.

The “Testosterone” Riders swung into the parking lot just as Jae was seen headed towards her appointment with bike on bike rack and a big smile on Jae’s face. This was a solid signal to all that she had enjoyed the days ride.

Once in the parking lot the riders attended to the task of loading up their bikes, changing into dryer clothes, replacing biking shoes with Tennis Shoes. Just as these tasks were being completed someone in the group noticed John Majikes car was still there. The “Roses” riders had not hooked up with John. Each rider was slowly gaining concern for what might have happened to John. All riders started looking around as if John would magically appear. As the concern continued to build the group noticed a lone rider swing into the parking area. This rider had a great bid smile on their face, and as the rider slowed all saw it was John finishing safely.
The group learned that John had stopped early in the ride to adjust the speedometer pick up and its magnet. They were heard hitting together early in the ride and John did not want them to end up malfunctioning. This early stop and a missed turn by John prevented him from catching up to the “testosterone” riders keeping his ride that day to a solo event. We also learned that later John noticed his rear wheel was not property aligned in the drop-outs causing the wheel to rub on the breaks.

Once all riders had stowed their bikes it was time for ice cream served by the members of the “Misfits“ bike club.

The “Testosterone” riders completed 50 miles at an average speed of 16.5 mph.
The “Rose’s” completed 30 miles at 13.6 mph average.


Sunday June 15th ride.
In attendance
Ernest Davis
Ed George
Steve Cope
Brain Farkas
Tim Travitz
Kevin Smit
Jae Brainard
Theresa Smit

The days ride can be summed up as Jae’s “Testosterone” ride.
The group spent the first half of the ride working to keep all riders together in a draft line. Theresa and Jae both stayed in the fray as the group worked its way to the attack on Up Chuck.
UP Chuck was taken by Ernest with Steve Cope doing his best to close the gap created early in the attack by Ernest. The group could see Steve congratulating the victor with a jubilant High Five.
Jae set up her own attack on UpChuck and was close to overtaking Kevin as she threw her power into the attack.
The group rode on as Theresa and Jae stopped to take a breath and recover.
The “Roses” stop on occasion to get off their bikes for a quick recovery.
The “Testosterone” riders do their recovery by standing on the peddles and coasting for a short period.
In an effort to continue to keep the “Roses and Testosterone’s” together the lead group circled back to pick up the stopped riders. Jae responded by again working her way into the middle of the pack. Theresa was doing her best to also stay in the safety of the pack’s draft.
This section of the road had rolling hills stitched together resulting in splintering the group and splintering them again with the crest of each hill.
The bikers followed the route as it headed towards Luter Shop. The “Testosterone” Riders had slowed the pace to 11 mph in hopes to have the “Roses” regroup once again.
The turn onto Luter Shop had the “Roses” still trailing forcing the Lead riders to continue to restrain themselves from a heads down pull.
“COACH”, “SMIT” was the exchange as Kevin noticed Coach Dotson leading a pack of riders heading in the opposite direction, and Coach’s recognition that Kevin had spotted him.
At the corner of Luter Shop and 751 the “Roses” and “Testosterone” riders had again regrouped.
The turn onto Martha Chapel and down hill run to Lake Jordan had the group forming a double draft line.
In the lead was Steve, Brain, and Tim followed by Ernest, Ed, Jae, followed by Kevin and Theresa. Theresa and Kevin fell off the pace of the draft line within the first ½ mile. Steve, Brian and Tim were setting an aggressive run toward lake Jordan. Jae, Ed and Ernest were working together as a team with Jae staying solidly in the hunt. As the run continued the pack slowly splintered with Kevin and Theresa falling behind with each revolution of the peddles while maintaining a solid 21 mph. As the Lake came into view Ernest egged Jae to join him in an effort to catch the lead group. Jae made a valiant attempt but was unable to match Ernest’s effort resulting in an additional splintering of the group.
At the left turn of Martha Chapel onto Farrington the ladies pulled up to take another of their recovery rest breaks. The “Testosterone” riders circled while standing on the peddles to match the “Rose’s” rest break and to egg the “Roses” on to mount and ride some more. With no response from the “Rose’s” the “Testosterone” riders finished the last circle and swung onto Farrington. This section of road slowly rises from Lake Jordan to the rolling hills of either Holland Chapel or the turn onto Horton Pond. This section of road up to the next turn is also affectionately referred to as “Kevin’s Crawl” as he is suckered into taking the Pull Position each time the riders are on this part of the route. Today was no exception. Kevin was the last to finish circling the “Rose’s” and could see the other riders headed down Farrington. He also noticed that each was looking back and opening a slot for Kevin to glide on through to the Pull Position.. Kevin responded and slowly passed each rider only to hear them each announce “No One but Kevin takes the Lead here”. Kevin made it to his honored position and began the slow pull towards the next turn with the speedometer read out flashing 17 mph.
Kevin fumbled with various gear combinations looking for the one gear that would allow for the proper spin and power stroke combination. The gear would have to carry the pull through the gradually increasing degree of angle as the road would rise on its journey from the Lake bed.
Finding a combination that would work Kevin began to do his part of the Pull. Matching pressure of the hill with pressure on the peddles. Kevin pushed to increase the speed as the climb unfolded. His efforts had the pace line cresting the rise at 23 mph. A Great pull one of his best efforts on this section of road.
The only comment generated by the group came from Brian Farkas. “ That section of road is very deceiving”, “ It looks up hill but clearly it must actually be a down hill run” he said this with a great big fictitious grin and in anticipation of a come back from Kevin. “That explains the increase in speed” was Kevin’s reply as he tried not to fall into the trash talk trap set by Brian.
The Riders were now on Holland Chapel with Tim and Steve setting the pace and doing a great deal of the pulling.

Tim has had two strong days of riding and must be sneaking out during the week to get in some extra miles.
Steve Cope has been riding on Wednesday’s with the group that leaves from the Mc Gregor Downs Shopping center. Last Wednesday he decided to ride with the hammer heads in that group, and DOMINATED THEM. The ride was an out and back that included to full climb of Lystra. Steve was the first to crest Lystra after a solid run to get there averaging 23 mph. “Steve came to play that day”.

The riders finished Holland Chapel with a strong pulls by Tim, Steve, Ernest, and Brian. Kevin had spent everything on his last Pull up Farrington and was now just hanging on.
The pack continued with a right turn onto 751 and a quick left back onto Luter Shop.
The plan was to know plow straight ahead only to turn at Green Hope High School road. With that knowledge each member in the group elected to get the most out of this section of road. The result had the pack minus Kevin and Ed , who was keeping Kevin company, all pushing hard these last 10 miles towards the finish. At Green Level the group was again reformed and remained close together for the short off road traverse of the rail road tracks at Green Hope High School.
Kevin planned to change the route at the end to bring the riders back into the Preston Neighborhood circling around to finish coming out behind Brugers;.
.This plan kept the group together through the round-about in Preston only to be shattered as Steve and Brian followed by Tim and Ernest as they attacked the hill headed toward the light at Davis drive. Their timing allowed them to continue through the intersection and a mad dash down the next hills. This action left Ed and Kevin way out of sight and unable to announce the next turn for the group. At that next turn Ed and Kevin were all alone. They took the planned left turn taking them to Morrisville Blvd and then a right turn onto CaryVillage Parkway trough Preston. Ed explained to Kevin that he rides these roads of Preston every morning for about an hour. He also told Kevin that he would elect to peel off at the last mile to go ahead and ride on to his house. “See you next weekend” they both announced as Ed made his turn toward home.

The Riders covered 35 miles at 15.8 mph average.
The “Roses” also covered 35 miles and accomplished it doing close to 14 mph average.

A write-up that Ernest can deal with and Proper hand signals

Sunday June 8th.
This write up will be provided in bulleted format for the benefit of Ernest Davis who refuses to read a detailed report.

The major events of the day for the “Testosterone” riders included:

• COACH RETURNS
  All have been anxious for Coach to join the group rides again after missing last season.
  Coach had been seen riding with other more aggressive groups and dominating those rides as one of the stronger riders
  The speculation has been that the “Testosterone” riders are not enough of a challenge for Coach
  o All in the group figured Coach would return when he was looking for a more relaxed, social ride allowing him to have a recovery day on the bike.


• Ernest Brings his neighbor to join the ride
  o welcome to the group Ed George


• Others on the ride for this group were
  o Kevin Smit
  o Steve Cope
  o Doug Augustine who started with the “Smell the Roses” but jumped onto the draft line as the “Testosterone” riders finally caught and passed the “Roses” just prior to Up-Chuck.


• The “Smell the Roses” started on time. The “Testosterone” riders waited for several minutes for Steve Cope to finish his
  o visiting
  o Organizing
  o Assembly
  o Bathroom visit
  o Changing into biking attire


• A debate regarding proper hand signals – see attached links that describe proper hand signals for bikers in NC.
  o Kevin uses the old school Left arm signal to announce a right turn. ( this has the left arm raised wide to the left of the body parallel to the ground with the elbow bent allowing the forearm and hand to be held high into the sky for all to see).
  o Steve Cope argues that it looks like Kevin is waving at someone rather than indicating a turn
  o Steve recommends the right arm out straight to the side to indicate a right turn.
  o Kevin adjusted his signal technique to includeLeft arm out to the side, elbow bend with hand raised in the air
  § Right arm out straight pointing in the direction of the turn
  § Verbal announcement of a right turn
  § This combination left nothing in question and eliminated the confusion that Steve was having.

To learn more about the proper use of hand signals while on a Bike visit the following links.

When riding in the State of Illinois
http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a1434.pdf

For a moive of proper hand signals visit

http://www.expertvillage.com/video/15964_bike-hand-signals.htm

When biking in Canada please visit this link to learn the proper hand signals for riding there

Canadian hand signals

http://www.nfpa.org/riskwatch/parent_bike.html

Here is a synopsis of the hand signals for NC

Cyclists must signal turns
with their left hands
Signaling turns is an important part of
sharing the road. It lets others know what
you want to do. It's required any time
your move could affect another driver.
On the other hand, simply giving a signal
doesn't give you the right to turn in front
of someone. Your signal is a request, not
a demand.
You make a left turn signal by holding
your left arm out straight to the side. To
signal a right turn, hold out your left arm
with the hand pointed up. To signal a
stop, hold your left arm out with the hand
pointed down.

See full LAW as stated by NC DOT.

http://www.ncdot.org/transit/bicycle/safety/Streetwise_Intro_&_Laws.pdf

• Ernest runs off the road from laughing too hard at the fond memories of Kevin’s multi-colored polka dotted Jersey and See thru Biking shorts as described by Coach.


• Another Flat this time from Ernest


• Ed blamed (wrongly accused) for almost giving an older gentleman a hart attack.
  o As the “Testosterone” riders went thru the tunnel under 55 on the greenway someone in the group screamed out a shrilling Banshee call from the tops of their lungs. This apparently startled an older gentleman out on a relaxing Sunday walk.


• At the end of the ride Coach elected to do extra by turning up High House and chasing down a lone rider (female)


• Steve Cope see’s coaches breakaway up High House and responds with his attack. (overtaking coach as coach had slowed down to visit with the young lady he had targeted for his attack of the hill).


• Steve Cope gets a ticket from Officer Todd ( see scanned image of ticket found on the front windshield of Steve’s car).


• The days ride covered 30 miles at and average pace of 15.8 mph including the stop to repair Ernest’s flat.
  
  The “Smell the Roses” Riders


• In attendance were
  o Theresa Smit
  o Jae Brainard – new rear tire and tube
  o Shiela Augustine
  o Doug Augustine – later joining the “Testosterone” Riders.
  o Patty
  o Mary Ann


• The following is information provided from Shiela as she reports on the days ride.
  Jae and Teresa lead the 3 new ladies (Mary Ann, Patti and Sheila )on a great ride! No issues with tires or pedals! Just the HEAT!
  Our group did 30+ miles - and all of us did UPCHUCK! We have all enjoyed this group so much!! I especially like the type of "dog" we are like in our cycling
  styles!! Bet you guys do share that info!!


• Apparently the “Smell the Roses” riders have spent a great deal of time discussing the various qualities of Breeds of dogs and how each of the riders in the groups can be compared to a specific bread of Dog.
  o This information needs to be provided to all and not kept just amongst the “Roses”.
  o So what type of DOG are YOU.


• The “Smell the Roses” riders completed their ride having accomplished the same mileage as the “Testosterone” riders, and within the same time.
  o As Kevin was loading up his bike at the end of the “Testosterone” ride the “Roses glided into the parking lot.
  
  
  
  
  
  

A Blowout

Saturday June 7th
In attendance representing the “Testosterone” Riders were:
Kevin Smit
Ron Clanton
John Majikes
Steve Cope
Todd Pechner
Davin Perkins (neighbor of Kevin and Theresa Smit and the Sparanos) – His first time with the group.
Brian Farkas
Ernest Davis

In attendance for the “Smell the Roses” riders were:
Theresa Smit
Tracy Clanton
Jae Brainard
Sheila Augustine – her husband Doug rode solo earlier in the day.
Patty
Mary ann – her first time riding with the group.

Introductions for the new folks to the ride were completed with Steve Cope asking for the $20 drafting fee to be collected from each new rider. So far Steve has failed to collect one thin dime from any rider. Kevin Smit owes Steve several Thousand dollars for all of Steve’s victories each time he attacks on Up-Chuck or each time he chased down a rider on the horizon.

John Majikas was standing next to his bike and was explaining to Kevin why he did not go out and buy a new bike as a result of his numerous flats this season. John has had well over a dozen flats this season and has not yet failed to flat on a ride that he and Kevin were on together. The last time he flatted the entire “Testosterone” riders grouped voted for John to buy and new bike. That group was very disappointed to see that John was still with his possessed Steel Frame bike. John was valiantly defending his reasons for not buying a new bike and was using the argument that he has ridden many times since his last ride with the group without any flats. BAMM.
All eyes turned to John.
The entire rear tire had just exploded off the rim of his bike, and yes Kevin was very close by.
John’s expression morphed from ride and confidence to shaken and disbelieve.
John then went to work to quickly change the tube and replace the tire onto the rim.
Borrowing a floor pump from one of the other riders John began the process of forcing air into the tube with each stroke of the pump. John bent down to pull the pump off the tube having just reached the proper air pressure …. BLAMM.

John was seen throwing his hands in the air as he told everyone to go on without him since he was now out of spare tubes.

No one was ready to let John miss out on the days ride. Steve and Brian and Ron all jumped in to assist.
Steve and Brain looked at the tire and concluded that it was not holding the bead on the rim properly and that what was needed was a new tire and tube. Ron ran to his truck and returned with a brand new (High end – expensive) tire that was still in the box. Ron also produced a brand new, still in the box, tube. Within minutes from the original exposition John is ready to ride with a new tire and tube installed and pressurized.
Everyone mounted their bikes and headed out onto the roads of Cary, NC. John was riding with full confidence that he has already achieved his quota of flats for the day’s ride. The ride began as many do with a slow steady buildup of speed and rpms as the group makes the turn into the Preston neighborhood. The major difference today was that Ron was not leading the initial charge up those early hills on High house. Instead he was lagging behind with Kevin, John and Brian Farkas. The new guy Davin was seen at the front with Steve and Todd and Ernest. Steve was already engaged in full nonstop conversation with the new rider making him feel welcomed to the group. The “ Testosterone” riders remained together in a poorly formed pelaton with no one rider taking the lead position. The pelaton acted more like and ameba that slowly changed shape as it headed in its desired direction.
As the blob made the right turn onto “RON’s PULL” Steve Cope and Todd set themselves up for the traditional draft and resulting slingshot they would receive from the long pull and Stellar Draft created by Ron Clanton on that straight section of road.
Ron was still in the back of the pack as everyone slowed d swinging wide to let him through to the front. “I am going to hold back and just ride this section at a reasonable pace” Ron told Kevin. “I think by pushing so hard early in the rides I burn myself out and then struggle the rest of the ride”, he continued to explain. “Smart move, I always fail to recover from any of my feeble attempts to charge hard” was Kevin’s supportive response.
During this brief conversation Steve, Todd, Ernest, and Davin all continued to expect something to happen. Davin being new to the group had no idea that the others were looking for the traditional easy ride by drafting the all powerful Ron on this section of road. With that lack of knowledge Davin became restless and assumed others were waiting on him to take a turn at the front. He accepted that self imposed challenge and moved quickly to the front. That was all that was needed for the others to abandon Ron and join the new guy on an attack that, until this day, was always set aside for RON to Command. John Majikes was clearly contemplating joining the lead group but stayed within the comfort of Ron, Kevin and Ernest who was heard saying “it is still early, there will be plenty of time to catch them, and lots more opportunities to attack”. With that the trailing group worked together to form a more organized pace line that produced a slow acceleration and shared effort at the pull position.

With the run down RON’s Pull now completed that the new guy vanquished by Steve and Todd the group reassembled for the single file push on Fire Station Church road leading towards Up-Chuck Hill.
This stretch of Road requires a single file draft line due to a higher degree of traffic and it’s narrow configuration. The group motored along that stretch at a solid 21 mph average slowing only to prepare for the left hand turn onto Yates Store and the pending attack on Up-Chuck. Devin was now riding in a wait and see what happens riding style. He followed the group watching Steve, Todd, Ernest, and Brian all charge down the hill with the anticipation of getting a solid jump on the attack. Ernest was the first to begin the attack on the climb followed by Steve and Todd who both attacked the hill together with Brian delaying only for an instant. Soon it was Steve and Brain battling it out they passed Ernest and as Todd was slowly left in his struggle to take the top. From the back of the pack it appeared that Brain had taken the prize at the top of Up-Chuck followed closely by Todd, Ernest, then Kevin, Davin, John, and Ron all finishing the climb within yards of each other.
A right turn onto the newly paved section of road had the riders slowing into a recovery pace that allowed each to easily roll over the top of each of the hills they encountered on their way to the left turn onto Mt Pisgah. This stretch of road the hills are more extreme, minimizing the abilily to use momentum to carry the rider towards the crest of the hill. Due to this the riders each, still recovering from Up-Chuck, now worked individually to make the best of each climb. This shattered the group into many pieces. Steve and Todd and Brian all sprinting ahead of the group followed by Ernest, and Davin, then John, followed by Kevin and Ron.

Once past the hills the groups turned left towards Luter Shop. It took the entire 2 or 3 miles of this section for the splintered groups to all come back together at the right turn onto Luter Shop. The group did a much better job of forming an effective pace line with several of the riders doing their share of the pull from the front of the line. The pace was increased due to this solid team work, only to be interrupted with the right turn and short stretch onto 751. A left turn onto Martha Chapel had the group forming back into its more efficient draft line. Martha Chapel is about 4 miles of smooth black top with a slight downhill as it closes in on Lake Jordan and the turn at Farrington. Steve Cope took the pull position for the early stages of this run, with John Majikes always near the front. Steve, Brian, Todd, Davin and Ernest all took turns at the front with the pace quickening with each rotation change of the lead biker. As the pack reached the last ½ to ¾ miles of Martha Chapel Steve, Todd, and Brain all jumped into attack mode with an immediate acceleration. John Majikes was still near the front of the draft line when this attack began to unfold. To everyone’s surprise John raised out of the saddle and powered to catch and then sling shoot past the original break away group. This spurred Steve Cope into his scamper technique in an effort to run down John. Johns jump and continued attack allowed him to continue to lead preventing Steve from closing the gap that had been generated by Johns surprise attack. Once again the pack had splintered into a breakaway and several chase groups up to the left turn on Ferrington road. Farrington road brought the group back into single pace line format. Steve informed Davin that this section of road was Kevin’s to command, stating that “Kevin pays extra taxes on the road to ensure no one else gets to lead up the slow climb of Ferrington”. This short rant from Steve had the group now all scattering and slowing to try and figure out how to extract Kevin from the Pack so he could take his honored position at the front of the draft line for the section of road now known as “Kevin’s Crawl”.

This was forming much too slow for Steve and Todd with Todd leading another charge and Steve immediately responding to the challenge. Kevin was seen struggling with the message Ron Clanton had delivered earlier in the ride. Kevin could be seen conflicted with the thought of taking his rightful place at the lead and then Bonking completely at the end of what would be a monumental effort, or sitting back as he has all day to just ride in the slip stream of other stronger riders.

Just as Todd and Steve developed a large gap between them and the confused pack an opening was generated allowing Kevin to shoot out of the pack. He was still in his large chain ring up front and smaller chain ring in the rear. Without shifting gears he was forced to stand on the peddles and pull on the handle bars to generate an increase in rpms that would catapult him across the gap between the breakaway riders and the pack. The rhythm of this effort was enhanced allowing Kevin to rocket passed Steve and Todd to form a large gap making him a single breakaway and now two chase groups. One group was formed by Steve and Todd with Todd shooting to the front with him on his arrow bars minimizing the drag generated by him and his chase group . The second Chase team was quickly organizing to do their best in maximizing the energy of a well formed pace line. Kevin knew he had to push harder and longer than normal on this slight uphill run if he was going to hold onto any of the gap he had created before being chased down by the others. Heart rate above max, legs filling with blood and lactic acid, lungs unable to fill fast enough or full enough all contributed to the ever decreasing gap between him and the chase groups.

Hold on Hold on the crest of the hill is in sight. With that chant taking place in his head Kevin looked in his mirror to see the Hugh grin on Todd’s face as the first chase group had accomplished their objective. “Don’t slow down now, Don’t Slow down now Kevin” Steve Cope could be heard as he taunted Kevin.

Todd and Steve both now relaxed, slowed, and stayed behind Kevin as they all made their way to the turn on Horton Pond. In their own smug way they had vanquished Kevin and then pretended to act as if he once again managed to retain the title of keeping the lead for the entire length of “Kevin’s Crawl”. This method of winning by Steve and Todd (pulling up at the end and coasting) still leaves the vanquished (Kevin) with the continued pressure of having to respond again and again as long as he is still allowed to finish the pull to the end of that run.
The group assembled again into a short recovery pace line as they rode the rolling hills and rough pavement of Horton Pond.

BAALAAM.

Another blowout.
The sound came from the front of the pack were Steve Cope and Brain were now riding. Everyone however looked around to see where John Majikes was and if he was still up right on his bike.

Up ahead the group could see the two riders slow and Ernest who was far in the lead turning back towards the now stopped riders.
Off the side of the road to group slowly assembled.
Brian Farkas was pulling his rear tire off the bike. A complete Blow out of tube and tire was quickly discovered.
“Well I will wait hear for someone to come back and get me” Brian announced.
“We are just at the half way point of the ride it will be more than an hour or more before one of us can get back to you in this heat” replied several in the group.
“Lets use the dollar bill Trick” John Majikes eagerly offered. “And if it works you have to tell my son that it works, since he does not believe it does”, John went on to demand.
“I only have a $100 bill”, announced Ron as if to jab back at Steve for earlier emails Steve sent regarding Ron’s ability to buy a new carbon bike because he can .
“I have a quarter” was the facetious response from Ernest.
“I have an unused Condom in my bill fold” Steve Cope snickered.
“The hole is too big for that to work” was the quick comeback from Brain.

A dollar bill was finally produced from the group.
The bill was folded to help create as many layers of material possible and still act as a patch to cover the large hole in the tire. Brain carefully replaced the blown tube with a new one from his repair kit making sure not to disturb the placement of the Dollar Bill Patch.
With the repair completed the group again headed down Horton Pond towards the turn on 751 and then Luther.

Once on Luther the group again splintered as each rider did their best to negotiate the various hills challenges. Steve and Brian were now far in the lead with Todd and Ernest making up that lead group. Kevin, Davin, John, and Ron all stayed within ear shot of each other making sure none was left behind.
A right turn onto Green Level again had the group starting this section as a single group. After the second climb Steve Cope and Todd were making a right turn onto Wimberly with the pack just cresting the previous hill still on Green Level. Without announcing the desired direction Kevin led the pack past straight on past the turn on Wimberly glancing to see Steve and Todd looking back to ensure they were not assuming an incorrect path.
The energy of the pack was sparked by the recognition that Steve and Todd had gone astray. Down the long steep hill only to be met immediately with its twin rising quickly in front the riders all stood to match the pressure of this next climb.
A left turn on to White Oak had Steve and Todd now challenging from behind to take the lead. They were met by Davin, Brian, and Ernest who responded to the hastened pace on this section of road. Laying just ahead was a fast down hill and associated climb up to Luter Shop. Kevin, Ron, and John all enjoyed the fast coast down hill with each shifting to find the perfect gear combination for the next climb. The lead riders were already finishing their climb and were out of site from the chase group. As the chase group crested the hill they saw the lead pack pulled over alongside the road with Ernest circling still on his bike as if there is an unwritten rule that does not let him rest.

Brian had already removed his rear wheel and was again suggesting everyone go on ahead. The dollar bill did work but only for about 5 or 7 miles.
Again refusing to leave anyone behind Steve Cope offered to use his space Sew-up as a Tire and Tube replacement for Brian’s damaged tire and tube.
A Sew-up is a tube and tire combination that is glued to bike rims designed to support that type of tire. The type of rim that Brain and others were riding are referred to as Clinchers. These rims are designed to support a separate tube and then tire that is held in place on the rim much like a car tire does with a firm bead that interlocks with the edge of the rim.
This trick of using sow-ups on a clincher can work as long as the rider is very careful on how aggressive they ride especially around corners.
Brian removed his damaged tube and stuffed it in his Jersey pocket. He then removed the damaged tire and folded it forming a figure eight. He then slid each of his arms in to the holes formed by the figure eight of the fold. This allowed Brian to carry the debris to the end where it could be properly disposed. No Littering. Well done Brian.
With Sew-up inflated the group head to the right turn onto Luter Shop. Steve Cope, John Majikes, Todd Pechner , Davin, and Ernest were quick to charge on down Luter Shop. Kevin, and Ron rode a considerable distance behind. Brian Farkas was no where to be seen. This continued to the potential next turn onto Yates Store. This intersection offered several options on how to finish the days ride. Each of the riders in the lead group had made a judgment call on which direction Kevin would elect to use.
Todd and Ernest continued straight but at a slowed pace. John Majikes had made the left turn onto Yates store but was parked along side the road in wait. Steve and Davin were covering both options by circling the area. Kevin and Ron arrived at the intersection still with no Brain in sight. “Left of Right, Left or Right” Steve was anxious to learn. Kevin did not respond as he rolled past Steve and continued straight prompting Todd and Ernest to jump on ahead, John to mount his bike, Steve to scamper to try and take the lead, Ron and Davin to coast as they watched the anticts of all in the intersection.

Just as Steve rushed past Kevin to join the two riders headed straight Kevin made a U turn and announced “Let’s let Brian catch up”. “There he is” shouted Steve who was now in the lead headed away from Kevin’s U Turn maneuver.

“Lets head down Yates Store” Kevin announced once Brian was in sight.

The timing of this allowed Ron and Davin to be the first to make the proper turn onto Yates Store followed by John who had just mounted his bike, followed by Kevin who was now leading Brian in the correct direction. This lead group could then hear the remaining riders chains and gears work as they all made a U-Turn and worked to join those well down the road on Yates Store. A right turn into the neighborhood at Cary Town had the group all together and each rider preparing for the series to hills that are easily crested using the momentum built up from the first down hill in the series.
Out of the neighborhood and back onto Fire Station Church Road the group was now back tracking the earlier part of the days ride. Again the usual suspects were working to take the lead and generate the gap between them and the other riders. Kevin and Brian found themselves riding together these last few miles as they were unable to maintain the pace set by the lead riders and in making that effort found they had a significant gap between them and those trailing at that time.
Kevin made the turn into the new subdivision that wound around behind a new shopping center at High house and Davis Drive. As he entered the back street he slowed, sat up straight in the seat, removed his hands from the handle bars in a effort to stretch his sore back.

From the corner of his eye he saw a white car headed perpendicular to his line of travel. The car was approaching a stop sigh that should allow the driver time to stop, look both ways, and then proceed right or left onto the road that Kevin was on. Kevin’s instincts suggested that the car was traveling too fast to make a proper stop at the stop sigh.

In an instant Kevin rolled back forward in an effort to secure the handle bars for a possible evasive maneuver. Just as his hands made contact the car swung wide right placing it now side by side with Kevin who was already throwing his bike wide left into the oncoming (open) lane to avoid direct contact with the drivers door. “HEY HEY HEY” was all Kevin could shout as he continued to make the evasive maneuver. The car’s driver stomped on the break and was now looking very surprised and ashamed at the realization she had just about Killed someone through her inattentiveness.
Kevin continued unscathed to the finish.
The Driver returned home to change her shorts and regain her composure.
Hopefully for a period of time she will remember that situation and adjust her driving habits to minimize the risk of being in that situation ever again.
The “Testosterone” riders finished the day with 4 total BLOWOUTS covering 41 miles at an average pace of 16.5 mph.

It was learned that the “Smell the Roses” riders had to return to the start/finish early due to a large bulge that had developed in Jae Brainards rear Tire. This was discovered just as the group crested Up-Chuck. To ensure Jae got as close to the end as possible before a major Blow out all riders in the group elected to escort her back towards the end. As it turned out they all made it to the finish with Jae continuing to ride around in the parking lot in order to end the day with 20 miles on the odometer. The others elected to call the ride short of 20 miles and were loading up their bikes when they heard a load BAALAAM coming from the back side of the parking lot. Jae’s rear tube blew through the casing of the tire just as she completed the last yards allowing her odometer to click over to the 20 mile mark.
Between the 14 riders this day there was a total of 5 complete Blowouts impacting only 3 of the riders.

End of May first of June Rides

May 31 and June 1st.

In attendance on Saturday May 31st.
Theresa Smit
Tracy Clanton
Jae Brainard – crank arm destroyer
Sheila Augustine
Doug Augustine
Patty Sheila’s friend
Beth Gonzalis

Kevin Smit
Ron Clanton
Steve Cope
Tom Plant
Brain Farkas
Mr Bridenbaugh ( David ).
Todd Pechner was participating in an Olympic length Ironman and was not in attendance for the day’s ride.

Today’s ride had everyone participating in leading sections of the ride, even Steve Cope. Those leading the charge from the parking lot were Ron and Brian followed by Steve and Mr. Bridenbaugh and then Kevin and Tom. Kevin spent these first few miles explaining the various riders techniques, riding styles, and behaviors, to Tom. Kevin explained that Ron will always charge out of the gate and that Kevin is unable to match that pace early in the ride due to his need for a long slow warm-up. As the group rode thru the Preston Woods neighborhood Tom pointed down one of the streets letting the group know that he lives in that area. This results in a short ride for Tom to the start finish of the weekend rides. The group was not up for a long ride today so all elected to do the standard route that included Ron’s Pull, Up-Chuck, and Kevins-Crawl (section of road he tries to ride hard as the pack rides on Farrington road from Martha Chapel towards Horton’s Pond). So no surprises for the group and everyone was free to attack and harass at will. The group made the turn onto Ron’s Pull with a strong head wind keeping the group at bay. Steve jumped out in an effort to see if anyone else would fall for his trap. No one did, and he quickly rolled back to the back of the pack shaking his head in discuss that no one was up for the challenge.

Ron worked his way to the front of the draft line and all others tucked in tight behind him. With the strong head wind no one was willing to push Ron’s pace by their actions of slowly sliding along beside him expecting the usual surge to ratchet up the miles per hour. Instead of this normal response all riders were happy to let Ron set the pace unchallenged. Ron worked harder than any other time on this stretch due to his commitment to pull the pack against the steady gale force head winds. Everyone felt the work being provided by Ron as each was able to monitor the speed undulations’ registered with each hill and new gust of wind. No one wanted to feel the total pain Ron had subjected himself to on their behalf, so all remained in the single file draft line.
Once Rons’ Pull came to an end the group made the quick right and then left onto Fire Station Church Road. This section of Road always has several changes of pack leaders. It is a long stretch that has several narrow and then double lane sections with rolling hills scattered along its length. Today’s mix of ride leaders was no different. The first to jump into the lead to help pull was Steve Cope. This was so unusual that all riders had some form of comment that Steve was willing to do his share of the pulling. Behind Steve was Tom followed by Kevin, and then Brain, Mr. Bridenbaugh, and Ron. Steve was not in the front long before Kevin informed Tom that drafting Steve Cope was futile. Steve’s profile on the bike does little to block the wind for other riders. Tom seemed to instantly recognize this fact and pulled out wide to then charge past Steve to take the Lead Pull position. In doing this Tom pushed the pace increasing the mph by 3 or 4 miles an hour. Just like the chain reaction of a locomotive lunging forward with each trailing car being jerked forward the pack of bike riders each responded with a sudden surge to stay coupled with the draft created by the rider ahead. Tom pulled for a long stretched followed by Kevin who then gave up the lead to Mr. Bridenbaugh, Brain, and Steve Cope as all three prepared for the run down and then attack up on Up-Chuck. The remaining 3 riders all having pulled for long stretches were now left with the challenge of surviving Up- Chuck with tired legs, and elevated heart rates. They also wanted to remain in eye sight of the game that was about to unfold as the other 3 riders would attack the hill seeking to be the victor.
The show was one to remember.

Mr. Bridenbaugh carried the greatest momentum into the bottom 1/3 of the hill with Steve and Brain tucked in his slip stream. Steve was the first to jump and did so swinging wide to the left in an effort to block Brian from catapulting around him on the left. Just as Steve was about to cover the middle third of the hill Brian did catapult himself far left into the on-coming traffic lane. As he jumped into the oncoming traffic Brian also jumped out of the saddle throwing his bike wildly from side to side in an effort to disrupt any chance to draft him. Instantly Steve Cope sat back in the saddle and was seen fidgeting with his left cleat. Mr Bridenbaugh was next seen overtaking the now vanquished Steve. Once all riders had assembled at the top Steve informed the group that he had mechanical problems that had his left foot coming out of the peddles, at the most critical point in the climb.
Tom, Kevin, Ron, and Mr. Bridenbaugh all congratulated Brian on a brilliant attack and the first victory of the season against Steve Cope. Steve was now 0 for 1 on the days attacks. We have all been waiting to see who would school Steve this season, and it ended up being one of his oldest friends and bike racing competitors. Keep in mind that this is Brian’s third time on his bike in the last two years. Hmmm the angry chipmunk can be tamed.

The group continued with a right turn at the top of Up-Chuck. The rolling hills that lay ahead were perfect food for the riding style of Mr. Bridenbuagh. He deftly uses momentum and his locomotive peddling power to consume each of the rolling hills as if they were laid out for him to devour much like kernels of corn on a cob. Take them one row at a time and keep on rotating the cob until there is nothing left. This left all far behind except for Steve Cope who was barking at Mr. Bridenbaughs heals this entire undulating stretch of Road.
A left turn off of Mt. Pisgah had the group scattered into 4 clumps with Mr. Bridenbaugh and Steve far in the lead, followed by Tom and Brian, followed by Kevin, and then behind him was Ron. It took the full length of this next run to reassemble the group with all riders working in a recovery mode. A the turn onto Luter Shop Ron made the decision to turn left and head on back. His stellar pull early in the ride against the gale force wind had taken its toll. The group made sure he was ok and with his approval the remaining riders turned right towards the strawberry patch. The riders were now working again as a team to pick up the pace towards the next turn on 751. Within a half mile the Tom recognized another rider who was headed towards the group. Upon meeting he challenged the riders to reverse course and join the group. We learned that this rider like Tom was training for the upcoming Tour de Cure. He was planning on covering 75 miles for his day’s ride. The group informed him they were only planning to do about half that distance for the day. He introduced himself as Ravin and agreed to ride part of the days ride with the group.
A right turn on 751 and left onto Martha Chapel had Tom pulling the full length of this run. At Farrington the group made the left turn and started the run up the road known as “Kevin’s Crawl”. Ravin was in the lead with Brain, followed by Kevin, Steve, Mr. Bridenbaugh, and then Tom. As the road changed into a positive elevation Ravin fell off his pace putting Brian in the lead. Kevin was slowly pulling his rpm’s into optimal rhythm for his charge up this stretch of road. Kevin took the lead from Brian as the elevation continued to slowing increase. Steve Cope was right there nipping at his heals. Steve made sure Kevin knew he was there by trash talking Kevin’s riding skills the entire duration of Kevin’s pull.
The group made the left turn onto Horton Pond with a brief pause after the turn to allow for all to regroup. Ravin elected to continue on past the turn as he was now working towards his 75 mile goal. The group waited for Tom to be seen working towards the group. No Tom. At this point the group agreed to split up in an effort to find Tom.
Kevin and Mr. Bridenbaugh would continue on Horton Pond road. Steve and Brian would turn back down Farrington to try and find Tom. If they did not find him on that stretch they would turn right onto Holland Chapel expecting that Tom may have turned one road earlier. Holland Chapel parallel’s Horton Pond. At the end of each of these runs the group would gather at the Strawberry patch.

At the Strawberry patch the group reassembled and still no Tom. The group speculated that he may have turned back and followed Martha Chapel in an effort to retrace the day’s ride in reverse. With that the group set off down Luter Shop towards White Oak. They worked again as a team with Steve Cope providing a good deal of the lead effort. A turn onto White Oak had Steve, Mr. Bridenbaugh and Brian all setting up for the up hill climb and associated attack. Kevin knew the best he could do was watch from the rear to see who the victor would be. The attack started early on the down hill stretch as Mr. Bridenbaugh worked to ensure his momentum could be maximized on the early stage of the climb that lay ahead. The other two rides were tucked in so tight that they looked like one bike with three riders. Just as the momentum began to fade for Mr. Bridenbaugh the other two shot to the left to scramble on past. At that same moment Steve jumped out to the saddle with this left leg shooting out wide of the bike frame. Brian quickly took advantage again and hoped wide to the right to continue his acceleration. Mr. Bridenbaugh was very much still a part of the attack and he to powered past the angry Chipmunk. Kevin could only smile as Steve was heard again claiming that he had mechanical problems. Mr. Bridenbauh and Brian continued their attack “taking no prisoners” along the way. They did not back off until long after the climb only slowing to wait for the group at the next turn. Kevin and Steve finished the climb together and upon reaching the level section of road encountered the “Smell the Roses” riders heading down White Oak in the opposite direction. As the two groups passed they waved. In that group Kevin and Steve spied TOM. It was later learned that Tom and the “Smell the Roses” riders actually crossed paths twice before he decided to turn and join them on the rest of their ride. At that same time Steve Cope yelled to Tracy Clanton that the group had lost Ron. This generated an immediate reaction form Tracy who had to stop and call Ron to make sure he was OK. Steve is a trouble maker for sure. Once the “Testosterone” riders had assembled for the left turn onto Green Level Steve was telling everyone how his peddle system has failed him this entire day. Kevin pointed out to the group that when a rider kicks their heal in an outward motion the peddle system releases as it was designed to do. He then described what he witnessed during the more recent hill climb. “guys, I saw Steve kick his heal out to the left just as you two started to press the attack”. With that all the riders had some additional information to now Trash Talk Steve. Steve was now 0 for 3 on the days major attacks. A bad day of biking for the Chihuahua.

The ride continued down Green Level with a right onto Green Level Church and then the left onto the 4 mile bike path. This works as a great cool down for the end of the ride, and was the first time on this stretch of the ride for Brian Farkus. Once back onto the roads of Cary Steve and Brian continued their attack on each other. The last run down Cary Parkway had Brian and Steve shifting into the biggest gears, and spinning at well over 100 rpms as they pushed their bikes working to keep each others front wheel ahead of the other. At one point Brian had deliberately drifted far left forcing Steve to either brake and fall behind or drift left keeping the pressure on the attack. Steve being the animal he is continued the attack and drifted left into a UPS truck that saw what was taking place and slowed its speed to avoid the drag race that was unfolding just in front of it. Not sure if the UPS driver was putting his next scheduled delivery on hold to accommodate the game that was taking place at that moment. Just as the battle reached maximum velocity the two gladiators were forced to slide to a stop as the lights at Cary Parkway and High House announced a full stop for traffic in the direction of the two combatants and a full speed ahead for cross traffic. Steve and Brian had to ride the brakes hard with the momentum still forcing them into the intersection were each had to make a right turn to avoid any contact with traffic crossing their paths.
Giggling each one congratulated the other in the efforts to take the stage and in their abilities to avoid disaster at the end. “Boys”, Christy would have been heard saying if she was there.

The “Testosterone” riders covered 35 miles at a 16.2 mph pace.

Sunday June 1
In attendance.
Steve Cope
Jay Brainard with damaged crank arm reattached to the bottom bracket. (not sure how long it can continue to hold against her powerful peddling technique)
Theresa Smit
Kevin Smit
Tim Travitz arrived on his bike – after several weeks of missing the rides.
Tom Plant who also arrived on his bike (back for more punishment even after being abandoned on Saturdays ride).
The group was also joined by Ernest Davis who had not ridden with the group for over a year. Kevin and Theresa had run into Ernest and his wife the evening before. Kevin Trash Talked Ernest about his missing attendance and how he needs to get back on the road bike and off the mountain bike.
Ernest Trash Talked back about how Kevin’s Writing skills are 3rd grade level at best. He went on to say that he does not read the Blog for several reasons. The first was already mentioned, it frustrates him too much to have the English language, grammar, sentence and paragraph structures abused at the level Kevin produces. Second Ernest said he first looks to see if there is a sign off on the page without having to scroll down to find the ending of the article. Since that never happens he does not bother to waste his time on some long drawn out poorly written piece of information.
Lets all vote to have Ernest do the write ups so everyone can enjoy them without being tortured by Kevin’s attempts at literature.

The group was glad to see Ernest again and immediately made him feel welcomed by harassing him for being away so long.

Steve Cope explained to everyone in attendance that he had cleaned his peddle system and did not anticipate any further mechanical issues with them.
The group then reminded Steve not to kick his heals out during the steepest part of a climb. Steve was put on notice that everyone was ready to watch his attack to see if he continues to deliberately sabotage his efforts if it looks like he can not take the stage on an attack.
With everyone ready the group left the parking lot to begin their day’s ride and friendly banter. The “Testosterone” Riders elected to ride a reverse route towards Holt and Roberts road. This decision puts the hills at the early stages of the ride and allows for little warm up before the pace increases and the attacks begin. All the riders took turns again today leading from the front. Tom rode very strong the entire day with each turn at the pull he increased the average mph by 3 to 4 miles per hour. Everyone learned that Tim had been missing in action due to respiratory issues and long hours and/or days out of town on business. Steve’s peddle system behaved as if new holding him fast in place. Ernest road the strongest of all with long steady pulls from the front. He was there on each attack and appeared to be relaxed the entire ride (not fully challenged). Kevin road hard to keep with the group and by the half way mark was starting the early stages of a “bonk”.

The ride continued along Green Level with its succession of long climbs. The group held together through the turn onto Luther and formed a tight draft line during its length. This riding form also continued the entire length of Horton Pond. The group then charged down Farrington towards Martha Chapel. Once on Martha Chapel Tom elected to take the lead position and Pull the entire climb from Lake Jordan valley to the turn at 751. A solid effort that had all the rest doing their best to hold onto Tom’s powerful performance. A turn onto Luter Shop at the Strawberry patch had the group head for the finish about 12 or 13 miles away. Steve Cope and Ernest did the majority of the pull along this section. The group waved goodbye to Tim as they passed by his subdivision off of Yates store road. A left turn onto Green Hope High School road had the group again working as a team to finish the ride together. The cyclo-cross at the rail road tracks allowed for a brief respite from the bike seat as each rider would dismount and carry their bikes for a few yards. From this point the group only had 4 miles to the finish by wandering thru a shopping center and onto High House for that last push to the finish.

The “Testosterone” riders covered 30 miles at a 17.2 mph pace.
Ernest covered 36 miles due to his extra ride to and from the start to his home.
He will never know this since the article is far to long and poorly written for him to review.
We hope to see him on next weekends ride, and look forward to having his wife join the ride. She is a stronger rider than Ernest, she likes long distance rides in the Mountains. One Sick individual.

Oriental Picture Book

click on this link to view a handful of Pictures taken by those who participated in the 3 day bike ride in Oriental NC from April 11 - 13th.

Oriental Weekend 2008

May 17 and 18th rides

Great days of biking and solid turnout of participants.
Saturday May 17th
New route longer distance.
Today’s ride can be summed up as Steve Cope disrespecting his elders.

In attendance were:
Kevin and Theresa Smit
Sheila and Doug Augustine and a friend – they arrived after the Testosterone group had left the start leaving Doug to ride with the Roses. A thorn among many flowers.
Ron and Tracy Clanton
Christy Miller
Steve Cope
Todd Pechner
Jae Brainard

As mentioned earlier the Testosterone riders were off before Doug was able to join leaving him along with Jae to set the pace for the “Smell the Roses” riders who also included Sheila and her friend, Theresa, and Tracy.

The Testosterone group was quick to hit the road, get to cruising speed, and start trash talking. Todd and Steve would spend the day challenging the group and themselves to periodic attacks to take the lead. It is a guarantee that they both will attack on a hill. And it is a guarantee that both will work to run down (catch and pass) any lone biker in the distance. It is not a Guarantee as to who wins the attack Steve or Todd. For those keeping score Steve Cope is currently undefeated. This may end someday soon.

Today’s ride is no exception. Let it also be known that there were no mechanical issues on the day’s ride. Kevin had spent some time previous to the start in laying the route for today’s ride. He elected to swing the start in a reverse route of some rides they had done last season. He also found an interesting finish for the Testosterone riders that provided for a 4 or 5 mile cool down instead of the customary scramble to the finish. This route put all the hills in the first half of the ride. The riders were warned that the route would be different than what had been provided recently and were told upfront to expect a distance of 45 miles. This is 10 miles longer than they had been riding this season.
The ride began as all do with the short run up High House and into the Preston neighborhood. The group did a good job of pacing themselves and staying close to Kevin who would not reveal the next turn until they were close to its approach. This was his method of not being dropped and also helped to frustrate those who don’t like surprises. All part of the fun (for Kevin). The group continued past last week’s mechanical meltdown for Doug and John Majikes ( we were hoping John would be on the ride today with his new bike). At the corner where the group turns right and begins the long acceleration on Ron’s Pull, Kevin signaled for the pack to turn LEFT. This was particularly difficult on Ron who had been psyching himself up for his charge on that long section of road the group has nicknamed after him. The pack made a tentative left turn with all riders looking around as if to ask why this way, where is he taking us. Kevin sensing the confusion provided information on the next section of the ride including what directions to turn at the next 3 intersections. That was all that was needed. The group quickly calmed down and scurried off in the directions Kevin provided. With the confidence now of where they were headed Steve and Todd took to challenging themselves with a playful exchange of “no one’s wheel gets ahead of mine”. Kevin Ron and Christy all kept together as they also increased the pace, but in a more mature manner. The route took the riders to Holt and then across 55 and to the turn on Roberts.
Everyone was together at Roberts which is a great place to form a hard charging draft line. Without suggesting this, the group formed a well organized pace line and all riders enjoyed the 25 – 28 mile an hour section of road. A right turn onto Green Level Church road had the pack scattering to avoid the many nasty pot holes. A left turn onto Green Level positioned the riders for the next several miles of rolling hills. Steve and Todd jumped to the lead to prepare for the many attacks as each would challenge the other in a scamper up the hill. Kevin, Ron, and Christy all did a great job of motoring up the hills maintaining most of the speed they had from the bottom all the way to the top. This type of riding requires a proper balance between keeping the rpms high by shifting at the right times, and increasing the pressure on the peddles to match the pressure/resistance of the climb (again a more mature method of bike ridding vs the scamper). The first hill had Steve and Todd circling as they waited for Kevin to indicate if they were to turn or go straight. Again Kevin’s plan was proving effective in keeping the kids from running away. On straight with several more hills to challenge the riders. The pack all made the next turn indicated by Kevin which was a left onto Luther. This road is also full of inclines with one particular one being long and curving, usually requiring a short time out of the saddle to be able to respond to the incline without getting bogged down. A quick right turn onto 751 and then the very next left onto Horton Pond had the group all back together again, although not for long. Everyone knew where they were and also knew there would be no turns for at least 3 miles till the end of that road. Steve, Todd, and Ron all began to accelerate together on the fist, and only downhill section of the road. Kevin was still sucking on a water bottle working to recover from the last group of hills and prepare himself for the stair step set of climbs that lay ahead. Christy was playing it cool, not even breathing hard or sweating, an easy days ride for this Triathlete.
Just as the three riders in the lead were half way thru the downhill run a CRY went out “LONE RIDER ON THE HORIZON”. Steve and Todd gathered themselves for the attack just as Ron Clanton went flying by them. That move startled Steve and Todd long enough to give Ron a full 3 bike lengths before the other two could respond. As if they had Nitrous oxide boosters Steve and Todd ignited themselves into a full on sprint. The sprint did not let up for the entire 3 mile push as they had a great deal of distance to make up on the lone rider who was also riding at a stiff pace.
Actually the best way to describe the scene would be to recall one’s childhood and the launching of model rockets. A PSST sound and the rocket was out of site.
Ron pushed hard to match the acceleration of the other two. Kevin and Christy could see from their advantage point that even with Ron’s hard charge the gap between him and the other two only grew larger with each revolution of the peddles. Over the next 3 miles Kevin, Christy, and later Ron, (once the three had regrouped) had to strain their eyes to see far enough in the distance to witness the two running down the lone rider. They had to take the entire 3 miles to clip the wings of their pray. They caught the rider just as Horton Pond came to an end. After Steve and Todd described how they destroyed the lone rider the group’s attention shifted to know what direction to take with most anticipating for a right turn towards lake Jordan. “LEFT TURN” barked Kevin.
Headed towards Highway 64 and the main body of water that makes up Lake Jordan. Kevin took the lead as the group formed a single line to allow for the increase in traffic flow for cars that wanted to pass. Down the hill and over the bridge were Ferrington Road passes over a section of Jordan Lake. This was followed by a long steady climb up out of Lake Jordan to High Way 64 and Farrington. Kevin was still in the lead doing his best not to slow the progress of the riders behind. 19 miles an hour became 18 then 17, then 15. Todd yells from somewhere in the pace line “My heart rate monitor is registering 64 bpm, now it is 55 bpm. Pick up the pace before I go to Sleep”. Kevin could not respond as he was focused on doing his best just to keep the speed at a pace were the bike could be balanced keeping the rider and bike from falling over. A turn into the gas station for a planned yet not announced break. “A Break, we do not need a break, Breaks are for wimps”. Again Kevin could not respond due to his effort to oxygenate himself as best he could. Several took advantage of the restroom, consumed any snacks they had in their jersey pockets, and hydrated themselves from their water bottles. The pace at that point was averaging at 18 mph.
Back on the bikes again with Kevin once more in the lead. The pack headed west on 64 towards lake Jordan and the next right turn onto Big Woods. Kevin’s lead position was quickly replaced by Todd who was now ready to push hard into the head wind and get his heart rate back into target zone. The group again formed a single file to accommodate for the narrow shoulder and fast moving cars that needed to pass without having to make lane changes or slow their momentum. This stretch of road had the group again hitting speeds over 21 mph. Everyone was focused on the wheel ahead making sure they did not overlap while working to maintain as small a gap as possible between them. By the end of this stretch the pack had splintered with several riders having to push hard against the wind having lost the draft of the person in front.
A right turn onto Big Woods and another 5 miles of rolling hills with one long one just towards the far end of the road. The group rode in a tight group with Steve and Todd talking non-stop. It is not clear what the subject matter was but it was clearly important to them as they talked the entire 5 miles about it. That last long uphill splintered the group again as Steve and Todd continued their game of scamper up the hill with Ron, Kevin, and Christy now looking even more mature than ever in their attack of the hill (slow). A right turn off of Big Woods and onto Jack Bennit with a yield onto Lystra. Kevin and Christy were now in the lead with a considerable gap between them and the three others. Both Christy and Kevin realized that no one was jumping out to close the gap. Clearly no one in the trailing group were concerned that She and Kevin would be able to maintain their lead, and that normal easy riding by the pack would swallow up these two riders with ease. This was accomplished as described within the next mile. Another planned unannounced stop at the gas station at Lystra and Farrington. Again lots of verbal abuse was provided to the rider leader who had charted out the course. Again everyone consumed some fluids and snacks that they had with them. During this stop Todd was describing how the InsideOut riders would drop him without any concern for him or his safety, and he appreciates the fact that we do not behave the same way.
"We don't drop you because we can not Catch you" was the comment that had the group all laughing in unison.
Back on the bikes and onto Farrington for the run to Lake Jordan and the turn at Martha Chapel.
“GO GET HIM GUYS”.
Yes another lone rider in the distance.
Steve and Todd did not hesitate to take chase. Ron let them jump and then he too turned on the after burners to close the gap on the lone rider. Christy was watching this all unfold and commented shortly after the attack began “I wonder if they will trash talk the rider when they discover he is carrying what looks to be groceries in a basket?”.
From this distance it did appear that this lone rider was not in the standard biking attire or ridding position, and did appear to have something on the back of the bike. The Testosterone Riders were all now closing the gap on this lone rider. As Steve and Todd over took the rider they were heard laughing and discussing loudly with this vanquished rider. Then Steve and Todd took off racing towards the turn at Martha Chapel. Ron was next to swing past the lone rider. Kevin with Christy in tow finally closed the gap enough to draft this lone rider for about ½ mile. During this draft Both Kevin and Christy were pulled along by the lone rider at 21 miles per hour. The whole time Kevin and Christy did not say a word as they scoped out the spectacle provide by the rider who was providing the draft.
Studying the scene provided the following interesting details. T
he rider was on a hybrid bike (not mountain bike, not road bike – but one that tries to support either),
The riders bike was equipped with a wire basket on the back.
In the basket was a 5 gal bait bucket that was held in place by elastic bungee cords.
The rider was sitting up right with an orange jacket that is used to ward off evil vehicles as they pass.
The rider was very friendly and wished those that passed to have a great day.
Kevin and Christy took their time passing as they took in all there was to notice.

Once the Testosterone Riders had all reassembled onto Martha Chapel, Steve Cope informed everyone that he had learned from his brief conversation (Trash talk) with the lone rider. We learned that this - vanquished bait bucket hybrid rider - was 87 years old and was headed to the strawberry patch to pick a bucket of strawberries, and then would head home. We also learned that the Gentleman politely turned down the standard fee of $10 that Steve Cope told him was required to join our pace line.
So let it be known that Steve can add to his victory’s - the Fire Hydrant that he mistook for a lone rider last week, and Now a 87 year old strawberry picking, bait bucket carrying, Hybrid bike rider.
Who or what will be his next victim.

Now on Martha Chapel the group again formed into an organized pack and began the 4 mile pull up the smooth road of Martha Chapel to the right turn onto 751 and the Strawberry patch. Steve challenged the pack to ride harder as he kept looking behind to track the progress of his most resent victim who was seen turning the corner right behind the pack and headed their way.
A right turn onto 751 followed by a left turn off it onto Luter Shop now had the riders sliding past the folks who were all bent over picking strawberry’s from the “pick your own strawberry patch”. Kevin informed the group that they would be taking a right turn in a few miles onto White Oak Church and that there will be limited opportunities for speed play after that. So the pace quickened the draft line reformed and the miles on Luter Shop did not last long. The turn onto White Oak provided for a fast downhill and a steep climb at the other end. All the riders knew of what lay ahead and again Steve and Todd jumped into action with Steve leaving everyone well behind by the time he crested the hill. Ron, Kevin and Christine all finished the climb in no particular order, with each taking turns leading for a few moments only to be passed by another who’s rpm’s had not yet slowed, to then only give up the lead to another who had just adjusted for the climb.
Steve and Todd were again circling at the intersection waiting for Kevin’s next command. “Left turn and then a right at Green Level Church, but do not get to far ahead on Green Level Church because I have a Surprise ending” Kevin announced. On this downhill run to the next turn the group was able to stay together due to Gravity assisting Ron and Kevin allowing them to stay with Christy, Steve, and Todd.
A right turn onto Green Level Church had the pack slowing waiting to find out what Kevin was going to suggest next. Within about ¼ mile Kevin signaled for a left turn and informed everyone to stay way left and proceed single file. In between the gate posts the riders proceeded, each one saying “I did not know this was here”. The Testosterone riders were now on a bike trail that would take them the last 4 miles on a journey that wondered past river beds, ponds, rolling hills, into and out of neighborhoods. As these riders proceeded they rode with care to avoid the dogs, baby strollers, joggers, walkers, small kids on bikes. The bike path took a route thru a tunnel under highway 55 where each rider hooted and hollered at the top of their lungs to hear the echo created in the tunnel. The path ended with the riders being dropped off in the Davis School parking lot. From hear they made the turn onto Waldo Rooe saying goodbye to Todd who headed straight on Davis towards his home. He enjoyed the ride but felt the pace a little slow for him so he planned to do a 6 mile run to cap of the ride ( another one of those Tri-ASSholetes). A left turn onto Cary Parkway and a fast run down hill to the start/finish had the Testosterone riders covering their 45 miles at an average speed of 16.4 mph.



Sunday May 18th
A repeat of Saturday for the Testosterone Riders.

In attendance
Carolyn and Steve Sparano
Kevin and Theresa Smit
David Bridenbaugh – rode bike to the start
Steve Cope
Brian Farkuss – 2nd time on the ride for this season.
Jae Brainard
Also making a bagle run but not riding was Todd Pechner .
Tim Jensen – just in the nick of time – and only the 2nd time riding with the group
And later we picked up Tom Plant alongside the road

As the group was readying their bikes a lone rider entered the parking lot. He circled slowly around the group and then asked if he could join. Immediately Steve Cope saw an opportunity to punish new meat. “Sure as long as you don’t mind being verbally abused during the ride” was Steve’s welcoming remark. With that expectation clearly communicated the new rider was introduced to the group. Kevin made brief introductions letting the group learn that Tim Jensen would be joining the Testosterone Riders today.

Kevin suggested that the Testosterone Riders do the same route as Saturday. This was accepted by everyone since the only riders that experienced it Saturday were Steve Cope and Kevin. This would be something new for the rest. Everyone was allowed to chime in on acceptance of the 45 mile distance, and no one suggested shorting the route. Kevin informed the riders that the route can easily be altered as the day unfolded to accommodate for shorter or longer distances. Brain Farkus later took up the offer to shorten the route. Kevin explained the path back that would allow Brian to accomplish a 30 mile ride. Brain was comfortable with the route design and was confident he could easily follow it back to the start. The altered route had Brain splitting off from the group at the corner of Horton Pond and Farrington with him heading back on Holland Chapel.
With that those representing the Testosterone riders included:
Steve Sparano – known as Steve S for this write up
Steve Cope – Know as Steve C, or the Social Chairman, or the Chiwawa, or the angry chipmunk for this write up
Tim Jensen – the new guy (although we learned he rode the Sunday of Mothers day in the rain with Steve C and Tim Travitz.) So this is his second time with the group this season – Welcome Back Tim.
Brain Farkus – second time this season also – Welcome back Brian.
David Bridenbaugh – on his new Carbon Fiber frame from Felt.
Kevin Smit
The group later picked up a lone rider who jumped into to ride with them to the finish.
The group learned that his name was Tom Plant - Welcome to the group Tom we hope you join us for more rides this season.

This ride write up can be best experienced by first reading Saturdays write-up and substitute Tim for every Time Todd is mentioned during Saturday’s ride. The route was the same the attacks were led mainly by the angry chipmunk and Todd with David Bridenbaugh always in the hunt and doing long pulls from the front. In fact the pull during the run on Roberts road, David sustained the lead pulling the pack at a steady 28 miles an hour. This is a speed the other riders can only achieve on their own going downhill.
This amazing effort by MR BRIDENBAUGH was accomplish against a very stiff head wind. HE also pulled the entire length of Big Woods at speeds well over 21 miles per hour leaving Kevin Smit falling off the pace immediately and later dropping Steve S. After that long pull it was the chiwawa that egged Tim into a sprint to the finish up hill at the end of Big Woods catching David by surprise as the two riders attacked from behind with no warning. Notice the angry Chipmunk drafts the entire way and then jumps to an imaginary finish line with arms raised in victory. Tim did more than his share of pulling during the day matching MR BRIDENBAUGH’s long pull efforts. Tim pulled the entire length of highway 64 holding a steady speed of 20 miles per hour into the stiffest head wind of the day. What is amazing about this is that Tim sustained that steady speed regardless of hills or flat sections and with no speedometer to help him monitor the pace. Kevin marveled at this as he kept close to Tim’s wheel and glanced back and forth between his own speedometer and heart rate monitor. The speedometer held steady but the heart rate monitor jumped as the demand for more blood to the leg, heart, and lungs increased with the effort.
As with the Saturday Ride Kevin announced the stops at Farrington and 64 and again at Lystra and Farrington. Again there was a lot of grief from the group suggesting that stops are for sissies, and yet everyone took full advantage of the stop to hydrate and consume a snack they had brought.
The group met Tom along Luter Shop road just past the Strawberry patch. Tom was invited to jump in and join the draft line. He responded promptly. The group learned that Tom had started his ride from about the same location in Cary and our return route was designed to return him back safely. In the end this group covered the same distance as Saturday’s ride and did it in a full mile per hour faster against stiffer head wind. We blame MR. BRIDENBAUGH and Tim Jensen for the increased speed due to their solid pulls from the front of the pack.

Mothers day weekend bike rides

Saturday May 10th.
Good turn out on a nice morning.
Representing the “Smell the Roses” riders were:
Tracy Clanton
Beth Gonzalez
Shelia – I can not remember her last name
Theresa Smit was on a business trip and extended stay to visit her son Kiehl and her mom for Mothers day weekend.

Representing the “Testosterone” riders were:
Ron Clanton
Todd Pechner
Steve Cope
John Majikes
Kevin Smit
And first time with the group Doug Who is Shelia’s husband.

Today’s ride can be summed up for the “Smell the Roses” riders as a smooth out and back jaunt.
For the “Testosterone” riders the ride can be summed up as a 4 out of 6 mechanical failures ride.

The “Testosterone” riders did not make it to Ron’s pull before Doug had issues with his front tire. The brakes were found rubbing on the top of the tire. Once adjusted to resolve that issue the brakes then rubbed on the rim. With some additional tweaks the tire rotated fine with the wheel held off the ground. Just then the “Smell the Roses” swept past the disabled “Testosterone” riders. In the effort to take chase the “Testosterone” riders had to make an additional stop for John Majikes who’s rear tire flatted just as he began to head out from Doug’s bike repair. The group stopped with Steve Cope jumping into action to perform a Tire Change that would make any NASCAR Pit crew envious. During this time John could only be heard saying “I am Getting A NEW BIKE”. Again the entire group voted in favor of John’s NEW BIKE.
Once again the “Testosterone” riders launched into the day’s ride (this makes the third start for the day). Within ¼ mile Doug’s tire was again rubbing against the front breaks. This was just as Ron and others started the hard push on Ron’s Pull Road. Kevin and John Majikes were with Doug as he pulled over to again deal with this issue. Doug was so frustrated that he elected to turn towards home, which was a short distance from his current location. Kevin was ready to join him to help ensure a safe journey. John Majikes insisted that he join Doug home and that Kevin go on with the group. John announced he wanted to call it a day and go BUY A NEW BIKE.
So with everyone in agreement the “Testosterone” riders split with 2 headed home and the remaining 4 charging down the road. The ride continued as usual with each rider taking turns at the lead heading towards UpChuck hill. As the climb of UpChuck approached Steve Cope and Todd set themselves up to charge hard on the uphill. Just as this started to unfold the “Smell the Roses” riders were found on their return trip from UpChuck as they were now headed back to the start. Kevin and Ron did not see who took the win on UpChuck. Both Todd and Steve had rocked past with so much intensity that they were over the top and out of sight before the other two could find the strength to lift their heads from the climb.
A right turn after UpChuck put the riders on the rolling hills towards Mt. Pisgah and ultimately Luther shop road. As Kevin and Ron did their best to close the gap on Steve and Todd, Kevin had a slight mechanical problem with his bike. A small plastic (not carbon fiber) component on the seat fell off on to the road. By the time Kevin discovered this they had covered several hundred yards. Both Kevin and Ron turned to back track in order to find this part. Riding along they scoured the roadside in an effort to find this small plastic part. After several minutes the part was found in the road with the screw still in the part. This was great Kevin could now easily reattach the part onto the seat. As he dug through the tool bag for a Phillips screwdriver Kevin dropped the screw. It hit the bike and flew into the ditch. RATS. Both Kevin and Ron were now found on hands and knees looking for a black colored screw in tall grass. After again several minutes they concluded that the screw is no recoverable and Kevin would have to find another one once he returned home.
On the bikes again Ron and Kevin knew they were now officially a splinter group from the “Testosterone” riders, Steve and Todd were no where to be found. Ron and Kevin finished the ride making the run to Lake Jordan and back without further mechanical issues.
Upon arriving at the start/finish they learned that Steve Cope had developed mechanical issues on the ride as well. One of his peddles would not snap his cleat in securely. This forced Steve to finish the last 5 or more miles peddling with just one foot. This meant his speed dropped from 23 miles per hour to 22.5 miles per hour on this last leg of the ride.
Another fine day’s ride with plenty of experiences.
We cannot wait to see John’s NEW BIKE.


Mother’s day Sunday May 11th.
Ride was Rained out.

May 4th - a Rose among Thorns

Kevin and Theresa were seated at Brugers sipping coffee and enjoying a bagel when Kevin’s phone rang. It was Steve Cope calling to inform the group that Brian Farkus (who had joined the group last Sunday after a year away) was sick and could not make the days ride. Steve also went on to explain he too would not be on the days ride as he had far too much to accomplish before he left town on his fishing trip.
Fishing is soooo much like Golf. A lot of what has been written regarding the merits of golf would likely apply to fishing.
And now for a short rant about Fisherman. Do you Recall the rant about Golfers?

Fisherman find it enjoyable to sit all day long with their pole in hand.
Their eyes are forever fixed on their rod to see if it remains stiff.
They wait long hours in great anticipation for something to tug on the end of their rod forcing it to bow ever so slightly. Then with a strong jerk they spring into action pulling and tugging doing their very best to keep what is on the end from falling off.
Most accomplished fisherman know just how had to jerk their rods to land the big ones.
We believe Steve might be one of those who spend a great deal of time jerking hard on his rod only to discover it does him no good.

When Steve returns to the ride lets all treat him nice since he will likely be very frustrated and tired from all that FISHING.

OK so who is going to show up today.
Kevin and Theresa are ready to ride together and enjoy the days warm sunshine.
Just as they were preparing to assemble their bikes David Bridenbaugh rode up on his NEW BIKE. That’s right David has a NEW CARBON FRAME from Felt that he has built up with parts from several of his other bikes.
SO this is the season for new bikes.
Tracy Clanton
Theresa Smit
David Bridenbaugh
And soon John Majikes
All with new bikes.

The group was also joined on today’s ride by Tim Traviz on his Cervelo. The bike looked as new as the day he bought it. Kevin accused Tim of spending $100 to have it detailed. Tim did not dispute this claim.

The group left the parking lot with a Rose and several thorns. Theresa representing the Rose’s and Tim, David and Kevin representing the thorns (testosterone riders). The group did a great job of riding as a pack. Theresa did a great job of staying with the thorns on the flats and only falling behind slightly on the climbs. The Thorns did a good job of holding their pace allowing Theresa to draft as best she could allowing her to reach speeds of 19 miles an hour over several long stretches of the ride. The group worked well together all the way to the run towards UpChuck. On UpChuck Kevin’s momentum (created by mass and gravity) placed him for a brief period of time in the lead headed up the hill. With little effort David Bridenbaugh and Tim walked past him to easily crest the hill long before Kevin or Theresa. The group reassembled as if they were a flock of Vultures circling at the top of the hill as both Kevin and Theresa did their best to not make them wait for long. The group continued to ride well allowing for Theresa to stop once and blow her nose. She scolded the group for not taking stops as if that is an integral part of a bike ride. The Thorns did not respond as the concept of stopping is not normally a component of their rides. The Testosterone riders took a short stop Saturday so that should have met the requirement if there is one. The group rode on making the turn onto Martha Chapel and the long pull towards Lake Jordan. A left turn onto Farrington with the first left onto Holland Chapel now had the group headed home. Once at the turn by the strawberry patch the Rose was beginning to wilt. Kevin suggested that David and Tim ride on with Kevin and the Rose bringing it home for themselves. At this point the group splintered with each finishing the ride as best they could. A wonderful day of riding with little traffic, warm sun, and a Rose that Rode hard. Kevin and Theresa finished the ride with Theresa having accomplished 35 miles at 14.4 mph average. This is further and faster than the Roses typically go. Great job, only to be followed up with a full day of yard work.

May 3rd ride

A bright warm and windy weekend of riding.
Each day had riders exclaiming how wonderful the day was.
On Saturday the Roses were represented by
Theresa Smit
Tracy Clanton
Jae Brainard
With a surprise visit prior to the start by Sara Powell. She stopped in long enough to visit and let everyone know how she misses the group and the rides. She is working on resting and healing an issue with her wrist.

Assembled for the days ride for the Testosterone riders were
Kevin Smit
Steve Sparano
Steve Cope
Ron Clanton
John Majikes

The group was herded out of Brugers by Ron as he stood and announced the countdown to the start.
Once in the parking lot Theresa was showing off her new bike to those who had not yet seen it. Her new bike and its gearing configuration seems to have provided Theresa with a 3 - 5 mile an hour advantage over her classic 1979 bike.

Kevin was last to prepare as everyone was anxious to begin the days ride. The two groups launched themselves out of the parking lot and onto the roads of Cary and soon Morrisville with the target being the run towards Jordan Lake.
During the days ride John’s classic Greg LeMond bike was misbehaving. His gears would automatically keep shifting. This forced John to ride in only his three middle gears. John needs a new bike. Everyone on the day’s ride voted for John to get a new bike. The group used Tim as the perfect mindset to get a new bike. If you recall Tim was found not long ago alongside the road with a broken chain. To solve this problem he went out and bought a brand new Cervelo.
The testosterone riders did not hesitate to demonstrate they were ready for the speed play comprised of long pulls, periodic attacks from the pack, and scampering up hills. The first of these came with the long pull by Ron Clanton hitting speeds of 25 miles per hour on the stretch of road now Known as Ron’s Pull. Those not participating in the chase were Kevin, and John who both kept a steady pace of 19 miles an hour on that stretch. As Ron, and those he pulled along, approached the T intersection that signaled the end of the pull Steve Cope jumped out of his seat, threw his bike from side to side, and slung himself past Ron to take the prize just like Terry Labonte, or Dale Earnhardt would in a stock car race. As Kevin and John approached the T intersection it was clear what had transpired ahead of them. Steve Cope was giggling with pure delight. That was all the information needed for these slower riders to know what had just taken place. The group reformed itself into an organized draft line to make the run down Fire Station Church Road and to the left turn on Yates Store, where each rider would prepare for the attack on UpChuck hill. Today’s UpChuck assault had predictable results. Steve Cope takes the preem by leaving everyone far behind as he crested the hill. Next was Steve Sparano followed by a cluster of the remaining 3 riders. Steve Sparano was the feisty one this day. On several occasions he would jump out in front to egg the other Steve into the speed play. Without fail Steve Cope would let the gap widen, then would look around as if to say “Aren’t you going to take chase”? Then realizing no one was foolish enough to join in Steve would spring out of his saddle and in just a few short peddle strokes he would breeze past everyone to close the gap and not slow until he was well in the lead. Only then would he turn and smile to announce his victory. This was how the day unfolded with Steve and Steve constantly engaged in speed play, Ron would take the lead on long stretches and pull the group along, Kevin and John were happy to carry on conversation and do their best to hold on during the Ron Pulls, and smile each time Steve would challenge Steve. During the last stretch of the ride the group splintered into 3 with Steve Cope charging hard as a solo rider followed in the distance by Steve Sparano and John Majikes, who were then followed some distance behind by Kevin and Ron. From the advantage point that Ron and Kevin had Steve Cope had become nothing more than a dot in the distance, and Steve S and John appeared as a single rider due to their efficient draft line. The group did not form again until the turn towards High House and the finish line. Once the group had collected itself again Steve Cope explained that he had to attack since he saw a lone rider on the horizon and it was his duty to take chase. It was Steve Sparano who correctly identified that lone rider in the distance as a FIRE HYDRANT. Once this was made public everyone wanted to know why it took Steve Cope so long to finally catch that lone object in the distance. A good laugh was had by all.
The Testosterone riders completed 38 miles at an average pace just over 16 miles per hour, with one stop at the gas station (turn around spot) on Lystra and Farrington Road.

The smell the roses also enjoyed the wonderful day and great friendships during the ride. The ladies were all asking Kevin to return Theresa’s new bike because she was riding much faster than before, forcing the Smell the Roses to speeds they were not accustomed to.

End of March brings different challenges for each rider

March goes out like a lethargic Lion.
accept for John Majikes

here is some of his adventures for that weekend followed by our weekend ride write up.
John writes:
Kevin, I rode up to Richmond on Thursday/Friday.180 miles in two days.
So I am planning on doing the Gulf of Mexico/Lake Ontario trip in June 2009.
http://danielsdorights.org/test_ride_files/TestRide.htm

Had my GPS Edge 705 battery go out
Had 3 flats in 60 miles
Had four rotwhilers chase me once
Had two pit bulls
State Troopers didn't stop for me when I was fixing a flat.
But a nice young lady did.
Lots of good stories so that I don't keep telling the same ones over, and over, and over, again.

John


For the rest of the weekend riders (not worthy of the challenge that John put upon himself).

The sky was gray, the wind was building in intensity, the temperature was expected to drop. Not a great day for a bike ride.
In attendance were Steve Cope, Kevin Smit, and Todd Pechner all representing the Testosterone riders. Those making sure the ‘Smell the Roses” riders were represented were the diehards Theresa Smit and Jae Brainard.
The riders all applied layers of clothing including leg warmers, arm warmers, booties, and jackets. The pack left the parking lot at 8:30 am sharp even without Ron’s atomic clock to announce the official start time. Today’s ride starts off with the wind hitting the riders from all directions.
As the group worked their way through Preston the pace and heart rates slowly increased. Steve Cope was not his normal Chihuahua self. Google definition of a Chihuahua (A pint-sized canine with a macho streak). Steve was struggling as many do with the high pollen count. Theresa was also being affected and was constantly stopping to blow her nose. Steve’s biggest issue was not a runny nose but a severe head ach.
Todd was ready to attack – recover and attack again. Today he would have to attack imaginary riders as Kevin is never in shape enough to participate in the game, and Steve was too miserable to make the game interesting.
Early in the ride each of the Testosterone riders took turns at the pull helping protect others from the wind and keeping the speed at or above 20 mph. As UpChuck hill approached Todd asked Steve if the $100 stage win was still in effect. (Steve has consistently suggested that Kevin pays the winner of the climb a financial reward. In the beginning the suggested amount was $10. This then became $20, and now this season apparently it is $100 to the winner of the climb on UpChuck hill.)
Steve’s response was YES as he sprung out of the saddle and scampered up the hill. His explosive climb had him cresting the hill with Todd only at the half way mark, and Kevin just beginning the climb. Steve then waited at the top circling like a bird of pray waiting for fresh meat. This was the last attack of the day from Steve.
He was trying to cough up a lung, and his head was in so much pain he had turned ashen white. Clearly Steve was not feeling well at all. Todd took full control of the rest of the ride. He knew he was not going to be able to attack as usual so he elected to challenge himself in another way. He took the lead and Pulled the other riders along for the majority of the rest of the ride. He charged head first into the wind allowing Steve and Kevin to fall in line behind reducing their work load significantly even at the stiff pace Todd set. The group covered the route that put them on the familiar roads of Martha Chapel, Farrington, Horton Pond, Luther, and Green Level.
On Horton Pond road Steve Cope looked to the other riders and apologized. “I am sorry that I have not verbally abused you Kevin, and that I have not responded to Todd’s aggressive riding, I am just not feeling like myself today, This headache is killing me.”
“It has been rather boring”, was the reply from both Kevin and Todd.
The riders did elect to mix it up towards the end by turning onto Wimberly and the hills that would challenge them in these final miles of the days ride. The sky was still gray, the wind had increased exponentially, and the Temperature felt colder due to the increase in wind velocity. As the group climbed the long steady hill of Wimberly they began to feel drops of rain. By the time they finished the climb drops became and ever increasing mist. As they turned onto Jenks road the mist turned to rain.
This is also were the riders encountered the Dumb Ass Drivers of the day. As they rode single file battling rain and head winds one gentleman decided he needed to let the group know they did not belong in his lane let alone on the road. He passed the group maintaining his full rights to the lane at speeds that were above the posted limit. As he passed he gestured to the group to get off the road.

What emotional – Mental process takes place in the brain of a mature adult who uses a 6,000 lb vehicle to send this message to others balancing on skinny tires on a 16 lb vehicle?


I wish one day a policeman would observe this behavior and arrest the individual and charge them with attempted murder by use of a lethal weapon.


The riders continued their quest towards the end and with a turn off of Holt and onto Jenks Carpenter Rd they encountered another individual who did not believe Bicyclists belong within 100 ft of his space on this planet.
This individual felt compelled to honk at the riders as he turned left into his sub-division.

The riders were confused by his actions since this driver was never delayed and never even had to share any section of the road with the cyclists. Must have just been a bad DAY (blame it on the weather).

The rest of the ride had Todd peeling off from the pack at High House and Up Church road so he could ride home. Todd had ridden to the start and was now only blocks from home at the end of the group’s bike route for that day. Kevin and Steve finished the run down High House and into the parking lot where it all began that gray day. A strong ride even with stiff head winds, cold, rain, and a sick Steve Cope.

Lets all wish Todd a great race on April 12th when he participates in a local sprint series Triathalon.
And lets also all think about Christy Miller (Pink Tri-atholete) who will be participating in a full ironman Triathalon on April 13th. Full ironman is 2.25 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run.
Clearly something to do on a day when you have nothing better to do with youself.

WE expect them both to enjoy the experience and share thier stories with us.

Sunday March 30th was to be an organized ride with the North Carolina Bike Club.
Cold and Rain kept our group from attending. Clearly a fair weather ride organization.
Our priorities are
Fun
Comfort
Fun
Easy workout
Fun
Comfort
Friendship
Comfort
Fun
Easy Workout
Fun
Friendship
.........
.........
.........

In no specific order.