It was the year of the Boston bomb, the Rana plaza collapse, the Oklahoma tornado, the runaway Qebec train, typhoon Haiyan, Sarin attacks in Damascus, the Higgs boson Nobel prize, Soverieign Borders policy, the US Fiscal Cliff, Edward Snowden spying and NSW bushfires. We saw Julia then Kevin go, Tony arrive, Benedict out then Francis in, Prince George born and Morsi deposed. We lost Ronnie Biggs, Margaret Thatcher, Lee Rigby and Nelson Mandela.
Another year over and a new one just begun said Mr Lennon. 2013 has passed fast, seems the years accelerate a bit more every year. I can't rely on a poor memory, the habit of keeping a bike diary recalls many moments otherwise destined to oblivion. Yes, it may be a bit too number nerdy, but it keeps things positive to look back at where you've come from. (despite the rare and miniscule increases in performance)
It took 2 Vredesteins, 4 Michelins, 5 tubes, 3 chains and 2 services to get through the year. (only 8 punctures) Travels included a Tour de Pub, a Cat lap, a Fruitloop, a Breakaway ride, a Fryers to Flinders, 2 Dookie circuits, 2 Ardmona loops, 2 Camel laps, 3 Kyabram courses, 3 goes at the 7 (or is it 21?) bridges, 3 laps with Wozza, 3 Rushworth rides, 16 with the P&W's, 21 short (solo) circuits, 24 with the Library bunch, 26 solo Toaster laps, 31 Kialla Couldabeens, 34 with the Hospital bunch, 48 Saturday circuits, 61 Tues/Thurs Couldabeens blasts and 89 laps with long time bike buddy Cougar. 21 rides were at 2 degrees or below, just 6 were over 30, several frosts and lots of wind (one at 56km/h) tested the resolve. 31 rides were rain abandoned, 3 from being crook. Guinea fowl, rabbits, dogs and monkeys (driving cars) kept our wits sharp, I bit the dust once, Mike had a Tuesday night stack, Jamie a Thursday night gymnastic prang and June 7 claimed many injuries with 51. My October challenge chalked up 1613k's, I turned up to a Library bunch of one (me) in September, the bike turned 9 years old, I lost count of the coffee and banana toast consumption and I was pretty chuffed to clock a Fryers to Flinders (173km) in 5:02:09.
The years' 18,028 km burned up 414,318 calories, the equivalent of a rather large Christmas dinner ;
100kg of roast turkey, 50kg of leg ham, 30kg of roast beef, 50kg of roast chicken, 5 kg of garlic prawns, 40 large roast potatoes, 25kg of baked pumpkin, 20 roast carrots, 10kg of beans and a 14kg plum pudding with 4 litres of custard, and one wafer thin chocolate mint, all washed down with 12 bottles of red. Buurrrpp.....
But the important data is thanks. Thanks guys and girls for all for the advice, the stories, the tows, the waves, the experiences, the support, the laughs and the friendship. Far more important than the numbers. Might just do it all again next year............
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Thursday, December 26, 2013
Week 52: Jack attacks and paying penance
A most civilised start to a weekend, breakfast al fresco in a perfect 17 degree atmostphere, watching an Euskaltel orange dawn and contemplating the weekend ahead. Headed south to the start line, collecting Wozza en-route. A big turn out in festive spirit, maybe to burn some calories before the Christmas carbo loading session? PistolPete, Trav, Cougar, Jase, Shorty, Nick, Pom, Rocket, HBK, WhisperingJack, Supermario, BigMat, FujiTrev, AvantiTrev and a suprise (and most welcomed) inclusion of Tommygun and Weapon to the ranks. The constabulary were out in force on a nearby mission, WhisperingJack on a mission of force at the front of our pack, dragging Wozza unwittingly into a half wheeled battle. The mad rush settled soon after when I drew the short straw of a shift at the front with Pistol into the southerly, then intermission was called when AvantiTrev punctured just before the Cypress trees. (nobody to assist him change the tube but he winds up doing almost everyone else's) Underway soon after, speed restrictions were relaxed with a tailwind in Boundary (Trev's Christmas bonus?) adding Smuggler to the pack on the leg to Old Dookie, but losing BigMat on his early exit for family travels. A long line traversed to the toaster and enjoyed an easy breeze to the Emu. No evidence of Cats on our pilgrimage back to town (they'd avoided recent reseals of Ford by diverting via New Dookie) but WhisperingJack picked up the entertainment with another squirt at the front to silence most talk (no fines issued though). Ford Rd's reseal was quite bearable, just a few loose stones to keep clear of, so onward it was to Wanganui & Rudd, back to base via the Boulevard for a festive conversation of beards, cctv and police raids, Lemontree service back to normal but a defiant smoker spoilt the atmostphere.
Festive festivities occupied Sunday keeping the bike stabled, welcomed rain spoilt chances of a Monday morning fix. Christmas Eve's morning entourage was encouraging with a Couldabeens team of Temple, Trav, Nick, Shorty, Cougar, Rocket, Jase, Pom, HBK, WhisperingJack, FeltMat, BigMat, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev and PistolPete, many with tinsel, baubels, Santa hats etc to get into the spirit, BigMat one step ahead with carols on bluetooth speaker. Ange had been a last minute inclusion, delayed by puncture to a 51 appointment. Yuletide aerodynamics didn't hamper plenty of pace out Channel Rd, arriving at Boundary to give way to a small band of P&W's bearing south. We'd persued and passed them by the bridges, HWK, Stace and Comet joining in the rotations to make a bunch of 20. Yet another WhisperingJack attack (with BigMat) on the westward run in Mitchell. A big bunch meant less turns so there was no drama maintaining good momentum to the highway, Roubaix, Raftery then the Conrod thrash, new inclusion Ange took a challenge up to Rocket's back wheel but got no further. Many already in holiday mode opted for a Christmas Eve breakfast at the Lemontree, I squeezed in a few minutes for a social coffee while others kicked on with cooked breakfast, hydrated by champagne courtesy of FeltMat's generosity.
Temple, AvantiTrev, Shaz, Cougar, HBK and Zan made up a Couldabeens/Breakaway combo for a Boxing Day roll around. Another comfortable 17 degree start with a hint of northeasterly aided a roll down Archer to Mitchell, with a little effort to be expended east to Boundary then north up Boundary. Due consideration shown to Shaz & Zan, their turns well matched amongst several decades of experience. Christmas hadn't dampened Cat numbers, a sizeable pack storming west along Mitchell. The northeaster gradually built to become a bit of a chore, but hope springs eternal knowing there'd be a bonus for the homeward section. Good load sharing for the northward plug up to Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, the Breakaways extending their usual distance. Several sighs of relief on the turn west, just to have the breeze off the brow eases some stress. I'd say a few were feeling a little less guilty by burning a few calories from their Christmas dinner indulgence, a craving for Degani's banana & walnut toast may have motivated the steady roll home too. The quote "I ride to support my eating habit" had new credence. Back into town, a commute to the south to be seated and greeted by Luke (Degani's new captain), with some festive chat between toast tastings.
A bit of Fb negotiation organised a Friday lap, favouring a course to allow AvantiTrev to open the shop while most were in holiday mode. A 6am flag dropped for PistolPete, Rocket, Shorty, Nick, WhisperingJack, Temple, AvantiTrev and HBK arriving quite early (23 seconds to spare). Eastward bound (on Saturday's route) in Channel Rd at 6, on the front paired with PistolPete's pronto pace paid proper penance to yesterday's three and a half hour lunch at mum's (twas a sin to accept the extra slices of turkey and a second stab at the pudding) AvantiTrev's 35km/h peace accord broke down quickly, the pairing of WhisperingJack and HBK escalated into a 44km/h jihad by Channel's end. Rocket quickly shuffled the order to get to the front and impose a junta, sledging some punishment to Jack, rapidly expiring under the extended load. A southerly in Boundary kept momentum northward, Temple drove well up to Old Dookie nudging 40, I was glad Nick, Shorty and Trev had lower targets in mind. The Jack/HBK pairing struck again in the k up to the Emu, Rocket again inflicting duress upon the perpetrators. Speed settled soon after, back to the front with the heart rate hovering at 170 matching PistolPete was actually easier. Big chunks of scenery slipped by (concentration at speed erases sightseeing), soon with the coarse stone of Ford's new tarmac under the Michelins. Another hit by the militia nearing town fractured the bunch, my position mid field elected me (and PistolPete) the glue to hold the pack together. Many were greatful to halt for traffic at Numurkah Rd to catch up with oxygen intake, back into the pace though past DECA, a blast up Mt.Wanganui and home via Rudd, WhisperingJack turning the tables half biking HBK. Rocket took the trophy at the cemetery speed sign, I halted the Garmin soon after unknowingly at 1:00:00 precisely. Copious sledging at the Lemontree between the Schwarzenegger/DeVito twins (HBK/WhisperingJack) and a casual (light) breakfast was a great start to the day and end to a (short) bike week.
Week 52 : 201 km (Eucla to the middle of nowhere, 194k into S.A on the Nullabor) YTD 17,898km
"A word to the wise 'aint neccessary, it's the stupid ones that need advice"
Bill Cosby (1937- ) US comedian
A note of thanks to the many kind comments about the blog. Just a bit chuffed (and humbled) to
clock up 10,000 views :-) Word up for a special "2013 in review" edition mid next week.
Festive festivities occupied Sunday keeping the bike stabled, welcomed rain spoilt chances of a Monday morning fix. Christmas Eve's morning entourage was encouraging with a Couldabeens team of Temple, Trav, Nick, Shorty, Cougar, Rocket, Jase, Pom, HBK, WhisperingJack, FeltMat, BigMat, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev and PistolPete, many with tinsel, baubels, Santa hats etc to get into the spirit, BigMat one step ahead with carols on bluetooth speaker. Ange had been a last minute inclusion, delayed by puncture to a 51 appointment. Yuletide aerodynamics didn't hamper plenty of pace out Channel Rd, arriving at Boundary to give way to a small band of P&W's bearing south. We'd persued and passed them by the bridges, HWK, Stace and Comet joining in the rotations to make a bunch of 20. Yet another WhisperingJack attack (with BigMat) on the westward run in Mitchell. A big bunch meant less turns so there was no drama maintaining good momentum to the highway, Roubaix, Raftery then the Conrod thrash, new inclusion Ange took a challenge up to Rocket's back wheel but got no further. Many already in holiday mode opted for a Christmas Eve breakfast at the Lemontree, I squeezed in a few minutes for a social coffee while others kicked on with cooked breakfast, hydrated by champagne courtesy of FeltMat's generosity.
Temple, AvantiTrev, Shaz, Cougar, HBK and Zan made up a Couldabeens/Breakaway combo for a Boxing Day roll around. Another comfortable 17 degree start with a hint of northeasterly aided a roll down Archer to Mitchell, with a little effort to be expended east to Boundary then north up Boundary. Due consideration shown to Shaz & Zan, their turns well matched amongst several decades of experience. Christmas hadn't dampened Cat numbers, a sizeable pack storming west along Mitchell. The northeaster gradually built to become a bit of a chore, but hope springs eternal knowing there'd be a bonus for the homeward section. Good load sharing for the northward plug up to Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, the Breakaways extending their usual distance. Several sighs of relief on the turn west, just to have the breeze off the brow eases some stress. I'd say a few were feeling a little less guilty by burning a few calories from their Christmas dinner indulgence, a craving for Degani's banana & walnut toast may have motivated the steady roll home too. The quote "I ride to support my eating habit" had new credence. Back into town, a commute to the south to be seated and greeted by Luke (Degani's new captain), with some festive chat between toast tastings.
A bit of Fb negotiation organised a Friday lap, favouring a course to allow AvantiTrev to open the shop while most were in holiday mode. A 6am flag dropped for PistolPete, Rocket, Shorty, Nick, WhisperingJack, Temple, AvantiTrev and HBK arriving quite early (23 seconds to spare). Eastward bound (on Saturday's route) in Channel Rd at 6, on the front paired with PistolPete's pronto pace paid proper penance to yesterday's three and a half hour lunch at mum's (twas a sin to accept the extra slices of turkey and a second stab at the pudding) AvantiTrev's 35km/h peace accord broke down quickly, the pairing of WhisperingJack and HBK escalated into a 44km/h jihad by Channel's end. Rocket quickly shuffled the order to get to the front and impose a junta, sledging some punishment to Jack, rapidly expiring under the extended load. A southerly in Boundary kept momentum northward, Temple drove well up to Old Dookie nudging 40, I was glad Nick, Shorty and Trev had lower targets in mind. The Jack/HBK pairing struck again in the k up to the Emu, Rocket again inflicting duress upon the perpetrators. Speed settled soon after, back to the front with the heart rate hovering at 170 matching PistolPete was actually easier. Big chunks of scenery slipped by (concentration at speed erases sightseeing), soon with the coarse stone of Ford's new tarmac under the Michelins. Another hit by the militia nearing town fractured the bunch, my position mid field elected me (and PistolPete) the glue to hold the pack together. Many were greatful to halt for traffic at Numurkah Rd to catch up with oxygen intake, back into the pace though past DECA, a blast up Mt.Wanganui and home via Rudd, WhisperingJack turning the tables half biking HBK. Rocket took the trophy at the cemetery speed sign, I halted the Garmin soon after unknowingly at 1:00:00 precisely. Copious sledging at the Lemontree between the Schwarzenegger/DeVito twins (HBK/WhisperingJack) and a casual (light) breakfast was a great start to the day and end to a (short) bike week.
Week 52 : 201 km (Eucla to the middle of nowhere, 194k into S.A on the Nullabor) YTD 17,898km
"A word to the wise 'aint neccessary, it's the stupid ones that need advice"
Bill Cosby (1937- ) US comedian
A note of thanks to the many kind comments about the blog. Just a bit chuffed (and humbled) to
clock up 10,000 views :-) Word up for a special "2013 in review" edition mid next week.
Friday, December 20, 2013
Week 51: A suitable speedbump?
The regulars were at the carpark Saturday morning, many still rugged up for the unseasonal cool starts. The new Avanti Corsa gets Jase arriving early, Nick, AvantiTrev, Rocket, Temple, Cougar, DiscoSteve, FeltMat, FujiTrev, PistolPete and Trav completing the line-up. Nobody has moved the sun from blinding us in the first leg, just a few degrees to the right would be ok if anyone can arrange it? No early Breakaways to tempt the pace this morning, on cue HBK sides up in leg 4 for the ritual slab of sarcasm. Rocket was a little off line in leg 5, some spacial anomaly he was chuckling about? Christmas and it's load on work, shopping, parking and family seemed to dominate the chat. Nath arrived on cue in Boundary with a hint of southwesterly to propell us to the Toaster (eau de piggery turning most off bacon brekky....again) We were in pursuit of a small band of Tri club riders (good to see Sootie mobile after big knee rework) on course for a tour to Dookie and beyond, catching them by the rail line but judging best to stay behind with their trajectory right and ours left at the Emu. Shaz, Aimee, Zan & Patty came into view headed west in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, heads down attacking the SW breeze. HBK jumped ship to assist his boss and the crew, Nath ramped up the speed at the kennels to unhook a recovering DiscoSteve and stretch FujiTrev. (Rocket and Trav were quick to oblige a helping tow back to the bunch) Unity prevailed (a sizeable Cat pack cruised east), we'd reached Ford Rd for some rallycross action over the recent roadworks, thankfully well compacted dirt with just a few loose stones. Back onto terra firma after the rail line for a decent run to Ford's end, down Wanganui and into the breeze of Rudd. Boulevard done, then through the streets to base camp, the breakaways beating us to the prime seats. AstonMartin's, sausages, teamwork and "quiet roll arounds" were chewed over, the Lemontree on a go slow with coffee orders dragged out the pit stop.
The bike lay abandoned and neglected till Monday (such is the Christmas rush), a relaxed ride to re-aqauint limbs and limber up for the weeks few quick laps no doubt. Cougar & I set off south on Archer into a fresh southerly (breeze bunch some distance ahead on an early start), rolling a short route via Mitchell and Raftery to clock 25 and be at the coal face for the Christmas mahem. The afternoon beckoned a toaster lap with Woz keen to run in the new Scott. Nudging 30 degrees needed some climatisation to fluid intake, the strong SSW'er mocking the effort put into Conrod straight, at least some relief was had reaching Mitchell. We'd solved the worlds problems with the wind behind us, managing a decent rate of knots and a more than aerobic heart rate to boot. Maybe to justify the madness I was miraging letterboxes, walkers and rubbish bins as distant riders ; came to zero only ratifying the insanity. The honeymoon was over at the Emu, a hard push 20k's home with the heart rate hovering between 170 and 180. Wouldn't have pushed that hard on my own, but silly me picks a young fit guy to attempt to match! (thanks Woz, twas good but it did hurt!) Begging for slow moving trucks to draft off (none came of course) the road got longer and longer as the mental shovel dug deeper and deeper. Jellied legs reaching DECA, ran on raw determination to get home to an air conditioner and a cold drink (don't you just love luke warm electrolytes from a hot bidon?) A later Strava comparison showed almost identical heart rates and calorie burn.
Wondered if Monday evenings work out would wreck limbs for a Couldabeens circuit Tuesday, but I guess there's only one way to find out. Jase (early again) lined up with Temple, Rocket, Cougar, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev, FeltMat, BigMat, Trav, Kenworth, HBK and Vince. Luck had me miss the first shift, content to let others lead the way out Channel. Nick and Whispering Jack arrived on cue at Kensington's roundabout, the bunch enjoying a gradual build up to cruising speed. Beyond the cypress trees the two Trev's turn together tamed tempo turning at the S bend, Vince & HBK on the next shift added 5km/h to the rate silencing many. My next turn for the last of Boundary and first of Mitchell predicted a meltdown with the ticker at 173, but remembering survival on last nights 20k at 170-180 put a different slant on it (cheers Wozza!) Doc Paul was swallowed up at the chicane and hooked on for the ride. Whispering Jack poured on the profuse pace, stretching the pack, but PistolPete and I were well placed to assist a few on the limit glued on. All got a brief breather when the speed settled beyond Kialla central, HBK exited in Archer, but Vince picked it up again at Mt Nicolaci. A slow again at the highway then back on the gas for Raftery & Roubaix relegated many to sit back for survival. Not much urge left in my legs by Conrod, the PistolPete / Vince / Kenworth train looked a winner till Rocket launched, leaving them in his wake. A quick 37av lap handed out lots of well earned Strava trophies.
Numbers down at the hospital boom gates Tuesday night, all hiding in the shade from a 32 degree sun. Coggo, Tony, Scott, Simmo, Paul, Hamish and Kate, the only starters, off at 6 to negotiate the Verney Rd catastropy called a bike lane. (the 4x2 still there from three weeks ago, albeit now big kindling) Ford Rd has finally been sealed (coarse of course) but was negotiated with due care (fresh tar but no feathers). The warm southerly (@18km/h) turned SSW, the Machine joined in at the kennels, Sticks soon after. Just my luck I had Hamish to match into the headwind from the Emu to the church, (did my pennance at 36km/h), glad to have Tony with me to the toaster at a more considerate rate. A settled pace along Old Dookie and down Boundary (Simmo retiring down Channel) was commonsense given the perspiration over determination factor. River Rd was testing on the open plains with wind against us, paired with Hamish again bumped up the heart rate quickly, respite with Paul's and MachineSteve's speed dragging the pack along. Kate vanished home along Mitchell and turns seemed to roll over faster with one or two taking the back seat option. Coggo calmed the seas after Roubaix but excitement brewed with Arcadia Downs coming into view. Through the last kink Hamish, Paul and Sticks hooked in turning the bunch long and single file, it was fight for survival as many sucummed. I'd held onto 4th due mainly to many running out of steam with half a k left to go. Pleased the hr dropped from 178 to 129 by the bridge, allowed a yarn with the crew on the balmy tour home.
Plenty of punters at Kialla for Wednesday's "recovery" ride. SuperMario, AvantiTrev, FeltMat, Temple, Cougar (crowned QOM yesterday), Shorty, Trav, FujiTrev, Jase, Nick and Jarrod (Trav's mate) had lined up, an unknown rider waiting in the wings was all smiles (hoping for a tow?) Alll away at 6 bells, the mystery man OTA in the first 200 metres (was he a too early Adams hopeful?) Bit of a chase with Jase to latch onto the first leg, a push into 15km/h worth of southerly. PistolPete arrived as we neared the Alt route, effort a little easier headed east up Mitchell. Little recovery today when FeltMat and Temple took to the front for a 10/10ths assault, i'd managed to ease back a couple of k when it came to doing duty from the chicane to Boundary. Northbound had the Pistol packing some heat into the legs, Jase staying a wheel back as a hint (failed). A few spacial dilemmas again with FujiTrev, DiscoSteve flew into his driveway amid hoo roo's, the remaining dozen onto Channel for the 8k home. A not so sedate trip west in Channel Rd catching and passing the odd soloist, finally to Doyles Rd for the cautionary crossing. A cursory glance for traffic (to be sure to be sure, despite the trusted calls of all clear) failed to notice Temple just ahead on his 3rd attempt to engage a cleat, in a spilt second Cosmic's were rubbing and down I went, up close and personal with the tarmac. Instantly feeling like a suitable speedbump for the next Freightliner, was on my feet, then seat, cranking out of harms way with a bit of skin from elbow and knee left behind to mark the spot. It's been a while since the last 'off', hopefully a while before the inevitable next.
The silly season beckoned yet another early start Thursday, so out Channel Rd 5 minutes ahead of the Couldabeens for an anti-clockwise circuit with Cougs. Months of enduring my prose about winter woes is at an end folks, now to start sooking about the heat! A 20 degree start into an easterly is a quantum shift in conditions, I wonder if Spring came and went in a week? Dart hVader made a suprise attack at the heels at Sellmans to quicken the pulse moreso than the ride, a refreshing face wash from my bidon had him back off quickly. Relief to head up Boundary Rd with the breeze now at our sides, HBK, Stace and a small gathering of P&W's at the highway, a plethora of pussycats projecting south a few minutes behind, and a g'day from 51 train driver Nev (still with oxygen to spare in pursuit of the puddy's). Easier going pointed homeward in Old Dookie, a gregarious gathering of Goats greeted (noticing the 'rug man' JB as their inclusion) A short and sweet lap done was a great start to yet another busy day. A 41 degree afternoon was definitely for mad dogs and Englishmen, a relaxed evening upon the couch (but not eating Cheezels off my fingers) a positive prescription.
Not much snooze with a minimum 23 degrees overnight, awake in the early hours Friday pondering a lap. Went for a solo Cat track attack, how much deficit does this old engine incurr I wonder? Settled into a survivable mid 30's eastward on Old Dookie (though the NE wind resistance didn't make life easy), noticing a distance red light flashing. Quickly motivated to chase, I reset the redline to 175bpm for a lengthy pursuit (hoping there'd be something left for the rest of the lap). Slowly but surely the target was reached, the torpedo Trudy out on a solo mission. Ye olde self seemed to be coping with the pace so kept at it, close to the limit, reaching Boundary for some ease from the breeze (a glance back found Trudi tucked in for a tow) Able to manage high 30's bearing south it was on toward River Rd and to thread the line through stick city (plenty of timber from last nights gusts) wondering the suprises in store for those mid & tail of bunch on FreakyFriday. (Hope all kept upright) Legs were turning a bit rubbery by River's end, eased off a k or so till Mitchell, then back on it for the seemingly endless trip to Raftery. Plenty of caution near Arcadia Downs with busted branches commonplace, it's been nearly 5 years since "the stick" incident (in similar circumstances). Safely through on a less than straight trajectory (lessons from Trev?) the energy guage showed empty crossing the line in Conrod, pleased with a 35.4 but it's a 5 minute giveaway to Sprinter on the new Avanti stealth bomber.
Week 51 352 km (Nuytsland Reserve to Eucla W.A.) YTD 17,897km
"Behind every great man is a woman.......rolling her eyes!" Jim Carrey (1962- ) US actor & comedian
The bike lay abandoned and neglected till Monday (such is the Christmas rush), a relaxed ride to re-aqauint limbs and limber up for the weeks few quick laps no doubt. Cougar & I set off south on Archer into a fresh southerly (breeze bunch some distance ahead on an early start), rolling a short route via Mitchell and Raftery to clock 25 and be at the coal face for the Christmas mahem. The afternoon beckoned a toaster lap with Woz keen to run in the new Scott. Nudging 30 degrees needed some climatisation to fluid intake, the strong SSW'er mocking the effort put into Conrod straight, at least some relief was had reaching Mitchell. We'd solved the worlds problems with the wind behind us, managing a decent rate of knots and a more than aerobic heart rate to boot. Maybe to justify the madness I was miraging letterboxes, walkers and rubbish bins as distant riders ; came to zero only ratifying the insanity. The honeymoon was over at the Emu, a hard push 20k's home with the heart rate hovering between 170 and 180. Wouldn't have pushed that hard on my own, but silly me picks a young fit guy to attempt to match! (thanks Woz, twas good but it did hurt!) Begging for slow moving trucks to draft off (none came of course) the road got longer and longer as the mental shovel dug deeper and deeper. Jellied legs reaching DECA, ran on raw determination to get home to an air conditioner and a cold drink (don't you just love luke warm electrolytes from a hot bidon?) A later Strava comparison showed almost identical heart rates and calorie burn.
Wondered if Monday evenings work out would wreck limbs for a Couldabeens circuit Tuesday, but I guess there's only one way to find out. Jase (early again) lined up with Temple, Rocket, Cougar, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev, FeltMat, BigMat, Trav, Kenworth, HBK and Vince. Luck had me miss the first shift, content to let others lead the way out Channel. Nick and Whispering Jack arrived on cue at Kensington's roundabout, the bunch enjoying a gradual build up to cruising speed. Beyond the cypress trees the two Trev's turn together tamed tempo turning at the S bend, Vince & HBK on the next shift added 5km/h to the rate silencing many. My next turn for the last of Boundary and first of Mitchell predicted a meltdown with the ticker at 173, but remembering survival on last nights 20k at 170-180 put a different slant on it (cheers Wozza!) Doc Paul was swallowed up at the chicane and hooked on for the ride. Whispering Jack poured on the profuse pace, stretching the pack, but PistolPete and I were well placed to assist a few on the limit glued on. All got a brief breather when the speed settled beyond Kialla central, HBK exited in Archer, but Vince picked it up again at Mt Nicolaci. A slow again at the highway then back on the gas for Raftery & Roubaix relegated many to sit back for survival. Not much urge left in my legs by Conrod, the PistolPete / Vince / Kenworth train looked a winner till Rocket launched, leaving them in his wake. A quick 37av lap handed out lots of well earned Strava trophies.
Numbers down at the hospital boom gates Tuesday night, all hiding in the shade from a 32 degree sun. Coggo, Tony, Scott, Simmo, Paul, Hamish and Kate, the only starters, off at 6 to negotiate the Verney Rd catastropy called a bike lane. (the 4x2 still there from three weeks ago, albeit now big kindling) Ford Rd has finally been sealed (coarse of course) but was negotiated with due care (fresh tar but no feathers). The warm southerly (@18km/h) turned SSW, the Machine joined in at the kennels, Sticks soon after. Just my luck I had Hamish to match into the headwind from the Emu to the church, (did my pennance at 36km/h), glad to have Tony with me to the toaster at a more considerate rate. A settled pace along Old Dookie and down Boundary (Simmo retiring down Channel) was commonsense given the perspiration over determination factor. River Rd was testing on the open plains with wind against us, paired with Hamish again bumped up the heart rate quickly, respite with Paul's and MachineSteve's speed dragging the pack along. Kate vanished home along Mitchell and turns seemed to roll over faster with one or two taking the back seat option. Coggo calmed the seas after Roubaix but excitement brewed with Arcadia Downs coming into view. Through the last kink Hamish, Paul and Sticks hooked in turning the bunch long and single file, it was fight for survival as many sucummed. I'd held onto 4th due mainly to many running out of steam with half a k left to go. Pleased the hr dropped from 178 to 129 by the bridge, allowed a yarn with the crew on the balmy tour home.
Plenty of punters at Kialla for Wednesday's "recovery" ride. SuperMario, AvantiTrev, FeltMat, Temple, Cougar (crowned QOM yesterday), Shorty, Trav, FujiTrev, Jase, Nick and Jarrod (Trav's mate) had lined up, an unknown rider waiting in the wings was all smiles (hoping for a tow?) Alll away at 6 bells, the mystery man OTA in the first 200 metres (was he a too early Adams hopeful?) Bit of a chase with Jase to latch onto the first leg, a push into 15km/h worth of southerly. PistolPete arrived as we neared the Alt route, effort a little easier headed east up Mitchell. Little recovery today when FeltMat and Temple took to the front for a 10/10ths assault, i'd managed to ease back a couple of k when it came to doing duty from the chicane to Boundary. Northbound had the Pistol packing some heat into the legs, Jase staying a wheel back as a hint (failed). A few spacial dilemmas again with FujiTrev, DiscoSteve flew into his driveway amid hoo roo's, the remaining dozen onto Channel for the 8k home. A not so sedate trip west in Channel Rd catching and passing the odd soloist, finally to Doyles Rd for the cautionary crossing. A cursory glance for traffic (to be sure to be sure, despite the trusted calls of all clear) failed to notice Temple just ahead on his 3rd attempt to engage a cleat, in a spilt second Cosmic's were rubbing and down I went, up close and personal with the tarmac. Instantly feeling like a suitable speedbump for the next Freightliner, was on my feet, then seat, cranking out of harms way with a bit of skin from elbow and knee left behind to mark the spot. It's been a while since the last 'off', hopefully a while before the inevitable next.
The silly season beckoned yet another early start Thursday, so out Channel Rd 5 minutes ahead of the Couldabeens for an anti-clockwise circuit with Cougs. Months of enduring my prose about winter woes is at an end folks, now to start sooking about the heat! A 20 degree start into an easterly is a quantum shift in conditions, I wonder if Spring came and went in a week? Dart hVader made a suprise attack at the heels at Sellmans to quicken the pulse moreso than the ride, a refreshing face wash from my bidon had him back off quickly. Relief to head up Boundary Rd with the breeze now at our sides, HBK, Stace and a small gathering of P&W's at the highway, a plethora of pussycats projecting south a few minutes behind, and a g'day from 51 train driver Nev (still with oxygen to spare in pursuit of the puddy's). Easier going pointed homeward in Old Dookie, a gregarious gathering of Goats greeted (noticing the 'rug man' JB as their inclusion) A short and sweet lap done was a great start to yet another busy day. A 41 degree afternoon was definitely for mad dogs and Englishmen, a relaxed evening upon the couch (but not eating Cheezels off my fingers) a positive prescription.
Not much snooze with a minimum 23 degrees overnight, awake in the early hours Friday pondering a lap. Went for a solo Cat track attack, how much deficit does this old engine incurr I wonder? Settled into a survivable mid 30's eastward on Old Dookie (though the NE wind resistance didn't make life easy), noticing a distance red light flashing. Quickly motivated to chase, I reset the redline to 175bpm for a lengthy pursuit (hoping there'd be something left for the rest of the lap). Slowly but surely the target was reached, the torpedo Trudy out on a solo mission. Ye olde self seemed to be coping with the pace so kept at it, close to the limit, reaching Boundary for some ease from the breeze (a glance back found Trudi tucked in for a tow) Able to manage high 30's bearing south it was on toward River Rd and to thread the line through stick city (plenty of timber from last nights gusts) wondering the suprises in store for those mid & tail of bunch on FreakyFriday. (Hope all kept upright) Legs were turning a bit rubbery by River's end, eased off a k or so till Mitchell, then back on it for the seemingly endless trip to Raftery. Plenty of caution near Arcadia Downs with busted branches commonplace, it's been nearly 5 years since "the stick" incident (in similar circumstances). Safely through on a less than straight trajectory (lessons from Trev?) the energy guage showed empty crossing the line in Conrod, pleased with a 35.4 but it's a 5 minute giveaway to Sprinter on the new Avanti stealth bomber.
Week 51 352 km (Nuytsland Reserve to Eucla W.A.) YTD 17,897km
"Behind every great man is a woman.......rolling her eyes!" Jim Carrey (1962- ) US actor & comedian
Friday, December 13, 2013
Week 50 A foul on fowl and motorpacing on monoxide
Rather optomistically attired for summer on Saturday morning but it felt like September with just 7 degrees on the guage. Set off to the usual start, collecting Wozza on the way for his bunch debut. Only Shaz and Zan to brave the Breakaways, but Dion, Rocket, Cougar, Shorty, Nick, PistolPete, SuperMario, Pom, WhisperingJack and birthday boy RidleyTrev made up a dozen. Woz impressed many with a fine lead on leg one, quickly settling into the peleton protocols. The habitual dose of sarcasm from HBK reached new depths, news and views from others on the wind free run to Boundary. A bunch was eastbound in Old Dookie (a moment of right of way with the Breakaways), but we made no gain on them on the run to the toaster. At the rail line we had inducted Nath and Smuggler aboard, (aforementioned group headed toward the quarry) no discernable heat from the sun had my thoughts turned to coffee and toast already. Cats were unsighted today, reaching Ford Rd we'd discovered a reason, road (eastbound) closed. More resealing will have us amongst stones again next week I guess. The speed infringement blame game was tossed between WhisperingJack, HBK and PistolPete headed to Wanganui, none prepared to own up, RidleyTrev seemed to be little troubled by it. Unabaited pace to Rudd Rd and most of the Boulevard, a Smuggler and Nick exit for work, but all retired to the Lemontree for birthday cake and caffine with cheers for Trev. Enthused discourse on motel bookings, BonJovi and Tuesdays hitters was interrupted by a very short skirt and departures of 51 & Goats/Gazelles/Muppets
Intercepted Temple on a warm up to a Harvey Norman assembly at 7 on Sunday, old faithful Ridley letting him down (literally) with a seatpost malfunction. Minded the start line while he returned home to change steeds, HBK and FeltMat arrivng in the meantime. A few routes chewed over, the anti-clockwise toaster won the vote. With Temple aboard it was southward in Conrod, a rapid warm up beside HBK for a long (6.5 k) first leg. Pointed into Mitchell, a brewing northeaster was as subtle as Mathos' Cippolini, temperature building too from 13 to 19. Temple and FeltMat provided a much welcomed draft but all too soon it was duty time at the front again, +35bpm worth. Quite pleased to see Boundary Rd's tarmac layed out northward, the wind now at 2 o'clock more managable. FeltMat drove well from River Rd to the pub, the course now trimmed of toaster and Emu, straight up to Lemnos-Cosgrove won the poll. A little tree shelter leading up to New Dookie Rd then Christmas arrived turning west. All was well with the world with the wind assiting passage home but a diversion needed with Ford Rd closed (from yesterday's road works). Veered left down to New Dookie Rd then westward home, HBK lighting up the pace touching the 50's, a great yarn over Butterfactory coffee capped off the ride. A great day for Weapon (11.48.28) and Tommygun (10.47.20) at the Busselton Ironman, HurtLocker scooped the Shepp Crit B grade with Bart 1st and the Fox 3rd, Anna Meares clocked a 54.8 average on a 500TT and Francois Peruis nailed a kilometer in 56.3 secs at the world track championships. I feel quite inadequate now!
The need for an early start Tuesday needed a shorter lap, Cougar a willing participant to head out on Channel a three minutes before the Couldabeens and take the Boundary-Old Dookie option home. A west north wester set the wheels humming, so pushed east well enough to keep the Couldabeens behind . Bearing north, it was Graeme's greeting from amongst the Cats, Nev driving the 51 train in pursuit, and a bold bushy bearded bloke busting a boiler in Boundary (aka Ayto) with a P&W trio. Facing the headwind for Old Dookie Rd, LegalDave offered encouragement (from within a gaggle of Goats) so it was heads down to drive into the breeze for 7k home.
A slightly smaller gathering than normal at the hospital on Tuesday evening, BassoDave, Coggo, GT.Craig, Paul, Sticks, Tony, Clive, Hamish and Scott making the most of a magic 21 degrees, just the westerly (24-30km/h) to enjoy out and torment back. Roadworks continue in Ford Rd, a km stretch of rolled dirt to negotiate beyond the rail line. Found Kev loitering near the main channel, Sticks, Hamish and Paul ramping up the pace into the fifties cracking the pack. The three guns slowly crept into the distance but the eight remaining teamed up to share the load, a push to the toaster and a slog to Boundary Rd. Easier southbound toward River Rd (some shelter from the trees) an ambling 'world champion' was caught easily as we approached the Pub. Kev and GT.Craig drove well into the head wind on River (the 'champion' quickly diving for cover instead of a go at the business end) the group finding Andy near Laws Drive on a bike powered by 2 stroke. "Champion" quickly jumped on to be motorpaced on monoxide, but the bunch soon gathered them up in Mitchell. Raftery Rd was relatively free of gasping, heart attacks and shattered hopes, a steady build up of speed in co-operative company was rare but enjoyable. Rotations went my way to have Basso Dave and GT.Craig into the mid 40's ahead of me with 200 left of Conrod. Put in a blast to the line to pinch the chocolates, pleased there's some life left in the old legs (400W) and ticker (192bpm) with a 56 at 56.
Wednesdays' Kialla start had an encouraging turn-up, Shorty, Rocket, Jase (bling bestowed for birthday, aboard a flash new Avanti Corsa DR), Nick, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev (thought he'd sought Muppet assylum?) DiscoSteve (back from shoulder reconditioning) Wazza (on bunch ride #2), Cougar, FeltMat and PistolPete (almost north to the start line before his southward u turn) as 6 o'clock chimed. A pleasant roll down Archer with 10 degrees most acceptable, a light WNW to help us along Mitchell (aiding Nick's jellied legs from yesterday) Pistol Pete in a new Garneau kit was judged best dressed by couture & culture captain Cougar. FujiTrev was up to familiar manoevres with an erratic slice across Nick's wheel in Boundary Rd, only two small groups in TT format seen southward toward River Rd's race. Jase is climatising to the Corsa (and it's SRAM and Zipps) on it's second day out, a far cry from the old faithful Giant about to be divorced. Wozza has quickly embraced bunch morals and is circulating like a pro, not bad for his second dip. The turn into Channel Rd with the now westerly breeze at 15km/h didn't seem too tough, maybe hidden amongst the orchards kept us from the real task? Three red tail-lights ahead were like red flags to the bulls on the front, driving up to the kinder and collecting Breakaways Shaz, Patty & Jen to attach for a tow. Silence in abundence as oxygen was heartily consumed for 500 metres but their rubber band snapped at Prentice Rd. Well done anyway ladies. FeltMat peeled off after the school, the remainder saw out the finish, all minus inspiration for a Bonanza blast with the wind hampering progress.
Thursday was yet another September day in December, cold to the point of wishing the 3/4 knicks were chosen (ancient knees protesting). Plenty of tough Couldabeens at the shop though, Rocket, Jase (still wearing the Avanti grin) Shorty, Cougar, PistolPete, Trav,Temple, HBK, AvantiTrev and FujiTrev. Nick and WhisperingJack had completed an earlier 25k and u-turned at Kensington to make up a bakers dozen. Nicely warmed up (instead of toasted) on the first leg with Jase's consideration, a precursor to the wattage of Rocket & PistolPete paired for leg 3. Several WTF moments half way out Channel Rd with fog rising from the channels, check your calandars folks, it is almost half way through December. Due consideration was held for the rubber-band effect out of corners and intersections, Nick showing a little wear and tear of extra k's when southbound. Paired again with Jase on the last 2k of Boundary when a quadrella of guinea fowl slowly ambled into the middle of the road throwing mahem into the bunch. All emerged upright and unmarked (bikes and birds) but heart rates stayed high a bit longer. The Mitchell Rd scenery shot past quickly, soon on the brakes for Central Kialla, then on the gas till the highway (HBK exit stage right) The kettle boiled slowly in Raftery till full steam was reached in Conrod, a few hanging on by the fingertips at the back, Rocket signing the scorching sprint with a #1.
A work workout prompted a night off the Library lark, (Rocket pipped all) topping off the week with a quiet observation lap of the boys blistering Boundary. I reckon 30+ in the Supercats, a small pack of AristoCats with Doc at the wheel 5 minutes behind. Choppy's cheerful chime from the P&W's and a (Goat?) trio in Old Dookie. A hint of south westerly put Cougars' head down and the speed up, quickly back into town where it felt more like summer for TGIF.
Week 50: 337 km ( Lake Reeve to Nuytsland Reserve W.A.) YTD 17,545 km
"Do not take life too seriously, you will never get out of it alive" Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) US writer & philosopher
Intercepted Temple on a warm up to a Harvey Norman assembly at 7 on Sunday, old faithful Ridley letting him down (literally) with a seatpost malfunction. Minded the start line while he returned home to change steeds, HBK and FeltMat arrivng in the meantime. A few routes chewed over, the anti-clockwise toaster won the vote. With Temple aboard it was southward in Conrod, a rapid warm up beside HBK for a long (6.5 k) first leg. Pointed into Mitchell, a brewing northeaster was as subtle as Mathos' Cippolini, temperature building too from 13 to 19. Temple and FeltMat provided a much welcomed draft but all too soon it was duty time at the front again, +35bpm worth. Quite pleased to see Boundary Rd's tarmac layed out northward, the wind now at 2 o'clock more managable. FeltMat drove well from River Rd to the pub, the course now trimmed of toaster and Emu, straight up to Lemnos-Cosgrove won the poll. A little tree shelter leading up to New Dookie Rd then Christmas arrived turning west. All was well with the world with the wind assiting passage home but a diversion needed with Ford Rd closed (from yesterday's road works). Veered left down to New Dookie Rd then westward home, HBK lighting up the pace touching the 50's, a great yarn over Butterfactory coffee capped off the ride. A great day for Weapon (11.48.28) and Tommygun (10.47.20) at the Busselton Ironman, HurtLocker scooped the Shepp Crit B grade with Bart 1st and the Fox 3rd, Anna Meares clocked a 54.8 average on a 500TT and Francois Peruis nailed a kilometer in 56.3 secs at the world track championships. I feel quite inadequate now!
The need for an early start Tuesday needed a shorter lap, Cougar a willing participant to head out on Channel a three minutes before the Couldabeens and take the Boundary-Old Dookie option home. A west north wester set the wheels humming, so pushed east well enough to keep the Couldabeens behind . Bearing north, it was Graeme's greeting from amongst the Cats, Nev driving the 51 train in pursuit, and a bold bushy bearded bloke busting a boiler in Boundary (aka Ayto) with a P&W trio. Facing the headwind for Old Dookie Rd, LegalDave offered encouragement (from within a gaggle of Goats) so it was heads down to drive into the breeze for 7k home.
A slightly smaller gathering than normal at the hospital on Tuesday evening, BassoDave, Coggo, GT.Craig, Paul, Sticks, Tony, Clive, Hamish and Scott making the most of a magic 21 degrees, just the westerly (24-30km/h) to enjoy out and torment back. Roadworks continue in Ford Rd, a km stretch of rolled dirt to negotiate beyond the rail line. Found Kev loitering near the main channel, Sticks, Hamish and Paul ramping up the pace into the fifties cracking the pack. The three guns slowly crept into the distance but the eight remaining teamed up to share the load, a push to the toaster and a slog to Boundary Rd. Easier southbound toward River Rd (some shelter from the trees) an ambling 'world champion' was caught easily as we approached the Pub. Kev and GT.Craig drove well into the head wind on River (the 'champion' quickly diving for cover instead of a go at the business end) the group finding Andy near Laws Drive on a bike powered by 2 stroke. "Champion" quickly jumped on to be motorpaced on monoxide, but the bunch soon gathered them up in Mitchell. Raftery Rd was relatively free of gasping, heart attacks and shattered hopes, a steady build up of speed in co-operative company was rare but enjoyable. Rotations went my way to have Basso Dave and GT.Craig into the mid 40's ahead of me with 200 left of Conrod. Put in a blast to the line to pinch the chocolates, pleased there's some life left in the old legs (400W) and ticker (192bpm) with a 56 at 56.
Wednesdays' Kialla start had an encouraging turn-up, Shorty, Rocket, Jase (bling bestowed for birthday, aboard a flash new Avanti Corsa DR), Nick, AvantiTrev, FujiTrev (thought he'd sought Muppet assylum?) DiscoSteve (back from shoulder reconditioning) Wazza (on bunch ride #2), Cougar, FeltMat and PistolPete (almost north to the start line before his southward u turn) as 6 o'clock chimed. A pleasant roll down Archer with 10 degrees most acceptable, a light WNW to help us along Mitchell (aiding Nick's jellied legs from yesterday) Pistol Pete in a new Garneau kit was judged best dressed by couture & culture captain Cougar. FujiTrev was up to familiar manoevres with an erratic slice across Nick's wheel in Boundary Rd, only two small groups in TT format seen southward toward River Rd's race. Jase is climatising to the Corsa (and it's SRAM and Zipps) on it's second day out, a far cry from the old faithful Giant about to be divorced. Wozza has quickly embraced bunch morals and is circulating like a pro, not bad for his second dip. The turn into Channel Rd with the now westerly breeze at 15km/h didn't seem too tough, maybe hidden amongst the orchards kept us from the real task? Three red tail-lights ahead were like red flags to the bulls on the front, driving up to the kinder and collecting Breakaways Shaz, Patty & Jen to attach for a tow. Silence in abundence as oxygen was heartily consumed for 500 metres but their rubber band snapped at Prentice Rd. Well done anyway ladies. FeltMat peeled off after the school, the remainder saw out the finish, all minus inspiration for a Bonanza blast with the wind hampering progress.
Thursday was yet another September day in December, cold to the point of wishing the 3/4 knicks were chosen (ancient knees protesting). Plenty of tough Couldabeens at the shop though, Rocket, Jase (still wearing the Avanti grin) Shorty, Cougar, PistolPete, Trav,Temple, HBK, AvantiTrev and FujiTrev. Nick and WhisperingJack had completed an earlier 25k and u-turned at Kensington to make up a bakers dozen. Nicely warmed up (instead of toasted) on the first leg with Jase's consideration, a precursor to the wattage of Rocket & PistolPete paired for leg 3. Several WTF moments half way out Channel Rd with fog rising from the channels, check your calandars folks, it is almost half way through December. Due consideration was held for the rubber-band effect out of corners and intersections, Nick showing a little wear and tear of extra k's when southbound. Paired again with Jase on the last 2k of Boundary when a quadrella of guinea fowl slowly ambled into the middle of the road throwing mahem into the bunch. All emerged upright and unmarked (bikes and birds) but heart rates stayed high a bit longer. The Mitchell Rd scenery shot past quickly, soon on the brakes for Central Kialla, then on the gas till the highway (HBK exit stage right) The kettle boiled slowly in Raftery till full steam was reached in Conrod, a few hanging on by the fingertips at the back, Rocket signing the scorching sprint with a #1.
A work workout prompted a night off the Library lark, (Rocket pipped all) topping off the week with a quiet observation lap of the boys blistering Boundary. I reckon 30+ in the Supercats, a small pack of AristoCats with Doc at the wheel 5 minutes behind. Choppy's cheerful chime from the P&W's and a (Goat?) trio in Old Dookie. A hint of south westerly put Cougars' head down and the speed up, quickly back into town where it felt more like summer for TGIF.
Week 50: 337 km ( Lake Reeve to Nuytsland Reserve W.A.) YTD 17,545 km
"Do not take life too seriously, you will never get out of it alive" Elbert Hubbard (1856-1915) US writer & philosopher
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Week 49 : Flat tigers, 124 friends and a laborious aria.
Being kitted defiantly in summer attire had no effect on Saturdays weather, a fresh southerly held the mercury at 8 degrees. No doubt the grizzles of too hot will be upon us soon. Caught Zan (quite cloaked) on the way to a breakaway, then joined the minimalist bunch at the carpark, several missing on festive diversions. Just Supermario, Shorty, Cougar, RidleyTrev, AvantiCraig (on RidleyTrev's Avanti.....confused?), PistolPete and HBK prepared for a Sat.lap. The 5 Breakaways departed early, our 9 took to Channel Rd at 6 and I scored first shift again (at least RidleyTrev commenced on the conservative). Craig quite keen at the front in Boundary Rd, fairly focussed on his speedo rather than the bunch, way out in front earning a temporary tag of WBK (whole bike king) The fresh southerly sat us up the road for Old Dookie, all watching the limit being assisted north to the Emu. The customary long line of Gati di Micci plied west with a greeting here and there (Matho's green machine as subtle as a sledgehammer), a rare occasion to see LeighMac actually aboard and not a k behind.
Took a turn at the front in Ford but AvantiCraig's front was still a bike ahead of me. After a k of consideration i'd had enough, took his pocket and pulled him back to level up. Comfort finding Ford Rd swept of loose stone, a smooth run to Numurkah Rd, then a paced leg to Rudd Rd driven by HBK. Cruised back to town to socialise but several had pending work or family agendas to keep. Just 7 at the table joining 5 Breakaways for enlightened education on messy seperations, Garmin technicalities and big hitters, Weapon arriving as a suprise addition.
A somewhat sumptuous sleep-in till 6.30 on Sunday but the road beckoned by 7 to take on a solo circuit via the Emu, Toaster and back via Channel. A strong northeasterly made hard going of Ford & Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, concentration on anything but the rising heart rate did nothing to reduce the bpm or effort, 170 and climbing till the relief of turning southward to the toaster. Wiped off 40 bpm by the rail line, back into the land of the living for the run to Boundary Rd. A change in mood with the breeze behind, from crawling home complaining to planning an enthused crack at the Mexican Bonanza, so reserved some kick for the end of Channel. The wind had swung to NNE by the time the Kinder came into view, no chance of a breeze assistance for the target. Came across WhisperingJack and Ron beyond Doyles Rd, called a g'day then zoned in for the final burst (to bust my 36 av last Wednesday). On the gas at Kensington roundabout, 700 metres seems an eternity at full bore, wind giving me the sideways shove, trying to find a smooth line through the corrugated corner with h.r. @ 181. The jar was empty by the bus stop, finished breathless but pleased with a 45.4 average, (just under a minute for the segment), suitably chuffed at making 7th overall. A 10 minute cool down through the streets, then found Cougar to set sail on a Couldabeens lap. The wind was now angry at 32 to 48km/h, a big push back out Channel Rd if only to find some comfort for the southbound stretch of Boundary Rd. Almost at Channels' end when we came upon an oncoming & grinning Rocket (Christmas came early for the blast behind him homeward). We'd almost recovered turning from Boundary into Mitchell, but the wind was intent on driving wheels into the left tabledrain. Quite a few bikes out now pointing east, Scott, Stevo, Birchy, Vince & Jodie, all to face the hard yakka headed north. Down to the highway, teeth were gritted for the slog into Conrod, the last 800 metres exposed to a 2 o'clock headwind from hell. Thoughts of Degani's banana and walnut toast drove the legs to finish, coffee and a relaxed verbal on things bike put a great lid on 70k. Sneeked a brief peek at the 'Respect' event on the trip home, a few Goats amongst some MTB's and young guns on windtrainers.
Real summer weather Monday, already 19 degrees at 5 with just the left-overs of yesterdays ENE. Feeling a little secondhand from Sunday's longish and windy lap suited a tender toed Cougar, pairing to take on Channel, Boundary and Old Dookie as has become a regular regime. The heart rate monitor was showing high numbers for a somewhat cruisy lap, 235bpm not quite accurate me thinks. (strap or battery in doubt?) Fragments of Cats were headed south, just a face or two recognised as paths crossed. Straddles, Bomber and Vince picked out from the first three packs, Sosso amongst the P&W's. Two flat tigers decorated Boundary Road (just 500 metres apart), it's that season again. A small reward of a light tail wind for the trip home in Old Dookie inspired Cougar to hit the loud pedal for a rapid finish (certainly satisfying the timeclock at work)
It was Wozza's maiden (road bike) voyage Monday evening, grinning like a Cheshire cat turning a wheel for the first time on a spanking new Scott. Matte black and red looked pretty hot, a similarly hot 35 degrees to bed it in on the Saturday circuit (in practice for the Saturday circuit.....next Saturday). A toasty 17-26km/h NNE wind made it hard yakka till the Emu, but at least we had the reward of a tail wind home. Woz had settled into the road bike position well for his first bash, lots of k's on a flat bar has tuned the legs well to average low 30's (into that wind) Not many mad dogs or Englishmen seen, just one bike and a thirsty looking mutt. Interesting to compare h.r.'s on Strava, mine a 159 average vs Wozza's 174 (16 years my junior)
More real summer on Tuesday morning, 21 degrees with a NNE blowing up to 24k's would assist a pronto passage in Boundary and Mitchell. Some subtle deck shuffling at the car park exit (not naming Temple though) put me on Rocket's wheel to roster me for leg 2, but HBK's puncture with less than a half a k travelled mixed the order again. No RidleyTrev Roadside Assist today, Daniel left to the mercy of skill to cope, with plentiful sledging to speed the process. On the road again 5 min behind schedule (this time on Kenworth's wheel) had some urgency to Boundary Rd, thankfully a considered accelleration south kept the team glued together. Shorty, PistolPete, Nick, Cougar, FeltMat, WhisperingJack and Jase poured on the pace passing a cruising Cobbles at the Broken Bridges. Into the roaring 40's for Mitchell Rd, Nick & Jack raising the bar when they sniffed the front. Crossed Central Kialla (spying felines heading south at the Hall) but I had resolved to take the Archer option to please the work timeclock. HBK, Cougar & I sat back, that flat chat Cat pack back (on attack). We stayed off their line and exited into Archer, now facing a head wind (Couldabeens on the usual trajectory to Raftery). Pleased to clock mid 30's at Kialla with the slog back to town, but wondering if fur flew in Conrod. (long fast and ugly was the report received later)
Thought numbers would be down for Tuesdays thrash with 33 on the temperature guage, but a sizeable mob were at the hospital. Clive, BassoDave, Paul, Dion, Robbo, Rocket, RidleyTrev, Coggo, Tony, even Nick emerged from obscurity (possibly to crawl straight back?). All depated at six bells out Graham St and to negotiate the torture of Verney Rd's goat track (some call it a bike lane). Faded & non-exisistant linemarking, a 4x2 plank, the meandering direction, holes, rubbish, manhole covers, gravel and tarmac humps to murder wheels and posteriors, puts the real meaning into COGS' bike strategy. (time to put some curt counsel into our councillors?) Eastward over the rail-line Bomber, Sticks and Stan caught on (missed the start), the Rocket & Robbo combo were a zinger burger of tempo, a side order of hot and spicy NNW at 15km/h kept the momentum rapid. Nath and MachineSteve joined in further out, Bomber and Sticks cranked it up to the toaster and the speed didn't seem to alter westward despite the shift to a WNW wind. Several took a back seat to being sent to the rushin' front, my cranky heart rate monitor rushin' again into the 240's (or was I having a heart attack?) Luke climbed aboard in Old Dookie Rd, I counted 17 in the bunch as we crossed the highway, driven well to River Rd by the capable (and young) Dion, Paul & co. My next turn at the pointy end was cursed with the wind now head on, grateful Tony took mercy with a short turn before rolling over. Out of the dip it felt like the handbrake was left on, a few hundred metres later the old BM was steering like a marshmallow with a front puncture. Waved the lads around and, as expected, was left to tend to the fix solo (after encouraging RidleyTrev to carry on). About 124 friends (flies) did come to assist on the balmy roadside, so was hurriedly back riding thanks to another tube*** and CO2. Stuck the head down into the wind to tap out the remaining 11ks of the circuit, not dissapointed in the progress though legs were none too happy. Relief at reaching Conrod straight and chuffed to have salvaged a 36 average from the 38.4. the others posted
***a nice new one, thanks Jamie! (only a gentleman would replace a patched used with a new :-)
Wednesday's forecast was grim but the morning's reality didn't look too bad. Another warm start to the day (18) and a big gap in the green stuff on the radar was worth a gamble. Betrothed the chain to the 17 tooth cog for the 'spin' to Kialla (well, 78 rpm is 'spin' for me) to loosen the leg rust from last night. Only FeltMat had braved the start, a final radar check revealed trouble brewing so we set sail turning two blind eyes to the threatening dark mass in the north west sky. PistolPete was found u-turning half way along Archer so it was a tenacious trio (paired at front with a recovering reargunner behind) to rotate. PistolPete was about 4km/h faster than I'd hoped for, but copious cranial concrete was consumed to get over it and harden up. By Mitchell's end (and FeltMat's shortening turns) my legs were jellied, the head said persist but a chorus of desist was sung by rectus femoris, vastus latoralis and peroneus longus. This laborious latin aria had eventually faded in volume after a 3k turn with the pistol in Boundary, an internal second wind had arrived despite the physical head wind. We'd reeled in a guy and gal ahead, but they'd taken a monopoly on the entire lane (despite traffic oncoming) to make us thread a thin line past. Yeah, thanks. A few spits of rain arrived after the bridges then turned quickly to a light shower to dampen the road (and the mental state). Were we to become drowned rats? Toughed it out to have the rain retreat by Darth Vaders' house, optomism gladly welcomed back. Onward in Channel Rd with tempo building, tail lights ahead were slowly reeled in, the Breakaways (Amy, Zan and Patty) having a go too (just keen or crazy?) in less than ideal conditions. It was adeiu to FeltMat after the school, PistolPete and I signed off on the lap at Archer (damp cancelling any ideas of a belt at the Bonanza).
A quantum shift in climate Thursday, temperature halved to 9 and a cool south west blast nearing 30km/h had thoughts tuned to a testing time clockwise into the wind on a Couldabeens circuit. Focus shifted to an anticlockwise alternative, some may say a soft option, but better to like than loathe your hobby. Cougar was of similar mindset so we rolled out to watch a short Cat feature starring Matho (always entertaining), gentleman Graeme and a host of other stars at the Boundary entertainment centre. A quick 51 flick immediately following had a great soundtrack of carbon under duress, there was even a Goat featurette showing in Old Dookie. A large percentage of cars don't seem to have the headlight option in the (overcast) early hours, many bikes follow suit (hope they all eat their carrots) A brief baptism from the heavens settled the dust (barely enough to gloss the road) but made it home (&dried) just as the wind faded to nothing. Supersonic winds and plenty of afternoon showers canned Library bunch plans.
Too much thinkin' and not enough sleepin' Friday morning, up and away in the small hours but needed the winter kit for the measly 6 degrees. I didn't need to know the bureau's "feels like 2.7", the southwester at 15km/h was cool enough. Charted a 5.10 anti-clockwise toaster circuit, the push out Conrod (against the usual grain) spied feline Phil rolling in. (didn't feel so silly seeing another at this silly hour) Gilt edged clouds as the sun rose in River Rd was a good view, even scored a Strava bonus reaching the end. Aiming north in Boundary a slow brown fox became quick hearing the Mavic's moving, or was it the creaking fossil joints? The long precision line of Hurt Locker hurtled south, a fat pack o' Cats a few minutes behind, then 51 on the hunt soon after (one dragging the tongue at the back) I was swapping between the 17 and 15 searching for the right cadence up to the Emu, but might have to ask Santa for a 16. A push home into a now direct westerly asked for some effort, but got on top of the 15 cog in Ford Rd for a decent finish, a 1005 calorie hole to fill.
Week 49 : 434km (Jerramungup to Lake Dundas W.A.) YTD 17,208 km
"Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward" Victor Kiam (1926-2001) US entrepeneur
Took a turn at the front in Ford but AvantiCraig's front was still a bike ahead of me. After a k of consideration i'd had enough, took his pocket and pulled him back to level up. Comfort finding Ford Rd swept of loose stone, a smooth run to Numurkah Rd, then a paced leg to Rudd Rd driven by HBK. Cruised back to town to socialise but several had pending work or family agendas to keep. Just 7 at the table joining 5 Breakaways for enlightened education on messy seperations, Garmin technicalities and big hitters, Weapon arriving as a suprise addition.
A somewhat sumptuous sleep-in till 6.30 on Sunday but the road beckoned by 7 to take on a solo circuit via the Emu, Toaster and back via Channel. A strong northeasterly made hard going of Ford & Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, concentration on anything but the rising heart rate did nothing to reduce the bpm or effort, 170 and climbing till the relief of turning southward to the toaster. Wiped off 40 bpm by the rail line, back into the land of the living for the run to Boundary Rd. A change in mood with the breeze behind, from crawling home complaining to planning an enthused crack at the Mexican Bonanza, so reserved some kick for the end of Channel. The wind had swung to NNE by the time the Kinder came into view, no chance of a breeze assistance for the target. Came across WhisperingJack and Ron beyond Doyles Rd, called a g'day then zoned in for the final burst (to bust my 36 av last Wednesday). On the gas at Kensington roundabout, 700 metres seems an eternity at full bore, wind giving me the sideways shove, trying to find a smooth line through the corrugated corner with h.r. @ 181. The jar was empty by the bus stop, finished breathless but pleased with a 45.4 average, (just under a minute for the segment), suitably chuffed at making 7th overall. A 10 minute cool down through the streets, then found Cougar to set sail on a Couldabeens lap. The wind was now angry at 32 to 48km/h, a big push back out Channel Rd if only to find some comfort for the southbound stretch of Boundary Rd. Almost at Channels' end when we came upon an oncoming & grinning Rocket (Christmas came early for the blast behind him homeward). We'd almost recovered turning from Boundary into Mitchell, but the wind was intent on driving wheels into the left tabledrain. Quite a few bikes out now pointing east, Scott, Stevo, Birchy, Vince & Jodie, all to face the hard yakka headed north. Down to the highway, teeth were gritted for the slog into Conrod, the last 800 metres exposed to a 2 o'clock headwind from hell. Thoughts of Degani's banana and walnut toast drove the legs to finish, coffee and a relaxed verbal on things bike put a great lid on 70k. Sneeked a brief peek at the 'Respect' event on the trip home, a few Goats amongst some MTB's and young guns on windtrainers.
Real summer weather Monday, already 19 degrees at 5 with just the left-overs of yesterdays ENE. Feeling a little secondhand from Sunday's longish and windy lap suited a tender toed Cougar, pairing to take on Channel, Boundary and Old Dookie as has become a regular regime. The heart rate monitor was showing high numbers for a somewhat cruisy lap, 235bpm not quite accurate me thinks. (strap or battery in doubt?) Fragments of Cats were headed south, just a face or two recognised as paths crossed. Straddles, Bomber and Vince picked out from the first three packs, Sosso amongst the P&W's. Two flat tigers decorated Boundary Road (just 500 metres apart), it's that season again. A small reward of a light tail wind for the trip home in Old Dookie inspired Cougar to hit the loud pedal for a rapid finish (certainly satisfying the timeclock at work)
It was Wozza's maiden (road bike) voyage Monday evening, grinning like a Cheshire cat turning a wheel for the first time on a spanking new Scott. Matte black and red looked pretty hot, a similarly hot 35 degrees to bed it in on the Saturday circuit (in practice for the Saturday circuit.....next Saturday). A toasty 17-26km/h NNE wind made it hard yakka till the Emu, but at least we had the reward of a tail wind home. Woz had settled into the road bike position well for his first bash, lots of k's on a flat bar has tuned the legs well to average low 30's (into that wind) Not many mad dogs or Englishmen seen, just one bike and a thirsty looking mutt. Interesting to compare h.r.'s on Strava, mine a 159 average vs Wozza's 174 (16 years my junior)
More real summer on Tuesday morning, 21 degrees with a NNE blowing up to 24k's would assist a pronto passage in Boundary and Mitchell. Some subtle deck shuffling at the car park exit (not naming Temple though) put me on Rocket's wheel to roster me for leg 2, but HBK's puncture with less than a half a k travelled mixed the order again. No RidleyTrev Roadside Assist today, Daniel left to the mercy of skill to cope, with plentiful sledging to speed the process. On the road again 5 min behind schedule (this time on Kenworth's wheel) had some urgency to Boundary Rd, thankfully a considered accelleration south kept the team glued together. Shorty, PistolPete, Nick, Cougar, FeltMat, WhisperingJack and Jase poured on the pace passing a cruising Cobbles at the Broken Bridges. Into the roaring 40's for Mitchell Rd, Nick & Jack raising the bar when they sniffed the front. Crossed Central Kialla (spying felines heading south at the Hall) but I had resolved to take the Archer option to please the work timeclock. HBK, Cougar & I sat back, that flat chat Cat pack back (on attack). We stayed off their line and exited into Archer, now facing a head wind (Couldabeens on the usual trajectory to Raftery). Pleased to clock mid 30's at Kialla with the slog back to town, but wondering if fur flew in Conrod. (long fast and ugly was the report received later)
Thought numbers would be down for Tuesdays thrash with 33 on the temperature guage, but a sizeable mob were at the hospital. Clive, BassoDave, Paul, Dion, Robbo, Rocket, RidleyTrev, Coggo, Tony, even Nick emerged from obscurity (possibly to crawl straight back?). All depated at six bells out Graham St and to negotiate the torture of Verney Rd's goat track (some call it a bike lane). Faded & non-exisistant linemarking, a 4x2 plank, the meandering direction, holes, rubbish, manhole covers, gravel and tarmac humps to murder wheels and posteriors, puts the real meaning into COGS' bike strategy. (time to put some curt counsel into our councillors?) Eastward over the rail-line Bomber, Sticks and Stan caught on (missed the start), the Rocket & Robbo combo were a zinger burger of tempo, a side order of hot and spicy NNW at 15km/h kept the momentum rapid. Nath and MachineSteve joined in further out, Bomber and Sticks cranked it up to the toaster and the speed didn't seem to alter westward despite the shift to a WNW wind. Several took a back seat to being sent to the rushin' front, my cranky heart rate monitor rushin' again into the 240's (or was I having a heart attack?) Luke climbed aboard in Old Dookie Rd, I counted 17 in the bunch as we crossed the highway, driven well to River Rd by the capable (and young) Dion, Paul & co. My next turn at the pointy end was cursed with the wind now head on, grateful Tony took mercy with a short turn before rolling over. Out of the dip it felt like the handbrake was left on, a few hundred metres later the old BM was steering like a marshmallow with a front puncture. Waved the lads around and, as expected, was left to tend to the fix solo (after encouraging RidleyTrev to carry on). About 124 friends (flies) did come to assist on the balmy roadside, so was hurriedly back riding thanks to another tube*** and CO2. Stuck the head down into the wind to tap out the remaining 11ks of the circuit, not dissapointed in the progress though legs were none too happy. Relief at reaching Conrod straight and chuffed to have salvaged a 36 average from the 38.4. the others posted
***a nice new one, thanks Jamie! (only a gentleman would replace a patched used with a new :-)
Wednesday's forecast was grim but the morning's reality didn't look too bad. Another warm start to the day (18) and a big gap in the green stuff on the radar was worth a gamble. Betrothed the chain to the 17 tooth cog for the 'spin' to Kialla (well, 78 rpm is 'spin' for me) to loosen the leg rust from last night. Only FeltMat had braved the start, a final radar check revealed trouble brewing so we set sail turning two blind eyes to the threatening dark mass in the north west sky. PistolPete was found u-turning half way along Archer so it was a tenacious trio (paired at front with a recovering reargunner behind) to rotate. PistolPete was about 4km/h faster than I'd hoped for, but copious cranial concrete was consumed to get over it and harden up. By Mitchell's end (and FeltMat's shortening turns) my legs were jellied, the head said persist but a chorus of desist was sung by rectus femoris, vastus latoralis and peroneus longus. This laborious latin aria had eventually faded in volume after a 3k turn with the pistol in Boundary, an internal second wind had arrived despite the physical head wind. We'd reeled in a guy and gal ahead, but they'd taken a monopoly on the entire lane (despite traffic oncoming) to make us thread a thin line past. Yeah, thanks. A few spits of rain arrived after the bridges then turned quickly to a light shower to dampen the road (and the mental state). Were we to become drowned rats? Toughed it out to have the rain retreat by Darth Vaders' house, optomism gladly welcomed back. Onward in Channel Rd with tempo building, tail lights ahead were slowly reeled in, the Breakaways (Amy, Zan and Patty) having a go too (just keen or crazy?) in less than ideal conditions. It was adeiu to FeltMat after the school, PistolPete and I signed off on the lap at Archer (damp cancelling any ideas of a belt at the Bonanza).
A quantum shift in climate Thursday, temperature halved to 9 and a cool south west blast nearing 30km/h had thoughts tuned to a testing time clockwise into the wind on a Couldabeens circuit. Focus shifted to an anticlockwise alternative, some may say a soft option, but better to like than loathe your hobby. Cougar was of similar mindset so we rolled out to watch a short Cat feature starring Matho (always entertaining), gentleman Graeme and a host of other stars at the Boundary entertainment centre. A quick 51 flick immediately following had a great soundtrack of carbon under duress, there was even a Goat featurette showing in Old Dookie. A large percentage of cars don't seem to have the headlight option in the (overcast) early hours, many bikes follow suit (hope they all eat their carrots) A brief baptism from the heavens settled the dust (barely enough to gloss the road) but made it home (&dried) just as the wind faded to nothing. Supersonic winds and plenty of afternoon showers canned Library bunch plans.
Too much thinkin' and not enough sleepin' Friday morning, up and away in the small hours but needed the winter kit for the measly 6 degrees. I didn't need to know the bureau's "feels like 2.7", the southwester at 15km/h was cool enough. Charted a 5.10 anti-clockwise toaster circuit, the push out Conrod (against the usual grain) spied feline Phil rolling in. (didn't feel so silly seeing another at this silly hour) Gilt edged clouds as the sun rose in River Rd was a good view, even scored a Strava bonus reaching the end. Aiming north in Boundary a slow brown fox became quick hearing the Mavic's moving, or was it the creaking fossil joints? The long precision line of Hurt Locker hurtled south, a fat pack o' Cats a few minutes behind, then 51 on the hunt soon after (one dragging the tongue at the back) I was swapping between the 17 and 15 searching for the right cadence up to the Emu, but might have to ask Santa for a 16. A push home into a now direct westerly asked for some effort, but got on top of the 15 cog in Ford Rd for a decent finish, a 1005 calorie hole to fill.
Week 49 : 434km (Jerramungup to Lake Dundas W.A.) YTD 17,208 km
"Even if you fall on your face, you're still moving forward" Victor Kiam (1926-2001) US entrepeneur
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