Twisted the structure of the average Saturday (but in doing so missed the 58th comeback of Whispering Jack on the usual Saturday lap) entering the Sam Miranda Grand Fondo, a 102k lap around the King Valley scenery. Couldabeens Rocket, Shane, PistolPete, Cougar, Ro, Wozza, Temple, BigMat & AvantiTrev made up a team entry, arranged some decent weather (10-17 degrees) and convoyed to Oxley, collecting caffine rations at the Scottish restaurant on the highway. A long queue to register at the Sam Miranda winery start forced a rapid prep to kit-up and ready bikes, the team taking to the starting grid (resplendant in new kits) to be flagged away with just a minute to spare. Clear skies and an open road ahead, it was a big 7k turn for me with Rocket to get the train rolling on the Snow Road. Turned west toward Greta to face a few rolling hills, Cougars Ridley dropping a chain on the first ascent, but we rapidly rallied ranks to keep the team dream alive. It was moderate ups and downs for 30k's (Ro busting BigMat on a pinchy one to show who's boss) till the longer climbs broke the bunch into polka dotters and plodders, the agreement to reform at Whitfield for the slog home. Through Greta South and Myrrhee on the Benalla Whitfield Rd, with great views to distract the stress up hills, we crossed the Boggy Creek and up the Strade Nero, a 6.3km ascent on gravel with a 4 to 12% grade. Battling corrugations and an h.r. peaking at 185 to climb the 600 metre hill was a challenge for this flat lander, but I stuck defiantly to the 56 chainring to preserve my reputation and wind-up the scoffers. As with most challenges there comes a reward, the 8km sealed descent was enjoyed, 62km/h at times till rough patches jarred the bravery. A reunion at Whitfield to put a bit into the tank and collect the team together for the slog home (Rocket vanished into the distance on a mission), a head wind home of course, to trial tenacity. Careful not to snap the rubber band, the last 40k was plugged away keeping the turns smooth and consistent as us flat dwellers can, through King Valley, Edi, Docker and Moyhu (pleasing vistas to take thoughts off sore sit sites and legarthic limbs), inheriting several free loaders in our wake for assisted passage to Oxley (the finish line bait to tempting for Shane, breaking away in the last three k's). A good ride, a rather good feed and viewed the finish of some of the Subaru road series racing as dessert.
A trepidatory tap planned Monday morning, pondering the leg legacy of Saturdays climb. No knocking knees or limp limbs, but careful to warm up slowly and crank without calamity. Roads were suprisingly damp from an unheard overnight light shower, but 8 degrees and a 10k westerly was drying the hotmix, bike was weekend filthy anyway. Cats pulled out of the Notre Dame parking bay, I was pleased to be 500 metres behind the 8 ball with no intention to chase. Rounded the SPC roundabout and settled in for a solo, to find Fox and Meags craving a cruise. A therapuetic lap of the Old Dookie-Boundary-River-Mitchell & Raftery course with lengthy turns below warp speed was good medicine. A tail-light carrot inspired Meags to crank the full length of River Rd, catching Justin, yet another recently emerging from a winter hiatus. Form felt good enough to push the tempo in Raftery Rd. but a sprint finish was off the agenda.
Felt in good shape Tuesday for the trip south to the Couldabeens start, despite the head-on breeze, confidence rose with Mavics humming at a decent speed. Kenworth drew the grid position for a double shot Rocket/PistolPete espresso, AvantiCraig joined the ranks and I'd paired with SuperMario to witness the fitness hockey finals has brought on. Many were sharply kitted in the new Couldabeens attire, the southerly made a Boundary Rd toil for Shane, AvantiCraig, Rocket & Kenworth, I relished the tow with Nick, AvantiTrev, Trav and FeltMat. Mitchell Rd was a little easier with a cross-breeze but Pistol adding 10% to the velocity when he hits the front is an ask, particularly to get ahead to roll a turn. Nitrous needed. By Raftery Rd the enthusiasm had built to the fourties, 600 metres at the front was fraying my edges. A few quick changes of the leading role at the front out of the dipper and I had Pete to get ahead of again, the planned burst past was but a mere crawl. Quickly swamped by superior firepower in the closing 300 metres, inability and inadequateness over ruled the internal intention, throwing all efforts into neutral, gasping at 180 bpm across the line mid-field was as good as it gets.
Head down and tail up on Wednesday morning, there's nothing like running late to put some hurry-up into the legs, chasing the bunch for the lap not on my must-do list. 7k's to the start in 11 minutes was a tough warm up on this old cold engine, but I made the start just ahead of Pete, the last to grid. Nick, Shane, Rocket, Cougar, SuperMario, Shorty, WhisperingJack, FeltMat, AvantiTrev and Trav had been on schedule so we set sail south into Archer, almost light on the horizon at 6, temperature still lagging at 3 though. Shane's need for speed was hampered by a dodgy knee, he veered homeward as we turned into River Rd. (lower limbs the fashionable injury of late - Wozza, Cougar and Jase did ankles, Pete's calf, now knackered knees if you please!) Rocket & Pistol put a cork on conversation and curry into the cadence for a big share of River Rd, several bunches spearing west while we enjoyed the sunrise view. AvantiTrev soon calmed the storm to restore the tempo to tame. Whispering Jack, on comeback #58, still has June's mud on the Oppy, FeltMat in full training mode to take on a 250 Round the Bay. On the front again in Channel, PistolPete's wheel ahead was blamed on me slowing, but many of Pete's pairings suffer the same, strangely. An up-sized pot hole at the Cha Cha's end unseated Pistol's bidon, he turned to retrieve it, the bunch keen to see his sweat in the chase to rejoin. In just 2 k's he'd climbed back on board, a united bunch to roll back into town. A rare sighting of the (once thought extinct) Greendawg on the way home, back aboard two wheels after a long lay up.
Another gathering with a gaggle o' Goats on Thursday, a good field of 15 to roll out of town, Tina joining the fold in Old Dookie Rd. Rotations got underway quickly but pace built slowly, all got involved in sharing the load till the turn into Boundary Rd. Deb did the roll call, only time for four word sentences with Tum, Bickers Snr, BigPaul, Bazza, Kate, Snowman, Heady and Keith, rolling turns not suited to socialising. The cruising speed wound up steadily toward River Rd, right of way given to Blacky on his northbound mission at the intersection. It almost seems like broad daylight at 6.25 now, the lengthening day most welcome, just need to dial up the temperature. My heart rate hovered just on the aerobic limit all the way to Archer Rd. thanks to the regular roll overs, quite a contrast to other rides. It was a different story beyond the highway, lots licking lips for the thrash to taste the finish line first. Exiting Roubaix corner we'd caught Roscoe, his tail-light teasing ahead, yet another reappearing from oblivion as more daylight inspires emerging hibernators. Participants at the pointy end were rare by Arcadia Downs, there were only 4 for duty as we swung into Conrod straight. As I reached the front, all had conveniently and momentarily retired from active service, I was hung out to dry with 400 metres to go on an almost empty tank. Valve bouncing, out of urge and going blurry around the edges, I'd emptied the biscuit barrel with a 100 metres remaining, Tum got around me easily to take the honours, but the placings aren't really important in my book.
Took Friday off to repose the rhomboideus major, a pause for the peroneus longus, a holiday for the hippocampus, eased the erector spinae and to recumb the rectus femoris, embracing doonitis a rare treat but not planned to be a lifestyle.
Week 35 278km YTD 9,445 km
Word of the Week
"Hillness" (noun)
An impairment of normal physiological function, characterised by polka dotted vision.
Often aggravated by riding ascents, cols and monts
Friday, August 29, 2014
Friday, August 22, 2014
Week 34: Sharks, Goats and knuckleheads
Must be climatising to the cold / seasoned to the freezin......zero felt mild (or is it no sense, no feel?) on a silent spin to Saturdays 'social' ride, roads blissfully barren of traffic. Six were waiting at the starting grid, Shorty, Cougar, Temple, Wozza, AvantiTrev and Shane, ready for the 6 am flag, and with no show by BigMat (suprise, suprise) at 6:01, the handbrake was released, easing east on Channel Rd toward a hint of horizon sunrise. A cruisy 8k to Boundary Rd done, a distant tail-light was eventually caught at the fig farm, Nath morphing the mood from tepid to rapid. The heart rate stepped up and heads went down to the Toaster, Nath taking a double shift to the Emu. Shorty was rattling (valve stems?) and Temple was battling (ride deprived) on the west leg home, while I mused metaphors with Wozz on big sharks in little goldfish bowls. Again, my form and comfort finally came good after 28 rusty k's, think i'll need a new thermostat (or an early spring?) to get the old engine warmer faster. A bit of half wheeling, some half biking (and at one stage, looked like half kilometering) was going on in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, I stuck to my old theory that holding station will eventually make the defiant compliant. Nath and Shane kept the effort up and the chat down for Wanganui Rd, order eventually restored for the Boulevard and the b line to the cafe. Saturdays ride is always relished for that rare chance of post ride banter and breakfast, no dash to do duty at the coal face after either. Jase and PistolPete arrived in civvies on the injured list (an anchored ankle and crook calf) to compliment conversation on Grand Fondo preps and the iced week that was.
A sublime Sunday sleep-in, exorcising the ache from the achilles. The forecast for a millimetre of rain Monday had resigned the spirits to sleep in again (couldn't help a sneak peek outdoors at five, finding the odd spit from above enough to retreat back under the covers). Frustration later when real rain failed to front.
A climactic change on Tuesday, the ice took a holiday, strong winds took up residence instead, just to make sure us cyclists don't get it too easy. I was well worn with 6 k's of 26km/h head wind just getting to the start line. Good to find Nick back from semi-retirement (a lot sooner than BigMat or Whispering Jack though) and the usual battle ready troops at the car park. AvantiTrev, Rocket, Shane & I drew the short straw for the battle in Boundary Rd, suprised I managed fairly well (170bpm) for the 3k on the front, relief when Wozz rolled across in Mitchell Rd. Shane took a double shift to Archer Rd (running low on fizz in the last half k), collective sighs reaching Arcadia Downs for the tail wind home. Rocket took the eager ones into the high 40's in Conrod (Wozz with victory in the nostrils till Rocket and Kenworth quashed hopes) , I lent a wheel to the hardest workers Nick & Cougar to round up SuperMario and Avanti Trev for the finish, a collective tailwind cruise through town the icing on the cake.
It was full steam ahead Wednesday morning, delayed in the multiple layered preparation of insulation against 3 degrees had me behind schedule. Foot on the gas to Kialla seemed to incur every red light en-route, an interval training intro. Arrived with a minute to spare, Rocket, PistolPete, Shorty, Cougar, Temple, Nick and LegalDave ready to roll out. Into a light southerly toward Mitchell, PistolPete had conquered convalesence, crook calf cured, casually cranking a cracking cadence. LegalDave seems to be enjoying being RetiredDave, it's a little unsettling behind his wheel with no visible brake caliper (hidden below chainstays). Shorty and Temple tapping out a steady beat in light of heavy workloads, Nick back for more too. Cats barrelled west in River Rd (stunned to see several minus headlights), a thin blanket of fog in the fields under an orange skyline starts a day well. LegalDave and Pistol took us up Boundary Rd but Dave had only three word sentences to speak in Channel Rd. Rocket and Pete happened to syncronise their turn at the front for the Cha Cha, into the 40's snapped the rubber band for a few in the last 100 metres but a regroup after Orrvale saw a united finish.
A procession of Pussycats (and some 51ers) in the main street Thursday morning but I was heading to galivant with Goats. A good gathering at Friars got the wheels in motion at 6, rotations getting organised out of suburbia in Old Dookie Rd , Cats not far ahead on a slow roll out. Quite enjoying the track turns, a break in my regular routine ; certainly sharpens the focus and hones smoothness. Turns ticked over in Boundary like a swiss watch, obscure observations included Snowman's 17 degree toe out of the right knee, Brendans 98db casette freewheel, Tina's super-smooth roll overs, Dipper's red colour co-ordination, Hommy's Freightliner-like draft (and Tum's like a matchstick) BigPaul's 2 metre exclusion zone and Sandy's roll-call. Cats drew away beyond the Pub, a few Goats began reartirement in River Rd. Solid steady rotations covered a lot of ground to Kialla Central, an earnest ascent of Mt Nicolaci lengthened the bunch but tightened up over the highway with a considerate easing of the throttle. Engine drivers became scarce by the horse stud, 10 volunteers in Mitchell Rd were whittled down to 4 by Conrod straight. My turn the front again with 300metres to go was only good for a lead-out, Tum & Dipper (and several not seen for the last 2k's) thrashed out the line honours while I attempted to retrieve some oxygen. A knucklehead riding up the main drag minus lights and helmet amongst the traffic prompted a little homeward spleen venting.
A properly populated peleton parked at the library Thursday night, suprised to find BigMat amongst the 10 regulars. Away at 6 and northbound on the Boulevard we found another rarity riding, Simmo back on two wheels after 4 months hibernation. A little ESE to push into on our travels to the Emu, sandwiched between Luke and Travis pushed up my heart rate when it came to do my 5km duty. Lots of additions on the lap included Dion, Bomber, Robbo, Mark, Steevo, LegalSteve, Andy and Carl to a bunch now numbering 24. As the cream rose to the top the speedos rose too, all action and no talk down to the Pub with Bomber and Luke driving like demons. Finding myself being drawn back to the front line, I negotiated a switch to the left row, a courteous gap given by Specialised Tony. Many others had preminitions of pain at the pointy end and formed a sizeable single-filed tail to the dozen drivers, most of River Rd spent well into the 40's. Bomber had a final blast to the Kialla Hall before his exit, Robbo, Paul, Dion and co continuing the tradition of tempo in Mitchell Rd. Simmo retreated from a boiling baptism in Archer Rd, a poor call for traffic at the highway caused a little panic and dropped a couple, BigMat latching back on as Roubaix was rounded. I was happy to sit on the back (an increasingly popular place) as the big guns fired into Conrod , many ran out of ammo in the last few hundred metres, one dropped a chain causing some mayhem, finding myself promoted (through attrition) to 6th on the line.
A fresh Friday with just 1 degree (squashing hopes of winters end) and a quiet lap on my agenda if i'm to survive a 105k Grand Fondo Saturday. Found Meags and Fee at the roundabout (Princess having an intimate relationship with a doona?) so an ideal steady tap around well behind the efforts of SuperCats/51 on their mission. Long turns at a smooth and steady rate, heart rate unstressed in Zone 2. Couldabeens about to turn into Channel Rd and Breakaways on the bridges, an inspiring sunrise about to happen made getting out of bed worthwhile. A recouperative ride cut slightly short via Archer to satisfy the 7.30 work agenda.
Week 34 281km YTD 9,167
Word of the week
"Wheeliable" (adjective) A steady and smooth rider to draft, worthy of being depended on.
A sublime Sunday sleep-in, exorcising the ache from the achilles. The forecast for a millimetre of rain Monday had resigned the spirits to sleep in again (couldn't help a sneak peek outdoors at five, finding the odd spit from above enough to retreat back under the covers). Frustration later when real rain failed to front.
A climactic change on Tuesday, the ice took a holiday, strong winds took up residence instead, just to make sure us cyclists don't get it too easy. I was well worn with 6 k's of 26km/h head wind just getting to the start line. Good to find Nick back from semi-retirement (a lot sooner than BigMat or Whispering Jack though) and the usual battle ready troops at the car park. AvantiTrev, Rocket, Shane & I drew the short straw for the battle in Boundary Rd, suprised I managed fairly well (170bpm) for the 3k on the front, relief when Wozz rolled across in Mitchell Rd. Shane took a double shift to Archer Rd (running low on fizz in the last half k), collective sighs reaching Arcadia Downs for the tail wind home. Rocket took the eager ones into the high 40's in Conrod (Wozz with victory in the nostrils till Rocket and Kenworth quashed hopes) , I lent a wheel to the hardest workers Nick & Cougar to round up SuperMario and Avanti Trev for the finish, a collective tailwind cruise through town the icing on the cake.
It was full steam ahead Wednesday morning, delayed in the multiple layered preparation of insulation against 3 degrees had me behind schedule. Foot on the gas to Kialla seemed to incur every red light en-route, an interval training intro. Arrived with a minute to spare, Rocket, PistolPete, Shorty, Cougar, Temple, Nick and LegalDave ready to roll out. Into a light southerly toward Mitchell, PistolPete had conquered convalesence, crook calf cured, casually cranking a cracking cadence. LegalDave seems to be enjoying being RetiredDave, it's a little unsettling behind his wheel with no visible brake caliper (hidden below chainstays). Shorty and Temple tapping out a steady beat in light of heavy workloads, Nick back for more too. Cats barrelled west in River Rd (stunned to see several minus headlights), a thin blanket of fog in the fields under an orange skyline starts a day well. LegalDave and Pistol took us up Boundary Rd but Dave had only three word sentences to speak in Channel Rd. Rocket and Pete happened to syncronise their turn at the front for the Cha Cha, into the 40's snapped the rubber band for a few in the last 100 metres but a regroup after Orrvale saw a united finish.
A procession of Pussycats (and some 51ers) in the main street Thursday morning but I was heading to galivant with Goats. A good gathering at Friars got the wheels in motion at 6, rotations getting organised out of suburbia in Old Dookie Rd , Cats not far ahead on a slow roll out. Quite enjoying the track turns, a break in my regular routine ; certainly sharpens the focus and hones smoothness. Turns ticked over in Boundary like a swiss watch, obscure observations included Snowman's 17 degree toe out of the right knee, Brendans 98db casette freewheel, Tina's super-smooth roll overs, Dipper's red colour co-ordination, Hommy's Freightliner-like draft (and Tum's like a matchstick) BigPaul's 2 metre exclusion zone and Sandy's roll-call. Cats drew away beyond the Pub, a few Goats began reartirement in River Rd. Solid steady rotations covered a lot of ground to Kialla Central, an earnest ascent of Mt Nicolaci lengthened the bunch but tightened up over the highway with a considerate easing of the throttle. Engine drivers became scarce by the horse stud, 10 volunteers in Mitchell Rd were whittled down to 4 by Conrod straight. My turn the front again with 300metres to go was only good for a lead-out, Tum & Dipper (and several not seen for the last 2k's) thrashed out the line honours while I attempted to retrieve some oxygen. A knucklehead riding up the main drag minus lights and helmet amongst the traffic prompted a little homeward spleen venting.
A properly populated peleton parked at the library Thursday night, suprised to find BigMat amongst the 10 regulars. Away at 6 and northbound on the Boulevard we found another rarity riding, Simmo back on two wheels after 4 months hibernation. A little ESE to push into on our travels to the Emu, sandwiched between Luke and Travis pushed up my heart rate when it came to do my 5km duty. Lots of additions on the lap included Dion, Bomber, Robbo, Mark, Steevo, LegalSteve, Andy and Carl to a bunch now numbering 24. As the cream rose to the top the speedos rose too, all action and no talk down to the Pub with Bomber and Luke driving like demons. Finding myself being drawn back to the front line, I negotiated a switch to the left row, a courteous gap given by Specialised Tony. Many others had preminitions of pain at the pointy end and formed a sizeable single-filed tail to the dozen drivers, most of River Rd spent well into the 40's. Bomber had a final blast to the Kialla Hall before his exit, Robbo, Paul, Dion and co continuing the tradition of tempo in Mitchell Rd. Simmo retreated from a boiling baptism in Archer Rd, a poor call for traffic at the highway caused a little panic and dropped a couple, BigMat latching back on as Roubaix was rounded. I was happy to sit on the back (an increasingly popular place) as the big guns fired into Conrod , many ran out of ammo in the last few hundred metres, one dropped a chain causing some mayhem, finding myself promoted (through attrition) to 6th on the line.
A fresh Friday with just 1 degree (squashing hopes of winters end) and a quiet lap on my agenda if i'm to survive a 105k Grand Fondo Saturday. Found Meags and Fee at the roundabout (Princess having an intimate relationship with a doona?) so an ideal steady tap around well behind the efforts of SuperCats/51 on their mission. Long turns at a smooth and steady rate, heart rate unstressed in Zone 2. Couldabeens about to turn into Channel Rd and Breakaways on the bridges, an inspiring sunrise about to happen made getting out of bed worthwhile. A recouperative ride cut slightly short via Archer to satisfy the 7.30 work agenda.
Week 34 281km YTD 9,167
Word of the week
"Wheeliable" (adjective) A steady and smooth rider to draft, worthy of being depended on.
Friday, August 15, 2014
Week 33 : A bike birthday
An interstate start to Week 33, a Sunday circuit with Cobram's "Titaniums", John, Steve, Mick, Dave and Andrew, though John rates himself more of a 'plastic'. (newbies are labelled 'play doh's') Crossed the border (without a passport) taking a northern exit from Barooga toward Berrigan, no shoulder to ride on but traffic a rarity for Sunday. Hooked a right into Coldwells Rd a few k out, little formality on rotation with this lot but strong on the smooth and steady. Interesting to hear similar theories, rights and wrongs, goods and bads from an alien bunch (we are not alone) in a small bike community. Out of the blue a pinchy little rise (Spud hill) pumped up the heart rate, Andrew showing he's the polka dot master. The undulating vista of vineyards and canola beyond was pleasing, but the turn south (Back Barooga Rd) had a7k stretch of headwind just for me to test my resolve on the front. Relieved to reach the Barooga Rd, and over another little rise, a long gradual descent back to town filled in a 35k lap, company warm but the post ride coffee was tepid.
After missing the Cat express for a few weeks (deliberate, not dawdling) I finally climbed aboard at the Notre Dame station Monday morning, finding most were '51 engine drivers, Cat numbers way down from a weekend of Melbourne mischief. No show from BigMat (as true as a politicians promise) but Ronny, Bo, Tum, GentlemanGraham and 3 others set sail on the Old Dookie expressway, single file being called at Dobsons estate. BigBrad, Brett and another joined in from an earlier lap to make a dozen driving east, one delegated OTA in the first few metres of Boundary. I felt suprisingly on form taking the reigns after Bo's blast, glad the Garmin was unlit, hiding the heart stress. Big focus on the wheel ahead distracted the location, suprised to cover a lot of ground un-noticed. Graham reartired in River Rd, a yellowed supermoon lit the direction west. It was an advantage to be in BigBrad's tow but the headwind reality hurt when his elbow flicked my promotion to the pointy end. I was pondering what this Vespa was doing in a MotoGP race as Jason joined in, resigning myself to doing a last gasp before Roubaix, but was quickly sucked back into the rotation again. It was increasingly hard to latch back onto the last wheel after a turn, my swansong was out of Conrod's dipper, Brett showing superior firepower in the sprint to the line. All over but for the gasping, there were a couple of Strava PB's to take home and a SuperCat lap in the bag @ 37.5
A kilometre craving Monday arvo with forthcoming long events on the calandar, me somewhat under prepared on distance unless time is devoted to the Fizik. An anti-clockwise Toaster lap got off to a squeezy start, a keen Commodore invading a metre into the bike lane bend I was apexing was a bit invasive (a millimetre matters?) Appropriate gesticulation delivered. Less than a minute later, a vacuous Volvo crept into my path from a stop sign, duely rapping a fist on the drivers window woke the quarter wit (half wit would be exaggerating) into my right of way. Once the fury had simmered, I'd settled into a cool cadence, but fighting a 20+k SSW breeze out Raftery. Thanks be to an anti-clockwise decision, tail-winds were to come. Stuck into a steady rhythm on Mitchell Rd, the shadows drew long, an orange backlight of the setting sun warming the mood but not the skin. It was a tailwind reward headed north on Boundary Rd, Deadmau5 tapping out an i-pod metronome syncronised with the 56/15. The sun sank with the temperature (now 6), Dookie's hills just visible in the last light en route to the Toaster. Had a decent dip at the Church to Channel segment (2nd fastest) but quickly reserved the pennies to spend on the long drag home. The chilled southerly was cutting through most of the layers, extra circulation was needed to warm the old engine but muscles were voicing objections. Perseverence old boy, perseverence. Zoned out on the distance to dinner, just ground out a smooth cadence and the kilometres would look after themselves. Arrived at Rudd Rd sooner than expected, the headwind home overcome by thoughts of a hot shower & meal.
Woke to find a squishy Michelin Tuesday morning, fortuitously fixed but the flat front played on the nerves of imagined deflation for the entire lap. Not quite tropical at minus two, I queued up on cue at the Couldabeens carpark, drawing the short straw between Rocket and PistolPete (deja vu) again. Hopes of many hands making light work were frozen with only Kenworth, Shane and FeltMat added to the ride recipe. My turn at the front wasn't till leg three, but the additional leg 4 with Pete took the toll, a legacy of 100k yesterday emptying the jar. Contributions at the chilled and windy end came quickly with just 5 in the rotation, FeltMat constrained to one lap a week. (twice the effort of WhisperingJack though) Served my sentence beside Rocket from the two bridges to River Rd, the aim beside Pistol was long but the delivery a bit short, Pete gracious in donating an early draft. My turn to Mitchell's dog-leg earned a "well done" from Shane, credit created credence causing contentment, but not a lot left in my tank. Stood on the gas up Mt Nicolaci (a mediocre attempt to roll a turn after Rocket) and again at Raftery's horse stud had me running on empty. Rocket led the troops into Conrod, Pete and Kenworth in pursuit, while Shane, FeltMat and I hung on to finish, the line a very welcome sight.
New front rim tape replaced the old tatty one (irritating the puncture this morning), it had served well for 93,000k. Searchng for a steady tap on the Toaster (instead of a tortuous toasting) prompted a lap with Wozza (back on the bike after a weeks' hols), giving the hospital bunch a miss Tuesday night . Out the Boulvard in just ten degrees, and layered appropriately, a clear night promised cooler. Through the Ford/Verney roundabout 7 minutes ahead of the big bunch took some pressure off, settling into a steady tap with a light SSW over the right shoulder. Effort picked up a bit pointing south as the breeze swung to a southerly, legs the weak link tonight rather than h.r or lungs. The shelter in Old Dookie Rd didn't allow much of my reserves to renew for Boundary, young Wozza spinning at a good rate despite the week off the seat. Concensus was reached doing the full lap, glad to reach River Rd and take the breeze off the brow. I tucked into the 4 o'clock draft in Wozza's wake, bike lights just visible way behind as we crested the dip. Swapping long turns came into play, maybe both feeling we'd become carrots for the hospital hit squad looming a few k in arrears. I'd finally got into some pace in Mitchell Rd and into a positive frame sensing a tail breeze for Raftery. Speed wound up from Roubaix to Conrod, but Wozz had the wattage to drive into the 40's from the dipper, a good lap done as the mercury dropped to 6, well ahead of the crew chasing.
15km/h worth of southerly Wednesday morning put a grind on the gastrocnemius and ripped at the rectus femorus on the commute to the Couldabeens start line, thankfully Cougar, Wozza, Shorty, Rocket, Shane, FeltMat and Temple were there to share the load. Three degrees was above the AvantiTrev and Nick threshold, but doonitis had obviously overpowered their attendance. There was work to be done reaching Mitchell Rd, then smooth sailing for the remainder of the lap to enjoy. Light early on the horizon pleased all, a long Cat train slipped into the dip, tail-lights ahead of us drove our motivation. Shane stole the front for Boundary's tail-wind, at least Channel Rd was largely sheilded from the southerly for the leg home. We'd rounded up a six pack of Breakaways steadily steaming west at the cypress trees, I could swear traindriver Temple's chest measurement swelled in the process. Back to civilisation in good time, a raisin toast reward for a half week tally of 290k's.
A bike birthday Thursday, 10 years since since part number 80 91 0 139 773 came out of the box and first turned a wheel. 175,000 k's covered since, a few prangs, lots of places seen and people met. (Bit scary, 4.3 laps of the globe or 3,237 Toaster laps) To wax philisophical, the inanimate object became a lifeline to drag me through two retrenchments, a divorce and lifes little pot holes inbetween, giving a lot of enjoyment, achievement and a little fitness on the way.
Gathered with the Goats on Thursday, wheels turned at 6 but the track turns didn't till well beyond Dobsons. The sedate start suited. Heady, BigPaul, Hommy, Bickers Snr, Snowman, Tum, Kate, AvantiLeigh, AvantiAndrew, Sandy and GiantPaul settled into a steady beat beyond Central Ave making good progress to Boundary, Dr Pete, coming from the Toaster, joining in to make a bakers dozen. A little light fog to navigate as the mercury zeroed, no wind to battle but River Rd felt a whisker easier. A few had bowed out of the turns to survive in the draft, the usual considerate and respectful exits on corners and intersections kept the bunch bunched. An illumination altercation with a truck wasn't comfortable, I guess our 13 l.e.d.'s (some aimed high?) rattled the guy into a high beam payback. Exiting Roubaix, Tum put the beaters into the mix and wound up the speed to form frothy peaks with a little curdling at the rear. AvantiLeigh, Hommy and I added a little spice till we rose from the Conrod dipper, well cooked. I found a few last watts to drive to the front to give old faithful BMW a birthday present of chocolates at the finish line.
Yet another minus day to end an icy week, the Kialla congregation of Cougar, Rocket, Wozza and Shane are all that remain ranked winter warriors. (PistolPete excused with corked calf) Five Breakaways departed dangling a distant lure, a chilled Archer Rd southerly for us to drive against. A little more comfortable in Mitchell Rd (what am I saying? minus 1!), the Breakaways were rounded up in Central Kialla. On the front in River Rd beside Shane, I discovered driving duties darned difficult, da dude doubled Daniel's distance, dis dilapidated dinosaur duely debased, diametrically disposed, doing detrimental deficiency dramas, dichotomous dillemas daresay driving determination. Doing deliberately? Doubtful. A big Cat collective drove west on freaky fridge Friday as I dragged myself eastward, wondering if the mind drives the body or the body drives the mind? The chicken or the egg? Hopes on a lifted spirit finally came good in Channel Rd, lifting the limbs and lungs into improved speed and comfort. Maybe this old engine just needs better warm up time? (Warm up?......Minus one?!) Hope springs eternal, bring in Spring!
Week 33 371km YTD 8,886
Word of the Week
"Cadunce" (noun) A stupid crank speed.
After missing the Cat express for a few weeks (deliberate, not dawdling) I finally climbed aboard at the Notre Dame station Monday morning, finding most were '51 engine drivers, Cat numbers way down from a weekend of Melbourne mischief. No show from BigMat (as true as a politicians promise) but Ronny, Bo, Tum, GentlemanGraham and 3 others set sail on the Old Dookie expressway, single file being called at Dobsons estate. BigBrad, Brett and another joined in from an earlier lap to make a dozen driving east, one delegated OTA in the first few metres of Boundary. I felt suprisingly on form taking the reigns after Bo's blast, glad the Garmin was unlit, hiding the heart stress. Big focus on the wheel ahead distracted the location, suprised to cover a lot of ground un-noticed. Graham reartired in River Rd, a yellowed supermoon lit the direction west. It was an advantage to be in BigBrad's tow but the headwind reality hurt when his elbow flicked my promotion to the pointy end. I was pondering what this Vespa was doing in a MotoGP race as Jason joined in, resigning myself to doing a last gasp before Roubaix, but was quickly sucked back into the rotation again. It was increasingly hard to latch back onto the last wheel after a turn, my swansong was out of Conrod's dipper, Brett showing superior firepower in the sprint to the line. All over but for the gasping, there were a couple of Strava PB's to take home and a SuperCat lap in the bag @ 37.5
A kilometre craving Monday arvo with forthcoming long events on the calandar, me somewhat under prepared on distance unless time is devoted to the Fizik. An anti-clockwise Toaster lap got off to a squeezy start, a keen Commodore invading a metre into the bike lane bend I was apexing was a bit invasive (a millimetre matters?) Appropriate gesticulation delivered. Less than a minute later, a vacuous Volvo crept into my path from a stop sign, duely rapping a fist on the drivers window woke the quarter wit (half wit would be exaggerating) into my right of way. Once the fury had simmered, I'd settled into a cool cadence, but fighting a 20+k SSW breeze out Raftery. Thanks be to an anti-clockwise decision, tail-winds were to come. Stuck into a steady rhythm on Mitchell Rd, the shadows drew long, an orange backlight of the setting sun warming the mood but not the skin. It was a tailwind reward headed north on Boundary Rd, Deadmau5 tapping out an i-pod metronome syncronised with the 56/15. The sun sank with the temperature (now 6), Dookie's hills just visible in the last light en route to the Toaster. Had a decent dip at the Church to Channel segment (2nd fastest) but quickly reserved the pennies to spend on the long drag home. The chilled southerly was cutting through most of the layers, extra circulation was needed to warm the old engine but muscles were voicing objections. Perseverence old boy, perseverence. Zoned out on the distance to dinner, just ground out a smooth cadence and the kilometres would look after themselves. Arrived at Rudd Rd sooner than expected, the headwind home overcome by thoughts of a hot shower & meal.
Woke to find a squishy Michelin Tuesday morning, fortuitously fixed but the flat front played on the nerves of imagined deflation for the entire lap. Not quite tropical at minus two, I queued up on cue at the Couldabeens carpark, drawing the short straw between Rocket and PistolPete (deja vu) again. Hopes of many hands making light work were frozen with only Kenworth, Shane and FeltMat added to the ride recipe. My turn at the front wasn't till leg three, but the additional leg 4 with Pete took the toll, a legacy of 100k yesterday emptying the jar. Contributions at the chilled and windy end came quickly with just 5 in the rotation, FeltMat constrained to one lap a week. (twice the effort of WhisperingJack though) Served my sentence beside Rocket from the two bridges to River Rd, the aim beside Pistol was long but the delivery a bit short, Pete gracious in donating an early draft. My turn to Mitchell's dog-leg earned a "well done" from Shane, credit created credence causing contentment, but not a lot left in my tank. Stood on the gas up Mt Nicolaci (a mediocre attempt to roll a turn after Rocket) and again at Raftery's horse stud had me running on empty. Rocket led the troops into Conrod, Pete and Kenworth in pursuit, while Shane, FeltMat and I hung on to finish, the line a very welcome sight.
New front rim tape replaced the old tatty one (irritating the puncture this morning), it had served well for 93,000k. Searchng for a steady tap on the Toaster (instead of a tortuous toasting) prompted a lap with Wozza (back on the bike after a weeks' hols), giving the hospital bunch a miss Tuesday night . Out the Boulvard in just ten degrees, and layered appropriately, a clear night promised cooler. Through the Ford/Verney roundabout 7 minutes ahead of the big bunch took some pressure off, settling into a steady tap with a light SSW over the right shoulder. Effort picked up a bit pointing south as the breeze swung to a southerly, legs the weak link tonight rather than h.r or lungs. The shelter in Old Dookie Rd didn't allow much of my reserves to renew for Boundary, young Wozza spinning at a good rate despite the week off the seat. Concensus was reached doing the full lap, glad to reach River Rd and take the breeze off the brow. I tucked into the 4 o'clock draft in Wozza's wake, bike lights just visible way behind as we crested the dip. Swapping long turns came into play, maybe both feeling we'd become carrots for the hospital hit squad looming a few k in arrears. I'd finally got into some pace in Mitchell Rd and into a positive frame sensing a tail breeze for Raftery. Speed wound up from Roubaix to Conrod, but Wozz had the wattage to drive into the 40's from the dipper, a good lap done as the mercury dropped to 6, well ahead of the crew chasing.
15km/h worth of southerly Wednesday morning put a grind on the gastrocnemius and ripped at the rectus femorus on the commute to the Couldabeens start line, thankfully Cougar, Wozza, Shorty, Rocket, Shane, FeltMat and Temple were there to share the load. Three degrees was above the AvantiTrev and Nick threshold, but doonitis had obviously overpowered their attendance. There was work to be done reaching Mitchell Rd, then smooth sailing for the remainder of the lap to enjoy. Light early on the horizon pleased all, a long Cat train slipped into the dip, tail-lights ahead of us drove our motivation. Shane stole the front for Boundary's tail-wind, at least Channel Rd was largely sheilded from the southerly for the leg home. We'd rounded up a six pack of Breakaways steadily steaming west at the cypress trees, I could swear traindriver Temple's chest measurement swelled in the process. Back to civilisation in good time, a raisin toast reward for a half week tally of 290k's.
A bike birthday Thursday, 10 years since since part number 80 91 0 139 773 came out of the box and first turned a wheel. 175,000 k's covered since, a few prangs, lots of places seen and people met. (Bit scary, 4.3 laps of the globe or 3,237 Toaster laps) To wax philisophical, the inanimate object became a lifeline to drag me through two retrenchments, a divorce and lifes little pot holes inbetween, giving a lot of enjoyment, achievement and a little fitness on the way.
Gathered with the Goats on Thursday, wheels turned at 6 but the track turns didn't till well beyond Dobsons. The sedate start suited. Heady, BigPaul, Hommy, Bickers Snr, Snowman, Tum, Kate, AvantiLeigh, AvantiAndrew, Sandy and GiantPaul settled into a steady beat beyond Central Ave making good progress to Boundary, Dr Pete, coming from the Toaster, joining in to make a bakers dozen. A little light fog to navigate as the mercury zeroed, no wind to battle but River Rd felt a whisker easier. A few had bowed out of the turns to survive in the draft, the usual considerate and respectful exits on corners and intersections kept the bunch bunched. An illumination altercation with a truck wasn't comfortable, I guess our 13 l.e.d.'s (some aimed high?) rattled the guy into a high beam payback. Exiting Roubaix, Tum put the beaters into the mix and wound up the speed to form frothy peaks with a little curdling at the rear. AvantiLeigh, Hommy and I added a little spice till we rose from the Conrod dipper, well cooked. I found a few last watts to drive to the front to give old faithful BMW a birthday present of chocolates at the finish line.
Yet another minus day to end an icy week, the Kialla congregation of Cougar, Rocket, Wozza and Shane are all that remain ranked winter warriors. (PistolPete excused with corked calf) Five Breakaways departed dangling a distant lure, a chilled Archer Rd southerly for us to drive against. A little more comfortable in Mitchell Rd (what am I saying? minus 1!), the Breakaways were rounded up in Central Kialla. On the front in River Rd beside Shane, I discovered driving duties darned difficult, da dude doubled Daniel's distance, dis dilapidated dinosaur duely debased, diametrically disposed, doing detrimental deficiency dramas, dichotomous dillemas daresay driving determination. Doing deliberately? Doubtful. A big Cat collective drove west on freaky fridge Friday as I dragged myself eastward, wondering if the mind drives the body or the body drives the mind? The chicken or the egg? Hopes on a lifted spirit finally came good in Channel Rd, lifting the limbs and lungs into improved speed and comfort. Maybe this old engine just needs better warm up time? (Warm up?......Minus one?!) Hope springs eternal, bring in Spring!
Week 33 371km YTD 8,886
Word of the Week
"Cadunce" (noun) A stupid crank speed.
Friday, August 8, 2014
Week 32 : The spice of life
Temperature, or the lack of it, took the breath away Saturday morning, -0.8 caused an ice cream headache (without the cream) on the six k warm (?) up to the start line. When the going gets tough Cougar, Rocket, Wozza, PistolPete, Shane & Trav get going, but a sedate start to thaw frozen limbs, handlebars gripped tight as muscles contract in the conditions. At the end of Channel Rd it was duck the ducks, a pair in the middle of the road daydreaming suddenly startled and launched just over the helmet at the last second (but I wasn't about to start eating crutches). A fair amount of numbness helped leg rotation but the head wasn't too keen in the cold. Still, better than a getwaway to Gaza. Shane was in for long sessions at the front (a Makin mission?), I was keen to tuck in behind after a 3 k turn at the coolest end for the leg to the Toaster. But soft, what light through yonder horizon breaks? It is the east and it is the sun, arise fair sun and kill the envious cold, we are already sick and tired with chills. (Apologies to the bard of Avon) Trav tenaciously transitioned the temperature from Bali's 27 to the (now) minus 1.6, certainly excused for shortening his turns a little. I'd mentally braced for a headwind home but there was little to fight in Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd. Rocket comically translated Hobnkombahk on Shane's Katusha knicks to mean "kiss my arse", maybe my Heinz Beanz jersey meant "fear my flatulence"? The 14k iced haul to Rudd Rd was filled with thoughts of hot coffee and breakfast, only three bikes westward with Cats missing in action. Shane wound up the wick nearing DECA, advanced a wheel and, dancing up Mt Wanganui, had drawn the bunch long. An ease of throttle re-united the seven for a congregated cruise through town, Jase (with a crook "crankle") was warming the seats on arrival at the feed station and AvantiTrev, finally out of a warm bed, joined in yarns on Bali, Propels and stolen bikes. Temperatures even delayed the Goat's getaway.
Pinned down by the mental weight and warmth of the doona Monday, held hot and hostage, I eventually untensioned the ties of torpidity and loosened the lassitude to put in a few k's, carefully avoiding glancing at the temperature. This old engine was running on three cylinders in Old Dookie Rd, convinced there was a handbrake of breeze holding the speed low. Not a bike to be seen (sensible riders in bed?) but already a little glow of light from the Dookie hills dawn. Pointed into Boundary Rd squashed the myth of wind, just old legs to blame for a slow speed from a fast heart rate. Gave myself the benefit of a backoff, settling to tap out a lap without heroics. By the Channel Rd cypress trees the fourth cylinder was now firing, an improvement of effort, speed and positive thoughts multiplying the mood. A lighter sky lit up the white crusty grass at the roadside, but was saving the temperature data till I was home. Channel Rd's 8k passed fast, soon back to town to find mist rising from the gutters and all parked cars with icing. Reading minus 3 was only bearable when indoors.
It was sparkly grass and crusty cars Tuesday too, bracing breaths cranking the bike up to speed. The first k is the hardest, gets a little easier thereafter as circulation overcomes climate. Icelandic temperatures kept the Couldabeens numbers down, even Kenworth had a subdued arrival (not airbourne) to join Wozza, Rocket, Shane, PistolPete, FeltMat and Trav at the car park. The flag dropped at 5.55 for us to face the music, turn one with Wozz then turn two with Rocket almost imploded the lungs by Orrvale Rd, the atmostphere had no effect on Pete and Rocket though. There was a slight repose in Boundary Rd till the little Kittel added 10% to the speed (and subtracted 90% of my reserves attempting to level with his wheel). FeltMat and Trav took a back seat in Mitchell Rd, turns at the Siberian front were now frosty and frequent. Quite taxed by Raftery Rd's horse stud, I 'sat on' for a few turns, but guilt and compassion overtook me seeing Rocket left out to (freeze) dry on the front for Conrod straight. My valiant attempt at the front to give him a break only excited others to take flight, soon swamped by Shane, Wozz, Pete, Rocket and Kenworth. Shane's fuse burnt quickly, Rocket bolted into the distance, I was just pleased to cross the line and ease the exertion at minus 3.5.
Another pair of Michelins fitted, just 5,000k from the last set, rather hacked from winters wear. Lots of damp riding lets the flint stick and hack the tyres, Pro4's enduring the shower scene from Psycho.
Made a pilgrimage to the Goats Thursday morning, Coggo's cursed car/cycle collision caused cracks (ribs), certainly can't crush Coggo's cast-iron constitution though. (Hopes for a speedy recovery young fella.) Principal Skinner, Hommy, Sandy, Brendan, Snowman, Heady, Dipper, AvantiLeigh, Bickers and Big Paul set the wheels rolling through town and the rotations happening sensibly beyond Doyles Rd. I'm a bit green on track turns, an education in concentration and smoothness, but there's plenty of scholars in this pack. There was the odd retirement from the group of 14 to the rear stalls in Boundary Rd, 51's flashing l.e.d.'s lighting the route ahead. A dozen did the driving down to River Rd, reassuring to have the rear gunners do the roll call. Ten were left to put in the effort at the front for the slog to Kialla Central, reducing to 8 for Mitchell Rd. A blast up Mt.Nicolaci toasted a few, workers now whittled down to 5 by Arcadia Downs. Several made a comeback from the rear in Conrod straight, the Principal was quickly expelled (an A for accelleration but an E for endurance), Dipper and AvantiLeigh cranking up the cadence at the front. The bunch went rapidly single file at the dip, so I wound up the 13 sprocket to get to the front, lending a tow to the two young fellas for 200 metres until this old engine valve bounced. The young blokes pounced, I was happy to roll in 3rd. Interesting to note the higher sustained heart-rate from track turns (34 goes at the front in 32k's for the number nerds), no rest and recovery with the usual long turn rides. Variety, the spice of life.
A well populated bunch formed at the library Thursday night, 12 degrees and a very light WNW breeze an inviting formula. Axel, Juzza, SpecialisedTony, Robbo, Nath, Luke, Deano, Kev, Travis and young Liam rolled away at 6 to do battle with Boulevard commuters on the way home. A desperado driven ML Benz just had to squeeze past as we entered the roundabout, then turned off at the next street (all to save 3 seconds travel time). Swapped a little deep philosophy with Kev and a few chuckles with Robbo as we made our way along Wanganui Rd, picking up Paul (already tapping out 35k) at DECA. Trent, MachineSteve, Steevo and others swelled the population to 17 by the kennels, Nath was keen to spice the speed to the Toaster while I sat behind Juzza-jack-in-the-box. The Old Dookie Rd euphoria was being towed by 16 (Trent & MachineSteve at the helm) at 40 clicks, 125bpm at 64rpm. If only it was this easy at the front! My next turn came in River Rd, quite the contrast at 39km/h, 168bpm & 75 rpm. A contrast of ages sharing the front with young Liam, he had a 43 year advantage! A great call for a car at River Rd's end avoided a prang, suprised all managed to brake hard & halt without incident. Speed held in the high 30's for Mitchell Rd then wound up to a fast boil for Raftery, Axel, Tony & I content to witness the action from the rear seats. A flurry of legs and lights sped single file to the finish line, all I could picture was a simmered steak to fill the 1200 calorie deficit.
Should have had a big bowl of SAE 10W-50 and a cup of CRC to start Friday, quite creaky of limb and rusty of joint in the first few k's. At least 9 degrees felt balmy in comparison to Monday. Found Fox, Meags and Princess to tap out 30k's, an appetising little dessert after a week of spicy main courses, a fugue Friday rather than freaky. Kookaburras cackled the start of T.G.I.F. despite cloud dulling the dawn. River Road's long grey ribbon of tarmac begged 768 rotations of the chainring, Central Kialla was nearly gridlocked with 5 cars, Mitchell Rd not quite peak hour with 2. A cruisy lap in zone 2 was soon back to civilisation and competing with commuters to face the reality of work to end the week.
Week 32 272km YTD 8,515km
Word of the Week
"Reartired" (adjective) No longer active in bunch employment, a life of leisure (or hopeful of recovery) in the draft at the back of the peleton.
Pinned down by the mental weight and warmth of the doona Monday, held hot and hostage, I eventually untensioned the ties of torpidity and loosened the lassitude to put in a few k's, carefully avoiding glancing at the temperature. This old engine was running on three cylinders in Old Dookie Rd, convinced there was a handbrake of breeze holding the speed low. Not a bike to be seen (sensible riders in bed?) but already a little glow of light from the Dookie hills dawn. Pointed into Boundary Rd squashed the myth of wind, just old legs to blame for a slow speed from a fast heart rate. Gave myself the benefit of a backoff, settling to tap out a lap without heroics. By the Channel Rd cypress trees the fourth cylinder was now firing, an improvement of effort, speed and positive thoughts multiplying the mood. A lighter sky lit up the white crusty grass at the roadside, but was saving the temperature data till I was home. Channel Rd's 8k passed fast, soon back to town to find mist rising from the gutters and all parked cars with icing. Reading minus 3 was only bearable when indoors.
It was sparkly grass and crusty cars Tuesday too, bracing breaths cranking the bike up to speed. The first k is the hardest, gets a little easier thereafter as circulation overcomes climate. Icelandic temperatures kept the Couldabeens numbers down, even Kenworth had a subdued arrival (not airbourne) to join Wozza, Rocket, Shane, PistolPete, FeltMat and Trav at the car park. The flag dropped at 5.55 for us to face the music, turn one with Wozz then turn two with Rocket almost imploded the lungs by Orrvale Rd, the atmostphere had no effect on Pete and Rocket though. There was a slight repose in Boundary Rd till the little Kittel added 10% to the speed (and subtracted 90% of my reserves attempting to level with his wheel). FeltMat and Trav took a back seat in Mitchell Rd, turns at the Siberian front were now frosty and frequent. Quite taxed by Raftery Rd's horse stud, I 'sat on' for a few turns, but guilt and compassion overtook me seeing Rocket left out to (freeze) dry on the front for Conrod straight. My valiant attempt at the front to give him a break only excited others to take flight, soon swamped by Shane, Wozz, Pete, Rocket and Kenworth. Shane's fuse burnt quickly, Rocket bolted into the distance, I was just pleased to cross the line and ease the exertion at minus 3.5.
Another pair of Michelins fitted, just 5,000k from the last set, rather hacked from winters wear. Lots of damp riding lets the flint stick and hack the tyres, Pro4's enduring the shower scene from Psycho.
Made a pilgrimage to the Goats Thursday morning, Coggo's cursed car/cycle collision caused cracks (ribs), certainly can't crush Coggo's cast-iron constitution though. (Hopes for a speedy recovery young fella.) Principal Skinner, Hommy, Sandy, Brendan, Snowman, Heady, Dipper, AvantiLeigh, Bickers and Big Paul set the wheels rolling through town and the rotations happening sensibly beyond Doyles Rd. I'm a bit green on track turns, an education in concentration and smoothness, but there's plenty of scholars in this pack. There was the odd retirement from the group of 14 to the rear stalls in Boundary Rd, 51's flashing l.e.d.'s lighting the route ahead. A dozen did the driving down to River Rd, reassuring to have the rear gunners do the roll call. Ten were left to put in the effort at the front for the slog to Kialla Central, reducing to 8 for Mitchell Rd. A blast up Mt.Nicolaci toasted a few, workers now whittled down to 5 by Arcadia Downs. Several made a comeback from the rear in Conrod straight, the Principal was quickly expelled (an A for accelleration but an E for endurance), Dipper and AvantiLeigh cranking up the cadence at the front. The bunch went rapidly single file at the dip, so I wound up the 13 sprocket to get to the front, lending a tow to the two young fellas for 200 metres until this old engine valve bounced. The young blokes pounced, I was happy to roll in 3rd. Interesting to note the higher sustained heart-rate from track turns (34 goes at the front in 32k's for the number nerds), no rest and recovery with the usual long turn rides. Variety, the spice of life.
A well populated bunch formed at the library Thursday night, 12 degrees and a very light WNW breeze an inviting formula. Axel, Juzza, SpecialisedTony, Robbo, Nath, Luke, Deano, Kev, Travis and young Liam rolled away at 6 to do battle with Boulevard commuters on the way home. A desperado driven ML Benz just had to squeeze past as we entered the roundabout, then turned off at the next street (all to save 3 seconds travel time). Swapped a little deep philosophy with Kev and a few chuckles with Robbo as we made our way along Wanganui Rd, picking up Paul (already tapping out 35k) at DECA. Trent, MachineSteve, Steevo and others swelled the population to 17 by the kennels, Nath was keen to spice the speed to the Toaster while I sat behind Juzza-jack-in-the-box. The Old Dookie Rd euphoria was being towed by 16 (Trent & MachineSteve at the helm) at 40 clicks, 125bpm at 64rpm. If only it was this easy at the front! My next turn came in River Rd, quite the contrast at 39km/h, 168bpm & 75 rpm. A contrast of ages sharing the front with young Liam, he had a 43 year advantage! A great call for a car at River Rd's end avoided a prang, suprised all managed to brake hard & halt without incident. Speed held in the high 30's for Mitchell Rd then wound up to a fast boil for Raftery, Axel, Tony & I content to witness the action from the rear seats. A flurry of legs and lights sped single file to the finish line, all I could picture was a simmered steak to fill the 1200 calorie deficit.
Should have had a big bowl of SAE 10W-50 and a cup of CRC to start Friday, quite creaky of limb and rusty of joint in the first few k's. At least 9 degrees felt balmy in comparison to Monday. Found Fox, Meags and Princess to tap out 30k's, an appetising little dessert after a week of spicy main courses, a fugue Friday rather than freaky. Kookaburras cackled the start of T.G.I.F. despite cloud dulling the dawn. River Road's long grey ribbon of tarmac begged 768 rotations of the chainring, Central Kialla was nearly gridlocked with 5 cars, Mitchell Rd not quite peak hour with 2. A cruisy lap in zone 2 was soon back to civilisation and competing with commuters to face the reality of work to end the week.
Week 32 272km YTD 8,515km
Word of the Week
"Reartired" (adjective) No longer active in bunch employment, a life of leisure (or hopeful of recovery) in the draft at the back of the peleton.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Week 31 : Sagged and soggy
A Knight St deja vu Monday, Cats departing Notre Dame 500 metres ahead, but not a drop of incentive in my tank to chase. Found Fox & Meags though, a steady lap to start the week, careful not to alarm the achilles after a weekend recovery off the bike. An annoying little northeaster prompted a push on the pedals to maintain the speed, Boundary a bonus with the breeze behind. Sunrise is noticably earlier (light in the sky at the River Rd dip) perchanced passed a Pussycat pair, possibly punctured, perusing pressure, peered a particular persons' pushbike prostrate, pending prompt patching. Kialla Central's peak hour traffic (4 cars) caused a brief retinal wrestle, back onto the empty Mitchell Rd was easier on the eye. An Archer Rd homestraight beckoned to meet timeclock commitments, the joy and enthusiasm of going to work Monday quickly forgotten with the sun slowly warming a clear sky. Miss yellow Suzuki got up close and personal (P plate) in her overtaking manoevre, must be quite an effort to use the four metres of road available in the other lane. Back to town to put nose to grindstone, to earn the dough to buy more tyres and chains and tubes and glue and patches and knicks and jerseys and socks and...........
A spin on the 17 cog down to the Couldabeens start in preparation for the Tuesday morning thrash. Numbers elevated (directly proportional to the temperature?) at the car park, AvantiTrev, Jase, Cougar, Shorty, Nick, SuperMario, Temple, BigMat, FeltMat, Rocket and Shane all keen to put some distance into the morning, keen to get into the new kit too (typo permitting). Climbed aboard the cardio escalator with Jase (leg #1) and Rocket (leg #2) of Channel Rd, through the Orrvale Rd left/right, then chin on the headstem to get a draft off Rocket, the little Kittel. BigMat and Shorty scored the short tailwind leg after the Kinder, all fairly sheltered from the northerly till reaching Boundary Rd. FeltMat and Shane were easy on the accelerator to the twin bridges, the speed crept slowly upward with the cream rising to the top. It was head down and tail up for a long stint beside Jase & Rocket in Mitchell Rd, the head aimed at reaching the chicane but the legs and lungs gave up 500 metres short. (inadequacy levels lowered seeing others take shorter shifts) Another dip at the front came round quickly, Shane in for double time nearing Archer, a half bike ahead for 2000 metres may promote him to HBK's shoes? I'd turned soft at Arcadia Downs handing in my resignation from duty, but was instantly elected the tow vehicle for bunch #2 when the speed splintered the pack nearing Conrod straight. I've set the Garmin screen to display h.r. in a smaller window (difficult to read when the pace is on), takes away the mental hurdle when 182bpm is illegible. Rocket had Shane, Jase, BigMat and Shorty stretched out, others behind me were feeling the pinch too. Nice to cross the line after battling a k of headwind, slowing to join the ones who had put in more effort than I for a collective roll through town.
Forecast was a tad iffy Tuesday night, a brief mist of rain at 4 had been dried by a northwester so took a gamble on the hospital bunch. Dion, Nath, Paul, GT Craig, Clive, Harpo, Axel and Bomber rolled out Graham street at 6, a brief spit from the sky dampened hopes but spots soon stopped. Collecting LegalSteve (leTour tourist), MachineSteve and Ange en route, it was cranking into the 40's on Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, Bomber with the succession of Clive, LegalSteve and I try to match him, Dion the one to succeed. Testing times tapered turning south, a chorus of windswept wheels and sighs down to the Toaster, Bomber & Machine Steve taking the lead monopoly to Boundary Rd, wind now blowing in the 30's with a big shear atop the channel bridge. The puncture delayed Juzza, SpecialisedTony and Andy intercepted us via Old Dookie Rd, spits of rain started (more serious this time) as tempo tormented past the fig farm. The road had turned semi-gloss, speed increased again, wheels were pushed and shoved by the wind, my plans turned quickly to the option of Channel Rd. home, Axel, Andy, Harpo and Ange had similar thoughts of survival. With rain lashing and pushing into the northwester (now gusting to 56km/h) I shouldered the lead, difficult to drive at 34 with the heart rate climbing and conditions worsening. Ange then Axel shared the load, not much fun with socks slowly saturating and pelting rain blurring vision, but a combined effort got the five home upright but a touch sagged and soggy.
The damp track was drying by morning, wind had dialed down too, worth a Wednesday lap to loosen the legs. Blown down to the starting grid by the WNW breeze, PistolPete, Rocket, Wozza, Shane, FeltMat, Nick and WobblyTrev had made the pilgrimage to Kialla to squeeze in a few k 's too. An easy roll down to Mitchell and over to Central Kialla, avoiding thoughts of the task that lay ahead in Channel Rd. Nick & FeltMat drew the short straw of a windy leg to River Rd, Shane lapping up a big share of the tailwind before others shortened the roster. Nick copped another windswept leg in Boundary Rd, Shane almost earning a WBK tag. Rocket and I paired at the front for the first of the Channel Rd slogs, as much fun as a tummy full of cold dim sims (well, that much wind anyway), gusts of 37km/h quite a chore. I was delighted to relinquish the lead beyond the cypress trees, Wozza working well with wind whipping westerly, when a wintery week went without widing. PistolPete Voeckler (in new Europcar kit) paired with Nick (Terpstra) for the Cha Cha, FeltMat (Hayman), Wozza Visconti (Movistar kit), Rocket (little Kittel), Shane Jelte Slagter (most agressive rider) and TeamWobbly stamped out the 8k's home with nothing left to impress on the mexican bonanza.
Coggo did a Richard Simmons workout at Friars Thursday morning, a stretch and ab session while gritty Goats gathered. Rolled away at 6 bells, a few familiar faces (BigPaul, Snowman, Brendan, Tum, Kate, Dipper, LegalDave, Hommy, Sandy, Bickers etc) rotated as the track turns commenced, a few faces as yet unknown. Tum, in short sleeves and legs, is obviously from the land of the long white polar ice caps to survive 9 degrees) The handbrake was released turning with the Boundary Rd tail wind, wheels humming in appreciation. The rider ahead of me lubed my chain and leg via his left nostril >:-/ , and after voicing my thanks, his apologies were accepted. Hommy and Sandy took a Harpo hiatus via Channel Rd as the pack speared south. To clockwise or anti-clockwise in River Rd? that is the question (a call in favour of anti was confirmed). A few took up rearmost respiratory respite as pace placated patience, a solitary punctured pussycat was in roadside repair near the dip, seeking solidarity? Kate was still taking tenacious turns through Central Kialla, but Mt.Nicolaci expired her efforts. Considerately off the throttle through intersections and turns, the bunch solidified along Raftery, building for the Conrod blast (albeit against the 20+km/h northerly). Sitting snug at fourth wheel with 200m to go (and a well timed lead out from Tum and Dipper) handed me the win (with an investment of 190bpm and 47km/h), maybe a little rude as an invited guest, but Coggo informs me there's no friends in a sprint.
A blow dried and desolate Old Dookie Rd Friday morning, hardly heartwarming at 4 degrees. Some mercy from a brewing WNW helped the Mavic's strike a B minor out to Boundary Rd, thoughts suppressed any record breaking times, a short lap to enjoy as reward for surviving a windswept week. Passed the pub, a distant glimmer of bike lights approaching as I steered into Channel Rd, with furrowed brow and gritted molars to face the 25km/h ravages for the 8k slog home. Foolishly glancing back at the S bend I saw bikes in pursuit, funny how fast the competitive spirit is activated. 30bpm was added to the effort (with only a whisker added to speed) and by the cypress trees legs were protesting, some hope of holding a gap possible. This carrot was running low on reserves with two rabbits closing in at the school, by Kensington gardens all was lost when Europcar's Pierre Rolland and Movistar's Alejandro Valverde (cunningly disguised as mild mannered PistolPete and Wozza) caught and passed, at least their manners towed me to the finish.
Week 31 240km YTD 8,243 km
Word of the Week
"Chainnointed" (verb) To bear the greasy tatoo of a chain on a leg
A spin on the 17 cog down to the Couldabeens start in preparation for the Tuesday morning thrash. Numbers elevated (directly proportional to the temperature?) at the car park, AvantiTrev, Jase, Cougar, Shorty, Nick, SuperMario, Temple, BigMat, FeltMat, Rocket and Shane all keen to put some distance into the morning, keen to get into the new kit too (typo permitting). Climbed aboard the cardio escalator with Jase (leg #1) and Rocket (leg #2) of Channel Rd, through the Orrvale Rd left/right, then chin on the headstem to get a draft off Rocket, the little Kittel. BigMat and Shorty scored the short tailwind leg after the Kinder, all fairly sheltered from the northerly till reaching Boundary Rd. FeltMat and Shane were easy on the accelerator to the twin bridges, the speed crept slowly upward with the cream rising to the top. It was head down and tail up for a long stint beside Jase & Rocket in Mitchell Rd, the head aimed at reaching the chicane but the legs and lungs gave up 500 metres short. (inadequacy levels lowered seeing others take shorter shifts) Another dip at the front came round quickly, Shane in for double time nearing Archer, a half bike ahead for 2000 metres may promote him to HBK's shoes? I'd turned soft at Arcadia Downs handing in my resignation from duty, but was instantly elected the tow vehicle for bunch #2 when the speed splintered the pack nearing Conrod straight. I've set the Garmin screen to display h.r. in a smaller window (difficult to read when the pace is on), takes away the mental hurdle when 182bpm is illegible. Rocket had Shane, Jase, BigMat and Shorty stretched out, others behind me were feeling the pinch too. Nice to cross the line after battling a k of headwind, slowing to join the ones who had put in more effort than I for a collective roll through town.
Forecast was a tad iffy Tuesday night, a brief mist of rain at 4 had been dried by a northwester so took a gamble on the hospital bunch. Dion, Nath, Paul, GT Craig, Clive, Harpo, Axel and Bomber rolled out Graham street at 6, a brief spit from the sky dampened hopes but spots soon stopped. Collecting LegalSteve (leTour tourist), MachineSteve and Ange en route, it was cranking into the 40's on Lemnos-Cosgrove Rd, Bomber with the succession of Clive, LegalSteve and I try to match him, Dion the one to succeed. Testing times tapered turning south, a chorus of windswept wheels and sighs down to the Toaster, Bomber & Machine Steve taking the lead monopoly to Boundary Rd, wind now blowing in the 30's with a big shear atop the channel bridge. The puncture delayed Juzza, SpecialisedTony and Andy intercepted us via Old Dookie Rd, spits of rain started (more serious this time) as tempo tormented past the fig farm. The road had turned semi-gloss, speed increased again, wheels were pushed and shoved by the wind, my plans turned quickly to the option of Channel Rd. home, Axel, Andy, Harpo and Ange had similar thoughts of survival. With rain lashing and pushing into the northwester (now gusting to 56km/h) I shouldered the lead, difficult to drive at 34 with the heart rate climbing and conditions worsening. Ange then Axel shared the load, not much fun with socks slowly saturating and pelting rain blurring vision, but a combined effort got the five home upright but a touch sagged and soggy.
The damp track was drying by morning, wind had dialed down too, worth a Wednesday lap to loosen the legs. Blown down to the starting grid by the WNW breeze, PistolPete, Rocket, Wozza, Shane, FeltMat, Nick and WobblyTrev had made the pilgrimage to Kialla to squeeze in a few k 's too. An easy roll down to Mitchell and over to Central Kialla, avoiding thoughts of the task that lay ahead in Channel Rd. Nick & FeltMat drew the short straw of a windy leg to River Rd, Shane lapping up a big share of the tailwind before others shortened the roster. Nick copped another windswept leg in Boundary Rd, Shane almost earning a WBK tag. Rocket and I paired at the front for the first of the Channel Rd slogs, as much fun as a tummy full of cold dim sims (well, that much wind anyway), gusts of 37km/h quite a chore. I was delighted to relinquish the lead beyond the cypress trees, Wozza working well with wind whipping westerly, when a wintery week went without widing. PistolPete Voeckler (in new Europcar kit) paired with Nick (Terpstra) for the Cha Cha, FeltMat (Hayman), Wozza Visconti (Movistar kit), Rocket (little Kittel), Shane Jelte Slagter (most agressive rider) and TeamWobbly stamped out the 8k's home with nothing left to impress on the mexican bonanza.
Coggo did a Richard Simmons workout at Friars Thursday morning, a stretch and ab session while gritty Goats gathered. Rolled away at 6 bells, a few familiar faces (BigPaul, Snowman, Brendan, Tum, Kate, Dipper, LegalDave, Hommy, Sandy, Bickers etc) rotated as the track turns commenced, a few faces as yet unknown. Tum, in short sleeves and legs, is obviously from the land of the long white polar ice caps to survive 9 degrees) The handbrake was released turning with the Boundary Rd tail wind, wheels humming in appreciation. The rider ahead of me lubed my chain and leg via his left nostril >:-/ , and after voicing my thanks, his apologies were accepted. Hommy and Sandy took a Harpo hiatus via Channel Rd as the pack speared south. To clockwise or anti-clockwise in River Rd? that is the question (a call in favour of anti was confirmed). A few took up rearmost respiratory respite as pace placated patience, a solitary punctured pussycat was in roadside repair near the dip, seeking solidarity? Kate was still taking tenacious turns through Central Kialla, but Mt.Nicolaci expired her efforts. Considerately off the throttle through intersections and turns, the bunch solidified along Raftery, building for the Conrod blast (albeit against the 20+km/h northerly). Sitting snug at fourth wheel with 200m to go (and a well timed lead out from Tum and Dipper) handed me the win (with an investment of 190bpm and 47km/h), maybe a little rude as an invited guest, but Coggo informs me there's no friends in a sprint.
A blow dried and desolate Old Dookie Rd Friday morning, hardly heartwarming at 4 degrees. Some mercy from a brewing WNW helped the Mavic's strike a B minor out to Boundary Rd, thoughts suppressed any record breaking times, a short lap to enjoy as reward for surviving a windswept week. Passed the pub, a distant glimmer of bike lights approaching as I steered into Channel Rd, with furrowed brow and gritted molars to face the 25km/h ravages for the 8k slog home. Foolishly glancing back at the S bend I saw bikes in pursuit, funny how fast the competitive spirit is activated. 30bpm was added to the effort (with only a whisker added to speed) and by the cypress trees legs were protesting, some hope of holding a gap possible. This carrot was running low on reserves with two rabbits closing in at the school, by Kensington gardens all was lost when Europcar's Pierre Rolland and Movistar's Alejandro Valverde (cunningly disguised as mild mannered PistolPete and Wozza) caught and passed, at least their manners towed me to the finish.
Week 31 240km YTD 8,243 km
Word of the Week
"Chainnointed" (verb) To bear the greasy tatoo of a chain on a leg
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