Post-race Report

David Douglas Park, Oct 26
Beginner Category

Let me start off by saying that I really am not the competitive type. When I hear "race" I think meh, not for me. The problem with cyclocross though is that the only way to truly get the full experience is to enter a race. So I did. At first I thought I was crazy for doing so. As I said, I'm not competitive, I'm not that fast and I really am not in shape to be doing such a thing. Not to mention I have no health insurance other than two excellent friends who happen to be doctors. But, this is something that I've always wanted to try since moving here 8 years ago.

This seemed to be the perfect venue to start out in. When everyone in the "race scene" were in Bend for the big Cross Crusade race, DD was here close to home and easily accessible. Plus, not a lot of people on the course made it completely less intimidating.

Two days before the race I decided to get out on my cross bike and practice a little. I wanted to at least attempt a mount/dismount for going over barriers. I got out and pretty quickly caught on. (Thanks YouTube for showing me the way!) The other fear I had coming in was "off camber" areas. Riding in mud is difficult enough, but add in a turn at the bottom of a muddy descent and you have yourself some 'splaining to do when you end up laying in it! Or not I guess unless you've crashed into someone else. Well, I quickly realized that I've still got some mad mountain biking skills and put those skills to the test with that stuff! What others were running or crashing through I rode over. Same with the single track section. I knew I put a flat bar on my cross bike for a reason.

3 laps and about 45 minutes later I found myself finally crossing the finish line. I had such a huge smile on my face I probably looked like the biggest goober out there. But you know what? So what! I had so much fun doing it! I wasn't in it to win. My goal was just to finish without throwing up during the race. I met those goals so it's all good from where I stand. Or lay as the case may be right now.

Special thanks to Sherri for being my biggest cheerleader. And to the Sorellas who were out there with me either in the same race or cheering us on from the sidelines. I'm very happy to have joined such an awesome and inspiring group of women.

Can you have too many bikes?

I'm thinking yes. For the first time in a really long time, I believe I have an addiction. I need to always be working on a bike. Building, changing parts or components, whatever. I love working on bikes. I love to build different bikes.

These are some pictures of my latest creation. I've never ridden a 29'r so I figured what the heck! Build one and see if you like it. Problem is, I always love my creations.

 On One Inbred Single Speed 29'r frame with Carbon/Alloy fork. I had the wheels built at Western Bikeworks. Doug S. did an awesome job. (Thanks Doug!!) Chris King ISO hubs, Stan's NoTubes Flow 29" rims in white, Sapim spokes. Dang, nothing but the best for me. Maybe that's my problem. Champagne taste and all.

Now I'm thinking of a cyclocross bike. I had one and did not like what I had intended it for. It was to be my winter commuter a few years ago. Too much toe overlap. Will I have the same problem if I were to get another cross bike? I'm sure I will, but now I'm more prepared for it. Or so I try to justify and rationalize my decisions.

So what is an addicted cyclist supposed to do who does not ride all her bikes on any kind of regular basis? I've decided to photograph the Cross Crusade this year. If I can't be on a bike racing in the mud, I may as well photograph those who will be. Who knows? Maybe I'll find another obsession to cram in my life.

Cannondale Synapse Shipped

OMG~ I'm so excited. My new bike shipped and should be arriving next week. No more sore back and neck pain.