The Life and Work of PaperThin

What cyclocross courses should be.

2012-02-15T23:44:00.000-08:00

A day.

2012-02-11T00:11:00.000-08:00

So many reasons why this is all kinds of awesome.

2012-02-09T14:18:00.000-08:00

What she said.

2012-02-05T07:25:00.000-08:00

We'll have to see what happens from here on in.

Placebo.

2012-01-31T12:57:00.000-08:00

It's a shame someone has to buy into being cool or shout about the latest and greatest things they have bought to be appreciated by their peers. I'm not sure where I'm going with this train of thought, perhaps it's just an observation.

Why do I want it to be muddy again?

2012-01-30T12:29:00.001-08:00

'appen as maybe

2012-01-29T05:20:00.000-08:00

Taking time off training

+1
A Sunday lunch of fish finger sandwich and Duval.
"the legs were very good today"
Belgian top 7.

-1
Missing a Sunday ride. Think that should change.
Kevin Pauwel's red legwarmers.
Plans need to be made.

Follow the leader.

2012-01-29T04:49:00.000-08:00

Have It.

2012-01-27T11:12:00.000-08:00

Nice words.

2012-01-26T12:45:00.001-08:00

Well written.

Do I need to know.

2012-01-26T12:10:00.000-08:00

There are some people in this world that you can actually have a conversation with. One where it doesn't feel scripted and you respond to what you hear instead of what you have been thinking while the other person is talking. Mostly people want to talk to you or at you. Blasting you with their knowledge, perhaps not even caring if you're listening. The subject matter will be something they think they know a lot about even if most of what they are dishing out is regurgitated opinion.

Nothing else matters. I held my Godson in my arms last night and thought of nothing else other than him. I think children have a very healthy way of making everything else in you life insignificant.

Excellent choice in music

2012-01-24T14:18:00.001-08:00

Say What?

2012-01-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

I've heard so many of these but still so funny.

Run up.

2012-01-22T08:52:00.000-08:00

I held my tongue.

2012-01-22T04:37:00.000-08:00

The subject of style keeps cropping up in my life recently, in everything from cycling to our wedding. I have a few thoughts I would like to write down on the matter.
For me style is not just about looking good but more about the attitude and appearance an individual has almost without choice. In simple terms;
Your 'style' is who you are when no-one is looking.
Being stylish is a compliment but an almost unachievable goal to those who chase it. When it comes to clothing it's very easy to make a fool of yourself by trying to be something you're not in an effort to impress.
I had my first suit fitting earlier in the week for what I will wear on my wedding day. The only other time I have been measured for something was my Bob Jackson, so I was interested how a tailor would differ to a frame builder. As it turns out they are more similar than first thought, my point of view is I want to trust that this person knows his craft, so while I have an outline of what I want I'm prepared to be guided to the best outcome. This worked perfectly with the bike and I have a feeling it will for the suit too. By allowing the 'crafsman' to be in charge they do it their way rather than fitting their way to your demands - the simple way to get what you want is to choose the maker who produces the goods you like the best. No point going to Mercian and asking for a Brian Rourke or going Saville Row and wanting mass-production.
It's not a case of high quality or brand names being the best either. The phrase "fit for purpose" rings true - you shouldn't get married in a hoody or wear the 'Sunday Best' for washing up.
If style is being yourself then this also raises the problem of punching above your weight. This one is more obvious in material possessions rather than clothing. The ill-advised sports car or the bike scared to be ridden in case it get's dirty or scratched. In my circle of friends we all do (and always have liked) to have 'nice' things and it's good to have people around you who share similar ideals. But most important of all is to have folks near at hand to remind you of who you really are, mostly this is done by friendly ribbing. If this banter has no ill effect and the decision was quick and felt right - it's usually right, fitting as it were.
I experienced this first hand a couple of times this week. Once when I opened the box revealing my new 'disco slippers' aka cycling shoes and then later the same day when guiding a customer through speccing his custom build on one of our Condor touring bikes. In the latter, I was the playing the trusted expert who was being allowed to do his job to provide the best possible service, while the customer added the personal touches to make it exactly like he had imagined. We both walked away happy.

Agreed.

2012-01-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

More wise words.

On the inside.

2012-01-19T23:57:00.000-08:00

Building.

2012-01-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

It seems like everything is an advert these days, or people are talking as if their only aim is to sell/endorse/big up a product or company.
A shame but not something to dwell on. In the shop we've had a couple of down to earth days - busy but quiet enough to think. One of the benefits of working in a bike shop is the lunch time service on your own bike. For me today it was tyre swap, new brake pads and a quick fettle for the cross bike.
We don't get paid the most, don't have a lot of holidays and we have no ladder to climb but being a bike mechanic is the best job I've had. We get to create, solve problems, see things from the inside and trade price usually beats any 'online' best deals. Knowing what works and what is just hype is the first step to stepping off the 'consumer super highway'.

This is here.

2012-01-17T12:17:00.000-08:00

Rollins was on fire last night - he hardly stopped for breath in two and half hours, keeping everyone in the audience hanging on every word. Nothing was off limits, Black Flag, his constant touring and the inability to say no all got the treatment. It was massively motivating and thought-provoking.
It ended a really busy day that included wedding plans, talking suits and probably a quick trip to London in the near future.

Love the speed of this and the tease of one of my favourite songs going.

This reminds me of growing up.

2012-01-10T12:19:00.000-08:00

Nationals.

2012-01-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

Nys riding away from everyone in the mud again and Aurelien Duval playing it smart to win in France.
Boom wins again - can he win a Classic this year? I think so.

Looks like Ian Field won over here so the National Champion skinsuit with be getting a bit more 'euro' action next season.

Tickets in hand.

2012-01-06T13:16:00.000-08:00

It's not always the one's who are talking the most that you should listen to.

2012-01-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

PEZ: OK, but after all the mud, how do you keep your gear and kit so clean?

BW It only looks clean from afar! If you hold it up to the light, it’s not that clean at all!

Panning.

2012-01-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

Mud.

2012-01-02T05:15:00.000-08:00

Fresh start.

2012-01-01T08:11:00.001-08:00

Part of the problem or part of the solution?

2011-12-30T12:40:00.000-08:00

Lists
Is 2012 the year to stop all this?

What's the world coming to?

2011-12-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

I haven't been online much lately but it's obvious some people have, if only just to tell other people how much of a 'proper' cyclist they are. It seems by ignoring the festive period and riding by any means necessary you can earn 'points' for the middle-aged men, Weekend Warrior Spring classics.
Personally, I've been enjoying alcohol, food and new Peter Kay. Not been out on the bike yet but seen a few 'cross races when I had the chance;

Just found this too, which I couldn't agree with more;
How to Own a Bike

The usual

2011-12-23T23:44:00.000-08:00

It's Christmas. For a change I'm actually all ready, presents bought, shopping done and even tidied the house for family near and far coming. Any routine get thrown out of the window at this time of year, which is why I probably was allowed to watch last night's 'cross race during tea.
Just a quick halfday at work left before the pub, and then we go home for a proper family Christmas. I have a bit of time off where riding will happen but nothing concrete planned just yet.
Merry Christmas.

.........................

2011-12-20T23:33:00.000-08:00

Sandy

2011-12-20T13:37:00.000-08:00

More Motocross Videos

...this is good and is definitely something to think about for the future.

Just to recap...

2011-12-19T14:32:00.000-08:00

...for those at the back. This is everyday tit for tat, you owe your dealer and can't pay back. Fee. Suddenly he's the baddy, so you tell your mates you could have him anyway to look Geeez but he's a shady fuck - Beamer three series, lock stock and two fat fucks backing him up.

Had an excellent ride yesterday. Needed to be fully embrocated and double-layered all over but more than worth the hour of off-road fun it got me. In an effort to not overlook whats on my doorstep, I went to the usual spot only to find it half covered in frozen puddles. Initial investigation of the frozen landscape weren't good but then new lines and circuits became obvious, which along with the slowly defrosting ground made me re-evaluate somewhere I'd almost written off.
Euro 'cross, Christmas parties, hangovers, talking shit, Christmas shopping and another family roast dinner all made for another 'weekend' I wouldn't have any other way.

Mud makes fools of us all.

2011-12-19T02:13:00.001-08:00

A moment too late,

2011-12-17T12:35:00.000-08:00

beaten to the punch by Duncan but still posting it anyway.

Definitely feel like letting most of the air out of my tyres and going for a slide around the local fields will be the safest/most fun/easist way to blow off some steam tomorrow before the werk Christmas bash.

Not 'epic' but still very good.

2011-12-16T12:28:00.000-08:00

Make or break.

2011-12-15T15:04:00.000-08:00

It's nice when a customer puts their trust in you to build them something that's right, in fact a good customer can make a bad week good again.
Done a classic Shimano on Open Pro cyclocross wheelbuild this week, more new bike builds than I can shake a stick at and a personal project going on too. While the world is going wild for 23mm wide rims, sometimes you need to go a bit bigger.

Repeater.

2011-12-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

So very tired of this repeating of opinion and lessons learned, especially at this time of year where the world and his wife seems to want to tell you their resolutions.
Today the facts are I spent the day in my hometown, Nick Craig almost won, took some photographs, talked of things I can only discuss with one person and had Yorkshire Pudding for tea.

Weekend starts here..

2011-12-09T12:43:00.000-08:00

A pint in the Slip after work.
Home-made Mexican tea.
New batteries mean Yashica T5 is up and running.
Train tomorrow back home to see family and friends.
Bradford on Sunday for 'cross.
Hopefully roast dinner to top it all off.

Too much,

2011-12-05T05:27:00.000-08:00

is never good.

Having too much time on your hands, means the things that really need to be done, rarely are. Thinking too much of yourself often leads to vanity and a deluded sense of self-importance. Revealing too much, either in body or mind, means you are trying to hide something or you are judged on the 'cover' not the 'contents'.

I'm fighting on a few fronts at the moment but things are tipping to my side. Recent events and the time of year are making it easier to focus on what's necessary. I'm just looking after my own, not trying to change the world or be an example for anyone else to follow.
Live your own life.

Bummer.

2011-12-03T13:22:00.000-08:00

Today I lost something close to me, Buffy was a great dog and will be very fondly remembered.
I feel like I should just find some land, surround myself with family, build a home, tinker with bikes, drink tea and ignore everything else.

A reminder to myself...

2011-11-29T14:08:00.000-08:00

to go here next year;

I'm loving Bart Aernouts at the moment - partly because of the Rabobank connection and also for seeing his 1x10 Di2 set up at Ruddervoorde. Can't beat Pauwels' butter wouldn't melt interview technique but at the end of the day Nys is still the Boss.

Koksijde

2011-11-28T12:34:00.000-08:00

A thousand words.

2011-11-28T05:47:00.000-08:00

Randoms.

2011-11-27T12:21:00.000-08:00

Knowledge and stuff.

2011-11-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

ALL ANIMALS ARE EQUAL
BUT SOME ANIMALS ARE MORE EQUAL THAN OTHERS.

I respect knowledge and experience but care little for opinion. In my dealings in everyday life I come across less knowledge based on 'hands-on' experience but more and more people prepared to spread what they think or have read as their input into a particular situation. In my mind this is wrong.
For example, if you want a wheel built for a specific purpose it's best to find someone who has built A LOT of wheels before - for YEARS they will have learnt what does and does not work from experience and their advice will be clear and helpful. On the other hand, you could listen to the multitude of conflicted opinion that exists and pick out anything that you consider right. Often this is simply recommendations of a certain product that is in favour at the time but without the reasoning why it works better than anything else. If you're lucky you'd get a good set of wheels or you could end up with a mess someone else will have to fix - usually someone who knows what they're doing better than the random opinion that hindered the initial process.

That may all sound rubbish to most of you. The thing is the people with experience don't necessary shout about it, they go quietly about their business while other 'flash in the pan' merchants come and go around them. This applies to every walk of life, I use the bike world as my example because that's my world but it happens everywhere.
Back to the opening lines of this entry.....we do all start equal but it's how we behave and handle ourselves that gives us our status not an online persona with n friends.

Give it four to five years and it'll be 'Here come the Dutch':

My Sunday's are falling into a nice routine recently. They start with catching up on sleep till mid morning, breakfast and shower then down to the supermarket. When back home I have an hour or so to do some jobs then sit down watching the weekends racing live while eating dinner before some online time till Katherine gets home for tea and a relaxing evening.

Chilling.

2011-11-22T14:23:00.000-08:00

Push to Start.

2011-11-21T12:26:00.001-08:00

When the flag drops - the bullshit stops.

2011-11-21T12:04:00.000-08:00

Elbows.

2011-11-20T10:48:00.000-08:00

I love the style of Under-23 racing. Full of attacking, no fear and usually a fair number of offs.

It's been a strange weekend so far. A good day in the shop yesterday, quiet enough to mean a couple of us had time to address some personal projects. What began as a joke has now taken a life of it's own and has gone too far not to see the light of day - already looking forward to riding next year. I have a page of scribbles, full of ideas based on changing one of my existing bikes for a slightly different use.
Today, with the day to myself, I got to watch Kevin Pauwels have back to back wins and still got my fair share of jobs done.

Rabobank are deep in the game;

Really looking forward to the return of Lars Boom in December for his usual dabble in the mud in preparation for the Classics, and then it all starts again!

Pattern.

2011-11-20T03:37:00.001-08:00

BS

2011-11-17T13:26:00.000-08:00

Now we know

Keep talking.

2011-11-17T12:41:00.000-08:00

Big talk today about future plans.
More photographs.
Did some stuff - saw some things.

Had a little discussion about training partners with someone who gets paid to ride, I'm not alone in my views.
Also working in the bike trade we know too much, it's easy when you believe in the bikes you sell but there is one universal truth we're not meant to tell anyone;
'It's not about the bike'
It's not the tyres or carbon bars either. The enjoyment of the ride will mainly be based on your attitude, your comfort on the correct fit and whether you stay upright going round a wet corner is down to skill not the right rubber compound in a tyre.

Enjoy.

Seeing clearly.

2011-11-16T11:44:00.001-08:00

Singular.

2011-11-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

The hardest part of a solo ride is starting. For a change this morning I got a lift with Katherine when she went to work, this meant I had to be up and out of the door with no room for hesitation. Looking at the weather it was tempting to get back in bed but my body and mind were crying out to ride.
The best thing about cycling, in my opinion, is riding. Not commuting, training or racing but riding for the sake of it. I prefer to either be in a pair or solo, any more than that and it gets messy, these days even finding one other person is difficult but then again I haven't just ridden in ages.
Today was a belter. Revisited a couple of old favourite climbs including Church Hill in Crayke before my traditional route back from Easingwold - over the scary bridge, past the posh school, cross two busy roads and then wind down back into Tad.

I'm reading one of my favourite authors at the moment. He writes about life and cycling so well by just addressing the little moments so many others overlook. It's great when you find a book you could read all in one go but decide to take it one chapter at a time to make it last.

100%

2011-11-11T12:42:00.000-08:00

Do we give 100% effort to anything anymore?
I'd like to say I do but having a few things going on at the same time means sharing time and effort between them all.
I hate the fact life makes you choose but there are no wrong decisions only different outcomes.

Mileage.

2011-11-09T12:52:00.000-08:00

I'm having a hard time with Rapha at the moment but that is another story. The Continental films keep coming and mostly hit the spot.

I've always had a lot of time for Ira Ryan, in my limited dealings with him he has always come across as a good guy. I like his attention to detail here;
It all starts with one giant bag
Thinking a lot about triples, a bar bag full of sarnies and day long rides in the Yorkshire Dales at the moment.

Daily.

2011-11-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

Everyday...
I listen to music.
I am more sure I found the one.
I knowingly spend too much time on the internet.
I sleep for (at least) seven hours.
I am convinced the world is getting less intelligent.
I'm glad I am patient but want a bit more motivation.
I wonder how I'd done if I'd gone into the family business.
I think too much.
I'm glad I get to be myself.
I want/need more tattoos.
I think of those who aren't here anymore.
I smile.

New things.

2011-11-07T13:07:00.000-08:00

Could mountain biking be on the list. Maybe not while I live close to York, I like being able to just ride out of my front door too much but someday probably.

Back to it.

2011-11-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

*I'm now a Godfather.

*My collection of race long footage from this season's Belgian campaign is growing and providing inspiration when most needed.

*Fed up to the back teeth with so much rehashing of what we all know already. I'm going to start learning new stuff and doing new things.

*Beer supplies just about right.

In no particular order.

2011-11-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to the weekend.
Family celebrations.
Problem solving.
Studio headphones and my music.
Standing up for myself.
A perfect fit.
Having a laugh.
Short term goals - long term plans.
Knowing when not to be part of the crowd.
Secret beer shop.
Strictly.
Our big day plans.
I get custom, you're a customer.
Reading.
Her.
Having contacts.
Not paid to sit at a desk all day.
Never, ever using Twitter.
Helping others get the bike they want.
"Tips and Tricks"
Inside jokes.
Not giving a fuck.

Another on the list.

2011-11-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

Let's do this.

So very scared.

2011-10-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

I try my best but sometimes I fall short of where I want to be. Today I failed but will do all I can to stop it happening again.

Adventure. I would love to do something like this but in a way it's also my worst nightmare.

All the trick 'n treater's have gone away and I still have half a bowl of marshmellows, oh well time to fire up the gas hob.

Sandy

2011-10-30T14:21:00.000-07:00

Floor it.

2011-10-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

When I was finialising my plans for the trip to Belgium, it was important to get the right people on board and to find a date when we were all available. It came down to two weekends in October, both of which had Superprestige races happening on the Sunday. In the end we went earlier rather than later, this weekend was the other option manly because of the race in Zonhoven. Having just finished watching today's race it's obvious it would have been a cracker to be at but I have no regrets only ambition to be back there as soon as possible. The course is unusual, as it seems to be located in a huge sandpit. The action usually centres around a very steep sand descent that claims it's fair share of riders who are unlucky enough to come unstuck. Bart Aernouts came off the worst today but still finished the race, which was won by Niels Albert who rode away from everyone on lap one never to be seen again.

This is simply insane;

Had another chilled out Sunday, even got some D.I.Y completed, when it comes to home-improvement I'd rather get someone who knows what they're doing but I can now add minor electrics to my lists of can do's.
Tomorrow I have another list of things to do but out and about not at home. Hopefully it includes a minor improvement to one of my bikes.

Recap, for those at the back.

2011-10-27T14:38:00.000-07:00

Back to emo.

2011-10-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

Who knows when it starts but sooner or later we all change ourselves to fit into the situation our lives have become, simply to make it all more bearable or to forget the truth we don't want to accept.
The other night I had a proper 'monk on', it wasn't a particularly bad day but just something had a left a bad taste. It took some thinking and blasting music from my past to remind me of a couple of important facts, especially as I was also told today;
"Any day you wake up can't be that bad."
There are more important things in life than petty worries about materialistic bullshit.

Interesting.

2011-10-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

A cool insight into the effect of mileage on different riders.

Now.

2011-10-24T12:30:00.000-07:00

Take me here now.

So...

2011-10-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things I've been thinking or doing over the last couple of days;

Half thought I might be coming down with something because I've been so exhausted after work but then sleeping for 12 hours last night seems to have done the trick.
Didn't race today because I couldn't get myself there. Trying to think long term when it comes to racing without getting ahead of myself, now just want to keep off road skills going and mindset ready for a few more efforts before the season changes again.
Have been riding my hack to work. The Bob Jackson is in the spare room for the Winter, the Speedster is in Audax mode and playing about with the idea of a massive mod to the 'cross bike.
It's our first day off together in a while tomorrow, one objective is to look at suits. I want to look like it belongs on me rather than a monkey kicked through Top Shop.
Shot a roll of film in my beloved OM-1 today, all at F1.8. Going back to playing with depth of field and doing stuff that makes me happy.
Watched today's World Cup race whilst eating home-made guacamole and drinking one of those famous Belgian beers. The best thing was all the highlights of the Junior and U23 races - those kids just go right from the gun and don't look back.

Just following orders.

2011-10-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

I've just read these words; Anyone can be cool - being awesome takes practice. I personally couldn't agree more, it's never been easier to align yourself with the latest trend without ever understanding it and this can lead to once obscure interests becoming 'watered down' to better fit in with the mainstream world.
A great example is bands who start small then get big. I have a friend who thinks the first album from any band is the best and all others after aren't worth listening to, I'm not so sure on that one but I love bands who did a few albums etc but then split or just don't exist anymore. This means they can't spoil what made them great for me in the first place. One in particular that springs to mind is "Small Brown Bike", they can do no wrong because they're not around anymore. Their music will always mean something to me I can't really explain - it's the sort of stuff I listen to now when I've had a day where all I wanted to do was swear at folk but shut my mouth instead.
I can come up with so many bands that have gone the other way but there's no use being negative all the time.

+1
The first Condor bikes arriving in the shop.
Knowing people on the inside.
Tips on DVD quality footage.
Maybe planning another trip sooner than I thought.
Genuine people.
Shimano.

-1
Getting dicked around.
Seeing what I love to do change.

What actually matters.

2011-10-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

I could write about meeting the great Freddy Maertens, the swag I brought back from Belgium, future bike plans or the big-ring riding I did this weekend but at the moment the thing I'm most proud of is last night I was asked to be a Godparent to the youngest member of my family.
That is all.

Lastly.

2011-10-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

True story.

2011-10-14T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today I changed a rear inner tube on a Pinarello BMX and then straight away another inner tube on a Time RXRS Ulteam road bike - the first weighed probably twice that of the Time although by the owners description of the road bike it has some faults - it rattles your teeth out under 20mph and after a 140 mile ride last week it left him limp.

What goes up must come down

2011-10-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

Straight back there.

2011-10-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

Watch more video of European Cyclocross 2011/ 2012 on cyclingdirt.org

Centrum Ronde van Vlaanderen

2011-10-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Action

2011-10-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

These kids could race:

We saw the start of this race but couldn't stick around without risking the ferry:

It's strange seeing the course on the screen and knowing exactly what it was like on the day, Euro courses are so much harder when you see them in the flesh.

Back with stories to tell.

2011-10-10T12:48:00.000-07:00

Guess where I was at the weekend

Everything will come out soon enough.

Stoemper

2011-10-06T14:16:00.000-07:00

SF.

2011-10-06T12:08:00.001-07:00

Now we know.

2011-10-06T11:54:00.000-07:00

I think I know what it is now. I don't like people talking for me or like they know me without actually knowing who I am. When this happens, instead of lashing out I retire into myself and become more private. The major problem of this is I become a hermit in my own life and I don't like that. As I said to someone earlier today,
"I neither forget or forgive."
So, this weekend I'm mentally and physically out of the office.

Points mean prizes.

2011-10-03T05:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday morning I was questioning why I want to race my bike, then I went and did my first 'cross race of the season and remembered why.
From my point of view I had a really good race - slow start, didn't blow up half way through, picked up a couple of places each lap, only started to suffer on the last lap, had a minor mechanical on one of the very last corners when I rolled a tub but didn't panic, popped it back on and finished the race 36th out of 53 starters. The worst thing was feeling dehydrated because it was so hot but my bike handling was spot on when it needed to be. I have a few things I can learn from and improve but that's what it's all about.
This morning I got up and got out for a recovery ride, and last ride of the year, on the Bob Jackson. Caught up with a good friend and then filled in everyone at work with what happened during my race.
Now time to turn my attention else where...

Buzzin'

2011-09-29T12:05:00.000-07:00

What a day. I guess another bonus of werking in the trade is 'shows', they are what you make them - granted there is a lot of same old but at the same time you can find some proper gems.

There was far too many bang tidy 'cross bikes but the future is definitely disc brakes, it may not be there now but certainly it isn't far away.

There is so much happening right now, I can't begin to think how good it will get if everything comes together. The only thing slightly missing is a few like-minded people to ride 'cross with - nothing serious but just each person helping push the others with friendly competition - maybe I should start my own gang? It would have a strict entrance exam but the main criteria would be not to be a douche.

A proper winner.

2011-09-28T12:36:00.000-07:00

I'm not massively taken with the three peaks, I would love to ride it one day but probably not any time soon but I am a fan of Nick Craig. A down to earth attitude mixed with unbelievable skill makes him a great rider in my book. Also interesting he rode it all on one bike - just shows obsessing over equipment isn't always the answer.

Under a red sky.

2011-09-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

It's funny how with so little effort your day can go smoothly or descend into madness. Today's activities were planned last night and with agreement for the other half, an evening 'cross training ride was penciled in. Work flowed, Red Bull consumed and just after six I rolled out the door into a warm evening.
An hour sprinting around the tracks, avoiding dog walkers and angry joggers, mainly practicing advice given to me by my betters seems to have paid off. I came away with the thought 'make the best of what you've got', I may not have the perfect place to ride on my doorstep but a little imagination goes a long way. I've always had a decent amount of power when riding off road but lacking confidence and technique means the speed isn't always there. That's slowly changing and with confidence in my equipment (even the brakes most of the time) I feel a little faster than last year.
This feeling carries over into quite a few aspects of my life at the moment and I don't always feel that way. In a way it get's easier when you don't focus too much on what's going on around you but make sure everything that matters is sorted. I'm definitely taking that attitude with a little travel arrangement currently. Transport, check. Accommodation, check. Everything else, we'll see.

Joy Division Oven Gloves.

2011-09-24T11:51:00.000-07:00

A morning diverted by waiting for the plumber meant my all day ride plan and last outing on the Bob Jackson for this year had to be shelved.
So as usual I hit YouTube for inspiration:

Ended up with a really good out and back to some of my favourite singletrack. A couple of hours blasting through trees, avoiding dogwalkers and leaving my Grifo tread pattern in the mud. It was a great antidote from the week of work I'd just done, not stressful just jam packed, also blasting Half Man Half Buscuit helps too.

Trying to get the details right.

2011-09-22T14:08:00.000-07:00

Good:
Thinking about the next possible new bike.
A Saturday to myself.
Being involved at work.
Chocolates brought back from Belgium.

Bad:
Thinking about the next possible new bike.
Ebay time-wasters.

Indifferent:
Rough commutes.
Not enough time in the day.

Get off the bandwagon and put down the handbook.

2011-09-21T12:22:00.000-07:00

This is so very, very true.

Enough said.

Frustrating.

2011-09-18T12:42:00.000-07:00

Today could have been so different. The latest round of the Yorkshire Points cyclocross series was in the village where I was born and raised, and where 80% of my family still live within 3 miles of. To say it was my home race would be putting it mildly, however I was not in a fit state to take part. I turned up not even sure why I was there, half a practice lap later I knew I wouldn't be racing. I had the lung capacity of an asthmatic budgie and no power anywhere. A real shame as it was a pretty good course, maybe not ideally suited to my lack of tech skills but would have been a good test.
The whole day has highlighted a few things for me and given me some points to work on in the near future, also raised a question I've been thinking about for a while;
Are West Yorkshire cyclists 'harder' than those from York and surrounding area?
I certainly think cyclists in York can suffer from a lack of drive and camaraderie that those from the Halifax area seem to have in bucket loads. Maybe it's just the lack of hills, it could be something deeper like the differences between the working and middle class populations or it could just be rubbish and we're all the same.

Belgian humour

2011-09-17T08:07:00.000-07:00

Watch more video of CrossVegas 2011 on cyclingdirt.org

Pride.

2011-09-15T23:25:00.000-07:00

A little bit of Friday inspiration;
Belgium the only place where they clean the roads for a bike race.
Lars Boom making it look easy.
Guy martin making you wish you had his desire and drive.
And a little bit of classic Yorkshire too.

Tally.

2011-09-14T14:10:00.000-07:00

+1

Boom taking control in the ToB.
The wind is dying down on the commutes.
Beer festival time.
Cyclocross.

-1

Major sore throat at the moment.
Still not a moments peace.

Not here or there.

2011-09-13T08:13:00.000-07:00

Without effort everything can slowly diminish. Although when the effort feels like a battle it's probably not worth it, unless the juice is worth the squeeze. I have weeks of being all over the shop in front of me but it's all my own doing, there's been enough sat around so now we can have some action.
Ask me how it all went in November.

Go Dutch.

2011-09-12T04:00:00.000-07:00

No idea what's being said but the footage speaks for itself;

Boom does it all right, and usually Euro to the extreme;
-He respects the lifestyle that comes with being a Pro cyclist, follows 'Le Metier' if you will.
-Always trains in matching kit and fully covered up.
-Rocked a Euro mullet shamelessly.
-Is almost the complete rider, World and Dutch champion in multi disciplines, is seen in the Classics, breakaways and a lead out man in stage races and wins a few 'cross races in the winter.
-Still a small town guy.
-Does everything with a sense of style that most people would give their right leg for.
-Di2 on every bike.

The stars of Amateur hour

2011-09-11T13:06:00.000-07:00

I think it's about time we forget about the idea of PRO, leave it to the professionals and embrace being amateurs. No-one is getting paid to ride so forget the attitude and enjoy it.
Had a nice morning seeing how low I could go with pressure in both set of tubs. Discovered what was too low and then settled on a couple or race day settings that should do me right for every occassion. The best thing however was my gluing stood up to the test, giving me more confidence to throw the bike around.

Don't Panic

2011-09-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

This is probably going to be one of those blog entries that rattles on a while because not only do I have some time on my hands to mull over several subjects but also I have some responsibility this weekend so am likely to be broken away from the task at hand.
Let me begin with thoughts of priorities. I think we live in a very confused time, I know money makes the world go round but as there seems to be less money around people are exploring other aspects of life. An example of this I encounter more than most because of my profession is the middle-aged man wanting to reinvent himself as a bike mechanic. I can't offer much in the way of explanation, but there are others too such as celebrity farmers and a rise of the here today, gone tomorrow 'bits and pieces' shops. I was told this week that there isn't actually less money today than in the past, it's more like those with it aren't spending or investing because there is less chance of a decent return. Personally I try to distance money from my decisions, sometimes it's impossible but most of the time it succeeds in making my life a little more enjoyable.
Back to priorities, I can see at the moment where I'm failing. I need to make sure I pay attention to the most important aspects and aren't too distracted by outside influences. I want to make sure I look after those closest to me, plan for our future and make sure we get the most out of life. If I had my way, it would be a Mediterranean way of life we followed, based on home-life, family, good food and quality rather than quantity.

Somethings I keep for the future, always planning.

For some people I would go to the edge of the world.

Almost time for tasting blood in the name of fun.

Over the next few days away from my usual surroundings I shall be doing a fair bit of equipment testing of my workman-like 'cross bike and wheels. There will be no reports unless of an spectacular success or failure.
In my mind if you want to make cyclocross sexier, leave the marshmellows and novelty at home and bring professionalism and hard racing.

Thinks that's enough, time to crack open one of my Dad's bottles of red wine, think about what's for tea, walk the dogs and prepare for the start of Strictly tonight.

Another.

2011-09-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

Skills.

2011-09-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

There is not much more satisfying than learning and perfecting new skills. Tonight I have been mostly applying a second layer of glue on the rim and adding a first to a fresh tubular base tape, tomorrow night more glue will be added before I join the two halves together and create a bond that will see me through the season's racing.
Gluing tubs is a perfect example of a skill which seems impossible at first but when explained is very straight-forward, it just requires complete focus and attention to detail. At first I was a little messy, maybe not in total control but still got the job done. Now I'm on another level, learning from my own experiences and finding what works the best for me. There is always more to learn and I already know improvements for the future. The best part is being responsible for my own equipment, there is no blame just mistakes to learn from.

Talking of seasons I might even be around during the 'festive period' this year and get to race at Tod this year.

Todmorden Cyclocross 2011 from Maia Media on Vimeo.

Know where you come from.

2011-09-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

Two hundred miles in a car solo really gives you some quality thinking time and chance to blast some tunes.

dave young. Nowhere Fast bmx video. from martin bravo on Vimeo.

This video part is responsible for so much in BMX and also introducing me to the wonders of Slayer. Reign in Blood helped keep me awake tonight, also makes a commute pass a little faster than normal.

Rocket From The Crypt, this was the first time I ever heard of them - bought the album 'Scream, Dracula Scream' the next day and haven't looked back since. Speedo is a sideburn hero too.

As powerful as any guitar music, name of the song says it all.

Keep it like a secret.

2011-09-02T10:45:00.000-07:00

So much going on, can't even start. Lists help me function;

I'm now deep in the tubular game but actually taken a side step in a slightly different direction and am quietly confident about it paying off.

Found the best small Italian restaurant the other night, will be revisited many times.

Got my passport back in record quick time - good to leave the country for another 10 years.

A few changes at work for Winter, hopefully we get a bit more time together.

Sometimes working in a bike shop is the best job in the world, especially when you get your favourite products on clearance and TRADE!

Got a weekend of driving over 400 miles ahead of me. IPod charged and full of hardcore/punk to ensure there's no dawdling.

Assembling some Rapha themed ebay listings for the near future.

Also, this RaphaSuperCross has me slightly concerned. I loved racing at Huddersfield last year - sounds pretty nightmareish this time round.

There's more but I just don't have the time.