February 2008

And how to do it correctly.

Nearly everyone that asks for advise about buying a bicycle is told the exact same thing, go out and test ride a few bikes to see what you like. Well despite being probably the most ubiquitous piece of advise given, in most cases without qualifications it is not the best.

Unless you are a cycling enthusiast that lives under a rock, you have heard by now that Team Astana will not be competing in the 2008 Tour de France. It is just unimaginable how two podium finishers, last year’s winner Alberto Contador and third place finisher Levi Leipheimer, will not be contending for the Yellow Jersey. If you feel so inclined, both of these cyclists have set up web sites with electronic petitions to the Amaury Sports Organization (ASO). The ASO is the organizer of the Paris-Nice, Paris-Roubaix, Paris-Tours, and the famed Tour de France.

Yesterday was the day to sign up for the Assault on Mt Mitchell. Only 1000 riders get to climb to the top. With my number and credit card in hand I signed on to Active.com at 3:58 PM waiting for 4:00 to arrive. By 4:05 PM I was signed up and I ended up with rider number 895. The Freewheeler’s site says that all slots were allotted in seven minutes!

Well, it is about the time of year where the weather turns wet and dreary and thoughts turn to what you can do to upgrade your current ride. We have been a little spoiled with a mild winter and the opportunity to ride outside for much of it.

Promoting a friendlier and safer environment in Charlotte for bicycle transportation.

Teaching bicycle safety for riders of all ages. Heightening driver awareness of SHARE THE ROAD concept Supporting “bike-friendly” changes in the Charlotte Area Transportation Plan.

Proceeds benefiting the Charlotte community and B.I.K.E.S. of Charlotte-Mecklenburg www.charlottebikes.org

Register online and avoid the long lines! Family Ride starts at 8:45. The 13 and 25 Mile rodes start at 9:30.

I found this amusing and thought I would share.