This is the time of year for making hay as they say (they as in them) and we are definitely making some hay. Work hours have crept more and more into the free hours in order to keep people pedaling. The ebb and flow of the bike biz. In itself rewarding and taxing at the same time. Taxing only because it makes travel near impossible and I find myself missing time with the family out of state.
But hay season doesn't last all year and plans are being made for off-season travel so I just need to be patient, which doesn't come easily for me. Luckily I am surrounded by amazing and incredible friends who, for all intents and purposes, are family. Saturday happened to have the stars align to allow several of us to enjoy a brief, but fun, ride together after closing the shop. Friends like these make life better and the taxing hours and waiting for travel more bearable.
Unfortunately, three of these friends will soon be leaving. One (Scott "Monster" McConnell) will be flying out next Wednesday for his first attempt at racing/riding the Tour Divide. I've been able to enjoy a few overnights and late night rides with Scott and his Moots MootoX singlespeed during his build up for the grand depart. The recent months have proved to be a little too jam packed with obligations to get away much, but I was fortunate enough to snag a last ride in with him before he leaves. If anybody can complete this grueling race, Monster can. I imagine the most tired muscles will be in his face from smiling so much. Godspeed Scotty. Pedal on!
Another friend and co-worker Patrico will be leaving at the end of the month for a cycling adventure all of his own. He'll be riding from Coast to Coast across America on his Swiss Army Knife of bikes: a custom S&S coupled, every feature sans a chain hanger (#regret), Moots Psychlo-X ultimate adventure bike. Patrico and I have grown pretty close outside of work. He's been a competent farm sitter, a compatriot photography nut, a solid riding partner, and popcorn gourmet. He's moving on to the next chapter of his young life and I'm excited for him, but his presence will be greatly missed around the shop, farm, and back country roads. Although I'm not one to desire a cross country road biking trip, I know it's going to be an amazing journey and I'm a bit envious of his current freedom. My wish for him is to include a bit more gravel/dirt roads and explore more of the remoteness and beauty the Midwest has to offer along his trek across America. Safe travels Patrico. I expect some amazing photos and video and a coffee table book for my bike room. Pedal on!
AdamD, the Apollo to my Rocky. Although he isn't leaving for a cycling adventure, he is leaving soon to follow his passion into the next chapter of his young career. With an eye to the future and a nose to the books, he will soon be off full-time to finish his degree in Mechanical Engineering. He'll still be in the same area code as me and although our schedules won't mesh completely, we should still be able to find some time to pedal together, his presence at work will be greatly missed. He's always been my parachute and had my back. It'll be weird opening the shop without him and his wacky music selections and poor clothing choices.
Changes are scary. Most people resist change pretty hard. As much as a couple of these changes will have profound effects on my life, I'm pretty at ease with them. Social media is great at closing the gaps in time and place and it'll be fun learning what bends and turns their travels will take them. And rather than sadness, I'm filled with excitement. New chapters for all and adventures to be shared. Even if it means I'm the one stuck in the same place. I'm pretty happy in my place. It's a good place to be.
At the moment I am enjoying a lazy Sunday morning listening to a few of my favorite NPR radio shows and listening to the thunderstorm outside. It's been a long time since I've had a day off in the rain (typically it's a race, a commute, or a work event when it's rained lately) and it's rather serene. And as any lazy morning should, I've had some good internet time and stumbled upon a few items I'd like to share.
First, this is a great video. Grab a cup of java, sit back and envy James and his collection, his shop, and his cool ass truck.
Secondly, Bunyan Velo is a relatively new quarterly digital magazine comprised of photos, essays, and stories from cyclists around the globe. It's free online or you can purchase digital copies. I haven't read it yet, but I have looked through at the photos twice of issue 2. My current favorite photo is of the dog sled team.
Thirdly, Specialized (a California bike manufacturer) recently announced their all new over the top wind tunnel for testing designs of bikes, tires, wheels, helmets, clothing, and even trees (hey it's their tunnel and they can do what they want) at their convenience. Velo Orange is a company that makes items for commuters and everyday cyclists like baskets, handlebars, and fenders. I love companies that have and display a sense of humor and Velo Orange has pretty good sense.
No comments:
Post a Comment