Guess that Group Ride…

It was eight degrees last Thursday night. I went through the day hoping the outside temperature might increase for a more comfortable evening ride. As ride time approached, I drove to the Minnesota River Bottoms in complete cycling wear excluding my helmet and goggles. Within five minutes of riding, the better part of the ten or so of us had already taken a dirt sample. More of an ice sample actually. The trail had its slick spots, but the four-inch wide Surly Nate’s were predictable and kept me mostly on two wheels. Being a first timer on this group ride, I am still not completely aware of the “point system.” I apparently scored a point upon attempting a “skinny”[1] and coming to rest with my bike on top of me in the bushes. Mr. Goat would not divulge the inner workings of the point system to me. Maybe another day I will learn the game…

If you have not figured it out yet, I went on my first LCR[2] River Bottoms group ride; it was cold, and awesome. The pace was energetic but still allowed plenty of time to test ones skills at each obstacle.

On paper the LCR team would look like an extreme sports team. The background of most of their riders is fascinating. They have elite- level Superbike Racers, body builders, an Olympic level ski jumper, countless motocross and hare- scramble racers and, even better, they all like hockey! I wouldn’t be surprised if some Red Bull stunts are based on inspiration from these guys.

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[1] “Skinny”

-A ride-able surface which poses a challenge or inherent risk in successfully riding “the skinny” in entirety. A “skinnies” surface is of varying width, height, and distance off the ground. A “skinny” is often constructed of dimensional lumber or from a fallen tree.

 

 

[2] LCR

-Larson’s Cycle Racing is a do- all motorsports shop located in Cambridge, MN. They have dirt bikes, ATV’s, street bikes, side by sides, snowmobiles, and more. They stock everything you need to be on the trail tomorrow. Their service and sales staff is hands down the best in the Metro. LCR owner, Mike Larson, a mountain bike racer while not participating in Motorsports, sponsors the LCR mountain bike team.

 

Rest in Peace Packers. Giants 37, Packers 20

My sister Kato taught me how to use her sewing machine last friday night. It was likely the most useful friday night I have ever had.

My dad on his new BMC Fourstroke FS02! He loves it and he seemed to have magically got faster on the full suspension 26er'.

My Oma and Opa took me out to eat at my favorite restaurant, Roat Osha. I decided to dress up the Stone Elephant in my clothes. The restaurant manager undressed the elephant upon seeing its outfit.

My dad helped me to wash my BMC bike fleet during the packers game.