I am so tired. Mentally, I'm alert, but this commute gets to me sometimes. I don't make it any easier on myself by riding it fixed. My legs feel like they are made of wood. Today it has been two weeks since I've driven to work. To be fair, I car pooled once. I don't have an aversion to driving, and I love my car. Rather, I'm trying to wean myself from my emotional attachment. When I purchased this car, five years ago, it was really an impulse buy. My other car was paid off and working fine. I was merely poking around amazon.com and noticed they were selling cars. How could this be? So I explored the site and discovered this creature with aluminum pedals. Seriously, that was all it took. I tend not to be practical in such matters. When faced with years of payments, I'd rather it be an emtional decision. I clicked through the finance link, just to see what sort of interest rate I'd qualify for through eloan. Of course, they take you through a labyrinth of an application, then tell you that they will send you a check with the terms of the loan. If I didn't want it, I'd simply tear up the check. There was no intermediate step involved.
Daily, I had to drive by the dealership. I finally relented and took the car for a test drive. That same day, a blank check was waiting for me at home. It was too easy. I took delivery on Halloween of 2000. [Note to anyone buying a car: wait that extra day, so your tabs will be good an extra month.] One thing I hadn't considered at the time was that its high compression engine requires higher octane fuel. I've been paying a premium at the pump for years- and it doesn't receive the best gas mileage in the first place.
Fast forward five reliable years and I'm faced with having to sell it. The question will be how long I can hold out without a car. Last time I was car free was when I was a freshman in college. I had no mortgage or consumer debt back then either- nor will I when we move. I sometimes struggle trying to determine if this is a step forward or backward. I've been thoroughly conditioned to having a car- and car payment. It has become normal. This zebra will try to change his stripes.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Why Don't I Ever Learn
I woke up at 5:30 this morning- out of habit if nothing else. I usually need to wait until about 6:15 before there is enough light to ride to work. I could put my headlight back on, but why bother? Anyway, I added a front brake to the moustache bars and rode the black mystery bike to work. Half-way to work I really wasn't grooving on the bars- they were causing substantial hand pain. Thankfully, my comfort resumed with a simple adjustment. I also discovered all my chain ring bolts had worked their way loose, so I tightened them up. I can't figure out why this happens all the time. Happiness is a silent drive train.
I immersed myself in work, reworking the presentation I'll be giving in a few weeks in Mankato. I'm really comfortable with this type of project. It feels like old-school college homework to me. With everything going on right now, I like the task-oriented nature of this type of project. There are several people on vacation this week that I have to cover for. It was a miracle that I was able to accomplish anything today.
From work I phoned One-On-One to inquire about buying a recycled quill stem for Lise's commuter. I used what I had- and the shortest stem was still too long for her comfort. They told me I could stop by and scrounge around in the basement bone yard. If you've never been there, you should really check it out. It is one of the most surreal locations in Minneapolis.
After work I rode toward downtown Minneapolis, carefully plotting the flattest route. There are days where I tire of riding fixed all the time. Yesterday my down tube friction shifters arrived. They are old Shimano 600 clamp-ons that look faux-ornate, like an 1800s pistol handle. All I need now is a chain, and probably a rear brake, and maybe a rear wheel? I can still rock the 16 tooth cog- spin a little more often and warm up to the moustache bars. In my haste this morning, I gave them a totally ghetto tape job, using remnants from maybe three or four rolls of tape. I'll toss on the non-aero levers when I fully "un-convert" it.
During my ride I happened to pass a few roadies on Mississippi Boulevard. I really wasn't trying to be a hammerhead- especially given my low gearing today. I don't think it goes over very well to be passed by my Snidely Whiplash bike. Perhaps as it cools I can wear a top hat and tux with tails. Eventually I made it downtown to One-On-One-- and found that they were closed: "Out riding." I can't fault them for riding on such a nice day, but this is yet another irritation experience I've had with them.
My first experience was when I wanted to replace my old single pivot brake with a dual pivot. The guy suggested my real problem was cable compression, and he suggested that I actually use derailleur housing. Maybe it would work, but everything I've ever read acts like you'll die a violent, slow, painful death if you attempt such folly, since the steel housing isn't coiled. Rather, the housing is basically held together by the plastic, whereas on a brake housing, the plastic merely serves to protect the bike's finish. He seemed to avoid selling me anything- like how I try to discourage people from buying guitars from me.
That bizarre experience was corrected when I scored a great deal on a 600 crank set for the Prologue. They were, however, busy haranguing other customers at the time. Today they decided to close early. Makes sense to me- makes more sense than being open until 7 when they are located downtown. But while I don't understand them, I'm glad they are around. They are like the Bahá'í Temple of bike shops. Thusly discouraged from seeking a quill stem from them, I'll turn to my old friend, ebay.
I immersed myself in work, reworking the presentation I'll be giving in a few weeks in Mankato. I'm really comfortable with this type of project. It feels like old-school college homework to me. With everything going on right now, I like the task-oriented nature of this type of project. There are several people on vacation this week that I have to cover for. It was a miracle that I was able to accomplish anything today.
From work I phoned One-On-One to inquire about buying a recycled quill stem for Lise's commuter. I used what I had- and the shortest stem was still too long for her comfort. They told me I could stop by and scrounge around in the basement bone yard. If you've never been there, you should really check it out. It is one of the most surreal locations in Minneapolis.
After work I rode toward downtown Minneapolis, carefully plotting the flattest route. There are days where I tire of riding fixed all the time. Yesterday my down tube friction shifters arrived. They are old Shimano 600 clamp-ons that look faux-ornate, like an 1800s pistol handle. All I need now is a chain, and probably a rear brake, and maybe a rear wheel? I can still rock the 16 tooth cog- spin a little more often and warm up to the moustache bars. In my haste this morning, I gave them a totally ghetto tape job, using remnants from maybe three or four rolls of tape. I'll toss on the non-aero levers when I fully "un-convert" it.
During my ride I happened to pass a few roadies on Mississippi Boulevard. I really wasn't trying to be a hammerhead- especially given my low gearing today. I don't think it goes over very well to be passed by my Snidely Whiplash bike. Perhaps as it cools I can wear a top hat and tux with tails. Eventually I made it downtown to One-On-One-- and found that they were closed: "Out riding." I can't fault them for riding on such a nice day, but this is yet another irritation experience I've had with them.
My first experience was when I wanted to replace my old single pivot brake with a dual pivot. The guy suggested my real problem was cable compression, and he suggested that I actually use derailleur housing. Maybe it would work, but everything I've ever read acts like you'll die a violent, slow, painful death if you attempt such folly, since the steel housing isn't coiled. Rather, the housing is basically held together by the plastic, whereas on a brake housing, the plastic merely serves to protect the bike's finish. He seemed to avoid selling me anything- like how I try to discourage people from buying guitars from me.
That bizarre experience was corrected when I scored a great deal on a 600 crank set for the Prologue. They were, however, busy haranguing other customers at the time. Today they decided to close early. Makes sense to me- makes more sense than being open until 7 when they are located downtown. But while I don't understand them, I'm glad they are around. They are like the Bahá'í Temple of bike shops. Thusly discouraged from seeking a quill stem from them, I'll turn to my old friend, ebay.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Craig's List
We are selling a mixed bag of items on Craig’s List- things we do not want to move, cannot use in Norway, or haven’t used in years. Among the items was my 1983 Stratocaster- a genuine, made-in-the-USA model that has been thoroughly abused, scratched, dented, burned, and modified by yours truly. Actually, it was in rough shape before I purchased it. I could only afford a beater guitar when I was in college.
I wanted to find a local seller, since its condition was marginal. Mint Strats from this vintage can fetch around $1500 on ebay. Used condition can run around $600-800. I was asking $300, since I had taken a router to it and installed a rear humbucker and modified the electronics. I still had the original pickup. I did everything I could in my ad to discourage buyers. I hosted large, hi-res images, rather than the puny CL-hosted photos. I exhaustedly described its disreputable condition. I disclosed the sacrilege of my modifications. I received offers from all over the country.
Many of these were lowballers. The tremolo bar alone for the ’83 model has been going for $90 on ebay. Also, this had the case. The case and electronics should cost $300. Anyway, I finally narrowed it down to two local buyers. Over the phone, I tired to discourage both from buying it. Russ called me first to express his interest. He wanted to maybe stop by last night to buy it. Sloane was also interested, and called to schedule a time to see it later today. After I scheduled with Sloane, Russ said he might be in the neighborhood in the evening. We were leaving for a dinner party, and I said I’d call him later around 9-ish. We had a late start for dinner. Before I knew it, it was 9:30. I called Russ. Incredibly he was parked a block from our house, waiting for my call. I was annoyed, since I didn’t think this was a “for sure” thing- based on our previous conversation. I left dessert early and headed home. As I drove, another guy phoned who was interested in buying some speakers. I told him I was heading home.
As I was parking at home, I noticed the streetlight was out, and two guys were waiting on the dark corner. One looked like a Mormon missionary with a buttoned up white shirt. The other was a big guy with a shock of salt and pepper hair. I introduced myself. We joked about the confusion as each guy thought the other was me. We went into the house and straight down to the basement. Russ took a quick look at the guitar and said he’d take it. Adam pulled out his money to buy the speakers. I offered to help Adam load his car. Russ asked if I was selling any more music gear (which I’m not).
As I carried one of the Yamaha speakers to Adam’s minivan, I noticed it was completely crammed full of “stuff.” He said he was helping his girlfriend move to Eagan. I had no idea where he would fit them. He told me to set it on the seat. He didn’t want to keep me from returning for dessert. I headed back to the get-together. By the time we returned home an hour later, Adam was gone. Somehow he found room for the speakers.
Ebay is so much easier. There is no haggling on the price, no missed meetings to pick things up, no crossed phone calls, no strangers coming over at night. On the flip-side, last night went quite smoothly. I sold that old guitar for what I paid for it- almost twenty years ago. I received a great price for the speakers- which truthfully didn’t deserve being branded as Yamaha. Now for the rest of our junk….
I wanted to find a local seller, since its condition was marginal. Mint Strats from this vintage can fetch around $1500 on ebay. Used condition can run around $600-800. I was asking $300, since I had taken a router to it and installed a rear humbucker and modified the electronics. I still had the original pickup. I did everything I could in my ad to discourage buyers. I hosted large, hi-res images, rather than the puny CL-hosted photos. I exhaustedly described its disreputable condition. I disclosed the sacrilege of my modifications. I received offers from all over the country.
Many of these were lowballers. The tremolo bar alone for the ’83 model has been going for $90 on ebay. Also, this had the case. The case and electronics should cost $300. Anyway, I finally narrowed it down to two local buyers. Over the phone, I tired to discourage both from buying it. Russ called me first to express his interest. He wanted to maybe stop by last night to buy it. Sloane was also interested, and called to schedule a time to see it later today. After I scheduled with Sloane, Russ said he might be in the neighborhood in the evening. We were leaving for a dinner party, and I said I’d call him later around 9-ish. We had a late start for dinner. Before I knew it, it was 9:30. I called Russ. Incredibly he was parked a block from our house, waiting for my call. I was annoyed, since I didn’t think this was a “for sure” thing- based on our previous conversation. I left dessert early and headed home. As I drove, another guy phoned who was interested in buying some speakers. I told him I was heading home.
As I was parking at home, I noticed the streetlight was out, and two guys were waiting on the dark corner. One looked like a Mormon missionary with a buttoned up white shirt. The other was a big guy with a shock of salt and pepper hair. I introduced myself. We joked about the confusion as each guy thought the other was me. We went into the house and straight down to the basement. Russ took a quick look at the guitar and said he’d take it. Adam pulled out his money to buy the speakers. I offered to help Adam load his car. Russ asked if I was selling any more music gear (which I’m not).
As I carried one of the Yamaha speakers to Adam’s minivan, I noticed it was completely crammed full of “stuff.” He said he was helping his girlfriend move to Eagan. I had no idea where he would fit them. He told me to set it on the seat. He didn’t want to keep me from returning for dessert. I headed back to the get-together. By the time we returned home an hour later, Adam was gone. Somehow he found room for the speakers.
Ebay is so much easier. There is no haggling on the price, no missed meetings to pick things up, no crossed phone calls, no strangers coming over at night. On the flip-side, last night went quite smoothly. I sold that old guitar for what I paid for it- almost twenty years ago. I received a great price for the speakers- which truthfully didn’t deserve being branded as Yamaha. Now for the rest of our junk….
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Moustache Bars
Nice thing about an open-face stem like the Deda Murex is that I can easily swap out bars. I installed the Nitto wannabe. I didn't have a brake housing, so I thought I'd ride brakeless to the shop to buy one. It looked pretty hardcore with no brakes, no tape. Of course my wife is just too smart for her own good. She took one look at my bike as I was leaving and asked, "Where's your brakes?" I'm not really into the whole fixie brakeless scene- though I can handle it. Besides, this bike will eventually run geared with panniers. I'll enjoy its present incarnation while it lasts.
No Time for Frivolity
It is that time of year again. Friday I car pooled with my wife, rather than endure the driving rain. It has been quite some time since I've seen rain like that during a morning rush hour. At least I saved a trip to work. Yesterday I worked for the County, which required use of my car, so that was a non-issue. I sold an extra bike to a coworker yesterday- for a very fair price. We are down to six bikes. We plan to sell one of my wife's bikes as well, bringing us down to a total of five that need to move, rather than seven.
My moustaches arrived yesterday. I love Ben's Bike out of Milwaukee- they are excellent ebayers, and I highly recommend them. I might fool around with them today. With all my commuting as of late, I can hardly bring myself to take a recreational ride. Racing is finished, and just riding around seems almost pointless. At this point in the year, it is about transportation. My legs feel like wood after the 200+ miles ridden last week- all of it fixed gear. I would argue that it is more equivalent to 300 miles on a geared bike that coasts. My commute keeps my heart rate more in the fat-burning zone- not that I have much fat to begin with, but it is quite different than interval training that I try to keep up with during the race season. The irony is that I end up looking leaner and meaner well after April, when I could have really used it. Of course, this time of year I end up being like a diesel engine- all endurance with no top end. It is amazing how quickly anaerobic power can be lost, while overall fitness and conditioning can remain constant. But again, I have nowhere to ride. Maybe I can scare up some errands? I'm feeling the need for a purpose.
Today we plan to put a bunch of junk up for sale on ebay and craig's list. I'm bracing myself for the onslaught of Nigerians interested in my for local pick-up only household items.
My moustaches arrived yesterday. I love Ben's Bike out of Milwaukee- they are excellent ebayers, and I highly recommend them. I might fool around with them today. With all my commuting as of late, I can hardly bring myself to take a recreational ride. Racing is finished, and just riding around seems almost pointless. At this point in the year, it is about transportation. My legs feel like wood after the 200+ miles ridden last week- all of it fixed gear. I would argue that it is more equivalent to 300 miles on a geared bike that coasts. My commute keeps my heart rate more in the fat-burning zone- not that I have much fat to begin with, but it is quite different than interval training that I try to keep up with during the race season. The irony is that I end up looking leaner and meaner well after April, when I could have really used it. Of course, this time of year I end up being like a diesel engine- all endurance with no top end. It is amazing how quickly anaerobic power can be lost, while overall fitness and conditioning can remain constant. But again, I have nowhere to ride. Maybe I can scare up some errands? I'm feeling the need for a purpose.
Today we plan to put a bunch of junk up for sale on ebay and craig's list. I'm bracing myself for the onslaught of Nigerians interested in my for local pick-up only household items.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Plotting and Scheming
The great debate continues. I sold my city/path bike to a coworker- one less bike to move. I never used that bike much. It was practically new. So I'm moving the rack to the Frankenbike. I'm contemplating panniers. Just dragging a six pack of beer to class the other night in a back pack was a bit of a, well, pain in the back.
Or, I'm comtemplating "touring shoes." My Duegi mountainbike shoes are walkable, but they are a little loud for polite company. I'm thinking maybe something a bit more discreet for trips to the store, errands, etc. Or, maybe I should by some hightop hiking boot-style mountain bike shoes. They would be a bit warmer in the winter. I wonder how waterproof they are.
Or, I should buy a less flashy, non-racing helmet. I currently have a Selev and Limar- neither of which I'd want locked to my bike. I should probably buy something less expensive for everyday errands. Of course in Europe, I'll look like a chicken-little even wearing a helmet.
If not a helmet, maybe I need better rain gear. Stavanger isn't the driest city on the planet. I plan to learn to love the rain. Rain isn't bad if I'm prepared. I am definitely not prepared for cold, winter rain- but hey, it is better than snow.
Finally, I need to figure out how to ship my bike so it is waiting for me when I arrive. 45 days is a long wait. I almost think it would be cheaper to buy a bike and sell it when my other bikes arrive. We experienced quite a debacle a year ago when a friend asked that we ship a baby jogger for her. The cost was outrageous through standard channels. We ended up using a shipping agent out of New Jersey.
The last thing I need right now is more stuff. Especially items that we'll fly with, rather than ship.
Or, I'm comtemplating "touring shoes." My Duegi mountainbike shoes are walkable, but they are a little loud for polite company. I'm thinking maybe something a bit more discreet for trips to the store, errands, etc. Or, maybe I should by some hightop hiking boot-style mountain bike shoes. They would be a bit warmer in the winter. I wonder how waterproof they are.
Or, I should buy a less flashy, non-racing helmet. I currently have a Selev and Limar- neither of which I'd want locked to my bike. I should probably buy something less expensive for everyday errands. Of course in Europe, I'll look like a chicken-little even wearing a helmet.
If not a helmet, maybe I need better rain gear. Stavanger isn't the driest city on the planet. I plan to learn to love the rain. Rain isn't bad if I'm prepared. I am definitely not prepared for cold, winter rain- but hey, it is better than snow.
Finally, I need to figure out how to ship my bike so it is waiting for me when I arrive. 45 days is a long wait. I almost think it would be cheaper to buy a bike and sell it when my other bikes arrive. We experienced quite a debacle a year ago when a friend asked that we ship a baby jogger for her. The cost was outrageous through standard channels. We ended up using a shipping agent out of New Jersey.
The last thing I need right now is more stuff. Especially items that we'll fly with, rather than ship.
Friday, August 26, 2005
White People
I responded to a post on a bike forum where some bozo was ripping on Mexicans riding on the sidewalks. I mentioned that I ride on the road, and all sorts of white guys tell me to ride on the sidewalk.Come to think of it, I've never been harrassed by a Black, Mexican, or Asian... only whites... and I am white. God I hate white people!
Long Week
Today's commute home was exhausting. It was mostly into the wind. I took a break and flipped the wheel so I could take it easy with the 16 tooth cog. Hopefully I can also ride tomorrow- weather permitting. This would be the first full week of commuting by bike. I'll have saved 200 miles on my car.
Last night I also biked to my Norwegian class. We actually have the summer off, but we still get together and mostly drink beer and converse in Norglish- that odd combination of speaking Norwegian until stumped by an unknown word. The class really brings a diverse and interesting group together- of people I otherwise wouldn't associate with. I'm one of the youngest students. We've been together for at least three years. Last night we met near Lake Nokomis. I followed the Parkway home in the dark- and it was very dark. This morning I noticed they had been working on the street lights. I really love riding at night. The city is so quiet, except for the frogs and crickets by the creek. My Niterider light system really does its job, and its name reminds me of the original Mad Max movie.
Today's training went very well. All the feedback was very positive. I don't proclaim any expert status, and it always worries me that I'll encounter some ringer with more initials after his name who knows more than I do. On the other hand, it sharpens my public speaking skills- the only way possible, and I actually enjoy the challenge of "being out there" and having to think on my feet. Today was a relatively small group. In a few weeks the show goes on the road and I train out of town. I think it is a package deal where some company pays $750 or $1000 or something like that for three hours. I wish all of my time were billable at that rate. All my down time that I put into developing this curriculum has really paid off- for the company at least. I have no idea what they will do with this after I leave.
Last night I also biked to my Norwegian class. We actually have the summer off, but we still get together and mostly drink beer and converse in Norglish- that odd combination of speaking Norwegian until stumped by an unknown word. The class really brings a diverse and interesting group together- of people I otherwise wouldn't associate with. I'm one of the youngest students. We've been together for at least three years. Last night we met near Lake Nokomis. I followed the Parkway home in the dark- and it was very dark. This morning I noticed they had been working on the street lights. I really love riding at night. The city is so quiet, except for the frogs and crickets by the creek. My Niterider light system really does its job, and its name reminds me of the original Mad Max movie.
Today's training went very well. All the feedback was very positive. I don't proclaim any expert status, and it always worries me that I'll encounter some ringer with more initials after his name who knows more than I do. On the other hand, it sharpens my public speaking skills- the only way possible, and I actually enjoy the challenge of "being out there" and having to think on my feet. Today was a relatively small group. In a few weeks the show goes on the road and I train out of town. I think it is a package deal where some company pays $750 or $1000 or something like that for three hours. I wish all of my time were billable at that rate. All my down time that I put into developing this curriculum has really paid off- for the company at least. I have no idea what they will do with this after I leave.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Sometimes I Just Have to Laugh
I woke up dreading work today. I am giving a training where people are coming from outside the company to hear me speak. People are paying money to hear me ramble for three hours. It wasn't my idea- I was more or less drafted to be the expert. It just all seems so pretentious. I might feel differently if I received a cut from the revenue.
My ride in was wonderful. It helped clear my head and help me focus on my presentation. There was, however, one odd glitch to my commute. As I was on my brief stretch of West River Road between the parkway and the Ford Bridge, I was riding off the bumper of the car in front of me, signaling a left to catch the bridge. I could see in my geeky mirror that there was an SUV behind me. I had room, although he was crowding me. It didn't make much sense, since there was a car in front of me, and I was riding the speed of traffic. Anyway, I stopped, did a brief trackstand, and turned left. I was met with a loud honk. I turned around and asked, "What?" as he pulled over. He looked like an extra from Hee-Haw, and he sounded like Scooby Doo as he yelled, "Muhghrgh jurghrugh mughgerth!"
I said, "What?" again, to which he replied, "Where are your lights?" I couldn't believe it. It was getting close to 7, and there was plenty of light. Half the cars didn't have their lights on. Mine were still on, since it was dark when I left and it is a pain to turn them off while riding. I flipped the bike around to show him the flashing tail light and said, "You mean this light?"
At this point I noticed he had handicap plates- not that there is anything wrong with that. He then changed the topic and told me to ride on the sidewalk. I told him the speed limit was 10 mph, that it was posted on the trail behind him. I pointed. I asked him to turn around to read the sign. He refused to look, but managed to get in the last word, saying "I don't care," as he sped off.
Here is the thing about this type of situation: he did not threaten me or endanger me in any way. I didn't ride away wishing I had handled the situation any differently. I had no revenge fantasies. I didn't even bother memorizing his plates. It was more amusing than anything else. Next time something like this occurs, I am contemplating responding with a "Jeg kan bare snakke Norsk," or "Jeg kan ikke forsto deg"- just to see the reaction.
Later, I spotted a woman riding a fixed gear with chopped and flipped bars along the Shepard Road Trail. I don't see that everyday.
My ride in was wonderful. It helped clear my head and help me focus on my presentation. There was, however, one odd glitch to my commute. As I was on my brief stretch of West River Road between the parkway and the Ford Bridge, I was riding off the bumper of the car in front of me, signaling a left to catch the bridge. I could see in my geeky mirror that there was an SUV behind me. I had room, although he was crowding me. It didn't make much sense, since there was a car in front of me, and I was riding the speed of traffic. Anyway, I stopped, did a brief trackstand, and turned left. I was met with a loud honk. I turned around and asked, "What?" as he pulled over. He looked like an extra from Hee-Haw, and he sounded like Scooby Doo as he yelled, "Muhghrgh jurghrugh mughgerth!"
I said, "What?" again, to which he replied, "Where are your lights?" I couldn't believe it. It was getting close to 7, and there was plenty of light. Half the cars didn't have their lights on. Mine were still on, since it was dark when I left and it is a pain to turn them off while riding. I flipped the bike around to show him the flashing tail light and said, "You mean this light?"
At this point I noticed he had handicap plates- not that there is anything wrong with that. He then changed the topic and told me to ride on the sidewalk. I told him the speed limit was 10 mph, that it was posted on the trail behind him. I pointed. I asked him to turn around to read the sign. He refused to look, but managed to get in the last word, saying "I don't care," as he sped off.
Here is the thing about this type of situation: he did not threaten me or endanger me in any way. I didn't ride away wishing I had handled the situation any differently. I had no revenge fantasies. I didn't even bother memorizing his plates. It was more amusing than anything else. Next time something like this occurs, I am contemplating responding with a "Jeg kan bare snakke Norsk," or "Jeg kan ikke forsto deg"- just to see the reaction.
Later, I spotted a woman riding a fixed gear with chopped and flipped bars along the Shepard Road Trail. I don't see that everyday.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Proof There Is Something for Everyone
Handlebar Moustache FAQ
I stumbled upon this site searching for info on moustache bars for bikes. I am contemplating them for my frankenbike, but I am not convinced they aren't primarily for freaky bike geeks with bad backs. I have a tendency to learn everything the hard way.
I stumbled upon this site searching for info on moustache bars for bikes. I am contemplating them for my frankenbike, but I am not convinced they aren't primarily for freaky bike geeks with bad backs. I have a tendency to learn everything the hard way.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Irreplaceable
I should be able to commute daily this week. Yesterday it really helped clear my head after work. All sorts of strange office politics have emerged since my announcement, and suddenly I appear to be irreplaceable. I wouldn't even want to follow in my own footsteps. I've never felt this important at work before. My leaving will mean a lot of extra work for several people, and it will probably take years for the owner to trust my replacement. Meanwhile, I have to fire an employee today and announce my leaving to all the program directors. Another fun day ahead of me...
Monday, August 22, 2005
Canadian Fishing Trip
We just returned from a trip to Lake Saganaga at the end of the Gunflint Trail. The trip was excellent. We stayed at a "resort" on a Canadian island about twenty minutes by boat from the public landing. The forest fires had mostly settled down by the time of our arrival. The accommodations were quite rustic- no electricity, except a few hours here and there from a generator. We had gas lights and a gas refrigerator, but no indoor toilets. I quickly learned it was better to water the trees or use the dock in the middle of the night rather than use the "outhouse." I had no complaints about the fishing- lake trout, walleye, and northern.
The lake was pristine. The water is drinkable far from shore, away from the duck and goose "droppings." The shoreline is completely undeveloped, except for the few cabins on the Canadian side. In rethinking it, I think all the cabins were actually on islands. The islands also appeared to be immune from forest fires.
I was amazed at how few people we encountered. It was certainly not like being at a "summer home" in the lakes region of Minnesota. We joined a couple of friends who are police from St. Paul. They have been vacationing at the lake many times. They introduced us to some of the locals summering there. Very few people live there all year, although I believe the folks who ran the "resort" lived there. The woman actually grew up there, and apparently took a boat or snowmobile to the landing, then had an hour and a half bus ride to school as a child. One couple we met worked at the research station on antarctica four months during our winter- the arctic summer. They had support jobs, since the researchers are usually only there a few days to a few weeks. They actually owned their own island in the lake, complete with a well-furnished cabin with a few guest cabins.
I don't know if there are some latent misanthropic tendencies in my psyche, but it was nice to be unreachable for a few days. I didn't mind skipping the showers, or having no cell phone- or any phones for that matter, no TV, no email, no internet, no cable, no radio, no vehicles except boats. People leave very small footprints in that environment. It was surprising how the place is maybe only five and a half hours outside the Twin Cities. It seemed quite close to be that "remote." We will definitely return.
The lake was pristine. The water is drinkable far from shore, away from the duck and goose "droppings." The shoreline is completely undeveloped, except for the few cabins on the Canadian side. In rethinking it, I think all the cabins were actually on islands. The islands also appeared to be immune from forest fires.
I was amazed at how few people we encountered. It was certainly not like being at a "summer home" in the lakes region of Minnesota. We joined a couple of friends who are police from St. Paul. They have been vacationing at the lake many times. They introduced us to some of the locals summering there. Very few people live there all year, although I believe the folks who ran the "resort" lived there. The woman actually grew up there, and apparently took a boat or snowmobile to the landing, then had an hour and a half bus ride to school as a child. One couple we met worked at the research station on antarctica four months during our winter- the arctic summer. They had support jobs, since the researchers are usually only there a few days to a few weeks. They actually owned their own island in the lake, complete with a well-furnished cabin with a few guest cabins.
I don't know if there are some latent misanthropic tendencies in my psyche, but it was nice to be unreachable for a few days. I didn't mind skipping the showers, or having no cell phone- or any phones for that matter, no TV, no email, no internet, no cable, no radio, no vehicles except boats. People leave very small footprints in that environment. It was surprising how the place is maybe only five and a half hours outside the Twin Cities. It seemed quite close to be that "remote." We will definitely return.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Miscellaneous Updates
The CEO is out of town- which is usual for summer. Yesterday, her assistant left a group voice mail on the administrative team's voice mail that we are having our meeting today, but that I'll be leading it. That fact that I'm leading the meeting should definitely have been left out of the message. Today is the day that I'm announcing that I'll be leaving the company. Of course, now my peers are paranoid, since we never have the admin meeting without the CEO, and the CEO always runs the meeting. Several members the "team" were asking me what the meeting was about. My sense is they are suddenly concerned that I've risen to an elevated position of power in the company. My answer has been a light "if I told you what the meeting was about, we wouldn't need to have the meeting" sort of response. If they only knew... and they will. They will be so relieved that the status quo will not be upset that they won't have a single care about my departure, until they realize how that alone affects the status quo. It is probably better that way. At least with the passage of some time, I'm a lot less emotional about the matter.
Back to bikes- I'm leaning toward downtube shifters for the frankenbike. It occurred to me that I could use a clamp on shifter, and that since I have no cable bosses either, bar ends would also require clamp on cable guides. I really want to keep this one simple. Also, I tested a 130mm wheel in the frame, and I managed to squeeze it in. My newest crazy idea is to use an extra Ultegra 9-speed derailleur- probably in friction mode. This should be compatible with all wheels. Total cost of the project should drop to $20.
Back to bikes- I'm leaning toward downtube shifters for the frankenbike. It occurred to me that I could use a clamp on shifter, and that since I have no cable bosses either, bar ends would also require clamp on cable guides. I really want to keep this one simple. Also, I tested a 130mm wheel in the frame, and I managed to squeeze it in. My newest crazy idea is to use an extra Ultegra 9-speed derailleur- probably in friction mode. This should be compatible with all wheels. Total cost of the project should drop to $20.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Weird Ebay Auctions
I rarely promote non-cycling websites, but this one is something else: Outrageous Ebay Auctions
Make sure you check out ARIEL SHARON-ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER-73 WAR HEAD BANDAGE
1973 WAR-AUTHENTIC HEAD BANDAGE!!! - and for only $10,000.
Make sure you check out ARIEL SHARON-ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER-73 WAR HEAD BANDAGE
1973 WAR-AUTHENTIC HEAD BANDAGE!!! - and for only $10,000.
"Un-converting" a Fixed Gear
With the impending move to a more interesting terrain, I'm contemplating adding a rear deraileur to my rain fixie. Also, we found out that the import duty for my car alone, will run in excess of $10,000 US- so it looks like we are selling both cars before we move. Obviously, this will also save moving expenses. Without a car, I'm also thinking of tossing a rack on the old black bike, and turning it into a frankenbike commuter. I'll probably keep the 42 chain ring and avoid a front deraileur, and toss a thread-on 7-speed in the rear. I'm guessing bar end shifters would work the best, since this frame has no down tube braze-ons. Of course it will have lights for the eternal darkness that is known as winter. Overall, it should be a very ugly bike by the time I'm finished!
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Writing My Own Obituary
I'm relocating abroad- in more than two months! As a courtesy to my employer, I spoke to my "supervisor"- the owner- last week to give her the "heads up." I didn't quote a date. I asked her to keep it quiet, since it is stressful enough dealing with everything without having to handle an interrogation from co-workers.
Earlier this week I informed a peer who will be greatly affected. Yesterday the owner called us into her office to discuss my exit strategy- to establish a plan for finding my replacement. I hated the conversation. I cannot imagine anyone else doing my job. I can hardly accept the reality that the company will function without me, although certainly it will. I really felt like I was at my own funeral.
Next week I'll announce at the admin meeting that I'm leaving. My wife suggested we hold a press conference- but accept no questions. I'm beginning to warm up to that idea.
Earlier this week I informed a peer who will be greatly affected. Yesterday the owner called us into her office to discuss my exit strategy- to establish a plan for finding my replacement. I hated the conversation. I cannot imagine anyone else doing my job. I can hardly accept the reality that the company will function without me, although certainly it will. I really felt like I was at my own funeral.
Next week I'll announce at the admin meeting that I'm leaving. My wife suggested we hold a press conference- but accept no questions. I'm beginning to warm up to that idea.
New Route
I took a different route home. I took Otto to West Seventh to Montreal and then Ford Parkway to my usual route after the Ford Bridge. It is more direct than following the river as it dips south. It probably shaved off close to twenty minutes from my commute. Of course, Montreal is a huge hill, but that keeps things interesting. Also Ford Parkway is a bit crazy to bike during rush hour, but that also keeps me on my toes.
While waiting for a light near my home, I asked a guy on a scooter if it was electric. He said it was- that it didn't need any gas. I tapped my bike, and reminded him I didn't need gas either. It turned out he lived almost across the street from me. We had a conversation about the neighborhood and our home sale. He was an interesting character. As we were talking, a group of kids were going door to door selling something- presumably magazine subscriptions. I don't know why they always use kids- it seems rather exploitative. It is worse than telemarketing.
While waiting for a light near my home, I asked a guy on a scooter if it was electric. He said it was- that it didn't need any gas. I tapped my bike, and reminded him I didn't need gas either. It turned out he lived almost across the street from me. We had a conversation about the neighborhood and our home sale. He was an interesting character. As we were talking, a group of kids were going door to door selling something- presumably magazine subscriptions. I don't know why they always use kids- it seems rather exploitative. It is worse than telemarketing.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
New Mirror
I must confess, Lise insisted on giving me a ride home after work yesterday. There was lightning. She was already at the office. I didn't offer much resistance. There will be no stories how I braved the elements in my man against nature quest to ride home.
While out and about buying a new hard drive last night, I picked up a "Take a Look" mirror. I'd always regarded mirrors as being completely geeky, but lately I have felt that I might as well use all the possible safety tools. At first, I couldn't really figure out how to adjust it, then it hit me. This thing is an engineering marvel! This morning I used it on my commute. It took a bit of tweaking, but now that I am more acclimated to it, I think I might find it useful. I still think it is geeky, but now I can literally watch my own back.
While out and about buying a new hard drive last night, I picked up a "Take a Look" mirror. I'd always regarded mirrors as being completely geeky, but lately I have felt that I might as well use all the possible safety tools. At first, I couldn't really figure out how to adjust it, then it hit me. This thing is an engineering marvel! This morning I used it on my commute. It took a bit of tweaking, but now that I am more acclimated to it, I think I might find it useful. I still think it is geeky, but now I can literally watch my own back.
Computer Woes
I've been quiet since our computer became possessed. As it turned out, the hard drive was in a spot of bother. A few months ago, it could no longer find either network card (and still couldn't as of its demise). The cards were invisible to the computer. I ended up using a spare USB network connection, but I hated that inelegant solution out of principle. About a month ago, the computer could no longer find the Windows registration file. Microsoft saw fit to make sure the computer wouldn't even boot up if the file was corrupt, so I had to speak with someone in India to restore the license. Of course, when I call back to re-enter it, they will probably send the black helicopters after me- or worse yet, they won't authorize the installation. I didn't even want to mess with it, so I am on my 30-day "trial" while I work out any potential bugs.
Installing the new hard drive solved all my woes. The trouble is, I had a huge amount of digital audio software, and it will be a huge pain in the ass to reauthorize all the crazy copy protection schemes. I've already lost an expensive plug-in that used hard disk authorization. All the challenge and response protection seems to be hardware dependent. I will need to search for all the serial numbers, licenses, and dongles. It will take hours.
This isn't the first time this has happened. I had originally used a high performance IBM hard drive that later became notorious for "the click of death." This happened at the exact same time the motherboard gave out. I was extremely busy at the time, and didn't want to deal with the hassle, so I took it to the Geek Squad and asked them to check the mobo and HD, since I suspected both- the PC wouldn't even post (which it should do even if the HD was bad). They told me the HD was bad and charged my something like $60 just to tell me that. I doubt there is a PC problem that I can't fix, and while at times, time is money, I will never go back to Geek Squad or pay anyone else to touch my computer. Of course that time, my replacing the drive didn't fix the problem, since the mobo was still bad. I didn't want to replace the board if it was working. Anyway, since I was one of three people in the entire universe that bought into RAMBUS when it came out, I had to order a mobo from Taiwan through ebay if I still wanted to use my memory. I found a hell of a deal, but they sent it by donkey- it took forever to arrive. Oddly, they shipped it in the original retail box that they had turned inside out.
My fear when the PC couldn't find the network card in recent weeks was that the mobo had gone out again. The blue screens of death could have pointed to bad memory. I wouldn't even know where to find RAMBUS these days, so I'd probably need a new board and processor as well. Regardless, the HD solved everything, although I have a minimum of software reinstalled. Fortunately, all the data was backed up elsewhere.
Finding a hard drive was a bit of an annoyance. Best Buy had 100 gig drives on sale for $49, so I stopped at the store down the street. Of course they were all out, but they had a 120 gig drive for just $10 more- I assumed the usual bait and switch. When I arrived home, I realized that I must have been living in a cave, because this new drive was not a regular Ultra ATA drive, but rather a Serial ATA- that requires a completely different cable/mobo connection. I returned it and located what I needed at another store. I've given up on high end drives. In the end, they are all crap, and they don't make them like they used to.
Installing the new hard drive solved all my woes. The trouble is, I had a huge amount of digital audio software, and it will be a huge pain in the ass to reauthorize all the crazy copy protection schemes. I've already lost an expensive plug-in that used hard disk authorization. All the challenge and response protection seems to be hardware dependent. I will need to search for all the serial numbers, licenses, and dongles. It will take hours.
This isn't the first time this has happened. I had originally used a high performance IBM hard drive that later became notorious for "the click of death." This happened at the exact same time the motherboard gave out. I was extremely busy at the time, and didn't want to deal with the hassle, so I took it to the Geek Squad and asked them to check the mobo and HD, since I suspected both- the PC wouldn't even post (which it should do even if the HD was bad). They told me the HD was bad and charged my something like $60 just to tell me that. I doubt there is a PC problem that I can't fix, and while at times, time is money, I will never go back to Geek Squad or pay anyone else to touch my computer. Of course that time, my replacing the drive didn't fix the problem, since the mobo was still bad. I didn't want to replace the board if it was working. Anyway, since I was one of three people in the entire universe that bought into RAMBUS when it came out, I had to order a mobo from Taiwan through ebay if I still wanted to use my memory. I found a hell of a deal, but they sent it by donkey- it took forever to arrive. Oddly, they shipped it in the original retail box that they had turned inside out.
My fear when the PC couldn't find the network card in recent weeks was that the mobo had gone out again. The blue screens of death could have pointed to bad memory. I wouldn't even know where to find RAMBUS these days, so I'd probably need a new board and processor as well. Regardless, the HD solved everything, although I have a minimum of software reinstalled. Fortunately, all the data was backed up elsewhere.
Finding a hard drive was a bit of an annoyance. Best Buy had 100 gig drives on sale for $49, so I stopped at the store down the street. Of course they were all out, but they had a 120 gig drive for just $10 more- I assumed the usual bait and switch. When I arrived home, I realized that I must have been living in a cave, because this new drive was not a regular Ultra ATA drive, but rather a Serial ATA- that requires a completely different cable/mobo connection. I returned it and located what I needed at another store. I've given up on high end drives. In the end, they are all crap, and they don't make them like they used to.
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