Training Week 2 - Ben

My Route (click to enlarge)

Since it rained all week, I knew that I was going to have to make up for not riding by really pushing it today. I ended up going about 25 miles I say "about" because I was riding Sarah's new bike and it doesn't have a computer on it. When I was finished, I measured the route I took by using photoshop's measurement tool on a map.

This was my first time riding a road bike. It took some getting used to. It definitely felt faster..but it was much harder on my wrists and neck. Overall, I think the discomfort is worth the light load and aerodynamics.

The first 10 miles were pretty tough because there was a significant headwind. Though, headwinds on the road bike seemed a little easier to manage because I was in a tucked position. The wind was coming out of the southwest, so once i reached umstead and started heading in a north-east direction, the ride became much easier. A special note to anyone who drives often on Edwards Mill road... LEAVE ROOM FOR THE BIKERS! I felt pretty unsafe riding on Edwards Mill road. The combination of a steep downhill, an unpredictable tail wind and heavy traffic was intense.

One I reached Crabtree Valley mall, I was feeling really good about how much strength I had left. I decided that instead of my usual route where I ride to Kiwanis park near five poitns and head home, I was going to go past it and try to make it out to Wake Med in east raleigh... somewhere during this time, I forgot about that vicious wind that was now behind me, but would be in my face for the entire (south-western) route home...

The bike path from Kiwanis park to east Raleigh is pretty cool. I had never been on it before. 50% of it is on boardwalks that overlook wetlands. I saw at least 10 turtles sunbathing in the water there... this is in the heart of the city, so I was not expecting that.

Finally, I reached Raleigh Blvd and decided to find my way home.. this is where I hit the wall of wind that had been at my back this whole time. I swear.. it took me as long to get from there to home as the rest of my ride did. It was a nightmare. But it's done and I feel good about it now.

Till next week.
Harris Out.

Sarah's new ride

Just bought Sarah this bike from Craigslist.. I'm slowly converting her into a skidmark..

Safety Tips - Ryan

Here are just a few safety tips I think everyone could use!

Race Wear Options - Nick

I'm thinking sexy...

Bike Safety - Ben

Lesson Learned, don't wear a creepy monkey mask while riding your bike like an idiot.

Recommended Watching - Ben

Share the Road: Tales From a Band of Gypsy Bikers

This is a great, motivating documentary that follows a group of bikers as they bike from Maine to Washington.. coast to coast. They even pick up a few riders along the way. Btw.. it's produced by a studio out of Chapel Hill.

Here's the Trailer

Here it is on Amazon

Race Wear Options - Ryan

I'm thinking simple...

A new bike for Ryan!

Ryan, I found you this bike. I hope you like it. You owe me $399 for it.

A Worthy Steed...

Whoa, that was grueling. Rode a quick mile or so on a dirt path/ATV trial. Almost collapsed on a hill. Wish I would have had my phone to take a pic though, people seemed to have lined the trail with random garbage. I totally used a beat up mattress as a tabletop and bunny hopped an empty toaster box. There was a christmas tree on its side that looked inviting as well except for looking like someone pooped in it. I'll take some pics next time. Might put a tetanus vaccine holder on my bike too, just cause ya never know. It's a jungle-urban out there.

On to more important matters, what should I name my bike? Old Glory? Butternuts?

Hmmm... I'll have to think more about this, more about this.

- Nicky Two Times

Rough Start

Ok, minor set back. Bike will not be ready for training until 3 - 4 weeks due to a problem with the front suspension air tube. Could put a huge dent in the training schedule. I have been notified that they will provide a loaner - but that's like cheating on your wife. Never a good idea and it messes up your ridding style.

Other bad news... Inspirational icon down, Live Strong is hurt: http://twitter.com/lancearmstrong

...but hey, after every uphill climb, there is always a downhill glide.

Nate "the chain" Spotz out.

Training Routes - Ben

Fellow Skidmarks, here is a map of the greeways in Raleigh. I'll be training on these every weekend until race day. Let me know if you want to meet up for a ride. The ride from downtown to Umpstead by the art gallery is a good ride.

Raleigh Greeway Map

Training Day 1 - Ryan

Well gents, today begins my official training. A few miles on the hobby horse, then straight down to the tavern for a few 5¢ pints with a couple chaps - Good day!

Sans Bike!!! - Ryan

My training will start sans bike. Much like Jesus, I shall run before I bike!

Getting in Gear!

I finally went out and picked up a new ride. My old beater was just not making my rides enjoyable.

I ended up at The Bicycle Chain in Raleigh off Glenwood Ave and walked out with a 2009 Specialized Rockhopper. Not exactly a road bike but should definitely be comfortable enough. The decision was between the Gary Fisher Wahoo and the Rockhopper and as much as I love the geometry of the Fisher, it couldn't compare with the smoothness and light frame of the Specialized.

It is a great feeling to be excited about riding again. Can't wait to put myself through hell! through hell!

Bike pic! http://twitpic.com/2czj8

Ben's first day of training

I haven't gone for a serious ride for about 4 months. Yesterday, I went for a 10 mile ride to Lake Johnson and back... it was not easy. The hill up Avent Ferry is no joke. My chest was hurting for at least an hour after the ride.. I think I need to start slower.

I'm currently riding a mountain bike. If anyone has a road bike for sale in the $400 range, let me know.

Welcome to the home of the Skidmarks

The Skidmarks are Ben, Nate, Ryan and Nick. Four non-bikers who decided to try and ride 100 miles for a good cause. We're willing to endure 5 months of training and 2 days of racing for a worthy charity - a cure for M.S. All we're asking from you is a small donation on behalf of our team.

Our team goal is $3000 by race day (Sept 12th 2009). With your help, we can exceed everyone's expectations. Click here to donate. You'll be added to our Fundraising Honor Roll and we'll give you a shout out on this blog!

We're looking for more team members. So if you're serious about it and willing to train, let us know if you're interested!