2500! Yeah! Not bad for starting in August.
I will need my other studded snow tire this week!
Ran some errands this morning, also. 23*F with shorts on. At least there was no wind. Dreading a week out of town for business without my bike.
Brrr. Sunday morning doughnut run was a bit chilly on the bike today! but boy oh boy was it worth it!
Annie and Todd!!! saw you brave souls out there this AM from the Commuter Bus!!! I hope you had a safe ride. Tomorrow or Thursday is a possibility for me! Ride On!
I will be falling off the back of the challenge when real weather arrives! 17 miles is too long for me to ride when I am afraid of slipping on ice! This has been such a great fall for us!
The weather has been mild enough that I'm still wearing shorts most mornings (I'm only on the road for 20 minutes), so I have bulked up too much. It only gets cumbersome when I have to bring the computer or my tool bag home for the night. The snow tires arrived today, so I'll be ready to go when I need them.
Underhill Center seems to have its own separate climate. This morning the roads were wet with a heavy dew and frosty in spots. Yikes! But as soon as we got on 15 all was clear. Kudos to all who are still riding. I don't know about you, but my co-worker was overwhelmed by all the gear I lug around to make it possible!
Yep! I would have ridden yesterday and today (took the new commuter bus) but the shoulder of the road was too icy and slick! looking forward to tomorrow and Friday and Saturday and Sunday warm weather for some long rides!
Brrr! The number of people tracking miles seems to be dwindling. It's feels great to see each of you still on the road.
"back in the saddle again"! Was a bit chilly this morning but beautiful. Ride on fellow commuters!
Thanks Gavin! I think I need some winterized lubricant----it IS getting tough. The worst part is that my brakes don't work well in the cold, it seems........
Yeah! Gavin!
can you say Flu! and even before I could get a shot. Well better now than later...actually better never but sometimes I have to pay the piper.
Cheers!
The Essex Sand Hill Road bike shop is Repairs by Mike at 760-7706.
They are just a cross from my resident street up there. I can check on the way home, Made my 4000 point target. :) That new lower bracket grease getting THICK and hard to crank! Sleet in the face w brisk cold west headwind this am. The wet rain ride home yesterday was "character building". Re: Cold n Wet. LJ's from now on.
Anyone know how to reach the bike shop on Sandhill Rd in Essex? Please and thank-you!
3965 points as of today. Going to get 4000 if I have to ride in the snow. Rode in today i the rain got soaked cold coming home. Will not be defeated on 4K.
I am also loving the new Jeffersonville bus! With the weather changing over toward winter's side of fall, and the increasing darkness factor, it is great to get some last one-way rides in!
Hi Gavin, Oh yes! Been ridin' Thanks to Old Spokes Home...Glen and Braden got her back together in a couple of days. All the bruising is gone and I am going strong!
Shout out to Steve Hall...congrats on reaching your 5000 points! If it was not for Steve I would not have been able to make the 5000 points during the challenge period. My own personal coach and bike mechanic all rolled into a spouse!
I am glad somebody posted a comment...I was going to anyway today but I did not want to seem "needy". ;-) Ride on as much as you can!
Oh yes took the bus today...the Jeffersonville bus! my legs were cycle tired but I get in about 7.5 miles of walking/running as part of the bus commute.
Anita
Anita, have that bike back in shape?
Woo hoo! 1400 miles that is awesome! congrats John Y!
The Bike Challenge was GREAT! I kind of fell by the wayside in September. But logged over 1400 miles!
Nick - I don't know how you are posting, but you could try removing a day, and posting through a different method to see if that works. Last year I had a similar problem, and fixed it by posting manually through the weekly screen. Just a thought as I know it feels good to get recognized for all the good effort! Jill
Good job getting to 5k, Anita! I hope your body recovers quickly.
So, I reach the 5k points and wait until the evening on Saturday to ride due to the harvest festival traffic in Jericho and then on the last mile of the trip I crash...not fall over but crash. Bike is in need of repair and my body is a bit of a reck. What a way to celebrate. Good timing if one is expecting to crash but I really did not need to have anything else happen this year. My fellow commuters there will be no miles for me on Monday since my ride is a bit bent out of shape. ;-) Ride on and hopefully the repairs will only take a week or two. Riding the 19 year old mountain bike to commute is just stupid at this time but okay for the back roads close to home so I was able to get some miles for Sunday.
cheers!
Thank you Steve and Randall!
4000 is nothing to sneeze at and 4k is really great!!!
I am very lucky that the weather held out, my spouse was participating too, my PT person Elise is awesome and patient, and my body held out.....my body is actually getting stronger each day!
Any points are wonderful. Cheers to you all and see ya on the road, dirt!
I'm having points issues as well. It looks to me that the 20 points per day ridden are not being awarded. For me i've ridden 15 days @ 40 miles in September. The leaderboard shows 600 points (15*40=600). I should have 900, which would be 15*(40+20) = 900.
Not sure the people who can fix this are reading the comments though. Anyone know who to contact? I see Endomondo has a help page here (http://www.endomondo.com/help), but i'm not sure this is a site issue... probably an issue for the administrators for the challenge.
Hey Randall, I know exactly how you feel. But work happens, bike parts break and life happens in between. Then I realized how few people cross 4000 points. Then I realize I have a great job, great bike, and great life! Congrads at "Cubic Zirconia" it's an awesome accomplishment!
And then there was Platinum.
Way to go Anita. Very impressive comeback after your injury and great dedication to commuting! Love ya.
I think the NBC WEB site is having a issue. Miles data entry seems to be ok but the points calculation are not working. It rectified itself later on when I previously had this issue. BTW ... Congrats Anita on achieving the 5K Diamond level .... I have only managed to hit the 4K points "Cubic Zirconia" level this year :-(
I think I'm having the same problem with points not being logged. And I'm so close to getting to 1000 points before the end of the challenge!
A nice brisk ride in this morning - 36 degrees.
the miles I logged yesterday would not take. Then I deleted them and tried to enter them again for the 25th and it still did not work. SO I had to log yesterdays miles and todays miles all on the 26th....did anybody else have that problem?
Anita
Keil, How are you doing these days? I hope all is moving forward for you!!!
Cheers
My point total hasn't been updated for miles I logged yesterday. What gives? C'mon, I'm working on Platinum here.
Logged my 1,000th mile today.
Seth, Waterloo is the home of Trek bicycles, so I expect the employees (not necessarily residents) are kicking up the town's numbers.
Hey all, I noticed something weird with the national challenge leaderboard for communities. Being from Jericho, I've noted that we are in 2nd position nationally for towns >5000 but less than 50000 population. The number one community is Waterloo WI which as far as I can tell from a quick google search has only 3345 people. What's up with that? Waterloo should be in the lower <5000 category and Jericho should be number 1. I'm obviously biased being from Jericho and wanting my town to win, but I thought I'd point it out anyway....
Nice day Saturday to ride the Maine Lighthouse Century Ride in Portland. Our 2nd year doing it.
Rode 2/3rds of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route this summer, was a bit sad that I didn't get online partway through so my miles didn't officially count in the monthly totals for july or august (I just entered them all today!) but still great to get lots of miles on the board. Great riding summer, hope to log at least a bunch in Sept to end it off right!
Sailor, you must have looked before it updated, I just checked and you have 194 points for Sept. Ride on !!
Found Subaru and house keys at the intersection of vt 117 and North Williston Rd.
Is anyone else having trouble with Endomondo recording their miles? When I upload from my Garmin the system defaults to "running." I change it to cycling and click upload and the rides save successfully but they are changed back to "running" activities. I edit the ride back to cycling but the points don't calculate for me. I still show zero for the month.
I spotted a cordless phone on my way home yesterday which was interesting. I find tools most of the time and I like to pick up the good useable ones. I found a perfectly good rear light one time and tire levers.
I thought the challenge ended in August, I am happy to still log my miles!
Rode the 'Dirty 40' this past Saturday in Derby; 40 miles on dirt, 20 on pavement and what an awesome race! Over 300 racers participated and hats go off the organizers, who apparently expected 50 racers to show. Brace for 500 next year! I know I'll be headed back to try to place higher. The Dirty 40 Rocks!
Congratluations on the Burlington criterium Amy Miner! We haven't met but I was there yelling my head off for you yesterday!
Oh yes speaking of weird things you see on the road whilst riding .... I saw a purple sparkly sex toy....hmmmm what is going on out in Jericho???? on route 15? Well if you are riding east bound on rte. 15 Jericho just past Browns Trace .. just be aware IT is out there!
Kris!!! Sadly I know about big hair and barretts popping off! I will keep an eye out if I go over Skunk Hollow way.
Kiel, I wish the best rehab for you to get you back and riding! May the pain of rehab be a welcomed thing for you since there is so much that is numb and non function. I surely do hope that I do not pass you in overall points and especially in the Team points for Commuters 'cause I know you are the king in that area and will in my mind be the inspiration to commute whenever and however far the ride may be. Best of luck and skilled professionals to work with you and I do hope that you can get back on the bike as soon as possible and that you can get back to do what ever it is you love doing in life! hang in there!
Kris: Sadly Royal Cycle in Essex close Sept --> Oct range of last year due to a lack of business. I miss having a local shop there.
Just wanted to give a quick update on my condition. Tumor is out now. I have limited motor function in my left foot, nothing yet in the right, and numb from the chest down. They'd like to send me to Spaulding rehab center in Boston within the next few days.
Thank you all for your support and good luck with the rest of he challenge. Im very proud to count myself among the Vermont bicyclists and I hope someday to join you on the roads again.
Best, k
Rode by twin discarded hypo needles on 117 today, which is a bit disconcerting. Also noted the largest dead frog I have ever seen ironed flat against the road on Skunk Hollow in Jericho---I could have nearly rolled it up and brought it home to use as a welcome mat! Any cyclers riding over this route, if you find my blue pewter hair barrette, I would love to have it back--biked so hard my hair got big! Anyone know what's happened to Royal Cycles in Essex?
Bravo to all the riders in this challenge. The shear numbers are amazing. Keep spinning those wheels.
KUDOS to the town of Jericho for repainting the line on Brown's Trace so there's actually a shoulder to ride on, from MMU north!
Kiel, Wishing you a successful surgery tomorrow, and a very speedy & full recovery. May your commitment to cycling give you the strength to recover, and join us on the road soon.
Kiel, Get well fast and get back in the saddle. You prove that people have no excuses for not commuting by bicycle to work every day....
Keil : There is no doubt you will win this health challenge and continue to be a inspiration for the rest of us. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Kiel, it sounds like you were "lucky" to have that cycling mishap. Perhaps without it, the tumor would have gone unnoticed and untreated. Let's all hope that things turn out well and that you're back on your bike soon.
Keil: hope you rock the procedure. You will be passing me again in no time!
Oh fellow commuter Keil!!! I am so sorry to hear about the Spinal tumor!!! What is in the stars that a group of us have been suffering through back/spine/nerve issues this year!
I wish a successful surgery, speedy recovery and that you are able to ride like the wind again! Mostly, I wish the best for you and that the mental skills aquired for long commutes on a bike can be directed to rest, recovery and healing. My best for you, Anita
Keil, Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Get well soon.
Keil, I look forward to your speedy recovery and return to cycling.
Kiel, Thanks for sharing so we can encourage you. I'm praying for you, too. Get well soon!
Hey Ace, your amazing mental and physical strength are matched by your kind and supportive spirit. Get well soon!
Kiel, I pray the surgery goes well and you have a full recovery. In the big picture, I hope this will become only a little bump in the road for you.
Keil, sorry to hear this, healing thoughts to you and best wishes for a speedy recovery, I've grown used to seeing you at the top of the list and know that I will see you there again soon. Best, Roger Bombardier Jr.
Kiel---best of luck for a speedy recovery. You are our emblem of bicycle transportation and a great inspiration.
sorry to hear the news Kiel , best of luck with your health and remain strong
OMG Kiel - I wish you the best of luck with your surgery!
dear bike challenge friends. it appears i am out of the competition. an incident on my bike earlier this week led to the discovery of a tumor in my spinal cord. i have surgery scheduled for wednesday, but i will be off the bike for sometime to come... i wish all the rest of you the best luck and look forward to passing on the trophy to this year's winner.
-kiel
I agree, Jim. Listening to coworkers in the DC area talk about their 40 minute to 2 hour commutes makes me appreciate my 12 minutes along Lake Champlain that much more!
Share with your employers: http://www.triplepundit.com/2013/08/biking-improves-employee-productivity/
Kiel,
How long is your daily commute? Mine's only a mile! I love comparing commuting times with co-workers at PA that drive much longer than I ride to work - which is about 5 minutes. They are so envious!
"From One Second To The Next": http://youtu.be/Xk1vCqfYpos. Werner Herzog directed short on texting and driving. Please watch and remember that we are owe it to each other to focus on the road. No more excuses.
Correction from my Colorado brother: Mt. Evans CO climb is 28 MILES each way! 7700 vertical feet. Danielson holds the recond 1:40 plus. It's a 56 mile round trip, all of it above 7,000 feet alt! Think Camels Hump stacked on top of Camels Hump, starting 3300 feet ABOVE the top of Mt Mansfield.
So its status quo. Thanks. NO way around grinding more miles! My problem, I get into the coditioning climbs, those are hard earned miles! Too bad the Range road isn't open through there and paved all the way! Or Toll road in Stowe maybe. Out west, we have beasts like Mt Evans, Hoosier pass, Loveland, Berthoud Passes. etc. Evans starts at 7700 feet (at the gate) and goes over 25K and 14,220 feet to the park lot on top. Ran into Levi Lephiemer (when he was Gerolstiener) up there in 2004. 6500 vertical feet and starts at well over a mile alt. THATS an elite training climb!
Gavin, If you log two "trips", it will double what you enter for miles. I'm pretty sure that you still only get ONE set of 20 points for each DAY you ride (plus a point per mile). No matter how many trips I make in a day, I always just log one trip, along with my day's total miles. You're doing it right.
Took a tumble and broke my wrist. Be careful out there!
Back on the bike! Feels good to be riding again!
changed a flat on the fly today on my way into work and then i got dumped on...it was quite an adventure :)
4-5 Ladies in the top 20...cool. Anita is pounding it. gotta do another late day long loop maybe Essex x 15 Morrisville x 100 Waterbury x 2 to Essex to catch up for good. Those 100K runs hurt. .
Age. Schmage. Good bike geometry tuning is critical too as you get older. Hey, question for the knowledgeables. "trips" are counted how? I log 1 trip for each days commute (that being IN to work then BACK home in the later PM w my xtra mileage loops. Been doing that all summer. Should I be logging "trips" as one IN and then another HOME for 2 daily? Totals and shape is all I really care about, but I was wondering if Im doing that right? G Good run in today! Tailwind?
Cycling seems like the only thing I can do right now without back pain. Usually my fault for forgetting my age and improper lifting and stretching.
WooHoo CCTA. Just saved from a busted rim!
Gavin, ditto on Jens Voight! and ditto on the snow storms and high passes. My spouse has quite a bit of experince with those conditions in Co. .... Me my experiences are the Sierra Nevada in Tahoe area.
Good on ya about the lilac bushes and sorry about the back stuff. If you are only 60 I know for a fact you are not the oldest out there! Not saying I am 60 yet but I know a few folks that are over that wonderous age.
Keep on riding when and where you can! AND may all the BACK stuff just cease!
Cheers,
Anita
Threw my back out playing golf. Haven't been on a bike all month! Not happy about that
Likewise on the 'motorists'. Little Men in Trucks playing "Let's see how close we can get" game. Screw 'em. I chased one down (and caught) on Grenbriar coming in this am. Made the 2500!! Did the four climbs in Underhill Center Saturday, uphill miles are hard earned. Had to spend Sunday w swarms of vicious VT black flies tearing out some old lilacs. ***Anita, yoga torso twist full length long and slow on floor, that lower back. After the heavy lilac lift PM Sun, I got stiff. This am, streched it out, feels fine, but same problem as you. I am OLD as the mountians, btw who IS the OLDEST cyclist in here? My 60? No way. Friday rainday was a FUN day. I had kids pointing from inside cars "Look at the "Crazy man" out there Mommie! I don't mind riding the rain. Just gotta respect the 23mm tires, slippery road features (white anything) the Idiots, take the game back a big notch on everything except flats. Yer not riding rain unless yer spittmg and sitting in sand! Try a sudden Colorado snowstorm coming off Loveland pass at 11,800ft in the 30's! I'm really gonna miss Jens Voigt.
The ride in today made me thankful for my Sks longboard fenders, they performed very well and minimized, to the extent, that is possible the amount of water that got on me & the bike. Now I'm putting the officer dehumidifier to good use :-)
@Jody- I'm noticing an increase of the "You're in my way" driving myself lately.
Hmmm, all dressed and ready to go then it starts to pour outside this AM....Radar was just a bit off this AM. Oh well I will try to catch a ride after work. So I said 5000 here I come unless I get hit...I should have added raining and flooding to the mix too..especially this year. Cheers to those of you who can commute safely in the rain!
@ John-
this has been happening a lot to me lately...i just try to take the lane if i can so that drivers don't really have the opportunity to pass...my ride is a mix of different roadways and paths so i can sort of create my route as i go
What do you guys do about drivers that pass too closely or otherwise honk and threaten to hit you?
One point!!!!! Oh Crap! ;-) doing better each day. Sciatic nerve being bothered by injured muscles in glut area...which we do not know at this time and at this point I really don't want to be subjected to an MRI to find out. PT is saving me for sure. Being on the Bike is the less painful position/activity for me than standing, sitting, walking or running....even sleeping. 5000 here I come unless I get hit.
Upgraded a week ago from 175 mm 53/39 Bontrager race cransk to Ultegra 172.5 53/39 with the Hollowtech II bottom bracket w the outboard bearings. Immediately noted better lateral stabilty, less frame flex, smoother cranking w better power transfer uphill and in TT position. I recommend this set up. 5 mm less diameter on the cranks, I'm 5'11", so 175mm was just a bit long. Better on the legs/knees for sure. It's me on the silver/black mid-2000's TREK.
One point Anita...One point... :) How is the back?
Dang, I've been biking for months and Shawn Keeley passes me on our company leaderboard by joining this week! He's a beast!
finally commuted to work today. 10.6 gorgeous miles (one way) from Worcester to Montpelier.
Can someone tell me how to change teams? I can't find it anywhere.
Have the most scenic commute...following the Winooski River and getting a glorious view of Camels Hump Mountain in the distance....never tire of this biking commute!
Ah Timothy, coming after the old & inured....hmmmm. ;-) just kidding. Go right on ahead and pass me in the rankings!!! it is all good!
Cheers,
Anita
I think I was right on your coattails for a while there, Anita.
Dang taking two weeks off work really set me back in the rankings!
Welcome Kiel! nice to see a commuter join the VT Commuter team.
Anita
This morning I rode on the bike path in Central Park, rode in the bike lane down 91st St to the bike path along the East River, returned by the bike lane up 89th St and did a final lap around Central Park. Cloudy and cool when I started, sunny and warm when I finished. I visited The Cloisters in the afternoon, but that was by subway and foot.
Hey Janet! Sounds like a great ride! Go Jericho riders!
Janet, sounds great! I've heard nice things about that ride!
A bit different scenery on my bike ride today! While visiting my son in New York City, I rented a bike and rode 25 miles on the Hudson River Bike Path. I saw skyscrapers, boats of all sizes, The Intrepid with space shuttles visible and lots of parks and green spaces along the river. The skies were threatening, but the rain held off.
Hi Anita, I'm back on today, new shiny wheel too.
Huge Bummer Roger!!!! I can totally relate! I hope you get back on the road/dirt soon!
cheers!
minor injuries and now a destroyed wheel have me on the sidelines, looking forward to getting back out there!
I rode from my house in Essex to Jeffersonville via Upper Pleasant Valley Rd...it was gorgeous, perfect weather.
Whats a vacation....50 hours a week. Sumday ill get a vacation.ride on :-)
Yes and yes, Jason. If you live in Vermont your "anywhere miles" count for Vermont. Vacation ride on!
Way to ride and inspire, Annie and Jill. I hope we get to hear more about your fabulous trips!
Is it reasonable, or allowed, to count miles ridden in another state toward my Vermont Bike Challenge miles?
I'm not used to being at the top of the monthly leader board, yet pushing toward 5,000 points is yet another incentive to be riding. At the moment I am touring around Lake Superior, getting lots of miles and enjoying some awesome riding. It's a highly recommended summer vacation.
Nick,
you can click in the "show" drop down list right next to the time frame drop down list and adjust the "class" of the town which filters based on population. The categories are pretty granular but it cooks it down a bit. I've noticed that Jericho is 2nd in the country for towns greater than 5000 but less than 50000 behind Waterloo WI.
Does anyone else think the "Communities" leaderboard is a bit... skewed? Because it's per 1000 people, very small towns get a big multiplier and end up near the top with only a few miles logged... Not sure how to fix it, just observing.
I've been missing the "freight train" in the mornings...of course you both may have been out there while I was out injured.
Best of weather and folks along the way of your 3 week tour...I am quite envious.
Have fun!
Anita
My husband and I are about to start a 3-week bike tour and are going to attempt to keep a blog. We already made a few entries about trip prep. Follow along if you'd like or if you are thinking about trying some self-supported touring.
http://annieandtodd.blogspot.com/
Annie
Commute in this AM was WONDERFUL! So far so good! I know I know not too fast in progression. Cheers
44.33 miles today. Including that jackhammer mess 128....All went well until I headed back toward Essex on 2A and met... The Dreaded Headwind...Caught up to a lady rider on US7 south from Milton that was gunning along, firing it on both cylinders. Nice riding whoever that was...you peeled off rt 2 toward the islands. FYA you got caught by a 60 year old, the "old man river"! No worries, don't think I could match yer pace much longer though!! I was about 30 into it by then. Guys in The Tour today did 242 K and ended with a nice 20 K climb up 8% Mt Ventoux. I don't feel so bad. A bit dehydrated...hot out there. No bears this time.
Nice pic of the milesytone, Kiel!
Woo Hoo Kiel! I too have some good news for the environment and for me....I will start commuting by bike again on Moday.....I can hardly wait to get out of my car!!!! Not all is totally healed but getting better by leaps and bounds!
Go Kiel Go!
Nice going, Kiel!
Wow ! Congrats Kiel. That's an impressive milestone.
15 months ago, when i started biking to work.
Congrats Kiel!
Go, Kiel! When did your 10, 000 mile journey begin?
I haven't been going as hard this year as i was last year, but this morning i hit a new milestone i'm pretty proud of. 10,000 miles on my bike. My odometer has apparently given up: http://i.imgur.com/gwAR8fY.jpg
Annnnndd. . .Platinum!
Essex-Colchester Point-Shelburne Point-Eseex. In the Friday mid-day HEAT. That'll make the pounds melt away....whew.
we put a little bike parade together and cruised down to the fireworks in the junction :)
To clarify : 1/2 to 2/3 of the pavement was missing on Gov. Peck in a few sections of the road, so down to a partial lane with possible undercut sections.
FYI : lots of popular bike roads are out in Jericho today
Skunk Hollow
Barber Farm
Gov. Peck
Plains Road
I got through Gov. Peck on a bike this morning , but 1/2 to 2/3 of the pavement was gone.
Rode yesterday afternoon. Got caught in a huge downpour on my way home! Soaked to the bone, but had a great time anyway. Ride On!
Ride when the rain is away....hot and humid.nice view of vermont.
Nice ride last night! No wind, perfect temp, great fireworks!!
Thanks Andy and Skinny Pancake! Now I'll have to say I seldom win anything.
Good luck and get well Anita!
okay my team mates I have just completed a whopping 1.62 miles unmounted on the commuter bike. huge :-D smile. I am contributing once again! 5,000 points here I come! be scared! Ahhh, just dreaming. still recovering slowly and cautiously.
Cheers!
Congrats to Janet (my teammate) who claims to never win anything!
My favorite is Range Road in Underhill Center. .75 miles at average of 8-9 percent. Couple laps up that will tell you whats going on. Don't mind the gravel. Makes the 8 mile
return run feel easy.
I saw a video somewhere where a guy made a bike float using 5 gal, water jugs etc, if you google it I'm sure you'll find it.
My favorite is Range Road in Underhill Center. .75 miles at average of 8-9 percent. Couple laps up that will tell you whats going on. Don't mind the gravel. Makes the 8 mile
return run feel easy.
I saw a video somewhere where a guy made a bike float using 5 gal, water jugs etc, if you google it I'm sure you'll find it.
So.....how does one attach floaties to a bike??? I think I missed that repair session. ;-)
Ha! Gavin welcome to my commute!!! ....and then the semi trucks coming head on too! don't forget them too!
It makes you stronger if not physically it will in tenacity!
Cheers
So.....how does one attach floaties to a bike??? I think I missed that repair session. ;-)
Ha! Gavin welcome to my commute!!! ....and then the semi trucks coming head on too! don't forget them too!
It makes you stronger if not physically it will in tenacity!
Cheers
How does head wind blow in THREE directions at the same tiime? Tacked on some post work laps in Essex, had headwind on every lap, every vector on that rt 15, Sand Hill, Al Martin Dr. 2.88 mile triangle.
How does head wind blow in THREE directions at the same tiime? Tacked on some post work laps in Essex, had headwind on every lap, every vector on that rt 15, Sand Hill, Al Martin Dr. 2.88 mile triangle.
Glad to hear you don't have a fracture, Anita. Listen to your body and the PT... you'll get better before too long. I know nerve pain can shut you down fast.
Glad to hear you don't have a fracture, Anita. Listen to your body and the PT... you'll get better before too long. I know nerve pain can shut you down fast.
so no fracture. PT time. Still no to little sleep...going on 3 days of that...can you say Zombie?? Thank you Gavin for words of advice. My ears are ringing as a result from going from a non medicine taker to Aspirin every 4 hours...it does help but trying to sleep with it is just unbearable. I would much rather be hiking or biking if I am going to be in that much pain!!! Oh well I guess if I have to go through something like this I could not have picked a better time weather wise. Thanks to all who are wishing me wellness.
Cheers
so no fracture. PT time. Still no to little sleep...going on 3 days of that...can you say Zombie?? Thank you Gavin for words of advice. My ears are ringing as a result from going from a non medicine taker to Aspirin every 4 hours...it does help but trying to sleep with it is just unbearable. I would much rather be hiking or biking if I am going to be in that much pain!!! Oh well I guess if I have to go through something like this I could not have picked a better time weather wise. Thanks to all who are wishing me wellness.
Cheers
I don't ride far, but I'm a steady daily bike commuter.
I don't ride far, but I'm a steady daily bike commuter.
Ouch been there. Bad aggrivated sciatica and l4-5 disc hernia. Sucks. Start w lots of anti-inflamatories, rest, get it calmed down. then start easy and continue doing yoga, w target on that lower back-sciatic nerve system. I went from the hospital to Mansfield Physical Therapy at Lang Farm got me back in shape pounding the r
oads with excellent results.
so I am awaiting the diagnosis to see if I have agrivated my SI or have a fracture in my Iliac or Sacrum or just an injured and very very angry Sciatic nerve.
Do not "fall over" on a bike at 56. Weird things happen apparantly.
I want to ride my Bicycle...but cannot even bear to deal with the pain it causes anymore.
Here is hoping I am not out too long, can get back to helping the Jericho figures, Team Vermont Commuters and my goal of reaching the 5,000 points by the end of September. The 5,000 points thing may not come to fruition if I am out for more than a week.
Cheers all...The thing that drives me crazy more than anything is that I have to use a gas car!!!!!!!!! Such guilt!
BTW Jericho riders---we appear to be posting at #14 nationally in the community rankings!
Sometimes I think that if I pick up every single bungee and tie-down I find on the side of the road on Rt 15, I could soon simply slingshot myself on my bike to work each morning....
Ouch been there. Bad aggrivated sciatica and l4-5 disc hernia. Sucks. Start w lots of anti-inflamatories, rest, get it calmed down. then start easy and continue doing yoga, w target on that lower back-sciatic nerve system. I went from the hospital to Mansfield Physical Therapy at Lang Farm got me back in shape pounding the r
oads with excellent results.
so I am awaiting the diagnosis to see if I have agrivated my SI or have a fracture in my Iliac or Sacrum or just an injured and very very angry Sciatic nerve.
Do not "fall over" on a bike at 56. Weird things happen apparantly.
I want to ride my Bicycle...but cannot even bear to deal with the pain it causes anymore.
Here is hoping I am not out too long, can get back to helping the Jericho figures, Team Vermont Commuters and my goal of reaching the 5,000 points by the end of September. The 5,000 points thing may not come to fruition if I am out for more than a week.
Cheers all...The thing that drives me crazy more than anything is that I have to use a gas car!!!!!!!!! Such guilt!
BTW Jericho riders---we appear to be posting at #14 nationally in the community rankings!
Sometimes I think that if I pick up every single bungee and tie-down I find on the side of the road on Rt 15, I could soon simply slingshot myself on my bike to work each morning....
Finally back in the saddle! I had a great couple of commutes, and look forward to a better riding schedule!
Finally back in the saddle! I had a great couple of commutes, and look forward to a better riding schedule!
Today was indeed perfect riding. Just wish my new brooks seat would break in before my ass becomes its own piece of leather.
Today was indeed perfect riding. Just wish my new brooks seat would break in before my ass becomes its own piece of leather.
That bike lane on Rt 15 Essex is something else, its so short, and its like riding on a race track to get to it, unless you ride on the sidewalk like I did.
That bike lane on Rt 15 Essex is something else, its so short, and its like riding on a race track to get to it, unless you ride on the sidewalk like I did.
Just perfect riding today. :)
Just perfect riding today. :)
Ed, be sure to refresh the screen after you hit the button I've noticed the number does not change until I refresh.
Ed, be sure to refresh the screen after you hit the button I've noticed the number does not change until I refresh.
Endomondo will not allow me to log my miles in?
Endomondo will not allow me to log my miles in?
Injured . . . . sucks! Somebody crank those miles out for me.
Injured . . . . sucks! Somebody crank those miles out for me.
That being said, often times it is the cyclist to blame. We like to run stop signs and ignore the rules of the road. Please be careful out there guys. This is another reminder that it is not just about how fast you get where you are going, but we have a whole reputation to uphold. Let this be a reminder to us all to follow the rules of the road, for our safety, the safety of others, and for the future of positive public relations.
That being said, often times it is the cyclist to blame. We like to run stop signs and ignore the rules of the road. Please be careful out there guys. This is another reminder that it is not just about how fast you get where you are going, but we have a whole reputation to uphold. Let this be a reminder to us all to follow the rules of the road, for our safety, the safety of others, and for the future of positive public relations.
Eager to blame the cyclists so many are, yet few or no comments on the over 40k killed by auto drivers in the US. The guy on the bike was probably negligent, but he is just one. A bicycle can be had on the cheap by almost anyone, thus you get a wide variety of rider some qualified to be out there and some not. I can buy a baseball bat today, does that make me a baseball player? Non-bicyclist are perfectly happy to differentiate between bad drivers, yet lump all cyclists together.
http://www.wcax.com/story/22589021/police-cyclist-at-fault-in-collision-with-car
The link above has a story about a bicycle and car accident. The comments about this accident is what the majority of non-bicylists think about anybody on a bicycle.
This is the way Cyclists are thought of by the vast majority of folks behind the wheel of a ton or so of metal.
My comments about stop signs and traffic lights that actually stopping at them... and let us throw in signaling and being "visual" while riding can help start to change the minds of drivers.
The cars always win in the end and that is the reality of the situation. I don't like it and will do my best to try to get better conditions for cyclists BUT in the mean time...the car always wins and the cyclist always looses.
My 2 cents worth.
Eager to blame the cyclists so many are, yet few or no comments on the over 40k killed by auto drivers in the US. The guy on the bike was probably negligent, but he is just one. A bicycle can be had on the cheap by almost anyone, thus you get a wide variety of rider some qualified to be out there and some not. I can buy a baseball bat today, does that make me a baseball player? Non-bicyclist are perfectly happy to differentiate between bad drivers, yet lump all cyclists together.
http://www.wcax.com/story/22589021/police-cyclist-at-fault-in-collision-with-car
The link above has a story about a bicycle and car accident. The comments about this accident is what the majority of non-bicylists think about anybody on a bicycle.
This is the way Cyclists are thought of by the vast majority of folks behind the wheel of a ton or so of metal.
My comments about stop signs and traffic lights that actually stopping at them... and let us throw in signaling and being "visual" while riding can help start to change the minds of drivers.
The cars always win in the end and that is the reality of the situation. I don't like it and will do my best to try to get better conditions for cyclists BUT in the mean time...the car always wins and the cyclist always looses.
My 2 cents worth.
Nice to be back in the Saddle after travel and medical issues, I got down into the 200s place wise but looking forward to a rapid ascent, fingers crossed and weather gods/goddesses permitting.
Nice to be back in the Saddle after travel and medical issues, I got down into the 200s place wise but looking forward to a rapid ascent, fingers crossed and weather gods/goddesses permitting.
Greg, I've not seen that one but think I should LOL.
Has anyone ever seen the Ray Bradbury classic story of the illustrated man with Rod Steiger? He tells three stories about the "skin illustrations" on his body. One story, The Long Rain, is about crash landing his space ship on a planet where a pounding, incessant, rain never stops. He's driven mad or close to. Sound like anywhere we all know? It's very compelling and terrifying and a lesson in fine acting.
Greg, I've not seen that one but think I should LOL.
Did anybody see the National Geographic Paper magazine photo of the "Round" elevated bikeway in .... Crap I can't remember the name of the city...near Amsterdam though. It was very very cool. Elevation that is the trick except for one thing all the car fumes rise instead of fall to the ground....Hmmm...but anyway it was really cool to see the picture. ahhh my dream a safe clean way to travel by bike, run or walk. I drive too but very infrequently. Cheers
Has anyone ever seen the Ray Bradbury classic story of the illustrated man with Rod Steiger? He tells three stories about the "skin illustrations" on his body. One story, The Long Rain, is about crash landing his space ship on a planet where a pounding, incessant, rain never stops. He's driven mad or close to. Sound like anywhere we all know? It's very compelling and terrifying and a lesson in fine acting.
Did anybody see the National Geographic Paper magazine photo of the "Round" elevated bikeway in .... Crap I can't remember the name of the city...near Amsterdam though. It was very very cool. Elevation that is the trick except for one thing all the car fumes rise instead of fall to the ground....Hmmm...but anyway it was really cool to see the picture. ahhh my dream a safe clean way to travel by bike, run or walk. I drive too but very infrequently. Cheers
Stephen-how about people riding against traffic? I say NO ;)
I have a custom when I ride of keeping in my head a tally of riders I see. I have a number of obscure and opinionated rules that I apply as to who gets counted, like no kids in neighborhoods, no adults on bike paths without helmets and, perhaps most obnoxious, I'll often skip recumbents (for shame!) What I'm really looking forward to is the day when it just doesn't make sense to count riders, because there are so many of them. The folks in Amsterdam would think it total silliness.
Stephen-how about people riding against traffic? I say NO ;)
I have a custom when I ride of keeping in my head a tally of riders I see. I have a number of obscure and opinionated rules that I apply as to who gets counted, like no kids in neighborhoods, no adults on bike paths without helmets and, perhaps most obnoxious, I'll often skip recumbents (for shame!) What I'm really looking forward to is the day when it just doesn't make sense to count riders, because there are so many of them. The folks in Amsterdam would think it total silliness.
Rutland County down here, just ran into another guy on my ride this morning. I'm not alone!
Rutland County down here, just ran into another guy on my ride this morning. I'm not alone!
Amanda, please feel free to give us a call at Local Motion as well. We'd be happy to help with your story. Jason -- 861-2700 x109.
Amanda, please feel free to give us a call at Local Motion as well. We'd be happy to help with your story. Jason -- 861-2700 x109.
Is anyone bike commuting in primarily rural areas? I'd love to have your input for a story I'm writing. [email protected] to pick a time to chat if you're interested. Thanks much!
Is anyone bike commuting in primarily rural areas? I'd love to have your input for a story I'm writing. [email protected] to pick a time to chat if you're interested. Thanks much!
I'm in the Upper Valley area, Tim.
I'm in the Upper Valley area, Tim.
First day without being on a bike in 40 days! Ahhhh! No bikes to be ridden in downtown Orlando Florida, though...Get one in for me in lovely Vermont this week everyone...
First day without being on a bike in 40 days! Ahhhh! No bikes to be ridden in downtown Orlando Florida, though...Get one in for me in lovely Vermont this week everyone...
Not me, I am up in the Essex, Burlington area.
Any of you from Southern/Southwestern VT?
I am wondering if the prizes were selected yet?
Not me, I am up in the Essex, Burlington area.
Any of you from Southern/Southwestern VT?
I am wondering if the prizes were selected yet?
Took a different route home tonight (to take advantage of the Cheese Traders garage sale) and saw a bunch of commuters on Dorset, Kennedy, Hinesburg Rd. and Williston Rd. Every one of them riding with traffic during rush hour and obeying laws. Lots of friendly cars, too. We can all get along!
Took a different route home tonight (to take advantage of the Cheese Traders garage sale) and saw a bunch of commuters on Dorset, Kennedy, Hinesburg Rd. and Williston Rd. Every one of them riding with traffic during rush hour and obeying laws. Lots of friendly cars, too. We can all get along!
Matt, I saw you WAY TO GO! I like your high vis gloves, I'm getting a pair.
Matt, I saw you WAY TO GO! I like your high vis gloves, I'm getting a pair.
Since my commute is my primary form of exercise during the week, I've started running one way and biking the other- its an interesting juggle of time and gear, and parts of Williston Road are no picnic, but It's working for me. So if you see a guy running on Williston Road with a blue and grey backpack, that's me.
Since my commute is my primary form of exercise during the week, I've started running one way and biking the other- its an interesting juggle of time and gear, and parts of Williston Road are no picnic, but It's working for me. So if you see a guy running on Williston Road with a blue and grey backpack, that's me.
Just found this site. Biking to work (some help from the bus) but during lunch it has been fun to bike around Lake Champlain. Better than eating two cheeseburgers at lunch time.
Just found this site. Biking to work (some help from the bus) but during lunch it has been fun to bike around Lake Champlain. Better than eating two cheeseburgers at lunch time.
Erwin, Snob has the best commentary in this topic. TGNYC is far far from VT. http://bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com/2013/05/are-you-keymaster-because-im-gatekeeper.html
Erwin, Snob has the best commentary in this topic. TGNYC is far far from VT. http://bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com/2013/05/are-you-keymaster-because-im-gatekeeper.html
Bizarre video editorial by Wall Street Journal Editorial Board member in which she is 'appalled" by NYC's new bike share program. WSJ says "The bike lobby is an all powerful enterprise." Video is not intended as a joke.
http://live.wsj.com/video/opinion-death-by-bicycle/C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D.html#!C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D
Bizarre video editorial by Wall Street Journal Editorial Board member in which she is 'appalled" by NYC's new bike share program. WSJ says "The bike lobby is an all powerful enterprise." Video is not intended as a joke.
http://live.wsj.com/video/opinion-death-by-bicycle/C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D.html#!C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D
I found some nice new pavement on Rt. 2 and 116 today. We need more!
Also found App Gap to be a scorcher of a climb. Bike computer read 103 F on the east slope. At least it didn't rain.
I found some nice new pavement on Rt. 2 and 116 today. We need more!
Also found App Gap to be a scorcher of a climb. Bike computer read 103 F on the east slope. At least it didn't rain.
Been slowly acclimating to my new Giant Escape and planning for a 52 mile trip soon at a rail trail in Northwest VT!
Woo! I love to cycle!
Roger B Jr., almost time for your return to the saddle???? You and your riding is missed.
Cheers!
Yes Erick, you got the word out before I could. I was texted that 15 was paved. Now 15 is better than ever! other than the semi trucks. Thank you Erick and all!
Cheers
Been slowly acclimating to my new Giant Escape and planning for a 52 mile trip soon at a rail trail in Northwest VT!
Woo! I love to cycle!
Roger B Jr., almost time for your return to the saddle???? You and your riding is missed.
Cheers!
Yes Erick, you got the word out before I could. I was texted that 15 was paved. Now 15 is better than ever! other than the semi trucks. Thank you Erick and all!
Cheers
@ Anita Hall and other Rte 15 Jericho riders. Rte 15 between Saxon Hill and Weed was paved today sometime. I rode it just now coming home from work.
Nice job adapting, Anita! I haven't been up there, but heard Weed isn't even a road anymore. Stay safe.
@ Anita Hall and other Rte 15 Jericho riders. Rte 15 between Saxon Hill and Weed was paved today sometime. I rode it just now coming home from work.
Nice job adapting, Anita! I haven't been up there, but heard Weed isn't even a road anymore. Stay safe.
TYPO!! only 9.3 extra miles per commute! My apologies for anybody put off by my error.
Cheers
Rte. 15 between Weed and Saxon is Knarly!!! BEAware!!! Going west kinda unsafe, going east Hold on and wait for traffice...you have to swerve out to Double Yellow line in a spot!!! I am now commuting Barber Farm Rd. from Jericho Flats due to unsafe conditions for commuting. An extra 19 miles in the day but at least I am safer and less Semi Trucks.
Cheers All!
Good on ya Heath! I sing this in my head when I ride my bike!
Cheers
TYPO!! only 9.3 extra miles per commute! My apologies for anybody put off by my error.
Cheers
Rte. 15 between Weed and Saxon is Knarly!!! BEAware!!! Going west kinda unsafe, going east Hold on and wait for traffice...you have to swerve out to Double Yellow line in a spot!!! I am now commuting Barber Farm Rd. from Jericho Flats due to unsafe conditions for commuting. An extra 19 miles in the day but at least I am safer and less Semi Trucks.
Cheers All!
Good on ya Heath! I sing this in my head when I ride my bike!
Cheers
"I want to ride my bicycle bicycle bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride it where I like " - Queen
"I want to ride my bicycle bicycle bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride it where I like " - Queen
It was a little bit brisk, but refreshing!
Yay sun!
Finally, some sun on a commuting day! It was only a week of rain, but it felt like a month. Enjoy the roads this morning. It should be a brisk but beautiful commute.
It was a little bit brisk, but refreshing!
Yay sun!
Finally, some sun on a commuting day! It was only a week of rain, but it felt like a month. Enjoy the roads this morning. It should be a brisk but beautiful commute.
Anita. I hear you. I was already to commute by bike today. Bummer. Swimming at the Edge will have to do.
So, 4 inches of rain and washed out roads and shoulders....Maybe I can catch a ride later today. Absolutely no commuting from Jericho to Essex Junction this AM.
Bummer.
Cheers to you all!
Anita. I hear you. I was already to commute by bike today. Bummer. Swimming at the Edge will have to do.
So, 4 inches of rain and washed out roads and shoulders....Maybe I can catch a ride later today. Absolutely no commuting from Jericho to Essex Junction this AM.
Bummer.
Cheers to you all!
Yay! Just crossed into the Gold!
Yay! Just crossed into the Gold!
Annie- I would love to explore that route. I often will ride to Underhill State Park and then back, but I would like to venture further.
Annie- I would love to explore that route. I often will ride to Underhill State Park and then back, but I would like to venture further.
Hey man!
Nice Jody! I took a cruze today to shelburne and was loving it!
Hey man!
Nice Jody! I took a cruze today to shelburne and was loving it!
Spent the day on the Causeway on Saturday for the first time, it was beautiful. We had a little picnic lunch out there too. :)
Spent the day on the Causeway on Saturday for the first time, it was beautiful. We had a little picnic lunch out there too. :)
By the way... Sheldon area is just gorgeous. My favorite riding is North of Underhill. Not much traffic, nice rollers and hills. Let me know if you want any route recommendations!
Beautiful ride today along Lake Champlain, Georgia way, over to St Albans and up to Sheldon, ending with the hills of Fairfax, Fletcher, Cambridge. Fantastic tail wind and cool temps. And... my husband and I finally got to ride together. So fun to do some serious drafting.
I finally made it to lancaster NH and back :-)
By the way... Sheldon area is just gorgeous. My favorite riding is North of Underhill. Not much traffic, nice rollers and hills. Let me know if you want any route recommendations!
Beautiful ride today along Lake Champlain, Georgia way, over to St Albans and up to Sheldon, ending with the hills of Fairfax, Fletcher, Cambridge. Fantastic tail wind and cool temps. And... my husband and I finally got to ride together. So fun to do some serious drafting.
I finally made it to lancaster NH and back :-)
Nuthing like bad roads in saint johnsbury to ruin a great ride. Other then that i love going out on a long solo ride and seeing the country.:-) if anyone want to join me for a ride hit me up in here and ask me.ciao for now
Nuthing like bad roads in saint johnsbury to ruin a great ride. Other then that i love going out on a long solo ride and seeing the country.:-) if anyone want to join me for a ride hit me up in here and ask me.ciao for now
Took the scenic route home from work today -- over Smuggs Notch. Beautiful tail wind from Winooski to Waterbury -- Yahooooie!
Took the scenic route home from work today -- over Smuggs Notch. Beautiful tail wind from Winooski to Waterbury -- Yahooooie!
I almost got taken out by a car door on King Street today, in the future I will have to ride down the middle of the road so I don't see my life flash in front of my eyes, it was a close one!
I almost got taken out by a car door on King Street today, in the future I will have to ride down the middle of the road so I don't see my life flash in front of my eyes, it was a close one!
Can't wait to ride in this weather!
I love all the comments that keep us all riding. Vermont is tops!
Can't wait to ride in this weather!
I love all the comments that keep us all riding. Vermont is tops!
I'm 60 and I can do it...what's YOUR excuse? :)
Trying to get people to join but they get completely lost and confused at Endomondo? Here's a quick tutorial I made for someone. I figure you can use it to.
If you're telling them so they can join your team be sure to tell them to stop at step 6.
http://thoughtfaucet.com/join-the-national-bike-challenge-and-btv-digirati-team/
I hear you Chris, will be joining you soon, I have to be off the bike for 2 weeks, medical.
I'm 60 and I can do it...what's YOUR excuse? :)
Trying to get people to join but they get completely lost and confused at Endomondo? Here's a quick tutorial I made for someone. I figure you can use it to.
If you're telling them so they can join your team be sure to tell them to stop at step 6.
http://thoughtfaucet.com/join-the-national-bike-challenge-and-btv-digirati-team/
I hear you Chris, will be joining you soon, I have to be off the bike for 2 weeks, medical.
We'll all be chasing you again soon, Chris!
We'll all be chasing you again soon, Chris!
Slowly sinking towards the bottom of the leaderboard :-(
Slowly sinking towards the bottom of the leaderboard :-(
yup I use full fenders, want to keep the road kill and auto juice off me.
yup I use full fenders, want to keep the road kill and auto juice off me.
Rode in Boulder last weekend and I left a little jealous - amazing biking opportunities right at the edge of town and into the Flatirons. Today I rode from Burlington to Bristol and back, and I am glad to say that the jealousy is gone. Vermont is bike heaven!
Rode in Boulder last weekend and I left a little jealous - amazing biking opportunities right at the edge of town and into the Flatirons. Today I rode from Burlington to Bristol and back, and I am glad to say that the jealousy is gone. Vermont is bike heaven!
Tara, love that! That's the way I feel every time!
Tara, love that! That's the way I feel every time!
Take that, Depot Street. Take.THAT!
Take that, Depot Street. Take.THAT!
Ditto on the fenders. The right equipment goes a long way!
Jason,
Yes, you can! What matters is where you live (i.e., the zipcode you entered when you registered), NOT where you ride. Miles anywhere in the world count for your town, your team, your workplace, and for Vermont. So log those miles!
Best,
Jason at Local Motion
I am riding the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route in June. Can I log those miles?
Ditto on the fenders. The right equipment goes a long way!
Jason,
Yes, you can! What matters is where you live (i.e., the zipcode you entered when you registered), NOT where you ride. Miles anywhere in the world count for your town, your team, your workplace, and for Vermont. So log those miles!
Best,
Jason at Local Motion
Fenders will change your life.
I am riding the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route in June. Can I log those miles?
Yea it was fairly warm, my only "beef" with rain riding is the beating the bike takes, and that some driver act like they are having a harder time seeing cyclists.
Rainy ride in wasn't so bad this morning.
Fenders will change your life.
Loving the riding conditions today and the apple trees.
Yea it was fairly warm, my only "beef" with rain riding is the beating the bike takes, and that some driver act like they are having a harder time seeing cyclists.
Rainy ride in wasn't so bad this morning.
Loving the riding conditions today and the apple trees.
Cathy,
Teams are actually open to anyone. They are affiliated with the workplace of the team captain (i.e., the person who founded the team), but anyone can join.
Best,
Jason at Local Motion
Hey, maybe someone can help me. I made a team, The Hinesburgers, and I intended it as for anyone who lives in Hinesburg. But it seems to be saying it is an internal team for UVM, simply because I made the team and I work at UVM. But that's not what I intended. How do I fix that?
Cathy,
Teams are actually open to anyone. They are affiliated with the workplace of the team captain (i.e., the person who founded the team), but anyone can join.
Best,
Jason at Local Motion
Cathy: In the upper left you can toggle between "Local" and "National" and that will get you to the national rankings. But you might as well focus on local because VT will again obliterate everyone else.
Best part is, since we have hills, no one can accuse of having it easy.
There's a Budnitz in this silent benefit auction. http://auction.lcwaldorf.org/items/show/2khN5jkACjtGJWi Starting bid is will below retail.
For any Hinesburg residents - I felt like being on a team, so I created a team called "The Hinesburgers". Feel free to join if you live in Hinesburg!
Hey, maybe someone can help me. I made a team, The Hinesburgers, and I intended it as for anyone who lives in Hinesburg. But it seems to be saying it is an internal team for UVM, simply because I made the team and I work at UVM. But that's not what I intended. How do I fix that?
Hi everybody. I'm new here on this website. How do these comments work? It seems like we're just seeing Vermonters' comments? Just people in the Burlington area or what? Anyway, here's my story. I live in Hinesburg and work at UVM. 14.1 HILLY miles, but very scenic. For several years I've been commuting once or twice a week on a bike with an electric-assist motor (it's still work for me, but easier). The bike is crap and rusting, so I was considering upgrading to a better electric bike. But since there is now a bus to Hinesburg, I decided to upgrade to a road bike (I also have a mountain/hybrid bike) and I can put the bike on the bus for the ride to work and just ride home. Maybe once I'm in better shape, I can do both directions in one day.
One rationalization that I have made for years is passing cars on the right, turns out it may not be illegal, depending on how you read the law. I do it slowly and carefully in a line of traffic in order to get up to the light/sign where I wait my legal turn once there. I figure I'm safer for a number of reasons plus I breath less exhaust. Further reading for you at 23 V.S.A s.1034 & 2301.
Daniel, one thing that you need to know about using the pedestrian signal to cross the intersection (apart from the illegality) is that you do not have the legal protection that a pedestrian does because you are on a vehicle. Further you cannot legally ride your bike inside a pedestrian crosswalk (the kind with the white stripes) even if it is part of a bike path, as I learned last year. Example at UVM we have a nice bike/ped path that has the “bike path” signs and everything that proceeds from the Davis center down toward the green and crosses University Place. During the crosswalk that crosses University place you are technically expected to dismount your bicycle and walk it across the street and remount on the other side or ride around that area.
I must disagree with you Amanda, indeed the rules were mostly made for cars, because like it or not they are the dominant presence on the roads and we have to play by those rules and by the lowest common denominator. Sure we have better visibility, but so do motorcyclists and they could begin to make the same argument that you have. The motor vehicle rules do not fit perfectly, but when it comes to intersections everyone can see you (and vice versa) and it is admittedly political but it really pays both in terms of safety and politics to treat those as sacrosanct. Are there rationalizations that cyclists make to be practical? sure But blowing stop signs/lights need not be one of them and generates a lot of bad will towards cyclists.
I generally agree with you Anita. However, the current traffic lights, stops signs, and intersections (in VT, but some places are adapting) have been designed for cars not bikes and cars. This needs to change.
Also I agree with Damon, when there is an empty intersection, or when a walk signal is going, I feel it is ok for bikes to make there way through reds. A lot of time it is actually safer so bikes can get out ahead of traffic instead of churning in the lineup between cars.
I think it's actually problematic to expect cyclists to follow the exact same rules as cars. The rules are made for cars, not bikes, and cities that emphasize cycling as a viable form of transport recognize that difference. When I approach a stop sign intersection, because I have much better visibility all around, I can see if a car is coming or not. I don't think that I need to stop if i don't see a car, and lose all the momentum I worked very hard for. I'm not advocating being a jerk, I just think the most important thing as a cyclist is to ride predictably rather than exactly as if you are a car. We aren't cars, and I know the laws so far act as if any vehicle ought to behave like a car, but they can change to enable more efficient cycling--we just need to make that happen! I don't think you deserve to be written off as a "bad" cyclist for running an empty stop sign intersection, or even a red light when there's no cars. Plus, the risk is really all the cyclist's if you misjudge, so the stakes are higher when you behave like a so-called "bad" cyclist. Darwin!
Cathy: In the upper left you can toggle between "Local" and "National" and that will get you to the national rankings. But you might as well focus on local because VT will again obliterate everyone else.
Best part is, since we have hills, no one can accuse of having it easy.
There's a Budnitz in this silent benefit auction. http://auction.lcwaldorf.org/items/show/2khN5jkACjtGJWi Starting bid is will below retail.
Thank you Anita. I bike from Essex Junction to Burlington almost every weekday. I wish cars would be concerned about my safety and bikers would be concerned about my safety. Bikers who run red lights and stop signs make it so cars do not know how to react when they see a biker come to an intersection. I often stop and wait for a car to finally go. Not to say cars are always in the right I get cut off daily by cars who speed past me just so they can turn right in front of me. I would also say that more thought should be put into this discussion than “just follow the rules.” It is much harder for the operator to get a bike moving again than a car so if I come to an empty intersection I will slow down look in all directions and proceed. We need more bikers out there so car drivers can become more aware and comfortable with sharing the road with bikers.
For any Hinesburg residents - I felt like being on a team, so I created a team called "The Hinesburgers". Feel free to join if you live in Hinesburg!
Hi everybody. I'm new here on this website. How do these comments work? It seems like we're just seeing Vermonters' comments? Just people in the Burlington area or what? Anyway, here's my story. I live in Hinesburg and work at UVM. 14.1 HILLY miles, but very scenic. For several years I've been commuting once or twice a week on a bike with an electric-assist motor (it's still work for me, but easier). The bike is crap and rusting, so I was considering upgrading to a better electric bike. But since there is now a bus to Hinesburg, I decided to upgrade to a road bike (I also have a mountain/hybrid bike) and I can put the bike on the bus for the ride to work and just ride home. Maybe once I'm in better shape, I can do both directions in one day.
One rationalization that I have made for years is passing cars on the right, turns out it may not be illegal, depending on how you read the law. I do it slowly and carefully in a line of traffic in order to get up to the light/sign where I wait my legal turn once there. I figure I'm safer for a number of reasons plus I breath less exhaust. Further reading for you at 23 V.S.A s.1034 & 2301.
Daniel, one thing that you need to know about using the pedestrian signal to cross the intersection (apart from the illegality) is that you do not have the legal protection that a pedestrian does because you are on a vehicle. Further you cannot legally ride your bike inside a pedestrian crosswalk (the kind with the white stripes) even if it is part of a bike path, as I learned last year. Example at UVM we have a nice bike/ped path that has the “bike path” signs and everything that proceeds from the Davis center down toward the green and crosses University Place. During the crosswalk that crosses University place you are technically expected to dismount your bicycle and walk it across the street and remount on the other side or ride around that area.
I must disagree with you Amanda, indeed the rules were mostly made for cars, because like it or not they are the dominant presence on the roads and we have to play by those rules and by the lowest common denominator. Sure we have better visibility, but so do motorcyclists and they could begin to make the same argument that you have. The motor vehicle rules do not fit perfectly, but when it comes to intersections everyone can see you (and vice versa) and it is admittedly political but it really pays both in terms of safety and politics to treat those as sacrosanct. Are there rationalizations that cyclists make to be practical? sure But blowing stop signs/lights need not be one of them and generates a lot of bad will towards cyclists.
I generally agree with you Anita. However, the current traffic lights, stops signs, and intersections (in VT, but some places are adapting) have been designed for cars not bikes and cars. This needs to change.
Also I agree with Damon, when there is an empty intersection, or when a walk signal is going, I feel it is ok for bikes to make there way through reds. A lot of time it is actually safer so bikes can get out ahead of traffic instead of churning in the lineup between cars.
I think it's actually problematic to expect cyclists to follow the exact same rules as cars. The rules are made for cars, not bikes, and cities that emphasize cycling as a viable form of transport recognize that difference. When I approach a stop sign intersection, because I have much better visibility all around, I can see if a car is coming or not. I don't think that I need to stop if i don't see a car, and lose all the momentum I worked very hard for. I'm not advocating being a jerk, I just think the most important thing as a cyclist is to ride predictably rather than exactly as if you are a car. We aren't cars, and I know the laws so far act as if any vehicle ought to behave like a car, but they can change to enable more efficient cycling--we just need to make that happen! I don't think you deserve to be written off as a "bad" cyclist for running an empty stop sign intersection, or even a red light when there's no cars. Plus, the risk is really all the cyclist's if you misjudge, so the stakes are higher when you behave like a so-called "bad" cyclist. Darwin!
Thank you Anita. I bike from Essex Junction to Burlington almost every weekday. I wish cars would be concerned about my safety and bikers would be concerned about my safety. Bikers who run red lights and stop signs make it so cars do not know how to react when they see a biker come to an intersection. I often stop and wait for a car to finally go. Not to say cars are always in the right I get cut off daily by cars who speed past me just so they can turn right in front of me. I would also say that more thought should be put into this discussion than “just follow the rules.” It is much harder for the operator to get a bike moving again than a car so if I come to an empty intersection I will slow down look in all directions and proceed. We need more bikers out there so car drivers can become more aware and comfortable with sharing the road with bikers.
Glad to be back pedaling miles.
Anita - you say it so well. And you challenge bike riders who don't follow the simple rules of the raod? We should all do that.
"Give respect - Get respect"
Glad to be back pedaling miles.
Great to be a member of the Lyndon Bike Team. Harry Mueller
Anita - you say it so well. And you challenge bike riders who don't follow the simple rules of the raod? We should all do that.
"Give respect - Get respect"
Good on you Anita E. Hall, I agree with you and hope that they get the message.
Great to be a member of the Lyndon Bike Team. Harry Mueller
To fellow cyclists, especially the 3 guys who commute in Essex Jct. and Essex Center areas...Please stop at the stop signs and stop lights when riding. It has been 5 years of me conversing that one is to stop at stop signs and stop lights(when red) with these 3 guys and 5 years later they continue. I cannot begin to say what kind of influence you are imposing on drivers, children and other cyclists on what a bad cyclist looks like. I beg that everybody just stop and then proceed when safe. What you practice in your car is what you practice on your bike...what you practice on your bike you practice in your car...and yes I have had many vehicles run the stop signs and stop lights because they felt that no cars around why stop?
The Commuter B!tch will no longer call you out do to concern for your safety. Good luck because I am just over it. I just wish that there was some sort of support from fellow cyclists for being a safe, fast and polite cyclist instead of being called a B!tch all the time.
I always thought that points should be awarded by time spent in the saddle, but that's only because i can't afford a fancy road bike :P
Good on you Anita E. Hall, I agree with you and hope that they get the message.
To fellow cyclists, especially the 3 guys who commute in Essex Jct. and Essex Center areas...Please stop at the stop signs and stop lights when riding. It has been 5 years of me conversing that one is to stop at stop signs and stop lights(when red) with these 3 guys and 5 years later they continue. I cannot begin to say what kind of influence you are imposing on drivers, children and other cyclists on what a bad cyclist looks like. I beg that everybody just stop and then proceed when safe. What you practice in your car is what you practice on your bike...what you practice on your bike you practice in your car...and yes I have had many vehicles run the stop signs and stop lights because they felt that no cars around why stop?
The Commuter B!tch will no longer call you out do to concern for your safety. Good luck because I am just over it. I just wish that there was some sort of support from fellow cyclists for being a safe, fast and polite cyclist instead of being called a B!tch all the time.
I always thought that points should be awarded by time spent in the saddle, but that's only because i can't afford a fancy road bike :P
Hey Richard, Finally got a photo posted!!!!
I disagree, by commuting on my bike instead of my car I am saving carbon and money. Mountain biking is sport riding, which is great, but does not take the place of driving a car.Which is worth more?
Hey Richard, Finally got a photo posted!!!!
I disagree, by commuting on my bike instead of my car I am saving carbon and money. Mountain biking is sport riding, which is great, but does not take the place of driving a car.Which is worth more?
Yup Cody, I take your point, the intensity of off-road in terms of physical effort and training is definitely a different and more demanding thing.
Yup Cody, I take your point, the intensity of off-road in terms of physical effort and training is definitely a different and more demanding thing.
Mountain biking miles should be worth 2X road biking miles:)
Mountain biking miles should be worth 2X road biking miles:)
Hi Jason,
You're on my team! We want to make sure to capture every point! It's important that your email address attached to your endomondo program is the same one that you used to sign up for the bike challenge.
Lauri
Hi Jason,
You're on my team! We want to make sure to capture every point! It's important that your email address attached to your endomondo program is the same one that you used to sign up for the bike challenge.
Lauri
thumb me in!
thumb me in!
I joined a team, but my miles don't seem to be counting toward the team total.
I joined a team, but my miles don't seem to be counting toward the team total.
John,
People can name teams whatever they like, and some folks have chosen to create teams with the name of their workplace. It ends up being a bit duplicative (since workplaces show up automatically on their own leaderboard), but if that's what gets people riding, all the better!
Jason at Local Motion
What's up with all the workplaces that are teams instead? Seems like a bit of a disconnect there...
Regardless, way to go keeping us in first place nationally! Keep it up biker gang!
Let's All Reduce Our CO2 Impact By Bike Riding To/From Work During The Months of . . . May 2013, June 2013, July 2013, August 2013, and so on. We can all do it!! :-)
John,
People can name teams whatever they like, and some folks have chosen to create teams with the name of their workplace. It ends up being a bit duplicative (since workplaces show up automatically on their own leaderboard), but if that's what gets people riding, all the better!
Jason at Local Motion
What's up with all the workplaces that are teams instead? Seems like a bit of a disconnect there...
Regardless, way to go keeping us in first place nationally! Keep it up biker gang!
Let's All Reduce Our CO2 Impact By Bike Riding To/From Work During The Months of . . . May 2013, June 2013, July 2013, August 2013, and so on. We can all do it!! :-)
Ughhhh . . . waylaid by an untrue wheel. . .
That's great David!
Ughhhh . . . waylaid by an untrue wheel. . .
That's great David!
If anyone is a Facebook member and interested in more Networking with Vermont bicycling commuters, we have a facebook group called "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" cheers! Roger
What a week to launch the Challenge!! Woohooo! I wish I could have made the launch with the mayor.
If anyone is a Facebook member and interested in more Networking with Vermont bicycling commuters, we have a facebook group called "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" cheers! Roger
What a week to launch the Challenge!! Woohooo! I wish I could have made the launch with the mayor.
Just joined Perkins Fitness, a new gym in South Burlington and will be riding in for my regular workouts there. plus riding to the 350VT office. pumped for this challenge! .
Just joined Perkins Fitness, a new gym in South Burlington and will be riding in for my regular workouts there. plus riding to the 350VT office. pumped for this challenge! .
Lois -- your email address is your unique login. Each person has to have a different email address in order to participate. There's no way around it. You can easily create a gmail address for the second person.
Why can't I join two riders with the same email address?
Lois -- your email address is your unique login. Each person has to have a different email address in order to participate. There's no way around it. You can easily create a gmail address for the second person.
Why can't I join two riders with the same email address?
Weather permiting I start commuting by bicycle at least once/week tomorrow, 5/1/13!
Weather permiting I start commuting by bicycle at least once/week tomorrow, 5/1/13!
Welcome Anita great to have you aboard!
Welcome Anita great to have you aboard!
I hope that there is a good attendance at the May 1 Burlington event. I cannot attend. I commute to work from North Avenue near Leddy Park to Essex Town 14.1 miles 1 way.
I will not be free at the noon hour to attend this event. I will join the BTV team today.
Roger, I commute from Jericho to EJ so I have joined the VT Bicycle Commuter team. Sorry Gahlord but I do nothing with Burlington except maybe visit once a month if that much. I know there are plenty of cyclists in BTV to join your team.
I hope that there is a good attendance at the May 1 Burlington event. I cannot attend. I commute to work from North Avenue near Leddy Park to Essex Town 14.1 miles 1 way.
I will not be free at the noon hour to attend this event. I will join the BTV team today.
Roger, I commute from Jericho to EJ so I have joined the VT Bicycle Commuter team. Sorry Gahlord but I do nothing with Burlington except maybe visit once a month if that much. I know there are plenty of cyclists in BTV to join your team.
In reference to Gahlord's note, I'm currently the only member of my team "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" I commute from Richmond to Burlington, and anyone who is interested is welcome on my team. Cheers! -Roger
In reference to Gahlord's note, I'm currently the only member of my team "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" I commute from Richmond to Burlington, and anyone who is interested is welcome on my team. Cheers! -Roger
I've discovered that those of us with teams from last year have to make new teams this year. We can't just get our old teams in. So if anyone else is scratching their heads over that now you know.
BTV Digirati II is going to be back and at it this year. Looking forward to the NBC!
I've discovered that those of us with teams from last year have to make new teams this year. We can't just get our old teams in. So if anyone else is scratching their heads over that now you know.
BTV Digirati II is going to be back and at it this year. Looking forward to the NBC!
Anyone commuting in the Brattleboro area?
Hello fellow commuters.
VERY short, very consistent commuting here, all of 0.51 miles.
(0.3 if I shortcut across the railroad trastle in a death-defying risk of life and limb.)
A shout-out to Montpelier Freeride for their help of shop time and fellowship.
FreerideMontpelier dot ORG, on Barre Street.
-- Alex
Anyone commuting in the Brattleboro area?
Hello fellow commuters.
VERY short, very consistent commuting here, all of 0.51 miles.
(0.3 if I shortcut across the railroad trastle in a death-defying risk of life and limb.)
A shout-out to Montpelier Freeride for their help of shop time and fellowship.
FreerideMontpelier dot ORG, on Barre Street.
-- Alex
I'm not really a year-round commuter but my husband Steve Woodward has given me permission to join!
Sleeting here in VT, Getting tired of the bike stand and SufferFest videos...
I'm not really a year-round commuter but my husband Steve Woodward has given me permission to join!
Sleeting here in VT, Getting tired of the bike stand and SufferFest videos...
I am thoroughly confusted.
I am thoroughly confusted.
I think I just rejoined the S Burlington Rec Path Committee team. Let's see if it takes this time.
I think I just rejoined the S Burlington Rec Path Committee team. Let's see if it takes this time.
Seth - are you REALLY going out today. I also rode yesterday and it was pretty darn frigid, but I'm gonna stick to the trainer today...YOIKS, it's nasty out there!
Seth - are you REALLY going out today. I also rode yesterday and it was pretty darn frigid, but I'm gonna stick to the trainer today...YOIKS, it's nasty out there!
Today, 6 April was my first day out on the road with my bike this year. I rode about 16 miles on Northfield, VT with the high temperature at 36 degrees Fahrenheit. I’ve logged almost 700 miles indoors this year. It was nice to get outside again. I’m hoping to ride from Worcester to Elmore and back tomorrow.
Today, 6 April was my first day out on the road with my bike this year. I rode about 16 miles on Northfield, VT with the high temperature at 36 degrees Fahrenheit. I’ve logged almost 700 miles indoors this year. It was nice to get outside again. I’m hoping to ride from Worcester to Elmore and back tomorrow.
Ahh the fond memories of this day last year! riding in full sunshine and sweating like there was no tomorrow! Today it is skiing instead of the bike...not too bad of a trade off. Sunday looks like the soonest break and hopefully next week I can start the commute on Bike! Cheers
Ahh the fond memories of this day last year! riding in full sunshine and sweating like there was no tomorrow! Today it is skiing instead of the bike...not too bad of a trade off. Sunday looks like the soonest break and hopefully next week I can start the commute on Bike! Cheers
This still isn't right.
Ah, I think I have done it by following Dana's instructions.
This still isn't right.
Ah, I think I have done it by following Dana's instructions.
dare I risk it and say Maybe Friday a commute to work via Violetta II my precious work horse of a bicycle??? Saturday and Sunday Joy rides for sure!!! Almost time!
dare I risk it and say Maybe Friday a commute to work via Violetta II my precious work horse of a bicycle??? Saturday and Sunday Joy rides for sure!!! Almost time!
2500! Yeah! Not bad for starting in August.
2500! Yeah! Not bad for starting in August.
I will need my other studded snow tire this week!
Ran some errands this morning, also. 23*F with shorts on. At least there was no wind. Dreading a week out of town for business without my bike.
Brrr. Sunday morning doughnut run was a bit chilly on the bike today! but boy oh boy was it worth it!
I will need my other studded snow tire this week!
Ran some errands this morning, also. 23*F with shorts on. At least there was no wind. Dreading a week out of town for business without my bike.
Brrr. Sunday morning doughnut run was a bit chilly on the bike today! but boy oh boy was it worth it!
Annie and Todd!!! saw you brave souls out there this AM from the Commuter Bus!!! I hope you had a safe ride. Tomorrow or Thursday is a possibility for me! Ride On!
Annie and Todd!!! saw you brave souls out there this AM from the Commuter Bus!!! I hope you had a safe ride. Tomorrow or Thursday is a possibility for me! Ride On!
I will be falling off the back of the challenge when real weather arrives! 17 miles is too long for me to ride when I am afraid of slipping on ice! This has been such a great fall for us!
I will be falling off the back of the challenge when real weather arrives! 17 miles is too long for me to ride when I am afraid of slipping on ice! This has been such a great fall for us!
The weather has been mild enough that I'm still wearing shorts most mornings (I'm only on the road for 20 minutes), so I have bulked up too much. It only gets cumbersome when I have to bring the computer or my tool bag home for the night. The snow tires arrived today, so I'll be ready to go when I need them.
The weather has been mild enough that I'm still wearing shorts most mornings (I'm only on the road for 20 minutes), so I have bulked up too much. It only gets cumbersome when I have to bring the computer or my tool bag home for the night. The snow tires arrived today, so I'll be ready to go when I need them.
Underhill Center seems to have its own separate climate. This morning the roads were wet with a heavy dew and frosty in spots. Yikes! But as soon as we got on 15 all was clear. Kudos to all who are still riding. I don't know about you, but my co-worker was overwhelmed by all the gear I lug around to make it possible!
Underhill Center seems to have its own separate climate. This morning the roads were wet with a heavy dew and frosty in spots. Yikes! But as soon as we got on 15 all was clear. Kudos to all who are still riding. I don't know about you, but my co-worker was overwhelmed by all the gear I lug around to make it possible!
Yep! I would have ridden yesterday and today (took the new commuter bus) but the shoulder of the road was too icy and slick! looking forward to tomorrow and Friday and Saturday and Sunday warm weather for some long rides!
Brrr! The number of people tracking miles seems to be dwindling. It's feels great to see each of you still on the road.
Yep! I would have ridden yesterday and today (took the new commuter bus) but the shoulder of the road was too icy and slick! looking forward to tomorrow and Friday and Saturday and Sunday warm weather for some long rides!
Brrr! The number of people tracking miles seems to be dwindling. It's feels great to see each of you still on the road.
"back in the saddle again"! Was a bit chilly this morning but beautiful. Ride on fellow commuters!
"back in the saddle again"! Was a bit chilly this morning but beautiful. Ride on fellow commuters!
Thanks Gavin! I think I need some winterized lubricant----it IS getting tough. The worst part is that my brakes don't work well in the cold, it seems........
Yeah! Gavin!
can you say Flu! and even before I could get a shot. Well better now than later...actually better never but sometimes I have to pay the piper.
Cheers!
Thanks Gavin! I think I need some winterized lubricant----it IS getting tough. The worst part is that my brakes don't work well in the cold, it seems........
Yeah! Gavin!
can you say Flu! and even before I could get a shot. Well better now than later...actually better never but sometimes I have to pay the piper.
Cheers!
The Essex Sand Hill Road bike shop is Repairs by Mike at 760-7706.
The Essex Sand Hill Road bike shop is Repairs by Mike at 760-7706.
They are just a cross from my resident street up there. I can check on the way home, Made my 4000 point target. :) That new lower bracket grease getting THICK and hard to crank! Sleet in the face w brisk cold west headwind this am. The wet rain ride home yesterday was "character building". Re: Cold n Wet. LJ's from now on.
Anyone know how to reach the bike shop on Sandhill Rd in Essex? Please and thank-you!
They are just a cross from my resident street up there. I can check on the way home, Made my 4000 point target. :) That new lower bracket grease getting THICK and hard to crank! Sleet in the face w brisk cold west headwind this am. The wet rain ride home yesterday was "character building". Re: Cold n Wet. LJ's from now on.
Anyone know how to reach the bike shop on Sandhill Rd in Essex? Please and thank-you!
3965 points as of today. Going to get 4000 if I have to ride in the snow. Rode in today i the rain got soaked cold coming home. Will not be defeated on 4K.
3965 points as of today. Going to get 4000 if I have to ride in the snow. Rode in today i the rain got soaked cold coming home. Will not be defeated on 4K.
I am also loving the new Jeffersonville bus! With the weather changing over toward winter's side of fall, and the increasing darkness factor, it is great to get some last one-way rides in!
I am also loving the new Jeffersonville bus! With the weather changing over toward winter's side of fall, and the increasing darkness factor, it is great to get some last one-way rides in!
Hi Gavin, Oh yes! Been ridin' Thanks to Old Spokes Home...Glen and Braden got her back together in a couple of days. All the bruising is gone and I am going strong!
Shout out to Steve Hall...congrats on reaching your 5000 points! If it was not for Steve I would not have been able to make the 5000 points during the challenge period. My own personal coach and bike mechanic all rolled into a spouse!
I am glad somebody posted a comment...I was going to anyway today but I did not want to seem "needy". ;-) Ride on as much as you can!
Oh yes took the bus today...the Jeffersonville bus! my legs were cycle tired but I get in about 7.5 miles of walking/running as part of the bus commute.
Anita
Hi Gavin, Oh yes! Been ridin' Thanks to Old Spokes Home...Glen and Braden got her back together in a couple of days. All the bruising is gone and I am going strong!
Shout out to Steve Hall...congrats on reaching your 5000 points! If it was not for Steve I would not have been able to make the 5000 points during the challenge period. My own personal coach and bike mechanic all rolled into a spouse!
I am glad somebody posted a comment...I was going to anyway today but I did not want to seem "needy". ;-) Ride on as much as you can!
Oh yes took the bus today...the Jeffersonville bus! my legs were cycle tired but I get in about 7.5 miles of walking/running as part of the bus commute.
Anita
Anita, have that bike back in shape?
Anita, have that bike back in shape?
Woo hoo! 1400 miles that is awesome! congrats John Y!
Woo hoo! 1400 miles that is awesome! congrats John Y!
The Bike Challenge was GREAT! I kind of fell by the wayside in September. But logged over 1400 miles!
The Bike Challenge was GREAT! I kind of fell by the wayside in September. But logged over 1400 miles!
I think Jill's suggestion is a winner. I was having a problem with points not being updated. I normally just click "log miles" and do it from there. When I posted through the weekly screen, it updated the points for the whole week. Everything seems current now. Thank you, Jill, for your sage advice.
Nick - I don't know how you are posting, but you could try removing a day, and posting through a different method to see if that works. Last year I had a similar problem, and fixed it by posting manually through the weekly screen. Just a thought as I know it feels good to get recognized for all the good effort! Jill
Nick - I don't know how you are posting, but you could try removing a day, and posting through a different method to see if that works. Last year I had a similar problem, and fixed it by posting manually through the weekly screen. Just a thought as I know it feels good to get recognized for all the good effort! Jill
Good job getting to 5k, Anita! I hope your body recovers quickly.
So, I reach the 5k points and wait until the evening on Saturday to ride due to the harvest festival traffic in Jericho and then on the last mile of the trip I crash...not fall over but crash. Bike is in need of repair and my body is a bit of a reck. What a way to celebrate. Good timing if one is expecting to crash but I really did not need to have anything else happen this year. My fellow commuters there will be no miles for me on Monday since my ride is a bit bent out of shape. ;-) Ride on and hopefully the repairs will only take a week or two. Riding the 19 year old mountain bike to commute is just stupid at this time but okay for the back roads close to home so I was able to get some miles for Sunday.
cheers!
Good job getting to 5k, Anita! I hope your body recovers quickly.
So, I reach the 5k points and wait until the evening on Saturday to ride due to the harvest festival traffic in Jericho and then on the last mile of the trip I crash...not fall over but crash. Bike is in need of repair and my body is a bit of a reck. What a way to celebrate. Good timing if one is expecting to crash but I really did not need to have anything else happen this year. My fellow commuters there will be no miles for me on Monday since my ride is a bit bent out of shape. ;-) Ride on and hopefully the repairs will only take a week or two. Riding the 19 year old mountain bike to commute is just stupid at this time but okay for the back roads close to home so I was able to get some miles for Sunday.
cheers!
Thank you Steve and Randall!
4000 is nothing to sneeze at and 4k is really great!!!
I am very lucky that the weather held out, my spouse was participating too, my PT person Elise is awesome and patient, and my body held out.....my body is actually getting stronger each day!
Any points are wonderful. Cheers to you all and see ya on the road, dirt!
I'm having points issues as well. It looks to me that the 20 points per day ridden are not being awarded. For me i've ridden 15 days @ 40 miles in September. The leaderboard shows 600 points (15*40=600). I should have 900, which would be 15*(40+20) = 900.
Not sure the people who can fix this are reading the comments though. Anyone know who to contact? I see Endomondo has a help page here (http://www.endomondo.com/help), but i'm not sure this is a site issue... probably an issue for the administrators for the challenge.
Thank you Steve and Randall!
4000 is nothing to sneeze at and 4k is really great!!!
I am very lucky that the weather held out, my spouse was participating too, my PT person Elise is awesome and patient, and my body held out.....my body is actually getting stronger each day!
Any points are wonderful. Cheers to you all and see ya on the road, dirt!
I'm having points issues as well. It looks to me that the 20 points per day ridden are not being awarded. For me i've ridden 15 days @ 40 miles in September. The leaderboard shows 600 points (15*40=600). I should have 900, which would be 15*(40+20) = 900.
Not sure the people who can fix this are reading the comments though. Anyone know who to contact? I see Endomondo has a help page here (http://www.endomondo.com/help), but i'm not sure this is a site issue... probably an issue for the administrators for the challenge.
Hey Randall, I know exactly how you feel. But work happens, bike parts break and life happens in between. Then I realized how few people cross 4000 points. Then I realize I have a great job, great bike, and great life! Congrads at "Cubic Zirconia" it's an awesome accomplishment!
And then there was Platinum.
Way to go Anita. Very impressive comeback after your injury and great dedication to commuting! Love ya.
Hey Randall, I know exactly how you feel. But work happens, bike parts break and life happens in between. Then I realized how few people cross 4000 points. Then I realize I have a great job, great bike, and great life! Congrads at "Cubic Zirconia" it's an awesome accomplishment!
And then there was Platinum.
I think the NBC WEB site is having a issue. Miles data entry seems to be ok but the points calculation are not working. It rectified itself later on when I previously had this issue. BTW ... Congrats Anita on achieving the 5K Diamond level .... I have only managed to hit the 4K points "Cubic Zirconia" level this year :-(
Way to go Anita. Very impressive comeback after your injury and great dedication to commuting! Love ya.
I think I'm having the same problem with points not being logged. And I'm so close to getting to 1000 points before the end of the challenge!
I think the NBC WEB site is having a issue. Miles data entry seems to be ok but the points calculation are not working. It rectified itself later on when I previously had this issue. BTW ... Congrats Anita on achieving the 5K Diamond level .... I have only managed to hit the 4K points "Cubic Zirconia" level this year :-(
A nice brisk ride in this morning - 36 degrees.
the miles I logged yesterday would not take. Then I deleted them and tried to enter them again for the 25th and it still did not work. SO I had to log yesterdays miles and todays miles all on the 26th....did anybody else have that problem?
Anita
I think I'm having the same problem with points not being logged. And I'm so close to getting to 1000 points before the end of the challenge!
A nice brisk ride in this morning - 36 degrees.
the miles I logged yesterday would not take. Then I deleted them and tried to enter them again for the 25th and it still did not work. SO I had to log yesterdays miles and todays miles all on the 26th....did anybody else have that problem?
Anita
Keil, How are you doing these days? I hope all is moving forward for you!!!
Cheers
Keil, How are you doing these days? I hope all is moving forward for you!!!
Cheers
My point total hasn't been updated for miles I logged yesterday. What gives? C'mon, I'm working on Platinum here.
My point total hasn't been updated for miles I logged yesterday. What gives? C'mon, I'm working on Platinum here.
Logged my 1,000th mile today.
Logged my 1,000th mile today.
Seth, Waterloo is the home of Trek bicycles, so I expect the employees (not necessarily residents) are kicking up the town's numbers.
Seth, Waterloo is the home of Trek bicycles, so I expect the employees (not necessarily residents) are kicking up the town's numbers.
Hey all, I noticed something weird with the national challenge leaderboard for communities. Being from Jericho, I've noted that we are in 2nd position nationally for towns >5000 but less than 50000 population. The number one community is Waterloo WI which as far as I can tell from a quick google search has only 3345 people. What's up with that? Waterloo should be in the lower <5000 category and Jericho should be number 1. I'm obviously biased being from Jericho and wanting my town to win, but I thought I'd point it out anyway....
Hey all, I noticed something weird with the national challenge leaderboard for communities. Being from Jericho, I've noted that we are in 2nd position nationally for towns >5000 but less than 50000 population. The number one community is Waterloo WI which as far as I can tell from a quick google search has only 3345 people. What's up with that? Waterloo should be in the lower <5000 category and Jericho should be number 1. I'm obviously biased being from Jericho and wanting my town to win, but I thought I'd point it out anyway....
Nice day Saturday to ride the Maine Lighthouse Century Ride in Portland. Our 2nd year doing it.
Nice day Saturday to ride the Maine Lighthouse Century Ride in Portland. Our 2nd year doing it.
Rode 2/3rds of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route this summer, was a bit sad that I didn't get online partway through so my miles didn't officially count in the monthly totals for july or august (I just entered them all today!) but still great to get lots of miles on the board. Great riding summer, hope to log at least a bunch in Sept to end it off right!
Sailor, you must have looked before it updated, I just checked and you have 194 points for Sept. Ride on !!
Found Subaru and house keys at the intersection of vt 117 and North Williston Rd.
Rode 2/3rds of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route this summer, was a bit sad that I didn't get online partway through so my miles didn't officially count in the monthly totals for july or august (I just entered them all today!) but still great to get lots of miles on the board. Great riding summer, hope to log at least a bunch in Sept to end it off right!
Is anyone else having trouble with Endomondo recording their miles? When I upload from my Garmin the system defaults to "running." I change it to cycling and click upload and the rides save successfully but they are changed back to "running" activities. I edit the ride back to cycling but the points don't calculate for me. I still show zero for the month.
Sailor, you must have looked before it updated, I just checked and you have 194 points for Sept. Ride on !!
Found Subaru and house keys at the intersection of vt 117 and North Williston Rd.
Is anyone else having trouble with Endomondo recording their miles? When I upload from my Garmin the system defaults to "running." I change it to cycling and click upload and the rides save successfully but they are changed back to "running" activities. I edit the ride back to cycling but the points don't calculate for me. I still show zero for the month.
I spotted a cordless phone on my way home yesterday which was interesting. I find tools most of the time and I like to pick up the good useable ones. I found a perfectly good rear light one time and tire levers.
I spotted a cordless phone on my way home yesterday which was interesting. I find tools most of the time and I like to pick up the good useable ones. I found a perfectly good rear light one time and tire levers.
I thought the challenge ended in August, I am happy to still log my miles!
I thought the challenge ended in August, I am happy to still log my miles!
Rode the 'Dirty 40' this past Saturday in Derby; 40 miles on dirt, 20 on pavement and what an awesome race! Over 300 racers participated and hats go off the organizers, who apparently expected 50 racers to show. Brace for 500 next year! I know I'll be headed back to try to place higher. The Dirty 40 Rocks!
Hey Gang, was riding on RT15 and I discovered that I'd forgot to zip up the sex toy bag that I keep on my bike all my toys are missing, please keep an eye out and let me know if you see any of my gear, especially my purple favorite. ;-)
Rode the 'Dirty 40' this past Saturday in Derby; 40 miles on dirt, 20 on pavement and what an awesome race! Over 300 racers participated and hats go off the organizers, who apparently expected 50 racers to show. Brace for 500 next year! I know I'll be headed back to try to place higher. The Dirty 40 Rocks!
Congratluations on the Burlington criterium Amy Miner! We haven't met but I was there yelling my head off for you yesterday!
Congratluations on the Burlington criterium Amy Miner! We haven't met but I was there yelling my head off for you yesterday!
Oh yes speaking of weird things you see on the road whilst riding .... I saw a purple sparkly sex toy....hmmmm what is going on out in Jericho???? on route 15? Well if you are riding east bound on rte. 15 Jericho just past Browns Trace .. just be aware IT is out there!
Kris!!! Sadly I know about big hair and barretts popping off! I will keep an eye out if I go over Skunk Hollow way.
Kiel, I wish the best rehab for you to get you back and riding! May the pain of rehab be a welcomed thing for you since there is so much that is numb and non function. I surely do hope that I do not pass you in overall points and especially in the Team points for Commuters 'cause I know you are the king in that area and will in my mind be the inspiration to commute whenever and however far the ride may be. Best of luck and skilled professionals to work with you and I do hope that you can get back on the bike as soon as possible and that you can get back to do what ever it is you love doing in life! hang in there!
Kris: Sadly Royal Cycle in Essex close Sept --> Oct range of last year due to a lack of business. I miss having a local shop there.
Oh yes speaking of weird things you see on the road whilst riding .... I saw a purple sparkly sex toy....hmmmm what is going on out in Jericho???? on route 15? Well if you are riding east bound on rte. 15 Jericho just past Browns Trace .. just be aware IT is out there!
Kris!!! Sadly I know about big hair and barretts popping off! I will keep an eye out if I go over Skunk Hollow way.
Kiel, I wish the best rehab for you to get you back and riding! May the pain of rehab be a welcomed thing for you since there is so much that is numb and non function. I surely do hope that I do not pass you in overall points and especially in the Team points for Commuters 'cause I know you are the king in that area and will in my mind be the inspiration to commute whenever and however far the ride may be. Best of luck and skilled professionals to work with you and I do hope that you can get back on the bike as soon as possible and that you can get back to do what ever it is you love doing in life! hang in there!
Kris: Sadly Royal Cycle in Essex close Sept --> Oct range of last year due to a lack of business. I miss having a local shop there.
Just wanted to give a quick update on my condition. Tumor is out now. I have limited motor function in my left foot, nothing yet in the right, and numb from the chest down. They'd like to send me to Spaulding rehab center in Boston within the next few days.
Thank you all for your support and good luck with the rest of he challenge. Im very proud to count myself among the Vermont bicyclists and I hope someday to join you on the roads again.
Best, k
Just wanted to give a quick update on my condition. Tumor is out now. I have limited motor function in my left foot, nothing yet in the right, and numb from the chest down. They'd like to send me to Spaulding rehab center in Boston within the next few days.
Thank you all for your support and good luck with the rest of he challenge. Im very proud to count myself among the Vermont bicyclists and I hope someday to join you on the roads again.
Best, k
Rode by twin discarded hypo needles on 117 today, which is a bit disconcerting. Also noted the largest dead frog I have ever seen ironed flat against the road on Skunk Hollow in Jericho---I could have nearly rolled it up and brought it home to use as a welcome mat! Any cyclers riding over this route, if you find my blue pewter hair barrette, I would love to have it back--biked so hard my hair got big! Anyone know what's happened to Royal Cycles in Essex?
Rode by twin discarded hypo needles on 117 today, which is a bit disconcerting. Also noted the largest dead frog I have ever seen ironed flat against the road on Skunk Hollow in Jericho---I could have nearly rolled it up and brought it home to use as a welcome mat! Any cyclers riding over this route, if you find my blue pewter hair barrette, I would love to have it back--biked so hard my hair got big! Anyone know what's happened to Royal Cycles in Essex?
Bravo to all the riders in this challenge. The shear numbers are amazing. Keep spinning those wheels.
Bravo to all the riders in this challenge. The shear numbers are amazing. Keep spinning those wheels.
KUDOS to the town of Jericho for repainting the line on Brown's Trace so there's actually a shoulder to ride on, from MMU north!
KUDOS to the town of Jericho for repainting the line on Brown's Trace so there's actually a shoulder to ride on, from MMU north!
Kiel, Wishing you a successful surgery tomorrow, and a very speedy & full recovery. May your commitment to cycling give you the strength to recover, and join us on the road soon.
Kiel, Get well fast and get back in the saddle. You prove that people have no excuses for not commuting by bicycle to work every day....
Kiel, Wishing you a successful surgery tomorrow, and a very speedy & full recovery. May your commitment to cycling give you the strength to recover, and join us on the road soon.
Keil : There is no doubt you will win this health challenge and continue to be a inspiration for the rest of us. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Kiel, Get well fast and get back in the saddle. You prove that people have no excuses for not commuting by bicycle to work every day....
Keil : There is no doubt you will win this health challenge and continue to be a inspiration for the rest of us. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
Kiel, it sounds like you were "lucky" to have that cycling mishap. Perhaps without it, the tumor would have gone unnoticed and untreated. Let's all hope that things turn out well and that you're back on your bike soon.
Keil: hope you rock the procedure. You will be passing me again in no time!
Kiel, it sounds like you were "lucky" to have that cycling mishap. Perhaps without it, the tumor would have gone unnoticed and untreated. Let's all hope that things turn out well and that you're back on your bike soon.
Keil: hope you rock the procedure. You will be passing me again in no time!
Oh fellow commuter Keil!!! I am so sorry to hear about the Spinal tumor!!! What is in the stars that a group of us have been suffering through back/spine/nerve issues this year!
I wish a successful surgery, speedy recovery and that you are able to ride like the wind again! Mostly, I wish the best for you and that the mental skills aquired for long commutes on a bike can be directed to rest, recovery and healing. My best for you, Anita
Oh fellow commuter Keil!!! I am so sorry to hear about the Spinal tumor!!! What is in the stars that a group of us have been suffering through back/spine/nerve issues this year!
I wish a successful surgery, speedy recovery and that you are able to ride like the wind again! Mostly, I wish the best for you and that the mental skills aquired for long commutes on a bike can be directed to rest, recovery and healing. My best for you, Anita
Keil, Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Get well soon.
Keil, I look forward to your speedy recovery and return to cycling.
Keil, Best wishes for a speedy recovery. Get well soon.
Kiel, Thanks for sharing so we can encourage you. I'm praying for you, too. Get well soon!
Keil, I look forward to your speedy recovery and return to cycling.
Hey Ace, your amazing mental and physical strength are matched by your kind and supportive spirit. Get well soon!
Kiel, I pray the surgery goes well and you have a full recovery. In the big picture, I hope this will become only a little bump in the road for you.
Kiel, Thanks for sharing so we can encourage you. I'm praying for you, too. Get well soon!
Hey Ace, your amazing mental and physical strength are matched by your kind and supportive spirit. Get well soon!
Kiel, I pray the surgery goes well and you have a full recovery. In the big picture, I hope this will become only a little bump in the road for you.
Keil, sorry to hear this, healing thoughts to you and best wishes for a speedy recovery, I've grown used to seeing you at the top of the list and know that I will see you there again soon. Best, Roger Bombardier Jr.
Keil, sorry to hear this, healing thoughts to you and best wishes for a speedy recovery, I've grown used to seeing you at the top of the list and know that I will see you there again soon. Best, Roger Bombardier Jr.
Kiel---best of luck for a speedy recovery. You are our emblem of bicycle transportation and a great inspiration.
sorry to hear the news Kiel , best of luck with your health and remain strong
OMG Kiel - I wish you the best of luck with your surgery!
dear bike challenge friends. it appears i am out of the competition. an incident on my bike earlier this week led to the discovery of a tumor in my spinal cord. i have surgery scheduled for wednesday, but i will be off the bike for sometime to come... i wish all the rest of you the best luck and look forward to passing on the trophy to this year's winner.
-kiel
Kiel---best of luck for a speedy recovery. You are our emblem of bicycle transportation and a great inspiration.
sorry to hear the news Kiel , best of luck with your health and remain strong
OMG Kiel - I wish you the best of luck with your surgery!
dear bike challenge friends. it appears i am out of the competition. an incident on my bike earlier this week led to the discovery of a tumor in my spinal cord. i have surgery scheduled for wednesday, but i will be off the bike for sometime to come... i wish all the rest of you the best luck and look forward to passing on the trophy to this year's winner.
-kiel
I agree, Jim. Listening to coworkers in the DC area talk about their 40 minute to 2 hour commutes makes me appreciate my 12 minutes along Lake Champlain that much more!
I agree, Jim. Listening to coworkers in the DC area talk about their 40 minute to 2 hour commutes makes me appreciate my 12 minutes along Lake Champlain that much more!
Share with your employers: http://www.triplepundit.com/2013/08/biking-improves-employee-productivity/
Share with your employers: http://www.triplepundit.com/2013/08/biking-improves-employee-productivity/
Kiel,
How long is your daily commute? Mine's only a mile! I love comparing commuting times with co-workers at PA that drive much longer than I ride to work - which is about 5 minutes. They are so envious!
Kiel,
How long is your daily commute? Mine's only a mile! I love comparing commuting times with co-workers at PA that drive much longer than I ride to work - which is about 5 minutes. They are so envious!
"From One Second To The Next": http://youtu.be/Xk1vCqfYpos. Werner Herzog directed short on texting and driving. Please watch and remember that we are owe it to each other to focus on the road. No more excuses.
"From One Second To The Next": http://youtu.be/Xk1vCqfYpos. Werner Herzog directed short on texting and driving. Please watch and remember that we are owe it to each other to focus on the road. No more excuses.
Correction from my Colorado brother: Mt. Evans CO climb is 28 MILES each way! 7700 vertical feet. Danielson holds the recond 1:40 plus. It's a 56 mile round trip, all of it above 7,000 feet alt! Think Camels Hump stacked on top of Camels Hump, starting 3300 feet ABOVE the top of Mt Mansfield.
So its status quo. Thanks. NO way around grinding more miles! My problem, I get into the coditioning climbs, those are hard earned miles! Too bad the Range road isn't open through there and paved all the way! Or Toll road in Stowe maybe. Out west, we have beasts like Mt Evans, Hoosier pass, Loveland, Berthoud Passes. etc. Evans starts at 7700 feet (at the gate) and goes over 25K and 14,220 feet to the park lot on top. Ran into Levi Lephiemer (when he was Gerolstiener) up there in 2004. 6500 vertical feet and starts at well over a mile alt. THATS an elite training climb!
Correction from my Colorado brother: Mt. Evans CO climb is 28 MILES each way! 7700 vertical feet. Danielson holds the recond 1:40 plus. It's a 56 mile round trip, all of it above 7,000 feet alt! Think Camels Hump stacked on top of Camels Hump, starting 3300 feet ABOVE the top of Mt Mansfield.
So its status quo. Thanks. NO way around grinding more miles! My problem, I get into the coditioning climbs, those are hard earned miles! Too bad the Range road isn't open through there and paved all the way! Or Toll road in Stowe maybe. Out west, we have beasts like Mt Evans, Hoosier pass, Loveland, Berthoud Passes. etc. Evans starts at 7700 feet (at the gate) and goes over 25K and 14,220 feet to the park lot on top. Ran into Levi Lephiemer (when he was Gerolstiener) up there in 2004. 6500 vertical feet and starts at well over a mile alt. THATS an elite training climb!
Gavin, If you log two "trips", it will double what you enter for miles. I'm pretty sure that you still only get ONE set of 20 points for each DAY you ride (plus a point per mile). No matter how many trips I make in a day, I always just log one trip, along with my day's total miles. You're doing it right.
Gavin, If you log two "trips", it will double what you enter for miles. I'm pretty sure that you still only get ONE set of 20 points for each DAY you ride (plus a point per mile). No matter how many trips I make in a day, I always just log one trip, along with my day's total miles. You're doing it right.
Took a tumble and broke my wrist. Be careful out there!
Took a tumble and broke my wrist. Be careful out there!
Back on the bike! Feels good to be riding again!
Back on the bike! Feels good to be riding again!
changed a flat on the fly today on my way into work and then i got dumped on...it was quite an adventure :)
changed a flat on the fly today on my way into work and then i got dumped on...it was quite an adventure :)
4-5 Ladies in the top 20...cool. Anita is pounding it. gotta do another late day long loop maybe Essex x 15 Morrisville x 100 Waterbury x 2 to Essex to catch up for good. Those 100K runs hurt. .
Age. Schmage. Good bike geometry tuning is critical too as you get older. Hey, question for the knowledgeables. "trips" are counted how? I log 1 trip for each days commute (that being IN to work then BACK home in the later PM w my xtra mileage loops. Been doing that all summer. Should I be logging "trips" as one IN and then another HOME for 2 daily? Totals and shape is all I really care about, but I was wondering if Im doing that right? G Good run in today! Tailwind?
4-5 Ladies in the top 20...cool. Anita is pounding it. gotta do another late day long loop maybe Essex x 15 Morrisville x 100 Waterbury x 2 to Essex to catch up for good. Those 100K runs hurt. .
Age. Schmage. Good bike geometry tuning is critical too as you get older. Hey, question for the knowledgeables. "trips" are counted how? I log 1 trip for each days commute (that being IN to work then BACK home in the later PM w my xtra mileage loops. Been doing that all summer. Should I be logging "trips" as one IN and then another HOME for 2 daily? Totals and shape is all I really care about, but I was wondering if Im doing that right? G Good run in today! Tailwind?
Cycling seems like the only thing I can do right now without back pain. Usually my fault for forgetting my age and improper lifting and stretching.
WooHoo CCTA. Just saved from a busted rim!
Cycling seems like the only thing I can do right now without back pain. Usually my fault for forgetting my age and improper lifting and stretching.
WooHoo CCTA. Just saved from a busted rim!
Gavin, ditto on Jens Voight! and ditto on the snow storms and high passes. My spouse has quite a bit of experince with those conditions in Co. .... Me my experiences are the Sierra Nevada in Tahoe area.
Good on ya about the lilac bushes and sorry about the back stuff. If you are only 60 I know for a fact you are not the oldest out there! Not saying I am 60 yet but I know a few folks that are over that wonderous age.
Keep on riding when and where you can! AND may all the BACK stuff just cease!
Cheers,
Anita
Gavin, ditto on Jens Voight! and ditto on the snow storms and high passes. My spouse has quite a bit of experince with those conditions in Co. .... Me my experiences are the Sierra Nevada in Tahoe area.
Good on ya about the lilac bushes and sorry about the back stuff. If you are only 60 I know for a fact you are not the oldest out there! Not saying I am 60 yet but I know a few folks that are over that wonderous age.
Keep on riding when and where you can! AND may all the BACK stuff just cease!
Cheers,
Anita
Threw my back out playing golf. Haven't been on a bike all month! Not happy about that
Threw my back out playing golf. Haven't been on a bike all month! Not happy about that
Likewise on the 'motorists'. Little Men in Trucks playing "Let's see how close we can get" game. Screw 'em. I chased one down (and caught) on Grenbriar coming in this am. Made the 2500!! Did the four climbs in Underhill Center Saturday, uphill miles are hard earned. Had to spend Sunday w swarms of vicious VT black flies tearing out some old lilacs. ***Anita, yoga torso twist full length long and slow on floor, that lower back. After the heavy lilac lift PM Sun, I got stiff. This am, streched it out, feels fine, but same problem as you. I am OLD as the mountians, btw who IS the OLDEST cyclist in here? My 60? No way. Friday rainday was a FUN day. I had kids pointing from inside cars "Look at the "Crazy man" out there Mommie! I don't mind riding the rain. Just gotta respect the 23mm tires, slippery road features (white anything) the Idiots, take the game back a big notch on everything except flats. Yer not riding rain unless yer spittmg and sitting in sand! Try a sudden Colorado snowstorm coming off Loveland pass at 11,800ft in the 30's! I'm really gonna miss Jens Voigt.
Likewise on the 'motorists'. Little Men in Trucks playing "Let's see how close we can get" game. Screw 'em. I chased one down (and caught) on Grenbriar coming in this am. Made the 2500!! Did the four climbs in Underhill Center Saturday, uphill miles are hard earned. Had to spend Sunday w swarms of vicious VT black flies tearing out some old lilacs. ***Anita, yoga torso twist full length long and slow on floor, that lower back. After the heavy lilac lift PM Sun, I got stiff. This am, streched it out, feels fine, but same problem as you. I am OLD as the mountians, btw who IS the OLDEST cyclist in here? My 60? No way. Friday rainday was a FUN day. I had kids pointing from inside cars "Look at the "Crazy man" out there Mommie! I don't mind riding the rain. Just gotta respect the 23mm tires, slippery road features (white anything) the Idiots, take the game back a big notch on everything except flats. Yer not riding rain unless yer spittmg and sitting in sand! Try a sudden Colorado snowstorm coming off Loveland pass at 11,800ft in the 30's! I'm really gonna miss Jens Voigt.
The ride in today made me thankful for my Sks longboard fenders, they performed very well and minimized, to the extent, that is possible the amount of water that got on me & the bike. Now I'm putting the officer dehumidifier to good use :-)
@Jody- I'm noticing an increase of the "You're in my way" driving myself lately.
Hmmm, all dressed and ready to go then it starts to pour outside this AM....Radar was just a bit off this AM. Oh well I will try to catch a ride after work. So I said 5000 here I come unless I get hit...I should have added raining and flooding to the mix too..especially this year. Cheers to those of you who can commute safely in the rain!
The ride in today made me thankful for my Sks longboard fenders, they performed very well and minimized, to the extent, that is possible the amount of water that got on me & the bike. Now I'm putting the officer dehumidifier to good use :-)
@Jody- I'm noticing an increase of the "You're in my way" driving myself lately.
Hmmm, all dressed and ready to go then it starts to pour outside this AM....Radar was just a bit off this AM. Oh well I will try to catch a ride after work. So I said 5000 here I come unless I get hit...I should have added raining and flooding to the mix too..especially this year. Cheers to those of you who can commute safely in the rain!
@ John-
this has been happening a lot to me lately...i just try to take the lane if i can so that drivers don't really have the opportunity to pass...my ride is a mix of different roadways and paths so i can sort of create my route as i go
What do you guys do about drivers that pass too closely or otherwise honk and threaten to hit you?
One point!!!!! Oh Crap! ;-) doing better each day. Sciatic nerve being bothered by injured muscles in glut area...which we do not know at this time and at this point I really don't want to be subjected to an MRI to find out. PT is saving me for sure. Being on the Bike is the less painful position/activity for me than standing, sitting, walking or running....even sleeping. 5000 here I come unless I get hit.
@ John-
this has been happening a lot to me lately...i just try to take the lane if i can so that drivers don't really have the opportunity to pass...my ride is a mix of different roadways and paths so i can sort of create my route as i go
What do you guys do about drivers that pass too closely or otherwise honk and threaten to hit you?
One point!!!!! Oh Crap! ;-) doing better each day. Sciatic nerve being bothered by injured muscles in glut area...which we do not know at this time and at this point I really don't want to be subjected to an MRI to find out. PT is saving me for sure. Being on the Bike is the less painful position/activity for me than standing, sitting, walking or running....even sleeping. 5000 here I come unless I get hit.
Upgraded a week ago from 175 mm 53/39 Bontrager race cransk to Ultegra 172.5 53/39 with the Hollowtech II bottom bracket w the outboard bearings. Immediately noted better lateral stabilty, less frame flex, smoother cranking w better power transfer uphill and in TT position. I recommend this set up. 5 mm less diameter on the cranks, I'm 5'11", so 175mm was just a bit long. Better on the legs/knees for sure. It's me on the silver/black mid-2000's TREK.
One point Anita...One point... :) How is the back?
Upgraded a week ago from 175 mm 53/39 Bontrager race cransk to Ultegra 172.5 53/39 with the Hollowtech II bottom bracket w the outboard bearings. Immediately noted better lateral stabilty, less frame flex, smoother cranking w better power transfer uphill and in TT position. I recommend this set up. 5 mm less diameter on the cranks, I'm 5'11", so 175mm was just a bit long. Better on the legs/knees for sure. It's me on the silver/black mid-2000's TREK.
One point Anita...One point... :) How is the back?
Dang, I've been biking for months and Shawn Keeley passes me on our company leaderboard by joining this week! He's a beast!
Dang, I've been biking for months and Shawn Keeley passes me on our company leaderboard by joining this week! He's a beast!
finally commuted to work today. 10.6 gorgeous miles (one way) from Worcester to Montpelier.
finally commuted to work today. 10.6 gorgeous miles (one way) from Worcester to Montpelier.
Can someone tell me how to change teams? I can't find it anywhere.
Have the most scenic commute...following the Winooski River and getting a glorious view of Camels Hump Mountain in the distance....never tire of this biking commute!
Can someone tell me how to change teams? I can't find it anywhere.
Have the most scenic commute...following the Winooski River and getting a glorious view of Camels Hump Mountain in the distance....never tire of this biking commute!
Ah Timothy, coming after the old & inured....hmmmm. ;-) just kidding. Go right on ahead and pass me in the rankings!!! it is all good!
Cheers,
Anita
Ah Timothy, coming after the old & inured....hmmmm. ;-) just kidding. Go right on ahead and pass me in the rankings!!! it is all good!
Cheers,
Anita
I think I was right on your coattails for a while there, Anita.
Dang taking two weeks off work really set me back in the rankings!
Welcome Kiel! nice to see a commuter join the VT Commuter team.
Anita
I think I was right on your coattails for a while there, Anita.
Dang taking two weeks off work really set me back in the rankings!
Welcome Kiel! nice to see a commuter join the VT Commuter team.
Anita
This morning I rode on the bike path in Central Park, rode in the bike lane down 91st St to the bike path along the East River, returned by the bike lane up 89th St and did a final lap around Central Park. Cloudy and cool when I started, sunny and warm when I finished. I visited The Cloisters in the afternoon, but that was by subway and foot.
This morning I rode on the bike path in Central Park, rode in the bike lane down 91st St to the bike path along the East River, returned by the bike lane up 89th St and did a final lap around Central Park. Cloudy and cool when I started, sunny and warm when I finished. I visited The Cloisters in the afternoon, but that was by subway and foot.
Hey Janet! Sounds like a great ride! Go Jericho riders!
Hey Janet! Sounds like a great ride! Go Jericho riders!
Janet, sounds great! I've heard nice things about that ride!
A bit different scenery on my bike ride today! While visiting my son in New York City, I rented a bike and rode 25 miles on the Hudson River Bike Path. I saw skyscrapers, boats of all sizes, The Intrepid with space shuttles visible and lots of parks and green spaces along the river. The skies were threatening, but the rain held off.
Janet, sounds great! I've heard nice things about that ride!
A bit different scenery on my bike ride today! While visiting my son in New York City, I rented a bike and rode 25 miles on the Hudson River Bike Path. I saw skyscrapers, boats of all sizes, The Intrepid with space shuttles visible and lots of parks and green spaces along the river. The skies were threatening, but the rain held off.
Hi Anita, I'm back on today, new shiny wheel too.
Huge Bummer Roger!!!! I can totally relate! I hope you get back on the road/dirt soon!
cheers!
Hi Anita, I'm back on today, new shiny wheel too.
Huge Bummer Roger!!!! I can totally relate! I hope you get back on the road/dirt soon!
cheers!
Janet, sounds great! I've heard nice things about that ride!
minor injuries and now a destroyed wheel have me on the sidelines, looking forward to getting back out there!
A bit different scenery on my bike ride today! While visiting my son in New York City, I rented a bike and rode 25 miles on the Hudson River Bike Path. I saw skyscrapers, boats of all sizes, The Intrepid with space shuttles visible and lots of parks and green spaces along the river. The skies were threatening, but the rain held off.
minor injuries and now a destroyed wheel have me on the sidelines, looking forward to getting back out there!
Hi Anita, I'm back on today, new shiny wheel too.
Huge Bummer Roger!!!! I can totally relate! I hope you get back on the road/dirt soon!
cheers!
I rode from my house in Essex to Jeffersonville via Upper Pleasant Valley Rd...it was gorgeous, perfect weather.
I rode from my house in Essex to Jeffersonville via Upper Pleasant Valley Rd...it was gorgeous, perfect weather.
Whats a vacation....50 hours a week. Sumday ill get a vacation.ride on :-)
Yes and yes, Jason. If you live in Vermont your "anywhere miles" count for Vermont. Vacation ride on!
Whats a vacation....50 hours a week. Sumday ill get a vacation.ride on :-)
Yes and yes, Jason. If you live in Vermont your "anywhere miles" count for Vermont. Vacation ride on!
Way to ride and inspire, Annie and Jill. I hope we get to hear more about your fabulous trips!
Is it reasonable, or allowed, to count miles ridden in another state toward my Vermont Bike Challenge miles?
Way to ride and inspire, Annie and Jill. I hope we get to hear more about your fabulous trips!
Is it reasonable, or allowed, to count miles ridden in another state toward my Vermont Bike Challenge miles?
I'm not used to being at the top of the monthly leader board, yet pushing toward 5,000 points is yet another incentive to be riding. At the moment I am touring around Lake Superior, getting lots of miles and enjoying some awesome riding. It's a highly recommended summer vacation.
I'm not used to being at the top of the monthly leader board, yet pushing toward 5,000 points is yet another incentive to be riding. At the moment I am touring around Lake Superior, getting lots of miles and enjoying some awesome riding. It's a highly recommended summer vacation.
Nick,
you can click in the "show" drop down list right next to the time frame drop down list and adjust the "class" of the town which filters based on population. The categories are pretty granular but it cooks it down a bit. I've noticed that Jericho is 2nd in the country for towns greater than 5000 but less than 50000 behind Waterloo WI.
Does anyone else think the "Communities" leaderboard is a bit... skewed? Because it's per 1000 people, very small towns get a big multiplier and end up near the top with only a few miles logged... Not sure how to fix it, just observing.
Nick,
you can click in the "show" drop down list right next to the time frame drop down list and adjust the "class" of the town which filters based on population. The categories are pretty granular but it cooks it down a bit. I've noticed that Jericho is 2nd in the country for towns greater than 5000 but less than 50000 behind Waterloo WI.
Does anyone else think the "Communities" leaderboard is a bit... skewed? Because it's per 1000 people, very small towns get a big multiplier and end up near the top with only a few miles logged... Not sure how to fix it, just observing.
I've been missing the "freight train" in the mornings...of course you both may have been out there while I was out injured.
Best of weather and folks along the way of your 3 week tour...I am quite envious.
Have fun!
Anita
I've been missing the "freight train" in the mornings...of course you both may have been out there while I was out injured.
Best of weather and folks along the way of your 3 week tour...I am quite envious.
Have fun!
Anita
My husband and I are about to start a 3-week bike tour and are going to attempt to keep a blog. We already made a few entries about trip prep. Follow along if you'd like or if you are thinking about trying some self-supported touring.
http://annieandtodd.blogspot.com/
Annie
My husband and I are about to start a 3-week bike tour and are going to attempt to keep a blog. We already made a few entries about trip prep. Follow along if you'd like or if you are thinking about trying some self-supported touring.
http://annieandtodd.blogspot.com/
Annie
Commute in this AM was WONDERFUL! So far so good! I know I know not too fast in progression. Cheers
Commute in this AM was WONDERFUL! So far so good! I know I know not too fast in progression. Cheers
44.33 miles today. Including that jackhammer mess 128....All went well until I headed back toward Essex on 2A and met... The Dreaded Headwind...Caught up to a lady rider on US7 south from Milton that was gunning along, firing it on both cylinders. Nice riding whoever that was...you peeled off rt 2 toward the islands. FYA you got caught by a 60 year old, the "old man river"! No worries, don't think I could match yer pace much longer though!! I was about 30 into it by then. Guys in The Tour today did 242 K and ended with a nice 20 K climb up 8% Mt Ventoux. I don't feel so bad. A bit dehydrated...hot out there. No bears this time.
44.33 miles today. Including that jackhammer mess 128....All went well until I headed back toward Essex on 2A and met... The Dreaded Headwind...Caught up to a lady rider on US7 south from Milton that was gunning along, firing it on both cylinders. Nice riding whoever that was...you peeled off rt 2 toward the islands. FYA you got caught by a 60 year old, the "old man river"! No worries, don't think I could match yer pace much longer though!! I was about 30 into it by then. Guys in The Tour today did 242 K and ended with a nice 20 K climb up 8% Mt Ventoux. I don't feel so bad. A bit dehydrated...hot out there. No bears this time.
Nice pic of the milesytone, Kiel!
Woo Hoo Kiel! I too have some good news for the environment and for me....I will start commuting by bike again on Moday.....I can hardly wait to get out of my car!!!! Not all is totally healed but getting better by leaps and bounds!
Go Kiel Go!
Nice pic of the milesytone, Kiel!
Woo Hoo Kiel! I too have some good news for the environment and for me....I will start commuting by bike again on Moday.....I can hardly wait to get out of my car!!!! Not all is totally healed but getting better by leaps and bounds!
Go Kiel Go!
Nice going, Kiel!
Wow ! Congrats Kiel. That's an impressive milestone.
Nice going, Kiel!
15 months ago, when i started biking to work.
Wow ! Congrats Kiel. That's an impressive milestone.
Congrats Kiel!
Go, Kiel! When did your 10, 000 mile journey begin?
I haven't been going as hard this year as i was last year, but this morning i hit a new milestone i'm pretty proud of. 10,000 miles on my bike. My odometer has apparently given up: http://i.imgur.com/gwAR8fY.jpg
15 months ago, when i started biking to work.
Congrats Kiel!
Go, Kiel! When did your 10, 000 mile journey begin?
I haven't been going as hard this year as i was last year, but this morning i hit a new milestone i'm pretty proud of. 10,000 miles on my bike. My odometer has apparently given up: http://i.imgur.com/gwAR8fY.jpg
Annnnndd. . .Platinum!
Annnnndd. . .Platinum!
Essex-Colchester Point-Shelburne Point-Eseex. In the Friday mid-day HEAT. That'll make the pounds melt away....whew.
Essex-Colchester Point-Shelburne Point-Eseex. In the Friday mid-day HEAT. That'll make the pounds melt away....whew.
we put a little bike parade together and cruised down to the fireworks in the junction :)
To clarify : 1/2 to 2/3 of the pavement was missing on Gov. Peck in a few sections of the road, so down to a partial lane with possible undercut sections.
FYI : lots of popular bike roads are out in Jericho today
Skunk Hollow
Barber Farm
Gov. Peck
Plains Road
I got through Gov. Peck on a bike this morning , but 1/2 to 2/3 of the pavement was gone.
Rode yesterday afternoon. Got caught in a huge downpour on my way home! Soaked to the bone, but had a great time anyway. Ride On!
we put a little bike parade together and cruised down to the fireworks in the junction :)
To clarify : 1/2 to 2/3 of the pavement was missing on Gov. Peck in a few sections of the road, so down to a partial lane with possible undercut sections.
FYI : lots of popular bike roads are out in Jericho today
Skunk Hollow
Barber Farm
Gov. Peck
Plains Road
I got through Gov. Peck on a bike this morning , but 1/2 to 2/3 of the pavement was gone.
Rode yesterday afternoon. Got caught in a huge downpour on my way home! Soaked to the bone, but had a great time anyway. Ride On!
Ride when the rain is away....hot and humid.nice view of vermont.
Ride when the rain is away....hot and humid.nice view of vermont.
Nice ride last night! No wind, perfect temp, great fireworks!!
Nice ride last night! No wind, perfect temp, great fireworks!!
Thanks Andy and Skinny Pancake! Now I'll have to say I seldom win anything.
Thanks Andy and Skinny Pancake! Now I'll have to say I seldom win anything.
Good luck and get well Anita!
Good luck and get well Anita!
okay my team mates I have just completed a whopping 1.62 miles unmounted on the commuter bike. huge :-D smile. I am contributing once again! 5,000 points here I come! be scared! Ahhh, just dreaming. still recovering slowly and cautiously.
Cheers!
okay my team mates I have just completed a whopping 1.62 miles unmounted on the commuter bike. huge :-D smile. I am contributing once again! 5,000 points here I come! be scared! Ahhh, just dreaming. still recovering slowly and cautiously.
Cheers!
Congrats to Janet (my teammate) who claims to never win anything!
Congrats to Janet (my teammate) who claims to never win anything!
My favorite is Range Road in Underhill Center. .75 miles at average of 8-9 percent. Couple laps up that will tell you whats going on. Don't mind the gravel. Makes the 8 mile
return run feel easy.
I saw a video somewhere where a guy made a bike float using 5 gal, water jugs etc, if you google it I'm sure you'll find it.
So.....how does one attach floaties to a bike??? I think I missed that repair session. ;-)
Ha! Gavin welcome to my commute!!! ....and then the semi trucks coming head on too! don't forget them too!
It makes you stronger if not physically it will in tenacity!
Cheers
How does head wind blow in THREE directions at the same tiime? Tacked on some post work laps in Essex, had headwind on every lap, every vector on that rt 15, Sand Hill, Al Martin Dr. 2.88 mile triangle.
Glad to hear you don't have a fracture, Anita. Listen to your body and the PT... you'll get better before too long. I know nerve pain can shut you down fast.
so no fracture. PT time. Still no to little sleep...going on 3 days of that...can you say Zombie?? Thank you Gavin for words of advice. My ears are ringing as a result from going from a non medicine taker to Aspirin every 4 hours...it does help but trying to sleep with it is just unbearable. I would much rather be hiking or biking if I am going to be in that much pain!!! Oh well I guess if I have to go through something like this I could not have picked a better time weather wise. Thanks to all who are wishing me wellness.
Cheers
I don't ride far, but I'm a steady daily bike commuter.
Ouch been there. Bad aggrivated sciatica and l4-5 disc hernia. Sucks. Start w lots of anti-inflamatories, rest, get it calmed down. then start easy and continue doing yoga, w target on that lower back-sciatic nerve system. I went from the hospital to Mansfield Physical Therapy at Lang Farm got me back in shape pounding the r
oads with excellent results.
so I am awaiting the diagnosis to see if I have agrivated my SI or have a fracture in my Iliac or Sacrum or just an injured and very very angry Sciatic nerve.
Do not "fall over" on a bike at 56. Weird things happen apparantly.
I want to ride my Bicycle...but cannot even bear to deal with the pain it causes anymore.
Here is hoping I am not out too long, can get back to helping the Jericho figures, Team Vermont Commuters and my goal of reaching the 5,000 points by the end of September. The 5,000 points thing may not come to fruition if I am out for more than a week.
Cheers all...The thing that drives me crazy more than anything is that I have to use a gas car!!!!!!!!! Such guilt!
BTW Jericho riders---we appear to be posting at #14 nationally in the community rankings!
Sometimes I think that if I pick up every single bungee and tie-down I find on the side of the road on Rt 15, I could soon simply slingshot myself on my bike to work each morning....
Ethan, fwiw my books took about 150 miles to break in, good luck.
Finally back in the saddle! I had a great couple of commutes, and look forward to a better riding schedule!
Today was indeed perfect riding. Just wish my new brooks seat would break in before my ass becomes its own piece of leather.
That bike lane on Rt 15 Essex is something else, its so short, and its like riding on a race track to get to it, unless you ride on the sidewalk like I did.
Just perfect riding today. :)
Ed, be sure to refresh the screen after you hit the button I've noticed the number does not change until I refresh.
Endomondo will not allow me to log my miles in?
Injured . . . . sucks! Somebody crank those miles out for me.
That being said, often times it is the cyclist to blame. We like to run stop signs and ignore the rules of the road. Please be careful out there guys. This is another reminder that it is not just about how fast you get where you are going, but we have a whole reputation to uphold. Let this be a reminder to us all to follow the rules of the road, for our safety, the safety of others, and for the future of positive public relations.
My comment on the article was delete, where as the comment of a person celebrating the bike rider's injury was left by the WCAX editorial crew.
Eager to blame the cyclists so many are, yet few or no comments on the over 40k killed by auto drivers in the US. The guy on the bike was probably negligent, but he is just one. A bicycle can be had on the cheap by almost anyone, thus you get a wide variety of rider some qualified to be out there and some not. I can buy a baseball bat today, does that make me a baseball player? Non-bicyclist are perfectly happy to differentiate between bad drivers, yet lump all cyclists together.
http://www.wcax.com/story/22589021/police-cyclist-at-fault-in-collision-with-car
The link above has a story about a bicycle and car accident. The comments about this accident is what the majority of non-bicylists think about anybody on a bicycle.
This is the way Cyclists are thought of by the vast majority of folks behind the wheel of a ton or so of metal.
My comments about stop signs and traffic lights that actually stopping at them... and let us throw in signaling and being "visual" while riding can help start to change the minds of drivers.
The cars always win in the end and that is the reality of the situation. I don't like it and will do my best to try to get better conditions for cyclists BUT in the mean time...the car always wins and the cyclist always looses.
My 2 cents worth.
Nice to be back in the Saddle after travel and medical issues, I got down into the 200s place wise but looking forward to a rapid ascent, fingers crossed and weather gods/goddesses permitting.
Greg, I've not seen that one but think I should LOL.
Has anyone ever seen the Ray Bradbury classic story of the illustrated man with Rod Steiger? He tells three stories about the "skin illustrations" on his body. One story, The Long Rain, is about crash landing his space ship on a planet where a pounding, incessant, rain never stops. He's driven mad or close to. Sound like anywhere we all know? It's very compelling and terrifying and a lesson in fine acting.
Did anybody see the National Geographic Paper magazine photo of the "Round" elevated bikeway in .... Crap I can't remember the name of the city...near Amsterdam though. It was very very cool. Elevation that is the trick except for one thing all the car fumes rise instead of fall to the ground....Hmmm...but anyway it was really cool to see the picture. ahhh my dream a safe clean way to travel by bike, run or walk. I drive too but very infrequently. Cheers
Stephen-how about people riding against traffic? I say NO ;)
I have a custom when I ride of keeping in my head a tally of riders I see. I have a number of obscure and opinionated rules that I apply as to who gets counted, like no kids in neighborhoods, no adults on bike paths without helmets and, perhaps most obnoxious, I'll often skip recumbents (for shame!) What I'm really looking forward to is the day when it just doesn't make sense to count riders, because there are so many of them. The folks in Amsterdam would think it total silliness.
Rutland County down here, just ran into another guy on my ride this morning. I'm not alone!
Amanda, please feel free to give us a call at Local Motion as well. We'd be happy to help with your story. Jason -- 861-2700 x109.
Is anyone bike commuting in primarily rural areas? I'd love to have your input for a story I'm writing. [email protected] to pick a time to chat if you're interested. Thanks much!
I'm in the Upper Valley area, Tim.
First day without being on a bike in 40 days! Ahhhh! No bikes to be ridden in downtown Orlando Florida, though...Get one in for me in lovely Vermont this week everyone...
Not me, I am up in the Essex, Burlington area.
Any of you from Southern/Southwestern VT?
I am wondering if the prizes were selected yet?
Took a different route home tonight (to take advantage of the Cheese Traders garage sale) and saw a bunch of commuters on Dorset, Kennedy, Hinesburg Rd. and Williston Rd. Every one of them riding with traffic during rush hour and obeying laws. Lots of friendly cars, too. We can all get along!
Matt, I saw you WAY TO GO! I like your high vis gloves, I'm getting a pair.
Since my commute is my primary form of exercise during the week, I've started running one way and biking the other- its an interesting juggle of time and gear, and parts of Williston Road are no picnic, but It's working for me. So if you see a guy running on Williston Road with a blue and grey backpack, that's me.
Just found this site. Biking to work (some help from the bus) but during lunch it has been fun to bike around Lake Champlain. Better than eating two cheeseburgers at lunch time.
Erwin, Snob has the best commentary in this topic. TGNYC is far far from VT. http://bikesnobnyc.blogspot.com/2013/05/are-you-keymaster-because-im-gatekeeper.html
Bizarre video editorial by Wall Street Journal Editorial Board member in which she is 'appalled" by NYC's new bike share program. WSJ says "The bike lobby is an all powerful enterprise." Video is not intended as a joke.
http://live.wsj.com/video/opinion-death-by-bicycle/C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D.html#!C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D
Hilarious video editorial by Wall Street Journal Editorial Board's explains that they are 'appalled" by NY's new bike share program. WSJ says "The bike lobby is all powerful enterprise." Video is not intended as a joke.
http://live.wsj.com/video/opinion-death-by-bicycle/C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D.html#!C6D8BBCE-B405-4D3C-A381-4CA50BDD8D4D
I found some nice new pavement on Rt. 2 and 116 today. We need more!
Also found App Gap to be a scorcher of a climb. Bike computer read 103 F on the east slope. At least it didn't rain.
Been slowly acclimating to my new Giant Escape and planning for a 52 mile trip soon at a rail trail in Northwest VT!
Woo! I love to cycle!
Roger B Jr., almost time for your return to the saddle???? You and your riding is missed.
Cheers!
Yes Erick, you got the word out before I could. I was texted that 15 was paved. Now 15 is better than ever! other than the semi trucks. Thank you Erick and all!
Cheers
@ Anita Hall and other Rte 15 Jericho riders. Rte 15 between Saxon Hill and Weed was paved today sometime. I rode it just now coming home from work.
Nice job adapting, Anita! I haven't been up there, but heard Weed isn't even a road anymore. Stay safe.
TYPO!! only 9.3 extra miles per commute! My apologies for anybody put off by my error.
Cheers
Rte. 15 between Weed and Saxon is Knarly!!! BEAware!!! Going west kinda unsafe, going east Hold on and wait for traffice...you have to swerve out to Double Yellow line in a spot!!! I am now commuting Barber Farm Rd. from Jericho Flats due to unsafe conditions for commuting. An extra 19 miles in the day but at least I am safer and less Semi Trucks.
Cheers All!
Good on ya Heath! I sing this in my head when I ride my bike!
Cheers
"I want to ride my bicycle bicycle bicycle
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride my bike
I want to ride my bicycle
I want to ride it where I like " - Queen
It was a little bit brisk, but refreshing!
Yay sun!
Finally, some sun on a commuting day! It was only a week of rain, but it felt like a month. Enjoy the roads this morning. It should be a brisk but beautiful commute.
Anita. I hear you. I was already to commute by bike today. Bummer. Swimming at the Edge will have to do.
So, 4 inches of rain and washed out roads and shoulders....Maybe I can catch a ride later today. Absolutely no commuting from Jericho to Essex Junction this AM.
Bummer.
Cheers to you all!
Yay! Just crossed into the Gold!
Annie- I would love to explore that route. I often will ride to Underhill State Park and then back, but I would like to venture further.
Hey man!
Nice Jody! I took a cruze today to shelburne and was loving it!
Spent the day on the Causeway on Saturday for the first time, it was beautiful. We had a little picnic lunch out there too. :)
By the way... Sheldon area is just gorgeous. My favorite riding is North of Underhill. Not much traffic, nice rollers and hills. Let me know if you want any route recommendations!
Beautiful ride today along Lake Champlain, Georgia way, over to St Albans and up to Sheldon, ending with the hills of Fairfax, Fletcher, Cambridge. Fantastic tail wind and cool temps. And... my husband and I finally got to ride together. So fun to do some serious drafting.
I finally made it to lancaster NH and back :-)
Nuthing like bad roads in saint johnsbury to ruin a great ride. Other then that i love going out on a long solo ride and seeing the country.:-) if anyone want to join me for a ride hit me up in here and ask me.ciao for now
Took the scenic route home from work today -- over Smuggs Notch. Beautiful tail wind from Winooski to Waterbury -- Yahooooie!
I almost got taken out by a car door on King Street today, in the future I will have to ride down the middle of the road so I don't see my life flash in front of my eyes, it was a close one!
Can't wait to ride in this weather!
I love all the comments that keep us all riding. Vermont is tops!
I'm 60 and I can do it...what's YOUR excuse? :)
Trying to get people to join but they get completely lost and confused at Endomondo? Here's a quick tutorial I made for someone. I figure you can use it to.
If you're telling them so they can join your team be sure to tell them to stop at step 6.
http://thoughtfaucet.com/join-the-national-bike-challenge-and-btv-digirati-team/
I hear you Chris, will be joining you soon, I have to be off the bike for 2 weeks, medical.
We'll all be chasing you again soon, Chris!
Slowly sinking towards the bottom of the leaderboard :-(
yup I use full fenders, want to keep the road kill and auto juice off me.
Rode in Boulder last weekend and I left a little jealous - amazing biking opportunities right at the edge of town and into the Flatirons. Today I rode from Burlington to Bristol and back, and I am glad to say that the jealousy is gone. Vermont is bike heaven!
Tara, love that! That's the way I feel every time!
Take that, Depot Street. Take.THAT!
Ditto on the fenders. The right equipment goes a long way!
Jason,
Yes, you can! What matters is where you live (i.e., the zipcode you entered when you registered), NOT where you ride. Miles anywhere in the world count for your town, your team, your workplace, and for Vermont. So log those miles!
Best,
Jason at Local Motion
I am riding the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route in June. Can I log those miles?
Fenders will change your life.
Yea it was fairly warm, my only "beef" with rain riding is the beating the bike takes, and that some driver act like they are having a harder time seeing cyclists.
Rainy ride in wasn't so bad this morning.
Loving the riding conditions today and the apple trees.
Cathy,
Teams are actually open to anyone. They are affiliated with the workplace of the team captain (i.e., the person who founded the team), but anyone can join.
Best,
Jason at Local Motion
Hey, maybe someone can help me. I made a team, The Hinesburgers, and I intended it as for anyone who lives in Hinesburg. But it seems to be saying it is an internal team for UVM, simply because I made the team and I work at UVM. But that's not what I intended. How do I fix that?
Cathy: In the upper left you can toggle between "Local" and "National" and that will get you to the national rankings. But you might as well focus on local because VT will again obliterate everyone else.
Best part is, since we have hills, no one can accuse of having it easy.
There's a Budnitz in this silent benefit auction. http://auction.lcwaldorf.org/items/show/2khN5jkACjtGJWi Starting bid is will below retail.
For any Hinesburg residents - I felt like being on a team, so I created a team called "The Hinesburgers". Feel free to join if you live in Hinesburg!
Hi everybody. I'm new here on this website. How do these comments work? It seems like we're just seeing Vermonters' comments? Just people in the Burlington area or what? Anyway, here's my story. I live in Hinesburg and work at UVM. 14.1 HILLY miles, but very scenic. For several years I've been commuting once or twice a week on a bike with an electric-assist motor (it's still work for me, but easier). The bike is crap and rusting, so I was considering upgrading to a better electric bike. But since there is now a bus to Hinesburg, I decided to upgrade to a road bike (I also have a mountain/hybrid bike) and I can put the bike on the bus for the ride to work and just ride home. Maybe once I'm in better shape, I can do both directions in one day.
One rationalization that I have made for years is passing cars on the right, turns out it may not be illegal, depending on how you read the law. I do it slowly and carefully in a line of traffic in order to get up to the light/sign where I wait my legal turn once there. I figure I'm safer for a number of reasons plus I breath less exhaust. Further reading for you at 23 V.S.A s.1034 & 2301.
Daniel, one thing that you need to know about using the pedestrian signal to cross the intersection (apart from the illegality) is that you do not have the legal protection that a pedestrian does because you are on a vehicle. Further you cannot legally ride your bike inside a pedestrian crosswalk (the kind with the white stripes) even if it is part of a bike path, as I learned last year. Example at UVM we have a nice bike/ped path that has the “bike path” signs and everything that proceeds from the Davis center down toward the green and crosses University Place. During the crosswalk that crosses University place you are technically expected to dismount your bicycle and walk it across the street and remount on the other side or ride around that area.
I must disagree with you Amanda, indeed the rules were mostly made for cars, because like it or not they are the dominant presence on the roads and we have to play by those rules and by the lowest common denominator. Sure we have better visibility, but so do motorcyclists and they could begin to make the same argument that you have. The motor vehicle rules do not fit perfectly, but when it comes to intersections everyone can see you (and vice versa) and it is admittedly political but it really pays both in terms of safety and politics to treat those as sacrosanct. Are there rationalizations that cyclists make to be practical? sure But blowing stop signs/lights need not be one of them and generates a lot of bad will towards cyclists.
I generally agree with you Anita. However, the current traffic lights, stops signs, and intersections (in VT, but some places are adapting) have been designed for cars not bikes and cars. This needs to change.
Also I agree with Damon, when there is an empty intersection, or when a walk signal is going, I feel it is ok for bikes to make there way through reds. A lot of time it is actually safer so bikes can get out ahead of traffic instead of churning in the lineup between cars.
I think it's actually problematic to expect cyclists to follow the exact same rules as cars. The rules are made for cars, not bikes, and cities that emphasize cycling as a viable form of transport recognize that difference. When I approach a stop sign intersection, because I have much better visibility all around, I can see if a car is coming or not. I don't think that I need to stop if i don't see a car, and lose all the momentum I worked very hard for. I'm not advocating being a jerk, I just think the most important thing as a cyclist is to ride predictably rather than exactly as if you are a car. We aren't cars, and I know the laws so far act as if any vehicle ought to behave like a car, but they can change to enable more efficient cycling--we just need to make that happen! I don't think you deserve to be written off as a "bad" cyclist for running an empty stop sign intersection, or even a red light when there's no cars. Plus, the risk is really all the cyclist's if you misjudge, so the stakes are higher when you behave like a so-called "bad" cyclist. Darwin!
Thank you Anita. I bike from Essex Junction to Burlington almost every weekday. I wish cars would be concerned about my safety and bikers would be concerned about my safety. Bikers who run red lights and stop signs make it so cars do not know how to react when they see a biker come to an intersection. I often stop and wait for a car to finally go. Not to say cars are always in the right I get cut off daily by cars who speed past me just so they can turn right in front of me. I would also say that more thought should be put into this discussion than “just follow the rules.” It is much harder for the operator to get a bike moving again than a car so if I come to an empty intersection I will slow down look in all directions and proceed. We need more bikers out there so car drivers can become more aware and comfortable with sharing the road with bikers.
Glad to be back pedaling miles.
Anita - you say it so well. And you challenge bike riders who don't follow the simple rules of the raod? We should all do that.
"Give respect - Get respect"
Great to be a member of the Lyndon Bike Team. Harry Mueller
Good on you Anita E. Hall, I agree with you and hope that they get the message.
To fellow cyclists, especially the 3 guys who commute in Essex Jct. and Essex Center areas...Please stop at the stop signs and stop lights when riding. It has been 5 years of me conversing that one is to stop at stop signs and stop lights(when red) with these 3 guys and 5 years later they continue. I cannot begin to say what kind of influence you are imposing on drivers, children and other cyclists on what a bad cyclist looks like. I beg that everybody just stop and then proceed when safe. What you practice in your car is what you practice on your bike...what you practice on your bike you practice in your car...and yes I have had many vehicles run the stop signs and stop lights because they felt that no cars around why stop?
The Commuter B!tch will no longer call you out do to concern for your safety. Good luck because I am just over it. I just wish that there was some sort of support from fellow cyclists for being a safe, fast and polite cyclist instead of being called a B!tch all the time.
I always thought that points should be awarded by time spent in the saddle, but that's only because i can't afford a fancy road bike :P
Hey Richard, Finally got a photo posted!!!!
I disagree, by commuting on my bike instead of my car I am saving carbon and money. Mountain biking is sport riding, which is great, but does not take the place of driving a car.Which is worth more?
Yup Cody, I take your point, the intensity of off-road in terms of physical effort and training is definitely a different and more demanding thing.
Mountain biking miles should be worth 2X road biking miles:)
Hi Jason,
You're on my team! We want to make sure to capture every point! It's important that your email address attached to your endomondo program is the same one that you used to sign up for the bike challenge.
Lauri
thumb me in!
I joined a team, but my miles don't seem to be counting toward the team total.
John,
People can name teams whatever they like, and some folks have chosen to create teams with the name of their workplace. It ends up being a bit duplicative (since workplaces show up automatically on their own leaderboard), but if that's what gets people riding, all the better!
Jason at Local Motion
What's up with all the workplaces that are teams instead? Seems like a bit of a disconnect there...
Regardless, way to go keeping us in first place nationally! Keep it up biker gang!
Let's All Reduce Our CO2 Impact By Bike Riding To/From Work During The Months of . . . May 2013, June 2013, July 2013, August 2013, and so on. We can all do it!! :-)
Ughhhh . . . waylaid by an untrue wheel. . .
That's great David!
If anyone is a Facebook member and interested in more Networking with Vermont bicycling commuters, we have a facebook group called "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" cheers! Roger
What a week to launch the Challenge!! Woohooo! I wish I could have made the launch with the mayor.
Just joined Perkins Fitness, a new gym in South Burlington and will be riding in for my regular workouts there. plus riding to the 350VT office. pumped for this challenge! .
Lois -- your email address is your unique login. Each person has to have a different email address in order to participate. There's no way around it. You can easily create a gmail address for the second person.
Why can't I join two riders with the same email address?
Weather permiting I start commuting by bicycle at least once/week tomorrow, 5/1/13!
Welcome Anita great to have you aboard!
I hope that there is a good attendance at the May 1 Burlington event. I cannot attend. I commute to work from North Avenue near Leddy Park to Essex Town 14.1 miles 1 way.
I will not be free at the noon hour to attend this event. I will join the BTV team today.
Roger, I commute from Jericho to EJ so I have joined the VT Bicycle Commuter team. Sorry Gahlord but I do nothing with Burlington except maybe visit once a month if that much. I know there are plenty of cyclists in BTV to join your team.
In reference to Gahlord's note, I'm currently the only member of my team "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" I commute from Richmond to Burlington, and anyone who is interested is welcome on my team. Cheers! -Roger
I've discovered that those of us with teams from last year have to make new teams this year. We can't just get our old teams in. So if anyone else is scratching their heads over that now you know.
BTV Digirati II is going to be back and at it this year. Looking forward to the NBC!
Anyone commuting in the Brattleboro area?
Hello fellow commuters.
VERY short, very consistent commuting here, all of 0.51 miles.
(0.3 if I shortcut across the railroad trastle in a death-defying risk of life and limb.)
A shout-out to Montpelier Freeride for their help of shop time and fellowship.
FreerideMontpelier dot ORG, on Barre Street.
-- Alex
I'm not really a year-round commuter but my husband Steve Woodward has given me permission to join!
Sleeting here in VT, Getting tired of the bike stand and SufferFest videos...
I am thoroughly confusted.
I think I just rejoined the S Burlington Rec Path Committee team. Let's see if it takes this time.
Seth - are you REALLY going out today. I also rode yesterday and it was pretty darn frigid, but I'm gonna stick to the trainer today...YOIKS, it's nasty out there!
Today, 6 April was my first day out on the road with my bike this year. I rode about 16 miles on Northfield, VT with the high temperature at 36 degrees Fahrenheit. I’ve logged almost 700 miles indoors this year. It was nice to get outside again. I’m hoping to ride from Worcester to Elmore and back tomorrow.
Ahh the fond memories of this day last year! riding in full sunshine and sweating like there was no tomorrow! Today it is skiing instead of the bike...not too bad of a trade off. Sunday looks like the soonest break and hopefully next week I can start the commute on Bike! Cheers
This still isn't right.
Ah, I think I have done it by following Dana's instructions.
dare I risk it and say Maybe Friday a commute to work via Violetta II my precious work horse of a bicycle??? Saturday and Sunday Joy rides for sure!!! Almost time!
Kiel, you must be elated with this melt off that has happened. I finally got out for a pleasure road ride on Sunday and it was Glorious. I still need more daylight before I can do the commute. Cheers!
Kiel, you must be elated with this melt off that has happened. I finally got out for a pleasure road ride on Sunday and it was Glorious. I still need more daylight before I can do the commute. Cheers!
after a three week hiatus the roads were finally clear enough to ride to work again! temps are supposed to hit high 30s tomorrow, too, so that'll be a nice treat.
after a three week hiatus the roads were finally clear enough to ride to work again! temps are supposed to hit high 30s tomorrow, too, so that'll be a nice treat.
So I thought my gift at the end of the year was to be a bike ride....then it snowed just enough and then the temps dropped and the snow stayed on the shoulder of the road so no ride BUT I do get to Run again!!! Yippeee a healed foot goes a long way! Happy Holidays and New Year to all my fellow riders! Cheers!
So I thought my gift at the end of the year was to be a bike ride....then it snowed just enough and then the temps dropped and the snow stayed on the shoulder of the road so no ride BUT I do get to Run again!!! Yippeee a healed foot goes a long way! Happy Holidays and New Year to all my fellow riders! Cheers!
So I thought my gift at the end of the year was to be a bike ride....then it snowed just enough and then the temps dropped and the snow stayed on the shoulder of the road so no ride BUT I do get to Run again!!! Yippeee a healed foot goes a long way! Happy Holidays and New Year to all my fellow riders! Cheers!
Very cool Kiel! I am happy that you were rewarded for the beauty that is offered when commuting by bike. I missed out as I had to wait a bit longer for some day light to appear.
Very cool Kiel! I am happy that you were rewarded for the beauty that is offered when commuting by bike. I missed out as I had to wait a bit longer for some day light to appear.
Christmas lights!
Christmas lights!
saw the meteor shower on my ride to work this morning. very nice and made up for the cold!
saw the meteor shower on my ride to work this morning. very nice and made up for the cold!
Today and tomorrow may be the last commutes this year....I do want to ski and not have the Winter snows never arrive!!! Looks like Monday, Tues and Wednesdays may bring some white stuff...if not then my last commutes may have to be next week and dare I say a ride on Christmas Day?!!! cheers to you all!
Wonderful commute today and yesterday! warm at 27 - 30 degrees f and sunny and warmer on the way home. Nice way to celebrate December if I can't back country ski. Cheers
nice weather this morning, definitely over dressed and was a sweaty mess when i got into work. took a few days off to move into a new place, now my work commute is about a mile longer than before.
Yep it was quite interesting...crazy more like it. I miss my clear sunny calm non-school days commute in....ah dreaming until March arrives.
i've been getting up earlier and riding in the morning darkness rather than the evening darkness. less cars on the roads at that time. but i realize not everyone has that kind of flexibility when it comes to work hours. either way, be safe; i heard you northerners are getting some snow and black ice.
Kiel, wait until the baby chippys come out, talk about dodging creatures! So sorry you had to add hitting a woodchuck to your commuting experience. Poor little guy and you were very lucky you didn't fall! good luck on your commuting. I had way too much ice out this morning and very crazy drivers. I may have to hold out until Friday...Brrrr!...to ride to work and back. Day light is disappearing quickly and my route is very unsafe in the dark to dawn/dusk to dark hours. Cheers!
ran over a woodchuck yesterday. poor little guy didn't make it. it was dark out and he darted in from of my near harpoon brewery at about 5:45am. never thought i'd add to the road kill with my bicycle.
Awesome commute this morning! Little traffic and 29 degrees and sunshine...does it get better than that on Nov. 21st!
Cheers
Kiel, put tepid to boiling water in your water bottle to have warm water to drink on your ride in during really cold weather. Rain = sad bike for sure. all the grit that gets in the chain and cogs and the teeny tiny working parts makes my bike really sad and me very tired because I know I have to clean and lub my bike before bed to ride the next day. My commute will start on Friday and then I will ride Saturday and Sunday to see how the bones hold up. If everything is good I will probably start again on Wednesday ( I am a payroll queen and will be paying tons of folks on Monday and Tuesday so I have to stay after dark to complete work) and ride Thanksgiving day and day after and after and after etc. until the snow flies. You will get used to the cold. I draw the line at anything under about 18 degrees due to the harshness on my equipment. Get Booties if you don't have them, A balaclava is very useful...does not have to be thick, just to protect the skin. Also "oiling up" keeps you warm too. Almond oil, olive oil, Massage oils are good too for both warmth and to protect the skin. Good riding and stay warm! Cheers!
Glad to hear it Anita, welcome back! Monday was fantastic weather down in the upper valley as well, 50 degrees in the morning, 65 on the way home. I also took yesterday off beause of the rain (more for my bike's sake than my own, or at least that's what i'm telling myself) but I'm back in the saddle today. A bit cold, but doesn't feel as bad as last week. My water bottle only half froze on the way in, and the weather is calling for a nice northern wind to carry me home this afternoon :)
Okay, can I just state how awesome it was yesterday!!! I got to ride and 70 degrees...just stellar. The foot held up and the commuting can probably start next week. I will give a rest today...raining...and commute tomorrow and Friday and see how it all goes.
By the Way Anita, hope you're foot heals fast!
Indeed Anita you speak to a great point about carelessness on the road by drivers and how screwed up our society is in that regard. Auto crashes kill over 40,000 humans in the US every year. That is like have 13 of the 911 attacks every year, and yet people treat their cars like toys and shirk their responsibility. Guns kill considerably less people in this country, and yet if someone is careless with their firearm then the police are quickly called and all kinds of social pressure is applied. I once was carrying my rifle out to my car (on the way to the rifle range) and a neighbor saw this and got all concerned and started making calls. I sure hope my neighbor gets as concerned when he sees someone texting while driving! I doubt it.
Isn't it amazing (scary) to see what folks are doing in their cars while commuting? I have seen shaving, makeup application, reading books or newpaper, eating w both hands, working on the computer, talking on the phone and texting. It is quite frightening when the oncoming car driver you only see the top of their head. Hmmm. I do carry an air horn just incase it is needed. Oh yes the afternoon drunk driver is another fun thing to contend with.
I totally identify with the fact that the other drivers do get used to the cycling commuters on the road. I hope my fellow commuters don't forget about me when I get back on the road when my foot heals!
45 miles total, just under 23 each way. Happily most of the drivers on my commute are used to seeing me there. We're all just trying to get to work and we are respectful of each other on the highways. But that doesn't mean I'm not extra cautious. I've been clipped before and I know that all it takes is one careless driver texting or just not paying attention for things to go bad.
Kiel, Please remember, you must be able to have full trust in the drivers out there no matter how safe you are. I have no such trust so be careful. You are invisible during dusk to night and during any precipitation due to visual constraints for the drivers! I want you to be around to continue the 45 miles each day!!! reminds me of my commute days in North Lake Tahoe! Carry on but please if you have to, take that bus!!! cheers.
Kiel, you are amazing, 45 miles each way?
my water bottle was frozen solid by the time i got into work this morning. yesterday it was snowing on my ride in and was dark by the time i got home. not sure how long i can keep riding my full 45 mile commute. last year i started taking the bus which cuts the biking down to about 8 miles, but i'm trying to push myself further this year.
So as a person who is struggling with not being able to ride out of doors due to a stress fracture in my right 3rd toe metatarsal bone, one tends to get a bit bored. Other uses for Mt. Bike cycling shoes: if nice stiff soles they can be used on the foot with a stress fracture so one can use an eleptical machine and stationary bike and not cause furthur damage...IF VERY Careful. I figure two more weeks and maybe a flat baby ride out side could be in order. I just can't wait! Saw an acquaintance of mine on the road commuting home last night, she was lit up like a psychedelic holiday tree! Good going! Cheers to all of you lucky ones who get to ride! be safe and careful I want to see you out there when I get back to riding! Cheers!
My complements to all who rode in today, it was cold raw and rough out there this morning. Cheers and happy weekend.
My complements to all who rode in today, it was cold raw and rough out there this morning. Cheers and happy weekend.
Maintaining my updates on this site has definitely motivated my riding. I was determined to get in my 500 points for October, and do it before Sandy visits. Success is sweet! Tomorrow may not be a great day for riding, at least not for me. Be safe out there those of you who are braver than I.
Anita, so sorry to hear of your injury sending healing vibes your way. I totally agree with your point about being invisible, great point.
so I got a stress fracture in my foot....not bad but I have to be good. I am SO missing my bike and running shoes. Just needed to say it out loud...yes I was speaking as I typed.
Ride like you are invisible and the expectation that you will be hit by a car and you will survive the darker mornings and evening commutes! Just words of experience of the last 5 years of commuting on Rte. 15 in late fall and winter when there is no snow on the ground. Cheers to you all and ride on!
Kiel, glad you're ok, just want to add that it is not just a mater of expectations we are in lower light conditions. Wear high-vis clothing if you can, and add your lights, turn them on earlier than you think you need them and be prepared to ride slower as needed to stay safe.
Clipped by a driver in a tan minivan this morning as he was backing out of his driveway in Wilder, VT. Somehow managed to regain my balance and not crash. It could have been a lot worse. Just want to remind everyone that as we get closer to winter we need to be extra careful, drivers don't expect a lot of bikers to be out when it gets this cold.
Hey Folks, if any of you are interested, I run a facebook group called "Vermont Bicycle Commuters" if you are a facebook user and are interested in some networking with other Vermont Bicycle Commuters, jump on. Take care, -Roger
Brrr - first day I felt cold riding in.
Thanks for the St. Mike's info. That is very unfortunate for the landowner. Well at least I know there is a good reason for the path being closed. I take the same route down Florida Ave. to 15 then cut back on to St. Mike's it isn't bad but the left off of Florida Ave. onto the 15 sidewalk can be a little scary when it's busy.
Rt 15 - WINOOSKI COMMUTERS - As told to me by the guys installing the new perimeter road at St Mike's: the narrow shortcut between fences at the top of Florida Ave is closed permanently. Because of its layout I imagine we all assumed it was an actual right-of-way. But apparently the fence was put there by the landowner simply to keep people from walking/riding across his lawn. He kept it open to us all these years simply out of good will. But after the 4th break-in/burglary at his house in less than 6 months, he decided he'd finally had enough. And closed the route for good.
It's truly a shame we've lost that sweet little lane. The alternate I've been using when heading home from Winooski is to continue down Florida Ave to the bottom, then left on the sidewalk for the short distance uphill to the dirt path just before the steel gate. And then just stay left to get to that smoove new pavement we all waited so long for. The detour adds about a half-mile to my ride, but it still beats Rt 15.
Does anyone have any advice for a possible indoor bike trainer for my old 3-speed raleigh? I plan on riding outside as long as I can, but it would be nice to have an option for indoors for the dead of winter. I want to have something that doesn't cost a lot (under $100 ideally) that my dear old bike can hook into. Thoughts?
Kris I also commute from Essex. In the morning I take 15 all the way but I try to stay away from the 5 o'clock traffic as much as possible. The little path off of Florida Ave. onto St. Mike's was very nice.
I was wondering if anyone knew if this was going to be permanent. It looks like the construction is done but the temporary fence is still up. If there is some advocacy that could be done to get the path back I would be interested.
I think I can make that, thanks for the invite!
Kiel -- seeing as how you were the #1 rider, I'm really hoping you can make the party on October 21 (see the "News" column to the right). I'd hate to give you your award in absentia!
Everyone -- please come to the party! It'll be a blast. And who knows -- you might win the Sojourn vacation!
despite the rain, i found today much better riding than last week. i'd rather be wet and warm than cold!
Rode today in the rain and it was not very cold - next week it will be dark when I want to leave for work - I have to see if my workplace will let me adjust my hours so I can continue riding a little bit longer..
Agree Tanya!!! @ Anita - same here - I'm trying to continue riding but it's gotten really cold on my hands and face (even with protection) - I have scored a bike stand from free cycle so I'll be making my bike stationary for the winter. :-) But, will need to drive to work :-(
fading daylight, cold rain... I will have to decrease commuting to work to 3 days a week and then to just 1 until snow flies....I guess the cycling legs will have to switch to the marathon running legs. The problem is that I will HAVE to drive to work...no choice on riding when snow and rte. 15 are involved. See ya all out on the road 5 times a week next March/April! Other wise see out there running in the dark. Cheers!
@Damon----that's terrible! Eliminating that little path harshes my favorite ride through Winooski via LaFountain St. I so prefer to be away from the fumes and the traffic and generally use that Florida Ave path on my cut through St Mikes from/to Essex. Earlier this summer I worried that the construction project would ruin it and I am sad to hear about this loss.
So they cut the little path off from Florida Ave. onto St. Mike's campus anyone know the story on this?
Agreed Tanya!
I am loving the new pavement on 15, I am hoping to do a ride out to Underhill this weekend, so nice.
They should include September in the challenge next year - it has been beautiful riding weather! Went on the Mississiquoi River Valley Trail for the first time this week. I was thinking of going down to the Delaware-Hudson Rail Trail next week - any reviews?
Still no raffle winners for July or August...and when's the end-of-challenge party?? anyone know..
Rode under a flock of pigs flying south this morning. While rolling (smoothly!) on shiny new pavement on Rt 15. Some day they'll finish all the way to Jericho?
Attn Barre area commuters. Check out the new bike blockades aka "curb bump outs" they are building on Main St. Scroll to bottom of http://www.wedigbarre.com/ for the artist's rendition. Post up here or here http://www.facebook.com/vtbikeped if you're concerned.
Thanks for having this site available for tracking miles. It's been a great summer and still more bike weather to go. It's been inspiring to watch the miles peddled keep adding up!!
True indeed. But there seems to be no way to rank individuals, businesses, regions, states, etc in transport miles alone. Though I'm proud that our little corner of the country was tops in total points per capita, I'm curious how we ranked in transport compared to other areas.
Roger, Dick, go to your profile and Statistics, you can select to graph transport, sport, mountain biking, by day, week, month, year.
Roger, Dick, go to your profile and Statistics, you can select to graph transport, sport, mountain biking, by day, week, month, year.
good point Dick, Sport and Fitness riding are excellent and wonderful activities but transport cycling also helps our society more. Meaning trips taken by bicycle that would normally be done by auto. Just my opinion.
Any way to generate leaderboards for just transport?
Technical (website) question... has Endomondo stopped adding our miles to the totals?
Liz
Wait until you get back on the bike, Kiel. After 4+ days of rest you'll probably feel stronger than ever.
Bike is still in the shop, just as well though since it was pouring rain on my way in to work this morning. Still, though, can't wait to get it back. 4 days of no riding seems like an eternity now...
Wait until you get back on the bike, Kiel. After 4+ days of rest you'll probably feel stronger than ever.
Bike is still in the shop, just as well though since it was pouring rain on my way in to work this morning. Still, though, can't wait to get it back. 4 days of no riding seems like an eternity now...
I am so grateful to have found this event when I started out this summer. My initiation into biking as a main mode of transport happened when I asked God for help with my exercise program... well, within a week my car broke down for the 2nd time in a month and had an estimate of @$1400 for repairs (after just putting close to $2000 in the hands of the mechanics the month before!) So, there was my exercise program waiting for me - a green swinn 21 speed bike. I have logged 538 miles between April and Aug. Didn't help much with the obesity, but it sure has made me stronger!
Great job, Kiel!! Your rides have been inspirational, for sure. :)
I'm really happy with Explayration's 10th place finish for August, considering that at least one member of our team was unable to log in for past couple months (and never was able to get any help from Endomondo...), and one of our best riders moved to Scotland (hi, Kate!) and was unable to get a bicycle into her hot hands this month... Really proud of our little team!
Couldnt sleep in this morning, my body is too used to getting up and going by this point. So I didn't win one single month the entire summer, but it looks like i got first for the entire campaign in vermont with 6140 points! placed 118 nationally! i can't believe it. thanks to everyone here who has been supportive. im taking my poor bike to the shop for repairs and taking the long weekend off. then it's back to biking to work on tuesday!
Impressive finishes Kiel, Dana, Seth, and James!
Fun, painful and fulfilling! I plan to use all of the momentum to keep rolling as long as the weather holds up. It's been awesome riding with you Dana.
I agree.. Every part that isn't numb hurts, but it has been a great summer. Thanks to everyone for inspiring me to try to keep up. Any plans for a post-contest celebration?
Gotta say this was a ton of fun. BTV Digirati will be back next year!
~425 miles in the past three days. my hands are numb, my body aches, and my bike is going to the shop tomorrow morning. but it's been a great push for the end. im just happy to keep up with you roadies on my hybrid!
266 miles around lake Champlain with James Stoops yesterday. What a day!
No need to stop, join the ranks of the year-round bikecommuters and you won't have to get your body and butt back in shape in the spring. All you need are good lights and a few layers.
awesome, james! last day, lets push through to the end!
Got platinum today, just in time for the end of the challenge! I hope to keep commuting through daylight savings time, and it's been a great summer and a terrific online bike community. Go Vermont!
Congrats Kiel, Seth and I also did a big ride yesterday - my knees aren't swollen, but my achilles sure is!
yesterday i did my first 200 mile ride. started at 5 am and ended at 10 pm. my knees are swollen and every muscle aches, but at least i proved to myself i could do it. here are some pictures: http://imgur.com/a/ZJ5eO
Lauri so sorry to hear, last year I heard the same story the man's wheels were stolen. Hope they find it.
Warning to any of you who park your bikes at Fletcher Allen. My bike was stolen this morning from the McClure bike racks. Lock was cut in one of the most populated areas....
This has been good fun all, after Friday I will no longer be a serious contender in the challenge until it resumes next spring but want to thank all involved for this and wish you all the best -Roger Bombardier Jr. at UVM - CHEERS!
long sleeves in the morning and shortys for the ride home
looks like this is it for me. was planning a century ride tomorrow to finish out the challenge, but my rear derailer cable snapped and i won't be able to get it fixed in time. good luck to the rest of you. i think it's time for me to find a new bike after all the trouble i've had with mine over the summer.
If (from the Bike Challenge home page) you click National, then Leaderboard, then States; Vermont is looking pretty good!
@Tanya, indeed, I have spent some time in that part of the south and know what you mean. I suppose I mean backward relative to what I think they should be. Montreal puts us to shame on this front. Cheers.
yep, i lock up at palace 9, just weird that they don't have a bike rack.
Roger - I think it's all relative - after just moving from Atlanta where you basically take your life into your hands every time you ride, and there are really no bike accomodations Vermont is pretty awesome, I can ride to work, out to restaurants, the grocery store - pretty much anywhere I want to go....incredible!
This is one of my peeves, the lack of bike racks and when they are present they are almost always the crappy ones that make it difficult to lock back wheel with frame and front wheel. Vermont is so BACKWARD, with regard to bike infrastructure in general this way. You will often hear the long cold winter applied as an excuse but then if you make a trip to Montreal you see that it is just that an excuse. I will often seek out the Manager on duty and ask why they have no bike rack. At Staples in S. Burl, they person told me that there was some rule against them by the land lord.
foggy one this morning
i struggle with my mini u lock sometimes...for how heavy that thing is i should have gone for the larger size, but i do love it
A u-lock fits around the lightpost outside cinema 9.
Another place that doesn't have one which is surprising is Palace Cinema 9 on Shelburne Road. It's an easy bike ride there from Burlington, seems like a missed opportunity for them to talk about that.
I find the same thing wherever I ride. We asked Price Chopper in Essex to get a bike rack, but the property manager didn't want to put one in, really surprising actually.
I wish there were more bike-lock racks out there. I've been riding to places, and having to use other things to lock up to. Businessess don't really expect customers to come by on bikes, do they?
Will we still be able to log miles (for our own knowledge) after the end of August. I expect to riding until Oct. or November (if I don't find a motor vehicle I may need to invest in bike snow tires!)
Moved to the 1500 point plateau in style, pounding out my first Century Ride today! 100.7 miles of northwestern Vermont: St. Albans Bay north along the Lake to the NY bridge, south through the Islands to the Grand Isle School, then back to the bridge before heading back to the Bay. 17 mph average amidst a simply beautiful day. Whew!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch;feature=plcp
Ride of Williston perspective
Thanks for the routes, Tim and Benjamin! We are lucky to have so many options!
Back after being away for a week and a half, and then having to take the bike to the shop for brake (lines this time).... Really glad to be back on the road!!!
had a very slow leak on the back tire this morning, i made it in to work but just barely...it was a squishy last few miles, i am glad i left my car at work so i can get home tonight
Tim - thanks for the heads up on the path between Tech. Park and Tilley. I didn't know about that section! that would be much nicer than the Kimball/Kennedy and Kennedy/Hinesburg road intersections.
Kris - Here's an addition to Ben's options below: There is a great bike path that connects Technology Park where Ben & Jerry's is, to Tilley Drive which open onto 116. If you take a right out of Tilley and then you first left onto Hayes Ave it will take you through the Timberlan/Twin Oaks neighborhood and down to Dorset just south of Kennedy. I use this regularly on my commute from Essex to Burton and find it nicer than going all the way to Kennedy.
is anyone in burlington going down to massachusetts this weekend to do the D2R2? I have a ride down there, but not a ride back, trying to see if I can find extra space with someone! http://www.franklinlandtrust.org/randonnee.html
Kris - if you take 2a out of 5 corners towards Williston, then go right on Industrial, left on brownell, and right onto Shunpike Road. You'll make it over to Kennedy Drive. The path next to Kennedy is nice and you can take that down and around to Swift, or you can head out Hinesburg Road and into Butler Farms neighborhood, which also connects up to the bike paths on Dorset and Spear. If you go down Allen Road, you'll have bike path on Route 7 all the way to Heritage. Hopefully that makes some sense. Depending on where you're coming from in Essex, it could be longer but it's all big shoulder and bike path.
Perhaps Local Motion has lost interest. The board riding team is quiet.
An awful lot of people have quit logging. > 2/3 of registrants are radio silent (including Chapin and Rebecca, including me, including a lot of people). Many of those still plugged in are reporting modest rides (Mayor Miro has ridden ~6 blocks in the past couple of months; he and Secretary Racine started strong and faded to black). I'll reveal a secret: without GPS logging is tedious. Unless you ride the same route every day drawing long routes takes time, and there're other things to do in summer than sit in front of the computer. I suspect the same applies to news announcements: in May it's exciting, in June it's inertia, in July it's a chore. By August there are more important chores.
Commuted from Heritage Toyota through S Burlington to Essex this morning, since I had to have the car in the shop. I cut through Syzmansky Park to Swift St to Kennedy Dr to Airport Parkway/Lime Kiln, per Googe Maps for bike routes. Any tips out there for this afternoon's ride back to Toyota? Thanks!
Hah! Kiel's right, but Tanya's not the only one who noticed there were no local prize drawings announced for July. :)
love it!
We're all winners, Tanya.
Were there any winners for July?
We are so fortunate in Vermont and Chittenden County! Friends visiting from the greater Philly and Hartfort CT areas this week were amazed that I can cycle through beautiful landscape on my commute. I was led to believe that in their respective territories, bike communiting is fraught with difficulty and is not so nice on the eyes.
my legs are dead right now...rode route 7 from st albans to essex with lots of challenging hill climbs, the one in milton was the last tough one...time to refuel
Oshkosh B'gosh.
Kris - workers don't mind if you continue to cut thru St Mikes as long as you stay well out of their way . You may have figgered it out by now, but a nice friendly route: left (north) on 2A from Pinecrest, right on Old Colchester Rd, left thru Essex High School, left on 15 for 100 ft, right on Densmore, right on Brickyard, left on Countryside to end, continue straight on bike path to Essex Way, cross that at first crossroad, over 289, bear right on bike path. Puts you back on 15 at Saybrook Condos entrance. It's a bit longer, but just as fast due to missing all the lights.
Hi, Bruce (Jamieson), the group ride you saw on the 28th was the "Epic Bike Ride" that is part of the Old North End Ramble, an annual community celebration in Burlington. Join them next year. They start on Decatur Street at 5 PM on the last Saturday of July each year.
Hey everybody- winter's a ways away but I wanted to let anybody who is interested about Vermont Indoor Cycling- if you're a lonely basement indoor bike-trainer type when it's cold out and you want to do a weekly indoor group ride with us, please have a look at our site: http://vtindoorcycling.blogspot.com/
I'm also offering basic bike work in South Burlington at a flat rate of $15/hour plus the cost of parts to help raise money for VTIndoor- please check the link above for details!
Glad to hear you're OK Dave. It can be scary out there, that's for sure. I encourage your thoughts on wearing a helmet. Even the most careful riders can't avoid all careless driving.
Dave I am so glad you were able to walk away. You can always get another bike but there is only one you. Around two weeks ago a friend of mjne got hit while in a crosswalk.He messed up his back and elbow and ended up getting fired for missing time from work.
Wow the wind is strong today! Definitely made today's ride feel slower, even if it was at my back for half of it. My legs are spent!
222 bike riders encountered on 2 hour ride Winooski to Ethan Allen Homestead to Delta Park to Oak Ledge and back to Winooski; about 180 on lakeside bike path from Delta to Oak Ledge (skewed by 1 group of about 25--Locomotion?). 90 degrees apparently not deterring bikers . . .
I'd like to thank the driver of the van on Pine St. that realized, as he approached me, that he did not have a safe pass and yielded to me so that I could pass the truck stopped on the shoulder and in my path. Much appreciated!
james, did i miss any good information after i left?
good discusstion last night, i really like all the ideas and options for the alternate routes...i really have been enjoying riding through st mikes campus and then through the fort on the ride home from burlington to essex center
I cannot attend tonight's meeting at SMC, but I have been riding from Winooski to Jericho all month. I REALLY enjoy Lafountain St, and would even recommend taking Rte 2/7 all the way up to Pho Dang and turning right onto LaFountain instead of fighting traffic and hills in downtown Winooski Falls. The route that Benjamin Bloom showed below features a cut-through option to SMC at the end of Florida Street that is currently closed due to construction, so riders need to cut back down to Rte 15 for about a block or so until swooping back on campus. Lafountain St is marked as a bike route and the bike lanes build into Fort Johnson that cut all the way to Fort Ethan Allen are comfortable and safe. I always take Pinecrest because I don't like fighting for a lane through Essex or taking the bumpy sidewalk, nor do I enjoy breathing tail pipe! An added bonus to Lafountain-SMC-Pinecrest is there are fewer stop lights and I feel like I can FLY.
i will be attending this
Speaking of winooski to Essex, there's a meeting about that route at St Mikes tomorrow. Got an email from local motion about it.
awesome. Benjamin Bloom, you are the man.
Zack, I usually take this route: http://goo.gl/maps/HqLe3 If you're lucky, the 2a entrance will be open and you can take Pinecrest from Susie Wilson to that entrance. If not, you're stuck on 15 for a mile or so. Either way, this avoids almost all of the 45mph/no shoulder section.
hey all - i am planning to ride from downtown burlington to the champlain valley expo fairgrounds in essex tonight for the wilco show - just wondering if anyone with experience going from BTV to Essex has a suggested route - there are some parts of 15 that sort of suck for riding, with speeding traffic and no shoulder. What do you guys think? any help would be appreciated.
went for a motorcycle ride today couldnt believe all the cyclist out wanted to join them
I saw a hoard of around 50 cyclists in Burlington Vt today. Anybody know what was going on?
Has not been the best biking week for me. I'll be without a bike for a week as of next Thurs. I will be doing lots of walking! Had hoped to get to the 1500 points this month - but not sure it will happen. I've got a few more days, so maybe!
Happy Riding everyone!
i am glad your ok brian, what happened?
Yay! Ribs are almost healed, can't wait to go for a real ride again this weekend.
The light show from the storm system was beautiful biking to work at 10:30pm 7/23.
Saw this on CL today, if you lost a tool wrap on Route 30, someone found it! http://burlington.craigslist.org/bik/3157133426.html
I wonder if we can make it to double WI's score by the end of the month. :)
did a little riding in portland yesterday...nothing like riding along the ocean
Did anyone do the Tour de Champlain on Friday?
Matthew B--thanks for the grip tips!
Saw a beautiful doe this morning at mile 25.8 of my 32.2 sunrise ride along the Maquam Shore of northern Lake Champlain ... Such a wonderful way to start the day.
Kris- pull the grips off and clean their insides and the surface of the bars with dish soap. Rinse really well and dry thoroughly. Re-install the grips. If you can't get them back on, use water only to make them slippery enough to slide on and then let everything dry for a day or two. They should stick well that way, if not, they may be too stretched and it is time for new ones.
Lovely morning commuting through Winooski! Thank you kind Lafountain residents for beautiful front yard flower gardens that make me smile as I cruise past! Riding comrades, does anyone have tips for hand grips that slide off vintage cyle handlebars during sweaty weather?
More commuting thoughts:
http://re-turn.blogspot.com/2012/07/you-shall-not-pass-or-why-all-cars.html
thank you for the birthday wishes...my wife and i are headed to maine for a few days to camp and goof around....we will be taking bikes with us too
Happy Birthday (belated) Jody!
A moose on Duxbury Rd is worth knowing about. Thanks, Brian. Happy Birthday, Jody!
38 fast miles!
Did the ride to st Albans again today, so fun! It's my birthday too! Woo hoo!
I had an very interesting ride today when a moose came out of the woods in front of me on Duxbury Road in Richmond. It stopped about 25' in front of me. I decided that I would yield to him since he took the lane and then some. He stood there in the road for a minute then looked behind at me and ran back into the woods. Apparently the 175lbs of bike and rider was too intimidating for him and scared him off. I have to say that was a first!
Elizabeth, the gears are a bit different on bikes than cars for example. Just because you have 21 gear combinations it does not mean you should use every posible combination. Generally you should use your lower gears together, middle gears together and higher gears together. Some combinations can lead to derailing the chain (high gears and low should not be used together because they result in cross chain). Ultimately you just need to shift so you can maximize your performance whether you are climbing, descending or riding on a level road. I wouldn't worry about associating a number to the gear - it really doesn't matter considering every rider is different and there are many different chain ring combinations available.
"Technical Question" - I have ridden since I was young - mostly bikes without multiple, switchable gears. A couple years ago I bought a Schwin with 21 speeds. I am getting better at switching gears but realized today I have no idea how to identify the gear/speed I am using... I can say I have gone from peddling with the left indicator on the 2 and going through the right changes 1 - 7 and am now strong enough to be peddling with the left indicator on 3. So, is 1st gear (left 1/right 1) or is that 21st gear? Does this make sense to anyone???
It was a very toasty day, but since it started out so chilly I think my body grew accustom to it as it warmed up. along route 2 was definitely the hottest. I brought two panniers with me and used one strictly for food and water. Really beautiful ride though, glad I finally found the time to do it.
nice job Kiel! i feel inspired
Toasty day for a century, Kiel. Way to go!
did my first century ride today. Got to see what this Williston road bike lanes were all about. You Burlington folk have it good!
I'd love to be using the new bike lanes on Williston Road to get home from Williston to South Burlington, but i live off 116 and thus have to negotiate the southbound left turn through the intersection. I have yet to find a good way to do this. It is really hard to get over into the left turn lane from the bike lane, and if you ride straight through the intersection and use the pedestrian crossing, you end up on the 116 sidewalk or in the "right-only" lane headed into Price Chopper. If the bike lanes end up being there to stay, I'd love to see Vermont's first "bike box" at that intersection as well to facilitate the turning movement.
frustrated with a flatbed tow truck - I gave my hand signal to pull to the left, my view from my mirror showed ample room for the truck to slow down and yield... instead I suddenly hear him braking and honking his horn at me - yelled something to me when he whizzed past! Luckily there was no oncoming traffic so I was able to make my turn before the truck reached me... home safe and sound now...
Matthew,
I agree with you. Most motorists seem to have no perspective on cyclists. It seems that most motorists feel entitled once they are behind the wheel. Motorists need to remember that they are no more important than anyone else using the road.
Require cyclists to have a license to ride on public roads, and require a Bicycle Operator's License (with road test!) as a prerequisite to even applying for a license to drive a motor vehicle.
i like this...this way the motorist gets the perspective of both cyclist and motorist
New blog post:
Require Cyclists to Have a License to Ride on Public Roads!
http://re-turn.blogspot.com/2012/07/require-cyclists-to-have-license-to.html
nice, i would love to do a century at some point, perhaps i will start with a 50 miler and a sleep over and 50 the next day
agreed, Jody. was just thinking about how great the weather has been lately. Much better than the rain we got back in May. Thinking about doing my first century ride this weekend if the weather holds out.
smooth riding this morning
there has been an annoying metallic squeak coming from somewhere near the crank and i discovered it was my pedals...i had to service the bearings tonight since they were bone dry and a little rusty on the set closest to the crankarm...i lubed them up and they are as smooth as butter now and no noises
returned it at omar and bob's today. they didnt have any of the same tires in stock so they will call me when one comes in. very nice about it. it must have been a dud.
wow, at first i couldn't tell what was going on there...it looks like a worn out soccer ball when the outer layer peels off
WOW! Kiel take that back to where you got it, they should replace it, refund you if not take your money else where. That's a manurfacturing issue for sure.
Went to ride for my morning commute and found this nice surprise: http://i.imgur.com/XZ0uc.jpg This ever happen to anyone else? The tire is only about a month old...
Thanks, Ben! I think we'll take the roads to this week's Summervale, too, then!
Arden did NOT help. He sat in the Burley trailer and laughed at us... actually, when I think about it, that was kind of a help. ;)
Hey Bethany - I rode it yesterday. There are still downed trees. One of them requires lifting your bike over it, the others have paths around them. Lifting a Burley trailer must have been interesting! Did Arden help? :)
On Thursday, there were 3-4 fallen trees on the link between the 127 bike path and the Intervale - the part that goes next to the river and through the fields. Does anyone know if they've been cleaned up? (We were riding our bikes to Summervale, and had to lift a Burley trailer over a BIG tree . . . pretty funny, but we took the road home!)
Rode out to Charlotte today, it was gorgeous!
It was in the dip just as you ascend to the highway and the railroad bridge.
127 was smooth sailing when I went through yesterday - no trees in the way. I only rode it from the Old North End to the Intervale today. Where was the fallen tree?
Has the fallen tree been cleared from the Route 127 path?
I rode the Route 127 Path today. Entering at the trail-head in the old north end. I was moving very well downhill and got tricked at the fork by the "No Motor Vehicles" sign with the "No" spray painted over. One way is a service road, the other is the bike trail. The bike trail path is the marked with "No Motor Vehicles" and I read it as "Motor Vehicles." It confused me enough to make me slow down and loose my momentum before the uphill climb. I had to laugh because I couldn't believe I almost fell for it :)
The trail was excellent though this morning. I pretty much had it all to myself during the 6am hour. Such a peaceful Sunday morning ride.
This is why I run a front brake, it really helps on the downhills.
Kiel, I too thought climbs would be a challenge, but you get a surprising amount of leverage when fixed. The most challenging part for me is riding down. Your legs can really get moving quick on a steep downhill, this is exactly how I stressed my knees, peddling too fast for my own ability.
David,
Were the vehicles standing still or moving? 23VSA 1139 can be easily construed to permit passing on the right in standing traffic.
Wandering around downtown during my lunch break, I noticed the Montpelier bike cop repeatedly passing cars on the right, which is disappointing even to those of us who cannot quote 23 V.S.A. §1139 from memory. I realize that men with guns generally make their own rules, but one would hope that a bike cop would at least set a good example of cycling.
It seems my gear ratio is good overall for the terrain here.
I also ride fixed, but right now I've got my flip flop on the coaster side while my knees recover from some stress.
saw a couple roadies with bad luck on my ride into work this morning. one had a flat and forgot his pump. I offered him mine but he said he had someone on their way to pick him up. Another had their chain fall off when i came up behind them. Keep those bikes tuned and always carry your tools!
also, Jody- I'm impressed! I can't imagine riding in vermont on a fixie. I need gears for those hill climbs!
Yep, the only bike I ride is my fixed Steamroller. I took it on a ride up to St Albans too, 38 miles or so. It's been fun.
Jody - there sure has been a lot of damage...I've been riding my track bike on the nicer days, it's a great way to mix things up and keep routine routes interesting. You been ridnig fixed the whole time?
I saw a lot of damage this morning on my ride to work. There was this one sign at a gas station that was leaning just a bit. The wind was ferocious.
I ride on a vintage 3-speed Raleigh. :) She's my Penelope and I love her.
Jason -- the valet bike parking was on the east side of the railroad tracks, opposite the north end of the Seventh Generation building. Sorry you couldn't find it! We're constantly improving our signage to help people find us, but a big factor beyond our control is where the event puts us.
Looked for, but couldn't find Local Motion's valet bike parking in Waterfront Park. Where was it?
Is anyone else doing all there riding on a fixed gear rig?
For anyone going to the fireworks in Burlington tonight, Local Motion is offering free on-site valet bike parking. Leave your bike with us and we'll take care of it while you go enjoy the fireworks!
Anyone riding in the Bike Parade tomorrow morning? I will be there with my wife.
I see wrong way cyclists all the time on the bike lanes in Burlington, this is quite aggravating to me when the arrows clearly go in one direction.
Indeed Sara, those cyclists do lots of damage to us all in terms of public opinion.
Don't forget to follow the rules of the road! Just because they don't require cycling licenses, doesn't mean we can be rude at 4-way stop signs or ride on the wrong side of the road. I almost had a head-on collision with another biker yesterday. He was making a left turn at an intersection on the far left side of the rode, while I was making a right turn. We didn't see each other until the last second. This is no fun to deal with when I'm driving my car, either.
It's a good morning.
Some folks mentioned fenders, they are a good thing for bad weather as well as all the other nasty stuff that is on the road that you do not want splashing on your face...think roadkill. Anyway cool discussion folks HAPPY FRIDAY!
I rode in the rain on thursday, broke a spoke and didnt notice it. headed out to work this mornig thought the bike felt funny hard to peddle. my husband came to meet me on way home, and told me my back tire was bent really bad. so took a trip to get bike fixed wont get it back until saturday. I think ill have to break out my rode bike
Part of my commute includes a long, steep hill - and braking in the rain or on wet pavement makes it a frightening ride - so I choose not to ride in the rain - I either walk or carpool with co-workers/neighbors. Am quite happy to see a sunnier forecast for the weekend so I can get my errands done!
Back at it after a couple days off!
Did anybody see if the Williston Road complete street pilot was striped last night as originally planned?
My commute is dangerous in the rain and getting caught in it is no fun. I do not ride in rain on purpose. Route 15 Jericho into EJ is not nice in rain. I have only missed the forcast/radar for commuting twice in 6 years. Yesterday, my comment no rain in Jericho but pouring in Essex Ctr. into the Junction, and two years ago got caught in thunder, lightening and rain/hail/high wind....that was SCARY!! When I got home trees were blown over...I almost thought I was the wicked witch of the West...or is that East?
Fun is anything you survive and can giggle about afterwards. BTW, I am all decked out to include clear goggles so I know my stuff but sometimes that ole radar is not lined up the the county outlines quite right. Oh well back on the bike tomorrow! Weeee!
No riding for me for the past couple of days, but I have been carpooling with my wife.
I feel like I need to equip myself with a clipless setup and some of those cycling sandals. What I really need is a rain bike with full fenders
i get rained on constantly. the upper valley, especially through white river, is pretty rain prone. also have gone through sleet and hail a few times. it's not fun, but it's my commute. i clean my chain every other day it seems, but even then i've gone through a rear chain ring and a chain in the past month and a half.
I love riding in the rain. I greatly prefer riding in the rain to simply riding on wet pavement, which leaves shins (and drivetrain) coated by grit despite full fenders and mud flap. I have not noticed much difference in traction between wet and dry pavement, except to the extent that sand gets washed onto the road by flowing water (though my awesome Conti Grand Prix tires probably help by having no apparent limits). Drivetrain wear is the only problem that I have with wet conditions. Riding every day year-round, my chain (Campy 10-speed) goes only a thousand miles before wearing past 0.5%.
I should also say ... even on the days when the forecast is for 100% rain, I rarely really get rained on. This morning is a great example. It was raining like crazy as I was getting ready. I put on all my rain gear and biked in without a drop from the sky. This happens to me much more often than getting surprised by rain w/o gear.
I ride for transportation, but I typically extend my commute by a few miles to enjoy some more time outside. I feel better when I've had some exercise and I rarely regret going a bit further. I ride in the rain, snow, sun, and everything in between. I agree with Matt - much like VT's decision to have "Safe roads at safe speeds" in the winter, I ride more defensively in the rain. I also have the pleasure of riding primarily on bike paths, which reduces risk significantly.
So, is it a necessity or fun? Well, it's both.
Riding in bad weather makes the good-weather rides that much better. Equipment alone isn't always the answer. It can mean riding more slowly, too. Brakes/tires that are unsuitable in the rain at 20mph may be just fine at 10mph. I ride for fun and for transportation, and since I am 1/3 of a one-car family, my riding supports us in our environmental and economic goals as well. I wouldn't call my commute a "fun" ride ever anyway. (Just the nature of suburban riding in Vermont with minimal bike infrastructure and lots of dangerous intersections.) I guess my point is that where there's a will, there's a way, and compared to the financial impact so many people are willing to inflict upon themselves by owning a motor vehicle and driving it as a single occupant to and from work every day of the year, slowing down to make rain/snow riding safer is a small sacrifice.
There's also Win-a-years-supply-of-toilet-paper fun. :D
Unsuitable equipment includes bicycle brakes. Any bicycle brakes. There simply isn't enough rubber on the road to work effectively when that road is wet. Also, unless you ride without eye protection, rain is blinding. So riding in the rain is inherently, dramatically, less safe. It's also, for nearly everybody, dramatically less fun. So, let's ask: why do you ride? If it's a necessity, rain is an obstacle and a serious hazard. If it's purely for fun, well, one has to wonder: do you know no other way to have fun? I mean, seriously, does riding through anything seem somehow more noble than adapting to conditions by maybe, I don't know, reading a book? Or cleaning your bike?
There's happy fun, and there's defiant fun. I enjoy fun, so I choose fun likely to lead to more fun, which means cheerfully backing down in the face of danger. Death-defying, to me, isn't fun at all.
There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing [/equipment]. ~Alfred Wainwright
National Bike Challenge will be won in the rain. :)
No doubt that riding in the rain is harder on the rider and equipment, as well as being more work to clean up the bike and drive train after. I still think that it is well worthwhile to ride rather than sit it out, after all VT has so many rainy days, seems like you’d miss an awful lot of riding if you let rain stop you. What do others think?
Riding my bicycle to work today in the rain, a large truck splashes me on the way by me it says “Eco-Energy” on the side.
The rain is getting in the way!!!!
So this morning Jericho no rain, hit Essex Center and pouring!!!! Hmmmm.
the following is a Platnum smiley face. :-)
I believe I just floated for half the trip home...one of the wettest rides in a while!
one of the best decisions i've made was to go clipless. i grabbed a set of dual platforms so i could still tool around town with regular shoes if i choose.
I have been considering a clipless set up for a while now...going to do a little shopping\testing soon.
http://www.re-turn.blogspot.com/2012/06/i-need-sign.html Thoughts on right-only lanes and other barriers.
David, happy belated birthday! You're a great guy and a wonderful inspiration!
Added a shift at work---extra money AND an excuse for an added 10 mile commute!
Just upgraded my roadbike from toe clips to clipless pedals and got my first pair of cycling shoes. A nice lesson at the shop, a chance to practice on a stand and then the parking lot, and a 13 mile ride tonight - I'm getting the hang of them. Very excited!
Nice work Jody and Elizabeth!
half way to platinum....
way too hot to bike so it's been a lower than usual week...
Woo Hoo! I made platinum today!
I am so proud to be part of this bike challenge, I feel more connected to my community. We are killing it as a state! Nice job!
I am about 60 points away from platinum....hot one this morning!
I made Platinum today!! :)
Nice job on the ride David! Happy Belated Birthday!
Go, David, go! And happy belated birthday. :-)
To hear of your adventure makes me happy, David! Way to go and Happy Birthday! I know Smuggler's Notch is NOT a trivial climb.
Thanks, Elizabeth. It was a blast. I met my son in Stowe and we did a couple of rides, including climbing Smuggler's Notch on Father's Day.
Hey David... did you ride 70km on your 70th birthday??? Happy Birthday!
Ask me if I rode 70 km on my 70th birthday.
70 miles last week!
Great day yesterday in the "Ride for the Lake" in Grand Isle County. Did the 55 mile option. Felt great.
38 miles!
Rode to camp in st Albans with my brother in law, gorgeous ride!
Sorry to bore most folks with this technical glitch but I have managed to solve it. Good to share in case anyone gets the same issue. I was logging my miles through the monthly screen, which worked fine in May but not in June. I have now deleted my June trips, and re-entered them through the weekly view. They are now registering properly, including on the Leaderboard. Case solved. Time to move on.
i thought yesterday was heavy traffic with plenty of A**H drivers (route 7 towards Milton ),but Saturday sure top it off with plenty of Truckers going 60 plus MPH with Zero remorse if they take up not only entire road,don't slow down,don't go around out but tried to take you Out.GO TO HELL LOWE'S TRUCK!!!sorry people i had to vent!!!
yes it was
This is how I felt as well, people need to open their eyes a little. Was this downtown St Albans?
Jody I was biking in St. Albans today and it was like the cars didn't even see me. I had to just about ride in the grass, and forget about stopping at a cross walk and getting off your bike to cross because no one will let you.
Glad I'm not the only one with trouble. I'm going to contact Jason offline as logging out and back on, rebooting or anything else I've tried isn't getting June to register anything. I logged my first June riding on th10th, so now on the 15th, something should be showing on the Leaderboard for June.
Ryan & Jill...Your point total shown on "home" is your total to date; if you go to leaderboard it defaults to showing only your current month (June) points. You can use the dropdown menu to verify all mileage to date. That being said, I've noticed delays of 15-30 minutes before newly logged miles are reflected on the Leaderboards. Hope this is helpfull.
today felt like a**hole motorist day....what gives? it's beautiful out and it's friday, i guess they are angry because they are driving cars
Some thoughts on this morning's ride in: http://re-turn.blogspot.com/2012/06/getting-honked-at-for-taking-lane.html
Jill....i'm also having some odd things happening. My profile shows twice as many points as what I have on the leader board for the State. It seems random when things update. I thought maybe it had something to do with logging miles manually vs with GPS.
Hi Jill -- Jason at Local Motion here. June seems to be working fine for me. Sometimes miles are slow to post. Try logging out and logging back in. Let me know if you're still stuck -- [email protected].
No biking today, but almost 600 miles on a train ;)
Hi,
Is anyone else having trouble getting June rides and miles to register? May worked perfectly. My June rides show I logged them, but no points are showing up. Any tricks or tips? I have sent a message to the Endomondo folks, but wondered if anyone else has dealt with the same issue.
Thanks, Jill
Thanks Brian, just got his number from someone else too. I'm contacting him soon.
Hey James, have you talked to Hubert d'Autremont? Not sure if you know him but he's right here in Burlington and his work is on-point. [email protected]
So... if anyone's on the Burlington Bike Path between Oakledge or North Beach, or on the roads leading into either park, please keep an eye out for a plastic mailer with my name on it. Bought a t-shirt and it bounced out of my rack before I could even try it on :(
On a side note - going back out to look for it was a great excuse to get another 7 miles in the saddle tonight.
I'm looking for a steel frame builder in the burlington area who can look at a damaged frame and tell me what my options are. Ideally they're smart, honest and reasonably priced. Anyone know anybody? Thanks
I totally agree with you Zack. I do drive a car occasionally so I have the perspective of a motorist as well as a cyclist. Good riding this morning, it was pretty warm right from the start.
Who knew it would be sooo much easier with air in the tires! haha
Didn't think to bring my goggles this morning, it was like riding in a snowstorm!
wish i looked at Karls comment this morning I would have joined in. Sounds like alot of fun.
Don't forget - Saturday 9 June 2012 is World Naked Bike Ride Day in the northern hemisphere. Come to Freeride Bike Co-op, 89 Barre Street in Montpelier, before 14:00. It will be a short ride but a lot of fun.
http://www.worldnakedbikeridevermont.us/
I think if the people who do this (buzz cyclists, get mad at people for taking the lane, go past us going 55 MPH to send a message in a 35, right cross us, etc.) rode bikes in the streets they would understand what it feels like to be on a bike, and might not be so passive/aggressive. So try and get people who don't usually ride their bikes out with you for a bike ride! The more people that experience riding in traffic, the better.
Oh I wish I still had my 72 Raleigh Sport. It got swiped in the fall from out back of my work. If you see a "lime"ish green 72 Raleigh rolling around, please tackle it for me.
And they didn't charge me an arm and a leg to get her road ready again! I really appreciate that. (Going to pick my old girl up this afternoon... maybe I'll get a little ride in after work, if the thunder storms stay away!)
You are so right, Astrid! OSH is supportive of those of us that rock vintage rides and they are really helpful in getting us back on the road ASAP. I sport a 1978 5-speed Columbia Tourist V and find that despite my Jericho-Essex commute, I can take the hills pretty well on my old gal, and Old Spokes Home has been instrumental in keeping us in top form!
I was riding home from work, and my shifter broke! (I'm on a vintage 3-speed Raleigh) Luckily, I was near Old Spokes Home, so I brought her in... she's already fixed, but I won't be able to get her until tomorrow.. it's a kind of withdrawl. (I'm looking at my first sub-100 mile week since I got her in the beginning of May... first I was out of town for two days, and now this!) But, thank goodness for Old Spokes Home - their rates and prices seem very reasonable to me (and I even got new tires put on her for good measure - hers were I think originals and cracking...) I also used my Safe Ride Home from CATMA and got cabbed home for free!
Beautiful morning for a bike ride to work!
Absolutely beautiful morning!
Yes indeed, I just don't understand why people can't just wait a couple minutes for a cyclist to move ahead and to the right.
safe practice Jody , I always do the same people are not smart enough to know that it would be unsafe to pass you on it. I have had many an encounter with a driver that felt I was wrong for doing so, but if it means I am getting off the bridge under my own power, I don't care how they feel.
I got buzzed by someone yesterday after coming off the bridge in Winooski. I was in the lane on the bridge so I was probably holding him up a bit, but I always take the lane for the short time I am on the bridge. As soon as he could get by me he sped up and left very little room.
Guy in a green Explorer squeezed me out of the lane coming up Marshall again. Lady in a Maroon Volvo with two kids bikes in the back passed me with about three inches to spare just before the MTP roundabout, then brake checked me at the MTP/Williston Road intersection when somebody coming out of Simon's going left failed to yield to her. Time to start taking the lane more.
Kate - I wonder if Reykjavik has a bike share program?
Iceland is great! Have you been before? I'm jealous - I'd love to go back. It's so beautiful there and the people are really friendly. You're right - probably easy enough to get access to a bike in Reykjavik, but possibly not other places. Still, if you're staying in towns along the main route (1?) you might get lucky & find a bike for a while.
Benjamin: I'm going to Iceland! I'll probably be able to do a solo bike tour in Reykjavik while I'm there, but I don't think it's plausible for an every day thing. :)
J. Gregory -- have you tried selecting "all sports" from the drop-down menu at the top of the display area for team data? This should pull in all kinds of biking. Only catch might be if anyone on your team is using Endomondo for something other than the bike challenge -- in which case it might pull in how many miles they swim...
Im on vacation in Lake George right now decided to bring the bikes and to my surprise there is a 17 mile bike path it has long hills but alot of fun. From now on my bike is going everywhere with me
J. Gregory - A few weeks ago, I noticed a similar issue and logged it. Endomondo responded, but I haven't figured a way to see if my issue was ever resolved. https://getsatisfaction.com/endomondo/topics/national_bike_challenge_points_mountain_vs_transport
Kate - any chance you can borrow, rent, steal a bike for a few minutes each day? A quick trip around the block is all it takes!
I suspect there will be lots of days with reduced commuters this week, given the forecast. Today, even though it was pouring all morning before my ride, I had a dry commute in. No rain falling from the sky and fenders+clothes to keep the rest of me dry. I was pleasantly surprised!
Luckily, biking is the best (read: cheapest) way for me to get to work, so whether or not i want to, i'm forced to every morning and afternoon to do 22 miles. this month is definitely a non-compete month for me though, as I'll also be on vacation this weekend hiking on the long trail.
Kiel, I shudder to think about next week, when I'll be on a non-biking vacation. I'm not sure I can come back from a week of not logging miles. ^-^
Hi, Jason. I just realized that on my team summary, only transport miles are reported. But do the sport and mountain biking miles get included in the National Challenge for Vermont's score? Is something amiss with the setup for the team (Vermont 2) or are the teams registered in one category of riding only?
Hi everyone! Jason at Local Motion here. Quick note to highlight a couple of our top riders for the month of May. (I'm doing it here rather than over to the right so the note about the prize winners stays on top.) Here are a few that deserve special mention:
Stephen Barner logged the most miles (1315) and the most points (1874).
Kiel Alarcon logged the most transport (i.e., commuting) miles at 1006.
Local Motion's own Dan Hock had the most trips (121) -- that's almost 4 a day!
Keep it up, everyone. Vermont is leading the nation. With all of you riding (and recruiting your friends!), we'll keep the top spot right through to the end!
i know how you feel, kate. i lost my number one spot because i got lazy the last couple days of the month and had no idea that people were saving their miles to enter them last minute. felt like a poker game. and i even biked in the rain.
Yay! I'm going to use my prize money on new tires for my uncle's old road bike so I can stop commuting on a mountain bike! Thanks Local Motion!
Ha! Bummer! I plummeted by about ten spots for May cause I didn't ride in the rain the other day ^^ That'll teach me to slack off. :D
David Olson a member of the East Coast Enforcers and Vermont State Employee was right crossed last night while out logging miles for National Bike Challenge in Ascutney last night. He is home recovering today with minor injuries, just a reminder to be vigilant of all the dangers while out riding.
A chilly start to the ride, but it was blissful after I got moving.
On the cusp of attaining GOLD and it wont update... :-(
Beautiful ride on the BTV bike path, Leddy to the bridge and back. Anyone know what the cllotbes pin trees are about?
Yes, I am experiencing that, too. Must be the final crunch for many submitting hours for the end of the month.
OMG! Boy bits and you just started wearing padded shorts!!! protect those puppies!
As well as the man parts, I am a male Jody.
Jody got to take care of the girl parts!! padded shorts are the best. Enjoy the additional comfort and miles.
Platinum looks just out of reach. It was a good shot. I'm going to Montreal with Local Motion on Friday.
Hi! I just joined and am wondering if anyone out there is riding from FAHC to the New North End of Burlington at/after 11 pm who would like a riding pal?
VT'rs should click over 100,000 miles for May and we are still in the lead in the national challenge!
I just started wearing padded bicycle shorts and they are wonderful. Why did I not try these out before?
got a little dicey coming home but i made it!
National Bike Challenge will be won in the rain. :)
Now I'm kind of glad that I didn't bike in today!! Yipes!
and here is an actual link from the national weather service (HT To Seven Days): http://forecast.weather.gov/showsigwx.php;warncounty=VTC007&firewxzone=VTZ005&local_place1=2+Miles+E+South+Burlington+VT&product1=Tornado+Watch
Ride safe tonight everyone, looks like the t-storms are coming back through, and there is even a tornado watch. (not sure about how reliable this site is, posted on twitter, but it is certainly going to be stormy). http://chittenden.countyvermont.com/burlington/weather/warnings/;start=1338309000&end=1338339600
"A woman needs a man like a fish needs a bicycle." G. Steinem..... course she didn't say anything about a woman and a bicycle!!!
Just back from a nice loop on Greenbush and Mt. Philo - quick stop for brunch in Shelburne. Gorgeous day here in Vermont - the best state for cycling and the one leading the challenge! Does that mean that we have more cyclists per capita than any state in the country or do we simply get out and ride more...?
Took a great ride on the bike path with my kids (age 6 and 9)... Biking is a whole lot slower with the kiddos along, but when I think of the good it's doing them, I don't mind coasting along behind them. :)
Marathon Day -- Lots of path users. There are still several Trail Repair Update boxes that need to be refreshed.
Just back from riding a nice loop up N Williston Rd to Rt 2 and back on 2A and Center Rd...N Williston was a fun climb.
As of 7:45 pm Saturday, Burlington did pass Madison and is the #1 community in the nation on the leaderboard.
Dogs. In particular the ones that you don't own. Thoughts?
It's a nice day to pedal to Shelburne Farmers' Market (9am-1pm). And Local Motion will be there, too!
If you're returning north via Spear Street , try climbing Falls Rd/Irish Hill or for something a little easier, head north on the sidewalk to just before the Laplatte River Bridge on US 7, then turn right onto the new bike path that parallels Webster Road. It ends just a bit short of the Quiniaska intersection.
Burlington is about to overtake Madison on the communities National board for first place. :)
How do you keep your iPhone charged while extending your commute to help Vermont crush the competition in the NBC? BTV Digirati team member Benjamin Bloom uncovered this: http://www.bike2power.com/ Don't play Angry Birds while cycling.
Enjoying seeing all these great communters!
Thank you, Shane! Interesting reading. Lots to think about!
Rachel thanks ,that answers my question and makes it official Team Culture Cycles can count me in:)Yeahhhhh!!!
Jody - you are lucky! I was biking in against the wind, and it took so much more work it was almost ridiculous. (Looking forward to the ride home, though!)
Melissa- You can definitely be on the same team and have a mix of people riding 50, 115, or 25. Brian - hell yeah to a Culture Cycles team! Count me in!
Brian K, thank you for the info and invite:) Could you tell me what ride is the team riding, 50 miles or 115 miles? I have a friend that would like to join as well ,but she can only do 50 mile ride. I tried Looking up the rules ,to see if we can be on the same team and ride 2 diffrent rides( few of us to ride 50 miles ,and few 115 miles) .Any clues? i would feel bad leaving one person to ride alone.
The wind carried me right into work today, I hardly had to pedal.
Tracey,
Best tire pressure depends on what you're looking for, and what type of tire you are using. There is a case to be made for erring on the softer side, see here:
http://www.rivbike.com/kb_results.asp
Food for thought,
- s
Awesome--thank you for the info, Brian! (I'll have to look at the tires again to see what they are.)
Hey Rachel / Melissa, you looking to join a team for the ride? I've got a few friends signed up and the more the merrier! http://www.harpoonpointtopoint.com/p2p2012/culturecycles
Tracey - are you running 26" wheels or 700? Sounds like a range for 26" tires. If you're riding predominantly on pavement, I'd recommend staying within +/- 5 lbs of the max pressure to be most efficient and avoid pinch flats. If you really wanna dive into tire tech, Sheldon Brown (RIP) is the source: http://sheldonbrown.com/tires.html
Can anyone point to a good site that talks about air in the tires? There's a wide variation listed (35-70 lbs) on the tires of my bike, so how do I know what's the best tire pressure to keep for efficient riding? Thanks!!
Days like this, you wonder why anyone wants to be in a car . . . !
Rachel thanks for the support:).I did 70 mile ride for Montpelier Library last year,that was a breeze.Needless to say the issue i have is finding people just to ride with me ..:( i'm willing to bring it down a notch and do 50 miles on this ride in hopes of finding few people and creating a team.
Melissa - you should do the Harpoon Point to Point full century ride! This year'll be my 3rd, and it's my favorite benefit ride. You've certainly got enough time to train... Just a thought :)
Hey Everyone any of you intrested in Riding a Harpoon point to point 50 mile ride.(August 11th).I need at least one or 2 more to have a team.Ride is for VT foodbank, does have 60 doll Reg fee plus min (150 to be rised).This ride should be fun :) Please get in touch if you would like to join the team and get in on this ride.:-)
Great ride this morning!
What a day!
good point damon...i have been taking any chance i can get to ride
Hey All, I just rode the route for the Burlington Emergency Shelter Ride for the Homeless, and it looks sweet! The ride is on June 2nd come join me!
Sign up here
www.beshelter.org
Misty morning commute.Nice way to start the day!
Woot! We bumped up past 1k riders in VT!
Me too! :)
Timed that ride perfectly. 5 min after I got home it started to rain!
I just went on a lovely evening ride to the spot where the Colchester causeway has washed out and back... really hope that it can be fixed up for next season! So pretty!!
Jody, you get 20 points a day for riding at all, so if you are in any close competitions, just go for a mile spin to keep making progress with 21 points.
I took the day off so I could rest my legs a little. People do that, right?
Had a wonderful trek to Montreal this weekend from Sandbar State Park. Highly recommend this route! Very flat and a beautiful ride.
Seth, even if you didn't note a license plate # or make of the car, it would be worth you reporting the incident here: http://www.localmotion.org/education/safestreets/reportrecklessness (it's a short online form the police use to track trends of recklessness).
Thanks Benjamin! I came home from downtown on the Homestead Bike Path yesterday, and if I can pick that up off North Ave, I'll be good to go. :) (Yesterday, I crossed over to the Island Line trail and did a nice 12.5 miles or so home... it was such a gorgeous day!!)
Narrowly missed a direct crash turning into my driveway this afternoon. Signalled left turn for 200 yards before my driveway, looked back saw a car maybe 100 yards back. Signalled left turn vigorously while taking the lane for left turn. Signalled "slowing", heard aforementioned car approaching from behind, began left turn with my front wheel on the center line, car appears to my LEFT fully in the other lane just as I am turning left into my driveway. Barely avoided the car as it sped by. WTF?
Astrid, it depends on the time of day and if you're willing to take a little bit of an extension. I think you'll be able to come in on 127 and work your way over to the Homestead bike path (entrance off of Ethan Allen Parkway) that drops you out in the Old North End. The Island Line bike path will be bogged down with runners. Run Vermont has been doing a good job of communicating road closures and whatnot on their Facebook page. Here's a link to one PDF http://runvcm.org/elbo/assets//StreetClosuresAndTrafficAdvisories.pdf and another link to the KBVCM course map http://www.vermontcitymarathon.org/page.php;pname=marathon_course_maps
I rode to the grocery today. Wore a backpack and got everything on my list including a gallon of milk!
http://4sq.com/Je5DB6
Does anyone know what the marathon route will do to the bike path next Sunday? I live in Colchester, and have to get into Burlington for work at 10:45 AM... anyone have any ideas as far as my best route? Or am I going to have to give up and drive?
Bob Schermer and I rode 70 km while scouting the Day 2 ride for the 4-Day VerMontreal Ride. We found some quiet back roads and avoided some busy highways. Parc Yamaska is still lovely.
I commuted to and from work today, absolutely gorgeous. I think I will have a beer and rest my legs a little. ;)
I guess it all depends which three gears. I've got 7 technically, but it's geared fairly big so I might take your three speeds on hills if the lowest gear is right! I agree, though, there's no shame in walking a hill.
Agreed Jane, I would not want to climb many hills in VT with jst three, but some would anything more then 1 is to many
The route with the covered bridge is gorgeous, Astrid!
My 3-speed does hills really beautifully. I'll absolutely look into the route with the covered bridge! How wonderful! :) (And I am also not against walking hills if they get too hard... Do what you need to, right?)
Am I the only one who thinks any of the hills on the way to Philo would be impossible on a 3-speed? Maybe I'm just a wimp, LOL.
You can also take Spear St. all the way out to Spear st. extension and then hook around on dirt roads to Ferrisburgh and then up to Philo from the south. That is a particularly beautiful ride and gets you off the main roads for a bit.
Astrid. Do the Philo tour. The worst of the hills is near Philo, but take 'em easy and they aren't too bad. Mostly just the typical Champlain valley rollers.
I would love to do that ride to Philo. Can we organize a group ride on some weekend?
Today was gorgeous, but someone did give me the old right hook when I was riding into town....grrrrr
Astrid, from Burlington, follow Spear St. south, turn right at the covered bridge, then right at the T a few miles later, and you'll be at Mt Philo. Some hills, but not horrible. Lots of easy stretches.
We have a plan of biking from Burlington to Philo, have a friend drive my kids there, hike up the mountain and have lunch, and then bike back (with a bike rack on the car in case we are too tuckered!). Sounds like a wonderful idea, but I don't want to regret it. lol. (I'm riding a vintage 3-speed Raleigh, she's lovely, but not a mountain bike!)
Astrid - everything in vt is a tiny bit hilly, but the ride out bostwick road and greenbush is awesome. i think the toughest part of it would be cutting over to mt philo (i can't remember how hilly that part of the ride is).
Has anyone done the route from Burlington to Mount Philo? (Not on rt.7 if possible...) Is it tough? Hilly?
46,000 miles,that's pretty impressive- way to go!!!!
Yeah it had me scared too!
@Gahlord I'm listening to "Male Pill pt. 5" by Squarepusher. It went quite nicely with the motion of that rear tire.
Hail last night. That was interesting. Drove enough water in to put my Garmin on the blink too.
@Gahlord, wow that rear wheel had me scared!
Oh yes! Perfect riding weather today.
Been out of town. But there was a "bike" in the garage of my host. I logged my ride. I made this video. National Bike Challenge. Dedication. http://www.youtube.com/watch;feature=youtube_gdata_player ;)
Everybody's doing the local motion...........time to start going big tomorrow...........half the month is over and I don't even have 1/3 of the training miles in yet...........mostly due to the wet weather I believe.............c'mon c'mon c'mon let's do the local motion.........
So excited for the nice weather streak about to start!
rained on me for a hot minute on the ride home, then stopped. then, just as i finally reach the door the lightning started and instant downpour. good timing on my part i suppose. hope you all were safe out there.
Got in a small accident on the ride home from work today. No blood, so got up and kept riding! On a happier note, I managed to avoid the storm (just barely) each way. Started right as I got there and ended just as I left :)
Welll...... I *almost* made it home before the storms hit... luckily, got very very wet, but not hailed on or struck by lightening...
Thanks Zach! -:)
Tire lever, wrench for removing wheels (bolt on) spare tube, mini pump, a very cool wooden bike tool from Soma. Some of this fits in my little saddle bag and the rest in my backpack.
if you need to replace a tire and you forget your levers, this is the way to do it: http://www.youtube.com/watch (really just posting this because people refer to it as "the Gandalf technique", and I find that to be hilarious).
It was the back, my rear tire is starting to wear thin (picture: http://imgur.com/b2SUr) but thankfully the replacement i ordered comes in today. should be more puncture resistant than my previous one.
I had a double flat last week and ended up walking home because I only had one spare tire with me. I now have two tubes and a patch kit in my saddle bag (and levers!) I also keep a chain quick-link, a bike tool, a Gerber multi-tool, and a spare set of disposable contact lenses.
What else do you folks keep in y our commuter bag?
Flats are the worst...I am going to make sure I am prepared with a repair kit. Thank you for the reminder. ;)
Kiel -- bad luck, front or back? I dislike a back flat! I'm sure others do too, but invariably, I get "nailed" (no pun intented) on my back wheel! Glad you had a good ride.
got a flat tire 5 miles into my ride in this morning. lucky i had a spare, but actually forgot my tire levers. 20 minutes and two very sore thumbs later i was up and running again. no problems the rest of the way in.
So today I found out my car needed $900 in repairs. The mechanic said "It's hard to replace a car for $900," and my first thought was "True, but I can buy a pretty nice bike!"
I feel fortunate that the rain held off just enough so I could ride home last night. My shoes were pretty soggy and I did pick up a lot road sand. I wiped my chain of this morning and I was good to go.
Darn it! Thunder, Lightning during my commute time! I Had to drive and I hate that! Good luck to those who do not have my predicament (sp). Cheers!
I forgot how much better warm and wet is than cold and wet.
Winooski to Williston this morning in a misty drizzle. Fun ride.
I was totally comfortable this morning in short sleeves and shorts, the subtle spray felt pretty good too.
I have to head over to that end of the bike path sometime, Brian! :) I love the bike path!
Just rode around on the freshly-paved sections of the Burlington bike path south of Perkins Pier and they are amazing. Nothing like smooth asphalt.
Thanks Lyman, I definitely want to check one out!
Jessica:
Randonneuring is a French long distance cycling sport and 200k is the shortest event. They aren't races but they do require that you finish in a certain amount of time and be able to navigate the route. Saturday's ride was a no frills self supported event, which I think is typical. We got a cue sheet with the route at the start and pizza at the end. There were 17 riders. Most people rode in small groups of 2 or 3. I spent about a third of the time riding with different people and the rest riding alone. Along the way there were stops at bakeries and mini-marts where we had to get a card signed to show that we rode the route. The guy organizing the vermont rides has some pictures of past events on his blog: http://littlecirclesvt.com/category/brevet/
I took the bike path from Colchester into work in Burlington this morning. The extra miles barely took any time (I normally go up North Ave), but the nature was glorious and so incredibly worth it!! I <3 VT!
Just a reminder that this is also Way to Go! Commuter Challenge Week. More info can be found on www.waytogovt.org
Good riding this morning, GO VT!
Trillium on the path through Essex! So lucky!
Short rides for me until I fix my front tire. Bought a new tube yesterday.
Lyman. Can you share some details about the rides you posted, checked the site but was wondering if you could share personal feedback.
GMBC Kingsland Bay Ride for me and several Steele Street Streakers. Nice day
I rode my first rando ride yesterday a total of 141 miles including getting lost and riding home from the finish. Their next ride is the Champlain 200k/300k. http://nerandonneurs.org/nersite/
Just went for a lovely ~15 mile ride up the bike path.. what a glorious day!
Zack Luby: Bringing the stick shift to bicycling. Hardcore.
Destroyed my front derailer this week when I was taking off in traffic, put a ton of downward force on it and drove it with my sneaker right into my big chainring. ahahah. Sweet! Protip - you don't even really need a front DR to ride the bike, you can use a stick to shift to the different front rings (you have to be stopped to do this!). So for now I basically have a 8 speed bike instead of a 24. New chainrings and FD are on the way, but it is putting a cramp in my style lol. Hope everyone is getting out for a ride today! It's a beaut.
Very cool, it always keeps everything nice and dry even though I may get soaked.
@Michael That's a good idea! When I'm commuting to work my backpack is full of my lunch, my work clothes, my giant bike lock, and whatever book I'm reading...not really conducive to good riding posture!
@Jody, I look it up and that is one CLASSY bag. :D
Michael's tip about putting your items in plastic before putting them in your bag is solid even if your bag has been advertised as "waterproof." Everything leaks eventually.
I love my Ortlieb roll top messanger bag, my favorite bike item for sure.
Hi Kate, Michael L has great advice! Even with waterproof panniers I put all my clothes and "objects" into plastic bags as I have zippers on my panniers and water some how will find a way in to dampen contents. Get that back pack off your back and get panniers. Your body will thank you for it in so many ways! You will be much safer too!
@Kate - A waterproof backpack could work, though when I bike commuted (now a telecommuter) I found two alternative strategies to be successful. One option is to get one or two waterproof panniers. They accomplish the same thing as the backpack, but get the weight off your back making for a more enjoyable ride. (You could also get non-waterproof panniers and on wet days just put your clothes in a plastic bag before tucking them into the panniers.) The second option is to leave a couple clean outfits in the office more or less permanently. That way if your clothes get wet from the rain or if you get greasy changing a flat or whatever, you're still fine.
I hope this devotion to biking continues to flourish after May is over. Ten miles to work and back today, despite the sogginess. I'm getting more savvy about keeping my work clothes sog-free. Should I invest in a waterproof backpack? :)
I know some people are having issues with team members' workouts not counting or showing up on their team pages. I made a support ticket about the issue. If you're having this same issue you can flag it as "having this problem too" to raise the profile for endomondo. https://getsatisfaction.com/endomondo/topics/team_not_updating_with_team_members_workouts
Great 20+ miles today with friend Lyman Ross, out from UVM on Spears to Thomas Rd., up Irish Hill, cross over to Dorset and back home through Nowland Farm Road, back on Spear, nail that last hill up to UVM.
I'm not familiar with that intersection Matthew, but in VT it is perfectly legal & acceptable to pass stopped cars on the right if it is safe:
23 VSA § 1139. Riding on roadways and bicycle paths
(a) A person operating a bicycle upon a roadway shall ride as
near to the right side of the roadway as practicable, exercising
due care when passing a standing vehicle or one proceeding in
the same direction.
[Reply to Matthew Boulanger I
"On my way home through the Kennedy/116 intersection last night- waiting with traffic to cross on the green light- a roadie in all-green kit (Not GMBC) pushed past me and passed all of the stopped traffic on the right to get first in line at the light. C'mon dude- just wait with traffic already, you made us look bad!"]
Barbara: Champlain side of the path still has about 20 yards of road crew on it south of North Beach. You can get by though. They were laying the barrier pre-paving when I cruised it late this AM. Didn't see tar machines though so I bet it's going to be a few more days.
Hollie...I would love to join you on a moonlight ride....I just have to get some lights on my bike!! That sounds like a blast...is the bike path all put back together and safe for nighttime riding?
It wasn't supposed to be this rainy this morning (according to weather.com).. still, I biked in to work (~7 miles) with a change of clothes. ;) There's something crazy when your commute leaves your fingers pruney..
Michelle, what is the "double Solstice century"?
thanks! i figure whether it's rain or sweat either way i'm going to get drenched, might as well go for it. the real challenge is keeping the bike clean and operational.
Kiel nice commitment the last few days with the foul weather, I was going out tonight regardless but was thankful myself the sky stayed shut!
How do I turn on calories burned for my team?
Double drat! Flat tire on my ride home today. Will fix it before my commute tomorrow, I get to use the handy tool my son gave me for Xmas.
Drat! Flat tire! No bike commuting today...
I am planning on commuting tomorrow and Friday and then it's time to log some 'fun' miles this weekend. Fun means not commuting in traffic and also not lugging my gear with me.
Middlebury/Ap Gap, prepping for double Solstice century, we'll see if I can do it again...
@David J - No problems importing a .gpx from Strava...can't speak for MapMyRide, though.
it was hard coming home today. the cold and wet was really wearing on me. three more days til the weekend, then at least i can ride on my own terms!
I logged a ride to Middlebury in MapMyRide and then exported it as a GPX file. Then I tried to upload it to Endomoto several times. No Joy. Any experiences to report on this function?
Thanks everyone! I hit OGE for some rain pants and a jacket. Tomorrow I'll get the spare shoes/socks going (today just went wool so it would at least retain heat in the wet). Should've got bright stuff but didn't think it through or read the messages in time. At least there are reflective stripes. Setting my lights on epileptic seizure in rain/twilight so I hope that helps a little. Fun to be in the muck. Next up is finding some fenders. Wonder if those hipster Civia flats fit my bike.... Much fun in the wet everyone!
Thank you both for the ideas, I will be picking up some fenders real soon. Have fun out there!
Hey Jody, you seen these clip on fenders by Planet Bike? They're designed for road / track bikes with little to no clearance or fender mounts: http://ecom1.planetbike.com/7017.html
Jody - you can always use zip ties to mount fenders if there is no way to mount them easily to the frame. is a simple, if inelegant, solution that makes any bike fender-able! to zip tie, you just drill a couple holes in the fender, run zip ties through those holes, and use them to keep the fender up off the tire. not sure how much clearance you have, but i bet that would work.
the SKS longboard fenders keep almost all spray off the rider, they are sweet. fantastic protection.
i am not a hard core rain rider, but do ride in the rain.
just wear the regular stuff that you would wear if you weren't on the bike. if you are commuting to work bring dry clothes (and dry socks and a separate pair of shoes!).
I need to get some fenders for my Steamroller, but I need to find a way to mount them. I think people have mentioned P clips before. I need to look into this pronto.
Gaylord,
seasoned rain rider here (just biked 23 miles in this morning in the pouring rain). Fenders are great, but only for protecting your bike from road grime. You have to accept the fact that you're going to get drenched. If your not going far, water proof clothing might be ok, but I've yet to find something that will keep me dry, so the most important thing is to stay warm. I wear a high visibility vest over a long sleeve button up flannel shirt which is over a long sleeve under armor coldgear compression shirt, two pairs of underwear and wind pants (I find wind pants dry quicker so you can wear them again on the way home). I have a pair of water proof panniers that are a godsend so I keep my clothes in there. I also keep a towel in my office and baby wipes (no showers here). Make sure to clean your chain rings and chain at the end of the day with a brush and oil it again.
On my way home through the Kennedy/116 intersection last night- waiting with traffic to cross on the green light- a roadie in all-green kit (Not GMBC) pushed past me and passed all of the stopped traffic on the right to get first in line at the light. C'mon dude- just wait with traffic already, you made us look bad!
I would love to meet for a moonlight ride, I work in Burlington so I could just meet up pretty easily. I didn't ride today because of the wind and the rain. I want to get the right gear so I can be prepared to ride in any weather.
Gahlord, make sure you are very Visable!!!! the fenders, dry clothing stash and rain pants/jacket are all important. Just remember the drivers can't see as well! Good luck and Cheers!
Gahlord,
Nylon pants (I got a pair of Mountain Khakis at OGE) are nice to ride in when wet...nothing is as miserable than riding in wet cotton pants.
Ditto for fenders, I had to get a new set of full coverage fenders (extends past 9 o'clock on my rear wheel) because my old set (short, removable fenders) were too short and still gave me a skunk-stripe.
Gahlord, I agree with Seth, fenders are paramount. Also, do some pre-planning. Leave a dry pair of shoes & socks at the office. Get rain pants and waterproof jacket. When my commute was longer, I would leave a full change of clothes at the office, but at sub-3 miles, I find the only hard thing to keep dry are my feet.
Gahlord,
Get some fenders for your ride. That's critical.
Hi Vermont bikers... especially those of you in Chittenden County.... anyone up for a moonlight cycle on the bike path sometime? After the rain passes... it could be fun and a great way for us to keep our lead in the national standing...
Hey it's supposed to rain the rest of the week. What advice do you hard core rainy-day riders have to give on clothes etc? I have disc brakes and lights so that part is on track.
I became very hungry on my commute home, stopped and ate a kashi bar and just enjoyed looking around. I guess I was really pushing it.
Biked the trail that leads from the Intervale into the Ethan Allen Homestead and over to the New North End in Burlington... the unpaved parts are really lovely for the wildlife, but a little treacherous and narrow! All in all, though, a gorgeous day for a bit of a meandering ride home..
Just rode over to the awesome Misery Loves Company food truck that opens up in the Burton flagship store parking lot for lunch. Killing two dirty birds with one stone! Fried Chicken banh mi, 5 extra miles that I probably wouldn't have ridden otherwise, and one happy rider. Enjoy the day fellow riders!
This tracking tool is great. Been biking on the Outer Banks, hang gliding and now biking again around Chincoteague, VA. Nice down here. It's great to park the car and bike everywhere.
Several Local Motion folks were out on the GMBC Covered Bridges of Chittenden County ride. It was a lovely day and a lovely ride. Some riders made it up to the bridge on Lewis Creek via a dirt road that was in better shape than we thought.
Nice long ride today, alternately pumped when I passed people on the path, and humbled when people flew past me on hills!
Good Ride Today, i passed everyone!
Just got back from a beautiful ride to Underhill State Park...perfect riding day.
Went for a 2 gap ride yesterday, unfortunately it rained going up App gap, froze going down the other side. Luckily my friend Sue lives on the other side and she hooked us up with hot coffee, snacks and a warming pack for my belly and back! That was soooo nice.
well wheel, i guess. i dont know, im not a bike guy.
A stronger rim to prevent breaking spokes? There's a new one! No engineers on that crew.
got my bike back on the road, but it didn't last long. the folks at paradise sports recommended a stronger rim to prevent breaking spokes, so we ordered it. cost about half as much as what i paid for my bike new though. went for a ride up mt ascutney and got a flat half way up. need a new rear tire apparently. the bad luck keeps coming, but i'm determined.
My bike is on ont the road thanks to my husband. Just rode to the store to pick up a couple of items I forgot. That would usually be a drive.
Gotta love the Saturday commute!
Jessica -- it's 20 points for each day you ride. Thanks for riding.
Bobby -- the flip charts sometimes take a while to update. Try refreshing your browser.
Is it 20 points for each day or each time that you ride? It seems that people are getting the 20 points every time they ride. Just curious as I have ridden everyday and people with less miles are ahead of me.
Anybody know how to get my "This Week" miles and "Today" miles to start showing my rides? I've got points, and I've got rides, but the little flip-charts on http://www.endomondo.com/campaign/national/ are stuck at zero.
I am liking the list of prizes, so motivating.
Let's go State of Vermont Employees! UVM is in our sights. Let's get those bikes out today and this weekend!
I appreciate the sentiment Mr Dewald, but I refuse to be a charity case! Maybe I'll luck out and win one of those bikes at the gold prize level ;)
VT should probably take up a collection to put Kiel on better wheels so he can rep at the top end of the national competition.
OK, made it in. my bike is currently out of service. borrowed my father's "comfort" bike (which I now believe is a misnomer) and made it in this morning. I should really invest in a proper road bike, but im strapped for cash. anyways, hope you all are having better luck than me, and go vermont!
DISASTER! Two broken spokes, ripped sidewall, and two flats. not sure how to get to work today...
only if we go via Florida
Who wants to ride to Wisconsin to give 'em a high five!?
Right on! I can't wait to see the progress.
Go Vermont! I can't believe we're out of the gate in first place! Let's not be complacent though. Wisconsin will be cranking it up. Pedal anywhere, everyday!
Erik - the challenge runs through August, so all those miles will count! Don't forget to log them!
Nice commute this morning, I had a lot of fun.
took a spill coming home last night. not too bad, but my body was sore this morning. still, seeing myself in the top ten on the national leader board makes it worth it. not to mention the gas i'm saving.
Too bad this national challenge isn't in June! I'll be touring to Quebec City from Burlington.
Let's go State of Vermont Employees! Get on that bike after work today!
Excited about my every day rides to work :)..not only em i cheating on my running shoes but i have way better relationship with my bike ha ha ..and seeing 14 miles log ins is pretty darn awesome.
Looking good now. Just took longer than last week....
Seth: I've noticed that it sometimes takes awhile for miles to show up.
I manually logged some miles earlier this morning, but I still don't have any points a few hours later. Any suggestions?
This is an amazing motivation to ride. Working today til the weekend, 12 hour shifts but, the weekend awaits.
I bicyle to work. Only two miles by the end of the day but I ride around the building for more mileage. The night tour and the day tour in Montreal on the weekend of June 3 are fantastic rides esp. if it isn't raining! Bicycling In Vermont is a workout. Lots of up and down and many of the road shoulders are rough but the scenery can't be beat!
Getting ready for the Tour de L'Isle in Montreal on June 3.
Oof, had some trouble coming in this morning, lots of construction vehicles passed me from both directions kicking up dust. might need to invest in some eyewear. not sure what to do about the mouth though. chewing sand isn't all that fun.
I am excited about logging in some miles this summer! Anyone know some good places to ride without tons of traffic?
Today is the start of weekly Wednesday night time trials sponsored by the Stowe Bike Club. All rides start at 6:30, all levels welcome, specific details can be found here: http://www.onionriver.com/stowe-bike-club-time-trials/
Any riders out in Vermont in the St J area? I have a few friends to ride with but there's always room for more!
Thanks Maura.......I guess it was just delayed because I show up now.........had to correct my mileage. A second trip showed up when I was playing with the measure feature.........gotta keep it honest. Definitely want to contact Local Motion to find out about some rides though. Hope some VT riders will show up to support the Long Trail Century Ride to benefit VT Adaptive on June 23 starting at the brewery........ http://www.longtrailcenturyride.com/
I'm doing this on a recumbent...Anyone else willing to do this looking as stupid as me? Didn't think so.
Hello Vt Bikers I just joined and ride to work starting May 7 evey day I hope good luck to all
Mark-it may have to do with your profile or personal settings. Be sure you filled in your zip code, etc. II talked with Jason Van Driesche about someone with a similar problem-He suggested contacting him at: LocoMotion at 802- 861-2700 x109. Good luck with it!
I'm registered and entered my miles but I don't show up as a rider on the local Vermont page, only the National page..........anyone else having this problem?
Great job to everyone who rode this morning. Just wondering on days like this, can we get our time spent on a spin bike or indoor trainer? Didn't see anything specific about it in the rules!
Just joined up, I have been riding to work from Essex to Burlington for a year or so. I can't wait to log some miles and just enjoy the ride.
No rain pants (d'oh!), but stoked!
rain pants ho!
Vermont Vectors? (Vector incorporating speed and direction :-)
Hey Vermont State2 --Welcome! I am so psyched - we need a picture and how about another catchier name? We can do Vermont State2 aka ...
Anythoughts or ideas? Email me at [email protected]
Mary Judy--freezing point seems fair! I FRozen hair is soooo not fun!!
Great to see people stoked to use human power!
Great way to start off, gotta love those rain pants!
I'm wet, but energized!
What a way to start the challenge! Was thoroughly soaked after my morning commute. Hopefully going back home will be a little dryer.
Wish I could have used my 20 mile ride and 16 mile ride that I did this weekend for the challenge. At least now I'll have more of a reason to do it again next weekend!
This will be my 6th year riding to work. Today would have been my first day this year but when I went to get on my bike this morning it was 23 degrees. I am making 32 my cut off point this year. Below that, I don't ride. I know.... what a wimp!
Congratulations, Lisa! That's a big step. Call us at Local Motion if we can help in any way with getting you started. We're at 861-2700 x109.
Getting the bike ready this week, riding to work after that!!!
I just bought a bike and I haven't ridden in about 20 years....I live in a very hilly area so I am going to bring my bike into town to start riding after work...taking it slow so I will not be disouraged.
@ Matt B: you can export a ride from Strava as a .gpx file, then import it into Endomondo. I just tried it; had to retype the name of the ride, and change the workout type from "walking" to "cycling", but it worked. HTH.
You can join whichever team you like -- or start your own!
Got my first bike since 4th grade a month ago. Ready to ride this challenge! Thanks LocoMoto!
I used to bike every where when I was younger. Hoping to combine a running program and a riding challange to get in better shape. My husband has promised to help me get my bike road ready this weekend!
The Shelburne Health & Fitness Cycling Team is excited to join the 2012 Bike Challenge. Many thanks to Local Motion and GMBC for hosting the event.
Very excited that the State of Vermont Employees' Wellness program has created a team "Vermont State". If you are a State of Vermont Employee feel free to join our team!
Anxiously awaiting the arrival of my new Trek 2.1 road bike ... have been riding an ancient Royce Union Delusion 8TD mountain bike on the roads!
Was hoping to start riding to work this week and after hearing the weather forecast...think I will wait until we return from vacation on May 7th!!!
Anybody have a good way to load from Strava onto Endomondo? I'm lazy.
No LM Volunteer Team interest so far. Have joined the "Streakers" but insist on my padded shorts.
Just registered...weather is perfect for a ride, eh?
Commute to volunteer tasks.
Its what I needed to get off the @#$%&* motor scooter!
There's a Budnitz in this silent benefit auction. http://auction.lcwaldorf.org/items/show/2khN5jkACjtGJWi Starting bid is will below retail.