Bruce's Bike Blog

Winter in the Wilds

2012-01-29T10:47:00.000-08:00

The Tall Tree on The Big Farm. Can you see the hawk up in the very top?

I have been living here in Kansas for a year this week, Gentle Readers of This Blog. One year and things have certainly changed for me--I have a job now--at least a ten-month contract, so having income again, and working in my profession/being back in the saddle--is a huge weight off of us. Now have to get the weight off this Clydesdale body of mine!

I'm out riding the Super Grand Prix--my first road ride with my favorite bike.

It is very hard to believe the incredible warm weather we're having mes amis! I went to spin class this morning and when I got home just before noon, it was almost 50 degrees. I hurried to saddle-up the Raleigh Super Grand Prix, which I recently brought back from Tucson. The bike was still ready to ride--just filled up a water bottle, a bit of air in the tires--and I am sailing through Old East Lawrence and into the Wilds...

KU about 10 miles out.

I ride out of the city then back North a few miles--that's where I see Fraser Hall up on top of Mt. Oread. When I left the Little House, the flags on the towers were not even waving--a good sign that the wind will not beat me up on the way out to Lone Star Lake!

The hawk that claims these fields doesn't quite give me time to snap his photo before he takes flight...

I enjoy the trip out to Lone Star with its emerald green fields and fresh rich farm land. Now of course things are put to bed, and the land waits. By bike this is a striking contrast--to feel winter--but its not frigid cold so with only a few layers, I can ride through the quiet air of the day.

I spy another rider and it looks like he sees me too--he slows and I speed up a bit and within a quarter of a mile, we are met up and cheerily greeting each other.

Riding with Chris to Lone Star.

Chris, like me, is out enjoying this warm day. He's riding a 1975 Raleigh Pro, and I'm riding my 1977 Raleigh Super Grand Prix. Although his bike is the Classic British racing machine, mine is made in Japan--still we're riding two very well made steel lugged road bikes--that's pretty cool. So we just set a pace we like and decide we'll ride up to Lone Star Lake--or there abouts--and then hopefully enjoy the tail wind we'll have on the return.

My old friend, The Big Tree on The Big Farm comes into view.

On the way to Lone Star Lake, in the village of Lone Star, we ride past the Lone Church.

Chris riding his Raleigh Pro...

A rare photograph of Bruce! Thanks to Chris for being a good sport and taking the photo!

Chris has a mirror that really works!

I've been riding with my small messenger mirror--which is the size of a button. I can pretty well see behind me but its a bit tricky--lots of vibration and I must hold and position my head so I can get a good look. Chris has a very nice mirror and it came in handy, mes amis. I must tell you that there was a bit of traffic this afternoon and we were able to ride side by side and Chris able to see traffic approaching--and being able to judge speed and distance quite well.

We rode at a good pace and were on our way to Lone Star when Chris said he need to turn around to be back before it got dark. This was a good plan, and although we were just a few miles from the lake, I decided I could probably turn around as well. The sun was heading down quickly and I could feel the air cooling off. Plus good to have someone to ride back with in the tail wind and stay together--much safer.

The hawk keeps his eye on me from way up in The Big Tree's branches.

Cottonwood trees can have very long lives, mes amis--would you be riding along beside us, you would be amazed at the size of this tree and the reach of the branches! Easily this Old Man is 300 feet tall--and could be well over 100 years old.

Long windy curve to Hwy 59.

Chris lives in West Lawrence and I in Old East. We split off and hope that we meet out on the road again one day. I have a ways to go; there is one long curve I have to ride out which will take me Hwy 59. The wind is always brutal here, and cars speed and pass by close and fast. Once I make it up there to 59, it will be a quick ride on the Hwy, then past the wetlands, through Haskell Campus, and home.

The Winter Sun descends it seems, on the Big Farm as I'm about to reach the Hwy.

In the photo above, I've ridden to and then around what I think is known as Shank Hill. The Big Farm is on the other side, and then further West and South is Lone Star Lake.

Almost home.

I can tell that the spin class I've been going to has helped me. I'm riding at high cadence and higher heart-rate. Or, what I'm doing is getting into higher zones and holding for a few minutes then coming down--trying to copy what we do in class. Just trying to keep that steady cadence. On the road and with the wind pushing and pulling you around, its a bit different. I'm just glad I got to get out for a few hours when the temps were just right.

Haskell--only two miles to home.

On the Super Grand Prix, I sail through campus, have a green light at Barker and 23rd St--and fly on my commute route back to The Little House. It makes me realize how much of a tank my Desert San really is to ride mes amis...

A good ride today--thanks for coming along!

Cheers! Bruce

Riding Home In Winter

2012-01-12T18:57:00.001-08:00

Evening on Campus.

Whoa! Winter showed up, Gentle Readers of This Blog! The day before rain and sleet--and sometimes snow fell. The wind was fierce and wicked cold too! After work today I came out, and the Sun was beginning to set and I wanted to get better shots for you, mes amis--because I thought it was kind of pretty. Only a bit of the snow could hang on as the wind was brutal all day!

Remember Your Relatives.

The Arch was built by Indian Veterans who donated money to honor their fellow soldiers--Indian, White, Black--all Americans--who fought in World War I.

Its symbolic of all the men and and women who have served in the military then and now.

Indian people have the Warrior tradition--its more like stepping up in a time of need--to protect and defend those who cannot defend themselves--being selfless--and if need be, fight to keep the people safe. Indian Veterans take this very seriously.

I believe that there's a feeling that the people of the past made sure that the people of the present--you and me--had a chance in this world. They gave up, some of them, everything--so that we could live to work, play, love, create, and be all that we are. Wouldn't you do the same for them?

We should take care of their memory just as we should take care of our vets coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan--no matter what we felt about the war and the mistakes that were made. What we have enjoyed, and what we will enjoy in the future has been solidified by their efforts and their blood.

Oh the times I have wished to trade places with Little Egypt--why her and not me? Why us and why this time?

Okay--well, I need to hit the sack. One week at the new job! That is a good thing!

Cheers! Bruce

New Job At Haskell

2012-01-09T18:21:00.001-08:00

Sunrise and the Victory Arch--built in 1926 (I'll have to check that date for sure)

I started the new job and again, my goal will be to ride into work every day. I can't take the bike path as there's construction--but I can still ride fairly safely on the surface streets. It's pretty much a straight shot, takes about 8 minutes, and is just under 2 miles from the Little House to the Library.

On my way to work! Day One!

Gotta be a bit careful because the street I take to Haskell is what I would call a secondary artery for car drivers--they just have to be patient. I can ride at a pretty good clip and the speed limit is supposedly 30 mph--but people are always in a hurry and they realize that they can't pass me so easily. Still, there might be one or two cars so their wait is only a few seconds to go around a bike commuter.

Here's the Library, Gentle Readers of This Blog.

I'll be able to park my Desert San commuter bike inside the library back in one of the spacious work areas. The Director is quite pleased that I am going to ride my bike--even in this cold weather.

One of the old buildings on Campus--this is Sequoia Hall--Boys Gymnasium.

Hiawatha Hall, built in 1884.

Hiawatha is one of the original buildings on the Haskell Campus. Sadly its in a bit of a sorry state--it was for a very long time the Women's Gymnasium. There's also a swimming pool in the basement--however many years ago a student drowned in there. Indian people are very superstitious so the pool has not been used, and now the building. Some people want to save and revive Hiawatha because they say when a building is not used--it dies.

Riding home after my first day on the job!

Wish me luck as I embark on a year as University Librarian. If you are ever in Lawrence, Kansas--and find yourself at Haskell--please come by the Library and say hello!

Cheers! Bruce

Celebrity Spin

2012-01-08T15:34:00.000-08:00

A quick shot of the bikes in the big equipment garage, Sunday Morning.

I am enjoying Celebrity Spin--as I call it--but really its just a group of local cyclists that have been riding in the garage for many years, and this is actually the 13th year that everyone's gotten together to stay in the loop.

I'm enjoying it because it is a workout, mes amis! I also enjoy it because this is something that The Boss Man and I did back in Tucson a few years ago as well--cadence and heart-rate training.

Boss got me to pull my head out of my ass and stop "mashin" in other words, riding in one big gear all the time--like it was a fixed wheel or something. We started training to get my heart in shape, instead of pounding away in one of two big gears and wearing out my legs.

What ever we did it sure helped me out--and I'm glad I'm coming into the class with some knowledge of what's going on inside this big Clydesdale body of mine. Boss was able to translate the science (physiology--hope I got that right, Boss Man) into a language I could understand.

Cheers! Bruce

Record High Temps in Kansas

2012-01-05T20:23:00.001-08:00

I brought back my 35 year old Raleigh Super Grand Prix from Tucson.

I think the temperature today was like 65 degrees, which is a record for January in Kansas, and probably many other places as well, mes amis. I'm still waiting to start the job--I've done a ton of un-packing from the move. Since its so warm--its time to get out there and enjoy the sunshine for a little while!

Oh yeah, a very slow leak on the Raleigh Super Grand Prix so I had to stop everything and fix it--but hey in shorts and sandals outside in the driveway no less!

You know, I found a tiny head of a thorn in the tube that had worked its way through the tire. I had to dig and then pluck the dagger-like spike out with tweezers--ah the Roads of Tucson!

Old East Lawrence Neighborhoods.

Late in the afternoon, so instead of heading out into The Wilds, I'll just do a little exploring around Lawrence. There are a lot more streets paved with bricks than I though. These actually aren't that bad and are pretty smooth.

This street's bricks are in good shape--for being 80 to 100 years old.

The more traveled streets through Old East Lawrence have been paved with asphalt--but today everybody is out, cause its so warm, and well there's a ton of traffic on those paved arteries. I'm just taking my time and staying out of traffic so I don't mind the bricks.

When a brick-lined street still had its round crown--so the rain drains into the gutters and the street stays dry--the street stays in good shape. When they start to kind of cave in and get all lumpy, and water can stand in puddles--the bricks start to sink or heave up. That can shake your fillings out of your teeth, Gentle Readers of This Blog!

An old part of Lawrence I've never seen--an industrial park with buildings from the 1880s to the early 1900s--when the trains stopped here East of town.

Just as you quickly leave the city and you're in the farmland, I suddenly found myself in what was probably a bustling unloading and shipping area. All the buildings have been deserted but it appears that the area is making a comeback.

This building is huge but there's many more on a smaller scale that are being restored and refurbished. I bet you can buy and old building here for a song. The only thing is that to get here, you have to go through some very old and very run-down neighborhoods. Just not quite accessible yet--but one day.

I stop for a look and a photograph.

This house is not far from The Little House--right off 15th Street. I'm not sure the story on it, but there is a similar one a bit further east called the Miller House. William Quantrill's army of mounted Missouri Bushwackers rode down 15th Street heading West (my route to Mt. Oread and KU) and this house may have been there at that time in 1863. I'm not sure, but I suspect maybe later--I realized that I'm not that far from that old shipping area, and maybe the owner could watch the trains coming in--since there were no steamboats on the Kansas River, probably to watch for trains (or a bloke on bike, eh?) If I recall the train didn't come until after the War.

Mighty Church still stands!

I've never seen this old church before. Mostly I think after the congregation got some money they built more permanent structures. There's still some very old wooden ones that are 100 or more years old and open for business.

William Burrough's house right of 19th Street and Learnard.

Burrough's lived his last days here (about 15 years or so) and had many visitors--Kurt Cobain, Laurie Anderson, Lou Reed, and many others. Not long ago I could ride by and probably he'd be sitting on that porch--I would wave and he would wave back. He had a bizarre life--sex, drugs, and everything else. Rest in Peace, old man...

Local Bike Shop cap given to me by the staff of the Local Bike Shop.

The train tracks are gone and now there lies a walking, running, and biking path.

I can ride my bike the two miles to Haskell where I'll be working. It is plowed when it snows so that will be great. I won't have to try and make my way through the mess of ice and slush, and people trying to make there way to their jobs.

Crap... my way to work by bike is blocked!

Well, just on the other side of that bridge (Hwy 10 and 23rd Street once it gets into the city) is Haskell. This is a bit--no this is a major problem because this is the way to bike, and the street that goes under the bridge and to Haskell (runs parallel to the bike path there) cannot be traveled. If I bike, I have to take busier streets--and I have to cross 23rd Street at rush hour which is very very busy! Maybe they'll get it done before the really bad weather comes. I hope so. I'd rather bike than drive.

Little Egypt on her commute route to work in Kuwait...

Oh well--I'll figure something out--just nice to be outside!

Cheers! Bruce

That's Just How I Roll

2012-01-03T18:23:00.000-08:00

Here I am a few years ago when learned how to ride rollers on Le Tigre's set he loaned me. Notice I'm in a hallway, and also notice the step-stool the get on the bike.

I made it to the first celebrity spin class tonight. I missed the other as I was out of town and actually thought they started a week later--but all that is behind me, Gentle Reader of This Blog--and I got up my nerve, packed up the bike and the rollers--and went to class.

First of all, its in an old building which doubles for a parking garage for the owner who's an excavator. His heavy gear and equipment is in there--which helped me out for I had a place I could extend an arm to if I lost balance on the rollers.

Second--I was the only guy who had rollers--gosh I felt like a dope--and the place was packed. I had to go all the way in back, and as I said, I found a tractor fender where I could catch hold if I needed.

Third--everyone was very friendly and mainly it was people talking to friends and quite a social event. I'm the new guy and well--bringing a set of rollers--and Big Sexy to boot--well I must have seemed very odd. But hey! I made it--and I'm happy to report that I did not crash on the rollers, and stayed up mostly the entire hour.

I did sweat log a freakin' hog, mes amis. And I got awful tired toward the end. I believe I will try to borrow a trainer from one of Ricky's band mates--he has one and well, I might as well be like everyone else. Also John, the captain and leader of the class, got me a spot up closer to the front where I have a place to hold on to while on the rollers. I appreciated that--it also puts me up closer to the group of ladies--the very fit ladies--so I'm not sure I want to look all wobby-lee and about to crash where they can see me.

One thing about Big Sey--it is a big tall bike. Up on rollers, well I feel like I'm a semi-truck barrel-assin' to the tune of some bizarre disco-beat and about to fling apart. Maybe a trainer will be better.

Also Gentle Reader--I am fat: I will not lie to you--I've put on some pounds. And I'm not sure why tonight, but man--did my shoulders really hurt afterward. Maybe I was so tense, and maybe too just the way you have to be constantly adjusting your body for balance made it so hard--and that took it out of me.

I'm soon to be 50 years old. 2012 is an important year for me because I can either be a big fat tub of goo--or I can enjoy a moderate level of fitness. I'm right now the heaviest I ever been--how has the weight creeped up on me?

Well, I've taken the first step. I committed to this spin class. It will certainly take more than the spin class to get the weight off--I'll need to get out on the road and ride the bike--even if its a bit colder than I like--I've got to put in the miles. I also think I might have to try brisk walking to my new job a few days a week.

I hope that if you've taken the time to read all this, that you're well, and that you have high hopes and positive goals this year. I miss my friends in Tucson terribly because besides having a great reason to get out and do something--they were great people. I also hope to meet some other great people here too--maybe this class will be a good start!

Cheers! Bruce

Big Sexy 2012

2012-01-01T19:12:00.000-08:00

Big Sexy on the Rollers. Big Sexy sat un-ridden in LeTigre's garage for almost a year until I fetched 'em and brought back to Interzone. Good to have the bike back with me again!

I don't know why, but of all my bikes, Big Sexy seems best suited for the rollers. The last few days I've tried all the bikes but for some reason Big Sexy works.

New Years Day and I was able to ride solid for about two minutes before falling off. I'm just going to have to show up and give it my best at the celebrity spin class.

2011 was a tough year. 2012 is looking up and I should hear any day now about coming in and starting my new appointment!

Allure Libre!

Bruce

Last Commute Up Mt. Oread

2011-12-30T14:43:00.001-08:00

Fraser Hall atop Mt. Oread at the University of Kansas.

After I returned from my Tucson trip, I was able to work one more day at my part-time, temporary job up at KU. All the guys I worked with knew that I was working hard to get a full-time professional position--so when my ship came in they were happy for me.

Since The Little House is just over a mile away, it only makes sense to go by bike to work. In the photo above, I'm about half a mile away from the office. I get to work in about eight minutes--I have to climb up very steep 14th Street, which reminds me of going up the back side of Gates Pass in Tucson!

I rode to work every day by bike for eight months! I never once drove to work by car!

When I got to the office, I used the men's room to quick change into my work clothes. Even on the coldest days, I had to wipe off and dry up because I always broke a sweat riding up the hill.

Starting the climb up Mt. Oread on 14th Street.

Sun coming up on The Hill (Mt. Oread) and I'm not quite at the top.

The Natural History Building and Museum inside the Hall here is 112 years old--quite stately in the morning sunshine.

Fraser Hall, build in the late 1950's can be seen from many miles away as you drive towards Lawrence--or in my case, out in the Wilds on the Bike.

Lippencott Hall, another 100 year old building on the KU Campus. There's a light dusting of the first snow on the ground, mes amis.

Looking East down 14th Street from atop Mt. Oread, KU Campus.

14th Street was in dismal shape most of 2011, Gentle Readers of This Blog, and going down you had to be very careful as the all brick-paved streets seemed to surge up through the layers of asphalt over the years. Well they paved over with yet a new layer--and it was quite nice to ride on--no pot holes or old bricks to surprise you with a thud.

You can see how steep the ride was up 14th in the morning--most students walk up--or take the bus. I got home very fast of course--but I had to be very careful because there were always students searching (often hopelessly) for a place to park up here. Often they were in a hurry and not paying attention. Now I'll have a longer commute to the new job--about two miles--but its all gonna be flat.

Wish me Luck with the new job and the new commute in 2012! Still I think its quite an accomplishment to have ridden my bike to work every day in 2011.

Cheers! Bruce

Calle de los Higos

2011-12-21T19:30:00.000-08:00

The neighborhood Kestrel watches me as I embark on my last ride. I think its a good sign--he'll carry my prayers for safe journey as I embark on a cross-country trek back to Kansas--the first leg by bike.

Much has changed and I've been busy, Gentler Readers of This Blog--the changes are good, but they have been a long-time coming.

Our house in Dog Mtn we rented for two years--this came just as Little Egypt deployed for Kuwait in early October. Also, my part-time job at KU ended as I have a new appointment at Haskell.

So we have good renters again (hooray!) and I will be back in my profession--and making money again--the down-side is that my appointment is only for 11 months while I fill in for faculty on leave-of-absence. But the appointment will help me secure another position in the future.

My new job took me about two months to complete all the federal forms--now I'm just waiting for the FBI-Background Check, and then I should be starting in early 2012.

Old Pecan Grove on the Santa Cruz. You'd get a quick glance of them as you drove past on the Interstate 10 at 75 mph.

So what I had to do, mes amis, is fly to Tucson, pack up our house and the things in storage, and then drive it back to Lawrence, Kansas. As I was about to print off my boarding pass the afternoon of December 6th, I received an email that I had the job at Haskell. Things then moved quickly as I had to pack, fly to Arizona, and at the same time finish up a bunch more paper work at Haskell the next morning--then catch a shuttle to Kansas City and fly to Tucson that afternoon--I just made it!

I had the good fortune to borrow a car from my friend Stef. I used his car to run a ton of errands to get my house ready to rent--thanks Stef! Then I would return the car to Stef's house in down town Tucson and ride the brand new Santa Cruz Bike Path back up to Dog Mtn.

Rain was in the forecast, Gentle Reader, so I had to quick get Stef's car back, ride home to beat the rain, and then get my rental truck.

I packed my Raleigh Super Grand Prix in the car, drove down town, hung out with Stef and Angela--a bit too long--then started up to Dog Mtn as clouds loomed.

As I left, I surprised a little falcon--maybe I was too close to him and his mate's nest or territory--and he followed and eyed me and landed here and there to make sure I posed no threat. But as I said, I took it as a good sign as he began to lightly and gently glide just above me, looking at me with interest. He was so close--his grey head and the bold black lines over his eyes and down his head--I felt him understanding my heart and the worries built up inside. Not to worry! Now a chance to ride my bike!

The new Santa Cruz Bike Path is so new that I don't think they've actually completed all the signs for which way the path actually goes. I mean it looks simple on the map, but it was hard to follow and confusing. Most people I stopped to talk to on the path had only ridden sections, like me with Le Tigre--but no one as far up as Dog Mtn. The only person I know who's done it is Dan--and he's ridden beyond.

After a few wrong turns, and a few frantic calls to Stef and Le Tigre--I got going the right direction and pushed steadily against a head wind. A storm was coming and the air was getting cold and rough, and I had to go slightly up-hill to get back.

I stuffed my jersey full of pecans from the Old Grove. I don't know if the trees are even harvested anymore. They look neglected--but still I found fat tasty pecans!

I'm glad there's a Santa Cruz Bike Path but I must admit it seems a bit barren. Its like the wasteland between the Interstate, the river, and then the urban sprawl. But, as my friend Phil said, this is where the Indians lived and thrived before White People. Around here are a few dig sites but they are kept low-key so they won't be disturbed. I asked Phil what those people would have thought about how this land got thrown away--and he said they're probably laughing at us and how we live now.

I have a 25 mile ride home. But its good to be on the bike, mes amis!

The Santa Cruz has some water in it, but mostly its dry, and it seems forgotten and barren as I said--but I think it will come back as the bike path has given me some new insight into what this area is about. Along the path where the Old Pecan Grove is, there an open pit mine. Phil told me that there used to be many more pecan trees before the pits came along. They seem abandoned just like the trees now. Should you be on the bike path be sure and get some of those pecans because they tasted fantastic!

Old pit mine along the bike path.

I get mixed up a few times as the bike path suddenly stops--I discover that I missed the entrance to the path that takes me up over the river.

I stopped and asked three different cyclist which way to go, and all three gave me three different confusing directions--until the last guy took me over and showed me the way to get over the bridge to keep going North. I would have never have figured it out, mes amis--and each of the riders told me that they had never ridden up to Dog Mtn and did not know exactly if it went through. I wish I had had Dan's phone number because I was running out of sunlight, Gentle Readers of This Blog!

Here I am almost to Twin Peaks Rd. then I ride up Twin Peaks to my house in Dog Mtn.

At Twin Peaks Road I had about 20 minutes of evening sunlight left. The last leg would be a bit tough as I had a steady head wind--and no lights. I'd just have to push it up the mountain. The evening saw no car traffic and it was just me and my bike, the road, and the silent desert.

I got home before the real dark darkness rolled in, and I left messages with Stef and Le Tigre that I made it back and not to worry. By the evening, rain poured down and it got very cold. It rained for three days straight as I packed and loaded the moving truck--it just made everything the more difficult. I worked non-stop and had little time to call my friends to meet them from dinner or a few beers.

Eventually, by the 13th of December I had everything loaded in the rental truck. I pulled out of town the morning of the 14th and then took three days driving across Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, and then Kansas.

Then it took me two days to unpack the truck and move the Tucson House into the Little Kansas House. And that's what I've been doing all this time, Gentle Reader of This Blog--that is where I have been.

Soon, you'll see me on the road again here in KS--I still plan to return to Tucson one day--with all the bikes, my wife--and live and prosper. Let's just see how 2012 turns out, shall we?

Allure Libre! Cheers! Bruce

Historic Lecompton and a Cheeseburger

2011-11-19T14:33:00.000-08:00

Constitution Hall, built 1855, Lecompton, Kansas.

Riding through these parts of old historic Kansas Territory, what strikes me is how unassuming this quiet village seems--150 years ago things would have been very different mes amis. What the people did here sowed the seeds of the Civil War.

Like now, many of the issues stemmed from over-zealous politicians--on both sides--trying to make a name for themselves. Sounds all too familiar doesn't it, Gentle Readers of This Blog?

Blokes in Congress grab-assin' for power, and others using the cloak of morality to justify murder--while for the most part, Kansas People wanted to farm and make a living. Still others on both sides, the Jayhawkers and the Bushwackers, used the issue of Slavery to steal and kill each other for personal gain.

Crossing the Kansas River as I leave Lawrence.

The last few weeks have kept us all pretty busy. Little Egypt deployed to Ft. Hood with the Kansas Nat'l Guard, and as I write she's on her way to Kuwait. Work, school, planing, and getting set for a year without her has been work. Rico is prepping for the end of the semester with papers and exams. Also, the weather here has been bleak--but this Saturday promises to be warm--almost 70 degrees! Its going to be windy, as a storm with rain and snow are on the way--I will get in a ride, mes amis!

Sun Kissed.

You can see that little reflection from my messenger mirror--I'm riding due West and the Sun is quickly rising up over my shoulder. With the wind dashing and gusting in every direction--sometimes I get a tailwind, then a sudden violent crosswind! The clouds are riding this wind as well and they race over head.

Stamped of clouds roaring onto the Wilds!

Farmers that have prospered and continue to do so.

Fields put down for Winter Time.

Now to get off this road with the headwinds and ride to Lecompton.

I rode like a bullet out of Lawrence as I had a bit of tailwind. Riding West on Hwy 24 was tough as I had headwinds and cross winds--and some traffic too. Riding on Hwy 24 West reminds me of Hwy 79, the Pinal Parkway, between the Tom Mix Memorial and the Junction at Hwy 79 and Hwy 77, which takes you down to Saddlebrook and Oro Valley. The traffic is fast and the shoulder narrow. I had to really work to make 15 to 16 mph in that wind.

Before I ride into Lecompton I ride over the Kansas River again.

The Kansas River here about 18 miles West of Lawrence probably looks like when it did 150 years ago. The bridge I'm on is modern and smooth, and I'm glad there was no traffic so I could snap a few pictures and try to get one for you, Gentle Reader.

Territorial Capital of Kansas. Look at those flags! The wind has switched directions and now howling straight out of the South!

I almost missed this old building as come to find out, the old Lecompton High School was built in front of it in the 1930s--that was weird I thought at first. This was to be the State Capital of Kansas--the State Capital of Slave Kansas that is! The building was started up in 1855 but when things didn't go in favor of Pro Slavery backers, the construction was stopped and the site abandoned about 1857.

With the building about a third completed, and all the cut stones and material lying around, a few years later it was bought by a church which in turn built it as Lane University. Lane wasn't actually finished until 1882--the old building sat unfinished for a long time...

The claim to fame here is that at Lane, which at the time was progressive co-ed liberal arts university, is where President Dwight Eisenhower's parents met and go married in 1885. Lane University closed in 1902 and the old building remained unused for another 70 years. It was only recently restored in the early 1980s. Amazing that it survived at all.

The Mighty Trek hid behind the big juniper bushes at the entrance.

Territorial Capital Museum.

Christmas Time!

The upstairs chapel was pretty awesome--and the volunteers had just finished putting up a large live Christmas Tree--it was very beautiful. Big Christmas trees like that don't last long in Tucson because its so dry--but this one was well worth the trip riding out here from Lawrence.

Did not seal the deal.

First try up there for the Pro-Slavery backers--who in reality were Southern Senators and Congressmen trying to gain power in Washington D.C. by admitting Kansas as a Slave State. The citizens of Kansas Territory opposed slavery and felt that they had the right to vote on what kind of government they wanted--the idea of "Popular Sovereignty" instead of what Congress interests were in Washington.

The Mighty Trek is still there, thank goodness!

Then...

And now... Constitutional Hall built in 1855.

It is amazing that this old wood building is still standing, mes amis. It was built to accommodate the Territorial Legislature and it was here that Pro-Slavery and Free State interests debated and argued over the fate of Kansas.

You can see some of the original frescoes and see three chairs that were here when the Territorial Legislators hashed out the State Constitution.

So in 1857 the guys got together here and drafted the famous/infamous Lecompton Constitution--which would have admitted Kansas as a Pro-Slavery State. It was rejected after fierce debate in Congress, mainly by Lincoln and Douglas, and many historians feel its where Southern and Northern States drew up sides which tipped the US into civil war.

Window to let in sunlight in the stairwell going up and down from first to second floor.

Eight drafts of the Lecompton Constitution were hammered out in this large room before the one sent to Washington D.C. for President Buchanan to sign in 1857--which he didn't sign into law.

For many years later Constitution Hall was used as the Government Land Office.

Once the writing was on the wall that Kansas would be a Free State, people moved on to Topeka where the State Capital would be built. Lecompton faded quickly--while Lawrence prospered--but that is another story Gentle Readers of This Blog.

Again I believe its a miracle that Constitutional Hall was not burned down or dismantled by Free Staters. Probably people moved on to their business pretty quickly once Statehood happened in 1861.

The very fine museum staff and volunteers told me where I could get a quick bit to eat as it was now about lunch time--I was starved. All I had to do was go down the road just a few miles and pull off to the right at Kroger's Meat Market.

Staff making my cheeseburger in Kroger's family meat market.

The Kroger family have been farmers and cattlemen for many generations. At the store besides selling meat from the cows they raise on the farm right there, they sell gas, beer, candy, and stuff like that. I'm glad I know where it is now because its good stop to make before the trip home back to Lawrence.

Eisenhower Rd. a.k.a. Rural Kansas Hwy 1029.

I'll take 1029 South to the Old Farmers Turnpike that runs East and West (438 Rd.) and head on into Lawrence. Here I'm fighting a pretty strong crosswind from the West--the cold front is on the way, mes amis!

Hay cut and stored to feed cattle this Winter.

Old Barn Landmark right before Farmers Turnpike.

Lecompton Interchange at Interstate 70 and Kansas 10.

I decided that I'd go the fast way back, as least that's what the bike shop lads have told me, and take K 10 to Hwy 40 (6th Street in Lawrence City Limits) instead of scenic Farmers Turnpike all the way.

I cross over I 70 which is a wide concrete river packed with fast car traffic--to K-10 which I know has a wide shoulder. I've been told that riding on Hwy 40, which is the old highway from Lawrence to Topeka, is dangerous for bikes, but I'll give it a go.

Actually with the wind now shifted and coming right from the West, I am riding with the wind, mes amis! I make some very good time on K-10. When I get to Hwy 40, it has a wide shoulder for me to ride on just into the city.

With a tailwind on Hwy 40 and then on newly re-paved 6th Street--I fly into town!

Yeah I rode fast, and when I ran out of shoulder on 6th Street, I was able to ride the wide sidewalk next to 6th. Instead of having a bike lane, what the Lawrence people did was build a wide sidewalk--unlike Tucson and most cities where riding a bike on the side walk is illegal, riding on the side walk is legal except for Massacusetts Ave in Old Downtown Lawrence.

When the side walk ran out, I just hopped back onto 6th Street and rode in traffic. The street has been newly repaved, and with the tail wind I had, I was riding 28 mph in a 35 mph zone. I got a few looks from people passing me like, "Dang that Cat is fast!" I popped right onto Mass Ave, Downtown Lawrence and it was cool to see everyone out and enjoying the afternoon. Lots of car traffic so I had to be careful.

A quick stop by the local bike shop.

Bone Shakin' Short Cut back to the Little House!

Back at the Little House before the cold and rain and maybe snow arrives Sunday!

Thanks for stopping by and continuing to read the Blog mes amis. Take care!

Cheers! Bruce

We'd All Be Happier If We Rode Bikes

2011-11-17T17:03:00.000-08:00

Sunny but cold morning for the commute to the office.

October and November have been busy for us here up in Interzone, Gentle Readers of This Blog--but I am still on the bike! I've been mostly car free since the move, and I'm happy to report that I have never driven a car to work since I began working at KU back in late March. I've had a few rides with Little Egypt and Son Rico giving me a lift--or picking me up--but that has been rarely. If need be I walk home.

It has been one-point-two miles to work and back home by bike every day! The secret? Packing the night before, and then giving yourself enough time in the morning so you don't have to rush. Even though its just over a mile, I have a huge hill to climb--and even with the cool weather now, I still have to change clothes and clean up a little in the men's room up top at my office.

It has also helped that all the streets going up to the top of campus on Mt. Oread have been repaved over that last few months with new black cake-icing-like asphalt. The streets are narrow, steep, and 100 years old. The original bricks were heaving through on many of the roads--which made going down-hill pretty dangerous. You could hit a spot and get flung over the handle bars real quick mes amis.

Still every morning I see the students who are running late, speeding up and down Mt. Oread--always in vain--for parking spots that do not exist. In a panic and on a cell phone, they're not paying attention and if you're a cyclist you have to be real careful not to get run over. Most kids simply take the bus--which is free for them--or they walk up the hill. If the buses did not run I think more people would have to ride bikes.

I did have to run errands today and I had to drive. I had to be on one of those streets where there's a lot of traffic because its a main artery, and things like grocery stores and stuff are there. Lots of lights and lots of speeders and rude cutting people off and shit. Every asshole on a fucking cell phone too. Even in the grocery store parking lot people on cell phones speeding though there not giving a fuck about almost running some old farmer and his wife over.

This store is about 3 miles away and probably the same for most people over where I live. What if we were all on bikes? Wow what a sight! It would be a happy time--and then those people that are too old to bike, well they could drive because they had too--and they might even feel safe.

Well come Spring I plan to make more of a leap with biking to the grocery store. They tore down our local grocery around the corner so they could re-model it--it was old and falling apart. Now people like me who used to live nearby have to drive so there's a bit more congestion. The store we have to go to now (same chain) is not safe for bikes--I still see a lot of the workers from the old store working at this other location--they still have to ride to work many of them and its not easy I know...

Rock and Roll mes amis!

Lastly, I got a set of rollers--used--and so there they are! On warm days I'll test out the new winter clothing I'm starting to collect!

Allure Libre! Bruce

The Purple Stain

2011-10-28T21:12:00.001-07:00

The Purple Stain is a Time Traveler.

My apologies to you Gentler Reader of This Blog--busy days have kept me away from the bike and away from the Triple B Ranch--the original name of the blog when I set it up back in 2005. Things are changing and in the changes it strikes me that here in Interzone, the Seen and the Unseen can be passed through ever so lightly--as they exist together--right on the border where one memory--one collective memory of a place--fades and then rises into the next.

Here too, some of my memories appeared like a reminder, or a signal or sign--that I am traveling and will continue to travel--forever. Riding a bike instead of walking or even driving--the flow of the world changes. You are quite aware of the Seen and Unseen at the same time.

100 year old Trees.

The trees here are very much alive, and I've noticed them changing as Winter approaches. Leaves fall off like our work clothes slip off each night before we go to bed.

100 year old streets.

Maybe not people riding horseback, but probably automobiles as early as the teens on these streets. I am probably not the only bloke to ride his bike into downtown in this manner.

Neighborhood of Old East Lawrence.

Might the street and the trees have such a memory of a bone-shaken rider on a cool mid-day Autumn afternoon? It feels like I'm flowing through a dream, mes amis--am I slipping through thoughts of the trees?

The Pig--one of many cafes in Interzone.

Liberty Hall's southeast corner--built in 1877.

The Ethridge Hotel on that corner--first built in 1858 and then burned by Quantrail's Raiders in 1861.

I'm going with Rico as he gets a haircut in the building here to the left. I have to tell you that the light for photographs was the best--I wish I had a better camera for you mes amis.

Elevator in the old building--which dimension shall we enter? Push a button and find out, Gentle Reader of This Blog...

Third Floor. Rico waits for his appointment in the Salon.

When we ride up the elevator to the third floor, mes amis, I am amazed--I see an old building but I sense many things. Inside the Salon, I can't sit still--its like I hear and see everything, but at the same time there's nothing there! I am right at the line of Now and Then--it is very fluid--things are moving, Time is moving and swirling--here is like a rock in a stream. As time rolls and sweeps over this spot, there's a ripple and swirl of the energy.

The room has a memory.

I feel and and see--but not with eyes--but in my mind the people and the place--but they are fleeting images. Paint and objects are a thin vail to the past. Did Those of the Past have a sense of Those of the Future? What would be here? Who would be here? We never think about that and it does not really occupy my thoughts--but sometimes, if you are fortunate and in the right place at the right time--that thought and that memory can be walked right into.

The Irony.

I know that I was in, or very near, a place where Time and Being ripple and somehow flow together and mix--what ever it is or whom ever it is left me this clue or message. The Kitchen Clock. The Kitchen Clock--we had this exact same plastic clock in our kitchen back in Tulsa where I grew up--in our little house. It was next to our kitchen sink and the window. It was there for almost 50 years--It was the clock that read the time and told me when and where--everything we did and that I did, I did around what the time was on this clock for all of my life in that house. My God what if it was the same clock? Not one just like it--but the very one? From our house and our kitchen? I don't know why and I don't understand this message, but the fact that it a time machine of sorts--well, I have to appreciate the intention. The message and the meaning are for me I know--but what is it? If there is something for me to find--where is it?

The Salon.

Well, when you find yourself in these situations like I did--it's not really scary. It is mysterious and fascinating. I though for a moment that someone was having a pretty good laugh at me stumbling around what could be to them the obvious.

I look for the way to the meaning.

While Rico gets his hair cut, I look around the place, and tread lightly--for who would appear or what would change made me a bit wary. If there are those that travel through time and memory--for why they would want or need to is a mystery to me--how do they do it? Is it a door? A few steps up and then a left and you're in? Who watches and who takes care of the places like these? To make sure someone like me doesn't go where they are not supposed to go? If it is not who--that what?

Our bikes parked outside.

Outside in the sunshine of the afternoon, I see my Campus Bike. I'll take it and go down to the LBS. That is what I'm to do I feel--leave the flow, stand on the bank and let the droplets of my short swim in Time's cool waters evaporate from my mind.

Hotel for Time Travelers.

My gut feeling is that travelers might stay here a night or two--have a breakfast or dinner--before they embark. The Ethridge was built in 1858. Legend is that William Quantril had breakfast here while his Bushwackers sacked and burned Lawrence, back in August of 1861. I read that Quantail's men rode to Lawrence by way of Eudora, and the route, which I know well from my commutes to work and from my rides back into town from the Wilds, took them riding past The Little House. It wasn't here then of course, but there are a few houses still standing where Quantril's Army rode past. I ride past them too. Quantril burned down the Ethridge--it was rebuilt shortly after. Just about all of Lawrence was burned. I wonder what building or what was on the site of the Salon?

Lawrence has always been a bike town.

The Local Bike Shop.

The LBS was a factory or some sort of machine shop for many many years--100 years ago. Then it was an Army Navy Surplus Store--now a bike shop for about 25 or 30 years.

The Tavern.

Rico and I meet up after his hair cut as I'm walking down the street and looking for photographs to take. We decide we'll head home--but first I suggest we slip into our favorite pub and have a pint. I wonder if I'll meet a Time Traveler one day? I know its not too flattering to name him or her so--but for now I'll call 'em The Purple Stain. Until that Time, my Dear Fellow,

Cheers!

Last Ride of Beer and Bikes

2011-10-14T12:10:00.001-07:00

After a 30 mile ride from Dog Mtn to Downtown Tucson.

I had one more long ride Friday Night--Saturday morning I'd be catching a shuttle to Phoenix and then flying into Kansas City. I thought for sure after the recon ride I did with Le Tigre covering the Rillito River bike trail joining up with the Santa Cruz bike trail, I'd be at Stef's place in no time. Unfortunately I couldn't find and missed the ways to catch on to the trail--which I could sometimes see from where I was--So Gentle Readers of This Blog I rode mostly South to Downtown via the old El Tour Tucson Death Route--on Silverbell Rd.

Down from Dog Mtn via Twin Peaks Rd. on my way to Silverbell to catch the Santa Cruz River Bike Path.

I had a pretty good hunch that I could save a lot of time by going West on the new Twin Peaks Interchange. Its all new pavement and I ride very fast, mes amis. I knew I'd be able to quickly catch the Santa Cruz--it was early evening and I had to be down town by 6pm. I gave my self just over an hour and a half to make the Mercado by 6pm and Stef's party.

I'm in familiar territory of Continental Ranch.

Silverbell Rd is fast and I know it from my rides with John and Kathy. Its also re-paved and I know I can use it to quickly get onto the Santa Cruz to ride to downtown before heavy traffic sets in. I certainly don't want to be on Silverbell during Friday-Night rush hour traffic.

Newly paved Silverbell Rd heading South. That's Pusch Ridge and with Mt. Lemmon behind--looking East.

I have to tell you that I did not see or could not see where to get onto the Santa Cruz--maybe some of you will be reading this and say to your selves, "Oh man, you were so close!" but after some frustrating dead-ends, the only choice I had was to ride Silverbell into downtown--that leg of El Tour that everyone dreaded back in the old days.

The road is beat up and narrow. Sand and mud wash out over the bike lane, and the locals are not friendly and they drive fast. There's also a grueling headwind to boot. To make a very long 30 mile story short, Gentle Reader of This Blog, I got the Hell beat out of me riding with a fury to get this Beer Party before sundown and/or getting run over.

I'm happy to report that I made it--and all that was on my mind was a cold beer that Stef would have waiting for me--and FOOD. I was starving mes amis! Anyway, Silverbell is a shit road and I'm glad I had the Old Raleigh with the big tires to help me get to Downtown Tucson without a flat or a crash.

Its a tough road and I had a tough bike. Also I begged my next door neighbor Brucie to come pick me up after the party. I had ridden 200 miles for the week and 30 more home in the dark is something that I couldn't do--especially after 30 miles of rugged Silverbell. Thank God Brucie agreed to come fetch me--I was able to enjoy a few more beers and relax.

I am just going to make it!

I am at the Mercado!

Yes! Where is the food?!! Where is the Beer?!!

I have to tell you all that while I rode the last few miles into the Barrio Del Tucson--and the rough pavement gave way to the old neighborhoods of the city--the sights and sounds of the Old Pueblo--and the aroma of burritos and tacos and frejoles cooking filled the evening air--oh how did wish I still lived here.

The food! The cool night creeping in like a fat grey cat to replace the relentless all-day glare of the Sun. For those few miles everyone was home, with the family, and setting in for the evening meal--which I could smell cooking from every kitchen on every block it seemed!

I was so busy busting my ass to get the Party--I forgot to find out where the Party actually was located... This is Stef and Angela's place, but the door is locked and no one's home. Lucky for me, Foxx, Stef's young son saw me and told me where to ride to--down the street!

Me and Stef.

I got to see and talk to many old friends. Stef's book will come out this November sometime--here is the link to a preview of Tucson Spokes mes amis. I hope you enjoy!

1977 Raleigh Super Grand Prix. What a bike, mes amis!

Just one flat the week I was in Tucson. Just over 200 miles for the week as well--that's the most for me in a long time. I have to say I was a bit sunburned and my legs were stiff and sore on the flight home. Needless to say I slept on the plane like a log.

Thanks for coming along on this trip back to Tucson. Thanks for reading my blog. I just get busy and can't always post in timely manner but I will try!

Cheers! Bruce

Foothills of Tucson

2011-10-14T12:09:00.001-07:00

Tulsa Boy and Kid from Brooklyn.

You all probably recognize Boss Man. We met up and put in a few miles. Boss took the morning off to meet me--I rode down into town on my old commute route I'd take to the Desert San.

Luckily the day before I took a day off from riding, and my buddy Phil picked me up and we out and had a steak dinner--he also took me by the Hardware Store so I could get some things to fix my irrigation system--Thanks Phil!

Sunrise up over Mt. Lemmon, mes amis!

I've put in some miles--just about every morning riding at sun-up to meet the lads!

This is the best time of the morning--a bit cool, but the sun warms you quickly.

I'm motivated by Boss promising to buy me a cup of coffee at the cafe we're meeting at today. Because I didn't rent a car, I'm having to ride, Gentle Readers of This Blog, 15 miles just to get into town. Going out and riding with the guys is one thing, but when you have to run errands and get food and stuff--well quickly you realize how many miles you gotta go. Tucson is a bike friendly city but out where I live things are far away. Short bike trips don't exist--oh yeah and the climbing. I have a new found understanding and respect for those that can go car free--it takes grit! Having to ride over 15 miles home back up into the foothills of Dog Mtn is work.

Southern foothills of Pusch Ridge.

I'll have to ride down and around the tip of the Ridge that you see there, ride on the other side to meet Boss Man at Ina and Oracle Rds right there at the Starbucks--as you can see, I have a few miles to go.

Oro Valley on La Canada riding South.

I'll make up some time by flying through Oro Valley. That up there is La Canada which is newly paved and will take me, with pristine bike lane, to Ina Rd. I'll turn East and then be a few miles from Ina and Oracle. In the picture above, you can see downtown Tucson to the far left hidden the the smog and dust.

That light up there is Ina and Oracle--one the busiest intersections in Tucson.

I meet up with Boss and the Starbucks is hoppin' with everyone getting coffee to go and sitting outside to take cell phone calls or check email in the sunshine of the patio before heading into the office.

The Boss can see that I'm pretty wiped-out, so we sit and relax awhile while I inhale three bagels and gulp down two tall Americanos. We have a few laughs and get caught up on things--what we're doing, plans for Christmas (I plan to be back to escape the snow) and mostly I get a chance to wake up.

Things are intense at this Starbucks because its busy and crowded. Boss, accustom to living in NYC is right at home. Since I've been living in KS, I'm used to hopping on the bike and being in Corn Flake Country within a few blocks!

Boss Man on the bike.

The Boss is a fearless, strong, and tough rider. Hot or cold does not phase him--traffic never bothers him. I just noticed how busy and fast everything was around me--after being on country roads where you see more deer and antelope and chickens on Old McDonald's farm than people. Here it seems you got to watch that some bimbo doesn't run you down pulling out of a McDonalds whilst stuffing Egg McFatGrease in their face.

Riding up Ina Rd at a good clip--here are the Catalina Foothills, mes amis.

Boss and I had our laughs and jokes--always the best riding with him. The coffee was just what I needed. The air was warming up and the morning beautiful. Boss and I put in some quick miles and then, alas, he had to run, and then get ready to head into his office at the U of A.

At the Starbucks, we talked a little bit about what happened early January last year--the shooting that took place at the Safeway there at Ina and Oracle. That's where Boss and his family shop. We rode past that location on all our training rides on the weekends, and I every day for years on my commute. I can't believe a year has almost gone by.

I could see the make-shift shrine from across the street while we had coffee--so on the way back to Dog Mtn, riding West on Ina at almost Oracle, I pulled over in the bike lane and took this quick photo. Its right off the road on the NE corner. This is a very busy intersection so I would not advise stopping too long.

Ina and Oracle.

These are the six who where killed that Saturday morning back in January. Click on the photo if you want to be able to read the names. Anyhow, Congresswoman Giffords had the same set up at the Safeway up in Rancho Vistoso where I shopped, and I met her in much the same way--on a weekend out riding my bike. I stopped to get water and she was buying a bag of ice. It was very common to see her staff setting up her greeting booths at the local Safeway stores in her district on the weekends.

Climbing back up to Dog Mtn!

Climbing--and its hot--and I gotta pee. Ten miles and two tall espresso drinks later--I have to see a man about a horse--

Jack Pot! I'm very glad this old guy was still here--one of the last things to get picked up from the road construction crews!

The Tortolita Range, the last leg on my ride back up to Dog Mtn.

I was lucky to have a tailwind on Moore road, mes amis! Now I'm making some time!

Mt. Lemmon behind me--I stop to take a parting look and photo for you. My hope is that I'm back here soon, and then one day climbing Mt. Lemmon with my friends.

I'll stop in for a quick lunch--I'm starved, plus when I get home there's more work to do around the house before I leave.

Such a big macho truck to haul around a Gringo with a small penis!

Big trucks like this, like in Kansas, are used for work on the farm--or by the Mexicans here, like in Kansas, used for work to earn a living. These kinds of trucks you see are not work trucks--they're driven by white guys that want the world to know how manly they are. These babies are expensive to drive around, and you need a disposable income to have one--like this guy who really didn't look like he did.

Almost home.

I have ridden almost 200 miles for the week. The weather has been perfect! Thanks for stopping by the blog!

Cheers! Bruce

Le Tigre de Tucson

2011-10-13T10:58:00.001-07:00

Le Tigre and I meet on the Rillito River Bike Path for some serious riding!

Old School Chum and Independently Wealthy local Tucson Boy and I arrange an early morning ride, Gentler Readers of This Blog. We will ride on the Rillito River Bike Path, and Le Tigre will guide me on the new connection where it meets the Santa Cruz Bike Path. I don't think its officially open yet but many of the Tucson Cyclist have been taking it for a weeks now. I'll use this trip to recon for Friday Night's Beer and Bikes event at Stef's house in the Mercado near Down Town.

Only just opened, I'm on Twin Peaks Rd--that's Panther Peak in the background in Continental Ranch--which is on the West side of Interstate 10.

I thought I'd ride down to a cafe where I could have a quick breakfast, then meet up with Le Tigre for our ride to Down Town via the Santa Cruz.

A bit of a chill this morning.

Twin Peaks take me pretty far pretty fast--but then I have to back-track a little to the cafe. From there, I can shoot down Thornydale, onto River Rd to La Cholla, where I'll see Le Tigre.

At the Cafe--had to fix a flat.

When I pulled into the Cafe, I discovered that I had a puncture, and the piece of wire was still stuck in the tire. I got my coffee and breakfast, and then warmed by the coffee I got the tube patched up. I gave myself plenty of time to head out this morning, so a flat--my first in a long time--was not a big deal. It just takes some time to get the tire up to 100 psi with my hand-pump. But I was good to go and now the Sun was warming me up and I felt strong. Back on familiar roads--River Rd, mes amis, a commute route of mine for years--I made good time to the bike path.

About River Rd and La Cholla, just on the bike path.

Construction is finally complete--this was being worked on for years--When Le Tigre and I head this way, it will be the first time for me--I'm pretty excited. Soon there will be a bike path all around the City of Tucson--awesome.

Le Tigre--

On our way on the new bike path!

Riding under Interstate 10.

You know I've read a lot about the Santa Cruz and Rillito Bike Paths connecting, but what most of the writers fail to do is actually tell you anything remotely relevant. Its just like they're re-hashing a poorly written press release. Years ago I called Matt Zoll, and some others at the River Parks/Bike Committee--asking about how far East I could ride on the bike path--if I could ride from say, Sabino Canyon area on dirt until I reached the paved part--Mr. Zoll and many of the other staff admitted that they actually didn't know.

So I needed Le Tigre to guide me. There were a few times the bike path branched off in different directions--Le Tigre told me not to got that way because it dead-ends. There needs to be a few signs to help people out for awhile--or even every few miles a sign with a map--not just of the bike trail but the streets that connect to it--just saying.

All new bike trail--heading South on the Santa Cruz.

Riding past the old Pecan Grove near the open pit mine.

I know where we are, but I'm not really sure where we are some of the time. That is the case on the Santa Cruz. Like the Pecan Grove and the Pit--you would drive past them every day on I-10 but really there seems to be a lot space between the Interstate and the Santa Cruz--and what I thought looked like Silverbell Rd just to the West. Le Tigre rides fast and I was trying to keep up, take a few pictures for you, and catch up on my friend's life these last six months since I've seen him!

"A" Mountain--or before 1919, Sentinel Peak.

When we arrive, or should I say, when we plop out on Congress Ave--we're just a few blocks from the Mercado and Stef's place. I suddenly know right where we are when we get off the bike path. We'll make a quick trip to the house.

Made it!

I may have to ride back home Friday Night after the party (hope I can get a ride) so I'm glad I got this far. I've ridden 32 miles from my house--then to meet Le Tigre--to get here. Friday I'll ride the path again, and I hope to make a grand entry for the party!

Down Town Tucson Streets.

Now we'll ride through the barrio, across the University of Arizona Campus, to Le Tigre's Casa--and I'll get some air, and extra water bottle to carry for my trip back home to Dog Mtn--and I'll clean up a little before I meet some old Desert San friends for a quick lunch.

Centro neighborhoods--these homes date from the early 1920s. This is the real Tucson, mes amis!

Le Tigre speaking the local dialect with a young woman--she's trying to find her way and Le Tigre helps out--he is the Prince of this City, mes amis!

Old Home from a historic barrio neighborhood that's still looking good!

Live, Love, Sing, Dance, and have Fun!

About to ride into our old Uof A haunts.

Thanks to Le Tigre, we got through the barrio without getting shot--just playing! There are some well known cyclist from Sonora, Mexico and the people who live in barrio respect them--and all cyclists. Not like the Old Gringos with their Buicks and entitlements, only coming to town when Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin start getting to cold for their blood.

Cafes and bicycles as we near the University Campus.

The Frog and Firkin--our favorite pub on University Ave, down by the Main Gate! I love this place dearly, mes amis...

Slow down Le Tigre!

Old Main, built 1881, University of Arizona Campus.

Student Union.

The Old Student Union was just about to be torn down when I arrived here to work in the University Archives in 1999. During most of my Graduate school days, the Mall and the Union were being renovated and rebuilt. Very nice now and glad I got to use it for awhile while I worked here.

The famous chemistry building on the Mall.

Bear Down Gym.

Bear Down, Arizona

Bear Down, Red and Blue

Go! Fight!

Go Fight Win!

Arizona!

Bear Down

(Actual Fight song of The University of Arizona Wild Cats)

Too Cool for School.

Now we're on Le Tigre's old commute route to work and to school. The Kid is fast! I'm trying to take pictures and he's rolling away from me! Actually its good we're on the move because he's keeping me on time for my date at the San.

Trying to keep up with Le Tigre.

Le Tigre is still fit and nimble--we make it through the busy campus like two flying arrows.

Through the old neighborhoods of the city.

A few miles winding our way to Le Tigre's place on a calm and cool Fall day in Tucson was the best for me, Gentle Readers of This Blog. The weather perfect--the blazing heat of the Summer has past, and days are mellow and sleepy-dream-like.

Le Tigre and I visit for a short while and I filled up my tires with air--got some cold water and a spare bottle from Le Tigre as I left his cozy adobe for what would be a long, hot climb to Dog Mtn.

I arrived for my lunch date with Desert San friends at a local spot we all enjoyed. Lunch was great and I was starved. Lots of laughs and catching up on who got sacked and who moved on, etc etc. Then we said our farewells.

Swan--my old commute! Still a challenging climb right out the door after work--always very hot no matter what time of year.

I'm doing okay climbing Swan up into the Foothills!

I rode my old Foothills commute route back home. The only thing different is that I'd get to ride up La Canada as its newly finished, instead of weaving my way through the neighborhoods of Oro Valley. It was hot, and late afternoon--this would end up being a 70 mile ride today for me.

The other side of the Ridge.

In the photo above, I've ridden from down by the Desert San, climbed Swan, traveled on Ina Rd that hugs the Ridge on the other side of the mountains--around the base there on the right, and now up La Canada through Oro Valley. Then I still have to climb to Dog Mtn!

Long day in the saddle.

Raleigh Super Grand Prix--my father bought me this bike at Vendebles Bike Shop in Tulsa, Oklahoma--my home town--in 1977 when I was in High School. The bike is still pretty much original save the Brooks and the rear wheel--still looks and feels brand new!

I put in some miles this week, mes amis, and I'm glad I had this sturdy bike to take me everywhere. I didn't rent a car--because to be honest money is tight now with rent here in Lawrence and still having a mortgage in Tucson.

I'm a cyclists, and a Tucson Cyclist. Many people would trade a lot more to have the weather and the roads and the time to ride like this. Thanks to Le Tigre for guiding me around the city, and thanks for stopping by my blog.

Cheers! Bruce

The Leprechaun of Saguaro National Park

2011-10-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

Chasing Dave Glasgow a.k.a The Leprechaun of Saguaro National Park.

Dave Glasgow has been a friend of mine for quite a long time, Gentle Readers of This Blog. Always an enigma to me, really the only way to describe this über-man is that he is charming, fearless, insightful, fierce, and fleet--he claims to be 105 years old. Ha ha we all laugh--but sometimes I wonder.

If you ever have ridden the 9 mile Scenic Drive in Saguaro National Park--or driven it--you will have no doubt encountered this endearing fellow--my friend Dave!

At the Visitors Center unloading the bikes.

Since I don't have a lot of time this week while I'm visiting, Dave and I drive out to the Park. We'll do three of four loops around the Scenic Drive, and Dave will meet up with friends passing through the Ramada, just inside the entrance of the Park. If you don't see him cruising up and down the fast rollers, past the saguaro--then you may meet him as he stops for water in the Ramada.

The Leprechaun is the totem name from his Furnace Creek 508 ride a few years ago.

Trying to keep up with The Road Warrior.

Saguaro Nat'l Park's East Side Loop is a good place to train. There's not much traffic, and the road is one-way. There's hills, fast rollers, and of course since this is one of God's Favorite spots on Earth--the scenery is fantastic! If you're driving, I would say take a chance to walk around on one of the foot paths or trails, Gentle Reader. This is an ancient, pristine place--and it often gently nudges you into self-reflection.

From the road, looking out over the Rincon Mtn Range, Southeast of Tucson.

Ocotillo Cactus are changing colors--their leaves turn a beautiful yellow and orange, but just for a short time in the Fall.

Every time I'm in the Park there's always something different, always some new sight revealed--as I said, this is a special place, and often when I've been out here, the temps have been murder! Into and way over 100! Today it is calm and cool--everything seems sleepy and dreamy.

The Regal Saguaro--they seem to be talking about things as they raise their arms to the Sun for warmth.

We're on the part of the loop that goes to the picnic area--fast rollers and fun!

Dave rockets ahead of me like a missile!

Here I go making chase!

Dave, and Mt. Lemmon in the background.

The fast two-way part of the Park Loop to the Picnic Area--once again, ahead of us are the Rincon Mts.

Dave Peashock, a good friend of ours--he had a flat and we've stopped to help out. But Dave is okay and about on his way--we'll meet him later at the Ramada. Dave Peashock is a fellow Randonneur, and he and I also crewed for our friend Gerry Goode when he did the 508 Furnace Creek as well.

The Ramada just inside the entrance of Saguaro Nat'l Park.

There's water here to refill your bottles--and this is a rest stop for riders going on to Pistol Hill, Colossal Cave, and other places around the boundary of the Park. Riders of all levels you can meet here and get information about their favorite rides around the city. We met some cyclists visiting from Quebec, and I was able to tell them about riding Saguaro National Park West, McCain Loop, and the Desert Museum.

Bon jour la bon jour!

Thanks for stopping by the blog, Gentle Reader.

Cheers! Bruce

Tucson Vacation or Bury Me with My Bicycle

2011-10-10T09:10:00.001-07:00

Back on Tucson roads for a week of cycling and visiting friends.

I arrived in Phx from KC on Saturday night and then took a quick shuttle to Tucson. Little Egypt, having just packed for deployment for a mission in Iraq, told me I was taking too much! So I re-packed and well, Gentle Readers of This Blog--I did not bring enough warm clothes for my journey. It was cold in the mornings as well as the evenings. When the Sun starts to go down, things cool down pretty fast.

35 miles from my house is the base of Mt. Lemmon, a route many of us know well...

First thing I do Sunday morning is walk up to the storage place to fetch the Grand Prix. We've been renting our place up in Dog Mtn, by the way, and we have some of our things in a storage unit just up the road. I left my 1977 Raleigh Super Grand Prix ready to ride if I came back for a visit, or to ride El Tour given the chance. There she was and all I needed to do was put a little air in tires and I was ready to roll, mes amis! Meeting a friend for an early lunch, I set out for our meeting place down at Ina and Oracle about 15 miles ride for me. Mt. Lemmon, The Stoic Old Man can be seen from quite a distance up ahead!

He's the saguaro for you, mes amis! Mornings are cold but the Sun warms you up pretty quick!

Entering Rancho Vistoso and there's Pusch Ridge with Oro Valley laying at the base.

I'll have to ride around the Ridge to meet my friend for my lunch date. My appetite is growing as large as this range, mes amis! I'm starving! and I need coffee too! I'll get a little speed going as I fly down from Dog Mtn and Rancho, but then I'll have to make the big climb back out of Oro Valley for the last leg.

The Northwest side of Tucson where I live still feels rural. Things are spread out. Fortunately the roads are pretty good and you can roll at a good pace.

La Canada! Pronounced "La Can Y'ought Ta" not "La Can ah Duh" he he he...

It has been many years under construction but La Canada is complete from Moore Road up in Dog Mtn, straight South all the way to Ina Rd--this is good for me because it's a straight shot with new roads and awesome new bike lane! For my ride to work, and for most of us Tucson Cyclists, we had twits and turns through side streets in Oro Valley to get down that far--car drivers had to do the same--so although there was a bike lane, it could get busy, crowded, and the pavement was beat up a long the way.

Traveling La Canada is a breeze, Gentle Readers of This Blog--I easily cruised down the bike lane at 22 mph. I was also lucky when a couple rode up beside me and they gave me some more detailed information about the new bike lanes in the city. I have to say as we chatted there we smiles all around because like most of us Tucson Cyclists we've been supporting and waiting for these kinds of routes for years.

This new road will be my life-line to my friends and my house up in Dog Mtn. I can get down into the city quickly, but of course going home will be mostly an up-hill slog for 15 miles. Every adventure I have this week will require the long climb back to Dog Mtn. I am grateful for the new safe and fast route. I'll be putting in the miles, mes amis.

Big Sexy on Super Grand Prix.

The Super rode like when I was taking her out on the hot muggy streets as a skinny punk-kid back in my Tulsa Days. Steel lugged but still light as a feather, I was comfortable and riding solid and fast! When that Glorious Day comes Gentle Readers of This Blog--Bury me with this Bicycle!

Cheers! Bruce

My Tucson Visit

2011-10-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

Bon jour mes amis--I'm in Tucson for a week, visiting from Kansas. I'll post pictures and write to you all about my adventures soon.

Cheers! Bruce

We Become Our Ancestors

2011-09-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

Veterans of Viet Nam, Afghanistan, and Iraq--Haskell Pow Wow Grounds 2011.

Gentle Readers of This Blog: Little Egypt has set to deploy for a year long mission which will take her to Iraq. This deployment was known to us and her Kansas Battalion has already left for Ft. Hood, Texas. She will join them shorty and in a few week they will probably go to Kuwait and then on to the Baghdad area.

It has been a few years since I've been to a Pow Wow, mes amis. Rarely if ever do I dance, but as this was a special welcome to new students at Haskell--and since the Veterans, past and present, are always remembered--I was invited to be with Little E in the Grand Entry. Little Egypt will retain her faculty position at Haskell--but here friends and colleagues wanted to pay special gratitude and offer blessings and support.

The Drums and Singers unite all people.

When you hear the drums and step out in the cool September air--and you feel the drums moving through and into you--somehow the sky and the and the sun and the grass under your feet, and everything seems to sync with the rhythm.. You feel happy, and you know that you are part of everything alive--and it is sacred. The Drums humble you, Gentle Reader.

Honoring the Warriors--the Color Guard will lead the Pow Wow.

A Warrior is someone of the People--no matter what tribe, no matter what nation--who has come forward to defend The People when that time befalls. In times of War, be it on a battle field or standing up for rights and justice--what is remembered, I believe, is the courage and discipline and inner strength a person must have to face the unknown. The confusion, the dullness, the terror, the loneliness, the pain--Death and Death's random pick of who will live and who will perish--those thoughts and to survive them must mean Warriors like Little Egypt must remain focused.

The Drum gives us Hope for the Future--and helps us remember our relatives.

Cars, like ponies, stand around and seem to be enjoying the pow wow as well.

James--a respected Elder.

One of our friends from Haskell, James, helped get the Honor Dance for Little Egypt set up--which was a surprise for my wife as she is very modest and private, as most Navajo are, and not about drawing attention to herself. But the Veterans want to do this for her so she agrees to participate.

James and Little Egypt--James is a Marine and Viet Nam Veteran, on the staff at Haskell, well known and loved by the students.

Now this is a War Pony!

Waiting for the Pow Wow to begin--Running on Indian Time, mes amis!

Rico and I are are pretty nervous to be right up front with the Color Guard during the Grand Entry--this is traditionally the spot reserved only for the Veterans. As we are family members, we are invited to join the Warriors.

My thing I'm sorta hung up about is that I don't look Indian. In the 1890's my Scot-Irish ancestors married Cherokee and Choctaw women in my native Oklahoma, as the girls families had land.

As far as I know I have Great Uncles (my Great Grandfather Bruce's older brothers) that married Indian woman, but I don't know as I have met any of them. The Wardlaws--the Great Uncles of my Grandmother, I have met some of those Wardlaw Choctow--I remember they were tall women with pure white skin, with green or blue eyes, and raven black hair. They said we were related but I'm not sure--

We relax before the Grand Entry--seeing Little Egypt in uniform again makes me aware that she will be leaving for Iraq soon--like the days before when she got ready to go to Afghanistan. She was in Afghanistan for two years, 2006 through 2008--they were two very long years.

Haskell Pow Wow Grounds. All are welcome!

I see students and faculty, and I see a lot of Indian students I've seen up at KU too. Besides the students and faculty, Indians living in the community are here as well. All are welcome--but I of course feel like the only white guy. Ha ha ha its okay because, Gentle Reader, All Are Welcome! No matter nationality, race, color, tribe--because this is a time and place of Friendship and Being Thankful.

Preparing for the Grand Entry--we will dance with the Veterans.

Little Egypt will lead the Grand Entry.

An evening of dancing will begin at the Pow Wow as the Sun sets.

When You Dance--You Become Your Ancestors!

Good Luck Little Egypt--Take Care! We will send Good Thought and Feelings Your Way!

Cheers! Bruce

Red Tail Ride with Bruce

2011-09-23T15:15:00.001-07:00

A young Red Tail Hawk watches me ride down the road.

I've been working a lot, Gentle Readers of This Blog--on my day off, I rode into a sunny and cool Autumn Afternoon and headed out to Lone Star Lake.

Corn has been harvested.

The Corn Crop was mostly burned up this Summer. Farmers I know told me that things started out well--then came the hottest Summer on record. The Corn burned up in the heat.

This wagon has seen many Summers, and Winters too.

Passing the farms on the way out to the Lake.

Soybean fields are yellow and gold.

There is a slight chill as I pace myself down the road.

September is the time for Sunflowers in Kansas.

Red Barn on the way out to Lone Star Lake.

Fields of Gold and Green.

I had heard that migrating Monarch Butterflies were migrating through the area, and I wanted to get out to the Baker Wetlands to see if I could spot more--Monarchs were all in the back garden of The Little House while I got the bike ready for the ride. As I rode out into the Wilds, mes amis, I saw a few here and there but could not get a good photo for you. Anyway, as I rode, my mind emptied and I enjoyed the colors and the sunshine on my day off.

The Big Cottonwood on the Farm.

Country Road.

Country Road avec Le Rouler.

Tallest Tree on The Farm!

Lone Star Lake.

The Lake is shaped like a star and one can ride almost around it. It was very still as I was the only person out by the waters. I could see fish stirring as there were no boats and no people to make waves. It was very peaceful as I glided over the Lake Rd.

Riding around the Lake under the canopy of oaks.

Arm warmers rolled down as the sun is high and warm.

Before I came to the end of the pavement, I made a turn and there was a flock of about twenty wild turkey! A wonderful sight to behold, mes amis! They scurried into the trees to escape.

Under the Big Oak at the end of the Lake Rd, I stop for a quick lunch.

A spider comes out to take a look and see who is there.

Under the still and coolness of the oaks and walnut trees, I can hear hundreds of song birds singing--and they dart about above me. On the shadow of the Lake Rd, I can see the movement of the hawks that patrol the tree tops. That spider above crept out to look me over--I needed to step lively because as I looked around there seemed to be a squad of this speceis under-foot.

The Farm on the Other Side of The Lake.

Time to ride home.

The Big Cottonwood on The Farm telling me Autumn will be Winter before long.

A bridge for a tractor to go from the road to the fields. I had never noticed it before and saw it as I rode to The Lake. I wanted to stop and get quick photo on the way back.

Haskell Victory Arch from the 1920's

Home Coming game at Haskell is October 1st I believe.

Over the old down town streets to get home--saves a little time, mes amis.

Bike lane for awhile and then home to The Little House!

Cheers! Bruce

Club Rider

2011-09-05T19:55:00.001-07:00

Landmark at Hwy 32 and 2200 Rd.

I had invitation to ride this Labor Day with the Leavenworth Bike Club, mes amis, so Monday morning I hopped on the Mighty Trek and set out to rendezvous with the club in Tonganoxie, just under a 20 mile ride for me.

Leaving River City for Hwy 24-40.

Hot weather--then rain--then cool weather here in Kansas, Gentle Readers of This Blog. My allergies have been severe, and I've tried about every antihistamine to relieve my misery.

Saturday, Little Egypt had me try some Tylenol P.M. saying that if I kept working around the Little House, and had a cup of coffee or two, I'd be able to stay awake. She told me the stuff had a bit of Benedryl in it and that would stop my sneezing, etc. Well, what it left me was pretty much dopey all day--a day I could have just gone out on the bike for a ride. I was pretty useless and got no work or chores done. Sunday turned out to be a bust too with errands and bills to go over--so I was very happy when Rosie of the Leavenworth Bike Club organized a Monday Ride!

Wearing arm warmers this morning!

The morning was a bit cool, cool enough for some light arm warmers. Also was a strong headwind all the way too--but that was okay because I'd meet The Club Riders in Tonganoxie and then have a great tailwind back to Lawrence.

The Big House on the Hill.

Out of Lawrence I catch Hwy 24-40 and then take a quick left onto Hwy 32, riding East until Leavenworth County Rd 1 and head North. This Rd is also 2200 Rd which goes through Eudora, and if I ride even further South takes me to Hwy 56 (Old Santa Fe Trail) where I rode into Baldwin City a few weeks ago.

Hwy 32 is quiet--there's a bit of a headwind--and it's cold. But I make good time. I can see a Big House way up on the Hill while I'm on LV 1 and I know that I'm almost back to Hwy 24-40 just outside of Tonganoxie. I'll ride on there for a few miles and then meet The Bike Club.

Just off 32 and on 24-40 into Tonganoxie, KS.

The Bike Club Rolls into Town!

Plans have changed as The Club was coming down from Leavenworth--it seems that they won't be riding down to Lawrence, but want to have breakfast here in Tonganoxie and then ride back up to Leavenworth. I don't blame them--it is a windy day and it would be 40 miles back in a strong headwind. I agree to ride along to The Club Breakfast, and then head back to Lawrence on my own.

Ted and Bill and we're on our way to an open Cafe!

An open Cafe just off the Hwy--I need coffee mes amis!

Club Riders at Club Breakfast--my kind of Bike Club!

I get asked to keep going and ride back with everyone to Leavenworth. Rosie offers to give me a ride back so I accept! We'll drive back the way we rode up so I can see the route for next time I want to do a ride up to Leavenworth on my own. These are great guys and all faster than me, so it's making me work to keep up and stay in the pack.

The Bike Club Pace Line.

I've not ridden in groups before and this is good practice for me--I am made to feel welcome and I have to say I've gained confidence too. I did a pull up front and as I dropped back, here's a photo for you, mes amis, of the Pace Line. This is the best kind of riding to do! We're making good time and cutting through the headwinds.

Regrouping as we begin to take on the Hills to Leavenworth.

There's going to be three big hills on the way up to Leavenworth, and on the second I get dropped--but that's okay because as everyone spreads out, there's stops where everyone re-groups.

Ted pulls me along so I don't fall too far behind--thanks, Man!

Re-group for the last leg into Leavenworth.

Ted and Rosie help me along so I don't get left behind and get lost out here in the Wilds. We have one last leg into the city and form up a small pace-line for a strong finish.

Rosie rides her Madone.

Jan and Rosie as we knock out the last few miles.

Shaun riding strong and leading us up the road.

Yours, mes amis--trying to keep up and stay on board!

We make it! Jan at the finish.

Rick, Rosie, and Ted--at the finish. This was a fun ride and I'm glad I got to ride up to Leavenworth--my first time to this historic city.

See you next time!

There will be the annual Buffalo Bill Century September 24th and I will do my best to be ready and hopefully ride with members of The Club. My goal has always been to ride a century ride, like El Tour de Tucson, in under six hours. I've come close a few times and don't know if I can do it on the Buffalo Bill--but if I ride with a pack I just might!

Cheers! Bruce

Eudora the Explorer

2011-08-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

Making a big Kansas Climb in the early morning.

One of the bike shop lads told me about a quick loop through the little village of Eudora that he often does. So this morning I thought I'd give it a go--do something different--which is what I try to do every ride, mes amis.

Lone Rider on back-coutry roads.

I'm seeing plenty of deer and turkey out here, oh and the cows are fat and the roosters cry as I glide by the farms. I went out "15 - 15" which is East on 15th Street right out from the Little House, and then South down Haskell Ave. On the grid of the county, mes amis, Haskell is 1500 Rd North. This means at 15th and Haskell I'm 15 miles East and 15 miles North of the very Southwest corner of the county... 15 - 15 just saves me from having to back-track. It's a straight shot and I'm on my way.

Down hill for a few miles.

Out here I see no one, and a few times I've seen this Triathlete chap on 1100 Rd coming the opposite direction--he never waves or says hello. Seems his arse must be hurting so much that he can't enjoy the morning. Anyway, I'm going to head North on 2200 Rd where I usually turn South. I'll ride through Eudora and eventually hit Hwy 32, I road I know well.

A mammoth barn of some sort! Time to explore!

This looks like an old county building, or maybe all the Eudora farmers got together and built this building long ago. Eudora was a German immigrant community in which the Germans bought the land from the Principal Chief, and land owner, Pascal Fish--he was a Shawnee.

Several old tractors under restoration inside, and a handful of vintage cars.

This place is gigantic--that big combine in there is huge!

I'm wondering what the story behind this old building is about? Again, probably built by the Germans of Eudora, as it is practical, beautiful, and retains a sense of duty. Good feelings and spirits are around, and I am welcome just for a visit of a few minutes.

Eudora!

The Germans that bought the land from Fish and put in their town were quite taken by Fish's sweet young daughter, Eudora, and so the story goes they named the town after her. I'm approaching and I can see that Eudora has become a bedroom community of Kansas City.

Lawrence is too expensive (mostly slum lords and riff-raff) so Eudora is less expensive, not a bad commute from KC--and you don't have to have a bunch of greasy college bros living next to you with empties in the front lawn from the night before.

Unfortunately I got a cold reception as I pedaled into town up there. Some young spoiled white girl in a fast expensive car came out of no where right behind me and laid on the horn for no fuckin' reason. Her's was the first car I had come across all morning, Gentle Readers of This Blog--I hope she wasn't of the original German stock that probably still live in these parts--that would be a shame...

Old Main Street of Eudora, KS, from the 1850's.

Believe me, there was nothing happening here in Eudora when I arrived. I was looking for a cafe or someplace to get a cup of coffee. The only business that seemed open was the Antique Shop. There was another place a bit down the road that looked like it was a bar at night and then a greasy spoon for breakfast next morning. Parking lot full of big farm trucks covered in mud and full of tools and crap in the beds. These people are always very considerate on the Kansas roads--they wave when they drive by too. Maybe next time I'll belly up to the bar for some grits.

Maybe I could find a cool old bike?

Oh yeah, these were German farmers I'm sure. They build stuff that lasts.

Vieux Rouler sur les rues du Vieux Lawrence.

So I rode North through Eudora and on up 2200 Rd. It was new country for me, winding and rolling through green forests--I was near the Kansas River. I rode over the "Kaw" on a narrow county bridge just big enough for a farm truck--and wanted to take a picture--but best to move on as the bridge is narrow with no side rails--oh but the river was serene and still. Those few moments were worth the ride, mes amis!

Soon I was right up on Hwy 32. I was a bit surprised to see that I was in a place where I'd come down from Tonganoxie weeks before. So this is how the roads play out I thought to myself. I would have bit of a long ride home so I found a good spin and kept it up, and soon I was coming into Old Historic Downtown. Still everyone at my house was asleep. I went and got a cup of coffee at the Starbucks--I was the only one there so I didn't have to get the Lycra stare. Just got smiles from the young girls working their morning shift. I found some shade and watched Interzone start to wake up.

Cheers! Bruce

Sunday Summer Ride

2011-08-21T13:19:00.000-07:00

Early morning ride with Little Egypt on the Levee.

I was all geared up to do my usual road ride, Gentle Readers of This Blog, when to my surprise Little Egypt was up--and she wanted me to go on a levee ride with her. I said okay but we had to stop for coffee was my only demand. I don't usually see Little E until I get back and I've ridden 50 miles--so it is a surprise to have her awake and ready for a trip!

About six mile out from Lawrence, on the levee trail along the Kansas River.

The levee system surrounding the farmland around Lawrence has been transformed into miles of flat straight trails for running and biking. I believe the levees were built as WPA projects in the 1930s, and the running, walking, and biking paths built on top of them in the early 1990s.

Finishing up that cup of coffee.

We can ride about a mile and then be in the heart of Old Downtown. We made a quick stop at Starbucks, and then in a few blocks we're over the river and onto the levee trail. This is more Little Egypt's speed; no cars and no hills--just straight out and back, and a chance to get some sun and exercise.

The Kansas River on one side, and the farmland on the other.

On the trail with the wife.

We ride out about six miles to where the levee dead-ends by the rail road tracks. I know the roads out beyond here quite well now, as I can see Hwy 24 heading East to Perry and Lecompton--the Hwy follows the bluff, or the breaks of the river. The ancient river you can tell from the geology is about 10 miles wide. I think this accounts for the rich farmland we're riding through. Back in the day, probably well worth building a levee to save the land for producing crops.

A mountain bike trail runs just on the bank.

It's one way so you have to be sure you start at the right place and go the right direction, otherwise you won't see people coming back and you'll crash. Runners take both the levee and the mountain bike train as well.

River City--we'll cross the bridge and be back in Old Down Town.

Many of the 1858 buildings remain on Mass Ave as we come back into town.

Very humid out as the morning dew burns off in the warm summer sun.

Old East Lawrence Neighborhood Street.

Almost back to the Little House.

Just haven't had a chance to post all the photos from my rides lately but I'll be back on that soon, mes amis! Thanks for coming along for the ride!

Cheers! Bruce

Clinton Lake Ride

2011-08-15T06:57:00.001-07:00

A wrong turn and a big climb.

I went out for what I hoped would be a short and quick ride out to Clinton Lake. It had been a few weeks since I'd gone out to Lone Star Lake, so when I took the wrong left turn, a little too early it seems, it just meant some added miles--and trying to get home before dark, mes amis!

Evening Summer Sun is setting on the Horizon.

The light this evening is spectacular! I'm used to getting out in the early morning, having everything ready the night before--this time I scrambled to get everything together for an evening ride--which meant the Sun was way ahead of me, calling it a day.

On top of the hill and the East end of Clinton Lake, with the Dam coming into view.

Although I made the turn too early, I still got to see the lake, and I knew where I was at on the map (which I didn't bring or look at before I left) so it was okay with me--I'd just have to climb back up the hill again to get back to the right road.

Mt. Oread about 8 miles or so out from the Dam--click on to see a bigger picture of the KU Campus...

Climbing and climbing to get to the town of Clinton, on the Lake.

This was supposed to be a recovery ride...

The town of Clinton is kind of out on a the edge of the lake where the land juts out into the water. I haven't been there but I sorta know how to get there. It's further than I thought, and the sun is going down and I'm climbing. I also just brought water and no cliff bars or anything to eat--I kinda messed up.

Right turn here--finally made it.

Lots deer watching me from the corn fields. Their heads would pop-up for a moment to give me a look, then they'd sprint off.

Hey this is nice as I start getting into town!

Not open.

I had been riding pretty fast I thought, with a very high and steady cadence--but I had no idea how far I'd ridden. Maybe I should have turned around because it was about 7 pm. The Clinton Store was closed up, as it was Sunday Evening and I had been seeing a steady stream of people leaving with boats in-tow back to Lawrence.

Well, made it to the Lake--one photo for you--now got to turn around!

I did bring a flicky tail light but no head light.

There were only a few sail boats left on the lake, taking advantage of a good wind; I wanted to get out here today because the forecast for the rest of the week is rain. The breeze was picking up, the Sun setting, and I felt an urgency to be outta there. I sent Little Egypt a quick text telling her I'd be home by just before dark (hope so anyway)

Home stretch with some down-hill to get me back! Still have some miles to ride before dark!

Football Team practices at Haskell--a sign Summer will soon wane.

With little water left, and cramps creeping into my legs, I make it back into Interzone. Luckily I had some down-hill rollers to make up some distance. I took my back road route through the Haskell Campus to stay off the city streets and students-getting-back traffic.

Little Egypt and Rico had gone to Taco Bell and had left me a Burrito Supreme and a few tacos. I was starving, mes amis, and shoved 'em into my face. It was 8:45 in the evening! Dark outside now--but was a fun ride. Best to do on a Sunday morning next time don't you think?

Cheers! Bruce

Super Chief

2011-08-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

Hwy 24-40 a.k.a Chieftain Highway.

I was going to meet the Leavenworth Bike Club up in Tonganoxie, then ride back down to Lawrence with them to a spot for breakfast. Instead of taking Hwy 24 up to Tonganoxie I took the very mellow Hwy 32, also called Linwood Rd, East to County Rd 1.

These corn fields are part of KU's experimental farms.

Getting Ready to head East on 32.

Hwy 32, my kind of road, mes amis!

Spinnin' up the road.

My computer is not working right, Gentler Readers of This Blog--not sure why but I've messed with it quite a bit--the cadence feature is okay but I can't get the MPH to show. So I don't have speed or mileage. I tended to be a masher--that is, I rode in big gears and rarely shifted. Boss got me training with a heart-rate monitor (which has since stopped working as well) and riding at a faster cadence. So for the 17 miles or so I'd go to Tonganoxie, I'd try to keep up between 88 or 95 RPMs. I headed out the door pretty early to give my self plenty of time to meet the Club Riders.

The Big Herd on Honey Creek Rd.

I know I'm getting close to the end of Hwy 32 and where I need to hop onto LV County Rd 1--the road changes it's name to Honey Creek for a few miles at a big turn, and then I see the large herd of those big cattle. They "moo" at me to announce my passing by their pasture.

Straight shot up LV County Rd 1 to Tonganoxie!

I got up to the Casey's Store and rested and ate a snack--and chatted with local farmers as they gassed up and got coffee before heading out to work. I'd ridden pretty hard and with a bit of a tail wind. I made it the 17 miles or so in just over an hour. After a few minutes, the Leavenworth Club showed up.

I rode back with the Club to Lawrence down Hwy 24. I was a bit surprised because last time I went up 24, there was a lot more traffic going down--mainly big trucks--so I thought for sure we'd avoid this route. But we took off in a fast pace-line, single file--everyone taking a turn pulling up and down the smooth rollers.

This was cool for me because I've not ridden in a pace-line much. You have to stay focused and alert. We rode into town fast in what seemed no time at all. Everyone took a turn up front but me, as when it was mine turn we were in downtown. So, sorry I didn't get some pace-line action photos for you this trip, mes amis. Maybe later when I prove myself a worthy rider, and I get permission to take a few photographs.

We stopped in at the LBS where the Club was warmly greeting by all the lads--and we got to leave our bikes parked in the shop while we walked around the block to a little cafe that I didn't even know existed!

Cheers! Bruce

Tonganoxie via Chieftain Hwy

2011-08-06T13:42:00.001-07:00

The heat wave has been quite severe here in Kansas the last few weeks.

This weekend I had Friday Saturday Sunday off--I was ready to set out Friday but thunderstorms keep me in all day. With a heat wave that had temps up to 114 degrees, there was little to do but stay indoors and try to keep cool. Rain and much needed rain, Gentle Readers of This Blog came and gave some relief!

I got this feeling someone was creeping up behind me.

I set off early--Little Egypt had Nat'l Guard drill, so I waited for her to be out the door before I took off myself. While I stopped to adjust my new brakes a bit--caught this curious fox checking things out.

Old Downtown in the morning rain. Thunderstorms were on the way but I really needed to get out and ride--you know the feeling mes amis! Rain or no--I'm on the road.

Slumlords have been getting things ready for the students, their main customers, whom will be arriving in a week or so.

The Kansas River.

Point of no return!

I'll be riding up to Tonganoxie via Hwy 40/24 or the Old Chieftain Hwy. It's the most direct route and I want to see how fast I can go--intel was that it was not the best road as traffic zooms past at 65 mph. There's a bit of a shoulder but as I got on the road, there was little traffic and I was okay with the shoulder.

Chieftain Hwy heading Northeast

Rain in the Face.

As I got going the rain and wind picked up. It's been so hot here I didn't mind. The air was cool--but I could taste the sweat on my lips--although it was raining, I was working pretty hard. I also noticed a lot more traffic coming back into Lawrence on this Hwy--that's what people told me--so I will opt for another route back like they suggested.

Farmland mostly between here and there.

Tonganoxie--obviously now turning into a suburb of Kansas City.

West End Cafe, and breakfast with the Leavenworth Bike Club!

I look for a place to stop at a cafe or somewhere to get out of the rain. I'm soaked and dirty from the storm I've ridden through--by chance I see a group of cyclist just going into a cafe--I quickly follow them in. They let me sit with them and I get intel about my route out to Basehor (where I have a job interview at the public library) and we have a nice chat about cycling and my route home. They are from the Leavenworth Bike Club, and a hardy bunch as well! They have missed out on the rain as they're dry and clean, whereas I'm still dripping wet. The hot coffee warms me up.

A fast seven miles to Basehor from Tonganoxie with the pack.

The group decides to guide me to Basehor, Kansas to the library where I'll have the interview. I'm glad they did because my planned route on Hwy 24 would have been a bit dangerous. They'll go the back way through Basehor and then on back up to Leavenworth.

Members of the Leavenworth Bike Club.

It was my good fortune to meet these riders. They were a great bunch of people and they invited me to ride with them again soon. Two of the gentlemen, Ted and Ted (there's Ted, Ted, Bill, Mike, and Rosie) did the recent Ride Across Kansas. They actually rode out to Colorado--across Kansas--to then do the Ride Across Kansas. Allure Libre! These are guys I want to ride with, mes amis!

On my way for a great ride home on good roads.

At the Basehor Library, where I hope to gain some part-time work as a Librarian, I went in and looked over some detailed county maps for my ride back. Some bridges were out so I had to be sure I got on the right road heading West then South, back to Hwy 32 to head West to Hwy 24 and back into Lawrence.

On county roads.

Muggy and now getting hot, mes amis!

I climbed into Tonga--now I have a fast descent--time to hammer and get some speed and distance.

I ride 22 mph for about six miles back to the Chieftain Hwy--

I'm glad the sign was still up because I did not want to miss this turn.

I'm back on 24 for just about a mile then I will turn left on County Rd 1. This road will take me South and over Interstate 70--then on to Hwy 32 which I'll ride West back to Lawrence.

The cows are coming home, and so am I

West!

Gentle Readers of This Blog by now where you see I'm about to head West on 32 it's well over 100 degrees! And very muggy too! I spent a lot of time having breakfast with the Bike Club, and in the library--which was brand-new and very nice. Wish me luck getting a job there, mes amis!

That was a ride! Fast and with a tailwind--but so hot! I make a left and then I'm about seven miles North of Old Downtown.

Bone-Shaking Ceremonious Finish.

My ride ended up being right at 57 miles--and to tell the truth, I felt pretty good after despite the climb, the wind, the rain, and the heat at the finish. I drank plenty of water--but should have taken a bit more food. I felt like I was going to bonk as I was getting hungry.

At the tail end, to avoid busy morning traffic, I took the back way through Old East Lawrence.

Yeah, I know--over the bricks back to the Little House.

Cheers! Bruce

Santa Fe Trail by Bike

2011-07-17T14:05:00.000-07:00

On the bike at sunrise. Heat advisory for Interzone--it will feel like 110 today.

My plan was a ride out to Baldwin City, Kansas--a place I've been a few times now--and see for myself the wagon wheel ruts on the Old Santa Fe Trail a few miles East of the city. I'd just finished a few books on William Bent that Little Egypt had used to do some checking for a researcher that had made some inquiries about his family in the Kansas City area.

The Santa Fe Trail started roughly around Kansas City and traveled Southwest to Santa Fe, NM--about 1200 miles if I remember right. Bent and his business partner brother began by bringing trade items to the Indians via the trail, and then returning back with beaver pelts and buffalo robes for of all things--men's felt hats--which were the rage in the Eastern US and Europe at that time.

The route was used for more than 50 years, from the 1820's through the 1870's. I'm very excited for a chance to see a legendary setting and chapter in history of the Old West. For all I know, my family members used the Santa Fe Trail at some point--may have seen it--traded on it--and been close to where I'm going to travel!

Pretty hot and muggy--even at 6:30 am.

I studied my map and just tried to travel light as possible. I'd have the headwind going out of course, but wanted to get out early so I could explore the site and take some photographs. My plan would be to catch the tailwind back into Lawrence and get in just under 100 degrees.

Heading due South down Hwy 1055.

On the way out of town this morning I took "15 - 15" which is the intersection of 15th Street (N 1500 Rd and E 1500) and Haskell Ave. The way the grid is set up in the county, I started at 15 miles North and 15 miles East of the Southwest corner of Douglas County. Its some sort of survey system and road system--my neighbor Paul the Fire Fighter explained it to me. If I'm out on the roads and if there's a sign on them, I can figure out where I am exactly on the county grid. If I ever got in a fix, I could call the police of fire dept and they'd know right where to find me.

Kansas Farmland.

In the little village of Sibleyville, the farmers are doing quite well. The fields are fertile and the crops are looking great. These guys out here farming are wealthy!

Airport at Vinland, Kansas.

At Hwy 460 I come to the village of Vinland. In the past I've kept going South, but this time I head West. I've never actually seen the airport--and here it is! I think these guys are running a crop dusting business out of Vinland.

Sure enough! A crop duster ready and waiting.

Have you ever seen these things fly? Its crazy how low they dart over the fields then swoop up after they make their pass! The grass airstrip looks well-groomed, however these planes are tough and rugged and could land in a pasture if they needed to.

The Coal Creek Library, established in 1869.

This is one of two or three old buildings that look like they've survived the ages. Roosters and chickens seemed a little edgy as I approached for a closer look. Dogs and people seemed to be still sleeping--waking everybody up on a hot humid Sunday morning didn't seem neighborly at the time. There was a kitty cat sitting on the porch watching me with some suspicion but she slinked away as I took the photo for you Gentle Reader of This Blog.

Come to Church.

Behind this church, which seemed to be too unsafe for the congregation to use after awhile, was a new church--then that church got too old--and so there's another church behind it as well! It seemed that there were six or sever airplanes in Vinland--and just as many churches!

For a few miles I saw that some farmer had put large rocks on the fence posts--and strapped them down. Like are the rocks gonna float off into space or something? I don't get it...

I'll take this road South for five miles and intersect with Hwy 56--The Santa Fe Trail!

By the way that road you see up there was freakin' straight as an arrow--and due South. The headwind was brutal and sometimes would change to a sudden crosswind. Also, the road was narrow and I did not want to get blown into the ditch or run into the ditch by a farm truck. People tend to drive a bit fast but slowed and gave me plenty of room when they passed. Just hard to see up on hills with on-coming traffic. Luckily I only saw about three cars the whole stretch, mes amis.

Hot now, and a head wind. My top speed is only about 14 mph this stretch.

Church and cemetery across the road seem all that remain of the village of Clearfield. Rest in Peace those who reside by the side of the Hwy.

What ever those people did, they sure did a good job--this corn is perfect--and goes on for miles.

Did I mention there was corn?

Hwy 56 at last! Looking East on the Santa Fe Trail, mes amis!

Finally at Hwy 56 I'd get to turn West--and get out of this headwind that was kicking my ass... In a few miles I arrive in Black Jack--where John Brown had a gun battle with Pro-Slavery Missourians--and then I'd find the park where the wagon wheel ruts could be seen.

I've ridden 20 miles from where I just jumped on Hwy 56--a little less than half-way home.

I'm on the historic Santa Fe Trail !!!

Black Jack does not exist any longer, but is an important milestone in Pre-Civil War History.

So you have to understand that the Santa Fe Trail is basically Hwy 56. The original trail got plowed under and paved over--and pretty much disappeared when the Rail Road arrived in the late 1870's. It would have taken us six months to make it from Kansas City to Santa Fe, New Mexico Territory. With the train, and then the train connections to the steamboat towns on the Missouri River, that travel time was reduced to a few weeks. Outfitting a wagon with food and supplies, pulled by oxen, cost maybe several thousand dollars--I believe I read that a train ticket one-way in the 1870's was $68.00...

About Black Jack the village--well John Brown was on the prowl out here and pretty close to where I am he and his men captured some Pro-Slavery Raiders who had been terrorizing the Free State inhabitants. The story goes that John Brown, a very pious man, stopped into a church on a Sunday Service--and was unrecognized by the congregation of Pro-Slavery leaning Kansans. He over-heard where the guerrilla fighters had their camp and so that night (4 am) he ambushed them. After a day-long battle, the Pro-Slavery blokes had had enough. They surrendered to John Brown.

The Mighty Trek. I could not find the 1825 marker of Cornel Selbey's surveying mission of the Santa Fe Trail. I had read that it had been vandalized often. It may have been out there in the tall prairie grass somewhere and I couldn't see its location.

When the taste in men's hats changed, and felt hats were no longer in style, the market for beaver pelts to make the hats dropped out. Trade with the Indians for furs ended--plus the railroad pushing to California--made the Santa Fe Trail wither and die--but not after making some men like William Bent, Kit Carson, and others famous--and infamous.

Ivan Boyd was a biologist that taught at KU and/or Baker University. This is the entrance to the 18 acres of Virgin Prairie--and what remains of the original Santa Fe Trail!

Can you see the depression in the earth? Starting from the top of the rise in the center, and then curving past where my bike is parked? My bike and this sign are on a bump or like a median--the ruts pass to the left and to the right.

This is looking straight ahead East. I'm standing in the depression worn down by the wagons, and although you can't see the ruts, I can feel them under my feet.

Left to right you can make out the depression and see how the wagon wheels have worn ruts--the grass is about knee-high and very thick (this is so cool by the way!)

If you click on these pictures they're bigger so you can see more detail, mes amis. I'm standing on top of that rise, and I'm looking West. You can see my Mighty Trek parked down by the sign--there's two sets of ruts in the foreground and a set on the other side of the sign. These depressions were carved into the prairie by hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children--along with their wagons and livestock--heading West.

This is pristine virgin prairie--the grass is thick and waist high when I'm not in the Trail's wagon wheel ruts. The air is sweet, and thousands of birds are singing and catching insects for breakfast. I'm very happy to be here and able to walk on the actual Trail itself!

I'm standing in a wagon wheel rut, which is still very solid. Venturing off into the grass, the ground is soft and feels mushy, and the grass is waist high on me.

Wagon traveling East, back to Kansas City, and then on to St. Louis, would be carrying beaver pelts and buffalo robes traded from the Indians. Going West, this would be about the time travelers would have started--June and July--as there would be plenty of grass for their livestock to eat along the way.

I've walked West down the hill from where the Mighty Trek was parked by that sign, and now I'm at a gravel road which seems to be the end of prairie and the ruts for now. This if for folks that just drive past real quick I think, and see the ruts from their car.

Colera was a big deal at the height of travel on the Santa Fe Trail. I could figure because of all the people and animals--water got contaminated with shit and urine--and often the trail was a muddy slimy morass to struggle through. The rail road made things faster and cheaper--still from 1822 to 1877! Wow that is impressive!

Can you see the ruts? You can click on this photo to make it larger... I took this from the side and across the road as I was heading West on Hwy 56. If you were driving East on 56, you could just catch a fleeting glance...

I'm back on The Santa Fe Trail--on my bike--happy to have made this journey!

Baker University, established 1856.

I ride to Baldwin City via West Hwy 56, but before I stop in and get water, I wanted to quick check out the campus of Baker University. During the Lizard Under the Skillet Ride with the Lawrence Bike Club, I rode past here and heard a few things about the buildings.

First University in Kansas.

When Lawrence was attacked by Missouri Guerillas, students from Baker could see the smoke from Downtown Lawrence fires fifteen miles North. The raiders shot and killed anyone they could find. Lawrence residents were caught unprepared for the murauders, and when John Brown caught wind of the attack, he came to this part of Kansas Territory to kick ass and take names.

This chapel was taken apart brick by brick and then re-assembled here at Baker.

Will try to find out the name of this chapel and get this up for you--I did not photograph the historic marker which explained from where in England the chapel came from. It was in decline and disrepair in England, and then sold to Baker and rebuilt here in 1995. Whatever the story, the place is quite lovely, and the time of morning I was there it seemed that I was a welcomed visitor.

To the Glory of God indeed, mes amis!

There has been a stop here at this corner for over 150 years, Gentle Reader of This Blog...

My trip would not be complete without pulling into the Santa Fe Trail McDonald's now would it, Gentle Reader of This Blog? I need water, I'm hungry, and a cup of coffee would taste divine.

While here, I struck up a conversation with some motorcycle riders--a fellow my age and a nice woman too--on a date they were actually. They were quite impressed with my ride, and I gave them my map of the route I took (I down-loaded it from the Lawrence Bike Club's website--members only part)

They did not know the roads I had taken, and the woman was very excited when I told her about my visit to the wagon ruts on the Santa Fe Trail. They really knew very little about the Trail and its significance.

The woman was originally from Tulsa herself so that was cool! They had very nice touring motorcycles and gear, and were eager to take a quick trip (for them anyway on motorcycles) down to the Park. I showed them the pictures on my camera that I've posted here for you--soon they were off, waving goodbye as they headed East on Hwy 56.

Bent's Fort was on the Northern Route--I'm not sure why the split there on the map...

I had noticed the bank's sign across the street that said the time as 9:30 am and 91 degrees when I pulled in to the Santa Fe Market. By the time we left, it was now 10:20 and 98--had I been there that long? I had 15 miles to ride home and it was going to be hot as Hell.

Fortunately I got my tailwind, which pushed me up and out of Baldwin City, to the summit of Palmyra Hill. I shot down the hill at 45 mph (its like going down the back side of Gates Pass) and with the tailwind, I made some good time for a long stretch of about six miles at 20 mph past Vinland and on to Silbeyville.

On my way to "15 - 15" and still riding with a tailwind.

42 mile ride this morning.

"15 - 15" or riding back via rural East 1500 Rd (heading North on this road) seemed a bit faster than riding to Broken Arrow Park and dealing with no direct route back to the Little House. I was riding back into town and East 1500 Rd is then Haskell Road. Traffic wasn't too bad as everyone here just sleeps in and stays home when its 100 degrees with 90 percent humidity.

Well, I made it, Gentle Readers of This Blog--and it was a memorible ride for me! Thanks for reading my blog.

Cheers! Bruce

Summer Metric Century

2011-07-10T12:21:00.000-07:00

Riding into the Wilds.

I was one of many hundreds of participants in the Lawrence Bike Club's annual Lizard Under the Skillet Ride. I did the 62 mile metric century, and briefly considered doing the 40 mile option one more time to make things 100 miles--that would not happen, mes amis--it was certainly hot and humid. I drank tons of water, and still I dealt with leg cramps.

I arrived about 5:45 am at the start. People were just taking it easy getting ready--you could start anytime between 6 am and 8 am--and I started out just after 6. I happened to go out with the real fast riders from the Sun Flower Bike Shop (I think the Free State Racing Team) and boy did we go out fast, Gentle Readers of This Blog! For about seven miles I hung on with these guys--this was great because my plan was to ride with a group out against the headwind, and then rest and take it easy and enjoy the tailwind coming home.

On a big hill I got dropped. At the bottom of the hill, that pack made a sharp right--which I did not see them make as I came down. I kept going straight by mistake, thinking they had just got up and over the next big hill in front of me. I climbed and climbed and then shot down only to discover gravel. According to my cue sheet I was on the right road so I kept going, and soon realized that I had missed a turn although the map still said I was on course.

What happened is that I ended up being a mile North of the controle as I hit the paved hwy and saw others riders pulling in. I stopped, got water and some munchies--and then pulled out with a Father and Daughter team riding fixed wheel bikes. I rode with them through the headwinds taking my turn pulling for the next 15 or so miles. It was great! and Paul and Mary were strong riders! I was able to ride with them quiet well, and they wanted me to stay with them the entire trip.

I will say that it became very hot--into the 90s by 9 am--I drank as much water as I could and filled up on carbs and Gatorade at the next few SAG stops. It was wonderful riding in a group and has to be the fastest I've ridden on these country road ever. Riding and being able to stay in a pack to cover long distances in this Kansas headwind is the way to go, mes amis!

The last 10 or so miles back to the finish I rode on my own as Paul, a Lawrence HS Teacher for 35 years, and his daughter Mary, a graphic artist, cut off the course to ride back to their home. Paul had shown me where I made my error and he and Mary both told me the had stopped a few riders doing the same thing I did earlier that morning.

By now the wind had changed and I was out on my own with only a few riders way up ahead of me. I started having some pretty bad leg cramps flaring up and my hope was I'd get back okay. The wind was getting stronger and the I still had to climb a few miles until things leveled out. Finally I could see the campus of KU off in the distance so I just had to hang on and relax until the finish. I finished about 10:30 and by then it was 95 degrees with about 90 per cent humidity.

Got home and felt pretty good--did chores and ate a little lunch and tried to stay on my feet and moving to work out the leg cramps. I will have to get some Endurolites or something because if I go out on longer rides I'll need to stave off cramps!

I also have to tell you that the whole city was motionless as people just stayed indoors and nobody ventured outside because of the heat.

Cheers! Bruce

Cat 1 Racer

2011-07-08T19:28:00.001-07:00

Stanley has lived and worked at the LBS for many years.

Besides going out into the Wilds of Free Kansas for my riding adventures, Gentle Reader of This Blog, a good part of my time running around Interzone is spent on my old Desert San Campus Bike I had with me back in Tucson.

I bike to work, to the grocery store, to the liquor store--and today for a haircut and stop by the local bike shop. I spied Stanley relaxing in the sunshine of the front window and thought I'd stop in to see how he was doing. Stanley is a legend in Old Historic Downtown--I don't know that much about him (I'll try to find out from the lads) but he's back after a sort of medical leave.

Out to run errands--Fraser Hall looms as the regal tall-boy of KU.

Out for a haircut in Old Historic Downtown. The new paved road just off from the neighborhood of the Little House is fast and the bike lane wonderful. However, Old East Lawrence where I reside, despite the new road that runs through, mostly remains brick. Bricks look charming but if you've ever ridden a bike on them mes amis, well you can appreciate what they where talking about when they used the term "Bone Shaker"

Luckily I just have about two miles on the bricks--believe me, two miles is quite enough.

These 100 year old streets are for the most part in pretty good shape. They've poured asphalt over some of the streets but that eventually wears away--the bricks seem to be stubborn so the city probably just gave up and let the bricks have their say.

Some houses have aged well--especially if not owned by a slum lord.

Okay there's a bit of charm in all this but I would not want to be on a Historic Old East Lawrence Parade of Homes Bike Tour for long--you'd lose a few fillings by the time you were done.

Parking is often where ever you can find something to lock the bike to--

After my haircut I made my way to the bike shop just to see what was happening. Glad I did because it was late afternoon and pretty slow--everyone was watching the last 30 or so kilometers of the Tour de France on the big screen TV back by the tool room and repair floor.

Bikes!

Dan the owner of the shop told me about the upcoming century ride Lawrence Bike Club puts on--so I'm pretty sure I'm going do it! Start time is between 6 a.m. and when ever you get there. I'll show up and find a pack to ride with and cruise into the Wilds for the day. The cost is only $30 for the sag stops and all--not bad seeing as how El Tour de Tucson can cost you about $130--if you're like me and wait till the last minute to sign up...

Watching the Stage with the lads in the tool room.

Yellow Jersey.

The Local Bike Shop is well known by many pro riders. Greg LeMond is a friend of Dan's and stops in often. Here's a signed yellow jersey from Greg among other signed jerseys of cycling heroes and friends of the shop.

In the winter Stanley wears a yellow jersey/sweater to keep him snug and warm. This summer it appears he's sporting cooler attire.

Stanley is reportedly doing quite well for his age. When the shop is busy with lots of customers (the shop and store are very large) he can be hard to find--but he's around. Today he's just hanging out, and at first I spied him sunning himself in the window when I arrived. After a while, he came by to say hello--then made his way off to some favorite perch to sleep, or watch the comings and goings of the world inside and outside the shop.

In early Spring I was coming in the backdoor of the shop and Stanley followed me in through the door as well. The lads were a bit surprised as Stanley came strolling in with me. "Stanley? Where have you been, Old Man?" They said to him. I don't think it was that common that he ventured outside much anymore, but the back door is by the back alley so maybe he went out for a look. He pretty much does what he wants around the place.

My bike parked out by the street near the back door of the shop.

On the way home!

Old Man House not looking so good. My hope is that he will see better days again--someone will buy him and fix him up and windows will let in light--not rain and cold...

Bike Lane for my ride home.

Slowly the old streets and old man houses are being restored--it takes a bit of money--lots of work and courage! Slum lords still control large sections of Old East Lawrence, but when they give up and new people with new ideas come in and save the past while they build the future--well there is hope for all of us! 100 years ago people lived here and did well for themselves. So shall we, Gentle Readers of This Blog--so shall we...

Cheers! Bruce

Wind and Rain and Riding the Bike

2011-06-30T18:51:00.000-07:00

Here comes some Weather!

Kansas is hot and muggy--and there seems to be this engine that powers storms coming in from the South East, mes amis. This means riding out in the Wilds into a strong and fierce head wind. I got out early and the air was still, but as I started home, man could I ever feel and smell the change--and then see the air and sun and everything get ready for a big Summer Storm!

Pat, long-time Kansas Cyclist. We ride out to Lone Star Lake.

I've seen Pat out on the roads this summer, and by chance we were going the same way this time--so I joined in and we were both happy to ride together this hot muggy morning. Pat is training for a ride from Prague to Budapest in early September.

It was my good fortune to meet Pat, Gentle Readers of This Blog, as he answered all my questions about routes and roads and places to go--see I am slowly but surely extending my rides from 30 miles to 40 miles to 50 miles--and soon I hope to be back into Randonneur form by riding century rides on the weekends like the old days in Arizona.

I am planning a ride up to the Family Homestead of Highland, Kansas Territory when Summer starts to cool. That would be where Great Great Grandfather Joseph Chandler moved from Lebanon, Kentucky to Kansas Territory in the 1850's. My Great Grandfather, also named Bruce, was born in Highland in 1862--and we were born 100 years apart almost to the day.

This is from the top of the Clinton Lake Dam, looking East.

Pat took me on some hills he uses to train, and these are climbs up to the road that will take us up on the Clinton Lake Dam. Traffic is light and we make some good time on our way back to Interzone--and Pat gives me some good information about rides out to other parts of the county from where we are.

As it is now, I'm finding routes that will pretty much take me on a perimeter ride around Douglas County--with stops in pre-Civil War Free and Slave Kansas Territory. I'm excited about what I'll be able to accomplish, mes amis!

I find a new and fast way short-cut back into town via Hwy K-10.

Pat tells me I can get back to my neck of the woods by taking K-10 East and getting off at the Hwy 59 Exit (that you see up above in the photo) K-10 is sort of like riding on Oracle Rd back in Tucson. There's a good shoulder to ride on, but really it's no frills--just a fast short cut on a busy hwy--when you need to get back into Lawrence and ride across the county--this is the route to take in a pinch.

I did see another hardy rider going the other direction, and he seemed to of the disposition that things was okay riding on K-10. That bloke had an awesome tail wind I'm sure--I on the other hand had a hot brutal headwind. It was a tough one. I was sweating like a pig on a Kansas Territory Farm around supper-time!

On K-10... riding home to make a 45 mile trek through the Wilds.

Rain was in the air, mes amis--a body could smell it--and see it--coming like a herd of grey-blue buffalo over the Green Wilds!

Thunder and lighting on my heels, Gentle Reader of This Blog!

It's one thing to be chased down by a bunch of Type-A Triathletes from Lone Star Lake, but some serious kick-ass rain and wind about to stomp you is more serious. A few rain drop zing past and over my shoulder--but those only count if they hit me so goes my rule. I get back to the Little House and have a few minutes before the storm lets loose the down pour. While I wait and put away the bike--sweat pouring out of me as its so humid--a bright flash and loud sudden crack of thunder lets me know who's boss!

Cheers! Bruce

Into Wild Lands -- Into Wet Lands

2011-06-19T17:48:00.000-07:00

Fraser Hall on top of Mt Oread, KU Campus--about eight miles out.

I went for a fast morning ride. Thunder storms all night and into the very early morning almost shut down my plan. But the Sun came out and things began to dry quickly, Gentle Reader of This Blog--which meant I needed to get out, ride, and get home before the next thunder storm. Oh yeah--very humid too!

No head wind this morning--might mean the head wind will be on the way home.

So I felt strong and rode at a good clip. Everything is green, and seems that on the way out a bloke like me could even see the stuff grow! Birds were everywhere singing and fighting and getting all the insects, which were like clouds hanging by the swampy roadside...

The fields are green, damp, and the morning quickly drying out the crops in the sunshine.

Muddy and soggy out here in the Wilds!

The Farm at the base of Shank Hill--where the tamed fields meet the Wild Lands!

The Tree of Long Life--has seen many Summers I'm sure mes amis!

First cut of hay and rolled into the large bales.

If you blink, you will miss the village of Lone Star!

I'm just going to ride out quick to Lone Star Lake and back. The village or colony as the first immigrants called their spots on the map, had everything--a church, a school, places to live--and they farmed the muddy fields among the Wilds.

What was new is now old.

After a few years, the people prospered, and here's an example of a family that built themselves a fine house on the farm. The house now over 100 years old and still a stately place.

The Buzzards of the Lake shall know my fate should I never return from a Brevet into the Wild Lands...

Also known as Turkey Vultures, these guys relax on the lake's Dam. It's more like a levy really--built as a WPA Project back in the 1930's. They soar above the lake on these humid windy mornings and are indifferent, as usual, to a cyclist.

Almost missed the photo of the Church for you, mes amis! Built in 1918 by the villagers.

County Road.

Bon jour la bon jour, mes amis! or Hello there my friends!

On the way home and through the farmland of Kansas.

Fast but not too fast.

A hand full of triathletes arrived hot and sweaty at the lake as I was pulling out. They're a competitive bunch and I knew they would re-group and come chasing after me--which they did--but I think I put some distance between us as they faded back into the Wilds.

My route back took me into the Wet Lands, and here Gentle Reader of This Blog, it seems that if just enough rain, one of this days the road will be under the water. I like it here because the air is sweet and birds songs are on the wind!

Wet Lands.

Thanks for riding along and for visiting my blog!

Cheers! Bruce

River Ride -- River of Blood

2011-06-19T17:47:00.000-07:00

Taking a break in the shade of the Cottonwood Trees near the banks of the Kansas River.

Little Egypt and Son Rico have discovered biking along the WPA era levies here in Interzone. For exercise and something to do, I got them to ride through old historic downtown, cross the river, and then ride on the levy trail.

They had a great time as it was cool, flat, and beautiful to behold. On one side the endless forest of huge cottonwoods along the river bank--then the levy, which we rode on top of for six long uninterrupted miles--and then the miles of corn and wheat fields to the other side of the levy. We all enjoy this ride and have ridden it a few more times since I've posted this (late so sorry about that Gentle Readers of This Blog...)

Actually, the morning before this ride, I got up to go search for my Desert San Campus Bike. Rico had borrowed it--because he thought it looked cool and "Dutch"--and as I feared he returned home after playing at 3 a.m. the morning--and he did not bring my bike back.

So, as I'm an early riser--I went to his friend's and fellow band mate's house to fetch it with the car. It was not on the front porch. Shit--where is my bike! So I drove to his other friends house--it was not on their front porch either.

I drove down Mass Ave here in Interzone, past the bars--looking for my bike locked up against some light pole or parking meter by the clubs that he plays in--I couldn't find the bike. It had better not be lost. I knew down deep I should not have loaned it to him. He has his own bike.

I figured he must have it locked in a garage at a friend's, or inside a mate's house. He knows that I use the bike to commute to work, to go to the store--to go everywhere. He wouldn't carelessly let my bike get ripped off.

As I was driving through a side street, I noticed a roadie walking his bike up the street. He was limping--and then I saw blood dripping down his face and and chin and on his jersey. I stopped and asked him if was okay--holy shit--but he had taken a spill!

Could I help out? Give him a ride home? Take him to the hospital? He said he just lived up the street a few houses. He had started out for his morning ride and gone a few blocks. He ran over a stick or limb or something like that in the street and it locked up his front wheel. He said he went over the handle bars. Whoa... and had done a face-plant, mes amis. He assured me he was okay.

I drove on home and just waited around for the tribe at the Little House to get up out of bed. Later that morning Rico and I went over to his band mate's place and got the Campus Bike out from the front living room. Rico had gotten a ride home as it had been raining pretty hard, and was windy.

Later while we were riding along the levy, I told Rico and Little Egypt about the roadie that had crashed as he set out from his house--running over a branch that had fallen from the night's storm--and caused him to have a spill.

Cheers!

Bruce

Ghosts of Free Kansas

2011-06-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

Named after a judge Lecompte--who rallied residents for Kansas to be a Slave State.

Lecompton was a destination that we tried to reach a few weeks ago but we ran out of time--plus the wind was bearing down on us so we had to turn back. With better weather, and an early start, I set out for the old Kansas Territory Capital of "Slave Kansas."

Many people wanted Kansas to come into the Union as Slave --others wanted Kansas a Free State. When it looked like KS would be a Free State after all, folks picked up and moved to Topeka. Lecompton withered--but there still remains pre-Civil War divisions in the air even now.

Crossing the Kansas River at Lawrence--what's left of some old manufacturing plants from the the 1870's. The Great Flood of 1903 destroyed all that industry and it was never rebuilt.

On the bike you head out of Old Historic Downtown, cross the River, and soon ride into lines drawn between pre-Civil War ideologies. Lawrence and Lecompton were competing for what was hoped would be a lucrative steam boat spot on the Kansas River. When the river proved mostly un-reliable because of low water levels, both towns struggled. When the rail line finally reached Lawrence after the Civil War, fortunes changed for Lawrence.

Grain Elevator in Old North Lawrence across the river.

I'll be taking Hwy 24 North and then West to Lecompton--and then circle back on the Old Farmer's Turnpike to this Grain Elevator and rail hub. This is where the farmers have brought their corn and grain to ship to markets for over 150 years.

Fertile green fields of America's Heartland.

Old School House built in 1869 on Hwy 24 Heading West.

The Civil War between the North and South ended when the North destroyed the South militarily and culturally. Kansas was Free--to keep it free, education would be high on the list for the new residents to supplant any notion of a Slave State--school houses are everywhere out here.

Farm House from those days aging gracefully.

A tailwind helping me along at a good clip, mes amis!

With the wind in my favor, I cut through the cool morning air West on Hwy 24--the Hwy follows the base of the bluffs, and I pass emerald green landscapes--glowing with corn fields and thick green grass . I was making good time, Gentle Reader of This Blog, and stopped at the historical marker below, just before the small village of Perry.

Click on the photo to read the marker as it will be larger.

Perry High School, and those endless miles of cornfields I ride past!

I found an open restaurant in Perry! On a Sunday morning! But I did not stop in today--maybe next time.

In Perry, I stopped a local fellow out getting his morning paper and asked for some directions. He said I was on the right road--keep going, then over the Kaw, then "Lee Compton" as I hear people say the name. I think people believe the town was named after a guy named Lee.

Riding down this road that will take me into old Slave Kansas...

I'll cross the river into Lecompton here at the old ferry crossing. I get an eerie feeling because had I been riding out here in 1858, I may not have been welcome.

My great great grandfather was living in Highland, Kansas Territory--about 90 miles North-east on the Kansas-Missouri border (Near St. Joseph, MO.) and I don't know what their feelings were on the matter. I believe, deep down in my blood, that they were for Free Kansas.

Over the Kansas River.

Lecompton High School.

Lecompton was a nice place--but I didn't want to stick around and explore. Mainly because to ride into the older historic part of town, I'd have to climb some hills. Just was wanting to get back to Lawrence--I'll save that exploration for next time.

"You a Jayhawker, there Pilgrim?" Cattle eye me with suspicion, even now, after the War Between the States mes amis!

438 is what's known as the Farmer's Turnpike.

Heading East on the Farmer's Turnpike--an old historic route for taking crops to market and the rail hub back in Lawrence.

My tail wind didn't last--now a bit of a cross wind--still I rode well and enjoyed the fact that there was no traffic out here at all. I wondered what it would have been like on a horse, or pulling a team loaded with grain? It would have been about an 8 or 9 mile trip.

Interstate 70 runs along side the Farmers Turnpike for several miles.

Occasionally, I-70 would come into view. Cars streaming past endlessly it seemed. Driving to Kansas City from about where I am only takes about 30 minutes...

From another time--a school house built in 1869.

A Rural Volunteer Fire Station on the Farmer's Turnpike--if need be, they can get right on I-70 to help out in emergencies.

Tractor and Port-a-John.

I used the Port-a-Pottie--or Port-a-John as they're sometimes called, which was being guarded by this old tractor. I would say that it was almost an old rust-bucket--its main job mowing this field.

As not a lot of these old roads are used, sometime the maps lack a few details. I think this is about where I am.

I pass the power plant that allows me to have electricity to have this computer and write this blog, Gentler Readers.

The Farmer's Turnpike ends here at one of the grain stations--now quite modern.

Back in Lawrence.

The problem with this ride is that there's no fast way through the Northwest side of old Lawrence. I'm having to ride through the old streets that hug the Kansas River Banks--then I have to cross busy 6th Street, or ride on it about a mile. Traffic is heavy!

Downtown! The Ethridge Hotel built in 1858.

Thanks for coming along for the ride!

Cheers! Bruce

KS SUV

2011-06-09T12:50:00.001-07:00

Kansas SUV from about 150 years ago.

I made an early morning trip to Baldwin City, Kansas, due South of Interzone mes amis. This was the route my next door neighbor Dave had told me about, then the boys at work said they like to do sometimes--mainly because there's a challenging climb right up into Baldwin.

Neighbor Dave told me that the local riders call this route the Palmyra Climb, which is the old township name for that area of the county. It was a great climb indeed Gentler Readers of This Blog! Being a bit out of shape didn't help me but I made it with no trouble--just reminded me of my old after-work-slog up Swan Ave back in Tucson--or The Boss and I making that steady march up Craycroft to Ina Rd, and then on to Sin Vacas--after a morning climbing Catalina Hwy...

Bon jour!

Kansas is windy y'all. And muggy hot. I got The Mighty Trek and my stuff ready to go so first thing to do when I wake up is get my spandex-covered ass out the door. There's no traffic and the air is cool and still. Before you can say Bruce's Bike Blog, I'm well into the Wilds!

Muddy Water on the high road, and Muddy Waters (with U2) on the iPod.

Early on a weekday morning there's little traffic. Kansas People have not even got out of bed and started driving their Kansas Selves to work. I have the day off, c'est bon! Actually, the radio has been saying there's a Heat Advisory for today--which means it will be 100 degrees, humid, and then possibly thunderstorms later! Don't you just love Kansas?

Kansas is not as flat as you think. The Hills have a sister; The Wind...

I'm out on roads I've never ridden which is pretty exciting. I know I could get lost but who cares? Thing is out here in the Wilds is that there are steady climbs and a good amount of hill-work to keep you moving--and the wind owns this place, mon cher! Do not forget it and just be glad the head wind is only 15 mph and not 35.

The thin ribbon of road through The Green Fields and Battlements of Trees!

Old Grandpa House--and a good landmark to remember the course by.

Swimmin' Hole. I'll remember this spot for sure!

Learn to Fly, then go to Church!

The church and airport at the village of Vinland are important landmarks on the course--they are right where the lads at work said they'd be. From here it will be a straight shot to Baldwin City. Traffic will be a bit heavier, but I'm going South into town whereas Kansas People are heading the other direction for Lawrence, Topeka, and Kansas City.

Narrow road for the long steady ascent up Palmyra Hill.

The county road I'm on that will climb into Baldwin cuts a thin slice through very thick trees all around this township, and signs advise warning of low-visabilty. I take that to mean be careful and don't drive too fast--but the locals ignore that I'm sure. Lucky for me the traffic is light and mostly coming the other way. I also have my tiny Messenger Mirror that Le Tigre got for me--it works great out here and I can see cars coming up from behind. It gives me peace of mind as the wind out here on the roads roar in your ears--it is very hard to hear cars coming up from behind you, Gentler Readers of This Blog. It also makes me feel a bit more comfortable wearing earphones from my iPod. The music and earphones actually muffle the wind noise.

Now for a fast descent into town.

I was gonna be looking for the McD's that people told me would be a place I could stop and get water. I was really hoping that someone could recommend a good diner or breakfast place to stop into. Anyway, it was 8 o'clock and the McDonalds was one of those combination McD's and a Chevron or something like that. Should I stay or should I go? by the Clash was on my iPod--so I decided to go, mes amis. I had one full water bottle, didn't have to pee, and had seen an interesting place I passed coming just into town. I turned around, went a pace or so, and then turned into the driveway/entrance of some Bishop's House. I didn't quite make out the sign, but it said Bishop Somebody's Retirement House--maybe a historical landmark? Anyway, the gate was open and it felt welcoming.

The Mighty Trek at Bishop's Gate.

I enjoyed the pleasant surroundings and ate my Pop-Tarts and drank a bit of water. The air was cool and the trees swayed peacefully that surrounded the big place at the end of the drive--which didn't look like it got much use. I think the Old Place was happy to have a visitor. I left a few small pieces of Pop-Tart crust on the fence post for the birds--they had spied I had something and were clamoring above hoping to scavenge anything I might leave behind.

Kansas People in their cars were now streaming out of Baldwin City and I looked for a gap in the traffic so as to get back on the road. Pretty soon I was at the top of the Palmyra Hill and looking at a pretty fast descent! I let a few cars pass me at the top there, and seeing no one behind me in the mirror, I hammered down the hill! Maximum speed was 45 mph!

Coasting past farms in the Palmyra Township.

I had a very nice tailwind for my ride back, mes amis! I was flying home. Photos for you on the wing didn't turn out, and I didn't really want to slow down and take some shots on the account that my momentum was most excellent!

Click to make the picture larger, mes amis--KU Campus about 8 or 9 miles away as the crow flies.

Tail wind for the trip home.

Back to Interzone with a tail wind meant that my average speed was 17 mph for the 15 and a half miles back to The Little House from where I left Bishop's Gate. I cut through Haskell Campus and the old Rail Trail instead of riding the busy streets of Interzone. That's a nice cool down and a safe and direct route back home.

Thanks for coming along on my day off--even as I write this post this afternoon, I can see the strong gusts of wind blowing every tree in the tops through town.

Cheers! Bruce