Tales

This section reserved for Doug and Chad to rant about whatever they feel like, or just report on their most recent adventures (on and off-road).

It's been one rough assed winter so far. Just last week the high temps reached the mid 20's with the lows getting down to 15 below zero. Needless to say, the riding sucked. Ah but ride on we did. In the span of five minutes two detemined commuters came in for various parts. We discussed cold weather strategies and agreed that now we will see who the real riders are. I must admit , I almost broke twice when my fingers hurt so bad I cried.

This is a new year and I've decided to finally put away my "boy"s" bike and start riding a "man's" mountain bike. That's right, an Ellsworth Evolve 29'r will now carry me to the places I love to go. I can hear the collective cries now of the weekly wrecking crew "Why can't we keep up?". Be prepared to see a lot of my back side come spring. I may have to take the steed to Socorro this winter just to let it run. We're both tired of looking at each other while the snow accumulates outside.

The aforementioned situation is forcing me to pick up new habits. Such as, spinning a trainer twice a week while blaring techno music and watching old cycling videos. "La Course en Tete" is still my favorite. I work up quite a sweat and should a customer come in, I hope they keep the parka on as the vent is on high. Around here it's always skiing, snowboarding, skiing, snowboarding. Be forwarned lift assisters come spring and dry trail, I will show no mercy!

I'm getting old and cranky and by god motorists are really starting to piss me off. Is it the uneducated, the inability to operate, or just plain inconsiderate that are dominating the roads these days? Sometimes I wonder how these people get out of bed in the morning, with a crane I suppose. Don't get me wrong, Taos is still a great place to ride. One just has to pick the route and time wisely. When commuting, I often have to go to places of business. Thus, my route is predetermined and my time dictated by society, so you see my problem. I will take my lawful place along the right of way. The unenlightened will say "You're going to get yourself killed!". Where upon I say, "Only if you kill me!".

Thanks, Doug