Team Hot Dog

Pilgrimage to the Beer Silos

2012-01-30T12:59:00.007-05:00

The unofficial curtain on the 2012 mtn biking season lifted Jan 29 with tHD's annual trip to the beer silos. (Michigan Brewing Co.)

Sure, there was a small stop at the MSU Pavilion for the MMBA Expo and Annual Meeting. That thing went over like a fart in church. Shaun started his timer the second we waltzed in. It was great to see the usual accumulation of crappy bike parts, and the same congregation of dorks who post all over the MMBA forum. Tack on an additional 20 mins for some dude to decide if he wanted to buy Jrad's wheels, and we were back in the car headed for Webberville.

Once at the silos, we all ordered up a few of our favorite brews, ate some bar food, and started to do what we do best, talk shit while slightly intoxicated. Topics included: 2012 cycling goals, Barry-Roubaix, Jrad's new paint scheme, marriage and fatherhood, our trip to Northern Georgia, how to sneak an empty pint glass into a jacket without getting caught, and what broken blood vessels in one's face look like after yacking.

Finally, we drank all our beer and called it a day. Before taking off, it was time to assemble for our 2012 photo with the silos. I've included the last 3 photos to see how far we've come. We should all be very proud. I especially enjoyed the snow ball fight before getting back in the car. EPIC!

What's up next you ask? Well, Pactimo says our new kits will ship the week of 2/10! If everyone is down, I can once again open up my place for the release party. That's right! Coors Lights, 151 Rum, grilled hot dogs, spandex, and enough remote control copters to make one's head spin. Hope to see you all there.

In closing, I leave you with some art work I left on Coach's car as I left Shaun's house yesterday...

NOBS!

Happy Birthday, Hot Dog!

2012-01-26T16:22:00.002-05:00

You just never know what you're going to find when you type in "Happy Birthday Hot Dog" into Google Image Search...This pretty much sums it up, though! Happy Birthday, HD.

Newest Edition

2012-01-21T16:32:00.003-05:00

Hi... My name is Caden and I am the newest member of tHD. Here is a picture of me sporting some of my new gear thanks to Mr and Mrs Hot Dog!

My goals for the year are as follows.

-Eat
-Sleep
-Poop
-Maybe start walking at some point.
-Hopefully Mom and dad will get a trailer to pull me around in on bike rides!

Tree Farm Video #2

2012-01-19T19:51:00.001-05:00

Take it easy on me, this is my first attempt at this video stuff on the interwebs. Didn't really accomplish what I wanted to with this, but, I'll get there one day. Anyways, enjoy the slow pace I muster throughout this thing. I figured it would be a good contrast to Steve moving at warp speed in his:

Team Hot Dog Tree Farm Winter Ride from HotDogHimself on Vimeo.

Tree Farm Video #1

2012-01-15T22:05:00.002-05:00

There were three Helmet Cams out there today....This is what 30 minutes of editing while using Winblows Movie Maker can do for ya....I think #1 a rigid fork is a bad place to mount a cam and #2 the slower but larger MicroSD card I used struggled at times....going to make some changes for the next ride!

- "Coach"

Tree Farm Extravaganza

2012-01-15T17:36:00.013-05:00

It all happened on a Sunday, the 15th of January, 2012, to be precise, and Team Hot Dog was ready to conquer the cold. I rolled into the parking lot around 12:30. Hot Dog was there a minute later. After a handshake and a nice to see you, Jeff Cooper, Jeff Cooper, Jeff Cooper, came flying through the parking lot on his baby blue Bianchi, "The Cuss". Yep he's out of retirement and had been there since sunrise training for the Dirty Kanza 200. Soon after James, Steve, G-Mudd, and the man of the hour and new father, Jrad, rolled on in.

After we donned our base layers, toe warmers and shoe covers we hit the trail. I started off slow. That is purely from my perspective mind you. I was bringing up the rear and having trouble negotiating the tire ruts. Things were a little sketchy. That and my hands and feet lost their blood supply. It was a struggle, but eventually I caught up to the rest of the pack.

No sooner did I catch up, I began having equipment problems. No, not my legs. I'm refering to the combination of my face mask and my sun glasses. My face was a hot mess and my glasses were fogging up something fierce. I had to stop after nearly going ass-over-apple-cart into the creek while crossing a bridge and remove the mask. It's a good thing no ladies were present, they wouldn't have been able to contain themselves. Yep, I'm gorgeous.

Again I catch up to the pack. G-Mudd gives me a tip on how to resolve the foggy glasses issue. It involves dish soap. I'll definitly give it a whirl next time out. Thanks Gary! We venture forth and make our way to the crater. I'm feeling good at this point. Blood has returned to my hands and feet and it's game on! Well, before that game on, I decided to take some pictures of the rest of the crew taking return trips to the crater. Steve approved.

Now it's game on! Things were functioning fairly well. I'm warm, more confident in the snow, and handling the ruts fairly well. We continue our ride at a pretty decent pace for the 15th of January. Yep, Team Hot Dog is in full affect. Before you know it, we're at the pump track. There was a crowd gathered around watching us dominate. Actually, it was just one guy in a blue snow suit. But he was definitly a fan. Steve signed his water bottle and G-Mudd busted out some crazy hip hop dance moves.

After we said goodbye to our super fan, the last two miles of the ride were uneventful. Except for my epic crash...which John has on film...I might have said bad words...We all survived and made it back to the parking lot in one piece. After breaking down our cold gear and loading up our bikes we made our way to the Bayside Grill for some beer. Except for Cooper. He went out for another loop. He's unstopable!

Anyway, it was an awesome day and a great ride. For those that missed out. See you next time.

Kanza!

2012-01-14T08:38:00.003-05:00

Dirty Kanza 200

Presented by

Dirty Kanza Promotions

Emporia, KS

Saturday, June 02, 2012

Online Registration Closes
Sunday, May 13, 2012 at 11:59 PM ET

Dirty Kanza 200 Confirmed Participants

Veteran Men (40-49)

Jeffrey Cooper Team Hot Dog

More details to follow!

Happy Birthday, Landry!

2012-01-14T08:10:00.002-05:00

On behalf of the fine members of Team Hot Dog, I would like to wish Tom a Happy Birthday! Hope this special surprise was close enough to what you wished for when you blew out those candles! ;)

- tHD

Operator Error

2012-01-11T16:37:00.003-05:00

If you live in Michigan, it's January and 45 Degrees outside, you find a way to get on your bike! So David and I agreed to meet at Proud Lake for an easy bike ride. This nice 15 mile backroad ride was the perfect opportunity for me to try some new camera angles, test out the new helmet mount and see what this thing could really do.

So off we go and everything is progressing nicely. The mount is placed on the fork and it's recording...All of a sudden, this A-Hole in an Audi comes ripping around the corner and almost clocks us. I thought to myself "phew, well at least I got that on tape!"

We make our way to the Milford trails and decide to test out the Singletrack and see how muddy it is. I let David get in front of me for some video goodness, he finds the first mud-hole and goes down hard. He's ok, so then I think "Awesome, I got that on tape!" We continue down the paved trail, since the singletrack was sloppy and when we're getting closer to the famous Milford Burger Joint, I decide to do an on-the-bike interview with David and he throws out an Epic one-liner. Got that on tape as well!

We roll back towards Proud Lake and somehow manage to actually get STUCK IN A GRAVEYARD. We literally could not find out how to get out of this place and I am thinking to myself..."Yeah this is going to be EPIC film!"

As we get closer to the end of our ride, I decide to toss the camera on the helmet mount and fire it up...Some older Nobs in Kayaks are hitting on David and myself...Oh yeah, all caught on Camera!

...Or So I Thought :(

First 8 Minutes is about all I got. Somehow the battery must have died or something went terribly wrong. David, you are one lucky S.O.B. because that might have gone down as one of the funniest rides ever caught on camera!

- Coach

2012 tHD preview

2012-01-07T17:27:00.002-05:00

Found this on the interwebs..

Peepz Movie
by: gearswhatgears

YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!

2012-01-02T15:54:00.000-05:00

You have got to be kidding me!

Budget Build

2011-12-17T12:46:00.004-05:00

With the winter coming, I had to breathe some new life into my hardtail Stumpjumper. I sold it, bought a Niner EMD and a few extras...I thought that I would post up some photos of the new "Budget Build" for you guys to check out while you're spinning on your trainers and browsing the interwebs....

Tis the Season

2011-12-10T15:24:00.004-05:00

Not sure how your holiday seasons are turning out, but mine is kind of a bummer. I miss biking. All this gift shopping, dealing with crowded malls, obnoxious people, horrible holiday music, and fruit cake makes me want to trade places with the Santa we see below. He sure has the right idea.

Detroit Invitational Cyclocross

2011-11-26T19:13:00.014-05:00

(The above image -- which is frickin' awesome -- is by Ducky Detroit.)

Driving in this morning to the Detroit Invitational Cyclocross Race, I passed Chrysler's Mound Road Plant and had a sort of Pavlovian averse reaction. In college, I worked for a company that manufactured aluminum intake manifolds, and spent most of my work days at Chrysler's Trenton Engine Plant. But every once in awhile I'd get called in to this or that random plant at 2 a.m. to sort parts all night. Mound Road was one of them. I was happy to pass it en route to a bike race this morning, pretty much right across the street.

Dorias / Dorais Park is on the corner of Mound Rd. and Outer Drive on Detroit's east side. At the southeastern part of the park is an old concrete velodrome, recalling a time when track bicycle racing was the absolute biggest sport in America (pre-dating the 1969 Dorais Park track, of course, but go with me here). Track racing was once bigger than baseball. Bigger than boxing (which defined epic back in the day). The original Madison Square Garden, in fact, was initially built for bike races.

Today's festivities would be hosted by the RACING GREYHOUNDS. The 10 a.m. race was apparently the last race of their internal series for the year; the 11:30 invitational would prove to be a largely goofball throwdown between the rest of us.

A few warmup laps upon arrival revealed that on this course there could be nothing so petty as warming up. Steep hills; cambered hairpin corners; obscene, knee-deep mud you could only properly describe as "Belgian"; a set of obstacles that made you duck in the middle; a pile of snow; and a tour of the aforementioned velodrome. . . . This, boys and girls, was nothing short of an object lesson in suffering happily.

The RACING GREYHOUNDS did their final proper race of the year under 55 degree skies, strung out along the course at the end like so many hopes and dreams, the guys in front racing their hearts out, and the guys in back -- where I'd soon be in the next race -- just kind of enjoying a morning of hard riding with friends.

We queued up for the invitational race at the top of the hill, all jokes and the anticipation of pain. Flew down the hill together, maybe 40 of us, toward and around the velodrome. I'm feeling good, mid-pack where I seem happiest so far in my short career. Back up the hill to the "Tequila Shot Shortcut," which is the option of a tequila shot in lieu of a hundred-yard death march down and back up a soggy, slow-ass hill. I fly by (or maybe I crawled) as nearly everyone else lines up at the shortcut; I'm thinking "shit, maybe I shouldn't wait until my last lap or two to take a shot." Sure enough, "mid-pack" becomes "way-the-f@@k-at-the-back" as almost the whole, now-solidly-on-the-way-to-drunk peloton screams down the back into the mud while I, with a couple other suckers, struggle up the Sucker Hill.

The next two laps are this: I pass the same few people down by the velodrome over and over again as they pass me up on the hill with shots. Meanwhile, the real race is happening always somewhere else on the course where skinny tubular 'cross tires have been inflated to meet, in just such a way, today's race conditions. I have no idea where that is. I'm just happy to not have Jason McBride breathing down my neck (see my previous post, Stomach of Anger, Lansing), which is to say, I'm not quite ever near death today. But I'm still riding pretty hard. And every once in awhile, I even sight, like a yeti, that guy dressed as Bob Marley, drinking at least as much as he's riding, even as he hammers with distinction -- if not dignity -- through his second race of the morning.

The whole 45 minutes are a muddy, soaked blur of beer bacon donut dollar playing-card hand-ups (oh yeah, we're also playing poker), snowmound bunnyhops, obstacle walks-not-runs, and run-ins with the ghosts of the old velodrome. My claim to fame was making it up, three times, the steep-ass backside hill behind the tequila debauchery (which is also to say that I walked it four or five times. I lost track of the laps). By the end of the race, my bike was so bogged down in mud that it refused to shift properly. DNFs started littering the course en masse somewhere around the third lap.

I started taking tequila shots on lap four and realized, to my chagrin, that by "shots" they meant more like "half shots." Shit, man! By then it had become clear that if you want to be competitive in the RACING GREYHOUNDS Detroit Invitational, you have to basically throw back some sauce on every lap (and if you're toward the back on the last lap, also apparently just kind of use the course as a guideline at that point). I'll definitely be back next year with more proper race tactics (which isn't to outright admit that I might also carry my own playing cards).

Afterward, a bunch of people from the race headed over to Kuhnhenn Brewery, some just to scream at the U of M / Ohio State football game. Awesome beer, good pizza, and for me, time spent as well with a couple of my best friends.

All in all, a great party of a race. A wonderful event put on by a pretty crazy group of local bike racers. And to that sadistic CX Czar, Jeff: that course took a few years off of untold lives today. Not cool, dude. You and I are emphatically not cool. (PS I'll see you there next year! & in all seriousness, thanks for an epic day. It was basically a perfect distillation of every reason to ride bikes in the first place.)

Chains!

2011-11-26T19:11:00.011-05:00

So as some of you know all to well I have a small compulsion with disposal and use of old chains. Since my retirement from competitive cycling it has given me time to think and contemplate things. I can now admit that I might have a slight problem. I might need help, maybe seek some consoluing, or find some new chain source (something for $4.99 or less). I think I just have issues with throwing things away. I don't think that it is an extreme case of hording but none the less I just can't part with all of my chains.

Here are some chains, who knows how long I have had them. I do believe that they are still useable and have many rides left in them. I used to use a zip lock bag system. Each chain had the gear ratio they worked with labeled on them. They weren't easy to store and things got kind of screwed up when I didn't update the bag. Multiple chains got placed in one bag, things were dirty, I just didn't like the system. Lately I have gone to storing them in old chain boxes. If wrapped real neatly you can stack them nicely. The system keeps the dirt and grime to a minimum and I have been somewhat good with updating the boxes.

These two chains are much older. I hadn't developed my elaborate chain storage system yet. But yet again they can be mounted on a bike and one day be ridden and fixed by Jared.

I also like to make chains out of chains. Below are some chain pieces that are just waiting to be added into an existing chain to become a new chain, a longer chain, a better chain. As Jared called it last week a Franken Chain. Unlike the monster this chain is nothing to be feared. If put together correctly there are many more miles that could be had. Since each chain has its own stretch it allows me to scientifically create chains to match the gearing I wish to run.

My most favorite tool in my toolbox. Yes, the elusive chain tool. This particular one is a Park CT-5. I have often thought about upgrading to a plier type chain tool such as the Park CT-2 but, hey the CT-5 works just fine for me.

Below is some of my handy work. Notice the two different chain colors. Yes this is a chain that has been spliced together. It has over 200 miles on it since its creation and no failures. I did have to shorten it due to some stretching after the first couple of rides. I have recently gone back to using the SRAM quick link system. This aides in the quickness of lengthenig and shortening of chains. It also puts less wear and tear on the pins from forceable removal with my CT-5.

Below are some chain pieces that some day I hope to put back together and make good links from so that they can be inserted and used as new pieces in new chains.

So in my retirement I started to wonder where this compulsion of cobbeling chains together come from. I was rather confused of where I learned this behavior until recently. I was at my parents house over the Thanksgiving weekend. While there they asked me to help put up the Christmas tree and the lights on the outside. All was going well until I was required to go and get the extension cord box. What I found next explained it all.

Below you see the plug end of a cord that was obviously made back in the 1920s

With a little bit of electrical tape and a newer brown extension cord.

You create a longer, better extension cord. Obviously the brown cord was not long enough to do the initial job so therefore the plug end needed to be surgically removed and added onto the 1920s cord to create one much longer UL approved extension cord.

Below we see an extension cord that obviously did not allow enough electrical items to be plugged into it. So, surgically remove the old end and add a newer better white end. What do you end up with? An extension cord that is much, much better than what you started with.

Like my chains, below you see cords that are hanging around just waiting to be made into new much better cords. If you look real hard you will notice that my father just dosen't mess around with 110 cords but he also delves into the world of 220 cords.

Below is a box of cords, plugs, and ends that are just waiting to be used or inherited by me.

I hope this view into the psyche of the Cooper mind will help you understand my compulsion with chains. If any of you would like to donate either old chains or boxes to my cause it would be greatly appreciated.

2012 Team Kits

2011-11-22T20:03:00.011-05:00

Hello Hot Doggers.

The 2011 riding season is coming to a close. Visions of 2012 and that first sunny 70 degree day with dry singletrack are already dancing in our heads. It could be a long winter. So right the ship boys! There has been a lot of action on our FB page, and in keeping with that momentum, I release to you, our 2012 thd kit.

We will be going with Pactimo again for jerseys. We’re adding bib shorts, a wind jacket, and a cycling cap. We also have designs for a t-shirt, as well as an anodized and laser etched top cap that you can choose from multiple colors to match your trusty steed. For any of the cycling apparel items, we must hit a minimum of at least 5 items, or we can’t place the custom order for that piece. A price list of items can be found by clicking on their web site or by scrolling down. More details about each item can be found below.

** If you have any comments or suggestions on changing something you see, let me know, but please remember, I’ve tried to incorporate everyone’s feedback into all of this. It is impossible to please everyone, and this was the best I felt we could do, without losing any of the thd flair. Thank you all for your comments.

Without further adieu, here we go:

Short Sleeve Jersey - $63

Keeping with the same colors, and almost the same style. Subtle changes include smaller hot dogs on the front and back, some red piping, a wiener holding a beer and a hot dog on the back, and a new thd logo on the rear pocket. James, I inverted the colors for you, but it totally didn’t work or look as good as I wanted. I think this is our best look.

Long Sleeve Wind Jacket – Either $79 or $89

(depending on which jacket we go with) Pretty much the same as the jersey, with red and yellow all the way down the arms. Looks dope. Should protect us from the wind at Barry-Roubaix, Iceman, and outdoor drinking marathons.

Bib Shorts - $64

Totally new for 2012 and so much better than what we came up with in 2010. Same colors, in a more aggressive design with red piping and a wiener dude rocking his beer and hot dog snack. My personal favorite, is the phrase “ride bikes. drink beer” on the ass. Sorry James, we took it off the jersey, but too many peeps wanted it on the ass of shorts. I love it!

Cycling Cap - $14

Never had one of these guys before. I kept it simple, made sure it matched, and wasn’t overwhelming. Highlights include “Team hot dog” on both sides of the bill, a nice red with small yellow framing pinstripes over the top, and again “ride bikes. drink beer” on the back of the cap. Should look cool under our helmets.

T-Shirt – Around $8-$12 (depending on order amount and color selection)

Going black this time around…. With almost the same logo as the old shirts. Slightly different. Same fun. Rock it at your favorite cycling event. Just be warned, flocks of hot chicks may be coming your way! Nobs. If you guys want a color other than black, let me know. Will be ordering from All American Screen Printing once again. They did a fantastic job last year and were easy to work with.

Top Cap - $16

All new. We’ve never done this, and coach came up with the idea. This is our first stab at the design. “Team hot dog” at the top, with a wiener at the bottom. You can choose from a slew of colors, including: red, orange, blue, green, purple, aqua, gold, and metallic. We'll be ordering these from KustomCaps.

NEXT STEPS:

Please comment below on what you think, and what you plan on ordering. I’d like to get a count of how much and what. Whatever you tell me is what I will expect you are going with, so don’t put something down without standing behind it.

Fitting Party

I will then work with Pactimo on getting samples of everything in all sizes. Coach has been gracious enough to offer up his crib for everyone to come over and try the samples on and be comfortable with sizing. I assume Marco’s pizza, beer, and some shenanigans will be involved. Look for an invite soon.

Final Order Placement / Payment

Once we’re sized up, I’ll order everything. Pactimo actually emailed me today, asking if we were ordering anything for 2012... that being said, I may start working with their artist and getting sample sizes NEXT WEEK! Takes 5-6 weeks for almost everything to get in our possession. I’m hoping I can collect most of the money when placing the final order, cause they expect almost all of it paid up front. And it’s a going to be a hefty amount going on poor ol hd’s credit card. If we move, we could have everything in our possession before February even rolls around.

Right the Ship!

That’s right. Get the Doritos out of your mouth fatty. Barry-Roubaix is only 17.5 weeks away!

That’s it. Happy Thanksgiving. GO LIONS!

(can you figure out who finishes the tune at the end of this video?)

Bloomer Park CX Video

2011-11-20T20:53:00.004-05:00

Slowly but surely, I am getting the hang of this camera editing software...Anybody know how to get royalty-free music so the RIAA doesn't come after me? Anyways, enjoy the video...play some of your own music alongside it!

Bloomer CX Race from Abbeytrails on Vimeo.

And some awesome Garmin Data for you all to enjoy!

- "Coach"

Random shots of historical weiners

2011-11-20T18:44:00.008-05:00

Just a few pics I had on my phone and camera from Bloomer and Stony... Ill deal with the videos later...

Steve putting the hammer down...

JRAD climbing..

Steve hanging out on the beach...

I think the Rhino dude was trying to lick Santa pants in this one...

SANTA PANTS!!!!!

Steve with the quickeness..

The wiz. Nuff said.

Stomach of Anger, Lansing

2011-11-19T20:54:00.020-05:00

My second Stomach of Anger event in only three races of my illustrious new career, and so far I prefer SofA courses, but Tailwind organization and enthusiasm, which is to say "noise." So a perfect day would be a fast course and lots of cowbells.

Anyhow, I had a frickin' awesome time today. Also painful. I'm still getting used to how painful these things are.

Met up with Gary Mudd, he of the C-class holeshot, and for the first time in my storied race career, I tried to get a proper warm-up in, having scoured the internets all week and cobbled together something that sounded good for just such a purpose, including "tempo" efforts with "stupid" and "death" surges. Three laps of course reconnaissance with Gary revealed a fast course, mostly hardpack with some muddy sections; twisty but nary a hill in sight. I dug it (see what I did there?).

Then I warmed up a bit more on the trainer during the first half of Gary's race, where he stole the holeshot with malice from those around him and proceeded to drag his field kicking and screaming through the first lap of his race.

When my race was up, I got close to the start line, but not right up front. Went hard into the first turn, but didn't kill myself getting there, ending up fifth, I think, out of maybe twelve. Maybe a third of the way through the first lap I passed a guy who seems to have blown himself up properly on the first sprint of the race, and then I think it was on the second lap, first turn, that this guy Jason McBride passed me with style on the inside of a hairpin little hill.

The whole rest of the race for me was basically a fight with Jason -- I passed him a lap later, and then I'd look back, having gapped him, only to see him right on my wheel later on. Rinse. Repeat. (Note to self: your dismounts suck. And you can't run. And you kinda can't ride too well half the time either.)

On lap three, I almost went down on this cambered, muddy turn, taking the inside really fast at a weird angle, but managed to slap a foot down and keep charging into more death and suffering. The last two laps were an anaerobic, crazy blur with Jason McBride breathing down my neck and this little blue alien "Sam" (who may or may not have been real) egging me on, all my concentration wavering between trying to put time into that crazy, persistent bastard (Jason, not the alien), and trying to just ride my own hard ride -- interestingly, the near-fall paid dividends in focus on laps four and five. Anyhow, it literally came down to the final straight: going through the last corner, I had a tiny bit of distance on Jason before the final straight, and halfway through it, my dumb ass looks back to see Jason overtaking me. I'm not sure if losing at the line was more the result of being straight cooked, or else being too concerned with the other guy: both were true (and, by the way, that guy earned it). But I literally stood up to sprint and the only thing that happened was great sadness and heartache.

I haven't seen the results yet, officially, but I heard I got fifth of maybe twelve, which I'm happy with (EXCEPT whenever I think of the fact that the first four places got SWAG from the event! I hoping it wasn't cool SWAG.) & by the way, the first three guys were. . . I almost said sandbaggers. What I meant was, those guys were fast!

Awesome day suffering. And beer. Thanks Michigan Brewery!

Good luck tomorrow at Bloomer, fellas.

I have no idea how to post videos or photos on a blog, but if doesn't show up here, you can check out Hot Dog's FB page for an exclusive (more or less) video by Gary Mudd of the day's festivities. You can even see me losing the fourth spot at the end:

Twas the Night Before Bloomer...

2011-11-19T18:01:00.005-05:00

Twas the night before Bloomer and what do we have here?
Some Mexican Food from El Patio and A 4-Pack of Dogfish Head IPA Beer.
The spandex was packed in the bike bag with care,
In hopes that the end of the Cyclocross Season would soon be here.

Team Hot Dog was nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of dismounting with the quickness danced in their heads;
And JRAD in his santa pants, and I with my cycling cap,
Can't wait for tomorrow morning, to feel like absolute CRAP.

Sleep tight, Hot Doggers! Winter's comin'

- Coach

Stony Creek Cyclocross

2011-11-13T18:35:00.011-05:00

Matthew Stafford and the Lions are getting their tail feathers kicked right now, so I figured I would practice my blogging skills. Based on the last few hd blog posts, one would think we just sit around, watch people ride bikes, and drink beer. Not so fast. Some of us ride too, even after Iceman weekend is over. I'm just not one of them.

Sunday morning I decided to take the pup out for a morning hike on the single-track, then head over to the beach for some wiener action, cyclocross style. I'm glad I came out, Santa even took a break from his busy toy building schedule to demonstrate how he's still a whiz on the barriers (see video below).

Santa & Coach warming up

Steve looking like Fabio on the beach

Santa just doesn't visit the beach during his off-season

Brimming w/ joy

Pup looking on

Was nothing but dog on dog action at the end

Start of the B class. Shaun and his hangover are only 3 spots out of the lead here

I got a good whiff of Patron as Shaun flew by here

Shaun and his "I want my mommy" face

And last but not least, the mad cyclocross wiz is back, to demonstrate that fatherhood can't cause one to lose these sick sick skills:

I'm New and I'm Learning...

2011-11-11T23:23:00.005-05:00

As if I didn't have enough crap dangling from my bike, I went and picked up a ContourHD Camera. To make things interesting, I decided to head out to the Tree Farm a few days after some rain, snow and wind. With a ton of trees down, slippery leaves and some strategical placed puddles, it made for a fun time. Anyways, this was what I captured from the ride...enjoy!

p.s. Sorry to bump your post down, HD!

Photoshop Fun

2011-11-11T22:06:00.002-05:00

So I've been playing around alot with Photoshop lately, cause I've been hard at work coming up with our awesome 2012 kits. I decided to take a break, and create a little souvenir for myself from last weekend's Iceman. Iceman will always be my favorite race, and the reason I still bike/race. I think I will blow this up and maybe get it framed or something, but figured I'd share with all of hd nation.

Iceman - Behind the Scenes

2011-11-11T11:39:00.006-05:00

Even though the Iceman Cometh is "Doneth", there's always a little bit of excitement once you get home and plug in the Digital Camera...Always some Blog-Worthy shots. Anyhow, I hope you enjoy these as much as I do!

I'm not sure what John is hiding underneath that tree branch, but Tom and Shaun appear to be less than impressed!

This photo must have been taken right after Shaun realized he didn't beat the 2:00:00 time, even though his garmin said he did!

This is going to be my new background on my computer. Who could resist a smile like that? Bonus points for represent'n the Michigan Brewing Company with that Fleece!

If you were wondering why Shaun wore his helmet in the car all the way up to Traverse City, he learned it from his father. Hot Dog is enjoying some Raging Bitch!
- Wheeeeeeee

Iceman Doneth

2011-11-05T18:29:00.001-04:00

Race is over. We all made it. Course was best I've ever seen. Here are a few images of the fantastic day that was:

Big Day Tomorrow

2011-11-04T21:10:00.001-04:00

Just sitting around, filling the RV with rancid smells. The aftermath of BBQ and 32oz IPAs served in mugs made like a boot. Tomorrow should be, well, awesome. Here's to a good nights rest and a kickass Iceman Saturday!

THD has landed

2011-11-04T14:45:00.001-04:00

Picked up our packets at the Expo, bought some stuff, and have now set up at the RV at Timber Ridge. Waiting to head out for dinner at the Blue Tractor. Gorgeous weather today. Beautiful! ICEMAN!!

Iceman Weekend Begins

2011-11-04T11:33:00.001-04:00

In the car on the way up. 3 bikes, 1 dog, 1 Shaun and a cooler full of beer! Almost to Grayling. We'll be hitting the Iceman Expo in a few. Check back on hd blog for additional hd posts from Iceman weekend. Kisses.

Sad Day For Cycling

2011-11-01T19:04:00.006-04:00

Hot off the presses from Cyclingnews.com

JEFF COOPER ANNOUNCES HIS RETIREMENT FROM PROFESSIONAL CYCLING

The Jeff Cooper cycling camp released the following statement:

After long deliberation I sadly announce my retirement from the competitive ranks of cycling. After my fine performance at last Saturday's Vet's park race which was then followed by many Jolly Pumpkins I realized that it is much better to go out on top. There was no single event that had lead to this decision. Well maybe just one, that last Jolly Pumpkin. I woke up Sunday morning with the race bike lubed and ready to go. At that point I realized that my heart just was not into the ranks of competitive cycling.

I look at races like Iceman and just realized that I would rather sit on my couch and get fat drinking Fat Tires.

We at Cyclingnews.com are deeply sadden by this decision and know that the world of cycling is reeling. In releated statements concerning this decision Sven Nys said the following:

Mr Cooper was a fierce competetor. I never had the chance to race against him (since I would only be racing As) but if we had I know that we would have done battle.

In related statements from Frank and Andy Schlek said: Jeff Cooper was one tough racer. He will certaintly be missed in the back "C" class peleton. I am sure that Carbon Zipps is releaved by this news.

We all here at Cyclingnews.com wish Jeff the best in his retirement. We all know that Team Hot Dog will be shocked and amazed by the events that have occurred today.

Vet's Park CX Day 1 & 2

2011-10-30T19:40:00.006-04:00

Never before had the words "FREE BEER" been so important in my development as a Cyclocross Racer. In my quest for mid-pack C Class domination, I have somewhat lost that lovin' feeling for Cyclocross racing. I really could have stayed home, slept in, had a big breakfast and enjoyed a nice weekend. Perhaps I'm "brunt out?" But, with Iceman just one week away, I had to make sure my legs and my liver were in proper shape.

Anyhow, Day #1 was awful. I just plan didn't want to be on the bike. I managed to avoid the dreaded DFL, but not by much. We had some free beer and burgers, which were about the only bright side to the whole experience. Had my Halloween party, got home around 11ish at night and planned to head back for redemption the next morning.

Day #1 Results - Click Here!

Day #2 was mostly the same course setup but in reverse. Toss in a little rain from the night before, a heavy frost on the ground, pudding-like climbs and a slight hangover. I felt much better throught the 4 laps both mentally and physically and eeeked out a 13th place finish. Good enough to consider the ship righted for Iceman!

Day #2 Results - Click Here!

So anyhow, that's my story and I hope you enjoyed it. I went through a lot of pain to bring this tale of awesomeness...Bring on the Cheeky Shenanigans for Iceman!

- "Coach"

Mad Anthony CX

2011-10-28T19:59:00.008-04:00

I tried posting these pics the other day, and blogspot was having issues. So, before another smackdown at a cross race takes place tomorrow, I figured I'd post them up. Awesome awesome venue @ Mad Anthony CX. I can't tell you how much fun I had in my first cross race. Thanks to all you wieners who pushed me to do it. See you fockers at Iceman!! (Good luck to those of you racing in Ann Arbor tomorrow. Coach, hope the arm is getting better)

Linden CX Video Repost

2011-10-23T18:49:00.001-04:00

Just sharing a video, with some tHD cameos in it...

2011 LINDEN PARK CYCLOCROSS - SHORT from Hans Nyberg on Vimeo.

Night Time Riding @ PLRA

2011-10-17T21:18:00.005-04:00

Just got back from a double at Pontiac Lake with Coach and Shaun tonight. Did one loop with Coach while the sun was still out, then we went back out there with Shaun and our lights. Got to ride the last half of the loop in complete darkness, but of course, with our bike lights. Awesome night!! In the first few pics, it was dark out, but my phone automatically used its flash so it looks lighter than it was. I'm still adjusting to the new iPhone...

I C E M A N !!

Linden Cyclocross Debachle

2011-10-16T16:50:00.008-04:00

The awful smell coming from the outhouse that covered over half of the race course should have been a sign of bad things to come for me today at the Tailwind Cyclocross race in Linden. But after a couple of warm-up laps, I stripped a few layers off and foolishly lined up at the starting line. Looking around, I counted only 5 other guys in the 39 and under C-Class and thought to myself "I can't do much worse than 6Th!"

Myroo's Nemesis

So the bell went off and I immediately found myself in 6Th place. I swapped places with some kid on a mountain bike who couldn`t stay upright to save his life for a lap or two and then he dropped me like a bad habit. As I maneuvered the root-covered course, I began experiencing ghost-shifting in my middle gears. On top of that, my left cleat was loose and I was popping out of my pedal every few minutes. As crappy of a job as I was doing, I somehow managed to keep pedaling.

My Garmin Data, for you to laugh at...

The Cyclo-Wiz, sporting his Santa Pants, rocketed by me on his Single Speed sleigh and I did my best to hang on his wheel for the last two laps. After that attempt failed, I really had nothing left to do but be lapped by the leader. In a last ditch effort, I somehow managed to avoid being lapped, stayed on the lead lap and get to the finish line exactly where I thought I would...6Th!

Shaun Rockin' The B Class

After the race, we hopped in the CR-V and pointed her to the nearest Buffalo Wild Wings, where we all pretty much drownded our sorrows in Beer and Wings (Jalapeno Flavor is HOT!). In hopes of some good Karma for Mad Anthony next weekend, we donated a few bucks to help fight childhood cancer in the name of Hot Dog.

6/12 Hours of Addison Oaks

2011-10-13T20:36:00.009-04:00

Well, the race was last week. I came out to cheer on Myroo, Coach, Shaun, and Mango. I went off and did a loop at Bald Mtn. myself, then once the race cleared out some, did a lap each with Myroo and Coach. Here are some images from the day. Was a gorgeous day out in the woods!

Munson CX Night Race

2011-10-09T18:04:00.003-04:00

2011 MUNSON PARK NIGHT CYCLOCROSS RACE from Hans Nyberg on Vimeo.

...A Little tHD camera time towards the end and a shot of Shaun remounting with the quickness!

Tour de Troit 2011 Recap

2011-09-24T18:11:00.016-04:00

Well. You guys missed out on one excellent Saturday morning in the D! Highlights of the Tour de Troit included awesome weather, a different route, lots of people watching, hammering it on Belle Isle, running into Bratney and his wife at the rest stop, riding three hot doggers abreast behind the lead vehicle's bumper while their photo and video guys snapped countless photos of us, and stopping in for lunch at Slow's BBQ after our ride. (Their mac n cheese was insane!!)

Larry, Tim, and I had a really good time. Thanks for coming out fellas. Enjoy a few of the pics below:

Proof I showed up and did this thing

Tim in an all too familiar pose

Getting our roll on

Sweet ape hangers

Larry calling his congressman

LOL!

Ridiculous lunch! My Centennial IPA was reloaded right after snapping this pic. That mac n cheese though, dear God!!

Double Your Pleasure, Double Your Cross

2011-09-20T19:49:00.005-04:00

In case you haven't already noticed, there's a change in the air. It's starting to get colder, the leaves are changing color, Cider Mills are firing up their sweat Donut-Making Machines of Destruction and Cyclocross season has begun!

Tailwind Cyclocross Training Race from Hans Nyberg on Vimeo.

For Team Hot Dog, there's no better time to be alive. It all started with the Tailwind Cyclocross Clinic two weekends ago which was attended by JRAD, Shaun and Myself. We honed our dismount, remount, pedaling, stopping, turning and Orange Crush Bunny-Hopping skills and ended the day with a mock-race. I did not win :( We celebrated our defeat with a nice Pizza Pie and Frankenmuth Oktoberfest from Mr. B's.

Last weekend was the beginning of the 2011 Tailwind Cyclocross Series and a Double-Header of Cyclocross Madness. Saturday's race started out a little cold and overcast. In the C class 39 and under Men's was about 25 guys. In the Old Guys class, JRAD and Myroo were eagerly chomping at the bit to get a piece of me. I'd gladly give you a race recap but when the bell went off, I don't remember much more than pedaling, pain and more pain. Thankfully we have photos! I came in 19th Place....a solid back of the pack finish like I expected. Not too shabby for a chubby guy! Jrad crushed the Old Guys Class in 17th place followed by Cooper in 19th. Shaun is fast and did well, so poop on him for being a chicken weigher. We drowned our sorrows again at Mr. B's with Burgers and more Frankenmuth Octoberfest.

Waterford Double Cross Day 1 Results

Here is a photo of the 40+ C Class. Look at how old they all look!

Day two seemed to bring out half as many racers as the first day thankfully. Since I felt like I had been run over by a gigantic flying boat from Saturday`s race, I was looking forward to another 30 minutes of torture. The bell rang and I pedaled and felt the pain. JRAD brought the pain and passed me up on the last lap. I tried to chase him down, but the Cyclo-Wiz was just too much for me. I found myself in 9th place in the 39-Under, JRAD scored 15th and Cooper rocked 18th place in the old-farts category. Shaun did really well but, again, chicken weigher. We drowned our sorrows and celebrated the fact that we did not have to race again for two more weeks at Buffalo Wild Wings.

Waterford Double Cross Day 2 Results

Cool down lap, tHD Style!

I do want to give MAD-PROPS to the following tHD fans who came out to support us this weekend: My Lovely Wife, My Mom, My Mom In Law, JulieRAD, JRAD's Mom and Dad, Mango and Shaun the chicken-weigher. Having that many fans show up was awesome and we are very thankful that you waited until we were finished racing to ask for Autographs!

- Steve

P.S. If you've never done one of these races before, I highly suggest you suck it up, come on out and have some fun.

Shenandoah 100?

2011-09-11T19:20:00.011-04:00

What to say? My year of finishing a couple of the NUE races didn't really work out the way I wanted it to. What I ended up with is the year of the NUE 30 milers. Lumberjack 100 I managed to squeak out a mere 33 miles in 4 hours of riding while totally feeling like death warmed over. Well I managed to practically do the same at Shenandoah. I made 31 miles in just a bit under 5 hours. Below is the details of my demise.

The weekend starts out on Thursday for the wife and myself. We drive down to Virgina and set up camp on a portion of the race course called Braley's Pond. This is a nice quiet place to camp. Below is the THD Subaru ready to head off to Stokesville.

Friday we drove the half hour over to the Stokesville campground and set up. We spent the early part of Friday in Harrisionburgh. We picked up some water at the Walmart and headed back for a nice day of lounging around the camp. Saturday morning we woke up and went out for a nice 20 mile spin of the Virgina back roads. I felt well on this ride. Managed to pick a couple of long climbs in the route and became very comfortable with my gear selection.

From this point it was all down hill. See we had these neighbors that had 3 dogs and a gaggle of kids. The dogs liked to bark and the kids liked to yell. Kind of hard to chill out on the day before you are going to attempt a hundred. So darkness fell and we went into our tent. I managed to fall asleep around 10:00 pm only to be woken by the barking dogs at 1:00 am from this point on I never fell back asleep.

5:00 am came early but the race bike was ready to go. But was I?

I made some coffee took care of other business before making my way to the start under the cover of darkness.

The start was slow and painful they made every rider go under the start gate. The gate itself only accomidated about 5 riders at a time.

From there came the 2 mile roll out to the first climb. I stayed to my plan and kept a nice 90ish RPM cadence. This put me right around 11 mph in my 32 X 20 gearing. As all the gearies flew by me I knew that I would soon be passing them on the first hill. Shortly after this point the road started to kick up to the first climb. Which would take us up 978 ft in 9 miles. I felt good, I felt really good. I made it all the way up this climb and I felt strong. Down the hill and off the next climb. The second climb of the race is a whole lot oof hike a bike. This one takes us up 1500 ft in 5 miles. On the way up I started to notice a few things. First off I was sweating like Jared in a spin class. My jersey was completely drenched and I felt somewhat clamy. I just pushed on and ignored this. I rode across the ridge to the downhill. This is where the next issue came along. I developed a headache, not just any headache, but a monster sized headache that pounded even harder with every bump I hit. Then came the leg cramps. My legs siezed as I was going down the hill. I was hoping that on the road section my body would begin to cooperate but it just wasn't my day. So I packed it in at aide station 2.

Here is a piece of fungi for all of you.

I also came home with some little presents to be shared with THD to celebrate an unsuccessful 2012.

$8 Grunge Brush

2011-09-03T21:18:00.001-04:00

Peepz Movie
by: gearswhatgears

Why Did the Hippie Fall Off the Swing?

2011-08-31T21:07:00.000-04:00

I pushed him!

Happy Birthday, Myroo!

2011-08-31T10:32:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday, Cooper! Here is a special birthday joke just for you...

Also, I thought that you might like this more...

- tHD

The 1,000,000 Question

2011-08-29T19:07:00.002-04:00

...But what about Hot Dog?
by: abbeytrails

Orange Crush!

2011-08-23T21:53:00.008-04:00

BUST OUT YOUR SKIN SUITS, HOT DOGGERS - For those of us who are relatively new to Cyclocross or want to learn how to dominate last place in the "C" Class, this might be a great introduction. I'm planning on attending and I think you (yes, you!) should too...

It will be an excellent opportunity to learn how to work on your road starts and Dismount With the Quickness. The flyer even says we can practice making total asses of ourselves on the Orange Crush if we want to. Plan on continuing our training at Buffalo Wild Wings afterwards while we watch Oprah reruns on the big-screen with ice cold Octoberfests in our hands!

This should get you good and ready to rock the Tailwind Series and Mad Anthony races like a true Cyclocross Racer....I'm talking about the beer drinking, not the actual Clinic!

- "Coach"

Niner Poto Shakedown Ride: To Hell and Back

2011-08-20T20:45:00.006-04:00

First things first... thank God I'm posting, so that some other hideous photo kind of moves down the blog. Thanks again Shaun.

Today, I was joined by two other founding fathers of THD at the Poto. They joined me to break in my new Niner EMD. If you are going to ride a new mountain bike for the first time, Poto isn't a bad way to go. In fact, in SE Mich, it might be the best way to go... so nobs to that! The trail kicked my ass. I was very slow. I bonked halfway through the ride. Pretty much bonked cause I might have righted the ship a little too much this week, and didn't give myself enough calories to hammer the trail today. Oh well. The bike itself kicks ass. For the first mile I was out there, the bike seemed to float over everything. Once I settled down, the ride was ok. I have to get used to the new geometry, as well as some other things, but once I do, I think this Niner will be ridiculous.

Halfway through the ride, Coach wanted to take a few mile detour, and check out Hell, so Jrad and I obliged. Below are a few pics from Hell:

Shaun, cause you weren't with us, I specifically chose this shot for you... cause of the NOBS!

No words are needed for this, this is classically AWESOME!

And to cap things off, I had mentioned some cute little Internet video that is a few years old... I think you guys will enjoy all the "bang bang bang!" Check it out!

O2S - A picture is worth 1000 words..

2011-08-17T18:46:00.004-04:00

I could say how perfect the weather was. Or how great the race went for everyone. Of how awesome it was seeing everyone and staying at Steves parents who are fabulous hosts. I could go on all day. But words cannot descibe how great Ore 2 Shore weekend was. The joy on HD's face after 17 Coors Lights pretty much says it all...

NObs.

My new ride (sort of)

2011-08-15T10:43:00.003-04:00

My 2008 Gary Fisher Paragon frame cracked a few weeks ago right near the seat tube. Google 2008 Paragon frame crack and you will find many pictures of the same crack I got. It took about a week for Rochester Bike Shop to process the warranty claim. Since Hot Dog is showing off his new ride, here's mine:

This is my fourth bike frame warrantied by Trek. Take that information however you like. I also realized through various circumstances (insurance, gift, warranties) that I have not paid full price for a mountain bike since 1991!

On an unrelated note, for some reason, I cannot figure out how to post comments to other people's posts.

O2S Recap

2011-08-14T17:07:00.003-04:00

Well. Another O2S is in the books. Good news is, we all finished, and we all finished in less than 4 hours. Shaun (as always) was the fastest hot dog with a sub 3 hour time. Purple Helmet had a solid showing around 3:09 or something and Steve, was most improved hot dog with a blistering finishing time of 3:28. Amazing. The rest of us made it to finish line on fumes.

Anyways, it was good times. I'm typing this a little perturbed right now though. It's 5pm on Sunday, gorgeous day out, sun in full bloom and we're on the Mackinaw straits enjoying summertime in northern Michigan in all her glory... and you know what? EVERYONE IS ASLEEP BUT ME!!! WTF!! Seriously!? Team hot dog my ass. I'm renaming us Team Geriatric. Pathetic. Well... I'm about 7 Coors Lights deep. Time to slam a Red Bull and go kayak the straits.

Look for a full write up on the weekend in a few days. I still have some partying to get out of my system. Peace out.

HDs New EMD

2011-08-10T22:29:00.005-04:00

Yes! My 2011 Niner EMD (Eat My Dust) arrived in the mail today! Here's a few pics of it. I couldn't play with it as much as I wanted to... had to cut the lawn, take the gf out to dinner, visit my parents, and pack for O2S. That being said, I'll be rolling the Stumpy at O2S. The Niner needs a few adjustments before he's trail/race ready.

You can read more about the wonderful addition to my stable by clicking here. See all of you guys up north in a few hours!

It's Time to Go Home.

2011-08-08T22:11:00.005-04:00

That's right. O2S (Ore to Shore) 2007. Where it all started. Team Hot Dog. A few douchebags (see below) that didn't really know each other that decided to head up to the UP and do this bike thing.

5 Coors Lights the night before the race and no breakfast leading up to a 48 mile sufferfest, and well... here we are again. Somehow its become the highlight of the cycling year. and. I CAN'T WAIT! Just a few more days boys.... Let's go home. (Hope your parents are ready for us Coach!)

Almost Hundo #1

2011-08-06T17:01:00.005-04:00

2011 Miles to Date:???????
2011 Ride Time to Date:????????
Previous 365 Day Miles Total:???????
Previous 365 Day Hundo Total:????????

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/104485154

Damn rain and construction kept me from my last mile. I was getting a tad frustrated.

Ore 2 Shore: Train Saturday, Recover Sunday

2011-08-03T15:21:00.004-04:00

First up, Saturday, park downtown by Rochester mills like we did with HD that one time years ago, and roll either the PCT or the back roads to Lake Orion where we can ride my Tuesday ride. (http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/14908990) Planning a start time of 9am. (or earlier if you want) The pace will be fairly brisk. Bring your man pants. Its hilly. There will be no whining, no quitting... Just a steady tempo ride at a honest, I almost want my mommy pace.... It will not be for the weak. Not a puke fest but no burger roll either...

Which brings me to Sunday... For whoever wants to venture out this way, a nice easy recovery ride to Milford for some sweat single track (I found the actual trailhead) and recovery cheeseburgers. At one local teams recovery pace its only about an hour and 5 minutes to downtown, half hour or so of trail, then a recovery cheeseburger and a ride home that will be nice and easy. It's exactly 40 miles from my house, including the trail. Keep the HR down is the theory here. Until you start digesting a double patty fungus burger and a load of fries. Or if we are not in the mood for burgers, margaritas and burritos.

Let me know.

Coach's O2S Training Secrets

2011-07-31T21:05:00.011-04:00

With just a few weeks to go before the 2011 Ore 2 Shore Bike Race in Marquette, Mi. a lot of fan e-mail has come into Team Hot Dog Headquarters asking me how I train for such a demanding race. With O2S designated as a Priority A race, a lot of time and effort goes into making sure everything is just perfect. You can not skip over any of the steps and expect to perform at the level that someone of my abilities is capable of. So, with that being said, here is the secret of my success...

Step 1. Ride A Lot
I, so far this week, have 10 miles in at Pontiac Lake Recreation Area. But I was at optimal race pace and managed a blistering 01:23:52 lap time. I am also planning on doing a lap at ILRA or maybe Maybury this week. We will see. I don't know if I'll have enough time

Step 2. Stay Hydrated
This is a very important part of my training. Especially with the temperatures that have plagued SE Michigan over the last month, it is crucial to consume as much liquid as possible. Just last night, Mrs. Coach and I stayed hydrated by sampling a few bottles of Wine. Grapes are fruit so you can't go wrong there! Might I suggest a company named Leinenkugels who I hear makes a tasty trail-side Lemonade.

Step 3. Don't Forget to Stretch (or breathe!)
After an intense workout, it is extremely important to stretch out those tired muscles. If you don't follow this step, then your friends will have to listen to you bitch and moan about how you messed up your knees for a whole year. I have found that Pilates and Yoga does the trick for me. I picked up an excellent workout video that may help you as well...

Step 4. Make sure that your bike is in Optimal Condition
A lot of people find this to be an important step before a long race such as the O2S. I prefer to skip this step and focus more on the more important steps. Besides, if your bike is working properly, then you're not really riding hard enough.

Step 5. Cross Train
Spending all of your time focused on cycling can make it kind of boring. You definitely don't want to get "burned out" before the big day so I have found that trying other activities can be beneficial. One such activity involves laying on the couch. Now some of you may laugh but there's a method to my madness. Spending up to 4 hours in the seated position while clicking a device (in this case, a remote control) can best simulate the O2S race. Clicking the Remote control helps to maintain your superior shifting skills so you're ready for the big day. I almost forgot that it is important to make sure that your cable bill is paid prior to attempting this step.

Another great cross-training activity that I enjoy is swimming. You can tell by my superior tan in the photo below that I spend HOURS in the water working on my cardio.

Step 6: Taper
With all of this work that you'll be putting in, it is important to remember to rest. I can not stress enough how important it is to follow this step. At least a week before a huge event of this nature, be sure and take some time off your bike. Your body will thank you for it. Focus this time on carbo-loading so you have enough nutrients for the big day.

By following all of these steps, I can almost guarantee you a Sub 5 hour lap time at the Ore 2 Shore Hard Rock race. But ONLY if you follow each and every one of these steps. I am looking forward to seeing each and every one of you up north in a few weeks for what always turns out to be epic adventures...

- Coach

Tree Farm Relay videos

2011-07-31T19:32:00.004-04:00

Hello Hotdoggers,

After PLRA made me her bitch on Wednesday I needed to get a quick pick me up. I found these videos on youtube and wanted to share them. You can see some hot dog jerseys riding around. There is a nice spot where it shows me at 3:13 on the first video. Just saying. Enjoy!

Tour de Troit

2011-07-29T21:06:00.003-04:00

Yo. What up?! So, I got an email today from the Tour de Troit people letting me know that registration is open for business, for this year's fun ride through the Motor City. The event is slated for Saturday, September 24 and takes off at 8am sharp. If you register before August 1st (which is only a few short days away), the price will be discounted (it's now $35, but will go up). Included in the price is a snazzy t-shirt, which I missed out on last year so I might do it up to get the shirt.

The link for registration of this fine event can be found [here].

My accounts of last year's experience can be found [here].

Even though my average speed for the ride was a whopping 9.1 mph, this was honestly one of the coolest things (next to the Iceman, lol) I've ever done on two wheels. I hope we get a good gang together for the ride. Just was sweet to do something different. I might try fastening a boom box to my handlebars, so yes, I'm taking requests... let me know what you want the rest of Detroit to jam as tHD pimps on through.... Kid Rock, Too Short, Barry Manilow, whatever. Perhaps a stop at our favorite hole in Mexicantown could be arranged as well...? Just throwing it out there.

That's it for now. Hope you kids are all prepping for O2S. Kisses.

Tree Farm Photos

2011-07-24T10:43:00.006-04:00

These posted in descending order so if you want to avoid confusion you can start at the bottom of this post. If confusion is something you're comfortable with you can start at the top, or in the middle, or near the end or beginning or just follow the numbers.

11

6

37

12

103

7

15

Ride Around Torch Lake 2011

2011-07-21T12:46:00.003-04:00

Sunday, July 17, 2011 was a great day for a road ride! Here's a few shots from the Ride Around Torch Lake. Hope everyone had a great time. To see a few more shots, including a few scenery shots, visit my Flickr site at http://www.flickr.com/photos/larrythebiker/

*** Below is a "hd" edit. Larry said "scenery", and well, I just wanted to make sure all versions of that word were represented.

Mission to Old Mission Peninsula

2011-07-18T22:54:00.003-04:00

It was a great ride to the end of the Old Mission Peninsula on Saturday. Special thanks to John and Steve for initiating and organizing this group ride. The Old Mission is one of my favorite road rides in Michigan. Here's a few shots and my Garmin log from the ride. You can check out a few more shots on my Flickr page.

GET OFF THE FENCE!

2011-07-06T21:57:00.003-04:00

If you are in for Torch Lake weekend, please let Coach Steve know by Thursday so we can make arrangements on where to crash our hot dogs at night. I think he has a thread started on Facebook, so go over there and cast your two cents on what you are doing. Should be an awesome weekend. I know we're doing the Old Mission Peninsula ride Saturday, and Sunday will be the Ride Around Torch on our converted cross bikes made into road demons.

Check out this beaut I dug up from the archives circa August 2004. The last time I rode all the way to the tip of the Old Mission. This could be you in just over a week! (minus the gay jersey)

Another BBB in the Books!

2011-07-04T17:57:00.012-04:00

Another 4th of July has come and gone. That doesn't mean team Hot Dog didn't do it up, the way its supposed to be! Gorgeous weather allowed us to hammer through 42 miles or so, up some of the biggest hills Michigan has to offer. At the end of this glorious rainbow, Coors Light, Summer Shandy, Buffalo Chicken brats, and the highlight of them all, cheese stuffed, bacon wrapped, Nathan's hot dogs awaited us upon completion of this perfect day.

The team, and Shaun's "knob", pose for a photo

Getting our hammer on!

Yes, that's a flag coming out of my ass. Happy Birthday America!

Maneuvering another sensitive horse.

Coach taking it all in.

Shaun's arms really need some sun.

I think is what is giving me heart palpitations tonight.

Final Results:

July is Hot Dog Month!!

2011-07-02T08:06:00.005-04:00

Yes kids, unless you've all been living under a rock, you should know that July is National Hot Dog Month!

I'd say here at thd HQ, we're getting that month off to a great start! Yesterday, coach dragged me around Island Lake for 2 laps. We had a good time, the trail was fast, and we were getting ready for Monday's 3rd ever BBB. Hope everyone can make it. I'm still pondering which of my favorite lagers I'll be purchasing in it's finest 6 pack form...? Hmm....

At any rate, I leave you with this fine photo to celebrate Hot Dog Month!

It's That Time Again...

2011-06-27T19:40:00.004-04:00

Team Hot Dog is proud to announce the Third Annual

Bike, Beer and Beef Festival
July 4, 2011 @ 10am
Waterford, MI.

Yes, you read that right....Team HD has somewhat of a little tradition going on. What happens is this: 1) We meet up at Shaun's House around 10am and BIKE out to Holdridge, maybe do a lap or maybe just hang out at the Gas Station and drink tons of root beer... 2) We pedal back home, open up the cooler and recover from our 4oish mile ride with some BEER...and 3) we fire up the grill and toss some BEEF on there.

That's pretty much how it's always been and that`s how it will continue to be. So if you think this sounds like fun, don your weiner jerseys, hop on the 'oll trusty bicycle and join us. We ask that you bring your own beer, bring a dish to pass and some meat or grill type of items. Plan on a relatively easy 40ish mile backroad ride and if it's anything like last year, it's gonna be hot.

For our entertainment, we can watch re-runs of the Annual Nathans Hot Dog Eatting Competition on ESPN. It`s gonna be AWESOME! Post up and let us know if you can make it, what you can bring to pass along and what kind of beer you're drinking!

- Steve

The Prodigal Son Returns!

2011-06-20T22:03:00.002-04:00

Live a phoenix rising from the ashes, here the hell I come! Bronchitis and Pneumonia for the second year in a row can only keep me down for so long. After a few shots to the ass, blood tests, breathing treatments, x-rays, steroids, and anti-biotics, I can say I'm done goofing around. While I still might have a cough, I'm getting back on the fucking bike.

First of all. Congrats Jrad. I can't wait to see the very first baby trailer assembled with Chris King hubs. Should be pretty pimp.

Second of all. Congrats to all of you Lumberjacks. I'll never try that race, cause well, I like biking too much and want to continue enjoying said activity. I give you all major props for that though. You guys are hard core.

Thirdly. (Yes, I'm talking funny. It's called 5 Sierra Nevadas) I just wanted to call attention out to the next few events on the HD agenda... all events I'm eagerly looking forward to, and I hope all of you out there in wiener blog world are too.

a) Ride Around Torch
Sunday, July 17, 2011.... it's gonna be here before you know it. I know coach and myself, along with Larry plan on doing this sucker. Nice little 62 mile road ride around some long lake thing. We're gonna camp that weekend too. As we get closer to the event, more details will present themselves. Look for them in your local wienerschneitzel.

b) Team Tree Farm Relay Race
Saturday, July 23, 2011... I'm pretty sure we are close to fielding 2 teams. Team 1 will consist of Myroo, Jrad, Coach, and myself. If Jrad and Myroo could give me the green light, I will register our spot. Team 2 could very possibly consist of James, David, and Tim. We need a 4th. Hint, hint Larry! I'm pretty sure Coach will bring his tent, I'll have my grill, and we will once again enjoy one of the funnest bike weekends of the year. Let me know if you are interested. Please!

c) Ore to Shore
Saturday, August 13, 2011... Yeah. I don't think much words are necessary. Year #5 for thd. Should have our largest contingent ever up there this year. Don't be the one not going.

That's it for now! Looking forward to the next few weeks back on the bike. I've missed you guys, and am healthy enough to get back out there again!

The Lumberjack 66

2011-06-19T21:31:00.010-04:00

Team Hot Dog rolled into the Big M in true Rock and Roll (McDonalds) style for the 2011 Lumberjack 100. Granted, there weren't any screaming fans, chicks asking us to sign their b00bs, paparazzi or any of that cool stuff. Having Shaun's Dad's R.V. was a real nice perk to have at the course, no question. We tossed our coolers in the pits, caught the pre-race meeting and then headed a few miles down the road for the roll-out. I don't think any of us had breakfast...Who really needs breakfast before racing 100 miles anyways?

The 7:00 start came fast and furious as Myroo, JRAD and I quickly settled into the back of the pack for what was to be a long day on the bike. Our strategy was going to be "slow and steady" and it worked for the first lap. The course was in great shape, the weather was amazing and we were feeling good. About halfway through lap 1, we somehow stumbled upon Shaun's number plate (#227) on the trail that looked all beat to hell. We dropped it off at the aide station and hoped that he was still out there and that he wasn't attacked by the Udell Hills Sasquatch. Once we rolled into the pits, we took a nice and easy break, filled up our bottles, re-applied generous amounts of Chamois Butt'r and then I spotted my parents who came down to visit. Seeing them there gave me all the mental boost I needed to get back out and give it all I had.

Shortly after we left the pits, I jammed on my rear break and it made an awful squealing noise. I had heard this noise once before when my brake pads had completely worn out. Sure enough, that was the case. Who needs rear brakes anyways, right? No problem....what else could go wrong???

So, if a tree falls in the woods on top of 2/3'rds of Team Hot Dog, would it make a sound? JRAD and I came disastrously close to finding out on our second lap. As if our heart rates weren't already elevated from riding, a random tree branch (and by branch, think small-car size) decided to fall within inches of us. About 10 miles later, we were passed by the leaders who were on their last lap. A little demotivating, to say the least but we weren't out there to win the damn thing...We just wanted to finish. After fueling up on some oreos and coke at the aide station is where my knees really started to tell me my day was over. I threw a couple of hints and facial expressions to JRAD for the remaining miles and I think he understood exactly what they meant.

We got back into the pits with minutes to spare before the lap 3 cut-off time. Sure we could have gone back out but my knees were shot and jrad was feeling the burn. They were serving Burritos and Founders All Day IPA...What would you do? After stuffing my face and sharing a beer with my Father on Father's Day Weekend (AWESOME!), my folks headed back home and we headed to the campground to de-stink in Sand Lake and sacrifice the Tubed Meats to our swollen pro-racing bellies.

I'm excited that I FINALLY, after 3 years of problems, got a chance to start this race. Bummed that I didn't get to finish it but I consider that motivation for next year. As we were slamming down what could have been the best Cinnamon Roll EVER at the Kozy Kitchen the following morning, an ominous photo was perched over our heads signaling that it was yet again time to "RIGHT THE SHIP!"
- Steve

Motivational Music

2011-06-13T21:09:00.004-04:00

It's only Monday and I'm already having a hard time focusing on my job. We just got our final email from Rick regarding the Lumberjack 100 and it triggered the little butterflies...Not really sure why I'm so excited to torture my body again like I did at Hanson but I can't wait! So in honor of my pre-race excitement, here's a little motivational music for y'all!

You were expecting Monty Python, weren't you? Wheeee!

tHD Cures Diabetes Again!

2011-06-11T17:04:00.006-04:00

For a second year in a row, Team Hot Dog has raised over $1,000 for the American Diabetes Association in it's quest to cure the dreaded Diabetes. David, James and I spent months hassling our friends, family members and co-workers for donations and my thanks goes out to all of you who gave in to our repeated requests and donated.

In true tHD fashion, I forgot my cycling shoes and ended up delaying our start about 45 minutes. With the threat of severe weather in the air, James and I considered switching to the 35 mile route but decided to stay the course. Once on the road, we had a challenging time navigating the 65 mile lap due to the extremely poor signage. The weather wasn't much of a factor apart from a little mist and fog but the sun finally came out for the last 20 miles. The highlight of the day had to be our time in Hell (and the puns that followed). The highway to hell, the ringing of Hell`s Bells when we arrived, being tired as hell, and the big hill from hell that we had to climb just to name a few!

All in all, we pedaled just over 71 miles (bonus miles from being lost) and enjoyed the traditional Carabbas post ride meal. It always feels great to cross the finish line and to have everyone cheering for you. The event had some flaws this year (poor signage being the biggest) but I have a feeling that I'll be back for another ride! I hope you consider joining us...

- Steve

I Scream, You Scream...We All Scream For BEEF!

2011-06-05T21:26:00.007-04:00

When we came up with the idea for a Back road Burger Ride, our critics laughed at us. They told us that it couldn't be done. But they underestimated us. They did not count on our sheer grit, determination and the lengths of stupidity that we would go through when it comes to beef. We set out to prove them all wrong and this is our story...

To train for a ride of this magnitude, we knew that we needed a proper pre-ride dinner the night before. This consisted of 10lbs of Steak, Chicken and Baked (or was it re fried?) Beans. Pre-Ride hydration came in the forms of copious amounts of Coors Light, of course! But the thing that gave us our edge was the double-scoop of Ice Cream courtesy of Kalideascoops Ice Cream Parlor.

After a late night of Hockey viewing, the morning came quickly and we all donned our spandex to prove the world wrong. Our goal was to make it from the PLRA Parking lot to Downtown Milford for a Burger and a Shake @ The Burger Joint. A spirited pedal got us into downtown Milford an hour early so we chose to burn off some more calories from the previous nights massacre and headed to the Milford Hike/Bike trail. A quick decision from Shaun to try a different route led us right into the fabled Milford Singletrack that chris-crosses the trail. I think we were all surprised with how much fun this little gem turned out to be, complete with some workers, stabbers and scenic vistas.

But we had to keep our eyes on the prize so when we finished up the roughly 6 miles of sweetness, we pointed our wheels back in the direction of The Burger Joint. In all of our spandex glory, we proudly walked up to the counter and ordered up our feast. I ordered up the Fungus Burger and a Strawberry shake. To all of our surprises, the burgers were double-pattied, totaling 1/2lb of meat madness. Big mushrooms, Swiss cheese and a few strips of bacon made this easily one of the better burgers I have ever taken down. The double-patty proved to be too much for the unseasoned JRAD and Shaun, but I managed to put it down. (Rookies!)

Nothing about this ride was difficult UP TO THIS POINT. Digestion started to set in, we had been sitting and stuffing our faces, causing our muscles to tighten up. On top of that, the temperature was starting to hover right around 300 degrees. With 20 miles left to go, and 1/2lb. of beef sweating out of our pores, it was a merciful spin to the finish line. As we were leaving the city limits of Milford, I went to sprint around Shaun and JRAD so I could crush them and the sheer weight of Beef, Beer, Ice Cream and Kalideoscoops caused my chain to scream "UNCLE" and snap in half. The Team Mechanic got me back up and rolling thankfully but we had plenty of offers for help from several people including a fellow cyclist who pulled up, rolled down his window and said "What`s up, F*%$*rs?!?!?"

At the end of the day, it's hard for me to determine if I burned more calories than I took in. I`m pretty sure I didn't. Just to make sure, I headed back to Kalidascoops. Great day for a ride with good friends and good food. We'll do it again soon, I`m sure!

- Steve

A whole lotta options...

2011-06-03T12:58:00.001-04:00

Just a quick post to let everyone know what's going on this weekend ride-wise...Saturday, were meeting @ 10am at the Murray Lake trailhead for a lap. Nice and easy roll so come on out.

Sunday, most likely around 10am, were going to meet @ the plra parking lot, head towards Highland Rec for an A loop and then roll into Milford for a burger.

Hope to see you all at some point this weekend!
-Steve

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Hanson Hills 100

2011-05-29T14:03:00.008-04:00

Over the last few years, I had this crazy idea in my head that I wanted to complete a 100 mile mountain bike race. With all of my injury excuses pretty much behind me, a new Epic 29er, a solid week of singletrack and beer drinking in North Carolina and a 3 day weekend ahead of me, all of the stars lined up and I entered the Fun Promotions Hanson Hills 100.

The Start: 7:00am, Grayling K-Mart Parking Lot
The race began with a "spirited" 20mph police-escorted road start which took us into Hanson Hills. Once inside, the pack quickly separated into the fast guys who were out to win it and the rest of us who were out to simply finish it. My plan for the race was to pick a reasonable pace and try to maintain it for 100 miles. As we passed the first aide station at around mile 8, I realized that my flawed strategy was thrown out the window at about mile 4. I ended up hooking onto the wheel of Jason Bailey of Twin Six/Lakeshore Cycle and we spent some time talking and keeping our minds off the long road ahead of us. He was pushing a reasonable pace and the next thing I knew, we were rolling into our first pit stop.

The Pits:
As it warmed up a little and the rain stopped, I stripped off a layer and reloaded my VelEau Hydration Pack (which was a lifesaver!). I grabbed an Odawalla bar just in case I got hungry down the road. Jason was waiting for me so I hopped back on my bike ready for lap #2. We kept a pretty good pace going into the aide station again. We grabbed a few supplies and headed back out. About mile 30, I looked up and realized that I was fading so I think I told him I'd see him later (I never did see him later, though) and he took off. About 40 miles in, the Odawalla bar was calling my name. I was hungry and decided to bust into something solid, Big mistake! From mile 40 to 50 (and probably beyond), I tried my best not to litter the woods Odawalla style. I had also been battling some butt-muscle cramping since about mile 15, which didn't help!

Lap 3, JRAD and Julie:
This is where things start to get a little blurry...I got into the pits and it was really nice to see JRAD and Julie there. We talked a little bit about stuff but I was honestly delirious. I remember JRAD filling my water bottles for me and laughing at how pathetic I looked. I grabbed some of Shaun's Endurolytes and some Advil in hopes that they would do something for me. Everything hurt and I felt like another 50 miles was next to impossible. For whatever reason, I got back on my bike and headed back out for another 25. I was trading spots with a rider who was in the same boat as I (just trying to finish). We kept each other in eye-shot and just pedaled a good pace. Lap 3 hurt, but it went by pretty "smoothly."

Lap 4, I Think I can...I Think I can...Can I?
I dragged myself into the pits with a couple of hours before the Cut-Off time and was kind of surprised that I was doing so well. I decided to reward myself with a coke and some pringles that I had bought the day before. The sugar, caffeine and the salty chips made me feel like Pac Man when he eats a power pellet. So with everything in my body hurting, a bunch of chips, some pop and a fresh refill of liquids, I did what I came up there to do...Finish! About 100 yards down the trail, I started to really regret my decision to go back out. While walking my bike slowly up the first hill, I began talking to myself out loud that I was going to take the last 25 miles one-by-one. Every mile marker, I decided to celebrate with a little fist pump and a "woohoo!".

I limped into the aide station and really started to feel like death warmed over. The guys working the station pumped me up with some humor and a promise of Quesadillas at the finish line. I grabbed some endurolytes and a hammer bar and prepared for 18 of the most painful miles of my life. The miles ticked by slowly and it was incredibly lonesome out there. I was upset at myself for not bringing my Droid, which had such great songs as "Rock and Roll McDonalds" and "Cut the Mullet". I began to walk up hills that weren't really hills and then I would realize that I was walking DOWN hills too. Getting on and off my bike felt like I had sandpaper for a chamois. Hell, even trying to stay on the trail was tough!

I set my sights on the "Napper" bridge as the point where I was "Almost home!" It seemed to take forever to get there but when I did finally make it (I feel stupid saying this, but...), I let out a faint and weak "Wheeeeee!" for my tHD Homies. I knew I only had a couple of miles left. The sun came out and I pedaled with what little energy I had left. Fun Promotions must have sent out the search and rescue team after me because (I think it was...) Brent was waiting for me at the bottom of one of the last climbs. He cheered me on and pumped me up to pedal the last grueling hill and ultimately to my first ever 100 mile finish. I even had a nice little cheering section and a Quesadilla waiting for me!

So, my apologies for the long post but this was the most difficult and rewarding ride I have ever taken on and I had a lot to say! 100 Milers are no joke. It's really crazy how many different situations come up, whether it's bike related or body related, that you have to deal with and determine whether or not to continue. Ultimately, you have to want it.

Bring on The Lumberjack 100!
- Steve

Blogs?

2011-05-24T20:00:00.002-04:00

First things first, there has been a carrot dangling out there in front of us for the past two weeks. Yet we are no closer to reaching that elusive carrot.

I must ask where are the lost blogs of North Carolina?

Second things second, the THD group ride of last Saturday. What to say, it was an Epic day in many ways. Epic in ways that you could never imagined. There were hopes of Burgers and Beers, maybe the hint of Chinese food. But we ended up at the CVS for our mid ride snack. All because it was an Epic day.

All in all it was a good day, Shaun, JRAD, and myself clocked in around 80 miles give or take, it was approximately nine hours on the bike, I popped my Highland cherry with way too big of a gear, and there was one Epic bike failure that dashed all our hopes and dreams.

Sorry for Steve who could only join us on half of our ride due the the Epic bike failure. But, we did hold off on burgers until you can join us.

I know it won't be North Carolina

2011-05-17T20:12:00.003-04:00

Since this will be my last weekend before LJ to get a long ride in here are my ideas:

1. Multiple laps at Poto
2. A PLRA and Holdridge ride
3. A PLRA and Highland ride (I have never ridden Highland)
4. A PLRA, Highland, and Holdridge ride.

Looking to start fairly early (8:00a) but am open to suggestions. I am looking to get somewhere between six to eight hours of ride time.

Need to get a last long ride in before I drive the Subaru across the big pond.

Beam Me Up, JRAD!

2011-05-01T21:02:00.005-04:00

Since most of my tHD brethren wussed out on the 2nd Annual N.O.S.S. Gravel Grinder, you're all stuck reading my awesome blog post about my thrilling Sunday Hines Drive with JRAD. In short, it was beyond expectations...ESPECIALLY the part where JRAD was nearly assaulted by a Flying Saucer. He didn't see it because he was tucked in a sweet-azz aero position cruising down one of the biggest hills in Hines Drive...but some hippie Frisbee golf player apparently had too much of the wacky tabakee and sent his disk shaped golf ball flying over Hines Drive and almost right into jrad`s noggin. Here is what it looked like from my angle:

Most of Hines Drive was blocked off due to flooding but we didn't really have much of a problem with the water. Otherwise, it was an uneventful roll. I am fat and out of shape and the countdown to our Pisgah trip has begun. If you want some sweet blog photos and exciting stories, you already know this is not your lucky day. In closing, I would like to caution you all to either wash your brand new biking shorts or apply generous amounts of Chamois Butt'r before riding. OUCH!

- Steve

Milford Trail Challenge

2011-04-22T11:37:00.002-04:00

Hello fellow Hot Dogs. I received a facebook event invite from the MMBA for the Milford Trail Challenge. It's June 4th, the weekend before Tour De Cure. Sounds like a good time to me. Here are the details.

http://www.milfordchallenge.com/

Me thinks I'll be partaking in these shenanigans.

Florida Is FLAT

2011-04-15T11:44:00.004-04:00

Well, since this is my first post be confident that I may mess this up.

Anyway on with the show. Recently the family unit went on vacation to lovely Sanibel Island, Florida.

This Island has no street lights (Traffic Signals) and when you first get on the island via a 3 mile causeway cost $6. The first sign you see is that if you don't yield to pedestrians or cyclists you will get a $80 fine.

Well this is Friendly I thought, but after running around the island in a subcompact car that seats 6 people and gets about 30 mile to the gallon, I realized that this was extremely cyclist friendly (yes I used the word extremely).

On an island that only 7 miles long it has 26miles of paved cycling paths.

If i sound like i am bragging, Forgive me, bit more history so hold on:
this Island is 2/3 Nature Refuge, with abundant wildlife, including Alligators, Manatee's, occasional Team Hot Dog Cyclist.

The Nightlife is Loud and crazy, swear I heard what sounded like a monkey laughing at me, in the dark.

Coolest part was the Alligator that greeted us every time we went down the street. I noticed there were no feral animals around anywhere huh?
When we got in to the house on the first day there was a 5' Black racer snake getting a drink from the pool in the middle of the afternoon sun, my girls were like nah we'll swim later.

Again crazy wildlife!, Its everywhere down there.

I got to ride a mountain bike (loaner) a total of 16miles on the island and there was a lot more to explore, if you looking for a low key unwind cycling destination try Sanibel Island.

There are 2 bike shops on the island, another on Captiva, and the best part is that the lack of chain restaurants allows you to pursue adventurous cuisine, mostly seafood.

Oh the fishing was effortless if you like that sort of recreation, I know a great fishing guide.

By the way its FLAT and the only hill was on the causeway coming over to the island, the greatest challenge was trying not to run over the Box Tortoise on the paths.

Enjoy the fun of cycling this spring, Wheeeee!

Gravel Goodness Jr.

2011-04-13T19:51:00.004-04:00

So last night I took off on a ride that was posted by fellow biking friend Brian Bratney. I decided in the beginning to cut some mileage off of the ride due to the head wind that I would be facing on the way home. I invited my other Hot Dog teammates to join me but alas I had no takers so I went it alone.

On the way out the ride was fun and spirited. Saw a lot of area that I have never seen before and found some new gravel roads to appreciate. Not a lot of climbing on the route but I rode some well groomed gravel roads. Then I started to head north. I knew this would be a problem from the start of the ride. As I made that fateful left hand turn onto I was met with a strong head wind. At times a gust would hit me and it felt as if I was standing still. I would then pick up speed again and it would start all over again. Looking forward to this ride again, maybe next time I will do the entire route.

I am thinking ILRA tomorrow nite if there is any interest.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/78892973

First Single Track Ride Of The Season!!

2011-04-13T19:20:00.005-04:00

Well, I was sitting at work today and was thinking I definitely wanted to go for a ride today. I was thinking of hitting Paint Creek Trail (which has the biggest hills in MI by the way) but I received some last minute motivation from Coach Steve to hit the single track at Stony Creek. He said "you cant get better on the PCT". So after about a few minutes of debating I decided to pop the season cherry.

A 2 mile ride from my apartment to the hole in the fence trail head and I was ready to go. I started my trek through the Pines and I felt like I owned the place. I felt fast cause I passed a few people, yes they were older woman and they may have been on their 4th lap but that's neither here nor there.... The Snake was a little tough but I pulled through to reach the top of Mt. Sheldon.

After a short rest I started my way on the roller coaster which was really fun. I actually fell one time as I was climbing a hill and just turned the wheel to much and just fell over (Damn Clipless). Reaching the last hill at the end of loop was the easiest part. Maybe cause there was a group of people at the top and I wanted to look cool Roadhouse Style.

All in all it was a great ride and it felt good to get out and hit the trails. Now its time to power up with some steak and the silver bullet, that's Coors Light to all you perverts thinking something else.

WHeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!

Truth, justice and "A Whole New Way..." (TM)

2011-04-12T14:55:00.003-04:00

Yes, it's TEAM HOT DOG... strange visitors from another planet, who came to Earth with powers and cycling abilities far beyond those of mortal men! TEAM HOT DOG... who can incapacitate mighty livers, bend steel bike frames in their bare hands, and who, disguised as people such as Larry, mild-mannered reporter for a great weekly newspaper, fight a never-ending battle for truth, justice, and "A Whole New Way!" ™

## Okay that may be a bit of an exageration for the ride I took to Trombley Mountain/Ford Michigan Proving Grounds on Sunday but tailwinds gusty sure did make me feel like a super hero from time to time as I accerlerated up to 30 MPH. Headwinds were like kryptonite. My current schedule has not allowed me to participate in a few of the early season Team Hot Dog events and rides but I plan on soon. It looks like I will be riding Tuesday evenings after 5 p.m. in the Stony Creek Metropark area and the same place and Bat Channel on Sunday afternoons if anyone cares to join me.

The Bratney Ride

2011-04-10T20:40:00.002-04:00

I saw Brian's post this weekend and it made me a bit curious to do a gravel road ride out Novi way. My plan is to leave the Bureau Veritas (my work) parking lot and head off on the route posted below. This ride will happen Tuesday hoping to leave NLT 5:00. Planning on a spirited pace to get us back in 3 hours. Lights may be needed so have them charged. Post up if interested. http://connect.garmin.com/activity/78086164

Finally!

2011-04-09T19:03:00.012-04:00

Ok, so the Kid Rock ride didn't exactly get off the ground last weekend. Thankfully, today we were allowed to get out and roll a few back road miles. Not exactly ideal conditions, but I think we were all as excited to bike as Buddy the Elf was to see Santa! (I know Him!) Yeah, so it wasn't Santa...It was JRAD's sweet new Red shorts that he was sporting. They looked pretty good until we hit the real muddy sections of the back roads then all bets were off. Eventually, all of our bikes, waterbottles, Awesome Straps and spandex started to look like this: We made it out to the Holly Gas Station in around an hour and a half. As you can see by this photo, Cooper was so excited that nothing busted off his bike at this point that he just wanted to shout it out to the world. We're not exactly sure if he was excited or if it was some form of "Roid Rage" based on how he was pedaling today. Second half of the ride was soupy and hill-covered. Somehow we made it back in one piece and called it good at around 37.5 miles. Let's do it again sometime...maybe when it's warmer and less muddy!

- "Coach" Steve

The Neon Couch

2011-04-05T21:06:00.003-04:00

If you would have told me @ 6am this morning that I was going to be out riding two laps at Hickory Glenn later on in the day, I would have slapped your face and called you a liar! Driving into work, I had to fight the brutally frigid arctic winds just to keep the poor CR-V on the road. At noon, on my way to Famous Dave's for a protein sandwich and fries, I was greeted by more wind and everybody's favorite four-letter-word....SNOW! After some post-lunch emails with Shaun, I was dead-set on not riding this evening.... Well, I guess you know the rest of the story since you already read that first half of the blog post. It's been years since I rode Hickory Glenn and even though it's not one of the more challanging trails in SE Michigan, it perked up my heart-rate and caused me to say "Wheeeee!" a few times. It was my first Singletrack ride with the Neon Couch, as I`m now calling the new Specialized Epic since it feels like I'm on a couch when I ride that thing. I almost felt bad for Shaun, who was riding his Rigid Niner Singlespeed with some ungodly huge gear ratio. I even offered to let him test ride, but the skulls (see photo) would not let him. Anyways, it turned out to be a nice day to get a few miles in! Roadhouse! -Steve

Sh!tty Weather Got You Down?

2011-04-04T19:41:00.003-04:00

Fear not Hot Dog Nation. Pretty soon, the weather will improve. The trees will once again grow green shit on them (as seen above), flowers will bloom, birds will chirp, Charlie Sheen will disappear from the media, and tHD will be back in the saddle on a more consistent basis.

Keep it real.

...And you thought Barry Roubaix was Tough

2011-03-30T13:46:00.006-04:00

UPDATE - It appears that Mother Nature intends to spoil this one for us. We're going to move the ride to Sunday if that's cool with all of you?!?! Let's say 1-ish at PLRA Parking Lot? I just got off the phone with the owners of the Gas Station on Grange Hall road. I had to let them know that this Saturday, Team Hot Dog and friends of tHD will be heading out on our bikes, up some of the biggest hills in Michigan on our way to their fine establishment. I specifically asked them start making their delicious fresh sandwiches and wraps, get their pigs in a blanket ready to go and, if Jay shows up, stock the Root Beer! The pace will be slow, the heart rates will be high. Some will laugh, some will cry and others will just plan hate life. Pack the Cytomax, make sure you have enough nourishment for a 40 mile ride and bring a camera in case we come across Kid Rock! So if you've got what it takes, show up at the PLRA parking lot @ 1pm this Saturday and get ready to rock and roll. Wheeee!

Tour de Cure

2011-03-28T19:58:00.002-04:00

Confirmed on my 2nd race. Signed up for the Tour de Cure and began my fundraising by harrassing my fellow employees, facebook friends, and family. 75 days should be plenty of time to wrangle up $200. Who else is participating? I only saw Steve out there. I'm going to do the 14 mile mountain bike event that they have. I'm assuming it will be Murray Lake.

2011-03-27T20:51:00.004-04:00

Sorry for the delay in getting this post up...I think I finally thawed out (and sobered up) from the frozen 2011 Barry Roubaix. I won't bore you to death with the details of my demise, just wanted throw some props out to everyone who raced and supported the race this weekend. Special thumbs up to our new Team Members David and James for flying the tHD colors and to David especially for finishing his first bike race! All in all, a crazy weekend. I can honestly say that after this one, I was gassed (literally!)

Unfortunately, this wasn't an overly photo-happy trip for me but here are a few shots from the pre and post race festivities! - Steve

Our trusty cross bikes taking a breather in the shadows of the beer silos at Michigan Brewing Company

from left to right Shaun, JRAD, Purple Helmet, David and Hot Dog Himself flashing gang signs in the beer tent

Hot Dog doing his best "Cornholio" impression before the big race

Couple More Snaps From Yesterday

2011-03-20T13:04:00.008-04:00

Here are a few more shots I took from yesterday's first HD ride of the year. Good times for sure, hopefully we all get back out there again real soon!

David on the climb

Tim learning the hard way what 8% is all about

Coach overlooking spring training

Resting at the top

Cruising through Island Lake

Shaun approves

Great Day for a Ride!

2011-03-19T18:27:00.002-04:00

...and some Buffalo Wild Wings! (edited by Coach)

First Logged Garmin Ride

2011-03-18T17:29:00.002-04:00

I managed to get out and ride today. Nothing fantastic. I just went over to my folks and did a 10 mile ride with my mommy. It counts!

Kensington Rd. Hill Sausagefest

2011-03-15T11:42:00.002-04:00

To help usher in Spring and the 2011 riding season, don your favorite Team Hot Dog sausage casings and join us this Saturday @ 11am @ Kensington Metropark. We'll be starting the suffering at the first large parking lot off the Kensington Road entrance. If you don't know where that is, let me know!

Our goal is to hammer out 30ish miles on mainly paved roads in preparation for Barry-Roubaix. Yes, we will be climbing one of the "Biggest Hills In Michigan", Kensington Road Hill. Road Bike, Cyclocross Bike, Mountain Bike, Recumbents....wait, no Recumbents please! Roll whatever you want, we're not going to be pushing the pace too bad. This will be a no-drop ride so don't worry about being the slow guy....that title is reserved for yours truly.

RSVP in the condiments section below or on our Facebook page so we know to keep our eyes peeled for ya. Keep an eye on the weather as it might change. If we do get rain, we may consider moving it to Sunday....Stay Tuned!

- Coach Steve

A Fat Man on a Little Ride

2011-03-14T19:45:00.003-04:00

Got a chance to get my first ride of the year in outdoors this evening. My gosh the winter has not been kind to me!! I simply did two laps around the lake at Stony, on my trusty steed, Jake the Snake. Why does it seem every spring, my belly stretches that spandex just a tad more? Ugh. Time to right the ship!

Proposed Wuss Training Ride

2011-03-14T10:48:00.002-04:00

I'm doing a Wuss Training ride later this week. Mostly likely I'll go twice because I'm feeling froggy with all the nice weather coming our way. I want to go Thursday afternoon and again over the weekend. This will be a sub 30 mile ride. My plan is to start at Milford MTB trail head at the baseball field. I'll then ride up to the YMCA and take the paved pathway around hubble pond, along the huron river and into kennsington where I'll then ride around Kent Lake and make my way back to the trailhead where I parked. I'm not sure how many miles this will amount to. My goal was something around Barry Roubaix distance and this should be about right. I am doing the 23miler after all. I suspect this ride will be right around 25. Anyone who wants to tag along let me know. Or if you have better plans for a weekend ride let me know as well. I'm a hot mess so if it's over 30 I'll probably need an adrenaline shot at about 15 miles.

A Sunday In the Park

2011-03-13T19:23:00.004-04:00

Well since it seems as if Steve and JRAD were doing their best imitation of snobby elitist roadies today. Below is a reconnaissance photo I got from Steve and JRAD's ride. Notice the shaving of the legs and the skin suits obvious signs of their transgression to the dark side.

This left me to rolling my knobby tired one geared bike by myself. I left out of my drive way today with the hopes of getting in 40 miles. I grabbed the wife's Garmin, strapped it on, and off I went into the beautiful Sunday weather. The Weather Channel promised me a peak of sun and a high temperature of 37, my ass. What I found was cold weather and at times I was pelted with ice pellets and no sun. Not many people were out to brave the elements except for the die hard tennis players that I saw at the West Bloomfield hunt Club.

Here you see a young lady having to clear the snow from the court before she could start her match.

Once clear the action began

The only other highlight to the ride was being buzzed by the West Bloomfield SUV police cruiser

All in all I put in just a hair under the 40 miles (37.22) that I was shooting for. I somehow only managed 550 feet of elevation gain. Damn Michigan is flat. Somehow I need to find the 2200 feet of climbing that is promised at Barry.

By the way don't forget to sign up for Grab an Ass Week on facebook.

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/event.php?eid=122850304427097&index=1

A Couple of Hot Dogs And Some Heinz...I mean Hines

2011-03-13T18:10:00.005-04:00

Met up for JRAD for some Barry Roubaix "training." We decided to roll down the I-275 pathway out to Hines Drive. We planned to keep going until we hit 18 miles on our garmin, then roll back to the car. I was excited to hit the 275 pathway since I haven't been on it since my folks, sister and I would cruise it WAY back in the day.

The path was in real good shape with only a few downed trees and snowbank obstacles. When we got on Hines, the road was mostly dry and surprisingly void of any cycling traffic. At the turnaround spot about 18 miles in, the wind kicked up and I slipped into a deep and dark place in my mind. My quads were on fire and my calves felt like they were going to burst. I shoved a whole packet of frozen Cliff Bloks in my pie-hole and kept pedaling until I was able to focus again but it was over with...I felt cooked.

We decided to roll back through Northville for a change of scenery and I reluctantly agreed to follow along. The last section of Hines Drive had what must have been one of the biggest hills in Michigan on it. All I remember was seeing JRAD take off like a friggin' rocket and I was left in the dust. Thank goodness for granny gear and no traffic because I really felt like throwing myself in the way of oncoming traffic at this point.

Somehow, we made it back to the car...I think I blacked out for a few miles. Amazed that I just went from winter-couch-potato to pedaling 37 miles, I was pretty proud of my accomplishment. In celebration and in true Team Hot Dog fashion, the wife and I hit up Buffalo Wild Wings for dinner and Dairy Queen for some dessert.

Roadhouse,
Steve

Copter Dogs

2011-03-08T17:34:00.002-05:00

A few hot dogs playing with a remote control copter at the spandex party over the weekend:

2011 tHD Jersey Party

2011-03-06T20:17:00.006-05:00

If I had just one photo to sum up the 2011 Team Hot Dog Jersey Party, it would be this one..

If I had two photos to sum up the 2011 Team Hot Dog Jersey Party, it would include this one...

But seriously, we really didn't need to crack open the 151...Anyways, Thanks to Hot Dog for having us over and sharing his bountiful harvest of hot dogs and Coors Light and Cheers to a great 2011 Cycling season!

- Coach Steve

Sunday Gathering Anyone?

2011-03-02T20:55:00.003-05:00

Steve and I discussed it, and I'd like to open up my crib and invite you all over Sunday afternoon. Everyone's welcome to come on by, pick up your gear, and I'll have some beers on hand. We can think of something to do food wise if you all like too. The 12 oz curls will be good training for Barry Roubaix in a few weeks.

Mrs. Hot Dog will be out for the day, so I will have the place all to myself. I was thinking of having you all over around 1pm or so if that is ok? Let me know if you guys are down for this, and I can e-mail you out my address and stuff if you don't already have it.

For those of you who can't make it, I can either mail you your gear, or, Steve or someone else who may see you more often can drop it off. We will figure something out.

Hope things are well. Hope to hear from and see you soon. Peace.

Jerseys and T's are Ready!!

2011-02-28T20:49:00.004-05:00

Dude. Our orders have come in! The t-shirts came in Friday, jerseys arrived today! I must say, everything came out even better than I would have thought. I am one happy hot dog. Below are a few shots of the new digs:

Jersey Front

T Front

Jersey Back

How do you guys want to go about retrieving your stuff? I'm willing to host a small party this weekend if you are willing to drive over to the east side of town. I can make sure to have drinks and food ready to go. Or, Steve can have a get together? Or, we can just pass this stuff out as its convenient for everyone? Let me know what you think.

If you haven't made arrangements to pay me, please plan on doing so so you can get your gear!

I swear, it feels like the riding season will never get here. This winter just won't end!

Happy Birthday, David!

2011-02-27T07:53:00.003-05:00

On behalf of my fellow Cycling Wieners, I would like to wish our newest tHD member a Happy Birthday! May your day be filled with gifts of bike parts and mass quantities of beer!

Mid Winter Surprise

2011-02-24T19:58:00.005-05:00

Well, mail has been rolling into ol HD HQ for the jerseys and t-shirts. If you've sent your payment in, I appreciate it. If you haven't, pay up sucker! Check out Coach's e-mail regarding what you owe.

Special props to Jrad for adding this little surpise to his payment:

Hang in there fellas. We're just about out of the heart of winter. Pretty soon, the snow will melt, temps will consistently hang above 30, birds will chirp, our beer bellys will shrink, and we'll be able to ride again in our hot dog casings.

Untill next time. Lots of love,
hd

Righting The Ship

2011-02-19T01:53:00.009-05:00

Not to get all nautical on everyone, but this is the only way I can describe what needs to be done soon or I might as well give up. I have made an unconscious decision to make some changes after consuming 7 beers Thursday night, comprised of the following.

One of these. The Frost Brewed Liner is like a Thin Candy Shell!

Three of these!

And three of these to finish myself and the night off!

Although I was feeling like a hundred dollars during my consumption and actually was able to sleep through the night for the first time in a while, the decision came to mind that I better make some changes.

And... These changes better come soon fo sho.

Although I really do not drink much, The eating and lack of exercise has gotten out of hand.

During the above consumption, I made a decision that some things need to change.

1. Get some self control and watch what I eat.

2. Drink a little less beer. You all know I love beer, so I cannot quit totally!

3. Get back into the gym, spin classes and actually go to hockey instead of being lazy.

4. Not worry about the stress created by my job/workplace.

So Anyways.... It is time to get back on track or this coming riding season is going to be a SUFFERFEST for me.

Cheers to getting rid of this shitty ass Michigan winter.

In the immortal words of Charlie Sheen.

BRING IT!

Brains!

2011-02-13T14:28:00.006-05:00

It's been a long month away from my newly acquired Epic 29er. While she was back at Specialized H.Q. receiving a brain transplant, I sat at home alone dreaming of warmer weather and the good times we would have when we were to be reunited. One night, things got so bad that I caught myself reading the Specialized Bicycle Owners Manual, GAH!!! After a few stiff drinks and a self-inflicted slap in the face, I quickly came back to my senses.

Eventually, I got the call from my Cycletherapists that my fork had come back from its brain surgery and I could come and pick it up! I spent the first evening getting reacquainted with my two-brained beauty by giving her some new Shimano XT SPD pedals. The wife was a little suspicious of the grunting that was going on in the basement but I assured her that they came from extracting the cheap-azz basket-pedals that were superglued onto the bike and I had the scars to prove it!

Jrad was in the area on Saturday so he decided to swing by and check out the bike for the first time. We decided to install the new hydration system that I picked up from VelEau. When I first saw this system, I was eager to test it out to see if there was a way to eliminate the need for a camelback on longer rides/races.

The setup was super simple, minus a moment involving the buckle on the seat bag that made me wish I had a brain of my own! I think overall, it took us 5 minutes to setup and tweak. I`m really looking forward to doing some longer rides and testing this setup out. The biggest bonus is taking some of that weight of the camelback off my back.

Anyhow, it looks like things are starting to warm up slightly. Barry Roubaix is creeping up on us fast so stay tuned to the blog for some tHD training ride announcements!

Think Spring!

- Steve