A few images from Lincoln

PCL=FUN

The first PCL event of the year took place Saturday,with forty folks on cycles meeting at CB's D St. Crib. Scott and I pedaled to Lincoln Friday evening and had a ball. BTW, It was Scott's first human powered  trip to Lincoln, next time you see him give him a high five and a box of girl scout cookies. (Oh, and he did it with one gear.)

After an evening of chatter with friends at YiaYia's followed by Ivanna Cone, Scott and I awoke to egg sandwiches and  the "Miracle Drug"called coffee. All fixed up by Scott's brother Luke. Making our initial rotations & feeling the perfect morning temperature, we had a sneaking suspicion the day would be epic.

When I approached the D Street Hotel, bicycles were scattered in every nook and cranny. Leaned against mailboxes, bushes and bricks. It was reminiscent of a  fraternity house party, but instead of drunk folk it was bike folk. (which I prefer)Walking inside was pure delight meeting & greeting the owners of the scattered steeds. Shortly after entering and scouring the white elephant gift table, we located our other Pedal Omaha brethren Rafal and Douglas. 

Minutes later the group rolls down A Street further west towards our turn around point at Malcom. We  all pedaled together until the rollers were in sight, I was getting antsy and wanted to stir things up a bit so I slammed into a slight hill and begged folks to follow. And Follow they did. All of the sudden there were five guys right beside me pacing on gravel. SWEET!

Not really desiring to blow the legs up, I hung back and was riding solo for a bit. After too much solitude I slowed until the next few riders could catch. It was KW and some other guy whose name I forgot. We stayed together until Malcom where we bought our lotto tix, then proceeded with the gas station routine of piss,rehydrate,refuel & a lil conversation. It was Swell!

Most of the group stayed together on the march back to Lincoln. I loved getting the opportunity to chat & pedal with several Lincoln-ites ... Jesse,Woodman,Cornbread,Wills, Bonsall, Gersib & Ortiz to name a few. Definitely planning on doing as many PCL rides as possible. They know how to have a good time, and I can't wait for more LINOMA hookups in the future.

I can already smell that Sunday Morning Bacon.

Saturday ride with Lincoln's Pirate Cycling League

Come on out and play Omaha Bike Mafia (aka Pedal-Omaha)! We're meeting at Hwy-50 & I-80 (McDonalds) at 7:30 AM and will carpool / caravan to Lincoln to join our brothers and sisters in the Cap City on their L-M-L ride. Ride starts at 9:00am. Looks to be a good time. And you can become an instant millionaire too! So far the group is myself, RD and 2sean9er. We need more peeps to represent the big 'O'. Who's in? We'll have plenty of room for transporting bodies and bikes. Just speak up.

Their web site.

Bicycling as Commuting

A friend of mine sent this to me and wanted to get the word out…

Bicycling as Commuting
7pm
Thursday, March 26, 2009
First United Methodist Church, 69th & Cass Streets, Omaha (enter north door education wing)

Do you want to cut your carbon footprint, and get more physically active at the same time? Help reduce traffic congestion, and help reduce our dependence on foreign oil? Have you considered making bicycling part of your routine? Perhaps even your main mode of transportation?

We'll be discussing bicycling as a means of commuting at our March 26 program. We've got a great group of speakers to let you know what is happening in Omaha to make cycling safer and more reliable as a means of getting around town. And these experienced cyclists can give tips on what you need to know if you want to ride smart and ride safe.

Our speakers are leaders with Activate Omaha and Bikeable Communities! and include:

• Marty Shukert, principal with RDG Planning and Design, and former Director, City of Omaha Planning Department;
• Stuart Shell, also with RDG, and board member of the Community Bike Shop;
• Kerri Peterson, executive Director of Our Healthy Communities Partnership;
• Kent McNeill, founder and owner of Highgear and Trek Bicycle Stores.

Our speakers are avid cyclists who will describe the progress Omaha is making towards becoming a bicycle friendly community. We'll hear about the 20-mile loop program, which has the goal of getting 20 miles of designated bike lanes in the downtown and midtown area, focused on getting east/west routes. We'll learn about factors to consider in choosing cycling as your main means of transportation, strategies to take with different types of roads, and tips to help you arrive at your destination safely.

Come to our March program to find out what you can do to increase your cycling miles while staying safe.

Sierra Club programs are free and open to the public. For more information, contact Mary Green at 556-1830, or mary.green(at)nebraska(dot)sierraclub(dot) org

Live Green,

Daniel J. Lawse, Co-Chair
Green Omaha Coalition | Green Neighborhood Council
www.greenomahacoalition.org

Cross Checked'

Finished the new steed, here are some pics.

Another try

So the much to do about CIRREM didn't happened(looking at the pictures it was right call). Rain crappy weather made that decision easy enough. This weekend looks a lot better and much drier with two offerings for you

• March 14th PCL's Lincoln-Milford-Lincoln
• March 15th MTB Enduro

I will be going Sunday or Saturday, if any one wants to go let me know.( 2-3 people) This one should be less stressful one week of DST under a belts. Cross bikes are welcomed at both events. Who knows maybe someone will not be guarding their Fargo :) and maybe I can use my quote I used on EB. just kidding just kidding...

What the Fork?

This Happened Today Pedaling From Communication Law Class.

Anyone Out there Got an Extra Fork?

Good Stuff to Chew on!

Read It!

Ride It!

More Master Plan meetings coming soon...

http://www.ci.omaha.ne.us/planning/Long%20Range/Downtown%20Plan/HDR%20Charrette%20Write-Up.pdf

Dirty Good Weather

You should see the other guy.

Amazing Sock Deal!

Get it while it's hot! Make sure you have them by the weekend too!

Community Bicycle Shop Open House!

If you have an interest in bicycles, stop by the Community Bicycle Shop for an open house!

Perhaps you might even consider becoming a volunteer...

Start Time: Saturday, March 21 at 4:00pm
End Time: Saturday, March 21 at 6:00pm
Where: 525 North 33rd Street

Vintage Colnago

I was hanging in Coffee Slingers in downtown OKC yesterday morning. It's next to my favorite bike shop, Bicycle Alley. All of a sudden I get a tap on my shoulder. It's Tyler from the shop. They just had a guy bring in an old Colnago for a tune up. It was given to him.

Tyler wanted me to take photos of it. So I went home, got my gear and came back. I was shocked at what I saw.

I'll let the photos say the rest.....

We'll Always Have Bicycles.

We all have heard and reheard about the economy, stimulus this and bailout that.Whether we like it or not we are in a recession. For myself in my 24 year old shoes it hadn't really affected me yet.(or hit home so to speak) My money was still spent at coffee houses, bicycle shops, bakeries and the occasional trip to the cinema.

I just found out about this, which affected one of our own.

Go Pedal with him these next few days. Enjoy life.

No one can take your bikes from you, and what you experience while pedaling...No matter how bad the economy gets.

CIRREM

Currently I believe that the Douglas and I are the only people interested in going Sunday morning. If you like to tag along feel free to drop me an email at rafald1 (at) yahoo (dot) com. It should be pretty good times. Leaving early Sunday morning from my house...

Dirty Wicked Picturesque

There is a dog howling in the basement apartment. It makes me want to pour boiling water in my ears. I hate the people that live there just because they are them.

Here's the goods.

Jive

In the works....

Mark your calendars for Saturday April 11th. I'm working on an Easter alleycat "style" race that will blow your mind....and quads!

Blogspot can be located HERE.

I'll be looking for 3-4 volunteers who don't want to race.

Awards for Fixed/SS and Geared.

Details forthcoming...

29er Warm Up at the Blue Line

-- Post From My iPhone

The Future of Good Times

MOOBBER (Moo•Ber): Mother of Omaha Brewery Bicycle Enthusiasts Ride. T-Shirts to come!

This ride was an idea sprouted from my head and Eric's during a local feast at the 115 I believe. It's simple really: Start down town and hit up every local brewery in the Omaha Metro.

Upstream Downtown : Nebraska Brewing Company : Lazlos : Upstream West : Granite City

Mother of Omaha Bicycle Brewery Enthusiasts Ride

Share your bike routes @ Bikely.com

I was just told about another place in Rockbrook that brews their own beer (Wouldn't be hard to alter the route). I can't remember the name. I also thought a stop at Blue Line Dundee would be in order before returning down town to bask and drink more brew.

I wanted to post this ride early without a set time because it's still up for change. We are talking about quite a journey here. I Bikely'd it at 60 miles right now. F#cking Stellar! Anything we add to this will make it ever more impressive. Urban riding, concrete trails, open roads, beer. It has it all. Only the strong and lush need apply. This could be the big one. Anyone know of any brewery houses in CB?

I am proposing a 1 to 2 beer limit per stop and the need to probably start around noon is to the utmost important. Start saving your pennies, there will be the need to buy some beer and food during this ride that won't be PBR priced. We could wear suits too. 

Saturday Stache Bash.

Dirty Wicked Moustache Tour 2009

It's gonna be one spicy meatball. 

And, an excellent ride to meet fellow pedalers in the Omaha/Lincoln area.

All I gotta say is Hickory, Dickory Dock.... I'll see you at the Top.

Google Maps Petition

I know we focus a lot (as we should!) on local efforts, but here is a national effort worth checking out: http://www.petitiononline.com/bikether/petition.html

"We would like a 'Bike There' feature added to Google Maps - to go with the current 'Drive There' and 'Take Public Transit' options.

The feature would take into account actual bicycle lanes from the locality being mapped, and it would automatically plan a route for a bicyclist, possibly even providing the cyclist options for either the most direct route, or the most bicycle-friendly (safest) route. The Google Maps-based third party site, byCycle.org (http://byCycle.org/), provides these features for two metro areas - Portland, Oregon and Madison, Wisconsin, and there are countless other mapping initiatives around the world aimed at accomplishing the same goal. We hope that Google will consider building this feature into the core Google Maps service.

There are many reasons why this feature would be a wonderful edition to Google Maps. Among them, some of the most influential would be to:
* Make bicycling safer for millions of bicyclists around the world.
* Empower world citizens to better adapt their lifestyles to face the challenges of global climate change.
* Help Google realize its core mission of 'organizing the world's information and making it universally accessible and useful.'

Where They Stand: The Transportation Question

With our city's mayoral election coming up (April 7th & May 12th), do we know where the candidates stand on the transportation issue? With our city possibly receiving transportation "stimulus" money, the growth of Activate Omaha and recent Downtown Master Plan I believe it's in our best interest to ask the candidates where they stand on this issue. Perhaps we ask each of the top dogs, or at least voice our concerns. This can be done within the links below.

Hal Daub
Jim Suttle
Jim Vokal

Omaha Bicyclist Injured In Collision With Car

From WOWT news:

A man riding a bicycle was injured Wednesday night when he was hit by a car at Northwest Radial Highway and Hamilton.

Witnesses told Channel 6 News and police the car had the right-of-way. The impact sent the man and his bike flying into another car before landing about 20 feet away. The first car's windshield was smashed. The driver said she did not see him crossing the road. The crash happened at 7:10pm.

Witnesses said the bicyclist, 34-year old Martin Sojka, who was not wearing a helmet, was conscious and alert when transported to the hospital with a laceration to the head. His injuries aren't considered life-threatening.

The drivers of the two cars were not cited.

Watch for comments on the WOWT story here.

From KMTV news:

Omaha, NE - Medics rush a seriously hurt bike rider to the hospital. Omaha Police investigators tell Action 3 News that 34-year old Martin Sojka was riding his bike near Northwest Radial and Hamilton Street when he crossed an intersection against a red light.

A car slammed into Sojka's bike, sending him flying into the air. He then fell onto another car in the next lane. Medics and cops rushed to the intersection to save Sojka. They were even forced to shut down part of Northwest Radial.

Although the bike rider went to a hospital in serious condition, police believe he will survive his injuries. They say he was not wearing a helmet and admitted to drinking alcohol before the crash.

Police say they are not ticketing the drivers of the two cars.

Reported by Molli Graham, mgraham@action3news.com

There's a video report here: KMTV report

"Confessions of a pedal-phile" - Omaha Cyclist OP/ED Story In UNO Gateway

I came across Eric Brunt's article linked to from Commute By Bike. Way to go, Eric!

Fat Tuesday Ride of Joy

Thought I'd quickly pull this ride info out of the thread and push it from here. 

This just happens to be a Tuesday. I condemn most accounts of this day's events as a whole. 

We are looking at 4ish from 114 on the Three Five street. We can either keep it in town on the Boulevard loop(~30 miles) or head out on some more open roads. We will hit the rush traffic either way. Bring tail lights for sure. 

I will ride, but I'd like to be able to hit the gym by 6 or so so I can go get some exercise? 

The Douglas, EB + 1, Lucassclown, Johnny, and change. Holler back.

Post preferences on where to ride so we can plan accordingly. I need to take the 35cs off the SS if we stay in town.

It will be good to get my sun on. 

Things to come in near future

The warmer weather is right around the corner soon it will not take 20 minutes to find all your winter gear, get ready and bike... Yes spring will be glorious I just know it. Here are some of the events next two weeks to keep an eye on/participate if you are interested.

• 2009er this Saturday 6 pm this should be a lot of fun bring your sweet stache
• THOR meeting Sunday (if you would like to help up building and upkeep of singletrack in Omaha metro area this is the place, we always need volunteers)
• CIRREM in DES Moines on March 8 2009 (60 mile gravel grinder)
• MTB Enduro In Panama, NE March 15 2009 (togas not required just watch your back) Cornbread says bring a cross bike (thanks man)
  
• Don't Forget about the Pirate Cycling League, & this little Gem.

I know, what you thinking, curious reader " Rafal, Des Moines and Panama are lands far far away... how are we going to get there?"
Don't you worry curious soul I have an answer for you.
I would like to go to both events (how does this relate to you... keep reading) most likely I will be driving to both of them, If anyone is interested in going to either/both of these events please let me know. Seating is limited to 2-3 additional people. This depends on how creative I can get with bike racks... How do you jump aboard this train (ehherere car) you probably can talk to me about these matters Saturday..
I hope to see most/all of you Saturday.
I would also encourage you to attend THOR meeting. Trails don't build themselves..
Regardless it's FAT TUESDAY go and enjoy yourself

Love - Hate : What's your purpose?

A conversation I shared with EB a while back revealed his purpose behind Pedal-Omaha. It's intended purpose was to bring ALL cyclists together as one collective voice, but with varying perspectives. As EB titled this Blog...a place for roadies, dirties, commuties and cuties. Regardless where we live or what we ride we all need to come together as a community of cyclists who want change. I'm an opinionated person and I respect others opinions even when they don't mesh with mine. I also like to see people who express themselves directly and aren't afraid to ruffle others feathers. It's this Love / Hate passion that keeps the fire in our belly. However, there is one thing that can be counterproductive and set us back, and that is pinning cyclist against cyclist.

Cold As Ice

Twas a Killer Sunday to Pedal.

Cold.

Pedal Downtown                         

Solution: bike.

pedal.

Oatmeal Times

"It sure looks nice out today." I said in my pillow laden head. 

That didn't stop me from rolling back over in an attempt to sleep past 0830. I managed 0900 with my cat padding at my ears and stepping on that soft spot below my Adam's apple. Who teaches cats that shit? How do they know how to f#ck with you so easily?

Anyway. It's not warm out. It's a false sense with that clear sky and shining Sun. Nice weather is coming tho. I can tell. The Mutual of Omaha building no longer blocks the sun from coming in thru my kitchen door for a short period in the morning before it reemerges on the other side. It's passing over the top of it, getting higher in the sky as the earth comes back into that warmer axis. Sweet. 

A beer mug filled with black coffee and oatmeal for breakfast here. I wanna hear other people's oatmeal love affairs. Here's my consistency today:

Oatmeal (Bam!)

Peanut butter

Mixed dried fruit. (If you add it when the water is still boiling towards the end, the fruit plumps back up!)

Pecans -- Oh boy. Oh boy. Oh boy. 

Brown sugar

All together now. Stir that shit. Consume.

Random Pimping: So my brother is a Chef and he has recently started a blog telling of his endeavors and he even shares recipes on it. My fat belly can concur that it's all really good-- the coleslaw could get you chicks if you weren't wearing that helmet. Get a chance, get a coffee, get over to Panda Ass Culinary Project. He's just getting into it, but he's entertaining and may even be down to give you free food if you follow his blog. (I am making this up on the spot, but it's in the cards.) Let's get him to get off his butt and write more. He rode to work before they'd make him go get 175 pounds of potatoes during his work day. Damn the man!

One To Remember

What a Wondrous week!

Thanks to all of the "hipsters" (as the OWH reporter Maggie O'Brien so eloquently put it) who came to that historic meeting Wednesday.

Twas pretty spectacular to fill the entire front row of people who Pedal.

Notice all of the media photos didn't include us 2nd class citizens. Scott Redd was our one true hope to garner the attention of the fat cats who believe a streetcar is the yellow brick road to happiness. I find it hilarious, we can't even get folks to ride the MAT, now they push for a bus on rails. I realize this is looking at the next 30 or heck even 50 years, but it seems like quite a bit of $ moolah as my Pops would say.

There was plenty of good that happened Wednesday, specifically how the general public viewed cycling as transportation and the desire to change and implement new diverse strategies to make Downtown Omaha change.

It was refreshing to see folks in suits that will never straddle a top tube say that Omaha isn't bike friendly, and lobby for bicycle lanes in our streets. That made me want to dance and sing river dance style. (and trust me I did plenty of that)

Weekend Happenings:

• Cassevetes Series at Film Streams & Oscar Nominated Shorts.
• And Support Local Cinema, Become a Member.
  
• UNO-KANEKO Library Open House Saturday 4-7 p.m.
• Pulp Gallery Opening Friday Night 7pm to 10pm.
  
• Ladyfinger {CD Release Show} Saturday at Slowdown 9 p.m.
• Tour Of Cali on Versus ends, hopefully with a bang.
• Be Sure to Pedal Omaha.

2009 Downtown Omaha Master Plan - People Do Care About Cycling

In the photograph, the number of red dots signify votes by people on what some of downtown Omaha's weaknesses are. You can see that a large number of people present at the 2009 Downtown Omaha Master Planning public meeting care about bike issues.

With any luck, all of the focus put on cycling issues at this meeting will garner some action as the city moves forward in implementing its master plan for downtown Omaha.

For more information and some photos, visit the article at Bike Omaha.

Bike and Art Opportunity!

A friend of mine forwarded this to me...looks pretty cool!

If you like riding bikes and know an artist, then this may be for you.

Get Ready To Chuckle

Lucas notified me of this.
Read it all if you have the luxury of time, or else skip to the last line!

Call to Action! We need riders...

This Wednesday February 18th is the Master Plan meeting at Embassy Suites where the City Planning Department is seeking input on Omaha's future downtown development. The meeting starts at 6:00 PM. I suggested in Biker Bob's post that we meet before attending the meeting. Very few have responded so far. If only a handful of us show up we won't be taken seriously if we try and have a voice in future development. Do you want bike lanes? More bike racks? Blue boxes at intersections? Pedicabs rather than a stupid trolley? Then show the phuck up and speak your mind! Even though I don't ride downtown very often I'm still willing to play my part in helping improve Omaha's cycle'ability in downtown. Did I happen to mention the Omaha Weird Herald will be there? The reporter covering this is a friend of mine and I'm willing to bet we can slant this our way IF we do it right.

Who's with me? Bob and RD have responded so far. Where's everyone else?

For those who can attend a pre-meeting, meeting let's meet at the Blue Line at 5:00 PM. We can then pedal off to the Embassy at 5:45. For those who can't attend the pre-meeting then plan on meeting us along the way OR at the meeting itself. We Need People To Show!

EB: can you cross post this in your circle-of-friends blogs?

Planting the seed for the upcoming season

I was wanting to organize an alleycat race for this late spring. Anyone interested in helping out? Tips on where to start? Maybe get the Lincoln crowd involved in the actual race? Thoughts?




Sorry no sound. But a good movie non-the-less.

Because I can...

So I thought about hand delivering my rent next month to my Landlord. He lives in Waterloo. I decided to rough plot a route to his house. It'd make a good trip going right over 50 miles. That means it'd be suitable for either a ride or my completion of the ultra I still wanna run. This is looking viable with my current plan to run that distance within the next couple weeks. 

I was going to do this tomorrow, but I remembered I have some work to do. So I think it will have to wait until next month. It could definitely be extended or mad more interesting. Also, has anyone jumped on any gravel lately? Is the snow like we have now even passible on gravel? 

On another note, it'd be fun to do some river crossings on bikes. Like take off your clothes and mount them to the bike and carry it above your head like it was your M16 crossing a jungle river in 'Nam. I need a sandwich. 

Iowa Paved Trails

Yeah, they (trails) got a name, but I don't know 'em. Crossed over into Iowa tonight (0145) to burn off some 'love steam' but the parks system did a piss poor job of clearing the concrete. Actually, 'clearing them' does not even fit into a rightful way to describe them. They are nearly impassible by bike - with any sort of efficiency. So much for my late night Manawa ice rendezvous. No way I am riding streets with all them crazy four wheelers with wrecked hearts. 

Random Advice: Use rechargeable batteries in all your riding lights.

Moral: Don't try to ride the trails on the other side of the bridge.

Answer to statement: "Try a car."

Statement: "Lucas has slim chances of taking home a Valentine on his bicycle."

It's a deep burn! Cut's down and shivers me timbers. 

Friday the 13th Glee

Any of you that managed to get out yesterday know how much fun it was (is) to be about. I commend your forward progress into idiots-ville! Road conditions were actually pretty good, people would stop in their tracks and stare as you pedal by and I believe I even saw one person taking photos of EB and I while at a stop light. Awesome.

The bicycle is really a beautiful thing. I wish I could have seen myself and anyone else in this snow, it was memorable just looking at my feet.

Such an adventure it turned into! Every block a new puzzle, every corner another possibility. The serenity, the beauty, the struggle, the true feeling of earning a cup of coffee or a pastry. Life can seem so simple.

With only a front brake that only worked on a slightly more than psychological level, I learned how to turn (and go in a straight line) like a motocross rider. Also, skiing your foot really gives you a lot of control, and turning your foot out then pushing it into a drift works like magic to decrease speed. 

I got hit and knocked down by a light tracked snow removal vehicle while riding thru campus. Campus was closed, so the bloke was probably used to not seeing anyone, and when I met up with him I braked and waited then he turned and I really thought I saw him see me. Then he backed right into me and pushed me into some large construction barriers. 

He didn't stop until EB started banging on his cute little snow tank. He was completely oblivious and we'll just leave it by saying that I was really wary of snow plows the rest of the day. 

Goldsprints and other shenanigans

While being punished on the hills of northwest Omaha yesterday with EB we talked about our hopes of making Omaha a more interesting place to cycle, or at least party with a bike. One thing I've been working on, but have made very little progress is building a Goldsprints setup. I've been shopping craigslist for months for cheap sets of rollers and have come across very few possibilities. One other issue keeping me from pursuing this more aggressively is the lack of a venue to hold Goldsprints events. EB mentioned that the Slowdown may be open to something like this. He's checking. What I need from the rest of you is leads on cheap rollers and cheap bikes to build as SS/Fixed. Maybe a bike shop would sponsor this setup and parts? Once we get moving on this we'll also need a tech-wizz who can wire the machines to feed into a laptop, which will be projected onto a backdrop. This all takes money and time, so I need as many interested parties to help put this thing together. If there's no interest then I'll let it die. Got anything to add? Speak up!

On another note...did you know it's the end of the world? Apparently this latest round of winter weather has Omaha in gridlock. Schools and businesses closing. Local news pushing this story as if the sky were falling. Besides the normal amount of stupid comments I get when arriving at work by bike, this morning I was greeted with a half dozen comments and questions about how I was going to get home. "It's a blizzard out there!" one half-whit mentioned. Well...let's see. I rode my bike to work. I'll ride my bike home. The troglodytes seemed confused by the thought of riding a bicycle in the snow. Batten down the hatches!!! The snow is falling, the snow is falling!

Rocky Raccoon Recaps

I figured I'd post here to give some peeps some reading material if they so desired. I know many of you already read up, but here it is anyway.

Oklahoma Andy and his Ultra Recap

Lucas (I can't lift my knees) and his post. 

Last Chance Ride: Thursday 9 AM.

I know this is an odd time to ride for those who have a 9-5, M-F schedule, but for those who have odd schedules like myself, EB and Lucas, we're meeting at Crane Coffee at 76th and Cass for a 2.5 hour road ride. We're meeting at 9:00 AM and plan to hit the roads north of town around Ft. Calhoun. Hills baby!

Anyone interested just show up at Crane Coffee. Looking at the weather forecast this may be the last chance to ride on semi-clean roads for a while. So why not burn a vacation day and join us.

Classifieds: TT / Triathlon bike 4-sale

Following Erik's lead, I've posted my own item for sale.
Click on title to be directed to my cycling-stuff-4-sale blog.

Bitten By A Dog!

Those of you who may happen across the Redd-Shift blog may know that I write glowingly about the urban cycling trails such as the Turner Boulevard Trail and the Field Club Trail.

I believe these trails are important to enticing would-be commuter and utility cyclists to experiment with going to real destinations by bicycle. I think they are also important in enhancing Omaha's urban neighborhoods by continuing the original boulevard system via trails that get people out into their neighborhoods.

As an aside, I will say that it's ironic that the original boulevard system was designed to allow motorists a way to enjoy a scenic drive through the city, and now we are looking at incorporating bicycles into the original routes.

However, today I am going to gripe a little bit. While I could drone on about some negative experiences I had on the trail today concerning inconsiderate teenagers, careless dog walkers, and other unfriendly persons brought outdoors to enjoy the springlike weather, I don't want to drag it down that far. Instead, I will just focus on the dog bite.

This is a first for me. I'd heard about it, but like so many things, figured it would never happen to me. However, as I rode down the Turner Boulevard Trail, I came across some young ones playing in a wagon. I think one kid was pulling another while a dog chased them. Rather than get out of the way, they toppled the wagon and fell out of it in front of me. I dodged the wagon, the dog started barking and chasing me. Then it bit at my feet and tore my wool sock with an audible ripping sound.

Dang, these were my favorite socks, and my only wool socks. I didn't have the time or room to unclip and shoo (kick) at it, and was just focused at getting away from the dog. I could hear the kid's parents yelling, and wasn't sure if they were yelling at the dog, the kids, or at me (it's probably my fault, right?), so I just wanted to keep moving.

After I got home, I noticed that skin was broken, and my ankle was bleeding a bit. I washed it off with soap and water and hydrogen peroxide. Hopefully I won't start foaming at the mouth or turn into some kind of zombie dog or anything nasty like that.

Please write in the comments about your own dog stories. I'd be curious to hear what kind of stories you can come up with, with an emphasis on evasion or prevention techniques.

Opportunity for Change

Bob just sent this to me via e-mail and posted it here on Bike Omaha.

Lets Make it Happen!

Word back from the World Herald

I had a conversation this morning with a reporter with the OWH. My pitch to the Herald was to have an article printed about bicycle transportation around Omaha and the growing number of bike commuters and the safety issues we face. To make this story even more appealing was the stimulus package and the billions set aside for alternative transportation infrastructure. Nebraska is rumored to get roughly 300+ Million. Also playing a part in this story would be Activate Omaha's work in developing a 20-mile "bike friendly" east/west route from Midtown to downtown. The last tempting tidbit was a snippet about EB and his year-round pedaling and delivery for JJ's. The reporter I spoke to said the story does sound interesting but would be better suited for Spring print. I was told I would be contacted if/when the time was right. Fingers crossed we'll get some print on what we're doing out there. Until then I suggest we follow EB's advice and start sending in more articles to the Public Pulse. Squeaky wheel theory.

Prospective partnership between MAT and UNO awaits funding - News

Prospective partnership between MAT and UNO awaits funding - News

This could be a great service for UNO students, especially since the addition of bike-racks on MAT buses. Anyone out there know anything more about this? Specifically if they are still considering it?
I plan to do more research as well as contact MAT.

In unrelated news, its stinking blustery out there.

Hope y'all had a fun day on two -wheels.

Back to the Grind.

Mother Nature, you evil temptress!

I don’t know about you blokes, but I have a love-hate relationship with Mother N. This bout of warm weather is a nice break, but I fear what’s around the corner. This morning while riding to work in a single long sleeve jersey, splashing in puddles like a 4-year old, I lost track that it is February. As the southerly wind hit my face I noticed the sting of cold air was missing and was replaced with the fresh smell of leaves and dusty rain. Although I was enjoying the ride immensely I couldn’t help but wonder what’s in store. Similar to dating that popular hot chick in high school. You know the relationship won’t last long before she leaves you. She’s just a tease. Try to enjoy her while you can. And just like that popular hot chick, when she’s gone you’re left wondering if you would have been better off never meeting her. When the real February returns I’ll curse these warm days for what they’ve done to me.

Open call to Northwest suburban rebels. If you live in the N/W side of town and ever want to get out on the road, or gravel, holla back at cyclekraft(at)gmail(dot)com. I’m off work Wednesday and Thursday this week and need to get some mileage in my legs.

West coast connection

This pedal thing is not limited to Omaha, Here is some love from my buddy Brandon and their posse from Seattle. Keeping it real

No Rocks, Unseen Raccoons.

It's a good thing really. The trail for tomorrow's race is gonna be super buttery and no hills compared to Omaha. The one issue -- It's supposed to be in the high 70s, but it will be windy. Now normally that would blow (he he) but it's completely wooded, so it should just give a good breeze. It's gonna be warm tho!

 Oklahoma Andy and I cruised down to Dallas last night, and then down to Huntsville today. We had a chill morning in Dallas. We checked out some sweet shopping at Luke's Closet -- Probably the best running store I've ever been in and a sweet little cycle shop. (Did anyone know that Schwinn still makes bikes?)

Now we are prepping and relaxing for tomorrow. Gonna hit the bed soon -- which I am sharing with Andy! I'm gonna have me some fun. Pretty psyched about the race tomorrow. I have no idea how it's really going to go!

My treasure chest for tomorrow... 

A special thanks to Brian for telling me not to die. The thought did cross my mind! 

Peace and chicken grease.

Saturday Morning Option

If anyone is interested in riding Saturday Morning you just might be in luck. T-bone has paved/gravel/single track option for anyone interested. Here is the tentative plan. Meet up at ped bridge @ 8:30 am ride to Manawa via combination paved/gravel roads Take a spin around manawa single track and head home. Milage should be about 25-30 miles weapons of choice cx/mtb bike. There will be some singletrack action so 28mm slicks might be a bit of a challenge. Get a hold of me if you need any other info.
Toodles... No matter what get out and enjoy the weather... PEDAL

Sensational Saturday Night Special

Yeah you know the drill. 

Time to assemble the Seven Samurai for Saturday night, 

or have the Warriors come out play.

Meet at the House on Paper St.

                  5-ish 

You can bank on street pedaling & parking garage crits

with a dash of the unknown, so just come.

Homework:

 Write the Public Pulse today and give them a tale of a close encounter with an automobile, or what city riding means to you, what more can be done for people to use bikes as transportation, get mad, get sad and write openly and freely. Exposure Baby!

Lastly enjoy the salted debris filled streets this weekend, and be sure to get out and PEDAL!

Weekend's Rideville

Posting photos from last weekend while sitting at Andy's pad down in OKC. I will probably take a ride on his TK2 here in a little bit. Freaking sweet. Weather is balmy and only getting nicer. I just watched 2001 Space Odyssey. I can't say I learned anything from it, but it was worthy. I kinda wish I was high during it. I don't even do drugs, it was just that strange. Perhaps I missed something? My days are numbered when it comes to pain. Separated by hours to what may be a very, very bad idea. Rock Raccoon 50 mile Ultra. As Andy and I chatted, we feel like meager since there is a good deal of people doing a 100 miler as well. Whatever.

Anyway.

This was last night.

These are the photos.

This is me saying TTFN.

Thursday Thrashing

Meet at my place 9 ish.

Pedal around town hitting alleys and secluded streets that are seldom seen by autos.

Coffee included as well

Sound Good?

Round 2...?

The weather gods seem to be smiling on us. Saturday is suppost to be mid 50's!! I know that I was the slow kid on the ride last weekend (and if I didn't thank any of you who stuck with, or came back for me, thank you.) but I had more fun than I ever experienced on a bicycle before saturday (except for one trip on the Taco Ride...). The legs and the mind are feeling good and I was thinking about another adventure. I heed to superior knowledge of the area for route selection, but I would be game for another day of fun and exploration on two wheels.

Think Before you Act

Gosh, wouldn't it be swell if we could do simply that. Here is an article I found about things happening in the world of bicycle transportation.I realize it is not timely news but it has a message to be heard. It's a reminder for us pedal pushers to be cool, calm & collected when a drink is tossed in the direction of your noggin or folks who scream sidewalk at ya from the comfort of their auto.


Tonight Adult Beverages at Darios.
Bueller? Bueller?
They're nice and half-priced for ya.
So yeah, come if you can.
Perhaps we could plan s'more pedal excursions and such.

Accidental Gunshot, Prayer For Josh Beasley

We need to help. 

What can we do for Josh and his family?

Story Here

Just another Manic Monday?

I wish it were Sunday, err Saturday!

The Pedal Excursion was a hoot and a half, from beginning to end.

There will be others, THANKS to all for such a killer day.

I had the time of my life and I owe it all to you.

(And no that's not plagiarism.)

If you want proof this all went down visit Bob, Munson.

Movie night at Film Streams

Students are Free

Just Do It!

Mark your calendars for this little gem, & grow some lip fur.

It's on like Donkey Kong.

Pedal Updates from our Jersey Contingent J-Diddy.

The Offer You Can't Refuse.

This weekend, A pedal excursion is in the works. For many of you out there pedaling pleasure will be had, be it on the pavement, gravel or perhaps your kitchen. Awesome! It's gonna be stellar outside and cycles will be out in droves.

But for our little gang of rag-tag individuals (and hopefully some new faces) The plan still stands Stan. Meet 11am-ish. Downtown Blue Line. Pedal Excursion to Follow. At a nice Chatty-Cathy pace, with sudden bursts of glory because people that commute can be Freaky-Fast as well. And yes, that is a shout out to you Roadies who I'm sure are eager to hit the pavement after all the sweat that has been poured out on top tubes with miles spent in the basement to the tune of old Giro's or the morning traffic report with Jim Siedlicki. 

*Hint Sarcasm.Hint Sarcasm.Hint Sarcasm.*

If you are wise cracker and  enjoy waking up early and stuffing your face with food like most of the general population. Then I cordially invite you over to my humble abode for some hearty eats of the breakfast persuasion. It will most likely be eggs,toast,salted butter,and hash browns. But who knows it could also include hot cross buns or Steel Cut Oats, ( yes I'm talking to you Brady of Steel) so you don't really wanna miss this.

It all goes down at the House on Paper Street.

- 114 N. 35th St. 9am-ish-

Dundee Street Scape Meeting. All the magic happens today at 3 pm.

Activate!

Activate Omaha is shaking things Up!


Hello all!

There is a bill proposed in the legislature that I am sure you are aware of: LB 134. This would prohibit the use of eminent domain by Papio NRD's when building recreational trails. If passed, this would have a devastating affect on the ability to expand the trail system throughout the state. Normally they do not use this technique to acquire land, but if there is one, single hold-out on a whole trail system, it could eliminate the entire project. I believe this was introduced on behalf of a small number of landowners in Cass County affected by the planned trail from Omaha to Lincoln. If you have not done so I would encourage you and your peers to let your senators know how you feel. There is a hearing on this bill tomorrow at 1:30 PM in Lincoln before the Natural Resources Committee.(Happened Last Week Oops) Members are:

Sen. Chris Langemeier, Chairperson clangemeier@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Tom Carlson tcarlson@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Tanya Cook tcook@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Annette Dubas adubas@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Deb Fischer dfischer@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Ken Haar khaar@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Beau McCoy bmccoy@leg.ne.gov
Sen. Ken Schilz kschilz@leg.ne.gov

Furthermore, Papio NRD will be down there testifying on the passage of LB 160 which is their bonding bill. This would allow them a funding mechanism to build both water quantity and water quality structures. With these lakes, they usually design a trail around them. There are other elements of the bill to assist in funding the raising of levees and implementation of low impact development environmental situations. The ability to issue bonds would be within their current mil levy authority which is 4.5 cents. They currently assess about 3.5 cents on the dollar. The hearing is scheduled after LB 134. I sincerely encourage you and your peers to contact the above senators and express a favorable vote on LB 160.

Thank you!

Tammie Dodge

Project Manager

Activate Omaha

12565 West Center Rd Suite 220

Omaha NE 68144

402.934.5923

tammie@activateomaha.org

http://www.activateomaha.org

Dundee Streetscape Redesign

Hello there everyone. There's an opportunity coming up for for us to advocate for better bicycle infrastructure right in Dundee. Apparently the neighborhood association is thinking about freshening up the feel of the area and is looking for public input. As many of us as possible should show up to push for bicycle-friendly additions (e.g. more bike racks, "share the road" signs, etc.).

Marty Shukert will be one of the leaders of the event. For those of you who don't know, Marty has been doing quite a bit of work through his design firm (RDG Planning and Design) and Activate Omaha (he's on the Bicycle/Pedestrian Advisory Committee) to design east/west bike routes throughout Omaha. He's also a cyclist himself, so he should be able to offer a friendly ear.

The brainstorming sessions are at Dundee Presbyterian Church (located at Happy Hollow and Underwood) and will be occuring at the following times:

Thursday, January 29th, 10am - 7:30 pm
Friday, January 30th, 9:30am - 5:30pm



This should be a pretty informal event. You can drop in for just a minute or two, or you can stick around for a few hours. The most important thing is that a bunch of us actually stop in and tell them what we want.

Time to Activate Omaha

Be a Voice.

Contact Legislature.

402.271.2628

1110 State Capitol, Lincoln NE 68509

Omahans this is your Guy to Bother

Or tell these Jokers to actually DO something

Tell them Bicycles are here to stay.

Inform them the strong need for signs that proudly state

Bike Route or Share the Road.

It seems like they need some Pedal Pushers!

Thriller Musical?

The ever popular Thriller video from the 80's is back, only this time it's hitting the social elites.
Broadway Baby.I'm currently dancing as I type, if only I could transform into a werewolf while prancing round life would be complete.

Don't Eat that Clif Bar

May be old news to some, But I stuff these in my face quite often and hope the dust settles soon.

If you like PB on/in everything then get to clicking.

A new plan...

Well as is common in Nebraska, the forecast is almost never correct. But I'm still planning the same ride but I'm looking at Saturday now. The weather says up around 40 and sunny. I'll be leaving from 72 and Pacific. I know that it isn't a 80 mile long haul enduro ride but if anyone is interested the meeting place is Blue Line 14th and Cuming Streets, 11-ish . Just some fun Pedal rotations from downtown area to Manawa or down to minneola and back.

Bring yourself, pants and a bicycle in good working order.

Bridge Access

Where is the access to the pedestrian bridge downtown? Is it down by the riverfront drive by Ricks Boatyard Cafe? or further north?


View Larger Map

Bike Polo?

So does anyone know what's the deal with this Bike Polo thing....?

It looks fun but... really?

Click the title for the link.

The Weekender/Frame Worthy Friday

Kona Sleepless in the Saddle 24 hr Granby Colorado 2005

We made it one more week, and I'm glad I can safely secure it beneath my belt and be done with it. So in the spirit of Festivus and all things Great, I offer up a weekend of Fun-N-Games, Mischief, Hi jinks and healthy spoonful of Hearty Eats.

If you're feeling lucky, then head on over to Bikemasters for their 12 hours of Troy. Dave gets pretty stoked for the indoor spin by including some of his personal favorite flicks. And you Do Not have to ride the entire 12 hours, just come and do whatever fits within your busy Saturday.
-Oh yeah it starts at 6am-

Don't even try to get tickets for Fortnight's show tomorrow at the Slowdown, because yep they're sold out. A band with another name for Fancy Manuscript is also playing with them. I have never heard of them though. So with that said I just may leave after Fortnight's set is complete.

Oh one more thing, this is why you deliver on a Bicycle.

Planing a ride

I'm lookin' to plan a ride for wednesday if the weather forecast holds true. I'll be leaving from 72nd and Pacific around 10ish, ride'n through downtown and lookin to make it to the Wabash trailhead in CB. I'll be happy if I make it to Lake Manawa and If I'm feelin' spunky I might go as far as Mineola. If anyone is interested or has any tips, let me know.