32by18

La MeSSa ridin'

2007-06-14T10:20:00.000+08:00

Michelle and Mat organized a singlespeed ride for their friend Pedro, a Pinoy SSer based in LA. I always enjoy riding La Mesa and this ride was no different! We were part of a big group that included singlespeeders (including JM, Boyet of Powerbikes, Matt, and myself), gearies and full-boingers. Jay, Mannito, and PA made it too. I tried my best to convince Mannito to bring his Jamis Exile 29er, but he opted to bring his Heckler instead hehe.

The ride kicked off a perfect Independence Day weekend. Want proof? Check out the photos here, courtesy of Michelle. For the photos I snapped, click here. Thanks Michelle for hosting them!

Race Weekend

2007-05-09T14:29:00.000+08:00

Race weekend's finally come around. We pre-rode the course Saturday, and instead of bringing my singlespeed, I rode an Ibis Mojo Carbon, courtesy of Goyo at Pinoybikes.

It couldn't be any different from my 29er: 26-inch wheels (!), close to 6 inches of front and rear suspension (!!), gears(!!!) and a full carbon frame (!!!!). What's going on? Who are you and what have you done to the real Agu?!?

Seriously though, I was reviewing it for the mag, and I must say, it's one smooth machine. Despite a getting-to-know-you period (see exclamation points, above), and the fact that there's so much things to adjust, we finally got it dialed in during the pre-ride. Vic brought a shock pump and we were able to tweak the rear Fox RP23. I preferred running it a bit stiff, but still I could feel some bobbing under me in the climbs, both on pavement and dirt. I had to maintain a smooth pedal stroke (as opposed to balls-to-the-wall, pedal pounding singlespeed-style riding) to keep the rear shock movement to a minimum, and maintain traction. Once pointed downhill, though, the Mojo is a couch!

I woke up on Sunday still undecided as to which bike to use. In the end, I took the Mojo. I figured in race conditi0ns I'd need the gears to recover hehe

Not that I was racing for a podium spot. I just wanted to be a face in the crowd and enjoy the trail ride. I found myself near the back of the pack at the start of the race, but I gradually worked my way up during the cement road climb - despite the Kenda Nevegals being too sticky for their own good. Entering the singletrack at Roxas I snuck past a few riders (leapfrogging Elvin in the process), and decided to take a weewee break at the top of the hill, which cost me a few places. Hey, I had to drain the lizard!

Bombing down the technical portions of Roxas was a blast on the Mojo, allowing me to overtake several racers. Back out on the access road and headed towards the portion called Boy-Girl (named as such because if you ride down the trail, you're a boy, and if you don't, well, you get the drift). During the pre-ride the day before, the Mojo held it's line in this part of the trail. Boy-Girl is basically a straight descent on some sketchy, rutted and loose soil. The organizers deemed it dangerous, thus requiring a mandatory dismount.

So I hop off the Mojo and scramble down the hill as fast as I can. At this point of the race I was riding by my lonesome, and the sun was beating down on me. I down a Powergel and turn left at the chapel and head down towards the nursery. A series of steps and whoop-dee-dos really make me appreciate the long-travel nature of the Ibis.

Headed up out of the nursery and it's a brutal dirt road climb under the baking sun. I spy Elvin around 50 meters in front of me and I join up with Mach and another rider, trying to persevere thru the climb. Mach and I make it up together but as I crest the hill he puts the power down and opens up a lead on me. I guess this is a race!

I try to catch up on the fire road descents and manage to hang on to his wheel, closing the gap at the finish. We're awarded the same time, at 50m 38s, though Mach's in the 23-30 age group. I just sneak in the top 20 of my age group, with Elvin 19th at 49m 57s, and Vic at 48m 26s. Karlo finished at 1h 42m 56s, and drew cheers from the crowd as he crossed the line. Smiles all around for everyone - racers and spectators alike.

Altogether a fun ride, but my work wasn't over, as I had to preside over the ceremonies (as soon as I recover).

It was a great race, though the heat was a bit unforgiving, being the middle of summer and all. I enjoyed riding the Mojo too, though I think I could've finished a bit faster if I was on my usual ride. Hehe.

For full race results, click here.

Bibendum rides a singlespeed

2007-05-02T12:15:00.000+08:00

Apparently, Michelin commisioned an artist back in the 1898 to draw up a mascot, and the inspiration came from a stack of bicycle tires...

I guess Bibendum (the Michelin Man) would just bounce safely along the trail, should he take a spill.

Race pre-ride

2007-04-28T20:59:00.000+08:00

This May 6, 2007 is the 2nd running of the Men's Health All Terrain Race, so race director King took Vic, Jovan, JM and myself up to pre-ride the course. We also hooked up with Team All Terra's Vince and his girlfriend Pam (on her first dirt ride). Jingo, Noel, Gigi and Pat caught up with us and pre-rode the course as well.

The route uses part of last year's course (Roxas trail), but extends into a section called Boy/Girl—a long, sketchy descent on loose soil, and passes behind the chapel via a section that has some steps cut into the dirt and some whoop-de-dos for good measure. After which is a longish grind uphill via a dirt road, back to the main trail of Maarat, then turns left to head back down to the Start/Finish area. Around 12km, but it's an intense and quite technical course. Vic, JM and myself did another loop of Roxas for good measure. Here's a Google Earth view of the trail. Details courtesy of Vic and King. Click to enlarge.

The race itself should be quite interesting, and we expect the first racers to come in at around 30 or 40 minutes. Hopefully all racers will be in before 11 (take off is estimated at 9 or 930am). The sun has been absolutely brutal the past week. We did have some rain Friday night, which helped moisten the trail, giving more traction to knobbies. Plus, they've graded the trails along Roxas, so the nasty ruts are gone. Darn. :-(

Hope to see you on race day!

Karlo Kam

2007-04-27T11:12:00.000+08:00

Karlo finally unbusied himself and uploaded his pics. It was his first Tour and major kudos to him for riding the 50km (not counting his bike commute to and from his house), while lugging around his dSLR.

As you can see, it was well worth it:

More snaps in his multiply account.

More Firefly Footage

2007-04-26T18:21:00.000+08:00

From Fara Manuel - No Bikes Allowed

From Fara Manuel @ McKinley Road

Studio 23 Newscentral

2007 Tour of the Fireflies

2007-04-16T14:26:00.000+08:00

Well, last year was Spanky's first appearance at the Tour of the Fireflies - a critical mass ride to generate awareness for clean air and bike advocacy. 2006 saw a group numbering 5,000 taking over the streets of Metro Manila...back then I think it was Jay and myself who were the only singlespeeders in attendance (well, at least to my knowledge).

2007 saw no less than ten of us...myself, JM, King, Edmund, Matt, Michelle, Noel, Doy, Boyet, Elvin, Norman...am sure there were others out there! It was fun and I think the number of participants swelled to 6,000. Our route was sort of the opposite of last year's, from Tiendesitas to Makati to Pasay to Manila to QC and back the Tiendesitas...here are some snaps

We're camwhores! JM and myself SSing and snapping along McKinley Road, Forbes Park.

Slow down? We ain't slowing down for anybody today, mister! Bikes rule!

Rest stop along Ayala. Hmm...this is the opposite side of this pic from last year.

At the Stock Exchange. Buy low, sell high!

Second rest stop at Magsaysay Center, Roxas Blvd., Manila. Yes, that's Polly.

and now on to the Ayala Bridge in downtown Manila.

JM, Polly and Rina hanging on my shoulder...

Edmund of All Terra and Mark Ellis of Fitness First share management strategies.

We swung by Quiapo church!

Overall, this year's Tour felt like it was going at a faster pace, not sure why. Another thing, nobody was hooting and hollering a much as last year, where we had bells and whistles and stuff. I did bring a whistle and was tooting it, but I think I ended up annoying the riders next to me.

Well, next year is the 10th anniversary! Let's see what Ricky and co. have planned!

Thanks to Jed for this neat snap. More pics from his Flickr photostream here.

More photos here as well.

I'm sure Karlo has some nice photos too, if only he unbusied himself long enough to post em!

Dusty Friday

2007-04-07T23:50:00.000+08:00

While everyone else in Manila was enjoying some drunken, hedonistic debauchery on a resort island (sinners!), we decided to hit up another trail system in the south. Off to Sta Rosa we went and it was a great way for Karlo to gain more experience (points) on varied terrain.

Housing/golf course development had turned what was once a dusty, dirt road climb is now a dustier, dirtier, steeper climb. They better compact the ground come rainy season, or else it's gonna be nasty. Here's Karlo conserving his energy for the rest of the ride.

Piña trail is always fun. Tight, twisty with roots and drops and stuff to surprise you. Here's Jay showing how it's done.

follow the leader, now it's JB's turn.

and Karlo...

and finally P.A. It's great to see him back on a bike!

Enjoying the shade. It's close to noon. Our tummies are grumbling!

The mandatory Duck trail shot. P.A. even tried Spanky out.

Another great ride, with great vibes all around.

Our next ride was in our old playground...Survival Trail! Details and report to follow...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SPANKY!!!

2007-04-06T19:38:00.000+08:00

Snazzy shots courtesy of Karlo.

A year ago today, my bike was finally built up and ready to ride. Since then, we've ridden countless trails, had a few scrapes, and went through a few upgrades.

Spanky rocked then, and rocks now, and will rock on!

Of course, what good is a birthday without a celebration. So today, Karlo, Jay and I decided to put in some Good Friday miles by hitting the trails at Sta Rosa. Karlo is an old-skool rider who is rediscovering mountain biking.

What better way to do that than on a 35km epic ride? Last week, I took him to Roxas trail in San Mateo, and yesterday as well.

Ride report and pics from all the recent rides soon!

Hole-y Thursday

2007-04-05T17:32:00.000+08:00

We hit Maarat and Roxas trail for the second time in a week. This time we had Jay and Mikitang in tow.

Weather was lovely, with some fog and light drizzle to make things interesting. Maarat is notorious for its clay-like mud, and we hoped the drizzle won't turn into a monsoon.

We're in Marin County!

Tourists. The Philippines is a major tourist destination for Japanese, Koreans, and Taiwanese nationals.

Karlo's second time around, and you can tell he has more balls. I mean confidence.

Jay enjoying some ruts.

Karlo's first water crossing. Time to get your feet wet, land-lubber!

Arrrrrr.

April's Fools

2007-04-01T11:56:00.000+08:00

I wasn't playing a pre-April Fool's Day joke on Karlo when I said we'd be hitting the trails yesterday. Knowing that he's had prior experience on a mountain bike, I decided to take him to Maarat - specifically Roxas trail, which is known for a few steep climbs and rutted descents. I advised him to take it easy, since it was is first time.

Here's Karlo, taking my advice to the letter!

Polly and his tricked-out Turner 5-Spot are always ready to ride.

Das me. spanking the monkey.

National Geographic shot care of Polly.

Here's Karlo in one of the gnarly downhill bits. He did pretty good. A lot of first timers walk down this section.

Carlo (with a C) enjoys the benefits of is full-sus Giant Anthem.

All dirty and all smiles!

Karlo needs a few more dirt rides under his belt. No problem, since it's Holy Week. I'll make sure he racks up some experience points!

a quickie!

2007-03-24T16:44:00.000+08:00

Rode Sta. Rosa today with Jay and Polly. After several months of not heading south, it would be interesting to see how the trails have changed.

Suffice to say, the first part of the trail ride has changed quite a lot. A subdivision development nearby has affected the topography of the first climbs. They're just as tough, but due to the earth-movers and trucks, it was very dusty. Think espasol. Yep, powder-fine dirt that not only compromised traction, but billowed in clouds every time.

One thing about riding in Sta. Rosa is the sheer amount of eye candy. I'm not talking about hot girls on bikes. But hot bikes. Turners, Santa Cruzs, Ellsworths, Yetis, Titus (what's the plural of Titus? hehe), Intenses...top shelf bikes with the latest components. Beautiful pieces of hardware!

We took off at around 7:30 and after the customary stop at the bukohan to regroup, Jay, Polly and myself headed out to blaze our own trail. Jay took us to "muddy trail", which was dry (thank God it's summer!). We rode that same trail during the wet season and it was a death march slog thru mud and ruts. Yukk.

Jay rode like a man possessed (Polly used the term "scorned"), ripping thru the singletrack and plantation trails. It was nice to tackle the course at speed and I did have a sideways moment where my rear wheel slipped sideways as I over-corrected for a rut. Go Magura HS33's! A quick squeeze on the rear brake and Spanky straightened up fine. They may be "vintage" but they are bombproof and have never let me down. I love my bike!

We wrapped up the ride a little after 10:00am, which is sort of like a personal best for our group. Can't wait to ride there again. Next time, master says faster!

P.S. Sorry no snaps. we were too busy riding fast!

baby shake your body do that conga

2007-03-16T11:05:00.000+08:00

Well it's been two weeks with nary a post - that means it's been two weeks of no riding for me. Reason being I had to jet off to Miami, FL for Rodale's International Editorial Conference - publishers of Men's Health, Bicycling, and Mountain Bike magazines (ahem).

Stopped over at SFO airport for a while and grabbed a nice burrito, and snapped this pic:

SF airport MTB Police grabbing a quick cuppa. It may have been me but I swear I couldn't hear the bike approaching. Hmmm, guess they need to be all quiet like when sneaking up to perps.

Arrived in Miami and cabbed it to South Beach where I gawked at the plethora of beach cruisers! Was so tempted to rent one out but sadly didn't get too much free time.

BUT I did manage to find my way to Bell's Bicycles, which is run by Santiago, and he hooked me up with a sweet deal on a pair of Tifosi Dolomites. Just what the doctor ordered to replace my battered Rudy Projects.

So after a week of presentations, meetings, handshakes and cocktails, I'm back home. Jet-lag's gone and it's time to get some riding done!

Monkey on the loose

2007-03-01T13:34:00.000+08:00

Here's a viddie of MTBRer Ty Englehardt popping some tricks on his Karate Monkey that only I can only dream of doing.

Guess it's time to start practicing!

my new bike

2007-03-01T11:16:00.000+08:00

Well, this came as a surprise. She just bought me a bike! And it rocks! Here's why:

1) it's a single speed
2) lugged, steel frame
3) it's got funky bars
4) it's got a neat truss fork
5) comes with a rack and fenders
6) has a vintage saddle
7) comes complete with a bell, reflectors and front light
8) it's RED

Shorn with white tires too. Supergroovy.

Here's my new ride. It's currently parked at work :)

It's affectionately dubbed the Saigon Single Speed.

I love it.

Despedida Dirt

2007-02-26T22:43:00.000+08:00

Well Gary's heading back to Idaho (who da ho?) on Wednesday, so yesterday was his last chance to get a dirt ride in. So it's off to La Mesa with King and the gang. We rode in a big group with a bunch of first-timers but it was a real fun ride. Our ranger/trail guide clued us in to this new route they were buiding that effectively creates a loop to Tower 1. It used to be an in-and-out ride, so we were all giddy with anticipation. This new trail skirts the perimeter of the park, and it consists of nice singletrack and forest trails. Plus a smattering of rocks and a short but vicious climb that I stalled on. Gary made it up with no problem (as did the other geared riders)...but that was my only dab of the day. All in all a nice ride and a perfect sending off for Gary!

singletrack soundtrack:
Sleeping In - The Radio Dept.

We also had a camera crew from GamePlan covering the ride. Looks like I'll get my 5 minutes of fame, unless they edit me out hehe

Unfortunately, they were also on hand to document Jovan's flat tire fix, as seen below.

2007 Spyder Men's Health Executive Cycling Race series, Subic leg

2007-02-18T22:17:00.000+08:00

What's this? I drive up north to Subic to make an appearance as the sponsor in the inaugural leg of the 2007 Spyder Men's Health Executive Cycling Race series (say that ten times, fast). Got there Friday afternoon (race days were Saturday and Sunday), and All Terra lent me the Kona Jake (a cyclocross bike!) to mess around the race course. I was actually entertaining ideas of racing in Category C (35kms)...at any rate, Ramon, Nina, Gary and myself decided to check out part of the course. Gary was suffering from a mysterious foot ailment which prevented him from racing, so he acted as official photographer and coach.

Ramon and Nina rode down to the motor raceway whilst Gary and I tailed them in the car. Nina then drove back as I joined Ramon for a short road ride:

I look more like a bicycle messenger in baggies, than a roadie!

Ramon and I discuss the finer points of road cycling...
"So, what's the best shaving cream and razor combo for shaving your legs?", I asked.
Ramon didn't answer, as this was on an uphill gradient.

I decided to give Ramon a helping hand up the hill. Hehe.

Darnit he was just playing possum! He left me for dead once the streets levelled off! Grrr.

Around this time I think I was thinking of dinner hehe

Twas a fun weekend, though. Got a free tan (read: sunburn), didn't get to race but instead acted as an unofficial support vehicle giving water, help and encouragement to the racers. (I wonder if the sight and sound of me shouting at them as they passed by was at all encouraging. They did pedal faster!)...

Maybe I should've raced.

But then I would have to shave my legs and wear lycra. No baggies allowed it seems. Der cycling fashion nazis will have a fit haha!

Salamat kay Gary for snapping the pics!

a few more shots from last weekend's ride

2007-02-14T16:50:00.000+08:00

Looks like the main pack went ahead. Jovan waited for Francis, Gary and myself. Thanks man!

Gary making it look effortless (he already lost his right cleat by then!)

Here I am trying to catch up with the main group. Gary's closing in on my rear wheel. Pedal, dammit!

The group waiting for us slowpokes to show up. Sorry guys we took a wrong turn! As you can see, JM is taking off already. He made it home before his Seven turned into a pumpkin and he turned into a mouse himself.

Michelle. Matt's one lucky guy to have a better half that rides! She'll be on an SS soon!

Matt, probably the first singlespeeder in the Philippines

Vic- always smiling!

King, now back to his riding best.

Rommel and Edmund. Positive vibes all around.

JM, moving too fast for the camera

Jovan - the father of the Philippine Cycling Network.

photos courtesy of Jed Santos of EcoRescue.

the new hire?

2007-02-13T10:13:00.000+08:00

Look who I'm sharing my cubicle with:

Yep, decided to take Spanky to work today. Granted, the office is just 2km away from home (have to climb a short hill though). I still managed to get to work in less time than if I drove it. It's sort of empowering passing cars that are gridlocked, engines idling while waiting for the traffic light to turn green. Had to contend with some pollution, of course, but for a 9am ride it was still pleasantly cool and I hadn't worked up a sweat when I timed in. Felt energized too.

Hmm, maybe I'll do this more often. Need a lil more man-smell and testosterone round here in an office that's dominated by ladies. Hehe. Then again, studies show that men release pheromones after a workout...wait till they get a whiff of my saddle! HAHAHAHA!

the ReboluSSyon's EvoluSSyon

2007-02-12T17:03:00.000+08:00

Around the same time, last year, I went for a bike ride with Gary - an expatriate Pinoy who is now based in Idaho. Gary spend a good amount of time riding the NORBA circuit, and has amassed a huge amount of experience and knowledge about riding, and bikes in general. He's an accomplished racer, mechanic and now a framebuilder. To think his full-time occupation is as a software designer! He's now since retired (from both racing and from his day job), and visits his folks in the Philippines every year. Oh ya, we raced together last year, for shits n' giggles.

This year, though, he brought along his singlespeed bike, and we managed to organize a singlespeed ride of sorts at the La Mesa watershed. Here's the crew, from left to right:

Jovan(trying to unsuccessfully blend into the background), he rides a Cannondale hardtail.
Michelle(better half of Matt), on a Giant NRS.
Matt(unofficial father of Pinoy SSing), who rides an EBB's Dean Titanium hardtail.
Francis(bearer of positive vibes and siopaos), on a Giant NRS.
Edmund(All Terra head honcho), on a Salsa Juan Solo.
King(everybody knows him!), on a converted Gary Fisher carbon fiber hardtail.
Myself(nothing to see here, move along now). Oh wait, I'm wearing the 2nd edition P1SSer jersey!(ok, now move along).
JM(Super Strong SS rider, placed in one of the short-track races this year), on a sweet EBB'd steel Seven Sola that's blinged out.
Gary("just visiting"), on an Ionic Titanium hardtail that's setup as a dinglespeed - two different sets of gear ratios- one for commuting, another for dirt. Trick setup. He's got the 1st edition P1SSer jersey.
Not in photo:
Noel(fellow SS 29er), he rides an On-One Inbred 29er.
Vic(the downhill bomber), on a Jamis XLT.
Rommell(endurance athlete), on a Cannondale Rush.

Now that makes seven singlespeeders in one ride. That must be a Philippine record. If only Rommel brought his SS Klein, and Vic converted his own Klein, and Jay was in town instead of paying Mr. Lee a visit at Flying Ball...we'd have ten! Matt said he's got a project SS bike for his better half - so yes, we are a growing movement!

Matt and me comparing sizes. Wheel sizes that is.

Almost at the top of the heinous climb. Sorry, couldn't stop to admire the view! But I believe you can see the city from up here...

singletrack soundtrack (for the climbs):
Twist and Crawl - The English Beat

singletrack soundtrack (for the twisties and the descents):
Too Much Pressure - The Selecter

guess that Ska comp is still ringing in my years from last weekend ;)

Edmund giving his Juan Solo a workout. Or was it the other way around?

Noel, always smiling! He's a strong rider. To think he hasn't upgraded to clipless pedals yet!

It's da King. He has unofficial "ranger" status in these parts.

Matt- he's the one that started it all.

Gary - he's a mountain goat! Halfway thru the ride he had a wardrobe malfunction, and lost a cleat bolt underneath his right shoe. He had to pedal one-legged for a bit. On a singlespeed. Uphill. I'm not worthy.

Matt, myself and Michelle grinding and grinning our way up another climb.

JM's Seven and Gary's Ionic. Taking five at Tower 5.

Our route took us to Tower 1, and JM set a blistering pace (we later found out he had to be home for lunch hehehe). The head ranger said that they are developing a link from Tower 1 to Tower 5, which unfortunately was still unfinished at that time. So we doubled back from Tower 1, and took a breather at Tower 5. We continued on back towards the parking lot, but Gary, Francis and myself got separated from the group, when I took a wrong turn (sorry!). Luckily we regained our bearings and met up with Jovan (who waited for us) and pressed onwards after I quaffed a Powergel packet. We decided to take an indirect route back to the parking lot, via the Violago gate, which was mostly rolling doubletrack punctuated by a few climbs. My thighs were giving me warning signs on an imminent cramp meltdown, so I decided to take it easy and let the rest of the guys go ahead, whilst I stretched and checked my mobile phone (had important matters to deal with). After receiving the good news via sms, my legs felt fine and I pushed the pace to catch up with them. A quick breather and phone call and we were off towards the parking lot. I wanted to get back to the car by noon as I had to make a follow up call and on the slight incline near the finish line my legs were getting really stiff. I was down to the last few sips of my hydration pack and I decided to just grimace and bear it. Upon reaching the parking lot, I hopped off the bike, and my legs were stiff as boards! I was waddling like a penguin. Had trouble sitting myself down so I did it in lil increments. Man, I felt like a geriatric hehe. After a good stretch, I was able to walk normally. A quick phone call and my day was made :)

On the way home, Gary and I stopped for some vegetarian burritos. That hit the spot.

All in all, a perfect day as far as riding was concerned. Rode with a fun bunch and hung out a bit afterwards. I felt beat though, but in a good, masochistic way.

What a difference a year makes!

Thanks to Gary and JM for the pics!

pedaling for Sheldon Brown

2007-02-09T10:45:00.000+08:00

If there was any such thing as a bicycle guru, Sheldon Brown would be the man. For years his website has been a goldmine of information - from bicycle tinkering to singlespeed conversions.

Well I just found out from MTBR that Mr. Brown is having health problems, and he posts updates about it in his journal...

Here's my reply to the forum thread:

***snip***

hang in there, Sheldon!

Wishing you all the best, from all the way here in the Philippines.

Your site has been a valuable source of information for me as well.

From now on, each pedal stroke I make going uphill will be dedicated to your health.

Fellow SSers and riders, I invite you to do the same

***snip***

You folks can post a message in the aforementioned thread, or send him an email of support and well wishes at:
(captBike at sheldonbrown dot com).

Men's Health/All Terra Bike Clinic

2007-01-28T18:25:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was a good opportunity to earn some bike karma. Men's Health magazine and All Terra bike shop were conducting a bike clinic for new riders at the Divine Mercy race track. Attendance was pretty good and Karlo joined in as well as a photographer and participant. The session started off with lectures by the team members on MTB fundamentals and a short Q & A session. After which they each had a shakedown ride to check equipment and adjust bike fit. Then we let them loose on the track (of course, accompanied by the instructors).

Obviously I wasn't listening to the lecture!

Edmund briefs all the participants prior to heading on track.

New riders who can't wait to get their tires dirty.

The venue was the same race course as last year's SMB Light MTB series, and while the place has changed a bit since then, some of the climbs and drops were still there.

Karlo attacking a short climb.

He's got his game face (aka Tiger Look) on. Karlo did particularly well - even riding with us thru several drops and gnarly sections. Whaddaya expect - his surname is Samson!

Twas nice to ride with the rest of the MHAT team - Dandan, King and JM brought their singlespeeds too, so that was fun.

The sesh ended around 11:30am, and after a snack at Aling Tina's, Vic P, King and I went up to hit the trails in Roxas. A short and sweet loop, we were a bit concerned about the noontime heat, but luckily we've had a spate of cool weather this month, and a big cloud gave us ample shade for the duration of the ride. Spanky felt good - rather, Spanky kinda disappeared underneath me - I kinda like that when it happens - you just flow along the trail. Cleaned all the climbs, and just dabbed twice. Once before a stream crossing and another in a rooty section. Headed back to the car by 2pm - not a bad day at all for riding.

singletrack soundtrack: Run Runaway - Slade (hey at least it's a fast song with catchy guitars)

Thanks to Jed of Ecorescue and Karlo for the pics. We've got more, but we're saving them for an upcoming story in the mag :)

Powered by Valrhona/The Two Towers

2007-01-20T17:18:00.000+08:00

Last night was admittedly, quite decadent. Nothing like a nice evening spent with the Lady Nitro, sharing two Valrhona flourless cupcakes (plus a peppermint/choco one) and a nice pot of Earl Grey tea. I LOVE IT. Of course, I'll be atoning for my indulgence by riding...

Yes I can have my cupcake and eat it too.

singletrack soundtrack: Avenging Angels - Space

Don't ask why, but that's what the jukebox in my head started playing while riding. Today's ride was back in La Mesa, with Polly, Jay, King, Jovan, 2 Carlo's and 2 Vics. All in all, 9 riders. We felt like Ringwraiths. Guess you can call me the self-styled Witch King. Fitting that, since we were riding to the Two Towers - that is, La Mesa ranger towers 3 and 1, respectively.

After logging 16km to and from the towers, we headed down to the campsite by the water. Total mileage was around 22km I guess, but let me tell you, the first 16km were intense. At least I climbed the hills non-stop.

Post-ride meals were had at Tia Maria's Cantina along Katipunan - Mexican food is perfect after a hard day's ride. I had myself a grilled chicken burrito.

~~Jay, where are the pics?!~~ Here are the pics!

Polly, Vic M, myself, King, Vic P, Ranger DenDen, Jovan, Carlo K, and Carlo M. Not in photo (he snapped it) is Jay.

That's one tricked-out Turner tricycle!

On a clear day you can see forever. Polly and Jay seeing the sights from atop Tower 1.

We rode down to the shore, where Spanky decided to hang around for a bit.

Afternoon riding

2007-01-14T10:44:00.000+08:00

the ride's singletrack soundtrack was:

Tell - The Radio Dept.

King, Vic and I met up for a mid-afternoon ride in Maarat yesterday. Weather was perfect, with some a bit of sun shining down on us and a cool breeze blowing.

We decided to do some "exploring" (a creative way of saying we got a bit lost), and ended up backtracking at some points. The whole ride was well worth it though, as the photos attest:

View of the city from one of the higher points of the ride. To the left is Laguna de Bay, straight ahead is Makati and Manila Bay, and to the extreme right would be La Mesa. Wish I had a more capable camera!

"My GPS says...", that's Vic

Ridin' and smilin'! Looks like King's fully recovered from last June's mishap

Me taking a breather

Ride down or walk it? We walked it. Too steep and too rutted for our tastes.

Quotes of the day

2007-01-10T12:58:00.000+08:00

All around crazy guy and "returning" biker Karlo sent me this quote via YM:

"When man invented the bicycle he reached the peak of his attainments. Here was a machine of precision and balance for the convenience of man. And (unlike subsequent inventions for man's convenience) the more he used it, the fitter his body became. Here, for once, was a product of man's brain that was entirely beneficial to those who used it, and of no harm or irritation to others. Progress should have stopped when man invented the bicycle." ~Elizabeth West, Hovel in the Hills

Speaking of more bicycle related quotes, here's more:

"The bicycle is a curious vehicle. Its passenger is its engine." ~John Howard

"The bicycle is the most civilized conveyance known to man. Other forms of transport grow daily more nightmarish. Only the bicycle remains pure in heart." ~Iris Murdoch, The Red and the Green

"When I see an adult on a bicycle, I do not despair for the future of the human race." ~H.G. Wells

"It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them. Thus you remember them as they actually are, while in a motor car only a high hill impresses you, and you have no such accurate remembrance of country you have driven through as you gain by riding a bicycle." ~Ernest Hemingway

"Until mountain biking came along, the bike scene was ruled by a small elite cadre of people who seemed allergic to enthusiasm." ~Jacquie Phelan

"The secret to mountain biking is pretty simple. The slower you go the more likely it is you'll crash." ~Juli Furtado

Going up...

2007-01-09T23:37:00.000+08:00

the ride's singletrack soundtrack:

All Mixed Up - The Red House Painters

So this is how I look when my heartrate is on the redline, going up a hill. This shot (taken by Jed Santos) was taken during last weekend's ride at La Mesa - and I was part of a 10-rider gaggle led by King. There were several other groups of riders too, and it was a great day to ride and enjoy the lush scenery - as well as contribute to the preservation of the area by paying the entrance fee.

This was the last big hill before heading back to the parking lot. Vic and I broke off from the group and did some exploring :)

Did feel the effects of my efforts later in the day, though. But it was well worth it. Cleaned all the climbs, and Spanky with the Maxxis Ignitors worked like a charm - well, mostly. Back at the parking lot I decided to check all the bolts on the bike (lesson learned!) and as I torqued down on my crankbolts, one of them snapped. It was a Salsa one to boot. Should've known better. Never run alloy chainring bolts on a singlespeed. Luckily All Terra had some stainless steel bolts and spacers for sale. I duly grabbed a set of 10, and replaced all 4 alloy bolts on my crank. Problem solved, with spares to boot.

The Mother of all 29er FS Shootouts

2007-01-09T23:21:00.000+08:00

Looks like Francois and the rest of the MTBR crew have outdone themselves on this one.

A heeeyuuuuge 29er full-suspension shootout. Lots of bikes, lots of riders, lots of reading!

Here's what they tested (in alphabetical order):

Astix Monk
Ellsworth Evolve
Intense Spyder
Lenz Sport Leviathan
Niner R.I.P.9
Titus Racer X 29er
Van Dessel Jersey Devil FS
Ventana El Rey

Personally, I think I'd go for the Ventana. Get all the big wheel action here.

It's great to see the bike industry embracing this "new idea". We'll be seeing more 29er-specific components in the near future, that's for sure - wheelsets, tires and forks to be exact. Now, I wonder how long it will take for this movement to reach Philippine shores ;)

Here's to 2007!

2007-01-02T23:48:00.000+08:00

It's a new year and a new start.

And personally I think it will be a good year :)

Watch this space!

Happy New Year to everyone!

Bike Lust!!!

2006-12-31T17:41:00.000+08:00

After yesterday's round of maintenance, today was time to give the bike some good ol' rubbin and lovin!

Before anything else, I hadn't gotten anything for Spanky this Yuletide season yet - hmmm let's see...can't upgrade the drivetrain (no gears here!); chain is still ok; brakes are fine (got spare pads...heck, I even have a spare set of brakes from the Tingle!); handlebars are fine, grip tape is perfect; new saddle! I wanted one, but all the local shops are out of white leather saddles for some reason...hmmm...I got it!

Carbon Fibre Bar-end Plugs. Yep. I know, I know, it's a cosmetic upgrade, but it's a subtle touch hehe

After installing the plugs, it was time to give the bike a good wipe-down of Pedro's Bike Lust. Right down to the rims and spokes. Lovely shine.

Oh, I also did a number on my brother's FS rig. As you can see in the background.

And for good measure, I also did his Dahon SpeedPro.

What can I say, I guess I love bikes!

How can I forget - it's also the last day of 2006! If you're looking for a retrospective, well, just click away at the links underneath THE TRAIL, on the right.

Powder and Lotion

2006-12-30T20:08:00.000+08:00

Yes, it may be a referral to massage parlors and sauna baths (hmmm, that may be a good post-ride idea!)...but in my case, it was my bike that needed some post-ride pampering...

Earlier today, Polly, Jay and I rode in Sta. Rosa - and we all agreed on an early take off time of 730am. I woke up early enough, and had half a mind to wear tights, instead of my normal bib shorts, underneath my baggies. The weather's been pretty cool lately too. A quick peek outside my window for a weather check (ala groundhog), and spotted a glimmer of sunlight. Nah, real men don't wear tights hehe

The farther I drove south, the greyer the skies were. In fact, by the time I parked at Paseo, it was drizzling pretty strongly. Got out of the car to unrack Spanky, and darnit, it was chilly and breezy too! I should've worn tights.

Polly and Jay arrived soon after and we pushed off - the drizzle stopped and we had perfect riding conditions, that is, until we hit the 3nd climb of what they call "cardiac hill". It seems that land development has started to creep into the familiar trails here. What was once a dirt-road climb has now been widened by bulldozers - not a big problem really, but our concern is that since the construction company had NOT steamrollered the soil to compact it, it all turns into a muddy mess when it starts to rain. And so it did when we hit the third climb. I should've worn tights.

We took a breather at the bukohan and that's when the skies really opened up. We decided to just stick to the main trails as most of the plantation dirt roads would either be too muddy or rutted to ride through. We resumed riding when the rain stopped, whilst the fog came rolling in. Nice! (sorry no photos of that - too much moisture in the air ya know).

We bombed down the fire road, headed for Duck Trail, and I was all over the place for some strange reason. Steering wasn't as responsive as I remember and I was getting a free arm workout thanks to the rocky descent. Before cutting into duck trail I decreased my tire pressure a bit, which seemed to help my traction woes.

Yes, Jay, the sun is out.

Halfway through Duck I got stuck in a rut - literally. I had to bail to the left, slo-mo style. Got a bruised shin for my trouble and I was puzzled as to why the Monkey was going all squirrelly on me. Hmmm. Not even tights could've changed that bit.

After the ride I decide to do some maintenance on the bike:

1) swap tires from my Kenda Klaw XTs to my Maxxis Ignitors
Hence the powder - it helps stop the inner tube from sticking to the tire casing. Also:

2) Suss out that damn slow leak in my rear tire
Finally found the culprit - a smaller-than-a-needle sized sliver of something was causing the leak.

3) Take care of that dry saddle
Wet rides and getting sun dried is hell on leather saddles, and my old WTB still has a few years left on it. Hell, it's got titanium rails too. So I slather on some lotion to get it back to its softness, and add some leather conditioner for good measure. Decided to grease the seatpost too...but

4) Siezed seatpost!
It won't come off! Try as I might, it wouldn't budge. Good thing my bro has a spray that helps loosen siezed bolts and stuff. A spritz and a few minutes later, I got the bugger off. Note to self: never use lithium grease (the white stuff) anywhere on the bike.

5) Figure out handling gremlins
I think I got that sorted out too. It seems I over-compensated and rotated the bars downwards too much after my close encounter during the last ride - funny how a degree or two can affect a bike's handling.

So the bike's tip-top, well, mechanically at least. That's alright, coz tomorrow, I'm getting all intimate on it with some Bike Lust.

James Brown, 1928-2006

2006-12-26T18:43:00.000+08:00

I know it's not quite bicycling-related (though sometimes his tunes do play in my head when sweeping thru singletrack or huffing up a climb), but the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, passed away Christmas Day.

Here are some quotes from The Man:

"I don't really care what people think, ... I just do my own thing. ... I like being loud and letting people know I'm there.”

“I taught them everything they know, but not everything I know.”

“My expectations of other people, I double them on myself.”

and finally...

“The one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing”

Come to think of it, when was the last time you danced? When was the last time I danced?

How about now? Jazz and Beyond has a podcast that pays homage to the late, great one.

Get on the good foot!

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE IN INTERNET-LAND!

2006-12-25T10:34:00.000+08:00

ChriSStmaSS riding!

2006-12-23T21:27:00.000+08:00

So today King, JM and myself decided to squeeze in a quick ride in Maarat. Route was Ka Tobias - Yes/No - Ka Vergel and back to Ka Tobias, and we took off at 7:45am with perfect December weather - a cool breeze blowing in despite the morning sun.

It was the first real trail ride for JM's Seven Sola, and what better venue than the varied terrain that Maarat offers. We turned into Yes/No after the initial climb and the rolling terrain was a blast to ride. We rested a bit to take some photos, before continuing the descent and the subsequent hike-a-bike down, and up, some really rutted trails (thanks to the rains and the frequent use of the area by dirt-bikers). Altogether a good ride with around 20+km of mileage.

Funny that this ride had it's share of close and not-so-close calls: JM took a spill when his front wheel slid out from under him when going downhill. He landed on a thicket, but was otherwise unscathed. King on the other hand, lost his tire patch kit and spare chain links when they fell out of his jersey's rear pocket, and landed in the fishpond at Ka Tobias - we were chilling out in one of the "floating" huts on top of the fish pond. As for me, well, a scary moment during the final downhill when after a slight jump my Mary bars rotated downwards. Luckily this happened during a straight and I was able to get them back to their original position by yanking them up and doing a wheelie. Could've ben much, much worse, and much, much messier!

Note to self: when ANYTHING on your bike starts to creak or make funny sounds, DO NOT take it for granted. Investigate immediately and check bolts often for correct tightness!

Another thing I've been noticing recently is that whenever I ride, songs start playing in my head! recent rides include the following tracks:

It's Different For Girls (Joe Jackson remake) - Boy Kill Boy
Cars and Girls - Prefab Sprout
Long Time Coming - The Delays

and today's soundtrack?

Chains - The Wolfgang Press

Enough chatter! Here are some photies:

"The King is number 1!" says JM

Spanky the Monkey, King's GF and JM's ESSther taking 5

Another (artsy) angle

Ruts galore

JM's Seven Sola

King's GF

Sorry, no photos of Spanky - you guys must be sick of seeing MY bike by now!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Trails to you!

P1SSer v2 jersey

2006-12-22T21:24:00.000+08:00

Ed Lee showed me the prototype of the P1SSer v2 jersey, and it's looking pretty good. Just a few tweaks and this design will be coming to a trail near you!

front (make use of thinner material for a deeper color of black)
:

rear (tweak circle outlines on text, make them 100% black)

seal (will be reduced 50% size)

slogan (will be reduced by 50% as well, or replaced by the seal)

What you guys think?

Mabuhay Ang ReboluSSYon!

Back to La Mesa

2006-12-20T18:39:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, King, Vic, Mach and I headed to the La Mesa Watershed for some exploratory riding. After a delay at the gate (they're pretty strict with regards to access), we pushed off at around 230pm.

The first third of the ride was on the familiar trails that we had ridden before. We had maps and a GPS (courtesy of Vic), as well as an accompanying forest ranger (who can hammer uphill!), so we proceeded to head to Tower 1. The forest doubletrack was a joy to ride, with some waterbars with which to catch some air (at least when going downhill)...these waterbars are a challenge when crawling uphill though. More than once I felt like Spanky and I were going to stall out. The first sustained climb seemed to go on forever. I had to resort to Jedi Mind Tricks - convincing myself it will flatten itself out after the next turn - and soon enough we were at Tower 1.

The top of Tower 1 gives a magnificent view of the North and Northeastern parts of the metropolis. We can see the familiar hills of Maarat as well as the Ortigas Center skyline from our crow's nest. After catching our breath, we rode on to Tower 3 - point to point, "about 2km", according to the map.

The route to Tower 3 passes through some rolling terrain and the now-common waterbars. I had to restrain myself from getting airborne as these lil humps are quite abrupt, and the landings can be treacherous. Some sections of the trail were covered with soft, loamy soil, which felt like molasses when you'd pass through - eating your momentum whether you're going downhill or up. It was and in and out/to and from Tower 3, as the rangers had closed the gate that links this trail to the rest of the system. Admittedly, I walked for a short bit in once section, and paused to catch my breath at another climb - just tried to pace myself after the lung-busting climb earlier.

Our way back to the parking lot took us through the course that was used in the Cecon 24H challenge - which King participated in. Nice bermed switchbacks and a flowing descent to end our ride at 5:30pm. A good day, and well worth the entrance fee.

To quote Vic's posting in the All Terra Yahoogroup:

"Some stats: 18k ride, 1500 ft of total vertical over gradually rolling terrain (max 20% grade). Tower 1 is the highest point at 720ft..."

La Mesa has a lot of riding potential - we can't wait to head back and explore more!

Go JM Go!

2006-12-04T09:54:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to fellow P1SSer JM for finishing a strong 2nd place in the recently-concluded Giant XC Race in the Divine Mercy Race Track in Maarat, Rizal. JM rode his Seven Sola singlespeed...make that a blinglespeed - Chris King hubs, Push'd Fox Fork, etc. etc. He ran a 32x16 gearing. I've ridden with him on his Gary Fisher SS, which was geared 34x18 (I think) and he left me for dead on the climbs in Sta Rosa, so I wasn't surprised he smoked the competition (except one) in this race.

We test-rode the trck the day before, and it is do-able. A simple change to semi-slicks on the dry course and JM was all set.

Why didn't I race? Well, I have a perfectly good reason, which I'll keep to myself ;-)

More info in this PinoyMTBiker thread.

P1SSer jersey, second edition

2006-11-25T17:43:00.000+08:00

Finally found some free time to hammer out my definitive design for the P1SSer jersey...let me know what you think:

Critical MaSS ride!

2006-11-20T17:10:00.000+08:00

Well, it's finally happened. Last November 18 was the first time more than 2 single-speeders rode together...aside from me, there was King (on his Gary Fisher), DanDan (on his Big Cat), and Noel (on his On-One Inbred 29er) - yes, another milestone is that I am not the lone 29er/SS rider over here. It was Noel's first time to hit the trails in Maarat on the Inbred, but he had a great ride. He's a pretty strong rider! He also wore the sample of the 1st P1SSer jersey...

Some pics for your pleasure:

That's Noel, myself, Franz (geared rider but all-around good guy!), and King. Pic was snapped by DanDan.

Me pretending to be Drill Sergeant and urging Noel to Go!Go!Go! and attack the climb. He cleaned it easily :)

DanDan effortlessly sailing up the same climb. He makes everything look easy.

King powering up another climb. It's great to ride with him again, and to see him recovering well after his accident earlier this year. Incidentally, the last time we rode this trail together was before his accident. Now he's back with a singlespeed. Hail to the King!

Yes that's my butt hitting the climb. I have personal issues with this particular hill - and I attack it with gusto. Now that I manage to clean it, another hill farther down the trail earns my ire when I stall a few feet short of the top. As I always say, "There's always something to come back to next ride." Or in our vernacular, "babalikan kita!".

UK's On-One Inbred 29er meets its US counterpart, in the Surly Karate Monkey...where else but in Da Pilipins!

Yes, we got singlespeeders growing on trees over here! (Ya right!)

Back at the trailhead for a post-ride shot.

Thanks to Noel, Franz and DanDan for the snaps!

PISSer jerseys

2006-11-02T23:25:00.000+08:00

Apparently, there's a demand for these! Aside from King's design, I contributed these two options:

This is my "retro" design...text may be subject to change...

While this is a more modern take:

Will whip up more designs as the days go by, free time permitting ;)

recommended listening

2006-11-02T21:02:00.000+08:00

If you got an iPod, just like several zillion other people do - and you ride, you should tune in to the Crooked Cog Podcast. It's run by the good guys at TwentyNineInches.com, and has excerpts from the Interbike 2006 show, as well as interviews with bike industry bigwigs. They talk about stuff that interests me (such as 29ers, single-speeding, etc), and maybe, it'll interest you too.

Speaking of podcasts, that's all my iPod is good for now. Guess it's starting to show its age.

another month, another post

2006-11-01T14:41:00.000+08:00

Yes it's been a month since I've posted, because once again, some real-world responsibilities have gotten into the way. And when you start prioritizing things that (a) you MUST do; (b) you SHOULD do; (c) you BETTER do; and (d) you WANT to do - guess which one gets tossed out? For me, it's (d)!

So here's how my October went by, in a nutshell:

Oct 3-13 Run up to my trip to the States
Oct 14-21 One week away: 1/2 day in Detroit. 2 1/2 days in Pennsylvania, 2 days in NYC, close to 2 days in the air. Lovely. Hours spent riding this whole time? ZERO.
Oct 22-29 Fended off jet lag, and a bad case of the cold, usccessfully. Again, no riding.
Oct 31 - did some "trick or treating" hehe.

But I did check out some bike shops in NYC - and yes, I dropped by NYC Velo, where I got myself a largish Timbuk2 messenger bag (coz my luggage was full to the brim already with work stuff to take home), a long-sleeved NYC Velo shirt (just like what Andrew's got on here), Dirt Rags #118 and #124...so no ENO crankset, no bike rentals...

I did snap a pic of a ghost bike:

This one's a memorial to Reginald Chan, aged 60, who was hit by a truck on Third Avenue at 17th Street, on September 18, 2006. Rest in peace, fellow rider.

I spotted this while walking back from NYC Velo to another bike shop, Manhattan Velo...I actually missed it the first time I walked by. Strange. But when I did see it, it was a chilling experience. Said a short prayer for the fallen rider, snapped a pic, and went on my way.

Interbike 2006 29er Bike Porn

2006-10-03T21:06:00.000+08:00

click here

'nuff said!

why...why...why

2006-09-30T11:52:00.000+08:00

Why do you ride a singlespeed?!

Why do you ride rigid?!

Why do you ride a 29er?!

Those are probably the three most oft-asked questions of me when I meet people when I ride. My answers would range from:

Why do you ride a singlespeed?!
"I like the simplicity, the challenge of it"

Why do you ride rigid?!
"I like to feel more-connected to the trail"
"The bike's more responsive that way"

Why do you ride a 29er?!
"The bigger wheels smooth out the bumps"
"They give more traction"
"I'm compensating!"

Maybe I should just direct them to this post, by fellow SS/Rigid/29er rider Evil Kojiro.

An entertaining read. Go click it.

put on the lobster bib, ready the drool bucket...

2006-09-29T12:15:00.000+08:00

coz Interbike is currently running!
Interbike 2006 showcases upcoming bikes, parts, accessories, you name it. enough to get all our chamois(es) in a bunch. Wonder when we'll get to see these goodies on our shores?

here are some links to specific coverages:

Twentynineinches: For everything about the big wheels. Man, that Salsa Mamasita looks hot! Carbon and geared...arriba!

MTBR's live coverage: Due to the amount of traffic, expect some s-l-o-w-d-o-w-n-s.

Cycling News has got more general coverage too.

we're in!

2006-09-27T00:24:00.000+08:00

the photos I submitted to the Singlespeed Gallery have been published online!

snap o' da day

2006-09-26T12:05:00.000+08:00

hahaha!

Polly snapped this before we headed for our second serving of Duck Trail last Sunday. Ride went well as it was a bit overcast. Inner trails were a bit muddy but rideable. Jay is still fine-tuning his 1x1+Mary combo, so the verdict is still out.

I made the mistake of adding more PSI to my Kenda Klaws - while they did still grip well, they didn't absorb the bumps as much as the last time. Will tweak settings again for this weekend.

Crank is still a-creaking, and I definitely have to grab a new one soon. Hmmm...maybe a White Industries ENO crank will do...something to track down when I leave mid-October for the US.

NYCVELO, here I come! I have a day or so of free time in New York, and I plan to rent a bike and see the sights. Despite this article from the New York Times. Could riding there be as bad as here in Manila?!? But thanks, Lara, for the heads-up :)

link o' da day

2006-09-22T16:12:00.000+08:00

Check out the Singlespeed Gallery, folks!

World Car Free Day 2006

2006-09-20T16:28:00.000+08:00

Allow me to quote all-around good guy Ricky Pineda of the Firefly Brigade:

"Bikers of the Philippines!

World Carfree Day is an annual celebration of cities and public life,
free from the noise, stress and pollution of cars, and the beauty of
the alternative- biking! Each year on September 22(or close to that
date), people around the world organize events of all sizes to
showcase alternatives to the automobile.

Join this year's Philippine celebration of
World Car Free Day on
September 23, 2006 (Saturday).

Meet-up with other bikers at 4:00pm at the UP AS Parking Lot.

Let's have a fun celebration of our love for biking . Bring your
helmets, blinkers, friends and your sense of humor. Let's bike around
the Metro and show them folks trapped in them cars how cool it is to
ride bikes in the metro. Wearing of costumes is highly encouraged."

hmmm...costumes!!!

Route details:

"START at UP AS Parking lot, out to Commonwealth( Iglesia ni Kristo)
via Vanguard Bldg. Rd., Right to Commonwealth, left to Tandang Sora,
left to Visayas Ave., right Congresssional, left to Mindanao, left to
North Ave., right to Agham through BIR road, right East Ave., pass
through EDSA to Timog, left Morato, right E. Rodriguez, left Gilmore,
straight to Ortigas, left EDSA, right to P. Tuazon Cuabo, left to 20th
Ave., right to Aurora, left to Anonas, right at Maginhawa. End at
Pulot-Pukyutan- a row of small restos just outside the UP Diliman Campus.

Estimated route length is 20km. Estimated speed is 10-15 kph.

Route may still change depending on the riding and traffic conditions
on the day of the ride.

Again, a reminder that this is a night ride . Bike lights and blinkers
are highly recommended and encouraged. Helmets are a must!"

spanky got a date

2006-09-19T16:31:00.000+08:00

After two months of planning, anticipation, and rainchecks (literally), my Monkey finally gets set-up with JM's GF. By GF we mean his ca. 1994 Gary Fisher Advance, which was immaculately restored to it's original color. Hmm, if I ever need Spanky repainted, I know who to go to for sure!

JM resurrected his old ride by converting it to a singlespeed. He runs a 38x18 gear combo - which a higher ratio than my standard 32x18. Suffice to say JM is a strong rider to push that gear, and he left me behind in the climbs! Spanky couldn't keep up with his GF. However, in tight singletrack and fire road downhills, the Monkey led the way.

Quick report onthe Kenda Klaw XT's - I LIKE EM! Seems to have a bit more sidewall bite - especially on off-camber trail sections and ruts. I think I'll keep em on for a bit. Slightly more rolling resistance than the Ignitors, but I appreciate the added traction in sketchy conditions, even though the Kenda's seem be a bit narrower.

Another thing - the blasted creaking is still there, despite the new Titanium bottom bracket. Seems like the crank arms are a bit worn down where they connect to the bottom bracket spindle. Looks like I'm going shopping for a brand-new, old-stock, square-taper, 4-arm crank. Preferably powdercoated red!

Spanky and I.

JM and GF. Ganda ng GF niya, no?

Spanky and GF getting to know each other and admiring the view.

Next project: a threesome with Jay's 1x1. Hehehe

P.S. I reverted to my tried, tested and tattered WTB SST-XR saddle (which was the saddle on Schwinndy), for the following reasons:

1. Leather saddles are more comfy than synthetic types.
2. Titanium rails soak some of the vibrations from the trail
3. It's lighter!

:-P

The Monkey's Klaw !!!- what's your style?

2006-09-10T21:43:00.000+08:00

Instead of riding this weekend, I decided to give Spanky some loving attention :)

For starters, a new saddle to replace the aging WTB SST Ti one.

Yep - the Wrench Wench! Nice and comfortable too.

I also slapped on my second set of tires - Kenda Klaw XTs. They've got a m ore aggresive tread pattern than the previous Maxxis Ignitors, which are taking a sabbatical and will be re-installed when it's the dry season again. Unlike the Ignitors, the Klaws have front and rear-specific treads. It should make for an interesting comparison. Small caveat, though - there's a slight wobble with the rear tire. It seems like it wasn't molded in a perfect circle. My rear wheel is aligned, by the way.

Kenda Klaw XT rear tire

Kenda Klaw XT front tire

Finally, in an attempt to get to the bottom of an annoying clicking sound fromt he drivetrain, I've put on another FSA Ultimax Ti BB - this time with a carbon fibre shell and a wider, 113mm spindle. The old FSA Ti BB is still in tiptop shape, however. So I guess the only way to find out is to GET OUT AND RIDE!

1x1 inaugural

2006-09-03T21:40:00.000+08:00

Well, it's finally fully-built. The mean green singlespeed machine, Jay's Surly 1x1, is fully operational.

It feels solid, yet light - considering Jay put in a pair of huge Maxxis 26x2.5 tires in there.

So for its baptism of dirt, we took it down to Sta. Rosa.

Mannito decided to wear his vintage (say early-90's) race shirt from the Survival Race series. As you can see, it fits him nicely. Dig the day-glo colors.

Hey, it's me!

Jay hasn't been riding regularly, thus, he is allowed a discount on mountain tax.

Taking advantage of the dry weather, we cut into Pinyahan Trail - a nice singletrack stretch that passes through some pineapple plantations.

It's tight and here I am trying to manage a switchback and climb. Tried three times to clean it, but I failed to pedal all the way up.

Ain't he a proud daddy?

Near the end of the ride we "sessioned" on a set of dirt stairs. Mannito took his Santa Cruz Heckler down, and I did it too on Spanky. Jay decided not to, so he bought us lunch. Well, at least that was the arrangement!

VISA

2006-08-29T17:10:00.000+08:00

Got up at the crack of dawn today to go to the US Embassy for my VISA interview. I'm scheduled to leave for training in Pennsylvania and New York sometime in the near future, hence the need to queue up and dress up. I'll spare you ALL the details.

Is there any bike content in this? Why of course! Our principal is the publisher of Bicycling and Mountain Bike magazines.

And guess what? Dirt Rag's HQ is in Pittsburgh, PA. Hmm...looks like some commuting is in order!

Speaking of Dirt Rag - my Dirt Rag 15th Anniversary Edition jersey arrived today. It's a L, which fits a bit relaxed, but its cooooool. Will possibly ride with it soon.

No, that's not me in the photo!

I also got a Primal Wear Clive Barker Edition Elect Rick jersey as a gift. Thanks A!!! ;-)

Again, NO, that's not me ON the jersey hehe

just like old times

2006-08-26T18:52:00.000+08:00

Former futbol team-mate, bike buddy, and all-around good guy Toby phoned earlier today, inviting yours truly for an afternoon bike ride in either Maarat or Sta Rosa. Due to possible inclement weather (dark clouds), we decided to hit the trails in Sta Rosa, just to be safe. Maarat is fun but the mud has a notorious clay-like texture that absolutely gets into everything - bearings, bottom brackets, fingernails, ears, in between teeth. HAHA!

It's nice to ride once again with Tobes. A long time ago he and I competed in the 55km Survival Race - which was sheer torture (though we both finished, despite getting split up). He's got a fresh Giant Anthem which is just begging to be ridden. We joined up with 2 of his friends and headed up to the trails.

My weapon of choice? Spanky of course!

Due to time constraints, we stuck to the main trail. The singletrack and plantation areas were off-limits due to mud and ruts. We had a blast though, and I was grateful he invited me.

On our way home, it started raining cats and dogs. Like limited visibility on the road. That's it, no riding tomorrow, the trails are slush.

At least I did manage a birthday ride!

HA HA HA!

2006-08-25T00:46:00.000+08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

Ok, now that's out of the way, back to the bikes!

Possible birthday rides this weekend, but the weather hasn't been cooperating. Been raining most of the week.

We shall see.

I'm 34, in case anyone's wondering.

SSWC 2006

2006-08-22T20:05:00.000+08:00

Yep, you read that right. The 2006 Single Speed World Championships were just concluded in Stockholm, Sweden. Congratulations to the new champ, Norwegian Sveinung Björköy! Brian Keich of the USA and Swede Luca Mara round out the podium. Sveinung got this wicked tattoo for his efforts:

If you want to check out more SSWC2006 fun, check out this thread.

You can also check out the official site.

Incidentally, a beer-drinking contest was held to decide who would be next year's host. Scotland won!

Hmmm...I guess I have time to train (and save) then! Hehehe

Jake takes the cake

2006-08-21T11:39:00.000+08:00

All Terra lent me a Kona Jake to play around with.

As you can see, it's a cyclocross bike. OK, in lay man's terms, it's like a road bike that can accomodate knobby tires. It's shod with 700x35C tires - wish my nice, fat Maxxis Ignitors fit in there, but alas, no. Riding with drop bars takes getting used to. Oh, it also has gears! I tweaked the bar position for a more trail-friendly riding position (read: more upright). Which means my hands would be positioned on the brake hoods. Yes, you read it right. Trail-friendly. Cyclocross bikes can take to the dirt. So off I went to the familiar trails of Sta Rosa for some rainy-day action. I figure the narrower cyclocross tires will not get bogged down in the mud.

The short road ride to the trailhead was an eye-opener. The drop bars let me get aerodynamic, and the road gears made the tarmac roll by effortlessly. The Jake's fast, yet not at all twitchy like a road bike. The Shimano STI levers allowed me to shift without taking my hands off the brake hoods - the default position I chose when riding this bike.

Which is perfect, because I found myself shifting through the gears a lot - especially on the climbs. I was surprised by the sure-footedness of the bike on the wet roads and damp trail. Bunny-hopping over humps was not a problem, though the aluminum frame rides a bit harsh. My opting to inflate the tires a bit to avoid pinch flats surely contributed to the chattery ride.

Rolling terrain was fun, but the last section of trail in Sta Rosa is a long stretch of dirt road that goes downhill, with sweeping turns and blind corners to boot. I shifted into the big ring and hammered away, curious as to how far I can push the bike (and myself). Jake rides fast - and as I rattled my way downhill, I quickly realized its caveat. While getting up to speed is easy, slowing down isn't! Cantilver brakes and wet rims aren't the most efficient means of stopping, and after a few white-knuckle moments, I decided to brake waaaaay before the turns.

Road ride back to the car was fun! Nothing like shifting into the big ring, going aero, and putting the hammer down.

It's faster than the Monkey, for sure, but as for stability and confidence in the rough stuff, gimme the 29er anytime!

It's a novelty bike (wait a minute, someone said that of MY bike once)...but a fun ride just the same.

build build build!

2006-08-19T11:06:00.000+08:00

Here's Jay fawning over his grinch green Surly 1x1 frame. All he needs is a new crank, bb, chain and cables for it to get rolling - which means he's got a lot of leftover parts lying around. And quite a number of bikes too!

What you waiting for, man!?! Hehehe

Hail Team Dicky

2006-08-18T22:48:00.000+08:00

Need some inspiration? How about checking out Team Dicky.They've just completed the Trans Rockies ride - on singlespeed bikes! He's got one hell of a nice ride, with pink Industry 9 wheels. Yummy.

Thanks to JayP for the link!

prodigal posting

2006-08-18T11:08:00.000+08:00

it's been a while since I last posted – close to two months in fact – because of real-world, real-life concerns of mine. Rather than bore you with the details, here's a run down:

a) I've been busy with my day-job as EIC. It's fun and challenging at the same time.
b) Been traveling a bit because of above
c) Went to the province to fulfill a promise I made to my grandmother. Last year I told her I'd be there for her 100th birthday. So I flew in on August 1.
d) My aunt passed away on August 13.
e) My 100 year old granny passed away the next day
f) riding has been iffy thanks to the rainy season

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, it's back to our irregularly-scheduled programming.

now, THIS is a race

2006-06-27T11:57:00.000+08:00

The annual Great Divide Race kicked off last June 23. It's a self-supported race that runs through almost 2,500 miles of dirt roads and double track across America's back country. Crazy stuff!

Live updates available here.

I think some racers are competing on singlespeeds, 29ers, and fixed-gear bikes.

The Men's Health All Terrain Race

2006-06-18T16:55:00.000+08:00

Today was the day. The first-ever Men's Health All Terrain Race was held in Timberland, Maarat, Rizal. A month of intense preparation by Men's Health and Team All Terra has paid off. More than 300 trail runners and close to 100 mountain bikers converged at the venue...

I arrived at 6:30am, and almost immediately I was interviewed about the race! Overall the place had a good, positive vibe - everyone was having fun, no doubt spurred on by the giveaways and the host Paolo Abrera. I had to face the crowd as well, making an intro speech - but I kept it short knowing that these guys were chomping at the bit to tackle the 8km trail run. Next thing I know, off they went! After half an hour - the first finishers came trickling in - these guys are fit!

The start of the bike race was slightly delayed due to a shortage of registration forms - which is always a good thing! Polly, Vic, Jay and Goyo joined me for the ride - but we weren't racing (though they all registered!). We were in it for fun, and I was also doing double duty as an on-course marshal - making sure people are alright, etc. Had to assist a racer who had suffered leg cramps (he did the trail run too!). We did one lap of the course (racers did 2), and it was a good thing because as I rolled into the venue, the awarding ceremonies were in full swing! So sweaty me went up on stage to offer congratulations, shake hands and award medals. And yes, another speech haha!

Edmund did a wonderful job as race organizer, and more importantly, kept his grace under pressure. Lots of prizes were given away, and I think all the participants had fun, and identified themselves with the magazine.

Gotta go - have a radio guesting on DZMM at 6pm!

P.S. pics of the race to follow.

...King

2006-06-16T01:41:00.000+08:00

King had a riding accident last night. As he was overtaking a fellow rider along Libis, the other cyclist swerved to avoid a manhole. Their handlebars got tangled up and both riders went down. The other cyclist landed on top of King, and the result being King broke his left leg just below the shin.

Edmund and I rushed to the scene and took him to Medical City. Doctor said the swelling must go down before they try to set it. Surgery may be required but it's too early to say.

It was a big blow to our preparations for the Men's Health All Terrain Race this Sunday. It's terrible when something like this happens, but at the same time we are lucky that nothing more serious occurred.

Get well soon, King!

Chasing an Epiphany

2006-06-11T22:07:00.000+08:00

So...No inaugural single speed ride, the group ride I was supposed to trailmaster for didn't materialize, and Mickey couldn't make it today. Guess it was time for me to do some soul-o riding.

Off to Sta Rosa I go, I haven't ridden there in a month (been riding Maarat), and I set off on my own at 730am to beat the heat. Apparently I hadn't left early enough, as it was hot and humid on the early climbs. I was sweating buckets. I normally do not wear gloves on these climbs, but due to excessive sweating my grips became quite slick, so on the gloves went. Took a minute o two to recover after each hillclimb and at around 830am I was at the bukohan/Gatorade stop. Anthony, one of the local riders who knows the trails like the backs of his hands, was telling me about this new section of trail he discovered a few weeks ago, and invited me to check it out.

Anthony rides an Ellsworth Epiphany, and we set off at a pretty good pace. We tear thru the trails we normally ride - Spanky and I are doing our darned best trying to keep up with Anthony. I decide to keep a few bike lengths back - for safety purposes. Once we hit the doubletrack downhills though, Anthony just lets it rip and gets away easily. Hey, he's got gears! And 5 inches of suspension travel, front AND rear.

We enter this new trail (he calls it Anthony's trail) and it's a tight and twisty affair. My eyes are working overtime - watching Anthony's lines, his tires, and keeping an eye on the trail too. It's a great trail - we even ride along a ridge...till it starts to point down.

The first dip was alright, actually, except for a fallen banana tree that blockes the run out. So I had to dab and navigatge my way around it. The second dip, well, I think it was a ten-foot crest we rode down. It had loose soil and as I was following Anthony down (he cleaned it), my rear wheel slid out from underneath me and I took a tumble to the left. After a brief equipment check and a few chuckles we were on our way. I think I tweaked my groin. Ouch.

Anthony says there's another trail that invloves more ridge-riding, that leads down to the national highway and back to Paseo. Since he was pressed for time (he had a 10am meeting), we decided to hit that the next ride. We blasted through Duck trail and I try my best to keep up. Braking less and trusting my tires more (the very same ones that slipped under me - go figure). We part ways at the bottom of the trail and I take a break at an outpost and contemplate on whether to reverse the whole ride or just climb back up the gravel road and have a second helping of Duck.

Pedaling up the gravel road I start debating with myself what to do...the sun is beating down on me now and I decide to Duck it. Don't want to push myself too hard, seeing that the MH All-Terrain Race is next week. Hehe.

29er or 26er : which is better?

2006-06-10T22:14:00.000+08:00

Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn. As long as you are out having fun with your bike!

At any rate, here's an interesting/ongoing study conducted by cyclingnews.com. They've set up two almost-identical Seven IMX hardtails. Only diff being the wheel size...

Curious? Check it out here.

On a totally unrelated note, the planned INAUGURAL SINGLE SPEED RIDE has been CANCELLED due to a lack of participants. I'm a bit bummed since I sent the shout out A MONTH AGO. Anyway, life goes on..

Every ride for me is a single speed ride anyway!!! :)

pre-ride 2

2006-06-08T21:10:00.000+08:00

Ok, this time we DID the route. hehe.

We only did 1 lap, however, since this was an exploratory ride. Have to tell you though, the course is a bit...intense.

Inside the section called Roxas I stalled in the middle of a rocky climb and couldn't power out. Bummer! DanDan took his singlespeed along - with a 32x14 gearing. He cleaned the same section where I stalled in. The guy is a monster hehe. Spanky shone on the downhills though, and the big wheels soaked up the step-like bumps, and felt sure-footed in off-camber sections.

After Roxas we took a nice gravel road down to what they call The Nursery. Since this was an exploratory ride, King and DanDan were looking for a way through The Nursery and back up to the main road. Aside from the road we just took, it was either of two heinous climbs. By heinous I mean granny-gear and biggest-cog heinous. Your lowest possible gear. Guess what? I don't have gears! So walk it I did. I think I'll volunteer to be a race marshal hehe.

It is, however, a race course, and am sure participants will be able to go up these climbs (walking is an option of course). Hey, as long as the racers have fun!

Here are some pics:

Me after the climb in Roxas:

Trying out the Turner Flux:

The technical descent after Roxas:

Part of the heinous climb:

Panoramic shot from the top:

pre-ride 1

2006-06-03T20:54:00.000+08:00

We rode Maarat again today, presumable to pre-ride the Men's Health All Terrain Race course - organized by All Terra. It was also the inaugural ride of Jay's bright orange Santa Cruz Heckler, his new do-it-all, ride-anything machine. Manitou also has one on order, but due to some complications, it wasn't ready for the ride. So he was on his trusty, vintage Cannondale. Polly took along his Turner 5-spot. Neil and Alvin also joined us, and Neil rode Mickey's tricked-out Voodoo Sobo.

The group got split up, with King (the race director) going off to check out the RUN part of the course. We hung around waiting for the rest of the group to catch up, and decided to bike down to Ka Vergel's instead, since we weren't familiar with the course - the route was all in King's head! We had a great time, regardless. Lots of descents and short climbs, as well as ruts and tech sections. A nice, muddy ride it was, and Neil, who was on his second time on a mountain bike, went the distance.

Sorry, no photos this time!

to Wawa we go

2006-05-27T21:57:00.000+08:00

After recovering a bit at Ka Tobias', it was time to hit the trails. We're going to Wawa Dam in Montalban, Rizal. I know it's a long ride ahead, and I'm glad I didn't go all out up the wall.

There was more climbing to be done, albeit on dirt roads, and after another short break we head down into some steep and technical single track. Dips, ruts and off-camber turns...a few stream crossings and some mud. The trail has everything. Lots of fun and the Monkey shined. I rode a bit tentatively because I wasn't familiar with the area...

We pause for a "lunchbreak", and DanDan and King say the next bit is a long hike-a-bike. They weren't kidding. I figure around 800m of climbing, with Spanky on my back. We could see one of the numerous sheer rock faces that made this area famous for rock climbing. We even ran into some intrepid MTBers riding down the same trail we were huffing and puffing up. No helmets too, all four of them. Ride safe guys.

Finally we are spat on on a hilltop clearing, where we snack on some duhat, aka black plum, which was offered to us by some locals. I rehydrate and much on some M&Ms. Edmund said that after this part is a long downhill that leads towards Wawa. We hopped on our bikes and after a short singletrack ride, he wasn't kidding.

Before us is a long winding dirt road that stretches down towards the valley. Sweet. Some corners look a bit tricky. But we go for it. King gets away first, and I find myself following him down. The corners are nice and sweeping, but the loose rocks, ruts and gravel make things a bit sketchy. I think I've gotten the hang of piloting Spanky, by steering not just with my arms but by using my hips and body weight. Niiiice. Carved that corner. Oh no...two mounds of dirt have conspired to become humps. No choice but to air it out. Smooth. Spanky handles like a dream. I don't even have to pedal - that's how fast I was going. Not fast enough, I guess, as DanDan sneaks up on me. He has gears! And full-suspension! The cheat! hehe

The downhill run was a blast, and we recover from our adrenaline rush at Aling Norma's carinderia. Once a hangout for climbers in the area, business has been a bit slow for her thanks to some municipal regulation of charging a P500 for access - whether you are an individual or a group. Hence, climbers have decided to make a stand and boycott the area. I guess some dialogue is needed. Hope it gets sorted out, I think to myself, as I help myself to some sinigang, a soup made from tamarind, with some chilis, pork bits and vegetables.

After settling our tab we're off to the Wawa Dam. It used to be a rock and limestone quarry, but has now become a protected area, and it's quite scenic. I'll let the photos do the talking.

After Wawa, its a road ride back to the town proper. Vic and I manage to get left behind, and somehow overshoot Chow King. Luckily we had our wits about, and doubled back to find the boys digging into their bowls of halo-halo - a local refreshment made of crushed ice, fresh and glazed fruits, topped with ice cream. Yummy. A perfect end to the ride.

Climbing The Wall

2006-05-27T21:16:00.000+08:00

Well, today it looked like Spanky and I bit off a bit more than we could chew:

1)riding with Team All Terra (notoriously fast guys)
2)riding from Maarat to Wawa Dam (uncharted territory for me)
3)riding up The Wall (2.8kms of paved road, that points straight up!)

While riding in Maarat with Team All Terra isn't that new to me, I knew sooner or later I'd have to take the singlespeed up the famous Wall - and today was the day. We parked in Chow King and pedaled our way towards Timberland. The start of the wall is a nice little dip, that lets you build up your speed before hitting a steep switchback - the first of 5 or so sharp turns that head up the mountain.

So there I was with quite a bit of momentum heading towards the first elbow. I made the turn alright, but I had to stand up and hammer to maintain my speed. Not good. I was hoping to conserve my legs by sitting and spinning early in the climb. Yeah right.

The next bend was another left-hand turn, and notoriously steep. I was going at a good clip and my legs and lungs felt good, so I decided to carve through it. Again I felt my momentum drop - a feeling somehow magnified by Spanky's 29-inch wheels. I decided to duck into a little roadside cul-de-sac to build up some momentum.

It got steeper after that and after another elbow I decide to stop for a breather. I'm joined by Vic, who's ridden up the wall once before, King, and Edmund (All Terrans graciously babysitting us hehe). I bite into an apple and soon after we're pedaling up. I've resorted to making U-turns and circling round to maintain my momentum. It kinda works, in a two-steps forward, one-step back kinda way. At least it's progress!

After the fourth elbow I feel like my heart's going to explode. Vic decides to take a leak (perfect timing!) so I put a foot down and catch my breath. The rest of Team All Terra have come back down to check on us and after a short bit we're off again.

One last bend and one last push before reaching the top at Ka Tobias' store. I feel like I'm dancing on the pedals as I stand up and hammer the final 100 or so meters. I'm kinda spent, but happy to have made it up - with just three stops!

Did I feel like getting off the bike and walking it? I have to admit, the thought never crossed my mind during the climb - maybe because even considering it would be a sign of mental weakness, and would have did me in.

Muddy Monkey

2006-05-23T22:28:00.000+08:00

almost forgot to post this...this is Spanky right after the La Mesa ride :)

La Mesa

2006-05-22T21:09:00.000+08:00

Yesterday I was invited to ride in the La Mesa EcoPark - a 2,700-hectare forest reserve/watershed that not only is a nice green spot in our congested city, but is a source of almost all of the Metro Manila's clean water. They're gradually opening up access to the trails there, and the area has become a nice venue for races. Thing is, there is a move to develop part of the park into a housing complex. Not good. That would mean the end of this pristine and really beautiful area.

Anyway, we were a big group - mix of newbies and vets, and after a briefing by the Bantay Kalikasan reps, we set off on the trails with a guide leading the way. I'd ridden there before, and the guide was gracious enough to let me lead some of the pack (the more seasoned riders) through the 17kms. It was a blast going down the double-track trails. I even caught some air on two lil jumps - and Spanky surprised me with its surefootedness and stability. One particularly hairy section was before a water crossing, where I took a more aggressive line(to set me up for the climb out of the water), and ended up rolling through a patch of rocks. Spankers just took it all in stride - am sure if I was on a 26er I'd be bouncing around!

Once in a while we'd stop and regroup - and one hilarious instance was when we were resting in a bamboo shed. Dominic had already broken a bench when he sat on it (rickety, weatherbeaten thing), and so him and the rest of the guys (10 of em or so) sat down on another bamboo bench. Minutes later there was a loud KERAAASSHHHH!!! and all of the guys were on their butts on the ground. It was too funny! Luckily another rider was able to snap a few photos of the debacle. We all had a good laugh. I must get a copy of that pic hehe.

We headed back to the campsite/parking lot and I was entertaining thoughts of going on another lap - I just wanted to get my P200 entrance fee worth hehe. No takers so I abandoned the idea of soloing it - it is doable though as the terrain is of the easy, rolling variety. Great for people who are new to the sport.

So no extra lap for me and 17km short, but hey, I made new friends and we all had a blast!

stormy weather

2006-05-15T20:59:00.000+08:00

Don't blame me for feeling a bit angsty. Mother Nature had just decided to send over a storm this weekend - so, no riding for me, since the trails are going to be a mess.

It's all good actually, since it allows me to catch up on things I've been kinda neglecting. Darn, single-speeding is a full-time job hahaha

Speaking of which, Jay and I are trying to rustle up a group of single-speeders for a group ride on June 11. Incidentally this is the day before Independence Day. So yes, it's going to be a fun ride. So far we have a dozen brave souls signed up. Hope they show up! Geared riders are welcome too - but WE WILL TAPE YOUR SHIFTERS. Mwahahaha!

Voodoo Chile

2006-05-08T23:24:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was Mickey and his Voodoo's coming out party. After finally finding a helmet that fit his noggin, it was off to the trails in Sta. Rosa. Mickey's never been off-road and after giving him some pointers, we pushed off. It's always cool to hit the trails with new riders - they're always positive and end up having a lot of fun (well, I have yet to encounter someone who's actually given up on mountain biking after his or her first real off-road ride...guess I'm lucky!)...

Jay, Polly and Jennie joined us for the inaugural and it was quite a combination of characters! The ride starts off with a few climbing sections (why are most rides this way? Beats me!) And we advised Mickey to just take it easy and walk up the hills if he has to, in order to conserve his energy for the singletrack and plantation rides we will be doing later on. He did clean the first two hills - seems like Mickey (who was my high school varsity team mate in football) still has a lot of grunt hehe. Once over the top we took the usual break at the Gatorade stop. We rode some more and had another break at this little store that serves home-cooked lumpia (fried rolls stuffed with vegetables) and quekquek (quail eggs coated with batter and deep-fried! nasty stuff!)...Jennie finished of 9 QQs! I just had a glass of Coca-Cola. I normally can't eat too much solid food during a ride...not sure why. I stick to fruits, a bite-sized bar of Cloud 9, or if there's nothing else, a Powerbar.

Break over, we headed into the tight singletrack. To give Mickey some confidence we lowered his saddle a bit - and he did appreciate the more control it offered in the bumpy and twisty bits. He still has to master weight distribution and shifting - but that will all come as he rides the Voodoo more. He was asking some nonsense like "isn't singlespeeding better since you don't have to shift?"...funny guy.

His bike performed flawlessly throughout the ride - and after the downhill he remarked how his rear brake got stronger - finally the Avid Juicy 5 disc brake had worn in...he also said his hands hurt - perhaps from gripping the bar too tight...he also had no gloves on...but otherwise the man was stoked, and I'm happy for him. Would be a shame to let go of that Voodoo after I helped him spec it and all hehe

Here are some pics from the Voodoo's baptism of dirt...

Jay, Polly, Mickey and Jennie:

Another shot of the group:

and here's Spanky:

2006 Tour Of The Fireflies (I)

2006-04-24T21:58:00.000+08:00

They say a picture is worth a thousand words...
but what if that picture is of several thousand riders?

Here's the first set. Starting point was in Tiendesitas, Pasig. We headed off towards Quezon City via San Juan...

2006 Tour Of The Fireflies (II)

2006-04-24T21:57:00.000+08:00

From QC our motley assortment of riders turned towards the old city of Manila, where we cruised through Intramuros, and cycled past Luneta. The organizers set up a rest stop along Roxas Boulevard, allowing the 3000-or-so bicycles to consolidate ranks.

Different spokes for different folks...there was a recumbent bicycle, lots of BMXers, a guy ona vintage town bike (complete with hat, suspenders and saddle shoes), mountain bikers, road riders...name the tribe, and for sure it was there. My bro even took his folding bicycle! AND Yes, even the 29er singlespeeder was representin' hehe.

2006 Tour of the Fireflies (III)

2006-04-24T21:56:00.000+08:00

From Manila we took EDSA and the South Super Highway en route to the Makati CBD. It felt empowering riding our bikes on these normally busy thoroughfares. Instead of being gridlocked with cars and buses, the bikes ruled!

We took a well-deserved break in Makati, and passed through Mandaluyong, and finally back to Tiendesitas via EDSA and Ortigas Avenues. We finished the ride at around 1pm, and rewarded ourselves with a hearty lunch.

All in all, a fun, albeit hot day, but the cause and the camaraderie, was well worth it.

Looking forward to next year!

of marathons and such

2006-04-22T10:40:00.000+08:00

No dirt rides this weekend for me and Spanky the Monkey. I'm leeching off a Wi-Fi hotspot right now, test-driving a dinky Sony VAIO VGN-TX27P for work. It's pretty neat, and tiny...perfect if you're say, commuting to work on your bike.

Speaking of test drives, I just came back from a drive to and from Donsol, Sorsogon. The King and I, along with the T3 gang, got to swim with the Whale Sharks that are prevalent in the area at this time of year. It was surreal seeing them emerging from the murkiness (water was murky due to plankton blooms these gentle giants feed on). Total mileage is a bit over 1000km, and driving time was a shade over 24 hours, round trip. Yes, I was at the wheel of a Ford Escape the whole time. Lovely.

Oh this weekend is also the Cecon Twenty Four Hour Mountain Bike Challenge. King is competing as a solo rider. He is crazy. During the drive to Donsol he was also blabbing some nonsense about doing it on a single-speed. Hehe. Good luck King, and show em how it's done!

I am riding tomorrow, though, along with a thousand or so other riders, for the 8th Tour of the Fireflies. The Firefly Brigade is made up of driven individuals who promote cycling as an alternative, enviromentally sensible means of transportation, as well as other outreach programs. Helmets off to them. Our country needs more people like the 'Flies.

I'll be taking a camera along for the ride tomorrow, so expect some photos :)

Holy Thursday ride, Batman!

2006-04-13T21:22:00.000+08:00

Today Jay, myself and Manitou headed out to Survival Trail - a short, intense 15km trail system that has its share of ups, downs, and technical sections...

The first bit is a steep dirt road climb, that, due to a recent construction of a school at the top of the hill, has been partially cemented. We normally stop at the midway point to catch your breath, but this time, I was in for a surprise. The monkey just wanted to keep on going. This isn't seated climbing we're talking about folks. This is stand-up-and-pedal-for-all-you're-worth-coz-you-ain't-got-no-gears territory. We cleaned the climb without stopping - something I've only done once before, on the Salsa Caballero (full-suspension+gears). Yes, I was in shock, and in awe. The more I ride the Surly, the more I'm enamored by it hehe

We crossed a "river" and I decided to test the monkey's stability by motoring through the shallows...no problems there. My virgin-white Sidi's got wet, though! They did seem to stretch, and fit better, after at least.

Here's Manitou gingerly crossing the river. I swear, the next time, he'll be pedaling through it! Well, at least his feet stayed dry!

There's more than a few technical sections to have some fun on. Here I am "dropping" the monkey - the big wheels just roll over stuff!

Erosion has played a big part in shaping the area - deep ruts and ravines dominate some sections. A few are rideable, a few are stricly hike-a-bike.

Watch out for the rut, Manitou!

Strictly Hike-a-Bike

Oh, here's the obligatory disco-daddy shoe shot:

For a short trail, this place has everything. Lots of shaded sections, technical climbs, steep descents. It's also rideable in reverse, so you can effectively double your mileage, and fun at the same time.

Here are the three of us goofing around:

And here's the monkey after the downhill run. My rims were hot to the touch - seems I need to brake a bit harder (or earlier) going into turns with this bike - it feels much faster than the old SS 26er...

Survival trail never lets me down! And we had our post-ride celebration in Hosseins - with some Lamb Curry and Kebabs. Yum!

Later that afternoon I decided to experiment. I flipped the Mary bars (once again) and rode around the city, taking advantage of the Holy Week's lack of automotive traffic. I think I can get used to the bar that low. Wheelies and lofting the front end need a different technique, though.

I'll probably give it a shot in the dirt this weekend :)

Thanks to Jay and Manitou for the recent pics!

next day, same place, strike 3

2006-04-09T21:09:00.000+08:00

I ditched the bolt-on skewers and slapped on the Ringle QR's that came with my hubs, in the hopes that these would cure my skewer blues. Closed them down good, and I think they should do the trick.

Polly and I met up with BJ and hit the trails in Sta Rosa once again. Just like the day before, the bike performed flawlessly, until...

After regrouping at a shady spot, we were preparing to push off towards Duck trail, when I noticed my front tire was flat. Turns out a big-ass thorn had pierced both tire and tube - my precious Salsa tubes! Anyway, a quick patch job and a lot of pumping action (dang these 29er tubes take a lot of air!), and we were back in business.

On another note, my adidas shoes, which I got on a "spesha dear" from Hup Leong Bikes in Singapore last year, finally kicked the bucket. Here's a brief history:

- after 2 months, the soles came unglued. Luckily the friendly neighborhood cobbler was able to sew the soles back on. Good job on it too.
- on the 3rd month, the retainer holding the ratchet strap on the left foot delaminated. Soon after, it's opposite number followed suit. Superglue to the rescue!
- not even a year into its use, the sole and other rubber bits have begun to crack. not good.
- earlier today, I lost the left racheting strap when my foot caught on some vegetation. That was the last straw.

BJ had an inside line on some nice Sidi Bullets in Cycling Zone in Alabang. So we swung by on the way home and I tried them on. Fit like an Italian glove, and they were the last pair. The only catch? Well, they're disco daddy white!

Groovy baby. Definitely will take some getting used to hehe

Not too bad a weekend, I think we've tamed the monkey!

i think i know why it's called the monkey

2006-04-08T22:16:00.000+08:00

The short road-ride up to the trail head showed off the rolling advantage of the 29er. I ran the same gear ratio as the Tingle, 32:18, but due to the larger wheels, I had gained 10% more gear inches – in essence the equivalent of 32:16. Great for the flats and cement roads, but the taller gearing and added weight of the steel frame had me worried about the dirt climbs ahead...

Same basic tenets of singlespeeding apply here - maintain momentum, and pick your lines carefully. Suffice to say, the monkey loves to roll. Once you get it up to speed, it just keeps on going. Here's a series of pics taken by Manitou on the second climb in Sta Rosa, which was a surprise right hand turn near the end hehe

Yes, it's called a Monkey coz it likes to climb. Despite running my old gearing, I have to admit, the bike dispelled all my doubts about it in that single climb.

The rest of the ride was on dirt roads and single-track. I did get bogged down a few times - one during a tight switchback to a short climb and another on a short but steep rise - nothing major, just have to get used to the bike.

Bombing down dirt roads, the bike was super stable, where the Tingle would be a bit skittery. Smooth is how I'd describe the ride. This bike plain ROCKS.

And yes, we're riding again tomorrow!

skewered (aka strike 2)

2006-04-08T21:46:00.000+08:00

This morning started like any other riding day. Met up with Polly, Vic, Jay and Manitoo. Introduced the Monkey to the boys (and other riders who happen to notice the big-ass wheels), invited them to take it for a spin while I put my gear on. It’s interesting to see their faces as they tool around with the Monkey – feedback was positive, mostly. Note that some of these guys ride high-zoot bikes…well, Vic was riding a vintage Trek 8500 hardtail – since his Jamis had a cracked pivot! Manitoo was on board his equally classic but trusty Cannondale SE1000, Jay took his rigid singlespeed Specialized Hard Rock, and Polly had the Turner 5 spot.

After adjusting my chain tension, I proceeded to torque down on my bolt-on skewer, then – SNAP! The axle sheared, scattering skewered skewer bits and the Durly TuggNut everywhere... and there I was with an unrideable Monkey! Talk about starting off a relationship on the wrong foot. Luckily there were several options: purchase A DT Swiss skewer (pricey), an XTR skewer (pricier), or borrow a rear quick release from the bike shop’s rental bike (free!)…guess which option I took? I thanked the folks at Sabak profusely, and we set out on our merry way...

slight hiccup (strike 1)

2006-04-07T23:42:00.000+08:00

While tweaking the positioning of the Mary bar (trying to run it inverted), I noticed that one of my grip’s lockrings had the remnants of an allen wrench embedded inside it. Looks like the LBS’ mechanic forgot to mention this slight detail. This made grip removal nigh-on impossible. I resorted to some creative persuasion – which consisted of a block of wood, a hammer and some lube at midnight, to remove the offending part. I think I woke the household (and the neighbors as well), but after brief struggle, it was free. Changed my mind on flipping the bars, as the position seemed a bit too aggressive for the rough stuff, and I figure I need to get used to the whole 29er deal first...and adjusted the spacers to drop the bars down slightly. Looks like we’re all set for the inaugural dirt ride...

Spankin' New Monkey

2006-04-06T12:15:00.000+08:00

Finally, it's built, and it's ready to rock:

The Tingle was the "donor" for a few parts - namely the Mary bar, Boone ti cog, crankset and Ti BB. I'll build the Tingle up soon, I promise, just have to wait a while for a few bits...and will it be geared, or shall it remain single?

I'll have to fine-tine a few things, namely bar height. It's either I swap spacers or flip the Mary. If I flip the bar I'm thinking of wrapping it in white Salsa grip tape. Hmmm.

The headset and red Magura brakes came off the Caballero (which was sold to fund this project hehe)...

Tires are Maxxis Ignitors, and I have a spare set of Kenda Klaws for the wet season, as well as spare tubes...

Had to use a chaintug (Surly TugNut)...the rear wheel would slip whenever I'd try to pull a wheelie...

Initial ride was on tarmac, and a short jaunt on a grassy field nearby...and there's something to say about how stable the big wheels are. Handling surprised me, no sluggishness at all, and you can feel the wheels keeping their momentum. Hmmm...

True test will be this weekend, when the Monkey gets its baptism of dirt!

Ride on!

the day of the monkey

2006-04-03T00:04:00.000+08:00

Henceforth, I hereby decree that April 2, 2006 shall be declared as such. After securing my car in the airport parking lot, I boarded the first flight out of Manila, bound for Hong Kong, on a "surgical strike" to pick up the Karate Monkey.

I travelled light, with just my Deuter backpack crammed with the bare essentials, and strapped to it a folded pair of wheel bags which I borrowed from All Terra. Boarding the 0800H flight was slightly delayed, as our aircraft had just gotten in from SFO...

The flight was uneventful. I got a window seat but the window itselft was quite scratched up, making photo taking a hassle, so sorry, the usual airplane shots of engine, wing and sky won't be put up here :P

Touched down at around 1030H, and soon after, I was queuing up for HK immigration. Twenty minutes later, it was my turn at the booth, and Mr. Immigration Officer asked me how long I'd be staying in Hong Kong:

HKI: How long you staying in Hong Kong?
Me: Well, I plan to fly back to Manila tonight, since I am just going to the bike shop here. But if something comes up, and I can't, I'll be staying overnight.
HKI: Can I see your ticket?
(I hand him my ticket)
HKI: (raised voice in pidgin Engrish)YOUR RETURN FLIGHT IS TONIGHT, HOW COME YOU SAID YOU ARE STAYING OVERNIGHT?! TELL ME THE TRUTH, ANSWER MY QUESTION, HOW LONG ARE YOU STAYING IN HONG KONG?! AND WHY YOU SAY YOU MIGHT STAY TILL TOMORROW?!
Me: (In a calm tone) Well, I just want to be sure, just in case I can't do what I am supposed to do. It's OK, if I need to stay longer, I can re-book my flight.
HKI: (shouting in pidgin Engrish)WHAT YOU MEAN JUST IN CASE?! HOW COME YOUR RETURN TICKET IS TONIGHT?! ANSWER ME HOW LONG YOU STAY IN HONG KONG?!
Me: (In a calm tone once more, but looking at dead into his slanty eyes) I will leave tonight. There isn't a problem. Translated: You are the first HK local I have a face to face, human interaction with, and you are either power-tripping on me, do not understand English, or just a real acupuncture needle in the ass. Since you are doing such a bang-up job welcoming someone who is going to spend his hard-earned cash in your little island, I want to get the hell out of here as soon as I conclude my business. Just chill out, and pick your nose or something
He then shakes his head and stamps my passport, and hands it back to me along with my airline ticket. I glance at the stamp and it says "eligible to stay in Hong Kong for 14 days. I wanted to show it to him and say: I ONLY STAY ONE DAY! HOW COME YOU STAMP 14!!?!?!?

What a real buzz-kill, but am all optimistic as I secure my travel documents, and get my bearings.

1111H and I am on my way to catch the Airport Express train to Tsing Yi. From there I switch over to the Tung Chung line, get off at Lai King, then hop on the Tsuen Wan line and get off at Cheung Sha Wan...

Sorry, no pics of the rest of the train ride. They might think I am some sort of camphone perv. And I don't want to piss-off more locals hehe

I step out onto the streets, it's good to get some "fresh air". The area where Flying Ball is located is a mixed residential/business/school district, and thanks to their map, finding the shop was no problem at all. 1207H I hit paydirt.

The shop is chock-full of high-end goodies, with matching price tags to boot:

Hope components from the UK:

Ultra-light Tune components from Germany:

Speaking of ultra-light, they also had a carbon-fiber Pace rigid fork - for a 29er! The thing was crazy-light. Don't ask about the price tag!

They did have a speshar half-plice dear though (for half a frame haha):

Refusing to get side-tracked, I look for my contact, named "Bikeman", but found out it was his day off. So instead, I ended up talking to Mr. Lee, the shop's proprietor. I told him the first time I was at his shop, it was 15 years ago, when he was still located near Prince Edward station. We shared a laugh about how small his shop was, yet it was full of stuff. His shop is much bigger now...and it has more stuff too!

While Mr. Lee sorted out the Karate Monkey frame and rims, I looked around for other components I may need. Here is my haul:

- 1 pair of Salsa Pneumaticos Sympaticos inner tubes
- 1 pair of Kenda Klaw 29x2.1 Kevlar beaded tires
- 72 peices of black spoke nipples
- Surly 18T wide base singlespeed cog
- 1 set of Monty special compound brake pads for Magura HS33's
- 1 set of stock Magura HS33 pads
- 1 Karate Monkey frame
- 1 pair Salsa Delgado Cross rims

I had to control myself as it is easy to go overboard in a shop like Flying Ball. I had to stick to my game plan!

Everything was expertly packed by the FB crew. They didn't recommend that I carry-on the rims with the bags I borrowed, and instead gave me a taller Cannondale box to fit everything.

1332H Grabbed a taxi for a relaxed ride all the way to the airport, and if I play my cards right, I might be able to get on an earlier flight back home. HA! If that Immigrations Drone could see me now!

1410H I'm back at the airport, and find out that the earliest flight I could catch is at 1800H, which is still a lot better than my original 2100H booking. The counter will open at 1530H, so I chill out, have a late, late lunch, and grab some coffee with my new-found "friend".

I go back to the airline counter and they put me on the stand-by passenger list. They can't say if I will be able to get on the earlier flight, and that I have to come back at 1705H. Fine by me.

1710H I'm baaaaack and they say we have to wait till the last possible minute. The gate closes at 1740H and I wait anxiously as the seconds wind down...

1530H I get the GO! signal and the counter dude volunteers to take my bike box to the oversize baggage counter as he hands me my boarding pass. Gate 15 he says, you must run! What a kind soul, guess it's like karma for that my crap experience with Mr. Uptight.

I'm running but then there's a queue through immigrations! A family of fellow chance passengers queue up in the line next to me, and I start to worry, since their line is moving faster than mine!

1540H and I am through immigrations and x-ray and sprinting down the corridors to Gate 15. As I round the corner I was expecting an empty departure area, but lo and behold, people are lining up for boarding! They're going in by seat number, and since I am on 64E, I have some time to pick up the latest issue of Mountain Bike Rider, a UK mag.

1830H We are taxiing for take-off, and I start to scribble a draft of this post. As I stop to reflect on the eventful day, it occurs to me that I have actually spent more time on an airplane and in an airport than outside either...

2000H After a light dinner that was chased by a glass of red wine, I start wondering if I'll get hassled by my very own country's customs officers. I start to think of stuff to tell them. Oh well, we'll see!

2020H We've just disembarked and am now lining up for customs. At around 2045H I grab a trolley and head for the baggage carousels, and spot my box going round. I race after it and manage to rescue it before it starts another lap. Ok, time to compose myself, and head through customs. One last step...

2047H The customs officer asks for my baggage tag, and takes a look at the box:

Customs:Sir, ano laman niyan? Translated: Sir, what's inside the box?
Me: Lumang batalya ng bisikleta lang po Translated: Just an old bicycle frame :)
Customs: Ah OK.

I wheel the trolley out to the parking lot, grinning all the way. It's only when I load the box into my car that I let out a whoop of victory.

The Monkey has landed.

Now comes the better part: building it.

Then the best part: riding it.

Stay tuned!

Flying Ball Mission

2006-04-01T12:43:00.000+08:00

Finally, It's happening. Tomorrow morning I shall be boarding a flight bound for Hong Kong. Destination: Flying Ball Bicycle Co., And if all goes as planned, I'll be back here in Manila before midnight.

With my new Karate Monkey.

Yep, another bike. This time a slightly different beast from the Tingle. For once, the KM runs on bigger wheels - 29ers, in fact. We'll see how it the build goes - the KM is versatile enough to run gears or singlespeed. For now, here is the plan:

Frame: Surly Karate Monkey Frame & Fork
Headset: WTB Momentum GreaseGuard Headset (taken off the Caballero)
Stem: Salsa 21st Element Scandium Mountain Stem
Handlebar: On-One Mary Bar (taken off the Tingle)
Grips: Oury Lock Ons or Salsa Cork tape
Brakes: Magura HS-33 Hydraulic Rim Brakes (taken off the Caballero)
Seatpost: Salsa Shaft Seatpost (taken off the Caballero)
Saddle: WTB SST-XR with Titanium rails
Crankset: Shimano Deore with Salsa 32T chainring and FSA Ultimax Ti BB (taken off the Tingle)
Pedals: Time ATAC Alium Pedals
Cassette: Boone Ti 18T (taken off the Tingle)
Hubs: Ringle front and rear
Rims: Salsa Delgado Cross 700c
Tires: Maxxis Ignitor 29x2.1"

For the weight-weenies out there, I estimate the bike to weigh in at around 25-26 lbs. Not bad at all, considering this is a practical build (mostly carried over parts).

What shall become of the Tingle? We'll see. I can actually build her back up as a singlespeed once more parts come in (they are in transit), or maybe slap on some gears on her (what blasphemy!) hehe.

no way!!!

2006-03-26T22:25:00.000+08:00

The Terry Larrazabal Bikefest has a special guest for 2006 - trials and mountain bike legend Hans "No Way" Rey.

After the ride I hurried over to Rockwell to catch his demonstration, and boy, did he put on a show. I'm at a loss for words. Suffice to say, even at age 40, Hans Rey still has the skillz!

Pictures are worth a thousand words, and here are some snaps I took..enjoy!

More pics here

a ride a day...

2006-03-26T15:14:00.000+08:00

after a layoff of two weekends it was time to hit the trails once again. Saturday dawned with much apprehension - after all, I wasn't sure about my state of fitness after that hiatus. Rode down in Sta Rosa and the trails were bone dry - almost powdery in some parts of the climbs, making traction quite tricky. the Tingle's BB developed a clicking sound early on the ride, and I suspected a busted bearing (OH NO!). The ride went pretty well, which surprised me. It wasn't uneventful though, as Toffee's Intense Tracer lost a bolt in the drive side rear pivot. NOT GOOD. He was lucky that the frame wasn't damaged further. We were able to jury rig a temporary bolt which fitted perfectly. But still, what a bummer. Mannito (henceforth now known as Manitou) took a spill as well, when a wayward branch clipped his bar ends. He strained a chest muscle but he is excited about the imminent arrival of his Santa Cruz Heckler. Niiiiice.

Headed to All Terra to have the BB checked and all it needed was some tightening and lovin' grease. Elvin and Dom were there and asked me about the trails in Sta Rosa - how to navigate them, etc. They said they needed a trail guide for Sunday, so I, ermm, volunteered my services.

I was surprised to be riding in a big group - we were 12 riders all in all, but it was fun. I usually ride in a gang of four, which is a manageable number. I told them we'll take it easy coz I "ain't got no gears". hehe. The same tree that tagged Manitou caught Dom as well, despite warnings passed down through the group. Hmmm, maybe it's time to cut it down to size?

So two days, two rides (albeit same location), and am none the worse for wear. It's good to be back.

the Witch Doctor

2006-03-19T23:29:00.000+08:00

Here's my friend Mickey's 2005 Voodoo Sobo (Sobo means Soldier Deity), fresh off the mech's work area in our
local bikeshop (pardon the quality, only had a camera phone at the
moment):

Build details:

16" Voodoo Sobo frame
Manitou R7 Super 80 fork
Avid Juicy 5 brakes
SRAM X7 drivetrain
WTB Speed Disc Comp wheels
WTB Motoraptor Race 2.1 tires
Titec goodies all around

Geometry is great, and riding position is kinda upright (for now)
since Mickey's a newbie rider. He'll be ripping the local singletrack
soon though!

shit happens

2006-03-15T23:52:00.000+08:00

Went for my usual ride last Saturday, hitting the trails in Sta Rosa with Polly. As I did my morning ritual I noticed things were, ummm, runnier than normal. I thought it was a one-off thing, and drove south to meet the rest of the guys.

As I tried to put air in the Tingle's front tire, it deflated completely! Seems like something was wrong with the valve and it needed much higher pressure than what a hand pump could provide to stay closed. Luckily the nearby shop had a floor pump and that remedied the situation. Got myself a spare tube just in case...though I normally ride with two spares...I remember giving one to Ramon for the race...hmmmm...

The ride started out pretty normally - in fact, I felt good despite the heat. After the first set of dirt climbs, I waited for the rest of the pack and noticed my stomach was feeling a bit queasy. And I felt dehydrated, despite me downing a sports drink and sipping religiously from my hydration pack...

As the guys caught up I decided to dismount and rest for a while. They asked if I was OK and I recounted my early morning "experience"...we agreed that I would turn back and head for home, while they complete the ride.

Heading back I felt real bummed, but I was worried about my stomach. When I got home, my health quickly deteriorated - with feverish chills, lack of appetite and non-stop visits to the bathroom.

I slept for most of the day and night. Only getting up to go to the toilet and to replenish my lost fluid. A classic case of food poisoning.

Sunday morning had me throwing up. Funny thing is, I felt a lot better after puking my guts out. Tried to have a banana and some super-diluted Gatorade after that, and it kinda helped. Dinner was my first bowl of real food - consisting of chicken arroz caldo.

Monday night was my first go at "solid" food. And the fever has also left me. Tuesday was a lot better. And I even dared go to work earlier today. So, well on the way to recovery...BUT

...there goes my preparatin for the TLBF Singlespeed Race. There also goes my timetable for picking up the Monkey!

Oh well, some things aren't meant to be I guess. At any rate, I do get some time off work AND the bike, which may prove to be a good thing. Can't wait to start riding again!

it's a friday

2006-03-03T16:45:00.000+08:00

and am at work, daydreaming about this weekend's rides...hold on, I've been doing that since Wednesday!

racing is like an old girlfriend...

2006-02-26T20:57:00.000+08:00

What’s this? Why am I wearing a team jersey (yes, that's me second from the left). The boys at All Terra somehow convinced me to join them in the San Mig Lite Philippine Mountain Bike Pro Tour 2006 (say that three times, fast). My first (and last) MTB race was the 55km Survival Race back in, oh, I think 1992? In other words, I ain't no racer. No training, no diet. So I'm in this for fun...well, as much fun as I can get riding the 2.2km track for 6 laps on my singlespeed!

I'm not the only SSer either, Matt has also joined on his Ti Airborne. So we have a good chat and laugh that we're assured of at least a top-two finish in our sub-category! So it's just me and Matt in a field of 30 or so riders, all the others riding tricked out bikes...with gears!!! CHEATS!!!

Before heading off to the starting line, I load my Deuter with water - everyone else has water bottles! I didn't want to take any chances, since we'll be racing at 1pm. I take my place at the tail end of the pack before the start signal, next to King (who's a strong rider, but doesn't race) and Gary aka FlipnIdaho, who quit racing 10 years ago - on the US NORBA circuit no doubt. He had these words of wisdom to share as to why he quit racing:

"Racing is like an old girlfriend...everytime I go back to her... I remember why I broke up with her to begin with"

Before the start, something dribbled down the back of my leg, and I took a peep inside my hydration pack to check if everything was in order. Looked OK to me...and the next thing I know, we were off...racing!

The course consisted of a short but grinding climb, a twisty bit of singletrack with a drop or two thrown in for good measure before you crest the top of the hill. From there it's a series of sweeping turns that end with a drop, a quick right turn, then a short riser that turns left.

From there you enter the "bowl" where more drops and risers await, and finally, a section I call the "double dip" two successive step-drops that lead into a tight right hand switchback. Once you're clear of there you power through the finish line and do everything all over, again.

By the second lap I had overtaken Matt, and leapfrogged a few more riders, including King and Gary, when they got stuck behind a fallen rider. The three of us ended up swapping positions. I didn't mind at all, since they are my team mates! By the third lap they were giving call-outs on our race positions, and I was currently 20th, which was the last position that earned points! The sun was beating down on us mercilessly, and our agape mouths sucked in the hot air. Bystanders and supporters alike were very helpful - if not cheering us on, splashing us with water. I made a conscious effort to stay hydrated as well. Good thing I brought the hydrapack.

I was behind King as we completed lap 3, when he unexpectedly headed for the pits. I asked him if he was OK as I cycled past, but didn't hear his reply - don't worry, he was OK! Team-mate Juboy was in hot pursuit of the lead rider, and they caught up with me at the short climb. I stopped and headed off the course to give them a wide berth, and took the opportunity to gulp a few mouthfuls down. As I bit down on the valve and sucked, all I got was air. I jiggled my pack and tried again. This time a few drops came through. How could that have happened? I press on, but my water situation was worrying me.

As I started lap 4 it was clear that my hydration pack was empty. I also started to develop chills - in the mid-day sun, that isn't a good sign! My legs felt ok, but I was parched and my concentration was on and off. Johnny (who was chasing Juboy) lapped me as my front wheel washed out in a sandy turn. As I cleared double-dip I decided to turn in. As I completed lap 4, I stopped at the tent and someone gave me something to drink - problem was, it wasn't the All Terra tent! I said thanks and joked, saying "laspag na ako - tuloy maling tent ang hinintuan". The All Terra tent was the next one, so there I went.

I explained to King what happened and as I opened my pack, it was clear to me what happened. The screw-cap was not fastened down all the way! To think I checked it at the start - guess I should have really inspected it, instead of just taking a peek.

So 4 laps out of 6, that ain't too bad I guess. Matt finished the race (big ups to him), and so did the rest of the All Terra team. Juboy was in a tight battle for the top spot, but had to settle for 2nd. Ramon came in 6th. Edmund and Gary even did an extra lap - thanks to sloppy marshalling!

Not sure about the final standings - I'm sure the official results will be out soon. Admittedly, I do feel a bit lugi, or shortchanged. If I didn't have that Janet Jackson-esque equipment malfunction, I would have done all six laps. At any rate, I still had fun...and I may still be in the top 20!

I finished 2nd in our colorum single-speed sub category though! HAHA!

But I can't help thinking of the "what ifs"...

Then again, there's no use crying over spilled water.

Thanks to Jay, Polly and Mrs. Matt for the photos!

i said half-links, not halflings!

2006-02-24T20:33:00.000+08:00

Friday I took the day off to go on a nice ride with King, Fat-Tire (Owen), Alger and Bo (WCoastBo). Bo is visiting from California, where he rips up the trails on his single-speed. He brought home a bunch of SS-specific goodies like cogs and half-links. Half-links are used to overcome the need for a chain-tensioner. They let you shorten your chain in smaller increments...ugh, enough techno-babble!We took a trail that started in Muntinlupa, and eventually spat us out in Dasmarinas, Cavite. It was mostly flat, but still fun!

I tried to put the half-links on the Tingle but it didn’t quite work, so back went the Soulcraft tensioner. I ordered a 20T cog for use on the impending Karate Monkey, but I decided to give it to Andre, along with the half-links, so he can join the reboluSSyon!
Jay also ordered a half-link, and he was able to use it on his Hard Rock, due to a longer chain-stay. It looks clean without the tensioner now. Yay!

another ex is back

2006-02-21T22:13:00.000+08:00

this time it's 'Nic. My old hardtail frame, an Azonic KZ-1, has been in All Terra waiting for the supremo, Edmund to build up into a singlespeed.

at least that was the initial plan. Looks like ol' Edmund had a flash of inspiration!

I handed my "custom" cro-mo fork (remember that one), and Edmund slapped on King's Gipiemme MTB wheels. Shimano STI road levers, drop bars, big fat slicks and this is what he ended up with:

It's surprisingly light, and yes, after riding it around the lot I was hit by nostalgia.

It's an excellent frame.

Strange, seems like 2006 is the year of the "return of the ex's"..both figuratively and literally.

gary and team all terra

2006-02-19T23:18:00.000+08:00

Dan-dan, Ramon, King, Gary, Juboy, Jimmy (background), myself and Polly

Saturday was a ride in the hills of Maarat, for several good reasons:

1) Balikbayan biker Gary, from Idaho, is in town. Gary was a NORBA racer, and has a degree in framebuilding. He's been singlespeeding for 13 years now and owns a quiver of bikes. Some are vintage and hella unique, like his Slingshot. Don't let his looks deceive you, as he is a mountain goat! All-around nice guy, really low-key!

2) Polly is finally back in the saddle again after a month of working weekends, drinking and smoking too much! Hehe.

3) Riding with Team All Terra again. The last time I did this was in Sta Rosa. They're a fun group, but they are all strong riders. They rode up the wall - a 1.2km climb with switchbacks, while I waited for them at the top (yes, I took a car). But I plan to attack the wall on the singlespeed - especially since I saw another SSer go at it with 36x18 gearing!

Here's Mon and myself engaging in some tomfoolery before we hit the trail.

all photos by Gary :)

a ride with the ex

2006-02-12T23:14:00.000+08:00

this weekend was a mixed bag of sorts - coz the ex joined me for a ride! Joey built up the Caballero late last Sunday, and yesterday was the "inaugural" ride. it's just strange seeing my frame and fork rolling again - to think Joey first bought the fork last month...I told him he should've taken the frame as well!

He's stoked with the ride - as I expected him to be. And he assured me he'll take good care of the Salsa.

At least she's in good hands. Just like the rest of my ex's!

Leeds is back in the saddle again as well, after 9 months!

On another note, Jay rode Sta Rosa earlier today with Dre, and he popped his Cherry. The Cherrybomb is a free-ride frame that's built to take a lot of abuse, and it was unfortunate that all it took was a lil bunnyhop to pop it:

A quote from his Buzznet

"I broke my cherry :(

was JRA (just riding along) when i jumped this transition that couldnt have been half a foot high.

i heard a SNAP! but couldnt figure out what it was... i saw this much later after the downhill.

the bolt sticking out in the pic was sheared in half. also the shock mount wich is the three silver things on top of the red knob aren't aligned anymore but sticking up. im surprised it didnt fly out in different directions with the spring pressure.

Waaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!"

Poor Jay! Then again, he's been casting lustful glances at a Santa Cruz Heckler of late...

she's gone

2006-02-05T20:06:00.000+08:00

Bushwhacking. Good thing I was a man in tights.

Nothing like a post-ride PB&J crepe, and a machiatto.

The Caballero was sold today. Have to admit the price was not what I was hoping for, but my pal Joel was the one who bought it and I do get "visitation" rights, since we ride together often. Funny thing is, Joey bought the suspension fork that I had on it, sometime last month. So it was a bit eerie to see both frame and fork matched once again and rolling.

Glad to know she's in good hands, and that she'll be ridden well.

and best of all, my war chest is full. I think it's time to make arrangements for Hong Kong, to pickup the monkey!

This weekend was a busy one. Hit Sta Rosa yesterday and ended up guiding a San Mig Lite Enduro team through the trails. Had to push the pace a bit since these guys were fit! We all had fun though and they were a funny bunch. Got home then decided to bike to work to finish up some articles. Hmmm...

And today, after 9 months of not touching his bike, Leeds decides to ride! So it's back to Sta Rosa (trails are flowy so it's a good place to either try out mountain biking or for a refresher), and we ended up discovering a new trail network with some of the locals. Neat. Leeds' ride had horrible chainsuck and shifting problems (thanks to a worn XTR chainring), so we went to All Terra to have it checked. He needed a new crank so I offered to swap his old-school XTR ones with my used Truvativs (ex-Salsa). Had plans to refurb his XTR cranks for SS duty but it looks like too much trouble/expense. That's alright, I'd rather use a square taper BB/crankset anyway, rather than any other system...

the death star is fully operational

2006-02-03T21:03:00.000+08:00

Slapped on the boone earlier today, along with my old Mavic Crosslinks from the Caballero(sniff). Been saving that wheelset for this purpose, and does it ride sweet. Near-silent operation when freewheeling means I can sneak up on other riders hehe.

This weekend is the true test though. On the dirt.

Time to ride!

one gear to rule them all

2006-02-02T13:00:00.000+08:00

IT has arrived. the piece de resistance. the (hopefully) last piece of the titanium puzzle. the bee's knees, cat's pajamas. my precioussssssssss.

The Boone Titanium Cog will be put in it rightful place in my drivetrain this weekend. After a 4-month delay at that. But am not complaining. Each cog or chainring is meticulously machined by Mr. Brett Brown in his spare time. Can't rush art.

Damn this thing is sexy.

back to survival trail

2006-01-07T19:45:00.000+08:00

Taking advantage of the dry (and pleasantly cool) weather we've been having of late, Polly, Erich and I decided to visit our old happy hunting grounds - Survival Trail. So named because the trail system was once a part of the 55km Survival Race course. Which was last run back in the mid-90's...the time of grunge, raves and whatnot...but I digress!

The first part of the trail system is a nice, rolling run thru several villages on tarmac. It's a great warm-up, considering the next bit is a brutal climb with several turns that really sap your momentum. Had to stop at the midway point (a designated "rest stop" by the way), to catch my breath. A minute or so of cardiovascular management, and I push off for the second half of the climb. I used to clean this non-stop. Granted, that was on a geared bike. Singlespeeding gives you the perfect excuse to take a break hehe. Here I am attempting a rutted climb. Didn’t get too far before the ruts got me. Grrr. Gotta go back and hit this again.

Survival Trail may be a bit shorter than other places we’ve ridden, but what it does is cram a whole lot of different terrain into that 16km or so stretch. Dirt road climbs, sweeping downhills, river crossings, forested singletrack, and even hike-a-bike sections. Over here Mother Nature gets her way, as a previously ridable section has now been eroded into a viscious mudpit (see pic below). Definitely a portage section. At least our upper bodies got a workout hefting our bicycles!

At the final rest-stop, we decided to head back the way we came, effectively doubling our mileage. This also meant climbing back up the hills we bombed down. Hey, I’ve gotten this far! Admittedly I had to walk up one switchback, keeping in mind that there was another grinding climb at the other end of the ride. It all worked out pretty well. Since we were going with the flow (of erosion), the ruts were actually ridable. Polly and Erich had a blast with their rigs. I had fun too, but at a much more sedate pace hehe

We finished the ride, and I was really stoked. This trail was probably the acid test for the SS, and I think it did pretty well! Can’t wait to head back.

a bottle of beer and a single gear

2006-01-05T13:25:00.000+08:00

Was doing hill intervals last night when my backpack went "Boing!" (that's my message alert tone), so while caught in a stoplight I decide to check my phone. Karlo texts in saying he's at M Cafe in Makati with Lala and her cousins, and that they'll be there for a good part of the next hour. I reply that I am on my bike, but might head on out there just for fun.

So I push the pedals to Makati, and sneak past the guards at the Japanese Garden and join Karlo and the gang for a drink.

Nothing like ice cold Cerveza Negra to cool you down after a ride hehe. Just one bottle though, since I had to bike home too. Crazy? Maybe. Fun? Hell Yeah!

On the way home, I snapped this pic too, of The Big Wheel:

happy new year, happy new bike (but not for me)

2006-01-02T23:17:00.000+08:00

Our loaner bike, "Project Ava", is finally built up! As you can see in the pic, it's a playful one. Not bad considering it's made up of a mishmash of old parts. We're not too sure about the color combo though (powdercoat didn't turn out what we expected), so a rattlecan job is in order for the fork. Most probably a real dull black. Hehe.

As the saying goes, "build it and they will come".

Pic snapped by Jay with his brand new Ixus 750