the old girl likes snow

i obviously didn't check the forecast before my commute this morning, otherwise i'd have grabbed my surly with 42c studded knobbies instead.  oh well, no big deal. the old gal (with 28-29mm parigi roubaix tires) still handles light snow pretty good.

winter schminter

my old Bianchi X4 is still getting daily use until we get real snow.  i've regeared her from 44x16 to 44x19 to deal with the steep hills of midtown Omaha. despite the cold temps the sky sure is pretty.

days later

 

another gravel worlds is in the books.   it was a foggy and damp start and it turned out to be perfect (no dust).  i didn't do the full 153, only about 75 before turning back to Lincoln. my 39x16 gear was ok but it still made each steep climb an all out effort again and again. my lower back and hamstrings are still sore days later. the strada tires did alright on the gravel, though i had to stay alert on the loose dirt sections because i came very close to loosing it a few times trying to change lines. by the checkpoint in Garland there was plenty of grit on my bike.  all in all it's a great way to spend a saturday and a fun time was had by all.  i can't wait for next year.

prepping for GW's

gravel worlds is just around the corner, and i'm registered in the SS category like last year.  however this year instead of a cross bike with 30-32c tires i think i'll ride one of my road bikes (a mid 90's merckx in team motorala caloi livery) with 28c tires. i'm just more comfortable on my road bike so that's what factors in the decision.  at least converting a Campy 10speed rear hub to SS is now made easy via the Gusset 66c conversion kit.  let's hope there's no rain this year.