MudNCrud Forums
Out'n about... just not Climbing => Biking => Topic started by: JC w KC redux on October 07, 2013, 08:05:49 AM
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Click on the link to go for a short ride with me...
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Why do I ride the unicycle?
It was originally recommended to me by my chiropractor after I had a miserable bout of sciatica a couple years ago - just prior to contracting the lead climbing bug. I was willing to try just about anything to escape the pain and the possibility of a recurrence - plus I liked the idea of a new challenge.
It's a great core workout and excellent for back problems.
It's low impact - unlike all the running I was doing for a couple years prior (I was up to running half marathons).
There is a guaranteed double crux every time you ride - the mount and dismount.
More cruxes may occur during the ride depending on traffic, wind and debris.
Turnarounds are also what I would consider crux maneuvers.
You cannot stop, coast or brake - it's constant motion.
Every ride is a challenge - I am never bored even doing the same circuit for many months (actually years now).
I can get a kick-ass workout in 45 minutes total (average 36 minutes for 6 miles + cool down walk).
It is similar to lead climbing in many ways:
It always makes me nervous.
Start and exit moves take total focus and no one can help you - getting off the ground can be the hardest part.
You can never relax completely - relaxing at all takes practice.
You must commit and control your fear(most of which is only in your head).
You're constantly reading the route - you can take the LOLR or up the ante with more challenging paths.
Falling off like a cat helps.
It's just you and the wheel.
You start small (low grade/little wheel) and work your way up (upper grades/big wheel).
It takes determination to learn - you must be willing to fail countless times (I can't say I do this with my climbing).
It's one of the hardest things you'll ever learn.
Most people will think you are weird or crazy - only other riders will truly understand.
It's a freeing feeling like nothing else - especially after you learn to free mount.
It's adrenalized and addictive.
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Where's the love?
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Looks cool. Wanted to get a demo on one at Outerbike but there were just to many other bikes on the list.
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good to have you back Mud :)
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Replaced two broken spokes and wrestled some new rubber onto my big wheel today.
Learned how to true my rim so hopefully no more broken spokes.
No time left for a ride.
Hopefully give it a spin tamale.
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Is it possible to ride rollers with a uni?
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Is it possible to ride rollers with a uni?
found this
http://forums.mtbr.com/videos-pov-cameras/riding-unicycle-bike-rollers-fast-958863.html
nothing seems to thwart the unigeezer...
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dang
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Doesn't count on the rollers without juggling.
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Training to operate world's largest eggbeater perhaps?
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Doesn't count on the rollers without juggling.
He says it's scary as hell just doing it in a doorway.
If this guy can't let go and ride it in place I doubt anyone can!
Training to operate world's largest eggbeater perhaps?
That would make for some seriously fluffy eggs - or meringue :)
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Had an interesting ride today. Got up and going on the second try but after being off for 10 days and riding a brand new tire, it was tricky and challenging. Evidently I had been riding a much flatter profile tire - since the two middle rows of knobs were almost gone on my old tire. The new rubber at full inflation has a much rounder profile, so riding the apex is way more balancy and the handling is completely different. Cornering went from a full on lean (old, worn tire) to barely thinking about it (new tire). I remember last time I put on new rubber it took about a week to get the feel for it.
The good news is - the wheel stayed true and no spokes broke.
A little extra core workout adjusting to the new balance and squirrely handling won't hurt me :)
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A little extra core workout adjusting to the new balance and squirrely handling won't hurt me :)
Nope. But the offwidth crack leads you're going to be in shape for might.
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Can't resist a repost.
Click on the link to go for a short ride with me...
Thanks to looks easy from here I had The Last Ride in my head today while spinning :)
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Cool, but I think you need a bigger wheel, ; )
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Today was likely our last day of onshore breezes. It was one of the most if not THE MOST challenging day I have ever had on the wheel. Every time I turned toward the ocean the gusts damn near brought me to a halt. Turning on to the main road with gusts and crosswinds was crazy hard. I thought about cutting my normal ride short but stubborn me pressed on and did my whole circuit complete with turns(circles) and figure eights. I let out a few old man noises (similar to climbing 10's) at a few points. I was relieved to get home and step off. The best part was 1st time on and a perfect dismount :ihih:
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...but stubborn me...
I had no trouble forming a mental picture of this description :P
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The best part was 1st time on and a perfect dismount Ihih
TMI
This is your practice wake up time for next Wed.
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TMI
This is your practice wake up time for next Wed.
Really? With that setup? You must have been sleepy-eyed and meanderthal slow in the wit department.
Wednesday will be a good day to sleep in and celebrate the end of the quarter. :sleep: :prrr:
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Much nicer riding yesterday and today without the wind.
Sounds like Brad and T are contending with some foul weather up Shasta way.
I wanted to go to Pinns today but couldn't get motivated to go solo.
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I wanted to go to Pinns today but couldn't get motivated to go solo.
Solo is fine once and a while.
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Solo is fine once and a while.
Solo is good on the uni.
Most days I prefer to share my climb time - especially when there is work to be done :ihih:
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I had a good initial ride today.
I haven't told very many people but I had a bad unplanned dismount about 5 weeks ago and haven't been back on the wheel since. It happened after I fixed a couple broken spokes and put on a brand new tire. Last time I put on a new tire I had a similar feeling of extreme uneasiness and sudden inability to turn well. The new tire has a much rounder profile and a really squirrely feel. Last time I put a new one on it took me about a week to adjust to it - luckily I didn't have any wrecks.
I wasn't riding partly because of wet weather and partly because of PTUPDT (Post Traumatic Unplanned Dismount Trauma).
Now muscle memory is a good thing when it comes to riding uni but in this case I would prefer that my cranial muscles forget what happened.
Today was the day.
It took me 8 tries to get on.
I felt wobbly and weak but fell into a good slow pace after a few minutes.
I haven't been that nervous on a ride in...well I can't remember when.
It will take me a while to get my confidence back but that's okay.
I had the good sense to dismount prior to the site of my sideways superman getoff.
Turn by turn, I will get there :thumbup: :biggrin: :yesnod: :arf:
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...unplanned dismount...
So you fell?
Can we call it an unplanned dismount in climbing?
I've never seen you ride - do you wear pads and/or wrist guards or a helmet?
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So you fell?
Can we call it an unplanned dismount in climbing?
I've never seen you ride - do you wear pads and/or wrist guards or a helmet?
I slowed for some traffic at my usual spot so I could turn across the road and finish my ride.
When I started across I got off balance (from the new tire) and pedaled hard trying to regain my balance.
I launched sideways (with considerable momentum) and went flying superman style, landing in the middle of the road.
A guy in a work truck was a bit behind me and was nice enough to stop and ask if I was okay.
I said - "No, but I'll live" as I hobbled off, adding a thanks.
I do wear wrist guards, a helmet and ankle bone guards - you can see them in my video at the start of this thread :biggrin:
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I've had those.
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I've had those.
I find that hard to believe based on your shoe size :lol:
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Can we call it an unplanned dismount in climbing?
The UPD is pretty much uni specific lingo. I never heard that term until I became a one wheel convert.
Not sure it is appropriate for climbing since you aren't typically mounted on anything.(insert joke here)
The exception might be some of these knife-edge aretes where the ride-em cowboy technique applies.
In most cases I can think of at Pinnacles, if you fall off there, it will probably just be part of your eulogy or epitaph :yesnod: :lol: :yikes:
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In my MTB circles we call it elbow surfing.
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I've been having some problems with spokes breaking over the last year or so. It's a pain to fix and sometimes keeps me from riding for a few days. I decided a couple months ago to get a second wheel so I'll have a spare when it happens again. I opted for the only other brand of 36 inch wheel out there - The Coker Big One - shown on the right. My original wheel is a Nimbus Titan. I haven't had the new one out yet but it is nice and has 48 spokes versus the Titan's 36.
Plus now if anyone comes to visit and they can ride a cruiser, we can have a spin together. :yesnod: :ihih:
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3fzsYm6R61yfEOltXZU9MMNQ39_3KlPVZsH3BQeEzcCv9ViAiM0g7lVa1_Uy1qxfeeLUEa4QSs0QFQgZTO6oe9nNv8Kv0BVoOf6nGqjYolCbziR6V0CE0yNj-JkX58vr6MMehfZ9yRxwwPN0R6l-G6D=w800-h600-no?authuser=0)
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JC, why not connect the two and see how that works?
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You will also need something to steer with.
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You will also need something to steer with.
He could make a wheelchair.
Plus now if anyone comes to visit and they can ride a cruiser, we can have a spin together. Yes Nod Ihih
Brad on a unicycle. :crazy:
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You will also need something to steer with.
You might need something.
I will put the horns on one for you.
You'll want to be solid on your back dismount :lol:
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He could make a wheelchair.
DIE! :prrr: :ciappa:
Brad on a unicycle. :crazy:
He'd have to pay me in full for it first :lol:
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What's the difference between a well dressed man on a unicycle and a poorly dressed man on a bike?
Attire.
:)
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I think we need to start a thread for Brad jokes.
By the way clink - who are you quoting?
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What kind of a diet do unicyclists eat?
Well balanced.
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BrAD jokes.
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This could also cross post on the Historic thread.
It took me 21 tries to get on the uni today.
So strange because a few days ago I got going on the first try.
Part of the problem is that a neighborhood angry-at-the-world dude :madmax: banned me from the service road across the street where I used to start my rides. That road belongs to the HOA and even though I was using it long before he bought one of the houses and painted it neon blue-green, they do have the right to restrict activities by non members.
Now I have to get started in the street and every time a car comes along I have to wait. :crying:
Those breaks don't exactly help my concentration. :frown2:
In addition, today was evidently a bad balance day. :incazzato:
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I'm completely surprised that it would take you that many tries to get going. But I'm not at all surprised that you had the persistence to keep at it.
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How about this for irony…1st time on today :yesnod: :thumbup: :biggrin: :ihih:
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How about this for irony…1st time on today :yesnod: :thumbup: :biggrin: :ihih:
And again today - two fer :arf:
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Actually took a nice long bike ride with KC today. It made me realize that I need to get back in touch with things other than climbing and Pinnacles (shhhhhhh...don't tell the crud).
On a uni note - inconsistency in mounts this week - from Tuesday through Friday it took me 9x, 19x!, 3x and 1x to get going. Not getting better at it - that is just the way it goes. :yesnod:
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We all evolve....2 wheels are better
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At this rate you will be back on a tricycle in no time. >:D
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We all evolve....2 wheels are better
Yesterday was the 2nd time I rode a bicycle in the last 7 years.
It didn't feel nearly as weird as the time before (more than a year ago).
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Yesterday was the 2nd time I rode a bicycle in the last 7 years.
It didn't feel nearly as weird as the time before (more than a year ago).
I put together my first unicycle (a 26 incher) on 8-22-11 and got on my 36 inch wheel the first time on 12-12-11.
I looked it up and my last bicycle ride was 8-8-15 - I wrote "weirdest feeling ever" :biggrin: :yesnod: :lol:
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I put together my first unicycle (a 26 incher) on 8-22-11 and got on my 36 inch wheel the first time on 12-12-11.
I looked it up and my last bicycle ride was 8-8-15 - I wrote "weirdest feeling ever" Big Grin Yes Nod Laugh Out Loud
Riding a unicycle may be why you can balance up shit at Pinns that a "two wheel" person with a brain larger than an acorn wouldn't attempt. Brad must have a bunch of acorns wired in parallel.
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I got to watch clink do some baby whispering today.
We all have our talents :yesnod: :biggrin: :thumbup:
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clink, where do you get this shit?
Multiple acorns wired together.
Then there is the beard theory....I suspect mr mud uses it for a friction chin mantle...while placing bolts on rappel. Or maybe it gives strength.
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You know I will never get used to seeing these guys run it out on rotten rock. We have all done it as Pinnacles climbers, but they have done so much of it.
I suppose it is similar to viewing certain painting exhibits. What may be taken as a mistake not to be repeated by some, is the mastering of artistic expression by others.
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clink, where do you get this shit?
Multiple acorns wired together.
He has lots of ideas squirreled away in his cache.
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Riding a unicycle may be why you can balance up shit at Pinns that a "two wheel" person with a brain larger than an acorn wouldn't attempt. Brad must have a bunch of acorns wired in parallel.
Holy, holy crap Clink. You Goddamn-near killed Vicki. I read this comment to her and she almost died laughing.
Here, here's a copy of a book I found here in Bend, just for you, our beloved Clink. I'll let you determine how it applies to you and this post:
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1802/41195324860_a91743037d_b.jpg)
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I've been going for time in the saddle along essentially the same route and seeing how slow I can ride on the uni for quite some time now - riding slower is actually harder in terms of keeping your balance. It can also be quite painful towards the end of the ride. Lately I have been mixing it up more - sprinting some along with the slow ride (cue Foghat). My times had been running 55+ minutes sometimes almost 60 (never hit that and notice use of running). I was thinking yesterday it would be funny to have a 51:50 ride. I hit 51:51 today after taking 15 tries to get going. :lol:
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What chapter is Rap bolting?
JC, stick with 2x wheels...safer.
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JC, stick with 2x wheels...safer.
Took about a 30 mile ride on Sunday.
At the end of Bluff Rd near the mouth of the Pajaro River
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1851/44370267561_5cac572025_c.jpg)
Looking out to sea and the mouth of the Pajaro River/Pajaro Dunes - cool spot.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1878/43463655575_1078fd57ce_c.jpg)
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Took about a 30 mile ride on Sunday.
At the end of Bluff Rd near the mouth of the Pajaro River
Mouth of the river? Who named the end of the river the mouth?
Mouth should be where a river begins, like source and headwaters.
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Mouth of the river? Who named the end of the river the mouth?
Mouth should be where a river begins, like source and headwaters.
Shut it - or run like a river :lol:
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Gulp, :)
I still would have named it the anus of the river(ass end, for those cartographers who skipped anatomy).
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I was out for a uni ride today in between rains (well it was drizzling a little) and some teenage kid was hanging out the window of a car to tell me two wheels are better. The same car happened by again later in my ride and he insisted on repeating the same phrase three or four times. He was clearly trying to provoke a response but I was not biting.
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Well that's Santa Cruz for yah....Reminds me of the scene in Blazing Saddles where the sheriff gets insulted by an old lady. Gene Wilder's character is consoling him..."what do you expect, these are people of the land....ingrates!!!"
I am qualified to say such harsh words since I spent 1/2 my life living on that side of the hill.
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The sheriff in near :lol:
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"Most people call me Jim, you...can call me Jim."
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Well raise my rent!
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Mongo only pawn, in game of life.
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He was clearly trying to provoke a response but I was not biking.
fixed
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fixed
Funny dude. I think I'll always be one wheel and a couple big cams short of normal :thumbup: :biggrin: :out:
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Funny dude. I think I'll always be one wheel and a couple big cams short of normal :thumbup: :biggrin: :out:
Lump jumars in with the rest of that gear.
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Just got back on the wheel after almost a month hiatus. :thumbup: :yesnod: :biggrin: :out:
Heavy cloud cover but no rain.
Supposed to be our only break between storms.
I see a bunch of trees on our street that are leaning in the saturated soils :yikes:
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Got out again today because I could.
Nice weather with some good wind.
Gotta enjoy it while it lasts.
Sounds like we may get a longer break next week.
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Got out for one more ride in today before the rains starts - looks like that could be any time.
Biffed on my first mount attempt to the tune of head first somersaulting on the asphalt.
Been quite a while since I had a close encounter with the road.
No apparent damage - just a friendly reminder that shit happens.
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I got out for a quick 20 before the rain hit.
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I got out for a quick 20 before the rain hit.
Nice.
I was on for 1:02:12.
I don't think much in terms of mileage anymore - just time balancing in the saddle.
I got on and pedaled away the second try...like nothing ever happened.
Some challenging winds and a nice dismount at the end.
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^^^
Damnit dude, would you please be careful.
There's already one nut on this site who specializes in bike wrecks. We don't need a one-wheeled version of him.
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"You're not riding if you're not wrecking" is probably that individual's thought process.
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Yes Clink, an old college bud (RIP) spent a whole week getting ready for a motorcycle race at Willow springs.
Next Monday morning he and his bike are back.
But 1 side was ground down....he didn’t finish the race. Slid out.
He was told by more experienced riders...
“son if you are not crashing, you are not riding hard enough”.
Words to live by!
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I splurged and ordered a new brain bucket today.
I decided to get the Nutcase Technicolor with MIPs
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I splurged and ordered a new brain bucket today.
I decided to get the Nutcase Technicolor with MIPs
Got in my first ride with the new brain bucket today.
Comfy, stylish and all the latest technology.
If the Nutcase fits...wear it.
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MIPS is good. I have been thinking of getting neck brace and spine protector to use when riding more challenging downhill trails.
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Geoff broke his finger riding his mountain bike. It isn't working right, but he doesn't go to doctors. He said he bounced a lot and when he stood up, he felt pretty good. He noticed something was wrong with the finger after riding a bit and figures he must have stuck his hand out on one of the tuck and rolls.
FTS! Why not just stick with rock climbing?
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probably the safer sport.
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The Dr's assitant told me point blank....the Dr does NOT do shoulder re-repairs!!
So basically, I can't have any serious accident involving the shoulders.
Now the other body parts are fair game.
I'll have to get a new helmet soon as my cheap ass one is a PITA.
I am tempted to wear the body armor I have, but then I'd get laughed at by the crowds at Demo.
Plus the evil stump that impaled me has been moved.
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What is the difference between a poorly dressed man on a unicycle and a well dressed man on a bicycle?
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One couldn't afford a whole bike and the other is a Mormon?
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What is the difference between a poorly dressed man on a unicycle and a well dressed man on a bicycle?
That's easy. Attire.
What kind of diet does a unicyclist follow?
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That's easy. Attire.
What kind of diet does a unicyclist follow?
I can't quite figure it out, but its got to have the word balanced in it? A balanced diet?
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I think the guy on the unicycle is supposed to be naked.
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Imagine if we all had uni cycles....nah
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I can't quite figure it out, but its got to have the word balanced in it? A balanced diet?
Ding ding ding ding - we have a winner.
Yes...well balanced.
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I think the guy on the unicycle is supposed to be naked.
Package issues.
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Imagine if we all had uni cycles....nah
Agreed - then it wouldn't be uni nique anymore
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I am tempted to wear the body armor at at Demo.
I may have to do this some day
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My old buddy Dave Stahl has been learning to ride the uni during Shelter In Place down in So Cal and he is doing great. He sent me a couple videos last week where he gets about 60 pedal revolutions (in an abandoned parking lot) and then does a big circle (in a second video). He is learning on a 20 inch wheel that he got at a garage sale on the cheap. I am still getting out each day for about an hour.
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At one with the universe today.
Rode for 1:01:11, 1st time on.
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At one with the universe today.
Rode for 1:01:11, 1st time on.
How do you time it down to the second?
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How do you time it down to the second?
It's just co-ink-ee-dink.
I hit my watch timer after I get going and shortly after the dismount.
I've never hit 1:11:11 but I did ride 1:12:01 on 4-29-20 (all time record for an ultra slow ride around my circuit).
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I finally broke down and put a new tire on my uni yesterday.
My old tire had been showing threads in multiple spots for a few months and yesterday a small bump appeared after my ride that indicated the tube was about to poke through.
I know...boring but not much else happening around here lately.
I do have a receiver hitch for the truck coming and we bought a swing out bike rack for the truck - so we can haul bikes with the camper. I'll be working on that over the next week or so as pieces arrive from various vendors.
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And what would happen if a tire "burst" on a uni? It's hard to see a mental picture of it "exploding" and depositing you on the ground. Slow leakage unto uselessness sounds more likely.
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And what would happen if a tire "burst" on a uni? It's hard to see a mental picture of it "exploding" and depositing you on the ground. Slow leakage unto uselessness sounds more likely.
And then a long walk home probably.
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And what would happen if a tire "burst" on a uni? It's hard to see a mental picture of it "exploding" and depositing you on the ground. Slow leakage unto uselessness sounds more likely.
Chance Brothers on the burst.
I only use about 15 pounds of tire pressure.
I was terrified to take a ride today since I had bad experiences with turning the last 2 times I put on new rubber.
Lowering the pressure is the key but the tire is still much more reactive (squirrelly to the slightest change in body movement (compared to a worn tire).
Ironically I made all my usual turns and had an unplanned dismount on the straights on the way back home.
I was cruising along and for some strange reason (I think I just got too comfortable and relaxed a little too much) - I lurched a little forward, shifted off the balance point and dumped off the front. I ran it out but the landing was a little abrupt - luckily I was going pretty slow. I think I was just tired since it took me 10 times to get back on.
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So unicycle tires need a break-in period just like climbing shoes.
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So unicycle tires need a break-in period just like climbing shoes.
Nope. It breaks you in... :ihih:
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Here's part of the worst worn section of tire with me pointing to the spot where it was literally down to just threads and the tube was trying to squeeze through. What a testament to the durability of this tire.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49950317787_5780f5b5f6_z.jpg)
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Saw your dopplerganger today at the bottom crystal springs. Dude on a unicycle with knee pads on. What are the chances? What I want to know is if he rode from skyline down to polyphemus. Whoa.
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Saw your dopplerganger today at the bottom crystal springs. Dude on a unicycle with knee pads on. What are the chances? What I want to know is if he rode from skyline down to polyphemus. Whoa.
Invalid without pics? :lol:
I saw a guy riding the AIDS ride on one in June 2019 (the riders come past our house).
He was just cruising along like there was nothing to it. I knew better :yesnod: :ihih:
Looked like a fancy rig with handlebar and brake (should have gotten a pic but who knew?).
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Sometimes you gotta evolve....Nah!
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I had a real treat over the July 4th weekend when my buddy Dave came up to visit and pick up my old 26 inch unicycle.
He bought a 20 inch wheel for $20 at a garage sale and spent about a month learning to ride during the lockdown.
I told him I was so proud of him for learning that I would gladly give him a bigger and better wheel so he could keep advancing.
I was amazed when he got up on the bigger wheel almost instantly and after a couple runs using the curb to mount, he managed to figure out how to free mount (I showed him the tire grab method). I couldn't believe how quickly he was catching onto everything (he is a natural). We rode around on the service road across the street from our house and then decided to load up the wheels and drive back into the back part of my neighborhood where there is little traffic (it's part of my regular circuit).
Here are some stills from a video Dave's wife took while we were riding together the first day.
Watching the video, I was stupefied that Dave was looking back. Looking around while riding is not something that you normally do when in the beginning stages of riding. Dave took things to the next level in more ways than one - in just a few hours.
Dave looks back and says - "you can't catch me!"
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50090810851_c1685c3889_z.jpg)
This is the first time I have ever ridden with someone else.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50090232848_f409b96702_z.jpg)
Duuude...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50090772541_04fa3ce1de_z.jpg)
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Isn’t that so cute!!!
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Almost makes me want to get one myself....
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Almost makes me want to get one myself....
The key word there is almost.
There's the Crank Brothers and then there's the Chance Brothers :lol: :ihih: :arf:
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There are so many things - like learning to unicycle - that I'd love to do and/or learn, if only there were time. Gardening (speaking of which, Clink, how are Grover and Oscar doing?), birding, sailing (more than the occasional outings on the bay with my uncle).
Oh for a second (and then third) lifetime.
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There are so many things - like learning to unicycle - that I'd love to do and/or learn, if only there were time.
Oh for a second (and then third) lifetime.
Reincarnation :idea:
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Oscar is five feet tall, Grover is 8 inches shorter but has way bigger balls. I'll send pics to JC to validate.
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Kline, jealous???
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I talked to Dave today.
He biffed during a free mount attempt yesterday and tweaked his wrist pretty good.
He rode with the wrist brace the doctor gave him today.
He said he had a good ride and completed several successful, continuous laps around his usual circuit.
He was never able to do that on his 20 inch wheel.
He is hooked. More proof that unicycling is an addictive, adrenaline sport.
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I have no way to edit this but there are only a few bobbles and it's still relatively short (only 92 seconds you'll never get back).
I tried to get Dave to do some loops at the end but he was focused elsewhere. :yesnod: :lol:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jZU4TUA9QJEd5eHKnSb8xebUqX5lWkBF/view
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Good for Dave for picking it up so fast. But he's got a ways to go - the difference between the two of you in "smoothness" is very noticeable. He'll get there though....
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Good for Dave for picking it up so fast. But he's got a ways to go - the difference between the two of you in "smoothness" is very noticeable. He'll get there though....
Dave looks pretty wild at times but you'll also see extended moments when he has his arms down looking really stable - unusual at this stage.
Notice I am keeping my distance just the same! He is advancing amazingly fast. For folks that don't know us - you're looking at a few months of riding versus 9 years.
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I've been trying a slightly different strategy for mounting lately and it has been pretty successful until today.
Today it took me 20 tries to get going.
I totally psyched myself out.
Weird.
A few days ago I was getting on 1st try.
Time to do something else for a few days :thumbup: :biggrin: :ihih:
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Utilize a mounting pressure relief valve.
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Sounds personal there JC, but I’m sure Klink would help.
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Sounds like you need to bring the Ruckus.
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Sounds personal there JC, but I’m sure Klink would help.
It was personal since I actually almost took off on the first try and nutted myself in the process (I know TMI).
That is one inherent danger of the uni. clink wouldn't know as he is in the "frozen chicken" club.
I think my record for failed mounts is 20 or 21 so that was either a tie or another personal worst.
Sounds like you need to bring the Ruckus.
I did but at Pinns.
May try to get back on the wheel tomorrow - or not.
I'm purdy sore.
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Thanks for sharing.
I watched after breakfast this morning.
Crazy amount of miles, adventure and money raised.
Nobody in England has teeth that straight.
Dude on the Penny Farthing was interesting.
The segment where the guys he met were trying to mount the uni and giving him grief about his padded shorts was funny.
Fisheye lens on the selfie stick was surreal/cartoonish.
Saw a couple guys on freewheel unis coasting in the background during the Unicycle.com headquarters visit.
I bet there are some great scenery shots if you watch the series.
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I guess it would be safe. Who in the world would attack a British dork on a Uni? Proud effort.
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There really is something about British dorks.
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I guess it would be safe. Who in the world would attack a British dork on a Uni? Proud effort.
There really is something about British dorks.
Seems like you both have a thing for British Dorks. :idea: :yikes: :devildevil: :yesnod: :arf:
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You would be a bit odd if you lived where it always rains. And a lot of time to practice.
Crazy how easy he made it look to hop on that thing....like it was nothing.
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You would be a bit odd if you lived where it always rains.
Crazy how easy he made it look to hop on that thing....like it was nothing.
What do you mean "would be"?
I'm sure he was already good at mounting - then add riding every day for 3+ years.
I wonder how many UPD's he had during that time.
Find the spot where he tries to get on the Penny Farthing (around 13 minute mark).
Penny Farthing dude tries to get on the uni around 15 minute mark.
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I know, the farthing guy....he made it look real to get on that thing...
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Got in a fairly pleasant but cool ride yesterday with a little sunshine.
I did not quite break through the one hour endurance threshold I have been seeking/anticipating lately.
We got out earlier today and got sprinkled on for about 5 minutes a little before the end of the ride but I FINALLY broke through and made it just over an hour in cool temps and some gusty breezes. Haven't ridden for that long since last February.
I am damn pleased, considering I had barely been able to attempt any rides (4 short rides in 8 months) until I started back (for 6 days) in late October (while we were in KY).
I want to thank my buddy Dave Stahl for getting me back out when we were in Wonder Lake, Illinois. That ride was punctuated by multiple bail-offs and probably lasted a grand total of about 10 minutes before I was completely gassed. I also want to thank Kat for her infinite patience and support over these many months.
Now it is pouring rain here.
Here is a shot from one of my rides on our Arizona trip.
You can see the Citadel at Tuzigoot National Monument in the background (over my left shoulder).
Dead Horse Ranch State Park - Flycatcher Road.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AM-JKLUMXdC4FGcQUqRidcT4S_jjq9zwUnynKgvykYT8-waIAexlV3u3L6Hv_-Js2mdjvqlHn3lPN3gG55PBfKbtUxlH5Rr-bwcY8nmeEAob-beBj70XfIW5kkf0eZMNnsjPh1cm1nkEe_q3LRK7CtfHwBoc=w426-h568-no?authuser=0)
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So, did you ride any with your mouth open? Catch any flies riding past a dead horse?
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So, did you ride any with your mouth open? Catch any flies riding past a dead horse?
:lol: :lol: :lol:
Yeah, yeah, laugh it up funny man...
I mostly try to keep my yap snapped.
Maybe you should too! :ciappa:
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Well...it may not be Quest for Mud but it was really fun.
My buddy Dave Stahl came up from L.A. the week before last and braved getting on my other big wheel to go out and ride with me. We rode 4 days in a row and he rode anywhere from 35 to 45 minutes each day. He had a few unplanned dismounts each day but managed to keep from landing on the pavement (mostly) until the last day. I was so jazzed thinking that he was going to ride that last day without a fall and he was doing great until about halfway through our 3rd loop - he popped off and got tripped up and dove/shouldered into the pavement - OUCH! He was a bit scraped, bloodied and banged up but he got back on and finished the ride. He is a trooper.
What was amazing to me was the fact that he had only ridden the big wheel once before - in his neighborhood in Illinois - and that ride was just a few minutes long. During our rides together he was riding so slow that i was having trouble staying behind him and he rode most of the time with arms at his side. Uni riders know and appreciate the fact that the slower you go, the harder it is to maintain balance and riding with arms down is a sign of stability/control. Most people would never try this - much less in their 60s. Dave and I have ridden together before but he was not on a 36 inch wheel - so this was a real treat for both of us. This is one dude who abides. Nice job Dave!
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AM-JKLWOYs9qq2YEueCDEI1WK_HhKkgFca9xqAuUhGv0ST2yOUjHkbavt6DZJ9iTW-AUmeGfLadOn31y3TlG60fjOC4wbxenFmcKJ1-lm5eLIHTnKs-FybGAvHmA-301DF_-ZpqvCMmVYew168XoCCYwTRJo=w834-h625-no?authuser=0)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AM-JKLXbUbMv6N0ftp-IlD1EcBKWeHB6IuCh1ICsyRsT0xI1uP8jSA_E1rjy9VCmqS2R9pnB0aNI6DAVSVBXsUzV9L54yDiArDqU1QPi29qWyFKGNl-wx_RljWbpy58B_1FwAXftpwR2ELJlniencc86E8d9=w834-h625-no?authuser=0)
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Here is a short video of Dave and me riding the big wheels.
I like it because it shows Dave get back on after having an unplanned dismount - then we ride into the sunset like the western heroes do...
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Did you see this guy?
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^^^
Haha :ciappa:
I think waldo sent that to me a hundred years ago and then got me a Darth Vader mask later as a joke.
I was too dense to get the joke.
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I had an interesting week on the wheel.
Tuesday - a storm blew up while I was riding and I literally got blown off the wheel by a small cyclone. I was riding up a steep hill, under a big tree, when the whirlwind started pushing me up the hill. Being under the tree freaked me out (not to mention almost being lifted off the ground by the wind) and I jumped off to get out of the way. It rained for about 5 minutes after the cyclone blew through and then it was sunny and calm. I was too rattled to get back on, so I just walked the wheel back to the truck and came home. Very strange experience. I was just glad no big branches fell while I was passing under/by the tree. I was envisioning that when I got spooked and bailed.
Yesterday it took me 24 tries to get on. Some days you are the bug.
If you go back to my video and watch Dave again - That is a smooth mount.
He has an interesting back-blip just before crossing in front of the camera.
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Another phenomenal weather day today (for Kentucky).
60's this morning and low humidity (pretty much unheard of in June).
I have been riding here an hour a day, nearly every day.
One of my favorite things is when mama joins me for a few loops.
She is kicking ass on her trike.
Here we are heading for another lap on Mother's Day
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52133494087_2fbd6943d0_z.jpg)
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That's fantastic looking sky and a great photo.
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That's fantastic looking sky and a great photo.
Gracias. I thought so too - made it mama's desktop screen background.
Credit goes to Kat and her iPhone.
Pretty ironic that it's forecast to be cooler here today than at home.
We have had some of the best weather they will get all year since we've been here.
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Cross posting from my unicyclist forum. It's worth watching just to see the scenery, the trails and the huts.
My reply
Absolutely unbelievable. I can’t believe how comfortable these guys look on incredibly technical and exposed terrain. I lost count of how many times I said “Oh my God!” and “Holy shit!” just watching the first 3 days. I can’t decide which is more bad-ass - the riding or the scenery. Incredible. Thanks so much for posting this.
7 days in the Swiss Alps
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Wow. Nads of Steel.
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Disorienting. I don't picture people kitted out to hike or climb riding unicycles.
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It is. Unicycle riding causes a high rate of Reverse Puberty.
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No way I would want to ride with a pack.
The whole MUNI thing is not appealing to me - maybe if I were 20 or 40 years younger.
I'd be happy just to hike those trails.
Here is what Turtle said to my comment;
Thanks! The landscape wins for sure, the riding wasn’t real hardcore, because we wanted to stay safe, we didn’t take any risks, because of the long ride and also not that easy to go to hospital quickly
He also said the duct taping was because of a bad UPD on day 5 - hand and fingers injury.
I liked what one other poster said - which is something I was thinking while watching those stretches of riding on the knife-edged exposed ridges - An unexpected fall there would be bye bye unicycle and a bitch of a hike to retrieve it (if there was anything left).
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It was in the 40's last Thursday and then dropped to below zero overnight with a high Friday of 2 (and 2 to 3 inches of snow and ice). Wind chill overnight Friday was -30 and the temp was -7 when we got up Saturday morning. Today (one week later) it is in the 50's at 10am). I got out yesterday (windy) and the day before - just as the last bits of snow were melting. I was really hoping to get at least one shot riding with big snowflakes falling.
Two days ago
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52596234945_e328789d84_z.jpg)
Happy almost New Year's
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52596331853_61fd6148fb_z.jpg)
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Great pictures! Looks like you are having fun :)
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It's really nice to see you at least looking comfortable on the bike again.
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Dave took a slow motion video of me mounting the wheel.
Wait for it...
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Cool!
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well, that's just nuts
Dave took a slow motion video of me mounting the wheel.
Wait for it...
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well, that's just nuts
Thanks Mud. I take that as a serious compliment coming from you :thumbup: :biggrin:
The funniest part was the ad-libbed sound effects Dave made when he showed it to me.
I like the ocean view too.
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I like the ocean view too.
Yep
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Two for the road (on 26 inch wheels)
Me and Dave two days ago. This is a video capture so the quality ain't great
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczO0Ebw_5kKxNdCzbZ47Cg3zI1z91dbm19OnVg946xK3WLQcBRmJy8vMAT7cQZagFYcQ4yrmOayDLmk98R6PTEJaStDAdZEAtoQTpBFoALqRuHQLzd0QNlG_FGu4OG5NhXYPLlXUjx__BY04hvHHAztj=w611-h801-s-no-gm?authuser=0)
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I was in Aptos, waiting to turn onto Trout Gulch and a young girl (9?), riding by on her unicycle with mom and little sister on normal bikes not far behind. I saw them at New Leaf Market a few minutes later and complimented the uni rider on the accomplishment of biking while missing two thirds of the bike. She had done a little over 2 miles that session.
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I was in Aptos, waiting to turn onto Trout Gulch and a young girl (9?), riding by on her unicycle with mom and little sister on normal bikes not far behind. I saw them at New Leaf Market a few minutes later and complimented the uni rider on the accomplishment of biking while missing two thirds of the bike. She had done a little over 2 miles that session.
Assuming it was a smaller wheel. 2 miles is a long way on a little wheel.
I have been doing a bit over 4 each day and it takes me about 50 minutes.
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Athlete at the Wheel!
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Athlete at the Wheel!
Hardly.
But thanks.
Riding has been frustrating as hell lately.
I think I should have exited gracefully a while back - like Sting did from the Police.
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I bobbled on a mount the other day and fell forward just enough to rake the pedal up the back of my leg.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczNRCrAdqvlv535EycpQhF8olVnEfbPRsc6InFafafwwrPMVfRAx-I2dzBps2m4pifch8-ogq634pcJUGkchCylYNDakg2K3KsejVXaRzqRCkLGx0qHAo0_sXMxpQFZY-0nqVfj5RQBhgwqOQCGPiiNm=w629-h839-s-no-gm?authuser=0)
I've been having trouble with the 36 inch wheel for months. After replacing the tire (to no avail) I began hypothesizing that something must be bent. Thus far I have replaced every part except the frame (tire, pedals, cranks, rebuilt wheel, seat post, seat). In the process, I learned how to lace and true my wheel (new hub, bearings and new spokes). I'd order a frame but it turns out I won't be able to get one until next year. In the interim, in an attempt to eliminate myself as the cause of the riding difficulty, I ordered a 26 inch wheel (what I learned on) and started riding that. Now, trying to ride the 36er feels even more foreign - something I have not experienced in the last decade of riding it. WTF?
I am determined to figure it out and have even started thinking about ordering a 29 inch wheel to see how that feels.
Maybe I should just get a 20 inch wheel, learn to juggle and join the circus.
Like the White Whale - it beckons...
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczOhG9By8n4LJHPfeH_pSfzgm09yOBiHOZMWVHGpMOvGXXBB7CgQB3EpdXayWVnM6LM0NrMFT6dubJv7k_eIzN-pbjgg5mpTjFp3rF9NR7aUwyFoepN9Gw8AlMV-FY2p97mpgK2gvkrcNSv5BZp6IpuU=w1118-h839-s-no-gm?authuser=0)
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Hold it, I thought you were a member of the circus already? And you left us all here while you travel.
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Do you have one of those stands to true your wheel? I guess you could flip the unicycle upside and throw it in a vice or something.
Recently bought this book about wheels an wheel building by Jobst Brandt. https://www.isolapress.com/shop/jobst-brandt (https://www.isolapress.com/shop/jobst-brandt) Might have posted here before but his other book is really cool too. A lot of photos of riding on the Peninsula and Santa Cruz mountains pre- MTB. Also some good photos of riding Sonora Pass in the 70s. I highly recommend both his books. Looks like the publisher has some other cool titles that I have not bought yet.
How's riding the unicycle in Kentucky? People doing a lot of double takes?
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There are no truing stands for 36 inch wheels but the frame works. I just took the seat off and screwed the seat post bracket to a couple pieces of scrap plywood and then used zip ties for side to side and painters tape for up/down. Lacing the wheel was a trip and I did buy a spoke tension meter from Park Tools. I tried a cheapie first and it was junk.
Those books sound cool. The guy I used to climb with in Red River Gorge used to ride the trails in the gorge back then. He has some wild stories to tell.
Folks in the neighborhood are used to me after so many trips back here but they still get a kick out of it. I always get a smile a laugh or a wave (or all of the above).
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AP1GczM0N_JXEnYOrWl4UPFp7nTLAcSP2mIHVeeyQ7xGioEB7qvXJeKBvlQ7GVzHJrmCwYj-r1ByjtUDpjA1musliCuqzbFdjuGobkMuA2Ktu_TR5vpDYxcHBU4B0PBSSKoDMv2siDjVoxZPD84H-lGwvrN7=w629-h839-s-no-gm?authuser=0)
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Took a nice ride today on my 29 inch wheel. After being in KY all those months and riding a 26 inch wheel while I rebuilt my 36 inch wheel, I grew accustomed to the smaller wheel again and found it a terrific workout with much less challenge to mount (an easy rockover instead of all that jumping and failed mounts). I noticed the 29 inch wheel was just a few more bucks than the 26, so I decided to order one and work my way back up to the 36 slowly. Well that didn't happen and I wound up never even trying the 29 until we got back to California. I rode the 26 a couple times when we got back and then switched to the 29. Been riding that every day since. Kat took this short video of me a while back.
Kat and I just sat out in the sun on the deck enjoying this perfect day before we all get plunged into the darkness that is Daylight Saving Time. Cheers to your next spin...