Fallish Weather

Today's weather was incredible. A perfect 65 degrees for an after dinner session and the recent rainfall has left the trails nice and tacky...a gift from the bike gods for sure. Sweet sunset on the ride home too.

Suicide Six Race Recap

As has become the norm Park Ave Bike put on another awesome race this past weekend. The Suicide Six is one of those races that really shines a light on the upstate NY cycling community and the grass roots type vibe that got it all started. Such a top notch event-from the course itself to the people running it, yet so laid back you'd think you're just out for a spin with some buds. It's held yearly at Harriet Hollister Spencer Park, Springwater, NY, and this year PAB added a Duathlon to the weekend as well.

These are not your typical fru-fru racer trails. The moderate to super techi, wicked fast, rugged, awesome, all-mountain style trail network is worth hitting whether you're going to race or just to ride. The facilities right at the trail heads are pretty decent too (toilets only), not to mention the sweet overlook of Honeyoye Lake about a mile or two into the loop. 

I raced with Casey from Geneva Bike so I was stoked to have one of the most technically skilled riders there on my side as everyone knew the weather was about to take a sharp turn for the worse. I went out for the first lap and it was one of the most fun laps i've ever done at any race. It was a super mellow start and then we just hammered away a gap once into the woods. I was in a PAB sandwich for much of the lap, then right before the end we sprinted it out up a super loose atv road into the last hole shot and I was able to edge the guys off to grab 1st for the first lap. My other Crankskins teammates, Bixby Bros. inc., edged us out by seconds in the end and snagged 1st place, with Casey and I pulling a hard earned 2nd. Gotta say...racing with the Bixby Bros. is much more pleasant then racing against them!

Next on the list is a race i've been looking forward to all year. The Single Track Stampede at Sprague Brook Park is one of the most demanding and brutal races around. From what i've heard i'm in for a soul crunching, churn and burn style slow speed sufferfest. I missed it last year but I can't wait to give it a go this weekend. Having ridden the network in the past I know just how choppy and crazy technical it can get-especially hours into a race. Should be a blast-hope to see you there!

Sweet trophies. Casey's business, Conte Woodworking designed and produced them:

Specialized Captain-possibly the best all around front tire of all time. The thing hooks up so
well and rolls so fast, not to mention how solid it feels over those sharp rocks and
thorns. Even while hammering the brakes into peanut buttery and root/rock
littered switchbacks it keeps begging  for more. It's great for catching
cats too-much like with a crab basket they find their way in but
are seemingly unable to escape.

Yes, it's true...

Yes, it's true...

Suicide Six Course Recon

Headed down south to check out this weekend's Suicide Six Course. Not only are trail conditions excellent, the course is amazing. It's going to be quite a race this year! 

The course is downright wicked!

Nice sunset to drive home to

The big day!

Can't believe that my lil sis is getting married today!!!
(rehearsal photo)