Omaha-Commute

oversized load

2008-11-19T22:15:00.004-06:00

Went to Lowes for some window flashing with mary and bob. Flashing came in 10' length. Fortunately, was able to hold it down with bob's bungy cord. Had the flashing start just behind my pedal stroke and it hung out the back of the bob about 5'. Should have tied my hanky on the end.

Left turns were very wide to keep the flashing out of the rear wheel. Get home without mishap. Go to move the bike and turned to sharp, flashing went between the spokes, flashing bent with nice crinkle. 8-( Still worked ok.

I missed a great picture

2008-10-23T12:28:00.002-05:00

As I was riding in this morning, I missed a great photo opportunity. As I passed under 72nd street on the Keystone, I noticed two small kittens curled up with each other under the bridge. They were staying warm and out of the wind and rain. It was really cute, but they scampered away before I could get a picture.

I'm looking forward to a dry bike ride home for a change. How have the rest of you bike commuters been fairing in the wet weather?

Bike Omaha... a new blog

2008-10-22T12:45:00.002-05:00

I've been working on a project for a few weeks to create a blog dedicated to bike related topics in Omaha and the surrounding areas. It's more of a news/get involved type blog. Have a look if your interested.

If you are interested in joining the team as an author, just let me know. We are looking for people to post about news, social events, and advocacy opportunities related to biking and using bikes for transportation in the Omaha and surrounding areas. We don't plan to cover MTB or Road racing as those areas are covered by other blogs, and the Bike Omaha blog has a widget to link to those news items automatically.

This blog will continue to be where we can all post information and stories about commuting in Omaha. If you don't have access to post, drop me an email at underdahill that at thing gmail dot com with your article and/or pictures and I'll get them posted up here for you.

sizzler rondevu

2008-10-11T03:33:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, Hannah and I rode from Benson down Maple to the Sizzler at 88th. From west Benson, we rode on the mostly 3 lane road to 72nd. Then hit the sidewalk b/c of the traffic and hills. Lots of non cutout curbs and on the way back, one telephone pole in the sidewalk beside a building that almost puts one on the street to get around. Not biking friendly but doable. About 15 minutes down and 20 back up.

Cycling Advocacy

2008-09-18T14:05:00.003-05:00

I listen to a few bike related podcasts on a regular basis. One of them is The Spokesmen podcast. While I was catching up on older episodes I ran across one that has a section in it that talks about Bike Advocacy. I thought it might be interesting to some of you. You can find a link to the podcast here or a link directly to the MP3 file here.

Why wait!

2008-09-18T14:05:00.002-05:00

Or in this case, why should you NOT wait.

As most of you know, I am a bike enthusiast. I like riding, I like the bike culture, I enjoy the improved health from riding, and I enjoy encouraging others that are getting started with cycling. I also like watching the bike industry to see what is out there or coming our way soon.

I recently purchased a new bike so I'm not currently in the market for another bike. However, just prior to buying that bike I had to decide if I wanted get one now, or wait a few months and get one of the new 2009 models that will be coming out in the next few months. During that decision process I learned a few things about the bike industry and how bikes are priced and what determines the cost/value of a bike. Some of the things that affect the cost of a bike is the cost of raw materials, the cost of shipping the product, and the value of the US dollar in relation to where the parts and frames are manufactured. Unfortunately, all three of those major factors are not going in a good direction. The dollar is very weak right now, shipping costs are going up with the cost of fuel, and the cost of raw materials for bike frames and parts are going way up.

So what does that have to do with you, or me? Well, bike prices are going up. Not just a little but a lot. The number I've heard most often is 20% across the board. So a $500 bike this year will soon cost $600 for the same quality. That means that bike manufacturers will have to offer less quality or just less value in bikes that are targeted at a specific price point or charge more to maintain the same quality/value.

So if your planning to get a new bike in the near future, DON'T WAIT. If you wait too long, you will pay more and/or get less for your money.

nice day to ride for an errand

2008-09-16T22:48:00.002-05:00

Started painting the house exterior last week. Needed more gas to mow the lawn. Combine the errands into one trip and enjoyed the ride!

Fog on the Keystone

2008-09-16T08:13:00.000-05:00

Bike and Ride (Instructions)

2008-09-15T14:52:00.002-05:00

By the end of the month ALL MAT buses in Omaha will have bike racks.

HERE is a link that explains how to use them.

This is a great way to make LONG bike commutes more manageable. The MAT system can also help you with east-west commuting needs since Omaha is notably challenged in that regard.

Cycling Commercials

2008-09-15T09:32:00.002-05:00

I found the link to the following video over at Amsterdamize.

bike n ride (a bus)

2008-09-12T10:36:00.002-05:00

Monday, Sept 15 at 17:00, MAT headquarters, 2222 Cuming St.

Learn how to use the new bike racks on the MAT buses.

Racks are being installed but not functional. They will be available for use starting Sept 29.

For more info:
http://mtbomaha.blogspot.com/2008/09/bike-ride.html

2008-09-12T09:03:00.000-05:00

Anyone know what the story behind this is? This artwork is on a billboard at the intersection of the Big Papio trail and 82nd street.

Small Wonders

2008-09-11T14:46:00.001-05:00

Bike friendly cities

2008-09-10T15:39:00.003-05:00

When people discuss what bike friendly cities are like, Copenhagen is at the top of the list. Here is a blog dedicated to the Bike Culture in Copenhagen. Copenhagenize.

So what do you think would help Omaha climb that list of bike friendly cities?

we should be careful out there

2008-09-08T13:43:00.002-05:00

I wrote this on munson's blog and decided to post here with some additions b/c of commuter content:

I stopped at the gas station at 132nd and Fort for milk on the way home from work Saturday around 18:00. A guy pulls in and runs up on the curb as I'm leaving. He yells out the window, "Who put this curb here?" He was lit up pretty well, probably from watching the game. We strike up a conversation and I smelled the liquor breath and noticed the slured speech. I tell him to be careful driving since he's had a few. He said I should be careful because of the drivers out there like him - "we don't see bikes on the road", distracted by phone or putting on makeup. He said he would never ride a bike on the road b/c of the danger. He had friends killed on a motorcycle by a cement truck.

Well his friend came out of the store with a case of beer and they headed home - a couple miles away. I should have offered to go get his beer next time so he doesn't have to drive while drunk.

I'm wondering if "Beer delivered by B.O.B." would keep me as busy as Eric is at Jimmy Johns?

Though I've been commuting via the SBL trail lately, I still rode home via Fort St. with the traffic. Everyone gave me space, had my yellow rain jacket on for the sprinkles.

cool commuting colors

2008-09-05T11:18:00.002-05:00

The city planted some wild flowers along the cement path on the north side of Standing Bear Lake. One curved section has them on both sides 6-8 feet tall - pretty cool commuting colors. Just a taste of the beautiful fall colors and temps coming our way.

commuters share with owh

2008-09-03T22:33:00.002-05:00

Article in owh on commuting. OWH requested submissions for alternative modes of commuting. More than buses, motorcycles, etc., cycling was the biggest category.

drawing attention

2008-08-28T23:07:00.002-05:00

This guy gave me space but there were a couple cars that didn't today on the way to work. I pull my bob trailer to get people's attention, make me look bigger, and hopefully get more space. Today, I think the attention drew some closer since they were looking at me while not moving left. Different time of day than I normally commute, different people, post lunch tiredness, whatever, the close ones didn't cross over the yellow line when there was plenty of room.

A quiet morning and a sunrise

2008-08-19T08:02:00.003-05:00

I'm always amazed at how quiet Omaha is at 6:30 in the morning. I don't really notice how noisy it is during the day until I get one of those early morning rides in. You can almost feel yourself decompressing, as you ride in almost complete silence, with only the sound of your breathing and your tires rolling along.

race prep commute

2008-08-14T13:20:00.002-05:00

Hannah and I rode to the Tranquility Tire Tantrum start/finish area to trim and cut with Donna and her sons Wednesday. Paul had mowed most of it beforehand. The bob suspension felt a little spongy so moved the setting from 25lbs to 45lbs. Noticed some difference.

Keystone Trail - Harrison Street Detour

2008-08-07T12:10:00.002-05:00

If you need to ride on the Keystone trail past Harrison Street, you will need to take this detour.

If you're headed north:
turn right at the Road Closed Ahead sign
head east through Sun Valley Park
turn north on S 52nd Street
turn west on Arrow Rock Drive
turn north on S 53rd Street
turn west on Harrison Street
turn north on S 60th Street
turn left into the trail head

If you're headed south - reverse the detour

Be careful on Harrison Street, there is no shoulder.

Community Bike Shop Auction

2008-08-05T12:50:00.004-05:00

This bike will be up for auction on Friday, August 15 from 5:00 till 7:00pm at the the Community Bike Shop of Omaha. Several other bikes and bike related items will also be up for auction.

CORRECTION: I just got an email from Stuart at the Community Bike shop of Omaha.

"We had a typo on our website. The auction is Saturday, August 16, not 15. Time is still 5-7pm."

So the auction is Saturday and not Friday. Hope to see you there.

The Community Bike Shop of Omaha is located at 33rd and California next door to California Taco. The address is 525 North 33rd Street.

This bike was refurbished with help from Bike Masters and the Bike Masters Cycling Club.

Bike Night 2008 - August 5, 5pm-8pm

2008-08-01T08:44:00.001-05:00

Returning this year to 33rd Street is the Gifford Park Neighborhood block party! Community Bicycle Shop Omaha has teamed with the Gifford Park Neighborhood Association to highlight bicycles at this year's celebration. Mark your calendar and plan to attend this evening of food, music, and bicycles!

Planned for the event are several bike-related activities, including BMX racers to 'show off,' a bicycle obstacle course where you can test your maneuvering skills, bicycle police officers, open repair stand for guests to use and more!

Bike Night will be a great event for families in 2008. Coinciding with National Night Out, we'll emphasize the right for all to use the streets safely. Volunteers will be face painting, always a favorite in Gifford Park. Also, children can sign up for library cards and choose from free library books! Live music, hot dogs, and fun!

commuter article in LJS

2008-07-30T23:11:00.002-05:00

Stole this
link from FFL posted 7/24. Very positive writeup on commuters and touring.

Cricket, Cricket, Cricket

2008-07-28T08:41:00.002-05:00

Where did everyone go. The trails are busy each morning and afternoon, so I know some of you are still commuting.

How is everyone's summer going? Anyone have entertaining commuting stories to share?

My favorite has to be the time a guy in a truck started yelling at me as he passed real slow so he could really unload. After a heated exchange (mostly on his part) he promptly got stuck in a LONG line of traffic as I went scooting on ahead in the not-so-slow lane. I sure hope he realized his mistake of assuming that I was the one holding up traffic. Either that, or he had an aneurysm on the spot. He did look close to blowing a few gaskets.

Interestingly enough, it does seem like a larger proportion of people driving trucks are not happy people. Almost all of the rude comments I get from motorists come from people driving trucks. Maybe it's just PFS (Post Fueling Syndrome).

Keystone report

2008-06-29T22:20:00.003-05:00

I rode the Keystone on the way home Friday just after the storm. Several trees were down along the trail. The following 2 trees are still down across the trail north of Maple near the end of the Keystone.

swanson dance

2008-06-24T08:03:00.004-05:00

Rode with Hannah Sunday to a rumba dance near 84th and F st. With Hannah dancing a couple hrs, I had time to hit up Swanson for a singletrack dance and return. Saw evidence of high water.

Big Papio and 72nd St.

RR at Seymor Smith Park north of Harrison St.

Had not rode Swanson since the race May 3. Access to Root of Evil hill is blocked by a tree (not that I was going to ride it anyway). The directional post had it's marker missing - wondered if the RoE hill section was being closed? Another tree down riding along the gulley just west of RoE hill. And some sad punk gang had to inflate it's puny self image by disrespecting property rights by painting it's initials across the kiosk plexiglass.

Good to get out to Swanson and ride, though I bonked riding back to the dance. Stopped at QT on 84th and ate a jaelepeno smoked sausage, gordetoes, two sobi's and a chocolate donut! Hannah and I were both toast as we got near home.

I CAN HAZ RESQU?

2008-06-17T10:05:00.002-05:00

I saw a small kitten corpse on the way into work this morning. Seeing dead animals up close is one of the few disadvantages of bike commuting. It was in the middle of the road on 90th just north of Fort street. When I went by, I noticed it move as cars were passing over the top of it. I did a double take and realized it was flinching and not just getting moved by the wind from the vehicles. So I turned around in the middle of traffic and directed the cars to the other lane (neon green jackets have their advantages) while I rode back to what I though would be a severely injured kitten. As I approached, the kitten got up and ran to the curb. I went after him and after getting bitten and scratched a few times (biking gloves have their advantages) I calmed him down enough to stow him in my backpack "kangaroo style" for a short ride to the animal shelter at 86th and Fort. It's amazing how fast you can get attached to an animal. It was torture leaving the poor little guy at the animal shelter.

standing bear lake high

2008-06-09T14:03:00.002-05:00

Rode through sbl with Hannah to her work. Taking the south side back, ran into water over the path.

The dock at the boat launch is underwater too.

Hurry... ride while you can

2008-06-09T08:58:00.002-05:00

While it's not raining, get out and ride those bikes. Just be careful of all the debris.

Somewhere in Iowa

2008-06-01T08:17:00.001-05:00

An unloved bike...

2008-05-30T13:48:00.001-05:00

...is a sad thing.

If you know anyone that has an old road bike just collecting dust in the garage, please send them my way.

I plan to resurrect a bike for my wife to get her feet wet (not literally) riding, and for me to tinker with LIKE SO to create a SS/Fixie commuter.

More details in the comments.

my road fix

2008-05-29T16:08:00.003-05:00

Haven't rode my geared road bike yet this year, been pedaling the fat fix everywhere.

Now I have a skinny fix.

Put a pair of 35c Schwalbe Marathon Supremes on the stock wheels. Barely squeezed a 48t salsa ring on, combined with a 20t tomicog, gives me a 66" gear. Don't want any taller than that pulling bob around. Looking forward to some road miles.

Hitchn a Ride...

2008-05-28T16:36:00.005-05:00

I had a few worms hitch a ride on my bike this morning. Anyone else brave the wet roads this morning? Fenders make the wet rides so much more pleasant.

ride of silence pics

2008-05-22T12:52:00.003-05:00

Police motorcycle escort for 50+ bikers. Police stopped traffic at all intersections for us while another group 10-20 rode two abreast in front of us. We stopped for a minute of silence where the rider was killed on Cornhusker a couple years ago. Several kids, etc. asked what we were doing while riding but we couldn't stop to explain. Hopefully, some newspaper reporters/photogs were there. Several hills strained out some family riders. I recognized a handful of people.

ride to remember

2008-05-20T11:13:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow, Wed, May 21; start at Keystone trailhead at 36th St Culvers, 19:00. See Bellevue Bike Club for more details.

2008-05-17T01:08:00.003-05:00

Hannah was invited to a model UN party at Papio Fun Park. I was happy that she agreed to my suggestion of riding there - over 20 miles. We stopped a couple times and ate at the DQ in Ralston. Took about 2.5 hrs total.

Big Papio Trail climbing out under W. Dodge.

Papio Fun Park

After three hours there, she was tired and mom picked her up to go home. I had pulled bob to carry change of clothes, books, etc. I thought 1.5 hrs to get home but it took me 2, stopping a couple times trying to take pics in the dark. Didn't work.

Hannah mentioned that cagers were smiling at us. I think with gas prices and commuting/cycling in the news lately, people seem more positive about sharing space. I think route selection is key - having a presence but not blocking traffic.

May 16th, Ride your bike to work day. YEA!!!

2008-05-16T10:08:00.002-05:00

I rode mine, did you ride yours?

I was rolling up on Leavenworth Street and saw another commuter heading downtown on Leavenworth. I merged into traffic and got in my lane when I noticed he was running all the red lights and not following the traffic laws. This is not good for our cause and makes the cagers not respect us so Please FOLLOW ALL TRAFFIC LAWS.

Mayor's Ride Video

2008-05-15T06:14:00.003-05:00

Here are a few videos of the Mayor's speech and a short video taken during the ride. Enjoy...

Ped Bridge Vid

2008-05-13T21:57:00.002-05:00

...from the commuter challenge kickoff ride...

Bike Lanes in Omaha

2008-05-13T16:17:00.000-05:00

Story Here.

2008 Mayor's Ride

2008-05-12T19:56:00.002-05:00

I took a few pictures during the Mayor's Ride this morning.

National Bike to Work Week, May 12-16th

2008-05-12T10:06:00.002-05:00

All week is bike to work week and Friday is National bike to work day. I hope some first timers will get out and give it a try.

fixed to freemont and back

2008-05-09T12:27:00.002-05:00

Took Mary out to Calvin Crest in Fremont Thursday, about 30 miles each way. 2hrs out, 30 mins to eat gas station food, 2hrs walking trail, and 2hrs back. Farthest fixed ride. 38x18 under geared for a lot of flat pavement. Going to buy some touring tires for the stock wheels and throw a 48t ring on for a serious road gear in the upper 60's.

Thursdays Lunch Ride

2008-05-09T09:23:00.002-05:00

Thursdays ride took me to my mushroom hunting spot for a quick look. Found a few but the numbers are going down. I think it's time to search for a new spot a little farther away.

Saw this guy sticking his head out.

As I was walking down the trail I noticed this big sucker.

Ended up with about 10 more. I'm going to start cooking them up tonight after work. Yummie.

Tuesday Lunch Ride

2008-05-07T10:33:00.003-05:00

I was able to get my co-worker Jeff to come out for a ride today over lunch. We headed out for my 12 mile lunch loop. Stopped by to see the little horse and there was a very mean doggie there so I didn't get to give him any carrots.

This was Jeff's 2nd time out on his new XO1 with clip in pedals so I thought it would be a good idea to take him on some single-track. He only fell over 4 times. Not bad for a newbie.

cars are coffins

2008-05-05T15:56:00.004-05:00

Took this pic on my way to the Swanson race Sunday.

I always take a look at the smashed cars in the city inpound lot off the Big Papio trail south of L st. Helps me imagine the violent impact of car on car accidents. Also reminds me that cars r coffins is more than a punk t-shirt design.

Lunch Hour Ride

2008-05-05T15:44:00.004-05:00

Went on a little adventure ride during lunch today. Up until today I wasn't too excited to go out and ride over my lunch hour but now I think it's something I'm going to try to do everyday. I was able to get in another 15 miles, some of it offroad.

Gobble, Gobble.

You get to see some interesting things when you start to ride new routes.

Do NOT disturb!

2008-05-05T08:56:00.002-05:00

How often can you do this on your commute to work in a car.

Friday

2008-05-02T13:10:00.003-05:00

Ran into another fellow commuter on the way to work yesterday. It sure was windy on the way home last night. That headwind and the never ending hill up Farnam Street about did me in. My legs were feeling it so I decided to drive today. I need a day off the bike before the race at Swanson on Saturday.

Weird Yard Art

2008-04-30T08:18:00.004-05:00

As some of you may know, my ride to work passes by 33 different Virgin Mary statues, but that is not the only form of yard art I ride by. I must say, these are my favorite kind of dogs to pass by on my bike.

It has been a good week of riding in so far. I have been crossing paths with a guy that rides the same route in the morning. It is nice to say 'good morning' to another cyclist as I ride into work. The other people I have begun to notice drive cars. One guy drives this huge, cherry red pick-up truck with at least a V8 engine. I try not to inhale his exhaust as he politely pulls past me over the interstate bridge. Another driver, a middle-aged woman who drives an older gold BMW grips her steering wheel oddly as she peers through the windshield. Her face brightly colored with make-up, her neck wrapped in gold, hair upturned in a fifties do. I swear it is her perfume I smell in the air. Needless to say, she doesn't understand the girl she passes each morning riding her bike to work. Hey, I think my hair turns out pretty good on the mornings in ride in! (;

Commute by Bike (in pictures)

2008-04-29T16:03:00.002-05:00

I got a chance to bike to work from Waterloo this morning, after dropping my car off for service (darn cars). I had extra time, so I took a few pictures on the way to work.

commute to trailwork

2008-04-29T11:22:00.003-05:00

Getting ready to leave. Fortunate living only a couple miles from Tranquility.
Last Sunday, family was out and about and both vehicles were gone. Being it was a great day, sunny with temps in the 50's, I had an itch to do some trailwork. With mary down waiting for a seatpost, I broke out the first bike I ever bought - an 02 Giant Sedona - a comfort bike. I hadn't ridden this in a couple years. After pumping up the tires, checked the slop in the hub bearings, checked a few bolts, loaded up and went for it. Kept the chain in the middle of the cassette and occassionally changed between middle and big ring. Old rim brakes pulling a bob didn't inspire much confidence. I missed fix braking with the legs. Coupled with Ginger on a retractable lead, this kept me on my toes when braking for intersections and passing other dogs. After some successful treadwork and talking with a few people, pulled onto the last block just as it started to rain. - Great timing! Tired, dirty, and hungry - the sign of a good time with a bike!

commute to class, mtb ride

2008-04-25T11:53:00.006-05:00

The weather was just right to convince Hannah to ride to her ASL class yesterday. Enjoyable, though a few drops hit us on the way home. About 3 miles one way.

Also rode to tnr at Swanson, from wet to dry and back to wet. Nice warm rain - didn't even break out the rain gear. That took me about 1.5 hrs one way. Need to work on my high cadence standing on pedals to get my bum off the seat. Stopped under 680 and Dodge on the way down to apply some assos to the tingly parts.

Man I love commuting!

2008-04-23T12:25:00.003-05:00

Oh... hello there. I'm new here. When T-Bone wasn't looking, I made a copy of his blog keys. Mwahaha!

Actually, T-Bone was nice enough to invite me to contribute to the Omaha-Commute blog. Thanks T-Bone.

I like pictures, so here are a few pictures of my commute this morning. Click the images for the large versions. Enjoy!

Extreme North section of the Keystone Trail
Me...and my ______
Yes, a commuter bike is fun on this too
My idea of heavy traffic
Heavy traffic for everyone else

Bike More, Drive Less

2008-04-18T15:00:00.002-05:00

Watch this.

The guy I work with filled up his tank today. $3.37 a gallon for the cheap stuff!!!

Video stolen from Mundson's Blog

But just think...

2008-04-18T10:57:00.003-05:00

all this rain will make everything bloom and turn green! At least I got one day in this week. I was only going to drive on Monday and Wednesday and well, yesterday and today I drove, too. Oh well, I have next week to look forward to. I have even talked a co-worker into commuting as well, needless to say he was a little disappointed by the weather, too! Kuddos to those of you who have good rain gear and rode despite the weather!

Wednesday

2008-04-16T10:30:00.002-05:00

55 degrees on the way in today was sweet bacon. It was nice not having to get all bundled up for the morning commute. Shorts, jersey and a light jacket was all I needed today.

Yesterdays ride home in 30-40mph winds was interesting. I've never been thrown around like that before. It's amazing how the wind can grab your wheels and send you off-line when your in a cross wind.

Monday

2008-04-14T09:57:00.003-05:00

Cold ride in today but hopefully soon it'll be shorts and t-shirt weather in the mornings. Lots of birds singing on the way so spring must be here.

friday was a bit windy and stingy

2008-04-12T10:55:00.003-05:00

Mostly tailwind pushed me to work. Took the north side of sbl home and saw whitecaps and felt like the rain had ice pelet centers. Now have yellow rain pants to match my yellow rain jacket. If I just had a yellow hood, I could be mistaken for a haz-mat cleanup.

Friday

2008-04-11T13:19:00.002-05:00

Wish I had one of these for yesterday and today. Next week it's supposed to warm up. Have a great weekend everyone and don't let this weather get you down.

Tuesday Night

2008-04-09T15:43:00.004-05:00

I went for a little spin downtown last night. I found a few nice drops that I need to come back and do on my downhill bike. We need to start getting more urban rides going this year. A few years ago we would do a Friday night urban ride every week. I can't wait for the warm weather to get here. This cold stuff is getting old.

I would also like to get a Critical Mass style ride going on the last Friday of every month. That night we did the leap year ride we had traffic stop and check us out everywhere we went. Tons of folks in cars seemed really interested as to what we were doing. It was a great time.

Sundays front page

2008-04-07T08:26:00.003-05:00

When I went to get the paper Saturday I was shocked to see myself on the cover. That's never happened before. The story turned out pretty good I think. I was surprised this was the picture they used. The photographer followed me to the Field Club trail for some shots and I thought they would have used those.

Friday

2008-04-04T09:20:00.003-05:00

Well I'm back on the bike. Still not feeling 100% but I miss commuting. Had a photographer come by the house this morning for some pictures for the commuting story. He thinks the story will run in Sundays paper.

It's supposed to be 70 tomorrow and I can't wait. This winter has been one of the longest I can remember. Last year we were riding in shorts a month earlier.
I was riding down Park Ave on my way to work and came across a crime scene at St. Mary's Ave. They had the whole intersection taped off and closed to traffic. Didn't see much but an empty street. Now that it's getting nice out I think I'm going to start getting out earlier and do a little riding around town before I head to work.

Thursday

2008-04-03T09:48:00.002-05:00

Well I haven't been riding much. I felt like crap all weekend and this week I've called in sick twice. Today I was getting ready to ride in and I looked outside and saw it pouring so I drove again. Tomorrow it's back on the bike. The World Herald is doing a story on Commuting and want a picture of me for it. I'll post something here when I know what day it's going to run.

commuter challenge meeting

2008-03-27T23:03:00.000-05:00

3rd year of activateomaha commuter challenge. Consider getting your company or employees to participate.

Thursday

2008-03-27T10:48:00.003-05:00

Yesterday after work I went for a little ride down by the river to take a look at the bridge. Man I can't wait till it's done.

The gap didn't look this big from my window but it's getting me really excited. Hopefully we'll be riding it by summer sometime.

It's going to be awesome being able to ride to LNC, Manawa, and the Wabash.

The ride to work today was a little wet. I guess that will ruin the TNR or Taco ride anyone had planned. This weather really sucks. I can't wait till it in the 60's and 70's.

Friday

2008-03-21T09:37:00.003-05:00

Another week of riding in the books. It sure feels good when I can ride the whole week. I just can't wait for it to be warmer. Right now I have to bring two sets of cycling gear to work. A cold set for the way to work and a warm set for the way home.

So yesterday on the way home I'm riding up Farnam Street just past the Smoke Pit on 25th and this guy is hanging out of his girlfriends car yelling at me. I yell "have a nice day" or something like that to him and that really gets him going. Then I sit up and give him the bird x2 and he get's so pissed he's about to jump out of the moving car. I tell him to do something about it as I'm reaching in my pocket for my camera. Oh that would have been sooo much fun if he would have gotten out of the car.

Thursday

2008-03-20T09:42:00.003-05:00

So yesterday afternoon I had to go to Lincoln to fix a laptop. I get all changed to ride home and get my scooter for the drive to Lincoln when I noticed I forgot my keys to my lock. Had to get a ride home and off to Lincoln I went. Got back from Lincoln, went home and got my car so I could go back to work and get my bike. I get my bike and notice the rear wheel rubbing. That's funny, I didn't notice that when I parked it. I figured someone must have backed into it with their car or kicked my back wheel. Once I got it loaded on my bike rack on my car I noticed a broken spoke. Didn't get it fixed last night so today I rode the road bike. I can't believe how much faster that thing is. It probably took me 5 minutes less to ride in today. Now that it's getting nice out this might have to be my new commuter bike.

Wednesday

2008-03-19T10:53:00.003-05:00

Had a nice ride in to work today. It's great when the sun is shining and it's above freezing for the ride in.

My head is still a little foggy after last nights CU game at the Qwest Center. Check out the nice pic I took of the game winner.

Friday

2008-03-14T08:54:00.003-05:00

Well after having the flu this week I was still able to get in two 1/2 days of commuting. My gut still isn't feeling right but at least it feels good to be riding.

The ride it was nice today but I think the ride home will be a different story. Have a great weekend everyone.

Wednesday

2008-03-12T14:06:00.002-05:00

Well Monday after lunch I started feeling a little funny. About 10 minutes later I was on the bathroom floor puking my guts out. Didn't think riding home was such a great idea so I got a ride from a co-worker. I'll save everyone the details but just so you know getting the Flu SUCKS! I'm back at work today (but in Lincoln) so I rode my scooter. Hopefully tomorrow I'll be back on the bike.

Monday

2008-03-10T11:20:00.003-05:00

It was a cold ride in this morning. I think I froze my eyeballs because I looked drunk when I got to work. Didn't wear the snowboard helmet or goggles becuse it's supposed to be warning up. It was wierd waking up to total darkness again because of the timechange. It's a good payoff if we get another hour at night IMO. Might have to start looking for some long routes home now.

Still Driving

2008-03-05T11:00:00.003-06:00

I had to go to Lincoln yesterday and today I had a Dr. appointment to remove my Ganglion cyst. The Dr. poked about three holes in it and nothing came out so he's sending me to an Ortho tomorrow. Looks like the rest of this week is shot. I hope the weather breaks next week, this cold stuff is getting old.

Monday March 3rd

2008-03-03T09:50:00.001-06:00

I'm back in the saddle. Still feeling a little sick but I took it easy on the way in today. The Field Club Trail was a sheet of ice in spots but the roads were clear.

Passed this old guy on the way in, he looked really cold. He had ice hanging from his beard.

Friday

2008-02-29T10:16:00.001-06:00

Well, this week I've driven all week because I'm sick. Monday is a new month and back on the bike to see if I can break 12 days in a row. Have a great weekend everyone and get out and enjoy the nice weather.

Monday

2008-02-26T00:56:00.000-06:00

Left after 2 and the rain had already turned to snow. Decided to stay off the roads and take standing bear and neighborhood streets.

Went through some water a little to fast.

The ride home after 8 was quite icy. The traction was ok between the tire tracks. Wind and temps weren't as bad as a couple Saturdays ago when that cold front came through.

Monday

2008-02-25T09:33:00.000-06:00

Mondays suck after taking a vacation. Seeing you desk with a mountian of work on it just makes me want to go home and crawl into bed. Drove to work today, we got home late last night and I didn't want to stay up getting everything ready. Weatherman says 1-3 inches of snow. It was 60 in Ft. Collins yesterday. I'm ready for spring.

Wed & Thurs

2008-02-21T10:54:00.001-06:00

Since getting free parking for the rest of the month it makes it much easier to drive the car. Plus the below 0 temps help make the car sound more attractive. I feel I may be coming down with what ever is going around these days so it may be the car for the rest of the week:(

Tuesday

2008-02-19T12:31:00.000-06:00

Quiet ride in this morning. Saw a very prudy sunrise out my window this morning but by the time I was on the road it was cloudy. I have to drive to Lincoln tomorrow morning to fix a printer so I might just say "screw it" and drive to work once I'm done. It's supposed to be cold as s#$t! Plus, the woman I sold my parking spot to dosen't like it so she said I could have my parking tag back for the rest of the month if I wanted since it's paid for. I don't know if the guilt of driving will eat me up inside or not. I've been debating it all day.

Week 3 Monday

2008-02-18T09:49:00.000-06:00

So it's the start of week three of my commuting challange and it just keeps getting easier. It's funny now when I look back and think of all the excuses I used to make not to ride to work. All it takes is a little planning and effort. Spring is just around the corner. I can't wait!

This week will be a 4 day work week because I'm taking Friday off. Heading Colorado for some snowboarding.

Week 2 Friday pm

2008-02-18T09:43:00.000-06:00

So Friday on my way home I swing by Rox's and Ryan's house to pick up some hockey tickets. I take Leavenworth from downtown all the way to Saddle Creek. To my suprise I see that Leavenworth Street is already wide enough for a bike lane and all that is needed is some paint. Ok city officials if your reading this, please paint some bike lanes on this road. How much easier could this be?

Week 2 Friday. Yes!

2008-02-15T08:57:00.001-06:00

I feel like I'm now officially a commuter. Two weeks of riding and it feels great. Not one day missed. No excuses, I just get my stuff on and go. My only hope is that I can keep excited and stay with it. It's going to be tuff when spring gets here and I want to ride my motorcycle though.

Today I was able to put my belt on a tighter notch. Makes me think back to fall when I had to loosen it one. I hope spring gets here early because I'm ready to start riding more after work and on the weekends.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Week 2 Thursday

2008-02-14T08:22:00.000-06:00

It was a very nice ride in today. I was having the "calm before the storm felling" though because I think the ride home will be much different today. It's supposed to get windy and COLD. Didn't get to see much of a sunrise because of all the clouds.

Happy Valentines Day.

People Power

2008-02-13T11:11:00.001-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=beF_gjnwU5E

Week 2 Wednesday

2008-02-13T09:28:00.000-06:00

It's going to be a heat wave today. High of 32 before it gets cold again. Friday's low is -2, burr. Man I can't wait till the days when I can wear shorts and a t-shirt to work. I feel like a freak walking around my building all bundled up and carrying my snowboard helmet. Oh well, it beats scraping the windows on my car and letting it warm up for 5 minutes just so I can drive 3 miles to work. I haven't driven my car in three days. It's going to be great not having to fill up my tank every week. Now I'll have more gas $$ to take bike trips. Speaking of bike trips, the first Landahl race is only 18 days away.

There was a great sunrise this morning. I just love riding in with the sun warming me up. Threw and extra blinky light on the back of my helmet today. I want to be seen by the folks driving into the bright sunshine.

On a lighter note, I've lost 5 pounds since I started commuting. It's like loosing weight without even trying. Now if I can only stop drinking beer and eating junk I should be in good shape by summer.

Week 2 Tuesday

2008-02-12T10:04:00.000-06:00

It was a few degrees warmer today so I ditched a layer since I was sweating like a pig yesterday when I got to work. Nothing exciting to report except when I got to work they wouldn't open the dock doors to let me in. I called security and they said they can only open them for delivery trucks. Humm, lets see. You will open them for a truck that could have a bomb in the back but you can't for someone who works here that's riding their bike to work. That makes a lot of sense. So I had to find the bike rack in the bottom level of the parking garage and take the public elevators to my office.

Before, I was able to come in through the dock doors and get on one of the freight elevators to my office. Now, I get to have all the suits stare at me with all my bike stuff in the elevator.

So after all the extra running around I had to do I was a little late for work today. I'm going to have a little talk with whoever is in charge of security and see if I can talk them into letting me in the dock doors.

Just when I get my routine running smoothly I run into this roadblock.

Week 2, Monday am

2008-02-11T10:07:00.000-06:00

3 degrees when I left the house this morning. I wasn't looking forward to it but once I got out there and moving it felt like any other day. All I needed was an extra layer and I was fine. Oh, and grab my face mask. Can't have any exposed skin at those temps. I picked up some new insulated/windproof cycling pants at the Trek Store and that helped.

I've also noticed that I'm feeling more comfortable with everything and I can enjoy the ride more.

Day 5 pm

2008-02-11T09:58:00.001-06:00

Week one is in the books. Had a nice ride home. Saw Shim in his car at one of the lights down town.

One thing I noticed after riding for a week is now riding to work feels normal. I don't miss scraping my windows, warming up my car, paying for gas/parking or walking from my parking spot to my building. I still have a few things to get more dialed in, but I'm really enjoying it:)

Day 5 am

2008-02-08T10:28:00.000-06:00

I'm happy to report that I'm one ride away from completing my first week of commuting. I may have to celebrate tonight with a margarita or two. It's not nearly as bad as I thought it was going to be. Once you get your route and routine down it's easy.

One thing I love about riding into work is seeing the sunrise. It just feels good when the sun is poking over the horizon and hits you with some rays.

Nothing exciting to report from the morning ride. I'm feeling more and more comfortable riding next to traffic. I still get a few close calls now and then but nothing too bad (knock on wood). Have a great weekend everyone.

Day 4 pm

2008-02-08T10:14:00.001-06:00

I had a Dr. appointment yesterday afternoon so I left work early and was going to ride there. Get my bike out and notice the wheel is rubbing on the frame pretty bad now. Change of plans, ride home and drive to the Dr.

The ride is starting to get easier now that I have a good route. It's funny how in this town if you take a street that is over a block or two the hills can be much bigger or smaller. Anyway, I get home with no problems ditch my bike and drive my car to the Dr.

After I got home from the Dr. I took my rear wheel off and trued it up. I think it was the first time I've touched that wheel but it had a bunch of loose spokes and was badly out of true. I got it straight again and put it back on. Good as new and ready for the ride tomorrow.

Day 4 am

2008-02-07T08:49:00.001-06:00

It was a little colder today so I decided to grab the snowboard helmet and goggles. It's nice having warm eyeballs in the morning. So my streets are still snow covered but I decide to ride the cross bike anyways. Made it to the Field Club trail and it was almost clear with a few ice patches. Tried Mundsons route suggestion and liked it so it will be go (Thanks Mike).

So I was going down Douglas Street just getting ready to turn onto 17th and go into my building when I decide to downshift into 1st. All of the sudden my chain goes into my rear wheel. I grab the rear brake and lock it up till I get to a stop (luckly no one was behind me). Look at my wheel and see it's now rubbing. I guess all those rear wheel curb contacts tweeked it a little. So tonight guess what I'll be doing. I'm also thinking of getting a commuter bike, one with a internal rear hub. All this road grime, snow and salt are not good for shifters and derailleurs. I was thinking about a Trek Soho 4.0.

So I get to work and my badge won't open the dock door. I call security and ask them to open it. Sit there for a few minutes and wait then a truck leaving opens the door and I ride in. Then some security guy comes up to me like I'm sort of terrorist asking me if he can help me. I'm like no, I work here. He says "let me see you badge". I show him and he lets me go. Thanks Mr. Security guy. That's the second time this week I've been stopped. Get used to seeing me.

Day 3 pm

2008-02-07T08:34:00.001-06:00

Nothing too exciting to report on my ride home other than I had to swing by Walgreens and Hy-Vee so it added about 15 minutes to my ride. I didn't get to try the new route Mundson suggested so I will try it on Thursday.

Oh yea, I did almost get run over about three times. Twice in the parking lot at Hy-Vee. The other one when I was just riding down the street.

So I just turned off Center onto 45th street by McFly's and I'm riding past the apartments behind the bar and this car coming my was starts to veer straight towards me. I'm like WFT and grab my brakes. This dumb ass then locks up her brakes and slides into the curb about two feet in front of me. I stop and I'm yelling at her through her side window. WTF are you doing, trying to kill me? She just sits in there looking straight ahead. I didn't know what else to do so I just rode away.

Day 3 am

2008-02-06T13:23:00.000-06:00

This morning I had to drive to Lincoln to do a laptop sweep and fix a printer so my ride to work was a bit later than normal. I left the house about 11:30 for a nice ride in.

Since my street wasn't plowed I had to fight my way to the Field Club trail before I could get any speed going. It was great seeing the trail already plowed and it was easy going till Woolworth where I get off the trail. Woolworth wasn't bad till I got going down the hill from 32nd ave to Park Ave. It is a very steep downhill with a very steep uphill. Cars always get stuck going up this and usually turns into ice from all the cars peeling out. Needless to say I hit a major ice spot at high speeds towards the bottom of the hill and I about shit myself when I got into a high speed tank slapper. I was able to keep it upright and barely squeezed by the car stuck on the hill.

Once I got past Park Ave I take 29th street to Leavenworth. 29th street was not very packed down so I was having a tough time getting through. I will know better next time we get this much snow and to ride my mountian bike. Leavenworth street was mostly clear so the rest of the way was easy. The last picture is a shot of the building I work in.

Day 2 pm

2008-02-06T13:04:00.001-06:00

So there was a little bit more snow on the ground for the ride back to westroads to pick up my car.
The roads downtown were ok but some of the sidewalks were bad. I was having to ride on some of them and it was tricky not knowing where the curbs were.

I swear this town is either up hill or down. I left work and headed up Douglas till the top of the hill around 25th or so and cut over to Farnam. The hill up Farnam past Mutual was a bitch. Then when I got to Saddle Creek I hit the neighborhood up the next hill. That was a mistake, I should have just stayed on Farnam because the neighborhood was slippery and the snow was deep.

Once I was at the top of the hill at 50th I cut back over to Farman and took that to Dodge. Rode the sidewalks from Memorial Park to Westroads.

Most of the sidewalks were not cleared so it was slow going trying to keep moving with those skinny tires in that deep snow. The final climb from 84th and Dodge to just past 90th almost killed me. I was going through 2ft drifts at the top of the hill. By the time I got to Stan Olsen I was delirious. The people there were staring at me in disbelief when I walked in covered with snow. It's a great day for a ride is what I told them.

Day 2

2008-02-05T11:43:00.000-06:00

Well todays commute was a little bit more of an adventure. To start with I had to take my car in for some work. So instead of riding from my house I got to ride from Stan Olsen Subaru at the Westroads. Right when I left the car stealership it started snowing. I decided to take Blondo to the Keystone. Once I got to the Keystone it was first tracks. Just around the corner from where this first picture was taken is where I had an unexpected surprise.
Bam, I'm down in an instant. If you look closely at the picture you can see how my back end started coming around on me. Then you can see my front tire start to slide, then my foot mark and finally my butt bounce into a 20 ft slide. I felt like I was sliding on a hockey rink.
Luckly nothing broke, my left shifter/brake lever was a little pushed in but that's an easy fix.
After taking a few shots I'm back on the bike and being more cautious this time. I'm heading over the bridge between 24hr fitness and Dodge and shortly after I go down again.
Damn, this is getting old. This time I went down on my rear der and broke off one of my blinky lights.
Now I'm starting to get mad. I was only hoping my shifting isn't all jacked up. Throw my broken light in my bag and check my shifting. All seems ok, so I get back on and tip-toe the rest of the way to Aksarben. I had to take a detour back home to get my snowboard helmet and goggles since my glasses were not working well in all the snow. Ended up riding 1hr 10 min and probably around 10 miles. The snow is still falling so the ride home should be another adventure.

Day 1 Commute

2008-02-04T10:59:00.000-06:00

Well, I finally did it and it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. When I stepped outside today to check the roads I all most fell on my butt. After that I started wondering if I should wait till tomorrow. Finally, I said screw it and got dressed.

I was amazed at how much grip I could get from my cross tires. I only hit one slick spot and the rest was fine. Took me a total of 23 minutes. Not sure about the mileage but I think it's around 3 miles. Now I just need to get my route and my routine more dialed in.

Only one close call to report. So I'm riding against traffic on the sidewalk on 20th between Farnam and Douglas when I come to an intersection crossing Douglas. It's a green light so I'm riding in the crosswalk and some A-Hole driving a Hampton Inn Van starts turing left onto Douglas street. I have my lights flashing and he finally stops a few feet before hitting me and honks. I should have stopped right there and put my bike in the cross-walk and went and had a talk with this guy. Oh well, next time. I continue across Douglas and get on the sidewalk and this jack ass is still honking and pointing. Next time I'll have my camera in my pocket so I can snap a picture and call his employer.

So overall day one was a good ride in. I'm still alive and feel good having done a little exercise first thing.