Getting to Know You! [Archive] - Page 3 - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

Allie1DukeFn

08-16-2005, 01:20 PM

Real name: Allison
Where do you live? Pine Grove, Pennsylvania

Explanation of your handle: I am a RABID Duke Men's Basketball fan!

Explanation of your avatar: I have 4 dogs and none of their pictures were small enough to use so I found this online! My oldest is going on 11 - Frankie - he is a golden/yellow lab mix. Next is Maggie, my only girl - she is our honeymoon baby - got her the day we got back from our honeymoon! She is a black lab mix and going on 8. Then there is Quinn - a golden retriever. He just turned 3 and is a handful. Finally there is Norm - sweetest dog ever, but DUMBEST dog ever! We say his brains were in his front leg (it had to be amputated right before we adopted him) - he is also going on 3. All 4 are rescue dogs.

Age (general or specific) 33 on Dec 5th!

Occupation: Information Systems Manager

Favorite bike: I guess the one I just got! I don't know enough to like any others!

What's in your stable? Trek 4300

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 24 going down hill, but I'm a chicken - I ride the breaks the whole time!

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I hate having my picture taken! And have tried to avoid it all together until I managed to lose my extra weight!

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I told my parents that our honeymoon baby Maggie just appeared on our back porch during a snow storm and the SPCA was full so we just kept her. When we actually got her at the SPCA. Didn't want to listen to them lecture me about having 3 dogs! We're still carrying that one on - trip over it all the time!

Most memorable moment on my bike: Haven't been riding long enough lately to have a good one! Have to go back to childhood! One would be I did a bike-a-thon for our local church. I was riding my mom's bike from when she was a girl - you can imagine how heavy that was! Don't even remember how long or how far I made it. I was the only one left and still chugging along the best I could. They made me stop because it was getting dark! I got horribly sunburned too!

The other one would be raising a friend back to my house - taking the corner too wide and smashing into a corvette that was parked at the curb!

Most fun ever had on a bike? So far every day I've been doing it! I just love seeing all the wild life and houses and just stuff!

CorsairMac

08-16-2005, 01:28 PM

WElcome to the board Allie! I had the same issue with my dogs/cats, the Humane Society had a 10 yr old cat that no one would take and I told then I couldn't coz I was already maxed out: they begged me to take her and told me to just "hedge" the # of animals I had so they could let her go home with me! There sure do seem to be quite a few of us here with copious amounts of bikes, dogs, cats, and horses!

skibum

08-17-2005, 05:01 AM

doctorfrau, where do you live in WV? What do you know about Charleston and Huntington?
I don't live there now, but I was born in Charleston and grew up in Huntington. My family moved away while I was in college so I haven't spent much time there as an adult. It was a great place to grow up. I used to bike everywhere, it was the main form of transportation for us kids.

Most of my friends did what I did and moved to big cities to start their careers after college. I was at a high school reunion a couple of years ago and found that many of them had moved back to Huntington. They were raising families and found that they didn't have the quality of life in the big city that they remembered having from their childhood. Sure, they had to take a pay cut, maybe not have their dream job, not as much going on as in the big city. But, they had less stress, more time with their family, etc.

So are you thinking of moving there?

riverroad

08-17-2005, 06:21 AM

Real name: Ann

Where do you live? the part of New Jersey with farms and rolling hills and a beautiful river (really)

Explanation of your handle: the road i live on

Explanation of your avatar: not yet ready to commit to an avatar!

Age (general or specific) 46

Occupation: copyright/corporate lawyer

Favorite bike: recently got my first road bike - a Giant OCR2 - and am madly in love with it.

What's in your stable? In our garage: 2 road bikes, 4 older hybrid/mountain bikes for riding on dirt roads, one toddler bike w trainign wheels, 2 trikes, and a joggeroo!

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? I am just getting started on the road, so (i) i'm not sure, and (ii) i suspect, not all that fast.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? not yet

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: about biking? none so far!

Most memorable moment on my bike: having lost 55-60 pounds over the last 2 years, i decided to push my weekend biking a bit last month - - i set off on a short (maybe 18 miles) but very hilly ride to a friend's house on a mountain bike in the HEAT. Altho i had to walk a small portion of the big hill, I made it, and felt like superman. I want MORE of what that felt like. So I got a road bike, have been riding it ever since, and am thrilled to have found this spot.

Most fun ever had on a bike? someone wrote about finding stunning houses on a bike ride; i am guilty of that pleasure too. Mostly, though, the fun part is the freedom and the adventure and the power....
__________________

doctorfrau

08-17-2005, 06:55 AM

doctorfrau, where do you live in WV? What do you know about Charleston and Huntington?

I'm in the Morgantown area (so only an hour and a half from Pittsburgh)and been here for 13 years. I've only been to Charleston twice and only passed thru Huntingdon on the way to somewhere else, so I can't give you the low-down unfortunately.

apple

08-17-2005, 09:45 AM

hi, i'm new!

Real name: courtney

Where do you live? alexandria, va.

Explanation of your handle: my dj name

Explanation of your avatar: n/a at this point

Age (general or specific) 30

Occupation: Editor/designer

Favorite bike: undecided

What's in your stable? motobecane supermirage

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? not sure, i'd say 25ish? definitely going downhill...

Another picture of yourself or your ride? lotsa pix, but none on a bike yet

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "oh i average 16 mph"

Most memorable moment on my bike: good: riding all day with someone i once loved, it started to sprinkle toward the end (yes, you can gag now)
worst: my first bonk!

Most embarrassing moment on my bike: falling standing still the first day i got my clips

Most fun ever had on a bike? road riding in rehobeth

CorsairMac

08-17-2005, 01:32 PM

welcome river and apple! and welcome to the wonderful world of cycling - kinda like the old wonderful world of sports but better!!

and we are women hear us ROAR!!!

Nanci

08-19-2005, 07:22 AM

Real name: Nanci

Where do you live? Alachua, FL

Explanation of your handle: It's my name.

Explanation of your avatar: Don't have one yet.

Age (general or specific) 46

Occupation: Radiographer

Favorite bike: Hopefully the new Trek!

What's in your stable? Titus Locomoto, GT MTB with road tires, new Trek 2100 WSD on the way :-)

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 35ish on MTB with 1.25 inch road tires.

Another picture of yourself or your ride?

http://home.alltel.net/nlevake/Bike/bike.htm

What is the biggest lie you've ever BEEN told: "I'm sterile."

Most memorable moment on my bike: good: MTBing, Slickrock Trail, Dupont Forest, NC.

worst: Crash a day before MTB vacation, ripping off a fingernail and gouging my elbow.

Most embarrassing moment on my bike: Falling three times MTBing for first time with BF.

Most fun ever had on a bike? MTB camping in NC.

MomOnBike

08-19-2005, 08:36 AM

What is the biggest lie you've ever BEEN told: "I'm sterile."

Oh.

Not certain if I should laugh or cry at that one.

Nanci

08-19-2005, 09:08 AM

Man, did I cry! Couldn't have happened at a worse time. And 23 years later, although it's water under the bridge, and I have my lovely daughter _and_ grandson, and had a happy life from then on, and didn't end up with the liar, it still INFURIATES me!

Nanci

CorsairMac

08-19-2005, 09:52 AM

WElcome to the board Nanci: I hope I don't offend but when I read the city you live in I kept thinking "Alachua" ......"bless you"! ;) and you have Got to let us know when your new bike gets here! We all love new bikes!!

Quillfred

08-21-2005, 09:52 AM

Now that I've thread the entire red...

Real name: Carole

Where do you live? Seattle, WA

Explanation of your handle: My beloved late dog's nickname

Explanation of your avatar: Hmm, I'll have to work on that

Age (general or specific) As of Feb. 13th - 50 and damn proud of it--having gotten this far!

Occupation: RN (in family planning)

Favorite bike: I am still growing into my 05 Trek. I have looked up other women's favorites and they are intriguing. Probably a Rodriguez (our local WSD), a Luna or such.

What's in your stable? Trek 1500 WSD and my GF's Trek 1500. Also a couple of sentimental rusties: Raleigh Supersport from the 80s and a Peugeot U08 from 70s. Do I need a mtn bike? There must be something to it, you make it look fun.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? not having yet invested in the Cateye, I would have to guess it was in my previous bike-lifetime: cycling to the top of a nice hill in Sonoma Valley and then having the exhilirating fly to the bottom on my over-sized Tour De France 10-speed.

Another picture of yourself: in good time

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Oooh, Ahhh, Yah Baby, Your're the Best! Thankfully I haven't used it for 25 years

Most memorable moment on my bike: Well, it is hard to pick one. It was memorable taking my first ride on the Trek and realizing how much I loved to bike and loved THE bike. Now I have baby peak moments when I ride to work: like a glance of the lake, Mt. Ranier, feeling myself improve and lusting after a bike vacation trip--maybe next year??

Most fun ever had on a bike? The best is always yet to come! Friday I got a giggle out of seeing a Tuxedo cat sitting in the middle of the Burke-Gilman trail doing cat yoga (both hind feet in the air and well, grooming). It would not move when I tried to scare it but merely looked at me nonchalantly.

DirtDiva

08-21-2005, 01:05 PM

Welcome to all you new/returning/delurking folk. :)

Quillfred, I envy your being able to see Ranier on your ride to work. There's a distinct lack of mountains in this country and I am finding that I miss seeing them greatly. :o

CorsairMac

08-21-2005, 01:38 PM

Welcome to the board Quill - and nice to meet ya! I ride with a friend here who has a custom Rodriquez (ok..so I can Say the name I just can't spell it! ;) ) and she LOVES it!

Zub_Zub

08-21-2005, 02:40 PM

Real name: Marie
Where do you live? West Auckland, New Zealand

Explanation of your handle: Just sounded cool one day, and it suck.
Explanation of your avatar: Umm not sure about that,

Age (general or specific) 17 on the 15 of feb!

Occupation: Student
Favorite bike: Hmm Im not sure, something cool.

What's in your stable? An old cannondale.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? about 80kms, Down tunnel hill(kinda steep but stright) like last year
Another picture of yourself or your ride? There on some web site, ill see if i can find one of me with out my team.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Hmm that the sign jumped in front of me....

Most memorable moment on my bike: The moment i cant remember, I crashed and got knocked out along with a broken arm and huge road rash.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Hmm round taupo last year(160kms) or any of the high school races in new zealand

Danariel

08-21-2005, 04:35 PM

Real name: Tiffany

Where do you live? Nashville, TN, US

Explanation of your handle: It's one of the names I use on Computer RPGs.

Explanation of your avatar: Don't have one yet.

Age (general or specific) Just recently turned 35.

Occupation: Student

Favorite bike: Well, it would have to be my new 2006 Specific Women's Hardrock Sport.

What's in your stable? See above. :-).

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Never ridden a Road Bike!

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Me & my bike Friday (http://danariel-bikes.buzznet.com/user/?id=1574803) .

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: That my sister and I had only snuck out of the house at night ONCE (when we got caught) when we had actually been doing it ALL SUMMER LONG. It didn't fly, because neighbors had told on us.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Haven't really made any yet, just bought her Thursday...however, I still remember on my second kids bike (It had a white frame with a yellow banana seat, fixie type where you had to back pedal to brake, ick) coming down a REALLY steep hill, and braking, back tire slewing around to my right like a hockey stop on iceskates, throwing gravel up in a rooster tail and impressing the hell out of the boys!

Most fun ever had on a bike? Riding Tenneco Trails (BMX type trails, used to be in Donelson before they built ITT over it) on my 3 speed.

Hmm, it sounds like I need to get out there and make some current memories!

teofelo

08-21-2005, 06:53 PM

pkq

08-22-2005, 09:02 AM

I don't live there now, but I was born in Charleston and grew up in Huntington. My family moved away while I was in college so I haven't spent much time there as an adult. It was a great place to grow up. I used to bike everywhere, it was the main form of transportation for us kids.

Most of my friends did what I did and moved to big cities to start their careers after college. I was at a high school reunion a couple of years ago and found that many of them had moved back to Huntington. They were raising families and found that they didn't have the quality of life in the big city that they remembered having from their childhood. Sure, they had to take a pay cut, maybe not have their dream job, not as much going on as in the big city. But, they had less stress, more time with their family, etc.

So are you thinking of moving there?

Possibly. I visit again this week and meet with more people from the plant. I have concerns about quality of life, since the area is so remote and lightly populated. I love the outdoors but don't live outdoors. Less stress in a career sounds good. The job is right, just don't know about the area. Thanks for the info skibum.

Trek420

08-22-2005, 12:07 PM

hi teofelo,

"How do people like to be addressed in this format? (username or first name basis) I am new to cycling and any type of chat room - any and all pointers will be appreciated."

ah, bulletin board culture. Around here we tend to address by user name. But you'll find less stress and worry here about giving out our real names. I think a lot of that is because more so than any board I've been on we meet up IRL. And it gets so complicated sitting down for the recovery drink...uhm, er meal and saying "Trek uh, um Dita, pass the salt"

Pax

08-22-2005, 12:39 PM

... I think a lot of that is because more so than any board I've been on we meet up IRL...
Hey Dita have you heard IRL referred to as "meatspace"? You know, online is cyberspace and real life is meatspace. That always cracks me up!! :D

Trek420

08-22-2005, 01:50 PM

I had not heard o' that. :cool:

CorsairMac

08-22-2005, 02:47 PM

Hi Kathie,

How do people like to be addressed in this format? (username or first name basis) I am new to cycling and any type of chat room - any and all pointers will be appreciated. How do I post my profile information/introduce myself for starters?

I read your profile today and found your answers interesting. How thrilling it must be to live in Albuqerque in such beautiful surroundings! I live in Richmond, Virginia, probably a much different setting from what you are used to experiencing everyday. Can you direct me as to where this type of information should go, as I am probably posting this where the thread of thought should ba a specific topic or response to someone.

Thanks!
Paula

Howdy Teofelo and welcome to the board! You can pretty much call me whatever stikes your fancy as long as ya don't call me late for food! ;)
You'll see quite a few of us using both real names and user names and even moving back and forth between both in the same thread!
As for answering this thread: just copy and paste the opening post and then delete out my answers and fill in your own. I remember the first time I posted a question here - took me Forever as I was so afraid I'd say something wrong or it wouldn't make sense - so many things. But this is the most supportive, awesome board I've ever had the pleasure of posting too - there is no such thing as a stupid question and we respect and help each other no matter what the subject matter!
Have fun and hope to see more of ya!!

oh: and it seems Cmac is the most common name for me but Kathie works just fine too! (I just gotta remember you're talking to This Kathie! LOL)

patty2

08-24-2005, 06:11 AM

Real name: Patty

Where do you live? Lovely Louisville, Kentucky

Explanation of your handle: Uhm. I think that is pretty obvious. ;)

Explanation of your avatar: The pic itself is actually part of a picture of a fountain at Ernest Hemingway's house in Key West. Then I changed it some using photoshop- to make it kind of a Pisces sign, since I am a Pisces.

Age (general or specific) 38

Occupation: Network Technician

Favorite bike: My old Mongoose, and my new Cannondale. Just call me indecisive.

What's in your stable? See above.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? I haven't ridden a road bike in so long ...

Another picture of yourself or your ride? This reminds me I need to upload new pics...

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Me? Lie? Never. ;)

Most memorable moment on my bike: Stopping at a water fountain to refill my water bottle when I notice a large dog standing in front of me. Figuring the dog to be as thirsty as I was, I went to pour some water from the bottle (I had the top off) into my hand so the dog could have a drink. Only to have the dog drink directly from my water bottle. Think big dog tongue in the water bottle. After the dog had drank the entire bottle, I filled it up again and then the dog drank half of that too. I however did not drink any from the bottle. :D

Most fun ever had on a bike? Anytime I get out to ride is fun for me. Well... except for those numerous times when I end up somehow under the bike or off the trail or spitting out leaves after taking an unexpected dismount. No... wait, those are fun too!

VenusdeVelo

08-24-2005, 06:29 AM

Patty,
You get the prize for the funniest "most memorable moment" I think!!!

CorsairMac

08-24-2005, 10:49 AM

ROFL Patty!! Welcome to that board - and I loved your memorable! too funny!

also: welcome to the board Zub-Zub! I Love that user name, makes me giggle every time I see it!

patty2

08-24-2005, 10:56 AM

Patty,
You get the prize for the funniest "most memorable moment" I think!!!

It is fortunate that I am a Dog lover as I am not sure how someone else would have reacted to having a big Dog drink all their water. A big thirsty Dog at that! It was sooo cute too. :D

ROFL Patty!! Welcome to that board - and I loved your memorable! too funny!

Thanks! :D

Jen71

08-24-2005, 11:51 AM

Real name: Jen
Where do you live? South Jordan, Utah

Explanation of your handle: I kept it from my runnersworld.com forum, my first name and DOB. I know not very creative. I am a triathlete in training, mother of 3 children and one dog. Not much time left for creativity.

Explanation of your avatar: I don't have one yet

Age (general or specific) 33

Occupation: Mom, Fitness Instructor

Favorite bike: I just started road cycling in May, so I don't have enough knowledge to know.

What's in your stable? Giant OCR3

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 40 mph, down a 15% grade at a triathlon clinic, last Saturday.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have any yet

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I dented my (then boyfriends/ now husbands) car, and said it happend when I was in the store.

Most memorable moment on my bike: I was riding the 14 mile leg of a triathlon training clinic last Saturday. At first all these athletes were passing me. I have just started to see how competetive I can be. I wasn't pushing all that hard, so I kicked it into a lower gear and took off. I ended up finishing with the three men that whizzed passed me at first. I was exhausted, but it felt great.

Most fun ever had on a bike? I went riding with a friend of mine who has a mountain bike. I borrowed my husbands bike so we could ride at relatively the same pace and we hit this winding country road, going down hill. The shoulder was gravel and rocks, so we were bouncing and sliding all over the place. It was really fun. A little scary, but we had a blast.

frances

08-24-2005, 08:14 PM

hi, i'm new to cycling and to the forum!

Real name: Frances

Where do you live? Cupertino, CA

Explanation of your handle: I lack imagination? ;)

Explanation of your avatar: how do you get an avatar?

Age (general or specific) almost 40 :rolleyes:

Occupation: Stay-at-home Mom

Favorite bike: don't know since I'm so new to this.

What's in your stable? 2005 Specialized Allez Elite

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Have no idea what the speed was -- still need to buy one of those accessories -- but it was coming downhill on Montebello Road (Cupertino) last Sunday.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Hm, I'm not very hip to this bulletin stuff...

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: The Tooth Fairy forgot to visit my daughter one night. I told her that the Tooth Fairy must've been very, very busy and she would definitely make it tonight but, that she ought to write her a note to make sure she knew there was a tooth waiting for her.

Most memorable moment on my bike: The good one -- reaching the top of Montebello Rd. The bad one -- falling in front of Starbucks, falling in front of my daughter, falling... well you get the picture.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Hard to say since I've only had it for a couple of months. I have fun everytime I ride it. I feel like a kid again! Wheee! :D

Musclicious505

08-26-2005, 06:37 AM

Hi everyone - this is a great place!! Im new to cycling but Im a life time athlete - love the bike - I have a lot of endurance and strength - working on improving my skills and technique. Thanks to everyone for sharing all your fun and information!

Real name: Carol
Where do you live? Albuquerque, New Mexico

Explanation of your handle: I'm a former bodybuilder/figure competitor/muscle girl and the 505 is my area code.

Explanation of your avatar: none yet....

Age (general or specific) chronologic 42 biologic 28 :p

Occupation: Auditor/cpa student

Favorite bike: mine :)

What's in your stable? LeMond Reno

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 25ish on a flat stretch of trail here in Albq

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Dont have any yet

Favorite ride - theyre all good so far till I have my first fall...aughh

mary9761

08-26-2005, 10:16 AM

Getting to Know You!

Real name: Mary McNeely
Where do you live? Indianapolis, IN

Explanation of your handle: my name and birthday (real original huh? :D )
Explanation of your avatar: avatar?? I could have an avatar??

Age (general or specific) 43 for another week and half :p

Occupation: Grandmother, Cloth Doll Artist
Favorite bike: My beautiful new Trek Navigator 50 :D (well it has 313.5 miles on it since 7/27)

What's in your stable?
Road: Trek Navigator 50
Mountain: Road Master Mountain Climber X Country (standby bike only now)

Fastest speed on a road bike? almost 26mph downhill, on my own leg power in the flats 18.8mph

Another picture of yourself or your ride? http://www.picturetrail.com/mary9761
http://www.picturetrail.com/mary_mcneely18

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I never lie....there, that's the biggest :D:P:D

Most memorable moment on my bike: so far, my first metric century a few weeks ago. I was a tired, hot camper when I got home, but WHAT an accomplishment I thought for someone who'd only been riding a month :P and looks like baby shamu on a bike.
The second would be the following weekend when I rode with a local group and made nearly 40 miles (starting at home) with only 2 very short SAG stops. :D That was one HOT day! I started having back cramps as we came in, but it was a 97 heat index :O I made it back home with a 52 mile day finishing in 103 heat index (be careful NOT to do that again!)

Most fun ever had on a bike? I would have to say it was probably one of those 2 days. The day of the metric I had a LOT of solo time, but did have a good time at breakfast with a group, but actually riding with people and not being left behind on the second day was VERY enjoyable in spite of the heat. :cool:

Trek420

08-26-2005, 11:00 AM

Patty's "Most memorable moment on my bike: Stopping at a water fountain to refill my water bottle when I notice a large dog standing in front of me. Figuring the dog to be as thirsty as I was, I went to pour some water from the bottle (I had the top off) into my hand so the dog could have a drink. Only to have the dog drink directly from my water bottle. Think big dog tongue in the water bottle. After the dog had drank the entire bottle, I filled it up again and then the dog drank half of that too. I however did not drink any from the bottle. :D "

I've trained my dog to drink from a sports water bottle, just tip it over her and she drinks as if from a fountain. The doggie mouth doesn't touch the bottle.

But she still has "her" bottle and I don't use it ;-) :rolleyes: ;)

CorsairMac

08-26-2005, 01:49 PM

whewwwwwwwww here's hoping I don't miss someone:

welcome to the board Jen, Frances, Carol and Mary!

Carol - Abq???.............wanna ride??

Mary - I've seen you on the BJ forum - glad you found your way over here. I read your first metric post and congrats on you hun - you've also come a long way in the personal goals you've set! good on y!

Jen and Frances: welcome to the board, welcome to the forum - goshdarnit just welcome. We were all new once and some of us (like me) were scared to death to post something, afraid it would be the wrong question, or no one would understand etc etc. You won't find that here, hope to see more from both of youse!

Musclicious505

08-26-2005, 07:08 PM

Hey CMac - thanks for the welcome - I would love to ride - thanks for the offer - but Im somewhat of a newbie so ya gotta be patient!

I have to ask though - what is the BJ forum???? hee heee :eek: :D

drplasma64

08-26-2005, 08:17 PM

I have to ask though - what is the BJ forum???? hee heee :eek: :D

Hmmm yes, that does sound *ahem* interesting. Really, it's bikejournal.com - a great place for keeping track of all sorts of your cycling statistics.

Musclicious505

08-27-2005, 07:30 AM

Cool - I thought as much - but it just looked so funny :cool:

DrBadger

08-27-2005, 04:01 PM

Hello all-
I just got my first road bike about a week and a half ago, and have been lurking on the boards for about 2 weeks. You have all been so helpful already without even knowing it! I took my first "real" road ride today and loved all 22 miles of it, so figured I was a real roadie now, so should introduce myself. I hope to meet and maybe ride with some of you soon.

Real name: Ellen
Where do you live? Palo Alto, CA

Explanation of your handle: PA for Palo Alto, where I live, and Badger because I did my undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin - Madison and will be a Badger for life!

Explanation of your avatar: Don't have one yet

Age (general or specific) 26
Occupation: Graduate student in Geophysics

Favorite bike: My "new to me" Trek 1500 WDS

What's in your stable? Mongoose Rockadile Pro Mountain bike, 2005 Trek 1500 WSD

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 34 MPH! Today going down a hill on Portola road on my first "real" road ride (ie. not on bike trails)

Another picture of yourself or your ride? not yet... will get one soon

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I don't lie ;)

Most memorable moment on my bike: first time I road my new road bike. It just went so fast!

Most fun ever had on a bike? going REALLY fast down one of the hills on Portola Road (hit my fastest speed ever or 34 MPH!) I had this huge smile on my face and was alternately thinking "this is SOOO much fun" and "Oh, my God I am going to die!"

CorsairMac

08-29-2005, 09:49 AM

ROFL at the "this is so much fun/Oh my God I'm gonna die"! Wait til you start hitting speeds over 40 - you will get Such a rush from that and then go home and think "OMG..what Was I THINKING???!!!"

Welcome to the board Badger! and yet Another CA lady, makes me think I'm just gonna have to move there - live off all my TE friends and just ride! :rolleyes:

limewave

08-29-2005, 10:51 AM

Real name: Heather
Where do you live? West Michigan

Explanation of your handle: I can't remember where it came from.

Age (general or specific) 27

Occupation: Art Director

Favorite bike: Waterford-my first road bike :-)

What's in your stable? Giant OCR 2, Waterford w/ campy 8, Trek Fuel

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 39 mph descending block house hill last summer

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: My parents think I have a college degree.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Finishing my first "B" group ride. I had gradually upgraded from "womens" to "C's" and finally the B's! I had never been so confident in my own abilities as that moment. I had to stop to throw up on the way home, but it was worth it :-)

Most fun ever had on a bike? Mountain biking in north carolina. It was my first time truly mountain biking and I was so timid and slow when we started our ride . . . I almost went back to the car and was going to read while my husband mntn biked. But he pushed me on. Towards dusk we got lost and found ourselves in a very swampy area. My husband ran our bikes across and then came back and had me jump on his back. He took one step and sunk waist deep into the muck :-) I ended up wading over through the swamp by msyelf. Towards the end we were cruising up and down the trail and finally made it back to the logging road--the same trail we had initially started on. I realized I wasn't afraid of the trail anymore and I had a blast. It was the best time ever.

CorsairMac

08-29-2005, 11:41 AM

welcome to the board Heather! a Waterford?? *wiping drool off the keyboard* sweeeet bike my friend! so where in Western Mich? I was born and raised in Kalamazoo, still have relatives there and pretty much all over the lower western part of the state?

limewave

08-29-2005, 11:59 AM

Corsair, I'm from Muskegon area. I do love my waterford. It was a gift from my husband and my first road bike. I had no idea at the time what a nice bike it is. It's actually set up for cyclocross more than for road riding.

Ninabike

08-29-2005, 03:57 PM

Hi girls,

Been on this board for a while, but just getting around to posting here.

Real Name: See handle.

Where do you live? Los Angeles, California

Explanation of your handle: Duh..., see Real Name.

Explanation of your avatar: Don't have one yet.

Age (general or specific): 61, going on 40.

Occupation: Attorney

Favorite bike: My brand new Colnago C-50!!! (Hubby getting his this week!!)

What's in your stable? Colnago, Bianchi Giro, Bianchi Alfana

Fastest Speed on a road bike? where? when? 34, going down far side of "El Tigre" in Mexico.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? No digital photo yet, will get one soon.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Can't remember!! Ha, Ha

Most memorable moment on my bike: Last year, had just gotten back into riding; rode the Rosarito Beach to Ensenada ride. It's a great ride but with a big hill in the middle. I really wasn't in shape and climbing that hill was a real challenge (no granny gear and my chain kept popping out of low gear in the back). I felt soooooo good having accomplished that hill.

Most fun ever had on a bike. I really have fun every ride. I started riding in the early '60's when the only frames were Italian or Swiss; the only components were Campy (Grand Sport); the only tires were sew-up (tubular) and riding shoes were thin black leather with leather soles and aluminum cleats. (Am I dating myself or what??) I had many a great ride back then with one of the few bike clubs which existed in Southern California, and real road bikes were a rare sight on the streets. I road with my brother who was a really great rider. He even broke some local records (he plays golf now and hasn't ridden in years). The owner of our LBS was a former Olympic rider who let us work on our bikes in his shop - with his tools. We learned alot that way. During the '70's, I got my hubby-to-be into riding but that was short-lived because we bought a sailboat. I am now a 30-year sailor who has gotten back into riding. Hubby has too!! Because we love it so much, we decided to spring for the "big bucks" and go for Colnago's. Oh, how did I get back into riding? One of my partners who goes to spinning class, said her class was going to do the Tour de Palm Springs (25 mile portion), but most of them hadn't really ridden bikes much. Well, I had never been spinning, and didn't have a bike, but I said, "Oh, I could do that" (not having ridden in 25 years). Three days later, I had a Bianchi, and three days after that, I rode in the Palm Springs ride. The members of the spinning class were asking ME how to change gears, etc. And "the rest", as they say, "is history". Well, that's my story and I LOVE this forum.

CorsairMac

08-29-2005, 06:30 PM

and Nina - and oldie but goodie belated welcome to the board!!

jeannierides

08-30-2005, 01:36 PM

Welcome, Nina! This is an awesome board, with lots of support. I ride a Colnago Master Light, as does my S.O. They are awesome bikes.

doorah

08-31-2005, 09:12 AM

Real name: Debbie

Real Nickname: Doorah

Where do you live? Muskegon, MI USA

Explanation of your handle: Was a name given to me by our local Cable ISP and after the family lol it ended up sticking! It seems I truly am a doorah!

Explanation of your avatar: avatar??....you mean I could have an avatar??

Age (general or specific) 47 on October 1st, yikes!

Occupation: Employment Seeker

Favorite bike: My only bike~sitting in the box waiting to be assembled :)

What's in your stable? Marin Alpine Trail HT

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Been so long, I don't think they had speedometers back then...

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have any...yet!

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: It was to my Mom & she taught me at an early age it's easier to tell the truth or keep my trap shut :)

Most memorable moment on my bike: I only recently got interested in cycling again. My history is minimal, the proverbial Huffy with child carrier back in the 80's. My best friend & I started walking for health, fitness & weightloss two years ago. I've lost 30 of the 70 lbs I need to loose to be in the healthy BMI range. We chose to add early morning bike rides to our game plan earlier this summer and I have been riding either her Fuji or her Mom's Huffy. Both of them are over 5'10" and I am only 5'1 3/4", so I'm sure you can all imagine my experience so far. Uncomfortable, awkward & short-lived! I only recently discovered this site via my videofitness.com site...and I am afraid to admit this but here goes.....I ordered a bike off the internet without ever having test ridden it or even one produced by this manufacturer! It all started back in 1997 when I received an email about the Marin San Anselmo City Bike. It was love at first sight! Back then it came equipped with fenders & paniers(sp?). I researched and printed everything I could find on Marin Bikes & this bike in particular. At the time I was employed and had big plans of commuting to work the following Spring on my beeeeeeeeeeeeUteeeeeeful new Marin San Anselmo. Well in February the following year I lost my job & have been dreaming of this bike & visualizing myself gleefully cycling all over the area perched upon it! Fast-forward to today. I found this bargain for the Marin Alpine Trail HT Mountain bike at $185.99 ($225.00 with shipping), regular price $380(419.99 with shipping). After debating & researching, I asked my BIL who has been an avid cyclist for the past 2 decades what he thought. He said it's a fabulous bike for the money, that he rides his MTB both on & off road and it would be 'perfect' for my needs. Well, it arrived an hour ago & I'm nervous as all get out since reading all the fabulous advice on this site from you fantastic women.....wish me luck?

Most fun ever had on a bike? Back as a young teen, 6 of us decided to bike to our family campground instead of riding with Mom & Dad...about 30 or so miles....but this involved an extremely steep downhill ride that scared the ****ens out of me! PS: Again, embarrassed that my experience is 30+ years ago!

I am so glad that I did find you ladies & this site, better late than never!

~doorah~

CorsairMac

08-31-2005, 10:36 AM

Welcome to the board Doorah!! a new bike!! Me Wuvs new bikes even when they aren't mine! and you get to put it together?? how exciting is that?? I keep wanting to tear mine down just so I can put them back together! LOL and congrats on your weight loss! goodonya and keep up the good work! we'll wanna know what you named your new love, and all about your first ride, and your first 1/2 century, and and and............. :D

java

08-31-2005, 11:13 AM

I've been lurking, time to fess up. Greetings, all...

Real name: Mary

Where do you live? Seattle

Explanation of your handle: It’s all about the bean, eh?

Explanation of your avatar: I thought the colors were kind of cool looking.

Age (general or specific): 51

Occupation: print media manager

Favorite bike: Don’t have a favorite yet, but may buy a road bike later this year. I've owned Fuji and Centurion road bikes, but that’s going back 15 - 20 years.

What's in your stable? 2003 Trek 7500fx and a 1993 Bridgestone XO-4, an oldie but a goodie.

Fastest speed on a road bike? On my hybrid, maybe 32 (downhill). I get equal parts "gogogogogo!!!" and “whatintheheckareyoudoingareyoucrazy???!!!” flashing through my head, though.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Nooooooo….

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I've never been good at telling tales. So, nothing much comes to mind. Truly.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Oh geez. Back in the summer of 1973, I was blasting down a winding road when I t-boned a big ol’ bloodhound of a dog. I flew over the handlebars, my trusty bike flipping before landing on my back as I skidded along the pavement. The dog went whooping off into the woods. The dog turned out just fine though, and I managed with just a bit of road rash and a few divots in my right elbow. Don’t know how that dog didn’t get his ribs broken. I’ll never forget him looking at me as he continued to cross my path no matter how much I tried to move out of his way.

Most fun ever had on a bike: Every day I ride is the best.

CorsairMac

08-31-2005, 11:23 AM

welcome to the board java! Love the id (as I sit here drinking my iced Colombian coffee for lunch!!) gee...java/seattle......LOLOL
Loved the story of you and and bloodhound although I thought you were gonna say he came over and licked ya while you were laying there,,,after causing your accident!

go get em

08-31-2005, 12:24 PM

Real name: Jacqueline
Where do you live? San Diego, California

Explanation of your handle: Some of the guys I ride with gave me that nick name cause I'm always chasing riders who pass me.

Explanation of your avatar? Guess 'll have to get one of those.

Age: 39

Occupation: Preschool teacher

Favorite bike: Tarmac(Specialized)

What's in your stable? Scattante, Tarmac and Gary Fischer (hoo kooe koo)mountain bike.

Fastest ride on road bike? Not sure. I'm just glad I'm not in the back of the pack anymore.

Picture of yourself or your ride? I have a great picture of my first ride with a group of guys and while the picture was being taken someone sayed "she's the flower among the thorns." Cute! Don't know how to post it though.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told? That I didn't peek at my present (hamsters cage) when I was little. A few days later after I got my hamster(Charlie) he ran away. So I thought god was punishing me for lieing. When I confessed my hamster came back. Weird! Never lied again.

Most memorable moment on my bike: While on a ride the guys wanted to take an alternate route because the rode we were on was washed out. I said "no way am I going to take the alternate route. It's a dangerous road. I'd rather cross the washed out road."(which was now a creek). So I hopped off my bike, took my shoes off and carrying my bike and shoes I climbed down the embankment and crossed the creek. My shoe fell in the water while crossing and the guys started yelling "your shoe is floating down the river." The picture I have in my mind of that day, though, is of all the guys(15 of them) and their bikes sprawled out on the ground drying their feet.

Most fun ever had on a bike: As one of the other ladies said "every ride is fun."

WarriorPrncs

08-31-2005, 01:54 PM

Real name: Terri

Where do you live? South Orange Country

Explanation of your handle: My cat is Xena so she is actually the Warrior Princess

Explanation of your avatar: n/a at this point

Age (general or specific) 50 (Did I actually admit that!)

Occupation: Director of Business and Finance

Favorite bike: undecided

What's in your stable? Specialized Dolce Elite road bike and Rockhopper full suspension mountain bike

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? I'd say about 35ish going down Newport Coast. Going up is a different story!

A picture of yourself or your ride? I'll try to upload one.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I just turned 29 on my last birthday :D

Most memorable moment on my bike: Good: when I can keep up with my husband and the boys. Worst: Last century when I wore my PI Microsensor shorts and they gave me an owee :eek:

Most fun ever had on a bike? Riding down to Solano Beach in San Diego with Susan, Tommy, Deb, Steve and my husband Don. Having lunch and taking the Metro Link back to the Irvine station. :cool:

CorsairMac

08-31-2005, 02:31 PM

Welcome to the board ggetem and warrior! as always I get such a kick outta everyones most memorable stories!

ggetem I just had this visual of you holding your bike double handed over your head with the water swirling around you and just giggled! you go girl!! and the story of your biggest lie was just too cute!!

warrior: I'm allergic to something in the PI shorts - probably the antibacterial they use or something, I wore a pair 1 time and Holy Smokes was I a hurting baby! so my heart goes out to you and your PI experience!

mary9761

08-31-2005, 02:40 PM

I finally dug out an OLD picture for my avatar :D my Nickname has been NightMare for a LONG time given to me by some dear friends so I thought I'd dig up a pick (for now anyways) of myself and Alice Cooper when I met him in '87. :eek: :cool:
Once I get some of my jerseys made with the cool spiderweb lycra I'll take one with it :D

doorah

09-02-2005, 12:28 PM

we'll wanna know what you named your new love, and all about your first ride, and your first 1/2 century, and and and............. :D

Hi & thanks for the warm welcome :)

I named her Lucy because I love her~I Love Lucy!

As for my first ride~aside from needing to lower my saddle as I was placing too much weight/pressure on my wrists & hands~I was terrified as I live near an industrial park and I'm not used to having semi's whoosh past me 2 & 3 at a time/in a row lol!

I need to check into a hitch rack since I have a 2" hitch and numerous rail trails & bike paths along the lakeshore to enjoy!

~doorah~who's off to search the threads and glean all the awesome information about hitch racks!

WarriorPrncs

09-02-2005, 01:13 PM

Welcome to the board ggetem and warrior! as always I get such a kick outta everyones most memorable stories!
warrior: I'm allergic to something in the PI shorts - probably the antibacterial they use or something, I wore a pair 1 time and Holy Smokes was I a hurting baby! so my heart goes out to you and your PI experience!

Thanks, CorsairMac :)

Did you get red and raw too? :eek: I wonder if mine was an allergic reaction since I never thought of that. I actually wrote to PI and told them what happened and they wrote back and said if you put them in the dryer you will notice a big improvement. :confused: I'm not sure what that will do especially if it is an allergic reaction. I think I'll just pass :p and check out the Sugoi's Flex Shorts as Trehawk suggested in another thread and several others in my bike club. :)

CorsairMac

09-02-2005, 01:46 PM

actually I wash all my shorts before I wear them for the first time. I have such sensitive chemical allergies I figure wash-and-be-safe-rather-than-wear-and-hope-to-luck. :o When I talked to PI they told me it couldn't possibly be their shorts that it had to be something else. To make a short story long (too late) between my LBS and PI I got the shorts returned and used the credit to buy a different brand. I was just so disappointed by my reception from their cust service dept I sent an email and the reponse I got to that?.....sorry about the problems but that I probably just misunderstood what the guy was trying to say?? *shaking head*...........which part of "it couldn't possibly be our shorts" did I seem to misunderstand? Anyway, yes that was exactly my reaction: very raw, very red, swollen, itchy, very uncomfortable for several days until the reaction calmed down. and it happened the first time I wore them.

WarriorPrncs

09-02-2005, 02:21 PM

I hear you! I am pretty sensitive to everything and need to use non-scented detergents, etc. so I always wash everything before I wear it. The tags in clothing even irritate my skin so I cut them out. :o

I usually don't throw my bike clothes in the dryer just hang them dry. I wasn't impressed with PI's customer service either. Oh well, I'll try taking them back to my LBS and exchange them for something else. :p

Clare

09-05-2005, 01:29 PM

Real name: Cathy
Where do you live? San Luis Obispo, California

Explanation of your handle: Its my middle name.

Explanation of your avatar: Don't have one yet...just a newbie.

Age (general or specific) 49 on Sept. 11th!

Occupation: Student...finally decided what I wanted to be when I grew up. I'm going to Cal Poly, and in a couple of years I should have a degree in Natural Resource Management.

Favorite bike: The new Specialized WSD carbon bike coming out this fall.

What's in your stable? Specialized Sequoia Elite and Trek8000.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 30 going down a hill on Highway 1. (There is a traffic speed indicator that picks up bike speeds, too.)

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have any...yet.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I told my mom I got my pants wet from water in the gutter, when actually I got them wet in the creek where I was forbidden to go.

Most memorable moment on my bike: I was riding one of my favorite rides in the opposite direction...it was a beautiful day...the sky was a deep blue...it was springtime so the countryside was littered with color....and I was feeling joyful and happy. Just happy to be out riding my bike, tooling along...and out in front of me flys this little bird all in blue. It sits on a wire and chirps...and I think to myself..."hey, a bluebird of happiness!"

Most fun ever had on a bike? Taking a huge Mountain bike adventure over Cuesta Ridge to Lopez. It was really hard. We must of crossed 25 creeks! Can't do it again though, cuz they restricted bikes from that trail.

t'kay

09-06-2005, 09:46 AM

Real name: Natalie Kay
Where do you live? Portland, Oregon..soon to be Reno, NV (Jan '06)

Explanation of your handle: I have several nicknames..the evolution breakdown goes like this. Natalie Kay to Natty Kay to T'kay

Explanation of your avatar: I really want to be a pirate.

Age (general or specific) 21

Occupation: Barista/Student/Nanny/looking for yet another job :eek:

Favorite bike: Bikes I lust after..Fuel Ex7, and Electra Custom Cruiser..lime green, but that's my favorite "I just want to look pretty riding" bike

What's in your stable? I don't own my own bike :( Stolen..then the new one was given away so i just ride my dads Giant something or 'nother, with this huge gel seat that hurts my booty but I can't change it cause it's his.

Fastest speed on a road bike? I have no idea..25 mph maybe, cruising down Mount Spokane

Another picture of yourself or your ride? hmm, I'll go get some glamour shots :rolleyes:

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I totally understand that you need your own space. (What I was actually thinking was in what way I should remove his testicles.)

Most memorable moment on my bike: Riding on an old cruiser in the rain at midnight the night before my best friend moved away. Then having the bike with the racks break and have to carry two 6packs home in my arms and almost breaking my neck trying to stop on the slick roads, but somehow keeping all the bottles intact. :D

Most fun ever had on a bike? Last week I took three kids that I watch(Ages 5,6 and 10) on their first ever trail ride, all three of them crashed but got up and kept going. I was pretty proud of them.

CorsairMac

09-06-2005, 02:15 PM

welcome to the board Clare & T'Kay! I always wanted to be a pirate too well actually I wanted to be a buccaneer - more romantic, less violence! (yarite like who am I kidding??!!)

and Clare I loved your "finally decided what I wanted to be in life". I have too but I can't find any pro cycling teams that want a 47 yr-old turtle on their team so I'll just keep playing pretend! LOL

kestrel

09-06-2005, 11:18 PM

Real name: Alexandra, but most people just call me Alex

Where do you live? South Bay (Sunnyvale, CA)

Explanation of your handle: I had an avatar named Kestrel..

Explanation of your avatar: That's a longer story..

Age (general or specific): 36

Occupation: Datacenter Techie at a Fruity Company

Favorite bike: The one that I'm riding, which is usually a 2004 Lemond Zurich

What's in your stable? 2004 Lemond Zurich, 2002(?) Fuji Thrill-SE, 1988 Honda Hawk GT (NT650) <- getting adopted by a friend's friend

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Tandem: 54mph, Carson Valley, NV, this past spring; Road: 34mph, one of the Skyline Loops, Bay Area, CA, this summer

Another picture of yourself or your ride? http://osa.unixfolk.com/hikers/2005.07.16_CoastRide/half-cimg0103.jpg

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: That I was going to be good enough to whup my boyfriend's tuckus at cycling. This may never be true, but I'm working on it.

Most memorable moment on my bike: I had chosen to do the Loop in NV on the tandem. The plans was to fly Kingsbury Grade 207 into Carson Valley, ride north on 206, touch 395, and cycle back into Tahoe on 50, and back up Kingsbury Grade. I had not even gotten my own road bike then. We were riding with light shells and my boyfriend had just spent the morning snowboarding. It was all good until the fourth hour when we were cycling on 50 and the sun went down. The climbing went on forever and it was so cold. I kept refueling, but damn my lower lip started quivering and soon I was silently weeping all over the road. He stopped and whipped off his jacket and layered me like a puffy red popsicle (two red jackets!). It was like the sun came back out and the skies turned blue from the dreary grey that had been minutes before. In that moment of ephiphany, I fully grokked two things. If I lose heat, I lose willpower, so don't skimp on layers. And my boyfriend in his Sesame Street Bert and Ernie cycling jersey is the sexiest guy on the road.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Probably on Sunday, my most recent road bike ride where I've been much more confident and relaxed. Of course, I might have just ruined that on Monday by face planting my first time on a mountain bike trail. Ugh.

CorsairMac

09-07-2005, 10:04 AM

Welcome to the board Kestral. I haven't face planted on the MTB - Yet! Yup....I'm pretty sure there's gonna be a "yet" some day! Hope to see ya around!

Cari

09-08-2005, 06:28 PM

Ok, it's time to introduce myself, so here's my bit:

Real name: Carissa

Where do you live? San Juan, Puerto Rico

Explanation of your handle: Just my name...

Explanation of your avatar: Just my face :D

Age (general or specific): I'll be 29 soon.

Occupation: Recent med school dropout. Am currently venturing into distributing bike lights to local shops and riders. A friend lent me the coolest bike light I had ever seen and when I found out that nobody sells them here, I saw my opportunity and grabbed it by the horns. I'll refrain from plugging them on the board, but if you find yourself in need of a killer light... you know who to talk to. :rolleyes:

Favorite bike: I don't know the first thing about bike models but I'm trying to convince myself to order a custom steel or titanium frame from Independent Fabrication... I just need to get over the guilt, 'cause I've never spent more than a few hundred dollars on a bike. :eek: The thing is that all the bikes I've ever ridden fit too small even though even though they're supposed to be right for my height. So if I'm going to spend an arm and a leg for my first road bike, it better fit right!

What's in your stable? A Gary Fisher Tassajara and an old Trek 830 that I keep around to lend to friends.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? About 26 mph, 6 weeks or so ago, between Loiza and Piñones, on the beachside route I usually take for my long rides. I know, I'm a lightweight... just give me some time. ;)

Another picture of yourself or your ride? You can be sure that if I get that IF road bike I'll be showing it off like a grandma with a wallet full of baby pictures.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I have no idea...

Most memorable moment on my bike:
The first time I hit a car. I was riding along an avenue, returning from a 60 mile ride, my longest ever. The power was out and the traffic lights weren't working, and it had just begun to drizzle so the roads were super slick. I slowed as I approached a big intersection, all the cars were stopped and some signaled to me to go ahead, so I went.

Then some creep in an ugly orangey-red wannabe sports car shot into the intersection. I braked, began to skid and leaning towards the left, so I unclipped my left foot and dragged it on the ground like an anchor. It looked like I was gonna make it, too, until some part of my bike hit the car's front bumper.

I guess I flipped over 'cause the next thing I recall was lying face up on the steamy asphalt looking at the sky, and my riding buddy saying to me, "Partner, we're in an intersection, get yourself up off the road." I ran my hands around my helmet. I didn't feel any warm, sticky wet spots and everything seemed to be in its place so I let him pull me up off the ground.

There was an old lady who had been crossing the street in front of me who waved her umbrella angrily at the driver and yelled, "You saw her! Everybody saw her!" Except for her, all the cars were stopped and several other persons who had been waiting to cross the street stood still, looking dumbfounded. As soon as I got out of the driver's way, he crossed the intersection and sped off, and everything seemed to move again. My riding partner says he caught a glance of a tarty-looking woman in the passenger seat pretending to file her nails as if nothing had happened.

I don't know how exactly I flipped over and hit the ground without breaking anything, but I thank God that I didn't hurt myself. All I have are two tiny souvenir scars from where I scraped myself on the pavement, one each on my right knee and elbow.

Most fun ever had on a bike?
Last Saturday morning's ride. It's a long, winding rural road with rolling hills and a canopy of trees that keeps the air cool and provides welcome protection from the sizzle of the tropical sun. I used to ride there about once a week but never alone. My morning riding partner has been flakey lately so last weekend I finally went by myself. It was so awesome, I felt like that road was mine. I love hills and curves so it was a lot of fun and very empowering. The coolest part was that it so much easier than ever before. Part of what I love about riding is that even though I'm not as good as I'd like to be, I can always count on the fact that as long as I keep working at it, I will keep getting better.

CorsairMac

09-09-2005, 08:53 AM

Welcome to the board Cari! Ya'll think you're having fun Now on your bike - wait til you get one that fits you like a glove.....pretty soon those roads just aren't gonna be long enough! Owwwwwwwwwieeeeeeee on the car accident....you were very lucky my friend! and Puerto Rico??......do ya'll do organized rides there?.....do we need to plan a TE trip to PR to go for a ride?? ;)

NorCalGal

09-09-2005, 08:56 AM

Real name: Karen

Where do you live? Orland, California.

Explanation of your handle: I'm in Northern California. Moved here from the beaches of Ventura in Southern California about 12 years ago and went through about a year of culture shock...but have come to appreciate cowboy butts in Wranglers.

Explanation of your avatar: What's an avatar? Is that some sort of birthmark? Is it something off Star Wars? Me confused. :) Actually, I just haven't found one yet.

Age (general or specific) A proud 46 on November 14, but I tell people I'm seven and holding.

Occupation: Business owner. My husband and I design cargo management accessories for the automotive/recreation industry, so if you have any ideas for bike bags that would carry all of your gear in your car/SUV/truck, let me know! I also do some personal chef work on the side, and have 42 days of grad school left (but who's counting?), getting my masters degree in leadership.

Favorite bike: Anything that makes me look thin. :p Too new to this stuff to really know. So I guess my favorite is the one I ride right now, a Trek.

What's in your stable? Aforementioned Trek road bike, also the Trek mtb that I started on, and gosh, I just bought a Trek beach cruiser to ride down our country lane to the mailbox and to the produce stand. You'd think I owned stock in Trek.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 25.6 miles per hour, being chased by a couple of really fast dogs on a country road about a year ago.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? No pictures, thank you. Not until I find the bike that makes me look thin. :D :D :D

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: That it wan't me who shot the BB through the sliding glass window. I was 8. I blamed it on my brother and our mom believed me for awhile.

Most memorable moment on my bike: It wasn't finishing a century, it wasn't leading a pace line, it was when I decided to practice a track stand in my gravel driveway at the end of a ride and I forgot to click out of my pedals. Lots of blood, but sadly the thing that went through my mind as I fell was that I could break something. It's not that I'm old or anything...but how depressing to begin thinking like that!

Most fun ever had on a bike? A friend convinced me to ride the 17-mile drive with him at Pebble Beach. I wasn't a very good rider and I didn't realize how hilly it was, but I finished it and it felt great!

CorsairMac

09-09-2005, 10:08 AM

Welcome to the board NorCal. Yeah - tell me about the owning stock in Trek...and the razzlefrazzle(*&E(&(G& wouldn't even let me win one of them thar LiveStrong bikes during the TdF scratch off game. All I got was a lousy water bottle! :D :D Hope to hear more from you and how fun is that to already find someone to ride with!!

natheless

09-09-2005, 10:33 AM

Getting to Know You!

Real name: Julia
Where do you live? Providence, RI

Explanation of your handle: It's an archaic version of nevertheless - I've used it many places. (I've always been a word geek.)

Explanation of your avatar: Currently, no avatar. I'm still quite new here. ;)

Age (general or specific) 34

Occupation: Educator/Administrator

Favorite bike: Not sure yet, I've had the same bike for ~20 years...

What's in your stable?
Road: Elderly Peugeot (mixte frame, touring bike, I think) 10 speed
Mountain: nada, for now.

Fastest speed on a road bike? 36, last weekend (downhill, definitely!)

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Not at the moment.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Just the ones I've told myself.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Riding in Ireland last year. I expect finishing my first century will also be pretty memorable ;)

Most fun ever had on a bike? Biking on Martha's Vineyard this summer.

CorsairMac

09-09-2005, 11:21 AM

welcome na!! Peugeot??....you got a Peugeot too?? Mines an Avoraiz - 1986 and he's a sweetie!! All steel, my first road bike in over ???? yrs. I rode that bike on my first 1/2, metric, and imperial (gosh I love that word) century. Hope to hear more from ya including the details of your first century!

JLD

09-10-2005, 03:33 AM

Howdy folks--by way of introduction:

Real name: Jill
Where do you live? Ottawa Ontario Canada
Age (general or specific) 51
Occupation: Nurse/artist
Favorite bike: my little Norco Monterey--not high end but rides just great!
Most memorable moment on my bike: I had massive emergency lung surgery done a little over 2 years ago--I am just plain damn LUCKY to be on the planet--so--getting back on the bike post op--was a true achievement!
Most fun ever had on a bike? I did a small road trip earlier this summer--about 160kms round trip--bicycle camping--and attended the Womens Voices Festival--It was TERRIFIC!

Trek420

09-10-2005, 07:13 AM

Hey JLD, welcome to the board. Corsair usually rolls up with the welcome wagon (or Bob trailer) must be out riding, or in sleeping. I'm attempting to fill her bike shoes. :)

JLD

09-10-2005, 11:41 AM

Thank you Trek! :) I look forward to going through the posts and becoming part of the site!

rn2binca

09-11-2005, 09:16 PM

Getting to Know You!

Real name: Tracy
Where do you live? Northern California

Explanation of your handle: I'm working hard to become a Registered Nurse.
Explanation of your avatar: Currently, no avatar. I'm still quite new here.

Age (general or specific) 34

Occupation: Nursing student, extern in a NICU

Favorite bike: looking for my first ever road bike

What's in your stable?
Road: none
Mountain: old 15+ yr old schwinn :)

Fastest speed on a road bike? don't know.. not too quick

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Not at the moment.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: what? me? tell a lie? heehee, never.

Most memorable moment on my bike: I have yet to have a fabulous moment on my bike, but I have to say riding with two toddlers in the trailer and my baby on the back of hubby's bike was quite fun. Whew, they all ride bikes themselves now.

SadieKate

09-12-2005, 08:10 AM

Welcome all you nurse and nurse-to-be's.

Tracy, where do you live? We have quite an active group across northern California. Ride planned for this weekend out of Davis --hope you can join us and maybe drag out some of the other new northern Calif riders who have joined recently (or not so recently).

CorsairMac

09-12-2005, 11:33 AM

welcome JLD and RN! Nice to meet ya both and RN we're just gonna have to get you that road bike my friend! Hope to hear more from both of you and yes RN - you live in a Very busy TE riding area! Have fun!

(thanks Trek...yuppers did my own hilly 1/2 hundred Sat! still trying to catch pedalwench! ;) )

rn2binca

09-12-2005, 12:30 PM

Thank you for all the hellos...

I live in Sacramento, so yes a Davis ride is quite possible, however I'll have to get myself going on my own for a bit before I'm comfortable riding with others. Except for a leisurely ride that isnt well organized :).

I'm heading out to look at more bikes, I really like the idea of the Giant OCRs but need to check fit and all that.

ttfn!
Tracy

alpinerabbit

09-12-2005, 12:46 PM

Real name: Susanne

Where do you live? Switzerland

Explanation of your handle: 's what we call someone who goes up mountains easily. Not what I can do currently, but I am from the alps :cool:

Explanation of your avatar: self-explanatory I hope

Age (general or specific) 32 going on 33

Occupation: Biologist working for a company that happens to manufacture EPO :eek:

Favorite bike: a Chopper LOL!

What's in your stable? A no-name MTB for riding in the city and a Look 281 carbon (brand new, could you tell?)

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 42 kph on first ride on a triathlon bike. borrowed, years ago. I'm working on it again.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? not yet... working on it.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Fine, how are you?

Most memorable moment on my bike: Running into a poor tourist in the rain (almost at walking speed, he was fine)... and being fined 100$ for running a stop sign by a campus cop in the States. Oh no. now I know. this is gonna be long:

There's this bike lane where I used to ride home and there's parking places right next to it. Rush hour drivers would slooooowly search for a free spot wile cutting me off on my lane, so I decided for some guerilla tactics: a hard pat on the roof. no damage, huge surprise effect. well did HE get angry. He followed me and I had to zip into a small alley where he wasn't allowed. Phew. Never been home that fast.

Most fun ever had on a bike? If I didn't have fun, I'da stopped a long time ago... but getting real dirty on the MTB was one. And pretending my bike is a horse and I'm Zorro as a kid.

snpdragn

09-12-2005, 06:24 PM

Hey guys, I'm brand new! New to all of this! So, I was copying and pasting the little survey thing that I see weaving throughout this thread and it's pretty sad... I can't answer any of the bike questions! I have no clue!

Real name: Alisha
Where do you live? Nesbit, Mississippi

Explanation of your handle: A band that I loved... a local band that never made it big. I changed a letter or two to make it unique, but that's where it started!

Explanation of your avatar: Um. I don't have one.

Age (general or specific) 25

Occupation: Broker's assistant

Favorite bike: I have no idea about anything about bikes. That's why I'm here!

What's in your stable? Again, my answer to this is just sad. None. Nothing.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? never had one... Nick won't let me play with his.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? nope.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I'm a terrible liar. I don't think I ever graduated from the lying about being sick during grade school.

Most memorable moment on my bike: um. nope.

Most fun ever had on a bike? again... nope.
__________________

Trek420

09-12-2005, 07:03 PM

welcome to the board snpdragen, we'll have you on a bike in no time and who's this Nick who won't let you play? welcome alpinerabit too!

snpdragn

09-13-2005, 05:36 AM

Nick's my boyfriend. and if it weren't for the mess the grease would make, I'm almost positive he'd sleep with his bike. ;) It's his new hobby, so he's embracing it wholeheartedly.
He's got me enthused, but is a little lax about answering questions about it - seems to be one of those boyfriend moments where they'd like you to join them, but don't want to have to explain anything! :)
and thanks for the welcome!

CorsairMac

09-13-2005, 11:22 AM

Welcome alpine: I noticed your tigerrabbit on another thread and Love it! I have a stuffed tigerrabbit someone made for me once!! Still brings a smile to my face!

Welcome Snp: eh so ya'll ain't got a bike yet?....wellllllllllll have YOU ever come to the right place. As for Nick not letting you play with his bike - go get one better, make sure it's fitted to you, and then just dust his butt into the ground! :D

RTP1031

09-13-2005, 03:37 PM

I'm also new to the boards. I've been training for road racing for about six months and just recently found a great coach. What a great site for info and inspiritation!

Real name: Rebecca

Where do you live? Southern California

Explanation of your handle: I was born in San Francisco (best town ever IMHO). Beachdog was my dear departed Shep-Lab mix Bear (best dog ever IMHO).

Explanation of your avatar: I can have an avatar.

Age (general or specific) 46

Occupation: Chef

Favorite bike: Only bike a Gary Fisher Nirvana "Gertrudis"

What's in your stable? She'll be jealous when my new Specialized Ruby comes in in a couple of weeks.

Fastest speed on a road bike? 48. where? downhill on a car-free canyon road. when? a couple of weeks ago. My first thought was that the computer was malfunctioning, then I slowed down very carefully...

Another picture of yourself or your ride? nothing I want to share yet

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Would that count a job-related lie :rolleyes:

Most memorable moment on my bike: being paced by an ostrich.

Most fun ever had on a bike? riding in the light rain on the San Ynez back roads. Any ride with my coach.

PartimeBiker

09-13-2005, 05:38 PM

Real name: Eme

Where do you live? Tulsa, OK

Explanation of your handle: It's pretty self explanatory, I'm cool like that ;)

Explanation of your avatar: I have a thing for tiny bikers?

Age (general or specific) 33

Occupation: College student

Favorite bike: Trek-something unless I sit on one I like better.

What's in your stable? We'll know on Friday when I get my new filly :)

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? I'm not that technical yet.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? One coming soon, I hope!

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Lance Armstrong thinks I'm the next Tour de France winner. Really.

Most memorable moment on my bike: A Saturday morning bike ride.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Everytime I get to ride it.
__________________

purepink

09-13-2005, 08:14 PM

Real name: Kathy
Where do you live? San Diego, CA

Explanation of your handle: I have a new "hot pink" bike. I look for all things pink when shopping for cycling gear. :o

Age (general or specific) 40 this year, I have arrived! Jan 12

Occupation: Escrow Branch Manager

Favorite bike: The brand new one I'm riding.

What's in your stable? Trek 2200

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 33 on hill repeats with bikerchick68

tatormc

09-14-2005, 05:35 AM

Real name: Eme

Where do you live? Tulsa, OK

Hey PartimeBiker! It's great to finally see another Okie on the board!

Adventure Girl

09-14-2005, 06:47 AM

I have a new "hot pink" bike. I look for all things pink when shopping for cycling gear.Have you seen these: http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=3889

CorsairMac

09-15-2005, 11:07 AM

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Lance Armstrong thinks I'm the next Tour de France winner. Really.

Welcome to the board Eme! ROFLMAO......thank you so very much for just making my day!! I gotta use that one some time myself!!

CorsairMac

09-15-2005, 11:11 AM

Occupation: Chef

Most memorable moment on my bike: being paced by an ostrich.

so can we ride to Your house for dinner?? ;)

and being paced by an ostrich??.......so...did ya win??? LOL

and welcome to the board! Have you see the racing threads?? several women here race and we love to hear about everyones races!

CorsairMac

09-15-2005, 11:13 AM

welcome to the board Pure - I see AG got ya the pink thread. and of Course we're gonna have to see a pix of your bike now. Got several "Pink Ladies" living here and they'll wanna drool over your pink stuff too!

RTP1031

09-15-2005, 01:43 PM

You bring the chilis, I'll make the margaritas.

so can we ride to Your house for dinner?? ;)

and being paced by an ostrich??.......so...did ya win??? LOL

and welcome to the board! Have you see the racing threads?? several women here race and we love to hear about everyones races!

Spinchick

09-15-2005, 05:05 PM

Real name: Robin

Where do you live? middle Tennessee - in the country

Explanation of your handle: Used to teach spin classes - gym members took to calling me Spinchick

Explanation of your avatar: Just something I thought was classy and bike related

Age (general or specific) 19 for 21 years now

Occupation: mom, organic farmer, horse trainer, spin instructor

Favorite bike: I want a Waterford

What's in your stable? Too many to list - I collect vintage bikes as projects. My road bike is a Univega Modo Vincere

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 38 mph - going down a big hill

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I wish I did!

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I don't tell lies. (That was it!)

Most memorable moment on my bike: Riding my road bike through a pasture, came across a llama who proceeded to chase me. Hit a sand pit and did an endo. Mr. llama stood over me looking a bit confused.

Most fun ever had on a bike? See above.

seagrape

09-16-2005, 05:27 AM

I'm also new here... Just starting out after doing other sports.

Real name: Gus (nickname:) )

Where do you live? South Florida

Explanation of your handle: I live near (and love) the sea.
Explanation of your avatar: I haven't uploaded one yet. I'm working on it.

Age (general or specific) 33 3/4
Occupation: Grad. student and freelance writer

Favorite bike: I'm waiting for my first road bike to be delivered on Monday... I'm sure that that will be it! Until then, I'm on my MTB.

What's in your stable? A cheap and cheerful Diamondback MTB and- believe it or not- an old BSA girl's MTB (I'm a tiny tot, what can I say?).

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? I'll let you know, when I find out!

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Don't have any...

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I can't lie- I always burst out laughing, which is probably a good thing, because it keeps me out of a lot of trouble.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Riding through London and Hampstead Heath, trying to outchase a thunderstorm, five years ago. It was on that BSA, which I had just bought.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Everyday that I come home safely.
__________________

bouncybouncy

09-16-2005, 05:39 AM

bouncybouncy

09-16-2005, 05:41 AM

welcome seagrape!!! Where in SoFla are you? what parks do you ride? what roads are you planning on riding? there are a couple of other SoFla gals here...i have not met them but have exchanged posts...i am soon to be outta here so my riding is minimal with the move and all but we will have to keep an eye out for each other...

Welcome too ms spinchick...that llama story gave me a chuckle!!! I want to ride with the crazy animals tooo!!! The turtles around here just don't cut it (but at least i feel like i am fast :D )

CorsairMac

09-16-2005, 10:53 AM

Favorite bike: I want a Waterford

What's in your stable? Too many to list - I collect vintage bikes as projects. My road bike is a Univega Modo Vincere

Me want a Waterford too.

and right now my road bikes are a 1986 Peugeot Avoraiz and a 1989 Trek 1100. There's something to be said about those old bikes eh??

WElcome to the board!!

CorsairMac

09-16-2005, 10:55 AM

WElcome to the board seagrape - so ya'll got a new road bike coming??...and ya didn't tell us what it was?? Shame on you! :p We'll wanna hear all about your inaugeral ride on that sweet baby!

Spinchick

09-16-2005, 11:00 AM

Thanks Bouncy and Corsair.

Corsair, Wow, cool old bikes you have! My current project is turning my old road bike ('84 Motobecane Super Mirage) into a fixie. Love that bike!

CorsairMac

09-16-2005, 11:30 AM

*nods head* yup I've got 2 more bikes waiting for me up in CO that I gotta go get and I'm thinking - depending on what they are - I might convert one of them to a fixie for winter riding.

OH...and you'll Love this one: riding with a friend Sat, her on a custom Rod bike, me on the vintage Trek. Parked bikes for some coffee, guy comes in the shop and asks if those bikes are ours? Says he's not familiar with the Rodriguez to which my friend replies "it's a custom frame". He says "oh - well I was really looking at the Trek........."! ROFLMAO

Spinchick

09-16-2005, 03:13 PM

[QUOTE=CorsairMacSays he's not familiar with the Rodriguez to which my friend replies "it's a custom frame". He says "oh - well I was really looking at the Trek........."! ROFLMAO[/QUOTE]

Vintage bikes - ya just can't beat 'em. I actually have a garage full - in various stages of refurbishment:

'58 Huffy (old, old, old English-style touring bike) - 3 speed
'77 Schwinn Racer - 3 speed
'79 Ross Eurotour - 5 speed (I fixed this up to be my beach bike when we were still living in Jersey)
'84 Motobecane Super Mirage - 12 speed
'85 Trek 1100 - 12 speed
'96 BMW Mountain bike (the bike they gave the '96 Olympic cyclists to tool around on at Olympic Village in Atlanta)

runner2

09-16-2005, 04:57 PM

Welcome to the board Spinchick, I will like to visit your garage very much, are they all still working without training wheels? :rolleyes:

seagrape

09-18-2005, 10:12 AM

Hey everyone...

Thanks for the welcome! I generally haul my lard butt around Hallandale... I see tonnes of cyclists around- most look at me and snicker, methinks! That's ok- once I get going and get some training under my belt, I'll leave them in the dust.... :p

I didn't want to mention my bike 'cos, well, it's not exactly high end. It's a Motobecane Mirage Sport- but hey, it's my first and I hope to get a lot of use out of it... Who am I kidding- I can't wait!

Rakekay

09-18-2005, 05:47 PM

Real name: Kathleen
Where do you live? Vienna, VA (outside Washington, D.C.)

Explanation of your handle: It's a combination of my last name and my husband's and also on my license plate.

Explanation of your avatar: No avatar. I barely know what one is let alone where to get one.

Age (general or specific) 42

Occupation: Magazine editor/consultant

Favorite bike: Well, I only have one, so I guess that's my favorite!

What's in your stable?
Road: Specialized Sequoia, which I bought myself for my 42nd birthday.

Fastest speed on a road bike? about 25 mph (downhill)

Another picture of yourself or your ride? You've GOT to be joking

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I try to erase all past lies from my mind so I can convince myself I don't lie. (Guess that's my biggest lie: That I don't.

Most memorable moment on my bike: The first time I took a "long" ride (although that one doesn't seem so long to me anymore) and got to the beginning of the W&OD trail. "I rode my bike to Shirlington!" I kept saying out loud, shocked that I'd gone so far. (OK, so it was only 12 miles, but it was much farther than I would have thought I could have gone just a few short weeks before that, AND, I was only halfway done.) I'm currently in training for a century (OK, probably ridiculous to do a century after only biking for eight weeks, but what can I say? I needed a goal. I'm up to 60 miles and actually am beginning to think I might be able to actually complete the century.)

Most fun ever had on a bike? Every time I ride down one particular hill on the W&OD trail. I haven't been able to ride down it a single time without shouting out "WHEEEEE!"

Spinchick

09-19-2005, 09:34 AM

Welcome, Rakekay!

If you are up to 60 miles, you can definetely do a century. You don't need to have ridden 100 miles to be able to ride 100 miles. Make sense? :D Seriously, riding in a big group like that with sag support and well-stocked rest stops, you can do the 100 miles.

Have fun!

AllezGirl

09-22-2005, 12:18 PM

HipGnosis6

09-24-2005, 07:29 PM

Real name: Lori
Where do you live? Seattle, WA

Explanation of your handle: It means "cool name" and is a terrible pun that I borrowed from the artist complex that created the Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin album sleeves.

Explanation of your avatar: I've been running a Superman logo avatar for ages - ever since I got shanghai'ed into buying a Superman visor at a previous job.

Age (general or specific) Just turned 30.

Occupation: Rock star. Oh wait, that's only in my head. I work in the production department for a local area garment manufacturer that specializes in manskirts. four out of 15 employees ride bikes to work at least three days a week!

Favorite bike: I haven't ridden a ton of bikes, but I really like the looks of the bikes built by Davidson. They're local, and I know a tremendously talented chick wrench that I'd eventually like to have build up a bike from a Davidson frame.

What's in your stable? Two months ago I brought home a 2006 Specialized Cirrus. I haven't ridden significantly in over ten years - but I still have the Sterling CitySport that I bought for myself in '86. It's too small for me to actually ride but I can't bear to part with it.

Fastest speed on a road bike? I'm only just beginning to get comfortable on my bike - and descents scare the pants off of me.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have one yet.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "I promise I won't laugh"

Most memorable moment on my bike: Finally making it all the way up the hill home. It's a whopper.

Most fun ever had on a bike? I went out to ride the Magnolia Scenic Loop with the new guy at work and missed a turn. We wound up on a dead end - and carried our bikes up a really really narrow, steep concrete staircase leading up the bluff. It put us out right where we needed to be, and the detour was actually very lovely. We both had a great time and don't regret the navigation error at all.

DirtDiva

09-25-2005, 02:55 AM

If only everyone worked somewhere where over a quater of the employees biked to work!

Insomnicole

09-26-2005, 09:38 AM

Real name: Nicole
Where do you live? Northern Virginia.

Explanation of your handle: I'm Nicole, and I tend to be a bit of an insomniac. There you have it.

Explanation of your (lack of) avatar: Haven't picked one yet.

Age: 36, closing in on 37.

Occupation: I work on our company's website.

Favorite bike: Don't have one yet -- but I've got a sore neck from swiveling my head around to look at other people's bikes when I'm on the way to work.

What's in your stable? A Giant Sedona DX hybrid; just bought it a few weeks ago. It's my first bike since I was about eight.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have one yet. My husband is a photography nut, so I've no doubt there will be one soon.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "No, Mom, I didn't put that piece of bread in Dad's eight-track tape player." (I was five and I thought it was an EZ-Bake oven, okay?)

Most memorable moment on my bike: I've only been riding a few weeks, but right now that would have to be the moment when I stopped being shaky and nervous and everything started coming together and I started truly having fun.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Pretty much every time I go out on my bike with my husband and try to push myself to do more than I did the last ride. I got to see a family of deer crossing the trail yesterday; that was cool.

Elixia

09-26-2005, 10:39 AM

Real name: Elizabeth, but I go by Eli.

Where do you live? Currently, Frederick Maryland

Explanation of your handle: single mom, live for travel and adventure

Explanation of your avatar (An embodiment, as of a quality or concept; an archetype): creative energetic activist with passion for compassion

Age (general or specific) Taurus 26

Occupation: Mother, Muse, and Naturalist

Favorite bike: The only one I’ve got :)

What's in your stable? Trek 7100 nice dry green in color

Fastest speed on a road bike? Where? When? Not a clue

another picture of yourself or your ride? I am notorious for befriending people who take heaps of pictures, because I never take them myself.

Most memorable moment on my bike: When I was fifteen my Mom and I did a trip called Freewheel where we biked from a city in northern Texas thru Oklahoma to a city in southern Kansas; Tornado season’s a B*tch!!

Most fun I've ever had on my bike: Every day on the bike is wonderful because I am alive to enjoy my health!

Pedal Wench

09-26-2005, 12:46 PM

Realized that so much has changed since this original post! Here's an update!

Real name: Leslie

Where do you live? Atlanta, GA

Explanation of your handle: That's how I answer the phone in my studio. Changed from Audio A to Pedal Wench, since it's much cuter!

Explanation of your avatar: avatar??....you mean I could have an avatar??

Age (general or specific) 40-something!

Occupation: Recording engineer and writer

Favorite bike: I'm lusting after a carbon Bianchi with Campy parts, but I ride Cannondale Well, I bought the carbon Bianchi with Campy parts! But, I still ride my Cannondale on occasion

What's in your stable? Cannondale R1000 Feminine (Actually have two of them!) a Cannondale Jekyll 400 WSD, and old Raleigh and Schwinn hybridsAdded the Bianchi XL Carbon with Record

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 28 on a short but steep decent (obviously!) Just topped out at 39 mph, but could have gone faster if the gusty crosswinds weren't knocking me around

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have very many pixs of myself - I hate having my pix taken (me too!)

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I've never told a lie ;)

Most memorable moment on my bike: The first ride over a gorgeous causeway in Miami with a great view of the ocean. Toss up between completing Ride The Rockies and surviving the 6Gap century - it wasn't pretty, but I didn't finish dead last, as predicted!

Most fun ever had on a bike? Every single time I ride...

Jo-n-NY

10-05-2005, 10:41 AM

Hi RaKeKay,

You can definately do it! I rode my first century just 3 weeks after I got a road bike. Until that day, the furthest I had ridden was 50 miles. But after being coaxed by some club members, I decided to go for it. Since you are already up to 60 miles, you should be physically ready, so it's really about being mentally prepared. Our ride was across 3 states (PA to NYC), so after we left PA and entered NJ (about 4 miles into the ride) I just said to myself "One state down, only two to go". I also never thought about how many miles I had to go...just what I had already done, and after mile 53, every mile past that was the furthest distance I had gone, and that was pretty exciting!

Over all it was a great experience and I can't wait to do it again in a couple of weeks (the Pumpkin Patch Pedal in NJ, anyone else going?)

As for hills, just psych yourself up for climbs 3 times bigger than they really are, so when you get to the top you can say...gee, I'm here already!?! That wasn't so bad!

i cannot believe i did not read this earlier. the pumkin patch pedal is what my husband, brother,etc just rode. Upon your return if you saw two people sitting under a tree at the rode side upon coming back into the park that was me and my daughter who just rode for 20 miles. my husband and others rode the 62. i was sitting with my fractured shlder.

until my injury the plan was to ride the century, but my husband and brother decided to go for just the fifty as they did not have many riding miles under their belt, but ended up rideing the 62 or 63, whatever it was. what time did you start and how long did it take you. my husband kept thinking the timing of a century would have taken too long.

joann

littleblue

10-11-2005, 05:07 PM

Real name: Kimberly (Kim) Baker

Where do you live? Holland, Michigan

Explanation of your handle: (small) Specialized Roubaix (blue) aluminum with carbon forks and seat post

Explanation of your avatar (An embodiment, as of a quality or concept; an archetype): Hopeful dreamer!

Age (general or specific) 38 on 9/21

Occupation: Mom (four kids, all girls), wife, medical transcriptionist.

Favorite bike: My "littleblue", of course.

What's in your stable? 2005 Specialized Roubaix

Fastest speed on a road bike? Where? 28-30 mph downhill in Lowell, MI

another picture of yourself or your ride? I am notorious for befriending people who take heaps of pictures, because I never take them myself. No pics yet.

Most memorable moment on my bike: The day the duck on the side of the road went bananas after I said "hello, handsome" to it and honked and quacked at me as if to say "thank you, I know". Also, the day I beat my fastest speed by 1 mph average. Sounds like nothing, but believe me, I thought I was gonna die! :D

Most fun I've ever had on my bike: Every Saturday ride my hubby and I take together is the most fun. He's the most patient "coach"! Also, we live in a very beautiful area, so every ride is fabulous.

abuelitodimetu

10-11-2005, 08:02 PM

I have posted in cognito 3 times and I feel like a peepin'-tom by now. I better introduce myself.

Real name: Susanna F.

Where do you live? Chico, CA

Explanation of your handle: Growing up in Argentina there was a song from a cartoon called "Heidi" that went "Abuelito dime tu, por que....?" It is a song about a girl that asked her grandpa ("abuelito") about the "whys" (por que) of many things. It is not suppossed to be cutesie, since the cartoon sucked (a major tear-jerker).

Explanation of your avatar: it captures my miraculous finish at the LOP triathlon. No, I did not break a speed record. I did not train for two months before the race and during that time, I stuffed myself through the Balcans.

Age (general or specific) 24

Occupation: GRE slave, soon to be PhD grad-student at some East coast University. Reading TE forum keeps me sane when I am trying to figure out why sock is to tree like cat is to dishwasher (or better yet, when I have to to practice writting on asinine topics such as "People should have heroes")

Favorite bike: My Tomasso Capri because is faster than my cruiser

What's in your stable? Tomasso Capri, Micari Cruiser

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? high 40's at the LOP triathlon down the hills.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I am so fast, no camera can catch me... :D

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: please see reply above.

Most memorable moment on my bike: the ride at Wildflower. So hard, yet so beautiful.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Up honey run road here in Chico, a super steep 3 mile climb.
__________________

kiwi girl

10-12-2005, 12:32 PM

Real name: Sonya

Where do you live? Christchurch, New Zealand

Explanation of your handle: None needed I hope

Explanation of your avatar: its a picture of my road bike (well not my exact bike but you know what I mean)

Age (general or specific) thirty mumble

Occupation: policy adviser

Favorite bike: I'm lusting after the high end wsd Treks

What's in your stable? EMC2 Fem Equip 5, Marin Palisades Trail and Marin Pioneer Trail (fitted out for commuting and errands with slicks, rear rack etc). They are kept company by my partners Marin Hawk Hill and Kona Kula Dulux (we never use the car - too much hassle since we'd have to take all the bikes out of the garage first to get it out).

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 45km going down to Sumner
Another picture of yourself or your ride? don't have one

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: ummmmmmm

Most memorable moment on my bike: crossing the finish line after around Taupo

Most fun ever had on a bike? riding thorugh the forest bits of my local mountain bike trail (Bottle Lake) on an early morning ride when there was nobody else there

Zub_Zub

10-12-2005, 11:58 PM

Real name: Sonya

Where do you live? Christchurch, New Zealand

Most memorable moment on my bike: crossing the finish line after around Taupo

Oh cool another Kiwi. I did round taupo last year. I had a time of around 7.48 What time did you get?

CorsairMac

10-13-2005, 11:22 AM

Welcome to the board blue, abuel, & kiwi.

blue: I saw your post on the Specialized Ruby - still hoping for pixs! ;)

Abuel: just so long as the sock doesn't become the tree and the cat doesn't end up In the dishwasher, I'll think you'll do just fine!

Kiwi: nice to see another Kiwi on board - one of the countries I'm gonna get to yet darn it. Just as soon as I find me that rich man that wants a kept woman to help him spend his money! :D

kiwi girl

10-13-2005, 12:44 PM

Oh cool another Kiwi. I did round taupo last year. I had a time of around 7.48 What time did you get?

You know I can't remember - (it was 1999). I think I still have the results book at home - I'll have to check

Trekhawk

10-13-2005, 01:29 PM

Kiwi: nice to see another Kiwi on board - one of the countries I'm gonna get to yet darn it. Just as soon as I find me that rich man that wants a kept woman to help him spend his money! :D

Or find a Kiwi on holiday and snag him. Then you can spend your cycling year split between summers in each hemisphere.
:D (NZ men yummy). :D

CorsairMac

10-13-2005, 02:21 PM

Or find a Kiwi on holiday and snag him. Then you can spend your cycling year split between summers in each hemisphere.
:D (NZ men yummy). :D

I LIKE the way you think ma'am!!

DirtDiva

10-13-2005, 03:48 PM

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 45km going down to Sumner

Most fun ever had on a bike? riding thorugh the forest bits of my local mountain bike trail (Bottle Lake) on an early morning ride when there was nobody else there
It's quite novel reading this stuff and actually knowing what/where someone's talking about. I love that first view of the sea you get when you go clockwise around the short loop at Bottle Lake. Sheesh, I'm gonna make myself homesick if I'm not careful... :rolleyes:

margo49

10-15-2005, 01:00 PM

Real name: Margaret

Where I live: Israel (the original one in the mideast)

Explanation of name: A boss used to call me Margo and I liked it and him so I sometimes use it on-line. It was/is taken so I added the 49 because I am

Age: see above

Occupation: kibbutz-nik. Cheesemaker till near death by squashing :eek: [warning to women: men are capable of unintentionally putting a tractor into reverse at any given moment even if someone is standing there and with a wall at her back and no possible escape] But you can't keep *this kiwi* down 4 long and now
I have a great job in the Test Kitchen/lab of our dates products factory

Bike: Trek 820

Memorable Moment: London-to-Brighton ride 1982

margo49

10-16-2005, 01:04 PM

Biggest of all: "It doesn't hurt"

2nd biggest: "It doesn't hurt much"
3rd biggest: "It hardly hurts at all now"

You see a pattern here???

CorsairMac

10-16-2005, 07:24 PM

ROFL Margo! Welcome to the board. I'm sorry to hear about your accident but your sense of humour did make me smile!

Nice to meet ya and hope to see more of ya!

mtbmargie

10-18-2005, 12:58 PM

Real name: Margie

Where do you live? Odenton MD, Between Baltimore and Washington DC

Explanation of your handle: margie loving mountain biking :)

Explanation of your avatar (An embodiment, as of a quality or concept; an archetype): still looking for one

Age (general or specific) 24 Leo

Occupation: Industrial Engineer

Favorite bike: my new one!

What's in your stable? Trek Fuel EX7 WSD (aka Roxy); 12 yr old rigid Diamondback

Fastest speed on a road bike? Where? When? I've never ridden a road bike

another picture of yourself or your ride? umm.. don't know how to put one in here.

Most fun I've ever had on my bike: So far, everyday I ride it!

CorsairMac

10-18-2005, 01:43 PM

Welcome to the board Margie! I saw another one of your posts but wasn't sure if anyone had "directed" you over here yet. Since I was out of the country (gosh I just Love saying that....sounds so jet-setting doesn't it?! LOL) I didn't wanna repeat it and appear pushy!
Congrats on your new bike - ain't new bikes fun!! Who Knows, maybe some day I'll get a new bike too - oh wait....that's right I already have one, or two!! :D

Hope to hear more from ya!

TexasMermaid

10-18-2005, 01:57 PM

Real name: Jennifer

Where do you live? Where the West Begins...the Ft. Worth side of DFW, TX

Explanation of your handle: Before there was cycling, there was SCUBA. :)

Explanation of your (lack of) avatar: Avatar? We don't need no steeenking avatars! Oh wait, I DO need one! Let's see what I can dig up before I post again...

Age: 36, for a wee bit longer.

Occupation: Software Upgrade Lab manager. Too exciting, I tell you!

Favorite bike: The only one I have, but soon to be replaced if I make up my mind on what to buy.

What's in your stable? Schwinn Peloton, 4cm too big for me, but it got me started so I will be forever in its debt.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 25.5mph on a straightaway sprint.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Hope to have one soon!

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Never have had much patience or tolerance for lying with myself or others. It's just a lot easier to tell the truth. Less to remember, and as the years roll by - that's important!

Most memorable moment on my bike: I've only been riding since July 2005 so every time I do something I didn't know I could do, such as completing 39.4 miles a few weeks ago, is a thrill for me. (You better believe that .4 is VERY important.) :D

Most fun ever had on a bike? Pretty much every Saturday when we can do longer rides. This past Saturday I saw an emu on a golf course! Now that's just weird. I think the emu was doing better than most of the folks out on the course! :p

Trekhawk

10-18-2005, 04:20 PM

Most fun ever had on a bike? Pretty much every Saturday when we can do longer rides. This past Saturday I saw an emu on a golf course! Now that's just weird. I think the emu was doing better than most of the folks out on the course! :p

TexasMermaid - Hi- do you think the Emu was on holidays. :D

Trek-thinking you guys are not making emu pies out here I hope-hawk :D

CorsairMac

10-19-2005, 08:21 AM

Welcome to the board Tex! Very cute post and you better betcha that .4 miles is important - just wait til you try your first century - Anything over 100 counts!! lolol

and I gotta ask - was the Emu playing through or was it stuck in a sandtrap? ;)

TexasMermaid

10-19-2005, 12:50 PM

Trekhawk - no emu pies here! :D Those funny birds are much more fun to watch. There are tons of ostrich, emu, and rhea farms around but I never have seen a bird loose on the course like that.

Welcome to the board Tex! Very cute post and you better betcha that .4 miles is important - just wait til you try your first century - Anything over 100 counts!! lolol
CM - Century?!? :eek: Seems miles away from today. I know I will be able to do it, but don't you think a nice shiny new ride would help me get there? ;) Hey Santa, been a really good girl this year... um, sort of!

and I gotta ask - was the Emu playing through or was it stuck in a sandtrap? ;)
The emu only had his head stuck in the sandtrap. Mostly in denial over his score! Golf is way too frustrating, better to fly past the duffers at 18 mph, I say. :p

wavedancer

10-19-2005, 05:46 PM

Real name: Linda
Where do you live? Sandwich, Massachusetts
Explanation of your handle: My other passion is seakayaking. I love dancing on the water...and on the bike.
Explanation of your avatar: Me at the start of my first charity ride.
Age 56

Occupation: Nurse Practitioner

Favorite bike: My purple fade Cannondale

What's in your stable? Cannondale R800 WSD, Fisher Big Sur GS
Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 34mph down a short steep hill on Cape Cod (yes, we have hills!)

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Have to get the BF to take one some day.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told:That question reminds me of the game "truth or dare" that we used to play at slumber parties (now called sleep-overs) :o

Most memorable moment on my bike: Heading out on the start of The Last Gasp ride this past weekend with the soulful sound of a bagpiper on the edge of the canal.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Flying down the canal with a 30-knot wind at my back. Wheeee :D
__________________

Veronica

10-19-2005, 07:16 PM

Real name: Veronica
Where do you live? Antioch, CA

Explanation of your handle: Duh?!?

Explanation of your avatar: It's my dog Greta. She died a year ago October and I just haven't had the heart to change it. I really like Irulan's but haven't been able to make one half as good. :p

Age (general or specific) 38 on Dec 17th!

Occupation: 5th grade teacher

Favorite bike: My Rambouillet

What's in your stable? a Rivendell Rambouillet - better known as Fluffy, a Specialized Stumpjumper Comp, a Santana Arriva tandem, and a 12 year old Rockhopper

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 59 on a 7% grade on the back of the tandem WHEEEEE! I generallly hit the mid 30s on descents I know well. I always stay in my own lane - unlike some cars I've followed. :mad:

Another picture of yourself or your ride? If you're really interested there are a bunch on our website

TandemHearts (http://www.tandemhearts.com/)

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I 'm a lousy liar.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Crashing my Stumpjumper on a rainy day going off the sidewalk in front of my house while wearing my slippers and no helmet. My hand still hasn't fully recovered. The bike is fine.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Probably chasing down a roadie while riding the tandem on the Ironman route in Hawaii.

Veronica

This was fun to read - to see what has changed.

Now my avatar is from a ride up Diablo. Thom had the camera mounted on his fork and pointed backwards.

Fastest speed ever is still on the tandem. But coming down Diablo this past weekend I got to just over 42 mph on Fluffy.

Most memorable moment - 3 crashes in 3 days in Utah this past summer. The first day I took a handlebar to the armpit. The second day I crashed hard crossing a dry river bed and my hands and hip were totally black and blue. The third day I crashed and the handlebar hit me in the kidney. I just kept getting back on the bike and riding. At the end of the tour I got the Million Dollar Injury Award.

Most fun - climbing up to Lagoa do Fogo on Sao Miguel. Someday we'll get those Azores pictures posted.

V.

Shaula

10-20-2005, 10:52 AM

Real name: Shaula

Where do you live? Folkston, Georgia

Explanation of your handle: Not too original, I'm afraid

Explanation of your avatar: This cat looks just like a cat I raised from birth - Phoebe

Age (general or specific) 44

Occupation: Media Center Parapro at an Elementary School

Favorite bike: would LOVE a Trek Pilot!!!

What's in your stable? Giant OCR 3

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 30 mph

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have very many pixs of myself - I hate having my pix taken

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: That I wasn't pregnant (when I really was - don't ask!)

Most memorable moment on my bike: Well, it's not the kind of memory you want to remember! I was riding a loop around the Okefenokee Swamp. It started to rain - if anyone lives in the southeast, you know how we get torrential downpours. I could barely see a foot ahead of me. Saw what I thought was a black stick in the middle of the road. Swerved to avoid it and looked to my right to see a cottonmouth snake with it's mouth wide opened, showing me why they call them cottonmouths! It was inches from my ankle. I think that's when I went my top speed of 30mph!!! : :eek:

Most fun ever had on a bike? The best time is when it's cool, no wind, no traffic! Early morning rides are awesome!

CorsairMac

10-20-2005, 12:58 PM

Welcome to the board Shaula. What I wouldn't give for a Trek Pilot, or Madone, or..........

Holy Smokes on the cottonmouth story - that Would be a memorable ride! Hope to keep seeing ya around!

fretwes

10-20-2005, 04:43 PM

Ok here goes:

Real name: Sheila
Where do you live? Pittsburgh, PA

Explanation of your handle: That's a secret.

Explanation of your avatar: Still trying to GET one of those.

Age (general or specific) 40

Occupation: Telecom Analyst

Favorite bike: Mmmm... I like the Trek5200 WSD

What's in your stable? Trek 2000

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when?

52 km/hour (my bike computer and I are both Canadian). This summer, going down a steep hill, trying to get up as much speed as possible to get UP the next hill.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? No pictures handy.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told:

"We're just friends" :)

Most memorable moment on my bike:

I PASSED my husband going up a hill. He is a very strong cyclist and an especially strong climber who inevitably has to wait for me in hilly territory. One day this summer I was feeling espeically energetic and found myself on his back tire. I mustered all my energy and blew by him, then pulled ahead. Surprised the @#$# out of him.

Most fun ever had on a bike?

Riding in the hills around Sewickly - beautiful winding, rolling, smoothly paved roads with very little traffic.

bikerHen

10-20-2005, 09:41 PM

Hi Abuelitodimetu, I was at Chico State way back in the late 70's, even managed to get my BA degree! I rode my bike to school, to work and all over Bidwell Park. I really enjoyed my years there. Way to go riding UP honey run! That is some climb. Is the old covered bridge still there? BikerHen

CorsairMac

10-21-2005, 10:31 AM

btchance

10-22-2005, 08:44 AM

Real name: Kim

Where do you live? Birmingham, AL but I'm an Okie at heart :)

Explanation of your handle: Variation on the name of a horse I showed for years, it's what I've always used and I've just never bothered making up a new one.

Explanation of your avatar: Don't really have time to mess with getting one.

Age (general or specific): 24

Occupation: going through the nightmare of medical school

Favorite bike: the only one I have

What's in your stable? A giant MTB I got from my friend when she upgraded

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? When? absolutely no idea, I'm kinda a chicken when it comes to going fast although I'm getting better

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I avoid the camera at all costs

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Eh, I have no idea

Most memorable moment on my bike: Every time I do something I hadn't been able to do previously, whether it's getting over an obstacle I've never gotten over before on the trails, or getting up one of those hills on the road easier than I had before.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Getting up early in the morning and going out on the trails before everyone else, being around the wild life with no outside distractions.

fretwes

10-22-2005, 02:37 PM

welcome to the board fret! so - what IS the meaning behind your ID.......inquiring minds want to know! *wink wink nod nod*

and I LOVE the story of passing your hubby on a hill - I could just imagine the look on his face! WoooHoo we are Women hear us ROAR!

3

Thanks! Actually I was just trying to be smart. My id is the first 5 letters of my last name, followed by the first letter of first name. Boring eh?

BikeMomma

10-22-2005, 03:21 PM

3

Thanks! Actually I was just trying to be smart. My id is the first 5 letters of my last name, followed by the first letter of first name. Boring eh?
Sounds smart to me.... I thought at first you were fretting over some guy named Wes. :D :p

kmoty

10-22-2005, 07:07 PM

Real name: Karen

Where do you live? Jessup, MD

Explanation of your handle: Unimaginative: first initial, first part of last name. Easy to remember.

Explanation of your avatar: I think cats are the nicest of animals—this one, like me, is looking at a bike with equal parts anxiety and hope.

Age (general or specific): 57. Hadn’t been on a bike in 25 years, completely non-athletic, and feeling like a VERY late bloomer.

Occupation: Evaluation officer, federal agency that works with museums and libraries.

Favorite bike: The Schwinn 10-speed I used for commuting from Boston to Cambridge 25 years ago!

What's in your stable? Trek WSD 1000 and Sedona hybrid (mistake). But the road bike has Campy hoods and gears. I know, kind of like rigging a jet engine on a go cart, but the Shimano hoods were just too big for my little hands—and I’ve always liked contraditions.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Too slow to hurt myself much. I’m a klutz.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I hate having my picture taken.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: My besetting sin is too much honest information.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Too new to have one. For me, staying upright is still a triumph! Just went to clipless, so that’s no small achievement.

Most fun ever had on a bike? See above. It’s not really fun yet. I KNOW it can be.

anne_77

10-23-2005, 02:57 PM

Real name: ?

Where do you live: Central Pennsylvania

Explanation of your handle: Needed a fake name for internet

Age: 29

Occupation: Grad school

Favorite bike: I don't know anything about bikes but I love what I'm riding now - why change?

What's in your stable: Trek 1000 SL

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 24 mph according to my little computer - I don't remember that though

Another picture of yourself or your ride? No pics on bike - I can't photograph myself while riding!

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: huh?

Most memorable moment on my bike: Slow-mode falling while avoiding a petrified pedestrian - I had just gotten my clipless pedals and I couldn't unclip in time! All he had to do was keep moving! Oh - and there were numerous other witnesses who asked if I was OK.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Driving by a pasture of baby cows - how cute! Don't worry - it's a diary farm. I'm pretty sure they're not for eating :)

CorsairMac

10-24-2005, 11:02 AM

Welcome to the board BT. Med School?? :eek: Good luck and nice to meet ya!!

Welcome to the board Kmoty! So I gotta ask - you still Got that Schwinn? I lost my first real road bike in the course of too many moves but man I still miss that thing! but "not really fun yet?" is that coz you just went clipless??

Welcome to the board Anne! Yup I think we've all done that "falling over in slo-mo while still clipped in" thing!! Welcome to the club! ;)

kmoty

10-24-2005, 06:00 PM

This is/you are an amazing group of women. Perhaps not really amazing, since I think women are smart, caring, thoughtful, and willing to share themselves, but it's a privilege to see all of those things play out in the postings on TE.

Nope, I gave the Schwinn to my partner's daughter 10 years ago, and it was lost in one of several moves. Yep, I still miss it.

The "not fun yet" bit is because I'm still a little scared of the bike. Like one or two others who have spoken in various threads, I learn physical stuff slowly (I'm much quicker at the analytical/empathetic stuff), and I hate the process of learning anything. It may take me a while, but I'll keep plugging away.

Just hearing about others' experience is a great support.

Thanks, all, for just sharing who you are.

Karen

Michelemarrano

10-24-2005, 06:56 PM

I guess I'll finally introduce myself--

Name: Michele Hoepfner

Age; 44

Locale: Columbus Ohio

Occupation: Manager, FedEx, Team Captain MS Team FedEx Ohio

In the Stable: My bikes: 2002 Bianchi Boardwalk with racing slicks, 1990-something Trek MTB with low miles. Hubby: 2004 EZ Racer Speedster recumbent + 1993 Schwinn MTB (with extra high cushy handlbars). Daughter #1: Jamis WSD MTB (she will only ride if it's to the MALL), Daughter #2: Mongoose MTB and Schwinn STINGRAY (Like the one I had in 1970).

Other hobbies: Camping/RV-ing, former horsey-lady. My kids think I love our dog more than I love them (**laugh**)

Biggest Lie---None---I'm from FedEx--I don't have time to lie!!

Fait accompli: Put on our own Passover Seder in 2005....got dinner on the table only 17 minutes into the holiday meal---read Hagaddah at FedEx warp speed, entire evening wrapped up, dessert and coffee, within 2 hours!!

traveller_62

10-24-2005, 07:01 PM

Guess I'll jump in and introduce myself as well...

Real name: Carol

Where do you live? Mount Desert Island, Maine

Explanation of your handle: I travel a lot for work and I was born in '62

Explanation of your avatar: The suitcase represents my literal and metaphoric journey through life

Age: 43

Occupation: Scientist

Favorite bike: My brand new competition red Serotta Fierte!!

What's in your stable? Trek 7000 mountain bike, Terry Classic, Serotta Fierte

Fastest speed on a road bike? Where? When? 40 mph coming down Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park . :cool:

Biggest lie you’ve ever told? Lying takes waaaaay too much energy.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Not yet but I’ll work on it!

Most memorable moment on my bike? One of the most memorable moments was a recent bike ride in Tuscany, Italy. Particularly enjoyable was biking back to Florence after a 2 hour lunch in the countryside (with much wine).

I’m adding this one to the list-> Ride you dream about doing? Riding the “Going to the Sun” highway through Glacier National Park, Montana

CorsairMac

10-25-2005, 11:23 AM

This is/you are an amazing group of women. Perhaps not really amazing, since I think women are smart, caring, thoughtful, and willing to share themselves, but it's a privilege to see all of those things play out in the postings on TE.
The "not fun yet" bit is because I'm still a little scared of the bike. Like one or two others who have spoken in various threads, I learn physical stuff slowly (I'm much quicker at the analytical/empathetic stuff), and I hate the process of learning anything. It may take me a while, but I'll keep plugging away.

Just hearing about others' experience is a great support.

Thanks, all, for just sharing who you are.

Karen
Well if there is anything we can do to pass the fun on - we're here for ya! and I'll be keeping you in my thoughts as you go through the learning phase!

CorsairMac

10-25-2005, 11:25 AM

Fait accompli: Put on our own Passover Seder in 2005....got dinner on the table only 17 minutes into the holiday meal---read Hagaddah at FedEx warp speed, entire evening wrapped up, dessert and coffee, within 2 hours!!

ROFLMAO! I Loved the way you wrote that! Thanks for the grins and giggles - and welcome to the board!

CorsairMac

10-25-2005, 11:31 AM

traveller_62

10-25-2005, 12:43 PM

welcome to the board Traveller! Mt Desert Island?? it was the last place my ex took me and I LOVED the island - hated the time spent with the ex! ROFL

I vaguely remember renting bikes and riding the carriage trails there - does that sound right?? He was such a jackazz when it came to riding I may have blocked that memory out! (yet another reason he's an ex! ;) )

If it wasn't for your winters I would've loved to have moved there!!

Thanks for the welcome, CorsairMac. I've enjoyed this message board. Great stuff gets posted here and I've found the board to be full of very supportive, enthusiastic cyclists. :)

I'm bummed that your memories of MDI include a not so great experience with your ex. If you come back to visit let me know and we'll go out for a great ride around the island. There is some awesome cycling here.

Just as you mention, there are 50-plus miles of carriage road trails that wind through Acadia National Park. No cars are allowed on them but you do have to watch out for folks on horseback! I tend to spend more time on the Park Loop Road (asphalt) than on the Carriage Roads (dirt/gravel).

Winters aren't too bad except that we don't have much daylight. Because we are on the ocean it doesn't get as cold here as it does elsewhere in Maine. But I like the cold weather so it suits me pretty good. When we decent snow, the Carriage Roads are just the ticket for some great cross country skiing. And when there is no snow there is always ice skating across the many lakes and ponds!

makbike

10-26-2005, 07:22 PM

Real name: Marcie

Where do you live? Shelbyville, KY

Explanation of your handle: my initial + what I like to do, bike.

Age (general or specific) 43 soon to be 44 (New Years Day)

Occupation: Middle School Science Teacher

Favorite bike: I've only had one, purchased my Univega GrandTorismo back in 1986 when I was in college. Maybe someday I'll purchase a new bike but hey I love my little blue bike!

What's in your stable? Univega Grand Torismo

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 38.6, somewhere around Louisville on July 20, 2005

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I have a few but they are too large to post

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I try not to lie.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Completing my first century last month, average speed 16.6 mph. I had so much fun I rode another the following weekend.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Riding with my SO!

tattiefritter

10-27-2005, 09:24 AM

Real name: Julie

Where do you live? Preston, UK

Explanation of your handle: It's a Scottish delicacy (like a battered, deep fried potato burger) which I loved as a teenager - think their disgusting now though.
Explanation of your avatar: Don't have one yet, must get round to it.

Age (general or specific) 31

Occupation: Database Administrator

Favorite bike: My new baby, my Titus MotoLite

What's in your stable? My Titus, my Rock Lobster hardtail (gathering dust at the moment), My Ribble road bike (fair weather commuter) my Old Specialized Rock Hopper hack bike (filthy weather commuter), half of a Collela full-suss mtb tandem.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? about 38mph, on the downhill before arriving at work (still find road brakes scary in comparison to disks)
Another picture of yourself or your ride? Don't have a pic of me on the Titus uploaded yet, but there is one of my hardtail not covered in kak (for a change)
http://www.jeznewsome.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/Mee_Julie%20Rock%20Lobster.htm

Some other pictures of me actually riding my RL and one of me looking worried on the back of the tandem as well as some of our other bikes etc on the website
http://www.jeznewsome.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Not a good liar

Most memorable moment on my bike: A few, but one I'm most proud of lately is completing the Mary Towneley Loop ( total of 50 mile off road ride - about 90% off road) in crappy weather and headwind from hell and feeling ok the next day.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Around Easter time this year on the Glentress Red mtb route in Scotland. Its not a particularly technical route but the sun was shining (miracle for Scotland), track was dry so railing all the berms, flying along and pedalling harder on the descent than the up, magic!

CorsairMac

10-27-2005, 10:13 AM

Welcome to the board Mak! Congrats on your first - and your second century! They kinda get addicting don't they! I was gonna try and do one a month once I started riding em - but my Sats have become Waaaay to hectic to even get a short ride in! *cigh* misses summer already!

CorsairMac

10-27-2005, 10:16 AM

welcome to the board Tattie!........ROFL loved your ID and your description. Guess I'm gonna have to make it back to Scotland to try one of those! and Congrats on the new bike! I always love reading about ppls new rides!

PS: Mak, Tattie did ya'll see the TE map thread too? Lets ya mark - kinda sorta - where ya'll live and see whereabout the rest of us are!

Madizell

10-28-2005, 06:39 PM

Real name: Linda

Where do you live? Prescott, Arizona

Explanation of your handle: It is the name of the street where my house is(that I love but am NOT living in but I will live in again). My boys and I also like to call it "Mad Gazelle" or, when it fits, "Mad As Hell."

Explanation of your avatar: Like so many before me, I have yet to get one, have one, know what one is!

Age: 45 and counting

Occupation: Accountant (hence the counting)

Favorite bike: Well - the one I have! And, like so many other things, I just don't know any better!

What's in your stable? Just my old Schwinn tank.

Fastest speed on a road bike? Where? When? Lordy . . . I have no idea. I know my slowest speed, though.

Biggest lie you’ve ever told? "I would LOVE for you to come visit for Christmas!!!"

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I really, really, really hate pictures. But I'm learning to lighten up.

Most memorable moment on my bike? So far . . . . . just doing it every day is amazing me. I don't really have a very good memory, so I try to live in the moment.

CorsairMac

10-31-2005, 10:12 AM

Welcome to the board Mad!! I gotta tell ya - I was one of the "mad as hell" folk and was giggling at how clever you user name was, still is! I used to live in Phoenix - rode the Harley up to Prescott in the summers to escape the heat! Love that ride up the back road - *cigh* - I just need to get my hinney back there!! ;)

Michelemarrano

10-31-2005, 08:04 PM

Hi Corsair Mac--Thanks for welcoming us to the board. Are you the Almighty Board Queen for Team Estrogen?

If not, you're a great hostess!! xoxox MM

DirtDiva

11-01-2005, 10:26 AM

Don't call her that! :eek: It'll go to her head!! :p ;)

CorsairMac

11-01-2005, 10:31 AM

Hi Corsair Mac--Thanks for welcoming us to the board. Are you the Almighty Board Queen for Team Estrogen?

If not, you're a great hostess!! xoxox MM

ROFL - it's a lonely thankless job but Somebody has to do it! (hears little tiny violins playing in the background) ;)

Actually I spend most of my day here since my job doesn't keep me busy enough to fill 8 hrs so I just happen to be the one to "catch" most of the newcomers first. Plus I've been a newbie before where no one even noticed I was there and man can that be discouraging - especially if someone is a first time poster and is already nervous about it. Besides - I just LOVE to chat! (I know that last part was hard to tell :p )

But thanks for the compliment

CorsairMac

11-01-2005, 10:47 AM

Don't call her that! :eek: It'll go to her head!! :p ;)

You!! Hush! It isn't often someone calls me a queen - they are usually using Other names with mine in the same sentence! :rolleyes:

CorsairMac

11-01-2005, 11:01 AM

Someone else did this and I thought it was a great idea - it's been almost a year since I posted last and things have - ummmm - changed slightly so here is an update:

Real name: Kathie

Where do you live? Albuquerque, New Mexico

Explanation of your handle: I think the F4U-Corsair is one of the most awesome planes ever built and my father was flight engineer for the last Corsair outfit to fly in the Navy. The Mac is part of my last name.

Explanation of your avatar: They are members of the Ladies Morallly Fashionable Cycling Society from the turn of the century!

Age (general or specific) 46

Occupation: Administrative Assistant

Favorite bike: would Love either a Rivendell or a Luna.

What's in your stable? Trek Navigator 200 comfort bike, Trek 820 mountain bike, 1986 Peugeot Avoraiz road bike, 1989 Trek 1100 road bike

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 45.0 going down one of the many screaming descents we have here - I was passing Cars!!! :eek:

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have very many pixs of myself - I hate having my pix taken

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I can't remember, which means I've either told too many, or I don't lie! (I'll let ya'll pick!)

Most memorable moment on my bike: My very first century. I wouldn't have been able to even attempt it if it hadn't been for the support I received here on TE and over at BikeJournal.com. It was going to have to be completely sef-supported and I was going to be riding alone but so many people told me I could do it and they were right! And wow!! what a feeling of accomplishment.

Most fun ever had on a bike? I have an occassional biking buddy who is an ex-racer and one day while struggling up one of the many gawd-awful hills out here he rode by me with his shorts pulled down around his knees! I was laughing so hard that hill suddenly didn't look so big or so steep. Now every time I struggle up a hill - I just think if him mooning his way along that incline and get the giggles. Nothing helps ya climbing better than giggling while you're doing it!
__________________

akalexlee

11-01-2005, 03:27 PM

Real name: Lexie

Where do you live? Saratoga Springs N.Y.

Explanation of your handle: People call me Lex

Explanation of your avatar: Could you tell me how to add one?

Age (general or specific) 45

Occupation: Pharmacy Technician

Favorite bike: Specialized Sirrus

What's in your stable? Diamondback Wildwood Deluxe and Specialized Sirrus

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 32 miles per hour, about a mile from my house on a steep hill.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have very many pictures of myself - I hate having my picture taken.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: When I snuck out with friends and told my parents I did it because I saw my sister older get in a strangers car.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Riding my first 25 mile Tour de Cure on a humid day with the temperature in the nineties.

Most fun ever had on a bike? I have a good time everytime I go out.

DirtDiva

11-02-2005, 01:56 AM

*bows before Queen Corsair, just this once* ;)

Welcome Lexie. :)

CorsairMac

11-02-2005, 10:34 AM

*does the royal wave* thank you thank you!.........and now back to our regularly scheduled programme:

Welcome to the board aka. So I gotta ask......did your sister get in trouble?? Silly me I have 2 sisters and a brother and it never occurred to me to use Them to get myself outta trouble! Course they probably had just as much or more on me! As for the avatar - type "avatar" in the search box and it should pull up a thread that tells ya how to do one. (coz I can't remember right now how to do it either! :eek: )

Running Mommy

11-02-2005, 04:57 PM

Real name: Denise
Where do you live? Phoenix AZ area..

Explanation of your handle: I've had the same handle since I first registered on the Runners World forum. I started as a runner then moved on to Triathlon.

Explanation of your avatar: I wish I could get my pics small enough to HAVE an avatar.

Age (general or specific): 36, On Jan 10th will be 37

Occupation: CHO- Chief household officer.. lol

Favorite bike: Kestrel tri rig - if only they built them small enough for me. Also like to drool over the Orbea's- they're so purty.... ; )

What's in your stable? Specialized Allez Dolce/ Specialized hard rock mtn rig- low end cause I'm not really a dirt girl..

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 25+ on some huge hill at a tri in San Dimas last summer. Actually was prolly going 30+ now that I think about it!
Another picture of yourself or your ride? Go here to see my pics.. Still need to add the pic of my bike tho...
http://photobucket.com/albums/a157/tony66denise69/?sc=1

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Hmmmm.. nothing too major. Mostly little fibs to get me out of things. Though I did pretend to be really sick once so I could go riding... hee hee hee

Most memorable moment on my bike: Hmmmm... I did a sprint tri last may that had a two mile climb up a mine road to the turn around. I was tucked in behind a guy going super slow for awhile but holding back cause I didn't want to draft. Finally I realized that I had WAY more gas in the tank than that, so I passed him. I also passed a young guy on a mtn. bike. Well he didn't take to kindly to that, but he was never able to catch up to me. He did catch me on the run though and said "hey, thanks for motivating me on the bike". My reply was "no problem" but I was thinking "must stink to get smoked by a fat chick"...

Most fun ever had on a bike? See above... I thought the bike course was gong to kill me, but it turns out I'm really pretty good on rollers.

CorsairMac

11-03-2005, 11:13 AM

Welcome to the board RM. I used to live in Chandler and am still working on how to get myself back there! :rolleyes: Loved the story about passing the kid on the mtn bike - just makes ya feel good all over don't it! :p

Yasmin

11-06-2005, 02:52 AM

Real name: Yasmin
Where do you live? Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.

Explanation of your avatar: This is one of my (feline) children. His name is Chenenko & he is a Russian Blue baby boy & gorgeous!

Age (general or specific) 49 (20th July, 1956)

Occupation: Diagnostic Radiographer (MRI & C/T)

Favorite bike: The 3 that I own.

What's in your stable? Trek 2300 Road bike, Trek 7200 Hybrid & trusty (not rusty) old Shogun mountain bike.

Fastest speed on a road bike? 76km/hr down the old “Eagle-on-the-Hill” Freeway with tailwind.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I tried...did it work?

Most memorable moment on my bike: Doing a tour through Kangaroo Island (off the coast). Adult mum kangaroo & joey (baby) kept with us for about 5kms…just 5 meters in front. Awesome. Not scared because not noisy (like cars).

Most fun ever had on a bike? There are sooo many good times. Even if I start off feeling blue it’s not long before Nature: Sun, wind, birds, rain, lizards, sheep, cows, horses, alpaca (kind of long haired llama), cats, dogs,rainbows, stars etc have me feeling good again.

Running Mommy

11-06-2005, 04:45 PM

Thanks Corsair...
I don't know how long it's been since you were here, but this place has exploded! The growth is INSANE! Even my favorite "road to nowhere" will soon lead to a bunch of subdivisions! UGH! :cool:

CorsairMac

11-07-2005, 12:36 PM

Welcome to the board Yasmin. I should get some pixs of my pets posted too - I just hate taking pixs and posting them........guess a camerabug I am not!

and RM-I left Chandler in the fall of 1999 and they were taking about capping the building growth then so I can't even imagine what it looks like now! :eek:

SJCzar

11-08-2005, 12:10 PM

Hi Yasmin,

We also have a sweet Russian Blue that we adopted 8 years ago from a shelter. She has the softest fur, the cutest face and a very interesting personality.

Welcome to the board.

Eaglewalker

11-08-2005, 06:02 PM

Real name: Patricia

Where do you live? Memphis, Tennessee

Explanation of your handle: Well, it sort of explains how I make sense of my life, which otherwise defies explanation.

Explanation of your avatar: That's Little Moe. I rescue rabbits (the domestic kind).

Age (general or specific): verging on my sixth decade on earth.

Occupation: Systems analyst

Favorite bike: "Love the one you're with."

What's in your stable? Crimson Joy (my shiny red Trek 4500, modified for city riding/trekking -- lighter kevlar tires, hybrid handlebars, Easy Seat saddle -- a machine much envied by the bike cop I met at a bike shop one morning)

Fastest speed on a road bike? Last time I rode a road bike, I didn't have a speedometer, and it was so long ago that I wouldn't remember, anyway.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? None available, unless there's one in a Homeland Security file somewhere (apparently they think that animal rights advocates are dangerous subversives).

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "Don't be silly. Your hair looks great."

Most memorable moment on my bike: Maybe that would be the hornet that hitched a ride on my shorts all the way across Balboa Park? Well, I wasn't going to try to brush him off and risk getting stung. (Yeah, I have a dull life.)

Most fun ever had on a bike? Coasting at high speed down into the canyon and belting out "mouth music" at the top of my voice.

CorsairMac

11-09-2005, 10:12 AM

ROFLMAO - welcome to the board Eagle!! Your post is such a Hoot!! I loved the whole "animal rights=subversive!! Must be those attack rabbits you're rescuing! :rolleyes: Looking forward to hearing more from you!

Eaglewalker

11-09-2005, 04:38 PM

Yasmin

11-09-2005, 09:08 PM

Hi Yasmin,

We also have a sweet Russian Blue that we adopted 8 years ago from a shelter. She has the softest fur, the cutest face and a very interesting personality.

Welcome to the board.
Thanks for that SJCzar. I am so happy to have discovered this site & feel right at home already. Russian Blues are so sweet. We've got 4...environmentally friendly & contained indoors or outside in a cat enclosure. All have unique personalities & they don't have a mean bone in thier bodies. Nicer than some humans I know!

Yasmin

11-09-2005, 09:16 PM

Lise

11-10-2005, 07:40 PM

Getting to Know You!

OK, I'll give it my shot!

Real name: Lise (pronounced Lisa)

Where do you live? Chicago, IL

Explanation of your handle: It's my name. I wasn't feeling creative enough when I signed up. "Run like a dachshund" because I love those dogs--they run with the purest joy. They have no idea their legs are only 3 inches long. It's a good luck charm for me to see at least one dachshund on every long race I do.

Explanation of your avatar: I wish I could figure out how to find an avatar of a dachshund.

Age (general or specific) 45

Occupation: Certified Nurse-Midwife

Favorite bike: Don't know enough to have one yet

What's in your stable? Marin Larkspur City bike. Great for riding around Chicago. I've done two international tris, three sprint tris, and a metric century on it. That said, I'm getting a "real" triathlon bike next spring.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 23mph, in the Lake Zurich triathlon last 8/14.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Hmmm, I do not know how to add a picture...

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Definitely not revealing it here!

Most memorable moment on my bike: A sprint tri this May. I was dripping wet, freezing cold, underdressed, and I rode harder than I ever have in my life. I felt so strong.

Most fun ever had on a bike? It's a toss-up between riding to swimming lessons when I was 7, and riding all over Chicago on my 45th birthday, just doing what ever I wanted to do.
...................
I found this site and first posted on the triathlon board--here's some of the info about me from there--

I'm 45 years old, did my first triathlon 2 years ago. I was a an active kid, then life happened, and I became completely alienated from my body. By 40, I was "crippled" (my perspective) with chronic pelvic pain from endometriosis. I was 30# overweight, and going through a nasty divorce. I made some new friends, and tagged along when one did the Accenture Chicago Triathlon. I saw old people, fat people, a woman in a clown suit, and thought, "I wonder if I could do that?"

You know the answer, of course! NO! Not in a clown suit! But YES! In regular tri gear! My first tri was completely un-researched. A friend and I did it together. We picked the Lake Zurich triathlon , an international distance, because, well, we didn't know anything. We didn't know there was such a thing as a "sprint" distance. So we swam across Lake Zurich, rode the hills of Lake County, and ...walked 6.25 mi. We were dead last across the finish line, but the organizers put our picture up on the website with congratulations to all the first-timers. I was bitten by the tri-bug when I did it again the following year.

This year I've done two sprints, one international distance tri, a metric century ride, two 5K runs, a 1/2 marathon, and the Chicago Marathon. If you're going to have a mid-life crisis, turning into an athlete is not a bad one to have. I'm doing the 8K Turkey Trot on, you guessed it, Thanksgiving Day.

Mostly I am tickled pink to be an athlete. There's still so much to learn. This is the first winter when I'm seriously committing to training all winter. My goal is to do a 1/2 Ironman. After the 100K bike ride, I was sure I had no desire to do the Ironman. Kudos to those of you who do!

Biking is far and away my favorite part of triathlon. On the bike I feel strong and free. It is one of the best feelings in the world. My mom started biking when she was 60 years old, and at 70 is still going strong. We have a tradition of adult-onset athleticism in our family!

Best wishes to all--I'm looking forward to reading more posts and getting to know you all, too! Lise

CorsairMac

11-11-2005, 11:34 AM

Welcome to the board Lise! My parents have had dachshund for years usually minis and they are just too cute. I found you a pix of one - you need to save it to some type of photo place - someone else here can probably tell you better - and then you have to resize it to use it as an avatar! as for attaching a photo:
when you're posting, scroll down and you'll see a "manage attachments", that's what you use to put photos in posts.

Lise

11-11-2005, 02:21 PM

Thanks, CorsairMac! Just seeing a dachshund lifts my heart. I'll work on the picture uploading skills! Take care, Lise

Yasmin

11-11-2005, 07:35 PM

Lise

11-11-2005, 08:07 PM

laughlaugh18

11-11-2005, 09:43 PM

Real name: Cathy

Where do you live? Los Angeles, CA (San Fernando Valley)

Explanation of your handle: 18 is my favorite number and laugh laugh is something I try to remember to do lots of, no matter how bad the day.

Explanation of your avatar: Maybe I'll figure one out someday.

Age (general or specific) 49 last month

Occupation: Attorney

Favorite bike: Don't know yet - one that fits my 5'2", finicky, bad neck, bad shoulder, bad knee, I-may-not-look-49-but-I-sure-feel-it-sometimes, princess-and-the-pea body.

What's in your stable? A (5'7") friend's hand me down Trek 820 mtb, which I can ride for about an hour before my body starts squealing (see above). I've been so frustrated by the bike-shopping experience that I'm taking some time off from the quest.

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Wha'? Bikes can go fast? My brakes are my friends.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Here's a picture of me visiting the Christo Gates in NY last February. Snow is cold! (I'm a native Angeleno)

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Does most frequent count? "I've been working on it; I'll have it to you by tomorrow."

Most memorable moment on my bike: Not too much to chose from yet - my first ride in 30 some-odd years last August. A 12 mile round trip on the bike path from Manhattan Beach to Redondo Beach with friends to meet another friend for breakfast. I was amazed that I stayed upright, let alone survived and even enjoyed it. Hmm, I thought, it's execise and it's fun. What a novel concept for a life-long couch potato (yep, I happily sat and watched (thanks to Tivo) every day of the entire Tour de France on OLN, both the morning and evening editions).

Most fun ever had on a bike? I grew up in a hilly area and had a Schwinn 3 speed. I don't really remember biking being fun back then. Here's to newer and funner memories!

laughlaugh18

11-11-2005, 09:45 PM

Wow, that picture's big. Sorry if it's too big. I'm still figuring out how to work these things!

azurs

11-12-2005, 05:50 AM

--

Real name: Anne-Marie

Where do you live? Québec city

Explanation of your handle: handle ?

Explanation of your avatar: avatar?

Age: 44

Occupation: Social Worker

Favorite bike: The next=buy it in 2006 and now my minelli that i will use in winter for go to work maybe.....

What's in your stable? stable?

Fastest speed on a road bike? .No idea i dont make bike for performance

Biggest lie you’ve ever told? ""that i am heterosexual but it was i long long time ago…..

Another picture of yourself or your ride? .?

Most memorable moment on my bike when i feel zen in the road

Most fun ever had on a bike? Last summer in the parc de la mauricie

Bye!!!!

Trek420

11-12-2005, 01:17 PM

welcome to TE

we have a lotta Canadians here, eh? (not me tho) :)

Yasmin

11-12-2005, 01:40 PM

Hi Yasmin,

We also have a sweet Russian Blue that we adopted 8 years ago from a shelter. She has the softest fur, the cutest face and a very interesting personality.

Welcome to the board.
Something really sad happened yesterday. One of our (feline) children was killed by a Brown Snake (2nd deadliest snake in the world). We have a contained cat enclosure outside & the snake must've come into here. Minsky had only been outside for 1 hr. We're devastated. Now we're down to 3...
Yasmin.

Yasmin

11-12-2005, 01:42 PM

Yasmin

11-12-2005, 01:47 PM

Yasmin

11-12-2005, 01:55 PM

ROFL - it's a lonely thankless job but Somebody has to do it! (hears little tiny violins playing in the background) ;)

Actually I spend most of my day here since my job doesn't keep me busy enough to fill 8 hrs so I just happen to be the one to "catch" most of the newcomers first. Plus I've been a newbie before where no one even noticed I was there and man can that be discouraging - especially if someone is a first time poster and is already nervous about it. Besides - I just LOVE to chat! (I know that last part was hard to tell :p )

But thanks for the compliment
I've gotta tell you Kathie (CorsairMac) that your contribution (especially for new people like me) is really lovely. You must have a big heart sifting through & finding the time to make everyone feel welcome. Just wanted you to know how nice it is to be on the recieving end.
tlkiwi...I don't think you miss anyone either. Good on you girls. You really set the culture & make it feel like home.
Kindest regards,
Yasmin.

Yasmin

11-12-2005, 02:17 PM

Good heavens, girl, sit down! Take a rest! I do wonder about the running and cycling for seven years simultaneously... ;) Yeah, I love the doxies. We had a miniature black and tan smooth coated girl named Schatzi. She was with us for 19 years. I knew a guy whose mini-doxie died when it was 23 years old. The guy's father was devastated when the dog died. He chastised his son, "It's because you smoke!" "Dad", the guy replied, "He was a dog! He wasn't going to out live you!" But...one does get awfully attached. Now I have two cats, Ariel and Isaac, who love to be as close to me as possible when I'm around, but can fend for themselves when I'm at the hospital for a 24 (+?) hour call shift. I'd love a dog, but they're not feasible for the single midwife.

Thanks for welcoming me to the boards! Since you swim and bike and run, do ever do all three at once-ish, in a triathlon?

Take care, Lise

I've toyed with the idea of doing triathlons but have had a run of injuries in the last 2 yrs (lower back, Rt. ankle, Lt. knee). The limiting factor is my back (Left sided L5/S1 facet joint for those with anatomical knowledge). However, I haven't completely given up on the idea. At present I am in training for a cycling event in Victoria, Australia Jan 06: the "Audax Alpine Classic"...200km which includes 3,600m of vertical climbing in mid summer. Hence, cycling has dominated my existence the last couple of months. I wanted to do this gruelling event before I turned 50 (20th July 2006). Sometimes I think I must be going a little crazy, but if you only live once, why not? Regards, Yasmin.

Yasmin

11-12-2005, 02:29 PM

Lise

11-12-2005, 05:53 PM

At present I am in training for a cycling event in Victoria, Australia Jan 06: the "Audax Alpine Classic"...200km which includes 3,600m of vertical climbing in mid summer.
Wow! That's impressive. I've come back from nearly disabling pelvic pain due to severe endometriosis, exacerbated by three years of infertility treatments. I was in a chronic pain program 6 years ago, in which they suggested I either use anti-depressants as pain relievers, or start aerobic exercise. They said the results would be the same. I took the Rx, because I knew I'd never be an athlete. I got a fair amount of PT for my right S-I joint. You can guess the upshot, since I'm here...no longer on any drugs, and I'm a triathlete and marathon finisher today.

I'm really impressed with your upcoming biking feat. This summer I did a 100km ride through the mildly rolling hills of northern Illinois. It kicked my butt. I did it on my "city" bike, but this is a fairly streamlined bike that I've ridden in 6 triathlons. I'm looking forward to getting a "real" tri bike at the big bike expo this April in Chicago.

Today I watched the Kona Ironman World Championship Triathlon highlights on TV. I cried through a lot of it. Triathlon is such an amazing sport. I hope you get to try it sometime.

Best wishes,

Lise

Duck on Wheels

11-12-2005, 07:29 PM

Real name: Ann
Where do you live? Trondheim, Norway (but this year in Madison WI). And no, I'm not from Hell, but it's nearby and my husband is from there. I've been through Hell many times, also to Hell and back, and seen it frozen over. Our airport is right out there. They also have an annual Blues Festival ... great shirts! And at Xmas time there's the annual beer-tasting hike.

Explanation of your handle: No imagination, and no bike. At the time. Should change it now to something like "lame duck".

Explanation of your avatar: none, so no explanation

Age (general or specific) 56. So maybe "old duck" is even better.

Occupation: Professor

Favorite bike: I have no idea! My men's 20" Trek back home fits better, but the women's 19" Giant here rolls better. And that's the only two I have any opinion on so far.

What's in your stable? One Trek at home and one Giant here, both "hybrid" or "comfort bikes".

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Only speed I've ever measured was today, and that was NOT fast! Nor was it a road bike.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have very many pixs of myself. I hate having my pix taken! And definitely no pics of me on a bike since the age of ... 9? In fact, even that one, I think I'm just standing beside it.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I've told 2 I still
have a bad conscience about, and I think they're best left unretold.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Hmmm. The time I fell off when big brother insisted that I had to learn to mount like a boy? This was on a steep shale driveway, barelegged, in California. I've done him some damage back tho, when he was teaching me to swing a baseball bat and I kept on swinging as he walked away ... Or was it the first time I rode a bike with handbrakes and couldn't get myself to use them? Or the time I took a right turn from a stop sign wearing a tight miniskirt, and the back hub failed? I spun and spun but the bike just tipped slooooowly to the right and I couldn't get my leg down to stop. Or the time I lost a race against a fellow student, then played "couldn't care less" by resting my bare feet on the front hub and got a heel caught in the spokes. As you can tell ... lots of memories of defeat and disaster.

Most fun ever had on a bike? I guess that would be today, just realizing that I could ride 20 miles and enjoy it. :D

Trek420

11-12-2005, 07:38 PM

bikeless in WI " wrote" I'm not from Hell, but it's nearby and my husband is from there. I've been through Hell many times, also to Hell and back, and seen it frozen over. Our airport is right out there."

Yes, and when you fly there the pilot announces "ladies and gentlemen, please fasten your seatbelts. We are now descending into Hell"

:D welcome to TE

pkq

11-13-2005, 04:14 AM

Thanks!

And I'm not making it up about the animal rights folks. A friend of mine -- in fact, the head of my organization, Rabbitwise -- is a psychotherapist and a registered "first responder", so she has to take seminars from time to time to keep her certification current. In one of them, the class was informed that animal rights advocates should be considered potential terrorists. One of the groups identified by name was the Doris Day Animal League.

Osama bin Laden has some real competition there.

You have to be kidding! Doris Day a terrorist, leading a bunch of terrorists? She's the all American girl of the '50's and '60's. And animals don't have enough brain capacity to......... But how would some people know the size of a pet's brain, when their own is so small? :D

Too bad some people lack common sense and an even keeled outlook on life.

pkq

11-13-2005, 04:28 AM

laughlaugh18, your body may be feeling that pea because your bike is too big.

Unfortunately, as we age, bike fit becomes a lot more important. During my 20's and 30's, I never felt anything on any bike but that certainly changed when I hit my 40's. Now everything on the bike has to be dead on.

I also have to get off every 20-30 miles for a break and that becomes imperative on faster, hillier rides. If I don't break, my upper back and neck painfully remind me of my age for hours after the ride is done. Putzin' on the bike is not a problem on a body part; yet.

I'd get a new bike, if I were you. Shopping for new bikes is the best kind of shopping.

snapdragen

11-13-2005, 08:26 AM

Explanation of your avatar: I wish I could figure out how to find an avatar of a dachshund.

Doxies are great, I used to work in a kennel that raised them.

laughlaugh18

11-13-2005, 10:29 AM

Yasmin - I've ridden a couple of Trek hybrids and liked them. I'm waiting for the 06' WSD 7.x FX series bikes to be available around here to try it.

pkq - yep, the reach on the bike I have is wrong for me. I do intend to get a new one - just been having problems finding bike shops that have small frame bikes available for test rides. Hopefully this will be easier with the holidays coming.

Thanks for the welcome.

Cathy

Lise

11-13-2005, 04:21 PM

Snapdragon! Thank you! That's exactly the kind of picture I imagined for my avatar! I've been looking around at doxie websites, but I didn't want to steal...um...appropriate the picture of someone's pet. My mom has all the pictures of our long-gone Schatzi, and I don't think we ever photographed her running. Thanks so much! Let's see if I can turn it into an avatar!

Lise

CorsairMac

11-14-2005, 12:11 PM

Whewwwwwwwwwww and a BIG TE welcome to all the new ppl that have posted since I was here last!!!

Laugh: LOVE your handle, brought a smile to my face when I first read it, then brought a laugh to my day when I read why you picked it. Thanks for that!!
(btw: Hated the pix....no it wasn't too big I just Hate snow and I Hate being cold! and that pix had BOTH!! ;) )

Azurs: again welcome to the board. a Handle is the name you picked as your login ID, Azurs. an Avatar is the picture some of us have under our IDs, mine are 2 morally upright ladies correctly dressed for cycling at the turn of the century. a Stable: basically what bikes do you own.

Yasmin: thank you very much for the compliment.

Lise: LOVE the avatar hun! Leave it to Snap to find the perfect one! Snap is the avatar queen!!

Snap: another Excellent job on finding Lises' avatar!

Bikeless: any family member of Treks, is a family member of mine.....no wait...that's not right. Welcome to the board my friend. Your sis is a hoot, I'm sensing here that it runs in the family!

Yasmin

11-14-2005, 05:23 PM

Wow! That's impressive. I've come back from nearly disabling pelvic pain due to severe endometriosis, exacerbated by three years of infertility treatments. I was in a chronic pain program 6 years ago, in which they suggested I either use anti-depressants as pain relievers, or start aerobic exercise. They said the results would be the same. I took the Rx, because I knew I'd never be an athlete. I got a fair amount of PT for my right S-I joint. You can guess the upshot, since I'm here...no longer on any drugs, and I'm a triathlete and marathon finisher today.

I'm really impressed with your upcoming biking feat. This summer I did a 100km ride through the mildly rolling hills of northern Illinois. It kicked my butt. I did it on my "city" bike, but this is a fairly streamlined bike that I've ridden in 6 triathlons. I'm looking forward to getting a "real" tri bike at the big bike expo this April in Chicago.

Today I watched the Kona Ironman World Championship Triathlon highlights on TV. I cried through a lot of it. Triathlon is such an amazing sport. I hope you get to try it sometime.

Best wishes,

Lise

Hi Lise. Stories like yours inspire me to keep "pushing the envelope" of personal achievement. I still hope to enter triathlons at sometime. Also like you I have found cycling (& all sport) to be the best panacea. I've struggled with depression (reactive, not bipolar) & nothing does the trick as well as sport. The drug companies would not like this fact getting out, I'm sure.
Good luck with your endomitriosis. I'm lucky not to have it, but have known women afflicted with it & what it can do. Keep up the good work!
Kindest regards,
Yasmin.

PS - I cry with seeing the "give all" performances of athletes as well. Everyone has a story & one can only imagine what they've been through to get where they are.

margo49

11-16-2005, 11:13 AM

Just last week we had a public ride (6000 riders) around the Sea of Galillee.( Only 65 km but Israel's a small country and so you either have to do "laps" or bang into international borders which are either death by bureaucracy or actual death by soldiers shooting at you)
Anyway...to my Point (You didn't think I'd go to all this trouble if I didn't have one did you??) :p

2 stories followed by 1 point
One mother with several kids said to me "Wow! Are you doing the whole ride [ there was a "family" 1/2 distance option]It's such a long way" And I said "Yeah but that's nothing compared to the distance I "rode" just to get to the starting line"
I passed and was passed by this one guy several times. One time I said "I'll finish this if it's the last thing I do" And he said "No one's chasing us " and I said "*I'm* chasing me".

The toughest jihad is the one with yourself

Trek420

11-16-2005, 02:39 PM

Yasmin "I've struggled with depression (reactive, not bipolar) & nothing does the trick as well as sport. The drug companies would not like this fact getting out, I'm sure."

only if they could find a way to bottle and sell it ;-)
=^..^= =^..^= =^..^=
Corsaire "Bikeless: any family member of Treks, is a family member of mine.....no wait...that's not right."

yes, that's right ;-)

"Welcome to the board my friend. Your sis is a hoot,"

thanks!

"I'm sensing here that it runs in the family!"

yes, when the human genome project tries to isolate the quirky sense of humor gene, and the pun gene, and the "like to be outside" gene they'll look us up.

allabouteva

11-28-2005, 03:57 AM

Real name: Eva

Where do you live?Sydney Australia or Down Under

Explanation of your handle: Sort of a take on the movie 'all about eve'

Explanation of your avatar: don't have one, not very techie so will figure it out eventually!!

Age (general or specific) 42.. So great to see other fortysomethings here!!

Occupation: Accountant, yep, beancounters ride too!

Favorite bike: dunno! :rolleyes: I haven't met a bike I didn't like!

What's in your stable? a Giant CRX1 - which is a flat bar roadbike, got it 4 weeks ago, I love it! But I'm already thinking what's next!! :D I feel the NEED for SPEED!!!

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? About 44kph (sorry don't know what that is in mph) would love to go faster, and am working on it! I'm inately cautious, so that's warring with my enjoyment of riding a bike fast...

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I'm always truthful :o heh!heh!heh!

Most memorable moment on my bike: It's all good... I just love it.

Most fun ever had on a bike? We took our cycles to Canberra about 7 weeks ago, and that's pretty much when my love affair of the two wheeled kind started. My husband and I and our two boys went cycling around lake Burley Griffith, and it was the perfect day. 30 km was a long way for me then, and it took about 3 hours!!! I've improved heaps in the few short weeks since. Here's a small picture of me on my son Michael's bike which I borrowed for the day (he rode my husband's second bike). Our second son Kieran has an intellectual disability which makes it a little more challenging finding active things to do as a family. So we bought this fantastic buggy for him, and it's like opened a whole new world for us. Life's great!!!

I'm so happy to have found this forum. There aren't many women who cycle around where I live. The LBS doesn't cater very well for women folk, and to have found a WHOLE community of like minded people, is so fantastic! :)

Lise

11-28-2005, 05:10 AM

Welcome, Eva, to the world of biking, and to these boards! I understand your delight in both. Enjoy! Lise

CorsairMac

11-28-2005, 01:26 PM

Welcome to the board Eva! So - do we need to fasten our seatbelts?.....is it going to be a bumpy ride?? ;)

and ain't YOU the lucky one.....it's summer where you live! want company?? lol

crazycanuck

11-28-2005, 03:12 PM

YAAYYYY...hello from perth..!!!! *waves* Hello!

Welcome dear...!

c

allabouteva

11-30-2005, 02:49 AM

:) Thanks for the welcome!

Thanks Lise, CorsairMac and crazycanuck, it's very nice and friendly here! It's summer here, but very wet!

Take care out there :)

tulip

11-30-2005, 03:34 PM

Real name: Juliellen (like Maryellen, but with a Julie!)

Where do you live? Washington, DC

Explanation of your handle: favorite flower

Explanation of your avatar: haven't figured that one out yet

Age (general or specific) 38

Occupation: city planner and landscape architect

Favorite bike: my red Luna

What's in your stable? here goes...1986 Stumpjumper Sport, 1989 Bridgestone MB-2, 2003 Jamis Coda Comp, 2004 Dahon Matrix (folding bike), 2005 Luna Eclipse

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? I'm no speed demon, and I don't have a bike computer to tell me how slow I'm going.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I used to race, but I was never any good at it. I'm glad to enjoy going on bike rides and seeing the world from a bike-perspective.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I guess I've repressed it.

Most memorable moment on my bike: I biked through France for one month when I was 15. I remember going up and up a hill in Brittany and coming over the peak and laid out in front of me was the most beautiful, mysterious, misty landscape that I could have imagined.

Most fun ever had on a bike? I love discovering new parts of Washington on my bike (of course, if I lived in Paris, I would like that even more)

Lise

11-30-2005, 05:19 PM

Welcome, Juliellen/tulip!

Last fall I visited my brother in DC, a town I love. I stayed at his place for a conference while he was travelling. He offered me his mtn bike to ride around when I was done learning every day. Let me tell you, the thought of having to ride back up the hill he lives on at the end of the ride kept me from ever taking the bike out at all! I'm a true flat-lander! That said, I'm envious of the beautiful trails you have right there in the city.

Ride on! Lise

Zub_Zub

11-30-2005, 10:48 PM

[QUOTE=allabouteva] It's summer here, but very wet!
[QUOTE]
Its summer here as well. Thankfully its not wet :D

margo49

12-01-2005, 06:25 AM

Most memorable moment on my bike: I biked through France for one month when I was 15. I remember going up and up a hill in Brittany and coming over the peak and laid out in front of me was the most beautiful, mysterious, misty landscape that I could have imagined.

Wow, Tulip.
I rode thru France when I was 25.
It was July and the sunflower fields were just amazing.I have never forgottten them (or the trip).
I rode the small D-roads and loved the patisseries. Which of course you can eat lots of when you are biking. None of those energy bars and isotonics in those days. Wasn't I lucky :D

CorsairMac

12-01-2005, 11:21 AM

Welcome to the board tulip! you got a LUNA????!!!!! *wipes drool off keyboard* I just keep thinking one of these days I'm gonna make the drive up to Santa Fe and get me one too! ;)

liksani

12-02-2005, 04:54 PM

Real name: Belinda
Where do you live? San Jose, CA

Explanation of your handle: from one of my main characters on this MUD I used to play [basically an online text based role playing game]

Explanation of your avatar: no avatar :(

Age (general or specific) 22

Occupation: Test Engineer

Favorite bike: haven't biked long enough to know :confused:

What's in your stable? Specialized Sirrus 2005

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? don't have a road bike nor anything to gauge speed with

Another picture of yourself or your ride? don't own a camera anymore currently

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: no clue :( I'm forgetful

Most memorable moment on my bike: biking with a friend along a trail going at a pace so we could actually talk to each other; was fun being able to drag a friend along with me

Most fun ever had on a bike? biking from the piers to across the Golden Gate Bridge to Sausilito with some people from work

CorsairMac

12-05-2005, 09:35 AM

Welcome to the board Belinda! When we were kids my parents read us a poem titled "Belinda and the Dragon". Still one of my favorite poems of all times! and I have to ask: is Liksani elvish?

Nice to meet you and hope to see more of you!

Lise

12-05-2005, 02:57 PM

Welcome, Belinda! I'll bet that's really cool to ride over the Golden Gate Bridge. Looking forward to getting to know you--Lise :)

liksani

12-05-2005, 06:26 PM

No Liksani isn't elvish tho that would have made much more sense. ;) Artistic liberty?

Makes me sad I can't go to wushu or bike or run or anything. Stupid sick people at work who got me sick. :(

luv'nAustin

12-05-2005, 06:33 PM

Real name: Karri Kurtzweil

Where do you live? Austin, Texas

Explanation of your handle: I have only lived in Austin for sixteen months and I really do love it here!

Explanation of your avatar: My son found it for me (hope he didn't steal it from anyone all ya'll know!) anyway, I love clouds and blue is my favorite color and perhaps one day I will look as good as the girl on the bike!

Age (general or specific) 43

Occupation: I have been a stay-at-home Mom for the past twenty years.

Favorite bike: The jury is still out, but wish I could say it was my camena!

What's in your stable? My newest bike is a Merlin Camena. She replaced my first road bike (a beautiful yellow Giant TCR) and was supposed to make me faster but she only slowed me down.... I also have a very old Diamond Back with mountain bike tires.

Fastest speed on a road bike? Not sure, but it was slightly over 50 mph. where? The big hill on the Dam Loop (somewhere on 2222) in Austin. when? Spring of 2005.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: No, I really don't miss hiking Camelback Mountain in Phoenix with my husband and friends.

Most memorable moment on my bike: I think it was the first time I went flying down that Dam Loop hill! Thank goodness someone prepared me a block in advance that it was ahead and how to handle such a steep descent.

Most fun ever had on a bike? Gosh, this is a hard one! I think I would have to say that it would be the time my husband I rented a tandem bike in Monterey, California and rode to Carmel. We weren't regular bikers and had never ridden tandem, but it was sooooooo much fun and we felt very proud to have ridden that route!

A little more about myself.....I have been married for 21 years and have lived in North Dakota, Minnesota, Colorado, Singapore, Colorado (again), California, Arizona, and finally Texas! I spend way too much time exercising, but it keeps me sane. I also enjoy Kundalini yoga, swimming, running (oops, that was the new latest lie....I hate running and swimming but am working on loving it) and hiking. Hiking in Arizona...especially Camelback, Squaw Peak, and the Grand Canyon! Oh, and I also hang at the gym doing weights, the eliptical machine and the stairmaster.

thinpaperwings

12-05-2005, 07:12 PM

Real name: Sara Saperstein

Where do you live? Portland, OR

Explanation of your handle: It's part of a lyric to one of the songs from one of my favorite bands, Underworld.

Age (general or specific) 23

Occupation: Biology Research Technician

Favorite bike: My very old (probably 10 or 15 ys) Univega Rover T2.7

What's in your stable? Unfortunately, the above bike is it right now. Maybe this spring I'll buy a proper road bike for my commute. I just love the way my bike fits me, and I have such great memories with it, that I can't see enjoying another bike as much. What if my Univega got jealous?

Fastest speed on a road bike? Never rode a road bike.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Actually, I'm too honest for my own good.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Last year I went on what was supposed to be a 15 or 20 mile ride with my boyfriend, around the Columbia River from I-5 to I-205 and back. We got lost, got caught in headwinds so strong that we had to pedal hard in order to barely move, and it was hailing for much of the trip. Because we missed a turn, the trip ended up being 30 miles instead of 20. My hands got so cold that when we finally got to the car, I couldn't feel them, and I had to stick my hands, one at a time, fully into my mouth to warm them up enough. I was so freezing.

Most fun ever had on a bike? When I was in High School, before I could drive, I would ride my bike up The Strand, which is a long paved trail along the beach in southern California. By the end of that summer I was doing 50 mile rides, which for me at the time, and in conjunction with my long-distance running, was a lot. I even remember waking up and taking off at 3am because I was so excited about the ride. The freedom of being able to go such distances without a car was fantastic.

More about me: I'm still pretty new to biking. Last winter I took some classes on care and maintenance, fixing flats, truing spokes, that sort of thing. I still don't have a lot of practice with it, though.

I started commuting by bike when I got my job a little over a month ago. I was biking twice a week, 7 miles each direction. Portland is such a great city to cycle-commute in. Before the bike commuting, I just rode weekend rides here and there, usually between 10 and 20 miles, depending on my fitness level. I mostly would bike on paved trails, but this past summer we went on a few mountain rides. I also enjoy running and weightlifting and playing with my Australian Shepherd.

Cheers!

CorsairMac

12-06-2005, 08:49 AM

WElcome Luv'n! Sorry to hear your new bike isn't your fav - is there a reason?? And what happened to your beautiful yellow giant? Never been to Austin but I used to live in Chandler and I would hike Squaw Peak every Sun after church. I miss the warmth of Phx and I miss that hike. Never did the Camelback - it was on my list of "things to do". I'm still hanging on to that list!!

Welcome Wings! I saw your ID yesterday and fell in love with it.......I had this vision of you on a bike with thin paper wings to help you along! I also answered your post yesterday about commuting in the cold and was wondering if you decided to give it another try?

Hope to hear more from both of you and nice to have ya'll on board!

luv'nAustin

12-06-2005, 04:03 PM

Thanks for the welcome!

My beautiful giant was my first road bike and I purchased her the week before I moved to Texas. Biking was/and is replacing the daily hikes. Except that I only ride once or twice a week and not daily as planned. Gotta learn to change that tire so that I can venture out solo.

Beauty, is in my garage hanging on a bike rack, I am afraid that I stripped her of her pedals and electronic gadgets to save a little money. Perhaps I will ask Santa for a new set of pedals this Christmas and then I will take her back out to see if we still can fly.

My camena has smaller tires and is lighter in weight. She is easier to climb hills with, but is seriously disadvantaged when it comes to speeding back down them. My typical route in Austin is very hilly and it is easy for others to fly by me down a hill and then that momentum carries them a good quarter of the way (or more) up the next hill. I know, this used to be me! And now, I am stuck pedaling like a mad woman to catch back up with them and often before I reach the top they are speeding away again down the next hill.

I also worry that I am getting weaker because it is easier to pedal up the hills. On the plus side, the ti frame is kinder to my joints and I have no more elbow or wrist pain! Speed isn't everything, is it?????

Glad to hear that you still have Camelback on that list. It is a great workout and so rewarding. I think the echo side is beautiful and I love climbing up the rocks, but I usually did the other side with my friends. I was just there over Thanksgiving and hiked as often as I could. I was really worried that I would be terribly slow, but managed to get up Squaw Peak in less than thirty minutes, only one minute off of my best time.

You and the other gals are so inspiring, I look forward to being a part of the group!

karri

froglady

12-06-2005, 11:06 PM

Real name: Rebecca (Becca)

Where do you live? Berkeley, California

Explanation of your handle: I work with the African clawed frog Xenopus laevis

Explanation of your avatar: I like frogs

Age (general or specific) 21x2 on Dec 18

Occupation: Associate Professor of Cell Biology at UC Berkeley (http://mcb.berkeley.edu/labs/heald/)

Favorite bike: purple Serotta

What's in your stable? Only purple bikes, including a beater Jamis mountain bike

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 48.5 on Pig Farm Hill

Another picture of yourself or your ride? See http://www.steephill.tv, my husband is a camera bug.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: I am descended from Quakers and we never remember our lies.

Most memorable moment on my bike: Finishing the Raid Pyrenean in the summer of 2003 with my friend Nancy.

Most fun ever had on a bike? It wasn't the Everest Challenge (http://www.everestchallenge.com/) , that's for sure, but riding in the Sierra Nevada with my friends is the most fun because it is familiar and so beautiful.

CorsairMac

12-07-2005, 10:24 AM

Welcome frog - Loved your answer to the best lie! I might have to steal that!!....and Only purple bikes? too cute! some here only have pink bikes - we should get ya'll together some time...and a purple and pink party! ;)

welcome on board and hope to hear more from you! and thanks for the holidy pixs!

arnaew

12-08-2005, 08:59 PM

Real name: Arna
Where do you live? Adelaide South Australia
Explanation of your handle: It's my name and initials

Explanation of your avatar: Oh dear. I am a dull little girl.

Age (general or specific) 50. Still can't get used to it. Shouldn't I be feeling older than this?

Occupation: Publisher

Favorite bike: Whatever gets me up a hill.

What's in your stable? Pursuit 531 Custom

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 59km Goodwood Road (4 lane arterial road) in Adelaide at 7am on a deserted Sunday morning
Another picture of yourself or your ride? Couldn't figure out how to put in the pic - if you could see it it's of me at the barriers for the Tour Down Under.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: This won't hurt darling (waxing my partner's legs).

Most memorable moment on my bike: Last year I entered the Be Active (public rider) component of the Tour Down Under. I'm not a great rider, and I'm truly bad on hills, so riding through the Barossa Valley was always going to be a challenge. But I was determined to do it for my 50th birthday present to me, and I did it, and crossing that finish line was my proudest single achievement. Had a quiet cry.

Most fun ever had on a bike? This year (2005) partner and I and kids went to France for the summer to see Le Tour and do some riding in bicycle heaven. Daughter (age 30) and I hopped on our bikes in Briancon (highest town in Europe) and screamed down through the Alps, literally. Doing around 50k (32mph?) on hairpin curves. S*it eating grins, all the way down.
__________________me at Tour Down Under :)

crazycanuck

12-09-2005, 04:53 AM

Hey Arna,

Nice to see another Aussie here...!!! Soon we''ll take over...*insert evil laugh*. Hello from Perth!!!

Don't be afraid to post, the ladies here are wonderful!

Take care

c

DeniseGoldberg

12-09-2005, 05:13 AM

...Age (general or specific) 50. Still can't get used to it. Shouldn't I be feeling older than this?

Arna -
Nope, I believe it's all about your state of mind. I suspect that in many cases remaining active keeps us young. In fact, I've had people accuse me of lying when I tell them I'm 53, saying that I couldn't be that old. I take that as a compliment... And as a celebration of turning 50, I just had to ride my bike across the United States!

Welcome to the board - happy posting & reading.

--- Denise

jobob

12-09-2005, 06:11 AM

Hi Frog. Small world, many moons ago I postdoc'd in the MCB dept at Cal, in a lab in Barker Hall. Gah, make that many, many moons ago :rolleyes:

luv'nAustin

12-09-2005, 08:42 AM

becca, loved the pictures from steephill.tv....thanks for adding the link in your post.

arna, Congratulations on your finish in the Tour Down Under!

karri

CorsairMac

12-09-2005, 09:56 AM

Welcome to the board Arna! Woohooo yet Another person we can go visit during our miserable winter months! Hope ya'll got room - we'll be showing up with our multiple layers of riding gear, bikes, dogs, cats,....maybe even some SOs and DHs. Course, ya'll can come over Here when it's winter there!! As for the 50 thing, ain't it just a number??....like 6?? ;)

Hope to hear more from ya!

RoadVixen

12-10-2005, 06:40 PM

Real name: Vicki
Where do you live? Oxford, Mississippi

Explanation of your handle: Vixen was a nickname given by a friend in about the sixth grade- has since been reconfirmed by the guys i've dated....and the road is where I most like to be!

Explanation of your avatar: from earthjustice.org ("Because the earth needs a good lawyer"- Amen)

Age (general or specific) turned 26 last Halloween (yup i'm a witch!)

Occupation: Last year law student

Favorite bike: Litespeed Ghisallo

What's in your stable? Litespeed Bella & a Fuji Nevada MTB (mine), a Masi Special Carbon & a Gary Fischer Tassajara MTB (my boyfriend Jacob's)

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? Don't know, don't have a computer- my BF says 32 mph according to his- that was a few weeks ago at Taylor MS-

Another picture of yourself or your ride?
http://us.f2.yahoofs.com/users/41aa92e0z9a7aacb6/mail/__sr_/e3ac.jpg?phA45mDBOrrRgeHG
Me and BF in Thailand

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "Yes mother, I'm still a republican..."

Most memorable moment on my bike: Riding the Natchez Trace this fall when the leaves had turned- it was nothing short of magical.

Most fun ever had on a bike? My BF and I love to get sauced and go ride around really late at night, when everyone else is asleep. It's like there is no one left on the earth but you....*sigh* :o

CorsairMac

12-12-2005, 11:17 AM

Welcome to the board Vixen - I Love your avatar! Last year Law?........which 'branch"?

RoadVixen

12-12-2005, 12:39 PM

I wish I knew....I've done a lot of employment law (not by choice, it's pretty boring) but my real interest in environmental, especially ocean/coastal. Don't know what the future will hold for me, I worked in New Orleans & Gulfport last summer & after Katrina, there's really nothing left. The N.O. office was a block from the Superdome & in Gulfport, our office was ON the beach. I hear both places are laying off experienced attorneys left and right. But, my mom and I discussed it the other night & we both place a lot of stock in the whole "all things happen for a reason" bit....Neither of the jobs were something I was just nuts about, and had things worked out I would have felt obligated to take the job (student loans are pretty good incentive). Now my BF and I (he's in law school w/ me) are thinking we might just take off and move to Oregon or Vermont like we have been dying to do all along. We haven't been able to find any job leads yet, but hey, we don't have any kids or anything (and we've been known to happily live in a tent for 6+ weeks) so we figure we'll manage. Sorry if this was more info than you were looking for, but I'm in the middle of studying for my last exam & anything to procrastinate is insanely fun right about now....lol

jjules

12-13-2005, 03:34 AM

hi everyone :) thought id introduce myself been lurking a bit...

Real name: Jules

Where do you live? Brisbane, Aust.

Explanation of your handle: D'oh..my name :)

Explanation of your avatar: i'll get there...

Age (general or specific) 27

Occupation: stay-at-home Mum. before the birth of my son i was a swimming instructor.

Favorite bike: haha they say love the one your with. i have a Raleigh MTB.

What's in your stable? My only baby,..shes on my new Tacx magnetic trainer right now.

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: cant recall, theres been so many :rolleyes: j/k :D

Most memorable moment on my bike: dh and i have had some great times bashing abt on gravel tracks near home. i love the sunshine, fresh air, and the feeling of empowerment that your strength and bike combined make you feel :D

Most fun ever had on a bike? a regular ride into teh heart of town and back that dh and i would do and be totally competitive the whole way :D good times.

A little more about myself.....i have a 16 mos old son who i adore .. been married 4 years to a wonderful man. have a keen interest in fitness and health and considering studying nutrition/dietetics sometime soon. i love the gym, cardio, weights, classes, pilates, yoga, swimming, running, and
r i d i n g :D i also like cooking, knitting, gardening and of course my computer :D

CorsairMac

12-13-2005, 09:16 AM

welcome to the board Jules! Love your sense of humour - and Another ozzie! which means *sigh* Another person to tease us during our winter months about just how Wonderful it is where They live! LOL (of course, when My weathers good I'm the First person to chime in!)

Biking Mama

12-13-2005, 03:23 PM

Real name: Lisa
Where do you live? Tallahassee, FL

Explanation of your handle: I'm the mother of two (5yr old daughter, 2yr old son) who loves to bike!

Explanation of your avatar: avatar?

Age (general or specific) 34!

Occupation: Stay at home mom

Favorite bike: whatever gets me outdoors and on the road

What's in your stable? Trek Pilot WSD 2005

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 31.5 on a downhill near my house

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I don't have any yet

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: Santa does exist!

Most memorable moment on my bike: The moment I fell over like a ton of bricks while rapidly breaking because I thought I got a flat...I realized just as I was coming to a stop that my feet were still clipped in!

Most fun ever had on a bike? I find something fun each time i'm out on the bike. Just the quiet, contstant challenge of the road inspires me.

CorsairMac

12-15-2005, 06:09 AM

Welcome to the board Mama! OK...so are you saying Santa Doesn't exist?? ;) and another Trekkie! *insert evil cackle here* we're taking over the world!!!
How wonderful your kids like to bike to - makes it easier to get out there and ride!!

veloputt

12-15-2005, 05:27 PM

Hi all,

I've been enjoying reading the posts over the summer since I started getting back on the bike and commuting (17 mi each way--glad there's a shower at work!). I recently starting adding my 2cents into the forums:

Real name: Susan
Where do you live? Seattle, WA

Explanation of your handle: I love cycling and golf... though the last half sometimes describes my pace! (I tried racing for a couple summers, but not my thing--great admiration for those who do!)

Explanation of your avatar: On the sidewalks in Amsterdam--just love it!

Age (general or specific): documents say 40... :eek:

Occupation: "Quality" Engineer--solving problems others create!

Favorite bike: my Mercian "King of Mercia"

What's in your stable? Mercian "King of Mercia" road bike--gorgeous steel frame w/ various Shimano drive train components/stem, Mavic hubs/rims, fizik Arione saddle (awesome!), and a classic Bridgestone RB-5--a "suspension-free" mntn bike (out to pasture for the moment). Seems rather vintage, now, but they are great rides!

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 55 mph or so coming down off a hill in Eugene, OR back in '92 or so. Most recent top speed = upper 30s commuting into work...

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I do have photos of my "baby"

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: "Oh, that's OK"

Most memorable moment on my bike: Going 55mph!

Most fun ever had on a bike? This summer = riding on the velodrome at Marymoor park--makes you ride faster and do more laps than you think you can! It was a blast!

velodrome.co.nr

12-16-2005, 01:41 AM

Real name: velodrome
Where do you live? Staffordshire, UK

Age (general or specific) 3rd April 1985
Occupation: Manage Broadband Installs at Hotels

Favorite bike: Carrera Valour 2003 and My Swinnertons Custom Track Bike

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 62mph, erm downhill near the Winking Man Climb in Leek, UK

i consider myself as more of a endurance rider on the Track
I am also really in to music and was in a highly successful band in the UK but now I've gone solo.

CorsairMac

12-16-2005, 11:55 AM

Eden

12-18-2005, 09:00 AM

Real name: Eden - really!
Where do you live? Seattle WA

Explanation of your handle: It's really my name, but amusing enough to pass as a screen name, and then I don't have to remember all of the user names I've made up for various web sites...

Explanation of your avatar: I draw my own, so its me!

Age (general or specific) 33

Occupation: Graphic designer/ photographer

What's in your stable? 2005 Fuji Provence - its a 44cm, but still has 700c wheels- it was a suprise to me too, but it works out just fine. I've head tech heads tell me there is no way to make a decent road bike this small with those wheels that could fit, but I must have a weird body, because it works out smashingly for me

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 49mph, flying down a mountain side in Spain on a loaded touring bike wheeeee

Another picture of yourself or your ride? I've attatched a couple taken this summer up at Mt. Baker

Most fun ever had on a bike? on the way down the day those two photos were taken I got to try out the super aero position that you sometimes see guys use in big races -down on the bar and everything. The road was just paved so it was super smooth, there was no traffic and it was steep and straight yipeee

velodrome.co.nr

12-19-2005, 06:31 AM

welcome to the board both Velos! (are multiple Velos Veli?) Anyway, 55 mph?? 62 mph?? are you nuts?? (where were those hills..........I'm trying to break 50 mph!! lol) Velodrome: I love some of the names you've been riding "winking man climb"......just too cute!

hope to hear more from ya'll and welcome!

ther names are genuine, its strange but true, us British :D
Yeah 62mph, was were scary but unbelieveable adrenaline rush i must be mad!! lol the hill was only 20% gradient aswell ha!

CorsairMac

12-19-2005, 11:02 AM

Welcome to the board Eden!! Saw your avatar on one of your posts and thought it was very cool, now that I know you drew it - it's wayyy beyond cool! Nice stable btw!
Nice to meet ya!

Velo: Yup, we've got some of those hills here but last time I tried to hit 50+, I had headwind the whole way down!! :( I have a friend I ride with who always "loses" me when we descend coz I and the bike aren't very big to begin with and then I lay down pretty much on the seat/toptube when I descend!

Corsair "I feel the need for speed!" Mac

veloputt

12-19-2005, 06:52 PM

Eden

12-19-2005, 09:01 PM

(yea! another Seattle-ite). Might have to pick your brain for good cycling routes--the B-G trail is good for commuting, but need to learn the good roads in the area!

Feel free to pick away! Yeah- B-G gets crowded and boring in the summer. Sounds like you might have moved up here recently? Monday women's rides from Gasworks park should start up again in the spring!

I've been hanging out at cyclingforums for a while now, but its getting booooring, almost all guys repeating the same darn conversations over and over again. I do see a few familiar "faces" here though!
:D

BikeMomma

12-20-2005, 12:51 AM

Eden, your pics are really good!

Will your team be making it down to California for any racing this year, or do you gals mainly stay up north(west)?

sorry...little OT.
-BikeMomma

Eden

12-20-2005, 08:08 AM

Thanks BikeMomma!
I probably won't go very far afield (this will be my first year!), but some of the higher cat gals get out and about. We had two or three at the cross-nats a couple weekends ago and will have one at British cross-nationals coming up.

CorsairMac

12-20-2005, 09:33 AM

Hi Corsair, thanks for the welcome--where in Alb-q do you live? I went to college in Socorro--still miss the fabulous food and sky!!

And welcome Velodrome and Eden (yea! another Seattle-ite). Might have to pick your brain for good cycling routes--the B-G trail is good for commuting, but need to learn the good roads in the area!

I live in the heights on the east side of town. College in Socorro?? didn't know there was one??? as for the food - red or green!! ;) and the sky?? Gorgeous today as always with a high predicted of 53.

veloputt

12-20-2005, 10:01 AM

Feel free to pick away! Yeah- B-G gets crowded and boring in the summer. Sounds like you might have moved up here recently? Monday women's rides from Gasworks park should start up again in the spring!

I've been hanging out at cyclingforums for a while now, but its getting booooring, almost all guys repeating the same darn conversations over and over again. I do see a few familiar "faces" here though!
:D

Great photos, Eden! Good luck w/ the team! Are you going to do road, crit or track?

I'll check out more group rides. And I will be as a fan at the races!

FYI, I was introduced to racing when I lived in Illinois about 10 years ago--very exciting, and tried some road & crits for a couple summers. I didn't train hard enough to race well :eek: since I golf a lot, too! I grew up in this area, but away to college in NM and then my "adult" life had been in Peoria and Eugene (fab place to ride), and back to Seattle in 2000, but only really started riding again last year and just scratching the surface of cycling community in the area. I commuted from Northgate to Redmond end of June thru Sept--travel for work and then days got too short and wet for me!

veloputt

12-23-2005, 04:04 PM

I live in the heights on the east side of town. College in Socorro?? didn't know there was one??? as for the food - red or green!! ;) and the sky?? Gorgeous today as always with a high predicted of 53.
Green!
And a small school--NMIMT--a mouthfull, but Tech to those crazy enough to stay there (or driven crazy by staying there?). Lots of alum now work at Microsoft (not me), and recently we had a dinner at Sante Fe Cafe in town to get a fix of about as good-as-you-can-get-outside-the-state-New Mexican food.

Have a good holiday everyone!

costarica95

12-27-2005, 04:31 PM

Real name: Stacy
Where do you live? near Sacramento, California

Explanation of your handle: I studied at the University of Costa Rica in 1995.

Explanation of your avatar: Patience, my friends...

Age (general or specific) 30

Occupation: Registered Nurse

Favorite bike: BMW. But that's a different kind of bike. I haven't found my favorite bicycle yet, that's partly why I'm here. Looking for tips on bike fit and a good LBS.

What's in your stable? Road: Marin San Marino; Dirt: Gary Fisher Mamba

Fastest speed on a road bike? where? when? 35mph, a long downhill on one of the centuries I've ridden.

Another picture of yourself or your ride? Have patience...

What is the biggest lie you've ever told: hmm, I'm not in the habit of telling big lies...

Most memorable moment on my bike: Probably that downhill going 35 mph! Unless you want a bad memory - that would be my first ever mtn bike race, where I did my first-ever superman over the handlebars maneuver, sufficiently knocking the wind out of me. Not to mention the embarrassment.:(

Most fun ever had on a bike? That same downhill - love that speed!!!