Two Wheel Blogs

I'll keep this report simple. I finally raced again. Pfoodman's Dirt Crit, week 4. The conditions were tough...muddy, slick corners, wet roots, creek crossing, wet grass. In short, a perfect Belgian cyclocross course.

A race - 20+ racers. A LOT of seriously strong firepower. Racing approximately 2/3 way back in pack. Chainsuck (which bothered me in warm-ups) hit me 3 times on the 4th lap. Once everyone got around me due to inability to pedal, I pulled the plug.

Alpine Shop (and Traci Berry) to the rescue with Gary Fisher demo bikes. I tossed my Egg Beaters onto a 19" Gary Fisher Hi-Fi Plus 29er and entered the B race. 40 racers. Got decent hole shot and seated in around 5th or 6th. Got passed and repassed several riders before serious cramps in my calves started up. Basically raced with Thrasher for last 3 laps, and since he pulled me for three laps (and my cramping) I didn't contest the finish with him. I finished 5th.

The best part of all....I never hit the deck. Even following a very close call where my bike was sideways a la dirt track racing. I turned into the slide and kept the power down. I knew if I touched the brakes I was going to be thrown into the woods (been there, done that.) I recall hearing the racer behind me yell, "Whoa! Great save, Boz!" so I'll take that as my prize for the night.

If you're in the market for a new 29er, give that Gary Fisher a serious look. Keeping in mind I rode the bike as it came off the showroom floor, it's a seriously nimble, competitive bike. Thanks to Traci and Ralph for a great evening!!!!