Spokejunkies XC

Gone?

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:57:46 +0000

Trail Reviews...Moab's Tips?

Western Pennsylvania Ride May 18-21?

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:52:40 +0000

I will be heading over to PA (North PGH area) the 17th through the 21st of May and I am looking for a ride. Any spokejunkie out there interested in putting a few miles on their bikes? I am not real familiar with any of the trails so looking for someone with some trail knowledge! Most likely want to ride Friday and or Sunday!

Wilds - Ride - Need Leader??

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:21:04 +0000

Hi Heath mentioned that the wilds is in great shape and is nicely marked for the ride this upcoming weekend - So He mentioned that we should have a ride There soon !! So I will Get a ride scheduled if someone want to commit to lead --- Dates either May 26 or 27 or June 2 or 3

if you know the trail and want to lead --- Let me know!

Vultures Knob Ride report

Mon, 14 May 2012 01:11:33 +0000

About 18 riders showed up for the vultures knob ride. We could not ask for better weather! I will have to say this trail was in the best condition I have ever seen. Kudos to the people that maintain the trail. There were some changes made that makes this trail flow so much better. Many of the riders agreed that this trail has come a long way. Vultures is BACK!!! I decided to take the rigid 29r and I am glad I did - it was perfect for this trail. 2 laps yet! Just a few blisters to show for it! What a great Day! Look for more rides at this trail...It is worth it!

Attached Thumbnails

Coming soon to my house

Sun, 13 May 2012 14:47:39 +0000

Tallboy Carbon LT

Vultures Knob - Ride May 12

Sun, 13 May 2012 14:00:41 +0000

Hi Spokejunkies! I just added a ride at Vultures Knob - Saturday, May 12. This will be a 10am Start. I will also bring with me Socks and Stickers.
If you have not been to Vultures in a while, many improvements have been done over the years and there is a downhill track as well. Come on out and check it out!!!

Vultures knob asks for donations to help support the trail - I will be making a donation on behalf of the Spokejunkies! Come on out!!!

SE Michigan riders

Mon, 07 May 2012 00:39:19 +0000

Long rides on weekends, sometimes on fridays.....This weekend we did Highland Rec and then on to Island Lake and then over to Brighton Rec where we ride all 3 sections, and finally a ride over to Poto and the infamous trail there. 103.4 miles 9:37 ride time 10:16 total. You will probably need to get dropped at Hi Rec and have transportation to pick you up at Poto. 65 miles of single track....39 miles pavement

Another ride is from Brighton Rec and over to Island lake and toen on to HI Rec and back....94 miles....8:15/9:00 45 miles of single track balance on pavement.

Long riders: respond if interested.

First Ride Report- MSP April 29

Wed, 02 May 2012 09:47:45 +0000

What a fabulous day! One of the best weather days for a "first ride" in a long time! Approximately 80 riders came out today to ride the awesome trails of Mohican State Park. The trails were in near perfect condition. A big thanks to Kent of KIms Bike Shop for reserving the Shelter and donating some Goodies to the Raffle. Thank you to the Spokejunkies that came out and supported the "Junkies". It appears that everyone had a really good ride ( except for a few mechanicals) and good time hanging out with everyone after. Many Spokejunkies were missed as they were unable to attend for various reasons. Here are some pictures from the ride!
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.3555829826917.2148419.1607875322&type=1&l=2b1f9a6dac

First ride... Route and trail details

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 01:50:28 +0000

Hello all, Hope this will help any newbies or people that have been off the bike for a while! Mohican is a long trail, although not very technical the climbing makes it very challenging. The spokejunkies have quite a few rides here throughout the year. The first ride is held at mohican due to the fact that this trail is always in the best shape early in the year. Not many people complete the full loop of 24 miles during the year let alone at the "first ride". The first ride always gets many riders and of many skill levels. We do not ride together as that is impossible with this large of a group. We break up into many smaller groups according to level. There are many bail points and you can cater the ride to what you can handle. Don't let it be a deterrence - that you are afraid of "keeping up" There are always newer riders or others that are not in "biking shape" this early in the year. There is always someone to hang with.

My route plan - seems to be popular for the first ride is: Ride to cover bridge - road up to mile 16 then head back from road at 20. This is still about an 18 mile ride...I need to get back to shelter at reasonable time. (I am thinking of my 29 rigid..just to add to my pain :-)))

Some may decide the climb at the cover bridge - others may take road - that decision can be made at the bottom by the bridge.

If anyone wants to volunteer as a sweep --- to help out newbies, please post as it would be appreciated.

At the start of the ride we will divide up - many Spokejunkies know who rides on their level so they will tend to group together - I just want to make sure that anyone who is a newbie or new to mohican is not riding alone.

I will have a walkie on me - If you have a walkie - bring it!

Remember--- Spokejunkies rides are not races...This is a social ride to get out and ride with your friends and meet other riders. No pressures!!! Its all about a good time

see you Sunday!!

ERae

First Ride Details! Food/Roll Call!

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:56:38 +0000

Just a few weeks away! The Spokejunkie's First Ride - A great way to kickoff the 2012 Riding season. We will be meeting at Mohican State Park on Sunday, April 29. Meet up at 10:30-10:45 - ride will PROMPTLY start at 11:00 AM. The Spokejunkies will meet at the Shelter (near the bathrooms) You may Park there, until it fills, then you must park across the street in the MTB Lot. As always we will split into groups - There will be many routes catered to what your lungs, legs, and brain will allow you to do!
There will be a Trail-gator after. (approx start time 3pm) You will be responsible for your own main dish (meat, etc..) but please bring something to share (side dishes, chips, desserts....) Grills will be needed, as well condiments, paper/plastic products. Please post if you will be bringing these items. If someone can commit to a veggie tray that would be nice - since that did not seem to make last years food list! As of now we have close to 50 Rsvp's on Facebook with many still not responding - Please do so, this way we can have a better idea of the turnout. At this pace this may be the biggest "first ride" yet!
Bring money! We will be having a raffle again this year with lots of goodies - A big Thanks to Kim's Bikes for contributing to this raffle. I will also be including some Spokejunkie merchandise.

Socks and stickers will also be for sale. socks are $11 for one or 2 for $20 - Get them at the first ride, as they may not last!

Lets pray that the weather will cooperate, however unless there are torrential rains the ride will be on- but will post if there is a cancellation.

Post below with any inquiries and what you may be bringing to avoid any duplication....I will be bringing my Rae Rae cookies.. that no-one can duplicate

get ready to ride!!!

E_Rae

10 miles of new trail, strongsville

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:03:34 +0000

CAMBA and the cleveland metroparks teamed up and we now have 10 miles of singletrack in the cleveland metroparks. i never thought i would see they day! the official opening will be june 17th. there will be vendors ect...

besides 2 miles at OEC this is the only mtb trail in the metroparks. there are plans for more trails if everything goes well here. they aleady love mtb'ers because we are happy to build our own trails(thanks to all that helped). now we have to be sure to keep the user conflict to a minimum. many hikers will not even think that mtb'ers are allowed on the trails.these are multi use, for hikers, runners and bikes.  be sure to follow the "24" rules : ) posted in the previous post.
the other thing is to be sure to avoid damaging the trails. the park managers will be walking the trails often to see how they are holding off. A few tire tracks on a muddy day could cause more problems then just damage to this trail,
This trail is built for all levels of riders, expect to see beginners, children,old ladies with baskets, ect...The trail will be very fast without technical features. please do not add any to this trail.  This trail is like a petri dish, the metroparks are going to be watching closely for how these trails are going to be sustainable. if it looks like there aren't problems, there are other areas already being looked at for more trails. technical stuff can come later, baby steps here.

the 10 miles are roughed in, they will need some help with finishing (if you know how) and reclaiming some of the old trials (chop up the dirt and throw leaves on it). the metroparks are putting in the bridges and doing some armoring. than thats it.  1 year 10 miles : )

Alum Creek

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:38:25 +0000

I can not make it to MSP this Sunday so I'm making up for it on Monday (30th). Arrive around noon to bike P.II, pedal to P.I, then pedal back. So if your legs aren't spent from the 24 miles of awesomeness known as MSP, come shred on Monday @ AC!! Hope to see a few peeps there.

Peace

West Branch Trail?

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 12:16:58 +0000

Good day, has anyone biked West Branch yet? Curious to know if it's open for riding & what the conditions are like? Planning on going this Friday (4/20). If anyone cares to join, post back & we can arrange a time to meet, if not, plan around 10nish.

Thanks

West Branch Trail?

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 02:56:24 +0000

24 Rules of the Trail!

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 21:29:47 +0000

24 Rules of the Trail: Commandments of Mountain Biking

There are certain rules every mountain biker should live by on the trail. Let’s run them down…

1.Pay It Forward – Tubes, quick-links, a helping hand. You’ll need it one day too.

2. You brought it out…you bring it home – No one likes a litterbug. Keep the trail clean.

3. Know your role – Fast climber? Get up front. Slow descender? Get in the back.

4. Bike worth does not equal biking ability – Everyone loves the latest and greatest…but it doesn’t increase skill.

5. Be Self Sufficient – Always bring what you need…and sometimes more.

6. Know Basic Bike Maintenance – Be able to fix your own flat…

7. Treat Other Riders Like You Would Want To Be Treated – No one likes a jackass.

8. It’s Only A Race If The Other Participants Know They Are Participating – You didn’t beat your friend on the climb if you are the only one that knew it was a race.

9. If A Rider Catches You…It Doesn’t Mean They Want You To Ride Faster – Move to the side and let the rider by. Also see #3.

10. Music While Riding Is Great…Unless You Are Oblivious – If you are going to wear earphones while riding, check around you constantly for other riders.

11.Know Your Abilities – Don’t get too far over your head.

12. Just Because You Can’t Ride It…Doesn’t Mean Others Can’t – Mountain biking should be a progression. Not all trails can be wide and groomed.

13. You Have Zero Room To Bitch If You Didn’t Work On The Trail – Try not to be a backseat driver to trail work.

14.There Is No Cure For UGI – Upgradeitius is a serious disease for which there is no cure.

15. Beware Of Rider Recommendations – The best bike for a friend may not be the best bike for you. Everyone thinks they are on the best mountain bike on the market.

16. Don’t Be “That Guy or Gal” – You know the one…the guy/gal that brags about their time on local loops and doesn’t ride anywhere else. Enjoy your ride…it isn’t a contest.

17. In Shape Does Not Equal Technical Ability – You are in shape…awesome…but that does not make you a better rider. It just makes you able to ride longer.

18. Riding Keeps You Young – Yes…that guy/gal that is twice your age will still drop you.

19. No One Looks Good In Lycra…Especially Mountain Bikers – Bring a change of clothes…lycra is not “going out” wear.

20. Mexican Food Is The Perfect After Ride Meal – Don’t know why…it just is.

21. Diversity Is A Good Thing – Different bikes, different styles, different personalities. It would be dreadfully boring if we were all the same.

22. Any Holiday Is An Excuse To Ride – Why are we riding today? Because today ends in a y.

23. Support Those That Support You – Support your local IMBA and local advocacy chapters. They do more than just work on trails.

24. Riding Is The Best Therapy – Self explanatory…

AMEN!!

Hello Spokejunkies, Old and New

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 14:49:35 +0000

Man it has been forever since I have gotten on this site. Good to see its still up and running and there still are some familiar faces. Hope to make it out to a group ride this year. Not once did I get on the bike last year. Crazy.

New Ridelist newsletter emails

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 15:29:29 +0000

We have a new ridelist newsletter email. If you would like to get emails about when and where we will be riding. Sign up for the newletter!

http://www.spokejunkies.com/ridelist/

its as easy as that. We have a list for the Ohio rides and for the Michigan rides. I promise not to give your email address to anybody, and I promise not to spam. The most you will hear from this ridelist will be once a week during peak riding season.

Sign up so you can get All the ride info for the Spokejunkies!

Mohican

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 02:39:44 +0000

How are the trails down there? Muddy slop or what?

Thanks

2012 Spokejunkie Schedule

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 01:43:35 +0000

As of now here are some scheduled rides that will take place. More rides of course, will be posted as the riding season is upon us. Keep in mind anyone can host a ride. Don't wait for one to be posted! Please contact me and we can put it on the schedule. We can have more than one ride on a weekend, and 2 can possibly be on the same day, as long as they do not conflict in proximity. I will hopefully have a Brown County weekend (Most likely in September) as part of a group trip ride this year. We will also check out the new trails at Chestnut Ridge.  All rides start at 11am Unless otherwise Posted. Always check the Site for Updates for any changes due to weather etc..

Sunday, April 29  Spokejunkie kickoff to the season "First Ride" at Mohican State Park 10:30 am
May 12  Vultures Knob 10am
June 23  Lake Hope
July 7 Eastfork
Aug 11   Westbranch State Park
Aug 25   Dillon State Park
Sept 22  Alum Creek
Oct 7   Mohican State Park

First Ride Planning

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 13:25:10 +0000

Hello, fellow Spokejunkies! Hope your winter is going fast for you - because it is for me!! Before you know riding season will be here! I am in the planning stages for the first ride.It will be as usual, at Mohican State Park. I usually just pick the date, but this year I have several dates in mind and input will be taken into consideration because we always had the first ride on a Saturday. This year I am considering Having it on a Sunday so that Kim's bikes can be part of the event, since Saturdays they have to keep the shop open. Sundays may be good for those that work on Saturdays. If we have on a Saturday I will start at 11am however a Sunday I would consdier a 10am start for those that mey have to travel a distance so getting home earlier is an option. Dates for considering:
April 14
April 14
April 29

I will be ordering Spokejunkie Socks, and will also offer a shirt for pre-order - details following!
Please Vote!
E Rae

Old School Spokejunkie videos

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 06:25:34 +0000

Here's one from the Wilds...

Mohican State Park video

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 17:55:49 +0000

Nice autumn ride at Mohican. I started from the Covered Bridge, which is a really good place to start.

Brake Squeal, New Bike!

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 01:02:32 +0000

Just picked up new ex 8 and have put about 35 miles on it. The front disc brakes are now squealing pretty loudly in non braking situations. Really Annoying! I cannot seem to get it to stop! Any thoughts?

Gary Fisher in Dayton

Sun, 12 Feb 2012 14:09:22 +0000

In case anyone couldn't make it to Dayton last night to hear Gary Fisher, I was able to get a decent recording of it on my iPod. If you want, send me a message and I'll be gald to send you the file. Its about 45 min and pretty cool. This guy just LOVES bikes and it shows.

Durango Trails

Sat, 11 Feb 2012 03:41:06 +0000

So I have my vacation plans booked for Colorado and will be in Durango at end of July for one week. Need to know which trails from reviews section are a must and any others not on there. Please note, I am coming from Ohio; so the first 3-4 days I'm out there is all acclimation process and I'm not great climber anyway. I'm not looking for any epic climbs, but willing to put in the effort if the downhill is worth it. I did Monarch Crest last time I was out there and that was awesome.

After Durango, I'll be spending a week in Carbondale. I know a spot to ride there, but any further input is appreciated. Planning on driving to Fruita at least one day from there.

Lastly, anyone looking to ride - happy to have a local guide.

Thanks for help.