tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21844289769517550872012-01-29T10:19:43.342-06:00Peeling back a corner of the universe to glimpse the utter chaos that lies behind.Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.comBlogger7701100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-22222993216487771362012-01-29T09:23:00.002-06:002012-01-29T10:19:43.353-06:00

DSCN0288 Originally uploaded by Snak ShakIt's been quiet here due partially to a creative drought and partially to the noise of life, so here's a quick update on just what's been going on... We have been house-hunting, and found what we thought was a winner in the Longfellow neighborhood of So. MPLS. Despite repeated difficulties with the seller, the offer was accepted, the inspection conducted

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-91273692482840257622012-01-18T18:01:00.001-06:002012-01-18T18:01:09.360-06:00

First WeldOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakI am taking an introduction to oxy-acetylene welding class at CAFAC and today we got to spark up the torches and fuse metal. This was the second class - the first was devoted to welding safety and how the torch works (set-up and shut-down).By the end of class I was able to form a puddle and pull or push the puddle to form a weld, but this is definitely

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-7936882238657260282012-01-10T16:21:00.001-06:002012-01-10T16:21:41.286-06:00

Stopping for a breakOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakThe temperature reached 54 degrees this afternoon and the sun was bright. It was a glorious day, particularly when you consider that it's January 10 in Minnesota. Tomorrow the low temp is supposed to be 5 degrees, so I took advantage of the unseasonable weather by getting in a 2.5 hour ride along the river. It was warm enough that the trails

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-76791671034388649842012-01-09T20:01:00.001-06:002012-01-09T20:41:21.685-06:00

People of Earth - I ask for your help in a matter of great importance (at least to me and 619 other people). I am an admin for the Flickr group "Bikebyshootings". This group is dedicated to photography from a moving bicycle. Ideally, we want photos that capture the motion, the feeling of speed and the fun of swooshing around on a bike. We have some really great photos in the group, in fact, the

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-39739062264821279372012-01-01T00:00:00.005-06:002012-01-01T00:00:01.999-06:00

Generally speaking, we are not real big on "family traditions". We generally visit who we need to during the and/or do what seems right on any given holiday. Circumstances change and we need to adapt and respond to that. One tradition we do have, however, is to draw Rune stones on New Year's Eve. For those not familiar with Runes, they are an ancient Scandinavian divination tool; sort of a

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-25452318704872609712011-12-30T21:29:00.002-06:002011-12-30T21:31:29.676-06:00

Group Shot Originally uploaded by Snak ShakRant alert: After a chance encounter with a $30.00 Rapha cotton bandana at a local purveyor of fine cycling apparel earlier today, I am still all worked up about the issue of fashion and cycling. I love good stuff. My wife assures me that I am a Taurus through-and-through. I like good quality, I appreciate craftsmanship and style. Yes, I can be vain.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-22894667267297892842011-12-29T17:00:00.001-06:002011-12-29T17:06:39.048-06:00

Today was for adventure. Lately, we've been busy buying a house, getting ready to sell our current house, going to a funeral, having Christmas and whatnot. Today's calendar was blank, so I set out on a fat-tire ramble. The trails were in really good shape, other than a little sand and patches of glare ice where the spring seeps come out onto the trail. This ice patch in the photo was so slick

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-7717180044321256392011-12-28T16:33:00.002-06:002011-12-28T16:41:30.092-06:00

Rolling Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI took advantage of the sunny warm weather to ride the Mukluk in a light jacket today. The ride took in the length of the Long Meadow Lake Trail (from the refuge headquarters to Cedar Ave. Bridge). At that point I wasn't done, so I crossed the river on the Cedar Ave. bridge and then rolled back east on the south side of the river for another four more

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-84162740939102422482011-12-26T18:02:00.001-06:002011-12-26T18:02:56.014-06:00

DSCN0271Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI have notoriously bad luck chasing found birds. It seems that everybody and their brother is seeing snowy owls this winter and I have yet to find one. I went down to Point Douglas late last week to find the long-tailed duck and was skunked on that outing. So it goes...Yesterday there was a post on MOUnet about red-headed woodpeckers in East Bethel, MN.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-34362374664828287892011-12-24T16:48:00.001-06:002011-12-24T16:48:29.542-06:00

frosted pineOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakChristmas Eve is upon us. Mine promises to be quiet and enjoyable. We'll be having a few close friends over this evening for wine, snacks and fellowship. There will be a fire in the fireplace, too.I like the quiet Christmas Eves. Christmas Day will be full of family and bustle, rest assured, but the Eve should be more of a vigil, I think.The quiet Eve

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-88900076613354655092011-12-16T21:33:00.001-06:002011-12-16T21:33:00.744-06:00

PC160033Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI flipped some cantilever brakes that were laying around in my parts drawer this evening. Somebody posted on Bike Love looking for a set of canti's to go on a winter bike he was building.I had a pair that originally came off the Cross Check. These had been in the spare parts pile for about... oh 3 years now, so I felt ready to pass them on. The only bike

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-5179845467768938312011-12-11T14:26:00.000-06:002011-12-11T14:26:05.896-06:00

We were positively deluged with a bunch of pre-programmed recordings of MN Original on the DVR this week. If you don't know, MN Original is a series on TPT that highlights a wide range of local artists (music, visual arts, everything you can think of). The Spouse was slugging through the recordings when I wondered into the room with the T.V. and saw a show about Brock Davis. Davis was exhibiting

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-80217593311948960822011-12-04T19:34:00.001-06:002011-12-04T19:34:37.159-06:00

Attaching a Flasher to a Revelate Designs BagOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakDespite my solemn vow to never again buy a saddle bag without an attachment point for a flasher, I picked up a new Revelate Designs "Viscacha" bag to go on the Mukluk. I was seduced by the quality of the bag and how good it looks on a fat bike that I kind of forgot about this point, I guess.As happy as I am with the bag,

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-5425790436929903772011-12-03T17:40:00.000-06:002011-12-03T17:40:28.623-06:00

DEEP CUSTOM, the teaser from RoyalAntler on Vimeo. Hey! A local film maker is airing a recently completed documentary on Peacock Groove and Erik Noren. Peacock Groove does very nice, very custom bicycles. I've seen a few out in the wild, including a beautiful metallic green one Noren was riding as well as the famous "Kill Bill" bike as well as several others at Minnecycle. Noren is extremely

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-63543119799714923532011-11-30T16:23:00.002-06:002011-11-30T21:17:28.274-06:00

Here's the Muk with pedals. I am glad I held out for the pedals I wanted on this bike. They look really good on there and seem like a very nice set up. They are grippy as hell, that's for sure. The maiden voyage was short, but tomorrow I'll take this unit along the Mighty Minnesota for a more suitable test ride. Woot!!

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-19996721001638666952011-11-29T20:10:00.000-06:002011-11-29T20:10:35.670-06:00

The Mukluk is here. I picked it up this morning and it's lovely. Unfortunately, I forgot to talk pedals with the shop and they didn't have anything suitable in stock when I was there. Not a problem - I have a 20% off coupon from the Big Local Bike Shop so I figure I can find a set of decent MTB pedals there without much hassle, right? Nope! Big Local Bike Shop had basically nothing suitable on

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-4694949415997048462011-11-28T18:28:00.003-06:002011-11-29T18:46:27.017-06:00

Spooky Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI grabbed my binoculars and went looking for owls this morning. I ended up at a place that's been productive in the past for me somewhere near Shakopee. Unfortunately, this morning there seemed to absolutely nothing happening on the owl front (or with any wings of the air for that matter). It was chilly and very quiet, with only a few Chickadees chattering

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-8265898120845137662011-11-27T20:20:00.000-06:002011-11-27T20:20:30.896-06:00

It's been a hectic couple of weeks. Sunday night finds me exhausted, and potentially fighting off a cold or something. Nevertheless, I am glad to be home and eager to re-focus. The Emergency Medical Response course work is now successfully completed. There are two new cards in the wallet (EMR and Professional Rescuer CPR) and new knowledge tucked into my little brain. Hopefully I'll be able to

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-66438716076460535262011-11-18T21:00:00.001-06:002011-11-18T21:00:23.998-06:00

Mukluk 2Originally uploaded by 3-16Some men buy sports cars to nurse them through mid-life crises; others take up with younger women. I apparently buy strange specialized bikes...I'll be adding a Salsa Mukluk to the stable here shortly. The bike was more happenstance than a calculated search-and-acquire effort, and a small measure of luck helped to make this happen. Thanks to my genetics and

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-77423057357764130822011-11-14T17:31:00.000-06:002011-11-14T17:31:18.290-06:00

Well, the trial separation between the Rawland and I ended late this afternoon. I put the bike in the basement after some frustrations with it back at the end of June and bombed around on the LHT most of the season. Lately, I've been experiencing some fat-tire lust, though. The quickest, cheapest option was to haul out the Rawland and reconfigure it for fat-tire fun. There was some

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-77092841216970017792011-11-10T15:32:00.003-06:002011-11-10T22:35:15.060-06:00

Since I already have a beard and a stubborn potbelly, I decided it's high time for a tricycle recumbent! This will be perfect for riding down the middle of the Greenway at 9 MPH in every bit of Hi-Viz clothing I have. Suh-weet! Okay - that's not all entirely true... I do have a Sun Trike, but it's here only temporarily. This little gem is going to a sister-in-law with some physical issues that

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-52245491499190169222011-11-10T10:33:00.000-06:002011-11-10T10:33:10.848-06:00

With the weather turning colder, winter bike projects seem to be lining up like Prius' outside a yoga studio. I acquired a Woodchipper bar from the gentlemen at HCHQ and will begin make the Rawland into a true Monster Cross bike next week. The trail separation from the Rawland and the sale of the Marin mountain bike earlier this year leads me to kind of miss an off-road bike, so the bar-swap/fat

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-19918313556142317632011-11-06T20:12:00.001-06:002011-11-06T20:12:12.557-06:00

Fat Bike CrewOriginally uploaded by 3-16I find I am tempted once again to get a Fat Bike. About 3 years ago I bought a second-hand Pugsley, so I have experienced these things before and kind of know what I am doing. That said, I ended up selling the Pug after a year or two because I wasn't really riding it that much. I found the bike to be a little too specialized and was frustrated with the

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-14567871495767159552011-11-02T17:31:00.001-05:002011-11-02T20:33:14.238-05:00

Old Clanky got it's final upgrade this afternoon. I finally got around to installing some new Tektro long-reach brakes on this bike. I've had the brakes kicking around for a few months now, but never got around to the project of changing the old brakes out until today. The stopping power with the Tektro's is a big improvement. The original brakes were not really what I would consider "brakes".

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-40554771712031003492011-10-27T09:54:00.000-05:002011-10-27T09:54:05.114-05:00

How about a dance-off on BMX bikes?

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-42240930681825714762011-10-23T15:11:00.000-05:002011-10-23T15:11:06.608-05:00

Since leaving the working world this summer, I've been decompressing and trying to find some sort of 2.0 release of myself. The concept is to hit the existential "reset" button and then keep what I like, dump what I don't like or isn't helpful, and make the second half of my life better than the first. This is not exactly a quick process. It takes some discernment and trial and error, but slowly

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-18237744761363731592011-10-18T20:27:00.000-05:002011-10-18T20:27:35.086-05:00

Dear Mr. Fantasy, play us a tuneSomething to make us all happy.Do anything to take us out of this gloomSing a song, play guitar. Make it snappy...

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-21648602959025011942011-10-11T19:24:00.002-05:002011-10-11T20:40:20.978-05:00

This corporate miscue is using up a lot of one's and zero's on the interweb tonight, but it's so egregious that I will re-post it. Thanks to League of American Bicyclists for the source information. GM Blunders onto Campus If you are a student looking to add tens of thousands of dollars of long term debt, care little about the environment, and want to lump two tons of steel around campus while

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-60267875493663422762011-10-11T18:28:00.000-05:002011-10-11T18:28:08.271-05:00

I see that my last post on this blog was a hissy-fit rant back on October 5 about the lack of response to bike parking. The co-author let me know that it's time to cleanse the palate of that unpleasant after-taste with a newsy current events post, after all, we've been busy on a number of fronts, so pardon the long post... In late September I got a great opportunity to assist with the Fall

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-82955443454208951402011-10-05T19:50:00.001-05:002011-10-05T19:50:48.141-05:00

Faithful Readers will know that I have been badgering the merchants at the 48th St. and Chicago Ave. node for improved bike parking for almost a year now. As of this writing, exactly zero new bike racks have been installed. EVERY TIME that I go to Townhall Tap I leave a "I arrived here by bicycle" card with my check and harangue the staff about bike parking (or lack thereof). Every time I get

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-66667660203849173732011-10-04T18:27:00.000-05:002011-10-04T18:27:37.801-05:00

This video from the Portland Water Bureau illustrates some of the blind-spot issues that truck/bus drivers face with not just cyclists but all vehicles. Yes - the sound is less than Dolby Surround Sound and it's a little stilted, but the content is good, people. I especially like this video (which is from the link I embedded in today's earlier post) because it features in-the-cab video of what a

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-74587348900358577542011-10-04T07:43:00.001-05:002011-10-04T18:09:04.966-05:00

The trucks and buses we encounter on the streets have significant blind spots that make it impossible for drivers to see vehicles (including bicycles) around large areas of the vehicle. This can create dangerous situations for cyclists who may be unaware of the large "No-Zone" on these vehicles. This Saturday, Twin Cities cyclists can can learn about these blind-sports and how to ride safely

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-48930025853354344282011-10-03T21:50:00.001-05:002011-10-03T21:50:43.316-05:00

joe not so tough baker parkOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakToday was absolutely perfect for a Fall color ride. We circumnavigated Baker Park Reserve with our folders and only saw a handful of other people out there.It was lovely.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-88675948652894912122011-10-02T21:20:00.000-05:002011-10-02T21:20:58.944-05:00

This afternoon, the Minneapolis Bicycle Coalition (MBC) held it's first (as far as I know) organized ride. The Joy Ride was created to bring diverse cycling sub-groups together to simply celebrate riding our bikes around the City. After all, even though we might have different styles or reasons for driving our bicycles, we all enjoy it, so why not do a group ride on a lovely Fall day. I had the

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-12182693719800129852011-09-27T20:35:00.001-05:002011-09-27T21:30:19.101-05:00

Q: How is sewing like playing piano? A: It's something I want to be able to do it, but don't I want to learn how to do it. A couple of years ago, I lucked into a sewing machine. I met a couple that were cleaning out her Mother's house after she had passed away, and one of the things they were selling was her sewing stuff. Through that connection, I scored an older Viking-Husqvarna 6430 sewing

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-2163439314903074672011-09-25T20:54:00.002-05:002011-09-25T21:05:36.466-05:00

Lake 23 Originally uploaded by Snak ShakWe set off in search of Autumn today. West on Highway 12 to Sibley State Park and the Glacial Lakes Trail. We packed the folding bikes and headed to Spicer, MN where had a small picnic lunch before our ride. We explored Green Lake and Spicer as well as New London and the rail corridor that now hosts this trail. The day was cool but the sun was warn -

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-10093314292706919172011-09-21T21:11:00.000-05:002011-09-21T21:11:31.581-05:00

Through a fortuitous series of circumstances, I had the chance to assist on a Traffic Skills 101 course this past weekend. I had volunteered to assist on another TS-101 course in Rochester that ended up getting canceled, so this was my first real TS-101. Luckily, I was able to assist an experienced LCI with this course, so I had some technical back-stopping, but that said, I was given a lot of

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-39644557561621848282011-09-21T19:03:00.000-05:002011-09-21T19:03:06.325-05:00

Surly uncorked a snarky sticker at Interbike this year that reads "JUST BECAUSE WE BOTH RIDE BIKES DOESN'T MEAN WE ARE FRIENDS". I like that sticker because it kind of reinforces the snarky branding Surly has mastered but also, there's more than a grain of truth to it. In cities (such as ours) with a large slice of the population riding bikes at least somewhat regularly, it's inevitable that

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-262926417613824842011-09-14T21:26:00.000-05:002011-09-14T21:26:22.520-05:00

Big News! I am co-teaching a Traffic Skills 101 course this weekend over at Mississippi Market. The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota link has all the details, but we'll be covering need-to-know material for novice to advanced riders that want to be more comfortable and confident riding in traffic. You can register at the link if you are interested in participating, or scan the BAM site for

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-46970366604230854942011-09-14T00:10:00.000-05:002011-09-14T00:10:29.641-05:00

It turns out that discernment is a difficult skill to master, yet it's sometimes just what we need.  I think a very human and understandable response to the hard work of identifying and pursuing The Future That We Want is to fill our time with a shit-load of little day-to-day activities. After all, action can't be procrastination, right?  At this point, I am not so sure. I think it's actually a

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-46749227443895886002011-09-12T21:01:00.001-05:002011-09-12T21:01:32.599-05:00

Minnecycle Flyer 2011Originally uploaded by AthenaBikesMinnecycle is back!I made it to the very first Minnecycle and missed the second, but rest assured that I will be there for this one. If you are not hip to the scene, Minnecycle is a wonderful show put on by our local Minneapolis bike frame builders. They use the event, at the Vine Arts building just off the Greenway, to showcase some of the

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-41319875981372353012011-09-05T20:49:00.001-05:002011-09-05T20:49:06.513-05:00

SulphursOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakSchool starts tomorrow for a lot of kids, but some in my neighborhood have been back already for a week. I, too had a "school starts tomorrow" day. Not really school in the traditional sense for me, though. I have a one-day First Aid/CPR/AED class at Red Cross HQ tomorrow, so I've got to get up, pack my lunch and ride down there. That's as close to a

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-20793688343316451122011-09-03T19:07:00.001-05:002011-09-03T20:02:41.939-05:00

This morning the most stalwart and dedicated TC3-SAS riders set out on a mission to circumnavigate the Capitol City*. The route took us more or less on the St. Paul Grand Rounds but we did it one better by going the long-way around Lake Phalen. For an added challenge, we tossed in in a few wrong turns, rode through the Wabasha Bridge construction zone twice and ascended a stairway from hell to

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-38104541124976974702011-09-02T20:41:00.001-05:002011-09-02T20:41:16.573-05:00

BromptonOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakI've been enjoying riding my folding bike to restaurants and bringing it in with me. I feel more smug than a Prius driver as I collapse the bike down into a little package and walk in with it like this is normal thing to do.Tonight we rode over to Famous Dave's in Linden Hills for a end-of-the-week treat. To my surprise, the bike rack that they normally

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-42496289666934467662011-09-02T00:01:00.001-05:002011-09-02T00:01:00.790-05:00

I mentioned previously that Shawn and April of Portland's Urban Adventure League are pedaling to Minneapolis for a short visit on their cross-continent tour. Since then, they have kept pedaling and the staff behind this blog have all been busy planning stuff... I can now happy to report that Midtown Freewheel will be hosting a bike touring workshop that Shawn will be putting on while they are in

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-42260029214047818412011-09-01T20:00:00.002-05:002011-09-01T20:04:07.932-05:00

Dude, where's my bike lane? Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI conducted a stealthy, black-ops reconnaissance mission this morning (and by "stealthy, black-ops" I mean that I didn't tell anyone about it and I was not paid) in order to ground-truth a group ride route I am planning for a few friends (more to come on that front). During my self-propelled mission, I chanced upon the mother of all

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-72323914070805408122011-08-31T07:09:00.004-05:002011-08-31T07:17:40.747-05:00

ernest manning Originally uploaded by lowercase meOn Saturday at 9:00 AM, the intrepid cyclists of TC3-SAS will be circumnavigating St. Paul. The route will bring us a few hills, but we'll face these confidently with our planetary gearing, our muscles and our wit. We will meet at The Cross and have a breakfast stop planned at Swede Hollow Cafe, so bring a lock and some money if you want to join

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-53193914582392047292011-08-26T18:19:00.000-05:002011-08-26T18:19:58.839-05:00

Friday gifted me with a solo ride and a new trail to explore. Well, kind of a new trail, I think. I saw a regional trail when I was in Excelsior a few weeks ago and could not place what it was, so I checked a map afterward and discovered the Lake Minnetonka LRT (LM LRT) trail. I think I actually rode on a small portion of this that I blundered into once in Hopkins, but I never really followed it

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-68057586856639398562011-08-24T20:00:00.003-05:002011-08-26T20:16:20.749-05:00

Mural Tag Originally uploaded by Snak ShakAfter nearly two months of not going to work (in fact, I have not even worn pants in two months), I had a work flash back yesterday. It all started innocently enough. Molly has been collecting a list of restaurants and bars with good outdoor seating. What could be more pleasant during my time off than dining alfresco with my sweetie, after all? We've

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-40208551331311919312011-08-22T20:50:00.001-05:002011-08-23T07:30:09.302-05:00

One of my internet pen-pals is coming to town! Shawn and April of Urban Adventure League are well into a cross-county tour, traveling from Portland, OR (or "No. 2" as well call that City) and have pedaled through Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton and the Canadian prairies so far. The final destination is... east. I don't really know how far they are planning to go, but I suspect it's as far as their

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-53691210577865059532011-08-21T21:46:00.001-05:002011-08-21T21:46:01.464-05:00

DSCN0223Originally uploaded by Snak ShakIt's taken me awhile to decompress from my work reality. From the time I left work (July 1) until now, I've been kind if disinterested in getting "back on the horse" for whatever that means and filled my days with riding, swimming in lakes, doing house projects and generally bumming around.Nothing really tangible yet on my so-called "next steps", however.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-46483320966354189592011-08-17T21:16:00.001-05:002011-08-17T21:16:31.427-05:00

50 yard .22 caliberOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakOne of the the things I resolved to do with my Liberation from Labor time was to delve into interests and hobbies that I've either fallen away from or never quite found the time to pursue.There's a very long list of these that includes such things as:- Knitting;- Welding;- Construction/handyman skills;- Sailing;- Drawing and other visual arts;-

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-9512429538676032532011-08-14T21:59:00.003-05:002011-08-15T08:35:58.831-05:00

An Omen Originally uploaded by Snak ShakDuring my drive to and from Central Wisconsin this weekend, I spent a little too much time listening to podcasts. If I have one thought-leader I follow, it's James Howard Kunstler. I listen to his Kunstlercast podcasts pretty regularly, and although he can be a little strident at times, I almost never disagree with him on the basics of his premises. One

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-3518982576125332752011-08-14T21:22:00.000-05:002011-08-14T21:22:55.999-05:00

This weekend I had a short out-of-town trip to Central Wisconsin for a family function (more on that later). I knew that I would have some free time and saw this a potential opportunity to fit in two of my favorite pass-times: cycling and bird watching. I have this snazzy new folding bike begging for adventure, so it came along on this trip. Minimally, there is a 4.5 mile trail around a lake

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-32294160335034594782011-08-09T23:05:00.002-05:002011-08-09T23:32:26.004-05:00

Pardon the long post, but there's a lot to tell here... Faithful readers will know that I am undergoing a "Life Change".  I've posted previously about the peculiar human instinct to re-arrange the furniture in times of change. Apparently, that restlessness spills over into other areas as well... In the past month or so, I have bought and sold more bikes than in the past three years. My

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-18158316837987713542011-08-08T21:19:00.002-05:002011-08-08T21:19:58.123-05:00

More to come...

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-59504985139161911772011-08-07T21:11:00.001-05:002011-08-07T21:11:44.613-05:00

MushroomsOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakI sat in on a meditation group this morning. This was my first foray into organized meditation. Oh, sure, I've dabbled in contemplative prayer and attended some Quaker meetings for worship (who hasn't?), but I've never gone to a meditation class, per se.It was interesting. I have long been aware that my brain skips around in dizzying non-sequiturs that can

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-39451060431038729132011-08-05T07:30:00.006-05:002011-08-05T07:30:04.584-05:00

When I was in second grade, I stopped learning. Specifically, I stopped learning anything that was being taught on a black board. That includes things that matter, like math and reading. By third grade, I ended up in special ed, or whatever they called programs for developmentally disabled kids back in the early '70's. I found myself in a small, windowless room, working with a guy who wore a

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-41435198058169280782011-08-04T19:50:00.002-05:002011-08-04T19:53:05.141-05:00

Haybales Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI've been liberated from labor for a month now and as the line from "Office Space" goes, "I wouldn't same I am missing work". In fact, I feel pretty good. Ironically, what I miss most about not working is what many people probably like least - the commute. My commutes were physical and gave me experiential insight into myself and human behavior in

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-10303859920818485292011-08-02T13:00:00.001-05:002011-08-02T13:00:03.117-05:00

Yesterday marked two anniversaries, of sorts. First, 4 years ago on August 1, the I-35W bridge collapsed into the Mississippi River. Although I was not personally involved in this disaster, it was kind of traumatic for me. Yesterday, the City dedicated a memorial to the people that were killed in that calamity ( "calamity" or disaster are the words I can think of at the moment - there's no F'ing

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-42817322245583857132011-08-02T11:05:00.000-05:002011-08-02T11:05:05.879-05:00

We had a great ride on Sunday. Two new riders showed up, including one that traveled from Wisconsin! The complete report is over here. The route totaled out at about 23 miles, which was plenty long enough given the humidity. It was probably closer to a 30 mile day factoring in the ride over to the start and back. An added bonus to this sortie was that I was able to connect up with a fellow TC3-

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-16643651550265460212011-07-30T14:30:00.003-05:002011-07-30T15:54:45.869-05:00

The Twin Cities 3-Speed Adventure Society will be riding from the train depot at Minnhaha Falls park to the State Fair Grounds (the link is a map if you are hazy on where this is). We plan to roll out at 9:00 AM, and we'll be stopping for food and refreshment at the Finnish Bistro as well, so bring a lock and some $$$ for goodies. The purpose of this ride is 1.) pure enjoyment, and 2.) to show

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-86530378529204907682011-07-25T20:07:00.002-05:002011-07-25T20:07:45.761-05:00

Whoosh Originally uploaded by Snak ShakThe write-up on the Southside Sprint crit ran today on Cycle Twin Cities. Here is a link to that post.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-71408516419263729252011-07-24T21:20:00.001-05:002011-07-24T21:20:48.413-05:00

Southside SprintsOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakThe full write-up will be on Cycle Twin Cities in the near future, but I'll share a photo between now and then.This was a fun event. I hope this becomes an annual race!

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-65601900214056746592011-07-23T23:57:00.001-05:002011-07-23T23:57:17.085-05:00

The CrossOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakDo what you must to prepare yourself, because next weekend, the Twin Cities 3-Speed Adventure Society shall ride again next weekend. We are currently hard at work in our top secret research facility planning a ride that will be worthy of this illustrious group. A dash of local history, celebration of planetary gearing and unswerving commitment to sensible

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-14147570183431871162011-07-20T16:52:00.001-05:002011-07-20T19:36:53.400-05:00

I am not a big believer in reincarnation. It's not my culture and it's not something I am particularly interested in, either. I am not sure I agree with the premise that we each get sent back a few times or more until we get things right, although I will admit that I have met some people that definitely have their shit together a lot more than most other people. I am currently reading "Years of

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-140112492939593292011-07-18T17:56:00.000-05:002011-07-18T17:56:50.493-05:00

With the heat so God-awful unbearable, I stayed off the bike today and instead consumed hydrocarbon-based fuels and took myself up to a rifle range I recently joined for some sweaty target practice this afternoon. Over the weekend, I purchased a scope for .22 rifle and installed that last night when I got home (no - I have no idea what I am doing here, more on that later...) so I was eager to

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-88256483922646095242011-07-18T10:41:00.000-05:002011-07-18T10:41:50.896-05:00

We have been beset by weather that rivals Southeast Asia here is the City of Lakes. We had record humidity and a heat index of well over 100 degrees yesterday and today as much the same. Last night, the National Weather Service measured atmospheric moisture and found almost 2.15 inches of preciptable water in the air. That's about 200% more than normal for mid-July and not far from the highest

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-70025897456056494892011-07-15T21:19:00.002-05:002011-07-15T21:22:22.284-05:00

Water's Kinda High Originally uploaded by Snak ShakWe got almost 2.5 inches of rain at the house today. This on top of rain yesterday and last night as well. The rain has had me bottled up a little more than I would like, but we have gotten a number of things crossed of the to-do list, so at least I am making good use of the time. Today marks the second week of not working. The first week felt

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-17815529673788906582011-07-11T21:26:00.001-05:002011-07-11T21:38:33.041-05:00

As Faithful Readers will already know, I am a contributor to the Cycle Twin Cities website. We are trying a new feature on Cycle Twin Cities that I am very excited about. It's called Ask the LCI. This a "Dear Abby" style column where we will be addressing Twin Cities cycling problems such as bad intersections, confusing laws or misinformed drivers. We hope that cyclists (and drivers) will submit

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-14944745283289960822011-07-10T07:33:00.000-05:002011-07-10T07:33:23.130-05:00

We poked around the low trails next to the Mississippi River yesterday and found them to be passable and lovely. It's been so wet this year and the river levels have been so high that a lot of the trails in Hidden Falls Park and Crosby Farm have been inundated with water and/or flood debris. The guys on Fargo's had no problem with the sand and mud. The guys on the LHT's and Kabuki were just fine

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-73646484794470254692011-07-08T06:52:00.001-05:002011-07-08T06:52:58.101-05:00

Keen SPD CleatOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakI gave myself a little scare yesterday...Yesterday I had a bike rodeo event I was assisting with over at the U of M, so rode the LHT over to the St. Paul campus early in the morning. That bike has some flat/SPD pedals on it for maximum versatility, which I think will be handy, especially for teaching.Now that it's finally summer, I've been wearing my

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-38453727435769232642011-07-06T09:59:00.000-05:002011-07-06T09:59:45.918-05:00

After returning from a trip to my parent's over the 4th of July weekend, I was eager to get out and try the new bike, so I set my sights on the Dakota Trail. I have ridden this before, but the trail was extended to Mayer, MN this year. A friend had ridden it last week and piqued my curiousity, so I loaded the LHT and drove out to St. Boni to sample the trail. The full write-up is at Cycle Twin

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-77051932949558522782011-07-04T20:16:00.002-05:002011-07-04T20:43:40.244-05:00

Mandolin Originally uploaded by Snak ShakA few weeks ago I signed myself up for mandolin lessons. I've had a mandolin for years now, and can play a few songs on it, but I've never really gotten to a level that might be described as "proficient". I am quite pleased with how quickly my right hand came back into form - my attack and pick control is really better than it should be give, given how

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-51358595670202662702011-07-01T18:45:00.002-05:002011-07-01T19:31:14.754-05:00

New Bike Day! Originally uploaded by Snak ShakSo... I walked into the bike shop this morning looking for new cork grips for the 3-speed and walked out with a new Long Haul Trucker. This is not quite the impulse buy that it seems to be. I've been toying with the idea of a new bike for a few months now. The impetus (and by impetus, I mean "excuse") is that I need a multi-geared bike that's

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-68391372720287300182011-06-29T20:33:00.000-05:002011-06-29T20:33:12.674-05:00

As some may know, I registered for League Certified Instructor (LCI) training recently. The training was held this weekend. I wrote up a first-person account of my experience that ran on Cycle Twin Cities today. I am linking to it here as well because some may not be following that site. It was quite an experience and I am really glad I did it. With any luck, I'll be assisting at a bike rodeo as

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-23584855328956345132011-06-29T20:27:00.001-05:002011-06-29T20:27:23.617-05:00

Bikes and BridgesOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakApparently, whenever people go through major life changes they rearrange the furniture.That's holding true at our house. The TV went up-stairs last week and a recliner followed it up there shortly afterward (much less T.V. as a result - good idea, there). In the living room, the couch moved a bit, and the chair and coffee table have been redeployed

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-75587815614317733432011-06-28T21:20:00.003-05:002011-06-28T21:50:02.942-05:00

Sunsetting Originally uploaded by Snak ShakSo, I packed up my office today and was surprised to see that after a little more than 5 years in my current office, all of my personal effects fit easily into three paper boxes. The amount of recycled office paper was staggering, however. There was art, too, so that added to the pile of stuff. A large Larry Welo print (Vanishing Point) that I have had

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-88947201654947783082011-06-26T21:27:00.000-05:002011-06-26T21:27:25.352-05:00

On the way back from my LCI class this afternoon at around 4:00 or so, I witnessed a pretty serious bike crash on Summit Ave. near MacAlister. I was riding back from Selby-Dale on Summit Ave. and caught up to a group of four college-age riders heading west on Summit somewhere west of Ayd Mill Road. I tucked in behind them and slowed down rather than passing, because they were a little bunched up

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-17481372017947108442011-06-23T19:14:00.004-05:002011-06-23T19:25:25.703-05:00

Guard Donkey Originally uploaded by Snak ShakAs frequent readers will know, I am staring down the barrel of a Significant Life Change. I am also a contributor to one or two other blogs, so I've been giving some thought to editorial direction of this blog. The bottom line is that after ruminating on this for awhile, I'll be posting Twin Cities-specific cycling content on Cycle Twin Cities (that

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-73227281831660059072011-06-23T18:54:00.000-05:002011-06-23T18:54:20.598-05:00

So, I sprung for a snazzy new Garmin GPS cycle computer about two weeks ago and have been playing with it on my recent rides. It's actually not all that fancy as these things go. I don't have cadence (I know my cadences without being told, thanks) and I don't have a power meter. I just want basic speed, elevation, time, etc. and this Garmin 500 Edge covers those bases nicely. I love that I get

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-15134919275189891632011-06-22T15:44:00.001-05:002011-06-22T15:44:10.135-05:00

Who's up for joining me to spend a Sunday watching bike racing within blocks of my secret base of operations? Cycle Twin Cities ran this article yesterday on a Criterium coming to South MPLS in July, so I am linking to it rather than re-posting, but click it because this event is worthy of your support.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-8377957273904369702011-06-22T14:05:00.001-05:002011-06-22T14:05:19.765-05:00

Close to Home, NowOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakAs I round the corner into my last week of work, I am already moving into some non-work related "next life" projects that I have been keeping "on hold" but can now move forward on.Last night I was inducted in a local Sportsman's club (aka "gun club") and will be honing my skills at target pistol and rifle this summer. There's the option of

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-24829563438671258342011-06-18T21:28:00.000-05:002011-06-18T21:28:17.148-05:00

The intrepid riders of TC3-SAS gathered for an exploration of the quiet trails leading to St. Paul this morning. We had a heavy rain the night before, so the world was wet and fragrant as I rode to the meet up spot this morning at about 8:30. I was feeling exuberant enough to snap a rare overhead-panda on the way there. Four other riders joined me for an amble to St. Paul. This route is a

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-52083050786795448822011-06-16T22:45:00.000-05:002011-06-16T22:45:47.550-05:00

This just in... I got back from an evening meeting tonight to find this little gem from Singular HQ waiting for me in the in-box: Hi Joe, No problem to ship you an xs peregrine from the uk. Doesn't work out too badly as you don't have to pay sales tax. I am away at the moment for a week but will drop you a line next thurs when I'm back. Best regards,SamHow awesome is that? Despite being on

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-49311532745555245522011-06-16T18:30:00.005-05:002011-06-16T18:30:00.362-05:00

It's been a frustrating day to be a consumer. I have been fending off a case of bikelust for awhile now and finally put feelers out on the possibility of scoring a new Singular Peregrine. I figure now is the perfect time for a new bike since I'll be having a bit more time for cycle adventures. Alas, I would require an extra small frame in the Singular geometry. The LBS has advised me that they

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-88721616989753715982011-06-16T11:09:00.001-05:002011-06-16T11:09:18.742-05:00

Astronaut TrainingOriginally uploaded by Snak ShakWe have got to get back on the stick and re-start our cat trailer training program. The weather has been so sketchy this Spring that this project has been way-layed, but Coltrane and I will have to pick this up in the coming days and weeks.Our ultimate goal will be a ride around Lake Nokomis, I think, but we'll have to work up to that one step at

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-17535487283732165832011-06-15T21:09:00.003-05:002011-06-16T06:13:07.320-05:00

1973/74 Raleigh Sports Originally uploaded by (cobrabyte)People of Earth: There will be not one, but TWO Twin Cities 3-Speed Adventure Society rides this weekend. Yes, two rides. Count 'em. Two. The Saturday ride will be the more challenging of the two; we shall meet at the Princess Depot (aka Minnehaha Falls train station) at 9:00 AM. The route will be reprise of my early Spring Flood Ride,

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-20166200439292387802011-06-14T18:27:00.002-05:002011-06-14T18:30:21.448-05:00

Smile! Originally uploaded by Snak ShakOn June 30, I will be leaving full time employment to pursue my interests. Note that I say "my" interests and not "other interests". I am fortunate... no... I am blessed to have this opportunity. I have had a great career in My Chosen Field and done very well, but after more than 23 years of the same thing, I am seriously ready for a change. I have been

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-45976551922563588092011-06-09T22:12:00.000-05:002011-06-09T22:12:00.197-05:00

Even the most well-intentioned of things can end up leaving greasy black smudges across the clear blue sky now and then.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-89210938937447935592011-06-08T17:47:00.002-05:002011-06-08T17:52:35.555-05:00

Last Night's Moon Originally uploaded by Snak ShakI tried to capture a decent photo of the moon last night. It took many, many attempts before I got a shot that I thought worked, and I was not even sure I captured that until I went through the shots on the computer. I finally gave up and sat on the front steps next to my tripod, staring at my photographic subject for awhile. Staring at the moon

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-72859895981726368472011-06-06T22:21:00.000-05:002011-06-06T22:21:36.933-05:00

Velocipete has polled the masses and concluded that Thursday, June 9 (Bike/Walk day) will be next Beer for Bloggers day! Ride your bike to work, then toast your sustainable lifestyle with a cold one at Sea Salt. Hooray! Thanks, Velocipete. Sea Salt, 5:00ish. Be there or be square, Daddy-O.

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-67085252729457523562011-06-06T18:15:00.000-05:002011-06-06T18:15:13.238-05:00

The ride to support better bike infrastructure at 48th and Chicago went very well! My comrades at MPLS Bike Coalition ran a summary of the event on Coalition blog today, so rather than rehash it here, I'll post a link and let you read it over there. 2F4L took some good photos of the prep, ride over there and the 48th and Chicago scene (including the one with this post). Those can be viewed on

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-27928897865555765272011-06-05T20:14:00.002-05:002011-06-06T08:35:12.167-05:00

I posted previously about the miscellaneous and assorted gear that I carry with me on commutes and rides and such, but today, as I bombed down a steep hill with a stop sign at the bottom, I realized I neglected to include one small but important (to me) piece of equipment. This item is not a tool - it's more of a talisman, albeit a traditional Catholic talisman. About six years ago now, my

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-41665519044110387612011-06-05T10:06:00.000-05:002011-06-05T10:06:31.034-05:00

And like that, it's summer... Velocipete has been so moved by the onset of summer as to declare the next meeting of Beers for Bloggers! I love this event; it's a fun to actually meet the brains behind some of the local bike blogs I monitor, and we always have a good time and lively discussion that comes from getting a bunch of smart, funny people together. Perhaps my brother and sister authors

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-43226754930299365082011-06-04T16:40:00.001-05:002011-06-04T18:12:24.261-05:00

Tomorrow (Sunday, June 5) a group of concerned cyclists will be meeting at noon at Midtown Freewheel and organizing for a fun and casual ride to the 48th and Chicago business node. Come early for lunch if like - they have very good soups and other things at Midtown these days as well as ample parking. I have not decided on a route to 48th and Chi yet - maybe we'll take the Parkway or perhaps

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-8620406816119548882011-06-03T22:35:00.000-05:002011-06-03T22:35:00.029-05:00

Grease Rag announced this week that they have added a new night and location. They will be getting together on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Recovery Bike in Northeast Minneapolis, 7-9PM.  Please come and show your support at the NE Grease Rag, June 14th.  And/ Or show your support by attending the... Grease Rag NE Kick-Off Ride and Party Meet at Sunrise Cyclery (901 W Lake St) at 6PM, group

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-18519072794782662892011-06-02T20:37:00.000-05:002011-06-02T20:37:53.469-05:00

Here is the quick summary of my ride today from downtown MPLS (north of where I live) to far southern Minneapolis:

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-42206391107375697242011-06-02T17:07:00.002-05:002011-06-02T19:24:26.356-05:00

Those mysterious people behind the Twin Cities 3-Speed Adventure Society (TC3-SAS) have emerged from their top-secret Skunkworks to unveil the next 3-Speed Adventure: an invasion (albeit a slow-moving invasion) of  the lovely and essentially defenseless City known as St. Paul. We will begin our exploration of this mysterious realm by meeting at 10:00 AM at The Cross (otherwise known as the scenic

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2184428976951755087.post-76962114322100680652011-06-01T15:48:00.000-05:002011-06-01T15:48:01.552-05:00

Thursday, June 2 is the next Grease Rag event at Sunrise Cyclery. If you are not familiar with Grease Rag, their mission is to encourage and empower women/ trans/ femme (WTF) cyclists in a collaborative and fun learning environment through rides, discussions, shop nights and educational seminars in a safer space. My take on Grease Rag is that it is a good place for women to learn bike repair

Snak Shakhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04096046603568003654noreply@blogger.com0