NAHBS This Weekend…..

The 2010 edition of the North American Handbuilt Show gets under way this Friday in Richmond Virginia. Gathered under one roof will be the finest craftsmen and women to assemble this year in the states. Moots will be on hand with a selection of bikes and components for the 3 day event. Not only will the Moots booth be full of titanium goodies the Shimano booth will also host the first ever Vamoots CR Di2 specific bike for test rides on a wind trainer. This bike will be traveling with Shimano for the season to come. We’ll post a calendar once we nail that down.

In addition to the show itself there a loads of before and after hours activities: On Friday night Careytown Bike Company will be hosting an open house that we will attend, Saturday at 11:45 our own Butch Boucher will be giving a seminar talk on all things Moots and titanium. Later in the day we are rallying Moots owners to meet at our booth at the show shuts down. From there we will head out to one of the many local establishments for a beer…..or two. After a fun night out we will pry our tired eyes open early Sunday am to attend the Rapha Gentlemen’s ride that meets up at 7 am and rolls out at 7:30 for a nice 20 mile ride around the Richmond area. A ride at the handbuilt show on handbuilt bikes….what could be better?
Join us for a great time this weekend. Listed below are the links you’ll need for more info.

See you in Richmond!

CAREYTOWN SOCIAL NIGHT

NAHBS SEMINARS

RAPHA GENTLEMENS RIDE

TI ONE ON…..

The Moots bus is on the road and headed towards The North American Handbuilt Bicycle Show in Richmond Va (February 26th-28th). On the way we will be stopping for a nights rest (and beers) with our friends at DSG (Dirt Sweat and Gears) at the Yazoo Tap Room in Nashville TN. Moots will be present with a sneek peak of NAHBS show goodies.

At the event you can make a $10 donation to SORBA/IMBA that will get you a ticket for the drawing of a Moots frame that will be given away at the Dirt Sweat and Gears race. There will also be random drawings for cool schwag.

The Ti One On event gets started at 6:30 pm and will go until 8:30.

Stop in and have a beer, the first one is on the house.

BEERS TO YOU!

Yesterday as you may or may not know we sent the very first Vamoots RSL out into the world. The end customers name is Jeff. I’ll leave off his last name to protect his identity and keep others from searching him out and harassing him to ride/touch or even swipe his new rig. Through the shop we got to know a little bit about Jeff….he is now a 2 Moots owner (has a Ybb in the stable) and now will add the RSL. He rides….a lot. To us this really makes us smile, knowing that our hard work, attention to detail, blood, sweat and even some tears (sorry Butch but you are a crier) will go to a great cause. Mile after mile, for a lifetime to come…… that’s what gives us great happiness in a bike geek/builder kind of way.

Speaking from my point of view, the RSL is a true milestone in the evolution of Moots. I’ve been around and worked for Moots for 15+ years(not to say I’ve seen everything or that I’m old as dirt), but in my time at Moots I’ve seen some great ideas come to realization and I’ve seen some that you’ll never know about. Points on the Moots map if you will; Ybb made of Prestige steel, the very first Titanium Ybb, the aero TT bike that went to Vegas (a total one off never to be made again) stems with removable face plates that have been refined, I saw the very first classic Moots Ti seat post in 1994, as well as Cinch post prototypes two years before you saw the final riding testing abusing…as well as other projects too numerous and boring to list……great products from great people at Moots.

All of those products have always had the touch, feel and quality we’ve come to expect from Moots. The RSL is no different. From my point of view inside Moots it was an amazing project to be part of…from the concept on the grease board, going after this frame tube by tube to hit the goals we wanted to achieve, to seeing our first baby leave the nest (tear)….truly a group effort on all fronts. From the miter shop, to welding, through finishing and all the cool stuff the CNC department made that goes into the RSL….my co-workers “pulled through” to make this bike fly!

Here’s to the crew that makes the magic at Moots.
Well done and thanks!
Cheers!

Vamoots RSL

The first round of the Vamoots RSL's are just about ready to ship, customers are getting anxious for their new rides, gathering new components and planning events for the season to come. The very first RSL will be shipping out mid-next week around the 18th of February. To say we are excited would be an understatement. Just the other day the final piece of the puzzle came into place. The new 2010 road head badge. Yes, our road line now has its very own badge. Mr. Moot’s wheelie gator in road form. This badge will be going on all road, cross and Mootour frames starting February 18th. It's been pared down and Mr. Moots now has slick tires for the road that lies ahead.

The badge is specific to the 2010 road line and cannot fit onto the mountain version we've had for many years. The hole pattern is different on the new badge. (sorry)

We are looking forward to seeing the RSL’s get ridden and raced this spring.

Happy riding!

NAHBS 2010……

The North American Hand Built Bicycle Show lands in Richmond Virginia this year. Moots will be on hand for its 3rd NAHBS in 3 years. This gets our show and travel season underway with a fun filled, craft filled bicycle show. If you can attend you will not be disappointed. This show brings together the best hand built bicycles in the world. Moots will have a quiver of handbuilit, finely crafted bicycles on hand that span our range of Road, Mountain, Cross and specialty builds. In addition to the show our very own Butch Boucher will be giving a NAHBS Seminar on all things titanium at 11:45 am on Saturday in one of the outer halls of the convention center. You can pre-register for the seminar here: NAHBS SEMINARS

If you love beautifully built bikes this is a show for you.

For Moots owners stopping in on us at the show we will have a special something for you in the booth.

Come by and see us…at NAHBS Richmond. We will also be “tweeting” during the show so make sure you sign up and follow along.

We hope to see you there.

Winter Carnival Weekend….

Since we live and work in an area of Colorado where winter can be much longer than summer, way back when (97 years to be exact) someone here in Steamboat thought it would be good to celebrate all things associated with the wonderful season of cold. Thus Winter Carnival was born. A handful of days that belong to doing some strange things in the snow.…….Marching bands on skis, dogs pulling kids in sleds, ski jumpers flying through fiery hoops....all in the sake of celebrating winter. Good times in a small town. It's at this point during the winter we have all gone just a bit nuts and need to step out for a good time....it's February 5th, Spring is out there, not too far away, but just far enough away that we need a good party to get us through till it comes.

No matter where you are, get out and celebrate the cold wintery times. Not long and those times will give way to bike rides and BBQ's.

Cheers to winter......for now.

Check out the winter carnival here: 97th Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival

Cross The Way….

Thad Hoffman, a Moots GrassMoots team guy took out the overall win in the 35+ Cross The Way Series based out of Nashville, TN. Thad writes a great blog at: j5marsupial.blogspot.com ....he loves to single speed and finds that his Moots is adaptable to most any style of race. Some insight from Thad....

"It was a great hotly contested series. Cross has grown like crazy here the last couple years (over 41 races on the calendar this season) and this was the first year for this series put on by UpHillGrind Productions. I raced Masters 35+ and Singlespeed classes both on my Rigormootis which is a singlespeed. I don't have the luxury of multiple purpose specific bikes so I had to pick one bike to do it all. Which is why I love the Rigor. From endurance mtb racing, to cross racing, to endurance gravel races, to bike polo, to commuting the versatility, performance, and ride of the Rigormootis slider is hard to beat. Though I do have my heart set on a PsychloX for cross and adventure rides someday. And I hear the RSL delivers on so many levels too... decisions decisions"

Thanks to Thad for supporting Moots and flying the flag!

Cross at its best!

So it's deep winter in the Northern Hemisphere, winter blues, cold temps and not much of the big bright ball in the sky peaking out. For Cyclocross fanatics this means the Euro pros at lighting it up on thick muddy courses, snow and ice pasted turns and peaking for worlds that are coming next weekend in Tabor, CZE. The course will be covered in snow and ice, racers rolling on tires with tire pressures that would resemble a flat for most. This past Sunday the big names in Euro Cyclocross had one last race to test themselves for worlds and throw a few elbows as well. This is a summary of the race with some hair ball passes between Albert and Stybar, good racing for sure. A good way to stay warm on the coldest of winter days…..

Next weekend is gonna be hot!

Vamoots RSL tubing….

At Moots we are very fond of high quality, seamless, round titanium tubing. This holds true in every model we make, from cross, road, mountain and even commute, we use round tubing that is subtly ovalized on the ends to make it flow into the next tube. The Vamoots RSL continues this tradition of round tubes, although this time around the RSL tubes have something a little different inside them....butts. Butted tubing is not new to the cycling world by any means. Here at Moots we have and do enjoy using straight gauge tubing for our builds, given the fact that there are more diameters and wall thicknesses to choose from to define the ride of a certain size of frame or need of the customer. To move forward with the RSL we rethought every tube going into the bike to maximize stiffness while reducing weight. No easy task. In most frame builds the more weight you remove the less stiff the frame becomes. So as you reduce the weight (using thinner tubes) we increase the diameter to keep the frame stiff. When using butted tubes, in our case double butted and single butted, you remove the weight from the mid-section of the tube while keeping it thicker on the ends (heat affected weld zone) to have the strength in the right spot in the tube.

For the RSL we use an oversized double butted top and down tube. Increasing the diameter of the down tube to 41mm to keep the stiffness low in the frame and pair down the weight. We are also using a single butted oversized 35mm seat tube to again, keep the stiffness low on the bike, in the area most beneficial to being stiff (drive line). For our butting needs we are working with Reynolds of England. They have been in the tubing business since the late 1800's and have held many patents on tubing production and butting processes. For the front end of the RSL we are sending them our 3/2.5 US made tubing and having those tubes butted to our specification just for the RSL. They use an internal Mandrel to butt the tubing, keeping control of wall thickness and butt profile during the entire process. We have had Reynolds butt multiple diameters for the RSL to address the ride for each size.....a special tube set indeed.

The first RSL frames are going into the jig as I type….First one out this am was a 50cm size weighing in at 2.3 lbs.....jig and frame are both doing well....., with the 56cm coming in at 2.5 lbs. of durable titanium goodness. We can’t wait to have you ride them!

More to come.

RSL—the little things all brought together…..

As we hit the ground running in 2010 we thought it might be interesting to take a deeper look at our new Vamoots RSL road frame. This is a new frame for us from the ground up….every tube, every feature every piece of technology used that best embodies Moots and the Moots build philosophy and as usual- keeping it all titanium. In the past we had the Vamoots SL and Compact SL made of Reynolds 6/4 seamless butted tubing that filled this offering. After a couple of years that tube set was no longer available, so we started our search for something better. The search landed us with Reynolds but this time utilizing our US made tubing, butted to our specs. Combining those tubes with a Press fit BB30, sculpted head tube, paired down Breezer style drop outs and 6/4 micro seat stays……. The RSL was born!

For today, we’ll start with the specs and tech behind the Press Fit BB30. Over the past several years BB30 has made its way into many high end bikes, touting lightweight, stiffness and power transfer from rider to machine. Back in the spring of 2009 we started with a standard BB30 set up. This requires that the bearings with a 30mm inside diameter be pressed directly into the frame shell. This requires that “C” clips be used behind the bearings for “stops”. We built them and road them, learning the entire time. This set up did accomplish a few things: stiffer bb area, lighter crank and better power transfer. Not totally satisfied with the bearing to shell interface, possible creaking that could occur and difficulty of installation and removable we set off into a second version with Press Fit BB30. It is produced by SRAM and takes the bearing to bottom bracket shell contact out of the picture. The bearings (still a 30mm inside diameter) are housed in a nylon cup set (see above picture) that is pressed into the shell with a common head set press. This takes away the direct bearing contact to shell. We are using a 2 inch outside diameter seamless 3/2.5 titanium tube that is then bored out on the inside to accept the press fit cups.

The Press Fit 30 unit is easy to install, easy to remove and accomplished exactly what we wanted; lighter crank component, stiffer BB area, better power transfer, an outside diameter that gave a larger landing area for the down tube, seat tube and chain stays.

The Press fit is available in standard and ceramic bearing offerings. Any BB30 crank set is compatible with the Press Fit BB30, with adaptors in the works from companies like Wheels Manufacturing for most 24mm spindle crank sets.

If you have any questions, please ask or comment.

Next week we will take a look at the tubing used in the RSL…..stayed tuned.

Rapha Summer 2009 film

A nice reminder of what our part of the world looks like without snow. Really warms the heart looking at this footage from our time with the Rapha crew.

2010 looks to be even better as the book comes out and we embark on a project bike for one of the Rapha Continental Riders.

The New Year approaches….

As we wrap up 2009 here at Moots it really makes one reflect over the last year…..The bikes we’ve built the friends we’ve made and the miles we’ve covered. So many to think about it boggles the mind. We are very fortunate to do so much. New Year’s resolutions are, well up to you to make or not…they are a slippery slope, easy to make, hard to keep for many. We know here at Moots we will continue to make the best possible bike frames around, but really have you; our great customers, promoters and ambassadors to thank for the kind words of encouragement over the last year and beyond.

THANK YOU!

Be safe, be good.

Happy New Year from the Moots crew!

Vamoots RSL makes the PEZ wish list…..

The nice folks at PEZ Cycling have given the Vamoots RSL a spot on their holiday wish list. Just as the first tube sets are being cut for February delivery we are honored to have made the list. If Santa passed you by last week, now is the time to make that New Year’s resolution to be riding the RSL come spring.

As the RSL makes its way through the hands of the Moots builders we will be posting inside looks at how this bike came to be. From ground up concept to a ride ready rocket, this frame spares no expense or technology in an all titanium chassis, Moots quality, durability and phenomenal ride.

Check out the posting on PEZ: VAMOOTS RSL WISH LIST

Emeralds “other” bike season……

For the most part the majority of the country has gotten a taste of winter in one form or another as of late. Here in Steamboat we had a blissfully dry fall with very little snow and great riding temps. November brought very cold temps, no snow. Now that December is here we have had a couple of good storms, and some brutally cold temps..... (Think -15 below zero)....a fickle EL' Nino year in the making for sure. So with the ski trails lacking great coverage and paved roads too slick to ride, the in between season is here. Eric, Brad, Sam and a good number of locals have all gotten into the snow biking mode. Our little slice of heaven, known as Emerald Mountain holds a huge number of mountain bike trails during the summer, that come winter, make for perfect packed out snow bike able routes. So the crew has been riding and having a good time with the huge tired bikes. They go pretty slow as to keep from creating too much wind chill on themselves but fast enough to keep the mountain lion at bay.

Enjoy your winter, wherever you might be!

Vermarc clothing…

Above Category project update….

A nice update on the Above Category/Spectrum Project:

Moots Custom White

Cross and Johnny Cash….can it get any better?

This pretty sums up the hard training session that was handed out today. Glen, Matty P and myself got after some good old puk style efforts today at lunch. No knee warmers needed. November 11th and 58 degrees .....ah the glory days of a long warm fall.

It's too bad Bart Wellens is not racing yet this year.....he's always good for some spirited races.

Test Drive: Moots Sprinter….

A couple of weeks ago we had a visitor that is writing about driving 365 vehicles in 365 days. Yes, we know cars are the problem and not the solution, but hey to be included in this endevor is kinda cool.

Read the write up here: 365 DRIVE

How about 365 bikes in 365 days?......hmmmm

PSYCHLO-X REVIEW…..

Oh my goodness. Just at the peak of cross season our friends at RIDE MAGAZINE in Australia have come out with a beautiful review on the Psychlo-X.

Click here to view entire review: RIDE MAGAZINE PSYCHLO-X REVIEW

Vail TV8 Pays Moots a visit…..

Just prior to the Interbike trade show Vail TV8 paid us a visit to feature us on Colorado Finds. They toured the facility with camera man in tow and found out what it takes to build a Moots.

Many thanks to the crew!

Some color…

Our Moots dealer in Mill Valley, Ca. (Above Category) has a customer that just received his new custom roadie. He also decided to have some color added to the picture by sending it to Spectrum in Colorado Springs. They do a really nice job and have a same day update as the project rolls through. Check it out:

Moots Pearl

The beauty of this sport…..

I know I'm very partial to cross, but really the mud, the colors of tape, leaves and soft tubular tires contiues to fuel my love for this sport. I really can't get enough.....

Cheers!

Jon Cariveau slays 'em in the fast 35+ class at the Providence Cross Festival! In addition to shaking hands and kissing babies for 4 days during the recent Outdoor Demo East, Jon found a bit of extra energy to sneak out of the booth and race the worldclass 'cross course at Roger Williams Park in Providence. Pulling in a 3rd day one Jon went to the top step on Sunday taking the win in front of a very fast field, including the National Champion no less! Here Jon, have a beer

So…there is some history around here…..

Living in the West (Colorado) we really don't get to see much really old history in the grand scheme of things. Out east where we are set for Dirt Demo east it's much different.....much, much different. We will be at Roger Williams park over the next four days doing demos and my favorite cyclocross racing. The very grounds where Mr. Williams walked.....long ago.

READ HERE

CX Magazine dot com……

A nice mention and photos from Andrew and the crew at CX Magazine.....



CX MAG

Video and photos from Vegas……

Cleaning out the camera from Las Vegas......came across the cross race pics and more......

FLICKR: HERE

Here kitty, kitty…….

Dave had a welcome home from our local wildlife......

READ ARTICLE HERE

The swimming portion of the night….

Sorry JR & Brad, but I could not help myself on this one.....

JR & Brad did a lap in the pool during the moring hours after Cross Vegas.....

Cross Vegas and beyond…..

The last 24 hours have been 24 to remember for sure. Last night was Cross Vegas here at the show. A time to get away from the lights, noise and interesting smells that make Sin City all that much more of a special place to visit. After working 2 days of dirt demo, a day of show and eating not the best diet in the world you never know how things will go when you line up to race. Starting the industry race from the 3rd row on the velcro-like grass at the Desert Breeze Soccer with 100+ other racers would not be easy. The amount of really fast guys in our industry is amazing....ex-pros, hardened working stiffs and everything in between....a fun group to go around in circles with for awhile. The race unfolded and I was fortunate to get the WIN! Holy poop on a stick! After the shock wore off we got in the beer line to ready ourselves for the women’s and means races......... what a time. After multiple trips through the beer line we started to get into the festive atmosphere and carried that all the way through the night.

Later we continued our post cross race celebrations at a small party put on by RAPHA.....we also might have done a little swimming somewhere in there........

The morning came too early after the night on the town....most years we are good for only one of those nights per Vegas visits, thank goodness....ouch.

Tomorrow is the last day of the show and time to head home......overall it's been really good, the New Vamoots RSL has turned a lot of heads and now that the cat is out of the bag I can tell you I will be placing my order around Christmas. Lightest, stiffest Moots I've ever ridden......hands down.

More photos to come.......

Interbike update ……going from outdoor to indoor

We are finally at a hotel that has wireless internet or internet that works. The past two days have been great. Dirt demo is a two day event that, well, is mostly in the dirt, or in this case the dirt is on everything. 25 miles to the south and east of Vegas is Boulder City, NV. Bootleg canyon to be exact…this location hosts the outdoor portion of Interbike that is two days filled with bike dealers to try out and put product through its paces in 95+ degree heat, and this year 20mph winds……I guess we should not complain as it snowed back in Steamboat while we have been gone.

Over the two days we turned around over 175 demos to people from around the world. Our New Vamoots RSL really received great attention and even better than that great reviews in the “how does it ride” department. It’s been a great project we have been working on for many months and to finally show it feels pretty special.
This morning before dirt demo got rolling we did some rolling of our own on road bikes. The “Hangover” ride takes place at 8am on the second day of dirt demo. Bike shop owners, bicycle shop employees and industry folk head out for a 27 miles trip down to Lake Mead and back. Nothing like descending for 13.5 miles and then climbing back up for 13.5 to loosen up the legs before standing on them all day. Bombing the first part of the ride with 150 people is something to behold….skill levels may vary, ride at your own risk….very fun to ride as part of the job.
Cycling news did a nice write up of the Vamoots RSL…if you didn’t catch it you can find it here:

CYCLINGNEWS

Wednesday night is Cross Vegas…..looking forward to the race and mixing it up with friends from the industry.

DIRT DEMO EAST

The Moots traveling road show will follow up Interbike in Vegas with a trip to Dirt Demo East, in Providence Rhode Island. The dates are October 8th, 9th, 10th & 11th. Thursday through Sunday. The first two days are industry days, followed by a new format that is open to the public. Not only will you be able to come ride, view and chat about all things new from Moots, you will also be able to take in some stellar cyclocross racing action as The Providence Cross Festival runs in conjunction with Dirt Demo.

We will have a fleet of bikes, mountain and road to check out. Follow the links for specific location, times and what you'll need to get out on a test ride.

See you in Providence!

Facebook and Twitter from Moots….it’s show time!

Just as we load the vans, and trailer to head off to the bicycle industries largest show in Vegas, we have taken the time to bring Moots into multiple social networks. It is after all 2009.... We have had our Facebook page up and running for the better part of summer and just recently added a Twitter account to keep our loyal fans and riders in the know. We will be posting Twitter, Facebook and blog updates right from the show room floor in Vegas. Holy technology! The new phone we have now is pretty much a lap top that fits in your pocket. We will be adding the Facebook and Twitter buttons to the home page at some point but for now you can find them here:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

Become our friend, follow our tweets and enjoy the insight as it unfolds from our eyes at the mother ship. My thumbs are in great shape and ready to stream poetic thoughts and peeks at the new stuff from your favorite titanium builder....

We will be at the two days of dirt demo, 3 days of show, roughly 32 fully built Moots bikes, and a staff of 7-8 people to make it all happen. We will also be attending Cross Vegas which is billed as Americas biggest cross race. I really can't disagree with a night time cross race, mid week to add to the Vegas atmosphere.

Enjoy the insight

A good start to a busy week……

What can one say about starting your week off with a 30 mile ride with one of the best people to grace a bike shop? Chris Dimmick, general manager of Turin Bicycle in Evanston Illinois is visiting Moots this week with his wife and parents. Super nice people to the core. Moots has a long history with Turin and any time we get to ride, socialize and race cross together, we do! This morning we rolled at 8 am to take in the Emerald dirt road loop....okay, it's mostly paved, but a nice little portion is smooth Routt County dirt. A slice of heaven on earth. The weather was perfect....cool but not cold, sunny and well, any ride beats work any day of the week, especially a Monday. We did it up Euro style and stopped at the local crack dealer, I mean coffee shop for a post ride coffee and chat. A wonderful way to start the last week before Interbike!

Thanks Chris for making the trip to see us mountain folk. We love the time together!

It’s not a Moots, but it flies!!!

Moots rider and long time supporter Brian Smith out ot Walnut Creek, Ca. sent in this photo of things he does when not on his Moots.
Turning laps in the WRX, getting all four wheels in the air...he says "it's just a bit faster than the Vamoots".....just a bit......

We need to get him a Moots sticker for that rig!

"You're here for a good time, not for a long time" COLIN McRAE 1968-2007

Keep in upright Brian!

Post Stage Race Buzz…….

Like the morning after a really good party, most of us are in a slight fog after 4 days of exciting stage racing here in Steamboat. In total 305 racers took to the start line to tackle the 4 different stages over 4 days. Our man Corey and the town of Steamboat really has something to be proud of ....great organization & volunteers that went over the top to provide safe and exciting racing to all.

On Sunday night after the Moots Road race we hosted the awards ceremony here at Moots; we had over 300 people show up to enjoy factory tours, food and beer. At the ceremony we also gave away a Moots road frame to a lucky racer. The lucky winner was young Gregory Daniel racing in the cat 3's at the age of 14! Not only did he win the frame, but he was also an instigator all weekend long. Congratulations go Gregory!

If you like road stage racing plan on coming next year it's only going to get better!


More photos and race reports to come.

Links: STEAMBOAT PILOT

DENVER POST

STEAMBOAT STAGE RACE SITE

Race packets come together…..

A nice race packet awaits each racer.....

Like a deer in headlights…..

The Steamboat Stage Race gets underway this afternoon with a 4.5 mile prologue. Corey and his many helpers have been working on this weekend since January. Knowing Corey on this end I do have to say he is one cool customer...I really haven't seen any outward signs of him cracking...and I hope to be the first person to buy him a beer on Monday afternoon when the race is over. 305 racers will be putting power to the pedal over the next 4 days...beautiful, safe and testing routes await all. It's been awhile for most of us since our last good stage race...perfect timing for many that will go into cross season....a good way for many to finish off the end of their season.

I see Alison Dunlap is in my 35+ men’s category! I've heard she is going to be racing cross this year and this is sure to serve as a great lead into the season.

I'll be posting some insight to the racing over the weekend.....

Good luck Corey, thanks for bringing big time racing back to Steamboat.

Stage Race Fever

The lead up to the Steamboat Stage Race has been beautiful, the weather seems to be looking great, the Southern California smoke has cleared the valley and Corey (promoter, Moots man, great guy) is holding his own. Moots is all set to welcome just over 300 racers to town and our facility. We are hosting the Sunday evening awards ceremony at Moots. Podium presentations will get under way around 6:30 pm, with beer, burgers, factory tours and a boat load of TI wonder bikes spread about. Our little town is really getting behind this event, next stop: Tour de Colorado 2011? You never know.......

This photo of the Lantern Rouge caught my eye......the battle for last will not go without an award!

Corey did a live interview yesterday morning on our local channel.....view here: http://www2.steamboatpilot.com/videos/2009/sep/02/1634/

Moots will be at every stage venue with our "hospitality" tent, come by and say hi!

See you on the road.

Rocky Mountain Bicycle Show…..

This coming weekend Moots will be attending and displaying our fine handcrafted products during the Rocky Mountain Bicycle Show. The show kicks off Saturday running from 10 am to 5 pm. Then on Sunday morning Moots will be hosting a Moots Owners Ride at 8:00 am from Pedal Pushers in Golden. We will be leading both road and mountain bikes ride from the shop at 8:00 am sharp. The rides will be 2 to 2.5 hours long, no drop pace. Bring your choice of bike and mingle with other Moots owners and some Moots staff. Details:

Location: Pedal Pushers 2401 Ford Street, Golden Colorado 80401

Date: Sunday August 23rd, 2009

Time: 8:00 am sharp ready to ride

Hope to see you there; once the ride is over we will be heading to the show for a day of bike fun!

TURKEY…….

A friend of Moots sent in a little video of this turkey chasing him down the street....6:30 am, heading to a hike before work....Marin, Ca.

He says the big guy has been hanging around the hood for a week or so.....I tell him to fatten him up looking towards November!

RUN TURKEY RUN!

Just one of the views…….

you will get while racing in The Steamboat Stage Race…..

One of Moots' own is getting down to business by putting on a 4 day stage race. Scheduled for September 4th-7th, 2009, the classic stage race format is being used with a prologue on Friday, circuit race on Saturday, rolling road race on Sunday, with a downtown critirium to wrap it up on Monday. Corey P. has been working night & day with businesses, volunteers and city officials in order to bring a premier stage race to Colorado. Over the past few years stage races have become very rare in Colorado, what is one to do? Put on yer own! This one will not disappoint. The routes are safe, testing and even scenic if you get dropped off the back.
If you can make the trip to Steamboat this would be a great way to make lifetime memories.


Please check out the race site: STEAMBOAT STAGE RACE

You can registar here: BIKEREG

RAPHA MINI…..

RAPHA CAME TO TOWN…..

The crew and I here at Moots were lucky enough to play host to the Rapha Continental team this last Sunday and Monday. If you are not familiar with what the Rapha rides are all about, hop over to check it out: RAPHA EPICS.

So, Rapha makes REALLY NICE clothes. But not only do they believe in beautifully made garments, they also believe in getting out and riding…..a lot……and as a bonus they look great while doing the rides. The idea behind the rides is to show case places you and I might find ourselves out riding and suffering. Your local loop that either for distance, landscape, weather or severity of climbs might be considered “Epic”. The crew at Rapha shows up and goes along to document the ride in: photos, video and words what the ride was like. The short films are inspiring, the photos real….all to be put into a “coffee table” book next year. …..and then there are the clothes of course. Hmmmm. I personally love the look, no massive logos, no super PRO Tour look. Just sublime. I call it my incognito kit, when I just want to blend out……..

It was a joy to have them at the Moots facility, show them the local “epicness”, share stories, beers, and make new friends that love the joy of riding so much.

Check out: BUT WHY IS THERE AND ALLIGATOR ON THE BIKE?

Mountain Bike Fun…..

As the warm dry days of summer pass here in Steamboat we are treated to a multitude of trails, blooming wild flowers and our local town series mountain bike races. The races take place every other Wednesday night and go between rolling courses on Emerald Mountain, to the straight up, straight down courses on the ski area. Last night was the straight up, straight down variety held on the ski area. Known as the Sunshine Loop, the race started with a climb that served up about 2300' of climbing followed by the same amount of descending. Hill climb race, followed by downhill race.....amazingly fun course, beautiful flowers and great friends. Our own Brad Bingham and Kelly Boniface continued their winning ways in the pro category. Several other Mooties factory racers came out as well.....Evan (miter shop) Corey (finishing) Matty P (welder) and even myself.....I was bringing up the rear and spending too much time looking at the flowers.

The Steamboat Today story: HEREhttp://www.steamboatpilot.com/news/2009/jul/23/boniface_bingham_lead_town_challenge_race_ski_area/

The Terminator inside Jens….

Yesterday’s crash of Jens Voight has been well documented and I'm sure we've all seen enough. Thankfully it sounds like he will be okay and race again. This morning as we gathered around the coffee machine in true Jens style, Matt brought up the idea that if they had to cut into Jens to repair his broken cheek bone, they would find the Terminator fuselage inside. Part human, mostly machine, add in a good dose of caffeine and you'd get the ultimate bike racing warrior that is: Jens Voight.

I love that guy.

Brad steps to the podium…..

Picture this......I'm driving down the road last weekend on my way back from the wrap up of the Breck Epic, Moots cell phone rings and I miss the call, I send a call back to the number that I missed and it's Brad Bingham, our wonder boy of welding, machining and bike racing. I say: "what's up"...he says: "just got off the podium with JHK and Michael Broderick in Winter Park, that’s what’s up"!....I say...."holy sh*&"! and just about drop my ice cream. In his own humble way he tells me about the race and how it felt….fast, painful and….fun.
Brad has been really focusing on his racing this year and when Brad focuses on something, whatever that may be....look out. He finished about 5 minutes off the lead and that was to JHK who chases World Cup points! We could not be more proud of him.

3 days later he also won our town series race by a large margin.......crazy fast.

This weekend Brad lines up with the entire pro field as they chase the stars and stripes in Sol Vista Colorado....about 90 miles from here....it will be tuff, it will hurt, but I'm sure Brad will have a smile on his face the entire time, having “fun”.

Congratulations Brad and good luck this weekend!

Wait; don’t tell me…..it’s Tour time….

Yes, it’s that time of year. For us Tour fans it is the time of year that you have to be at work during the morning coverage so you go all day asking people not to tell you what happened during the day’s stage. We talk to a lot of shops around the country and either the shop person or we start the conversation out by saying…..”don’t tell me about the stage”…..”I’m going home and watching later”….as not to ruin the suspense. I know during these times of streaming video, “tweeting”, and live updates it’s easy to take a peek during the day and see the result, but I find myself for these 3 weeks in July not being tempted to look. I like keeping that couple of hours late at night for me and my wife to tune in and follow the drama. I’m sure our neighbors wonder what we are yelling about…….if you call Moots, please don’t tell me about the Tour.

Enjoy the July tradition: bike racing, hot weather and great rides!

Lobeck forced to pull the plug….

An update on our local hero Erik Lobeck who at last sighting was passing through Steamboat and looking very strong to finish this years Great Divide. Erik pushed south and got to within 250 miles of the finish. At that point he had picked up a friend in the form of a virus and was passing liquid out places liquid should not be coming from. Sadly he had to stop and return to Steamboat where he was put in the hospital. After a couple of days in the hospital he is out and thankfully among the living. I hope to interview him when he is up to it and post some insight to his ride.

Great job Erik!

Food for the road……

One of the Brits on the Divide was drinking this......yum.

Catching up with Lobeck……

Or I should say he came crashing down the route at me. We've been tracking our good friend Erik on his journey during the Great Divide Route over the last 12 days as he closed in on Steamboat. Last night he stopped at Brush Creek Lodge just 45 miles Northwest of Steamboat. This morning I rolled north at about 6:15 am to ride 30 miles out and hopefully meet him on Forest Service road 42. As I made my way further up 42 road I gave myself 2 more miles to run into him and then I needed to role to work. With about .5 miles of my 2 miles to go Erik rounded the bend in front of me....SWEET! He was pretty darn excited to see a familiar face in the middle of nowhere.......I tried to give him a pastry I had bought at the Clark store for him but he refused as it goes against the rules.....NO OUTSIDE SUPPORT that is not available to everyone. He's got morals for sure. I shot some video and photos as we rolled towards the Clark store. As we got closer we picked up another Moots greeter in the form of Ex-employee Gordon Shuck......wanting to ride in with our buddy Erik.

Loads of insight from Erik on the daily "grind"...pretty much he has settled into 120 to 130 miles per day. So far he's ridden 1300 miles and climbed 100,000 feet! He got to ditch the bear spray as he is now out of Grizzly country, only one major mechanical in the form of a slashed tire. He's running on his hard tail Moots:

26'' wheels
Fox 100mm fork, with remote lock out
XTR drive train top to bottom
Moots Tail gator rack system
Frame bag in main triangle
Handle bar bag,
Sleeping bag on handle bars
Extra large seat bag (think sleeping bag size)
Smooth, low knob tires front & rear
King h-set
Ergon Grips
Comfy saddle
3 water bottle locations on frame
Hydration pack
1 jersey
2 pair chamois
1 pair Smartwool socks
Jacket
Knee warmers
Arm warmers

That gear and a big ass smile are about it. He was feeling good and seems to have knee problems behind him at this point. It looks like they will be riding into warmer weather from here on out. Sun Screen and riding early in the day will be the mode from here to the finish.

Good to see you Erik, be safe!

Lobeck update….

Steamboat local Erik Lobeck is headed this way. Seems he had a tear in the rear tire that lead to multiple "fixes" and waiting around until the bike shop in Rawlins opened this am at 9:30 am.....Looks like his GPS Spotter puts him on the WY/CO boarder.....a small group of us hope to rally north Wednesday am to roll with him back to town......will have trail side photos and of course some priceless quotes from him.

Dope……

No not EPO, CERA or growth hormone or even the natural stuff Missy got caught with......riding wheelies on roads bikes type of dope.......

Italians....leave it to them to true showmanship......

Unreal

Kurt & Chris 2nd & 3rd Great Divide……

That's Chris on the left, Kurt on the right......

Early this morning, or really just 45 minutes ago 2nd & 3rd place in the Great Divide Route passed just meters from the Moots Mother ship. We have been following the race as it has a good history of Moots riders taking part, winning and suffering. The route comes down county road 129 and due to the great technology of GPS SPOT tracking devises we can time a meeting of the riders to a T. Kurt Refsniderr and Chris Plesko made their way by Moots, I tracked them and grabbed the camera and in perfect timing met up with them at the end of Copper Ridge Drive. During the Fall and winter, Kurt & I trade paint during the cross season and have good respect for each other’s abilities...plus he's a really nice guy. Anyway, I snapped photos and rode with them to Orange Peel where they stopped for some much needed repairs. Brock, J.R., Paul, and Thad had the repair stands cleared and in no time went to work on the bikes. Their accounts of the “stage” so far were great, Grizzly bears, wind and it seems that mud has been the biggest issue for bike and body. Speaking of bikes.....Kurt is on a pretty basic Salsa Dos Niner....Chris riding a steel fully rigid single speed!

Good luck guys, thanks for the chat!

Introducing Kelly Boniface…….

Mom of two, wife and all around great person.....did I mention she's a pro mountain racer that crushes? Moots ambassador Kelly Boniface made the jump from expert last year to pro this year and is now starting to hit stride in the top division. This last weekend was the Mountain States Cup stop in Crested Butte Colorado, despite pouring rain; grease like mud, Kelly managed a podium finish against some heavy hitters. Her results as an expert are too long to list.

She lives in Steamboat taking care of two young girls, her husband and tending to the books for their business Back Country Provisions. The business supports our local junior cycling program as well as our town series races. Racing and bikes runs deep in the Boniface family. Plus they make the tastiest sandwiches on the planet.

Congrats to Kelly! Glad to have her on our team.

Picture download Moab Spring 2009

Now that the Flickr account is clean I put up some uploads/downloads .......some pics of our company retreat to Moab.....miles were ridden, skin was lost and yes beers where had.


Click here to view the fun: MOAB 2009

So you like long rides do ya?

A very good friend and ex-Moots employee is out there getting in a big one before he becomes a papa. Some 10+ years ago Erik Lobeck was a bead blaster for about 5 months here at Moots. Now an architect and the nicest guy you would want to meet, he's out in Montana somewhere pedaling his Moots down the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Starting in Banff, Canada on June 12 and hopefully finishing in Antelope Wells, NM. Eric hopes to complete the one stage event in about 3 week’s time. 2745 miles, 4418 km, 200,000 feet of climbing.......ouch. About 2 and half weeks ago I was on my way to Denver in the Sprinter van early one morning and came upon Erik riding along about 50 miles from Steamboat....he was riding to Lyons via Rocky Mountain National Park.....I stopped to make sure he was topped off on water......he said "yep, out for a small training ride today"......160 miles total. I hope it is paying off for him.

At last check via the 1-800 number he had seen many Grizzly bears and overcome a badly cramping calf. Current place on the road is 8th....next week at some point he will be rolling down Routt County road 129.....100 yards from the Moots place. We'll be waiting with food and a hot shower. But I'm sure his wife will beat us to his side.

GO ERIK, GO!

You can follow his progress here: ERIK'S SPOT

Home Sweet Home…..

A great site to see after loging 3700 miles over 14 days on the road. My butt hurts worse from sitting in the captians chair of the sprinter than any ride I've ever done. Towards the end the chamois cream was being used for more than just riding......downloading more photos, more to come.

Road warrior….

I’ve been abducted…..not really but I feel like it. I’ve been on the road since last Friday with only a 24 hour re-charge back in Steamboat. My travel started on May 28th with a drive to the front range of Colorado to visit dealers, spend the night and do a demo day at Evergreen Bicycle Outfitter. Home for Sunday and headed back out for the big one on Monday am….A 12 day trip to California…. I then drove to San Diego, Ca to start my Tour. Mainly by sprinter van for me unlike the pros back in February on their bikes. I am traveling with bikes, so I have been able to get a ride or two in, a couple of swims in the Pacific and have managed my way through southern California traffic like a pro. That’s no entirely true as I have a Garmin GPS unit guiding me to my destinations. I call here “Money Penny”…she talks to me and IS the money! Tonight I’m in Santa Barbara after a long 4 shop day, with some of La’s finest bumper to bumper 75 mile an hour on the 6 lane you can imagine….I made one last stop at a shop called Veloworx in Santa Monica….a nice shop, very pro. You know a pro shop when the owner is gluing up tubulars……like a pro.
As I rolled into Santa Monica I had to laugh at a guy standing in the divider holding a sign that read:

“SPACE SHIP BROKEN, NEED PARTS, CAN YOU SPARE SOME $$?”

He looked pretty spacey to me….and I needed a laugh after the traffic I had come through.

More shops, a bike festival, a ride and maybe more broken space ships on tap for tomorrow.

Take me to your leader. 1800 miles covered.

#1 Moots Dealer in Korea

Just returned from an excellent trip across Asia visiting Moots distributors in China, Korea and Japan, sampling the local delicacies (and saki), taking in the Samchully MTB Championships in Korea (1600 competitors) and among many other highlights visiting the top Moots shop in Korea, Han Sung Bike in downtown Seoul. Like most successful Moots dealers in the US Han Sung know the Moots story frontwards and backwards, the owner rides a Moots and the shop stocks Moots complete bikes and frames on the floor, 14 in fact during my visit! They had 5 Moots built up in a variety of models and I was happy to personally deliver them a new Moots shop banner. If you are in town stop by and say hello, and ogle over all those pretty Moots in one place.

Melt down…..

As in snow melt down.....We have been hitting temps in the 70's for the past week or so, its music to the ears for mountain biking in these parts. When we get 400+ inches of snow during the winter that seems to last forever around here, we really look forward to this time of year. Each day there is a trail that opens, someone takes it upon themselves to go out for an adventure ride to see how far they can ride trail until a snow bank or snow field turns them around. It gets better and better each day.

The photo above shows the face of the ski area. Local lore says that when the two dirt patches touch each other the runoff is at its peak...it's a win/win.....the boaters are happy as well as the mountain bikers.

Lots of grins around here!

Team Dicky is coming to town……

Our resident SE PRo has been picked as guest blogger for the Breck Epic. The stage race takes place in early July. Take a read and follow along as Rich prepares for the Epic......

Follow: HERE

What Brad is on……..

I’m calling for a UCI pee test given that our resident factory crusher is undefeated on his Gristle Ybb. 3 FOR 3, 2 Mountain State Cups: cat 1, then this last weekend crushed it again in the Front Range 50. Could it just be the bike? No, Brad would crush in a *ss kicking contest with both legs tied behind his back, but I’m sure it doesn’t hurt. I’m very fond of the 29/26 inch wheel format myself and have been riding one since the first prototype was built at Moots….wait, I’m still on that very frame…..anyway, Brad is super motivated this year to bring the pain to all. This is the very bike that was at the Handbuilt Show in Indy back in February. Not only a show piece but really built to get hammered. Here’s the breakdown of the bike he’s doing it on:

Gristle Ybb

King Inset

Fox F29 fork (80mm)

XTR groupo (he likes dual control)

Stans rims w/ DT 190 hubs (silly light)

Moots stem & post (bomber & stiff)

Total bike weight: 22 lbs, with pedals & cages.

Thanks Govna’

It's nice to know some of the big guys are watching out for us small guys on bikes. Good to see something that should be common sense turned into law.

Ritter in Springs today to sign bill protecting rights of cyclists

May 11, 2009 - 10:03 AM
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Gov. Bill Ritter plans to sign a bill here today aimed at protecting the rights of cyclists.

The measure (Senate Bill 148) requires that drivers give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing or risk a $110 ticket.

Anyone who throws an object at a cyclist could be charged with a class 2 misdemeanor. That carries a fine of between $250 and $1,000 and a possible sentence of three to 12 months in jail.

The bill was sponsored by a bipartisan pair of avid cyclists - Republican Sen. Greg Brophy and Democratic Rep. Mike Merrifield. It will take effect Aug. 5.

The governor plans to sign the bill along with six others at Penrose Library.


Good work!

Moots & Franks Demo Day……..

On May 12th 2009 Moots will be working with Franks Cyclery of Raliegh, NC for a day of demos. David Dietrich (Moots sales) will be on hand with the Moots sprinter van and many Moots demos. The demo event will be held at Lake Crabtree County Park. The demo day will run from 10 am until 7 pm. Please bring a drivers license & credit card to demo bikes.

Bikes at the demo day:


17" Zirkel
20" Zirkel
19" MootoX ybb
20 MootoX ybb
16.5 Mooto XZ
18 Mooto XZ
19 Mooto XZ
20 Mooto XZ
Gristle
52 Vamoots

Come out & demo a Moots and chat with Frank & Dave.

Hope to see you there!

DSG……

The waters have been muddied. Reports of 100 pound bikes, 5 hour laps times and broken off drive trains are mostly true. Matty P filled me in this morning of the carnage that took place between Saturday morning at 9:00 am to Saturday night at 9 pm…..not pretty. His personal account of the race was pretty horrifying, first lap one hour fifteen …second lap three hours forty five minutes, third lap….five hours? OUCH! The Moots 3 member team, racing the 4 person event, experienced the mud in apocalyptic proportion. The week leading up to the race the area had 7+ inches of rain fall and just as the starting gun went off it started falling again.

It seems most people soldiered on through the nasty. Some starting drinking beer early, some went home and reports of some crying are not out of the question.

Rich Dillens account can be read: HERE

Cyclingnews.com can be read: HERE

Early to bed, early to rise……….

I can't recall the saying off hand but I'm pretty sure it ends with healthy, wealthy and wise. This morning Brad and I did our best to hit the healthy part. The other two are TBD at the moment. We made plans to be on the road bikes at 6:30 am to hammer out a loop of 70 ish miles with about four thousand feet of climbing within those miles. A crushingly beautiful morning in Steamboat to say the least. Starting temp was around 30 degrees, no wind and those blues skies that make anyone with a camera shoot like a pro. Clothing required: knee warmers, arm warmers, wind vest, cool weather gloves, cycling cap for me (I have no insulation up there) power bars, money...the usual stuff.

This route takes in a few classic sleepy/rural towns in Northwest Colorado.....at about 30 miles in we went through Phippsburg, a small no stop light town that is mainly a stopping point for the coal trains that come and go through the area. Once we were just about out of cell phone coverage Brad gets a call at 8 am from the factory saying no power to building. It's really hard to weld titanium when you have no power if you know what I mean.... Brad makes a few calls and gets things set to right.....We continue on our ride passing through Yampa (Gate way to the Flat Top Mountains) and then head back north towards Oak Creek (again, no stop lights, pretty sleepy) once a mining town. Coffee and a donut at Judy's Donut House then back on the bikes with 30 or so miles to ride. In those miles are 5 climbs and a coal mine...not much else out there, random Antelope, Hawk and road kill. This time of year is special in the mountains; low valleys are green, streams bursting with cold water, and snow still very deep up high. Scenic for sure.

We finish the ride and after a quick stop at home for a shower, food and shot of coffee it's off to work for the day. Minds recharged, legs hammered, ready to work.

A photo account of the ride: HERE

DSG, three days and counting

Late yesterday the Moots Sprinter van headed East with endurance driver/rider Matty P at the wheel. Matty is getting a rep around here as the long haul trucker driver type. Able to put down 15+ hours at a pull, armed with Red Bull, carrots and a map. He’ll be rolling into Fayetteville, TN by Thursday afternoon for a VIP dinner with the race promoter and invited guests. At the moment the race registration is up around 370 racers for the weekend event. Weather forecast is calling for hard rain to pass through (again) today with a drying spell just in time for the event. Returning races say that after a lap or two the course will be rolled out to tacky goodness.

As I write this the SE Moots Team is packing provisions for the weekend and heading towards the race venue. DSG is pulling is some top names again this year, Dillen, Hoffman, Rusch, Sawicki, Jeremiah Bishop, Marenchin, Castle, Swindall, Schaper, Queen and Scott. They will all toe the line come Saturday, twinkies in jersey pockets, refreshing liquids in bottles, mud tires installed, check, ready to race.
If you can make it please stop in and say hi as our dynamic trio, mans the Moots booth and throws down some beers….I mean laps.

DSG, the count down begins….

Over the last several weeks we have been flying the Dirt Sweat and Gears banner on our home page. A fine upstanding dirt event just south of Nashville, TN. Moots has signed on for a two year partnership in what is fast becoming a must attend event. Here at Moots we are loading the Moots demo wagon, beer garden tent and most anything else we can fit into one large sprinter van and heading to the south east for what will be a great time of bike racing craziness.

At the event will also be the newly formed Moots SE Grassroots mountain bike team. Based largely on single speeds the 8 person team has been tearing up the SE regional races. The main ring leader of this group is Rich Dillen. AKA.....Team Dicky. Moots will also field a factory direct team for the 4 person event, doing it with only 3, because that's how we count. El Presidente Rob, Sales hombre Dave, and supremo welder Matty P will be taking turns on the course and manning the Moots booth in between laps.

Over the next couple of days we'll bring you some insight to the SE TEAM and events that will follow the racing.

Pictured above Rich D gettin' rad.

Back in the Saddle…..

Our extended weekend came to a close yesterday with a drive from Moab to Steamboat. From sun, wind and sand to clouds, rain and snow....a semi-let down after living in shorts and t-shirts for a few days....but that's the reality of mud season.

The Moots crew made it through the trip with only a minor about of skin being lost. Not too bad for the first mountain bike ride of the spring.

A shot of Sam on UPS (Upper Porcupine Single track) with Castle Valley in the background.

More to come......

Desert Bound….

Oh my. The time has come for our much anticipated company spring trip to Moab. That's right; the entire Moots facility is shutting down for a day (Friday April 24th) for a 3 day pow wow in the warmth of Moab. We are heading out en-mass to ride, camp, soak in the sun, ride, have some cold "liquids" and did I mention ride? Over the last week good Moots folk have been tuning their rigs; building new rigs...the mood is downright giddy around here. After getting over 400 inches of snow again this year you can understand the feeling one gets come spring. I know I'm about to crawl out of my pasty white skin with excitement. Since the ski area closed 2 weeks ago town has been very quite. This is what we call mud season. Trails are still buried under a ton of snow, road biking is in full swing in the valley, but there is an itch that needs scratching and it requires dirt and sun to do the trick.

Not only are most of the 20 some Moots crew heading out, most of us are bringing our families as well. In some ways I feel sorry for the other campers in the area, but hey what's camping without some run-ins with the unsavory types?

If you happen to Moab this weekend keep an eye out for this crew. We've all signed waivers and can't be held accountable for our actions.

Next week I'll post the photos and accounts of who crashed & burned, who snores the loudest and how we avoided the Utah liquor laws.....

Until then, be good.

Earth Day….

Happy Earth Day!

Not to get all preachy and such, I thought I'd throw up a nice photo of Mother Earth. It's a pretty planet don't ya think? We should no doubt do all we can to take care of her. whatever you might do; pick up trash, ride the bike to work instead of driving the car, take the kids outside and plant something, get out and stand under the stars, , enjoy the big blue ball it’s the only one we have.

What I ride!

My 20" MXz all freshly built and built up with:
XT (because at the heart of it I'm a beer and pizza kind of guy)
DT 29er wheelset with Maxxis Ignitor 29 x 2.2 and tubes (for now)
Fox F29 100mm
Chris King Red sotto voce headset on top of a 20mm Moots ti headset spacer
Salsa carbon 11 degree sweep bulge bar strapped onto a Moots Open Trail
380 layback Cinch seatpost holding up a WTB Ti saddle
ODI 'Steve Peat' grips to put the finshing touch on the Captain America color-scheme
Time pedals

In all likelihood her maiden voyage will be Porcupine Ridge on Saturday...now that's the way to break in a bike!

What we ride….

Since its spring and we are all trying our best to get some miles in I thought it might be fun to show you what we are riding at the Mothership. It varies throughout the shop from person to person. Some on road bikes all the time, some on cross bikes for dirt road love, and some are traveling to Fruita to get rolling on dry trails.
Pictured above is the first bike on this topic. I've had this frame since it went to Interbike as a show bike in 2005. It has served as my primary race day bike since then. Always set up with a single ring, no water bottle bosses, no front der routing. It's been to Belgium and will always hold a special place in my heart. This year it gets moved into the back up bike role. Over the winter I had Brad add triple stops so I can run a front der, and added the standard water bottle bosses for long dirt road epics, a fresh reblast job and new decals. It also made the leap to Sram with Red levers, Rival front and rear ders, my older Campy 9sp was getting old and parts harder to find.

The total spec:

Frame: 56.5 Psychlo X SL (Reynolds 6/4 seamless ti tube set) (custom 6/4 oversized monostay)
Fork: Alpha Q CX20
Levers: Sram Red
Ders: Sram Rival
Bar: Deda 31.8 Newton
Stem: Moots Open Road 31.8 110 x -6
Hanger: IRD long drop
Head set: King
Crank: Rival Compact
Brakes: TRP Euro AL with in line adjust pads and straddle adjust
Post: Moots Cinch Post Straight
Wheels: Older Kysriums
Tires: Jack Brown 33.3333333
Saddle: Fizik Airone'
Cages: King stainless
Pedals: Time Atac Ti
Bar Tape: Sram Frogs

Weight: About 17-18 lbs.

To me this really speaks volumes on how durable and what a value titanium frames are, 4-5 years of hammering the crud out of this bike on cross courses and it still rides and handles like a dream. I know cross races are not the longest events out there, but I figure it's been in 15 races per year on average over 5 years, so that's 75 races, plus some training time.....and now it's going to see even more time, more miles as my go to dirt road bike and primary cross training bike come the real season.

More to come....Matt has been ever so patently building his new MXZ, Dave has a new Mooto X Ybb coupler 1 x 9, Kassi has a new Zirkel coming as well.....

You gotta love spring.

ART CRANK….

If you happen to be in Denver this weekend go check out ART CRANK. Feedback from the Minneapolis show was great. Nice work at very reasonable prices.

Cool bike art is hard to pass up.

enjoy!

Geoff’s space

My inbox is a mess, the exact opposite of Geoff's space. Geoff lives in Rockford, IL, a huge fan of Moots and Nordic skiing. As seen in the photo, he's rolling on a Psychlo X & Compact SL. He has been a regular guest in our local Tuesday night road rides over the last couple of summers. Always nice to have him visit the home office.

Excited for Spring!

Yep we're all rared up and ready to roll! We're psyched, we're rip snortin', we're, uh, hello son? Wake up there boy!

A World Champion amongst us……

Last night was like a lot of Tuesday nights in Steamboat and for that matter throughout the country. We have our group road ride that rolls out at 5:30ish…..30-60 cyclists, friends, arch rivals and a WORLD CHAMPION? No not Lance, however he is in Colorado according to his twitter account, just down the way in Asspen. But our own home town World Champion….Todd Lodwick. He has just returned from his season of Nordic ski racing at the World Cup level. He won the World Championships in the mass start and individual events…..all of that after coming out of retirement last year. He rode with us last year and even did a couple of our local town mountain bike series races in preparation for his Nordic campaign. He has been so close in the past to those victories, but never got that gold. Now he’s into summer mode of maintaining fitness, staying healthy and being with his 2 kids. He’s also got his eye on the Winter Olympics in Vancouver, BC. Needless to say the guy was motivated to come back and take care of unfinished business….which he took care of in fine fashion. Nice guy, always fun to ride with…..glad to have him in our little peloton.

De Ronde….

This short video clip pretty much sums it all up…..pain, weather, crashes, broken carbon bikes, broken dreams. It is finally here, the best week of racing (besides Christmas cross week)….Flanders, Ghent Wevelgem, Paris Roubaix…..you can bet I’ll be glued to VS on Sunday afternoon to watch what I can. Looks to be good weather for Sunday in Belgium….sunny and 60……I meant bad….hoping for rain.

The first ride…..

Do you remember the first time you rode a bike? Think back to that day…..kinda scared, excited, and nervous? You had pedaled the training wheeled bike for a while, watched the big kids in the neighborhood pedal by on their big kid bikes wishing you could do the same. The day finally came….dad or mom took off the training wheels and ran behind you until got the balance and pedal stroke going. Then it happened…you were off and riding. The feeling of freedom, sense of accomplishment; the next biggest thing in our young lives since learning to walk, which none of us remember.

I wanted to share with you this photo of my little guy doing just that. A couple of weeks ago he turned 5 and got a new bike. He has been using a run bike for the past year and a half, learning balance, cornering technique and stopping skills. I can’t tell you enough that this little run bike is the way to teach the young ones how to ride…..that’s another story. Take look at the expression on his face…..that is a day he’ll remember when he’s old and I’m long gone….the day he pedaled by himself. The good fellas at Orange Peel set me up with the perfect bike. I swung into their shop today to drop off a Moots and they all asked how it went….I told them the story of Ely’s first ride and they all smiled. They said that is what it’s all about….the first ride of a young kid.

Call it proud papa syndrome, bike geek dad, whatever…..it’s priceless and really that’s what it’s all about….

Congratulations Ely! Here’s to your first ride and many more to come!

What was your first memory of riding?

Your Space…..

Dave O. sent this in from his high altitude man space in Breckenridge, CO..... Lots of Moots in that garage. The pink decals were done by a local decal maker for his wife.....yep; she rides Moots too....keepin' it in the family. Dave has his eye on a Moots crosser for the upcoming season.....just think Dave, cross is only 6 months away!

Thanks for the support!

The Indesiderati…..

……In Italian it literally means “The uninvited”. We’ve all been there, a party, trespassing on private land (by accident of course) and maybe even a wedding. This is a name that a team of riders is using to push, bully and bribe their way into RAPHA’S gentlemen’s ride. The history of the Gentlemen’s ride is fairly short, but will over time gain so much more status as the way rides/races should go off. This particular ride starts in Mount Hood Oregon and finishes in Portland. 120 miles, none sanctioned, none marshaled style of ride. No entry fee, no prize list (other than beer at the finish). 6-8 teams consisting of 8 people each, all must check in together at a couple of check points along the way and then must finish together. Teams are handpicked, invitation only from RAPHA….. A real team effort amongst gentlemen right? RIGHT…..

So this band of riders was bound and determined to get into the ride. Invited or not. They got busy and built a web site and quickly put faces, names and personalities with each team member. Soon enough RAPHA relented and turned The Indesiderati to The INVITED. They are going this September to represent in the Gentlemen’s ride. Some ride Moots now, some will ride Moots by then. All good people and of course Gentlemen that fancy a good long ride.

Doughnut Cup……..

We don't have a watercooler(or vending machine!) at Moots to stand around and shoot the breeze, but we do have some sweet group rides. Take for example the newly created weekly Doughnut ride. A diverse Moots crew rallied the mid-day ride including Andy and Evan from Mitering, Jon C up in sales, Sam from Finish, Glen from production, Matt P from Welding and myself from finish. These rides are always good for lots of laughs, crazy attacks from Evan and plenty of bike talk. It is reason number 67 why moots is a great place to work: Everyone is crazy about bikes. That may sound very cliché for a bike company, but after two years working here I am convinced everyone at Moots has a special place in their heart for all things cycling. It does not matter if they are drilling your head badge, cutting your tubes, or taking your order. It is a unique aspect of Moots and certainly an important part of every bike we make. Stay tuned for more updates as the group rides heat up. Word on the street is Mike Sanders will be coming out of retirement to compete in the weekly Doughnut Cup!

Doughnut Cup Standings after week 1

Sprint winner - Corey (with an excellent leadout from Matt)

Most aggressive rider - Evan

Best Young Rider - Jon C.


-Corey

Pg 3

Old Moots

Pg 2

Oooooooold Moots catalog

Way, way back machine…take me to 1988?

ST. Patrick’s Day…….

Brad and good friend Eric Lobeck kicked off St. Patty's Day this morning with an early morning snow bike ride to the top of the Steamboat Ski area....elevation 10,312 feet above sea level. I'm pretty sure Eric is mainly German and Brad might be a little Irish....but really, who is not Irish in some way on March 17th? A little ride, a little Guinness....all in a days fun!

Enjoy.

For your Monday morning…..Ouch report.

I love bikes and bike racing, especially Cyclocross. From September to January it is my preferred mode of self inflicted pain on the bike.....I'm a junky, have been for more than 15 seasons. Glen L is my normal training/racing bike geeking out cross buddy. Over the last year Glen & I have had company on training rides and races in the form of our fellow Moots employees. They have picked up on my style of ''fun'' on a bike. They have learned to dismount, remount, suffer, laugh, glue tubulars and elbow their fellow racers into corners. I'd say they have embraced all things that are cross in my book. This last weekend just down the road our good friend Larry Grossman put on the first of two spring cross races: CULT CROSS. Andy, Sam and Matty P made the trip to get their cross on.....I think they are hooked. Anyway, I'll let Andy's description and photo do the rest of the talking......his dentist is gonna love him!

From Andy K:

So sunday was a blast! in 3rd place. 1st, and 2nd in my sights, and closing the gap. The new race bike was so smooth, and I think I could win this thing... Then the log barrier came again. I hopped it once started making the turn and BAM... I found out how hard those Deda bars really are! I smacked my face on the bars. I got up and realized my front teeth are chipped! Shit do I keep going or do I stop? I continue. I keep whipping the blood from my face when I pass the ref so I don't get pulled. I end up in 5th. I really wanted the win but I guess I get to race another day. I figured I would fill my 2 mentors in before I show up to work looking like hell. Attached is a pic. Glen I might be in late if I can get into the dentist in the morning. I cant wait for next week. I want the win... Maybe with a mouth guard this time. Cross on!!!!

I’ll pass on the message!

My Space…..

No not the social network….(although Moots will getting with the ages and soon be on Face book for all to follow, network and “POKE”)…..the space in my garage that is my late night, be with my bikes space. The above shot is what I walked into last night…..A MESS! A winters worth of items strewn about, neglected bike projects, ski wax, dried tubular glue on every surface, bikes that need some love. After the little ones hit the sack I spent time cleaning, arranging and working on the bikes that will be ridden as the spring approaches. Last night’s bike project was the road bike….my trusty Vamoots SL, vintage (2001 campy 10sp)….estimated mileage on the rig….25,000+ miles….what else can I say…it’s been bomb proof. A new chain & cassette once and a while, bars, saddles, tape, tires, wheels…it’s been rebuilt more times than I can count. Last night was new bar tape, fix the FSA crank that was about to fall off, lube chain, wipe down frame…..ready for action!

The Courchevel sign came from the top of the finish in 2000 during the tour….sadly enough we found it on the ground with Pantani’s name on it……R.I.P.

So, what’s YOUR SPACE look like? Send me a photo and description. Extra bonus points for Moots in work stand. I’ll post over the next couple of weeks.

Send to:

More time tonight in MY space

One last blast??

Today here in Steamboat we had a relapse of frigid temps. On the way into work today I optimistically road my Vamoots with my standard vintage Burley Design yellow plastic rain pants. About half way to the shop my plastic pants froze and my head hurt, like when you eat ice cream too fast. I rolled into work and someone says….”you like that cold”?....minus 1! Ouch. It looks as this might be one of the last cold snaps for awhile for us…..I really hope so.
So as we hope for warmer weather and dream of riding those first few hundred miles of the season, I have work to do. Yes, here at Moots as well as the mounting pile of bikes at home that are in need of love before the real riding can begin. So I’ll be arming myself with “provisions” and heading to the garage over the next couple of nights to spend time with the fleet. First and foremost the place needs a cleaning….wheels, tubular glue, flat tires run amuck….ski gear and general winter time stuff all over the place..next; fix bikes…… Bar tape for some, new King BB for the mountain bike, total rebuild for the dirt road cross bike….and less I forget to tune the better half’s bikes….the ones that really matter most.

Over the weekend one of our little people is turning 5….guess what he’s getting? Yep, new bike. Happy birthday Ely!

So for now we can look at the snow covered mountains, dream of warm summer days, road rides and single track.

Above a photo to remind ourselves what it looks like without 315 inches of snow.

COME ON SPRING!

March Thaw…..

ah....good weather here in Steamboat. This time of year we get days that start to push 40 to 50 degrees.....feels downright balmy after a long winter. Much of the shop got out today for a spin....small groups and solo rides. The paved roads are open and the dirt is starting to dry.

The cross base miles start now. Once the time change happens this weekend we are looking at after work rides to start to picking up. Tuesday night worlds are less than a week away.

And so it begins.......

Happy riding!!

The NAHBS goodies from us…

A quick post of our version of the King In Set....on Brads new Gristle Ybb.

22 pounds of ripping race bike....

More to come....

Record NAHBS

Word on the floor today from the NAHBS is a record was set for the 5 years the show has been running. Friday started with really good traffic and tons of Moots fans traveling from all points to stop in at the booth. I had help from our local Indy dealer (NEBO RIDGE CYCLERY) in the form of Jonathan Juillerat ...expert fitter, trail guy and cycling community stand out....this guy knows everyone in the area. Friday was to be but a warm up for what Satuday would bring. MASSIVE crowds greeted us from open to close. Rob made it in Friday night and manned the booth with me all day. It was non-stop action with little time to drink water, eat or make it to the bathroom. Talk about fun! Seriously, meeting so many people that made the trip to see the art work that was in the building was really cool. Draw a 6 hour drive circle around Indy and you get a massive amount of bike riders. And yes, Mootsboy stopped in to say hi. I can report he is in good spirits and even had a smile on his face....nice. By the end of the day my feet were screaming and ready for a sit down, but duty called and I pressed onto the evenings "secret party"...a non sanctioned event that rocked. Today was great as well...smaller crowds but great......

I have a 4:30 am wake up call for a plane ride home......I'll be glad to be there.

I took over a hundred photos today and will put them up soon.....for now a shot of the crowd from Saturday.

Bike Art & NAHBS

The first day of NAHBS was nuts. The floor was full of people all day long. Things got underway at 8:30 am with a "sermon" from Brother Dawn Shepard of Co-motion Cycles. Dwan battled back from cancer last year and we are very lucky and blessed to have him with us today. Opening words from Don Walker who puts this all together and we were off to our booths for a busy day of meeting people and talking bikes. I managed to slip out of the booth for a few minutes to eat and found this wall of bike art done by local school kids. So far it's really the only thing I've seen outside the booth. Hopefully Saturday I get my chance to cruise the isles a bit.

Through the storm..

Late yesterday I arrived at the North American Handbuilt Show in Indy. The drive from Chicago was rough...wind, rain, hail, thunder and lightening. The photo is what is looked like for about 40 miles of the drive out the front of the van. I had to drive slow to say the least. Dodging pot holes through the storm made things even more of a challenge.

Moots booth is set up with some sweet items to show. Taking a quick walk around the show before leaving last night, I do have to say this industry has some AMAZING craftsmen and women! It's gonna be a great show.

I've got the Moots camera charged up and ready!

Check, 1, 2, check…is this on??

Lordy, Lordy Eric the Red turns 40!

Sorry about that little rhyme, but I just could not help myself. I'm also a little late in posting this tidbit about our good friend, co-worker and master machinist. Born: Eric Hindes in Whiteplains, New York in 1969. Eric started life out with an immediate impact on this family. The day he was born he caused his dad to lose his job because he took time off to witness this guy come into the world. Nice work buddy. Eric was lucky enough to be born into a family that really embraced the bicycle. His parents have ridden for as long as his 40 year old brain can remember. His first bike was a Red Vista with drop bars and a coaster brake. Spending much of his life in Iowa has given him a dead pan sense of humor that most don't catch onto right away, but when you do catch on its pretty side splitting. Leading up to the big 4-0 all of us as Moots had been contacted by his better half....the plan? Tubing at night. Perfect for the forty year old kid in your life! We gathered at the local tubing hill (with back packs filled with beer and......cookies) and commenced to acting like kids. Some were hurt, some were buzzed....all had a great time. From there the party moved to the one of many local watering holes. The rest I hope for Eric was a blur.

Eric is an Aquarius which makes perfect sense: (from my Google search)

The Water Carrier (this is a noble role in cycling)
Traditional
Aquarian Traits:
Friendly and humanitarian
Honest and loyal
Original and inventive
Independent and intellectual

On the dark side....
Intractable and contrary
Perverse and unpredictable
Unemotional and detached

Favorite show/band: Flight of the Concords
Dog: Miles the Routt county ridge back

So yep, Eric is 40, welcome to the club and keep this in mind.......40 IS the new 20!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BUDDY!

Happy Winter Carnival 2009…

As is tradition in Steamboat Springs, we have Winter Carnival the first week of February. It's now in its 96th year and still going strong. It's a full on celebration of winter from one of the snowiest spots around and since the rodent in Pennsylvania saw his shadow this last week, we might as well embrace winter for six more weeks. The events include everything from ski jumping, bike dual slalom, horse pulled skiers, the famous marching band on skis and of course the LIGHTED MAN! This year the carnival runs from February 4-8th. Saturday night will feature jumping by our local ski patrol through the fiery hoop, with a killer fireworks show and to end the evening the Lighted Man will make two runs down the face of Howelson Hill.

Typical winter carnival nights include friends, kids and “adult beverages”. I hope to catch some of the Moots crew taking part of the bike dual slalom…..I’ll post pics on Tuesday.

HAPPY WINTER!

The other Super Bowl this weekend..!!

The Super Bowl of Cyclocross....... This weekend things will be going off in Hoogerheide, The Netherlands. The season will reach its biggest annual race in the quaint small Dutch town. It's the highest point for miles around and the only piece of land that has tree coverage as well. Down off the ridge is reclaimed land that at one point was the sea. Just about 3 years ago I stood along the course and watched the giants do battle. They use the main street through town as the start/finish area and the surrounding landscape for the rest of the race. If you Google Earth the town and zoom in you can see the tracks that surround the town! They have been worn into place from years of using pretty much the same layout. Tradition. Classic. Demanding, are all words I would use to describe this course. It sounds like it will be a fairly hard surface as my buddy from The Netherlands says it's been hovering around freezing, with not much rain in sight. That can all change in the blink of an eye. Rain would mean a slug fest at more humane speed, dry will mean cross eyed fast. While there that year I stood next to radar sign on the longer pavement stretch and saw speed of over 50kph flash on the sign! A cool 35mph plus to you & I.
What a time it will be for those lucky enough to be there....waffles in the morning, frites for lunch, gluwine (warm wine) and of course the beer. Similar to an outdoor rock show. People passed out in the fields, passionate fans run amuck! Gotta love it!

There's loads of info out there on the web so I'll spare you the links except for one:
MUD AND COW BELLS
take a look and if you up early on Sunday morning follow Greg's links to the live coverage.

My prediction:
Men
1- Lars Boom
2-Sven Nys
3- Stybar

Women
1-Compton
2-Van deBran
3-Georgia Gould

Should be Super!