55+ Ride-Your-Age - Page 8

olduniman · 2010-07-25, 01:41 PM

A few days ago Bill and I completed our third annual unicycle ride to mark our upcoming 66th and 68th birthdays. As you know we belong to the furlong fraternity hence the distances are much shorter. 1 furlong is 201.2m so that 68 furlongs is only 13.7 km. Not much of a distance by some standards, but suitable for us. Next year in kilometers, we are telling ourselves.

colinoldncranky · 2010-07-25, 03:18 PM

It's enough to get uncomfortable if things aren't quite right - and that's far enough.

I'd love to be still riding in, say, twenty years time. Maybe by then my teenage kids will stop being embarrassed about Dad riding in funny shorts on a funny contraption and decide instead that it's cool.

I've no idea if I will make it but first I have to get to where you guys have got. And that'll be no mean achievement. Well done.

(I notice that you are doing those distances on normal wheel sizes too - that's gotta be worth an extra credit - I imagine many here are on 30 and 36" or geared wheels. Like you guys, I'll stick to around 24". If I'm in a hurry, that's what the car is for.)

Chrashing · 2010-07-25, 05:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by olduniman

A few days ago Bill and I completed our third annual unicycle ride to mark our upcoming 66th and 68th birthdays. As you know we belong to the furlong fraternity hence the distances are much shorter. 1 furlong is 201.2m so that 68 furlongs is only 13.7 km. Not much of a distance by some standards, but suitable for us. Next year in kilometers, we are telling ourselves.

While I do envy a bit those who do those century rides, I relate much better to a practical 13.7 km ride. I'm hoping you guys have a great time.

grampy1wheel · 2010-07-27, 02:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by olduniman

A few days ago Bill and I completed our third annual unicycle ride to mark our upcoming 66th and 68th birthdays. As you know we belong to the furlong fraternity hence the distances are much shorter. 1 furlong is 201.2m so that 68 furlongs is only 13.7 km. Not much of a distance by some standards, but suitable for us. Next year in kilometers, we are telling ourselves.

Congratulations Bill and Bob on another year's RYA-furlong ride. After you mentioned your RFA ride a few years ago I've tried to do an RFA ride each year as well. Last year I did a 1-day 59-furlong ride and rode 59km+ total over the summer. So far this year, my longest day-ride was 51-furlongs, but I've got my sights set on a 60-furlong day ride and a 60km riding total by mid-October.

Keep on riding, having fun and sharing your rides with us,
Bruce - Grampy1Wheel

goldan · 2010-07-28, 02:44 AM

oh crap...I'm 51...better look into something larger than my 20. Mileage is what I'm thinking for the workout and to quit smoking as well. But not new at at all. Started at 16.
Anyone wanna trade my Retro/Nuevo Restored Schwinn (was 24) 20", for a 26" or 29"?
p l e a s e

JBAB · 2010-07-29, 07:05 PM

Its time to join the club.
On July 16 I rode my age in kilometers. I chose to ride the Bakersfield Kern River Parkway bike path from Fairfax to Allen Rd. I began this trip from Yokuts park in Bakersfield, at about 7:30 a.m. going east. I figured I would go out to Hart Park, nonetheless at Derrel's Storage (fixed a flat tire here from a goat head thorn) there was no more bike path and only a highway with cars whizzing by really fast and dangerously. So I decided I would try another street nearby which was Fairfax, (it had a restaurant with a big Indian effigy) but it took me up a hill the wrong direction, through a really dry section, (pretty in a sense with all the dry grass) all the way to the 178 FWY. I got thirsty here so I stopped at an ARCO am/pm and got a 64 oz double big gulp pepsi. Then I turned around and went back by Panorama drive. Panorama drive was fun because it was all downhill for a couple of miles with a bike lane and the look over the bluff into the oil fields was amazing. Then I hooked back up with the bike path and went west to Allen Dr. Going east I enjoyed seeing a bunch of big white birds like pelicans in the river just standing in the river, maybe waiting for fish, who knows, and then all along the path going east I kept on seeing little bunny rabbits jumping out of the bushes and darting around. In between the rabbits I saw ground squirrels all over and ducks in the river. From Yokuts to Derrel's storage the view of the bluffs on the right was amazing and the view of the riverway refreshing. I enjoyed my ride, every couple of miles they had a park along the river side, which fun. Two times I went under the railroad tracks, went by a small lake where they were fishing, and by a lot of oil well equipment. But it was hot (100+), took me about five and a half hours, and toward the end my seat became so uncomfortable I had to stand up on the pedals and ride standing up about every five minutes, then I began to actually have fun standing on the pedals because to start circulation again at the seat area I would jump up and down on the pedals and attempt to still stand.
This is how I rode my 55.4 kilometers, now every body knows about one more enjoyable bike path in Kern County.
I did my ride with a 28" Sun, outfitted with a Torker DX Pro saddle, and crank arms about 6 1/4 inches long.

reinhart · 2010-07-30, 05:56 PM

Since selling our home a year ago and hitting the road, I've not done much significant riding other than a Canada Day Parade in Alma, New Brunswick as a Charlie Chapman character, and a couple of longer rides with Olduniman. But I've done a bit, in Toronto, Kingston, Montreal, Quebec City and Denmark. Now we've moved to Halifax and its time to settle down. And what a great unicycle city - flats, hills, great views from the Citadel, skateboard park, respectful drivers. I plan to do a lot more. If there are any Halifax riders on this forum maybe we can meet on the Common.
Talking distances, I do think that there is a difference between interest, dedication and obsession and I guess I'm closer to the first than the second. Regardless, I admire you all but don't know how you do it. I really enjoy reading about the cycling exploits, both long and short, having started so recently myself. And I always check for the photo, Geoff. What do you think of the chances to get us all together face-to-face? Now, that would be a coup!

But you won't get riding on those crazy narrow Brit roads in the rain!

Gotta go! Reinhart

monocyclism · 2010-07-30, 08:32 PM

Heres a general message to the 55+ Group to clear up a few minor foibles.

I am acutely aware that I have not updated the 55+ group photo with images of ‘Crashing’, ‘Dave E’, ‘M Blamer’ and ‘Gina' that were sent to me. Sorry dudes but the reason for this is my computer needed replacing and it was virtually impossible to work with image editing. Well celebration time ‘cos I ordered a new PC today that is powerful and fast enough to handle what I want to do so apologies for the delay but soon the job will be done.

Quote:

Originally Posted by JBAB

Its time to join the club. On July 16 I rode my age in kilometers.......

Well done JBAB thanks for coming back with a write-up on your ride. I relate to your comments about enjoying the scenery and wildlife – forms part of the pleasure right? Wonder if you have any photos to show of your exploits?

Quote:

Originally Posted by reinhart

.......Talking distances, I do think that there is a difference between interest, dedication and obsession and I guess I'm closer to the first than the second. Reinhart

At my age the only way I can get onto a 36 is to be closer to the third

Quote:

Originally Posted by reinhart

........I always check for the photo, Geoff. What do you think of the chances to get us all together face-to-face? Now, that would be a coup!

Reinhart

Yeah the next ‘issue’ of the Photo is set for a big upgrade. Re my above comment, really looking forward to getting my new PC next week then I can work on a new composition of poses for the 55+ Group Photo. I have a vague ambition to fly in your direction of the World before I'm too old maybe we will meet! Unfortunatley I didn't get organised enough to meet Wobbling Bear when I visitied France a few weeks ago. However, talking of ‘riding-your-age’ – I am contemplating my upcoming birthday ride this year. After my recent injury I think long distance is off for a few months. So hey! In keeping with Wobbling Bears previous suggestion of riding each others age I’m going to set off to ride his age soon. What say you Wobbling Bear – what unit of measurement shall we use?

Quote:

Originally Posted by reinhart

But you won't get riding on those crazy narrow Brit roads in the rain!

Reinhart

Actually I think you may be correct about narrow Brit roads. Over here what I would really like to ride on are the motorways!

colinoldncranky · 2010-07-31, 12:37 AM

JBAB, congrats. I hope the bum was OK for it.

colinoldncranky · 2010-07-31, 12:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chrashing

I relate much better to a practical 13.7 km ride. I'm hoping you guys have a great time.

I gather then that you are a commuter. Personally, I am more in awe of anyone that commutes and uses a bike (or uni in our case) as a utility to get around, day-to-day.

The extra long rides are just the icing on the cake. And besides, the distances add up mush faster as transport.

Actually, I think I might start a new thread for swapping details on commuting and errands on unis.

patmoore · 2010-08-05, 06:46 PM

Looking forward to the updated group photo!

It will still be a while before I can get back on a uni. My ACL reconstruction was five weeks ago and the recovery has been going great. Range of motion is 135 degrees (with some pain). I'll be ready before ski and snowboard racing season begin.

I'm cleared for biking but the prospect of potential damage from a UPD means I'll have to hold off for some time before I get back on a uni.

patmoore · 2010-08-06, 01:31 AM

Almost forgot. While I've been recuperating from surgery I've been working on a "recruitment" video for my ski club. The unicycling clip is all of two seconds toward the end (and the camcorder is aimed at my feet while pedaling) but the skiers among you might get a kick out of it anyhow. The accompanying song is terrific. I contacted the artist and got his permission to use his music.

VIDEO

wobbling bear · 2010-08-06, 10:20 AM

suggestion: add a Map (and a zoom approach) to show where Mt Laurel lies!
we will come!

colinoldncranky · 2010-08-06, 01:45 PM

I certainly recognised the Matterhorn. Must get back there someday.

Uniyouth · 2010-08-06, 10:17 PM

"I wish to belong to the fellowship of the wheel and become a peddle pusher, an old crank, without a training wheel."

YouTube- ‪muni Tucson Bowens...

2010-07-25, 01:41 PM	#106
olduniman Registered User Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Ontario Canada Age: 70 Posts: 132	Third Annual RYA A few days ago Bill and I completed our third annual unicycle ride to mark our upcoming 66th and 68th birthdays. As you know we belong to the furlong fraternity hence the distances are much shorter. 1 furlong is 201.2m so that 68 furlongs is only 13.7 km. Not much of a distance by some standards, but suitable for us. Next year in kilometers, we are telling ourselves. Attached Images __________________ +++++++++ Bob Riding for fun and Unicycle Training.xls

2010-07-25, 03:18 PM	#107
colinoldncranky Look mum, no training wheel! Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Perth WA Posts: 282	It's enough to get uncomfortable if things aren't quite right - and that's far enough. I'd love to be still riding in, say, twenty years time. Maybe by then my teenage kids will stop being embarrassed about Dad riding in funny shorts on a funny contraption and decide instead that it's cool. I've no idea if I will make it but first I have to get to where you guys have got. And that'll be no mean achievement. Well done. (I notice that you are doing those distances on normal wheel sizes too - that's gotta be worth an extra credit - I imagine many here are on 30 and 36" or geared wheels. Like you guys, I'll stick to around 24". If I'm in a hurry, that's what the car is for.) Last edited by colinoldncranky; 2010-07-25 at 03:24 PM.

2010-07-28, 02:44 AM	#110
goldan Old guys rule, Semper Fi Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Turlock Ca. Posts: 107	oh crap...I'm 51...better look into something larger than my 20. Mileage is what I'm thinking for the workout and to quit smoking as well. But not new at at all. Started at 16. Anyone wanna trade my Retro/Nuevo Restored Schwinn (was 24) 20", for a 26" or 29"? p l e a s e __________________ Live life full, Right up to the finish line, slidin sideways, in on one hand and screaming in defiance.

2010-07-30, 05:56 PM	#112
reinhart Oldbilly Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Wilton Ontario Canada Age: 68 Posts: 6	Time away Since selling our home a year ago and hitting the road, I've not done much significant riding other than a Canada Day Parade in Alma, New Brunswick as a Charlie Chapman character, and a couple of longer rides with Olduniman. But I've done a bit, in Toronto, Kingston, Montreal, Quebec City and Denmark. Now we've moved to Halifax and its time to settle down. And what a great unicycle city - flats, hills, great views from the Citadel, skateboard park, respectful drivers. I plan to do a lot more. If there are any Halifax riders on this forum maybe we can meet on the Common. Talking distances, I do think that there is a difference between interest, dedication and obsession and I guess I'm closer to the first than the second. Regardless, I admire you all but don't know how you do it. I really enjoy reading about the cycling exploits, both long and short, having started so recently myself. And I always check for the photo, Geoff. What do you think of the chances to get us all together face-to-face? Now, that would be a coup! But you won't get riding on those crazy narrow Brit roads in the rain! Gotta go! Reinhart

2010-08-05, 06:46 PM	#116
patmoore SEXagenarian Snowboard Racer Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Newington, CT Age: 66 Posts: 419	Looking forward to the updated group photo! It will still be a while before I can get back on a uni. My ACL reconstruction was five weeks ago and the recovery has been going great. Range of motion is 135 degrees (with some pain). I'll be ready before ski and snowboard racing season begin. I'm cleared for biking but the prospect of potential damage from a UPD means I'll have to hold off for some time before I get back on a uni. __________________ My Album "When you're over the hill, you pick up speed!" GoldenYearsGeek.com

2010-07-29, 07:05 PM	#111
JBAB Registered User Join Date: Jun 2010 Posts: 69	Its time to join the club. On July 16 I rode my age in kilometers. I chose to ride the Bakersfield Kern River Parkway bike path from Fairfax to Allen Rd. I began this trip from Yokuts park in Bakersfield, at about 7:30 a.m. going east. I figured I would go out to Hart Park, nonetheless at Derrel's Storage (fixed a flat tire here from a goat head thorn) there was no more bike path and only a highway with cars whizzing by really fast and dangerously. So I decided I would try another street nearby which was Fairfax, (it had a restaurant with a big Indian effigy) but it took me up a hill the wrong direction, through a really dry section, (pretty in a sense with all the dry grass) all the way to the 178 FWY. I got thirsty here so I stopped at an ARCO am/pm and got a 64 oz double big gulp pepsi. Then I turned around and went back by Panorama drive. Panorama drive was fun because it was all downhill for a couple of miles with a bike lane and the look over the bluff into the oil fields was amazing. Then I hooked back up with the bike path and went west to Allen Dr. Going east I enjoyed seeing a bunch of big white birds like pelicans in the river just standing in the river, maybe waiting for fish, who knows, and then all along the path going east I kept on seeing little bunny rabbits jumping out of the bushes and darting around. In between the rabbits I saw ground squirrels all over and ducks in the river. From Yokuts to Derrel's storage the view of the bluffs on the right was amazing and the view of the riverway refreshing. I enjoyed my ride, every couple of miles they had a park along the river side, which fun. Two times I went under the railroad tracks, went by a small lake where they were fishing, and by a lot of oil well equipment. But it was hot (100+), took me about five and a half hours, and toward the end my seat became so uncomfortable I had to stand up on the pedals and ride standing up about every five minutes, then I began to actually have fun standing on the pedals because to start circulation again at the seat area I would jump up and down on the pedals and attempt to still stand. This is how I rode my 55.4 kilometers, now every body knows about one more enjoyable bike path in Kern County. I did my ride with a 28" Sun, outfitted with a Torker DX Pro saddle, and crank arms about 6 1/4 inches long.

2010-07-31, 12:37 AM	#114
colinoldncranky Look mum, no training wheel! Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Perth WA Posts: 282	JBAB, congrats. I hope the bum was OK for it.

2010-08-06, 10:20 AM	#118
wobbling bear GranPa goes-a-wobblin' Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: European Union (S-W) Age: 64 Posts: 2,110	suggestion: add a Map (and a zoom approach) to show where Mt Laurel lies! we will come! __________________ One Wheel : bear necessity

2010-08-06, 01:45 PM	#119
colinoldncranky Look mum, no training wheel! Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Perth WA Posts: 282	I certainly recognised the Matterhorn. Must get back there someday.

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