Buying a new bike

Well we are buying a new bike it's not for me, it's for my my son Ian. Last year he rode a bike we borrowed from the Milanowski family. Ian has grown at least 4 inches since last spring and that bike no longer fits him. So today we went over to VeloCity Cycles in Holland and talked to our coach Mike Clark. We got Ian all measured up and ended up ordering a Cannondale Synapse. (Yes, it's the Team bike.) It will probably be the middle of next week before it comes in, but once it does we'll post pictures of little Contador on his new ride.

Getting Ready

On Groundhog's Day we experienced a snowstorm unlike anything in these parts for over 30 years. 12" to 24" of snow fell, depending on where you were located. It took the better part of two days to dig everyone out. But today we are having our fourth consecutive plus 40 degree day. Yesterday the high temperature soared over 50. So that means thoughts are turning toward cycling outdoors.
There are many of our team mates who ride their bikes all winter long. Some even have studded snow tires. I'm not one of those folks. But the sunny skies and relatively balmy temps have got me itching to get back in the saddle. Plus it's almost time to sign up for this year's JDRF Ride. We have a team get together at New Holland Brewing Company on February 27th to discuss where our team is going this year. The early favorite is Death Valley, but Tuscon is gaining momentum. Then on March 7th we can officially sign up.
If you've ever though about riding with a great group of people and for a great cause now would be an excellent time to join us. You can get more details on our team by clicking here.

The history of the bicycle

Here's a link to a great article from Wired Magazine about the first bicycle. It was made of wood and didn't have pedals, a chain or brakes. But the basic concept was in place, all the back in 1818.

 Not exactly the carbon fiber we ride around on today is it?

Latest video

At the top of this page there is a video from JDRF that promotes the Ride program. At first glance it may look similar to what was there before, but this is an updated version for this year. My company, The Scheidel Group, created this video from the footage we shot for the documentary More Than 100 Miles: Riding to Cure Diabetes. This has been a fun project to work on and I really like the fact that we are a small part of helping to spread the word about finding a cure for Type 1 diabetes.