Am I going to wear a YAJA on my Saturday morning ride with my pals? On my May evening after work training ride? Oh fuck no. On that pitch black, pouring down rain Seattle morning commute from the unlit ‘burbs and equally pitch black, pouring down rain ev… »

Beer and Bikes. And Looking Magnificent. – there is nothing else. »

Thank you for the inspirational article. It shames me to think that I was feeling sorry for myself at the end of last night’s rainy 7.5 C. ride.  Rule #9?  My arse. Bernard Hinault’s ride was Rule #9. »

Triathletes are well known for their chronically overheated shoulders.  Good to see that this guy has that under control.  (BTW, I cannot bear to re-post that photo.) »

@NateCampagnolo generally doesn’t do 12-27 AFAIK, just 11- or 12-25. The 13-tooth versions are the options if you want a bigger cog. Wrong you are.  I run 12-17.  Your options are: 11-23t 11-25t 12-25t 12-27t  12-29t 12-29 requires an e… »

After much debate and consideration (read: we got piss drunk after a ride, and started thinking about the next ride) and in full cooperation with the Keepers, we announce the first Stage Cogal, July 27 and 28, 2013 in Packwood, WA.

We adhere strictly to the guiding principles of The Cogal: free to all, open to all. These events are about community, and our love of the Bike. And of suffering. To those ends, even the casual observer will see what we have planned for routes is, in a word, a motherfucker.

Cogals shall be long. And they are all about the bike. It is what you are doing that day. Well, we have extrapolated that to The V-to-V concept on this one, mates. V-to-V: volcano to volcano. These rides are not only long, but we tossed in some vertical. I, for one, am not a climber. But when it is What I Am Doing That Day, it will get it done (I roll a 180mm 50×34 compact connected to a 11×28 for just such emergencies.) As a 2 day stage Cogal, it is what you are doing that weekend.

Day V1 is Packwood to Windy Ridge overlooking (and in) the blast zone of Mt. St. Helens. This route is generally used by a local bike club as a “High Pass Challenge” but we may modify their course a bit. In accordance with Rule #55, we will first ride UP the volcano, then we will ride DOWN the volcano. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331324

Day V2 is Packwood to Paradise on Ti’Swak (or Mt. Rainier to you non-natives) via Stevens Canyon road. I defy anoyone anywhere to find a more beautiful climb, starting at the Grove of the Founders on the east side of the national park. Only exceptions might be the Monuments, like Alpe d’Huez, or the Stelvio, but only because of their associated cycling lore. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331326

Once at the top, you have the option of a Rule #55 descent to Packwood. However, even the most casual observers of these routes will note a significant departure from any other Cogal:

They are out in the middle of fucking nowhere.

Thus, some support will be provided. On Day V1, some neutral, on the road support will be available, soley for transport of fuel and water. There simply are no cafes or shops, so to do these rides, the Keepers’ (or most likely the Keeper’s agent, @eightzero) will have arranged means to refuel for the participants. It may be van support, some caching of supplies, or a combination. On Day V2, there will be neutral fuel/water support on the climb, and an offer of transport of bags to the lodge at paradise the day of the ride. Some of us will be staying at the lodge to Get Shitfaced(tm) with a special keg, in full compliance with the rule of the Cogal requiring post-ride recovery malted beverage consumption. You may ride down, then drive up to join us if you wish, and/or then depart on your own schedule.

Note (and this is very important) the summer schedule for these places fills up quickly and early. Summers are short and spectacular in the PacNW, and people line up to take advantage. The Lodge at Paradise has limited availability, so sign up early. Make early plans for staying in Packwood. For out of towners, SeaTac and Portland International (PDX) offer easy access, but there is an entry fee to the National Park. There are several lodging options in Packwood. We plan an early start both days; and the ride starts on time.

Then prepare to meet The Man With The Hammer.

We ride. VLVV.

After much debate and consideration (read: we got piss drunk after a ride, and started thinking about the next ride) and in full cooperation with the Keepers, we announce the first Stage Cogal, July 27 and 28, 2013 in Packwood, WA.

We adhere strictly to the guiding principles of The Cogal: free to all, open to all. These events are about community, and our love of the Bike. And of suffering. To those ends, even the casual observer will see what we have planned for routes is, in a word, a motherfucker.

Cogals shall be long. And they are all about the bike. It is what you are doing that day. Well, we have extrapolated that to The V-to-V concept on this one, mates. V-to-V: volcano to volcano. These rides are not only long, but we tossed in some vertical. I, for one, am not a climber. But when it is What I Am Doing That Day, it will get it done (I roll a 180mm 50×34 compact connected to a 11×28 for just such emergencies.) As a 2 day stage Cogal, it is what you are doing that weekend.

Day V1 is Packwood to Windy Ridge overlooking (and in) the blast zone of Mt. St. Helens. This route is generally used by a local bike club as a “High Pass Challenge” but we may modify their course a bit. In accordance with Rule #55, we will first ride UP the volcano, then we will ride DOWN the volcano. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331324

Day V2 is Packwood to Paradise on Ti’Swak (or Mt. Rainier to you non-natives) via Stevens Canyon road. I defy anoyone anywhere to find a more beautiful climb, starting at the Grove of the Founders on the east side of the national park. Only exceptions might be the Monuments, like Alpe d’Huez, or the Stelvio, but only because of their associated cycling lore. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331326

Once at the top, you have the option of a Rule #55 descent to Packwood. However, even the most casual observers of these routes will note a significant departure from any other Cogal:

They are out in the middle of fucking nowhere.

Thus, some support will be provided. On Day V1, some neutral, on the road support will be available, soley for transport of fuel and water. There simply are no cafes or shops, so to do these rides, the Keepers’ (or most likely the Keeper’s agent, @eightzero) will have arranged means to refuel for the participants. It may be van support, some caching of supplies, or a combination. On Day V2, there will be neutral fuel/water support on the climb, and an offer of transport of bags to the lodge at paradise the day of the ride. Some of us will be staying at the lodge to Get Shitfaced(tm) with a special keg, in full compliance with the rule of the Cogal requiring post-ride recovery malted beverage consumption. You may ride down, then drive up to join us if you wish, and/or then depart on your own schedule.

Note (and this is very important) the summer schedule for these places fills up quickly and early. Summers are short and spectacular in the PacNW, and people line up to take advantage. The Lodge at Paradise has limited availability, so sign up early. Make early plans for staying in Packwood. For out of towners, SeaTac and Portland International (PDX) offer easy access, but there is an entry fee to the National Park. There are several lodging options in Packwood. We plan an early start both days; and the ride starts on time.

Then prepare to meet The Man With The Hammer.

We ride. VLVV.

That must be one hell of a tandem team! I get grief from Seattle Volominati for riding a tandem at all – let alone riding one at a Cogal. »

Frank, With regard to the lack of French disdain, perhaps they’ve mellowed. In the mid 1970′s during my high school years I lived just outside of Brussels.  I’ll never forget the time my brother and I were ordering dinner in a restaurant in Paris.  Half … »

Easy EZ, good things come to those who persevere… »

Must Have Socks. (also, finally going to get around to getting a zwarte V jersey while I’m at it…) »

After much debate and consideration (read: we got piss drunk after a ride, and started thinking about the next ride) and in full cooperation with the Keepers, we announce the first Stage Cogal, July 27 and 28, 2013 in Packwood, WA.

We adhere strictly to the guiding principles of The Cogal: free to all, open to all. These events are about community, and our love of the Bike. And of suffering. To those ends, even the casual observer will see what we have planned for routes is, in a word, a motherfucker.

Cogals shall be long. And they are all about the bike. It is what you are doing that day. Well, we have extrapolated that to The V-to-V concept on this one, mates. V-to-V: volcano to volcano. These rides are not only long, but we tossed in some vertical. I, for one, am not a climber. But when it is What I Am Doing That Day, it will get it done (I roll a 180mm 50×34 compact connected to a 11×28 for just such emergencies.) As a 2 day stage Cogal, it is what you are doing that weekend.

Day V1 is Packwood to Windy Ridge overlooking (and in) the blast zone of Mt. St. Helens. This route is generally used by a local bike club as a “High Pass Challenge” but we may modify their course a bit. In accordance with Rule #55, we will first ride UP the volcano, then we will ride DOWN the volcano. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331324

Day V2 is Packwood to Paradise on Ti’Swak (or Mt. Rainier to you non-natives) via Stevens Canyon road. I defy anoyone anywhere to find a more beautiful climb, starting at the Grove of the Founders on the east side of the national park. Only exceptions might be the Monuments, like Alpe d’Huez, or the Stelvio, but only because of their associated cycling lore. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331326

Once at the top, you have the option of a Rule #55 descent to Packwood. However, even the most casual observers of these routes will note a significant departure from any other Cogal:

They are out in the middle of fucking nowhere.

Thus, some support will be provided. On Day V1, some neutral, on the road support will be available, soley for transport of fuel and water. There simply are no cafes or shops, so to do these rides, the Keepers’ (or most likely the Keeper’s agent, @eightzero) will have arranged means to refuel for the participants. It may be van support, some caching of supplies, or a combination. On Day V2, there will be neutral fuel/water support on the climb, and an offer of transport of bags to the lodge at paradise the day of the ride. Some of us will be staying at the lodge to Get Shitfaced(tm) with a special keg, in full compliance with the rule of the Cogal requiring post-ride recovery malted beverage consumption. You may ride down, then drive up to join us if you wish, and/or then depart on your own schedule.

Note (and this is very important) the summer schedule for these places fills up quickly and early. Summers are short and spectacular in the PacNW, and people line up to take advantage. The Lodge at Paradise has limited availability, so sign up early. Make early plans for staying in Packwood. For out of towners, SeaTac and Portland International (PDX) offer easy access, but there is an entry fee to the National Park. There are several lodging options in Packwood. We plan an early start both days; and the ride starts on time.

Then prepare to meet The Man With The Hammer.

We ride. VLVV.

After much debate and consideration (read: we got piss drunk after a ride, and started thinking about the next ride) and in full cooperation with the Keepers, we announce the first Stage Cogal, July 27 and 28, 2013 in Packwood, WA.

We adhere strictly to the guiding principles of The Cogal: free to all, open to all. These events are about community, and our love of the Bike. And of suffering. To those ends, even the casual observer will see what we have planned for routes is, in a word, a motherfucker.

Cogals shall be long. And they are all about the bike. It is what you are doing that day. Well, we have extrapolated that to The V-to-V concept on this one, mates. V-to-V: volcano to volcano. These rides are not only long, but we tossed in some vertical. I, for one, am not a climber. But when it is What I Am Doing That Day, it will get it done (I roll a 180mm 50×34 compact connected to a 11×28 for just such emergencies.) As a 2 day stage Cogal, it is what you are doing that weekend.

Day V1 is Packwood to Windy Ridge overlooking (and in) the blast zone of Mt. St. Helens. This route is generally used by a local bike club as a “High Pass Challenge” but we may modify their course a bit. In accordance with Rule #55, we will first ride UP the volcano, then we will ride DOWN the volcano. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331324

Day V2 is Packwood to Paradise on Ti’Swak (or Mt. Rainier to you non-natives) via Stevens Canyon road. I defy anoyone anywhere to find a more beautiful climb, starting at the Grove of the Founders on the east side of the national park. Only exceptions might be the Monuments, like Alpe d’Huez, or the Stelvio, but only because of their associated cycling lore. Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1331326

Once at the top, you have the option of a Rule #55 descent to Packwood. However, even the most casual observers of these routes will note a significant departure from any other Cogal:

They are out in the middle of fucking nowhere.

Thus, some support will be provided. On Day V1, some neutral, on the road support will be available, soley for transport of fuel and water. There simply are no cafes or shops, so to do these rides, the Keepers’ (or most likely the Keeper’s agent, @eightzero) will have arranged means to refuel for the participants. It may be van support, some caching of supplies, or a combination. On Day V2, there will be neutral fuel/water support on the climb, and an offer of transport of bags to the lodge at paradise the day of the ride. Some of us will be staying at the lodge to Get Shitfaced(tm) with a special keg, in full compliance with the rule of the Cogal requiring post-ride recovery malted beverage consumption. You may ride down, then drive up to join us if you wish, and/or then depart on your own schedule.

Note (and this is very important) the summer schedule for these places fills up quickly and early. Summers are short and spectacular in the PacNW, and people line up to take advantage. The Lodge at Paradise has limited availability, so sign up early. Make early plans for staying in Packwood. For out of towners, SeaTac and Portland International (PDX) offer easy access, but there is an entry fee to the National Park. There are several lodging options in Packwood. We plan an early start both days; and the ride starts on time.

Then prepare to meet The Man With The Hammer.

We ride. VLVV.

Deakus, I have a Brooks Swallow on my tandem (yes, I know, I know, but depending on the stoker’s mood, climbing on that thing can be a whole new kind of HTFU), and I love the saddle.  It has a remarkably similar feel to the Sella Flite on my single. If … »

RIP »

Oh you PNW  guys talk tough about your disregard for Rule #9 conditions.  Where were you last weekend? When the merest chance of rain was forecast for Whidbey Island all but four suddenly had a reason to stay home…  Weddings, exploding heaters, and McSqu… »

@Frank: “Is this you?” Hell no!  Do you think I’m some kind of perv; getting into a shower with a mountain bike?  Lord no, I only shower with the road bike.  You guys are a bunch of sickos! »

I am compulsive about keeping my bike clean and lubed.  I can’t think of a better way to wind down from a hard ride than by changing out of my bike shorts, opening a pint and cleaning lubricating my bike.  Only after that is done do I attend to taking my … »

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.

On 10/13/12, we return to the scene of the crime – the site of the very first Seattle Cogal in 2011. The Anniversary ride starts at V-past 9am, so plan ahead to be sure to get on the correct Mukilteo/Clinton ferry so as to arrive at the starting point in Langley with ample time for the obligatory pre-ride espressi. The route is planned to be the same as last year’s, and Merckx Willing, I will make it around the entire course now that my Jan sized ass has gotten a few more miles in 2011 that it did in 2012. We plan (as usual) a Casually Deliberate pace, but this really only serves to mean we will be regrouping for the people that don’t bring maps or that decide to drop @eightzero, their Garmin 705 armed buddy (I’m looking at you, @frank.) Pre-ride revelry on Friday will be discussed in the comments, as well as post ride amenities to be researched by @eightzero and Mrs/Dr Eightzero.

We ride. VLVV.