Holiday Adventure Party for Indy Give

December 30th, 2012

Levitator at Holiday Adventure Party

Tomorrow, New Years Eve, is the last day to donate to Indy Give! Most of the charities get matching donations so your money will go even further. Not only that you get gifts for donations over of $50 or more. Go to the Indy Give! website for all the details. Here are direct links to the Indy Give! page for some of my favorites – Kids on Bikes, Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, Trails and Open Space Coalition and Rocky Mountain Field Institute.

On December 6th, 5 of the charities that are part of Indy Give! threw a great free party at City Rock to help raise money. The 5 charities were Medicine Wheel Trail Advocates, Trails and Open Space Coalition, Millibo Art Theatre, Rocky Mountain Field Institute and Kids on Bikes. They are some of the great local organizations that help give us outdoor places to play.

There were fresh adventure films, live performances, free beverages, great food and prizes. The performances included one of my friends that I rode many miles with as a teenager doing jumps and back flips on stilts. The party was brought by City Rock, New Belgium Brewing, and the Women’s Mountain Bike Association.

Here are some of the photos I took at the party. The complate Holiday Adventure Party for Indy Give photo set is here.

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 

Giving Back Through Bikes

December 2nd, 2010

A great idea never goes out of style. That’s why I’m partnering with World Bicycle Relief for the third year in a row.

The Chicago-based organization provides bicycles and bike technology and resources for people in countries impacted by poverty or natural disasters. Last year, WBR launched The Bicycles for Educational Empowerment Program, with the goal of providing 50,000 bikes to help Zambian children get to school. More than 7,000 bikes have been distributed in that program alone, and have drastically improved school attendance. The group also expanded operations in Zimbabwe and Kenya last year, and has sold more than 3,000 bikes to groups such as Care International.

This year, World Bicycle Relief is focusing on the power of a bicycle in the hands of a girl. The Bicycles for Educational Empowerment Program (BEEP) has partnered with the Zambian Ministry of Education to provide 5,000 bikes to 5,000 schools across that country. Seventy percent of the bikes will go to girls.

These are basic bikes and cost just $134. You can help purchase bikes by visiting UltraRob.com and clicking through to buy cycling and outdoor gear. From now through Dec. 25, I’m donating 10 percent of my site earnings to World Bicycle Relief. My donations over the last 2 years have helped purchase 23 bikes and I’m hoping to do even better this year.

And here’s the best part: Like the last 2 years, an anonymous WBR donor is matching this year’s donations, doubling the number of bikes to be given out.

Related Links

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 

Merry Christmas 2009 from UltraRob.com

December 24th, 2009

I hope you have a very Merry Christmas! Hopefully you have good times with family and friends and get some time to play with cool, new toys found under the Christmas tree. Also don’t forget the true reason we have Christmas.

UltraRob

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 

Gift Ideas for Mountain Bikers

December 16th, 2009

Still looking for Christmas gifts for the mountain biker in your life? If you procrastinate buying Christmas gifts like I do, time is running out. Here are a dozen gift ideas for mountain bikers.

You can get gifts in time for Christmas with standard shipping from most stores if you order today and some are guaranteeing like Huck n Roll and Performance Bike guarantee delivery if ordered early enough tomorrow. In past years many online stores have run specials on 2 and 3 day shipping for those that don’t order in time for standard shipping.

Crank Bros Multi 19 Tool

This multi-tool has everything you need for on the road or trail bike repairs. Not only does it have the standard hex wrenches and screwdrivers, it also has spoke wrenches and a chain tool. The chain tool doesn’t work as good as my stand alone ones but it’s saved me from walking many miles.

Garmin Edge 705

The Garmin Edge 705 is the ultimate cycling computer. It is a newer version of the Garmin Edge 305. They both have GPS and heart rate monitor and can be bought with an optional cadence sensor. The 705 adds a color screen and maps. With the topo maps you can get turn by turn directions even off road although it does try getting you back to the road. Read my Edge 705 review for more details about it.

Mountain Bikers Training Bible

Joe Friel’s The Mountain Bikers Training Bible is one of the best training guides out there. He explains periodization which is the basis of most training plans. He steps you through setting up a training plan for different goals. He has also written Cyclist’s Training Bible and The Triathlete’s Training Bible

RoadID

Safety is important when you’re out mountain biking. We always hope that nothing bad will happen and most likely it won’t. Still it’s good to have some ID on you if you’re injured and can’t talk. I’ve been using the wrist Road ID for a very long and don’t even notice I have it on. They also have ones that go on your ankle or shoe.

Mountain Bike Helmet

Another safety essential is a helmet. I used the Giro Pneumo for several years.

Hammer Gel

Your favorite cyclist needs something to fuel their rides. Hammer Gel is a great way and by buying it in a jug and using a flask, it’s good for the environment too.

CamelBak Rogue Hydration Pack

The Camelbak Rogue is the hydration pack I use the most. Actually I have two of them I like it so much so I can do a quick swap during long mountain bike races. It has enough storage space to carry a jacket, tubes, and my Crank Brothers multi-tool but doesn’t seem bulky. The 70 ounce bladder is big enough on most rides to get me to where I can refill. When I need to carry more gear and water, I use the Camelbak Blowfish.

Microflate

Using CO2 cartridges for flats during rides may not be the best for the environment but they sure make it easy to fix a flat. I only get a handful of flats even when I’m doing mega miles so it’s not that bad. There are CO2 inflators that are allow to control the pressure but I love the size and simpleness of the Microflate.

Floor Pump

A good floor pump is a must for any cyclist. You can’t go wrong with a pump from Park Tools. Some pumps have a single head that is supposed to work for both Presta and Shraedar valves. I’ve had a couple and weren’t happy with either one. I’d stick to a pump that has a dual head if you want both. I always use Presta valves on my bikes but my kid’s bikes have Shraedar

Pearl Izumi ThermaFleece Knee Warmers

I have a couple pairs of Pearl Izumi ThermaFleece Knee Warmers. They’re the perfect things for cool mornings or evenings. Some people prefer leg warmers. I like the Pearl Izumi ThermaFleece ones because the light fleece on the inside really makes a difference in staying warm

Pearl Izumi ThermaFleece Arm Warmers

The companions to knee or leg warmers are arm warmers.

Seat Pack

A seat pack is nice for carrying a multi-tool, spare tube and tire levers.

If none of the gear above is a good fit for your gift buying, check out the Cycling and Outdoor Gift Card Guide. Also, below are links to some more gift guides for even more gift ideas.

When you click through and buy these or other items this Christmas Season, you’ll be helping those less fortunate.

UltraRob

Related Links:

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 

Getting in the Mood for Gifting

November 25th, 2009

I love to give people gifts of gear that I have come to love. Among my favorite winter things this year (don’t read on if you think you’re on my gift list):

  • Outdoor Research Verglas gaiters. They’re lightweight and waterproof/.breathable. They have a sturdy strap that goes under your boot and Velcro that stays tight on your leg; and they stay put, with no sliding or twisting.
  • Yaktrax (for traction on snow and ice). If you don’t have these, I feel sorry for you. These babies go on my winter boots at first snow, and allow me to walk sure-footedly on sheer ice or crust.
  • Turtle Fur MFS (micro fur stretch) neck gaiter. If my neck is warm, I’m warm. When I’m warm, I’m happy.
  • REI mittens. Fleece liners, waterproof outers, downright cozy.
  • Victorinox One-Hand Sentinel Clip knife. My husband loves knives, and this one is his favorite. It’s simple and practical – just a serrated locking blade, tweezers, toothpick and clip. And the one-handed opening comes in handy on the trail.
  • SmartWool light hiker socks. Soft and warm; so comfy I want to wear them all the time. And they fit especially well in my winter hiking boots.

When you click through and buy these or other items this Christmas Season, you’ll be helping those less fortunate.

Deb Acord

Related Links:

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 

7 Cycling and Outdoor Gift Ideas

November 28th, 2008

People are searching for the perfect Christmas gift for their family and friends. If you’re searching for gifts for a cyclist or someone into outdoor activities, here are 7 things I have and love or would like to receive as a gift.

Update: 12 More Gift Ideas for Cyclists

Crank Bros Multi 19 Tool

This multi-tool has everything you need for on the road or trail bike repairs. Not only does it have the standard hex wrenches and screwdrivers, it also has spoke wrenches and a chain tool. The chain tool doesn’t work as good as my stand alone ones but it’s saved me from walking many miles.

SPOT Satellite Personal Messenger

The SPOT is one piece of gear I don’t have but have hiked with someone that has one. It is really nice for loved ones that are at home wondering if everything is alright while you’re in the backcountry. It’s a GPS unit that can send your location so others can view where you are on a map online. If you aren’t where you plan to be, you can send a signal that all is Ok. If something does go wrong you can send an emergency signal and rescuers will know your exact location.

Mountain Hardware Windstopper Hat

I like the soft feel of fleece for a hat. I’ve had a regular fleece hat but in the strong winds it doesn’t even feel like I have it on. Not so with my Mountain Hardware Windstopper one. It’s nice and toasty even in the cold wind.

CamelBak Rogue Hydration Pack

The Camelbak Rogue is the hydration pack I use the most. Actually I have two of them I like it so much so I can do a quick swap during long mountain bike races. It has enough storage space to carry a jacket, tubes, and my Crank Brothers multi-tool but doesn’t seem bulky. The 70 ounce bladder is big enough on most rides to get me to where I can refill. When I need to carry more gear and water, I use the Camelbak Blowfish.

Garmin Edge 305/705

The Garmin Edge 705 is the ultimate cycling computer. It is a newer version of the Garmin Edge 305. They both have GPS and heart rate monitor and can be bought with an optional cadence sensor. The 705 adds a color screen and maps. With the right maps you can get turn by turn directions.

YakTrax Pro

YakTrax ProYakTrax provide amazing traction for hiking or running on snow and ice. They are easy to slip on and off and small enough that you can carry them in your pocket until you need them. The Pro version has a strap that goes over the top of the shoe to help keep them from slipping off. An alternative is the Kahtoola MICROspikes. I have tried them but they’re all metal on the bottom so they are probably more durable than the rubber of the YakTrax. They also weigh 12.5 ounces versus 4.4 ounces for the YakTrax. The MICROspikes also look like they could stab your shins if you aren’t careful.

Olympus Stylus 1050SW

I’ve been using the Olympus Stylus cameras before they were even digital. They’re compact and are designed to be used in all weather. I ride and hike with one in my pocket. The 1050 SW is a hardened 10 mega
pixel model that is waterproof, shockproof and works in cold temperatures. It has a tap control feature to make it easier to use with gloves on. If you want an even more rugged camera, the Olympus 1030 SW is waterproof to 33 feet, can handle being dropped 6.6 feet and can withstand 220 pounds of pressure.

If none of the gear above is a good fit for your gift buying, check out another dozen cycling gift ideas and the Cycling and Outdoor Gift Card Guide. Also, below are links to some more gift guides for even more gift ideas.

Gift Guides

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 

Happy 2008

January 5th, 2008

Another year has come and gone. The change of years doesn’t really mean that much to me. For the most part, New Years Day is just another day except that I don’t have to work. We were going to go see the fireworks when we were at Grand Lake but being asleep in a warm bed ended up sounding better than standing on a frozen lake at midnight in subzero weather.

2007 sucked the life out of me. I did too little riding and was too stressed at work. I still feel like I’m recovering from it. Going to Alaska was the highlight of the year.

I don’t believe in doing New Years resolutions. It takes being ready mentally and emotionally to make changes. I find that other events or just being the right time is when I can make changes. When I started my new job, I decided to break my pop drinking addiction. I did well for the first couple weeks and then with the holidays I didn’t do quite so well. I’m still drinking much less than I was before but don’t want to drink much at all.

My plan is to get back to racing in 2008. I haven’t figured out which races yet but I’m thinking mostly long mountain bike races with most likely at least one 100 miler and a 24 hour race. Some of the mountain bike races I’m thinking about are the Leadville 100, Breckenridge 100 and Montezuma’s Revenge. The Hoodoo 500 on the road also interests me. Which races I do will somewhat depend on how my fitness comes around. I think I can get fit but my weight will hold me back. I need to lose 35 pounds to get to my competitive weight.


I also want to keep improving the cycling and outdoor gear search part of this website. It’s far from how I’d like it to be. I plan to do another giveaway in couple months similar to the giveaway I did before Christmas. The graph above shows the traffic to that part of the website for the last year. Although I feel it could be improved a lot, there’s been a good increase in traffic.

Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Hi Tec Penrith Mid Jr. WP Hiking Boots
Price: $38.73
 
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Adidas AX2 Mid GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $135.00
 
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Salomon X Alp Mid LTR GTX Hiking Boots
Price: $219.95
 


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