Author: Bill

Ever wonder why all my email addresses and account names are Boneshakerbike? So what was that team I use to be on … what was it? Team Boneshakerbike, and we rode boneshaker bikes made at the hand of Andrew Wellman. Well a close friend of mine finally had a revelation … it’s what I have been saying … the first bike ridden off road (well I assume they didn’t have lots of pavement in 1868).

“Dude, One of the original BoneShakers!  I did not think about why that term existed until I saw this today at the museum in Albany.  I figure you bike was that name because it was stiff but I did not know it was a term used from wooden bikes…cool.  Well, the best part was if felt like you showed up there to connect. Peace”

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY:

• 2007: Another Day, Another Turn of the Crank – A contemplative morning in Missoula, Montana, sparks thoughts on the joys of mountain biking and the beauty of Big Sky country.
• 2002: Great Day For a Mountain Bike Ride – Bill shares his enthusiasm for a day perfect for mountain biking, along with plans for a hike with his dog, highlighting the simple pleasures of outdoor activities.
• 2001: 2 Hour Ride – A light-hearted post-ride reflection, Bill compares his biking adventures to the comedic twists of the movie “Shanghai Noon,” finding joy in the unexpected.

Each post, a story; each story, a memory etched into the trails of time, inviting you to pedal along through the pages of my adventures.

Yo, picture this: Ross and I, armed with bikes and the unshakeable delusion that today would be EPIC (read: conquer-all-the-hills, wind-in-our-hair, picture-perfect kind of epic). Montana rolled out its golden carpet, sun beaming and wind doing its best Beyonce impression (fierce, unpredictable). Scenery? Forget about it, Mother Nature was flexing hard.

Now, every hero’s journey needs a plot twist, right? Ours arrived in the form of Ross’s tire performing a dramatic interpretive dance… with gravity. Yeah, a flat tire was about as welcome as a surprise tax audit. There we were, surrounded by majestic views, suddenly playing roadside pit crew.

But hey, these unplanned pit stops are the secret sauce of adventure, right? While Ross channeled his inner Formula 1 pit stop magician (seriously, dude was possessed by tire-changing skills), I took a moment to truly soak it all in. Funny how a flat tire forces you to hit the brakes and appreciate the beauty you might’ve whizzed past.

In the end, the flat was just a blip on what turned out to be an awesome day. It’s a reminder that adventure ain’t just about reaching the finish line or conquering hills like a boss. It’s about the journey, the laughs (even at your buddy’s tire woes), and yeah, even the unexpected detours. Cheers to more adventures, Ross, flat tires and all!

ON THIS DAY IN HISTORY, FEB 18:

• 2006: Trip Across Montana Picture Posted and New Photos In Photo Oasis
• 2002: Single Track is Calling

Dive into these snapshots of time for a mix of humor, adventure, and the beauty of the outdoors through the lens of my experiences.

I was not called a pedal punk; it’s a term I coined myself. It sounds right and captures what I felt I was being labeled as. This is my blog, after all, and it’s about my feelings. Plus, the phrase adds some flavor and helps me share a lesson learned… or another “Bill Quote.”

I had plans for an adventure with a friend, but things got tough, and now I might be going solo.

Imagine you suggest a 4-hour ski trip with me, and I respond that I need to be cautious with my training as the season approaches. I propose skiing for just 2 hours and waiting for you at the car. Would that annoy you? This guy starts calling me a “wuss.” Even though he’s joking, I remember he nearly collapsed last week on a long trip. Why would I risk the same fate this season?

His calling me a wuss got me angry. Then, driven by male pride, I challenged him to a race, leading to plans for a grueling 2-day trans-Bitterroot journey that could be too much for both of us. I felt like I was being labeled an asphalt junkie and a pedal punk.

It all boiled down to a wager, and then I remembered: my summer races are what truly matter. Now, I might owe him $100 and have to acknowledge his dominance. So, what do you think happened? Bipolar mood swings? Testosterone? Poor diet?

I have another friend who acts like he’s battling an illness, as if he has control over it. “Dude,” I tell him, “you can’t control it, and you’re exactly where you’re meant to be.” That’s a rant for another time, but I coined a saying to make my point. I dedicate this saying to him and to today’s situation: “Don’t fight it, ride it!”

That’s exactly what I’m going to do: ride it! This summer is going to be amazing, and I can’t wait. Anyone have $100 I can borrow?

On this day in history, a stroll down memory lane

• 2008: First epic stage race
• 2007: Exhausted But Riding Strong
• 2005: Can’t Sleep
• 2002: Paul and Lucy in Glen Falls
• 2001: Work Study Sucks
• 2001: Quiet Embrace of Sorrow

Hey team, guess what? I just stumbled upon this article on Velo News and, man, you’ve gotta hear this. So, there’s buzz about the first-ever epic mountain bike stage race hitting the U.S. this summer. We’re talking about the Brian Head Epic, set to unfold in the stunning backdrop of Brian Head, Utah, a spot well-known for its ski and bike trails.

This whole shindig is getting whipped up by some of the big names in mountain bike race organizing. They’re drawing inspo from mega events like South Africa’s Absa Cape Epic and Costa Rica’s La Ruta de los Conquistadores. Mark your calendars, folks—August 21-24 is when the magic happens.

You know I’ve already slapped this onto my calendar. Now, all I need is a stroke of luck with the lottery and maybe a little time off work. No joke, I’d dive into this adventure in a heartbeat if I could. Caught wind of this epic news over at FatCyclist.Com http://www.fatcyclist.com/2008/02/15/i-admit-i-am-giddy/.

So, to my racing fam (yeah, not every single one of ya, just the die-hards), what do you say? Are we game or what?

On this day in history, a stroll down memory lane

• 2007: Exhausted But Riding Strong
• 2005: Can’t Sleep
• 2002: Paul and Lucy in Glen Falls
• 2001: Work Study Sucks
• 2001: Quiet Embrace of Sorrow

My training plan tonight was for an endurance cross-training workout off the bike, but I couldn’t resist. Once home, I grabbed my bike and headed to Pattee Canyon, donning hiking boots and traps for a mix of cycling and hiking.

The ride turned snowy at the top of the climb, exactly what I aimed for, to tackle some snow terrain. Reaching the southmost turn towards East Missoula, I followed a well-used path past a gated road, not the snowmobile trail I expected but a logging route.

I reluctantly turned back at the Crazy Canyon Parking Area, then took the road to the Treasure Trail. This summer favorite led me back to town via the Fire Road.

I recommend the route past Deer Creek Road’s gate and Crazy Canyon Road. The Treasure Trail, icy and challenging, requires a “Fatty” or studded tires. It was an awesome ride, rejuvenating my training enthusiasm. For the route map, check here. It’s great to be back on the bike!

On this Valentines Day in history:

• 2008: Deer Creek Snow Sneak – Swapping traditional Valentine’s Day plans for a snowy bike ride up Deer Creek, seeking untouched trails and epic views.
• 2004: Mount Ellen Vermont – A solo venture into Mount Ellen’s wintry embrace, detailing a challenging hike amidst a Valentine’s Day whiteout.
• 2002: My Emotional Profile – A reflection on the quest for love and understanding, highlighting the importance of emotional connections and self-awareness.

Each post captures a moment in time, offering insights into my personal journeys, challenges, and the beauty of adventure. Enjoy delving into these snapshots of life’s rich tapestry.

Ditch the dress-up this year, lovebirds! Tonight, I’m trading chocolates for powder and heading up Deer Creek on my trusty snow bike.

Plan is to cruise up Pattee Canyon Road and carve around into the epic Deer Creek Drainage (think untouched snow and epic views!). Hoping some snowmobilers prepped the path towards Miller Peak, but hey, even if they didn’t, shredding down the Treasure Trail is always a win.

Feeling adventurous? Wanna ditch the sappy stuff and join me? Comment below or shoot me a message – I’m down for an epic Valentine’s Day adventure (minus the cheesy romance)!

https://www.google.com/maps/@46.821677,-113.90831,14z/data=!5m1!1e4?entry=ttu

On this Valentines Day in history:

• 2004: Mount Ellen Vermont – A solo venture into Mount Ellen’s wintry embrace, detailing a challenging hike amidst a Valentine’s Day whiteout.
• 2002: My Emotional Profile – A reflection on the quest for love and understanding, highlighting the importance of emotional connections and self-awareness.

Each post captures a moment in time, offering insights into my personal journeys, challenges, and the beauty of adventure. Enjoy delving into these snapshots of life’s rich tapestry.

Tonight’s agenda? A chill regeneration workout. It’s the perfect backdrop to finally dive into editing the video from this year’s spring break vacay. Gotta say, slipping back into a proper sleep and nutrition routine feels like coming up for air after a deep dive. Let’s face it, running on empty and junk food is a one-way ticket to feeling down in the dumps.

But hey, looking back, wouldn’t trade the good times for anything. And now? I’m buzzing with excitement to ramp up the training. Kicking things off tomorrow with a snowy adventure to Deer Creek on the hunt for some snowmobile trails. Fingers crossed it stays nippy out. If you’re feeling brave, snatch up your snow bike and let’s make tracks.

In other news, stumbled upon a swanky new spot in Flathead Valley – Great Northern Cycles. They’re assembling a team (check them out) and I’m seriously considering joining the ranks. They’ve got a vibe that’s hard to ignore.

Oh, and get this – got a buzz from Kelli Lusk over at USA Cycling. Turns out, I’ve snagged a spot for the US Nationals at Mount Snow Vermont without even hitting a race in 2008. How’s that for a plot twist? Yo Pabby, if I jet over to Burlington, can you play chauffeur to the championships?

ON THIS DAY FEBRUARY 13TH

• 2007: The Saga of the Never-Ending Day
• 2007: Do I Have Exercise Bulimia?
• 2005: Failed McLeod, Black Tail Peak
• 2002: Bedtime Thoughts & Unplanned Wins
• 2002: Best Trail Site
• 2002: Listening To My Inner Self
• 2001: Homework Hustle & Inner Voices

Nestled in the serene embrace of Little Saint Joe Mountain, the RM Cabin offers a respite from the world below—a place where the night whispers through the trees and the crackle of the fireplace dances with shadows. Here, in the stillness of the mountain night, I find myself wide awake, Paul’s gentle snoring and the comforting warmth of the fire my only companions. With candlelight flickering softly, my PDA becomes my conduit to the outside world, a bridge from this secluded haven to the vast expanse of the internet.

The day’s adventure looms large in my memory, a vivid tapestry of effort, exhilaration, and the raw beauty of nature untamed. The summit of Little Saint Joe claimed my footsteps, while Paul sought shelter among the trees some 500 feet below the peak. The wind, a fierce guardian of the mountain’s solitude, lashed out with icy fingers, leaving its mark on any skin daring to face its wrath. Amidst this wild orchestra, I captured moments of our conquest on video, a tangible reminder of nature’s unyielding power and majesty.

Our descent was a tale of challenge and resilience, my skis betraying me to the mountain’s icy clutches time and again. Each fall, a testament to the mountain’s rugged beauty and the relentless conditions we braved. Yet, in this dance with the elements, there was joy, a celebration of the raw, untamed spirit that drives us to explore these heights.

The journey back to the cabin was a blur of powdery trails and fleeting thoughts of ascent, the temptation to chase the thrill of another run a siren call against the growing weariness of the day’s efforts. The decision to seek the warmth of the cabin, to nourish the body with smoked oysters, pasta, and the simple pleasure of freshly roasted almonds, marked the end of our physical journey but the beginning of a reflective respite in front of the stove’s embracing warmth.

Now, as the night deepens, the effects of one too many cups of hot tea wrestle with my desire for sleep, leaving me in a state of restless contemplation. This cabin, perched upon Little Saint Joe Mountain, becomes more than just a shelter from the elements; it’s a sanctuary of memories, of moments shared and challenges met. From this vantage point, by candlelight and the glow of a PDA screen, I share this slice of our adventure, a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who seek to embrace the wilderness and all its untamed beauty.

I’ve realized something special about a ski spot I recently visited: it’s a secret shared only among friends. Unlike the crowded GSpot, bustling with tele skiers and snowboarders, the Nip offers solitude and unmatched skiing. Today, Paul and I experienced what could only be described as legendary skiing, bringing us closer to the spiritual side of the sport, despite my usual annoyance with the overuse of “nar.”

As I’m catching up on emails, I’m tipped off about a new secret spot. And as the snow falls outside, I can’t help but feel excited about what’s next. I wonder, what’s Ronnie up to now?

Remember that time Paul nudged me to write an apology for our disastrous GSpot ski trip? No way, Jose! Sure, it wasn’t exactly sunshine and rainbows, but hey, that’s part of the adventure, right? And speaking of adventures, let me tell you about this epic shred-fest we just had south of Victor, Montana.

This wasn’t your average ski trip. We ditched the well-trodden path and followed a skin trail that led us deeper into the snowy wonderland. It felt like we were explorers on a new frontier, and let me tell you, the payoff was epic! We were surrounded by untouched powder, begging to be carved up by our skis.

And carve we did! The descent was pure magic. Imagine this: fluffy snow spraying up with every turn, the wind whipping through your hair, and the feeling of pure freedom as you zoom down the mountain. It was like shredding on a cloud, dude! I’m telling you, this trip was off the charts, and I don’t just mean the gnarly terrain.

Now, as I sit here at the Brew, I can’t help but grin. Today’s another day, another adventure waiting to happen.

By the way, if you’re ever in the area and looking for a ski adventure, check out these resorts near Victor, Montana:

• Discovery Ski Area: Mountain sports area with ski slopes for varying skill levels in winter & bike trails in summer. It has a 4.7 star rating on Google Maps.
• Lost Trail Ski Area: Straddling the Montana-Idaho border, this area in Bitterroot Range is known for reliable snow & ski. It has a 4.6 star rating on Google Maps.
• MontanaSnowbowl Ski Area: It has a 5 star rating on Google Maps.
• Snowbowl: Low-key spot for skiing & snowboarding, plus a rental shop, summer hiking/biking & dining options. It has a 4.2 star rating on Google Maps.
• Great Divide Ski Area: Ski runs & terrain parks on 3 peaks known for winter sun, plus cross-country trails through valleys. It has a 4.6 star rating on Google Maps.