Bike Vigilantes

WE'VE MOVED

2010-02-01T09:55:00.000-08:00

Hey kids, we've moved our blog.

Check out the new and improved site at http://vigilantes.yakima.com

IF YOU COME TO THE YAKIMA OFFICE

2010-01-29T15:48:00.000-08:00

If you make your way into the Yakima office the first thing you'll see is our two story tall mural of an outdoor scene painted on the curvy walls of our lobby. Sitting next to that is our soap box derby car along with a couple Kona Africa bikes for cruising around the burbs on. But, if you are amply hydrated you may make your way into the men's urinal and see this lovely vigilante poster.

In case you need a close up version.

RITTE RACING PHOTO SHOOT

2010-01-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

Now, I read about this team on Embrocation's Embro Awards and was quite intrigued. Have a good sense of design and great thoughts. Makes me think of what we need more of in our snobby sport of road cycling. Came across this posting from JBucky on Ritte Racing. Classic stuff here kids, classic stuff.

Read the full story on their site.

Oregon Super D Series Announced

2010-01-21T11:24:00.000-08:00

This just in from the fine folks over at the Oregon Super D, our first Super D Series is on!

In two short years the Hood River Super D gained national attention as one of the top Super D/Enduro courses in the country, but we’re going bigger! This year we will introduce the first of it’s kind four race Super D series throughout the state of Oregon, holding an event every month during the mountain bike season. Each weekend event will have a point system format, awarding maximum points to each categorical winner. For multi-race weekends, times will be combined from both days/courses declaring each race series winner(s). All individual series races will have cash and merchandise prizing with the overall award ceremony following the last race/season finale. Expect world class courses, camaraderie, great prizes, festivals, music, local support and camping. The momentum of this cycling discipline is on the rise, with the mountain bike industry, athletes, fans and media in full support. With world-wide demand for Enduro events taking off, this signature series will bring in top riders from across North America and push the limits of Enduro racing.

>>> check out their website here <<<

DOGS, LIFE AND CYCLING

2010-01-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

This is a great video on the lessons of having a dog, riding a bike and what can be learned by all.

Yakima Go Cart Racing

2009-12-28T09:38:00.000-08:00

Here at Yakima we celebrate the holiday season in a very traditional fashion. This year we did the holiday food drive, we ate a honey baked ham and we went go cart racing. Here's a quick video of us eating the baked ham.

go cart racing from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Yakima Office Fugly Sweater Day

2009-12-22T13:22:00.000-08:00

Today at Yakima HQ we donned our very seasonal and hip fugly sweaters.

Close up shots of each sweater can be found HERE.

KEN BLOCK'S TRAX STI CAR

2009-12-22T09:42:00.000-08:00

Put the bikes in the basement and wax up your boards and skis. It's time my friends.

Vigilante Nationals Clip

2009-12-21T15:06:00.000-08:00

I posted a movie a few days ago with a ton of great shots from FARfromEARTH films. I did a quick sampling of the Vigilantes and added a different track. Take a look.

Vigilante HD Natz Video from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Thanks to FARfromEARTH films for allowing us to use your work.

The Vigilante Cross Natz Race Video

2009-12-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick video of race footage shot from the Yakima Bike Vigilantes during various races of the 2009 cyclo-cross national championships in Bend, OR. Racers Dylan VanWeelden and Chris Sautter mounted Go Pro Cameras to various places on their bikes to capture the footage.

Cyclo-Cross US National Championships from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Vigilante Results:
Chris Sautter - Master A's 40-45 - 66th
Jason Crago - Master A's - 54th
Darrin Seeds - Single Speed - 21st
Darrin Seeds - Master A's 30-34 - DNF
Dylan VanWeelden - Single Speed - 31st
Dylan VanWeelden - Master A's 30-34 - 40th
Dave Condon - Master A's 30-34 - 49th

Brian Vernor (director of Pure Sweet Hell) also premiered his new film about the cross culture in Japan. Talkdemonic played an amazing set over super 8 film cross footage then the movie took center stage. It's so great to see the combination of art and cycling come together. We tip out hats to Brian...

CX Natz Slomo Video

2009-12-17T11:35:00.001-08:00

Came acros this video from the master A 30-34 race in Bend. Dave Condon and Dylan VanWeelden are showing their sexy race faces at 2:25, 3:30, 4:30, 5:00.

CYCLE CROSS BEND OREGON 2009(sat. last race mens) from FARfromEARTH Films on Vimeo.

Cross Nationals

2009-12-16T11:49:00.000-08:00

The cycling posse headed out to Bend last weekend for cyclocross national championships. Great times, good friends, hot tub, cold mud, ice packed snow and lots of hoes. Here's some of my favorite images from Dylan and Robin.

Here's a classic video of Dylan VanWeelden crashing over the barriers on the last lap of the single speed race.

cross natz barrier crash from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Great Blog Posting on SSCXWC

2009-12-16T11:32:00.001-08:00

Just came across this guys blog. Great images and story of the SSCXWC weekend of mayhem.

http://wanderinglens.net/blog/?p=120

Look what those seattle kids are doing to our grail.

Single Speed Ice Rink

2009-12-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

Here's a good clip of what racing the single speed race was like at cx natz. Needed sidis with ice skates on them. Darrin Seeds and Dylan VanWeelden are about 20 deep into the mix.

Barrier Crash from Cross Nationals

2009-12-11T19:56:00.000-08:00

Here's a nice clip of Dylan VanWeelden crashing at cross nationals today in Bend, OR. It was the last lap going into the barriers at the end battling it out with some joe. Turns out Dylan took the barriers a bit to fast. He didn't actually clip his toe but rather his ankle. Looks like that one hurt.

Find more videos like this on Cyclocross Magazine

More USGP

2009-12-10T20:39:00.001-08:00

USGP was a surprisingly low key event after the frenzy of the Cross Crusade. Even through the event was mellow, the racing was good. Chris ran handlebar and fork cams in the Masters 35-44 race.

Yakima Bike Vigilantes USGP Stanley Cup Masters 35-44 Cyclocross Race, 12-5-09 from Chris Sautter on Vimeo.

USGP cross racing fun

2009-12-08T12:28:00.000-08:00

USGP came and it went. The cold weather flew in and bit us all. America's best came and showed us how it's done. But one thing was missing, the hoards and hoards of portland racers and fans alike. I guess $6 a pint doesn't attract quite the crowds. Cross Crusade, keep doing what you're doing. USGP to you I say fairwell.

Here's a video of the single speed race from Dylan VanWeelden's bike.

USGP Single Speed Race from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Jason Crago warming up getting ready to kill some folks.

We brought the team set up with bitchin' overhead signage.

Crago doing the killing.

The dreamy course.

Chris Sautter on the run up.

Boy can run.

Sautter taking his stab a killing it just the same.

The bloods coming back to the brain.

And you have to love the post race stories.

Bay Area Road Ride Video

2009-12-04T10:24:00.000-08:00

For the last few months local Bike Vigilante Erin Barnes has been traveling with the Subaru Go Love Adventure Tour. Erin mounted up a Go Pro Cam for her morning ride while the guys from the tour hit the water.

bay area road ride from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Vigilante Syncline MTB Ride

2009-12-03T10:43:00.001-08:00

Yakima Bike Vigilantes Syncline MTB November 09 from Chris Sautter on Vimeo.

PDX Chat Before CX Natz

2009-12-02T16:52:00.001-08:00

Red Bull Exodus

2009-11-30T09:24:00.000-08:00

Nick Gibson of the Bike Vigilantes raced in this years Red Bull Exodus at Whistler. This video just came out of the mass start downhill foggy ass race.

Red Bull Exodus 2009

Kruger's Crossing CX

2009-11-24T21:31:00.000-08:00

The Kruger's Crossing race put on by Portland Racing was a mudfest. Check out this helmet cam video of Chris in the singlespeed race.

2009 Krugers Crossing SS Cyclocross Race - Yakima Bike Vigilantes from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Double Mountain Brewery Sponsors the Bike Vigilantes

2009-11-24T14:24:00.000-08:00

Double Mountain Brewery out of Hood River just got on board along with the Yakima Bike Vigilantes to spread the gospel of good people, bike riding and now beer. We'll be doing a host of events together around the Northwest. I stopped by last night for a full tour of the brewery along with some tasty beer and food. The next time you're passing through Hood River this place is a must stop.

Yakima Has a "Mustache Thing"

2009-11-23T09:57:00.000-08:00

Here at Yakima HQ our company parties are a little different than most. For the last 4 years we've had an official Yakima Mustache Party. The rules are simple, you must grow a real mustache and we give all sorts of wonderful awards from Most Creative Mustache Shape to Most Pathetic Stache. Here's a video we made to show just how passionate we are...

Barton A Race Video

2009-11-17T17:08:00.000-08:00

Good video by cx mag on the series battle between molly and babcock.

Barton Park CX Race

2009-11-17T09:45:00.000-08:00

The vigilantes came out in prime form at the last cross crusade race of the year. Nick and Dave got hole shots in their respective categories and finished strong.

Dave cried all through the race. Don't ask me why but the proof is in the pudding.

In the end everyone had smiles, even Tony wearing a mask to apparently rob the convenience store after the race.

Chris ran a GoPro helmet cam in the SS race. Check out the video:

2009 Cross Crusade Barton SS Race - Yakima Bike Vigilantes from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

::: Results :::
Chris Sautter - 24th - Single
Tony Ohotto - 28th - Single
Dave Condon - 12th - B's
Jimmy Candelaria - 29th - Beginner
Nick Gibson - Flatted

::: Robin's Photos Here :::

Yakima Lunchtime Bowling Fun

2009-11-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

Today the CEO called us to an all hands surprise lunch meeting. All of the Yakimites were wondering what was going on. Come to find out we were having a mandatory bowling lunch session. Chris Sautter and I grabbed the go pro cameras and captured some footage. It's good to see so many smiling faces of your co-workers.

Yakima Lunchtime Bowling from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Subaru Cat Car with Yakima Ski Rack

2009-11-12T13:43:00.000-08:00

Check out this dandy little subaru with some Yakima FatCat ski racks.

Yakima SkyBox in new Lady Gaga Video

2009-11-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Check out the Yakima SkyBox's in the new Lady Gaga video. When we designed these this wasn't on the list of inspirations, but whatever.

SSCXWC09, Beyond Thunderdome

2009-11-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

SSCXWC09 from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

We just got the Thunderdome taken apart after a long weekend at the SSCXWC . It was huge with the race course snaking its way through the dome and racers dodging people swinging from ropes. The intensity of the crowd was over the top as they climbed all over the dome yelling at the riders.

Thanks to Pacific Domes for coming up and helping us build the structure during Saturday's storm. The dome was perfect. And thanks to all the Yakima Bike Vigilantes who helped put this mayhem together.

Yakima Bike Vigilante "WORLD RANKINGS"
Nick Gibson 28th
Dylan VanWeelden 49th
Darrin Seeds 75th
David Fee 125th

More race info to follow.

Here are links to several articles and photosets from the day's events.

Articles

CX Magazine ::: Bike Portland ::: Embrocation Cycling Journal ::: Velo News Article ::: All Hail the Black Market ::: Oregon Cycling Action ::: Bike Magazine

Photography/Videography

PDX Cross (SSCXWC Set) ::: PDX Cross (Crusade Set) ::: Robin Straughan ::: Everyday Athlete ::: Brian Ellin ::: Monovic::: Oregon Velo::: You Tube Dude #1::: You Tube Dude #2 ::: Vimeo Dude ::: Wend Magazines Cyclocross Diarys ::: arobinslife

SSCXWC on VeloSnooze

2009-11-06T16:13:00.000-08:00

Check out the SSCXWC story on VeloNews, read the story here. Don't miss this event. Sunday 4pm, at PIR in Portland. Be there or be square.

Flat Bars for CX

2009-11-06T09:22:00.000-08:00

Our friends at Embrocation posted a commentary on flat bars for cyclocross that is dead on. A few of us Vigilantes have been tearing up the SS category at Cross Crusade with flat bars and the rest of us SS guys have been talking about switching over. With flat bars, the bike is one step closer to a 29r rigid MTB when things get technical or you want to fly over barriers. But it's still a 17lb cross bike that feels faster than any MTB should. They're not the best for all cross races, but damn they're fun.

Astoria Single Speed CX Race Video

2009-11-02T16:18:00.000-08:00

astoria cx race from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Check out Embrocation Journals write up on the video, day and everything in between.

Robin's Team Photos Here

Mountain Biking around Portland

2009-10-23T13:47:00.001-07:00

More GoPro camera action. This time none of the footage was from a helmet. For the record, there was no poaching involved and no trails were harmed in making this video of riding around SW Portland.

SW PDX trail ride from Chris Sautter on Vimeo.

Cross Crusade - Sherwood

2009-10-21T15:51:00.000-07:00

This week Chris ran a helmet cam in the Masters A race at Sherwood.

2009 Cross Crusade Sherwood Masters A Race - Yakima Bike Vigilantes from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

We had over a dozen Vigilantes representing in the bumpy hills outside Sherwood.

Darrin won the B race with Dave close behind in 7th.

Nick took 7th in the SS field with special horseproof eyewear.
Dylan had his first DNF of the season due to a mechanical.

Tony raced back to back in the Masters B then the singlespeed races.

Vigilante Team results:
Jason Crago - 16th , Masters A

Chris Sautter - 31st, Masters A

Darrin Seeds - 1st, B

Dave Condon - 7th, B

Nick Gibson - 6th, SS

Dylan VanWeelden - DNF, SS

Tony Ohotto - 64th, SS
Tony Ohotto - 26th, Masters B

David Fee - 19th, Masters C

Brent Sherry - 66th, C

Robin Cornuelle - 37th, Beginner Women

Mark Ries - 17th, Beginner

Jeremy Cover - 69th, Beginner

Jimmy Candeleria - 90th, Beginner

For more pictures from Robin S, go here

Vigilante Interviews from Interbike

2009-10-21T11:52:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Dunn of Embrocation Magazine and Yakima Bike Vigilante Dylan VanWeelden ran around and did a some stellar interviews at Interbike. Check this on out from the cross vegas event. Full story with video of Bob Roll doing jail time here.

Dylan interviews. from j. dunn on Vimeo.

Good Recap of Cross Clash Weekend

2009-10-21T11:28:00.000-07:00

Check out a good recap by Embrocation Magazine on last weekends racing along with the story of "The Grail."

Rainier SS Video

2009-10-15T10:41:00.000-07:00

Chris ran a GoPro helmet cam at the Rainier SS race. Check it out:

2009 Cross Crusade Rainier SS Cyclocross - Yakima Bike Vigilantes from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Rainier Cross Race Recap

2009-10-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

Jason Crago 16th in Master A's

Nick Gibson 7th Single Speed

Dylan VanWeelden 29th Single Speed

Chris Sautter 39th Single Speed

Darrin Seeds 3rd Cat B

Dave Condon 37th Cat B (flatted)

Mark Reis 40th Beg Men

Puppy Kickers Story of the Cross Clash by Sally from Raleigh

Check out photos by Robin S, Robin C, Dave Roth and PDX Cross.

Heidi Swift's Cross Diaries Film

Get a Raleigh SSCXSWC frame!

2009-10-08T14:36:00.000-07:00

Goes on sale Oct 19th, more info here.

Cross Crusade at Alpenrose 2009

2009-10-07T14:38:00.000-07:00

A posse of Vigilantes raced last Sunday at the Cross Crusade at Alpenrose Dairy.

Jeremy - Beginner
Jimmy – Beginner
Robin – Beginner women
Chuck – Master C
David – C
Dave - B
Darrin – B
Dylan - SS
Tony - SS
Chris – SS, Master A

Jason - Master A
Nick – SS, A

Darrin got 3rd and Dave got 7th in the B's. Nick got 7th and Dylan got 10th in the Singlespeeds.
Chris rode the SS race with a helmet cam. We put the footage together into a couple of videos.

alpenrose 09 chris mix from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

alpenrose 09 dylan mix from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Robin S. took a bunch of photos from several of the races. Robin C. did her first cross race.

Results for PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS week 3

2009-10-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone that came out and practiced their cross skills and special thanks to all of the volunteer coaches. The last week of class was made entertaining by John Howe's display of how to give and receive a proper beer hand up, along with Nick Gibson's class on how to bunny hop a barrier. See you all at the Cross Crusade!

Womens
Sage Fuller
Kate Shaw
Mielle Bloomberg
Tonya Roe
Kendra Duong
Inga Johnson
Enily Longfield
Julie Kramer
Kimberly Popp
Jen Pasquarella
Marylynn King
Robin Cornuelle
Olivia Halfen
Rachel Pasternak
Laurie Daley
Emilia Sibley
Amanda Durkee
Isabel Scholz
Althea Rodgers
Devora Rubin

Mens
Rob
Michael Palmer
Adam Luneke
Andrew Sullivan
Rudolf Jung
Keith Levesque
Matt Moore
Jamaal Folsom
Victor Duong
Michael Fisher
Christopher Francoeur
Mark Reis
David Lowe-Rostad
Andrew Morphis
Thomas Smith
Nathan Rubin
Juergen Panoscha
Rutherford Brakke-Pound
Todd Mobley
Tim Bellis
Gabe Kutcher
Lars Christenson
Terry Campbell
Mark Chasse
Rich Rintoul
Emerson Webb
James Webb
Edward Rubin

Check out Photos from Dave Roth.

Then check out Photos from Erin Barnes.

Cross Vegas Video

2009-10-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

Dylan ran a GoPro helmet cam at Cross Vegas and made this video. Racing under the lights at sunset was cool. The big field in the Wheelers and Dealers race made for a lot of traffic throughout the race.

cross vegas from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

Rapha Gentlemen's Race

2009-10-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

The guys at Rapha posted on the Gentlemen’s Race. The video really captures the event, and the pictures aren’t bad either. Our RaphaCam pics are here. OK, not all of them, but some weren't "printable" when developed.

Write Up on Hang Gliding from Yakima Flugtag

2009-10-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

Here's pretty rad write up in a hang gliding magazing from our Big Big Wheel from Flugtag.

Embrocation Write Up

2009-10-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Coaches Jeremy Dunn and Joe Staples came out and did a fabulous job at coaching last weeks PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS. Not only did they share their cross skills but also did a pretty funny skit on how to apply embrocation. Read about it on the Embrocation blog.

He also brings up some good juice from Interbike '09.

Results for PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS

2009-09-29T16:52:00.000-07:00

These are the results for the 9.28 monday night race. Note this is a training race and placing is not of much importance. Their are no category or age split ups yet, save that for Sunday's race at AlpenRose. If you are not listed on here you didn't yell your name quite loud enough, all apologies.

Womens Race
Danielle Booth
Sara Fletcher
Tonya Roe
Taylor Skekell
Emilia Sibley
Leah deForest
Carol Pelmas
Lauren Adrian
Julie Pendelton
Mielle Bloomberg

Mens Race
John Gorman
Dan Sharp
Brian Larson
Sal Bondi
Zac Strode
Steven Case
Graham Wagner
Eric Evans
Rick Jones
Andrew Sullivan
David Smith
Shawn Cecotti
Michael Fletcher
Robert Christensen
Marc Romano
Jeff McCormick
Darren Kling
Jamie Whalen
Daniel Spear
Christopher Francoeur
Michael Tarro
Jamaal Folsom
David Lowe-Rostad
Tom Achor
Rick Boston
Aaron Adams
Mike Davis
Timothy Breaut
Michael Fisher
Andrew Morphis
Dan Richardson
Clayton Allen
Juergen Panascha
Rutherford Brakke -Pound
Justin Garder
Shawn McBride
Eric Volkman
Richard Rintoul
Jim Webb
Terry Lee

PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS WEEK TWO IMAGES

2009-09-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

Here's some images from week 2 of the PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS. Mike Davis from pdxcross.com came out and shot some amazing stuff. These guys truly create the most amazing cross photography out there. Check them out at http://www.pdxcross.com/.

Local legend on a small bike Dave Roth also came out and shot some great images. See his shots here.

Check out Wend Magazine's write up on Heidi Swift's voodoo magic trick from this weeks class. Read about it here.

Vinny's Climb of Temple Crag

2009-09-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

Yakima's east coast road warrior Vinny Mazzuca just climbed Temple Crag. Check out the video below.

The Power of Yakima Racks

2009-09-29T09:53:00.001-07:00

Looks like the Yakima round bars and LowRiders can withstand the power of a car bomb. Not bad.

PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS WEEK ONE RECAP

2009-09-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the huge number of people that came out for the first PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS. This Monday's class is primed and ready for everyone to learn much more. Weather you're a seasoned veteran or it's your first time trying cross we'll have a spot for you. Sign up for this monday's class at http://www.yakima.com/cross.

Photos by Dave Roth and Karen Pride, check out more here and here.

StarCrossed SS Helmet Cam Footage

2009-09-22T07:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a look from the drivers seat of the single speed race at StarCrossed this weekend. Dylan VanWeelden got lucky with a front row line up and ended up fading to 8th place.

starcross from Dylan VanWeelden on Vimeo.

PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS promo video

2009-09-18T23:38:00.001-07:00

SCHOOL OF CROSS from Dave Christenson on Vimeo.

Get the scoop from Embrocation Cycling Journal.

SSCXWC is ON!!!

2009-09-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

Check out the official "Beyond Thunderdome" poster. The race of a lifetime you won't want to miss. Sign up here.

Here's the original poster, matt slaven makes a nice tina turner.

One Week until the PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS.

2009-09-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

The PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS starts in one week! Sign up now HERE.

Red Bull Exodus

2009-09-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

On September 4th and 5th, 2009 mountain bikers gathered at the peak at Whistler Mountain, in Whistler Blackcomb resort in British Columbia and descended more than 2,182m and a vertical of 1,530m and crossed the finish line in the Whistler Village at speeds reaching up to 80 km per hour. National and international riders endured nature’s elements of low visibility, rain, mud as well as sustaining constant physical and mental effort in order to maintain control during the entire decent.

Red Bull Exodus is a mass start downhill race which saw over 125 men and women in a simultaneous start from the snow-capped peak with a final destination in Whistler Village. Over the course of two days, participants were challenged by bar-to-bar racing as they battled side-by-side, dealing with fatigues and navigated through muddy and wet dirt trails riddled with jumps, stunts, drops and root-strewn terrain.

Nick Gibson, local vigilante placed 42nd overall.

Rapha Gentlemen's Race Rips Our Legs Off

2009-09-13T12:24:00.000-07:00

Six Vigilantes and Robin headed out yesterday for a little friendly rivalry with 23 other teams on a take-no-prisoners, 136-mile course. We wound our way from Otis through the Coast range, all the way to Ron Tom's in Portland, with several miles of gravel and a couple ripping descents.

Check out Robin's photos then check out Dylan's photos

Oregon Manifest Bike Festival Shifts to a Higher Gear for 2009

2009-09-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

Constructors Design Challenge, Dreams on Wheels Danish cycling exhibit, a cycling fashion show, and bike racing highlight the Manifest's expanded, six-weekend schedule.

PORTLAND, Ore. Oregon Manifest is back, with new paint, fresh tires and extra gears!

Oregon Manifest Portland's unique, multi-faceted celebration of cycling culture, craftsmanship and competition returns, larger and fresher, for 2009. Expanded to six weekends (up from three days) Oregon Manifest 09 will feature a national bike design challenge, an acclaimed Danish cycling culture exhibit, bike racing, guest speakers and a pop-up storefront Bike Union all highlighting the bike's influence on culture, sustainability, and urban design.

Set to run from October 2 to November 8 in Portland, Oregon Manifest 09 presented by Chris King Precision Components will showcase nearly every facet of the cycling experience, from the craft of bike design to the athletic power of single speed cyclocross, from examining cycling's impact on sustainability to its influence on fashion.

As one of two Platinum-rated cycling cities in the U.S., it's natural that Portland would host a cycling festival with the broad sweep of Oregon Manifest, explained event director Jocelyn SyCip. Oregon Manifest was created to celebrate the art, craft and community of bicycling, in turn engaging a wider audience with the cycling lifestyle. This series of events does not exist elsewhere and is the result of the cycling and creative communities coming together to develop something extraordinary and different.
Three events headline the festivities:

DREAMS ON WHEELS DANISH CYCLING CULTURE EXHIBIT
Working with the Embassy of Denmark and the City of Portland, Oregon, Oregon Manifest is hosting the U.S. debut of the Danish interpretive exhibit, Dreams on Wheels. Developed by curator Thomas Ermacora and in collaboration with Danish designer and architect Jan Gehl, Dreams On Wheels showcases Danish cycling culture and Denmark's commitment to sustainability via urban design that promotes active transportation. The exhibit illustrates how cycling has affected Danish culture, analyzing the history and social development of biking as a viable transportation alternative.

CONSTRUCTORS DESIGN CHALLENGE
Oregon Manifest is seeking the next-wave transportation bike. Bicycle frame builders from around the country are challenged to design and build an innovative, modern transportation bike a technical trial of engineering dexterity and fabrication mettle. Creative solutions for the everyday rider will be explored and exhibited before the public at the Oregon Bike Union. Some of the country's most accomplished makers of hand-built, custom bikes have taken up the challenge, including Igleheart from Wenham, Mass., Ahearne Cycles from Portland, and Curt Goodrich Bicycles from Minneapolis, Minn. Thirty-three builders will enter their purpose-built designs.

A prestigious panel of experts, including Rob Forbes, founder of Design Within Reach, and Sky Yaeger, of Swobo Bikes, will judge the bikes on Friday, October 2nd, followed by an evening gala at the Oregon Manifest Bike Union. The entered bikes will be displayed and the builders introduced to the public.

"The transportation bike is a long-neglected segment of cycling, but one that's making a comeback, SyCip said, The Constructor's Design Challenge is a unique way to jump start the conversation about what constitutes a great, modern, all-around transportation bike."

CONSTRUCTORS RACE
To prove that the bikes entered in the Constructors Design Challenge deliver function as well as form, the bikes will compete in a unique real-world transportation test. Presented by Rapha, the UK-based cycling apparel maker with offices in Portland, the Oregon Manifest Constructor's Race serves up 77 miles of epic on-and-off road challenges inspired by the European one-day classics, such as ParisRoubaix. Design Challenge builders (or their designated riders) will brave dirt, gravel, elevation climbs, and urban technical trials on the secret route to bike victory.

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE...
While Dreams on Wheels, the Constructor's Design Challenge, and the Constructors Race, top the Oregon Manifest line-up, other Manifest events will also pique the interest of cycling enthusiasts.

Guest Speakers In addition to a presentation by the Danish Ambassador, the rough and tumble world of Euro bike racing will be discussed by author Joe Parkin, who spent nearly a decade living in Belgium, learning Flemish and racing his bike professionally. Parkin chronicled his exploits in his memoir, A Dog in a Hat: An American Bike Racer's Story of Mud, Drugs, Blood, Betrayal, and Beauty in Belgium. He will speak at the Oregon Manifest Bike Union (NW 10th and Hoyt in The Pearl) on October 16th at 7 p.m.

Single Speed Cyclocross World Championships As if the mud, the barriers , and the run-ups of cyclocross weren't challenging enough, single speed 'cross limits the riders to one gear, putting a premium on strength, suffering,and in the case of this particular event, spectacle. On November 8th, the Single Speed Cyclocross World Championship closes out the Oregon Manifest's six-week run, taking place at Portland International Raceway

Ready to Roll Cycling Lifestyle Fashion Show and Concours DElegance
Cycle chic is two-wheeling it to Portland Fashion Week! Fabulous meets functional on the runway of Ready to Roll, a cycling lifestyle fashion show. October 10th, Momentum magazine in conjunction with Portland Fashion Week, will showcase bike style that performs on both the morning commute and at the evenings big event. After the show, fashionistas can participate in a rolling Concours delegance presented by River City Bicycles that will wind its way through the city toward a dapper celebration at the OM Bike Union.

Family Bicycle Transportation Day
Want to learn more about riding with kids? This is the event for you! Come demo a huge selection of family biking products in a fun atmosphere at a single convenient location. Many easy and flexible twowheeled options will be on hand, including bakfiet and other cargo bikes, trail-a-bikes, front-loading child seats, child seats options, bike trailers, tandems, electric-pedal assist electric-assisted bikes, accessories and more. In addition, more information and resources will be available on safe routes to school and work, tips on riding with children, and bicycle maintenance.

SUPPORTERS OF OREGON MANIFEST
Oregon Manifest, a non-profit organization, wouldn't be possible without the generous support of its partners. Presenting sponsor Chris King Precision Components and the City of Portland have been instrumental in seeding the event. Other Champion supporters include Cycle Oregon, Hopworks Urban Brewery, Drive less. Save More., Portland Development Commission, the Pearl District Business Association, and Rapha. Additional support comes from the Ace Hotel, Alta Planning + Design, Castelli US, Clever Cycles, Grey Matter Design, Momentum Magazine, Nau, pdxcross.com, River City Bicycles, United Bicycle Institute, and Wells Fargo.
For more information on Oregon Manifest visit www.oregonmanifest.com. To learn more about Dreams on Wheels, visit www.dreamsonwheels.dk,

Registration is open for SSCXWC!

2009-09-10T08:35:00.000-07:00

Click here to register!

It's All About Performance MP3

2009-09-09T13:49:00.001-07:00

Download the "It's All About Performance" MP3 here.

Preparing for the Rapha Gentleman's Race

2009-09-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

The team is gathering all needed materials for the gentleman's race coming up this weekend. Not easy to do with a 140 mile race with no support. Here's the recommended start up kit, seems easy enough...

• A Gentleman Cyclist would know and understand the L.U.B.
• A Gentleman Cyclist welcomes cycling as a lifetime friend.
• A Gentleman Cyclist knows the important role cycling has played throughout history and into the future.
• A Gentleman Cyclist gives something back to cycling. Either through training the next generation of cyclists, sharing the sport in new ways with others or contributing to the general welfare of cycling through activism, art, public examples of good manners, or whatever other talents he/she may have. Give in the measure to which he/she has received.
• A Gentleman Cyclist is well reasoned, well read and well intentioned.
• A Gentleman Cyclist knows the Rules of the Road and practices Civilized Cycling
• A Gentleman Cyclist has duty to the sport – respect the past and invest yourself in its future
• A Gentleman Cyclist has good manners – on and off the wheel.
• A Gentlemen Cyclist serves his/her family, community and country, aids the less fortunate cyclist (regardless of gender), leaves the sport better than he/she found it, passes no judgments and NEVER complains.
• A Gentleman Cyclist does not judge others by their equipment or manner of dress so it is sometimes difficult to spot a Gentleman Cyclist in a crowd. In fact, the outward appearance can be deceiving; he/she can look like anyone, dress in any manner, and ride any bike in the world but the attitude and actions will always mark him/her as a Gentleman or Gentlewoman.
• A Gentleman Cyclist knows his impact upon the world and guides him/herself accordingly.
• A Gentleman Cyclist never tires of the special gift of cycling.
• As defined in the dictionary, a Gentleman is a man/woman of refinement.

Here's a video of last years event.

Rapha Gentlemen's Race - Sept. 6th, 2008 from RAPHA on Vimeo.

The Washing Machine Post Story

2009-09-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

The Washing Machine post just did a nice write up on the PDX School of Cross. Check it out here.

New Embrocation is out.

2009-08-28T10:49:00.000-07:00

The new Embrocation issue, Volume 4 features an in-depth look at the Tour of California from 3 unique perspectives, profiles of some of our favorite products and goodies and unique profiles of some of the cycling industry’s most iconic characters. Pick one up HERE.

PDX SCHOOL OF CROSS

2009-08-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Want to learn more about cyclo-cross? Already an expert? We have room for everyone to practice their cross skills at the PDX School of Cross. Click Here to learn more.

Yakima takes 2nd at the Tabor Soap Box Derby

2009-08-23T11:51:00.000-07:00

Check Out Dylan's Pictures Here and Robin's Pictures Here.

Props from Embrocation Magazine

Soap box time

2009-08-21T15:46:00.000-07:00

We're almost ready for the PDX Adult Soap Box Derby tomorrow. Check out that low profile Skbox LoPro. It's sleek and fast. We're off to test and tweak so we're set up to win tomorrow.

Test Rider Yakima HoldUp Review

2009-08-19T09:28:00.000-07:00

Click here to check out the video.

Something Bitchin' This Way Coasts

2009-08-16T09:21:00.000-07:00

A teeny tiny sneak peak of the Yakima Soapbox Racer, 2009 Edition. Check it out in full technicolor glory next Saturday, 8/22 at Mt. Tabor Park in Portland from 10am to 4pm. Special thanks to collabo specialists Chris King, Velocity, Bike Tires Direct, and Formula USA.

Performance Cycling Video

2009-08-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

Check out this hot new performance music video from Portland rapper, MC Spandex.

Portland Twilight Crit Crash

2009-08-10T14:28:00.000-07:00

Check out the tennis ball fly into the course!

So long, Short Track

2009-08-05T09:53:00.001-07:00

Short Track 2009 ended on a high note with lovely weather. Dave took home the Cat 2 series win. Now it's time to chill out for a minute, then get ready for cross!

Vigilante Down

2009-08-04T23:04:00.000-07:00

James went arse over teakettle during warmups for yesterday's Short Track Finale. He got himself a torn rotator cuff, a super-bent wheelset, and Tuesday off work.

We've (almost) all been there, James. Take your Vicodin, drink your Smooth Move, and try to relax. You'll be back on the bike soon, and stronger than ever. Your wheels, however, may be ready for the scrap bin.

P.S. Dave won the season for Cat 2. Darrin narrowly missed a season podium spot in Cat 1. Chris did 3 races last night! Dylan cooked wieners for everyone. Chuck rocked his awesome "vintage" MTB. Joe didn't flat. Pictures here.

Pimped Out Limo with Yakima HighRollers

2009-08-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

Vigilante Lunch Ride

2009-07-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

Yakima Racks "Bike Vigilante Road Team" from Kris (Jaymo) Jamieson on Vimeo.

One more week, and that's all, folks.

2009-07-28T20:13:00.000-07:00

Last night was the penultimate short track race for 2009, unless you count the Salem Series, which we're mulling over.

This series of pictures sums it up nicely, it was really hot, and the sprinklers were on.

Nice work to Darrin, who finally cracked the podium in Cat 1, and I'm pretty sure I (Dave) locked up a series win in Cat 2.

More pictures here.

Short Track Short Shorts

2009-07-21T21:35:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday Kris Schamp decided to add a Casual Monday costume competition to the mix. Chris leapt at the chance to subject us all to short shorts once again. We had a smaller crew this time, but it was fun racing in the searing heat to good results all around.

Check out tons more pictures from Robin.

PDX Soapbox

2009-07-21T16:19:00.000-07:00

Those who were at the PDX adult soap box derby the last few years will surely remember the Big Big Wheel.

This year we're giving the Big Big Wheel a break and moving in a new direction. It's too early to show the new rig but as of today it rolls with some help from friends around town.

Crook County Crush XC

2009-07-20T16:05:00.000-07:00

The first Crook County Crush took place this past weekend in the Ochoco Forest outside of Prineville OR. Round and Lookout Mountain hold some epic trails and not too far from Bend. There are signs everywhere warning to look out for Wild Horses although I didn't see any, it should warn about the Wild horse flies though....they're mean!

Super challenging course with almost 6K of climbing with over 20 miles of sweet singletrack that included some very technical off camber rocky sections.
We climbed, climbed, climbed up the Lookout Mountain Trail (#804) gaining spectacular views, in fact you could even catch glimpses of The Three Sisters, Mt Hood, Mt Jefferson and Mt Washington as we topped out at 7100ft elevation. The combination of racing at elevation in 100 degree weather and my rear hub nearly locking up somewhere in the race made this a tough one, but I finished Cat 1 in 2nd place at 3:07 missing 1st by under a minute!

Me and my shiny 2nd place ribbon- Cat 1 Men

Yak rack makes a great tree to hang my hammock for the night.

-Darrin

Cascade Creampuff

2009-07-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

A couple of us rode the Cascade Creampuff last weekend. It's a MTB race near Oakridge that's over 100 miles with 17,000 feet of climbing and riding through some of the worlds finest singletrack. Joe and Chris started at 5:10am and rolled out before dawn with 212 other racers. The weather came in right after dawn and never really went away. In mid July, the culprit us usually heat, but this year we were treated to 50degree temperatures and lots of precipitation. I'll take the mild temperatures over the heat for a race like this. Joe rolled into the finish in 12 hours and change just before Chris was headed out for his final loop up Alpine. Chris finished in a little over 14 hours.

The trails were epic, the weather powerful, and the organizers put on a stellar event. No wonder it sells out right away every year.

Oregon Velo was on site taking incredible shots that hilight the feel of the trails.

Here's a shot of Joe railing through the Jedi section of Alpine trail.

Chris is glad to be done and thinking about beer.

Behind the Scenes of a Yakima Photoshoot

2009-07-15T15:53:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Dunn blogs on being talent in the last Yakima photoshoot.

http://embrocation.blogspot.com/2009/06/092-yakima.html

Yakima Car Vigilantes

2009-07-11T06:55:00.001-07:00

Stephan, our intrepid man on the east coast, filed this report after his latest Alpha exploits.

Greetings:

Please to contribute/share my racing experience for those who like to “keep the rubber side down” (Dylan’s quote) I am a racing enthusiast but the kind using four wheels … and an engine.

I am a racing instructor for COMSCC here in New England. This club is the oldest racing club in the east coast.

Here’s my curriculum with them:

Driver: Stephan de Pénasse

Club Racing Instructor: since 2004 (Classroom Instructor since 2008)

Car: 1973 Red Alfa Romeo GTV-2000

Class: SSB (Showroom Stock B until 2006), SSC (from 2007 on)

Records with COMSCC since 2000:

2007 = Instructor of the Year Award

2004, 2007, 2008 = Class Champion

2000, 2003, 2006 = Vice Champion

2002, 2005 = 4^th place

2001 = forgetaboutit J

My racing pedigree is somewhat broken down into three major portions:

VW Beetle Division 1 in Brazil

WKA - World Karting Association New England

What is COMSCC?

What is a Time Trial event: unlike HPDE (High Performance Driving Experience) COMSCC runs track sessions grouped by cars in the same class. The classes are determined by displacement, a formula that combines weight is the car, Horsepower, etc to determine the appropriate class. The one I am in now with my 1973 Alfa Romeo GTV-2000 is SSC: Showroom Stock Class C . It mean my car needs to be in “showroom” condition with original bumpers, etc. as be street worthy. I am allowed changing a few things such as shock absorbers (as long as it fits the original strut) and I can change seats and a roll cage is encouraged.

During practice sessions, the club uses “point-by” passing rules. This means there are designated areas in a race track where you can pass another car provided you were given a point-by to pass.

The time trail event itself consists of running 3 fast laps on the track (other cars are spaced in timed intervals so that you will not approach them) and they will record your fastest lap against the rest of others in the same class to determine the winner. Trophies are presented at the end of the 2-day event.

The club goes to some very legendary tracks like Watkins Glen (New York), Mont Tremblant (Quebec, Canada). Mosport (Ontario, Canada), Lime Rock (CT) and the “home” track is the New Hampshire Motor Speedway were we use the full road course (not oval).

Links to some pictures:

Stephan VW Beetle racing days: http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee51/StephanAlfa/CAM_2926.jpg

Stephan Karting Days: http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee51/StephanAlfa/kart93ME.jpg

Stephan’s Alfa Romeo GTV-2000: http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee51/StephanAlfa/Alfa_Stephan_Calabogie_2007.jpg

The Time Trial Event this past July 8 at NHMS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5JSDAGNLto

TIME TRIAL EVENT JULY 8^th: The weather was constantly changing: sun, heavy rain, dry again and more rain. It’s been going on like this all thru day 1 and word was “much of the same on day 2. I made a definite decision (rather than spending time holding a jack and a lug wrench all day) to put a set of rain tires and stay that way regardless. When it was time for me to stage the weather was dry. There were 4 cars in my class, 3 of them Mazda Miata. One of them edged me by less than .3 seconds, the rest where about 4-5 seconds behind me. The difference was simply in the tire selection. Second place was good enough for me!

Next event: August 1-2 at NHMS.

Speed safely!

The Short Track to Success

2009-07-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

Breaking my collarbone last fall gave me a lot of time to think about my motivation for racing. It also provided the opportunity to whine continually to anyone within earshot, but that's a different story. Hurting yourself in an amateur race seems very stupid after the fact.

"I'll do things differently when I come back," you tell yourself. "No more balls-out sprints for 30th place."

Then you get back on your bike. You ride A LOT because you missed it so much for two months. Your base gets better than ever. And suddenly, in the second week of short track, you cruise across the line in first. I didn't know I was leading the race, because we were intermixed with another field. Here's what it looks like when you win and only realize afterward:

We had a great contingent of Bike Vigilantes last week, with the results as follows:

Singlespeed:
7th: Nick Gibson
26th: Jason Crago
31st: James Buckroyd
DNF :( Joe Partridge - better luck with the nails vs. tires battle next time, Joe.

Cat 1:
7th: Darrin Seeds

Cat 2:
1st: Dave Condon

Cat 1+:
10th: Tony Ohotto
11th: Chris Sautter

Cat 2+:
23rd: Chuck Kraeuter

You can also check out Robin's full set of pictures.

Hood River Super D

2009-06-30T09:17:00.001-07:00

The Yakima domination of the Super D continued at the Hood River Super D last weekend. This race was held in Post Canyon with 3000' of drop and 400' of climbing over 8 miles. The Hood River Super D race is the second longest and the most scenically spectacular race in Oregon. It features very fast and technical singletrack trails that have been filmed in major mountain bike videos. Post Canyon is becoming one of the top mountain bike meccas in North America and athletes are flocking here every summer to test their skills throughout our diverse network of trails.

Darrin rode the course without a prerun and with an over the bars crash off the course into some trees and brush, and several blown out corners! He pulled off a 7th place in Cat 1.

Nick rode the skinsuit in style to a 3rd place in Cat 1.

TOE

2009-06-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

The Test of Endurance was back on 6/21 in traditional muddy style. 50+ miles and 8000+ feet of climbing in Oregon's coast hills. Mike Ripley sent us on new trails this year. Most were ridable. Some were not. Chris raced the Cat 1 35+ group.

Short Track is Back

2009-06-23T09:19:00.000-07:00

The vigilantes had a great showing at the Portland Short Track race last night. Great weather, good company and cold beer made for a perfect night.

A few of our results:
Dave Condon - 2nd - Cat 2
Jeff Nelson - 12th - Cat 2
Nick Gibson - 3rd - Cat 1
Darren Seeds - undetermined - Cat 1
Chris Sautter - 10th - Cat 1 35+
Tony Ohotto - 12th - Cat 1 35+
Dylan VanWeelden - 12th - Singlespeed
James Buckroyd - 22nd - Singlespeed

Great phots from the Condon's here.

Full Results Here.

Today's Cycling Humor

2009-06-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

Brianna Walle Runs the Helvetia Half Marathon

2009-06-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

Coming across the line at 1:47 Brianna Walle of Yakima puts the competition in the pain locker. Brianna is one of the die hard Yakima employees that trains hard every day. At lunch she's always out on a run and commutes to work on her bike nearly every day. Her results have proven her hard work ethics throughout her 2009 season.

Purchase Event Photography at Evan Pilchik Photography

Vigilantes Dominate Ashland Race Series

2009-06-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

Ashland 12 Mile Super D: From the top of Mt. Ashland Ski resort, 5K drop in 12 miles with 600' of climbing- Gibson sweeps the Cat 1 Expert field with a stellar run of 37 minutes flat, stomping out a 46 second lead over second! Huge pro field with Adam Craig throwing down a scary fast run of 33 minutes. Darren Seeds ended up in 5th in the Cat 1, even after clipping a tree at 30+ and getting slammed bending his bar and leaving some battle scars!

There was also the DH Avid Chainless Challenge on Saturday, where racers shuttle to the top of a very fast technical flowy Downhill course and race to the bottom with no chain...it's all about tucked speed, cornering and "no brakes"! Darren Seeds took 3rd place, but wasn't around to claim it...as the team went straight up to the top for practice runs for the next day's race.

More Pictures of the Race Here

Something for Everyone at Cirque du Cycling

2009-06-15T15:57:00.000-07:00

Story by Jonathon Maus of bikeportland.org

Saturday’s Cirque du Cycling event, held on N. Mississippi Avenue, managed to do something very special: It brought together just about every aspect of Portland’s diverse culture of bike lovers. From kids (young and old!) to tall bike builders and everything in between, it was a two-wheeled feast.

Things got started with a family bike ride. After decorating bikes, participants rolled out from the headquarters of Self Enhancement Inc., (a local non-profit that was the benefactor of the event) and headed north to Peninsula Park.

At the park, Sean Sullens and Deanne Gomez from the Piedmont Neighborhood Association greeted riders with a table-full of cookies and fruit snacks. It was great to see so many kids and families out for a day on the bike. (More family ride photos)

Next up was the Art Bike Parade and local bike clubs and gangs showed up in force. The staging area on N. Fremont was turned into an impromptu bike show.

Scrapa, the entry from local
non-profit, SCRAP.

Art bike builder Neal Fegan’s latest work caught many eyes (more on his creation in a separate post), as did the public debut of the Irondelles all-lady tall bike gang. Others groups in the parade were; Team Beer, The Belligerantes, The Kaufman Family (with cute, matching bike shirts!), Freaky Fridays (costumed families on Bike Friday tandems), Revolutionaries on Wheels, The Ladies of Scrapa, cargo bikers, Droupout Bicycles Club, North Freak, and more.

There was a lot to see; including a bunny-hopping cargo bike piloted by Jamie Nichols of Portland-based Metrofiets.

The crowds lining Mississippi Ave. loved the creative and crazy bikes and costumes. (Most everyone, I think, also liked the surprise (naked) parade guests. More coverage and discussion of that here - photos here).

To fully appreciate the scope of the bikes and people (including non-clothed ones) that showed up, watch the slideshow below:

Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.

Racers speed by bleachers
set up for the event.

With the parades out of the way (and the shock of nakedness wore off), the racing action heated up. The region’s fastest bike racers zipped around the .8 mile course, mere inches from onlookers who clapped enthusiastically (being careful not to spill their beers of course).

Re-live some of the race action in the slideshow below:

Created with Admarket’s flickrSLiDR.

The Bike Vigilantes took the line in the men's cat 3 race. All held in and fought through the fast paced crit. Dylan VanWeelden finished in 26th followed by Chris Sautter and Khari Gates. Check out full details of the race on Oregon Cycling Action. Photos by Dave Condon are here.

Meanwhile, at a VIP lounge area set up in the corner of Mississippi and N. Failing (the new Tupelo Apartments) the director of SEI, Inc., Mayor Sam Adams, and local business owners rubbed shoulders and enjoyed complimentary beverages and food.

This event brought together not just many strains of the bike community, but it put biking in a positive light for the entire Boise Neighborhood (well, maybe except for the nakedness). Hopefully, the Cirque will become a respected annual tradition.

Bike Vigilantes at the First Mt Tabor Race

2009-06-12T15:38:00.000-07:00

The vigilantes were out in full force at the first mt tabor race this wednesday. The weather was nice, the fans where heckling and drinking plenty of beer. Oh, how wonderful Portland is. Darrin Seeds took home 4th in the cat 5s, Joe Partridge 15th in the cat 4's and Dylan VanWeelden in 13th in the 3's.

More Pics of Race Here

Darrin Seeds Snags PIR Win

2009-06-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

Rising mountain bike star Darrin Seeds of the Bike Vigilantes took home a win this Tuesday at the cat 5 PIR race. Darrin is not much of a roadie but he's learning the ropes really quick. Single Speed gorilla Joe Partridge gave Darrin the lead out to victory. I'm thinking an upgrade is in the near future.

Riding with Rapha Contintental

2009-05-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

The Rapha Continental is a collection of the United States' most epic rides and routes, published as a online journal with future plans to become the most beautiful cycling guide book of all time. From inspiration to information, the Continental is a commitment to the lost art of cycling and the glory of suffering.

Dylan, a Yakima Bike Vigilante, joined up with the Rapha Continental crew on a ride in the sand dunes of northern Michigan. This is where Dylan first learned the freedoms of riding a bike to get away from it all. The area is well know for it's rolling hills, farms and amazing blue waters. On this day in May none were existent. Rain rolled in and covered the peninsula in fog, leaving the views of the lakes to a bare minimum. The crew of seven riders battled through the rain and wind for 100 miles and had an amazing time doing so.

Check out the Story on Rapha's site.

Check out pictures of the rider here.

Check out Rapha's fine cycling apparel here.

Vigilantes rock PIR Tuesday Night

2009-05-29T22:04:00.000-07:00

Pardon the tardiness for the blog posting, i was out partying with Tom Boonen and my memory is a little hazy.

Tuesday night Condon and myself went out to PIR to race the 3/4 race. What started as a "Lets just sit towards the front and hang on" quickly turned into "Hey lets be in every break possible!" Dave and i took turns bridging and attacking but nothin really stuck. We laid low in the hot laps so we could be around later in the 16 lap race. With 5 to go Dave got in a break that almost broke free, but the powers at front rolled them up once the bell was rung for another hot lap. After the hot lap another couple guys attacked, and i followed. The 3 of us were able to hang on for the next two laps to the finish, thanks to Dave and his ability to slow the group down when needed. I pulled the entire finishing stretch trying not to get caught and was pipped at line......

Almost, but not quite.

The chase group did catch our third rider at the line and dropped him the 4th, yeah it was that close.

Add in the hot lap points and i pulled out a respectable 3rd place, not bad for a fairly new Cat 4. You can read the full story at my blog.

Vigilantes rock Ski to Sea

2009-05-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Darrin's team rocked the Ski to Sea Race in Bellingham, WA. 400 teams with 7 different legs including Skiing, MTB, and Sea Kayaks. This is his 9th time competing in the race, currently the captain of his team which is made up of all Industrial Design grads from Western Washington University in Bellingham. It’s a super fun race with a mix of Olympic Athletes and National champs to costumed themed teams with crazy names.

The transitions get a little crazy with all the team doing their part.

Darrin finished 10th overall in the MTB leg and 6th in the Competitive Open division out of 416 racers.

The team finished 58th overall.

The next Track Star ?

2009-05-21T18:53:00.001-07:00

Exclusive footage....
This little rookie heads out at lunch for a track introduction with the Buckroyd.
little did we know TrackStar 2009 is among us, dressed in his skinsuit, he pops a lap on the apron, then no problem, "bam" up on the 44 degree wall, bosh bosh few laps ...10 mins later he's outsprinting a cat1 Gentle Lover. Game on D Bag!

Thanks to Tony Brush (Waltons dad) for the photos.

Another day at the office

2009-05-21T09:21:00.000-07:00

Just another day at the office. This is just the bikes in one half of the building. They look cool on the racks, but we should be out riding in the sun.

Brian Vernor's New Film Trailer

2009-05-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

Reach the Beach Vigilante Style

2009-05-19T17:24:00.001-07:00

Reach the Beach happens every year, and the Vigilante contingent waxes and wanes. We had a great turnout this year, and several small groups sprinkled strategically throughout the field. Here's one merry band about to embark on a 5-hour paceline:

Upon our arrival in Pacific City, we rested and observed some...questionable use of Yakima racks:

And hung out with our kids, or or friends kids, or our kids friends, whatever...

Spring Thaw MTB Race

2009-05-18T13:12:00.000-07:00

A few of the vigilantes headed down to Ashland for the Spring Thaw Classic MTB race. Darren Seeds took home 10th place in the Cat 1 XC race while Nick Gibson rolled a 3rd place finish in the DH. Congrats guys!

Great SSCXWC Video

2009-05-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

I know it's old news, but check out this video by Brian Ellin from VeloShop.

Singlespeed Cyclocross World Championships 2008 from bce on Vimeo.