November 28th, 2006

Hi to all, just have too much to talk about. ON past monday we received the p bikes from Italy and on tuesday we got into Ken's Avalanche and cruised to the awesome factory in Waterford Wisconsin. I was on bike overload. So much to see. We were hosted by Dave who kinda runs the show at Waterford. Ex Trek man and boy does this guy love bikes. We also met Mark who is in charge of designing the bikes. We then had a tour of the factory. we saw were the tubing and lugs get picked and mitered. Then the different work stations where frames get put together , then the paint station and finally the inspection and boxing. Waterford also makes Gunnar, Heron and projects for Rivendell Bicycle Works and also welds Some specialty Bmx frames. They have also welded for Salsa Cycles. Man do these guys know STeel. Most impressive was seeing the bikes "Naked" before all the work gets covered by primer and paint. I love the lug work on the Waterfords and the clean tig welding on the gunnars. Anyone interested in an quality american made, tubed, painted frame Contact Dave at Waterford and you will not be dissapointed.
When we got done with the tour we went downtown Waterford to Grannys and had a great lunch of Bacon Cheeseburgers, fries and homemade soup. We also brought back a Gunnar Ruffian 29er and a plum colored Gunnar crosshairs. I am in bike heaven.
Today it was a real mess out and I rode the Gunnar streetdog to Argonne and busted a nut there. It was cold and wet there and the hills really hurt after a while with the 42x16. I definitely have to tone down the gearing and consider a cross tire in the back to replace to top touring. Got home and ate like a lion.
We darted to the Art Institute for Jamie to photograph a painting then Pizza at Pompei to end the day. Finally a great day off. Tonite we expect a snow storm and we will see what happens with it. Iam prepared. Thinking about Lake winter boots, craft jacket and some new warmer gloves.
Tomorrow more on setting up your bike for winter riding. Received Brass bell form RivBike, acme reflectors. Great stuff. Girls like the Ivo lip balm.
Peace,
Ari