15 Drafters headed to Church. The B Team was unified in spirit and Hincapie Drafter kits, but shared few watts (20% off any non-custom Hincapie item with code SBRICKSON) With the impending vertical challenge of 2410′ feet, 4 B team members departed at 4:30, with Z Wrecks and Speedy trailing behind at 5 and 5:15, respectively. Queenie started on his own and joined up with the B Team somewhere out on the long lonesome highway west of Middleton.

When asked about the early start, the former 2-time Olympian bluntly stated, “I like short rides, short hills and short shorts. This is none of those.” Footer backed up her teammate, “I averaged 12mph two weeks ago and haven’t biked since. I’d like to be in before dark.” Special K brought snacks to last through the evening. And so, they were off.

The A team was small but mighty, thanks to the addition of Madison Multisport coaching and cycling phenoms, Comet and Midas. The blue Trek cyclocross bike with knobby tires looked like a hindrance, but the Comet road that thing like a rocket. Welcome to the Draft! His bride, Midas, does not appear in the official Excel Drafter files dating back to 2018, but there is confirmation from trusted sources that she is a card holding Drafter. Midas has not lost her touch. No longer racing on the triathlon circuit, she touches so many lives through coaching, helping endurance athletes reach their goals. Back in her days as a massage therapist, she literally had the Midas touch.

“Turn the Pedals“, lyrics by Bob Seger shamefully modified to meet our Drafter newbies.

On a long and lonesome highway
West of Middleton
You can listen to Comet’s engine
Moanin’ out his big watt song
You can think about his cross bike
Or the girl you know is coming for you

But your thoughts will soon be wandering
The way they always do
When you’re ridin’ 38 miles
And there’s much climbin’ to do

And you don’t feel much like climbin’
You just wish the hill was through

See here I am
On the road again
There I am
Up on Barlow
Here I go
Draftin’’ star again
There I go
Turn the cranks

The B Team stopped at Church for reconciliation as Pitstop’s Garmin Virtual Partner had already completed the ride. “Are we really only at mile 15? I think I need a new virtual partner”.

The A Team was plagued with chain drops. The group climbed the hill to church, looking for guidance. There were whispers of sabotage to keep Cannibal at bay. Octane feigned a pull on KP just to slow down the pace before dropping a chain on Barlow, forcing Cannibal to stop and render assistance, in compliance with the Drafter code.

One thing Fo’Sho, Forshaug Rd was worth the watts. The ski slopes of Tyrol Basin are the Midwest version of a Rocky Mountain high.

Barlow is a beast. Fortunately, we came from the south and mostly enjoyed descending the beast. Skipper hit upwards of 50mph and attempted to keep enough speed to make it up Barlow’s little rollers without pedaling. He was 18 strokes short.

The threatening sky was all talk, no action. The action came in the form of Z Wrecks’ Sazeracs, which took the chill out of our bones and put a wobble in Cannibal’s walk.

There was much to celebrate over a Sazerac. Belle and Cujo rocked the Unbound Gravel 200, a true measure of grit (and grime as it rained heavily most of the day).

Belle wasn’t the only one playing in the gravel. Slow Cow completed the Italy Divide, 1250k of gravel, riding ~50 miles per day with 30 pounds of gear. There are no signs of this drafter slowing down. He has his sights set on the Trans Balkan Race in 2023. For every Slow Cow there is a Pigman.

Keez took the podium for 1st Collegiate Woman at the Pigman Triathlon, Olympic distance. No matter how many women signed up. A win is a win, and this one wearing her new colors representing the Wisconsin Triathlon Team.

Not all victories include a podium. Fighting back from a torn ACL takes grit, too, and Sandlot is well on her way to a victory.

The Drafter mission is to encourage cycling at all levels. There are not enough women out there, and it is our goal to help get them started and empower them to keep riding. BrickO, Sully and Sandlot will be leading beginner level rides for Wheel and Sprocket in Middleton every other Wednesday at 5PM. If you or someone you love needs help pedaling, please join us.

Madison Women’s Cycling Club is committed to this mission as well, an enthusiastic group of riders who welcome all levels. They meet Tue evenings at 6PM at the Biergarten at Olbrich Park.

Looking to rock out without a bike? Check out Queenie with SuperTuesday this Thursday at Concerts on the Rooftop. Tickets are free. Beer is not.

On that note, the route for Monday June 13 is Rock of Ages (32 miles) with the option to add a few extra miles riding to Lodi (38 miles total). Be sure to download the right tune.

RidewithGPS Rock of Ages Plus Lodi link

RidewithGPS Rock of Ages link

We will conclude this post with our weekly CHAMOIS SHARE, or perhaps CHAMOIS SHAME. This one comes from Vintage.

“When I first started riding in Pittsburgh I didn’t know anyone else that rode. I went to REI and bought a pair of what I thought were bike shorts. They were actually just liners. I wore them with nothing on top for good for 5 months, to group rides and everything, without anyone telling me that they could see all of my a**crack. Thank goodness this was 12 years ago in a different state or else I may not be able to show my face on two wheels around here.”

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Ciao! The Drafters were well represented in the Giro d’ Italia. Ok, maybe not, but 4 of the initial 13 members drafted responsibly in the hills of Tuscany. Grazie to the Italian Job (aka Colin O’Brien) at CycleSport Travel for setting up an incredible 9 day tour.

A huge thanks to Captain Joe and Tennille for hosting last week. Temperatures were as cool as the 9 Drafters who showed up to draft the Spring Valley loop. Booker J‘s cool factor was elevated when he joined both the A and B teams. Slow Cow’s cool factor feel a few degrees as he was sighted on the route, but without draft protection. Slow Cow showed up at Free House the previous Monday, the drafter starting line in 2019, so he is definitely trending in the right direction.

Cool riders were welcomed back to a warm meal (thanks to Tennille) and a hot fire.

We will roll into June with one of our favorite rides, Take Me to Church. For those not wanting a full confession, you can skip Church and ride the Brains and Brawn route (staying with the group on Union Valley, turning left on Braun, retracing the route back after turning right on KP).

Ride with GPS link: Take Me To Church

Sending extra watt wishes to Belle and Cujo who are signed up for Unbound this coming weekend. Go get em’, Ladies!

Interested in some rides with a little less oomph? Check out these excellent rides benefitting the Boys & Girls Club and JDRF, and sign up to ride with BrickO’s Drafters.

MOVE4BGC July 16

Lake Ripley Ride July 30

CHAMOIS SHARE: have an interesting chamois story? Send it in! There will be a prize at the end of the year for the best chamois story. What constitutes the best? There are no rules, or even guidelines. There may be an opportunity to vote, but certainly no democratic process.

This one submitted by the Italian Job: In the old days, chamois were made from leather. If that wasn’t bad enough, this one guy on the US cycling team would flip the shorts inside out to ride. No shi*t.

*The Italian Job is a former US hour record-holder and was around when chamois were leather and tires were solid rubber, and square.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The Drafter scribe is currently unavailable, purportedly packing feverishly for an early departure to Italy. Underscore feverishly, as two negative home Covid tests and a negative PCR test have not explained the 8 days of symptoms. While green is her favorite color, this is taking things a bit too far. Apparently, only Supreme Court Justices are able to call in antibiotic favors, which is why the Drafter scribe made off with Special K’s water bottles in hopes of sipping some medicine. The scribe also made off with three of Octane”s espresso porters and two coconut chocolate gluten free brownies, so the healing is bound to begin. So, this post will be brief and to the point. And most likely include an abundance of typos. Please be kind.

25 Drafters, including two newbies, faced the Formidable Festge, many donning their fabulous new Hincapie kits celebrating our 10 YEAR DRAFTING RESPONSIBLY ANNIVERSARY! The group was a bit discombobulated from the start, with four Drafters going rouge at 4:30PM. Nothing like a little head start to make more time for drinking beer. Pipes was struggling with her Garmin. Apparently, the course she loaded last week recommended making a U-turn throughout the entire route. Special K ate all her snacks while waiting for Pipes to upload the route. Draft responsibly. While these four were early, Slow Cow was late to the Draft. Like 3 years late. Somehow he didn’t get the memo that we moved the start from the Free House to our house in 2019. No matter. He needed to recover after conquering Italy Divide.

In addition to the Rogue Group, there was a short pour for two!

The 5:15 group had the usual suspects, and some new suspects. Tick Tock brought his significant other. Riding out of town, BrickO commented on how svelte he looked (this is sensitive territory as Tick Tock is more than just eye candy), and he responded that his girlfriend had him on a strict workout routine. “I may look like a Cadillac, but I drive like a Model T”. Welcome to the Draft, Sargent. It appears you have Tick Tock at full salute. Our second newbie found out about the draft several years ago when she and BrickO were both at Middleton High School dropping off forgotten items for their respective children, while wearing cycling jerseys. It took her awhile to enlist, and we are happy to have her. Welcome Nemo (her Trek has shark teeth on the top tube, but she is a softer soul than Jaws, and finally found her way- or maybe it was Dory who got lost in Finding Nemo? Anyway).

Pitstop showed up early for the B Team, eager to reclaim her Strava segment from the driveway to the bathroom. It looks like she has more competition from Special K in the field segment.

The B Team picked up Duracell near Blackhawk, where there was also a Super Q sighting on KP, riding her mountain bike. Vintage was curiously lurking at Blackhawk, an odd spot to wait for the A team to arrive. His porn stache is hard to miss. There was dissension in the ranks at Cleveland and Deer Run, hills known to bring Drafters to tears. When in doubt, CLIMB. That’s the Drafter motto, and apparently only BrickO was in doubt. Oddly, after the Deer Run descent and before the Cleveland Climb, BrickO and Cujo traded frothy smiles. A solo B+ drafter, perhaps?

The A Team was in full assault mode. Granny, still riding her 40 pound Bianchi, after failing to have it stolen earlier in the day when she left it unlocked at Lakeview Park, and carrying Squirrel’s water bottles, claimed the QOM crown on Deer Run. Blurple was quick to ease BrickO’s pain of losing the coveted crown by pointing out that 1) Granny is much younger than 73, and 2) it wasn’t even close, so there’s no point in trying to reclaim the crown. And so it goes.

Octane played a pivotal role in preparing Granny to claim the QOM, carefully protecting her from the headwind with his massive calves. “Ya know, it would be so much better if these massive muscles could be used for cycling.” He also leveraged his position in the draft with the promise of brownies. Like his calves, not to be underrated.

Octane was the only one who delivered. As he ran low on fuel during the climb up Deer Run, Vintage encouraged him to “just keep climbing. I’ve got Swedish Fish to get you through the bonk.” Only he didn’t. The only thing Vintage delivered on was his stache. Skipper, his beard freshly shaven 8 hours before the draft, left a little something behind.

The mustache mystery is a fun one to solve. Here’s another: there is a new Drafter coming in November 2022. A dozen of Octane’s brownies for the Drafter who can guess the lucky couple!

Next week’s route will take the Drafters through scenic Enchanted and Spring Valleys. NOTICE (Slow Cow): the route will start near Lakeview Park (see GroupMe for the address). Thanks to LuLu and Columbus for hosting. NOTE (Slow Cow): the map and GPS note Glacier Ridge Road, so start your Garmin but realize it won’t find the course until you are on Airport Rd. NOTICE (Slow Cow): There is NO DRAFT ON MEMORIAL DAY.

RidewithGPS link Spring Valley

For those seeking a short pour, please find solace in the Pine Loop. Turn left on Pine off of Spring Valley, and then left on KP. From there, follow the cue sheet above to return safely to Middleton.

Draft responsibly,
BrickO

The Farmer’s Almanac long term forecast for Mondays is a four letter word. Too short for Wordle, and easy to guess if you ventured outside: W I N D. With that, please enjoy/tolerate lyrics from one of the top 15 songs about windy days by Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band:

It seems like Monday
Drafters ready to go
Zephyr was lovely he was the king of all pulls
Grinding up Viaduct with the BMC rolling slow, and
And the miles that we shared
The segments that we claimed
Caught like a wildfire out of control
‘Til there was nothing left to burn and nothing left to prove
And I remember what he said to me
How he swore that it never would end
I remember how he rode by me oh-so-tight
Wish I didn’t cramp now cause I didn’t drink then

Against the wind
We were bikin’ against the wind
We were old and strong, we were bikin’ against the wind

21 Drafters blew in, including one Newbie, Zephyr. Drafting behind this mountain of a man made the 40mph head wind home feel like a gentle breeze. 23 if you count Badger and Columbus, who drafted their own route for ice cream. The Drafter Executive Committee will convene later this month to determine if their dairy land dare qualifies as official Drafter miles. The language in the policy for attendance needs to be reviewed in order to avoid controversy over the coveted end of the year awards for 10+ rides and highest attendance.

The B Team started out as a full dozen, but Gopher and Thing 1 decided running against the wind with a flat tire and loose rotor, respectively, was a losing game and employed Plan B. Turning around before Dane, the duo swapped road for mountain bikes and played dirty.

It was new bike day for Squirrel. And with electronic shifting comes great responsibility, like charging your battery before drafting. A time penalty was served for tardiness as Squirrel was delayed to juice up. Eager to claim Strava segments on the first half of the ride with the wind at his back, Squirrel meekly asked his wife, Granny, to carry his water bottle. Since Granny is already burdened with a 40 pound steel Bianchi, what’s the difference of a few more ounces? What does the Squirrel say? According to northamericannature.com, screeches, rattles, barks and snorts. Kuk, muk-muk and quaa sounds are used to show an interest in mating. He went with, “I’m the luckiest guy, ever.” Muk-muk.

The B team was boss, with Wampus leading the Peloton, literally and figuratively. Wampus has more miles on her Peloton bike than on Bubbles, her well weathered Trek (not weathered enough as you can still make out the white bubbles on her hot pink frame).

The B Team took the “divide and conquer” approach to the wind. With the peloton gap growing, Special K, Footer and Pipes formed the Lantern Rouge. An interesting formation, they opted to ride 3 wide. Perhaps they all wanted to feel the wind through their hair? Special K is presenting a bill to Drafter Congress, making Monday night rides illegal with winds over 15mph. “I was giving it all I had and still couldn’t hit double digits” was the complaint filed in the higher courts by Justice Special K. Drafting officials clarified the laws on drafting responsibly: drafting implies riding in single file, not in a horizontal straight line. Special K will be subjected to remedial training before the next draft. Footer was so disheartened by the wind that she opted out of the post-draft draft.

Knievel has been racking up mega miles, a perk of recent retirement. It is amazing how many miles you can fit into those 40+ hours! It is also amazing at how many bandaids are required to keep this guy in one piece. Knievel is interviewing stunt doubles for the next Draft.

The A team was hunting Strava Segments. Granny was excited to have earned a crown…. which lasted 10 seconds, before Cujo uploaded her Garmin data to Strava. Cujo also captured the Strava segment from the garage to the bathroom, a crown formerly held by Pitstop.

Next week we will face the Formidable Festge, a 33 mile adventure with a few climbs to keep those Strava QOM/KOM hunters in the game. Once could easily skip skip the lollypop on Cleveland and Deer Run to lessen the elevation and miles (stay on Timber to Old Sauk Pass).

RidewithGPS link to Formidable Festge

Keep you eyes open for tracking information on the 10th Year Anniversary Kits from Hincapie Sportswear. A gentle reminder that these packages need to be signed for. You can create a FedEx account and approve an indirect signature if you won’t be home at the time of delivery.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Mother Nature may not be giving us much in the way of sunshine, but the Drafters have been sharing plenty of warmth and light. A shout out to Diesel, a draft from the past, who recently moved back to town and was spotted by BrickO and Z Wrecks drafting responsibly. Diesel and his wife are expecting their second baby this week, and we expect to see him back drafting between diaper changes.

Another ray of sunshine broke through Pheasant Brach Conservancy on Friday. It is hard to believe this mutt (Wyatt with his purple bow), and mullet (Vintage) cleaned up so nicely as groomsmen for LuLu and Columbus.

While LuLu and Columbus were celebrating their first week of marriage, a few other Drafters were celebrating varying decades of life. Sully, Pipes and Granny span over 3 decades of Drafter spirit. It is up to the reader to figure out who was born in which decade. Spoiler: Granny is a misleading Drafter handle. Guess responsibly.

Happy Birthday, Pipes! We appreciate you keeping us flexible, or at least able to reach the handlebars without incurring serious structural damage.

Octane, Special K, Loose Screw, Speedy and BrickO are green with envy, and vow to become stamp collectors on May 13, 2022. Seriously, how cool is this???? Pipes is too humble to announce this stamp release, and the Drafters are too proud of her to let it go unannounced.

With so many bright spots in the week, the gloomy weather and 50 degree temperatures on Monday were easily overlooked. 20 Drafters showed up with brains and brawn.

Five Bad A** Drafters set out towards Cross Plains to conquer Braun Rd, our first challenging climb of the season. The pre-ride wardrobe texts had the airwaves jammed up until 5PM. Winter coats and shoe covers were standard issue for most Drafters, but there were some daring to be baring legs.

The Italian Job, Wampus, Blurple and Super Q made their 2022 debuts.

Granny acquired her handle after completing her first Draft using only the small chainring. New to cycling, she quickly got the hang of shifting out of the granny gear. Now she’s stuck in the big ring…. even up the climb on Braun, leaving most of us in her dust. Cannibal yelled at Granny to dig deeper on the climb, and went on record to say that the verbal lashing was per her instruction, and therefore not in violation of the Drafter code. While there is no doubt Granny has shifted into a strong rider, she struggled to turn on her blinkie light. Luckily, the Italian Job was on the job, making sure Granny’s tail light was shining brightly as she left us all behind on Braun.

Blurple was the clear winner of the OVER-UNDER award. A dead battery left him little option for changing gears as he was grinding up Airport Rd at 40 rpm, and then down the other side at 140 rpm. Fortunately, Octane had baked a batch of brownies and the Over-Under Champion was able to refuel at the finish line.

Next week, we will venture north through Dane and under the historic viaduct, circa 1880. A slight deviation from previous routes, we will continue north to 100 Mile Grove Rd before returning home. For those Drafters looking for a shorter pour, an out and back to Dane is an excellent option.

RidewithGPS link Historic Viaduct 100 Mile Grove

The DIRTY DRAFT is back, Tuesday nights at 5PM at CORP trails near you. Check the Dirty Draft GroupMe for updates, and be sure to consider joining at www.madcitydirt.com.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Create your own Drafter story.  This is what happens when the editor of the blog misses the Draft.  The story must be told through your own creative energy.

Captain and Tennille generously hosted the Draft, setting the bar pretty high with 5-star hospitality ratings. Captain saddled up early to recon the route, ensuring the safety of all those to follow in his tire tracks while Tennille slaved in the kitchen to provide post-draft risotto.  They may be elected permanent hosts.  Register to vote now.  Any other Drafter wanting to appear on the ballot should come forth now to host in the upcoming weeks.

9 Drafters suited up for the B Team.  It was good to see Speedy out of her walking boot and back in cleats. Trying to restrict her movement is like asking a hummingbird to slow down its wings.

What do you surmise is happening here?

1. Queenie arrives late and is distraught over losing his “Bs” but excited to create a unique B+ Team
2. Duracell is claiming to have a superior riding machine (classic LeMond) and Queenie throws up his hands in defeat.
3. Neither has a map. “Where the heck are we going?” Queenie exclaims. Duracell calmly points out that the B Team has the coordinates locked in, but already left the building.
4. The men are discussing the next Super Tuesday concert.

7 Drafters were on tap for the A Team departure.  Squirrel and Granny celebrated new helmet day.  Careful not to become a matching couple, they opted for two shades of POC orange. 

Action photos compliments of Skipper were forwarded to the editor.

This one strongly suggests the Bomber is Back.

I’m a biker, I’m a biker, oh, the Bomber is back
Stone-cold healthy, as a matter of fact
I can bike, I can bike ’cause I’m stronger than you
It’s the way that I move, the things that I do, oh-oh-oh

Back at the ranch, a hot fire, warm risotto and cold drafts await. Belle recused herself from the Draft as her quads had a conflict of interest after her previous day 138 mile tour of Wisconsin.

The route for Monday April 18 will be Brains and Brawn, just under 28 miles with a wee bit of climbing on Braun.  The extended forecast looks crummy, so be sure to check GroupMe for a cancellation (made by 4PM).  The departure will return to its usual location, 5:15 and 5:30 wheels up.

RidewithGPS link: Brains and Brawn

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Indecisive.  That was the general attitude towards the Monday Chapel ride. Input from the entire fleet of Drafters was not solicited.  Only semi-employed/semi-retired (BrickO) and tenured professors (LuLu) have time to text 9-5. Gopher was busy playing with radioactive chemistry, which sounds like a scientific facade for writing prom songs, and delegated LuLu as his proxy. Columbus forgot her phone at home and couldn’t be reached.  Her beloved LuLu voted as her proxy, not realizing C on the text stream wasn’t for Columbus but rather Cannibal. Clearly, tighter voting security measures need to be taken. Vintage was busy combing his mane and didn’t have a free hand to text. Captain Joe was using all his bandwidth scouring the new spring Stio catalog and placing his last-minute Hincapie Drafter gear order, a job that historically fell to Tennille.  Captain took the helm upon turning 50, ordering all his own big boy clothes.  Perhaps Captain should take the helm for Cannibal as well, who insists upon ordering an extra small.  Jersey, that is.

Mid 40s, cloudy sky and dank air dampened enthusiasm.  However, rain and snow forecasted for the remainder of the week made the conditions seem relatively delightful. 16 Drafters deemed outdoor conditions more favorable than mounting their trainers.  There are only so many Netflix series one can binge responsibly.  

Surly outsmarted Mother Nature, riding to the Chapel days in advance.

7 B for Bad Ass Team Drafters geared up for a Chapel ride to Antarctica. Footer was on fire with her battery powered downhill ski gloves.  “I wonder if I can shift or brake with these?” Ironically, the hand surgeon was unconcerned with her digits, but protected her core wearing a puffy winter jacket (over two layers of Smartwool and a polar Hincapie jersey).  Squeak was the antithesis of aerodynamic.  We could almost hear David Gray singing Sail with her hood flying overhead. On that note, we did add Polar Winter jackets in the 10th Anniversary design to the Hincapie store, which is open for business this week.

Sail away with me honey
I put my heart in your hands
Sail away with me honey now, now, now
Sail away with me
What will be will be

Cujo proved to be human after all, admitting that her charge on Cannibal on the first draft left her panting for days.  She has her sights set on some gnarly gravel adventures.  Beware of the dog.  She’s not going to stay tame for long.

9 A Team Drafters were treated once again to Vintage’s mullet and ‘stache.  This classic style has earned a spot in the Drafter Facial Hair Hall of Fame (FHHF).  

Dedicated wife, Thing One, spoke with with our on-site Drafter reporter about her hubby’s induction. “Hate the sin, not the sinner.”   Interpret as you will.  The Steve Miller Band wrote a song to play at the FHHF induction ceremony.

Some people call me the space cowboy, yeah
Some call me the gangster of love
Some people call me Vintage
‘Cause I speak of the pompatus of love

I’m a spinner
I’m a grinner
I’m a lover
And I’m a sinner

I ride my bike in the sun
I’m a joker
I’m a smoker
I’m a midnight toker
I get my lovin’ on the run
Ooh, whoo, ooh, whoo

Facial hair blowing in the wind, Vintage set the pace with Cannibal hanging on to the wisps of blonde locks trailing from his helmet.  Adhering to the Code of Ethics, “LEAVE NO DRAFTER BEHIND”, and also grateful for an excuse to pause at the top of the Woodland Dr climb (also the location of a cemetery- happenstance?), LuLu and BrickO counted the Drafters one by one and came up with only 8.  TCB confirmed he was the caboose. Knievel was amiss. Perhaps he pulled another dare devil stunt, resulting in bodily harm? A call, a text, “but there’s no reply at all” ~Genesis the book or Phil Colins, unclear.  The two Drafters descended the “hillacious” crest of Woodland in search of Knievel. A short while and 3 miles later, TCB came upon a rider unfamiliar to him (TCB has missed a few drafts, busy with 3 kids under 5).  “Are you Knievel?”, he inquired. The never lost was found.  From this day forward, the route will be known as “Chasing the Ghost of Knievel”.

An amendment to the Drafter Code has been made: leave no drafter behind, or ahead.  LuLu and BrickO practiced remedial math by counting the early to arrive green-winged teals on Balts Pond, now competent counting to 9. This is a good opportunity to remind all Drafters to text someone (preferably someone drafting) if you do an about face. Clearly, you can’t rely on a proper head count.

Chilled noses and toeses kept the post-draft draft indoors.  In honor of the Chapel Ride, Booker J cracked open an Evil Twin’s Aún Más A Jesús. Booker knows thou shall not covet thy neighbor’s beer.  Thou shall just open the fridge and help thy’s self.  Cannibal and Octane helped thy selves to a short pour of BrickO’s Rouge Double Chocolate Stout.  Little did she know that the “double” referred to the number of glasses required.  More math. Urgh. 

Captain and Tennille will be hosting the Draft next week.  We have to take advantage of the weeks when they aren’t in Montana.  Tennille proposed adding cowboy hats to the Drafter ensemble.  She likes her cowboys big and strong.  Captain Joe is comfortable with his stature.  Cannibal retracted is XS jersey order.  And Booker J started speaking Spanish like he was Don Juan in between gulps of Aún Más A Jesús.  

The route for Monday, April 11 will depart from Captain and Tennille’s ranch in Middleton Hills and head to Martinsville. Check GroupMe for the address and weather updates.  B Team rides out at 5:15, A Team to follow at 5:30.  BYOB and lawn chairs for the post-draft draft.

RidewithGPS link Martinsville Madrina

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The temperature may be too cold to Draft tonight, but your credit card will be heating things up quickly. Hincapie Sportswear graciously agreed to open up all the previous kit designs, in addition to the 10th Anniversary kit for 2022. I know some Drafters have favorite kits that are not passing the see through test (not that anyone is looking….) so feel free to go back in time and reorder your favorite kit.

THE STORE WILL CLOSE MONDAY, APRIL 4th.

A few updates and reminders: VELOCITY is the RACE cut. It fits snug, so if you don’t like tight elastic on your arms and torso, this cut isn’t for you. AXIS is the CLUB cut, a little more relaxed and little longer in the torso. Shorts and bibs come in two inseam lengths. Most, but not all, have gone with the longer length. You do you. The sleeveless “guns” jerseys are no longer available. Sigh. This year, we have a MTB jersey for those Dirty Drafters looking to heat things up.

Packages are delivered by FedEx and REQUIRE A SIGNATURE, as they are coming from Columbia. Keep that in mind as you put down an address. In the past, it was possible to go into your FedEx account and give an indirect signature. Not sure how that will play out this year.

Finally, as these are custom orders, there are NO RETURNS OR EXCHANGES. If you order something that doesn’t fit, please contact me, and not Hincapie Sportswear (unless there is a defect, then by all means, contact them). Historically, I am able to find a Drafter in need and can make a deal. Better yet, contact me ahead of time and I can find a Drafter with similar anthropometrics and gear for you to try on.

You are invited to enjoy 20% any NON-CUSTOM item this year with code SBRICKSON. Unfortunately, the code does not work with the links below.

10^th anniversary: https://order.hincapiecustom.com/BRICKOS10TH

2021 Barley and Hops Design: https://order.hincapiecustom.com/BRICKOS2021DESIGN

2020 Beer and Sprocket Design: https://order.hincapiecustom.com/BRICKOS2020DESIGN

2018 Design 6-Pack: https://order.hincapiecustom.com/BRICKOS2018DESIGN

2017 Design Green Beer Skyline: https://order.hincapiecustom.com/BRICKOS2017DESIGN

2015 Design Retro Red & Blue: https://order.hincapiecustom.com/BRICKOS2015DESIGN

Hope to see everyone Monday April 4 for the Chapel Ride.
Draft responsibly,

BrickO

The 10-year anniversary of BrickO’s Drafters started off with an unprecedented and impressive number of strong quads.  27 Drafters, including 3 new recruits, reported for spring training.  A few more drifted in for the post-draft draft, a good sign that our priorities are in order for 2022.

The Draft was full of surprises, starting with 70 degrees in mid-March. A sea of green jerseys without jackets or leg warmers filled the staging area. The first to arrive was Vintage, wearing an official green Hincapie Drafter jersey (surprise), a porn stache (bigger surprise) and mullet (expected).  With 45 minutes to spare before wheels up, Vintage headed out for an extensive warm up, blonde strands escaping from the orderly mullet, blowing in the breeze.

Dan-yelly arrived a full 15 minutes before liftoff, which is 16 more than her usual debut.  Her secret?  Tobacco City Boy left work at 2PM in order to round up their 3 children, secure them with a babysitter and travel from Oregon to make the Draft.  After two-years MIA, TCB was barely recognizable.  Fortunately, someone spotted a drafter green jersey as he drove by, just as A team was rolling out, cancelling out Dan-yelly’s timeliness.   

TCB wasn’t the last to arrive.  Skipper sent a forgotten shoe SOS from the Beltline near Todd Drive.  He headed back to Monona minutes before the gates closed for departure.  His Patagonia hangover after spending 10 days cycling with Columbus and LuLu had him a bit discombobulated.  Skipper did remember to bring a 4 pack of Chocolate Mint Guinness, confirming his drafting priorities are in order.  

What is chocolate mint beer without chocolate chip cookies? Gopher rose to the occasion, bringing dozens of freshly baked cookies, gluten free, no less.

And what occasions we have to celebrate! In no particular order: congratulations to Knievel and Hundo on their retirement and to LuLu on receiving tenure.  The UW lost and gained some amazing Drafters, respectively.  Kudos to Pitstop and Pres for persevering after their respective bike crashes last year, giving us the courage to keep on pedaling.  Bomber beat cancer and had enough energy left in the tank to ski the Birkie, inspiring all of us to dig deep.  SuperQ came back stronger than ever, without the added weight of an ACL.  Sandlot thought that was an interesting training paradigm and ditched her ACL, along with shedding a little extra fibula weight. Cookie Monster went the other direction, gaining a belly full of beautiful baby who will be joining the draft later this summer.  Thing 1 started medical school, and we are all hoping she chooses dermatology (in part, to stunt hair growth on Vintage’s mullet and porn stache). Granny Zilla is on dermatologic retainer for all drafter needs.  So far, she’s cured toe fungus, hair loss and saddle sores. 

Our B for Bad A** team was full strength.  The 12-pack headed out, with a guest appearance by FishNBoots.  Last seen, FishNBoots (AKA Tough Girl) was being escorted off the Funtathalon course after seeking bonus whiskey shot points, missing the cut off time.  He received bonus points today for bringing along his beautiful bride, Venus.  She definitely burns hot and bright, and spins like no other.  Just as her namesake spins in the opposite direction of Earth and most other planets, Venus spins like no other Earthling.  Her every step is like watching a New York Ballet performance.

Our second Newbie put to rest a hotly debated physiology discussion about the “suffering gene” and the brain’s ability to set and enforce physical limits beyond one’s VO₂max. The “Central Governor” theory is the crux of Jens Voigt’s famous command, “Shut up legs. Do what I tell you to do!” Gov seeks out suffering, and in some odd way, find comfort in it.  She’s gonna fit right in.

The A Team roster held 15 Drafters, including our third Newbie. She waited in the wings to get a feel for the bad boys leading us out.  Somewhere before Riley Tavern, with the usual suspects pulling us at a comfortably uncomfortable pace, she made her move.  That is, she moved to the head of the line, going after Cannibal like a rapid dog.  I could almost feel the froth from her mouth as Cujo flew by me, quads ripping at the seams of her cycling shorts.  The Drafter Illustrated Quadriceps Edition will be a beefy competition between Super Q and Cujo, coming down to the last myofiber.

The gentle southerly wind blew all sorts of unusual heat at the B for Bad A** Team.  Dan-yelly appeared stranded, calling for assistance.  Cannibal, demonstrating proper Drafter etiquette, slowed up to ask if she needed help.  She did, but not with her bike.  Dan-yelly had a small window at 5:30 to register her 3 kiddos for swim lessons, and was on hold waiting for the next available operator. These coveted swim lesson spots go faster than Cannibal downhill. TCB was simultaneously stopped, on the phone with their babysitter.  As he pulled over, listening to the babysitter’s concerns over the youngest’s symptoms, he did what any responsible parent would do and trusted his instincts. A reminder: TCB had left work at 2PM in order to make his first ride in 2 years. The symptoms weren’t THAT bad. No children were harmed as TCB completed the ride, in the dark, as the lights Dan-yelly gave him for his birthday back in August were still in the box next to the diapers.  The next drafted Drafter we encountered was Pres, his shiny new Madone glistening in the sun as his Garmin signaled to “make a U-turn”.  Like millions of others, he is eagerly waiting for Trek’s autopilot Madone to be released. A stone’s throw from the Riley Tavern, Pres was at minimal risk for dehydration.   

The A Team had their own set of issues.  BrickO’s saddle bag (not a metaphor) busted a move during Cujo’s attack on Paulson Rd.  There is speculation that she cut the bag loose out of fear of doing battle with the frothy dog.  Captain Joe slowed up to retrieve and return BrickO’s bag, and shortly thereafter disappeared from the Draft due to cleat failure.  Love em’ and leave em’ is apparently BrickO’s new motto.  Remedial training for Drafter etiquette will be offered in the upcoming weeks. Skipper, being late and last to the draft after returning home to retrieve his shoes, ensured all Drafters were accounted for.  He also confirmed that the wind shifted 180 degrees, as he soloed against a headwind the entire route. It must have been the Venus effect, spinning the wind around the other way.

The temperature dropped precipitously, but the cold was no match for Z Wrecks.  With a fire ready to be lit in the Solo Stove and the industrial strength patio heater armed with a new tank of propane, he kept the chill away.

Columbus made her way through the Patagonia hangover to join us, along with Thing 1, who had medical school leadership duties that kept her from drafting, but not from riding the course earlier in the day.

The weather for next week looks sketchy.  A game day decision will be made by 4PM and broadcast on GroupMe.  If you aren’t on the GroupMe Drafter channel and would like to be, please text or email BrickO your cell number. Wheels up at 5:15 B Team and 5:30 A Team. We wait for no one. Except those who leave work at 2PM in an effort to make it on time and are dressed in green.

Daylight will be a challenge for the next few weeks, so our routes will stay fairly short.  The Chapel Ride is a 20 mile tour north, with a brief section on the bike path, crossing Hwy 12 just after Springfield Corners Park and Ride and before St. Therese Chapel.

RidewithGPS link for Chapel Ride

If the ride is cancelled due to inclement weather, the Chapel Route will be recycled and executed the following week.

A link to the Hincapie Store for 2022 Drafter gear should be coming later this week. It will be posted on the blog and in GroupMe.

Draft responsibly,

BrickO

Spring has sprung and it is time for the Drafter song to be sung.  2022 represents the 10^th Anniversary of the Drafters.  Our humble beginnings have evolved from 13 to 137 strong.  To be clear, we are not necessarily the strongest cycling group with respect to pumping wattage through the quadage, but I challenge any other group to be stronger in spirit.  And beer consumption, always drafting responsibly.

The season will kick off, pending cooperative weather, this Monday, March 21^st.  As the pandemic is quieting down and Drafters are less likely to be working remotely, we will return to a later start time to accommodate those on the clock. 

5:30PM will be the official “wheels up” departure time.  The B for Badass Team may elect for a 5:15PM departure.  As a reminder, the B Team isn’t less fit, but tend to 1) make frequent Pit Stops

2) wrong turns,

3) ignore Strava segments or/and 4) like the male to female ratio.  

Regardless of your wave, please be on time (Dan-yelly has special exemption status).

Departures will mainly be from the Z-BrickO bike hub and pub. Several Drafters have offered to host rides this summer, which should be a fun way to explore and get lost on more beautiful country roads.  Cannibal is on point for garden drinks. Let’s see if anyone else has the quads to rock an apron.

The blog will provide weekly route information, including a downloadable PDF cue sheet and RidewithGPS link so you can upload the route your GPS device.  Bread crumbs will be left by Vintage, who usually starts snacking within the first few miles, for those who are technologically challenged. 

There is no guarantee the cue sheets are 100% accurate, although Columbus, our Team Cartographer, double checks BrickO’s shoddy work.  When in doubt, climb.

It is highly recommended that you download the WordPress App. The sighs are audible… yes, you’ll need to create an account.  And remember a password. It’s free and painless.  Get over it. The route and map are at your fingertips with the app.  A blog entry generates an email, if you have it set up that way, so you will know when the route has been posted.  Last minute updates will be communicated using GroupMe.  This includes road construction, detours, cancellations due to weather, and random important updates Drafters feel compelled to share. Send BrickO your mobile number to be added to the GroupMe Drafter list. 

These rides are 100% unsupported. Each Drafter is responsible for knowing the route, bike maintenance and sustenance.  Drone Master went half a season before realizing tires required air.  Aerospace engineers are some sorta special breed.  When in doubt, follow Vintage.  The breadcrumbs will keep you from getting lost or going hungry.  The group usually doesn’t stay together, but no Drafter is left behind. 

There are very few rules, but it is important to follow the few we have: 1) Be nice.  Leave the Draft a better group than you found it (which is no small feat). 2) Follow the rules of the road, wear a helmet and have a light.  We are a visible (high vis green, to be exact) group in the community and want to make a good name for cyclists everywhere. 3) Don’t draft alone.  Get it?  The name implies as much. 4) Have fun. Grow your cycling passion.  The last is a suggestion more than a rule: 5) In the spirit of the Draft, wear green.  Not your color?  Think Yoda, Hulk, Kermit, Green Lantern, Shrek, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.  Grinch.  Don’t let your Drafter heart be two sizes too small.    

10-year anniversary kits will be available through Hincapie Sportswear.  The online store will be opening later this week and a link will be provided.  Order at will! If you are uncertain about sizing, be sure to try on a kit before ordering as there are no returns, only intradrafter trading. The Velocity series is race cut (tight fitting) while the Axis is club cut (loose fitting, and a bit longer in the torso, which Drafters over 6 feet tall sometimes appreciate).  Bibs and shorts come in two different lengths, so be sure to order carefully. Packages are delivered FedEx to your home, so there is no middle-drafter.  They MUST be signed for, so give some thought to that, or sign electronically with your FedEx account (another password to remember, sorry).

The post-draft draft is an important part of the perpetual dehydration plan, approved by medical professionals nowhere, and deeply entrenched in Drafter culture. Nothing is provided except a patch of lawn and fire pit, which has been known to expand onto said patch of lawn. Feel free to bring a beverage, food and lawn chair.  Some Drafters order pizza, others pack a delicious dinner, most salivate longingly and then head home to feast.  You do you.

The season will start in the 20-mile route range, grow with daylight to 40ish mile routes in July, and then taper back down until dusk closes out the season in October. There will be many opportunities to ride events as a team. In fact, registration for the Lake Ripley Ride just opened up and is discounted through the end of March.  Hope to see you out there on July 30 (be sure to register with BrickO’s Drafters).

For those Drafters who like to get dirty, our MTB contingent is growing.  Wednesday evenings are the unofficial Dirty Draft, rotating between various trails like Blackhawk, Pleasant View, Quarry Ridge and CamRock.  Unsure about getting dirty?  No problem.  All levels welcome. More details to follow once the trails dry out.

There is a Drafter crew already signed up for the Chequamegon MTB festival Sept 17. 

Our first Drafting adventure will be a short draft to Riley Tavern.

GPS link here

Let the season begin!

Draft responsibly,

BrickO