TOM d' Biker

Puning Cave, almost!

2011-11-27T20:36:00.000+08:00

I pedaled all the way from Novaliches to Barangay Bayabas, DRT, Bulacan. That's about 45 kilometers one way.

But, I reached up to the river only. I didn't venture going to the cave anymore; as the way after crossing the river is no longer bikeable.

As I turned around to pedal back, a group of bikers was arriving. I just say hi to them and left.

Another ride with Team Kaka

2011-11-26T22:00:00.004+08:00

I woke up early today and able to join the ride of Team Kaka.

The ride started from Pangarap, North Caloocan. We attempted to pass Araneta Avenue; but, the guard at the first gate didn't allow us to pass. "It's Saturday and the boss is here", he said. Thus, our guide herded us through a village and circumvented. After negotiating some uphills and passing a single track, we ended up at the middle of Araneta Avenue. I just learned a new way. We managed to pass under the boom of the second gate as there's no guard around.

At the Blessed Sacrament Novitiate

I thought we're going to pass Bricktown. But, instead we took the trail ahead. It's my first time passing this trail. Unfortunately, I fell down once.

To be continued . . .

TweetyPot is back in shape

2011-10-11T18:06:00.002+08:00

TweetyPot (my 29er) is up and about again after two weeks.

Fortunately, Gravity Works in Makati City has two available tubes. On my way to the bikeshop, another luck struck. A biking buddy, Dennis Castillo, called up informing that there are four available tubes at JBL. I was glad he did me a favor by reserving the tubes. Thanks Papa Denz.

Now, TweetyPot has five spare tubes. But, two more bike shops have run out of stocks.

I can't ride my TweetyPot

2011-10-03T21:52:00.003+08:00

TweetyPot (my 29er) has been out of commission since two weeks ago due to damaged tubes.

First, after pumping the front tire in preparation for a ride, it got suddenly flat. There's no time to fix it, I used AlitePot (my 26er).

When I got back home, I found out that the base of the Presta valve was torn. Thus, I replaced it with my spare tube. The next day, I bought another spare tube.

The following weekend, I noticed the rear tire's flat. The culprit's the same. So, I had to replace it with the new tube. But, while pumping it, it exploded. Darn!

I tried to buy tubes; but, they're out of stocks from well known bike shops I inquired from - Knobbies, All Terra, Bikezilla, Iron Bike, Sabak and Bike Town.

I'm now familiar with the Bulacan-Rizal route

2011-09-18T08:13:00.007+08:00

At last, after the ride from SJDM, Bulacan to Rodriguez, Rizal yesterday, I've become familiar with the route already. I've ridden this route for a few times but hadn't able to memorize the route yet.

The ride was organized by YummyNia. The group who rendezvoused at Lagro met the Bulacan group at Tungkong Mangga. Thence, we proceeded to jackhammer trails and bricktown. When the group broke up, most of the riders turned left going to Ygay, Tungko; while, I, with two riders from Marikina City, turned right going to Rodriguez, Rizal.

Meet-up at Lagro

At Tungkong Mangga merging with the Bulakenyos

Bricktown

Thanks YummyNia for the pictures.

Two days of quickie rides

2011-09-05T05:26:00.001+08:00

Last Saturday and Sunday, I had limited time to bike. I needed to be home by 1:00 pm and 12:00 noon, respectively. So, I just biked the nearest trails from our place.

Saturday - at Macabud, Rodriguez, Rizal. I was supposed to join a group of bikers going to Angat, Bulacan. Instead, I just sent them off from Neopolitan Oval up to Pangarap Village in North Caloocan only. Thence, I entered the Pangarap Village and into Macabud trails. I got home by 1:30 pm.

Sunday - at Tungko, SDM City, Bulacan. It's about 30 minutes by pedaling from our place. I just pedaled up to a point where I could return back home before 12 noon.

The unfinished business

2011-08-20T19:57:00.004+08:00

We were supposed to traverse two basic trails - the Macabud then the Maarat; but, we managed the Macabud trails only and ended up at the Timberland gate only.

Met-up at Caltex Station along Regalado Avenue, Novaliches, Q. C. and rode out at about 6:45 this morning

At the Pangarap Village entrance

Somewhere at the Macabud trails

The muddy Maly-Amid Road going to Shotgun

Shotgun Avenue

Exiting Shotgun Avenue

The business is still unfinished.

Shotgun ride with Paulvana and KBrianne

2011-08-13T21:56:00.001+08:00

The ride was cooked at PMTB but the planned route was the Wall, Timberland Heights and Maarat basic trails. I met with riding buddies, Paulvana and KBrianne, at Jolibee Fairview at around 6:00 this morning. Thence, we pedaled all the way to San Mateo, Rizal.

When we reached the intersection to Shotgun, I stopped and asked them if they'd like to try the Shotgun. They've already climbed the Wall but never the Shotgun yet. Hesitant; but, they agreed. He he he . . . They were unsuspecting all along that they'd be shotgunned.

Paulvana and KBrianne

Muddy weekend rides

2011-08-08T04:42:00.000+08:00

It was raining for the past days. Consequently, the trails were muddy despite there were no more rains last weekend.

I had been shunning muddy trails, as much as possible, to avoid getting my bikes, clothes and things full of muds.

But, last weekeend, I craved for them. Saturday, I passed by the Macabud trails on my way to San Mateo, Rizal.

While resting somewhere in Macabud

And, on Sunday, I went to Mt. Maarat and passed by the basic trails going to Giant store adn vice versa.

After the Maarat Trails ride

Both trails were muddy with slippery portions. And, I had hard times negotiating them. Unfortunately, there were slips and falls. To avoid more falls, I just walked and pushed my bikes some of the times.

Hitting the 10,000 kilometers mark

2011-07-07T05:14:00.002+08:00

Last night, I bike commuted from my office in Makati to home in Novaliches via Marikina/San Mateo with a distance of about 46 kilometers. And, in the process, I logged my first 10,000 kilometers. I hit the myriad mark in about two years and one month of biking.

It's another milestone in my biking career.

Rainy tour of Bulacan

2011-06-20T17:59:00.001+08:00

I was supposed to join a trail ride in Licao-licao this morning. But, it's cancelled due to continuous rains.

At 9:00 AM, it's still drizzling. Nonetheless, I pedaled off towards Bulacan. I'd planned to explore San Rafael, Bulacan. From our home in Novaliches, I took the following routes: Quirino Highway to North Caloocan to San Jose Del Monte City to Norzagaray to Angat to San Rafael, Bulacan. On the way back, I proceeded to Baliuag to Bustos to Angat to Norzagaray to San Jose Del Monte City via Tigbe to North Caloocan to Novaliches.

The ride took me six hours. And, it's another day of fun biking under the rain.

Rainy father's day ride

2011-06-19T18:47:00.006+08:00

I was supposed to join a PMTB group in its Sierra Madre loop. I woke up early at 3:30 AM only to find out that it's downpouring. Then, I felt my bed was pulling me back. Zzzzzz . . .

I woke up again at around 7:00 AM. The rain hadn't stopped yet; and it's no intention of stopping because of typhoon "Egay".

At 9:00 AM, I prepared to bike - rain or raining. No destination yet in mind, I just pedaled away and enjoyed the rain. I ended up in one of my favorite biking placeS - in San Mateo. At the crossroads to Shotgun and Timberland, I stopped and contemplated on which one to climb. I decided on the latter.

It's another day of fun biking, which made more fun by the rain.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY TO ALL FATHERS! AND, HAPPY 150th BIRTHDAY, PEPE!

Two years of biking

2011-06-14T14:28:00.005+08:00

Exactly two years ago, I first rode my first bike around the UP Diliman Academic Oval. I just pedaled a few laps. Since then, I've already covered about 9,500 kilometers.

I considered the following as my biking accomplishments so far:

Made 3 century (in miles) rides - 1) Nova to Ternate to Nova: 204 kms.; 2) Nova to Tagaytay to Nova: 180 kms.; and, 3) Nova to Silang, Cavite to Nova: 168 kms.

Climbed non-stop/no dismount - Mt. Maarat via Shotgun, Timberland, and Cabading / Antipolo via Marikina, Pasig, and Teresa / Mt. Samat.

Converted my two bikes to clipless pedals.

I'm glad I'm hooked into it. And, I enjoyed every second of my saddle time - butt soring or not.

There's only one regret - that I didn't start biking much earlier in my life.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO ME!

Wifey buys me another jersey

2011-06-09T05:54:00.000+08:00

I have a new jersey. It was bought by wifey when she went shopping at Greenhills Shopping Center last Monday. I first wore this yesterday on my birthday ride in San Mateo, Rizal.

My birthday ride

2011-06-08T21:44:00.000+08:00

I woke up early and looked out the window. It's raining; and, I went back to bed.

I woke up again after 2 hours; but, it's still raining. I waited for another hour. It seemed the rain wouldn't stop. So, I decided to push through with my birthday ride despite the rain.

I pedaled all the way to San Mateo and enjoyed my wet birthday ride.

Another fall

2011-05-29T17:29:00.003+08:00

I climbed Shotgun this morning and attempted to break my no dismount record at 42.5 minutes.

Approaching the last ascent, I took advantage of the momentum from the descent. I kept on pedaling until the bike slowed down; then I shifted to granny - front gear to the smallest cog. However, the chain overshot and disengaged from the crank. The bike suddenly stopped and I immediately unclipped my left foot, which I usually do; but, lo and behold, the bike leaned to the right. It's tool late to unclip my right foot. And, BANG!

Fortunately, I suffered no injury not even a minor scratch. The saddle though of my Marin Alpine 29er was slightly damaged.

I replaced the chain and continued pedaling. And, the attempt was aborted.

My new water bottle

2011-05-24T19:59:00.000+08:00

I bought a new water bottle. It's a Camelbak Podium Chill.

Morong to Subic and back to Morong

2011-05-22T20:12:00.004+08:00

This morning, from the resort in Morong, Bataan,

I pedaled all the way up to Subic Free Port Zone.

But, up to the Morong gate only.

U-turned

And, took a rest in a bikers pit stop before proceeding back to Morong.

Distance traveled was about 40 kilometers.

Balanga to Morong ride pictures

2011-05-21T22:28:00.001+08:00

My family, in two cars, overtook me at the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant. And, these pictures were taken my my daughter, Jaja.

Balanga City to Morong, Bataan

2011-05-21T21:46:00.004+08:00

We're back to Bataan again this weekend for another family outing.

Today, we drove from Novaliches to Balanga City and rendezvoused at my sister-in-law's house. From there, I left ahead at 9:30 am and pedaled all the way to Morong, Bataan. It took me three hours, enduring the long uphills and enjoying the long downhills, to reach my destination. My family, in two cars, overtook me somewhere after the gate of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.

After two hours of ride, I stopped, replenished my water, and a little rest.

When there's uphill,

There's downhill

Finally, I arrived at Phi-Phi Resort

Rehydrate, rehydrate:

My new headlight

2011-05-19T17:28:00.002+08:00

I've been pedaling at night. I use two headlights (one is steady and the other's blinking) and two or three blinking rear lights. The headlights are fine if riding on streets with street lights. Otherwise, they aren't bright enough to illuminate the road.

So, I bought a brighter light - a Cateye HL-EL320. I also keep the other headlight as a blinker. Now, I could bike safer even on a dark night.

No dismount climb to Mount Samat in 48 minutes

2011-05-15T21:17:00.000+08:00

My first climb to Mount Samat was in Christmas 2009. I dismounted to rest 5 or 6 times. I made another climb in June 2010 with two dismounts.

Last month, I attempted to climb it again coming and pedaling all the way from Novaliches. But, I arrived in Balanga at dusk already. So, I didn't push through with the climb.

Last night, we attended the debut celebration of our niece in Balanga City. Hence, this morning, I had the opportunity to climb Mt. Samat again. And, I'd attempt of doing it non-stop, no dismount - from the arch to the gate.

From Balanga City, I pedaled up to the arch of the Dambana ng Kagitingan. After setting my stop watch, I pedaled off and up. At the gate, my stop watch read exactly 48 minutes.

My new Timberland record

2011-05-08T20:22:00.004+08:00

It's been quite a time since I timed my Timberland climb.

I did again this morning; and, it's 19 minutes and 30 seconds. My previous best time was 20 minutes and 30 seconds last February 6.

By the way, I met Jester of Team Adventureros and his officemate, Ted, on my way up. It's the first time Ted climbed the Wall to Timberland.

Me and Jester. The bike on the left is Ted's Trek 29er.

All Terra Eco Trails (Blue Zone)

2011-05-07T19:27:00.004+08:00

This morning, I experienced the Blue Zone of All Terra Eco Trails in Mount Maarat in San Mateo, Rizal. Currently, there are two zones - the Blue and the Green. The blue zone is for the more experienced mountain bikers; while the green zone for newbies. These trails are newly built and have been opened for quite some time. I was planning to test the green zone first before trying the blue zone.

But, the Tour of Posers, which I joined this morning, had the blue zone in its itinerary. So, I had no choice but to go to the blue zone. True enough, the blue zone is really for the more experienced mountain / trail bikers.

At the entrance of the zone, I already felt scary. Fortunately, I was able to conquer my fear. The trails are really technical. I made some assessments in some downhill areas and decided to bike push.

Araw ng Kagitingan ride

2011-04-10T06:00:00.002+08:00

Yesterday, I joined the PhilMoFo's bikers to the trails of Macabud, Rodriguez; San Jose Del Monte City and Norzagaray, Bulacan. We rendezvoused in San Mateo, Rizal and proceeded to our destinations at around 7:30 am.

It was my first time in these trails; hence, I encountered difficulties especially in downhills and uphills. Actually, this is the most difficult ride I've ever made.

Me, Ben, Milo, Lexter, Raf, and Chris.

Back to Shotgun after 3 months

2011-03-19T22:32:00.004+08:00

The last time I climbed Shotgun was last December 11. It had been a long time; and, I decided to go back there this morning.

With TweetyPot, I pedaled all the way to San Mateo, Rizal. At Aling Tina's Eatery, there's the group of Ageless Warriors going up to Shotgun; and, I was invited to join them.

At about 7:30 am, we took off to Shotgun up to Giant Store via the Roxas trail. After eating our breakfast, we pedaled back to Aling Tina's via the Basic Trail and Timberland.

Thanks for the wonderful ride, Ageless Warriors, and hoping to ride with you again soon.

The answer to my handlebar grips problem

2011-03-16T20:26:00.002+08:00

The stock handlebar grips of my Marin Alpine Trail 29er were slipping. I put some adhesive but the problem recurs after sometime.

I was thinking it of replacing them with grips with lock-on.

Yesterday, I brought my bike to the bike shop, where I bought it, for the replacement of the broken spoke and for tune up.

There, I found the answer to my slipping grips. I bought a pair of the lock on grips and replaced the old ones. The brand of the grips is Answer. A pair is P1,100.

Wifey buys me a new jersey

2011-03-13T10:01:00.003+08:00

Wifey bought me a new jersey.

She was shopping last Friday night at Greenhills Shopping Center and spotted this:

Broken spoke

2011-03-13T09:40:00.003+08:00

On my way home last night, I heard sound as if something hit my bike. It's already dark; so, I didn't bother to check what it was. I just continued pedaling until I reached home.

When I made an ocular inspection, I noticed one spoke of my rear wheel is broken.

I search the internet on what causes spoke breakage and how to replace it.

I'm frustrated with my single-speed project

2011-03-12T21:19:00.008+08:00

I was all set and excited for the conversion of my Marin Alpine Trail 29er into a single-speed. I have the budget; and, I already practiced and trained for the single-speed ride.

I went to the bike shop this morning to have the conversion done. But, the mechanic told me that the front crank of my 29er bike could not be dismantled because the plates are riveted and not screwed.

So, I asked him what my options are:

Go on with conversion but my front crank would still have three plates although the biggest and the smallest plates are useless. But, this is not good to look at. And, it would defeat my purpose of shaving off some weight from my bike.
Get a new crank. The available crank at the shop is very expensive.

My other option is to buy another 29er with single speed. But, I need to save first for this option.

Meantime, I'm postponing my single-speed project and think all over again.

Thursday night ride

2011-03-11T22:04:00.003+08:00

On my way home from office last night, I passed by San Mateo, Rizal for a night ride. My other purpose was to simulate an SS (single speed) ride. I fixed my front ring in a mid-ring and the rear at number 5 gear with 17 teeth.

I started the ride along Kambal Road Extension from Aling Tina's up to the crossroad to Shotgun and Timberland. Then, I pedaled up towards Timberland up to Tulizan's place, back, then up again up to after Tulizan's, back, up again before the Columbary, back, then up to Columbary and back again.

I also pedaled back and forth the approach/entrance to Shotgun about 6 times.

And, that's all for the night for a SSimulated SS ride.

Before going home, I refreshed myself with 2 bottles of beer and a plate of sisig, while listening to the band at the nearby bar.

Testing my new tire

2011-02-27T22:17:00.004+08:00

For two days, I rode TweetyPot on roads and trails to test her new rear tire.

Yesterday, after installing the new rear tire, I pedaled all the way to San Mateo, Rizal, climbed Timberland, and rode on Mt. Maarat trails.

This morning, I again pedaled all the way to San Mateo, Rizal via the trails of Pangarap, Caloocan City North and Macabud, Rodriguez then pedaled around Marikina City.

At the Macabud trail:

My lunch of cheeseburger with carrot juice at Mama Chit's in Calumpang, Marikina City:

My new rear tire

2011-02-26T20:40:00.002+08:00

The stock rear tire of my 2010 Marin Alpine Trail 29er is already balding after about six months of use. It's a WTB Prowler 2.1.

And, this morning, I replaced it with another WTB tire - a Wolverine 2.2. It's worth P1,400.

Bike lanes in the Philippines

2011-02-22T06:20:00.000+08:00

It's good news! Sen. Manny Villar filed a bill (no. 2688) promoting the use of bicycles as alternative mode of transportation to fight the worsening traffic conditions, air and noise pollutions, and increasing costs of fuel and fares.

The bill provides the creation of bike lanes or bike ways in main roads and highways as well as bike parkings nationwide.

A Local Bikeways Office would be created to take charge of the implemenation of policies, rules, and regulations pertinent to the Bicycle Act, including the registration of bicycles using the bike ways.

My second century ride

2011-02-19T22:05:00.002+08:00

Together with another golden biker, Arci, I made my second century ride. The route was Novaliches to Tagaytay via Amadeo, Cavite and back to Novaliches. This is my longest ride so far with a total of around 180 kilometers in 16 hours.

Meet-up at Petron Station - Philcoa

Arci and I

Arci's young friends, Nelson and Siegfred, joined us in Rosario, Cavite

Nelson's rear derailleur broke. It's temporarily fixed.

One kilometer more

Finally, we arrived Mahogany Market for our lunch of bulalo and crispy tawilis

My new best time for Timberland climb

2011-02-06T21:58:00.002+08:00

From 21 minutes, it's now 20 minutes and 30 seconds.

I made my new record this morning. I biked out late at 9:00 am and pedaled all the way. I arrived in San Mateo, Rizal an hour later. After a 10-minute rest, I attacked The Wall and broke my record.

Fortunately, the weather was conducive and there were already less bikers going up.

My seventh fall

2011-02-05T21:29:00.003+08:00

I suffered my seventh fall this morning since I've gone clipless more than a month ago.

It happened at the uphill trail from the AFP Housing to Mt. Maarat. I was pedaling and balancing my bike between the ruts. Unfortunately, my front tire fell into a rut at the left side. I lost my balance and fell to the right. I was able to unclip my right foot; but, it was too late. I already hit the ground.

Luckily, I just suffered a mongo size scratch on my right elbow.

It's another lesson learned.

NB. My first sixth falls happened while I was at a stop position.

My new jersey ride

2011-01-30T17:52:00.002+08:00

Today, I donned my new PMTB jersey (the classic black) and pedaled to San Mateo, Rizal.

I get my second PMTB jersey

2011-01-24T05:34:00.000+08:00

After about two months of waiting, I received my second PMTB jersey. It's the classic black PMTB jersey. Here's the design of the jersey:

My gratitude to Sir Dec for coordinating the orders and deliveries.

Climb all you can - Timberland Heights

2011-01-23T20:00:00.000+08:00

I'm setting another record for myself, i.e., climb Timberland Heights as many as I can in one day. The climb must be no dismount. Rest may be done in between climbs - after or before the climb.

My previous record was two climbs. This morning, I attempted to do more than two climbs but made three climbs only.

Next time, I'd try four or more climbs.

It's now 21 minutes

2011-01-22T19:56:00.000+08:00

I broke my record for my Timberland climb this afternoon.

From 21 minutes and 20 seconds, it's now 21 minutes.

I conquer Kennon Road

2011-01-17T20:18:00.001+08:00

It's a dream fulfilled; and, I was exhilirated with this achievement. I planned it once but didn't push through.

Biking buddies from Team Adventureros, who are Baguio veterans, dared me to go up to Baguio pedaling. I jokingly agreed. Then, the invitation came. It was set January 16 to 17.

My original plan was to pedal all the way from Novaliches up to Baguio City and meet the Manila group in Marilao, Bulacan. My plan B was to chase and meet them at Tarlac City and plan C at Rosario, La Union. It's the plan C that materialized.

January 17 at 1:00 am, I drove from Novaliches to Rosario, La Union. I arrived there at around 5:00 am. I was met by AllanFB and Kaniboy. AllanFB is our host from Rosario; while, Kaniboy just arrived from Manila by bus. I learned that the 10 bikers from Manila stayed overnight at Villasis, Pangasinan. Inciong, our Baguio host, pedaled down from Baguio to meet us.

From Rosario, La Union, 16 brave souls started the climb to Baquio City via Kennon Road. The distance from Rosario to Baguio City is about 35 kilometers.

I'm going to Baguio City

2011-01-04T05:10:00.003+08:00

One of my dreams in biking is to climb Baguio City pedaling. Early last year, we'd scheduled a Baguio ride with a biking buddy; but, it didn't push through.

This may become a reality now. Together with some members of Team Adventureros, we set the Baguio ride on January 15 - 16, 2011. From our place in Novaliches, Quezon City, Baguio is 245 kilometers away.

Here's the itinerary:

Day 1 - 210 kilometers
4:30 am - leave Bonifacio Monument
7:00 pm - arrival Rosario, Pangasinan

Day 2 - 35 kilometers of uphills
5:00 am - leave Rosario, Pangasinan
12:00 nn - arrival Baguio City

The group would ride a passenger bus in coming back to Manila in the afternoon.

1.1.11 ride

2011-01-01T19:28:00.001+08:00

Happy New Year again!

This morning, I pedaled from Novaliches and climbed Timberland Heights. Near the gate, I was thinking whether I'd proceed to Maarat trails. I decided not but proceeded towards Rodriguez instead and took the trails of Macabud to Pangarap Village on my way home.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:00:00.001+08:00

Goodbye, 2010; and

WELCOME 2011!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Better by 10 seconds

2010-12-31T19:52:00.001+08:00

For my year-end ride, I went to San Mateo, Rizal and climbed Timberland twice.

And, I broke my best time by 10 seconds. My current best time is 21 minutes and 20 seconds. My second climb was clocked at 21 minutes and 40 seconds.

By the way, I'm already using clipless pedals on my Alpine Trail 29er.

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL BIKERS!

No more fall

2010-12-28T05:47:00.001+08:00

From Dela Paz, Pasig City, I pushed my clipless pedals up to Cabading, Antipolo.

Thence, I climbed Mt. Maarat, passed through the basic trail, and descended via Timberland Heights and The Wall.

And, I didn't suffer a single fall until I get home in Novaliches.

I fall thrice

2010-12-27T05:37:00.003+08:00

It's time to test my clipless pedals in the metropolis, where there are tight situations such as traffic and pedestrians.

My route was Novaliches to San Mateo to Marikina to Novaliches. That's about 36 kilometers.

I suffered three silly falls. The first was at the intersection of Mindanao Ave. and Commonwealth Ave. I already crossed the Commonwealth Ave lane going to Novaliches proper but stopped at the center to allow the vehicles crossing the Mindanao Ave.

The second was the intersection of Delos Santos Ave. and Gen. Luna Ave. in San Mateo. The traffic at Delos Santos Ave. was red.

The third was along J. P. Rizal St. somewhere in Nangka Marikina. The jeep I was following stopped to load passengers.

These falls were identical. When I was about to make a full stop, I disengaged my left foot from the pedal then applied the brakes. With the right foot still clipped, I put some weight to the left then planted my left foot. But, somehow the weight shifted to the right and bang!

Luckily, I just sustained minor scratches and bruises. After the third fall, I now unclip both feet when stopping.

My Christmas Ride 2011

2010-12-26T06:57:00.003+08:00

Last year, my Christmas Ride was from Balanga to Mt. Samat and back to Balanga, Bataan. This year, it's still in Bataan but in Morong.

From a resort in Morong, Bataan, I biked towards Subic Bay.

I had a limited time to bike - about two hours only. So, after about an hour of biking or about 15 kilometers away, I stopped for a rest and rehydration before turning back.

A kilometer more, I'd reach the SBMA Morong gate.

Now, it's time to go back.

Back at the resort and prepared to leave:

Finally, I go clipless

2010-12-25T06:53:00.003+08:00

I was going clipless; but, at some points, I hesitated. With some prods from biking buddies, I finally decided to go on.

I bike commuted from office to home last Wednesday and passed by the local bike shop. I found a pair of clipless pedals and bought it. Its Shimano PD M540 (Malaysian made) with Reflector SM-PD22 attached. It costs P1,800 only.

I also bought a pair of shoes. The brand is X-ion from Germany. The cost is P2,500.

After paying the stuff, there's no turning back.

Yesterday, we went to Morong, Bataan to celebrate the Christmas there. I brought TweetyPot, where I installed the new clipless pedals. If there's opportunity, I'd try using the new pedals and practice cleating and uncleating. There was . . .

At the beach resort, I started the training.

First, at the parking area. I was doing fine. When I tried sudden braking, I disengaged my left foot. But, the bike leaned to the right and fell with me. Ouch! As a result, I got some scratches and my saddle got damaged.

I moved to the grassy playground of the resort.

Practice, practice, practice . . . Then, I tried uncleating the right foot and braked but the bike leaned to left and fell with me again. Same error. Fortunately, no damage done.

After building some confidence, I pedaled out of the resort - on the highway and fireroads.

At the highway, I was about to negotiate a U-turn, a motorcycle suddenly appeared close on my left. I panicked and braked. I was expecting a fall but fortunately my left foot disengaged and I stopped standing. Whew! That was close.

I pedaled back to the resort and practiced some more on the playground.

TweetyPot and the sunset

My savings for bike commuting

2010-12-23T12:29:00.001+08:00

I'd like to bike commute from home to work and vice versa everyday. However, there are no bath or shower areas at or near our office. So, I just bike commute home once a week from office to home on my number coding days - Wednesdays. I leave my car overnight at our basement parking and commute via public utility vehicles in going to the office the following morning.

Last night, I again bike commuted from office to home. Then, this morning I took the public transportation in going to the office.

And, my savings:

Cost of diesel is P35 / liter
Distance from office to home is about 30 kilometers
Diesel consumption of my car is 10 liters per kilometers
Public transpo fare - home to office is P69

Therefore:

P35 x 30 kilometers / 10 liters= P105 x 2 = P210 - 69 = P141

I'm not ready yet for the clipless pedals

2010-12-19T04:50:00.001+08:00

Since I started biking last year, I've been using platform pedals. Reading from the biking fora and listening to the clipless bikers stories, I've thought of going clipless too. With prods from bike buddies, who are clipless users, I finally decided to go clipless.

According to About.Com:

Clipless pedals are bicycle pedals that have a special mechanism that attaches you foot to the pedal using a special cleat mounted to the bottom of your shoe. This type of pedal creates a very efficient connection between you and your bike.

Clipless pedals are about the most efficient way to attach your foot to the pedal. The rider steps into the mechanism and can then apply pedaling forces in the upward,downward, forward and rearward directions. To release from the pedal, the rider simply needs to twist their foot.

The term clipless is a bit confusing, since many would describe the mechanism in a clipless pedal as a clip. However, they are known as clipless because they are an alternative to the original toeclip pedals that use straps and a toe cage to hold your foot to the pedal.

Actually, I've started shopping already and found a pair of dual purpose pedals - the one side has platform and and the other side clipless. It's worth about P2,500. A pair of shoes is worth about P2,500 too.

But, with my two recent minor crashes - the first on the road and the second on the trail, I hesitated on pursuing my plan.

I think I've to rebuild my confidence again before converting my platform pedals into clipless.

My second time at Camp Aguinaldo bike trails

2010-12-18T20:42:00.002+08:00

I again experienced Camp Aguinaldo Bike Adventure (CABA) Zone for the second time. The first time was 8 months ago.

I drove my daughter this morning to J5 for their Christmas Party. It's about 9:30 AM. I passed CABA Zone and checked if I could use the trails. The operating hours are 6 am to 10 am but could be extended up to 11 am. So, I tried the trails again and completed 3 rounds, which took me about an hour, including rests, to finish

Bike commute from work to home

2010-12-17T06:43:00.002+08:00

I wasn't able to bike commute from work to home last Wednesday as I attended the PMTB Christmas Party. So, I did it yesterday.

This is the route I'd taken. Makati Avenue > Paseo de Roxas > Buendia Avenue > Kalayaan Avenue > C5 > FVR Road > Riverbanks > J. Rizal Avenue > Batasan Road > Commonwealth Avenue > Regalado Avenue > Quirino Highway > Zabarte Avenue. The distance is about 36 kilometers.

&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/26195824"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Makati-Batasan-Nova&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/?location=Makati-batasan-nova, Philippines"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Cycling Routes / Bike Rides in Makati-batasan-nova, Philippines&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;

I attend the PMTB Christmas Party

2010-12-16T06:18:00.003+08:00

It's my number coding day, so I left the office in Makati at around 6:30 PM and arrived at the venue at past 7:00 pm. The party hadn't started yet; and, It's still registration time.

I bought two raffle tickets hoping to win one or two of the prizes. A helmet or even a frame would do.

The recycled tickets from last year.

I again met Hiyugo, Diyego, and Tanggero. We first met at the PMTB party last year and we shared a table. Now, we're sharing again a table.

The Team Adventureros - Jester, Jepsky, Skwid, Jugleong, and CaloyPalaboy

The party was a success. I enjoyed it despite I wasn't lucky enough to bring home a prize. I left at past midnight.

PMTB Christmas Party 2010

2010-12-13T05:40:00.003+08:00

The party starts at 6:00 pm.

There are lots of prizes to be raffled away. To be able to join in the raffle, an attendee must buy a raffle ticket for P100. The proceeds shall be for the benefit of Redeemer's Home - an orphanage in Antipolo City.

At the PMTB Christmas party last year, I won a shirt, a pair of socks, and Weekend Warrior magazines.

Advance Merry Christmas to all!

Breaking my Shotgun record

2010-12-12T08:37:00.004+08:00

I climbed Shotgun yesterday. From my previous best record of 47 minutes and 20 seconds, I did the climb in 42 minutes and 30 seconds or 5 minutes faster.

I was exhilarated with my progress. The good weather contributed a lot. I started the climb at about 8:00 am.

But, problems are already looming in the Shotgun route. As I was pedaling up, I noticed there were more garbage trucks coming up and down. As I neared the top, more flies were riding with me.

My previous records:

11/16/10 - 47:20
11/6/10 - 47:30

After my Shotgun climb, I also tried breaking my Timberland record but was unsuccessful.

CPB - PMTB Adopt a Family Project

2010-12-08T21:53:00.002+08:00

CPB is a group of bikers in PMTB. CPB means Certified Poser Bikers. The group does not ride for fun only but for cause as well. One of its projects is the "Adopt a Family".

Last Sunday, the group rode to Puray, Rodriguez, Rizal and visited its adopted family - the Doroteo family.

The group met up at Chow King, San Mateo, Rizal

In one of the pitstops

The group with the Doroteo family

Ely Santos handing money to Doroteo family to be used for business and/or house repair.

Nice job, CPB; and keep up the good works. God bless you!

Note: Pictures grabbed from CPB - PMTB Adopt a Family Project thread.

I again break my Timberland record

2010-12-07T05:56:00.002+08:00

In between my rides last Sunday, I passed by and climbed Timberland Heights. I again broke my record. It's now 21 minutes and 30 seconds or 1 minute better.

My previous records:

22:30 - November 29
26:30 - November 28
24:30 - November 6
24:00 - October 31

My new saddle

2010-12-06T05:32:00.002+08:00

I bought a saddle from a street vendor along the road going to Timberland Height. The brand is Vader and cost P300.00 only, which I haggled from P400.00

It has a red color; so, and I thought of installing it in my red bike. However, I decided to use it in my orange bike.

40 laps at Neopolitan Business Park

2010-12-04T20:51:00.002+08:00

I was supposed to join the Reverse Sierra Madre Loop ride today. But, I had a lunch appointment in Makati City, which made my biking time limited. I need to be home before 9:30 am.

Hence, I just decided to bike nearby - at Neopolitan Business Park. And, I did 40 laps. A lap is about 1.1 kilometers. Thus, 40 laps is equivalent to 44 kilometers. To add the distance from home to the park, my total distance was 48 kilometers. Not bad!

TweetyPot after the ride

Google Maps for my Blackberry phone

2010-12-03T21:10:00.000+08:00

I just downloaded Google Maps into my Blackberry Bold 9700, which I could use to get directions especially when biking.

My phone has maps but the street map coverage for the Philippines is limited to Metro Manila only and the features are limited compared to Google Maps.

I'm still learning how to use it. Meantime, I have to check with my network provider its charges for using the Google Maps.

Breaking my Timberland record

2010-11-29T20:41:00.002+08:00

From my Antipolo ride last November 8, I passed by Timberland heights before going home and tried to beat my record. My time was 26 minutes and 30 seconds or 2 minutes and 30 seconds longer than my best time of 24 minutes. Perhaps, I was just tired to break or just match the record.

But, this morning, I went back to Timberland and broke my record. It's now 22 minutes and 30 seconds or 2 minutes and 30 seconds better.

My previous records:

26:30 - November 28
24:30 - November 6
24:00 - October 31

My ride to Antipolo City via Ortigas Avenue

2010-11-29T05:49:00.000+08:00

I've climbed Antipolo City via Sumulong Highway several times and via Teresa once. Yesterday, I did it via Ortigas Avenue.

At the boundary of Cainta and Antipolo

Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage Church

Tired feet (the tire and my feet)

My lunch of crispy fried catfish

Biking in Cebu

2010-11-24T05:33:00.000+08:00

From Nov. 20 to 23, my family was in Bohol and Cebu for a 4-day vacation.

I was thinking of bringing my bike but decided against it.

Saturday afternoon, we arrived Panglao, Bohol. After eating our lunch, I walked around and tried to look for a bike to rent. I found one and the owner's willing to lend it but with a warning - the brakes weren't workings. He he . . . There's no bike to rent, I just walked for two hours.

The following day, we toured Bohol.

On our third day, we were in Cebu City. Luckily, the hotel, where we stayed in, has a bike that I used for free (a stationary bike):

I think it's more fun biking up around here:

My Blackberry Bold 9700

2010-11-09T05:22:00.005+08:00

Last August 8, I got my new mobile phone – a Blackberry Bold 9700, which replaced my Nokia Communicator E90.

My GE digital camera has already retired; and, I’ve been using my Blackberry phone camera in capturing images during my rides. The phone camera has 3.2 megapixels.

Shotgun in 47 minutes; Timberland 24 minutes

2010-11-07T07:22:00.003+08:00

Last Sunday, I climbed Timberland Heights via the Wall with my TweetyPot (Marin Alpine Trail - a 29er) and recorded my time at 24 minutes.

Yesterday morning, riding my AlitePot (KHS Alite 150 - a 26er), I went to San Mateo, Rizal to record the time of my no dismount climb to Shotgun.

From Novaliches, I pedaled all the way to the bike parking along C6 in front of the entrance to Shotgun Avenue.

After resting for a few minutes, I started my slow ascent to Shotgun. From the bike parking, it's about 4.2 up to the trailhead to Mt. Maarat. I reached the trailhead in 47 minutes and 30 seconds with no dismount.

After a few minutes of rest, I went back to my starting point.

Thereat, I contemplated whether to climb Timberland. I decided to. From the same starting point, the gate of Timberland Heights is about 2.2 kilometers. I slowly pedaled and reached the gate in 24 minutes and 30 seconds. It's 30 seconds longer than my climb last Sunday.

A few months back, I learned the art of climbing uphills from an older biker with no or minimal dismounts. When I first applied the trick at Shotgun, it's really effective. It's the first time I climbed Shotgun with no dismount. Thence, I've been climbing Shotgun and Timberland with no dismounts.

The trick is - pedal slowly or very slowly even to the point that your wheels would stop rolling upward. Thence, start building your power, strength, stamina to increase your climb speed.

Before, my best record for climbing Shotgun was with 2 dismounts / rests.

Now, I started recording my climb times to monitor my progress.

A no sweat ride

2010-11-05T05:45:00.000+08:00

Last night, I pedaled within our village using TweetyPot.

I covered a distance of about 8 kilometers in about 30 minutes. Nonetheless, not a drop of sweat came out from my body because of the cold air.

When I went inside our home, wifey didn't believe that I'd gone out biking.

Wheel reflectors

2010-11-03T18:02:00.003+08:00

After more than a year, my AlitePot’s wheel reflectors had already fallen apart. For quite a time, I hadn’t able to replace them.

Since I do ride at night and for safety reason, I bought a new set and installed them. A set costs P40.00 only.

My Timberland via The Wall climb record

2010-11-01T07:33:00.003+08:00

I've been climbing Timberland Heights via The Wall non-stop. So, I thought of recording my best time. Last Saturday and Sunday, I climbed the Wall again using TweetyPot. And, my best time is 24 minutes, which I did last Sunday. I'd try to break this record on my next climb.

Starting point (A)is at the bike parking at C6 at the intersection of Shotgun Avenue and finishes at the Timberland gate (B). This is about 2.2 kilometers. Therefore, my speed was 5.5 km/h.

I'll also record my best time for my Shotgun climbs, which is about 4.2 kilometers from the same starting point up to the trailhead to Mt. Maarat.

Araw ng Siklista sa 17 Cities ng Metro Manila

2010-10-28T04:51:00.002+08:00

I got this from PMTB, which was posted by Justie

The 17 Cities Bike Tour aka "Araw ng Siklista" is a bike caravan passing each of the 17 cities comprising Metro Manila.

The historic fun ride seeks to mobilize all bike clubs and enthusiasts from each of the 17 cities, to ride as one in pushing for bike-safe & bike-healthy Metropolis.

The caravan will make a brief stop in each of the municipalities to present bikers' petition to the city mayors, and to President Aquino II at the end of the ride in Quezon Memorial Circle. Environmental advocates and other Non-motorized transport stakeholders will join the Cyclists at QMC when the petition is presented to the President.

As a prelude to Nov.7 "Araw ng Siklista", a BIKERS' Forum/Workshop will be held on October 23 (time and venue to be announced later). Ideas and demands drawn during the forum will form the petition to be submitted on Nov. 7. The petition will be circulated in all localities to draw-in signatories who believe and support the clamor for clean air & bike-safe Metro Manila.

Events Schedule:
Registration Period: Oct - Nov 6, 2010

Registration is FREE!

*Registration forms can be requested and submitted at cyclingadvocates@yahoo.com
For non-internet users, forms will be made available at your favorite bike shops and biker tambayans.

Submit or mail accomplished forms to :Cycad Office - #43 Malingap st. Teachers Village, Quezon City

For Queries you may call:Tel Nos. 926-6544 (ask for Kim)Or Txt: 0999-731-2935 - Roi; 0939-375-0575 - Monchie

Nov. 7 Sunday Event Schedule
5:30 am Assembly at Quezon Memorial Cirle (Fronting QC hall)
* QC bikers and clubs will start off at QMC.
* Local bikeclubs will merge with the caravan when the starting contingent reaches their city hall.
The partner bike club will then take their turn in leading the group till the next city and so on.

6:00 am Ride Start
5:30 pm ETA at QMR
Snack stops at 10 am & lunch at 12:00nn and ample water stations with partner LGUs.

Approx. Total Distance: 130.5 kms.
Ride Pace: 15-20 kph
Route: You can download the route at Cycling Advocates Facebook account or email us at Cyclingadvocates@yahoo.com for a copy.

What you need to have:
Helmet, Bike Blinkers, Bike Horn / Bell (optional), water bottle and snacks.
The yearning to see bike-safe & bike healthy streets a reality.
An open & friendly disposition to act in solidarity for the bikers' cause.

Skill Level: Basic (ability to keep 15-20 kph pace).

Event Attire:
All bike clubs will wear their respective club jerseys. All individual bikers can wear their favorite bike get-up and gimmick.

Preparations:
Have your bike tuned up a week before the event.Get enough sleep the day before and be early at the assembly area (QMC or your city hall).
Present your registration stub so you can be issued an event sticker and banner for the ride.

*All participants get a commemorative certificate of participation at the end of the ride.

Sama-sama para sa karapatan ng siklista sa malinis na hangin at ligtas na padyak sa
lansangan!

Let's support this event for a bike-safe and bike-safety community.

A 30-minute night ride inside our village

2010-10-27T22:59:00.005+08:00

I got home earlier at about 8:00 pm.

After eating my dinner, I put out my laptop and surfed the net. Of course, I logged in first at mountain biking fora and visited other mountain biking websites.

Suddenly, I felt the urge of pedaling. So, I got out, got my bike (TweetyPot), and biked within our village for 30 minutes. I still wanted to pedal more but decided against it.

My first century ride and first 5,000 kilometers

2010-10-26T12:01:00.002+08:00

I've set a new record - doing a century ride. A century ride is 100 miles or 160.9 kilometers.

It was my ride from Novaliches to Silang, Cavite and back to Novaliches with a total of 104. 4 miles or 168 kilometers. I've done it in 10 hours and 30 minutes. With this ride, I also surpassed my first 5,000 kilometers.

My other long distance rides of 100 kilometers and more were:

Candelaria, Zambales to Burgos, Pangasinan and back to Candelaria - 100 kilometers on April 2, 2010
Novaliches to Balanga City - 110 kilometers on April 9, 2010
Novaliches to Sierra Madre loop and back to Novaliches - 131 kilometers on September 25, 2010.

Except for the Sierra Madre ride, these rides were done solo.

On my next long distance ride, I'd be attempting the Laguna loop with more than 190 kilometers. Better to start my training.

A ride for my very precious honey

2010-10-25T19:50:00.004+08:00

About month ago, I found out about Ilog Maria, which sells pure honey. From Tagaytay City, we stopped over at Ilog Maria and bought honey. Due to limited supply, we were given 2 containers only of about 125 ml. per container.

My stocks ran out. So, yesterday, I pedaled all the way to Ilog Maria in Silang, Cavite to replenish my stocks.

I left home at 8:30 am.

At UP Diliman to breathe fresher air.

At the Philippine Marines Camp in Fort Bonifacio.

I was already hungry and had my lunch of fried bangus and adobong sitaw somewhere in Talaba, Bacoor, Cavite.

Rest at Dasmarinas, Cavite.

Another rest at Dasmarinas, Cavite. At this point, I was thinking of backing out. After some thought, I decided to go on.
Finally, I reached Ilog Maria. It's about some 84 kilometers from our place in Novaliches.

And, this is my very precious honey. Due to limited supply, Ilog Maria sells one container only of about 125 ml per customer. I was expecting I could buy two containers

Am I riding a lemon?

2010-10-19T20:34:00.004+08:00

My TweetyPot, a built 2010 Marin Alpine Trail 29er, is almost 3 months old only. But, I’m already experiencing problems with her.

I’m just wondering if the parts installed are weak or not compatible. Thus, making my bike a lemon.

First, I noticed the slipping handle bar grips. I had it fixed at Sabak Bike Shop, where I bought it. The mechanic just applied rugby. But, after a month, they’re slipping again

Second, it’s the problem with the chain. I had it fixed by the Sabak mechanic. But, the problem recurred. I try to have it fixed by other mechanics. Again, the problem keeps on recurring.

Third, the saddle was disengaged from its rails due to minor "semplang".

Fourth, when I rode it last Sunday, I heard noises from the front wheel. The culprit was the worn out hub bearings. I had fixed in one of the LBS along the way. So far, it's okay.

Fifth, when the mechanic carried the bike, the rear wheel fell off from the frame. It was re-attached and the bolt tightened.

I have another bike – a built 2009 KHS Alite 150, which is more than a year old. But, I’ve never encountered yet the above problems.

Ride with Team Adventureros

2010-10-17T05:33:00.001+08:00

I joined the Team Adventureros ride yesterday (October 16). It was spearheaded by JesterEdquilag.

The route was supposedly Marikina to Cabading, Antipolo to Mt. Maarat to Timberland, San Mateo. But, at Cabading the group agreed to deviate - from Cabading, we passed by Boso-boso and Binayoyo before proceeding to Mt. Maarat. It made the ride longer by about 6 kilometers. The new route has some stretch of trails.

From our place in Novaliches, I pedaled all the way to the meeting place in McDo - Sumulong Highway; then pedaled all the way back home.

The bikers: JesterEdquilag, Jepoy, Kakaiba, EpoyRufinoJr, CaloyPalaboy, Kaniboy, FlyPhotoGuy, MikeOk, and me.

Pictures of the ride on the trails from Boso-boso to Binayoyo:

At the Timberland Heights

Unfortunately, on my way out from Maarat basic trails to Timberland Height, I lost control of my bike and crashed. Thanks to the good Samaritans who helped me back on my feet.

One Wednesday afternoon ride to San Mateo

2010-10-14T21:01:00.000+08:00

I was on leave yesterday (Wednesday) for some personal important matter. In the afternoon, I found time to bike and went to one of my favorite biking places - San Mateo, Rizal.

I left at around 2:00 pm and pedaled to San Mateo.

My first PMTB jersey

2010-10-11T05:28:00.000+08:00

I already got my PMTB jersey last Sunday through the courtesy and efforts of Denz226. Thank you Papa Denz.

Saddle puzzle

2010-10-03T21:27:00.000+08:00

Last September 18, I was on my way to Timberland Heights when I had a minor fall. As a result, the saddle was disengaged from its rails. I tried to replace it; but, I couldn't despite several attempts. So, what I did was I went to a biking friend who lives nearby and ask for his assistance. Fortunately, he has a spare saddle, which he lent to me.

At home, I tried to analyze the situation. The saddle was disengaged without deforming the saddle nor bending the rails. Therefore, it could be replaced.

However, my first try was a failure and so my subsequent attempts. I tried all tricks but to no avail. I brought the saddle to a local bike shop; but, the mechanic there couldn't repair it too.

I followed the advices of my online biking friends - to do the bending technique. This did the trick.

Sierra Madre loop

2010-09-26T07:13:00.000+08:00

Last September 25, I accompanied a fellow PMTBiker, JesterEdquilag, to the Sierra Madre loop.

We rendezvoused at McDo – Sumulong Highway in Marikina City. After eating our breakfast, we started pedaling towards Antipolo City. At our first pit stop, we had our second breakfast.

Ginataang labong for me

Goto for him

And, after a few minutes of rest, we proceeded to our journey:

Our lunch:

Tapang usa

Adobong kambing

Bulalo

From our place to our place in Novaliches, the Sierra Madre is about 131 kilometers. This is the longest route that I'd pedaled.

Revisiting Wawa Dam

2010-09-05T21:35:00.000+08:00

Today, I pedaled all the way to Wawa Dam in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Climbing Timberland then Shotgun

2010-09-03T22:18:00.000+08:00

It's Friday; and, I didn't report for work to attend to some personal matters.

In the afternoon, I biked all the way to San Mateo, Rizal using AlitePot and climbed Timberland Heights then Shotgun without dismount.

At the Timberland Heights

At the Shotgun

Reversing Nova - Pangarap – Macabud – Litex loop

2010-08-23T05:22:00.000+08:00

I’ve done the Nova – Pangarap – Macabud – Litex loop several times. And, I experienced reversing it yesterday. The reverse ride was organized by YummyNia. And, together with StrykerMD and Jeff, we did the reverse loop.

We rendezvoused at Puregold Fairview. At past 7:00 am, we started our trek. The loop is a combination of roads, uphill, and trails and is about 40 kilometers. We finished by noon.

StrykerMD, Jeff & YummyNia

My new biking apparels

2010-08-22T05:20:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, I bought biking apparels:

An orange jersey with collar to match with the color of my bike.

A black jogging pants

An orange / black striped arm warmers

I'm now a member of PhilMoFo

2010-08-18T07:42:00.002+08:00

Finally, after several attempts, I was able to register at the Philippine Mountainbiking Forum or PhilMoFo last August 6.
I already made my first thread / post introducing myself.

Thank you for the welcome, guys!

I again commute from work to home

2010-08-11T21:21:00.002+08:00

For the second time, I came home from work using my bike (AlitePot).

It's my coding day (Wednesday); hence, I couldn't leave by car until 7:00 PM. Hence, I decided to bring my bike and use it in coming home. At 5:00 pm, I prepared and left 20 minutes after.

At the basement 3 parking of our building

The distance from my work to home is about 32 kilometers. After two hours of pedaling, I arrived home.

At our home garage

Duet ride to Timberland Heights via Shotgun

2010-08-08T20:47:00.005+08:00

Today, I had another duet ride to Timberland Heights. This time, it’s with YummyNia and via Shotgun.

We met at the Neopolitan Business Park at the back of SM Fairview. We waited for sometime hoping other bikers might join us. After 15 minutes, we pedaled all the way to Aling Tina's Eatery. After taking our breakfast of "papaitang kambing", we climbed Shotgun to Maarat trails and pedaled down via Timberland.

After we parted ways, I decided to return and climbed Timberland Heights.

At the Maarat trails, I first experienced the problem with my chain - the lower portion of the chain stuck to the sprocket while pedaling.

Duet ride to Timberland Heights via AFP

2010-08-07T20:01:00.001+08:00

This morning, I pedaled all the way from Novaliches and met Kinetic at Puregold San Mateo

Nobody else showed up; and, we started pedaling

Side trip to Our Lady of Mediatrix Grotto

At the Armed Forces of the Philipines (AFP) Housing

Unfortunately, after taking this picture, my camera conked.

SuperCat Ferry gives discount to bikers

2010-08-04T12:27:00.000+08:00

From Rizal Park to Biak na Bato National Park.

2010-08-02T18:20:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday (July 31) early morning, a group of bikers started pedaling from Km. 0 in Rizal Park

Some bikers joined them in UP Diliman

Another group in Caltex Station in Regalado Avenue, Novaliches

The Bulacan bikers in Angat Church

And in Akle, San Ildefonso, Bulacan, the bikers of Biak na Bato Cycling Club were patiently waiting

The destination - Biak na Bato National Park in San Miguel, Bulacan

The maiden ride

2010-08-01T20:50:00.004+08:00

I joined the ride to Biak-na-Bato, San Miguel, Bulacan. It was an overnight affair (July 31 to August 1).

This was TweetyPot's maiden and break-in ride. She traveled and survived a total distance of 140 kilometers on both paved roads and trails.

Welcome, TWEETYPOT

2010-07-30T20:50:00.001+08:00

I have a new bike - a 2010 Marin Alpine Trail 29er colored Bomb Orange.

I'm naming her TweetyPot.

29er bikes have bigger wheels than the standard 26er.

Welcome, TweetyPot!

Goodbye, BIKEPOT

2010-07-26T07:16:00.000+08:00

BikePot is actually the name of my first bike. When I registered in PMTB, I used his name as my handle.
I acquired him in June 2009 to try if biking was for me. It’s a cheap bike worth P2,600 only. When I got addicted into biking two months later, I bought a better one. Now, I’m planning of buying a 29er.

I still wanted to keep BikePot as I still use him from time to time biking inside our village and nearby places. But the problem is the storage / parking. We have a small garage, which could fit one car and no more than two bikesSo, I have no other choice but to dispose of him.

After office hours today, I’m going to deliver BikePot to his new owner. I sold him at P1,500 only.

GOODBYE, BIKEPOT! I’ll surely miss you. Hu hu hu . . .

Gun the Shotgun

2010-07-25T20:07:00.001+08:00

I climbed Timberland yesterday with Mikko Elfa and Kinetics from our Macabud trailing. This morning, I climbed Shotgun alone.

I left home at around 7:00 am and pedaled all the way to San Mateo, Rizal. I started gunning the Shotgun an hour after.

Ride from Tungko to Macabud to Timberland

2010-07-24T20:46:00.001+08:00

It was supposed to be a duet ride – Mikko Elfa, a fellow PMTBiker, and me only. He requested me to accompany him to Timberland. A day before the ride, we invited PMTB bikers who wanted to join us.

PMTBiker JesterEdquilag, who was planning to have his own “Bahala na Ride”, decided to join us together with CaloyPalaboy, and Riemann821. San Mateo PMTB bikers, Kinetic and Skwid, also joined us.

At the trail, two Bulakenyo bikers caught us up, Christian and Marco, who rode with us and led us to a more exciting path up to San Isidro, SJDM.

Meet-up at Tungkong Mangga, SJDM

Only Mikko Elfa, Kinetic and I climbed the Timberland.

Shopping for a bike and working while biking

2010-07-20T21:55:00.002+08:00

I'm on leave today. And, I decided to bike, shop for a bike, and do a midday climb to the Wall. I was shopping for a 29er – possibly a Marin Alpine Trail.

I started pedaling at about 9:00 am towards Ortigas Center, Pasig City.

Pitstop at UP Diliman

I passed by Knobbies along White Plains St. It has the Marin Alpine Trail but no 19” frame size.

I resumed pedaling to Bikezilla in Ortigas Center. It has the 19”. Okay and fine. I’d return in a couple of days and buy it.

Thence, I proceeded towards San Mateo, Rizal to conquer Timberland on a midday.

Marikina River crossing

On the way, however, I sensed my phone was ringing. I didn’t mind it. I stopped for lunch (somewhere in Concepcion, Marikina) and checked my phone. Oh my gosh! It’s the office calling. I was going to eat first! While eating, it kept on ringing. I ignored it until I finished my lunch.

Then I called up the office. There’s a problem that needed my assistance. What a timing? I was on leave and biking and, now, I was working.

I made several calls then pedaled away. While pedaling, my phone rang from time to time. So, I had to stop and made calls. Before approaching Puregold San Mateo, I decided to cancel my midday climb to Timberland and go home instead. Istorbo talaga ang trabaho sa pag-bike. He he he . . .

These were two of my instant offices along the way, where I worked:

A hut somewhere in Marikina City

Total Gas Station - North Fairview. Working while re-hydrating.

I arrived home at past 2:00 pm.

My Novaliches - Ortigas - Novaliches route with a total distance of 56 kilometers.

Another solo tour of Bulacan

2010-07-18T22:53:00.002+08:00

I wasn’t able to join neither the CMR Wet Ride nor the Bulakenyos DRT Ride. I just executed my another solo ride – Touring Bulacan. I’d be exploring the San Jose – Norzagaray Road, the Norzagaray – Sta. Maria Road, and the Sta. Maria – Pandi Road.

I left home just before 8:00 am and headed towards SJDM. I wasn’t able to follow my planned route. I missed the right turn to San Jose – Norzagaray Road and right turned at the junction of San Jose – Marilao Road. I also missed the junction to Pandi. Also, I diverted my ride to Marilao and Meycauyan on my way home. Here’s my actual route, which is about 91 kilometers.

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto – SJDM

Rice terraces along San Jose – Norzagaray Road

Sta. Maria By-Pass Road

My lunch of adobong igat (eel)

Rehydrating

At Bahay Kubo (Nipa Hut)

San Jose – Marilao Road

SM Marilao – along McArtur Highway

Just passed the Meycauayan – North Caloocan boundary.

Pasig to Maarat / Timberland via Cabading

2010-07-17T21:59:00.005+08:00

I had my car repaired at Kia Pasig this morning. Instead of waiting for it to be finished at the Customers Lounge, I brought my bike and pedaled to Timberland Heights in San Mateo.

Two PMTBikers, Kinetic and Soltero, showed up at the service center and rode with me. We left at about 8:00 am.

Another PMTBiker, Slipoldey, arrived 15 minutes after we left and chased and caught us up at Cabading - Marcos Highway junction.

Slipoldey, Soltero, & Kinetic

Slipoldey, Soltero, & me

Our route: Kia Pasig – Marcos Highway – Cabading, Antipolo – Pestano – Maarat – Timberland.

Slipoldey

Soltero

Kinetic

Breakfast at Pestano Farms

My order of Longanisa Hamonado with eggs

At Timberland

My new biking gloves

2010-07-13T20:27:00.000+08:00

I just bought a pair of biking gloves. It's a Fox Dirtpaw worth P1,000.00.

I join the Manila group in conquering the Wall

2010-07-11T20:58:00.001+08:00

This morning, the Manila bikers met and started pedaling at the Kilometer Zero (Rizal Monument in Rizal Park). I and other bikers joined them at the UP Diliman Oval. Thence, the fortified group proceeded to San Mateo, Rizal to conquer the Wall and beyond.

Note: The Wall is the infamous name dubbed to the ascending part of the C-6 road leading to Timberland Heights in Mount Maarat from San Mateo, Rizal

Meeting of bikers at UP Diliman

Rest at Aling Tina’s Eatery before the climb

One of the rest places on the way up

Timberland, conquered finally

At the Mt. Maarat trailhead ready to conquer what lies beyond Timberland

At the Pestano Farm Breakfast Club – everybody's tired and hungry.

My lunch of corned beef and eggs

Back to Timberland and on the way home