Good weekend of riding and racing cross bikes, talking bikes, and drinking coffee. Saturday I picked up Michael at the train station and we headed across Germany to meet Ken for some riding near Hochspeyer. They have much more decidious trees than we have and most had a lot of their leaves. Very scenic with great colors.
After an Alt bier, pizza, and a coffee, Michael and I headed south to Karlsruhe for Sunday’s race. Woke up to sunshine and warmer temps and with our early 11:30 start, only arm warmers were needed. Lined up with Ken on the second row, had huge issues clipping in and out with my clown commuter shoes as my Sidi’s are in the cobbler’s shop for repair. Coming up to the first barrier, I failed to unclip and slid up and into the barrier. Epic. I managed to hop back up before I caused to much carnage behind me, but never saw Ken again. I battled in or around the top 10 for the remainder on a very diverse course with 2 barriers, 1 sand pit, 1 slick and steep climb, and numerous off-camber sections. Great course.


The barrier I didn’t attempt to knock down.

Michael making it look easy.

Marty showing the sand who’s boss.

Ken finished in 2nd.




















































