Trail Conditions in Detail - Theodore Wirth

[Trevize1138]

Just updated the trail conditions page. Ding, Enchanted Forest and Skyline are all pretty beat up from yesterday. Please stay off those until they dry out.

The rest of the trail didn't see nearly as much action during the grand opening, and it's mostly tacky with several greasy spots. Unfortunately, nearly all the corners are greasy. So, if you resign yourself to no faster than 5 mph this morning it's rideable.

If we get no rain at all today it should be in fine shape this afternoon.

[ryno lite]

Went out about 2:30 pm and the trail was in mostly good condition. I'd say 75% tacky, 20% dry and 5% wet. The first loop used for the opening seemed to be the only really bad spot. Too bad it started to pour just as we hit the asphalt path back to my truck. Glad we got our ride in just before the rain! It's supposed to be warm and drier tommorrow, so it might be ready by late afternoon, hopefully. It was damp enough that the downpour from today probably soaked it for awhile.

[Wheels]

Perfect conditions in my book - just tacky enough to get some traction. It's only wet in couple of crossings, a bit soft in White Pine.

Go ride.

[robc]

Any one know how much the storm band dropped on Theo this morning? Radar looks promising for the rest of the day, think Theo will be ridable by 4ish?

Thanks
Rob

[Trevize1138]

Any one know how much the storm band dropped on Theo this morning? Radar looks promising for the rest of the day, think Theo will be ridable by 4ish?

Thanks
Rob

My guess would be Theo should be just fine by 4 if we do, indeed, get no more rain. It didn't rain that bad this morning and that trail sheds water like you wouldn't believe! :)

[jitterjepp]

I'm by lake of the isle and there was barely enough rain to get the ground wet. The streets are already dry. It's a rain day today so I'm going to head out and see what it's like.

[jitterjepp]

Wirth is slick and wet as of 12:30. I walked off the trail and come home. Now I'm going to go help Josh finish that keg off once and for all before it goes bad and he gets sick.

[oldgrowth]

I tried Wirth around 2:00 pm. It was very wet around Dingo, Enchanted Forest, etc. I would not attempt this section for several days. I did about half of the main loop as well before walking out. Most of what I saw on the bike trail ranged from slightly to very greasy, though there was no standing water. The exposed parts were drier and ok to ride at low speed. My feeling would be to stay off the trail today. It did not seem to have dried out much after this morning, maybe due to the humidity.

[stoneage]

Took the Bianchi road bike in after a loop around the cities. 8:30 PM and everything looked pretty good to me. Saw some people with lights on the parkway heading over to the trail. Rode everything from the entrance at 55 to the middle of Zip (2/3's?) and then left on the walking trail (which was still mushy). It's supposed to pour tonight, though.

[iyoung]

I rode the trail at 6:15 this evening and it was tacky but not greasy. Seemed to be in pretty good condition at that time.

[stoneage]

Rain, rain, go away!!! Rained like hell last night around the Wirth area. Should be open to canoes this morning. Thankful that the trail was built properly. Seems to drain better than other trails in the metro.

[jitterjepp]

Yeah, this really stinks. Rains like hell at night and in the early morning just enough so we have to call it a rainday and stay home. Then it starts getting nice out; perfect weather for a ride but the trails are all wet.

[iyoung]

Anyone have a chance to inspect the trails today?
I suspect it's still too wet, but if someone knows otherwise I'd love to hear it!

[fatbaldpop1]

I rode over the lunch hour...guilt free. There a couple of slick spots, but no guilt...

[iyoung]

Guilt free at 2:30?
Hmm, I guess I better leave work now so I can verify your findings....

[stoneage]

Did 4 laps starting at 3:30. Great shape. A lot of noobs out, sliding their rears, but not going fast enough to do much damage. Did third lap backwards and counted fifteen riders at about 4:30.
Timed the second lap. Went about 80-85%, 55 to 55 and clocked a 22:03. I'm guessing a two lap time trial winner at Wirth would turn a 38 minute time. Pretty close to the Leb TT, isn't it?

[noise_is_life]

Post it to the trail conditions page...

[Whatsmymantra?]

Did 6 laps the other day before the rain. 16 min lap times for the section north of the tracks. The names for the sections are gay. The newbies are out there in force riding/skidding their way around, going the wrong way and not wearing helmets. The challenge in wirth is now how many laps can you do and how fast can you go. I saw another broken tree. Who is the wanker that can't ride around the trees? If you need to ride on wide trails go ride the bike paths and if I see you breaking a tree...... Last I'm going to get rid of the suspension bike with gears because all you need is a SS. Like I said this is a rant flame away

[stoneage]

The challenge in wirth is now how many laps can you do and how fast can you go.
Always was.
get rid of the suspension bike with gears because all you need is a SS.
Very true.

[iyoung]

I rode at about 6:00 last night and the conditions were great. I'm amazed at how well this trail sheds water. Thanks to all you who worked so hard to make Theo happen. I don't know what I'd do if I lived in Eagan ;)


Who is the wanker that can't ride around the trees?

I hit the very large broken tree in the "Twister" section last night. I'm pretty sure that tree's been broken a long time since the trail is routed through the 2 halves of the tree. I'm also certain that the tree hurt me more than I hurt the tree. :hit:

[RyanVerhulst]

I don't know what I'd do if I lived in Eagan ;)


You'd go to lebanon?

[iyoung]

You'd go to lebanon?

I do ride Lebs when it's dry. The point was that I feel Theo sheds water much more efficiently and thus is open for guilt free use more often and that I'm thankful to live close to it.

[RyanVerhulst]

I guess I missed the difference between the two in dewetting. I live a lot closer to Wirth than Lebanon, but haven't tried Wirth yet. I wanted to go last weekend for the opening day, but I'm a wuss and it was rainy.:etard:

[Whatsmymantra?]

Sorry about the rant, sometimes you have to vent

Isaac, nice bruise, I have made the exact same mark at the exact same place myself. The trees I refer to are the little ones that some people feel the need/right to destroy. The latest one is by the speed bump rocks. I blame it on poor parental training.
I'll stop now before the ranting begins again.

[Wheels]

I think we have some touch-up work to do on the scattered rock gardens that would likely alleviate some of these problems.

The scattered rocks need to be replaced with a continuous rock surface, or to remove the rocks. When there are spaces between the rocks riders will eventually create rutting between the rocks making them even harder to ride and causing erosion, or they will begin to simply ride around them - cutting new trail where we don't want it.

Hang in there, we'll get back to maintenance in a few weeks and we'll fix this problem.

[SuperClydesdale]

I think we have some touch-up work to do on the scattered rock gardens that would likely alleviate some of these problems.

The scattered rocks need to be replaced with a continuous rock surface, or to remove the rocks. When there are spaces between the rocks riders will eventually create rutting between the rocks making them even harder to ride and causing erosion, or they will begin to simply ride around them - cutting new trail where we don't want it.

Hang in there, we'll get back to maintenance in a few weeks and we'll fix this problem.

Shawn

Bad back be damned, let me know when I can lend a hand to help remove the "scattered rock gardens." I'll take one for the team in order to get this accomplished.

Mark

[ryno lite]

I'm with you on that one Mark!

[stoneage]

I agree that the rock gardens in place at the moment aren't the best; we did the best we could do at the time with the materials we had. The U team hauled rocks over from a construction site to help out. Personally, I like a little challenge to the trail, but hey, I'll just be able to ride my road bike with 23 cm tires over the entire trail if we take them out. I say bring more rocks in and let's quit being weenies. This is an 'off road' trail we built, isn't it? Or maybe the majority of the riders want a nature trail. If you can't ride it, learn to ride it or walk. Or pave it, maybe. I guess I don't know. Not a rant, just confused.
One thing I can guarantee, if you make it too easy, there will be rogue trails built.

[Wheels]

I agree that the rock gardens in place at the moment aren't the best; we did the best we could do at the time with the materials we had. The U team hauled rocks over from a construction site to help out. Personally, I like a little challenge to the trail, but hey, I'll just be able to ride my road bike with 23 cm tires over the entire trail if we take them out. I say bring more rocks in and let's quit being weenies. This is an 'off road' trail we built, isn't it? Or maybe the majority of the riders want a nature trail. If you can't ride it, learn to ride it or walk. Or pave it, maybe. I guess I don't know. Not a rant, just confused.
One thing I can guarantee, if you make it too easy, there will be rogue trails built.

Bill,

There's nothing wrong with adding challenge to the trail. The only thing that kept Wirth from being totally smooth in the past were the roots we rode over and the erosion that accumulated around unsustainable features. You could have rode the old trail on sew-ups if you wanted to, so it's not like we've stepped backwards on this issue.

I never thought it would smooth out the way that it has, but it's not in-ordinary for these trails. You could probably ride Brownie on a road bike too if you cared to give it a go (and you have Bill's skills).

I know this is a sticky issue for you Bill, but there have been complaints from many (most?) about the construction of the scattered gardens since they were placed. Don't take it personal, the previous work is much appreciated, and I'm all for features - but they have to be constructed in a sustainable manner. If an advanced skill is required to ride the feature we have to provide an obvious alternative. Currently the scattered gardens aren't working on either count - so we'll have to come up with a solution.

We simply know more now than we did before about how to do something in a sustainable manner. If that means more rock and more work - we'll do it. Otherwise we'll remove them, but it sounds like we have a few folks up to the task of upgrading the features in question - thanks for stepping up guys.

[Wheels]

Sorry,

Didn't realize this was the Trail Conditions thread when I replied...

I just wanted to add that a sustainable way to keep the scattered gardens would be to create a layer of ground-flush stones with random stones sticking up higher - like they are now. That way if riders go between the higher rocks they won't be digging the track deeper.

[Whatsmymantra?]

then again some people don't get it. Rode over to inspect the trail and you can see that the trails are wet, there were fresh ruts every were.

[noise_is_life]

Without speaking to the maintainability issues of the "scattered" rock garden, I kind of like having it there as it is, it's a challenge I feel like I can grow into. I've only successfully navigated it once, but feel like I can learn something from riding it some more. There should be an alternate though since this isn't and expert section of the trail.

[jitterjepp]

then again some people don't get it. Rode over to inspect the trail and you can see that the trails are wet, there were fresh ruts every were.
I think this is going to be a huge problem at wirth. There are so many entrances and exits on the trail and there really isn't a parking lot like there is at Lebanon, the Blast trail or any of the other trails. You can't tell if people are out there and they come from all over the city and just ride to the trail. I think by the end of the summer there will be more people riding Wirth than Lebanon. Maybe its already that way. Everytime I'm out there I see people I've never seen. Before MOCA there were only a few of us out there riding and I really never noticed the trail being trashed from people riding on it when it was wet. (With a few exceptions where the water sometimes didn't drain out until the end of July) Somehow a bunch of poachers still had some ethics and understanding about basic trail care. Those days are over. There are hundereds of people riding this trail now and many of them don't know the difference between a wet and dry trail. Sometimes I even question what other people call dry or wet. Someone says it's tacky and to me it still looks a bit wet and I think it's dry and someone else says it still needs another day to dry out. Then you have fifteen people going out and riding on it to "check it out" and see if it's dry before some posts the info. It's all good intentions but I've left some ruts doing this when I've come flying along and hit a wet spot before walking off the trail and going home. Maybe we could have just one or two people check it and post the information.
It's going to have to be regular like though. If I don't see anything posted the day after it rained by noon I'm going to start getting all ansy because I don't know.
The other thing is are we going to be able to physically close the trail with some type of obsticles or gates for trail closures so this wont keep happening? I really think something like that is going to have to happen due to the number of riders on the trail. What about signs? Can we put some signs up with photos of what the trail looks like when people should not be on it. Maybe post them in at all the entrances and exits? Can we get some good sized signs and ask all the bike shops and jumbo one stop outdoor gear shops to post them where the will be easily noticed? This shouldn't be a problem. After all WE are a big part of thier business with all the bikes and crap we buy and if trails start getting closed it means fewer mountain bike sales and when have they ever gotten 300 mountain bikers together at a trail head on a day when you couldn't even ride.

It kind of sucks not being able to go out and ride on such a nice day and then go back to find the thing is all torn up from either people who didn't know or people who didn't give a rats ass. I really think something needs to happen because it's just going to get worse.

[mcarples]

In my opinion, the rock gardens need to be kept, but improved. The mainb problem is that all the rocks used need to be bigger for the trail to be more sustainable, more technical, and more fun. The best example in Minnesota that I can htink of is sections of the X and XX loop at Lebanon. Wirth is an easy ride as it is...the rock gardens and rock climb add a bit of interest to an otherwise bland (but still great) trail.

On a side note...great work everyone on this trail. Getting back out to Minnestota after being away at school all year left me very impressed with what happened to Wirth.

-Matt

[michelin_man]

I went to ride a couple laps around Theo tonight, and show one of my buddies the trail. Bad idea. I guess it must have rained more than I thought in the last two days because a lot of the trail is wet!! We got 1/4 through the lap before we decided to bag it. Almost all of the trail is mud or very slick stuff.

The thing is we saw someone exiting the trails as we came in and they didn't say anything. And someone went into the trails as we were packing up. I hope it didn't do any damage.

I'm no expert, but I'd say wait until Monday to ride. And that is assuming it doesn't rain any more.

[jitterjepp]

I went to ride a couple laps around Theo tonight, and show one of my buddies the trail. Bad idea. I guess it must have rained more than I thought in the last two days because a lot of the trail is wet!! We got 1/4 through the lap before we decided to bag it. Almost all of the trail is mud or very slick stuff.

The thing is we saw someone exiting the trails as we came in and they didn't say anything. And someone went into the trails as we were packing up. I hope it didn't do any damage.

I'm no expert, but I'd say wait until Monday to ride. And that is assuming it doesn't rain any more.

See thats what I'm talking about. Everyone riding it..everyone checking to see if it's ok. If I hadn't read this post I'd be out there checking too.

[Trevize1138]

See thats what I'm talking about. Everyone riding it..everyone checking to see if it's ok. If I hadn't read this post I'd be out there checking too.

I don't think you'll ever get jus a couple people out checking it while everyone else waits for a report, though. I really like that so *many* different people post with trail conditions at Theo. It's probably the most-updated trail conditions in Minnesota!

A variety of reports also means that you can make up your mind better about what the conditions are really like. If one person says it's "a little wet" but another says it's "tacky" and yet someone else says it's "dry with a couple muddy spots" then you could deduce that the trails are, overall, tacky.

I would not discourage anyone from going over there and checking out conditions, even if it means they rode a part of the trail. Seems like just about everyone that reports bad conditions also reports only riding 1/4 of a lap before exiting so they don't do any more damage.

The news they provide and the warning that the trails are too wet to ride prevent so many others from riding that it's perhaps worth the mile or so of wet riding to prevent even more damage.

Besides, the grand openning did show a great example of how this trail can take some rather heavy traffic in the rain and sustain minimal damage. I'm not saying ride when wet! :) I'm saying a truncated, wet, examinatory ride isn't so bad.

[Trevize1138]

Don't forget to update the main "Trail Conditions" page from the link off of the MORC home page.

That page is NOT part of the forums :)

Also, don't just updated the conditions and brief description, also update the date and time as people use these to determine how recent the update is and, therefore, how accurate.

Thank you!

[Trevize1138]

Conditions are excellent!

Nice and tacky on the IMBA standard trail. There are muddy spots on "legacy" sections of the trail where water never drains well, but for the most part it doesn't get any better. Get out and ride!

[viv]

Heh...Heh... Anybody see the skinny tracks @ Wirth? I've been seduced by the dark side this spring and have been riding my Specialized Tarmac Pro (thats a road bike) Seems everytime I get the chance to ride it has just rained. The roads dry faster than the trail...Anyway I couldnt resist takeing my first spin of the year @ Wirth on my beloved Tarmac. Its a cute little trail now...smoother than most of the roads I ride...(O.K. out of respect for my bike I did walk most of the rock gardens.

[jitterjepp]

Bill,

There's nothing wrong with adding challenge to the trail. The only thing that kept Wirth from being totally smooth in the past were the roots we rode over and the erosion that accumulated around unsustainable features. You could have rode the old trail on sew-ups if you wanted to, so it's not like we've stepped backwards on this issue.

I never thought it would smooth out the way that it has, but it's not in-ordinary for these trails. You could probably ride Brownie on a road bike too if you cared to give it a go (and you have Bill's skills).

I know this is a sticky issue for you Bill, but there have been complaints from many (most?) about the construction of the scattered gardens since they were placed. Don't take it personal, the previous work is much appreciated, and I'm all for features - but they have to be constructed in a sustainable manner. If an advanced skill is required to ride the feature we have to provide an obvious alternative. Currently the scattered gardens aren't working on either count - so we'll have to come up with a solution.

We simply know more now than we did before about how to do something in a sustainable manner. If that means more rock and more work - we'll do it. Otherwise we'll remove them, but it sounds like we have a few folks up to the task of upgrading the features in question - thanks for stepping up guys.
Huh? I don't get either. I can already ride my 1975 40lb Raliegh road bike through the entire trail without stepping off. It thought we were building a trail with obsticles. There are already two other places where people can ride with out obsticles and nearly both are completely flat for the most part and they have straight runs instead of a bunch of turns and curvs. Its called the bike paths and the street. Cant the complainers just ride there? I mean thats what they are looking for. Obviously very few of these people rode through wirth before the Pilot trail was started. I remember riding through giant "V" trees that my bars barely fit through. A scattered rock slide going down a steep slop towards twin lake. A long log ride. A tetor toter. Giant roots. Broken glass. Bricks in the trail. The ocasional naked man obsticle. Uphill switch backs. A 55 gallon Barrel jump. The double downhill and go under a five foot high dead fall in the hwy 55 section. That big spear of a dead fall tree staring at you as you came zooming down the long run near the Eastern fence that wanted to impale you.
I don't know...are we going to put tar on it next or what. Maybe we could all ride our skate boards there then.

[FSSS]

Huh? I don't get either. I can already ride my 1975 40lb Raliegh road bike through the entire trail without stepping off. It thought we were building a trail with obsticles. There are already two other places where people can ride with out obsticles and nearly both are completely flat for the most part and they have straight runs instead of a bunch of turns and curvs. Its called the bike paths and the street. Cant the complainers just ride there? I mean thats what they are looking for. Obviously very few of these people rode through wirth before the Pilot trail was started. I remember riding through giant "V" trees that my bars barely fit through. A scattered rock slide going down a steep slop towards twin lake. A long log ride. A tetor toter. Giant roots. Broken glass. Bricks in the trail. The ocasional naked man obsticle. Uphill switch backs. A 55 gallon Barrel jump. The double downhill and go under a five foot high dead fall in the hwy 55 section. That big spear of a dead fall tree staring at you as you came zooming down the long run near the Eastern fence that wanted to impale you.
I don't know...are we going to put tar on it next or what. Maybe we could all ride our skate boards there then.

Dude, come on... this is the TRAIL CONDITIONS THREAD.

Go to the Trail Issues Thread (and my 2 cents):
http://www.morcmtb.org/forums/showthread.php?t=12197&page=14&pp=15

[Aaroneous]

To return this thread to it's purpose, I'm guessing the trail is wet.

Wet like the cheeks of a whining, crying baby who can't let go of the past.

[stoneage]

Wet like the cheeks of a whining, crying baby who can't let go of the past.
I'm guessing it's not wet, but what the hell is that supposed to mean? :confused:

[Aaroneous]

I'm guessing it's not wet, but what the hell is that supposed to mean? :confused:

It was an attempt at obtuse name-calling directed at the new trail's detractors. Maybe only funny to me.

So it's NOT wet. It's most likely tacky, like my use of grammar. Or perhaps it's dry, like my sense of humor.

[stoneage]

new trail's detractors.
It's hard to put something on the web, and have it's context be known. I guess that's why they invented these silly emoticon things. Anyway, Shawn has put in lots of time and effort on the trail, as have I, and feel not only pride of ownership, but also the responsibility of criticism when it is needed. I'm no wallflower when it comes to dishing out criticism (or praise) whenever it is necessary. In our opinion, it is needed.

[Konaboy]

I'm so confused...

[Wheels]

Bill just called in a trail report at 5:00 - great riding, trails are dry, but soft on Zip and Skyline (still rideable).

Enjoy.

[Konaboy]

Thanks for the quick response.

[jitterjepp]

To return this thread to it's purpose, I'm guessing the trail is wet.

Wet like the cheeks of a whining, crying baby who can't let go of the past.
What are you looking for as far as a response goes for that?

[Trevize1138]

Bill just called in a trail report at 5:00 - great riding, trails are dry, but soft on Zip and Skyline (still rideable).

Enjoy.

That's why we need the MORC forums available via PDA, pocket PC or cell phone :D

[Wheels]

That's why we need the MORC forums available via PDA, pocket PC or cell phone :D

Email to XML feed.

[Trevize1138]

Email to XML feed.


I love it when you talk dirty like that...

[flombe]

I finished a couple of laps tonight but skipped Zip and White Pine Flyer on my 2nd lap as there were some fairly soft/muddy spots. The exit trail (Skyline I think) is muddy up on top as it always has been (must be a section of clay?). The rest was in great shape and very grippy!

Having said all that, it is pouring rain right now and the trail will not be rideable tomorrow. It seems to take 24 hours after rain ends for the trail to get to the "rideable" point.

[flombe]

I finished a couple of laps tonight but skipped Zip and White Pine Flyer on my 2nd lap as there were some fairly soft/muddy spots. The exit trail (Skyline I think) is muddy up on top as it always has been (must be a section of clay?). The rest was in great shape and very grippy!

Having said all that, it is pouring rain right now and the trail will not be rideable tomorrow. It seems to take 24 hours after rain ends for the trail to get to the "rideable" point.

Can I reply to my own posts? Is that OK?

My previous post is from Monday night. I would guess Theo is ready for riding. Has anyone been out there today?????

[iyoung]

I checked out the trail @ about 5:30. There were a lot of water and mud puddles. Hopefully it will be dry again by mid-afternoon tomorrow.

[flombe]

I checked out the trail @ about 5:30. There were a lot of water and mud puddles. Hopefully it will be dry again by mid-afternoon tomorrow.

I agree! Too soft to ride. Maybe tomorrow? More likely FRIDAY!

I checked out the trails at 7:00 PM. The little I saw was pretty chewed up. Even some of the sloped parts of the trail were turning to mud.

Also, the unofficial trail between Glenwood and Hwy 55 was thrashed too. The worst I have ever seen it.

Theo needs a break to dry out and firm up!

[godsey]

anyone tried the worth trails yet today--thursday?

[oldgrowth]

As of 4:00 pm, most of the trail seems to have dried out well. But be careful! There are still a few isolated wet spots and the sections that usually get a bit greasy after wet weather are still not very firm. Large parts of skyline are very wet and trashed, so you might be better off coming out on the paved bikepath instead. Most of the trail can be ridden if its done with care. I'm predicting that by noon on Friday it will be in great shape.

[FSSS]

Definitely a lot of wet spots. Too many for the number of riders I saw out there tonight. Quite a few of the wet spots are starting to cup pretty bad.

I probably saw 35-45 riders on the trail, going to the trail, or leaving the trail between 7:00 and 8:00 tonight.

p.s. - All the recent rock work is sweet!! :D

[iyoung]

Trail has firmed up nicely. Enjoy!

[syntaxjunkie]

Trail is in fine riding shape as of this morning. The only wet spots I saw were in a few low areas around armorings that probably shouldn't be getting bike traffic anyway (as they tend to lead into trees). The sections that felt spongy and new just a couple weeks ago are firming up into fast riding trail. On a personal note, I was 2 for 3 on the rock hill, with a spinout at the top on lap three being my downfall. If you're reading this, you should be riding (unless you just got back...).

[LightWeight]

If you're reading this, you should be riding (unless you just got back...).

Just got back. Should have been fun except that this was my first off-road ride w/clipless pedals. It turned what should have been an enjoyable morning into literally "hell on wheels."

[col200]

I just got back as well. The trail was very dry. The only wet spots were in Skyline. btw-I love that new rock garden climb. I ALMOST made it up the entire way. I picked a bad line and my rear skipped a bit.

[Burke]

Finally made it out to Wirth for the first time since before construction began. I am floored. This is some really incredibly fun singletrack.

I was out with the wife on our tandem. We rode from the house, did two laps, and returned. 31 mile round trip, just under 3 hours.

The first lap, we almost made it up the rock climb, just spun out a little at the top. I think it was because my wife was distracted by the speedo-ed guys walking down the rock climb telling us we were doing a good job. We cleaned it the second time. We walked some of the rock obstacles and logs the first lap to make sure we could clear them with the timing chain. Between the two laps, we cleaned everything except for the large log pile that's unrideable on the tandem and we didn't try the cement ride on the right of the trail. I ALMOST went for it on the 2nd lap, but decided that would be best saved for a different day.

KUDOS on the trail. It's super fun, sustainable, and narrow! Gotta love the hand built singletrack.

[The Buckthorn Killer]

A tandem??? Wow, Theo is tight on a regular bike. If you ever ride the concret on the tandem, we need a photo.

[manual63]

Did it rain in MPLS today? Some rain came through, but I hope Theo is still open for tonights ride.

[noise_is_life]

It did rain a bit here and there is more on the way.

[manual63]

Uh....I think we are about to get dumped on!

[Panman]

You are about to, or should have very strong storms moving in. My guess there will be down'ed trees at Theo with the winds that just went through here. I KNOW there are many down now at Hillside, no question. Take it easy around the corners your first time out after this.

[thebionicman]

I'm in Roseville right now, I haven't seen it this dark in a while. Should be interesting after this comes through.

[manual63]

Wow......this is a crazy storm. Been watching it come in at work for quite a while now. It's just getting here with some crazy winds.

[syntaxjunkie]

Uh, safe to say that pretty much everything in the metro area is wet. Or worse.

[Wheels]

I wonder if Brownie will still be there when this is over(?)

[syntaxjunkie]

I wonder if Brownie will still be there when this is over(?)

Might be a few more log obstacles than there were this morning...

[flombe]

Wow! And Theo was so fast and smooth this weekend. Really with how fast this rain came down it should roll off much of the tread. Maybe it will be good to go tomorrow.

On Sunday, I saw 4 father-son combos, 5 male-female couples, 2 women riding together, 1 woman riding solo, and around 10 dudes (the beach crowd is not included in my tally). Anyways, this is more female riders in one day than I have seen in the last 5 years combined of riding Theo. I thnik this is great news!

All riders were courteous and pulled over to let me ride through.

[Uncle Leo]

All riders were courteous and pulled over to let me ride through.

Were you dressed like a police officer? ;)

[flombe]

Were you dressed like a police officer? ;)

Nah, buck naked except for helmet socks and shoes and singing "Follow the Yellow Brick Road" at volume 11.

[Uncle Leo]

I bet people dropped back REAL fast after you passed them by!

I'm just jealous (not of the naked thing) because I so rarely get to pass people. I did scare a deer off the trail at Terrace yesterday, does that count?

[Whatsmymantra?]

Had slightly different experience on Sunday. Came up upon an overweight guy without a helmet (can I say fat f**K), I slowed down and followed at 1-2 bike lengths back. after about 2 min I had to ask if I could please pass. He did pull over but then barked at me to slow down. Gave a new meaning to speed bump.

[stoneage]

Just say, "Speed up, please". Then smile and tell him to have a good day. :)

[Trevize1138]

Nah, buck naked except for helmet socks and shoes and singing "Follow the Yellow Brick Road" at volume 11.

I just sing at volume 10, but it's just as high as 11, I just have 10 be the loudest.

[Trevize1138]

Had slightly different experience on Sunday. Came up upon an overweight guy without a helmet (can I say fat f**K), I slowed down and followed at 1-2 bike lengths back. after about 2 min I had to ask if I could please pass. He did pull over but then barked at me to slow down. Gave a new meaning to speed bump.

I know that guy! He was driving 50mph in the left-hand lane of 35W and then when I passed him he honked his horn and yelled out his window "Slow Down!"

:crazy:

[noise_is_life]

I just sing at volume 10, but it's just as high as 11, I just have 10 be the loudest.

Ummmm...But ours go to 11!

[Trevize1138]

Ummmm...But ours go to 11!

No, that was the last drummer. You know, the one who choked on his own vomit? Actually, we found out later it was someone else's vomit, but we'll never know for sure. I mean, you can't exactly dust for vomit now, can you? The police said it was one of those things that was best left "unsolved."

[flombe]

OK, we are a little off the trail condition topic. Gotta love "Spinal Tap"!

So, what are the odds for riding Theo W tonight at 5 PM?

[flombe]

Rode three laps starting at 7 PM. Overall in excellent condition with some mud holes where the tread has cupped, primarily in corners. Noticed some "work-arounds" developing to avoid the mud. Wx forecast looks good. Get out and ride!

Caution - new deadfall on the unofficial Glenwood to Hwy 55 trail. Also one on the side of trail in White Pine Flyer if I recall correctly.

[jitterjepp]

Great the trail finally starts drying up and I have to head back to Florida. I couldn't even ride Sunday because I was trashed after Grandmas and now I feel better but I have a nasty golfball sized case of bursitis going in my elbow from smashing it on something at work. Now I'm worried about bashing it into trees like I always do and making it worse. Will the rain and injuries never end? I remember back in the day you could go do stupid things and still get up in the morning and feel good. It seems those days are getting closer and closer to being over. Now everything just hurts more and hangs around longer or everything always had a price and I just pay more attention now to amount of health in my wallet so to speak and think more about where I'm going to spend it. Ok...right whatever. Lets ride! Let hell pay tomorrow.

[flombe]

Yeah, who put all those trees in there?!?!:laugh: They have added a couple of real nice dings to my bod this year.

No rain since Monday except for a spritz this morning means the trails should be in great condition. Has anyone been out this week? I assume all is nice and dry and fast.

[mcarples]

The trail is bone dry, except for one soft spot which was deep mud too days ago. If anything, the trails are a little too dry. The turn after the cement "skinny" took me out as it was so dry that my awful, awful tires couldn't hold it (Damn Bontrager Jones). I think this is the first time I have actually been hoping for a small rain in a while (only a 1/4 inch or so).

[KleinCrazy]

Anyone have an idea of how hard Theo got hit with the rain this morning?


The Kenwood ride was skipped last week due to rain and many are hoping that it doesn't happen again.

Thanks for any help you can provide.

[Wheels]

I talked to Bill this morning and he said it was pretty wet - if anyone is out please call in with a report - I'm in the phone book.

[manual63]

Are we being rained out of yet another Theo ride??
...sigh...
:cryin:

[Wheels]

Baba just called in, says the entry at 55 is dry - but he hasn't checked the rest - should be good to go though.

I'm sure Skyline is wet - so you may want to take the tar path instead and drop back into the triple turn hill by the beginner exit.

[manual63]

Yeah, but I am watching more rain come in on the radar....:mad:

[Wheels]

Check the weather here: (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/ifps/MapClick.php?CityName=Minneapolis&state=MN&site=MPX)

[manual63]

Check the weather here: (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/ifps/MapClick.php?CityName=Minneapolis&state=MN&site=MPX)

Don't worry...I know the weather. It's my job.....:p

[Wheels]

Don't worry...I know the weather. It's my job.....:p

I know, it's not all about you - other people read this too :)

Why don't you post up a link to that weather app you're building?

[Adam Hjelle]

The turn after the cement "skinny" took me out as it was so dry that my awful, awful tires couldn't hold it (Damn Bontrager Jones). I think this is the first time I have actually been hoping for a small rain in a while (only a 1/4 inch or so).

And I thought it was just me and my technique having problems holding. I have the same tires and slide all over when the trail is uber dry. Last time I was at Theo I almost washed a few times, and I wasn't even leaning very far...time for some better XC tires.

[manual63]

I know, it's not all about you - other people read this too :)

Why don't you post up a link to that weather app you're building?

Sorry, gotta pay for that....:D

[stoneage]

Sorry, gotta pay for that....:D
Not as long as WeatherDock or Meteorologist are free.

[flombe]

I office 2 miles east of Theo Wirth. A nice downpour just passed through. I was hoping to ride tonight but now assume that all is too wet. Post up if you have been out there this afternoon past 3:30.

[mcarples]

And I thought it was just me and my technique having problems holding. I have the same tires and slide all over when the trail is uber dry. Last time I was at Theo I almost washed a few times, and I wasn't even leaning very far...time for some better XC tires.

With all the money I put into my bike, I still can't seem to get rid of these. Some panaracer Fire XC Pro 2.1's are coming soon I hope. Need to make some money though.

[mcarples]

any word on the trails and the ride tonight? I'm assuming its off due to the rain, but I'm hoping I'm wrong.

[rKo]

With all the money I put into my bike, I still can't seem to get rid of these. Some panaracer Fire XC Pro 2.1's are coming soon I hope. Need to make some money though.

I have a pair of the XC Pros and they are a great tire. They get a little packed with mud in messy conditions, but they are great at Theo. I think my pair was $30 at pricepoint.com.

[Trevize1138]

any word on the trails and the ride tonight? I'm assuming its off due to the rain, but I'm hoping I'm wrong.

I'm going to take an exploratory run over to Theo during lunch. My guess is the trails are too muddy after yesterday, but they do dry awful fast. :)

[1x1Clyde]

I'm going to take an exploratory run over to Theo during lunch. My guess is the trails are too muddy after yesterday, but they do dry awful fast. :)

Could you post conditions as soon as possible, I work downtown and was hoping Theo would be o.k. to ride around 3p.m.?
Thanks.

[thebionicman]

You guys must be really dreaming if you think Theo will be dry.:shocked:

It was still raining this morning around 8:00 am. And it poured most of the night, but I know Chris is just looking for a break from work. :crazy:

[1x1Clyde]

You guys must be really dreaming if you think Theo will be dry.:shocked:

It was still raining this morning around 8:00 am. And it poured most of the night, but I know Chris is just looking for a break from work. :crazy:

A fella can dream, can't he?

[thebionicman]

I am all about dreaming. Try to visualize the entire trail, then next time you go out you can be that much faster. :banana:

[Trevize1138]

Sorry for posting late! I rode it at noon and everything except Skyline (riddled with puddles as always) is actually rideable!

I would classify the trail as "damp" and this afternoon it could very well pass for "tacky." But, damp is still what I'd call it. There were a couple puddles here and there at noon when I took my lap, but things are dry enough that I wasn't leaving any trace just about anywhere else.

Jeez, this trail dries FAST!

[thebionicman]

Unreal. Sorry for those who didn't get a chance to ride. I guess we did a good job on building this trail.

[Tetreves]

I think I could have been blindfolded, turned around three times, done a backflip and broken my neck and told you it would be mostly dry by this evening *if* it didn't rain at all today. If you watch the trends on different "Trail Condition" threads, you'll realize which trails dry out fastest, and therefore which are most likely to be open after a rain (and which ones aren't). Combine that with how much rainfall in the past 24 hrs. or so, daytime humidity, temp, and wind, and general soil content of said trail, and you'll have an idea if you can ride later that afternoon or not.

I don't write these facts down, I keep them in my head, so don't ask for a "Guidebook to Minnesota Singletrack Drying Time". :crazy:


Theo's soil drains well (except Skyline, which seems to have more clay), combined with a well-built trail, it dries faster than any other around. Nicely done MOCA! I love this trail...

[Wheels]

:
Theo's soil drains well (except Skyline, which seems to have more clay), combined with a well-built trail, it dries faster than any other around. Nicely done MOCA! I love this trail...

Skyline... we wanted to place the trail in a different place, but were not allowed to. It's cupped, like the rest of Theo used to be (is some of the original trail).

Hopefully we'll get to move it.

[mcarples]

I am constantly amazed with this trail. Rode a few laps at 8:30 tonight and the trails were great overall. Occasional puddles that were unavoidable and soft, but most of the trail was hard and fast. Skyline was not good but should be ready by tomorrow night. It seems to me that it is the same 10 or so spots that struggle after rain as they have become cupped and don't drain.

[stoneage]

except Skyline, which seems to have more clay
That is the only part of the trail that wasn't 'built'. It was existing from the ss worlds course from 2000. MOCA wasn't allowed to build it in the proper terrain. That was a decision by the MPRB. I would think they will have to reconsider that section, and decision, when the rest of the trail gets OK'd.

[Tetreves]

That is the only part of the trail that wasn't 'built'. It was existing from the ss worlds course from 2000. MOCA wasn't allowed to build it in the proper terrain. That was a decision by the MPRB. I would think they will have to reconsider that section, and decision, when the rest of the trail gets OK'd.

Ok. I'm wrong.

[stoneage]

Ok. I'm wrong.
No, you're not. The MPRB was.

[Kingbozo]

More heavy rain on the way today gang. This sucks.

[stoneage]

4-7:30 Thursday. Okey Dokey 'cept for the usual pot holes. Knocked some loose mud off a few cupped corners.

[Trevize1138]

I saw Bill headin' in to the trails on the service road and gave a "Hey, Bill!" shout out as my dad and I went riding by. Yup, definitely some muddy and wet pots here and there, but overall good. The muddy and wet pots mean we've got MANY maintenance spots to work on!

Poorly-draining trails make Baby Jesus cry.

[stoneage]

Sorry, I meant to say 'HI' Chris in my post and ask who was with you. I was just heading home.

[Trevize1138]

Sorry, I meant to say 'HI' Chris in my post and ask who was with you. I was just heading home.

That was my dad's first experience with singletrack! He was riding my wife's bike and I took him for an introductory loop of Theo. I think he's hooked and I might see if we can put knobbies and better pedals on his Trek comfort bike :crazy:. He foolishly thought he could ride the log skinny qualifier on Skyline, though, and got sent over the handlebars! No injuries, however. :)

[JHM]

I rode Theo on Friday evening. Almost perfect conditions. It was great to finally meet some riders to chase and not have to worry about slippery spots breaking up the flow. This trail gets better every time I ride it.

I found some a tool/etc. PM me with a description and I will find a way to get it back to you.

[wanderingrobots]

I rode theo today(7/3) and it was relatively dry. There were small puddles at the bottom of hills and one or two major puddles in bigger dips. It was muddy enough to cake up in my front tire but I wasnt at all covered in mud on the back of my shirt. I would say that sometime tommorow the trails will be dry

[stoneage]

It was muddy enough to cake up in my front tire
That, Jeff, was too wet to ride.

[col200]

Rode it this morning at about 8:30. The trail was a bit tacky (perfect in my opinion) but there were far too many puddles throughout the trail. I'll bet it will dry up pretty well by this evening.

[Burke]

The trail was in good shape at 6pm tonight. There were 3 mud holes on the loop north of the tracks. Two of the holes were in corners and back to back of each other. The trail is starting to eye out around the second one. The third hole is in the bottom of one of the quick down and up gulleys.


I recon'd the curb ride. It's definitely doable on the tandem. When the wife gets back from her cold we'll give it a try.

[soupboy]

was great Monday early evening. Well, except for the nutjob that was skidding nearly every turn.

To the silver Specialized FS bike owner with fenders - you may have been riding fast but skidding all those corners makes you a Fred.

[stoneage]

skidding all those corners makes you a Fred.
And also slower. A spinning wheel always goes faster. Physics. I have been just saying to them, "Skidding isn't a skill, and it's slowing you down."

[Aaroneous]

I did a lap yesterday afternoon on my fixie, and it was lovely... Except for that mud hole after the first log pile that has been ridden thru so many times it looks like it's filled with whipped chocolate frosting...

[Tetreves]

I did a lap yesterday afternoon on my fixie, and it was lovely... Except for that mud hole after the first log pile that has been ridden thru so many times it looks like it's filled with whipped chocolate frosting...

mmmmm....chocolate....:D

[Panman]

I just rode here today with Rum River Cycling group. Trail is in great shape. However, on the second lap I noticed someone nocked loose the top rock on the jump after the entrance. Humm...how to describe its location... Ok, at the main entrance all the way back in the north west corner of the first part (as it starts to get windy. There are a couple jumps/bumps and the second one that goes around a corner just after it has the rock loose. FYI I guess, didn't have time to take a better look.

[mara]

Thanks, Ryan. :) The trail planners hope to be out this weekend getting ready for trailwork starting Wednesday. I'll keep an eye out and see how we can fix it.

[manual63]

Mmmmm.....trailwork Wednesday......I have my Maddox all warmed up.....:)

[Magic]

I don't know what a Maddocks is but I like to use a Mattocks for my trail work.:D

[mara]

I don't know what a Maddocks is but I like to use a Mattocks for my trail work.:D

Well if we're being that way about it, I believe you use a mattock. All of us together use mattocks, except of course for those with a Pulaski :laugh:

[bigwheel]

What is the plural of Mattocks? Is there a hypen in "anal retentive" ? ;)

[manual63]

I don't know what a Maddocks is but I like to use a Mattocks for my trail work.:D

Mine is a Maddox......because it's just as Madd and an Ox....:)

Oh the spellcheck junkies are out in force.....:p

It's actually called the "Helmet Tester", not a Mattocks.....get it right next time!!

[mara]

What is the plural of Mattocks? Is there a hypen in "anal retentive" ? ;)

You can't pluralize an already plural word, silly. My picture is next to "anal-retentive" in the dictionary :crazy:

[bolmsted]

hypen? ...is this "to hype"; ...to elevate the level of hype.

[Wheels]

Is it Matti?

[flombe]

Singular is Mattock. Plural is Mattocks. Now, you can all sleep well tonight.

[mara]

Well if we're being that way about it, I believe you use a mattock. All of us together use mattocks, except of course for those with a Pulaski :laugh:

Singular is Mattock. Plural is Mattocks. Now, you can all sleep well tonight.

Hey, I already beat you to that. Typical -- a girl starts talking and male ears slam shut. :p

Heard the trail is pretty nice, though. I hope to find out first-hand tomorrow.

[noise_is_life]

The trail is great, rode it this morning.

[Trevize1138]

Agreed. I rode it over lunch. It's in nice shape. Not exactly tacky any more, but it's not so dry it's dusty/sandy on top. Get out and ride, folks! Don't get much better than this.

[Whatsmymantra?]

I was over at wirth earlier today and I think someone took a crap on the side of the trail. It smells real bad. WTF

[flombe]

Smells awful. Maybe there is a dead deer in the area. It seems to have come on fast and I do not recall the swamps smelling that badly.

[Wheels]

Yep, seems to be around Hoeg's Hill and the beginning of Twister - something dead.

The Trail Committee did an inspection of the trails this morning, getting ready to start the regular wednesday night work sessions again.

We have a list of 21 things to fix - most are pretty small. Overall we were impressed with how well the trail is doing, it's a bit dry at the moment - but the trails are great. Go ride!

Also, were in a bit of a transition as far as work goes - no new trail being built, but lots of maintenance and were preparing for some armoring projects.

If you interested in helping out, and/or getting more involved with MOCA - we could use some fresh blood. Most of us have been burning the oil for the last year, and some are getting weary - come get involved, we can use the help.

[mtnbykr]

....and I think someone took a crap on the side of the trail. It smells real bad. WTF

that would be soupboy... :?)

kl
[my crap doesn't stink...]

[stoneage]

I noticed it the other night. I think Flombe was behind me. I was looking, but didn't see anything. Even a smaller animal would rot pretty quickly with this temp and humidity. It's really bad by the spring pond that used to drain into the gully. Could be something dead in there, too. Makes you wish there were more flies in Wirth, instead of mosquitoes.

[grundy]

just FYI, there is a pretty big branch down about halfway through the trail...can't remember what section but it looks like a saw/chainsaw is needed to get it out of the way. It was awesome out there @7 last night btw.

[stoneage]

just FYI, there is a pretty big branch down about halfway through the trail...can't remember what section but it looks like a saw/chainsaw is needed to get it out of the way. It was awesome out there @7 last night btw.
Sorry I didn't post this last night. I cleared a bunch of the stuff (you can actually ride it), but a saw is needed. Part of a pin oak fell off and is partially blocking the trail. I think the section is called Twister.

[mara]

Sorry I didn't post this last night. I cleared a bunch of the stuff (you can actually ride it), but a saw is needed. Part of a pin oak fell off and is partially blocking the trail. I think the section is called Twister.

We'll have a saw out on Wednesday. Until then, DUCK! :shocked:

[Don Youngdahl]

Even a smaller animal would rot pretty quickly with this temp and humidity. It's really bad by the spring pond that used to drain into the gully. Could be something dead in there, too.

Are there any recent missing person reports? Maybe a body? That was the source (about 20 feet off the trail in tall swamp gress) of a bad odor a few years ago in an area I have ridden. Glad I wasn't the person that found the body. Never did hear if the person was identified.

Don Youngdahl

[grundy]

Are there any recent missing person reports? Maybe a body? That was the source (about 20 feet off the trail in tall swamp gress) of a bad odor a few years ago in an area I have ridden. Glad I wasn't the person that found the body. Never did hear if the person was identified.

Don Youngdahl

its been what...a week, week and a half? Still as strong as the first day i smelled it out there...must be something rather large to last this long in all the heat we've had.

[Adam Hjelle]

its been what...a week, week and a half? Still as strong as the first day i smelled it out there...must be something rather large to last this long in all the heat we've had.

I smelled it yesterday morning...kinda hard to ride when you are gagging over the stench, must have been quite a site to someone dry heaving on thier bike while trying to negotiate twisty singletrack...lol

[Panman]

Anyone watch Kare11 tonight? Sounds like it could be algae in the swamp. I guess it's really bad right now and stinks. But yes, it does smell like dead animal. Just a thought.

[mcarples]

Dry Dry Dry!!!! I'm praying for some rain soon myself. Watch out for downhill turns as they are very loose.

[Dominican boy]

Great 2 Laps at 1:00 p.m. Dry!! Hit it again tonite at 6:00 p.m.

[stoneage]

This trail is going to hold up really good through the wet seasons.
Nice call, Eric.
Just hope the Park board realizes it.
Oh, I think they do.

[Uncle Leo]

Rode over lunch today - main loop trail condition is beautiful, yesterday's rain settled the dirt down a little. There are 3-4 minor mud puddles but people have been riding right through so I didn't see any widening at all.
Didn't ride the short section at 55/Wirth.

[mcarples]

Rode over lunch today - main loop trail condition is beautiful, yesterday's rain settled the dirt down a little. There are 3-4 minor mud puddles but people have been riding right through so I didn't see any widening at all.
Didn't ride the short section at 55/Wirth.

The south loop is perfect, better than the main loop.

[Kingbozo]

If this has been discussed already I apologize.

Has anyone notticed large chunks of glass scattered on the trail at Theo? The pieces I have seen (and removed) seemed to be burried pretty deep like they have been there quite a while.

[Wheels]

Much of the area was used as a dump at one time or another, people have drank out there for years and thrown their bottles into the woods, there's even an old homestead - which I'm sure included a dump close by - some of those things "float" to the surface occasionally.

The best we can do is clean it up when we see it.

[noise_is_life]

Yeah, it seems that parts of Theo have been landfill in the past and there is lots of garbage and strange items scattered throughout the park. Feel free to pick up glass when you see it, I'm sure there is an infinite supply buried under the trail and it will contine to surface over time.

[That's funny, I meant to answer this earlier and when I finally get around to it Wheels posts at the same time and with a very similar answer]

If this has been discussed already I apologize.

Has anyone notticed large chunks of glass scattered on the trail at Theo? The pieces I have seen (and removed) seemed to be burried pretty deep like they have been there quite a while.

[homebrewbiker]

I rode for the first time in about a month, got surprised a little bit by the first rock garden, and ended up getting stuck about 2 feet before the end. Got screwed by the second "random" rock section (in North Star??) as usual, actually broke one of my water bottle cages when I took a funny bounce off of a rock and hit the little skinny tree with my water bottle somehow. I must say that the ramp off of the skinny makes it look much less scary than it used to. And, finally, the "qualifier" in Skyline is great fun.

The trail was in great shape, there was one wet spot, I think somewhere maybe around Snake Trail or Hoeg's Hill. I was a little surprised since it has been pretty dry.

Tallyho!

I had forgotten the aromatic qualities of the trail particularly Connundrum and White Pine Flyer.

[Trevize1138]

Tree Down Alert!

There's a tree down in "Twister." I doubt anybody will be surprised by it, you should see it in plenty of time to stop. No way to ride over it, though, unless you're *really* good at trials. And I mean really good. If you're that good, you're not riding Theo, you're too busy with the pro tour. It'll probably be fixed Wednesday (this is total speculation from someone who makes no decisions about maintenence priorities.)

Otherwise it's in great shape with a couple of the usual trouble spots of small puddles. :)

[Wheels]

Tom called me about the downed tree yesterday, same one as before.

I've already placed a call to the MPRB and it should be fixed soon.

[manual63]

What's the condition of Wirth today? Wonder if the Tuesday night ride will be possible or not.

[DMonkey]

Anyone know what the trails are like today yet? Thinking of riding tonight..

Thanks,

[stoneage]

I have to go riding early today (plus plug is broken on headlight), so I will post something or call someone as soon as I see Wirth.

[DMonkey]

Much appreciated - though I don't mind checking it out later, not a big deal for me, but more so for others who have to drive.

Thanks again,



I have to go riding early today (plus plug is broken on headlight), so I will post something or call someone as soon as I see Wirth.

[Wheels]

Bill just called in, says everything is good - there are a couple of wet spots, but no worries, we'll get them fixed tomorrow.

Go ride.

[mcarples]

Trail has seen it's better days, but nothing that simple maitenance can't fix. Lots of random debris or missing pinning rocks, etc... Trail itself is fairy dry for how much rain we got. Missed all of ya on the night ride.

[stoneage]

Missed all of ya on the night ride.
They'll get going better in the fall, when it gets darker earlier.
Trail itself is fairy dry
Too much fairy dust, huh?
Better than wet fairies, I guess!! :laugh:

[mcarples]

Too much fairy dust, huh?
Better than wet fairies, I guess!! :laugh:

Man did I ever walk into that one.

[syntaxjunkie]

For the record, Theo is the natural habitat of the elusive trail fairy...

[mcarples]

dry as can be...borderline sandy (I need new tires)

[dostoy]

anyone been out this afternoon? dry enough to ride tonight?

[Wheels]

Sight unseen, I don't see how we could have got enough rain last night to accumulate. Hopefully some of it sunk in, it was extremely dry when we were out for trailwork last night.

Go ride.

[jitterjepp]

Can't wait to go riding...ya ya ya ya :banana:...can't wait to go riding...ya ya ya ya..I'm dancing ya ya ya ..:banana:tonight is for seeing friends and partying....tomorrow is for riding...la la la ...

By the way Florida sucks! Minnesota rocks!!!! Yeah baby!!

Oh I'll be at trail work again now too. With a shovel in the dirt. Real dirt. Not that sandy crap that..................

[stoneage]

anyone been out this afternoon? dry enough to ride tonight?
Hack......cough......gasp......who is that? Wait till the dust settles. Oh yeah, go ride!!!!

[manual63]

Anyone have trails status. I am assuming it's too wet after all the rain we got last night and this morning.

If anyone knows, please post up.

[FSSS]

I'd guess it may be OK.

I don't think that side of the metro got very much rain.

Someone check it out before the Mon. Night ride!!

[homebrewbiker]

I'd guess it may be OK.

I don't think that side of the metro got very much rain.

Someone check it out before the Mon. Night ride!!

It was pouring rain when I drove into work this morning (I take 55 West from Downtown Minneapolis) and power was out in Golden Valley.

[manual63]

It got clobbered about 6 hours ago. Would Theo dry out that fast. It tends to have some fairly slimy muddy spots that stick around for 24 hours or so after a good rain, so I am doubful....but unless someone rides it or sees it....I am not sure.

[FSSS]

It looks like the area got around .13 inches this morning.

Hopefully with the heat and wind, it'll be OK by 6pm.

[mara]

Wheels posted that the trail is good to ride. I plan on being there at six. If the ride flops, at least we tried. The bummer is, I didn't plan on riding this morning, so no Camelbak. Won't miss that in this heat. :crazy: WooHoo, planning ahead!

[jitterjepp]

It got clobbered about 6 hours ago. Would Theo dry out that fast. It tends to have some fairly slimy muddy spots that stick around for 24 hours or so after a good rain, so I am doubful....but unless someone rides it or sees it....I am not sure.
It was so dry yesterday that I can't imagine even an inch or so sticking around and mudding the place up. Rain there now is probably a good thing to get some of the loose stuff packed down again. Just as long as the rain doesn't stick around for days on end so no one can go riding that is.

[mcarples]

It was so dry yesterday that I can't imagine even an inch or so sticking around and mudding the place up. Rain there now is probably a good thing to get some of the loose stuff packed down again. Just as long as the rain doesn't stick around for days on end so no one can go riding that is.

Yeah...I plan on being there at 6 as well. Theo has shed over an inch in one morning before so if we only got .13 inches (seems like nothing) Im positive the trail will be good to go.

[stoneage]

I checked at 1 and called in the conditions to Wheels. It was fine. There will be wet spots, but we already know that.
Go ride. Grandsons 2nd today, so KonaBoy and I won't be there.

[jitterjepp]

Wheels posted that the trail is good to ride. I plan on being there at six. If the ride flops, at least we tried. The bummer is, I didn't plan on riding this morning, so no Camelbak. Won't miss that in this heat. :crazy: WooHoo, planning ahead!
I prefer to call them (camelbak's) the pack that broke the camel back. Every time I even think about putting a pack on while mountain biking I think of how it felt on my one day ride on the White Rim Road that started out with 370 some oz. of water in the pack. It was so painful for the next two weeks I felt like the thing was still on my shoulders bouncing up and down with the straps digging in. I tried to tie it to every possible place on my bike but it wouldn't stay.
If the pack had been mine and not a borrowed one I would have tied a strap to my seat post and drug the thing behing my bike. 25 pounds of water sloshing around raincoats, fleece and a bunch of burger king sandwiches (I forgot to make a lunch the night before and got off to a late hangover...I mean start)? Anyway never again!! Until the next time anyway.

[jitterjepp]

By the way I'd totally be in the nut house if any one had come by at 11pm on the final climb up to the parking lot and heard me talking to the pack saying the most evil things to it. I may have even heard it talk back a time or two but those facts still have not been cleared up. It may have just been me talking in third person to myself all angry for starting so late.

[mcarples]

By the way I'd totally be in the nut house if any one had come by at 11pm on the final climb up to the parking lot and heard me talking to the pack saying the most evil things to it. I may have even heard it talk back a time or two but those facts still have not been cleared up. It may have just been me talking in third person to myself all angry for starting so late.
You rode white rim in one day??? that is impressive. We did it in three days (the last was only 10 miles) ands our 40 mile day was tough. That last climb sure is a brute...about a mile of non stop granny climbing if I remember correctly.

[jitterjepp]

You rode white rim in one day??? that is impressive. We did it in three days (the last was only 10 miles) ands our 40 mile day was tough. That last climb sure is a brute...about a mile of non stop granny climbing if I remember correctly.

Yeah that last climb was where I was talking to the pack. Or my third person was talking to the pack or to me or another person completely invisible in the dark up on a cliff was talking to the three of us. It was tough and I wasn't quite right at the end. That was actually only my second ride of the year that the spring. Bad timing for such a ride but I did make it back to Moab and hour before last call and got good and drunk fast so the pain would go away long enough for me to get some sleep.

[Wheels]

Blah, blah, blah, Camelback Schmambleback.... :kiss:

Trails should be good tonight, but be careful with the heat - maybe a quick dip in Sweeney is on the agenda....

I'm sitting here waiting for the WWW machine to resolve a DNS so I think it's a good time to take a break and go for a ride, see you out there.

[Don Youngdahl]

..... my one day ride on the White Rim Road ............

This thread is completely hijacked already, so I've got a question.

Did you ride the entire loop, doing both the drop down to Mineral Bottom, and the climb up Schaefer Canyon, or vice versa if you rode the loop clockwise? Truly an impressive feat if you did the entire loop! I met two mountain bikers doing the entire loop when riding my dirt bike several years ago. They were extremely grateful for the small bit of water I had left to share with them.

Don Youngdahl

[jitterjepp]

This thread is completely hijacked already, so I've got a question.

Did you ride the entire loop, doing both the drop down to Mineral Bottom, and the climb up Schaefer Canyon, or vice versa if you rode the loop clockwise? Truly an impressive feat if you did the entire loop! I met two mountain bikers doing the entire loop when riding my dirt bike several years ago. They were extremely grateful for the small bit of water I had left to share with them.

Don YoungdahlYes I did the whole thing but I went counter clockwise. It actually worked out well because the first twenty miles is a nice gradual downhill into the canyon I got there around 10:15 am and I started at 8:45 am. I think my bike computer was at about 23 miles when I hit Mineral bottom and I went the wrong way and all the way down to Minneral bottom and had to ride back up to the trail junction. Dont take a right at the sign if you go! Anyway I figured I would rather have one short steep climb at the end rather than a long gradual uphill climb that seemed to go on forever in the dark at the end. I could also see the lights in the parking lot where my car was parked at Island in the Sky for about the last five or ten miles which was very reassuring. I wasn't an easy ride but I'd like to do it again to see if I'm any better or if I can get a better time. The views were amazing too. I should post some of those photos with the big water crap stack of stuff.

[FSSS]

This thread is completely hijacked already...

And now it's back...

The trails are great right now.
A few puddles... but a lot less dust than we've had recently.

[FSSS]

RAIN!!!

The trails shoud be great tomorrow/this weekend!!!!

[FSSS]

DUUUUUUUUUSTY!!!!


[edit] Saw a dead crow just off the trail somewhere between A9 and A12 (right near A10 if I remember right).

West Nile????? I hope not.

I reported it - so someone from the Dept. of Health may be checking it out.

Might want to put on a nice coat of Deet before you ride Theo.

[stefan]

Still dusty! Still dead crow! Were those sand dunes near the rock garden? :)

[Dominican boy]

Will this Rain Stop at all??

[manual63]

Will this Rain Stop at all??

Theo really needs this rain. I am sure other trails feel the same. Please stay off the trails until they are dry (asking everyone, not just you)...:)

[col200]

It's gonna be great this weekend if it stops today. Can't wait! Nothing better than a tacky Theo.

[FSSS]

Nothing better than a tacky Theo.

No doubt!!!! How long has it been????? :banana:

[col200]

It's been about a cup of dust down into my lungs!:crazy:

[mcarples]

Bill or jitterjepp...or anyone else near the trail, is there a report??? I'm guessing its dry already as it was so dry before. It probably sucked all the rain up instantly. Theo is a thirsty beast.

[FSSS]

I'd bet it's too wet to ride. The trail seemed to have more moisture last night.

I'd guess all that dust on top is just going to form a layer of slime. I'd also guess it would harden up in a day or so once it stops raining.

Just guesses though.

[Wheels]

Bill is heading out, and will either update the site or call in shortly.

For now, consider them closed. Even if they're not totally soaked, all that loose stuff on top is just enough to create a rut on top. But we'll get a live report soon.

[stoneage]

Sorry, didn't have a chance to get out to the trail, but it is wet in Crystal, a mile away. We had sprinkles continuing up to 3:45 so go with Wheels' call and stay off.

[Earthman]

trails a great as of 2:30 am today both A and b are fine to ride. Jitterjep and i ended up doing 3 laps the ground is tacky and a little soft in some places but no puddles at all great riding out tonight. seemed like lot of loose rocks and sticks on the trail we tried to get most of them.

about the only wet spot on the trail is from my blood which should be dry by morning. so go out and try to find the spot that i ate it really hard at.

i'll give you a hint it is in the first section of the big loop and it looks like the start of a new trail. LOL

[col200]

Nice, so there's a dead crow which could have possibly died from West Nile and now there's blood! Sounds like a crime scene. Knowing the history of the land, you're not the first to leave DNA samples in the woods! :D

[homebrewbiker]

Any idea on the current conditions? I am guessing it is too wet after the big storms that moved through earlier in the afternoon? Was thinking about riding after work, but I may ride some paved trails instead.

[flombe]

I rode last night within 3 hours of the rain and the tread was fantastic! Extremes from a small mud hole to one loose dusty corner. I would head over and check it out. My guess with how dry and compacted the tread has become that it will be in great shape tonight.

Of course, I am not advocating riding if it is soft and wet.

[mcarples]

The trail is great...the occasional mud hole, but just ride through em. Also watch out for the occasional huffy or magna, they are lurking.

[syntaxjunkie]

just got back from a couple laps, and all is indeed well. first miles on the new steed were good ones, although the rear derailleur needs a little dialing in. serves me right for having gears, i know. anyway, the trail is in fine shape. tacky all around and the odd puddle as mentioned. looks like the rain might hold off for awhile tonight, too. although the bugs sure won't. anyway, get out and ride.

[Earthman]

a little sprinkly tonight but the trails a still great. really amazed how well they are holding up with the rain. not a a puddle to be found. i guess the people telling me what to do at trail work know what they are doing.
get out and ride.

better yet come out and ride with us at night. another night ride planed for tomorrow night ( weather permiting ) see other post for info.

[stoneage]

Sounds like a crime scene.
Tonight on WCCO:
CSI-Theodore Wirth
The rain stopped in Crystal (near Wirth) at 11 AM and I rode at 3:30 PM. A few small puddles, but otherwise wonderful. The deluge was hard and fast, so probably drained quicker than a slow steady rain, but that is an amazingly quick turn a round.

[manual63]

Trail was very sandy in some corners on Monday night. As much as we hate it that rain doesn't allow us to ride, Theo needs rain.

If you are riding out there, please watch the corners and try not to skid through them, that will only make it worse. Remember, "Skidding is not a skill" Even though I disagree.......:)

[Wheels]

Remember, "Skidding is not a skill" Even though I disagree.......:)

A skill that came in handy the other night at the post SSWC party... there was a skid contest outside the bar (which happened to be on a hill). Someone found a barrel of used lard nearby and spread it all over the start area - what a crazy mess! There was a door over some tires as a jump, and someone from the 612 lit it on fire, "then things got kinda' strange"...

I finished second to some hotdog from Madison in the skid - but I think the crowd was more interested in seeing some carnage than they were the longest skid, but represented well. The winning skid was over half a block...

[manual63]

I won the skidding contest at one of Geno's Alley parties a year or so ago. I got a PBR T-Shirt for making it across the whole riding area and then running into the barrier at the other end as people were jumping out of my way.....:)

I think I almost doubled the distance of the second place guy. I also wore out my tire and got a flat.......fun was had....beer was drank.....:)

I think Shawn and I will have to battle it out someday. We can see who can wear through a tire the fastest.

[col200]

I was out riding last night and there was a young kid on a Magna (bike from Target...kickstand and all). He was flying through Theo on that thing. I thought I'd be running him off the trail but I was wrong. There were times I had to jam on the brakes, but alot of the time he was standing up and bookin' down the straights. Anyway, on the sharp turns, he'd jam the back brake and almost 'drift' around the corner. It hurt to watch but almost kinda cool at the same time. As I passed I commented "watch the skidding" but he may have thought I was gonna do some sweet skid around the next turn and wanted him to watch me...but that's not what I meant.:D

[flombe]

With the dry tread it is hard not to bust the rear (and front!!:crazy2: ) loose on many a corner. I found that managing speed on the approach and watching the loose corners made me a smoother rider last night. Although I did have my bike fly from underneath me at one point.

[homebrewbiker]

I was out riding last night and there was a young kid on a Magna (bike from Target...kickstand and all). He was flying through Theo on that thing. I thought I'd be running him off the trail but I was wrong. There were times I had to jam on the brakes, but alot of the time he was standing up and bookin' down the straights. Anyway, on the sharp turns, he'd jam the back brake and almost 'drift' around the corner. It hurt to watch but almost kinda cool at the same time. As I passed I commented "watch the skidding" but he may have thought I was gonna do some sweet skid around the next turn and wanted him to watch me...but that's not what I meant.:D

Yeah that kid was behind me for one section. I had to pedal my a$$ off to stay ahead of him! At that time I didn't hear much skidding though.

[Trevize1138]

Or singing along to Lee Greenwood.

Ride Theo before it dries out too much again! Yesterday afternoon was just too sweet. The trail really grips your tires more than that sandy, dusty, loose crap. :banana:

[Earthman]

needless to say the trails are great today.

i did notice some new pining and some spots that people started using as a go around where blocked off. thanks for keeping the trails up "guys" ( mara included since she is more of man than i am )

i should be back at trail work and meeting next month.

[JHM]

I rode Theo Sun from about 10:45 to ~12:30 (excellent conditons). I was chatting with Tall Pete at the trail head (A4) when I noticed the trial sign was missing. It was in place when I arrived. We looked around and found it in the weeds a few feet away and replanted it.

It was in the ground at least a foot. Someone, in the middle of the day, took the time to winch it out and pitch it into the woods. WTF?

[jitterjepp]

I rode Theo Sun from about 10:45 to ~12:30 (excellent conditons). I was chatting with Tall Pete at the trail head (A4) when I noticed the trial sign was missing. It was in place when I arrived. We looked around and found it in the weeds a few feet away and replanted it.

It was in the ground at least a foot. Someone, in the middle of the day, took the time to winch it out and pitch it into the woods. WTF?
I say we put up a hidden camera. Anyone here have the equipment for a motion activated unit?

[col200]

I rode Theo Sun from about 10:45 to ~12:30 (excellent conditons). I was chatting with Tall Pete at the trail head (A4) when I noticed the trial sign was missing. It was in place when I arrived. We looked around and found it in the weeds a few feet away and replanted it.

It was in the ground at least a foot. Someone, in the middle of the day, took the time to winch it out and pitch it into the woods. WTF?

Hey, I designed that sign! I take that as a personal insult! I'm gonna get that bastard!:fool:

[JHM]

The hidden camera would be a cool idea. Imagine a wireless video setup that could be displayed on this site.

Another idea is to put up a sign that warns of video survileance. It might make some think twice.

I live on a rural road. A neighbor throws his McD bag out the window on a regular basis. The same technology might get this a$$hole someday too.

[Trevize1138]

Conditions aren't tacky anymore :(. The dryness is coming back and Shad saw his sex life flash before his eyes sliding out on a turn last night when his handlebar came dangerously close to his groin.

And when I talk about Shad's sex life, I do mean flash :)

[flombe]

And when I talk about Shad's sex life, I do mean flash :)

Is that as in the flash of a camera?

[Trevize1138]

Is that as in the flash of a camera?

A camera flash typically is set to last 1/1000th of a second. So, if your shutter speed is 60 (as in 1/60th of a second) the film is actually having the image burned onto it before and after the actual event of the flash. This is why sometimes you can get cool action shots in low light where everything is blurred and looking in-motion if you have a very slow shutter speed but pop a flash in the middle of it.

However, in the case of Shad's sex life, 1/1000th of a second leaves plenty of time for all those video games he plays.

[flombe]

I got dumped on during my second lap around 1:30 PM today. The fine silty dust immediately turned to grease. It looks like more rain is on the way according to the radar (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/radar/loop/DS.p19r0/si.kmpx.shtml). If it is light, the trail should be fine in the morning.

[flombe]

more rain is on the way according to the radar (http://www.crh.noaa.gov/radar/loop/DS.p19r0/si.kmpx.shtml). If it is light, the trail should be fine in the morning.

3" and counting in my rain guage since I wrote the above. I am a mile from the trailhead. Maybe tomorrow.....

[FSSS]

TRAILS CLOSED

"Trails are considered closed in wet weather and when the trail tread is wet."

The trails have received a lot of rain over a long period of time - they are getting a good soaking. Probably won't see the quick turn around we've seen in the past.

This is probably the toughest test the new trails have had - please stay off until they are drier and have re-opened.

They are focasting the rain to last until about noon. I'll check out the trail when it clears up. I'll be out there tomorrow too.

I'll keep posting.

[maximusthunder]

Are we open yet?????? I need to get my fix for the day, I'm starting to get the shakes!?!?!?!?

[FSSS]

Just got back...

Cleared 12-15 small trees off the trail. No big trees down.

I started my first walk-through at about noon. I counted over 45 puddles with standing water in them. And there were at least that many additional muddy spots.

Unfortunately, during this time 2 riders came through (one on a bright green Magna and one on a blue Giant). Both riders put considerable ruts into a bunch of corners in the southern loop - and they kept riding eventhough they were doing noticeable damage to the tread. I know it's hard to resist, but they wouldn't have done nearly as much damage if they had just waited another 6-8 hours!

:cryin:

I walked the trail again starting at about 2:30. All but maybe 7 of the puddles had turned to muddy spots. The trail had improved significantly, but it still had plenty of wet spots. Sorry if I was abrasive to any of the riders out there later in the afternoon (I was still pretty fired up about the earlier riders), and all the trailworkers appreciate you cutting your rides short.

I'd say if you have lights and were hoping to ride tonight you'd probably be good. Otherwise I'd recommend waiting until tomorrow.

Should be primo Monday AM! :banana:

[maximusthunder]

I hit the trail at 6 pm. There were 3 spots with standing water the size of a paint can top and 6 "muddy spots" not much bigger. Most of the bad spots were on the small loop coming back, the main loop was in great shape. Kudos to all the trail workers!!!!!!! I hope to be out there this Wed. evening to lend a helping hand.

[homebrewbiker]

Should be primo Monday AM! :banana:

So are you doing the Monday ride? I am assuming that there were be some people, I was planning on showing up.

[FSSS]

So are you doing the Monday ride? I am assuming that there were be some people, I was planning on showing up.

Yup. Whether I'll be meeting at Kenwood or intercepting the group later, I'm not sure.

Anyone been out today?? - I didn't make it out this morning.


tp

[syntaxjunkie]

wirth was delicious today. enough moisture over the weekend to make it superbly tacky and trés rideable. the prez, mr. demott and i sussed out the route for next weekend's saturday night summit ride. it's a fascinating, fast-moving tour of post-industrial minneapolis, culminating in the swooping singletrack of the one and only theo. oh yeah, and then you get to ride back. all good. better see ya there...

[JLS]

Planning a group ride at 6:00 tonight anyone know the condition of the trail?

[flombe]

Planning a group ride at 6:00 tonight anyone know the condition of the trail?

I rode at 7 PM last night and it was nice and tacky, as syntaxjunkie so eloquently mentioned, with a few soft spots . My rain gauge received 1 inch last night (I live 1 mile from trailhead). Theo does dry out quickly and it may be rideable by 6 PM. I would check it out and have an alternate plan if you find it to be too soft.

[Trevize1138]

Hoo boy. I rode 4 consecutive laps there yesterday I was having so much fun leaning into those corners :).

I would guess it's rideable for the after work crowd today. Perhaps on the soggy side of tacky, but tacky nonetheless. :)

[col200]

I was there yesterday as well and it was very fun to just crank into those turns for a change. There were a few muddy spots that will prob. be even worse today after the rain last night, but I'll bet most of the trail is great! It'd be nice to get a current report though.

[FSSS]

My rain gauge received 1 inch last night (I live 1 mile from trailhead).

Eric -
Thanks for posting this info. Rainfall amounts can really vary from one part of the metro to another, and it's nice to have someone nearby that has accurate data.

Thanks again.

tp

[FSSS]

Trails are most likely too wet to ride. With all this rain lately, the time needed to dry out will be longer than it has been (the trails aren't nearly as dry as they used to be).

The trails were pretty damp last night - borderline rideable in the south loop - so with this morning's rain they'll likely need a day or so to dry out. Please stay off the trails until the tread is solid and most all the soft/muddy spots have dried up.

Remember:
Trails are considered closed in wet weather and when the trail tread is wet.