T - 3 days and counting

What to pack, what am I going to wear, how are the conditions, can I get my bike lighter...Who gives a damn? Am I right? Hahaha.

The latest Intel is that Dazell Gorge and Tetina River isn't passable. So we are planning on using the Iron Dog route through Hellsgate to get to Rohn Roadhouse this year. Iditarod goes through Rainy Pass, and with no established route this year most of us will ride to Hellsgate and attempt to dip, dodge and dive overflow and holes in the ice.

The red route is Hellsgate. The purple route is Rainy Pass which we usually use along with Iditarod. The purple track is why Iditarod is NOT starting in Willow this year. 

Lately I've been helping my dad with his house sale. I got a great final week of training in that culminated in a Third Place at the Little Su 50k behind last years ITI winner Tim Berntson and local hotshot Jason Lamoreaux. Jason pipped Tim in a sprint finish. I'm happy for Jason, he finishes second and third a lot!

ADN Article: After 31 miles of tough pedaling, a fierce finishing sprint settles Little Su 50

I've got to give a big shout out to the folks at Speedway Cycles. I was "that guy" who brought bikes by the shop at the last minute. They came through and really got us "back on the road." Thanks a lot.

That's about all I have for now. I've gotta rest. 

Some of my favorite people. I'm so happy for Laura, she really worked hard for first place this year.

Man this is a good looking bike!

A new season, new trax and a new beard

Live, from the living room of Clint Hodges comes ITI prep 2017! Hahaha

It's been a few months since I've checked in. I had a great cyclocross season and I've been gearing up for a strong winter season.

I've looked back at the last few years and done some trimming, some training changes and....

A new Fatback Corvus! The bike has an incredible amount of frame space for all your bike packing dreams. The ride once loaded up is great. The options for mounting your gear are top notch as well. The type of riding and racing I do needs options, space, comfort and stability in soft snow. This frame ticks all the check marks for me.

A new piece of gear The Nosehat! It passed the test!

NoseHat

Another great addition to my bike this season. HED BFD 100mm rims. Minimal weight addition and a larger footprint.

Made in the USA, Fatback branded Hadley Hubs. These have proven to be a great addition to my bike.

Scott Menzies from Speedway Cycles built my wheels, two cross spoke pattern up front and three cross in the back with DT Swiss Competition Race spokes.

HED Big Fat Deal BFD Rims

DT Competition Race spokes

Speedway Cycles, Home of the Fatback!

I'm still racing with my friends on Revolution Racing.

Revolution Racing

These guys and gals are awesome! Everyone on the team is supportive of each other and the community. It adds that much more to an already awesome sport.

This is just a quick update, I'll be back around to share some more from this winter season. Until then, ride your bike and smile.