The Radavist

After a successful first year, the Odyssey BMX Texas Toast Jam returned to the east side of Austin, Texas with promises of more fun. And fun it was. With a bigger, deadlier Gauntlet of Death, flatland competitions, improved street course and a ripping dirt course, Texas Toast brought riders from all over the world to have at it over a weekend.

Even with a rainy first day, the turnout was thousands more than event organizer Taj Mihelich anticipated. The first day alone, over 2,000 people showed up to spectate and compete. It was really incredible to see it all take shape and everyone I talked to said it was the most fun they’ve had at a competition. Hell, most of them didn’t even consider it a comp. See for yourself below and don’t worry, this event is getting a ton of love here on the site. Expect more to come.

If you’re within driving distance of Austin, or you’re already here for ACL, you better make it out to the Odyssey BMX Texas Toast Jam this weekend. It’s bigger and better than last year, with a tighter, more techy dirt section, a new and improved Gauntlet of Death, better street course and even a flatland section. I went out yesterday to check in on the guys and it’s a lovely, colorful mess of ramps and paint right now. Some of which look dreadfully fun to shred.

Since moving to Austin and meeting Ross, all he’s been talking about was his 2012 Speedvagen build that he was ever so patiently waiting for. In the time he was sitting on the list, he began collecting parts. The Campagnolo group was a no-brainer, but the Clavicula cranks, Praxis rings, EE Cycle Works brake calipers and Alchemy hubs were above and beyond a standard kit, even for Ross. I have to say, I see a lot of balleur road bikes these days but this one is by far a favorite. See for yourself below!

Sure, it may look like a bunch of dudes, standing around, looking at some plywood but those are the most capable ramp builders west of the Mississippi. The crew is already cracking away at the 2012 Texas Toast Jam course. With the dirt already getting shaped and the ramps underway, you can expect it to be bigger and better than last year. I’ve seen the sketches for some of the course and its insanity.

Last week I swung by to see the guys. While I was checking in on their progress, I shot some photos with the Hasselblad. Check ’em out! And if you missed out on my photos from last year, see them here and my Recent Roll photos here.

This afternoon, Rapha is throwing a happy hour to celebrate their new display at Mellow Johnny’s here in Austin. Come see their product line up, from City Riding to Pro bibs and jerseys.

Time: 6-7pm
Location: Mellow Johnny’s Bike Shop
Address: 400 Nueces St. Austin, TX 78701

If you can’t make it out, I shot some photos of the display today. Click on the above photo to launch the gallery, or here to open in a new tab.

Ever since my Geekhouse got stolen (R.I.P.), I’ve been on a commuter and touring bike kick. Austin has a ton of great builds rolling around and when I can, I stop to admire them. My riding buddy Josh has a great Salsa Vaya that he picked up not too long ago. When I bumped into him yesterday, I had to take some photos of it. It’s nothing special by any means but it’s a great build and his OG Chrome bag shows lots of use, so I met him at the bar where he works, the Liberty and shot some portraits.

Click on the above photo to launch the gallery, or here to open in a new tab.

I miss my touring bike, even while taking these photos of Serena’s new Geekhouse Woodville, I was envious. They’re such nice bikes and the boys at Geekhouse do a superb job of modeling each build after their customer’s concerns. When Serena first wanted to get a new bike, we talked about her options. She ended up deciding on a Woodville. 26″ wheels, front, rear racks, fenders, Shimano and bar cons. This is a bike she’ll have her entire life and it’s a beauty. Now she just needs to take it on a maiden tour…

Click on the above photo to launch the gallery, or here to open in a new tab.

If you’ve been following this blog for any extended period of time, you’ll know how much I absolutely love the late Mike Mulholland’s work. There was just something so idiosyncratic, yet classic about his style and how could you overlook that head badge? While I’ve never owned a Cyclops, I once found myself in a eBay bidding war on an old t-shirt, respectfully bowing out at $100… A few months ago, Mike from MASH listed up this frame. After realizing it was way too small for me, I posted about it and a friend here in Austin scooped it up.

Chris took his time with this build. He wanted a modern road group, so he chose SRAM Red, mixed with Ciamillo Cycling Zero Gravity calipers. He even learned how to lace up wheels, selecting Chris King R45 hubs to HED Belgiums. There are a few off details with the bike as photographed here which I’ll go ahead and point out. Yes, the Thomson post is backwards and so is the front wheel. But don’t let those distract you from the double wishbone seat stays!

Click on the above photo to launch the gallery, or here to open in a new tab.