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The Chris Davidson diary
Chris Davidson is a former mechanic for Bontrager Racing Service, now in the service of Shimano Multi-Service.
Chris' diary entries will show you what life is like inside the pits and an insight into the mind of a mechanic.
NORBA finals - Durango, Colorado, August 26-29, 2004
Cruising Thursday
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Thursdays are always a good time at the NORBA events. There is no racing on Thursdays; most of the day familiar faces are seen arriving and setting up in the tech area. We have unbelievable weather this year in Durango (it rained every day here last year) with sunny skies and temperature in the 70s. The Ford girls came by for their usual tune-ups; their bikes take some abuse with all the travel. All in all, a slow day.
I promised back in Idaho to get some more pictures of Brian Lopes' (GT/Hyundai) personal motor home. This morning I saw it parked in the tech area with the electrical hooked up. I went over for the tour, but found no one home. I did get a few pics of the outside, including the custom graphics. I will work on more details.
They have added some additional distance and climbing to the XC course this year. I rode the course today after work and the climbing involves lots of the little ring, some sections are so steep that traction becomes an issue. The trail is in excellent shape here.
We have yet to have any 'local legends' sightings in the Shimano tent, but when NORBA comes to Durango, everyone comes out of the woodwork. Our own Coffee Bob is scheduled to arrive tomorrow.
I will put in one more plug for the 'Ask the Pro Mechanic' session tomorrow at the Shimano tent from 4-5pm. Come by with your questions and interact with some of the most experienced mechanics in the MTB world.
Racing starts tomorrow, I look forward to the excitement.
Until them, thanks for reading,
CD
Photography
Images by Chris Davidson
- Small, but totally deluxe - Brian Lopes’ personal motor coach
- Custom bike/moto racks for the back on the Lopes unit
- Custom decals on the Lopes mobile
- The view out the window of the condo in Durango: Engineer Peak, 12,972 feet