Pedalphilia

Some people pooh-pooh indoor bike riding, but it's the second greatest indoor sport, after kitchen roller skating. The only drawback? Explaining pedal-gouges in the stairwell walls; carrying your bike down the stairs shouldn't result in wall-divots so close to the floor, according to observant mothers. But we're not here to discuss the past. We're here to discuss sanctioned indoor bicycle races, specifically, Wheels of Glory III. A fundraiser sponsored by Will Cycle For Charity, Wheels of Glory pits riders in a race of speed and distance — in an indoor setting that's not a velodrome. In this case, you'll be racing at the Atomic Cowboy (4140 Manchester Avenue). The cyclists ride bikes affixed to rollers and go crankshaft-to-crankshaft on a course displayed on an overhead video screen; your speed and the distance cycled are also displayed, so you know if you're pulling ahead or falling behind. Winners move on to race again, losers adjourn to the bar for drinks — so there are no losers. If you want to race, show up before 8 p.m. to register and bring $5. Spectators are free, but you can throw some money in the pot out of the kindness of your heart — proceeds go to St. Louis City Open Studio and Gallery. For more information, visit www.willcycleforcharity.com or www.stlsprints.blogspot.com, where results and video will be posted.
Wed., March 11, 2009