Jon Pratt - Pittsburgh, Photography, Biking

Nikon Coolpix AW100 waterproof camera

2012-01-08T07:27:00.003-05:00

I've spent a good amount of time with Nikon's waterproof, GPS, shock proof, freeze proof, dust proof durable camera and I like it. It doesn't take the best action shots, as expected...and I see some dust inside the lens, but overall it's held up pretty well to my lifestyle. Mud, dirt, salt water, rain, sweat, drops...my other point and shoots would've been dead by now. For sure.

Keyword link to all my Nikon AW100 photos and videos - http://www.jonpratt.com/keyword/aw100

Nikon Coolpix AW100 video sample from Longboat Key, Florida -

A few photos taken with the Nikon Coolpix AW100

seagull along longboat key, florida

cormorant on the beach in longboat key, florida

Jake at sunset on the beach

dolphins swimming off longboat key, florida

sailboat at sunset off longboat key, florida

downtown pittsburgh

the pittsburgh civic arena, stripped

2011 Pittsburgh Dirty Dozen Race

2011-11-27T07:27:00.003-05:00

Saturday was the perfect day for Pittsburgh's most iconic road race, the Dirty Dozen. 300 riders spent the day climbing 13 of Pittsburgh's steepest hills, including Canton Avenue which, at 37 degrees, is known as the world's steepest road. The race covers about 54 miles, mostly neutral riding between the hills, but in Pittsburgh this guarantees you're going to be climbing more than just the 13 timed hills. Danny Chew was on hand, of course, to see his baby get a record number of participants this year. You can check out Danny Chew's Dirty Dozen website here. I got to tag along in Gary and Kathleen's vehicle which was carrying the leaders' wheels and assorted other clothing dropped along the race course. Thanks!

A gallery of photographs from the 2011 Dirty Dozen in Pittsburgh - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Dirty-Dozen-Pgh-1126

Enjoy a couple of pictures from the Dirty Dozen -

Danny Chew addressing the racers at the 2011 Dirty Dozen

The rolling streets of Pittsburgh

Drying out the gloves at the first rest stop along the Dirty Dozen

Blowing away the field coming up Rialto Street, aka Pig Hill, during the Dirty Dozen in Pittsburgh

Cobblestones, cobblestones everywhere

Scott Bricker of Bike Pittsburgh taking a breather on top of Mount Washington

Canton Avenue claims another victim during the 2011 Dirty Dozen race in Pittsburgh

Don Powers mashing the singlespeed up the steepest street in the world, cobblestones of course

taking a nap on Canton Avenue during the 2011 Dirty Dozen

Stick, singlespeed champion of the 2011 Dirty Dozen in Pittsburgh

Another year of downhill mountain biking comes to a close at Seven Springs

2011-10-24T11:43:00.002-04:00

Sunday marked the last day of downhill mountain biking at Seven Springs bike park. As has become custom, a race followed by a train down 007 closed up the mountain. Great weather, and fantastic trail conditions greeted the riders...and the broken handed photographer.

Enjoy a gallery of photographs from the downhill practice runs and race http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Seven-Springs-Closing-Day-1023

A couple of pictures from the day at Seven Springs Bike Park

The last downhill race of the season at Seven Springs Bike Park

hitting the rock under the lift at seven springs bike park during the downhill mountain bike race

coming through helen's woods during the downhill race at seven springs bike park

seven springs downhill bike park in the fall

dave brunger motoring through helen's woods during the downhill race at seven springs bike park

heather hitting the rocks at seven springs bike park

exiting the rock garden at seven springs downhill bike park

A very muddy Month of Mud cyclcocross race in North Park

2011-10-03T08:17:00.000-04:00

There was another Month of Mud race this weekend...and this time, it was muddy, very! When I first heard that the course was going to be at the corner of Wildwood and Babcock, I thought it was going to suck for photos and for the racers. But who really cares about the racers, it's all about me and my photographic enjoyment, right? Well, I was wrong. The course looked super fun, and there were tons of vantage points for some great pictures at this month's Month of Mud race.

Here's a gallery of photographs from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/North-Park-Cyclocross-1002

A couple of pictures from the day -

There were a couple of trees that provided just the right light and color for some cool photographs at the Month of Mud cyclocross race in North Park

A few puddles at the North Park Cyclocross Month of Mud race to make things interesting

Fans braving the elements to cheer on the racers at the north park month of mud cyclocross race

Some spots required a dismount and a run

hitting the mud at the north park month of mud cyclocross race

Josh Patterson muscling through the mud at the month of mud cyclocross race in north park

Month of Mud, Brady's Run, 2011

2011-09-19T20:38:00.001-04:00

I hadn't taken any race photos for a while, so I decided I'd hit up the first Month of Mud race at Brady's Run on Sunday. Turned out to be pretty incredible weather, and a fun course. Not too much mud though.

Enjoy a gallery of photographs from first 2011 Month of Mud race, at Brady's Run - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Month-of-Mud-at-Bradys-0918

And check out some pictures from the Brady's Run Month of Mud Race -

Stunt It Man, Dirt Rag at the 2011 Month of Mud Race at Brady's Run in Beaver Falls, PA

2011 Month of Mud Race at Brady's Run, Beaver Valley, PA

Hitting the Descent of Death at the 2011 Month of Mud Race at Brady's Run, Beaver Valley, PA

Emily Walley on the Descent of Death at the 2011 Month of Mud Race at Brady's Run, Beaver Valley, PA

Justin Steiner showing the log pile who's boss at the 2011 Month of Mud Race at Brady's Run, Beaver Valley, PA

My first day...

2011-09-13T19:22:00.003-04:00

After a long, fun, long time without a "job" - I started a new chapter today. I am taking over the circulation department at Dirt Rag and Bicycle Times. It's definitely going to be a lot of work, but very rewarding and fun. Very excited.

What, you don't have a subscription to Bicycle Times or Dirt Rag?
I can fix that...

http://www.dirtragmag.com/subscriptions

2011 5th Annual Steel City Big Pour at Construction Junction

2011-09-10T18:26:00.002-04:00

Great time with friends at the 2011 5th Annual Steel City Big Pour at Construction Junction!

64 brewers, tons of food, fun exhibits...why didn't you go?

Photographs from the 2011 5th Annual Steel City Big Pour at Construction Junction
http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/5th-Annual-Steel-City-0910

and just in case you forgot what the 2010 4th Annual Steel City Big Pour at Construction Junction looked like...
http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/The-Big-Pour-0911

A few pictures from the 2011 5th Annual Steel City Big Pour at Construction Junction

The best way to arrive at the big pour? By bike, of course.

Steel City Big Pour Septembeer 10, 2011

panorama of the inside

Helltown Insidious India Pale Ale

East End Brewing, where the hops runneth over

Should I Drink That? The Pittsburgh Craft Beer Podcast.

Ground Zero, Freedom Tower Photographs

2011-09-09T20:25:00.000-04:00

A few pictures of ground zero in New York City, and the Freedom Tower construction site taken during this year's five boro bike tour trip.

http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Five-Boro-Ride-NYC-0501

ground zero, new york city

new construction at ground zero, new york city, freedom tower

freedom tower

freedom tower, ground zero, new york city

9.9.8 miss you

2011-09-08T23:24:00.002-04:00

Glassport to Boston, PA and back

2011-08-30T12:08:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I took my Civic down to Matta Motors in Glassport, PA to get some work done on it and have it inspected. Knowing it was going to take a few hours, I brought along my LeMond Poprad Cyclocross bike so I could do some exploring. Of course a camera came along as well, and I got some cool pictures of a couple of abandoned buildings along the way. One was in Glassport along the river, the others were along "The Loop" trail in McKeesport, PA. "The Loop" is an alternate route to the GAP bike trail that takes you up to Boston and passes some of the old businesses along the river. I poked into the Fort Pitt Steel Casting Plant, and the McKeesport Steel Foundry. On the way back you ride along the GAP bicycle trail and pass Dead Man's Hollow which has some more ruins along its trails. Of course I went in to investigate.

A gallery of photographs from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Glassport-to-Boston-Loop-0829

A few pictures from my adventures -

McKeesport Steel Foundry Inc.

The Heatmeter

the haunted ruins in Dead Man's Hollow, Allegheny Land Trust

Fort Pitt Steel Casting Plant along the McKeesport, Boston Loop on the GAP biking trail

Waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof Nikon Coolpix AW100 with sample pictures

2011-08-24T11:20:00.018-04:00

Nikon's new waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof camera may be the ticket for me. I'm tired of going through a point and shoot every 6 months or so...mountain biking and cameras don't get along very well. It's just too bad that it doesn't shoot raw or have manual controls... comes in blue, orange, black, white and camouflage.

Here are the specs and some sample images

Specifications

Type
Compact Digital Camera
Effective Pixels
16 million
Image Sensor
CMOS
Sensor Size
1/2.3 in.
Total Pixels
16.79 million (approx.)
Lens
5x optical zoom, NIKKOR ED glass lens
Lens Focal Length
5.0-25.0mm (angle of view equivalent to that of 28-140mm lens in 35mm [135] format)
Lens f/-number
f/3.9-4.8
Lens Construction
12 elements in 10 groups
Lens Zoom
5x
Digital Zoom
Up to 4x (angle of view equivalent to that of 560mm lens in 35mm [135] format)
Vibration Reduction
Lens-shift VR
Autofocus (AF)
Contrast-detect TTL AF
Autofocus (AF) Focus-area selection
Auto (9-area automatic selection), Center, Face priority, Manual with 99 focus areas, Subject tracking
Focus Range
[W]: Approx. 1 ft. 8 in. (50 cm.) to infinity
[T]: Approx. 3 ft. 4 in. (1 m.) to infinity
Macro close-up mode: [W]: Approx. 0.4 in. (1 cm.) to infinity
Focus Lock
Yes
Maximum Autofocus Areas/Points
99
Monitor Size
3.0 in. diagonal
Monitor Type
TFT-LCD
Monitor Resolution
460,000-dots
Monitor Frame coverage (shooting mode)
98% horizontal (Approx.)
98% vertical (Approx.)
Monitor Frame coverage (playback mode)
100% horizontal (Approx.)
Storage Media
SD memory card, SDHC memory card, SDXC memory card
Internal Memory
Approx. 83MB
Storage File System
DCF
EXIF 2.3
DPOF compliant
Storage File formats
Still pictures: JPEG
Audio files: WAV
Movies: MOV (Video:MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, Audio: AAC stereo)
Movie
Audio file format: AAC stereo
Movie file format: MPEG-4 AVC H.264
Voice Memo Function
Yes
Image Size (pixels)
4608 x 3456 (16M)
ISO Sensitivity
ISO 125-3200
Auto (auto gain 125-800)
Fixed range auto (ISO 125-400)
Lowest ISO Sensitivity
125
Highest ISO Sensitivity
3200
Exposure Metering
256-segment matrix, center-weighted
Exposure Control
Programmed auto exposure
Exposure compensation (-2.0 to +2.0 EV in steps of 1/3 EV)
motion detection
Exposure Modes
Programmed Auto
Scene Modes
Back Light, Beach, Black and White Copy, Close Up, Dusk/Dawn, Fireworks Show, Food, Landscape, Museum, Night Landscape, Night Portrait, Panorama, Party/Indoor, Pet Portrait, Portrait, Snow, Sports, Sunset, Underwater
In-Camera Image Editing
Crop, D-Lighting, Filter Effects, Glamour Retouch, Quick retouch, Skin softening, Small Pic
Exposure Compensation
± 2 EV in steps of 1/3
Exposure Lock
Yes
White Balance
Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Fluorescent, Incandescent, Manual
Shutter
Mechanical and CMOS electronic shutter
Shutter Speed
1/1500-1 sec. (when ISO sensitivity set to Auto)
4 sec. (when scene mode is set to Fireworks show)
Top Continuous Shooting Speed at full resolution
Up to 3 shots at approx. 7.1 frames per second
Continuous Shooting Options
Best Shot Selector, Continuous H, Continuous L, Multi-shot 16, Single
Aperture
Electronically-controlled ND filter (-2 AV) selection
Self-timer
Can be selected from 10 and 2 seconds duration
Built-in flash Range (approx.) (ISO sensitivity: Auto)
[W]: 0.3 to 3.5m (1ft. to 11ft.)
[T]: 0.5 to 2.2m (1ft. 8 in. to 7 ft. 2 in.)
Built-in Flash Control
TTL auto flash with monitor preflashes
Built-in Flash
Yes
Interface
Hi-speed USB
Interface Data transfer protocol
MTP ,PTP
Video Output
NTSC, PAL
HDMI Output
Can be selected from:
Auto, 480p, 720p, 1080i
I/O terminal
Audio/video (A/V) output
Digital I/O (USB)
HDMI Mini Connector (HDMI output)
Supported Languages
Arabic, Czech, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, French, German, Greek, Hindi, Hungarian, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Norwegian, Polish, Portugese (European and Brazilian), Romanian, Russian, Spanish, Swedish, Thai, Turkish, Ukranian, Vietnamese
Power Sources
One Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL12 (supplied)
Battery / Batteries
Rechargeable Li-ion Battery EN-EL12
Battery Life (shots per charge)
Still pictures*: Approx. 250 shots
*Based on Camera and Imaging Products Association (CIPA) standards for measuring the life of camera batteries. Measured at 23(-/+2)°C (73(-/+4)°F); zoom adjusted with each shot, flash fired with every other shot, image quality set to Normal, image size set to 4608 x 3456 (16M). Battery life may vary depending on shooting interval and length of time menus and images are displayed.
Tripod Socket
ISO 1222
Approx. Dimensions
Height: 2.6 in. (64.9mm)
Width: 4.4 in. (110.1mm)
Depth: 0.9 in. (22.8mm)
Approx. Weight
6.3 oz. (178g)
Operating environment
Temperature: -10 to +40°C (14 to 104°F ) for land use
Temperature: 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F) for underwater use
Supplied Accessories
- AN-CP23 Strap
- UC-E6 USB Cable
- EG-CP16 Audio/Video Cable
- EN-EL12 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
- MH-65 Battery Charger
- UR-E23 Filter Attachment
- NikonView NX 2 CD-ROM
- Reference Manual CD

Nikon Coolpix AW100 sample images, these are the original size, so click on them to view in their full resolution.

Exposure Time 1/1250, Aperture f/4, Focal Length 7.7mm (43mm in 35mm), ISO 125, 4608 x 3456

Exposure Time 1/800, Aperture f/4, Focal Length 5mm (28mm in 35mm), ISO 125, 4608 x 3456

Whistler, British Columbia

2011-08-19T22:11:00.000-04:00

I took a trip to the northwest last week. Flew into Seattle and drove up to Whistler, British Columbia to do some downhill mountain biking and hit a few north shore trails. We spent a little over a week on Easy Street, right outside the Whistler Village and got to ride the park for 4 days. Incredible. Fog, sun, no rain, perfect. We also got to hit a few trails outside the park: A River Runs Through It, Gargamel, Half Nelson, and the I-5 Colonnade in Seattle. Pretty cool trails, except for the Colonnade which was so dusty and dry it was a little disappointing. I know it's under an expressway, but seriously....water, calcium chloride, done.

A River Runs Through It was incredible, huge skinny lines (300+ ft), teeters on skinnies, drops through trees...great stuff. Gargamel was a hike and a half, especially since I decided it would be a good idea to take my D700 up and some lenses; gets a little heavy after a while. Half Nelson in Squamish was a two mile downhill pumptrack, listed as having 68 berms and 102 jumps and tabletops. Pretty sweet.

After Half Nelson we decided to drive then hike to the top of the mountain, and later learned they were having a cougar problem in the area....smart.

Enjoy a gallery of photographs from the trip - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Whistler-British-Columbia-0806

A few pictures from Whistler, Squamish, Seattle, etc

cyclecide hanging out in Georgetown, Washington

Peace Arch, United States, Canadian Border

TSA the new American religion

Jon on a bridge on A River Runs Through It, Whistler, British Columbia

On top of the world, Whistler, British Columbia, getting ready for a long downhill mountain bike run

The fog rolled in at Whistler Mountain Bike Park

Mark hitting a drop on Gargamel, Whistler, British Columbia

The view from Garibaldi above the Half Nelson Trail in Squamish, British Columbia

2011 Gravity East Series at Seven Springs July 24th

2011-07-24T19:40:00.008-04:00

I had a great time at Seven Springs Bike Park this past weekend. A bunch of my friends and I went up to ride, party, watch some downhill racing, and take some pictures of the 2011 Gravity East, GES, #4 downhill race. We got a few runs in on Saturday, then Darrin and I went off to take some photographs of everyone taking their practice runs. The race ran along the EC1 course, and is fast and flowy. There are some great sections for photos, and some not so great sections...I shot in both ;). Spent the night in the cabin townhouses near the swimming pool, had some beers, saw a couple skunks, and woke up early to enjoy the race.

We were cheering for some good friends in the race, and were happy to see them do well.

Heather Cowell placed second in Cat 2/3 Women with a 2:50.1
Roxy Racioppo placed 3rd in Cat 3 19-29 Men with a 2:30.36
Josh Patterson placed 12th in Cat 2 30-39 Men with a 2:33.82
Matt Kasprzyk placed 13th in Cat 2 30-39 Men with a 2:35.08
Ian Lupo placed 2nd in Cat 2 19-29 Men with a 2:13.45 (14th fastest on the mountain)
Heath Boedeker placed 1st in Cat 1 40+ Men with a 2:19.42
Justin Steiner placed 6th in Cat 1 19-29 Men with a 2:20.64
Rae Gandolf placed 4th in Pro Women with a 2:37.09 (which included a tumble in the rock garden)

Overall winner was Neko Mulally who placed 1st in the Pro Men with a 2:02.43
Great racing!

Gallery of photographs from the 2011 GES #4 Seven Springs downhill race - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-GES-7S-0724/

Pictures from the 2011 Gravity East Series at Seven Springs Bike Park

Heather Cowelll killing the rocks on EC1 during the 2011 GES race at Seven Springs Bike Park

2011 Gravity East Series, GES, #4, Seven Springs Pro Men Results. First - Neko Mulally, Second - Justin Gregory, Third - Leland O'Conner, Fourth - Logan Mulally, Fifth - Jason Scheiding

2011 Gravity East Series, GES, #4, Seven Springs Pro Women Results. First - Anne Galyean, Second - Lauren Daney, Third - Becky Gardner, Fourth - A. Rae Gandolf, Fifth - Hillary Elger

Vacation on Damariscotta Lake, Maine

2011-07-22T12:14:00.001-04:00

I was able to get up to our family cottage on Damariscotta, Maine last week for a little rest and relaxation. I've been fortunate enough to have spent many a summer in the cool waters of the lake, swimming, fishing, sailing, motor boating, among other things. Always a good time, and the weather was pretty much perfect.

Gallery of photographs from Damariscotta Lake, Maine - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Damariscotta-Maine-0712

A couple of pictures from Damariscotta Lake, Maine

swimming out the the rock in the middle of damariscotta lake is a favorite pastime

playing on the dock in Maine

loons at sunset on damariscotta lake, maine

dragonfly exiting its skin, exuvia, on the dock in damariscotta, maine

moonrise over shaw's wharf in new harbor, maine

Angus modeling the newest sweater from Seacolors, Meadowcroft Farms, one of a kind, hand dyed and loomed in Maine

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, Bristol, Maine

Alewives use the fish ladder at damariscotta mills to spawn

I sailed the larger sailboat along the Maine coast for a month, sleeping on islands, the boat, anywhere I could find. fun. Camp Chewonki, Wiscasset, Maine

Grand Opening of the Skills Area at North Park

2011-07-11T14:24:00.001-04:00

There was a huge turnout for the grand opening of the skills park in North Park on Sunday. OTB, Dirt Rag, Pro Bikes, Mad Mex, the Parks Department, REI, Seven Springs Bike Park, and PTAG all came out to show their support for the first public, approved, freeride and skills park in Pennsylvania (as far as I know). The North Park Freeride Crew has invested over 2000 man hours building, shaping, and fine-tuning the jumps, skinnies, and drops so that it could be opened in time for the summer riding season. There are a few minor finishing touches, and the possibility of a more advanced jump line going in...but that will be for another day. And don't forget about the Dr J trail, just a few pedal strokes away, that started it all. I've spent a good bit of time hanging out with a great bunch of people, building, riding, and bs'ing around this trail system, and now it's officially open to the public. Enjoy.

A gallery of photographs from the north park skills area grand opening party - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/North-Park-Skills-Park-0710/

A few pictures from the skills park grand opening at North Park -

Philip Williams doing a 360 off the third jump at the north park skills area during the grand opening celebration

$10,000 REI Conservation Grant for PTAG, Pittsburgh Trails Advocacy Group

Andrew G. Baechle, director of the Parks Dept, says a few words before cutting the ribbon to open the skills park the the public

Bikes were flying around the beginner jump line at the skills park in North Park

Hitting the line during the jump competition at the skills park in north park

the skinny section of the north park skills park was an instant hit among all the bikers

Mark Kinneer getting some air off the jump line at the skills park in north park

Lots of cute kids biking and running around during the north park skills park grand opening celebration

good to see, young girls tearing up the newly opened jump line in the north park skills area

letting it all hang out on the north park skills park jump line

The Step-Up was opened in the Dr J Skills Park last night, and...

2011-07-01T13:22:00.000-04:00

...it was glorious. For a couple of hours last night we rode the "beginner" jump line at the Dr J Skills Park in North Park, along with the drop line, and skinny line. All good. But as the afternoon became evening, Jay Kirk unlocked the step-up and the madness began. Run after run, everyone getting their feel for the almost completed beginner jump line in North Park. There were a few cross country mountain bikes, a ton of dirt jumpers, a few BMX bikes, and even a few downhill rigs taking flight last night. The official grand opening for the Dr J Skills Park is July 10th at noon. Food, beverages, new coverage...going to be fun. Come on out.

Gallery of photographs from a night of jumping at the Dr J Skills Park in North Park - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Dr-J-Skills-Park-0630

A few pictures of bikes flying through the air at the Dr J Skills Park -

Don Watt getting a little air on the beginner jump line at the Dr J Skills Park in North Park.

Ian Lupo giving the jumps some rocky mountain flatline three love

Tim Droschak flying around the Dr J Skills Park beginner jump line

Justin Scheifflee maneuvering along one of the advanced skinnies in the Dr J Skills Park at North Park

The step-up was unlocked, and the fun began

getting some air off the step-up in the Dr J Skills Park at North Park

the riding went late into the night at the Dr J Skills Park

Dr J Skills Park Build Day

2011-06-27T08:56:00.000-04:00

The Dr J Skills Park in North Park is set open to the public on July 10th, so we needed to get most of the skinnies and jump lines completed yesterday. We did, thanks to a huge group of volunteers working from 9 a.m. until the tools were put away at 7 p.m. There are now 3 new skinny lines, and a giant step up beginner line. A day of rain, follow by a few days of sun and the jump line should be concrete.

A few of us will be going back into the Dr J Skills Park over the next week, fine tuning, installing one more skinny, building a final berm, and other random task so it can be finished by the 10th. It's really turning out to be a great section of trail, people are going to LOVE it.

Gallery of photographs from the Dr J Skills Park build in North Park - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Dr-J-Skill-Park-Build-Day-0626

A few pictures from the Dr J Skills Park build in North Park -

A few pieces of Mark and Don's skinny

Dr J Skills Park, a place for the whole family

Darrin trying out the layout of his skinny creation at the Dr J Skills Area in North Park

Spencer making sure the jump line is proper at the Dr J Skills Park, Pittsburgh

Jay working the lip on the beginner jump line at the Dr J Skills Park

Jarrod Bunk getting some on the jump line at the Dr J Skills Park in North Park

10th Annual Ohiopyle Beer and Gear Festival, 2011

2011-06-19T21:02:00.003-04:00

Mike and I rode from the Point to Ohiopyle this weekend for the Wilderness Voyageurs' 10th Annual Beer and Gear Festival. Fortunately this coincided with the opening of the new GAP trail connection in Duquesne, Pennsylvania...which is pretty damn nice. We took our time and had an enjoyable trip up to Round Bottom Campground at Slush Run where we spent Friday night camping under the stars and rain. A number of animals kept us awake throughout the night, one which sounded like it probably died 15 feet away from my hammock, but I saw no remnants Saturday morning. A nice short pedal up to Connellsville from there, where we met up with Don along the way and he joined for the ride into Ohiopyle. The festival was loads of fun, as always...I think Fat Heads wins with their IPA this time. A nice floral, tasty offering. Great weekend.

A gallery of photographs from the Beer and Gear Festival at Ohiopyle - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Beer-and-Gear-0618

A few pictures from the 10th Anniversary of the Beer and Gear Festival at Ohiopyle -

The new Mon Wharf bike path is open to the Point

The Riverton bridge going into McKeesport

we entertained ourselves while it rained, Sly Fox IPA

round bottom camping area at slush run, gap trail, youghiogheny river

10th Anniversary of the Beer and Gear Festival

The crowds enjoy some great beers at the Ohiopyle Beer and Gear Festival

Downhill Mountain Biking at Seven Springs Bike Park

2011-06-14T07:11:00.000-04:00

Another fun day at Seven Springs Bike Park was had, even if it rained a bit. Darrin and I met Jamie at 11 and got a few runs in before a torrential downpour that lasted about 30 minutes. Bill, Jay and Jon were huddled in the parking lot and joined us as soon as the rain let up. The first run down Rock N Roll was a splash-fest and the entire mountain was slick and slow for the next hour or so. As soon as the sun came out and the wind picked up, things started getting good and tacky. In the end the runs were fast and fun, the day was a success.

Gallery of photographs from seven springs bike park - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Seven-Springs-Downhill-0612

A few pictures from downhill mountain biking at seven springs bike park -

the rain came and tried to wash our fun away

north shore micro-climate at seven springs

a little muddy after the first post rain run

the lo-pan drop at seven springs bike park

new feature being installed at seven springs bike park

the bike wash was a necessity after a day in the mud

2011 Opening Day for Downhill at Seven Springs Bike Park

2011-05-29T21:21:00.000-04:00

Saturday was opening day at Seven Springs' Downhill Bike Park. Darrin and I went up early and parked at the top of the world, so we could hang out a bit then join the mega-train first run down the mountain...which never materialized. We ended up being the second group to test out the work that had been put into the runs over the last few weeks. Everything was pretty good, just some soft spots here and there because of all the rain. Most notably the two jumps and berm on 007 at the top, and the jumps at the bottom of the runs near the lift. The crew worked on them, and when the sun came out, and the wind started blowing, things got a little better. By the end of the day, besides some ruts in the previously wet lines, the mountain was in great condition. Can't wait for many more downhill runs at Seven Springs this year!

Gallery of photographs from 2011 opening day at Seven Springs - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Opening-Day-Seven-Springs

A few pictures from opening day at Seven Springs downhill bike park -

there was still snow on the ground at seven springs

we had a great group out for 2011's opening day at the seven springs bike park

transition blindside at the top of the world

Jamie checking out the babes in the swimming pool

enjoying a beer and the view

Pictures from the 2011 Pedal Pittsburgh ride

2011-05-22T20:16:00.006-04:00

Spent a great day out with team OTB/East End Brewing/MATT Machine on the streets of Pittsburgh for the 2011 Pedal Pittsburgh ride. The largest part of the group left at 8:30 and most did the 50 mile offering. A few souls did the 35 mile loop, and DeeDee Grace and I did the 60 mile course which took us up and down Mount Washington and Arlington Heights. Fun! Thanks to everyone who joined and organized today.

A gallery of photographs from the 2011 Pedal Pittsburgh ride - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Pedal-Pittsburgh-0522

A few pictures from the 2011 Pedal Pittsburgh ride -

Team OTB/East End Brewing/MATT Machine shirts

Karen hitting up the streets on the North Side during 2011 Pedal Pittsburgh

Regrouping at the Heinz Lofts

Kat Martin rockin the 50 mile route with her singlespeed and short shorts

I'll take two cold beers right about now.

panoramic view from grandview park

Sycamore, weeeeeee 2011 Pedal Pittsburgh

Craft Beer School with Oskar Blues Brewery

2011-05-18T08:41:00.001-04:00

Dale Katechis from Oskar Blues Brewery came into Pittsburgh to host Craft Beer School at the Cabaret at Theater Square downtown last night. Mike, Marty and I had a bite to eat at OTB and headed over for some good talk and great beer with Dale, Matt and Tony. The event was a sellout, with 250 craft beer lovers showing up to get some love from Oskar Blues. The Cabaret at Theater Square is pretty cool and features a nice bar in the entryway where we enjoyed some blues while they set up the room. The stage, by the way, was still set up for some play that looked like a 1950s high school reunion. It added just the right amount of class to the evening.

Gallery of photographs from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Beer-School-Oskar-Blues-0517

A few pictures from the night -

Dale Katechis from Oskar Blues Brewery at Cabaret at Theater Square downtown

Oskar Blues Mama's Little Yella Pils

Check out the bottom of your Oskar Blues cans for special messages from the canning team

Dale, Matt and Tony talking about what makes cans of Oskar Blues beer so good.

2011 East End Brewing Pedal Pale Ale Keg Ride

2011-05-09T07:26:00.000-04:00

This past weekend featured the 7th annual installment of the Pedal Pale Ale keg ride. The ride starts at East End Brewing's brewery and meanders through the streets of Pittsburgh, arriving an hour or two later at a mystery destination where the first keg of pedal pale ale is tapped. It's a pretty slow ride because the leaders are all towing full kegs of pedal pale ale behind their bicycles. Scott Smith, the head brewer at East End Brewing, was hoping for 1000 cyclists to join him this year; I think there were far less...no numbers yet, but my guess is 600. The weather didn't look like it was going to cooperate and rained on us until the start of the ride, but cleared up quickly!

Oh and the mystery tap spot? Penn Brewery! Fun!

Gallery of photographs from the Pedal Pale Ale keg ride - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Pedal-Pale-Ale-Ride-0507

A few pictures from East End Brewing's 2011 Pedal Pale Ale keg ride -

the proper attire is of utmost importance

we had our own little ride down from my place to the brewery

east end brewing took over the streets of pittsburgh today

more picture opportunities on the 2011 east end brewing pedal pale ale ride

Alex Talbot and Terry McCourt provide the tunes at the Penn Brewery, the Pedal Pale Ale mystery destination.

panoramic photograph of the crowd at Penn Brewery

2011 NYC Five Boro Bike Tour Pictures

2011-05-03T10:46:00.004-04:00

Mike, Jackie, Joe, Janet, Tom and I went up to New York City to ride in the 2011 5 Boro Bike Ride this past weekend. We met up with Erin and Mike on Saturday and rode with them on Sunday during the official ride. Always a good weekend, if you haven't done it...you should.

I took a few photos, and I'm sure I'll post some more pictures over the next few days from the 5 Boro Ride. For now enjoy...

Gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Five-Boro-Ride-NYC-0501

A couple of photographs from the 2011 NYC Five Boro Bike Tour -

Dutch Bikes are cool

A mass of people on the Brooklyn Bridge

new construction at ground zero, new york city

Seth Gernot reading a Bicycle Times Magazine at the start of the 2011 New York City Five Boro Bike Tour

Bicycling in New York City is a wonderful thing

Salt Lake City, Moab, Fruita and Grand Junction....Mountain Biking Bliss

2011-04-26T08:02:00.001-04:00

This past week I was fortunate enough to spend few days mountain biking in Utah and Colorado. Kirk and I flew into Salt Lake City, Utah and were greeted by Justin and Matt at the airport. Headed over to Justin's pad and built up our all-mountain bikes. Loaded them up and drove down close to Moab, Utah. Woke up early, hit up the Pipe Dream trail in the hills of Moab, Utah. Checked into the Inca Inn and went out to the Amasa Back trail in Moab, Utah. Saw some Jeeps crawling away during Jeep Week and ran into a sandstorm. Came down Jackson, found some water blocking our path, rode back to town. Next day, woke up, jumped on the Poison Spider shuttle van, got dropped at the LPS parking lot, rode Porcupine Rim Trail. Headed down to Fruita, Colorado the next day and rode Zippity Do Dah, which was awesome! Over to Grand Junction, Colorado then back to Salt Lake City and home. Oh and while we were in Moab, Utah we checked out Arches National Park at sundown....fun!

Gallery from the week - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/SLC-Moab-Colorado-0420

Some shots -

A killer view from the Amasa Back Trailhead

Some Jeeps trying to climb out of Amasa Back during Jeep Week in Moab, Utah

checking out Castle Valley from the porcupine rim trail in Moab, Utah

Kirk ponders the Notch on the Porcupine Rim Trail in Moab, Utah

hanging out with the Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, Moab, Utah

Kirk looking over the Zippity Do Dah trail in Fruita, Colorado

Matt Palilla pimpin' Atomga Groove Alliance at Naggy McGee's Irish Pub, Grand Junction, Colorado

2011 Steel City Showdown Crit Race in Downtown Pittsburgh

2011-04-18T08:16:00.000-04:00

I spent a cold, windy day taking pictures of, and enjoying, the 2011 Steel City Showdown yesterday. The Steel City Showdown is a criterium (crit) race along four roads in downtown Pittsburgh. Starting on Sixth Street, next to PNC park, it turned right on East General Robinson Street, right again on Seventh Street, over the Seventh Street Bridge, right on Fort Duquesne Boulevard, then right again on Seventh Street, heads over the Roberto Clemente Bridge, and ended back in front of PNC Park. Think NASCAR, in the opposite direction, and less beer.

I did get a chance to see how a lensbaby composer works in a race atmosphere. I think with a bit more practice I could get some pretty cool shots, I think I got a few great ones...just a lot of crap too.

Enjoy a gallery of photographs from the Steel City Showdown - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-Steel-City-Showdown-0417

And here are some pictures from the race -

Robert and Mary Lynn out working a corner at the 2011 Steel City Showdown a Criterium in downtown Pittsburgh

Warming up on, and cleaning up, the Seventh Street Bridge in Pittsburgh

Juniors at the 2011 Steel City Showdown get their marching orders

taking the corner at East General Robinson Street next to PNC park

Warming up coffee and hot chocolate by bike power

Sarah Anne Clarke holding down the fort at the OTB tent during the 2011 Steel City Showdown

A postcard for mom from the 2011 Steel City Showdown

Some lensbaby composer goodness from the downtown Pittsburgh bike race

Stephanie Swan on the podium at the 2011 Steel City Showdown

post kids race at the 2011 Steel City Showdown

A Ride to the Union Railroad Rail Yard near Kennywood

2011-04-14T12:12:00.000-04:00

Mike and I did a short ride down to the old Union Railroad rail yard near Kennywood and Duquesne, Pennsylvania last night. I rode down and met him at the Lowe's Home Improvement store at the Waterfront. From there we took the new trail that goes under the Rankin Bridge towards Duquesne. It's not finished yet, and the bridges that cross the train tracks aren't really open...but we made do. I love exploring on my bike, you get to see so much more of what's around you then you could ever by car.

Gallery from the ride - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Urban-to-Union-Railroad-0413

Some shots along the way -

in honor of the employees of US Steel Homestead

Niles Bement Pond Co, Pond Works, Plainfield NJ, USA machine in the first building along the waterfront path

Mike's bike on one of the new bridges crossing the railroad tracks by the rankin bridge

Welcome to the digital age

clean out at the union railroad yard in Duquesne, Pennsylvania

great food at blue dust in homestead

2011 Bike New York Five Boro Bike Tour

2011-04-09T18:57:00.000-04:00

All ready for the 2011 Bike New York Five Boro Bike Tour here....

Hops sports her 2011 Bike New York Five Boro Bike Tour vest

Barley sports his 2011 Bike New York Five Boro Bike Tour vest

My Cats

2011-04-05T07:56:00.004-04:00

hops

Date Taken:	2011-04-04 21:43:00
Camera:	NIKON CORPORATION NIKON D700
Exposure Time:	0.025s (1/40)
Aperture:	f/1.4
ISO:	1250
Focal Length:	85mm

barley

Date Taken:	2011-04-05 11:27:49
Camera:	NIKON CORPORATION NIKON D700
Exposure Time:	0.02s (1/50)
Aperture:	f/1.4
ISO:	1250
Focal Length:	85mm

An urban ride in Pittsburgh with the boys.

2011-04-04T08:32:00.000-04:00

The trails are basically mud right now, and we so needed a ride..solution? An urban ride around Pittsburgh. It's pretty cool how much of Pittsburgh you can see on a bike, without going on a road. Mike and I rode down from my place in Regent Square and met up with Bill Kirk and Mark Kinneer at the jail trail lot. From there we did a little exploring in downtown and headed over to the Heinz lofts to meet Bill Reddy who was riding down from Etna along the North Shore trail. Hit up the area around Heinz field and PNC park, Station Square, and the Southside. Good day!!!

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Urban-0403

Some pictures from the day -

there's just so much hurt here inside me, I wish it would just go away

ran into Jerry Montesano in the jail trail lot

hanging out at heinz field

dale's pale ale

A Walk In The Park

2011-03-29T21:56:00.002-04:00

The sun was out and the temperature edged past 40 degrees so I had to get out an investigate some spots in Frick Park that I had been neglecting. Today's tools were going to be my Nikkor 85mm f/1.4 and my Light Craft Workshop Fader ND adjustable ND filter, but the bayonet hood wouldn't unscrew so I went without the ND filter. Also along for the walk was my trusty Nikkor 50mm f/1.8, the cheapest lens I own...and one of the most fun.

Gallery of shots from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Frick-Park-0329

A few photographs from my Frick Park outing -

skin peeling, 85mm f/1.4

the precipice, 85mm f/1.4

the entrance, 85mm f/1.4

jagged, 50mm f/2.8

barbed wire, 50mm f/1.8

Roaring Run, Apollo, Pennsylvania: Lots of miles, lots of crashes, one lifeflight ride

2011-03-21T19:52:00.004-04:00

Roaring Run in Apollo, PA was definitely the place to be yesterday. A group of 15 of us showed up at 11 a.m. ready to ride. I was pretty sure Christopher Beech, from Thick Bikes, and his group were coming out at some point so I figured we'd probably run into them on trail; which we did. Surprisingly Karen Brooks was there with her pups and a few other fellow riders. Off they went and Justin, Matt and Josh from Dirt Rag showed up 10 minutes later. I guess there were at least 30 people mountain biking at Roaring Run from the Pittsburgh area. Good stuff. Oh and we ran into a couple more dogs in the parking lot. Dogs getting ready for some sled training on the gravel path.

Turned out to be a great day, except an on-trail accident that sent Don Olson flying back to Presby in the LifeFlight helicopter. Surgery last night, rod in his right femur, he's good to go. Hope he'll be back before the entire season is over. Heal up Don! I am thankful, and I'm sure Don is, for all the emergency workers; fire, emt, paramedics, and assorted do-gooders that helped us get Don stabilized and out of the woods.

Gallery of photographs from our excursion in Roaring Run - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/apollo-0320

Some pictures from the day -

pawtrekker.com sled and some iditarod dogs ready for a workout

Justin Steiner's new Jeff Jones bike

Mike Jezek hitting the logs at apollo

big rocks up here

Don Olson had a little accident at Apollo,PA

Cheers Don, thanks for the Victory Yakima Glory Ale

Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike, Breezewood PA

2011-03-14T08:57:00.001-04:00

Mike and I went out and road the abandoned Pennsylvania turnpike trail near Breezewood yesterday, known also as the Pike 2 Bike trail. The entire ride ended up being a little over 17 miles out and back and featured some really pretty scenery off to the sides of the road and some very cool tunnels to explore. The road surface was pretty good and only a few small sections were covered in gravel. There were a few singletrack trails off to the sides, and some lightly used ATV trails, might be fun to explore off-road as well.

Good times, I'd recommend taking a look if you're in the area.

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Abandoned-PA-Turnpike-0313

Some photographs from the Abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike -

This must have been made for clown cars

the death gear

turbines above the tunnel

The surface of the abandoned Pennsylvania turnpike was in pretty good shape

Mike posing inside an abandoned Pennsylvania turnpike tunnel

some blair witch crap started going on

2011 NAHBS North American Handmade Bicycle Show, Austin, Texas

2011-03-02T22:30:00.000-05:00

For the past week I was fortunate enough to be in Austin, Texas with the Dirt Rag and Bicycle Times crew for 2011 NAHBS. I spent a lot of time during the show signing up people for subscriptions, selling schwag, and talking to the thousands of people that poured through the Austin Convention Center to check out all the cool bikes. But, every once in a while I got to go venture onto the floor and see some incredible works of art. When we weren't at the show, we were either eating, drinking, exploring, or shooting layouts for Dirt Rag and Bicycle Times. I was able to spend some time hanging out with the guys at Alchemy Bicycles in Austin, and at the Yellow Bike Project right outside the city. Very cool.

It was a great trip, with some good friends...and I met a lot of new, interesting people along the way.

Gallery of photographs from 2011 NAHBS in Austin, Texas - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/2011-NAHBS-Austin-Texas-0221

A few pictures from my week in Austin -

NASCAR bitches

we found a cool rock outcrop off the trail in Austin

Royce McCoy Ghost Bike in Austin, Texas

Uncle Billy's Brew & Cue Hop Zombie IPA

Handmade Alchemy bicycle getting a bath in Austin

Night ride to the capital building of Texas

Tread Austin by Bethany Bauman at the Yellow Bike Project in Austin, Texas

Peacock Groove at the 2011 North American Handmade Bicycle Show, Austin, Texas

Iron City Bikes' Black and Gold Sprints at OTB

2011-02-20T11:41:00.001-05:00

Last night I hung out at OTB on the Southside to watch Iron City Bikes' Snowed In, Return of the Yeti- Black and Gold Sprints. Always fun to watch guys and girls try to best each other on the rollers. Since it's a bar, it's pretty dark in the back so it makes it a challenge to get great photos without using a flash. I try not to use the flash whenever possible, I'd rather capture the natural lighting available. So my Nikkor 85m f/1.4 and 50mm f/1.8 tend to be my go-to lenses in these situations. Some of these came out pretty well, especially considering the riders are racing the bikes for about 8-9 seconds at a time.

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/OTB-Black-and-Gold-Sprints-219

Some photographs from the sprints -

all hands on deck

MC King Ted

determination

and win

video of Erok and Seth plus

BELLA Ball at OTB on the Southside

2011-02-18T15:46:00.002-05:00

The Pittsburgh BELLAs had a little shindig to raise money for the fight against Leukemia & Lymphoma at OTB Bicycle Cafe and fun was had by all. A little too much fun was had by yours truly. Prizes galore, eats, beers, and lots and lots of dancing. If you didn't go, you missed a good one.

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/OTB-Bella-Ball-0217

Some photographs -

OTB was packed

I kept my coupon, because I didn't win jack

Sarah kept my whistle wet all night, thanks!

Some video from the night

OTB Super Bowl XVL

2011-02-09T13:37:00.001-05:00

A few of us watched the Super Bowl at OTB on the southside this past weekend. Even though the Pittsburgh Steelers lost, we had a great time. It got packed enough that Mike had to close the doors...good to see! Afterward we walked around Carson Street, which was closed to traffic, and had a ton of cops ready for trouble. As far as I could see, it was unnecessary....calm, cool and collected.

Gallery of photographs from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Super-Bowl-XLV-at-OTB-0206

Some individual shots -

OTB was packed

celebration

Southside OTB was black and gold

someone lost their keys

Ride The Divide Movie, Southside Works Cinema and OTB

2011-02-04T17:11:00.000-05:00

A few of us spent last evening hanging out at OTB on the Southside, and viewing the movie Ride The Divide. The movie was cool, but a tad boring in places....seemed like they could have spent a little bit more effort chronicling more than 3 racers. I was kind of puzzled that the documentary team complained that they couldn't find the riders sometimes, but they were all wearing SPOT locators that can be viewed on a map readily available online, which was seen throughout the movie when the bikers were checking on each other. Oh well....good nonetheless, and OTB is always fun.

Gallery from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Ride-The-Divide-Movie-0203

Some photographs -

The group gathers at OTB for a little pre-movie dinner and drinks

Cuing up the movie, Ride The Divide, at Pittsburgh's Southside Works Cinema

Natasha and Kirk at OTB

Ray's Indoor Mountain Bike Park, Cleveland, Ohio

2011-01-26T12:12:00.001-05:00

Monday we went up to Ray's Indoor Mountain Bike Park in Cleveland Ohio. It was pretty much completely empty when we arrived and I think there were maybe 10-15 other people there throughout the day...so we got to play in all the areas that are usually busy with people who know what they are doing. The Troy Lee Designs Rhythm Room, and the expert jump line. Good times.

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Rays-1-24/

Some photographs -

trucker going up to rays..maybe

Dan Spurk hitting up the jumps in the Troy Lee Designs Rhythm Room at Rays Indoor Mountain Bike Park in Cleveland Ohio

Don Watt on the Red Bull wall at Rays Bike Park in Cleveland

Mark Kinneer hitting the intermediate line in the Troy Lee Rhythm Room at Rays Indoor Bike Park in Cleveland

Mark Kinneer going high on the Red Bull wall at Rays Indoor Bike Park in Cleveland Ohio

For Sale 2011 black Fox Racing Shox Fork 36 Float 160 R NEW

2011-01-20T19:18:00.001-05:00

2011 black Fox 36 Float 160 R - $500
NEW, never ridden, *cut steerer tube*
1.5 tapered steerer tube, cut to 8 3/8"

now listed on ebay http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270695575018

WEIGHT (1 1/8" steerer)
- 4.52 lb / 2.05 kg

TRAVEL
- 6.3 inches / 160 mm

ADJUSTMENTS EXTERNAL
- Air spring pressure
- Rebound

INTERNAL
Travel is adjustable down to 100 mm in 10 mm increments

DAMPER
Open bath

STANCHIONS
Hard Anodized

LOWER LEG
- 20QR thru axle system,
Post style disc brake mounting

SPRING
Air

FORK COLOR
Black

INTENDED USE
DH, FR, AM

$500, sells for $815 online

http://www.foxracingshox.com/bike/11/forks/36_FLOAT/160_R

FS: Manitou 4 Way Swinger Coil, New Rebuild 7.75 x 2.25, 350lb spring

2011-01-12T11:22:00.003-05:00

Manitou 4 Way Swinger Coil For Sale
Taken off a '06 Heckler
Fresh rebuild from Suspension Experts in North Carolina (1 ride on it, seriously) - http://www.mtbsuspensionexperts.com/
7.75" X 2.25" 350lb spring
includes Manitou No Tools Spv Volume Adjuster
http://www.cambriabike.com/shopexd.asp?Item=100011210

for sale on eBay - http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270692109276

eBay - Russian Pittsburgh Penguins Sweatshirt XL

2011-01-10T13:04:00.000-05:00

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270691144338
auction ends Jan 15th @ 10:01:13 PST - go bid!

Photos from a Longboat Key, Florida, New Year

2011-01-08T21:31:00.000-05:00

I got to spend the New Year's weekend in Longboat Key, Florida, with my sister and her family. Great weather and a great break from the winter wonderland we call Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. We stayed in a cottage that sits right on the beach, Rolling Waves Cottages. A few days on the beach, and a great day walking around St Armand's Circle in Sarasota, and the Mote Aquarium and Marine Laboratory.

Gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2011/Longboat-Key-Florida-0101

A few pictures -

long exposure of longboat key beach

Angus and Jake hit the cold water

a perfect day on the beach

A beautiful sunset on the beaches of Longboat Key, Florida

Ray's Indoor Mountain Bike Park, Cleveland, Ohio

2010-12-29T12:12:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Brunger, Spurk and I drove out to Ray's Indoor Mountain Bike Park in Cleveland to do some riding with a group of friends from Pittsburgh. A couple of Reddys, Watts, Tierneys, Klevenses joined in with a Brooks, Lipinski, Pfaeffle, Lupo, Rosengarth, Kinneer, Leimkuehler, Gernot, Bunk, Burch, and a Brennan for a killer time hitting the jumps and riding the skinnies. I think I got everyone in that list...

There was a pretty good crowd of people because of the holiday season, but plenty of room to hang out, b.s. and ride some cool lines. Ray's is too much fun, I think we need one in the Strip District!

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/rays-1228/

A couple of photographs from Ray's

Bikes packed in the Vanagon for the trip up to Rays Indoor Mountain Bike Park in Cleveland

Spencer hitting the teeter totter at Rays

Brunger getting some air on the jumps at Rays Indoor Mountain Bike Park Cleveland

Bridget taking a spill in the Rhythm Room at Rays

Luchita's awesome Mexican food in Cleveland

2010 Dirt Rag Punk Bike Enduro was a success!

2010-12-06T11:17:00.002-05:00

Mud, snow, cold, beer, bikes, punks, stages....everything you need for a great Punk Bike Enduro was had yesterday. Karl Rosengarth did an incredible job organizing and keeping everything flowing this year. No long waits between stages, and smiles all around. I felt like crap for some reason but still had a blast...thanks to everyone involved!

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/2010-Punk-Bike-Enduro-1205

some photographs from the 2010 punk bike enduro -

Eric Dobratz, the 2010 Dirt Rag Punk Bike Enduro Bike Rodeo Winner

Maurice Tierney rallying the troops

Timothy Zimmerman got a taste of his first Punk Bike Enduro, and loved it

William Kirk fuels up for the ride, and experiences some dribble

Follow the beer monkey and you won't get lost

Nikon Nikkor 16mm f/2.8 AF Fisheye fun

2010-11-23T18:31:00.001-05:00

I rented two lenses from borrowlenses.com to check them out and see if either would work well for the Dirty Dozen race this coming weekend. I rented a Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II AF-S Nikkor Zoom Lens and a Nikon 16mm f/2.8 AF Fisheye Nikkor lens. Yesterday I took the 16mm fisheye out in Frick and Homewood Cemetery to see what it's all about. Took a little while to really get the feel for the kinds of shots which would be perfect for the lens, but I figured it out.

photographs from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-cemetery-1122

a couple of shots -

leaves in Frick Park

Love Headstone Homewood Cemetery

Cross Headstone Homewood Cemetery

2010 Pittsburgh Light Up Night Bicycle Ride

2010-11-21T12:24:00.001-05:00

Friday was light up night in Pittsburgh again, which called for Barry's annual bike ride from Golden Triangle Bike Rental to the West End Overlook to watch the fireworks. There was a nice turnout and we headed out about 8PM across the hot metal street bridge, down through station square, and up a big hill to the west end overlook. After hanging out on top for a couple hours we headed over to the North Side and had a couple beers and food at the Rivertowne Inn on the North Shore. Great night as always!

Gallery of Photographs from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Pittsburgh-Light-Up-Night-1119

A few photos -

cool sky in the jail trail parking lot

Don's world famous Glug

2010 Light Up Night Pittsburgh

hanging out at the west end overlook for 2010 light up night in Pittsburgh

Dark Horse Brewing at OTB Beer Club

2010-11-17T22:10:00.000-05:00

Monday was another meeting of the OTB beer club, this time we were blessed with some great beers from Dark Horse Brewing out of Michigan. Unfortunately nobody from the brewery made it down, so Marty hooked us up with a few selections from their stables. Crooked Tree IPA, Raspberry Ale, Black Bier Ale Reserve Special and Oatmeal Stout Ale. I think the Dark Horse Crooked Tree IPA and the Oatmeal Stout were my favorites.

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Beer-Club-OTB-1115

Some photographs -

I Do It For The Hood, Duck Hollow Fishing Pier

East End Brewing, Snow Melt

Dark Horse Brewing Company Crooked Tree IPA

OTB Beer Club

Marilla Cyclocross race in Morgantown, West Virginia

2010-11-01T08:43:00.001-04:00

Saturday I went to Morgantown, West Virginia to take some photographs at the Marilla Cyclocross race. The lighting was great early on but degraded pretty quickly as the races heated up. Wish it would've been a little more overcast and muddy, but I still had a good time shooting. Plus, some hearty souls raced in costume...being Halloween weekend and all.

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Marilla-Cyclocross-1030

some photos -

Michelle Johnson, aka the Love Bug

jumping the cyclocross barriers

hot dog!

Gunnar Shogren hurdles the cyclocross barriers at the Marilla Cyclocross race in Morgantown, West Virginia

Josh Matta sporting his sweet Thick Bikes jersey and tearing up the Marilla Cyclocross course

working hard to get up the hill at the Marilla Cyclocross race

A Bob Jackson bike taking a breather during the race

An evening mountain bike ride at Laurel Mountain

2010-10-28T14:44:00.000-04:00

Dr John, Don and I ventured over to Forbes State Forest for a little evening ride through the rocks of Laurel Mountain last night. The weather was cool, skies were clear, and there were leaves covering every inch of the trails making for a slightly more difficult ride than normal. There's really nothing like Laurel, just continuous fun through rocks, trees, and natural tunnels two to three times over your head. Awesome place.

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Laurel-Mountain-1027

Some cool photographs -

sun going down

cool bog right off the lot at Laurel Mountain

woooooo

Linn Run Road, Laurel Mountain, Forbes State Forest

It was a Dr J freeride and Seven Springs downhill weekend

2010-10-25T11:40:00.000-04:00

Saturday PTAG had their yearly volunteer appreciation party at North Park. There was a cross country ride, but the primary focus was the work that's been done on some of the more technical trails in the Pittsburgh area. Moraine and, of course, the Dr J Freeride Trail in North Park. We had about 30 people on Dr J, and there were at least 10 people out on the cross country ride. Great day!

If that wasn't enough, Sunday was the last day of downhill at the Seven Springs Bike Park. Darrin and I met up with Rich, Spurk, Dan, Kirk, Collin, Jarrod, Brian, among countless others for an awesome day on the mountain. Not only was there some great riding for all, the last race of the season tore down EC1 followed by a giant train going down 007 for the last run of the day.

PTAG gallery - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/PTAG-Party-on-Dr-J-1023

Seven Springs gallery - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/seven-springs-1024

Some photographs I like from the weekend

Spencer was fearless

Colin Burch getting some air on Dr J

Kirk hanging out beside Burner at Seven Springs Bike Park

Kirk on Lo-Pan at Seven Springs Bike Park

Crashing on the GES course at Seven Springs Bike Park

leaning in

monster train going down 007 for the last run at Seven Springs Bike Park on closing day

Vermont Weekend....Nor'easter be damned.

2010-10-18T16:48:00.006-04:00

Of course the one weekend Steph could get some time off and go to Vermont a Nor'easter decided to roll around New England. We threw caution to the wind and went anyways. I flew into Boston and we drove, through rain, traffic, and accidents to Quechee Gorge, Vermont. Long trip. Stayed at the Quality Inn right across the street from the Gorge (cool)....good waffles in the morning. Spent most of the weekend under threatening skies but never got rained on...lucky!!!! Visited Quechee Gorge, Ben and Jerry's, Green Mountain Coffee, Montpelier, SugarBush farms, Woodstock, good stuff.

Gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Vermont-October-15th-17th

some photographs -

Quechee Gorge State Park, Vermont

Covered bridge leading up to Sugarbush farms in Woodstock, Vermont

Harpoon Brewery, Windsor, Vermont

Tennessee Mud. Coffee Ice Cream with Amaretto, Jack Daniels Tennessee Whiskey and Roasted Slivered Almonds

1947 International Pickup Truck behind the cider shack

cool buildings along the river in Montpelier, Vermont

State Capital Building in Montpelier, Vermont

50th Anniversary of the 1960 World Champion Pittsburgh Pirates

2010-10-13T14:30:00.000-04:00

Since it was such a nice day I needed an excuse to get on the bike and take some photos. I found one. The 50th Anniversary of the 1960 World Champion Pittsburgh Pirates in Oakland. Every year people gather at the old Forbes field and relive the good old days. This year was special because it was the 50th Anniversary, so I decided what the heck. It was a bit boring for me, but the weather was awesome so I'll forgive the die-hard Pittsburgh Pirate fans that came out to celebrate.

Gallery of photographs from the event - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/1960-Pirates-World-1013

Some shots

they met after the 1960 World Series

cute kid

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates' World Championship at Forbes Field in Oakland

Bill Mazeroski plaque at the Forbes Field site in Pittsburgh

A new chapter begins at Dr J in North Park

2010-10-10T22:06:00.000-04:00

Today a group of us cleared out some overgrowth near Dr J in North Park and laid down trails that will become a new skills park with jump lines, both beginner and expert, and some drops and skinnies. The aim is not just to make this an area where jumpers can come in and shine, but a place where everyone can learn some new skills....or fine tune ones they already have.

The trails are pretty much cut in, now we build some jumps....

gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Dr-J-Skills-Park-1010

some photographs of the build

tools in hand, heading up to the build site

yea, I'm in the wrong place at the wrong time

some tools just don't hold up to Dr J standards

the new skills area trail at Dr J in North Park was officially broken in today

Another Thursday, another night at the Dr J Freeride trail in North Park

2010-10-08T19:03:00.000-04:00

The Dr J Freeride Thursday experience is always changing and evolving. And it's not always a change to the trail; last night we had a few of the riders' families come out and hang while their significant others rode. Kids running around, falling down scraping knees and calling for mom, little ones on bikes emulating pops; lots of cool shit going down while big burly machines ripped down the trail and people went sailing into trees. Andy Baechle stopped by to see the progress and to give his approval to a new skills area that will begin construction this Sunday. Andy, if you didn't know, is the County Parks Director...and a pretty cool guy.

Anyway...Dr J is definitely a step in the right direction. Soon to evolve.

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Dr-J-1007

some shots

Jarrod Bunk, the mad bike doctor

flowin'

Tyler Smith....fast

Mad Mex iphone fun

2010 Month of Mud Grove City Cyclocross race.

2010-10-03T17:48:00.001-04:00

Since I didn't feel like riding in the rain, I decided it would be better to go sit in the mud and rain and take photographs of the Month of Mud race in Grove City. There were some really epic shots to be had, just need one more light so I can illuminate more than one point of the photo. Now I know what's next on my list. Anyway, it was cool to watch and figure out some good angles for shots. It was my first time out there, so I was kind of meandering around looking for the perfect vantage point. I think I actually got muddier than some of the participants...and I know I sat, stood and laid in more poison ivy than anyone...damn, it's everywhere out there. We'll see how immune I really am!

gallery of photos from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/month-of-mud-grove-city-1003

some shots I like

down but not out in the 2010 month of mud cyclocross race in grove city

grinding through the pine trees at the 2010 month of mud race, grove city

putting the hammer down

Rob Lochner putting in work during the 2010 Grove City Month of Mud cyclocross race

it wasn't hard enough...handicaps were needed

smooth as silk

Dr J Freeride Thursday, North Park

2010-10-01T07:45:00.000-04:00

A few brave souls didn't let the rain keep them away, and Freeride Thursday on Dr J in North Park happened once again. The trail was a little slimy but hooked up as the night went on. Watch for the opening of the skills park soon, and the ribbon cutting ceremony at 1PM on the 23rd of October.

Gallery of photographs from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/drj-0930

Some shots -

Ed Watt takes his new KHS Lucky Seven for its maiden voyage down the Dr J Freeride Trail in North Park

Jarrod Bunk sending it on the Dr J Freeride Trail in North Park

William Kirk launching the entry ramp on Dr J in North Park

Benjamin Ringelholtz getting ready to send the newest feature on Dr J

POC goggles

Dan Spurk doing a nighttime drop on the Dr J Freeride Trail

Brian Martis stretched out on Dr J

BeaveRun motorcycle track day

2010-09-29T10:26:00.003-04:00

I finally was able to hook up with Ray Bradlau and join him out on the BeaveRun track this past weekend. Ray has been the official photographer at BeaveRun for the last 5 years. We just met this past year through the Dr J Freeride trail, and I've been trying to make some time to see what he does up at the track. Pretty cool gig, and I got to use his 400 2.8 lens for a couple of shots around the track. My lenses are all short focal lengths, and on a D700...so the I just didn't have the right equipment for anything except turn 1 where the bikes where 15 feet away from me. Anyway, I had a great time...unfortunately Ray and Sara are moving to South Jersey so Ray can grow his sports photography business. Good luck!

gallery of from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/BeaveRun-0925

and a couple of shots from the day -

Ray Bradlau catching the action as it crests the hill at BeaveRun

motorcycle coming around the hill at the BeaveRun track

Turn 1 at BeaveRun

A motorcycle after a crash at BeaveRun

opening it up at BeaveRun

Ray Bradlau and Sara King, The SB Image, BeaveRun track

Dr J Freeride Thursday, North Park, Pittsburgh

2010-09-24T10:52:00.000-04:00

An incredible turnout for another edition of Freeride Thursday on Dr J in North Park. There had to be 12+ hitting the sick lines until darkness fell and closed the trail for us. Can't wait until we get a little better walking trail next to the stunts so we don't have to grunt our way back up pushing 40lbs downhill bikes alongside. Next up....a skills park at the top. Be on the lookout.

gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Dr-J-0923

some pictures

Dave Brunger hitting the drop on Dr J

Jarrod Bunk getting flexed off the newest Dr J freeride feature

William Kirk focused

Benjamin Ringelholtz leaning into the first berm on Dr J in North Park

Ray Bradlau jumps into the darkness

Don Watt floats through space

Photos from the 2010 Rattling Creek Single Trackers Bash in Lykens, Pennsylvania

2010-09-20T09:14:00.003-04:00

This past weekend we spent our days riding some sweet singletrack, and our nights drinking and eating at RCST 2010. It was a blast, as usual. Thursday was a wet, but fun, ride at Raystown Lake followed by pizza night at Camp Muckleratz in Lykens. Friday was a fast swoopy ride at Swarata Gap State Park then some beer, chili cook-off, and more beer. Saturday was the tour of Rattling Creek, a band, some beer, some prison wings, and a great sleep. Sunday some rode, some packed and went home.

Awesome time...if you haven't attended a RCST weekend, you should.

Gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/RCST-0916

Some shots

Scott Johnson had some mechanical problems at Raystown Lake

Camp Muckleratz, Lykens, Pennsylvania

Don Olson making some damn good pizza

Riding the trails at Swatara Gap State Park, Pennsylvania

Shara Klevens, winner of the 2010 R.C.S.T. Bash Worst Chile In The Whole Damn Contest

Hang glider launch, Lykens, Pennsylvania

Scott Johnson navigating the rocks on Rock Ridge Trail, Lykens, PA

2010 Steel City Big Pour at Construction Junction

2010-09-12T09:48:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was the kind of day you just love. Woke up happy, rested, and ready to go! After lounging around and feeling content, Don Cunningham came over and we went for a great, short ride in Frick Park. The weather was absolutely perfect. After breaking a sweat, we went down to The Green Mango and grabbed a bite to eat. Yum... Walked home, gathered the troops and headed off to the Steel City Big Pour where we enjoyed 3 hours of sampling some fine brews! Back home, dropped the bike off, down to D's...another beer or two? Then home to pass out. Awesome!

Frick Park mountain biking photos http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-park-0911

Steel City Big Pour photos http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/The-Big-Pour-0911

Some photos

Frick with Don

Jim and Karen at the Steel City Big Pour

Kegerator!

2010 Steel City Big Pour, sampling glass

East End Brewing, Buy A Good Friend A Good Beer

Fun at D's

24 hours at Seven Springs, Dirt Rag team

2010-09-06T08:54:00.003-04:00

I had a great weekend up at Seven Springs, doing the 24 hour race on the Dirt Rag corporate team. We did pretty well, 8 out of 19 corporate teams...even with two major mechanicals on the first two laps. I got to do two laps, one nighttime and one daylight lap...1:20 day, 1:22 night. Pretty good considering it was my first 24 hour race, and I was riding someone else's bike.

Thanks to everyone involved, it really is a great way to spend a couple days!

A gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/24-Hours-at-Seven-Springs-0904

and some shots

Karen Brooks rocked out a 1:13 on her single speed Moots

Lee-Ann Beatty, trying to act like she didn't want to run

A beautiful rock garden on the Seven Springs 24 hour course

Jerry Montesano flying around the lake

Shannon Mominee gets a riding partner for his lake lap

Dr J Freeride Thursday

2010-09-03T12:08:00.001-04:00

Yesterday evening Jamie, Brunger, Justin, Kirk, Jared and I hit up Dr J in North Park for some freeride fun. The top section is butter smooth... We could use a little rain, the berms and little jump at the beginning are starting to show some wear because it's been so dry since they were built. It's gets a little tricky to ride Dr J in the dark, so we all bailed around 8pm. Can't wait for the next outing!

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/drj-0902/

Some shots -

our new baby

Dr J, the master

William Kirk sending it

Jared Schillinger launching the new feature

Justin Scheifflee mixing it up a bit

Dave Brunger cutting through the dust

North Park, Dr J, Freeride, Pittsburgh

2010-09-01T14:04:00.002-04:00

Well Dr J is now pretty much good from the top to the bottom. We had a great turnout this past weekend and fine-tuned a couple spots on the trail, and installed a brand new feature to get you over the dirt mound at the top. It's freakin' awesome, seriously.

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/drj-0829

Some photos from the day

Future spot of feature

Working away on the transition

Dan Spurk hitting the mandatory entry drop

Mark Kinneer on the new feature

Justin Scheifflee flying down Dr J in North Park, new feature at 0:13

POC Receptor Flow Helmet White XL-XXL 59-62cm For Sale on ebay

2010-08-26T14:34:00.002-04:00

another item listed on ebay...trying to clear out some old stuff I'm not using.
POC Receptor Flow Helmet White XL-XXL
auction ends Aug 31, 2010 11:28:08 PDT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270627229444

For those seeking a more ventilated bike helmet, optimized for low weight and
user comfort, the Receptor Flow is an excellent choice. safety is kept at a high
level thanks to the advanced shell from the Receptor + helmet with an eps liner
optimized in density to match perfectly with the shell. The size adjustment
system provides a simple way to customize the fi t of the helmet. We have
listened to the demands of our pro riders, seeking for a more slim design that
grips snugly around the head to stay comfortably in place during the various
movements of the head that takes place while performing tricks in the BMX
park or riding a bumpy Dirt track. sizes: XS-S, M-L & XL - XXL.

Selling my Clik Elite Nature Camera Backpack

2010-08-24T15:46:00.001-04:00

I'm selling a Clik Elite Nature Medium Camera Hydration Backpack on ebay. Used once, figured out it was not what I needed.
Auction runs through Aug 29, 2010 12:39:10 PDT

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270626444039

More information about the backpack can be found here:
http://www.clikelite.com/shop/medium-nature/

On day trips into the woods, mountains, jungles, or desert, the Nature does it all. Keep your camera and lenses safe and snug between Cradle Dividers in a fully adjustable, Velcro-lined camera bay. Carry food, clothes, and personal gear in a separate compartment. Whether hiking, biking, or skiing, you’ll appreciate the compact design and comfortable, adventure-worthy harness.
• Top compartment with hydration sleeve and tube port that fits up to a 70 oz reservoir
• Padded 12” x 8” x 7” camera bay with weather-resistant zippers
• Modular organization including Velcro-ready Cradle Dividers
• Media organizer with weather-proof zippers protects data cards, hard-drives, cables, pens, and business cards
• High-tech padded shoulder straps cushion against heavy photo gear, with additional support from load-lifter straps and adjustable sternum strap
• Built-in ChestPorts™ host Clik Elite ChestPacks™ for fast camera access on the go
• Attachment points on shoulder straps and waist belt host small pouches and lens holsters
• LadderFit™ harness system adjusts to 4 different torso lengths for comfort and optimized weight transfer
• Comfort-molded back panel sheds snow and dirt, vents heat and moisture
• Padded contour waist belt with bi-directional buckle comfortably transfers weight to hips
• Stash pocket with compression buckle
• Mesh side pockets keep water bottles and other items handy
• Side compression straps will secure load and holds a tripod
• External access zippered compartment for sunglasses and other accessories
• Hide-away rain fly
• Ruggedized construction: fully lined and taped, beefy zippers, 1680D ballistic, and 420D high-tenacity nylon fabrics
• Overall dimensions: 22.5”h x 14”w x 10”d – (1500 c.i. / 25 L)
• 5.3 lbs.
• Available in Clik Gray or Black
• Product Numbers: CE401GR (Gray) CE401BK (Black)

MSRP: $250

Harrison Hills Park

2010-08-22T20:31:00.000-04:00

Today we hit up Harrison Hills, which is full of hills...believe it or not. There were about 10 of us, and I tried my best to stay in the back so I could maneuver through the wet roots and rocks without running into peoples back tires. Single speeds aren't the best thing to ride up hills, in wet conditions, on a group ride. We had fun until Bob took us on a trail that basically bled us dry; a mile of thorns, chest high...ouch. Good times!

Pictures from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/harrison-hills-0822

A few shots -

Jeff glides over some logs

Bob doing some trail maintenance

After the thorn trail

Near the notorious cliffs people somehow fall over

Moraine Ride then Kayak

2010-08-21T10:19:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was a good day. Met Jim, Don, Spurk and Biber at the Moraine State Park mountain bike parking lot at 9AM. Spurk worked on a wheel for a bit, then we went out to put in some new signage. The ride started about 10:30 and ended up taking about 4 hours. 12 miles later we were all smiles in the lot, dripping from head to toe. After shooting the bull, I went down to Lake Arthur for a paddle. Ended up kayaking for 5 glorious miles, and came back to the car beat.

Ride photos - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Moraine-Ride-0820

Kayak photos - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Moraine-Kayaking-0820

Some fun shots from the day

Biber rockin' out

Don mastering the features

Spurk

Wheelie master Jim

It was so freakin' nice out at Moraine

Kayaking on Lake Arthur wasn't too bad either

Not bad at all!

Duff and Townsend Park, Murrysville

2010-08-19T07:24:00.001-04:00

Mike and I rode Townsend and Duff last night. Great weather! I had some chain issues that kept me from really hammering, but it was good nevertheless. The pine section in Townsend Park is awesome, and I forgot how cool Duff is. Duff has trails that are sketchy as can be, where the price for failure is a long tumble...just the kind of ride we like!

Gallery from the night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Townsend-and-Duff-0818

Some shots from the night

Pine section in Townsend Park

Out on the road in Murrysville

Mike on some stairs

Duff Park

Mike on the stairs

Monday means downhill biking at Seven Springs

2010-08-17T16:50:00.000-04:00

Ray, Sara, Dan and I went to Seven Springs Monday to do some downhill biking. Great day; cool, not too dusty, about 12 others on the mountain. The two things I didn't enjoy? No weekday discount, especially since the lifts aren't runnning...and the damn berms, they suck. Worse potholes than Pittsburgh streets. Please fix 'em. Thanks!

Gallery from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/seven-springs-0816

Some shots

Shuttle ticket

Dan and Ray

Ray on Burner

Sara's first time over the Rainbow bridge on Burner

BikeFest rides

2010-08-15T10:31:00.003-04:00

Today is the final PTAG ride for BikeFest. We'll be riding Boyce Park, well I will as long as the rain holds off. Looks like it'll start around 3, so that gives me a couple hours in the saddle followed by a nice outdoor shower.

Wednesday was a ride at Deer Lakes, Friday was an urban ride downtown, and yesterday was a ride at North Park. All were pretty humid, especially the mountain bikes rides. Time to pack up and do it again...

Deer Lakes ride - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/deer-lakes-0811
Urban cruise - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Urban-Cruise-0814
North Park - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/bikefest-northpark-0814

Some shots from the past couple days

Go Stillers!

Next to the casino

The 31st Street bridge

North Park

Jim on Dr. J

East End Brewing @ OTB Beer Club

2010-08-10T11:01:00.001-04:00

Last night the beer club at OTB was treated to some fine beers from East End Brewing. Scott brought Illustration Ale, Wooden Nickel Saison, Black Strap Stout, Monkey Boy, Wood St. Kvass, and Slartibartfast with him...along with a few pint glasses for us to take home! Thanks Scott....and Mike.

We also had Pedal Pale Ale from the tap, and some berry beer of which its name escapes me right now.

I've missed the a couple meetings, but glad I was around for this one. Unfortunately, kind of, it wasn't colder outside and the Snow Melt wasn't available. Snow Melt is my favorite! Be on the lookout for another firkin at OTB...this time it's going to be Big Hop...EXTRA hoppy with the freshest of the fresh hops!!!

Thanks again to all who work to pull this off every month.

Gallery from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/OTB-Beer-Club-East-End-Brewing

Some photographs -

East End Brewing's Illustration Ale

Getting schooled in beer

Mike doling out the goods

My ride home

Dirt Rag Table of Contents

2010-07-28T14:16:00.001-04:00

I've had my photographs used in the City Paper, and several other printed publications...not to mention the thousands of impressions from all over the web, but a few days ago I received a very special edition of my favorite magazine in the mail.

Dirt Rag used one of my photographs from the Gravity East competition at Seven Springs for their table of contents background. It's a shot of Eric McKeegan crashing and an unnamed competition launching over him in the rock garden. It's not the most technically great shot, but I love it nonetheless! Especially gracing the inside of Dirt Rag.

Not only that, David Biber used a my downhill bike in an illustration alongside an article by my friend Matt Weatherbee. Very cool...especially since he put my last name on the downtube.

Good stuff.

Downhill at Seven Springs

2010-07-23T10:44:00.000-04:00

Sara, Ray, and I headed up to Seven Springs yesterday to get some downhill riding in. Yes, I know it was a weekday...but when you've got the time...live it up. The lifts weren't running, but the shuttle was just about as fast, and bs'ing with the other riders on the way up was kinda cool. I think there were a total of 8 of us during the day, no more than 5-6 on the mountain at once.

Gallery - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/seven-springs-downhill-0722

Some photos and video from the day

Video compilation from the day

Sara taking a break

Ray on Frankenstein

Guess where I've been riding.

2010-07-19T23:44:00.001-04:00

Three guesses, the first two don't count.

Yep, Frick Park wins again. Yesterday was a solo outing, today I headed over to Joe's and we ripped up the park for a bit. Followed, of course, by a beer at D's. Fortunately we missed all the rain while we hung out with John and Tara by the taps.

Frick, yesterday - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-park-0718
Frick, today - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-park-0719

Grasshopper

Me not clearing a log

Joe riding the skinny

Frick, Frick, Frick....

2010-07-17T17:46:00.001-04:00

I think I spend way too much time in Frick...the dirt in particular areas is starting to look familiar. Oh well, I can think of worse problems!

Friday night I joined the PORC beginner ride, to freshen up my skills. Smaller turnout that I expected, but a good ride. Saturday morning I met up with DeeDee, John, and Karen at the blue slide park and rode Frick Park again. This time it was a little faster, and more technical....and that's good.

I was a little torn about tomorrow's ride, Roaring Run (Apollo) or Seven Springs downhill...but I think my body needs to feel the effects of gravity after all the climbing lately. Seven Springs wins. We'll be up there around noon if you care to join.

Enjoy some pictures from the last few days:

Beginner ride at Frick Park - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Frick-Park-0716
DeeDee's ride at Frick Park - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-park-0717

DeeDee telling tales

John on Bradema

Rick and crew

Trail Maintenance weekend, Frick then the Dr J Freeride Trail in North Park

2010-07-12T18:40:00.002-04:00

This weekend was set aside for some trail work. Saturday was the first Frick Park trail day in a while. Seth had been the steward, but I think his job at Venture Outdoors took up too much of his time so he passed the reins onto Jon and DeeDee. Nice turnout, light workday.

Sunday was another killer day working on Dr J in North Park. New trail was cut in, along with a berm to set up the entry onto a new deck feature we built. Solid as always, fun as always. Nobody rode it because the cement footers were still setting up when we left her. The freeride trail is coming along, getting better every time I get out there. Awesome!

Gallery from Frick - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-maintenance-0710
Gallery from Dr J - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Dr-J-North-Park-Trail-0711

and a few cool pics from both

tree surgery

my artistic attempt for the day

dr j berm and launch

signage

collage

Seven Springs Weekend

2010-07-07T10:12:00.001-04:00

I was lucky enough to spend a few days at Seven Springs this past weekend to celebrate Jeff Wuerthele's birthday. Saturday was an epic cross country ride. Epic not so much in distance, we did about 28 miles, but epic in time...it took us six and a half hours!!! Big group, lots of stopping, several mechanicals and falls. But, no better way to spend a day than out in the fresh air burning calories while laughing and smiling. Spent the night at Jeff's cabin, well I spent it out in Forbes forest (across the driveway) in a tree, but...

Woke up on Sunday to some French toast and omelets, followed by a great day of gravity on Seven Springs' downhill course.

Photo gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Seven-Springs-Weekend-0703

And some select photographs -

Slow, children at play...perfect

Heidi took one for the team

Heinz had all he can take

Jeff making some torches

Heather killin' it out on the course

That's how we end things

Bud Harris Cycling Track, Pittsburgh, Washington Blvd Oval Crit

2010-07-01T13:36:00.004-04:00

I had the great opportunity to attended the dedication of the Washington Blvd racing oval here in the 'burgh. It was named the Bud Harris Cycling Track, in honor of one of Pittsburgh's great names in cycling....Forrest 'Bud' Harris. I was fortunate to spend a few years of my younger life living next door to the Harris'. Ann, Bud, Susie, and Mat. You can see Mat's BMX gear in the Heinz History Center, he won the world BMX title in it...I think.
Oh, and here are some of Bud's photographs http://www.budharrisphotos.com

I don't really get the whole oval racing thing to be honest..I mean it looks like it could be fun, but seems like Nascar on two wheels...not my cup of tea. Anyway, it was great to see some friends and hang out with some of the Bike Pittsburgh crew last night. Glad Susie and Mat could make it to town for the dedication; Mat even raced Bud's old bike in the C race.

Enjoy a gallery from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Bud-Harris-Crit-Dedication0630

And a few pics...

Mat, Susie, and Ann unveil the new sign

Rob delivering some good eats

Mat racing

Proclamation from the mayor

Pennsylvania Grand Canyon Weekend

2010-06-29T12:12:00.004-04:00

This past weekend a few of my friends and I went up to ride the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, in Tioga County. In addition to riding, John Hinderliter and I did some paddling along Pine Creek. There wasn't enough water to clear all the bony sections, but it was fun nonetheless. Besides a hard rain early Sunday morning, the weather was perfect....just hot enough to make us run to the creek after a ride.

Enjoy a gallery from the weekend. http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Pennsylvania-Grand-Canyon-June

And some photos -

GAP Trail weekend

2010-06-20T19:06:00.000-04:00

Mike and I rode from Cumberland, Maryland to Ohiopyle, Pennsylvania this weekend. Partly because riding is cool, partly because the weather was great...but mainly because there was a beer festival in Ohiopyle that we couldn't miss! The weather was incredible, maybe even a little too sunny along the exposed parts of the trail...like the 25 mile climb out of Cumberland to the Big Savage Tunnel. Great weekend.

Enjoy a gallery of photos - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/GAP-Trail-Cumberland-0618

And a couple of cool shots

on the way into Cumberland

waiting on the train

the train

the borden tunnel along the gap trail

salisbury viaduct

lagunitas ipa and dead guy ale

Gravity East Series @ Seven Springs, June 14th - GES #2

2010-06-14T11:40:00.002-04:00

I spent yesterday hanging with some downhill buds who were racing and marshaling the Gravity East Series ( GES #2 ) at Seven Springs Resort. What a fantastic day. The practice runs were a bit muddy; you know that greasy, nasty crap that sends lesser mortals flying into the rocks and trees... The traffic cleared that top layer off by race time and the course did pretty well.

Lots of great crashes, nothing too serious as far as I know.

I can't believe how lucky we are in Pittsburgh. All these single track trails around, and a decent gravity park less than an hour from my house. Man, life is good.

Well here's a huge gallery of photographs from the day. I'll probably be adding a few over the next day or so.

http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Seven-Springs-GravityEast-0613

And here are a couple of shots.

RAW with the S90 is just awesome

2010-06-09T20:32:00.003-04:00

I currently have my Canon S90 set up to take both RAW and JPEG at the highest setting. Sometimes I just don't want to mess around too much with the RAW and the JPEG looks good enough. As a result this gives me an idea of just how good the RAW files from the S90 are when compared to the compressed JPEGs.

I went out for a walk in between the rain storms we've been having here in Pittsburgh today. Great chance to stretch the legs and maybe get a good shot or two. I only really got one good one before it started raining again and forced me inside.

Well this is the shot

I think it's pretty cool. But when I looked at the JPEG I was blown away by the loss of color in the flower and detail in the asphalt road beneath it.

Here's a comparison

Obviously the RAW shot is brighter and more colorful. Yes, I could tone it down a bit, but the JPEG cannot match the vibrancy of the RAW unless I spend a good deal of time on it. The glistening raindrops could be dodged, but still....

I love RAW

Troegs at OTB Beer Club

2010-06-08T07:47:00.003-04:00

Last night the members of OTB's Beer Club were treated to some delicious beers from Troegs Brewing Company out of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The menu included some old favorites like Troegenator Double Bock, Java Head Stout, HopBack Amber Ale. In addition, we were treated to two limited edition runs from their Scratch Beer Series....Bock - 30, which was a nice tasty bock of course...and 27 Stout, which was a milky, chocolaty magnificent creation.

Gallery from the evening - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/BCOTB-Troegs-0607

27 Stout

Justin parked out front

The gang BS'ing

My ride home along 2nd Ave

Frick and Boston

2010-06-07T13:03:00.000-04:00

A few days ago I went for a short walk in Frick to heal up the knee, I guess it kind of worked because I can run now again without too much pain....while out I grabbed a few photos, of course.

Gallery here - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Frick-Park-0601

I dig this one.

This past weekend I went up to Boston to visit my friend Stephanie and get a tour of Bean Town. Great weather, spent Saturday on the bike and walking around town.

Gallery here - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/boston-0605

Here are a few shots I took

2010 Opening Day at Seven Springs Downhill Park

2010-05-31T11:50:00.002-04:00

Darrin and I met up with Steve, Rich, Justin, Justin, Jeff, and Eryn....ran into 'Fro and Heather for opening day at Seven Springs Downhill Park on Saturday. The ground was dry and dusty, the lines were tight, the hucks were good. I think everyone was getting their mojo back, first time on a downhill course in a while...at least I was. Last time for me was a failure on a berm that ended my season early last year. Seven Springs is really coming along, Frankenstein is awesome, the Tank drop is cool...just fix the road under it please!!!! Can't wait to go out again.

Enjoy some photos and video from the day.
Full gallery here - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/seven-springs-0529

Jeff waiting on a run

Steve at the top

Getting ready for the alpine slide

Video from the day

Kayaking the Allegheny, and Riding Frick

2010-05-28T18:22:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I hit went down to Washington's Landing and put in the kayak. 6 miles or so later I had gone down to Heinz Field and back. Saw tons of people out, including Venture Outdoors doing their fishing thing in front of PNC Park. One of the girls there wanted me to go get her some McDonald's and bring it back...hope she still isn't waiting for me.

Galleries:

Kayaking - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Kayaking-the-Allegheny-0527

Frick - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Frick-Park-0528

Found some cool things along the shore

Enjoyed all the bridges

Today I went out on a solo ride in Frick Park. Of course I started at 1PM so it was smokin' hot, but fun!

Made it up the hill and under the fallen tree by the jumps.

Did a little hucking as well.

Pedal Pale Ale, Pedal Pittsburgh, Broken Santa Cruz Heckler

2010-05-20T19:19:00.002-04:00

Pedal Pale Ale was awesome, again...of course
photos here - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Pedal-Pale-Ale-Ride-May-14th

Pedal Pittsburgh was fantastic...perfect weather. Ended up doing the 60 mile loop with the OTB clan.
Erin did 35 less than 2 months after giving birth...go Erin!!!!
photos here - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/pedal-pgh-may-16

Last but not least....broke my Santa Cruz Heckler frame again...same spot.
photos - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Frick-Park-busted-Heckler-0520

2010 break, pretty much exactly the same as...

2006 break

Pre-PTAG Frick Ride and Pedal Pale Ale

2010-05-11T23:38:00.000-04:00

Biber wanted to do a short ride in Frick before the monthly PTAG meeting at Bike Pittsburgh's new offices, so I took up the challenge and led him and Darrin around for a quick 8 mile jaunt in Frick. The weather was great, especially knowing it was going to rain the next couple days and we had to get one in before it did.

Shots from the ride - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-park-may-10

Biber on Social Climb in Frick Park

Darrin on Bradema

Darrin doing a little jumping on Iron Gate in Frick Park

In other news, the Pedal Pale Ale ride is this Friday. Probably one of the best group rides of the season, so get out and enjoy it with 500+ of your closest friends.

Pedal Pale Ale!

Erin serving up the brews at OTB

Frick and Kayaking Lake Arthur

2010-05-08T09:35:00.001-04:00

Got to take the GoPro HD out to Frick a couple days ago. Made the mistake of setting it to 720p 60fps so the size of the video was a bit large, and compression took its toll on the final product, but....

Another video and some photos from the day in Frick here - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/frick-park-0506

Yesterday I went for a nice kayak on Lake Arthur in Moraine State Park. It was the first outing for my 14 foot Necky Manitou kayak and I couldn't be happier. Well I guess if I remembered to charge my camera battery before going up...that might..... The wind gave me some good chop to work through and surf, good times.

Shots from the day - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/Kayaking-Lake-Arthur-Moraine

14 foot Necky Manitou

The Hidden River Canoe Trail at Lake Arthur, Moraine State Park

Lake Arthur is beautiful

Rest stop

2010 New York City Five Boro Bike Tour

2010-05-05T18:22:00.002-04:00

Mike, Tom, Joe, and I rode in the New York City Five Boro Bike Tour this past weekend. We went up Friday, hung out in NYC with Robin, Jenna, and Jackie...explored a bit, ate a lot, drank a few, and rode as much as possible.
Gallery from the weekend - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/New-York-City-Five-Boro-Bike

The Holland Tunnel going into Manhattan

We ate directly across the street from the Time Square bombing, fortunately one night earlier

Battery Park looking back at Manhattan

The Sea Shepherd Conservation Society's vessel, the Steve Irwin

The Astoria Park rest stop

Taking the Staten Island Ferry back to Battery Park

Taking the #6 Train uptown to Union Square for a beer

Video of the 2010 New York City Five Boro Bike Tour

Boyce Park was awesome!

2010-04-29T06:37:00.004-04:00

Besides Don's numerous issues with his Stan's tubeless tires, it was a really great night at Boyce. It was a little chilly but really beautiful. The greenery is growing in and made the tight single track look even sweeter! I love biking.

Photos from last night - http://www.jonpratt.com/2010/boyce-park-0428

Great trails

Joe livin' it up

I love it!

mmmmm, Bell's Two Hearted Ale