To The Land of The Shimano

They upgraded the pumping track at Tamp MTB park recently, plus they really repaved and added lots of nice rocky trails for the BikeAsia race last week.

Plus, after the recent close shave at the ribs, I've never been more of a wuss. I was stuck at the pumping track's first main hump, too scareded to go up, lol. After 4 about-turn attempts, I just went for it, and managed to complete the circuit. I went another 3 rounds, faster and faster. But I guess, one must know their limit.

I sped up towards the first hump, leaned forward, in anticipation of the feedback from the climb towards the apex and... I caught AIR! Woohoo.

My front tyre was off the ground. Unfortunately, this never happened before, and before a smile could form on my face, I was about to land, and WHUMP, I fell like a smelly jackfruit.

I wasn't badly hurt, just a scratched knee, but what was ravaged was my already shaky confidence.

Either two things happened. Either I didn't straighten the bar upon impact, hence the front wheel skidded OR I put too much body weight to the front. But if you ask me, I think its both. LOL.

Anyway, I later met up with Isyraf and we went to the BikeAsia trail. 1 lap was 10km, but the trail was so disjointed, we ended up going about it the wrong direction.

But back to the trail. It was spectacular. The climbs are not killers, so you can cycle up without using back-breaking effort, enought to snap my chain. And the descents are long and gradual, allowing you to pick up speed if you're good (Isyraf) or meander around at a comfortable speed (me). Haha.

But they did add lots of rocks and ruts, making it more challenging than it looked initially. I'm definitely going there a few more times to shore up my confidence before heading back to Ubin.

Anyway, ppl, I'll be going to Japan again. My sister needed help in looking after the children while she's there on vacation, and since my brother-in-law is on a business trip while we're there, she needed me to help. Hoho. Free paid vacation. Though my leave for ORD is consumed. but who cares? Japan!!!

Maybe Shimano parts are cheaper there. Can I get an XTR derailleur for like $30? Oooo. I'll buy on the spot.

Hoho. leaving this Tue, coming back the following Mon. See u ppl!!!