the present invention relates and intermediates to a novel process for preparing triazolo - pyridines of the formula i wherein r 1 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen , alkyl or other suitable substituents ; r 3 is selected from the group consisting of hydrogen , alkyl or other suitable substituents ; s is an integer from 0 - 5 ; r 4 is hydrogen or a suitable substituent and to intermediates for their preparation . the compounds prepared by the methods of the present invention are potent inhibitors of map kinases , preferably p38 kinase . they are useful in the treatment of inflammation , osteoarthritis , rheumatoid arthritis , cancer , reperfusion or ischemia in stroke or heart attack , autoimmune diseases and other disorders .