SWEET SPOT TRAINING.  It sounds so innocuous, inviting, even delicious.  Oh, that it were true.  It is kind of, but not when you start...

... it's quite sour.

At least that is how it felt today.  

Even though I'd been looking forward to finally doing some solid sweet spot training, as I prep for my crazyquest at Leadville this summer, when I rolled out the door and pegged my heartrate to zone 3...

... it hurt.

Fortunately, the weather was pleasant and I discovered a string of fresh, new single track.

Is there a better way to start a 5-hour training ride?

Sweet spot training leads to sweet spot racing, which is exactly how I'll be approaching my outlandish goal this summer.

Actually, I did the math. 

It's not as crazy as it sounds.  

I averaged 12.7 mph 3 years ago.  I need to average 13.1 this summer.  .4 miles further per hour sounds doable as allgetout right now.  Especially after today's effort.

63 miles, 9338', 12.2 mph... by myself, today.
105 miles, 10,608', 12.9 mph... with a fair amount of pacelining, 3 years ago.

Those are moving times... the race is elapsed time, which is 12.7, with the stops.

Sweet spot racing will go sour in two scenarios.

One is completely unavoidable, the other must be avoided AT ALL COSTS.

Committing to racing sweet spot means you're going to feel absolutely amazing on the first climb or the first effort of your race...

... fools lose their shift in this moment.

They throw it all out the window, and pin in it with everybody else, first chance they get.  They go right to zone 4, and even zone 5.  So dumb...

... so, so dumb.

The second scenario where sweet spot racing can go sour is not eating enough.  Caught up in the moment of racing, feeling fantastic.  It is extremely easy to think we don't need to eat and drink...

... this is suicide.

Racing sweet spot requires a tremendous amount of calories.

2 Rules.

1. Stay in Zone 3, or below.
2. Eat, drink, and be racy.

 That's it.

You're welcome.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

Someone recently referred to our gloves as crit gloves.

Makes sense.  

Crits are right up there with DH and Enduro when it comes to risk.

Whatever your flavor, you need a superior feel on your bars.

Yes, the buy one get one is still going...

,,, no promo coded needed.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

 ---

164.9 (gotta dump all 4.9 of these)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 00 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

 

IT HAD BEEN A LONG DAY, at the end of the long week.  It could just have well been a cold morning in the dead of winter.  Either way...

... sometimes it's hard to train.

But, we do it.

I learned a little trick, and it's neverever let me down.  In fact, it's lead me to plenty a wonder glide around town.

When ya just aren't feeling it, all ya gotta do is...

... pull on your bibs.

Then, your

• Jersey
• Socks
• Shoes
• Helmet
• Glasses
• Gloves

By then, you've built up so much inertia it's easy to throw a leg over the saddle and pedal away...

... locking in a workout many skip.

Not us.

We do the work.

We are the industries...

... in PEDAL.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

Speaking of putting in the work... 

... are you looking forward to the upcoming Giro in May?

In collaboration with the world-famous Horton Collection™, we created these beautiful bags using Brett's stunning vintage fotos of the Giro.

What does this mean to you?

• We can make you custom gear with photos
• You can score for yourself or another Giro lover something truly unique.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

 ---

164.7
7.5 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 20 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

PODCASTS, AUDIO BOOKS, ETC.  I get a lot of recommendations, nearly all I'll check out the intro, some I dive into...

... some are really good.

This week I received two good ones from readers Leif and Randy.

The podcast was a deep, deep dive into Zone 2 training.  Maybe a bit two deep for me.  Part of it covered the amazing talent of Tadej Pogacar, and how he incorporates Zone 2 training.  It was fascinating, timely, and useful.

The book reminded me a bit of Goggins Can't Hurt Me.  It had two rules: 

• It's gotta be hard
• Come back alive

But, there was a third dimension which I thought glued it altogether.  

These recommendations came from readers, just like you, and I found valuable nuggets in each of them I'll be incorporating in my own training.

Other times, I'll get turned onto a book like Waterlogged or  Breathe or Natural Born Heroes on a ride or from a friend who's athletic or see a topic trending on Twitter.

Who we surround ourselves with, the information we consume, matters.

Riding with fast riders is great...
... sharing what they know is more great.

Look for a review of the book in an upcoming post.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

Speaking of looking... 

... are you looking forward to the upcoming Giro in May?

In collaboration with the world-famous Horton Collection™, we created these beautiful bags using Brett's stunning vintage fotos of the Giro.

What does this mean to you?

• We can make you custom gear with photos
• You can score for yourself or another Giro lover something truly unique.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

 ---

165.1
7.5 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

IT'S WEDNESDAY AND TIME FOR HOT LAPS.  Hot laps is our MTB race simulation we start up each Spring.  We have 3 courses, laps take about 20 minutes...

... well, the hot ones do.

The plan was to do the usual.  A parade lap, followed by an hour of getting after it. 

Tonight's course was slightly altered from last year's in this area.  At the top of an already longish climb, we turned right... 

... for an extra 50 yards at 17%.

Then, into a ribbon of new single track tracing the mountain ridge before diving down and boomeranging off the canyon sides.

Fun stuff, for sure.

But, the plan was to get after it for 3 laps...

... tired from the weekend's racing, we made a weak effort.

When you're weak, 
sometimes you need a week...

... to recover.

We are there.

 https://pedalindustries.com/products/gobabybag™

You know what else isn't according to plan, this bag I made for my grandson's parents.

It's a Classic size RaceDay Bag™ with backpack straps and the extra pockets of the PRO bag...

... marked up to be the raddest diaper bag ever!

Right now I have samples going out to be tested.

In the meantime...

... Whadaya think?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/gobabybag™

 ---

164.9  
7 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

EVER SINCE I READ ABOUT THE HUMMER and it's ability to inflate and deflate it's tires on run, I've dreamt of the day we could do that on our bikes.  Now it's here https://www.scopecycling.com/product/atmoz/...

... and I don't like it.

I can't put my finger on it.

There's just something wrong.  

Like all the edge, hardness, chance is removed and we are left with...

... oh, look at the softy now.

Can you imagine a Greek god riding this tech?

We already rarely get flats, snap chains or pop spokes.  Gone are the days of trailside repairs being a racing skill.  

We have computers telling us how hard to pedal and how fast to spin....

... even monitors testing our blood while racing so we know when to eat.

How will we ever develop backs strong enough to carry the load of life if we keep slicing away the hard with tech?

You know what the problem is though, right?

If/when this gets wide adoption, you and I won't be competitive without it.  Plus, we'll snag even more PRs with it.

Technically speaking it's not cheating...

... but, it feel like we are cheating ourselves of a better, harder experience.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/program-to-get-you-started

If you're looking to harden up, get RaceDay Ready™ in 10 weeks.

Here's the answer: https://pedalindustries.com/products/program-to-get-you-started

---

165.1  guessing, no scale
7.5 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

IT'S RARE THAT SOMEONE IS FASTER THAN ME DOWNHILL.  I've just done it a lot, and I've always had a good feel for going fast.  So, when someone jams hard to get ahead of The Old Diesel before the downhill...

... I just shrug.

Like in Saturday's race, the young buck sprints and slams the door on me at the entrance to a long, downhill singletrack.

He's trying really, really hard.

I'm right on him, barely working.

It's a valiant effort...

... until he loses his front wheel in a sandy turn.

Poor rookie.

You'd think at that point, he'd pull over.  

Not this guy.

He scrambles, while I am stopped.
Blocks the trail, while I am politely asking to go by.
Jumps on his bike...

... and goes even slower, he's shook up.

 Eventually, with some notsosubtle coaxing he pulled over.

Once there is a crack in our confidence,
things can quickly go downhill.  
We hesitate, overthink...

... reacting instead
of relaxing.

So much of going fast is a confidence game.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

If you're looking for increased confidence on and off the bike, check this out.

But, only if you're up for being pushed...

... hard.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

165.5  guessing, no scale
9 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE'S NO DOUBT ABOUT IT, no matter how good or awful our results, the best time to plan the next big goal...

... is right after the most recent race.

There's just something about.

If we got whacked, 
we are motivated by redemption and revenge.

If we dominate,
we're looking for the challenge to conquer is easy.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

I keep meaning to take pics of all our gloves I see at the races, but I'm not carrying my phone much these days.

You'll just have to trust me, these are rad.

There are lots of color options.

 

And it's Buy1Get1 this month.

No code needed.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

170?  I dunno, no scale,
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
00 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

MY BUTT WAS SPASMING,.  It was a bit embarrassing.  But, there was no stopping it.  At 8am on the start line, sub0-50, I was in my stretchy underwear, no warmers, no jacket…

… shivering, dressed to race!

It turned out to be my worst result of the year.

And, I was thrilled.

On the second of two 25-mile loops all I could hear was the opening to Eminems Without Me…

… Guess who’s back, back again
Diesel’s back, tell a friend.

Why?

Because for the first time in too long, I put together a good race.

• Good start
• Good nutition
• Good power
• Good finish.

It started last evening when the great Cody helped me dial in my shifting.  Turns out it’s quite simple, ya just gotta know what to do.

Now I do.

I lined up early.  It was mass start, and I slotted early cutting my warmup short. 

Totally worth it. 

We sprinted right from the start, uphill, gunning for the chicane that led to the singletrack…

… it was a clownshow.

But not for us. 

The crew said just a few spots after Eric, Steven, Chris and I got through it stacked up so bad people we walking.

At the last moment, I went with two bottles per lap.  About 300 calories per bottle, and one waffle.

There was one small hiccup.

When I grabbed my salt stick tablets, I popped open an empty bottle.

Ruh-roh!

Fortunately, I was relying on the Apple Watch to track my ride…

… quick texts to the crew and they had mustard and tablets when I came through for second lap.

I was 6ish minutes slower the second time around.  I’d prefer to snug that up, normally I’m faster the second lap or second half of something this long.  However, I haven’t done any sweet spot training this year…

… saving it for Leadville build this summer.

I finished 7^th in the 50+, first finisher in the 60s.  The days of racing my age group on winding down…

… I’ll be self-identifying as a yute going forward.

My biggest takeaway is big distance mountain bike racing is really fun and demanding.  I’m looking forward to the very specific training this summer.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

I keep meaning to take pics of all our gloves I see at the races, but I'm not carrying my phone much these days.

You'll just have to trust me, these are rad.

There are lots of color options.

 

And it's Buy1Get1 this month.

No code needed.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

170?  I dunno, no scale, but I've been eating all day... ending at Chris' parents for a massive barbeque.
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
00 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE RACEDAY and all through the van,
one creature was stirring, an anxious fit man
the race plate was hung on the bars with care
in the hopes that the start line would soon be there...

... that's how it feels the night before.

We shine things up, pick out our favorite clothes.

Then, for me at least, it is time to go to my laboratory where the mild mannered Dr. Jekyll in me will prepare the final recipe for ripping.

Being on point with the nutrition is critical to being able to start strong...

... and finish strong.

I pre-rode the course today in 2 1/2 hours.  I was really softpedaling.  I expect tomorrow to be significantly faster.

But, how much faster?

Will I need 1 bottle per lap or 2?

It will be 50 degrees at the start, warming up to mid-60s by the finish.

What is the best way to consume 300 calories per hour?

The start is gonna be nuts.  Full sprint for 5 minutes to try and get to the single track in front.  The first 3 miles of singletrack are pretty much impossible to pass on.  10 miles in it opens up quite a bit and it should be easy to eat and drink from there on.

Don't tell anybody, ok?

I'm going to start with 1 bottle of 400 calories of Skratch Superfuel, plus 4 Honey Stinger waffles.

On lap two, I'll have 2 more bottles with 300 calories each.  One with caffeine. 

Also on board will be my Salt Stick tabs.

The catalyst for all that will be my TFNB playlist

If that don't turn me into Mr Ryde, nothing will.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™ 

It's never too late to make your year great.

Ain't nothing like have a GIANT CALENDAR to confront you with the reality that life goes fast and you are wasting it if you're not planning it.

No excuses to not have something challenging planned, and well-executed.

Any Dr. can tell you the benefits of an Evil plan to kickarse.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™ 

 ---

162.9 (? traveling, no scale)
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

SEA OTTER IS THE LARGEST BIKE FESTIVAL IN US,  A few years back, this beast killed Interbike, the industry's largest tradeshow.  Oh, there were other things in play...

... but, Sea Otter remains king.

• There's the giant expo, where the latest product is revealed.
• Downtown biz meetings where the real deals are made.
• And racing
• MTB
• DH
• Dual Slalom
• Crits
• Circuits
• Road
• ... and Gravel
• Plus a host of product demos

My first visit, in the 90's, was to race the circuit race on the racecar course.  There is nothing like it.  A punchy climb, a 50-60mph plummet down the corkscrew...

... what's not to love?

Some how I'm never raced MTB here.

That changes Saturday.

I pre-rode some of the course.  It's beautiful.  Ribbons of singletrack lace through green spring grass.  I'm doing the 80K, long version.

But, I might do more.

For some reason they have the gravel race on the same exact course the following day.  I love ripping singletrack on my gravel bike...

... it's so very tempting.

A bunch of us are here, some racing road and some mtb and some circuit and some gravel.

There really isn't anything like Sea Otter...  there are fondos and tours, too?

What I am curious to see is how many racers show up now that USACycling is not part of the event.  When LifeTime purchased the event they decided to exclude USACycling.

It seems to me that effect the roadies more, because roadies are more into the category upgrades.  The dirt side of the sport has always been more laissez-faire.

Oh, and I'm kinda curious to race on the famous trails of Fort Ord...

... actually, super curious...

... I love racing unknown trails.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/canopies-banners-and-flags/products/bike-rack-banners

Another thing I love is seeing the bike rack full of bikes.

If have one of these racks, let's make you some banners.

$99, for a set of two.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/canopies-banners-and-flags/products/bike-rack-banners 

 ---

162.9 (? traveling, no scale)
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps +  Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
25 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

 

HAVE YOU EVER HAD A GREAT COACH?  The best have 1 thing in common, whether it be sports or business or relationships.  Of course, they are masters of advanced techniques and the basics...

... but, this is the most basic.

On our journey towards personal greatness, there is one thing a great coach provides that makes everything better...

... and I screwed that up this week.

A young tadpole signed up for some specific coaching for a specific event.  He was, and thankfully still is, very energetic in his quest...

... this ain't no I wanna be better journey.

He's after something big, and I failed to recognize where he was starting from.  I threw him into the fire.  Most people would have quit, and never come back.  But...

... this youngin isn't most people.

This is my kind, our kind, of athlete.  A fearless, freakin' charger who's only goal on the bike is to achieve his PR.

What do all great coaches impart?
Why to their athletes love them?

Confidence.

We love the feeling of confidence on RaceDay.
This, above all else, is what you want from your coach.

You know what a lot of good coaches order from PEDALindustries?

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/all-raceday-bags

RaceDay Bags™, because these bags give you confidence.

Do you have a friend who struggles on raceday?

Or, one who is always showing up unprepared for the big ride?

Well, I'd sure love to help you help them out.

So, check this out:

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/share-our-mission-earn-a-commission

 ---

162.9
7 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

I PUT SOME NEW SHOES ON MY MOUNTAINBIKE.  Had to.  After shattering my rear wheel racing last month, I'd kinda been resigned to racing on a loaner this weekend...

... but, all that changed today.

Before I tell ya how it happened, let me tell ya my first impression.

Because I wasn't shopping for new wheels, I wasn't scouring all the reviews and scheming of just the right set.  I had no preconceived notions...

... ie: marketing bs clouding my judgement.

When I picked up a new set of Crank Brothers wheels I was just excited to have something this weekend...

... that's as far as my stoke went.

I threw on some new rubber as well, the Conti RaceKings.  I've had a lot of luck with them as a rear tire and chose to put one on the front as well since it's time to start experimenting with fast treads for Leadville.

• New wheels
• New rubber, less tread up front.

I snagged this without really trying.  At the time, I knew I was ripping along so I was kinda curious to see the results when I uploaded...

... and not surprised.

 

I wasn't surprised with the result, but I was.

How could these wheels be so fast?

Could the front really track better than any wheel I've ever had...

... even with a less aggressive tread?

Well, yeah, obviously.  

Was it really possible that the rear tire put down the power better?

These were the thoughts I was having because the sensations were so palpable.  

Part of me wanted to hustle back and read the reviews, especially what the lying sunsaguns in the marketing department were saying.  I wanted to read what their biased wordsmithing had produced...

... exactly what I was experiencing.

A helluva wheelset.

Now, you might be wondering how I was able to get these when they have a four month backlog. 

To be clear, I warmed up the Amex and paid... this ain't no fluff piece from some sellout.

My inside track was through one of my pals who was kind enough to pull a string...

... making me even more indebted to him.

And, it didn't hurt that Crankbrothers R&D just moved to San Clemente...

... I really do live in the ActionSports version of Silicon Valley.

Everybody here is vibing off each other.

Pretty cool to be part of it.

You're part of it, too.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles

Do you know why I love clear bottles?

Because you can see all the grime on the outside, and all the mold and crap that collects on the inside...

... oh, and you can see how much liquid is left.

This offer will end either Thursday or when we sell out... whichever comes first.

Promo code is NOBS

And it saves you 50% on these awesome bottles.

But, only while supplies last or Thursday.

Act Now!... 

... you know you want at least 2 new bottles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles

 ---

163.8
7.2 hrs
15 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THE LONGER WE'RE INTO THIS SPORT, the more we are able to assess value.  Sure, we still drink the kool-aid our favorite brand is pouring...

... and that's cool.

What's not cool is how much this ability to assess value costs us, but I really don't have a good answer...

... I mean I do, but it might hurt.

Take this convo with my newest padawan.

How's your bike fit?

Oh, it's great!

Then, why did you get that rando cramp last night?

Uhhhh

Who did your bike fit?

Steve.

Oh, he's awesome.

How long ago?

3 years.

And there it was.  

3 years.
3 years?
3 years!

No wonder he was miserable first night out with us.  Poor little feller didn't have a clue...

... I set him off to a pro.

Fastforward to today.

How was the fit sesh?

Oh, man amazing.

Really?

Yeah, he changed everything.

Everything?

Well not my shoes, but I have new ones ordered.

What's wrong with your shoes?

Too tight.

You didn't know they were too tight?

No, I got 'em on sale.  40% off of $400 shoes.

 

We've got a ways to go, as you can see.

Want to save some money?

• Hire a coach.
• Take the veterans to lunch.

You could do some research on your own...

... just be careful with the koolaid.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-leadville-letters

If you were racing Leadville, or any of their races, you could save yourself a ton of money reading this.

Use promo code: BUYSMART

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-leadville-letters

---

165.6 (yikes)
8 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE ARE A FEW THINGS I'M PRETTY GOOD AT ON A BIKE.  One of them is momentum.  I have to be...

... because I'm not very good at a lot of other things.

Momentum is free and can make the difference between victory and defeat...

... after we put in the work.

Momentum through a turn,
tucking a long descent,
the final sprint.

Those are the obvious areas, but what about the unseen momentum?

1. Registering well in advance for a big race.
2. Always doing all I can do everyday.
3. Committing to a successful system and plan.
4. Expecting good things to happen.
5. Reviewing each milestone along the way.

Those are the keys to lifelong momentum.

Just yesterday the Stravaverse confirmed I have some momentum.  

Up one particularly punchy hill, I knew I was going good.  

We started from a dead stop at a light.  I tucked in behind the younger, spicer rippers.  It hurt.  It hurt so good.  The kinda hurt where you're dawgawn sure it's a special effort.  As the gradient backed off, we could see the light ahead was turning red.  They eased up, I pedaled on...

... the momentum too good to waste.

Where's the unseen momentum?  

Nobody could see the squats I've been doing, the pound or two I've shed...

... I'm the only one who knows if I'm doing all I can do.

 https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

 On the ride yesterday, I was smiling...

... so many of the posse were donning my Superlight Race Gloves

Maybe it's because the fit is so amazing,
or because there are so many color options,
or is it the heat sensitive thread to operate devices,
or could it be the insane buy one get one offer that's going on?

Whatever it is, 
it makes me happy.

 https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

---

165.5 (not good)
8 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

AHHH, THE BIRTHDAY RIDE.  Happens once a year for all of us, sometimes even on a Saturday.  We have this old guy...

... and today was his day.

The Gentleman (not the old guy) politely stated, I'd like to find a bathroom before we meet up with the group.

Censoring laws prohibit a direct quote, but the old guy went on about some Play-doh reference...

... some people never group up!

We're all guilty of that by my reckoning.  

Long beyond using bikes for transportation, we meet up at the corner for the weekly rip around town.  And, it's a dern fine thing...

... ain't it?

We rode 90ish miles today, 6000' of vert, over 19mph. 

Who does that?

Do you want to go for a 90 mile drive around town?

Heckno!

Do you want to ride for 5 hours, max your heartrate, come home and collapse on the couch?

Hellyeah!

We do that.

Every year for as long as we can...

... which is why I probably still crack poop jokes.

---

After a few frustrating finishes in March, I was feeling burned out and unsure of Sea Otter next weekend.  But, Hot Laps Wednesday felt great...

... and today felt even better.

I took it very easy M, T, Th, F and got after it W and S.  That is polarized training, and just what I needed this week.

 Stephen Seiler posted this link on Twitter, and I highly recommend it...

... it's long, but worth it.

https://sportsmedicine-open.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40798-022-00438-7

I also highly recommend DZ Nutz for long rides like today.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go

If I was 60 I'd crack a joke on where to apply this wonder ointment...

... but, the name is pretty good as it it.

If you're part of RaceDay Ready, use your 25% off code.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go

---

165.1 (oops)
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

I'D SPENT THE SUMMER PREPARING TO REDEAM MYSELF.  A year earlier, I'd raced the Leadville 100.  I'd finished, got the big belt buckle...

... but it was a miserable day on the bike.

This year would be different.

I knew what lay ahead.  I trained specifically on the biggest climbs around.  Watched my weight.  Got a new bike...

... there was only one problem.

As we bombed across the vast Utah desert, I grabbed my bag to find my sunglasses.  It was a big dome bag and it carried everything in its giant blackhole.

I found the glasses...

... my shoes were nowhere in site.

Diving further back in the car, while the guys chatted, I started to sweat. I clawed through my other bag...

... maybe they were there?

Then, I saw them.  Clean.  Shiny.  In my mind I could see them, in reality they were hundreds of miles behind on the back porch...

... where's I'd left them.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!

This was when you paid dollars per minute to roam on your cell phone...

and boy did I pay!

• A shop in Grand Junction had shoes, no cleats.
• A shop in Rifle had cleats, but would be closed when we passed through. I begged and pleaded to pay over the phone and have them left outside.
• Meanwhile, Surfergirl was hustling to FEDEX to Next Day Air shoes to Leadville... a city, so remote at the time, Next Day Air wasn't guaranteed.

 Now you know where I got the inspiration for the RaceDay Bag™ˆ.

Every one of the products we make and sell has an origin story like that.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/changing-ponchos

For example, The Changing Poncho.

My hometown is a big surfing community, world-class breaks abound.  I grew up surfing, and still surf often with my lady.  Most of us towel change, but it's not as easy or convenient as a giant poncho.

Not only is the poncho awesome for changing, but while I'm changing, I use it to wipe off any grime from the ride...

... not only on my body, but my bike as well.

The microfibre is durable enough for all your gear, 
but soft and comfy our bodies.

 Use promo code: changeINstyle

To save 20%

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/changing-ponchos

---

164.9 (oops)
7 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

LOCALLY, WE HAVE CREATED SOME REALLY FUN RACE FORMATS.  From the Belgian Waffle Ride's unRoadRace to CritCross's go cart track with added dirt berms and jumps to the unOFFICIAL Tuesday Morning World Championships...

... I love the creativity and freshness.

But, the true test, for me, is an epic.

A long, long challenging route.
Unforgiving elements.
A time cut.

There are myriad long, challenging routes.
Countless courses to curse.
But, without a time cut...

... it's just a race.

And, I don't mean a Hey, if you're slow we're gonna pull ya kind of cut...

... I mean, you miss the cut you miss
the badge of honor,
the coveted prize.

With these types of races, the challenge is not to crush the competition it is to finish.  What happens is unlike all other races.

Everyone starts spunky, bouncy, full of cocky confidence and transitions into business mode.  The paces are set, the nutrition consumed at precisely timed intervals.  The miles roll by...

... and the racers roll on.

Friendships, no...

... alliances are struck.

The battle of wills is real, and some start to falter...

a wobble
missed turn
cramping thigh

... and then quit, retire early.

The time cut, once ticking far off, barely toc, starts to pound for those who persist...

... before becoming blaring bells of hell.

I live for that...

... to rage against the final miles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/custom-name-raceday-wallet

Building the resolve to press on starts months, even years prior to the big day.  For there is a lot of training, but there is also a hardening of the mind that is necessary.

This was so powerful for me 3 years ago in my quest to break my PR.

Got a Big Insane Goal?

Make yourself a reminder wallet, all you have to do is type in your goal... we'll take care of getting you a badass reminder tool...

... oh, and you'll have to train, too... can't do that for you.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/custom-name-raceday-wallet

---

162.9
7 hrs 
5 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THEY SAY YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG, I'm a strong maybe on that premise.  A few of us are aging up this year and there is one thing for sure...

... racers love getting older.

There is this sense of things getting easier, racing oldsters, etc.

So, why don't you sit down for a moment and let The Old Diesel settle this once and for all.

First, there is a grain of truth of it getting easier.  It's true for about one race, maybe a few, definitely not an entire season.

Why?

Well, you've aged up.  You're no longer the oldish racer being pushed by kids, you're now the kid.  Being challenged by the kids keeps you on your A game.  When you age up, you're the kid and the challenge will still be there...

... but, it's somehow less.

Second, the older we get the more we run into the professional amateurs.  These are the blessed who have figure out their finances.  These are the emptynesters who have sent their birdies off into the world to live their own lives.  

They have money and time, possible more money and time than they ever dreamed of...

... this is their new outlet.

Third, and this might be the most evil of all the hope dashing spears coming your way, these are the survivors.  

Their bodies are still in great shape and they are well acquainted with what is physically possible.  Plus, their wiley coyotes...

... with more ways than you can imagine to do you in.

That's the bad news.

Here's the good news...

... you can be the crafty master of your domain, too!

Lots of people do it...

... getting better each year, performing at the highest levels.

How do they do it?

Two have 2 things:

• Friends who are younger than they are
• A mission to accomplish

I'm much more inspired by people who are great at what they do and continue to contribute to society well beyond the norm...

... their legacy eclipses those who pull the plug early.

That's why I'm so passionate about RaceDay Ready™...

... my legacy.

The details are here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

163.6
7.5 hrs 
15 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyyoaWjVXYM

I KNEW I WOULD HAVE TO GIVE UP CRIT RACING.  I loved it, was good at it, but there was something about leaning shouldertoshoulder into a tight turn at 30 mph...

... that brought out the worst in me.

I'm not proud of that.

Fortunately, I found mountain biking and was able to keep some fitness as well as get out into nature...

... a perfect marriage of my BMXy youth with the road's power and endurance.

This marriage would eventually give birth to 2 National Championships on the MTB, which was a lot of fun and very gratifying at the time.

But, there is another combination I'm even more stoke about.

After I designed the RaceDay Bag™, I began production in China.  It was cheaper.  Duh!...

... but, cheaper isn't always better.

And rarely, best.

So, I figured out how to make the bags ourselves in the proverbial backyard.  They were better.  Better materials and better workmanship...

... then we had the really cool breakthrough, which is powering us right by all our competition.

I figured out how to make everything on demand, which meant we could make custom bags one at a time.

Teams as small as 1 (one), could order customdesigned product.

From bags it was easy to go to ponchos to socks to gloves...

... right on up to amazing jerseys and bibs and jackets etc.

Now, we import all these incredible fabrics from Italy to make super high quality apparel...

... one at a time, just for you.

So, I'm going to make you this insane offer.  I'll design for you a custom ________ (your choice) for Free.  We normally charge $50 just for the designs.

All you have to do is email me personally, and we'll get started.  My address is todd@pedalindustries.com.

Can be for anything we make:  bags, jerseys, bibs, gloves, socks, 10x10 pop up canopies, etc.  

Remember, email me within 48 hours.  

XOXO,

todd (@pedalindustries.com)

---

163.6
7.5 hrs 
15 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

I GOT A HOT DATE WEDNESDAY WITH AN OLD LOVER.  Some of my friends are happy about it, most don't think I'm ready to face her again.  I think they might be right...

... but, you know how love is.

We all loved her at one point last summer, she's that hot!

Those warm summer nights...

heartrate jumpy with anticipation
favorite kit looking just so
then the hardbreathing
gasps of pleasure
and pain

... our lover's nickname?

HOT LAPS.

Oh Boy! does she have a bad reputation...

... for ruining riders and racers,
boys and girls,
confidence,
swagger.

Join us if you're local: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

If not, start your own.

• Begin on time
• Do a parade lap so everybody knows the course
• Race laps should be 20ish minutes X 3 laps.
• Bonus, if you can make a loop where others can be seen
• Double bonus, for different loops each week.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

Since the summer race/ride season is fast approaching, I'm going to keep this promotion going a few more days.

 

Use promo code: iSEEu

Saves you 20% on changing ponchos.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

---

164.5 (oops)
8 hrs (terrible night)
10 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 25 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

WHAT IS THE PERFECT RACE?  Is it winning?  Returning unscathed? An insane adventure?  A performance breakthrough?...

... could be all of the above.

Or none.

For me, it's perfect execution of my plan.

Result recognition is a sideshow.

The plan has 3 parts.

Preparation

• Nutrition
• Recovery
• Time in the saddle
• Strength training
• Race Weight
• Bike Set Up

The Race

• Travel
• Accommodations
• Warm Up
• Racing

Review and Repeat

Sure we want the race to go well, but when it comes to reviewing our performance, it's critical to analyze all 10 aspects of what went into hitting the finish line as fast as possible.

We can always do better,
10 times better.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

164
8 hrs (terrible night)
6 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

IT WAS A ROUGH ONE TODAY.  While I led my class up the long opening climb and down the riproaring singletrack.  It didn't last forever...

... and I was left questioning my identity.

Not because my legs felt dead, not because I was beaten by better men.  But, because I just didn't have it.

I didn't have what it takes to ride all out at a legit mountain bike race.

Halfway through I started to day dream, and tire out.

It can happen out here.

The terrain is gorgeous and the views expansive.  Due to the very twisty course you never really see anybody unless you're right on their wheel.  I found myself digging the vibe of nature...

... rather than blasting every berm.

And, just like that the fellas passed me and disappeared.

Which left me time to consider what kind of a racer I am at this point:

• Roadie
• MTBr
• Graveler

I'm not even sure because I'm spending 1-2 days each week on each bike.

Am I a triathlete then?  

Say it ain't so!

After a pleasant rest of the day, talking to friends.  Rehashing it all.   Hatching plans for the next one I had an interesting conversation with Nic Beeschan.

Nic beat everybody today, by a lot.

He's a pro.
Lives in a small mountain community.
He only rides MTB.

And there it was.

To perform at my very best, to get those last percentages of performance, I'm going to have to specialize, go back to my roots...

... it's pretty clear.

If you don't have "it",
you've got to get "it".

Or, maybe I should stop identifying as a 20y/o punk...

... and go visit my grandson?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

No, I don't have pics of what I'm about to share, you'll have to take my word.

There we were, chatting and eating some lunch and the ladies across the way roll in after their race.

Next thing we all know, much to our disbelief said ladies strip and change.

To each their own, but maybe they need to own a changing poncho?

Use promo code: iSEEu

Saves you 20% on changing ponchos, this weekend only.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

---

162.9
5.5 hrs (terrible night)
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

CAN YOU IMAGINE BEING CHRIS FROOME RIGHT NOW?  Going years without a result.  Continuing to train your lycraclad buns off...

... and getting dropped again and again and again.

Of course you can.

We've all been there, some of us are there right now, and some of us, like Froome, may never get beyond that point of racing.

Racing is hard.

Everybody is at their best,
Everybody wants to win...

... everybody thinks they're a racer until they go months or years without a recognizable result.

And that's the difference between racers and riders.

Racers race.
Riders ride.

At this point, I'm more impressed with Froome than ever.  That's a low bar.  I was never a Froome fanboy.  He was too humblebraggie, too awkward in his style, too robotic, and he fell off his bike too damn much...

... but, I love racers.

Especially those that keep lining up, regardless the odds.

When the world doesn't notice our struggles,
and battles and trials,
when the shyte hits the fan
and nothing is going right..

... racers keep racing.

No recognition needed.

Race on.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

Got this from one of the racers using the RaceDay Ready™ training protocol.

Have you checked it out?

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

162.9
7.5 hrs
2 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

SOME OF US ARE HAPPY TO BE RIDING, others are driven.  Today, I ran into two of my pals.  Each has huge, demanding events coming up this spring and summer.  One is supremely confident...

... the other has a long way to go.

The one who is confident is doing BWR San Diego, a hellacious test of endurance and bike handling skill.

He's been training all winter. 

When I saw him today he was on his race bike, a gravel rig. High up on the single tracks above our little town...

... ripping.

You ready?

Oh, yeah.  All the dudes are scared.  They know I'm coming for them.

We should all feel this sure of our selves before such a race.  

But, it takes a lot work.

Hard work.

Prepration.

The less confident of my pals called me up.

I got into Leadville.

Are you training?

No, I just got over Covid - again.

Dang.

Yeah, but I'm ready to go.

Ok.

You've done it a bunch, I want you to train me and get me ready.

You're sure you're healed and ready for this.

For sure, I'm in.

Is he really ready for this?

I dunno, but we're gonna find out real quick if he's just riding it.

To be honest, I'm not sure there's a right way to do it.  Both have their merits.

I only know my way, set an impossible goal and do everything possible...

... to make it happen.

If you're driven like us, check this out:

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

162.4
7 hrs
12 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 12 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

UNLESS YOU HAVE DONE A LOT OF SAILING, you really have a limited understanding of the wind.  Sailors learn to see it, feel it, hear it, taste it...

... and have a distinct advantage when road racing.

At one time, I was consumed with sailing.  

The family catamaran turned into an obsession with Hobie Cats, which morphed into windsurfing...

... to eventually teaching windsurfing to pay for school.

Knowing the wind is everything in sailing.

Here's what you need to know when it comes to riding bikes:

• The wind direction changes based on how fast you are moving.
• A breakaway with a tailwind is more likely to succeed than one with a headwind because the draft is effectively neutralized with a strong enough wind.
• With speed, a side wind becomes a headwind.
• When drafting, move around behind the rider in front and find the sweet spot, where the wind is marginalized.
• A proper pace line will have the fast side leeward (protected by the wind) and the pulling off side windward (taking the wind).
• The larger the group, the shorter the time spent on the front.
• It's usually easier to be in the rotation than trying to hang onto the back of the group.

The biggest of those is the first.  

In a group, or alone, the faster you are moving the more the wind will hit you in the face.  
It's not so much that the wind is changing directions as much as the pace of the riding has changed significantly.

Second, be aware of attacks with a tailwind.  
They are hardashell to bring back.

Crafty racers will look at the predicted wind on a weather app the day before a race.  
What part of the course will the group provide shelter?
Where might an attack happen?
And check it again pre-race.

Devilish racers looking to win, will "put the race in the gutter".  
This means if the wind is coming from the left they will race as far right as possible so there is little to no draft to be had behind them.

Racers who know what their doing...

... ride like the wind.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/ride-like-the-wind/527320131?i=527320136

Some months are windier than others.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

Sea Otter is coming up for me.

I've had some hellawindy days on the circuit race there.  Gonna do it again, and then hit the endurance MTB the next day.

All prepping for the ridiculous sub-8 Leadville quest.

You do have your RaceDay Calendar™, right?

Ships free.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

---

161.9
8 hrs
6 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

LIVE PERFORMANCES ARE THE BEST.  They are risky.  There's no faking, either you've got the talent of you don't...

... just like racing.

Sure you can crush the Zwiftoton,
destroy the groupie ride, 
steal KOMmies...

... but, do you have it on RaceDay?

 It's risky.

• Cash
• Time
• Travel
• Equipment
• Training
• Nutrition
• Fitness

So many things to coordinate.

And when all goes right, when you know you're ready, when you give every last bit of your body, mind and soul to delivering the performance of your lifetime...

... that's just dawgawn beautiful.

I'll watch that all day long.

Like this : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voH11xV4AKI

skip to 1:30

If you're looking for an edge or just to get started.

Here's where'd I'd start: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

163.4
7.4 hrs
12 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 24 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

I DON'T HIT THE BEAUTY PARLOR TOO OFTEN.  It's definitely, without a doubt, my very favorite indulgence in this wonderful quest to be faster.  Sitting and talking with my stylist...

... the time just flies by.

Today's beauty appoint was a bit of an emergency.

Like a total rookie, I swapped my cleats before the big AZ races.  That wasn't the rookie part, not marking them perfectly before the swap...

... was so unpro.

I made do, but it wasn't great.

In fact it got to the point of knowing if I went much longer I'd be risking long-term damage.  Not a good place to be when I have a big races two of the next three weekends.

The amazing Ashley may not have been...

trimming, 
adding color,
waxing my ears,
plucking my brows,
or giving me a mani and pedi...

... but, I just love sitting there and talking to him while he works...

... swapping saddles,
adjusting heights,
aligning cleats.

He's a wealth of insight and knowledge.  I always learn something, often a lot...

... he intently listens to all the drama in my life.

Before you ask what it costs, not you, but you the new racer just winging and eyeballing things...

... what is the cost of discomfort, untapped power and potential permanent sportending damage?

You don't know do you?

Exactly my point.

If you haven't, and most of you have, go find the best bike fitter in town.  Ask for referrals.  Eventually you'll find the hidden treasure you've been looking for...

...  and you will feel just as fast and sexy as hell I do right now.

If you're local to me, I got just the guy.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Part of feeling fast and sexy is having a great helmet.

Blowing out the remaining inventory, save 40%.

Protone

1 Red Medium

Valegro

1 Light Blue Medium

Rapido

1 Large Red
1 Large Black
1 Medium Black
1 Medium Anthricite

Use promo code: NOGGIN to save 40% (up to $120) before 3/23

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

163.4
7.7 hrs
12 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 32 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

YESTERDAY WE ALL WITNESSED A MASTERPIECE OF TURNING.  It was brilliant.  Carving perfect lines, tires gasping for grip...

... captured on video.

Matej Mohoric's triumphant plummet off the Poggio was brilliant.

Did you notice how early he set up each turn?

You couldn't see it on the video.

You could see a lot...

... including the crazy two wheel drift he miraculously corrected, twice.

But, not the set up.

Not until the post victory interview.

I heard it, but it didn't register at first.  He simply  said, We worked really hard on the set up.

I tried to figure out what he was trying to explain...

... then it all came to light.

Already known as a death defying descender, he and his team mounted a dropper post on his road bike...

... which lowered his center of gravity and made him even more aerodynamic.

They set the bike up months before and then dialed in how the changes would improve his outstanding ability to get down the mountain...

... faster than anybody else.

This incremental increase gave him just enough additional speed to open up a gap of 8ish seconds...

... all he needed.

Racing the final kilometers the road was smooth and safe, a place where normally a fast descender would be caught.  

Not this time.

It was over.

Months ago Matej decided it was his turn to win Milan-San Remo.

As I quoted yesterday...

It is the will to prepare to win,
that is important.

Set your turns up early:

• Inspect the course if you can
• Choose you tires, and pressure 
• Set up your bike position
• and suspension

Cross the apex, and exit in a better position than you ever have before...

... stun you competitors.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

And, for heaven's sake...

... wear a bitchin' helmet.

Blowing out the remaining inventory, save 40%.

Protone

1 Red Medium

Valegro

1 Light Blue Medium

Rapido

1 Large Red
1 Large Black
1 Medium Black
1 Medium Anthricite

Use promo code: NOGGIN to save 40% (up to $120) before 3/23

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

163.4
7.2 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

I THOUGHT IT WAS THE GREAT BOBBY KNIGHT WHO SAID If ya ain't cheating you ain't trying, maybe because March Madness is on or maybe just because he said so many funny and profound things...

... and I did a little cheating recently.

I use to cheat a lot.

Every Sunday, and a lot of days in between.

Chips n salsa.

Sleeves of Thin Mints.

Dozens of doughnuts.

I think it was His Excellence, Tim Ferriss, who drove the concept home in The Four Hour Body.

While there is some good info in there...

... cheat days, as I've learned relearned and learned again, ain't one of 'em.

Even once a week.

Not if you're really committed to peak performance...

... and the reason is simple.  

• If you've laid back in your own personal dental chair 
• with a pair of greasy vice grips in hand
• yanked hard on that sweet tooth
• and tossed it down in trash
• you know what I mean.

Once it's out...

... it's like casting out the devil.

The shackles are broken, the cords loosened...

... you are free to roam about the house with zero temptation.

But, if you're anything like me, give that devil an inch and it's over.

Just this week, Surfergirl brought home a giant, fresh, delicious sourdough bread.

Golden crust.

Thick.

Want a bite?

Nah.

Sure?

Well, okay, just a bite.

Next thing I know I'm up in the middle of the night like a feverish, drug addicted rat searching all corners for that bread I asked to be hid.

Morning came.

Uh, Handsome did you find the bread?

Mmmmmaybe.

Did you leave any?

Uhhhhhh, you know I love you and how I begged you to hide it.

I did hide it!

Not good enough.

Uh-oh

By the way, we're out of butter.

This quote of Bobby's is a little more apropos:

The key is not the will to win.
Everybody has that.
It is the will to prepare to win,
that is important.
- Bobby Knight.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Quote's like the above are thoughtful,
thoughtful people are smart,
smart people wear helmets,
this is a helmet blowout.

Protone

1 Red Medium
1 Black Small

Valegro

1 Light Blue Medium

Rapido

1 Large Red
1 Large Black
1 Large White
1 Medium Black
1 Medium Anthricite

Use promo code: NOGGIN to save 40% (up to $120) before 3/23

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

163.7
6.7 hrs
6 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 8 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
10 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

ZONE 2 TRAINING HAS BECOME ESSENTIAL TO ME.  There is nothing better to build a huge cardio engine...

... but that is only the half of it.

Nearly all of my zone 2 training is alone.

Like most, my schedule can get hectic, and it is a challenge to meet others for a session more than once or twice a week...

... so, it's just me.

Not only am I riding in solitude, but the majority of the rides are off-road, in nature.  Or, off the highway on a bike path.

Here is where I tap into the superpower of zone 2...

... and maybe you do the same.

I noticed it long ago, when a certain infamous champion dominated cycling's collective consciousness.  As I rode along, I imagined I was him.  My posture changed, my cadence changed, my thoughts were elevated to those of a champion.

Years later, I realize zone 2 can be a meditative workout. 

Far from the distractions of life, I am with my thoughts.  Sometimes, for sure, I am envisioning a great outcome on the bike.  Reviewing what I'll do in preparation, and how I will perform at a given time...

..., but, that's not all.

I take this time to imagine all areas of life having the outcomes I desire.  My marriage, our kids and grandkids.  Our long-term physical and spiritual health. The people I serve.  And, most definitely, where PEDALindustries is headed.

That is how I do zone 2 training...

... how about you?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go/products/bikeshop-dz-nutz-pro-chamois-cream-4oz-tube

When I'm out for a really, really, really long zone 2 sesh, I like to have a little lotion for my bits and pieces...

... and this is my favorite.  

Lasts longer and requires less than other brands.

Use promo code: ZTWO

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go/products/bikeshop-dz-nutz-pro-chamois-cream-4oz-tube

---

163.5
7.6 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 24 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

RACING IS ENDLESS BATTLE AND CONFLICT, and you cannot race effectively unless you can identify your enemies.  That's my twist on a great Robert Greene post...

... but who are your enemies?

It matters.

Because, choosing worthy adversaries and worthy races will bring about worthy training.

Which is exactly why I'm so excited to race the famous and awesome Sagebrush Safari next weekend.

Last year it kicked my butt.

This year it should have more tough competitors.

Do I have a chance at winning?  To be honest, I don't think so.  

And, I love that.  

To race against the best guys around these parts on a classic, long loop course that is technically challenging...

... that is a worthy endeavor.

When you think about it, having enemies is kind of an immature way to look at it.  Adversaries sounds a little better...

... I prefer bringoutmybesties.

And what about the enemy of my enemy is my friend?

That actually turns out to be very true in road racing. Figuring out who is likely to win and who is anxious to prove that wrong can work to the benefit of a calculating competitor.

It doesn't work so well in the dirt.  The speeds aren't high enough, the terrain too challenging.

Let's not leave out this maxim: a common enemy brings us all together.

The place I have seen this be most true is in regards to a beastly course like Leadville.  A bunch of us from around these parts are going this year and we'll definitely all be training together and sharing ideas about how best to go about slaying the monster.

A final note I feel compelled to share:

Nevertheless, when the wicked rule the people mourn.

Wherefore, honest men and wise men should be sought for diligently, and good men and wise men ye should observe to uphold; otherwise whatsoever is less than these cometh of evil.

Therefore, renounce war and proclaim peace.

On a lighter note, we made some really fun custom gloves for the promote of the Sagebrush Safari, Quick N Dirty.  They wanted a mustache on the forefinger.

So, if you've to an idea for a custom glove for your team or event or shop or company, etc.

Click here and we'll get a design going for you, the minimum is only 50 pair:

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/start-a-project

---

163.5
7.6 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 24 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

ON THE START LINE IT’S INEVITABLE TO ASK, What the heck am I doing here?  We know the pain ahead, the unknown treachery of the elements and competitors.  There is only one way to remain calm and feel serene…

… as the announcer counts down.

Close your eyes, say a little prayer if you like, and envision your RaceDay Calendar™.

You knew back then what it would take to get you to the line, ready to slay the day.  Like a general at war, you marshalled your most valuable commodity, time, and made this happen.

You...

Registered and did

All you could do.

Committed to the process.

Expect good things happen.

Reviewed every training ride and low-level race to get here.

You’re a RACER.

Some of you, knowing things would get hairy, tapped into our training and accountability…

… the dynamic daily check in.

• For 10 minutes, you jumped on a call with 9 other racers.
• Reported your stats from the day before
• Your plans for the day ahead.
• As you listened to the 9 others, your motivation grew.
• You made new friends and allies.
• You became bulletproof.

You’re ready my fine, inspiring friend…

… RaceDay Ready!™

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

There are 3 tools I use to achieve maximum success.

1. The strategies in my book, The Way of The RACER.
2. The RaceDay Calendar™
3. The RaceDay Ready™ training and dynamic Accountability call.

Check it out here:  https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

163.5
7.2 hrs
1 Pull Ups + 24 Power PushUps + 24 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

I'M WELL ACQUAINTED WITH TWO NASTY HABITS.  You might have your own demons, too.  But, these aren't drinkin' er smoking' er foolin' around...

... there just plain nasty.

You might not have developed these habits, but you might want to.

I work on 'em all the dern time.

The first I was reminded of when one of my padwans checked in after the weekend's race.  He hadn't raced in a few years, and certainly not a crit.  Since I'm helping him get ready for Gran Fondo Nationals, I want him to race as much as possible...

... because there are some really nasty racers out there.

How'd it go Satterdee?

Oh, not too good.

Wha' happened.

They started real hard and I got dropped.

Nasty habit numero uno:  start fast, make it hard, eject the unprepared.

The second nasty habit I was reminded of riding tonight.  I'd run into the great Hoffy.  I've never trained with or witnessed up close a racer more capable of this...

... lowdown, no-good, sunnuvagun maneuver.

If you ever managed to get in a break with him, heck if you just did training rides with him, he'd subject you to the worst experience of your life by blasting so hard over the top you'd swear he just might lift off and keep going to the moon.

Nasty habit numero dos:  always, always, always crush it over the top.

There you have it, two nasty habits that if perfected can crush the spirits of any racer.

How do I practice them?

Sometimes I leave the house (not always on purpose) with no option but to go full gas from the very first pedal stroke because if I don't I know I won't make it to the meet up with the posse.

And, when training alone I love to really push hard over ever climb simply because

... it hurts a lot.

Remember...

... If they ain't gonna lead, make 'em bleed.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

Do you have my to 3 tools for success on RaceDay?

You should.

Shouldn't ya?

Click here.

---

162.5
7 hrs
18 Pull Ups + 32 Power PushUps + 32 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

OK, I'VE BEEN A FUNK ALL DAY.  Could just be getting back in the swing of work things after a week of racing, but I think it's more.  To be perfectly honest...

... I'm ticked!

It started with the 2 second places at the road stage race.

I know what you're thinking.

You should be happy with second.

I'm not.   

I have collected an otherworldly amount of 2nd place finishes.  It's to the point Surfergirl hesitates to ask...

... yes, it's that freakin' bad.

Of course, I would be thrilled if I didn't think I had a chanceinhell of winning.  

But, I won both of those stages 3 years ago.  It was pretty much the same guys except for Dougie... and I know his M.O. is to attack and get away.  I really screwed it up when I let him get away and gambled on the others chasing him down...

... I mean really screwed that up on the road race.

The subsequent circuit race had a $#!|show ending.  

There was nothing I could do about the race official's terrible decision to stop us 2 miles before the sprint vs a lap earlier.  I don't think I could have handled it any better than I did.  Going from a near standstill, with a target on my back, was difficult...

... it just stung to get pipped at the line.

The icing on the cake, of course, was not listening to my spidersense and rolling with only 20lbs in my rear tire at The Cactus Cup MTB race Saturday.  I'm just too much of a charger to pussyfoot it across the rocks.

Instead of a hardearned podium on a tough course against some real MTB ninjas...

... I did a 3 mile walk of shame.

Pushing my bike while my competitors mockingly (in my mind) rushed by, along with every other man, woman and child...

... really. really, really, really stunk. 

To add to my pain, I have learned that Mavic, the makers of this fine rear wheel which I have absolutely loved...

... apparently isn't even operating in the US at the moment.

Am I screwed regarding their advertised lifetime warranty????

So, there you have it...
... I'm an angry old man today.

It has nothing to do with disrespecting my competitors and everything to do with...
... my high expectations for myself!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

Good thing we received a new shipment of gloves today...

... retail therapy is real, even for me the maker.

Sometimes I wonder if you realize how much I put into every product we develop and sell.  

Take these gloves

• 5 iterations until I was satisfied with the fit
• Real leather palm, perforated for breathing
• Heat sensitive thread on the fingertips for operating phone screens
• Stretchy, breathable mesh on the top.
• Fit so good, you'll forget you're wearing them.

And, yes, we can make them for your team... check out the bottom pic

The last pair we made for our friends at Quick N Dirty, promoters of some of my favorite MTB races.

So, yeah, I kept a pair for myself.

Remember, all gloves are buy one get one... just add them to your cart and the discount is automatic at check out.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

---

164.7
8 hrs
18 Pull Ups + 16 Power PushUps + 30 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

I'VE BEEN THINKING ABOUT THE LAST 10 DAYS FOR ABOUT A YEAR.  Racing two 3-day stages races on back to back weekends in AZ...

... what could be better?!

The rolling terrain means fast, fast racing.

Nothing slow.

No grinding.

That's the way I like it.

Home now, I'm feeling super blessed to have been able to pull it off.  

• To realize my latest training tweaks are real breakthroughs
• To hang with friends I only see when traveling
• To do some fun riding between the races
• To camp out in the middle of nowhere
• To get some pretty good results

I'll miss the quiet mornings and evenings, the expansive vistas and the clear, clean air...

... yep, feeling very fortunate.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-raceday-ready

Are you on track for the upcoming season?

If not, I highly recommend our Accountability program.  You can demo it for free, starting Tuesday 3/15.

Use this promo code: ACCOUNTABILITYDEMO

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-silver-20-mo

---

163ish (no scale)
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats (minimumish day)
0 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

 

I WAS SO SMUGLY CONFIDENT IT WOULD BE A GOOD DAY.  I'd held back in the TT, legs felt great, bike was perfect...

... but I ignored my spider sense.

And, it cost me.

Before I get there, here's a quick run down of the race. 

As our group advanced towards the start line for our wave, an official stopped us.  

We're gonna call up the top 10 first, the next 20 fastest can fill in behind, and the rest of ya's after that.

Gotta be honest, it's pretty cool getting called up to the start line.

1 minute!

30 seconds!

5-4-3-2-1...

... the local AZ stud pins on Go!

The first mile or so, it's one long charging centipede.

After the first, and only, stinging climb, it's pretty much over.  Six of us are out of site...

... I feel great.

Historically, I'm shelled at this point.  Not today.  

Rider 5 blows.

Rider 4 blows.

I close gaps, but the pressure is just to much.

FluorescentGreenJerseyGuy rolls by and I jump on, and we're off.  Nobody else is even close...

... the lead 3 are pulling away, the two of us are rocking.

In review, I see a lot of PRs.

I still feel really good, and I'm very happy to not have the Wahoo... 

... racing on feel and an occasional glance at my Apple Watch.

Here's where the pride brings me down...

First,

The Mini RaceDay Bag™ 2.0 turned out really great.  It's just super clean the way it mounts.  I love the way it holds everything silently.  I'm real proud of the way it looks on my bike.  Racy.

One problem.

I had it all set up for road, meaning all the dynaplugs were road ready.  Sure I had the fat heads for MTB, but they weren't locked and loaded.

Second,

FluorescentGreenJerseyGuy sits on my wheel for a long, long time.  To be fair, I'd done the same.  But, when I gallantly pulled through I was sure to do it at a pace he could latch on.

When he passed me, after 40 minutes of following, he went hard.  Gapped me.  It happens, you rest and rest and rest and ya just can't resist making a strong move.

I know that.

So, I watched him ease ahead...

... then stop gaining...

... with the top of a 1 mile, rocky climb in sight, I closed the gap and jumped him for the equally rocky down hill.

Went as fast as I could.

He is a really good bike handler and stayed glued.

There was only one more really rocky descent and I was still in front.  I purposely went as fast as I could hoping he would flat.

Oops.

Not a good idea.

I flatted.

Are you keep track of my pride?  Didn't check my equipment set up and figured I could force him to flat because I have had such good luck with my tires.

That's just stupid.

I got busy fixing the flat.  It took 6 or 7 minutes, 1.5 air cartridges, 4 dynaplugs.

After about 3 minutes 5th and 6th place went by.

3ish minutes later I finally got the tire to hold air.

And here comes the greed.

I was concerned the tire might not seal, so I didn't use that last 1/2 of the canister. 

I should have.

While I was back up to speed, going as hard or harder than I did on the TT yesterday, I passed 6th place then I passed AZ stud who'd also flatted.  

Back up to 4th.

If only I hadn't been so greedy and anxious to make up lost time.  I would have heeded that rear wheel's screams for more air.

Instead, I nailed another rock with such excellent precision that a shattered the rim.

Lessons learned:

• Check, doublecheck, triplecheck all equipment.
• Slow the heck down and repair the bike properly before hauling off.
• Always listen to the Spidersense which was yelling You need more than 20lbs for this course!!!

In the shouldacouldawoulda world, there was a podium spot waiting for me.  3rd for sure, but I'm pretty sure I'da won a sprint up the long straightaway.

Oh, one more lesson...

... I do better ignoring the data and just racing my dern bike.

The Wahoo (which I found in the wrong pocket of my RaceDay Bag™) is great for training rides, but I am confident I'm faster without it during really intense racing.

That's just me.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/mini-raceday-bag-2-0

You might be asking why I don't have a Mini RaceDay Bag™ 2.0 for each bike.  The answer to that is, I'm running the prototype and the first batch is in sewing right now.

Doesn't that look sharp!

That black strap is printed, and yes, absolutely yes, we can print it in your team colors.

Order here:

https://pedalindustries.com/products/mini-raceday-bag-2-0

163ish (no scale)
7.75 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling 

WE ALL HAVE OUR SUPERSTITIOUS BELIEFS.  Some are rituals we Have to do, others drinks or foods or warm ups.  Even if we think we are rational...

... we aren't, as much as we think.

I'm okay with that.

Conceiving is believing is achieving.

It's a well worn trail to enlightment and confidence.

But, when one of our Gotta haves is missing it can throw us off our game...

... really mess with our heads.

Then we have a choice.

Believe all is lost or potentially breakthrough to a new way of doing things.

I have found breaking the superstitions to generally be a good way to develop what was once a potential skill into something I know and can depend on.

Case in point:

During my travels to these races I've managed to misplace my Wahoo.  How you ask? By not putting it back in the proper pocket of my RaceDay Bag™.  Oops.

If there was ever a time to use a computer to track our efforts, it's Saturday's 40 miles MTB race.  From experience, I know there will be hours when I'm alone.  That would be an ideal time to lean on the HR monitor for pacing.

I do have my Apple Watch.  I can glance at it occasionally, but not as easily or safely at speed, off road..

TBH, I wish I had the Wahoo.  It's useful.  I trust it.

There are two choices:

• cry, Wo is me, all is lost
• or, F' that... it probably kept me from going fast enough anyway.

By now, you know me well enough to know how I'll play... 

... and how I recommend you play it.

As I state in my book, Expect good things to happen. 

---

I wrote the above earlier today, before the TT in the afternoon.  

Riding purely on feel, I started out slower than last year but managed to PR the course.  I'm pretty happy with that, and encouraged to ride on feel tomorrow.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer 

Dominic, from New Jersey, introduced himself to me at the Cactus Cup venue this morning.  He had one of my book flyers in his hand, wrinkled.

Do you have any books?

Oh man, no I don't.

Shame on you.

I'm sorry, and thanks for the reminder.  You can always order it and pay the shipping.

I know, just wanted a signed copy.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer  

163ish (no scale)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
1- minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

PROS ARE SO GOOD AND TRAVEL SO MUCH, they often don't pre-ride a course.  They don't need to.  We do, and here's how to do it...

... in a pro way.

Nearly all of us have had the exhilarating and nerve-racking opportunity to be in a school/community play.

We get the line(s) and memorize at home.

It's all great until the dress rehearsal.

That's where we find out just how nervous we are, how hard it is to remain focused...

... and deliver that dang part!

We go home, practice some more.

The next dress rehearsal goes better.

Repeat they cycle a few more times...

... and a star is born!

Think of your intervals, your bike prep, loading your RaceDay Bag™, etc as memorizing your lines...

... perfect all of it.

Get out to the course as early as possible and pre-ride it as close as possible to your raceday set up...

... this is your dress rehearsal.

Take note of everything:

• Weather
• Angle of sun
• Terrain surface
• Exit and entrance angles on turns
• Final miles
• Duration
• etc

And, if possible, repeat the cycle a few more times.

Can't get out there early?  Read up on it.  Look for videos.  Search out others who have raced the course.  There is a lot that can be done remote.

Too many of us forget our lines on raceday...

... lose our minds and blow it.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

I was happy to see a lot of PEDALindustries gloves and socks on the warm up today.

Lots of colors to choose from, in Men's and Women's sizes.

Perfect for your next dress rehearsal and on sale right now...

... buy the gloves and socks, and the socks will be $0 at check out.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/socks-and-gloves

163ish (no scale)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

THERE IS A THICK LINE BETWEEN TRAINING and Whattheheck are you doing to our relationship?  If it was a fine line, we'd be fine.  But, it's thick...

... and easy to ride on.

Which can be a problem because riding that line sends all the wrong signals to those we love.  

If it were skinny, like a parking lot line, we'd fall one way or the other.  It is a lot more like the road paved to hell...

... wide and welcoming.

I was reminded of that today when the above pic came in.  Surfergirl and EasyE's lover shot us a picture of them suffering through another day without us...

... just look at those smiles.

They are beyond missing us and our goofy diets, obsessive resting, and wandering in and out during the day from bike to work to gym to work, and so on...

... a break is good from time to time.

I was careful to schedule a surf trip with her before I left, and have time set aside to surf with her in preparation for the adventure...

... she's never been more supportive.

Of course, it's planned right in between a giant racing block and the start of my insane Leadville quest...

... just don't tell her that.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

The giant RaceDay Calendar™ isn't just for plotting out world domination...

... it's great making sure all the important stuff happens all year long.

Have you ordered yours yet...

... or are you the type that wings?

Plan your work, work your plan.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

163ish (no scale)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

SHOULD EX-PROS BE RACING AMATEUR AGE GROUPS?  This came up twice over the weekend.  And, I have a definite opinion which I'm guessing...

... 50% of you are going to hate.

In the 40+ men's race, an ex-pro crushed the time trial, soloed most of the road race, and did the same thing in the circuit race.

It wasn't close, at all.

That's an ex-pro road racer.  

We also have many ex-pros from other sports who pick up bike racing and start ripping it up and blowing everyone away. 

My opinion?

First, I think it's weird that anybody regularly signs up for any kind of competition and handily destroys all comers.

Where is the fun in that?

Battling is fun.  Being pushed to your limits is fun.  Winning is fun...

... but, not when it's a lock...

... unless it's your livelihood.

To me, that's just weird.

I think that's why you see many "older" lifelong bicycle racers, Ned and Tinker come to mind, who still race pro.

Second, I flipping love seeing these "seasoned" racers still killing it.  Whether it's as an age-grouper or racing pro...

... it freakin' inspires the helloutta me, and gives me hope to maintain what the good lord gave me to work with.

Third, there aren't a million of these cats anyway.

Which means, we all have a very good chance of sharing the podium with a legend...

... and that is about as cool as it gets in my book.

I searched and searched for the podiums with me and Tinker, no luck, you'll have to trust me. 

That's Jeff Ward above, Supercross World champ and Indy car racer sharing the podium with me last year at CritCross...

... and I'm dang happy to rub shoulders and become friends with this caliber of athlete.

Who knows, maybe I'll outlast them, 
or they'll have a really bad day,
or a mechanical breakdown,
and I'll get the V.

Which brings it all back to this...

... stop comparing yourself.

Winning is nice, PRs are better...

... only you know if you gave your best.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-silver-20-mo

If you're having trouble staying the course,

if you're looking for massive improvement,

If you like hanging out with people really going for it

Click here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-silver-20-mo

163ish (no scale)
8.2 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling 

I COULD ONLY LAUGH.  After chasing down multiple attacks, and doing my galdarn bestest to keep things together and fast...

... I was called a wheelsucker.

Oh, the horror!

A sprinter, with no teammates, and limited timetrialing ability accused of being a wheelsucker...

... no shyte Shylock.

But, really, what is a wheelsucker?

Sure, it's someone who is trying to spend the least amount of energy possible and get a good result...

... which everybody does to differing degrees.

If someone is sucking your wheel, it sucks.  Totally.

You're working, they aren't (as much).

You're strong, they're cautious...

... or trying to wear you down
or get in your head
or intimidated by your reputation of dispatching mere mortals
or they're just hanging on as best they can.

How do you get rid of a wheelsucker?  

• Just like Dougie did on Saturday, attack attack attack until you get away.
• Sit up, let them by and suck their wheel.
• Send teammates on the attack to wear the suckers out.

Whatever you do, don't get mad.

They're racing their race, you race yours.  Make you're own luck...

... and heavens sakes, realize it's a compliment to your obvious superior power.

Which reminds me, I have a brutal XC race on Saturday.  3ish hours.  There's no wheelsuckery in mountain biking...

• Strongest rider
• With best handling skills
• Who's bike stays together
• And has a superior nutrition strategy

... always wins.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/racedayready-bronze-5-mo

Did you like this?

Then, check this, https://pedalindustries.com/products/racedayready-bronze-5-mo

---

163ish (no scale)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats (minimumish day)
20 minutes recovery
75 minutes reading + Journaling 

WELLLLLLL, AFTER A HOT SHOWER AND SOME TIME TO REFLECT, I've driven back to the circuit race to soak in the vibe.  We had an interesting finale, leaving many heads shaking...

... and me asking, how could we fix it?

It's not just the issue we had, it's bigger.

But, here's a specific example.

On the final lap, after 90 minutes of racing, after covering moves and fighting for position the pro field came by us...

... with 2 miles to go.

I'm a sprinter, and as any sprinter can tell you, the final 2 miles have a lot of drama.  Everybody with a shot wants to be in the perfect position, and we're all counting on the speeds to remain high...

... instead the race official reined us to a near stand still.

When all the pros and their caravan of cars were final through, we had about a mile to go.  Frankly, I didn't care to much because we were still all in about the same position...

...  but, that's not how a lot of guys felt.

There was much yelling for a protest finish.  Their big idea was to slowly roll in together.

And, I'm thinking What the hell?  Protest what?  We invested a lot of money and time to be here:  entry fees, travel, lodging, training, gear and bikes. All told, it's an embarrassing amount...

... to let go to waste.

Meanwhile, the 60 guys behind the boisterous, whiney lead 20 have no clue what's going on up front, and when we make the final turn and the road opens up they come galloping through like an unruly herd of buffalo.

Not ideal.

So, what would I do if I was king of USA Cycling?

I would expand my kingdom and take care of my people.  

Here's how:

Bring in professional staff

In most cases, races are put on by a local promoter who knows the community and the ins and outs of getting things done.  Bonus points for those promoters able to obtain significant sponsorship cash.

The execution of the event on race day can be overwhelming, this I know from personal promoting experience.  Having professional staff come in and take care of logistics would be an incredible help.  More importantly, it could standardize the product being offered.

Most promoters are part-time at best.  They are awesome in every way.  However, it's an awful lot to ask volunteers with little to no knowledge of racing to take care of hundreds of wound up competitors on raceday.

How to do this?  Charge more.  

As pointed out above, the entry fees are minuscule compared to everything else we put in to it as competitors.  

What about  promoters who have enough races to have staff?  Listen to the input and ideas they have to bring everybody's offering to a new, higher level.  

Most of us have been to an event like Leadville or BWR or QuickNDirty or OverTheHump or CBR and know what a quality experience it can be.  Those events, and many others are thriving.  They aren't cheap and it shows in the product delivered.

In addition to staff, I'd bestow the local promoters with sponsorship dollars from our national parters and let them keep any local sponsorship money for themselves.  In other words, I'd do everything possible to make sure a reasonable profit was turned vs. a stinging loss of cash.

Own Community and The Data

Part of this equation would be to have ALL races in one database.  Easy to find events, with a standard format for navigating everything from Registration to arrival at the Start line.

Further, all racers would listed there.  We could easily see who our competitors are and this wouldn't be just for seeing what they are up to.  It would be the place for racers to connect.  So many times I've met a really cool cat at a far away race and never been able to easily stay in touch. 

How to do this?  Offer this for technology free to the promoters and racers.

Use an ad driven model to boost the hundred or so we already kick in.  It doesn't have to be spammy, carefully curated ads from companies who love what we do and make things we would love to have could be wonderful.

Race Numbers

Can't we all have a permanent race number?

3 characters - numbers and letters.

Then, we can have a standardized race number size and print it right on our jerseys.

No more pins.

No more giant numbers covering our pockets.

No more ruined jerseys with a million pin holes and tears.

No more race officials yelling at the poor racer who failed to follow their particular race's peculiar number placement.

Racer check in would be much smoother, too.

A Final Word

We all love our sport.  All our lives have been changed and generally improved.  We are healthier than most of the population and have made terrific friends.  

We all want it to grow.

Everybody.

Promoters.

Racers.

Fans.

You.

Me.

Oh, and for those of you still reading, with all the chaos of the final mile I managed another 2nd place...

... and I'm pretty happy about that.

Got a different opinion?  Something to add?  I'm down to collect all ideas and consolidate before sending to the real king.

---

Pulled off the dark desert highway.  My head heavy, and my sight dim.

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This changing poncho always reminds me of my times racing in the desert.

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---

163ish (no scale)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats (minimumish day)
0 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

THERE ARE TWO THINGS I LOVE ABOUT RACING IN TUCSON, things we don't have in my parts.  There are also things we do have, and I was reminded of them as I pulled into Waffle House...

... at 5am.

A shadowy figure had crossed road and headed towards the same door I was pointing for.  

He got there first.

Opened the door, but didn't go in.

As I squeezed past, I could see he was young.  The dark circles under his eyes needed rest.  Tattoos encircled his neck.

I ordered my usual, which is only my usual here because no Waffle House in CA.

He stood looking in, his dark skin and hair barely visible.

I opened the door.

Are you hungry.

A nod.

Come in.

Order whatever you want.

He was silent. Was it the fatigue, the cold?  I don't know.

Miss, please double my order.

This early, they only prepare orders to go.  

I sat back and listened to the sweet, soft spoken voice of this young man.

Do you have a phone?

In the car.

He turned to the server.

Do you know how to get to the halfway house?  A church, for rehab.

Eventually, the cook pipped up with directions.

My food was ready.  I hesitated, should I give him a ride?  What kind of delay would that be for my race? Shamefully, I drove away...

... thinking of my own kids.

Would they have ended up on this troubled path if they'd had a different upbringing?  I thought about him, would he have a degree and an enjoyable career?  A stable, loving relationship?

I'll never know because I'm just racing through life right now, feeling like I've done my part...

... but, maybe there is more to do?

The race went well.

My pal Doug did his thing and eventually broke away, putting 2 1/2 minutes on us.  I did my thing and snagged 2nd place and moved up to 6th on GC...

... which only served to remind me, everybody needs a second chance.

The desire to reach out to the less fortunate when I return is strong right now.  The pressures of running a business are sequestered, and I'm an emotional guy.  I know for a fact my own church has just the place for me to plug in and do what I can in my own town...

... just gotta commit.

Oh, and that other thing I love about Tucson...

Now this is chicken soup!

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---

163ish (no scale)
6.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats (minimumish day)
40 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

 

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THE LAST TIME I RACED TUCSON, the opening stage was a short time trial.  Today it was even shorter.  A real prologue...

... 8ish minutes, all out.

Who ever practices that?

Not me, but apparently some do...

... and they were really fast.

Unless you are a true specialist, or at least practice it a bit, doing any kind of prologue or time trial is a total mind screw.

• You know you're not great, why try?
• You know it's short, why not go for it?
• You know stages races are usually one by ripping the timed event, why not save it for the other days?

I don't think you get the picture.  You think you do.  But, you might not.  Because those thoughts aren't just entertained during breakfast.

They start as whispers the moment you sign up.  Very quiet.  Easy to ignore, but they come back.  And, if you're a not a specialist you dissuade yourself of believing you have a chance.

Unfortunately, with an hour to go the thoughts return.  Not quiet.  Yelling.  Commanding you to make up your mind.

You warm up, trying to avoid engaging your thoughts.

Do it.
Don't do it.  

Go for it.  
Take it easy.  

You have a chance!
Save it for tomorrow.

When you roll up to the line and the official clock is counting down, it's deafening. Which devil is going to take control...

... the charger or the lackey?

You hear the beep, stop on the pedals and say to yourself...

... F this, I'm going for it!

A few minutes in, it really starts to hurt.  The lackey tries to come up for air, but the charge in you throttles him with every racing thud of your beautifully beating heart...

... gawd, I feel fantastic!

So, here's what I learnt:

• I am ok at this
• I should practice it a bit
• I'm in pretty good shape considering the last few months
• And... 15 seconds out of first with a very, very slim chance of still making the podium in the overall.

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---

163ish (no scale)
8
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats (minimumish day)
40 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

PULLING INTO TUCSON THIS EVENING, I WONDERED IF THIS WOULD BE MY LAST ROAD RACE?  I mean, I just drove 7 hours to do a road race...

... there just aren't any options in SoCal.

Kinda makes ya wonder, what if tomorrow was your last race...

... and you knew it?

In fact, what if you'd known for a few months...

... tomorrow is the very last one, ever?

Would you be kinder to the volunteers or more dismissive?

How early would you get to the start?

How intensely would you train?

Would you embrace your long-time competitors or be aloof?

Would you attack from the gun or patiently wait for things to unfold?

Would you focus on the wheel in front of you or drown in the sounds of hubs, chains and rims?

If there was a mishap would you stop or hammer on?

Would you leave nothing to chance or be nonchalant in your prep?

Would you bike be pristine or worn out?

How important would it be to win?

What if you lost?

And that's the problem with the last race...

... it could always be tomorrow.

---

162.9
7
6 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats
0 minutes recovery
40 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

THERE REALLY IS A CULTURAL DIVIDE.  You notice when talking with others, particularly if they haven't see you for a while...

... and don't know what you've been up to.

Happened to me just the other day.

You're really skinny.

I'm lean.

I mean you've lost a lot of weight.

It was mostly fat.

I bet it was hard to do.

Not really.

I hate working out.

I can tell.

Did you have to give up a bunch of food?

Yeah, all the crap that was killing me.

(silence)

Any other questions?

Isn't it great to be weird...

... totally different from them!

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---

163
7.25
6 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

WHO CAN PREDICT A RACE?  Sure there are journos who get way deep into the lives of racers, but rarely do they pick a Tadej...

... before he slaughters everybody.

It's easy to pick him to win now.

When I signed up for the race this weekend and saw the Race Predictor tab I was curious...

... what predictions could it possibly make accurately.

• Most of us haven't raced regularly for 2 year.
• It's earlier season, few have raced this year.
• How could it factor in my having the 'rona in January
• What about work stress
• Family

I scanned the list.  

My friend Doug is on there, 6 predicted places below me.  He's been whacking me every weekend this year.  Leaving me for dead on the group rides.  Plus, he's raced already this year, and 11 times last year...

... compared to my zero.

Wait..

... hold on.

Race Predictor somehow has me winning 2 fat bike time trials in 2021...

... in Iowa!

Never been there, never ridden a fat bike.

 

All I can say is...

... don't believe the hype.

Nobody really knows how ready you are but you.

Sure, I can and will, look at the Race Predictor but only for the purpose of looking up the most recent results.  Like this year.  

Even then.

It's a race.

The unknown is what makes it so dadgum fun!

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Accountability is one of the keys to getting results.

That's why I've created this new Accountability Call.  If you have a big race on the horizon.

... you ought to take me up on this offer.

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Yep, a free 2 week demo.

You have to do the following:

• Be willing to give something up if you fail to show up each day.
• Have a big Why
• Have a clearly defined result you want to achieve

If that's you, click the link below.

I'd love to have you join us.

We start on 3/15.

Do it!

Use this promo code: ACCOUNTABILITYDEMO

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---

162.5
7.25
6 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, not only did the steel rod go through my tire and through my rim tape, but right on through the side of the sexy deep dish...

... perfect time.

Because nothing says Yipee like a trashed race wheel a few days before what will likely be the only road race I do this year.

Who doesn't wanna be scrambling for parts when they could calmly be sipping a cool drink on the coach?

I called Enve.

Ya think I could ride it? (the hope in my voice was pathetic).

No sir.

You're sure?

Yessir.

How long to get a replacement?

Oh, 2 days to process your claim and get you an RA number, then 2 days to ship it here, 4-5 days to lace up a new wheel for ya, couple a days to get it back to ya.

Hmmmm.

When do you need it?

In two days.

Sorry man.

Yeah, me too.  I'll get it up to you as quick as possible.  Thanks for taking care of it.

You bet.

I've put the feelers out for a loaner, and I'm actually hopeful my gravel wheel isn't too wide.  The hubs are the same, so is the disc.  I'll figure that out tomorrow.

Is there a lesson in there?

Yeah, I think so.  Purchasing product from a serious company will always lead to a good warranty solution.  It may not be as quick as we'd like, but to think Enve is going to get me a new rim at no cost is flipping unbelievable.

Will it matter at the race?

I hope not.

Can't imagine anything coming down a half a second...

... only one way to find out.

Now, some folks might use this as a reason not to race.  Or, perhaps, dog it.  Not me.  I'm holding myself accountable.

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Accountability is one of the keys to getting results.

That's why I've created this new Accountability Call.  If you are looking for a way to stay on track, keep progressing, and not backslide...

... you ought to take me up on this offer.

Try the Accountability Call for free.

Yep, a free 2 week demo.

You have to do the following:

• Be willing to give something up if you fail to show up each day.
• Have a big Why
• Have a clearly defined result you want to achieve

If that's you, click the link below.

I'd love to have you join us.

We start on 3/15.

Do it!

Use this promo code: ACCOUNTABILITYDEMO

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-silver-20-mo

---

164
7.25
6 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

YOU HAVE A CHOICE TODAY, and it's not do nothing.  Do nothing is for donothings and that's not who we are...

... we are doers.

Which means we can pick one of three, but we gotta pick one:

• The minimum
• A good amount
• World class.

There are times when we just can't put in the miles we want to put in.

Don't fret.

The minimum will suffice.

Things will change, open up...

... and we'll get to those good amount and world class days.

Figure out your minimum and make it happen, no matter what.

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Speaking of minimum, the KOM jacket is very minimalist.  

Perfect for those days when you just want to keep the wind off of ya...

... it's my goto this time of year.

Saturday, I had it tucked in my pocket going up the climb.  It was chilly, and gusty, but I was working hard.  

Didn't need it...

... until I headed back down.

Best part, it's very aero for a jacket.

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---

162.4
8
12 Pull Ups + 12 Power PushUps + 12 Heavy Squats (minimumish day)
20 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling 

I PULLED OVER TO LET A TRAIN OF RIDERS COMING DOWN PASS.  The etiquette is to allow the uphill rider to continue, but the trail was skinny with a good drop to the side...

... the riders were struggling.

Pressing upward would be pressing my luck and theirs.

They were gripping for their lives.

Who hasn't been there?  

Who hasn't enjoyed showing off their new MTB skills while their friends panic...

... cheap entertainment at it's best.

Some never return.

The rest repeat until perfected.

Which brings me to my adjusted workout plan.  Original plan was a vicious road group ride, nixed by a small steel rod I discovered buried in my rim.  Too late to fix that, I quickly altered a backup plan...

... repeats on said 1 hour 2500' climb.

Here's what happens when you do repeats:

• You learn the trail better each time
• Which allows you to clean the technical sections
• Resulting in being able to look further up the trail
• Looking further ahead always smooths out our riding

Repeats = Speed

One objective I had was to go as fast the second time up and back as I did the first time...

... no, I wasn't doggin' it.

1:35:28 the first time

1:36:59 the second time.

Not bad.

I considered a third attempt, at a more moderate pace, then elected to keep it to a 4 hour ride...

... mainly because I'm racing the next two weekends.

And, yes, I plan to get out there early and ride some or all of the courses because...

... repeats = speed.

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---

161.4
7.7
6 Pull Ups + 6 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling