SOME PEOPLE YOU CRINGE TO INVITE ALONG FOR THE RIDE.  You know the ones, they are needy, bike is always slightly lacking, forgetting to bring the essentials.  I just wanna scream...

... Get your shift together!

But, I don't.  

I have mercy.

I use to be like them.

Then, I had an epiphany.

What if I had a bag that was also a checklist and would keep me super organized...

... I'd remember to bring, and could easily find, everything!

Yep, that's how the RaceDay Bag™ was born, out of pure necessity to make packing easy...

.. and raceday a calm affair.

Nary a day passes I don't get a message that goes like this...

Diesel, my buddy forgot his ______.  I just looked at him in disgust, he's seen my bag at least a million times.

Thanks for making my life easier.

To which I always respond, This makes me so happy.

Because it does bring me great joy to make life easier for cats like us.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts/products/stamp-logo-pedalindustries-white-and-kelly-green?variant=34486613901473

I know I should make a pitch to get the bag here, but you already have one.

You might, however, need a green t-shirt for the upcoming holiday season...

... and have I got a deal for you.

50% off, use this code: GREEN

Code expires Friday.

Here's the link:  

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts/products/stamp-logo-pedalindustries-white-and-kelly-green?variant=34486613901473

165.8
8 hrs  
Gym Work
Stretch/Hypervolt
60 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6272204878

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

SERIOUS QUESTION:  Should we have more and more and more tech in racing?  I've just reading this article about Froome being all geeked up on a realtime glucose measurement tool...

... It will change racing more than power meters, he exclaims.

But, is that a good thing?

I think the tech makes racing less interesting.  Less chaotic.  Less dramatic.  

The  biggies I've seen:

• HR monitors
• Radio comms
• Power meters

Think on that.

HR and Power meters to tell you how hard to go.  Race radios to tell you what's happening in the race and what to do.  Glucose meter to tell you when to eat...

... imagine some dork whispering, Drink 2.5 ounces.

Rubbish.

Let them race on feel, 
make them read the race themselves,
let 'em bonk...
... keep it real, keep it human.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday%E2%84%A2-calendar

It's getting time to start thinking about next year...

... and get your giant wall calendar.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday%E2%84%A2-calendar

---

167.2
8 hrs 
10 PullUps 20 Pushups
Stretch/Hypervolt
75 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6266586562

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I JUST BOUGHT A "GET BETTER SOON" CARD for one of my racing friends. 

He isn't sick...

... I just think that he needs to get better.

The end.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday%E2%84%A2-calendar

It's getting time to start thinking about next year...

... and get your giant wall calendar.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday%E2%84%A2-calendar

WE STOPPED BY TO SEE A LONG LOST FRIEND TODAY.  Way back when, we'd all lived at the Whiting Ranch trailhead.  The ladies joined the Trail Angels, the dudes joined the Warrior's Society...

... we rode, we raised kids.

We learned of the recent tragic and sudden passing of their grown child.  

An unimaginable situation, the kind where you wish you nearby...

... today we were traveling through.

She was alone, spouse off to work trip.

It's hard to explain the bonds that form along our rides.  Kindred spirits, intertwined.  Miles down the road, we pick up where we left off.

We listened,
we hugged,
we wept.

We may never fully comprehend or accept unanticipated hardships as we ride through mortality...

... but, we keep pedaling and loving and being loved by those we meet along the way.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday%E2%84%A2-calendar

It's getting time to start thinking about next year...

... and get your giant wall calendar.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday%E2%84%A2-calendar

IS THERE ANYTHING BETTER THAN A NICE RIDE THROUGH THE DESERT IN LATE FALL?  Not really.  The first 90 minutes with Surfergirl was perfect.  Fast, flowy, rolly, fun.  Then came the ol'...

... You don't mind if I ride a little more, right?

What could go wrong?

75 and sunny.

2 bottles.

See ya!

I wanted to hit the Zen trail.

Last time I rode was 6 years ago, the True Grit 50. It's a helluva trail.  Lots and lots of sharp jagged rocks. Massive desert vistas.  Some cactus.  There is nothing like it back home.

It's slow.

Like a chess match,
the ancient rock is constantly checking our momentum. 

One must be calm,
unhurried. 

Strong,
yet flexible.

I love it!

However, one outta put some extra PSIs in the tires.  I'd already rimmed out a few times ripping the fast stuff on the desert floor.  Up here on the mesa I was keenly aware of the vicious rocks and keeping things in check...

... picking my way, nimbly.

But, it wasn't enough.

All it takes is one jagged rock at just the right angle and you can be just like me...

... hiking 4 miles in stiffsoled MTB shoes over rugged terrain for 90 minutes.

Pros

• Plenty of time to rethink my tire set up
• Cross train the shoulders to burning point by lugging the bike
•  Have something to write about

Cons

• Feet hurt like hell
• Miss an excellent dinner
• Nearly miss the concert as well

I like a good memory as much as the next cat.  And, a greatly prefer a catastrophic sidewall tear on play day vs raceday.

Chalking this up as a win.

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

For sure, today's ride is the kind you want to protect you fingies, and still be cool.  Take me up on this offer...

BUY THE GLOVES, THE SOCKS ARE FREE.

Mix and match your colors.  I went black gloves, red socks last weekend and looked so sharp the promoter featured this pic.

So, if you dig looking sharp and demand killer gloves and sock performance click this link below... no promo code needed, it's automatically applied at check out.

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

Those dots you see are the perforations all along the top of the glove.  Superduper breathable.

---

166?
8.5 hrs 
0 PullUps 0 Pushups
no stretch
0 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6254138570

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

WE PULLED OFF THE HIGHWAY TO EAT LUNCH, and by happenstance it was an MTB trailhead.  A crusty, ripped ol' dude pulled up on a super sweet Ibis Mojo.  He was wasn't wiry...

... as much as he was sinewy.

A lifetime of adventure radiated his countenance.  Flame and snake tattoos added charm, beginning at his fingers and flickering up to his biceps...

... he'd ridden a few miles, for sure.

Just got this bike.

It's a beaut.

My first full suspension.

Do you love it?

Yes, it just knows where I want to go.  Telepathic control.

Amazing.

But, to be honest, I love all the bikes.  I started riding in the 60s, Schwinn cruisers.  We rode all over these hills.  And just never stopped.

He could have been 60, or 70, or 80.  

I couldn't tell.

Before he left, he looked at us and said...

... It must be nice to be biking vagabonds...

... then drove off in his fancy truck, dream bike inside.

I thought that was funny.  He's aspiring to be like us, who he thinks we are, and we've spent a good portion of the drive to UT trying to figure out how to do these trips more than a few times a year.

New goal:  Biking Vagabond.

WHAT A PARADOX!  The biggest bike race in the world is by far the most boring.  Sure it has drama, but it takes 3 weeks to play out.  Of course it has the best athletes, but it takes 20 days of attrition and luck.  They're trying to remain relevant...

... while gripping hard on tradition.

It's the fringes where we have real action and excitement. 

Certainly, this year, for me, has been a big come to Merckx moment with races that are novel...

... requiring a much larger skill set.

Drafting is nice,
drafting on gravel and sand is rad.

Carving tarmac is swell,
carving on a banked dirt berm is exhilarating.

Single track is fun,
single track on drop bars is trickylicious.

Mixed surface racing is bomb!

Of the 3 biggies, the Vuelta has been the most exciting.  They've had to be different, to stand out.  Now they are on the leading edge of stodgy...

... I think they can do better.

Imagine.

One bike.

A stage race.

One, maybe two, tire choices.

Every day a different type of terrain.

Now that, that my PEDAlposse, would be a helluva race and give us...

... and helluva champion.

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

Of course, they'll be wearing superlight fullfinger gloves.  And you should, too!

Our Black Friday special is BUY THE GLOVES, THE SOCKS ARE FREE.

Mix and match your colors.  I went black gloves, red socks last weekend and looked so sharp the promoter featured this pic.

So, if you dig looking sharp and demand killer gloves and sock performance click this link below... no promo code needed, it's automatically applied at check out.

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

Those dots you see are the perforations all along the top of the glove.  Superduper breathable.

---

166.9
7.5 hrs 
20 PullUps 40 Pushups
Stretch + Hypervolt
60 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6243739019

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

KEVIN WAS IN TOWN TODAY.  He's a long-term thinker.  Like 10 and 20 year plans.  And, unlike most of us...

... he accomplishes the impossible.

So, when he reminded me of his 20+ year goal to go under 9 hours at Leadville at the spry age of 65 I looked at him and said...

Bro, we've got some work to do.

I know.

No, really.

I know, it's just the JoeJoe's from Trader Joes...

You're not going to make it.

Yes, I will.

I don't think so.

Don't steal my joy.

Don't steal my joy, that is a profound statement.  It was almost a command.

Is it stealing his joy to point out the obvious?

Not, if it's honest, loving and supporting his ambition.

He's got to drop at least 30 lbs, probably 40, by radically changing his diet.  That's the opening, obvious move.  Then start lifting, and stretching.  And, get on his mountain bike.

This is going to be so fun to witness, because I know he can do it.  I'm sure of it.  Plus, I'm on a similar quest to go under 9 hours.

We'll be checking in with each other often...

... and that is the secret to accomplishing big shift.

Having a buddy.

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

Of course, it's also important to have a firm hold on your goals and your grips.

Which is why our Black Friday special is BUY THE GLOVES, THE SOCKS ARE FREE.

Mix and match your colors.  I went black gloves, red socks last weekend and looked so sharp the promoter featured this pic.

So, if you dig looking sharp and demand killer gloves and sock performance click this link below... no promo code needed, it's automatically applied at check out.

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

Those dots you see are the perforations all along the top of the glove.  Super breathable.

---

165.3
8 hrs 
25 PullUps 50 Super Pushups + Kettle Bells
Stretch + Hypervolt
55 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6239546029

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I PUT MY MONEY ON BRETT TO GET THE V TODAY, and I was correct.  As usual.  I saw him go to work early, doing fake attack after fake attack.  It was a master class in subterfuge...

... and reminded me of the famous rope a dope fight with Foreman.

So many similarities.

The good looks, the brash swagger.  It was all there, but it had been so long since he'd decimated the ride nobody recognized him.

Instead, they surely wondered what this chunky brute was trying to prove with his weak and unmanly attacks...

... then he was gone.

Just like what Ali did Foreman, hypnotized him into thinking he had everything under control...

... then lights out.

10 miles from the finish line. 

That's a helluva long range attack, considering you've got a fairly frothy bunch of cats all looking to score and PR.

A few more attacked, but none could catch the bull on the loose.

Meanwhile, the rest of us are just looking around to see if anybody in our respective categories is gonna make a break for it or if things will be fairly tame...

up The Wall,
down the canyon,

Nobody made a move of substance until we hit the bottom of the corkscrew.

This is the final effort.

.71 miles.

195' elevation gain, most if it the first .35 mile.

It stings.

A lot.

Many weeks, I pull the plug and cruise across the line.

Not today.

We were all vying for a strong finish.  Even with Brett up the road, plus those other cats. 

'Din't matter.

It was on. 

What started as a ball of energy at the bottom, resembled a strung out line of old jalopies clunking across the line...

... gasping, and wheezing.

All in the name of fun, and a little cash.

Full results are below.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

And yes, you're almost outta time to get a custom RaceDay Bag™ for the holidays:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

167.4
6.5 hrs 
0 PullUps 0 Super
Stretch + Hypervolt
45 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6234464375

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

ONE OF THE BEST TRICKS YOU CAN PULL ON AN UNSUSPECTING FRIEND is to invite them on a ferocious group ride under the guise of it being just a social ride.  It's just so fun, and entertaining...

... which is why we all cave to the temptation on occasion.

Tongue in cheek is always a good time.

Take the name of our local group ride a few of us started 18 years ago:  The Tuesday Morning World Championships.  It's mainly a bunch of cats that like to ride and have actually only raced a handful of times.

To us, the name is a joke.

To the uninitiated the name is intimidating, frightening.

Which is exactly why we tone it down for our annual shindig...

... the unOFFICIAL TMWC. 

We'll do the same course, sprint for the same 15mph sign, come back and do the annual awards.

For most of us, it's the only race we'll do all year...

... other than every other Tuesday in between.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

And yes, you're almost outta time to get a custom RaceDay Bag™ for the holidays:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

165.8
9.5 hrs 
20 PullUps 40 Super PushUps + Kettle Bell
Stretch + Hypervolt
60 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6231909589

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I CAN'T HELP BUT THINK OF THE GREAT DEANDRE COLE this time of year and his classic What's Up With That? Because really!, what is up with the time change...

... and why is DST not ST?

Is it me or wouldn't y'all much rather ride the morning from dark to light than kiss your afternoons good night...

... so dang early?

I reckon it depends on where ya live.  But, where I live I'd much rather be on DST all year long.

Which reminds me of Deandre who always haD to cut his shows off with...

... Well, we outta time!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

And yes, you're almost outta time to get a custom RaceDay Bag™ for the holidays:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

165.1
8 hrs 
13 PullUps 26 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
120 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6227416398

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

RELUCTANTLY CROUCHED AT THE STARTING LINE.  Hearts pumping and thumping in time.  The 30 second sign turns, the green flag waves.  It's a full drag race for the first banked 180 degree turn...

... on go-cart course!

The energy of that start, into the first turn, was electric because the next 1/4 mile was a chicane, a short straight then onto a banked dirt turn to another banked turn and up the finish line jump...

... nearly impossible to pass.

Then back onto the smoothsmooth tarmac for good ol' crit racin', and what a crit course it was.  

A perfect surface.

No road debris.

No cars or trucks.

Just bikes.

Racin'.

And, about two minutes later right back onto the 20ish seconds of dirt again.

That is my friend Eric's creation...

... called CritCross.

Crit and Supercross.

But, not just for the finish line jump.  

We all raced 2 "Motos".  

20 minutes + 2 laps.

Here's how it went for me.

I stuck with my gravel bike, only a few of us did that.  The rest rode road, and I think that was clearly the fastest set up...

... but, i didn't want to soil the new roadie.

The first Moto my technique was terrible.  I haven't raced a crit in years, and I just wasn't confident leaning the bike over.  Plus, those gravel tires are really slow on edge...

... grippy, but slow.

I wound up 7th.

Totally cool, since it's off season for me, and I had zero interest in racing.  Just wanted to check this new thing out.

Moto 2, different story.  

First off, I felt racy. 

Still had a slow start.  That bike is just tough to get up to speed.  Fortunately, this one was clean.  No crashes in front of me.  Within 3 laps I'd worked my way up to the leaders.

Second off, the rust was off the crit skills and I was leaning hard on those tires.  Super grippy.

Wound up third in a three-man break, 35+...

... totally stoked.

Final thoughts...

the format of multiple heats,

the go-cart track,

the dirt section,

and finish line jump...

... made for some of the funnest racing I've had in years.

Oh wait, almost forgot...

... world class announcing,

terrific viewing for all trackside or up above,

and excellent food and drink included...

... Can't wait for the next one!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Yes, I'm still running this promo because we're almost out of time to get for the holidays... and because people keep buying 'em:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

165.2
8 hrs 
0 PullUps 0 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
0 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6221804628

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

FIRST TIME RACERS SOUND A LOT LIKE FIRST TIME PRISONERS TAKING A SHOWER.  And, well, are we surprised?  I mean, who hasn't felt a little bit of What the heck is a nice cat like me...

... doing in a place like this?

All of the sudden whatever bravado we had typing in our cc info for registration is gonzo.  The confidence we oozed after smokin' our outta shape neighbor up the back hill has evaporated.

We lose our minds... 

How was the race?

It was great until the end.

Whadaya mean?

Well, I was riding really hard and feeling really good, leading most of the time until the last lap.

Yeah, then what?

Then a bunch of guys that I'd never seen jumped me and I finished dead last.

And riding like that my friends is like that first prison shower...

... don't drop the soap.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Yes, I'm still running this promo because we're almost out of time to get for the holidays... and because people keep buying 'em:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

164.8
7.5 hrs 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
50 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6217500613

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

ZONE 2, MYTH OR MAGIC?  I do a lot of zone 2 training this time of year.  The benefits are undeniable.  But, only if you know what you're doing...

... few do.

It's a lot more than riding in a zone, and every single, married, and partnered up tri-athlete knows the secret...

... yet, we still often make fun of them.

There's a lot to make fun of, but perfecting zone 2 ain't one of them.  Nope...

... we should worship the ground the run and ride on.

Most cyclists think of zone 2 as a heart rate training zone, and it is...

... but it is much, much more.

What the tri-cats do is they get in the zone...

... and this is the part most cyclists completely miss...

... then focus on going as fast as they can without getting out of the zone.

Do you see the difference?

It's not riding between 120-140, my zone 2...

... it's riding as fast as I can at that rate.

It's about efficiency...

pedal stroke
cadence,
position,
aeroness,
carrying speed,
tire pressure,
fueling,
comfort,

... you got it?

What results is a feeling of being a giant steamroller... immense momentum and power produced with ease and confidence.

I had that exact feeling last Saturday at the Filthy 50.  I started 15 minutes behind everybody, due to a mechanical.  Rather than hit and try and catch, I steamrolled in zone 2 and 3 and spend the next 3+ hours saying... 

... on your left.

That my fine young cannibals is the benefit of zone 2 training from yours Diesely...

... who learned it racing triathlons when I was a wee lad.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Yes, I'm still running this promo because we're almost out of time to get for the holidays... and because people keep buying 'em:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

165.2
7 hrs 
20 PullUps 40 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
45 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6211252872

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

FIGURING OUT WHO TO CHASE IS PRETTY TRICKY.  Choose correctly and things can end well, choose poorly and it could mean finishing far behind our capabilities...

... or, not finishing at all.

There are basically three kinds of people you can chase in a big endurance race.  Assume all three are leaving you behind...

... who's your target?

1. The cat who's quickly going up the road, and riding off into the distance.
2. The cat who's also ripping away, but comes back as the terrain changes.
3. The cat who's slowly easing away.

For me, it's cat #3, the slow easer.  That's the one that is going to make me stretch, but not to the point of blowing up.

Next best is #2 because I'm probably equal or better in certain areas.  The key is to capitalize on those areas and slowly let go.

The worst is #1.  Those cats are on a totally different level, what works for them will not work for me...

... to the point I'll be worse off if I try and match their speed.

Pick wisely.

I HAVE 2 OLD FRIENDS.  They are quite different.  Both are super accomplished racers.  Both are over 30, fer cryin' outloud.  But, as they say age is just an age group category...

... or is it?

One, stopped by to see me.  Moseyed around, picked up a few cutting edge products, passed judgement...

... and left emptyhanded.

The other called me up.

Bro, I'm putting on a race.

Tell me about it.

Well, I rented a go cart track.

Cool, I like a lot of turns.

Yeah, there's that... but, the coolest thing is we are going off the tarmac and onto the dirt.

Really?

Yeah!  A bunch of berms and a finish line jump.

Sounds rad.

Plus, we are racing heats to determine winners.  

Like Supercross.

Yep.

I love it!

One of these guys is actually old, the other forever young...

... don't let your category determine your thinking.

Try new things.

Like this race, if you're around these parts. 

It's called CritCross, get it?  Crit and Supercross. 

Website is here:  https://www.critcross.com/

And bring your RaceDay Bag™.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Yes, I'm still running this promo because we're almost out of time to get for the holidays... and because people keep buying 'em:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

168.4 (nooooooooo!)
6 hrs 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
15 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6201998987

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

WITH ANY LUCK YOU'RE GOING TO MEET SOME COOL PEOPLE.  Especially, if you really get into this endurance bicycle riding and racing thing.  I was looking at my recent text messages...

... and thinking Damn.

Because we have this sense of We're all in this together, and because our community is extremely passionate, it's easy to meet and connect with new people.

But, that's not the cool part.

The cool part is we (all of us) are some really accomplished and awesome people.  We just don't often recognize each other.

Helmets.
Glasses.
Skintight lycra...

... none of that helps.

Next time you're JRA (just riding along) or standing on the start line or hanging around afterwards...

... smile, stick out your hand, and introduce yourself.

Who knows, you might find yourself like me texting with a rocknroll drummer, an NBA star, and a grand tour winner...

... I'm telling ya, this community of ours is rad...

... and wants to meet you, too!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

And just in case you all wind up bunking in the same cabin you might want:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

167.4
8 hrs 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
50 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6197650285

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I WATCHED A BUNCH OF GRAVEL RACING VIDEOS TODAY.  Simon, from GCN, talked about positioning himself up front at the start to allow for sliding space.  Rather than making up ground...

... he prefers to slowly slide back, all day.

But, that got me thinking about the subtle art of reading a race. 

You know, how it's unfolding.

Where the energy is.

The move to watch.

The kind of things coachy and racy people pontificate upon.

I shall do the same with this insightful view to what I see <- I say shift like that just to see if you're paying attention.

How the race unfolds is rarely dictated by the terrain.  Instead, it's the competitors that matter. 

Which, in my unhumble and cocksure opinion, is the point most of ya miss.

Amateurs and rookies worry about how to conquer a race's features.

Pros and victors focus on crushing their foes. 

They aren't reading the terrain, they are reading each other.  Which is just one reason I read a lot of books...

... rarely on bike racing.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Most races are won long before the final sprint.  Here are two things you gotta have:

• a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
• and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

166.4  
10 hrs 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
100 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6193790795

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

TODAY DIDN'T TURN OUT AS PLANNED.  What was supposed to be a ride with my pals, turned out to be 50 miles of soloing, all because I disrespected the course...

... and didn't pre-check my bike!

The Filthy 50 is always challenging for me.  It's late in the year and I'm ready to play, not ready to slay.  We were committed to do it and ride together and enjoy the beautiful course and see the peeps.

But, someone didn't check his electric remote wireless shifter and a full 1/4 mile into the course realized...

... I got no shifting.

Fortunately, in my RaceDay Bag™ I carry a few extra batteries:  the 2032 that powers my chest strap also powers my shift lever.  I hustled back.

12 minutes later, after hundreds left the start line,
I finally left,
which left me with a clean and clear course.

I could have been hacked off at my mishap.  I wasn't.  There was zero intention to race today.   Honestly, I think it made my day even better.

That was the hill I set out to climb, a nice day on the bike.

All that to ask this question...

... are you climbing the right hill?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

You could gift a friend the 2032 batteries... inside

a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Should out to Wrench House for helping me swap batteries!

1

Changing poncho in the wild

Yeah, I ate two of these.

---

165ish?  slept at race
5.5 hrs Sleep got their late
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
10 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6188963413

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

IT'S A MIRACLE I'VE SURVIVED THIS LONG.  How many times did I attempt to jump the gap?  Or sprint before, through, and out of the corner?  Risking life and lycra...

... fearlessly?

Being fearless doesn't take courage.

Courage is when you are completely aware of the sitch, and you know dern well...

... this could end really badly.

Courage is when you state your commitment publicly that you'll be winning or placing or finishing in a certain time, and failure...

... could bring a heap of mocking.

It's cool to fearless.
It's rad to act with courage. 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

You know what else is rad?

a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Get on this before it's too late-> 

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

164.5
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
50 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6181166132

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

HENRY KISSINGER IS ALIVE.  He's 98.  That blows my mind.  Seems like he's been 56 for a hundred years.  He still gets up, works hard all day, has dinner, keeps working.  If you want to be forever vital...

... never stop working.

As we ease towards winter, it's tempting to back off.  Quit all together.

Check these stats.

We usually have 30-40 guys on our Tuesday morning ride. 
We had 15.

Same on Thursday evening.
We had 4.

Don't be that cat,
under the covers,
sipping hot cocoa.

My friend Frank reminded me of the great Dylan Thomas poem.

Do not go gentle into that good night...
... Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

We're getting close to the holiday season, get on this before it's too late-> 

a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

164.5
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
50 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6181166132

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

LOOK AROUND.  Who are the sexiest people you know?  And, Why are the so dang attractive?  I know you know what I'm talking about, but if you don't you will soon...

... as soon as you see your kin during the holidays.

Someone gunna say, Dang you look good.

You wanna know our secret?

We all know,
it's the blood flow,
that gives us our glow.

That, plus getting outside as much as we can.

Sunshine is a happiness drug, and we get it a lot more than most folks.

Oh, and one more thing...

... which I hope you're practicing.

We unplug when we ride.  

No podcast.
No music.

While we give our bodies a good wringing out,
we give our brains a chance to uncouple,
from everything.

So, when they ask let 'em know...
... It's the blood flow that give me my glow.

Oh, and eating like an athlete...
... yeah, remember that when y'all sit down.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

How about this for a holiday gift for one of your supersexy friends-> 

a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

164.5
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps + Kettle Bells
Stretch + Hypervolt
75 minutes reading books + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6176726368

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

OVER THE WEEKEND I REALLY SCREWED UP.  I broke rule number one, don't ever ever ever ever ever ever ever ever ever skip eating after the big ride.  But, things came up and there I was 5 hours later starving...

... which lead to massive binging.

Now I know I preach a lot about eating whole foods, but this was next level considering the narrow time window of my fall.

Whole double-patty hamburger, whole pint of ice-cream, whole bowl of fries, whole rack of ribs...

... and a whole lot more.

Finally I drifted off into a food coma...

... waking up a whole lot heavier.

Shift!

But, it was just one day and in a few days that will all be purged and I'll be back to where I wanna be...

... less of me.

DO YOU EVER CHECK YOURSELF OUT RIDING BY RETAIL STORES, all of you reflecting back from their large and shiny windows?  In sophisticated circles we call this checking our form.  The rest of us just call it what it is...

... does this kit make me look fat?

This off season, I've added quite a bit of weight training to my schedule.  At least for me it's a lot.  The key is...

... to have good form.

Good form means we won't get hurt.

But, we can sure fry our legs without even riding.  This has made it much easier to stay in zone two.

Concurrently, I've been hyper focused on my riding form when on the bike logging these easyish base miles.  Specifically, my pedal stroke.  The proverbial...

... pedaling in circles.

Pushing forward along the top,
pressing down,
scraping mud off my shoes across the bottom,
pulling back up to the top.

I've also been working particularly hard at getting my ankles back involved.  Somehow I'd lost a lot of flexibility and was just mashing down. Hence, I've been doing all kinds of exercises to get them back in the game and whipping across the bottom of the pedal stroke.

Anyway, consider this a public service announcement.  While everybody else is just pedaling...

... check your form.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

And check out this superprimo Holiday gift-> 

a personalized RaceDay Bag™ 
and, a dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you because you've been around here a while.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

166
7 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 40 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
65 minutes reading + journaling

 https://www.strava.com/activities/6164923987

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I DISCOVERED THIS FREAKY FORMULA FOR FEELING FAST by accident.  And, let the record show feeling fast is a big part of riding fast.  But, the weird part is this feeling...

... comes for going way slower.

Then, it manifests itself in a PR fest the likes of which are on par with NYE 1999.  I got a lion in my pocket...

... and baby he's ready to roar!

It happened yesterday.

Due to time constraints, I cut the 50 mile version of the Good Dirt Ride and hit a number of the single track sections I've been riding on my gravel bike while trying to piece together...

... The Grand Master Flash Sir Mixalotta Surfaces 100k.

But, that's another story.

What happened was I hit all single tracks on my superbadass fullsuspensionrocket.  

Rather than bouncing all over the trail and feeling like I was riding on the limits of physics, as I have been on the gravel bike...

... it was smooth, and in slow motion.

A feeling of serenity and calm control...

... ripping faster than ever the same exact trails.

So why the PRs?

• Gravel bikes force me to pick the cleanest lines.
• Gravel bikes require a firm grip and a loose body (see Zen and the Art of Archery book review.)

The result is refining of the dirt skills via gravel bike...

... and ripping freakishly fast on the MTB.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Holiday gift of the year-> a personalized RaceDay Bag™ + dedicated Way of The RACER book.

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden to the unwashed masses, but I'm sharing it with you because you've been around here a while.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

166.7
9 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch + Hypervolt
120 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6162024657

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

DOUG GRANT CELEBRATED HIS 65TH BIRTHDAY by putting on the Good Dirt Ride and raising $101,652 for charitable causes.  He's that kinda guy.  Effective.  Efficient.  A servant leader...

... people naturally rally behind.

For his last time putting on the event, we had a light rain and the resultant hero dirt...

... the kinda dirt that is a moist and tacky.

It gives the feeling of riding like a hero. 

So much grip.  

Stand up and pound the pedals,
and the tires just dig and launch you forward.

Lean over and carve,
and it's like every turn has a perfect berm.

Of course he would conjure up just a morning.

As the riders came in from the 10, 25 and 50 mile courses, I could tell many of them had been challenged.  There were a few nicks and bruises...

... but mainly smiles.

Happy to be done.  Happy to have played a part in a worthy cause.

Doug was happy, too.

His final words, after many years of putting on the event, were a call to action...

... for all of us.

Isn't it wonderful that we able to set aside our differences and come together in harmony and do something good?  Remember this, and keep building our community.

And that my friends, is the real dirt on a local hero:  Doug Grant.

Few of us have what it takes to put on a ride of that magnitude...

... but, we can all invite a friend to join our next ride.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Wouldn't it be a wonderful gift to give a great friend, a personalized RaceDay Bag™?

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden, but I'm sharing it with you because you've been around here a while.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed The Way of The Racer book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

165
7 hrs Sleep 
0 PullUps 0 PushUps
Stretch
10 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6155974192

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

WHEN I'M TRULY READY FOR RACEDAY THE FEELING IS AMAZING.  It's unlike all the other starts.  Not hectic, not nervous.  A quiet lake vs chaotic rapids.  And that's how it should be...

... like going for an easy spin out your front door.

Routine.

Ho-hum.

Ready in every sense of the word.  

Spirit.

Body.

Mind.

Are you feeling me?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

For me, it starts the day before loading my RaceDay Bag™...

... the confidence I have everything I need to slay the day.

Mine has my name on it.

Wouldn't that be a wonderful gift to give yourself or a dear friend, a personalized RaceDay Bag™?

I have a special link for our Stock Designs with a personalization option... it's hidden, but I'm sharing it with you because you've been around here a while.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

Whatever name you type in will be printed... so be creative!

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Custom bags require about 3 week, so order now to have in time for the holidays...

... we'll do our magic...

... and you'll have one extremely stoked friend that is blown away by your very personal generosity.

You are that kind of friend, right?

Trust me, there's nothing better.

Use this promo code to save a few bucks -> PERSONAL

Plus... I'll also add a signed book to your gift.

Go here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/custom-name-bags

---

164.7
7 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 40 Super PushUps + Kettle Bells
HyperVolt & Stretch
80 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

AFTER FULLY AND COMPLETELY COMMITTING MYSELF TO A STRENGTH PROGRAM, I can confidently let you know there are some excellent reasons to stay far away from such activities... 

... but you be the judge.

First there are the obvious reasons;

• You prefer the sexy look of small shoulders, arms and chest with accompanying t-shirt stuck on belly.
• You prefer to be weak, unsteady and prone to fall off your bike.

The lifestyle reasons:

• You hate going to the gym when you could be riding.
• You don't have room for weights.
• You don't have time.

The silly reasons:

• You're afraid you'll gain weight - true for a scant few, but not you.

The real reasons:

• You don't know what to do
• You don't want to get hurt.

Those are legit.

I had the same concerns.

Figure it out, it doesn't take much time and the benefits are wonderful.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/tools/products/bikeshop-park-tool-bo-4-corkscrew-and-bottle-opener-fold-up-tool

Then let the celebrations begin with your new found powers.

You might need a fancy, high-quality tool like this.  Truly hard to find, and always impressive when your posse is over for a visit.

Retails for $48, but with this code...

 ... it's 50% off.

The code is GETSTRONG.

There is only one of these in stock, so act quickly.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/tools/products/bikeshop-park-tool-bo-4-corkscrew-and-bottle-opener-fold-up-tool

---

164.7
7 hrs Sleep 
15 PullUps 30 Super PushUps
HyperVolt & Stretch
90 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6146493961

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

AT THE RACE THIS WEEKEND, a bunch of cats will show up.  Fancy kits, shiny bikes, niiiiice legs.  But, there's a huge problem in diagnosing who the players are...

... even if you know them by name, like your friends.

Because what you don't know...

... will kill you.

The shift you can't see....

... the secrets.

What's in them bottles?
What'd ya eat for breakfast?
How well did you sleep last night?
What workouts are you doing off the bike?
Who's your coach and what did they tell you to do?
Are you even recording all your rides on Starva or hiding some?

If you think you know your enemy, think again...
... think hard.

Do they know you?
What are you doing different?
Have you added to your arsenal?
Deleted some of that mass we call flubber?

Now, all them blingy thingies you see at the start should and most likely do have a purpose...

... to keep you distracted from their Dr. Evil plans.

Shoot, I used to... 
... and sometimes still do
... show up with a filthy bike and stenchy kit
... glasses askew
... grease on my calf. 

And, my all time favorite don't mind me question...
... Do you know where the course goes?

Meanwhile, I'm running black chains and cassettes that are purrrrfect, silky smooth.  Ceramic bearings and ceramic lube, a drive train prepped for annihilation.

I'm that kinda kat.

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Here's an example of the secret stuff I use that can't be seen.  Everything you see here has been battle tested and proven.

I wouldn't race without them.

Ever.

Too crazy.

Who doesn't want their legs to feel magical?

Who doesn't want their chain to be silent and smooth and seemingly completely free of drag?

Don't let all that training you do go to waste.

I can promise you,
there are very crafty cats scheming all kinds of ways to leave you far behind.

But, you wisely have me on your side.

If I had to choose just two of these products it would be these two, because of their startling performance gains.

So, here's the deal

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Order at least 1 of each because supply chain issues are real,

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So, go here and be sure to purchase all 3 and use this code at check out

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and DZ Nutz will be free

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/secret-stuff

---

165.4
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 20 Super PushUps + Kettlebells
HyperVolt & Stretch
75 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6143776855

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I GOT PAID A NICE COMPLIMENT TODAY and it occurred to me it was most undeserved.  Because in this case I've done everything possible... 

... to copy the best.

Ha!... because the best let me know in clear (often foul) language, I had it all wrong.

From Nelson Vails teaching me how to hold my bars to the local honcho mocking my gear selection.

Ever been there?
Are you still there?
Would you rather be here?

I was riding behind you last week and man, have you got good form.

Shut up!

No really, I was and I could tell every single effort was efficient and aero and beautiful.

Stop!

I mean it.

Well, gauldarnit... that's a mighty fine thing to say.  Thanks man.

Whether or not it's as true as he said, I'm sure my form is a lot different from those early days for one reason...

... I didn't take it personally.

Well, I might of.  But, then I got over it and paid attention because I wanted to improve...

... a lot.

So, if you're lucky enough to have someone ruthlessly,
or lovingly,
or mockingly,
comment on your form...

... be humble, and take action.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights

Speaking of taking action, this morning was gnarly...

Even with all our bikes lit up
with the sun in our faces
with bright clothes on

... we had the closest call in my life.

Some crazy person passed a lumbering truck, across the double yellow...

and came head in into us, too damn close!

... get lit my friends.

Life is a helluvalot better in one piece.

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165
7 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
HyperVolt & Stretch
15 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6136628049

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

I TRY AND KEEP THINGS SIMPLE, as few cycling goals as possible.  Like 2 or 3.  It's not for everybody, but it works stunningly well for me.    That's it...

... the rest is just putting the process in place.

The process revolves around the perfect week, and it's something I'm constantly fiddling with and adjusting.

Nothing big,
just little tweaks.

The big idea I set up a long time ago...

... figure out a process, that if followed, will deliver me as fast as possible to the finish line...

... with the least amount of time required.

It's like baking a delicious apple pie, you just need to know the recipe and have the ingredients.  Then, put it in the oven and enjoy when ready...

... on raceday.

If you don't have a process or if your process sucks...

... get started here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training

... or don't and just keep doing the same shift you've always done.

... get started here:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training

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164.7
8 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
HyperVolt & Stretch
100 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6131804925

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

THERE ARE THINGS I WILL NEVER DO AGAIN ON A BIKE, involving skills I had honed over time and with much practice.  I don't miss them...

... the present is so much better.

I'll never...

have a pinch flat
snap a shifter cable mid-race
experience brake fade on a long descent

... because

disc are reliable and powerful
shifting is electric.
tubes are dead

... and I'm feel dawgawn lucky.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/bikeshop-dynaplug%C2%AE-racer-tubeless-bicycle-tire-repair-kit

On the rare occasion sealant isn't enough, I whip out this magical tool and quickly plug a whole.

It's truly incredible.

Highly recommend.

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164.7
8 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
100 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6128167358

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

BY CHANCE, we met up with some of our other dropbar pals halfway through our respective group's rides.  Grabbing Mexican Coke's and snacks at the country store, we chatted for a bit...

... then our little group continued on the gravel roads...

They'd traveled on asphalt,
we'd traveled mostly on dirt.

They'd dealt with cars,
we'd dealt with dust.

They'd paused at many lights,
we'd crossed a few streams.

They'd avoided road hazards,
we'd sliced single track.

... and that made all the difference.

I'd dragged, cajoled... nah, just invited a few of my gravleros to check out this route because after riding it last week I was worried it was too hard.

Turns out it's not...

It's challenging.
It's climby.
It's fun.

... according to them.

The question I have now is...

Can we do it under 4 hours if we're really getting after it?

Don't think so.

Really?

62 miles, 5000' of vert, some techy trails.

Yeah, it'd be hard.

You'd have to average just over 15 mph.

We averaged 14.

Maybe a pro, or some young stallion.

I left it that, ready for the challenge.  But, first I think we need a few more practice runs and some much cooler temps.

Who's in for a dumb gravel ride?

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I was wishing I had this tire on the back today.  It was a little dusty and loose and climbing outta the saddle was tricky.

These are pretty hard to find.

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164
7.5 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
15 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6123007604

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF RACERS, I've been robbed by each.  One is flashy, loud and intimidating.  The other a sneakybastard.  One is easy to spot and track.  The other...

... a thief!

Let me tell you of a most glorious and disturbing race.

A few years back I trained all year for an epic 200 mile road race.  I was really, really ready. 

Fit. 
Light. 
Fast bike. 
Altitude adjusted.  
Superior support.

Everything was unfolding according to plan, until I flatted with 45 miles to go.  

What followed was one of my most heroic (too much?) efforts ever.  A reasonably fast tube change, and a 35 mile chase.  90 minutes on the limit, alone and in the zone.

I attached to the back, took stock of things, calmed my beating heart.

There in plain site was public enemy number one.  Multi-time winner of the event, master's state, national and world champ, with the stripes to prove it...

... who'd beaten me soundly the previous spring when I'd ventured up to his territory to feel him out.

As we neared the finish line, I was in perfect position.  On his wheel, and he was 2 guys back.  I was feeling extremely confident.  I had my quarry, I could see the line, I'd practiced specifically for this kind of long, straight, wide-open sprint...

... I was gonna win.

But, there was one problem...

... we weren't going fast enough.

This allowed the robber, in a plain unassuming kit, to slowly roll off the front. I watched the gap open, confident I could still catch and win.  But, it kept opening, getting larger and larger until it was too late...

I beat the champ, and finished first loser...

... because I had been distracted by the flashy.

Each style will cut your heart out.  One by intimidation, the other by stealth.

Which means two things...

... we have to protect our hearts and...

... we have to choose our own style.

But, don't leave it there.  We must be flexible and not hard-hearted.  Different racers, terrain, weather...

... require different styles.

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Speaking of thievery and style... 

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The socks are made with FastMax compression tech and EZBreathe yarns.

Trust me, they're awesomee!

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

162.7
6ish hrs Sleep 
30 PullUps 60 Super PushUps + Kettle Bell
HypberVolt & Stretch
55 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6118128353

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

THERE'S NOTHING BETTER THAN A COLD, dark morning.   And there's plenty of that on the way.  We had our first one this week.  In the 30's, and humid.  Bone chilling.  Just knowing most cats are tucked in and cozy...

... brings me joy.

Yeah, I know I'm sick.

But, dayem if it ain't glorious on those mornings.  My breath, hot and steamy.  The streets empty...

... the suns splintering rays fracturing across the retreating dark.

I live for that shift!

Most rollover.
Most put on the winter coat.
Then spend all spring taking it off.
vs. rolling out.

Isn't it awesome, getting a big head start on the rest of cats?

Takes some discipline at first.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets

And, the proper gear... like the KOM jacket.

This is one of my all time favorite creations.  We make it using a very technical membrane fabric I import from Italy.  

It is extremely wind and water resistant.

I named it the KOM jacket because it's perfect for tucking away on the giant local climbs and whipping out for the return trip down.

Watch the video, and see how it packs up.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-jackets

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---

YOU'LL PROBABLY TAKE THIS PERSONALLY, not you... you're too wise and deep... I'm talking to the average smack talking, chest puffing Strava hero who doesn't know...

... KOMs aren't kool.

And trust me on this, I'm the first to admit I was once a KOM hunter.  And the second to admit my helmet straineth mightily when I get one...

... and I still get 'em.

Real ones, with hundreds of attempts.  Nearly always on the DH section of something fast, flowy and fun...

... that's my jam.

But this KOM jam is evil. 

Capital E evil.  

It deceiveth.

It lieth.

It pointeth in the wrong direction.

The point of our fitness isn't to kick the krap out of the other kids...

... our first focus should always be about discovery.

What can I do to improve?

How fast can I go?

Me.

Not thee.

Once I unlock the secrets of my fitness, I help others up...

... and that's a metric we can never measure...

... that gives real pleasure.

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If that resonates with you... get this book!

If it doesn't... get this book!  

It's free.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/training/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

---

ON THE RIDE TODAY I HEARD AN ASTOUNDING COMMENT.  Well, I asked for it.  But, still, I was quite surprised because I know this cat has had some real challenges...

... to the point of being forced not to ride.

Who wants that?  

Now, I'm not doctor, but I do play one here on the blog.  Since the last time I saw him he was hobbling tenderly through Costco, I just had to know what had changed.

It's good to see you're riding again.

Thanks, it's great to be back.

Did you do anything different?

Yep, I quit playing tennis, quit walking and quit riding for 2 weeks.

Wow, that's a lot to give up.

I feel good.

This is where the doctor in me gently plants a seed.

Do you ever stretch?

Never.  I hate it.

Do you think it would help?

Definitely.

Personally, I have experienced many aches over the years and I've found if I just go back to stretching they all go away pretty quickly.  My little is easy...

... and takes no more than 15 minutes.

15 minutes.

Everybody's got 15 minutes.

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Everybody also has cold weather creeping in. 

For me, that means grabbing a stylish bean to cover my silver and gold locks.

We have this in 4 gorgeous colors:  army green, navy, black and charcoal.

Right now, today, and maybe tomorrow... 

... if you act quickly...

... they are shipping for Free.  $20, gets one delivered to you...

... with the winged-wolf logo.  Our spirit animal.

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---

AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR I PUT 3 'A' RACES ON MY CALENDAR.  They all seemed outlandish and outrageous.  I accomplished one, DNS'd one, and blew off the last.  I'm not exactly sure where I went wrong...

... but I'm feeling like a loser, quitter.

LoToJa, I got the coveted lottery. 
Paid the princely registration. 
Blew it off.  

Marathon Nats, didn't even bother signing up. 
Pretty weak. 
But, it happens...

... at least it happened to me.

Honestly, looking back on it I think the gravel races messed me up.  And, I think they messed me up for a couple of reasons.

First, I treated them as B races.  Didn't taper.  Didn't train specifically.  Totally winged it...

... and that was a mistake.

Because, once I got on the start line I had a real Hellyeah! attitude and just went for it.  Raced way beyond my prep, and went very deep.  

Rock Cobbler was terribly hard.  Crushar In The Tushar massively masochistic.  And BWR, was super fun but weeks away from Nats.

In each case, though I had some surprisingly good results, I came out mentally drained.  Physically, I was probably fine.  In fact, looking at my numbers I had big fitness gains...

... but, I couldn't shake the belowthesurface dread of peaking again.

So, here I am. 
Calendar in hand.
A few MTB races out there.  

They're C races at this point.  I'm going because I'm a sponsor.  Maybe I should call them See races, instead.

See the country.
See my friends.
See how I feel.

There is however one, gigantic takeaway. 

It is incredibly powerful to post your 3 main goals, on a humongous calendar.  There is no denying that fact.  Seeing it in Sharpie.  Large.  It works on your mind.  Conditions you to believe.  Forces you to take charge of your schedule.

That 3rd place and Silver Corral at Leadville, blew my mind.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2

For sure, I'm shooting for a podium at Leadville.  For sure, I'll go to Nats.

I'm not sure what if there will be a third A race... though I suspect it will be something gravelish.

What do you see in your future?

If you order the 2022 Calendar now, I'll include a 2021 calendar and ship it right away.

And yes... we can make calendars in your team colors... with your team events pre-populated.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2

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---

SOME SAY DEATH GIVES LIFE MEANING.  I say racing gives training meaning.  In each case, we are confronted with what we have made ourselves into.  Therein lies the magic...

... our ability to change over time.

I register early for my A race(s), because I want all the time possible to prepare for the day of reckoning.  

Change takes time.
Repetitive work.
Training.

Motivationally, here's nothing like knowing your going to die...
... errr, having an A race on the calendar.

What a way to keep our base fitness in a state of readiness!  Kinda like being perpetually ready to meet our maker... 

... except, more to our choosing.

So, choose your A race early.  Mark it on your RaceDay Calendar, in red...

... and make the changes necessary to slay the day! 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

We are born athletes after all, and athlete's thrive in competition.

Registering for racing is the first and great principle of The Way of The RACER.

If you're into that sorta stuff, get the book.

It's free.

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---

DO YOU EVER FEEL GUILTY TELLING YOUR RIDER'S STORY?  Does your lover feel your heart rate's rise and fall, does she see your raging glory?  Did you neglect to reveal...

... my life, my lover, my lady...

... has wheels.

I feel that way sometimes.

Only worse, lately.

It started at BWR, two weeks ago. 

Everybody's huffing and puffing, and I'm grooving to the sweet beats, horns and spot on lyrics of Brandy, by Looking Glass... which I shamelessly tweaked for this post.

It's a truly mixed up affair I'm caught in..
... this gravel thing.

Today's ride went from pavement to fire road to pavement to fire road to single track to fire road to pavement to fire road to single track and so on...

... I love it.

All my passions rolled into one glorious adventure.

I hope she doesn't ask about it, 'cause I'm an honest man...
... and she doing her best to understand.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

I cover some of this in chapter 3 of The Way of the RACER.  

Part of doing all we can do as racers is taking care of those who support us, first.  

If you're into that sorta stuff, get the book.

It's free.

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---

ONCE I REALIZED I DIDN'T HAVE TO GO TO THE GYM TO WEIGHT TRAIN, I got a regular plan going.  Don't get me wrong, it's fun to go to the big box and hear the clanking and see all the preening.  But, we aren't lifting for entertainment...

... we're going for results.

I get it done with adjustable barbells. 

They quickly adjust from 20 lbs to 62.5 lbs, while taking up minimal space.  Plus, a kettle bell.  And, of course, the pull up bar.  Oh, and my stairs.

Wednesdays are my designated day for weights year round.  But, this time of year I also "lift" on Fridays, and sometimes on Mondays.

The thing that's great is it really taxes my legs, along with everything else.  So, when I go for a ride I'm in no mood to put down the power...

... zone 2 rules the day.

And you know it feels like, doing this for a few months?

It feels like I'm doing a complete overhaul of a race car, down to the paint-stripped frame.  Making everything stronger than before.

Better.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/cinturato%E2%84%A2-gravel-h 

With no training agenda, I'll be rolling on the gravel bike a like.

Have I told you how much I enjoy these tires?

They roll extremely fast, and still have a good edge for ripping the corners.

Made by Pirelli.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/cinturato%E2%84%A2-gravel-h

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---

THE LITTLE OL' POWER METER, oh has it corrupted my good friend's approach to racing.  Poor guy.  I discovered this incorrect thinking when he related his latest attempt at a most difficult race...

... a mountainous error.

On the way back tonight...

How'd your last attempt go?

 I had a good day, finished strong.  No cramps.

That's great!

Yeah, except I got dropped on the climb.

The KOM?

No, Strawberry.

Now, I've done this race.  And I've ridden that climb.  It's huge.  30 miles from bottom to top and many thousands of feet gained...

... and it's not even the KOM climb!

I was blunt, because I love him.

You gotta climb more.

I put out good power.  

Yeah, on the flats.

Isn't power, power?

And that's why I say power meters corrupt.  This cat thinks power is power.  It's not...

... because power is different in each riding position.

No, you have to train the position.  You've need to spend a lot more training on terrain as close as possible to what you'll be racing.  

Really?

Yes, all your Saturdays leading up the that race you must be climbing big long climbs.

But, I climb a lot on Saturdays.

Not like that race.  We just have punchy 5-20 minute climbs around here.  It's better than nothing, but not like a 60-90 minute climb.  That takes getting use to, slightly different use of your leg muscles.  Your back and core are activated differently.  Different rhythms.  Cadence. 

Hmmmmm.

You gotta train the position to be in position to win. 

That's power!

You know what else is power?

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This light combo is perfect for road riding in the dark.  The thing I love is all the complaints other riders give me for the retina burning tail light.

And the headlight is plenty bright as well.

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---

165.1
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
50 minutes reading + journaling

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

ANYBODY THAT TELLS YOU IT'S LIKE RIDING A BICYCLE doesn't understand what riding a bicycle is.  In fact, outside of the cats at Boston Dynamics, I'd say nary a soul on the planet understands what the heck we are doing...

... but, it doesn't matter does it?

Do we have to know the physics of pedaling to slap those gorgeous smiles on our faces every time we ride?

Nope.

We pedal over, around, up and down,
we ride fast and slow,
we flow...

... on faith.

We watch others and have faith we can do it too.  We don't need to know exactly how it works.

That's all.

Well, not all.

Because this beautiful BMC hardtail was mis-shipped to us.  

Rather than send it back to the warehouse...

... I'll make you this smoking offer:  

Retail is $2000, you can snag it for $1800.  

We shouldn't even discount, seeing how hard it is to get bikes.  But, it would be a win-win...

... if you need a medium, that is.

Specs are here:  https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/intl_en/twostroke-al-one-2022.html?currency=usd

---

164.7
7.5 hrs Sleep 
30 PullUps 80 PushUps
HypberVolt & Stretch
70 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6075256420

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

https://www.instagram.com/pedalindustries/

IT'S GETTING WETTER.  Rain, sleet, snow.  They're all on the way.  We had rain all night, until 4am.  I rolled at 530am anyway, because as a wise man once said...

... sometimes it rains on RaceDay.

The technique I used today to keep my legs sparkly requires brute force, guts and determination.  Which means if you use it...

... you'll be gnaaaaaarly.

I didn't even notice I was doing it.  Just doing my thing.

All the way to the start,
on a massive chunk of the ride,
and all the way home.

At a light, a certain handsome feller pulled up.

Oh man, look at my legs.  My socks!

Bummer.

You're not even dirty.

Uh... maybe you should pull through more instead of mastering wheelsuckery.

Now, I just wanna be clear...  we weren't drilling it today.  In fact, I'll probably be posting soon about keeping things in check in the offseason.

Until then, keep challenging yourself.

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Which is how I'll be signing your book when you order it.

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I WAS JUST READING SOME OF THE HEADLINES FROM YESTERDAY'S EPICALLY EPIC BEYOND EPIC Paris-Roubaix.  This one is just classic.  I didn't even read the article...

... because we all know this dude!

Here it is...

oh, crud...

I can't stop laughing...

but, I promise...

I'll post it...

... hahahahahaha...

Lampaert: I think I was the strongest rider at Paris-Roubaix

Now that is some classic I coulda been a champ thinking right there. 

What a dork!

Bro, if you were the strongest...

... YOU WOULD HAVE WON!

Because guess who won?

The strongest guy.

Oh, did you have some bad luck? 
Did someone cut you off? 
Did you get flatsypoo?

That's racing...

... that's exactly why we race.

To find out who really is the strongest.

Period.

Alright, not really. 

That's why the pros race.  Because they get paid to win. 

We race to find out what we're made of.

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Watching the race unfold, 
the mud,
the cold,
the terrible and treacherous cobbles...

I was reminded of the awesome images we have on the collaborations we made with The Horton Collection.

Check this bag out

Does that get you fired up to get out front and go for the W!

It does me.

Here's the link:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/horton-collection

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THERE ARE 2 WAYS TO SCREW UP YOUR RACE STRATEGY.  Each has to do with vision.  Not through the Oakleys or 100%s or KOOs, but far behind the retina...

... we fail to see things as they are.

I've made each of these mistakes.  

First, we think everybody is way faster and better prepared than we are.

Second, we think they are all slow, weak and lacking grit.

Discipline is the only antidote. 

We must trust our training and our plan to deliver the only result that matters...

... 100% of all we have.

That is success.

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Which is probably why I think this t-shirt is so funny.

When I wear it around town it gets a lot of laughs. 

Which is really funny, considering most people don't know why we think it is so funny.

It's $20, and ships free.

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---

IT COULD JUST BE ME, but I don't think it is.  The heart of racing has changed.  If you've been around a 1000 years, you'll know what I'm talking about.  If you're new to bike racing, the heart of the sport is on life support...

... and that's a good thing.

Today's agro group ride was typical of what I'm talking about. 

In fact, Rigo and I did just that.  We talked.

So did Justin and I, fist bumping the great turnout.

And Patrick and I, he caught me up on his son Luke's winning ways.

And Bart and I, musing on the beautiful morning.

And Steve and I, waving while going in opposite directions.

... you get the idea.

The old days of outward anger and fire and rudeness are being buried.  And, before you say 

Old Diesel you're mellowing...

... just know there was all kind asskickery going on.

The new way is to kindly rip each other's legs off.

And I like it.

What is the source of the change?

Well, it just might be the influence of the softer, bigger tire sides of the sport.  Which are where all the growth is...

... but, I'll let you be the judge on that.

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Or, it could be the quest for PRs is outweighing the I'mbetterthanyouare mentality.

That PR thing is something I cover in my new book.

You can get a copy on Amazon for $20...

... or, you can get it here for free: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

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WE HAVE A HUGE PROBLEM, you and me.  It keeps a lot of our pals from joining us, and it's our own fault.  Someone will ask, How far did you go?. And, this is where we blow it...

... we make it look easy.

Oh, I dunno.  About 60 miles.

Think about that for a moment.  For us, on bikes, its sheer joy.

For them, driving 60 miles sounds terrible.  Sitting on a hard wedge, in pajamas, pedaling...

... unthinkable.

They consider the unthinkable, our ho-hum response, and there's no way to convince them that they'll be able to keep up...

... ergo, huge problem.

Of course, we could say we rode 8 miles and it was hard as hell.  They'd believe that.  If we challenged them, they'd be up for it.

Do we lie then?

Nah.

We just debelish, which is a word I made up just now and it means to de-embelish.  Like this:

How far did you go?

About an hour.

Wow!

Yeah, I got a good warm up and cool down. It was actually pretty fun on this little trail or forgotten road.

That is something they'll believe.  Yet another reason to report time vs miles.

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Then tell them you have this special lotion that takes all the pain away from your legs.

Because it does!

If you haven't tried PR Lotion...

... you're crazy.

Because it's crazy...

... how good it works.

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---

THERE'S A REASON I DON'T COUNT MILES.  I mean I do, but I don't.  Not really.  Because miles don't really count.  There is only one thing that counts...

... time.

Time in the saddle.

In four hours on the road, I can cover 100 miles.  On a twisty single track, 100 miles can take 8-9 hours.

Don't count the miles, make the miles count.

It's part of doing All You Can Do, one of the chapters of my book.

Check it out here: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer

Check it out here: https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/the-way-of-the-racer

---

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAVE YOU RIDDEN 100 MILES WITH?  My first 100 miler was actually 125.  6 of us started out.  2 of us finished...

... everyone should have made it.

None of were accomplished.  I had a mere 6 weeks of riding under my bib straps.  The others had all started that summer.  We were enthusiastic.  

It took all day.
Sunrise to Sunset.

Why did the others quit?  I dunno. 

Fear maybe, that they'd get stuck in the middle of nowhere.  
No sense of needing to rise to the challenge, perhaps.

Yesterday, reader Craig asked...

How do you do at least 10 pull ups each day?  I tried to do 10 today and couldn't even do one.

I told him my secret.

I was pathetically weak, just like you.  I started with one, the rest I did by jumping up and lowering myself down slowly.  All those muscles are connected.  Just get started, and stick with it.  You can do it.

At BWR on Saturday, I caught up with friend Matt.  He did the whole Waffle, 130 miles on gravel.  We were laughing about the first time I dragged him out on a bike.

Do you remember that first ride?

Haha, yes, of course.

I couldn't even make the half mile to the trail.  I was so embarrassed I turned around within about 5 minutes.

Look at you now!

You know, bikes has probably saved my life.  I'm so much healthier.  

That's why I say I've never met someone that couldn't ride 100 miles...

... now just imagine if they did!

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One thing we didn't have on our first hundy was good nutrition.  First, we didn't now whatthehell we were doing.  Second, there weren't good options anyway.

Just the SaltStick would have made a big difference that day.

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