THERE'S A LOOP IN UTAH THAT STARTED IT ALL.  Beginning in the college town, riding across the valley, and up a giant climb.  It's majestic. Rugged rock cliffs jut up on each side, graced with pine, aspen and bubbly streams...

... I never feel pain here.

I should, but I don't.  

In the best of conditions, it's an hour to the top.  In the worst, it can be deadly.

Heavy canyon winds.
Ice.
Rain.
Snow. 

11 miles straight up.  3000' in vert.  Topping out at 8000'. 

Then, straight down, back to town. 

But, not straightstraight.  A series of countless turns, mostly banked and in good shape await.

Rippable.

The kind of terrain that makes one feel immortal...

... wishing it would never end.

That's my origin story of road racing.

I think the most beautiful part is that I'm not really a climber.  Not the pure kind.  But, born to climb nonetheless because I love it to so much....

... the effort,
being in the zone,
watching the rocks and trees slip by,
reaching the summit,
bombing down...

... that's my jam, what got me hooked, keeps me going.

Today was classic.

Took the gravel bike, 40s and all. 

Temps in the 50s to start.

Light wind at the bottom,
light rain at the top.

Just me, like that first day.

Plus a snack at Sundance.

Perfect.

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

It was exactly the kind of climb I created the KOM jacket for...

... warm at the bottom, inclement weather at the top.

Pulled it out of my back center pocket, were it easily nested waiting to fly.

We make it from a superlight membrane fabric we import from Italy.  It's breathable, yet extremely wind and water resistant.

The KOM jacket is truly one of my favorite pieces.  Because along with the above it's pretty darn aero.  I worked had getting sleeves just right so the jacket doesn't turn into a parachute.

It's my goto any time it's gonna be chilly, and potentially wet.

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

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

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It ain't right if you don't stop at Sundance for a snack.

---

I HAD A GUY GET SO UPSET ABOUT MY LAST POST ON EBIKES HE QUIT READING THE BEST BLOG ON THE PLANET, AND HARSHLY TOLD ME OFF!  I wonder how many more readers I'll lose with this one?  No one that matters.  Because quite frankly...

... I think e-bikes are for ______.

Before I spill the sport-beans, let me just say this morning was a total hoot.  Shane, one our kids, borrowed a true e-bike (more on that below) for me. 

We jammed an early morning scoot through his local mountains.  Fire roads mainly, and a few hidden race tracks with berms and jumps.

The muscle memory was hilarious. 

For years our family rode g-bikes (gas!) in the desert every weekend, each winter.  The first hill we went down my right leg is stabbing down wildly and I can't figure it out.

It's looking for the rear brake pedal!

Ha, none of that on a real e-bike.  Just pegs.  The brakes are on the bars like an h-bike...

... excepted swapped, like a g-bike.

These e-bikes are pretty small, lightish (150 lbs lighter than a g-bike), with a healthy amount of travel and rake.  Really whippable, once you get the feel of the thing...

... they have a bright future, for sure.

So, here are my thoughts.

H-bikes are human powered, have pedals, and will keep in you fantastic shape.

G-bikes are gas powered bikes with pegs.

E-bikes are electric powered bikes with pegs.

M-bikes are motorized bicycles, have pedals, and will allow those with health conditions to enjoy cycling.  They help a lot of people get in betterthannothing shape by simply getting outside and moving around.  They are great transportation, too.

Which one should you get?... 

... the one that will deliver the results you want.

One last thought, please keep the e-bikes, m-bikes, and g-bikes off the sweet and fragile h-bike trails.

Side note, during the moto/kid raising years I kept riding h-bikes.  Not as much as now, but I always rode.  Always.  And, most years I had one epic event during the summer to keep me focused throughout the year.

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

Looking back, I think riding g-bikes got me used to full-finger gloves.  The grip and control is so much better...

... which is why I developed the superlight race gloves for h-bikes.  

They're like a second skin, a lithe layer.

If you order with the extra-amazing socks, the socks are free.  No promo code needed.

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

---

ONCE YOU REALIZE I'M ON THE ONLY ONE ON YOUR SIDE, life gets a lot easier.  I have an amazing bullshytometer, developed through years of observing BS.  It's so powerful...

... I have to shut my mouth most of the time.

Which, as it turns out, is a fantastic way of protecting against so much BS.

Take for example, Fat-free Redvines.  The shouty statement on the packaging is the kinda BS that destroys athletic potential.  Its purely poisonous corn syrup, of course there's no fat.

Or, Gluten-free ice-cream.  Same shyty trick.  It's cream, of course there's no gluten.

Another beauty, people who consume just a little bit of X are healthier.  Same dern shyte because...

... most fools are chugging, smoking, and downing mass quantities of X.

Matthew Van Der Poel's health has not fully returned after going OTB at Olympic MTB race.  Today, he should have been a major factor in the World Champs.  He struggled mightily.  This has nothing to do with consuming shyte...

... and everything to do with performance.

Health is paramount.

So, listen to me...

... and, by me, I mean you!

Listen to your intuition.  How do you feel after X? 

You and I want to go as fast as possible with these bodies of ours.  It's up to us to know what's truly good for athletes. 

Good stuff in,
good good power out.

My simple dietary rule for RaceDay Ready:

Eat as much raw food as possible
if I can't identify the ingredients by looking at the food in my hand, I skip it.

In a world of conspiring marketers, we've got to do our own research.  We've got to pay attention.  We've to be evermore vigilant...

... if we want to survive and thrive any quest, on or off the bike.

Develop your Bullshytometer, and share your findings with everyone...

... that is actually what friends are for.

Stay fast my friends!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1

Some of the best reminders are things we wear, which I why I love this hat.

It reminds me that what I do today will affect how I do on RaceDay.

If you need a reminder like this, get one.

Not in the budget?  Skip the next couple of caffeinated milkshakes from Starbucks.

Win-Win.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats-1

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

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---

I HAVE DONE A FEW GRAVEL EVENTS, but this was a race.  The others, more insane tests of endurance.  The Crushar, crushed my soul.  Rock Cobbler, endlessly nailed my body.  BWR, The Belgian Waffle Ride...

... is bar to bar, 
gravel to sand to asphalt to single track,
racing.

Drafting, 
dust surfing.

I wanted to do a BWR for years, and I've wanted to do a gravel race for just a long.  One thing that held me back was the humongous distance, 130 miles...

... but, my friend Bill, said do the Wafer.

60 miles.

I'm not sure if he said that or not, but turns out it was a little longer.  84 miles, 4000' of vert.  No prob.

It started at 6am, with Belgian waffles.  Real ones.  Delicious.

At 745, we hit the course.

Superpro 5 mile police escort.  There's just something about doing a race with police escort.  I love it.  It says...

... the promoter cares, the town cares.

Fortunately, I was warned that the first gravel sector started with all of us funneling down to double-file to go through a tiny tunnel under the highway.  I came through top 15.

Good thing.

Bill, and his BBI henchmen, were single file and drilling it!

Gaps were opening.

The rest of us were clinging and closing.

Around mile 20, we swept up the PRO women, who'd left 7ish minutes ahead of us.  We rolled on by, but then they started clawing their way to the front.  Clearly they were game for our pace.  This went on for a bit as we hit some twisty rollers...

... then we hit a stout climb.

It was the kind of climb where you think Ah, this must be the top and come around a turn to see another pitch.  

I got ejected, along with what was left of the lead Wafer group.

A group of or guys made it.

But, it looked like a lot more because 6 or so of the top women were there.

Not knowing the course, throttling my pace seemed prudent.  Plus, eventually we'd descend...

... and you know how The Old Diesel likes to rip down.

Enrique, Frank, Craig and I, gathered up 3 pro women and were laying down some good power.  We worked well together.  

We started picking up the Waffle riders who started 15 minutes ahead of us.  Some of them worked with us, most just hung on.  Can't blame 'em, they went another 50 miles.

Speaking of 50, just before aid station at mile 50 was a long sandy climb.  I felt extremely fortunate to have a clear path and was able to clean the whole thing.

Are you getting a sense of the raciness of this?

The crafty, drafty?

Surfing from one group the next.  Bigger cats dropped on climbs, then rolling up on the light cats.  Working together.

Around mile 55, the Wafflers went right.  We went left.

Suckers! 

I say this in jest, it's clearly a much harder race.  The Wafflers are awesome.

I had no idea how we were doing overall.  In my mind there were 15 people up the road.  And we were a long way back...

... the four of us had a pretty good rotation.  

Early on I thought I might have cramping issues.  I was hitting the Salt Tabs early and often.  Drinking plenty - they give you cold, full, new waterbottles.  Eating Honey Stinger waffles.  Sucking down maple syrup.  Saving the Hammer mocha caffeinated for the last 20 miles.

At our pace, I could see we were going to be much quicker than what I'd estimated.  I was thinking 5 hours.  We were going much faster.

Before the 5 miles of rocky, kinda technical single track, is a long gravel climb.  Not a tree in sight.  It's hot.  Dusty.  Any weakness would be amplified and unfortunately we lost my pal Frank.

3 of us hit the single track.

To my surprise, our skills were equal enough that we stayed in contact with each other.  At the same time, we picked off one of the cats who hauled off early with the top pro women. 

He was struggling.

We weren't.

Never saw him again.

We did see a dude with a groovy rainbow jersey.  We blasted by.  He gathered his reserves and caught on.

Next we saw Bill...

... going the opposite direction!

He usually beats me like a drum, so I figured he had finished and was riding back to find Frank.  Nope.  He'd missed a turn...

... which totally sucked.

As we're coming into town, guys are taking short pulls and skipping pulls.  Not knowing any of them, I can't tell if they're tired or playing games. 

I let a gap open.  It got bigger.  Finally someone came around.  Then another.  That answered that.

A mile later, Bill and rainbow guy slipped off the back.

Three of us left.

300 meters to go.

Lots of downtown corners...
... and bam, there's the grassy finish.

I wound up 2nd of our 3 up sprint.  Could I have done better on that sprint?

I dunno.

Would I have ever in a million years guessed I'd end up 5th Overall and win my age group?

No way.

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

In my book, I cover the importance of reviewing each performance. 

My takeaways?

I got to the start late, lined up in the back.  Wasn't a big deal, but could have been.

For sure, I messed up that sprint.  First, I should have pre-rode it yesterday.  It would have been obvious how hard it would be to pass in final 300m.

I've been feeling pretty burned out since Leadville.  If I'd prepped better, I think I would have made the early climb.  But, maybe I'd have blown later trying to hold that pace.  1st-3rd beat us by 9 minutes.

My food was perfect.

My bike amazing.

I also talk about repeating, meaning racing again.  

So, where's another gravel race?

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

Yum.

Yeah, a ways back.

The four of us.

Phwew!

Yep, another waffle... with ice-cream and chocolate.  

 ---

165ish? no scale
7 hrs Sleep 
0 PullUps 0 PushUps 
No stretch today
0 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6018532536

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

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

THERE A FEW SKILLS YA JUST GOTTA HAVE if you're gonna be a rider of any respect.  Whether or not you have 'em is real apparent when you're far from help, like we were today.  My sexy MTB had be come a downer.  Not a rip downer...

... a slow downer.

The back brake was dragging.

A lot. 

The rear wheel would barely we spin and we wanted to rip this little single track.  Stretch our legs after a long drive.  Loosen up before BWR in the morning.

Simple recentering the brake didn't work.

I didn't have all the perfect tools, so here's the hack.

I cut an old credit card in half...

I loosed the brake, again,
dropped the wheel,
jammed a flathead between the calipers to spread 'em wide,
slammed the wheel back in...

... and shoved a piece of the credit card on each side of the rotor...

... then, pulled the brake lever, bringing those calipers in snug,
tightened the brake,
​removed the credit card halves,
tightened the brake,
spun the wheel,
no drag,
went for a ride.

Normally, I have this cool little piece of steel with me.  But, I didn't.  I think that's one of the best parts of breaking down far from help...

... remembering how to improvise. 

It's part of expecting good things to happen.

Which is part of The Way of The RACER.

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

Want to check it out?

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

165ish? no scale
7 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 30 PushUps 
No stretch today
20 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/6013133967

https://twitter.com/pedalindustries

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

NEWS IS SPREADING AROUND THE INTERWEBS of a cyclist who has discovered a massive time hack.  It happened at 11:06 am, Thursday, September 23, 2021 in San Clemente California.  Due to an urgent need to move quickly...

... he learned how to cut his finishing time in half.

Some are calling it a miracle.

Others are very doubtful his recorded time is accurate.

We sent a reporter in.

Sir, you just cut a whopping 50% off your estimated finishing time.

Yes, it’s true.  Phew... let me catch my breath.

Okay... ready?

Yeah... Hellyeah!

How did you do it?

Well, it’s like this.  I knew I had to move twice as fast because I needed to get on the road.  I simply had to haulass.

I don’t understand.

Me either.

I had all this work to do, got up a little earlier, raced around like my life was on the line...

... and finished in half the time.

Finished what?  A race?

No, all my work so I could go to a race.

Am I the only one who has noticed how much we can get done when trying to get out of town?

Kinda makes ya wonder...

What I’m not wondering about is how I’ll do Saturday at BWR – Cedar City.  Not one bit...

... no time hacks planned.

No Surfergirl handups,
No course recon,
No chat those who’ve done it.

Going full tourist mode, and looking forward to some beautiful and challenging terrain...

... on gravel.

It's a racer's life for me.

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

 How about you?

Maybe you'd love this amazing book?  Too much hype?

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

165.2
78 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 30 PushUps 
Stretch and Hypervolt
30 minutes reading + journaling

TODAY WAS DRTY WDNSDAY.  Sometimes it's MTB, sometimes it's gravel.  Sometimes it's spicy, sometimes it's mild.  My pal is visiting and I promised it would be mild, but I forgot.  One cat's mild is another's

.... It burns, gimme some water!

His skills are on par descending, it was the climbing.  He was hurting.  Gasping, begging for directions back...

... No way, this next trail is too good!

Sometimes I can be evil that way, but only because I know this cat belongs in my posse.  He's born to ride...

... and those born to ride don't really suffer.

Even when the legs and lungs burn, and they were searing,...

... they find joy.

When others quit...

... they persevere.

In defeat...

... they learn and improve.

Of course, once we returned, after the cool down, we sat in the fading sunlight.  Smiled.  Then he looked at me...

... Same time next week?

Hellyeah!

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

This kinda riding is the stuff our products are born from.

Steve sent me this pic and message today, pretty cool.

If you haven't tried out gloves and socks, don't you think it's time?

Especially with the insane, but the gloves get the socks special going?

Here's the link: 

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

---

165.4
8 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 60 PushUps + Kettle Bell work
Stretch and Hypervolt
70 minutes reading + journaling

ABOUT 7 WEEKS AGO I PUT OUT A MESSAGE.  A request.  A dare.  A challenge.  I needed guinea pigs, rats, mice?  It went kinda like this...

... RIDERS WANTED:

10 weeks to RaceDay Ready:  expect pain, mind-stretching, new habits, time lost.  Results doubtful, confidence and fitness should you make it.

There was one thing that had people dropping like flies. 

It surprised me.

They were required to post their results each day. 

Just post.  

Miss a day and they were out. 

Hardcore.

Blocked.

Of course you can't outsource your fitness, but you can outsource your task master to some heinous person like me... and you should, if you need it... and a lot of us need it, not NEED, but need like need some sort of accountability.

So get a plan.

Like these cats who took me up.

Kyle B

Yes. For sure. Like Kyle I notice in the mirror. My chest is bigger and I am thinking I need to move up a shirt size from md to lg because the chest and shoulders are tight. It really is so quick and easy I don’t know why I just didn’t do it in the past.

---

If you're into that sort of thing, click here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready-wait-list

---

If you've got it all figured out, then maybe you need to treat yourself to something awesome.

---

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos/products/tour-changing-poncho

---

Frankly, I think this is one of the cooler things we've made.

It's the Tour Changing Poncho with authentic photos from Horton Collection.

Check it out here:   https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos/products/tour-changing-poncho

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

166
6 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
10 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/5996453567

https://TWITTER.com/PEDALindustries

https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/pedalindustries/

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

WE CAN ALL BE CYCLING GODS.  In fact, I'd say most of us are.  Before you go sending me off to hell for blasphemy.  Hear me out.  I think I have a point, because like God, we are molding something from the proverbial clay.  Our bodies, one pedal stroke at a time...

... god-like power it is.

We harness the potential within and become cyclists.  We ride and get stronger.  Our wimpy legs get tight and taught, even veiny...

... isn't it amazing?

We summit stairs and climbs with ease,
while others gasp and wheeze.

And, we love every moment of it.

If you haven't ever used your powers in a race, have I got a book for you.

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

And, if you have raced but wanna new approach...

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

---

165.8
8.5 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 40 PushUps (my baseline)
Stretch and Hypervolt
30 minutes reading + journaling

https://www.strava.com/activities/5991612952

https://TWITTER.com/PEDALindustries

https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/pedalindustries/

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

MOST PEOPLE HAVE A CHEAT DAY, and end up cheating themselves.  I was one of 'em for years.  TBH, I still get on that train from time to time.  But, that's not the point of this post...

... this Will fights aliens.

He's independent.

Successful.

Fresh.

Like a prince.

And here's how he lives his life.

So if you stay ready, you ain't gotta get ready, and that is how I run my life.

- Will Smith

Ready is the base level, not the top...

... the top is tapered and ready to slay it on RaceDay.

We should always be ready to take on any race, maybe not win it or PR it, but...

Fit.
Gear prepped.
Bike well-maintained.

... that kinda thing, that's the base.

The way we live, The Way of The RACER.

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

Depending on your time zone and where you find these nuggets of truth, it's either Sunday eve or Monday morn...

Make it a great week.

Make it even better with some inspirational reading.

It's on me.

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

---

166
8 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps (my baseline)
Stretch and Hypervolt
2 hrs minutes reading + journaling

https://www.STRAVA.com/activities/5981784788

https://TWITTER.com/PEDALindustries

https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/pedalindustries/

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

FIRST, WHO HAS THE BEST NOODLES?  The Italians, and their delicious pasta dishes?  The Asians, with the amazing wok delights?  Whatever your flavor...

... there's one noodle that must be a staple.

It's not noodle the word. 

I'm talking about noodle the verb.

Which is exactly what I needed after a very punishing breakfast of pounding out 57 miles and 4500' feet of climbing with some of the fastest cats in town.

... wouldn't you agree?

At the apex of the final climb, I shut 'er down...

... coasting down to the coast,
then along the coast, 
then a friendly snack, 
and on home.

HR for the last 15 miles and 500' never got over 118, and dipped as low as 92.  Ave speed 13.

That my friends is noodling...

... and I don't think we do enough of it.

Cruising.
People watching.
Barely touchin' them pedals.
Waiting patiently for the little ol' lady to cross the street.
Not cracking a sweat.
Not breathing hard.
Just chilling.

Have you had a healthy of noodling helping lately?

It's part of Doing All You Can Do, one of the Chapters in my brand new best-selling-for-me book.

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

If your cycling diet could use some new flavors, check it out.  

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

---

165.4
7.5 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
33 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.STRAVA.com/activities/5981784788

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

https://TWITTER.com/PEDALindustries

https://www.INSTAGRAM.com/pedalindustries/

AS THE GREAT BEYONCE SAYS, I don't thing you're ready for this jelly.  'been grooving to Bootylicious all day.  Even added it to my WingedWolf playlist, because I just love the mindset...

... I don't think you can handle this!

It's the kind of mindset racers have when they roll into the parking lot.  It's a swagger that comes from the confidence of being ready...

... to slay it.

How do we get there?  We put in the time, do the work, ride the miles, we prep the bike, we eat like the athletes we were to be...

... it's our destiny to have a great day.

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

If you don't have a method to get your mind, body and soul read to race, may I suggest a book?

You pay the shipping, I'll send the book.  No charge...

... really no charge, just the shipping?

I mean there will be a charge.  You.  You're gonna be charged to get after it.

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

---

165.4
7.5 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
33 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5977277614

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

YOU CAN ALWAYS GET FASTER.  Always.  That's the hardest and best part about getting really good at something.  In beginning, the gains are rapid and huge.  In the end...

... improvement is made of tiny slices.

But check it out.

If you rode 10 minutes longer each day,
that's 60 hours in a year.
If you ride 10 hours a week,
that 10 minutes turns into an additional 6 weeks of training.

Get off your butt,
get on your bike.

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

Cancel Netflix,
get up earlier.

I got a great compliment last night.  It went like this.

I hate riding behind you.

Why?

That light is so annoying, it's blinding me.

Now you know why this is my goto set up for road riding in the dark.

Save 15%,

use promo code: LIGHTS

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

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

166
7 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 20 Super PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
20 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5972621806

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

THERE'S JUST NOTHING QUITE LIKE URBAN GRAVEL, which is probably why it's so hard to explain.  I mean really, how do you explain the thrill of the road with dirt, and curbs, and alleys, and singletrack...

... without sounding like a madman.

Mat made that clear tonight after tagging along on his MTB.  He couldn't believe how fast we could go across dirt and somewhat raucous terrain.  Then when it got smooth or we hit some pavement...

... he was off the back.

Poor guy.

But, not poor.  

He was a lot richer for the experience.

You've opened my mind guys.

Yeah?

Yeah!... I've got my stoke for riding back.

And there it is.  

Because URBN GRVL opens up a whole new network of loops and trails.  It's a different kind of riding.

Less cars.
Less stress.
Less tradition.
More adventure.
More creative.
More stoke.

Back at the shop Jeff loaded up on a new Kask helmet, RaceDay Bag™, Socks and Honey Stinger waffles...

... saved about $60.

Because he's part of the PEDALposse.

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

166.4
7.8 hrs Sleep 
Gym Work
Stretch and Hypervolt
60 minutes reading + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5967574349

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

THERE ARE A LOT OF HARD TRUTHS IN BIKE RACING.  Some are harder than others.  Most are exceptionally difficult for a certain group of people.  I don't mean to single them out, but I will...

... because I love them, the newly converted.

And, they need to hear...

... It's gonna take more than a year to haulass.

It's true.

And, if we're being really honest...

... It takes 3 years to figure out what kind of racing really suits our talents and skills. 

So let's kit up and get after it.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos

This is one of my favorite themed kits. 

Order by 10/1 and you'll have it in time.

Made from the finest Italian fabrics.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

167.1
8.5 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + Kettle Bell
Stretch and Hypervolt
22pages + journaling
Wahoo batt died... hoping to upload ride later.

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

AT SOME POINT IN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS we'll be calling it quits.  Season over.  Some of it is forced, there just aren't any more races on the calendar.  The rest of it is welcomed...

... there just isn't any more will to race.

Either way, it always make me feel like a bear.  A great grizzly who has rampaged through spring, loaded up in summer, bashed about in fall...

... ready to slumber.

Typically, right before the slumber part I tend to get really bear-like and pack on some extra pounds. 

I take some time off.

I get antsy.

Then I start laying down the base.  First just random miles and whatever pace seems fun.  Then more time in the saddle, purposely down in Z1 and Z2.

Friends might wanna get all racy, I pass.

Keep taking it easy, like a slumbering bear.  My body repairing and rejuvenating.  Lots of miles alone.

The thing I like the most about this grizzly analogy is once the hibernation is over...

... I'm hungry, and lean (and mean).

Good night, now.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo

Now's the time to get lights.  

This promo is lit...

Save 15%

Use promo code LIGHTS

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

168.9
7.2 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
14pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5955790979

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

AMONG THE MANY AMAZING BENEFITS OF RIDING BIKES is the quick getaway.  Thrown on the kit, helmet and shoes, fill up a bottle, grab yer wallet...

... hello freedom.

At the end of a particularly challenging week, I needed a quick vacay.  I did the above and set off with no particular place to go.

I find these rides essential to my survival.

They come with the added bonus of finding little hideaways which remain invisible to rest of our citizenry.

A lone bench high above town.

A bakery on a forgotten corner.

A country store on a quiet road.

A bicycle, mine anyways, has such a great return on investment...

... forget the rewards of good health and friendship, the mini vacations are priceless.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets

This is my wallet of choice.

Made from innertube rubber, it is grippy and it really stays put inside a jersey pocket.

Check it out: 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

167.8
8 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
10 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5950288505

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

---

166.8
7.8 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
12 pages + journaling
No ride today.

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

IT'S NOT THE BEGINNING.  There's too much energy on the start line.  It's not the end.  The magnetic pull of seeing the finish is real.  The hardest part of any race is the middle...

... that's where so many get lost.

Own that. 
Acknowledge it.
Prepare for it.

Isn't that what training is?

All those long days in the saddle, the early mornings in the gym, decisions to eat like an athlete vs a slave to food.  These are the choices that prepare us for the middle...

... because the middle sucks.

It's hard because the energy of the start is long gone, and pull of the finish line is literally nowhere in site.  That's precisely where...

... most people quit.

How do we push through the tough parts, get over the climbs, recover from the challenges of failing bodies and broken parts?

We act as if we are already there, crossing the line, finishing in style.

It takes discipline to push on when we are so desperate to see progress. 

We lean in and trust our training.

We make alliances with our foes.

We hold fast...

... to the end.

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

If you like the above, you'll probably like this.

The books are at the press now and will ship towards the end of September. 

If you're in the PEDALposse, you'll be getting the book as part of this month's swag.

If you're not in the Posse here's the link for the book.

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

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

166.8
7.5 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
22 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5943859210

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

ABOUT 6 WEEKS AGO I PUT OUT A POST ASKING FOR VOLUNTEERS.  Guinea pigs really.  I wanted to Beta test a 10 week training program I've been using for many years, and see how others would respond...

... well, pretty darn good.

They're being challenged,
held accountable,
getting ready!

I was reminded of this today when PEDALposse rider Jeff touched bases.  He was asking about tomorrow's local ride and made the off-handed comment...

... the posts have been really good lately.

They all seem good to me, so I dug deeper.

Why?

Well, they're extra relevant.

Can ya give me an example?

Yeah, that one about getting your sleep right the night before.  It was a really good reminder.

Ah, they've been inspired by the RaceDay Ready 10 program.  I've been thinking about these cats getting ready for their big races and what they need to know.  Some of it share with everybody.

Keep it up!

Can't help myself.

That is truth.  I can't help thinking about how I can help these cats be super prepared on RaceDay...

... because when you're prepared,
you can handle anything life throws at ya.

We've got a lot to do to launch the app.

It'll will be included with the PEDALposse membership.

Speaking of saving a lot of money, one of my all time favorite pieces is the RaceDay Wallet™.

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

First off, it's small.

Second off, the innertube rubber is so grippy it really stays put inside a jersey pocket.

Third off... it's a great place to keep a goal or mantra.

I kept this very wallet with me for nearly a year prepping to break my PR.  It worked for me, might work for you.

Check it out: 

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

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

167
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
13 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5932703805

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

---

166.8
7.8 hrs Sleep 
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
12 pages + journaling
No ride today.

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

THE LOCAL GROUP RIDE.  Every town has one or two or more.  Some are club only, others the more the merrier.  It's where most of us learned to ride in a group...

... and got the taste of racing.

Some groups take it to a whole 'nother level.  It's still renegade all the way, but there are logos and kits and awards and parties and shirts and fundraisers...

... grass roots at it's best.

Our is called The Tuesday Morning World Championships.  We've moved the meet up corner several times, but the course has remained the same...

... for 18 years!

If you're wondering how to get one of these going in your town there are 4 key rules:

1. Leave on time
2. Obey the law
3. Make a friend
4. Have fun!

That's it.  Ya just have to be cold-hearted about leaving on time.  And, we never stop as a group for a flat.  I've found rides that are erratic don't last because people can't plan around them.

Ours is coming up... you should join us.

It's real tame.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/unofficial-tmwc-2021

More of a social ride.

If ya can't make it and just want the t-shirt and fundraiser, we'll mail you the t-shirt.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/unofficial-tmwc-2021

SAVE 25% Join The PEDALindustries POSSE.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

167
8 hrs Sleep 
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
13 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5932703805

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

I'M NOT EVEN SURE THIS IS TRUE.  Well, I'm pretty sure based on my experience.  The perfect ride begins with the...

... perfect night of sleep.

But, we all know the night before a big race can be challenging.  

Our minds are racing,
our bodies are anxious,
our accommodations unfamiliar,
our support crew may have questions,

... here's how I do it.

Race Saturday? Get great sleep Thursday night.  This really works, getting the great sleep early. It makes a huge difference if you get great sleep...

... the night before the night before.

Just knowing the previous night was spot on makes sleeping the night before the big ride a lot easier.  At least, for me.

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

Of course, my RaceDay Bag™ is packed as early as possible, which also takes off a bunch of stress.

And what goes in my bag was tested and checked out well in advance.

Did you know we picked out the very best products to put in our bags, and you can purchase them right off our site?  Yep.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

165.2
5 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
8 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5929854703

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

IGNORE THIS AND WE MAY NEVER RACE AGAIN.  Bold I know, but sometimes it's gotta be that way because too often I've neglected to do the following...

... take some time off.

After a big training block, after the A race, after the event of the summer it's important so schedule a break.

It could be a few days to a couple of weeks of no riding.  You'll know, and you'll know you need it when...

... the zest is gone.

You, me for sure, might think all is well.  Just need to train a little more, that the results and fire will return...

... not likely.

I've seen cats ignore this.  Keep going.  Charging.  Getting weaker and slower...

... until the love is lost.

Consider this:  In surfing we have what is called the soul surfer.  This cat doesn't compete, but is better than most pros.  Surfing for the simple joy of surfing.  For years.  For life.

Take a break when needed...

... start back with some soul riding.

The best kind.

Always.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

This is one thing I never stop doing.  The amazing HyperVolt.  Nearly every night.

It just feels so darn good... well, not after a brutal race like tonight or a giant training ride.  The first few minutes hurt, then it gets better...

... until the legs feel magical again.

Want to save 25%?

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

165.8
8 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
16 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5924330656

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR BIKE.  You can choose your kit.  You can choose who you ride with and which races to focus on.  Just remember one thing...

... those choices will hypnotize you.

Which is not a bad thing or a good thing.

It's just a thing.

Choose wisely.

---

Just one of the many nuggets I found in this very strange book, Outwitting The Devil.  

The environment we live in is determined by the choices we make.  That's kinda obvious.  But, the idea that our environment hypnotizes us and keeps us hostage is powerful, even scary.

Yet, it's true.

For example, years ago we set up our Tuesday Morning World Championships.  For decades I've been hauling my butt outta bed at o'dark thirty to meet the fellas.

It was hard at first.

But, a habit was formed.  Friendships were made.  Events were planned.

Here we are, a million years later, in better shape than 99% of our contemporaries. 

Happy.

Healthy.

Having fun.

A trifecta of goodness, because we chose to be part of the environment of bike racers...

... and most of us don't even "race"!

We're just race ready.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts

It's one of the reasons I like to wear this t-shirt.

Imagine if we all got just one more person to ride a bike.

$20 for the t-shirt, delivered!

... ships free through Sept 7th.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts

Want to save 25%?

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

166.2
8 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
37 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5916345713 PDDL
https://www.strava.com/activities/5917564216 RIDE

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

SATURDAY, WAS THE MOST NAILBITING STAGE OF THE MOST EXCITING GRAND TOUR THIS YEAR.  La Vuelta.  It's been my favorite for years because it is far less predictable...

... far more exciting.

I don't know if it's because it's the last chance to score big wins, the shorter stages, the steeper gradients, or some combination..,

... I always find it inspirational.

Like yesterday, when 3rd place overall lost his mind and quit the race.  He was gapped by 4th place who had forced the move to leap frog him.  This was instigated because Ineos rolled the dice to try and get one of their riders on the final podium...

... meanwhile, some 23 year old cat punks the superstars and wins his first race ever.

But, why is it so inspirational?

Because we believe if we we're in their cleats we'd choose the same outlandish moves...

... to get the win!

If you're gonna sit on your bum and watch TV, get inspired:  race tactics, drama and courageous moves.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts

Who knows, maybe you'll make the move and become a Local Legend.

$20 and the Local Legend Tshirt is yours... ships FREE this week.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts

Want to save 25%?

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

166.8
7.5 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
52 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5911671230

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

GIVE ME SOME WATER!  It's furnace hot.  The head wind, a giant hair dryer from hell...

... blasting us.

We're barely moving.

I grab a bottle from the downtube. 

Bite the valve, pull.

Raise the bottom, suck.

Hot, rancid Tanglike yuck burns my throat.

But, it's all good...

... because this is the kinda training that does a body good.  

Ya know why? 

I mean some know about the hidden benefit to hellish training, and you might, too.  But, if ya don't or if y'ave forgotten...

... training in the heat increase blood plasma.

More blood plasma = More VO2

More VO2 = More aerobic power

And, it doesn't just have to be a scorcher like today...

... could be indoor training with the fan off

... could be jumping in the sauna post ride.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/skratch

As the most interesting man in the world says, Stay hydrated my friends.

Want to save 25%?

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

165
7 hrs Sleep 
10 PullUps 20 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
4 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5906528067

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

EVEN A BLIND SQUIRREL FINDS A NUT EVERY NOW AND THEN.  My friend Glenn taught me that, and I was reminded of it last night.  There I was, first time on the new road bike...

... and I go All Blind Squirrel.

Now, I don't normally do this.  Certainly not in a race... 

... but, maybe I should?

There I am, feeling a little spicy.  I'd been out for a few test rides, always on my "easy" days and never really hit it hard.

Well, you know how that new bike feeling can make ya go kinda crazy right?

That was me.

Really feeling it.

They didn't seem like legit attacks, but I'll be dawgawned if I didn't keep rolling off the front of the group.  

We came to what I call Heartbreak Hill.  It's a right hand sweeper that climbs up a bit.  There is always a stiff breeze from the left, resulting in a fight for the gutter...

... so, like any blind squirrel would, I pegged the gutter.

No room for drafting off me.

Sometimes I'm evil-crafty that way.

There's a shadow of a rider behind me.  I look back, it's Dave.  And, clawing his way on is Henry...

... I keep rolling.

We rotate a bit.

I look back again. 

Huge gap formed.  

We press on.

And on.

All..

... the friggin' way

... to the line!

About 30 minutes, pegged. 

I've done that ride close to one million times and made the long, attacking break stick exactly zero times.

On the cool down, Justin asked me...

What's the name of that bike?

It's a BMC.

No, the name?

A Teammachine.

NO... the name you gave it.

Pure Energy!

I think it's fitting.

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

If you liked this little ditty, you'll probably love this.

PEDALposse members, you'll be getting this in your September shipment.  No need to order the first copy.

If you're not in the PEDALposse yet... well, you probably don't like

• Sweet swag sent to you every month
• Saving 25%
• Earning $ for sharing our mission
• Special access to our events

But, it you do... 

then... Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

165
6 hrs Sleep (unacceptable)
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
16 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5901259347

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

FIRST, I HATE HITTING THE GYM.  But, ya know it's the thing to do.  Especially, in the off season.  I try and keep it manageable...

... I hit the home gym.

Pull Ups and Push Ups are my main stays, and here are the top 5 reasons.

• Strong core 
• Strong back
• Strong grip 
• Better posture
• Much improved bike handling
• Much improved out of the saddle climbing and sprinting.

If you're  not into that stuff,
if you're too busy to spend 5-10 minutes a day,
if you prefer looking like a T-Rex...

... then skip it.

But, really, it's less than 10 minutes most day. 

Way less.

And yes, I know that was 6... 

... I like to overdeliver.

Talk about overdelivering...

... have you checked out the PEDALposse?

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

165.3
8 hrs
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
22 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5891143024

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

ABOVE IS PIC FROM COMPETITOR MAGAZINE, circa 2000.  It's an article I wrote about my first Leadville experience.  The highs, the lows.  I wanted to share the stoke and get others to go.  Many have gone...

... and many have said some day.  

That's the problem.  We think we'll be here forever.  We put off the big events, the things we want to do, that could be lasting memories or even life changing.

Surfergirl reminded me of that today when I showed her a link to a new product.

Remember the magazine articles you wrote.

Yeah.

I have them saved.

Where?

We pulled out a box of mementos.  And there they were.  So cool to look back through some of the fun things we've done on bikes over  the years.  Trips, races, and some writing...

... unforgettable memories.

If you're hesitant to do your first race or event or if you're looking for a fresh approach...

... this is what sparked Surfergirl's memory.

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

After year's of her encouragement, it's done.  

PEDALposse members, you'll be getting this in your September shipment.  No need to order the first copy.

If you're not in yet, tomorrow never comes.

Join now.

Click here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-membership

---

165.3
8 hrs
20 PullUps 40 PushUps + gym work
Stretch and Hypervolt
22 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5891143024

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

HOW LONG SHOULD I WARM UP, DIESEL?  The question reminds me of the old Benz turbo diesel SSB drove.  It had glow plugs which needed to heat up before the engine would fire...

... we’re a lot like those old diesels.

We need to warm up.  A proper warmup can be the difference between winning and losing, PRing and flailing.

But, before we get to answering the warmup question, the part a lot of us foul up – I know I have – is arriving late to the venue.  Not only do we arrive late, we waste all kinds of emotional energy stressing about it...

... energy lost, perhaps costing the win.

I like to arrive at least an hour and a half early, sometimes two and half hours.  How long I’ll need to warm up will determine how early I should arrive.

Here’s the formula, the amount of time spent warming up is inversely correlated to how long the race will last. 

Track racers, whose race might be as short as 60 seconds, often warm up for an hour or more.  Endurance racers, who might race for 9 hours, don’t warm up at all. 

Tonight, I’m racing for about an hour.  I’ll warm up for nearly that long.  Leadville, no warmup at all.

In a nutshell...

... the longer the race, the shorter the warmup.

Play with it.

Master it.

How to warm up I’ll save for another day.

I should point out the main advantage of a proper warmup...

... hitting it hard the second the flag drops.

Depending on the course and the style of race, it's not uncommon for an early gap to form and the leaders never seen again.

Just something to think about.

My friend Char always arrives early.  She's a National Champ on the track, so she's used to showing up way early and getting a proper warm up.

Note, she's also sporting a sweet and very custom RaceDay Bag™.

I'm pointing this out for two reasons:

• If it's good enough for a champ, you probably need one, too.
• If you have one, you probably have a friend who could use one and trust me, you'll want to order that way before Christmas this year.

Go here -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/all-raceday-bags

---

165.7
8 hrs
10 PullUps 30 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
18 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5885674867

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

A GOOD RACE IS LIKE A GOOD BOOK.  They have a hook.  Something that grabs ya.  It could be the name, this history, the location, the recommendation. If they don't...

... we rarely start 'em.  

So, when my riding pal, TTB, suggested a book after I suggested a race I said...

... let me check it out.

I'm hooked.

How's this for an opening scene...

... I'm gonna die.  I'm gonna die.  I'm gonna die.

A battle. 

A young kid, in the thick of it.  Shoulder to shoulder with grisly vets.  A brutal enemy approaching fast.

He survives.

Wounded.

With this wise observation...

... It wasn't luck, it was training.

Sure sounds like my first race to me.  It was a crit.  The speeds were astonishing and the angst to win palpable.  

That first turn did feel like I could die.

Soon, I was shot out the back.

Wounded ego wounded.

My veteran friends finished laughing and happy with the effort.  There was a big difference between me and them...

... it wasn't luck, it was training.

I'll close with a quote from the Purple One...

So when you call up that shrink in Beverly Hills
You know the one, Dr. Everything'll-Be-Alright
Instead of asking him how much of your time is left
Ask him how much of your mind, babe

Train wisely my friends.

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

And when you go to battle, look sharp, and protect thy hands.

This month... buy the gloves and the socks are free.

No promo code needed.

---

166.9
7 hrs
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
Stretch and Hypervolt
38 pages + journaling
https://www.strava.com/activities/5880065545

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS TO LOSE THE RACE.  Some of them have cute little initials we pronounce as verbs.  The two most popular are DNF'd and DNS'.  Did not finish, did not start.  They can be found at the bottom of any start list...

... the other you won't find anywhere.

Yes, the third and most insidious way to lose a race is the saddest of all. 

When you think about it, DNF can be for a variety of reasons.  Straight up quit because didn't want to post a bad result...

...Ugh!...

... to crashed out, had a mechanical, bad stomach, cramps, lost my mind, felt like taking a nap.  It's. a long list and often very valid.

That's why they are above DNS.

DNSing has it's own reason...

... life, priorities, work, sick, etc... also, generally worthy.

For the most part, I'm down with all the reasons we might not finish because shiz happens.  We prepare, we do our best...

... so, forget the rest!

But, the third is DNRing.  Did not register.

This one never shows up in the record books...

... there is no record for not trying.

So, get registered. 

It's what all winners do.

There's an old tshirt touting the virtues of Life Behind Bars, the bars being handle bars.

If you're gonna do that, you'll need a firm grip.

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

This month... buy the gloves and the socks are free.

No promo code needed.

 ---

NEARLY 9 YEARS AGO MY BEST TRAINING PARTNER SHOWED UP.  He hadn't ridden since he was a kid.  He wanted to get serious, really give it a go.  Sweeter words were never heard...

... Hey Dad, I wanna try racing.

I picked up an MTB for him, Sponsored By Dad was still a thing then.  But, the road was calling.  I hadn't raced road for decades...

... I'd forgotten how exciting it was to put down the power and have traction.

The training was so fun that next summer.  Lots of time riding side by side. 

Then the racing started.  Mostly he raced.  I met him all over the West - Bend, SLC, Phoenix, Tucson.  Supporting, driving, occasionally kitting up to give it a go.  He charged through the categories...

... I was inspired to get back at it, too.

Time passed. 

School got busy. 

Career got started. 

Bike got sold.

Recently, he moved back to SoCal. 

They decided to settle down here.  

His old MTB, from way back when, came into the shop to get some major servicing done.

An order went in for a serious BMC MTB racing rig.

Being the sneaky sunuvagun that I am, I suggested You should train for Leadville and do it with me next year...

... figuring it will go nowhere.

We met at Laguna Wilderness today, some of the best singletrack around.  

I'm numbering my rides on Strava.

Whadaya mean?

This is ride number 5 since I'm back at it.

Was it wrong of me to enjoy him huffing and puffing while I cruised along?...
... not after him shelling me for those brief years of racing.

Was it inappropriate to try and drop him on the downhills?...
... not when I looked over my should to see him smile and say I'm drafting.

Was it bad of me to sell him on an upcoming race?...
... not when he says he just wants to be able to keep up with me.

Back at his car, he uploaded.

I didn't accomplish anything.

Huh?

First time here, no cups or PRs.

I could have said...

No, you didn't unless you count your dream career, marriage and carving out your own place on the planet.

... before I could get a word out...

Next time will be nothing but PRs.

I hope I can keep up.

One of the things I loved about those racing days was talking about what was working.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

For sure, this works.

It's like magic, which is exactly what I'm gonna need.

Top 4 Reasons
People Join
The PEDALposse

• 25% Savings On Every Order
  (15-20% on bikes & wheels).

• Surprise Swag Every Month
  (you know you deserve it)

• Referral Rewards
  yep, I'm gonna pay ya when you spread the word

• Special Events
  me and you and who knows who?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

Best trail sign ever.

 ---

ONE OF THE THINGS I MISS ABOUT HAVING A POWER METER is seeing my cadence.  Pre-power meter, I would geek out on cadence, then I got a way from it.  And then, I got back into it with my previous MTB...

... looking at those revs.

There's something satisfying about seeing that little strip of data.  Comforting almost.  Easily controlled...

... yes, the rhythm can be easily lost or found.

Sometimes we're blasting up a hill.  In the zone.  The pitch increases, or maybe it's the lactic burn...

... suddenly, we're going nowhere. 

Seemingly backward.  

We're tired.

Not thinking.

Just grinding.

That moment right there, yeah... that'd be a good one to see our cadence.  Realize it's all wonkadoo..,

... and shift the dern gears.

It's like the magnetic Gloria Estefan says...

... The rhythm is gonna get ya!

The only question is...

... Is it going to be a long grind or a quick zip to the top?

I've found 90 revs a minute to be my sweet spot.

What's yours?

---

Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

MY FRIEND JEANA SENT ME THIS PIC with the words You were too fast!.  She was referring to my half my head missing from the image.  I wasn't.  In fact, I was working my way backwards from first to fourth...

... that's the truth.

I like the sentiment nonetheless because I was going a lot faster than I had gone the previous two weeks.  These short, 1 hour efforts are really demanding.  I rarely ever ride like this.  

Was I bummed to falter at the end, sure.

That's normal.

But, only a fool would focus on the scoreboard vs the positive results.

We're out for mastery, and as the great Leonardo DaVinci preached it's going to take...

... Ostinato rigore.

Stubborn rigor.

Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

MY OTHER DAD PASSED THIS EVENING.  He came into my life when I needed a strong father figure.  And boy, was he strong.  Like you just knew he wasn't to be trifled with and at the same time...

... he had the biggest heart ever.

He had no business getting involved with us.  He and our mother were on and off at best, but he was always on as far as we were concerned.  We had a bond, an unexplainable one that lasted a lifetime.

He taught me tennis, a sport he fell in love with later in life.  I wasn't very good.  I was weak, and gangly, a true late bloomer.  He told me that was an advantage...

... I'd be forced to learn proper technique and my mind.

Always looking for the good in any situation.

But, the best thing he taught me when it came to life and sports was that was okay to be underestimated...

... he'd been underestimated his entire life.

He was a Mexican immigrant, he wasn't very big, his own father had been largely  missing...

... and yet, he'd built a wonderful life for himself...

... because he was a fighter.

So many times I saw him take the court against larger, younger, faster players and drive them absolutely crazy...

... he won through hustle and guile.

He knew it,
they knew it,
I knew it...

... and I loved it.

It was simple and raw and pure.

He was, and remains, a true hero.

A mentor.

A giver.

A father.

As I write this, I'm not sad.  We had a lot of good times during the past year.  Cancer can be kind that way.

He'd lost so much weight the boyish features in his face returned.  He looked like the young man he once was, full of life, shipping off to Korea - cigarette in mouth, a t-shirt, rolled jeans.  Black hair, big confident smile...

... hustle and guile.

Till we meet again, Roberto Alcaraz Gomez.

---

Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

I'VE BEEN RACING FOR DECADES.  Some years a lot, most years a handful, others just once.  I don't think I've missed a year since 1997...

... but that hasn't been the goal.

By that I mean racing in and of itself was never the driver.  Don't get me wrong, I love it...

... and here are the top three reasons why:

• Having a big race or ride on the calendar keeps my base fitness up.  My fatness may increase during the year, my miles may dip, but there's a standard to be maintained if I'm racing at some point.  That has requires great health year round.  
• I've been fortunate to be able to have a regular midweek ride that doubles as a race and triples as a support group.  These cats become, over time, my confidants and trusted friends.
• The last is figuring out what it's going to take to have a great day on the bike.  This is one of those constant curiosities that keeps me fascinated.  What can I do?  What is possible?  What's it gonna take to accomplish X? 

That's it.

That's why I race.

Stay in shape, friendship, the personal challenge.

Why am I racing tonight?  Get used to intensity again, see my pals, hang onto Chris' wheel as long as possible...

... I got so excited by this prospect I neglected to send the email.

Race recap:  led first half lap, forced break with Series Leader Kurt and the alwaysfast Chris, lost contact with them on final lap and blew the sprint.  Kurt won.  The great part about losing is realizing how much improvement there is needed.  

Have you checked out all the benefits of joining the PEDALposse?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

I KNOW IT'S LATE AND YOU'RE TIRED, or maybe it's cold and your cozy, or possibly it's early and dark.  Whatever it is, here is some really solid advice about tomorrow's workout...

... you should skip it.

I was thinking about that when I got a text from Lane.  He told me he's down 65 lbs. since joining the PEDALposse and needed to change his shirt size.  Then he added this... 

... It's time to go PR LoToJa.

That's a 200 mile bike race, not a ride.  Through 3 different states...

... guess what Lane hasn't been doing.

Skipping the workouts. 

He's been skipping the donuts and ice cream, but not the workout.  Which is why I highly recommend you skip tomorrow's work out...

... but today, get your buns in gear.

Same goes for tomorrow, which will be today when you wake up.

And the next day.

I like Lane's chances, do you like yours?

There are a lot of reasons to join the PEDALposse.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

Here are the top 4:

• 25% Savings On Every Order
  (15-20% on bikes & wheels).

• Surprise Swag Every Month
  (you know you deserve it)

• Referral Rewards
  yep, I'm gonna pay ya when you spread the word

• Special Events
  me and you and who knows who?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

I'M ALWAYS AMAZED AT THE AMOUNT OF PEOPLE THAT CONFUSE WISHBONE WITH BACKBONE.  It really doesn't matter the topic, but we see it all the time in with cycling abilities...

... I wish I could ride as fast as you.

Ok, come and ride and stretch and eat and lift and do what I do...

... Oh, I didn't mean it like that.

What I want to say next is something like, 
Well, just how the hell did you mean it?  Don't you realize all good things require work?  What kind of a child are you anyway?

What I end up saying is something like,
Well, let me know when you really want it.

if we're going to be great at something, anything...

... we've got to do it with real intent.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

When we have real intent secrets are unfolded.

My friend Kurt said to me at recent race... I read the blog all the time.  I've learned a lot of your secrets.  Then proceeded to rip my legs off.

I'm guessing he knows about PR Lotion.

Save 25% when you join the PEDALposse -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

IT WAS MORE THAN MISTY, LESS THAN RAINY, OCCASIONALLY DRIZZLY.  About an hour in and my socks, gloves and butt were soaked.  I wasn't cold, just drenched.  My Wahoo screen's message was only a wish...

... RIDE AUTO-PAUSED. 

While stopped at one of the few lights on the route, I thought to myself...

... I wish.

We rode on.

I would say it was more of a commitment to the plan than joy to be riding.  A lot more.  But, there was something else...

... something to be overcome.

First, there's the obvious If I can't handle the rain on a training ride, how am I gonna deal with it racing?

• Flats.  We saw a lot of cats pulled over fixing flats.  Fortunately, the four of us are all running tubeless set ups and this wasn't an issue.  
• Traction.  I dropped my PSI a bit and felt confident all day except one turn where I found myself on our extraslick road paint.  A minor slip, a great reminder to stay off the paint, all paint.
• Being soaked sucks, but before long we adjust and adapt.
• Lube, my UFO lube got pretty noisy after 3 hours.
• Food.  Still gotta eat and drink, but we drank a lot less - we weren't hammering.
• Glasses.  Love my photochromatic lens for all light conditions.

Seeing far fewer riders on the today reminded me why the rain never bothers me in a race, because I know most aren't nearly as prepared...

... one of the greatest superpowers of all is experience.

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

It's always good to have lights on board, especially as the days shorten.

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

---

A DUDE STOPPED ME OUTSIDE OF CHRONIC TACOS.  I was getting lunch and he saw the van.  Asked, What is PEDAL industries, is it like Peloton? I had a lot of responses run through my mind...

... I settled on the truth.

Because the truth of the matter is that Peloton for all it's swanky swagger and dressed up drama...

... has managed to get a lot people on bikes.

Yes, they are indoors.  But, who cares?  Really?

Especially since a lot of those fancied up trainer riders are moving outdoors and riding long distances and doing gran fondos and tours and...

... they are even doing races.

Yep.

As far as I'm concerned, we're just one big happy family...

... spinning our ways to better health and more fun.

Who knows, maybe they'll be like you and join the incredibly awesome PEDALposse?

Click here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-pedalposse

---

FOR SURE, THE FASTEST I EVER COVERED THE DISTANCE THROUGH CAMP PENDLETON MARINE BASE WAS NEARLY 30 YEARS AGO.  I know what you're thinking, that it would be impossible because today's bikes are so much faster...

... not as fast as this bike.

First off, it was powered by not one rider but two.  Not just any two riders, but John Howard and some other superstar...

... and the bike had a fairing!

Yep, and tandem with a fairing.

This was on the world famous Swami's Wednesday ride - still one of the fastest rides around.  Back in those days all the top pro triathletes hit that ride:  Scott Tinley, Scott Molina, Dave Scott.

On this particular day, it was said tandem on the front doing major damage.

Tacked on their wheel was the incredible Kenny Souza, World Champion duathlete.

Behind him, little ol' me.

We burst through the final gate into San Onofre Campground, pegged the whole way over 30mph.

It was all I, or Kenny, could do to hang on.  

Nobody was sharing pulls.

As we cleared the gate, I looked back...

... mainly to see if I could fall back a few wheels and recover.

Nobody there.

50+ cats, gone.

Obliterated.

Now, I think about that fairing a lot.  To this day, it's an impressive memory.

Every time I zip tie a numberplate on my bike I put it as vertical and square as possible.  There is absolutely no science behind it, just the memory of that insanely fast bike...

... until today!

A company called Ribble announced a bike with a handlebar designed to create drag to break up the air around a racer's leg.  Kinda like a handlebar acting like a mini-fairing.

I suppose I could do some low budget wind testing coasting with and without a plate down a local hill.

But, I think the real point is not to fret that our aero bike just got slower because the race promoter wants a number plate up front...

... or maybe it's just a way for me to share a story about the fastest I ever rode that famous section.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Hard to believe, but this was pre-helmet days.  Maybe a hairnet.  These days I'm all for helmets, especially KASK.

The Protone is a great all arounder.  The Valegro I like for MTB.  The Utopia for speed.  The Rapido a great value.

Use promo code FAIRING

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

ON A BIKE RIDE, YEARS AGO, I MET A MAN TRYING TO BUILD THE STATUE OF RESPONSIBILITY ON THE WEST COAST to balance the Statue of Liberty on the East Coast. It wasn't his idea, it's Victor Frankl's, he was tasked/called to make it happen...

... I wanted to know more.

Frankl's book, Man's Search For Meaning, had, and continues to have, a great impact on my thinking.  In fact, I would say it is the basis of my belief that PRs are better than KOMs...

... why I'm always happy with any race result as long as my best efforts were given.

But, that's not Responsibility.

The statue is based on the concept that we have a responsibility to reach down and help those who need a hand.

It's beatiful,
stunning.

I think this is a noble idea.  However, I propose it should be anchored with the wisdom of another great man I learned about after a ride once, talking to my friend Dan...

The best thing you can do for me is to take care of you.
- Jim Rohn.

We all have the liberty to ride bikes. 

We have a responsibility to maintain them, ride safely and carry the appropriate tools and nutrition to complete a successful outing...

... at least you do if you want to ride with me.

Accidents will happen, parts will fail, food will be forgotten and those of us who can will help out...

... much more willingly if you've done your part.

Funny thing is, the best help never comes from a sense of duty or responsibility or coercion...

... it comes from love.

Maybe we need a Statue of Love in the center of the country. 

What if we had a new RAAM route, from Responsibility through Love to Liberty?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

Here's what I'd be fueling with on such a ride.

Use promo code RESPONSIBILITY

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

---

WHAT MOST DIDN'T SEE IN THE FACES OF THE RACERS TONIGHT IS WHAT LIES BENEATH THE HELMET.  Trust me on this, because I know a lot of these cats, there are amazing stores of triumph and defeat...

... these are the real spokes in our communal wheel.

We develop them over the miles we share together.  We listen, we talk, we console...

... and we help...

... because we see real acts of courage and bravery.

Here's a glimpse:  parents of a severely handicapped children, spouse relapsing with cancer, job loss, addiction battles, etc.

The questions people ask us and the answers we never give.

Why do we race?

Part of it is straight up self-medication.

Isn't that hard, to ride up a mountain like that?

Try ________, that's hard.

How do you go without cake/candy/donuts?

Look, I'm dealing with _____ I need every advantage I can get.

Yes, I was overcome with love for our people tonight.  Seeing them covered in dirt and grime and sweat...

... and still smiling and happy and congratulatory.

These cats are truly courageous and brave...

... I bet you are, too.

--- 

Tip of the hat to Rod Stewart's Forever Young for the title.

---

If there's a local legend in your life...

... maybe they need this limited edition t-shirt?

I'm making a very limited run of these for the PEDALposse, which they will receive for free...

... and you can purchase here

https://pedalindustries.com/products/local-legeng-t-shirt

Orders MUST BE PLACED by 8/18, end of day.

This is dirt and grime and sweat

These are smiles, covered in dirt and grime and sweat (courtesy Crazy Mike)

Chris brings the Jarrito's every week.

Bow sent me this, talk about a climb that stings

---

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries 

I REALLY DON'T LOVE RECOGNITION AS MUCH AS THE NEXT GUY.  Do you?  Maybe I've been at this too long.  Maybe I'm a grumpy old cat.  Maybe I'm just awesomely well adjusted, nah.  Whatever it is, about once a week...

... I'm reminded of how much I loathe participation awards.

You know what I'm talking about right?  You get 'em all the time, don't you?  

The worst part...

... as much as they disgust me, it's kinda true, but not for their reasons.

I reckon you are just as worthy.

You're the cat all the neighbor kids ask about bike stuff.  

What should I get?

How do I  ___?

Where should I ride?

Who will win the Tourlympics ___?

When should I upgrade?

Congratulations.  You really are a Local Legend, for all the right reasons.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/local-legeng-t-shirt

If you've got a sense of humor, 
or an under appreciated friend

I'm making a very limited run of these for the PEDALposse, which they will receive for free...

... and you can purchase here

https://pedalindustries.com/products/local-legeng-t-shirt

Orders MUST BE PLACED by 8/18, end of day.

---

WE DON'T HAVE ENOUGH CAMERAS IN BIKE RACING.  Sometimes we do, most times we don't.  As a result, it can be hard has helk...

... to know the result.

It all depends on our point of view.  

Take a sprint finish.

The head on view is nearly impossible to gauge who won let alone how it went down.

Add a side view and we get a sense of the tremendous speed at which the cats are racing.

Bring in a top view and we get an idea of how it's unfolding.

With a GoPro mounted on a bike the danger and explosiveness gets revealed.

Slow it all down and we are immersed in the drama.

Most decisions are infinitely better with various points of view.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/bikeshop-sks-airchecker-digital-display-pressure-gauge-presta-and-schrader

Yet another reason to have an awesomely accurate pressure gauge.

Most pumps are moderately accurate.

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---

ABOUT A YEAR AGO I RAN INTO MY FRIEND JOHNNY O'MARA ON AN MTB RIDE.  (O'Show, as he's known, is a former World Champ MX racer and multitime MTB National Champ.) He was training with a young kid, 17ish, Jet Lawrence.  Fast forward to today, searching for La Vuelta, I landed on a motocross race...

... and there's Johnny coaching the same kid to a huge pro victory.

Jet looked incredibly at ease and relaxed...

... which is exactly what we look for in a coach, someone to help get our heads straight.

I finally found La Vuelta, and the last man off in the TT is last year's winner Primoz Roglic.  Sure, he just won a gold medal in the Olympic TT but this course was super technical.  I wondered if his string of nasty crashes at The Tour would factor...

... you'd never know by the way he attacked each corner.

Spoiler alert:  he destroyed his competition and won the stage.

Later I pulled up the Leadville100 results.  I was anxious to see how my pals fared.  It is so hard to race at 10,000'...

... they all ripped it up.

Earlier in the day, I'd been riding the ridge opposite one of our local trails.  It's a steep single track that can easily get out of hand if you're not paying attention...

... appropriately named Mentally Sensitive.

You can't really tell how steep it is from this angle, but I think that's the thing about watching someone winning and ripping...

... it's hard to appreciate the mental battle they conquered long before the victory.

Part of that mental battle is daily...

... specifically, what are we doing to be strong?

I posted already about this book, but it deserves a reminder, and it's emphasis on the holy trinity of strength: PullUps, Burpees, Squats.

Thought about all ride, as I indoctrinate the initial group of Slayers.

A few shots I took along the way to my favorite reward.

Rewards are a big part of the mental game.

So is confidence, and I can't say enough about how confident I am with these Pirelli Cinturato gravel tires.

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

Use promo code: MENTALLYSENSITIVE

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

---

THE PROBLEM WITH GOING TOO FAST isn't actually going to fast.  Unanticipated problems can crop up for sure, from equipment failure to plain ol' loss of control.  But, the real issue is...

... how we see speed.

If it's the first time we've ever hit 50, on bike with not much more than underpants for protection, that's gonna look different than if we've done it 100 times.

---

Sometimes I think it would be better to call our riding between races Practice instead of Training. 

Training, stressful.

Training feels like we know what to do and we are just grooving it in.

Practice feels more playful, like it's okay to try several different approaches into a turn or off a jump. 

Practice, fun.

---

How we see a problem, like too much speed, determines how we react.

How we react determines quality of life.

---

I hope you get in some good practice this weekend.

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

When I practice, I always want a good firm connection to my bars.

That's why I love these gloves.

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

---

AS THE INITIAL GROUP OF GUINEA PIGS GOES THROUGH THE PEDALslayer PROGRAM, I thought I'd riff on some of the things we're doing.  One is keeping track of our weight and sleep...

... what's get measured gets managed.

There are obvious and not so obvious reasons to measure these two metrics.

Obvious:

Tracking weight and sharing it with each other is a motivator by itself.  It's gratifying to hit our power to weight goals.

Not so obvious:

Weighing ourselves each day gives immediate feedback on our diet choices in the previous 24 hours.  There's a lot to learn there.

Obvious:

Well, is this obvious to you?  Sleep, proper sleep, is a super power.  Too often we discount the affects of sleep on physical performance.  Those that have fitness trackers like Whoop are keenly aware of the affect of sleep on their overall readiness to compete.

Not so obvious:

We are measuring time in bed, just the act of getting to be on time goes a long way to getting proper sleep.

If you're reading this in the morning, weigh yourself...

... in the evening, get into bed on time.

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Speaking of lifestyle changes...

... modest is hottest...

... check out the vintage photo version collab with the Horton Collection.

Use promo code: MEASURE

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

---

I RAN INTO MY PAL WOODY LAST NIGHT AT THE RACE.  His arm was in a sling.

What happened?

Crashed.

Where?

Big Bear.

Racing?

Enduro, first one I ever did. 

You probably would have won.

I know.

How? (He's super fast and talented)

I have video.

Let's see it.

We watched it.  Regular speed.  SloMo.  Backwards.

There it was, clear as a new Oakley lens, coming out of a turn he clipped a little rock which changed his exit angle sending him shoulder first into an immovable pine.

Ouch!  

3 broken bones.

Surgery?

Nope, just take it easy.

So, did you catch the first thing to do after a crash?...

... and I'm talking about after taking stock of body and bike.

The first thing to do is figure out the cause.  He happened to have actual video, but we all have our own video running all the time in our heads.  

Rewind and review.

Learn from it.

Take note of the surface you were riding on.  Tire pressure.  Cats you were battling, if you were.  State of your equipment.  State of mind, distracted or focused.

Figure it.

Catalog it.

And move on.

If we don't stop and pause and reflect we are destined to repeat our errors...

... which reminds me of the number one mistake I see people make...

... their heads are down, not looking far enough ahead.

A wise man once said, Where there is no vision the people perish.

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The funniest lesson I ever learned was when I rolled out sans helmet.  I was barely moving.  Looking straight down adjusting something and ran straight into a parked car, launched forward and rang my bell good.

Now, I'm always covered in style and comfort.

If I had to chose one, it'd be the Protone.  Super comfy.

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https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Beautiful evening.

---

I GOT WHACKED TONIGHT.  It's the local MTB race - 700+ racers every week.  Halfway through the season and I thought I'd stick my head in an give it a whirl...

... nearly had it removed.

But, that's the thing about racing.  We all have a the will to win.  It's not enough. Read on.

Then the gun went and my pal Kurt, the series leader, went to the front and drilled it.

We never caught him...

... especially me.

I was actually feeling really good on the first lap.  With some really good guys, in the top five.  So much so I thought I could bridge up to Kurt if I wanted, or that with our rotation we'd eventually catch him.

The second lap, hurt a bit more.

These short races, under an hour, are hell.  All out, not at all what I've been working on.  Trust me, these cats are battle hardened halfway through the season.

The third lap, hurt a lot...

... I pulled the plug halfway through and promptly lost 2 minutes.

The will to win, that's easy...

... the will to prepare, that's difference between the champions and the pack fodder.

I rode a fourth lap, just to contemplate how bad of a beating I'd received. 

From 2nd to 7th in one lap.  That's an impressive move.  The question I was asking myself was this...

... do I have the will to prepare for this kind of racing?

At a minimum, I need to finish strong.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/amp-pr-lotion

Probably, especially since it will help me prep for Sea Otter.

And of course, I'll be lathering up with PR Lotion for the race and the race specific training.

It's that good.

If you haven't tried it...

... are you crazy?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/amp-pr-lotion

There is nothing like the afterglow of a good beating.  I sat long after everyone was gone, soaking up the moment and enjoying the sunset

It's always great to see so many friends.

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