WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY WHEN IT COMES TO RIDING AND RACING YOUR BIKE?   Listening to an old Jim Rohn recording I was reminded of his insistence that we all have a personal philosophy.  A way of approaching life that is our truth.

... what is your philisophy(s) when it comes to riding and racing you bicycle?

Here are a few of mine:

Every Day Is RaceDay™.   To me that means every day has a purpose:  recovery, strength, endurance, etc.

Another is PRs > KOMs.  Sure, it's great to win a race or snag a KOM.  However, it's superior to set a PR.  Knowing I did my best and there was nothing left to give is everything.

Ride Fast, Don't Hurry.  I got this from the great John Wooden who implored his players to be quick, yet not hurried.  Hurrying is when we make mistakes.  Being fast or quick means we are error free. 

Here's one I haven't talked about enough...

... having a giant calendar of your upcoming events.  Mounted up where you see and appreciate what you're committing to make happen.  To work backwards and arrange your training, work, family and other commitments for a few key events each year.

I believe in this so much I created a calendar just for us...

... and it's HUGE!

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2

We're going to create a video tomorrow... but quite frankly, I'm just too excited to wait.  

We're going into production and will be able to ship in about 2 weeks.

Here's the deal... you can order now and save 33%,

using this promo code: PHILOSOPHY

Check it out: 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2

What are your philosophies?

—

163.4 lbs 
Paddleboard
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4660241280

ENDURANCE SPORTS, LIKE OUR BELOVED CYCLING, REQUIRE A LOT OF ENDURING.  You already know this.  Just like you know the more you ride the deeper your reserves.  I was thinking how much riding style has changed in the last 5 years ...

... by adding an endurance hack to my quiver.

There was a time when I'd rarely ride out of the saddle.  I was a spinner, maybe more of a grinder.  Then I had an encounter with a coach who told me something unbelievable...

I want you do the Live Oak climb out of the saddle next time.

All 5 minutes?

As much as you can.

Why?

Because with your body structure you'll be more efficient.

I didn't believe her. 

1. I could only ride out of the saddle for about 30 seconds at a time... and that was only when my back was tight or I just need a quick change of pace.  
2. See number 1.

So I gave it a try.  Sure enough, my pace remained the same and my heart rate actually dropped slightly.

But, I was so weak.

That's when I read the Geoff Kabush's metric for mountain bikers... you've got to be able to do 50 push ups.  Concurrently, on an episode of Tim Ferris' podcast, Jamai Foxx said the only exercise that matters is pull ups. 

Naturally, I decided to combine their advice and start doing push ups and pull ups daily.  Those two exercises done regularly have made a huge difference in my riding.

Being able to climb for long stretches out of the saddle allows me to use my muscles differently.  Some get to rest a bit while others get to pitch and help for a change. 

Want to see how much push up and pull ups matter? 

Do a set of each to failure, back to back, when you're fresh.  Next time you come in from a moderately easy ride, do those exercises again. I think you'll be surprised at how much more difficult they are post ride.

Plus, there's nothing wrong with looking a little less like a T-Rex and more like a super hero...

... okay, that might be a stretch, but I'll bet you'll linger just a little longer in just your bibs before you pull on the changing poncho next time you're at the races.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho

We offer the ponchos in four different color schemes, or we can make them for you team to match your kit and RaceDay Bags™

Use promo code: LARGEAMOUNTS

To save and get free shipping.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho

—

162.6 lbs 
40 PullUps 120 PushUps 120 squat presses
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4655039116

RIDE REPORT:

• Was so excited to ride hard today, I could barely sleep.
• Woke up early, still left late.
• PR'd getting to the meet up.
• Had a genius idea on the way home....

Put on your biking clothes.

What.

Kit up, and ride towards me.

Why?

Because we're gonna go to Moulin and indulge ourselves.

Okay!

Now why in Todd's name would I invite Surfergirl to crash my Tuesday tradition of riding with the fellas?  What could I possibly be thinking?

It's pretty obvious, really.

1.  I ride the last 40+ minutes alone on Tuesdays.  Most of the time I'm so smoked one would hardly call it riding.  I'm barely able to turn the cranks. 

2.  Most Tuesdays, Surfergirl isn't surfing.  She has a beautiful bike that needs riding.  Her pace will synch up nicely with my slog.

3.  We both enjoy delicious croissants smothered in goodness.

But, for sure there was one more reason...

... I knew I could bribe into listening to the blowbyblow of the ride.

You're gonna think I'm just trying to sell a bill of good on this next part, but you'd be wrong.  What I'm going to do is try and convince you to do what I did this morning... because I really do want the best for you.

Not only was I excited.  Not only did I spend a good 20 minutes a day on my legs with the HyperVolt.  Not only was I off the bike Sunday, and riding easy yesterday.  

TBH, I do the above almost every week any way.

But, this morning I did something I hadn't done since I was ramping up the intensity for Dirty 30 way back in November...

... and it's the reason I left a little late for the ride.

I would put a picture here, but I don't want to give it away to the speed readers.  This is really good info, just for you and me.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/my-top-secret-secret-weapons

You'll want to use this promo code:  TRADITIONS

Sometimes I put the promo code on the product page, but not this time.  This time it's just for the careful readers.

PS... is Surfergirl invited next week?  Hellyeah, it's a great tradition.

---

162.6 lbs 
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4647650387

I HAVE TUNNEL VISION.  Is it bad?  I dunno.  Want proof?  I can't find a darn thing, even when it's close enough to kill me.  Is it curable?  I'm not sure I care.  It took a long time hone it...

... and it's served me well, manymany times.

For example... One day, after climbing up for a couple of hours, we gathered at the top of the Trabuco trail.  Preparing to shred the tight shaley single-track that skirted the super steep mountain side... I was pumped, raring to go.

12ish minutes later, after the more challenging portions, I waited for my pals.

RiderX rolled up.

All that cactus was freaking me out.

Where?

Up there.

Hmmm.

So were those giant, jagged boulders all over the place!

Really?

Yeah, I had to stop a bunch.

Oh...

I wondered if we’d ridden the same trail?  I wasn’t being a tool; just hadn’t seen any of it.

That's when I self-diagnosed Tunnel Vision... and I knew exactly how I got it:  repeated exposure to challenging situations.  The only way to ride 'em was controlling my mind, focusing solely on the ridable parts of the trail.  Never even considering the dangers or threats.

It’s not always easy...

... especially as I get older and continue to ride with younger and younger cats.  My vision, literal vision, isn’t as sharp.  The reactions are a little slower.  When my vision expands I have to recenter myself, remind myself to see only the good stuff...

... but, it's worth it, like all superpowers.

One disadvantage to riding with said confidence is rolling up on other riders, hikers, runners, strollermoms, etc...

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell

... which is why I love this bell.  I wouldn't say it's going to drown out the headphones you can hear from a mile away, but most folks hear it from a good distance and appreciate the cheerful chime.

Use promo code: TUNNEL

You'll save and get free shipping!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell

---

163.6 lbs 
PushUps and PUllUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4642930993

ON A RECENT RIDE, WE WERE DISCUSSING ALL THE LESSONS WE'VE LEARNED AND THEIR PARALLELS OFF THE BIKE.  Is it all the time we spend doing bikey things that the world starts to look so bikey?  I found this amazing statement in a book I just finished...

... and I naturally applied to bicycle racing.

The power of one is above all things the power to believe in yourself, often well beyond any latent ability you may have previously demonstrated.  The mind is the athlete, the body simply the means it uses to run faster, jump higher, shoot straighter, kick better, swim harder, hit further or box better.

To really get the impact of the above statement, you'll need to read the book.  A movie was made, but ya know... the book is always better.  

Don't fret, I haven't given away the punchline or even a hint of what the book is about... just a piece of what us bikey people stow might in our minds when we find the going particularly rough.

Believe in yourself.

The mind is the athlete.

The body the means.

Tomorrow, I'm going to wake as I have for the past 20ish years and read Dr. King's famous speech.  If you've never read it start to finish, click here.  Afterward, I'll review the dreams I have for 2021.

Then, I'll head out for a ride.

It's one of my favorite rituals.

So, if you're trying to reach me...

https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors

I'll get back to you as soon as I can... no doubt I'll be wearing this super soft shirt with the not so cuddly message.  

Use promo code: PEEKAY

And you can get this shirt delivered for $17, all in.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors

 ---

164.4 lbs 
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hours sleep
http://strava.com/activities/4638188185 

THERE'S A LOCAL SINGLE-TRACK I'VE PLAYED ON PLENTY OF TIMES CALLED T AND A.  I'm not sure what the T and the A stand for or what the phrase T and A means...

... but, I know I got a lot of T and A today.

For example:

Training at Altitude,
we spent about half the ride over 5000'

Together and Alone,
we started together until Andy couldn't contain himself any longer and rode on ahead.

Trailblazing and Advice,
we did some serious trailblazing and were advised to stay helk off the private property.

Traction and Adrenalin
there's nothing like the adrenalin rush you get with the traction of fat tires carving pavement.

However, the best T and A of the day was by far...
... all the trails and asphalt we covered.

It was a perfect day for riding all kinds of surfaces.

Of course, our tails were still lit with lights.  It's just an easy safety measure.

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

These lights last a long time and have nearly 180 degrees of awareness.

Use promo code TANDA

to save on any of our lights.

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

 ---

164 lbs 
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hours sleep

FRIDAYS, WHEN I CAN PULL IT OFF, AND I TRY TO PULL IT OFF EVERY FRIDAY, I like to sneak over to a little out of the way place where nobody knows me.  You know, the kind of place where your people don't hang.  One you can ride to, prop up your bike, get a snack...

... and do nothing.

Doing nothing ain't as easy as it sounds. 

My preciousphone is with me for snapping pics along the ride, and it's hard as helk not to reach for it.  So, I turn it off.

After a few moments, the urge to grab it goes away and the colors and sounds of this part of town become more vibrant and distinct.

I used to bring a note pad and jot down ideas, but I don't like that any more.  

Doing less makes the stop so much more enjoyable.

It's addicting...

... and a great way to start the last day of the work week, fresh and creative.

... and roll in to tomorrow's suretobeblistering ride rested and ready.

Since this promo did so well, I'm going to extend it through the weekend.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

My all around favorite is the Protone.  If I had to chose one that would be it.  The Valegro is excellent for MTB... and I really like it for night riding because it's easy to mount a helmet light up there.  The Utopia is most aero.  The Rapido is a good all arounder.

Use promo code:  GoChar

To save 20%.  Code expires on 1/16/21.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

164.2 lbs 
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4625406198

YEAH, BUT YOU LIKE IT... is a complaint/comment I often get from, well, everybody.

I'm going for a giant ride.

I wish I could.

You can, if I can.

Yeah, but you like it.

I'm want to head to work early today.

I wish I wanted to.

You can, if I can.

Yeah, but you like it.

I'm diving in deep on this history book.

I wish I did that.

You can, if I can.

Yeah, but you like it.

I know you get the joke.  You probably got it first time, but not everybody is as sharp as you.  Just like not everybody can do what you and I can do...

... and it grand to love what we do so much it ain't work at all?

... to get all the benefits of working out, without working at all?

... to really work hard on something because we love it?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic

These gloves remind me of how lucky we are.

Not because the are super lightweight and can be worn year round, on and off road.

Not because Jimmy proclaims: Todd, these gloves are like glue on my grips.  I love 'em.

Not because they have tactile thread for snapping quick pics with touch screens.

It's those colors.... if you're into that sort of thing, use this promo code:

 ITAINTWORK

That code wills save ya 15% through the weekend.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic

---

164.2 lbs 
Paddle
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4622214102

APPARENTLY WE HAVE SOMETHING OF A REPUTATION.  People are concerned, even scared, they won't be able to keep up.  Then, they don't show up...

... tonight a brave soul took a chance.

Maybe it was the ride description?  Gravel adventure, friendly pace.

Maybe it was her new bike itching to get dirty?

Maybe the timing was right?

While the rest of us were whining about this and that prepping to start riding, Char just came right out with it...

... I'm worried I won't keep up, y'all are so fast.

I wasn't worried for one second about her chances, because when we say gravel adventure, friendly pace... by golly, we mean it!

For someone whose an accomplished track racer like she is, jumping on a gravel bike is easy.  Riding on a wide gravel road is no big deal.  That's why we took her straight to our local single track; the twisty one, with a few burgeoning rain ruts...

... so she'd have an adventure, be challenged and improve.

We all had a blast, witnessing one of the most glorious sunsets in recent memory.  There's just something about this kind of ride for forging friendships.

It's a mystery to me, this jumping to conclusions.  We may have a reputation for being a heartless bunch, but we sure ain't cruel.  That's the problem with myths I guess...

... or maybe the power of myths.

Whatever it is, I'll continue doing my best to set each ride's expectations. 

If the description is easy, it's probably gonna be too easy and I'll end up being half-wheeled the entire ride... which means you probably won't be invited back. 

If the invitation says adventure, expect to be challenged... and encouraged.

If the there is a speed warning, we ain't waiting so make sure you know you're way home.

It's good to mix up the rides, and the people you ride with.  Join us or join someone closer or start you're own ride.  Just keep your head up to the ride description...

... starting with the ever excellent KASK Helmets

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

My all around favorite is the Protone.  If I had to chose one that would be it.  The Valegro is excellent for MTB... and I really like it for night riding because it's easy to mount a helmet light up there.  The Utopia is most aero.  The Rapido is a good all arounder.

Use promo code:  GoChar

To save 20%.  Code expires on 1/16/21.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

166.2 lbs 
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4617351551

BE CAREFUL, IT'S WET OUT THERE! said the voice in my head.

It's hard to shed the mom's voice... at any age.

But, it wasn't in my head...

... her concerned pronouncement shrieked down from her room... in our home.

Shyte!... next thing I knew I was wondering if my jersey matched my bib and if I needed to get her permission to be home late after playing at the office all day.

... and worst thing is...  she's going to read this between now and the time I get home from tomorrow's ride.  She reads them all.  She's my No. 1 fan for heck's sake.

I'm doomed.

Which only means I'm going to ride even crazier, and be home later.

Just kidding, because...

Our daughter also has a room at our AirBNB... which she will be vacating at approximately 2pm to drive back to school - 2 states away.

... ya know what I'm gonna say...

Be careful... blah, blah, blah.

---

Can't wait to load up my new Wild Child RaceDay bag... they're in production now.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child

It's gonna go perfect with the kit... and I don't even need my mama to help me pick it out.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child

_____

164.8 lbs 
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4609750855

THE 4200' CLIMB WE DID SATURDAY REINFORCED A TRUTH.  The lookout was high, high above.  It was tiny.  White.  Barely distinguishable.  Within 5 minutes, nothing had changed.  After 10 minutes I could see the hotel where we started looming large.  Shortly thereafter, I realized how important it would be to control my mind...

... because things weren't changing.

The hotel still seemed close, and the lookout far away.

I hadn't prepared mentally for this kind of climb at all. 

For 45 minutes we ground out the miles.  Some pitches were 20%, and the average was just under 10%.  We stopped talking.  Andy would ride ahead on the very steepest sections, I'd work my way back to him when the climb backed off.

All the while, the hotel still appeared large and the lookout nothing more than a small white box.

This is what I call clawing the climb.

Staying on top of the pedals, maintaining a sustainable pace, never slowing down. 

Clawing our way up the climb vs cracking and letting the mountain claw our souls.

Suddenly, the perspective changed.  

The hotel now seemed minuscule and the lookout a giant white beacon towering above the pine trees.  The grave grasp of the hotel was released and the magnetic pull of the lookout unleashed.

15 minutes later we stopped at the summit.  The view was clear and beautiful and worth every clawing pedal stroke.

I love that feeling of clawing and clawing until where I started is far, far away and the destination seems inevitable...

... which is why I often wear this shirt.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt

To inspire people to get outside, put their phones away, connect with the physical world.

If you're of the same mindset, use promo code: CLAW

... and save 20%

https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt

---

164.8
Stretch PushUps PullUps
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4604145336

THE BEST RIDERS ARE EASY TO PICK OUT FROM THE PACK.  You just have to know what you're looking for...

... and it's not their fancymatchy kit or unobtanium rig.

Nor is it a question of ectomorph vs endomorph.

Don't let pack position fool ya.

The confident knowitall bark ain't it either.

Chiseled muskulls?  Forget about 'em.

Sunglass arms over helmet straps?  Nope.

No gloves?  Gloves?

Elbows bent, hands relaxed yet secure?  Good guess...

Shaved legs? puuulllease...

It's the spin.

The spin, I tell ya!

The truly great riders have an unmistakable grace in their spin.

Easy.

Smooth.

Effortless.

Unchanged whether a recovery ride or a legripping charge.

They pedal in circles, meaning their is pressure on the pedals all the way around.  They press down.  The bottom of the stroke is like scraping mud off your shoe bottoms.  Pull up.  Forward across the top.  One continuous motion.  No dead spots.

A smooth pedal stroke is an indication of a well-trained athlete.  Someone who's not relying just on natural talents but who has put in the effort the learn proper pedaling technique to maximize their potential.  AKA, the kinda rider we all aspire to become.

Want to know if you have dead spots?

Go to a flat road.  Shift to a very easy gear.  Unclip one pedal.  If there is a point in your pedal stroke where you are pedaling air, that is a dead spot.

One legged drills are a great way to get rid of the dead spots and pedal like a pro.

Do these on your easy days... and remember, Every Day Is RaceDay™

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/hats

Use promo code SPIN

to save 20% on all headwear through Tuesday, Jan 12th.

---

164.6
Walks
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4601756678

SEVEN YEARS AGO MY SON TREVOR DID A SUPER GNARLY RIDE.  For sure, I told myself, I'll do that ride in a couple of weeks.  It took seven years, but it was totally worth it... 

... up Harrison Grade, down Palomar, with a lot of snow riding thrown in for good times.

I'd share the pictures, but I was so excited to get going I left my preciouspet iphone in the van... so, let me paint the picture.

At 8am, on a gorgeous winter's day, we left the Harrah's Casino in Funner, CA. 

The first 5 miles were mainly downhill.  

It was 35ish degrees.

I was donning just my kit and the KOM jacket.  Andy was dressed similarly... because we dress for the ride and not the rollout.

Within 18 minutes we turned right to start the climb, and thaw-out.  Each of us on BMC URS gravel bikes... Andy had just picked his up.

Nate Harrison Grade is an 8.5 mile climb with 4200' of vert... with some pitches close to 20%.  And, it's all on dirt.

Nearing the top I spotted a patch of snow on the embankment.  Then more patches.  Followed not by water, but black ice.  It was exquisite.  Cool, cool air while we climbed at a decent pace through the pine trees to the lookout.

A lot of people have done that climb.  Some famous, some very fast.  Most head on over to the store and then drop down Palomar.

Not us.

Andy had scouted a route that would take us down to a frozen pond then back onto dirt roads that would pop us out at the famous Palomar Observatory.

Now you might be thinking, how are we going to navigate a forgotten road with snow patches up to 50 feet long and 8 inches deep when everybody knows Andy doesn't ride with electronics like phones or bike computers and The Old Diesel left his phone in the van...

... slowly would be the answer.

We didn't care because we were out for an adventure.  We picked our way up the next climb, making a few wrong turns along the way.

Finally we came to a snow patch that was at least 100 yards long, down a pretty steep road. We figured we were probably close to the next major road.  But, we weren't sure.  We'd been riding for 3 hours we were running out of time.

We played it safe and turned around.  

Forty minutes later we were at the top of the south side of Palomar mountain.  

This is a paved road we have gone down many times.  It's famous to the locals, and to anybody who has followed the Tour of California.  There are about 40 or so turns.  Some are high speed sweepers and some of the turns nearly turn back on themselves with a recommended speed of 20 mph.

It's also a rough road.  

Plenty of cracks to rattle your bones and your nerves when your going faster than most cars.

We weren't racing it.

The sensation on the gravel bikes was dramatically different than on road bikes.  The big 40mm tires at low pressure give all kinds of confidence...

... like PRs all the way down confidence.

That surprised the heck out of me... to upload and see I'd PR'd it all the way down the mountain without trying.

Speaking of turns, turns out we were about a 1/2 mile away from the road we were looking for when we turned around at the big snow field.

I can't wait to go back and complete the route and really charge down Palomar.

For sure I'll bring my preciouspet with the Trail Forks App... and of course the KOM Jacket which once again proved the perfect tool for keep me warm on the downhills and tucking neatly away on the climbs.

Use promo code KOMLAYER to get the arm warmers free.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900

Click here: 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900

Use promo code KOMAdventure

PS... watch the neat trick I teach in the video, you'll see it when you click on one of the jackets... you'll thank me later for this one.

---

166.2
Sunset Paddle
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4594406407

IT WAS ONLY AFTER TWO MILES OF HIKING WITH LOCKED UP/CRAMPING LEGS THAT I LEARNED HOW TO RIDE VISIONQUEST.  At the time, I was well beyond miserable.  The 90 degree heat, swarming horseflies and circling vultures were overwhelming...

... I just wanted it to end.

Weeks passed out at the giant parking lot where we did crit races until I finally learned how corner and carry my speed vs sprinting out of the corners to catch back up to the group.  The humiliating final sprint resulted in elation for some and a sagging head as I crossed the line last again.

 ... I just wanted to be in the hunt.

I reckon y'all have stories like that yerselves...

... and ain't it a curious thing how unimaginable results can come out of trying experiences.

Why just the other day I was thinking about the time I lost my ID on a bike ride, which lead to the dandiest wallet ever.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet

What is so awesome about this wallet is how in keeps everything tight... and keeps me from carrying a million cards and such... PLUS!, it will not ever in a million years fall out of your jersey pocket.

Use promo code UNIMAGINABLE

https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet

---

164.6
PullUps and PushUps
8.2 hours
https://www.strava.com/activities/4588040510

IT WAS A SATURDAY LIKE ANY OTHER SATURDAY...

Hey.

Hey.

I so tired, stayed out way too late.

Me too, musta rode 500 miles already this week.

Hey.

What's up?

Ugh... ate way too much over the holidays.

Me too, first word outta Rocky's mouth when he came back was Did you put on weight?

Hey.

Damn its cold.

I hate it went it's cold, takes forever to warm up.

And with that we set 200 PRs and stole 23.5 KOMs.

We would have stole 24, but Jeff Gibbons wasn't with us to pull us along with his new secret weapon.

Who is Jeff Gibbons?

Oh, just the luckiest guy in the world...

... winner of our $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.

I hope Jeff is a regular reader.

Thank you all for participating... here's a promo code for free gloves with your next PR Lotion purchase.

Purchase the PR Lotion and the Gloves and use this code at check out

IJUSTWANNAWIN

You're Awesome!

---

164.8
Stretch/Plank/Hypervolt
7.8 hrs
no ride

I'M ALWAYS IMPRESSED BY RIDERS WHO COME PREPARED WITH PROPER TOOLS FOR A QUICK FIX... which covers most of us.  And we should.  We are  better skilled than 90% of riders out there at doing a quick fix.  We're racers dawgawnit, and ain't got time to waste...

... I'm even more impressed by those who carry toolkits in their heart.

On a winter's day, long ago, shivering as we all bombed Live Oak Canyon, I heard the dreaded pssst pssst pssst of a rather rapid slow leak.  I knew I was in big trouble.

Standing slack-jawed as the group rolled on... panic set in.  It was the bottom of the canyon, I was shaking, couldn't even close my hands.  It was so bad I'd had trouble coming to a stop.

Big Craig pulled up.  

Slow leak, can't get the tire off.  Fingers are done.

No prob.

He stopped, because he carries a set of tools in his heart.

We've all done the same thing, slowed or stopped to help a rider out...

... now seems like a great time to bust out the most important tools:  charity, patience and kindness.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag

We make these in the here in the UNITED State of America.  By hand.  From innertubes... 

... and ship to you for a mere 20 dollah.

Check 'em out:  https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag

---

164.6
Stretch/Plank/Hypervolt
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4579928464

MY CRANK LENGTHS ARE 172.5 AND 175.  Which means the diameter around the circle my feet travel is at most 350mm or just under 14" in 'merican.  Hardly a stretch for my 32" inseam...

While I was not riding today I still managed to move a lot of weight in a short amount of time.

I did a 50 pullups today, it's about an 18" move from extension to head above bar.  All told I pulled up over 8000 lbs.

With the 150 pushups I did, my head moved about 12".  I'm not sure how to calculate the total weight pushed.

The 150 shoulder presses I did was with 15 lbs hand weights, which a total of 4500 lbs.

The growth we experience on and off the bike is mostly achieved through many small movements...

... often with our hands and feet, so keep 'em protected in style.

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

Right now, you can get socks free when you purchase gloves.  Put them both in your shopping cart and go to check out.

Use this promo code:  SMALLMOVEMENTS

Why these gloves and socks... because I said so and because I created them just for you and me.

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

---

165.4
50 pullups 150 pushups 150 shoulder presses
7 hrs
no ride today

---

165.4
50 PullUps 150 PushUps 150 ShoulderPresses
7 hrs
no ride today

LAST WEEK WAS A BIG ONE.  18 hours in the saddle.  It's a lot for a young tike such as me.  It was part of my plan.  Not only did I have the time, but the weather was incredible all week.  Now for the rest of my plan...

... proper recovery.

First off... let me point out that my week starts on Monday, not Sunday.  So, if you happen to get your hands on my calendar you'll notice it's special that way.

The 18 hours started Monday and ended Saturday.  It's the following Monday night now, and I'm not riding tomorrow... not Wednesday.  Maybe Thursday?

Which is quite a few days off for a regular5dayaweekkindaguy.

Mainly, I just thought it would fun to do a giant week and take a good chunk off.  Let the body recover...

... until the mind can't stand it no more.

Changing it up kinda thing.

Speaking of changing it up.. the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway has ended.  We'll announce a winner via this very blog this week... a new contest will launched around the 15th - and I dropped a big hint of what will be involved up above. 

Wondering what we're giving away next time?

We'll it won't be the amazing KOM jacket.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900

Because the contest won't end for a while and you probably need a primo jacket such as this right away.

Use promo code: 9THDAY

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900

---

165
WEIGHTS
8 hrs
no ride today

LATELY I'VE NOTICED A NEW HABIT OR TENDENCY IN MY APPROACH TO THINGS.  If there's a way to make it more uncomfortable I'll do it.  And, it feels great.  For example, I've been rolling out very underdressed lately...

... just a jersey and bibs in the 40s.

Or, walking barefoot across very sharp rocks vs the smooth path.

I wasn't really conscious of this until yesterday.  After an extremely hot bath, akin to a smoking hot sauna, I rose and turned the shower on pure cold...

... it took my breath away, WimHoff style...

... deep, rapid breathing went on for at least 2 minutes.

Truth be told, I think we can get too comfortable.  Overbundled in the cold, overairconditioned in the heat.

It's not good.

Racing can go sideway real fast.  At altitude, the weather can dramatically shift in minutes.  We can travel to an unfamiliar locale and bring all the wrong gear.  And so on...

... the point being we need to train for the bad situations.  We don't want them, but we want to be ready for them... knowing most of our competitors won't be prepared, we can thrive when the situation becomes misearable.

Riding through that cold on 1/1 in just my jersey while my pals were bundled up I wasn't concerned.  I knew in an hour it'd be warmer.  Instead I concentrated on feeling heat in my hands and feet.  It's weird, but with practice I seem to be getting better at it.

What does walking on sharp rocks have to do with bike racing?  Not much, except gaining confidence at handling adversity.  

But, the hothot bath to chilly shower tied it all together...

... I felt damn alive!

It was invigorating to say the least.

After I went to work on my latest creation which should be ready for primetime in a few more days.

In the meantime, if you're inspired at all to start or finish in the cold and dark...

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

Use promo code: LIGHTS

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

---

165
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4562945088

WHAT A BUNCH OF SUCKERS... all those cats who are fired up to start new habits.  I'm like the Grinch watching all the little Who's down in Whoville with their new gym clothes and new gear... maybe even a bike or two.  They're spending this weekend hatching their plans for a fit and healthy 2021...

... go get 'em.

They have no chance.

None.

They gonna fail.

Big.

But not us.

Because we've got a superpwer to keep us on the straight and narrow. And, they know it.  That's the part that drives me nuts... they know our superpower, even ask about.

Hey man, what's new?

Oh, you know working, family stuff and some bike riding.

Are you still racing?

Are you still breathing air?... yes, of course.

I'm only that sassy with my closest friends.  But that's the gist.  

They work out.
We work towards a goal, endlessly fascinated with what's possible.

They've got the Resolution Virus 21...
... we've got the vaccine.

• Find an event, virtual if that fills your tire.  A distant date.
• Make it big as you dare.
• Get ready for it.
• Do it.
• Have fun.
• Learn from it.
• Make it lifestyle.

Let's go do some vaccinating!

If you're lucky enough to have some infected riders, be sure you prescribe the good stuff.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/do-epic-stuff

And we'll include the beanie of your choice... just remember to order the beanie

and use promo code: DOSOMETHINGEPIC

This offer ends Monday night... don't you dare ask me to extend it. 

use promo code: DOSOMETHINGEPIC

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/do-epic-stuff

---

165.2
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4556672526

TODAY WE RODE TODDY'S NAUGHTY NEW YEAR'S RIDE.  Named such because I liked the sound of it and I knew for sure NYE was going to be a massive calorie consumption the likes of which would require a helluva ride to work off.  With any luck, someone would be hacked off that it was too long or too hard or too big.  But that's not what turns me on...

... what turns me on starts off with my standard disclaimer

We leave on time,
bring our own food and gear,
know how to fix your bike and
find your way home.

... I like company on epic rides, I don't like babysitting.

Selfish... maybe? 

I view it as looking out for the good of the group.  Did we stop for Mark when his tire was losing air?.. yes, of course.  One guy having one mishap is not a ride killer... but, stopping can quickly get out of hand.  Ergo the mean and heartless disclaimer.

What turns me on even more is hearing...

I didn't even know half of those trails

... I'm a cruise director at heart.

The most local of locals snacked on delicious newtothem singletrack.  Andy drove up from Oceanside and couldn't believe all the gravelness we have.

How did I accomplish such a feat of novelty?

It's part of one of my most top secretest of training secrets. 

The one nobody believes in. 

The one few are willing to do, ever. 

Yeah, that one. 

Do you do it?

Do you ever get on your bike and poke around the edges of town?  Wander down unknown roads, alleys, trails, etc. 

For some reason, many riders can't fathom the idea of riding nowhere for long periods of time.  

Here's how to do it:  Ride with absolutely no idea of where you're headed.  Be hellbent on not doing the same old ride.

Here's when to do it:  On the easy days, the recovery days and the long slow distance days.

Here's why to do it:  Your body and mind need and crave rides like these.  

Here's what do do when you find some good stuff:  invite your friends to come join ya... have your own disclaimer... and a helluva day.

And after a day like that, I like to wear a beanie like this

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock

If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.

If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black.  You chose.

Quantities are limited.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock

---

166
Stretch n HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4551089377

DIESEL, DO YOU SMOKE AFTER SPRINTING?

I dunno, I never checked.

Yea, that's an ode to the great Austin Powers when asked if he smoked after sex.

But, ya know it's the silly time of year when most of us write down all the things we want to get done in the coming year...

... neglecting to recognize all the wins we had this year.

My wins:

• First grandchild
• 32 years of marital hard times, challenges and beautiful bliss
• Kids are all wonderful adults

• PEDALindustries survived... for a business that is event driven there ain't been much a tailwind this year... so, yeah, proud of that.
• Launched another successful product, the Changing Poncho
• Launched the PEDALposse
• Starting to figure out promotion through contests

• Snagged a podium at my only road race
• Had a great trip to Cactus Cup and learned a lot
• Mission accomplished at Dirty 30

• Mentored Rocky from shipping to design to running production
• Launched a bike shop with Chris

• Had a chance to connect with 10s of 1000s of wonderful people like you via this blog.

Planned for wins next year?

Stay tuned... 

... it's gonna be good.

Maybe even better than this...

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho

In case you do smoke after sprinting

use promo code: 21WINS

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho

---

162.6
Sunset beach walk
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4545917334

I WOKE UP THE OTHER DAY AND HAD A CHOICE TO MAKE: ride with the group where I was sure to be the fastest or ride with the group where everyone was getting faster.  I'm always down for being challenged...

... but that's not why I chose the latter.

Getting faster doesn't necessarily mean every single ride is a veritable beatdown.  

It's a mindset...

... and I really like people who are fascinated with getting faster for the sheer sake of discovering what's possible. 

Yeah, I get thehellbeatoutofme a lot of the time.  The rest of the riding I'm rubbing elbows (we ride that close) with really smart, dedicated athletes.  Sharing all we know about riding faster.

Which group are you going to ride with next year?

Are you going to be the catalyst in your existing group?

Who are you going to invite to join you?

Will you be on a new set of ENVE™ Wheels?  The contest ends tomorrow at midnight PST.  Winner announced next week via blog.

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

After all we can do, it's nice to know we're rolling on the best equipment.

Enter here:  

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

162.6
Stretch HyperVolt
7.75
https://www.strava.com/activities/4540911609

ONE DAY KEVIN AND WERE RIDING ALONG AND HAD THE DUMBEST CONVERSATION.

Why did you head up that guy?

Whadaya mean?

Well, you did the head up thing.  

And...

Why not the head down thing?

I dunno.  Does it matter?

We never resolved the proper head maneuver when acknowledging another rider.  But, it stuck in my own head and really got my OCD going... to the point where I could hardly go for a ride without thinking about that conversation.

It went on for years.

This year I seem to have given it up, opting instead for the low flying peace sign.  I picked that up riding my moto around town.  It's the thing you'd never notice unless you were on a moto.  If you pay attention you'll see moto riders flash the low peace sign as they ride by in opposite directions.  It's a signal we know we're up to something awesome.

Which means if you see me riding along, you might get a peace sign.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace

Still one of my favorite kits.

The socks are pretty cool too.

Use this promo code: PEACEOUT

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace

---

165
Stretch HyperVolt
7.75 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4535529649

THERE IS A NEVER ENDING CHORUS ENCOURAGING US TO LIVE IN THE PRESENT.  But, which present?

The one when I'm doing intervals and time keeps draggin' on?

The one when I'm racing and time flies?

The effort is the same, maybe even harder when racing, but the sense of time is almost exact opposites of each other.

Why is that?

How are you going to approach 2021?  Waiting for things to get better, holding out for normal...

.... the interval approach or the racing approach?

While you're thinking about that...

... think about how nice it is to have that brain of yours nicely covered on and off the bike this time of year.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock

If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.

If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black.  You chose.

Quantities are limited.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock

---

163.6
Stretch HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4531436054

THERE ARE TWO THINGS I KNOW FOR SURE WHEN IT COMES TO BICYCLE RACING.

• Time = Speed
• More Racing = More Energy

We all know the first one by now.  No one said it better than the great Eddie Merckx when prescribed piles of miles.  If you want to go faster ride more.  

The second one goes like this... the more you race the less energy you waste on nerves.  The prep the night before, the drive over, the sign in, the warm up, the waiting on the start line... it all becomes routine, second nature.  Which is why the cooler heads always perform best when it counts.  They have more energy.

Which begs the question... is there any luck involved in bicycle racing?

Not much.

Not like puddle skimming golf shots, tipped football passes, or the like.

We don't depend on luck.  We depend on hard work and properly maintained equipment.

But, then again... it would be darn fine to be lucky enough to win a set of ENVE™ Wheels.

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

After all we can do, it's nice to know we're rolling on the best equipment.

Enter here:  

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

163.6
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4526441206

BILL SHAKESPEARE SAID IT BEST VIA JULIETTE, That which we call a ride by any other name would still be rad.  It's great to take the time to properly name our rides.  To find them later and to exercise our creativity are my top reasons...

... but, sometimes there's a sneakier reason.

The sneaky reason in today's ride name is to plant a seed in my mind and the minds of my friends that on New Year's Day we're gonna do something big.  So I named the ride...

... Recon Toddy's Naught New Year's Ride.

By putting it out there early I'm committing myself to get out and ride on 1/1 as well pre-committing my friends todo the same.

Inserting Recon in the title might create some curiosity as to where I rode.

Changing my name to Toddy sounds playful, and enticing.

Using the adjective Naughty gives me leeway as the inviter to throw in a few unexpected sections.

Wrapping it up with New Year's Ride makes it sound official, commemorative... like the kind of ride you don't want to miss. 

You might be asking yourself should you come?

Yes.

What kind of bike would work??

Gravel best... MTB workwill work fine... only the most talented would ride a road bike.

How long will it be?

Somewhere between 100k and 100mi, around 6000' of vertical... figure 6-7 hours.

Any sag?

Nope, but we will have a 24hr AM/PM on the route about 3 hours in.

What will the pace be like?

We'll be moving right along, and we will be chatting.

What if I have a mechanical?

The bigger the group the less likely we are to stop, bringing a buddy would be a good idea.

Is this a no drop ride?

Aren't they all?... don't get dropped.

Start time?

I'll announce the exact start time later, somewhere between 8 and 9 am.

Any other questions, drop me a note.

It'll be long enough to definitely want some Butt'r, and maybe some PR Lotion.

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

Use promo code TODDYSNAUGHTY

And save 30% on the 2nd item.

---

164.4
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4521964989

From the ride

SANTA DONE BLOWED IT AGAIN... no new bike, not even a pair of bike socks.  Instead, wrapped up addressed not just to me but Surfergirl as well, there was a gift that would leave me feeling like I needed to be in traction tonight...

... my butt hurts, my feet hurt and my knees are a tad tender.

What the heck was Santa thinking?

Tomorrow's gonna be miserable.

Why would he give me and Surfergirl a gift like this? 

• We have to use muscles we never use by moving quickly side to side, rocketing forward and backward... and exploding upward of all things.
• Plus, we'll end up spending a lot more time together and socially with our non-cycling/surfing friends.
• To make it worse, there's always a winner and a loser.  We're just gonna get a lot more competitive.

Who want's a gift like that?

I thought he would reward me for collaborating with him to make gifts for bike people...

... like this new Tour de France inspired bag we collaborated with Horton Collection.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-tour-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2

Each panel of the bag features an authentic and historical picture I picked out for this bag.  Just for you.  It's truly one of a kind. 

Check it out 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-tour-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2

---

164.6
Stretch HyperVolt
6 hrs - I gotta stop staying up late with the kids
https://www.strava.com/activities/4517438824

CHRISTMAS TIME... it always sneaks up on me.  Somehow the jingles and bells don't really touch me until today, the 24th.  Echos of Christmas past arrive.  Tomorrow they will be much stronger.  I'll arise and enjoy the only thing I've ever wanted...

... to be together with family.

Wherever you are, wherever you go I hope you'll be able to connect with those you hold most precious...

... and maybe you'll even wake up to some shiny bikey things.

Or, maybe you're like me and the family has long given up hope trying to find the right shiny bikey thing...

... in that case, you may want to treat yourself to a heckuva bell.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell?variant=31243876008068

They are perfect for those times you're slaying the trail and you want a nice polite way to say I'm here and I'm coming through.

Use promo code:  SLAYBELLS

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell?variant=31243876008068

---

165 (I hope I get some willpower for Christmas)
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs - kids are home
https://www.strava.com/activities/4513469100

IT USED TO BE SOMETHING TO BE A MILLIONAIRE, it's still something to be a million foot climber.  This time of year we get to see all the coolclimbingkids humblebrag about their achievements.  And, well, I don't know about you...

... but I think that is totally cool.

Mainly because I've never done it.  Nor do I think I could.

I'm typically 600,000-700,000'.  About 12,000' per week.  This year I'll wind up close to 750,000'.  15,000' per week.

Which is a lot.

My Florida pals are lucky to get 30,000' in a year.  Did you ever notice that?  Look one of them up... their climbs are overpasses, and the occasional trip where the get some real climbing in.

The Everest in 7 days challenge I did for myself was plenty hard.  I was tuckered out the following week.

1,000,000'... one millllyun feet.. is out of my question, especially when I break it down.  Then all possibility escapes me.

52 weeks would be 20,000' per week.  Which I have completed plenty of times.  But not 52 times in a row!

20,000' per week would be 4000' per ride because I ride about 5 days a week.  Again, done it plenty of times.  But not every single ride.

How do those millionfootaires get it done?

Do they simply have the right stuff?
Genetics
Terrain
Time

Can us mere mortals join their coolclimbingkid club?

One thing that would sure help is a superduper featherweight set of ENVE™ Wheels.

Which you could win, if you enter the contest.

And you could get double the entries on any tshirt you purchase between now and December 31st at mid-night.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

Here are a few of the choices

One thing you may not know about yours Diesel is I started off in the tshirt business and I've probably printed well over 1,000,000 tshirts at this point.

That's not important.

What's important is super soft cotton we use and special inks you can't feel.  Chech 'em out:

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

---

164.6
Diesel Strong
6 hrs - kids are home
no ride

THERE IS A FANCIFUL IDEA THAT WE SHOULD ALL OWN N+1 BIKES, where N is the number of bikes we currently own.  Whether or not that is true, or even healthy, I'm not sure.  But, I am sure I am operating on N-2 at the moment...

... and it's going better than expected.

It started out as N-1 when I sold my very trustworthy road racer, AKA The Marvel.  This aluminum frame, dressed in e-tap and shod with ENVE was a sprinter's dream.  I sold it because a new road racer in the works...

... if only I didn't have to wait for a few key SRAM parts.

Then, I was adjusting the rebound on my MTB and the screw snapped right off in my fingers.  Fox says send it back bub, you'll never fix it on your own...

... if only I didn't have to wait for Fox to receive, repair and return my fork.

Which leaves with the gravel bike for snappy road rides like today, MTB rides like tomorrow, and recovery rides like Friday.

Here's what I've learned:

• It's great for gravel.
• It's just fine on the road if I max the air pressure to 55lbs... but if it's a fast group ride it's feels a heckuvalot like I'm on the front for the entire ride.
• It's great offroad when I drop the pressure to 30lbs... but if it's super rocky gets to be too much after while.

To answer the several thousand dollar question Could I survive on one bike?

Yes, for sure.  I'm getting stronger on the road, because it's harder.  I'm picking cleaner lines when I ride it like a mountain bike because no suspension.  Plus, it's a heckuva gravel bike.

It's definitely a jack of all trades, master of fun.

Speaking of jack of all trades, one thing I love about these gloves is that the work perfectly for road, gravel and MTB.

Just like the socks.

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

And right now you can buy the gloves and get the socks free.

Use promo code:  BuyGlovesGetSocks

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

---

164
Stretch
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4504896704

DAVID GOGGINS, THE ULTRA-RUNNER/NAVY SEAL/ARMY RANGER/AIR FORCE RECON/PULL UP RECORD HOLDER/ALL AROUND BADASS says he stretches for 2 hours every evening to undo all the damage he's put his body through.  I'm not that crazy... 

... but my routine ain't nothing.

I think about him, well his book Can't Hurt Me, a lot... especially when I'm not feeling it, and other times when I'm feeling my own aches.

My basic end of day routine:

1 min plank
1 min weird back thing I learned
1 min side plank
1 min superman
1 min other side plank
5-10 minutes stretching
10 minutes HyperVolt

I'm beginning with the end because... well, it's the end of the day.

Most mornings I ride, then force myself to do:

10 pull ups
30 push ups

I never enjoy those pull ups and push ups.  Never.  But, when I'm done I'm pumped!

Other mornings I jam though 2-4 runs of Diesel Strong:

Jumping Jacks
Jump up the stairs 3 at a time
Max pull ups
Weighted Burpess
Curls
Squats
Deadlifts

These 7 moves I do every Wednesday... and some Mondays and Fridays, if I have time.

It's good to be strong and flexible.

Good for the bike riding...

... and good just in case your better half wants you to load 1000 lbs of blankets into the van... which I did in just under 45 minutes.

Maybe you're like me... I'm always counting how many reps I've done.

Or maybe you're the count down type... 

... like we're counting 10 more days to get entered into the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

Have you entered?

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

163
Diesel Strong
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4502289622

NO MATTER WHAT YOU EAT, HOW MANY HOURS YOUR RIDE, HOW MUCH YOU WEIGH... none of it matters if you're not breathing properly.  Lured in with a blurb like that I purchased Breath - The New Science of a Lost Art on the spot...

... and read it in a day.

Things I've experienced over the years started making sense, and I can't wait to get out and try a new way to train tomorrow.

For example, I've always been fascinated by my ability to quickly drop my heart rate from 50s to 30s just by changing the way I breathe, but never known what it meant or what it could be used for...

... I got a hint with this book.

Or... why do we wheeze after a really hard ride and feel asthmatic?  Or worse Covidish?  Got an answer to that, too...

... and what to do about it.

Fast forward 20 years and my oldest Trevor is taking cycling seriously.  His coach tells him to train breathing only through his nose.  His rapid progress from a 5 to a 2 in one year was astounding. 

Was it the breathing technique?

Who knows... all I can tell you is I tried to breathe like that and failed.

However, I'm reinvigorated to give it a whirl after reading Breath all day today because of statements like this:

Breathing less offered huge benefits.  If athletes kept at it for several weeks, their muscles adapted to more lactate accumulation, which allowed their bodies to pull more energy during heavy states of heavy aerobic stress, and as a result, train harder and longer.

Is the book worth reading?  Definitely.  It's a fascinating journey, well told and easy to understand.  

Too anecdotal?  Maybe, but I didn't care.  And I bet you won't either... there are a lot of easy to incorporate techniques, starting with shutting your mouth.

That said, if you're out on a ride you're eventually gonna need to open that mouth for some nutrition.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger

Looking for a great stocking stuffer?

These taste great and ship free... and will get you a lot of entries in the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger

---

163
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4497817143

I PACKED MY BAGS LAST NIGHT PRE-FLIGHT, ZERO HOUR 8AM.  The idea was to meet up with the fellas and leisurely stroll up the wash 20 miles then do the 9 mile climb up one of my faves.  90% dirt.  2 on gravel bikes, one MTB...

... but is an 80 mile ride with 9000' of vert ever really leisurely?

Two and a half hours in we were at the base of the climb.  TBH, I was fine skipping it... and I doubt it would have taken much convincin' to scrap the plan and grab some donuts.

Funny how we can lean on each other and do crazy shtuff.  Who the heck rides gravel bikes up a 9 mile rugged dirt road?  People like us... you and me.  As long as someone else is willing, it's on.

We were already behind schedule and we weren't about to busts any PRs on the way up.

But, it gave us time to chat.

I've ridden with Charlie for at least 15 years... but today, spinning along, we shared all kinds of new things about our lives.  Just another reason to love on this sport of ours.

Then the conversation got serious.

Hey man, maybe we should turn around early.

No way.  

I think I'm good.

It's right there!  See, we'll be at the top in no time.

We made it.

Tired and salty.

I thought we'd be way, way, way, way, way off the pace.  It wasn't a fast time, but it was respectable.  Surprisingly.  

We had a snack.  I polished off my water.  

To say I love this descent would be an understatement... I get a big smile and shove off.

Rocket Man comes into my head.

I think it's because being in the gravel position...

hands in the drops
flying over water bars
ripping at nearly 30 mph 
over marble-sized rocks on hard pack

... it feels awesome, like I'm flying...

... burning the fuse alone...

... a 9 mile descent even at this speed...

...it's gonna be a long, long time to touchdown.

I almost forgot to tell ya... this is the inspiration for the KOM jacket.  I developed specifically for this climb.  Many times we are pressing hard for a good time or to test fitness.

It's not the kind of place to carry heavy clothes.

But, coming down can be cold as hell.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black

Fold it into it's own pocket and slide into your jersey pocket.

We use a very lightweight membrane fabric.

Wind stopping and water resistance are remarkable.

Plus, the fabric is stretchy so we cut the jacket to be aero... modern rocket men don't need parachutes.

Check it out:  https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black

Side note... I find myself using a vest and arm warmers less and less.  The jacket folds up smaller, and is just as warm.

---

163
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4493328035

THE ONLY I PERSON I EVER MET THAT SWEARS HE KNOWS HOW TO BRAKE IS SUPERDAVE.  If you don't know SuperDave he used to be a hitter at FELT until he got called up to the big leagues at Specialized... not that that is any indicator of his braking ability.  But, if you ever see his sizable mucsulus quadriceps or his blistering breakaway you might say...

... Do tell, how to brake.

For me, it came up when he was setting up 3T America a couple of years ago.  We were both bragging about how awesome we are while ignoring each other when he caught my ear.

You can borrow this bike I've been riding, but the front brake pads are really worn.

Won't be a problem.

I didn't think it would, you look like a back brake first kinda guy.

Aside from that hurting, and his skill estimating ability being slightly off, he had a helluva point.

Most riders, probs you newguygalpersonhuman, are riding around with smoked rear brake pads and pristine fronts.

Why?

Because most riders were raised by parents screaming... 

Don't touch the front brake you'll kill yourself!

... consequently, most riders have that nagging bit of self-doubt banging around their helmets.  Yes, it sucks. But, it's real.  

--> unrequested parenting advice:  our minds can't see negatives.  Tell your kids and loved ones what you want them to do, they're going to visualize and act on whatever you say.  Tell a kid Don't run into the street and what do they do?  I could/should write a book on that. <--

... back to making good braking habits.

Try this at home, at your own peril... this is only one Old Diesel's opinion:

1. Apply your front brake liberally, it is 70% more powerful than the rear - or something like that.  You can really lay on it hard when traveling in a straight line.
2. In turns, I'm pretty even on the brakes... unless I want to slide the rear for quicker directional change, then that rear is locked up.
3. Make it a goal to wear the front and rear pads out equally.

That could be free advice worth more than you paid...

... speaking of paying.

You're not still using one of these are you?

When you could be using one of these...

https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet

In the off chance you're looking for an extremely svelte wallet to hold a few cards and a couple of Benjamins... a wallet that will never, ever in a million years fall out of your jersey pocket...

... you can have this favorite o' mine - well a brand new one - for a mere 20 bones.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet

---

163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep too excited to get back to Santa's workshop
https://www.strava.com/activities/4487786229

SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY, LOANED YOU A BIKE.  Different from the bike you might have received as a child, this was an adult bike.  You rode it, just like I did, and fell in love again...

... because someone paid it forward.

I've been paying/riding it on down the roads and trails ever since my roommate Talley loaned him his "10 speed".  He brought one back to school one weekend... within a week I had a ride of my own.  Best senior year ever.

Sound familiar?
Do you remember who gave you the nudge?
Still riding together?

My latest convert/victim is my grandson's grandfather.

Hey Todd, what's it like riding a gravel bike?

I've got one you can borrow.  I'll bring it over and we can ride around.

Can't get much more innocent than that, can ya?  A simple Check it out is so effective.

Which one should I get?

The answer is always the same... 

The best you one you can swing and still sleep at night... even though you won't sleep the first few nights because you'll be so excited to ride the next day.

He chose this one:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three

But, the best part is when he picked it up today he dropped his brother's old bike to be serviced and made ridable.

We might have a real zealot in our midst... and I'm totally down for that.

How many have you encouraged to check it out this year?  I'm guessing a lot.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three

... I might even have a promo code for ya.  Hit me up.

---

163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4483765938

LOOKING BACKWARDS WHILE RIDING A BIKE IS ALWAYS TRICKY.  A little swerve, a missed sharp object... so many chances for things to go wrong.  Looking forward is so much more fun, safe and profitable...

... which is what I like to do this time of year, start planning out next year.

Figure the big family events.

Scan the cycling calendars

• USACycling for Nationals
• Epic Rides 
• Leadville 
• SoCal Cycling
• NCNCA
• AZCyclng
• Cycling Utah
• SoCal Endurance
• TeamBigBear
• LoToJa
• Cascade Cycling Classic
• ... basically everything within a day's drive.

Then the major work projects.

That's the big stuff and it goes on the calendar in that order:  Family, Races/Adventures, Work.

There's monthly and weekly and daily planning.  But, getting the big stuff right matters more.  For me.

Speaking of getting stuff right, wouldn't winning the ENVE™ Wheels be awesome?

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

Buy any t-shirt between now and 12/31 and you'll be automatically entered in the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway... and the t-shirt purchase will get you double the entries you'd normally get.

Best of luck!

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

---

164
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4481657645

IT'S HALFWAY THROUGH DECEMBER, just in time to send out this public service announcement.  December heroes always morph into race season zeroes.  Lest you think I'm calling you out...

... I'm not.

Well, I might be if you are:

• Exhausted after your ride
• Wincing as you go up or down stairs
• Loathing your next bike sesh
• Setting KOMs on routes already ridden by a thousand others
• etc...

... it's a long list, and glancing over it I might be a bit guilty myself.

Which is why I will once again renew my dues with Riders For A Sensible Pace.  This completely fake group, should exist.  There should be an intervention for dummies like me.

Let me give you an example of such idiocy...

... a public service announcement went out to our cozy little social ride last night that said something like...

Let's merge the A and B rides so we can all ride slow together until March.

I didn't think it would go well, but hoped it would.

As one of the tribe elders, I arrived early and proceeded to pontificate on the virtues of riding together.

There was a long, stoic silence...

... followed by hooting and hollering, Yeah... right.  We don't trust you guys!

Off they went.

Leaving me, on my gravel bike, to fend for myself amongst the hungry A lions.

We're gonna go easy right fellas?... set a good example so the B's believe our earnestness and solidarity in commitment to winter base miles?

An Of Course Old Diesel carol, warmed my Christmas heart.  I would survive and have many more social paced rides this winter.  Today would be a new beginning, and new era for the Tuesday Morning World Champions.

Alas, there are no gifts in cycling... especially within 12 days of Christmas. 

None at all.

It was blistering from the get go, and I was rudely ejected on the second to last climb... aka The Wall.

On a related note, Bob P stopped by today and introduced himself.

I'm Bob, we met on Creek To Peak a few years ago.  I've been reading your blog ever since.

That's awesome.  Thanks man.

Sure... I'm here to get my wife a Christmas present.

Lucky lady.

Not for her, for her to give to me.

Which reminded me I could give myself a gift, too... Ya know Diesel, you could just roll over at 5am next week and do your own easy ride a little later...

... but we all know I need my weekly lashings, offseason or not.

Which reminds to remind you that socks and gloves make great stocking stuffers.

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

... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.

The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...

use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones for the gloves and the socks.

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

While supplies last.

---

163.6
Stretch and HyperVold
7 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4475883860

THE P.A. ASSIGNED FOR MY PHYSICAL WAS A LITTLE KOOKY.  It wasn't that he was getting on in years or that his thick Boston accent was challenging to decipher. It was the question he posed about my heart...

Wow... whadaya got there... one a them metric hearts, eh?

What?

Yeah, sounds like ya got one a them metric hearts.

What are you talking about?

You know, metric.  Most people come in here beating 60, 70, 80 times a minute. You.  In the forties.  Metric.

How is that metric?

Metric, you know 100 miles equals 60 of them metric thingies.  Kill-oh-meters.  Metric!

Yeah, sure, I have a metric heart.

Poor old feller, I didn't have the metric heart to set him straight on the kilometers vs miles.

But, I do have the heart to remind you to ride... even if you have to ride in the dark like I did tonight.  

Just be lit up.  Like a Christmas tree.

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

I've been running these lights this fall. Really like 'em.  1000 lumens on the front, and the rear has a pattern to help cars judge distance.

Use promo code:  METRICHEART

It'll save ya big buck$ on any of our lights.

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

---

164.6
PushUps/PullUps/Shoulders
8 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4473498383

TECH GENIUS AND GAZILLIONAIRE ELON MUSK ANNOUNCES HUMAN POWERED BICYCLE PROJECT.  Musk, who's Tesla Inc. has embarrassed the automobile industry by becoming more valuable than all other makers combined, has decided to turn his all seeing eyes to the future of humanity.

Stating he is bored by his Boring Company which is boring tunnels to create the Hyperloops meant to revolutionize earthbound travel, he claims he has a fresh approach to human powered travel.

Asked if this new vision has anything to do with his SpaceX company's colonization of Mars, the legendary visionary only gave a hint of what will surely decimate another industry by bringing humanity forward in a single pedal stroke.

In an exclusive interview, our real life Tony Stark came clean.

We are creating a bicycle that will be powered solely by humans.  No motor.

Really?

Yes, the idea is to have a tool that engages all the senses, delivers immense pleasure, can be enjoyed alone or with a group.  There will only be an outside version, to enjoy nature's beauty.  The results in testing are truly astounding.

How so?

You see by removing the motors and making the activity only accessible out of doors we have data showing massive increases in mental, social and physical health.

This sounds exciting.

Oh, it's changed my life. It will change yours, and everybody you know.

Do you have a name for this new business.

Absolutely.  LegGevity

There you have it folks. Stay tuned. A better world awaits us all, a human powered outdoor experience...

... coming to a planet near you.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/leggevity

If you know Elon, let him know we've got a dealio for him.

Use promo code:  PRsRULE

When you purchase a bottle of PR Lotion and a PRs rule tshirt, the tshirt will be free.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/leggevity

---

165.6
HyperVolt and Stretch
8 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4468950643
 

I WROTE THIS PITHY POST ONCE ABOUT DRESSING FOR THE RIDE, NOT THE ROLLOUT.  The idea is we should dress appropriately for once things are heating up on the ride.  Days like today, when I really take it to heart and roll out in the low 40s with high humidity...

... everybody's in parkas, I'm in jersey and bibs.  

Commando in pajamas ain't exactly warm.

I was cold. But, I didn't care.

All I could think of was riding North and finding this singletrack that snakes up and through the neighborhoods to the top of Newport Coast.  I'd ridden it once a couple of years back.  Even though it would take an hour to get there, the idea of finding that trail and climbing it warmed my heart.

Eventually it did warm up and I was perfectly dressed for scouting out a new, awesome gravel route.  I even managed to include my favorite general store... possibly the last one still operating in the county.

There's a lot of energy behind the gravel bike movement. I'm not sure where it's headed... which is exactly what makes gravel riding so run.  I'm never sure where I'm going to go, but it always turns out to be a lot of fun.

Because it wasn't fffffffffreezing, I was just in superlight gloves and race socks. For that reason, I present thee with a special offer.

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

... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.

The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...

use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones for the gloves and the socks.

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

While supplies last

---

162.6
HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4464328944

I HAVE A OPTIONS TOMORROW... The Thug Ride, The Dirty Ol' Bastard.  If it's true you are what you ride... well, I might skip those... and it is true, but it's also true attacks and climbs may break my mind but names will never hurt me...

... which ride to do this fine winter's day?

One of the more amusing conversations I have with riders who aren't quite sure of the thugness or dirty'olness on rides goes like this...

Yeah, I want to do that ride as soon as I'm in shape in the Spring.

OK, but... this is the slowest time of year for that ride, it only gets faster in the Spring.

Yeah, I'll be ready.

... no chance in helk, I think to myself.  No chance at all.

Winter is the time to latch onto the fast guys while they're going slow.  It's the only chance most of us have.  Come Spring, those DirtyOl's will be Thugging every pedal stroke of every ride.

Now is the time to latch and do what they do... and if you're lucky ride what they ride.

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

163.4
Stretch/Plank/HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
No ride... Santa be bizzy.

THERE WAS NO WAY I WAS RISKIN' NOT GETTING MY DAILY DOSE OF MEDICINAL PEDALING by waiting until late afternoon.  Most of the time the opportunity vanishes when I take the wait and see approach, then I'm suffering some serious withdrawals.

Some days are like that.

A lof 'em, lately.

My strategy comes from my favorite cycling genius...

"If A is a success in life, then A equals X plus Y plus Z. Work is X; Y is play; and Z is keeping your mouth shut."

... Albert Einstein.

It worked for AL, seems to be working for me... is it working for you?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt

Use promo code: GENIUS

To save 20%

https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt

---

163.6
Stretch/Plank/HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4455017395

IT'S A DRAG TO GO DOWN, CRASH.  We pop up like nothing happened, whenever possible.  Ride like all is cool.  Then we get home,  dried blood, bruised, banged up...

... and assess the damage.

With luck, only flesh wounds that will heal quickly.

With more luck, the bike is okay.

But, there's another category that can be damaged and dernright embarassing. I was reminded of it yesterday as my pal's ripped up shoulder flapped in the wind.

I'm sure it's a favorite kit.  He wears it often.

Probably because there are no more to be purchased.

If only he'd had us make it... then he could exercise our Crash Replacement Policy.

Wouldn't that be nice?... fresh new kit, same favorite design.

How's it work?... send us a pic, we'll get it made at 50% savings.

I know, we really should make it harder.  At a minimum more shameful... like require a pic of the incident to be posted all over the socials.

But why, when we could just get it made and delivered about as fast as the scabs are healed?

Personally, if I purchased a jersey this beautiful and shredded it racing down a mountain I'd love to get it replaced.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1?variant=36819856228513

It's hard to appreciate how awesome this blue is on a screen vs seeing it in person.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1?variant=36819856228513

PEDALposse members save 25% on this. 

---

164.2
PushUps and PullUps
7.5 hrs sleep
No ride today - Santa and Elves very busy.

FEW PEOPLE HAVE ASSEMBLED THEIR OWN BICYCLE, far fewer have ever assembled their own bicycle company.  I'm lucky enough to know one of these individuals... 

... here's what I've learned.

First off, we met around '92.  It was a chilly morning, on a local single track that would soon become home to Olympic Champions and Pro Tour racers... along with masses of enthusiasts.  Whiting Ranch.

Our bikes were heavy, and our suspension mostly awful.

Marv had scoped out a tiny company that was making lightweight full suspension bicycles that were works of art.  Soon, he and Roger and I all had these anodized aluminum wonders.

Next thing I know, Marv sells his tech biz and buys a chunk of Intense Cycles.

The company was unique.

And, tiny.

I think I had frame number 8 or 9... and there may have been a 100 produced, ever, at that time.

Seemingly overnight the company is a well-known brand.

That's not what I learned.  Anybody could see that from afar.

Over the years, I was able to see how he and his partners worked very hard every day patiently, diligently executing a great idea.  

A great idea is worthless without great execution.  But, if you do it right you can build something beautiful and one day sell it.  Which he did.

Fast forward a little more and he's retired.  Loving his BMC road bike and wanting a gravel bike. 

He reads my blog on Strava. 

Sees my BMC gravel bike. 

Gives me a call.  

New bike arrives in a box.

I shouldn't have been surprised, but I was.

We'll get it built tomorrow.

No need.  I'll pick it up.

Of course he's going to put it together himself... some riders like to know exactly how all the pieces fit together...

... in everything they do.

I dig that.

Just like I dig riding gravel... haven't raced gravel yet, but it's kinda lookin' like that might be one of the only options next year.

So, if you thinking that could be on your calendar... give us a shout.  Don't worry, we'll put it together for ya.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles

Funny thing... on his way out he asks...

Is this going to get me entries into the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway?

Yep, sure is.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles

---

164.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4446682448

I'M NOT EVEN SURE WHEN I STARTED NAMING MY BICYCLES.  I've always done it.  This morning, after one ride on a beautiful new BMC gravel slayer, I had the perfect name...

... names make a difference, you know.

Choose carefully.

Pick the right name and your ride can deliver mythical performance, exception inspiration and ward off all sorts of evil.  

Often, I'll let the color have a good say in the matter.  

This bike is purple.  Purple frame.  Purple ENVE™ stickers.

Not just any purple, but a truly righteous shade of glossy purpleness.

Of course, the proper first ride for any bike will include the kind of riding the bike is designed for.  In this case it was...

Asphalt
A staircase.
A gravel road.
And some single track.

In that order, with lots of speed and magical handling.

Yep, this bike shall be known on the records of Strava as... Showtime... after the great Magic Johnson led Lakers in their purple and gold.

Did I mention it has ENVE™ Wheels?  Did I mention how fast they roll?  How snappy they accelerate?  How tacky the tires feel with that wide rim?

Have I mentioned you could win a set of ENVE™s?

Check it out:  

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

164.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4442252464

UNDER PRESSURE TO DELIVER MORE S-WORKS FRAMES TO IT'S CUSTOMERS, the Big S has released a $4000 unicycle.  Known as the Tar, the first available model is the S-Works level option.

Due to the unique nature of 1-wheel bikes vs 2-wheelers, they will essentially be doubling their production capacity.

Marketers at the company claim it's a triple win.

• Quicker deliver to customers
• Significant savings
• Better prep for the circus known as the Pro Tour.

That said this is not stripped down S-Works either:

• $1500 S-Works Tar frame
• $1100 Roval Alpinist Wheel
• $450 Power MIrror Saddle
• $400 S-Works Venge Seatpost
• $400 S-Works MTB Cranks
• $180 Boomslang Platform Pedals
• $50 Pathfinder Pro Tire

The company also claims myriad benefits to one-wheel training:

• Better balance
• Increased core strength
• Smoother pedal stroke

The icing on the cake, however, is safety.

Due to the upright unicycle position and it's rarely seen in the wild nature, drivers normally riveted to their phones and coffee are keenly aware of these beautiful machines and talented riders.

2020... what a year for cycling!

For those of you who continue riding two-wheelers, there's still time to enter the ENVE™ Wheel Give Away

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

164.6 
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4440002457

IF YOU EVER STOP BY TO SAY HI - AND I HOPE YOU DO - YOU WILL SEE A STRING OF 2ND PLACE TROPHIES.  I have earned an unusual amount, and I keep them front and center as a reminder...

... there is always somebody better, I can always work harder.

Today's 2nd place, unlike the others, was a near disaster.

So many lessons.

First off... I set my sites on the wrong goal.  Again.  This time it was to be close to my San Diego friends who always whack me when I race down there.  When I checked the start list and saw Stenk, TimZ, JohnnyO, JeffW, LarryP were also racing my chances of eating dust increased immensely.

That said... we'd just come off getting whacked at the Cactus Cup where the course is a series of neverending ups and downs.  Matt set us up a local route that was nothing but that.  Constant power climbs and quick drops.  In other words, we trained about as best as one could for today's course. 

Ideally, really.

Concurrently... I've been leaving late for to meet the posse recently requiring me to go all out the moment I leave the house.  Which is exactly what Coach Brian has been asking me to work on.  

No more Old Diesel TB... time to start hard and fast.

Let me just interject here, that Coach Brian did his first mountain bike race today and the first words out of his mouth to his Padawans was...

I had no idea how violent the start would be, we need you guys a lot fresher for these racers.

The lesson here is this... a good coaching relationship is two-way.  He knew I needed to work on my starts, I knew to be fresh.  Per Strava my form was a whopping +24 today.

Why was today a near 2nd Place disaster?

Well, yours Diesely wasn't paying attention.

I've often said the closer we get to the finish line the dumber we get.  Today was no exception.

I knew the laps were 6 miles long.  The race is called the Dirty30.  5 laps right?  Duh...

... so there I am, in second place on the 4th lap...

TimZ had gapped me on the first lap by wisely choosing the easy to ride climb while I chose the hideous wall option.  Took me a lap to recover from that.  He was gone.

... anyway, I'm in the zone, figuring I've got another lap and half to go.  It's heating up and my Camelbak is nearly empty I'm picking the cleanest lines I can, conserving as much as I can.  

I slide around a corner and TimZ has a flat.

Ah, crud... sorry Tim!

Go, you got this!

I got this... well, probably if I race wisely I can keep this pace up for another 45 minutes.  

How fun would that be?!

I catch and pass some of my pals.  Yep, feeling great.  Riding within myself.  Thinking, Holy cow!  This could work!  Letting myself get a little giddy.

The last half mile of said lap 4 this jackball keeps battling me.  I'm thinking Bro, we have another lap.  I've already put minutes on you, since you were in the first wave.  

We roll through to do lap 5 and the great Victor Sheldon, the promoter on the mic, says Todd Brown, winner of the 55+ division!.  Hellyeah I say to myself.

Matt rolls up... Nice job on the V, but I still beat you by 4 min.  Folks, that is friendship.  The best kind.

The posse is congradulatory.  Slapping my back and all.

Sten rolls up, I'm a believer!  You took off so fast I couldn't ever see you.  Finished less than a minute behind you.  Second place is great!

Second place, no way.  Tim flatted.  No one else in front.

Well... scoring says some guy named David Juarez beat you.

Tinker!  That stinker!

For the record - have I said that yet? - David Tinker Juarez is a former Olympian who usually races pro... at 58 years old.  Beating a lot of the Pro field is normal for him, still.

When he lined up and took off with them we all figured he's doing his thing... thankfully.  We took off 2 minutes later.

Could I have beat him...

.... hahahahahhahaha, no chance in 'ell.  He put 13 minutes on me.

Back to my point, I'm never dissatisfied with 2nd place as long as I know there was nothing left in the tank and I raced to the best of my ability. 

However, I would have been extremely ticked if the pack of gray wolves behind me had caught and passed me at the end of lap 4 while I was secretly setting them up for an all out onslaught on lap 5.

Lastly, so far I'm the only actual grandpappy on that podium... and I'm most happy about that.

2 More Critical Race Notes: 

• JimmyC came up to me, probably when Victor was explaining how many laps we were going race and said  I was trying to decide Camelbak or bottles last night and you came to me in a vision... Camelbak, totally dorky but infinitely better on a course as relentless and technical as this.
• 3 things helped me go faster than last Dirty30: first, I'm about 5 lbs lighter than last year; second,  via a lot of saddle time I'm one with my new BMC 4 Stroke and is legit much faster than any XC bike I've ridden before; third, the HyperVolt is a recovery game changer.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dirty30

Don't you deserve this for Christmas?  Your competitors certainly don't :D

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dirty30

THE STORY OF THE GREAT RONNIE COLEMAN IS ON NETFLIX.  I'm struck by the persistence, humility, and greatness of this man and athlete.  You might be too...

... it reminded of what makes binge watching great (it's a 90 min documentary).

It's the arc of our own story that takes us from hacks and weekenders to consistently improving beasts.

That's why we binge watch, to find out what's going to happen to our heroes and villains.

Perched on my saddle, it appears to me that the dabblers - hacks is too harsh - are the riders who never really get better.  The ones who get excited, buy a bike, ride it a few times and turn into place to dry out wet clothes.

That's not us.

We register for events and we race.

The more official and epic the race, the more dramatic and awesome our story.  Wherever your racing is on the scale...

Beating Your PR <-- Racing to the City Limits sign --> Winning Nationals

It's our own heroes journey and battling of real and made up villains that keeps us going, and coming back for more.  The endless fasciation with improving our performance.

Non-racers mostly miss out on all that drama.  Which I contest is why they lose interest.  There is no story arc for them.

For example, we'll sign up for an event that is 6 months out. 

We start paying more attention to what we are eating, how far we are riding, how fast we are going, getting a bike fit... all things we can do to increase efficiencies.  We measure them.  See what works, what doesn't.  Test ourselves against friends or less important races, etc.

That is our story arc.

Watch Ronnie's story and you'll get the sweet flavor of this post.

Kinda like the sweet flavor of Honey Stinger Waffles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger

I just love these... perfect for long rides when you want something solid that goes down deliciuosly.

These also make great stocking stuffers, plus get you entered into the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger

---

161.8 
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4429179393 
(finally got that KOM - now that's drama)

IT'S BUSY HERE AT THE SHOP.  It makes me happy.  With a local race on Saturday and us being a racy bunch the bikes are flowing in and out.  These are the people that take no chances.  They've busted their buns to get fit and they've learned from sweaty experience to make sure their machines...

... are as finely tuned as they are.

But, ya know what's weird?

The racy peeps who are finely tuned on poorly tuned machines.  

I see them every race.  I've been one.

RaceDay morning they'll be all kitted up, ready to rip.  Drivetrain will be filthy, shifting poorly.  Tires lacking tread. 

Or worse.

They will have put on new parts the day before and woken up to flat tires because the sealant didn't seal.  Chain skipping because new chains skipping on old, worn cassettes. 

It's a long list.  

We all recognize it.

With some luck things will go well and they'll finish with big smiles.

But, who wants to risk that?  Who wants to waste the emotional energy involved with either the mishaps or just having that Hope this don't break nagging feeling?

One thing that's always fun is to sport a new kit on RaceDay.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/grayghost

Like a gray over gray... haunting your prey... 

Did I see a ghost?  Is that the rider I'm chasing?  Do I even have a chance?

The light is picking up the color a little oddly in the these pics.  I'll post some more in the daylight soon.

In the meantime, here's the dealio...

Buy the kit, get the gloves and socks free.

Promo code is GRAYGHOST

It will actually apply a discount across all 4 items equalling $40 - price of gloves and socks.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/grayghost

---

161.8 
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4425596286

Found this inside my tire while prepping... nice little staple clean through and Stan's all dried out.

Thought my brake was rubbing... nope.  Checked the rotor... nope.  Wheel was spinning great but strange sound... turned out to be dust under dust cap... the kinda sound that can drive ya crazy when you're racing.