TOWARDS THE END OF MY RIDE SATURDAY, I came down an extremely steep trail... it's just at the edge of being a controlled skid - that kinda steep... and turned sharply to cross through the motorcycle barrier.  At the same time, another rider came from an alternate trail and rather than dismounting rode right through the open gate.

There, my friends, is a perfect example of enemy number two.

Habits.

I've approached that barrier hundreds of time, and the gate is never open.  Naturally, I went with what I've burned into my brain as the only way out... and it was completely the wrong thing to do when I could have easily stayed on my bike.

And the thing about habits is their effect is slow moving...

... towards greatness or damn that was dumb.

Chris, The Wrench, has a wonderful habit.  Before he can start on the next bike, he has to put all his tools away.  Guess what?... he never wonders where his tools are.

I have a habit of getting everything ready the night before my morning ride:  clothes out, glasses cleaned, batteries charged, bottles made, etc.

Some riders have the habit of looking at all the dangers a particular route may encompass.  My experience with these types of riders is they seem to will disaster into their lives.

Other riders have a habit of eating huge meals and late o'clock.  Result:  disrupted sleep and extra ballast.

The thing about habits is they become automatic. And we don't even realize how they've molded us... but sometimes it's towards really good outcomes.

Of course, one of our greatest habits is riding our bikes.  If you've got a friend that needs a reminder about this habit...

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

Or maybe it's no one in particular, but you just like preaching this wonderful message of getting out and riding.

Whatever it is, this is a superduper soft shirt... made for athletes like us.

Use promo code: RIDEYOURBIKE

The code works on all the tshirts... but this one is the top seller.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

---

160.2 lbs
PushUPsPullUps
7.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4185622613

NOT EVERYBODY KNOWS THIS, or remembers to do it... or has the luxury of following this restful recipe.  It's a good practice for the day before a race.

If you're standing, sit.
If you're sitting, lie.
If you're lying, put your feed up.
If you're feet are up, sleep.

Most of the time we are hustling to take care of business or chores or family, and hoping all goes according to plan and we can cut out for a race in the morning.  If we're lucky, we'll get to bed early.

Tuck that little missive away until your next big race.

Better yet, try it out before your next big ride.

It's harder than you think, and better than you think.

Promise.

I also promise having a RaceDay Bag™ will make your day that much more restful.

This would be a great place to insert what a wonderful gift the bag makes, but then I remembered racer Ryan's purchase this week...

I need another bag.

You do?

Yep, I want one for MTB and one for Road.  I'm going to have them each loaded and ready to go.

It still makes a wonderful gift, and let's be honest, nobody appreciates a good bag more than us.

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

You know, we never to promo codes for the bags.  But if you search really hard there's one out there.

I'm going to hide it right here in this lengthy paragraph.  Normally, I'd put it in bold.  But, that would make it too easy.  The code, if you were to search for it, is SAVE10.  It's an old code.  It works today.  But, I think it's time to retire it.  Use it while it works.

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

---

161.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
8.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4183616323

THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUPERSTITION AND PREPARATION.  Today I did one of my pre-race rituals, it's the kind of thing I can't convince anybody to do with me...

... so it makes me question is it superstition or preparation?

What I do is go out and ride a course as similar as possible to the upcoming race and only work on my head.

In this case, the upcoming race is the Cactus Cup.  An MTB race.  In the desert.  With a lot of turns.  Carrying speed is going to be critical.

So, I went and rode some of the twistiest trails around.  

Didn't pound the climbs too much, just rode 'em at tempo.  But those downhills were all about being relaxed and going fast.

Results:  I'm getting super confident on the new MTB and snagged a number of PRs on challenging descents I've hit many times.

This is headwork, giving myself sensations of feeling fast.

I'll do that all week.  Not ride hard per se.  Just doing things that are confidence building...

... and all of it will be on my race bike...

... to further cement the good feelings and be hyper aware of any mechanical issues that need to be take care of.

I know other racer will ride hard right up to the end.  Others will take a bunch of time off.

Are we all preparing?
All superstitious?

Probably a little of both.

And I'm cool with that, because in the end it's just a bike race... and more than half the fun is figuring out what works.

One thing that works for sure is the KASK Protone helmet.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets/products/kask-protone?variant=33302071869572 

I really like this helmet.  It's light.  Fits great.  Has good ventilation.

And since it's Italian and the Giro is going on as I write this... well, there's a special promo code to save 20%.

The code is SUPERSTITIOUS.

It can be used on any helmet.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

---

160.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4177477050

I STOPPED BY TO SEE MY PAL CHAD TODAY.  At his place of biz.  It'd been too long.  We met through the bikeridingthing... way before PEDALindustries.  We started making his company uniforms.  Which we still do.

But, that's not important.

Nor was delivering a new supersweet kit design for this weekend's race.

What was important, was what happened when we got to his office and closed the door.

Nothing.

Nothing but bike and racing talk.

I think about all the companies that sponsor teams, at all levels... and I reckon few people have any clue as to why they do it.

Is it to get a big return on their advertisement investment?

Absolutely not... if that were the case the sponsors would stick around forever.  Trust me, I know a thing or three about advertising.

They do it because they love the sport and it's fun. 

Amid all the chaos and stress of running any large business, sponsoring any kind of cycling team can bring some needed levity into the work place.  Can be part of a company health initiative.  Can be a way for the work crew to bond after hours.

But, it ain't for the money.

And what do most sponsors ask for... usually just that the racers are good peeps.

I've worked with a lot of sponsors of teams.  And none of them have ever said this, but I see it. 

I see their enthusiasm for the racers, for the promoters, for the friends and families who come and watch.  

I see the joy they have designing their kits for their teams to wear.

This is why they do it.

For the love of our sport...

... so, next time ya get a new kit send 'em some pics of you having fun riding.  I know they'll love it.

I know I do.

Ya know what else I know?... I know our Speed jersey is super light. People come in and choose their size always comment...

... It's so lite.

Well, it has to be.  It's a Speed jersey, not a parachute.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/jerseys

They come in a variety of colors, and we have matching socks for most of the designs.

Add a jersey and socks to your order and use promo code: SPONSORS

to get free socks.

---

161.2 lbs
Rest
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072

LIKE IT OR NOT, WE'VE ALL GOT ENEMIES.  And, that's okay.  Because enemies can bring out the best in us.  Therefore, I present the first in a long list of Racer Enemies and the potential for greatness each holds.

First up, the first up... it's a gift, really.

We get it when we're born, and it can be a real hinderance to going fast.  However, once we get control of this enemy everything in life improves.

You guessed it, right?... our very own body.

Neglected, this wonderful treasure becomes sluggish at best.

No amount of unobtanium parts of a bike can make up for the neglected goods inside our birthday suits.

On that note, I put on weight with each one of my wife's pregnancies.  Yep, a full 33 lbs heavier than I am today.

Little by little I carved it off.

Along the way, I learned what my body craves for maximum health.  It doesn't just show on the bike.  It's off the bike as well.

Overall energy high
All health indicators high
Mental clarity better
Mood swings minimized
and so on.

The point is to put in place a system for optimal health and patiently stick with it.  The result, and it takes time!, we get a lot faster on the bikes and a lot better in every other endeavor.

I've been thinking about this because lately my friends have been casually slipping their weight into our conversations.  You know, real slylike...

Dude, I'm down 12 lbs!

... subtle right?

They're stoked.  And they should be.  It feels really, really, really good to be light.

Speaking of kids... the best thing my son every told me when we trying to have better diets was this...

... we're not dieting, we're athletes...

Try that one on the next person that chides your food choices...

... I'm not dieting, I'm an athlete.

It works surprising wonders.  Because we are athletes... we are designed to run long distances for long periods of time.  We are hunters by nature.

When racing, like I will be next week, there are only 3 things I put into my body.  

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

GQ6 hydration for sure. 

Because the course is going to be fast with constant turns and short power climbs through the desert, I'll probably only be able to drink.

Which means I'll go with 3 scoops/bottle.

I might not even go with bottles.  It's going to be that fast.  I might go with the Camelbak.  It's just a lot easier to grab that hose and suck in some good stuff and let the hose fall from my mouth. 

I reckon I'll thrown 1 Honeystinger in my pocket just in case I get that empty hungry feeling... but, I doubt that's going to happen.

It's unlikely I'll need the SaltStick.  It's only 40 miles and should be over in 2.5 hrs.

Since it's always good to be prepared, I'll bring all three potions.

If you're so inclined use promo code:  NUMBER1

It's a buy 2, get 1 dealio

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

---

161.2 lbs
StandUpPaddle for an hour
7.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072

TONIGHT SO FUH-FUH-FUH FUN!  Jake joined for the standing DRTY WDNSDY hot up the trails. One thing ya gotta know about Jake is his company, NON-DOT, specializes in teaching people MTB skills.  He ain't just fast, he's skilled.  Just the kinda guy ya wanna be chasin' around...

... because he brings out the best.

Smooth lines.
Hitting the jumps.
Cleaning all the technical stuff.

Making it look easy.

We picked up a ton of virtual trinkets along the way.

But, that wasn't the point or goal or focus or whatever.

The only whatever we had going on was chasing each other 'bout as fast as we could go up and down and around and over.  Never really getting out of sight of one another... not that we weren't trying.

It was one of those rides.

Just really pushing.  Not too much small talk.  Riding too fast for that.

But not ruined afterwards.

And here's the thing... I don't think that style of chasing each other works on the road.  It's something that really lends itself to tighttwisty single track with punchy climbs.

Yep... it leaves me lusting for more dirt.

'Course ma' new MTB don't hurt.

But, Jake said the new gloves to match his new kits we made were helping too.

What can I say?

I'm a helpful guy.

If you're looking for beautiful kits, made in the USA with the best Italian fabrics... gives us a ring.

Speaking of rings... Jake's was covered with this glove.

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

He was also wearing these socks

Looking quite sharp is ya ask me.

If you want to look sharp like Jake, use promo code: LUSTFORDIRT

Which will give you 50% off your second item, buy gloves get socks for half off.

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

... oh, and you're always welcome to join us on DRTY WDNSDY.

---

163 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072

WELL, IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE OFFSEASON... but there hasn't even been a season.  We're sposed ta be restin', but ain't been racin'.  And while the days are getting shorter, our ride is getting bigger and faster and funner...

... and I'm lovin' it.

To see the fellas and the ladies is such a joy.

This morning I could see 'em from farther away than last week.  Their powerful blinky lights a warning to drivers and a beacon to riders.  Follow me to fun...

30 or so Bs
18 As
4 Gravelers

... all taking over the school parking lot for a catchup moment of Hey what's ups?, How ya beens? with a few Damn bro, you're looking fits.

As the countdowns to heading out approach the energy changes, our choreographed dances of pedals and pain gets begins.

Now I'm writing this with the Temptations on repeat... that driving beat of Get Ready...

... we're getting ready for the day, our way.

A great big shot of endorphins to inoculate us for the trials that face us each day. 

Join us, and bring a light.

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

Personally, I run these day and night.  Front and rear.

Use promo code:  GETREADY

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

---

163 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072

FINISH LINES AND HILLTOPS, they're a lot further than you think.  You can't see the top of a climb from the bottom.  You can't judge the speed of your competition closing from behind in a sprint.

But, racers ease up at the apex of climbs and final meters of sprints all the time...

... and thus we see...

... them fail, when just a few more seconds of gawdawful pain woulda kept 'em attached to the group or on top of the podium.

I know, I know... ya feel like you're getting one over on the competition when you can get over the top and catch 'em on the way down... or thump your chest and coast across the finish line... 

... we all know, which is exactly why we sprint hard over the top of the climbs and beyond the finish line...

... we're banking on you trying to get one over...

... sometimes it's the only way we can win.

So, we do a few more push ups at night,
eat a few bites less of ice cream,
stay late at work,
read to our children,
help the elderly cross the street...

... some of us need every advantage we can get to make up for the advantage you have...

... you can forget it ain't over 'till it's, in fact please do.

And you can also forget about PR Lotion... but we won't.  In fact, some of us like Rusty are so nice we purchase it for our friends... which is exactly what he did when he stopped by today for a new pair of bibs.

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

Sometimes I wonder if we sell more Amp PR Lotion than anybody else?  I should ask those guys sometimes.  I wouldn't normally think that, but people like Rusty keep coming back for more... and picking up some for their friends.

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

---

162.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.75 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4154603038

WATCHING LIEGE BASTON LIEGE THIS MORNING I had to say... Those roads are awful! Skinny, old and potholed. 

Conversely, racers at yesterday's TT in Italy complained about the very same conditions. 

Meanwhile, XC racers in The Czech Republic are racing on a course downhillers would struggle on a decade ago.

I'll say this...

... learning to race and ride in chaos gives ya a helluva lot more control.

Who are the greatest bike handlers?  MTBrs and Sprinters.

Why?

Which comes first?

We all start with our godgivens, for sure... and riding in unpredictable situations, practicing on bad terrain, expecting to be challenged increases our ability to thrive where others struggle and fail.

Each skill we add is one more cog in our cassette.

Which is exactly why I enjoy riding this bike so much.  I can work on group riding skills, dirt road skills, single track skills, curb jumping skills...

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

... more of those proverbial cogs equals more options for control when the chaos hits.

If you're in the PEDALposse... message me for pricing.

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

---

160.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8.3 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4152069307

THE WHOLE LIFE BEHIND BARS THING FOR CYCLISTS would be a lot funnier or more interesting or just a helluva a lot better if it made any sense.  We aren't behind bars, we're grippin' 'em hard...

... or we should be.

Poor MiguelAngelLopez.  There he was in the supertuck at the Giro today and hit something, completely losing control of his bike.  

Straight to hospital.

Surgery.

Race over.

Such a shame, and in my opinyun, avoidable.  

The problem with the supertuck... problem?... problems... the first problem is the bike becomes extremely unbalanced with a lot of weight placed on the front wheel.  But, the bigger problem is it's not easy to get out of that position quickly should you need to jump a road hazard, change directions, etc.

Is it really why he crashed?... I don't know, hard to tell, but the picture I saw was pretty damning.

Speaking of bars, modern MTB bikes are coming with bars so wide you can't fit them though an average doorway.

That's wide.

Too wide.

Again, this is my very biased opinion and not scientific at all... hearmeout!

Of course, being an obedient consumer, most of us just roll with what we purchased never thinking to change it up.

I'm guilty.

But, this new bike's bars were cartoonishly wide.

So we chopped 'em down.  

From 780mm to 700.

Apparently superwide is all the rage because it is more stable in the nasty stuff.

So, it wasn't easy to take out the ol' hacksaw and do some hacking.  I mean it's only a $400 mistake if done incorrectly.

Anyway... we chopped 'em down yesterday.

Result?

Lot's of PRs on the fast and steep stuff today.  Why?... well, those superwide bars just take a lot longer to get the wheel turned and require a much more exaggerated movement.  The narrower bars are much more nimble.

How did we determine the width?  

We did some eyeballing then I dropped and ripped of a few push ups at various widths.

Is that the only reason for the PRs?

No, I've been playing with shock pressures and tire pressures and I'm getting closer to being one with the rig and that very handy dropper post.  Plus, I found a tire combination, that is light, that I reall like.

I think Barred For Life is a lot closer to what we are... if we're not holding the bars, we're thinking about it.

Maybe I'll make that a tshirt and give it to the PEDALposse next month.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

---

161 lbs
nap
6.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4147011952

DO YA EVER FEEL RACEDAY IS LIKE THE START OF A BOND MOVIE?  All action, no plan.  Just winging it.  Too many variables.  

Bold colors.

Big music.

Danger.

But, somehow it's all gonna work in your favor.

Tomorrow isn't raceday, but we're gonna have a lot variables on our ride.

A bunch of us are meeting...

... some are doing the long, 80+, road loop

... some the shorter loop

... and a few of us - me - are starting on MTBs and peeling off to hit the single track.

Now why would I do a silly thing like that?

Well... I have the first, last and only MTB race of the year in 2 weeks and I'm a firm believer that the closer a race or big ride gets the more specific the training needs to be.

The race in question, The Cactus Cup, will be pretty flat.  Longest climb about 45 seconds, and the rest of the time it will be all about carrying speed on the flats and rolling those corners really fast...

... I mean what could be better than steamrolling the coast with the PEDALposse on my MTB to get Onnatop of the podium?

Well... joining the PEDALposse, obviously.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

---

159.6 lbs
Stretch N Roll
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4142073698

THE VAN NEEDED NEW TIRES, so of course I'm gonna take it to Holley's Tire Service... because the owner is a bike rider.  I walk in and Ron announces to the few patrons...

Pedal Industries, a fine establishment... though I'm not to sure about Todd!

Howdy Ron.

I've been sending all my friends down there, tell 'em we gotta support these guys... we finally have a nice shop and a good mechanic again.

Yes you have, and I truly appreciate that.

Todd, we're gonna resurrect the old group and I want you to do our kits.  Our last kits were terrible, from Pearl Izumi.

Wow, I'm surprised to hear that.

Yeah, maybe the guys went low end.

Exactly why we don't offer a low end option.

The kits you did for the mountain bike team... I still have mine and they are great.  The colors are still really bright.

Well we're ready when you are.

How can I help you today?

Van needs new rubber.

Go with the Firestone's.  They're great and made in America... just like your kits.

Now, you see what he did there?  He wasn't buttering me up... he was looking out for me because...

... friends don't let friends ride on junk.

When I road the gravel bike back to pick up the van Ron was gone.  Sergio handed me the keys and looked in the eyes...

You bring that back every 5000 miles and we'll rotate the tires so they last a long time.  Stop in whenever you need the air topped off.

Whenever possible I always go with the bike rider that offers what I need.  I know they are going to look after me and get me product that endures.

Heck, that's how I got into this business.  I was making apparel for large corporations and then started helping my friends in the bike business with their branded apparel.

Anyway, it's a good little town we have here... for a surf town, we have a lot of really good riders... because the surf is fickle and the bike is always ready...

... we have road rides nearly every day of the week and the town is surrounded by wildness in which the retired firemen have cut in all kinds of fun, challenging single track trails.

Which is where the stamp logo comes from...

... a little something about our tshirts.  These aren't your itchy, boxy cheap giveaways.

Nope.

These shirts are made from a special cotton that gets softer and softer the more you wear it.  

We use special inks that you can't even feel.  

And, yes... we help a lot of teams and companies get these t's with their logos on them, too.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

I shouldn't even offer a special price on these.  At $20, they're a steal.  That's twenty bucks total, including shipping.

This code is good on all t's for exactly 1 day.

The code is:  HOLLEY

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

---

161 lbs
Paddleboard
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4139743726

APPARENTLY IT'S AN AMERICAN THING, to cheer the underdog, the little guy, the unknown.  Maybe because we are all little guys, misfits in one way or another.  At least for me it can feel that way much of the time. 

But, we stick at it... whatever it is.

Perhaps that's why we're drawn to cycling, to racing and riding bikes.  It's unlike other sports.  I can quit surfing for months, paddle out and still have a blast.  Same with ping pong.  But bike riding... take off months and it's like we're pedaling through molasses. 

At the same time, if we keep working at it... keep plugging away, steadily, our bodies change.  We build new capillaries, lose weight, gain muscle... and have an affinity for pain others can't comprehend.

We know we're underdogs, with secret super powers in the making.

Look at a stone cutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred-and-first blow it will split in two, and I know it was not the last blow that did it, but all that had gone before.

- Jacob Riis

All this is making me thirsty... and I'm wondering if you're in need of some new bottles?  Not just any bottles, but the best bottles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack

A 2 pack, delivered to your door for less than $20 when you use promo code: UNDERDOG

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/pedalindustries-water-bottle-24oz-purist-2-pack

---

162.4 lbs
PushUps and PullUps
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4135398854

AT SOME POINT ON MOST RIDES someone says or does something that gets me thinking.  And, that happened today.  But, for the life of me i can't remember what it was.

Was it...

damn, my legs hurt?
how did you time meeting us?...

... actually yeah, that was it. 

Someone at the regroup asked how I knew how to ride the gravel options through town and wind up right on the road just as the group was hitting the final climb.

Well?.... How did we get there?

The short answer is... Bro, 'been doing the same loop with these cats for 17 years.

But, the long answer... that's the juicy stuff.

First, we didn't time it perfectly.  We rode our legs off and got there about 8 minutes early, then pedaled in circles for a bit.

Second, we woulda been there perfectly except we've only done the gravel option a handful of times and it had been about a year since the last go... and well, I played it conservative.

Third, we're gonna hit a bigger climb next week and have to really, really, really hustle to finish in time.

Because that's what you do when you are a rider and wear stretchy pants.  You put yourself in unreasonable positions and see if you've got what it takes to...

... meet the group
... make it happen
... exceed expectations
... do hard shiz...

... it's doing hard shiz that brings out the best of us.

That there isn't the prettiest quote over, but it is what I wanted to convey.

On that note... 

... when you're ripping down the side of a mountain on a rough road or trail, doing all you can to make it to the meet up on time or beat your nearest competitor the very last thing you want to have happen is to have your water bottle launched out of the cage.

Now, if that has happened to you then you know what I'm talking about.

You're tempted to leave the bottle behind but you know dern well you're gonna need those calories and electrolytes. 

So you stop.

Lose all your momentum. 

Hike back up... kinda like the walk of shame... as fellow racers scream by.

All because you have a cheap, crummy cage.

What we have here below is not cheap and not crummy.

It's EXtremely strong, veryvery lght, and expensive.

But, nowhere near as expensive as flushing all your effort of registering and training and traveling and racing ahead and then losing because your cage is for losers.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/mandible-bike-cage

That right there is pure beauty.  Think of it as the ring on your betrothed and don't go cheap. 

It's hella expensive to lose a bottle in a race. 

We have 2 in stock, we can get more... but the promo code is only good now.

Promo code:  STRETCHY

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/mandible-bike-cage

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

161.2 lbs
Stretch N Roll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4128586289

I'M PROBABLY DOING THIS GRAVEL THING ALL WRONG.  We don't have endless country roads all graded and perfect with a little gravel on top for weather.  And, I like it that way...

... I like big ruts and I cannot lie...

Just to mixedsurface it up tomorrow I'll be starting the TMWC with the group and exiting stage right at the first dirt path we cross.

Then we'll cut across town on pavement - where we might see the guys again - before diving down to the dry creek bed, which hopefully will have a few wet crossings.

Followed by a touch of pavement before we climb up dusty dirt road with ruts through the wildness area.

Then zip through a neighborhood before poaching more dirt.

At that point, we'll really be back on the route and if all goes as planned we will slot right in with the rest o' the gang.

That's def not a gravel ride, but it's the freedom one gets on a gravel bike... which just might be why they're all the rage.

Speaking of all the rage, we got a bunch of new colors in our gloves... and I'm thinking the Orange is just perfect for Fall colors.

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

If you have not tried our gloves before, well you might be missing out.  They are superlight weight.

The top is BreezyMesh.

The palm is real leather.

The thumb is terrycloth.

The fingers have reactive thread for your smart phones.

And... they're $24.99 and qualify for FREE SHIPPING... or less if you're part of the PEDALposse - > https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162 lbs
Stretch N Roll
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4125097202

from my lunch ride, on my gravel bike

RIDE LONG ENOUGH AND YOU'RE GONNA GET A FEW SCRAPES ALONG THE WAY.  A little skin lost here, a good gash there.  Hopefully, it's very rare.  I've had a few and one offshoot is I'm an expert in healing abrasions...

... and I put that experience to good use this morning, and I reckon you'd do the same.

My mom, who is visiting for a bit, stubbed her big toe on a sharp edge and peeled the skin right off the bottom it.  Blood all over the place.

I knew just what to do... the same thing I'd do if I left a little skin behind.

Soak it.

Flush it with Betadine.

Pour on some Hydrogen Peroxide.

Add a good layer of Neosporin.

Wrap with a proper bandaid.

I'll do this daily until it heals from the inside out.

It was kinda nice to put all my self-taught medical skills to work, paying back to the woman who patched me up plenty of times...

... in fact, this doesn't come close to the doctoring she's done on me.

You're probably wondering how am I going to turn this tale into a sale?

Well, due to the simple fact she's a certified lover of the red, white and blue it's pretty easy.

She loves this kit, too.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriot

Plus she's always been the most irritatingly organized person I know.  So, in honor of her bravery this morning and her red, white and blueness and organizedness...

... when you order this kit and use this promo code: PATRIOT

You'll get a Classic Patriotic RaceDay™ Bag.

But, you've got to use the code by midnight 9/28/2020.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriot

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162 lbs
Stretch N Roll
8 hours sleep 
no ride

TBH, WE WERE GOING TOO FAST TO SNAP A DECENT PIC THIS MORNING... and, well, I'm kinda embarrassed.  Every now and again I'll do a ride invite, post it here and there, say all are welcome, then put in a little disclaimer like this...

While this is being touted as casual... it wont' be. No waiting, no lollygagging. Well over 5k of vert. Plan on 3.5-4hrs. Be prepared to find you're own way home.

For some reason, I was expecting 10-15 guys to show up and ride with us.

Nope.

4.

Was it something I said?

Mmmmmmaaaaaayybee 

Now why would I go and say a think like Be prepared to find you're own way home?

Was it selfish?

Mmmmmmaaaaaayybee.

Was it mean?

Mmmmmmaaaaaayybee

Was it honest?

Yep.

Was it freeing?

Also, yep.

We got after it early and hard.  And even though the Wahoo was in the back pocket I was prittydarnsure we were flying.  Before long, 4 became 3.

I knew this was going to happen even though we'd done a pinky swear to takeiteasy.  Which is why I had the disclaimer.

Now the very best thing about a disclaimer like that is..

nobody's gonna get rut hurt when they get dropped and left fer dead
nobody's gonna come ready to slay and be bummed waiting all day

Still... it woulda been fun to start out with more boys and girls, get strewn across the mountains and share a Coke after.

Is there anything more American than that?

Maybe this...

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic

It was designed by the everawesome Shelby a while back, and I like to rock it often.  I have a hunch I'm not alone...

... so, if ya order before end of day on Monday the 28th, and you use...

promo code:  PATRIOTIC

... then we're gonna throw in something special with your kit order and deliver the kits by the end of October.

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.4 lbs
Stretch n Roll
6.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4115909144

I LIKE TO READ THE CYCLING NEWS AS MUCH AS THE NEXT ADDICT, and when I saw Geraint Thomas blaming his fourth place finish on not having his Garmin on his bike... well, it got me thinking.

Is that so?

I mean, we just watched a kid blow the competition away in a time trial last weekend who said he wasn't getting any data from his team during the last 20 minutes because the crowd noise was too loud.

Isn't it possible G rode out of his mind because he didn't have his digital boss?

Then there's little ol' me... I've been snagging some pretty good PRs and bigboy cups on my new bikes with my Wahoo stuffed in my back pocket... 'cuz I been too busy to procure a proper mount.

Could it be we kneel and heal too much?

I know for the last couple of years I've tossed the Wahoo in the back pocket for most of my races.  Going on feel and using my noggin and spirit as my guides.  It's gone pretty dern well.

What if it's overwhelming us to look down and see the HR is soaring over 180 and the watts screaming beyond 400?

Truth is... sometimes it just makes it all hurt that much more.  In the middle of all the wheezing and slobbering we look down see eyepopping data and just wanna quit.   

Maybe G was free to fly?

We'll never know, but I do know this kit makes me happy because it reminds me of all the freedoms we enjoy in this wonderful country. 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic

It was designed by the everawesome Shelby a while back, and I like to rock it often.  I have a hunch I'm not alone...

... so, if ya order before end of day on Monday the 28th, and you use...

promo code:  PATRIOTIC

... then we're gonna throw in something special with your kit order.

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

161.4 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8.25 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4112319687

THERE IS ONE THING I LIKE ABOUT THE SMALL RING...  TBH, I generally work my @$$ off every day.  Up early getting my studies in, work all day, get in a ride of some sort, write this blog, hit the hay.

If it weren't for the small ring, I'm not sure I'd have any friends at all...

... because that's when I talk with my friends the most.

Could be anything.

Tonight I chatted with Mark about the Tour, Will about trying to ride easy then winding up in the break, Eric about Saturday's ride plans, Matt about his wife spending thousands at the shop, young Jack about how to ride in the group...

... and that's just what I can remember.

None of it's important, yet I think I'd die with out those conversations and friendships.

God bless the small ring.

Now back to that behind of mine...

... Craig came in today to try on some bibs before placing his team order.  Like all first timers he had a lot of questions.  Which I answered quite simply with...

 ... Try 'em on...

Which always leads to the next question...

... Why do these feel so nice?...

Which I always answer with...

... We work real hard on our fit and our pad placement, and we import the best Italian fabrics... but you're going to love 'em even more once you ride in 'em...

Which brings me back to the small ring...

... when you're just riding along with your pals and talking about nothing, ain't it great to have on a great fitting pair of bibs?

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pro-bibs

I know our bib pics aren't typical, and I know we could do better telling our story online, and we would if we weren't spending every free moment making the best product we know how to make.

But, just look at the joy in this pic to get an idea of what I'm talking about.

And if you're buns are in need of something more awesome get yourself some new bibs.

Use promo code:  SAVE10.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pro-bibs

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
6.8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

THE FIRST TIME I WAS DROPPED WAS THE WORST.  It was like my soul had been ripped out.  I wasn't out of breath, I was out of life.  How would I ever get over the...

... heartache of being dropped by the lovely and beautiful Tracy, receiver of my first real kiss?

The second scarring drop was by the great Matt Ohran.

I was much more mature at this point, a college man.  He was a young high school punk.

I was on my first road bike.  He was on his third or fourth.

I was taller.  He was...

... a helluvalot stronger and just road away from me up Provo canyon.

Funny thing is, getting dropped still stinketh.  Still hurts...

... and that's what makes it so damn enjoyable.

Because it's soulsucking and humbling and occasionally even enraging it motivates the crud outta me.  Makes me want to be a better athlete.  Eat better.  Rest better.  I'd say love better, too... but this is a family show.

So, what does getting dropped mean?

It means I suck, and I can and will do better.

One thing that's good to have in your jersey pocket, in the event of being dropped miles from home is a few bucks.

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

It's made outta innertube, which is surprisingly grippy on jersey fabric... meaning there is no way this is going to fall out of your jersey.

Less than $20, ships FREE.

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

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll

https://www.strava.com/activities/4104274848

OKAY, I FINALLY GET IT.  I can see how one could easily purchase a top o' the line gravel bike and be set.  I know I'm not exactly breaking new ground here... but I am for myself.  And after today, I'm darn tempted to do it.

 It was a pretty good test.

I rolled to our local group ride on my new gravel bike, with Pirelli 40s on it and 50lbs of pressure.  This is a very nice bike, but it's 2 tiers down from the flagship bike.  So, it could be lighter... a lot lighter if I had a second set of lightweight road wheels.

Anyway, I hung on pretty good except on the steepest, longest climb.

This is same set up that with 32lbs of pressure allows me to ride all the dirt roads and really enjoy good chunk of the single track.

It's definitely a Jackofalltrades bike, and a true master of fun.

Will I really cut the quiver down to 1 bike?

Nah.

But, it's a real option... and would make life pretty simple.

Speaking of keeping it simple, some people join the PEDALposse for that very reason.: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
6.8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4097329990

IS THERE A GOOFIER WORD, HARDER TO SPELL FOR A 'MERICANS THAN DERAILLEUR?  How the heck has that word survived so long in its funked up french form?  No matter. 'Cept that when I went to spell it today it reminded me of derailled rookie RaceDays.

Friends... there are things rookies do that ya just can't 'xplain.  And we try and ignore 'em and pretend we never did 'em.

But we did.

Fer sher.

The one that just kills me is watching RookieRacer put in all that time training, spend all that coin on a nice rig, getting the team race clothes, traveling to the big race and it all goes kapoof because they didn't tend to prepping their bike.

"Suddenly" their bike...

won't shift
won't stop
has a flat
has a wobbly wheel
grips spin on the bars
saddle falls off

... oh, it's endless, and it could all be avoided with a simple RaceTune.

Of course many rookies know this but wait until the day before their race do the RaceTune only to find out...

the mechanic is too busy
the parts are out of stock
the work was done but no time to test it and find out it's still not fixed

... so sad, and avoidable.

Here's how to do it proper.

Get your RaceTune ten days before, including any new parts.  That way you have time to test the mechanic's work, test the new parts, test the set up.  Leave yourself time.

The day before the big race is when you'll do a little detail work.  Make your bike pretty.  Do the final lubing.  

What's a RaceTune include?

Bike wash
Overall wear inspection - Brakes, tires, cables, etc
Drive train detail and lube - ultrasonic chain clean, pulleys and cassette degrease
Check bottom bracket
|Tubeless tire inspection/refill
Wheel truing
Brake and derailleur adjustments
Safety check – bolt tightening

In other words, your bike is going to be ready to slay the day!

What's it cost?

We charge $99.99, unless you're part of the PEDALposse.

Check it out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

164.2 lbs
PushUps and PullUps
7.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4093907049

THE LAST TWO DAYS OF LAST WEEK WERE REMARKABLE.  I've tried to pin down the difference, and I think it's this.  I rode my bike to work.  It's a short ride, no more than 15 minutes.  But, I think it made all the difference.

Can't really explain it.

Or put into words.

All I can tell you is, it's wonderful to go for a quick spin before you dig in.

Even if you're working from home.

I'm not talking about a training ride.

I'm talking about a fun ride.

Maybe a little curb jumping.  Some skidding.  That kinda thing.

What does that have to do with racing?

Well... you know... happy workers are productive workers and productive workers have more time for racing...

... more proof that every day really is RaceDay™.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/every-day-is-raceday-trucker-curved-bill-adjustable-hat

Use promo code: RIDETOWORK..

... and save $10 on this hat... use before Wednesday.

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.8 lbs
StretchNRoll
8 hours sleep 
rest day

THE FIRST TIME MATT BROGHT HIS GIRL ON ONE OF OUR RIDES, I was glad we weren't in a hurry.  We went over to Laguna.  Somehow the trail I suggested as kinda technical had turned a lot gnarlier than I remembered.  Like all you could do was just skid and hope for the best or walk.  

She walked.

A lot.

But, as they say, that was then and today was now.

6 months later.

Start with her leading us up the first climb.  Well, I've gotten used to that.  She's significantly faster now... with plenty of crowns to prove it.

Then, I suggest we try out a new trail. Matt said he rode it a long time ago and it's kinda steep.  I'm stoked because I want to test out my new dropper post on my new bike.

The trail turns out to have a number of very steep drops with ruts down the middle that you either have to skid and hope or walk.

Guess who rode it like a boss?

Yeah, the girl... mom of 3, 4 if you include Matt.

A lot of people have taken up bike riding in the last 6 months, and they're a lot better through dedication and practice and keeping it fun.  Most of it because someone in their life took the time to show them how to ride.

But, you ask... How does one ride sillysteep drops with ruts?

Well, it's really quite simple.

Relax, let the bike roll and stay focused on the ridable parts of the trail. 

The body follows the head, the eyes lead the way.

Look were you want to go...

... and ride your bike often.

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

It's always good advice.

And, I know if you're anything like me you're encouraging your family and friends to get out and ride.  Get control of their health.  Have a ton of dawgawn fun.

Less than $20, free shipping.

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

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4084136566

I TEND TO GET SENTIMENTAL ABOUT MY BICYCLES... they are like mistresses... after epic adventures, training miles, and the occasional win of some sort... awww, so hard to let go.

Take Sparky.

Purchased nigh 18 months ago for the single purpose of PRing Leadville.

Requirements:

Very, very light.
Kicka$$ handling to fly down the mountains.
Complete lock out for the long steady and sometimes paved climbs.

I wasn't taking any chances and after doing my research the Scott Spark was the top choice.

How light?
22ish lbs.

How good is the handling?

On the Powerline downhill I recorded the 2nd fastest time ever in my age group, and fastest time of 2019 in my age group.
On the Columbine downhill I recorded the 3rd fastest time ever in my age group on, fastest time of Leadville 2019 in my age group.

How important was that full lock out?

PR'd these climbs:

St. Kevins
Sugarloaf Outbound
Columbine
... and 47 seconds of my PR on Powerline (over 40 minutes long) 

But I expected all that because I'd had a very similar result at the Tahoe 100 where I got the V.

So... when it came time to put Sparky up for sale today it wasn't easy.  Such a fast, fast bike helped me accomplish my big goal of last year.

Yes, I trained hard.  Yes, I dropped 10lbs.  Yes, I did everything I could think of to get that PR...

... Yes, Sparky is fast and looking for a new home. 

Along with these upgrades:

Power2Max powermeter
Roval CLX MTB wheels - ceramic bearings.
Gripshift 
Carbon power saddle

Just replaced brake pads and grips

Size Large.

Price $4500.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/scott-spark-900-world-cup-2019

More photos here: 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/scott-spark-900-world-cup-2019

I didn't ride it much after Leadville... here's the Strava Link: https://www.strava.com/bikes/5713280

PEDALposse, hit me up for special pricing.

Oh, and that PR? Yeah, 8:15.

Still thinking about it?... here are the PRs: https://www.strava.com/activities/2608099538

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4079905432

YOU KNOW WHY BIKE RACERS DON'T MIND GETTING OLDER?  It's not that they generally look younger than their peers.  Nor that they feel great.  No, it's something only a bike racer understands...

... every 5 years we age up.

The first time a racer ages into the masters group and thinks Well, this will be easy...

... it's a big slap in the helmet, as the youngish master racers are so fast they generally kick the snot out the new kids aging in.

And after figuring out these cats are pretty fast, and finding one's way, well ya start to get the hang of things.  Maybe get a couple of wins,  Have some success.  And as one gets to the upper end of the 5 year group and starts to slow a tad, well...

... Golly, I'm gonna be aging up next year! We say with a grin.  I'll be sticking it to those old guys in no time.

And so the racer rides through life getting a reset every 5 years.  It's a heckuva nice thing when ya think about it.

Anyway, this guy pops in who I figure is about my age.  And we're chatting.  He's seen our kits around town and saw the sign and wanted to get a kit.  I'm thrilled, of course - we barely opened.  I ask him how old he is, thinking maybe we'll do some riding and racing together.

I'm gonna be 75.

75! I'm floored.

Yeah.  And next year I'll be aging up.  Can't wait to go to Nationals... plus, Worlds is going to be at Carson.

Well, how'd you do last year?

Pretty good, 2nd.

That's amazing.

Yeah, but nobody knew who I was.  They paired me with a guy and I wound up lapping him twice in a 2k race.  

I bet that through you off.

Yes it did.  The first time I came up on him on the second lap and thought I messed up the start.  Lost the race by .9 seconds.

Dang, that had to cost you several seconds.

Easy.

Well, who are you?

Oh, I was National Champion in '72.

I looked him up, Tom Sneddon was one of the first racers to compete in Europe in the early 70's.  On the ride tonight, one of the guys that knows Tom said he even beat the great Eddy Merckx once upon a time.

**Update below from Tom**

I have a feeling they'll all know Tom next year.

Would you like to know which kit Tom purchased?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-all-gray-kit

All gray... for people who smoke the competion.

I gave the locals discount... and I'll give it to the rest of ya's if ya order by end of day Sunday.  The code is LOCALS

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.8 lbs
StretchNRoll
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4074792675

THERE ARE 3 SKILLS ALL SUCCESSFUL RACERS MASTER, but one is by far the most important.

There's planning...

... starts with registering for the race and ends with crossing the finish line.  

There's avoiding mistakes...

... the more you race the more you develop your PEDALsense and consequently avoid mistakes.

But, the most important by far to keep moving...

... no matter how bad it hurts, no matter how bad things get, no matter what...

... keep moving!

Keep pedaling.  Keep eating.  Keep drinking.

I remember a really tough road race I did outside of Bakersfield.  It was just a vicious course.  Legendary.  It was my first time racing it.  I was dropped fairly early.  There was no way I was going to finish anywhere near the top 10.  I was already 40 guys down.

But, I kept pedaling and eating and drinking.

This isn't some comeback story at all.

It's a story of picking off one racer after another until I passed a former California State Champion, a guy who'd beat me like a drum for years.  Yes, he was having a bad day.

Did I podium?  No.

I wound up 18th or 12th or something, but it didn't matter.  I beat the champ, once.  That shiz gives ya confidence.  Ya can't buy that, but you can use it a lot in the future.

So many quit when it gets hard.

But not us.

Not me.

Not you.

That's ain't our way.  Ever.

We keep pedaling.  Always.  In everything we do.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162/8 lbs
StretchNRoll
7.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4071238181

AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO AS GIVEN A LITTLE MORE AT THE TOP OF A CLIMB THIS WEEK?  I can't even say it's subconscious.  Like this morning, I pulled on one of my yellow jerseys...

... next thing I know I'm kicking hard up the last 100 meters of my local climb...

... imaginary fans screaming Allez, Allez, Allez!, Imaginary foes in awe, have no answers, Imaginary announcers can't contain themselves...

... Well Bob, The Ol' Diesel is living up to his name today.  Look at the determination, the metronomelike churning of his old pistons flattening the hopes of the youth...

... Phil, nobody saw this coming, the domination of the silverhaired beast!

I couldn't wait to upload, even though the Wahoo wasn't recording bpm.  I'd taken the gravel rig over to two of my local climbs and I was just sure I'd laid down fast times.  

I mean, I better.

New, lighter, faster, better bike on dirt climbs I typically hit on my MTB or my previous gravel bike named HVY MTL.

2 PRs.

You know what that is right?  It's proof advertising works.  I've been advertising to my mind great climbing feats for nearly 3 weeks now.  It's bound to rub off.  

It's also proof gravel bikes on dirt roads climb faster than mountain bikes.

Finally, it's proof I've dropped about 3 lbs in the last 5 weeks.

It matters.

Does wearing the yellow jersey matter?  Maybe if it's the lightest jersey on the market, made with fine Italian fabrics right here in CA.

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

Check out how thin that fine mesh front is... it's weird too.  Super cool on hot, hot days yet surprisingly comfy when there's a chill in the air.  Maybe weird is the wrong word... magical would be better.

That's me modeling with my lopsided - buster off an 1" of my collarbone once - shoulders.

Anyway, you get the idea... our Speed jerseys are tres bien.

The matching bibs are smashing as well.

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

Me again.  The bibs come in Regular and Tall.  In this pic I'm in the Regular cut.  I prefer that cut in the summers for the purely vain reason of better tan lines.  

Anyway, if ya like that kit... we call it Dia de los Muertos and if you order it now you can have it before Halloween.

Just don't tell anyone I told ya to use this promo code: Allez

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

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163 lbs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4063883113
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4066335559

IT TAKES A WHILE TO GET A FEEL FOR BIKEY THINGS.  How tight to turn a screw, How much tire pressure, How much drink mix, How much food...

... today I needed to twist my cleats a smidge.

The reason for such smidginess was to align them properly for yours Diesely.  I stand and walk like a duck, so heels in for me.  But, not too much... just a smidge.

Tomorrow, I will not be putting on a glob of PR Lotion.  The reason being that I'm still rehabbing my calf which I messed up by not slamming new cleats all the way back when I went from Speedplay to Durace.  I'm traditionally a slam'emback guy, and somehow missed this... rookie move, I know.

I'm gonna take it easy until I'm the smidging and slamming is muy comfy.

I guess I might put on a glob PR Lotion, because I'm sure the set up on other bike, the BMC-URS, is perfecto... yeah, I'm putting on a glob fo' sho'...

... and I'm not the only one, stage winners are too!  Did you see this one?

You can read the details below or just take my word for it.

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

Buy 2 PR Lotions, get 1 Chamois Butt'r free when you use this promo code: GLOB

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

By Nigel Mitchell, Cycling World Tour Nutritionist, Clinical and Olympic Dietitian

The basics of sports science are pretty much understood and there isn’t much that has come out in the last few years that has been a genuinely new concept.  What has changed is technologies have gotten better and our understanding of how to maximize concepts has improved. I believe sodium bicarbonate and PR Lotion is a perfect example. It’s not a new concept, but the route of delivery has changed now from oral to transdermal. 

When I first started in nutrition and was working in cycling back in the 1990s, we explored the use of sodium bicarbonate with some positive effects. But the risk of a negative reaction outweighed the potential benefits. So sports performance professionals stopped talking about it and using it. Now that a technology exists that can sidestep the negative side effects, it’s worth exploring because the science behind sodium bicarbonate supplementation is there. 

When you get to the professional level, most athletes have maximized their physiological performance and the opportunity for improvement is fractions of a percent. Therefore, podium finishes are the result of more than talent. They are the culmination of years of consistent training and fine-tuning recovery strategies needed to support it. Any tool that can improve one of those areas is important. 

Evaluation Process

I was first introduced to PR Lotion by Simon Clarke; he’s a very accomplished pro cyclist and a believer in oral sodium bicarbonate. He told me PR Lotion worked for him and that I should take a look into it, so I reached out to my external support network. It turns out that one of the researchers I contacted was already working on a project focused on PR Lotion and had positive things to say. 

In my own evaluation of any new product, there are 2 areas I always consider:

What is the scientific theory behind it? 
Oral sodium bicarbonate is well researched but the drawback has always been the GI distress. PR Lotion is an interesting alternative. By getting sodium bicarbonate into the body through the skin, PR Lotion makes a proven supplement available for use on a regular basis.  

What is the risk? 
When it comes to risk, I focus on the potential adverse health effects and how a product fits in with anti-doping policies. Amp Human has done the legwork to become certified Informed Choice and Informed Sport so that covers the regulatory and they are cleared by the FDA, so product safety is there. 

Knowing PR Lotion is a product that has solid theory and really low risk, I was comfortable bringing in our team doctor, Dr. Kevin Sprause. He has a great sports science understanding and I really value his insights and knowledge. We may not have been 100% sure about what to expect, but we had to explore what this could potentially do for our athletes. To be elite, to be cutting edge, you can’t always wait for the definitive science. Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.

Implementation

When introducing new products to my athletes, I’m always honest. The conversation is around the product, the potential benefits, the theory behind it, and the feedback I’ve gotten. Then ultimately it’s their choice. Athletes are usually willing to try something when there's no BS around it. 

When we started using PR Lotion at EF Pro Cycling, we began with a training session. When the sessions went well or the rider didn’t perceive any effect,  we then tested it out in a time trial training session. After those 2 sessions, we collected feedback that varied from “I’m not sure it did anything” to “I really like that stuff.” The key here is that there were ZERO negative side effects. No GI distress like with oral sodium bicarbonate. I wasn’t looking for massive changes immediately; sodium bicarbonate can be such a subtle thing and can have a bigger impact over time vs. immediate use, but no side effects confirmed there was now a safe and effective way to integrate bicarb as a performance aid to the team. After those trials, we saw significant enough improvements that we made PR Lotion part of the core routine to make sure it's available to those athletes that want to use it.

When it comes to routine, on race day, we work backward from the start time, pre-race meal, some recon work and look at applying PR Lotion 90 min before the start. Depending on the athlete, it gives them enough time to dress and start their warm-up 20-30 min before the race. In a training situation, we have the athletes apply the lotion before they head out on the ride. 

Benefits

There are a lot of questions around influencing muscle pH and how that may affect performance and recovery. When training or competing at or above the lactate threshold, the body produces more acid than it can process leading to a shift in pH. The higher acidity causes negative effects on muscle function and the biochemistry of the muscle so being able to alkalize the muscle to a preferred pH is something that's interesting. 

For the athlete, where intensity and volume are important (ie training sessions and competition), the threshold can be a limiting factor in performance. By using PR Lotion, we can deliver sodium bicarbonate to the body, in the hope of delaying reaching that threshold. In doing so, we may be able to get better performance. The other key here is in alkalizing the tissues, we may help the muscle return to neutral pH more quickly aiding in the recovery process to prepare for the next day. In pro cycling, athletes have to perform day after day after day in training and in competition.  Anything that can aid in that recovery should be looked at and evaluated.  

Take Away

The science behind the PR Lotion is still evolving but the feedback that we’ve gotten has been very positive. In my mind, the biggest benefits of PR Lotion are around recovery and how it supports training over time and in athletes that are competing multiple times over consecutive days. 

I know PR Lotion is used across multiple sports in the USA and abroad and we’re seeing better recovery so we’ve added it to the suite of things we're trying to get done. It’s about maximizing recovery in a simple package and PR Lotion is a brilliant tool to help do that.

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

Buy 2 PR Lotions, get 1 Chamois Butt'r free when you use this promo code: GLOB

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

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.2 lbs
30 PullUps 90 PushUps
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4061260006

THE CREAKY DOOR AT THE GENERAL STORE.  Dusty MTB shoes clunk across wood floor. 

Grab a coke.  Air is full of smoke. 

A heavyset lady rings me up, then chats me up.

I like your uniform.

Thank you.

Where'd you ride from?

San Clemente?...

I coulda just headed on out, but I stayed.  She was nice.  The store was slow.  Kinda dark.  I don't know if she was lonely.  Either way it was good.  To just talk.  About nothing.  Local lore, closed roads, the approaching Fall, and such. 

... you be careful out there.

Yes, ma'am.

I sat on the picnic bench a bit. 

Enjoyed my Coke, just like the ad promised.

Cars sped by on the country road.  Customers came and went.  Everybody in such a hurry to get somewhere other than where they were.

Not me. 

...

I get a lot of comments on this kit.  Some hate it, most love it.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/military-camo

THERE'S A STORY BEHIND EVERY RACER.  Probably a hundred stories.  Stories of triumph and failure, training hard and winging it, riding together and going it alone.  Those are the ones we live to tell.

There are others that often go untold and unnoticed...

... and they make all the difference.

Right before I hit the hay last night, my good friend Emetski shot me a picture of his son's 2 RaceDay Bags™.

Apparently one race day bag isn’t enough for Lotoja. John requires two. I’m driving support for him tomorrow.

I wish I had something pithy to add, or some sappy remark... I got nothing.  Because I'm driving support for him tomorrow says it all.

Then I woke up to a message from my nephew, with a pic of his son's bike ready to race NICA.

Race day bag all ready to go for Goose!

The parents, spouses, siblings, children, friends... that giant network of love that supports us, that we support... they are the very best part any race, without them there is no story.

And sometimes they worry about us, and we worry about them.

Which is why I like to ride with blinkies day or night when I'm on the road... like these that flash front and sides.

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

Use promo code: LOVE

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

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973

THE STORY OF MY VERY BROKE FRIEND.  I say nearly broke, because he put his last $50 down on membership in the classiest country club in town.  His dream was to earn the respect of the community and own a spectacular home on the golf course.

I've returned to the private telling of that story to me many times during my ride through life...

... because he made it happen.

Rather than let his reality tailor his dreams, his dreams tailored his reality.

This isn't a time for an If it were easy everyone would do it conversation.  We already know that.  Nor is this any kind of a pep talk.  It's a simple question...

... who is the tailor of our future?

I suppose this is why I'm such a proponent of signing up for events as soon as possible.  Think of it as the price of membership in a very exclusive club.  A club where everything starts to align itself:  training, equipment, diet, etc... but, most importantly, the calendar.

Working backwards from RaceDay is magic. 

It's the dream, tailoring our reality.

Today, I plunked down my shekels for BWR CedarCity.  

It's going to be terrible.  Heinous.  Awful.  And I can't wait!

The next 35 days are going to be filled with a lot of gravel riding.  Upper body work.  All the things that will lead up to a wonderful day with 2000 of my closest friends.

It's a gravel ride/race, and I have a badass BMC gravel bike - https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three

Of course, I'll be doing some mods on it.  Testing out tires and pressures.  Ya know... making it into a real rascal.

This is the best time of year to ride gravel.  If you're ready for an amazing rig, give us a shout.  Especially if you're in the PEDALposse.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973

I WAS A LATE BLOOMER.  And, it sucked.  My friends were big and strong.  I was small and weak.  They were fast.  I was slow.  They starred in the ball and stick sports, I scratched and clawed to play on a terrible tennis team.

How bad was it?

Well, picture this.  You're 16, just got pulled over for looking too young.  Not a big deal.  This is a big deal...

... you're in the hot tub with your pals - your pals!!!! - and the popular ladies and someone noticed you got no armpit hair.

Yeah, that convo just went downhill... not as quick as my arms dropped to my sides.  I tried to make it stop, then "remembered" I had to be home by midnight.

I was so embarrassed... and I was really hacked off.  

Swore I'd never hang with them again.  Made all kinds of promises to myself.  Slunk around school the next couple of days.

Anyway, eventually I grew a pair.  And all was right in the universe...

... until I borrowed my roommates road bike.

It was that fateful when I went for an 8 mile - 8 miles! - bike ride.  No, actually it was the next day when I took it without asking and went 12 miles... Yeah, that was the day I fell all in love again with bicycles.

I was still a skinny kid, but that turned out to be a good thing.

Finally there was something I could be kinda good at.

But the best part, which I had no idea of at the time, is bike riding and racing is a lifelong sport... all those ball and stick sports eventually wind up really hurting people.  And they get on bikes to rehab.  And a lot of 'em figure out this bike riding and racing thing is pretty cool.

I talked to a number of customers this week who are really excited to go and ride their first century.

And they're asking me how quick can they get their RaceDay Bags™, and what else will the need, and I realize how dawgawn lucky I am to do what I love to do...

... to make products I know will help make RaceDay better.

Like our changing poncho.  It's such a drag to try and change in a car.  The poncho is just so handy.

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

And this video is pretty entertaining.

Use promo code; LOVEWHATIDO

At checkout.

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

---

163.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973

I'VE FOUND THE TOP RACERS CAN BE DIVIDED INTO 2 TYPES OF PEOPLE.  Friendly and, uh, Notfriendly.  Fortunately for me, I have met a lot of friendlies.  And, they make all the difference in my life.

This week has been typical of the kinds of help I receive.

Steve took time out his day to help us build out the new office/shop.

Paul saw the sorry state of our lighting and sent his crew over to light us up proper.  Haveco Electric is awesome!

John leant his back to help us move the heavy stuff around.

Scott answered my text today...

I hurt myself.  Could be bad.

Come at 530.

So here I am in the front office of my favorite Physical Therapist, Scott Moncrief - ProSport PT.  Haven't been here since flipping off my 450 at 40 miles an hour.  

I can barely walk.  Something is extremely jacked in my calf area.  

It was tender yesterday, not sure why.  Felt better this morning...

... so of course what could be better than a gravel ride?

Probably nothing... until I did this little jump at speed.

Then, it hurt like helk.

Barely made it home.

All the thoughts... will I ever ride again?  will I be able to have children? will my family be okay?... all silly, I hope.

What do I think caused it?  I've been struggling to adjust to a new pedal/cleat set up on my road bike.  The calf has been bugging me for twoish weeks.  Like an idiot, I did not listen... did some research this afternoon and the cleat is probably too far forward.

I lay upside down on the table I know all too well.

Scott starts at my heel and works his way up towards the back of my knee.  

Slowly.

Quietly.

He gets to the place where Achilles tendon attaches to the two calf muscles.

It hurts.

He starts over.

Silent.

Finally...

Ok, good news.  It's not your Achilles.  You've strained the Somecrazyanatomyterm. That's where 90% of lower leg injuries occur.

I'm supremely relieved.

He hooks me up to his tech, a cold wrap with electricity pulsing through... leaves me here to write.

The prescription:

Ride easy.  Do not get out of the saddle.

Stretch often.  Ice often.  Do not go for a 5 mile walk on the sand.

Rest... I think I needed that anyway.

I've made the best friends through this sport.

While I'm sitting here my GP Doc Gephhardt comes in.  His practice is across the way.  He rides and even owns our TMWC jersey, but has yet to join us.  He's still my friend : )

One thing a lot of my friends in common is they are part of the PEDALposse... and it ain't just 'cause we're friends.

Check it out -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973

You know it's an honor to be on Scott's wall, and you know you musta done something ya shouldn't have to get there.

The tech!

A WHILE BACK I WAS ON MY TO MEET THE POSSE AND I HAD TO PULL OVER AND ADJUST MY BRAKE.  I got going soon enough.  The light ahead was green and I was going to keep my speed high and make up that lost time.  Then something happened I'll never forget...

... a car traveling about 50mph blew right through the red...

... had I not stopped for that quick adjustment I'd have been in that intersection at the same time as the car.  After which... I'd be dead, or worse.

Ever since then I've never minded the little things that through me off my schedule. 
The ill-timed flat. 
The missed light.
Waiting few seconds for a friend.
Turning back for my water bottles.
It's a long list of things that can keep us off schedule.  

I wonder if Joe was thinking that when his 5 year old ran after him crying at 625 this morning making him late to meet the group? 

Because it's exactly what I was thinking when I stopped to help Jon with his 3rd and 4th flat tires.

Ya never know.

Just like ya never know how incredibly soft our tshirts are, how they are cut for a fit racer like yourself, what our special NoFeel inks are all about until you own one for yourself.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/stamp-logo-pedalindustries-white-and-kelly-green

Use promo code SAVE10

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.6 lbs
Stretch N Roll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4030504323

HAD A CAT QUIT TODAY BECAUSE HE SAID THE ODDS OF WINNING WERE TOO LOW.  It kinda bugged me.  And, it's still bugging me now.  But why...

... because I never quit anything?

... and, when the heck were the odds of winning anything worthwhile high?

Never.

But, there's another reason it bugs me...

... because I've learned far, far more from my losses than my wins.  It's the learning from failure that builds PEDALsense... that sense that only experienced riders have and use with heartless cruelty when the race is on the line.

... BREAKING NEWS ...

This just in from reporter BC.

E-Bike Rips Mans Heart Out

It's a sad state of affairs when pedalassist motorcycles (aka ebikes) feel compelled to snag KOMs. 

Will this spell the end of Starva?  I doubt it.  Why you ask?  For me, I'm much more interested in my own PRs.  

And what of my young padawan?  Should he be hacked off at the pedalassist motorcycles snagging his KOMs?  Yeah, kinda... for a bit.  But, he'll go to bed tonight knowing...

I did it my way!

Which is exactly what the pedalassist moto rider is thinking...

... which is exactly why I say KOMs aren't nearly as important as PRs...

... which is exactly why quitting because the odds of winning are low is such weaksauce!

As the great Churchill said...

... Never, never, never give up!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prs-rule

Does PR Lotion work?  Totally.

Use promo code: NEVER

And get save 25% on the PRs Over KOMs tshirt

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prs-rule

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.4 lbs
Body Surt
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4028087324

EVER GO FOR A LONG RIDE AND COME BACK WITH A SOLUTION?  What is it about just riding along that moves us from stuck to problem solved?

I dunno...

... but, I hope you sneak out for a little JRA today.

It'g gonna be hot, so remember to drink.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/3-2-1-hydration-base

This code saves you 20%... product ships free.

Code is LABOR

Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.6 lbs
Stretch and Roll
8 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4023532148

THERE'S A BIG BET EVERY WILEY VET PLACES AT SOME POINT ON A VERY FAST RIDE.  Take today for instance.  We have this hill called  Church hill, not 'cause you'll meet your maker there, but there's church at the top...

... and 3 lights separating you from deliverance.

Now, you could skip the reckoning altogether by simply cutting through the golf course on the preceding climb.

But, where's the fun in that when you could try your luck at 3 Light Stud?

This is a gentlemen's game, for the distinguished and wise and Igotnothing among the group.

The colts don't even know we're playing.  Every light for them is a chance to load the starting gate and sprint off.  They are so full of juice, riding their fancy carbon rigs, perfectly toned legs.  Lights are their place to shine.

Today I played it and got dealt a winning hand.

I'd messed up the preceding climb, was tempted to short cut it, but rode on... came over the top and saw the light at the bottom of the hill was red.  It's a right hander, and the colts had to slow down.  

They jumped hard, racing up the hill.

At a full gallop I took the turn and was about to start sprinting to catch when the second light turned red.

It turned green.

Colts jump with blinders on.

I never slowed and trotted right up.

But, they're charging hard.

I see the sorry sunsaguns that short cut through the golf course popping onto the road ahead... the colts see 'em as rabbits to be caught and devoured.

Damn, I'm thinking.

I'm about to dig hard and that third light goes red reigning in the colts and sunsaguns.

I lope up, light turns green, and easily gallop over the top with the fastest of the herd.

That my friends is a winning hand of 3 Light Stud.

And here's a winning offer.... BuyOneGetOne

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

Use promo code:  CONTIBOGO at checkout.

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.4 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4016908424

MG HAD DECLARED NO ICE CREAM FOR A MONTH.  MS got wind of that and gave up beer for a month.  I've been on my own quirky dietary experiment.

Is it LeTour...

... Parlez-vouz getyourbunsinshape?

I knew today was going to be a busy one, got after work early and plugged my ears any time anybody wanted to talk about today's stage.  I had just the right Friday night in mind...

... dinner with my lady, then off to the garage...

... pop up the iPad, launch the ad-free version of the tour, grab the cleaners, apply the lube, make a few adjustments...

... just me, my bike, and a couple of dudes with funny accents, not a bad way to end a good week.

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

Is there anything more gratifying than a bike ride? ...... You can get this one delivered to your mail box for less than 20 bones.

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

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.6 lbs
Move Office Workout
7.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4013315966

THERE ARE A COUPLE OF HOTROD SHOPS NEAR THE PEDALindustries EXPERIENCE.  The regular, deep V8 rumble is part of the scene down here... with a fair amount of clutch popping and rubber burning at the end of the day.

It's the perfect music as we gear up to ride.

Which brings up the shifter question every racer has to answer...

... not mechanical vs electric, not wire vs wireless...

... those are easy questions.  Well, not that easy when you're plunking down a chunk of green.  But those questions, are answered once.  Then, it's run what ya brung.

No, the bigger question is why it's so easy sometimes to shift into high gear and other times no amount of grinding 'em will help ya find 'em.

Ya know what I mean?

Last week on the big climb when the shift started coming down, I did just that and hung my head in shame for a week.

This week, same dawgawn climb and same shifty feeling in my legs but my soul had fire, passion, power and that final 200 meters was shifting up, standing up, and putting that shift behind me.

What's the diff?

Why the shift up 'steadda down?

The Seals say Embrace the suck!

Forever more I shall...

Embrace the shift!

And as we head into a brutal heatwave this weekend y'all probably think I'm cacrazy for encouraging you to order the incredible KOM jacket.  But, trust me it'll pass and the leaves will change and you'll be wanting this gem and we don't keep much inventory which means ya might have to wait a few weeks and that would be a drag when you coulda grabbed one now with this top secret code.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238917668

There are a number of reasons this is my go to layer:

• It's wind and water resistant membrane keeps me dry and warm.
• The fabric is super thing and the jacket will fit in my jersey pocket.
• We call it the KOM because it's the perfect thing to pull out after a long climb and faced with a long decent.

If you're looking for just the perfect jacket... and you will be, tuck this promo code away... the code is TWOTAILS...

... but don't wait too long, this fabric is imported from Italy and we had a heck of a time securing a few rolls.

And you team racers... yes, we can make it in your colors.

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.4 lbs
PullUps PushUps
7.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/4008573585

I TEND TO RIDE WITH PEOPLE THAT ARE ABOUT THE SAME SPEED OR A LITTLE FASTER.  So, when my dear friend CM was gone last weekend and let me know he was going to be gone again this weekend... I shoulda known.

Tonight is our standing dirt date...

... and it was clear I was in trouble on the very first tiny bump of a hill.

My legs were barking from a smashing TMWC yesterday... and CM, who missed it,  was just chatting me up like it was nuthin. 

On our first longish climb things got a little too quiet.  As you know, quiet rarely precedes joy..  And in this case, no doubt it was my own doing.  I couldn't talk.  It was all I could to keep up. 

He was putting the hurt on me pretty good...

... and I have to admit if Surfergirl dragged me out of town two weekends in a row I'd be laying down the power pretty heavy myself:  one, because I'd be rested; two, because I'd miss another weekend of riding.

Anyway, I'm sure this has never happened to you... but, if it does just remember it's not malicious... you are a little tired, your pal is not... you will be recovering the next few days and slaying the weekend, your pal won't... 

... it's not payback if it's not malicious.

Towards the end of the ride, it appeared we'd misjudged our adventure by about 20 minutes.  The shadows were getting too long, dusk was on us good.  

We hit this 2ish mile gravel segment, really pushing it.  CM on the front, like a locomotive.  I took a weaksauce pull and he came charging back around.  Then I gave it a good tug... because I remembered this would be a fun segment to get.

We got close.

We'll get it next time... maybe on a week when we've both been out of town and are rested.

One thing is for sure, it's always good idea to bring the blinkies  - regardless of the time of day.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light

We just got another shipment of these in.  The Lils and the Mids.  They're really awesome little lights, with 330 degrees or visibility.  Plus they are lite.

Anyway, you might be wanting some lights as the days start to get shorter... use this promo code:  LIGHTS.

For what it's worth, my friend RS just ordered a second set.  According to him You always recommend really good stuff.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.8 lbs
Stretch and Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4003822943

MY PAL JM HAS BEEN SLOWLY CARVING AWAY HIS PAST SINS, looking to release his inner Roglic.  It started with not even riding with us but just being on the course the same day.  The last few weeks he's been steady on the B... finishing higher and higher amongst the playahs.

Today... well, today he got faked into doing the A.

Apparently the Bs left early, and when he showed up he figured we were the Bs.

Well, we wound it up slow but kept winding and winding... and poor ol' JM is thinking... 

What are these guys doing on the B ride?  
Why is the B ride on fire today?
This really hurts.

And I'm thinking...

Dang JM is feeling pretty perky.
And pulling through like a boss.
This really hurts.

Of course all this was pieced together in the afterglow, when the endorphins have come and gone and all that's left is good laugh...

... because what's funnier than being faster than your pal who is just gonna kill ya in a couple of months?

Speaking of the next couple of months, we are now entering the shorter days.  Soon will be searching for our layers and there is no better tool for the job of keeping warm than the KOM jacket.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238917668

There are a number of reasons this is my go to layer:

• It's wind and water resistant membrane keeps me dry and warm.
• The fabric is super thing and the jacket will fit in my jersey pocket.
• We call it the KOM because it's the perfect thing to pull out after a long climb and faced with a long decent.

If you're looking for just the perfect jacket... and you will be, tuck this promo code away... the code is TWOTAILS...

... but don't wait too long, this fabric is imported from Italy and we had a heck of a time securing a few rolls.

And you team racers... yes, we can make it in your colors.

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.6 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/3983267627

IF YOU'RE PIQUED FOR POLITICAL POOP... well this is gonna skewer yer ego, 'cause if there's one thing you can't fake it's a steep as helk climb or drop on dirt.

All... and I mean ALL... other Stravabobava is most likely fauxing fake.

That KOM along that road where the wind blew hard as helk one day.

Fake.

That KOM SoandSo set starting at the back of the group and surfing to the front.

Fake.

I ain't even gonna give ya more ideas and temptations that mightcould lead your Stravasoul carefully down to helk.

But, I'm gonna say... the dirt lies less.

Still lies.

Just lots less.

It's really hard to fake a KOM on a 10% up or down trail.  Around here... the only way to really do it is if the trails are perfect then get washed out and never repaired.

Now this is not some veiled attempt to get ya to buy a super primo gravel bike or radiculous MTB.

It's just a reminder there's no point in fretting over things fraught with faux.

Especially when you could be out riding something wrought by Swiss geniuses.

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

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/bikeshop-fourstroke-01-one

Whoops... how did those pictures get in there?  Must be some sort of bug.

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.6 lbs
PushUps/PullUps
8.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/3983267627

WELL, IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR... FINALLY!  The most geeked up, pumped up time of year for riding road bikes is right now because: LeTour.

You don't even have to watch to get caught up in it.

But you will.

Well, I will.

I love it because it kicks off my 6 favorite weeks of the race year.  First Le Tour, for all its history and the forthcoming drama.

When Pinault crashed today... man, those frenchies really know how to whoop up the Allislost! sentiments.  I don't relish his crash.  It sucks, fo sho.  But, I do love the overemotions on display.

Soon there will be a Whatthehellishedoing squabble among some team of supertalents.  I'm picking Dumoulin on this, which I xpect Primoz (such a cool name it's like a combo of a villain's name and a winner's name) will shut down.

Of course, someone will think Sagan is longinthetooth... only too find out he just keeps getting craftier.

Back to the frenchies... I'm not sure who will be the great frog hope this year?  Freakin Alaphillipe last year was so awesome.  I've loved that cat since he came over as a tadpole to rip of the ol' ToC.  Anyway, who will it be... Julian again... that would be so, dang, fun... he's got all the emotion sans the fatalism.

Teams Colombia look ready to: defend in the form of Bernal, attack in the form of EF, and agitate in the form of Astana... and then there's  Senor Numero Segundo Para Siempre aka Nairo.  Ya know if he was able to hang around and finally figure it out I think there'd be a lot fans giving him the lovin' he deserves for being so dawgawn dogged.

And what of us, I mean US?  Just gimme one day with Neilson or Sepp in a long break for the win... and if together in the break... oh I'd watch that over and over and over.

Back to my claim you won't have to watch it to get caught up in it... every single ride you do for the next 3 weeks will have a whole bunch a geeked up riders who fell asleep the night before watching Le Tour, which they'd already watched in the morning while fauxtending to be on a Zoom call, and they will have visions of glory under their Oakleys.

Just hang on... let 'em pull for glory until there ain't no more... and give 'em the Sagan afterburners for the win.

Then be sure and take a few days off because we all know La Vuelta es lo mejor!

What does lo mejor mean?  The best.

What's the best part of PEDALindustries?

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

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163..6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3989067579

THE YOUNG PRO PULLS THROUGH AND IMMEDIATELY FLICKS HIS SMOOTH ELBOW.  The wily veteran, with the wrinkly elbow, just laughs. And while these fun and games are going along...

... the ex-pro proceeds to mock us all...

Flying by at about 100mph, his aero aluminum antique chops through the air.  Like scared geese we lift off to chase.  I'm about 1000 guys back in no time.

It's an impressive move from a pretty cool cat who hung up the numbers to raise the kids and pay the bills.  I like this part of the ride, when we roll through his part of town and he reminds us all he squash us at his leisure.

Speaking of leisure, I overheard AE say that since he's moved to town he no longer wonders what he's going to do on Saturday because MG has taken over the job as cruise director and basically tells us all what we're going to do.

Speaking of MG, I was reminiscing when he first moved in and didn't know his DuraAce from his quick release.  The good ol' days, I could drop him at will. 

Speaking of Will, I saw him gathering a group of riders this morning doing something I am too selfish to do.  He's been rounding up guys that kinda ride and useta ride and wanna ride and patiently showing 'em cool routes around town.

Speaking of going around, I've noticed quite a few creaky bikes of late... some of them finding their way into our destination... and I've learned a sad truth.  With the incredible backlog of service in most shops people - the less mechanically inclined, like yours Diesely - are letting things go too long.  My fine friends, these little creaks can turn into irreparable damage.  Git yer bikes serviced at your local shop.

Speaking of bike service, if yer local you can make an appointment here:

https://pedalindustries.com/products/bikeshop-wrench-calendar

Yeah, I know it's really odd to make an appointment for your bike.  Even stranger to be met by the mechanic and taken care of within an hour or so - most of the time.  But, you know... we do things different over here. 

Speaking of over here... we've painted and scrubbed and beautified the unit next door.  We'll be there next week.

Speaking of next... at the end of next month we're going to be giving away 3 loaded with goodness RaceDay Bags™.  Have you entere?

Click here -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.6 lbs
Body Surf
6.5 hours sleep (stayed up late watching Euro Vision Song Contest with Surfergirl, my bike widow.)
https://www.strava.com/activities/3983267627

I FIND PEOPLE WANTING TO GIVE ME ADVICE ALL THE TIME.  Most of the time they have with zero experience in what I do.  Here's how I handle it.

The worst advice starts with Don't...

I say this for the very simple reason we can't see negatives.  Don't think of an elephant.  You see it right?  Ever heard this... Don't crash?

Did this have anything to do with the reporter who quizzed young Remco Evenepoel before his last race?

Don't you think the treacherous downhill will be a factor?

No, I do not think the treacherous course will be a factor.

Well... he came around a tight corner clipped his pedal on unmarked outcropping and fell off a bridge.  Pelvis broken.  Season over.

Yes!... I AM justsaying... ignore it, run from that wellmeaning fool.

Other bad advice begins with You should...

Now, if this is coming from your highly paid cycling coach regarding your cycling it's probably good.  If it's coming from your wellmeaning ________, do the opposite, especially if it's racing advice.

I had a wise old friend say you should just ride on feel. Go fast when you want, easy when you want.  Listen to your body. I was young and stupid so I listened.  Then I showed up to the next race and got shelled.

So there you have it.

Ignore the Don'ts  and Shoulds from those who shouldn't advise what they don't know.

Here's what I do know...

... next month the PEDALposse will be getting some very sweet gloves in the mail to match the very sweet socks they got this month.

If you're into getting sweet surprises and other goodness each month click here:

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

---

161.6 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3978230412

I HAVE THIS CONSTANT CURIOSITY ABOUT MY FELLOW RACERS, pretty much anybody I meet... and it goes like this...

When's your next big race?

Am I asking because I'm nosy?  Is it that I'm trying to find a training partner?  Or, perhaps figure out if we're going to be battling it out?

No.  

I'm just generally curious about what is driving them... and I'm always on the lookout for a new epic race.

Plus... I've found people with big challenges on the horizon are the people I relate to the most, they're de facto PEDALposse.

My friends at TBD Racing have one big race a year, and they all train for it together.  LoToJa.  A 200 mile blast from Utah to Wyoming.

My friend Tommy has done Leadville 10 years in a row.

My friend Chad loves to go to Sea Otter.

The big event is one of the things I believe in... not as a deity, but as part of the secret to lifelong fitness.

There are two others:  a weekly discipline and being an athlete.

I'm going to dive into all 3 of these in next month's Campfire Stories - the printed on real paper monthly letter I send to the PEDALposse along with a special gift.

If you're into that sorta thing... 

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

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163.4 lbs
Pullups/Pushups
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3975841462

WHEN I'M IN THE ZONE I LIKE TO GROOVE TO THE SAME SONG OVER AND OVER.  But, no headphones on the bike for me.   It's in my head.  Loud!

At work  this morning it was I Want You (She's So Heavy) by Los BayAhtLays.  Over and over and over.  

Was it because Coach Loran's video #6 destroyed me hours earlier?  So much balancing with a heavy focus on shoulders... 

... staring at the red blossom in my backyard, on 1 leg, bent over, doing reverse flies with weights my shoulders were firing.  But, I didn't let go even as the weight got heavier and heavier...

... all the while Loran is whispering Fnd your focal point.  

I was reminded of the power in having distant focal point again this evening... we were ripping single track on the gravel bikes and this trail had a number of skinny bridges - pic of one above.  

If there's one thing I've learned...

... do NOT...

... under any circumstances look at the bridge itself as you ride across...

...or worse...

... the perilous threats off the sides...

... panicking and crashing are nearly always the result.

Like Coach Loran's video #6, finding a focal point beyond the challenge is the proven path to success.

If you're into that kind of thing, then maybe you'd be into the PEDALposse.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3971337029

MY SON SHOWED UP FOR A BIKE RIDE TODAY.  I was excited to get him on a gravel bike for the first time, and he was looking forward to riding something other than a mountain bike. 

He brought his gear in a funny little back pack.

We changed.

As we're talking and putting on our socks I grab my shoes.

He grabs his... ooops!

No shoes...

... and I'm thinking, how could I gear him up with everything but the bike and not include a RaceDay Bag™?

What kind of dad am I?

We had a good laugh... just like old times. 

I loaned him some running shoes and mounted up some platform pedals.  Off we went... just a dad and his boy.

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

I'll probably get him this new design called the Royal Racer.  And, customize it with his name.  If you want to get one with your name or your kids name, let me know... I'll do Free personalization on any bag for the first person to raise their hand via an email.

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

You'll also get a bunch of entries into the lottery for the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

165.4 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3951358459

WHETHER OR NOT YOU BELIEVE IN THE FOOD PYRAMID, here's a pyramid you can believe in:  The Old Diesel's pyramid of power.

I came up with this years ago, and it's pretty simple.

Could you get more scientific?  For sure. 

Could a high level coach like Brian McCulloch or Jeanna Miller do better?  Yep.

Will this do in a pinch?  Be good enough for most?  Make a helluvalotta sense?  I think so, especially if you have no idea what you're doing.

The pyramid is 10-30-60.

10% of you time should be in the Imagonnadie range.

30% in the Icoulddothisforawhile range.

60% in the Icandothisalldaylong range.

Of course, I could break that down into heart rate and power zones. And, I might.  But, before I get there it's critical to think of this as big blocks vs every ride is 10-30-60.  For that my dear pedalertothemedaler would be assured failure... and it's precisely what most newriders do.

On just 2 of my days I'll hit that Imagonnadie effort.  For me, that's Tuesday and Saturday.  And even then, it's only a fraction of the ride.  Let's say I'm riding 10 hours a week.  That means no more than 1 hour total will be in the Imagonnadie/redzone/zone5... for me that's north of 175bpm.

By default I'll also pick up a fair amount of Icoulddothisforawhile miles on the way up and way down to maximum effort.  The other place I'll get that is on Wednesdays.  Wednesdays are my tempo days, and they're usually dirt days as well.

The other days of the week I'll be at the Icandthisalldaylong pace.  Easypeasy miles.  The ones most fools skip.  I get these miles in on Monday and Friday for sure... warming up and cooling down on Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday... and if I ride Thursday.

More than half of my time is in zone1 and zone2.

What few understand or know is that it's in zone2 that your body will build more capillaries, not in 3, 4 or 5.  It's in zone1 that your body recovers and can actually get stronger.

For most of you wily veterans of wheel this is a ho-hum review... but, you might find it a helpful way to share with the newriders.

Tomorrow is Tuesday... and if you read last Wednesday ya might recall I was a little hacked off with myself for being a wheelsucker that last few weeks/months.  I went easy today.  I skipped my usual 2-3 mile Sunday walk in the sand yesterday. 

Right now I gotta getta to sleep.

Because we all know tomorrow we gotta ride hard!

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

You can get this shirt, delivered!, for a mere 20 bones.

Or a lot less if you're a member of the PEDALposse.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse

You'll also get a bunch of entries into the lottery for the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

165 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3959446037