HERE ARE MY TO 3 REASONS NOT TO GET A GRAVEL BIKE: 

1. You don't want new adventures in your life.
2. You like the limited options of a road bike and/or MTB.

Top 10 reasons to get a gravel bike:

1. You love riding road, and want to get away from cars.
2. You love riding road, and want to improve your dirt skills.
3. You love riding road, and want to expand the route options around town.
4. You love riding road, and want to jump curbs.
5. You love riding road, and want a play bike for easy days.
6. You love riding dirt, and want to ride to it faster.
7. You love riding dirt, and want add road skills to your repertoire.
8. You love riding dirt, and want a new challenge.
9. You love riding dirt, and have a lot of smooth trails and gravel roads.
10. You love riding dirt, and want to ride more of it.

Explaining the fun of gravel riding has been challenging to say the least.  I'm not sure why that it is.  Maybe it's because those who know me know I'm a little off to begin with, know that I tend to see things differently, have my own quirky approrach to life.

I dunno.

All I do know is... if I had to choose just one bike, it'd be the gravel bike.

You know the old joke... jack of all trades, master of none?  

Well, the gravel bike is jack of all rides, master of fun.  I don't know why that is, exactly.  Is it the wrongness of fatish tires on the road?  Drop bars on the dirt?  But, I do know...

... if you're into adventure and big smiles, gravel is a lock.

For fairly obvious reasons I named this bike The Highlighter... and it's often the highlight of my day.

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

Because it will take you to places like this

Which just might be a lot closer to home than you think...

... and that's a pretty cool thing....

... to find out there's a whole other network of roads and trails that are too tame for MTB and too challenging for road.. just right for a morning jaunt or an all day escape.

Gimme a jingle when you're ready... in the meantime check it out:

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

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

---

163.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
9 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3951358459

THERE'S A SECRET SKILL WE DEVELOP AS ALLCONSUMED CYCLISTS SQUEEZING EVERY MOMENT OUT OF LIFE: 

The milestime continuum.

This is where, unlike normal humans, we are able to calculate how long it takes to ride somewhere down to the second.  And, equally powerful, we are able to end our rides at exactly the right time.

Which is exactly what I was doing this morning while falling further in love with my new BMC URS...

... I wanted to stop at my happy place, Trabuco General Store, 2 hours in, for a Mexican Coke and a Mexican popcicle...

... it was so hot and I was in a bad way.

I pulled up and saw a gent and his sweet BMW moto.

That's a beautiful bike.  Have you taken it up on Saddleback?

Yes, it's not as good as it looks on that dirt.

Well, it look like a lot of fun,

It is... do you ride?

I used to, in the desert, with the kids.  But, not lately.

Just two dudes geeking out on two wheeled stuff.

I go in, gather my supplies.  Note, I've been doing this routine a couple of times a month for nearly 20 years.  So, when I go to pay and realize I've forgotten my RaceDay wallet and their ApplePay isn't working and I ask...

Do you trust me?

No.

... I'm slightly hacked off, but mainly sad... that sad you get when you've been melting in the heat because you started late because you wanted to hang out with the fam even though you knew it was going to be a scorcher and now you've got miles to go with no sustenance kinda sad.

Dejected, I squat on the bench and think why not?

Do you have Venmo?

No.

Darn... I forgot my wallet and...

No problem.

5 minutes later we're at the same table and we proceed to male bond over motos and bicycles and living in the foothills and raising kids and what we do for work and ...

Last year I rode from here to Yellowstone.  1018 miles.

How many days?

1.

That's incredible.

Where did you ride your bike from?

San Clemente, mostly on dirt roads.

That's incredible.

I guess the point of all this is it's just darn hard not to love people who get around on 2 wheels.

But, I know you're wondering how I'm going to pay Leo if he doesn't have Venmo? 

Well we also talked about the book I'm currently reading Zen and The Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.  That seems like a better thing than a few dollars... especially for a guy like Leo, an engineer and rider of huge distances.

Of course this messed up my larger plans for the day, requiring an adjustment in the milestime continuum... speeding up and shortening the distance.

One thing for ya gotta have this time of year is the big bottles.

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

These are my favorites... special topsecret coating shields the bottle's innards, it's like drinking from glass.

$20 for 2, free shipping.

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

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

---

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

I THINK ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ASPECTS OF PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE IS UNHEALTHY LEVELS OF COMPLETELY IRRATIONAL EXPECTATIONS.

Take our customer Dallas. 

He calls up today... 

Todd, I turned 70 this week and I rode 70 miles.  Can you believe that?

Yes...

None of my friends get it.  I picked up this bike thing a few years ago.

Well...

But, my new riding buddies get it.  They even rode with me, and had a nice birthday cake surprise at the end.  Can you believe that?

Heckyes I can believe that!

Ask most sexagenarians if they'll be able to ride 70 miles on their 70th birthdays and they'll think you're crazy. 

It's not irrational to think you can ride 70 miles on your 70th... it's irrational to think this wonderful gift of a human body isn't made for it, it's irrational to think that letting yourself go is the way to go, it's irrational to think being out of shape is going to have you in shape when the grim reaper comes knocking.

I see all these severely out of shape people ripping around on ebikes thinking they are doing a body good.

Fools!

I mean... it's good to get outside, get away from the dawgawn screens that captivate our turningtojelly minds, yeah... that's all good. 

But...

... it's irrational to think you can't do a helluva a lot more...

... and downright pathetic.

I suppose I should put a disclaimer in here for all all the reasons an ebike is acceptable - like Parkinson's, etc.  And that's true, there is a place.

But...

... well this reminds me of a story my deardead dad told me about trying to decide between a MercedesBenz and a Porsche - he was single and trying to score a lady, and it worked, then he got a famvan - the Porsche salesman said this...

Yes, the Benz is nice but if you have the balls to really drive and live dangerously there's nothing like a Porsche!

... to which I say...  

The ebike is nice, but if you have the balls to go for maximum health there's nothing like racing a bicycle under your own Godgiven power!

Can I get an Amen?

In honor of Dallas turning 70 and riding 74 miles, who changed his life there's a promo on the changing poncho... 'cause guess what Dallas bought himself for his bday?

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

Yeah... you know he's committed to driving to races and great rides if he's getting the extra famous PEDALindustries changing poncho.

Use promo code:  DALLAS

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

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

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3945713684

THE FIRST RIDE ON A NEW BIKE IS LIKE ___________?

First kiss?

A first date?

Wedding night?

There's so much build up... and no matter how much research you've done, how many people you've talk to, how persuasive the brochures are... you're really not sure what you've gone and done right thing.

As alluring as the shiny paint and fancy wheels an all the other bells and shifters are, there's always a bit of trepidation before that first ride.

What if it's not a bundle of awesomeness?

What if we aren't a match?

What if....

Such were my thoughts tonight as I took my first pedals on my new BMC URS (unrestricted).

I'll do a full write up after I get a proper bike fit.  For now, let's just say...

... I got lucky! 

There will be a lot of fast graveling.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-fast-curved-bill?variant=10683321516068

if I was to get a tattoo this would be it.  RIDE FAST right across my knuckles.  Until I do, this is one of my go to hats.

It ships free.

Yep for a mere 20 bones you can prep your significants for the inevitable tattoo.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-fast-curved-bill?variant=10683321516068

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

---

163.6 lbs
Morning Surf
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3943403778

IF YOUR NAME IS JEFF AND YOU COME FOR A VISIT WE COULD DO A KILLER GRAVEL RIDE.  Like today, where we pounded a bunch of bird beaks... and heard the sadvoice yelp for help.

Do you have to be named Jeff?... no, but it's definitely trending. 

Does it have to be a grave ride?... no, but why not?

... But, T.O.D. you live in a surf town, with lots of pavement and bike lanes, and ripping single track how can you have good gravel too?...

I know.  It's a heavy burden.  But, it's all true.  We have a lot of good gravel adventuring around here... and 2 out of 2 Jeffs highly recommend it.

If you've got the guts, I'll take you on an epic like today - link below.

But, beware the bird beaks!...

... these nasty things can create all sorts of havoc - torn tires, cracked rims, burped air pressure - but, generally they're easy to avoid.

What is a bird beak?

It's a rock buried in our hard as cement clay dirt with 1-3 inches sticking up.  They'd don't give at all when you hit 'em, just a giant shockwave up through your extremities and out the vents in your helmet or your mouth in the form of Ouweeeee!

Chris, The Wrench, joined us... it's always good to bring the chief mechanic along.  But, how could a man of his skills could be so hilariously unlucky?

There we were, 4 hours into our ride.  We'd covered 50ish miles and just under 5000' of vert.  Oh, and it was nearly 100 degrees. 

Even though we'd stopped for the traditional Mexican popsicles and Coke... It's possible we were slightly fatigued.

I mean, that'd be normal right?

Anyway, we'd just cleared a section of bird beaks and were winding our way through a thicket when the clay turned to sand. 

I made it.

Jeff made it.

Chris... Chris?... Chris... you okay?

Note, it's rarely a good sign when you think you heard a crash, you call out for your pal, and you hear nada.

Chris... ya alright?

No.

I have to imagine at that moment The Wrench is thinking something like this...

Howtheheck'd I get here?
How'm I gonna explain it?
Is anything broken?
Are ants crawling all over me??????!!!!!!!

I'm not even guessing on that last part.  

These things are generally very funny when nothing is terribly amiss.  But, you tell me... ever seen anything like this?

He's landed in such away that the bike was wedged in the branches and pinning him down... on top of a very busy ant colony!

Of course, you wondering... will he ever walk again?... and that's a big hellyeah! many a customer had their twowheeled lovers serviced by him today.

A big phew on that!

I meet a lot of great people out riding or bond to them through riding.  Jeff and I met way back in college, but really bonded later over bikes.  Chris and I met after he joined the PEDALposse and moved to town.

Do you have to join the PEDALposse to do any of the above?

No, but you should...

... and if you haven't clicked the link lately, I think we're better at explaining what it's all about.

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

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3937464640

IT ALL STARTED NICE ENOUGH, like the dueling banjos of Deliverance.  Just a couple of yahoos on the front of the group half wheeling each other, egging each other to sprint it out... only thing is we weren't a sprinting we was just hustlin up the road to catch the B's.

But those yokels kept at it.

From light to light, corner to corner.

And The Old Diesel started to get a little tuckered.

Soon 'nuf, the ride's over and we've all gone our separate ways and I'm slogging along all by my lonesome... like that feller whos wonderin what jus happend?

Only it goes back a few months now, maybe... years?

Whenthehell did I go from hungry hound out for the kill to some hootenanny wheel sucking his way to mediocrity?  

Is there a worse feeling than this... than the feeling that ya just spent the whole, entire workout on the defensive... playing it safe... on a group ride!  Fer crying outloud... that's a shame is what it is.

It was those damd dueling banjos... those young guns hitting it hard at every opportunity.  

To which I can only say one thing.

There's gonna be some pig squealing next week.

But, there won't be an chain squealing because I've found me a new wax based lube that I luuuuuuuv.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

The thing I like about this lube... besides the fact that it's a wax, because I love waxbased lubes... it lasts a long time, and the bottle is just perfect.  The nozzle is about the same width as a chain link.  I just rest it on the chain and hit each link one at a time and it seems to drop just the right amount to coat each and every link.

If you haven't heard of Wend here's the downlow.  This product is created by Ryan Dahl who's family owns the largest surf wax manufacturing company in the world, famously known as Sticky Bumps.  Ryan is the bike racer in the family, and he used the company's resources to develop this top notch product.

I know it's cliche to say made by bike racers for bike racers... lame!... but it's not... it's made by surfers for bike racers... and we all know crosspollination is where it's at!

Use promo code:  WEND

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

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

---

165 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3931479877

WHAT COULD YOU EXPECT FROM A TEAM OF NORTH AMERICAN COWBOYS?  Not one single person on the 1986 7-11 bicycle racing team had a lick of Tour de France experience.  Not the riders.  Not the directors.  Not the owners...

... and not the bicycle manufacturer, Murray.

But, they weren't even Murrays.

No, what these cowboys were riding into town were custom built frames by soontobe famous Ben Serrotta. Ben got no credit.  Murray, the team sponsor ponied up to be on that frame.

How good were they?  Good enough for Alex Steida to rope the first yellow jersey by any North American.  Yep, and at the peak of Lemond's hayday.  In fact, Lemond would be the first North American to win the Tour de France that same year.

And... I reckon that's a good way to prove the point that it's what's on the inside that counts.

Nobody knew the truth.

Nobody knew how well American criterium racing would pay off for the team.

Nobody knows I'm doing push ups and pull ups tonight.

Nobody knows I'm saying no to Chick-fil-a right now, even though it smells so good and my daughter keeps offering me some of her shake.

Nobody knows...

...  exactly what the PEDALposse is all about except those who check it out.

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

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

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch and Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3926596531

I WAS THINKING ABOUT THE DIFFERENT TSHIRTS WE'VE PRINTED UP IN THE LAST YEAR... probably because some troll made this uninformed comment on a fun video we made:

Instead of making fun of people like that, put your efforts into helping them be better prepared for riding or racing !!!

And, I'm thinking... Oh my dear little clueless troll... what do you think we are doing every, single, day?

What trollypoo missed is the focus of the video was this guy getting geeked up on our product and making fun of himself!

But, back to our message(s) which I crammed into the above graphic... it's really our (mine and yours) message to the world.

It's not a panacea... but, it's a helluva good place to start... and a lot of fun...

... like this video:

https://vimeo.com/447237703

If you happen to get inspired by that cinematic masterpiece and want to get a RaceDay Bag™ for yourself or a friend...

Use this promo code:  OURMESSAGE

... and add a t-shirt for Free.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

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

---

163.6 lbs
Stretch and Roll
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3923516697

IN OLD TIME MOVIES THE ACTORS WOULD GO FROM FLIRTATIOUS TO DISHEVELED IN BED SMOKING A CIGARETTE signaling they'd just had a good roll in the sack.  Around these parts, bike riders go from kitted up to disheveled and mowing down pastries chugging their favorite liquid... signaling we've just had a good roll through the citycountrytrails.

It's a favorite ritual of mine, and I like it alone.

On Saturdays.

After goodbyes.

Recently I found a place with bomb breakfast burritos.  So much more than a waif pastry.  

I order... well first I make sure to grab my chair and table on the busy sidewalk...

A blondie always asks Traditional or vegan.

It feels a little like a question of morals...

Traditional.

It's only a question of calories for me.

Then I wait... longer than you'd think.  But, I enjoy the anticipation.  Do they make them from scratch when ordered or just heat up something made earlier in the day?  Don't know, don't care.  It's that good.

Today as I was savoring my burro, I met P.  He's a government contractor who cares for the wounded from Los Altos to Pendleton to San Diego.  Super good dude.

Where'd you ride?

Up here and over there.

I used to ride a lot... never could get comfortable with the shoes and being locked in.

Yeah, it's tricky.

Now I swim.

After a good while chatting and people watching - I find tourists to be highly entertaining - I head home.

At some point, I realize my wallet is missing.

This isn't just any wallet.  It's my RaceDay wallet, and I know there's no way it fell out of my jersey.  I check everywhere around the house.  Nada.  Then it hits me... I must have left it at my stop.  And I'll bet good ol' P found it and turned it.

High Tide Coffe, this is Nick.

Hi Nick, it's Todd... I think

Hey brother, I have your wallet.

See ya in 5.

I pull up on my scooter.

Nick?

Todd.

Yeah, thanks so much.

Who found it?

Bethany, it was on the chair.

High Tide Coffe... good burritos, great morals!

I guess the only negative on the RaceDay wallet is it's made from bicycle inner tubes and it's a little hard to see.  On, and it's super soft.  And quiet.  Meaning, if you lay it down on a black chair while eating an amazing breakfast burrito you might forget it after being in culinary euphoria.

But, that's it.

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

I know a lot riders prefer a sandwich baggie or some other plastic thingy to carry some cash, ID, and CCs... but, there's really no comparison.

Use promo code:  HIGHTIDE

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

---

162 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3918273749

CONCURRENTLY, SOME OF MY RECOMMENDED SUMMER READING HAS INCLUDED TWO BOOKS THAT TOUCHED ON THE POWER OF AFFIRMATIONS.  Affirmations are kinda weird, and near as I can tell nobody is quite sure what is going on... but, I've had unusual experiences, and I know I'm not alone.

Here are a few examples:  

A while back I was a pretty decent MTB XC racer but mainly because I was exceptionally fast downhill.  I remember thinking how cool it would be to have a racecourse that was just the downhill part of XC... a few years later Super-D was born, and I was winning Nationals.

Not long ago, I had the goal of beating the perennial champ at LoToJa.

Then, last year my outrageous goal of besting my 20 year old PR at Leadville.

Coincidence?  Luck?

One explanation explored in each book was that affirmations give your subconscious something to work on and you start to notice things that would help you accomplish your goal...key point, acting on those things.

I think that's probably true.

The other superpower(?) I think affirmations can give us that neither book touched on is confidence.  I've noticed that when truly big goals start to become real I can get nervous and start to doubt myself.  But, when I've been steadily affirming my goals I'm significantly more confident as the changes begin to take place.

At least half of ya are thinking Bullsheets and no doubt the other half want to know the mechanics of how to do it... and I'm not even sure half of you are correct.

So before y'all go hating on me or begging me for the secret sauce... here's a quote from our young local Kevin Vermaerke who today announced he'll be racing with Team Sunweb next year:

"Taking the step up to the WorldTour is something I have been dreaming about and working towards since I first started cycling."

... that's all there is to it.

What are you dreaming about?

I'm dreaming about a few new kit designs... if you dream of designing new kits, then make sure you're signed up in...

... the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway...

and if you are signed up be sure and share it to increase your odds of winning over $1500 in product and cash.

---

163 lbs
SurfSesh with my ladies
7.5 hours sleep
No ride today.

MY FRIEND RB POSTED UP SOMETHING AND IT GOT ME THINKING ABOUT THE TWO TYPES OF PEOPLE I LIKE.  Don't get me wrong, I love everybody... but there's a helluva a big difference between liking and loving.  And I don't like a lot of people.

But, I do like athletes and hard workers.

There are my people... the people I get, understand and want to hang around with.

It's partly a respect thing... I respect people who take care of their bones and flesh, regularly ringing out their best.  I respect people who have a dream or passion or vision and are getting after making their best contribution.

I don't respect sloth.

Nor do I like it.

Does this make me a bad person?  Probably.  Do I care.  Not really.

There are plenty of hardworking athletes like RB to keep me endlessly fascinated with what's possible in life.  

Just like I'm endlessly fascinated with PRs

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

If you're into PRs, you might want to use this promo code:  PRsRule.

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

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

---

162.6 lbs
SurfSech
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3909872148

YES, THE GREAT EDDY MERCKX KEPT CYCLING EXCELLENCE SIMPLE WITH HIS FAMOUS PILES OF MILES method.  But, don't be fooled into thinking riding and only riding will make you a better rider.  It's  critical to have a number 2, too.

Almost any number 2 will work for the simple fact that cycling is such a limited range of motion.

If you haven't done a few sprints around the field catching a frisbee lately... or done any kind of side to side accelerations, you're gonna be in for a big shock when you go to show off your superfitness.  Sure, you'll outlast everybody... and the next day you'll feel like you've been in a car wreck, or worse, you might actually be in traction of some sort - like my bro-in-law who tore his achilles at the family turkey bowl.

Such is the nature of this greatest, numberonest sport of ours.

It's awesomely limited.

Meaning you've got to have a number 2, and almost anything will do.

I like surfing and paddleboarding for the the balance and core work and upperbody strength.  My pal JC plays tennis.  PV still does all his gymnastics.  NM likes her running and hiking. AS does serious construction on his house.  

The list is endless.

There's another benefit besides better overall strength and fitness.  Number 2 will work on your brain.   Giving you new ways to solve problems on the bike - you'll see things different.  When the bike training gets a little stale - and it does - you can increase your number 2 and keep your fitness.

This year I've added a number 3, which has made numbers 1 and 2 even better... coach Loran has helped make my core much stronger and I see the results standing on the pedals for long periods of time while I climb, in my stability when sprinting, and my ability to pop up fast when surfing.

We work out live at 7am on Wednesday mornings... you can join us on Instagram.

Or, you can use the Coach Loran exclusive videos that are part 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
Coach Loran Live
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3905260995

NOBODY GETS ELON'S SPACE-X LIKE WE DO.  For example, the final minute of our terrible penultimate climb is called Blastoff.  While I was more of a bottle rocket than a 4ofJuly today, I had nonetheless begun my countdown hours before.

Like a real astronaut.

Because our arena of competition is so vast - the entire planet Earth! - we have weird things no other sports have.  First timer BL reminded me of this on the ride.

Meet me at the corner at 602.

That's a weird time.

I know, but that's when we get there and you don't want to be late or you'll miss the ride which leaves at 625.

Of course, for brevity, I left out a whole bunch of other minute markers.

Dinner by 7.

Prep bike and bottles.

PJs by 9.

Stretch and roll.

Sleep by 930.

Wake up 5.

Dressed by 530.

Out the door by 538.

Meet the locals at 550.

All of which when done right gets me to the launch pad on time, to be reminded of all the sinning I did last night eating pizza and wings and ice cream with my childrens.

None of which would be any fun if the rest of posse wasn't doing their own countdowns... getting their spacesuits on, putting Tang in their bottles, air in their tires...

... yeah, Elon, you're cool... but we're launching multiple times a week.

You know what else we're launching?... our retail kits.  We have a very limited selection of inventory.  I expect this will sell out, but don't let it worry your pretty little helmetcovered head.   We're making more all the time.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/instock-kits

These are our famous Speed Jerseys and Pro Bibs.

I shouldn't do a promo code, because I know they're going to sell out.  In fact, I won't. But... if you're a really clever girl, you may have remembered the secret code that always works - SAVE10... don't tell JJ, my CFO... keep it on the downlow.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/instock-kits

---

165 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/389796963

EVERY NOW AND THEN I COME UP WITH SOME KOOKY BODY HACK TO LOSE WEIGHT.  Sometimes it’s something I’ve read or heard about, sometimes it’s just the mad scientist in me.  The inspirations generally come in the Fall, when the riding is down and the waistline is widening.  It’s this time of year when the weirdness pops up and strikes.

Previous hacks include:

The Excedrin PM Diet – eat normally* and take a few PMs around 9 to knock yourself out and not be getting up to eat in the middle of the night.

The Drink A Lot of Water Diet – drink enough water and you end up eating less because sometimes you think you’re hungry when your actually thirsty.

The Yogurtland Diet – eat normally during day, have a tiny dinner with a trip to Yogurtland as a reward.

The Sardines and Beans Diet – start the day off with a can of sardines and 1/2 a can of black beans… the key is to go big protein to get the day started.

The King-Queen-Prince Diet – this is a giant breakfast, decent lunch and puny dinner before 7… this is probably the healthiest and the one I fail at most easily.

The Salad For Dinner Diet – eat normally and have a giant salad for dinner… I like this one the most, but I’m lazy and don’t always want to make a giant vegetable salad.

With a few races looking likely... Is it time for… The Haagen Dazs Diet? – giant bowl of oatmeal with nuts and fruit for breakfast, mid-day snack, a protein laden lunch at 3pm, and a pint of Haagen Dazs just before bed.

Don’t laugh, they all work.

They may not all be healthy,

But they sure are fun.

Almost as fun as busting out the RaceDay wallet... because it is made from real bicycle innertube and always makes me smile.

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

This is the best ride wallet ever for one very simple reason:  it stays put in my jersey pocket.

There's something about the grippiness of the tube against the jersey that keeps it so secure.  

If you're looking for a very stealthy wallet, that is perfect for riding, and unlike anything your nonriding pals pull out, this is the ticket.

We can also make them for your race team, or any organization.

Use promo code SAVE10.

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

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

---

163.4 lbs
Stretch and Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3892974624

SOME OF YA MAY KNOW THE STORY OF THE WIDOW'S MITE.  That's not what this is, this is about the widow's might... specifically my bike widow's might.  Too many a Saturday starts with me out early for a long bike ride and ends up with me comatose on the couch.

So I changed things up.

Took my widow to the mountains for some DH runs, then camping and stargazing.  No cell service could be the best thing ever... nothing to do but talk and listen and appreciate this beautiful planet.

At dawn, I snuck out.  Set up for some breaky... read till the sun hit my pages and warmed up enough for her to stick her head out.

Time to hike.

We found the PCT, often referred to as the Perfect Cycling Trail... though the Pacific Crest Trail is anything but bike friendly or legal.  Still.. it is a beautiful trail and would make for a great ride.

A funny thing happens when you drive a van around with huge bike related logo in the middle of the forest... random riders ask for help.  I felt like a regular mobile bike mechanic.

First up, young Jake needed a #2 allen to tighten his shock actuator.

Second, old Ryan who had ridden his brand new bike for a total of 5 minutes and busted the chain.  He's knew to the sport, and I explained that while it had been at least 10 years since I'd had a chain break... in the early days of MTB riding you'd never, ever venture off without a chain breaker because a busted chain was a regular occurrence.  Had him patched up in no time.

And this is where the widow's might comes in... I'm just happy to help... and before Ryan can leave she's all 

Dude, do you know about the race day bag?

So, I grab mine and 'xplain it.

He grabs his and proceeds to make a great demo video... all marketing masters would say I'm committing a bozonono by sending you away to watch this video because you might not come back and read the rest of this riveting post about the widow's might... but, who cares... this is good stuff, just clic the pic.

https://vimeo.com/446362488

Now, it's possible she would have done that anyway...

... but I dunno...

... she's pretty into me right now...

... and that's mighty worth it.

You know what else is worth it don't you... mocking everybody who busts out a duffle bag for their riding gear, or worse... LOL... a trash bag!

If you are not yet converted to our evil ways... well, shame on you!... either use this code SAVE10 or get your buns over to The Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

? lbs
Relax
9 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3889038813

MOUNTAIN BIKING FOR DUMMIES

TODAY WAS LIKE STEPPING INTO THE BATTING CAGE, but for mountain bikes.  All I could think of was my one friend in town who always says I'm not going with you, you're too fast.

Whether or not that is true, one thing is for sure... there is no better place to improve MTB handling skills than at a ski resort.

Hop on the lift, survey the mountain, reflect on the previous run, do it again.

Want proof?

I got none.

Except this... the first few runs I was quite rusty.  Not feeling it.  Trepidatious.  The soil is much sandier than home, the light was different... and TBH, I taint been shreddingthegnar much lately.

And, don’t tell her, but riding with Surfergirl requires totally different moves.  A  lit’l slow.  After a few runs, she was ready for a break which meant it was time the The Old Diesel to open it up a bit.

Within another run I found my MTB legs.

The next run was even better.

I got to know the mountain, the soil, figuring out the most funnestest run... and ripping it over and over.

That’s the point.

You can’t really do that with any other bike racing skill... except maybe at the track, which would probably bore me to death.  Me being me.

The downhill part of a mountain bike race is a lot like a sprint.  Guts and speed make a big difference.

And with the lift... you get to practice miles and miles of descending in just a couple of hours... plus, the whole time you’re pretty fresh.

Speaking of fresh... my nethers are doing quite fine after taking my own advice from yesterday... thankyouverymuch...

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup

While I won't be needing the PR Lotion to keep up with 'er, I'm including it with the promotion...

Use promo code:  COMMIT

And when you order anything from the link below the 2nd item will be 30% savings.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup

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

---

163.6 lbs
Relax
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3884913519

TOMORROW SURFERGIRL AND I ARE GOING TO AN MTB PARK - her choice - and I expect to find some steep entries.  These are often preceded by a gentle ho-hum trail... only it looks like the trail ends and you're going to go flying off into the tree tops.

The natural thing to do is roll slow... then you have a choice...

... stop because you're unsure...

... or roll with confidence...

... what you cannot do, EVER!, is think about it with one wheel over the edge or worse both wheels.

You must commit to quit or ride it out.

If you commit to ride it you have one (1) objective...

... to stay laserfocused on the trail ahead.

Do not look down.
Do not try and stop.
Do not look at all the boulders and other hazzards... the shiz that can do ya in.

Your vision must be only on the trail, on the goal, on the prize.

Feel free to apply liberally to any and all quests for greatness.

You know what else I'll be applying liberally tomorrow?

Chamois Butt'r, for a coupla reasons.  One, I hoping they have a great burger/bbq so she can eat and I can shred a little longer.  Two, after we ride we'll be driving up to Big Bear Lake for some RnR... in other words, no shower right after.

I've found a healthy dollop of the Butt'r to be excellent at protecting my special purpose on those days I taint gonna be hitting the shower right quick.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup

While I won't be needing the PR Lotion to keep up with 'er, I'm including it with the promotion...

Use promo code:  COMMIT

And when you order anything from the link below the 2nd item will be 30% savings.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup

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

---

165 lbs
Stretch N Roll
7.6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3878789094

RIDE LONG ENOUGH AND YOUR BELOVED XYZ IS GONNA BE SHELVED.  And, it's gonna stench and be quite a shock.  Like having your lover move on out.  Unannounced.

For the 2nd year in a row my goto pedals have been phased out...

... left me single...

... and there tain't no Tinder for forlorn cyclists.

That's the bad news.

The good news is...

... there's a reason the old the is old, it's old.

There are a lot of new options.

Fortunately, Chris The Wrench had a set of Durace ace pedals to take dancing tonight.

Like all good blind dates, I was a bit nervous..   But, within a few minutes I felt dramatically more connected to the bike... like a lot.

So, of course, I threw out the Imgoingslowtonight and stomped around on 'em a bit.

It's just a first date, but I'll be dawgawned if I didn't feel a bit of chemistry.

Kinda feels like I got lucky tonight.

Are you looking for some luck?... maybe a snappy, lucky green tshirt is just what you need... made from our softest cotton, printed with special inks you cannot feel... 

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

... and cut to fit an athlete's body, like yours.  

Get it now with this code: LuckyGreen

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

---

163.2lbs
Stretch N Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3876434455

I'D LIKE TO ROLL OUT, meet the posse at the corner.  Go  through town and have all the crazy cats that ride bikes join us in a big train.  Roadies, gravelers, MTBrs, beach cruisers, commuters, BMXrs... boys and girls, olduns and younguns... all of ya's!

... and just ride...

... to nowhere in particular...

... maybe a big park, with a healthysized barbecue, and hire Cat Stevens to come sing with us.

I can't imagine a better group of people.  

Can you?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace

When Joe designed this kit I couldn't tell what was below the word PEACE.

What is that Joe?

It's peace in every language.

Ah... yes, of course.

I've been wearing this kit a lot lately, 

Now I've been happy lately
Thinking about the good things to come
And I believe it could be
Something good has begun
Oh, I've been smiling lately
Dreaming about the world as one
And I believe it could be
Someday it's going to come.
- Cat Stevens, Peace Train

Maybe we'll do a Peace Train ride soon... maybe you need this promo code to push yourself over the edge: PEACE

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

165lbs
Coach Loran Live today
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3871222528

ABOUT THIS TIME OF YEAR, it's never the same day, we have our unOFFICIAL TMWC which, for me, is just a helluva an excuse to rally the troops to get outta bed very early and race around our course with us.

Our numbers go from 30ish to 100+.

We don numbers.

Raise money for the local high school MTB teams.

Set PRs and course records.

But, more than anything else we look into each others and see more than Strava could ever tell us.  We see our friends, We see ourselves.  We see the goodness that we represent... mostly dudes, a few ladies... hard working, family loving... people that care about each other, and who I've personally counted on in tough times.

It's our religion I guess.

And I'll miss it this year.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT US?  About when we see another rider?  It's so weird.  Anytime I'm driving around town and I see another rider in a proper kit and I'm like... Do I know that cat?

I can't help it.

Sometimes it's embarrassing.

Surfergirl is like... Do you know that cat?

Most of the time I don't, but more than you'd expect I do.  If that makes sense.  

I guess what I'm trying to explain is we have this inner bikedar and it goes like this...

Do I know that cat?  
Yes/No?  

Do I like that cat?
Yes/No?

What kinda bike is that?
Rad/Bad?

Can I beat that cat?
Probably/No way?

... in a matter of seconds we determine if we know somebody, scan their gear, size up their talent, and file it away... and the best part is nobody, and I mean nobody else in the car even has a clue of what we're up to... hahaha!

So, when we were at the beach tonight having a little family BBQ on a stretch of sand that is heavily traveled by all sorts of riders... and I'm just chatting away with the family... and my bikedar starts beeping like crazy, I look up and see all my pals heading home the group ride, and I quickly do that calculations...

Yes
Yes
Rad
Probably

I don't think any other sport is quite as nutty as this... because what other sport do you see people practicing as you go about your life?

I dunno.

But, I do know that the Knog bells are just outstanding with a quality sound and a very stylish look.  This time of year with all the peeps along our bike trails they come in darn handy.

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

If you're in need of one of these gems, we've got a few in stock and can ship them right away.

Use promo code: BIKEDAR

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

164 lbs 
Stretch N Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3863650030

ABOUT 100 YEARS AGO I READ IN VELOSNOOZE AN INTERVIEW WITH THE GREAT KENT BOSTICK.  He was prepping for the '96 Olympics at the ancient age of 43.  I was 30ish and all ears, wanting to be fast again some day... as my dadbod expanded like my hero Fred Flintstone's.

What could it be?

Surely it was impossible, nothing a mere mortal could do. 

Four years prior, in the middle of summer, on a hot Utah plain, I saw Kent decimate the pro field in a road race all by his lonesome... I was there to pick up some points towards the realm of a lowly Cat 2... he was there for the cash.  A pro.  Nearly 40.

It was unheard of.

So was going to the Olympics at his age, and the national news picked up on the story.

Even Velosnooze couldn't foul up this interview.  They were drooling over themselves for this exclusive, and from what I could tell then Kent was just a humble dude who loved racing and wasn't ready to give it up.

So... here's the secret:

VN Kent how have you stayed in shape all these years, and kept the fire going.

KB Well, I really like racing... and I ride hard twice a week year round.

VN What about the off season.

KB There is no off season.

And that stuck in my mind like Excalibur in the stone.  The very idea that simply riding hard twice a week could hold off father time was so simple, even I could do it. 

And I did.

Rarely has a week passed that I haven't ridden hard on Tuesday and hard again on Saturday.  And, I've found to be rather magical.

We call our ride the TMWC (Tuesday Morning World Championships), and have a lot of fun with it.  Check it outl

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc

One of the guys ordered an XL kit only to realize he's a medium, doh!... so, if you're looking for an exceptional XL kit at 40% off shoot me an email quickly... there's onl 1 of these.

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163 lbs 
Pullups/Pushups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3858530251

I HAVE 2 MODES WHEN IT COMES TO BIKE PREP.  One I'll do tonight, the other I hope to do sooner rather than later.

One is shameful.

One is zenful.

Tonight's bike prep will be a quick check of the tire pressure and drivetrain freshness.  It's late, I wanna hit the hay.

The other is the day before a race bike prep... A full detail, going over every single part.  Checking for anything loose or worn out.  Anything that could fail.

One is often rushed.

The other is slow, careful and thoughtful.

When you want to hurry something that means you no longer care about it.
- Robert Pirsig

One thing I never want to hurry is my recovery which involves stretching and rolling and sleep and food... and which I'll cover in my next CampFire stories, which is part of the PEDALposse.

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

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.8 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248

EVERYBODY RACES.  Because everybody loves the feeeeeeeling, the sensaaaaaation of having a future that's better than their past.

Let that sink in.

Deep.

A few of my friends have been laid up this year, their racing back to full health.  Some others have never pinned a number or ridden in a group, but I pitty the fool who tries to beat them to the top of the hill.  All my pals are uploading as soon as they get home to see if they got any cups.  Many of us live, truly live, for the next big epic race.

Why just this morning Chris donkeykicked up the last climb.

I dig that... because I'm already hatching a plan to pay him back next ride.

That plan hatchery is what I'm talking about.  It's what makes saying no to cake and ice cream easypeasy.  It makes doing push ups and pull ups before jumping in the shower seem normal.  

Sometimes, a lot more lately, I have to redefine the race... adjust to circumstances I can't control... but I never start the day without a race in mind.

I guess it's why I love this hat so much...

http://www.pedalindustries.com/giveaway

... which you can score for 40% off when you enter the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway.

http://www.pedalindustries.com/giveaway

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3849634430

DID STRAVA JUST BECOME THE KING OF PARTICIPATION TROPHIES?  Sheesh.  It works like this, if you ride a segment more than anybody else for a month you're the Local Legend.

Is there a weaker, lamer metric to track?

C'mon Strava... who's in charge over there?  Some punk who had a graduating kindergarten ceremony?  A kid who's soccer team never one a game but made sure everybody got something like Most Improved At Trying Hard?

How many of you are the Local Legend of the only way to get out of your neighborhood?  

That ain't for us.

We're for PRs... preferably unaided by wind and groups... but PRs nonetheless.

... for winning actual races... climbing up on an actual podium.

... for smoking our pals to the city limit signs.

The only legend we want is to be known for being committed to doing our very best.  Every.  Single.  Day.  And we don't need no stinking trophy for that, because we know it and those around us know it.  It shows in all we do.

This is why I always say PRs are better than KOMs.  

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

Get the word out.
Get free shipping.
Get yourself some savings when you use promo code:  PRsRule

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

---

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

161.6 lbs 
Stretch
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3843862446

THERE'S A LOT OF FLICKING IN THE WORLD.  Some flick boogers, all flick light switches.  Cigs get flicked out car windows, buttons on jeans get flicked open, and snakes' tongues flicker... and a few of us, flick our elbows.

That's the kinda flicking I was witnessing tonight on the ride.

Poor ol' sap stuck on the front of the group in a horrendous amount of wind.  Tired.  Starts flickin' the elbow for someone to pull through.

Nada.

But, he's not a poor ol' sap... he's BigTom, of the strongest guys on the ride, and we're all just laughing at him.

From 10 guys back I mosey up to the front thanking him for being such a sucker as I roll by.

That wasn't very nice... but, that's the kinda friendly stuff we do.

Sometimes no amount of flicking will get ya any help.  Sometimes ya just have to stop pedaling and force people around ya.  I've done it many a time to my friends and frenemies.

I've seen some really cool friendly things this week at the biz.

One friend took advantage of that ridiculous buy the gloves get the socks deal last week and sent them to a friend.  The friend upon receiving them decided to pay it forward and sent it to another friend.

I felt kind of like a florist on Valentine's Day... writing notes like Cronk love you and Chris wants you to look sharp on Tuesday.

If you're into that kind of thing, the code will still work through 7/31.

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

There are lots of combos if you like to be matchymatchy.

So go ahead and use the promo code from last week:  SEERED

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry

161.8lbs 
Stretch
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3841335052

YOU CAN'T TEACH CYCLESENSE.  As we descended down towards the stop sign it became apparent one rider was going to go straight and the rest of were turning.  My cyclesense could feel it a few hundred meters or so prior to the impending doom.  But newguy wasn't feeling it, nor was mr.goingstraight.  For me, it was like watching a slow motion train wreck... finally at 50 meters I couldn't take it, and blurted out something like... 

Watchwereyoufriggingoinghesturningandhesgoingstraight.

The only way to develop cyclesense is to ride a lot.

Fortunately for me, one of my best friends is kinda like Mr. Magoo... totally absentminded and after nearly taking me out many times on a ride I not only explicitly tell him we're turning, but I also use hand signals. All those near misses developed my cyclesense for the above scenario.

Cyclesense like a superpower that you forget you have until you get around a rider with an undeveloped cyclesense.

The problem is how to tell whose got it and who doesn't.

Here are a few tells:

• Arms locked straight
• Sprinting like a puppy, wasting energy
• Poor fitting gear

Not that looking stylish, having good form and playing it cool are a guaranty you'll live to ride again... they aren't.

Nor is casually asking How long you been ridin'?

Really the best way to know is to develop your own cyclesense by riding a lot.  Trust me, it will rarely lead you astray.  In groups, on treacherous trails, in traffic, on gravel... it all strengthens and combines to protect you.

You know what else will protect you and look stylish?

A fine, fine helmet from Italy... whether you need an aero, all around or offroad specific solution these are my faves.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Sometimes there's nothing like a new helmet.

If you think there one in your future, check these out... 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Use promo code SAVE10, unless you're in the PEDALposse and have the super code: 

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

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163.4 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3836258720

I THOUGHT I WAS SO SMART... I'd meticulously prepped for this morning's ride.  Bottles made and in the fridge.  Clothes laid out.  Glasses cleaned.  Chain freshened and waxed.  Pump by bike.  Lights mounted.  Computer snapped in.  Derailleur batteries charged.

What could go wrong?

5am alarm was set, and I snapped right up with pleeeeenty of time to thoughtfully get ready.  Meandered about the house drinking, dressing, curling my hair and putting on my make up.  

Right on cue, I grabbed my bike and rolled easy.  I had 12 minutes to get to the start, and I planned to use all of them.  You know get a nice warm up, enjoy the quiet and emerging light of day.

It was so peaceful when to my horror I looked down...

... no water bottles!!!!...

... shiz, shiz, shiz... there's no way I could make 62 miles, 5000' of climbing with the ferocious beasts I call my friends sans the good stuff.

3 minutes from home.

Whipped the bike around.  Raced back home.  Clickityclacked into and out of the house... and set a PR heading to the start.  Chased the fellas hard for the first 20 minutes.

I was warmed up, oh was I warmed up!

During those first 3 minutes I realized the days are getting shorter.  It was actually dark when I left.  No prob, because I was lit up with my snazzy front and rear blinkies.  Fact is, if wasn't so smugly admiring my genius at being ready and prepared with charged lights I might have realized I was missing the bottles.

If you're days are getting shorter and you're need of some lights - I run 'em daytime, front and rear - check these out.

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

The thing I like about these is they provide 330 degrees of light... others can see me at almost any angle.

Pretty cool.

Here's a cool promo... save 20% while supplies last or until 7/31/2020.

Promo code is:  LOADBOTTLES

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

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

163 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3827689845

I VIVIDLY REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME I SHAVED MY LEGS.  It was like cutting down my manhood.  A slow, torturous cutting.  Not because it hurt, but because I was a virgin.

Should I trim first?

Shaving cream or soap?

Shower or tub?

So many doubts... first and foremost being, how much ridicule am I gonna endure from the guys.

But, these are things we do when we're passionate.  And there's a lot more peculiarity about us, hence the ceaseless questions:

You rode how far?
You're eating what?
You're going to bed now?
You spent how much on a bike?
... and my favorite...
... is that really fun?

In my world, where it's Hell yeah or No, I no longer care what is said or questioned.  I know for a fact...

I'm younger
healthier
and a helluvalot more fun than my contemporaries.

Which I think is the whole point of Emerson's essay titled Self-Reliance.  If you've never read it, read it.  I wish I'd found it a hundred years ago.  It's free on the web or a couple of bucks in print.

Here are a few gems:

• Trust thyself.
• Envy is ignorance... imitation is suicide.
• A man is relieved and gay when he has put his heart into his work, and done his best.
• Society everywhere is in a conspiracy against the manhood of everyone of its members.
• Be a nonconformist.
• I must do all that concerns me, not what other people think.
• If we live truly, we shall see truly.
• Nature suffers nothing to remain in her kingdom which cannot help itself.
• God is here within.
• He does not postpone life, but lives already.
• With the exercise of self-trust, new powers shall appear.
• Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.

Maybe there's one you can put to use this week... me, I'll be doing all that concerns me and PEDALindustries.

It was that very thought that got me cranking out July's Campfire Stories for the PEDALposse...

... if you're in to being on the inside of what we're up to, check it out:

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

---

162.8 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3816711706

TO LIE OR NOT TO LIE, that is the question.  I mean, what do you do when you want the new rider to join you on the big ride that will most likely see them ejected at some point... hopefully later than earlier?

C'mon, it's a fun ride.  Everybody's real friendly.  There's a couple of rollers.  It's mostly downhill with a tail wind.

vs.

C'mon, it's the hardest ride around.  Dudes are all pros.  The climbs will sear your lungs.  You'll wish you'd never woken up, or even owned a bike.

Really, what do you do?

That came up today as new guy Adam trembled at Mike's description of Tesla... it's a 2ish minute power climb designed to eject all the wheelsuckers.

Just stay on Todd's wheel.

I'm not sure if that's a compliment or a put down... I think it means I know how to get up it with the least amount of energy spent, that I have no jump in my legs, and will usually find myself in the right spot to slowly slide back and grab the last wheel that's gonna make it as they roll by.

Anyway, that was Adam's mission.

But Adam is a feisty stallion with a decent jump and off he went... halfway where it levels off and speeds up a lot, I'm looking for that last wheel to take me to paradise and it's Adam... and a gap is every so slowly opening.

Now here's some real friendship.

Rather than pull through and close that gap, I'm just yelling like a kook...

... Don't let them go Adam!

And I'll be dawgawned if Adam didn't find something extra and git 'er done.

Which brings us back to the moral dilemma... to lie or not to lie.  And if you're gonna lie, which way?

After a serious rehashing we decided some will rise to the occasion of an horrific description while others do much better a dramatic understatment.

Me personally... I like to oversell a grueling effort for the simple reason I don't do guilt.  Kind of a You were warned thing.

But, that's me.

I'm always inviting.  Always overselling.  Always hoping newb will make it or be so dawgawn inspired they'll do what it takes to make it next time.  My friends ain't quitters, don't back down and don't lie nearly as much as me.

One place I'm a total Boy Scout is in product endorsements.  Sometimes I regret sharing all the secrets, but only when I see them go to waste by giving up.  So, if you're commit to squeeze every bit out of your potential know I've got your back.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lazynloose

We've yet to see a single person send their PR Lotion back... they just keep ordering.

Same goes for the delicious GQ6.

When you order them together you can add any pair of socks or gloves for FREE... only if you use this promo code: 

LAZYNLOOSE

And it all ships F R E E.

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry

162.6 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3812407009

THERE ARE DAYS TO MASH ON THE PEDALS, TIMES TO DANCE ON THEM, and moments like this morning to simply let the legs fall, no effort at all.  

Don't touch the brakes.

Just coast.

Far.

Let any nasty residue of riding or life melt down through the cranks to the tires to the earth.  All that's left is a rested, carefree rider.

Times like these which are so lazy, my body is so loose afterward often precede the most vicious of efforts.

So, when the text came in for an invite to ride included...

... possibly add 10 miles and/or change the spot for our 2nd water stop...

... I knew one thing for sure, that was code for restup buttercup... to which I say...

Lazy and loose today, for tomorrow we slay.

Which means it'll be hearty breakfast of PR Lotion followed by a GQ6 chaser.

Because there's no way I'd try and hang on to these hooligans without my magic lotion and secret potion.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lazynloose

We've yet to see a single person send their PR Lotion back... they just keep ordering.

Same goes for the delicious GQ6.

When you order them together you can add any pair of socks or gloves for FREE... only if you use this promo code: 

LAZYNLOOSE

And it all ships F R E E.

Every $ Spent = 1 Lottery Entry for Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway

---

162.6 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3809865225

THERE SEEMS TO BE SOMETHING SINISTER GOING AROUND.  Last week I noticed Steve had it on the Tuesday ride.  Sounded awful.  This week, same ride.  No Steve.  But, sho nuff Bob had the same thing going on.  And tonight, it hit lil ol me.

I think we'll be alright... just need to see the doc.

These dawgawn bottom brackets on all our bikes have gone to shiz.  Creaking and wheezing and clickityclacking.  

Is there anything more annoying?

The thing about it is... I usta be able to fix it meself.  But somewhere on the way to newerbetterfaster my skills crept away.  A slow decline, not a thief in the night.  More like ants making off with a cookie.

Good thing we've got a doctor in the house.  Literally.  Chris has been operating on newerbetterfaster bikes for 25 years... he just moved to town so we set him up in our store, which is starting to look kinda like a bike shop.

Weird.  I know.

But, everything we do at PEDALindustries is about scratching our own itch... RaceDay Bags™, Superlight Gloves and Socks, Changing Ponchos, The Speed Jersey... 

... and the PEDALposse, which is kinda like an ambassador program where you save a ton of coin, get access to special gear and of course the lovely Coach Loran training videos... if you're into that sort of thing...

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

---

162.4 lbs 
PullUps and PushUps
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3806737263

ONE OF MY FAVORITE COVERS IS GNR's RENDITION OF LIVE AND LET DIE... it's on my pump up to race play list.

When you got a job to do
You got to do it well
You got to give the other fella hell!

But, when does that job start?

At the sprint
The start line
Packing the night before
Tuning things up 2 weeks out
Laying base miles months earlier

???????

I was thinking about that this morning at 7am when Coach Loran was giving me hell...

It hurt.
A lot.
Legs quivering, core screaming, shoulders on fire.

... the only way to give 'em hell is go there first, which is why I always invite y'all to join us LIVE on Instagram at 7am Wednesday mornings.

The other thing was thinking about was how I like to frame a flashy kit with black gloves and black socks.

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

It's funny how people come to us for one thing and are surprised at how good we are at another. 

My pals Justin and Chris were talking, Justin knows us because we do the kit for his team every year and Chris via his team RaceDay Bag™...

Ya know PEDAL's socks are pretty awesome 

And so are the gloves

THERE WE WERE, RIDING HOME.  It had been a heck of a ride already... and Nick wanted to take the easy way home.

I have a meeting at 10.  I don't want to be too tired.

Was I hearing right?

Take the easy way home?

All it took was a little shame...

... Oh, yeah, that makes a lot of sense.  I mean if you're tired n all.

And that's all it took... next thing I know the three of us are getting another 1000' of climbing in before clocking in at the yobs.

Perfect.

Some say Shame on you TB...

... I say shame more, if you care. 

You know what else I say, these new white gloves look smashing with the matching white socks.

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

THE POWER OF THE BEST RIDES AND RACES lies not with inclusion, but exclusion.  Sure you're invited.  But, they do not suffer the slow, the weak, the unprepared.

And isn't that great?

To know there are still places on earth where you won't be given a participation trophy or a finisher's medal.  To know that there are people who care enough to demand your best and nothing less.

And aren't those riders and racers who understand this just awesome?

Unique. 

Rugged. 

Courageos

Wanting, no demanding, to find out how good they are without any help.  Preferring to tap into their own inner powers, to discover greater levels of performance, to unleash on those that would leave them behind.

These are my people.  

Us.

I thought about this today in a meeting with a very exclusive vendor.  They want us, we want them... but, when it came out our potential to deliver was in doubt I wanted to coldly ask... 

Are you talk to me?... 

... instead I leveled my gaze...

Just try and keep up, ok?!

 If you're feeling that convo at all, you might be feelin' the red I was seeing...

... and wanting to wear these red gloves and socks.

Here's the deal... and it's a very special one:  buy the gloves and the socks FREE!

Use promo code:  SEERED

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

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

---

166.6 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3790904636

I'VE ALWAYS BELIEVED IN HAVING A CHEAT DAY ONCE A WEEK, but today was ridiculous.  I started off strong... thinking I'd be fine.

I saw the pink box.

Knew there were donuts inside.

Took a peek.

3 full donuts + a half chocolate oldfashioned donut.

Just a chunk of the half donut... that's it. 

I'd stop there.

I sat on the opposite side of the room reading Emerson.  Being strong.  But, the box was taunting me.  

Hours went by, really.

But, just was we were about to head out to our friends for lunch... I couldn't take it any more.  Nobody else had had a donut.  

There were in there.

All of them.

And then they weren't.

The box was empty.

My stomach full.

Me, happy.

For sure I'd be strong at lunch,.. but it wasn't really lunch.  It was insane blueberry pancakes, endless bacon and sausage, delicious fruit salad.

I had seconds.

Definitely dinner would be light.  Except all the kids were coming over and who wants to be Justservemesalad or Nodessertforme?

Not me.

Looks like another big miles week..

... and even though I'm packing plenty of foodstorage, I'll still need my minerals and such.

My go to is GQ6. 

I've been using it for years.  Originally developed for the United Health race team, it's been great for me.  1 scoop for easy rides, 2 scoops for hard road, 3 scoops for MTB... just because it's so hard to eat in an MTB race.

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

Comes in 3 delicious flavors:  apple, tropical and orange.  I like 'em all.

If you're looking for a drink that is loaded with goodness, this is a good one.

Use promo code:  BADCHEATER

---

164.2 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
Family walk. 

IT'S REALLY HARD TO TELL WHEN A BOY BECOMES A MAN.  There he was... still looking boyish, but possessing all the power and confidence of an immerging man.

Young Kevin.

Kevin, what are your plans for the summer.

I'm leaving Wednesday for Europe, racing Whichchingadery, Luz Van Vluz...  names I can't remember nor pronounce except... Worlds, and the Baby Giro.

Which reminded me of the first time I saw him... jumping into our local group ride, all legs and arms whirling with enthusiasm... on a Saturday morning not unlike today. 13ish?

It was great to see him and catch up a bit before he goes off to ride with the best in the world.

I noticed something else on the ride today.  Aside from being a larger ride than usual, there were a lot of other kids... 20ish year olds.  And, that's a great thing to see.

Kids on bikes.

Out in the real world. 

The physical one. 

The one where you can feel the wind in your hair, the sun on your skin, the blood in your veins.  The one where a wrong move can end badly, and the right move be exhilarating beyond belief.

And none of us were staring at dumb screens, like addicts, searching for a dopamine hit.

The only high we were getting was adrenalin.  The only sounds, real conversations and gears... with serious huffingandpuffing mixed in.

I'll take the analog world over the digital one... every single day!

Feeling like a boy.

On a bike.

And, speaking of sun on your skin... if you're looking for some good protection, try out Arm Coolers.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-arm-coolers

For the next 48 hours, you can save 20% on these thin, lycra only arm coverings... we call Arm Coolers.... quantities are limited.

Use Promo Code:  COOL

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-arm-coolers

---

163.8 lbs 
Rest
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3781943853

THE FACE OF EINSTEIN PRETTY MUCH SAYS IT ALL, he's happy.  His observation, while obvious to us, is not obvious to all...

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.
- A. Einstein

... aren't we lucky!

Thousands, millions?, of people have conspired to provide this joy and lesson to us...

... engineers, financiers, crafters, painters, transporters, welders, marketers, writers, photographers...

... we could scarcely count nor locate all the brains and bodies behind the wonderful machines we ride.

We can pick up a bike for a few dollars at a garage sale, a few hundies at a big box, a few thou' at a specialty shop.  The joy can be the same.

For me, the bestest is getting offroad, into the dirt, for a sunrise or sunset.  Out of earshot of the big city.  Away from the screens.  The phone off.  Solo. It's like a hot bath for the soul.  Washing away the grime of the grind.  Nothing better.

That's the genius of a bike ride.

Any bike will do, just keep moving.

I was reminded of this when SurferDan showed up today... he comes in...

I got this kid with me.  Got him into riding.  He's really loving it.  He hit 28 miles an hour for 2 minutes trying to drop me... he's got potential, I just don't want to burn him out... he needs a kit.

Great, let's take him to the closeouts.

10 minutes later and the kid has a great kit for a few bucks. 

We don't have every size, but we have a lot... for few dollahs.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs

---

164.8 lbs 
Surf Sesh
7 hours sleep
no ride.

WE HAVE THIS RIDE THAT USED TO BE JEKYLL N HYDE.  Tuesday was very Hydish, vicious and unforgiving.  Thursday was refined and sophisticated, like Jekyll himself.

But something has happened...

... Jekyll can no longer confine the younger, cunning killer that is Hyde.

I keep inviting people on down to do the gentleman's version on Thursday... ya know, to spin the legs out and enjoy a coastal cruise... and they keep getting shot out the back.

Last week, I did something I never do... stop to help a comrade fix a flat... just to get outta the uncivilized society.

This week, was something unheard of... while trying to shame one of my friends who lives high on the hill into taking letting me drive him home... he actually said, Yes please.  Poor baby.

What the H-E-doubletoothpicks is going on here?

Of course, as I'm prepping this weak rant in my mind, EasyE sends a text with some punk CTS coach on YouTube talking about all the ways masters racers can maintain their fitness.  #1 being...

... keep up the intensity.

Just not on Thursdays, please.

2-3 intense days a week is plenty.

Can't win 'em all, shouldn't race 'em all.

Speaking of 2-3, I'm feelin' a Buy2Get1 promo...

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

 Is there a better time of year to get the softest, best fitting tshirt a cyclist ever wore?

Buy 3 tshirts, and when you use promo code: HYDE

The 3rd tshirt is fffffree.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts

---

165 lbs 
Paddle Surf
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3773704498

WE HAVE A BUNCH JOKERS AROUND HERE.  People for whom a bit of fun is not nearly enough.  And givers they are. 

Little gnomish trail signs dot the way.  Giant stuffed animals casually roam in place.  And berms and jumps and gaps and ladders ga-freakin-lore.

After a long day grinding, it's afternoon delight.

Climbs that bare down and discourage in the dark and cold are easily overcome.  Obstacles and drops approached with caution turn into launch points.  Scrubbing speed on big turns isn't even a thought when your vision is crisp.

And it just builds.

We ride a little longer with the extra light, get a little faster, build a little stamina... and ride a little longer.

That's the stoke of summer.

Of course, with all the extra riding it helps to have some good fluid with plenty of good stuff.

Here's my go to:

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

GQ6 is my drink, Honey Stinger Waffles my snack, and it's smoking hot I bring the Salt Stick.

Here's the deal, and it ends Saturday... buy any 2 items save 70% on the 3rd item.

PromoCode is SUMMERSTOKE

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

---

165 lbs 
Coach Loran Live at 7am
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3769022422

NOT A WORD IS SPOKEN, heads are bowed.  A reverent moment before all hell breaks loose...

... a scene repeated on corners and in parking lots across the country, where the penitent meet.

We know our sins are many...

• Lack sleep
• Excess of ice cream
• Foul drivetrain
• Too few miles
• etc

... but we keep coming to hear the good word from the King of Pain, because we know this church is full of believers...

... believers that if we can just keep those commandments we too will one day ascend to the highest throne and deliver the message to all the common folk who were too weak to commit to be great.

 And we look forward to that day with mighty hope.

That's how I was feeling this morning... after tipping the scales 3lbs heavier than Sunday, after a paltry 6 hours of sleep... I was pretty sure it was going to be a rough one.

The only thing I had going for me was my new white gloves that matched my white socks and the white highlights on my beautiful Speed Suit with white highlights.  

It's amazing how a simple thing like new gloves can make one feel clean and worthy and ready... 

... especially these gloves for summer with superlight mesh top, and perforated palms...

... perfect for dogdaze like there.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/superlight-race-gloves-white

I know, it's hard to believe we sell these for $20 including shipping.  My CFO says I'm a fool... I say, What's your point?

Anyway, these are in now and we have a limited quantity.  Get 'em while ya can.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/superlight-race-gloves-white

---

166.2 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3761590671

AS I CONTEMPLATE A NEW BIKE, I realize it's not as easy as it looks.  Whichever bike I choose will, to a certain extent, determine the kind or riding and racing I'll do.

It's weird the way our tools shape us vs us shaping our tools. 

The bike we ride defines how we ride. 

Can an aero bike climb? 

Of course, you know you'll be thinking, dreaming and scheming about flat and rolling courses vs giant climbs... and you - me for sure - just might skip the next big climbing day when it's offered if all you have is an aero bike.

Same with MTB... XC or trail?

Get an XC bike and you'll be thinking about the power to conquer the climbs and be nimble on the descents... get a trail bike and you'll be looking for nearest lift, and bulldozing all obstacles.

Choose your tools carefully.

For example... if you go with the Classic RaceDay Bag™, you'll have just the right tool for 1 day races of the road/cx/xc kind.... go with the pro, and you'll be set for stage races or multiday trips.

The good news is if you win the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway, you can have the tool of your choice.

All ya gotta do is enter here: pedalindustries.com/giveaway

And if you share your special link or purchase more product your odds of winning go up a lot...

... winning a custom bag, custom kit, helmet, shoes + $500 cash for your next race...

... you know you want that, I know I do: 

pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

165.4 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3756553080

YOU KNOW ABOUT THE 85% RULE RIGHT?  It's the one used to earn Olympic Gold by all sorts of sprinters.  It's why you see them all loosygoosy at the start. Relaxed.  Ya see, some smartypants coach noticed about 30 years ago, that one particular racer kept winning by running 85%.

Here's how it works, and why I say it's twice as slow...

... I say it's twice as slow to to make it stick in my mind...

• Think of the great Carl Lewis, he was never first to the 40... which at the time was the predictor of who'd win the 100m... but he always finished far ahead.
• He started at 85%, therefore behind.
• By starting at 85% he slowed down slower than the rest, giving the allusion of accelerating long past the 40.
• They were all slowing down, by starting slow he slowed down less slow.

It's not really twice as slow, it's slow twice:

Slow, as in not going all out at the start...
... and slow, as in slowing down slower than those who went all out.

I think it's interesting that the person that shared this with me used exactly 85%... because that's pretty much the pace I figured out I can go all day.

Plus, there's a lot less pressure at the start knowing a whole buncha racers are gonna go out too fast and blow.  

It does take a bit of faith... self-confidence... and works on and off the bike.

You know what else helps with confidence?  Knowing you've got all your gear on race day... and nothing is better for that than the RaceDay Bag™.

By now you probably know we're giving away a custom bag, loaded with $1000 in merch + $500 cash...

... but did you know that once you register, every purchase you make gets you more entries?

Check it out: http://www.pedalindustries.com/giveaway...

 ---

163.2 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3754173288

WHAT IF I HAD TO CHOOSE MY LAST RACE?  Ya know, if a Dr Badnews said, Ya got 90 days kid.

Which would it be?

How would I train?

What would I need to purchase?

Who would I ask to help me prep?

Where would I be based?

These are random things I think about on rides like today.

The ladies kicked me for some sorta lady party at the house... so me thought, where'm I gonna go?

Well, I haven't been to GMR for a while... it's been the Queen Stage of Tour of California - 27 mile climb with about 6000 of vert + 1600 more on the return.

It's big.

It's beautiful

And, today it was largely carless except the final, awful push to the ski station.

I only say it was awful because those last 4 miles were in 90 degree heat and I was counting on the little store being open but not willing to let myself get too excited in case it wasn't open because that'd be such a let down but I reallyreallyreally wanted a Coke and chips and isn't that an awful torturous conversation to have with yourself in that heat with up to 20% pitches and cars creeping by oh and to make it worse a nice Germandude with that heyImahappygerman Jensy tone talked me into not turning around early because I'd been motivating him and he said all this while not breathing as I gasped and gulped.

So there I am asking myself what I'd do if Dr Badnews delivered the badnews and I realized that was stupid because he'd never call me Kid.

But, they are darn good questions.

And I think sometime we take this sport a little too serious... okay, you don't, but I've been known to put a few things on hold 10 weeks out from a bigepic race...

... to treat it like it is the last...

... and while that may or mayn't be healthy, it has been known to deliver a result or two.

You're welcome to use that ThisIsMyLastRacd formula if ya like...

... one thing is for sure I'd have The Ultimate RaceDay™ Bag

• Custom print to keep me organized and focused
• Custom Speed kit to help me haul@$$ and look awesome
• Matching KASK helmet for maximum efficiency
• Superlight gloves and RaceSocks
• ... you know a bag stuffed with the best stuff

Right now, today, you could win a bag like that and be the envy of all your friends... 

... ready for the ride of your life.

Check it out:  http://www.pedalindustries.com/giveaway

---

164.2 lbs 
Nap
7.7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3747612206#comments

ONCE UPON A TIME I TRIED MY HAND AT RACE PROMOTION.  Me being me, it wasn't just any race it was a new format aimed at expanding racing across the globe.  My pal Mike believed in it enough to invest.  The vision was grand.

We called the races HUNKR - Hundred Kilometer Race.

The format was this:  everybody starts together, everybody ALWAYS raced exactly 100k, party after.

Why that format?  Starting together gave a shared experience for everybody, always racing 100k allowed for racers to chase their PR, party after because party after.

Even as I write this I wish I could be training for a HUNKR.

We'd all be training together, getting ready for the big day.  Driving out together.  Lining up together... we'd try win it all, to win our age group, to PR, to win the team (5) competition.  

There were so many ways to win.

We had a $10,000 purse, split evenly between men and women.

Under 23 got in free.

The pros showed up, and the youngsters won the days.

It was the only road race in our county in the last 50 years - as far as I know.  We held it twice in OC and once in LA.  The LA version was a gravel race.  They were all a blast.

One of the best parts of being a promoter was seeing all the joy on people's faces as they finished.  There is no way we could have pulled it off without all the volunteers who helped nor without the support of the 9 different public entities we coordinated with.  It was a huge team effort.

If ya can't tell... I like competitions.

And just like HUNKR, this is one I'd do for sure...

... THE ULTIMATE RACEDAY BAG™ GIVEAWAY.

Yep, we're giving away a custom RaceDay™ bag with over $1000 in merchandise = $500 in cash for your next race.

... and because I like lots of ways to win, we'll have 3 winners + $750 in gift cards for others + other swag.

All the details are here:  pedalindustries.com/contest

You literally cannot lose on this one... there's something for everyone that takes part.

But, don't click if you don't want a new custom RaceDay Bag™ + a new custom Speed Kit + new shoes + other awesome merch + $500 in cash towards your next race.

I mean who would want that? 

Uh... I WOULD!

But, I'm not allowed to enter.  Ugh.

Check it out: pedalindustries.com/contest

And... It's really, really dig it if you'd enter and share the message.  

---

164.2
Stretch and Roll
8 hours sleep
Sunset Surf

TODAY REMINDED ME OF HOW IMPORTANT IT IS TO CROSS TRAIN THE RIGHT WAY.  Sure it's important to cross train, but not just for the sake of cross training itself.  Proper cross training takes 1 + 1 and makes 3.

Take surfing.

When you paddle out to surf you are hoping to catch a wave.  So are 10 or more guys.  Waves, the good ones, come infrequently.  Everybody is on high alert.  You've got to outmaneuver all those hungry lions.

Surfers that catch waves are looking hundreds of yards into the horizon, searching for a shadow or a ripple that will turn into a nice, thick wall of charging water.

You have to be very coy.  If you see a good one, somehow you've got to get to the right spot without alerting everybody what you're up do. It's a very fine art.

Assuming you've put yourself in the right location and it's yours, you still have to time your effort to catch the wave.  You can't just paddle and you can't sprint forever.

Sound familiar? 

You've got to all out sprint for 10-30 seconds just to get up to speed to actually catch the elusive energy that will launch you down the face of the wave.

It's a whole lot like sprinting on a bike.

Paying attention, noting the approaching finish, finding the right wheel or hole, then unleashing all you've got.

That's how to cross train... ask yourself, what can I take from this activity and apply to my bike racing?  Or, what can I take from bike racing and apply towards my career?

Here's another one.

I like to play chess online.  Especially the 5 minute format where each player has 5 minutes.  There's the mental aspect... hatching plans, adjusting to the other players moves... and all the while that clock is ticking down.

It's a lot like racing as well.  

Each racer has a plan.  Almost always you've got to make adjustments along the way... and all the while that finish line is getting closer.  Somebody's gonna win.

I like to think chess helps me see the end game of any endeavor.

One more.

I like writing these posts.  It's a creative outlet, and I know at least 2 people have found the information useful.

I also like reading.  I try and read a book a week.  To expand my limited knowledge and to be exposed to different writing styles.

Ultimately that reading improves the writing.

Yes, do the cross training... but, do it with purpose.

We try to be purposeful in our designs.  One design that I love is the one we did for the Day of The Dead.  And whadaya know we rang up a couple of sales on those kits today.

It's one of my all time favorites.

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

Use this promo code: CrossTrain

And you'll get the matching socks when you purchase the jersey.

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

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

---

164.8 lbs 
SurfSesh
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3739329959

DO YOU EVER FEEL LIKE A TRANSFORMER?  You know, going from Droopy to WonderDog?

I know I do.

Some days it happens when I first get up.  I'm groggy, can barely walk a straight line, and mightily fight the urge fall back into the bed.

Other days, like tonight, I'm exhausted and just wanna prop my feet up and Netflixout.

But, I don't.

In either case I kit up.  Bibs, chest strap, jersey. Stop on the last stair and pull on the socks.

I've never, ever gotten that far and not proceeded to put on the shoes, helmet, glasses and gloves.

Next, it's easy and natural to check the tire pressure and turn on blinky lights and computer.

At this point it's not a choice if, but how far.

I'm riding...

... and it all started with pulling on my bibs.

I think this is what makes us different, what makes us able to get so much accomplished.  We've done it countless times, gone out and done rides that confirm we are nuts to everybody around us.

We know all it takes is pulling on the bibs, and we can change who we are, how we feel, and what we're gonna make happen.

Did you pull your bibs on today?

Maybe putting on the softest tshirt you ever wore as a reminder to your after work commitment would be a good reminder?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-shadow-t-available-in-5-colors?variant=11067667480612

If we didn't get compliments all the time on how soft and wonderful these t's are I wouldn't boast... but, we do.

You can get it right now for less than $20, including shipping.

Comes in 5 colors.

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165 lbs 
Wednesday w/ Coach Loran
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3734718788

WHEN EVERYBODY LEFT WITH THE 'B' RIDE EXCEPT 3 OF US I was a touch disappointed.  After getting shelled on Saturday I knew only the famous TMWC 'A' could get me back in shape, and I was counting on a proper butt kicking by the heavy hitters...

... but, they all rolled 'B', except, that is, 3 of us.

The other 2 wanted to leave early to make sure we'd catch... I wanted to wait the full 5 mimutes, first out of respect for those thinking the ride leaves at 630; and second, to make sure it'd be extree hard.

At 630, we hit it.  

As hoped, Joe E and young Cody were counting on the 630 start and jumped on.

Now we were 5 against 20ish.

But, it's a funny thing... when you have in your head you're on the 'A' ride, you know you're all in.  Giving it all ya got.

On the 'B', not so much.

The humidity was high, sweat and mist poured down my face.  My tongue flapping in the wind.

30 second pulls.

Right on the rivet.

We caught a few dropped riders on the first climb and woulda caught the group soon... but, committed to the 'A' loop, we did the extra credit... adding 3ish minutes.

Back on the course, we picked off the same stragglers and soon could see the main group on The Wall.

My earlier disappointment turned to glee.

Damn it was good to be back.

For my friend Will, it was his first time on the ride.  He rode 'B', and did just fine.  Now he wants to do 'A'...

... especially after he got 60 Stravacups and I got zilch.

While he pointed out the Rookie gets the cups and the veteran gets skunked... I got the full cup of butt kicking I wanted.

In celebration of a satisfactory thrashing I think it's time for the Continental Buy1Get1.

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

Use this promo code:  CONTIBOGO

It's actually better than BOGO, you get 50% off any quantity of 2 or more.

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

---

166.2 lbs (4th of July Blubber)
Stretch n Roll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3727456513

I HAVE THIS FRIEND WHO IS JUST A TERRIBLE RACER.  Stronger than everybody until race day.  Then, he loses his mind.  Shows up tired.  Forgets how to win, like on the training rides.

I was reminded of this right before I jumped into the shower.

Don't judge.

Yet.

A while back I made a pledge to do 10 pull ups and 30 push ups every time I take a shower.  Of course, I take Saturday off because #bigride.  I take Sunday off because I take Sundays off.

Last Friday I was really dragging.  Could only do 8 and 25... so made myself do 4 and 10 after a bit of a rest.

Today, being Monday, I stepped up and rattled 'em off.

Rest.

Who knew?

Tapering.

Who wants to know?

In this month's CampFire Stories going out to the PEDALposse I'm detailing the day I decided to go for Tahoe 100 which lead to doing Leadville 100... and there I'll detail exactly what I did 14 days prior.

We'll also include some sorta swag.

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

If you're still sitting on the fence regarding the PEDALposse... watch Loran rip me to pieces live Wednesday morning at 7am PST on Instagram -> @pedalindustries IG story and Coach Loran Wednesday 7/8 @7AM PT for a 30 minute plank sizzler.

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165.2 lbs 
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3722443309

FOR ALL THE BELIEVERS IN MUMBOJUMBO HOOHA, the timetested fairy dust of affirmations and visualization... for the lovers of SeeBelieveAchieve... the practitioners of Think and Grow Fast... you who lay reason aside in favor of My Favorite Mantra... this post is for you.

I get it.

I feel your pain.

I know what it's like to have the Big Hairy Audacious Goal (credit Jim Collins)... calling the shots, correcting the mistakes... seemingly taking over our very being.

For me, it's the only way to live.

The more long range, unreasonable and personal the better. 

For example, last year I had 2 biggies... 

The first, to finish with the leaders at San Luis Rey.
The other, to PR Leadville.

This year is a bit of a moving target.

I've appreciated my friends like Emilio who prepped for KANZA and went and did his own Shadow KANZA.  He's not alone.  Lots have done the same.

I dig that, though I hope I don't need to do it.

This year, for me, it's down to this:  BWR Cedar City and Sagebrush Safari.  Two races I've yet to do.

This will be my first BWR.  As for the goal... well, apparently just finishing means something... but, ya know that won't be good enough.  There's got to be some unreasonable time to shoot for.  Maybe it's under 9 hours?  I'll check around before settling on that.

And Sagebrush Safari?... I pre-rode it earlier this year.  It's got to be one of the funnest courses I've ever ridden and I can't wait to do it.  The goal there... ya know I'd really like to be in the hunt.

Back to the fairydust...

... the only way to make magic happen is get signed up.  

Then, and only then, does Chapter 2 of Psycho-Cybernetics make sense.

Ya know what else makes sense?

Joining the PEDALposse.

Last month the posse received one of our world famous supersoft tshirts plus the obscene savings promo code plus a new Coach Loran video.

Deets are here:  

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

PS... For some real entertainment toon in Wednesday at 7am PST to watch Coach Loran beat me into submission with a plank.  It'll be on Instagram TV, @pedalindustries.

---

165.2 lbs
stretch n roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3719949691