ONCE YOU GO DING-DING, you'll never go back.  Why just this morning I was working my way home on a gentrified dirt path... one of those fancy jobbers the developer put in so the buyers could feel adventurous 50' from home.

That's cool with me... folks gotta start somewhere, or they'll never get to where we get.

Bonus, the trails are rarely used and allow me to connect all kinds options from roads to paths to singletrack right on out to nowhere... which is exactly where I need to get this morning.

On my way back from nowhere, on the final dirt path before the paved road home, I came upon a sweet lady.

Ding.

DingDing.

Ding.

Oh... why I couldn't figure that sound... I thought it was dinner time.

She had a lovely, coquetteish smile.

I smiled back.

I love this little bell.  So much better than my teenage superwhistle, or a bunch of HeyTheres.

Ding.

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

This the kind of thing the PEDALposse saves a little more on.

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

The PEDALposse price is going up next week.

---

165 lbs 
arms/shoulders
6.5 hours sleep (not enough)
https://www.strava.com/activities/3224337190

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

YOU KNOW HIGENE IS IMPORTANT, that's why I rinse my legs once a week.  Sometimes, even two times.  Rarely, three or more.

It's all part of my diabolical training... one of the reasons you may get me on a training a ride, but RaceDay be totally different.

Do you rinse your legs?

Errr... do you even know how to rinse your legs?

Not wash.

Rinse.

A rinse ride is where you go out and go real easylike.  
Heart rate, very low.
Power, negligible.
Cadence, high.

It feels like a big, fat waste of time.  But it's not, at least for me.  For me, it's integral to what I do.

Train hard, then rinse.

I usually rinse on Thursdays, after Monday openers and Tuesday hammering and Wednesday tempo/climbing...

... rinse, and repeat.

Keep your power low and your cadence up real high,
Going on a rinse ride gonna have a real, a good time!

You know what else is a good time?

The PEDALposse. 

How good?

Click it out before price goes up next week.

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

---

164.4 lbs 
Yoga
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3220507815

RAIN PLUS SUNSHINE PLUS TIME ALWAYS EQUAL HERO DIRT.  That moist, tacky stuff.  The kinda dirt that turns mere mortals into super heroes.

That's the dirt I love.

It keeps me out past my dinner time.

I can't help it, it's too entreating to be denied.

Every turn is a little faster, the bike leaned a little more.

But, there's something more than the obvious tactile and visual feedback from which confidence flows.

Here dirt is quiet.

Weirdly quiet. 

The kinda quiet you don't even notice, but it's there.  Urging us to go faster...

... and faster ... 

... yes, nights like tonight, I'm deeply in love with Mother Earth. 

Does that make me unfaithful?... I dunno.

But, I do know I'm very faithful to the PEDALposse and excited to move into the next phase.  The price is going up next week.

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

---

165.2 lbs 
30 pullups, 104 pushups
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3218807723

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

I WAS NEVER MORE SURE OF THE NEED TO BREAKAWAY FROM BRITAIN THAN TODAY.  The Brits have a deep and romantic passion for long, long, long time trials.

They're proud of this.

They measure them in miles, not klicks.

From their governing body website:
Most races are at fixed distances (10, 25, 50 and 100 miles) or fixed time (12 and 24 hours).

10.  Okay, I've done a few of those on Fiesta Island... even nabbed a state medal once.

25.  I'm not TT'r, so that sounds longish.

50. Uh... no.

100.  Are you nuts?

Fixed time, 12-24 hours....

... well, I was thinking about that today as I headed out to do our TMWC group ride... by myself, because that's the thing do to at the moment...

What possesses the Brits to have such a fascination with said competitions? 
Why torture yourself so?  
Didn't Cav' start off doing those?
Or, Wigo?
Or, Froome?
Or, Thomas?

-> Insert sound of screeching brain cells here <-

If it's good enough for those legends, maybe it's not such a bad idea?

In fact, it turned out to be a pretty darn fun and hard ride. MikeZ entered the course about 30 seconds ahead of me. 

I passed him as quickly and definitively as I could.
But, that gap wouldn't grow. 

Then, he did the same to me. 
But, that gap wouldn't grow.

I made one final pass before The Wall.
But, that gap wouldn't grow.

... and that was okay.  It pushed us on.  Just having each other within 30 or so seconds made things a lot more funner.

Jorge saw our hi-jinx, went and gave it a shot and texted this

Who knows? We just might develop some championship grit if we keep this up.

There was one thing I was missing this morning, and that was my PR Lotion.  For sure, next week I'm lathering up.

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

I hope MikeZ and Jorge aren't reading this, and I hope you get out and chase some PRs.

Use promo code: FREAKINDIESEL

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

---

164. lbs 
50 PullUps
7ish hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3213860103

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

---

Here’s a quick update on things over here with regards to the restrictions we are under:

1. We have answered the call by the government to support essential needs and retooled our workflow to help produce breathing masks medical professionals need – more info.
2. All InStock Orders and Partially Complete Custom Orders are shipping from our Sales office.  I’m personally taking care of that.
3. All pending Custom Orders and Pre-Orders are ready to print – this is 80% of the work.  As soon as we are allowed back online, these jobs will be completed and delivered.
4. The design team is working remote and continuing to prep files for production once we are given the go ahead.

Stay safe.

PETE AND I FOUND THIS KID TO CUT OUR HAIR.  His exuberance for life and hair was magnetic.  He grew up with Brian Lopes, and recycled his stories for us.  But, the best part about this kid was his constant, and I mean constant, use of the phrase...

...Right on!...

Hey man, how's the riding?

Super good.

Right on!

And the family?

They are great.

Right on!

Everything ended with Right on!

Dudes being dudes, Pete and I started saying Ride on! to everything he said.

How's are the ladies treating you?

Oh man, my girl is sweet.

Ride on!

And biz?

You know I love what I do.

Ride on!

Years, decades?, later, we still work it into our conversations with each other.

How's was your trip?

We had a blast.

Ride on!

Did you take your bike?

No, just surf and wife time.

Ride on!

My son sent a text early this morning.  

Back to my normal schedule!! After sleeping in all last week, it feels great to be up before the sun again! Sticking to a schedule is huge—the experts were right!

He's right.

It's time to get back on schedule.

Tomorrow, I'm doing TMWC.  Not with the crew.  Not wise.  Not cool.  By myself.  Back on schedule. It's time to...

... Ride on!

PS... have some fun, work Ride on! into your lexicon.

---

164.6 lbs 
100 pushups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3211898739

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

I WANT YOU TO KNOW, THAT I'M HAPPY FOR YOU.  
I wish nothing but the best for you...

... dawgawnit, it was so great to see so many people out riding bikes this weekend.

They were in every shape and size.
Cruisers
Foldables
BMXrs
and 10 Speeds

A few, like us, working out the base miles, continuing to pull back on the bow with the calendar cleared and no target to hit.

Most, with that goofyEinsteingrin, falling back in love with the wind on their face under their own power. 

My favorites are the kids fulla spunk... the young kids who just realized this sport might just be better than love itself... boys and girls with...

... helmets high, high, high on their foreheads,
runnin' shoes on platform pedals,
grabbing the bars like the bike just might get away...

... I love your energy

My daughter will be joining your throngs. 

She's gonna do a triathlon, not an actual organized triathlon.  Surf for an hour, ride 16 miles, run 3.  Her own numbers.  Her own race.

Where'd you get that idea?

I heard about this girl who trained for a half-marathon and on the date of the cancelled event she just went out and did it.  So, I'm going do my own triathlon.

Here's my chance to get her off to a good start, because she oughta know.  Give her all the pointers a loving DieselDad can give.  Starting with getting her bike dusted off and teaching her the basics...

Maintenance
Nutrition
Handing
Positioning
Helmet placement

Which begs the question... 

Should I just head on down and race the Sagebrush Safari on my own?

Maybe a few of us can drive down separate, do a time trial start.  Set a few course PRs, maybe even get a big cup... could be the start of something new.

Ya know what else could be the start of something new for you?  The mysterious and secretive PEDALposse...

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

... I'm here, to remind you,
to check it out.

---

165 lbs 
Yoga
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3208761197

MORNING GREETED ME WITH MUCHO WORK.  By 10am, I had gone from PJs to kit.  A few more things to do... and at 1215ish I finally got out to stretch the ol' legs... and rest the ol' noggin.

A stunning Spring day.

Everyone was out.

And I had a plan hatching... why not ride up and hit all my 5 favorite climbs in Laguna Beach?

There's the celebrated "7 Sisters".  Seven climbs from sea levelish to a thousand or so feet.  Grades of up to 25%.  But, 3 of the climbs, for me, just aren't that interesting.

So, my plan was the "5 Bros".  5 climbs, just as redonkulous, but with better views and suckyouin architecture.  For the locals:  Alta Vista, Temple Hills, Skyline to Top of the World, Summit Dr to Del Mar to Moulton Meadows Park, Sea Island to Isle Vista.

5000+ feet of climbing in perfect weather by myself.

The legs never tired.  

With no reason other than cleaning the climbs, I found a blissful rhythm.  

An easy sweat bounced off my Wahoo.

I was working, but it wasn't work.  Just joy, at the end of a challenging week.

A verse came to mind, from the Book of The Old Diesel:

If you don't trust me by now... then for heck's sake, trust Emil.  He's a cool cat.

A WEEK AGO WE WERE GOING FOR A CERTAIN, GUARANTEED VICTORY.  Then, we weren't.  Someone hit the brakes, hard!

But, I think we are in a better race now. Maybe you can help?

Nationwide we have health professionals that need a mask to wear over the limited supply N95 masks, which must be changed after each patient visit.

Our factory, as of last night, can only make essential products.

We need to get the word our to the health professionals that we have answered Governor Cuomo's call to supply reusable fabric masks...

... which will help keep our people working.

Getting the word out, that's how we win twice.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/fleece-breathing-mask

THIS IS A FLEECE MASK, which is what Gov Cuomo called for, today, 3/20/2020.

Fleece masks have been shown to be on par with surgical masks for virus protection - 75%.  The N95 mask is rated at 95%.

The CDC recommends changing the N95 mask after each patient is seen.  With the current shortage of masks, medical personal are keeping the N95 on and changing a reusable mask like this between each patient visit.

Our fleece masks should be washed between patient visits and can safely be washed with chlorine.

Here is information from Oxford Academic
-> https://academic.oup.com/annweh/article/54/7/789/202744

Of course, we can make them custom with your company logo.

Please forward to any medical professionals you believe are in need of these masks first.  

Our current capacity is 200/day.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/fleece-breathing-mask

May all our races end in victory.

_____

164.4 lbs 
50 pull ups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3201478353

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

_____

Custom Gear Made in USA - No Minimums – 3 to 4 Weeks Production Time

OH, YOUTH.  THE VIGOR.  THE UNBRIDLED PASSION. 

The first time it felt so good.  The starter said Go!, and I went, and then it was over...

... premature acceleration.

The next time out, surely I'd gotten a handle on things...

... I led right up until the finish line.

Next I tried the long range attack...

... only to drop my bomb a good half mile from the mark.

If you've ever hung your head in frustration at never timing your max just perfect, then this post is for you.

Yes, you, regardless of age or experience, can do better.

You may never win, but there's no reason to misfire your big fire.

So, here are 3 things you gotta do:

• Be a warrior: practice sprint, by yourself.  Go find a nice straight road with at least 4 well spaced light posts.  Roll into the first one at 70%, shift and go faster until the second one, shift and go 9/10ths until the 3rd... here is where the warriors displace the weekenders, go all out to that fourth post.  It's gonna burn, you're gonna wobble, the lungs will be searing and the slobber sloshing.  Be a warrior.
• Own the lights.  Don't just lazily clip in and yawn your way back up to speed.  Grab those bars, snap those cleats, and get to ramming speed as quickly as possible.  
• Latch onto the best.  Those first two will help you with this one.  Find the fastest wheel in your group - a skill you need to hone in and of itself.  Now, every time there is a sprint get on that wheel.  Superglue yourself.  And watch... don't even try and come around or win... just latch on.  Notice how he gets up to speed, how he out maneuvers the others, and how far out he launches this final effort.

These 3 practices are still practiced by yours Diesely, because they work.

Want more?... well, here's the place...

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

I know, it's a little unclear.  There's a reason for that.  For those who join, it's real clear.

---

164.4 lbs 
200 push ups
no ride todau

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

I SNAPPED OFF PRS YESTERDAY, HO-HUMISH.  It's pretty easy to do around here, where nearly every ride spouts countless segments.  Rarely is it worth the time it takes to investigate the digital trinkets.

The real PRs are legendary...

Like our local 9 mile, 3000' dirt climb up Harding Truck Trail.
Or the Alpine Loop in Utah
Or Mount Lemon in Tucson

Since there's no organized racing at the moment, and since 99% of Strava segments are plain silly, now is the time to lay hold on that elusive PR.

Is it an epic climb?
A pancakeflat TT?
The Everest Challenge?

Or, maybe it's just a ridiculous ride like the one I'm looking at, so far and hideous it'd never be done again... The surf of San Clemente to the peaks of Big Bear - A Surf N Summit?

With all the racing being shoved off to the fall, it's a good reminder that the only race that matters is the one against our 2nd best.

So what's it gonna be?
What are you going to go after?
What's gonna keep your fire stoked?

While you're thinking about that, consider this... if you love these posts, you'll probably love the PEDALposse too.

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

I know, it's a little unclear.  There's a reason for that.  For those who join, it's real clear.

---

165 lbs 
arms/shoulders
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3196215427

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

_____

Custom Gear Made in USA - No Minimums – 3 to 4 Weeks Production Time

THE SITUATION I'M ABOUT TO DESCRIBE ACTUALLY HAPPENED, only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.

Motorpacing:  the ages old training method of riding right on the fender of a motorcycle to work on your speed or riding right on the bumper of your team car to catch back up to the peloton.

This wasn't motorpacing.

This was Todderpacing.

I was late, going all out to catch the fellas... and uh-oh, there's one of 'em now... fixing a flat, nearly done.  We get 'im situated and I look into his eyes... we both know I'm a wee bit faster than him and there's only one way we're gonna catch...

You've got to stay right on my wheel!

Okay.

Todderpacing, named after some weirdo, is where the stronger friend goes to the front and the slower friend hangs on.

It's a great way to train for each friend.

The Todder, the rider on the front, must go right at his maximum without dropping the friend.  This requires keeping the power very, very even and smooth and picking the cleanest of lines through turns.  

The friend, the rider hanging on, must stay pegged to the Todder's rear wheel.  Any gap opened up and the friend will be ejected.  The friend must also resist pulling through when feeling rested - often called premature acceleration -  as this will cause the friend to tucker out and get ejected.

Todderpacing is a fine way for two friends of unequal speed to train together and have a ball.

I highly recommend it.

I also highly recommend you check out the PEDALposse.

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

Especially since we changed the look...

... and might I add, especially if you enjoy these emails and want a deeper connection to what we're up to.

I know it's sounds mysterious, but there's a reason for that.

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

---

163.6 lbs 
Yoga
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3192041677

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

_____

Custom Gear Made in USA - No Minimums – 3 to 4 Weeks Production Time

IT'S PRETTY EASY FOR ME TO WHINNY THE LIST OF CYCLNG MOVIES DOWN TO 3.  Frankly there just aren't many to choose from.  That said, there are a few I love.

First, the classic, Breaking Away.  This was my introduction to passionate cycling.  I found it while I was in college.  I was already dating my bicycle, but here came the love affair that has never ended. 

Best line:  I want something American damnit, gimme some french fries! ... I loved that line...

... and boy could I relate to parents that didn't get it. 

My dad made an emergency visit, as cycling had her finger wrapped around my heart.  He was concerned at my weight loss - 162.  All the time riding indoors as snow fell.  Clearly I'd gone mad.

What possesses us?

It's nearly impossible to describe, but it's very obviously and purely romantic.  

Second, A Sunday In Hell.  Is there anything more better than Roger De Vlaeminck and Eddie Merckx pulling up to Paris Roubaix in their own sports cars with multiple bikes mounted to the top?  Both of them gushing with style and confidence.

Their crews anxiously greeting and fawning over them.

Of course, De Vlaemink is on a Gios... the same electricbluewonder I scraped my summer savings to buy in '86.

This documentary is so pure and honest and brutal in the truth of what it means to race.

Third, and don't hate me... well, you can... but...

Third, for me, is the first Rocky movie.  Yes, Rocky! 

From the training scenes to drinking raw eggs to ultimate underdog status... this movie epitomizes why I love the build up as much or more than the racing, and why I love the finish as long as I know I gave it my all.

Silly as it is, it is just amateur racing after all, but on more than one occasion of an epic Leadville or Vision Quest or LoToJa I've crossed that finish line and yelled Susie, Susie, Susie... so glad she's put up with me all these years.

So, there you have it.  As you toil from home and wonder what to do after you've ridden a ton while "working remotely", you can always dig into these classics.

And... if you need to load up on nutrition you know I've got ya covered.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/filler-up

Use promo code FILLERUP to grande

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/filler-up

164.4 lbs 
50 pull ups
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3188728452

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

_____

Custom Gear Made in USA - No Minimums – 3 to 4 Weeks Production Time

I love winning and will do all I can to beat you.  And I mean all I can.  I'll out sleep you, out rest you, out pullups you, out eatbetter you, out maintainmybike you, out health you...

... but, for me it's never been about the gold trinket.  Oh, I like 'em and keep 'em and even frame 'em... because they are a bold reminder that it's always been all about my health... that on a given day I had my optimum athleteness

Social 
Mental
Physical
Spiritual

Our best health is a must to deliver our best results in any situation. 

For me that means my best...

Rest.
Focus.
Strength.
Nutrition.

And I get that by preparing to race my bike.  

Aren't we fortunate to have found a great, lifelong sport and path to great health?

As the most interesting man in the world says, Stay healthy my friends!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ride-your-bike

For the month of March 2020, buy one get one, use promo code RIDEYOURBIKE

... and give it to a friend, or have a back up for yourself.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ride-your-bike

---

165 lbs 
Yoga
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3187309177

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

I'M FEELING QUITE HAPPY GO LUCKY THIS WEEK.  In spite of rain every single day, I managed to get in 7 rides in 5 days.

Kinda like a Hobbit...

... you know first breakfast and second breakfast.

Dodging the rain showers - they were hardly storms - I squeaked in a couple of twoadays.

Today's were great... sticking with the food theme, it was a family sandwich.  Ride in the morning, meet the kid's for lunch, ride in the evening.

With projected midday rain, I grabbed HVY MTL - my gravel bike - and followed a new route to get things started.  That bike has really opened up a whole new world of rides.  It's a more creative kind of riding, following the pull of any trail or road or sidewalk that needs exploring or curb that needs jumping.

For better or worse, with the unpredictable weather, I'm tending to do more soul riding than structured training.  Scratch that, it's definitely for better.  

After surfing the roads and trails around town on HVY MTL, we checked out a new condo the kids are looking at leasing.  It's closer to us.  It's so fun to be part of their lives.  Feeling very lucky about that. Then we showed them the nearby tasty Greek food at Surfin' Souvlaki.

Chris and I met at the bottom of the San Juan Trail at 3pm.  All single track, straight up for an hour.  30 minutes back down.  The top was in the clouds, cold and misty.  Chris pulled the plug after 1 lap.  I went for another..

... it turned out to be the best ride of the week.

When I got back near the summit the cloud had cleared. 

A full sky.

Not a rider around.

Irresistible peace everywhere.

And little ol' me.

Covered in it,

Like the misty dew drops, gently cleansing my soul.

Yep, I'm feeling very lucky.

But, it wasn't luck that kept my water from launching out as Sparky and I were were shredding hero dirt.

No, that bottle stayed put because I have the best water bottle cage ever.

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

WHAT WE SAY:

Been racing these cages for 8 years.  The same cages, taking them from bike to bike.  Nothing - NOTHING - holds a bottle like the Mandible.  If you're racing the bumpy stuff, this is the only cage to get.. Not because it's crazylight, because it works.

Weighs a scant 28 grams.

WHAT THEY SAY:

Mandible is the top Arundel model; its grip is the strongest of all Arundel cages. It's great in extreme situations. Mandible cages have weathered the Grand Tours, the Spring Classics, Worlds, all of it. Durable and elegant.

Here's the dealio... we're putting in an order on Tuesday, will ship about a week later.

Use promo code FRODO

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

Note... I was going to hold off on ordering these until we moved to our new location, but ya know... the rain's gonna stop, the snow's gonna melt, and I'm wanting the best for you.

 ---

164.6 lbs 
Yoga
8 hours sleep - git yer sleep!
https://www.strava.com/activities/3183292600
https://www.strava.com/activities/3184107987

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

Custom Gear Made in USA - No Minimums – 3 to 4 Weeks Production Time

THERE'S THIS WEIRD THING THAT ALWAYS HAPPENS WHEN AN "A" RACE GETS CLOSE.  I don't know if it's the pressure I put on myself or if it's focusexhaustion.  But, it's real.  And, I must deal.

Am I weird?

Yes, Old Diesel... you are weird.  We all are, and we love it.

Oh, that warms my fit and strong heart.

So, here's my deal... I just don't have the fire to get out and ride as the A race approaches and gets more and more real.  The rides seem like drudgery.  It takes conscious commitment to go out and do them...

... but, I do go out...

... and guess what?...

... once I'm out there, within a mile or 5, I'm in the groove and wanna ride all day.

Why is the Sagebrush Safari an A race for me?  

Well,

• The fastest guys in my age group are gonna be there
• The course is fantastic, and while I will lose big time on the opening 7 mile climb
• The descents are ALL perfect for T.O.D - fast and flowy

... "So, you're saying I've got a chance"...

And that's the kind of thinking that gets The Old Diesel fired up - shootin' smoke out the pipe.  The fact it's hardly a given I'll do well, but that I have a chance.

I love that.

When we were young and just getting started SurferGirl found this song, Don't Disturb This Groove.  She played it over and over.  On days like today, it's on my mental sound track.  It just pops up and reminds me...

... once I'm in my groove...

... their ain't no stopping...

So I grab a kit that matches the groove of the day.

Today it's this kit, because Sagebrush Safari is right on the Mexican border... and while it's too high for cactus blooms, there will be plenty of soul searching in a race like this.

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

This is a limited edition kit, and we have not yet hit our 100th kit.

Use this promo code: MYGROOVE ... and the matching socks and t-shirt are free.

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

---

163.6 lbs 
Yoga
7.3 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248/posts

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

_____

Custom Gear Made in USA - No Minimums – 3 to 4 Weeks Production Time

SO THIS MORNING, THE OL' WEATHER APP SAID CLEAR SKYS 'TIL 11.  I looked out across the horizon (we are on a hill and I can see 70+ miles when it's clear) and it didn't appear so good, but apps never lie.  Any hour in, and it's really coming down.

It wasn't the workout I wanted, but 'twas betterthen nuthin'.

Tonight, in between doing my pushup sets, I'm laying everything out for an early morning spin...

... even though the app says rains a comin' again.

I figure the app owes me, right?  And will pay me back with an unpredicted dry spell.

Who's to say if I'm being foolish or faithish by preppring, all I know is...

... luck comes to those who are prepared.

Part of my prep is picking out the right glove for tomorrow.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/100-brisker-gloves

I've been using these gloves all winter, and I really like them.  Today, in the downpour the were perf.

Should you have a little faith in yours foolish, use this promo code:  FAITHISH

https://pedalindustries.com/products/100-brisker-gloves

---

164.2 lbs 
100 push ups
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3177292591

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

PARIS - NICE IS THE FIRST PRO TOUR RACE I'VE WATCHED THIS YEAR, and it seems like a good time to weigh on which teams did a good job on their 2020 kit design.

I'm only going to talk about the top 3 team designs, because the rest are terribleboring.

INEOS - unique colors, clear who the title sponsor is...

These cues of course are not surprising because they are the same eyecatching cues used when SKY exploded onto the scene.  We instantly know which team, and who is the sponsor.

EF - bold colors, first to introduce the fade so many teams have followed... 

Vaughters has a history of bringing in a new design element going back to the early days of his Garmin-Cervelo team with their argyle.  And, I really like what they are doing with the punchy colors and fades.

What you may not know is our designer Joe - creator of the Wild Child designs and others - designed those early kits for Vaughters.

MCLAREN - I know it says Bahrain, but who cares... McLaren man! 

Here are truly striking colors with design nods to the Formula 1 team.  This is my favorite kit for 2020.  I'd like it even better if they could ditch the rest of the sponsors cluttering things up.

What does any of that matter?  Well, not at all unless you're looking for a kickash kit design for your team.

Keep these 3 things in mind:

• Bold Colors
• Striking design
• 1 main sponsor/team name

Even if you have a legacy color, or legacy elements there are ways to tell that story visually that will allow you to stand out.

Sponsors like standout designs, fans like stand out designs... and crew wants that too.

Here's a little side note, business story.

We use to offer free artwork, it seemed like a good thing to do.  But, the problem was it took forever to wrap up a project.

Now we charge, and the projects are not only better designed but done in record time.

No matter what business you're in...

... when people pay, they pay attention.

Here's another one, and it's a lot more relevant to this post...

... when you feel fast, you ride fast.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/feel-fast-ride-fast-available-in-5-colors

We're going to close this design out to make room for our upcoming move.

Use promo code BENIECE...

... and you can have this T delivered for $12.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/feel-fast-ride-fast-available-in-5-colors

---

164 lbs 
31 pull ups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3176063259

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

NOBODY EVERY WON A RACE DRAFTING.  The only way to win is by being in front.  Leading.

Which means taking chances.

Sure we can sit and hide and conserve.  

But, sooner or later we've got to lead or we'll never cross the finish line first.

Which means work.

Working out what it takes to be the leader at the only moment that counts.

Is it sprinting for the win?
Breaking away?
Out cornering?
Out climbing?

There's a million ways to win,
all of them require risk
and commitment
and vision.

None will be accomplished in someone else's draft.

Nor with a rotten drive train,

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-care

This is my go to combo.  Wend's Wax-Off chain cleaner and Smoove's wax-based lubricant.

Super easy, super fast and super clean.

Save with promo code:  OUTTAMYWAY

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-care

164.2 lbs 
Legs/Shouders/100 Pushups
8 hours sleep
rained out

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

WHILE I CAN NEVER SEEM TO REMEMBER WHICH TIME IS THE FAKE ONE, I love it when we spring forward.  The dark mornings don't bug me, the dark afternoons do.  To celebrate, and on the eve of rainmegeddon, I hung the lights and rolled on out at 630pm.

I guess I'm alone in this jubilation.

Or, maybe it was the howling southern wind.

The darkening and cloudy sky.

Because it was a strange ride.

I didn't see another soul out riding.

Not one. 

Looping toward home the first super moon of the year lit up the clouds, bursting through in bits and pieces. 

It's colossalness spreading a peaceful calm across the sky.

To that I add this peaceful kit.  I had Joe design this kit with one objective:  peace.  It was late 2019, and my cyclesense sensed a peaceful kit would be a nice treat for 2020.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace

Order the full kit this week and save with promo code: SPRINGPEACE

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace

---

165 lbs 
YOGA
9 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3168780138
https://www.strava.com/activities/3170122119

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IMAGINE "OLD CALIFORNIA" BEAUTY
- rolling hills, coastal sage brush, granite boulders big and small.

Now add miles and miles of easytopass singletrack
- flowyfastfun trails you dream about and want to ride forever

... I probably shouldn't even post this.

Because now that I've figured out the Sagebrush Safari is the best XC course in Southern California, I want it all to myself.

It's a miracle this race isn't an overrun shyteshow with 2000+ racers on the line ala Leadville and Epic rides...

... it might get that way.

But, I hope not.

I hope it stays in the hundreds and off the radar.

I hope enough people come to be very profitable for Victor, and not one more.

It's too good.

Too fun.

It's also too good and too fun not to share.

So, I'll tell ya what... the first person to share this post on FB, Insta and Strava will get their entry paid for by little Ol' me... unless you're already registered, in that case you can gift it to your favorite pal.

Just shoot me links of your handiwork.

It was rather chilly when we started, 43degrees chilly.

I was glad I'd packed my KOM jacket... you know, the one I designed to wear on days like this.

It was perfect until it warmed up, then I tucked it easily into my middle jersey pocket.

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

So, if you have any days planned with chilly/wet starts you'll want to have this jacket.  It's wind and water resistant membrane is super thin and breathable, yet kept me warm and dry.

Use promo code: SAGEBRUSH

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

WE ALL RODE TO THE TOP TOGETHER, I knew this first descent would be a preening of who's got speed/get outta my way.  So, I let them go.  Gave 'em quite the head start.  Then, I, the dork with Camelbak, proceeded to pick them off one by one.

One gent 'splained how he had to go slow as he was afraid his water bottle would be ejected over the rocky terrain.

I've never seen a Camelbak get ejected - but I have seen a rider get ejected and have his back protected by the liquid-filled bladder.

Another claimed he was bonking because he'd forgotten to drink.

It's so easy to drink and race with a Camelbak - jam hose in mouth, spit out when done.  No futzing about grabbing a bottle the trying to race and drink with 1 hand on the bar then somehow getting the bottle back in the cage... all while negotiating a techy single track.

I'm not saying the Camelbak was the reason I was shredding the DH, but I am saying there's a lot to be said for rocking the Camelbak... 

... it's secure and it's easy.

Which is part of my secret to DH speed. 

I learned it from the unlikeliest of places, a book called Zen and The Art of Archery.  This is an old book, and a quick read.  It's an autobiography of an amateur archer on assignment in Japan who winds up shooting with zen masters of archery.

My big takeaway:  hold onto the bars firmly, all nonessential muscle in your arms should be flaccid. 

That simple skill is so hard to master, seems so trivial, and is a key to uncorking real speed on a mountain bike.

 Speaking of uncorking... what's this dork drinking?

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

I'm a big believer in GQ6.  

I go with 2 scoops in a bottle, or 4 scoops in my Camelbak (50oz).  Basically 2 scoops/hour.  It's about 200 calories per hour.

If you want to check it out, use this promo code:  THEYLAUGHEDATME 

The code will expire soon...

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

---

164.2 lbs
No weights
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3163305576

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IF YOU WANT TO UP YOUR CUTTHROATNESS, cue up F1: The Drive To Survive on Netflix.  It's got racing, it's got drama... and best of all, it's an inside view to what it takes not just to make the team, to win a race, but how you keep you job.

The big AHHA for me was this... every team has 2 drivers, in identical cars.

You know why?

Because the fastest of the 2 is going to keep his job.

Brutal.

Imagine starting every training ride, testing all your equipment, knowing your training partner is doing all she can to beat you... even at the races.

We kind of see it in the highest levels of road racing:  Froome v Wiggins, Movistar's 3 headed monster, LeMond v Hinault etc. 

Tonight, while your doing your pushups or pullups or yoga and getting all fired up watching Netflix' F1...

... who are you planning to slay tomorrow comehellorhighwater?

If you're a killer or feel like it sometimes, this might be the kit for you

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/jailbreak

It's our Speed Jersey Short Sleeve because... SPEED!

And, our Pro Bib because... PRO!

I know those are simplistic, hyperbolic reasons... so let me add all the fabrics are the finest Italy makes, and Italy makes the best.

The sleeves and legs are finished with a wide, comfortable gripper that holds the fabric perfectly in place.

The pad in the bib is rated for racing all day.  It's high-density, which means it doesn't feel like an adult diaper and it won't put your special purpose to sleep.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/jailbreak

This code will expire soon:  F1KILLER 

---

163.2 lbs 
PaddleBall
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3159759357

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

WHO'S CARVED ON MY MOUNT RUSHMORE?  If I owned a granite mountain, and if I was a talented artisan, I'd carve these heads for all to see.  Instead I've carved the ideas and emotions of these four racers into my mind, and in a sense my own body... I'm guessing you've done something similar.

EDDY. 

The great Eddy Merckx gave the greatest advice when asked his secret:  Piles of Miles.  So simple, so true.  Nothing beats time in the saddle.  Ever.  

But, there's more to that for me.  Most know he won the Tour de France a record setting 5 times.  He also one many 1 day classics as well as all kinds of track racing.  If mountain biking was a thing in his time, he'd have dominated that... and forget gravel.

Bonus:  he was merciless, hence his nickname The Cannibal.

LEMOND.

7 seconds.  That's the narrowest victory of the Tour De France ever, and Greg LeMond will own that indefinitely.

I remember watching it on ABC.  It was unbelievable, making up 50 seconds in a short time trial on the last day of the tour. 

Yes, he's USA'n, and first USA'n to win Tour.

But, for me, the impressive part was his belief in himself, that against all France he would win.  

Bonus, he broke the tradition of leaving wife and family at home - family first.

COACH JOE.

Joe Friel wrote the Cyclist's Training Bible.  Finally here was a detailed, workable plan, and I gobbled it up.

I had the pleasure of eating with lunch with Joe a few years ago, and I can tell you he's just as nice and thoughtful as he comes across in the book.

Bonus:  in his 70's he's still totally geeked on cycling... just like us.

SAGAN.

He crushed the competition at his first Tour of California, and I was hooked on his style.

He's a man of and for the people.

After that first ToC he came and raced our local weekly MTB race.  I thought it was just some wannabe in a Cannondale kit.  I lined up next to him, and he was nice as could be... then he disappeared.

Bonus:  he get's a lot of video time on his winning sprints and I've learned a ton watching and rewatching them.

Who's on your Mount?
Who inspires you when you're training, planning, racing?

Sometimes throwing on my kit feels kind of like becoming a different person, probably has something to do with all the inspiration.

By far the best way to change at the races with with the changing poncho.  It's easy, modest, fast.

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

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

And if you act quickly, this promo code will save you a few bucks: MOUNTRUSHMORE

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

---

16.2 lbs 
50 pullups, 100 pushups
8 hours sleep
no ride - today

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I CAN'T THINK OF ANY STATEMENT THAT BETTER CLARIFIES what racing is all about.  And, it's from an actor...that's right and actor... is there anything more fake than acting?  Yet, this actor gets it.

The emotion is real and raw... and resonates through every bone in every realracer's chiseled-on body.

Because... he actually raced.

A lot.

And won.

His words come from that place only people like us have experienced. 
Only a racer gets this. 
It's unmistakably pure. 

Racing is life. 
Everything else is just waiting.
-Steve McQueen

I love that.

For me, it's not that time stops when racing.  
It doesn't exist at all...
... just life.

The inner voice, gone. 
The cares of the world, gone.  

Just me,
my bike,
and my beating heart.

When the finish line is crossed, and the bottles are empty, I tend to want to keep my kit on.  Relish the moment kinda thing.  Sometimes a little longer than I should.

Which is one of the reason, before the race, I like to lube up the area of my crank and cogs.  Somehow that sounds a little pervy, but it's not...

... it's a simple call to action:  Protect thy special purpose!

https://pedalindustries.com/products/chamois-buttr

Personally, I prefer the Eurostyle... but, don't let that sway you... let this sway you:

Chamois Butt'r - Just a dab'll do ya!

And this promo code can sway you too - CHAMOISLOVE

https://pedalindustries.com/products/chamois-buttr

SHIPS FREE IN USA.

---

162.2 lbs 
LegsArmsShoulders
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3155307805

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

THERE ARE A LOT OF WAYS TO GO FASTER, most involve a lot more time training and more money.  Some of those are simple experience.  Take my pal Senor Suave, while a rocket on any bike he keeps losing time MTB racing.

For example, he did one of his first legit MTB races recently.  Everything was on schedule except his bladder.  Most races this is not a big deal, but experienced MTB racers would never make this mistake...

... and when he came back to line up, the corral was full and he found himself 50 people back in the pack.

Pee early.
Line up early.

But, that yellowhighliter ain't my point today.

This little gem requires a teenyweeny bit of time, and maybe a couple of bucks - maybe...

... and I'll be doing it this Saturday.

Preride the race course. 
The more you can preride, the faster you'll go.

You're going to be riding anyway, so ride the course.

Figure out places
to pass
that suite your strength
tricky sections until their easy
and so on and so on and so on
until when you're on it, 
you own it!

What if the course is far away?
Get there a day or two early.

What if it's just a 4 corner crit?
Ride 'em 4 thousand times.

What if....
Makeithappen Cap'n.

Which is exactly what Senor Suave did passing 45ish people, finishing fourth. 
I predict a podium in the very near future for him. 

I also predict a few of you are gonna wanna jump on this before the price goes up.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

---

163.2 lbs 
100 pushups
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3150939306

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

PERFECT, PIOUS UNCLE PHIL WAS ONCE ACCUSED OF SWEARING... impossible to imagine 70 years ago... coming from him.

Dad inquired.

Phil asked Who?

So and so.

Oh yeah... well, it's true.  It was the only way I could get that S.O.B outta bed and out the door to work!

I have found this method quite effective in my own life.

Starting with
Get out of bed you

Followed by
Slow
Lazy
Dumb
Phat

Peppered with saltier fourletterness.
!@#$ 
%^&*

... and always puncuated with
It's time to kicksome@ss!

I ain't ashamed.

I'm committed.

To myself.

My dreams.

My mission.

My health!

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

I'm also committed to making you the softest, mostbestest tshirts so you're confident and comfortable when you let the world know.

Can't make it, Gotta Ride!

Use promo code:  IMCOMMITTED

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

164.2 lbs 
100 pushups
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3148038901

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

WHEN YOU'RE AN ENDURANCE ATHLETE, when you really know how to dig, scrape and claw... you know truth when you see it.  

And, I love this quote from Molly Seidel:

I wasn’t paying attention to the miles or pace and just going off feel and when we made our move I just wanted to keep running the pace I felt good at.

That is truth.

It's why a lot times I'll toss the ol' computer in my back pocket when racing.

And leave it there.

Sure, I like looking at the data when it's all done... but some formats I find it too distracting...

... like any event under 2ish hours.

Who is Molly Seidel?... oh, just the first person who ever ran a marathon and at the same time qualified for the Olympics. 

THE OLYMPICS!

That's right...

... just going off feel...

... 'cause it felt good.

Dawgawn... I love that, gotta say it again:

I wasn’t paying attention to the miles or pace and just going off feel.

Going off feel, isn't that the be feeling?

Ever?

I know what you're thinking... musta been a long time ago, before the "modern age".

Nope.

It was Saturday.

2hours27minutes31second.

... just going off feel.

There's another kind of feeling, it's feeling of feedback I get through my hands.
Personally, I prefer very thin gloves. 
Real leather.
No padding. 
Immense ventilation. 
Full fingers.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves

Yes, I know we should charge a lot more for these.  But, I guess I just want as many people to try them as possible.

Use promo code: GOINGOFFFEEL

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves

---

161.6 lbs 
REST
9 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3146160956

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I RECENTLY SAW A THREAD ASKING HOW TO RIDE SAND SECTIONS AT BWR.  Numerous longworded discussions followed.  Here's my simple truth:

1.  Ride more sand.

 Nothing is going to make up for actually riding sand... so if you don't live by a lovely beach, get down to the local play ground...

... practice.

2.  Aim for 10' beyond where the sand ends.

I think it was Moses who said Where there is no vision the people perish.  Whoever shared that ancient advice woulda been a heckuva gravel/mtb racer.  Because if you're looking straight down and not far forward you're gonna perish...

... look where you want to go.

If you just did those 2 things you'd be an ace in no time.  

There are two more essential techniques which you'll probably figure out with enough practice.

However, if you want to cut to the chase you'll need to click here:

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

---

161.6 lbs 
no lifting
10 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3143368168

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I WAS ON THIS DIET YESTERDAY, and I lost 5 lbs.  It's a terrible diet.  One you should turn to only as a last resort.  But, it's nearly impossible to even try it on purpose.  Not that you should.  You could.  But, I wouldn't.

This diet is so debilitating I couldn't race today, even though I'm the lightest I've been in a year.

Weight down, power way down.

So I'm here.

On the couch, recovering.

It's the El Pollo Loco foodpoisoning diet... at least that's who I'm giving credit to, 'cause against my monklike ways I ate there Thursday - in a hurry, making things happen.

Spent all day Friday praying to the porcelain god - 12am on baby!

I'm on the mend today.

Surfergirl picked up a pack of donuts at my insistence... I knew I'd be better soon, and wanted something delicious to look forward to.  And, boy do they taste great!

I can't resist... I guess, because I'm going to get up and ride for a bit at some point today and I know I'll be needing lots of fuel in my Ferris Bueller I'msuddenly better moment.

Here's what I'll be chowing on my ride.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/filler-up

Use promo code FILLERUP to save.

Isn't it great to open the cupboard and see you're loaded up with all the fuel you need for the next ride?

---

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/filler-up

160.6 lbs 
No lifting
12 hours sleep
No ride.

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

LAST NIGHT I PATIENTLY WAITED TO TURN LEFT IN MY CAR.  The light turned green, I looked left and eased off the brakes rolling forward... I looked left again and hit the brakes!

A truck traveling about 50mph blazed through the red.... probably would have killed me...

... if I didn't have the bike racing superpower.

But, I do.

And so do you!

We all have Cyclngsense,
it's our version of Spidersense.

We use it all the time, every ride.

The more we ride, the stronger it gets.

The experienced rider rarely flats, new guy flats all the time.

Cyclingsense.

New gal struggles on a trail, experienced gal attacks it with glee.

Cyclingsense.

Driving experiences like mine above happen all the time, our Cyclingsense is so attuned we often don't even recognize it.

Same with sports, we quickly pick up any motion sport... our fitness, our developed peripheral vision, our Cyclingsense making it easy.

Socially too.  We casually strike up a conversation with a fellow rider and our Cyclingsense quickly evaluates friend or foe.

Because 99% of drivers lack Cyclingsense, I ride with blinking lights day and night.

I love the little Knog lights,
330 degrees of retinasearing power.

It's like giving Cyclingsense to the drivers.  

And isn't that a gem of an idea?

If you don't have daytime blinkies get these.
They're lite and aero.

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

  Use promocode -> KNOGCyclingSense <- to save 20%

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

... this code will expire within 48 hours.

---

165.2 lbs 
200 push ups
7.5 hours sleep
no ride today : (

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

(photo by Danny Munson)

WHAT MOTIVATES ME MORE THAN ANYTHING WHEN IT COMES TO BIKE RACING PREP is making sure none us ever utter these 3 words on RaceDay.  Nothing is more deflating, defeating or defanging.

I forgot my __________.

The results can be...

embarrassing... I've raced in my bathing suit and tank top.

inconvenient... I've borrowed a friend's sweattystinky backup helmet.

disastrous... I even forgot my shoes once.

... heck, doesn't even have to be a race...
... might just be a road trip with the crew. 

Which is exactly why I invented the RaceDay Bag™...

• Easy to pack
• Easy to find our gear
• Easy to get ridin' and racin'

Kicking boodwah on a bike starts with confidence, like knowing you've got everything you need.

But why stop there?

Want to know what it's in my bag, what I trust... depend on?

I thought it was impossible for a lotion to make any kind of a noticeable difference in race performance...

... then I podiumed at a race where I'd always sufered,

and set a PR of 8:15 at Leadville!

I'll neverever race again without PR Lotion.  

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

Follow the application instructions... be sure to put on a lot, and really massage it in!

When you place your order use this promo code: AMPSAVE10

... I was reminded of how great this product is just yesterday on our regular legripping group ride when Justin said, 

You're riding great.

Now those are 3 words I always want to hear!

---

That code will expire soon.

---

164.6 lbs 
LegsShoulders
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3135299216

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production tim

AS WE WERE SLICING AND DICING OUR REGULAR SOCIALRIDE/LEGDESTROYER THIS MORNING, I catalogued the 3 riders I  admire most.

Don't get me wrong, I'm a total Saganfanboy, worshipped LeMond's 7-second TdF win, and have relived Grewal's gold medal countless times... but, I don't ride with them.

I ride with these cats:

Takeshispulls guy. 
This rider rotates through to the front, takes his pull and eases over and off the power, doing all he can to keep the group's pace fast and smooth... never mucking it up, sucking wheel at the front.

Standsupsmooth girl. 
The girl stands gracefully stands up on climbs, often... never thrusting the bike back, scaring - or worse - the rider behind.

Pointsstuffout kid. 
This kid is always pointing out the holes, sticks, glass, etc... making sure the riders behind avoid peril.

These 3 make rides like today's trulytruly glorious.  

So, I study their moves and do my best to mimic them... 'cause when I'm all growed up I wanna be just like 'em

You know what else is trulytruly glorious?...

... this right here -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

Truly.

 ---

165.4 lbs 
50 pull ups
6.5 hours sleep 
https://www.strava.com/activities/3131287462

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I REMEMBER THE FIRST TIME I FOUND THE NOCARS WAY THROUGH TOWN.  There were cars, but not many.

I rode and rode and rode that route.  Mostly on Mondays, always by myself.

It was scenic, with a few punchy hills to stand up and pound the pedals.

But, then I didn't ride it much.  I'd ridden it too much.

It had become...

... Familiar.

No, it wasn't breeding contempt, but it was... 
Mundane.
Predictable.
Uneventful.

Conversely, we ride the same loop every Tuesday, going on 17 years.  It's always good.

Gus lives out in NC.  He sent me a pic of their Saturday ride.  The leafless trees, bundled riders.  The smiles.  It was 18 when they started, 40 midday.

It ain't the route or the weather, it's the people.

Which is why it's so key to have a silent chain, spinning free with no drag.  'Cause if your chain is whiney with lots of drag... sooner or later you'll be riding alone.

These are my go to products - one to clean, one to lube.  It took years time to find them, and I'd never mount up without them.  

The superpro thing to do is to wipe the chain clean and apply the lube the night before - one link at a time.  Painstaking, I know... but totally worth it if going fast is important to you.  And, when done correctly will last hundreds of miles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-care

Use this code at check out - SOSMOOTHE - and save 50% on the 2nd item.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-care

---

165.2 lbs 
PushUps
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3128568351

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I FINALLY GOT AROUND TO FINISHING PHILTHETHRILL GAIMON'S BOOK, Pro Cycling On $10 A DAY.  He concludes with two valuable lessons.

First, keep the workouts simple.

Phil's hardest training block ever was two weeks with Tom Danielson on Mount Lemon in Tucson.  I've ridden that climb myself... think of a long, long, long very steady climb.  Day one, 3 sets of 20 minute intervals... followed by 5 hours of easy riding.  Day two, 3 sets of 45 minute intervals.  Day three, rest or long and easy.  Then start over.

Second, you've got to believe in yourself.

This was painfully drilled into Phil's selfjustifyingbrain by Jonathan Vaughters, before Vaughters signed him to ride for Garmin.  Phil had lost crucial seconds and wound up losing GC, was bummed about it.  Rather than being consoling, Vaughters wisely rubbed acid in that wound remind Phil to believe in himself.

... normally I've got a bunch of pithypontification about right now, but not today...

Keep it simple.
Believe in yourself.

Here's a simple secret you may not know -> larger water bottles are more aero than small bottles... because they fill in the gap better and reduce wind turbulence.

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

I believe you should take advantage of this promo code prior to 2/26/2020

SAVE15

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

Yes, they still ship free if you use the code.

---

165.2 lbs 
rest
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3126596854

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I COULDN'T HEAR THE SKIN GRINDING OFF, the rain too heavy.  I couldn't see the damage, the shadows too dark.  I couldn't feel the gash, the cold too stiff.  But, in my shivering hustle off the mountain I overcooked a corner... my lower leg grinding across the decomposed granite hillside.

That wasn't the plan.

We'd missed perfection by about 30 minutes.

Up until that Makita grinder moment, we'd cheated mamanature. We'd slept in, done our dadly duties. While the morning rain fell on our favorite dusty trail.

When we started, it was purrrrrfect... super tacky, traction o'plenty.  6 miles to the top, 2200', all single track... purrrrrfect single track.

We climbed it once, decently fast, under an hour. 

Ripped down.

Climbed it again.

It seemed like a good idea at the time.  But, when we got to the top the clouds came in and the temperature dropped.

Even with the incomparable KOM jacket, I was cold.  A beanie and leg warmers woulda helped... oh, and a light!

But... but... we'll ALWAYS remember today.  It will stand out.  One of those, Remember that time moments.  Unforgettable.

So maybe it did go according to plan?

... come to think of it, if I'd worn the leg warmers they'd be a little worse of but my leg better off...

I'd say 20% better off... so use this promocode TODDSPOORLEG to save 20% on these leg warmers/skin savers

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-leg-warmers

Use TODDSPOORLEG at check out

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-leg-warmers 

In the cloud, time to hustle down.

---

164.4 lbs 
50 pull ups
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3123719136

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

SURE, IT'S A HECKUVALOT EASIER 30, 40, 50 RIDERS BACK.  It's 30% easier!  And that's the problem in a lot of cases.

Wanna get "lucky"?...
... get your buns up front.

Don't come whining to me with silliness like...

... you were lucky to make the break
... you were lucky you missed the pile up
... you were lucky in that sprint

Sheesh... I remember the one and only time I did Tour de Tucson.  There were about 7000 people lined up.  

Gun goes off.

I'm redlined instantly.

We are flying through town.

All kinda chaos.

But, I'm upfront and I can see.  And I'm safe.

Unfortunately, when things settled down a bit I drifted back and a break of 20 went away.  Full gas.  I'm thinking, not a big deal.  90 miles to go.  Then, I see the longest train I've ever seen in my life chugging along...

... and those guys are all in, ALL IN!

Like a scripted scene from a Bond movie they squeeze across the tracks, the gates come down, we screech to a halt.

They were never to be seen again.

If you need more luck in your life ya really oughta check this out...

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

... but don't you dare click on that link if ain't in need.

---

165.4 lbs 
yoga
7.2 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3119578048

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IN THE IMMORTAL WORDS OF NACHO LIBRE... Sometimes when you are a man, you wear stretchy pants.

I was reminded of that today as I headed out for a quick sunset blast... Sometimes when you are a racer, you ride two-a-day.

Why 2, today?

Because CH texted... Gonna rain Saturday, 80% chance.

Why 2, other days?

Because why not?
Because fun.
Because...

... did you know every time you work out you get a shot of Human Growth Hormone?  I read it somewhere.

So, when you see yer peers and they say something like... 

Damndude, you're looking good...
or...  Damngirl, look at you...
How do you do it?

... two-a-day.

It takes a lot of energy to fuel all that riding, and I like a variety of options like this

https://pedalindustries.com/products/honey-stinger-pack

Save big with promo code TwoADay. 

Ships free in USA.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/honey-stinger-pack

---

168.2 lbs 
Yoga
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3118086373

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

ONE OF THE THINGS I AIM TO DO is get the very best value for any purchase.  So, when I saw some cat advertising an amazing wallet for cycling I had to check it out...

... the hyperbolic promises were too great.

There it was, $50.  It was beautiful, all leather.  Very elegant.  Perfect for anything except actually cycling.

It reminded me of my first bibs, Blackbottoms.  The chamois was actually leather, and so were my bits and pieces after that first summer.

Being a poorcollegekid, I could scant afford 1 bib.  

I'd ride, wash, hang dry, repeat 3-4 times a week.

By summer's end they were sanctified - very holy.

Where was I?...

Oh yeah, wallets and the most humble cycling wallet of all times. 

• Made of actual bike parts
• Impossibly durable
• Military grade thread
• So grippy it will never fall out of your jersey

Delivered to your door for 20 bones

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wallets

... or less if you use promo code SAVE10, 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wallets
(I have 10 cards and cash in mine)

Customizable?

Of course... makes a great conversation piece, reminder of what's important, and a supergift for your sponsors.

If you don't have one in your team store, let me know and we'll get it added. 

---

166.8 lbs 
LegsShoulders
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3115341348

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

COMFORT FOOD... is there a bigger lie?

After nearly a week with family celebrating the life of a loved one, I'm a bigfatpig... and it's my owndarnfault.

Comfort food was abundant, mass quantities everywhere.  

When I woke up this morning, finally back home, I waddled to the scale. Ugh!  5lbs in 5 days.  

It got me thinking about the old miserylovescompany thing... and is there anything more miserable than climbing with blubberstuffed bibs?

Of course, some would like company in such moments...
... but, not me...
... heck no...
... leave me alone, with my own thoughts of whattheheckwasIdoing?

I'm sure there's some sort of championshipthinking of paying the price today for victory tomorrow, you know a valuable life lesson summed up in a few choice words... but, let's just be honest... it ain't comfort food, it's...

DisComfort Food

Rant concluded.

The good news is, there's nowhere but down from here.. and if you're down with that then you're probably also down with joining the PEDALposse.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

---

167,6 lbs 
0/0
6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3111153557

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

THE 10 RACER COMMANDMENTS 

1. Thou shalt ride thy bike as much as thou canst whilst placing thy family and thy social life first, and whilst thou kickist butt at work.
2. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor’s KOM, but thou shalt chase thine own PRs.
3. Thou shalt eat whole foods whenever possible.
4. Thou shalt sleep 8+ hours.
5. Thou shalt be strong, doing pushups, pullups and such to failure.
6. Thy bike shall be clean, thy drivetrain free of drag, thy tires properly pumped.
7. Thy wheels, above all other parts, shall be the best thou canst pay cash for.
8. Thy jersey and bibs shalt make thee feel fast.
9. Thou shalt train with faster riders than thee whenever possible, and thou shalt train at the front of thy congregation.
10. Thou shalt have a day of rest, no riding. If standing sit, if sitting lie, if lying prop thy feet up, if they feet are propped close thine eyes and dream of winning.

Eleven... I could go on and on pronouncing from on high, if ya want more go here:

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

 ---
(still travelin')
unknown lbs 
nada
7ish hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3109428288

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

I'M VISITING THE PLACE WHERE IT ALL STARTED FOR ME.  Provo, UT.  Sure, I'd ridden my Schwinn LeTour around town as a kid, and I'd won the 6th Grade Motocross on my Stingray- which we'd call a Super-D today, but it wasn't until 1985 that I won a legit bike race.

It wasn't even legit, really.

The university ski coach had set up a cycling program centered on crit racing in the giant stadium parking lot.

It was here that I got my most valuable bike handling lession:  never let go over the brakes and always keep pedaling. 

What he was teaching us was how to keep our speed up and be smooth in a pack vs the typical beginner who stops pedaling and yanks on the brakes at the slightest concern.

Each weekday crit I got a little closer to the win.  The throwdown of the C's spint was intoxicating, and I wanted more.  On about the fourth or fifth try it worked...

... the passionate, mediocre surfer
... the weak link on a terrible tennis team
... the obscenely late bloomer with his first whiskers at age 21

... got a V.

And, as PhilTheThrill Gaimon says... it just takes one good day to start thinking.

I promptly spent my summer's hard earned cash on a Cannondale touring bike that some yokel in a struggling bike shop conned me into buying because "more gears = more options for speed".  

It didn't matter.

That bike took all the punishment I could could give it, and was stable as hell at speed.  I'm talking I-80 from Park City to Salt Lake drafting a semi at 60 mph with a t-shirt, cut offs, and a sweet pair of Vuarnets.

I was hooked.

For life.

Speaking of hooked, after skiing and hiking in the mountains the last few days I'm reminding how hooked I am on layers for keeping warm.  It's the best way to go, which I confirmed catching up with my pals that live up here.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers

Starting with the KOM jacket... and if you use code KOMLAYER...

... and add any other layer product you'll save 50% of the 2nd product.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers

Code KOMLAYER will be applied on checkout, remember to add the 2nd item first.

---

unknow 
nada
8.3 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3106753719

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

A REAL GIANT TAUGHT ME A VALUABLE LESSON.  It's not enough to be the biggest and the strongest.  That's not a guarantee of winning. 

This was laid out in the classic movie The Princess Bride.

Fezzik played by Andre The Giant - 7' tall, 500 lbs.
vs
Westley - a normalsized Man In Black.

Fezzik: I just figured why you give me so much trouble.

Westley : Why is that...

[squashed against a rock] 

... do you think?

Fezzik : Well, I haven't fought one person for so long. I've been specialized in groups, battling gangs for local charities, that kind of thing.

Westley : Why should that make such a

[squashed painfully] 

... difference?

Fezzik : You use different moves when you're fighting half a dozen people, than when you only have to be worried about one

[falls unconscious] 

It's impossible to learn to learn to win a group sprint by yourself...
It's hard to ride single track with someone much slower...
No one can figure out how to draft riding alone...

... as the giant said, You use different moves.

I remember the first time a saw my friend in real cycling shorts.  Lycra.  Not just any short, they were red.

Outrageous I thought.

And held up by suspenders!

Now I wouldn't dream of heading out for a ride with anything but a supremely designed bib like this: 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/black-19-team-pro-bib

100% Italian fabric.  An anatomical chamois with multidensity foam.  Printed, but and sewn in our own California factory.

---

164.2 lbs 
nada
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3103441547

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT A SCREWYOU FUND IS... welllllllll junior, it’s enough cash to go at least 6 months without a check.  And, it equals confidence.

There are other types of screwyou funds.

When - waywayway back when - I was single, I strove to have a number of options... ya know, just in case things went off the rails at a socially inconvenient time. (Easy there, it’s a figure of speech.  Not literal)

We, you and me, we have fitness screwyou funds...

... and I'm making a withdrawal.

No riding the next five or six days.

Starting this morning... skied for the first time in a coupla decades, you know a board for each foot vs a snowboard - which I've done less and less. 

My nubby bikerlegs vs my college girl's dancerskierlegs...

... it was pretty even until around 330pm.  We'd been going straight through, old school on nothing but Snickers bars.

Finally... 

Dad, I'm tired.

I feel great.

Last run?

Up to you.

Truly a wonderful DaddyDaughter Valentine's Day.  Such fun to catch up with her on life.  I'm feeling quite blessed to enjoy a day like today.

... and that’s how to use the fitness screwyou fund.

 Of course, sometimes you want to unleash your screwyou fitness in the heat of battle and might be looking for a little inspiration.

Personally, I always feel a little more ready to battle on the bike when I don these camo socks

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-socks/products/camo-sock-sublimated

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-socks/products/camo-sock-sublimated

$15.99 and they'll be on your doorstep in a couple of days.

---

unknown lbs 

nada
7 hours sleep

https://www.strava.com/activities/3099831660

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

 We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IT’S CALLED PAYSHUNCE FOR A REASON

WAIT, WAIT, WAIT, WAIT, WAIT... the overhead view of a Peter Sagan sprint is always my favorite.

Man can he wait.

The barreling peloton screams into the final Kms and he’s miles back.

Payshunt.

One time, some cat put together a bunch of different on onbike camera views of a Sagan sprint.  Switching from front view to back view and back as he roared...

... accelerating as the rest were detonating...

... which is why he’s payd the big bucks.

Payshunce is a superpower.

Use it, or lose.

Even going after a PR, which can require the greatest payshunce of all.  Because the right PR will demand our very best.

In case you need a daily reminder

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule

And if you use promo code PRSRULE, it's in your hands for a paltry 18 bones.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/prsrule

I believe in you!

---

164.2 lbs 

nada
6.5 hours sleep

https://www.strava.com/activities/3096630631

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IF IT'S TO BE, it's up to ______.

If it's really up to me, then I better take it for reals.

That's why every year I put the big hairy audacious goals (BHAG) out there, to inspire me to carve the time I need to be ready on the big day.  Things like PRing Leadville last year, or going to Nationals this year.  

Really big.

Impossible.

The result is even on the days I don't wanna, the cold days, the booked solid days, the dark days, the rain days... I get out and ride.

Yes, of course part of the plan is to be a badass on the given day and slay my BHAG... but...

... the bigger part of the plan...
... the sneaky part...

... is the daily result: a healthier, happier, immensely more productive me.

It's a simple system, and it yields undeniable results.

We get really granular on the system with the PEDALposse, where we share what's working and what's not.

Join us!

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

Join us before the price goes up in March.

How much?  I dunno... but, can't be giving it away fo' evah.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

_____

164.4 lbs 
legs n shoulders
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3094056015 <- snagged a KOM back - not that it matters.  Right?

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

ONE OF THE PLACES PEOPLE REALLY SUFFER ON A ROAD RIDE is when the group accelerates time after time.

I was reminded of this on today's ride... and the exercise I do at home to prep for days like today.

It was hellawindy. 

30mph gusts. 

Hella.

To make matters worse, it was the first week back splitting our little legripper into an A and a B ride.  Leaving just a handful of us to slice the wind together on the A loop.

Our rotation started smooth enough, but after about 15 minutes of really drilling it things started to fall apart.  The discrepancies in power between riders became evident, as stronger riders pulled hard and long and weaker riders clogged the front often unable to even pull through for a millisecond.

So, I have this little routine I do a few times a week.  It may or may not be helpful at all... but, it's kinda hard which is always good for building confidence.

It's simple.

Requires no tools.

And, probably doable in your own home.

Remember, I am not a doctor nor any kind of certified anything.  Do not do this if you are timid, unsure or a total klutz... though, if you think you'll fall please take video and post for the entertainment value.

Are ya ready?

Stand flatfooted at the bottom of a set of stairs and jump up 3 at a time. 

Probably best to start at 2 at a time... and I've had limited success jumping 4 at a time.  Repeat until failure (can't do more).

That's it.

Please, please, please be careful... and remember you're on your own.

Advice given.  

Here's another piece of advice... not for you, hopefully.  But, something you might want to share with a friend.

You should probably get a RaceDay Bag™.

Why?

Because you're always wondering where your gear is.

No I'm not.

Then, why are you asking to borrow my extra glasses?

I guess that could be advice for you too... friends don't let friends show up unprepared - especially if they don't want to loan their stuff.

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

Remind them to use promo code SAVE10.

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

---

165.4 lbs 
  push ups.
6.8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3091073638

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IT'S NOT THAT I'M A GUINEA PIG.  I'm not.  Once I find something that works, I stick with it.  

It's not that I'm unwilling to change, I test things all the time.

What am I then?... a dude has cracked the code on a lot of what it takes to go fast on a bike.

I could force a bunch of my results down your throat, like the fact I've been a national champion twice. 

But where's the fun in that?

What's fun for me is when a cat like DH asks a question like this...

What kind of electrolytes do you use/ sell?

And I reply...

Here’s what I use:  https://pedalindustries.com/collections/electrolytes

I was in a hurry and should have added more... DH, I hope you're reading:

For all racing/hard training I strive for 300 calories per hour.  

Road/Gravel, I like 2 scoops of GQ6 in my bottles, and another 100 calories via Honey Stinger Waffles or Chews.

MTB, I get all my calories through the bottle if it's a short XC race... the flavor can be a bit strong, but the racing is so intense I find it impossible to eat.  A epic event like Leadville I'll eat more like the roadie above.

For adventures, I go with 1-1.5 scoops per bottle and eat as much as I feel like.

For recover rides, pretty much just water.

The other product on that link Salt Stick chews... and my hot tip for taking those is something I'll be sharing with the PEDALposse...

... check it out: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

We're just launching the PEDALposse, I should let you know the price is going up soon.

 _____

163.8 lbs 
50 pull ups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3089585174

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

THERE'S ONLY 1 KIND OF BAD TRAINING DAY...

It's not fell and got a booboo,
Not rode too hard,
Nor rode too easy,
Not gotta a flat,
Not had to cut 'er short,
Not no one else could go,
Not got stuck in the rain,
Not lost Zwifting,
Nor any kind of weatherforced trainertime,
Not resting, if that was your plan...
... the only way, is to not train.

Today I rested, according to plan, and took a walk along the beach.

It also rained, and I loved that.  The sinisterside of me relished the thought of the locals who'd planned a big day staying off the bike.   

I hope that wasn't you... but, if it was maybe you just needed an extraawesome windandwater resistant KOM jacket?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/komglove

If that's the case, and you're the patient type, then I'd like to make you one of these awesome jackets. 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/komglove

And we'll throw in a pair of these gloves for free when you use this promo code: KOMGLOVE.

Go here: 
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/komglove

Use this:
KOMGLOVE

Who loves ya?

---

163.8 lbs 
Stretching
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3086679887

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

IT'S 650AM, SUB-40 DEGREES, FOGGY AND WET... I'm smartly outfitted in what some might consider pajamas.  I'm also late.  Going full gas.  Railing the turns.  Jumping curbs.  Shortcutting through ShoreCliffsElementary.

If I don't catch the crew at 705, I'm... How do you say in this country?...  Ehscrewed!... chasing 20+ miles, just to catch the even faster group.

So started the first 70 miles of my ride... of which I felt absolutely fantastic.

I'd woken up with pleeennnnnty of time.  PLENTY!.  530AM.  But, I was so groggy I completely lost track.

There was one thing I did right.  I got that darn PR Lotion on, and thick.  No, this is not a commercial for that magical potion... but, it is  a tiny lesson for me to check the source.

Last night I was skimming YouTube and noticed I had a few notifications.  One was from Tony and it was a nasty review on my review of said lotion.  It really bugged me, because I have shared the product with so many people and all results are 2thumbsup.  I tossed and turned all night, which is probably why I woke so early.  Then I had this genius idea...

... is he even a customer of ours?

No.

I'll leave it at that.

Anyway, that first 70 was pretty magical.  I felt really good.

There's a longcut on the ride called Old Mojeska.  It's a real kick in the teeth, coming after a lot of climbing.  Few do it, though I sell the hell out of it any time I do the ride.  It's very, very steep. 

It's smack in the middle of a 17.25 miles stretch with 2000' of climbing, called RR-Old Moj-Silverado.

I knew I was going good, and I'd done my best to surf the fast guys to the longcut.  Most of them went straight to regroup at the big oak tree.  I turned right with 2 bravecourageous souls.  We hit it as best we could, dropped down the other side... little Rayan, can't weigh more than 110 lbs, struggled to keep up on the decent.  We came around the corner, saw the resting group taking a smoke break... and I dieseled on.

They eventually caught me, and we worked hard to finish the last big climb of the ride.

I PR'd it!

But I don't want you think this is a commercial for PR Lotion... because there's a tiny lesson for you my friend.

All that climbing?... I felt strong and connected.

So get if you haven't already drop and give me 20!... seriously, do your push ups and pull ups.

Because even if you do succumb to my Jedi marketing tricks and in a moment of weakness purchase PR Lotion...

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

... you're still going to be a weakling riding around looking like a T-Rex... and we can't have that can we?!

Friends don't let friends ride weak. 

Usually I insert some sort of promo code to go along with blatant sales pitch... but this wasn't blatant, it was just me telling it like it is.

You know what though?  I really like telling it like it is... if you buy the lotion this t-shirt will ship free - you just need to purchase them both and apply this code: PRsRULE

We do a lot that tellingitlikeitis stuff here: 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse

Oh, I forgot to tell you how long and lonely the last 35 miles were of the ride...

They weren't!... because I fueled up, in remembrance of our Hawaiian Nana.

 ---

165 lbs 
Just stretching today
6 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/3083723694

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.

MY SWEET, SWEET MOTHER-IN-LAW passed away last night.  It was overdue, but we will still miss her uplifting spirit.

I rode alone, mistyeyed and laughingtomyself... all the emotions, reflecting on her influence in our family's lives.  These are the rides we all need from time to time, and they're best solo...

... stopping along the way.

---

Good things happened all day long, credit to her.

Scott called to say he'd received 2 bags... one should have gone to Alvin... which was great because Alvin called to say he couldn't track his order.  They live nearishby each other.

Nancy and Neal joined the PEDALposse.

Two new teams took the time to email me and let me know how lovely it is to work with designer Rocky.

... and Shane reminded me that he and Abbey and friends are coming over tonight to watch Abbey dominate on Ellen's Game of Games - it's finally airing.

As I wind down the day, I'm feeling very blessed to have known a great lady... her gravelvoiced husband parted long ago and I'm reminded of Johnny Cash's rendition of In My Life.

---

... a while back, she told us a new story...

I used to sunbathe in the nude on top of our house.

No!

Yes, I was always worried Momma would catch me.

Such a Wild Child!

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

If you're feeling a little wild, this is a pretty good place to start

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

If you've never heard this version Johnny recorded it just after June passed... it's an old Beatles song.

164.4 lbs 
180 push ups
6 sleepless hours
https://www.strava.com/activities/3079938325

TODD brown      888-308-0005      PEDALindustries

We specialize in custom gear - No minimums – 3 to 4 weeks production time.