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Todd’s Journal
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Get RaceDay Ready
WHAT I KNOW ABOUT GOAL SETTING
WRAPPING UP THE YEAR, is a lot like wrapping up Christmas presents. We have these memories and milestones...
... to look back on later.
Gifts to ourselves.
What if we knew what gifts we'd be wrapping up for ourselves next year?
Would we plan our 2026 calendar differently?
Change up our goals...
... if their accomplishment was a given?
Now that you've done that little thought experiment, I'll share this with you.
The biggest accomplishments in my past were never concerned with...
- little details
- strategies
- tactics
... only What.
From there it was just a matter of making it real.
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
510 Anti-Oxidant Score
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
HR TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
THERE'S NOTHING QUITE LIKE the joy of climbing with friends to a distant peak and poking through the clouds. Summiting is like having...
... the top of the world to ourselves.
All is calm.
Bombing down the mostly unfamiliar other side...
... not so calm.
Heaven forbid we'd let a gap open and get left behind.
Already on the edge of grip, I came into a sweeping lefthand turn...
... a negative radius, sloping downward.
I drifted all the way wide to the soft bulldozed berm.
Exiting, it was nothing but steep with ruts and rocks competing for my attention.
It wasn't looking good.
Somehow I managed to wiggle through the gauntlet.
My HR now sky high.
Only one thing to do, let out a huge...
... WOOOOHOOOOO!!!
Sheesh, my heart skipped a beat just reliving and writing this.
It.
Was.
Awesomeness.
Had I gone down,
I wouldn't have died.
But, it woulda been a bloody mess firshur.
Glad I kept my eyes open
and arms relaxed,
the tires held...
... just another reason to be grateful this time of year.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/96/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WHO KNEW WE WERE THAT BAD?
THE PROGRESS WE MAKE can be kind of embarrassing. We don't know it at the time. In fact, we're having so much fun those early pics and vids...
... can be kind of embarrassing.
There's hope.
Bad athletes,
can get good.
Good athletes,
can be great.
Great athletes...
... know the secret.
Keep doing it.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/82/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
THE OTHER 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
A LOT OF US plan to do some superspecialsecret training when nobody is looking in the coming days. Some are going so far as to...
... do the outrageous.
A gift to ourselves.
Which reminds me of one my pals who each year would ride a century 12 days in a row.
That was his goto way to start the year with a bunch of base miles.
Of course, the family and friends all thought that was...
... akin to getting coal for Christmas.
Personally, my overarching diabolical (counter season or counter intuitive?) plan is to...
- play around on jumps and technical stuff
- catch up with friends
- have fun
... make the training count.
What are you planning for 12/25 thru 1/6
While you're thinking about that...
... I'm sharing this kit with you in the off chance you're looking so spoil yourself with something outrageously sexy...
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Or, 50% savings here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
IS IT TOO LATE TO GO PRO?
THE SALARIES of the tops pro seem fantastic. The lifestyle unbeatable. Who doesn't want to get...
... paid to train and travel the world?
Sign me up.
But...
... it's too late, you're too old, you lack talent, you don't have time, you're too young, your equipment sucks, your friends and family won't approve, you'll nevereverver freakin' make it...
... SILENCE!
Though we may not get paid,
our travel will be less exotic,
we can still focus on...
- a specified activity
- honing our craft
- doing our best
... it's never to late to be pro.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WE WON THE LOTTERY!
WE DON'T DREAM enough. At least most of us. When we do, and I'm not talkin' 'bout shut eye...
... we change our state.
Great things are suddenly possible.
I was reminded of this yesterday...
... my son was going to buy a lottery ticket.
He does this when it's over a billion.
I told him how much...
- it allows us to dream
- things we'd change
- do or never do
... I love and hate the lottery.
Name one thing you'd do?
I'd never get up to an alarm clock again?
Later, I reflected on my greatest day on the bike.
In 2022.
The insane Leadville goal of...
- a PR
- sub-8 hrs
- at age 60
... and how I did it.
The dream of sub-9 at sixty started years prior.
Always in the back of my mind.
But, there.
How it would feel to be in that kind of shape.
The closer the date got,
the more real it became.
Until I believed I could not only go sub-9,
but shatter my 6 previous efforts.
We can win our own lottery...
- crystal clear
- detailed
- belief
... if we'll just start dreaming.
===
166lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/91/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
IS IT THE SACRIFICE?
WHY DO SOME OF US stick with the endurance thing year after year after year and others check in for a season or two then check out...
... never to return?
There is something unseen happening.
I think I know what it is.
Sacrifice.
For better or worse...
- could be skipping a new car for a better bike
- an hour later out at night for an early run
- a quick swim instead of a tv binge
... we've sacrificed something.
That sacrifice produces the faith necessary to really go for it,
go for that insane physical goal we've set.
It gives us hope.
And, we love that...
... in everything we do.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/93/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
YOU'RE GONNA SAY THIS IS IT
THINGS AREN'T GOING to go according to plan. Everything is going to go south. Everything. And you're going to say this is it..
... This is how I end.
You can accept that,
or you can get to work.
That's all it is.
You just begin.
Solve one problem.
And then the next.
If you solve enough problems...
... you get to cross the finish line.
Adapted from the closing scene of The Martian.
It's a long movie,
about solving problems,
which is what we do the moment...
... we register for a race or commit snagging that elusive PR.
(highly recommend the movie)
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
8sh hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/95/-7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
IF WE'RE REALLY LUCKY, and we (you n me) are, we'll stumble into something that keeps us endlessly fascinated. No matter how much we do it, or how long we put it on pause...
... it is always, ALWAYS, a ton a fun.
How can we do it forever?
At a high level?
Before I tell ya the answer...
- age
- friends
- failure to progress
... we gotta accept the challenges.
1. If we aren't on point with our health choices, age may ravish us...
... and not the sexy kind.
2. As the playground circles the sun...
... many of our friends will hang it up (see #1.)
3. Failure to progress...
... leads to boredom.
Today, I hooked my sassy grin...
- rode with younger cats
- picked up a new trick
- pushed my limits
... up to the firehose of youth.
1. Lucked into shredding a lot of single track with Steve and Brian...
... the schedules aligned, the conversations vibrant.
2. Coming in hot to a corner, Steve locked up the rear wheel...
... Why did you do that? To vector the turn and change trajectory.
3. Brian, did you launch off that rock?...
... Yeah, came around the turn so fast I had to.
The real secret to the fountain of youth...
... making and keeping young friends.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE HIDDEN ADVANTAGE
WE'RE BUSY. We work. Raise families. Participate in communities. Do our duties...
... what's our hidden advantage?
Just that.
We know how to...
- schedule
- pacify
- lead
... and we have perspective.
Which is what sets us apart,
keeps us in the hunt...
... 'till we cross the finish line.
===
164 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
DARE OR DARE NOT
SOMEWHERE AROUND 8 YEARS OLD, we learn of daring. Someone gets dared. We don't even know what the word means and, yet...
... we do.
Because there is tone.
An unsaid judgment.
I dare you.
Our response...
- bold
- calm
- weak
... means everything.
Later in life, that cat in the mirror still dares us...
... if we are lucky.
What are you daring yourself to do in 2026?
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SHOW A FRIEND AROUND TOWN?
GETTING A LONG-DISTANCE FRIEND TO VISIT is mostly rare, for most of us. We post to Starva, talk up our locale...
... to the point of bragging.
Then, the friend shows up.
Suddenly, we're wondering...
- will they be impressed
- can they keep up
- will they crash
... how this is gonna go down>
There was a time when Surfergirl would take such visiting friends aside and whisper...
... Be careful, he's kinda crazy.
Couldn't blame her as more than a few returned bleeding,
one with a broken bone.
It wasn't on purpose.
- I'd just forget
- be in the zone
- having a blast
... thinking they were doing the same.
The local, me...
... could rip the trails blindfolded.
Everyone else was riding blind.
Anyway...
... Tim did great today.
(I knew he would, and didn't really back it down at all.)
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/91/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GOOD NEWS: THERE'S HOPE!
THIS TIME OF YEAR, the schedule gets crowded. The company parties, family get togethers, community events...
... we want to attend 'em all.
It eats into the training time.
And, that's good.
Just yesterdee, Surfergirl reminded me of our date to see Gentry.
Her favorite trio was in town for a Christmas concert.
Driving down, we wondered if we'd run into any friends,
walking in we saw my brother and sisterinlaw...
... seating, we were astonished.
We were exactly right behind them.
Couldn't have planned it better,
total surprise.
But, that's not the point.
We were carried away in the spirit of the night...
... all the world's nonsense, forgotten.
When we returned home, there was a package on the doorstep.
Incredible...
... a customer had hand made classic ornaments for each of our family members.
As a gift.
The real point is if we'll shut off the news, the pointless socials and get out to events and people we love we find...
... there's hope!
Hoping you'll find plenty of time to share your love for others in the coming weeks.
===
162.2 lbs/12.2%
7.5 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/86/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE BEST FREE ADVICE YOU NEVER PAID FOR
WE ALL GET ACHES AND PAINS. Mostly, we just blow 'em off knowing in a few days things will right themselves. At least that's the idea. But, we are organic...
... our equipment is not.
It won't self heal,
like our miraculous bodies.
No matter how much positive energy we send it...
... those creaks won't go away on their own.
We gotta respect and inspect 'em.
I mean really figure it out.
Lemme splain it.
I've had an annoying creak for a couple of weeks.
Finally, last Friday...
- removed cranks
- checked, cleaned bottom bracket
- found a broken bolt on the chain ring spider
... thought that'd solve everything.
Mostly, kinda.
However, last steep climbs at end of Saturday's ride indicated problem not resolved.
Took into the shop for professional treatment.
Ace mechanic gives me a call.
It's not good.
How bad.
Axle in hub is cracked.
Yikes.
Yeah, it coulda been bad.
How bad?
Well, if it broke while riding it would have destroyed the hub innards, and...
And, what?
... and possibly locked up the wheel.
Now, I dunno how things are where you live, but on that ride I'd just finisihed...
... I hit 35 mph over a rocky, gravel fire road.
Had that wheel locked up...
... I'd be dead, at best.
Consider this the best free advice you Never paid for...
- bike
- bones
- muscles
... Fix thy creaks!
===
162.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HAVE YOU HAD A CLASSY SMOKE, LATELY?
CELEBRATING AN EPIC EFFORT is, can be, a powerful factor in repeatability. You know, whether or not we ever do it again and...
... gain the associated benefits.
Old time movies we so classy.
In black and white.
Couple meets,
goes to dinner and dancing,
the very next scene we see...
... they are covered up, smoking in bed!!!
Here's how we do it most Saturdays.
Meet up at the corner,
hit it hard for 3-4 hours,
the next thing we know...
... we're at the country store.
Cokes, RedBulls, chips, even had Zingers yesterday...
... our version of smoking in bed.
===
Now, here's the diabolical brainwashing science...
- guaranteeing many repeat performances
... celebrating with lots of sugar and caffeine burns those good feelings in.
===
165.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
APPRECIATING A ROUGH START
FOR SOME GETTING STARTED is easy, for other it's hard. Even messy. So, what's better...
... an easy start or a tricky start?
Take today.
We'd climbed 4141', 13.4 miles.
The start, though steep, was pretty smooth.
The final 4.5 miles, were quite a bit rougher.
Lots of rocks.
I really suffered that last 2ish miles.
After a bit of a break,
it was time to plummet back down.
We pushed the pace pretty good those first 4 1/2 miles...
... over terrain I've flatted on many times.
I knew the next 9 miles were smoother, but...
... after the previous beating they seemed like a freeway.
We screamed down.
Surprisingly, I posted my 3rd fastest time ever.
(In case you're wondering if that was my 3rd time down, it was my 44th since 2012, per Starva)
This served as a good reminder...
... if we push through a rough start, we gain the skills to go much faster.
===
Further update on the Conti Dubitals...
- they roll reallyreallyreally fast
- corner dependably at high speed
- seem to be pretty darn puncture resistant
... I'm loving 'em.
Looking forward to playing with pressures,
I think I can run lower than the 16 and 17 I ran today.
(that was in the cold garage, before the heated up on the actual ride which would increase the pressure by a few pounds)
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/107/-18 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ARE WE RIDING SATURDAY?
WE ALL HAVE A RHYTHM TO OUR TRAINING. We have a favorite rotation of workouts, training partners, intensity...
... just like the goto dinner schedule.
When all else fails, I know spaghetti and meat balls is a winner.
No matter what I have planned.
When it comes to Saturdays, the...
- crew
- pace
- route
... I have a few defaults.
If I've had two hard sessions during the week,
I'm leaning towards a longish sweetspot/tempo ride.
If the week only had one high intensity completed,
I'm gonna wring it out on Saturday.
This week's Wednesday Worlds was kinda hard, therefore...
... tomorrow I have a nasty 1ish hour uphill TT planned.
The younsters are gonna make me hurt.
Can't wait!
How do you do it?
===
165.6 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TACKY, TORQUEY TESTING... CONTI DUBNITALS
GETTING NEW EQUIPMENT is always fun. Usually, it is preceded by all kinds of Kool-Aid drinking. You know, the marketing team laying it on thick...
... and our friends laughing at our antiquated ways.
This week, I bit.
Finally jumped to wider tires.
From 2.2 RaceKing in back and 2.2 CrossKing in front to...
... 2.4 Dubnitals, front and rear.
My testing took place on our local single tracks...
... while doing low-cadence, torque climbing in Zone 2.
I'd rip down,
ponder performance on way back up.
Going from 2.2 to 2.4 doesn't appear to be much,
the tires are a bit lighter than the 2.2s
My initial...
- they go from edge to edge much quicker
- seem to roll very fast
- traction is great
... reactions.
I think they're gonna be a great upgrade,
will test on the smoking fast downhills, Saturday.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MUTUALLY ASSURED DESTRUCTION
IF IT TAKES A VILLAGE to raise a child, then, for us, it obviously takes a group to train us up proper. The right gaggle...
... has countless benefits.
Number 1 being speed.
Which is why I did the Wednesday Worlds today, and rolled right into...
... Pain Cave.
When we're on form,
this is an hour segment of riding just below detonation.
Today was much easier...
- the group was slowish
- BBB and I cruised Pain Cave
- catching up and discussing next year's goals
... we were 5 minutes off the PRs.
That will come down because we committed to some rather outlandish goals.
Which means, we'll be pressing the pace on the WW ride,
then duking it out on Pain Cave.
Leading to our mutually assured destruction the rest of the work day...
... and, what we hope will be a massively successful 2026 campaign.
===
If we do it correctly, we'll sprout wings.
Deal below.
Use promo code: VELOBONES
To save 20% on any t-shirt in the collection.
Expires on 12.5.25
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
===
165.4 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/95/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
420 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
OTB OR OTB?
WE HAVE ALL THESE CODE WORDS and acronyms in our culture. The deeper we get into it...
... the cryptic they become.
Here's the mechanic's favorite...
... I was just riding along.
His eye's roll and he scribbles on the notes...
... JRA.
I heard another from a shop owner who was barely hanging on and his "loyal" patrons were constantly asking for discounts and free stuff...
... he called them Freetards.
I've been guilty of both of those and quickly cleaned up my evil ways once I got the hint.
But, this one...
... it's been hard to stay away from.
OTB.
This one is a two-fer,
I can't get it out of my mind lately.
Off the back...
... which is where I seem to be finding myself a little more than my liking.
Over the bars...
... luckily, my recent wipeouts have been on solo rides.
===
165.8 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU CHOPPING WOOD?
WE ALL HAVE A FAVORITE MOVIE, book or story. One that inspires us to be more than we currently are, or return to a place we once dominated. These myths are important because...
... they can lead and guide us to a better future.
Truly powerful.
One of my all time favorites is Rocky IV.
Rocky, seeing his once enemy, the great Apollo Creed, who became his friend and mentor, get crushed by a Russian giant...
... decides he must do something completely different.
He must go...
- runs
- pulls a sled
- carries logs
- throws boulders
- chops down a tree
... to snowy and freezing Siberia.
Maybe it's winter,
maybe it's cold...
... maybe they only way to get nasty fit is chopping wood like Rocky.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
00 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EARNING VS LEARNING
LIFE IS LIKE AN EPIC CARD GAME. We're dealt our genetic hand. As little children, we have no idea...
... we're just running around having fun.
Somewhere around the age of 8 or so we realize...
... we're not all created equal.
I can throw,
my aim is woeful.
I can run,
my friends are faster.
I can swim,
holding my breath is a struggle.
Most of us here, found we love to endure...
... persistence and suffering are out super powers.
We can't earn our way to a sub-4 minute mile, but...
... we can learn how to be faster and more efficient.
That's the journey we are on.
Learning how to be our best.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TRAINING BLOCKHEAD
FOR MANY OF US, this is the time to back things down. Pick up a sporty side hustle. Hit the weights...
... do something different.
Makes sense.
The next season is a long way off.
Just one problem.
Physics.
You can't shoot a cannon from a canoe.
Meaning, when the season does come around, we're going to need a good base from which to start launching our hard efforts.
So, whatawee 'posed ta do?
Personally, I'm gonna...
- have fun
- be more socisl
- challenge my skills
... while logging some solid base mile.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
6.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/107/-20 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU COMFY?
WE HEAR A LOT ABOUT comfort zones. How we want to avoid them because they hold us back, lead us to settling for...
... more than we can be.
Who wants that?
Things I think about after a less frightful drop down one of my all time favorite descents.
I held the KOM at one point,
still top 11.
Back than, I was really, really at ease on that screamer...
... in a state of flow, relaxed.
Comfy.
The good kind.
Yesterday, on the same segment, I was a hot mess.
Smiley on my rear wheel, showing his front wheel, asking...
... Are you riding cautious?
I wanted to say...
... Heck no, and Screw you!
Things were not flowing,
I was gripping.
Hard.
It was very uncomfortable because I haven't been on my MTB much the last year or so.
Practice leads to comfy,
comfy leads to flow,
flow leads to ripping.
Effortlessly.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/94/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THERE'S A LEGENDARY CLIMB
SOARING 5600' ABOVE SEA LEVEL, we have access to a legendary climb. A gravel fire road. It's the kind of challenge we can sink our teeth into, get a baseline for our fitness...
... set legit goals.
The mountain ain't movin'...
- 9 miles
- 3000'
- 6.3%
... but, we are.
The KOM is held by current world tour pro Kevin Vermaerke,
which he probably set in the NICA days.
53:10
The next 9 are local legends...
... the legit kind, not the goofy Starva thing.
There are two ways to view...
- I'm slow, and I suck
- I'm slow, and I can improve
- I'm slow, and I'm dawgawn grateful to be ripping with my pals
... today's traditional Thanksgiving effort.
One more takeaway.
When I set my PR, we lived much closer to the mountain and I'd ride it 3-4 times a month.
It was a goto.
And, it got me thinking...
... if I wanna slay like that again, I gotta do it more.
Maybe every week for the rest of 2025,
and chop 18 minutes off today's time?
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
84/90/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I NEVER LIFTED WEIGHTS UNTIL I GOT INTO THE NFL...
MOST OF US ARE PROBABLY HEADING OUT for the local turkey trot or some sort of holiday ride. It's tradition, followed by the traditional...
... Did you ride or run today?
Which deserves...
... Yes, and the sun also rose this morning.
Earning an...
... I bet your hungry!
Usually followed by a...
... I didn't know you could eat so much pie!
At some point someone will turn on "the game".
As full as we are,
as much as that lycra gonna be stressed tomorrow...
... we realize endurance training doesn't favor or create massive muscles.
Which brings me to one of my all time favorite athletes...
... the Great Hershel Walker.
Dude was devastating in college and NFL.
This quote must have been so humiliating to those left flattened on the field....
- 2000-3000 pushups/day
- 3000-5000 crunches/day
- hundreds of pullups/day
- hundreds of dips/day
- air squats and lunges thousands
- 20-50 yard sprints
... I never lifted weights until I got into the NFL.
Damn.
We may not be - ok, never will be - built like Hershel, but...
... kinda makes ya wonder how much stronger we could be.
Dedicating little time,
from home.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
20 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/82/0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STRATEGY VS THE DREAM
LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR yet? Maybe it's too early, I mean jeez it's not even Thanksgiving yet. But, almost...
... so, it might not be too soon.
There's no rule on that.
I was thinking about this on my ride yesterday.
What comes first...
... strategy or the dream.
Especially with all the InfooIncers on the socials.
You know which ones kill me....
... literally saw this one today...
... Download My 47 Points To Master Advertising Now!
hahahahahah
But, you get the idea.
We can get so hyped up on a new (to us) strategy...
- Single-legged box jumps while hula-hooping for explosive sprinting
- One million grams of carbohydrate from bonking to crushing
- Sleep like a grizzly and maul the group ride
... we start looking for a race to unleash.
I've done it,
still do it.
We can all be suckers,
the cons are as appealing as the conmen.
Anyway, what I concluded after zonetwoing my way around town was...
... The Field of Dream if we build it, they will come...
... is kinda right.
The players, errr strategies, don't show up until the field is built.
In other words, once we identify the...
- A race
- impossible PR
- unconquerable route
... then, and only then, will the strategies we need be apparent.
Let me say it differently.
We can quickly toss aside...
- techniques
- strategies
- hacks
... the worthless dross.
Because the really good stuff that works is easy to see...
... once we have our dream/goal/desire firm and clear in our minds.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/74/7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
NOT AS GOOD?
JOURNALISTS ARE SO MUCH SMARTER than us fans, they have incredible insights we just can't fathom. Why it's a wonder we even...
... bother seeing with our own eyes.
This is gold.
A journo says...
... MVdP is nowhere near as good as Tadej.
On the heels of saying...
... MVdP beat Tadej on the races he wanted to win.
He being MVdP,
and he being Tadej.
Wait,
what?
He's not as good,
but he beats him?
Oh, journo.
Here's the dill, and...
... it's a good lesson for us lowly amachuros.
On certain courses...
... certain riders are unbeatable.
The challenge is to find our course.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/12 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
MY VICE IS TERRIBLE, MY CULT IS WORSE
FEW OF US HAVE BEEN TO AN AA MEETING, but we've seen TV/movie version many times. Hi, I'm Todd and...
... I'm an endurance junkie.
Hi Todd.
When we come clean with the general population, Today I...
- swam 10,000 yards
- rode for 5 hours
- ran 20 miles
... they think we're crazy.
We're not.
The adrenaline rush of ...
- 60 miles an hour in nothing but lycra
- the swimmers blue mind
- the runner's high
... we need that hit.
Regularly.
This risks we take...
- sending it down the mountain
- running along into the cold, dark night
- impossibly holding our breath one more length
... would freakout any life insurance company.
These sensations of pushing well beyond normal, reasonable, safe...
... are often all that's keeping us stable.
In all sincerity, because the allure of the lottery and dulling our senses with substances is so very tempting and tragically treacherous...
... stay dangerous my friends.
The sane kind.
===
165.4 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/70/11 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOW WE SOLVE PROBLEMS
SOME PROBLEMS ARE HARDER than others to solve. It can be frustrating when the answers just aren't coming. This is...
... how I solve my problems.
It's a question of time, right?
The truly unsolvable problems need marinating...
- clearly identify what needs to be solved
- set aside time
- get outside
... during a very lazy ride, run or swim.
The only goal is to solve the problem.
A stop for a pastry and drink is often required...
... I carry a journal and a pen to help me flush out ideas.
The best problems take require more...
- miles
- creativity
- "fuel" stops
... 3 or 4 or a lot more sessions.
Just today I was trying to figure out what to focus on...
- goals
- events
- milestones
... for next year.
Went for a ride,
had a brainstorm,
came home to the Giant calendar.
And they think we ride just for fun and fitness!
===
165 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/81/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BECAUSE IT'S BEAUTIFUL
WE ALL HAVE A WAY to perform. Whether it's vanquishing, showing off, sufferfesting, truly enjoying every moment, our individual efforts...
... leave a lasting impression.
On others,
on ourselves.
Is there a best way?
Right way?
Only way?
Let us not gaze into our own navel but...
- racers
- promoters
- business leaders
- matriarchs and patriarchs
- community and governments
... appreciate for better or worse.
It is what it is.
I was recently struck by a singer...
- unknown by most
- unwilling to submit to label demands
- who died without much fame or fortune at 33
... sold more than 10,000,000 records posthumously.
What?!... how? who?
The great Eve Cassidy sang as if every song was a gift to the listener,
with uncommon love and passion.
Nothing more.
May we all do our thing with such beauty.
===
Pull down her tracks on your music app... good wrenching vibes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4C1_oNzhU7U
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/65/16 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ON THE GAS
A LITTLE KNOWN SECRET to not falling over is going faster. It's counterintuitive. But, it's the first thing we taught the kids when they started riding motos in the desert...
... speed is our friend.
Then why did I suffer so badly last weekend in a desert-bound gravel race?
You didn't have a motor Dingdong!
No, it's more than that...
... and I've thought about it a lot this week.
The 92-mile race
- low gradient climbs and descents
- long, long straight roads
- mostly flat
... provided very little coasting.
We had to stay on the gas.
It's not like the terrain here,
most of my ride profiles look like a lumberjack's saw blade.
Anyway, I'm thinking about that this week because I'm starting to do sweetspot training...
... 90% of FTP, without coasting.
I've got to stay on the gas (the pedals).
It's hard to do when we have so many punchy climbs and lots of turns.
But, I'm a committed fool when it comes to this stuff.
===
By the way, you might be one of the horde who loved this jersey...
... which means you'll probably love the kit.
If you wanna rock this awesomeness click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
There's an insane offer, so don't forget to click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/67/14 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
>
TAKE TWO, AND CALL ME IN THE MORNING
GETTING A COLD is annoying. Can't train like we want to, can't sleep well, hard to be productive. If we get near our lover fingers are raised in an X...
... so, what do we do?
To speed it up.
There are my goto...
- Zicam at first hint
- Pollo Loco tortilla soup
- Insanely hot and long showers
... rider's tales.
Then there's what I did today...
... which could massively backfire, tomorrow.
I woke up,
it was cold.
I had a cold,
and hemmed and hawed.
I consulted my alter ego Dr. Goforit, who said...
- raise your body temperature
- the nose will start to flow
- blow that gunk out
... Put on a kit and get on two wheels.
Torture.
I've had mixed success over the years.
I'll either be on my way to pneumonia...
... or good as new tomorrow.
===
165 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE GODLY CONNECTION IS STRONG IN THIS ONE
BEING OUTSIDE and unplugged is more than just an escape from "the real world". Most people in "modern society" rarely experience what that is like. We do because...
... that's where we thrive.
And, we're moving fast.
Even if we're practicing our craft daily,
and the whether is good,
we could use more.
Not less.
I experienced a snippet of much more on our road trip.
We took time to visit the land my greatgreatgrandfather homesteaded 100 years ago.
No one else was there but us.
Access is via a gravel road,
10 miles from a 2-lane highway.
No cell service.
The only inputs,
each other and nature.
The peace and solitude remarkable.
Over night, the temps dipped low enough to freeze the rain puddles from the prior evening.
We were cozy,
the van has a heater.
Still, when we rose to stretch and visit this hallowed land filled with childhood and parenthood memories...
... we were shocked by the reality of nature.
Not in a negative way,
one that makes you feel alive,
connected to more than a paycheck and bills.
To God.
To acquire the land...
- the extreme temps at 7000'
- the distance by horse or wagon to town
- the loneliness during the months no one came to visit
... E. M. Whiting had to stay on it and not leave, for two years.
How else could he make such a sacrifice if not feeling a closeness to his creator?
I feel it when I'm...
- there
- in the surf
- on our local trails
... and love it.
Need it.
And so...
- walk
- hike
- ride
- run
- surf
- swim
- camp
... we keep inviting and encouraging our friends to join us.
Outside.
===
164.2 lbs/12.6%
9ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MIRROR, MIRROR, ON THE...
DISNEY CREATED AN EMPIRE animating fairytales. Because the appeal is so strong, with little to no cultural barriers we have to ask ourselves not just why, but...
... which is our favorite.
Then, why?
Personally, Cinderella is my top choice.
Not just the story arc,
the snappy dances,
or catchy songs.
There's an orphan in all of us.
Often we don't see who we really are,
out talents lying dormant.
Could be naysayers,
could be something else.
It's nice that Price Charming is a price,
it's charming that he sees Cinderella as she really is.
The point isn't...
- Where's my prince charming?
- Who will save the day for me?
- Why am I not picked?
... to wallow in our sorrows.
The point is for whom are we Prince Charming?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
9ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/67/16 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT’S IN OUR DNA
TOO FEW OF US know our family history. Some barely know cousins. Great-grandparents? Forget about it. It’s just not a thing. And, yet…
… what could be more important?
To know their stories,
is to know ourselves.
Which is why we drove hours out of our way after the bike race.
Here in eastern Arizona, to soak of our roots.
Surfergirl’s great-grandfather helped settle Snowflake,
my great-great grandfather helped settle Saint Johns.
They are neighboring towns,
about 20 miles apart.
And the communities were quite friendly with each other.
You’d think we grew up out here,
and that’s how we met and married.
Not so.
I was born and raised in SoCal,
she was raised in Hawaii.
Maybe somethings are meant to be.
But, that’s not really the point.
This is hard country,
the high desert.
To carve a life and community out of nothing took strength, smarts, and massive cooperation…
… the same qualities it takes to complete very challenging endurance events.
Who is an ancestor that inspires you?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/87/-0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANNA PUT A DENT IN THAT GIRL
IN THE HEAT OF BATTLE we can say and do the craziest things. You know things we might not normally say or do. And, at the time...
... they sound/seem totally normal.
Like today.
I had the awesome opportunity to flat 15 minutes into the 92 mile race...
... suddenly I'm swearing like a sailor.
It wasn't horrific,
still, glad no one was around.
Spent the next 50 miles basically riding by myself.
Doing my best.
Jumping from group to group.
I roll up on one of the female leaders,
bridge across to another badass Barbie.
And, I hear her say the funniest thing...
... I wanna put a dent in that girl.
Speaking of the other racer.
I visualize a halloween scene,
hatchet stuck in the helmet.
Hahaha.
Then the crass, neanderthal in me thinks...
... that sounds like something I'd like to do on date night.
Not the hatchet...
... if you know what I mean.
These crazy thoughts are birthed in our very depleted states, as we...
... do our best to stay upright and moving forward.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY WOULD ANYBODY GO TO DOUGLASS, AZ?
RACING VENUES ARE HARD TO COME BY, especially in big cities. Almost impossible. The result is the bigger the race, the more likely we are to travel...
... someplace we've never been.
Would never go.
Here I am,
two hours south of Tucson,
on the Mexican border, in Douglass, AZ.
This gravel race has the same vibe as my first Leadville,
back in '99.
Small town,
somewhat forgotten.
Which makes it a perfect place to stage a gravel race...
... surrounded my endless gravel roads.
I decided to sponsor the race for three reasons...
- Mike, the promoter, is hella nice and persistent.
- He's a huge fan of our products
- I'm a huge fan of gravel races
... which are the only reasons to sponsor anything.
Passion and admiration for what each other are doing.
Funny story.
I have actually been here before.
Back in the 80's.
I was doing missionary work in Mexico and our visas needed to be renewed. Five us youngsters piled in a van and hit to Agua Prieto, MX. The plan was to walk across to Douglass, wait five minutes and walk back with new visas.
We were greeted with...
... No, no gringo. No se puede asi. (Not so fast whitey, you can't do it like that.)
So we...
- spent the night in Motel 6
- chomped Pizza Hut
- watched ESPN
... forgot all our Spanish.
And crossed back the next day.
I'm guessing Borderlands gravel will be slightly more challenging.
Good night now.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/64/18 (fitness/fatigue/form) ... somebody is tapered!
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HURRY UP
IN OUR EFFORTS TO GET FASTER, we often think of the many benefits. Mainly health, youthfulness. And truth is...
... we are better than most, not as good as some.
Who's better?
By that, do you mean...
... how could anybody be better???
We are aerobic machines, and that is a key to longevity.
Mostly.
Here are...
- Sprints
- Weights
... the missing ingredients.
I know, I know...
- sprinting sucks
- weights can be dangerous
- and, for the weenies in the back, who wants to gain weight?
... what you're thinking.
According to research, when we lift weights not only do our bones get denser but there are intra-muscular gains to be made that we cannot get any other way.
You know what else is weird, most people in our culture never sprint again after their early twenties.
So, here's the main takeaway from all scientific facts do 'em and...
... move faster, age slower.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/71/13 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GIVERS
THERE ARE THOSE WHO VOLUNTEER selflessly and those who volunteer selfishly. Both are admirable. In fact, when I was a race promoter it blew my mind that...
... people just reach out and offer their assistance.
Just giving where there's an obvious need.
I ran into a selfish one tonight.
The sun had set,
my headlight was on.
I was making my way cautiously because the ruts on this particular trail are bad and...
... there's an enormous sinkhole that might kill ya.
As a get there...
... did I say it was pitch dark?...
... a man is standing with a shovel in one hand and a trowel in the other.
Creepy?
Scary?
Nope, I knew what he was up to.
Not burying bodies...
... prepping the trail so when it rains this weekend the ruts will fill in.
I stopped.
Introduced myself.
Thanked him profusely.
No need, I just moved here and can't believe how lucky we are to have these trails right here. Just wanna make 'em perfect for my kids and me to ride on.
To which I could only say...
... Bro, you gotta let me make you a custom RaceDay Bag.
Is there a better gift?
===
165.8 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I THINK I VOIDED THE WARRANTY
LIVING IN THE ACTION SPORTS MECCA of the world, I'm surrounded and influenced by all manner of creative, ingenious athletes. We all feed off each other. My friend Kody...
... started making super aero computer mounts.
3D printed gloriousness.
My new MTB was in need.
I reached out.
Got a mount for Roval bars?
Yes.
Cool, I'll get one.
We haven't tested for lights yet.
He thought I was asking for my road bike.
So yeah...
- the road mount is super aero
- looks freakin' awesome
- supports a light
... survived and thrived on first MTB ride.
Did my evil test void the warranty?
I dunno.
But, this is...
- come up product ideas
- make it
- test it
... what we do around here.
Here's a ink to his site: https://nanoworx.shop
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/85/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DO YOU KNOW YOUR GOLDILOCKS NUMBER?
WE ARE ALL SEARCHING for that magic number of hours to maximize our training. You know, the Goldilocks amount. Not too little. Not too much...
... the perfect amount of work.
I know where it is.
You do to.
Look back over the year.
Find the week that didn't wreck you, the...
- hours
- distance
- intensity
... I can do this every week.
Bonus/verification if you had any...
- Segments
- PWR
- HR
... PRs the following week(s)?
That's your Goldilocks number.
Mine's about...
- saddle time
- bit of strength work
- some sort of other fun
... 13 hours/week.
What's yours?
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU GET 1 WISH
2026 WILL BE HERE soon enough. Many of us are already planning work, vacations, family time...
... and, yes, races.
You get 1 wish.
Here it is...
- lay out your Giant RaceDay Calendar
- scour the interwebs for races
- pick one, and do it
... no limitations.
Imagine it...
- Anywhere on this giant blue marble.
- Any time of the year
- Dream equipment
- Fantastic lodging
- Clear schedule
... and ask yourself.
If not this year...
... when?
'Cause here's the deal, if we only did one race next year...
... we could probably make it happen.
It's just a mental game, play it out, and let me know...
... where, when and why.
Me personally, my top choices...
- Gravel Burn, South Africa
- Oregon Trail
- Rebecca's Private Idaho
... are gravel stage races.
Gravel Burn looks insane.
===
You do have a Giant RaceDay Calendar, right?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
===
164.4 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/91/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE REBEL ALLIANCE IS GROWING
EVERY NOW AND THEN a new format or race or course or piece of equipment comes along with promises to change everything. Except hardly anything changes...
... until something sparks.
How does that work?
Like this.
About 10 years ago, I purchased my first gravel bike.
My friends, like me, were roadies and mountain bikers.
A gravel bike seemed like the worst of both worlds.
I got it,
understood where they were coming from.
Except, I was having so dang much fun...
... I didn't care.
I just kept riding gravel,
inviting my friends,
enduring their
mockery.
It wasn't overnight,
more like overdecade.
The last two Saturdays, most telling.
Eight days ago, an absolute shredder on a mountain bike shows up on a spanking new gravel bike.
30 minutes in, he's grinning and shouting...
... This looks so wrong, but gadang it's fun!
Today, another pal shows up for his first group gravel ride.
He's gifted off road, we spent years riding motos in the desert...
... We're going 30+ miles an hour, I can't believe how much ground we can cover!
Does that mean you should be riding gravel, too?
Maybe.
But, really, it's just a lesson in how things that are worthwhile spread.
Then again...
... What did the gravel bike say to the road bike?
I am your father.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
90/105/-15 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FAMOUS COACHES ARE GETTING FIRED RIGHT AND LEFT
IN PRO SPORTS, or high level amateur, there is always a spot light on the coaches. At some point, blame or credit lands...
... squarely on their shoulders.
Should it?
I do love to follow college football...
- the emotional swings
- the athleticism
- the stadiums
... so much energy and unpredictablity.
Who would have thought so many megamilliondollar...
... coaches would be punted this year.
Mid-season.
The great Seth Godin wrote The Gap.
The idea behind the book is when we find ourselves unable to close the gap to our goal...
... the sooner we decide to quit and move on, the better.
It might be a pro gambling tactic as well...
... but, the only gambling I do is putting my heart, soul and cash into this business.
Anyway, would you have/have you had the guts...
... to change directions, and how quickly would you do it?
===
163.6 lbs/12.4%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CHOOSE WORTHY ADVERSARIES
WHAT IS IT ABOUT LOVING UNDERDOGS? It's so uniquely American. Is it our origin story, the DNA of our culture...
... to cheer for the fighter with no chance?
Honestly.
Who can't feel a bit of their own soul being crushed with every blow the awesome Apollo Creed delivers to a...
... bloodied, bruised, crushed Rocky Balboa?
We've all been in that arena.
Had the bell ring.
Still standing.
Somehow.
We humans thrive against overwhelming adversaries...
- inspiration
- desperation
- exasperation
... oozing with confidence and power.
When our all is required,
we discover who we really are.
As the great Kierkegaard said...
... What doesn't kill me makes me stronger.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/88/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MY TOP 5 SPEED HACKS
FOR MOST OF US, going faster, getting better, has less to do with a fancy new gizmo or the latest training fad. We know that...
... but, what are doing about it?
Like the Mastercard ad says...
... some things are priceless.
Here are five...
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Strength
- Maintenance
- Consistency
... anybody can do.
These are my hacks.
Sleep.
Figure out when we want to wake up. Get in bed 8 hours prior to that. Stay there until it's time. Eventually, our bodies get the hang of it, and boom... we're sleep doping.
Nutrition.
Eat clean. No packaged foods. If we can't identify the ingredients, we don't consume it.
Strength.
Do the basics, at home. We don't have time to drive to the gym. No need to do all the sets at once, break 'em up throughout the day. Hardly any equipment is needed: pull up bar, a few dumbbells (adjustables for the win).
Maintenance.
New equipment is so nice because it is all tight and precise. Flawless maintenance will keep that new equipment performance for years, and we'll always be race ready.
Consistency.
If we always train at the same time magic happens. Those around us learn and appreciate our commitment. We get it done. Always.
A final word.
I was never the best athlete. Not among my friends, and certainly not at school or among the general population.
I was never picked first, couldn't aim or hit anything regularity.
I wasn't the bravest or most daringist.
I did have one thing going for me...
... I freakin' loved being outside and being challenged by nature.
Today, I'm probably better than almost all my contemporaries.
That's not a flex, it's just happens.
They quit.
Which brings us to the top two hacks of all time...
... commitment and passion.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU'VE LOST THAT AWESOME FEELING... GET IT BACK!
THERE'S A CERTAIN SOMETHING we feel during the early days of picking up our passion. It's tangible. We can taste it. We love it...
... that's how we got here.
I'd lost it.
Over the last couple of years, drunk with stupid stats from Training Peaks and Starva...
- more time
- more miles
- more climbing
... I found myself wallowing in fatigue.
Don't get me wrong.
I'd line up, or roll out with the pals, and, though I might be quick to drift back...
... the ability to endure for hours was ridiculous.
Something snapped.
Or, lightning struck.
I dunno.
But, a few weeks ago, I woke up and said...
Screw it!
I'm cutting down the long slogs...
... and bringing back sprint days.
2-3 hours became 90 minutes.
With 10-15 VO2 max efforts,
lasting 10 seconds to 5 minutes.
I'm super fortunate to live close to trails with a lot of straight up and straight down...
... I let the terrain dictate how long the sprint lasts.
Then, focus on my DH skills...
... coasting, staying off the brakes, carving and carrying speed.
The upshot, after 90 minutes and 10+ solid efforts?
I feel amazing,
not pooped.
Sprinting engages all our muscles and focus...
... a total mind, body soul work out.
Soul?
Yeah, trust me.
Do 'em right, and you'll see stars and feel God's presence could be imminent.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU CAN'T GROW A BEARD OVERNIGHT
WE WANNA BE FASTER. Right now. Not this season, not this month, not this week, not today. Right now...
... 300 meters from the finish line.
Houston, we have a problem.
Go ahead.
We forgot to add fuel to the return booster.
Sucks to be you.
Yeah.
We can't grow a beard overnight.
A good one, for some of us...
... can take months.
If we wanna be fast in the final sprint,
if we wanna negative split the course...
... we gotta put in the work before we need the result.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CULTURE WARS
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF TRAINING groups. Both extend invitations...
... the similarities stop there.
One culture assures...
- everyone is ready to start together
- there are plenty of stops
- nobody gets left behind
... fairness and concern.
The other demands...
- leaving on time
- no stopping
- no waiting
... rugged individuals.
The group we...
- join
- create
- help grow
... depends on the result we are looking for.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
RETURN OF THE ROCKET MAN
Dec 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I PACKED MY BAGS LAST NIGHT PRE-FLIGHT, ZERO HOUR 8AM. The idea was to meet up with the fellas and leisurely stroll up the wash 20 miles then do the 9 mile climb up one of my faves. 90% dirt. 2 on gravel bikes, one MTB...
... but is an 80 mile ride with 9000' of vert ever really leisurely?
Two and a half hours in we were at the base of the climb. TBH, I was fine skipping it... and I doubt it would have taken much convincin' to scrap the plan and grab some donuts.
Funny how we can lean on each other and do crazy shtuff. Who the heck rides gravel bikes up a 9 mile rugged dirt road? People like us... you and me. As long as someone else is willing, it's on.
We were already behind schedule and we weren't about to busts any PRs on the way up.
But, it gave us time to chat.
I've ridden with Charlie for at least 15 years... but today, spinning along, we shared all kinds of new things about our lives. Just another reason to love on this sport of ours.
Then the conversation got serious.
Hey man, maybe we should turn around early.
No way.
I think I'm good.
It's right there! See, we'll be at the top in no time.
We made it.
Tired and salty.
I thought we'd be way, way, way, way, way off the pace. It wasn't a fast time, but it was respectable. Surprisingly.
We had a snack. I polished off my water.
To say I love this descent would be an understatement... I get a big smile and shove off.
Rocket Man comes into my head.
I think it's because being in the gravel position...
hands in the drops
flying over water bars
ripping at nearly 30 mph
over marble-sized rocks on hard pack
... it feels awesome, like I'm flying...
... burning the fuse alone...
... a 9 mile descent even at this speed...
...it's gonna be a long, long time to touchdown.
I almost forgot to tell ya... this is the inspiration for the KOM jacket. I developed specifically for this climb. Many times we are pressing hard for a good time or to test fitness.
It's not the kind of place to carry heavy clothes.
But, coming down can be cold as hell.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black
Fold it into it's own pocket and slide into your jersey pocket.
We use a very lightweight membrane fabric.
Wind stopping and water resistance are remarkable.
Plus, the fabric is stretchy so we cut the jacket to be aero... modern rocket men don't need parachutes.
Check it out: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black
Side note... I find myself using a vest and arm warmers less and less. The jacket folds up smaller, and is just as warm.
---
163
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4493328035
I HATE TO BRAKE IT TO YA
Dec 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE ONLY I PERSON I EVER MET THAT SWEARS HE KNOWS HOW TO BRAKE IS SUPERDAVE. If you don't know SuperDave he used to be a hitter at FELT until he got called up to the big leagues at Specialized... not that that is any indicator of his braking ability. But, if you ever see his sizable mucsulus quadriceps or his blistering breakaway you might say...
... Do tell, how to brake.
For me, it came up when he was setting up 3T America a couple of years ago. We were both bragging about how awesome we are while ignoring each other when he caught my ear.
You can borrow this bike I've been riding, but the front brake pads are really worn.
Won't be a problem.
I didn't think it would, you look like a back brake first kinda guy.
Aside from that hurting, and his skill estimating ability being slightly off, he had a helluva point.
Most riders, probs you newguygalpersonhuman, are riding around with smoked rear brake pads and pristine fronts.
Why?
Because most riders were raised by parents screaming...
Don't touch the front brake you'll kill yourself!
... consequently, most riders have that nagging bit of self-doubt banging around their helmets. Yes, it sucks. But, it's real.
--> unrequested parenting advice: our minds can't see negatives. Tell your kids and loved ones what you want them to do, they're going to visualize and act on whatever you say. Tell a kid Don't run into the street and what do they do? I could/should write a book on that. <--
... back to making good braking habits.
Try this at home, at your own peril... this is only one Old Diesel's opinion:
- Apply your front brake liberally, it is 70% more powerful than the rear - or something like that. You can really lay on it hard when traveling in a straight line.
- In turns, I'm pretty even on the brakes... unless I want to slide the rear for quicker directional change, then that rear is locked up.
- Make it a goal to wear the front and rear pads out equally.
That could be free advice worth more than you paid...
... speaking of paying.
You're not still using one of these are you?
When you could be using one of these...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
In the off chance you're looking for an extremely svelte wallet to hold a few cards and a couple of Benjamins... a wallet that will never, ever in a million years fall out of your jersey pocket...
... you can have this favorite o' mine - well a brand new one - for a mere 20 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
---
163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep too excited to get back to Santa's workshop
https://www.strava.com/activities/4487786229
RIDE IT FORWARD
Dec 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY, LOANED YOU A BIKE. Different from the bike you might have received as a child, this was an adult bike. You rode it, just like I did, and fell in love again...
... because someone paid it forward.
I've been paying/riding it on down the roads and trails ever since my roommate Talley loaned him his "10 speed". He brought one back to school one weekend... within a week I had a ride of my own. Best senior year ever.
Sound familiar?
Do you remember who gave you the nudge?
Still riding together?
My latest convert/victim is my grandson's grandfather.
Hey Todd, what's it like riding a gravel bike?
I've got one you can borrow. I'll bring it over and we can ride around.
Can't get much more innocent than that, can ya? A simple Check it out is so effective.
Which one should I get?
The answer is always the same...
The best you one you can swing and still sleep at night... even though you won't sleep the first few nights because you'll be so excited to ride the next day.
He chose this one: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
But, the best part is when he picked it up today he dropped his brother's old bike to be serviced and made ridable.
We might have a real zealot in our midst... and I'm totally down for that.
How many have you encouraged to check it out this year? I'm guessing a lot.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
... I might even have a promo code for ya. Hit me up.
---
163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4483765938
THE YEAR IN PRE-VIEW
Dec 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
LOOKING BACKWARDS WHILE RIDING A BIKE IS ALWAYS TRICKY. A little swerve, a missed sharp object... so many chances for things to go wrong. Looking forward is so much more fun, safe and profitable...
... which is what I like to do this time of year, start planning out next year.
Figure the big family events.
Scan the cycling calendars
- USACycling for Nationals
- Epic Rides
- Leadville
- SoCal Cycling
- NCNCA
- AZCyclng
- Cycling Utah
- SoCal Endurance
- TeamBigBear
- LoToJa
- Cascade Cycling Classic
- ... basically everything within a day's drive.
Then the major work projects.
That's the big stuff and it goes on the calendar in that order: Family, Races/Adventures, Work.
There's monthly and weekly and daily planning. But, getting the big stuff right matters more. For me.
Speaking of getting stuff right, wouldn't winning the ENVE™ Wheels be awesome?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
Buy any t-shirt between now and 12/31 and you'll be automatically entered in the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway... and the t-shirt purchase will get you double the entries you'd normally get.
Best of luck!
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
---
164
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4481657645
DECEMBER HERO OR ZERO?
Dec 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S HALFWAY THROUGH DECEMBER, just in time to send out this public service announcement. December heroes always morph into race season zeroes. Lest you think I'm calling you out...
... I'm not.
Well, I might be if you are:
- Exhausted after your ride
- Wincing as you go up or down stairs
- Loathing your next bike sesh
- Setting KOMs on routes already ridden by a thousand others
- etc...
... it's a long list, and glancing over it I might be a bit guilty myself.
Which is why I will once again renew my dues with Riders For A Sensible Pace. This completely fake group, should exist. There should be an intervention for dummies like me.
Let me give you an example of such idiocy...
... a public service announcement went out to our cozy little social ride last night that said something like...
Let's merge the A and B rides so we can all ride slow together until March.
I didn't think it would go well, but hoped it would.
As one of the tribe elders, I arrived early and proceeded to pontificate on the virtues of riding together.
There was a long, stoic silence...
... followed by hooting and hollering, Yeah... right. We don't trust you guys!
Off they went.
Leaving me, on my gravel bike, to fend for myself amongst the hungry A lions.
We're gonna go easy right fellas?... set a good example so the B's believe our earnestness and solidarity in commitment to winter base miles?
An Of Course Old Diesel carol, warmed my Christmas heart. I would survive and have many more social paced rides this winter. Today would be a new beginning, and new era for the Tuesday Morning World Champions.
Alas, there are no gifts in cycling... especially within 12 days of Christmas.
None at all.
It was blistering from the get go, and I was rudely ejected on the second to last climb... aka The Wall.
On a related note, Bob P stopped by today and introduced himself.
I'm Bob, we met on Creek To Peak a few years ago. I've been reading your blog ever since.
That's awesome. Thanks man.
Sure... I'm here to get my wife a Christmas present.
Lucky lady.
Not for her, for her to give to me.
Which reminded me I could give myself a gift, too... Ya know Diesel, you could just roll over at 5am next week and do your own easy ride a little later...
... but we all know I need my weekly lashings, offseason or not.
Which reminds to remind you that socks and gloves make great stocking stuffers.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones for the gloves and the socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
While supplies last.
---
163.6
Stretch and HyperVold
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4475883860
IN A METRIC HEATBEAT
Dec 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE P.A. ASSIGNED FOR MY PHYSICAL WAS A LITTLE KOOKY. It wasn't that he was getting on in years or that his thick Boston accent was challenging to decipher. It was the question he posed about my heart...
Wow... whadaya got there... one a them metric hearts, eh?
What?
Yeah, sounds like ya got one a them metric hearts.
What are you talking about?
You know, metric. Most people come in here beating 60, 70, 80 times a minute. You. In the forties. Metric.
How is that metric?
Metric, you know 100 miles equals 60 of them metric thingies. Kill-oh-meters. Metric!
Yeah, sure, I have a metric heart.
Poor old feller, I didn't have the metric heart to set him straight on the kilometers vs miles.
But, I do have the heart to remind you to ride... even if you have to ride in the dark like I did tonight.
Just be lit up. Like a Christmas tree.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
I've been running these lights this fall. Really like 'em. 1000 lumens on the front, and the rear has a pattern to help cars judge distance.
Use promo code: METRICHEART
It'll save ya big buck$ on any of our lights.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
---
164.6
PushUps/PullUps/Shoulders
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4473498383
ELON MUSK LAUNCHES BICYCLE COMPANY
Dec 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TECH GENIUS AND GAZILLIONAIRE ELON MUSK ANNOUNCES HUMAN POWERED BICYCLE PROJECT. Musk, who's Tesla Inc. has embarrassed the automobile industry by becoming more valuable than all other makers combined, has decided to turn his all seeing eyes to the future of humanity.
Stating he is bored by his Boring Company which is boring tunnels to create the Hyperloops meant to revolutionize earthbound travel, he claims he has a fresh approach to human powered travel.
Asked if this new vision has anything to do with his SpaceX company's colonization of Mars, the legendary visionary only gave a hint of what will surely decimate another industry by bringing humanity forward in a single pedal stroke.
In an exclusive interview, our real life Tony Stark came clean.
We are creating a bicycle that will be powered solely by humans. No motor.
Really?
Yes, the idea is to have a tool that engages all the senses, delivers immense pleasure, can be enjoyed alone or with a group. There will only be an outside version, to enjoy nature's beauty. The results in testing are truly astounding.
How so?
You see by removing the motors and making the activity only accessible out of doors we have data showing massive increases in mental, social and physical health.
This sounds exciting.
Oh, it's changed my life. It will change yours, and everybody you know.
Do you have a name for this new business.
Absolutely. LegGevity
There you have it folks. Stay tuned. A better world awaits us all, a human powered outdoor experience...
... coming to a planet near you.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/leggevity
If you know Elon, let him know we've got a dealio for him.
Use promo code: PRsRULE
When you purchase a bottle of PR Lotion and a PRs rule tshirt, the tshirt will be free.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/leggevity
---
165.6
HyperVolt and Stretch
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4468950643
LET'S GRAVEL ON...
Dec 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I WROTE THIS PITHY POST ONCE ABOUT DRESSING FOR THE RIDE, NOT THE ROLLOUT. The idea is we should dress appropriately for once things are heating up on the ride. Days like today, when I really take it to heart and roll out in the low 40s with high humidity...
... everybody's in parkas, I'm in jersey and bibs.
Commando in pajamas ain't exactly warm.
I was cold. But, I didn't care.
All I could think of was riding North and finding this singletrack that snakes up and through the neighborhoods to the top of Newport Coast. I'd ridden it once a couple of years back. Even though it would take an hour to get there, the idea of finding that trail and climbing it warmed my heart.
Eventually it did warm up and I was perfectly dressed for scouting out a new, awesome gravel route. I even managed to include my favorite general store... possibly the last one still operating in the county.
There's a lot of energy behind the gravel bike movement. I'm not sure where it's headed... which is exactly what makes gravel riding so run. I'm never sure where I'm going to go, but it always turns out to be a lot of fun.
Because it wasn't fffffffffreezing, I was just in superlight gloves and race socks. For that reason, I present thee with a special offer.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones for the gloves and the socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
While supplies last
---
162.6
HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4464328944
YOU ARE WHAT YOU RIDE
Dec 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAVE A OPTIONS TOMORROW... The Thug Ride, The Dirty Ol' Bastard. If it's true you are what you ride... well, I might skip those... and it is true, but it's also true attacks and climbs may break my mind but names will never hurt me...
... which ride to do this fine winter's day?
One of the more amusing conversations I have with riders who aren't quite sure of the thugness or dirty'olness on rides goes like this...
Yeah, I want to do that ride as soon as I'm in shape in the Spring.
OK, but... this is the slowest time of year for that ride, it only gets faster in the Spring.
Yeah, I'll be ready.
... no chance in helk, I think to myself. No chance at all.
Winter is the time to latch onto the fast guys while they're going slow. It's the only chance most of us have. Come Spring, those DirtyOl's will be Thugging every pedal stroke of every ride.
Now is the time to latch and do what they do... and if you're lucky ride what they ride.
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
163.4
Stretch/Plank/HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
No ride... Santa be bizzy.
CYCLING GENIUS LAYS OUT SIMPLE SUCCESS FORMULA
Dec 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE WAS NO WAY I WAS RISKIN' NOT GETTING MY DAILY DOSE OF MEDICINAL PEDALING by waiting until late afternoon. Most of the time the opportunity vanishes when I take the wait and see approach, then I'm suffering some serious withdrawals.
Some days are like that.
A lof 'em, lately.
My strategy comes from my favorite cycling genius...
"If A is a success in life, then A equals X plus Y plus Z. Work is X; Y is play; and Z is keeping your mouth shut."
... Albert Einstein.
It worked for AL, seems to be working for me... is it working for you?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
Use promo code: GENIUS
To save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
---
163.6
Stretch/Plank/HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4455017395
WHAT HEALS THE FASTEST?
Dec 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S A DRAG TO GO DOWN, CRASH. We pop up like nothing happened, whenever possible. Ride like all is cool. Then we get home, dried blood, bruised, banged up...
... and assess the damage.
With luck, only flesh wounds that will heal quickly.
With more luck, the bike is okay.
But, there's another category that can be damaged and dernright embarassing. I was reminded of it yesterday as my pal's ripped up shoulder flapped in the wind.
I'm sure it's a favorite kit. He wears it often.
Probably because there are no more to be purchased.
If only he'd had us make it... then he could exercise our Crash Replacement Policy.
Wouldn't that be nice?... fresh new kit, same favorite design.
How's it work?... send us a pic, we'll get it made at 50% savings.
I know, we really should make it harder. At a minimum more shameful... like require a pic of the incident to be posted all over the socials.
But why, when we could just get it made and delivered about as fast as the scabs are healed?
Personally, if I purchased a jersey this beautiful and shredded it racing down a mountain I'd love to get it replaced.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1?variant=36819856228513
It's hard to appreciate how awesome this blue is on a screen vs seeing it in person.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1?variant=36819856228513
PEDALposse members save 25% on this.
---
164.2
PushUps and PullUps
7.5 hrs sleep
No ride today - Santa and Elves very busy.
MTB PIONEER BUYS HIS FIRST COMPLETE BIKE
Dec 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
FEW PEOPLE HAVE ASSEMBLED THEIR OWN BICYCLE, far fewer have ever assembled their own bicycle company. I'm lucky enough to know one of these individuals...
... here's what I've learned.
First off, we met around '92. It was a chilly morning, on a local single track that would soon become home to Olympic Champions and Pro Tour racers... along with masses of enthusiasts. Whiting Ranch.
Our bikes were heavy, and our suspension mostly awful.
Marv had scoped out a tiny company that was making lightweight full suspension bicycles that were works of art. Soon, he and Roger and I all had these anodized aluminum wonders.
Next thing I know, Marv sells his tech biz and buys a chunk of Intense Cycles.
The company was unique.
And, tiny.
I think I had frame number 8 or 9... and there may have been a 100 produced, ever, at that time.
Seemingly overnight the company is a well-known brand.
That's not what I learned. Anybody could see that from afar.
Over the years, I was able to see how he and his partners worked very hard every day patiently, diligently executing a great idea.
A great idea is worthless without great execution. But, if you do it right you can build something beautiful and one day sell it. Which he did.
Fast forward a little more and he's retired. Loving his BMC road bike and wanting a gravel bike.
He reads my blog on Strava.
Sees my BMC gravel bike.
Gives me a call.
New bike arrives in a box.
I shouldn't have been surprised, but I was.
We'll get it built tomorrow.
No need. I'll pick it up.
Of course he's going to put it together himself... some riders like to know exactly how all the pieces fit together...
... in everything they do.
I dig that.
Just like I dig riding gravel... haven't raced gravel yet, but it's kinda lookin' like that might be one of the only options next year.
So, if you thinking that could be on your calendar... give us a shout. Don't worry, we'll put it together for ya.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles
Funny thing... on his way out he asks...
Is this going to get me entries into the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway?
Yep, sure is.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles
---
164.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4446682448
THIS BIKE SHALL BE KNOWN ON THE RECORDS OF STRAVA
Dec 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M NOT EVEN SURE WHEN I STARTED NAMING MY BICYCLES. I've always done it. This morning, after one ride on a beautiful new BMC gravel slayer, I had the perfect name...
... names make a difference, you know.
Choose carefully.
Pick the right name and your ride can deliver mythical performance, exception inspiration and ward off all sorts of evil.
Often, I'll let the color have a good say in the matter.
This bike is purple. Purple frame. Purple ENVE™ stickers.
Not just any purple, but a truly righteous shade of glossy purpleness.
Of course, the proper first ride for any bike will include the kind of riding the bike is designed for. In this case it was...
Asphalt
A staircase.
A gravel road.
And some single track.
In that order, with lots of speed and magical handling.
Yep, this bike shall be known on the records of Strava as... Showtime... after the great Magic Johnson led Lakers in their purple and gold.
Did I mention it has ENVE™ Wheels? Did I mention how fast they roll? How snappy they accelerate? How tacky the tires feel with that wide rim?
Have I mentioned you could win a set of ENVE™s?
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
164.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4442252464
SPECIALIZED ANNOUNCES $4000 UNICYCLE
Dec 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
UNDER PRESSURE TO DELIVER MORE S-WORKS FRAMES TO IT'S CUSTOMERS, the Big S has released a $4000 unicycle. Known as the Tar, the first available model is the S-Works level option.
Due to the unique nature of 1-wheel bikes vs 2-wheelers, they will essentially be doubling their production capacity.
Marketers at the company claim it's a triple win.
- Quicker deliver to customers
- Significant savings
- Better prep for the circus known as the Pro Tour.
That said this is not stripped down S-Works either:
- $1500 S-Works Tar frame
- $1100 Roval Alpinist Wheel
- $450 Power MIrror Saddle
- $400 S-Works Venge Seatpost
- $400 S-Works MTB Cranks
- $180 Boomslang Platform Pedals
- $50 Pathfinder Pro Tire
The company also claims myriad benefits to one-wheel training:
- Better balance
- Increased core strength
- Smoother pedal stroke
The icing on the cake, however, is safety.
Due to the upright unicycle position and it's rarely seen in the wild nature, drivers normally riveted to their phones and coffee are keenly aware of these beautiful machines and talented riders.
2020... what a year for cycling!
For those of you who continue riding two-wheelers, there's still time to enter the ENVE™ Wheel Give Away
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
164.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4440002457
1ST LOSER... AGAIN!
Dec 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IF YOU EVER STOP BY TO SAY HI - AND I HOPE YOU DO - YOU WILL SEE A STRING OF 2ND PLACE TROPHIES. I have earned an unusual amount, and I keep them front and center as a reminder...
... there is always somebody better, I can always work harder.
Today's 2nd place, unlike the others, was a near disaster.
So many lessons.
First off... I set my sites on the wrong goal. Again. This time it was to be close to my San Diego friends who always whack me when I race down there. When I checked the start list and saw Stenk, TimZ, JohnnyO, JeffW, LarryP were also racing my chances of eating dust increased immensely.
That said... we'd just come off getting whacked at the Cactus Cup where the course is a series of neverending ups and downs. Matt set us up a local route that was nothing but that. Constant power climbs and quick drops. In other words, we trained about as best as one could for today's course.
Ideally, really.
Concurrently... I've been leaving late for to meet the posse recently requiring me to go all out the moment I leave the house. Which is exactly what Coach Brian has been asking me to work on.
No more Old Diesel TB... time to start hard and fast.
Let me just interject here, that Coach Brian did his first mountain bike race today and the first words out of his mouth to his Padawans was...
I had no idea how violent the start would be, we need you guys a lot fresher for these racers.
The lesson here is this... a good coaching relationship is two-way. He knew I needed to work on my starts, I knew to be fresh. Per Strava my form was a whopping +24 today.
Why was today a near 2nd Place disaster?
Well, yours Diesely wasn't paying attention.
I've often said the closer we get to the finish line the dumber we get. Today was no exception.
I knew the laps were 6 miles long. The race is called the Dirty30. 5 laps right? Duh...
... so there I am, in second place on the 4th lap...
TimZ had gapped me on the first lap by wisely choosing the easy to ride climb while I chose the hideous wall option. Took me a lap to recover from that. He was gone.
... anyway, I'm in the zone, figuring I've got another lap and half to go. It's heating up and my Camelbak is nearly empty I'm picking the cleanest lines I can, conserving as much as I can.
I slide around a corner and TimZ has a flat.
Ah, crud... sorry Tim!
Go, you got this!
I got this... well, probably if I race wisely I can keep this pace up for another 45 minutes.
How fun would that be?!
I catch and pass some of my pals. Yep, feeling great. Riding within myself. Thinking, Holy cow! This could work! Letting myself get a little giddy.
The last half mile of said lap 4 this jackball keeps battling me. I'm thinking Bro, we have another lap. I've already put minutes on you, since you were in the first wave.
We roll through to do lap 5 and the great Victor Sheldon, the promoter on the mic, says Todd Brown, winner of the 55+ division!. Hellyeah I say to myself.
Matt rolls up... Nice job on the V, but I still beat you by 4 min. Folks, that is friendship. The best kind.
The posse is congradulatory. Slapping my back and all.
Sten rolls up, I'm a believer! You took off so fast I couldn't ever see you. Finished less than a minute behind you. Second place is great!
Second place, no way. Tim flatted. No one else in front.
Well... scoring says some guy named David Juarez beat you.
Tinker! That stinker!
For the record - have I said that yet? - David Tinker Juarez is a former Olympian who usually races pro... at 58 years old. Beating a lot of the Pro field is normal for him, still.
When he lined up and took off with them we all figured he's doing his thing... thankfully. We took off 2 minutes later.
Could I have beat him...
.... hahahahahhahaha, no chance in 'ell. He put 13 minutes on me.
Back to my point, I'm never dissatisfied with 2nd place as long as I know there was nothing left in the tank and I raced to the best of my ability.
However, I would have been extremely ticked if the pack of gray wolves behind me had caught and passed me at the end of lap 4 while I was secretly setting them up for an all out onslaught on lap 5.
Lastly, so far I'm the only actual grandpappy on that podium... and I'm most happy about that.
2 More Critical Race Notes:
- JimmyC came up to me, probably when Victor was explaining how many laps we were going race and said I was trying to decide Camelbak or bottles last night and you came to me in a vision... Camelbak, totally dorky but infinitely better on a course as relentless and technical as this.
- 3 things helped me go faster than last Dirty30: first, I'm about 5 lbs lighter than last year; second, via a lot of saddle time I'm one with my new BMC 4 Stroke and is legit much faster than any XC bike I've ridden before; third, the HyperVolt is a recovery game changer.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dirty30
Don't you deserve this for Christmas? Your competitors certainly don't :D
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dirty30
Purchase all 3
Use Promo Code: DIRTY30
PR Lotion and Chamois Butt'r will be FREE
Plus, get 825 entries into the ENVE™ Wheel GiveAway
---
THE GREAT RONNIE COLEMAN
Dec 04, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE STORY OF THE GREAT RONNIE COLEMAN IS ON NETFLIX. I'm struck by the persistence, humility, and greatness of this man and athlete. You might be too...
... it reminded of what makes binge watching great (it's a 90 min documentary).
It's the arc of our own story that takes us from hacks and weekenders to consistently improving beasts.
That's why we binge watch, to find out what's going to happen to our heroes and villains.
Perched on my saddle, it appears to me that the dabblers - hacks is too harsh - are the riders who never really get better. The ones who get excited, buy a bike, ride it a few times and turn into place to dry out wet clothes.
That's not us.
We register for events and we race.
The more official and epic the race, the more dramatic and awesome our story. Wherever your racing is on the scale...
Beating Your PR <-- Racing to the City Limits sign --> Winning Nationals
It's our own heroes journey and battling of real and made up villains that keeps us going, and coming back for more. The endless fasciation with improving our performance.
Non-racers mostly miss out on all that drama. Which I contest is why they lose interest. There is no story arc for them.
For example, we'll sign up for an event that is 6 months out.
We start paying more attention to what we are eating, how far we are riding, how fast we are going, getting a bike fit... all things we can do to increase efficiencies. We measure them. See what works, what doesn't. Test ourselves against friends or less important races, etc.
That is our story arc.
Watch Ronnie's story and you'll get the sweet flavor of this post.
Kinda like the sweet flavor of Honey Stinger Waffles.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger
I just love these... perfect for long rides when you want something solid that goes down deliciuosly.
These also make great stocking stuffers, plus get you entered into the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger
---
161.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4429179393
(finally got that KOM - now that's drama)
LIKE A FINE TUNED MACHINE
Dec 03, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S BUSY HERE AT THE SHOP. It makes me happy. With a local race on Saturday and us being a racy bunch the bikes are flowing in and out. These are the people that take no chances. They've busted their buns to get fit and they've learned from sweaty experience to make sure their machines...
... are as finely tuned as they are.
But, ya know what's weird?
The racy peeps who are finely tuned on poorly tuned machines.
I see them every race. I've been one.
RaceDay morning they'll be all kitted up, ready to rip. Drivetrain will be filthy, shifting poorly. Tires lacking tread.
Or worse.
They will have put on new parts the day before and woken up to flat tires because the sealant didn't seal. Chain skipping because new chains skipping on old, worn cassettes.
It's a long list.
We all recognize it.
With some luck things will go well and they'll finish with big smiles.
But, who wants to risk that? Who wants to waste the emotional energy involved with either the mishaps or just having that Hope this don't break nagging feeling?
One thing that's always fun is to sport a new kit on RaceDay.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/grayghost
Like a gray over gray... haunting your prey...
Did I see a ghost? Is that the rider I'm chasing? Do I even have a chance?
The light is picking up the color a little oddly in the these pics. I'll post some more in the daylight soon.
In the meantime, here's the dealio...
Buy the kit, get the gloves and socks free.
Promo code is GRAYGHOST
It will actually apply a discount across all 4 items equalling $40 - price of gloves and socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/grayghost
---
161.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4425596286
Found this inside my tire while prepping... nice little staple clean through and Stan's all dried out.
Thought my brake was rubbing... nope. Checked the rotor... nope. Wheel was spinning great but strange sound... turned out to be dust under dust cap... the kinda sound that can drive ya crazy when you're racing.
THAT NEW BIKE SMELL
Dec 02, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DON'T TELL MY HUSBAND I BOUGHT THIS , OKAY? The smile on her face was unerasable. For this first time in her adult life this friend o' mine purchased a bicycle for herself. It's a day we all remember...
... and we remember 'splaining to our family and friends.
I bought a new bike.
Really?
Yeah, it's awesome.
What kind?
A gravel bike (using today's example)
What's that?
Oh, it's like a road bike but it can go anywhere. On pavement, but I will mainly ride it on the dirt roads and trails... more adventure, probably safer.
... so far so good, everything going according to plan ...
Let's see it... Wow!... how much was it?
... here is where our super stoked out of her mind new bike owner says ...
I got a really good deal.
... now, I'm not saying that's the wrong answer. Lord knows I've used it plenty of times myself ...
Oh, really... how good?
Oh that new bike smell!!!
Our friend/family/lover can smell that bike, can see bird feather hanging out of our cat mouth.
There's no going back. Because...
Ain't nowayinhell I'm going another day of my life without the joy of carbon between my legs and wind in my face.
It might be the smell of burning cash to outsiders...
... but, it's the smell of countless heckfire good times ahead to us.
Now, whether you're heading out on a new bike or your trusty stead this time of year the weather can be challenging.
That's I developed the KOM jacket.
You've never seen, touched, worn or smelled anything like this.
It's made of a very fine, stretchy membrane fabric that we import from a special factory nestled near the Dolomites of Italy. They're the only people in the world that produce this material which is wind and water resistant... and so light and feather you can roll it up and tuck it in your back jersey pocket.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
We keep selling them as fast as we can make them, but there are a few in stock as of tonight.
It's called the KOM jacket because it's perfect for this local 12 mile MTB climb I'm trying to PR all the time.
Most mornings when we're getting after it we are plenty warm on the way up. But, in the winter it can be very cold up there and it can get covered in clouds pretty quickly.
This jacket is perfect for whipping out at the top before bombing back down... if it's really cold, arm warmers underneath.
You can save $35 on this incredible layer when you join the PEDALposse -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-monthly-subscription
Or you can save a few bucks with this promo code: KOM
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
---
162.6
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4421202074
STEVE JOBS... WE'RE A LOT LIKE HIM
Dec 01, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF MY BUSINESS HEROES IS THE GREAT STEVE JOBS. And, while I'm not Steve Jobs, and you might not be either, we have a secret super power in common...
... Oh, do tell Diesel!
Steve was famous for taking long walks when he wanted to get his point across or really get to know somebody. Very long walks. He would sucker them in saying Let's walk around the block... and then be gone for hours.
I am the same way... I'm guessin' you are too.
But, on bikes.
Most of my most meaningful conversations with my close friends and mentors have taken place on bike rides. Racing for sure has been covered in great detail... and so has solving life's many riddles.
I remember early on cornering, creeping on?, every fast rider I could find. Listening to everything they said to me or whoever they were talking to. And, I've siddled up to many a new rider to share tips, stories and ideas. Riding side by side is such a great way to impart and consume knowledge.
Fact is... the best conversations in my life have happened outdoors, at an easy pace: long rides, hikes, walks, ski lifts, waiting for waves, sailing etc...
... as well as some of my best product ideas.
What's your favorite Diesel Creation?
- RaceDay Bag™
- Superlight Race Gloves
- Race Socks with EZ Breathe Yarns and FastMax Compression
- Pro Jersey and Pro Bibs with Italian fabrics and a top secret chamois
- The KOM Jacket
- The Changing Poncho
- ...
Well, if it's the Changing Poncho...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
When you purchase the changing poncho, not only are you getting a great tool for changing in public but we are getting you 3 X the entries into the ENVE Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
163.8
PushUps and PullUps HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4416860544
IS EVERY DAY REALLY RACEDAY™?
Nov 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
EVERY DAY IS RACEDAY
To my friends who find joy on bicycles and want to dramatically improve their skills and ability.
INTRODUCTION
I’m Todd, aka The Old Diesel.
I’ll be your guide, and maybe one day we can race together. Until then, I hope this little book will help you be confident in your abilities to line up and win.
Because credibility creates believability, you should know I have won 2 National Championships in my age group. These were racing an event called SuperD, what is now referred to as Enduro. I have also one many other races on road and mountain bikes.
That said, some of my greatest victories had nothing to do with standing atop the podium.
Setting my PR at Leadville in 2019 and snagging 2nd place at LoToJa in 2017 are just as exhilarating to look back on. We’ll cover these and other stories to put winning and racing into what I believe is a proper perspective.
If you’re looking for a tactic to win a sprint, you might find a few. However, the purpose of this book is to present a strategy for approaching bicycle racing that is fun and rewarding, leading to a lifetime of growth and improvement.
By the time you finish reading you’ll have a good idea of what it takes to be a racer, and clear understanding of why you need to start racing now.
Let’s get started.
CHAPTER 1 - WHAT IS WINNING?
Get this right, and you’ll win every time you pin on a number.
---
I've written a lot more of the book... but, that's all you get to see for now. I like to keep the good stuff undercover.
Maybe that's why the Changing Poncho is getting a plug tonight.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
When you purchase the changing poncho, not only are you getting a great tool for changing in public but we are getting you 3 X the entries into the ENVE Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
164
PushUps and PullUps HyperVolt
7.7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248/posts
DIVERSITY = SPEED
Nov 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THIS MIGHT SOUND OBVIOUS, and might be something for you to consider... it's something I'm intentional about. My riding and exercise is highly varied... and I was reflecting on that while looking for a book I'd previously read, here's a sample books I've read this year...
... Major Taylor's biography - America's richest and most successful athlete and cyclist circa 1900, Rise of the Dungeon Master - Biography of Gary Gygax and the creation of Dungeons and Dragons, Blue Moon - a Jack Reacher novel, Subscribed - Tien Tzuo, Creativity - John Cleese...
... and that's just the first 5 books of probably 30 I've read this year...
... i vary my reading to be a better writer,
I vary my riding to be a better racer.
Yeah, I know yesterday's post Specificity = Speed might seem like a contradiction, but bear with me.
By doing a lot of different riding and racing I gather skills that can be applied elsewhere.
For example, mountain bikers very rarely will be in a road paceline and get into trouble.
Why?
Because mountain bikers also form pacelines offroad and inherently know to never trust the rider in front to pick the best line, let alone point things out.
Road riders, particularly the racers, develop tremendous 1, 3, and 5 minute power.
Why?
Because they know if they can just hang on to those violent accelerations things will calm down and be manageable again... while those without the power have been jettisoned.
Yes, I do a lot of different types of riding: road, gravel and mountain. And, I also do a fair amount of walking and surfing and paddling. Walking is just good. The surfing and paddling are great for upper body strength and core... and balance. Cycling, especially road, is all about straight forward... offroad uses some side to side balance, but nothing like standing on a surfboard on the ocean.
All that said... if you can swing another bike, get it. It doesn't need to be "pro", it just needs to function properly. If you can swing another sport, do it.
And, it's not just the additional skills you'll bring back to cycling but also the freshness you'll bring to the new riding and from the new riding to the one you really want to excel at.
Of course, if you're doing a lot of riding it can be nice to have a good chamois cream. I've been testing out Dave Zabriskie's product DZ Nutz...
... I'm guessing the name can be a bit repellant, but don't let it fool ya. This product lasts a long time, and I find I'm using less of it than Chamois Butt'r - a product I think is great.
By that I mean, a smaller amount of cream is needed. One, the cream itself seems to hold up longer; and two, because I need less per application the bottle lasts a good long time.
THIS MIGHT SOUND OBVIOUS, and might be something for you to consider... it's something I'm intentional about. My riding and exercise is highly varied... and I was reflecting on that while looking for a book I'd previously read, here's a sample books I've read this year...
... Major Taylor's biography - America's richest and most successful athlete and cyclist circa 1900, Rise of the Dungeon Master - Biography of Gary Gygax and the creation of Dungeons and Dragons, Blue Moon - a Jack Reacher novel, Subscribed - Tien Tzuo, Creativity - John Cleese...
... and that's just the first 5 books of probably 30 I've read this year...
... i vary my reading to be a better writer,
I vary my riding to be a better racer.
Yeah, I know yesterday's post Specificity = Speed might seem like a contradiction, but bear with me.
By doing a lot of different riding and racing I gather skills that can be applied elsewhere.
For example, mountain bikers very rarely will be in a road paceline and get into trouble.
Why?
Because mountain bikers also form pacelines offroad and inherently know to never trust the rider in front to pick the best line, let alone point things out.
Road riders, particularly the racers, develop tremendous 1, 3, and 5 minute power.
Why?
Because they know if they can just hang on to those violent accelerations things will calm down and be manageable again... while those without the power have been jettisoned.
Yes, I do a lot of different types of riding: road, gravel and mountain. And, I also do a fair amount of walking and surfing and paddling. Walking is just good. The surfing and paddling are great for upper body strength and core... and balance. Cycling, especially road, is all about straight forward... offroad uses some side to side balance, but nothing like standing on a surfboard on the ocean.
All that said... if you can swing another bike, get it. It doesn't need to be "pro", it just needs to function properly. If you can swing another sport, do it.
And, it's not just the additional skills you'll bring back to cycling but also the freshness you'll bring to the new riding and from the new riding to the one you really want to excel at.
Of course, if you're doing a lot of riding it can be nice to have a good chamois cream. I've been testing out Dave Zabriskie's product DZ Nutz...
... I'm guessing the name can be a bit repellant, but don't let it fool ya. This product lasts a long time, and I find I'm using less of it than Chamois Butt'r - a product I think is great.
By that I mean, a smaller amount of cream is needed. One, the cream itself seems to hold up longer; and two, because I need less per application the bottle lasts a good long time.
If you're looking for something new to protect your special purpose, check this out.
Use promo code: VARIETY
---
164.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4409777483
SPECIFICITY = SPEED
Nov 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THIS MIGHT SOUND OBVIOUS, it might not even be a thing for you... but for me, this is something I have to dial in. Ya see I like a lot of variety in my riding... and I was reflecting on that while listening to my top song's of 2020, according to Apple music. You could say there's some variety, here's a sample...
Paranoid - Black Sabbath, Put Your Lights On - Everlast, Bleed It Out - Linkin Park, Super Bad - James Brown, Landslide - Dixie Chicks, Symphony of Destruction - Megadeth.
... that's just the first 5 songs, much like the 5 days I ride...
Gravel Monday, Road Tuesday, Gravel or MTB Wednesday, Rest Thursday, Gravel Friday, Road or MTB Saturday.
That's no way to get prepped for a race... which is exactly what I'm hoping to do Saturday. Race the Dirty 30.
To that aim, I've upped my MTB a lot.
And it's showing results.
Lots of PRs on the downhill sections today.
One simple reason.
When you get really specific on your riding, getting as close as what you expect to be racing. Bike. Terrain. Weather. Time of day. etc.... you get a lot faster because you become one with your machine.
My mountain bike is my most complex machine by far.
Sure, there's only 1 shifter on the right hand. But there's a dropper post and 3 different suspension settings to work on the left hand.
Plus the brakes.
But, on an MTB locking up the rear wheel to line up a turn is a thing... as is getting on the binders so hard that the front wheel wants to give way. Neither of which is even a thought on the road.
Which is the point... specificity = speed.
You know what else equals speed? Being able to pack up efficiently and find all your gear when you get to the race.... which is why we created the RaceDay Bag™
Right you can get a loaded bag and save a load of cash.
$308 in product for $200.
PRO bag, changing poncho, Purist water bottles, PR Lotion, DZ Nutz, gloves, socks, and a tshirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ultimate-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
We never discount the RaceDay Bag™, ever. Offer ends Sunday 11/29.
Use promo code: IGIVEGOODGIFTS
You'll need to email help@customerservice with the colors and sizes of the items you want in your bag.
Y'all are awesome!
---
164
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4403752592
SKILLS AND THRILLS... A LAUGHING MATTER
Nov 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE MOST OVERLOOKED INGREDIENTS TO MASTERING MOUNTAIN BIKING IS LAUGHING. In my early years, my pal Garrett and I would scope out the hidden single tracks and dial them in...
... then take the rest of the fellas out, pretending like it was our first time.
To be sure, there were a lot of Oh shyte moments... but, it was all fun n games and the trickery was paid back many times.
The riding back then was a lot more adventurous.
We'd wander down cow paths wondering where they led. We'd drop off steep ledges wondering of the rickety equipment would hold up.
Bending a seat post isn't even a thing any more. Neither is carrying spokes and spoke tools.
Amidst all that breaking of parts and trespassing was a lot of laughter.
We weren't in a hurry, weren't rushing, weren't racing. We were learning, playfully approaching a new and exciting sport.
The last few weeks I've been taking out a young padawan, Rocky, on our local trails.
Today I was reminded of those old times. We dropped in on some truly steep stuff - 36% according to the Strava file - which I'd previously been down more than a few times.
There was a lot of stopping, a lot of hootin' and hollerin' and a lot of laughing... because it was so dern fun. Taking our time allowed the kid to recover and get ready to charge the next section.
Come to think of it... most of the teaching of sporty things that I've done in my life has involved a lot of laughter and time taking. It just works better...
... and the steep, technical MTBing works a lot better with a really solid connection to the handle bars. The kind of connection you get with our superlight race gloves.
These gloves are very light. Perforated 100% leather palms, perforated lycra tops. The form to your hand and give you great feedback.
For many, especially your very biased developer of said gloves, these are the only way to go... road, gravel or mountain.
And right now, buy 'em and get a pair of socks free...
... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
This code will stop working Saturday night.
---
163.6
Paddle
8.25 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4398985947
BATTLE OF THE 3 COURSE MEALS
Nov 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD PLAN. It usually does, but I've never seen it work. Ever. No matter what I do... it's always a fail on Friday morning.
Today's strategy was simple.
Rise with the sun and ride with the fellas, on an empty stomach.
Like all plans, the first part was easy to execute. Met 'em. Rode with 'em. Came home.
Next, get my ladies and go paddle boarding, on an empty stomach.
Like all plans, a hiccup occurred. I walked in to...
Guess what Tom brought over!
Tom is our neighbor who never brings anything over.
I dunno.
But, I could smell it. Homemade sourdough bread.
I'd built up a massive resistance to what I was sure she was going to tempt me with... a bear claw donut. I was ready to look that glazed goodness and walk on by...
... and that's why the sourdough and butter and honey was so deadly. I wasn't ready to say NO to that... am I ever?
Eventually we waddled across the sand and paddled.
I was kind of back on track because we came home cleaned up and headed down to our son's inlaws for a special occasion.
This is where I thought I could recover from the sourdough... and yes that dern bear claw.
Steve, my son's fatherinlaw, had expressed interest in getting a gravel bike so I brought down a loaner. We changed and took him out for his first ride in years. The running trails behind his home are a great place to gravel... and gravel we did.
He commutes by moto to work, so his handling skills were great... and he was suprised at how the bikes could climb and get across the sandy sections.
If I was a betting dude, I'd bet he'll be a lifer... but, I'd also bet on my having restraint with the appetizers...
... I was so close. I'd only slightly cheated. The fabulous turkey feast was a scant 30 minutes in the future...
... never bet on a starving rider to have restraint when the calories are so empty and plentiful.
At dinner, people were considering going for seconds... I'd already been.
At dessert, I didn't go for seconds... because it ain't seconds if you haven't had that flavor of pie yet.
So yeah... an absolutely successful and wonderful day: lots of riding, lots of time with my favorite peoples, lots a time to consider our good fortune.
Like many new riders, Steve didn't have gloves or socks... and I neglected to bring any extras...
... which is why we are brining back the BuyGlovesGetSocks promo code.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
We have lots of new colors in stock.
These are amazing superlight fullfinger race gloves and our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
This code will stop working Saturday night.
---
163.6
Paddle
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4394010600
https://www.strava.com/activities/4394600434
https://www.strava.com/activities/4395551729
THE TECH I'M GRATEFUL FOR
Nov 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M GRATEFUL FOR THREE PIECES OF TECH, the digital and electronic gizmos. Two are new to me and one is an old friend... I share them all liberally... errrr, I preach them all regularly.... mmmmmm, I love this stuff and you might too.
The old friend is Strava, for sure. If social media is of the devil, the I guess I'm going to helk... because I love Strava. Let me count the ways:
- At any time, I can look back over the years and see what I was doing and the effect it was having.
- Tracking my PRs and monitoring my progress.
- Encouraging my friends and receiving their encouragement.
- Searching out new routes and studying upcoming rides.
Those are my top 4.
Electric shifting on my MTB. While I've had it on my road bike and loved it, the new 12 speed, 1x drivetrains with with electronic shifting are amazing. For example:
- It's much faster and
- More precise than mechanical shifting
- and, kind to my old joints.
It took me a while to get used to. It's very sensitive and I would accidentally shift it in the beginning, but it's second nature now. Truly awesome.
Last is the HyperVolt. I've had it for about a month now and it's the only variable in my training that is new... meanwhile I feel incredibly recovered after some blistering workouts.
I've used rollers, I've had massages. There's plenty of discomfort with each and it never goes away while going through the treatment.
The HyperVolt is different.
I use it on my legs, feet, back, arms. Everywhere.
Here's the difference.
The only place I have real, true soreness is my legs. Mainly above the knee. Quads and hammies.
With the setting on 3, the strongest, and with the absorber attachment, I'll go over my legs and find a sore spot. I'll then spend some time there... and here's makes the HyperVolt so much better... I'll stay on that sore spot until the pain goes away.
That's a big difference.
Imagine your legs feel terrible, certain spots are sore to the touch and you have this gizmo that you can work your legs over with and the pain goes away. Such that, when you go upstairs they are remarkably recovered.
Could I live without Strava, E-shifting and they HyperVolt? Of course. Would I want to? Not for a minute.
If you're looking for just the right thing to give yourself...
... because let's be honest, the family/friends ain't gonna get it - just like all they didn't get you the aero helmet or fancyshmancy shoes...
... get they HyperVolt, put it under the tree with a note from Santa.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/hypervolt-w-bluetooth
I spent some time on the phone today with the manufacturer so I could understand the difference between this model and the new cheaper/lighter version.
You could get it, but I wouldn't.
It doesn't have level 3, only goes up to the equivalent of level 2. Also missing is the absorber attachment I love.
Use promocode: TECHILOVE to save $70... offer endsThursday 11/26/2020 11:59pm.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/hypervolt-w-bluetooth
PS... yes, the HyperVolt will get you 700 entries into the ENVE Wheel Giveaway
---
164.2 (so much backsliding)
Stretch and HyperVolt
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4391447910
I'M GRATEFUL FOR MY MVP SKILLS
Nov 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IN BUSINESS THERE IS A CONCEPT CALLED THE MINIMUM VIABLE PRODUCT. The idea is a company should create the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to go to market, and build from there as quickly as possible. We practice that here...
... yawn!
You don't care about that... but, you should care about Minimum Viable Power!
We also practice that.
It's the crafty move of going to the front at the bottom of a climb and drifting back but not getting dropped.
It's the wily cat who takes pulls like everyone else but is glued to the wheel in front, and rather than tapping brakes will slide to the side... both move save tons of watts.
It's learning how to corner, carrying speed in so you don't need to sprint out.
It's having a pristine drivetrain.
Where can you conserve energy? Carry speed? Stay off the brakes? Accelerate wisely?
There are myriad ways to use the Minimum Viable Power...
... and here's the kicker with MVP, as you figure 'em out...
... you'll have significantly more finishing energy..
... and when you unleash your mighty fury...
...and all the other competitors will see is your vanishing silhouette.
Speaking of unleashing, yesterday in my exuberance to unleash a killer promo to you my faithful readers I shared the code that the commoners will get on Friday... assuming any product is left.
My bad, but the offer is still insanely good.
$308 in product for $200.
The Ultimate RaceDay Bag™, loaded with the goods: PRO bag, changing poncho, Purist water bottles, PR Lotion, DZ Nutz, gloves, socks, and a tshirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ultimate-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
We never discount the RaceDay Bag™, ever. There are only 100 of these packages available. Only readers of the blog know about it... until Friday, then we'll promote it - if any remain.
Use promo code: IGIVEGOODGIFTS
You'll need to email help@customerservice with the colors and sizes of the items you want in your bag.
Y'all are awesome!
---
163.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep (too excited for toosday)
https://www.strava.com/activities/4385225942
I'M THANKFUL FOR BEING MOCKED
Nov 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I CAN COUNT ON MY HANDS AND FEET AND WITH THE HELP OF A SUPERCOMPUTER THE NUMBER OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHO MOCKED my love of cycling over the years and who now see the light. The runners who can no longer run, the moto riders who want to ride better and longer, the surfers who want a daily stoke, and my favorites the sedentary who realize there's an athlete inside each of us.
That mocking made me rock solid in my truth: riding bikes is a lifelong sport.
I was lucky enough to grab hold of that truth in my 20s. Over the years my commitment never waned, though my time and focus changed with the responsibilities of life. Still, even in my slouthest era I got out a couple of times a week.
We share truth with our friends and family because we know it's good.
Of course our kids all got bikes and can ride, one even raced for a while. Surfergirl and I still ride together. I rounded up bikes for my dad and brothers and all kinds of friends. Invited and encouraged. At one point my dad was riding his bike back to the office at night to stay in shape and put in a few more hours of lawyering.
Still there's that mocking.
I ain't wearing spandex!
Wouldn't a motor be more fun?
Don't your privates hurt?
You rode how far?
... you know 'em all
But, we stick with it... witnessing our health staying steady and often improving, while so many others are in decline.
And one day... if we're lucky... we live in a time when bicycle riding is more popular than it has been in decades.
What if they hadn't mocked us and we hadn't stuck with it? Would they be riding and improving their health today?
I dunno.
But, I do know those that ride would be thrilled to the moon to receive the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™, loaded with the goods: PRO bag, changing poncho, Purist water bottles, PR Lotion, DZ Nutz, gloves, socks, and a tshirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ultimate-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
We never discount the RaceDay Bag™, ever. There are only 100 of these packages available. Only readers of the blog know about it... until Friday, then we'll promote it - if any remain.
Use promo code: IGIVEGOODGIFTS
You'll need to email help@customerservice with the colors and sizes of the items you want in your bag.
Y'all are awesome!
---
164.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
8.1 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4382302022
I'M THANKFUL FOR SCARS
Nov 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DO CHICKS REALLY DIG SCARS? I was thinking about this while watching BLEED FOR THIS... the Vinnie Pazienza story, which is absolutely awesome if you're into comeback stories...
... I don't know if chicks dig 'em as much as dudes claim, but I do know I have more than a few.
There are the external scars: split eyebrow, knees ground to the bone, 3rd degree burns, wrist sanded down, simultaneously split shins, divot in my calf, countless flesh wounds...
The less visible: busted off end of collar bone, cracked radial head, permanent strawberry on hip (you can't see it, but I do every morning)...
These are all from doing things the things I love: bikes, motos, surfing, etc
Then there's the invisible internal shiz we get a helping of at some point along the way, the ones that hurt different...
In most instances, I've learned and improved... upgrading my skills, avoiding similar situations.
My scars are part of my journey...
... and I sure don't dig 'em in the moment, but...
... I'm grateful for each one, they have made me who I am.
A good way to avoid new scars is riding with great lights... and I'd like to help you any way I can to avoid the mistakes I've made.
Perhaps the biggest mistake I ever made while MTB night riding was going with only a headlight.
I had no idea what I was doing, and I figured a headlight would be better than a light on the bike.
Makes sense.
But, it's a terrible idea.
At night, it's the shadows that give you depth perception. A light mounted on your bars is lower than your eyes, so you see the shadow it casts and get an idea of the size of the obstacles in your way. A helmet light is not going to cast shadows because it's beam is on the same line as our eyeballs.
So there I was zipping over this large, round and flat rock... only it wasn't flat.
But it was large and round.
Next thing I know my hands are on the bars and me feet are over my head and I'm thinking This is gonna leave a mark!
Yes, you want a helmet light but you want it to be much weaker than the beam on your bike. The helmet light mainly helps you look into the bushes hoping you don't a pair of nocturnal hunting eyes staring back at ya.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
Use promo code: LIT
And remember to enter the $3000 ENVE Wheel Giveaway while your at it.
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164.2
Stretch and HyperVolt
7;5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4365411286
I'M THANKFUL FOR FRIENDS OLD AND NEW
Nov 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WE HAD A COUPLE OF NEW GUYS JOIN US TODAY... now there are two ways to handle new guys: one, roll out easy and get to know them; two, punch their ticket and see if they have any game...
... can ya guess what we always opt for, and why?
It's not personal, it's for their own good.
The sooner we can get rid of them or not get rid of them the better.
If we get rid of them, we've saved them hours of torture and potentially getting lost and/or hurt. If we can't get rid of them, then we know we've got some gamers that are gonna push us.
We didn't get rid of them, which was awesome.
Eventually we settled into a fast, challenging pace but one were we could still chat and get to know each other. Turns out one of them, Brian, grew up near me and we have a few friends in common.
Whether or not this bromance will flourish is uncertain.
What is certain is the extreme gratitude I felt all ride to have made really great friends over the years. Each of these dudes inspires me in the way they live their lives, honor their commitments and cherish their families.
The ladies, bless their hearts, think it's just a bunch of guys being kids on a Saturday. But, we know better... it's this wheel time that helps us be the kinda dudes they want to keep around.
Just because I'm also grateful Surfergirl totally understands the meaning of this t-shirt... let's make it a buy 1 get 1 promo
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
The code is: THANKFULFORFRIENDS
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
---
163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4371323805
IT'S OUR FOR THE TAKING
Nov 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAD THIS EMAIL ALL CHARTED OUT ON MY RIDE THIS MORNING, while I was shredding single track on my kick@$$ BMC URS. I was soooo fired up. But now all I can recall is the title...
... it happens when your HR is tickling the clouds it's so high.
It went something like this...
We are the take charge types... not waiting for anyone to tell us what to do... we get things done.
We take risks... not RedBull Rampage risks... but going for things well beyond our current capabilities.
We take responsibility... when our plans fail, when our risks don't pay off... we look at the person in the mirror.
... and that's why it ours for the taking, so few live this way.
I'll be saddling up early tomorrow, heading out with a bunch of stallions who could be my kids and sticking it to 'em as hard as I can until they leave me for dead... and I'm totally cool with that. It's my plan, my risk and my responsibility to keep The Old Diesel in tiptop shape.
Speaking of the URS, fondly known as The Highlighter as it's generally the highlight of my day and often my week, the time has come for it to find a new home.
This is without a doubt the funnest bike I've ever owned and the only reason I'm letting it go is because a new model is arriving in my size.
It is in Excellent Condition.
You're probably wondering if it's fast... helk yeah! I've been keeping up no prob on the local flat group rides, keeping up slight problem on the hilly A version of the TMWC - fastest weekday ride around.
Is it comfortable?... Totally! There's a little micro bumper in the rear triangle that affords 20mm of travel, which is super sweet on the fast washboardy stuff.
Is it light?... pretty dern light for an entry level gravel slayer.
Does it handle well?... well? Try amazing. If you want a bike that can jump and slay singletrack this is the one.
The very first day I had it I picked off, without even tryin', a bunch of PRs on the local steep fire roads.
That's the kind of confidence this bike delivers.
If I had to chose one bike, this is the one... only thing I'd add is a second set of wheels for road.
The retail on this bike is $4k. I'll take $3k... and yes, you'll get 3000 entries into our killer ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
PS... if you want a new version of this bike LMK
---
162.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4365411286
HOW GOOD IS YOUR CROSSTRAINING?
Nov 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I THINK I HAVE THE PERFECT CROSSTRAINING SPORT:
__ It's fun
__ Strengthens my core, a lot
__ Sharpens my balance
___ and, I can get bonus points by taking Surfergirl along
So, I strapped on the Wahoo and fired up Strava to get some data.
It's not good.
Or, is it?
Today's effort vs last night's MTB effort
Max h. r. 107 vs 176
Average h.r. 96 vs 144
Relative Effort 6 vs 193
It's a lot easier on The Old Diesel's ol' ticker. Honestly, that's probably a good thing and it's still a great workout. When I'm done I have a similar feeling to a good swim workout... my upper body is pumped up and feels strong.
Plus, what other activity is going ticks the boxes of fun, core, balance and bonus points?
Not many.
I think the key for crosstraining is that it is fun and works on other parts of your body that you'll also need to be a strong bike rider. The fun part, so we are consistent. Strengthening other parts of our body, like our core, can make a huge difference in bike handling.
When I finally pick a date for next year to do a training camp here in San Clemente, we are for sure including time on the water...
... 'cause paddleboarding is a lotta fun.
Maybe that's what inspired this new jersey design?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1
Didja know we make all our apparel here in CA? That we import the finest fabrics from Italy? It's true. Then we print the fabrics, cut them with a laser beam, and sew them one at a time. Custom. Just for you... and me.
These jerseys will be ready to ship in about 2 weeks. You can order now...
... and earn 100 entries into the $3000 ENVE Wheel Giveaway.
Click here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1
---
163.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
8.2 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4360937653
THE GREAT EDDIE B
Nov 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE GODFATHER OF MODERN AMERICAN BICYCLE RACING AND COACHING HAS PASSED AWAY. Eddie B. I read two tributes today, and will add my own.
Velonews, the boring and uncreative steward of US Cycling reportage, simply stated he was a coach who headed the '84 Olympic team and somehow wound up the history of this man with a banal dump in the doping gutter.
Chris Carmichael, who legitimized the cycling coaching profession for thousands of coaches, reminisced on his time under Eddie's tutelage and the advice he received when he chose the same profession: Keep the good of the athlete central at all times.
To which I will add my own comment.
Somewhere, buried under the countless books I've read is a little section with Cycling Training. There's Joe Friel's book, and Lemond's and Armstrong's and Ned's... but, Eddie's was the first and only book I could find in the late 80's.
Imagine that.
Only one person in the US was putting any effort into finding and developing bicycle racers in any meaningful way such that a dork like me could learn a thing or two.
I tried buddying up to the local legends, but it was fruitless. And the bike shops were worse. The prevailing arrogance of those in the know was disgusting and turned many a would be lifer into a why bother move on'r.
But, somehow I found the book... in fact, it might have been in the printed - and, at the time very cool - pages of Velonews.
There is no one thing gleaned from Eddie that I can point to today which made a difference in my attempts to move from a lowly 4 to a 3. No technique per se.
However, there was hope...
... and that's all most of us needed. The simple concept that we could get better if we'd put together a plan and stick to it was revolutionary. Because up that point the only plan was ride a lot.
I never knew or met Eddie, but if I'd run into him here's what I would have said...
Thanks for giving me hope and a plan, man.
Which is exactly the same thing I get from my current Coach Brian McCulloch. I'm a less than ideal student. Headstrong... and woefully dependent on racing vs structured workouts. He patiently listens, instinctively knows what I need, and forcefully puts for the plan he is certain I will stick to, that will stretch me but not burn me out... which is a long way of saying he gives me hope and a plan.
If you'll indulge me a little... that thinking is pretty much all we instill on anybody we are tasked with helping along life's paths. It's all we can do as parents... as a wise man once said, I teach them correct principles and let them govern themselves.
Which is pretty much all I try and accomplish in these daily missives. Pass along what I've learnt.
One thing I've learnt - such a fun word! - is of all the upgrades you can do to your bike the one that will make the biggest difference and give you the most bang for your buck is wheels...
Which is why I'm so excited about our $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway... somebody, maybe you, is gonna get a serioso upgrade.
... but, the other thing I've found is giving your body an upgrade is even more important which is why I preach so much about PR Lotion and the HyperVolt. PR Lotion removes the burn I feel when getting after it on the bike and the HyperVolt gets into my damaged muscles every evening after said getting after it has been gotten after.
Get entered.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
Every dollar purchase you make between now and 12/31 gets you an additional entry into the drawing... but you have to enter.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4358429438
RELEASE YOUR KRAKEN!
Nov 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
i'M TRYING TO PUT INTO WORDS WHAT IT FELT LIKE TODAY... we were charging up this undulating climb. I was struggling to hang... going from the front to the back of the group, then off the back, then back on... and as the top got closer I started to feel better.
I moved up a bit.
Finally, we could see the top... and I just thought to myself...
Screw it, I'm going for it.
And why not? Even though the ride was far from over, even though I'd pay for it for miles to come... I had to do it, had to unleash my Kraken, come what may.
It felt so good to go all out, to win that tiny hill top.
Later in the ride, at a crucial moment, I was dropped. I never caught back on. And, I didn't care one bit.
That little win powered me all day.
#worthit.
You know what win might power you all day, all week, all month, all year?
The $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
Have you entered?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
It won't hurt, I promise.
Just click the link and check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.6 lbs
Stretch N Hypervolt
6 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4351617761
ONLY KEEP THE JERSEYS THAT TALK.
Nov 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE FACT IS WE'VE ALL GOT A DRAWER FULL OF OLD RACE JERSEYS... that any normal person would toss. But we won't, ever. We might pare it down from time to time, but they'll always be a few keepers.
We keep the ones that talk... that remind of that day when... that ride.. that win... that team...
... those are the only ones of value.
They're also the ones my friend Brett collects, the ones that belong to his world famous Horton Collection.
Not yours... but the jerseys of the truly great racers from the last 100 years.
And not just the jerseys, but the photos and posters and trophies... and we're lucky enough to use some of the images for our products.
Check these images we're using for a new RaceDay Bag™ called The Tour... all from epic Tour de France battles.
We're already in production on the first batch and will be shipping them in a few weeks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/horton-collection/products/the-tour-raceday-bag
We have other Horton Collection products in the pipeline... and the excellent news is any purchase of these products will get you in the...
Have you entered yet? It's so easy.
Just click here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4346807518
TOP SECRET TRAINING REPORT - DIRTY 30 PREP
Nov 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
HEY THERE RACERS... it's The Old Diesel's helmet checking in. I can accurately report that he's been working his fanny off since getting shelled last month at the Cactus Cup...
... remember that pathetic video he posted?
Oh, he was completely shattered.
Not surprising.
He was overconfident... thought he could handle the heat, thought his legs were ready for that unrelenting desert terrain, thought he'd show the yokels his CA style...
... oh, he had that beating coming.
But, good news!
Yesterday he casually mentioned posting a good time on a famous climb. He PRd it. Yeah, broke a 7 year old record by 10 seconds. I know, it's not much on a 54 minute effort, but give him a break. His carbon is a bit dated.
Anyway, it would be a good sign, except...
... in a celebratory moment of weakness he pounded a pint of McConnell's.
What a dummy!
Today wasn't much better, sure he fasted until Noon, ate a light lunch...
... but, then Surfergirl busted out the chips and the kids all came over for barbecue and pie and more ice cream.
He's going to wake up fat and ticked off tomorrow.
I like it when he's like that, because we ride fast. Probably too fast for a Monday, meaning his legs are going to be heavy for the Tuesday Morning World Championships... and even worse for DRTY WDNSDY.
Oh it's gonna be a helluva week... him wanting to undue his bad deeds.
Personally, I'm not sure the old guy has it in him to post a fast time in 3 weeks at the Dirty 30. Especially not if he keeps falling off the wagon.
The only hope is something he keeps in the house. I'm not sure what it is exactly, but he says it's made his legs feel like magic. Maybe that explains the PR Saturday... and being able to pound it hard last Tuesday and Wednesday?
I think it's this thing he's raving about, the HyperVolt...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
If it is... don't share his results with others. Just get the dern thing for yourself and keep it on the downlow.
Promo code: REKUVR
PS... apparently the HyperVolt will get you 700 Entries into the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
---
164.2
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4344250934
I BLEED IT OUT
Nov 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S CHILDS PLAY TO BLEED SPEEDING DOWNHILL, it's helluva lot harder to do it charging up a technical single track. Amiright? I mean it was 10 miles, 3451' of vert, and no I didn't crash...
... we were just hauling gas.
We stopped at the top.
I looked down and my arms were covered in blood.
It didn't hurt. Nothing hurt. That's the kind of day we had today.
Determined to break my old bad habit of slowly building speed on this type of climb, I raced to the trailhead first with 2 of my mostfastest friends glued to my perfectly aired up knobbies.
Knowing they'd be eversoslightly peeved that I'd snuck ahead, I just went for it. Charging hard. So unlike The Old Diesel. Their gasps of What the! only urged me on... making me pedal even harder. Something I'd never do if I were going for a PR.
It's good to break habits.
Normally, I'd let my pals go first and gap me and then do my derndest to reel them back in.
Never again.
Why... well, I've got a few MTB races on my radar and those races can be won or lost by being at the front or back of the pack at the first single track.
I did a few other things besides slay it right from the start:
- I'm lighter than I have been in years.
- All week I've hit my legs with the HyperVolt.
- I woke up early and warmed up my legs in a hot bath.
- Liberally applied PR Lotion.
- The intermittent fasting seems to have altered the way my body consumes and needs calories. I'm consuming less on the rides and feeling better.
- Cranked up Linkin Park's Bleed It Out to get pumped.
- The new BMC 4 Stroke is by far the best XC bike I've ever ridden.
Interestingly I didn't:
- Eat a big breakfast, just a handful of nuts.
- Warm up at all on the bike, just drove over and got after it.
And that blood on my arms?...
... well it wasn't from fighting a mountain lion as I hinted on the Instagram post, which a few folks believed... hahahahaha
This climb is called the San Juan Trail and it's lined with a very hearty and thorny scrub brush... cut the corners and it snags and slices your skin.
Doesn't hurt at all, just looks awesome when it mixes with the sweat on your arms.
After the ride Jimmy came over and said...
I really hope I win those ENVE™ wheels so I can keep up with you.
He might.
You might.
Someone will.
Do you know why we love ENVE™ wheels... it ain't just their sexy name, or because their lighter or more aero or faster... and those are all dern good reasons, but not good enough.
We love ENVE™ wheels because when it's on the line, they give peace of mind.
Have you entered?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
It won't hurt, I promise.
Just click the link and check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.3 lbs
Stretch N Hypervolt
7.3 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4338266395
THAT WE MIGHT HAVE JOY
Nov 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE FIRST TIME I WAS INITIATED INTO THE HARDING TRUCK TRAIL WAS TRAUMATIC. Four of us went - Eric, Jeff, Brad and Young Diesel. Two summited. Two walked...
... I got blisters.
It was supposed to be Off Season Cross Training. The two guys that actually raced a lot, Eric and Jeff, invited us along. Probably just for the entertainment factor.
The 9 mile climb on mountain bikes was about 8 miles further than either Brad or I had ever ridden uphill. It became slog, a death march.
We stopped multiple times. Checked the time. Wondered if we'd made a wrong turn, even though there were no turns to make.
We were cursing their names for leaving us, and cursing ourselves for being so dumb to be caught on this giant mountain without a clue of what to expect.
Finally, they came ripping around a corner... huge grins on their faces... they were having a blast.
I've since rounded that same corner hundreds of times. Sometimes just cruising, others pushing hard trying to set a PR. Each time I've wondered why I pressed on with cycling and others like Brad quit.
Maybe some of us like to suffer more than others... or maybe we see the connection between work and joy?
Today was Rocky's first ride in years. He's our head of design, and he just got a super sweet BMC Trail Fox. After a 40 minute ride on the local trails...
... he said, I think I might puke...
... that's a pretty dern good sign he'll be a lifer.
Speaking of life, did you know ENVE™ warrants their wheels for life... which is exactly why I hope you win...
... our $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
All ya gotta do is click that there link below.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
It won't hurt, I promise.
Just click the link and check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163 lbs
Stretch N Hypervolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4332715729
THE WISHLIST FOR WINNERS
Nov 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF WISHLISTS: 1 is for winners, 1 is for winers. And no Sparky, I ain't talking about that shiny red two-wheeler you hope is under the tree for the 20th year in a row. That would be wishing for something different, which is exactly what winers do. You are not a winer...
... you are a winner.
Which is why you probably subconsciously know this truth to be self-evident.
We don't wish things were different, things like:
- Our competition was slower
- The wind was at our backs
- The course was easier
- The entry fee lower
- Blah
- Blah
- Blah
We wish for one thing only:
- We wish we were better.
Why?
Because we're the only variable we can control. When we get better, everything else gets easier.
Check this comment from JC, this is what it's all about:
This year, by the way, was my most consistent year of training -- 12 straight months of five days/week, mostly on the indoor trainer -- and the race I did last weekend (Austin Rattler) was so much more enjoyable than races I'd done in years' past. Flying by people going up climbs, carving through loose corners, etc. I don't know when I will ever reach the "mastery" you describe, but I feel a whole lot closer.
The question is of course... how much better would he be with a set of $3000 ENVE™ Wheels?
You know, the ones you can win when you purchase a bottle of magical PR Lotion...
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
... yep, purchase 1 bottle of AMP PR Lotion and you'll get 175 entries into the drawing.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
162 lbs
Stretch N Hypervolt
7 hrs sleep
PaddleSurf
SHE MADE ME WORK SO HARD, THEN SAID GOOD NIGHT
Nov 11, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S MY DERN FAULT. I pick the time to start the ride. Everybody meets. I'm late. They usually wait. But, not t'night. Was it something I said...
... could it have been Keep up or know your way home?
As usual, I'd lost track of time and found myself full throttle trying to do a 20 minute ride in 12 minutes. I got there 6 minutes late. When I came a round the bend I could see their silhouettes high on the ridge above. It would take me 5 minutes to get there.
I wouldn't see them for another 42 minutes.
I was smoked when I finally caught them.
We had to cross a street, to keep ripping the singletrack.
The light was red.
It turned green way too soon.
They took off like they were shot from a cannon.
All 3 of 'em, full gas... and the girl, that dern newgirl, who I'd warned to know her way home was sticking it to The Old Diesel...
... $%^&!
Of course I wasn't really saying $%^&!... I was thinking $%^&girl, look at you go!
One thing is for $%^& sure... I hope she doesn't win our
$3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
Actually, I do hope she wins... but you know who hopes she doesn't win... all those ladies who are gonna line up with her when she finally does her first race.
The only question I have is who is going to text me first when she drops me for good asking I found my home... her or her hubsand who already drops me at will.
Do me a favor and check out the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway... I really want to lower her odds of winning. Yes, I'm that shallow and Yes, I'm that kind of a friend.
---
163.4
Stretch N Hypervolt
6.8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4318267015
THE 4 LETTER WORD NO RIDER WANTS TO HEAR
Nov 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A LOT OF SALTY LANGUAGE IN THE OL' PELOTON. Some from the couthless. Some from the dropped. Some from the flatted. But, none of it comes close to the 4 letter word bike riders don't want to hear...
... and, yes, I do mean to shame them.
Don't get me wrong, bike riding is a wonderful thing to do. It's just that, there's a whoppingbig difference between riding and racing.
Riding is fine.
Racing is refined.
Riding is fun.
Racing is damnfun.
Have you guessed the 4 letter word? Trust me, riders don't want to hear it... and e-riders, bless their lowbeating hearts, disdane it.
WORK.
There.
I said it.
There is no other way to master the bike without racing. It doesn't have to be formal, and 99% of the time it's not. So don't fret your germfearingself with visions of failure. There's plenty of racing to do all by your lonesome.
When we really work at getting better, 'cause that what racing does, we have the potential to maximize our... uh, potential. Ya follow?
Hobbying around is dandy, and if you're on an electric motorcycle with pedals at least you're outside - and I don't mean the elderly and those battling disease, I mean the young and lazy.
I was reminded of this when Rocky shared the video that inspired him to ride MTB as a wee highschooleree. The riders aren't pinned up, the bikes aren't plated, but they are going all out... on the jagged edge of megadanger. Watching those cats inspired him to build jumps and let it all hang out.
That's racing.
It takes work. Lots of it.
Work. Work. Work... your lycracovered hiney off.
There's no substitute for the results of cycling mastery...
... I mean, if you're into that sort of thing...
... if you're not, mediocrity is coo'
Nah... we're into mastery over here. We're also into riding and racing the very best.
So, we created the great and amazing ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
If you're into getting SUPERAWESOME free stuff that will help you demolish your old PRs, then click here now:
What are you waiting for? You know you want a new set of ENVEs!
---
163.4
Stretch N Hypervolt
6.8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4318267015
RIP THE SCAB OFF!
Nov 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMETIMES, LIKE RIGHT THIS SECOND, I JUST GOTTA OWN MY SHIZ. While I'd really, really, really, really like to lie about something. Not even gonna sugar coat it. Because we all know...
... it's best to rip the scab off.
I reckon you're like me, prefer to just talk about the good stuff, the wins, the PRs... and very heavily gloss over the bad stuff, the losses, the major steps backwards.
But, if there's one thing I learned from the great David Goggins... until we own our shiz, we're gonna be stuck.
And who wants to be stuck?... like when you get caught out by a deluge and the mud turns to cement, sucking your shoes off... or you get to the top of the climb 12 miles from civilization and get a flat, and you don't have the necessarys to fix it... or when you've bonked in the middle of nowhere and your energy has vamoosed on ya, and you forgot your wallet...
... who wants that?
Nobody.
But, bike riders like us, as good as we are, can still really screw things up.
What don't I want to own up to right now? Oh, just packing on 5 lbs in the last 10 days by simply cheating a little teencyweency bit every day.
It happens.
I know.
Too often I've "forgotten" to record my weight on those days. Been eversotempted to fudge the numbers on the blog.
But, here's el problemo.
Next week or month or year... I'll want to review where I was today and if I don't record anything, it's not that it didn't happen, it's that I can't learn from what happened... can't make adjustments... can't recognize further failure nor marked improvement.
Yeah, I'm into recording shtuff. I'm into owning my shiz. I'm into improving...
... and I'm really into this Hypervolt for recovery.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
It's so very, very good and working out all the damage we do on the really hard days... the ones where we just might be taking out our foulups on the roads, trails and hearts we hammer.
I'm going to need it tomorrow night, for sure.
Promo code: FIRSTTHINGSFIRST expires Sunday.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
---
164.4
30 PullUps/100 PushUps
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4314622794
TIME. TRIALS.
Nov 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
FIXING FLATS WAS A SKILL THAT MATTERED when racing mountain bikes in the early years. We even carried a few links of chain, because busting the chain was a regular thing. Our lights weighed pounds and barely lit the trail...
... but that's nothing.
Imagine the early racers from the 1890's on the "safety bicycles", what we'd consider a beach cruiser. Super heavy, no gears. Still clocking over 30mph.
Or, the PennyFarthing... a front wheel up to 5' tall, with a tiny wheel behind.
I remember my friend's vintage Italian racer with a front derailleur that was shifted by reaching down with his hand to grab a lever and move it over.
Today's bicycles are so good, so easy to use, so incredibly reliable... well, it kinda makes ya wonder if we'd even be bike riders were we to face the trials of the early bikes...
... not really!
Of course, we'd still be riding. We'd just be a lot more skilled at fixing things and probably a tad more banged up from breaking things... like bones.
These days, we pretty much have 2 concerns:
Did I pump up my tires?
Charge my batteries - computer, shifters, lights?
Well did ya?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
If you like tshirts that get softer the more you wear them, with ink you can't even feel... then you'll love our t's.
Use promo code: TIME
Yes, they ship for free... and cost less than twenty smackers if you act quickly.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
---
?
Stretch
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4310865487
ESCAPE IS ALWAYS A POSSIBLITY
Nov 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AT THE TOP OF A LOCAL CLIMB TODAY I could see far across the ocean. There's a sense of freedom sailors have knowing the can pull up the anchors and escape in the big blue. We have it too, at least I think we do.
Most of us live outside of the dense metropolitan areas. Without much effort we can pedal beyond the concrete jungles.
Having done it many times, we become like the sailors. Knowing that if we had to, we cold quickly put piles of miles between ourselves and any potential problems.
We add to that confidence on days like today, rainy/snowy/blistering heat...
... which is exactly why I rolled out knowing I would quickly get caught in the storm.
To build that sense of confidence. To feel what nature can do. These are the reasons to ride when it's less than ideal.
The foul weather riders are the ones who are best able to get away... even if it's just to escape for a few hours to clear our heads.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/100-brisker-gloves
These gloves won't save ya in the snow, but they are right toasty on the cold and wet days.
Use promo code ESCAPE to save.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/100-brisker-gloves
---
162
Stretch
6 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4305407777
FIRST THINGS LAST
Nov 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S A LOT HARDER SAID THAN DONE. First things first. Sounds so commonsensical. Should be easy as pie. But, it's not. Much more difficult than...
... coasting down a gentle grade.
It's can be impossible, and I was reminded of it today.
I'd planned, planned!, to keep the momentum of waking up early that I'd started the week off with - due to the time change.
Get up, do my reading, go for a spin, head on in.
Buttttttt... I got derailed. Overslept a teeence - like 10 minutes - which put me in the crosshairs of the almighty Honey, can you help me with something which lead to the Remember to do the...
... not to fear though, because the workday was slated to be very productive in the morning, with an easy afternoon. Just had to stay the course and Rocky and I'd be out in time to take his new BMC MTB for some dirtripping.
Next thing I know... we've nailed a new promotional video - you're gonna love it, done a bunch a work, and met with CHill for his team's 10th Anniversary kits - we LOVVVE designing in person...
... and the sun has set.
My first thing, getting out for a spin...
... has become no thing.
And that's the hard part about putting first things first... we must actually put them first.
If there's one thing I've learned, there's always more work to do... and if I put taking care of my health off to the end of day, it's soon the end of the entire day...
... and I want to have a lot more healthy days.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
Which is why tonight I'll be digging deep with my Hypervolt.
You're probably wondering what that is... think of a thousand trained hands working out all the kinks in your overworked muscles.
How good would that feel?
How much better would your legs perform?
Promo code: FIRSTTHINGSFIRST expires Sunday.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
---
163.2
30 PullUps/100 PushUps
8 hrs sleep
no ride :(
LET'S GO CRAZY
Nov 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
MOST OF US. All of us? Ride the same rides, the same dern way. We have our little move, the thing we can do mostly better than all others. It works. We do it. Let's go crazy next ride...
... ride it totally diffferent.
Wheelsuckers, attack!
Attackers, suckwheel!
Climbers, roll those flats!
Flatlubbers, hit those climbs hard!
Change it thehell up.
If ya have a gravel bike or MTB, take it to the fast road ride.
Take the roadbike offroading.
Are we gonna let the elevator bring us down?
Oh no. Let's go...
Endurance feinds, nothing but hard short rides.
Power freaks, drop some LongSlowDistance.
We've got nothing to lose, nothing to prove, and ev' ree thang to gain should we chance upon a superpower we never knew we had.
Only one way to find out.
... Crazy!
Which might require getting up errrrleee or stayin' our L8.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo
If yer a roadie, this is a mighty fine set up. 1000 lumens on the front, and eye searing red on the back.
Use promo code CRAZY to save 20%.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo
---
162
Stretch n Roll
7ish hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4290309626
AN OLD ADAGE AND A SOLID TRUTH
Nov 04, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOME SAY IT'S NOT THE SIZE OF YOUR PEN THAT MATTERS, but the quality of your penmanship. This may be true about getting down things on paper, but certainly doesn't translate to getting down or going up...
... on a mountain bike, at night.
Nope, at night on a mountain bike a bigger light makes up for all kinds of deficiencies. And, if you're really pro about it you'll have two lights.
One on your head.
One on your bike.
Now, a lot of folks get this all bassakwards, so let me 'splain it to ya.
Shadows are everything with night riding. It's the shadows that give you depth perception. No shadows and that big rock is going to look flat... and you'll soon be flat on your back if you're not careful.
Here's the set up you want.
A very, very powerful flood light on your bike.
The beam should be aimed far down the trail. Done correctly, you'll get a ton of shadows. You need those to give your brain a chance to register the terrain ahead.
A low power spot light on your head.
This low power light will help you see ahead of you handlebars. Unless you're going straight ahead your bars are trailing your vision. Examples would be turns and dropoffs. In daylight you're eyes are scanning far ahead of where your bars actually pointed. At night, this low power light will be lighting up where you're planning to go but not be so bright as to wash out the shadows created by the much more powerful flood light on your bike.
If you have to choose one light, get the powerful floodlight on your bike.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
This combo is the only reason I was even close to MSmith tonight. The flood light is so amazingly powerful, even on the low setting you'll get lots of shadows.
This little feller is light as a feather, and the perfect spot light for peaking around corners or over dropoffs.
If you're secret Santa needs a big fat hint, share this post...
... and share this promo code: GOTTALIGHT
It's a buy 1, save 25% on the 2nd light... and free shipping.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
---
163.6
Pull Ups/Push Ups
7ish hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4287859853
IT PAYS TO LOSE
Nov 03, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMETIMES LOSING IS BETTER THAN WINNING. Like today. When I got crushed on the local group ride. My head was hanging pretty low...
... staring down at the ground.
Where lay a crisp $20.
It's like that sometimes.
One of the things I liked back in the good ol' days of categorized racing with huge fields was we lost a lot. And, with every loss we'd limp home boundanddetermined to do better next time.
With a little luck, and a helluva lot of hard work, we'd score some points... maybe get a win... and advance to the next level of racing.
Rinse and repeat.
I've seen my fair share of athletes who come in, get an easy win and move on rather than moving up.
The money is in the losing, that's where we become better. Where we learn to win at whatever we put our minds to.
While you can't always win... you can still score...
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/water-bottles
Yes, you can have two of these excellent water bottles delivered for less than $20.
Use promo code: CRISP
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/water-bottles
---
1643.6
Stretch n Roll
6.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4281217764
MAKE IT COUNT
Nov 02, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ON THE LONG LIST OF THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK is something I don't feel like doing. It could be the time change. The turn to cold weather. Maybe just burnout...
... nevertheless, I'm gonna do it.
Get up earlier than most. Put on less clothes than most. Go my bike faster than most. Eat better than most. Do more than most...
... because I'm committed to be healthier than most.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/face-masks
These are our fleece face masks. Made here in our factory.
Use promo code - MAKEITCOUNT - it's a buy 3, get 3 promo code.
So, when you purchase 6 half of them will be free.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/face-masks
---
164.8 lbs (fell off the wagon last weekend)
Stretch n Roll
8.2 hrs
no ride
TOURIST INFO - NEXT EXIT - ON A WINTER'S DAY
Oct 31, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I TOOK MY BIKE WIDOW, aka Surfergirl, vanping up the coast. Some of us, me, Have a tough time riding with our betters. But, this was a hit...
... camping at Emma Wood's State Beach.
We rolled out for a lovely morning pedal north along the water's edge. A stunning winter's day. Pancake flat. Eversoslight headwind.
Pardon the hashtag, but... #browniepoints.
An hourish in, and we were set to turn back. It was at the bottom of a famous climb. She caught me looking forlornly as my people, chiseled and svelte, were heading up.
Where does that go?
Oh, I think (I knew dernwell) it might go inland and circle back to where we started.
You should go that way?
Up there?
Yeah, I'll be fine.
Magic words.
Going up was wonderful. It's a great climb, on a typical CA country road. No options to turn for miles. Just go up, and down, and twist around.
But, here's the thing. I wasn't 100% sure which way to go after an hour of bliss, and TBH... me hates stopping and looking at giggle maps.
Instead, I did something truly radical...
... I stopped a couple of times and talked to humans.
I said things like Good morning, do you know if this goes...
... and they responded with, Hi there... yes it does just go...
Bold, I know... as the great Nacho Libre says, Sometimes when you are a man you wear stretchy pants and ask for help.
You also wear stretchy socks, made in these United States of ours with FastMax Compression Technology and EZ Breathe yars.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/new-socks
I know I said this was ending on 10/31, but my bike widow is begging to go window shopping on State Street in Santa Barbara... and, well, I got a lot more good deeds to do before next race season.
Buy 2 get 1 free.
Use promo code: INTERMITTENT
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/new-socks
---
? lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4268332692
I KNOW YOU, AND YOU ARE...
Oct 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I LEARNED SOMETHING THIS MONTH, and I think it applies athletes like us. To who we are. I put out a job opening ad, just like the one I posted in June. Word for word. Only this time I added...
... if you're awesome, we want you.
In June I received about 20 resumes.
In October I received 2, one said I'm awesome.
At the core of every endurance athlete I've ever met, and I've met a lot, is an inner knowledge that they are awesome.
Skill level has nothing to do with.
Nor do published results.
It's just a feeling that come what may... I got this.
And, I love that.
Guys like MK who found us somehow and stopped in today.
That's an incredible bike, man!
Yeah, I just raced it 350 miles across Arizona with no support... not even water.
That's who we are... we may never sign up for an event like that, but we know we could do it if we had to.
Have an awesome weekend...
... and buy some awesome socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/new-socks
Act quick, because I'm only going to do until the end of the month.
Buy 2 get 1 free.
Use promo code: INTERMITTENT
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/new-socks
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161
Stretch n Roll
8.2 hrs
no ride today
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