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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
>
3 THINGS I'VE LEARNED WHILE INTERMITTENT FASTING
Oct 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THIS IS GONNA BE QUICK, because I just ate a late and huge dinner with our friends The Gentleman and Lady Luck. No big deal...
... 'cause I've been intermittent fasting.
For the uninitiated that means I've compressed my food intake window from 16 hours to 8ish. Some people compress it down to 6 or even 4 hours when they'll be eating, and the rest of the time they're not.
K.
Here are the 3 things I've learned:
- It's not that hard, once you go a few days and establish a new routine. For me, that means not eating until around 1pm.
- You will lose weight, for sure.
- You will realize how much less food you need, and be surprised at how much you've been overeating.
That third one is really a mind blower. It took me until today to realize I'm spending a lot less at the grocery store.
Bonus section:
- I feel really good. There's that 9am when I think, oh I should eat... then I don't, instead I get a ton of things done and kazaam it's 1pmish and I'm thinking I guess I should eat.
- I seem to be sleeping better... but, honestly, that could be it's just finally cooled off (we don't have a/c) and the sun is rising later.
- It seems like it will be easy to maintain.
That third one is a game changer. If you've haven't dropped 5lbs lately, it's a big deal... and you'll go a lot faster on your bike.
Those lost pounds of course have their intrinsic weight, but they also suck up resources - like oxygen to stay alive. So, if you think about it, losing some ballast is like sleeping at altitude.
And, when you sleep at altitude your feeties can get cold... so you might wear socks, which means you might need a few extra pair of socks...
... isn't it great that we just received some new spiffy colors?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/new-socks
Yes it is great, 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
---
161.4
Stretch n Roll
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4260726648
THE NCAA OF GRAND TOURS
Oct 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
FOR ME, THE BEST GRAND TOUR IS LA VUELTA. The courses are more interesting, the outcome less predictable, the competitors more emotional and more willing to take risks to win it all...
... a lot like our NCAA vs NBA/NFL...
... just a helluvalot more fun to watch and follow.
If you get a chance to watch Stage 7 you'll see what I'm talking about. It was won by a former runner... a man who once ran a sub-4 minute mile.
Now, the thing I like about that is it's one of the only ways for us regular athletes to put in perspective who special these men are. We've all run a mile. We all know our best time... and it's nowhere near sub-4.
And that's kinda like the NCAA football teams that have receivers who are also running world class 100 meter times.
The Vuelta also seems to have dramatic lead changes. Roglic was leading, now he's trailing. Carapez is leading, but I'll bet he'll lose that lead.
Which is a lot like an NCAA basketball game, where we see huge lead swings.
Speaking of lead swings...
... Matt took us out for his powerloop today. One power climb after another. He was hammering us the entire way except for the last climb where I finally got him good.
Of course he blamed it on forgetting his superlight race gloves.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
There are lots of colors to chose from... and in Matt's honor this promo code is good for a buy 2, get 1 free.
The code is: LAVUELTA
It expires Friday.
---
162.4 2
PushUps/PullUps
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4256822751
CROSS TRAINING FOR DUMMIES
Oct 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'VE SAID IT BEFORE AND I'LL SAY IT AGAIN, I may not be as smart as I look but I'm still pretty dern smart. How smart? Well, take crosstraining for example...
... you know what crosstraining is?
Crosstraining is anything you do that is different from your normal training. Lots of sports use cycling as crosstraining... in fact, nearly all injured athletes use "the bike" for recovery and returning to normal functions.
Which begs the question... why do we riders of the two wheels do any other sports at all?
Because all the smart people say we should crosstrain. Fact is cycling is very repetitive and very limited in range of motion. There is a long list of crosstraining that we can bring into our world.
Myself, being a dummy, I'll keep it simple. All noncycling activity is good. Side to side activities are better. Upper body and core work a huuuuuuge bonus.
Have at it.
Another benefit is to bring newness and freshness back into a potentially stale regimen...
... which is what I did tonight, even though it was stupid hard.
But, since this is for dummies and because it is simple I'll share it. Extra credit because it highlights my low IQ.
I raced home to get on my road bike for the last Market Ride of the year.
Kitted up.
Prepped bike.
Filled bottles.
Grabbed shoes...
... realized new road shoe cleats where in van, which is at dealer for service...
... never one to bail, slipped on the mtb shoes, pumped up the tires on the gravel bike to a million and off I went.
To make it extra silly, I chased Matt up a local, heinous climb... which sounds a lot like heinous crime, which is what it was.
Sur, that was it and we would barely make the start I suggested we head on over, but noooooo he wanted to bag one more of these beauts.
Yes, that is a very notsosmart warm up to one of the snappiest road rides in town: bagging climbs, showing up on gravel bike.
But, that's crosstraining for dummies like me... just grab an inappropriate bike and pedal like helk...
... and I definitely pedaled like helk, so much so...
... that I snagged some PRs on those climbs...
... which proves to this dummy, even though that gravel bike is 5lbs heavier, with giant tires...
- getting proper sleep - I've had a ton lately
- losing some LBs
- taking some time off
- having a dern nice gravel bike
... can make crosstraing the dummy way really fun.
And, it really is all about fun.
Fun facts:
- 9 out of 10 cyclists will drive to a ride or race at least once a month.
- Less than 10% of those 9 have a good strategy for changing clothes
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
This is the very best way to change your clothes, wipe off your body, and quickclean your bike - in that order - after a thrilling outing with your posse.
The good news is, we have some in stock and they make great gifts for those friends who really should keep certain body parts out of public view.
Use promo code: XTRAIN
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
162.4
stretch
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4252620339
KNOW SWEAT.
Oct 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WHEN I PULLED MY GLASSES FROM THE CLUNKY OAKLEY CASE I WAS QUITE SURPRISED. I expected them to be covered in dust and have the usual sweat streaks...
... why's that?
Well, it was a gravel ride.
Seems like I rode pretty hard.
Rarely, if ever, do I clean my glasses after a ride.
... but, there wasn't any dust or dried sweat drops covering parts of the lens.
It was then that my vision faded to black and white and things began to spin while I was transported back 48 hours.
There was a young and innocent, plucky Diesel floating through the countryside. Smiling and wishing all well. Birds were singing. Fall leaves floating. Heart rate was a steady thump.
The flashback ended... was I losing my mind?
I looked again at the glasses. Held them up to the light to be sure... clean as can be.
Maybe I'd cleaned them after all? I'd know soon enough.
There are two ways to leave my neighborhood. Up and then up. Down and then up. There is no flat option.
Choosing down and then up I was certain I'd feel some painful residue from the 5 hour ride where I ran out of energy.
Nope.
Following it up with an 8 minute climb, certainly there'd be a tinge or twinge?
Nada.
Taking advantage of prevailing winds and going for a PR on 2 mile segment was the final test.
Zilch.
I should have gone with my original assessment... no sweat on the lens, means no pain in the legs.
Pailful admission here... I felt a moment of pride as I snagged a KOM, even though I knew it was wind aided. Sometimes ya just gotta break you're own rules every now and again.
Don't fret... I still believe this to my core... PRs, going for our personal best, is by far the better race to win than a KOM.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-ts
So much so that today and tomorrow, or while supplies last, you can get 2 of these shirts for the price of 1 when you use...
promo code: KNOWSWEAT
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/kom-ts
---
163.4
push ups/pull ups
8.3 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4246450542
HAHAHA... I MADE IT TO THE TOP
Oct 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
HE'S PROBABLY THE BEST ATHLETE I'VE EVER COMPETED AGAINST. He taught me to play tennis, and a lot about winning and losing. More than once he claimed I'd never beat him until he was a hundred years old. He's getting very close...
... and I'd give anything to hit the ball with him again.
At lunch today, I asked him what would be the first thing he does when he gets to heaven.
I'll look at them all and say Ha Ha Ha, I made to the top!
Who?
All the guys who told me to go to hell.
Why?
'Cause I beat 'em all the time.
We all laughed, and I felt for those guys.
I was one of them.
Even though I was pretty good at one point on the court and he had to be 50ish, I could barely get a game off him. Never a set.
Once I asked him why he took up tennis. He wasn't super tall. He was blue collar all the way. He'd come to this country as a boy..
... and struggled and fought to fit in, to make something of his life, to persist and work really, really hard...
Because I was so gawdawful the first time... I'd always been a good athlete and here was this sport where I was terrible... and I wanted to practice and beat those guys. And I knew I could out work and out hustle all of them.
Of all the lessons he taught me it was that one. Hustle and hardwork can make up for a lot of deficiencies.
Sitting here after a nice day visiting, I realize his impact is maybe greater than I imagine.
After all, I am now 50ish myself, and though it's not tennis, I am still doing my best to out hustle and out work my young friends.
I hope we each make it to the top.
Speaking of making it to the top, the best to get to the top a long climb is to be properly fueled by a drink like this.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/3-2-1-hydration-base
One of the key ingredients is BCAA - branch chain amino acids. Those little guys are the proteins that take care of our muskulls when we're abusing them.
This is truly an amazing product, much more than simple electrolytes and sugar.
And we ship it fer free.
And if you're a member of the PEDALposse you can save big.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-monthly-subscription
---
161.4
stretch
8 hrs
no ride
THERAPEUTICS AND OTHER OFFSEASON SHTUFF
Oct 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IF YOU'RE COMPETITIVE, AND WE ARE!, IT'S NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO TAKE TIME OFF. Which is why you should see Dr. Diesel for a Therapeutic Use Exemption. It's really the only way...
... he handed me the scribbled Rx.
I tried to read it, squinting.
What's the matter?
Can't read it.
You need glasses?
Nope.
Give it to me... uh, oh...
- Do nothing.
- If you have to do something, make it different.
- If you must ride, have no plan.
Do nothing?
Nada.
Make it different?
Yes. Walk. Hike. Run, if you must. Swim. Surf. Lift some weight... your arms are disgusting!
Have no plan... what about my friends, we all ride together.
Friends!... I thought you were serious. You shouldn't have friends if you're a committed athlete. Dump your friends. Find some nerds, play D&D. It'll give you something other than gear rations to bore you family with. Got it?!
I guess.
Good. Take this. Pay your bill on the way out. Go to the drugstore and buy some ice cream. You need it.
He came highly recommended, so I tried it this week.
No ride Wednesday.
Paddleboard Thursday.
Stupideasy ride to the lookout for navel contemplation Friday.
Slept in until 9 this morning. A miracle. Rolled out for a noplan ride, just water in my bottles.
30 minutes in, on my way to nowhere.
90 minutes later, I had a popcicle in one hand and a Coke in the other.
2 hours later, I completely bonked... had to pull over a mile from home and get a drink and a chocolate chip croissant.
I think the doc would approve of all except the bonking. Very rookie. He has warned me before about bonking. How it can take weeks to recover from that... which is why he prescribes GQ6.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/3-2-1-hydration-base
One of the key ingredients is BCAA - branch chain amino acids. Those little guys are the proteins that take care of our muskulls when we're abusing them.
This is truly an amazing product, much more than simple electrolytes and sugar.
And we ship it fer free.
And if you're a member of the PEDALposse you can save big.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-monthly-subscription
---
162.4 too much cake last night
stretch
8.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4239117492
YOU CAN STAND ME UP AT THE GATES OF HELL
Oct 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AS THE GREAT TOM PETTY TOLD IT, I won't back down... You can stand me up at the gates of hell, but I won't back down. Yep, that song makes The Old Diesel's race pump mix...
... never was it more hellacious than last Saturday's Cactus Cup.
The Ol' Wahoo read 107.
That was only part of the reason we got whacked as a collective group. Not even the main reason. It might have been inevitable, but the following reasons did not help.
- Course knowledge. The course wasn't technical, but there were hundreds of turns where seconds could be lost. 300 turns X 2 seconds = 10 minutes. That's extremely hard to make up.
- Terrain prep. There are no big climbs, and, therefore, no long descents to rest. We aren't used to that... races around here have 5,10, 20+ minutes climbs. It's a different kind of effort and it hurt in an unaccustomed way.
- Kitty litter on concrete is how the locals describe the surface of sand and decomposed granite. We are use to dry, slippery conditions out here... if you're coming from afar, beware.
Yeah, we are looking forward to returning in March better prepared.
But, the big, big, big question is...
... would you, my finefastfriend, dig it if I put together a video on how to attack this race or any other race?
Course and terrain insights, bike set up, lines to take, food strategies, crew tips, etc.
I put this way down here at the bottom because I really want to hear from the true racers.
That's you right?
If it is then at some point you'll be looking for a truly fine racing machine. I can tell you right now, my BMC 4 Stroke is by far that best XC bike I've ever ridden or raced... but, why when you probably already know that same bike took 1st and 3rd at World's a few days back.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles
Sure it looks tame here... because you can't see the proprietary hiddendropper post, can't appreciate the perfect head angle, can't feel the whippiness of the stiff and light frame.
Which is why I included this pic.
I'm going about 20 miles per hour, totally confident, not caring at all about that babyhead my front tire is squashing, 1 finger on each brake lever, saddle dropped, just lettin' it blast right through the gates of hell.
You may be asking yourself...
Damn that bike looks awesome I wonder if PEDALindustries is carrying all the BMC bikes?
And the answer is Hellyeah!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles
Let me know what you're looking for and I'll let you know price and availability.
PS... ya really oughta join the PEDALposse first: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-monthly-subscription
---
160.8 lbs
PushUps and PullUps
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4233275312
... still reading? It's Saturday, get out and ride! : )
WHEN EVENING FALLS SO HARD
Oct 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WE TURNED AROUND EARLY TONIGHT. We're running outta daylight. And it's gonna get worse. There are 2 strategies I have employed over the years.
One, move all the rides to sunrise.
Two, get some serious lights going.
But, maybe it's time for a 3rd gear?...
... and it goes right along with the 5 hour work day...
Get my sprinter buns to work early... burn like a fiend for 5 hours. Take a two-wheeled break.
The other advantage to gear number 3 is I can skip the chill of riding sans sun. No rolling out into a dense, 40 degree fog. No riding into night as it gets colder and colder.
On 3rd thought...
... it's harsher conditions that make me feel most alive. It takes serious drive and desire to ride with rising and setting suns. Plus, it's electrifying knowing all the little Whos in Whoville are peacefully, comfortable asnooze and will soon be wondering Howtheheck did you and I get so much faster and fitter.
---
161.2 lbs
Paddleboard
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4231075069
IT WAS FUN WHILE IT LASTED
Oct 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF MY FAVORITE STORIES IS WHEN MY PAL KH CAME TO VISIT FOR A FEW WEEKS. At the time, he was in very fine shape. He was looking forward to unleashing his hard earned awesomeness on the locals...
... little did he know...
It's an overcast, balmy spring morning.
Which means California racing has been in full gallop for months... naive KH thinks his basement sessions have him ready.
We join the awesome and feared Coffee Crew.
At the time, this was the place where dragon slayers regularly hacked off the legs of all who dared take the front... naive KH thinks his basement sessions have him ready.
A maddening pace is set through town.
Some are shed, some are spared, all know the worst is yet to come... naive KH thinks his basement sessions have him ready.
We hit the base of Newport Coast.
The regulars know the pace will continue to increase all the way to the top until all the unworthy are skewered...
...naive KH thinks his basement sessions have him ready
AND HE TAKES OFF!
I'm stunned.
Impressed at his acceleration.
A decent gap is opened, and no one responds.
The gap holds for a minute or so.
Then starts to shrink.
We gain speed.
As he rockets by in reverse one of the greatest lines ever heckled cuts KH to the core...
It was fun while it lasted.
Delivered by any other person and blows might have been thrown. But, it was the loud, opinionated, lovable, old mother hen of the ride... the legendary Todd Schooler.
Todd may be gone, but that line lives on... many a time KH and I have laughed over that very moment and certainly dropped it on each other plenty.
And maybe that's why the group rides live on... because of the characters who dish it out not only with their legs but their unfiltered mouths as well.
Either way, I gotta do the rides to keep my sanity.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
And right now you can get this shirt 2 for 1.
Use promo code: WHILEITLASTED
Before Sunday.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
---
163.2 lbs
rest
7.7 hrs
no ride
AND I TOOK THE TRAILFORK
Oct 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT HAD BEEN 7 YEARS SINCE MY FIRST WHISKY 50. Trevor, my oldest, and I had rented Wenger's Sprinter and camped in this same spot - White Spar Campground. I woke up ready to explore vs race...
... Prescott AZ has miles and miles and miles and miles of pristine single track.
Whisky covers some good terrain, but at pace ya just never appreciate the beauty of a place.
Ranger Angelica chatted me up and then pointed in her favorite direction.
I had to ride 100 yards on pavement... then 5 amazing miles up, just me and my BMC. It kinda looked familiar but I couldn't be sure.
I stopped to take in the views. Nature in every direction. No landmarks. Not a soul.
This was a good time to reacquaint myself with the TrailForks app. What a terrific tool to have. I quickly oriented myself. Realized I was on the recently completed Prescott Circle - a 50 single track around the community.
But here's the thing...
Would I have been better off just adventuring with no local knowledge and limited supplies like olden days or playing it safe with the app?
Is it really exploring if we have an app or map?
... I think my pioneer ancestors would laugh at our manufactured adventures and challenges...
... at the same time, I think our adventures give us a glimpse of what their lives were like when reading, learning and hearing their stories.
One thing is for sure, we're all still wearing hats when the sun is on us.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/hats
Use promo code SAVE10
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/hats
---
? lbs
rest
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4221815656
CRASHING THE HARDTAIL PARTY, CHARGING MY CHRYSTALS AND ALIGNING MY CHAKRAS
Oct 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AS MY FRIEND HARDTAIL PUTS IT, Friends take advantage of friends.. And with that, we set out on a fantastical ride through some of Sedona's very choice 200 miles of single track...
... which is unlike nearly all other singletrack.
After 'bout 2 hours we'd gone a whopping 13ish miles and 1300ish feet of vert. We were smoked.
Why?
Wellllll...
The trails are tight and twisty and technical.
Rarely coasting, rarely relaxing.
Attention demanding...
... you'd think exhausting, but that's not really it.
Mentally, this kind of riding if very refreshing, Like racing, there's no chance of daydreaming. But, it's not racing. It's challenging and playful.
While my fully was soaking up the rough stuff, Hardtail was ripping some hard trails... jumping on, over and down everything... I knew not to follow too closely when he said he purposely takes the hard line.
Now... if you're into the stoke of riding a hardtail, if you're thinking of purchasing a hardtail... ya gotta check out his YouTube channel for the hardcore hardtail downlow.
https://www.youtube.com/c/hardtailparty/videos
We're just building out a product line for him... hardtail specific RaceDay Bags™, ponchos, jerseys, gloves, socks, etc.
Use promo code: HARDTAILPARTY
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hardtail-party
---
no scale lbs
Stretch and Roll
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4218063594
EVEN RACE PROMOTERS NEED HUGS
Oct 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT WASN'T UNTIL I PROMOTED A FEW RACES MYSELF until I really understood all the behind the scenes effort that goes into a race. Here's how to tell if a race promoter is making any money...
... if you come away with a bad taste, and a million ways to improve it...
... the promoter is probably making out like a bandit.
But, if you come away thinking...
Shucks, I had a blast and anybody could do that and make a fat living...
... well, that is exactly the promoter who is working night and day to make sure you and me have a blast on said day. There are sleepless nights, countless hours of prep and worry and concern. Umpteen fruitless sponsor meetings. Spouses and friends that are tapped to pitch in with major - and I mean major - volunteer hours.
If by some miracle these saints who dedicate so much of their time, talents and energy manage to get some momentum and actually make a nickel or two...
... well, bygolly, give 'em hug and a hallelujah because they sure as heaven deserve it.
Such were my feelings after a wonder outing at the Cactus Cup, because I sureashelk had a wonderful time.
Can ya imagine doing all that then having Covid cut your registration by 75%?
So, if you're lucky enough to do a terrific event this year... track that promoter down, give 'em a hug and a thanks and get the word out...
... Helluva race at ____________!
And, if you're looking for a way to support these fine peeps.. then get one of the very fine RaceDay Bags™ or other gear we made for them.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/cactus-cup
See ya there next March!
---
161 lbs
Matt's Boots again
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4212781213
I LIKE THESE RESULTS
Oct 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE FINISH LINE COULDN'T COME SOON ENOUGH.... nah, the finish was never coming. The cramps started just after I missed a crucial turn, which happened just after I got snapped off the back, which happened a little too quickly after the start.
Now lest you think this is some pathetic woe is me post...
... it ain't.
First, it's good to get whacked... and boy did the locals whack me. From elbows out at the start to turning the screws as the heat beat me down while seemingly making them go faster.
Second, it's great to be involved in an activity that requires I maximize my health... gotta take the very best of care of me to have fun.
Third, I'm here with my pals. Some I've just met. And we just spent the afternoon on the porch talking about nothing.
Yeah, these are the results I'm looking for... inspiration, max health and fine friends.
Of course I wasn't thinking about any of this during the final miles.
All I could think about was the ice cold CocaCola in the van. It was going to be so cold. So wonderful. The smooth bubbly sugary formula kept secret for centuries was drawing me in like a moth to light...
... even passed a few on the way in...
... that's how much that Coke was pulling me.
Can a Coke even be properly appreciated without feelin' the burn?
Questions like this can only be answered by us... me and you. And, if you were here I'd a had a bottle for ya to join me like the rest of the fellas.
Cheers!
Since you aren't here, how about a deal on water bottles?
Use SAVE10
---
? lbs
Matt's Boots again
terrible sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4208089324
SEARCHING FOR MY INNER SUPERHERO
Oct 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE WAS A BIT OF RIBBING WHEN THE FELLAS SAW MY BATMAN PJS. But, I'm used to it. We all are. We're riding around in what many consider undies...
... am I right?
... are they right?
As the Batman says:
It's not who I am underneath, but what I do that defines me.
We're lunching now and the nervous energy is eatable... heavily seasoned with trash talk. Yummmmmm...
I'm first to go off on the TT.
The almighty WeatherChannel says it'll be 99.
I haven't told the fellas that I purchased a couple of bags of peas to wear under my jersey while I warm up. I think staying cool until the last second is going to be key. Sneaky of me, I know.
I'm not planning to take a bottle. It's a 20ish minute effort with a million (literally) turns and undulations.
Matt asks what I'm doing...
Writing the blog so I can get to bed early.
What happens if you don't write it?
pause...
I'll die... my life is a Twilight Zone.
Time to throw on the number plate... as y'all know, that's when the shizgetz real. Nice, unflappable ToddyB becomes...
... The Old Diesel...
... I should be really rolling about 20 minutes into this thing.
In the meantime, I'll be selling the fellas hard on a solid 1 hour warm up... on rollers in my van with door shut so it feels cool when they get out. I need every advantage I can get.
... oh man, I forgot how hard TTs are.
I am pretty happy with my run.
Caught my minute man about 15 minutes in... took longer than I'd have liked for him to pull over. I struck my pedal on a rock on the only real climb. So... I figure I lost about 20 seconds between the dude and the rock. But, that's racing. Everybody probably had something.
I most pleased with staying well within my limits. I should feel really good tomorrow.
As far as the race between the fellas... we are all within a minute, in order of our age. Tomorrow's gonna be fun.
Now for some steak for me...
... and maybe some of the good stuff for you if you'll be riding in the heat any time soon.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/when-its-hot
Tomorrow, since it will be a very difficult course to eat on I'll get all my calories via my drink. 3 scoops per bottle.
And, to combat any heat induced cramps I'll be letting the chewable saltstick chew melt under my tongue... I carry them in a special case which you'll get with your purchase.
You'll get 50% off the second item with this promo code: HOTINHERE
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/when-its-hot
---
? lbs
Matt's Boots
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4204190806
THAT THAT THAT. THAT DON'T KILL ME
Oct 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AT SOME POINT I'VE GOT DECIDE IF THIS IS A BIKCATION OR A RACECATION. Now, if I was traveling by myself I'd drive a little longer for some better food... but, I'll be dawgawned if I didn't find my two hands with a firm grip on a Big Mac at 12 Noon in the middle of the Arizona desert...
... for the first time since snagging a podium at SLR. 18 months ago.
Then it was a matter of reward, along with the McFlurry, for pulling off something I'd failed at 4 years in a row.
Today, well, it was just going with flow.
Is it going to make a difference over 3 days of racing? Doubtful.
But, it is just a funny thing how the more people we add to the trip the longer we take and the collectively dumber we get.
It took us about 4 hours to get out of Sprout's tonight. We were only getting food for tomorrow. We have enough to survive a few years.
By myself I'd be more nimble.
Precise.
Quick.
But, ya know what... I'd be by myself...
Not getting turned around while preriding the course when we arrived.
Not cramming 7 of us around a 5 person table for dinner.
Not RoShamBowing for the master bedroom.
Not laughing at nonsense.
... not answering questions like this:
Are you a singer or mantra guy?
Huh?
Do you sing songs when you race or have a mantra?
Songs for sure... like Kanye's Stronger...
Which I immediately cranked to 10, knowing he hates rap.
Yeah, it's a bikcation for sure... and when McD's is on the menu, and we dilly and dally for hours I just gotta remember...
That that that that don't kill me only makes me stronger.
Maybe I am a mantra guy after all?
For sure, I'm a PR Lotion guy.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/amp-pr-lotion
Yes, over the next 3 days I'll be doing multiple applications. Even for tomorrow's 20ish minute TT...
... 'cause let's be honest the bragging rights each night are what it's all about.
Order now, the shipping is free but the bragging rights ya gotta earn... even on a bikcation.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/amp-pr-lotion
---
161 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4200542505
BISKY RUSINESS
Oct 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOME RISKS I'M WILLING TO TAKE, others I'm not. We're all that way, and I'm sure we're all completely justified for our ways of thinking. That said, we are on bicycles, traveling at a good clip... and, well... sometimes I get to wondering...
... Whattheheck are ya thinking!
Is it just me?
Here are the opposite ends of the spectrum:
New superbike <---> Old bucket a bolts
Riding a pristine paved road with no one around <---> Charging down a mountain
Somewhere in there we all demonstrate our risk tolerance.
Me personally,
I'd slowly ride a rusted out bucket of bolts down the boardwalk on a sunny summer day with an easy breez, no prob... but, I'd never trust it with my life.
I'd charge trails that would be tough to walk down or up, and tuck a nice paved road at 50mph on a new superbike... and love it.
But, those cats who throw down a few Benjamins on a Walmart whip or a Craigslist cringer then head out and go Full Send...
... oh man, you've got my attention... not sure about my respect... but my attention for sure...
... and I'll probably speak up,
get shut down
and uncomfortably settle in
like some creepy voyeur...
... wonderin' how they approach the rest of their lives.
But that's not how we roll, right?
Nope, we take some risks for sure... but we leave nothing to chance.
Especially not our helmets.
Good news is, right now, during the Giro, you can get these beautiful helmets with some sweet savings.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
The code is SUPERSTITIOUS.
It can be used on any helmet to save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
161.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4194433376
WARRIORS AND ADVENTURE
Oct 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DON'T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT. I'm totally biased, plus I'm ripping all kinds of PRs the more I get settled in. And, don't believe the marketing hype. Just look at the scoreboard.
But, before you look at the scoreboard...
... let's remember one thing when it comes to mountain biking...
... ADVENTURE.
Yes, yes, I love my road riding. And, of course, the freedom and creativity of gravel bikes. But, nothing makes me feel like a warrior out for adventure than my mountain bike.
Riding off into the wild where bad things can happen and nobody is around to bail ya out has a certain, how do you say... Imabadass... about it.
We sense that from the moment we put on our shoes which are heavy, and lugged, and dusty, and scraped up.
Personally, I'm not too big on protective gear and I've got plenty of dents and scars to show for it. Fact is, I kinda like seeing a little blood from time to time. Makes me feel alive.
Dropping down a rutted shoot with the front wheel about to break loose and the rear wheel skidding and clinging... launching off a knob at speed and flying 10'... leaning to nearly horizontal riding a berm in a turn... these are sensations only mountain bikers know.
Which brings me back to that scoreboard... ya see, that bike I've been ripping PRs on downhill sections is the very same bike that was ridden to a World Championship over the weekend... and Jordan Sarrou made it look easy.
Easy and in control are the exact feelings I've been having on this bike. The geometry is perfect. The bottom bracket height is just right. The dropper post is excellent. The twin-loc makes climbing a dream... ahhh, such a great bike.
The kind of bike that you want to take on adventure, be a warrior on, experience nature and all her many ways trying to kill you.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/bikeshop-fourstroke-01-one
This is the one I chose.
And I'd love to help you get one if you're into adventure and danger.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/bikeshop-fourstroke-01-one
Oh... and I almost forgot to mention... our superlight race gloves were developed expressly for this type of riding. They fit tight, are made of real leather, and provide a fantastic tactical connection between warrior and bike.
I had no idea the white gloves would be top sellers.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves/products/superlight-race-gloves-white
---
161.4 lbs
PushUPsPullUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4190343937
RACER ENEMY #2
Oct 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TOWARDS THE END OF MY RIDE SATURDAY, I came down an extremely steep trail... it's just at the edge of being a controlled skid - that kinda steep... and turned sharply to cross through the motorcycle barrier. At the same time, another rider came from an alternate trail and rather than dismounting rode right through the open gate.
There, my friends, is a perfect example of enemy number two.
Habits.
I've approached that barrier hundreds of time, and the gate is never open. Naturally, I went with what I've burned into my brain as the only way out... and it was completely the wrong thing to do when I could have easily stayed on my bike.
And the thing about habits is their effect is slow moving...
... towards greatness or damn that was dumb.
Chris, The Wrench, has a wonderful habit. Before he can start on the next bike, he has to put all his tools away. Guess what?... he never wonders where his tools are.
I have a habit of getting everything ready the night before my morning ride: clothes out, glasses cleaned, batteries charged, bottles made, etc.
Some riders have the habit of looking at all the dangers a particular route may encompass. My experience with these types of riders is they seem to will disaster into their lives.
Other riders have a habit of eating huge meals and late o'clock. Result: disrupted sleep and extra ballast.
The thing about habits is they become automatic. And we don't even realize how they've molded us... but sometimes it's towards really good outcomes.
Of course, one of our greatest habits is riding our bikes. If you've got a friend that needs a reminder about this habit...
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
Or maybe it's no one in particular, but you just like preaching this wonderful message of getting out and riding.
Whatever it is, this is a superduper soft shirt... made for athletes like us.
Use promo code: RIDEYOURBIKE
The code works on all the tshirts... but this one is the top seller.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
---
160.2 lbs
PushUPsPullUps
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4185622613
REST UP.
Oct 11, 2020
by TODD BROWN
NOT EVERYBODY KNOWS THIS, or remembers to do it... or has the luxury of following this restful recipe. It's a good practice for the day before a race.
If you're standing, sit.
If you're sitting, lie.
If you're lying, put your feed up.
If you're feet are up, sleep.
Most of the time we are hustling to take care of business or chores or family, and hoping all goes according to plan and we can cut out for a race in the morning. If we're lucky, we'll get to bed early.
Tuck that little missive away until your next big race.
Better yet, try it out before your next big ride.
It's harder than you think, and better than you think.
Promise.
I also promise having a RaceDay Bag™ will make your day that much more restful.
This would be a great place to insert what a wonderful gift the bag makes, but then I remembered racer Ryan's purchase this week...
I need another bag.
You do?
Yep, I want one for MTB and one for Road. I'm going to have them each loaded and ready to go.
It still makes a wonderful gift, and let's be honest, nobody appreciates a good bag more than us.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-bags
You know, we never to promo codes for the bags. But if you search really hard there's one out there.
I'm going to hide it right here in this lengthy paragraph. Normally, I'd put it in bold. But, that would make it too easy. The code, if you were to search for it, is SAVE10. It's an old code. It works today. But, I think it's time to retire it. Use it while it works.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/raceday-bags
---
161.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
8.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4183616323
PRE-RACE RITUALS
Oct 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SUPERSTITION AND PREPARATION. Today I did one of my pre-race rituals, it's the kind of thing I can't convince anybody to do with me...
... so it makes me question is it superstition or preparation?
What I do is go out and ride a course as similar as possible to the upcoming race and only work on my head.
In this case, the upcoming race is the Cactus Cup. An MTB race. In the desert. With a lot of turns. Carrying speed is going to be critical.
So, I went and rode some of the twistiest trails around.
Didn't pound the climbs too much, just rode 'em at tempo. But those downhills were all about being relaxed and going fast.
Results: I'm getting super confident on the new MTB and snagged a number of PRs on challenging descents I've hit many times.
This is headwork, giving myself sensations of feeling fast.
I'll do that all week. Not ride hard per se. Just doing things that are confidence building...
... and all of it will be on my race bike...
... to further cement the good feelings and be hyper aware of any mechanical issues that need to be take care of.
I know other racer will ride hard right up to the end. Others will take a bunch of time off.
Are we all preparing?
All superstitious?
Probably a little of both.
And I'm cool with that, because in the end it's just a bike race... and more than half the fun is figuring out what works.
One thing that works for sure is the KASK Protone helmet.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets/products/kask-protone?variant=33302071869572
I really like this helmet. It's light. Fits great. Has good ventilation.
And since it's Italian and the Giro is going on as I write this... well, there's a special promo code to save 20%.
The code is SUPERSTITIOUS.
It can be used on any helmet.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
160.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4177477050
$HOOTING THE $HNITZEL
Oct 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I STOPPED BY TO SEE MY PAL CHAD TODAY. At his place of biz. It'd been too long. We met through the bikeridingthing... way before PEDALindustries. We started making his company uniforms. Which we still do.
But, that's not important.
Nor was delivering a new supersweet kit design for this weekend's race.
What was important, was what happened when we got to his office and closed the door.
Nothing.
Nothing but bike and racing talk.
I think about all the companies that sponsor teams, at all levels... and I reckon few people have any clue as to why they do it.
Is it to get a big return on their advertisement investment?
Absolutely not... if that were the case the sponsors would stick around forever. Trust me, I know a thing or three about advertising.
They do it because they love the sport and it's fun.
Amid all the chaos and stress of running any large business, sponsoring any kind of cycling team can bring some needed levity into the work place. Can be part of a company health initiative. Can be a way for the work crew to bond after hours.
But, it ain't for the money.
And what do most sponsors ask for... usually just that the racers are good peeps.
I've worked with a lot of sponsors of teams. And none of them have ever said this, but I see it.
I see their enthusiasm for the racers, for the promoters, for the friends and families who come and watch.
I see the joy they have designing their kits for their teams to wear.
This is why they do it.
For the love of our sport...
... so, next time ya get a new kit send 'em some pics of you having fun riding. I know they'll love it.
I know I do.
Ya know what else I know?... I know our Speed jersey is super light. People come in and choose their size always comment...
... It's so lite.
Well, it has to be. It's a Speed jersey, not a parachute.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/jerseys
They come in a variety of colors, and we have matching socks for most of the designs.
Add a jersey and socks to your order and use promo code: SPONSORS
to get free socks.
---
161.2 lbs
Rest
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072
RACER ENEMY #1
Oct 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
LIKE IT OR NOT, WE'VE ALL GOT ENEMIES. And, that's okay. Because enemies can bring out the best in us. Therefore, I present the first in a long list of Racer Enemies and the potential for greatness each holds.
First up, the first up... it's a gift, really.
We get it when we're born, and it can be a real hinderance to going fast. However, once we get control of this enemy everything in life improves.
You guessed it, right?... our very own body.
Neglected, this wonderful treasure becomes sluggish at best.
No amount of unobtanium parts of a bike can make up for the neglected goods inside our birthday suits.
On that note, I put on weight with each one of my wife's pregnancies. Yep, a full 33 lbs heavier than I am today.
Little by little I carved it off.
Along the way, I learned what my body craves for maximum health. It doesn't just show on the bike. It's off the bike as well.
Overall energy high
All health indicators high
Mental clarity better
Mood swings minimized
and so on.
The point is to put in place a system for optimal health and patiently stick with it. The result, and it takes time!, we get a lot faster on the bikes and a lot better in every other endeavor.
I've been thinking about this because lately my friends have been casually slipping their weight into our conversations. You know, real slylike...
Dude, I'm down 12 lbs!
... subtle right?
They're stoked. And they should be. It feels really, really, really good to be light.
Speaking of kids... the best thing my son every told me when we trying to have better diets was this...
... we're not dieting, we're athletes...
Try that one on the next person that chides your food choices...
... I'm not dieting, I'm an athlete.
It works surprising wonders. Because we are athletes... we are designed to run long distances for long periods of time. We are hunters by nature.
When racing, like I will be next week, there are only 3 things I put into my body.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
GQ6 hydration for sure.
Because the course is going to be fast with constant turns and short power climbs through the desert, I'll probably only be able to drink.
Which means I'll go with 3 scoops/bottle.
I might not even go with bottles. It's going to be that fast. I might go with the Camelbak. It's just a lot easier to grab that hose and suck in some good stuff and let the hose fall from my mouth.
I reckon I'll thrown 1 Honeystinger in my pocket just in case I get that empty hungry feeling... but, I doubt that's going to happen.
It's unlikely I'll need the SaltStick. It's only 40 miles and should be over in 2.5 hrs.
Since it's always good to be prepared, I'll bring all three potions.
If you're so inclined use promo code: NUMBER1
It's a buy 2, get 1 dealio
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
---
161.2 lbs
StandUpPaddle for an hour
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072
I GOT A LUST FOR DIRT
Oct 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TONIGHT SO FUH-FUH-FUH FUN! Jake joined for the standing DRTY WDNSDY hot up the trails. One thing ya gotta know about Jake is his company, NON-DOT, specializes in teaching people MTB skills. He ain't just fast, he's skilled. Just the kinda guy ya wanna be chasin' around...
... because he brings out the best.
Smooth lines.
Hitting the jumps.
Cleaning all the technical stuff.
Making it look easy.
We picked up a ton of virtual trinkets along the way.
But, that wasn't the point or goal or focus or whatever.
The only whatever we had going on was chasing each other 'bout as fast as we could go up and down and around and over. Never really getting out of sight of one another... not that we weren't trying.
It was one of those rides.
Just really pushing. Not too much small talk. Riding too fast for that.
But not ruined afterwards.
And here's the thing... I don't think that style of chasing each other works on the road. It's something that really lends itself to tighttwisty single track with punchy climbs.
Yep... it leaves me lusting for more dirt.
'Course ma' new MTB don't hurt.
But, Jake said the new gloves to match his new kits we made were helping too.
What can I say?
I'm a helpful guy.
If you're looking for beautiful kits, made in the USA with the best Italian fabrics... gives us a ring.
Speaking of rings... Jake's was covered with this glove.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
He was also wearing these socks
Looking quite sharp is ya ask me.
If you want to look sharp like Jake, use promo code: LUSTFORDIRT
Which will give you 50% off your second item, buy gloves get socks for half off.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... oh, and you're always welcome to join us on DRTY WDNSDY.
---
163 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072
GET READY, CUZ HERE I
Oct 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WELL, IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE OFFSEASON... but there hasn't even been a season. We're sposed ta be restin', but ain't been racin'. And while the days are getting shorter, our ride is getting bigger and faster and funner...
... and I'm lovin' it.
To see the fellas and the ladies is such a joy.
This morning I could see 'em from farther away than last week. Their powerful blinky lights a warning to drivers and a beacon to riders. Follow me to fun...
30 or so Bs
18 As
4 Gravelers
... all taking over the school parking lot for a catchup moment of Hey what's ups?, How ya beens? with a few Damn bro, you're looking fits.
As the countdowns to heading out approach the energy changes, our choreographed dances of pedals and pain gets begins.
Now I'm writing this with the Temptations on repeat... that driving beat of Get Ready...
... we're getting ready for the day, our way.
A great big shot of endorphins to inoculate us for the trials that face us each day.
Join us, and bring a light.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/knog-lights
Personally, I run these day and night. Front and rear.
Use promo code: GETREADY
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/knog-lights
---
163 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4159358072
IT AIN'T OVER 'TILL YOU'RE OVER
Oct 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
FINISH LINES AND HILLTOPS, they're a lot further than you think. You can't see the top of a climb from the bottom. You can't judge the speed of your competition closing from behind in a sprint.
But, racers ease up at the apex of climbs and final meters of sprints all the time...
... and thus we see...
... them fail, when just a few more seconds of gawdawful pain woulda kept 'em attached to the group or on top of the podium.
I know, I know... ya feel like you're getting one over on the competition when you can get over the top and catch 'em on the way down... or thump your chest and coast across the finish line...
... we all know, which is exactly why we sprint hard over the top of the climbs and beyond the finish line...
... we're banking on you trying to get one over...
... sometimes it's the only way we can win.
So, we do a few more push ups at night,
eat a few bites less of ice cream,
stay late at work,
read to our children,
help the elderly cross the street...
... some of us need every advantage we can get to make up for the advantage you have...
... you can forget it ain't over 'till it's, in fact please do.
And you can also forget about PR Lotion... but we won't. In fact, some of us like Rusty are so nice we purchase it for our friends... which is exactly what he did when he stopped by today for a new pair of bibs.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup/products/amp-pr-lotion
Sometimes I wonder if we sell more Amp PR Lotion than anybody else? I should ask those guys sometimes. I wouldn't normally think that, but people like Rusty keep coming back for more... and picking up some for their friends.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubemeup/products/amp-pr-lotion
---
162.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4154603038
CHAOS VS CONTROL
Oct 04, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WATCHING LIEGE BASTON LIEGE THIS MORNING I had to say... Those roads are awful! Skinny, old and potholed.
Conversely, racers at yesterday's TT in Italy complained about the very same conditions.
Meanwhile, XC racers in The Czech Republic are racing on a course downhillers would struggle on a decade ago.
I'll say this...
... learning to race and ride in chaos gives ya a helluva lot more control.
Who are the greatest bike handlers? MTBrs and Sprinters.
Why?
Which comes first?
We all start with our godgivens, for sure... and riding in unpredictable situations, practicing on bad terrain, expecting to be challenged increases our ability to thrive where others struggle and fail.
Each skill we add is one more cog in our cassette.
Which is exactly why I enjoy riding this bike so much. I can work on group riding skills, dirt road skills, single track skills, curb jumping skills...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
... more of those proverbial cogs equals more options for control when the chaos hits.
If you're in the PEDALposse... message me for pricing.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
---
160.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8.3 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4152069307
BARRED FOR LIFE
Oct 03, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE WHOLE LIFE BEHIND BARS THING FOR CYCLISTS would be a lot funnier or more interesting or just a helluva a lot better if it made any sense. We aren't behind bars, we're grippin' 'em hard...
... or we should be.
Poor MiguelAngelLopez. There he was in the supertuck at the Giro today and hit something, completely losing control of his bike.
Straight to hospital.
Surgery.
Race over.
Such a shame, and in my opinyun, avoidable.
The problem with the supertuck... problem?... problems... the first problem is the bike becomes extremely unbalanced with a lot of weight placed on the front wheel. But, the bigger problem is it's not easy to get out of that position quickly should you need to jump a road hazard, change directions, etc.
Is it really why he crashed?... I don't know, hard to tell, but the picture I saw was pretty damning.
Speaking of bars, modern MTB bikes are coming with bars so wide you can't fit them though an average doorway.
That's wide.
Too wide.
Again, this is my very biased opinion and not scientific at all... hearmeout!
Of course, being an obedient consumer, most of us just roll with what we purchased never thinking to change it up.
I'm guilty.
But, this new bike's bars were cartoonishly wide.
So we chopped 'em down.
From 780mm to 700.
Apparently superwide is all the rage because it is more stable in the nasty stuff.
So, it wasn't easy to take out the ol' hacksaw and do some hacking. I mean it's only a $400 mistake if done incorrectly.
Anyway... we chopped 'em down yesterday.
Result?
Lot's of PRs on the fast and steep stuff today. Why?... well, those superwide bars just take a lot longer to get the wheel turned and require a much more exaggerated movement. The narrower bars are much more nimble.
How did we determine the width?
We did some eyeballing then I dropped and ripped of a few push ups at various widths.
Is that the only reason for the PRs?
No, I've been playing with shock pressures and tire pressures and I'm getting closer to being one with the rig and that very handy dropper post. Plus, I found a tire combination, that is light, that I reall like.
I think Barred For Life is a lot closer to what we are... if we're not holding the bars, we're thinking about it.
Maybe I'll make that a tshirt and give it to the PEDALposse next month.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
161 lbs
nap
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4147011952
I ENJOY A SPIRITED RIDE AS MUCH AS THE NEXT GIRL
Oct 02, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DO YA EVER FEEL RACEDAY IS LIKE THE START OF A BOND MOVIE? All action, no plan. Just winging it. Too many variables.
Bold colors.
Big music.
Danger.
But, somehow it's all gonna work in your favor.
Tomorrow isn't raceday, but we're gonna have a lot variables on our ride.
A bunch of us are meeting...
... some are doing the long, 80+, road loop
... some the shorter loop
... and a few of us - me - are starting on MTBs and peeling off to hit the single track.
Now why would I do a silly thing like that?
Well... I have the first, last and only MTB race of the year in 2 weeks and I'm a firm believer that the closer a race or big ride gets the more specific the training needs to be.
The race in question, The Cactus Cup, will be pretty flat. Longest climb about 45 seconds, and the rest of the time it will be all about carrying speed on the flats and rolling those corners really fast...
... I mean what could be better than steamrolling the coast with the PEDALposse on my MTB to get Onnatop of the podium?
Well... joining the PEDALposse, obviously.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
---
159.6 lbs
Stretch N Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4142073698
IN OUR LITTLE TOWN
Oct 01, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE VAN NEEDED NEW TIRES, so of course I'm gonna take it to Holley's Tire Service... because the owner is a bike rider. I walk in and Ron announces to the few patrons...
Pedal Industries, a fine establishment... though I'm not to sure about Todd!
Howdy Ron.
I've been sending all my friends down there, tell 'em we gotta support these guys... we finally have a nice shop and a good mechanic again.
Yes you have, and I truly appreciate that.
Todd, we're gonna resurrect the old group and I want you to do our kits. Our last kits were terrible, from Pearl Izumi.
Wow, I'm surprised to hear that.
Yeah, maybe the guys went low end.
Exactly why we don't offer a low end option.
The kits you did for the mountain bike team... I still have mine and they are great. The colors are still really bright.
Well we're ready when you are.
How can I help you today?
Van needs new rubber.
Go with the Firestone's. They're great and made in America... just like your kits.
Now, you see what he did there? He wasn't buttering me up... he was looking out for me because...
... friends don't let friends ride on junk.
When I road the gravel bike back to pick up the van Ron was gone. Sergio handed me the keys and looked in the eyes...
You bring that back every 5000 miles and we'll rotate the tires so they last a long time. Stop in whenever you need the air topped off.
Whenever possible I always go with the bike rider that offers what I need. I know they are going to look after me and get me product that endures.
Heck, that's how I got into this business. I was making apparel for large corporations and then started helping my friends in the bike business with their branded apparel.
Anyway, it's a good little town we have here... for a surf town, we have a lot of really good riders... because the surf is fickle and the bike is always ready...
... we have road rides nearly every day of the week and the town is surrounded by wildness in which the retired firemen have cut in all kinds of fun, challenging single track trails.
Which is where the stamp logo comes from...
... a little something about our tshirts. These aren't your itchy, boxy cheap giveaways.
Nope.
These shirts are made from a special cotton that gets softer and softer the more you wear it.
We use special inks that you can't even feel.
And, yes... we help a lot of teams and companies get these t's with their logos on them, too.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
I shouldn't even offer a special price on these. At $20, they're a steal. That's twenty bucks total, including shipping.
This code is good on all t's for exactly 1 day.
The code is: HOLLEY
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
---
161 lbs
Paddleboard
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4139743726
UNDERDOGS AND STONECUTTERS
Sep 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
APPARENTLY IT'S AN AMERICAN THING, to cheer the underdog, the little guy, the unknown. Maybe because we are all little guys, misfits in one way or another. At least for me it can feel that way much of the time.
But, we stick at it... whatever it is.
Perhaps that's why we're drawn to cycling, to racing and riding bikes. It's unlike other sports. I can quit surfing for months, paddle out and still have a blast. Same with ping pong. But bike riding... take off months and it's like we're pedaling through molasses.
At the same time, if we keep working at it... keep plugging away, steadily, our bodies change. We build new capillaries, lose weight, gain muscle... and have an affinity for pain others can't comprehend.
We know we're underdogs, with secret super powers in the making.
Look at a stone cutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred-and-first blow it will split in two, and I know it was not the last blow that did it, but all that had gone before.
- Jacob Riis
All this is making me thirsty... and I'm wondering if you're in need of some new bottles? Not just any bottles, but the best bottles.
A 2 pack, delivered to your door for less than $20 when you use promo code: UNDERDOG
---
162.4 lbs
PushUps and PullUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4135398854
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU WEAR STRETCHY PANTS?
Sep 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AT SOME POINT ON MOST RIDES someone says or does something that gets me thinking. And, that happened today. But, for the life of me i can't remember what it was.
Was it...
damn, my legs hurt?
how did you time meeting us?...
... actually yeah, that was it.
Someone at the regroup asked how I knew how to ride the gravel options through town and wind up right on the road just as the group was hitting the final climb.
Well?.... How did we get there?
The short answer is... Bro, 'been doing the same loop with these cats for 17 years.
But, the long answer... that's the juicy stuff.
First, we didn't time it perfectly. We rode our legs off and got there about 8 minutes early, then pedaled in circles for a bit.
Second, we woulda been there perfectly except we've only done the gravel option a handful of times and it had been about a year since the last go... and well, I played it conservative.
Third, we're gonna hit a bigger climb next week and have to really, really, really hustle to finish in time.
Because that's what you do when you are a rider and wear stretchy pants. You put yourself in unreasonable positions and see if you've got what it takes to...
... meet the group
... make it happen
... exceed expectations
... do hard shiz...
... it's doing hard shiz that brings out the best of us.
That there isn't the prettiest quote over, but it is what I wanted to convey.
On that note...
... when you're ripping down the side of a mountain on a rough road or trail, doing all you can to make it to the meet up on time or beat your nearest competitor the very last thing you want to have happen is to have your water bottle launched out of the cage.
Now, if that has happened to you then you know what I'm talking about.
You're tempted to leave the bottle behind but you know dern well you're gonna need those calories and electrolytes.
So you stop.
Lose all your momentum.
Hike back up... kinda like the walk of shame... as fellow racers scream by.
All because you have a cheap, crummy cage.
What we have here below is not cheap and not crummy.
It's EXtremely strong, veryvery lght, and expensive.
But, nowhere near as expensive as flushing all your effort of registering and training and traveling and racing ahead and then losing because your cage is for losers.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/mandible-bike-cage
That right there is pure beauty. Think of it as the ring on your betrothed and don't go cheap.
It's hella expensive to lose a bottle in a race.
We have 2 in stock, we can get more... but the promo code is only good now.
Promo code: STRETCHY
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/mandible-bike-cage
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
161.2 lbs
Stretch N Roll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4128586289
SIR MIXEDSURFACE-A-LOT
Sep 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M PROBABLY DOING THIS GRAVEL THING ALL WRONG. We don't have endless country roads all graded and perfect with a little gravel on top for weather. And, I like it that way...
... I like big ruts and I cannot lie...
Just to mixedsurface it up tomorrow I'll be starting the TMWC with the group and exiting stage right at the first dirt path we cross.
Then we'll cut across town on pavement - where we might see the guys again - before diving down to the dry creek bed, which hopefully will have a few wet crossings.
Followed by a touch of pavement before we climb up dusty dirt road with ruts through the wildness area.
Then zip through a neighborhood before poaching more dirt.
At that point, we'll really be back on the route and if all goes as planned we will slot right in with the rest o' the gang.
That's def not a gravel ride, but it's the freedom one gets on a gravel bike... which just might be why they're all the rage.
Speaking of all the rage, we got a bunch of new colors in our gloves... and I'm thinking the Orange is just perfect for Fall colors.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
If you have not tried our gloves before, well you might be missing out. They are superlight weight.
The top is BreezyMesh.
The palm is real leather.
The thumb is terrycloth.
The fingers have reactive thread for your smart phones.
And... they're $24.99 and qualify for FREE SHIPPING... or less if you're part of the PEDALposse - > https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162 lbs
Stretch N Roll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4125097202
from my lunch ride, on my gravel bike
WE'RE ALL DOCTORS, KINDA
Sep 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
RIDE LONG ENOUGH AND YOU'RE GONNA GET A FEW SCRAPES ALONG THE WAY. A little skin lost here, a good gash there. Hopefully, it's very rare. I've had a few and one offshoot is I'm an expert in healing abrasions...
... and I put that experience to good use this morning, and I reckon you'd do the same.
My mom, who is visiting for a bit, stubbed her big toe on a sharp edge and peeled the skin right off the bottom it. Blood all over the place.
I knew just what to do... the same thing I'd do if I left a little skin behind.
Soak it.
Flush it with Betadine.
Pour on some Hydrogen Peroxide.
Add a good layer of Neosporin.
Wrap with a proper bandaid.
I'll do this daily until it heals from the inside out.
It was kinda nice to put all my self-taught medical skills to work, paying back to the woman who patched me up plenty of times...
... in fact, this doesn't come close to the doctoring she's done on me.
You're probably wondering how am I going to turn this tale into a sale?
Well, due to the simple fact she's a certified lover of the red, white and blue it's pretty easy.
She loves this kit, too.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriot
Plus she's always been the most irritatingly organized person I know. So, in honor of her bravery this morning and her red, white and blueness and organizedness...
... when you order this kit and use this promo code: PATRIOT
You'll get a Classic Patriotic RaceDay™ Bag.
But, you've got to use the code by midnight 9/28/2020.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriot
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162 lbs
Stretch N Roll
8 hours sleep
no ride
DO YOU EVER DO THIS?
Sep 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TBH, WE WERE GOING TOO FAST TO SNAP A DECENT PIC THIS MORNING... and, well, I'm kinda embarrassed. Every now and again I'll do a ride invite, post it here and there, say all are welcome, then put in a little disclaimer like this...
While this is being touted as casual... it wont' be. No waiting, no lollygagging. Well over 5k of vert. Plan on 3.5-4hrs. Be prepared to find you're own way home.
For some reason, I was expecting 10-15 guys to show up and ride with us.
Nope.
4.
Was it something I said?
Mmmmmmaaaaaayybee
Now why would I go and say a think like Be prepared to find you're own way home?
Was it selfish?
Mmmmmmaaaaaayybee.
Was it mean?
Mmmmmmaaaaaayybee
Was it honest?
Yep.
Was it freeing?
Also, yep.
We got after it early and hard. And even though the Wahoo was in the back pocket I was prittydarnsure we were flying. Before long, 4 became 3.
I knew this was going to happen even though we'd done a pinky swear to takeiteasy. Which is why I had the disclaimer.
Now the very best thing about a disclaimer like that is..
nobody's gonna get rut hurt when they get dropped and left fer dead
nobody's gonna come ready to slay and be bummed waiting all day
Still... it woulda been fun to start out with more boys and girls, get strewn across the mountains and share a Coke after.
Is there anything more American than that?
Maybe this...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
It was designed by the everawesome Shelby a while back, and I like to rock it often. I have a hunch I'm not alone...
... so, if ya order before end of day on Monday the 28th, and you use...
promo code: PATRIOTIC
... then we're gonna throw in something special with your kit order and deliver the kits by the end of October.
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.4 lbs
Stretch n Roll
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4115909144
REALLY GERAINT?
Sep 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I LIKE TO READ THE CYCLING NEWS AS MUCH AS THE NEXT ADDICT, and when I saw Geraint Thomas blaming his fourth place finish on not having his Garmin on his bike... well, it got me thinking.
Is that so?
I mean, we just watched a kid blow the competition away in a time trial last weekend who said he wasn't getting any data from his team during the last 20 minutes because the crowd noise was too loud.
Isn't it possible G rode out of his mind because he didn't have his digital boss?
Then there's little ol' me... I've been snagging some pretty good PRs and bigboy cups on my new bikes with my Wahoo stuffed in my back pocket... 'cuz I been too busy to procure a proper mount.
Could it be we kneel and heal too much?
I know for the last couple of years I've tossed the Wahoo in the back pocket for most of my races. Going on feel and using my noggin and spirit as my guides. It's gone pretty dern well.
What if it's overwhelming us to look down and see the HR is soaring over 180 and the watts screaming beyond 400?
Truth is... sometimes it just makes it all hurt that much more. In the middle of all the wheezing and slobbering we look down see eyepopping data and just wanna quit.
Maybe G was free to fly?
We'll never know, but I do know this kit makes me happy because it reminds me of all the freedoms we enjoy in this wonderful country.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
It was designed by the everawesome Shelby a while back, and I like to rock it often. I have a hunch I'm not alone...
... so, if ya order before end of day on Monday the 28th, and you use...
promo code: PATRIOTIC
... then we're gonna throw in something special with your kit order.
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
161.4 lbs
Stretch n Roll
8.25 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4112319687
SMALL TALK.
Sep 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS ONE THING I LIKE ABOUT THE SMALL RING... TBH, I generally work my @$$ off every day. Up early getting my studies in, work all day, get in a ride of some sort, write this blog, hit the hay.
If it weren't for the small ring, I'm not sure I'd have any friends at all...
... because that's when I talk with my friends the most.
Could be anything.
Tonight I chatted with Mark about the Tour, Will about trying to ride easy then winding up in the break, Eric about Saturday's ride plans, Matt about his wife spending thousands at the shop, young Jack about how to ride in the group...
... and that's just what I can remember.
None of it's important, yet I think I'd die with out those conversations and friendships.
God bless the small ring.
Now back to that behind of mine...
... Craig came in today to try on some bibs before placing his team order. Like all first timers he had a lot of questions. Which I answered quite simply with...
... Try 'em on...
Which always leads to the next question...
... Why do these feel so nice?...
Which I always answer with...
... We work real hard on our fit and our pad placement, and we import the best Italian fabrics... but you're going to love 'em even more once you ride in 'em...
Which brings me back to the small ring...
... when you're just riding along with your pals and talking about nothing, ain't it great to have on a great fitting pair of bibs?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pro-bibs
I know our bib pics aren't typical, and I know we could do better telling our story online, and we would if we weren't spending every free moment making the best product we know how to make.
But, just look at the joy in this pic to get an idea of what I'm talking about.
And if you're buns are in need of something more awesome get yourself some new bibs.
Use promo code: SAVE10.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pro-bibs
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
6.8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
WHAT DOES DROPPED MEAN?
Sep 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE FIRST TIME I WAS DROPPED WAS THE WORST. It was like my soul had been ripped out. I wasn't out of breath, I was out of life. How would I ever get over the...
... heartache of being dropped by the lovely and beautiful Tracy, receiver of my first real kiss?
The second scarring drop was by the great Matt Ohran.
I was much more mature at this point, a college man. He was a young high school punk.
I was on my first road bike. He was on his third or fourth.
I was taller. He was...
... a helluvalot stronger and just road away from me up Provo canyon.
Funny thing is, getting dropped still stinketh. Still hurts...
... and that's what makes it so damn enjoyable.
Because it's soulsucking and humbling and occasionally even enraging it motivates the crud outta me. Makes me want to be a better athlete. Eat better. Rest better. I'd say love better, too... but this is a family show.
So, what does getting dropped mean?
It means I suck, and I can and will do better.
One thing that's good to have in your jersey pocket, in the event of being dropped miles from home is a few bucks.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
It's made outta innertube, which is surprisingly grippy on jersey fabric... meaning there is no way this is going to fall out of your jersey.
Less than $20, ships FREE.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
164.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
https://www.strava.com/activities/4104274848
ONE BIKE TO RULE THEM ALL?
Sep 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
OKAY, I FINALLY GET IT. I can see how one could easily purchase a top o' the line gravel bike and be set. I know I'm not exactly breaking new ground here... but I am for myself. And after today, I'm darn tempted to do it.
It was a pretty good test.
I rolled to our local group ride on my new gravel bike, with Pirelli 40s on it and 50lbs of pressure. This is a very nice bike, but it's 2 tiers down from the flagship bike. So, it could be lighter... a lot lighter if I had a second set of lightweight road wheels.
Anyway, I hung on pretty good except on the steepest, longest climb.
This is same set up that with 32lbs of pressure allows me to ride all the dirt roads and really enjoy good chunk of the single track.
It's definitely a Jackofalltrades bike, and a true master of fun.
Will I really cut the quiver down to 1 bike?
Nah.
But, it's a real option... and would make life pretty simple.
Speaking of keeping it simple, some people join the PEDALposse for that very reason.: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
164.2 lbs
Stretch n Roll
6.8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4097329990
DON'T GET DERAILLEURED, ROOKIE
Sep 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IS THERE A GOOFIER WORD, HARDER TO SPELL FOR A 'MERICANS THAN DERAILLEUR? How the heck has that word survived so long in its funked up french form? No matter. 'Cept that when I went to spell it today it reminded me of derailled rookie RaceDays.
Friends... there are things rookies do that ya just can't 'xplain. And we try and ignore 'em and pretend we never did 'em.
But we did.
Fer sher.
The one that just kills me is watching RookieRacer put in all that time training, spend all that coin on a nice rig, getting the team race clothes, traveling to the big race and it all goes kapoof because they didn't tend to prepping their bike.
"Suddenly" their bike...
won't shift
won't stop
has a flat
has a wobbly wheel
grips spin on the bars
saddle falls off
... oh, it's endless, and it could all be avoided with a simple RaceTune.
Of course many rookies know this but wait until the day before their race do the RaceTune only to find out...
the mechanic is too busy
the parts are out of stock
the work was done but no time to test it and find out it's still not fixed
... so sad, and avoidable.
Here's how to do it proper.
Get your RaceTune ten days before, including any new parts. That way you have time to test the mechanic's work, test the new parts, test the set up. Leave yourself time.
The day before the big race is when you'll do a little detail work. Make your bike pretty. Do the final lubing.
What's a RaceTune include?
Bike wash
Overall wear inspection - Brakes, tires, cables, etc
Drive train detail and lube - ultrasonic chain clean, pulleys and cassette degrease
Check bottom bracket
|Tubeless tire inspection/refill
Wheel truing
Brake and derailleur adjustments
Safety check – bolt tightening
In other words, your bike is going to be ready to slay the day!
What's it cost?
We charge $99.99, unless you're part of the PEDALposse.
Check it out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
164.2 lbs
PushUps and PullUps
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4093907049
RIDE AND TELL OF THE ANGELS
Sep 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE LAST TWO DAYS OF LAST WEEK WERE REMARKABLE. I've tried to pin down the difference, and I think it's this. I rode my bike to work. It's a short ride, no more than 15 minutes. But, I think it made all the difference.
Can't really explain it.
Or put into words.
All I can tell you is, it's wonderful to go for a quick spin before you dig in.
Even if you're working from home.
I'm not talking about a training ride.
I'm talking about a fun ride.
Maybe a little curb jumping. Some skidding. That kinda thing.
What does that have to do with racing?
Well... you know... happy workers are productive workers and productive workers have more time for racing...
... more proof that every day really is RaceDay™.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/every-day-is-raceday-trucker-curved-bill-adjustable-hat
Use promo code: RIDETOWORK..
... and save $10 on this hat... use before Wednesday.
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
163.8 lbs
StretchNRoll
8 hours sleep
rest day
THIS GIRL IS ON FIRE
Sep 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE FIRST TIME MATT BROGHT HIS GIRL ON ONE OF OUR RIDES, I was glad we weren't in a hurry. We went over to Laguna. Somehow the trail I suggested as kinda technical had turned a lot gnarlier than I remembered. Like all you could do was just skid and hope for the best or walk.
She walked.
A lot.
But, as they say, that was then and today was now.
6 months later.
Start with her leading us up the first climb. Well, I've gotten used to that. She's significantly faster now... with plenty of crowns to prove it.
Then, I suggest we try out a new trail. Matt said he rode it a long time ago and it's kinda steep. I'm stoked because I want to test out my new dropper post on my new bike.
The trail turns out to have a number of very steep drops with ruts down the middle that you either have to skid and hope or walk.
Guess who rode it like a boss?
Yeah, the girl... mom of 3, 4 if you include Matt.
A lot of people have taken up bike riding in the last 6 months, and they're a lot better through dedication and practice and keeping it fun. Most of it because someone in their life took the time to show them how to ride.
But, you ask... How does one ride sillysteep drops with ruts?
Well, it's really quite simple.
Relax, let the bike roll and stay focused on the ridable parts of the trail.
The body follows the head, the eyes lead the way.
Look were you want to go...
... and ride your bike often.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
It's always good advice.
And, I know if you're anything like me you're encouraging your family and friends to get out and ride. Get control of their health. Have a ton of dawgawn fun.
Less than $20, free shipping.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4084136566
SO LONG YOUNG FRIEND
Sep 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I TEND TO GET SENTIMENTAL ABOUT MY BICYCLES... they are like mistresses... after epic adventures, training miles, and the occasional win of some sort... awww, so hard to let go.
Take Sparky.
Purchased nigh 18 months ago for the single purpose of PRing Leadville.
Requirements:
Very, very light.
Kicka$$ handling to fly down the mountains.
Complete lock out for the long steady and sometimes paved climbs.
I wasn't taking any chances and after doing my research the Scott Spark was the top choice.
How light?
22ish lbs.
How good is the handling?
On the Powerline downhill I recorded the 2nd fastest time ever in my age group, and fastest time of 2019 in my age group.
On the Columbine downhill I recorded the 3rd fastest time ever in my age group on, fastest time of Leadville 2019 in my age group.
How important was that full lock out?
PR'd these climbs:
St. Kevins
Sugarloaf Outbound
Columbine
... and 47 seconds of my PR on Powerline (over 40 minutes long)
But I expected all that because I'd had a very similar result at the Tahoe 100 where I got the V.
So... when it came time to put Sparky up for sale today it wasn't easy. Such a fast, fast bike helped me accomplish my big goal of last year.
Yes, I trained hard. Yes, I dropped 10lbs. Yes, I did everything I could think of to get that PR...
... Yes, Sparky is fast and looking for a new home.
Along with these upgrades:
Power2Max powermeter
Roval CLX MTB wheels - ceramic bearings.
Gripshift
Carbon power saddle
Just replaced brake pads and grips
Size Large.
Price $4500.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/scott-spark-900-world-cup-2019
More photos here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/scott-spark-900-world-cup-2019
I didn't ride it much after Leadville... here's the Strava Link: https://www.strava.com/bikes/5713280
PEDALposse, hit me up for special pricing.
Oh, and that PR? Yeah, 8:15.
Still thinking about it?... here are the PRs: https://www.strava.com/activities/2608099538
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.2 lbs
StretchNRoll
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4079905432
AGING UP.
Sep 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
YOU KNOW WHY BIKE RACERS DON'T MIND GETTING OLDER? It's not that they generally look younger than their peers. Nor that they feel great. No, it's something only a bike racer understands...
... every 5 years we age up.
The first time a racer ages into the masters group and thinks Well, this will be easy...
... it's a big slap in the helmet, as the youngish master racers are so fast they generally kick the snot out the new kids aging in.
And after figuring out these cats are pretty fast, and finding one's way, well ya start to get the hang of things. Maybe get a couple of wins, Have some success. And as one gets to the upper end of the 5 year group and starts to slow a tad, well...
... Golly, I'm gonna be aging up next year! We say with a grin. I'll be sticking it to those old guys in no time.
And so the racer rides through life getting a reset every 5 years. It's a heckuva nice thing when ya think about it.
Anyway, this guy pops in who I figure is about my age. And we're chatting. He's seen our kits around town and saw the sign and wanted to get a kit. I'm thrilled, of course - we barely opened. I ask him how old he is, thinking maybe we'll do some riding and racing together.
I'm gonna be 75.
75! I'm floored.
Yeah. And next year I'll be aging up. Can't wait to go to Nationals... plus, Worlds is going to be at Carson.
Well, how'd you do last year?
Pretty good, 2nd.
That's amazing.
Yeah, but nobody knew who I was. They paired me with a guy and I wound up lapping him twice in a 2k race.
I bet that through you off.
Yes it did. The first time I came up on him on the second lap and thought I messed up the start. Lost the race by .9 seconds.
Dang, that had to cost you several seconds.
Easy.
Well, who are you?
Oh, I was National Champion in '72.
I looked him up, Tom Sneddon was one of the first racers to compete in Europe in the early 70's. On the ride tonight, one of the guys that knows Tom said he even beat the great Eddy Merckx once upon a time.
**Update below from Tom**
I have a feeling they'll all know Tom next year.
Would you like to know which kit Tom purchased?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-all-gray-kit
All gray... for people who smoke the competion.
I gave the locals discount... and I'll give it to the rest of ya's if ya order by end of day Sunday. The code is LOCALS
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.8 lbs
StretchNRoll
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4074792675
** I appreciate the mention however I will never say I “beat” Eddy Merckx. That implies it was just the two of us .
I did have the honor of racing against Eddy for four years in Belgium, Holland, France, Germany and Switzerland and in those four years finished races ahead of him four times .
I never won a race during my years as a professional (I think my highest road placing was 13th but am very proud of having measured myself against the best riders in the world between 1972 and 1977. I rode in three world championships representing the USA.
In 1975 I documented mileage of 32000+ between March 1 and Oct 15.
Unfortunately recognition is not given to many riders who came before the world got smaller with tv coverage and the internet but I’d like to recognize Tim Mountford especially because I rode with him in my earlier amateur days and he signed with Raleigh of Holland showing me a pro career was a possibility.
Ray Matthews, John VandeVelde ( Christian’s dad) Jackie Symes, Skip Cutting, Harold Halsey and Bill Kund were all contemporaries of mine who were US pros and then Jonathan Boyer , the first American to ride in the TDF ( I have a letter somewhere in my files of him requesting training advice from me ) and Mike Neel all before Lemond , though you’ll never hear it from him .
Again thank you
See you on the road .
3 ESSENTIAL SKILLS ALL SUCCESSFUL RACERS HAVE
Sep 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE 3 SKILLS ALL SUCCESSFUL RACERS MASTER, but one is by far the most important.
There's planning...
... starts with registering for the race and ends with crossing the finish line.
There's avoiding mistakes...
... the more you race the more you develop your PEDALsense and consequently avoid mistakes.
But, the most important by far to keep moving...
... no matter how bad it hurts, no matter how bad things get, no matter what...
... keep moving!
Keep pedaling. Keep eating. Keep drinking.
I remember a really tough road race I did outside of Bakersfield. It was just a vicious course. Legendary. It was my first time racing it. I was dropped fairly early. There was no way I was going to finish anywhere near the top 10. I was already 40 guys down.
But, I kept pedaling and eating and drinking.
This isn't some comeback story at all.
It's a story of picking off one racer after another until I passed a former California State Champion, a guy who'd beat me like a drum for years. Yes, he was having a bad day.
Did I podium? No.
I wound up 18th or 12th or something, but it didn't matter. I beat the champ, once. That shiz gives ya confidence. Ya can't buy that, but you can use it a lot in the future.
So many quit when it gets hard.
But not us.
Not me.
Not you.
That's ain't our way. Ever.
We keep pedaling. Always. In everything we do.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162/8 lbs
StretchNRoll
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4071238181
IT'S NOT LONELY AT THE TOP
Sep 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO AS GIVEN A LITTLE MORE AT THE TOP OF A CLIMB THIS WEEK? I can't even say it's subconscious. Like this morning, I pulled on one of my yellow jerseys...
... next thing I know I'm kicking hard up the last 100 meters of my local climb...
... imaginary fans screaming Allez, Allez, Allez!, Imaginary foes in awe, have no answers, Imaginary announcers can't contain themselves...
... Well Bob, The Ol' Diesel is living up to his name today. Look at the determination, the metronomelike churning of his old pistons flattening the hopes of the youth...
... Phil, nobody saw this coming, the domination of the silverhaired beast!
I couldn't wait to upload, even though the Wahoo wasn't recording bpm. I'd taken the gravel rig over to two of my local climbs and I was just sure I'd laid down fast times.
I mean, I better.
New, lighter, faster, better bike on dirt climbs I typically hit on my MTB or my previous gravel bike named HVY MTL.
2 PRs.
You know what that is right? It's proof advertising works. I've been advertising to my mind great climbing feats for nearly 3 weeks now. It's bound to rub off.
It's also proof gravel bikes on dirt roads climb faster than mountain bikes.
Finally, it's proof I've dropped about 3 lbs in the last 5 weeks.
It matters.
Does wearing the yellow jersey matter? Maybe if it's the lightest jersey on the market, made with fine Italian fabrics right here in CA.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos
Check out how thin that fine mesh front is... it's weird too. Super cool on hot, hot days yet surprisingly comfy when there's a chill in the air. Maybe weird is the wrong word... magical would be better.
That's me modeling with my lopsided - buster off an 1" of my collarbone once - shoulders.
Anyway, you get the idea... our Speed jerseys are tres bien.
The matching bibs are smashing as well.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos
Me again. The bibs come in Regular and Tall. In this pic I'm in the Regular cut. I prefer that cut in the summers for the purely vain reason of better tan lines.
Anyway, if ya like that kit... we call it Dia de los Muertos and if you order it now you can have it before Halloween.
Just don't tell anyone I told ya to use this promo code: Allez
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dia-de-los-muertos
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
163 lbs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4063883113
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4066335559
A SMIDGE, A SLAM AND A GLOB WILL DO YA
Sep 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT TAKES A WHILE TO GET A FEEL FOR BIKEY THINGS. How tight to turn a screw, How much tire pressure, How much drink mix, How much food...
... today I needed to twist my cleats a smidge.
The reason for such smidginess was to align them properly for yours Diesely. I stand and walk like a duck, so heels in for me. But, not too much... just a smidge.
Tomorrow, I will not be putting on a glob of PR Lotion. The reason being that I'm still rehabbing my calf which I messed up by not slamming new cleats all the way back when I went from Speedplay to Durace. I'm traditionally a slam'emback guy, and somehow missed this... rookie move, I know.
I'm gonna take it easy until I'm the smidging and slamming is muy comfy.
I guess I might put on a glob PR Lotion, because I'm sure the set up on other bike, the BMC-URS, is perfecto... yeah, I'm putting on a glob fo' sho'...
... and I'm not the only one, stage winners are too! Did you see this one?
You can read the details below or just take my word for it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go
Buy 2 PR Lotions, get 1 Chamois Butt'r free when you use this promo code: GLOB
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go
By Nigel Mitchell, Cycling World Tour Nutritionist, Clinical and Olympic Dietitian
The basics of sports science are pretty much understood and there isn’t much that has come out in the last few years that has been a genuinely new concept. What has changed is technologies have gotten better and our understanding of how to maximize concepts has improved. I believe sodium bicarbonate and PR Lotion is a perfect example. It’s not a new concept, but the route of delivery has changed now from oral to transdermal.
When I first started in nutrition and was working in cycling back in the 1990s, we explored the use of sodium bicarbonate with some positive effects. But the risk of a negative reaction outweighed the potential benefits. So sports performance professionals stopped talking about it and using it. Now that a technology exists that can sidestep the negative side effects, it’s worth exploring because the science behind sodium bicarbonate supplementation is there.
When you get to the professional level, most athletes have maximized their physiological performance and the opportunity for improvement is fractions of a percent. Therefore, podium finishes are the result of more than talent. They are the culmination of years of consistent training and fine-tuning recovery strategies needed to support it. Any tool that can improve one of those areas is important.
Evaluation Process
I was first introduced to PR Lotion by Simon Clarke; he’s a very accomplished pro cyclist and a believer in oral sodium bicarbonate. He told me PR Lotion worked for him and that I should take a look into it, so I reached out to my external support network. It turns out that one of the researchers I contacted was already working on a project focused on PR Lotion and had positive things to say.
In my own evaluation of any new product, there are 2 areas I always consider:
What is the scientific theory behind it?
Oral sodium bicarbonate is well researched but the drawback has always been the GI distress. PR Lotion is an interesting alternative. By getting sodium bicarbonate into the body through the skin, PR Lotion makes a proven supplement available for use on a regular basis.
What is the risk?
When it comes to risk, I focus on the potential adverse health effects and how a product fits in with anti-doping policies. Amp Human has done the legwork to become certified Informed Choice and Informed Sport so that covers the regulatory and they are cleared by the FDA, so product safety is there.
Knowing PR Lotion is a product that has solid theory and really low risk, I was comfortable bringing in our team doctor, Dr. Kevin Sprause. He has a great sports science understanding and I really value his insights and knowledge. We may not have been 100% sure about what to expect, but we had to explore what this could potentially do for our athletes. To be elite, to be cutting edge, you can’t always wait for the definitive science. Sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.
Implementation
When introducing new products to my athletes, I’m always honest. The conversation is around the product, the potential benefits, the theory behind it, and the feedback I’ve gotten. Then ultimately it’s their choice. Athletes are usually willing to try something when there's no BS around it.
When we started using PR Lotion at EF Pro Cycling, we began with a training session. When the sessions went well or the rider didn’t perceive any effect, we then tested it out in a time trial training session. After those 2 sessions, we collected feedback that varied from “I’m not sure it did anything” to “I really like that stuff.” The key here is that there were ZERO negative side effects. No GI distress like with oral sodium bicarbonate. I wasn’t looking for massive changes immediately; sodium bicarbonate can be such a subtle thing and can have a bigger impact over time vs. immediate use, but no side effects confirmed there was now a safe and effective way to integrate bicarb as a performance aid to the team. After those trials, we saw significant enough improvements that we made PR Lotion part of the core routine to make sure it's available to those athletes that want to use it.
When it comes to routine, on race day, we work backward from the start time, pre-race meal, some recon work and look at applying PR Lotion 90 min before the start. Depending on the athlete, it gives them enough time to dress and start their warm-up 20-30 min before the race. In a training situation, we have the athletes apply the lotion before they head out on the ride.
Benefits
There are a lot of questions around influencing muscle pH and how that may affect performance and recovery. When training or competing at or above the lactate threshold, the body produces more acid than it can process leading to a shift in pH. The higher acidity causes negative effects on muscle function and the biochemistry of the muscle so being able to alkalize the muscle to a preferred pH is something that's interesting.
For the athlete, where intensity and volume are important (ie training sessions and competition), the threshold can be a limiting factor in performance. By using PR Lotion, we can deliver sodium bicarbonate to the body, in the hope of delaying reaching that threshold. In doing so, we may be able to get better performance. The other key here is in alkalizing the tissues, we may help the muscle return to neutral pH more quickly aiding in the recovery process to prepare for the next day. In pro cycling, athletes have to perform day after day after day in training and in competition. Anything that can aid in that recovery should be looked at and evaluated.
Take Away
The science behind the PR Lotion is still evolving but the feedback that we’ve gotten has been very positive. In my mind, the biggest benefits of PR Lotion are around recovery and how it supports training over time and in athletes that are competing multiple times over consecutive days.
I know PR Lotion is used across multiple sports in the USA and abroad and we’re seeing better recovery so we’ve added it to the suite of things we're trying to get done. It’s about maximizing recovery in a simple package and PR Lotion is a brilliant tool to help do that.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go
Buy 2 PR Lotions, get 1 Chamois Butt'r free when you use this promo code: GLOB
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-that-make-you-go
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
163.2 lbs
30 PullUps 90 PushUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4061260006
SIMPLE SUGARS
Sep 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE CREAKY DOOR AT THE GENERAL STORE. Dusty MTB shoes clunk across wood floor.
Grab a coke. Air is full of smoke.
A heavyset lady rings me up, then chats me up.
I like your uniform.
Thank you.
Where'd you ride from?
San Clemente?...
I coulda just headed on out, but I stayed. She was nice. The store was slow. Kinda dark. I don't know if she was lonely. Either way it was good. To just talk. About nothing. Local lore, closed roads, the approaching Fall, and such.
... you be careful out there.
Yes, ma'am.
I sat on the picnic bench a bit.
Enjoyed my Coke, just like the ad promised.
Cars sped by on the country road. Customers came and went. Everybody in such a hurry to get somewhere other than where they were.
Not me.
...
I get a lot of comments on this kit. Some hate it, most love it.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/military-camo
It's our military camo design. Available as a kit, changing poncho or RaceDay Bag™.
Buy the kit and get the changing poncho free when you use this promo code: SIMPLESUGARS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/military-camo
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.2 lbs
Stretch
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973
THINGS THEY DO FOR LOVE
Sep 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE'S A STORY BEHIND EVERY RACER. Probably a hundred stories. Stories of triumph and failure, training hard and winging it, riding together and going it alone. Those are the ones we live to tell.
There are others that often go untold and unnoticed...
... and they make all the difference.
Right before I hit the hay last night, my good friend Emetski shot me a picture of his son's 2 RaceDay Bags™.
Apparently one race day bag isn’t enough for Lotoja. John requires two. I’m driving support for him tomorrow.
I wish I had something pithy to add, or some sappy remark... I got nothing. Because I'm driving support for him tomorrow says it all.
Then I woke up to a message from my nephew, with a pic of his son's bike ready to race NICA.
Race day bag all ready to go for Goose!
The parents, spouses, siblings, children, friends... that giant network of love that supports us, that we support... they are the very best part any race, without them there is no story.
And sometimes they worry about us, and we worry about them.
Which is why I like to ride with blinkies day or night when I'm on the road... like these that flash front and sides.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/knog-lights
Use promo code: LOVE
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/knog-lights
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973
THE PRICE OF MEMBERSHIP
Sep 11, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE STORY OF MY VERY BROKE FRIEND. I say nearly broke, because he put his last $50 down on membership in the classiest country club in town. His dream was to earn the respect of the community and own a spectacular home on the golf course.
I've returned to the private telling of that story to me many times during my ride through life...
... because he made it happen.
Rather than let his reality tailor his dreams, his dreams tailored his reality.
This isn't a time for an If it were easy everyone would do it conversation. We already know that. Nor is this any kind of a pep talk. It's a simple question...
... who is the tailor of our future?
I suppose this is why I'm such a proponent of signing up for events as soon as possible. Think of it as the price of membership in a very exclusive club. A club where everything starts to align itself: training, equipment, diet, etc... but, most importantly, the calendar.
Working backwards from RaceDay is magic.
It's the dream, tailoring our reality.
Today, I plunked down my shekels for BWR CedarCity.
It's going to be terrible. Heinous. Awful. And I can't wait!
The next 35 days are going to be filled with a lot of gravel riding. Upper body work. All the things that will lead up to a wonderful day with 2000 of my closest friends.
It's a gravel ride/race, and I have a badass BMC gravel bike - https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
Of course, I'll be doing some mods on it. Testing out tires and pressures. Ya know... making it into a real rascal.
This is the best time of year to ride gravel. If you're ready for an amazing rig, give us a shout. Especially if you're in the PEDALposse.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/join-the-pedalposse
Every dollar spent gets you an entry into -> Ultimate RaceDay Bag™ Giveaway
---
162.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973
FROM HAIRLESS TO HELPFUL
Sep 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I WAS A LATE BLOOMER. And, it sucked. My friends were big and strong. I was small and weak. They were fast. I was slow. They starred in the ball and stick sports, I scratched and clawed to play on a terrible tennis team.
How bad was it?
Well, picture this. You're 16, just got pulled over for looking too young. Not a big deal. This is a big deal...
... you're in the hot tub with your pals - your pals!!!! - and the popular ladies and someone noticed you got no armpit hair.
Yeah, that convo just went downhill... not as quick as my arms dropped to my sides. I tried to make it stop, then "remembered" I had to be home by midnight.
I was so embarrassed... and I was really hacked off.
Swore I'd never hang with them again. Made all kinds of promises to myself. Slunk around school the next couple of days.
Anyway, eventually I grew a pair. And all was right in the universe...
... until I borrowed my roommates road bike.
It was that fateful when I went for an 8 mile - 8 miles! - bike ride. No, actually it was the next day when I took it without asking and went 12 miles... Yeah, that was the day I fell all in love again with bicycles.
I was still a skinny kid, but that turned out to be a good thing.
Finally there was something I could be kinda good at.
But the best part, which I had no idea of at the time, is bike riding and racing is a lifelong sport... all those ball and stick sports eventually wind up really hurting people. And they get on bikes to rehab. And a lot of 'em figure out this bike riding and racing thing is pretty cool.
I talked to a number of customers this week who are really excited to go and ride their first century.
And they're asking me how quick can they get their RaceDay Bags™, and what else will the need, and I realize how dawgawn lucky I am to do what I love to do...
... to make products I know will help make RaceDay better.
Like our changing poncho. It's such a drag to try and change in a car. The poncho is just so handy.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
And this video is pretty entertaining.
Use promo code; LOVEWHATIDO
At checkout.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
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163.4 lbs
PullUps and PushUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4035307973
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