THINGS DIDN'T GO AS EXPECTED AT THE RACE LAST NIGHT.  While I arrived plenty early, felt wonderful on the warm up, and ripped off the front on the first lap...

... I made a big booboo on the second lap.

It was my fault.

Let me preface it all with this bit of truth from the allegory of the olive tree.  The master of the vineyard, wanting to preserve his trees ordered his workers to dung the ground.  In other words...

... without pig shift trees were gonna die.

So it is with racing, if we aren't blundering or worse from time to time...

... there would be no growth.

My blunder?

Trusty Mike came through and told us it was a 3 lap race.  The announcer said it was a 2 lap race.  For some dumb reason 3 stuck in my head, and I didn't mind turning over the lead as we finished the second lap...

... until the cat I was stalking sprinted for the line.

It was too late for me to do anything.

I burned in that shifty thinking by completing the third lap anyway.  Apparently, that wasn't enough because when I related the idiotic episode to Surfergirl she reminded me...

... you've done that before.

Some lessons we get to repeat, until we master.

Which is the point.

Mastery.

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

How do you like the red glove, red sock combo to go with the red helmet and red R on the kit?

If you're into to looking sharp, this month's buy the gloves and socks special is awesome.

Just put the gloves and socks in the shopping cart and you automatically receive the socks for free.

Buy Gloves, Get Socks.

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

---

163.5
5.5 hrs (so hard to sleep after evening races)
0 Pull Ups + 30 PushUps +15 Heavy Squats 
25 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

SAN DIEGO COUNTY MIGHT JUST BE THE BEST COUNTY ON THE PLANET for getting after it on road bikes.  A stunning coast line, a rich field of challenging talent, bike lanes...

... and the best weather on earth.

It's where I received the sage wisdom from a crusty wrench in a small, passionate shop on PCH...

... It takes 3 years to know what you're good at racing bikes.

At the time, I was living in a small studio in Pacific Beach.  A hotbed for jazz, kids and fooling around...

... fancying myself a stage racer

The beach town knew I was odd, with my shocking blue Gios and Campy Record.

Didn't care a bit.

Rode at dawn, worked my first job hard, and lived for the SDBC Saturday ride.

Typical younggun, all spice no calories.  

I'd spurt ahead, get laughed at.
Spurt ahead, get dropped.
Chase, survive.
Loving it.

Learned I wasn't a stage racer at all, it was crits and circuits for me.  Still is on the road.

So, I was thrilled today to see some new designs come through for the famed squad that taught me so much back then.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/sdbc-san-diego-bicycle-club-store

This is the second time we've updated their designs on our gear.

Y'all all know it's my long standing dream to see an entire team in their changing ponchos, post race, yacking it up, dropping their bibs.

It's a great time of year for the changing poncho...

... who wants to wiggle around in their car when you could stand loud, proud, and modest?

If you fancy ponchos for your team, let me know.

If you want a stock design, go here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

Use promo code: PONCHO by friday.

Yes, the code works on stock designs or your team's custom design.

---

164
8.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 PushUps +15 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

RUNNING HAS A LOT OF CROSSOVER WITH CYCLING.  Legs, lungs.  Sprinting, enduring.  Shoes, shorts.  Winners, losers.  And, of course...

... all runners eventually come to the bike.

They just don't know it.

But, there's something a lot of cyclists don't know and that is that running books are by and large much better reading than books on racing bikes.

Better stories.
Better insights.
Better performance data.

Maybe it's because more people run?

 

The latest find is by the U.S.'s half-marathon record holder, who also held the U.S. marathon record.  His name is Ryan Hall...

... and his younger brother is a local slayer on mountain bikes.

The book is called, Run The Mile You're In.

Here are a few takeaways:

• Once we cease to be impressed by the size of our challenges, our ability to overcome them grows exponentially.
• If we want to change our results, we've got to change our hearts.
• The way to become mentally tough is to believe you are mentally tough

If you're into the spiritual side of endurance racing you'll enjoy this book.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

Running is also great cross training, and the SuperTech T is perfect for that.

Use promo code: ToddsFaveT

... and you'll save 20%

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

---

164.3
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 PushUps +10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling 

DEPENDING ON YOUR RIDING STYLE, BIKE AND FLEXIBILITY you might want to change your bar height.  Lower can be faster, put in you in a more aero position...

... but, bars too low can be slow.

Are your bars too low?

Maybe.

Not those bars on your bike.

Your performance bars.

Mine have been and I can't get this thought out of my head...

... the hardest bars to raise are our own.

For example, I know to hit my most audacious goal for the summer I've got to shed a few lbs.  There's just no way to reach the speeds I want unless I'm lighter.

Basic physics.

But, when I checked the scales last night and saw I was set to have a light weigh in this morning...

...what did I do?

Grabbed an extra bowl of dessert.

So weak.

Rather than get to that next level, I chowed myself right back to where I've always been.

It's one day, I'll recover...

... but it's one day closer to the start line.

 Stay strong my friends, and raise those bars.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

The bars I care most about are my PRs, which is what this summer is all about.

And, we've certainly raised the bar with the SuperTech T

Use promo code: ToddsFaveT

... and you'll save 20%

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/supertech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

---

163.7
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

CLUBS, TEAMS, CREWS, POSSES, TRIBES.  They draw us in.  Call to us.  Until it's too late, and we find ourselves high on a brutal climb...

... bonked.

Such was the fate of two young adventurers we came across this morning.

9 miles from the bottom.

3400' climbed.

There they were.  

Dismounted...

... not discouraged.

 Garage sale bikes.

Handmedown gear.

Decades earlier I'd collapsed on this same climb.  On a similar day, Brad and I had foolishly joined Jeff and Eric.  

They were Cat 1s out for a good time on a big climb...

... I think we were the entertainment.

We never made it to the top that day.  Instead, we pulled over and enjoyed the view, joking about what a dumb idea it was to try and keep up with those cats...

... it would be years before I would try again.

Eventually I found my tribe, or they found me?

Encouraged me.  Loved me.  Looked out for me.  Taught me...

... what it took to be good.

That's the vibe of our tribe.

Being good.

Even great.

Our best us. 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022

The R stands for

• Race
• Ready
• Rewards

 

Get the kit if you want to represent.

You'll also get 20% on everything we make.

* Note: this is for ambassadors, not to replace your current team.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022

---

164
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 20 PushUps + 0Heavy Squats 
60 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling 

OCCASIONALLY AN ACTUAL COMPETITOR SHOWS UP ON A GROUP RIDE.  I'm not talking about somebody that is going to push me, I'm taking about that rare time...

... someone I might actually be battling with in an A race is present.

Generally speaking, most of us have our club or team or posse or crew we train with.  With these cats we are giving it our all.  Together we go to a big race and we're either working together...

... or taking on all comers.

A year or so back, this cat used to show up from time to time on our group ride.  We'd be slogging it out, hurting each other as much as possible...

... but, I neverever showed all my cards.

There is no advantage to proving how strong you on a training ride.

If a direct competitor is there...

... always hold something back.

Always.

And, if you are visiting one of your competitor's rides to scope their fitness they might do the same to you.

Why do you think the pros feign nursing knees, stomach bug, etc leading up to the Tour de France...

... then show up and slay the competition?

They aren't ill.

They are prepping, building their engines in private.

That's pro.

Be pro.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/raceday-wallet™-2-0

You know what else is pro?

Having a super slim wallet to carry the essentials when riding or out on the town.

We make these out of MTB innertubes.

The part I love is that it's so grippy inside my jersey, it's never going to fall out.

It's all I use...

... keeps me from carrying around a brick on nonsense in my pocket.

Plus, it's proof I'm committed to fitness...

... people dig that.

No promo code on this one... it's a mere $24, and ships for free.

And yes, we can put your team logo on there.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/raceday-wallet™-2-0

---

164
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 20 PushUps + 0Heavy Squats 
60 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling 

THE FASTEST I'VE EVER GONE ON A BICYCLE WAS 63 MPH.  I was helmetless, drafting a loaded diesel down Parley's Canyon on I-80.  Aboard my Cannondale touring bike...

... shorts, t-shirt and shades.

Of those who latched on at the top of the steep decline, I was the last to get popped.  When I finally pulled off, it occurred to me...

... that wasn't too smart.

Had I flatted or hit a wheel-destroying pothole or had a rock been thrown up at my face...

... a helmet wouldn't have saved me.

So why wear one?

Simple answer:  there are plenty of lower speed oopsies where a helmet makes all the difference.

Better answer:  a sexy helmet looks cool and makes us feel fast.

Best answer:  the helmet serves as an unstated reminder that racing is a mental game, as much as it is physical.

At some point...

• it's going to hurt
• things are going to go wrong
• we are going to doubt our abilities

... if we aren't mentally tough, we aren't going to make it.

We must create mental helmets to protect us from the false and weakening beliefs trying to get inside our heads.

Personally, I like a good rapper name.  A WWF moniker.  Dubbing ourselves with powerful titles... 

... to remind of us of who we really are.

Years ago I fell in love with MTB racing, quickly learning I wasn't the best at the shorter more vicious efforts.  My talent lie in keeping my speed up, blasting through technical sections, eating and drinking and rolling right by competitors at the end of much longer races...

... bearing down like that heavy diesel I drafted long ago.

I'm The Diesel.

Unstoppable.

Who are you?
Whats's your power?
Where are you strongest?
When will you unleash this strength?
How will you remember when all seems lost?

Why?

Why not?

Nobody else can do this for you.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit

Of course we all wear helmets all the time.

Especially on insane rides that are likely to fail, like the inaugural (that' ambitious) Surf-N-Summit.

We aren't driving, we're riding.

On gravel, single track, and pavement.

If you're in, or thinking you're in...

 https://pedalindustries.com/products/surf-n-summit

---

162.7
6.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
60 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling 

AFTER A LONG DAY, it ain't always easy to get out and ride.  We're tired.  Maybe a little beat down...

... carrying the weight of the day.

There in the poorly lit garage is refuge.

Some say everything has a soul.  

Science says everything is in motion.

I say there is nothing like the whisper of a bike...

... Put the load, put the load right on me.

We wade through our gear, check the lens is clean, and reluctantly roll off.

Sluggishness slips away.

Our load is lifted.

We are free.

Just wind.

Wheels.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/gift-card

What a gift.

If you have a friend with a load, maybe they need the ease of the worldfamous RaceDay Bag™.

Send 'em a gift card.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/gift-card

---

164
7 hrs
1 Pull Ups + 40 PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

WHAT'S YOUR NORMAL TRAINING WEEK?  5 hours, 10, 15, 20?  Or do you measure miles?  100, 200, 300, 400?  Before I took off to surf in Mexico for a week, I put in 18 hrs, 226 miles, 22,223' of elevation...

... it was my highest fitness of 2022.

By that I mean Strava gave me a fitness score of 134.  The highest I've ever seen was last summer's 136.

I used that fitness to snag 3rd at last summer's Leadville Stage Race and qualify for the Silver corral.  

In August, I let it drop.

I was tired.

Most of the Fall my fitness was in the 90-100 range.

In December, I started to get into the 110 range with the idea of building for the early season races.  But, I got the 'rona on NYE and had to start all over which delayed my peak about a month.

There's normal training, like what I was doing in the fall.  
Staying fit.  
Having fun.
Squeezing in other activities like hiking and surfing and paddle.

The only way to increase our fitness is to increase our normal.
Up the volume.
Get specific.
Squeezing in more time in the saddle, with faster riders who push us.

Our minds for sure, and possibly our friends and family, will be on to us.  They might even say things like...

... That's too hard.

Here we must battle our mind, slough it off, telling it...

... No, this is normal.

Ideally, you've got a good training crew.  This means we're all pushing each other to reach our goals.  We are also drafting off each other's energy and commitment...

... an upward spiral to a new normal.

There's one more thing.

Specificity.

If our A race is a crit, we better be doing speed work and sprints.  An MTB race, we better be on the mtb riding technically challenging courses.  We can be good at a lot of things...

... we can be great at one.

It's not normal to be great.

Don't be normal.

Be great.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts

You know what's not normal?

A tech t made out of the finest Italian fabric.

Most tech t's are made out of nylon.  We use polyester, which is softer than a baby's botton.

Most tech t's are light.  Ours are light as a feather... a baby duck feather.

Most tech t's fit good.  Ours is designed to fit an athlete's body... and make you look so sexy you'll be afraid to go out alone.

Most tech t's are solid colors.  We print ours on demand, so you can have a stunning design in your team colors.

Use this code: TODDSFAVET

to save 20%...

... this code won't last forever.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

---

164.7
8 hrs
2 Pull Ups + 20 PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

IT'S ONE OF THE TRUTHS OF LIFE, that stoners are by far the best racers.  Just look at the results from last weekends competition, and I guarantee you everyone at the top...

... is a big time stoner.

It's day 2 of my 103 day countdown to my big A race of the year, and I realize I've got to up my stoner game, too.

To make my quest extra dynamic, I've chose 4 ridiculous superstretch goals.  I believe I can accomplish all 4 of them...

• Physical - Leadville sub-8, you know about it.
• Mental - sales goal (private)
• Social - go out every weekend
• Spiritual - also private

... because I have systems to follow.

Without a system, goals are really hard to accomplish.  

We start to focus on the goal instead of focusing on what needs to get done today.  When that happens, we are easily sidetracked.  But, when we focus on the system, or process, it takes all the pressure off the attaining the goal.

Lots of people have systems, coaches, plans...

... those who write them in stone always come out on top.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

I don't actually write them in stone, I use a Sharpie...

... and write on my giant calendar.

If you want to harness the power of a stoner, click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

If you want to supercharge that by getting a calendar with your team graphics, click here;  https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project

---

166.1
7.5 hrs
3 Pull Ups + 40 PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 

If yo

THERE IS SOMETHING ABOUT RUNNING TO MAKE SOMETHING HAPPEN.  Not a long run, just getting up and hustling to get something done.  The adrenaline rush...

... it's just like racing.

Everything melts a way.

I was reminded of this while connecting flights in Mexico City.  A dapper young man, clearly an employee, dashed by with a smile and determination...

... of one who knows where they're headed and what do to.

It was unmistakable, and it made me happy to see him run with purpose.

I love that feeling and I get it when racing or chasing a PR.  There is nothing like ripping with confidence.

Here I am at day zero.

A week off the bike.

Mostly rested.

Refreshed.

Ready.

14 weeks from now I will chase a ridiculous goal:  Sub-8 at Leadville.

It's time to implement the C in my book, The Way of the RACER:  Commit to a process.  

The only way I'm gonna be ready to take that on is to stick with my system, like never before.  If all goes according to plan, I'll line up...

... ready to go, knowing exactly what to do.

Happy.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/2022-clear-pedalindustries-water-bottle

 

Something that makes me happy is knowing my bottles are clean inside and out.

 

 Here's a clean offer.

Purchase 4 of these bottles with this promo code: BottleBTGT

You'll pay for 2, and the other 2 are free.

This one is limited, and expires on May 3rd.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/2022-clear-pedalindustries-water-bottle

---

164.7
6 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

I SAT DOWN WITH THE BEST COACH IN THE WORLD.  Maybe the best in the entire Universe.  When it comes to assessing talent...

... he is the word.

This wasn't any sit down, it was after the biggest A race of my life, and he was there to review my files.

I was very impressed at his thoroughness.

Behind him, on the wall, was every race I'd ever done along with all the effort I'd put in.

The A's,
B's,
C's.

He was quiet while I took it all in.  Frankly, it was incomprehensible that he could pull all this together.  

The training rides I'd done,
and the ones I'd skipped or cut short.

All the foods I'd eaten,
the herbalorganic foofoo and the countless apple fritters.

The hours and hours of sleep and resting with my feet up,
and all the nights I'd bingewatched Star Trek and cut my shuteye short.

Everything was there.  

All the good and bad cataloged.

The handful of races I'd won, the smattering of podiums I'd climbed, and the manymany times I'd hung my head in defeat.  

I trained my eyes on him, waiting for his final judgement.

He looked at me lovingly, then changed the data on the wall.

This was an entirely different life.  

Whoever this was demonstrated the discipline of someone destined to develop their maximum potential...

... and the results showed.

It wasn't the outstanding results, it was the lack of defeat.  Even in when he came up short the images of this racer were radiant because...

... he knew he'd given his all.

I looked closer, and saw it was me and the life I could have had... 

... if I'd followed the greatest coach ever.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/2022-clear-pedalindustries-water-bottle

The greatest coaches clearly see all our potential, and all the times we neglect to follow their lead.

Maybe that's why I prefer clear bottles, because I can clearly see when they are dirty...

... inside and out.

There's just something about knowing everything is clean.

 Here's a clean offer.

Purchase 4 of these bottles with this promo code: BottleBTGT

You'll pay for 2, and the other 2 are free.

This one is limited, and expires on May 3rd.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/2022-clear-pedalindustries-water-bottle

---

165ish
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

THE INEVITABLE ACHE SET IN.  I was expecting it and right on cue here it is, a dull leg pain.  Mainly in my thighs at this point...

... there's not much I can do.

Have you had it?

Probably.

Have your friends and loved ones?

No, and don't bother.  

They'll never understand because they've never put the demands you and I do on their bodies.

This occurred to me today when I caught myself thinking in Spanish, something I haven't done for years.  At that time, I was living in Mexico.  One day, I woke up and realized I was no longer thinking in my native tongue...

... I'd used Spanish so much it had taken over.

As timing would have it, when my legs started feeling that dull ache I realized it was because...

... I'd not used the leg muscles for days.

Well, not like I normally do.

Instead of long rides I've been traveling, catching long waves.

Next week, legs...

... next week, just you wait!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/supertech-ts

As well as cross training my tongue I've been crosspurposing my SuperTech T.

Did you know our fabrics are...
so hydrophobic they make excellent surf shirts?
so stylish they make great out to dinner wear?

I don't always travel, but when I do...

... I travel lite.

Use this code: TODDSFAVET

to save 20%... 

... this code won't last forever.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

---

165ish
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THE CHALLENGE WITH ADVENTURE TRAVEL isn't the traveling, the time differences, the unfamiliar domicile, new foods, fast friendships...

... it's our susceptibility.

Because it's our nature to be influenced by the moods, emotions and ways of thinking of those with whom we ride...

... unnoticed.

We return.

Changed.

When, Where, What and How we ride are nothing...

... compared to with Whom.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022

Who are you riding with...

... are they RaceDay Ready™?

That's what that R signifies.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/pedalindustries-raceday-ready-kit-2022

 ---

165ish?
8 hrs needed that
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

SURE, WE ALL SHARE THE COMMON BOND OF THE BIKE.  But, what else?  Eating incredible hamburgers in a remote, sandy Mexican surf town we discussed the many benefits of riding bikes...

... the chief being social.

We wouldn't be in this paradise of perfect waves if it weren't for bike racing.

It was racing that I met Dan, a renowned surfboard shaper and genuine slayer on a bike.  

Next thing I know he's shaping me a custom board and giving me the lowdown on this remote hideaway...

... which just happens to be a place Surfergirl has been longing to charge.

To get me off the bike ain't easy,
but it must be done.

We need breaks.
Variation.
Time off.
Rest.

We need to love other things...

... and take care of the people we love.

 https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

Apparently a few people love my book, because lately people have been purchasing multiple copies.

I love that, for them.

Have you checked it out?

 https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

 ---

165ish?
9 hrs needed that
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE ARE TWO THINGS I HATE TO DO, but should do.  Hate might be a little strong here, let's just say it's reallyreally hard...

... to be motivated.

The weird thing is as soon as I'm doing them...

... I really like it.

There's more to it than that because skipping these two things is reallyreally bad...

... but not right away.

Over time.

Over time, with neglect...

things breakdown sooner
longevity is significantly shortened
peak performance becomes unattainable

... we don't want that do we?

What are they?

• Stretching/Recovery
• Cleaning my bike

How much of difference do they make?

Honestly, I'm not sure.  

I can only tell ya things go a lot better when my bike and body...

... are well-maintained.

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

If you're really into caring for your body, there is nothing better for your hands than our SuperLight Race Gloves.

They come in all kinds of colors.

This month, they are BuyOneGetOne...

... all you have to do is have 2 items in your cart and you'll be credited automatically at check out.

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

 ---

164.8
5 hrs (travel day)
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THE GREAT MAX EHRMANN WROTE DESIDERATA.  The word is latin and means things desired.  I memorized the original text because of a certain warning...

... which I don't always agree with.

At the time, I was a teen, and it was impossible to adhere to.

Now, as a racer, it can be cancerous to ignore such sage wisdom...

... except in one place.

If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.

Where should we ignore it?

On Starva, of course.

Why just today I was researching the MTB Nationals course and I thought to myself...

... let's see who has the fastest time in my age group.

The usual suspects.

But, don't stop there.

Pull those cats up and Starva gives you this nice little data point called...

... Side By Side Comparison.

Right there, front and center, in plain sight is exactly what your competitors are doing...

... what a gift!

Don't get all freaked out, anal, and compary.

Just check it out.  

See what they're doing.  

It's a powerful point of reference.

And remember what ya learnt in my book...

... always do all you can do.

Sometimes by studying others we learn there's more that we can do.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

The book is free, just cover shipping and handling.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

 

 ---

165
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 40 PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

YOU BORROWED A BIKE, got the bug, now what?  Remember those days?  Sheepishly approaching the bike shop hands with questions...

... and feeling like such a newb.

So much to learn...

• simple maintenance
• nutrition
• bike fit
• clothes
• training plans
• tactics and strategies

You should have one goal, only...

... mastery.

You must always be improving you skills, increasing your knowledge, honing your craft...

... then you're in control, depending on no one.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday™-calendar

Perhaps my favorite tool is the giant RaceDay Calendar™. 

It's huge...

... and hung in plain sight.

 Nothing is more powerful than writing down want you want and...

... conspicuously placing it for ALL to see.

Use promo code: GETITDONE!

to save 15%

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/raceday-calendars™/products/pedal-black-2022-raceday™-calendar

 ---

164.5
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
40 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE ARE SO MANY MOVING PARTS TO SUCCESSFUL RACING.  Wheels, chains, cassettes, rings, legs...

... the bike.

But, those aren't always the most important parts.

I was reminding of that this morning, and all I was trying to do was coordinate a training ride.

As I pull up to the trail head, the texts started pouring in...

From Where are you?.  
I'm where you are supposed to be.

To, I'm riding towards you don't wait.
I never do.

To, I'm leaving later.  
I hope you'll catch us.

We're all training for one of the longest and most grueling endurance races in the USA.  

Leadville.

Most participants are happy to finish at all.  The rest of us are trying earn belt buckles, big and small depending on your time.

Year after year people miss the 9hr cutoff for the big buckle by seconds, and 12hr cut off for the small buckle...

... which are cooler than any buckle, ever.

There is no mercy, as there shouldn't be.

In 2012, my moving time was 8:35:42 and my elapsed time was 8:38:51.
In 2019, my moving time was 8:06:36 and my elapsed time was 8:16:07.

That is according to Strava, and I'm not sure it's entirely accurate.  But, you get the picture, if you're aren't well coordinated with your support...

... you can lose big and small time,
and buckles.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project

One thing you can do to help out your crew is have an easy to spot jersey.

Surfergirl really likes this one.

I do, too.

It reminds me to break free of any shackles holding me back.

I made this one for the 2019 race.  At the time, I was developing our Winged Wolf logo.  It wasn't perfect yet.  The image repeats on the bibs...

... on the back of the jersey, across the pockets it reads:  No one of consequence.  That is my favorite line from The Princess Bride, spoken by The Dread Pirate Roberts.

What's the take away for you?

1. Take time to plan ALL of your next adventure.
2. Design a jersey that inspires you and stands out.

Yeah, you should absolutely take advantage of the fact we will make as few as 1 (one) jersey...

... just for you.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project

---

165.1 (still carrying Sea Otter weight)
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

MY FRIEND ANDY FINALLY DID IT!  Something I myself have threatened to do, but never had the courage...

... I'm jealous.

Hopelessly.

Leaving San Diego, he rode north.

Dropped by to see me, invite me...

... give up on me.

He kept going on up to LA, to sleep on a friend's couch.

He rode on to Santa Barbara, planning on a luxury AirBnB for a few days.

Then further north to eventually catch the train back home.

All on his bike.

Who hasn't felt the urge to suit up and ride, never to be seen again...

... at least for a helluva long time?

Bike
T-shirt
Shorts
Flipflops
Credit card

I imagined I could ride 50 miles, then 100, then 200.
I imagined I could start a family, have some kids.
I imagined I could start a business I'd love.

Imagine that.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

Most of what I have imagined into life...

... was created and nurtured while riding alone.

For example the SuperTech Ts.

Use this code: TODDSFAVET

to save 20%...

... this code won't last forever.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

---

164.2
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 14 PushUps + 7 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE ARE THREE THINGS WE JUST CAN'T AFFORD TO LACK, and I'm not talking about a roof over our heads, a chicken in the pot...

... or a Ford in the driveway.

That's only enough to get you thinking you could be a winner.

I learned this from the great Ed Latimore:

If you lack discipline, you won't survive the training.
If you lack talent, you won't survive the race.
If you lack heart, you're useless.

To which I add:

If you have heart,
You'll crave discipline and training,
And develop all the talent God gave you.

Be.
Your.
Best self.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

Most of the time, I'm chasing PRs...

... self-made podiums.

Every now and then I get on a real one, which is exactly what inspired our gorgeous new technical t.

Use this code: TODDSFAVET

to save 20%...

... this code won't last forever.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

---

163.4
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

IT'S JUST NOT THAT COMPLICATED.  The formula is simple, but because it's simple people disregard it...

... check it out.

The last time I was this svelte was after I put on all the weight following my wife's three pregnancies.  Apparently, I was very sympathetic...

... weighing 30 lbs heavier than today.

I cut out a picture of my favorite racer at that time from a magazine.  He was shirtless.  Then, I cut out my head from a photo on hand and pasted right on top of that body...

... and put it on the inside of my medicine cabinet.

Every day, I'd get out of the shower.  Towel around my torso. Swing that door open and brush my teeth looking at my idyllic body while my own body jiggled with the brushing.

Here's the tried and true formula:

• Be.
• Do.
• Have.

I didn't over complicate it.

I set a goal to PR a wellknown local climb.  To crack an hour.  I never did crack that hour, but I took 10 minutes off my PR simply by asking myself...

... what would he do?

Any and all fitness choices went through that filter.  

Food?
Training?
Sleep?
Bike set up?
etc...

... what would he do?

Do that.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

The thing I'm crazy about with our new tech t, is the cut.  The way it fits an athlete's body.

We are athletes, not donutpoundingcremepuffs...

... our forms flow like life and merit the same in our apparel.

Not some lame, cut like a box, heinousness.

This tech t is grace in motion...

... made with an extremely elegant mesh with 4 way stretch.

And, we can make them to match all your race gear.

Just added some more designs tonight.

Stay tuned...

... and use this code: TODDSFAVET

to save 20%...

... this code won't last forever.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

 ---

163.9
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 20 PushUps + 10- Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

TO LIFT OR NOT TO LIFT THAT IS THE QUESTION.  And, if it's good to lift weights in the off-season why should it be bad to do so in the on-season...

... don't we need power when it's on?

A young gentleman rode side by side with me tonight.

I haven't been riding much

No?

No, I only ride a couple of days a week in the winter.

Why's that?

The cold, the dark.

Ah yes.

But, come June and July... you'll see.

A tour fan you are.

Yes, indeed.

Are you still lifting weights regularly?

Of for sure, even though I know it makes me slower.

But, does it?

Is that really true?

I think not.

After squatting almost daily for many, many months, I think it's just not true...

... a myth, a fallacy, an illusion.

Let me give you just 2 reasons to squat daily:

• Your posture will be improved.
• You will feel more confident.
• You will squat often.
• You'll be faster.

I can only vouch for the squats I'm doing with heavy dumbbells in each hand.

The posture thing is legit, and nobody talks about it.  You'll just naturally stand taller and feel a helluvalot better.

Which naturally leads to feeling more confident about everything.

Soon you will notice you bend over less to pick something up.  Instead, you squat down.  All the way down.  Easily.

And yeah...

... you'll definitely have more power on the bike.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

I do my squats throughout the day.  5 after breakfast, 5 on my way out the door, 5 at lunch... and so on.

Sometimes in my work clothes.

Sometimes in workout clothes.

Speaking of which, I've been working on our new Podium Tech T for quite a while.  

I wanted to get the fit just right.

Then, I want to sew it up and test it using the oh-so fine imported Italian fabric we use on the front of our jersey.

It is an extremely elegant mesh with 4 way stretch.

And, we can make them to match all your race gear...

... so you look sharp off the bike,
... working out at the gym,
... or on the podium.

I'll uploading a number of striking designs in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned...

... and use this code: TODDSFAVET

to save 20%.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/podium-tech-ts/products/prs-podium-tech-t

 ---

164.5
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 30 PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

 

CYCLISTS COME IN ALL SHAPES AND SIZES.  In fact, for sheer pleasure on the bike, there is no one size fits all.  However, when it comes to endurance racing, there is one particular shape...

... that seems to rule them all.

Depending on level of commitment and which discipline one chooses to specialize in, the shape of the T-Rex seems most dominant...

... with climbers being the most typical.

Upper body power isn't their thing.

The hierarchy goes something like this:

Climbers
Roadies
Gravelers
Mountain Bikers
Sprinters.

How much you wrestle with the bike is the determining factor...

... in body type and ability to compete.

Personally, I'll gladly carry a few extra pounds to shed that t-rex look.

It ain't about racing.

Just mostly.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

If you're training has lost it's meaning, check this out.

Going into my third round of printing, and seeing all the orders of friends ordering for their friends...

... it's rewarding to know I've made a difference in a few lives.

The book is free, just cover shipping and handling.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

 ---

166
7 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 40 PushUps + 20 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

I'M A LIFER.  Around age 10, I started meeting the fellas for bike rides.  After school, and every single Saturday.  Then, it was just riding.  Fun, transportation, freedom...

... all on two wheels.

Later, as an adult, the idea of staying in shape to keep up with the kids took root.  

Thank heavens it did.  

Can't imagine what their teen years woulda been like if I couldn't show 'em how it's done. 

Maybe it wasn't max-fitness, but for sure I was in much better shape than most of my peers...

... and that meant bigger and better adventures for the family.

Training has more meaning when there is a finish line involved...

... all of life does.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

If you're training has lost it's meaning, check this out.

Going into my third round of printing, and seeing all the orders of friends ordering for their friends...

... it's rewarding to know I've made a difference in a few lives.

The book is free, just cover shipping and handling.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

 ---

165.6
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
30 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

SWEET SPOT TRAINING.  It sounds so innocuous, inviting, even delicious.  Oh, that it were true.  It is kind of, but not when you start...

... it's quite sour.

At least that is how it felt today.  

Even though I'd been looking forward to finally doing some solid sweet spot training, as I prep for my crazyquest at Leadville this summer, when I rolled out the door and pegged my heartrate to zone 3...

... it hurt.

Fortunately, the weather was pleasant and I discovered a string of fresh, new single track.

Is there a better way to start a 5-hour training ride?

Sweet spot training leads to sweet spot racing, which is exactly how I'll be approaching my outlandish goal this summer.

Actually, I did the math. 

It's not as crazy as it sounds.  

I averaged 12.7 mph 3 years ago.  I need to average 13.1 this summer.  .4 miles further per hour sounds doable as allgetout right now.  Especially after today's effort.

63 miles, 9338', 12.2 mph... by myself, today.
105 miles, 10,608', 12.9 mph... with a fair amount of pacelining, 3 years ago.

Those are moving times... the race is elapsed time, which is 12.7, with the stops.

Sweet spot racing will go sour in two scenarios.

One is completely unavoidable, the other must be avoided AT ALL COSTS.

Committing to racing sweet spot means you're going to feel absolutely amazing on the first climb or the first effort of your race...

... fools lose their shift in this moment.

They throw it all out the window, and pin in it with everybody else, first chance they get.  They go right to zone 4, and even zone 5.  So dumb...

... so, so dumb.

The second scenario where sweet spot racing can go sour is not eating enough.  Caught up in the moment of racing, feeling fantastic.  It is extremely easy to think we don't need to eat and drink...

... this is suicide.

Racing sweet spot requires a tremendous amount of calories.

2 Rules.

1. Stay in Zone 3, or below.
2. Eat, drink, and be racy.

 That's it.

You're welcome.

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

Someone recently referred to our gloves as crit gloves.

Makes sense.  

Crits are right up there with DH and Enduro when it comes to risk.

Whatever your flavor, you need a superior feel on your bars.

Yes, the buy one get one is still going...

,,, no promo coded needed.

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

 ---

164.9 (gotta dump all 4.9 of these)
8 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 00 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

 

IT HAD BEEN A LONG DAY, at the end of the long week.  It could just have well been a cold morning in the dead of winter.  Either way...

... sometimes it's hard to train.

But, we do it.

I learned a little trick, and it's neverever let me down.  In fact, it's lead me to plenty a wonder glide around town.

When ya just aren't feeling it, all ya gotta do is...

... pull on your bibs.

Then, your

• Jersey
• Socks
• Shoes
• Helmet
• Glasses
• Gloves

By then, you've built up so much inertia it's easy to throw a leg over the saddle and pedal away...

... locking in a workout many skip.

Not us.

We do the work.

We are the industries...

... in PEDAL.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

Speaking of putting in the work... 

... are you looking forward to the upcoming Giro in May?

In collaboration with the world-famous Horton Collection™, we created these beautiful bags using Brett's stunning vintage fotos of the Giro.

What does this mean to you?

• We can make you custom gear with photos
• You can score for yourself or another Giro lover something truly unique.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

 ---

164.7
7.5 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 20 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

PODCASTS, AUDIO BOOKS, ETC.  I get a lot of recommendations, nearly all I'll check out the intro, some I dive into...

... some are really good.

This week I received two good ones from readers Leif and Randy.

The podcast was a deep, deep dive into Zone 2 training.  Maybe a bit two deep for me.  Part of it covered the amazing talent of Tadej Pogacar, and how he incorporates Zone 2 training.  It was fascinating, timely, and useful.

The book reminded me a bit of Goggins Can't Hurt Me.  It had two rules: 

• It's gotta be hard
• Come back alive

But, there was a third dimension which I thought glued it altogether.  

These recommendations came from readers, just like you, and I found valuable nuggets in each of them I'll be incorporating in my own training.

Other times, I'll get turned onto a book like Waterlogged or  Breathe or Natural Born Heroes on a ride or from a friend who's athletic or see a topic trending on Twitter.

Who we surround ourselves with, the information we consume, matters.

Riding with fast riders is great...
... sharing what they know is more great.

Look for a review of the book in an upcoming post.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

Speaking of looking... 

... are you looking forward to the upcoming Giro in May?

In collaboration with the world-famous Horton Collection™, we created these beautiful bags using Brett's stunning vintage fotos of the Giro.

What does this mean to you?

• We can make you custom gear with photos
• You can score for yourself or another Giro lover something truly unique.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro

 ---

165.1
7.5 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

IT'S WEDNESDAY AND TIME FOR HOT LAPS.  Hot laps is our MTB race simulation we start up each Spring.  We have 3 courses, laps take about 20 minutes...

... well, the hot ones do.

The plan was to do the usual.  A parade lap, followed by an hour of getting after it. 

Tonight's course was slightly altered from last year's in this area.  At the top of an already longish climb, we turned right... 

... for an extra 50 yards at 17%.

Then, into a ribbon of new single track tracing the mountain ridge before diving down and boomeranging off the canyon sides.

Fun stuff, for sure.

But, the plan was to get after it for 3 laps...

... tired from the weekend's racing, we made a weak effort.

When you're weak, 
sometimes you need a week...

... to recover.

We are there.

 https://pedalindustries.com/products/gobabybag™

You know what else isn't according to plan, this bag I made for my grandson's parents.

It's a Classic size RaceDay Bag™ with backpack straps and the extra pockets of the PRO bag...

... marked up to be the raddest diaper bag ever!

Right now I have samples going out to be tested.

In the meantime...

... Whadaya think?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/gobabybag™

 ---

164.9  
7 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

EVER SINCE I READ ABOUT THE HUMMER and it's ability to inflate and deflate it's tires on run, I've dreamt of the day we could do that on our bikes.  Now it's here https://www.scopecycling.com/product/atmoz/...

... and I don't like it.

I can't put my finger on it.

There's just something wrong.  

Like all the edge, hardness, chance is removed and we are left with...

... oh, look at the softy now.

Can you imagine a Greek god riding this tech?

We already rarely get flats, snap chains or pop spokes.  Gone are the days of trailside repairs being a racing skill.  

We have computers telling us how hard to pedal and how fast to spin....

... even monitors testing our blood while racing so we know when to eat.

How will we ever develop backs strong enough to carry the load of life if we keep slicing away the hard with tech?

You know what the problem is though, right?

If/when this gets wide adoption, you and I won't be competitive without it.  Plus, we'll snag even more PRs with it.

Technically speaking it's not cheating...

... but, it feel like we are cheating ourselves of a better, harder experience.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/program-to-get-you-started

If you're looking to harden up, get RaceDay Ready™ in 10 weeks.

Here's the answer: https://pedalindustries.com/products/program-to-get-you-started

---

165.1  guessing, no scale
7.5 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

IT'S RARE THAT SOMEONE IS FASTER THAN ME DOWNHILL.  I've just done it a lot, and I've always had a good feel for going fast.  So, when someone jams hard to get ahead of The Old Diesel before the downhill...

... I just shrug.

Like in Saturday's race, the young buck sprints and slams the door on me at the entrance to a long, downhill singletrack.

He's trying really, really hard.

I'm right on him, barely working.

It's a valiant effort...

... until he loses his front wheel in a sandy turn.

Poor rookie.

You'd think at that point, he'd pull over.  

Not this guy.

He scrambles, while I am stopped.
Blocks the trail, while I am politely asking to go by.
Jumps on his bike...

... and goes even slower, he's shook up.

 Eventually, with some notsosubtle coaxing he pulled over.

Once there is a crack in our confidence,
things can quickly go downhill.  
We hesitate, overthink...

... reacting instead
of relaxing.

So much of going fast is a confidence game.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

If you're looking for increased confidence on and off the bike, check this out.

But, only if you're up for being pushed...

... hard.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

165.5  guessing, no scale
9 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE'S NO DOUBT ABOUT IT, no matter how good or awful our results, the best time to plan the next big goal...

... is right after the most recent race.

There's just something about.

If we got whacked, 
we are motivated by redemption and revenge.

If we dominate,
we're looking for the challenge to conquer is easy.

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

I keep meaning to take pics of all our gloves I see at the races, but I'm not carrying my phone much these days.

You'll just have to trust me, these are rad.

There are lots of color options.

 

And it's Buy1Get1 this month.

No code needed.

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

170?  I dunno, no scale,
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
00 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

MY BUTT WAS SPASMING,.  It was a bit embarrassing.  But, there was no stopping it.  At 8am on the start line, sub0-50, I was in my stretchy underwear, no warmers, no jacket…

… shivering, dressed to race!

It turned out to be my worst result of the year.

And, I was thrilled.

On the second of two 25-mile loops all I could hear was the opening to Eminems Without Me…

… Guess who’s back, back again
Diesel’s back, tell a friend.

Why?

Because for the first time in too long, I put together a good race.

• Good start
• Good nutition
• Good power
• Good finish.

It started last evening when the great Cody helped me dial in my shifting.  Turns out it’s quite simple, ya just gotta know what to do.

Now I do.

I lined up early.  It was mass start, and I slotted early cutting my warmup short. 

Totally worth it. 

We sprinted right from the start, uphill, gunning for the chicane that led to the singletrack…

… it was a clownshow.

But not for us. 

The crew said just a few spots after Eric, Steven, Chris and I got through it stacked up so bad people we walking.

At the last moment, I went with two bottles per lap.  About 300 calories per bottle, and one waffle.

There was one small hiccup.

When I grabbed my salt stick tablets, I popped open an empty bottle.

Ruh-roh!

Fortunately, I was relying on the Apple Watch to track my ride…

… quick texts to the crew and they had mustard and tablets when I came through for second lap.

I was 6ish minutes slower the second time around.  I’d prefer to snug that up, normally I’m faster the second lap or second half of something this long.  However, I haven’t done any sweet spot training this year…

… saving it for Leadville build this summer.

I finished 7^th in the 50+, first finisher in the 60s.  The days of racing my age group on winding down…

… I’ll be self-identifying as a yute going forward.

My biggest takeaway is big distance mountain bike racing is really fun and demanding.  I’m looking forward to the very specific training this summer.

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

I keep meaning to take pics of all our gloves I see at the races, but I'm not carrying my phone much these days.

You'll just have to trust me, these are rad.

There are lots of color options.

 

And it's Buy1Get1 this month.

No code needed.

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

170?  I dunno, no scale, but I've been eating all day... ending at Chris' parents for a massive barbeque.
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
00 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

T'WAS THE NIGHT BEFORE RACEDAY and all through the van,
one creature was stirring, an anxious fit man
the race plate was hung on the bars with care
in the hopes that the start line would soon be there...

... that's how it feels the night before.

We shine things up, pick out our favorite clothes.

Then, for me at least, it is time to go to my laboratory where the mild mannered Dr. Jekyll in me will prepare the final recipe for ripping.

Being on point with the nutrition is critical to being able to start strong...

... and finish strong.

I pre-rode the course today in 2 1/2 hours.  I was really softpedaling.  I expect tomorrow to be significantly faster.

But, how much faster?

Will I need 1 bottle per lap or 2?

It will be 50 degrees at the start, warming up to mid-60s by the finish.

What is the best way to consume 300 calories per hour?

The start is gonna be nuts.  Full sprint for 5 minutes to try and get to the single track in front.  The first 3 miles of singletrack are pretty much impossible to pass on.  10 miles in it opens up quite a bit and it should be easy to eat and drink from there on.

Don't tell anybody, ok?

I'm going to start with 1 bottle of 400 calories of Skratch Superfuel, plus 4 Honey Stinger waffles.

On lap two, I'll have 2 more bottles with 300 calories each.  One with caffeine. 

Also on board will be my Salt Stick tabs.

The catalyst for all that will be my TFNB playlist

If that don't turn me into Mr Ryde, nothing will.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™ 

It's never too late to make your year great.

Ain't nothing like have a GIANT CALENDAR to confront you with the reality that life goes fast and you are wasting it if you're not planning it.

No excuses to not have something challenging planned, and well-executed.

Any Dr. can tell you the benefits of an Evil plan to kickarse.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™ 

 ---

162.9 (? traveling, no scale)
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
15 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

SEA OTTER IS THE LARGEST BIKE FESTIVAL IN US,  A few years back, this beast killed Interbike, the industry's largest tradeshow.  Oh, there were other things in play...

... but, Sea Otter remains king.

• There's the giant expo, where the latest product is revealed.
• Downtown biz meetings where the real deals are made.
• And racing
• MTB
• DH
• Dual Slalom
• Crits
• Circuits
• Road
• ... and Gravel
• Plus a host of product demos

My first visit, in the 90's, was to race the circuit race on the racecar course.  There is nothing like it.  A punchy climb, a 50-60mph plummet down the corkscrew...

... what's not to love?

Some how I'm never raced MTB here.

That changes Saturday.

I pre-rode some of the course.  It's beautiful.  Ribbons of singletrack lace through green spring grass.  I'm doing the 80K, long version.

But, I might do more.

For some reason they have the gravel race on the same exact course the following day.  I love ripping singletrack on my gravel bike...

... it's so very tempting.

A bunch of us are here, some racing road and some mtb and some circuit and some gravel.

There really isn't anything like Sea Otter...  there are fondos and tours, too?

What I am curious to see is how many racers show up now that USACycling is not part of the event.  When LifeTime purchased the event they decided to exclude USACycling.

It seems to me that effect the roadies more, because roadies are more into the category upgrades.  The dirt side of the sport has always been more laissez-faire.

Oh, and I'm kinda curious to race on the famous trails of Fort Ord...

... actually, super curious...

... I love racing unknown trails.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/canopies-banners-and-flags/products/bike-rack-banners

Another thing I love is seeing the bike rack full of bikes.

If have one of these racks, let's make you some banners.

$99, for a set of two.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/canopies-banners-and-flags/products/bike-rack-banners 

 ---

162.9 (? traveling, no scale)
7.5 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 10 PushUps +  Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
25 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

 

HAVE YOU EVER HAD A GREAT COACH?  The best have 1 thing in common, whether it be sports or business or relationships.  Of course, they are masters of advanced techniques and the basics...

... but, this is the most basic.

On our journey towards personal greatness, there is one thing a great coach provides that makes everything better...

... and I screwed that up this week.

A young tadpole signed up for some specific coaching for a specific event.  He was, and thankfully still is, very energetic in his quest...

... this ain't no I wanna be better journey.

He's after something big, and I failed to recognize where he was starting from.  I threw him into the fire.  Most people would have quit, and never come back.  But...

... this youngin isn't most people.

This is my kind, our kind, of athlete.  A fearless, freakin' charger who's only goal on the bike is to achieve his PR.

What do all great coaches impart?
Why to their athletes love them?

Confidence.

We love the feeling of confidence on RaceDay.
This, above all else, is what you want from your coach.

You know what a lot of good coaches order from PEDALindustries?

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

RaceDay Bags™, because these bags give you confidence.

Do you have a friend who struggles on raceday?

Or, one who is always showing up unprepared for the big ride?

Well, I'd sure love to help you help them out.

So, check this out:

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/share-our-mission-earn-a-commission

 ---

162.9
7 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

I PUT SOME NEW SHOES ON MY MOUNTAINBIKE.  Had to.  After shattering my rear wheel racing last month, I'd kinda been resigned to racing on a loaner this weekend...

... but, all that changed today.

Before I tell ya how it happened, let me tell ya my first impression.

Because I wasn't shopping for new wheels, I wasn't scouring all the reviews and scheming of just the right set.  I had no preconceived notions...

... ie: marketing bs clouding my judgement.

When I picked up a new set of Crank Brothers wheels I was just excited to have something this weekend...

... that's as far as my stoke went.

I threw on some new rubber as well, the Conti RaceKings.  I've had a lot of luck with them as a rear tire and chose to put one on the front as well since it's time to start experimenting with fast treads for Leadville.

• New wheels
• New rubber, less tread up front.

I snagged this without really trying.  At the time, I knew I was ripping along so I was kinda curious to see the results when I uploaded...

... and not surprised.

 

I wasn't surprised with the result, but I was.

How could these wheels be so fast?

Could the front really track better than any wheel I've ever had...

... even with a less aggressive tread?

Well, yeah, obviously.  

Was it really possible that the rear tire put down the power better?

These were the thoughts I was having because the sensations were so palpable.  

Part of me wanted to hustle back and read the reviews, especially what the lying sunsaguns in the marketing department were saying.  I wanted to read what their biased wordsmithing had produced...

... exactly what I was experiencing.

A helluva wheelset.

Now, you might be wondering how I was able to get these when they have a four month backlog. 

To be clear, I warmed up the Amex and paid... this ain't no fluff piece from some sellout.

My inside track was through one of my pals who was kind enough to pull a string...

... making me even more indebted to him.

And, it didn't hurt that Crankbrothers R&D just moved to San Clemente...

... I really do live in the ActionSports version of Silicon Valley.

Everybody here is vibing off each other.

Pretty cool to be part of it.

You're part of it, too.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles

Do you know why I love clear bottles?

Because you can see all the grime on the outside, and all the mold and crap that collects on the inside...

... oh, and you can see how much liquid is left.

This offer will end either Thursday or when we sell out... whichever comes first.

Promo code is NOBS

And it saves you 50% on these awesome bottles.

But, only while supplies last or Thursday.

Act Now!... 

... you know you want at least 2 new bottles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles

 ---

163.8
7.2 hrs
15 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THE LONGER WE'RE INTO THIS SPORT, the more we are able to assess value.  Sure, we still drink the kool-aid our favorite brand is pouring...

... and that's cool.

What's not cool is how much this ability to assess value costs us, but I really don't have a good answer...

... I mean I do, but it might hurt.

Take this convo with my newest padawan.

How's your bike fit?

Oh, it's great!

Then, why did you get that rando cramp last night?

Uhhhh

Who did your bike fit?

Steve.

Oh, he's awesome.

How long ago?

3 years.

And there it was.  

3 years.
3 years?
3 years!

No wonder he was miserable first night out with us.  Poor little feller didn't have a clue...

... I set him off to a pro.

Fastforward to today.

How was the fit sesh?

Oh, man amazing.

Really?

Yeah, he changed everything.

Everything?

Well not my shoes, but I have new ones ordered.

What's wrong with your shoes?

Too tight.

You didn't know they were too tight?

No, I got 'em on sale.  40% off of $400 shoes.

 

We've got a ways to go, as you can see.

Want to save some money?

• Hire a coach.
• Take the veterans to lunch.

You could do some research on your own...

... just be careful with the koolaid.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-leadville-letters

If you were racing Leadville, or any of their races, you could save yourself a ton of money reading this.

Use promo code: BUYSMART

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-leadville-letters

---

165.6 (yikes)
8 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
10 minutes recovery
50 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THERE ARE A FEW THINGS I'M PRETTY GOOD AT ON A BIKE.  One of them is momentum.  I have to be...

... because I'm not very good at a lot of other things.

Momentum is free and can make the difference between victory and defeat...

... after we put in the work.

Momentum through a turn,
tucking a long descent,
the final sprint.

Those are the obvious areas, but what about the unseen momentum?

1. Registering well in advance for a big race.
2. Always doing all I can do everyday.
3. Committing to a successful system and plan.
4. Expecting good things to happen.
5. Reviewing each milestone along the way.

Those are the keys to lifelong momentum.

Just yesterday the Stravaverse confirmed I have some momentum.  

Up one particularly punchy hill, I knew I was going good.  

We started from a dead stop at a light.  I tucked in behind the younger, spicer rippers.  It hurt.  It hurt so good.  The kinda hurt where you're dawgawn sure it's a special effort.  As the gradient backed off, we could see the light ahead was turning red.  They eased up, I pedaled on...

... the momentum too good to waste.

Where's the unseen momentum?  

Nobody could see the squats I've been doing, the pound or two I've shed...

... I'm the only one who knows if I'm doing all I can do.

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

 On the ride yesterday, I was smiling...

... so many of the posse were donning my Superlight Race Gloves

Maybe it's because the fit is so amazing,
or because there are so many color options,
or is it the heat sensitive thread to operate devices,
or could it be the insane buy one get one offer that's going on?

Whatever it is, 
it makes me happy.

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

---

165.5 (not good)
8 hrs
5 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 5 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
150 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

AHHH, THE BIRTHDAY RIDE.  Happens once a year for all of us, sometimes even on a Saturday.  We have this old guy...

... and today was his day.

The Gentleman (not the old guy) politely stated, I'd like to find a bathroom before we meet up with the group.

Censoring laws prohibit a direct quote, but the old guy went on about some Play-doh reference...

... some people never group up!

We're all guilty of that by my reckoning.  

Long beyond using bikes for transportation, we meet up at the corner for the weekly rip around town.  And, it's a dern fine thing...

... ain't it?

We rode 90ish miles today, 6000' of vert, over 19mph. 

Who does that?

Do you want to go for a 90 mile drive around town?

Heckno!

Do you want to ride for 5 hours, max your heartrate, come home and collapse on the couch?

Hellyeah!

We do that.

Every year for as long as we can...

... which is why I probably still crack poop jokes.

---

After a few frustrating finishes in March, I was feeling burned out and unsure of Sea Otter next weekend.  But, Hot Laps Wednesday felt great...

... and today felt even better.

I took it very easy M, T, Th, F and got after it W and S.  That is polarized training, and just what I needed this week.

 Stephen Seiler posted this link on Twitter, and I highly recommend it...

... it's long, but worth it.

https://sportsmedicine-open.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s40798-022-00438-7

I also highly recommend DZ Nutz for long rides like today.

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

If I was 60 I'd crack a joke on where to apply this wonder ointment...

... but, the name is pretty good as it it.

If you're part of RaceDay Ready, use your 25% off code.

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

---

165.1 (oops)
7 hrs
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
0 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

I'D SPENT THE SUMMER PREPARING TO REDEAM MYSELF.  A year earlier, I'd raced the Leadville 100.  I'd finished, got the big belt buckle...

... but it was a miserable day on the bike.

This year would be different.

I knew what lay ahead.  I trained specifically on the biggest climbs around.  Watched my weight.  Got a new bike...

... there was only one problem.

As we bombed across the vast Utah desert, I grabbed my bag to find my sunglasses.  It was a big dome bag and it carried everything in its giant blackhole.

I found the glasses...

... my shoes were nowhere in site.

Diving further back in the car, while the guys chatted, I started to sweat. I clawed through my other bag...

... maybe they were there?

Then, I saw them.  Clean.  Shiny.  In my mind I could see them, in reality they were hundreds of miles behind on the back porch...

... where's I'd left them.

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!

This was when you paid dollars per minute to roam on your cell phone...

and boy did I pay!

• A shop in Grand Junction had shoes, no cleats.
• A shop in Rifle had cleats, but would be closed when we passed through. I begged and pleaded to pay over the phone and have them left outside.
• Meanwhile, Surfergirl was hustling to FEDEX to Next Day Air shoes to Leadville... a city, so remote at the time, Next Day Air wasn't guaranteed.

 Now you know where I got the inspiration for the RaceDay Bag™ˆ.

Every one of the products we make and sell has an origin story like that.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/changing-ponchos

For example, The Changing Poncho.

My hometown is a big surfing community, world-class breaks abound.  I grew up surfing, and still surf often with my lady.  Most of us towel change, but it's not as easy or convenient as a giant poncho.

Not only is the poncho awesome for changing, but while I'm changing, I use it to wipe off any grime from the ride...

... not only on my body, but my bike as well.

The microfibre is durable enough for all your gear, 
but soft and comfy our bodies.

 Use promo code: changeINstyle

To save 20%

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/changing-ponchos

---

164.9 (oops)
7 hrs
10 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

LOCALLY, WE HAVE CREATED SOME REALLY FUN RACE FORMATS.  From the Belgian Waffle Ride's unRoadRace to CritCross's go cart track with added dirt berms and jumps to the unOFFICIAL Tuesday Morning World Championships...

... I love the creativity and freshness.

But, the true test, for me, is an epic.

A long, long challenging route.
Unforgiving elements.
A time cut.

There are myriad long, challenging routes.
Countless courses to curse.
But, without a time cut...

... it's just a race.

And, I don't mean a Hey, if you're slow we're gonna pull ya kind of cut...

... I mean, you miss the cut you miss
the badge of honor,
the coveted prize.

With these types of races, the challenge is not to crush the competition it is to finish.  What happens is unlike all other races.

Everyone starts spunky, bouncy, full of cocky confidence and transitions into business mode.  The paces are set, the nutrition consumed at precisely timed intervals.  The miles roll by...

... and the racers roll on.

Friendships, no...

... alliances are struck.

The battle of wills is real, and some start to falter...

a wobble
missed turn
cramping thigh

... and then quit, retire early.

The time cut, once ticking far off, barely toc, starts to pound for those who persist...

... before becoming blaring bells of hell.

I live for that...

... to rage against the final miles.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/custom-name-raceday-wallet

Building the resolve to press on starts months, even years prior to the big day.  For there is a lot of training, but there is also a hardening of the mind that is necessary.

This was so powerful for me 3 years ago in my quest to break my PR.

Got a Big Insane Goal?

Make yourself a reminder wallet, all you have to do is type in your goal... we'll take care of getting you a badass reminder tool...

... oh, and you'll have to train, too... can't do that for you.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-wallets/products/custom-name-raceday-wallet

---

162.9
7 hrs 
5 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

THEY SAY YOUTH IS WASTED ON THE YOUNG, I'm a strong maybe on that premise.  A few of us are aging up this year and there is one thing for sure...

... racers love getting older.

There is this sense of things getting easier, racing oldsters, etc.

So, why don't you sit down for a moment and let The Old Diesel settle this once and for all.

First, there is a grain of truth of it getting easier.  It's true for about one race, maybe a few, definitely not an entire season.

Why?

Well, you've aged up.  You're no longer the oldish racer being pushed by kids, you're now the kid.  Being challenged by the kids keeps you on your A game.  When you age up, you're the kid and the challenge will still be there...

... but, it's somehow less.

Second, the older we get the more we run into the professional amateurs.  These are the blessed who have figure out their finances.  These are the emptynesters who have sent their birdies off into the world to live their own lives.  

They have money and time, possible more money and time than they ever dreamed of...

... this is their new outlet.

Third, and this might be the most evil of all the hope dashing spears coming your way, these are the survivors.  

Their bodies are still in great shape and they are well acquainted with what is physically possible.  Plus, their wiley coyotes...

... with more ways than you can imagine to do you in.

That's the bad news.

Here's the good news...

... you can be the crafty master of your domain, too!

Lots of people do it...

... getting better each year, performing at the highest levels.

How do they do it?

Two have 2 things:

• Friends who are younger than they are
• A mission to accomplish

I'm much more inspired by people who are great at what they do and continue to contribute to society well beyond the norm...

... their legacy eclipses those who pull the plug early.

That's why I'm so passionate about RaceDay Ready™...

... my legacy.

The details are here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

163.6
7.5 hrs 
15 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eyyoaWjVXYM

I KNEW I WOULD HAVE TO GIVE UP CRIT RACING.  I loved it, was good at it, but there was something about leaning shouldertoshoulder into a tight turn at 30 mph...

... that brought out the worst in me.

I'm not proud of that.

Fortunately, I found mountain biking and was able to keep some fitness as well as get out into nature...

... a perfect marriage of my BMXy youth with the road's power and endurance.

This marriage would eventually give birth to 2 National Championships on the MTB, which was a lot of fun and very gratifying at the time.

But, there is another combination I'm even more stoke about.

After I designed the RaceDay Bag™, I began production in China.  It was cheaper.  Duh!...

... but, cheaper isn't always better.

And rarely, best.

So, I figured out how to make the bags ourselves in the proverbial backyard.  They were better.  Better materials and better workmanship...

... then we had the really cool breakthrough, which is powering us right by all our competition.

I figured out how to make everything on demand, which meant we could make custom bags one at a time.

Teams as small as 1 (one), could order customdesigned product.

From bags it was easy to go to ponchos to socks to gloves...

... right on up to amazing jerseys and bibs and jackets etc.

Now, we import all these incredible fabrics from Italy to make super high quality apparel...

... one at a time, just for you.

So, I'm going to make you this insane offer.  I'll design for you a custom ________ (your choice) for Free.  We normally charge $50 just for the designs.

All you have to do is email me personally, and we'll get started.  My address is todd@pedalindustries.com.

Can be for anything we make:  bags, jerseys, bibs, gloves, socks, 10x10 pop up canopies, etc.  

Remember, email me within 48 hours.  

XOXO,

todd (@pedalindustries.com)

---

163.6
7.5 hrs 
15 Pull Ups + 30 Power PushUps + 15 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

I GOT A HOT DATE WEDNESDAY WITH AN OLD LOVER.  Some of my friends are happy about it, most don't think I'm ready to face her again.  I think they might be right...

... but, you know how love is.

We all loved her at one point last summer, she's that hot!

Those warm summer nights...

heartrate jumpy with anticipation
favorite kit looking just so
then the hardbreathing
gasps of pleasure
and pain

... our lover's nickname?

HOT LAPS.

Oh Boy! does she have a bad reputation...

... for ruining riders and racers,
boys and girls,
confidence,
swagger.

Join us if you're local: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

If not, start your own.

• Begin on time
• Do a parade lap so everybody knows the course
• Race laps should be 20ish minutes X 3 laps.
• Bonus, if you can make a loop where others can be seen
• Double bonus, for different loops each week.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

Since the summer race/ride season is fast approaching, I'm going to keep this promotion going a few more days.

 

Use promo code: iSEEu

Saves you 20% on changing ponchos.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

---

164.5 (oops)
8 hrs (terrible night)
10 Pull Ups + 40 Power PushUps + 25 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
45 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

WHAT IS THE PERFECT RACE?  Is it winning?  Returning unscathed? An insane adventure?  A performance breakthrough?...

... could be all of the above.

Or none.

For me, it's perfect execution of my plan.

Result recognition is a sideshow.

The plan has 3 parts.

Preparation

• Nutrition
• Recovery
• Time in the saddle
• Strength training
• Race Weight
• Bike Set Up

The Race

• Travel
• Accommodations
• Warm Up
• Racing

Review and Repeat

Sure we want the race to go well, but when it comes to reviewing our performance, it's critical to analyze all 10 aspects of what went into hitting the finish line as fast as possible.

We can always do better,
10 times better.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

---

164
8 hrs (terrible night)
6 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 10 Heavy Squats 
30 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

 

IT WAS A ROUGH ONE TODAY.  While I led my class up the long opening climb and down the riproaring singletrack.  It didn't last forever...

... and I was left questioning my identity.

Not because my legs felt dead, not because I was beaten by better men.  But, because I just didn't have it.

I didn't have what it takes to ride all out at a legit mountain bike race.

Halfway through I started to day dream, and tire out.

It can happen out here.

The terrain is gorgeous and the views expansive.  Due to the very twisty course you never really see anybody unless you're right on their wheel.  I found myself digging the vibe of nature...

... rather than blasting every berm.

And, just like that the fellas passed me and disappeared.

Which left me time to consider what kind of a racer I am at this point:

• Roadie
• MTBr
• Graveler

I'm not even sure because I'm spending 1-2 days each week on each bike.

Am I a triathlete then?  

Say it ain't so!

After a pleasant rest of the day, talking to friends.  Rehashing it all.   Hatching plans for the next one I had an interesting conversation with Nic Beeschan.

Nic beat everybody today, by a lot.

He's a pro.
Lives in a small mountain community.
He only rides MTB.

And there it was.

To perform at my very best, to get those last percentages of performance, I'm going to have to specialize, go back to my roots...

... it's pretty clear.

If you don't have "it",
you've got to get "it".

Or, maybe I should stop identifying as a 20y/o punk...

... and go visit my grandson?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

No, I don't have pics of what I'm about to share, you'll have to take my word.

There we were, chatting and eating some lunch and the ladies across the way roll in after their race.

Next thing we all know, much to our disbelief said ladies strip and change.

To each their own, but maybe they need to own a changing poncho?

Use promo code: iSEEu

Saves you 20% on changing ponchos, this weekend only.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/changing-ponchos

---

162.9
5.5 hrs (terrible night)
0 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
0 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

CAN YOU IMAGINE BEING CHRIS FROOME RIGHT NOW?  Going years without a result.  Continuing to train your lycraclad buns off...

... and getting dropped again and again and again.

Of course you can.

We've all been there, some of us are there right now, and some of us, like Froome, may never get beyond that point of racing.

Racing is hard.

Everybody is at their best,
Everybody wants to win...

... everybody thinks they're a racer until they go months or years without a recognizable result.

And that's the difference between racers and riders.

Racers race.
Riders ride.

At this point, I'm more impressed with Froome than ever.  That's a low bar.  I was never a Froome fanboy.  He was too humblebraggie, too awkward in his style, too robotic, and he fell off his bike too damn much...

... but, I love racers.

Especially those that keep lining up, regardless the odds.

When the world doesn't notice our struggles,
and battles and trials,
when the shyte hits the fan
and nothing is going right..

... racers keep racing.

No recognition needed.

Race on.

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

Got this from one of the racers using the RaceDay Ready™ training protocol.

Have you checked it out?

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

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162.9
7.5 hrs
2 Pull Ups + 0 Power PushUps + 0 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
80 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

SOME OF US ARE HAPPY TO BE RIDING, others are driven.  Today, I ran into two of my pals.  Each has huge, demanding events coming up this spring and summer.  One is supremely confident...

... the other has a long way to go.

The one who is confident is doing BWR San Diego, a hellacious test of endurance and bike handling skill.

He's been training all winter. 

When I saw him today he was on his race bike, a gravel rig. High up on the single tracks above our little town...

... ripping.

You ready?

Oh, yeah.  All the dudes are scared.  They know I'm coming for them.

We should all feel this sure of our selves before such a race.  

But, it takes a lot work.

Hard work.

Prepration.

The less confident of my pals called me up.

I got into Leadville.

Are you training?

No, I just got over Covid - again.

Dang.

Yeah, but I'm ready to go.

Ok.

You've done it a bunch, I want you to train me and get me ready.

You're sure you're healed and ready for this.

For sure, I'm in.

Is he really ready for this?

I dunno, but we're gonna find out real quick if he's just riding it.

To be honest, I'm not sure there's a right way to do it.  Both have their merits.

I only know my way, set an impossible goal and do everything possible...

... to make it happen.

If you're driven like us, check this out:

https://pedalindustries.com/pages/get-raceday-ready-now

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162.4
7 hrs
12 Pull Ups + 20 Power PushUps + 12 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™

UNLESS YOU HAVE DONE A LOT OF SAILING, you really have a limited understanding of the wind.  Sailors learn to see it, feel it, hear it, taste it...

... and have a distinct advantage when road racing.

At one time, I was consumed with sailing.  

The family catamaran turned into an obsession with Hobie Cats, which morphed into windsurfing...

... to eventually teaching windsurfing to pay for school.

Knowing the wind is everything in sailing.

Here's what you need to know when it comes to riding bikes:

• The wind direction changes based on how fast you are moving.
• A breakaway with a tailwind is more likely to succeed than one with a headwind because the draft is effectively neutralized with a strong enough wind.
• With speed, a side wind becomes a headwind.
• When drafting, move around behind the rider in front and find the sweet spot, where the wind is marginalized.
• A proper pace line will have the fast side leeward (protected by the wind) and the pulling off side windward (taking the wind).
• The larger the group, the shorter the time spent on the front.
• It's usually easier to be in the rotation than trying to hang onto the back of the group.

The biggest of those is the first.  

In a group, or alone, the faster you are moving the more the wind will hit you in the face.  
It's not so much that the wind is changing directions as much as the pace of the riding has changed significantly.

Second, be aware of attacks with a tailwind.  
They are hardashell to bring back.

Crafty racers will look at the predicted wind on a weather app the day before a race.  
What part of the course will the group provide shelter?
Where might an attack happen?
And check it again pre-race.

Devilish racers looking to win, will "put the race in the gutter".  
This means if the wind is coming from the left they will race as far right as possible so there is little to no draft to be had behind them.

Racers who know what their doing...

... ride like the wind.

https://music.apple.com/us/album/ride-like-the-wind/527320131?i=527320136

Some months are windier than others.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

Sea Otter is coming up for me.

I've had some hellawindy days on the circuit race there.  Gonna do it again, and then hit the endurance MTB the next day.

All prepping for the ridiculous sub-8 Leadville quest.

You do have your RaceDay Calendar™, right?

Ships free.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars™

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161.9
8 hrs
6 Pull Ups + 10 Power PushUps + 6 Heavy Squats 
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

Get RaceDay Ready™