Y'ALL REMEMBER WHEN I WAS CROSSTRAINING LAST WEEK AND SMASHED MY NOSE INTO THE PADDLEBOARD... BLOOD EVERYWHERE?  Well, apparently my nose is crooked now.  Probably an upgrade...

... upgrades are so underrated.

I know that's true because most upgrades are forced upon us. Like the new phone I had to get because the old one went swimming in said bloody water.

Suddenly, and this is why I state with certainty, I've got a device with blazing speed...

... I can do everything faster...

... and I'm thinking what the helk was I waiting for?

Speed matters when you're trying to get shyte done.  Whether it's work or pleasure or haulingass on yer two-wheeler...

... an effortless speed gain is...

... well, it seems magical.

You know what else is magical?

Taking care of our stuff.

In fact, some gear can actually get better.

Yep.

Take a new chain, for example.  Covered in factory grease, meant to protect for years.  That grease is thick...

... and slow.

So strip it and put on some really fast lube.

Personally, I love wax lubes. Misnomer?  They are the best for significantly reducing drag, and keeping drivetrain spiffy...

... clean and fast always wins the day.

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These are my two favorites... and yes, the price indicates which one is bestest and most fasterelli.

.  

Use promo code: UPGRADE

Enter when you check out.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

---

ARE YOU ENJOYING THE GAME?  I've heard this question asked of Tadej several times.  I like it.  Because, while he is the best of the rest, he is still a kid.  A true babyface.  And, he looks like he's having fun...

... for us it should always be fun.

Yesterday someone commented on a post saying how happy he was now that he wasn't racing. It was a "relief to be rid all the stress and energy put into chasing ego driven rewards"...

... to which I could only respond, Sounds like you were racing for the wrong reasons.  I meant it with love.

Everybody has to make their own decision on what's right for them.  How far to push, and why push so far?

For me, keeping Sundays off limits for training, and nearly all racing, is the way to keep it in perspective.  

The license plate above, IDNTRCE, resonates with me. 

It's on a truly badass Mustang. 

Lowered.

Sexy wheels.

With a nasty growling V8, that can peal rubber from here to New York City. 

I'm sure the driver races all over town, every chance she can get...

... she's racing her own race...

... her own game.

It's all a game.

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If things are getting a little too serious maybe it's time for some whimsical socks.

These beauties we developed using a specials EZ Breathe Yarn to create our FastMax compression.

Truly amazing... and check out the dealio below.

Keep this on the downlow, okay?

This is top secret.

If you purchase 2 pair of socks, you get 1 pair free.  

No promo code needed.

Coo-coo, I know.

Have you checked out the PEDALposse?

If won't save you anything additional on the above, but it would save you a helmet full of gold on future orders.

Check it out.

---

NOBODY LIKES TO WAIT AROUND.  In fact, we have a strict policy of starting our rides on time.  Don't be late, we don't wait.  It's the most respectful way to honor each individual's time and keeps the group healthy and growing.  Speaking of healthy and growing... 

... is it any wonder those twigs in France snap?

While it's nigh impossible to not look a little T-Rexish as a committed racer, there is no reason to be completely useless in any other endeavor.  In fact, I'd call it dangerous and reckful...

... because weakness is the fastest way to lose control of the bike.

Which brings me to this weighty matter.

Lift weights.

Get strong and stay strong.

There are maybe a million cyclingspecfic books on the subject, at least 10.

But, can I make a recommendation?

Start with pushups and pullups.  

If you haven't done them for a while, ever?, you're gonna be super impressed...

... with how weak you are.

For pullups, get a bar for the door jam.  They are cheap and easy to install.  For pushups, no equipment or installation required.

I promise you, regularly doing just these two exercises will dramatically improve your cycling and life and get you stoked to show your friends...

... how strong you've become, off the bike.

Bonus points now that it's summer and you want to show everybody your super pro tan lines... you know the clearly defined arm and leg tan lines.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/cinturato%E2%84%A2-gravel-h

Speaking of bonus points, these are the tires I raced on last weekend.  They are super fast in all conditions.  Plenty of traction climbing and descending.  

Their only weakness is in corners where it can break loose a little, but because there is plenty of tread once it gets leaned over.  So, far, they have always hooked up for me.

How fast?

Fast enough for me to snag 13th quickest time on the Col de Crush descent.

In fact, I'm loving all the Pirelli tires I've tested and have completed converted over.

On the road, I absolutely dig they way these tires feel.  Super supple ride.  Very fast as well.

You probably have a favorite tire you favor and trust... if you're open to a change, I can't recommend these enough.

Use promo code: PIRELLI

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/hypervolt-w-bluetooth

---

WELL, TODAY WAS INTERESTING.  Like a fool I showed up for the A loop instead of the B.  My legs felt terrible last night, vs only rotten on the way over.  As we rolled out, Chris said I'm sitting in today...

... that was my plan, too.

But, it didn't work out so hot for me.  

Ya see, there are two kinds of wheelsuckery.

Sitting In and Hanging On.

Sitting In is done by someone who could easily grind out some power if they wanted.  While Chris was sitting in, he pulled the train right be me and I was nearly ejected.

Hanging On looks a lot like Sitting In, but it's quite different.  Hanging on is done by someone who is on the edge being popped off and left behind...

... this is what I was doing.

In fact, I was doing it so good I was left behind.  Posting my slowest time ever up The Wall, riding alone to the finish, and joyfully spinning home in solitude.

I say joyful because it was a beautiful morning, starting with a spectacular sunrise.  The weather nice and balmy.  Once I came to terms with the need to Shut 'er down, I set my sites on finding Surfergirl...

... maybe I should have gone to the beach today, too?

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I'll hitting the legs for at least 20 minutes tonight with this very secret weapon.

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---

DID YOU SEE WHAT BAUKE DID AT THE TOUR?  I'll tell ya, it was dern impressive.  He broke away with 40k to go, and held a 1 minutish gap all the way in for the victory.  But, what I found comforting and astounding was...

... he did so without any type of computer on his bicycle.

Just on feel, baby!  Surely, his race director was giving him time checks.

Still, that's rad. 

Right?

In the age of Froomians staring straight down and watching their watts, here is a cat without even an HR monitor.

Riding on feel.

Flip!, I love that.

Don't you? 

Do you ever do that?

On hour or shorter races - crits and XC - I often do just that.  Because either I can ride with the big cats or I can't.  It's freeing, tbh, allowing me to focus on the actual racing.  I'm more aware of the situation...

... and better able to sense the flow of the action.

Occasionally, I'll even tuck it away on longer road races.  Sometimes at the start, and others during the final miles.

Personally, I'm not a breakaway guy like Bauke...

I am a get dropped guy and persevere guy when it comes to epic distances.  For those times, which are often, I definitely have my computer on.  I prefer to watch my HR...

... I'm old school that way, just not as old school as Mr. Mollema.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/lubes

This, mon ami, is very, very, very new school.

We've been doing quite a bit of testing of various lubes.  This lube from Ceramic Speed is the current champion.

I rode it during the Crusher Saturday with no noticeable degradation in performance.  Then, I took it out again this evening without touching it and it still sounded great.

I'm going to be posting a video in a few days showing the astounding performance of this system. 

We're going to be offering 3 options with the lube. 

• First, the bottle. 

• Second, we'll take your chain and strip it in our sonic cleaner then soak it in acetone then we will professionally prep your chain with the wax.

• Third, we'll supply you with a new chain that has gone through the above process.

If you just need the lube...

... use promo code: MOLLEMA

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Side Note: Dave J asked me what gear set up I ran Saturday.  I ran a 1x, full mullet:  38 and 10-52.

---

I SHALL RETURN.  I contemplated Douglas MacArthur's resolve while listening to the Hardcore History podcast on the way home from the Crusher In The Tushar.  He'd been forced to leave Manilla in defeat, and he vowed to return and liberate the people...

... a bike race is hardly war.

Still, there are parallels from which to learn and this recent installment of the podcast was rich.

When things go wrong people ask a lot of questions.  To that I might add, if you're not asking questions when things go wrong, be prepared for them to go wrong again and again.

How much can a human endure? Isn't this one of the reasons we compete, to find out how much we can endure?  My guess is we aren't even scratching the surface.

Only those who enter the meat grinder know what it's about.  Until you've been on the Col de Crusher, 50 miles from the start, there's just no way to understand the difficulty it presents.

If you find out you don't have the right boat, all the Bushido spirit in the world doesn't make it better.  No comment.

The non-sexy side is logistics and supply.  This is the most compelling reason to return.

•  The aid stations were outstanding.  Well stocked.  Fast in and out.  And plenty of them.  Three cheers for the volunteers who withstood the withering conditions!

•  I left a lot of room for improvement on the logistics.  Altitude prep being number one.  

•  Race specific training.  I did a fair amount of long climbs leading up, but they were all on the MTB.

I asked my friend Emilio why he's raced Crusher multiple times and why he was happy with yesterday's result...

I'm just happy to finish with good energy and power.

That I dig.   

It's the kind of challenge I can get behind.

To have the bravado to proclaim I'll return and subdue all challengers is something I'll leave for the real warriors. 

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There were countless bottles ejected on the course.  Every time it got steep and fast with big washboard bumps there they lie.

Such a shame, all that training and time and energy lost. 

Either you ride on and most likely run out of water or you stop and turn around and get that bottle before another rider or car can squash it.

It's dern near impossible to lose a bottle or time or energy with these Mandible cages from Arundel.

I don't just rely on them to hold the bottles, I count on them to gain time over my competitors

They're that good.

Use promo code: RETURN

... unless you like wasting time and energy and risking dehydration.

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---

TODAY WAS THE WORST DAY I’VE EVER HAD ON A BIKE.  Temps at the bottom of the feared Col de Crusher, as we rolled through deepish sand, indicated 112.  I was actually feeling good there.  75 minutes later...

... at the top it was a different story.

My feet cramped, curling up in my shoes.  My claves cramped.  My quads cramped.  My hammies were good... but my triceps cramped.

I was panting like a dog, the heat and altitude and distance ganging up on me.

I would say I crawled in the last 10 miles.

But, I didn’t.

I refused to get off my bike.

All of the guys and gals I’d been riding with who stopped to stretch or pee or get serious aid at the aid station were never seen again.

The Crusher in the Tushar is a crusher.

If you are ever crazy, brave enough to do it here is my advice.

• Get really comfortable on your gravel bike – position for sure, more importantly comfortable on actual gravel. Loads of riders lose time because their descending is weaksauce.
• Get acclimated to altitude if you can – it’s 10000’ at the top.
• Get your nutrition sorted out.

There is no need to pre-ride the course.  If you do, it is highly likely you will simply stay home, sleep in, and have breakfast with people who care about you!

The Crusher doesn’t care about anybody.

We all suffered today.

Even the regulars posted their worst times ever.

I had friend puking and taking the ride of shame back.  Another just laid down in the middle of the road... for 20 minutes.  Another, in that same 112 degree sand, blacked out and fell over.

Tod, not me I’m a double-D, said you know this will get more fun with time.

Here’s the funny part about that.

At 5pm, Jeff shot me a text.

You got 2^nd.

No, no way.  I almost died.

Look it up.

2 hours after awards I looked it up.  Yep, 2^nd.  Suddenly I’m like What cramps?!

I tracked down Tiffany who is in charge of the awards ceremony and I explained the situation.  Before she could give me any grief, I said...

I’m so sorry.

Why?

Well, I feel it’s disrespectful to skip the awards.  To you and the competitors.  It’s a trend at home and I’m not a fan.

Before you ask, If that’s true double-D, why weren’t you at the ceremony to offer congratulations?

It’s a simple answer.

Today was the worst day I’ve ever had on a bike.

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It could have been worse if my tool bag exploded.  Saw more than one of those spill tools everywhere over the very bumpy course.

But, the mini-raceday bag is very pro.

---

FEW OF US HAVE AN EPIC EVENT IN OUR BACKYARD.  And, if we do, we’re always looking for something new.  The offshoot logistics of getting there can make or break how things go on raceday.  With that in mind...

... I left before sunrise.

The Crusher in the Tushar bike race is in Southern Utah.  For me, it’s a 600-mile road trip.  I had just the spot in mind to hold over Thursday evening...

... Grampa’s cabin.

For years I’ve wanted to bring my gravel bike up here. 

Situated on the east side of Zion National Park, at about 7000’, it’s remote.  With hundreds of miles to explore...

... on gravel roads. 

I hadn’t been to the cabin for at least 10 years and I was looking forward to surfacing up childhood memories.  Plus, my cousins have been doing some renovating which I wanted to check out.

One thing that hadn’t changed is where we hide the key.  The exact same place Grampa was hiding it 50+ years ago. 

The small A/C unit was a welcome site.  It was 95 when I pulled up, and I’m not sure I could have stayed without that modern convenience.

The old wood burning stove I would help Gramma kindle and light is in the corner.  A microwave has taken over.

The hole in a piece of plywood in the outhouse has been upgraded to a composting unit.  Much comfier and fresher.

While we do have running water now, there isn’t a shower. 

This gave me a chance to test out my sunshower.  I hung the thick plastic bag over the steel poles that support shade/rain cover for the cement slab we use when large group cooking.  We are far from the main road, plenty private.

The sounds of modernity travel far up here.  Cars and jets interrupt nature’s songs.

But, the best, the absolute best part of Grampa’s cabin is the total lack of cell and internet service...

... I need a week up here.

This morning I sampled the gravel roads.  Nothing like the fire roads back home.  These roads are meant for traveling.  The bike easily rolled along.  I stretched my legs on a few punchy climbs to open things up.

I felt fast..

... I also felt the altitude. 

Coming from sea level, it’s a challenge to breathe.  I’ll try and work this to my advantage by using the lack of air to keep me from digging too deep tomorrow.

For now, it’s just a day...

... and it's been key to making the long travel fun, along with leaving early and packing all the essential gear...

... a great day to lay low and do final prep on bike and body.

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Being a 4 day trip, I packed my PRO RaceDay Bag™.  I like the extra space for multiple kits and key items I will not race without...

... like PR Lotion.

Use promo code: THEKEY

---

WHAT IF WE WERE SLOW?  Slower.  A lot slower.  New rider slow.  No clue slow.  Yes, what if we woke up tomorrow...

... knowing we could get a whole lot faster?

If you think that would be awesome, I’ve got good news and bad news.

The bad news is you might be a slacker.  Somewhere along the way you started slacking.

Maybe you stopped getting enough sleep and didn’t feel rested enough to pound out some heavy miles. 

Maybe you quit eating like an athlete, put on some pounds, got slower and said yes to the next donut that came your way because Why not? 

Maybe your flock of eagles has turned into a flock of penguins.

The good news is you’re only one race away rectifying the situation and dropping that slacker attitude.

Find a race, any kind of race that inspires you.  Could be a local group ride or USA Cycling Nationals. 

It doesn’t matter.

What matters is picking a race, fixing your mind on a goal, and letting that race and goal dominate your bike riding thoughts.

Slackers settle.

Racers deliver.

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One reasons racers deliver is because the take time to figure out what works.

We like this...

Use promo code: WERFAST 

---

ALL THE HARD WORK IS ABOUT TO PAY OFF.  The van is loaded.  The body is rested.  It's time to head up to the race.  I'm feeling quite fine. Not at all how I felt the last few weeks...

.. which is how I like it. 

Yes, I like to pile on the miles and hard work until 10-14 days out.  How big of a pile?...

... so big I want to quit riding altogether.

To exhaustion.

Then, I back it way down.

It doesn't work for everybody.  But, isn't that what makes racing and epic events so intriguing?...

... figuring out what works for us.

The beauty is there is always a new training concept or product or nutrition to experiment on.

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Something else that works for me...

... I always like to have fresh water bottles for a key race or event.

It's the little things.

If you're bottles are a little worn, 

use promo code ITSTIME

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

---

BECAUSE EVERY DAY IS NOT RACEDAY, FOR ME.  I hear that phrase nearly every day.  At some point, someone will walk in and notice my hat and mid-conversation justify whatever thing they want to slack off on...

... clarifying they aren't racing every day.

Fair enough. 

Nobody is.

I mean those cats racing around France are for three weeks.  But even they aren't racing every day. 

The sprinters scratch and claw over the steep stuff and barely make the cut.

The climbers scamper to the front on a sprint stage only to clear out when it things get feisty.

Some days RaceDay is just doing the bare minimum...

... expending the least amount of energy.

Other days RaceDay means sleeping in and getting a massage...

... recovery is an overlooked superpower.

So, yes, Every Day Is RaceDay.

Don't waste 'em.

They compound.

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Use promo code: YESevery 

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---

THERE ARE A NUMBER OF REASONS TO CROSS TRAIN.  To get stronger is a great reason.  To restore flexibility and range of movement, for sure.  To change things up and freshen our minds.  But, there's another...

... to awaken the beginner's mind.

I was reminded of that today on my paddle board.  Like a rookie, I shoved off in too shallow of water and caught the fin on a rock right as I was mounting the board.

The board stopped.

I did not.

Nor did my nose until it connected squarely with the board...

... and kept gushing for the 45 minutes of paddling.

There were plenty of witnesses.

I could only laugh... what a dork!

Most of us are so committed to this wonderful sport of cycling we suffer all kinds of humiliations and keep going...

• Greasy chain ring tattoo on calf
• Helmet on backwards
• Cut legs shaving
• Bibs on inside out

... it's endless and endlessly entertaining, the things we get so wrong when first starting out.

All I can say is if your cross training do you best to pay attention...

... if you're bringing a friend out for whom cycling will be cross training be prepared to be entertained...

... and offer some first aid, and words of encouragement.

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As proof that good things come from mistakes, the RaceDay Bag™ came about after I'd forgotten to bring my shoes to an important race.

Never again.

Not when every pocket acts as a check list for loading...

... and making it easy to find what we need when it's time to gear up.

Use promo code: NOSEBLEED

This code expires on 7/7/21.

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---

DO YOU HAVE A MAGIC JERSEY?  A jersey that when you put it on gives you added power, charisma and unquestioned leadership?  It doesn't have to be yellow or pink or red...

... just meaning full.

That's exactly the ingredient all the famous Leader jerseys contain.

Meaning.

Context.

History.

The pro who earns one, even for a day,
is reborn. 

Untethered to any previous limitations,
they charge forward. 

Awakened to new possibilities,
they dream big. 

I'm forever fascinated by said metamorphosis.

It's just a jersey.
But, it's not.

We want the same thing for ourselves. 

We have a favorite kit we save for the big, important days.  Or a new one, we're ready to bust out.

We aren't superstitious, we just know it works.  

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It's worked for decades.

The magic is as potent today as it was 80-100 years ago. 

For those that want to be reminded of such timeless greatness we partnered with The Horton Colletion to create this unique bag.  

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---

OUR LOCAL SCENE IS FILLED WITH GIVERS.  Some of the giving is rewarding, some quite the opposite.  Take today.  What a dandy!...

... with full spectrum of giving.

It's the seventh consecutive year of Chris' Creek to Peak.   He gave us a great day with more support than ever.

That kind of giving leads to giving of a different kind.

Giving a beating...

... with 82 miles, 10,000' of vert, all of us finished on empty.

Giving shyte...

... Jorge fruitlessly trying to get in my head as we gave our all up the biggest climb.

Giving poor advice...

... with prizes for 4 different climbs there was plenty of terrible advice being thrown about.   (You should go early.  Don't drink, it's too hot.  You want those tires hard as rocks.)

Giving inspiration...

... as riders who've been destroyed on previous attempts flew up and down the big mountain.

Giving blood...

... nothing terrible, but there will be wounds to clean tonight.

The best part of a giving day like this is giving all a chance to see where their fitness is as we prep for big summer goals like BWR, Tahoe and Leadville.

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The recovery drink I served myself was muy delicioso. 

Chocolate, with ice cubes.

Filling.

Use promo code GIVINGRIDE to save 10% on everything available on this link...

... 

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---

WELL, I'M SURE YOU WILL NEVER DO THIS.  Right?  About 7 weeks ago, due to a large family event, I caved and ate very unatletically.  This choice, which seemed harmless and appropriate at the time,  activated my inner sugar devil..

... it's been hell ever since.

Finally, a few days ago, I said to hades with that, I'm an athlete.

With family again in town this week, I prepared for sturdy test of my resolve.

Fortunately, my bro-in-law came to the rescue with this gem when his sister, who at times has an eery control over my selfcontrol, brought home an assortment San Clemente's finest donuts...

... I love 'em, but they might kill me.

That's powerful stuff, right up there with...

... No thanks, I'm an athlete.

I was reminded of all this later in the day when replacing my MTB's rear tire for tomorrow's ridiculous social ride from the ocean to the 5600' summit of Saddleback.

Take a look at that Stanimal up there.

Has to be the largest ever caught.

Creepy, right?

That monster was rolling around inside my wheel waiting to be release and go for my jugular.  Luckily our HQ is outfitted with a Stanimal Sensing and Suppression System.  The beast was subdued, slayed and disposed of.

Can't wait to rip it up on the new Conti RaceKing.

All set up with new sealant.

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I always have one of these in my travel kit.

I'd do a promo code here, but they're only 4 bucks.

---

DRIFTING THROUGH A TURN CAN BE HARROWING.  Will the tires hook up and send us zooming on our way or will they give in to the pressure sending us flat on our backs or worse?  I was thinking those very thoughts last week...

... soon I was on my arse.

Some cat was brave enough to climb up a steep single track 99.9% of people fly down.  

I found him mid-turn, middle of the trail, and had no choice but to change trajectory...

... and that was just too much for my little ol' treads.

Such is the life of a drifter.

Risky.

Unsure.

Fraught with danger.

There's no place for fear. 

There is only room for faith things will work out, and that's where most riders go wrong...

... faithless, they look straight down instead of far down the trail.

Had I been looking straight down we would have collided, for sure.  Instead, a controlled skid put me down gently with only some extra dust to show for it.

Some old dude said it best...

... where there is no vision, the people parish.

Why just today I asked my friend if he was ready for Saturday's big Creek To Peak.  He'd been training for the last year to redeem his previous poor showing.

You ready?

Yes.

See ya 6 then.

Not gonna make it.

What?

Yeah, forgot to put it on my calendar and realized we are out of town this weekend.

That's 6 months of prep.

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The year is half over, the deal below is awesome.

Here's the dealio, racing is back on the calendar and the year is half over.

So use this promo code to save 50% - DEDICATED

While supplies last.

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GENERATION PEACH FUZZ HAVE TAKEN OVER THE PELOTON AT THE TDF.  Tade, 22.  Jonas, 25. Mathieu, 26.  All killed the TT today.  These guys look like babies.  And, the way Matieu kept the yellow jersey...

... was pure child's play.

Up until the last two turns it was a dead heat.  In fact, I think most thought Tade was going to take over the yellow.  

But, go back and watch those final turns.

Matieu railed 'em.

Nobody looked as fast, powerful and confident.

How'd he do it?

He's a great bike handler.  Great!

Over and over the commentators will say Oh rider X came up mountain biking, he's a great bike handler.  And it's true.  Mountain bikers are great bike handlers.  I think it's because they play around with things more.

For example, MTBrs will go over and over different ways to enter corners...

lay it over?
heavy on the front end?
lock up the rear and slide in?
lower PSI?
brake through turn or brake before and coast through?

... a million options and the mountain bikers are playing with them all the time.

I'm going off on a tangent here, but...

... MTB riders never point stuff out and consequently don't expect things to be pointed out.  They look after themselves.

I guess my point is this...

... if you're not feeling superconfident with your skills play around a little more.

Road or dirt, go find a corner and take it over and over again.  Different angles of entry, different braking points, different air pressures, etc.

It's worth it.

You'll be faster and have more fun...

... like a child.

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

This pressure checker is easy to chuck in your back pocket.

Pump those tires up to what you consider the high side and go take some turns.  Then drop a few pounds and do it again.

Figure out what works.

Record your results.

Use promo code: PEACHFUZZ

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

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A COUPLE OF WINTERS BACK THE GREAT MARK CAVENDISH WAS ON A LOCAL TRAINING RIDE.  Like a fool, I thought surely I could climb with this biggish sprinter who was considered past his prime...

... how wrong I was.

The whole world has been wrong about Cav and there are  2 reasons he took the V today at TdF.

Consider this and you may consider shedding some tears yourself, I certainly did - but I'm a softy.

You see, Cav' had been written off. 

Tossed on the heap of discarded human engines deemed no longer worthy to be powering carbon super bikes.  Few thought he'd even be riding professionally this year, or ever.

But, things aren't always as they seem.

First, Patrick Lefevere who runs the best sprinting team in the sport, gave him a chance.  Patrick believed in Cav'.  This wasn't a charity hire or promotional stunt, as many believed...

... If I thought Mark Cavendish was done, I would not have taken him back.

Second, with the faith of Lefevere, the best leadout train in the business cued up and delivered Mark to the point where he could prove he still has what it takes to win.

At one time or another, if we've lived any kind of life going for any kind of greatness, we've all been doubted.  Even discarded.  We've wanted to crawl in a hole and disappear.

So, yeah, I get those tears Mark...

... To have someone say I believe in you, to earn the respect of a great team, to deliver once again when all said Impossible...

... that, brother, is worthy of a flood of emotion.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

The question, of course, is are you going to treat yourself to a massage after a big day in the saddle like Mark?

I am, almost every night these days.

Because it's easy and convenient.

Use promo code CAV to save $30.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

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I HAD LUNCH WITH JOE FRIEL JUST AFTER HE FINISHED HIS BOOK, FAST AFTER 50.  He was excited about the results of his year long quest to learn what it takes to be fast after 50...

... and why not, he was fast and turning 70!

But here's the really terrible awful news from Joe.

The main reason people slow down after 50,

Reason numero uno,

#1,

Is they get lazy,
the fire goes out.

If you're there.  Don't fret.  It happens.

Get your buns back on the bike, pick an event and get registered.

And if you want to turbocharge that, click here, yes here.

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YOU KNOW BALANCE IS JUST A LOAD OF DOODOO.  We don't need more balance.  In fact, the more balanced we are the slower we go.  That's right...

... out of balance is the key to speed.

Want proof?

Here's my story.

I've been riding my MTB more and more getting ready for the Leadville Stage Race.  Every time I ride, I get a little more in tune with that bike.  The harder I push, the more I know the bike's limitations.

If I was more in balance, riding other bikes more or crosstraining more or et al ...

... my performance would be worse if I was more in balance.

For example, I've been experimenting a ton with the dropper post and finding when it's steep it's faster to drop the saddle and tuck instead of pedaling whenever possible..  Cornering, even nontechnical terrain, is faster dropped, less of a need to pedal out of the corners because I'm exiting faster.

The is compounded with the much lower tire pressures I've been testing.  Significantly increased traction climbing and cornering.

None of this would be learned or incorporated if I was more in balance.

There's a time for balance for sure...

... just not when we're striving for exceptional results.

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

Some of the sacrifices we make when out of balance is riding during the early and late hours of day.

Always good to run some lights for that.

I run the commuter combo when it's truly dark and the wrap-arounds on all road rides all the time.

Use promo code:  NOBALANCE

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

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WATCHING THE LEAD RIDERS ESCAPE UP THE ROAD WAS PAINFUL.  This should not be happening 15 minutes into the first climb.  But it was and it was all my fault...

... because I'd done something I'd never intentionally do the day before a huge race.

The result was about 4 hours of sleep, and I was paying for it early.  

What I actually did is unimportant. What is important is to remember not to adjust the settings on anything in life the day/week before a big race. 

Everything should be on autopilot by that point. 

Nothing new.

That said, if you're prepped properly autopilot should still kick in on raceday even if the routine is jumbled...

... which is what eventually happened.

First, I marked the time gap.

As the group wound across the mountain above, I noted how long it took me to get to the last place I saw them.  After about 30 minutes, the gap steadied.  I was still behind, but I had hope.

Second, I stayed on top of my hydration and nutrition.

It so easy to panic and skip fueling our bodies in an effort to make up time.  Instead, I made a concerted effort to stay ahead of any caloric or liquid needs.

Third, I relaxed.

There was nothing to do but stay the course and settling in permitted my mind to stay clear and fresh.

When I finally got to the terrain that suits me best, I was able to make up some lost time and finish closer than I'd ever hoped when that early gap opened 4 hours earlier.

Shizz always gonna happen, and sometimes the night before a big race.  So when it does, get it handled and get up and stick to the training plan...

... which is the point of having a plan.

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

I hope you're planning a big ride for the 4th... 

... if you're looking for something snappy, here it is.

These are in stock, and amazing.

Superlight gloves, and socks with FastMax Compression and EZ Breathe yarns.

ONE OF THE FUNNIEST THINGS I HEAR THESE DAYS IS You should ride with my friend.  I also like to watch college football, but nobody is saying You should watch with my friend. You know the difference right?...

... they think we're weird.

Of course, we know I'm much more likely to enjoy watching a game with their friend than I am doing for a ride.  You know why right?...

... I'm dedicated to excellence on the bike,
and I'm a casual fan of football.

Tomorrow I'll wake up at 5ish.  Drive to meet some of the PEDALposse for what most would consider an insane ride - 50 miles. 7000' of vert, under 5 hours...

... and do it like it's nothing.

It's not weird to be dedicated,
but it sure separates the casual
from those who will stop at nothing.

Those are my kinda friends.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such

I've never met a passionate athlete that didn't have a dedicated calendar with their...

A races,
B races,
Training blocks,
and vacations

.... clearly marked.

The year is half over, the deal below is awesome.

Here's the dealio, racing is back on the calendar and the year is half over.

So use this promo code to save 50% - DEDICATED

While supplies last

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such

NEAR THE END OF A RIDE ON A DAY NEAR THE END OF THE WEEK, I got the near the feeling of what it might feel like to be a pro.  This came after definitely not feeling pro because the wind had been in my face for over an hour...

... I was exhausted.

Now the steady West wind joined me from behind.

It felt good.

Effortless.

I leaned over, resting my forearms on the top of my bars forming a virtual aero bar.  My cadence was metronome-like. 

25 mph, 110 bpm.

I thought,
This must be how the pros feel all the time, at least it's how they look.  Easy, graceful and fast...

... sometimes a change in direction is all we need.

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

Isn't that what our country was founded on?  

Isn't that why people immigrate here?

Isn't the freedom to change course awesome?

These are in stock, and amazing.

Superlight gloves, and socks with FastMax Compression and EZ Breathe yarns.

IT WAS NEVER MORE EVIDENT THAN THIS EVENING'S HOT LAPS.  The rotating cast of speedsters that showed up tonight hit the first lap hard.  PR and KOM hard.  My advantage of knowing the trail was soon erased.  I was reminded of the Japanese proverb...

... beginning is easy, continuing is hard.

None of us finished within a minute of each other.  But, we kept charging all four laps.  All finished huffing, puffing and blown.

That's hard.

But, we keep charging because some cats will...

get discouraged and ease up,

have a mechanical and quit,

forget to eat and bonk

crash and lose time...

... we know continuing is hard, and that's why we do it because it works.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

You know what else works for recovery is this mix from Skratch... but, what I love about is how filling and satiating it is post ride.

I mix it before, so all I have to do is grab the bottle and chug...

... and bam, I'm full and not wanting to devour a pizza.

Use promo code: CONTINUE

It works on all products on this link 

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

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Have you checked out our mission? Click Here.

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IT WAS A FAST MORNING.  I left 8 minutes late to get to the start of the ride.  The fellas were frisky, catching the B's and their 5 minute head start, within 22 minutes.  After all that, we smashed it coming home....

... which reminded me of the great Greg LeMond's statement.

It never gets easy, we just go faster.

Which is mostly true.  Not totally true, because when we put in the work...

What was once hard is easy...
... what was once fast is slow.

Put in the work.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery/products/amp-pr-lotion 

Avoid some of the pain with PR Lotion.  Trust me, it's magic.

Use promo code: EASIER

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery/products/amp-pr-lotion 

---

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YOU'RE IN PRETTY DERN GOOD SHAPE ON ANY RIDE AS LONG AS YOU'VE GOT A $20 ON YA.  Could be in your wallet, or you saddle bag.  That's the problem... 

... it could be there.

But, what if you forget the wallet?  What if you forget to load your saddle bag?

No Jackson, no snackin'.

No bueno.

What's the solution?

I'll tell ya, as long as ya promise not to tell another soul. 

Deal?

Pop off your bar end, slide in a crisp one...

... just be sure part of it is pressed under the cap.

There ya go.

Handlebar Money.

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

Of course, most people skip the wallet because it's way too big which is why we make the amazing RaceDay Wallet.

• It's light
• Thin
• And the innertube it's made from is so grippy on your jersey it's impossible to fall out... really.

Use promo code: HANDLEBARMONEY

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

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ON A LAZY SUNDAY MORNING I saw giants taking powerful swings at each other.  Not out the window, but on a piece of glass I held in my hand.  Not within 100 miles, but on another continent.  Not actual giants...

... but the best racers in Spain.

I don't know how anybody could possibly be riveted to this like I am...

... without personally having felt debilitating effects of the wind increasing as you get dropped from a winning break.

That's drama.

And pain.

Shame.

We get it because most days we aren't on the sidelines...
... we're in the saddle.

We are doers, 
not viewers only.

It's a new week, let's get after it.

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light?variant=31219956940932

Even on the longest day of the year, long after the sun has risen, I'll mount up with my blinkies making me extra visible.

I love the Knogs because the offer 330 degrees of visibility when used in tandem.

And their lightweight.

And aero.

The code is DOERS

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light?variant=31219956940932

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SOMETIMES YA GOTTA RIDE TWICE.  An early one to get it done, and a later one just for fun.  Like today.  First, a quicky, hitting it hard on the local gravel climbs for 90 min.  Then the kids arrived for a visit...

... and gave me a gift money will never buy.

A social ride.

A real one.

Honest.

Here are the signs of an actual social ride vs the usual hooliganistic hijinks of It's just a social ride.

Finally get out the door around 10, after searching through the kit basket to get the new son-in-law something matchymatchy...
... vs the planned roll at 8, don't be late.

Load up mostly borrowed bikes so everyone can ride...
... vs each rider having their own raceready steed with whom they are one.

1/2 mile into the ride the first of many stops for catching up and laughter...
... vs our usual don't get dropped or you'll be alone policy.

After 67 minutes of playing around on the same fun loop with berms and jumps and other fun stuff we hit In-N-Out for burgers, fries and drinks...
... vs 4-5 hours attacking and coughing up lungs and limping home to collapse into a coma.

Being social is always fun on bikes...

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt

... because even on the fake ones where we're killing each other there is always time to talk and catch up.  

Either on the warm up or cool down.

Many a lifelong friendship has sprouted from such rides.

Kinda makes ya wonder what the world would be like if we all rode alongside each other for a few miles.

Yes, this is one of our original designs and comes with matching sticker to put on your bumper or trailer or your bathroom mirror.

Let's get the message out!  

Purchase 2 of these shirts and second one is free.

Use promo code:  RYB

Code expires Monday.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt

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ONE OF THE HARDEST SKILLS TO TEACH IS HOW TO HOLD THE BARS.  Some new riders are gripping like they're on a roller coaster that might launch off the rails at any moment.  Others, lazy and loose.  One will prematurely tucker ya out...

... the other?... can end very badly.

I once heard it explained as like riding a galloping horse, the reigns are flying and flapping yet they are also tight and firm in one's grasp.

That's a good visual.

 If you're on the road it's not quite as obvious until a direct hit with a pothole or something like it.  The more dirt gets the equation the more imperative it is to practice good bar gripping.

You know what else helps?

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

Our superlight full-finger gloves.

I ride 'em road or dirt.

Always.

Supple leather palm, very ventilated top,

Without too much effort you could poke around on the site and find this whopper of an offer.

Place an order for Gloves and Socks and use promo code: BuyGlovesGetSocks

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

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MAYBE THAT'S THE APPEAL OF GRAVEL RIDING? It's just totally wrong in so many ways.  It's a road bike that is much slower than a mountain bike on real trails.  And, a mountain bike that is pig on smooth dirt and pavement...

... a true jack of all trades and master of none.

The notsoobvious thing about such a bike is that by riding one there is a lot of mastery to be gained.

Riding with the group on a gravel bike with fattish tires will only improve our power. 
Likewise letting it rip on fast and loose dirt roads increase our bike handing ability. 
Looking to uncover the lost art of picking a clean line over rough terrain there's nothing better than skinny knobbies and zero suspension to sharpen the skills.

So, when the Stravaverse questioned...

... Single track on a gravel bike?

I could only reply...

... Yes. Don't judge me.

 As I get closer to the the feared and terrible Crusher in the Tuschar, I'm starting to ride the gravel bike more and more...

... trying to master the jack of all bikes.

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

One thing that will make that trip a lot easier is packing all my gear like a pro with a RaceDay Bag™.

When I see people still using dome duffle bags and rifling through all their shtuff...

... I just have to laugh.  Such a waste of energy and time.

The bags are never on sale... we make them right here in CA for racers just like you.

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

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BP ASKED THIS POIGNANT QUESTION ON LAP 2 OF 4 THIS EVENINGS HOT LAPS.  Why are we doing to more laps?  TBH, sometimes I think of my extended family who are disabled for various reasons.  The assortment of canes and walkers assisting their courageous efforts...

... some have had these challenges since childhood.

My answer to my young padawan?  I could have quipped a sassy retort if I wasn't breathing so dern hard.  It went like this...

Why are we doing 2 more laps?

Because... we... can.

Upon return I uploaded and entered the Stravaverse and what did I discover to my surprise and delight?  A PR on the 4th lap, actually a bigboy #2 cup, which reminded me of the earlier conversation and what I should have said...

Why are we doing 2 more laps?

Because... we... can... get faster!

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

Which is why once we've taken care of our responsibilities we gotta ride.

If you've never tried one of our t's I promise you they are soft and get softer the more you wear them.  

This design in nearly sold out and I'd like to make room for a new design so here's the dealio...

Use promo code: GOTTARIDE

... and when you buy 1 Gotta Ride shirt, the 2nd Gotta Ride shirt is free.

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

---

IT'S CHRISTMAS TIME, kind of.  Youthful energy is percolating on every ride.  Cats are pumped to stretch their legs.  Weight is down, miles are up, and bikes tuned... 

... and the spirt of giving abounds!

Yep, every boy and girl is ready to give their crew the gift of pain!  

Ain't it great?

Why just today The Old Diesel heard...

Todd, I'm down 7 pounds.

Wow... I can tell.

Yeah, I'm gonna drop 7 more.

Well... better get your buns on the A loop next week so we can see what ya got for us!

I mean bro can't just tease us with pretty wrapping and a bow...

... that ain't right.

Am I right?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

So, if you're feeling the giving spirit this summer make sure you recover... because everybody knows giving is better than receiving.

The Hypervolt is pure magic as far as I'm concerned.  Plug it in and massage the pain away.  Legit.

Yes, PR Lotion has 2 uses... TWO!  Great for giving the gift of pain and excellent for post giving.

And yeah, what's better giving a bunch presents than a strong drink... for recovery?!  Skratch is that.

This code will save you $50 when your purchase all 3.

The code is REKUVRY

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery

---

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WHEREVER YOU STAND, you have to consider this observation by General Schwarzkopf..  Shiny shoes save lives... because shiny shoes are indicative of discipline.  But, we don't have drill sergeants nor do most of have coaches.  We have something much better...

... Passion.

Nobody is telling us to get up at the crack o'dawn and ride.

Ha!

Usually just the opposite.

They don't get us. 

Don't get the magical elixir that is a crisp morning breeze.

Our shoes may be occasionally dusty...

... but our minds are always clear, our lungs strong.

Bring it!

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

Speaking of elixirs and shiny stuff... is there anything worse than having your full water bottle launch out its cage?

Yes, but losing a bottle can be really bad in a race situation.

I've been racing these cages for 8 years. 

The same cages, taking them from bike to bike. 

Nothing - NOTHING - holds a bottle like the Mandible. 

If you're racing the bumpy stuff, this is the only cage to get.. Not because it's crazylight, because it works.

Use promo code: SHINY

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

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WHETHER WE ARE 6 MONTHS OUT OR 6 WEEKS 0R 6 DAYS OR 6 MINUTES AWAY FROM THE START OF OUR BIG RACE MATTERS.  Given enough time we can get incredibly fit and ready...

... and that can be a problem.

It's easy to imagine arriving at our ideal weight, with a bike in tip top shape when we have 6 months.

With six weeks, even if things needed some refinement, we can get a lot done.

Six days, we'll be lucky to get the bike perfected if it's not already there.

Six minutes, it's just hope and pray, and that probably will fail...

... if we haven't put in the work.

Steven Covey encouraged us to...

... Begin with the end in mind.

Have you begun?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet

If you have parts you think you'll need, now is the time to source them.  There are still a lot of supply chain issues.

Which means you might need to pull out the credit card.

Personally, I'm a fan of the RaceDay Wallet™.

Made from innertube, it's big enough for what I need on a ride or about town.

The bonus is that the material is so grippy it will never fall out of your jersey pocket.

Use promo code: COUNTDOWN

https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet

---

Save even more with PEDALposse.

---

WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE RACER?  Is it today's flavor of the month or is it the cat that's been around forever?  The superstar or the journeyman?  One is entertaining at the highest level, the other is...

 ... reliable but not outstanding.

For me, there is a certain romance with the journeyman. 

They are not children any more. 

They have come to terms with their limitations and continued to hone their craft to what might be the greatest level of all...

... reliability.

Sure, I love the unexpected explosiveness of new face.  Of course, I thoroughly enjoy a brutal and dramatic fight for the finish line among the favored titans.

But, in the end, when I gear up to race I'll take reliability over flash ever time...

... and that's what comes to all of us who set out on the quest to be our best.

A few will stand atop the podium for the the rest of us...

... it's about the journey, man.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/saltstick-fast-chews

One area of performance that can be unreliable this time of year is our muscles.

It's hot.

We get depleted.

The cramps set in and our day is ruined.

When I head out for a long day, I always through these in my back pocket.

Because they are chewable you can gobble if needed, or just let melt in mouth.

Use promo code: JOURNEY

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/saltstick-fast-chews

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Save even more with PEDALposse.

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FOR SURE, for sure, for sure... the second most awkward thing I had to explain to my friends was shaving my legs.  But, the first... the first, quite frankly, I had to explain to myself...

... thin lycra cycling shorts in public.

For some of you this may have come naturally.  Not for me.  At all.

But, there's a really important lesson there that I've applied so often at this point it's second nature...

... I don't care what others think...

... If somethings spins my wheels, I'm doing it to the best of my ability.

Got it?

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

Maybe that's what inspired the changing poncho?

Not entirely... I also use it to wipe down my body post ride, and then wipe down the bike if it's going inside.

Most of the ponchos we make are for teams.

Use promo code: BANANA

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

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Save even more with PEDALposse.

---

PADDLING A FEW MILES OFF THE COAST THIS MORNING I THOUGHT I SAW A SHARK.  I didn't.  But, if the light is reflecting just right the caps of the waves get a little sharkfinny...

... mind control is a serious skill for us.

Think crit racing is dangerous, it will be.
Contemplate the cliff side of a trail, enjoy the fall.
Will that rock you're staring it cause a flat, probably.

The great Napoleon Hill stated, What the mind can conceive and believe it can achieve...

... so we focus only on the good stuff, where we want to go...

... the clean lines through the turn,
the solid part of the trail,
the smooth section of gravel,

... because our lives literally depend on it.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Speaking of our minds, these are my favorite brain buckets.  Super comfortable, and very stylish.

We have a few containers coming in this month.

This is the Protone, my go to everyday helmet.

There are other colors and models available, just click the link below.

Use promo code FEARLESS to save $45 on the Protone (15%)

The code expires Friday night at midnight.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

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Save even more with PEDALposse.

---

WE'D JUST FINISHED HOT LAPS WDNSDY.  For most, it is the hardest ride of the week.  Roughly an hour.  No let up.  No draft.  Technical.  Max HRs are hit with high, high, high average HRs...

... one by one we trickled in after the final lap.

Dusty shins.  Sweat pouring.  Tongues hanging.  Sloppy fist bumps.

A few minutes pass. 

Normal breathing is restored.

Slack jaws slowly turn to cat-ate-the-canaray smiles.

It's a truly remarkable experience.  

Occasionally, I wonder why all the energy to get rides like this going... and then I get a message like this.

Hot Laps hurt to so good.  I love it.

If you don't have a killer, weekly ride, put one on.  It's easy, just start on time and keep inviting.

If you do have such a ride, invite a some new cat to join...

... and watch 'em smile afterward.

After that it's a cinch to entice them to do an actual race... yes, this is a truly diabolical plan to get people to explore their maximum potential.

Are you in?

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/books-n-such/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r

Kinda like my diabolical plan to finish this book.

Which you can pre-order now.

I've given myself 45 days to get it completed.

No doubt, you'll get something extra if you order now.

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

PEDALposse will get the book automatically.

---

THERE ARE NO TESTING CENTERS PER SE.  No multiple choice answers.  No fill in the blank questions.  No essays to write.  It's just impossible to know if we've mastered the necessary skills...

... yet, we do graduate.

It's impossible to watch it, read about it, listen to the stories...

... and grasp the final meters of a sprint,
the elbow to elbow fight to be first to the single track,
what it takes to fuel your body to endure for hours...

... the only way to advance from Cat 5 to Cat 4 to Cat 3 is to race. 

That is where the lessons are learned...

... and when we're good enough we advance because really know the material.

Speaking of fuel!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

This is flying off the shelves.

Lots of flavors to chose from.

Use promo code: LESSONLEARNED

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Save even more with PEDALposse.

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THIS IS TRUE OF EVERYTHING.  E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G. It's the downfall of newbie racers, the secret power of wizened witches and warlocks in every race.  It looks like magic, or alchemy.  New racers please stop...

... overestimating what you could do in 1 year,
and underestimating what you can accomplished in 3 years.

When I was a newb, sure I was on my way to France, I was fortunate to meet a crusty old cat who clued me in...

... it takes 3 years to figure out what kind of racer you are.

He was mostly right.

After 3 years it was clear I my sweet spot was crits and circuit races.

But, new forms of racing came around.  MTB XC and SuperD, crazy endurance distances, and now we have gravel.  

If there's one thing I've learned, it takes 3 years to get really good... and... we can get really good, better than we think, if we'll put in the work AND FOCUS.

We need time to figure out the deets...

• Specific training
• Nutrition
• Hydration
• Bike and fit
• Tires and set up
• Suspension set up
• ... 

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2

... and a giant calendar is key to see how your year lays out.

Good news!... the year is half over, and most of the events have yet to happen.

I'm closing out the rest of 2021 calendars with this 50% off promo code.

The giant calendar is the bomb for getting an honest view of what we can do with the time we have. 

Trust me, we don't have enough... this will help.

The code you need to enter at check out is: 3YEARS

 https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2

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YOUR RIDE IS READY TO VIEW.  These six words, they should have been three.  Nevertheless, they are a signal to our brains that there is a feast of data waiting to be devoured.  Which begs the question...

... should I get out of my sweaty clothes first?

Yes, ya dummy!... but sometimes I'm just too curious to see how my perception of things stacks up with the Stravaverse.

Yesterday was a perfect example of feeling like it wasn't outrageously hard then looking at the data and realizing we were actually clicking right along.

Which begs the Why questions...

• What was different?
• Tire pressure?
• Sleep?
• Weight?
• Food?
• Fluids?
• Weather?
• Faster riders?

Ask the right questions.  Get the correct answers.  Go faster.

This sport...

... it has me endlessly fascinated.

Take fluids.

How much should we drink?  How often?  After reading Waterlogged I started drinking according to my thirst vs forcing a certain amount of ounces per hour.

Whatever your strategy, ain't it nice to have new bottles?

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

Use promo code: DATA

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

---

Save even more with PEDALposse.

---

AS SOON AS HE SAID IT HE KNEW HE'D REGRET IT.  The thought that goes into tire choice when ripping off road is staggering.  Add to it tire pressure, and you'll see limitless combinations on every ride.  So, when I asked...

... Those tires look huge, what size are they?

Ugh, 2.somethings. I'm not sure.

He left it hanging there, knowing I wanted an answer as I watched the massive knobbies whiz around.  I prodded.

How do they ride?

Look, the size of a man's tires are inversely proportional to his ability to handle his bike.  

Oh, that'll make the blog.

Damnit!

Just kidding.

Tires aren't akin to shoes.

They are more like shields for battle, and everybody has their preference.

Some cats like 'em big and heavy and grippy and impervious to whatever the mountain is gonna throw our way.

Others, light with low, fast rolling treads.

I'm in the second camp, and I gotta admit when both tires broke loose in a swopping left hander at over 30mph today I was wondering...

... Are they gonna hook back up?

They did.  They nearly always do.  But, it's a helluvan unsettling feeling that takes a lot of getting use to.

Getting the pressure right is part art and part science... I'm down to 17 in the front and 18 in the rear.  Fastashell, and allkinda grippy for low profile tread.

Speaking of shields...

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/easy-rider

How do you like this new one?

It's what inspired this new kit.

Here's the deal on this... 

If you order prior by end of day on Sunday, June 6th 2021, we will ship in time for the 4th.  After that date isn't guaranteed.

Use promo code: RUGGEDCOLIN

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/easy-rider

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Save even more with PEDALposse.

---

FOR SURE, I WANT TO WIN.... those are the final words from a Quinn Simmons interview regarding the famously ominous Unbound Gravel race.  Balance that with the words of previous winner Colin Strickland...

... Equally important to winning a big gravel race is HOW you win the race.

Quinn is riding with a pro teammate, Colin is adamant that gravel racing is NOT a team sport.

Who's right?

I'm going to go with Colin on this one.  But, that's probably because I prefer to race alone anyway.  I get what he's saying, that the history of gravel racing is one of individuals battling just as much with themselves over challenging terrain and obscene distances.

Yes... the essence of gravel is Rugged Individualism... 

: the practice or advocacy of individualism in social and economic relations emphasizing personal liberty and independence, self-reliance, resourcefulness, self-direction of the individual, and free competition in enterprise.

... I love the romance of that approach, no matter how much it denies the need for society as a whole to work, I just love that freakin' ideal.

Yeah, Colin definitely gets the nod on this one from The Old Diesel.

So much so that I we whipped up this design.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/easy-rider

Here's the deal on this... 

If you order prior by end of day on Sunday, June 6th 2021, we will ship in time for the 4th. 

After that date this outstanding design will still be available but not might arrive prior to 7/4/21

Use promo code: RUGGEDCOLIN

PEDALposse will save even more.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/easy-rider

---

THE RACING LIFE HAS NOT BEEN TRIED AND FOUND WANTING...

... it has been found difficult and left untried.

And that is what separates us from them. 

We savor the difficult journey racing offers.  

From prep
to racing
to exhaustion
to elation,
knowing we did our absolute best is the ultimate satisfaction.

Find a race.

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

Me, I'm racing to finish this book.

Which you can pre-order now.

I've given myself 45 days to get it completed.

No doubt, you'll get something extra if you order now.

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

PEDALposse will get the book automatically.

---

THERE ARE A LOT OF GREAT ROUTES.  Every locale has something epic to offer.  Whether we are planning to ride nearby or traveling afar, there is one thing we've got to be sure to get right...

... or not bring it at all.

It won't fit in your RaceDay Bag™, but you could check it on a plane.

For me, having the right people along for the ride is much more crucial than where we are riding.

I have nothing to add to that...

... get the people right and the ride is always awesome.

That's a basic truth for any successful operation.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/basic-colors?variant=40053265989793

Speaking of basic...

... this is a new color, part of our basic series.

If you want to give the best gift ever this Father's Day or graduation or maybe a birthday...

... and your "right person" likes elegant design.

Use promo code SAVE10

https://pedalindustries.com/products/basic-colors?variant=40053265989793

PEDALposse saves even more.

---

MULLIGAN FLATS, it sounds like a desolate area up in the mountains.  Maybe there are scattered pines and dusty roads.  A rustic old cabin perhaps?  But, no... this is about our version of what golfers refer to as a Mulligan...

... which I'm pretty sure is what a certain rider pulled on our giant MTB jaunt last Saturday.

You may be thinking, But Diesel, golf isn't a sport. Frankly, gawd rest my inlaws souls, I agree.  Golf is a wonderful game of pool played on a massive table.  A game that 50 year old Phil Mickelson, with debilitating arthritis, just won 2 million bucks playing...

... that would never, ever, ever, ever happen in cycling.

If there's one thing I remember from my ventures on the greens it is a Mulligan is where you hit a terrible shot and yell Mulligan! then take another crack at it.

Back to Saturday.

We're slogging up this hour long climb, it's sunny and hot and our group is spread all over the mountain.

3 of us are off the front...

... when this certain rider says I think I have a slow leak.

Which brings up his Mulligan. 

What else would you call it?  

One minute he's with us...

... the next he's nowhere in site.

When, eventually, minutes and minutes later, this certain rider shows up I have to quiz...

Wow, that musta been a helluva flat to fix.

Oh, uh, it was fine.

Lost some air then?

No, ummmm, just felt like it.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not judging, just pointing out that we can take Mulligan's all ride long, which this certain rider did...

... only to destroy and humiliate me on the next, shorter climb...

... but, try that in a race and...

... game over.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/tools/products/bikeshop-sks-airchecker-digital-display-pressure-gauge-presta-and-schrader

Speaking of air... we're really digging this digital air checker.  I even through it my RaceDay Bag™ in case I have to borrow somebody's pump at an event.

It's compact, and very reliable.

Use Promo Code:  AIRCHECK

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/tools/products/bikeshop-sks-airchecker-digital-display-pressure-gauge-presta-and-schrader

PEDALposse saves even more.

---

WE'RE GONNA RIDE THIS TOWN, RIDE IT INSIDE OUT.  Meet y'all at 6, back to work by 9.  And that's what makes 'em scream and shout.  We're on two wheels.  Skinnies, knobbies and fatties...

... ripping this place apart.

Nobody knows this town like us.  We know it.  They know it.

Even today, after years living here, I followed my nose and found an unknowntome cut-through.

Life is a lot different at 15 or 20 in a world going 50, 60 and 80. 

There are alleys and trails.  Sunrises, leaves, weeds.  Coyotes and cats.  The speeders will never know these parts...

... and that's hellafine by me.

You know what else is hellafine by me?  Our new website.

Check it out:  https://pedalindustries.com/

Of course I'm always working it, poke around it's a cinch you'll find something unknowntoyou.

Like this.

Look close... there's a promo code there.

Let me know what you think of the update... might just surprise ya with something.

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

---

166.8 lbs 
8.3 hrs
Pullups and Pushups
https://www.strava.com/activities/5391782100

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

WINNING A FIGHT OR A COMPETITION FURTHER BOOSTS TESTOSTERONE LEVELS...

Motivation is the one thing underdogs must have more than anybody else...

A few times in your life you arrive at a place where your future has been waiting for you all along.

The preceding are a few quotes from Sebastian Junger's new book, Freedom.  

Here are few others:

It's not that they are against excellence... but they know how badly pride and ego can destabilize a group.

Leaders who aren't willing to make sacrifices aren't leaders...

I should have fought until I was the last man left alive. 

Whatever you're up to this Memorial Day, I hope you get a nice ride in... maybe even a long one like the setting for this book...

We walked around four hundred miles and most nights we were the only people in the world who knew where we were.  There are many definitions of freedom but surely that is one of them.

... it is, after all, a free country.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

Of course, if it's really long you might need some electrolytes for the road and a recovery drink when you get back.

I have turned a lot of people onto these, and I think we gained a few more believers today.

Use promo code FREEDOM

The code works on everything in this link and saves you 15%

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

Save even more if you're part of the PEDALposse.

---

166 lbs 
8.2 hrs
Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5386258500

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

JOHN BAILED BECAUSE THE RIDE WAS TOUTED AS ZONE 2 and too easy, which is exactly why I committed to go. You'd think by now we'd each know that when the boys are together Zone 2 is not Zone 2.  It's Zone...

... too freakin' fast!

I mean what were we thinking?

How could it be Zone 2?

We climbed over 10,000', in 60 miles, under 6 hours.

On dirt.

Yeah, a true 5 digit day - 10000'+

5 digit days are magic.

In advance, they seem insane.  While riding, it can be overwhelming to think about.  But as you bring it home and climb those few remaining feet a wonderful thing happens...

... not only didn't it kill ya, but ya feel damn fine.

Of course, the bonus is that your climbing ability takes a big leap forward.

A bunch of us are preparing to do the Leadville 100 and this was a perfect ride to start getting our bodies and minds ready.

Thankfully Chris was passing these out like candy.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

I have turned a lot of people onto these, and I think we gained a few more believers today.

Take as soon a hint of a cramp is coming on.  I like to let them melt in my mouth.

Use promo code 5DIGITS

The code works on everything in this link.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

---

166.4 lbs 
7 hrs
Stretch and HyperVolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5379819415

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries

NOBODY IS, SHOULD EVER, JUST BE HANGING OUT IN THEIR BIBS.  The lifestyle of our sport is unlike our local surf culture.  We wear our sport on our glowing faces, which radiate health, because we regularly raise our heart rates...

... that's not the only place our lifestyle beams.

Just look at our legs!  They are almost ageless.  Muscles rippling and taught, ready to unleash our might fury.

It's not just our skin.

I don't know any proper cyclist who wears anything but cycling socks.  Dress socks, boring.  Tube socks, terrible.

We have an endless supply of race t-shirts.  Some are real keepers, worn well beyond their Use By date.

Leadville does something cool, they give you a track jacket with your name and finishing time printed on it.  That jacket serves as a reminder of what I've done, and what I can do...

... and I'll be thinking about it tomorrow as I ride the mountains with the posse members who are doing Leadville this summer.

After, I'll be donning a piece of cycling apparel you may not have in your vast collection of treasures.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-apron-for-cooking-and-cranking

Yes... an apron, because I'll be working the backyard BBQ like a boss.  

It's the same apron I use when cranking on my bike.

With handy pockets for my most common tools, and parts I need to briefly store, it's extra efficient and keeps me clean.

I whipped up a bunch for the PEDALposse.  If you're part of the posse, then it's on it's way.

If you're not...

... there are a few extras you can order here: 

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-apron-for-cooking-and-cranking

... or you can join the posse and get the apron as your first PEDALposse gift here:

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-monthly-subscription

But, you should only join the PEDALposse if you're into receiving cool surprises every month, saving an obscene amount on gear, and being part of what we're all about.

Have an awesome 3 day weekend with your 2 wheeled lover.

---

166 lbs 
8.2 hours - 
Pull Ups and Push UPs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5374688433

Ride with us: https://www.strava.com/clubs/pedalindustries