MY FRIEND CRAZY MIKE TEXTED ME FROM BUELTON, about 200 miles up the coast.  He left yesterday, rode around the mountains up there today and plans to return tomorrow.  He rode his bike there, he'll ride it back...

... someday I'll do that.

At least that's what I keep telling myself. 

Friend after friend has been riding off and not returning for days, some for months.  Each time I learn of it, I pepper them with questions...

How do you do it?
What do you take?
Where do you stay?

... the truth is, these are bullshyte questions.

They represent the kind of thinking that keep me trapped on Someday Isle instead of living in Kickingassville.

Too harsh?

I dunno.

If the sock fits, wear it.

A lot of what I accomplish originates in Kickingassville, but the ride off and return in a few days is definitely on Someday Isle.

Speaking of socks...

... I took this shot because it demonstrates all the effort we've put into making foot protection.

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

These have been worn many times. 

The inside out one is fresh out of the dryer.  You can see all the different construction elements that go into FastMax compression.

The sock on the left is also fresh out of the dryer, but I've given it a few hard tugs lengthwise.  I do this because the EZBreathe Yarns contract in the dryer's heat.  

If you're into goodness for your feet, before you head out from Kickingassville, you really ought to try these out.

They come in lots of colors.

Use promo code: CRAZYMIKE

And get 2 pair for the price of one - order 2 pair and enter the promo code at check out.

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

---

165.4 lbs 
7.2 hours - 
Stand Up Paddle in the morning
https://www.strava.com/activities/5369827435

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

EVERYBODY GOING STRONG!  Up above on the climb, there was racing in the air.  I couldn't get enough.  I had to self destruct...

The first lap hurt so bad.
Wanted to quit.

The second lap was worse.
Kept pedaling.

The third was burning.
No stopping.

The fourth...
... I'm on fire!

... I just can't stop, when my heart gets hot.

Fastest lap of the night, #4.

Why's that?

I dunno.

It just is.

Sometimes, the workout seems to ask too much.  Seems too hard.  Seems impossible.

Then we start.

And it gets easier.

Unstoppable.

Until we are burning.

I'll pay for it tomorrow.  But, who cares.  

Not me.

Just gonna curl up in bed after I hit my legs with the Hypervolt.

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

5-10 minutes, each leg.

Better than any massage.  

No appointment needed.

Save $30 with promo code CANTSTOP

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

PEDALposse saves even more

Yes, this post was inspired The Trammps.

---

167.7 lbs 
7.8 hours - 
Burpees - Pullups - Kettlebell
https://www.strava.com/activities/5364457936

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

CAN I BE REAL ABOUT SOMETHING?  Let you know my inner, evil thoughts?  Because that's where this is going all from an innocent attempt at a compliment.  It starts with Jorge rolling up and saying...

... Toddy... Cody, he is what I imagine you were like a long time ago.

Really?

Yes. He is fast and spunky and handsome.  You must have been like that.

And I'm thinking That's a helluva thing to say.

But it gets harsh with this guileless praise from Cody...

... Yeah, I hope I'm as fast as you are when old.

And there it is... in all it's glory.

The plain and simple truth has been presented, in glaring and bright lights.  I have all the symptoms of the early onset O.L.D...

... and these young punks, clueless in every blameless way, think they are doing me good. 

So many things come to mind...

• You have no idea how
• You should hope to
• You're gonna pay for 

... I bite my helmet strap, and smile...

... because I'm damn lucky to ride with these younger, spunkier and handsomer cats I call friends.

The reason I'm even in the conversation is because I'm tapping into my inner winged wolf... every dern day.

https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/collections/t-shirts-all/products/pedal-wolf-logo-shirts

I hope you are, too...

... in one of these, softest dang shirt ever, t-shirts.

IT WAS LIKE SCALES FALLING FROM HIS OAKLEY'S.  Finally, he could see his heroic pulls on the front of our group rides were great for everybody but him.  It only took about 2 years...

... and tomorrow might christen a new era.

I say might because the pull to pull hard and long is intoxicating.

I predict this cat is going to need all 12 steps to ween him off this bad adrenaline drip aka Hey, look at me pulling all the big train.

We're all out there for our daily dose, our racer's high.  The only question this cat needs to answer is this...

... Do I want to pull hard early and get dropped or be smart and punish these cats when it counts?

There really isn't a right answer.  Both are exhilarating... neither includes any Wheelsuckery.

But, I've experienced this particular cat dropping me on the way to meet the group and making me hurt after the real racing is done and we're headed back home.

Let me just posit, if he uses his power judiciously and truly experiences the real rush of finishing with the lead group he'll never, ever go back to his backward ways.

We'll see manana.

Want to know something funny... the 50 or so who regularly do this ride will be wondering...

... Is he writing about me?

To which I say...

... I don't know, am I?

One person I'm not writing about is my pal Chuck, who scored a new pair of Fizik MTB shoes.

How did he score them?  Like this...

... Hey, can you get these?

Yep.  Size?

43.

Done.

That's the easy part... the sweet part is saving 25% because he's part of the PEDALposse.

Maybe you should check it out?

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

---

166.9 lbs 
7.5 hours 
20 Pullups 40 Pushups
https://www.strava.com/activities/5352888896

TAKING ONE FOR THE TEAM, I found myself watching and laughing and having a good time with an old Nora Ephron movie.  Like all great directors, with Nora you know what you were going to get...

... it's the same way with all great race directors.

The best put on a great show from beginning to end. 

They fill the house.

For me, it's all about the suspense.  Whether I'm racing or watching, it's figuring out who has the goods to win that I find so mesmerizing. 

The greatest suspense director?

Is it Desgrange, creator of the three week Tour de France, or Hitchcock, creator of Psycho...

... or is it you, going after that big race or ride this summer?

My money is on you.

If you've got something planned and you think there's the slightest chance you might get cramps...

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

... this is my goto fix...

... they're chewable, but I like to let them melt in my mouth the moment a feel cramps could be coming on.  

If I feel a  twitch I pop open my container and down one.  

They're amazing,

effective,

and inexpensive.

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

---

165.3 lbs 
8 hours 
Stretch and Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5348158468

IT'S WEIRD HOW SOMETHING SO WRITTEN ABOUT, TALKED ABOUT AND THOUGHT ABOUT is so easily overlooked, discarded and forgotten.  But, it's also good.  Good if you're doing it...

... because few do.

It's exactly what I did today.  After a hard block Tues-Thurs, I spun yesterday and went out for a long day of Zone 2.

Which meant I passed on the various invitations to go pound it with the posse.  

I find it nearly impossible to do a proper zone 2 ride with others.  Inevitably, someone - probably me - will squirt ahead and then it all goes to bell on a handlebar.

There are a few things I like to focus on when doing these rides.

• make them event specific, like your next race or ride
• make them long
• make them count

For example, my next big event is a mountain bike race.  Obviously, I rode the MTB.  Less obvious, I worked on climbing with as low of a heart rate as possible.  This forces me to be very efficient on the pedals and keep my upper body as quiet as possible.  Inefficiency is readily apparent by a rising h.r..

I probably over did the time today, shoulda kept it under 4 hours.  But, perfect weather.

Making them count, means not screwing them up by hitting it hard for even a tiny bit of time.  It also means, not coasting it in with a bunch of zone 1.

All the downhill sections should be as smooth and fast as possible.

That's it.

Zone 2.

Eventhough Starva ways Tough Relative Effort, I should feel really good next week...

... and I should also have some new capillaries from the Zone 2 work...

... which is why there's never too much two.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery/products/lactigo 

Sometimes after a big day like this I'll apply this special menthol mixture.

Posse member John told me about it a few months ago.  And I have to admit, it does make the ol' musckels feel mucho better

Use Promo Code TOOTWO

It'll save you 20%, this weekend only - while supplies last.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery/products/lactigo 

---

165.4 lbs 
6.7 hours sleep (not nearly enough, had to watch the Giro!)
Stretch and Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5341160820

I AM A FAN OF BIG GOALS.  The more outlandish the better.  Part of that is perfecting the art of being a real creep.  Not a peeping Tom...

... this takes real detective work.

If you're a nut, and I am, then you want to do as much sleuthing as you can. i.e. creep on your competition.

A lot of races put up their past results.  Others go further and put up the start list. 

There's gold in that data.  Dive in and you'll get and good idea of who your competition is and what they've done in the near and distant past.  

One thing I noticed tonight when looking at a particular long range goal I have is that the cats I'm creeping on have 4-digit racing license numbers. Mine, by comparison, is 48675.  Current numbers are 6+ digits.

What does that mean?

These cats are gonna be wily, grizzled, and hardashell to beat because they've been licensed racers for decades.

Now to put a face, or bike and helmet, with their name and number so I know who's who when we line up.

The goal I'm working on might take me years to accomplish.  But, I'm starting on it this year... and as soon as the date is announced it will be marked in red on my RaceDay Calendar™.

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

While our calendars have been a little sparse, there are lots of events starting to firm up.

For me, there is no better way than having a giant wall calendar to plan and plot the big goals I'm chasing.

Use promo code: OUTLANDISH

To save 20%, while quantities last.

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

---

165.4 lbs 
7.5 hours sleep
Stretch and Hypervolt
https://www.strava.com/activities/5336047216

THERE'S THE PODIUM FOR 1ST, 2ND AND THIRD... then there's the grass podium for fourth and fifth.  Where you stand on the grass.  I know of one team that prohibits posting grass podium pictures...

... they only focus on the top three finishes.

That's the bar the team have set for themselves, and a high bar it is.

Frankly, I'm totally down with that.  It's not grass podium shaming, it's letting it be known to their racers...

... get on top or don't get up at all.

Standards matter.

High standards inspire...

... and they keep us from slacking, keep us focused, keep us from doing stupid stuff.

What are your standards?

One of mine is to share with you what I'm testing, and what's working.

Well, I'm more convinced than ever in the power of maple syrup.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/bikeshop-hammer-gel-flask-clear-5oz

Just filling one of these up with 100% organic goodness.

Give it try.  Tell me what you think.

I'm curious.

The flask is only a couple of bucks... if you order today, I'll throw in one of our Clearly Awesome Bottles

https://pedalindustries.com/products/bikeshop-hammer-gel-flask-clear-5oz

---

166.9 lbs 
7.5 hours sleep
15 Pull Ups 30 Pushups
https://www.strava.com/activities/5329535737
https://www.strava.com/activities/5332078438

I WAS TALKING WITH MY FRIEND HUGH JASS ABOUT WHAT MOTIVATES HIM.  He's one of those guys that constantly amazes me.  No goal too big, no foe to mighty...

... he has Hugh Jass motivation.

When I ask him how he does it, he just looks at me and quotes Nietzsche:

He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.

Ya know, I think he's right.

Having a Why is the greatest tool any competitor can have.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/tools/products/bikeshop-crank-brothers-f15-multi-tool

Which is why a lot of racers learn how to use and carry fancy tool.

If you're into useful art,

use promo code: HUGHJASS

and save 15% on our tools.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/tools/products/bikeshop-crank-brothers-f15-multi-tool

---

167.1 lbs 
8 hours sleep
Weighted Burpries, Squats and Pull Ups
https://www.strava.com/activities/5326721901

I HAVE A REAL PROBLEM WITH MY CREW AND I BET YOU DO TOO.  They keep getting faster.  Faster bikes, better training, improved diet and weight.  There is absolutely no way on God's hard asphalt I can keep up...

... unless I shift.

Because the sport keeps changing all the time, I have to keep shifting my own strategies.

I think back to the early days...

... 8 hours was a big week,
21s were wide,
donuts and diet coke for breakfast the norm,
a big Saturday had me home by 9am...

... and all rides were hard, no recovery, nothing easy.

Keep shifting my friends, it only gets faster from here.

One thing I've switched to is wax for my chains vs oil.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

Wax has the lowest drag coefficients.  It's also dry, and doesn't pick up any dirt or grime.

My go to is Wend, the WaxOn and WaxOff products.

Apply a drop to each link and massage it in.  Let dry overnight.  Ride for miles on or off road.

Use promo code KEEPSHIFTING

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

---

167 lbs 
7 hours sleep
10 Pullups 20 Pushups
https://www.strava.com/activities/5318241534

THE POWER OF THE BEST RIDES AND RACES lies not with inclusion, but exclusion.  Sure we're invited.  But, they do not suffer the slow, the weak, the unprepared.

And isn't that great?

To know there are still places on earth where we won't be given a participation trophy or a finisher's medal.  To know that there are people who demand Keep up or get dropped.

And aren't those riders and racers we want to hang with?

Unique. 

Rugged. 

Courageos

Wanting and pushing to find out how good they really are.  

These are my people.  

Us.

Not getting invited, not deemed worthy, getting dropped... that stuff can get me seeing red...

... and wanting to wear these red gloves and socks.

Here's the deal... and it's a very special one:  buy any pair gloves and the socks FREE!

Use promo code:  SEERED

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

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

---

166.6 lbs 
8 hours sleep
25 Pullups 50 Pushups
https://www.strava.com/activities/5312495980

Want to update your email preferences to weekly or monthly delivery?  Click here -> {% unsubscribe %}

I FIND INSPIRATION EVERYWHERE.  But, there's something about the Jack Reacher series I just love. The books resonate with the way I like to race, alone...

... no team needed.

As a bonus, Jack, the hero, lays down fictional knowledge hits like this:

Always eat when you can.  Then you won't have to when you can't.

That is solid advice doing any kind of endurance race, the rougher the terrain the more I practice it.. 

If it's 3,4,5 hour race, I gotta eat, and I never miss an opportunity to do so when the terrain is smooth or the pace is chill.  Especially if I don't know the course or the cats I'm competing against.  Things can change quickly, and might not calm down for many miles.

Or,

When your instinct tells you something's wrong, somethings wrong.  Always trust your gut.

This is, of course, our cyclesense. 

Always trust your cyclesense when it's warning you to check your equipment or stay away from certain riders or off specific roads.

These tips for surviving fictional peril are totally legit.  And our hero, being a lone wolf, must adhere to them to dominate the danger laden world where he operates.

We have plenty of potential hazards, all of which we want to avoid or dominate.  There is plenty to learn, even from a made-up world.

If I ever write fiction, you know I'll work this in...

... the more we ride, the less risky it all becomes.

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

Yes, these are the best fitting and softest tshirts you'll ever, ever wear. 

Use promo code:  REACHER

To save 25%.

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

---

167 lbs
Stretch
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5309927793

MY STOKER IS MOVING ON.  Apparently, she has found a better captain and has jumped on his tandem.  Ordinarily, I'd be one ticked off hombre.  Who in their right mind wants to break up a successful team...

... after nearly 24 years of donut dates?

I'm so shattered I couldn't even get in a proper ride.

Instead, I spent the day creeping around snapping photos like this one, just to document the apparent happiness with her choice.

He is younger, smarter, handsomer, harder working, and by all counts a total stud...

... worse, and a whole lot worse, I actually really like this cat.

So, I reckon I'll drown my self in Skratch and go for a ride tomorrow.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

You can join my pity ride...

Use promo code: DADPITY

It'll save ya 20% as long as you spend over $50, which is too easy to do with products this awesome.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

---

166 lbs
Dance, dance, dance
8.5 hrs
no ride today

AT THE END OF MY ROAD THE ASPHALT TURNS TO GRAVEL, THEN DIRT.  There's a low white metal barricade with a few reflectors.  Beyond that it drops straight off.  This wouldn't be too bad if it was at the top of a hill...

... but it's at the bottom.

Just the other night I was bombing that hill with abandon, when I started to ease on the brakes.  

I kept accelerating.

I pulled harder.

Nothing.

The white gravel, dirt and white barricade were fast approaching.

Just before impact, I unclipped my pedals...

... only to find myself laying in bed, breathing hard.

I never crash.

Well, rarely.

It's not that Dreaming Diesel's skills leak into reality.  But, it did get me thinking about the best way to explain how to go fast.

The great Phil Jackson coached Michael Jordan with these words, Let the game come to you.

I think it's the same way with going fast on a bike.  Whether it's a fast, flowy single track or a long straight sprint, we have to learn to let it come to us.  

Gravity is going to bring that turn.

The bunch is going to bring the finish line.

When we stop chasing the trail or the sprint everything slows down.  It's weird, but true.  For me, my heart rate is lower.  Confidence is higher.  Everything is better...

... and a lot more fun.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves/products/hiviz-pink-knitted-sock

Fun like this bright pink socks.

Let's make 'em double the fun.

Use promo code BOGOPINK and when purchase 2 pair of these socks one will be free.  

Yes, you could buy 4 and 2 of the pair would be free.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves/products/hiviz-pink-knitted-sock

---

167.6 lbs
Stretch
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5295909545

HOW CAN I EXPLAIN THIS WEEK'S PERFORMANCE... and no, it was not a case of premature acceleration - get your mind out of the sprint.  HOT LAPS WDNSDY were truly some hot laps.  The problem is... 

... I can't confirm nor deny what made it seem effortless.

But, that's the problem with being an Ol' Diesel... or any kind of Ol'...  ya never, ever know when you're going to relapse into being young.  

Let me list the few things I can put my sweaty glove on:

• 8 1/2 hours of sleep the night before
• Put on a few pounds
• Dropped my tire pressure - running 17 and 18, front and rear
• Cooler temp

It's not the PR Lotion or the lightening quick BMC 4stroke nor the new KASK Valegro helmet with lots of vents

... those are constants going back months...

... there is one more thing, and I think this could be it.

I've increased my training volume the last three weeks, putting into practice the transformative training post.  According to Starva, my fitness is tip top.  Higher than I've ever seen...

... these aren't hours of extra stupidhard efforts...

... just a lot more Zone 2.

Unfortunately, because I don't believe in science and training with a power meter, I just have to guess at these things.  I go with my gut, and my slightly bigger gut (bullet point 2) says...

... it's the volume, the increased training volume and decreased air in my tires.

Now for an easy rest of the week.

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

Speaking of easy...

... this digital pressure checker makes accurate tire pressure super easy.

Which is important when going from mostly accurate floor pump to kinda accurate floor pump.

This is a winner.

So are you if you use promo code CONFIRM and save 10%

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

---

167 lbs
Paddle Surf
7.7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5290780876

LOOK, I DON'T KNOW THE ANSWER FOR SURE TO IF BRAD PITT RACES BICYCLES, but do you ever notice how actors seem in public like their most recently played character?  We aren't any different...

... at least I'm not.

In the height of the Froome era, I saw a lot more cats climbing seated with underfed and underdeveloped arms stabbing out.  

It doesn't have to be TV, could be the local race scene.  When I first started, the fastest cat rode with knees pointing straight out.  So, that's what I did.

The personality most dominating our view casts a huge net into how we see ourselves on the bike, and how we handle our ponies.

And, it's not just their racing style.

The team kits too.

Pre-Sky, there were very few teams kitted in mostly black.

These days, the pro peloton is filled with white shoes and white socks.  Guess what's the rage 'round these parts.

I'm not passing judgement, just making an observation.

What we consume matters.

Whether we admit it or not, we take on the characteristics and habits of those we lionize.

As the racing scene is opening back up it's time to think about hanging out again.

There's nothing better than a team canopy to send a signal of who you are and what you represent... as well as where y'all are congregating. 

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

If you're needing a complete canopy or a new top...

... or want to dress up your bike rack...

... give me a shout.  This month you can save up big dollars on canopies and banners.

Who knows, maybe we'll pro up your hang out and some superstar will hang out with you and your posse.

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

---

166.2 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
8.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5287606319

DO YOU EVER WONDER HOW MANY LIVES WE'VE RUINED FOR THE BETTER?  Do you remember the day you were ruined?  I mean, a lot of people ride bikes.  They even throw down serious cash on a bike they'll never race...

... yet, they aren't ruined.

Nobody is truly ruined until their first group ride.  There is just nothing like it in any other sport, and there's no explaining it.

But, I'll try.

Take Ken.

A few years and a lotta pounds ago, he was a normal man leading a lovely life.  Somehow he wandered into our friendly support group, aka Tuesday Morning World Championships.

Innocent and pure.

Quickly, his first and only goal was to finish with the Bs.

Fast forward to this morning's epic performance.

On the front of the galloping A ride, Ken leads at the bottom of The Wall.  20 of us are strung out.  5 of us made it over the top, all behind Ken.

What the heck were you looking at Ken, watts or h.r.?

Nothing.

Nothing?  Your head was straight down, bobbing up from time to time.

Nothing... just the road, I really wanted to PR the climb.

Mission accomplished, and I shutter thinking of what's next on his list.

Or consider Michael.

He's a goner after just 3 group rides, check this text I got post ride.

My tactics were bad.  Rode off the front up Aliso Creek Trail and wasn't as strong up The Wall.  Plotting my revenge.

You're officially hopelessly addicted.

You're right.  I'm seriously hooked.  That I am waking up at 5:30a alone is overwhelming evidence.  I need to get these guys next week, then I'll step up and suffer through an A group beat down.

These cats could be sleeping in and having tea and crumpets at 8a. 
They'd be sharper at work the rest of the day.
Keep wearing the same size trousers.
Fit in socially when out with friends.
Plus, they'd have a few extra Benjamins to invest or lavish upon their lovers.

Speaking of ruined and hooked and smashing PRs...

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

You don't have to believe me...

... and if you race against me I'd prefer you don't trust a word I share.  Just ignore this...

... for the countless of you who have trusted me before and found out I actually know a thing or two about haulingass on a bike.

This is the shyte.

And, if you're into biased research... and clearly any company that puts up research that backs their claims has to be taken with a grain of Skratch.  They claim...

25% INCREASE IN INTERVALS COMPLETED TO EXHAUSTION

... Read the "science".  

Still with me, then you must be thinking...

... I wonder if this really works.

You keep wondering, Ken and Michael and I will keep smashing it.

Use promo code HOOKED to save and get free shipping.

The code works on everything here:

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

---

166.6 lbs
20 PullUps 40 PushUps
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5279304643

DIRECT QUOTE FROM TODAY'S GIRO STAGE WINNER: Five months ago I considered quitting cycling.  What a nice little story to go along with his Grand Tour debut and stunning win...

... but, like Paul Harvey, I want the rest of the story.

How did he get a new pro contract?  What made him think he could get one?  He's 27, but at what age did he believe he could beat the best of the best? And...

... why didn't he quit?

What kept him going when it all appeared to be going against him?

You know what's super cool, though?

He's got that something that keeps people going and it was massively on display as he dropped his breakaway companions and held the charging herd at bay.

At some point, he knew I'm going to make it!

Maybe that is what's in the bottle Roger De Vlaemick picked up at the 1971 Tour.

Do you like this image?... It's a signed, limited edition litho and normally it sells for $150.  Not today.  Today, and only through March 12th you can save $40.

Click the link to read all the details of this very famous picture.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/roger-de-vlaeminck-1971-tour-de-france-limited-edition-of-500

How did I arrange such an offer?... Easy, Brett Horton is one of my top pals and perhaps the world's greatest collector of cycling history.

Act now.

The code is GOTHEDISTANCE

These will sell outl

Click the link to read all the details of this very famous picture.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/roger-de-vlaeminck-1971-tour-de-france-limited-edition-of-500

---

166 lbs
25 PullUps 50 PushUps
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5273906615

SOME SAY WE HAVE A LIMITED NUMBER OF HEARTBEATS ALLOTTED TO EACH OF US.  Which got me thinking about a friend who was so happy his resting h.r. was now below 60.  He'd put in a lot of work to get there.  Which is cool...

... because that's actually pretty good.

Most readers of this blog tick a lot slower when resting.

Will we live longer?

The math is thought provoking.

70 beats a minute over year = 36.7 million beats.

50 beats a minute over year = 26.2 million beats.

If we work out 10 hours a week at ave h.r. of 130... it's 28.9 million beats/year.

For all those who don't get why we ride...

Don't criticize what you can't understand.
-B. Dylan

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

For those of us who like to encourage others...

... this is a good one.

Use promo code HOWMANYBEATSLEFT

and save 20% and get free shipping.

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

---

164.2 lbs
Hypervolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5269994576

AS I HUSTLED MY WAY UP GMR TODAY I WONDERED IF THE GREAT PETER SAGAN hadn't put his stamp on the Tour of California his first year as a pro, would he have had the support to do all he's done as a pro...

... did they know what a gem they had in the young MTB Champion?  That he would go on to win the ToC on this very climb a few years later, and so much more?

All I remember is here is this 20ish year old kid whacking the pros day after day for the sprint finishes... and as I recall, smashing the final climb up to Big Bear.

I mean, who decides if a young star is going to be a superstar or an incredible domestic?

What if he'd been told to haul bottles back and forth every stage?

Was he hauling bottles and still stomping it at the end?

I dunno...

... but I do know, watching Tadej and Remco gives me the same feeling.

These bright, young talents have unlimited power and recover in the shift of an e-tap.

Which explains why I had so much to mull all this over, because when the 8 of us took off together I was quickly shot out the back...

... how could I fall for the old It'll be fun, we'll just cruise it?

I shoulda known, these are my friends and this is what we do.  Lie like helk just to make sure we'll all do the ride.

Quickly my list of excuses grew:  end of giant week, at end of big block, riding the gravel bike with road wheels is still slower, poor sleep last night...

... oh it was a long list, and total utter bullshnyte.

All things considered, it was actually a respectable time.

But, here's where we need to take a moment and consider how things went the rest of the ride and make a few notes for next time.

First, the wind was really howling at the top.  The road wheels are ENVE 5.6's and I was being pushed all over the place.  Exiting a fast sweeper...

... I was blown onto the shoulder and into the gravel, at speed!  Gotta be careful when it's blowing like that when running the deep dishes.

Second, right after that one of the guys yells Todd, you're wheel is spraying sealant all over.  This is good and possibly bad.  Good that I had plenty of sealant, coulda been bad if it didn't seal.  I stopped to check.  Plenty pressure, hole sealed...

... however, I noticed I was missing a chunk of tread.  I'd checked the tread a few days before, it was fine.  But now it was clearly not fine.  In fact, potentially fatal if it blew in a turn.  I ignored my cyclesense last night that was telling me to check the treads again.

I wasn't going to ignore my cyclesense anymore... 

... with that shoddy tread and wind blowing me around I kept my speed in check the rest of the way.

Peter and Remco will be tearing up the Giro... and I'll be replacing my worn out after many miles Pirelli rear tire, and adding Orange Seal sealant.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro-specials

I absolutely love this tire... 

Very, very fast... and weirdly quiet, with outstanding grip.

We'll keep this better than usual promo code going...

Use this promo code to save 15%, code is GIRO. 

The code is good on Pirelli tires, KASK helmets and Orange Seal.

It will expire soon... I'm not telling you when because I want you - yes you - to take advantage of it before some new to what we do cat shows up.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/giro-specials

---

164.2 lbs
Stretch
6.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5264297912

I'M EMBARRASSED TO ADMIT IT, but not only do I subscribe to various cycling TV apps... sometimes I forget which ones I have.  Even worse, I recently purchased Apple TV so I could throw the apps on the big screen only to realize my "smarTV" already had the capability...

... for the love of spoke!

Of course, none of my neighbors would do the same.  They wouldn't watch cycling on TV if I paid them...

... they don't get the struggle.

They don't see the insane drama battling for position during the final klicks of a sprint finish, or the anguish and despair of a racer's failure to continue with the leaders up giant mountain...

... we get that, because we struggle.

In our own way, we'll all kit up in the morning and ride like a pro.  Not as fast, not as strong...

... and certainly without all the support.

This is why we watch, and this is why we struggle...

... to see who is the most pro.

So get your lycracoveredbuns out there today and burn some Italian rubber off your mostexcellent Pirelli tires.

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

I absolutely love this tire... and that's saying a lot, because I was such a Conti diehard for so long.  The Conti's are still incredible... but if I had to chose, I'm Pirelli all the way... and I'm running the 26's on my ENVEs.

Very, very fast... and weirdly quiet, with outstanding grip.

For gravel, it's Pirelli again.

Very fast on the road, and in a straight line.  

They corner really well once they are on edge, but... if you're not comfortable with a little sliding as you lean it over, the run it on the rear only and get a Conti Terra Speed on the front.

We'll keep this better than usual promo code going...

Use this promo code to save 15%, code is GIRO. 

The code will expire soon... I'm not telling you when because I want you - yes you - to take advantage of it before some new to what we do cat shows up.

Now get out and struggle so you can get back to the couch, eat some ice cream, and take a nap.

---

164.2 lbs
morning paddle
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5254546746

WE ALL HAVE OUR PUMP UP JAM.  The music that sets the tone, a song we want playing loud and strong as we slay the course.  But few have a recovery song...

... one that gets us through the dark days of rebuilding our awesomeness.

Mine, the one I go to and share often, is old and forgotten.

Like all good songs it's a story with a lot of drama packed into a few powerful words.  The imagery is unmistakeable.  From broken dreams to a showdown to near death... 

... our hero is unbreakable.

Now the doctor came in, stinking of gin
And proceeded to lie on the table
He said, "Rocky, you met your match"
And Rocky said, "Doc, it's only a scratch
And I'll be better, I'll be better, Doc, as soon as I am able"

One of my pals took a digger last night, and I'm 100% sure he'll be back as soon as he is able.  He's that kinda guy.

I guess this is as good a time as any to remind ya how much I love the fit and feel of KASK helmets.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets

Not only that but with them being made in Italy and the Giro starting this weekend...

... welp, might as well do something special.

Use this promo code to save 15%, code is GIRO. 

Full song here.

---

164.2 lbs
morning paddle
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5254546746

THE SAFER YOU RACE, the riskier it actually is.  Nobody ever won playing it safe.  But, that's not the issue.  I mean it is, but not how you think.  The real risks, and they are real...

... take place well in front of the Start line.

Winners aren't taking risks between the Start and Finish.  It's the losers that do that...

... losers lose time when racing, lots of it, by making mistakes or playing it so gawldern safe they never see the action.

Do you think Julian Alaphilippe had never practiced his incredible winning move to be World Champion in 2020? 

Of course he had, we'd seen it in numerous A, B and C races... and no doubt countless efforts he'd made on training rides.

He was there to win.

To the viewers it looks risky, to the winner it looks like the surest path to victory.

Train risky, race confident.

For those of you who took the risk of answering the question in the previous post... the winner is Margie D, and giving the Exceptional Effort to Crazy Mike for his very specific and incorrect guess that it was Cody (the young buck I chased all the way to the finish).

The answer was Shattered by The Rolling Stones - best RnR band ever according to John T.

For the rest of ya use promo code TRAINRISKY to save 25% off on this limited production shirt - limited to first 50 who use the code.

Thanks for playing

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-wolf-logo-shirts

This shirt will get softer the more you wear it.

Fabrics • 100% combed ringspun cotton fine jersey, pre-laundered for reduced shrinkage

Features: • 1x1 baby rib-knit set in collar

Special Inks: • you cannot feel the ink, it will not crack or fade

$20 ($15 with promo code)... is all it takes to have it delivered to your mailbox and reminding you what a badarse you are on the bike.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-wolf-logo-shirts

---

166.2 lbs
pull and push ups
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5249276341

TO RIDE IN THIS GROUP YOU MUST TOUGH, TOUGH, TOUGH, TOUGH, TOUGH!  Riders dressed in sporty kits.  Battling traffic.  Some kind of fashion.  Laughter, joy and getting dropped. And sprint and sprint and sprint and sprint...

... and look at me.

I'm in tatters.  I'm just shattered.

Work and work for climbs and sprints. 

Ain't you hungry for success? Success, success, success, success.

Does it matter?

First person to guess who inspired the preceding I'm sending our new tshirt.  Send your size with your guess.

But does it matter?  All the hard riding we do?  The battling?

Yes, it does.  Because every now and again we get a little win of some sort and it powers us onward to a kickarse the rest of the day.

Like today.

My goal was personal.  It was measurable.  And I got 'er done.  Had me fired up all day while cranking at our intercontinental headquarters.

Were you fired up from your last ride?

Hungry like a wolf, flying like an eagle?

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-wolf-logo-shirts

This shirt will get softer the more you wear it.

Fabrics • 100% combed ringspun cotton fine jersey, pre-laundered for reduced shrinkage

Features: • 1x1 baby rib-knit set in collar

Special Inks: • you cannot feel the ink, it will not crack or fade

$20... is all it takes to have it delivered to your mailbox and reminding you what a badarse you are on the bike.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-wolf-logo-shirts

---

165.2 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
6.75 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5241333318

IN A WORLD WHERE EVERYTHING IS WEAPONIZED, why not jump on the train with weaponized training?  How could I weaponize my training you ask. Why would I weaponize my training...

... because it's obviously awesome to have a freaking arsenal of enemy-destroying weapons when racing.

Therefore, we must weaponize our training.

To do this, you must develop and deploy your spycraft.

Does your sprint suck?  Find a sprinter.  Stalk that cat in the Stravaverse.  Look at how they structure their week.  Do it.  Find out where they do their training rides.  Ride with them.

Wish you could climb a helluvalot better?  Find the best climber in town, repeat the above.

Build your arsenal.  Racing is war.  Chasing PRs is war against yourself - the best kind.

Showing up on their training turf takes some guts.  You might be shunned, mocked or worse.  Hopefully you'll be beaten to within an inch of your life (on the bike).  These are the battles where we lose and learn...

... to win the war on race day.

Ever wonder where I come up with this stuff?

I just keep my ears and eyes open to the convos going on around me... things like wishing for better performance while avoiding the better performer's and their training tactics...

... passing along the good stuff.

Which brings up two emails I got today.  One from Mark thanking me for the post  to pre-ride the race course... he took second and his pal won; another from Robert thanking me for a gravel route I suggested...

... which makes me want to ask you this question:  Would you be interested in joining a group - on FB or Strava - for deeper conversations?  If so, please let me know where would be your preference.

Speaking of preference, it turns out that most people prefer not to see our hineys when changing in public.  

Hence, our world famous changing poncho available in 4 awesome colorways or in your team's custom colors.

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

Use promo code: NUKETHECOMPETITION

For savings and free shipping.

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

---

165.3 lbs
20 pull ups, 40 push ups
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5236219496

I OVERHEARD A CONVERSATION WITH THE WINNER OF A RECENT EPIC RACE.  To my surprise, he gave away the secret to his transformation from contender to winner...

... it was very specific.

It was also very simple.  And, that's the problem with this type of revelation.  It's so simple most of us won't do it, preferring instead to look beyond or search elsewhere.

I started training 30 hours a week, and it's been transformative.

Whether or not we have the time, stamina or commitment to do 30 hours a week on the bike is not the question.

The question is...

... what can we do today?

And, it probably starts with what am I going to give up...

... to accomplish X?

Like giving up a few minutes of TV time to have a clean and pristine drivetrain.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

These are the lubes we love, use and trust.

Personally, I always use the Wend Wax.  For most riders, Chris recommends T-9.

Use promo code TRANSFORMATIVE

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lubes

---

163.4 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5233467807

THERE IT WAS, THE DREADED BLANK SCREEN ON MY COMPUTER.  OMG!, would the ride make it to the Stravaverse?  At that exact moment, with my HR bouncing off the rev limiter, we hit a red light and I quickly started the app...

... which was sweet, only losing about 2 minutes of allimportant data.

But, that's not the truly sweet discovery.

Crud... I really hesitate to share this. 

So many the hearty souls I battle on a regular basis scan this blog and stalk me on the socials for my seeeecrits.  Alas, it is such a simple solution to a problem I'm sure they'll skip it...

... they are so smart.

Here's what I did.

To start, this is the second hard effort using this solution and I really like it.  First on HOT LAPS WDNSDY's 80 minutes of torture and today's spirited hundy. 

It's quick energy...

... runny enough to easily chug,
... dense enough that 600 calories fit in a small flask,
... and tastes great.

I'm trying to think of hints to give you, but they are all so obvious...

... the first time person I met that used this was Ted King.
... it comes from trees
... it's great on pancakes.

Yep.  100% organic maple syrup.  

Apparently, it's a lot more than just sugar.  Read here.

In addition to the 3/4 cup flask, I had 2 bottles with 2 scoops of Skratch and one RX Bar.  My energy was great.  The last hour or so my stomach felt pretty empty.  I think a Honey Stinger Waffle would have been a nice addition to bring me home.

I'm gonna keep testing... and rider Phil deserves a shout on this as it was a chat last week that reminded me of my convo with Ted.

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

I wonder if my super endurance buddies, the 200-300 miles a day guys, would just fill an entire water bottle with syrup?

It goes down so quick, you barely taste it.  

If so, they might want to stock up on this awesome bottle that goes for as little as $2.  Not because it's cheap, because I scored thousands from my friend's business before he shut it down.

No promo code on this one... it's too good of a deal.

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

---

164.4 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
6.8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5226132136
https://www.strava.com/activities/5226110331

I'D LIKE TO SHARE THE SECRETS I LEARNED TODAY PRE-RIDING BWR CEDAR CITY.  Three of my best pals met on course and had a helluva ride.  Lots of gravel, lots of vert...

... lots to learn.

Which is why we pre-ride courses. 

Whether it's a flat, four-corner crit or a 100+ mile jaunt through the country side...

... pre-riding, in every single instance, means we go faster on race day.

There is no getting around that simple fact. 

Locals always have the advantage on their home course.  Always.  In fact, this might be the one, solitary, unique instance when Strava's silly Local Legend might be of use...

... if you're the Local Legend, or you're going up against that cat, you've got a big chainring up on the rest of us.

Like I said, I'd like to share the secrets I learned today.  Just one problem.  I missed the trip.

Secret #1 - put the Pre-Ride on the RaceDay Calendar and treat it accordingly, rather than just winging it like I did this weekend.

That's all I've got fer now.

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

Do you have a RaceDay Calendar yet?  Everybody in the PEDALposse has one.  

Check 'em out: 

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

Free Shipping this weekend.

---

164.5 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
7hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5218935041

I'M GOING WAY OUT ON A LIMB HERE, but we are getting slower.  And I'd say we are getting a lot slower.  It's sad, even depressing, because it's so obviously tragic...

... and I'm here to tell you why it doesn't matter.

You know societally "we" are slower, and I think you are aware of the reasons.

However, we/us/me/you, we are actually a lot faster.  

But, do you know why?

Of course part of it is that everything is better:  bikes, training, nutrition, recovery.  That all helps a lot.  However, I think there is something hidden that is allowing us to be faster...

... social media, that evil beast, is allowing us - me and you - to connect.  

It's so much easier to plan a meet up, monitor each - more about that, and get feedback on how we're doing.

Pretty cool, right?

So, while society is hell bent on ruining, abusing and taken for granted these beautiful bodies we've been given...

... we are connecting with each other and tightening our bonds.

Admittedly, it can be creepy when someone rides up and comments on a recent activity and gets really specific about it.  Or, when we get a cringeworthy comment.  But on the whole I think it's awesome to get to know so many of likeminded athletes I would otherwise never connect with...

... I know it's made me a better rider, and a better person.

There are a ton of readers I hope to meet up with in person one day and shake their glove covered hands.

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

In fact it was two readers, Chris and Jorge, that begged me to make white gloves.  I was hesitant, but they've done really well.

I think it's because they are perceived to be a little cooler, and for sure the are oddly more visible to other moving vehicles.

Use promo code: WE-R-FASTER

And when you order the gloves and matching socks you'll get the socks free at check out.

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

---

163.5 lbs
Early Paddle
7hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5216054664

UNDER MY GLOVE WAS A HAND COVERED IT GRIME.  My sock had a nice bloody red circle.  Just under 90 minutes of lung hucking effort. Yet, as we gathered for a post ride pic all we could do was smile...

... we'd all perceived having a good time.

Even though I'd crashed twice and had the grime and bloodshed to prove different.

But even weirder was looking at my times. 

I was sure each lap was slower, while catching up to the leaders on the last lap.  I'd definitely felt I'd backed things off the last 2 laps.  It was at the midway point where I settled in, loosed up a bit and tried flowing more than pushing hard.

My perceived exertion was much easier than the first two laps.

Yet Strava Almighty revealed the opposite.

My lap times had actually improved.

Things that make ya go hmmm

I have to hand it to Strava though... for coming up with the silliest perceived effort of all.  I "earned" no fewer than 7 Local Legend wreaths tonight and the idea the Strava perceives anybody cares is just plain silly.

I perceive you're enjoying Spring doing it's thing, and that you just might want a new tshirt.  
One that is soft, and gets softer the more you wash it.
One that is cut for an athlete.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all/products/stamp-logo-pedalindustries-white-and-kelly-green

If that's you, use promo code:  PERCEPTION

You'll save 20% and get free shipping...

... in other $16 bucks, delivered.

Oh, and it has our Stamp logo... one of my faves.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all/products/stamp-logo-pedalindustries-white-and-kelly-green

---

165.3 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt.
8hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5210945328

PEOPLE MAKE FUN OF ME FOR THE WAY I DRIVE.  Can't blame 'em.  I'm easy on the throttle, smooth on the brakes. I could quip, You haven't seen race!  which would be true for most of my mockers...

... but, it got me thinking that's not correct either.

There's a reason I drive that way.

It's a racing habit.

I'm either all the freak in or I'm doing as little as possible

In the car.
On the bike.
Building our empire.

You wanna the know the morbid part?

I plan to die this way.

No flickering candle for me...

... I want to burn on at 100%, like a powerful search light.  Which is why I eat, sleep and train as an athlete.

Then, poof... I'll be gone.

Speaking of poof... I poofed the promo yesterday for lights.  If you tried and didn't get free shipping it's fixed now.

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

Stay lit my friends - front and rear.

They come in 3 sizes.

Save 10% with promo code: FIRSTLIGHT

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

---

166 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt.
6.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5202300691

BETWEEN THE MOONRISE AND THE SUNRISE, I'll be prepping, resting and sleeping for the first ride this year.  I always look forward to this day.  It might be a week or two early...

... but I'm gonna risk it.

I'm rolling out for the first time on a Tuesday in 2022 without a 1000 lumen superbeam on my bike.  

Sunrise is at 605am.
The sky will be light at 545am. 
My 538am departure should be just right.

Ya know, it's nice to ditch the extra weight and the accompanying excuse of how it slows me down.  It just is.

I'll still have my blinkies on the front and rear.  Gotta be seen.

Just going a bit lighter. 

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

Not only are these bright and lightweight, but the provide 300 degrees of blinkiness.

Prett cool, right?

They come in 3 sizes.

Use promo code: FIRSTLIGHT

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

---

166.6 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt.
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5199145220

PUTTING IN THE WORK.  That's what really matters.  When it comes down to it, my favorite people to ride with are the ones with whom I've worked the hardest...

... the cats I have suffered with the most.

It could be those 12 and 24 hour relay races,
Ripping the White Rim Trail in a day
Or long breakaways that stuck,

Those are good ones.

But, if I had to pick it would be the nonglorious days.  The ones where we trained for a specific goal.

Like prepping for Santa Barbara Road Race
Or PRing Leadville

The myriad hard days when no one else is looking except a committed few.

Working together keeps us together.
Work is a blessing.

Lately when working hard on the road I prefer the amazing and sexy Pirelli P-Zero SL tires.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/bikeshop-pirelli-p-zero-race-sl-tire-black

They are really fast, supple and weirdly quiet.  

I run them tubeless.

They seem to be pretty darn puncture resistant, even the SL's that I'm running.

Use promo code WORK

To save 15%.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires/products/bikeshop-pirelli-p-zero-race-sl-tire-black

---

165.3
Stretch and Hypervolt.
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5192575707

WHAT CHANGED?  We smashed the SHoP ride today.  Well under an hour.  Only 8 of us, we've had more.  My second fastest time ever...

... on my gravel bike.

Yes, I'd mounted the deep dish road wheels and tires.

But, still.

That's whack.  In fact, it's whack anytime we break an hour.

My unscientific assessment links this performance gain to one eversoslight tweak.

I'm taking Tuesdays a little easier, because Wednesdays are a lot harder. 

Now, instead of going out for a big MTB ride on Wednesday, we are racing our bibs off for one hour on dirt. No drafting, simply chasing and being chased up down and around. It's brutal...

... but, that's it.

Nothing else.

Just a spoonful of pain.

How did I deduce this?

Just by looking at the Fitness & Freshness tab on Strava.  It's pretty easy to see when the improvements started.

You know what else I've deduced?

Racers and riders really like the Mini RaceDay™ bag.  I haven't promoted them for quite awhile and they aren't even easy to find on the site - doh! - but the orders keep flowing in.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag

Like everything we make, this started off as me wanting to solve the ol' crap clanging around in my saddle bag problem.

We make it out of inner tube so everything is held tight. 

These days I only use the road version and only carry 2 canisters a nozzle and some bacon strips, plus a multitool and tire levers.

You'd think I'd raise the price, demand being like it is.  But, I feel like I'm doing a public service getting all those nasty sounding saddle bags off the roads and trails of our country.

$20.  Delivered.

https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag

---

166 lbs (this is what happens with the kids visit and we eat at 9pm)
Stretch and Hypervolt.
6 hrs sleep (so is this... maybe this was the reason I flew today?)
https://www.strava.com/activities/5186182750

RIDING SLOW IS FOR FOOLS.  It's just that simple.  Riding slow has no purpose and no place for most riders.  In fact, I'd say it's a total and complete waste of time...

... unless you ride fast.

Now, if you're foolish enough to ride really fast or race...

... or push yourself to the point of literally seeing stars 
... or to hacking like a smoker the rest of your day
... or limping up and down stairs
... or needing a nap 

... then, I hope you are mixing in plenty of slow, easy, restorative rides.  The kind where you barely touch the pedals and your heart rate is ticking so low you think the HRM might be busted are the best...

... yes, the pace that looks foolish to all those wise riders constantly pushing 7/10ths of their max...

.. because if you have anything as foolishly fast our Saturday Hour of Power planned you're gonna need some blessed supereasy miles.

Stay foolish...
... and you'll stay foolishly FAST!

Even though we call it the S.H.o.P., it's really about 3 hours with the warm up and cool down.

Which means we'll be needing some sugar and electrolytes.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

Lots of options are there, I am digging this one and the others on the page the link will lead  you too.

Use promo code: FASTFOOL

To get free shipping and save 10%

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition

163.4 lbs
30 Pullups 60 Pushups
7.5hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5178510205

THIS IS GONNA BE HARD TO BELIEVE, but I had a customer... shoot a member of the PEDALposse!... ping me over the weekend.  He'd never done something we do, love, and live for...

... he'd never done a group ride!

Hey Todd, what's the best way to learn how to do a group ride?

Ride with me.

I get inquiries like this often and always respond with Ride with me.

Nobody, well very few, take me up on it.  I don't know why.

But this cat did.

I gave him the basics as we rode to meet the group.

1. Stay at the back.
2. To be smooth, never stop pedaling even when braking (beginners only)
3. Never overlap your front wheel with the back wheel in front of you.

I wanted to keep is simple.  As you know, when things heat up there's a lot going on.

He did so well that on the way back to the shop he broke Rule #4.

How could I forget that one?!

Bad teacher.

4.  Never lead a group ride if you don't know the route.

He'd wound his way to the front, went straight... and we all turned left.  The locals chuckled.  

Classic rookie move.

You know what else is a rookie move?

Not refueling after a big ride.

You know what's great for refueling?

A recovery drink.

You know what I've been loving because it's filling and effective? 

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/bikeshop-skratch-labs-sport-recovery-drink-mix-chocolate-24-serving-resealable-pouch

A good recovery drink right away does 2 things:

• Feeds your muscles what they need
• Satiates so we (me for sure) don't need to gorge the moment we get home.

Use promo code RULE#4

To save 10% and get free shipping.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition/products/bikeshop-skratch-labs-sport-recovery-drink-mix-chocolate-24-serving-resealable-pouch

---

163.4 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
7.5hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5175553453

WHAT HAPPENED TONIGHT WAS EYEOPENING.  I had scouted out a course that took just over 19 minutes on my gravel bike.  It's mostly fast, lumpy single track...

... easy to ride on a gravel bike.

I had no idea how much faster it would be on my mountain bike. 

Nearly 3 minutes.

That's 15% faster.

Look, I absolutely L-O-V-E to ride my gravel bike for the many options it provides.  But, when it comes to haulingass...

... nothing beats a specialty bike.

MTB on trails.  Roadbike on pavement.  Gravel bike on smooth dirt.

As far as race prep goes, the closer our A race gets the more we need to spend time on the bike we'll be racing.  Bonus points if we can set up a similar course.  Triple Bonus points if we can pre-ride the racecourse, a lot.

Here's a specialty product you may not not about, yet.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

The thing I like about this chamois cream is it doesn't break down over time. 

Some creams do, this doesn't. 

Which means I end up using a lot less per application and I can ride a lot longer.

Don't let the name fool you ladies... think of the Secret deodorant commercial.

Plus, the DZ stands for the awesome Dave Zabriskie - look him up.  Very cool cat.

Use promo code: DZNUTS

Save 10% and get free shipping.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

---

165.3 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
7.7hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5170035210

I SAW A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF PAINESIA TODAY.  For no reason other than Why not? we went back to an A and a B ride this morning.  After a year of being all together I guess it was time...

... but that's not painesia.

The painesia happened at the end of the ride.

Two the the main protagonists were flummoxed over their performance on The Wall.

Man, I had no legs on the wall today.

I know, and we weren't even charging into the climb.

That's painesia.  

How could they have forgotten the searing efforts on the first part of the ride, up the long 2-3% grade? For the first time in a year, some of us were really charging.  Attacks.  Vicious pulls...

... these two were hitting it hard.

I'll tell ya this.  I remembered it.

After my own feeble attempt to stir the pot, I found myself all the way in the back.  Next thing I know, I'm hustling trying to close gaps as things are falling to pieces in front me.

Maybe it's because I was lathered up with PR Lotion and not feeling the pain they were feeling that I wasn't suffering painesia?

Could be... it's that good.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

If you haven't used it yet... what are ya waitin' for?

If you have... wouldn't it be a great gift?

Use promo code: PAINESIA

And save 10% and get free shipping.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery

---

165.3 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
6.7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5161124003

HE DIDN'T JUST SURVIVE.  He kept working harder and stayed focused.  The ability to stay focused in the midst of crisis is one of his main advantages.  No matter what we're up to, the preceding words are ones we'd love to own...

... even when simply racing bikes.

I think that's why I'm loving the Elon Musk biography so much.  Because it's written 6 years ago, and we know how much more has been accomplished by working hard and staying focused.

In fact, one of my riding buddies' company is now a vendor for Tesla.  He says the pace is insane.  The deadlines beyond demanding.

They are accomplishing the impossible.

Simply because the leader has otherworldly goals and knows there is no time to waste.

I received 2 texts today with the same message.

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

The giant calendar is awesome.

This one belongs to a World Champion Jet Skier and National MTB and CX racer.

Maybe there's something putting your goals to paper and having them front and center?

... and yes, we can make these calendars with your team graphics, sponsors and important dates highlighted.

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

---

165.1 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5158166321

HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT THE NEW CRYPTOCURRENCY, BIKECOIN?  It's ingenious.  Each Bikecoin is backed by one bicycle.  As we all know, bicycles and their components are in extremely limited supply.  Demand is high...

... and the price of Bikecoin is sure to rise.

Get Bikecoin now and ride your way to riches.  

Haha... there's no such thing as Bikecoin, yet.

But, there is such a thing as people meeting each other riding and finding out that they have a common business interest or one can provide a solution to a problem for the other.

All it takes is genuine conversation.

The only motive is friendship.

The result is true wealth.

Another way to get rich is saving money... and boy do I have an offer for you.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo

This is my go to for early morning and late afternoon rides.  Super powerful, easy to use, and lasts a longlong time.

Use this promo code and save $40.

The code is RICH

Trust me... this is a steal.

The code will expire on 4/23/21 or when we sell it.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights/products/urban-1000-commuter-combo

---

165.9 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5152385312

YOU DON'T WANT TO RIDE WITH FASTER RIDERS?  What's wrong with you?  Really, I mean that sincerely.  Riding with faster riders, getting destroyed by them, is like going to Harvard or Stanford for free...

... it's the best education we'll ever get.

The trick is finding the faster riders, because if we can find the right cats to ride with they will...

• Make us suffer
• Serve us humble pie
• Leave us for dead

... but the best ones, if we keep coming back, will see our tenacity and desire to improve.  They will teach us the inner secrets.  Trust me, they want to teach us...

... once we prove we're ready to learn.

For example, years ago I was riding with the great Nelson Vails.

I was in full fanboy mode.  Drooling all over myself, stuttering, dumbstruck and awestruck all at once.

Hi Nelson, I'm Todd.

Todd...

Yeah.

Hold onto your bars like this.  Always have your fingers looped.  Riding with your hands lazy on the bars is risky.  You hit a bump, hands slip... and then you lose control, and maybe take us all out.

Yep, there I was acting cool... and a real pro and Olympian took the time to teach me something simple.  I've never forgotten it.

At a minimum, I make sure I have good control on the bars.  Always.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats/products/every-day-is-raceday-trucker-curved-bill-adjustable-hat

We may not be racing every day, but we should be practicing our racing every ride.

Yes, you can have this mostexcellent trucker hat delivered for less than the cost of a new BMC.

$24.95

Shipping is included.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/hats/products/every-day-is-raceday-trucker-curved-bill-adjustable-hat

---

166.9 lbs
Beach walk
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5144174641

PEOPLE KEEP ASKING, When is the next HUNKR?  HUNKR broke a lot of rules at the time.  It was a road race, but it was mass start.  There was a huge purse, with equal payout for Men and Women.  Every course was exactly 100k, so there were lots of ways to win...

... overall, age group, and the most glorious -> getting a  PR.

We had a lot of fun, including singing the National Anthem a cappella winding through hundreds of racers on a live mic.

Why did we stop?

It's really hard to put on a first class race.

Will we do it again?

Yeah, I'm thinking we can, we should and we must.  

Will it be better?

It'll be different, and probably better.  You know me.

When you show up for a HUNKR the prime directive is to snag a PR, then beat your best friend, then win your age group, then win the overall.

To do that, you're going to need your drivetrain to be as free of friction as possible. 

My go to is WEND.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wend-wax

Start with a clean, non greasy chain.

It's a liquid wax and it goes on like this, one drop at a time.

Then I massage it in with my fingers so it looks like this.

Then, and only then, do get on my bike and get haulin' boodwah!

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wend-wax

Use this promo code and save 10% and get free shipping... code is HUNKR.

---

164.9 lbs
30 Pull ups 60 Push ups
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5137454711

WHAT IS OUR NORTH STAR?  What is it that gets us out riding each day?  Eating like athletes?  Getting proper sleep?  Doing what many consider insane and impossible...

... of our own free will?

Do you know what yours is?

I know what mine is.

It's racing.

Always has been.

And, not a lot of racing.

Just a few big ones a year. 

Often just one.

It's scarier that way.  To think you'd spend a bunch of time and effort, an entire season going for it on only one race. Yikes!

Here's what it doesn't take:

• Hedging
• Extra effort on inconsequential races
• Riding a prescribed, focused routine year-round
• ...

Having that one or two big races sets the direction and keeps me on track and gives me hope I can pull it off.

That's it.

What does that have to do with clear water bottles that are easy to squeeze and gulp down liquid when you really need it?

Well, sometimes these big events are actually really long.  If I play my cards right Surfergirl will come crew for me.  In those cases, I've been known to mix up 8, even 10, bottles the night before.

I'll put numbers on them so she knows which ones to give me at which stop.

That's one reason to have clear bottles.  Plenty of space to sharpie on important info.

Another is sometimes it's nice to look down and easily see how much liquid is left.  There are times we need to drink faster, and times we are drinking too fast.  Having a good visual can be helpful.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/clear-and-awesome-waterbottles?variant=39480373772449

You maybe asking yourself... How the heck is he selling these bottles for such a low price if they are so great?

Which is a great question, How can I sell these bottles for as low as $2?

Just click the link and watch the highly entertaining video.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/water-bottles/products/clear-and-awesome-waterbottles?variant=39480373772449

---

164.5 lbs
Paddleboard in the morning
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5134471558

YES, I JUST DID THE ULTIMATE NASTY MOVE.  It was a punishing battle to the top and the wide road was about to turn into a narrow, twisty single track.  With zero chance to pass for miles, there was only one thing to do...

... ride full speed for the entrance.

I was confident the extra effort was worth it for two reasons: 

• one, if I was faster downhill there's no reason to be stuck and unable to pass;
• two, if he was faster why let him go first and put time on me?...

... that's racethink.

How'd it work out?

Well, it was the right thing to do.  Even though he caught me half way down, the last portion of the single track was an awful steep climb.  I had a good gap the rest of the race.

But, I've seen the same thing go really wrong when the downhill skills aren't even close to being equal.  Where the battle is won by a much slower descender and said descender will not move over, then is when things get ugly.

What's the protocol?

It comes down to confidence and class. 

Confident descenders will always push to be first into the single track.  Less confident descenders will back off knowing they'll make it back as soon as the climbing starts again.

Classy racers move over if they're going to be causing a bottle neck for anything more than a minute or so.

Tonight, it was just a practice race amongst friends. 

All good.

You know what else is good?

Having all your gear at the start of the practice race.  Which we all did, because we all have RaceDay Bags™.

In fact, we all had custom RaceDay Bags™ with team graphics.

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

We made some sweet bags for local races.  They use the bags for VIPs and raffles.

Did you know 9 out of 10 racers love custom RaceDay Bags™?  (it's really higher, but you wouldn't believe me if I put the real number).

Did you know our minimum order is 1 bag?

Do you have a friend who you want to blow away with a custom bag?

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

It'll be the most fun you've had in years.

---

165.5 lbs
Hypervolt and Stretch
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5129032607 

THE RAIN WAS DRIFTING DOWN AS I ROLLED ONTO THE DARK STREET.  It was not supposed to be raining.  I checked the app again.  Cloudy, it said.  Cloudy my Chamois Butt'r covered...

... I kept going anyway.

Because it rains on RaceDay.  And when it does, I love it!  I know a good chunk of the cats will DNS, and another chunk will DNF...

... because they don't ride in the rain.

The harder things are, the easier it is to get a win or top result. Since a lot of cats just won't ride...

... rain,
... heat,
... dark,
... ice,
... you name it...

... they won't do it and we will, therefore we have a HUGE advantage.

Do hard things.
Get results easier.

That's why they aren't as good...

... when it gets hard.

Sometimes it's hard to get someone's attention, which is why I like to use this fancy bell.

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

It's beautiful, so is the sound it makes... so much so that people turn around with a smile and bow graciously to let me by.

Use Promo Code: BELL

To save 10% and get free shipping.

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

---

166.5 lbs
Hypervolt and Stretch
6.75 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5120221218

ONE OF MY FAVORITE TWEETERS DISCOVERED PELOTAUNT.  He thinks he's a bike racer now.  I'll let that slide for the moment for the simple reason that he was going off on Zone 2 training today...

... and how it burns fat better than anything else. 

Further, he shared a very deep dive into Zone 2 by Dr. Peter Attia, also notabikeracer, who has done exceptional research in this area...

... but, that's not why I ride Zone 2.

At least not the fat burning part...

... I ride Zone 2 for the mitochondrial part.

That's the part that builds our aerobic capacity.  Our engine.  Our big, throaty V-8s that carry us on our own personal victories.

Just do a search on Zone 2 if this is new,

If it's old hat, consider this...

... could more Zone 2 be helpful?

Speaking of helpful, you might appreciate this recommendation regarding tubeless 28s for road.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pirelli

I started riding them instead of Continentals about 6 months ago.  I love 'em.  They are quieter, ride smoother and seem to hold up really well.

Plus... drumroll... they are in stock.

After that I started riding the Pirelli gravel tire.  In my opinion, there's nothing faster on the road or dirt.

I know it's not the deepest tread, but I'm only running 28-30 lbs in 'em.  The hook up plenty good.  Their only fault, and I'd say it's only a fault if you're really on the slicing edge of corning is you really have to lean them over to get the edge to grab.  But, if you've got the skills they hold plenty fine.

If you're down to try them out...

... I'm down to share this code with you:  ZONE2

Use it and you'll save 20%, just because I really want you to try 'em out.

https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pirelli

 ---

166.2 lbs
Hypervolt and Stretch
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5114477365

IT'S THE DAY AFTER.  Our bodies are healing, but it feels like things are getting worse.  Yesterday's hint of physical and psychological pain is now an exclamation point and we are left wondering...

... what if I'd...

... specifically trained and tapered?

... made repairs a week before rather than the day before?

... left earlier, arriving relaxed and rested?

Losers dwell on the What Ifs.

Winners learn and move on.

I can't tell you the number of OhCrap moments I've had riding looking backwards... 

... which is just like dwelling on the What Ifs.

What if the price of a Hypervolt dropped to $299?

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

Would you get one?

Or, would you keep wondering if you're aching muscles really would recover if you had one?

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

 ---

163.8 lbs
Hypervolt
9 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5110691303

YOU DON'T NEED TO BUY A GRAVEL BIKE TO APPRECIATE WHY GRAVEL EVENTS ARE GROWING SO FAST.  And, brining a mountain bike to race is not like bringing a knife to a gun fight...

... in fact Brian Scarbrough took 3rd today on an MTB.

To be honest, you don't event need to do a gravel even to get it.

You just need to show up and check it out.

The vibe is friendly, comradic, even collaboratory.  

People are antsy at the start, but that's because these are always an adventure.  A wide skillset is required:  good road skills, good dirt skills, good repair skills.

There is always some pileup you just can't believe,

Like today.

I'm jamming along in a sweet, ripping pack and I see this gal nearly go down.  I'm talking bounce off her seat, land on the top tube, vector off course and save it.

But, she wasn't done.

You'd think...

Unbelievably I see her do it a few miles later.  This time she doesn't save it and goes flying off a hill.  Total yard sale.  

I stop.

She's giggling.  Trapped in her crumpled bike.

We try and get it working,  Stem recentered.  Front brake fixed.  But, then I saw the twisted derailler.

Bummer.

Anyway, these are the kinds of things you see... and maybe experience.

Which is why there is a party at the end...

... with people hanging out...

... and rehashing it all...

... which is also why you might want to check out the gravel scene.

Our finisher's award?

A hatchet.

Personally, I thought that was risky. There were a number of heinous climbs where I was mentally cussing Sam, the promoter.  The cramps were hitting me hard.

Fortunately, they were rewarded with some very fun and twisty slot canyons.

At that point I was hitting my supply of Salt Stick tablets hard.

Cramps came on.

Tablets chewed.

Cramps gone.

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

The nifty thing about what we do is we included a little plastic container with a pop top.  It's perfect for keeping in your jersey pocket and popping as needed,

Trust me on this... for less than $19, you just might save your next race.

Ships free, too.

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

 ---

? lbs
Hypervolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5104539643

A SMALL GROUP OF US GATHERED OUTSIDE OUR CAMPSITES FOR BBQ TONIGHT.  Only one guy knew everybody, but it didn’t matter.  In the morning at 8:15am, we will all sing the National Anthem and then Sam Ames will explain the many ways he has concocted to destroy us over 80 or so miles of the Rock Cobbler gravel race...

... it feels more like a reunion or revival than a race.

In fact, the thing I like about the Rock Cobbler... besides the whacky courses with things like riding through residential homes - yes through the living room... is that it's not a race.  

I mean there's numbers.  There's timing.

But don't be fooled.

The numbers are there because Sam wants a headcount on all the destroyed riders who didn't make it in. 

Same thing for the timing, it's so that one of his hired hands can look you in the eyes and say...

I'm sorry son, your race is done.

Which is probably why the last supper tonight was so enjoyable.  A final chance to bond with other crazy cats.

Speaking of crazy, can you believe it's April?

Can you believe we are actually back to doing events?

Isn't cool that the race calendars are starting to solidify?

Yeah, you probably are wanting one of these now, right?  So you can plan out your mighty A races.

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

They're giant.  50" tall x 24" wide.  The weeks start on Monday, end on Sunday.

Use promo code ROCKCOBBLER to save 10% and get free shipping.

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

 ---

164.8
Hypervolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5099185474

WANT TO MAKE YOUR TV BIKE RACE WATCHING A WHOLE LOT MORE EXCITING?  The best way, the way that is the most fun, is actually about to start happening again.  If you do it right, it's like planting a seed...

... and seeing a giant tree burst forth.

For example, while standing on the side of the road at the San Dimas Stage Race a few years ago I watched a kid flying off the front of the Cat 3 race.

It didn't look like he was really trying.

Everybody chasing was in tatters.

He was 15.

Brandon McNulty solos in for the win.  Remember that name folks.  We're going to be seeing more from him.

What you want to do, whenever you can, is go to the big amateur races nearby.  Of course, you'll want to do some racing yourself.

Just remember to stick around and watch the 15-18 year olds.

Because when one of those kids goes off to Europe, and they will, and lead a European stage race it makes the watching a million times better.

Right now McNulty is doing just that at the Itzulia Basque Country.

I've also seen Chris Horner killing it at Sea Otter, and he's now killing it with race analysis on his The Butterfly Effect.  https://youtu.be/6L9MXywRCZg

If you plan on doing some racing, now's a good time to plan getting a new bike... if you're in the market.

As you know, it's hard to get a new bike.  We are putting together our season order for 2022 BMC's.  Bikes ordered now will be available between now and September.

Check out their site https://www.bmc-switzerland.com/ .  It's not showing 2022 models, but will give you an idea of what's coming. Let me know what you want and I'll get you the details.

 ---

164.8
Morning Paddle Surfing
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5093955578