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Todd’s Journal
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Get RaceDay Ready
HR TRAINING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
THERE'S NOTHING QUITE LIKE the joy of climbing with friends to a distant peak and poking through the clouds. Summiting is like having...
... the top of the world to ourselves.
All is calm.
Bombing down the mostly unfamiliar other side...
... not so calm.
Heaven forbid we'd let a gap open and get left behind.
Already on the edge of grip, I came into a sweeping lefthand turn...
... a negative radius, sloping downward.
I drifted all the way wide to the soft bulldozed berm.
Exiting, it was nothing but steep with ruts and rocks competing for my attention.
It wasn't looking good.
Somehow I managed to wiggle through the gauntlet.
My HR now sky high.
Only one thing to do, let out a huge...
... WOOOOHOOOOO!!!
Sheesh, my heart skipped a beat just reliving and writing this.
It.
Was.
Awesomeness.
Had I gone down,
I wouldn't have died.
But, it woulda been a bloody mess firshur.
Glad I kept my eyes open
and arms relaxed,
the tires held...
... just another reason to be grateful this time of year.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/96/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WHO KNEW WE WERE THAT BAD?
THE PROGRESS WE MAKE can be kind of embarrassing. We don't know it at the time. In fact, we're having so much fun those early pics and vids...
... can be kind of embarrassing.
There's hope.
Bad athletes,
can get good.
Good athletes,
can be great.
Great athletes...
... know the secret.
Keep doing it.
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
480 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Dips
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/82/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
THE OTHER 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS
A LOT OF US plan to do some superspecialsecret training when nobody is looking in the coming days. Some are going so far as to...
... do the outrageous.
A gift to ourselves.
Which reminds me of one my pals who each year would ride a century 12 days in a row.
That was his goto way to start the year with a bunch of base miles.
Of course, the family and friends all thought that was...
... akin to getting coal for Christmas.
Personally, my overarching diabolical (counter season or counter intuitive?) plan is to...
- play around on jumps and technical stuff
- catch up with friends
- have fun
... make the training count.
What are you planning for 12/25 thru 1/6
While you're thinking about that...
... I'm sharing this kit with you in the off chance you're looking so spoil yourself with something outrageously sexy...
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Or, 50% savings here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
163.4 lbs/12.4%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/84/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
IS IT TOO LATE TO GO PRO?
THE SALARIES of the tops pro seem fantastic. The lifestyle unbeatable. Who doesn't want to get...
... paid to train and travel the world?
Sign me up.
But...
... it's too late, you're too old, you lack talent, you don't have time, you're too young, your equipment sucks, your friends and family won't approve, you'll nevereverver freakin' make it...
... SILENCE!
Though we may not get paid,
our travel will be less exotic,
we can still focus on...
- a specified activity
- honing our craft
- doing our best
... it's never to late to be pro.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
8ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
WE WON THE LOTTERY!
WE DON'T DREAM enough. At least most of us. When we do, and I'm not talkin' 'bout shut eye...
... we change our state.
Great things are suddenly possible.
I was reminded of this yesterday...
... my son was going to buy a lottery ticket.
He does this when it's over a billion.
I told him how much...
- it allows us to dream
- things we'd change
- do or never do
... I love and hate the lottery.
Name one thing you'd do?
I'd never get up to an alarm clock again?
Later, I reflected on my greatest day on the bike.
In 2022.
The insane Leadville goal of...
- a PR
- sub-8 hrs
- at age 60
... and how I did it.
The dream of sub-9 at sixty started years prior.
Always in the back of my mind.
But, there.
How it would feel to be in that kind of shape.
The closer the date got,
the more real it became.
Until I believed I could not only go sub-9,
but shatter my 6 previous efforts.
We can win our own lottery...
- crystal clear
- detailed
- belief
... if we'll just start dreaming.
===
166lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/91/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
500 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
IS IT THE SACRIFICE?
WHY DO SOME OF US stick with the endurance thing year after year after year and others check in for a season or two then check out...
... never to return?
There is something unseen happening.
I think I know what it is.
Sacrifice.
For better or worse...
- could be skipping a new car for a better bike
- an hour later out at night for an early run
- a quick swim instead of a tv binge
... we've sacrificed something.
That sacrifice produces the faith necessary to really go for it,
go for that insane physical goal we've set.
It gives us hope.
And, we love that...
... in everything we do.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
7ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/93/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
YOU'RE GONNA SAY THIS IS IT
THINGS AREN'T GOING to go according to plan. Everything is going to go south. Everything. And you're going to say this is it..
... This is how I end.
You can accept that,
or you can get to work.
That's all it is.
You just begin.
Solve one problem.
And then the next.
If you solve enough problems...
... you get to cross the finish line.
Adapted from the closing scene of The Martian.
It's a long movie,
about solving problems,
which is what we do the moment...
... we register for a race or commit snagging that elusive PR.
(highly recommend the movie)
===
165.2 lbs/12.6%
8sh hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/95/-7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH
IF WE'RE REALLY LUCKY, and we (you n me) are, we'll stumble into something that keeps us endlessly fascinated. No matter how much we do it, or how long we put it on pause...
... it is always, ALWAYS, a ton a fun.
How can we do it forever?
At a high level?
Before I tell ya the answer...
- age
- friends
- failure to progress
... we gotta accept the challenges.
1. If we aren't on point with our health choices, age may ravish us...
... and not the sexy kind.
2. As the playground circles the sun...
... many of our friends will hang it up (see #1.)
3. Failure to progress...
... leads to boredom.
Today, I hooked my sassy grin...
- rode with younger cats
- picked up a new trick
- pushed my limits
... up to the firehose of youth.
1. Lucked into shredding a lot of single track with Steve and Brian...
... the schedules aligned, the conversations vibrant.
2. Coming in hot to a corner, Steve locked up the rear wheel...
... Why did you do that? To vector the turn and change trajectory.
3. Brian, did you launch off that rock?...
... Yeah, came around the turn so fast I had to.
The real secret to the fountain of youth...
... making and keeping young friends.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
THE HIDDEN ADVANTAGE
WE'RE BUSY. We work. Raise families. Participate in communities. Do our duties...
... what's our hidden advantage?
Just that.
We know how to...
- schedule
- pacify
- lead
... and we have perspective.
Which is what sets us apart,
keeps us in the hunt...
... 'till we cross the finish line.
===
164 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
>
DARE OR DARE NOT
SOMEWHERE AROUND 8 YEARS OLD, we learn of daring. Someone gets dared. We don't even know what the word means and, yet...
... we do.
Because there is tone.
An unsaid judgment.
I dare you.
Our response...
- bold
- calm
- weak
... means everything.
Later in life, that cat in the mirror still dares us...
... if we are lucky.
What are you daring yourself to do in 2026?
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SHOW A FRIEND AROUND TOWN?
GETTING A LONG-DISTANCE FRIEND TO VISIT is mostly rare, for most of us. We post to Starva, talk up our locale...
... to the point of bragging.
Then, the friend shows up.
Suddenly, we're wondering...
- will they be impressed
- can they keep up
- will they crash
... how this is gonna go down>
There was a time when Surfergirl would take such visiting friends aside and whisper...
... Be careful, he's kinda crazy.
Couldn't blame her as more than a few returned bleeding,
one with a broken bone.
It wasn't on purpose.
- I'd just forget
- be in the zone
- having a blast
... thinking they were doing the same.
The local, me...
... could rip the trails blindfolded.
Everyone else was riding blind.
Anyway...
... Tim did great today.
(I knew he would, and didn't really back it down at all.)
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
7.75 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/91/-5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GOOD NEWS: THERE'S HOPE!
THIS TIME OF YEAR, the schedule gets crowded. The company parties, family get togethers, community events...
... we want to attend 'em all.
It eats into the training time.
And, that's good.
Just yesterdee, Surfergirl reminded me of our date to see Gentry.
Her favorite trio was in town for a Christmas concert.
Driving down, we wondered if we'd run into any friends,
walking in we saw my brother and sisterinlaw...
... seating, we were astonished.
We were exactly right behind them.
Couldn't have planned it better,
total surprise.
But, that's not the point.
We were carried away in the spirit of the night...
... all the world's nonsense, forgotten.
When we returned home, there was a package on the doorstep.
Incredible...
... a customer had hand made classic ornaments for each of our family members.
As a gift.
The real point is if we'll shut off the news, the pointless socials and get out to events and people we love we find...
... there's hope!
Hoping you'll find plenty of time to share your love for others in the coming weeks.
===
162.2 lbs/12.2%
7.5 hours sleep
no PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
no Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/86/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE BEST FREE ADVICE YOU NEVER PAID FOR
WE ALL GET ACHES AND PAINS. Mostly, we just blow 'em off knowing in a few days things will right themselves. At least that's the idea. But, we are organic...
... our equipment is not.
It won't self heal,
like our miraculous bodies.
No matter how much positive energy we send it...
... those creaks won't go away on their own.
We gotta respect and inspect 'em.
I mean really figure it out.
Lemme splain it.
I've had an annoying creak for a couple of weeks.
Finally, last Friday...
- removed cranks
- checked, cleaned bottom bracket
- found a broken bolt on the chain ring spider
... thought that'd solve everything.
Mostly, kinda.
However, last steep climbs at end of Saturday's ride indicated problem not resolved.
Took into the shop for professional treatment.
Ace mechanic gives me a call.
It's not good.
How bad.
Axle in hub is cracked.
Yikes.
Yeah, it coulda been bad.
How bad?
Well, if it broke while riding it would have destroyed the hub innards, and...
And, what?
... and possibly locked up the wheel.
Now, I dunno how things are where you live, but on that ride I'd just finisihed...
... I hit 35 mph over a rocky, gravel fire road.
Had that wheel locked up...
... I'd be dead, at best.
Consider this the best free advice you Never paid for...
- bike
- bones
- muscles
... Fix thy creaks!
===
162.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/89/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
470 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HAVE YOU HAD A CLASSY SMOKE, LATELY?
CELEBRATING AN EPIC EFFORT is, can be, a powerful factor in repeatability. You know, whether or not we ever do it again and...
... gain the associated benefits.
Old time movies we so classy.
In black and white.
Couple meets,
goes to dinner and dancing,
the very next scene we see...
... they are covered up, smoking in bed!!!
Here's how we do it most Saturdays.
Meet up at the corner,
hit it hard for 3-4 hours,
the next thing we know...
... we're at the country store.
Cokes, RedBulls, chips, even had Zingers yesterday...
... our version of smoking in bed.
===
Now, here's the diabolical brainwashing science...
- guaranteeing many repeat performances
... celebrating with lots of sugar and caffeine burns those good feelings in.
===
165.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/92/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
APPRECIATING A ROUGH START
FOR SOME GETTING STARTED is easy, for other it's hard. Even messy. So, what's better...
... an easy start or a tricky start?
Take today.
We'd climbed 4141', 13.4 miles.
The start, though steep, was pretty smooth.
The final 4.5 miles, were quite a bit rougher.
Lots of rocks.
I really suffered that last 2ish miles.
After a bit of a break,
it was time to plummet back down.
We pushed the pace pretty good those first 4 1/2 miles...
... over terrain I've flatted on many times.
I knew the next 9 miles were smoother, but...
... after the previous beating they seemed like a freeway.
We screamed down.
Surprisingly, I posted my 3rd fastest time ever.
(In case you're wondering if that was my 3rd time down, it was my 44th since 2012, per Starva)
This served as a good reminder...
... if we push through a rough start, we gain the skills to go much faster.
===
Further update on the Conti Dubitals...
- they roll reallyreallyreally fast
- corner dependably at high speed
- seem to be pretty darn puncture resistant
... I'm loving 'em.
Looking forward to playing with pressures,
I think I can run lower than the 16 and 17 I ran today.
(that was in the cold garage, before the heated up on the actual ride which would increase the pressure by a few pounds)
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/107/-18 (fitness/fatigue/form)
430 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ARE WE RIDING SATURDAY?
WE ALL HAVE A RHYTHM TO OUR TRAINING. We have a favorite rotation of workouts, training partners, intensity...
... just like the goto dinner schedule.
When all else fails, I know spaghetti and meat balls is a winner.
No matter what I have planned.
When it comes to Saturdays, the...
- crew
- pace
- route
... I have a few defaults.
If I've had two hard sessions during the week,
I'm leaning towards a longish sweetspot/tempo ride.
If the week only had one high intensity completed,
I'm gonna wring it out on Saturday.
This week's Wednesday Worlds was kinda hard, therefore...
... tomorrow I have a nasty 1ish hour uphill TT planned.
The younsters are gonna make me hurt.
Can't wait!
How do you do it?
===
165.6 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
440 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TACKY, TORQUEY TESTING... CONTI DUBNITALS
GETTING NEW EQUIPMENT is always fun. Usually, it is preceded by all kinds of Kool-Aid drinking. You know, the marketing team laying it on thick...
... and our friends laughing at our antiquated ways.
This week, I bit.
Finally jumped to wider tires.
From 2.2 RaceKing in back and 2.2 CrossKing in front to...
... 2.4 Dubnitals, front and rear.
My testing took place on our local single tracks...
... while doing low-cadence, torque climbing in Zone 2.
I'd rip down,
ponder performance on way back up.
Going from 2.2 to 2.4 doesn't appear to be much,
the tires are a bit lighter than the 2.2s
My initial...
- they go from edge to edge much quicker
- seem to roll very fast
- traction is great
... reactions.
I think they're gonna be a great upgrade,
will test on the smoking fast downhills, Saturday.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
450 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MUTUALLY ASSURED DESTRUCTION
IF IT TAKES A VILLAGE to raise a child, then, for us, it obviously takes a group to train us up proper. The right gaggle...
... has countless benefits.
Number 1 being speed.
Which is why I did the Wednesday Worlds today, and rolled right into...
... Pain Cave.
When we're on form,
this is an hour segment of riding just below detonation.
Today was much easier...
- the group was slowish
- BBB and I cruised Pain Cave
- catching up and discussing next year's goals
... we were 5 minutes off the PRs.
That will come down because we committed to some rather outlandish goals.
Which means, we'll be pressing the pace on the WW ride,
then duking it out on Pain Cave.
Leading to our mutually assured destruction the rest of the work day...
... and, what we hope will be a massively successful 2026 campaign.
===
If we do it correctly, we'll sprout wings.
Deal below.
Use promo code: VELOBONES
To save 20% on any t-shirt in the collection.
Expires on 12.5.25
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-shirts-all
===
165.4 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/95/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
420 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
OTB OR OTB?
WE HAVE ALL THESE CODE WORDS and acronyms in our culture. The deeper we get into it...
... the cryptic they become.
Here's the mechanic's favorite...
... I was just riding along.
His eye's roll and he scribbles on the notes...
... JRA.
I heard another from a shop owner who was barely hanging on and his "loyal" patrons were constantly asking for discounts and free stuff...
... he called them Freetards.
I've been guilty of both of those and quickly cleaned up my evil ways once I got the hint.
But, this one...
... it's been hard to stay away from.
OTB.
This one is a two-fer,
I can't get it out of my mind lately.
Off the back...
... which is where I seem to be finding myself a little more than my liking.
Over the bars...
... luckily, my recent wipeouts have been on solo rides.
===
165.8 lbs/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU CHOPPING WOOD?
WE ALL HAVE A FAVORITE MOVIE, book or story. One that inspires us to be more than we currently are, or return to a place we once dominated. These myths are important because...
... they can lead and guide us to a better future.
Truly powerful.
One of my all time favorites is Rocky IV.
Rocky, seeing his once enemy, the great Apollo Creed, who became his friend and mentor, get crushed by a Russian giant...
... decides he must do something completely different.
He must go...
- runs
- pulls a sled
- carries logs
- throws boulders
- chops down a tree
... to snowy and freezing Siberia.
Maybe it's winter,
maybe it's cold...
... maybe they only way to get nasty fit is chopping wood like Rocky.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
00 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/88/-4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
390 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EARNING VS LEARNING
LIFE IS LIKE AN EPIC CARD GAME. We're dealt our genetic hand. As little children, we have no idea...
... we're just running around having fun.
Somewhere around the age of 8 or so we realize...
... we're not all created equal.
I can throw,
my aim is woeful.
I can run,
my friends are faster.
I can swim,
holding my breath is a struggle.
Most of us here, found we love to endure...
... persistence and suffering are out super powers.
We can't earn our way to a sub-4 minute mile, but...
... we can learn how to be faster and more efficient.
That's the journey we are on.
Learning how to be our best.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/93/-8 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TRAINING BLOCKHEAD
FOR MANY OF US, this is the time to back things down. Pick up a sporty side hustle. Hit the weights...
... do something different.
Makes sense.
The next season is a long way off.
Just one problem.
Physics.
You can't shoot a cannon from a canoe.
Meaning, when the season does come around, we're going to need a good base from which to start launching our hard efforts.
So, whatawee 'posed ta do?
Personally, I'm gonna...
- have fun
- be more socisl
- challenge my skills
... while logging some solid base mile.
===
166 lbs/12.7%
6.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/107/-20 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU COMFY?
WE HEAR A LOT ABOUT comfort zones. How we want to avoid them because they hold us back, lead us to settling for...
... more than we can be.
Who wants that?
Things I think about after a less frightful drop down one of my all time favorite descents.
I held the KOM at one point,
still top 11.
Back than, I was really, really at ease on that screamer...
... in a state of flow, relaxed.
Comfy.
The good kind.
Yesterday, on the same segment, I was a hot mess.
Smiley on my rear wheel, showing his front wheel, asking...
... Are you riding cautious?
I wanted to say...
... Heck no, and Screw you!
Things were not flowing,
I was gripping.
Hard.
It was very uncomfortable because I haven't been on my MTB much the last year or so.
Practice leads to comfy,
comfy leads to flow,
flow leads to ripping.
Effortlessly.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/94/-9 (fitness/fatigue/form)
290 Anti-Oxidant Score
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THERE'S A LEGENDARY CLIMB
SOARING 5600' ABOVE SEA LEVEL, we have access to a legendary climb. A gravel fire road. It's the kind of challenge we can sink our teeth into, get a baseline for our fitness...
... set legit goals.
The mountain ain't movin'...
- 9 miles
- 3000'
- 6.3%
... but, we are.
The KOM is held by current world tour pro Kevin Vermaerke,
which he probably set in the NICA days.
53:10
The next 9 are local legends...
... the legit kind, not the goofy Starva thing.
There are two ways to view...
- I'm slow, and I suck
- I'm slow, and I can improve
- I'm slow, and I'm dawgawn grateful to be ripping with my pals
... today's traditional Thanksgiving effort.
One more takeaway.
When I set my PR, we lived much closer to the mountain and I'd ride it 3-4 times a month.
It was a goto.
And, it got me thinking...
... if I wanna slay like that again, I gotta do it more.
Maybe every week for the rest of 2025,
and chop 18 minutes off today's time?
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
84/90/-6 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I NEVER LIFTED WEIGHTS UNTIL I GOT INTO THE NFL...
MOST OF US ARE PROBABLY HEADING OUT for the local turkey trot or some sort of holiday ride. It's tradition, followed by the traditional...
... Did you ride or run today?
Which deserves...
... Yes, and the sun also rose this morning.
Earning an...
... I bet your hungry!
Usually followed by a...
... I didn't know you could eat so much pie!
At some point someone will turn on "the game".
As full as we are,
as much as that lycra gonna be stressed tomorrow...
... we realize endurance training doesn't favor or create massive muscles.
Which brings me to one of my all time favorite athletes...
... the Great Hershel Walker.
Dude was devastating in college and NFL.
This quote must have been so humiliating to those left flattened on the field....
- 2000-3000 pushups/day
- 3000-5000 crunches/day
- hundreds of pullups/day
- hundreds of dips/day
- air squats and lunges thousands
- 20-50 yard sprints
... I never lifted weights until I got into the NFL.
Damn.
We may not be - ok, never will be - built like Hershel, but...
... kinda makes ya wonder how much stronger we could be.
Dedicating little time,
from home.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
20 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/82/0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STRATEGY VS THE DREAM
LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR yet? Maybe it's too early, I mean jeez it's not even Thanksgiving yet. But, almost...
... so, it might not be too soon.
There's no rule on that.
I was thinking about this on my ride yesterday.
What comes first...
... strategy or the dream.
Especially with all the InfooIncers on the socials.
You know which ones kill me....
... literally saw this one today...
... Download My 47 Points To Master Advertising Now!
hahahahahah
But, you get the idea.
We can get so hyped up on a new (to us) strategy...
- Single-legged box jumps while hula-hooping for explosive sprinting
- One million grams of carbohydrate from bonking to crushing
- Sleep like a grizzly and maul the group ride
... we start looking for a race to unleash.
I've done it,
still do it.
We can all be suckers,
the cons are as appealing as the conmen.
Anyway, what I concluded after zonetwoing my way around town was...
... The Field of Dream if we build it, they will come...
... is kinda right.
The players, errr strategies, don't show up until the field is built.
In other words, once we identify the...
- A race
- impossible PR
- unconquerable route
... then, and only then, will the strategies we need be apparent.
Let me say it differently.
We can quickly toss aside...
- techniques
- strategies
- hacks
... the worthless dross.
Because the really good stuff that works is easy to see...
... once we have our dream/goal/desire firm and clear in our minds.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/74/7 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
NOT AS GOOD?
JOURNALISTS ARE SO MUCH SMARTER than us fans, they have incredible insights we just can't fathom. Why it's a wonder we even...
... bother seeing with our own eyes.
This is gold.
A journo says...
... MVdP is nowhere near as good as Tadej.
On the heels of saying...
... MVdP beat Tadej on the races he wanted to win.
He being MVdP,
and he being Tadej.
Wait,
what?
He's not as good,
but he beats him?
Oh, journo.
Here's the dill, and...
... it's a good lesson for us lowly amachuros.
On certain courses...
... certain riders are unbeatable.
The challenge is to find our course.
===
164.2 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/12 (fitness/fatigue/form)
>
MY VICE IS TERRIBLE, MY CULT IS WORSE
FEW OF US HAVE BEEN TO AN AA MEETING, but we've seen TV/movie version many times. Hi, I'm Todd and...
... I'm an endurance junkie.
Hi Todd.
When we come clean with the general population, Today I...
- swam 10,000 yards
- rode for 5 hours
- ran 20 miles
... they think we're crazy.
We're not.
The adrenaline rush of ...
- 60 miles an hour in nothing but lycra
- the swimmers blue mind
- the runner's high
... we need that hit.
Regularly.
This risks we take...
- sending it down the mountain
- running along into the cold, dark night
- impossibly holding our breath one more length
... would freakout any life insurance company.
These sensations of pushing well beyond normal, reasonable, safe...
... are often all that's keeping us stable.
In all sincerity, because the allure of the lottery and dulling our senses with substances is so very tempting and tragically treacherous...
... stay dangerous my friends.
The sane kind.
===
165.4 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/70/11 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HOW WE SOLVE PROBLEMS
SOME PROBLEMS ARE HARDER than others to solve. It can be frustrating when the answers just aren't coming. This is...
... how I solve my problems.
It's a question of time, right?
The truly unsolvable problems need marinating...
- clearly identify what needs to be solved
- set aside time
- get outside
... during a very lazy ride, run or swim.
The only goal is to solve the problem.
A stop for a pastry and drink is often required...
... I carry a journal and a pen to help me flush out ideas.
The best problems take require more...
- miles
- creativity
- "fuel" stops
... 3 or 4 or a lot more sessions.
Just today I was trying to figure out what to focus on...
- goals
- events
- milestones
... for next year.
Went for a ride,
had a brainstorm,
came home to the Giant calendar.
And they think we ride just for fun and fitness!
===
165 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
0 PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
0 Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/81/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BECAUSE IT'S BEAUTIFUL
WE ALL HAVE A WAY to perform. Whether it's vanquishing, showing off, sufferfesting, truly enjoying every moment, our individual efforts...
... leave a lasting impression.
On others,
on ourselves.
Is there a best way?
Right way?
Only way?
Let us not gaze into our own navel but...
- racers
- promoters
- business leaders
- matriarchs and patriarchs
- community and governments
... appreciate for better or worse.
It is what it is.
I was recently struck by a singer...
- unknown by most
- unwilling to submit to label demands
- who died without much fame or fortune at 33
... sold more than 10,000,000 records posthumously.
What?!... how? who?
The great Eve Cassidy sang as if every song was a gift to the listener,
with uncommon love and passion.
Nothing more.
May we all do our thing with such beauty.
===
Pull down her tracks on your music app... good wrenching vibes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4C1_oNzhU7U
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
20 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/65/16 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ON THE GAS
A LITTLE KNOWN SECRET to not falling over is going faster. It's counterintuitive. But, it's the first thing we taught the kids when they started riding motos in the desert...
... speed is our friend.
Then why did I suffer so badly last weekend in a desert-bound gravel race?
You didn't have a motor Dingdong!
No, it's more than that...
... and I've thought about it a lot this week.
The 92-mile race
- low gradient climbs and descents
- long, long straight roads
- mostly flat
... provided very little coasting.
We had to stay on the gas.
It's not like the terrain here,
most of my ride profiles look like a lumberjack's saw blade.
Anyway, I'm thinking about that this week because I'm starting to do sweetspot training...
... 90% of FTP, without coasting.
I've got to stay on the gas (the pedals).
It's hard to do when we have so many punchy climbs and lots of turns.
But, I'm a committed fool when it comes to this stuff.
===
By the way, you might be one of the horde who loved this jersey...
... which means you'll probably love the kit.
If you wanna rock this awesomeness click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
There's an insane offer, so don't forget to click here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedalindustries-r-riders-collection
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
82/67/14 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
>
TAKE TWO, AND CALL ME IN THE MORNING
GETTING A COLD is annoying. Can't train like we want to, can't sleep well, hard to be productive. If we get near our lover fingers are raised in an X...
... so, what do we do?
To speed it up.
There are my goto...
- Zicam at first hint
- Pollo Loco tortilla soup
- Insanely hot and long showers
... rider's tales.
Then there's what I did today...
... which could massively backfire, tomorrow.
I woke up,
it was cold.
I had a cold,
and hemmed and hawed.
I consulted my alter ego Dr. Goforit, who said...
- raise your body temperature
- the nose will start to flow
- blow that gunk out
... Put on a kit and get on two wheels.
Torture.
I've had mixed success over the years.
I'll either be on my way to pneumonia...
... or good as new tomorrow.
===
165 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE GODLY CONNECTION IS STRONG IN THIS ONE
BEING OUTSIDE and unplugged is more than just an escape from "the real world". Most people in "modern society" rarely experience what that is like. We do because...
... that's where we thrive.
And, we're moving fast.
Even if we're practicing our craft daily,
and the whether is good,
we could use more.
Not less.
I experienced a snippet of much more on our road trip.
We took time to visit the land my greatgreatgrandfather homesteaded 100 years ago.
No one else was there but us.
Access is via a gravel road,
10 miles from a 2-lane highway.
No cell service.
The only inputs,
each other and nature.
The peace and solitude remarkable.
Over night, the temps dipped low enough to freeze the rain puddles from the prior evening.
We were cozy,
the van has a heater.
Still, when we rose to stretch and visit this hallowed land filled with childhood and parenthood memories...
... we were shocked by the reality of nature.
Not in a negative way,
one that makes you feel alive,
connected to more than a paycheck and bills.
To God.
To acquire the land...
- the extreme temps at 7000'
- the distance by horse or wagon to town
- the loneliness during the months no one came to visit
... E. M. Whiting had to stay on it and not leave, for two years.
How else could he make such a sacrifice if not feeling a closeness to his creator?
I feel it when I'm...
- there
- in the surf
- on our local trails
... and love it.
Need it.
And so...
- walk
- hike
- ride
- run
- surf
- swim
- camp
... we keep inviting and encouraging our friends to join us.
Outside.
===
164.2 lbs/12.6%
9ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
81/58/23 (fitness/fatigue/form) time to raise these numbers
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MIRROR, MIRROR, ON THE...
DISNEY CREATED AN EMPIRE animating fairytales. Because the appeal is so strong, with little to no cultural barriers we have to ask ourselves not just why, but...
... which is our favorite.
Then, why?
Personally, Cinderella is my top choice.
Not just the story arc,
the snappy dances,
or catchy songs.
There's an orphan in all of us.
Often we don't see who we really are,
out talents lying dormant.
Could be naysayers,
could be something else.
It's nice that Price Charming is a price,
it's charming that he sees Cinderella as she really is.
The point isn't...
- Where's my prince charming?
- Who will save the day for me?
- Why am I not picked?
... to wallow in our sorrows.
The point is for whom are we Prince Charming?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
9ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/67/16 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT’S IN OUR DNA
TOO FEW OF US know our family history. Some barely know cousins. Great-grandparents? Forget about it. It’s just not a thing. And, yet…
… what could be more important?
To know their stories,
is to know ourselves.
Which is why we drove hours out of our way after the bike race.
Here in eastern Arizona, to soak of our roots.
Surfergirl’s great-grandfather helped settle Snowflake,
my great-great grandfather helped settle Saint Johns.
They are neighboring towns,
about 20 miles apart.
And the communities were quite friendly with each other.
You’d think we grew up out here,
and that’s how we met and married.
Not so.
I was born and raised in SoCal,
she was raised in Hawaii.
Maybe somethings are meant to be.
But, that’s not really the point.
This is hard country,
the high desert.
To carve a life and community out of nothing took strength, smarts, and massive cooperation…
… the same qualities it takes to complete very challenging endurance events.
Who is an ancestor that inspires you?
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
86/87/-0 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANNA PUT A DENT IN THAT GIRL
IN THE HEAT OF BATTLE we can say and do the craziest things. You know things we might not normally say or do. And, at the time...
... they sound/seem totally normal.
Like today.
I had the awesome opportunity to flat 15 minutes into the 92 mile race...
... suddenly I'm swearing like a sailor.
It wasn't horrific,
still, glad no one was around.
Spent the next 50 miles basically riding by myself.
Doing my best.
Jumping from group to group.
I roll up on one of the female leaders,
bridge across to another badass Barbie.
And, I hear her say the funniest thing...
... I wanna put a dent in that girl.
Speaking of the other racer.
I visualize a halloween scene,
hatchet stuck in the helmet.
Hahaha.
Then the crass, neanderthal in me thinks...
... that sounds like something I'd like to do on date night.
Not the hatchet...
... if you know what I mean.
These crazy thoughts are birthed in our very depleted states, as we...
... do our best to stay upright and moving forward.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/89/-2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY WOULD ANYBODY GO TO DOUGLASS, AZ?
RACING VENUES ARE HARD TO COME BY, especially in big cities. Almost impossible. The result is the bigger the race, the more likely we are to travel...
... someplace we've never been.
Would never go.
Here I am,
two hours south of Tucson,
on the Mexican border, in Douglass, AZ.
This gravel race has the same vibe as my first Leadville,
back in '99.
Small town,
somewhat forgotten.
Which makes it a perfect place to stage a gravel race...
... surrounded my endless gravel roads.
I decided to sponsor the race for three reasons...
- Mike, the promoter, is hella nice and persistent.
- He's a huge fan of our products
- I'm a huge fan of gravel races
... which are the only reasons to sponsor anything.
Passion and admiration for what each other are doing.
Funny story.
I have actually been here before.
Back in the 80's.
I was doing missionary work in Mexico and our visas needed to be renewed. Five us youngsters piled in a van and hit to Agua Prieto, MX. The plan was to walk across to Douglass, wait five minutes and walk back with new visas.
We were greeted with...
... No, no gringo. No se puede asi. (Not so fast whitey, you can't do it like that.)
So we...
- spent the night in Motel 6
- chomped Pizza Hut
- watched ESPN
... forgot all our Spanish.
And crossed back the next day.
I'm guessing Borderlands gravel will be slightly more challenging.
Good night now.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6% (not sure, traveling)
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
83/64/18 (fitness/fatigue/form) ... somebody is tapered!
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HURRY UP
IN OUR EFFORTS TO GET FASTER, we often think of the many benefits. Mainly health, youthfulness. And truth is...
... we are better than most, not as good as some.
Who's better?
By that, do you mean...
... how could anybody be better???
We are aerobic machines, and that is a key to longevity.
Mostly.
Here are...
- Sprints
- Weights
... the missing ingredients.
I know, I know...
- sprinting sucks
- weights can be dangerous
- and, for the weenies in the back, who wants to gain weight?
... what you're thinking.
According to research, when we lift weights not only do our bones get denser but there are intra-muscular gains to be made that we cannot get any other way.
You know what else is weird, most people in our culture never sprint again after their early twenties.
So, here's the main takeaway from all scientific facts do 'em and...
... move faster, age slower.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
85/71/13 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GIVERS
THERE ARE THOSE WHO VOLUNTEER selflessly and those who volunteer selfishly. Both are admirable. In fact, when I was a race promoter it blew my mind that...
... people just reach out and offer their assistance.
Just giving where there's an obvious need.
I ran into a selfish one tonight.
The sun had set,
my headlight was on.
I was making my way cautiously because the ruts on this particular trail are bad and...
... there's an enormous sinkhole that might kill ya.
As a get there...
... did I say it was pitch dark?...
... a man is standing with a shovel in one hand and a trowel in the other.
Creepy?
Scary?
Nope, I knew what he was up to.
Not burying bodies...
... prepping the trail so when it rains this weekend the ruts will fill in.
I stopped.
Introduced myself.
Thanked him profusely.
No need, I just moved here and can't believe how lucky we are to have these trails right here. Just wanna make 'em perfect for my kids and me to ride on.
To which I could only say...
... Bro, you gotta let me make you a custom RaceDay Bag.
Is there a better gift?
===
165.8 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/5 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I THINK I VOIDED THE WARRANTY
LIVING IN THE ACTION SPORTS MECCA of the world, I'm surrounded and influenced by all manner of creative, ingenious athletes. We all feed off each other. My friend Kody...
... started making super aero computer mounts.
3D printed gloriousness.
My new MTB was in need.
I reached out.
Got a mount for Roval bars?
Yes.
Cool, I'll get one.
We haven't tested for lights yet.
He thought I was asking for my road bike.
So yeah...
- the road mount is super aero
- looks freakin' awesome
- supports a light
... survived and thrived on first MTB ride.
Did my evil test void the warranty?
I dunno.
But, this is...
- come up product ideas
- make it
- test it
... what we do around here.
Here's a ink to his site: https://nanoworx.shop
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/85/2 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DO YOU KNOW YOUR GOLDILOCKS NUMBER?
WE ARE ALL SEARCHING for that magic number of hours to maximize our training. You know, the Goldilocks amount. Not too little. Not too much...
... the perfect amount of work.
I know where it is.
You do to.
Look back over the year.
Find the week that didn't wreck you, the...
- hours
- distance
- intensity
... I can do this every week.
Bonus/verification if you had any...
- Segments
- PWR
- HR
... PRs the following week(s)?
That's your Goldilocks number.
Mine's about...
- saddle time
- bit of strength work
- some sort of other fun
... 13 hours/week.
What's yours?
===
164.8 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
88/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU GET 1 WISH
2026 WILL BE HERE soon enough. Many of us are already planning work, vacations, family time...
... and, yes, races.
You get 1 wish.
Here it is...
- lay out your Giant RaceDay Calendar
- scour the interwebs for races
- pick one, and do it
... no limitations.
Imagine it...
- Anywhere on this giant blue marble.
- Any time of the year
- Dream equipment
- Fantastic lodging
- Clear schedule
... and ask yourself.
If not this year...
... when?
'Cause here's the deal, if we only did one race next year...
... we could probably make it happen.
It's just a mental game, play it out, and let me know...
... where, when and why.
Me personally, my top choices...
- Gravel Burn, South Africa
- Oregon Trail
- Rebecca's Private Idaho
... are gravel stage races.
Gravel Burn looks insane.
===
You do have a Giant RaceDay Calendar, right?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
===
164.4 lbs/12.5%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
89/91/-3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE REBEL ALLIANCE IS GROWING
EVERY NOW AND THEN a new format or race or course or piece of equipment comes along with promises to change everything. Except hardly anything changes...
... until something sparks.
How does that work?
Like this.
About 10 years ago, I purchased my first gravel bike.
My friends, like me, were roadies and mountain bikers.
A gravel bike seemed like the worst of both worlds.
I got it,
understood where they were coming from.
Except, I was having so dang much fun...
... I didn't care.
I just kept riding gravel,
inviting my friends,
enduring their
mockery.
It wasn't overnight,
more like overdecade.
The last two Saturdays, most telling.
Eight days ago, an absolute shredder on a mountain bike shows up on a spanking new gravel bike.
30 minutes in, he's grinning and shouting...
... This looks so wrong, but gadang it's fun!
Today, another pal shows up for his first group gravel ride.
He's gifted off road, we spent years riding motos in the desert...
... We're going 30+ miles an hour, I can't believe how much ground we can cover!
Does that mean you should be riding gravel, too?
Maybe.
But, really, it's just a lesson in how things that are worthwhile spread.
Then again...
... What did the gravel bike say to the road bike?
I am your father.
===
165.6 lbs/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
0 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
90/105/-15 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FAMOUS COACHES ARE GETTING FIRED RIGHT AND LEFT
IN PRO SPORTS, or high level amateur, there is always a spot light on the coaches. At some point, blame or credit lands...
... squarely on their shoulders.
Should it?
I do love to follow college football...
- the emotional swings
- the athleticism
- the stadiums
... so much energy and unpredictablity.
Who would have thought so many megamilliondollar...
... coaches would be punted this year.
Mid-season.
The great Seth Godin wrote The Gap.
The idea behind the book is when we find ourselves unable to close the gap to our goal...
... the sooner we decide to quit and move on, the better.
It might be a pro gambling tactic as well...
... but, the only gambling I do is putting my heart, soul and cash into this business.
Anyway, would you have/have you had the guts...
... to change directions, and how quickly would you do it?
===
163.6 lbs/12.4%
7.5 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CHOOSE WORTHY ADVERSARIES
WHAT IS IT ABOUT LOVING UNDERDOGS? It's so uniquely American. Is it our origin story, the DNA of our culture...
... to cheer for the fighter with no chance?
Honestly.
Who can't feel a bit of their own soul being crushed with every blow the awesome Apollo Creed delivers to a...
... bloodied, bruised, crushed Rocky Balboa?
We've all been in that arena.
Had the bell ring.
Still standing.
Somehow.
We humans thrive against overwhelming adversaries...
- inspiration
- desperation
- exasperation
... oozing with confidence and power.
When our all is required,
we discover who we really are.
As the great Kierkegaard said...
... What doesn't kill me makes me stronger.
===
164.6 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/88/-1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MY TOP 5 SPEED HACKS
FOR MOST OF US, going faster, getting better, has less to do with a fancy new gizmo or the latest training fad. We know that...
... but, what are doing about it?
Like the Mastercard ad says...
... some things are priceless.
Here are five...
- Sleep
- Nutrition
- Strength
- Maintenance
- Consistency
... anybody can do.
These are my hacks.
Sleep.
Figure out when we want to wake up. Get in bed 8 hours prior to that. Stay there until it's time. Eventually, our bodies get the hang of it, and boom... we're sleep doping.
Nutrition.
Eat clean. No packaged foods. If we can't identify the ingredients, we don't consume it.
Strength.
Do the basics, at home. We don't have time to drive to the gym. No need to do all the sets at once, break 'em up throughout the day. Hardly any equipment is needed: pull up bar, a few dumbbells (adjustables for the win).
Maintenance.
New equipment is so nice because it is all tight and precise. Flawless maintenance will keep that new equipment performance for years, and we'll always be race ready.
Consistency.
If we always train at the same time magic happens. Those around us learn and appreciate our commitment. We get it done. Always.
A final word.
I was never the best athlete. Not among my friends, and certainly not at school or among the general population.
I was never picked first, couldn't aim or hit anything regularity.
I wasn't the bravest or most daringist.
I did have one thing going for me...
... I freakin' loved being outside and being challenged by nature.
Today, I'm probably better than almost all my contemporaries.
That's not a flex, it's just happens.
They quit.
Which brings us to the top two hacks of all time...
... commitment and passion.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
√ Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls, Split Squats
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU'VE LOST THAT AWESOME FEELING... GET IT BACK!
THERE'S A CERTAIN SOMETHING we feel during the early days of picking up our passion. It's tangible. We can taste it. We love it...
... that's how we got here.
I'd lost it.
Over the last couple of years, drunk with stupid stats from Training Peaks and Starva...
- more time
- more miles
- more climbing
... I found myself wallowing in fatigue.
Don't get me wrong.
I'd line up, or roll out with the pals, and, though I might be quick to drift back...
... the ability to endure for hours was ridiculous.
Something snapped.
Or, lightning struck.
I dunno.
But, a few weeks ago, I woke up and said...
Screw it!
I'm cutting down the long slogs...
... and bringing back sprint days.
2-3 hours became 90 minutes.
With 10-15 VO2 max efforts,
lasting 10 seconds to 5 minutes.
I'm super fortunate to live close to trails with a lot of straight up and straight down...
... I let the terrain dictate how long the sprint lasts.
Then, focus on my DH skills...
... coasting, staying off the brakes, carving and carrying speed.
The upshot, after 90 minutes and 10+ solid efforts?
I feel amazing,
not pooped.
Sprinting engages all our muscles and focus...
... a total mind, body soul work out.
Soul?
Yeah, trust me.
Do 'em right, and you'll see stars and feel God's presence could be imminent.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
No PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises
No Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
90 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/83/3(fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
YOU CAN'T GROW A BEARD OVERNIGHT
WE WANNA BE FASTER. Right now. Not this season, not this month, not this week, not today. Right now...
... 300 meters from the finish line.
Houston, we have a problem.
Go ahead.
We forgot to add fuel to the return booster.
Sucks to be you.
Yeah.
We can't grow a beard overnight.
A good one, for some of us...
... can take months.
If we wanna be fast in the final sprint,
if we wanna negative split the course...
... we gotta put in the work before we need the result.
===
164.3 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
30 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/82/4 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CULTURE WARS
THERE ARE TWO TYPES OF TRAINING groups. Both extend invitations...
... the similarities stop there.
One culture assures...
- everyone is ready to start together
- there are plenty of stops
- nobody gets left behind
... fairness and concern.
The other demands...
- leaving on time
- no stopping
- no waiting
... rugged individuals.
The group we...
- join
- create
- help grow
... depends on the result we are looking for.
===
165.2 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
√ PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
180 minutes Reading/Journaling
87/86/1 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DIRT WORLD PROBLEMS
EVERY SURFACE HAS it's challenges. Add in the weather, how we approach things...
... changes quickly.
Super mist.
The normally grippy sidewalk we were slaying to meet the rest of the crew, was not only glazed with moisture...
... bright green moss screamed Slow down and do not lean over.
We ain't rookies,
not a problem.
It was so misty, the glasses were tucked away.
The late Fall moon dust covering most of our trails and roads...
- forks
- shins
- lenses
... quickly 3D prints on to everything.
Bombing the first downhill...
- nearly 40mph
- no brakes
- 1 minute
... the dust and pebbles flying up stinging our eyes.
Two choices:
Wear the glasses,
blurry, smudgy vision.
Wear no protection,
smoke your corneas or contacts.
When the sun finally burned through,
I grabbed my glasses from my jersey pocket...
... they were covered in sweat.
lol
Truly, dirt world challenges.
===
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===
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===
164.4 lbs/12.5%
8 hours sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Rows, Shoulder Presses, Heel Raises, Calf Raises, Box Jumps, Dead Lifts, Nordic Curls
10 minutes stretching
60 minutes Reading/Journaling
90/99/-10 (fitness/fatigue/form)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SHIFTING JUST TO KEEP UP
May 18, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
I'D RATHER BE EXCLUDED THAN INCLUDED
May 17, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
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ALWAYS EAT WHEN YOU CAN
May 16, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
ABOUT THAT NEW TANDEM
May 15, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
SOMEWHERE FAR ALONG THIS ROAD
May 14, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
I CAN NEITHER CONFIRM NOR DENY
May 13, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
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%
---
167 lbs
Paddle Surf
7.7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5290780876
DOES BRAD PITT REALLY RACE BICYCLES?
May 12, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
SERIOUSLY HOOKED.
May 11, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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...
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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...
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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.
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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
I'M GOING TO MAKE IT
May 10, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
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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
THE HEART OF THE MATTER IN QUESTION
May 09, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
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---
164.2 lbs
Hypervolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5269994576
THE RISE OF PETER THE GREAT AND NEAR FALL OF YOURS DIESEL
May 08, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
WHY BIKE RACING TV STRUGGLES
May 07, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THE GREATEST RECOVERY SONG EVER
May 06, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
---
164.2 lbs
morning paddle
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5254546746
IT'S RISKY.
May 05, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
DON'T YOU KNOW THE HEART RATES... GOING UP, UP, UP, UP!
May 04, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
WEAPONIZED TRAINING FOR DUMMIES
May 03, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
TRANSFORMATIVE TRAINING.
May 02, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
A SWEET DISCOVERY YOU'LL WANT TO TRY
May 01, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
PRERIDING BWR CEDAR CITY
Apr 30, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
ARE WE FASTER YET?
Apr 29, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
PERCEIVED EXERTION AND OTHER SILLYNESS
Apr 28, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
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.
---
165.3 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt.
8hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5210945328
ON AND OFF... THE MORBID WAY TO REALLY LIVE
Apr 27, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
LIGHTS OUT!
Apr 26, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THE TRUTH ABOUT PUTTING IN THE WORK.
Apr 25, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
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%.
---
165.3
Stretch and Hypervolt.
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/5192575707
JUST A SPOONFUL OF PAIN...
Apr 24, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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... AND THE OTHER F WORD.
Apr 23, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THE FAMOUS RULE NUMBER 4.
Apr 22, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
- Stay at the back.
- To be smooth, never stop pedaling even when braking (beginners only)
- 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?
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.
---
163.4 lbs
Stretch and Hypervolt
7.5hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5175553453
JACK OF ALL TRAILS, MASTER OF NONE
Apr 21, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
PAINESIA - IT'S REAL, AND I HAVE PROOF
Apr 20, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
Apr 19, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
GET READY FOR BIKECOIN
Apr 18, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THE PRICE OF ADMISSION
Apr 17, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
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.
---
166.9 lbs
Beach walk
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5144174641
I SWORE I'D NEVER HUNKR AGAIN
Apr 16, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
OUR NORTH STAR
Apr 15, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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.
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.
---
164.5 lbs
Paddleboard in the morning
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5134471558
IS THAT YOUR ELBOW OR ARE YOU JUST HAPPY TO SEE ME?
Apr 14, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THEY JUST AREN'T AS GOOD
Apr 13, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
YEAH, I'M TOTALLY IN2 THAT.
Apr 12, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THE UNSLAYABLE DEMON: FIGHT AT YOUR OWN PERIL
Apr 11, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
EVERYBODY IS SO NICE, WHEN THEY HAVE A HATCHET IN HAND
Apr 10, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THE LAST SUPPER OF SORTS
Apr 09, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
HOW TO DRAMATICALLY IMPROVE YOUR RACE WATCHING EXPERIENCE
Apr 08, 2021
by TODD BROWN
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
THIS (THIS RIGHT HERE) IS HOW WE DO IT
Apr 07, 2021
by TODD BROWN
IF I COULD OVEREMPHASIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF RIDING WITH OTHERS, believe me I would. I can't. It's impossible. I've tried. But, there are still riders who insist they'll get better and improve by Doing my intervals man! They're wrong...
... and I think they know it.
There's nothing better than rolling out with a group of riders with the goal of whooping up on each other, because nothing pushes us like chasing a rabbit and not being caught if we are the rabbit.
The challenge, of course, is getting the ride going if you can't find one.
There are 5 keys:
- Start on time.
- Leave from the same place.
- Do NOT wait for anybody, ever, as a group.
- Keep inviting.
- Keep doing it.
The last two are the secret sauce. It's not gonna happen over night. It will take commitment and promotion. Keep inviting everyone you meet and keep doing it.
We've started this new MTB Hot Laps on Wednesday nights. It's still small, and we don't want it to get too big. Max 20. Tonight we had 8.
I know we'll get it where we want it.
I wonder how many other movements and traditions are started like this?
I bet you can name a few.
Just like I'll bet you'll go a lot faster if you lather up with PR Lotion.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
And, I'll even wager you'll want to get in on this deal... which includes FREE Shipping
Purchase AMP PR Lotion by 4/9, and we'll include 2 of the Clearly Awesome water bottles.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
---
164.7
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5088257980
THE SNEAKY ART OF HEADSET ADJUSTMENTS
Apr 06, 2021
by TODD BROWN
FOR SURE YOU DON'T WANT A TIGHT HEADSET. It makes steering difficult and riding with no hands dangerous if not impossible. But it doesn't stop there, because if you're a coy rider...
... it's really fun to mess with someone's head.
Would I ever do that?
In a race?
Well, yeah. For sure. Sometimes ya gotta dig deep...
... inside your opponent's helmetcovered head.
I think it was in some LeMond book where I read about faking tired when feeling good and it's equally sneaky twin faking good when feeling terrible.
Then there's faking like you don't know what you're doing so racers steer clear and don't pay you any attention.
It's endless really, however we were talking about some of our favorites last weekend and I shared one that can be really devastating.
Will I share it with you?
Sure... why not.
We're friends.
It's this one, and it only works on a really long and miserable day. The kind of day I might have this weekend.
Just imagine you're 80% into the race. Conditions are very challenging. Wind. Dust. Heat.
It's just you and one other cat.
Trust me this works better than you'd think.
Hey, how are you feeling?
That's it.
Just leave it hanging.
No need to follow up.
That cat heard you and is thinking...
It's not like popping their tire. It's more like a pin hole, and the air slowly starts to seep out.
Which is one reason I've switched completely to tubeless tires. Because with tubeless tires and sealant no pin hole is gonna slow us down. Glass and grit and rocks. I laugh at them now. Well, not totally... I just don't fear them like I did.
On the road, I'm loving the Pirelli P Zero SLs.
Gravel, the Pirelli Cinturato.
MTB, Continental Cross King up front and Race King on the rear.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-tires
We have a whole slew of tires in stock.
Use promo code TODDSTIRES
To save 20%... the code expires 4/8/21.
---
166.7
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.4 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5080277077
3 THINGS YOU DON'T WANNA BE DOING: BURPING, PINCHING AND ROLLING
Apr 05, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I PLAY WITH MY AIR PRESSURE CONSTANTLY. I test low pressure vs high pressure, to try and figure out the optimum for the kinds of conditions I'll be racing on. There's no easy answer...
... though the trend towards lower and lower pressure is winning me over.
But, you can go too low. Even with the tubeless setups I'm riding, there's a point of negative returns.
The problem is there's only one way to find out if you've gone too low...
... and that is going to failure.
What kind of failure?
It ranges from burping to pinching to rolling.
Burping is landing so hard some of the air in your tire escapes.
Pinching is hitting a sharp object so hard the tire gets pinched against the rim and tears.
Rolling is the worst. That's where you land or corner so hard the tire rolls off the rim and a terrible crash ensues.
One friend burped his tire after overjumping a landing, missing the gentle slope and hitting the side of the berm that followed.
I pinched ripping over a section of mini tombstones.
My was able to keep riding. You can do that on a burp, but it slows you down until you put in more air.
I had to stop and jam a plug into the tear before filling the tire back up with CO2.
I'm not sure what pressure my friend was running, but I was down to 18lbs in the rear tire. For me, over that harsh terrain, that was too low in my 2.2 MTB tires.
When doing this kind of testing we have to be very precise.
Can't go on feel.
Can't be using different pumps.
That's why I use a digital gauge. And why that gauge is either by my floor pump or in my RaceDay Bag™.
It makes a difference.
This is the one we trust.
It's compact, and very reliable.
Use Promo Code: AIRCHECK
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166.9
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5074751057
JUMPING THE BIGGEST GAP
Apr 04, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS THIS HUGE GAP WE ARE TRYING TO JUMP. To get across we've got to be moving fast enough, with the correct attitude and enough altitude, to land it safely...
... and keep shredding what lies ahead.
But the biggest gap we'll ever jump is the one from our nature to our potential.
It takes real guts.
Deep commitment.
Patience and practice.
Jumping anything is one of the best feelings ever because of the fear and danger and giant reward when we land it.
My nature is ice cream and tv.
My potential...
... that's the only path I want to ride.
Every day,
every single day,
really is raceday.
I just love these hats.
- They are light, and cool on my sweaty, post ride helmet head.
- Motivational to me and all those who see it.
- A secret code only we understand.
Not a hat cat?... then maybe this hat isn't for you, but for a friend who is.
---
166.9 (definitely been letting my nature rule my diet this week, ugh!)
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5071162285
TAKING TURNS.
Apr 03, 2021
by TODD BROWN
OUR LITTLE RACE CREW HAS BEEN KEEN TO CORNER BETTER ON MTBs. Enter better, carve better, exit faster. Playing with braking evenly between front and rear, and just going heavy on the rear brakes to whip the bike around turns...
... to no brakes at all.
A wrong turn can be corrected. A missed turn can be catastrophic.
An unnamed rider (gotta protect the innocent) and I were quickly slicing and dicing a narrow, twisty path. I took the sweeping left berm high, he shot inside and low to slip by me...
... no brakes for either of us...
... the trail wound sharply back to the right, my tire compressed and the nobs gripped as I leaned over...
... dust was flying up from his skidding rear tire as he went off trail, down the slope, and over the bars.
It was a soft landing.
This ain't basketball, where a miss is just a chance to shoot again.
This is what we do to get better. We play, we take chances.
But you know what blows me away? It's how we learn to rely so completely on our equipment. I mean the brakes, I'm modulating them with one finger. Those tires, they're 2" wide with 20lbs of air...
... and then there are the gloves, a very thin layer of perforated leather covered with much, much thinner lycra.
That's it: brakes, tires, gloves.
Which is exactly why I never skimp on my equipment. There are too many variables to assess and address when on the edge, and no bandwidth to contemplate product failure.
Of course all this was discussed over tacos and Cokes...
... because if we're not reviewing the wrong and missed turns we'll just keep making and missing them...
... and some landings are harder than others.
In case you missed it, we're supporting jeremy's effort to raise Autism Awareness through the weekend.
We'll make an additional contribution to Jeremy's effort by donating 30% of the sales on any glove and sock purchases.
To make it extra sweet for you use this code to get matching socks for free. This is a worthy cause... be sure to order the gloves and the socks and use this code:
BuyGlovesGetSocks
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
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166.9 (too much cake)
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5063581918
ROUND AND ROUND
Apr 02, 2021
by TODD BROWN
I KNEW RIGHT FROM THE BEGINNING, right from the start, this was gonna be a great day. Weather perfect, check. Apple fritter waiting for me in the kitchen, check. MTBs ready to rip, check. Jeremy doing 54 1.5 mile laps for Autism Awareness...
... on a super fun loop, CHECK!
When we dig into the secret sauce of a successful charity event, there are a key ingredients but only one that really matters.
Is it the course? Well, yeah it's good to have a course that is fun and interesting.
Is it the awards and recognition? For sure, a lot energy gets put behind being the top fundraiser or finisher or whatev'.
Is it the after party? Always important.
What truly matters is that the person doing the fund raising is the type of person others want to get behind. Kind, generous, friendly...
... and heart in the right place.
I'm fortunate to see a lot of people doing rides as fundraisers, either as participants or organizers. In every case, the most successful ones are the coolest people you'll ever meet.
Through the weekend, we'll make an additional contribution to Jeremy's effort by donating 30% on any glove and sock purchases.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
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163.8
Quick PullUps and PushUps
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5057715675
THAT ANNUAL EXCUSE TO DO WHATEVER THE WE WANT
Apr 01, 2021
by TODD BROWN
ONCE A YEAR WE GET ASKED THAT QUESTION: What are you going to do on your birthday? I mean, really? C'mon. Is it even a question?..
... those that know me best ask different questions.
Who are you riding with?
What time are you riding?
Where are your riding?
When will you be back?
... but nobody asks Why are you riding?
If they did, it's Because I can.
Learning to ride a bike is like a right of passage. It was hard to take those training wheels off and go...
... and then it wasn't.
Suddenly we were free to go wherever we wanted, whenever we wanted, with whoever wanted...
... kinda like a birthday every day.
So, yeah, I'll be riding my bike tomorrow.
With my friend Jeremy, who is riding for Autism Awareness. He's riding 54 1.5 mile laps because 1 in 54 children develop autism. That's the kind of guy I want to ride with. Total stud.
In celebration, I'll make an additional donation 30% of any glove and sock purchases through the weekend.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
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164.8
Stretch and Plank
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/505293047
THE FASTEST WAY TO IMPROVE
Mar 31, 2021
by TODD BROWN
DID YOU EVER NOTICE HOW DIFFERENT WE ARE? Not you and me, us and them. The pros. There's the Godgiven differences, can't do anything about that...
... but what about the things we can do something about?
Let's leave buying speedier equipment aside for the moment. Too obvious.
Instead, take this insane workout from Nino Schurter. He's a multi-time MTB World Champion and he's showing all the world, even us verymortals, how to be strong. It's a 27 minute workout. Who doesn't have 27 minutes? Watch here.
Here's another. Chris Froome's shedding of 20 lbs and going from zero to hero. We can get a glimpse of how he did that. Cutting the carbs, upping the protein. It's very straight forward. Who couldn't drop a few lbs by skipping a few carbs? Details here.
Do they tell us everything? No.
Should we do all they do? Doubtful.
Could we get better by studying what makes us different? Hellyeah.
Which brings me to my point. My pal Bart, in the 5 years of I've known him, has gone from a sub-9 hour Leadville guy to a card-carrying professional body builder to a champion calf roper. He's nuts...
... but he has a method we could all use more.
When he sets his mind on something he seeks out the very best people that he can find and studies everything they do. He hires the best mentors he can find. This singlemindedness and alignment with the top pros allows him to do in a couple of years what most people never accomplish in a life time.
Wanna get better?...
... that right there is a very solid formula.
But, don't it all go to your head or you might not be to fit that expanded cranium inside one of these amazing helmets.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
If I had to pick one, it would be the Protone for sure. Light, aero, super comfy.
Use this promo code to save 10% and get free shipping.
MENTORS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
165.3
Lots of pullups, pushups, squats and shoulder presses today - Nino style
7.8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5047341440
I DID THIS BECAUSE I WAS HUNGRY, RIDING IN A FARAWAY LAND
Mar 30, 2021
by TODD BROWN
THIS IS JUST ONE OF THOSE FREE ADVICE THINGIES about a little hack I came up with last week while riding ill prepared. Starving. Near bonking. I had a couple of bucks. There was a store...
... but I was missing the mandatory you know what.
Rats!
The sign was quite large indicating it was definitely required, and the crowd of people enjoying savory snacks had plenty of willing witnesses.
I had to comply...
... but how?
Surveying my my gear I did the obvious. Grabbed a glove, stuck it on my nose, draped the opening over my mouth, and held it in place with my Oakleys.
Just like that, I marched in and got my fix.
Hopefully you won't find yourself in a similar situation.
You're smarter, I'm sure. Better prepared, for sure.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
You probably roll out with a few waffles just in case... which I did, just needed more.
Use promo code FARAWAY
To save 10% and get free shipping.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/nutrition
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166.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/5038178322
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