I DO NOT THINK YOU KNOW THE MEANING OF THAT ZONE
THERE ARE FEW GUARANTEES IN LIFE. One, however, is a lock. Invite your veryfast friends to do a recon ride where everybody is "committed" to ride zone two. Then...
... let the mayhem unfold.
Here's the bad and the good of it.
I felt bad right away.
Yes, I was suffering, sure.
But I was really feeling bad for all the suckers like me who thought this would be chill with a few efforts.
Instead, the first three hours...
... was one massive effort.
- 248 watts normalized power
- Average HR 150 bpm
- 3000' elevation gain
Probably nothing for you,
definitely something for me.
The gravel roads are shift right now.
Ruts all over the place,
stutter bumps everywhere else.
Fortunately, I decided to do some tire pressure testing today.
I aired down.
26 lbs vs my normal 30 up front.
28 lbs vs my normal 32 in back.
I rimmed out a handful of times, both wheels.
Mainly sharp edges or rocks.
Tires held up great - Conti Terra Speed 45s.
I think I can go lower.
No doubt when the trails are as nasty as they are it is muchmuch faster.
I also tested having breakfast before riding.
What?
Yeah, true.
I usually wake up at the last second and eat as soon as I start riding.
This morning, I was so excited I woke with tons of time.
A full hour.
I fired up a bowl of oatmeal,
dropped in frozen blueberries,
plus macadamia nuts for some fat.
It stayed down great.
Shocking given the hideous zone too-dang-fast we were pushing.
Definitely going to try that again because I felt really good.
That's it...
... hope your weekend is epic.
---
---
165.1
7.5 hrs sleep
PullUps and PushUps only
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
89 (fitness still down 30% from last year, and darn happy to be back at it)
>
HOW DO YOU STACK UP?
BEING A COMMITTED ATHLETE pays all kinds of dividends. Which is cool. What's cooler is deconstructing what we do and...
... seeing how we stack up.
Not against each other.
Just riding
or running
or swimming
won't do it.
For example, we also...
- Eat
- Sleep
- Maintain our equipment
- Study the latest info
- Might have a coach
- Make sure we have proper fit of all our gear
- Fine tune our body mechanics
- Get as aero as possible
- Test hardware
- Train with other committed athletes
- Challenge ourselves, long and short-term
- Have our "day jobs" squared away and thriving
- Prioritize family and friends
... and all that plus a lot more stacks,
compounds and
combines.
What can we add, refine, improve so we are truly...
... Ready To Rip On RaceDay.
...
By the way, I'm getting ready to launch dog tags with one of our sayings on one side and personal info on the other.
Would you like to know when they are ready?
---
165.5
8.5 hrs sleep
PullUps and PushUps only
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
82
>
IN A MOOD FOR VIOLENCE
IT'S BEEN JUST OVER TWO MONTHS since being able to start training after my mishap. Prior to that, it was 6 weeks off the bike or anything but walking...
... my fitness was zip.
Why do base at all?
Because I was effectively starting from zero.
Sure, I had decades of consistent riding, running, etc. But, I couldn't just jump right back into it.
I needed to give my body a break...
... and a chance to recalibrate.
It's been fun.
I've been able to do some group rides...
... hanging on, then getting dropped.
Base training is good for that, for building the aerobic engine.
It's not good for putting a sting into our efforts...
... or responding in kind.
That only comes from...
- Intervals
- Racing
... there's no other way.
The racing could be the kind where we pin a number on, spicy group rides, or getting after PRs.
The intervals, well there's a million ways to flog ourselves doing those.
In short,
we gotta do the explosive efforts.
There's no way around it.
It's not for everyone.
Only those who want to find out what they're really capable of.
Me, I'm targeting two days a week for the carnage.
Tuesdays.
Saturdays.
The key to success will be...
... showing up fresh, in a mood for violence.
---
165.1
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
83
>
JUST BELIEVE THIS ONE FACT
THERE ARE ALL KINDS OF THEORIES: The Big Bang, Evolution, Creationism, even The Simulation. No matter which one, if any, you subscribe to...
... one fact remains.
This body is the only one we got.
I dunno why people treat 'em so badly.
Heck I've done plenty of bad myself.
But, there's nothing like racing to keep me on track.
Even just racing myself,
my times.
No matter what your beliefs...
... these bodies do their best when we eat clean.
Of course, there are a million beliefs on what that entails.
I keep it simple.
- No processed foods
- As much fresh veggies and berries as possible
- Plenty of protein
- Plenty of water
That's my belief of what actually works...
... and I think it's a fact.
Because every day we are building our bodies, it's important to remember...
... Every Day Is RaceDay.
---
167.1
8 hrs Sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
83
>
WITH ALL THY FITNESS, GET...
IS THERE MORE TO RACING, than racing? Well, yeah. Of course. A lot more, the only question is are we taking advantage of the opportunities. As the wise one said...
... With all thy fitness, get adventurous.
By that, I don't mean in a racy way.
The point is to go somewhere,
do something new,
unattempted.
We've got the fitness,
which too few people actually have,
so we can accomplish what most cannot fathom to attempt.
So, what's it gonna be...
- Ride across the country
- Travel to a remote destination
- Run the Grand Canyon rim to rim
- Go from hut to hut in Colorado
... pick something.
What's holding us back...
- A tour guide
- Language barriers
- Support in case things go wrong
... nothing that can't be solved.
Do it.
---
166.7
7 hrs Sleep
Pullups and Pushups
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
82
Tell us about it.
>
H0W ARE THEY SO EXPLOSIVE?
OK, WE GET IT THAT PROS ARE FASTER. Right? But, how they heck are they so explosive without racing? Asking for a friend, myself, and...
... anybody forced to train alone.
We gotta know.
- Personally, I enjoy the solitude.
- Others don't near other riders or group rides
- And, then there's those who's with uncooperative schedules
How are the outstanding pros doing it?
Not racing,
showing up and slaughtering their competition.
Intervals?
Well, personally I can't stand intervals for more than a few weeks without...
... wanting to take a hammer to my bike computer.
Riding and racing with the teammates?
That makes a little more sense, but only a little. Who wants to drill or get drilled by their trusted allies?
Way more rested?
Mmmmmaybe the non-racing leads to a more rested and ready body?
Healthier?
Because they aren't traveling so much:
- They aren't picking up colds and flues.
- They aren't eating whatever they can find.
- They aren't taking such large risks as when racing
E-racing?
Are they just getting on a trainer and duking it out with the online competition? If they are, don't they need to have fake profiles for privacy as well as less fitness?
Virtual racing?
Setting up race course segments on Strava and trying to beat the PRs?
I dunno, for me...
... ain't nothing like the real thing.
---
166.2
8 hrs Sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
80
>
GETTING PUSHED AROUND IN THE GROUP
THE RIDE WAS GETTING SPICEY. The pace increasing considerably, and the terrain going from flat to sawtooth. The legs were screaming, and...
... and I was moving backwards.
Then, it happened.
Just before the apex of quick power climb,
just when I needed it most...
... my pal, The Gambler, gave me some pedal assist.
Yep, he had the gaul to put his paws on my lycra and pushed me some.
And I loved it.
It was just the right amount
to keep me on.
Sly enough I quietly thought and hoped...
... Maybe nobody noticed.
That's thing about needing help.
When we could really use some,
we don't ask.
Good givers, like The Gambler, don't ask...
... the just give.
Without making a big deal about it.
---
165.8
9 hrs Sleep
No Strengthwork today
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
80
>
SHOULD WE LEARN TO TUMBLE?
LIKE MOST OF US, we have a group of regular riders. So far, 3 of the 10 of us have broken bones this year. One hit a tree skiing, one crossed wheels today...
... and, well, you know my saga.
I was off the back over the top,
and rolled up on the mishap.
If you're a real rider,
you've broken your collar bone.
Ok, I don't know if that's 100% true.
But, I have broken one,
while riding.
So, it's common.
And I gotta ask...
... Should we take tumbling lessons?
Would it help?
Would it keep us from doing the natural thing vs...
... rolling out of danger?
Maybe, sometimes.
Not a guarantee,
perhaps a skill worth...
- learning
- practicing
- investigating
... got a thought on this?
---
166.7
7.5ish hrs Sleep
No Strengthwork today
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
82
>
IS THIS THE BEST RIDE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA?
IMAGINE A RIDE THAT FEATURES all the beauty and wonder of Southern California. The beaches, the shaded prairies, the tall forests with ski runs...
... covering all of it in a single day.
Oh, and almost no traffic.
Impossible you say.
Not.
100% possible.
It took us years to scout it.
Here are some pics from 2023... route below.
Here's the route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3216181932420212282
It's 120 miles, 15000' of climbing.
We start at Doheny State Beach and wind up in Big Bear, refueling at convenience stores and restaurants along the way.
It's almost all dirt most to Corona, then a 35-mile bike trail across the Inland Empire. At the bottom of the mountains, we jump on an abandoned logging road, and it's nearly all dirt to the top, and down into Big Bear.
Epic.
Insanely epic.
Are you game for the ride of the year?
Click here: https://pedalindustries.com/products/free-registration-for-the-surf-n-summit-california-5-18-24
---
Some of the FAQ's from a Zoom call yesterday.
Logistics:
1. Where to stay Friday Night? Dinner plans? Stay as close as you can to Dana Point, where we start… it’s only a few minutes drive to my house. We’ll have dinner at my place and go over last minute specifics.
2. Ride start time? Official Start is 6am, I highly recommend slower riders leave earlier to make sure we all get to Colton at the same time for the flat 35 miles across the Inland Empire – much easier in a group.
3. Where can we store bags? My van… Susie will drive it to Big Bear.
4. Confirm - unsupported? Any plan B options for repairs, crashes, etc.? It’s self-supported, be prepared.
a. Anyone we can hire to assist? Is there a way to transport overnight bag? Susie will drive it to Big Bear.
5. Big Bear
a. Anyone staying the night? TBD on this.
b. Transporation back to Orange County? TBD on this. Some ride back, some Uber back. We need a final head count.
5. Snow blocking trails? Currently yes, but it’s getting warmer and it’s a south facing climb, we should be fine.
People
1. How many people are coming and their capabilities? Unknown, people always commit and don’t show, others never commit and just show up.
a. We are locomotives not goats:). Likelihood of creating riding groups of different speeds (any forecasted pacing / finish times)? For sure start early, and KNOW HOW TO UPLOAD A ROUTE to your device. Any regrouping points? One for sure, in Colton at a convenience store… depending on pace, we might all meet up at Seven Oaks restaurant about 1/3 up the climb… some of us will do some extra climbing and single track at end of 35 mile bike trail, others will go straight to the climb, which is why we might end up there at roughly same time.
Nutrition
1. Where are the nutrition and water stops? ONeil Park is about 2 hours in, a campground with water and bathrooms. Do NOT dillydally at any stops. Next stop is Colton, about 4 hours away. These are my estimates for your speed.
2. Water stops on the final climb or is two bottles sufficient? At Seven Oaks restaurant, we can get water, soda, hamburgers, fries… depending on heat, 2-3 bottles. My bike holds 3.
3. Nutrition recommendations? 300-400 calories per hour. Whatever you like and sits well in your stomach. I like CarboRocket, 333 calories/bottle.
Equipment
1. Tire recommendation? I am running Continental Terra Speed 45s, with 32lbs in the rear, 28 in the front. Lots and lots of sealant before we roll.
What are the gravel sections like? Pretty nice, a little more rutted from rain run-off, but totally 100% ridable and fun. There’s a little single track where trail is currently flooded close to the start.
2. Other gear that would be helpful (e.g. hydration pack, lights). Lights for sure, early start, and maybe a late finish. Be able to carry 3 large bottles worth of water. Get a BLACK mosquito net, bugs can be nasty… we learned the hard way that the white nets reflect light which was blinding as the sun was setting.
3. Clothing recommendations? (Temp change to expect)? May is a tricky month, I’ll carry my KOM Jacket which is great for wind and water and small enough to go in my Barrito Bag … my bike will have a Barrito for the KOM jacket, and food and drink mix supplies in my Day Ripper bag. Only other item I’d carry would be arm warmers… but highly unlikely we’ll need them. My Wahoo died 30 minutes from the top… bring a battery booster.
---
166
7.5ish hrs Sleep
Pushups and Pullups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
78
>
ARE YOU STRONG ENOUGH TO BE...
I POLLED THE RIPPERS and 100% of them lift weights or do resistance exercise year round. Well, I was shocked by that. I had no idea if we rubbing off on each other...
... just hope.
In the beginning, after our first day with real weight, we often echo the great Cheryl Crow song...
... God, I feel like hell tonight.
Why do it?
- Strong bones
- Good posture
- Improved ability to handle challenges
Why not?
- Takes time
- Potential to get hurt
Here's my current program,
takes about 15 minutes.
- 6 pullups
- 18 pushups
- 10 shoulder press
- 5 pullups
- 15 pushups
- 6 squats
- 4 pullups
- 12 pushups
- 20 toe raises, 10 heel raises
- 3 pullups
- 9 pushups
- 10 curls (vanity muscles)
- 2 pullups
- 6 pushups
In other words, mainly pullups and pushups with something extra to break up the sets.
The focus is on large muscle groups.
In Natural Born Heroes: Mastering the Lost Secrets of Strength and Endurance, there's a strong emphasis on tendon strength being key to true athlete prowess. We develop that moving heavy weight with large muscle groups...
... the stuff we need to be fast.
For the bar...
- Jump up to the bar, and let yourself down slowly.
- Use a pullup assist machine
- Giant rubberbands
For pushups...
- Figure out hand positions that are comfy on the shoulders
- It's cool to start on your knees
Squats...
- Do air squats and put that arse in the grarsse
- Go half way down
Start somewhere,
just start.
---
166
7.5ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses + other stuff
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
79
>
HOW TO OVERCOME INJURY
I'VE BEEN ASKED TWICE TODAY if I had any feelings of Why me? after my brain injury. And, how did I overcome that? Well, good questions because...
... we all gotta battle through the shiz.
During the darkest days, I only had one thought.
How can I fix this?
We've all been dealt multiple bad hands over the years, and if we think about it...
... we often come through them stronger, better.
It never seems like it at the time.
Our challenges, I believe, are our challenges, for a reason.
As rotten as they appear...
... they are personalized gifts.
If they weren't for our benefit and didn't totally suck,
they'd be easy to overcome,
requiring little effort,
personal growth,
or change.
With that in mind, I set about studying and researching how best to recover from this unplanned set back.
There's plenty of improvement still to be made...
... and that's exciting as hell!
---
166.7
8ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses + other stuff
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
79
>
GIMME SHELTER
THERE AIN'T NOTHING LIKE A TAILWIND to blow the group to pieces. The palms were bending, for sure...
... this one was gonna hurt.
It's counter intuitive.
But, it goes like this.
Alone, a tailwind feels nice.
A chance to tap lightly on the pedals and fly along.
In a group, it's whole different game.
The strong go to the front and drill it.
'problem is, there's no draft,
no place to hide,
no rest.
Which is exactly how it went down today.
Three of us were rotating.
Hard pulls.
It felt terrible,
and great.
Nobody else was pulling through.
I didn't blame 'em,
it was hard as heck.
I glanced back...
... gap was 30 feet.
Then 300 feet.
Then, a slight bend in the road,
an every so tiny gap opened, and...
... I was ejected.
Just couldn't close it.
No draft.
How was the ride back up the coast into the wind?
Well, alone it woulda been a bear.
In the group, much easier.
Sure the brief moment pulling through stung a bit, then...
... it was right back to the shelter.
So, there you have it.
Tailwind, get on the front and get a gap.
Headwind, take it easy, nothings getting away.
---
168.4
9ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
78
>
DO LESS, AND OBSESS
CAN'T GET THIS CONCEPT OUTTA MY MIND, not because I've never considered it, because it's so darn rhymey. I coudn't say it better...
... Do less, and obsess.
Maybe I just needed to hear the message?
The idea of having 1 (one) 'A' race a year has always turned me on...
- It's more fun to have one focus
- dive into the nittygritty
- get granular
- geek out
... that's the shift I love.
Yeah, I might end up with a bike that's not good for much but a particular course,
training that is so specialized as to be worthless for everything else.
But, that's the point.
To be so singular,
to be uniquely prepared.
Then, and only then, I might have a chance...
... and that's all the hope I need.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to treat...
... all other races as distractions at best.
Places to test...
- equipment
- strategy
- training
... nothing more.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to commit...
... to training blocks and weight lifting.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to see...
... the big picture.
To do less,
and obsess.
---
168.7
8ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
76
>
HE'S TRYING TO KILL ME
THE POOR WOMAN WAS RED IN THE FACE, if looks could kill her guide/date would be dead. They'd just cleared a very overgrown jungle and were now pushing their bikes up a rocky stretch...
... who could blame her?
Who could blame him?
Sometimes our sense of adventure...
... is total nonsense.
I could only laugh.
Don't kill him here, you need to get home first!
They had a ways to go.
We have about 5 weeks to prep for the SurfNSummit.
Yeah, it's far.
Lots of climbing.
But, still I'm surprised at how many people misjudge what it takes.
Some, think it's just impossible to complete...
... usually my most fit friends.
Others, show up with what appears to be no business attempting it...
... but, hope and the desire to do something epic.
It's one of those Henry Ford moments.
Whether you think can, or think you can't...
... you're right.
So, if you think you can ride 100+ miles with 15,000+ feet of climbing...
... click here to check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/free-registration-for-the-surf-n-summit-california-5-18-24
---
168.2
9ish hrs Sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
76er
>
AN OBSERVATION ON UNEVEN POWER BETWEEN LEGS
ONE OF THE SETTINGS ON MY POWER METER shows the power put out by each leg. It can def ovewhelm for an entire ride, because we can...
... freak out about data we don't like.
It's on one of my Wahoo screens.
I see it from time to time on a ride.
Consciously trying to even out the power was annoying the heck out of me.
One leg was always stronger, unless I reallyreallyreallyreally focused.
Then, I had an idea.
Something to try,
that I used to do.
This came to me when I noticed standing and climbing,
power was always 50/50.
Hmmmm.
What's the difference?
Then I noticed,
same thing when it got steep and I really had to put out some power.
Well, that was nice to see...
... somewhat calming.
Hmmmm...
... how to do that all the time?
Welp, this is just an observation.
It might not work for you.
Meter could be mismonitoring, but this makes all the difference in the world...
... when I consciously focus on pedaling with the heels down.
What?
Really?
Yes.
What I think is happening is I'm eliminating a dead spot along the top of my pedal stroke...
... gonna verify with my genius bike fitter, Ashley.
---
167.3
8ish hrs Sleep
No Strength Work
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
78
>
THE WHAT AND WHY OF A PROPER EZ SPIN
I'VE BEEN TRYING TO GET THE LEGS TO COME AROUND, which means I had to actually dedicate myself to do some easy spins. Because, like most of us it's just...
... darn hard to go easy.
Or, is it just me?
First off, what constitutes an easy spin?
Two things:
- Low effort
- High rpm's
How low?
Very bottom of Zone 2, or anything in Zone 1.
How high?
90-100+ rpm's.
Why?
Well, one of my early coaches called it a Rinse Ride for a reason.
If we are really doing it correctly,
our legs feel all clean and springy because...
... we rinsed out the crud.
Why else?
- It's good on the brain
- Takes the pressure off, simply relaxing
- Great time to catch up with friends and chat while spinning
How long?
45-90 min seems about right.
The things we think about when we're just spinnin' ez.
---
166.9
8ish hrs Sleep
Just PullUps and PushUps today
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
73
>
EVER HAD THE CRUD BEAT OUT OF YOU, FOR REAL?
GROWING UP, we fought a lot. We were too weak to do much physical damage, but there was plenty of pride and shame on the line. It's not much different now...
... when we race.
If we truly get the crud beat out us by...
- the course
- the competition
- our worse, ourselves
... there is only one question.
Did we really get it beat out of us?
Or, are we destined to get pummeled over and over again because...
... the crud is still there?
Is our diet a joke?
Do our handling skills still stink?
Does our bike squeak and wobble?
'Cause if that crud is still there, then...
... it's not beat out of us.
We've just learned to live with mediocrity...
... and that's just plain cruddy.
---
167.8
8ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
74
>
IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER ROAD PEDALS FOR OFFROAD?
WHEN I WAS PRE-RIDING LEADVILLE a while back, the phenom who would shatter the course record floated by me as I labored. He made it look so easy...
... was it the pedals?
99% of MTB racers,
dismount on that course.
There is no way they'd sport road shoes and pedals,
even though they are...
- Lighter
- More aero
- Offer better contact and efficiency
... because once fouled they're VERY difficult to get engaged.
Gravel,
is another deal.
Unless we are pushing the boundaries,
ripping single track,
slaloming sand...
... we're not going to dismount.
The only time would be if crashed,
or unclipped to rutter a turn.
In most gravel races,
that's not likely.
So, should we run the road set up offroad?
I have multiple friends who roll the dice in local XC races...
... and even the long, epic stuff.
It almost always works out great.
Worth the risk?
Up to you.
Worth testing?
100%.
---
167.6
7.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
74
>
HAVE YOU EVER TRIED TRAINING BIG BLOCKS?
A QUESTION CAME UP LAST NIGHT ON OUR ZOOM CALL. Have you ever trained big training blocks like Keegan Swenson just posted. Good question...
... does it work?
Maybe.
Here's what I can tell you from personal experience.
18 months ago, I was prepping for my insane time goal at Leadville.
I was really committed.
Holed up in Breckinridge all by myself,
for the month prior.
It's easy to be selfish with the time,
when you're by yourself.
The race is in August.
In July, I did..
- 20 hours
- 22 hours
- 25 hours
... a lot more than my normal 10-12 hours a week.
It was very race specific training.
Lots of Zone 2.
Recovery
was key.
I came out of that in awesome shape,
and had the best race
of
my
life.
Does it work for everybody?
I have no idea.
But, I'll definitely do it again when prepping for a once in a life quest.
----
168.9
7.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
73
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THINGS TO CHECK FIRST...
THERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT CAN MAKE OR BREAK a race, the chief being the bike. Bikes don't win races, but they sure can make things a lot harder...
... or a lot easier.
As I went through my checklist, I found a few issues:
- Rear brake pad smoked
- Sealant dried out
- Battery low
It's kinda nice to have brakes that work, especially with a ripping downhill like Saturday's.
The course should be in pretty good shape, but that doesn't mean a small wire or piece of glass couldn't be a day-ender without sealant.
And c'mon...
... ya can't ride these modern bikes without good batteries.
And, I'm not just talking about the derailleur batteries. Many of the shifters have their own small batteries.
I have made the mistake of not checking the shifter batteries.
Heck, I didn't even know about them until the start of the Filthy 50 a couple of years ago. I didn't warm up, just saddled up and headed to the start.
Typically MTB XC start... everybody pinned to get to the single track first...
... I got there last.
Shifter was dead, I was spun out and then spit out.
15 minutes later, with some help from the mechanic on site, I was back at it.
Which is exactly why I came up with the RaceDay Bike Checklist, and made it into a sticker.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-checklist-stickers
For about a year now we've been shipping the stickers out with each RaceDay Bag purchase. They're great for tool boxes and benches.
Here's a link to check 'em out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-checklist-stickers
----
168.7
8.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
71
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE HEROIC MOVE
THERE'S A LOT OF GREAT RACING GOING ON. Locally, regionally, internationally. Sometimes we witness the unfathomable attack from impossibly far out, other times...
... a second or third wind, for the win.
By inches.
We shouldn't be impressed.
I'm mean,
it's cool.
We all cheer.
But the truth is the victory was secured long ago.
When nobody was cheering.
It was dark,
lonely,
cold.
The alarm was more drill sergeant, than fan.
In those moments...
... the heroes make their moves.
If we're lucky,
we witness the results.
---
169.1
9ish hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
72
>
IT'S LIKE THE SUN GOING UP ON ME
40 DEGREES, 80% HUMIDITY ain't nothing. Combine that with a dawn start, the sun hidden behind the hills, and, well, when you're going 20+ mph in your underpants...
... it's bonechilly.
I left the knee warmers behind.
No vest.
No jacket.
Just arm warmers,
a base layer,
skull cap.
It's risky,
we might freeze,
this is how we do it...
... when we know sunny times are ahead.
So are they?
Whether we are enjoying the longer days,
recovering from an injury,
just getting back at it...
... we hope and plan for...
- better fitness
- decreased fatness
- all things to improve
... it's a process.
And, we know it.
Just like the sun coming up,
we imperceptibly rise to the occasion.
That's how today was for me.
Still got dropped,
but made it a little further.
I'll take it.
Here's a snapshot of where things stand.
There's nothing like a good fitness journey.
How's yours going?
---
168.7
8ish hrs sleep
10 Pullups 30 Pushups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
73 (per training peaks)
>
MY DUMBEST PREDICTION YET
PARIS-ROUBAIX IS SUNDAY. I can't wait. It's always so fun to watch, and such a battle of machine, mind, and bike handling. Lots of drama, and this year...
... is starts before the famed Arenberg Forest.
The forest is always crazy.
Mud.
Cobbles.
A massive battle for the front ensues for those who want the best chance of getting through with the lead group...
... unscathed.
This year, the organizers decide a chicane right before entering the forest would be a good idea.
Less dangerous.
I looked at the layout.
Here's my prediction.
Rather than racing for the forest entrance to avoid carnage...
... they will race to the chicane.
And...
- have plenty of lycra on the pavement.
- or in the barriers
- or both.
... I hope I'm wrong.
Then, we have to wonder, at least I do, what is the point of racing?
Call me crazy, but I think part of it is to show bike handling prowess.
We're still gonna see it with the chicane.
Just seems like a little chicanery...
... to appease, who?
---
169.1
8 hrs sleep
15 Pullups 50 Pushups 40 Shoulder Press... no legs today.
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
BLOOD. WORK.
DON'T BE LIKE ME. Because I never get sick, I never go to the doctor. Which meant I never had my blood work done. You're too smart for that...
... here's why.
By regularly getting the blood work done, we have a baseline for "our" normal.
I don't have that.
When I had the brain injury a few months ago,
things changed.
The brain is our command center, telling the body what to produce and control and do, etc.
A brain injury often causes issues with how the body is regulated.
Today, we reviewed my blood work which was drawn a few weeks ago.
Some markers are out of range - too high on some, too low on others.
Bad news is...
... I have no reference point of "my" normal.
Could be genetic, could be from the injury.
Good news is...
... we know where I'm at, and have some corrective measures to take.
Bonus, most indicators are positive for my body, and with my overall health.
Dr. Cory King, my functional health doctor from Encinitas, went over it all with me.
Nothing too scary...
... but definitely areas to not ignore.
Things like cholesterol levels, vitamin levels, etc. that can have negative effects if left untreated.
So, we'll chock this up as another blessing from my brain injury.
Regardless of your awesome health.
Find out where you are at,
things can probably be improved.
Consider this a gentle and loving nudge from me to you...
... get the blood work done.
---
169.4
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
CHEAT CODE
HERE'S A DIRTY LITTLE SECRET. Okay, maybe it's not all that dirty but it is secret and fact is it's...
... a cheat code for life.
There's a reason we get out and do our thing.
Sure, it's great to be in shape.
Have that come what may attitude.
Fact is, even though the fitness is great...
... there's something better.
- The problems we solve
- Ideas we come up with
- Freedom to think
We often, nearly always, return...
... renewed.
Ready
To
Kicka$$
Even when,
especially when...
... we've rung out our body's energy supply.
---
169.1
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
STRUGGLING WITH WEIGHT... TRY NOT
SINCE MY AWESOME START TO THE YEAR, knocking myself out and spending a 5 days in ICU, my metabolism has changed. This is not uncommon, given the standard protocols...
... and now I'm pissed.
I didn't ask for this, and that is not the problem.
I haven't asked for a solution.
I have forgotten my own wisdom.
Well, on the eve of my bday, yesterday, I was asked...
... What do you want?
Get my lycracovered buns back in fighting shape.
I went to bed with a question...
... How do I get back to my normal, leanish self?
I woke up with an answer.
A book recommendation appeared on my Kindle.
Feast., Fast. Fit. by Fred Duncan.
It wasn't new information for me.
Heck, I preach it.
It's worked in the past.
I believe it will work again.
The lesson?
It isn't get on the diet train...
... it's ask the right questions,
and expect answers.
- How can I get lean?
- How can I climb faster?
- How can I stay cool in the blistering heat?
- How can I complete a century without bonking?
- How can I reduce the drag created by my bike and body?
Try not.
Ask or ask not.
---
170.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THOU SHALT CARE FOR THY HANDS
TAKING CARE OF THE HANDS is importante. Road, is pretty straight forward. So is MTB. Gravel, well, it's got it's own challenges...
... what can we do?
I've seen plenty of ruined hands...
- brutal gripshift blisters
- palms filled with asphalt gravelly stuff
- a thumb's skin pealed from under the nail past the first knuckle
... all of it could have been spared with gloves.
Personally, I prefer very lightweight fullfinger gloves.
But, that ain't gonna help on the gravel bike.
No suspension.
What can we do?
I double wrap my bars with a good soft tape.
- helps with vibration
- displaces pressure points across a wider area
I was reminded of how great this is just last week.
It'd been a while since I'd ridden the roadie, been riding the gravel bike on and off road a ton.
As soon as I got going the bars felt weird.
Sharp.
Oh yeah, the single wrap bar.
It's lighter.
More aero.
But, I'd never go back to a single wrap on the gravel bike.
---
170.5
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
WHICH NUMBERS ARE WE CHASING?
THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE between the kinds of numbers some of us focus on putting up. Some chase big power numbers, while others chase small numbers...
... what's the corresponding motivation?
You know.
Are we more interested in the low numbers: 1st, 2nd, 3rd...
... or, increasing our own personal power numbers?
Do we need everybody to see us on the podium...
... or, are we thrilled when we privately snag a new PR?
We can go out to the race,
or we can design our own incredible adventure.
We can train to beat everybody,
or our training can help us live our best lives.
They're not necessarily mutually exclusive,
there are four seasons for a reason.
---
169
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
IS IT TIME TO STOP BINGING?
SATURDAYS ARE MY DAYS. All week long, I look forward to getting up early and rolling out with no particular plan but wasting time via hours in the saddle...
... I call it binge riding.
Not today.
It was raining
When that happens on the 6th day of the week,
my day,
I'm typically grumpy.
This time,
I was looking forward to it.
Why?
Honestly, I'd been binge riding too much.
Too many days in a row spent
slipping out after work
staying out too long...
... the time change being my enabler.
I was unconsciously due for a break.
Some call it overtrained...
... overbinged is more accurate,
for me.
---
168.2
7.5 hrs sleep
Lots of pull ups, pushups and squats.
10 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
68
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE OL' WHAT IF YOU KNEW...
THESE TWO PUNKS SHOWED UP TO MY HOUSE, and dragged their dear ol' dad out for his favorite thing. Riding MTBs with them...
... that wasn't the best part.
Sure, it was fun to keep up with 'em.
Mostly.
Then, completely overdoing it at Cheesecake factory.
The best part was dropping by the Audi store...
... and hotrodding around in a $70k RS3.
So.
Dang.
Fast!
It's good to get in the dream car, and throw it around some corners...
... to keep the dreams alive.
But, what if it wasn't a dream.
What if...
... you knew you could PR any segment, win any race?
What would it be?
If we don't know,
can't quickly answer the question..
... likely not going to happen.
But,
what
if
we
knew...
... then,
what would we do with today's training?
---
1680
7.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
JUST BECAUSE IT'S FREE MEANS...
SO MUCH INFORMATION, and so much of it free. Free is a weird price, because we know it's gonna cost time and there's probably...
... an ask down the road.
Don't be fooled.
Sometimes the really expensive stuff is great,
sometimes it's terrible.
Same for free.
Price is a signal.
Should we be swayed?
I recently got an offer to save 30% on a $6000 frame.
6K!!!...
... must be awesome.
Maybe.
But, how do we know?
Really?
The glossy magazine ad?
The pro riding it to a win?
It can be frustrating.
When it comes right down to it, most of us...
... are swayed by our friends' reviews.
Like these -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/reviews...
... which I'm extremely grateful for.
---
168.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
DOES YOUR DOG BITE?
THE GREAT INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU encounter with a dog is classic. The dog is off leash, he asks Does your dog bite? The answer is, No. He bends to pet the dog...
... only to have the dog viciously latch on to his hand!
I thought you said your dog does not bite?
That is not my dog.
I thought about that since Surfergirl has...
- demanded
- pleaded
- asked
... that I let her track me on my rides.
I feel like a dog on a leash.
The Jason Bourne in me wants none of that.
There's nothing to hide,
when I ride.
But, really?
She does have a point.
I often venture into the wild.
Signs with warnings of mountain lions and snakes about.
Trails are often treacherous to the bike,
and potentially me.
Humans few and far between.
If, if, if I should need a rescue,
which I never have...
... I'll just need two things.
A cell signal...
... and a friend who cares.
It's kinda romantic when ya think about it,
guess we're doing all right.
---
168.2
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
HOW MY LITTLE PRACTICE LOOP TOOK ME DOWN
I SET OFF TO POUND MY PRACTICE LOOP. The profile is jagged, lots of single track, and...
... I'm trying to crack 90 minutes.
Today's failure is why it's so important to practice racing.
Here's the dill.
This course is very hard to stay fueled on...
... almost impossible to drink, forget about eating.
Which meant I was tuckered out, with 4 miles to go. The last 30ish minutes are pretty dern steep.
With about 20 minute warm up,
winging it on 1/2 bottle and 100 calories was a weak effort.
Just not enough.
Strava called a Massive Relative Effort,
giving the workout a score of 192.
I'll try it again in a couple of weeks.
This time with 400 calories,
and 30 ounces of water,
in a Camelbak.
There just isn't time to suck on a bottle,
the bladder hose is easy to grab,
and once in my mouth,
handsfree.
Ya can't figure that out without simulating what ya might be racing...
... in real world conditions.
---
169.1 lbs (dropping some of these will speed things up, too)
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
SPEED AND BRAKES, NOT ALWAYS OBVIOUS
THERE'S A TECHNICAL, ROCKY SECTION on part of a local trail. First-timers walk it, new riders use a slow approach, locals...
... let it rip.
They know something.
Speed makes it much easier to glide over the the treachery.
It's counterintuitive.
Disc brakes are the same way.
They rub.
We pry 'em apart and reinsert the wheel.
Soon into the ride they are rubbing again.
Why?
The pads are worn out.
You'd think they would stop touch the disc or barely work when running thin.
That's the way rim brakes work when the pads are worn down.
Not discs.
Counterintuitive.
Which why we alwaysalwaysalways check our brake pads before a race...
... so we hit the tricky stuff with speed.
---
167.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
66
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
DO YOU D.H.T.?
WE MAY NOT BE PRO. Our equipment may be lacking, our preparation woeful, our focus far from singular...
... which makes it all the more impressive.
When we, you and me...
... Do Hard Things.
Just like the pros,
but on a whole other level.
They level up,
get a pay check.
Our objective has nothing to do with money, and...
... everything to do with commitment.
Here's the cool part.
People see it.
Our family, friends, work associates, neighbors, etc.
They get inspired.
Maybe not to ride 100 miles or run a marathon or do an Ironman.
Doesn't matter.
The ability to D.H.T. can be applied to anything...
- changing diapers in the middle of the night
- studying instead of clubbing
- making 100 cold calls/day
- working 80 hrs a week for a season
- pushing a car off to the side of the road
- leading volunteers to repair after a disaster strikes
... once we learn we have it within us.
---
169.1 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work today
10 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
66
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
WE NEED A METRIC FOR THIS
THE FIRST TIME I SAW SHIMANO'S INTEGRATED SHIFTING, dubbed SIS, I knew there was no chance in a sprint without it. Sure we'd perfected the lost of art of...
... sprinting, letting go of the handlebars with one hand to shift.
But, what was the point?
It was useless.
Shimano changed the game, all because...
... Gripshift had changed the game.
Gripshift morphed into SRAM.
Shimano gave us electric shifting.
SRAM did it better with wireless.
How is that my new Kindle got me thinking of this?
Simple.
Kindle changes the reading game.
Which got me thinking about another game changer, Training Peaks.
It's pretty cool.
All kinds of data.
But, one metric is missing and would...
... be so funny to have.
A measurement for how bad a ride sucks...
- Freezing rain
- Frying pan heat
- Mile long hike-a-bike
- Gail force headwinds
- Countless mechanicals
... indicating our badassness for getting it done,
not quitting.
For example, we rolled the dice this morning on a 38% chance of rain.
No big deal, right?
3 hours in, we face another hour of driving headwind and relentless rain...
... the suckometer was needling past halfway.
- Hands were edging towards inoperable.
- Too wet and involved to eat carbs
- Feet sloshing
Not terrible.
But, somewhere on the ride data it woulda been nice to see...
... the badassometer read out.
Just fer fun.
See where the day's suckiness ranked against other such rides over time.
Time to go back the Kindle...
... under the blankies.
Me still cold.
---
167.9 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
LEARNING TO RIP FROM MARCH MADNESS
BALL AND STICK SPORTS are typically concerned with, and built around, offense and defense. How do we...
... apply that thinking to our endurance addictitions?
Do we have offense?
Defense?
Yep.
Offense
- Riding, running swimming time
- Weight lifting
- Racing and competitive group rides
- Upgrading equipment - new, shiny stuff
- Hiring a coach
- Fine tuning the bike fit
- Developing our handling skills
Defense
- Recovery work
- Sleep
- Proper nutrition
- Accountability partner(s)
- Equipment maintenance
- Stretching
- Allies to work with when falling behind
And before you say I've misplaced one of those, we all know...
... the best defense is offense and visa versa.
That's not the point.
The point is to figure out...
... how to incorporate a great offense and defense in our limited time.
---
167.8 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
TWO OF LIFE'S MYSTERIES
THERE TWO MYSTERIES THAT SCIENCE can't explain. AI doesn't have the answer, either. But's they are facts just the same. For example...
... why do beginners get all the flats?
Riddle me that one LycraMan.
You know it's true.
You know if you invite a new, excitedtobethere, rider along, there's gonna be a flat.
Waywaywayway more often than the experienced riders will experience.
Makes no sense.
Just like why more bike shops don't have a comfy couch to wait for that...
.... just a few more minutes...
repair.
Maybe a coffee table showcasing
- A colorful catalog of their favorite products
- Samples of their go to sports drinks or things to chomp
- Gotta have tools to check out
I was thinking of another mystery as I swapped out my worn disc brake pads...
... why more of us don't learn the basics of maintenance.
---
168.7 lbs (the struggle is real)
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
63
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE PRIDE CYCLE QUEST
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE THAT YOU'RE PROUD OF? Could be anything, but let's stay on point with athletic endeavors because it's important...
... to harness this concept.
The Pride Cycle Quest.
It's also dangerous,
if we let it get the best of us.
For me, at least, it's all about the quest.
Can I do it?
And, it's a cycle...
- Pick the outrageous result to chase
- Train for it.
- Do it.
... and pick another quest.
I don't really care if anybody else thinks it's cool,
so few understand us anyway.
It's internal.
Am I proud of that result?
It's only dangerous if we are chasing likes and kudos and cheers...
... from the world.
It's not about that.
It's about the quest.
It's personal.
I'm happiest when I have at least one per year.
That's my cycle of pride.
---
167.9 lbs
7.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
CHASING GHOSTS
PATHS BECOME TRAILS, trails become roads, roads become highways. It's evolution, and underneath it all are the ghosts...
... who got it started.
We think we're blazing a trail,
when we are really just going along with the crowd.
I was thinking about the day my longgone granpappy came to watch me race a criterium.
It was all new to me.
We wizzed past him every lap.
But, the laps were long...
... and he could barely see at that stage.
Afterwards, he told me how it was years before, when he was young.
I thought it would be in a velodrome and I'd be able to see you entire race.
Clueless me had no idea velodrome racing was the only bicycle racing 100 years ago.
Prior to that, it was racing bicycles long distance, on dusty...
... gravel roads.
In other words, we gone from...
- gravel
- to velodrome
- to road
- to bmx
- to mtb
- to gravel
... so why is gravel "new"?
It's not.
We're all just chasing ghosts who've gone before.
---
168 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THIS AIN'T NO TIME FOR FOOLING AROUND
WHAT IS THE BASELINE? The minimum effort to do and consider the week a win? It's important to have the least acceptable effort in mind...
... and make it happen.
Riding in the rain will make you think things like that.
Like, why the heck am I doing this?
Which is exactly what I was thinking as the skies opened an hour away from home.
Because I made a plan.
A public commitment.
Accountability.
Yesterday, in the sunshine and 72 degrees I committed to do the following this week:
- 15 pull ups, 50 push ups, 10 squats daily
- Ride 14 hours this week
- Drop 3 lbs
Easy to do when the weather is good,
and the day lazy.
The public commit was to the RaceDay Rippers,
who also hold me accountable each week when we check in.
I'm two months out from my next quest, the SurfNSummit.
The plan is on my RaceDay Calendar.
Some say Show me your calendar and I'll know what important to you...
... and yes, Date Night better be on there each week.
We have a few of the Giant RaceDay Calendars left, and you can save 25% since a quarter of the year is nearly past by using promo code:
CAL25OFF
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2024-giant-raceday-calendar
Here is the code:
CAL25OFF
Nod to the great Talking Heads for the inspiration
This is ain't no party, this ain't no disco, this ain't no time for foolin' around
---
168.9 lbs
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
59
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
HOW TO STAY SLOW...
IT'S SUPER EASY TO STAY SLOW, and just as easy to stay fast. To stay slow, do what your slow friends do and...
... expect to get fast.
The problem with actually getting fast,
nobody gives you credit.
For the most part, they can't see or appreciate, and will never know...
... how hard we work.
And, we've got to be okay with that.
To commence,
recognition be damned.
To be fast, do what you fast friends do...
... and expect to get fast.
Do.
Expect.
168.4 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
58
>
WWDGD?! - 25 WEEKS TO GO
I FELT GOOD ENOUGH THIS WEEK TO DREAM of getting my fitness back and setting unrealistic goals. Is there anything better than that? Getting to a place to...
... dare to go for it.
After pushing hard for nearly 3 hours, we had a choice.
Take it easy or do the hurtful climb?
500' in a mile doesn't sound like much...
... unless it's the last climb of a fast day.
We were gonna skip it, and then Love Watts yelled...
... WWDGD!
Huh?
What Would David Goggins Do?!
There was no choice at that point, because all of us have streeeeeeeeetch goals this summer.
It was fine.
Slower than I'd like...
... but, compared to last week waywayway better.
And so the journey begins.
The countdown to Gravel Nationals.
Here's where I'm at.
You can see my fitness score at the very bottom.
Down from over 50%, 18 months ago.
Weight, 168ish.
Up 10 lbs, 18 months ago.
Vision is still messed up.
Way off from what I considered one of my few advantages racing off road.
Can I be ready September 8th, 2024?
It's gonna be fun,
and frustrating.
WWDGD?
Go for it.
Every
single
freakin'
opportunity.
168.2 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
60
>
WHEN THE RACE PLAN GOES TO HECK IN A HANDLEBAR
IT WAS A ROUGH START, things weren't going smoothly at all. It was causing a lot of stress and internal turmoil. Energy I'd hoped to reserve for...
... more important sections of the event.
Ayyyy, what to do?
What I always do...
... but, forget to do.
Think of of the things going right...
- I felt good
- I'd started on time
- My prep was perfect
... other words be grateful for the good.
My energy shifted.
I calmed down.
Focused on getting down to business.
Wound up having a spectacular day...
... at the office.
Tomorrow's race should go a lot better, and if it doesn't...
... I know what to do.
168.2 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
600 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
YOU INSURED FOR THAT?
WELL, THE BILLS ARE COMING and I'm thinking about you and me. For years I've looked at health insurance as lame. Struggled mentally, sometimes economically...
... to pay that everlarger bill.
Why?
I never get sick.
Rarely, and I mean rarely, do I see a doctor.
I'm already doing all they would recommend to get better...
- eat good
- skip sugar
- get plenty of rest
- and workout regularly
... why would I spend the $ on insurance?
It feels like I'm being duped.
Well, there are these events called...
... accidents.
They happen,
and are almost completely unplanned.
So, yeah, my bills are coming in and I'm happy as being at the to of the podium at my A race...
... 'cause it looks like almost all of it covered.
Sucks to be out 1000s...
... but, way better than being out 100s of thousands.
Just putting this out there 'cause I love you...
... get covered, if ya ain't.
====
Side Note: has anybody tried insurance for bike like BikeInsure? Asking for myself, just found out about 'em
167.2 lbs
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
DO YOU LET POWER OR HR DETERMINE YOUR HARD VS EASY DAYS?
I HADN'T WORN MY HR MONITOR FOR DAYS. It wasn't working consistently, so I left it parked in the drawer. Until today, I gave it a shot and it actually worked...
... it got me thinking about the levels of easy.
There's so easy...
- I can barely feel the pedals
- I can sing a song
- I can easily talk
- I am not sure
... and maybe a few more levels.
My goal today was to ride as close to the top of my Zone 2 as possible, without going over...
... the I'm not sure range.
I wasn't sure, because my heart rate was bouncing at the top of the range. Meanwhile...
... my power was definitely over into a higher range quite often.
This is how I trained for decades, when I just had a HR monitor.
What's more important then...
... HR in Zone 2 or Power in Zone 2?
I'm gonna say, for me at least, HR is more important. It is more reflective of how all systems are working given the effort and absorbs the little efforts when the terrain or other elements require a few more watts.
Here's a real world application.
When I'm racing something epic, like Leadville, I'm going off heart rate for my pacing, and using the power meter to keep things in check when I have to dig a little deeper to close a gap or clean a technical uphill section.
The reality is, for peak performance on the long efforts...
... it's good to have both.
If it's a short race, under an hour, well, you know...
... put the dadgum gadget in the back pocket and race on feel.
Same for a long day of adventuring, who cares about the data when we're out there.
Enjoy the ride.
We can analyze later.
---
168. lbs
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
SHOULD WE DO A HUNDRED RACES IN A YEAR?
YA WANNA GET GOOD, be a boss, strike fear in your frenemies, be the maker of things that happen...
... instead of wondering what happened?
Race.
A lot more.
100 times/year.
Think I'm crazy?
Think it's immmm po siiiiii ble?
Then don't do it.
Don't even try.
Keep wonderin',
misreading the moves.
Or, commit.
Do:
- 2 zwifties
- 2 local races
- 2 group rides
- 2 of your own personal courses for PR
We all have 52 chances a year,
to race twice a week.
No excuses.
Nothing but upside.
Heck, even a brain-damaged guy like me can do it.
This week...
- hammering my xc race loop Tuesday
- group ride on weekend
... slaying myself today, getting crushed by the fellas Saturday.
Gotta start somewhere.
Gonna do what hurts and what I'm comfortable with.
Twice a week.
Oh... I know you're askin'...
... Why 100 times a year?
Because, every race is different.
We'll see a lot of different situations.
We're trying to see 'em all, or have a reallyreallyreally good feel for what is going to happen.
Simple as that.
Experience counts.
Get some.
It's free.
---
168.6 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
55
Are you ready to Rip On Raceday?
>
NOT GONNA LIE
WHEN I FINALLY CAME TO, I had one thing on my mind. Not after first being knocked out, not after the morphine and other meds wore off, days after being home...
... I wanted to say one thing.
Not gonna lie.
I was hurting.
Stunned.
How could my crazy good health take such a drastic turn in seconds...
... this wasn't what I had planned for 2024.
8 weeks later, I'm improving.
I'd leave it there, but...
... not gonna lie.
I'm nowhere near where I was just prior, nor 12 months ago, nor 2 years ago.
I'm off.
I can work 4-5 hours,
then my brain needs a break.
I can ride my bike,
but I have no power,
off-road vision is shift.
I can talk to friends,
until I can't.
Something even more weird happened though.
Something few will admit or acknowledge or maybe even notice...
... when I took that blow to the noggin' it felt like my spirit left my body.
There's a disconnectedness.
I know things aren't quite right.
Will they return or is life just going to be different?
Not gonna lie...
... this is new territory.
Now, I'm being as honest and transparent as possible in all I do.
My friend battling cancer taught me that,
the freedom of being honest.
Yes, I hid it from Surfergirl that on one of my first bike rides alone I was going down the road and thought I saw 4 ducks crossing the road in front of me...
... it was just two,
that's troubling.
Not gonna lie.
I kept riding.
Lying to myself it was all good,
hiding the truth if asked.
What is easier, being honest with ourselves and those around us or pulling the lycra over our eyes and theirs?
To remind myself of my new commitment...
... I made a special kit, see above.
That's the kind of thing I was looking forward to in 2024.
New designs,
new patterns,
new fabrics.
The good newsy stuff.
If you're into the rawness of honesty, maybe you'll like this too.
It's patterned after one of my all-time favorite Porsche's.
Check the full kit here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ngl-collection
Use this promo code on this kit to save 30%: NGL30
Code expires on 3.15.24.
---
168.6 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
54
>
HE SWITCHED TEAM, AND IT...
TODAY AN AMERICAN WON PARIS-NICE, an 8-Day stage race in France. A youngun, 25 years old. He'd never done it before, and wasn't picked as a favorite...
... except he picked himself.
A long time ago.
When riding for a less professional, less scientific team he was spending his own cash on equipment and training to up his game.
Something the top teams covered and pursued relentlessly.
He jumped at the chance to upgrade to the current dominant force in European road racing this season.
Would it matter?
I'd say it is clear.
What's interesting is how many of are trapped like a monkey...
... failing to let go, when we know we should.
Not only did he upgrade his team and training, but placed a huge bet on himself in a daring and startling breakaway with fellow US racer Brandon McNulty.
When you are a pro...
... winning actually is everything.
Way to go Mateo Jorgenson.
---
168.4 lbs
9 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
53
>
HOW TO GET FASTER FOR DUMMIES
APPARENTLY, LOVE WATTS FORGOT our commitment to go easy on the way up the coast. Which meant we had time to do the biggest climb I've done this year...
... 2 hours and 2000' of climbing for our "warm up".
At the usual time, riders flocked in and we were off.
It felt good to do my first group ride of the year...
- to see the guys
- get whooshed along
- and see some higher power numbers
... until the first overpass.
Where I was off the back.
Caught on at a light.
Off again.
On again.
My breathing and wheezing needed a muffler.
On the next power climb, normally 2ish minutes...
... I needed an extra minute or three.
They were gone.
Yeah, they are nowhere near as fast as I am...
... they're a heckuvalot faster.
Am I good with that?
Yeah, they've always been faster than lit'l ol' me.
Now I just need patience to close the gap to where...
... they are less faster.
So, here's the plan that I've used many a year...
... pick a spot beyond where I got popped today.
Make it just a little further each week.
Corner by corner,
Hill by hill.
Progress > Perfection
---
167.6 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
54
>
SPEAKING OF BIG CATS
WE SET UP THIS TERRIBLE PRACTICE COURSE. Really hard... 3.77 miles long with 780' feet of elevation gain per lap, and all the downhill is single track. It’s perfect...
... for me to get gapped.
As the laps wore on, the other's lights got further and further ahead.
There was no doubt. I was not up to the pace.
Slower on the climbs.
Slower on the drops.
Slower...
... than some really fast cats.
Speaking of cats.
Lots of sitings lately.
The big ones, 130 poundsish.
You know the kind that run 40 mph.
Jump 20 ft.
Attack from behind.
Well I’m thinking about these stealthy killing machines...
... and that saying about being faster than your friend being more important than being faster than the really big, fast cat, that wants to snap my neck and claw my guts out...
... which gets me going.
if you’re really into getting going at night, this light set up is really sweet. A huge beam on my bars and a nice spotlight on my helmet.
Perfect for charging hard when the friends are gone and imagination is riding wild.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-o-d-s-night-set-up
Use promo code: BIGCAT
To save over $50.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/t-o-d-s-night-set-up
---
164
54 PullUps 108 PushUps 108 Squat to Press
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4768502383
NASTY HABIT BATTLE
I HAVE A NASTY HABIT BATTLE GOING... not the Flying Nun kind. This is the kind of habit battle that could kill a rider if he wasn't careful. That's how habits are, they get burned in...
... and can leave us burned out.
I'm not burned out yet. But, as they say...
.. the struggle is real.
The first habit is the wind down. Each evening, around 9 or so, I start shutting 'er down.
You know... mindless TV, stretching, and some serious HyperVolting.
This process lasts about an hour. It's enjoyable and signals to my helmet holder Time to sleep big boy.
That's a pretty good habit to have, resulting in nearly 8 hours of sleep most nights.
The other habit is every Tuesday morning...
... up at 5am.
Meet the boys and girls at the corner for the weekly leg ripping affair.
Also a good habit, keeping us all light and lean cycling fiends.
And there is the nasty battle....
Like today.
The wind down started at 930 last night, ended at 1020.
The 5am habit sometimes is so locked in I rise sans alarm at 450.
Result, 6 1/2 hours of sleep.
Heap on a true beatdown of ride like today...
... and The Old Diesel morphs into The Worthless Very Old Diesel.
But Diesel, start the wind down earlier... you'll be fine.
I hear you.
But these two habits are deep.
Like ruts...
... you know, Ruts!
... graves with the ends kicked out.
Hopefully, this battle won't kill me...
... and Friedrich I'm derned sure it ain't makin' me stronger!
The thing that is saving me, I believe, is that HyperVolt.
It's the weirdest recovery tool I've ever used.
Most recovery is awful.
Ice bath : Misearable
Epsom Salt Bath : Awkward and messy
Essential Oils : Hard to tell
Massage : Costly and time consuming
You probably have a few secret home remedies you swear by, but I don't. I didn't. Until I got my hands on one of these.
If I could distill it down to one sentence, and I can, I'd say...
... A few minutes on the painful muscles and the pain goes away.
If I could shrink that down to one word, and I will, I'd say ...
... Easy.
By easy I mean it's super easy to use. Super convenient.
And, you'll be super happy if you use this super promo code which will save you $$$$ and get you free shipping.
The code is WINTHEBATTLE and it will save you 35 smackers.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/hypervolt-w-bluetooth
---
163.6
24 PullUps 48 PushUps
6.3 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4761011137
SEEING IS BELIEVING, HEARING IS KNOWING
SEEING OUR PROGRESS BUILDS BELIEVE IN OUR PROCESS. A perfect example is all the pushups and pullups I've been doing for about a month to get stronger for MTB season and life in general. No joke, I look slightly less like a T-Rex. But, the best part...
... they are getting easier, a lot easier.
Plus, I felt a lot stronger on Saturday's race course: punchy climbs and technical drops.
That's the seeing part.
The hearing part is different.
On a smooth section of road with few cars buzzing me, I pedaled my MTB this morning. The treads are wide, the pressure low. I could hear the power being put down on the road.
The sound was smooth.
Not vrmmmm, vrmmmm, vrmmmm...
but, vrrrrrrrrrrrmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
It reminded me of a chat with Gibby Hatton about smooth pedal strokes. He said BMXrs put down the smoothest power because no clips. MTBrs second smoothest because no traction. Roadies the worst because no feedback.
If you have a trainer, you can easily hear your pedal stroke...
... and know if it's smooth or not.
Smooth is faster, more efficient.
Better.
I like to see stuff, whether it's results or visualizing the future.
But, the question I have for you is can you see Eddy Merckx in this calendar?
Can you see his eyes?
Determination?
It looks outstanding in real life. 27" wide X 50" tall.
A perfect place to plan out the year's adventures.
$30.
Delivered.
---
164.5 (superbowl got me good)
35 PullUps 70 PushUps
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4755920548
TOP 3 REASONS NOT TO BUY ENVE WHEELS
BRYSON AND I WERE TALKING ABOUT WHEEL CHOICE FOR LEADVILLE A FEW YEARS AGO. Shocking, I know. Because what self-respecting cyclist would ever talk about wheel choice? Uh...
... everysingleone.
Wheels matter,.
(We know Diesel, get on with the story.)
Anyway, there we were talking about wheels choice... mind you, he's won Leadville twice, is a national champ in MTB Marathon, etc...
I looking at getting some new wheels for PbVille. What are you running?
ENVEs, even though ENVEs are a little heavier.
Why run 'em?
Because I trust them.
Which reminds me of my own intro to ENVEs. I was running brand X, and they kept warping and breaking. Finally my very awesome local bike shop got the money back from brand X and hooked me up with my first set of ENVEs.
Road wheels, 3.4s.
Rode 'em 3 years, never trued 'em. Ever.
#3 Reason not to purchase ENVEs is the price. Which is why I was on Brand X to begin with. ENVEs will cost you an arm and a leg, but in the end I can honestly say the are veryvery cost effective.
You'd think, of course, if you're gonna pay that much then you oughta be able to get them quickly.
Nope.
#2 Reason not to purchase ENVEs is you have to wait. It's probably a bad analogy, but you know how you can get a BigMac quicker than Sagan can snag a sprint? Well, ordering ENVEs is more like waiting for a juicy steak at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.
Totally worth it.
I realize, I kinda left the Bryson story hanging... didn't connect the dots.
Here you go.
#1 Reason not to purchase ENVEs is there will be no excuse for not getting it done. By it I mean, your PR/Win/KOM thingy you're chasing. A lot of people like to have excuses of why things didn't work out. So, if you're one of those types you don't get ENVEs.
They are reliable.
Strong.
Fast.
If you can handle not being able to blame your wheels for poor performance...
If you're okay waiting many weeks for perfection...
If you've got a few extra bucks...
Let's chat.
We are an ENVE dealer, and I'd love to hook you up with just the right set for your bike...
... just reply to this email.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/enve-wheels
---
162.7
HyperVolt/Stretch
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4751970787
WHY I LOVE TO RACE MOUNTAIN BIKES
I LOVE ALL KINDS OF RACING. Bikes for sure, and cars and motos and skateboards and paddleboards and running and skipping and... But, when it comes to bicycle racing there's something about mountain bike racing...
... because of something it lacks.
It's unlike road racing, and though I've only dipped my cleat in gravel racing I'd say it leans more toward road than MTB.
The reason I like MTB so much is at the end of the race.
Not the finish line.
I mean, generally, the races are so damned hard the finish line is a very welcome site.
But the thing I really like is seeing the placings...
... and the times.
You see, in a road race a breakaway can get on up the road and put big chunks of time into the group. So when you look at the placings things are distorted. Unlike MTB, where the placings so obviously point out the truth.
The reason for that, of course, is there is very little to no drafting on the MTB. It's much more mano a mano. You either have the goods or you don't.
Which brings me back to the placings, and what I like.
I like to look at those final times and see the guys who trounced me, and see the time gaps... because I'll go away, like today, and think to myself...
... sure as helk I can close those 2 minutes and get my arse up a couple of placings.
Now you might be thinking Wait a minute Diesel, that could be done in a road time trial as well.. But, you'd be mostly wrong.
You see, in a road time trial... well, yes, you can improve... but not like you can MTB racing.
There are many more places to improve in MTB racing, mostly in this order:
- The start, from a good spot on the grid to holding max effort well into the first singletrack.
- Handling skills can be dramatically improved simply riding the MTB a lot more, over a lot more challenging terrain.
- Because the MTB requires so much more upper body strength, regular pull ups and push ups and core work can make those final laps much faster.
- Bike set up, sure road has position and aeroness and tire pressure... but, MTB has those plus suspension and dropper posts
I could go on... but, the point is... making 5%, even 10%, gains, is a real possibility on MTB which is why those placings and seeing the fellas just a few minutes a head is a helluva motivator...
... and yes, after today's beat down The Old Diesel is plenty motivated.
I bet I'm not alone.
A couple of more things about today:
- Victor is putting on a dandy race series this winter: excellent course, live timing, good sound system. Really pro.
- I realized we are actually a well-known brand now: multiple people came up and thanked me for our RaceDay Bags™ and Changing Ponchos and bygolly that makes me happy.
- I was determined to get at least 3 hours in today, so I rode near home this morning, got in a giant warm up for the race, raced hard, then went out with Coach Brian and his little boy for our cool down. Honestly, I can't tell if the extra morning ride or super long warm up helped or hindered. I felt pretty darn good.
- I saw a bunch of my friends, which always makes it fun.
My legs felt great due to the PR Lotion, and my special purpose did too thanks to DZ Nuts.
Ya really don't want to chances with either of those areas when racing hard, and facing a long drive home afterwards.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
Cool thing is these ship free... and if you use this promo code you'll save a bucks too.
The code is LOVEMTB
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
---
163.6
HyperVolt
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4747270996
LITTLE BOY BLUE AND THE MAN IN THE MOON
MY FRIEND ZACH MISSED OUR RIDE LAST NIGHT, and I was so glad! Not because he's a beast. Not because he's a bad bike handler. Not because he always snags a waffle when he's here...
... none of those reasons.
I was thrilled because he bailed out to spend time with his young daughter,
take her on a bike ride.
There's nothing better.
I was able to do the same myself this morning with my old son,
take him on one of my favorite gravel rides,
to one of my favorite stops,
first time.
We did a ton of riding when he was little. First on our tandem. Then shuttle runs and resort runs. But, he never really caught the vision of climbing...
... under manpower
... suffering
... and I get it, it's not for everybody...
... but then again, he did say...
I can't wait for Beck to be big enough to go on a bike ride.
I still have the tandem.
Don't sell it.
Not a chance.
But, I am selling this beauty... the one that got me down this gravel road, the gateway drug to endless choices.
Even Shane loves gravel, and that's something. Heck, we road for 2 hours this morning... and on the way back he said, lets go further next time, and have the ladies meet us at the store.
So, if you're into adventure and possible carving out some time with family and friends...
Details are below... no unreasonable offer will be refused.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/sequoia-merz-2017
---
164.4 lbs - oops
20 PullUps 40 PushUps
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4740272216
PEOPLE SMILE AND TELL ME I'M THE LUCKY ONE
WE'VE JUST BEGUN. Opened a shop off the side of our online empire to scratch an itch. Personally, I swore in no uncertain term, I'll never own another retail operation again... but, you know, sometimes things line up and ya gotta go for it...
... like when Chris, longtime customer who moved to town just as the last local "pro" shop closed, had no place to hang his helmet. He's a15+ year professional bicycle mechanic known as The Wrench...
... we pitched our idea to BMC Switzerland, you know Tour De France winning road bikes and recent winner of the MTB XC World Championships. Apparently The Old Diesel has quite a following so they joined our mission...
,,,. people think we are killing it.
We aren't.
We aren't trying to.
What we are doing is delivering the kind of experience we want to a very specific client who demands high performance and personal service.
How personal?
Schedule an appointment and get your service done while you wait personal.
Along with BMC, we carry only product we use and love: ENVE wheels, KASK helmets, Fizik shoes, etc.
There aren't a lot of people like us... who demand outstanding racing bicycles and accessories, individualized bike fitting, service-while-you-wait.
We like that.
We enjoy working with likeminded athletes.
It's better that way.
If you're ever in town, stop in.
Heck, schedule an appointment with Chris.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/bikeshop-wrench-calendar
Just be prepared to be greeted by a friendly dude who will listen to what you need and get it done professionally.
Disclaimer: because we are small and nitchy sometimes we have to order parts, which can delay the process...
... but, you know... ya can't hurry love.
---
163.6 lbs
Light Weights Workout
7.3 hours sleep
No ride today.
I NEVER SAW THAT BEFORE
TONIGHT, I SAW THREE THINGS I'D NEVER SEEN BEFORE. The first happened early on the ride, between 2 riders who barely know each other. I know one of them real well, so when he said he forgot something I wasn't surprised...
... I was surprised by the quick solution, a true trailside rescue.
I forgot to charge my battery.
Your lights?
No, derailleur. It's red.
C'mon Rookie!
No worries man... take mine. I have two. I won't use the front one.
And, just like that, problem solved.
There's one more thing about this first surprise that was not surprising. Our crew is really giving and caring. That instant giving up of the battery is just the way we are... when we aren't kicking the crap out of each other.
Okay, the next two surprises I have no photographic proof so you'll have to take my word for it.
I came whipping around a turn and a giant, and I mean GIANT, owl was right there. It's head spun around, the flat face, wise eyes, vicious beak... it stayed put. Not even a ruffled feather. More of a...
... Hey man, nice night.
Ten minutes later, higher on the trail we saw a million little, white field mice. They reminded me of snow blowing across the road, their white fur gleaming in our lights.
Only now is it dawning on me what Mr. Owl was doing, still as can be trail side.
I would have been freezing if I was just standing there like him. In the dark. Not moving.
At a minimum I'd need a sexy beanie to keep my head warm.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
Probably this green one, to blend in... but, maybe the black one for the night or the blue one to match my eyes or perhaps the gray one for dawn?
Final surprise... you can get any of those colors delivered to you for $20... yep $20 includes said beanie in preferred color and shipping.
Get one: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
163.1 lbs
50 PullUps 100 PushUps
8.2 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4730991490
FRESH MEAT
ONE OF THE MORE ENTERTAINING PARTS OF OUR LOCAL GROUP RIDE IS BRINGING THE NEWGUY. Today's newguy certainly looked the part: svelte, stylish, confident. You know the type...
... no fat, gold shoes, effortlessly navigating our galloping herd.
I've seen a lot of newguys start out like that.
Just fine.
But, the cumulative effect of multiple surges, not knowing the course, not knowing the players from the fakers can wear newguy down. Just like that, spunky turns to spongy. Bouncing off the front to soggy off the back.
Which is why it's so entertaining for yours Diesely.
Kindly, I let him know what was coming.
Turn ahead,
watch that dip,
5 minutes of pain.
Just being friendly, in a voyeur sorta way.
Now you might be thinking that I was thinking, can't wait 'till he blows. Noooo, not little ol' me. Why would I hope for newguy to blow and roll in with debris like me? That wouldn't be nice, or gentlemanly, or even mature.
Nope, it was more of a self-bet.
I'll bet he gets ejected on the wall.
That's a safe bet. Real safe. Everybody gets ejected on the wall.
But not this newguy. Hellno!
He popped around me and everyone between me and the front like a humming bird pollinating beautiful blooms on a bright spring morning.
When The Old Diesel finally finished, I did what every spongy, soggy piece of debris should do...
... Great to meet ya Fern! Keep coming, we need more guys like you.
Because, you know
It's just a social ride.
To reinforce the friendliness of our little ol' ride I thought I'd highlight the socialness on the sleeves for this year's kit.
Check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
Now, if you're unfamiliar with our gear:
- We make it to order
- In the USA
- With the best Italian fabrics
- The best Japanese zippers
- And a pad so delicious you'll never ride another bib again.
Yes, it's sexy as hell.
Yes, you can wear it even if you never do the ride... in fact, we highly encourage you to start your own TMWC. A few people have done just that.
This promo code will expire in 2 weeks: TMWCNEWGUY
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/the-tmwc
---
163.4 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
6 hours sleep <- that cost me at least 100 watts
https://www.strava.com/activities/4722948021
WE CAN DO HARD THINGS
AROUND 6PM TODAY, CUSTOMER BRIAN AND I TALKED A BIT ABOUT THE HISTORY OF A LOCAL RACE CALLED VISION QUEST. For most people, it's a once in a lifetime experience. It took me two times to figure that out...
... it's hardashell.
A feather under 50 miles.
11000' of vert.
2 miles of hiking.
Average finishing time is 9ish hours.
In '99, the heat topped out at 90 degrees just as I was hitting the hikeabike...
... brutal.
There aren't really any races like that any more.
VisionQuest has been on hiatus due to forest fires, tree huggers, and now the pandemic thingy.
Supposedly it will be back later this year.
But will it?
I feel like the troubled souls who were doing these insane events 20 years ago are a dying breed.
My first VisionQuest, we loaded our bikes into a U-Haul and our bodies into a rusted out school bus just to get to the start.
Then we stood in the dark, freezing, smelling tribal smoke as the promoter blessed our efforts.
Brian reminded me about the aid station he manned over the years. He'd be up there grilling hamburgers. And people'd eat 'em. They were 7 hours in and famished. Just trying to finish the dern thing.
Seems more like today's racers think an adventure is a $500 event, with cushy accommodations and cushy bikes and cushy plane flights.
Back then, I gotta be honest, we were a helluva a lot tougher.
No suspension,
heavy bikes,
multiple flats,
broken chains,
drinking just water,
eating PB&J.
See that paper number plate?
I'm real proud of that.
One, that I still have it.
Two, that it's #4... the promoter would use your finish from the previous year. I wasn't 4th, but only 3 guys from the previous year were faster than me... therefore I got number four.
Sometimes ya gotta remind yourself where you've come from... those days when you'd just rather quit, climb under a rock... when it seems like nothing has changed, no progress has been made...
... those are the days I look back on my VisionQuest(s), buckle up, and say...
... I can do hard things.
One thing I know I would have loved back then is our superlight gloves and socks. Back then I was rocking the half finger road gloves, which are perfect for ripping the skin right off your fingers in a crash.
I would have loved our race socks with EZBreathe Yarns and FastMax Compression.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
If you haven't tried them... knows the time.
Use promo code: HARDASHELL
and, when you buy gloves and socks the socks will be free when you check out.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
the code is good for 48 hours.
---
164.2 lbs
40 PullUps 80 PushUps
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4717699151
I'M NOT DONE YET
CHRIS FROOME SAYS AGE IS A STATE OF MIND. I say whatev'. He also says, he plans to snag his 5th TdF while simultaneously becoming the oldest to ever do it. I say again, whatev'. Meanwhile, Tom Brady switched NFL teams because his previous team said he was too old and he is now taking his new team to the Superbowl...
... cute stories, hopes of old guys.
Not at all relevant to what matters.
What matters, what has always mattered, is motivation.
Winning is always nice, and it's a motivator for sure. But, TBH I think it's weak compared to things like revenge, anger and proving a point. Yes, these are baser motives...
... but, I guarantee you they're a huge part of these super human performances.
These guys are pros. Seasoned. They won't be seeing red, hurrying, making mistakes.
They're killers.
Patient.
When they strike, it's a killshot.
Do they have a chance against young phenoms? Not really. They know that. Which is what makes them so deadly.
But, they are just like us... right?
We can harness that same energy.
And, just like us they have to eat and sleep and ride and drink.
But, will they have these stylish bottles?
I mean, they are good looking bottles. And they're tall, because sometimes when you are hacked off, looking to prove a point you have to ride long.
$20.
That's it.
Shipping is included.
---
163.6 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4714419471
A BET OF MY OWN MEDICINE... CAN I HAVE SOME SUGAR?
TODAY TURNED OUT TO BE A HELLUVA RIDE. Got to prove OneBikeToRuleThemAll concept, got mugged on the Thug Ride, got to sing HBD to Justin, and just for good measure...
... a onceinalifetime experience getting shelled riding renegade through Camp Pendleton Marine Base.
One of these things will likely never be done again.
First things first... I've been riding my sexy BMC URS - aka Showtime - with full gravel set up for months now. Partly 'cause it's dern fun, partly 'cause the Srambassador parts for my sexy BMC Teammachine are floating somewher off the coast...
... so last night I mounted up my sexy ENVE 5.6s and through 'em on Showtime.
Things went beautifully because both sets of wheels have ENVE hubs. Slotted them in, didn't even need to touch the brakes.
Right off the bike felt faster... duh Diesel, you put deep dish roadie wheels with Pirelli tubeless tires. I felt pretty confident I'd be able to hang on the Thug Ride.
The Thug Ride is made up of the killers who used to do Swami's, the badassiest ride in these parts. Every Friday they post the route for Saturday morning. It makes for an exciting ride. I hung on pretty dern good. Considering I haven't done any road intensity for months, I can say in all honesty...
... if you want OneBikeToRuleAll, a killer gravel bike and 2 sets of wheels is a legit option.
I would only say if you're truly racing road, you're gonna need a proper road racer. I never really spun out. The bike is a few pounds heavier due to it's design for comfort and taking a beating, plus the 20mm of rear travel/bumper. But, I don't think that mattered much. The only thing that mattered to speak of was being in the perfect gear on the extremely fast climbs. But, like I said...
... unless you're truly roadie racing, this is a gloriously easy way to go.
We finished the Thug,
I was feeling smug.
So much so that rather than drive home with MattnCharlienJimmy I opted to ride home - another 50ish miles with MikenEricnChris.
You would have, too.
55 degrees.
Beautiful people out.
Along the coast.
No, I haven't ridden a hundy in months... maybe a year?
No, I didn't have enough food to make it.
Yes, I clearly was going to get a taste of my own medicine... and find myself begging for sugar!
When you ride through Camp Pendleton you have to have a special ID. Eric had a current one. Mike's had expired yesterday. Mine expired last year. Chris didn't even have one. We got lucky at the guard station... the alternative is riding the freeway where the minimum speed limit in the right hand lane is 200 mph.
It's a beautiful ride through the base. One lane roads, open country to the right, gorgeous ocean to the left. All was going according to plan, until we hit the North gate...
... we road around the barriers, ignored the road closed sign, and introduced ourselves to machine gun totting 20something who were not impressed with our fancy underwear and inability to follow directions.
Turn around?
Huh?
Didn't you see the barriers?
Uh....
Back to where you came from.
We just wanna get home.
Too bad.
We'll take Basilone.
You do that.
Now all 6 of us, those two and us four, knew the Basilone route is verbotten for der bikes. They even have nice signs saying Getthehellouttahere.
But, we were tired and hungry and too dern close to home to care.
Which meant...
... we rode some of the most beautiful roads you'll never see. Mostly to ourselves. Especially me... I kept getting dropped on every rolling hill, of which there are a plenty.
It was so worth it.
One of the best rides of my life, even though I was hating on my friends for continually dropping me. As Surfergirl so nicely pointed out... a bit of your medicine, eh. Dawgawnher!
We got back to town, I road straight to Surfin Donuts thinking of a huge apple fritter.
Closed.
Across the street was a gas station. I came out with candy bars and bananas for all.
End of story.
I read a great quote today,
If it scares you, you should definitely do it.
Right now LoToJa's 204 miles from Logan UT to Jackson Hole WI is definitely scaring me.
What's scaring you on your calendar?
Our calendar is HUGE! 27.5" wide X 48" tall.
It's made of fabric so you can hang it, and take it with you.
Don't you wish you'd had one of these for the last 10 seasons?... something to remind you of all the amazing things you've accomplished?
use this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
to save 33%, but you have to use it before 1/31/21
THAT'S $20 DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR... YOU'D BE A FOOL TO MISS THIS ONE.
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
---
164 lbs (too much loading last night)
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4701082377
SO MANY RACES, SO LITTLE TIME
IT'S LOOKING LIKE THE FALL OF 2021 WILL BE FILLED WITH ALL THE EPIC, ICONIC, BUCKET LIST RACES AN AMATEUR COULD EVER HOPE TO DO. So, what's the plan kids? Gotta pick one, maybe two, possibly three...
... but, can't do 'em all.
Me, I'm going with my gut on at least one... maybe all.
Now, the curious thing about going with the gut is it rarely lines up with the race that best matches my talents... which is what makes them so great.
The expectations are askew.
The unknown turned up to 11.
All of the sudden, I've got a whole new set of arrows needed for my quiver. Could be figuring out lodging in a place with no lodging, food for a race with no support, tires for unknown terrain...
... but why is the gut saying go race X?
Because the gut knows things have got a bit stale and it's time to change it up.
So, right now I'm just filling in My RaceDay Calendar™ with all the possibilities...
... later I'll take out the red Sharpie and put a big red outline around the gut race(s).
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
You did get your calendar didn't you?
The one where the promo code expires Sunday?
Our calendar is HUGE! 27.5" wide X 48" tall.
It's made of fabric so you can hang it, and take it with you.
Don't you wish you'd had one of these for the last 10 seasons?... something to remind you of all the amazing things you've accomplished?
use this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
to save 33%, but you have to use it before 1/31/21
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
---
162.6 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4701082377
YOU CAN SURVIVE WITHOUT A PELOTON
YOU CAN SURVIVE WITHOUT A PELOTON, BUT YOU CANNOT THRIVE WITHOUT ONE... no this is not a ringing endorsement for fancy spin classes on a stationary bike...
... if anything it's a tangential rant.
What I'm talking about Fred is,
the peloton,
the guys,
the crew...
... the posse.
I can survive just fine riding alone, or even one a themthere zwiftoton thingies. Okay, TBH, it'll be a hot day in Antartica before I zwiftoton... but I know for a lot of peeps they're a godsend... so, for me personally, I can survive just fine riding alone...
... but I can't thrive riding alone.
I need my posse.
I need to meet up with the fellas and the ladies.
Whether it's a fake social ride like the Tuesday Morning World Championships where legs are casually ripped off and tossed into the burning fire or a social adventure like DRTY WDNSDY or an actual conversational pace like EasyPeasyThursdee...
... we can't truly thrive without those that push us and pull us and love us.
Speaking of love, don't you just love having an ace up your sleeve? You know, some secret weapon to spring on your posse.
It's impossible to hide a serious upgrade like a new BMC bicycle.
Nearly as difficult to disguise a game changing set of ENVE wheels.
But, for just a few bucks you can massively upgrade your legs.
I'm actually surprised how many people have yet to rub on this magic elixir. My friend SuperDave let me in on this secret. I ran it by Coach Brian who said...
... Dude, I applied it twice every morning during the Tour of Utah and again each evening before I went to sleep.
... which I did myself the morning I broke my PR at Leadville in 2019.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/amp-pr-lotion
One cat who is definitely in the know, John J, purchased 4 bottles yesterday. 4, like four. You think he knows something you don't?
Yes, we ship it for free... and yes, you should use this promo code:
THRIVE
https://pedalindustries.com/products/amp-pr-lotion
---
162.9 lbs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4695912490 - paddle
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4697950397 - ride
F' YEAH!
I TRY NOT TO SWEAR, OUTLOUD... it might be a dad thing, or just the right thing. But, when I'm racing I love the F word...
... not that F word.
The adverb that follows Ride...
... FAST!
Faster is always better...
... to ride faster, isn't to hurry.
Hurrying creates errors.
Fast is a result of practice. It's reptilian. It's reflexes. And, it comes from practice. From doing the right thing, over and over.
As my good friend Olympic Champion Peter Vidmar says...
... Practice makes permanent...
... to which we say...
.... F' yeah, we ride fast!
Especially this guy, who just picked his new BMC Roadmachine... first new bike in years!
I probably could have taken a better pic of the bike, but I just couldn't get enough of that smile!
Don't check out the BMC... website... unless you're into Swiss precision and exceptional engineering.
For sure do not go to their website if you're looking for a cheap solution.
And, in no way should you go to the BMC website unless kicking asst and going fasst is important to you.
In the meantime, we still have a few of these hats in stock.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/hats
Which you can have hand delivered to you from a friendly United States Postal Service worker in just a couple of days for less than the price of a new BMC bicycle.
Yep, that's the truth.
You can have that hat, for less than George's bike.
Delivered.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/hats
---
164 lbs
40 PullUps, 80 PushUps, 50 Squat to Press
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4692962398
YOU KNOW IT'S COLD WHEN...
WE HAD A COLD RIDE TODAY, and before you say sure West Coast softie... let me lay out the raw facts: 5:38am pitch dark start, low temp 28.9 degrees. But, that's not the real indicator of how bonechilling it was...
... this might be:
- Mark C, who hasn't missed the ride in 13 years... missed the ride
- Fashionista Charlie M... wore a flappy long-sleeved flannel
- Mike G, who has never donned more than a jersey... sported shoe covers and arm warmers
- Consistent Chris H, who texted last night I'll be there!... stayed in bed.
... or this:
- Our numbers were down 50%
- Our speed was down 20%
- Our conversation down 70%
- Nobody, and I mean nobody, wanted to be on the front.
... but, I think it was this:
- It never warmed up, average temp was 34
That's a helluva cold ride...
which called for a helluva long, hot shower...
leading to a helluva giant hot chocolate...
finding me with a cranked up space heater jammed between my legs all day....
Sometimes I wonder if my lights weren't so awesome, would I still head out to the dark and dreary world? It's so much easy to roll out knowing I'll be able to see everything... and be seen.
If you're finding excuses to say cozy, maybe you're in need of a little more light in your life?
For road, I'm really digging the VIS 1000 Trooper... it's compact, aero and muy powerful.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
Use promo code: BRIGHT
And get out there and train!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
---
162.6 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4685149829
THERE IS NO ESCAPE
WE CAN'T ESCAPE OUR POTENTIAL FOR GREATNESS, it's in our genes. We are born athletes. Our predecessors ran down their prey, not with speed, with endurance and cunning. They had to as a matter of survival...
... but we don't.
We, not you and me, the collective we no longer need to be athletes. The effects are obvious and tragic.
Look at a distance runner, that's what we were designed for.
Crud, watch a movie from the 50's, that's what we are supposed to look like.
We, you and me, get this.
We see the stairs next to the elevator, and bound up.
We see a mountain road, and dream of climbing... and carving down.
We are attracted to our kindred souls. We push each other. We demand more from each other, without saying a word... or, unleashing a string of salty words when the sitchyation demands.
We can't escape our potential for greatness.
When you're not the fastest or strongest in the jungle, and we aren't, you have to use cunning. Making a plan, coordinating with others, and persisting is what we do best...
... which is why it's so fun to pick a huge personal challenge, register for a giant event and start planning. Methodically working backwards and putting all the pieces into place to be our very best at a given location and time...
... to be greater and better, is in our DNA.
Nothing is better for making memories than a giant calendar.
For inspiration as the event(s) approaches.
To look back on as the years go by.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
Our calendar is HUGE! 27.5" wide X 48" tall.
It's made of fabric so you can hang it, and take it with you.
Don't you wish you'd had one of these for the last 10 seasons?... something to remind you of all the amazing things you've accomplished?
use this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
to save 33%, but you have to use it before 1/31/21
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
—
163.2 lbs
40 PullUps 70 PushUps
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4682097054
YOU NEED TO FEEL THE PACE.
I JUST FINISHED A BOOK THAT HAS ME FREAKIN PUMPED UP! Pumped to train my lycracovered heinie off. To pedal morning, day and night. Plus, way more pushups and pull ups and strength stuff. It has nothing to do with bicycle racing...
... and everything to do with getting after it.
A few quotes:
- I don't do shit for applauses. I don't do shit for fanfare. I do it for me.
- I don't think about yesterday. I think about today, and getting better.
- If you want to be pushed to your limits, you have to train to your limits
If you're into getting better, you're gonna love this book, Living With a Seal, by Jesse Itzler. Jesse invites superendurance athlete and ex-Navy Seal David Goggins to live with him for a month and train him...
... he destroys him, day after day.
The day after day of being pushed to his limits is so motivating. It's just ridiculous some of the things they do. And it got me really thinking how predictable my own training has become.
Yes, I have a process that's worked really well. But, I think it's time to shake it up a bit/a lot. Set some new goals. Try some new methods. Helk, I might even get a power meter again.
As I look over the things I want to accomplish this year... well, I think I can do a helluvalot more. My RaceDay Calendar™ is gonna be key to make that happen.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/raceday-calendars%E2%84%A2
I keep thinking how cool it would be if I'd had these calendars for all my years of racing. Such a great way to memorialize the things we do.
use this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
to save 33%, but you have to use it before 1/31/21
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
PS... click here to check out the book:
—
164.2 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4677087640
THE ARTFUL DODGER
I HAD BIG PLANS TO RIDE IN THE RAIN TODAY. Kept telling myself, Hellyeah I'm riding in the rain!. Thus, I tucked in for my beauty sleep and got down to dreaming...
... of how much better I'd be than everybody else.
I knew the locals would mostly opt for staying in bed. A few might get on their trainers. Where as I would be riding, getting in secret miles.
But, that's not even the main reason. The main reason Fred was this...
... because it rains on raceday.
Yeah, no joke.
And when it does, I'm always thrilled.
First, a good chunk of the racers will straight up DNS.
We don't DNS. Ever. We always S. Because we are badassedly prepared. Always.
Second, of those who start another good chunk will DNF.
We don't DNF. Ever. We always F'ing F! Because that's what we registered for in the first place. Finishing the dern race.
Third, slice off another chunk of racers that will get washed away in the elements.
The soaking shoes, the drenched butt crack, the puddled glasses... most cats can't handle that, it slowly zaps their energy. We love it, because we know they hate it.
A good gnarly rain can easily whittle the competition down by 75%... without you are I having to do a dawgawn thing besides show up prepared.
Easy.
Anyway... as much as I was looking forward to all that rain I didn't get much more than some wet streets, cold toes and a squishy chamois. I'd artfully dodged the main storm and still got a good ride in.
I was never cold thanks to the neverceasestoamaze KOM jacket. It's such a great tool for rainy and cold days. Just a jersey underneath.
Looking at My RaceDay Calendar™ I can see I have a number of opportunities to race in the rain. I don't love it, but I sure ain't afraid of it.
For sure it can rain at Leadville and LoToJa... 2 of my A races... because they are high altitude, during the monsoon season. The local races this winter always have a good chance, because it always rains in CA in February and March.
Will you be prepared?
What's on your calendar?
You do have a calendar don't you?
I mean you gotta have a giant calendar where you can see the whole year, right?
How else can you plan like a pro?
Our calendar is HUGE! 27.5" wide X 48" tall.
It's made of fabric so you can hang it, and take it with you.
Don't you wish you'd had one of these for the last 10 seasons?... something to remind you of all the amazing things you've accomplished?
use this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
to save 33%, but you have to use it before 1/31/21
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
—
163.2 lbs
50 PullUps 150 PushUps
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4669979044
GOT YOU IN A STRANGLEHOLD
YEAH, I LIKE MY TED NUGENT SLOW AND STEADY, LIKE A STRANGLEHOLD... and that's exactly how I feel when I'm planning out my race season. Month by Month. Week by Week. Day by Day...
... until I'm ready to do the deed.
There's just a helluvalot of confidence to be gained by having a long range plan and checking off the boxes of what needs to be done each and every day.
I'm not a killer...
... just methodical. disciplined. patient.
A friend once told me, You give me 10 weeks and I can get you in shape for anything...
... and I believed him. put it into practice.
I plan out my base weeks.
The building intensity weeks.
The race specific training weeks.
If you've never treated yourself to the awesome pleasure of having a Hugh Jass calendar just for yourself, with your important dates now's the time.
If you have experienced the magic of doing the impossible because you planned for it, there's no time like the present.
Trust me... forget that... watch this highly education video:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
Click on the link below, scroll down a touch... turn up the volume, and remember to
use this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
to save 33%, but you have to use it before 1/31/21
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
—
163.6 lbs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4663223170
7.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4665132329 (sometimes ya just gotta ride twice)
WHAT'S YOUR PHILOSOPHY?
WHAT IS YOUR PHILOSOPHY WHEN IT COMES TO RIDING AND RACING YOUR BIKE? Listening to an old Jim Rohn recording I was reminded of his insistence that we all have a personal philosophy. A way of approaching life that is our truth.
... what is your philisophy(s) when it comes to riding and racing you bicycle?
Here are a few of mine:
Every Day Is RaceDay™. To me that means every day has a purpose: recovery, strength, endurance, etc.
Another is PRs > KOMs. Sure, it's great to win a race or snag a KOM. However, it's superior to set a PR. Knowing I did my best and there was nothing left to give is everything.
Ride Fast, Don't Hurry. I got this from the great John Wooden who implored his players to be quick, yet not hurried. Hurrying is when we make mistakes. Being fast or quick means we are error free.
Here's one I haven't talked about enough...
... having a giant calendar of your upcoming events. Mounted up where you see and appreciate what you're committing to make happen. To work backwards and arrange your training, work, family and other commitments for a few key events each year.
I believe in this so much I created a calendar just for us...
... and it's HUGE!
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
We're going to create a video tomorrow... but quite frankly, I'm just too excited to wait.
We're going into production and will be able to ship in about 2 weeks.
Here's the deal... you can order now and save 33%,
using this promo code: PHILOSOPHY
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-2021-my-raceda-calendar%E2%84%A2
What are your philosophies?
—
163.4 lbs
Paddleboard
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4660241280
EVERYTHING COUNTS IN LARGE AMOUNTS
ENDURANCE SPORTS, LIKE OUR BELOVED CYCLING, REQUIRE A LOT OF ENDURING. You already know this. Just like you know the more you ride the deeper your reserves. I was thinking how much riding style has changed in the last 5 years ...
... by adding an endurance hack to my quiver.
There was a time when I'd rarely ride out of the saddle. I was a spinner, maybe more of a grinder. Then I had an encounter with a coach who told me something unbelievable...
I want you do the Live Oak climb out of the saddle next time.
All 5 minutes?
As much as you can.
Why?
Because with your body structure you'll be more efficient.
I didn't believe her.
- I could only ride out of the saddle for about 30 seconds at a time... and that was only when my back was tight or I just need a quick change of pace.
- See number 1.
So I gave it a try. Sure enough, my pace remained the same and my heart rate actually dropped slightly.
But, I was so weak.
That's when I read the Geoff Kabush's metric for mountain bikers... you've got to be able to do 50 push ups. Concurrently, on an episode of Tim Ferris' podcast, Jamai Foxx said the only exercise that matters is pull ups.
Naturally, I decided to combine their advice and start doing push ups and pull ups daily. Those two exercises done regularly have made a huge difference in my riding.
Being able to climb for long stretches out of the saddle allows me to use my muscles differently. Some get to rest a bit while others get to pitch and help for a change.
Want to see how much push up and pull ups matter?
Do a set of each to failure, back to back, when you're fresh. Next time you come in from a moderately easy ride, do those exercises again. I think you'll be surprised at how much more difficult they are post ride.
Plus, there's nothing wrong with looking a little less like a T-Rex and more like a super hero...
... okay, that might be a stretch, but I'll bet you'll linger just a little longer in just your bibs before you pull on the changing poncho next time you're at the races.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
We offer the ponchos in four different color schemes, or we can make them for you team to match your kit and RaceDay Bags™
Use promo code: LARGEAMOUNTS
To save and get free shipping.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
—
162.6 lbs
40 PullUps 120 PushUps 120 squat presses
7.75 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4655039116
OLD TRADITION LEADS TO HAPPY ENDING
RIDE REPORT:
- Was so excited to ride hard today, I could barely sleep.
- Woke up early, still left late.
- PR'd getting to the meet up.
- Had a genius idea on the way home....
Put on your biking clothes.
What.
Kit up, and ride towards me.
Why?
Because we're gonna go to Moulin and indulge ourselves.
Okay!
Now why in Todd's name would I invite Surfergirl to crash my Tuesday tradition of riding with the fellas? What could I possibly be thinking?
It's pretty obvious, really.
1. I ride the last 40+ minutes alone on Tuesdays. Most of the time I'm so smoked one would hardly call it riding. I'm barely able to turn the cranks.
2. Most Tuesdays, Surfergirl isn't surfing. She has a beautiful bike that needs riding. Her pace will synch up nicely with my slog.
3. We both enjoy delicious croissants smothered in goodness.
But, for sure there was one more reason...
... I knew I could bribe into listening to the blowbyblow of the ride.
You're gonna think I'm just trying to sell a bill of good on this next part, but you'd be wrong. What I'm going to do is try and convince you to do what I did this morning... because I really do want the best for you.
Not only was I excited. Not only did I spend a good 20 minutes a day on my legs with the HyperVolt. Not only was I off the bike Sunday, and riding easy yesterday.
TBH, I do the above almost every week any way.
But, this morning I did something I hadn't done since I was ramping up the intensity for Dirty 30 way back in November...
... and it's the reason I left a little late for the ride.
I would put a picture here, but I don't want to give it away to the speed readers. This is really good info, just for you and me.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/my-top-secret-secret-weapons
You'll want to use this promo code: TRADITIONS
Sometimes I put the promo code on the product page, but not this time. This time it's just for the careful readers.
PS... is Surfergirl invited next week? Hellyeah, it's a great tradition.
---
162.6 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4647650387
I HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH TUNNEL VISION
I HAVE TUNNEL VISION. Is it bad? I dunno. Want proof? I can't find a darn thing, even when it's close enough to kill me. Is it curable? I'm not sure I care. It took a long time hone it...
... and it's served me well, manymany times.
For example... One day, after climbing up for a couple of hours, we gathered at the top of the Trabuco trail. Preparing to shred the tight shaley single-track that skirted the super steep mountain side... I was pumped, raring to go.
12ish minutes later, after the more challenging portions, I waited for my pals.
RiderX rolled up.
All that cactus was freaking me out.
Where?
Up there.
Hmmm.
So were those giant, jagged boulders all over the place!
Really?
Yeah, I had to stop a bunch.
Oh...
I wondered if we’d ridden the same trail? I wasn’t being a tool; just hadn’t seen any of it.
That's when I self-diagnosed Tunnel Vision... and I knew exactly how I got it: repeated exposure to challenging situations. The only way to ride 'em was controlling my mind, focusing solely on the ridable parts of the trail. Never even considering the dangers or threats.
It’s not always easy...
... especially as I get older and continue to ride with younger and younger cats. My vision, literal vision, isn’t as sharp. The reactions are a little slower. When my vision expands I have to recenter myself, remind myself to see only the good stuff...
... but, it's worth it, like all superpowers.
One disadvantage to riding with said confidence is rolling up on other riders, hikers, runners, strollermoms, etc...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell
... which is why I love this bell. I wouldn't say it's going to drown out the headphones you can hear from a mile away, but most folks hear it from a good distance and appreciate the cheerful chime.
Use promo code: TUNNEL
You'll save and get free shipping!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell
---
163.6 lbs
PushUps and PUllUps
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4642930993
THE MIND IS THE ATHLETE
ON A RECENT RIDE, WE WERE DISCUSSING ALL THE LESSONS WE'VE LEARNED AND THEIR PARALLELS OFF THE BIKE. Is it all the time we spend doing bikey things that the world starts to look so bikey? I found this amazing statement in a book I just finished...
... and I naturally applied to bicycle racing.
The power of one is above all things the power to believe in yourself, often well beyond any latent ability you may have previously demonstrated. The mind is the athlete, the body simply the means it uses to run faster, jump higher, shoot straighter, kick better, swim harder, hit further or box better.
To really get the impact of the above statement, you'll need to read the book. A movie was made, but ya know... the book is always better.
Don't fret, I haven't given away the punchline or even a hint of what the book is about... just a piece of what us bikey people stow might in our minds when we find the going particularly rough.
Believe in yourself.
The mind is the athlete.
The body the means.
Tomorrow, I'm going to wake as I have for the past 20ish years and read Dr. King's famous speech. If you've never read it start to finish, click here. Afterward, I'll review the dreams I have for 2021.
Then, I'll head out for a ride.
It's one of my favorite rituals.
So, if you're trying to reach me...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
I'll get back to you as soon as I can... no doubt I'll be wearing this super soft shirt with the not so cuddly message.
Use promo code: PEEKAY
And you can get this shirt delivered for $17, all in.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
---
164.4 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hours sleep
http://strava.com/activities/4638188185
A PERFECT DAY FOR SOME T AND A.
THERE'S A LOCAL SINGLE-TRACK I'VE PLAYED ON PLENTY OF TIMES CALLED T AND A. I'm not sure what the T and the A stand for or what the phrase T and A means...
... but, I know I got a lot of T and A today.
For example:
Training at Altitude,
we spent about half the ride over 5000'
Together and Alone,
we started together until Andy couldn't contain himself any longer and rode on ahead.
Trailblazing and Advice,
we did some serious trailblazing and were advised to stay helk off the private property.
Traction and Adrenalin
there's nothing like the adrenalin rush you get with the traction of fat tires carving pavement.
However, the best T and A of the day was by far...
... all the trails and asphalt we covered.
It was a perfect day for riding all kinds of surfaces.
Of course, our tails were still lit with lights. It's just an easy safety measure.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
These lights last a long time and have nearly 180 degrees of awareness.
Use promo code TANDA
to save on any of our lights.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
---
164 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hours sleep
PEACEFUL, EASY FEELING
FRIDAYS, WHEN I CAN PULL IT OFF, AND I TRY TO PULL IT OFF EVERY FRIDAY, I like to sneak over to a little out of the way place where nobody knows me. You know, the kind of place where your people don't hang. One you can ride to, prop up your bike, get a snack...
... and do nothing.
Doing nothing ain't as easy as it sounds.
My preciousphone is with me for snapping pics along the ride, and it's hard as helk not to reach for it. So, I turn it off.
After a few moments, the urge to grab it goes away and the colors and sounds of this part of town become more vibrant and distinct.
I used to bring a note pad and jot down ideas, but I don't like that any more.
Doing less makes the stop so much more enjoyable.
It's addicting...
... and a great way to start the last day of the work week, fresh and creative.
... and roll in to tomorrow's suretobeblistering ride rested and ready.
Since this promo did so well, I'm going to extend it through the weekend.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
My all around favorite is the Protone. If I had to chose one that would be it. The Valegro is excellent for MTB... and I really like it for night riding because it's easy to mount a helmet light up there. The Utopia is most aero. The Rapido is a good all arounder.
Use promo code: GoChar
To save 20%. Code expires on 1/16/21.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
164.2 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4625406198
IT'S NOT A WORKOUT, AND IT'S NOT WORK... TELLTALE SIGNS YOU MIGHT OR MIGHT NOT HAVE A PROBLEM
YEAH, BUT YOU LIKE IT... is a complaint/comment I often get from, well, everybody.
I'm going for a giant ride.
I wish I could.
You can, if I can.
Yeah, but you like it.
I'm want to head to work early today.
I wish I wanted to.
You can, if I can.
Yeah, but you like it.
I'm diving in deep on this history book.
I wish I did that.
You can, if I can.
Yeah, but you like it.
I know you get the joke. You probably got it first time, but not everybody is as sharp as you. Just like not everybody can do what you and I can do...
... and it grand to love what we do so much it ain't work at all?
... to get all the benefits of working out, without working at all?
... to really work hard on something because we love it?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
These gloves remind me of how lucky we are.
Not because the are super lightweight and can be worn year round, on and off road.
Not because Jimmy proclaims: Todd, these gloves are like glue on my grips. I love 'em.
Not because they have tactile thread for snapping quick pics with touch screens.
It's those colors.... if you're into that sort of thing, use this promo code:
ITAINTWORK
That code wills save ya 15% through the weekend.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/patriotic
---
164.2 lbs
Paddle
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4622214102
IT'S A MYTHTERY TO ME
APPARENTLY WE HAVE SOMETHING OF A REPUTATION. People are concerned, even scared, they won't be able to keep up. Then, they don't show up...
... tonight a brave soul took a chance.
Maybe it was the ride description? Gravel adventure, friendly pace.
Maybe it was her new bike itching to get dirty?
Maybe the timing was right?
While the rest of us were whining about this and that prepping to start riding, Char just came right out with it...
... I'm worried I won't keep up, y'all are so fast.
I wasn't worried for one second about her chances, because when we say gravel adventure, friendly pace... by golly, we mean it!
For someone whose an accomplished track racer like she is, jumping on a gravel bike is easy. Riding on a wide gravel road is no big deal. That's why we took her straight to our local single track; the twisty one, with a few burgeoning rain ruts...
... so she'd have an adventure, be challenged and improve.
We all had a blast, witnessing one of the most glorious sunsets in recent memory. There's just something about this kind of ride for forging friendships.
It's a mystery to me, this jumping to conclusions. We may have a reputation for being a heartless bunch, but we sure ain't cruel. That's the problem with myths I guess...
... or maybe the power of myths.
Whatever it is, I'll continue doing my best to set each ride's expectations.
If the description is easy, it's probably gonna be too easy and I'll end up being half-wheeled the entire ride... which means you probably won't be invited back.
If the invitation says adventure, expect to be challenged... and encouraged.
If the there is a speed warning, we ain't waiting so make sure you know you're way home.
It's good to mix up the rides, and the people you ride with. Join us or join someone closer or start you're own ride. Just keep your head up to the ride description...
... starting with the ever excellent KASK Helmets
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
My all around favorite is the Protone. If I had to chose one that would be it. The Valegro is excellent for MTB... and I really like it for night riding because it's easy to mount a helmet light up there. The Utopia is most aero. The Rapido is a good all arounder.
Use promo code: GoChar
To save 20%. Code expires on 1/16/21.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/helmets
---
166.2 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4617351551
THE WORST SON EVER
BE CAREFUL, IT'S WET OUT THERE! said the voice in my head.
It's hard to shed the mom's voice... at any age.
But, it wasn't in my head...
... her concerned pronouncement shrieked down from her room... in our home.
Shyte!... next thing I knew I was wondering if my jersey matched my bib and if I needed to get her permission to be home late after playing at the office all day.
... and worst thing is... she's going to read this between now and the time I get home from tomorrow's ride. She reads them all. She's my No. 1 fan for heck's sake.
I'm doomed.
Which only means I'm going to ride even crazier, and be home later.
Just kidding, because...
Our daughter also has a room at our AirBNB... which she will be vacating at approximately 2pm to drive back to school - 2 states away.
... ya know what I'm gonna say...
Be careful... blah, blah, blah.
---
Can't wait to load up my new Wild Child RaceDay bag... they're in production now.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
It's gonna go perfect with the kit... and I don't even need my mama to help me pick it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
_____
164.8 lbs
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4609750855
CLAWING THE CLIMB
THE 4200' CLIMB WE DID SATURDAY REINFORCED A TRUTH. The lookout was high, high above. It was tiny. White. Barely distinguishable. Within 5 minutes, nothing had changed. After 10 minutes I could see the hotel where we started looming large. Shortly thereafter, I realized how important it would be to control my mind...
... because things weren't changing.
The hotel still seemed close, and the lookout far away.
I hadn't prepared mentally for this kind of climb at all.
For 45 minutes we ground out the miles. Some pitches were 20%, and the average was just under 10%. We stopped talking. Andy would ride ahead on the very steepest sections, I'd work my way back to him when the climb backed off.
All the while, the hotel still appeared large and the lookout nothing more than a small white box.
This is what I call clawing the climb.
Staying on top of the pedals, maintaining a sustainable pace, never slowing down.
Clawing our way up the climb vs cracking and letting the mountain claw our souls.
Suddenly, the perspective changed.
The hotel now seemed minuscule and the lookout a giant white beacon towering above the pine trees. The grave grasp of the hotel was released and the magnetic pull of the lookout unleashed.
15 minutes later we stopped at the summit. The view was clear and beautiful and worth every clawing pedal stroke.
I love that feeling of clawing and clawing until where I started is far, far away and the destination seems inevitable...
... which is why I often wear this shirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
To inspire people to get outside, put their phones away, connect with the physical world.
If you're of the same mindset, use promo code: CLAW
... and save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
---
164.8
Stretch PushUps PullUps
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4604145336
HOW TO SIZE UP YOUR COMPETITION
THE BEST RIDERS ARE EASY TO PICK OUT FROM THE PACK. You just have to know what you're looking for...
... and it's not their fancymatchy kit or unobtanium rig.
Nor is it a question of ectomorph vs endomorph.
Don't let pack position fool ya.
The confident knowitall bark ain't it either.
Chiseled muskulls? Forget about 'em.
Sunglass arms over helmet straps? Nope.
No gloves? Gloves?
Elbows bent, hands relaxed yet secure? Good guess...
Shaved legs? puuulllease...
It's the spin.
The spin, I tell ya!
The truly great riders have an unmistakable grace in their spin.
Easy.
Smooth.
Effortless.
Unchanged whether a recovery ride or a legripping charge.
They pedal in circles, meaning their is pressure on the pedals all the way around. They press down. The bottom of the stroke is like scraping mud off your shoe bottoms. Pull up. Forward across the top. One continuous motion. No dead spots.
A smooth pedal stroke is an indication of a well-trained athlete. Someone who's not relying just on natural talents but who has put in the effort the learn proper pedaling technique to maximize their potential. AKA, the kinda rider we all aspire to become.
Want to know if you have dead spots?
Go to a flat road. Shift to a very easy gear. Unclip one pedal. If there is a point in your pedal stroke where you are pedaling air, that is a dead spot.
One legged drills are a great way to get rid of the dead spots and pedal like a pro.
Do these on your easy days... and remember, Every Day Is RaceDay™
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/hats
Use promo code SPIN
to save 20% on all headwear through Tuesday, Jan 12th.
---
164.6
Walks
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4601756678
EVERY STORY TELLS A PICTURE
SEVEN YEARS AGO MY SON TREVOR DID A SUPER GNARLY RIDE. For sure, I told myself, I'll do that ride in a couple of weeks. It took seven years, but it was totally worth it...
... up Harrison Grade, down Palomar, with a lot of snow riding thrown in for good times.
I'd share the pictures, but I was so excited to get going I left my preciouspet iphone in the van... so, let me paint the picture.
At 8am, on a gorgeous winter's day, we left the Harrah's Casino in Funner, CA.
The first 5 miles were mainly downhill.
It was 35ish degrees.
I was donning just my kit and the KOM jacket. Andy was dressed similarly... because we dress for the ride and not the rollout.
Within 18 minutes we turned right to start the climb, and thaw-out. Each of us on BMC URS gravel bikes... Andy had just picked his up.
Nate Harrison Grade is an 8.5 mile climb with 4200' of vert... with some pitches close to 20%. And, it's all on dirt.
Nearing the top I spotted a patch of snow on the embankment. Then more patches. Followed not by water, but black ice. It was exquisite. Cool, cool air while we climbed at a decent pace through the pine trees to the lookout.
A lot of people have done that climb. Some famous, some very fast. Most head on over to the store and then drop down Palomar.
Not us.
Andy had scouted a route that would take us down to a frozen pond then back onto dirt roads that would pop us out at the famous Palomar Observatory.
Now you might be thinking, how are we going to navigate a forgotten road with snow patches up to 50 feet long and 8 inches deep when everybody knows Andy doesn't ride with electronics like phones or bike computers and The Old Diesel left his phone in the van...
... slowly would be the answer.
We didn't care because we were out for an adventure. We picked our way up the next climb, making a few wrong turns along the way.
Finally we came to a snow patch that was at least 100 yards long, down a pretty steep road. We figured we were probably close to the next major road. But, we weren't sure. We'd been riding for 3 hours we were running out of time.
We played it safe and turned around.
Forty minutes later we were at the top of the south side of Palomar mountain.
This is a paved road we have gone down many times. It's famous to the locals, and to anybody who has followed the Tour of California. There are about 40 or so turns. Some are high speed sweepers and some of the turns nearly turn back on themselves with a recommended speed of 20 mph.
It's also a rough road.
Plenty of cracks to rattle your bones and your nerves when your going faster than most cars.
We weren't racing it.
The sensation on the gravel bikes was dramatically different than on road bikes. The big 40mm tires at low pressure give all kinds of confidence...
... like PRs all the way down confidence.
That surprised the heck out of me... to upload and see I'd PR'd it all the way down the mountain without trying.
Speaking of turns, turns out we were about a 1/2 mile away from the road we were looking for when we turned around at the big snow field.
I can't wait to go back and complete the route and really charge down Palomar.
For sure I'll bring my preciouspet with the Trail Forks App... and of course the KOM Jacket which once again proved the perfect tool for keep me warm on the downhills and tucking neatly away on the climbs.
Use promo code KOMLAYER to get the arm warmers free.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900
Click here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900
Use promo code KOMAdventure
PS... watch the neat trick I teach in the video, you'll see it when you click on one of the jackets... you'll thank me later for this one.
---
166.2
Sunset Paddle
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4594406407
UNIMAGINABLE RESULTS
IT WAS ONLY AFTER TWO MILES OF HIKING WITH LOCKED UP/CRAMPING LEGS THAT I LEARNED HOW TO RIDE VISIONQUEST. At the time, I was well beyond miserable. The 90 degree heat, swarming horseflies and circling vultures were overwhelming...
... I just wanted it to end.
Weeks passed out at the giant parking lot where we did crit races until I finally learned how corner and carry my speed vs sprinting out of the corners to catch back up to the group. The humiliating final sprint resulted in elation for some and a sagging head as I crossed the line last again.
... I just wanted to be in the hunt.
I reckon y'all have stories like that yerselves...
... and ain't it a curious thing how unimaginable results can come out of trying experiences.
Why just the other day I was thinking about the time I lost my ID on a bike ride, which lead to the dandiest wallet ever.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
What is so awesome about this wallet is how in keeps everything tight... and keeps me from carrying a million cards and such... PLUS!, it will not ever in a million years fall out of your jersey pocket.
Use promo code UNIMAGINABLE
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
---
164.6
PullUps and PushUps
8.2 hours
https://www.strava.com/activities/4588040510
AFTER A SUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF WHINING, GROUP IS READY TO RIDE
IT WAS A SATURDAY LIKE ANY OTHER SATURDAY...
Hey.
Hey.
I so tired, stayed out way too late.
Me too, musta rode 500 miles already this week.
Hey.
What's up?
Ugh... ate way too much over the holidays.
Me too, first word outta Rocky's mouth when he came back was Did you put on weight?
Hey.
Damn its cold.
I hate it went it's cold, takes forever to warm up.
And with that we set 200 PRs and stole 23.5 KOMs.
We would have stole 24, but Jeff Gibbons wasn't with us to pull us along with his new secret weapon.
Who is Jeff Gibbons?
Oh, just the luckiest guy in the world...
... winner of our $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
I hope Jeff is a regular reader.
Thank you all for participating... here's a promo code for free gloves with your next PR Lotion purchase.
Purchase the PR Lotion and the Gloves and use this code at check out
IJUSTWANNAWIN
You're Awesome!
---
164.8
Stretch/Plank/Hypervolt
7.8 hrs
no ride
WHERE TO CARRY YOUR REPAIR KITS
I'M ALWAYS IMPRESSED BY RIDERS WHO COME PREPARED WITH PROPER TOOLS FOR A QUICK FIX... which covers most of us. And we should. We are better skilled than 90% of riders out there at doing a quick fix. We're racers dawgawnit, and ain't got time to waste...
... I'm even more impressed by those who carry toolkits in their heart.
On a winter's day, long ago, shivering as we all bombed Live Oak Canyon, I heard the dreaded pssst pssst pssst of a rather rapid slow leak. I knew I was in big trouble.
Standing slack-jawed as the group rolled on... panic set in. It was the bottom of the canyon, I was shaking, couldn't even close my hands. It was so bad I'd had trouble coming to a stop.
Big Craig pulled up.
Slow leak, can't get the tire off. Fingers are done.
No prob.
He stopped, because he carries a set of tools in his heart.
We've all done the same thing, slowed or stopped to help a rider out...
... now seems like a great time to bust out the most important tools: charity, patience and kindness.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag
We make these in the here in the UNITED State of America. By hand. From innertubes...
... and ship to you for a mere 20 dollah.
Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag
---
164.6
Stretch/Plank/Hypervolt
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4579928464
CYCLING IS SO LIMITED
MY CRANK LENGTHS ARE 172.5 AND 175. Which means the diameter around the circle my feet travel is at most 350mm or just under 14" in 'merican. Hardly a stretch for my 32" inseam...
While I was not riding today I still managed to move a lot of weight in a short amount of time.
I did a 50 pullups today, it's about an 18" move from extension to head above bar. All told I pulled up over 8000 lbs.
With the 150 pushups I did, my head moved about 12". I'm not sure how to calculate the total weight pushed.
The 150 shoulder presses I did was with 15 lbs hand weights, which a total of 4500 lbs.
The growth we experience on and off the bike is mostly achieved through many small movements...
... often with our hands and feet, so keep 'em protected in style.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
Right now, you can get socks free when you purchase gloves. Put them both in your shopping cart and go to check out.
Use this promo code: SMALLMOVEMENTS
Why these gloves and socks... because I said so and because I created them just for you and me.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
165.4
50 pullups 150 pushups 150 shoulder presses
7 hrs
no ride today
---
165.4
50 PullUps 150 PushUps 150 ShoulderPresses
7 hrs
no ride today
ON THE 9TH DAY THE DIESEL RESTED
LAST WEEK WAS A BIG ONE. 18 hours in the saddle. It's a lot for a young tike such as me. It was part of my plan. Not only did I have the time, but the weather was incredible all week. Now for the rest of my plan...
... proper recovery.
First off... let me point out that my week starts on Monday, not Sunday. So, if you happen to get your hands on my calendar you'll notice it's special that way.
The 18 hours started Monday and ended Saturday. It's the following Monday night now, and I'm not riding tomorrow... not Wednesday. Maybe Thursday?
Which is quite a few days off for a regular5dayaweekkindaguy.
Mainly, I just thought it would fun to do a giant week and take a good chunk off. Let the body recover...
... until the mind can't stand it no more.
Changing it up kinda thing.
Speaking of changing it up.. the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway has ended. We'll announce a winner via this very blog this week... a new contest will launched around the 15th - and I dropped a big hint of what will be involved up above.
Wondering what we're giving away next time?
We'll it won't be the amazing KOM jacket.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900
Because the contest won't end for a while and you probably need a primo jacket such as this right away.
Use promo code: 9THDAY
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black?variant=30180238884900
---
165
WEIGHTS
8 hrs
no ride today
ADDICTED TO PAIN?
LATELY I'VE NOTICED A NEW HABIT OR TENDENCY IN MY APPROACH TO THINGS. If there's a way to make it more uncomfortable I'll do it. And, it feels great. For example, I've been rolling out very underdressed lately...
... just a jersey and bibs in the 40s.
Or, walking barefoot across very sharp rocks vs the smooth path.
I wasn't really conscious of this until yesterday. After an extremely hot bath, akin to a smoking hot sauna, I rose and turned the shower on pure cold...
... it took my breath away, WimHoff style...
... deep, rapid breathing went on for at least 2 minutes.
Truth be told, I think we can get too comfortable. Overbundled in the cold, overairconditioned in the heat.
It's not good.
Racing can go sideway real fast. At altitude, the weather can dramatically shift in minutes. We can travel to an unfamiliar locale and bring all the wrong gear. And so on...
... the point being we need to train for the bad situations. We don't want them, but we want to be ready for them... knowing most of our competitors won't be prepared, we can thrive when the situation becomes misearable.
Riding through that cold on 1/1 in just my jersey while my pals were bundled up I wasn't concerned. I knew in an hour it'd be warmer. Instead I concentrated on feeling heat in my hands and feet. It's weird, but with practice I seem to be getting better at it.
What does walking on sharp rocks have to do with bike racing? Not much, except gaining confidence at handling adversity.
But, the hothot bath to chilly shower tied it all together...
... I felt damn alive!
It was invigorating to say the least.
After I went to work on my latest creation which should be ready for primetime in a few more days.
In the meantime, if you're inspired at all to start or finish in the cold and dark...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
Use promo code: LIGHTS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
---
165
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4562945088
LET'S VACCINATE THOSE SUCKERS!
WHAT A BUNCH OF SUCKERS... all those cats who are fired up to start new habits. I'm like the Grinch watching all the little Who's down in Whoville with their new gym clothes and new gear... maybe even a bike or two. They're spending this weekend hatching their plans for a fit and healthy 2021...
... go get 'em.
They have no chance.
None.
They gonna fail.
Big.
But not us.
Because we've got a superpwer to keep us on the straight and narrow. And, they know it. That's the part that drives me nuts... they know our superpower, even ask about.
Hey man, what's new?
Oh, you know working, family stuff and some bike riding.
Are you still racing?
Are you still breathing air?... yes, of course.
I'm only that sassy with my closest friends. But that's the gist.
They work out.
We work towards a goal, endlessly fascinated with what's possible.
They've got the Resolution Virus 21...
... we've got the vaccine.
- Find an event, virtual if that fills your tire. A distant date.
- Make it big as you dare.
- Get ready for it.
- Do it.
- Have fun.
- Learn from it.
- Make it lifestyle.
Let's go do some vaccinating!
If you're lucky enough to have some infected riders, be sure you prescribe the good stuff.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/do-epic-stuff
And we'll include the beanie of your choice... just remember to order the beanie
and use promo code: DOSOMETHINGEPIC
This offer ends Monday night... don't you dare ask me to extend it.
use promo code: DOSOMETHINGEPIC
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/do-epic-stuff
---
165.2
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4556672526
AS A RIDE ORGANIZER THERE IS ONE PHRASE I LOVE TO HEAR
TODAY WE RODE TODDY'S NAUGHTY NEW YEAR'S RIDE. Named such because I liked the sound of it and I knew for sure NYE was going to be a massive calorie consumption the likes of which would require a helluva ride to work off. With any luck, someone would be hacked off that it was too long or too hard or too big. But that's not what turns me on...
... what turns me on starts off with my standard disclaimer
We leave on time,
bring our own food and gear,
know how to fix your bike and
find your way home.
... I like company on epic rides, I don't like babysitting.
Selfish... maybe?
I view it as looking out for the good of the group. Did we stop for Mark when his tire was losing air?.. yes, of course. One guy having one mishap is not a ride killer... but, stopping can quickly get out of hand. Ergo the mean and heartless disclaimer.
What turns me on even more is hearing...
I didn't even know half of those trails
... I'm a cruise director at heart.
The most local of locals snacked on delicious newtothem singletrack. Andy drove up from Oceanside and couldn't believe all the gravelness we have.
How did I accomplish such a feat of novelty?
It's part of one of my most top secretest of training secrets.
The one nobody believes in.
The one few are willing to do, ever.
Yeah, that one.
Do you do it?
Do you ever get on your bike and poke around the edges of town? Wander down unknown roads, alleys, trails, etc.
For some reason, many riders can't fathom the idea of riding nowhere for long periods of time.
Here's how to do it: Ride with absolutely no idea of where you're headed. Be hellbent on not doing the same old ride.
Here's when to do it: On the easy days, the recovery days and the long slow distance days.
Here's why to do it: Your body and mind need and crave rides like these.
Here's what do do when you find some good stuff: invite your friends to come join ya... have your own disclaimer... and a helluva day.
And after a day like that, I like to wear a beanie like this
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.
If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black. You chose.
Quantities are limited.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
166
Stretch n HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4551089377
DO YOU SMOKE AFTER SPRINTING?
DIESEL, DO YOU SMOKE AFTER SPRINTING?
I dunno, I never checked.
Yea, that's an ode to the great Austin Powers when asked if he smoked after sex.
But, ya know it's the silly time of year when most of us write down all the things we want to get done in the coming year...
... neglecting to recognize all the wins we had this year.
My wins:
- First grandchild
- 32 years of marital hard times, challenges and beautiful bliss
- Kids are all wonderful adults
- PEDALindustries survived... for a business that is event driven there ain't been much a tailwind this year... so, yeah, proud of that.
- Launched another successful product, the Changing Poncho
- Launched the PEDALposse
- Starting to figure out promotion through contests
- Snagged a podium at my only road race
- Had a great trip to Cactus Cup and learned a lot
- Mission accomplished at Dirty 30
- Mentored Rocky from shipping to design to running production
- Launched a bike shop with Chris
- Had a chance to connect with 10s of 1000s of wonderful people like you via this blog.
Planned for wins next year?
Stay tuned...
... it's gonna be good.
Maybe even better than this...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
In case you do smoke after sprinting
use promo code: 21WINS
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
162.6
Sunset beach walk
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4545917334
THIS IS THE GROUP YOU'RE LOOKING FOR
I WOKE UP THE OTHER DAY AND HAD A CHOICE TO MAKE: ride with the group where I was sure to be the fastest or ride with the group where everyone was getting faster. I'm always down for being challenged...
... but that's not why I chose the latter.
Getting faster doesn't necessarily mean every single ride is a veritable beatdown.
It's a mindset...
... and I really like people who are fascinated with getting faster for the sheer sake of discovering what's possible.
Yeah, I get thehellbeatoutofme a lot of the time. The rest of the riding I'm rubbing elbows (we ride that close) with really smart, dedicated athletes. Sharing all we know about riding faster.
Which group are you going to ride with next year?
Are you going to be the catalyst in your existing group?
Who are you going to invite to join you?
Will you be on a new set of ENVE™ Wheels? The contest ends tomorrow at midnight PST. Winner announced next week via blog.
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
After all we can do, it's nice to know we're rolling on the best equipment.
Enter here:
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
162.6
Stretch HyperVolt
7.75
https://www.strava.com/activities/4540911609
THE 3 WAYS I ACKNOWLEDGE OTHER RIDERS
ONE DAY KEVIN AND WERE RIDING ALONG AND HAD THE DUMBEST CONVERSATION.
Why did you head up that guy?
Whadaya mean?
Well, you did the head up thing.
And...
Why not the head down thing?
I dunno. Does it matter?
We never resolved the proper head maneuver when acknowledging another rider. But, it stuck in my own head and really got my OCD going... to the point where I could hardly go for a ride without thinking about that conversation.
It went on for years.
This year I seem to have given it up, opting instead for the low flying peace sign. I picked that up riding my moto around town. It's the thing you'd never notice unless you were on a moto. If you pay attention you'll see moto riders flash the low peace sign as they ride by in opposite directions. It's a signal we know we're up to something awesome.
Which means if you see me riding along, you might get a peace sign.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace
Still one of my favorite kits.
The socks are pretty cool too.
Use this promo code: PEACEOUT
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace
---
165
Stretch HyperVolt
7.75 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4535529649
MY VERY PRECIOUS PRESENT
THERE IS A NEVER ENDING CHORUS ENCOURAGING US TO LIVE IN THE PRESENT. But, which present?
The one when I'm doing intervals and time keeps draggin' on?
The one when I'm racing and time flies?
The effort is the same, maybe even harder when racing, but the sense of time is almost exact opposites of each other.
Why is that?
How are you going to approach 2021? Waiting for things to get better, holding out for normal...
.... the interval approach or the racing approach?
While you're thinking about that...
... think about how nice it is to have that brain of yours nicely covered on and off the bike this time of year.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.
If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black. You chose.
Quantities are limited.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
163.6
Stretch HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4531436054
IS THERE ANY LUCK IN BICYCLE RACING?
THERE ARE TWO THINGS I KNOW FOR SURE WHEN IT COMES TO BICYCLE RACING.
- Time = Speed
- More Racing = More Energy
We all know the first one by now. No one said it better than the great Eddie Merckx when prescribed piles of miles. If you want to go faster ride more.
The second one goes like this... the more you race the less energy you waste on nerves. The prep the night before, the drive over, the sign in, the warm up, the waiting on the start line... it all becomes routine, second nature. Which is why the cooler heads always perform best when it counts. They have more energy.
Which begs the question... is there any luck involved in bicycle racing?
Not much.
Not like puddle skimming golf shots, tipped football passes, or the like.
We don't depend on luck. We depend on hard work and properly maintained equipment.
But, then again... it would be darn fine to be lucky enough to win a set of ENVE™ Wheels.
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
After all we can do, it's nice to know we're rolling on the best equipment.
Enter here:
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
163.6
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4526441206
A RIDE BY ANY OTHER NAME
BILL SHAKESPEARE SAID IT BEST VIA JULIETTE, That which we call a ride by any other name would still be rad. It's great to take the time to properly name our rides. To find them later and to exercise our creativity are my top reasons...
... but, sometimes there's a sneakier reason.
The sneaky reason in today's ride name is to plant a seed in my mind and the minds of my friends that on New Year's Day we're gonna do something big. So I named the ride...
... Recon Toddy's Naught New Year's Ride.
By putting it out there early I'm committing myself to get out and ride on 1/1 as well pre-committing my friends todo the same.
Inserting Recon in the title might create some curiosity as to where I rode.
Changing my name to Toddy sounds playful, and enticing.
Using the adjective Naughty gives me leeway as the inviter to throw in a few unexpected sections.
Wrapping it up with New Year's Ride makes it sound official, commemorative... like the kind of ride you don't want to miss.
You might be asking yourself should you come?
Yes.
What kind of bike would work??
Gravel best... MTB workwill work fine... only the most talented would ride a road bike.
How long will it be?
Somewhere between 100k and 100mi, around 6000' of vertical... figure 6-7 hours.
Any sag?
Nope, but we will have a 24hr AM/PM on the route about 3 hours in.
What will the pace be like?
We'll be moving right along, and we will be chatting.
What if I have a mechanical?
The bigger the group the less likely we are to stop, bringing a buddy would be a good idea.
Is this a no drop ride?
Aren't they all?... don't get dropped.
Start time?
I'll announce the exact start time later, somewhere between 8 and 9 am.
Any other questions, drop me a note.
It'll be long enough to definitely want some Butt'r, and maybe some PR Lotion.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
Use promo code TODDYSNAUGHTY
And save 30% on the 2nd item.
---
164.4
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4521964989
From the ride
BAD SANTA
SANTA DONE BLOWED IT AGAIN... no new bike, not even a pair of bike socks. Instead, wrapped up addressed not just to me but Surfergirl as well, there was a gift that would leave me feeling like I needed to be in traction tonight...
... my butt hurts, my feet hurt and my knees are a tad tender.
What the heck was Santa thinking?
Tomorrow's gonna be miserable.
Why would he give me and Surfergirl a gift like this?
- We have to use muscles we never use by moving quickly side to side, rocketing forward and backward... and exploding upward of all things.
- Plus, we'll end up spending a lot more time together and socially with our non-cycling/surfing friends.
- To make it worse, there's always a winner and a loser. We're just gonna get a lot more competitive.
Who want's a gift like that?
I thought he would reward me for collaborating with him to make gifts for bike people...
... like this new Tour de France inspired bag we collaborated with Horton Collection.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-tour-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
Each panel of the bag features an authentic and historical picture I picked out for this bag. Just for you. It's truly one of a kind.
Check it out
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-tour-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
---
164.6
Stretch HyperVolt
6 hrs - I gotta stop staying up late with the kids
https://www.strava.com/activities/4517438824
SHINEY BIKEY THINGS
CHRISTMAS TIME... it always sneaks up on me. Somehow the jingles and bells don't really touch me until today, the 24th. Echos of Christmas past arrive. Tomorrow they will be much stronger. I'll arise and enjoy the only thing I've ever wanted...
... to be together with family.
Wherever you are, wherever you go I hope you'll be able to connect with those you hold most precious...
... and maybe you'll even wake up to some shiny bikey things.
Or, maybe you're like me and the family has long given up hope trying to find the right shiny bikey thing...
... in that case, you may want to treat yourself to a heckuva bell.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell?variant=31243876008068
They are perfect for those times you're slaying the trail and you want a nice polite way to say I'm here and I'm coming through.
Use promo code: SLAYBELLS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell?variant=31243876008068
---
165 (I hope I get some willpower for Christmas)
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs - kids are home
https://www.strava.com/activities/4513469100
IF I HAD A MILLION DOLLARS...
IT USED TO BE SOMETHING TO BE A MILLIONAIRE, it's still something to be a million foot climber. This time of year we get to see all the coolclimbingkids humblebrag about their achievements. And, well, I don't know about you...
... but I think that is totally cool.
Mainly because I've never done it. Nor do I think I could.
I'm typically 600,000-700,000'. About 12,000' per week. This year I'll wind up close to 750,000'. 15,000' per week.
Which is a lot.
My Florida pals are lucky to get 30,000' in a year. Did you ever notice that? Look one of them up... their climbs are overpasses, and the occasional trip where the get some real climbing in.
The Everest in 7 days challenge I did for myself was plenty hard. I was tuckered out the following week.
1,000,000'... one millllyun feet.. is out of my question, especially when I break it down. Then all possibility escapes me.
52 weeks would be 20,000' per week. Which I have completed plenty of times. But not 52 times in a row!
20,000' per week would be 4000' per ride because I ride about 5 days a week. Again, done it plenty of times. But not every single ride.
How do those millionfootaires get it done?
Do they simply have the right stuff?
Genetics
Terrain
Time
Can us mere mortals join their coolclimbingkid club?
One thing that would sure help is a superduper featherweight set of ENVE™ Wheels.
Which you could win, if you enter the contest.
And you could get double the entries on any tshirt you purchase between now and December 31st at mid-night.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
Here are a few of the choices
One thing you may not know about yours Diesel is I started off in the tshirt business and I've probably printed well over 1,000,000 tshirts at this point.
That's not important.
What's important is super soft cotton we use and special inks you can't feel. Chech 'em out:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
---
164.6
Diesel Strong
6 hrs - kids are home
no ride
