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Strava Widgets Styling

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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

Rip On Raceday

 


>

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

Rip On Raceday


>

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

Rip On Raceday


>

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

Rip On Raceday


>

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

Rip On Raceday

 


>

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

Rip On Raceday



 


>

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

 


>

IT WAS ABOUT THE TRUTH, NOT ARMS RACE

I HATE TIMETRIALS.  I mean, I like 'em, but, yeah, I hate 'em.  It's not because I'm not great at 'em, and trust me I'm not.  It's because...

... they hurt so dang bad.

Not only that, it's...

  • lonely
  • painful
  • humbling

... is there anything more truthful than getting passed by your minute man?

No drafting.
No wily cunning.

Nothing matters except...

... who is the strongest,
and who can suffer the most.

Oh, wait, one more thing matters...

... who's got the most money to afford the most advanced gear.

When everything tiny thing adds time and seconds matter...

... it can turn into an arms race.

I'm okay with that to a point.

Butttttttttt, don't ya think participation would rise...

... if we raced Merckx-style?

At least at the amateur level?

On our road bikes vs tt bikes?
With road helmets?
And "normal" road wheels?
And... you get the point right?

As much as I hate/love a tt, I truly appreciated Tucson Bicycle Classic for making their tt be done on road bikes the last to years.

It's just a lot more fair/approachable/inviting...

... and equally miserable for all.

That's the truth.

Side note:  I think I love XC MTB racing because it's basically a mass start time trial.  The terrain naturally and quickly separates us.  

--- 

168.4 lbs 
8.5 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 
51

 

 


>

WERE YOU AS DORKY AS THIS?

WHEN I WAS JUST GETTING INTO THE SPORT, I was such a dork.  A small percentage of you will disagree, maybe even swear at me, but nothing says...

... stay clear, like a mirror.

I know, I know, some of us are damaged and can't look over our shoulders.

Too stiff,
crap balance.

I was neither of those.

I was a spry young newb.

Excited to ride and race.

And my girlfriend of the time wanted to get me something cool.

I quickly mounted the mirror to the end of my handlebar - see pic above.

I thought it was rad.

Perfect for the high speeds and shoulder banging of crit racing,
which I loved.

Rather than turn my head and telegraph my plans,
I could take a peek at my mirror.

Nobody else thought it was cool...

... and they made an obnoxious and clear point of it.

If my hairy legs,
questionable bike handling,
roadrashed arms and legs weren't a give away...

... the mirror, made it clear.

I was not to be trusted in the bunch.

Here's the dill.

They were right.

Because let's face it, anybody focused on the past...

... doesn't have a shot at a winning future.

--- 

167.8 lbs 
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
50


>

I DON'T ALWAYS RIDE IN THE RAIN...

I COULD SEE THE STORM BREWING.  Like a crazy fool, I rolled out anyway even though I was certain to...

... get caught in the rain.

Trust me, I am a fair weather rider.

Gimme 70 degrees,
and a lite breeze.

So why ride?

Two reasons.

One embarrassing.
One legit...

  • Poorly executed work day
  • It rains on raceday
  • Commitment

Yeah, I had all this work scheduled and a timeline to follow....

... and, well, ya know, things didn't go as planned.

That's 1.

Since it does rain on raceday, and I've never let that stop me from lining up...

... it's good to practice from time to time.

That's 2.

And I committed to myself to get my slothful self back in shape.

That's 3, a bonus.

So which one's embarrassing?

  • crap planning
  • useless prep
  • silly commitment

Well, I dunno about you...

... but, I'm cool with

  • keeping my commitments,
  • being prepared for all conditions,
  • even when things don't go as planned.

--- 

167.4 lbs 
7ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
50

 


>

IT FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME!

I WOULD CLIMB ANY MOUNTAIN, ride across the stormy sky.  It seemed like I'd waited a lifetime, spent so much time in recovery...

... it felt like the first time!

The MTB.

Like it never did before,
like I'd opened up the door.

Finally!

What is it?

I guess it's just the rawness of nature,
bringing out the rider in me.

Dawgawn I'd missed it.

Carving turns,
wiggling up technical sections,
brushing the thistles,
hanging my lycra off the back in the steeps.

Why today?

Well, to be honest, today was a breakthrough on my vision.

The double-vision I've been dealing with was greatly diminished.

Partly time.
Partly exercises for my eyes.

One of you loyal readers,
one of us,
took the time to share with me a gift for everyone.

Tools for increasing our eyesight,
the kind we need to quickly assess the best way to rip it up off road (on road, too).

You can check the tool out here: https://www.readbetweenthelions.org.  Go to the K-12 program.

It's free.

Thanks Rick!

Makes me wonder what else we can learn from each other?

Speak up y'all!

Let's get betterfasterstronger...

... together.

Have you checked out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/rip-on-raceday-network?

(yeah, this post is a nod to Foreigner)

--- 

168.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

WHADAYA THINK OF UNDULATING TERRAIN?

WE HAVE SOME WEIRD LINGO.  Have you ever heard any body, ever, use the phrase undulating terrain?  Why would they?  When you're motor-powered...

... who cares about the terrain!

Human-powered,
totally different story.

Every bump in the road and trail counts.

The longer we're out there,
the more it counts.

Sooooooooo...

... whadaya think of undulating terrain?

Do you love it?

Or, do you prefer...

  • flat
  • downhill
  • tailwinds
  • straight up
  • headwinds

... lots choices when we roll out.

Me?

Well.

There are times when I'd give my chamois pad for a flat road with a tailwind.

Days when I feel so amazing I just wanna climb and climb and climb.

But, faced with a choice...

... give me undulating.

Ups.
Downs.
Lots a turns.

That's the ride I choose.

--- 

169.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

ACTION WINS EVERY TIME

WHY WAS IT SO MIND BLOWING?  Yesterday's Strade Bianchi race was so shocking to me.  Because, to me, all the pundits...

... missed the point.

Sure, the favorite won.

This was the inspiring part...

  • he told everybody where he'd attack in advance of the race
  • made a decisive attack 81 km from the finish
  • never looked back
  • and won

... who wouldn't want to be able to do that?

What blew my mind 
was what the talking heads missed.

This athlete,
is a racer of action.

He had a plan,
and went for it.

Could it have failed?
Most definitely.

Could he have looked foolish?
For sure.

Could he have lost the race outright?
Absolutely.

Did he?
No.

Because he took action.

You miss 100% of shots you don't take.
- Wayne Gretzky

--- 

167.2 lbs 
9 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

QUESTION: IS THIS A HIGH DEMAND SPORT?

I WAS LISTENING TO SOME GUYS ARGUE about whether or not was their religion was high demand, and it got me thinking is ours?  Are endurance sports...

... high demand?

Yes.
No.

For me, and maybe for you, too...

... its high demand.

Just consider...

  • Training
  • Fueling
  • Resting

... these are the biggies.

They are priceless,
in a sense.

Which is why the are so easy to screw up,
and so misunderstood by lookers on.

We can't put...

  • Training time
  • Good fueling choices
  • Proper sleep and recovery

... on a credit card.

We've got to demand it from ourselves...

... but, is it really demanding when we love the results?

--- 

166.2 lbs 
7 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
48


>

THE UNCORKED ZONE

 

IF YOU'RE INTO HOT RODS, then you know what uncorked means.  In simple terms, all that junk that keeps the exhaust quiet and lawful is chucked...

... giving us that ultra loud and mean sound.

We have that racing and training, too.

And, if we're smart, we only hit it every so often.

You know what I'm talking about, right?

Zone 2 is corked.

  • easy to breathe
  • talk while riding
  • and go forever.

Today was not Zone 2.
I was uncorked, a bit.

Allowing myself for the first time in 2 months to stretch the legs was amazing.

The accompanying wheezing and gasping for air…

… I don’t know if it was hot rod mean, but it was loud.

Hadn’t heard that in too long…

… ain’t gonna hear for 5 or so days.

Time to add some intensity the smart way.

Polarized.

If ya wanna solid refresher on this approach,
take a listen to this: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-fast-podcast-triathlon-ironman-cycling-coaching/id1400770015?i=1000596124366

Simply, 80-90% of our training should sound like a Tesla...

... cruising through the neighborhood.

That way we are fresh and ready to get after it like the pic above.

Let the rubber...

...  burn, baby burn.

--- 

166.9 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
56

 


>

RESULTS DON'T MEAN SHIFT

I DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU ARE ON THE JOURNEY, but I can tell ya this: whether you're just starting out, coming back from injury, at the top of your game, you're gonna fail...

... if results count.

Trust me on this.

I'm rebuilding.

My fitness is shift.
the skills, off.

I've been at the top and the bottom and there is one reason I was able to climb to max fitness and performance...

... I don't care about results.

I mean I do,
but they aren't the motivator.

Optimizing my ability,
having a blast.

Way more important.

Results are nice.

If they are everything... 

... quitting, giving up, and failure is on the horizon.

Don't let that happen.

How?

Relax.

We can't see...

... the great results in the making.

They're coming.

Guaranfreakingteed.

--- 

166.9 lbs 
8 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 
57 


>

ARE WE REALLY DOING THIS?

FOSTER GRANTS ASKED ME Are we really doing this? What kinda question is that...

... Dern straight we're doing it!

Was he hoping we weren't?

Was he doubtful we could do it?

By we, I mainly mean me.

Could you?

I mean, we're gonna have a brain damaged grampa who's been off the bike for months do it...

... can you keep up?

Finish?

What's he referring to?

Oh, just the most life changing ride in Southern California...

  • 100+ miles
  • 15,000+' of vertical gain

... some might consider it hard.

Others a challenge.

Most an adventure of a lifetime.

So, if you wanna support the old sack a lycra,
if outrageous calls to your soul...

... sign up.

It's free.
and fun.

Click here for deets and pics.

--- 

167.4 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
9 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
57 

Rip On Raceday

 


>

HOW NOT WHAT

LEARNING TO RIDE A BIKE is filled with excitement, fear, and lots of scrapes and bruises.  We press through because everyone we see on a bike...

... has a great big smile.

We want that,
the teacher wants it for us.

Finally we get it.

And, at least in my case, it stopped there.

Hall-ah-freakin-lu-yah!

What
and when
and who with

... were left up to me.

I'll be forever grateful for learning how...

... and the freedom to do it my way.

--- 

168.2 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 
56 

Rip On Raceday


>

YOU DON'T NEED AN ALARM CLOCK TO WAKE UP, YOU NEED...

ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES I HAVE with our local morning group ride is that it starts at 6:30am.  If it was out my front door...

... not that hard.

It's not.

Takes me 50ish minutes to ride to the start,
which means I'm up at 5am.

Also...

... not that hard.

However, getting to bed at 9...

... is not my standard.

I'm more of a 930-10pm guy.

Therefore, if I don't hit the hay early...

... I'm foggy, at best, the rest of day.

Plus, slower on the bike.

Oh, there's a long list of shift that results from lack of sleep.

What's an athlete to do?

Before I tell, 
you are forewarned...

... this won't make you popular.

You might lose touch with friends, 
or lose them altogether.

We all have a choice...

... live our best lives or live a lower version.

This allows to tap into our superpower...

... set you alarm clock for bedtime.

Every.
Single.
Night.

Or suffer the consequences:

  • Inhibited ability to perform
  • Decreased handling skills
  • Quicker exhaustion
  • Decreased reaction time
  • Difficulty learning and decision making
  • Increased risk of injury
  • Increased risk for illness
  • Poor recovery
  • Memory issues
  • Weight gain
  • Poor balance
  • ... Low sex drive

Like I said,
it might be socially unpopular but...

... wouldn't you rather operate at your optimum?

I would.

---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

MILEMARKERS FOR DUMMIES

ONE OF THE KEYS TO RIPPING LONG RACES is remembering where you are.  Yeah, you're racing.  Yeah, you're clicking off the miles.  But...

... where the heck are you?

And, there's more than that.

  • Are you on track?
  • When is the next stop?
  • Does your support know when to expect you?

So, I always write down on a piece of tape with a sharpie my goals to be at certain locations at certain times...

... and stick it on my top tube.

This keeps all of us coordinate.

More importantly,
it keeps me focused.

The long races, 6+ hours, can be grueling.
They can wear us down to the point...

... of forgetting why we even signed up in the first place.

Looking down at the humble piece of tape,
seeing my goals...

  • engages my mind
  • re-centers my effort
  • keeps me on the pace

... snaps me back to the present moment.

I don't just use this practice for racing...

... I write down everything I plan to do,
and when I plan to have it done.

---

166.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No strength work
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

IS IT HABIT OR RITUAL?

THE SATURDAY MORNING RIDE.  We work all week, and with a little planning and luck we carve out some time to ride.  In the beginning...

... it takes some discipline.

Not the riding.

The commitment.

We are working to establish a habit.
For the most part, a good one.

But, that changes over time.

It becomes a ritual.

  • A set time to leave
  • An expected amount of time to be gone
  • The proper dress code observed
  • A dedicated place to meet
  • A consistent slaying of trails, gravel, pavement
  • A flogging of the sinners who are not as fit as they shouldcould be.

Yep, this is our ritual.
Our practice.
Our faith.

We made the jump.

We are far beyond
discipline and habit.

---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
12-0 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

WHAT DOES AI SAY ABOUT TRAINING METHODS USED 100 YEARS AGO?

I PINGED CHAT GTP AND SEVERAL OTHER AI regarding training methods of Belgians 100 years ago.  Why not?  A lot of knowledge is refined, regurgitated or plain ol' forgotten...

... maybe there's something to be rediscovered?

Oddly?
or, maybe not.

The answers across the AI were eerily similar.

I say eerily because who wants to live in a silo?

Anyway, 
here's the bottom line:

It’s important to note that these training methods were not as scientific or structured as they are today. Cyclists often relied on their own experience and intuition to guide their training. However, despite the lack of modern technology and scientific understanding, many Belgian cyclists were able to achieve impressive results using these methods.

Shocking!
I mean, shocking?

When it comes right down to it, is there anything better than...

... relying on our own experience and intuition to guide our training?

I don't think so.

Not when were really into it,
when we really know our bodies.

Me, for instance, I'm rebuilding my fitness.

I realized what a distraction it is to look at the data pouring across my little Wahoo screen.

  • Maybe I should put out more power?
  • Gosh, my heart rate is ____!
  • I've only gone X miles?

So, I fire up the Wahoo,
put it in my jersey pocket.

Time to ride on just experience and intuition...

... same thing I do when racing.

---

166.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

THE MOST HUMBLING RACE OF MY LFE

MY PAL PETE AND I DECIDED WE WERE REALLY FIT and that we could do anything with just a hint of training.  Racing bikes was kina ho-hum...

... so we signed up for a 10k running race.

We were so arrogant,
we rode our bikes 15 miles to the start.

We lined up in the back, 
because, you know, we were going to
squash these runners.

Gun goes off.

We quickly move forward.

Up to the top 50-100.

Really running.
Hard.

Suddenly, I notice I'm breathing way too loud.

Uh-oh.

My legs hurt,
my hips hurt,
everything hurts.

And, I'm moving backwards quickly.

Chubby guy cruises by.

Oldish lady...

... did she elbow me out of the way?

Kids are skipping and laughing and disappearing up the road.

But, it was the guy in flip flops who said...

... Hang in there, only 3 more miles...

... that really did me in.

Here's the dill.

On the outside, at the start,
looking at these racers,
I would have bet $10,000 on me and Pete.

Looking at competitors is a poor way to pass judgement...

... it's the inside, the heart, that counts.

 ---

166.2 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I KNOW YOU'RE NOT A LOSER LIKE THIS CAT

I was going to post this and then I went for a ride and decided it was too mean, whadaya think?... 

THERE ARE THREE MAIN THINGS LOSERS DO.  I say losers, in this case, meaning they are literally losing out.  If they persist, then, yeah...

... the other kind.

It always surprises me when people make these very basic mistakes.

Even if they are new, 
I find it,
perplexing.

I think you do, too.

Because, for us,
it's just second nature.

Probably because we have learned the hard way.

Not only that, we try and pass this basic knowledge along to every new rider we can.

Still, they...

  • Forget gear when going to a ride or race
  • Completely foul up their nutrition and bonk
  • Neglect the bike prep only to have mechanical difficulty

... and, we shake our heads.

They are losing out on a more excellent ride.

We deal with it,
they are our friends.

However, if it persists one of two things is gonna happen...

  • We don't invite them any more
  • We leave them behind

... because, well, you know they are....

How's that for setting up a shameless plug on why we do what we do?

  • The RaceDay Bag™ has a built in checklist to make sure we bring everything
  • It comes with a RaceDay Bike Check List, too, so bike is properly prepped
  • And an insane Never Forget Anything guarantee.

... that way my friends are always invited,
and never left behind.

 ---

166.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

I USED TO LOVE RAINY DAYS

THERE WAS A TIME WHEN RAINY DAYS were awesome.  Mostly, around here, it meant nobody was riding.  Not me, not anybody else.  Which was perfect...

... if I couldn't ride anyway.

You see the selfishness right?

If I can't ride,
I'm stoked you can't either.

It means nobody is getting in the secret miles.

But, that's hardly true these days.

It's not the trainers,
those have been around forever.

It's the virtual racing,
that is a game changer.

In fact, I know plenty of people who do a fair amount of their riding virtually.

  • It's available 24-7
  • Not hampered by weather
  • All the social connections of a group ride (with right equipment).

Can you blame them?

I can't.

But, I still blame the weather for my own lack of getting it done.

 ---

166.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

CODDLED VS THROTTLED?

YEAH, THE RECOVER IS GOING PRETTY GOOD.  Spoke to my neuroscientist pal, who confirmed my suspicions.  It's good news for me...

... is it good news for you?

Well, yeah, if you taking the Rip On RaceDay 30-Day Challenge.

If you're not, then sit up and pay attention.

Here's what he said.

You're probably doing so well because...

  • you're exercising every day
  • not eating bread
  • staying away from grains
  • not drinking diet drinks or artificial sweeteners
  • eating plenty of veggies and protein
  • getting outside in the sunshine
  • lifting weights
  • getting plenty of sleep, 9-10 or more hours

... right?

I sheepishly said Yes.

Which was mostly true.

But, I gotta cut out all grains and all bread, even my beloved chips and salsa and special sour dough bread.  I've backslid on the diet drinks, those gotta go.  Other than that, I'm mostly on track.

Main thing I need to add is a lot more fish oil.  
Not a problem, I love sardines.

in other words, it's time to practice ALL that I preach.

So, how're you doing?  Yes, you my loyal reader.  How. Are. You. Doing?

Could you tighten things up a bit?

Or, do you need a serious crack in the head like I got to up your game?

Which brings me back to the title of this post, Coddled vs. Throttled?

Here's the dill, for me...

... I prefer to be throttled.

Put me on a ridiculously difficult course, in with the heavy hitters, tell me the honesttogosh truth...

... make me suffer!

Then, and only then, I might merit some coddling.

Maybe it's time for a serious challenge...

... and little coddling 30 days later?

Rip On RaceDay 30-Day Challenge

 ---

165.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUPs, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I WONDER IF GIRLS DO THIS?

FOR THE MOST PART, we are a healthy lot.  We skip cigars, pass up the bars.  Well, then, where's a cyclist to go to share our struggles, solve our problems...

... shoot the shift?

Dudes,
we ride together...

... and we share, solve and shoot.

That's where we get it done.

What about the lady riders?

Where are they bonding and supporting?

There are so few of them, 
mostly they ride with guys...

... don't think I've ever see an all, or mostly, female group ride.

Is that why so few ladies ride, compared to men?

Are they missing what the guys are getting?

Is that the main reason guys ride?

 ---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

Are You Ready For A Hero's Journey?

I DID A POLE OF THE RACEDAY RIPPERS.  I asked them If they had to pick just one bike what would it be?  They had 4 options to pick from.  What would you answer be...

... you need the options first.

Here they are:

  • Road
  • MTB
  • Gravel
  • One of Each (acceptable though hard to explain to family and friends)

It came down to a tie between two options, evenly split.

33% for each.

Gravel and One of Each.

Why?

Well, what would your choice be?

Back to Why?

I think it comes down the basic human nature...

... we want to go on a journey.

Not just any journey.

One where we are heroic,
in our own minds at least.

That, I think, is the true appeal of "gravel" (such a dumb name)...

... the appeal of a bike that can handle mixed surfaces.

On that type of bike we have incredible freedom combined with the high likelihood of finding ourselves...

... in place far, far away from our predictable existence.

With luck we'll...

  • Shed some blood without breaking bones.
  • Find out we can do much more than we thought.
  • Gain new confidence, skill, and special experience.

... acquire our own superpowers.

Is it any wonder these bikes and events with mixed surfaces are exploding?

 ---

164.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
90 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

WHAT TO ASK A PROSPECTIVE COACH

THINKING OF GETTING A COACH?  Good.  You can get better faster by learning from an expert.  Be it a book, a video, a podcast.  Only a human can...

... answer this question.

The answer will instantly tell you if this relationship is gonna work out.

After small talk, after the coach's spiel, when the conversation stalls...

... ask this:

If we were meeting 3 years from now, looking back, what has to happen for you to be happy with my progress?

Trust me, conversation is gonna stay stalled.

Don't say a thing.

Wait for the answer.

Listen to what is said.

Ask yourself...

... Is this the kind of person I want to have a relationship with?

That's it.

I've used the question many times over the years, usually when hiring somebody.  There are lots of variations.

It works.

Learned it from the great Dan Sullivan.

---

162.6 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
150 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

How To Build Volume 101

IMAGINE YOU'RE STARTING FROM ZERO.  How do you build volume? Are there rules of thumb?  When do you introduce intensity?  Does it matter?...

... can you wing it?

Good questions.

Short answers:

  • Build volume as fast as you can, which isn't going to be very fast if you are starting from zero.
  • There are no rules of thumb, it's ruled by legs and lungs.  Do what you can.
  • Introduce intensity as soon as you want, it ain't going to be much.
  • Yes, it matters.

Long answer.

There are a number of good books on the subject.  Anything by Joe Friel will give you a good plan.  

You don't need a power meter, mainly because you're will not be putting out much power early on.  

But, you do need a heart rate monitor.

In the beginning of the first rides, the heart rate monitor will be exciting.  Then after a few miles, it will dim.  Reality will set in as that heart rate gets lower and lower because you have no stamina built up.  After a few weeks or months, the HR monitor will serve as a governor...

... holding you back.

This is good.

Because if you're tired, you can't do intensity properly.

Introduce the intensity one day per week.  

Don't look at the HR monitor too much, instead get after it.  Could be a group ride you want to desperately hang on to, a Zwift session with same obsession, or simply chasing that mystical PR you want to breatk.

Check the HR data when the ride is over.

Important answer:

  • Pick an event far in the future - you need time.
  • Set an insane goal.
  • Get registered.

Nothing exceptional will come with your training without a date with destiny...

... that's paid for!

---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

Do I Really Love It This Much?

SO, IT'S GONNA WIND UP BEING 8 WEEKS OFF THE BIKE since the noggin took a hit.  If I do the ol' traditional math, that's 8 X 3 (weeks to get back the fitness for every 1 week off the bike)...

... 24 weeks, errrr 6 months?

That's hella long time.

The big question is...

... do I love it that much?

And by it, I do not mean the obvious...

... riding my bike.

I mean being in shape and the...

... feeling of being fast.

If I'm being honest, and I always am with you...

... I've forgotten what that feels like.

Surfgirl said Let's go on a ride today...

... and I jumped at the chance to ride with her support.

How'd it go?

Well, even though I was on my MTB...

... I still easily dropped her.

Nothing new there.

What was new was how hard I had to work to catch her,
huffing and puffing and legs burning...

... at a pace I recall doing for hours, endlessly.

This time it was for about 2 minutes.

Was I surprised?
Disappointed?

Let's just say I laughed out loud when I saw what Training Peaks was showing for my fitness.

37.

Yep, nearly 100 points lower than my all time max fitness just 18 months ago.

Lesson:  fitness disappears, fast.

Lesson:  I'm gonna bring it back, patiently (not my superpower, but a lesson to learn).

Who's in?

---

164.8lbs
9ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
60 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

TOP REASONS NOT TO LIFT WEIGHTS

THERE IS A LOT OF BANTER about weight training.  We should do it in the off-season, shy away from in the race season.  Frankly...

... I couldn't disagree more.

Weight training is for those who want:

  • stronger bones
  • to build muscle
  • put out more power
  • improved core strength
  • better grip strength

Who want's that?

Year round?

Oh,
well,
me.

You?

Top 3 exercises we should all be doing?

Takes just a few minutes to do a set.

Very little equipment needed: pull up bar, some dumbbells...

... or skip the minor investment.

  • have weak bones
  • look like a T-Rex
  • less power
  • weaker core
  • pathetic grip

It's your body...

... and I'm just a dude, not a doctor!

 ---

164.8lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull Ups Pushups Squats Presses
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

CONFIDENCE, WHO'S RESPONSIBILITY IS IT ANYWAY?

IN GETTING CAUGHT UP WITH THE LATEST BREAKING CYCLNG NEWS, I saw an article title and it's bugged me ever since.  Maybe I'm heartless, from a different generation...

... or maybe this guy is just weak.

The title of the article is, They Lost Faith In Me.

Honestly, I can't believe I even bothered to read it.

But, after a week of it percolating as a top article...

... it got me like a slow moving train wreck.

As expected, featured racer blamed his lack of success on the team losing faith in him.

Bro, it's not the team's job to have faith in you.
They are paying you.
Faith is there.

That's my first reaction.

Bro, them's fighting words.
Now go prove 'em wrong.
Create the failth.

Earn it.

That's my second reaction.

What happened to good ol'...

... if it's to be, it's up to me!?

Or... 

... fake it, 'till ya make it!?

In the end, I couldn't decide if I should feel sorry for a grown man having such a pathetic excuse...

... or be ticked off that such lameness made the front page.

Bottom line,
like it or not...

... it's our responsibility to be confident,
and to infect all those around us with such assuredness.

Life,
racing,
everything...

... is more fun, and, oh, ah, successful!

 ---

162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

WHAT HAPPENS IN SIN CITY...

THERE ARE SINS, and then there are things we personally consider sins.  Either way, 'Vegas promise that what happens in 'Vegas stays in 'Vegas...

... is a big fat lie.

Not a big deal.

We are only letting ourselves,
and those we committed to...

... down.

For example, the second Friday in January is known as Quitter's Day because by then...

... most people have thrown in the towel on their resolutions.

Like I said, 
not a big deal...

... unless you want to
improve,
make changes,
stay true to what matters.

If that's on the line,
we can't afford to sin,
and if we do we've got to...

... repent right away, 
and keep moving forward.

So,
how are those resolutions doing?

I had two:

  • Get to bed around 9,
    start day before 6.
  • Get back to race weight,
    under 163.

The only reason I'm mostly on track is due to putting myself in the hospital on Jan 8th...

  • appetite disappeared
  • needed a lot more sleep

... otherwise, I'd be struggling.

Which is better than quitting.
A lot better.

Struggling,
good.
Repenting,
good.
Never quitting,
Best.

Keep up the good fight.

 ---

162.7 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

THE RACERS CREED

WHETHER WE KNOW IT OR NOT, we stand for a few things.  And, it matters.  Because this is...

... how we roll.

The Racer's Creed

  • Access to bicycles - and anything that makes you stronger and better - should be unlimited.
  • Always yield to the In Real Life Imperative.
  • All racing should be free.
  • Mistrust tradition, government recommendations - promote bro-science.
  • Racers should be judged by their racing, not by bogus criteria like KOMs, USAC Category, age, color or gender.
  • You can be free and forever young on a bicycle.
  • Bicycles change your life for the better.

Agree or Disagree?
Lemmeknow.

 ---

165.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups, presses, squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

IT AIN'T EVERY DAY YOU CAN LOOK FORWARD TO THIS

DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN YOU FIRST STARTED RIDING?  For most of us, it was a magical time.  Each ride a little further, a little faster.  Each effort...

... a little easier.

No wonder we got hooked.

Still, 
some wonder off.

Is it because the day comes when going further, faster, with less effort is no longer predictable?

Shoot, forget predictable...

... sometimes those days have months between them.

Even years.

I can tell you this, as I impatiently wait for clearance to get back on my bike and start riding again...

... knowing I'll get better every ride keeps me hanging on.

Can you relate?

 ---

164.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups, presses, squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 

 


>

IT'S SO MIXED UP

ROAD BIKES use road tires.  Most of us find a favorite, and that's what we run day, night, rain, shine.  For MTB, it's basically the same formula.  Find a tire we like, run it regardless.  For gravel...

... ugh.

First off, gravel ain't just gravel.

It's gravel and asphalt and single track and rocky terrain.

So, a gravel tire needs to be fast on asphalt, tacky on gravel turns, nimble on techy stuff and rugged on the rockies.

What's the ol' saying?

There's fast, cheap and quality...

... you can only pick two.

But, we're racing.

We want fast, light and rugged...

... and we want all three.

Not gonna happen.

Me?

I'll take fast and light, banking on my handling skills to get me safely through the rugged stuff.

Is that enough?

Probably not.

If it really matters, 
gotta pre-run the course,
then pick the very best option...

... not easy,
but, that's what make it fun. 

 ---

164.9 lbs
9ish hrs sleep
Pull ups, push ups & squats
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>

I TRIPLE THAT EMOTION

ON THE START LINE there is always a lot of emotion.  Some are scared, some are anxious, some are seething, some are just happy to be there.  And...

... it's all good.

Well, kinda.

Facts are facts.

The more emotion we have the more productive we will be.

There's just one problem.

It might not be positive productivity.

Personally, I prefer to make up some story in my head regarding an innocent competitor...

... that ticks me off.

Take that manufactured angst,
turn it up all the way to 11...

... and let emotion do it's thing.

It is nearly a lock that I will race better,
be more and better calculating...

... and not give a hoot about what others think.

So, yeah...

... I triple that emotion.

 ---

163.9 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work.
10 minutes recovery 
120 minutes reading + Journaling 


>
CRACKING THE CODE

CRACKING THE CODE

Apr 23, 2019 TODD BROWN

I'M NOT SURE HOW MANY TIMES I'VE WATCHED ROBERT LANGDON CRACK THE DA VINCI CODE, but I do know this:  last night when I started to watch it I realized how much more we see and hear the 2nd and 3rd and 4th... times through.  It's true of anything, really.

The more we race, the more we see opportunities and hear weaknesses.

The more we train, the more we learn about ourselves.

Do more.
See more.
Hear more.

More really is better.

 _____

164.4

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FREE CHEYNE PARROTT

FREE CHEYNE PARROTT

Apr 22, 2019 TODD BROWN

I GET THE IDEA BEHIND CAT 5:  Make people do 10 races with other novices before they move up.  But... in some cases it's just plain silly.

Take my buddy Cheyne.

He has won nearly every single race he's entered, including overall at last year's unOFFICIAL TMWC.  Most of the time he's riding alone off the front.  Saturday he went off the front, got a mechanical, chased back on and back off the front for an easy solo victory. 

So much for the let him learn how to ride in a pack first idea.  It's not much fun for him nor the rest of the 5s.

Surely there must be a better way?  Do we have a thoughtful official witnessing these guys and gals that can take a look and say Yeah, you're ready, move on up?

I can see where there could be gray areas that officials want to avoid.  I don't know what the bar would be, but winning every race you enter by a lot can't be too hard to distinguish.

Racers like Cheyne have often been riding in a group for a couple of years anyway and someone finally got them to do a "real race".  

Let's get them on their way to bigger challenges.

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OUR POSSE CRUSHED THE DAY.

OUR POSSE CRUSHED THE DAY.

Apr 20, 2019 TODD BROWN

THE TMWC RIDERS PEPPERED THE PODIUMS TODAY.  Cheynne won.  Emilio won.  Charlie finished 2nd, so did I.  Paul and Mike snagged a 4th.  Kevin, George and Lori climbed to 5th place finishes.  And, those are the ones I know of.

I’m so happy for our crew.  I know how hard everybody works.  We ride for various teams, but we all cheer each other on because we see the work that’s put in week after week.

Personally, I put a demon to bed today.  The past four attempts have finished with the pedal of shame… head hanging low, eyes down, body destroyed.  This year was the finishing touches of a dedicated effort… mainly losing the weight and committing to my strength and core regimen.

Yes, it is worth it.  It’s worth it to know what you’re capable of.

My Garmin said I hit 192 bpm on the final climb, something I haven’t seen for years. 

When I looked down and saw I was in zone 6 (didn’t even know that was possible) I had just passed Emilio with about a mile to go.  I didn’t want to go around him, but once the old diesel is revving I gotta keep chugging.  He countered me and Fenton was closing fast.  I had to make a choice, chase Emilio and risk blowing up or let Greg catch and bank on out sprinting him.  Now, rested I see it differently… but I shouldn’t.  Greg came through and he could see Mike Frias was starting to close on us.  He wanted me to help so we could stay away, but again I was sure my sprint would take me home to 2nd

It was no time to get greedy chasing Emilio.  I had finally made the last climb with the leaders vs off the back.  It was time to secure the podium. 

I’m so grateful for my health, the ability to have a great bike, and so many friends inspiring each other to search for the best.

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12 WEEKS UNTIL THE unOFFICIAL TMWC - 7/9/19

12 WEEKS UNTIL THE unOFFICIAL TMWC - 7/9/19

Apr 16, 2019 TODD BROWN

I HAVE ONE QUESTION FOR YOU… are you going to PR the course or a segment of this year’s unOFFICIAL TMWC?

Are you going to take the next 12 weeks to plan out your assault?

Who’s wheel(s) will you be on?

How much will you weigh?

But the real question is, Will you be within 6 degrees of separation of the winners?

This year is invite only.

  1. You’ll get an invite from a friend with their Order Number.
  2. You will register and enter their Order Number.
  3. You’ll get a confirmation email with your Order Number.
  4. You can then invite up to 6 people and have them enter your Order Number.

We’ll have all the usual categories and trophies…

PLUS, if you are within 6 degrees of separation from the Men’s or Women’s Overall Winner or the unOFFICIAL Lottery Winner (or all 3), then you’ll be splitting the cash and/or prizes with them.

You're automatically entered in the lottery when you sign up.

You’ll also get:  chip timing, a sweet t-shirt and fed some yumminess.

Will you be within 6 degrees of separation?

There are only 110 slots available.

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THAT FINE LINE

THAT FINE LINE

Apr 13, 2019 TODD BROWN

I'M RIDING THAT FINE LINE.  Prepping for the last road race of the year and looking further out to the endurance MTB races.  They are nothing in the course of life, but they aren't nothing.

They are goals that keep me motivated.  They demand me to remember I'm an athlete.  Only my best will do.

The road race, San Luis Rey, is a tough code to crack. 

The old course was much better for me because after the hideous climb was a harrowing descent which allowed me to catch back on and recover for the fast, slight downhill finish.

The new course, so far, has had my number.  I have yet to cross the line with leaders.  Each year I have cracked.  Exploded.  Detonated.  Evaporated... limping shamefully to the finish while my pals are celebrating and smiling.  This year may be the same.  

The final climb is just a tad too long, a touch too steep, a lot too fast for T.O.D.

But, TBH, this is the finest I've been in the last 4 years of attempts.  5 or 6 pounds lighter, on a bike I love.  Today's final hard ride felt just dandy.  I almost let myself dream of a fast finish... 

... but, I couldn't.  Didn't dare.  Too risky.  Might let my guard down...

So, rather than call it quits after smoking a 54 minute segment I opted for the long way home.  

Maybe too long.

But, that's the fine line.

The longer route let me settle in and ride the pace I'll be needing at Whisky 50, Marathon Nats, Tahoe 100... which will all lead up to Leadville.

Did I need to do it?

Not even.

I just wanted to.

I felt good.

Kept my effort in check and enjoyed the prettiest day of the year.

It's a fine line that over training.  But, if it feels good it's probs okay.

 _____

164.4

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ARE YOU RIDING LIKE THIS?

ARE YOU RIDING LIKE THIS?

Apr 12, 2019 TODD BROWN

I'M AT HIDDEN HOUSE COFFEE. San Juan Capistrano.  CA.  I live nearby.  Sometimes I wonder if I'm really living.  Is it living if I have anxt bubbling just below my bubbly exterior?

I'm not sure.

I am sure this is a new Friday tradition.

Get up.
Review my goals.
Ride over here.
Reflect.

Listen to the doves.  Watch the people.  Feel the air.

Today is an exceptional day.  Sunny and 60s.

There are others here.
Some writing.
Others reading.
Some locals.
Many passing through.

Maybe I'll come every Friday at 8.  Just to see who's who.

Maybe this is the start of a new path?  It so hard to change directions.  Life's inertia is strong.  More years make it like cement.  Drying.  Curing into place.

This place.

This hidden coffee house could serve as a starting point for a new adventure.  A change of environment.  Not greener pastures.  Different pastures.  Who knows what might be hidden here?  In this little slice of town.  I might write a new story for TWB.

Maybe I should spend this sacred time listing the wonderful things that happened this week?  The things I'm grateful for?  That's the popular thing to do.

So I won't.
I'll write.

See what surfaces.  Mull it over.  Swill it around.  Enjoy my thoughts.

Thoughts.
Surroundings.
Me.
Silence.

Who am I not to glory in the morning sun's rays?
Lighting the table.
Warming the trees.
Blooming our minds.

I will not miss another ride like this.
Toss the phone, the digital world.
Go analog, remain physical.

... time to pedal. 
Never settle.

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WANTED

WANTED

Apr 11, 2019 TODD BROWN

WE NEED A GRAPHIC DESIGNER.  
If you are...
Ambitious.
Creative.
Inspiring.
Optimistic.
Fun to be around.
... and good with Illustrator.

 

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SHARING

SHARING

Apr 10, 2019 Buddha Apps Collaborator

EVERY MONTH OR SO I GET A MESSAGE FROM A FRIEND.  Sometimes, after a scary health issue... sometimes to avoid one.

I wish I got them every week.
That all my pals were as healthy as possible.
So, here's to sharing on the interwebs all the rides we do and plan to do!  

Maybe we'll get even more peeps joining
In the fun. 
On bikes.
Smiling
Today.

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MORE THAN BIKES

MORE THAN BIKES

Apr 09, 2019 TODD BROWN

THE TEAM HAD SOME GREAT WINS OVER THE WEEKEND... and it wasn't just bikes.

Jasmine crushed the Oceanside Half-Ironman, and qualified for the World Championships in France.  It had been years since she'd suited up for real.

Steven won first place with his insane car and will be one of the featured Young Builders at SEMA this year in Las Vegas.

These two are two of my favorite reasons to come to work.  Every day they bring their best.  It shows here at PEDAL Industries and in everything they do.

_____

165

20/60
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PLANNING FOR THE BEST AND THE WORST.

PLANNING FOR THE BEST AND THE WORST.

Apr 04, 2019 TODD BROWN

IT'S NOT ENOUGH TO PLAN FOR THE BEST PART OF A RACE.  I plan for the bad parts too.  It's easy to plan for the fun single track or the wide fast finishing straight.  Planning for the worst is critical to success.

For Leadville, I know I'm going to be pushing my bike on foot uphill for about a mile.  Starting right now, I've got to get my shoes sorted out and I've got to start pushing my bike up steep sections.  Being able to ride steep terrain when I'm fresh, at sea level, is totally different than 47 miles (the first push) and 80 (the second push) into a 104 mile event at 12,500'.

Ignoring those realities, failing to prep for them, is spirit crushing.  Nobody wants that.  

What else can go wrong?

The weather.  At 12,000' anything can happen... even in August:  rain, hail, snow, freezing temps... I've seen 'em all.

Flat tires.  Tire technology has evolved to incredible reliability.  But, people get flats.  And, because they are so rare most of us are terrible at quick repairs.  I'm going to start using and testing plugs as my first defense... to make sure I can do it quickly.

Nutrition.  Just as important as figuring out what will work on race day is knowing where your nutrition is going to be.  Often that means going over in detail how the support crew is going to get from place to place, where they'll be, what they'll wear... how the heck you'll find them and they'll see you.

Other mechanical problems.  Number one, get the entire bike run through by the best mechanic possible... weeks before the event.  Two, get proficient at the basics.

Clothing.  The clothing has got to be tested months prior and new clothing ideally ready to go 2 weeks out... in other words, not worn out pads and shabby fitting.  Be prepared to layer it.  At Leadville I typically roll with arm warmers and a vest and a beanie... possibly more.  Bring it all.

The unforeseen.  It's out there, it's coming for us.  Be prepared to react calmy and not freak out.  5 years ago, my last and 5th time, my chain jammed in between the small cog and the frame.  1000's of us were a whole 3 miles into the race and speeding downhill on pavement.  My hard fought starting position was being erased.   It was so tempting to first pedal harder and permanently jam it in there or ruin the chain.  It was tempting to whine and moan as hundreds sailed on by me.  I pulled over, slammed on the brakes, quickly freed it up and got after it.

All the prep for the worst makes the best so much better... 
the summiting and plummeting!

(that pic above is my Surfergirl given me the handup at Leadville 2014)

_____

163.

20/60
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20/60

20/60

Apr 01, 2019 TODD BROWN

 

TWO DAYS AFTER BEING RUN INTO THE FINISHING BARRIER AT SAN DIMAS, going 25mph, the deep bruising is starting to surface on the arm that took the punishment.

It could have been a lot worse.

Dude, came over on me and closed the door even though he knew I was there.  It happened so fast, that it went to slow motion... that kinda thing.  I leaned my tires away from the base, twisted my torso and clipped the top of first barrier hard bouncing into him and back towards the barriers.

Clang!

Packthink moved our galloping herd back to the center of the wide road.

I bit my tongue, which is pretty easy when you sponsor yourself.

Couple a guys praised my skills.
Another chewed the lugheaded rider out.

We rode on.

At the bottom of my posts is something like this:   20/60.  It started out as 10/30, but then that became easy.

So, now it's 20/60.

20 pull ups.
60 push ups.
EVERY DAY.

...I was damn glad I've been doing pull ups and push ups, figure that alone saved me.

_____

163.4

20/60

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LET'S GET AMNESIA

LET'S GET AMNESIA

Mar 30, 2019 TODD BROWN

WHEN I GOT  CARELESSLY/PURPOSELY RUN INTO THE FINISHING BARRIER GOING 28 MILES AN HOUR TODAY... 

When my calves were cramping so I stood up only to have my quads cramp so I sat down only to have my hamstrings cramp...

When I rode the last lap alone...

Woulda been so easy to retaliate, quit, sulk.

But, it's just a lot better to forget about it. 
'made my afternoon hanging with the fellas a lot more fun.
'and the surprise birthday dinner with some a the kids much more enjoyable.

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A DESTINATION

A DESTINATION

Mar 26, 2019 TODD BROWN

TWO WEEKS IN A ROW, and two outta town visitors spent the night and joined the craziness.

Our kinda craycray.

Up at 5am.

Out the door at 538.

Lights on.  Bottles loaded.  Into the dark and cold.

Why?

Because how else are we going to find the time required to be fast?  Where else are we going to link up with riders of such high caliber?  What else would we rather do?

Stay in our cozy beds?
Heck no.

Get our beauty sleep?
Negative.

It's not for everybody.
It's for us.

Who else would plan such a destination vacation?

_____

164

20/60

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LEADVILLE OR BUST

LEADVILLE OR BUST

Mar 24, 2019 TODD BROWN

IT WASN’T MUCH OF A START.  In fact, I missed the start altogether.  At least, the trail was clear.  Soon, I started passing people.

I could see my buddies way ahead of me.

Then I couldn’t.

I’d taken a wrong turn.  Ugh.

The first of 7 laps, and I’d already given up 5 minutes.

But I started to settle in… to find my endurance pace.  And that was the point:  to see if I had the kind of endurance I once did… the endurance I’d need to qualify for Leadville, and then set a PR there.

As of today, I have 16 weeks to prep for the Tahoe 100... where I plan to qualify for Leadville... and 4 weeks later it'll be on f'reals.

What did I learn from today?

  1. My MTB handling skills are rusteeeeee. I was on the brakes too much, fighting the bike too much.  Good news is my upper body is actually pretty strong from all the push ups and pull ups.
  2. I have the endurance, but my speed needs some work. I kept my heart-rate at a steady 160ish bpm.  Never cramped.  More speed will come with dropping a few pounds, and riding off road a lot more.  My food strategy of 2 scoops of GQ6 and dried figs to snack on was perfect.
  3. Black Magic, my hardtail, needs to move out to make room for a full-suspension XC racer. My back was KILLING me when I was done.  Could be partly the 175mm cranks vs the 172.5s on my road and gravel bikes, but I think it was mainly due to the pounding.

How’d I wind up today?  Pretty dang great... passing almost everybody and winning my age group.  That was nice, but I was more impressed with my steady lap times which were all around 28 minutes.

Oh, and remember the 7 laps?… well, I did do 7 but my age group only did 6.  So, I guess there’s a 4th thing I learned:

  1. Be prepared. Ready to start on time.  Know the course.

Here we go!

_____

Got a chance to meet the Stonehaus crew in person and deliver the team's RaceDay bags. 

Specialized raffled off a sweet hardtail for the Juniors

I don't know the answer... but it would be great to do the podiums right when the race ends for everybody to be there.

This tri-tip was amazing!

... after the grillin' it was great to be chillin'... what a spectacular day!

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THE PLANK OF BIKE RIDES

THE PLANK OF BIKE RIDES

Mar 16, 2019 TODD BROWN

TODAY'S RIDE WAS A LOT LIKE PLANKING.  It didn't start out that way.  I thought I'd be home early with the rest of the crew.  But, it was the first warm day in months and I had no need to get back.

Plus, when I thought of my boys hiking 24 miles up to the top of Saddleback and back today...  I knew I had to go big.

So, after slaying the Saturday Hour of Power with my local posse I headed on up to catch CV (another fast group ride).  There's nothing better than surfing from group ride to group ride and seeing all my pals.  

Sooner than I'd have liked I was popped and knew it was time to start the long journey home.

The miles clicked by.  Did a mental calculation that it'd be my usual 85sh.  Thought, why not push on through to a 100.

That last 15... sheesh... it was like planking and watching the clock. 

I've built my planking up to 3 minutes this year, but the only way I can do it is to turn on a movie and set an alarm for 3 minutes and try and forget about it.  When I started planking, I'd watch the timer... I'd be all shaky and quivery and quit after about 30 seconds.

There I was, one mile from home and 15 miles to go.  What to do?

First, I was bonking as I hadn't planned to ride more than 50 today, and I hit Surfin' Donuts.  3 miles done.

Second, rode the scenic route back towards home.  9 miles done.

Third, did meaningless laps through the local church parking lots and neighborhoods.

Those miles slowly clicked over.

Garmin and Training Peaks affirmed the effort.  Strava says I need more.

I don't.

 

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FIRST MARKET RIDE OF THE YEAR

Mar 12, 2019 TODD BROWN

ONE OF THE FEW THINGS I LIKE ABOUT DAYLIGHT SAVINGS is that we take a little break from some rides which go dormant with the dark afternoons.  Around here, where it's summer 90% of the time it's good to change up the monotony.

But, the break is over and tonight was the first ride of the year for The Market Ride.

The Market Ride has a long, long history of going very, very hard every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon during Daylight savings time.

It was great to see a lot a crew I hadn't seen for 5 months.

One of the guys fell off his bike, which sucked... and I'm/we're all hoping he's okay.  After a few minutes of bone-checking an unprofessional assessment most of us got back at it.

Spring is coming!

_____

162.8

10/30

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OTDITM!

OTDITM!

Mar 11, 2019 TODD BROWN

WONDERING HOW YOU'RE GONNA FIT THE NEXT RIDE IN?

Try this:  OTDITM

You know what time you need to be on life's clock, so work backwards and set your clock.

I knew I needed to be strapped to my desk at 8am today.  I reversed out my short commute, breakfast, shower, reading, ride and settled on 6am.

Then, I practiced the art of OTDIT (Out The Door In Ten Minutes).  To do it, I had to do some prepping. 

Before bed:

Bike was ready, next to the front door; same for the helmet, shoes and glasses.

Clothes were laid out in the bathroom.

Bottle was in the cage.

I used to do this all the time, but I've gotten soft and lazy.  It was a convo with my son last night that reminded me of how I did it all when the kids were still around.  When time with them was so precious.

At 610 I was riding.  Went through the elementary school, over the bridge, not a soul around at the start... like zombies they slowly joined the rising sun.

But, by then, I was done.

Nailed it.

Gonna keep on nailing.

_____

164.8
10/30
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WHAT A DIFFERENCE FRESH MAKES

WHAT A DIFFERENCE FRESH MAKES

Mar 09, 2019 TODD BROWN

3 10 MINUTE CLIMBS, 3 PRs... SHOULD I BE SURPRISED?  Maybe, but I was hoping for results like that.

Why?

Because normally I hit these climbs after doing a lot more work before I get there.  

Alta Vista is typically on the menu after scorching Food Park.

Newport Coast we usually hit after an hour of pretty decent tempo, and then we go another 7ish minutes to the top... but, today's assignment was 10 minute climbs.

And PID... we'll I don't think I've ever hit with less than 50 miles and poop load of Zone 5 in my legs.

Being fresh for those climbs made a huge difference today.  But, it wasn't just the easy riding between each effort.  Training Peaks had my Form at 8 - not the highest, but certainly indicating a good results were possible.

Do I want to go back and do it again?

Heck no.

Bring on new challenges!

_____

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KNOWN BEST FOR

KNOWN BEST FOR

Mar 08, 2019 TODD BROWN

THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MOVIE OF MY TEENAGE YEARS WAS BIG WEDNESDAY.  Released in '78, the same summer I could finally drive myself to San Clemente to surf... cool was never cooler than played by Jan Michael Vincent.

So, when I learned JMV had passed away I dove into the interwebs to see what'd be said.  Lots of movies and parts to his credit, but not a whisper about Matt Johnson, Big Wednesday's surf legend.

And it got me wonderin'... what will we be known for?

All the Strava cups and real medals earned are nice, but in the end it's the impact we make on each other riding through life that matters.

Ride on Matt, Ride on JMV, Ride on.

You gave me courage and desire to ride big waves... and later to ride big mountains on wheels.  

Forever grateful. 

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#PEDALPOSSE

#PEDALPOSSE

Mar 07, 2019 TODD BROWN

WE DON'T HAVE CUSTOMERS.

Yes, we do.

No, we don't.  We have a posse.

We aren't into one-time transactions. 

We are planning to ride together forever.

When things go sideways and when things are great, the posse lets us know.

We got each other's backs.

Do you want to be a customer, or do you want to be part of a posse?

_____

161.8
8/30
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THE SKILLS

THE SKILLS

Mar 06, 2019 TODD BROWN

THE SKILLS NEEDED TO GO FAST ON A BIKE MAY NOT BE WHAT YOU THINK THEY ARE.

The number one skill is time management.  Putting in the time, means finding the time.   If you need to get up early, do it.  If you need to ride the trainer at night, do it.

Number 2 is commitment.  Commit to riding no matter what.  It's cold, go ride.  It's dark, go ride.  Nobody else is going, go ride.

Number 3 is friendship.  Find your posse.  Inspire each other.  It's a heck of a lot easier to get out there if you know the rest of the kids are gonna meet ya at the corner.

Number 4 is keep it fun.  No matter what.  Ride a wheelie.  Stop for a Coke.

_____

162.2
10/30
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REFLECTIONS

REFLECTIONS

Mar 02, 2019 TODD BROWN

IF YOU'RE TRAVELING TO A RACE THERE ARE A FEW THINGS YOU CAN DO TO SPIKE YOUR CONFIDENCE.  My favorite, was actually shocking today.  In fact, my heart skipped a beat.  Such was my concern.

Exiting the shower I turned to face a full body mirror... only it wasn't my body.

Yikes!

I know I've dropped about 8 lbs since last year, but the stick creature staring back at me looked more like a resident of Pandora.

So yeah... stay at a foofoo hotel with skinny mirrors to get your climbing on!

_____

?
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I JUST LIED TO A GIRL SCOUT

I JUST LIED TO A GIRL SCOUT

Feb 27, 2019 TODD BROWN

THERE SHE WAS, ALL OF 4 1/2 FEET TALL, MOM BACKING HER UP.  Would you like some Girl Scout cookies?

I'd been prepping for this day.  After many near misses at the grocery store, here I was face to face with the most powerful sales force in America. 

Who would win?

I almost choked trying to spit our my prepared speech.

Oh darling, I'm allergic to cookies.

The beaming smile flattened.  Mom frowned, she knew.  I could hear her inner thoughts:  scumbag!

But, it's true... I am allergic to cookies.  

Want proof?

Every time I eat one, I get fat.

And the Thin Mints... forget eating one, I eat 'em by the sleeve.

And I'm racing this weekend.

And the season is on.

And I worked so hard to shed 8 lbs this winter.

And...  

_____

163.6
10/30
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HOW LONG UNTIL WE LONG?

HOW LONG UNTIL WE LONG?

Feb 25, 2019 TODD BROWN

THERE'S JUST A HINT OF SUMMER IN THE AIR.  I know it's early, but it's there.  

More heat.
More light.

How long until the summer scorchers have us longing for winter?

_____

163.6
10/30
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Aevolo Cycling and Pedal Industries

Aevolo Cycling and Pedal Industries

Feb 22, 2019 Jasmine Schmidt

We're excited to be working with the Aevolo Cycling team while they compete at the Tour Colombia. They are competing alongside six WorldTour teams, seven Pro Continental teams, 12 Continental teams, and three national teams.

Before and after the races, they use one of our custom designed RaceDay Bags to prep and organize their cycling gear. Shop and learn for yourself why we're trusted by pros: bit.ly/RaceDayBags

Pictures were taken by Tosh Clements 
#feefastridefast
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YA DON'T STOP!

YA DON'T STOP!

Feb 17, 2019 TODD BROWN

WHAT YA READ IS NOT A TEST... 

I was geeked up, pumped up, ready to rip.

Bikes loaded, boys loaded, on a trip.

Truck bouncin', phone bouncin', hit the road.

Turn around?, say what?!

Go back?

Naaaaaah....

We ridin', not callin'.

 

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THIS IS TRUE LOVE

THIS IS TRUE LOVE

Feb 14, 2019 TODD BROWN

NOTHING SAYS LOVE LIKE A VALENTINE'S DONUT... and the fact that she didn't get one for me says even more.  It says she gets me.

_____

162.2
10/30
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GO MOD

GO MOD

Feb 13, 2019 TODD BROWN

WE WANT TO CHANGE YOUR WORLD WITH MOD.  MOD is Made On Demand.  For you, that means no more minimum orders and no more long lead times.  Just go into the store we create for you and order gear as you need it.

Simple enough?

FAQ's

Where do you manufacture?  We make almost everything right here in the USA, most of it in sunny CA.

How long does it take?  Generally, production requires 3-4 weeks.  Sometimes faster, rarely slower.

How do we get our design going?  First send us your logos and any reference art - like current or previous jersey.  We'll take it from there.

How is pricing determined?  Together, we'll forecast with you the volume of products your team will purchase throughout the year then we'll set your pricing.  If you go beyond the forecast, we'll refund the difference to the early purchasers.

What is the minimum quantity needed to get going?  Just one item.  Need 1 jersey, order it.

What kind of materials do you use in your kits?  We use the finest Italian fabrics and pads, and the best YKK zippers.  

If you're ready or have questions, click here.

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GRIT.  HOPE.

GRIT. HOPE.

Feb 12, 2019 TODD BROWN

REMEMBER WAY BACK TO YESTERDAY WHEN I BRAGGED ABOUT HOW GRITTY WE (YOU AND ME) ARE?  Well, check out my morning.

1.  Still super exhausted from Saturday's Rock Cobbler.

2.  Leave house 4 minutes late.

3.  Get 5 minutes down the road and cleats will not engage... Tell me why??????... oh, yeah, Thursday I crammed them full of muddy clay and it hardened in there.

4.  Back home for 20 minutes of surgery.

5.  Leave again... now 30 minutes late.

6.  Hustle, and start making all the short cut calculations... cut through golf course, skip Melinda, make light at Marguerite...

7.  As I'm rolling past Rock N Road I see a group turn the corner.  It's just the right size I can't tell if it's the A group or the B... but, I miss the light and have to wait.

8.  Catch Dan on bike trail.  A or B, I gasp.  A.  Ugh (A's are chasing B's... and I'm escrewed).

You may be wondering why didn't I stay in bed to begin with... it was 39 and dark and I was tired?
Because of that previous post. 

Why didn't I go back to bed when I came home vs shoe surgery? 
Because of that darn post. 

Why didn't I just do my own ride vs chasing all morning? 
Because of that post.

Why do we do what we do?
Because we've got grit!

... and hope.  I was hoping I'd make up the 4 minutes, I was hoping the cleat fix would be quick, I was hoping I'd make all the lights, I was hoping I'd catch... and eventually I did catch Dan and then my neighbor Mike who'd flatted... and so, Mike and I and Isaac finished it up strong, and then Mike and I rolled home and caught up on life.

... another great ride!

(yes, this is worth your time)

 

 

_____

163.2
0/0
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GRIT

GRIT

Feb 11, 2019 TODD BROWN

I KEEP HEARING ABOUT GRIT, that it's grit that makes the difference between success and failure.

Looking at tomorrow's once again dark and cold start, I know I'll be among the few with the grit to do it.

Why?

Habit.  For sure, that's a big part.

Results.  I prefer the result of riding vs not riding.

The sunrise... is there anything better?

(6:38AM tomorrow)

_____

163.4
9/30 (slacker)
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AND THEN IT STARTED TO RAIN

AND THEN IT STARTED TO RAIN

Feb 10, 2019 TODD BROWN

10 MINUTES BEFORE THE START OF THE ROCK COBBLER IT STARTED TO SPRINKLE.  In unison, the temperature began dropping.  I ripped off my jersey threw on a base layer.

The sprinkle turned to drizzle.  Back to the van.  Off with the jersey and base layer, on with the vest.

I rode 100 yards to the Start area.

Now it was raining.  Dark, full clouds lie ahead.  I'm freezing.

Back to the van, again.  Off with the vest, off with the jersey, on with the base layer and jersey and vest. 

It's all of got...
... and I can hear the singer giving it all she's got...
... and the hommmmmmme, of theeeeeeee, BRAAAAAAAAVE!

 A yank the van door shut, hide the key, jump on HVY MTL, and catch the group as it leaves Lengthwise Brewery.

It's 42 degrees, raining, I'm basically wearing underwear, the group is barely moving during our 14 mile neutral roll out.  I start to shiver.  The bars shimmer.

Is this brave or stupid?  It's the Rock Cobbler 6.0... and it's exactly what we all signed up for:  an adventure, a test, a tour... through beautiful open country, accessible only because Sam Ames makes it happen.

We finally survived the neutral, got up to speed, and hit the first long climb.  The day before, when I test rode it, it was dry and hard and slippery.  I thought a light rain would help.  Ha!... it was slop.  While I cleaned it many were already walking.

... and I was warm, finally!

I was about 30 guys back.  Little groups of 3-5 guys slicing fast gravel and single track for the next hour.  We could all see each other, and where to go.

(NOTE:  when gravel racing, part of being prepared... of being "pro"... is downloading the map onto your Garmin.  I did not do this.  I will never skip this step again.)

About this point we took a narrow, shallow tunnel under a highway.  Into the daylight, the guy ahead of me turned left.  Just like the guy ahead of him, and the guy head of him...  I have a maxim:  the closer we get to the finish line, the dumber we get... and the left turn was a perfect example.  

We raced on... up a hike-a-bike so steep I locked my brakes then pulled myself up a few steps.  It was brutal.  My calves burned.  Lots of guys were collapsed at the top, a number of others scraping mud off their bikes so their wheels would spin.. the aid station guys didn't seem surprised to see us.  They should have been.  I refilled a bottle and got going.

There probably isn't a funner section of racing anywhere than down the slot canyon with huge banked turns that led us to the pavement.

We got a train of 4 guys, started swooping more guys, and barreling back towards Bakersfield.  Full gas!... when some hill billy in a pick up rips past us, slams on his brakes, jumps out and starts yelling.  I'm thinking, great a kook that wants off the road...  but he's yelling, you're going the wrong way, turn around.  We didn't hear that though and kept riding.  He speeds past us and does it again.  We can't believe it.  Crest fallen, we turn the train around.  We chug, neither speeding up nor slowing down. 

We yell at the other groups still heading the wrong way... eventually we get back on course and just deal with it.  We're about a half hour behind schedule.  

It's a cow trail, above the mighty Kern river... a known killer in the spring and summer, a timid friend today.  It's green and lush and slippery.  In some places the trail is a foot wide, and 15' straight down into the drink.

I love it.  This is my kind of riding.  I forget about the extra miles and get back to racing.  My buddies from home, Tim and Jeff, and I are up to full speed.  The mud is real:  thick and slow; then, sandy and gritty; fast and splashy.  So fun!

The next aid station we are begging for lube.  None.  But, plenty of food.  Tim whips out a teency, tiny lube sampler and saves us.  Many people at this point bail out. Their bikes a barely working, the legs are gone. 

We get on with it, and I'm so glad.  Sure, we had a hideous 20 minute brutal climb.  Many pitches to steep to ride.  Mud sticky enough to pull your shoes off.  But sooooo worth it.

Beautiful green pastures.  Cows.  Streams.  Earth at it's best!

And it's getting warmer and dryer.  It hasn't rained for 2 hours.  This is the desert, and it's going to get faster every single minute.  

I summit by myself.  Blow through the aid station the bottom of a Dolomiti-like road descent, start up the next climb where I see a group of 10 about 2 minutes up the road.

It's Diesel time!

15 minutes later, after surfing through their shelled riders I catch.

Hallaflippinluyah!

There's still a lot of road and gravel and single track and whoops to go, but I'm able to recover a bit and eat.  My buddy Q is here.  It's a good group riding at a fast clip.

I know what's ahead.  They don't.  I've done it.  They haven't.  They're going to. I'm not.

It's the terrible hike-a-bike us rookies already did.

They head for it, I head for the finish.  It's still 20 miles away, and the 84 mile ride I signed up for is going to wind up being 96.

Would I do the Rock Cobbler again?  For sure... with the map on my Garmin.

 ____

A few tips:  download the course so you have it - can't say this enough; bring extra lube; spray non-stick spray on your pedals, shoes and parts of your frame the collect mud... I'm sure next year will be totally different and I'll have all new mistakes to learn from.

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TOMORROW WE COBBLE

TOMORROW WE COBBLE

Feb 08, 2019 TODD BROWN

I'VE BEEN WANTING TO DO THE ROCK COBBLER FOR YEARS... Sam is known turning the fun up to 11.

Wade suggested I reset my expectations to entertainment... be prepared to be bombed by beach balls.

Dave said to spray my shoes and pedals and down tube with non-stick spray... that mud and those hikes are real.

Tim and Chris said they're just here for the miles... its Tim's 5th and Chris' 1st.

I checked out the first miles today... straight up!

What have I gotten myself into?

_____

161.2
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SO CLOSE AND YET SO FAR

SO CLOSE AND YET SO FAR

Feb 07, 2019 Buddha Apps Collaborator

THERE I WAS, SHAKING DOWN HVY MTL BEFORE SATURDAYS ROCK COBBLER.  It had all gone so well.

Chain was quiet.

Paint was sparkly.

Had to go all terrain to do it right.  Hit some pavement, hit some gravel, hit some chunky asphalt, hit some dirt.

But, the dirt was sticky.  Not too sticky, just sticky enough to give my treads a light glaze of brown.  

As I climbed along the final dirt pitch, I could see in my mind the other side.  It was steep, the rain for sure would have dug some deep grooves.  I'd have to bunny hop a bit.  The big question was the 50' of flat from the bottom of the hill to the pavement.

How bad could it be?

The grooves turned out to be more trench-like.  I worked my way jumping and sliding quickly.  I could see the flat section.  Smooth as can be.

I pinned it... full speed... I got it, I got it, I... the pinning turned to spinning... harder, faster became deeper... and stuck.

New shoes ankle deep in California clay... almost lost 'em.

Turns out this was a good thing... I double checked the weather for Saturday:  rain from mid-night so sunrise.  I called Super Dave, who's raced it many times... 

Bro, will road shoes work at The Cobbler.

No, way... BWR yes... but, Cobbler has a solid hike-a-bike.

Yikes!

He gave me three more solid tips to make it through this crazy course Sam has cooked up.

 ... I can smell the mud from here... mmmmmmmmmm

_____

161.4
10/30
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A NEEEEEW BIKE!

A NEEEEEW BIKE!

Feb 06, 2019 TODD BROWN

THIS MUST BE WHAT MONTY HALL FELT LIKE... her shock, way back on Christmas Day; then her joy today, when it was finally ready for a ride.

It'd been years since her last new road bike... which was preceded by the arrival of Trevor, making us a party of 3.

Oh, there had been plenty of mountain bikes and motorcycles and surfboards during that time... as well as our party growing to 5 with Shane and Shelby.

But, no road bikes.

It was probably my doing... we lived in a mountain bike mecca and that's all I rode for years.

Then, I got into the road scene via Trevor's passion for it.

He got out of it, I stayed fully immersed... loving it.

She didn't seem to care.

Did she?

Did she mind being a road widow?

Didn't seem like it... but, I'm a dude... and dudes can be sooooo clueless.

The last month has been like watering a dry plant.

I may not be the be the quickest of riders,
but, I got this one right.

_____

162.4
10/30
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IN THE MIDST OF IT ALL

IN THE MIDST OF IT ALL

Feb 05, 2019 TODD BROWN

IN THE MIDST OF ALL THE CHAOS LIFE SERVES UP, there waits our humble bike.

Through launching a career or business, starting a family or raising teenagers, caring for each other or an elderly parent, in good times and bad times... it waits.

Sometimes, too long.

Tires get splashy, or flat.

Chain gets stiff, or rusty.

The helmet and shoes dusty, or lost.

The gear buried, or given away.

But that bike, it waits.

Like an old dog, we can't give it away.  Not while it longingly looks up and hoping today's the day we get back outside... escape the garage... and put a great big giant smile on my master's face.

In the midst of it all, when it's all a little too much...

... go ride your bike.

_____

163.8
10/30
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I DON'T ALWAYS BONK...

I DON'T ALWAYS BONK...

Feb 04, 2019 TODD BROWN

I DON'T ALWAYS BONK, BUT WHEN I DO... sometimes it's a work.

I just get jamming, and in the zone, and "lunch time" passes by... and then it's mid-afternoon or later... and I'm hungry like a wolf!

More of the time I've got a bar or two stashed in my desk or glove compartment.

Just another reason to be grateful to be a bike rider.

Am I weird?

_____

163.2
10/30
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OUR LENS

OUR LENS

Feb 02, 2019 TODD BROWN

OUR LENS.

Will it be an adventure?

Will we be tested?

Will we meet some cool people?

Will it require our best?

Will we make a difference in someone's life?

Will we learn a ton?

Will it be fun?

Will we go fast?

Will it be dangerous?

Will we need new skills?

Will it be unpredictable?

Will it change us?

We're in.

_____

161.8
10/30
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THE OLD N +1

THE OLD N +1

Feb 01, 2019 TODD BROWN

THEY SAY EVERY RIDER SHOULD HAVE ALL THE BIKES HE OR SHE NEEDS, plus one more.  Or something like that.

But, what if we had N - 1.

What if there was always a need for one more bike?

Oh... right... that's exactly how it is.

Right now my "- 1" is a full suspension XC racer.  I'm feeling a need to get back to the dirt, back to my roots.

How 'bout you?

_____

162.4
10/30
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MAKE UP PULLS ARE NOT THE SAME AS MAKE UP LOVE

MAKE UP PULLS ARE NOT THE SAME AS MAKE UP LOVE

Jan 31, 2019 TODD BROWN

COVER YOUR EYES KIDS... sometimes mommy and daddy aren't getting along, and then someone eventually tosses an olive branch, and soon enough sparks are flying like never before... but, that's not how it works in a pace line.

Look, I know you've been skipping pulls.  Everybody in the pace line does, and nobody is happy about it.

Don't make it worse!

Don't wander up to the front and think,  Well I feel pretty good now that I've rested I better make up for it by doing a monster pull.  Doing a big, long, fast pull will not ingratiate yourself.  It's not make up sex... it's more like, well... I don't know exactly... but, I do know you're going to tick everybody off with these shenanigans.

Resist.

Do this.

Roll through like the gentlemen or lady you think you are... take a normal pull... slot back in... and do it again and again and again...

Eventually, we'll forget and forgive your previous misdeeds.  That's how to kiss and make up in a pace line.

XOXO

PS... no, this isn't about you... 'cause I know you, you think it's you, but it's not you... it's someone else : )

_____

162.2
10/30
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

Jan 30, 2019 TODD BROWN

HEY MAN, YOU GOING IN LATE TODAY OR TAKING THE DAY OFF?

Going in late.

Cool.  We never get you on this ride.

He neglected to mention it was his birthday!  Somebody who knew happybirthdayed him. 

Yeah, Happy Birthday man!  You really going into work?

Yep.

Well, can't think of a better way to start the day off!

 _____

161.8
10/30
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OUR A TEAM IS GROWING, AND I'M STOKED!

OUR A TEAM IS GROWING, AND I'M STOKED!

Jan 29, 2019 TODD BROWN

WE MAKE NEARLY ALL OUR GEAR IN THE U.S. of A 'MERICA!  It's freakin' awesome.  We have so much more flexibility as a manufacturer of custom products than we did when were offshoring.

Which for me, personally, is hellavalotta fun!

And, for our customers, hellavalotta convenient.

It's more fun because it's so much easier to create new products, control quality.  There's nothing like hands on.  Plus, we're employing Americans.

It's more convenient because our design team is here.   Customer's team stores never close now.  They can order 1 thing or a 100.  And get their orders in less than 4 weeks.

American.  Awesome.

 _____

162.2
10/30
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HOW'S THE WEATHER?

HOW'S THE WEATHER?

Jan 28, 2019 TODD BROWN

WHEN I'M RACING I LOVE WORTHLESS DATA. I don't use a power meter, but I do use h.r..  But, I don't... when I'm racing any way.  I used to.

Now, I prefer nonsense.

Before nonsense, I would toss the Garmin into my back pocket.

Now... give me the weather.

Whether or not...

if I can't keep up, what's the point of knowing?

Do or do not...

Rather than think of all the pain, or how intense the effort is...

In a road race, nothing matters...

Except being the last guy to lead.

 _____

163.2
10/30
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THE FIRST TIME

THE FIRST TIME

Jan 26, 2019 TODD BROWN

OVER THE YEARS, I'VE BEEN TO A LOT OF RACES.  I've always wanted to do what I did today, but had never done it.

It's always been... 

Go to my race, go home.

or

Go to my race, hang out for a bit, go home.

But, today it was...

Be the first one at the venue... because I spent the night there.  Watch a few races.  Do my race.  Watch the rest of the races.  Catch up with a lot of my friends I don't see often enough.

It was fun to see so many people having fun racing bicycles.  More than just my peers.  From what I could tell all got their money's worth.  They were challenged.  Some won.  Most didn't.  But, it didn't seem to matter.

One of the winners was my friend Doug.  He took off on the last lap, the same exact spot he took off on 2 years ago.  That time we caught him about 30' before the finish line.  Today when he jumped ahead of the group, I was hoping he'd make it... granted, we raced in a combined race today and we weren't in the same group otherwise I met have felt different... but, to his credit, he went for it.  Did a massive solo attack with about 5 miles to go and made it stick.

Personally, I had a great day.  After being sick last week, and not being able to ride much I was not sure how I'd do.  My strategy was pretty simple... wait until the last possible second, then go.  It worked pretty darn good.

My buddy Dave Letttieri, finished right behind me.  Woulda been even cooler if he'd been able to stick around for the photo.

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BREAKING IT DOWN.

BREAKING IT DOWN.

Jan 25, 2019 TODD BROWN

TOMORROW WE RACE.

It'll be a gun fight for sure.
A few will draw early, only to miss wildly.
A few more will shoot out the back due to simple physics.
Then the rest will draw and fire.
One will hit the mark.

It's 1/3 to 1/2 a mile to the finish, depending on where the line is... up a hill that hits 11% mid-way, then backs off to nearly flat.

My prediction:

Lap 3, it's probably all back together.

Lap 2, multiple breakaways will be attempted.

Lap 1, most likely feeling things out.

Neutral roll out down the hill we finish on.

For me it'll be 3 laps - 42 miles.  About 2 hours.

 

Preceded by a solid night of sleep.

On a belly full of tacos.

 

 

 

 

Then 

 

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GO. PRO.

GO. PRO.

Jan 23, 2019 TODD BROWN

IT HAPPENED TO EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US.  We got on a bike.  Liked it.  Rode the next day... a little faster, a little further.  For the next 50 or so rides we were better every single time.

We were going pro!

Eventually things leveled off.

Adrenalin.
New friends.
Superior health.
Never-ending challenges.

These are the things that keep us hooked. 

 

 _____

160.6
10/30
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FLOOPIN' A!

FLOOPIN' A!

Jan 22, 2019 TODD BROWN

I GUESS WE HAVE 3 LOOPS ON OUR TUESDAY RIDE NOW:  A, B AND F.

The B loop is our original, amazing 20.67 mile course that has 2000' feet of elevation gain.

The A loop, has a little extra credit that adds about a mile with a couple of stiff little pitches.

The F loop.

Today was very windy, pretty cold and definitely dark.

We had 3 riders on the B loop, down about 90%.  12 riders on the A loop, down about 15%.  And, about 35 riders on the F loop, up about 1,000,000%.

The F loop is that loop you do when you get out of bed realize it's windy, cold and dark and Fall back in bed... because Fair weather will be back soon.

How would you grade your loop today?

 _____

161.8
10/30
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IT'S NOT CHILDISH, IT'S EVERYTHING

IT'S NOT CHILDISH, IT'S EVERYTHING

Jan 21, 2019 TODD BROWN

TWO THINGS YOU CAN BANK ON WITH AGE:  some will continue to dream and hope, some will give up.

Over here we keep dreaming, and making dreams come true.

Rolling into 2019 a big part of our dream has been put into place... we can now manufacture all our cycling gear in under 4 weeks, with no minimum, in the USA.  Something we've worked on for a solid year.

We keep putting the pieces in place, and I'm more excited than ever about what's going on at PEDALindustries.  So much more to do.

On the fitness side, I dreamt last year I could roll into '19 at my college weight on 162.  10 lbs shed and holding very steady.

Every day I pray our family will be close and continue growing and learning and loving.  Every day is like a dream.

What does 2019 hold?  In years past, I've crafted it all on MLK Day... my favorite holiday!... but, this year I'm going deeper and clearer... should be done in about a week.

Are you a dreamer?

 _____

162.4
10/30
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THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN

THE BOYS ARE BACK IN TOWN

Jan 19, 2019 TODD BROWN

WE GOT THIS SATURDAY RIDE THAT KICKS @$$... we don't always ride it, but when we do... damn I'm happy.  Happy to see the boys.  Happy to see the beautiful coast.  Happy to know it's gonna hurt.

It's got everything

Fast rollers.

A 3.5 mile, 1000' climb up NPC

Skimming the Back Bay.

Hooking up with the Food Park hammers.

Shattering speed on Hwy 133.

Punishing power climbs through Aliso.

Soft pedaling PID, just for fun.

But, the best part is it's got the boys.  Our band of brothers.  Slaying dragons for our families, batting life's twists and turns together... letting loose for a few hours together as the sunrises.

It's the boys ride:  https://www.strava.com/routes/16848778 ... join us some time.

 _____

161.6
0/0
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JUST THINKING OF YOU...

JUST THINKING OF YOU...

Jan 18, 2019 TODD BROWN

SOMETIMES I'M JRA, MAKING AN EFFORT TO KEEP THE HR LOW AND MY MIND WANDERS... I start thinking of the next race or next time I'll be in over my head on a group ride or maybe even reliving an unpleasant experience and bam!

...my heart rate shoots up 10-20 beats a minute...
way out of my zone

But, nothing is like the start line of an actual race.  Road isn't too bad, a crit is a little worse, but an honest XC race is unbelievable.  My heart rate will be 120+ bpm, and I'm doing nothing.  Trying to act cool, like no big deal.

What else is
... Just in my head?
taking me out of the zone...

 _____

160.8
10/30
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WHAT'S YOUR ONE THING?

WHAT'S YOUR ONE THING?

Jan 17, 2019 TODD BROWN

IF YOU COULD BE GOOD AT ONE THING ON A BIKE WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Sprinting?

Climbing?

Skidding?

Valverdeing?  You know, that thing where you don't do any work then out of nowhere you snag the V.

Saganing?  You know, otherworldly bike handling skills. 

Frooming?  You know, looking like a praying mantis while actually preying on the lessor ectomorphs.

Schurtering?  You know, dominating MTB for years.

Youing?  You know, just being your awesome best self.

 _____

163
10/30
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