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THE CAVE
THE ANALOGIES we come up as endurance athletes can be so disconnected from reality because, if we're being totally honest...
... it's hard to explain to the uninitiated.
Let alone those closest to us.
They're things only we understand, and as soon as we hear it, we're like...
... Yeah, totally!
I thought about this today as we dropped into one our weirder family traditions...
- from 5 on up to 78
- wiggling into the openilng
- crouch crawling the first 30' in pitch black
... slithering down into Harris Cave.
Once we're far enough in, the lava tube opens up into a cavern, then...
... pinches down again for another cramped effort.
Before opening up to yet another cavern where we can stand and feel slightly less threatened by claustrophobia and...
... whatever might be lurking down there to get us, should our lights fail.
Which is analogous to ...
- forcing ourselves in
- adjusting and relaxing in the darkness
- before doing it all again to find out how far we can go
... the pain cave we all love and loathe.
===
165ish lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
700ish anti-oxidant level
not today Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
no today Lower Body: 15 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
169/171/-11 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
LIFE IS PRECIOUS
TAKING RISKS these days ain’t what it used to be. Most of us live close to civilization. If we were to take a tumble, emergency medical services…
… would be helping us, whisking us a away.
Within minutes.
I thought about that, plummeting down a lonely dirt road in the middle of nowhere.
Life and death.
About 90 years ago, my relatives were working a sawmill they’d built (see pic).
A young cousin was manning a large log,
the timber bucked,
catching him.
His leg was gashed.
The others gathered to try and help…
- · 50 miles to town
- · horrendous dirt roads
- · no communications, no helicopters
… but there was nothing they could do.
He was dead in minutes.
Prior to stopping at the sawmill site,
I gotta ping on my cell phone.
Service is spotty at best out here.
Our daughter had gone into labor,
they’d easily made it to the nearby hospital,
doctors and nurses and all the supplies were ready.
===
Update: mother and baby are happy and healthy!
===
165ish lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
700ish anti-oxidant level
not today Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
no today Lower Body: 15 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
167/168/-2 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE DIFFERENCE
KNOWING THE ORIGIN of things can be empowering if we can tie it into who we are and how we operate. But, in today's connected world...
... it's easy to operate unconsciously.
Asleep.
Which is why I've sold my rather large extended family on the virtues of trekking...
- no cell service
- rustic cabins
- tents
... out to the homestead.
Land my great great grandpappy lived on for 3 years to secure the title...
- where my grampa rode out the Spanish flu epidemic
- where my dad spend his summers cowboying
- where I spent a few days every other year
... over 100 years ago.
Some of the distant cousins still ranch,
most of us are city slickers.
Soft.
Unacquainted with the land.
How it...
- feels
- smells
- sounds
... when we're living unplugged.
You know what I'm getting at right?
The feeling we have when rolling with a group,
talking and sharing...
... because plugging in would distract from the experience.
Living.
===
164.4 lbs 12.7%
7ish hours sleep
700 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 50 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
171/193/-23 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
LOOKING BACK AT TRANSFORMATIONAL
[as I prep for my A race, I thought I'd look back how I felt the last time I did it, in 2022]
IT'S NOT FOR EVERYBODY, but it might be for you. I came across this concept a bunch of times over the years. It never really sunk in until I heard it stated like this...
... I increased my volume a lot.
Yeah, we've all heard that. However, what followed hit deeply into my thought process and ultimately my training...
... It has been transformational.
Who doesn't want to transform their training?
Let me pause right here.
It might not work for you. The main reason is the timing of life just isn't right. For me, it's working...
... because I now have the time.
When I had less time, and less focus, a big week for me was about 12 hours...
... an average week, about 8.
These days, in fact this year, my biggest week ever has been 20 hours...
... the last four build weeks have averaged nearly 15, and 12 the rest of the year.
That's nowhere the 20-30 hours most pros put in. In fact, it's a challenge during this build session before Leadville. Frankly, I'm happy in the 12 range. Plenty fit...
... by making my average week equal my formally biggest week.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
In the end, it's about doing all you can do...
... a topic I cover in the 2nd chapter of my book.
Which is free, just cover the shipping and handling.
https://pedalindustries.myshopify.com/products/the-way-of-the-r-a-c-e-r
===
164.4 lbs 12.7%
7ish hours sleep
700 anti-oxidant level
not today Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
no today Lower Body: 15 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
175/223/-49 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BAKING CAKES
HOW DO WE KNOW it's time to bring the high volume phase to an end, when preparing for the A race of the year? It's a lot like baking a cake...
... at some point we gotta put it the oven.
And, wait.
If we stretch out the build phase too long,
we run the very real possibility of over cookin' it...
... winding up burnt.
Crispy.
If we stop too far out from the A race,
well, then our training ingredients...
... might never rise.
Leaving us flat.
I'm sure there's some real science we could tap into,
or the wise voice of a trusted coach.
Barring those options, I lean toward...
- feeling exhausted
- not wanting to get outside
- residual, never-receding muskul pain
... as my top indicators.
I'm officially there.
Couldn't come at a better time.
I'll be spending an extended weekend...
- mainly talking
- hanging out
- relaxing
... at the family reunion.
Oh, that cake analogy...
... now is the time to give the training into deliciousness.
===
166.4 lbs 12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
750 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 15 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
170/201/-32 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S NOT ENOUGH TO BE STRONG
THE TOUR DE FRANCE took a big tumble today. Jonas, running in 2nd place, a previous winner and excellent bike handler failed to navigate a very tricky turn...
... and broke his clavicle.
Sucks.
Before the news hit, enlightening us all to one potential factor in causing him to go down...
... I was already thinking about why some crashes happen.
More importantly, why some hit the deck and shatter, while others...
... pop back up and keep racing.
My thoughts were self-centered of course.
The effort to do hundreds of...
- pushups
- pullups
- squats
... building up my body's ability to handle what is thrown at me, late into a ride or race?
It feels like it is,
as I feel in complete control 5 hours into a stout offroad ride.
At the same time,
am I putting body in a state where it is more likely to bend vs break?
These thoughts were going through my head as the skin and bones Jonas was clearly in massive pain.
Then, I heard the unthinkable.
After traveling hundreds of kilometers from yesterday's race to today's,
arriving very late in the evening...
... he was awakened for a drug test at 2am.
No matter what we are doing to keep our bodies in top shape to handle the demands of racing...
... missing sleep when we are already exhausted is a formula for disaster.
===
164.4 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 24 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
174/228/-55 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY, IT'S ROUTINE
IN THE QUEST TO SQUEEZE IT ALL IN, we learn to develop and rely on routines. Do something consistently, and it becomes rote. Boring in the sense that...
... we don't have to think about it.
Saving us all kinds of mental energy, as well.
Here are a few examples that made today's ride, much better.
20 minutes into my 2 hour sprint to meet Smiley, I felt my rear tire losing a ton of air...
- added air with CO2
- noticed a leak
- plugged it
... took less than 60 seconds to diagnose and repair.
Thought I'd better text him to confirm my ETA, and noticed I'd left my phone at home.
Doh!
But, I have a reputation for being on time and it's routine for me not to wait, so...
- I pressed on
- arrived at Cook's at 9
- didn't see him there, waited 2 minutes at the trailhead
... and we blasted the climb together.
Mostly together,
he always starts out hotter than me,
becoming my top rabbit to chase and pace.
When I rolled up to the general store for my Saturday fix, 4.5 hours into the ride, parched and empty, without my phone to pay...
- popcicle
- Mexican Coke
... I didn't have to beg, because they know my m.o. and that I'm good for it.
And, that's just a smidge of routine evidence for operational mastery.
Carry on.
Oh, and in case your wondering...
- a mini tool
- 2 CO2s + 1 nozzle
- Dynaplug RacerPro (4 plugs)
... what's in my mini raceday bag.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-mini-raceday-bag-2-0-isd
===
166 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none todayLower Body: 10 ATG air squats and 24 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
178/263/-86 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
>
PRUNE, FOCUS, EXECUTE
HOW WE ARRIVED AT OUR CURRENT LEVEL OF COMPETENCY is a matter of choice. And, that's the challenge. In a world where we can do anything...
... it's easy to reach the end of the day having done nothing.
We know better.
Starting with pruning the options...
- uplifting
- challenging
- beneficial to others
... leaving only the good stuff.
Then, we focus...
- attracting
- believing
- feeling
... with the blinders on, seeing only our end goal.
Executing daily...
... continuously improving.
Very nice you say,
but make it practical.
Ok.
Here's an example.
I really enjoy racing and riding my XC mountain bike.
Knowing that, I've built up a race-ready rig...
... and taken it to the next level.
Most recently, that meant rebuilding the suspension...
- removing the Brain
- replacing a bunch of parts
- and all new lubes and fluids
... which now is supremely supple and plush, fork and shock.
When we are unwilling to prune, focus and execute...
... we are in our comfort zone.
The case there would be comfort with absolute crap vs...
... demanding the best performance we can aquire.
Got it?
===
165lbs 12.7%
7ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none todayLower Body: 10 ATG air squats and 24 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
161/169/-9 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S NOT BRAIN SURGERY?
AT A CERTAIN LEVEL, the set up of our equipment is highly personal. The reason is simple, we are putting in a massive amount of time. And, the minutest adjustment...
... can muck it all up.
A lot.
Leading to anything from a niggle to a...
... Screw it, I'm done with this sport.
So it was with great care that a swapped out my cleats today.
They weren't completely warn out, but they were a little sloppy and replacing them now vs a week before my A race seemed prudent.
I scrubbed up...
- pictures had been taken of the current position
- the area around the cleats taped off
- tools and lube lay at the ready
... put on my operating apron.
The procedure went as expected,
no complication.
The patient was warned to take it easy the next few days,
and expect to feel some initial discomfort.
Physical therapy, in the form of bringing a torque wrench on the next few rides, was presribed.
Like the idiot I am, I promptly headed out for 90 minutes and a fair amount of climbing...
... stopping for many adjustments.
Got close to the old position,
gonna take a few more rides to reach nirvana.
PS... if this seems dramatic, or overkill, blame my dad burning this lesson into my young impressionable mind. his first lawyering job was as a malpractice attorney and the first case was defending a doctor who cut off the wrong leg.
===
163.6 lbs 12.7%
7ish hours sleep
6800 anti-oxidant level
√ today Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 10 ATG air squats and 24 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
164/192/-28 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I SCREAM
DURING THE LARGEST BUILD PHASE, the miles and hours are waywayway bigger than our norm. It can be daunting, overwhelming...
... we need a reward.
Beyond kudos.
Something to see us through.
Which is exactly what I was thinking today,
halfway through what will like be my biggest week of the year.
Building for Leadville.
The route would be much longer than my usual Dirty Wednesday...
... and it hit my like a icy bolt from the Silver Surfer.
If I stayed on the pedals,
I'd have time to stop by the General Store.
A hundred year old building I usually only visit on Saturdays.
The point being...
... the always have the best selection of Mexican popsicles.
I was flooded with a memory of my dad, and his favorite saying...
... I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream.
And that was all I needed to get me through the summer heat.
Today.
What will it be tomorrow?
165.4 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
√ today Upper Body: 110 push ups, 22 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 110 ATG air squats and 24 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
167/217/-50 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THIS IS 'A' SUPER COOL CAT
MOST OF US DON'T KNOW THE HISTORY of the famous group rides. I'm not talking about the one 5 locals started a couple of months back...
... I'm talkin' the legendary loops.
And, their morphing iterations over the years.
I was reminded of how our heralded TMWC...
... took it to the next level by adding some extra credit.
Called the A loop.
About 10 years ago, Super Dave Koesel made a great suggestion.
We should add on to the ride.
Why?
So we have something to do vs waiting for the guys at the regroup.
It took us a few iterations,
carving our way through a neighborhood,
adding on two punchysprinty climbs.
Finally, we had it perfected,
arriving just in time to meet the crew...
... and keep rolling full gas.
Plus, since we had just started cracking the hour on the original TMWC, back then...
... now we had an updated hour goal.
We've hit it on the A loop multiple times,
even got closer than we've been lately today, 1:02:54 (for me)...
... could it be because Super Dave was back in town, after years of being gone?
===
ICYMI... Super Dave is an aero genius... Remember when 3T came out with their aero gravel bike, years before that was a thing?... yeah, that was Dave's project.
Here's a link to his current company... look to see top secret versions of these bikes at the Olympics.
===
167 lbs 12.7% (I keep telling myself I'm 10lbs over goal because of all the strength work, but we all know it's because
7ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 10 ATG air squats and 10 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
166/216/-50 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THAT SONG!
WE AIN'T SERIOUS if we don't have a our own battle song. The one we can count on when...
... well, all the time.
Could be a playlist.
Mine, current fave for firing up...
... Born To Run, Frankie Goes To Hollywood version
On repeat.
Now Chuck shared a forgotten gem with me for raceday...
... Kickstart My Heart, by Motley Crew.
Surfergirl on vacation...
... Don't Disturb This Grove, by The System
To get pumped for motos in the desert the kids loved...
... Animals, by Nickleback
When I head off to the pearly gates, my beatbox will be humming...
... Low Rider, by War.
What's yours?
===
166.4 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
5900 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 20 ATG air squats and 10 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
159/181/-22 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IS IT THE EFFORT THAT COUNTS?
WHEN TRAINING FOR THE 'A' RACE, if we're really all in, it's imperative that we prepare by doing the work demanded by the course. That means we have to nail the pace...
... we can sustain.
Or do we?
Lemme splainit.
Say, I'm training for a punchy event with lots of power climbs...
... short 1-5 minutes, repeating.
I could do intervals at a specified power output...
... or I could go for the burn I know I can barely handle for 1-5 minutes.
Or, take my upcoming Leadville MTB race, I know the pace I need to sustain to meet my goal finishing time.
Training the effort required...
... is part art and part science.
The science might say we need to put out an average of X watts...
- getting over a steep, short pitch
- hustling to catch a group
- tucking a long downhill
... the art is knowing when to go above or below the power needed.
Being intimately aware of the effort > callous commitment to pace.
===
165 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 10 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
163/209/-46 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THIS IS POLARZING
THE DEBATE RAGES ON, whether or not polarized training is valuable for the unwashed or is it just for the uber elites putting in bigbig hours. To really get a grasp on the argument...
... let's look at from other perspectives.
Take marketing.
In marketing, we tout what makes us special, unique, desirable...
... while pointing out the enemies of our awesomeness.
For example, when it comes to bags I might communicate dome bags with everything piled inside are just complete trash and chaos...
... where as our RaceDay bags make raceday smooth, easy and successful.
In politics, the party we align with makes the others out to be stupid, incompetent and evil...
... where our party is full of benevolent geniuses.
It's the same with...
- religion
- sports teams
- abortion, climate change, guns, borders, etc
... topics never to be brought up at Thanksgiving dinner.
What does this have to do with training and us?
I'm just trying to set the stage....
- too much time in tempo
- not enough aggregate training
- inadequate or non-existent recovery
... polarized training has enemies, too.
I was thinking about that today,
because I had a great day with the fellas.
Here's how I set it up...
- Monday Z1
- Tuesday romping group ride, all zones all out
- Wednesday high Z2
- Thursday low Z2
- Friday Z1, barely tapping the pedals
- Saturday, 6 hours at Leadville pace with nearly 2 hours at threshold or above
... finishing the final ride, feeling pretty darn good despite 9000' in 80 miles.
If you disagree...
... then, I have succeeded in providing you some polarizing thoughts on polarization.
===
165.4 lbs 12.7% <- this blubber has got to go!
7.5ish hours sleep
600 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 10 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 20 ATG air squats and 10 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
167/241/-74 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S GOING TO BE HIDDI
TRAINING FOR AN EPIC ride or race is always tricky. It's so easy to over do it on the preparation when we want to be confident that we are ready...
... to go the distance.
Battle hardened.
So, when I put together tomorrow's route and added...
... It's going to be hideous.
I had to ask myself...
... What the heck are you thinking?!
This goes against my plan to prepare for Leadville this year by staying under
- 5 hrs
- 8000'
- 80 miles
... fresh and not torched.
Aiming for more power,
and efficiency.
We're going to over every one of those metrics tomorrow,
plus it's a group of hitters and we'll be hitting it.
Yes, I could pull the plug,
or just not show.
But, who are we kidding when we say stuff like that?
(Hideous rides call to my soul. How 'bout you?)
===
164.4 lbs 12.5%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 10 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 20 ATG air squats and 10 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
152/152/-1 per Strava Relative Effort (whatever that means)
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT WE ARE
LOOKING WHERE WE WANT TO GO takes great discipline. Not to be distracted by the lady in the red dress is...
... a skill that deserves mastery.
It's not easy.
Time and time again, ripping the course, we have to ignore the obvious perils and...
... stay focused on our goal.
Going as fast as possible,
error free.
Oddly,
limiting our vision to the best path forward is relaxing.
Calming.
Requiring less energy.
Ultimately, a heckuvalot faster.
So, we practice the skill all the time and when we have those Oh shift! moments...
... we forgive ourselves, and reset.
Perhaps the great Emerson said it best...
... What we are, that only can we see.
===
164.4 lbs 12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
530 anti-oxidant level
√ today Upper Body: 10 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 20 ATG air squats and 10 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
90/98/-8 per Strava
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
>
THE SLIGHT EDGE
BECAUSE WE USE OUR GEAR every day, we don't always notice the performance is degrading. It's gradual, and we are...
... more concerned with our own numbers.
But, the gear matters.
If we remember anything from the dominance of Team Sky it's...
... marginal gains.
They matter.
Not necessarily individually,
collectively they stack and become game changers.
So are the marginal losses.
I share this as a cautionary tale.
While in Park City a few weeks back,
bombing miles and miles of sweet single track...
... my fork went from finicky to very funked up
My pal Chad helped me get it working enough to enjoy the trip.
As soon as I returned, I rang up the local suspension whiz Mike and gave him the situation.
He ordered parts from Sram to rebuild and improve the fork by replacing the Brain.
Simple enough,
and 7 weeks before Leadville.
Dropped off the bike Monday, planning to have it back for the weekend and continue to perfect my oneness with my steed.
Hey Todd.
Hi Mike.
We gotta small problem.
Uh-oh.
Sram sent the wrong parts.
Dang.
Yeah, it's gonna be another 10 days.
Is the suspension torn to pieces?
Yes.
Ok, I understand.
Now, here's the part we all need to understand...
- we need to stay on top of the maintenance
- allow plenty of time for parts to arrive
- and for the mechanic's schedule
... in order to have the slight edge we need on raceday.
===
165.8 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
530 anti-oxidant level
√ today Upper Body: 125 push ups, 25 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 125 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
91/103/-10 per Strava
What I'm reading: State of The Union, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
2026 TUESDAY MORNING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS WERE LIT
ABOUT THE MOST FUN we can have is upping our game for the weekly group ride. The good ones all have memorable names. Just saying them sparks...
... anything from fear to fun.
Like The TMWC.
A ride we started 24 years ago...
- 30+ riders every Tuesday at 630
- most wearing the ride's kit
- with an annual throwdown
... and is still ripping today.
Today wasn't any ol Tuuzdee...
- the regulars
- the outta towners
- the first timers hoping to hang on
... it was the unOFFICIAL 2026 Championships.
4 categories...
- Women
- U35
- U50
- U100
... racing for glory.
Bragging rights for a year.
The course has never changed, but...
- fullgas from the start
- even paced 'till The Wall
- saving it all for the Corkscrew finish
... the raceday never plays out the same.
Today unfolded with bouts of massive power,
dropping to conversational,
and back at it.
The only thing that was the same was Alessandro...
... pulling off the first Threepeat.
He was so far off the front the camera crew mistook him as some cat who happened upon the course...
... except he raced up The Wall with god-like speed.
Put over a minute on lil' ol' me,
and nearly everyone else.
Insane.
Priscilla crushed the women's field,
snatching longstanding, legit QOMs.
It's not all about the wins, though.
Juan was voted most-improved,
and Eric picked up rookie of the year.
These aren't participation trophies ...
... they represent outstanding effort, week after week.
Congrats to these cats....
Overall
Alessandro
Kody
Andrew
Women
Priscilla
Maria
Vi
U35
Andrew
Eric
Scott
U50
Kody
Drew
Alfredo
U100
Alessandro
Rob
Mani
Still reading?
Wondering how we pull it off?
Our 4 rules are key...
- Leave on time
- Obey the law
- Make a friend
- Have fun
... plus, always be inviting.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/2024-tmwc
Use Promo Code TMWC2026 To Save 20% On The Gear
===
166 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 90 push ups, 18 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 112 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
90/100/-10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHO HAS THE BEST TdF ANALYSIS?
THERE ARE A LOT of professional pundits pontificating the particulars of each stage of the Tour de Frants. Then, there's the amachurs. Us handlebar hams...
... handing out our homemade takes.
Who's best?
Certainly it's not Velo's...
Jonas Vingegaard was left choking in Pogi's exhaust and came to the line two seconds back after the 1.7km hilltop kick to Les Angles.
... latest retarded hyperbole.
Cycling News' take...
A devastatingly-long and sustained acceleration by Tadej... with a two-second advantage.
... wasn't much of an improvement.
Jonas said it better...
It's a shame, of course. But when we started the Tour, we expected to lose time... so it's a good starting point that I'm tied on time with Tadej.
... and more accurately.
But, he's not selling ads for eyeballs.
My eyeballs and ears like to take in...
- Chris Horner for pointing out the knucklehead moves of the day
- Lance's podcast for the entertainment
- GCN's breathy and breasty euroness
... if I have the time.
And then there's NBC's crew...
- I do feel for Brent and TJ having to educate the unwashed with silly cartoons and goofy bets
- No way I could ride the sissybar like Christian or do the man on the course stuff like Steve
- Amid correcting, Bobke does a good job as the straight man
-
Phil may miss a few deets, but that voice is still gold to me
... collecting a solid paycheck.
Nothing wrong with that.
For actual, pure analysis...
- concise
- relatable
- insightful
... I think Tom Danielson does it best.
He delivers it via blog, vlog and podcast.
You're probably thinking Nice job taking potshots at people just trying to do their jobs...
... to which I'll counter, I'm grateful we have so many real human points of view vs the AI slop sure to come our way.
Links to Tom's work:
https://cinchcycling.cc/blogs/news/tour-de-france-stage-3-tadejs-boxing-match
===
166 lbs 12.7%
8ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 90 push ups, 18 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 112 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
87/81/5 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ABOUT WHEN IT'S NOT WORKING
MOST OF US have a test course, a segment that is our fitness barometer, where we lay down a valiant effort, then upload it...
... to see where we're at.
Sometimes years of data points.
When we're prepping for the A race we'll hit it hard.
The results are instructive...
- PR'd it
- on track
- woefully wanting
... from elation to devastation.
Gratefully, it's usually good and confirming info.
But, what about when it isn't?
Like my Leadville prep test up a similar climb to Columbine...
- 1:10 in May
- 1:14 in June
- 1:15 in July
... which is honestly, quite discouraging?
The May effort I was waiting for my friends,
in June I was chasing all the way,
in July I went alone.
July's effort was the shortest
June's was much longer,
May's the longest.
Big takeaway...
... my fitness is going backwards.
So, find the positives...
- I'm descending better than I have since the TBI
- the nutrition plan seems to be on point
- the bike is nearly complete
... and make adjust ments.
I still have 7 weeks to turn it around...
- stop shredding my legs with weight training
- get back to throttling Saturdays
- stack the Zone 2 miles
... and I have some definite ideas on how to do that.
Will it work?
I dunno.
What won't work is quitting.
Thoughtful, calculated perseverance is always the right answer.
===
165.6 lbs 12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 112 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
88/87/1 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HALF THE FREEDOM
WE KNOW where the 50% mark is on the course. The distance. The estimated time it takes to get there. The food we'll need to arrive and...
... finish with good energy.
But, is that enough?
Knowing vs doing,
totally different things.
The first half of 2026 is gone.
For some, it flew right by.
Others...
- bored
- unengaged
- beset by challenges
... had a different experience.
We are free to stay the course, or...
- 10x goals
- Committed mindset work
- Severing whatever is holding us back
... recalibrate and blow everyone's minds (ours included).
God, bless America.
===
Nowza good time to crack that journal open and document the amazing things we've accomplished to date.
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard
Let's rip!
===
164 lbs 12.6%
8ish hours sleep
530 anti-oxidant level
none today Upper Body: 60 push ups, 12 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 112 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
88/88/0 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GUITY AS CHARGED
THE EVIDENCE IS OVERWHELMING, there is no defense for the flagrant violations of society's norm...
... we've got a problem.
And, we don't care.
It's who we are...
- city limit sign? let's race
- KOM within reach? let's race
- event 700 miles away? let's race
... we're constantly on the lookout for our tribe.
We rarely watch sportsball,
we'll watch a TdF stage start to finish.
We do find comfort in the couch,
after an absurdly long day outside ripping.
We do devour ice cream and cookies,
but only when the calorie deficit is irredeamable.
We aren't normal...
... we're race junkies.
===
If that resonates,
you might want this shirt,
which I'm pretty sure we priced wrong at $20.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/race-junky-classic-t-shirt-fe
I'll fix the price after the holiday.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/race-junky-classic-t-shirt-fe
===
165 lbs 12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ today Upper Body: 60 push ups, 12 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 112 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
89/96/-7 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BROKE OR BROKEN?
IT'S AMAZING what we're willing to put up with. I suspect it's just in our nature and probably why...
... we thrive at the endurance game.
We tune it out.
And, here's the dill.
Pretending things aren't the way they are...
... can be demoralizing.
Yesterday, I had my cracked front windshield replaced on the van.
It wasn't huge,
but it was slowly growing,
ever since our trip to Sea Otter.
Neighbor Rick came out to chat and asked me why I replaced it.
Honestly?
Yeah.
It was making me feel poor.
The thingaboutitis, if I'd had the rock chip fixed immediately...
... the cost would have been minimal.
Which begs the question...
... what are we allowing to languish and bring us (our performance) down?
===
166.4 lbs 12.4%
8ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
√ today Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 150 ATG air squats and 36 split squats with 50lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
90/104/-14 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MY EXCUSE FOR NOT BEING ON PEPTIDES
THE TEMPTATION to tap the pharmacy is getting realer every day. Call it the effects of the human genome project or clever marketing...
... lotsa people on the train.
I've been surprised.
Just in the last month or so, some of my much younger (30s and 40s) and generally healthy friends...
- trimmer
- slimmer
- sexier?
... have let me know their results from peptides.
They aren't athletes who compete,
just dudes wanting a better bod.
My response is always the same.
Dang...
... I can't do that because I'm a racer.
I know...
- the likelihood of getting tested is practically nil
- the evidence of peptides disappears quickly
- the help they deliver is real
... but, I'll know.
So I push on in the land of...
- working hard
- eating clean
- getting rest
... and I'm quite okay with that.
===
165.8 lbs
7 hours sleep
540 anti-oxidant level
not today Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
not today Lower Body: 150 ATG air squats and 36 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
90/104/-14 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
RIDE WITH YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOU WOULD RIDE WITH YOURSELF
EVERY NOW AND AGAIN we get an insight that touches our hearts and when we try and explain it to others they just don't get it. Not their fault. We just need an analogy...
... we can all relate to.
Try this one.
I'll do my best to share the change of heart I had recently...
- a homeless woman sitting on the corner of a busy sidewalk in front of a food court
- people, me included, waiting for the light to change
- ignoring her sad, red eyes like they didn't exist.
... it wasn't my finest moment.
We're all rich.
I'm on a stupidly expensive bike,
but no cash on me,
gazing ahead.
Ignoring the obvious hurt and loneliness.
I was ashamed...
... of my inability to see the once beautiful baby at my feet.
What would it have cost to acknowledge her?
And it hit my heart so hard...
... Love they neighbor as thyself.
Finally I got it,
and I'll do my best to share it with you.
If we really loved our neighbors as ourselves we might...
- be a little nicer, kinder more patient
- genuinely ask how they are, if they need a hand
- we might hold the bar a little lower or a little higher, out of love
... not the awkward, stumbling empathy that paralyzes us.
Genuine desire to help others as ourselves out knowing that...
- if we were raised differently
- made regrettable choices
- had terrible experiences
... but for the grace of God go I.
It reminds me of my good friend Todd Darley, a better Todd than I, who always rolls out with food.
One day we're ripping up Mulholland with a spicy group, gonna PR it...
... and Todd disappears.
Where'd you go?
Stopped to talk to the homeless hiker?
What?
Yeah, wanted to make sure he was okay. Gave him a bagel I had.
Last Saturday, a dude in a pick up with a trailer full of tools pulled up to me and Chad and flipped us the bird...
... I laughed and asked myself Now why would I do that? Having a bad day? PTSD from cyclists?
I'll never know that dude's literal problem...
... just hoping this change of heart stays with me forever.
===
165.4 lbs
8 hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 50 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
not today Lower Body: 150 ATG air squats and 36 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
88/91/-3 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IS THIS CODDLING?
WE'VE ALL HAD to face the unbearable hot situations. Sometimes in training, others in a race. But, that's the thing...
... we've all had to face them.
That's life.
So, when the geniuses at Velo led with Extreme Heat Could Force Radical Rethink of the Tour de France...
... I sighed.
Stop the coddling.
They're professionals.
Then Surfergirl chimed in...
- 2013 Tour of California
- 4pm finish
- 114º
... But, remember Palms Springs.
We started early and rode the stage ahead of the pros.
Dropping down into the desert floor was like riding into a giant hair dryer.
Oppressive and awful.
My son and I staggered into a 7-11 and chugged giant Slurpees...
... finally lowering our body temps to be able to ride to the finish.
The pros came in and literally collapsed on the sizzling black and gooey tarmac.
She had a point.
It was horrific.
After wading through the Velo clickbait I discovered the "radical rethink" just meant considering starting the races at 9:30 vs the typical much later starts that finish in the hottest time of the afternoon.
You know the real tragedy isn't the coddling, it's that...
... I won't be able to go for an early spin and watch the race finish live.
I'm sure I'll find a "radical rethink" of my entertainment consumption.
===
163.4 lbs
9 hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 150 ATG air squats and 36 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
89/99/-10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of the Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MOVING THE COMFORT ZONE
IT CAN BE PERPLEXING to know a truth from personal experience, to share it because we care, and see it not be received...
... because it's scary.
Like ripping downhill.
I have a few friends who are training for a big event with me.
There will be a fair amount of climbing,
followed by a fair amount of descending.
None of it...
- steep double-track
- wide open hardpack
- a bit of chunky rocky stuff
... will give most mountain bikers any trouble.
Unless we're racing,
really going for it.
Even then, most will be fine...
... but, they could be so much better.
And here's the headscratcher...
... I can't get them to ride much harder trails in preparation.
They protest,
avoid,
skip.
Because I'm absolutely failing to ride home the point that learning to rip more challenging trails now...
- steeper
- chunkier
- twistier and slicker
... will move the comfort zone.
Moving the comfort zone means we are...
- more efficient
- relaxed
- calm
... saving all kinds of physical and emotional energy.
While others bog down with Oh shift! moments, we can turn those sections into...
- recovery
- relaxation
- moments of bliss
... something to look forward to, and potentially gain/make up time.
If we're into that.
I am.
You?
(Where else are we too fraidy catty to move the comfort zone?)
===
163.6 lbs
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
none Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
91/114/-23 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all kinds of marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BUT, DOES HE REALLY CARE (NOW)?
ON RACEDAY it's fair to say nothing else matters but the race. The training, the fine-tuning, the sacrifices...
... they're all coming together.
We need to rip.
But, when it's all said and done...
... should anybody, ourselves included, really care?
Take a dude I heard about...
- inspired and helped millions of cancer patients to believe they had a chance
- single-handedly lifted a dying sport getting legions to pedal
- operator of a massively popular podcast
- successful investor and businessman
- father of five children
... does he really care that he's not recognized as winning 7 TdFs?
For all you haters that are now triggered, the unsubscribe button is above and below.
For the open minded, contemplating our own mortality and personal achievements...
- family
- race wins
- inspiring and helping others
... what would you prefer?
===
164 lbs
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
none Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
87/93/-6 per Strava
What I'm reading: Path of The Assassin, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard, all things marketing
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
INNOVATION THROUGH IGNORANCE
IGNORANCE AND IGNORANT are such ugly words. And don't even speak ignoramus. Referring to anybody with those words...
... is just plain mean spirited.
Ain't gonna make ya friends.
Yet, the truth is, many of personal innovations come from ideas...
- never heard of
- never thought of
- never been exposed to
... we were completely ignorant to.
Here are a few of mine...
- swimming to control breathing
- lift heavy, low reps
- sprints for power
... that have helped improve over the years.
The swimming one I came up with on my own when training for Leadville in the early days. I wanted to control my breathing and keep my breaths deep.
The lift heavy, low reps I learned from one of the great Phil Mafetone books. He only pioneered Zone 2 training coaching Mark Allen to become the most complete and dominating triathlete of his era.
Lift heavy, low reps was also heavily preached in the fascinating book Underground Secrets To Faster Running, by Barry Ross.
Sprints for power came from the awesome Fred Duncan, a premiere track coach.
The idea that we are born to be athletic and should treat our bodies as such came through loud and clear in Christopher McDougall's book Natural Born Heroes.
I could go on...
- crusty old curmudgeons calling me out
- lessons learned through experience
- defeats whose sting was wicked
... but that's not the point.
The point is we've got to continually expose ourselves to new ideas and concepts and experiences in order to...
... keep innovating and growing.
Spiritually. Mentally. Physically. Socially.
===
1664 lbs
8 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 75 push ups, 15 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
none today Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
88/102/-14 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE VISION BORED
VISION WHILE RACING isn't everything, but it's right up there with oxygen. We gotta breathe, we gotta see...
... to move forward.
I was thinking about that today while zipping down a twisty trail.
If I let my eyes start to focus on what's up close...
... my speed drops and I become much more reactive.
When I'm focused far ahead...
... I go much faster, slipping into a state of flow and things are magically easier.
The thing I was thinking about was my vision board.
Mulling over the things already accomplished, as well as what is in the works.
The vision board seems to work the same way...
... focusing on the outcome, not how I'm going to get there.
Some of you may be thinking Dude is nuts,
others nodding your heads That's right.
Either way, I'll leave you with this thought from King Salomon...
... Where there is no vision, the people perish.
===
166.2 lbs
8 hours sleep
620 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, shoulder press, curls
√ Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 70lbs, nordic curls, box jumps, heel and toe raises
89/108/-19 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: The works of Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TUCK AND ROLL!
AERO. The term is like a science fiction blob that oozes it's way into everything, eventually killing everything in sight and taking over the world...
... with no end of it's pervasiveness in site.
Can we escape the creepiness?
The thingaboutitis, once we go slip down the aero tube...
- positioning
- equipment
- apparel
... it's almost impossible to stop.
That list falls short of the whackiness...
- hands on the mtb fork crowns at Leadville
- hydration bladders stuffed in front of jersey
- dropper seat post for bombing road descents
... which actually works.
I was thinking about that this morning as I crested The Wall, about 15 seconds behind the leaders.
Pedaling till I was spun out...
- butt hooked on end of saddle
- hands next to the stem
- chin on the Wahoo
- elbows in
- knees in
... I assumed the position (I'm not a butt on seat tube believer).
Would I, could I catch before the bottom?
Being on my lessthanaero gravel bike...
- spun out with gravel gears
- rolling shallow depth road wheels
- rockin' a well ventilated KASK helmet
... I needed every aero advantage I could get.
After rolling up on the 3 in between the two leaders...
... we rotated, taking short and speedy pulls.
It took forever to catch,
all the way to the final curve.
I'm already thinking about next week...
- actual aero helmet
- clean shave on the legs, face, arms(?)
- and, yeah, gonna bust out the Speedsuit
... what else I can do to improve my aeroness.
On my previous road bike, I clocked 51 mph...
... today's set up shows 47.4 mph.
Tuesday can't some soon enough.
===
168 lbs
7 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 70lbs
89/113/-24 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CUI BONO?
THERE ARE A LOT OF DEALS that get cut on the race course. Some are obvious, some hidden. Many between competitors...
... for money, glory and pride.
The worst deal of all?
Well, that depends on Cui bono?...
... Who benefits?
Deals between competitors kindasuck, but...
- hang on for camera glory
- work to stay in break
- straight cash
... we can usually tell who benefits,
and who pays.
No, the most insidious deals...
- staying up late
- backing off the finishing sprint
- starting the new diet "tomorrow"
... are the ones we cut with ourselves.
Because nobody benefits,
'cepting our competitors.
===
167.4 (Happy Fatter's Day - sheesh!)
8 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 150 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 60lbs
85/90/-6 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MY INSANE CULT
FEW OF US HAVE BEEN TO AN AA MEETING, but we've seen TV/movie version many times. Hi, I'm Todd and...
... I'm an endurance junkie.
Hi Todd.
When we come clean with the general population, Today I...
- swam 10,000 yards
- rode for 5 hours
- ran 20 miles
... they think we're crazy.
We're not.
The adrenaline rush of ...
- 60 miles an hour in nothing but lycra
- the swimmers blue mind
- the runner's high
... we need that hit.
Regularly.
This risks we take...
- sending it down the mountain
- running along into the cold, dark night
- impossibly holding our breath one more length
... would freakout any life insurance company.
These sensations of pushing well beyond normal, reasonable, safe...
... are often all that's keeping us stable.
In all sincerity, because the allure of the lottery and dulling our senses with substances is so very tempting and tragically treacherous...
... stay dangerous my friends.
The sane kind.
===
164.6
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 60 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: `100 ATG air squats and 20 split squats with 60lbs
86/98/-12 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TODAY WAS A ROUGHIE
SOME BIG TRAINING DAYS are better than others. The reasons are myriad. Which means when it goes sideways...
... it's up to us to figure it out.
Like today.
I knew it was going to be a big day...
- 7 hrs
- 87 miles
- 10,500' of vert
... on Monday.
There are only 8 weeks to get our Leadville legs, and me and Let's Go need(ed) to do some simulation.
For me,
today,
I just never got comfortable.
Never felt that feeling of being on top of the pedals and...
... smoothly moving like a Singer sewing machine.
It was much more like a broke down pumpjack one might see in the hot and dusty oil fields of Bakersfield...
... in desperate need of lube and love.
Clunk.
Clunk.
Clunk.
I've narrowed it down to a few things...
- going too deep on Thursday after solid Tuesday and Wednesday
- rolling the gravel wheels vs road wheels on Friday's BRO ride
- hitting the legs with resistance Sunday-Thursday
... and I should know better.
I'm gonna add to that...
- probs too much tire pressure
- def hotter today than our last attempt
- carrying a third bottle to be safe on hydration
... some I can control, some I can't.
In the end, I think it really comes down to not being sufficiently recovered.
On a positive note, given the fatigue level...
... we averaged 12.7 mph with zero drafting over a similar profile to Leadville.
Not bad.
Not great.
But, we can work with that.
Oh, and I'm feeling quite extra speedy on the downhills.
Time for...
- In-N-Out burger, fries and shake
- some good sleep
- and a day off
... to set the pins up to be knocked down next week.
===
164.6
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 0 push ups, 0 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: `0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
89/113/-25 per Strava (someone's tired!)
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THAT TOPSECRET SECRET
THE IDEA OF A PUBLIC DECLARATION is not new. Lots of people have proclaimed they will accomplish X goal and gone on to do just that...
... because it works.
There is a hitch.
The haters,
the perceived haters,
hating the idea of haters.
There are plenty of famous athletes who have made the call and fallen flat on their face...
... sometimes by knockout.
Which is why most of keep our plans secret,
denying ourselves the power therein.
I'm onboard with that.
There is also power in keeping our intentions unknown.
Wherein lies another hitch.
If we're posting our stats with the Strava lords,
that might be considered a passive-aggressive statement.
Which begs the question...
... if we're keeping our mouths shut, do we keep our training private?
Personally, I'm open book on that, except for my top secret racing agenda which scrawled in code...
... on my vision board.
===
164.6
7iah hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 30 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: `0 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
83/84/1 per Strava
What I'm reading: Lions of Lucerne, Brad Thor
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IMAGINE THAT!
WHEN WE WERE CHILDREN, can ya even remember that?, we had tremendous imaginative powers. From games to friends to travel to faraway places...
... our lives were boundless.
What happened?
Did reality set in?
Did we set conditions on our dreams?
Did some kind old bag of wind tell us not to have our heads in the clouds?
The thingaboutitis...
... when we register for an event or race, all bets are off.
We've already imagined...
- the trainging
- the equipement
- the travel and accomodations
... to start.
More importantly, if we're really on our A game, and you and I are!...
... we can see the finish line, and exactly how we'll be at that moment.
Which isn't child's play.
It's actually...
- life
- business
- relationships
... how doers get it done!
As I'm writing this I'm reminded of the gloves I wore today...
and the shirt I'm wearing right now
This is gonna be a total marketing faux pas because we're neverever supposed to make too many offers, but...
... I imagine more than a few of you will want this reminder to Rip!
Order the Gloves, get the Shirt for FREE.
Use this code: LET'SRIP
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lets-rip-buy-t-get-gloves-for-free
===
162.6
8 hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 30 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 30 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
85/91/-7 per Strava
What I'm reading: 7 Powers, The Foundations of Business Strategy, Hamilton Helmer
What I'm studying: Imagination, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
EMBRACING THE BURN, DAILY/OFTEN
WE'VE ALL FELT THE BURN. Some of us love it, some of us hate it. No matter where we are on the spectrum...
... the burn is coming for us.
Is it minimizable?
Maybe.
If yesterday is any indicator, I may have stumbled upon something.
For the last few weeks, I've been steadily increasing my ATG air squats.
From reps of 10 to reps of 30.
If you haven't done them lately, or ever...
- standing
- to full "ass to grass"
- to standing
... it's quite a shock to learn our trusty bottom half may not be as durable as we think.
When I started 10 burned,
then 20 really burned...
... the last 5 of 30 were a massive struggle.
Back to yesterday's hammerfest, when the burn came on it was like my body saying...
... Oh, we're gonna burn now. Buckle up buttercup, I've got this.
Rather than pulling the plug at the onset of burn, I embraced it and powered on.
Best I've felt in weeks/months.
Now, I'll be the first to admit it could just be that I was supertapered going into last weekend's BWR UT and I might just be having a good response to the taper followed by the 3.5 hours of racing across the high desert.
But, even if that's the case...
... the burn of 30 ATGs feels so good.
Gonna keep upping it,
apparently 100 is a thing.
(yes, on top of split squats and probably bringing back box jumps)
===
165.2
8 hours sleep
480 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 90 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 90 ATG air squats and 18 split squats with 50lbs
85/96/-12 per Strava
What I'm reading: 7 Powers, The Foundations of Business Strategy, Hamilton Helmer
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I CAN'T BELIEVE SHE TOOK ME BACK
IT'S REALLY HARD TO LET GO of something we love. The fear we won't get it back is legit. Yet, the opportunity of enjoying something new...
... is real, and tantalizing.
The known vs the unknown.
Once we move on, that thing we left behind might...
- forget about us
- reject our return
- change and move on
... it's risky.
No, Surfergirl didn't leave me or vice versa.
But!...
... I did leave my beloved TMWC (Tuesday Morning World Championships) for another ride: Wednesday Worlds.
The main reason, and it's very valid, waking up at 5am and rolling out in the cold, dark, pre-dawn was leaving me almost worthless for work the rest of the day.
The lesser reason, I was thinking the blazing intensity of WW would be a better work out.
Well, a funny thing happened when a downloaded the Tuesday vs WW data...
- significantly more time above threshold and VO2 max
- much higher average and normalized power
- and, the best, all my pals were there
... to smack me in the face!
For sure, it helped that the sun was up when I rolled out.
And, I was putting down power on the road vs battling dust, rocks and terrain.
The fellas were all welcoming...
... probably because they knew they'd dump me up The Wall and send me home with a good lycra whipping.
Gawd, I've missed this ride and these awesome cats.
===
165.2
7 hours sleep
480 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 30 push ups, 10 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 30 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
84/83/-9 per Strava
What I'm reading: 7 Powers, The Foundations of Business Strategy, Hamilton Helmer
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GIVE ME 10 WEEKS
HOW LONG DOES IT REALLY TAKE to get into top shape for an A race is a question we'd all like answered. For an Olympian, it might be years. For us...
... we might have a few months.
Or less.
Depending on when we sign up, and the vagaries of life.
But, let's just say we are fitter than most,
not as fit as some.
Then our focus will be...
- long climbs or power climbs
- slogs into the wind or a million turns
- finishing in ones and two or a ripping bunch sprint
... more on race specific training.
Given a good baseline of fitness, my general rule is...
- our bodies
- our equipment
- our travel and logistics
... it takes 10 weeks to really sharpen the saw.
For me, aiming for Leadville on 8.15.26, I've got time...
... but, no time to waste.
And, so it begins.
===
164.6
8 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level,
√ Upper Body: 60 push ups, 30 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 60 ATG air squats and 0 split squats with 50lbs
81/72/9 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: The Search, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE PREPARATION/EXPECTATION EQUATION
DECONSTRUCTING OUR RECENT PERFORMANCE is critical for improvement. The longer we wait, the foggier our recollection. Details we were sure of...
... become memories full of bias.
It's natural.
Who wants to remember what went wrong, when we can glory in all that went right?
Other than screwing up yet another sprint for the line, nothing really went sideways for me at BWR UT.
And, if I'm being honest, Billy tested my legs on the overpass coming into to town. Whether or not he knew it, and I stayed glued through the the pain...
... I was hurting.
There are a few things that went really right...
- The chef's pasta the night before at Chef Alfredo's, with Danny and Lisa, was delish and just what I needed.
- The AirBNB I found at the last minute - a 3-bedroom house was perfect and the beds wonderful.
- The 8:30 start was a little too late to skip breakfast, so I went with my gut and mowed down a couple of chocolate Entenmann's donuts, half an apple, and a couple of cups of my trusty mushroom hot chocolate.
- I picked up Skratch Super High Carb and ran 6 scoops in my 2-liter pack and another 3 in one bottle.
- To stay ahead of cramps, I ate a Salt Stick chews.
- For the bike set up,
- Ceramic Speed chain held up really well to all the dust, even after getting doused with cold water by Smitty at the final aid station.
- The tire pressure was pretty low, 22lbs in back 20lbs up front. I rimmed out a few times over the random chunky stuff while in a paceline. That's always risky. But, I also felt like I was much more comfortable than other competitors who dropped off the group over time.
... the last was mindset.
Preparation vs Expectation.
I came in pretty rested having spend the previous 2 weeks on my MTB in Park City.
Because of the altitude, it was difficult to put in hard efforts of any meaningful time. Hours in the saddle were solid, but even a lot of that was spent ripping down hill.
I'd give me preparation a B, which was fine for a B race.
Knowing that, my expectations were quite low.
Here's the point...
... poor preparation with high expectations is a formula for frustration and a crummy day on course.
Whereas...
... awesome preparation with low expectations always makes for a fun race and often surprising outcomes.
===
163.6
7.5 hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level,
√ Upper Body: 100 push ups, 20 pull ups, hand gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 70 ATG air squats and 18 split squats with 50lbs
82/74/7 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO ABOUT IT?
IF THINGS AREN'T ENDING UP as we'd like them to, the obvious thing to do would be dong something different. But, that can be a hard pill to swallow because...
... we're comfy and don't wanna change.
Hope isn't a strategy.
Or, a tactic.
So, even though I was hoping I'd be able to fend off the change with a few hundred meters to go at BWR UT, the mofo I'd been working with for the last 30 miles...
... stuck a shiv in my back.
There was nothing I could do.
Had no answer.
Surfergirl, bless her little beating heart, could see I was frustrated with myself and...
... accidentally twisted the buried blade.
What are you going to do about it?
I think it was an innocent, honest, loving, caring question due to the fact that she's seen me frustrated with something...
... then, draw up a solution and make it happen.
Truthfully, does it really matter if close out a racing effort by taking some cat on the line who I may never see again?
Not even.
What matters, to me, is that I execute the plan.
In this case...
... having something left at the end, to rip a fast finish.
The kool kids call that durability.
I call it having your shift together when it counts, which means I'll be needing to...
... wrap up long rides with sprints that sting.
===
164ish no scale
7.5 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/86/-3 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE YOU EXCITED FOR THE RACE TOMORROW?
THE NIGHT BEFORE any race is not a normal night. No matter how practiced we are there's always something different to our routine. Sometimes...
... we just make it up.
Why not?
It might work,
or not.
Surfergirl keeps asking me are you excited?
I wanna say yes,
and I know I will be tomorrow...
... about a millisecond after we start.
Until then,
my energy tends to be low.
Not depressed low.
Hybernation low.
Lethargic.
Slothy.
Trying to amp me up, she asks...
... have you looked at reg to see who's going to be there?
That's the kind of thing that...
- if I glanced at it now
- the night before the race
- when I'm trying to chill and sleep early
... would def keep me up and tossing and turning.
No, that's not my agenda.
I prefer to...
- lose all hope
- ditch all desire
- punt all pretense
... and shut 'er down with my favorite pint.
===
164ish no scale
8.5 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
81/70/11 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
NOSTALGIA
WE ALL STARTED this endurance journey somewhere, likely not where we are today. Introduced by a friend, sometimes on purpose, others inadvertently. While we may change locales, and the friends become distanced…
… we’re still here.
In the game.
We may have the opportunity to go back to where it all started.
For me, it was…
- my roommate’s bike
- a finagled purchase of my own
- secrets of sprinting revealed by Bret, who raced track nationally for San Jose Bicycle Club
… in Provo, UT.
I rearranged my classes…
- to start as early as possible
- so I could ride every afternoon
- before cruising the library to cruise the cubicles in search of a “study” partner.
… because I had priorities to attend to.
Today I hit a climb I’d always wanted to check out, Cascade Springs, but it was a battered gravel road back in the day.
Now, it’s pristine pavement all the way up over 8000’
Followed by a plummeting descent that is as magical now as it was 40 years ago.
I’ve moved,
but, I never really moved on…
… and, I’m quite okay with that.
===
164ish no scale
8.5 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
81/68/12 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
What I'm studying: Prayer, Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE TRUE PRICE OF FREE ADVICE
A WHILE BACK, I connected with the COO of a well-known bike brand. We were working on a collaboration at the time. I asked him for some...
... advice on what we're doing over here.
Today, we met for lunch.
Looked at from now to the end of the year,
the objectives I want to accomplish,
what I think is possible.
No different than...
- capabilities
- weaknesses
- peak seasonal events
... planning the race season with a coach.
After some yummy tacos,
and back of napkin calculations...
... we came up with a solid methodology to implement.
Like any great coach,
my friend made it so simple to understand...
... and gave me the confidence to go for it.
I was prepared to pay a minimum of $1,000.
In the end it could be way more expensive than that...
... if I don't take action.
It could cost me 100s of 1000s.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/77/5 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ARE SUFFERING AND EPICCING TWO SIDES OF THE SAME COIN?
WE ALL KNOW that group workouts are torturous by nature. It's not a secret. Yet, we continue to show up beating after beating because...
... suffering loves company.
Alone, for most of us, is no good.
We won't see it through,
we'll ease up when we should be hardening up.
The bonds we end up forming are often unbreakable...
... we're in agony together.
Suddenly people who barely knew each other are fist bumping and ready for the next one.
What's the opposite bondforming experience?...
... when we're pushing geographic boundaries together.
Like today.
It wasn't the 90 minute climb topping out at 9160'.
Nope.
It was the 60 minutes of downhill...
- ripping through the trees
- sliding around gorgeous berms
- jumping rocks and roots and stumps
... feeling like we were cheating life.
Epiccing, like suffering, loves company.
We set off in search of adventures that will push beyond the comforts or riding around the block...
... the unknown and undiscovered beckoning to be shared.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/71/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
COOCOO FOR CLIMBING
IF WEIGHTED SQUATS are a lot better than air squats, is climbing a lot better than riding on the flats? And, if climbing is better...
... is climbing with a weighted vest mo' bettah?
Things one wonders.
And takes to extremes.
I remember backintheday, rolling out with 100oz hydration pack on my back and 2 large waterbottles filled with sand.
It seems so silly now,
almost as all the ruckers.
On a bike we can measure power.
So, we know.
We know we don't need to stress our backs with extra weight or stupid add ons...
... we can just pedal faster.
Velocity X Force - Power
Which taken a step further...
... climbing aint gonna train us any better than flats.
We gotta put out the power.
There is a caveat, if we like...
- climbing big mountains
- ripping punchy stuff
- pounding the flats
... our bodies will adapt and become more efficient at the one we love and gravitate towards.
Me personally?
I'm coocoo for climbing,
and bananas for bombing.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/63/17 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HEAR ME OUT
SOMETIMES IT'S JUST PLAIN FUN to make fun of Velo, "powered by Outisde". Whether it's their clickbaity titles, AI drivel, or soulselling advertorials...
... there's at least one good laugh a day.
Here's my current favorite.
Stop Complaining About Sound, These Are The Best Headphones for Cycling
Roight!
Because decreasing our ability to engage with our surroundings when traveling 20+ miles per hour in our underwear on...
- trails
- gravel
- pavement
... is a great idea.
Genius.
Next up...
... Stop Complaining About Night Vision, These Are The Best Sunglasses After Sunset.
There is no best.
At best, assuming it's not clickbait or advertorial would be...
... These Headphones Least Worsen Your Ability To React To Danger When Riding.
Or, for the trailrunners...
... These Earbuds Reduce Getting The Shift Scared Out of You When A Bike Rider Has Been Saying 'Hey There' For 5 Minutes and Finally Gives Up and Passes You.
Now for you in the back jumping up and down ready to tell me to not be so closeminded...
... I hear you.
===
164ish no scale
8 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/72/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
>
POP TART POWERED, BEE STUNG... ATHLETE unINTELLIGENCE
SOMETIMES, we just gotta change it up. Do something different just fer fun. Go against...
... conventional wisdom.
I thought it had been a good week...
- 177 miles
- 17:26 hours
- 20951' of vert
... given I'd been knocked down by a 24 hour bug.
Mostly in the dirt,
mostly with friends.
Yet, every single ride Strava's Athlete Intelligence...
... scored it as recovery or recovery and endurance.
Apparently, the AI couldn't account for the fact this sea leveler was suffering at 7000-10,000 elevation.
Rolling out this morning...
- a few scoops of Envy
- 4 pop tarts
- 1 Carbs gel
... I grabbed what I had + 100 ounces of water.
While I hoped to put down some power, since all I'd done was "recovery and endurance" rides...
... I knew the truth.
Leaving with a simple plan,
ride until I ran out of food and water.
It was an epic day in the mountains...
... topped off with a bee sting in the gut a few miles from home base.
Memorable.
===
164
9 hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/0 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE ADVENTURE
SOMETIMES, the road really is better than the inn. We realize that whatever we are aiming for may not be all that great, but...
... putting in the work gives outsized returns.
Gratitude blooms.
Like today.
My pal Charles charts out this loop...
- 32 miles
- 4700' of vert
- topping out at 10,000'
... which seems really cool.
Until we hit our first massive fallen tree and bushwhack around it.
Then, patches of snow,
too long to ride.
Followed Puke Hill.
The view...
- The Great Salt Lake to the west
- Park City to the East
- Not a soul around
... stunning.
Somehow the goals seem weak, lacking...
... when beauty abounds.
If we'll just stop to look.
===
165ish, no scale
7ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/72/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHEN TRAINING ISN'T ACCORDING TO PLAN
THE BEST LAID PLANS can go sideways for a variety of reasons. I'm not gonna list 'em since I don't want to poison your mind and have you...
... manifesting awfulness.
'Cause I'm questioning just that about myself.
Did I manifest...
- 3 days off at I Do Epic
- riding with friends short on time
- puking my guts out last night after a miserable 70 minute ride
... or, is it just life?
Doesn't matter too much,
except part of my GrandMasterRipOnRaceDay plan...
... was a massive training week this week to make up for last week
and leave me slightly buried for BWR next week.
I consulted AI all night...
- possibly caused by using pure table sugar on my rides
- hydration via room temp peppermint tea
- a few Tums
... while Surfergirl laughed at me and secured the remedy.
Arose after 10 hours, feeling a lot better.
Energy seems good enough to day...
... to meet up with the local slayers.
The prudent thing would be to skip the meet up,
spin at most, or sleep...
... a proper adjustment.
But, screw it...
... I've got plans, too.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/57/22 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
LET'S VACCINATE THOSE SUCKERS!
Jan 02, 2021
by TODD BROWN
WHAT A BUNCH OF SUCKERS... all those cats who are fired up to start new habits. I'm like the Grinch watching all the little Who's down in Whoville with their new gym clothes and new gear... maybe even a bike or two. They're spending this weekend hatching their plans for a fit and healthy 2021...
... go get 'em.
They have no chance.
None.
They gonna fail.
Big.
But not us.
Because we've got a superpwer to keep us on the straight and narrow. And, they know it. That's the part that drives me nuts... they know our superpower, even ask about.
Hey man, what's new?
Oh, you know working, family stuff and some bike riding.
Are you still racing?
Are you still breathing air?... yes, of course.
I'm only that sassy with my closest friends. But that's the gist.
They work out.
We work towards a goal, endlessly fascinated with what's possible.
They've got the Resolution Virus 21...
... we've got the vaccine.
- Find an event, virtual if that fills your tire. A distant date.
- Make it big as you dare.
- Get ready for it.
- Do it.
- Have fun.
- Learn from it.
- Make it lifestyle.
Let's go do some vaccinating!
If you're lucky enough to have some infected riders, be sure you prescribe the good stuff.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/do-epic-stuff
And we'll include the beanie of your choice... just remember to order the beanie
and use promo code: DOSOMETHINGEPIC
This offer ends Monday night... don't you dare ask me to extend it.
use promo code: DOSOMETHINGEPIC
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/do-epic-stuff
---
165.2
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4556672526
AS A RIDE ORGANIZER THERE IS ONE PHRASE I LOVE TO HEAR
Jan 01, 2021
by TODD BROWN
TODAY WE RODE TODDY'S NAUGHTY NEW YEAR'S RIDE. Named such because I liked the sound of it and I knew for sure NYE was going to be a massive calorie consumption the likes of which would require a helluva ride to work off. With any luck, someone would be hacked off that it was too long or too hard or too big. But that's not what turns me on...
... what turns me on starts off with my standard disclaimer
We leave on time,
bring our own food and gear,
know how to fix your bike and
find your way home.
... I like company on epic rides, I don't like babysitting.
Selfish... maybe?
I view it as looking out for the good of the group. Did we stop for Mark when his tire was losing air?.. yes, of course. One guy having one mishap is not a ride killer... but, stopping can quickly get out of hand. Ergo the mean and heartless disclaimer.
What turns me on even more is hearing...
I didn't even know half of those trails
... I'm a cruise director at heart.
The most local of locals snacked on delicious newtothem singletrack. Andy drove up from Oceanside and couldn't believe all the gravelness we have.
How did I accomplish such a feat of novelty?
It's part of one of my most top secretest of training secrets.
The one nobody believes in.
The one few are willing to do, ever.
Yeah, that one.
Do you do it?
Do you ever get on your bike and poke around the edges of town? Wander down unknown roads, alleys, trails, etc.
For some reason, many riders can't fathom the idea of riding nowhere for long periods of time.
Here's how to do it: Ride with absolutely no idea of where you're headed. Be hellbent on not doing the same old ride.
Here's when to do it: On the easy days, the recovery days and the long slow distance days.
Here's why to do it: Your body and mind need and crave rides like these.
Here's what do do when you find some good stuff: invite your friends to come join ya... have your own disclaimer... and a helluva day.
And after a day like that, I like to wear a beanie like this
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.
If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black. You chose.
Quantities are limited.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
166
Stretch n HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4551089377
DO YOU SMOKE AFTER SPRINTING?
Dec 31, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DIESEL, DO YOU SMOKE AFTER SPRINTING?
I dunno, I never checked.
Yea, that's an ode to the great Austin Powers when asked if he smoked after sex.
But, ya know it's the silly time of year when most of us write down all the things we want to get done in the coming year...
... neglecting to recognize all the wins we had this year.
My wins:
- First grandchild
- 32 years of marital hard times, challenges and beautiful bliss
- Kids are all wonderful adults
- PEDALindustries survived... for a business that is event driven there ain't been much a tailwind this year... so, yeah, proud of that.
- Launched another successful product, the Changing Poncho
- Launched the PEDALposse
- Starting to figure out promotion through contests
- Snagged a podium at my only road race
- Had a great trip to Cactus Cup and learned a lot
- Mission accomplished at Dirty 30
- Mentored Rocky from shipping to design to running production
- Launched a bike shop with Chris
- Had a chance to connect with 10s of 1000s of wonderful people like you via this blog.
Planned for wins next year?
Stay tuned...
... it's gonna be good.
Maybe even better than this...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
In case you do smoke after sprinting
use promo code: 21WINS
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
162.6
Sunset beach walk
8.2 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4545917334
THIS IS THE GROUP YOU'RE LOOKING FOR
Dec 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I WOKE UP THE OTHER DAY AND HAD A CHOICE TO MAKE: ride with the group where I was sure to be the fastest or ride with the group where everyone was getting faster. I'm always down for being challenged...
... but that's not why I chose the latter.
Getting faster doesn't necessarily mean every single ride is a veritable beatdown.
It's a mindset...
... and I really like people who are fascinated with getting faster for the sheer sake of discovering what's possible.
Yeah, I get thehellbeatoutofme a lot of the time. The rest of the riding I'm rubbing elbows (we ride that close) with really smart, dedicated athletes. Sharing all we know about riding faster.
Which group are you going to ride with next year?
Are you going to be the catalyst in your existing group?
Who are you going to invite to join you?
Will you be on a new set of ENVE™ Wheels? The contest ends tomorrow at midnight PST. Winner announced next week via blog.
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
After all we can do, it's nice to know we're rolling on the best equipment.
Enter here:
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
162.6
Stretch HyperVolt
7.75
https://www.strava.com/activities/4540911609
THE 3 WAYS I ACKNOWLEDGE OTHER RIDERS
Dec 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE DAY KEVIN AND WERE RIDING ALONG AND HAD THE DUMBEST CONVERSATION.
Why did you head up that guy?
Whadaya mean?
Well, you did the head up thing.
And...
Why not the head down thing?
I dunno. Does it matter?
We never resolved the proper head maneuver when acknowledging another rider. But, it stuck in my own head and really got my OCD going... to the point where I could hardly go for a ride without thinking about that conversation.
It went on for years.
This year I seem to have given it up, opting instead for the low flying peace sign. I picked that up riding my moto around town. It's the thing you'd never notice unless you were on a moto. If you pay attention you'll see moto riders flash the low peace sign as they ride by in opposite directions. It's a signal we know we're up to something awesome.
Which means if you see me riding along, you might get a peace sign.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace
Still one of my favorite kits.
The socks are pretty cool too.
Use this promo code: PEACEOUT
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/peace
---
165
Stretch HyperVolt
7.75 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4535529649
MY VERY PRECIOUS PRESENT
Dec 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS A NEVER ENDING CHORUS ENCOURAGING US TO LIVE IN THE PRESENT. But, which present?
The one when I'm doing intervals and time keeps draggin' on?
The one when I'm racing and time flies?
The effort is the same, maybe even harder when racing, but the sense of time is almost exact opposites of each other.
Why is that?
How are you going to approach 2021? Waiting for things to get better, holding out for normal...
.... the interval approach or the racing approach?
While you're thinking about that...
... think about how nice it is to have that brain of yours nicely covered on and off the bike this time of year.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
If you're in the PEDALposse we're shipping you this very sweet beanie - the graphite version.
If you're not... well for a mere $20, all in, we'll ship it one to ya... army green, navy, graphite or black. You chose.
Quantities are limited.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-beanie-available-in-4-colors-instock
---
163.6
Stretch HyperVolt
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4531436054
IS THERE ANY LUCK IN BICYCLE RACING?
Dec 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO THINGS I KNOW FOR SURE WHEN IT COMES TO BICYCLE RACING.
- Time = Speed
- More Racing = More Energy
We all know the first one by now. No one said it better than the great Eddie Merckx when prescribed piles of miles. If you want to go faster ride more.
The second one goes like this... the more you race the less energy you waste on nerves. The prep the night before, the drive over, the sign in, the warm up, the waiting on the start line... it all becomes routine, second nature. Which is why the cooler heads always perform best when it counts. They have more energy.
Which begs the question... is there any luck involved in bicycle racing?
Not much.
Not like puddle skimming golf shots, tipped football passes, or the like.
We don't depend on luck. We depend on hard work and properly maintained equipment.
But, then again... it would be darn fine to be lucky enough to win a set of ENVE™ Wheels.
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
After all we can do, it's nice to know we're rolling on the best equipment.
Enter here:
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
163.6
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4526441206
A RIDE BY ANY OTHER NAME
Dec 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
BILL SHAKESPEARE SAID IT BEST VIA JULIETTE, That which we call a ride by any other name would still be rad. It's great to take the time to properly name our rides. To find them later and to exercise our creativity are my top reasons...
... but, sometimes there's a sneakier reason.
The sneaky reason in today's ride name is to plant a seed in my mind and the minds of my friends that on New Year's Day we're gonna do something big. So I named the ride...
... Recon Toddy's Naught New Year's Ride.
By putting it out there early I'm committing myself to get out and ride on 1/1 as well pre-committing my friends todo the same.
Inserting Recon in the title might create some curiosity as to where I rode.
Changing my name to Toddy sounds playful, and enticing.
Using the adjective Naughty gives me leeway as the inviter to throw in a few unexpected sections.
Wrapping it up with New Year's Ride makes it sound official, commemorative... like the kind of ride you don't want to miss.
You might be asking yourself should you come?
Yes.
What kind of bike would work??
Gravel best... MTB workwill work fine... only the most talented would ride a road bike.
How long will it be?
Somewhere between 100k and 100mi, around 6000' of vertical... figure 6-7 hours.
Any sag?
Nope, but we will have a 24hr AM/PM on the route about 3 hours in.
What will the pace be like?
We'll be moving right along, and we will be chatting.
What if I have a mechanical?
The bigger the group the less likely we are to stop, bringing a buddy would be a good idea.
Is this a no drop ride?
Aren't they all?... don't get dropped.
Start time?
I'll announce the exact start time later, somewhere between 8 and 9 am.
Any other questions, drop me a note.
It'll be long enough to definitely want some Butt'r, and maybe some PR Lotion.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/lotions-for-speed-comfort-and-recovery
Use promo code TODDYSNAUGHTY
And save 30% on the 2nd item.
---
164.4
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4521964989
From the ride
BAD SANTA
Dec 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SANTA DONE BLOWED IT AGAIN... no new bike, not even a pair of bike socks. Instead, wrapped up addressed not just to me but Surfergirl as well, there was a gift that would leave me feeling like I needed to be in traction tonight...
... my butt hurts, my feet hurt and my knees are a tad tender.
What the heck was Santa thinking?
Tomorrow's gonna be miserable.
Why would he give me and Surfergirl a gift like this?
- We have to use muscles we never use by moving quickly side to side, rocketing forward and backward... and exploding upward of all things.
- Plus, we'll end up spending a lot more time together and socially with our non-cycling/surfing friends.
- To make it worse, there's always a winner and a loser. We're just gonna get a lot more competitive.
Who want's a gift like that?
I thought he would reward me for collaborating with him to make gifts for bike people...
... like this new Tour de France inspired bag we collaborated with Horton Collection.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-tour-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
Each panel of the bag features an authentic and historical picture I picked out for this bag. Just for you. It's truly one of a kind.
Check it out
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-tour-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
---
164.6
Stretch HyperVolt
6 hrs - I gotta stop staying up late with the kids
https://www.strava.com/activities/4517438824
SHINEY BIKEY THINGS
Dec 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
CHRISTMAS TIME... it always sneaks up on me. Somehow the jingles and bells don't really touch me until today, the 24th. Echos of Christmas past arrive. Tomorrow they will be much stronger. I'll arise and enjoy the only thing I've ever wanted...
... to be together with family.
Wherever you are, wherever you go I hope you'll be able to connect with those you hold most precious...
... and maybe you'll even wake up to some shiny bikey things.
Or, maybe you're like me and the family has long given up hope trying to find the right shiny bikey thing...
... in that case, you may want to treat yourself to a heckuva bell.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell?variant=31243876008068
They are perfect for those times you're slaying the trail and you want a nice polite way to say I'm here and I'm coming through.
Use promo code: SLAYBELLS
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bike-parts/products/knog-oi-bike-bell?variant=31243876008068
---
165 (I hope I get some willpower for Christmas)
Stretch HyperVolt
7.5 hrs - kids are home
https://www.strava.com/activities/4513469100
IF I HAD A MILLION DOLLARS...
Dec 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT USED TO BE SOMETHING TO BE A MILLIONAIRE, it's still something to be a million foot climber. This time of year we get to see all the coolclimbingkids humblebrag about their achievements. And, well, I don't know about you...
... but I think that is totally cool.
Mainly because I've never done it. Nor do I think I could.
I'm typically 600,000-700,000'. About 12,000' per week. This year I'll wind up close to 750,000'. 15,000' per week.
Which is a lot.
My Florida pals are lucky to get 30,000' in a year. Did you ever notice that? Look one of them up... their climbs are overpasses, and the occasional trip where the get some real climbing in.
The Everest in 7 days challenge I did for myself was plenty hard. I was tuckered out the following week.
1,000,000'... one millllyun feet.. is out of my question, especially when I break it down. Then all possibility escapes me.
52 weeks would be 20,000' per week. Which I have completed plenty of times. But not 52 times in a row!
20,000' per week would be 4000' per ride because I ride about 5 days a week. Again, done it plenty of times. But not every single ride.
How do those millionfootaires get it done?
Do they simply have the right stuff?
Genetics
Terrain
Time
Can us mere mortals join their coolclimbingkid club?
One thing that would sure help is a superduper featherweight set of ENVE™ Wheels.
Which you could win, if you enter the contest.
And you could get double the entries on any tshirt you purchase between now and December 31st at mid-night.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
Here are a few of the choices
One thing you may not know about yours Diesel is I started off in the tshirt business and I've probably printed well over 1,000,000 tshirts at this point.
That's not important.
What's important is super soft cotton we use and special inks you can't feel. Chech 'em out:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
---
164.6
Diesel Strong
6 hrs - kids are home
no ride
HOW I'M COPING WITH N-2
Dec 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE IS A FANCIFUL IDEA THAT WE SHOULD ALL OWN N+1 BIKES, where N is the number of bikes we currently own. Whether or not that is true, or even healthy, I'm not sure. But, I am sure I am operating on N-2 at the moment...
... and it's going better than expected.
It started out as N-1 when I sold my very trustworthy road racer, AKA The Marvel. This aluminum frame, dressed in e-tap and shod with ENVE was a sprinter's dream. I sold it because a new road racer in the works...
... if only I didn't have to wait for a few key SRAM parts.
Then, I was adjusting the rebound on my MTB and the screw snapped right off in my fingers. Fox says send it back bub, you'll never fix it on your own...
... if only I didn't have to wait for Fox to receive, repair and return my fork.
Which leaves with the gravel bike for snappy road rides like today, MTB rides like tomorrow, and recovery rides like Friday.
Here's what I've learned:
- It's great for gravel.
- It's just fine on the road if I max the air pressure to 55lbs... but if it's a fast group ride it's feels a heckuvalot like I'm on the front for the entire ride.
- It's great offroad when I drop the pressure to 30lbs... but if it's super rocky gets to be too much after while.
To answer the several thousand dollar question Could I survive on one bike?
Yes, for sure. I'm getting stronger on the road, because it's harder. I'm picking cleaner lines when I ride it like a mountain bike because no suspension. Plus, it's a heckuva gravel bike.
It's definitely a jack of all trades, master of fun.
Speaking of jack of all trades, one thing I love about these gloves is that the work perfectly for road, gravel and MTB.
Just like the socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
And right now you can buy the gloves and get the socks free.
Use promo code: BuyGlovesGetSocks
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
---
164
Stretch
7 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4504896704
CAN'T HURT ME!
Dec 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DAVID GOGGINS, THE ULTRA-RUNNER/NAVY SEAL/ARMY RANGER/AIR FORCE RECON/PULL UP RECORD HOLDER/ALL AROUND BADASS says he stretches for 2 hours every evening to undo all the damage he's put his body through. I'm not that crazy...
... but my routine ain't nothing.
I think about him, well his book Can't Hurt Me, a lot... especially when I'm not feeling it, and other times when I'm feeling my own aches.
My basic end of day routine:
1 min plank
1 min weird back thing I learned
1 min side plank
1 min superman
1 min other side plank
5-10 minutes stretching
10 minutes HyperVolt
I'm beginning with the end because... well, it's the end of the day.
Most mornings I ride, then force myself to do:
10 pull ups
30 push ups
I never enjoy those pull ups and push ups. Never. But, when I'm done I'm pumped!
Other mornings I jam though 2-4 runs of Diesel Strong:
Jumping Jacks
Jump up the stairs 3 at a time
Max pull ups
Weighted Burpess
Curls
Squats
Deadlifts
These 7 moves I do every Wednesday... and some Mondays and Fridays, if I have time.
It's good to be strong and flexible.
Good for the bike riding...
... and good just in case your better half wants you to load 1000 lbs of blankets into the van... which I did in just under 45 minutes.
Maybe you're like me... I'm always counting how many reps I've done.
Or maybe you're the count down type...
... like we're counting 10 more days to get entered into the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
Have you entered?
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
163
Diesel Strong
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4502289622
SHUT YOUR MOUTH... AND BREATHE LIKE AN ATHLETE
Dec 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
NO MATTER WHAT YOU EAT, HOW MANY HOURS YOUR RIDE, HOW MUCH YOU WEIGH... none of it matters if you're not breathing properly. Lured in with a blurb like that I purchased Breath - The New Science of a Lost Art on the spot...
... and read it in a day.
Things I've experienced over the years started making sense, and I can't wait to get out and try a new way to train tomorrow.
For example, I've always been fascinated by my ability to quickly drop my heart rate from 50s to 30s just by changing the way I breathe, but never known what it meant or what it could be used for...
... I got a hint with this book.
Or... why do we wheeze after a really hard ride and feel asthmatic? Or worse Covidish? Got an answer to that, too...
... and what to do about it.
Fast forward 20 years and my oldest Trevor is taking cycling seriously. His coach tells him to train breathing only through his nose. His rapid progress from a 5 to a 2 in one year was astounding.
Was it the breathing technique?
Who knows... all I can tell you is I tried to breathe like that and failed.
However, I'm reinvigorated to give it a whirl after reading Breath all day today because of statements like this:
Breathing less offered huge benefits. If athletes kept at it for several weeks, their muscles adapted to more lactate accumulation, which allowed their bodies to pull more energy during heavy states of heavy aerobic stress, and as a result, train harder and longer.
Is the book worth reading? Definitely. It's a fascinating journey, well told and easy to understand.
Too anecdotal? Maybe, but I didn't care. And I bet you won't either... there are a lot of easy to incorporate techniques, starting with shutting your mouth.
That said, if you're out on a ride you're eventually gonna need to open that mouth for some nutrition.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger
Looking for a great stocking stuffer?
These taste great and ship free... and will get you a lot of entries in the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger
---
163
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4497817143
RETURN OF THE ROCKET MAN
Dec 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I PACKED MY BAGS LAST NIGHT PRE-FLIGHT, ZERO HOUR 8AM. The idea was to meet up with the fellas and leisurely stroll up the wash 20 miles then do the 9 mile climb up one of my faves. 90% dirt. 2 on gravel bikes, one MTB...
... but is an 80 mile ride with 9000' of vert ever really leisurely?
Two and a half hours in we were at the base of the climb. TBH, I was fine skipping it... and I doubt it would have taken much convincin' to scrap the plan and grab some donuts.
Funny how we can lean on each other and do crazy shtuff. Who the heck rides gravel bikes up a 9 mile rugged dirt road? People like us... you and me. As long as someone else is willing, it's on.
We were already behind schedule and we weren't about to busts any PRs on the way up.
But, it gave us time to chat.
I've ridden with Charlie for at least 15 years... but today, spinning along, we shared all kinds of new things about our lives. Just another reason to love on this sport of ours.
Then the conversation got serious.
Hey man, maybe we should turn around early.
No way.
I think I'm good.
It's right there! See, we'll be at the top in no time.
We made it.
Tired and salty.
I thought we'd be way, way, way, way, way off the pace. It wasn't a fast time, but it was respectable. Surprisingly.
We had a snack. I polished off my water.
To say I love this descent would be an understatement... I get a big smile and shove off.
Rocket Man comes into my head.
I think it's because being in the gravel position...
hands in the drops
flying over water bars
ripping at nearly 30 mph
over marble-sized rocks on hard pack
... it feels awesome, like I'm flying...
... burning the fuse alone...
... a 9 mile descent even at this speed...
...it's gonna be a long, long time to touchdown.
I almost forgot to tell ya... this is the inspiration for the KOM jacket. I developed specifically for this climb. Many times we are pressing hard for a good time or to test fitness.
It's not the kind of place to carry heavy clothes.
But, coming down can be cold as hell.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black
Fold it into it's own pocket and slide into your jersey pocket.
We use a very lightweight membrane fabric.
Wind stopping and water resistance are remarkable.
Plus, the fabric is stretchy so we cut the jacket to be aero... modern rocket men don't need parachutes.
Check it out: https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black
Side note... I find myself using a vest and arm warmers less and less. The jacket folds up smaller, and is just as warm.
---
163
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs
https://www.strava.com/activities/4493328035
I HATE TO BRAKE IT TO YA
Dec 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE ONLY I PERSON I EVER MET THAT SWEARS HE KNOWS HOW TO BRAKE IS SUPERDAVE. If you don't know SuperDave he used to be a hitter at FELT until he got called up to the big leagues at Specialized... not that that is any indicator of his braking ability. But, if you ever see his sizable mucsulus quadriceps or his blistering breakaway you might say...
... Do tell, how to brake.
For me, it came up when he was setting up 3T America a couple of years ago. We were both bragging about how awesome we are while ignoring each other when he caught my ear.
You can borrow this bike I've been riding, but the front brake pads are really worn.
Won't be a problem.
I didn't think it would, you look like a back brake first kinda guy.
Aside from that hurting, and his skill estimating ability being slightly off, he had a helluva point.
Most riders, probs you newguygalpersonhuman, are riding around with smoked rear brake pads and pristine fronts.
Why?
Because most riders were raised by parents screaming...
Don't touch the front brake you'll kill yourself!
... consequently, most riders have that nagging bit of self-doubt banging around their helmets. Yes, it sucks. But, it's real.
--> unrequested parenting advice: our minds can't see negatives. Tell your kids and loved ones what you want them to do, they're going to visualize and act on whatever you say. Tell a kid Don't run into the street and what do they do? I could/should write a book on that. <--
... back to making good braking habits.
Try this at home, at your own peril... this is only one Old Diesel's opinion:
- Apply your front brake liberally, it is 70% more powerful than the rear - or something like that. You can really lay on it hard when traveling in a straight line.
- In turns, I'm pretty even on the brakes... unless I want to slide the rear for quicker directional change, then that rear is locked up.
- Make it a goal to wear the front and rear pads out equally.
That could be free advice worth more than you paid...
... speaking of paying.
You're not still using one of these are you?
When you could be using one of these...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
In the off chance you're looking for an extremely svelte wallet to hold a few cards and a couple of Benjamins... a wallet that will never, ever in a million years fall out of your jersey pocket...
... you can have this favorite o' mine - well a brand new one - for a mere 20 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-wallet
---
163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep too excited to get back to Santa's workshop
https://www.strava.com/activities/4487786229
RIDE IT FORWARD
Dec 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY, LOANED YOU A BIKE. Different from the bike you might have received as a child, this was an adult bike. You rode it, just like I did, and fell in love again...
... because someone paid it forward.
I've been paying/riding it on down the roads and trails ever since my roommate Talley loaned him his "10 speed". He brought one back to school one weekend... within a week I had a ride of my own. Best senior year ever.
Sound familiar?
Do you remember who gave you the nudge?
Still riding together?
My latest convert/victim is my grandson's grandfather.
Hey Todd, what's it like riding a gravel bike?
I've got one you can borrow. I'll bring it over and we can ride around.
Can't get much more innocent than that, can ya? A simple Check it out is so effective.
Which one should I get?
The answer is always the same...
The best you one you can swing and still sleep at night... even though you won't sleep the first few nights because you'll be so excited to ride the next day.
He chose this one: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
But, the best part is when he picked it up today he dropped his brother's old bike to be serviced and made ridable.
We might have a real zealot in our midst... and I'm totally down for that.
How many have you encouraged to check it out this year? I'm guessing a lot.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles/products/urs-01-three
... I might even have a promo code for ya. Hit me up.
---
163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4483765938
THE YEAR IN PRE-VIEW
Dec 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
LOOKING BACKWARDS WHILE RIDING A BIKE IS ALWAYS TRICKY. A little swerve, a missed sharp object... so many chances for things to go wrong. Looking forward is so much more fun, safe and profitable...
... which is what I like to do this time of year, start planning out next year.
Figure the big family events.
Scan the cycling calendars
- USACycling for Nationals
- Epic Rides
- Leadville
- SoCal Cycling
- NCNCA
- AZCyclng
- Cycling Utah
- SoCal Endurance
- TeamBigBear
- LoToJa
- Cascade Cycling Classic
- ... basically everything within a day's drive.
Then the major work projects.
That's the big stuff and it goes on the calendar in that order: Family, Races/Adventures, Work.
There's monthly and weekly and daily planning. But, getting the big stuff right matters more. For me.
Speaking of getting stuff right, wouldn't winning the ENVE™ Wheels be awesome?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
Buy any t-shirt between now and 12/31 and you'll be automatically entered in the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway... and the t-shirt purchase will get you double the entries you'd normally get.
Best of luck!
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/tshirts
---
164
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4481657645
DECEMBER HERO OR ZERO?
Dec 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S HALFWAY THROUGH DECEMBER, just in time to send out this public service announcement. December heroes always morph into race season zeroes. Lest you think I'm calling you out...
... I'm not.
Well, I might be if you are:
- Exhausted after your ride
- Wincing as you go up or down stairs
- Loathing your next bike sesh
- Setting KOMs on routes already ridden by a thousand others
- etc...
... it's a long list, and glancing over it I might be a bit guilty myself.
Which is why I will once again renew my dues with Riders For A Sensible Pace. This completely fake group, should exist. There should be an intervention for dummies like me.
Let me give you an example of such idiocy...
... a public service announcement went out to our cozy little social ride last night that said something like...
Let's merge the A and B rides so we can all ride slow together until March.
I didn't think it would go well, but hoped it would.
As one of the tribe elders, I arrived early and proceeded to pontificate on the virtues of riding together.
There was a long, stoic silence...
... followed by hooting and hollering, Yeah... right. We don't trust you guys!
Off they went.
Leaving me, on my gravel bike, to fend for myself amongst the hungry A lions.
We're gonna go easy right fellas?... set a good example so the B's believe our earnestness and solidarity in commitment to winter base miles?
An Of Course Old Diesel carol, warmed my Christmas heart. I would survive and have many more social paced rides this winter. Today would be a new beginning, and new era for the Tuesday Morning World Champions.
Alas, there are no gifts in cycling... especially within 12 days of Christmas.
None at all.
It was blistering from the get go, and I was rudely ejected on the second to last climb... aka The Wall.
On a related note, Bob P stopped by today and introduced himself.
I'm Bob, we met on Creek To Peak a few years ago. I've been reading your blog ever since.
That's awesome. Thanks man.
Sure... I'm here to get my wife a Christmas present.
Lucky lady.
Not for her, for her to give to me.
Which reminded me I could give myself a gift, too... Ya know Diesel, you could just roll over at 5am next week and do your own easy ride a little later...
... but we all know I need my weekly lashings, offseason or not.
Which reminds to remind you that socks and gloves make great stocking stuffers.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones for the gloves and the socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
While supplies last.
---
163.6
Stretch and HyperVold
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4475883860
IN A METRIC HEATBEAT
Dec 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE P.A. ASSIGNED FOR MY PHYSICAL WAS A LITTLE KOOKY. It wasn't that he was getting on in years or that his thick Boston accent was challenging to decipher. It was the question he posed about my heart...
Wow... whadaya got there... one a them metric hearts, eh?
What?
Yeah, sounds like ya got one a them metric hearts.
What are you talking about?
You know, metric. Most people come in here beating 60, 70, 80 times a minute. You. In the forties. Metric.
How is that metric?
Metric, you know 100 miles equals 60 of them metric thingies. Kill-oh-meters. Metric!
Yeah, sure, I have a metric heart.
Poor old feller, I didn't have the metric heart to set him straight on the kilometers vs miles.
But, I do have the heart to remind you to ride... even if you have to ride in the dark like I did tonight.
Just be lit up. Like a Christmas tree.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
I've been running these lights this fall. Really like 'em. 1000 lumens on the front, and the rear has a pattern to help cars judge distance.
Use promo code: METRICHEART
It'll save ya big buck$ on any of our lights.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
---
164.6
PushUps/PullUps/Shoulders
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4473498383
ELON MUSK LAUNCHES BICYCLE COMPANY
Dec 13, 2020
by TODD BROWN
TECH GENIUS AND GAZILLIONAIRE ELON MUSK ANNOUNCES HUMAN POWERED BICYCLE PROJECT. Musk, who's Tesla Inc. has embarrassed the automobile industry by becoming more valuable than all other makers combined, has decided to turn his all seeing eyes to the future of humanity.
Stating he is bored by his Boring Company which is boring tunnels to create the Hyperloops meant to revolutionize earthbound travel, he claims he has a fresh approach to human powered travel.
Asked if this new vision has anything to do with his SpaceX company's colonization of Mars, the legendary visionary only gave a hint of what will surely decimate another industry by bringing humanity forward in a single pedal stroke.
In an exclusive interview, our real life Tony Stark came clean.
We are creating a bicycle that will be powered solely by humans. No motor.
Really?
Yes, the idea is to have a tool that engages all the senses, delivers immense pleasure, can be enjoyed alone or with a group. There will only be an outside version, to enjoy nature's beauty. The results in testing are truly astounding.
How so?
You see by removing the motors and making the activity only accessible out of doors we have data showing massive increases in mental, social and physical health.
This sounds exciting.
Oh, it's changed my life. It will change yours, and everybody you know.
Do you have a name for this new business.
Absolutely. LegGevity
There you have it folks. Stay tuned. A better world awaits us all, a human powered outdoor experience...
... coming to a planet near you.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/leggevity
If you know Elon, let him know we've got a dealio for him.
Use promo code: PRsRULE
When you purchase a bottle of PR Lotion and a PRs rule tshirt, the tshirt will be free.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/leggevity
---
165.6
HyperVolt and Stretch
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4468950643
LET'S GRAVEL ON...
Dec 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I WROTE THIS PITHY POST ONCE ABOUT DRESSING FOR THE RIDE, NOT THE ROLLOUT. The idea is we should dress appropriately for once things are heating up on the ride. Days like today, when I really take it to heart and roll out in the low 40s with high humidity...
... everybody's in parkas, I'm in jersey and bibs.
Commando in pajamas ain't exactly warm.
I was cold. But, I didn't care.
All I could think of was riding North and finding this singletrack that snakes up and through the neighborhoods to the top of Newport Coast. I'd ridden it once a couple of years back. Even though it would take an hour to get there, the idea of finding that trail and climbing it warmed my heart.
Eventually it did warm up and I was perfectly dressed for scouting out a new, awesome gravel route. I even managed to include my favorite general store... possibly the last one still operating in the county.
There's a lot of energy behind the gravel bike movement. I'm not sure where it's headed... which is exactly what makes gravel riding so run. I'm never sure where I'm going to go, but it always turns out to be a lot of fun.
Because it wasn't fffffffffreezing, I was just in superlight gloves and race socks. For that reason, I present thee with a special offer.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones for the gloves and the socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
While supplies last
---
162.6
HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4464328944
YOU ARE WHAT YOU RIDE
Dec 12, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAVE A OPTIONS TOMORROW... The Thug Ride, The Dirty Ol' Bastard. If it's true you are what you ride... well, I might skip those... and it is true, but it's also true attacks and climbs may break my mind but names will never hurt me...
... which ride to do this fine winter's day?
One of the more amusing conversations I have with riders who aren't quite sure of the thugness or dirty'olness on rides goes like this...
Yeah, I want to do that ride as soon as I'm in shape in the Spring.
OK, but... this is the slowest time of year for that ride, it only gets faster in the Spring.
Yeah, I'll be ready.
... no chance in helk, I think to myself. No chance at all.
Winter is the time to latch onto the fast guys while they're going slow. It's the only chance most of us have. Come Spring, those DirtyOl's will be Thugging every pedal stroke of every ride.
Now is the time to latch and do what they do... and if you're lucky ride what they ride.
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
163.4
Stretch/Plank/HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
No ride... Santa be bizzy.
CYCLING GENIUS LAYS OUT SIMPLE SUCCESS FORMULA
Dec 10, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THERE WAS NO WAY I WAS RISKIN' NOT GETTING MY DAILY DOSE OF MEDICINAL PEDALING by waiting until late afternoon. Most of the time the opportunity vanishes when I take the wait and see approach, then I'm suffering some serious withdrawals.
Some days are like that.
A lof 'em, lately.
My strategy comes from my favorite cycling genius...
"If A is a success in life, then A equals X plus Y plus Z. Work is X; Y is play; and Z is keeping your mouth shut."
... Albert Einstein.
It worked for AL, seems to be working for me... is it working for you?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
Use promo code: GENIUS
To save 20%
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
---
163.6
Stretch/Plank/HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4455017395
WHAT HEALS THE FASTEST?
Dec 09, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S A DRAG TO GO DOWN, CRASH. We pop up like nothing happened, whenever possible. Ride like all is cool. Then we get home, dried blood, bruised, banged up...
... and assess the damage.
With luck, only flesh wounds that will heal quickly.
With more luck, the bike is okay.
But, there's another category that can be damaged and dernright embarassing. I was reminded of it yesterday as my pal's ripped up shoulder flapped in the wind.
I'm sure it's a favorite kit. He wears it often.
Probably because there are no more to be purchased.
If only he'd had us make it... then he could exercise our Crash Replacement Policy.
Wouldn't that be nice?... fresh new kit, same favorite design.
How's it work?... send us a pic, we'll get it made at 50% savings.
I know, we really should make it harder. At a minimum more shameful... like require a pic of the incident to be posted all over the socials.
But why, when we could just get it made and delivered about as fast as the scabs are healed?
Personally, if I purchased a jersey this beautiful and shredded it racing down a mountain I'd love to get it replaced.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1?variant=36819856228513
It's hard to appreciate how awesome this blue is on a screen vs seeing it in person.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1?variant=36819856228513
PEDALposse members save 25% on this.
---
164.2
PushUps and PullUps
7.5 hrs sleep
No ride today - Santa and Elves very busy.
MTB PIONEER BUYS HIS FIRST COMPLETE BIKE
Dec 08, 2020
by TODD BROWN
FEW PEOPLE HAVE ASSEMBLED THEIR OWN BICYCLE, far fewer have ever assembled their own bicycle company. I'm lucky enough to know one of these individuals...
... here's what I've learned.
First off, we met around '92. It was a chilly morning, on a local single track that would soon become home to Olympic Champions and Pro Tour racers... along with masses of enthusiasts. Whiting Ranch.
Our bikes were heavy, and our suspension mostly awful.
Marv had scoped out a tiny company that was making lightweight full suspension bicycles that were works of art. Soon, he and Roger and I all had these anodized aluminum wonders.
Next thing I know, Marv sells his tech biz and buys a chunk of Intense Cycles.
The company was unique.
And, tiny.
I think I had frame number 8 or 9... and there may have been a 100 produced, ever, at that time.
Seemingly overnight the company is a well-known brand.
That's not what I learned. Anybody could see that from afar.
Over the years, I was able to see how he and his partners worked very hard every day patiently, diligently executing a great idea.
A great idea is worthless without great execution. But, if you do it right you can build something beautiful and one day sell it. Which he did.
Fast forward a little more and he's retired. Loving his BMC road bike and wanting a gravel bike.
He reads my blog on Strava.
Sees my BMC gravel bike.
Gives me a call.
New bike arrives in a box.
I shouldn't have been surprised, but I was.
We'll get it built tomorrow.
No need. I'll pick it up.
Of course he's going to put it together himself... some riders like to know exactly how all the pieces fit together...
... in everything they do.
I dig that.
Just like I dig riding gravel... haven't raced gravel yet, but it's kinda lookin' like that might be one of the only options next year.
So, if you thinking that could be on your calendar... give us a shout. Don't worry, we'll put it together for ya.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles
Funny thing... on his way out he asks...
Is this going to get me entries into the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway?
Yep, sure is.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/bmc-bicycles
---
164.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4446682448
THIS BIKE SHALL BE KNOWN ON THE RECORDS OF STRAVA
Dec 07, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M NOT EVEN SURE WHEN I STARTED NAMING MY BICYCLES. I've always done it. This morning, after one ride on a beautiful new BMC gravel slayer, I had the perfect name...
... names make a difference, you know.
Choose carefully.
Pick the right name and your ride can deliver mythical performance, exception inspiration and ward off all sorts of evil.
Often, I'll let the color have a good say in the matter.
This bike is purple. Purple frame. Purple ENVE™ stickers.
Not just any purple, but a truly righteous shade of glossy purpleness.
Of course, the proper first ride for any bike will include the kind of riding the bike is designed for. In this case it was...
Asphalt
A staircase.
A gravel road.
And some single track.
In that order, with lots of speed and magical handling.
Yep, this bike shall be known on the records of Strava as... Showtime... after the great Magic Johnson led Lakers in their purple and gold.
Did I mention it has ENVE™ Wheels? Did I mention how fast they roll? How snappy they accelerate? How tacky the tires feel with that wide rim?
Have I mentioned you could win a set of ENVE™s?
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
164.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4442252464
SPECIALIZED ANNOUNCES $4000 UNICYCLE
Dec 06, 2020
by TODD BROWN
UNDER PRESSURE TO DELIVER MORE S-WORKS FRAMES TO IT'S CUSTOMERS, the Big S has released a $4000 unicycle. Known as the Tar, the first available model is the S-Works level option.
Due to the unique nature of 1-wheel bikes vs 2-wheelers, they will essentially be doubling their production capacity.
Marketers at the company claim it's a triple win.
- Quicker deliver to customers
- Significant savings
- Better prep for the circus known as the Pro Tour.
That said this is not stripped down S-Works either:
- $1500 S-Works Tar frame
- $1100 Roval Alpinist Wheel
- $450 Power MIrror Saddle
- $400 S-Works Venge Seatpost
- $400 S-Works MTB Cranks
- $180 Boomslang Platform Pedals
- $50 Pathfinder Pro Tire
The company also claims myriad benefits to one-wheel training:
- Better balance
- Increased core strength
- Smoother pedal stroke
The icing on the cake, however, is safety.
Due to the upright unicycle position and it's rarely seen in the wild nature, drivers normally riveted to their phones and coffee are keenly aware of these beautiful machines and talented riders.
2020... what a year for cycling!
For those of you who continue riding two-wheelers, there's still time to enter the ENVE™ Wheel Give Away
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/giveaway
---
164.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4440002457
1ST LOSER... AGAIN!
Dec 05, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IF YOU EVER STOP BY TO SAY HI - AND I HOPE YOU DO - YOU WILL SEE A STRING OF 2ND PLACE TROPHIES. I have earned an unusual amount, and I keep them front and center as a reminder...
... there is always somebody better, I can always work harder.
Today's 2nd place, unlike the others, was a near disaster.
So many lessons.
First off... I set my sites on the wrong goal. Again. This time it was to be close to my San Diego friends who always whack me when I race down there. When I checked the start list and saw Stenk, TimZ, JohnnyO, JeffW, LarryP were also racing my chances of eating dust increased immensely.
That said... we'd just come off getting whacked at the Cactus Cup where the course is a series of neverending ups and downs. Matt set us up a local route that was nothing but that. Constant power climbs and quick drops. In other words, we trained about as best as one could for today's course.
Ideally, really.
Concurrently... I've been leaving late for to meet the posse recently requiring me to go all out the moment I leave the house. Which is exactly what Coach Brian has been asking me to work on.
No more Old Diesel TB... time to start hard and fast.
Let me just interject here, that Coach Brian did his first mountain bike race today and the first words out of his mouth to his Padawans was...
I had no idea how violent the start would be, we need you guys a lot fresher for these racers.
The lesson here is this... a good coaching relationship is two-way. He knew I needed to work on my starts, I knew to be fresh. Per Strava my form was a whopping +24 today.
Why was today a near 2nd Place disaster?
Well, yours Diesely wasn't paying attention.
I've often said the closer we get to the finish line the dumber we get. Today was no exception.
I knew the laps were 6 miles long. The race is called the Dirty30. 5 laps right? Duh...
... so there I am, in second place on the 4th lap...
TimZ had gapped me on the first lap by wisely choosing the easy to ride climb while I chose the hideous wall option. Took me a lap to recover from that. He was gone.
... anyway, I'm in the zone, figuring I've got another lap and half to go. It's heating up and my Camelbak is nearly empty I'm picking the cleanest lines I can, conserving as much as I can.
I slide around a corner and TimZ has a flat.
Ah, crud... sorry Tim!
Go, you got this!
I got this... well, probably if I race wisely I can keep this pace up for another 45 minutes.
How fun would that be?!
I catch and pass some of my pals. Yep, feeling great. Riding within myself. Thinking, Holy cow! This could work! Letting myself get a little giddy.
The last half mile of said lap 4 this jackball keeps battling me. I'm thinking Bro, we have another lap. I've already put minutes on you, since you were in the first wave.
We roll through to do lap 5 and the great Victor Sheldon, the promoter on the mic, says Todd Brown, winner of the 55+ division!. Hellyeah I say to myself.
Matt rolls up... Nice job on the V, but I still beat you by 4 min. Folks, that is friendship. The best kind.
The posse is congradulatory. Slapping my back and all.
Sten rolls up, I'm a believer! You took off so fast I couldn't ever see you. Finished less than a minute behind you. Second place is great!
Second place, no way. Tim flatted. No one else in front.
Well... scoring says some guy named David Juarez beat you.
Tinker! That stinker!
For the record - have I said that yet? - David Tinker Juarez is a former Olympian who usually races pro... at 58 years old. Beating a lot of the Pro field is normal for him, still.
When he lined up and took off with them we all figured he's doing his thing... thankfully. We took off 2 minutes later.
Could I have beat him...
.... hahahahahhahaha, no chance in 'ell. He put 13 minutes on me.
Back to my point, I'm never dissatisfied with 2nd place as long as I know there was nothing left in the tank and I raced to the best of my ability.
However, I would have been extremely ticked if the pack of gray wolves behind me had caught and passed me at the end of lap 4 while I was secretly setting them up for an all out onslaught on lap 5.
Lastly, so far I'm the only actual grandpappy on that podium... and I'm most happy about that.
2 More Critical Race Notes:
- JimmyC came up to me, probably when Victor was explaining how many laps we were going race and said I was trying to decide Camelbak or bottles last night and you came to me in a vision... Camelbak, totally dorky but infinitely better on a course as relentless and technical as this.
- 3 things helped me go faster than last Dirty30: first, I'm about 5 lbs lighter than last year; second, via a lot of saddle time I'm one with my new BMC 4 Stroke and is legit much faster than any XC bike I've ridden before; third, the HyperVolt is a recovery game changer.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dirty30
Don't you deserve this for Christmas? Your competitors certainly don't :D
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dirty30
Purchase all 3
Use Promo Code: DIRTY30
PR Lotion and Chamois Butt'r will be FREE
Plus, get 825 entries into the ENVE™ Wheel GiveAway
---
THE GREAT RONNIE COLEMAN
Dec 04, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE STORY OF THE GREAT RONNIE COLEMAN IS ON NETFLIX. I'm struck by the persistence, humility, and greatness of this man and athlete. You might be too...
... it reminded of what makes binge watching great (it's a 90 min documentary).
It's the arc of our own story that takes us from hacks and weekenders to consistently improving beasts.
That's why we binge watch, to find out what's going to happen to our heroes and villains.
Perched on my saddle, it appears to me that the dabblers - hacks is too harsh - are the riders who never really get better. The ones who get excited, buy a bike, ride it a few times and turn into place to dry out wet clothes.
That's not us.
We register for events and we race.
The more official and epic the race, the more dramatic and awesome our story. Wherever your racing is on the scale...
Beating Your PR <-- Racing to the City Limits sign --> Winning Nationals
It's our own heroes journey and battling of real and made up villains that keeps us going, and coming back for more. The endless fasciation with improving our performance.
Non-racers mostly miss out on all that drama. Which I contest is why they lose interest. There is no story arc for them.
For example, we'll sign up for an event that is 6 months out.
We start paying more attention to what we are eating, how far we are riding, how fast we are going, getting a bike fit... all things we can do to increase efficiencies. We measure them. See what works, what doesn't. Test ourselves against friends or less important races, etc.
That is our story arc.
Watch Ronnie's story and you'll get the sweet flavor of this post.
Kinda like the sweet flavor of Honey Stinger Waffles.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger
I just love these... perfect for long rides when you want something solid that goes down deliciuosly.
These also make great stocking stuffers, plus get you entered into the ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/stinger
---
161.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4429179393
(finally got that KOM - now that's drama)
LIKE A FINE TUNED MACHINE
Dec 03, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S BUSY HERE AT THE SHOP. It makes me happy. With a local race on Saturday and us being a racy bunch the bikes are flowing in and out. These are the people that take no chances. They've busted their buns to get fit and they've learned from sweaty experience to make sure their machines...
... are as finely tuned as they are.
But, ya know what's weird?
The racy peeps who are finely tuned on poorly tuned machines.
I see them every race. I've been one.
RaceDay morning they'll be all kitted up, ready to rip. Drivetrain will be filthy, shifting poorly. Tires lacking tread.
Or worse.
They will have put on new parts the day before and woken up to flat tires because the sealant didn't seal. Chain skipping because new chains skipping on old, worn cassettes.
It's a long list.
We all recognize it.
With some luck things will go well and they'll finish with big smiles.
But, who wants to risk that? Who wants to waste the emotional energy involved with either the mishaps or just having that Hope this don't break nagging feeling?
One thing that's always fun is to sport a new kit on RaceDay.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/grayghost
Like a gray over gray... haunting your prey...
Did I see a ghost? Is that the rider I'm chasing? Do I even have a chance?
The light is picking up the color a little oddly in the these pics. I'll post some more in the daylight soon.
In the meantime, here's the dealio...
Buy the kit, get the gloves and socks free.
Promo code is GRAYGHOST
It will actually apply a discount across all 4 items equalling $40 - price of gloves and socks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/grayghost
---
161.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4425596286
Found this inside my tire while prepping... nice little staple clean through and Stan's all dried out.
Thought my brake was rubbing... nope. Checked the rotor... nope. Wheel was spinning great but strange sound... turned out to be dust under dust cap... the kinda sound that can drive ya crazy when you're racing.
THAT NEW BIKE SMELL
Dec 02, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DON'T TELL MY HUSBAND I BOUGHT THIS , OKAY? The smile on her face was unerasable. For this first time in her adult life this friend o' mine purchased a bicycle for herself. It's a day we all remember...
... and we remember 'splaining to our family and friends.
I bought a new bike.
Really?
Yeah, it's awesome.
What kind?
A gravel bike (using today's example)
What's that?
Oh, it's like a road bike but it can go anywhere. On pavement, but I will mainly ride it on the dirt roads and trails... more adventure, probably safer.
... so far so good, everything going according to plan ...
Let's see it... Wow!... how much was it?
... here is where our super stoked out of her mind new bike owner says ...
I got a really good deal.
... now, I'm not saying that's the wrong answer. Lord knows I've used it plenty of times myself ...
Oh, really... how good?
Oh that new bike smell!!!
Our friend/family/lover can smell that bike, can see bird feather hanging out of our cat mouth.
There's no going back. Because...
Ain't nowayinhell I'm going another day of my life without the joy of carbon between my legs and wind in my face.
It might be the smell of burning cash to outsiders...
... but, it's the smell of countless heckfire good times ahead to us.
Now, whether you're heading out on a new bike or your trusty stead this time of year the weather can be challenging.
That's I developed the KOM jacket.
You've never seen, touched, worn or smelled anything like this.
It's made of a very fine, stretchy membrane fabric that we import from a special factory nestled near the Dolomites of Italy. They're the only people in the world that produce this material which is wind and water resistant... and so light and feather you can roll it up and tuck it in your back jersey pocket.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
We keep selling them as fast as we can make them, but there are a few in stock as of tonight.
It's called the KOM jacket because it's perfect for this local 12 mile MTB climb I'm trying to PR all the time.
Most mornings when we're getting after it we are plenty warm on the way up. But, in the winter it can be very cold up there and it can get covered in clouds pretty quickly.
This jacket is perfect for whipping out at the top before bombing back down... if it's really cold, arm warmers underneath.
You can save $35 on this incredible layer when you join the PEDALposse -> https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalposse-monthly-subscription
Or you can save a few bucks with this promo code: KOM
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/vests-jackets-warmers
---
162.6
Stretch HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4421202074
STEVE JOBS... WE'RE A LOT LIKE HIM
Dec 01, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF MY BUSINESS HEROES IS THE GREAT STEVE JOBS. And, while I'm not Steve Jobs, and you might not be either, we have a secret super power in common...
... Oh, do tell Diesel!
Steve was famous for taking long walks when he wanted to get his point across or really get to know somebody. Very long walks. He would sucker them in saying Let's walk around the block... and then be gone for hours.
I am the same way... I'm guessin' you are too.
But, on bikes.
Most of my most meaningful conversations with my close friends and mentors have taken place on bike rides. Racing for sure has been covered in great detail... and so has solving life's many riddles.
I remember early on cornering, creeping on?, every fast rider I could find. Listening to everything they said to me or whoever they were talking to. And, I've siddled up to many a new rider to share tips, stories and ideas. Riding side by side is such a great way to impart and consume knowledge.
Fact is... the best conversations in my life have happened outdoors, at an easy pace: long rides, hikes, walks, ski lifts, waiting for waves, sailing etc...
... as well as some of my best product ideas.
What's your favorite Diesel Creation?
- RaceDay Bag™
- Superlight Race Gloves
- Race Socks with EZ Breathe Yarns and FastMax Compression
- Pro Jersey and Pro Bibs with Italian fabrics and a top secret chamois
- The KOM Jacket
- The Changing Poncho
- ...
Well, if it's the Changing Poncho...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
When you purchase the changing poncho, not only are you getting a great tool for changing in public but we are getting you 3 X the entries into the ENVE Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
163.8
PushUps and PullUps HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4416860544
IS EVERY DAY REALLY RACEDAY™?
Nov 30, 2020
by TODD BROWN
EVERY DAY IS RACEDAY
To my friends who find joy on bicycles and want to dramatically improve their skills and ability.
INTRODUCTION
I’m Todd, aka The Old Diesel.
I’ll be your guide, and maybe one day we can race together. Until then, I hope this little book will help you be confident in your abilities to line up and win.
Because credibility creates believability, you should know I have won 2 National Championships in my age group. These were racing an event called SuperD, what is now referred to as Enduro. I have also one many other races on road and mountain bikes.
That said, some of my greatest victories had nothing to do with standing atop the podium.
Setting my PR at Leadville in 2019 and snagging 2nd place at LoToJa in 2017 are just as exhilarating to look back on. We’ll cover these and other stories to put winning and racing into what I believe is a proper perspective.
If you’re looking for a tactic to win a sprint, you might find a few. However, the purpose of this book is to present a strategy for approaching bicycle racing that is fun and rewarding, leading to a lifetime of growth and improvement.
By the time you finish reading you’ll have a good idea of what it takes to be a racer, and clear understanding of why you need to start racing now.
Let’s get started.
CHAPTER 1 - WHAT IS WINNING?
Get this right, and you’ll win every time you pin on a number.
---
I've written a lot more of the book... but, that's all you get to see for now. I like to keep the good stuff undercover.
Maybe that's why the Changing Poncho is getting a plug tonight.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
When you purchase the changing poncho, not only are you getting a great tool for changing in public but we are getting you 3 X the entries into the ENVE Wheel Giveaway.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedalindustries-changing-poncho
---
164
PushUps and PullUps HyperVolt
7.7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248/posts
DIVERSITY = SPEED
Nov 29, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THIS MIGHT SOUND OBVIOUS, and might be something for you to consider... it's something I'm intentional about. My riding and exercise is highly varied... and I was reflecting on that while looking for a book I'd previously read, here's a sample books I've read this year...
... Major Taylor's biography - America's richest and most successful athlete and cyclist circa 1900, Rise of the Dungeon Master - Biography of Gary Gygax and the creation of Dungeons and Dragons, Blue Moon - a Jack Reacher novel, Subscribed - Tien Tzuo, Creativity - John Cleese...
... and that's just the first 5 books of probably 30 I've read this year...
... i vary my reading to be a better writer,
I vary my riding to be a better racer.
Yeah, I know yesterday's post Specificity = Speed might seem like a contradiction, but bear with me.
By doing a lot of different riding and racing I gather skills that can be applied elsewhere.
For example, mountain bikers very rarely will be in a road paceline and get into trouble.
Why?
Because mountain bikers also form pacelines offroad and inherently know to never trust the rider in front to pick the best line, let alone point things out.
Road riders, particularly the racers, develop tremendous 1, 3, and 5 minute power.
Why?
Because they know if they can just hang on to those violent accelerations things will calm down and be manageable again... while those without the power have been jettisoned.
Yes, I do a lot of different types of riding: road, gravel and mountain. And, I also do a fair amount of walking and surfing and paddling. Walking is just good. The surfing and paddling are great for upper body strength and core... and balance. Cycling, especially road, is all about straight forward... offroad uses some side to side balance, but nothing like standing on a surfboard on the ocean.
All that said... if you can swing another bike, get it. It doesn't need to be "pro", it just needs to function properly. If you can swing another sport, do it.
And, it's not just the additional skills you'll bring back to cycling but also the freshness you'll bring to the new riding and from the new riding to the one you really want to excel at.
Of course, if you're doing a lot of riding it can be nice to have a good chamois cream. I've been testing out Dave Zabriskie's product DZ Nutz...
... I'm guessing the name can be a bit repellant, but don't let it fool ya. This product lasts a long time, and I find I'm using less of it than Chamois Butt'r - a product I think is great.
By that I mean, a smaller amount of cream is needed. One, the cream itself seems to hold up longer; and two, because I need less per application the bottle lasts a good long time.
THIS MIGHT SOUND OBVIOUS, and might be something for you to consider... it's something I'm intentional about. My riding and exercise is highly varied... and I was reflecting on that while looking for a book I'd previously read, here's a sample books I've read this year...
... Major Taylor's biography - America's richest and most successful athlete and cyclist circa 1900, Rise of the Dungeon Master - Biography of Gary Gygax and the creation of Dungeons and Dragons, Blue Moon - a Jack Reacher novel, Subscribed - Tien Tzuo, Creativity - John Cleese...
... and that's just the first 5 books of probably 30 I've read this year...
... i vary my reading to be a better writer,
I vary my riding to be a better racer.
Yeah, I know yesterday's post Specificity = Speed might seem like a contradiction, but bear with me.
By doing a lot of different riding and racing I gather skills that can be applied elsewhere.
For example, mountain bikers very rarely will be in a road paceline and get into trouble.
Why?
Because mountain bikers also form pacelines offroad and inherently know to never trust the rider in front to pick the best line, let alone point things out.
Road riders, particularly the racers, develop tremendous 1, 3, and 5 minute power.
Why?
Because they know if they can just hang on to those violent accelerations things will calm down and be manageable again... while those without the power have been jettisoned.
Yes, I do a lot of different types of riding: road, gravel and mountain. And, I also do a fair amount of walking and surfing and paddling. Walking is just good. The surfing and paddling are great for upper body strength and core... and balance. Cycling, especially road, is all about straight forward... offroad uses some side to side balance, but nothing like standing on a surfboard on the ocean.
All that said... if you can swing another bike, get it. It doesn't need to be "pro", it just needs to function properly. If you can swing another sport, do it.
And, it's not just the additional skills you'll bring back to cycling but also the freshness you'll bring to the new riding and from the new riding to the one you really want to excel at.
Of course, if you're doing a lot of riding it can be nice to have a good chamois cream. I've been testing out Dave Zabriskie's product DZ Nutz...
... I'm guessing the name can be a bit repellant, but don't let it fool ya. This product lasts a long time, and I find I'm using less of it than Chamois Butt'r - a product I think is great.
By that I mean, a smaller amount of cream is needed. One, the cream itself seems to hold up longer; and two, because I need less per application the bottle lasts a good long time.
If you're looking for something new to protect your special purpose, check this out.
Use promo code: VARIETY
---
164.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4409777483
SPECIFICITY = SPEED
Nov 28, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THIS MIGHT SOUND OBVIOUS, it might not even be a thing for you... but for me, this is something I have to dial in. Ya see I like a lot of variety in my riding... and I was reflecting on that while listening to my top song's of 2020, according to Apple music. You could say there's some variety, here's a sample...
Paranoid - Black Sabbath, Put Your Lights On - Everlast, Bleed It Out - Linkin Park, Super Bad - James Brown, Landslide - Dixie Chicks, Symphony of Destruction - Megadeth.
... that's just the first 5 songs, much like the 5 days I ride...
Gravel Monday, Road Tuesday, Gravel or MTB Wednesday, Rest Thursday, Gravel Friday, Road or MTB Saturday.
That's no way to get prepped for a race... which is exactly what I'm hoping to do Saturday. Race the Dirty 30.
To that aim, I've upped my MTB a lot.
And it's showing results.
Lots of PRs on the downhill sections today.
One simple reason.
When you get really specific on your riding, getting as close as what you expect to be racing. Bike. Terrain. Weather. Time of day. etc.... you get a lot faster because you become one with your machine.
My mountain bike is my most complex machine by far.
Sure, there's only 1 shifter on the right hand. But there's a dropper post and 3 different suspension settings to work on the left hand.
Plus the brakes.
But, on an MTB locking up the rear wheel to line up a turn is a thing... as is getting on the binders so hard that the front wheel wants to give way. Neither of which is even a thought on the road.
Which is the point... specificity = speed.
You know what else equals speed? Being able to pack up efficiently and find all your gear when you get to the race.... which is why we created the RaceDay Bag™
Right you can get a loaded bag and save a load of cash.
$308 in product for $200.
PRO bag, changing poncho, Purist water bottles, PR Lotion, DZ Nutz, gloves, socks, and a tshirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ultimate-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
We never discount the RaceDay Bag™, ever. Offer ends Sunday 11/29.
Use promo code: IGIVEGOODGIFTS
You'll need to email help@customerservice with the colors and sizes of the items you want in your bag.
Y'all are awesome!
---
164
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4403752592
SKILLS AND THRILLS... A LAUGHING MATTER
Nov 27, 2020
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE MOST OVERLOOKED INGREDIENTS TO MASTERING MOUNTAIN BIKING IS LAUGHING. In my early years, my pal Garrett and I would scope out the hidden single tracks and dial them in...
... then take the rest of the fellas out, pretending like it was our first time.
To be sure, there were a lot of Oh shyte moments... but, it was all fun n games and the trickery was paid back many times.
The riding back then was a lot more adventurous.
We'd wander down cow paths wondering where they led. We'd drop off steep ledges wondering of the rickety equipment would hold up.
Bending a seat post isn't even a thing any more. Neither is carrying spokes and spoke tools.
Amidst all that breaking of parts and trespassing was a lot of laughter.
We weren't in a hurry, weren't rushing, weren't racing. We were learning, playfully approaching a new and exciting sport.
The last few weeks I've been taking out a young padawan, Rocky, on our local trails.
Today I was reminded of those old times. We dropped in on some truly steep stuff - 36% according to the Strava file - which I'd previously been down more than a few times.
There was a lot of stopping, a lot of hootin' and hollerin' and a lot of laughing... because it was so dern fun. Taking our time allowed the kid to recover and get ready to charge the next section.
Come to think of it... most of the teaching of sporty things that I've done in my life has involved a lot of laughter and time taking. It just works better...
... and the steep, technical MTBing works a lot better with a really solid connection to the handle bars. The kind of connection you get with our superlight race gloves.
These gloves are very light. Perforated 100% leather palms, perforated lycra tops. The form to your hand and give you great feedback.
For many, especially your very biased developer of said gloves, these are the only way to go... road, gravel or mountain.
And right now, buy 'em and get a pair of socks free...
... our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
This code will stop working Saturday night.
---
163.6
Paddle
8.25 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4398985947
BATTLE OF THE 3 COURSE MEALS
Nov 26, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD PLAN. It usually does, but I've never seen it work. Ever. No matter what I do... it's always a fail on Friday morning.
Today's strategy was simple.
Rise with the sun and ride with the fellas, on an empty stomach.
Like all plans, the first part was easy to execute. Met 'em. Rode with 'em. Came home.
Next, get my ladies and go paddle boarding, on an empty stomach.
Like all plans, a hiccup occurred. I walked in to...
Guess what Tom brought over!
Tom is our neighbor who never brings anything over.
I dunno.
But, I could smell it. Homemade sourdough bread.
I'd built up a massive resistance to what I was sure she was going to tempt me with... a bear claw donut. I was ready to look that glazed goodness and walk on by...
... and that's why the sourdough and butter and honey was so deadly. I wasn't ready to say NO to that... am I ever?
Eventually we waddled across the sand and paddled.
I was kind of back on track because we came home cleaned up and headed down to our son's inlaws for a special occasion.
This is where I thought I could recover from the sourdough... and yes that dern bear claw.
Steve, my son's fatherinlaw, had expressed interest in getting a gravel bike so I brought down a loaner. We changed and took him out for his first ride in years. The running trails behind his home are a great place to gravel... and gravel we did.
He commutes by moto to work, so his handling skills were great... and he was suprised at how the bikes could climb and get across the sandy sections.
If I was a betting dude, I'd bet he'll be a lifer... but, I'd also bet on my having restraint with the appetizers...
... I was so close. I'd only slightly cheated. The fabulous turkey feast was a scant 30 minutes in the future...
... never bet on a starving rider to have restraint when the calories are so empty and plentiful.
At dinner, people were considering going for seconds... I'd already been.
At dessert, I didn't go for seconds... because it ain't seconds if you haven't had that flavor of pie yet.
So yeah... an absolutely successful and wonderful day: lots of riding, lots of time with my favorite peoples, lots a time to consider our good fortune.
Like many new riders, Steve didn't have gloves or socks... and I neglected to bring any extras...
... which is why we are brining back the BuyGlovesGetSocks promo code.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
We have lots of new colors in stock.
These are amazing superlight fullfinger race gloves and our race socks made with EZ Breathe yarns and FastMax compression technologies.
The gloves are $25 (I know we should charge $35) and the socks are $15 normally...
use promo code BuyGlovesGetSocks at check out and get them delivered for $25 bones.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/socks-and-gloves
This code will stop working Saturday night.
---
163.6
Paddle
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4394010600
https://www.strava.com/activities/4394600434
https://www.strava.com/activities/4395551729
THE TECH I'M GRATEFUL FOR
Nov 25, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I'M GRATEFUL FOR THREE PIECES OF TECH, the digital and electronic gizmos. Two are new to me and one is an old friend... I share them all liberally... errrr, I preach them all regularly.... mmmmmm, I love this stuff and you might too.
The old friend is Strava, for sure. If social media is of the devil, the I guess I'm going to helk... because I love Strava. Let me count the ways:
- At any time, I can look back over the years and see what I was doing and the effect it was having.
- Tracking my PRs and monitoring my progress.
- Encouraging my friends and receiving their encouragement.
- Searching out new routes and studying upcoming rides.
Those are my top 4.
Electric shifting on my MTB. While I've had it on my road bike and loved it, the new 12 speed, 1x drivetrains with with electronic shifting are amazing. For example:
- It's much faster and
- More precise than mechanical shifting
- and, kind to my old joints.
It took me a while to get used to. It's very sensitive and I would accidentally shift it in the beginning, but it's second nature now. Truly awesome.
Last is the HyperVolt. I've had it for about a month now and it's the only variable in my training that is new... meanwhile I feel incredibly recovered after some blistering workouts.
I've used rollers, I've had massages. There's plenty of discomfort with each and it never goes away while going through the treatment.
The HyperVolt is different.
I use it on my legs, feet, back, arms. Everywhere.
Here's the difference.
The only place I have real, true soreness is my legs. Mainly above the knee. Quads and hammies.
With the setting on 3, the strongest, and with the absorber attachment, I'll go over my legs and find a sore spot. I'll then spend some time there... and here's makes the HyperVolt so much better... I'll stay on that sore spot until the pain goes away.
That's a big difference.
Imagine your legs feel terrible, certain spots are sore to the touch and you have this gizmo that you can work your legs over with and the pain goes away. Such that, when you go upstairs they are remarkably recovered.
Could I live without Strava, E-shifting and they HyperVolt? Of course. Would I want to? Not for a minute.
If you're looking for just the right thing to give yourself...
... because let's be honest, the family/friends ain't gonna get it - just like all they didn't get you the aero helmet or fancyshmancy shoes...
... get they HyperVolt, put it under the tree with a note from Santa.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/hypervolt-w-bluetooth
I spent some time on the phone today with the manufacturer so I could understand the difference between this model and the new cheaper/lighter version.
You could get it, but I wouldn't.
It doesn't have level 3, only goes up to the equivalent of level 2. Also missing is the absorber attachment I love.
Use promocode: TECHILOVE to save $70... offer endsThursday 11/26/2020 11:59pm.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery/products/hypervolt-w-bluetooth
PS... yes, the HyperVolt will get you 700 entries into the ENVE Wheel Giveaway
---
164.2 (so much backsliding)
Stretch and HyperVolt
8.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4391447910
I'M GRATEFUL FOR MY MVP SKILLS
Nov 24, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IN BUSINESS THERE IS A CONCEPT CALLED THE MINIMUM VIABLE PRODUCT. The idea is a company should create the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to go to market, and build from there as quickly as possible. We practice that here...
... yawn!
You don't care about that... but, you should care about Minimum Viable Power!
We also practice that.
It's the crafty move of going to the front at the bottom of a climb and drifting back but not getting dropped.
It's the wily cat who takes pulls like everyone else but is glued to the wheel in front, and rather than tapping brakes will slide to the side... both move save tons of watts.
It's learning how to corner, carrying speed in so you don't need to sprint out.
It's having a pristine drivetrain.
Where can you conserve energy? Carry speed? Stay off the brakes? Accelerate wisely?
There are myriad ways to use the Minimum Viable Power...
... and here's the kicker with MVP, as you figure 'em out...
... you'll have significantly more finishing energy..
... and when you unleash your mighty fury...
...and all the other competitors will see is your vanishing silhouette.
Speaking of unleashing, yesterday in my exuberance to unleash a killer promo to you my faithful readers I shared the code that the commoners will get on Friday... assuming any product is left.
My bad, but the offer is still insanely good.
$308 in product for $200.
The Ultimate RaceDay Bag™, loaded with the goods: PRO bag, changing poncho, Purist water bottles, PR Lotion, DZ Nutz, gloves, socks, and a tshirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ultimate-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
We never discount the RaceDay Bag™, ever. There are only 100 of these packages available. Only readers of the blog know about it... until Friday, then we'll promote it - if any remain.
Use promo code: IGIVEGOODGIFTS
You'll need to email help@customerservice with the colors and sizes of the items you want in your bag.
Y'all are awesome!
---
163.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
6.5 hrs sleep (too excited for toosday)
https://www.strava.com/activities/4385225942
I'M THANKFUL FOR BEING MOCKED
Nov 23, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I CAN COUNT ON MY HANDS AND FEET AND WITH THE HELP OF A SUPERCOMPUTER THE NUMBER OF FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHO MOCKED my love of cycling over the years and who now see the light. The runners who can no longer run, the moto riders who want to ride better and longer, the surfers who want a daily stoke, and my favorites the sedentary who realize there's an athlete inside each of us.
That mocking made me rock solid in my truth: riding bikes is a lifelong sport.
I was lucky enough to grab hold of that truth in my 20s. Over the years my commitment never waned, though my time and focus changed with the responsibilities of life. Still, even in my slouthest era I got out a couple of times a week.
We share truth with our friends and family because we know it's good.
Of course our kids all got bikes and can ride, one even raced for a while. Surfergirl and I still ride together. I rounded up bikes for my dad and brothers and all kinds of friends. Invited and encouraged. At one point my dad was riding his bike back to the office at night to stay in shape and put in a few more hours of lawyering.
Still there's that mocking.
I ain't wearing spandex!
Wouldn't a motor be more fun?
Don't your privates hurt?
You rode how far?
... you know 'em all
But, we stick with it... witnessing our health staying steady and often improving, while so many others are in decline.
And one day... if we're lucky... we live in a time when bicycle riding is more popular than it has been in decades.
What if they hadn't mocked us and we hadn't stuck with it? Would they be riding and improving their health today?
I dunno.
But, I do know those that ride would be thrilled to the moon to receive the Ultimate RaceDay Bag™, loaded with the goods: PRO bag, changing poncho, Purist water bottles, PR Lotion, DZ Nutz, gloves, socks, and a tshirt.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ultimate-raceday-bag%E2%84%A2
We never discount the RaceDay Bag™, ever. There are only 100 of these packages available. Only readers of the blog know about it... until Friday, then we'll promote it - if any remain.
Use promo code: IGIVEGOODGIFTS
You'll need to email help@customerservice with the colors and sizes of the items you want in your bag.
Y'all are awesome!
---
164.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
8.1 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4382302022
I'M THANKFUL FOR SCARS
Nov 22, 2020
by TODD BROWN
DO CHICKS REALLY DIG SCARS? I was thinking about this while watching BLEED FOR THIS... the Vinnie Pazienza story, which is absolutely awesome if you're into comeback stories...
... I don't know if chicks dig 'em as much as dudes claim, but I do know I have more than a few.
There are the external scars: split eyebrow, knees ground to the bone, 3rd degree burns, wrist sanded down, simultaneously split shins, divot in my calf, countless flesh wounds...
The less visible: busted off end of collar bone, cracked radial head, permanent strawberry on hip (you can't see it, but I do every morning)...
These are all from doing things the things I love: bikes, motos, surfing, etc
Then there's the invisible internal shiz we get a helping of at some point along the way, the ones that hurt different...
In most instances, I've learned and improved... upgrading my skills, avoiding similar situations.
My scars are part of my journey...
... and I sure don't dig 'em in the moment, but...
... I'm grateful for each one, they have made me who I am.
A good way to avoid new scars is riding with great lights... and I'd like to help you any way I can to avoid the mistakes I've made.
Perhaps the biggest mistake I ever made while MTB night riding was going with only a headlight.
I had no idea what I was doing, and I figured a headlight would be better than a light on the bike.
Makes sense.
But, it's a terrible idea.
At night, it's the shadows that give you depth perception. A light mounted on your bars is lower than your eyes, so you see the shadow it casts and get an idea of the size of the obstacles in your way. A helmet light is not going to cast shadows because it's beam is on the same line as our eyeballs.
So there I was zipping over this large, round and flat rock... only it wasn't flat.
But it was large and round.
Next thing I know my hands are on the bars and me feet are over my head and I'm thinking This is gonna leave a mark!
Yes, you want a helmet light but you want it to be much weaker than the beam on your bike. The helmet light mainly helps you look into the bushes hoping you don't a pair of nocturnal hunting eyes staring back at ya.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/all-lights
Use promo code: LIT
And remember to enter the $3000 ENVE Wheel Giveaway while your at it.
---
164.2
Stretch and HyperVolt
7;5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4365411286
I'M THANKFUL FOR FRIENDS OLD AND NEW
Nov 21, 2020
by TODD BROWN
WE HAD A COUPLE OF NEW GUYS JOIN US TODAY... now there are two ways to handle new guys: one, roll out easy and get to know them; two, punch their ticket and see if they have any game...
... can ya guess what we always opt for, and why?
It's not personal, it's for their own good.
The sooner we can get rid of them or not get rid of them the better.
If we get rid of them, we've saved them hours of torture and potentially getting lost and/or hurt. If we can't get rid of them, then we know we've got some gamers that are gonna push us.
We didn't get rid of them, which was awesome.
Eventually we settled into a fast, challenging pace but one were we could still chat and get to know each other. Turns out one of them, Brian, grew up near me and we have a few friends in common.
Whether or not this bromance will flourish is uncertain.
What is certain is the extreme gratitude I felt all ride to have made really great friends over the years. Each of these dudes inspires me in the way they live their lives, honor their commitments and cherish their families.
The ladies, bless their hearts, think it's just a bunch of guys being kids on a Saturday. But, we know better... it's this wheel time that helps us be the kinda dudes they want to keep around.
Just because I'm also grateful Surfergirl totally understands the meaning of this t-shirt... let's make it a buy 1 get 1 promo
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
The code is: THANKFULFORFRIENDS
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
---
163.8
Stretch and HyperVolt
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4371323805
IT'S OUR FOR THE TAKING
Nov 20, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I HAD THIS EMAIL ALL CHARTED OUT ON MY RIDE THIS MORNING, while I was shredding single track on my kick@$$ BMC URS. I was soooo fired up. But now all I can recall is the title...
... it happens when your HR is tickling the clouds it's so high.
It went something like this...
We are the take charge types... not waiting for anyone to tell us what to do... we get things done.
We take risks... not RedBull Rampage risks... but going for things well beyond our current capabilities.
We take responsibility... when our plans fail, when our risks don't pay off... we look at the person in the mirror.
... and that's why it ours for the taking, so few live this way.
I'll be saddling up early tomorrow, heading out with a bunch of stallions who could be my kids and sticking it to 'em as hard as I can until they leave me for dead... and I'm totally cool with that. It's my plan, my risk and my responsibility to keep The Old Diesel in tiptop shape.
Speaking of the URS, fondly known as The Highlighter as it's generally the highlight of my day and often my week, the time has come for it to find a new home.
This is without a doubt the funnest bike I've ever owned and the only reason I'm letting it go is because a new model is arriving in my size.
It is in Excellent Condition.
You're probably wondering if it's fast... helk yeah! I've been keeping up no prob on the local flat group rides, keeping up slight problem on the hilly A version of the TMWC - fastest weekday ride around.
Is it comfortable?... Totally! There's a little micro bumper in the rear triangle that affords 20mm of travel, which is super sweet on the fast washboardy stuff.
Is it light?... pretty dern light for an entry level gravel slayer.
Does it handle well?... well? Try amazing. If you want a bike that can jump and slay singletrack this is the one.
The very first day I had it I picked off, without even tryin', a bunch of PRs on the local steep fire roads.
That's the kind of confidence this bike delivers.
If I had to chose one bike, this is the one... only thing I'd add is a second set of wheels for road.
The retail on this bike is $4k. I'll take $3k... and yes, you'll get 3000 entries into our killer ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
PS... if you want a new version of this bike LMK
---
162.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4365411286
HOW GOOD IS YOUR CROSSTRAINING?
Nov 19, 2020
by TODD BROWN
I THINK I HAVE THE PERFECT CROSSTRAINING SPORT:
__ It's fun
__ Strengthens my core, a lot
__ Sharpens my balance
___ and, I can get bonus points by taking Surfergirl along
So, I strapped on the Wahoo and fired up Strava to get some data.
It's not good.
Or, is it?
Today's effort vs last night's MTB effort
Max h. r. 107 vs 176
Average h.r. 96 vs 144
Relative Effort 6 vs 193
It's a lot easier on The Old Diesel's ol' ticker. Honestly, that's probably a good thing and it's still a great workout. When I'm done I have a similar feeling to a good swim workout... my upper body is pumped up and feels strong.
Plus, what other activity is going ticks the boxes of fun, core, balance and bonus points?
Not many.
I think the key for crosstraining is that it is fun and works on other parts of your body that you'll also need to be a strong bike rider. The fun part, so we are consistent. Strengthening other parts of our body, like our core, can make a huge difference in bike handling.
When I finally pick a date for next year to do a training camp here in San Clemente, we are for sure including time on the water...
... 'cause paddleboarding is a lotta fun.
Maybe that's what inspired this new jersey design?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1
Didja know we make all our apparel here in CA? That we import the finest fabrics from Italy? It's true. Then we print the fabrics, cut them with a laser beam, and sew them one at a time. Custom. Just for you... and me.
These jerseys will be ready to ship in about 2 weeks. You can order now...
... and earn 100 entries into the $3000 ENVE Wheel Giveaway.
Click here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/navy-pro-jersey-1
---
163.6
Stretch and HyperVolt
8.2 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4360937653
THE GREAT EDDIE B
Nov 18, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE GODFATHER OF MODERN AMERICAN BICYCLE RACING AND COACHING HAS PASSED AWAY. Eddie B. I read two tributes today, and will add my own.
Velonews, the boring and uncreative steward of US Cycling reportage, simply stated he was a coach who headed the '84 Olympic team and somehow wound up the history of this man with a banal dump in the doping gutter.
Chris Carmichael, who legitimized the cycling coaching profession for thousands of coaches, reminisced on his time under Eddie's tutelage and the advice he received when he chose the same profession: Keep the good of the athlete central at all times.
To which I will add my own comment.
Somewhere, buried under the countless books I've read is a little section with Cycling Training. There's Joe Friel's book, and Lemond's and Armstrong's and Ned's... but, Eddie's was the first and only book I could find in the late 80's.
Imagine that.
Only one person in the US was putting any effort into finding and developing bicycle racers in any meaningful way such that a dork like me could learn a thing or two.
I tried buddying up to the local legends, but it was fruitless. And the bike shops were worse. The prevailing arrogance of those in the know was disgusting and turned many a would be lifer into a why bother move on'r.
But, somehow I found the book... in fact, it might have been in the printed - and, at the time very cool - pages of Velonews.
There is no one thing gleaned from Eddie that I can point to today which made a difference in my attempts to move from a lowly 4 to a 3. No technique per se.
However, there was hope...
... and that's all most of us needed. The simple concept that we could get better if we'd put together a plan and stick to it was revolutionary. Because up that point the only plan was ride a lot.
I never knew or met Eddie, but if I'd run into him here's what I would have said...
Thanks for giving me hope and a plan, man.
Which is exactly the same thing I get from my current Coach Brian McCulloch. I'm a less than ideal student. Headstrong... and woefully dependent on racing vs structured workouts. He patiently listens, instinctively knows what I need, and forcefully puts for the plan he is certain I will stick to, that will stretch me but not burn me out... which is a long way of saying he gives me hope and a plan.
If you'll indulge me a little... that thinking is pretty much all we instill on anybody we are tasked with helping along life's paths. It's all we can do as parents... as a wise man once said, I teach them correct principles and let them govern themselves.
Which is pretty much all I try and accomplish in these daily missives. Pass along what I've learnt.
One thing I've learnt - such a fun word! - is of all the upgrades you can do to your bike the one that will make the biggest difference and give you the most bang for your buck is wheels...
Which is why I'm so excited about our $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway... somebody, maybe you, is gonna get a serioso upgrade.
... but, the other thing I've found is giving your body an upgrade is even more important which is why I preach so much about PR Lotion and the HyperVolt. PR Lotion removes the burn I feel when getting after it on the bike and the HyperVolt gets into my damaged muscles every evening after said getting after it has been gotten after.
Get entered.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
Every dollar purchase you make between now and 12/31 gets you an additional entry into the drawing... but you have to enter.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4358429438
RELEASE YOUR KRAKEN!
Nov 17, 2020
by TODD BROWN
i'M TRYING TO PUT INTO WORDS WHAT IT FELT LIKE TODAY... we were charging up this undulating climb. I was struggling to hang... going from the front to the back of the group, then off the back, then back on... and as the top got closer I started to feel better.
I moved up a bit.
Finally, we could see the top... and I just thought to myself...
Screw it, I'm going for it.
And why not? Even though the ride was far from over, even though I'd pay for it for miles to come... I had to do it, had to unleash my Kraken, come what may.
It felt so good to go all out, to win that tiny hill top.
Later in the ride, at a crucial moment, I was dropped. I never caught back on. And, I didn't care one bit.
That little win powered me all day.
#worthit.
You know what win might power you all day, all week, all month, all year?
The $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway
Have you entered?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
It won't hurt, I promise.
Just click the link and check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.6 lbs
Stretch N Hypervolt
6 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4351617761
ONLY KEEP THE JERSEYS THAT TALK.
Nov 16, 2020
by TODD BROWN
THE FACT IS WE'VE ALL GOT A DRAWER FULL OF OLD RACE JERSEYS... that any normal person would toss. But we won't, ever. We might pare it down from time to time, but they'll always be a few keepers.
We keep the ones that talk... that remind of that day when... that ride.. that win... that team...
... those are the only ones of value.
They're also the ones my friend Brett collects, the ones that belong to his world famous Horton Collection.
Not yours... but the jerseys of the truly great racers from the last 100 years.
And not just the jerseys, but the photos and posters and trophies... and we're lucky enough to use some of the images for our products.
Check these images we're using for a new RaceDay Bag™ called The Tour... all from epic Tour de France battles.
We're already in production on the first batch and will be shipping them in a few weeks.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/horton-collection/products/the-tour-raceday-bag
We have other Horton Collection products in the pipeline... and the excellent news is any purchase of these products will get you in the...
Have you entered yet? It's so easy.
Just click here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.4
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4346807518
TOP SECRET TRAINING REPORT - DIRTY 30 PREP
Nov 15, 2020
by TODD BROWN
HEY THERE RACERS... it's The Old Diesel's helmet checking in. I can accurately report that he's been working his fanny off since getting shelled last month at the Cactus Cup...
... remember that pathetic video he posted?
Oh, he was completely shattered.
Not surprising.
He was overconfident... thought he could handle the heat, thought his legs were ready for that unrelenting desert terrain, thought he'd show the yokels his CA style...
... oh, he had that beating coming.
But, good news!
Yesterday he casually mentioned posting a good time on a famous climb. He PRd it. Yeah, broke a 7 year old record by 10 seconds. I know, it's not much on a 54 minute effort, but give him a break. His carbon is a bit dated.
Anyway, it would be a good sign, except...
... in a celebratory moment of weakness he pounded a pint of McConnell's.
What a dummy!
Today wasn't much better, sure he fasted until Noon, ate a light lunch...
... but, then Surfergirl busted out the chips and the kids all came over for barbecue and pie and more ice cream.
He's going to wake up fat and ticked off tomorrow.
I like it when he's like that, because we ride fast. Probably too fast for a Monday, meaning his legs are going to be heavy for the Tuesday Morning World Championships... and even worse for DRTY WDNSDY.
Oh it's gonna be a helluva week... him wanting to undue his bad deeds.
Personally, I'm not sure the old guy has it in him to post a fast time in 3 weeks at the Dirty 30. Especially not if he keeps falling off the wagon.
The only hope is something he keeps in the house. I'm not sure what it is exactly, but he says it's made his legs feel like magic. Maybe that explains the PR Saturday... and being able to pound it hard last Tuesday and Wednesday?
I think it's this thing he's raving about, the HyperVolt...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/recovery
If it is... don't share his results with others. Just get the dern thing for yourself and keep it on the downlow.
Promo code: REKUVR
PS... apparently the HyperVolt will get you 700 Entries into the $3000 ENVE™ Wheel Giveaway.
---
164.2
Stretch and HyperVolt
8 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4344250934
I BLEED IT OUT
Nov 14, 2020
by TODD BROWN
IT'S CHILDS PLAY TO BLEED SPEEDING DOWNHILL, it's helluva lot harder to do it charging up a technical single track. Amiright? I mean it was 10 miles, 3451' of vert, and no I didn't crash...
... we were just hauling gas.
We stopped at the top.
I looked down and my arms were covered in blood.
It didn't hurt. Nothing hurt. That's the kind of day we had today.
Determined to break my old bad habit of slowly building speed on this type of climb, I raced to the trailhead first with 2 of my mostfastest friends glued to my perfectly aired up knobbies.
Knowing they'd be eversoslightly peeved that I'd snuck ahead, I just went for it. Charging hard. So unlike The Old Diesel. Their gasps of What the! only urged me on... making me pedal even harder. Something I'd never do if I were going for a PR.
It's good to break habits.
Normally, I'd let my pals go first and gap me and then do my derndest to reel them back in.
Never again.
Why... well, I've got a few MTB races on my radar and those races can be won or lost by being at the front or back of the pack at the first single track.
I did a few other things besides slay it right from the start:
- I'm lighter than I have been in years.
- All week I've hit my legs with the HyperVolt.
- I woke up early and warmed up my legs in a hot bath.
- Liberally applied PR Lotion.
- The intermittent fasting seems to have altered the way my body consumes and needs calories. I'm consuming less on the rides and feeling better.
- Cranked up Linkin Park's Bleed It Out to get pumped.
- The new BMC 4 Stroke is by far the best XC bike I've ever ridden.
Interestingly I didn't:
- Eat a big breakfast, just a handful of nuts.
- Warm up at all on the bike, just drove over and got after it.
And that blood on my arms?...
... well it wasn't from fighting a mountain lion as I hinted on the Instagram post, which a few folks believed... hahahahaha
This climb is called the San Juan Trail and it's lined with a very hearty and thorny scrub brush... cut the corners and it snags and slices your skin.
Doesn't hurt at all, just looks awesome when it mixes with the sweat on your arms.
After the ride Jimmy came over and said...
I really hope I win those ENVE™ wheels so I can keep up with you.
He might.
You might.
Someone will.
Do you know why we love ENVE™ wheels... it ain't just their sexy name, or because their lighter or more aero or faster... and those are all dern good reasons, but not good enough.
We love ENVE™ wheels because when it's on the line, they give peace of mind.
Have you entered?
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
It won't hurt, I promise.
Just click the link and check it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/3000-enve-wheel-giveaway
---
163.3 lbs
Stretch N Hypervolt
7.3 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/4338266395
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