HOW TO OVERCOME INJURY
I'VE BEEN ASKED TWICE TODAY if I had any feelings of Why me? after my brain injury. And, how did I overcome that? Well, good questions because...
... we all gotta battle through the shiz.
During the darkest days, I only had one thought.
How can I fix this?
We've all been dealt multiple bad hands over the years, and if we think about it...
... we often come through them stronger, better.
It never seems like it at the time.
Our challenges, I believe, are our challenges, for a reason.
As rotten as they appear...
... they are personalized gifts.
If they weren't for our benefit and didn't totally suck,
they'd be easy to overcome,
requiring little effort,
personal growth,
or change.
With that in mind, I set about studying and researching how best to recover from this unplanned set back.
There's plenty of improvement still to be made...
... and that's exciting as hell!
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166.7
8ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses + other stuff
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
79
>
GIMME SHELTER
THERE AIN'T NOTHING LIKE A TAILWIND to blow the group to pieces. The palms were bending, for sure...
... this one was gonna hurt.
It's counter intuitive.
But, it goes like this.
Alone, a tailwind feels nice.
A chance to tap lightly on the pedals and fly along.
In a group, it's whole different game.
The strong go to the front and drill it.
'problem is, there's no draft,
no place to hide,
no rest.
Which is exactly how it went down today.
Three of us were rotating.
Hard pulls.
It felt terrible,
and great.
Nobody else was pulling through.
I didn't blame 'em,
it was hard as heck.
I glanced back...
... gap was 30 feet.
Then 300 feet.
Then, a slight bend in the road,
an every so tiny gap opened, and...
... I was ejected.
Just couldn't close it.
No draft.
How was the ride back up the coast into the wind?
Well, alone it woulda been a bear.
In the group, much easier.
Sure the brief moment pulling through stung a bit, then...
... it was right back to the shelter.
So, there you have it.
Tailwind, get on the front and get a gap.
Headwind, take it easy, nothings getting away.
---
168.4
9ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
78
>
DO LESS, AND OBSESS
CAN'T GET THIS CONCEPT OUTTA MY MIND, not because I've never considered it, because it's so darn rhymey. I coudn't say it better...
... Do less, and obsess.
Maybe I just needed to hear the message?
The idea of having 1 (one) 'A' race a year has always turned me on...
- It's more fun to have one focus
- dive into the nittygritty
- get granular
- geek out
... that's the shift I love.
Yeah, I might end up with a bike that's not good for much but a particular course,
training that is so specialized as to be worthless for everything else.
But, that's the point.
To be so singular,
to be uniquely prepared.
Then, and only then, I might have a chance...
... and that's all the hope I need.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to treat...
... all other races as distractions at best.
Places to test...
- equipment
- strategy
- training
... nothing more.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to commit...
... to training blocks and weight lifting.
When I'm that locked in, it's easy to see...
... the big picture.
To do less,
and obsess.
---
168.7
8ish hrs Sleep
20 pullups 60 pushups 15 shoulder presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
76
>
HE'S TRYING TO KILL ME
THE POOR WOMAN WAS RED IN THE FACE, if looks could kill her guide/date would be dead. They'd just cleared a very overgrown jungle and were now pushing their bikes up a rocky stretch...
... who could blame her?
Who could blame him?
Sometimes our sense of adventure...
... is total nonsense.
I could only laugh.
Don't kill him here, you need to get home first!
They had a ways to go.
We have about 5 weeks to prep for the SurfNSummit.
Yeah, it's far.
Lots of climbing.
But, still I'm surprised at how many people misjudge what it takes.
Some, think it's just impossible to complete...
... usually my most fit friends.
Others, show up with what appears to be no business attempting it...
... but, hope and the desire to do something epic.
It's one of those Henry Ford moments.
Whether you think can, or think you can't...
... you're right.
So, if you think you can ride 100+ miles with 15,000+ feet of climbing...
... click here to check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/free-registration-for-the-surf-n-summit-california-5-18-24
---
168.2
9ish hrs Sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
76er
>
AN OBSERVATION ON UNEVEN POWER BETWEEN LEGS
ONE OF THE SETTINGS ON MY POWER METER shows the power put out by each leg. It can def ovewhelm for an entire ride, because we can...
... freak out about data we don't like.
It's on one of my Wahoo screens.
I see it from time to time on a ride.
Consciously trying to even out the power was annoying the heck out of me.
One leg was always stronger, unless I reallyreallyreallyreally focused.
Then, I had an idea.
Something to try,
that I used to do.
This came to me when I noticed standing and climbing,
power was always 50/50.
Hmmmm.
What's the difference?
Then I noticed,
same thing when it got steep and I really had to put out some power.
Well, that was nice to see...
... somewhat calming.
Hmmmm...
... how to do that all the time?
Welp, this is just an observation.
It might not work for you.
Meter could be mismonitoring, but this makes all the difference in the world...
... when I consciously focus on pedaling with the heels down.
What?
Really?
Yes.
What I think is happening is I'm eliminating a dead spot along the top of my pedal stroke...
... gonna verify with my genius bike fitter, Ashley.
---
167.3
8ish hrs Sleep
No Strength Work
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
78
>
THE WHAT AND WHY OF A PROPER EZ SPIN
I'VE BEEN TRYING TO GET THE LEGS TO COME AROUND, which means I had to actually dedicate myself to do some easy spins. Because, like most of us it's just...
... darn hard to go easy.
Or, is it just me?
First off, what constitutes an easy spin?
Two things:
- Low effort
- High rpm's
How low?
Very bottom of Zone 2, or anything in Zone 1.
How high?
90-100+ rpm's.
Why?
Well, one of my early coaches called it a Rinse Ride for a reason.
If we are really doing it correctly,
our legs feel all clean and springy because...
... we rinsed out the crud.
Why else?
- It's good on the brain
- Takes the pressure off, simply relaxing
- Great time to catch up with friends and chat while spinning
How long?
45-90 min seems about right.
The things we think about when we're just spinnin' ez.
---
166.9
8ish hrs Sleep
Just PullUps and PushUps today
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
73
>
EVER HAD THE CRUD BEAT OUT OF YOU, FOR REAL?
GROWING UP, we fought a lot. We were too weak to do much physical damage, but there was plenty of pride and shame on the line. It's not much different now...
... when we race.
If we truly get the crud beat out us by...
- the course
- the competition
- our worse, ourselves
... there is only one question.
Did we really get it beat out of us?
Or, are we destined to get pummeled over and over again because...
... the crud is still there?
Is our diet a joke?
Do our handling skills still stink?
Does our bike squeak and wobble?
'Cause if that crud is still there, then...
... it's not beat out of us.
We've just learned to live with mediocrity...
... and that's just plain cruddy.
---
167.8
8ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
74
>
IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER ROAD PEDALS FOR OFFROAD?
WHEN I WAS PRE-RIDING LEADVILLE a while back, the phenom who would shatter the course record floated by me as I labored. He made it look so easy...
... was it the pedals?
99% of MTB racers,
dismount on that course.
There is no way they'd sport road shoes and pedals,
even though they are...
- Lighter
- More aero
- Offer better contact and efficiency
... because once fouled they're VERY difficult to get engaged.
Gravel,
is another deal.
Unless we are pushing the boundaries,
ripping single track,
slaloming sand...
... we're not going to dismount.
The only time would be if crashed,
or unclipped to rutter a turn.
In most gravel races,
that's not likely.
So, should we run the road set up offroad?
I have multiple friends who roll the dice in local XC races...
... and even the long, epic stuff.
It almost always works out great.
Worth the risk?
Up to you.
Worth testing?
100%.
---
167.6
7.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
74
>
HAVE YOU EVER TRIED TRAINING BIG BLOCKS?
A QUESTION CAME UP LAST NIGHT ON OUR ZOOM CALL. Have you ever trained big training blocks like Keegan Swenson just posted. Good question...
... does it work?
Maybe.
Here's what I can tell you from personal experience.
18 months ago, I was prepping for my insane time goal at Leadville.
I was really committed.
Holed up in Breckinridge all by myself,
for the month prior.
It's easy to be selfish with the time,
when you're by yourself.
The race is in August.
In July, I did..
- 20 hours
- 22 hours
- 25 hours
... a lot more than my normal 10-12 hours a week.
It was very race specific training.
Lots of Zone 2.
Recovery
was key.
I came out of that in awesome shape,
and had the best race
of
my
life.
Does it work for everybody?
I have no idea.
But, I'll definitely do it again when prepping for a once in a life quest.
----
168.9
7.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
73
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THINGS TO CHECK FIRST...
THERE ARE A FEW THINGS THAT CAN MAKE OR BREAK a race, the chief being the bike. Bikes don't win races, but they sure can make things a lot harder...
... or a lot easier.
As I went through my checklist, I found a few issues:
- Rear brake pad smoked
- Sealant dried out
- Battery low
It's kinda nice to have brakes that work, especially with a ripping downhill like Saturday's.
The course should be in pretty good shape, but that doesn't mean a small wire or piece of glass couldn't be a day-ender without sealant.
And c'mon...
... ya can't ride these modern bikes without good batteries.
And, I'm not just talking about the derailleur batteries. Many of the shifters have their own small batteries.
I have made the mistake of not checking the shifter batteries.
Heck, I didn't even know about them until the start of the Filthy 50 a couple of years ago. I didn't warm up, just saddled up and headed to the start.
Typically MTB XC start... everybody pinned to get to the single track first...
... I got there last.
Shifter was dead, I was spun out and then spit out.
15 minutes later, with some help from the mechanic on site, I was back at it.
Which is exactly why I came up with the RaceDay Bike Checklist, and made it into a sticker.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-checklist-stickers
For about a year now we've been shipping the stickers out with each RaceDay Bag purchase. They're great for tool boxes and benches.
Here's a link to check 'em out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/raceday-ready™-checklist-stickers
----
168.7
8.5ish hrs Sleep
2 Rip On RaceDay Circuits
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
71
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE HEROIC MOVE
THERE'S A LOT OF GREAT RACING GOING ON. Locally, regionally, internationally. Sometimes we witness the unfathomable attack from impossibly far out, other times...
... a second or third wind, for the win.
By inches.
We shouldn't be impressed.
I'm mean,
it's cool.
We all cheer.
But the truth is the victory was secured long ago.
When nobody was cheering.
It was dark,
lonely,
cold.
The alarm was more drill sergeant, than fan.
In those moments...
... the heroes make their moves.
If we're lucky,
we witness the results.
---
169.1
9ish hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
72
>
IT'S LIKE THE SUN GOING UP ON ME
40 DEGREES, 80% HUMIDITY ain't nothing. Combine that with a dawn start, the sun hidden behind the hills, and, well, when you're going 20+ mph in your underpants...
... it's bonechilly.
I left the knee warmers behind.
No vest.
No jacket.
Just arm warmers,
a base layer,
skull cap.
It's risky,
we might freeze,
this is how we do it...
... when we know sunny times are ahead.
So are they?
Whether we are enjoying the longer days,
recovering from an injury,
just getting back at it...
... we hope and plan for...
- better fitness
- decreased fatness
- all things to improve
... it's a process.
And, we know it.
Just like the sun coming up,
we imperceptibly rise to the occasion.
That's how today was for me.
Still got dropped,
but made it a little further.
I'll take it.
Here's a snapshot of where things stand.
There's nothing like a good fitness journey.
How's yours going?
---
168.7
8ish hrs sleep
10 Pullups 30 Pushups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
73 (per training peaks)
>
MY DUMBEST PREDICTION YET
PARIS-ROUBAIX IS SUNDAY. I can't wait. It's always so fun to watch, and such a battle of machine, mind, and bike handling. Lots of drama, and this year...
... is starts before the famed Arenberg Forest.
The forest is always crazy.
Mud.
Cobbles.
A massive battle for the front ensues for those who want the best chance of getting through with the lead group...
... unscathed.
This year, the organizers decide a chicane right before entering the forest would be a good idea.
Less dangerous.
I looked at the layout.
Here's my prediction.
Rather than racing for the forest entrance to avoid carnage...
... they will race to the chicane.
And...
- have plenty of lycra on the pavement.
- or in the barriers
- or both.
... I hope I'm wrong.
Then, we have to wonder, at least I do, what is the point of racing?
Call me crazy, but I think part of it is to show bike handling prowess.
We're still gonna see it with the chicane.
Just seems like a little chicanery...
... to appease, who?
---
169.1
8 hrs sleep
15 Pullups 50 Pushups 40 Shoulder Press... no legs today.
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
BLOOD. WORK.
DON'T BE LIKE ME. Because I never get sick, I never go to the doctor. Which meant I never had my blood work done. You're too smart for that...
... here's why.
By regularly getting the blood work done, we have a baseline for "our" normal.
I don't have that.
When I had the brain injury a few months ago,
things changed.
The brain is our command center, telling the body what to produce and control and do, etc.
A brain injury often causes issues with how the body is regulated.
Today, we reviewed my blood work which was drawn a few weeks ago.
Some markers are out of range - too high on some, too low on others.
Bad news is...
... I have no reference point of "my" normal.
Could be genetic, could be from the injury.
Good news is...
... we know where I'm at, and have some corrective measures to take.
Bonus, most indicators are positive for my body, and with my overall health.
Dr. Cory King, my functional health doctor from Encinitas, went over it all with me.
Nothing too scary...
... but definitely areas to not ignore.
Things like cholesterol levels, vitamin levels, etc. that can have negative effects if left untreated.
So, we'll chock this up as another blessing from my brain injury.
Regardless of your awesome health.
Find out where you are at,
things can probably be improved.
Consider this a gentle and loving nudge from me to you...
... get the blood work done.
---
169.4
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
CHEAT CODE
HERE'S A DIRTY LITTLE SECRET. Okay, maybe it's not all that dirty but it is secret and fact is it's...
... a cheat code for life.
There's a reason we get out and do our thing.
Sure, it's great to be in shape.
Have that come what may attitude.
Fact is, even though the fitness is great...
... there's something better.
- The problems we solve
- Ideas we come up with
- Freedom to think
We often, nearly always, return...
... renewed.
Ready
To
Kicka$$
Even when,
especially when...
... we've rung out our body's energy supply.
---
169.1
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
STRUGGLING WITH WEIGHT... TRY NOT
SINCE MY AWESOME START TO THE YEAR, knocking myself out and spending a 5 days in ICU, my metabolism has changed. This is not uncommon, given the standard protocols...
... and now I'm pissed.
I didn't ask for this, and that is not the problem.
I haven't asked for a solution.
I have forgotten my own wisdom.
Well, on the eve of my bday, yesterday, I was asked...
... What do you want?
Get my lycracovered buns back in fighting shape.
I went to bed with a question...
... How do I get back to my normal, leanish self?
I woke up with an answer.
A book recommendation appeared on my Kindle.
Feast., Fast. Fit. by Fred Duncan.
It wasn't new information for me.
Heck, I preach it.
It's worked in the past.
I believe it will work again.
The lesson?
It isn't get on the diet train...
... it's ask the right questions,
and expect answers.
- How can I get lean?
- How can I climb faster?
- How can I stay cool in the blistering heat?
- How can I complete a century without bonking?
- How can I reduce the drag created by my bike and body?
Try not.
Ask or ask not.
---
170.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
70
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THOU SHALT CARE FOR THY HANDS
TAKING CARE OF THE HANDS is importante. Road, is pretty straight forward. So is MTB. Gravel, well, it's got it's own challenges...
... what can we do?
I've seen plenty of ruined hands...
- brutal gripshift blisters
- palms filled with asphalt gravelly stuff
- a thumb's skin pealed from under the nail past the first knuckle
... all of it could have been spared with gloves.
Personally, I prefer very lightweight fullfinger gloves.
But, that ain't gonna help on the gravel bike.
No suspension.
What can we do?
I double wrap my bars with a good soft tape.
- helps with vibration
- displaces pressure points across a wider area
I was reminded of how great this is just last week.
It'd been a while since I'd ridden the roadie, been riding the gravel bike on and off road a ton.
As soon as I got going the bars felt weird.
Sharp.
Oh yeah, the single wrap bar.
It's lighter.
More aero.
But, I'd never go back to a single wrap on the gravel bike.
---
170.5
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and pushups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
WHICH NUMBERS ARE WE CHASING?
THERE'S A BIG DIFFERENCE between the kinds of numbers some of us focus on putting up. Some chase big power numbers, while others chase small numbers...
... what's the corresponding motivation?
You know.
Are we more interested in the low numbers: 1st, 2nd, 3rd...
... or, increasing our own personal power numbers?
Do we need everybody to see us on the podium...
... or, are we thrilled when we privately snag a new PR?
We can go out to the race,
or we can design our own incredible adventure.
We can train to beat everybody,
or our training can help us live our best lives.
They're not necessarily mutually exclusive,
there are four seasons for a reason.
---
169
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
IS IT TIME TO STOP BINGING?
SATURDAYS ARE MY DAYS. All week long, I look forward to getting up early and rolling out with no particular plan but wasting time via hours in the saddle...
... I call it binge riding.
Not today.
It was raining
When that happens on the 6th day of the week,
my day,
I'm typically grumpy.
This time,
I was looking forward to it.
Why?
Honestly, I'd been binge riding too much.
Too many days in a row spent
slipping out after work
staying out too long...
... the time change being my enabler.
I was unconsciously due for a break.
Some call it overtrained...
... overbinged is more accurate,
for me.
---
168.2
7.5 hrs sleep
Lots of pull ups, pushups and squats.
10 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
68
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE OL' WHAT IF YOU KNEW...
THESE TWO PUNKS SHOWED UP TO MY HOUSE, and dragged their dear ol' dad out for his favorite thing. Riding MTBs with them...
... that wasn't the best part.
Sure, it was fun to keep up with 'em.
Mostly.
Then, completely overdoing it at Cheesecake factory.
The best part was dropping by the Audi store...
... and hotrodding around in a $70k RS3.
So.
Dang.
Fast!
It's good to get in the dream car, and throw it around some corners...
... to keep the dreams alive.
But, what if it wasn't a dream.
What if...
... you knew you could PR any segment, win any race?
What would it be?
If we don't know,
can't quickly answer the question..
... likely not going to happen.
But,
what
if
we
knew...
... then,
what would we do with today's training?
---
1680
7.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
JUST BECAUSE IT'S FREE MEANS...
SO MUCH INFORMATION, and so much of it free. Free is a weird price, because we know it's gonna cost time and there's probably...
... an ask down the road.
Don't be fooled.
Sometimes the really expensive stuff is great,
sometimes it's terrible.
Same for free.
Price is a signal.
Should we be swayed?
I recently got an offer to save 30% on a $6000 frame.
6K!!!...
... must be awesome.
Maybe.
But, how do we know?
Really?
The glossy magazine ad?
The pro riding it to a win?
It can be frustrating.
When it comes right down to it, most of us...
... are swayed by our friends' reviews.
Like these -> https://pedalindustries.com/pages/reviews...
... which I'm extremely grateful for.
---
168.3
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
DOES YOUR DOG BITE?
THE GREAT INSPECTOR CLOUSEAU encounter with a dog is classic. The dog is off leash, he asks Does your dog bite? The answer is, No. He bends to pet the dog...
... only to have the dog viciously latch on to his hand!
I thought you said your dog does not bite?
That is not my dog.
I thought about that since Surfergirl has...
- demanded
- pleaded
- asked
... that I let her track me on my rides.
I feel like a dog on a leash.
The Jason Bourne in me wants none of that.
There's nothing to hide,
when I ride.
But, really?
She does have a point.
I often venture into the wild.
Signs with warnings of mountain lions and snakes about.
Trails are often treacherous to the bike,
and potentially me.
Humans few and far between.
If, if, if I should need a rescue,
which I never have...
... I'll just need two things.
A cell signal...
... and a friend who cares.
It's kinda romantic when ya think about it,
guess we're doing all right.
---
168.2
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
69
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
HOW MY LITTLE PRACTICE LOOP TOOK ME DOWN
I SET OFF TO POUND MY PRACTICE LOOP. The profile is jagged, lots of single track, and...
... I'm trying to crack 90 minutes.
Today's failure is why it's so important to practice racing.
Here's the dill.
This course is very hard to stay fueled on...
... almost impossible to drink, forget about eating.
Which meant I was tuckered out, with 4 miles to go. The last 30ish minutes are pretty dern steep.
With about 20 minute warm up,
winging it on 1/2 bottle and 100 calories was a weak effort.
Just not enough.
Strava called a Massive Relative Effort,
giving the workout a score of 192.
I'll try it again in a couple of weeks.
This time with 400 calories,
and 30 ounces of water,
in a Camelbak.
There just isn't time to suck on a bottle,
the bladder hose is easy to grab,
and once in my mouth,
handsfree.
Ya can't figure that out without simulating what ya might be racing...
... in real world conditions.
---
169.1 lbs (dropping some of these will speed things up, too)
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
SPEED AND BRAKES, NOT ALWAYS OBVIOUS
THERE'S A TECHNICAL, ROCKY SECTION on part of a local trail. First-timers walk it, new riders use a slow approach, locals...
... let it rip.
They know something.
Speed makes it much easier to glide over the the treachery.
It's counterintuitive.
Disc brakes are the same way.
They rub.
We pry 'em apart and reinsert the wheel.
Soon into the ride they are rubbing again.
Why?
The pads are worn out.
You'd think they would stop touch the disc or barely work when running thin.
That's the way rim brakes work when the pads are worn down.
Not discs.
Counterintuitive.
Which why we alwaysalwaysalways check our brake pads before a race...
... so we hit the tricky stuff with speed.
---
167.9 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
66
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
DO YOU D.H.T.?
WE MAY NOT BE PRO. Our equipment may be lacking, our preparation woeful, our focus far from singular...
... which makes it all the more impressive.
When we, you and me...
... Do Hard Things.
Just like the pros,
but on a whole other level.
They level up,
get a pay check.
Our objective has nothing to do with money, and...
... everything to do with commitment.
Here's the cool part.
People see it.
Our family, friends, work associates, neighbors, etc.
They get inspired.
Maybe not to ride 100 miles or run a marathon or do an Ironman.
Doesn't matter.
The ability to D.H.T. can be applied to anything...
- changing diapers in the middle of the night
- studying instead of clubbing
- making 100 cold calls/day
- working 80 hrs a week for a season
- pushing a car off to the side of the road
- leading volunteers to repair after a disaster strikes
... once we learn we have it within us.
---
169.1 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
No strength work today
10 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
66
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
WE NEED A METRIC FOR THIS
THE FIRST TIME I SAW SHIMANO'S INTEGRATED SHIFTING, dubbed SIS, I knew there was no chance in a sprint without it. Sure we'd perfected the lost of art of...
... sprinting, letting go of the handlebars with one hand to shift.
But, what was the point?
It was useless.
Shimano changed the game, all because...
... Gripshift had changed the game.
Gripshift morphed into SRAM.
Shimano gave us electric shifting.
SRAM did it better with wireless.
How is that my new Kindle got me thinking of this?
Simple.
Kindle changes the reading game.
Which got me thinking about another game changer, Training Peaks.
It's pretty cool.
All kinds of data.
But, one metric is missing and would...
... be so funny to have.
A measurement for how bad a ride sucks...
- Freezing rain
- Frying pan heat
- Mile long hike-a-bike
- Gail force headwinds
- Countless mechanicals
... indicating our badassness for getting it done,
not quitting.
For example, we rolled the dice this morning on a 38% chance of rain.
No big deal, right?
3 hours in, we face another hour of driving headwind and relentless rain...
... the suckometer was needling past halfway.
- Hands were edging towards inoperable.
- Too wet and involved to eat carbs
- Feet sloshing
Not terrible.
But, somewhere on the ride data it woulda been nice to see...
... the badassometer read out.
Just fer fun.
See where the day's suckiness ranked against other such rides over time.
Time to go back the Kindle...
... under the blankies.
Me still cold.
---
167.9 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
67
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
LEARNING TO RIP FROM MARCH MADNESS
BALL AND STICK SPORTS are typically concerned with, and built around, offense and defense. How do we...
... apply that thinking to our endurance addictitions?
Do we have offense?
Defense?
Yep.
Offense
- Riding, running swimming time
- Weight lifting
- Racing and competitive group rides
- Upgrading equipment - new, shiny stuff
- Hiring a coach
- Fine tuning the bike fit
- Developing our handling skills
Defense
- Recovery work
- Sleep
- Proper nutrition
- Accountability partner(s)
- Equipment maintenance
- Stretching
- Allies to work with when falling behind
And before you say I've misplaced one of those, we all know...
... the best defense is offense and visa versa.
That's not the point.
The point is to figure out...
... how to incorporate a great offense and defense in our limited time.
---
167.8 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
Just pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
TWO OF LIFE'S MYSTERIES
THERE TWO MYSTERIES THAT SCIENCE can't explain. AI doesn't have the answer, either. But's they are facts just the same. For example...
... why do beginners get all the flats?
Riddle me that one LycraMan.
You know it's true.
You know if you invite a new, excitedtobethere, rider along, there's gonna be a flat.
Waywaywayway more often than the experienced riders will experience.
Makes no sense.
Just like why more bike shops don't have a comfy couch to wait for that...
.... just a few more minutes...
repair.
Maybe a coffee table showcasing
- A colorful catalog of their favorite products
- Samples of their go to sports drinks or things to chomp
- Gotta have tools to check out
I was thinking of another mystery as I swapped out my worn disc brake pads...
... why more of us don't learn the basics of maintenance.
---
168.7 lbs (the struggle is real)
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
180 minutes reading + Journaling
63
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THE PRIDE CYCLE QUEST
WHAT HAVE YOU DONE THAT YOU'RE PROUD OF? Could be anything, but let's stay on point with athletic endeavors because it's important...
... to harness this concept.
The Pride Cycle Quest.
It's also dangerous,
if we let it get the best of us.
For me, at least, it's all about the quest.
Can I do it?
And, it's a cycle...
- Pick the outrageous result to chase
- Train for it.
- Do it.
... and pick another quest.
I don't really care if anybody else thinks it's cool,
so few understand us anyway.
It's internal.
Am I proud of that result?
It's only dangerous if we are chasing likes and kudos and cheers...
... from the world.
It's not about that.
It's about the quest.
It's personal.
I'm happiest when I have at least one per year.
That's my cycle of pride.
---
167.9 lbs
7.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
CHASING GHOSTS
PATHS BECOME TRAILS, trails become roads, roads become highways. It's evolution, and underneath it all are the ghosts...
... who got it started.
We think we're blazing a trail,
when we are really just going along with the crowd.
I was thinking about the day my longgone granpappy came to watch me race a criterium.
It was all new to me.
We wizzed past him every lap.
But, the laps were long...
... and he could barely see at that stage.
Afterwards, he told me how it was years before, when he was young.
I thought it would be in a velodrome and I'd be able to see you entire race.
Clueless me had no idea velodrome racing was the only bicycle racing 100 years ago.
Prior to that, it was racing bicycles long distance, on dusty...
... gravel roads.
In other words, we gone from...
- gravel
- to velodrome
- to road
- to bmx
- to mtb
- to gravel
... so why is gravel "new"?
It's not.
We're all just chasing ghosts who've gone before.
---
168 lbs
8.25 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
62
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
THIS AIN'T NO TIME FOR FOOLING AROUND
WHAT IS THE BASELINE? The minimum effort to do and consider the week a win? It's important to have the least acceptable effort in mind...
... and make it happen.
Riding in the rain will make you think things like that.
Like, why the heck am I doing this?
Which is exactly what I was thinking as the skies opened an hour away from home.
Because I made a plan.
A public commitment.
Accountability.
Yesterday, in the sunshine and 72 degrees I committed to do the following this week:
- 15 pull ups, 50 push ups, 10 squats daily
- Ride 14 hours this week
- Drop 3 lbs
Easy to do when the weather is good,
and the day lazy.
The public commit was to the RaceDay Rippers,
who also hold me accountable each week when we check in.
I'm two months out from my next quest, the SurfNSummit.
The plan is on my RaceDay Calendar.
Some say Show me your calendar and I'll know what important to you...
... and yes, Date Night better be on there each week.
We have a few of the Giant RaceDay Calendars left, and you can save 25% since a quarter of the year is nearly past by using promo code:
CAL25OFF
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-black-2024-giant-raceday-calendar
Here is the code:
CAL25OFF
Nod to the great Talking Heads for the inspiration
This is ain't no party, this ain't no disco, this ain't no time for foolin' around
---
168.9 lbs
9 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit + extra pull ups and push ups
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
59
Do you want to Rip On Raceday?
>
HOW TO STAY SLOW...
IT'S SUPER EASY TO STAY SLOW, and just as easy to stay fast. To stay slow, do what your slow friends do and...
... expect to get fast.
The problem with actually getting fast,
nobody gives you credit.
For the most part, they can't see or appreciate, and will never know...
... how hard we work.
And, we've got to be okay with that.
To commence,
recognition be damned.
To be fast, do what you fast friends do...
... and expect to get fast.
Do.
Expect.
168.4 lbs
7.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
10 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
58
>
WWDGD?! - 25 WEEKS TO GO
I FELT GOOD ENOUGH THIS WEEK TO DREAM of getting my fitness back and setting unrealistic goals. Is there anything better than that? Getting to a place to...
... dare to go for it.
After pushing hard for nearly 3 hours, we had a choice.
Take it easy or do the hurtful climb?
500' in a mile doesn't sound like much...
... unless it's the last climb of a fast day.
We were gonna skip it, and then Love Watts yelled...
... WWDGD!
Huh?
What Would David Goggins Do?!
There was no choice at that point, because all of us have streeeeeeeeetch goals this summer.
It was fine.
Slower than I'd like...
... but, compared to last week waywayway better.
And so the journey begins.
The countdown to Gravel Nationals.
Here's where I'm at.
You can see my fitness score at the very bottom.
Down from over 50%, 18 months ago.
Weight, 168ish.
Up 10 lbs, 18 months ago.
Vision is still messed up.
Way off from what I considered one of my few advantages racing off road.
Can I be ready September 8th, 2024?
It's gonna be fun,
and frustrating.
WWDGD?
Go for it.
Every
single
freakin'
opportunity.
168.2 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
60
>
WHEN THE RACE PLAN GOES TO HECK IN A HANDLEBAR
IT WAS A ROUGH START, things weren't going smoothly at all. It was causing a lot of stress and internal turmoil. Energy I'd hoped to reserve for...
... more important sections of the event.
Ayyyy, what to do?
What I always do...
... but, forget to do.
Think of of the things going right...
- I felt good
- I'd started on time
- My prep was perfect
... other words be grateful for the good.
My energy shifted.
I calmed down.
Focused on getting down to business.
Wound up having a spectacular day...
... at the office.
Tomorrow's race should go a lot better, and if it doesn't...
... I know what to do.
168.2 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
Push Ups and Pull Ups
20 minutes recovery
600 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
YOU INSURED FOR THAT?
WELL, THE BILLS ARE COMING and I'm thinking about you and me. For years I've looked at health insurance as lame. Struggled mentally, sometimes economically...
... to pay that everlarger bill.
Why?
I never get sick.
Rarely, and I mean rarely, do I see a doctor.
I'm already doing all they would recommend to get better...
- eat good
- skip sugar
- get plenty of rest
- and workout regularly
... why would I spend the $ on insurance?
It feels like I'm being duped.
Well, there are these events called...
... accidents.
They happen,
and are almost completely unplanned.
So, yeah, my bills are coming in and I'm happy as being at the to of the podium at my A race...
... 'cause it looks like almost all of it covered.
Sucks to be out 1000s...
... but, way better than being out 100s of thousands.
Just putting this out there 'cause I love you...
... get covered, if ya ain't.
====
Side Note: has anybody tried insurance for bike like BikeInsure? Asking for myself, just found out about 'em
167.2 lbs
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
DO YOU LET POWER OR HR DETERMINE YOUR HARD VS EASY DAYS?
I HADN'T WORN MY HR MONITOR FOR DAYS. It wasn't working consistently, so I left it parked in the drawer. Until today, I gave it a shot and it actually worked...
... it got me thinking about the levels of easy.
There's so easy...
- I can barely feel the pedals
- I can sing a song
- I can easily talk
- I am not sure
... and maybe a few more levels.
My goal today was to ride as close to the top of my Zone 2 as possible, without going over...
... the I'm not sure range.
I wasn't sure, because my heart rate was bouncing at the top of the range. Meanwhile...
... my power was definitely over into a higher range quite often.
This is how I trained for decades, when I just had a HR monitor.
What's more important then...
... HR in Zone 2 or Power in Zone 2?
I'm gonna say, for me at least, HR is more important. It is more reflective of how all systems are working given the effort and absorbs the little efforts when the terrain or other elements require a few more watts.
Here's a real world application.
When I'm racing something epic, like Leadville, I'm going off heart rate for my pacing, and using the power meter to keep things in check when I have to dig a little deeper to close a gap or clean a technical uphill section.
The reality is, for peak performance on the long efforts...
... it's good to have both.
If it's a short race, under an hour, well, you know...
... put the dadgum gadget in the back pocket and race on feel.
Same for a long day of adventuring, who cares about the data when we're out there.
Enjoy the ride.
We can analyze later.
---
168. lbs
7.8 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
SHOULD WE DO A HUNDRED RACES IN A YEAR?
YA WANNA GET GOOD, be a boss, strike fear in your frenemies, be the maker of things that happen...
... instead of wondering what happened?
Race.
A lot more.
100 times/year.
Think I'm crazy?
Think it's immmm po siiiiii ble?
Then don't do it.
Don't even try.
Keep wonderin',
misreading the moves.
Or, commit.
Do:
- 2 zwifties
- 2 local races
- 2 group rides
- 2 of your own personal courses for PR
We all have 52 chances a year,
to race twice a week.
No excuses.
Nothing but upside.
Heck, even a brain-damaged guy like me can do it.
This week...
- hammering my xc race loop Tuesday
- group ride on weekend
... slaying myself today, getting crushed by the fellas Saturday.
Gotta start somewhere.
Gonna do what hurts and what I'm comfortable with.
Twice a week.
Oh... I know you're askin'...
... Why 100 times a year?
Because, every race is different.
We'll see a lot of different situations.
We're trying to see 'em all, or have a reallyreallyreally good feel for what is going to happen.
Simple as that.
Experience counts.
Get some.
It's free.
---
168.6 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
55
Are you ready to Rip On Raceday?
>
NOT GONNA LIE
WHEN I FINALLY CAME TO, I had one thing on my mind. Not after first being knocked out, not after the morphine and other meds wore off, days after being home...
... I wanted to say one thing.
Not gonna lie.
I was hurting.
Stunned.
How could my crazy good health take such a drastic turn in seconds...
... this wasn't what I had planned for 2024.
8 weeks later, I'm improving.
I'd leave it there, but...
... not gonna lie.
I'm nowhere near where I was just prior, nor 12 months ago, nor 2 years ago.
I'm off.
I can work 4-5 hours,
then my brain needs a break.
I can ride my bike,
but I have no power,
off-road vision is shift.
I can talk to friends,
until I can't.
Something even more weird happened though.
Something few will admit or acknowledge or maybe even notice...
... when I took that blow to the noggin' it felt like my spirit left my body.
There's a disconnectedness.
I know things aren't quite right.
Will they return or is life just going to be different?
Not gonna lie...
... this is new territory.
Now, I'm being as honest and transparent as possible in all I do.
My friend battling cancer taught me that,
the freedom of being honest.
Yes, I hid it from Surfergirl that on one of my first bike rides alone I was going down the road and thought I saw 4 ducks crossing the road in front of me...
... it was just two,
that's troubling.
Not gonna lie.
I kept riding.
Lying to myself it was all good,
hiding the truth if asked.
What is easier, being honest with ourselves and those around us or pulling the lycra over our eyes and theirs?
To remind myself of my new commitment...
... I made a special kit, see above.
That's the kind of thing I was looking forward to in 2024.
New designs,
new patterns,
new fabrics.
The good newsy stuff.
If you're into the rawness of honesty, maybe you'll like this too.
It's patterned after one of my all-time favorite Porsche's.
Check the full kit here: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/ngl-collection
Use this promo code on this kit to save 30%: NGL30
Code expires on 3.15.24.
---
168.6 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
1 Rip On RaceDay Circuit
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
54
>
HE SWITCHED TEAM, AND IT...
TODAY AN AMERICAN WON PARIS-NICE, an 8-Day stage race in France. A youngun, 25 years old. He'd never done it before, and wasn't picked as a favorite...
... except he picked himself.
A long time ago.
When riding for a less professional, less scientific team he was spending his own cash on equipment and training to up his game.
Something the top teams covered and pursued relentlessly.
He jumped at the chance to upgrade to the current dominant force in European road racing this season.
Would it matter?
I'd say it is clear.
What's interesting is how many of are trapped like a monkey...
... failing to let go, when we know we should.
Not only did he upgrade his team and training, but placed a huge bet on himself in a daring and startling breakaway with fellow US racer Brandon McNulty.
When you are a pro...
... winning actually is everything.
Way to go Mateo Jorgenson.
---
168.4 lbs
9 hrs sleep
No Strength Work
10 minutes recovery
20 minutes reading + Journaling
53
>
HOW TO GET FASTER FOR DUMMIES
APPARENTLY, LOVE WATTS FORGOT our commitment to go easy on the way up the coast. Which meant we had time to do the biggest climb I've done this year...
... 2 hours and 2000' of climbing for our "warm up".
At the usual time, riders flocked in and we were off.
It felt good to do my first group ride of the year...
- to see the guys
- get whooshed along
- and see some higher power numbers
... until the first overpass.
Where I was off the back.
Caught on at a light.
Off again.
On again.
My breathing and wheezing needed a muffler.
On the next power climb, normally 2ish minutes...
... I needed an extra minute or three.
They were gone.
Yeah, they are nowhere near as fast as I am...
... they're a heckuvalot faster.
Am I good with that?
Yeah, they've always been faster than lit'l ol' me.
Now I just need patience to close the gap to where...
... they are less faster.
So, here's the plan that I've used many a year...
... pick a spot beyond where I got popped today.
Make it just a little further each week.
Corner by corner,
Hill by hill.
Progress > Perfection
---
167.6 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
54
>
IT WAS ABOUT THE TRUTH, NOT ARMS RACE
I HATE TIMETRIALS. I mean, I like 'em, but, yeah, I hate 'em. It's not because I'm not great at 'em, and trust me I'm not. It's because...
... they hurt so dang bad.
Not only that, it's...
- lonely
- painful
- humbling
... is there anything more truthful than getting passed by your minute man?
No drafting.
No wily cunning.
Nothing matters except...
... who is the strongest,
and who can suffer the most.
Oh, wait, one more thing matters...
... who's got the most money to afford the most advanced gear.
When everything tiny thing adds time and seconds matter...
... it can turn into an arms race.
I'm okay with that to a point.
Butttttttttt, don't ya think participation would rise...
... if we raced Merckx-style?
At least at the amateur level?
On our road bikes vs tt bikes?
With road helmets?
And "normal" road wheels?
And... you get the point right?
As much as I hate/love a tt, I truly appreciated Tucson Bicycle Classic for making their tt be done on road bikes the last to years.
It's just a lot more fair/approachable/inviting...
... and equally miserable for all.
That's the truth.
Side note: I think I love XC MTB racing because it's basically a mass start time trial. The terrain naturally and quickly separates us.
---
168.4 lbs
8.5 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery
60 minutes reading + Journaling
51
>
WERE YOU AS DORKY AS THIS?
WHEN I WAS JUST GETTING INTO THE SPORT, I was such a dork. A small percentage of you will disagree, maybe even swear at me, but nothing says...
... stay clear, like a mirror.
I know, I know, some of us are damaged and can't look over our shoulders.
Too stiff,
crap balance.
I was neither of those.
I was a spry young newb.
Excited to ride and race.
And my girlfriend of the time wanted to get me something cool.
I quickly mounted the mirror to the end of my handlebar - see pic above.
I thought it was rad.
Perfect for the high speeds and shoulder banging of crit racing,
which I loved.
Rather than turn my head and telegraph my plans,
I could take a peek at my mirror.
Nobody else thought it was cool...
... and they made an obnoxious and clear point of it.
If my hairy legs,
questionable bike handling,
roadrashed arms and legs weren't a give away...
... the mirror, made it clear.
I was not to be trusted in the bunch.
Here's the dill.
They were right.
Because let's face it, anybody focused on the past...
... doesn't have a shot at a winning future.
---
167.8 lbs
8ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
50
>
I DON'T ALWAYS RIDE IN THE RAIN...
I COULD SEE THE STORM BREWING. Like a crazy fool, I rolled out anyway even though I was certain to...
... get caught in the rain.
Trust me, I am a fair weather rider.
Gimme 70 degrees,
and a lite breeze.
So why ride?
Two reasons.
One embarrassing.
One legit...
- Poorly executed work day
- It rains on raceday
- Commitment
Yeah, I had all this work scheduled and a timeline to follow....
... and, well, ya know, things didn't go as planned.
That's 1.
Since it does rain on raceday, and I've never let that stop me from lining up...
... it's good to practice from time to time.
That's 2.
And I committed to myself to get my slothful self back in shape.
That's 3, a bonus.
So which one's embarrassing?
- crap planning
- useless prep
- silly commitment
Well, I dunno about you...
... but, I'm cool with
- keeping my commitments,
- being prepared for all conditions,
- even when things don't go as planned.
---
167.4 lbs
7ish hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
50
>
IT FEELS LIKE THE FIRST TIME!
I WOULD CLIMB ANY MOUNTAIN, ride across the stormy sky. It seemed like I'd waited a lifetime, spent so much time in recovery...
... it felt like the first time!
The MTB.
Like it never did before,
like I'd opened up the door.
Finally!
What is it?
I guess it's just the rawness of nature,
bringing out the rider in me.
Dawgawn I'd missed it.
Carving turns,
wiggling up technical sections,
brushing the thistles,
hanging my lycra off the back in the steeps.
Why today?
Well, to be honest, today was a breakthrough on my vision.
The double-vision I've been dealing with was greatly diminished.
Partly time.
Partly exercises for my eyes.
One of you loyal readers,
one of us,
took the time to share with me a gift for everyone.
Tools for increasing our eyesight,
the kind we need to quickly assess the best way to rip it up off road (on road, too).
You can check the tool out here: https://www.readbetweenthelions.org. Go to the K-12 program.
It's free.
Thanks Rick!
Makes me wonder what else we can learn from each other?
Speak up y'all!
Let's get betterfasterstronger...
... together.
Have you checked out https://pedalindustries.com/pages/rip-on-raceday-network?
(yeah, this post is a nod to Foreigner)
---
168.2 lbs
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
WHADAYA THINK OF UNDULATING TERRAIN?
WE HAVE SOME WEIRD LINGO. Have you ever heard any body, ever, use the phrase undulating terrain? Why would they? When you're motor-powered...
... who cares about the terrain!
Human-powered,
totally different story.
Every bump in the road and trail counts.
The longer we're out there,
the more it counts.
Sooooooooo...
... whadaya think of undulating terrain?
Do you love it?
Or, do you prefer...
- flat
- downhill
- tailwinds
- straight up
- headwinds
... lots choices when we roll out.
Me?
Well.
There are times when I'd give my chamois pad for a flat road with a tailwind.
Days when I feel so amazing I just wanna climb and climb and climb.
But, faced with a choice...
... give me undulating.
Ups.
Downs.
Lots a turns.
That's the ride I choose.
---
169.2 lbs
9 hrs sleep
PullUps, PushUps, Split Squats, Shoulder Presses
20 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
ACTION WINS EVERY TIME
WHY WAS IT SO MIND BLOWING? Yesterday's Strade Bianchi race was so shocking to me. Because, to me, all the pundits...
... missed the point.
Sure, the favorite won.
This was the inspiring part...
- he told everybody where he'd attack in advance of the race
- made a decisive attack 81 km from the finish
- never looked back
- and won
... who wouldn't want to be able to do that?
What blew my mind
was what the talking heads missed.
This athlete,
is a racer of action.
He had a plan,
and went for it.
Could it have failed?
Most definitely.
Could he have looked foolish?
For sure.
Could he have lost the race outright?
Absolutely.
Did he?
No.
Because he took action.
You miss 100% of shots you don't take.
- Wayne Gretzky
---
167.2 lbs
9 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
10 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
QUESTION: IS THIS A HIGH DEMAND SPORT?
I WAS LISTENING TO SOME GUYS ARGUE about whether or not was their religion was high demand, and it got me thinking is ours? Are endurance sports...
... high demand?
Yes.
No.
For me, and maybe for you, too...
... its high demand.
Just consider...
- Training
- Fueling
- Resting
... these are the biggies.
They are priceless,
in a sense.
Which is why the are so easy to screw up,
and so misunderstood by lookers on.
We can't put...
- Training time
- Good fueling choices
- Proper sleep and recovery
... on a credit card.
We've got to demand it from ourselves...
... but, is it really demanding when we love the results?
---
166.2 lbs
7 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
48
>
THE UNCORKED ZONE
IF YOU'RE INTO HOT RODS, then you know what uncorked means. In simple terms, all that junk that keeps the exhaust quiet and lawful is chucked...
... giving us that ultra loud and mean sound.
We have that racing and training, too.
And, if we're smart, we only hit it every so often.
You know what I'm talking about, right?
Zone 2 is corked.
- easy to breathe
- talk while riding
- and go forever.
Today was not Zone 2.
I was uncorked, a bit.
Allowing myself for the first time in 2 months to stretch the legs was amazing.
The accompanying wheezing and gasping for air…
… I don’t know if it was hot rod mean, but it was loud.
Hadn’t heard that in too long…
… ain’t gonna hear for 5 or so days.
Time to add some intensity the smart way.
Polarized.
If ya wanna solid refresher on this approach,
take a listen to this: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-fast-podcast-triathlon-ironman-cycling-coaching/id1400770015?i=1000596124366
Simply, 80-90% of our training should sound like a Tesla...
... cruising through the neighborhood.
That way we are fresh and ready to get after it like the pic above.
Let the rubber...
... burn, baby burn.
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166.9 lbs
8 hrs sleep
No strength work today.
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
56
>
RESULTS DON'T MEAN SHIFT
I DON'T KNOW WHERE YOU ARE ON THE JOURNEY, but I can tell ya this: whether you're just starting out, coming back from injury, at the top of your game, you're gonna fail...
... if results count.
Trust me on this.
I'm rebuilding.
My fitness is shift.
the skills, off.
I've been at the top and the bottom and there is one reason I was able to climb to max fitness and performance...
... I don't care about results.
I mean I do,
but they aren't the motivator.
Optimizing my ability,
having a blast.
Way more important.
Results are nice.
If they are everything...
... quitting, giving up, and failure is on the horizon.
Don't let that happen.
How?
Relax.
We can't see...
... the great results in the making.
They're coming.
Guaranfreakingteed.
---
166.9 lbs
8 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
10 minutes recovery
120 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
ARE WE REALLY DOING THIS?
FOSTER GRANTS ASKED ME Are we really doing this? What kinda question is that...
... Dern straight we're doing it!
Was he hoping we weren't?
Was he doubtful we could do it?
By we, I mainly mean me.
Could you?
I mean, we're gonna have a brain damaged grampa who's been off the bike for months do it...
... can you keep up?
Finish?
What's he referring to?
Oh, just the most life changing ride in Southern California...
- 100+ miles
- 15,000+' of vertical gain
... some might consider it hard.
Others a challenge.
Most an adventure of a lifetime.
So, if you wanna support the old sack a lycra,
if outrageous calls to your soul...
... sign up.
It's free.
and fun.
Click here for deets and pics.
---
167.4 lbs (safe to say, it's time to get seriouser)
9 hrs sleep
Pullups, pushups, squats, presses
20 minutes recovery
90 minutes reading + Journaling
57
>
THEY RAN ME OVER
First off, nobody who calls themselves Robot is normal. It’s no surprise that he prefers to race in the single speed category at a mountain bike race. But… looking at his bars all twisted, the yard of dirt on his shoulder I could tell this was going to be special. They ran me over. What..
First off, nobody who calls themselves Robot is normal. It’s no surprise that he prefers to race in the single speed category at a mountain bike race. But… looking at his bars all twisted, the yard of dirt on his shoulder I could tell this was going to be special.
They ran me over.
What do you mean the ran you over?
They ran me over.
Who?
The guys behind me. There was this little g-out and I flipped over the bars, then they ran me over. Look at my back, pull up the jersey.
The skin is all rashed and bruised.
That’s where one guys pedal just dug into me. Another guy ran right over my knee, see it’s all flippyfloppy now. Look at my bars, some dude plowed across them too.
They ran me over.
What are you going to do?
I’m gonna get my bars fixed, get out there, and chase ’em down.
That’s just one of 500+ stories that will be told tonight after Over The Hump.
… what’s your story?
HEY TODD: WHICH BIKE SHOULD I BUY?
Dear Chris, You’re not alone. This is a difficult topic to broach, especially with you spouse or partner. Here is my proven formula for getting the proper bike: Find a used bike that you can easily afford to throw the money away on. Ride it and see if actually like riding regularly. If you..
Dear Chris,
You’re not alone. This is a difficult topic to broach, especially with you spouse or partner. Here is my proven formula for getting the proper bike:
- Find a used bike that you can easily afford to throw the money away on.
- Ride it and see if actually like riding regularly.
- If you do, go see a bike fitter I recommend so your next purchase is the right size.
- Now you know you like the cycling lifestyle and you know what size bike to get, what you need to know now is how much is this going to cost?
Whether you buy a beater or a quality bike, it’s going to cost you about $3/day.
If you buy a bike from Walmart for $500, it’s going to last you about 6 months. 180 days X $3 = $500.
Right now, you can get an amazing bicycle that will last you 3 years for about $3000. 1095 days X3 = $3285.
“I don’t ride every day”… well guess what Bucky, seeing that bike there costing you $3/day is gonna get you riding a lot more than you otherwise would.
“$3285 is soooooo much money!” Compared to what? First, there’s no fee every time you want to go ride the bike like there is in golf, or skiing. Second, you spend more than that at Starbucks every day.
Look, justifying the expense is stupid. You’re gonna lose on this… even though it’s less than a Starbucks a day.
You gotta flip it.
Let me tell you how you’re going to save:
- You’ll never need a shrink
- You’ll be in excellent health
- You’ll be in a significantly better mood
- … and so on
But the best part is, you’ll have no money or time or energy left over for a mistress.
PS… give me a call and I’ll tell you where to go and who to talk to.
171.4
I’M NOT EVEN TRYING
I’m not even trying to compete with you. I show up to see all the different ways you can destroy me. I show up to gaze at your vast arsenal. I show up to see what real talent looks like. I show up to know what’s possible. I show up… … just for the inspiration. 170.4
I’m not even trying to compete with you. I show up to see all the different ways you can destroy me. I show up to gaze at your vast arsenal. I show up to see what real talent looks like. I show up to know what’s possible. I show up…
… just for the inspiration.
170.4
LOTOJA TRAINING RIDE #6 – EZPZ
It’s going to be hard today. We’ve hammered 5 out of the last 11 days. My legs are cooked, but we are getting very close to the big day and we can’t waste any time. It’s going to be so hard to… … ride very easy. Matt and Ty will there, Cat 1 MTB racers...
It’s going to be hard today. We’ve hammered 5 out of the last 11 days. My legs are cooked, but we are getting very close to the big day and we can’t waste any time. It’s going to be so hard to…
… ride very easy.
Matt and Ty will there, Cat 1 MTB racers. Jeff is down from Park City, he just snagged a KOM from Levi. Plus, Steve and Dr V and Chris and Chris saw the Strava “club” post and will also be there.
The easiest thing to do as the big day approaches is to error on the side of exhaustion, to dig that grave a little deeper. It’s so stupid, so common, so easy to do.
We’re not gonna do it.
We’re gonna ride easy, cruise the beach, be tourists. We’re gonna keep it flat. We’re gonna hydrate. We’re gonna cut it short.
The hardest thing to do, is to ride easy.
(Lots of people in Laguna early, it’s going to be a beautiful day)
How many cyclists does it take to change a tire?
Kevin at 7-11
See you soon
171.4
IT’S NOT A TRAINING CAMP
Paul and I think it would be fun for our snowbound friends to fly south for the winter and join the locals for some epic rides in SoCal. Think of it as a chance to start the year off different. We’ll all learn a bunch of new stuff about bikes and going faster… I mean,..
Paul and I think it would be fun for our snowbound friends to fly south for the winter and join the locals for some epic rides in SoCal. Think of it as a chance to start the year off different. We’ll all learn a bunch of new stuff about bikes and going faster… I mean, if you’re into that sort of thing.
The rides will include HUNKR OC, HUNKR GMR, and Swami’s Long on the road and San Juan Trail off road.
The learning will be from the Carmichael Training Systems vault, and others.
Pencil it in for last week of January, 2018… and don’t blow getting your haul pass by calling it a training camp…
…start the year different.
Nothing says put me on FB Live like flannel in July.
HOW TO GROW CYCLING
It’s starts with a friendly “hi, my name is Todd.” Within a few miles you’ll know if you like to do the same kind of rides and if you do… then, “hey, we are all riding the Market Ride on Thursday. Join us.” We’re humans. We like to do stuff with like-minded people. There’s nothing..
It’s starts with a friendly “hi, my name is Todd.” Within a few miles you’ll know if you like to do the same kind of rides and if you do… then, “hey, we are all riding the Market Ride on Thursday. Join us.”
We’re humans.
We like to do stuff with like-minded people.
There’s nothing better than geeking out over cycling with your pals.
Embrace the new guys and gals, especially if they are lacking skills.
You’ll soon have friends for life.
… and a growing community.
171
MTB WDNSDY
I once hired Gibby Hatton to coach me. Google him… there’s 55,000 references to America’s greatest track racer. I wasn’t going to race track, I wasn’t even racing road at the time, I was prepping for Leadville and wanted to see what I could learn from a new perspective. He had me come over, get..
I once hired Gibby Hatton to coach me. Google him… there’s 55,000 references to America’s greatest track racer. I wasn’t going to race track, I wasn’t even racing road at the time, I was prepping for Leadville and wanted to see what I could learn from a new perspective. He had me come over, get on a trainer and ride.
You hear that?
What?
That… the trainer.
Yep.
Do you always pedal like that?
Yep.
You ride BMX? A lot as a kid.
Mountain bike? Yes, a ton.
That explains it.
Oh…
Listen to the trainer, the sound is even.
BMX’rs have the best pedal stroke because the aren’t clipped in.
Mountain bikers are next because they have to put the power down evenly to keep the rear tire hooked up.
Roadies are usually awful, just mashing away.
It was a short lived experience. Mainly because he was very serious, and I was a little low on dough. But sometimes, just getting confirmation that you’re doing the right thing is worth the price of admission.
That popped into my mind tonight riding with 17 yr old Reed on a pretty beefy trail bike, and 47 yr old Brent on a Specialized electric bike, and me clipped in on my hardtail.
Different bikes, different styles, same passion.
Some of the drops we did were so steep the back of my saddle was nailed to my sternum… controlled skids. We loped back to the top and did more trails, found some good jumps I came up short often enough to bust a spoke.
Can’t wait ’till next week.
172
OUTLANDA-ISH
Oh Mikel!… really? Granted, the editors at VeloNews might be making you look bad to back up their sensational headline. So, I read on… “When you start to think about where you could have taken back a second … ufff, que rabia!” Dude, you sound like every whiner I’ve ever heard. I woulda one, but…..
Oh Mikel!… really? Granted, the editors at VeloNews might be making you look bad to back up their sensational headline. So, I read on…
“When you start to think about where you could have taken back a second … ufff, que rabia!”
Dude, you sound like every whiner I’ve ever heard. I woulda one, but…
…but nothing bro, look at the scoreboard.
You lost by one second.
That’s all.
Did you have the legs to drop everybody? Maybe. But. you didn’t and you didn’t have the weight of team leadership in your jersey pockets and there’s probably a reason you aren’t a team leader yet.
I hope you do get to lead a team, and I hope you do win. Winning is awesome…
…whining is for losers.
IT’S JUST A SOCIAL RIDE
It’s just a social ride, nothing to worry about. The guys and gals getting together, to do an easy, little spin. … right before they rip your legs off, marinate them, and throw them on the grill. If your “pals” ever describe a ride as just a social ride, and your spider-sense is screaming DON’T..
It’s just a social ride, nothing to worry about. The guys and gals getting together, to do an easy, little spin.
… right before they rip your legs off, marinate them, and throw them on the grill.
If your “pals” ever describe a ride as just a social ride, and your spider-sense is screaming DON’T DO IT!, well…
It’s not that there aren’t social rides. There are. Lots of ’em. People being friendly, putting around town, maybe a little site seeing and probably some food and drinks along the way.
… just be prepared for what’s on the menu.
PS… I’m going to do a limited run of these shirts, order now – deliver in 15 days)
CHARITY
Why are so many bike rides and races associated with a charity? The hard truth: being associated with a charity greases the government gears. It all gets easier. Promoting is still very hard work. Without the promoter’s charitable heart nothing would happen. (Jeff promotes CBR) (Matt promotes OverTheHump and 50MileRide) (Jon, Andy, Jake and their..
Why are so many bike rides and races associated with a charity? The hard truth: being associated with a charity greases the government gears. It all gets easier.
Promoting is still very hard work.
Without the promoter’s charitable heart nothing would happen.
(Jeff promotes CBR)
(Matt promotes OverTheHump and 50MileRide)
(Jon, Andy, Jake and their lovely ladies promote NON-DOT)
LOTOJA TRAINING RIDE #5 – CHRYSTAL LAKE
The Route: GMR to Chrystal Lake and back. Goals: test food choices, saddle height, gearing, get Nate’s take. It hurts. We hammered up GMR (2300′) and now we are hammering up to Chrystal Lake (4000′). It’s my first time to the lake. The ProEco’s (Chris, Slayer and Jerry) are pulling away. I’m in full diesel..
The Route: GMR to Chrystal Lake and back.
Goals: test food choices, saddle height, gearing, get Nate’s take.
It hurts. We hammered up GMR (2300′) and now we are hammering up to Chrystal Lake (4000′). It’s my first time to the lake. The ProEco’s (Chris, Slayer and Jerry) are pulling away. I’m in full diesel mode, 160 bpm.
I never wonder why I do this, I know why… because it feels so good and it quiets my over-active mind.
Unlike GMR, which is quite twisty, Chrystal Lake has long, lying stretches that look easy… Garmin speaks truth, 7-10% grades. We are a lot higher. Tall, thick pines reach above casting lonely shadows.
A 911 nearly spun out passing me down East Fork. On this climb, multiple motos skim by.
The guys are waiting for me at the famous Cafe – basically an ancient burger shack that sells 12oz cans of soda and 16oz bottles of water with their burgers and burritos… I’m parched. Chris is covered in his own salt.
We refuel, after 2 hours and 40 minutes to cover 6000’+ in 35 miles.
Time to go down.
Descending is the only time I’m able to fully concentrate on one thing, ever. Everything is quite, everything is visible. All my senses functioning beautifully. It’s calming and I’m confident. I’m an eagle…
About those goals:
Food… at a very fast tempo, I can’t eat. I can only drink. So, I’m going to have to go all liquid the first 100 of LoToJa. My friend Paul Ruggiero, a high-level CTS coach, told me 1 gram of carbohydrate per kilogram of body weight. I couldn’t do that effectively today because: one, the pace was to high to eat a Honey Stinger an hour; two, we stopped multiple times for water and food. Next Saturday, I’m rolling out with 4 hours of food and not stop… which is how far we go until the first aid station in LoToJa.
Saddle height… so, I decided to give the POWER saddle in the correct width a try mainly because a lot of my friends love that saddle. I didn’t get the position perfect and my knees are a tad tender. I’m still not sure about the saddle. The Romin should be in this week, I’m probably going to wind up going with it.
Gearing… ordered my 34t small ring for the front but didn’t have time to install it. It would have been great today. My 36t/28t is fine for GMR but Chrystal Lake’s pitches were just a little much over a long climb, and we have very long climbs in September.
Nate’s take… Nate has done LoToJa multiple times and I was anxious to hear the comparison between today’s climbs. He said today’s climbs were steeper, and today’s pace faster.
(Garmin said 34 hours to recover, I actually find these assessments useful)
(Inside the Chrystal Lake Cafe)
(It was nice outside the cafe: ProEco’s Slayer on the right, Jerry on the left, and Chris)
(We are dudes in nature using… this stenching hut… we must be tired!)
(Couldn’t get enough of these big, burly dudes hugging each other before separating)
(Who else but Hartono does all you can eat sushi after an epic ride?!… we’re gonna miss this kid)
HOW TO BUILD A TEAM – GETTING STARTED
Todd, I want to build up ______ cycling… how do I do that? It’s a good question, and I get it a lot, but it’s not the place to start. The fundamental questions are: Who you are? and Where do you want to go? Here’s a snap shot of a conversation with my friend who..
Todd, I want to build up ______ cycling… how do I do that? It’s a good question, and I get it a lot, but it’s not the place to start. The fundamental questions are: Who you are? and Where do you want to go? Here’s a snap shot of a conversation with my friend who stopped today, and where we wound up.
Kim: Women’s cycling is dying, nobody races. I want to build that up.
Do you race?
Kim: Not anymore, I crashed hard at Dana Point. I still ride a lot, and I have these two weekly rides I’ve created. 20-30 people show up each week….
We talked about how these two rides started, and why she puts in the time to promote them. Who shows up, what the agenda is etc. She has a really good starting point already. But, she struggled a little bit to answer the fundamental questions.
Who are you? Meaning, what is the identity of the tribe you want to create. Some groups seem to take on an identity of their own, but in reality the the leader of the group attracts like-minded people. I’ve been on group rides where everybody swears and has nothing but lewd and rude comments, others where the dynamic is the polar opposite – saintly. It all starts with the leader. It’s going to be hard for my friend to grow women’s racing if she’s not racing, for example.
Where do you want to go? It’s takes years to build anything substantial. Kim knows this, she even said it took two years until the rides were self-sustaining. With that in mind, what do you want your cycling team to look like in 2-3 years? Racers vs riders vs social vs competitive vs inclusive vs exclusive vs free vs fee vs big vs small vs all men vs all women vs all kids vs all families vs road vs mtb vs track vs BMX vs touring.
Looking at other teams can be helpful. I told Kim about my friend Jacke’s club, the Trail Angels. Jacke started very small, with handful of friends and a desire to get women in her area out on mountain bikes. Jacke shares her passion for our beautiful mountains and biking with complete joy – get out, get healthy, get a break. She provides friendship and mentorship, teaching hundreds of women how to ride and care for their mountain bikes. Some years Jacke’s tribe exceeds 300 women.
If you don’t know who you are and where you want to go you will struggle mightily.
My advice is to pick the narrowest segment possible, and build from there. One at a time. It’s harder work, but it’s long-lasting and infinitely more fulfilling. If you can’t make it work small, it will never work big.
It starts with your passion and your willingness to give, anything less than giving and caring will greatly hobble your efforts.
Answer those questions and I’ll cover what’s next… next.
PS… Kim is focusing on women-only road rides, you can join her on Facebook
(one of my all time favorite books)
DRIVEN BY PAIN
Everything we make and do is driven by pain. If we’re feelin’ pain, we want eliminate it so we create something way better… turning pain into gain. Tired of ill-fitting, ugly kits… we searched out the best Italian fabrics and created beautiful cycling gear. Frustrated by a giant bag with no organization… we developed the..
Everything we make and do is driven by pain. If we’re feelin’ pain, we want eliminate it so we create something way better… turning pain into gain.
Tired of ill-fitting, ugly kits… we searched out the best Italian fabrics and created beautiful cycling gear.
Frustrated by a giant bag with no organization… we developed the RaceDay bag.
Baggy, boxy t-shirts… fixed that.
Lately, I’ve been thinking about an entirely different sock. I mean, it’s still a sock… but this is going to be an awesome sock.
It’s all about the “R” and “D”… Realizing you’re in pain and Developing an outstanding solution. Most of us endurance cyclists can endure pain and not even realized life could be a lot better.
Stay tuned…
JUST KIDDING
Want to change up your riding? Grab your mountain bike, head out with the high school kids. Be prepared to stop and talk and size up gnarly stuff. That’s how kids ride. Just for fun. That’s what we did tonight. We just rode. No agenda, no plan. We stopped above some crazy steep drops, then..
Want to change up your riding? Grab your mountain bike, head out with the high school kids. Be prepared to stop and talk and size up gnarly stuff. That’s how kids ride. Just for fun.
That’s what we did tonight.
We just rode.
No agenda, no plan.
We stopped above some crazy steep drops, then dropped in.
We found some big jumps and some of us jumped big… some jumped… and some just rolled over the jumps. Then we did it again, jumping a little further each time. Daring ourselves and each other.
A little blood was oozing, lots of dust mixed in with sweat, smiles everywhere.
It’s cheap too.
The kids bought their bikes on Craigslist… $4000 bikes for $600. Not the latest and greatest machines, that’s not the point. This isn’t about racing, it’s about adventure and fun and learning how to ride and work on the bikes.
-
make (someone or something) look or feel younger, fresher, or more lively.
RUSSIAN MISSILE OBLITERATES PELOTON
I can’t really compare the attacks to anybody else I’ve ridden with. They are violent and vicious. But lots of guys can pedal ferociously. They are extremely ambitious, miles from the finish line. Nothing original there, really. The thing about Sasha’s attacks is the resemblance to inter-continental ballistic missiles. Imagine those Space Shuttle videos from..
I can’t really compare the attacks to anybody else I’ve ridden with. They are violent and vicious. But lots of guys can pedal ferociously. They are extremely ambitious, miles from the finish line. Nothing original there, really. The thing about Sasha’s attacks is the resemblance to inter-continental ballistic missiles.
Imagine those Space Shuttle videos from the side of the rocket… the flame, the thrust, the lift off to infinity and beyond.
Now imagine you 6″ off that rocket’s rear wheel.
That’s what it’s like.
He’s the flame, and you’re made of wax.
He’s firing away, and you are melting… right… into… the pavement.
…where you will lie and lie to yourself…
Today he launched the moment we hit the bike path. 6 of us hung on desperately. Pete and Chris and Bret did a few rotations. One by one, the “boosters” were jettisoned until the launch vehicle reached the top of the wall never to be seen again.
Impressive. Sasha!
(uphill, 600 watts, 23 mph – click to watch video)
SLEEP MORE, LOSE MORE
My sleeping schedule is off… I’ve stopped reading and picked up binge watching at night. First MadMen then Shane said, Dad you gotta watch Designated Survivor. It’s always fun to watch a show together… and since he and Abbey are home for the summer… well, here I am… it’s late and I’m getting fatter, because..
My sleeping schedule is off… I’ve stopped reading and picked up binge watching at night. First MadMen then Shane said, Dad you gotta watch Designated Survivor. It’s always fun to watch a show together… and since he and Abbey are home for the summer… well, here I am… it’s late and I’m getting fatter, because you get fat when you don’t sleep enough.
At least I do, and I bet you do too.
If I could just get this last season finished, then I’ll get back to reading… and the books are piling up.
Reading is better pre-sleep than “TV” because you have to hold the book. It’s much less convenient than mindlessly watching the screen with both hands free to steady the popcorn and load the mouth.
Studies have shown that if you don’t sleep enough you’ll put on weight… I think just because you are awake more, and there’s food everywhere in the US.
Sleep more, lose more.
THE 3 N’S OF SELLING
If you’re knowledgeable, nice and never frustrated… you’ll sell a lot of stuff. The goal isn’t to sell a lot of stuff… it’s to help people out.
If you’re knowledgeable, nice and never frustrated… you’ll sell a lot of stuff.
The goal isn’t to sell a lot of stuff… it’s to help people out.
LOW-TO-JAW TRAINING RIDE #4
Today I had two goals: sort out my saddle and long steady climbing… and hang out with Hartono before he moves back to Indonesia – hanging out is not a goal, it’s too important. We’d be checking those boxes down on Palomar – apparently rated the #10 most difficult climb in California (it’s not that..
Today I had two goals: sort out my saddle and long steady climbing… and hang out with Hartono before he moves back to Indonesia – hanging out is not a goal, it’s too important. We’d be checking those boxes down on Palomar – apparently rated the #10 most difficult climb in California (it’s not that hard compared to the many MTB climbs, it’s paved and at a super steady grade so the world’s largest telescope could be built on top of the mountain).
So much pre-amble…
Anyway, my saddle has been a real pain lately. Thankfully Specialized has a satisfaction guarantee so I was able to test a new saddle out today.
CeeDub recommended I get my Sitz bone’s width checked. Steve handled that with a pretty cool device from ReTul. I sitz’d on it twice, and he said I need to be on a 155… which is a lot wider than the 143 I’ve been on. Then, Steve politely took me over to all the saddles and we settled on the Romin – I’ve been on the Power. He had a loaner, I took it. So flippin’ simple… can I tell you how nice it was to have a pro take the time to not make me feel like a retard and kindly help me out?! (I feel another post is coming on regarding sales).
Verdict?
The saddle is ace. Perfect. Me so happy!
8 weeks out… and I gotta get the saddle solved.
We started at Lake Henshaw. This is my preferred route to ride Palomar. There are many options, this one is the least traveled. Here’s the link.
We did two 1 hour and twenty minute climbs, each finishing at the Observatory.
My personal goal here was to keep it in Zone 3. I did that no problem and was able to climb strong the entire time with no real let off in power.
I did notice that over 8% it was hard for me to keep my cadence up and Hartono would scoot ahead. He has a 32 on his bike, I’m riding a 28. I need to dig into the LoToJa course and see how steep the grades get. If they are over 8% for long periods of time, I’ll be throwing a larger cassette on for next week’s adventure.
Ride Notes:
The East Grade has been resurfaced and it’s amazing. Black Silk.
A pickup had gone over the edge at the top of East Grade and rolled down about 200 yards – not sure about survivors.
On South Grade a wannabe moto-GP guy went down right in front of us – we were climbing up. He came out of a left hand turn (for him) and lost the front wheel, laid it down, rolled over the bike and they both landed in the dirt. Gas spilled all over the road. He was fine… I stopped to help him pick the bike up… so take 20 minutes off my time up South Grade.
Car clubs were all over: GTRs, Ferrari’s, classic BMWs.
Ran into JJ from UC Cycles Racing at Mother’s.
Saw Lori and George Everesting on South Grade – they are crazy animals.
(That’s an Enzo, about 20 other Ferrari’s)
(I prefer the GTRs)
(Right before Hartono dropped me)
(Hartono’s first time up to the Observatory, if you’ve never gone the extra 4 miles… DO IT!)
MAYBE WE’RE ONTO SOMETHING?
Just two observations about today’s gripping Tour de France stage: SKY dominated the stage, while wearing their new white jerseys. Today’s stage was awesome, because it was only 100k. Are we onto something? TMWC went to white jersey this year. We started a series of 100k bike races called HUNKR.
Just two observations about today’s gripping Tour de France stage:
- SKY dominated the stage, while wearing their new white jerseys.
- Today’s stage was awesome, because it was only 100k.
Are we onto something?
- TMWC went to white jersey this year.
- We started a series of 100k bike races called HUNKR.
THE RE-RIDE
Whether you ride or drive to the ride or race, on the way home you have the re-ride. This is usually much better than the actual ride: more animated, more exagerrated. Somehow it always reminds me of the old black and white movies where the couple lie in bed smoking, reliving the heat and passion..
Whether you ride or drive to the ride or race, on the way home you have the re-ride. This is usually much better than the actual ride: more animated, more exagerrated. Somehow it always reminds me of the old black and white movies where the couple lie in bed smoking, reliving the heat and passion of the moment in each others arms.
Oh baby, I wish you didn’t have to go…
Oh man, you guys took off and all we could do was…
We hit that hill so hard I thought…
My cleat broke in the sprint and everybody…
You came by so fast…
I saw that guy swing wide and…
The re-ride is loud. Everybody clamoring to get their version heard, piling on each others tales.
We’re just so full of energy, even after the most brutal rides, we gotta talk it out. Re-ride the whole thing. Hearing how it went down from every perspective, and loving every single syllable said and heard.
Pass the Marlboro’s
(Matt and Jon re-riding the Market Ride)
HE’S STARTS TO GET A WHIFF
He’s being shown :50, that will give a whole bottle of courage He doesn’t touch the brakes because he doesn’t need to. Finally, the tongue comes out Normally you need 1:10 at 10k, Bodnar is not normal. It’s a serious moment. He starts to get a sniff Catch him?… they can’t It’s a face of..
He’s being shown :50, that will give a whole bottle of courage
He doesn’t touch the brakes because he doesn’t need to.
Finally, the tongue comes out
Normally you need 1:10 at 10k, Bodnar is not normal.
It’s a serious moment.
He starts to get a sniff
Catch him?… they can’t
It’s a face of determination
They can see him
The more technical the better his chances
It is far from over
One thing he won’t do is surrender
He’s just so strong
He’ll steal it, no he won’t he’ll earn it
But… it’s Kittle again… caught in the last 300 meters
unOFFICIAL TMWC 2017
A little twig put the wood to the rest of us this morning. He’s 16. Don’t feel bad, he just placed 2nd in the TT at Road Nationals. ANDREW VOLLMER – 2017 unOFFICIAL Tuesday Morning World Champion Andrew has been coming out here since he was just a helmet on a top tube. Every year, a..
A little twig put the wood to the rest of us this morning.
He’s 16.
Don’t feel bad, he just placed 2nd in the TT at Road Nationals.
ANDREW VOLLMER – 2017 unOFFICIAL Tuesday Morning World Champion
Andrew has been coming out here since he was just a helmet on a top tube. Every year, a little better.
Isn’t that what we are all looking for?
He wasn’t alone, last year’s champ Kevin Vermaerke – his teammate on LUX – was right there. They finished 7/100’s of a second apart, with young Sam Warford just 6 seconds back.
Given that this is a social ride with a strong no-drop policy, I’m shocked at the times you posted… even I PR’d.
Isn’t that what we are all looking for?
One thing we weren’t looking for was a casualty. One of our ladies was hit from behind by a car. Nothing is broken, she should be home tomorrow. Please keep her in your hearts and prayers.
The raffle was loaded with sunglasses, apparel, nutrition, pressed-juices, fine dining and bike shop gift cards. Our sponsors are awesome!
Below are links to videos, photos, and results… which is what you’re really looking for, right?
See ya next week, or next year… soon I hope.
Y’all are awesome!
Results below videos
BE SURE TO CLICK ON THE YOUTUBE LOGO NEXT TO YOUR NAME
THE LAST MINUTE
Right at the last minute… it gets gnarly. As Mr. Wonderful from Shark Tank says, “doodoo happens”. The key is to never, ever let your competitors or your customers in on your drama… or in the case of me and The unOFFICIAL TMWC, both. We’ll be ready for ya at 6am tomorrow. (Good thing the office..
Right at the last minute… it gets gnarly. As Mr. Wonderful from Shark Tank says, “doodoo happens”. The key is to never, ever let your competitors or your customers in on your drama… or in the case of me and The unOFFICIAL TMWC, both.
We’ll be ready for ya at 6am tomorrow.
(Good thing the office is sponsored by MONSTER ENERGY!)
LOTOJA TRAINING RIDE #3
It’s so easy to over do it this time of year. The days are long with refreshing mornings and cool evenings. The Tour is on 24-7: TV, web, social… it’s everywhere and we are all geeked up. Group rides are full, fast and fun. I just want to ride, ride, ride… like a true cycling..
It’s so easy to over do it this time of year. The days are long with refreshing mornings and cool evenings. The Tour is on 24-7: TV, web, social… it’s everywhere and we are all geeked up. Group rides are full, fast and fun. I just want to ride, ride, ride… like a true cycling fool.
Don’t do it. At least don’t do it if you have a big event at the end of the summer, like I do.
You still need recover days/weeks.
Today, I rolled out with my friends and just hung on for the first hour. That was too much, so I rode solo for another 2 hours. It’s a curious thing the way the body responds to the mind. With resting on order, it was easy to go slow because I felt slow. Weird.
50 miles. 16.5 mph. 123 HR.
Quite a difference from the 100+ miles at 20 mph a few weeks ago.
Next will be intense on Tuesday and Thursday with a long day of climbing on Palomar Saturday. Join me, if you’re around.
Notes: The Figgy Pops seem like a good source of calories, filling and satisfying and go down easy. I still need to figure out a good way to transport them, 4 in a small bag was a bit much… I’ll try 2 per bag next week.
(Justin must be shocked that I’m still hanging on… Ville is turning left to meet the LPB crew)
WHY I DON’T USE CARBON BARS
I don’t ride carbon bars on my road bike because I’m lazy… let me ‘splain you somesing. Carbon is awesome: it’s light, super strong, can be molded into aeroness beyond compare… but it has one big flaw compared to aluminum bars. If you crash, or if you bike just falls over, or if you’re just..
I don’t ride carbon bars on my road bike because I’m lazy… let me ‘splain you somesing. Carbon is awesome: it’s light, super strong, can be molded into aeroness beyond compare… but it has one big flaw compared to aluminum bars.
If you crash, or if you bike just falls over, or if you’re just a big buck stud, you could easily damage your carbon bars. The problem is carbon is super strong, and can fracture and still keep it’s shape and be relatively strong. Wait, that’s not the real problem. The real problem is those cracks and fractures while visible are hidden underneath your bar tape. You can’t see the damage.
But, the damage is done and one day will fail.
If you’re lazy like me, you won’t remove your bar tape every time you crash or the bike falls over. You’ll just keep getting on and riding. In a race, you might pop up full of adrenaline, get on that bike, pull hard on the bars to accelerate only to have them break apart. There’s a million scenarios and rare is the outcome good.
My pal Frank had his bars fail last night. He’s a good guy, so karma was in his favor and he managed to somehow stay upright.
You’re probably a good person too, but I don’t believe in Karma as much as I believe in checking out the bars when needed.
I don’t worry about it too much on my mountain bike because so much of the bars are exposed to easy visual examination.
When aluminum cracks, it fails instantly… at least that’s my experience from tearing my head tube off of the top and down tubes… a story for another day.
(only the tape is keeping this bar together)
2 TYPES
There are only two types of bike riders: Those who talk themselves out of hard rides. Those who talk themselves into hard rides. Man up, buttercup… it’s time for a change.
There are only two types of bike riders:
Those who talk themselves out of hard rides.
Those who talk themselves into hard rides.
Man up, buttercup… it’s time for a change.
YOU’RE JUST ONE RIDE AWAY
You’re just one ride away from: being fitter meeting someone new finding a new path discovering new potential forgetting your troubles a new inspiration learning to sprint better getting some vitamin D being faster a big smile climbing faster justifying a new bike beating your PR mastering the wheelie a beautiful curvy descent loving the..
You’re just one ride away from:
being fitter
meeting someone new
finding a new path
discovering new potential
forgetting your troubles
a new inspiration
learning to sprint better
getting some vitamin D
being faster
a big smile
climbing faster
justifying a new bike
beating your PR
mastering the wheelie
a beautiful curvy descent
loving the rain
skidding just for fun
work
the coffee shop
a new beginning…
… a new destination
(from my buddy Brett’s amazing collection – check it out)
Guaranteed
Imagine this… the Federal Government promises you if you’ll get a bike you’ll be healthy and skinny and better looking. Plus, they’ll loan you the money to buy whatever bike you want with no ceiling on the cost. Just buy it! You’re young, and dumb so you do it. Guess what… you have to pay..
Imagine this… the Federal Government promises you if you’ll get a bike you’ll be healthy and skinny and better looking. Plus, they’ll loan you the money to buy whatever bike you want with no ceiling on the cost. Just buy it!
You’re young, and dumb so you do it.
Guess what… you have to pay the loan back with interest and you cannot go bankrupt to get out of the repayment.
Still want to buy it?
No, of course not.
- Ownership of a bike does not guarantee the promised results.
- You should never buy a bike you cannot afford.
- You should never, ever take a loan that cannot be walked away from.
Among the many American virtues, we believe in forgiveness and in starting over. We also believe companies should stand behind their products and suffer the consequences when their products fail.
In this example, the bike manufacture is guaranteed payment… regardless of the quality of the bike they sell you, your health and ability to pedal a bike, your ability to understand the terrible consequences of this decision. The Federal Government has vouched for your ability to pay and if you cannot or will not pay the loan they’ll get it from your family and friends and neighbors who have no input on giving you the money to begin with.
As a result, the bike manufacturers jack their prices through the roof, why not? Really, why not? Plus, they look for anybody who can fog a mirror and make them promises of health for life. And they have no incentive to get you the proper bike… one you can afford, one that will be useful the moment you get it and for many years to follow. The legislators look like the good guys for getting you the bike you wanted.
The bike company is guaranteed not to lose, the legislators are guaranteed not to lose.
Guess what you’re guaranteed?
Sounds ridiculous right? Look at the Student Loan mess we have created by just this line of thinking.
Should we all ride bikes? Hell yes… and a lot of us do. We buy what we can afford. If we fall on hard times we go bankrupt and walk away, if the bike doesn’t work we return it… and that keeps the prices of bikes lower, keeps the quality of bikes higher.
Should we all get higher education? Yes, of course. Absolutely.
The fact that the Feds have put our youth on the line for life for education is criminal. By not forcing the universities to stand behind their own product and find financing that is affordable they have shackled a generation. Oh, and we’re all on the hook for $1.400,000,000,000.
I’m going for a ride.
Controversy
The thing about controversy is it makes you think, possibly take sides… change your opinion. When I got home from today’s most excellent ride, I saw Rahsaan’s FB post… “Cav… elbow… bad call”… Time to jump on NBC Gold’s replay of the stage. What happened? In the closing meters of the final sprint, Cav leans..
The thing about controversy is it makes you think, possibly take sides… change your opinion. When I got home from today’s most excellent ride, I saw Rahsaan’s FB post… “Cav… elbow… bad call”… Time to jump on NBC Gold’s replay of the stage. What happened?
In the closing meters of the final sprint, Cav leans into Sagan and crashes himself out – again. Demare weaves all over the road and wins…
… and Sagan gets disqualified…
That’s my opinion from the moment I saw it in real time. Watch it in slow motion and get more convinced.
But, as long as we’re into controversy… I love me some podocasts and Lance’s podcast is insightful in unexpected ways… but I’ll let you decide.
IT’S MY TIME
You like getting up early. No I don’t. You get up with the sun every day. I don’t like it, nobody does. Why do you do it?
You like getting up early.
No I don’t.
You get up with the sun every day.
I don’t like it, nobody does.
Why do you do it?
LoToJa Training Ride #2 – Creek to Peak
There is only one place on earth I’ve ever seen what I saw today, and I’ve seen it multiple times in the same exact spot. I wish I’d had a GoPro. Through the twisty single track down Holy Jim, I was flying. The brush is tall and in some spots creates a jungle canopy in..
There is only one place on earth I’ve ever seen what I saw today, and I’ve seen it multiple times in the same exact spot. I wish I’d had a GoPro. Through the twisty single track down Holy Jim, I was flying. The brush is tall and in some spots creates a jungle canopy in our arid mountains.
Someone else was flying too, a little Blue Jay.
He swooped in from my left and flew just in front of me for a good 20 seconds. His beautiful blue body luminescent against the greens and shadows. The wings, like my legs… a few quick flaps, a brief glide, more flaps. When the canopy opened he shot out… earth is awesome.
Today’s training ride was more about time in the saddle. It wasn’t a road ride, it was MTB. I think it’s important to keep it playful and fun vs a death march every Saturday. Also, we don’t have any big paved climbs around here and this would allow me to “ramp up” the vertical.
Pete and I rolled from my place at 6 and headed inland from the sands of Doheny. Chris Hill and the rest of the Creek to Peak crew left Salt Creek at the same time, and we met up in San Juan. The idea is to leave the beach and ride to the top of Saddleback, 5687′, and back.
78.7 miles… 6:51 rolling time… 7,021′ elevation gain. More data here: STRAVA
Other than testing my legs and back on a sustained climb, I also wanted to test out real pickle juice.
The main climb, Harding Truck Trail to the peak of Saddleback, is about 14 miles and 4000′ of elevation gain. That’s about 285’/mile, 5.5% average pitch… some parts are closer to 15%.
The question was, do I have decent climbing legs? It’s a little hard to tell for a few reasons: one, I haven’t ridden my MTB much this year so my body isn’t firing perfectly on that bike; two, I was loaded down with 3 bottles and a lot of food which is more than usual; three, it took 2 hours to get to the base vs driving to the start and riding home was in the back of mind. Bottom line: I felt fine, like I could keep going.
About that pickle juice… can I tell you how tasty it was all heated up by my body and the shining sun? Could it dissolve my throat?!! I chased it with GQ6. Side note: the pickle juice was in a plastic flask. It was a little tricky twisting the top off while grinding up Harding TT. Bottom line: this was definitely a day where cramps could happen, it was hot on the climb… we all had salt stains on our kits… and I felt not a hint of cramps, zero.
We stopped at mile 50, about 5 hours in, at the Trabuco General store… it was a chance to gather everybody up and eat Mexican popsicles, chips, donuts, sodeepop.
This brings an end to a nice little build cycle: 4 hours 25 min two weeks ago, 5 hours 11 min last Saturday, and 6 hours 51 minutes today. I’ll get pretty big ride in on the 4th, then recover the rest of the week with a shorter ride next Saturday…
… gotta taper for the unOFFICIAL Tuesday Morning World Championships on 7/11
__________
Had to jam all this in the back pockets: pickle juice flask, 3 baggies of GQ6 – 2 in the 3rd water bottle, 5 Honey Stingers.
Nate joined us from Dana Point
Pete… do you agree? (We’re about a mile from the summit at this point)
Yep, we live in the desert
Lives were saved today.
This should have been enough… but I went back for a coconut popsicle.
SHAKE DOWN
Before any race or epic ride, it’s a good idea to do a shake down. The shake down ride is all about the bike… is it working properly? Today I did a shake down on my MTB in preparation for Chris’ Creek to Peak tomorrow. Here’s how I do it: Inspect the brakes. Pads okay?..
Before any race or epic ride, it’s a good idea to do a shake down. The shake down ride is all about the bike… is it working properly? Today I did a shake down on my MTB in preparation for Chris’ Creek to Peak tomorrow. Here’s how I do it:
- Inspect the brakes. Pads okay?
- Inspect the tires. Treads good, no sidewall nicks?
- Saddle bag installed and complete with everything to fix a flat, lube? This is 80 miles or so in the dirt, so I’ll need the bag as my pockets are going to be full with food.
- Headset tight?
- Garmin charged, mount solid?
- Saddle perfect?
- Shock(s) properly pressurized?
There are probably a few things I’m forgetting on this list. Once I’ve gone over everything mechanical I head out for a very easy spin. I’m listening with ears and feeling with my skin for anything that sounds or feels amiss. It’s just easy spinning, relaxing.
What is the bike telling me?
If this was something big, like Nationals or Leadville… an A race… I’d be doing this 2 weeks out, not the day before. If something doesn’t check out you want to address and ride it again several times. In this case everything checked out and if it hadn’t I might have rolled the dice or just gone for a road ride instead.
When I returned, I lubed the chain and left a rag on the saddle to remind me to wipe the chain down before I roll out in the morning.
Culture
Every group has a culture, every cycling group/team/ride/shop has a culture. When you decide to start something you’re creating the culture from that moment forward. I’m not sure if people are attracted to culture or culture attracts people, but I am sure it’s important to decide from outset the kind of culture you want to..
Every group has a culture, every cycling group/team/ride/shop has a culture. When you decide to start something you’re creating the culture from that moment forward. I’m not sure if people are attracted to culture or culture attracts people, but I am sure it’s important to decide from outset the kind of culture you want to create.
Is it a family oriented weekly mountain bike race, centered on fun?
Is it hard core crit racing demanding the sharpest skills?
Is it bargain pricing on low quality parts?
Is it curating only the highest quality, most expensive bicycles?
Is it self-serve or blow your mind attention to detail?
You can’t be everything, be specific and go for it!
THE F WORDS
I love the 4th, to honor freedom. I love New Year’s, to cherish renewal. Twice a year our business stands still and we have the opportunity to reimagine the road we are on.
I love the 4th, to honor freedom. I love New Year’s, to cherish renewal. Twice a year our business stands still and we have the opportunity to reimagine the road we are on.
IF THIS LOOKS LIKE FUN THEN ________?
What a morning! The weather was amazing… perfect for a sociable, “no-drop” ride. Smiles were shining. Fists were bumping. In 2 weeks we celebrate 14 years, 5 unOFFICIAL’s, with timing chips and t-shirts and acai bowls. Hope you can make it. Because if this looks fun to you, then ______________? (I have to put this..
What a morning!
The weather was amazing… perfect for a sociable, “no-drop” ride.
Smiles were shining.
Fists were bumping.
In 2 weeks we celebrate 14 years, 5 unOFFICIAL’s, with timing chips and t-shirts and acai bowls.
Hope you can make it. Because if this looks fun to you, then ______________?
(I have to put this picture here for FB to show it)
THE BEST RIDE EVER
I haven’t ridden everywhere, but… I’ve ridden all over California and Hawaii and Oregon and Nevada and Utah and Colorado and Arizona and New Mexico and Mexico and Canada and France. I’ve ridden lots on the road and lots on the dirt. Sunny days and rainy days and windy days. Hot days and cold days. In..
I haven’t ridden everywhere, but… I’ve ridden all over California and Hawaii and Oregon and Nevada and Utah and Colorado and Arizona and New Mexico and Mexico and Canada and France.
I’ve ridden lots on the road and lots on the dirt.
Sunny days and rainy days and windy days.
Hot days and cold days.
In the snow, and on the snow.
On one wheel and two wheels and on a tandem… even on a tandem, with half a bike bolted on the back with a trailer attached to it.
Of all the rides I’ve done, one stands out above all the rest…
… the present one.
LOTOJA TRAINING RIDE NUMBER 1
10 weeks from today, I’ll be lining up to ride farther than I’ve ever ridden before. 204 miles, from Logan, UT to Jackson Hole. Many a friend has tempted me to do it, but I’ve always been too scared. That’s a lot to ask of any body. But, I’m doing it… and I have a..
10 weeks from today, I’ll be lining up to ride farther than I’ve ever ridden before. 204 miles, from Logan, UT to Jackson Hole. Many a friend has tempted me to do it, but I’ve always been too scared. That’s a lot to ask of any body. But, I’m doing it… and I have a plan.
I think this will take me just over 9 hours to complete, which means I’ll have to average over 22 miles an hour. There’s 9000′ of elevation gain, but the air is thinner so that’s achievable if all goes according to plan.
The makings of my plan…
I’m going to focus heavily on two areas: nutrition and efficiency.
Today I screwed up my nutrition. It was good, until I ran out… and I ran out because I was lazy in my planning.
I rolled out with two bottles, each with 2 scoops of GQ6… one of them had 1 additional scoop of Re-ful. I also had 3 Honey Stinger Waffles, and 2 baggies of 2 scoops of GQ6 to make two more bottles.
Do the math with me… goal 100 miles at 20mph should take 5 hours. I drink 1 large bottle per hour and like to munch a waffle each hour. See the problem? I need 1 more baggie and 2 more waffles.
I was on the verge of bonking hard… bonking is a cardinal sin of training, and suicide while racing. If you bonk hard on a training ride you might need up to 3 weeks to recover. Do it during a race, and you lose… if you even finish.
Rookie move.
Lucky for me, as I’m cruising through San Juan Capistrano on mile 95 I see a cooler under a canopy… can I swing in to bum so water? Then I notice the girl is in a DRT kit… it’s Meghan and Brandon Brown volunteering at Casa de Ama, and they save my bacon with water and trail mix.
Bottom line, now is the time to figure out the nutrition… one thing I want to add is pickle juice – it’s supposed to work miracles with cramps, which I’ve suffered on long distances.
I was pretty efficient today. Over 50% of our ride was just 2-4 riders. Averaging 20.1mph was a good indicator of efficiency.
I’m really going to focus on Zone 2 training, going as fast as I can go keeping my heart rate low. For me, that means 20-23mph on flat terrain with little wind. Most of my miles except for Tuesday and Saturday will be in Zone 2… Tuesday and Saturday are my light it up days.
When you pay attention to your heart rate and speed you can experiment with your position… how aero are you? Get low, go fast. Find the perfect cadence. Aero helmet helps, so does an aero kit. Speaking of position… if anything is nagging at mile 10 or 20, I’ll be miserable at mile 100 and crippled before I finish. 30 miles in to today’s ride I had to adjust my saddle… fortunately Mike had a tool. Getting injured now could be a huge setback or worse.
After Zone 2 and aero, making sure the bike is perfect is key. Batteries are charged. Tire tread is great, 110 rear and 105 front today – running Conti GP400S 25c. Chain is clean and lubed – finding a lube that will go the distance will be crucial. Wheel bearings are immaculate and bottom bracket is perfect.
Boiling it down… I’ll spend the summer perfecting my food and keep my bike performing perfectly. Experimenting will take place on Saturdays when I’m riding 80-140 miles.
(My other brother from another mother… Brandon Brown)
KIDS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN
It’s 12:40 and I’m hopping on my MTB for my lunch ride. I shoot down the pavement and up the dirt embankment to the Dog Park trail network. What do I see, some of my friends that know about popcorn popping on the apricot tree… yep, they’re a little younger, but we hang out on Sundays...
It’s 12:40 and I’m hopping on my MTB for my lunch ride. I shoot down the pavement and up the dirt embankment to the Dog Park trail network. What do I see, some of my friends that know about popcorn popping on the apricot tree… yep, they’re a little younger, but we hang out on Sundays. Weird thing is… I had no idea they were into mountain biking, and they had no idea I can even ride a bike.
Hey fellas, what’s going on out here?
Fixing the trails up.
Where are the bikes?
Gotta fix the trails first. This is day 2.
You guys are awesome.
Will you hit the jumps with us?
Uhhh… well, ya see I’m on a hard tail otherwise…
Michelins
Rushing around, getting through the day’s work so I can wrap up in time for the Market Ride… ‘wound up with another sidewall tear, on the car this time. 70 miles from home, what a bummer! What a bummer to call AAA and get a truck to pick me up in 20 minutes. What a..
Rushing around, getting through the day’s work so I can wrap up in time for the Market Ride… ‘wound up with another sidewall tear, on the car this time. 70 miles from home, what a bummer!
What a bummer to call AAA and get a truck to pick me up in 20 minutes.
What a bummer to be towed 2 miles to Costco.
What a bummer to have my exact tire in stock and on sale.
What a bummer to kill time watching Transformers.
What a bummer to have zero traffic on the late drive home.
What a bummer to treat myself to a giant Yogurtland when I got back in town.
What a bummer to live in a capitalist country.
The tow truck driver escaped Cuba 3 years ago, left his family behind. He loves to dive. In Cuba there are no tanks, only snorkeling. In Cuba, there is no internet… except one “wifi park” where the per minute charges are outrageous. He’d picked me up at JensonUSA, noticed my license plate, asked if I rode bikes… I’d like to get a bike again, I’d like to see you on a bike again.
Don’t Fear The Reaper
Mountain biking. Road riding. Surfing. These are a few of my favorite things. Cougars. Cars. Sharks. I never think about. Single-track. Carving curves. Salty thrills. I live for. Any mountain biker can tell you that if you focus on not hitting the rock you’re sure to crash into it. You can’t not do something. Focus..
Mountain biking. Road riding. Surfing. These are a few of my favorite things.
Cougars. Cars. Sharks. I never think about.
Single-track. Carving curves. Salty thrills. I live for.
Any mountain biker can tell you that if you focus on not hitting the rock you’re sure to crash into it.
You can’t not do something.
Focus on what you want.
Greetings
Let me just make a challenge right now… meet someone new the next time you ride. People are so awesome. We all working hard to provide for ourselves and our loved ones. We carve out a little personal time to recharge and regenerate. Part of that time can be friendship… the pace line is it’s..
Let me just make a challenge right now… meet someone new the next time you ride. People are so awesome. We all working hard to provide for ourselves and our loved ones. We carve out a little personal time to recharge and regenerate. Part of that time can be friendship… the pace line is it’s own social club. Get involved.
Open your mouth, and introduce yourself… it’s weird, I know, but it’s awesome too.
Soon, you’re right into the nitty gritty of bonding and gems like this pop out:
“Daddy, at summer camp the girls told me if I look in a mirror and say Lady MacBeth 3 times she’ll appear with her bloody hands.” Hahahaha… so Charlie laid down with his little princess.
Priceless, and worth the price of feeling uncomfortable.
“Hi, I’m __________.”
If you’re a real social ninja, you can get really crazy…
“Hey, Paul… do you know Mike? Mike, meet Paul.”
173.6
Just Pedal.
I’m groggy and it’s foggy… I just want to lay in bed. But, I get up. Get dressed. Grab a bottle. Throw my leg over, and coast down my street. A crow picks at a squashed rabbit. Just me, my thoughts… well, my brain bucket. Mr. Bluebird is busy… all the birds are. Sounds like..
I’m groggy and it’s foggy… I just want to lay in bed. But, I get up. Get dressed. Grab a bottle. Throw my leg over, and coast down my street.
A crow picks at a squashed rabbit.
Just me, my thoughts… well, my brain bucket.
Mr. Bluebird is busy… all the birds are. Sounds like a jungle this morning.
I pedal some. Starting to wake up.
Lordy, it’s good to be living, while everyone else sleeps.
A few commuters and construction guys buzz by… pretty sure they’re not awake yet. Too close.
The legs sing, the lungs expand, the shadows shrink.
Get your buns outta bed, it’s much better to…
just pedal.
(use code JP20 for 20% off this tshirt, this week – click the image)
175.6
He’s Not Perfect
He’s not perfect. When I was 9, we built a giant glider out of balsa wood. It was tedious, and messy. I got glue everywhere. After a few weekends, the glider was ready to launch. It seemed huge – probably a 3′ wing span. We hooked it to these giant rubber bands and pulled way back. I..
He’s not perfect.
When I was 9, we built a giant glider out of balsa wood. It was tedious, and messy. I got glue everywhere. After a few weekends, the glider was ready to launch. It seemed huge – probably a 3′ wing span. We hooked it to these giant rubber bands and pulled way back. I released the catch. The wings blew off instantly and the glider’s body was moon-bound never to be seen again. I’ve never seen him laugh harder… and that’s all I could do when I forgot to put oil back into Shane’s motorcycle as it seized up in the middle of the desert.
He worked so hard keeping us warm and fed I have few early memories of him. It cost him his first marriage. He remarried and worked harder, on the marriage. On his 10th anniversary to Karen he giggled “it’s amazing they put up with us”. I think of that moment every time I am a boneheaded husband.
He loves boats and taught me how to sail. Occasionally, I’d hit him with the boom or drop the anchor too hard and he’d let go some startling, salty words… then a hilarious hoot. I use his knowledge of the wind every time I ride my bike.
He bought us both skateboards when he was 40 and I was 14. Our first ride down Country Hill Lane was great until he hit an acorn and almost auggered in… laughing and running to a save his life. That’s when I realized I could be kid-like my entire life.
He took us to the Whiting Reunion regularly where he introduced us to distant cousins and silly songs. One year he backed the rented motorhome into a hill and clogged the generator exhaust pipe. We spent all weekend trying to fix it. On the way out, we pulled forward a few feet and it started working, he looked at me with a giant grin. I love taking my own family to The reunion.
He put me to work after college. Nobody else would take me. I thought I was doing great until he fired me. We didn’t speak much for a few years. I got over it, mainly by remembering how much fun we had when times were not perfect. He’s my top advisor. I hired my own kids through their college years and love it when they ask for my ear.
He’s given me many gifts, none better than the ability to laugh at myself and try and do a little better every day.
He’s not perfect.
But, he’s perfect for me.
171.8
It’s Tri Time
Mike’s mom’s ’68 Mustang was loaded up with at least 5 teens every Friday night during the summer of ’78, San Clemente bound. The BMX bike and Schwinn Le Tour and unicycle tires all went flat. The surf was up, Just What I Needed: friends, waves and trouble. We’d ride skateboards down to Trestles. Boards..
Mike’s mom’s ’68 Mustang was loaded up with at least 5 teens every Friday night during the summer of ’78, San Clemente bound. The BMX bike and Schwinn Le Tour and unicycle tires all went flat. The surf was up, Just What I Needed: friends, waves and trouble.
We’d ride skateboards down to Trestles. Boards in one arm, sleeping bags around our necks… someone always wound up sitting on the cooler.
We learned to surf out of love, none of us had a clue just the bug. Paddling until our arms fell off we lay like sea lions on the morning sand. Rock, paper, scissors settled who took our few dollars to Carl’s Jr for Happy Stars.
But the surf is like a bad girlfriend. You never know what you’re going to get… warm lips or cold shoulder, waves or no waves, crowd or no crowd.
Eventually the air got back in those bike tires. Forlorn, and abandoned, all they needed was care. Loyal and faithful, ever ready. The bike is true love.
Which brings me to triathlon season: summertime.
Get up early and ride.
Do the chores.
Afternoon surf.
Today, Surfergirl surprised me. Basking in the afterglow of an excellent ride, I sipped cooly at Kaylani’s. Thinking (not doing) I oughta head home and get some things done. Her text said it all: heading to (surf) trails.
When you do the triathlon out of order, ride then surf, you usually end up with just a duathlon…
… Fathers’s (day) Weekend.
171.6
It Pays To Learn
The best race car drivers are those who understand the mechanics of the car and suspension. They aren’t the best because they go and wrench on the cars after testing. They are the best because the give the best feedback to the chief mechanic, and he and his team deliver a winning product, so remember:..
The best race car drivers are those who understand the mechanics of the car and suspension. They aren’t the best because they go and wrench on the cars after testing. They are the best because the give the best feedback to the chief mechanic, and he and his team deliver a winning product, so remember:
You don’t need to be an excellent bike mechanic, but… it sure is fun to work on your own bike, and can save you a lot of time, and give you a lot of confidence…
You don’t need to be an Olympic caliber coach…
Nor do you need a PHD in nutrition…
The more you learn about your bike and body and food, the better you’ll be able to connect with the real pros and get the best results… watch this video for details!
The Market Ride
At some point, the Market Ride relocated from a very dumpy market to San Clemente Cyclery. At some point, The Market Ride moves from a 5pm start to a 530pm start (Tues and Thurs daylight savings only). At some point, you gotta do it. Where else can you race a speeding train on your left..
At some point, the Market Ride relocated from a very dumpy market to San Clemente Cyclery. At some point, The Market Ride moves from a 5pm start to a 530pm start (Tues and Thurs daylight savings only). At some point, you gotta do it.
Where else can you race a speeding train on your left and Dolly Parton on your right?
There are no cars to speak of as you speed through miles of empty camp ground, through a tank tunnel, down an emergency runway onto Camp Pendleton Marine Base’s 2-lane country roads.
Flat.
Huge views of the ocean and open fields.
The guys are friendly and fast.
The finish is the longest, straightest sprint you’ll ever contest… the perfect place to test your limits.
Bring ID… required to get on the base.
171.6
Persistence
The number 1 quality Google is looking for in new hires is persistence. Not genius. Not charisma. Not who you know, but will you stick to it? Are you disciplined enough to see it through? Got an awesome text this morning from my formerly, and terribly, out of shape friend. 5 years ago, at 300+ pounds..
The number 1 quality Google is looking for in new hires is persistence. Not genius. Not charisma. Not who you know, but will you stick to it? Are you disciplined enough to see it through?
Got an awesome text this morning from my formerly, and terribly, out of shape friend.
5 years ago, at 300+ pounds he started riding.
He started competing.
Getting killed.
Now, he wins races from time to time. It’s taken 5 years.
I didn’t ask him to text me. He did because he knows I care and appreciate the battle.
Persistence isn’t easy, it’s not natural… it sure is fun to see, and be.
It’s Still Possible
It’s still possible to get better, faster in bike-speak. You can improve, but you’re going to have to change. You might have improved in the past simply by going on vacation. You can get a PR next week, next ride. Take today: Young Kevin is hitting the wall hard, chasing down Jorge. Then, a new..
It’s still possible to get better, faster in bike-speak. You can improve, but you’re going to have to change. You might have improved in the past simply by going on vacation. You can get a PR next week, next ride.
Take today:
Young Kevin is hitting the wall hard, chasing down Jorge. Then, a new young buck gallops up to him. A huge gap is opening. We steadily ramp up the pace. I’m slobbering all over my top tube… just, barely, making it over the top.
The rotations are fast. There’s a reason the skinny kids left us behind: we are old, and heavy… and gravity is going to steamroll us over their young fantasy.
This happens almost every week, but I’m here and I am different. I am fresh off 4 days of altitude and 150 miles of tempo. Compare that to my usual Saturday leg breaking ride and you’ll see Toddy B. Fresh.
Boom, I PR the 5 miles from Cook’s Corner to the finish (231 Strava recordings)… simply because I’m more rested and still have the legs to skewer one of the kids and half the group.
Not braggin’, just sayin’ … you can do better if you’re willing to change your approach.
Where’s The Finish Line?
A real conversation, only the names have been changed to protect the innocent. Horatio A. calls up Todd to chat about his team kit order and as the convo concludes the unOFFICIAL TMWC comes up. He’s curious about how it’s different from every other TMWC. Is it faster? Well, yeah it’s totally nuts… but you’ll be fine...
A real conversation, only the names have been changed to protect the innocent.
Horatio A. calls up Todd to chat about his team kit order and as the convo concludes the unOFFICIAL TMWC comes up. He’s curious about how it’s different from every other TMWC.
Is it faster?
Well, yeah it’s totally nuts… but you’ll be fine.
Do we all do the Varsity Loop?
No, we all do the original course… but there’s no re-group.
Do we race all the way to the end?
Yep, just like every week.
Really? What about the 2nd re-group and the way we just cruise back down Antonio to the start?
Ahhh… well bro, the finish is not at the start.
It’s not?
Nope… it’s at the end of the Drag Strip, where the 15 m.p.h. sign is right before the right hander.
So that’s the finish.
Yep, there’s an old piece of tape across the road next to the 15 mph sign… and tomorrow I’ll be testing out the new timing system.
We’re timing the ride that day?
Yep, that’s why it’s the unOFFICIAL TMWC. Plus, we’ll ride back together and mow down some delicious food and honor this year’s champions.
How the heck can you plan to win if you don’t know where the finish is?
(Are you registered?)
(the best chips money can buy)
(this is what our sign looks like… I’ll get a better pic)
