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THE ADVENTURE
SOMETIMES, the road really is better than the inn. We realize that whatever we are aiming for may not be all that great, but...
... putting in the work gives outsized returns.
Gratitude blooms.
Like today.
My pal Charles charts out this loop...
- 32 miles
- 4700' of vert
- topping out at 10,000'
... which seems really cool.
Until we hit our first massive fallen tree and bushwhack around it.
Then, patches of snow,
too long to ride.
Followed Puke Hill.
The view...
- The Great Salt Lake to the west
- Park City to the East
- Not a soul around
... stunning.
Somehow the goals seem weak, lacking...
... when beauty abounds.
If we'll just stop to look.
===
165ish, no scale
7ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/72/10 per Strava
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHEN TRAINING ISN'T ACCORDING TO PLAN
THE BEST LAID PLANS can go sideways for a variety of reasons. I'm not gonna list 'em since I don't want to poison your mind and have you...
... manifesting awfulness.
'Cause I'm questioning just that about myself.
Did I manifest...
- 3 days off at I Do Epic
- riding with friends short on time
- puking my guts out last night after a miserable 70 minute ride
... or, is it just life?
Doesn't matter too much,
except part of my GrandMasterRipOnRaceDay plan...
... was a massive training week this week to make up for last week
and leave me slightly buried for BWR next week.
I consulted AI all night...
- possibly caused by using pure table sugar on my rides
- hydration via room temp peppermint tea
- a few Tums
... while Surfergirl laughed at me and secured the remedy.
Arose after 10 hours, feeling a lot better.
Energy seems good enough to day...
... to meet up with the local slayers.
The prudent thing would be to skip the meet up,
spin at most, or sleep...
... a proper adjustment.
But, screw it...
... I've got plans, too.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/57/22 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Cry Havoc, Jack Carr
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HE'S A GENIUS
WE ALL HAVE, or should have, wish we had, that friend who can fix anything. Even though we've upped our skills over the years there's always that...
... next level repair.
We can't do it.
Like my SID fork, today...
- packing in on descents
- rebound slower than a sloth
- adjustment dials backing out and loose
... I was in a bind.
Turns out the great C Gonzer lives where I'm visiting,
racing pals from a decade ago.
Within about about 20 minutes,
he had it working nearly good as new.
How'd you learn how to do this?
I just really like working on my bikes.
That's it?
Well, I am a mechanical engineer by trade.
That's it...
- love what we do
- study the basics
- achieve mastery
... genius level work.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
80/57/23 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Feeling Is The Secret, by Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GETTING HIGH
TRAINING AT SEA LEVEL is no way to prepare for high elevation activities. Sure we have extra oxygen to go hard, which is always nice. But, it'd be even nicer...
... to be able to rip when high.
Which begs the question...
... why am I working so darn hard, putting out so little power?
Nah, that's obvious.
Kinda.
90 minutes into the ride today,
we'd been ripping up Big Mountain Pass (f'real).
Challenging?
Yes.
Wheezing?
Yes.
Gapped?
Indeed.
Here's the rill dill...
... even though the power is relatively low,
the breathing is labored.
Which presents a realhonesttogoodness truth...
- breathing too hard
- not thinking 100% clearly
- focusing on staying on pace
... it's hard to stay on top of the hydration and nutrition at altitude significantly above our normal.
We, me especially, gotta force it.
Another important consideration at high elevations...
... it's better to pace on HR than PWR.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/71/12 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: Feeling Is The Secret, by Neville Goddard
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SETTLING...
THE IDEA OF SETTLING, for most of us, is repulsive. We'd never do that because our standards are too high...
... or, so we think.
Because we don't know better.
Welp,
today I realized
I've totally been settling.
While we do have trails to ride near home...
- skinny single track with rain ruts
- weeds elbow high
- punch climbs
... it's nothing like Utah..
Today, outside of Kamas was incredible.
My pals, PViddy and TimmyV, had been telling me it was great up here.
But, c'mon...
- smooth, fast and flowy
- adorned with greenery and trees
- berms so perfect the suspension compresses as you no-brake it
... expertly engineered trials.
Waywaywaywayway better than my home trails.
Once we know we're settling the only question is...
... what are we gonna do about it?
===
165ish, no scale
8ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
82/61/21 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
A GOOD BREAK
TAKING TIME OFF can be restorative. Sometimes it's on purpose, other times its an unplanned forced situation. Either way...
... we're anxious to get back at it.
Like right now.
Being that I was committed to be all in at the biz conference...
... I skipped the last few days.
Including the typical epic Saturday.
Everything feels really good except my gut, which is feeling quite bloated...
... after lots of good food.
I suppose that's part of the anxiety, not...
- the drop in fitness
- the packed on pounds
- the connecting with the crew
... the sensation of being a caged animal.
Some might caution,
don't over do it.
A fair warning if working back from an injury.
But, this belly is yellin' at me,
get after it,
right now.
Can't wait to start shedding and shredding manana.
(I've got 10 days to turn it around before BWR UT)
===
165ish, no scale
78ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/63/20 per Strava - very rested
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
>
AI DRIVEN?
AI could be all it's cracked up to be, if we can only learn how to use it to our benefit. But, new things can be...
... a challenge to learn.
Even scary.
One of the take aways on day 3 of I Do Epic was regarding AI,
and it got me thinking about racing...
... because as we say, Racing is life!.
My grand takeaway is AI's ability to deliver what we are looking for has much to do with regarding the prompts.
For example, knowing what you know about me...
... create a training program as if you were Javier Sola
Just like us at a race,
AI needs its head screwed on straight in order to deliver.
And a proper prompt is the starting point.
Making it human...
... what is the main prompt driving our training?
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/73/12 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WE CALL IT SPOOKED
THE UNMISTAKABLE ENERGY of the start line can be overwhelming for the uninitiated. We feel it the moment we arrive at an event, and when we line up the vibe can take us...
... from confident and courageous to literal shaking.
Plans melting.
Rather than the controlled missile launch we'd imagined, we are overcome by the complete chaos of undirected explosions.
And, that's okay,
until we want a different outcome.
On Day 2 of I Do Epic, we spent much the day in a massive barn learning how a master horse trainer teaches and guides the beasts with energy vs force.
Demonstrating the animal's sensitivity to each other in the herd as well as to us humans, as we approached and worked with the horses.
Thankfully, the inanimate endurance tools we depend on...
- bicycles
- helmets
- shoes
... cannot sense our moods or energy.
Can you imagine mounting a spooked bicycle?
I've often wondered how I am able to reach a place of calm and certainty with hundreds, sometimes thousands, of my "closest friends"...
... so close to losing it?
I don't have a good answer other than...
- a safe race
- an unleashing of the training put in
- finishing knowing there was nothing left in the tank
... experience and expectation.
But, the old cowboy did share one nugget that really resonated with me...
... We create what we anticipate.
===
165ish, no scale
8ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/84/3 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
START WHERE YOU ARE
TRAVEL BRINGS IT'S OWN CHALLENGES when it comes to maintaining our fitness. Will we have time, will there be space, do we have the equipment...
... will we even want to?
Have the energy?
When I signed up for I Do Epic Live in the hinterlands of Idaho, I figured we'd be starting early and ending late so...
- 27 hours
- 380 miles
- 27000' of vert
... I made sure I'd put in a large training block prior.
Taking a break made sense, but...
... a funny thing happened when I woke up.
I had two and half hours to kill,
while situated on the shore of the Snake river,
with a lovely and lonely gravel road echoing my vibe.
My original plan was out...
- a long walk
- a ton of push ups
- a million air squats
... a quick and glorious spin was in.
===
165ish, no scale
7.5ish hours sleep
690ish anti-oxidant level, no scanner
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
89/97/-8 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
I WANTED TO STOP SO BAD
GETTING AFTER IT for a long period of time can be a beautiful thing, if we are in the right mindset and our bodies are prepared...
... and we're used to it.
Even addicting.
But, if our head's not into it,
our bodies not prepped,
it's been a while...
... quitting looks might tasty.
Like today.
There we were, riding up one of the most beautiful climbs in Utah, the Alpine Loop...
- few cars on the road
- perfect spring weather
- forever views up into the snowpack
... a coupla dudes riding a good fast tempo.
And, about 45 minutes in...
... I wanted to pull over.
Have a smoke, errr bite of my bar,
dip my toes in the stream.
It would have been so easy,
and lovely.
Which is why I didn't do it.
Because I know from experience pushing through these moments is...
... what it takes to finish anything strong.
Well, and the reward of a chocolate chip cookie at Sundance...
... would be that much sweeter.
===
165.8/12.7%
7ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
91/107/-17 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE OTHER CROSSTRAINING
IF WE'RE IN A RELATIONSHIP of any kind we're most likely going to be exposed to activities which don't perfectly align with...
... our primary objective.
Got it?
Yeah, we get it.
The thingaboutitis...
... it's usually more than okay.
Surfergirl loves to hike.
Any time we're roadtripping and I'm in a hurry to get to the beddown...
... she's plotting a once in a life time hike.
Like today,
just after 6pm
3 hours from our destination...
... we absolutely had to hike Kolob canyon for no less than 2 hours!
Yes, that's an explanation point because...
... old diesels need their beauty sleep
Her "reward" for this detour is me stretching out while she drives, which I'm pretty sure...
... she purposely fakes like she's tired and unnecessarily jerks the wheel so I'll get behind it.
While I have to admit the hike was outstanding, and served to remind me that I should do some regular hiking to prepare for the potential to be hiking at Leadville...
...it's pretty clear I have not properly trained her on driving in a relaxing and soothing manner nor bowing down to the needs of her old man's sleep.
===
165.8/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
no Stretches
88/98/-9 per Strava
What I'm reading: How To Fail At Almost Anything and Still Win Big, by Scott Adams
>
BECAUSE I ASKED...
MEMORIAL DAY IS A BUSY ONE around here. All kinds of people out enjoying the day: runnin, bikin, swimmin, surfin, paddlin...
... things were chaotic.
I got a late start.
Preferring to get some work knocked and start prepping the van for our road trip...
... I slipped out just past noon.
There is a steep hill above a picturesque beach that attracts locals, nonlocals and everyone in between.
At the top, I saw an older woman lugging two chairs for her and her ancient father.
Normally, I'd just wiggle around them and the rest and go on about my day...
... but I remembered.
Hi there, can I help you with those chairs?
Oh, yes, please.
Leaned my bike on a palm tree.
Let's go down a little bit more, where it's a little flatter.
C'mon dad, over here.
This looks pretty good.
Thank you.
No problem.
How did you know we needed help, nobody else noticed?
Oh, I prayed I'd be useful today.
With that, I was off on a lovely tour of the southern part of our county...
... pavement, gravel roads and single track.
You're probably thinking Nice virtue signal Todd...
... to which I'll say, thinking of others is not my default or my strong suit.
I have to work at getting my heart to be fully functional.
===
165.8/12.7%
8.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
91/113/-22 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE RANDOMNESS OF PROGRESS
NICHING DOWN is a legit way to go about maximizing results. We study the experts, learn all we can, put it into practice. The goal is...
... supreme mastery.
But, is narrow and deep the only way to get it done?
The best way?
Personally, I think I've learned more studying endurance athletes and coaches from other sports than I have focusing on bike racing.
Maybe, probably, there is more literature and research available.
Here are a few of my favorites
- running - Born To Run, Christopher McDougall
- triathlon - anything by Phil Maffetone
- swimming - Total Immersion Method, Terry Laughlin
- natural fitness - Natural Born Heroes, Christopher McDougall
... because they introduced me to new ways of thinking about endurance and fitness.
Bringing in randomness to our experience...
- events
- people
- travel
... can deliver game-changing progress hacks.
If we'll just open our ears, eyes, hearts.
===
165.8/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
88/99/-11 per Strava
>
AFTER TAKING SEVERAL READINGS
SIMULATING OUR 'A' EVENTS months in advance can be quite revealing, in bad...
... and good ways.
Once, isn't enough.
Every weekend is too much.
It's not a damned if we do,
damned if we don't situation.
More like a...
- damn?
- damn!
- hot damn!
... outcome.
With that in mind I turned to Grok to help me assess today's simulation because...
- what happens if I cut ballast?
- what workouts would improve my time?
- are there supplements that aid lung function at altitude?
... AI is damn fine when it comes to crunching numbers.
Because I'm a true and proud supernerd...
- 2 previous attempts in last 7 years
- body weight on those days
- power numbers as well
... I have the data, going back years.
I put Grok to work...
- I can improve
- I'm in a pretty good place already
- This is gonna be a heckuva lotta fun
... and came out with what I already sensed.
Grok thinks I can beat my previous PR,
which seems absolutely ludicrous...
... mainly because I have a lot of higher value things I want to accomplish this summer.
This is a typical use of AI for me...
- confirm/test/explore what's possible
- learn how to do things I can't figure out
- assist in leveraging my tiny helmet covered bean's processing power
... are you using AI to evaluate and make moves?
As the great Wille Nelson sings...
... After taking several readings I'm surprised to find my mind's (and body) still fairly sound.
===
167/12.7% oof!
7.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
90/114/-24 per Strava went kinda deep today
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
IT'S A LONE WOLF'S WORLD
NO MATTER HOW MANY friends are planning to do the A event with us, regardless of how many weekends we link up to train together...
... the bulk of our efforts are alone.
Unseen.
By nearly everybody, except that neighbor who we pass by at the same...
... godforbidden time each dark morning.
We're on the hunt...
- miles
- skills
- fortitude
... for more.
And even when we do link up, if we're truly committed...
... we might breakup, or off.
For example, I'm committed to ride a spritely tempo between all the worthy climbs tomorrow...
... where I'll move into the bottom to mid-threshold.
Because that's gonna be my pace at the A race,
and I've really got to train it now,
to maintain it then.
So, yeah, 7 miles up the climb I'll probably be alone...
... just like I'll most likely be on raceday.
Which is why I'm working on this jersey to where in in Leadville.
Personally, I feel like an inspirational, personalized jersey is good for...
... a 1-2% increase in performance.
If you're of the same persuasion...
- super aero jersey
- amazing imported Italian fabrics
- no minimum order required, make just 1
... go here: https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project
===
165.6/12.7% (time to start trimming blubber)
8.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
85/82/2 per Strava (time to bump these numbers up)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
13 WEEKS SHOULD BE ENOUGH
AT SOME POINT, the training for the A event has gotta get real. Sure we have our base miles just because we are base-ically addicted, but...
... that's not gonna cut it.
Gotta get specific.
As of this moment, I'm 13 weeks out from starting the Leadville Trail 100.
It'll be my 8th time.
While I know the drill, I also know...
... I'm nowhere near ready.
Haven't done an hour long climb...
... since I don't know when.
Haven't ridden over 5 hours since October.
Haven't ridden my MTB more than twice a week in ages...
... haven't
haven't
haven't
haven't
haven't.
Equally overwhelming and energizing...
... the challenge is elephant-sized.
And, I'm gonna attack it one mile at a time.
===
164.6/12.5%
8.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
86/89/-4 per Strava
>
STRETCH GOALS
STRETCHING seems to go in and out of popularity. When, how long, which moves are a essential...
... and that's not counting yoga and pilates.
Where to start?
That's a good question.
I'm no expert, which is why I check in with my physical therapy pal, Scott, from time to time.
Mostly when I'm miserable
or injured.
Which got me thinking.
The last couple of days my bike fit felt like it had changed...
... which is impossible, right?
Then, I thought...
... could my body have changed somehow?
Thinking back on my many visits with Scott...
... and how stretches had fixed various aches and debilitating pains.
It hit me like a ton of lycra!
I haven't been stretching regularly,
at all.
Got back at it this morning...
... dang, I'm stiff!
But, guess what...
... the bike fit felt back to awesome.
Stretch goals are the kind that have us reaching to our limits to accomplish what seems nigh impossible...
... I like setting those.
New/old stretch goal...
... stretch every night as part of my shutdown sequence.
===
163.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
√ Stretches
86/91/-6 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT MASTERING THE BASICS LOOKS LIKE
THE VERY BEST PROS have mastered the basics. From techniques to tools, from sleeping to sprinting. They have it...
... all down cold.
How do we know?
Because at the very the very best are still practicing the basics...
... only the output is at a much higher level.
Duh!
Yeah, I know.
But, the real question is are we chasing...
- fads
- trends
- shiny objects
... or working diligently on mastering the basics?
===
163.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
FROM FLOOR TO CEILING
BUILDING FITNESS can appear to be a mystery to the uninitiated. For the reasons, holding onto it is illusive. And losing it...
... downright easy.
It's a shame.
If the unwashed simply established a floor...
- a minimum daily commitment
- built over weeks
- and months
... they'd find their ceiling to be nearly limitless.
Instead, they get the bug or come clean with their naked selves...
... and progress rapidly for a short season.
Get thrown off track,
and start over.
We know different.
Our floor maybe is simple as getting outta bed and kitting up...
... knowing it's easy to get out the front door at that point.
After that, it's just a matter of raising the floor...
... to see how high we can fly.
Things I think about while riding zone two for 2 hours...
... because that was my floor today.
And, I always ride on Mondays.
===
165.6/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/90/-4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
PRISONS WE CHOOSE TO LIVE INSIDE
>
HOW FAR SHOULD WE TAKE OUR BRO-SCIENCE?
ONCE WE FIGURE OUT the gear and products that work for our bodies, it's, honestly, just amazing. It fits. It works. And we stick with it...
... because we rip.
Easy.
We don't want to change.
That can be a problem if what we love goes out of stock or worse...
... out of production all together.
A few years back, when Wahoo acquired Speedplay they dumped my tried and MTB pedals.
The Frogs.
Had I known, I'd have purchased at least 10 pair of pedals and probably 100 sets of cleats.
To my horror, I logged on and learned the sadsad news.
No mas.
When I woke and realized I was out of my favorite carb mix today...
- water
- plain ol' sugar
- and Liquid IV for flavor and electrolytes
... well, yeah, I took a stab a making my own.
You should witnessed the...
- disgust
- concern
- warnings
... from the crew when we stopped to refill our bottles midride.
I shared my mix was 4 tablespoons of sugar...
- you're gonna get diabetes
- go into a coma
- die early
... I could only laugh.
Just what exactly do you think is in your favorite powder or gel?
I got the idea from an ultra-trail runner I follow on YouTube.
He'd wanted to experiment and discovered how sucrose...
- quickly absorbed glucose
- more slowly absorbed fructose
... breaks down in the small intestine.
It's a 1:1 ration,
most high end mixes are 1:.8.
Ever look at the ingredients of what you're drinking?
My 4 very level tablespoons = 50 grams of carbohydrate.
But, isn't that gonna kill ya?
It's about the same as a can of Coke,
or a couple of candy bars.
So, yes, it will absolutely...
- crush our health
- give us that orange with 4 toothpicks look
- and lead to all kinds of degenerative diseases
... unless we are ripping and burning it up.
That 50 grams is about 50% of what I consume per hour...
... when getting after it.
How'd it work over 3 bottles?
Flawlessly.
Gonna test full strength this week.
This is bro-science...
... so take it with a literal and proverbial grain of salt.
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
660 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/88/-3 per Strava
>
FIRST (TASTE OF) BLOOD
WE'RE LIKE WILD ANIMALS. Once we get the first taste of adrenalin, charging through the countryside...
... with reckless abandon.
We're hooked.
The thingaboutitis...
... we gotta get that first taste.
16 years ago, my pal Dr. Jeff couldn't keep from...
... slobbering all over me.
About gravel riding.
You would love it.
Seems kinda lame.
Trust me.
Tell me why.
Well, it'a a combination of two things you love: road and mtb.
And it's fun?
Oh yes!
It took me 5 years to finally see a signal...
- steel
- heavy
- leather bags
... a lonely gravel bike on sale at the local bike shop.
I thought it was radical to ride the tires at such low pressure...
- 38mm
- 60 lbs
- with tubes
... now I'm on tubeless carbon hoops, rolling 18 up front 20 in the back.
So much has improved!
For the first year or more I rode gravel alone...
... like a lunatic in the wild.
It took 5 more years till a few of us were getting together...
... and another 3ish to do what we did today.
Ruckus URBN GRVL group rides.
In town for the weekend, Jeff joined us for today's masterpiece...
... I'm not sure he made the connection on the impact he's had on us.
===
165.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
6200 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
88/101/-14 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
STOP BEING MEDIUM
THERE'S A REASON so many of us struggle to improve. Especially the newest of us...
... doing all we can to hang on.
Never improving.
I heard it said so well and succinctly today by one of my fave running coaches, the great Fred Duncan.
The question how much work we can survive in one session, it's...
- hard
- easy
- hard, again
... how many high quality outputs can we stack over weeks and months and years?
If we aren't resting, active-recovering we can't go hard enough on our hard days to see any improvement...
... we become really excellent at medium.
And, stay there.
Which is fine, if you're into that sorta thing.
But, I know you're not.
Which brings up today's ride...
- 23 miles
- ave HR 93
- ave PWR 102
... we did the impossible.
I say impossible because it's nearly impossible to get a group of athletes together and not start pushing...
... we pulled it off by setting the tone ahead of time.
The BRO ride is a super easy conversational cruiser...
... because bros need bro time.
Before slaying it on the weekend.
If you want to do a deeper dive on Fred's post it's here: https://x.com/Fred__Duncan/status/2055274916199502322?s=20
===
164.6/12.5%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/75/8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ZONE TWO MUCH
ANYBODY CAN RIDE ZONE 2. It's easy. Zone 1 is easy. Coasting is easier. The trick is...
... to stay there.
For a long time.
The past few months I've been doing my Z2 on the mountain bike,
on kinda steep trails.
Not spinning,
a lot of torque...
... then completely off when descending.
Which is somewhat easier than what I did today...
- keeping on the pedals
- with high cadence
- limited coasting
... Zone 2 on mainly flat, with a few rollers.
Turns out 2:80 spend doing...
- 90 minutes Z2
- 31 min Z1
- 9 min z3
... is it's own kinda hard.
1261 calories burned ain't nothing.
The mental game to stay at a given pace and basically never stop pedaling...
... regardless of the terrain.
I know you zwifties are wanting to mock me,
and I'm totally down with how much harder
it can be on a trainer.
I get it.
The real point is this kind of training...
... is extremely effective at building physical and mental endurance.
===
165.2/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
630 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE EMOTIONAL ROLLERCOASTER OF MID-WEEK RACING
MID-WEEK RACING has been around for ages and continues to endure because it's great training, fun to bring the community together...
... and get in some ripping intensity.
400 showed up to race Over The Hump last night.
A very healthy number of age group competitors...
... ready to battle.
I've missed the last two seasons,
so it was exciting to finally make it out.
I entered Elite 45+ looking to see how I'd rate.
Warming up,
I saw a lot of friends.
But, I was missing one.
My pal Eric was senselessly killed last year while riding his bike early in the morning, by a druggy.
After a decade of racing together...
- bro hugging each week
- seeing his babies grow up
- and turn into fine little racers
... there was a hole in my heart.
On the start line,
the energy was high,
the confidence eager.
We shot out.
I maneuvered leading into the first single track,
thinking okay this feels right.
There was only one solid climb,
20 minutes of redlining.
From leading,
to wheezing,
to 7th.
Ouch!
The downhill was a couple of miles long,
and it felt good - even PRd it.
Sliding out onto the double track,
I could see 5th and 6th,
and closed the gap.
Two of the three of us were pulling hard back to the finish line.
Just as we're about to hit the final single track before the finish,
we're caught by some of the guys we'd dropped.
At the same time,
we enter the tight turns we merge with the Beginners and Sport racers.
It's not pretty.
Some of us give the slower riders space,
others mob through.
I go from 5th to 8th.
Frustrated.
Upset about getting beat by the dude who wasn't pulling with us.
Finishing,
I stormed off.
Not my finest moment.
After a recovery drink and some spinning...
- reveling in my anger
- knowing it would motivate me
- looking forward to some specific training
... I realized how great it is to be racing.
Once I'd changed into my tshirt and jeans, I had time to reflect...
- we live in a free and prosperous country
- have the time and energy for mid-week racing
- I'm feeling 100% recovered from my TBI, while Eric is riding in the heavens and his family navigates life without him.
... and be extremely grateful.
===
165.2/12.4%
8ish hours sleep
590 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/83/1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
CONSISTENCY IS BORING AND...
THERE'S BEEN A LOT OF CHATTER on the interwebs regarding what happens by simply being consistent. What is often left out is the biggest battle...
... which must be won.
Boredom.
That's what the naysayers are thinking as we head out into the morning sunrise doing the unfathomable.
Sure, it can be monotonous to do the same workout over and over.
But, we aren't newbs or drones and know how to counter that by mixing it up, and socializing with likeminded beasts.
With unholy motivation we focus...
... on the rewards.
Months and years later,
we're nothing like the person we started out as.
Consistency might look boring to an outsider, but...
... we know it's lethal.
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/-4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DANGEROUS ENCOUNTERS
THERE'S DANGER just crossing the street. But, people do it and a lot more because it's part of life. We, on the other hand...
... like to raise the stakes.
Ignoring the warnings.
For years, I have casually read the signs regarding mountain lions and rattle snakes on our local trails and all over the western US.
In the process I've...
- a close up encounter with a big cat
- run over many sunbathing snakes
- stared down coyotes
... had one real scare and many thrills.
The cat was the most shocking.
I thought I was seeing a large loping coyote way up the gravel road.
Not uncommon.
Keep going.
Kept seeing as elevation changed.
Rounded a corner only to see a giant cat perpendicular to the road.
Staring at me.
Didn't do what you're supposed to do...
- stand your ground
- make yourself look bigger
... back pedaled and ripped up a single track, braking to make the turn at the top.
Went back to that spot many, many times,
raced up that hill as fast as possible...
... never came close to needing to brake to make the turn at the top.
That my friends is living.
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/4 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
TIMING
TIMING IS EVERYTHING, and there is so much to be timed when it comes to racing. To time anything to perfection necessitates...
... starting very early.
Ultimately, requiring less energy.
We saw this today at the Giro.
The winning sprinter producing fewer watts than 2nd or 3rd place...
- 1480w
- 1870w
- 1580w
... making it look easy(er).
Because he timed his acceleration perfectly.
Not unlike sprinting for the line, the great Scott Adams stated...
... the secret to success is energy management.
Which helped me lean into doing my best and most important work early in the day when I'm most alert and creative.
What else...
- workouts
- relationships
- spiritual exploits
... can we improve with better timing?
===
165.2/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/87/-2 per Strava
>
BLAME IT ON THE DONUT
STAYING ON TOP OF THE RECOVERY is super easy to skip. Especially, if we are really on top of it...
... day after day.
We're rested.
When the opportunity presents itself to overdo it...
... we do it.
We think we'll be fine.
We aren't going to do die, but...
... we will be less than fine.
Like today.
After shortchanging myself on sleep two nights in a row,
getting talked into more than easy spinning,
skipping the hyper-ice sessions...
... all variables I couldashoulda controlled,
I suffered today.
The sting of ripping,
felt stale and suffocating.
When looked back on the data...
- on trails I've ridden
- raced up
- stomped
... I actually set some PRs.
The difference when between being fatigued vs fresh is stark...
... longfaced-droopy vs JUBILANT.
Eventually, I succumbed to the efforts,
pulling the plug halfway up a steepytechy...
... and limped to the donut shop.
Where, after a few moments and calories and water I miraculously...
... felt very fauxfresh!
===
165.2/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
6500 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/100/-13 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BRO!
ALL RACING AND TRAINING ain't the way to do it. The ubersuccessful connect with others on a deeper level, it's the glue we need...
... to help us hold it all together.
Not the training and racing.
Life.
Some say getting out and getting after is...
... cheap therapy.
I won't argue with that.
Getting out, and away, for a conversational workout...
... can be life changing.
Lifesaving.
But, we already know that.
Most of our friends don't,
or don't make the time,
or have the friendship.
Which got me out on the road way earlier than I wanted to today,
because I knew my pal had been traveling a ton,
and could squeeze in a ride.
And got me thinking...
- early start
- easy terrain
- all bikes welcome
... why not create a BRO ride?
Details in the image.
(Surfergirl has had this going with the Trail Angels for decades).
===
165.6/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
580 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/84/0 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
BEST EFFORTS OSCILLATE
DOING OUR BEST. We hear from the time we take our first steps, through our teens, into adulthood. Then we preach it...
... to anyone who will listen.
Because it works.
As the great Tony Horton used to say on the P90X videos...
.. do your best, and forget the rest.
It's a legit way to live, except...
... our best oscillates.
We can get better at our best...
... is there anything more exciting than knowing that?
I found a fun features on Strava today.
The Best Efforts Power Curve has a little box we can check and...
... Show Estimated FTP.
The last 6 weeks I've been pretty dialed.
According to the app I've raced FTP 10 watts.
The feedback is helpful.
Knowing we can improve...
... is a devine gift.
===
165.6/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/91/-5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
GO BIG, PUNK!
THROWING THE GEARS TO THE BIG RING used to be much more of a thing. With the advent of 13-speed, not so much. Lot's of 1x drivetrains...
... making things simpler.
Better...
- lighter
- more aero
- cleaner look
... depends on the use case.
MTB started it all,
can't even buy one with 2x.
Gravel bikes are mostly there,
some 2x systems.
Road and TT have special use for 1x.
Track and BMX have always kept it clean and simple.
Anyway, there I was this morning doing my dawgawn bestest to try and recapture my PR from Jan 2026 on a segment called Pain Cave because...
... who wants to just cruse home after hammerin'?
And it dawned on me...
... back in Jan I forced myself to stay in the big ring all the way up the steeps.
Did it work?
Kinda.
Knocked 2:47 off of last week's tepid attempt...
... still 48 seconds off the PR.
I looked back at my scale logs...
... I'm 2 lbs heavier, .5% higher in body fat.
Then my weight training...
... I'm doing a lot more leg work Sunday and Monday.
Probably not a great way to prep for Wednesday.
Lastly I looked at time spent in Zone 4 or above...
... 48 min in Jan vs 49 min today.
I'll take another cracky at it...
- come in lighter
- more rested
- caffeinated
... attacking with punk blazing style.
Check 'em out: https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-punk-collection
===
165.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
86/92/-7 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE SUPER SUCCESSFUL DIET THAT IS POTENTIALLY KILLING OUR POTENTIAL
THERE ARE A LOT OF SUCCESSFUL plans to decrease our extra ballast. Perhaps the most powerful is one that we rarely actually apply to getting lean...
... yet allow to dictate our ultimate potential.
Case in point.
Eat the same meal, day after day...
... we'll get sick of it.
Eat less.
Waste away.
Lose muscle.
It's just a fact.
Yet, we do that same thing...
- same group rides
- same strength work
- same A race targeted
... with so much of our activities.
The inertia against improvement is overwhelming.
We can't do more,
become more.
We stall,
or worse,
we give it all up.
And why not?
It's become boring.
However, who can blame even the most monk-like amongst us who pack on the pounds because...
... there are so many amazing food choices to be had.
These days, living in any kind of a city, even the smallest, there can be found really creative and fun dining experiences.
We can eat more,
yes, become more.
Maybe not the more we are looking for.
If we're really going to reach new heights...
- new groups
- new strength work
- new A races targeted
... we must mix it up.
PS this applies to everything: love, family, business, sprituality.
===
164.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
720 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
84/80/3 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY COACHING IS MAGICAL?
REACHING OUT TO THOSE we think are in the know is pretty common practice. We can glean a lot. Getting serious about outcomes and...
... hiring a coach is next level.
#worth-it
I was thinking about this because last week I had two different people reach out to me about training questions.
Asking for my input.
Here's the dill.
For the most part a coach...
... isn't going to wave a wand and fix us.
What we're really paying a coach to do is...
... to tell us what we don't want to hear and hold us accountable.
It's rarely a question of knowing what to do.
Much more a question of willingness to do it.
And, ya know, when you're payin' for it...
... it does magically work.
(and, I heckuvalot faster than wingin' it)
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
730 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/87/-2 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
MASTERY OF THIS LAW = MASTERY ON RACEDAY
THERE IS AN UNDERAPPRECIATED MIRACLE all racers experience, yet often fail to recognize or implement in everyday life. If we did...
... who knows what we could accomplish.
Parkinson's Law.
Regardless of the distance or event...
... given a set of parameters,
a cohort of competitors,
we go faster.
Nobody signs up for a marathon with the idea of finishing...
... When I get around to it.
We laser in on the distance, time required, prep like mad...
... and execute.
Parkinson's Law...
... Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.
We know this because on the week of the A race...
... we magically get all our work down days early so we can travel and chill before the big event.
The gun goes off and...
... amazingly, produce heretofore unknown abilities setting PRs and often hitting or exceeding our goal finish times.
Getting our workdays wrapped up within 8-10 hours was burned into our brains through the school system.
It's a tough habit to break.
Accepting a reasonable output during those same hours is mollifying...
... but, uninspiring.
Dramatically shrinking the time to finish the race or project...
Massively expanding the output...
Defying Parkinson's law...
... should be our nature in all we do.
===
164.6/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
85/89/-4 per Strava
>
MISSLE LOCK
BEING IN THE DRAFT is such a wonderful feeling. We slot in and feel ourselves get sucked along at...
... a dramatically reduced effort.
It's slight at first.
Just like when we lose it...
... we slowly come uncoupled until suddenly we're on our own.
So it was on this morning's ride to the ride.
Me and my pals, jamming up the coast.
I bombed down a sizable hill in front,
shot up the other side,
they slingshot on by.
And the gap just starts opening wider and wider.
It was too early to be burning matches.
I made the prudent choice,
flicked my safety cover...
... and acquired missile lock.
It took 5 or so minutes of a measured effort, but then I closed enough to start to feel the draft...
... it's like the radar going from beeping to a solid tone.
Target acquired,
detonation imminent.
The rest of the ride would be much of the same...
... alternating attacks trying to drop each other.
I'd learned my lesson,
stayed locked and loaded the rest of the ride.
As a reward to ourselves,
we honed in on Parlor Donuts.
===
166.2/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
710 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
noLower Body: ATG squats and split squats
87/103/-16 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE EPIC SUMMER TRAINING
WHELP, IT'S THAT TIME A YEAR when most of us have/will have/should have/ better have something to train for this summer. Otherwise...
... what's the point of living?
Going all summer without a goal is just okay.
So, let me just tantalize you with something insane,
dare I say the best gravel ride in SoCal.
Dana Point to Big Bear...
- about 50% gravel
- 50% of the pavement is bike trail
- leaving from the sand, summiting before sunset
... qualifies as epic.
Kinda far,
120 miles.
Kinda climby,
14,409'.
Kinda memorable,
nothing like gittin' 'er done with friends.
This will be our 5th year/6th running (2 attempts in '21).
The basic layout is...
- dinner at my place Friday night
- 5am official start on Saturday
- dinner in Big Bear
... leaving just before sunrise, finishing before sunset.
Click on it to see videos and pics.
I'll be posting more.
Put it on thy calendar: 10.10.26
Check my stats... we weren't killin' ourselves, click to go to ride.
===
166/12.7%
8ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: push ups, pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: ATG squats and split squats
83/80/3 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHAT IS STRONG?
WE HEAR IT said of others. We make the comment ourselves, too. It seams so natural until we think about it, that it's...
... being said of endurance athletes.
_____ is riding/running/swimming strong!
Huh?
We're mainly scrawny.
So what does Strong mean then...
- big fitness?
- big muscles?
... things I think about while zonetwoing out.
If it's just a muscle thing, does it mean because they are actually stronger...
... it's just easier for them to generate X than it is for the rest of us?
If it's a VO2 Max thing, does it mean they aren't any stronger...
... it's just not as taxing for them at X effort as it is for the rest of us?
Truthfully, this conversation with myself when I was doing...
- all out 10 second sprints
- atg weighted squats
- box jumps
... throughout the week.
===
166/12.7%
89ish hours sleep
750 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
84/86/-2 per Strava
>
DAMNED IF...
SOME WORKOUTS are better than others. There are those when we just don't wanna do. And those when we're really feeling it...
... that c'mon LFG feeling.
What to do?
Or not.
Like today.
We'd already hit it pretty hard...
- bursts up in the 600W range
- plenty in the 400s
- rest in 300s
... not sure that qualifies as overunders.
At the end of that hellish 35 minutes,
we head directly to a segment called Pain Cave.
I didn't want to do it,
already feelin' smoked.
Told BBB I was just gonna cruise it.
But, you know how that can go.
I looked down and I was doing 380 watts up the final push and you were disappearing.
Since he said that, I thought maybe it wasn't a bad effort.
Numbers don't lie.
24 min today vs 20 min in January (a PR).
What's the benefit of doing it then?
I'll tell ya...
... to get fired up for next week.
LFG!
===
165/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
610 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
yes Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
85/89/-5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WOULD YOU RATHER...
THE ENDURANCE WORLD is vast and exciting. So many ways to test our mettle, against others and, more importantly...
... against ourselves.
We must choose one.
Focus.
Go for our own greatness.
So, which would it be...
- Tour de France Champion
- Ironman sub-8 hours at Kona
- Boston Marathon sub-2:05
... that would be personally most satisfying?
Or for you...
- Downhill World Champion
- Unbound Champion
- Leadville 100 sub-6 hours
... dirty racers.
Doesn't have to be any of those, but whatever it is...
... why aren't we 100% committed to making it happen?
This trip ain't gonna last forevah.
===
165.4/12.7%
7.ish hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 40 ATG squats and split squats
83/81/2 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
WHY CONSISTENCY COUNTS
IT ALL ADDS UP. Every effort we make contributes to our pot of fitness, and while the ones half-@$$ don't deplete...
... they just don't get us where we want to be.
As quick.
Which is nothing compared to skipping.
Or quitting.
We're reminded of that every day when we're out and about seeing people of our generation.
It's like looking in the mirror and seeing what could have been...
... kind of a George Bailey thing.
This is why we say Every Day Is RaceDay.
===
164.4/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 40 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 40 ATG squats and split squats
85/93/-8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
19 TAKEAWAYS FROM LBL
THERE WAS A BIG SHOWDOWN at Liege-Bastogne-Liege, the reigning unbeatable king vs the French teenage sensation vs the previous two-time winner...
... and I have some thoughts on that.
Not just that they swept the podium.
Firstoff, there was/is/will be a lot of chatter about...
... a 19 year old coming for the king of July, this July.
Some say too, young...
... should be holding him back.
To which I can only point to two other 19 year olds,
who didn't wait for their time,
their turn.
The very terrifying Mike Tyson,
knocking out everyone who dared.
Cooper Flagg who the critics claimed to be overrated,
before becoming the first teen to score 50 points in the NBA.
Paul Seixas has something more in common with the Tyson and Flagg,
the same quality Pogacar had when he came outta nowhere...
- which I find lacking in Remco, and so many others
... at 19, they were/are all having a lot of fun,
in love with the sport.
Simple.
Pure.
There's something beautiful and endearing to their approach,
we might lean into a little more.
===
164.4/12.6%
7ish hours sleep
650 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
84/84/-1 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
JUST HOW MANY CODES CAN WE CRACK?
THE ENDURANCE ATHLET'S JOURNEY is endlessly fascinating, as continually learn more about what we are capable of. Add to that, the constant flow of new information...
... we are constantly cracking new codes.
That's funstuff!
I tried a new one today.
After years, and I mean decades when I say years, of my tried and true formula....
- 1 bottle per hour
- 3-400 calories per bottle
- under extreme training or racing
... I tried something new.
Yesterday, I was exposed to an old thought via the TrainerRoad podcast...
- drink water, when thirsty
- ingest carbs via gels or food
- increase carbs towards end of the effort
... which seemed very new, to me.
My main impetus for trying it out today was that a week ago at Sea Otter I started to feel very bloated...
... almost nauseous the last 90 minutes.
It was a real struggle,
and it sucked.
So, today I put it to the test on a ripping 4.5 hour ride...
- drank only 2 bottles
- got a little hungry last hour - didn't bring enough
- put out better numbers than I have all year, including racing
... I felt lighter, dare I say spry?
Def worth more testing.
===
165.2/12.6%
7.5ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 60 ATG squats and split squats
86/97/-12 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
A WEIRD AND INCREDIBLE OFFSHOOT OF LEG DAY
MAKING LEG DAY a regular thing is something some of us do in the "offseason" and few of us do year round because...
... that's just the way it's done.
What if it's wrong?
Since I've been extra committed to hitting the legs 2-3 times a week...
- with weights
- without weights
- super snappy, max sprints
... I've noticed something marvelous.
It's becoming harder and harder to back it down,
and do the spinny Z1 stuff.
Plus...
... threshold efforts are feeling easier and easier.
Why would that be?
I might just be getting stronger, but I think it's more like...
... it just feels so good to feel the burn.
===
163.4/12.6%
8ish hours sleep
670 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: 60 ATG squats and split squats
81/72/9 per Strava (feeling mostly recovered from Sea Otter)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
ONE THING NOT TO EASE UP ON WHEN TAPERING
THE GOOD NEWS ABOUT CONFLICTING INFORMATION is that it means most competitors are conflicted about any number of approaches to maximum fitness. Whether that be training...
... or on raceday.
Tapering matters.
We know we should rest.
Just what does that mean?
Here's what works for me, and why.
I cut back the volume, but...
... I never cut off the intensity.
Cutting back the volume lets my body recover and repair,
the fatigue melts away.
Putting out short bursts of race pace in the final 7-10 days...
- 10-30 second efforts
- at 80-100% of max
- then super easy
... keeps my muscles, tendons and brain primed for action.
You might find that conflicting,
test it and figure it out,
for you.
===
164.6/12.7%
7.5ish hours sleep
690 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 60 push ups, 15 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 60 ATG squats and split squats
82/74/8 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE TOOL KIT
HEADING OUT INTO THE GREAT OUTDOORS we often carry tools of some sort. Usually, the basics. Sometimes more. Depends on...
... how crazy things could get.
Risks we are taking.
But, why do we do that?
We aren't planning to have a breakdown.
Yet, we know shift happens.
It's happened before,
gonna happen again.
The point isn't that we are expecting failure,
we are planning for success.
No matter what comes our way...
... we'll git 'er done.
===
163.8
7.5ish hours sleep
700 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 ATG squats and split squats
83/77/5 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
DOES THIS MAKE MY BUTT LOOK BIG?
ADDING ANY NEW EXERCISE or movement often reacquaints us with muscles we didn't know we had, mainly because we've neglected to...
... engage them in meaningful ways.
We're sore.
My latest has been a pain in my arse.
Literally.
After my PT said I need to thoroughly stretch my legs with ATG (ass to grass) squats...
... I got started.
'cause I'm obedient as heck when it comes to my body's performance.
I used to do 'em.
In fact, back then...
- they don't bend over
- they lower down with legs
- to a full squat and make it look easy and natural
... I remembered seeing the little kids pick stuff up.
Anyway,
I'm back at it.
Started doing...
- a few ATG air squats
- to sets of 20 after 20 pushups
- to doing them with a 35 lb kettle bell
... and guess where I feel it most?
Los glutes.
Guess what is one of our biggest muscles,
and if engaged with a proper bike fit,
can develop all kindsa power?
Los glutes.
It's bringing me back to high school when the girl I was crushing on came up from behind in the hallway outside English class and pinched my butt...
... whispering Nice @$$.
Ah, the glory days!
Maybe I'll get it back, lol...
... at least a touch of the onthebike power?
===
165.6
9ish hours sleep
640 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 40 push ups, 10 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 40 ATG squats and split squats
82/71/10 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
THE PROJECT AND THE SYSTEM
THE IDEA THAT WE CAN HAVE a system to help us achieve a goal is a mighty fine way to approach any objective. Then, it's just a matter of...
... figuring out the inputs.
After we define the project.
It's looking like this summer is going to be...
- executing our biz plan
- planning a giant family reunion
- and being around for our latest grandchild's arrival
... while hacking Project Leadville.
Without training like a maniac.
By putting a system place,
I can take reasonable action each day...
... knowing I'll arrive according to plan.
Since my bike is already set...
- continue to build strength with sprints and weights
- get back to 2022's svelteness
- fix the everplaguing bike fit
... it's a matter of getting my body ready.
That should allow me to achieve Project Leadville:
- have fun and great energy daily
- put down a sub-9 time at Leadville this year
- stay on track for my very long-term goal of sub-9 at 70
... while keeping the main things - family and business - the main things.
There is a caveat to this kind of systems based action...
- Podiums are nearly impossible to predict
- PRs much easier manage and way more fun to chase after
... it works better for achieving PRs than podiums.
(I'm starting to wonder if I'll every write a complete sentence or an actual paragraph ever again. What is happening to my grammar?)
===
168 (gotta drop 10lbs)
9ish hours sleep
650 anti-oxidant level
√ Upper Body: 80 push ups, 20 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
√ Lower Body: 80 body weight squats and split squats
82/71/11 per Strava (there's no way this is accurate, I'm still wrecked from Sea Otter)
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
HUNGOVER AND LOVING IT
AFTER THE 'A' EVENT, nearly always comes some sort of hangover. Whether it's mission failure, mission meh...
... or mission accomplished.
Excess is inevitable.
For me that means doing whatever Surfergirl wants to do.
Rather than collapsing on the couch...
... like most Saturdays.
Instead, we drove the opposite direction of home...
- walked the length of the beautiful cove
- picked up insanely good pizza
- 16" not 9", cuz hungry
... to beautiful Carmel.
Followed by 3.5 hours of driving so we could wake when literallyworldfamous
Old West Cinnamon Rolls opened.
Then, 4 more hours on the road...
... cuz the lady likes to detour at the beach stops.
Arrive home,
unload.
Enjoy surprise visit and dinner with daughter and grandson...
... and, finally, collapse on the couch.
(normally, I love Monday morning... not sure about this one.)
===
167ish
6.5ish hours sleep
550 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: body weight squats and split squats
83/76/7 per Strava
https://www.strava.com/athletes/10248
>
SEA OTTER 2026: THE PLAN WAS...
THERE ARE FIGHTERS and there are wannabe fighters. We all identify with every type because at some point we've been there...
... battling our competitors and our minds.
Executing the plan,
get into Leadville.
But, as the great Mike Tyson sagely said...
... Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.
Which is what the start of every race always feels like.
Today, was no different.
5-4-3-2-1 and we're all redlined hitting the opening climb...
... aiming to enter the single track at the top leading, or right there.
Because after that, the next 5 miles are very difficult to pass.
Too narrow.
And, there's lots of passing to be done as we generally roll up on the group that started ahead pretty quickly.
During the first 5 miles...
- Me
- Dean
- and Greg
... our podium was pretty much set.
We traded pulls that first lap,
and entered the second and final lap on the same time.
Here is where I had to make a decision...
- Greg was distanced just a bit
- Dean seemed to be slightly struggling
- The Ol' Diesel was feeling pretty good
... race for the podium or for a good time?
They are different things.
I decided to just ride my pace.
A gap slowly opened,
then, a lot.
I couldn't see them.
Just settled in.
Stayed on top of my nutrition,
kept the pace at tempo or above...
... as much as I could.
20 minutes later,
Dean, that crafty sunnavagun,
was closing on a longish climb.
Race for the podium or stay on pace?
I stayed on pace,
the gap opened back up...
... and I kept my helmet on a swivel the rest of the way in.
Let me just pause for a moment and reflect on how good it felt to be out on my bike and riding well. It had been a rough last couple of days on several fronts, and this morning...
... I just wasn't feelin' it.
Surfergirl sensed it.
You okay?
I dunno.
You're gunna do great.
Not sure I care.
Some days are like that,
sometimes it's on raceday
sometimes it's on workday
sometimes on familyday.
We always have a choice...
... to buckle up and fight
or not.
I'm glad I did.
All went according to plan, except like a newb I neglected to look at the time I should be shooting for: sub 5:10.
5:11
FTW.
I'll gladly take that and the gold coin allowing me entry in Leadville.
===
165ish
7ish hours sleep
680 anti-oxidant level
no Upper Body: 20 push ups, 5 pull ups, gripper, heel and toe raises
no Lower Body: body weight squats and split squats
85/88/-3 per Strava
>
BROWN v LASAGNA
Nov 30, 2019
by TODD BROWN
THIS IS KINDA GROSS, but it's true.
After losing the battle at LeBigfamilyholidaydinner #1, aka Thanksgiving, I noticed a new way to measure my blubber.
Rather than hop on the scale, I just stare at my belly button. What was once a button hole is now more like a sink hole.
To think, a year ago I was the lightest I'd been in decades. I even set a PR up The Wall.
Now, I'm a tired slug.
I keep telling myself, Oh it's all the weights you've been liftin', all the pull ups and push ups.
But, then I see it.
Staring at me in the mirror.
Like a mini mouth... feed me, feed me, feed me, feed me.
Well, just like Carroll Shelby in Ford vs Ferrari, I'm heading back to LeBigfamilyholidaydinner in 4 weeks. And I'm brining a Ken Miles attitude with me... we're gonna start chucking parts overboard!
First up... politely let my stillvisiting mom know that candy all over the place has gotta go.
Second... Surfergirl is outta town for a week so that should curb my enthusiasm for lasagna at 9pm.
Third... more water, got off that somehow.
Fourth... wear more clothes on and off the bike. I have this unproven, psuedo-science theory that if I get cold my body wants to fatten up. And, it has been cold lately especially in our warehouse.
Fifth... remind myself, it's okay to be a little hungry for a few days because soon my tummy will shrink and that feeling will go away.
Sixth... go ride Swami's next Saturday and get dropped, which will get me ticked off, especially when Andy is singing while I'm seeing stars.
Seventh... is there a better gift to give myself this year than waking up on 1/1/20 knowing I won't have some stupid NY resolution like turning my sink hole into a button hole?
---
I guess this means I really gotta ride with purpose... probably a lot of zone 2, the sinkholefilling kinda pace.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gott-ride-t-shirt-avail-in-2-colors
_____
166.2 lbs
0 pull ups/0 push ups
6 hours sleep - I know, but that movie was so good last night
https://www.strava.com/activities/2902386654
Ride with us: click for info.
WORST SON EVER
Nov 29, 2019
by TODD BROWN
BE CAREFUL, IT'S WET OUT THERE! said the voice in my head.
It's hard to shed the mom's voice... at any age.
But, it wasn't in my head...
... her concerned pronouncement shrieked down from her room... in our home.
Shyte!... next thing I knew I was wondering if my jersey matched my bib and if I needed to get her permission to be home late after playing at the office all day.
... and worst thing is... she's going to read this between now and the time I get home from tomorrow's ride. She reads them all. She's my No. 1 fan for heck's sake.
I'm doomed.
Which only means I'm going to ride even crazier, and be home later.
Just kidding, because...
Our daughter also has a room at our AirBNB... which she will be vacating at approximately 2pm to drive back to school - 2 states away.
... ya know what I'm gonna say...
Be careful... blah, blah, blah.
---
Can't wait to load up my new Wild Child RaceDay bag... they're in production now.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
It's gonna go perfect with the kit... and I don't even need my mama to help me pick it out.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
_____
165 lbs
20 pull ups/60 push ups
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2900172782
Ride with us: click for info.
I AM COZY, I AM COZY BUT THE RIDER STILL REMAINS
Nov 28, 2019
by TODD BROWN
AS PREDICTED, A POWERFUL DRIZZLE TAPS THE WINDOWS, and a light breeze viciously whistles.
Cocooned in bed, I surf the interwebs... drooling over the Pivot Vault, and wondering if it would be the perfect tool for the Belgian Waffle Ride?
Who am I kidding?
If I ain't brave enough to weather this pitiful "storm" how could I ever attempt a ride like that, even on such a capable bike?
My daughter joins me with a book... Surfergirl brings us pancakes and hot cocoa.
It's like Kryptonite for The Old Diesel.
I sink even deeper.
Cozier.
I am warm and dry and weak...
... not worthy of the machine or event of which I dream...
... or am I?
Maybe.
Perhaps if I don our new KOM jacket, designed specifically for days such as this... it's wind and water repellent membrane would easily protect even one such as I.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black
It's taken all Fall to perfect the pattern. The stretchy membrane fabric is snug enough not to be a parachute, yet easily slips over layers of warm clothes.
It's brand new... just released.
Which means I guess I'll have to cave into the societal Black Friday pressures and make this offer...
The first 25 people to order a KOM jacket using this code will save 25%... the code is BLACKKOM
https://pedalindustries.com/products/pedal-industries-wind-jacket-black
Send us your art and we'll design one in your team colors... and if you're one of the first 25 to send your art I'll extend the offer to a custom KOM jacket
_____
164.2 lbs
heavy duty carving
7.25 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2897962344
Ride with us: click for info.
SOUTH BY ZWIFTWEST
Nov 27, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I KNOW IT'S BREAKING OUT HERE IN THE SOUTHWEST - as it does every year... but I'm wondering if it is in Zwiftlandia as well?
The early symptoms are presenting themselves on a frighteningly regular basis.
So much so that I instantly said No to my dear friend from Arizona who wanted to ride this morning. I didn't want to be anywhere near him. He had to be infected.
Alas, with a little pestering I broke my self-imposed quarantine.
It was risky.
Friends.
I hoped he wouldn't be showing the tale-tale signs of the malady.
The reason so many southwestern racers fall into the grasp of DHS is that it's detrimental effects don't show up for many months.
They flirt with DHS until it's too late and the season is lost.
Which brings me back to Zwiftlandia... is it happening there too? It must be, with all the almost real racing they do.
Are Zwifters finding themselves lured into December Hero Syndrome?
Are they riding like maniacs in November, becoming heroes in December only to be total zeroes...
When the racing is on?
In the summer?
Lordy, I hope not.
I love it when my competition is just killing it this time of year, because I'm deadly certain who will be killing it when it counts.
Fortunately, Markell is a wise young man who enjoyed a gentlemanly pace with The Old Diesel.
The season will be here soon enough... and we'll all be popping up our canopies and looking pro.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/10x10-canopy-1?variant=5307583201316
We probably have your team art, if you'd like us to mock up a canopy for you we'd love to do it. Just reply to this email... and remind us to give you the Pro Canopy Special pricing.
Here's the link:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/10x10-canopy-1?variant=5307583201316
_____
164 lbs
20/60
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2895293448
Ride with us: click for info.
FREE ADVICE
Nov 26, 2019
by TODD BROWN
YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR, but this is so much more.
Darren looked back at me... You okay?
I wasn't choking, but it was a nasty and juicy hack.
Wouldn't go away.
I'm okay... just got some a the bar down the wrong pipe... coughing all over 'im n 'is bike.
Which reminded me of earlier in the ride when notyounganymore Tim shared this rhythmic jewel... which thou shalt not forget, ever.
Above the neck,
Ride like heck!
In the chest,
Get some rest.
To what doth he refer?
To thy desire to ride when thou hast a cold.
I know you... you'll probably get a cold - 'cause cold and flu season ads remind you to do that every year, I don't watch TV so therefore I am immune mosta the time. Anyway, back to you.
First off, if you feel a hint of cold coming on go get some Zicam. Stuff works.
Second off, if you fell for the dumb ads and didn't get the Zicam immediately, well the cold is coming. And, like all good little addicts you're gonna be tempted to ride... scratch that you're gonna ride. And the cold will continue to run its course, probably getting worse. And then you'll really be tempted to keep riding.
So repeat after notyounganymore Tim.
Above the neck,
Ride like heck!
In the chest,
Get some rest.
Post it on your team's place for posting things. In bold!
And while you're posting things... remember we have gift cards...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gift-card
... for your too-nervous-to-pick-something loved ones wondering what to get your very-deserving-self for the holidays...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gift-card
... can't blame 'em, right?
I mean, how do they know the difference between another cheap and lame and boxy and poor fitting jersey vs an absolutely stunning kit designed by pros like us and made from imported Italian fabrics right here our beautiful country?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
Sometimes I feel sorry for the people that love me and give me gifts I don't deserve as much as they think I do... they want so badly to give me something I'm stoked about... and they know that's either got to be something cycling or surfing or a great book... but they have just no clue... so I get a gift card.
But, some years I have pity on them and just send a link like this...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
... with a picture like this...
... because I want them to be successful in life. And does anything say success more than giving a good gift and seeing our broadening smiles as we envision how great we are gonna look next year?
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
You might call this a rambling message, but I have executed a psychological Ginsu allowing you to cut to the chase multiple times. Something I learned somewhere I can't remember while dreaming of really standing out in a crowd...
... and letting the world know, I stand for peace.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
Do you?
_____
165.6 lbs (I know, too much)
0/0
6.5 hours sleep (I know, not enough)
https://www.strava.com/activities/2893097455 (but, this was beautiful)
Ride with us: click for info.
I NEED A HUG MR. BROWN
Nov 25, 2019
by TODD BROWN
MATT PARK. I met Matt on a cold, dark night. We were the last crazies doing the circuit ride over in Irvine. He was about 13 or 14.
I stayed out, concerned for his safety.
He stayed out, because he loved riding.
... I can't even write this...
My young friend is gone.
When Matt left for NYU, we stayed in touch. He kept riding, I kept loving his sweet and fearsome spirit... encouraging him, as any old fart would do, to make good choices.
On his visits back to CA - home is Korea - he always made time to do our Tuesday ride and we'd catch up on the way to my house where he'd grab water and keep riding.
One day he texted... Mr Brown, my team is doing RaceDay bags!
He was so excited.
He had joined Veselka and Ron Restivo and I were indeed working on designs.
... this is so hard...
A few months ago, Matt asked if he could intern here.
Of course!
What a joy. Always happy, and kind, and looking out for the customers and the company. He took care of shipping and customer service.
At some point, each afternoon he'd come over and say I need a hug Mr. Brown.
We talked about his family, love life, studies... his volunteer work at church.
He never missed a chance to remind me how old and worn out I was on and off the bike... and I loved it!
C'mon old man.
One day, I was all geeked up about Kanye's new album... Jesus Is King. Figured it would be good common ground for us. He laughed, and said it had been out forever... reminded me how out of touch I was. I had to check. It was released a month ago today - 10/25/19. Kids.
When Ron Restivo emailed this morning with the heart-breaking news I couldn't believe it.
Matt's little red Benz, wrapped around a tree.
I cried.
I'm still crying.
I put on Follow God: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivCY3Ec4iaU
I need a hug, Matt.
God, I need a hug.
-----
Readers... I'm sorry this isn't the usual make you go ride your bike post. I love our community so much. We all touch each other in ways we may never know.
If you're local... I plan to slow ride TMWC tomorrow.
XOXO, tb
A KNIGHT'S TALE
Nov 24, 2019
by TODD BROWN
WE KNOW EVERY RUNNER IS A BIKE RIDER IN THE MAKING, but not every business is a giant in the making.
These are the the thoughts that haunt and taunt Phil Knight, founder of NIKE, in his book Shoe Dog.
You run because the alternative, stopping, scares you to death.
- Phil Knight
The man who moves a mountain, begins by carrying small stones.
- Confucius
You are remembered for the rules you break.
- Douglas MacArthur
He was the first college coach in American to emphasize rest.
- referring to legendary coach, NIKE co-founder Bill Bowerman
Somebody may beat me, but they're going to have to bleed to do it.
- Steve Prefontaine
When we did fail, we had faith that we'd do it fast, learn from it, and be better for it.
- Phil Knight
Nine times out of ten, the difference from one shoe to another is the factory
- Jerry Hsieh
But, my favorite echos my thoughts on PRs vs KOMs and came from a young ad exec...
There is no finish line.... Beating the competition is relatively easy. Beating yourself is a never-ending commitment.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
HOW DO YOU KEEP CHARGING?
Nov 23, 2019
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF MY ADVISORS, DR DAVE, ASKED ME How do you keep charging?
Huh?
How do you keep charging on the bike, work, life?
... silence...
It's all I know Dave.
Ludi, my sister-in-law... When you retire, then you can stop racing.
Huh?
...
When you slow down.
It's who I am Sis.
A portly friendforlife shuffled over... Still riding that bike?
Yep.
I wish I was.
Start.
Such were the unexpected conversations today.
All I could think was...
Stay wild. Find peace.
Exactly what I advised the kids. And off the went.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
_____
163.6 lbs
0/0
8 hours sleep
Ride with us: click for info.
COLD FEET
Nov 22, 2019
by TODD BROWN
AT OUR CHILLY BOARD MEETING THIS MORNING we asked Trevor if he had cold feet.
Present: Me, my baby bros Matt n Brandon... and Trev, my oldest.
Occasion: Tomorrow Trev ties the knot.
Seems like we just yanked off the training wheels... I remember his skinned knees and unquenchable grin...
I can do it Dad, let go!
It ain't easy.
To let go.
I doubt I ever really will.
There is a link that can't be broken.
Biological, yes.
But, the experiences we've shared frame the way we approach life. Together and apart.
We've ridden boards, bikes and motos... done some racing, too...
My very favorite, the one that says who he is as a human, man, spouse?
I can do it Dad...
I reckon that's my toast tonight... to a wild and peaceful ride!
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
_____
164.2 lbs
8/24
6 hours sleep
Surf sesh
Ride with us: click for info.
THE MUSIC OF THE RIDE
Nov 21, 2019
by TODD BROWN
JUST BECAUSE I SHUN THE EARPODS WHILE RIDING don't mean my brain's not a rockin!
I rose to the Stray Cats Rumble In Brighton... no doubt I'd been dreaming of a fast-finishing crit.
Promptly pulled it up on AppleMusic, shot it through my baby Bose.
On repeat.
Got to the office and hung the Skull Candy Crusher with bass turned up.
... there ain't a damn thing that the cops can do...
On repeat!
It's a productivity hack. Put the same music on repeat and my brain quiets down and I grind out work. Lots of glorious work.
I'm chomping at the at the cleat to release it all at once.
Take the new kits, Wild Child and Peace. I can't decide which one I like better.
Knowing me, I'll mix and match.
Like this...
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
Which do you like better?
Or maybe not.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
Kits, for me, are part of the music of the ride - the driving bass, ripping guitar, bombing drums.
Ironic that Rumble In Brighton rushed me to release this kit today.
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/wild-child
_____
164.2 lbs
20/60
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2881428940 (commute in)
https://www.strava.com/activities/2881915289
Ride with us: click for info.
20/60
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2881428940 (commute in)
https://www.strava.com/activities/2881915289
Ride with us: click for info.
THESE ARE NOT THE DROIDS YOU'RE LOOKING FOR
Nov 20, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I DON'T KNOW WHERE DAMION GOT THE IDEA to put a bunch of Storm Troopers on road bikes.
But it's really funny.
And, that's why he'll never be sued by George Lucas or Disney or whoever Darth Vader answers to these days.
It's parody law.
But we didn't know jack about that when we had our first t-shirt hit: Strava Made Me Dope. So, when those nerds sent us a nasty letter we pooped our pants and nearly quit the business all together.
All we knew was we liked bike culture and that Damion could design and I could print.
It makes me wonder how many businesses have been started on a bike ride?
For sure, the vast majority have nothing to do with riding bikes other than the founders enjoy bike riding.
That's the cool part, right? Go for a ride, and you really get to know people. It just happens naturally.
I asked Damion if we could get a deal... 'cause why not?
So here's the deal... buy 2 shirts, get 3.
Use promo code DHDwear
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dhdwear
The code DHDwear actually saves you 33%, so you could use it on as many shirts as you want.
There are more designs here:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/dhdwear
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I DON'T ALWAYS GO TO THE GYM
Nov 19, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I DON'T ALWAYS GO TO THE GYM, but when I do I prefer the home gym.
My gym workout takes 20-30 minutes, depending on how much time I want to spend.
It's pretty simple, and pays dividends.
How do I know?... well, I don't.. except I was voted Mr. Universe just before waking up this morning.
Note: never take workout advice from cyclist, no matter how sincere.
Other than my daily pull ups and push ups, 2-3 times a week I use the equipment above + my pull up bar and my stairs.
I do curls and shoulder presses on the Bosu ball.
Squats and lunges with the kettle bell.
Bent row with the 52.5 lb dumbbell.
Burpees with the 15pounders... but not just any burpee, I do a row on each side then shoulder press when I stand.
Some leg opening and closing with the Pilates ring.
Throw in some core work.
Plus the stairs... I do a number of sets, jumping 3 at a time... to get to the pull up bar and start all over again.
I've tried going to the gym... and I always end up quitting. This, this I've been able to be consistent with... it's quick and convenient.
With all the scientific training I don't have, based on hearsay and whatnot, I can tell you this... it doesn't suck to feel stronger.
Strong like bull?
Yeah!
Strong enough to wear hi-viz pink socks that ship for free and are made right here in the United States of American by Americans who love what they do and are damn proud of their work when they go home at the end of the day?
That strong?
Heck yeah!
https://pedalindustries.com/products/hi-viz-sublimated-sock
_____
163.8 lbs
0/0
6.5 hours sleep (not enough)
https://www.strava.com/activities/2876557581
Ride with us: click for info.
0/0
6.5 hours sleep (not enough)
https://www.strava.com/activities/2876557581
Ride with us: click for info.
ATTACK OF THE BADGER
Nov 18, 2019
by TODD BROWN
BRETT HORTON TAUGHT ME TO SPRINT. He claimed he was a badass with San Jose Bicycle Club... and swore he was Specialized's first factory rider, on track bike serial number 1.
All true.
But, all I knew was I wanted to get a helluvalot faster.
And since he knew how to score with the ladies, he probably knew how to win on bikes.
Whether or not he taught me how to sprint I'll leave up to you... but this is indisputable:
Brett learned how to score cycling memorabilia, the very best, and built one of the world's largest collections.
His personal connections allow him to acquire the unobtainable.
For instance, Friday he's going to sit down with Bernard Hinault, the Badger... the freaking BADGER!...
... to sign 297 lithos (99 of 3 different images)...
... with personal inscriptions...
Want to impress the heck outta your cycling father-law? Blow away your big customer? Put the bow on your man cave?
Go here:
Don't delay... orders must be in by 6pm Thursday.
I talked to him this afternoon. He's in France, going to 6 day races before Friday's signing with Hinault... and he's pretty darn confident this will sell out.
I'll cover the US shipping on this... ping me if you are out of country.
_____
163.8 lbs
Gym Work
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2874053497
https://www.strava.com/activities/2874594122
Ride with us: click for info.
Gym Work
8 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2874053497
https://www.strava.com/activities/2874594122
Ride with us: click for info.
THE ANTIDOTE
Nov 17, 2019
by TODD BROWN
THE TITLE SAYS IT ALL, not if... but what the internet is doing to our brains.
The quote that impacted me most: "We shape our tools and thereafter they shape us."
Therein lies the potential beauty of our two-wheeled antidote.
I refuse to hook up my phone to my bike computer.
I do not listen to music or podcasts while riding.
My phone is on, so I may snap a quick pic. That's it. On, but on airplane mode.
I ride to escape, to free myself of the net.
To hear my heart and feel my thoughts.
To smell the sky and taste life's entire analog spectrum.
To see freedom.
The bike is my tool, my counter measure to distraction and sloth.
May my mind rest and my blood flow fast, forever
-----
When the seductive call of the net beckons... politely decline, Gotta Ride
https://pedalindustries.com/products/gotta-ride-t-shirt
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163.8 lbs
0 pull ups/0 push ups
6 hours sleep
ELBOW ETIQUETE
Nov 16, 2019
by TODD BROWN
THE MEATHEAD ELBOWED HIS WAY TO THE FRONT OF THE LINE.
He gloated to his companion... Did you see how I got us right up front? then loudspeaking I hope we make our train.
I patiently waited to place my order, standing on cleats to peer over his enormous ego.
Yes, I'll take a coffeecake muffin please.
I settled into "my" preferred chair in the back and elbowed the aforementioned negativity...
... preferring to review the thus far glorious morning which I'd spent riding with some of the county's best riders.
The pace had been steamy in a locomotive sorta way, and unlike 2 weeks ago I was able to hang on...
... the difference?
Heck, I dunno. Well, I do know I got a solid 8 hrs and lathered up with PR Lotion.
Elbows... yes, elbows!
Elbows were flying as our choo-choo of 30 railed through town.
The flick kind. You know. Where you do your turn, slide over and flick the elbow.
Early elbow flicking is gentlemanly thing, lady-like too. Kind of a Yoohoo, c'mon through, I could pull more but I know you want a workout too.
By the time we got back to the coast, things were serious. 5 rolling miles up the road was the sprint.
Late elbow flicking is generally humiliating... more of a Crap, I'm cooked, pleasepleaseplease come around for I fear I might die should you delay.
There was a lot late elbow flicking going on. Gasps turning to gaps. I love that kinda effort, right on the edge of blowing up...
... the final bite of my muffin was a good as the first. I reveled in my amazingly good fortune and with no rush to be home rode some more.
On third thought, I did wear this hat all week... does subliminal advertising get the credit?
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-fast-curved-bill?variant=10683321516068
_____
163.6 lbs
0 pull ups/0 push ups
8 hours sleep
TOP 6 REASONS NOT TO BE A BIKE COMMUTER
Nov 15, 2019
by TODD BROWN
YOU SHOULD NOT RIDE YOUR BIKE TO WORK, if...
1. You want to save money.
2. You want to get in shape.
3. You want to help the environment.
4. You will use it as an excuse to get a "gravel" bike.
5. You want to skip the insanity of traffic.
6. You want to increase your cognitive skills.
The only reason to bike to work is it's a helluva a lot more fun!
My buddy Seth has been bloggin' about getting rid of his car for about 45 days. Following his conversion reminded me of the other years I've been a bike commuter.
Today marked my return.
It was awesome.
Got there in 10 minutes - I live close... but apparently 50% of US lives within 5 miles of work, so there.
Peeled off my gear.
Wiped down my special purpose area with hand sanitizer - TMI? Followed by some de-ode.
Stepped into my jeans, tshirt and flip flops and got down to business.
At lunch, I took a lovely and dirty 1 hour route home.
Drove back, 'cause need the van for shipping.
All in a days work.
Should you be so inspired you can get the stylish and powerful Knog bell and lights throughout thee weekend at 25% savings using code COMINGTHRU.
Order here:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pedal-posse-proven
Be sure to use the code COMINGTHRU to save 25% through the weekend.
_____
163.6 lbs
20 pull ups/60 push ups
7 hours sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2866857961#kudos
https://www.strava.com/activities/2867233390#kudos
Ride with us: click for info.
https://www.strava.com/activities/2867233390#kudos
Ride with us: click for info.
Can't do this from a car
IF IT WERE EASY - Sponsored by Knog Bells
Nov 15, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I DUMPED A LOAD OF GEARS, STOMPED ON THE PEDALS, CHAIN SKIPPED, KNEE SMASHED INTO STEM. As the blood filled the deep impression just to the side of my kneecap, it occurred to me:
This is hard...
and I love it!
That's the difference between us and them.
If it's easy, we pass.
If anybody can do it, we skip it.
We're down for the hard stuff, the demanding stuff and the stuff that scares the crap out of us:
Shooting gaps while sprinting
Launching off drops into rut-lined trails
Committing to 200 mile races
Lining up with A's knowing a pistol whipping will ensue
These are the things we do...
We aren't into easy...
We're into growing, challenging, learning... we know that hard things make us better.
We're breaking through the barriers... and we're letting people know with these awesome bells from Knog.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-oi-bike-bell
Which you can order through the weekend at 25% savings using code COMINGTHRU.
_____
164.3
Rest Day
Ride with us: click for info.
HOT LAPS, COLD NIGHT.
Nov 13, 2019
by TODD BROWN
GOT A LATE START.
It was supposed to be a lunch ride.
Threw on the lights.
Rode into the night.
Not lonely.
Not cold.
Plenty of rabbits.
Couple of giant owls.
Camo socks were perfect... 'cause I was battling an of day demon.
If you're new to our socks, I don't want you to hesitate. Use promo code TRYSOCKS to save 20%. You regulars, you already know... so you use the code just for being awesome.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/camo-sock-sublimated
TRYSOCKS code will expire in 48 hours and is limited to the first 50 orders... yes, of course you can share this code and yes it works on all our socks.
_____
166.4 lbs
Gym Work
7.5 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2863478310
Ride with us: click for info.
WHY DID THE CHICKEN BREAKAWAY? - sponsored by Knog
Nov 12, 2019
by TODD BROWN
WE HIT THE BOTTOM OF THE WALL 40 RIDERS STRONG.
I was 10 guys back.
Then 5.
With 100 meters to go, at the steepest point, I was 2nd wheel ...
Hot damn! I must be riding really good today.
At the apex I peeked back, expecting to see the usual handful.
Instead, I saw all 40 glued to my wheel.
Through misty breath gasps it was easy to note they weren't even working.
Then it hit me.
Earlier in the ride, they'd been a little frisky at the regroup... leaving the stragglers behind (I'd know).
Being the mother hen, I took it upon myself to make very, very clear that's not the way we ride this time of year.
Yes, while I was "proudly" summitting... they timidly followed their elder.
How could I be so mean?
I feel just awful.
The only way I can make it up to 'em is by offering this amazing light for a smoking deal...
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light
I won't remind them how I feel about their many weak and worthless taillights...
I've caused enough trauma for the day...
Who the heck lets The Old Diesel beat 'em on the climb? Poor little chickies.
Use code BADDIESEL to save 25% if you want to take advantage of me in an emotionally vulnerable moment.
It's good on all the KNOG products for the rest of the week - Note, these ship FREE about a week after order is placed.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/knog-cobber-wrap-around-bike-light
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166.2 lbs
0 pull ups/0 push ups
7 hrs sleep
https://www.strava.com/activities/2860061705
Ride with us: click for info.
THE INVISIBLE CITY
Nov 11, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I RECKON FEW OF MY NEIGHBORS KNOW THE CITY LIKE I DO, and why would they?
Belted in, they zoom from place to place.
But not me... and not you.
We wander.
Last week I found a beautiful memorial.
Placed forlornly at the dead end of a long, hard to find street, the irony was heavy.
I stopped for a personal moment of silence.
WHY WE SLEEP
Nov 10, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I JUST FINISHED READING WHY WE SLEEP. Mike said I'd be an evangelist for the book's message, and boy was he right.
Check out what happens when we get less than 8 hours of sleep:
Time to physical exhaustion drops by 10-30%
Aerobic output is significantly reduced
Faster rates of lactic acid build up
Reductions in blood oxygen saturation
Impairment of the body to cool itself through sweating
Weight gain through loss of hunger control
100% increase in risk of injury
... and that's just the athletic stuff, there's a whole bunch more... but, who cares about a complete and well rounded life?
Personally, I think the main thing I need to do is start my shut down sequence earlier... you know, the binge watching stretching session.
I say that because I'm a morning person (that's a real thing) and it's hard for me to sleep in.
I'm gonna get up.
To ride or get to workin'
I need every edge I can get, and sleep is free!
I'd like to write a log more, but I gotta hit the hay.
Quick word... if you're jet lagged or over 50ish, melatonin is a great at kicking our brains into gotosleep mode.
My goto product is RĒKÜVR NITE TIME™. You can get it here:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/rekuvr-nite-time%E2%84%A2
Nite-nite.
Oooops... almost forgot, use this code Nov 11 & 12 to save 20% -> REKUVER20
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166.2 lbs
0 pull ups/0 push ups
8 hrs sleep
2 mile walk on beach
Ride with us: click for info.
I DO NOT THINK YOU KNOW THE MEANING OF THAT WORD
Nov 09, 2019
by TODD BROWN
IT'S INCONCEIVABLE. How is it possible that I'm setting PRs as I age?
Not the climbing kind.
Or, TT kind.
The ripping the lugs off your sidewalls kind shredding a long descent...
... I wasn't really going for it because my riding buddy (gotta protect the innocent here) was off the back.
I just felt really good and very planted.
So, here's what I think is happening.
1. I have a very, very fast bike. Scott Spark. Roval wheels with ceramic bearings. Maxxis 2.2 Ikon up front, Maxxis 2.35 Aspen on the rear. 25lbs in each.
2. I'm strong. For the past year I've been very dedicated to my weight training and core work and stretching. Generally, I hate doing it but always feel awesome when it's over.
3. This is gonna sound weird, but it's true... I can see better. When I first came back to my MTB roots my eyes would scramble over rough terrain. Like they were loose, rattling around. Everything would go fuzzy at speed. But, by riding a lot of MTB they have steadily gotten stronger to the point that my vision is stabilized. Weird, right?
Now, if you're really hauling @$$ like I am, you've got to have a great connection to your bike. Which is why I've worked so hard on these gloves.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves
The leather palms are super thin and perforated. The top is perforated polyester... you can see your skin. They are super light.
I may be sweating like craycray, but I neverever slip and my hands are always cool.
They come in lots of colors, and yes we'll make 'em to match your team gear.
Check 'em out.
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/gloves
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165 lbs
0 pull ups/0 push ups
6 hrs sleep - not enough
4 hour epic MTB
Ride with us: click for info.
NO LUNCH FOR YOU!
Nov 08, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I'D FINALLY DID IT. Committed that from today forward, every Friday would feature a lunch ride. Not a beat down, but an upbeat friendly sorta thing.
I geared up.
Took a meandering dirt and street route over to Kawamata Sea Food.
The weather couldn't have been better.
Just me for the first go. Mainly to prove to myself I could and would quit working for a bit at Noon vs my usual 2pm.
I was quite proud, thinking this is great. It's mid-day and I'm out riding. This route is cool. The posse is gonna dig it. And oh man I can't wait for a delicious poke bowl.
About half the seats outside were open.
Leaned HVY MTL (my gravel bike) by a table for two and jettisoned helmet, glasses and gloves.
Walked in, ordered... and the horror... Cash only, bro.
I'd forgotten my RaceDay wallet.
-> insert sad trumpets here <-
Dejected. I did the walk of shame to my bike.
Not all is lost. I proved to myself I can make the schedule work, and really that's all I needed for a win.
At least I didn't forget my commitment.
Probably because I was wearing this ridiculously soft, 100% t-shirt.
It's an athletic cut, not a boxy thang. You're an athlete, right?
There's a bunch more I could tell ya... but just get it. You'll freakin' lub it.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-t-shirt
_____
164.6 lbs
Gym Work
6.5 hrs sleep - not enough
60 min ride
Ride with us: click for info.
DUDEDUMBNESS
Nov 07, 2019
by TODD BROWN
IF YOU'VE RIDDEN WITH ME LATELY, then you may have noticed I'm always maneuvering to be on your right side.
The only thing I fear about riding in the gutter is nothing... I'm perfectly comfy pegged to the curb.
But, my reason for doing is sheer Dudedumbness...
.. . that thing when you're a dude and you're hurting and you don't go to the doctor until it's unbearable. In my particular case, I couldn't hear shyte outta my right ear.
Mr Todd, what brings you in?
Huh?
WHY. ARE. YOU. HERE?
'CAUSE. I. CAN'T. HEAR. SHYTE. OUTTA. MY. RIGHT. EAR.
My doc is savvy. He's seen my type. Moved to my left side.
Why are you here?
I'm tired of fighting to ride in the gutter, Doc.
Hmmmm... well, there's a lot of that going around.
Really?
20 minutes later, I'm good as new. Ready to ride, either side.
Am I cured of Dudedumbness?
You'd think so.
Then again, if you're a gutter surfer like me with cat like reflexes and all... you actually start to believe in that whole nine lives thing, which leads to puttin' the doc off for one more day, which leads to not hearing shyte.
Which reminds me... did you hear about our BUY ONE GET ONE FREE deal on my most favoritist tires, Continental GP5000s?
Use this code CONTIBOGO to get 50% savings when you buy 2 Conti GP5000 tires w/Conti tubes (It actually works on 2 or more, but you didn't hear that from moi).
There's a catch... our group order goes in Friday 11/8/19, end of day. Then, it will ship to the Interplanetary HQ where we will repack and ship to you on Thursday.
Here's the link:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pedal-posse-proven
_____
163.6 lbs
0 pull ups/0 pushups
7 hrs sleep w/cat nap
Ride with us: click for info.
DIGITAL VS ANALOG - sponsored by Conti
Nov 06, 2019
by TODD BROWN
MY LIFE ACCORDING TO STRAVA vs MY LIFE ACCORDING TO ME
28 days active -> 31 days of living life
666mi -> a devilish number for a saint like me
53h 4m-> hours of inexpressible joy, mingled with pain
48,786ft -> every summit followed by a ripping descent
2658 kudos received -> nothing compared to a call from a loved one
New PRs 103 -> I can't remember one that mattered
It sure is swell of ol' Strava to take out the abacus and do all these calculations because it puts it all in perspective...
I'm a helluva lucky guy.
But, the luck doesn't stop here...
Check this out -> Conti was so impressed with the PEDALposse's Strava numbers they gave us a BUY ONE GET ONE deal on my most favoritist tires.
Use this code CONTIBOGO to get 50% savings when you buy 2 tires w/tubes (It actually works on 2 or more, but you didn't hear that from moi).
There's a catch... our group order goes in Friday 11/8/19, end of day. Then, it will ship to the Interplanetary HQ where we will repack and ship to you on Thursday.
Here's the link:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/pedal-posse-proven
_____
165.4 lbs
Gym Work
7 hrs sleep
Ride with us: click for info.
I'M SO WOKE
Nov 05, 2019
by TODD BROWN
GETTING ALL GEEKED UP FOR THE MORNING SOCIAL RIDE, er ripyourlegsoff ride, I was sure to set my alarm clock.
Darn sure.
Set 3 of 'em.
Just to be sure.
'Cause gotta be rolling by 5:43AM.
So... when I rolled over and cracked my eyes to a brightening sky there was a brief What the?!
Popped up, blacked out.
Dang!
Dang!
Dang!
Hopping around... PJs flying... bibs on backwards... then frontwards... socks on... vest, beanie...
Grab the pre-made bottles, load the pocket with waffles.
Pump tires.
Lights, computer already on bike.
The only reason I made it 0 seconds to spare is because I laid everything out the night before.
Know thyself, bro!
So, here's the cuckoo offer (because I'm pulling for YOU to be strong!): buy 2 of these shirts, give one to your chubby checker, and commit to eat less and ride more the next 2 months. Use promo code EATLESSRIDEMORE for 50% savings.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/eat-less-ride-more-t-shirt
_____
166.2 lbs (i think i'll wear that t everyday this month)
20 pull ups/60 pushups
7 hrs sleep
3.25
Ride with us: click for info.
NEVER PAY FOR YOU CYCLING GEAR AGAIN
Nov 04, 2019
by TODD BROWN
WHEN JEFF WAS A SUPER-COOL SENIOR 3 and I was a super-lame Senior 4 (these were the olden days before Categories and 5s), I could only look on in shy, humiliating admiration.
When he saw my calf he shook his head and said...
Clean off that Senior 4.
Huh?
That grease tattoo down there.
That's Jeff. Always teaching.
These days, between racing and adventures, he dominates the wire bending scene in Park City.
He uses his stories of racing The Crusher and riding the cobbles of Belgium to inspire his tribe to get quickly across the finish line with a beautiful smile.
With the biz justifiably picking up the tab.
-> Never, ever take advice financial from a cyclist <-
You can do the same thing and here's a great place to start:
https://pedalindustries.com/pages/start-a-project
Our minimum order is 1 item. One. Uno. As in a single product.
Don't own a biz?... run it past your marketing department, they're always looking for ways to promote. Or, maybe start a side hustle.
As long as we're talking about your wallet, here's a nifty favorite of mine. Made from inner tube, it's svelte and secure and stays put in your jersey pocket.
This one will remind you to ride your bike, and be a great conversation piece to tell your businesses story.
https://pedalindustries.com/products/ride-your-bike-raceday-tm-wallet
_____
166 lbs
gym work
8 hrs sleep
1 hr ride
Ride with us: click for info.
MIDDLE AGE MAN RECRUITED TO RIDE FOR BORAH
Nov 03, 2019
by TODD BROWN
PETER SAGAN HAS A NEW TEAMMATE, it's California legend T.O.D.
When asked by GCN why he had to have the aging racer on the team Peto was quick to respond...
Why not? He's fast for his age. He's claimed numerous KOMs in his weight class. And, he's a hell of a lot of fun to be around.
Pressed on why those were winning qualities team owner Ralph Denk was very frank...
Look, we don't count on him winning anything but we just like him. He works hard, sweats a lot, and eats pretty good most of the time. We think he'll be a huge inspiration to the younger guys on the team.
GCN cornered The Old Diesel. just after he was the last guy to come off the winning break of the local group ride. They probed how he felt about taking a spot away on the team from someone who might actually help the champion win a race.
I know, it's sounds crazy. But, I've been a huge fan of Sagan's since lining up to race him at Over The Hump. When he lapped me that day I knew being teammates was our destiny. Of course my wife will miss me, but she has a good TV and she'll be able to see me doing my thing. My kids are excited to, after years of living like a pro I'll finally be one. My neighbors are already asking for my autograph. And my mom, bless her heart, cried. I can't wait for the first training camp, to hang out with the guys and...
Dad... Dad... DAD! Are you listening to me?
What, huh, yeah, of course honey...
Reading The Secret Life of Walter MIddy today reminded me of the life saving balm a good day dream can be. Times when we drift off and dream of what it would feel like to be pro. To ride all day, climbing the highest mountains, professional chefs looking out for us... ah, the life of a professional bike racer. What it would it be like?
Maybe you dream of wearing the stars and stripes, of being a national champion, of representing the USA. If that's you, our Patriot Speed Jersey could be just what you're looking for.
We make them to order, right here in 'Merica.
Check it out:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/made-in-usa-speed-jersey-ships-in-about-3-weeks
Yes, the actual short story is better than mine... a lot better.
_____
165.2 lbs
0 pullups/0 pushups
8 hrs sleep
3 mile walk on sand
Ride with us: click for info.
AIN'T NO RIDING WHE-EN SHE'S GONE
Nov 02, 2019
by TODD BROWN
SURFERGIRL SPLIT FOR HIGHER PASTURES YESTERDEE. I looked at her long-faced, swore I didn't know what I'd do with myself...
... then started planning today's ride...
'cause ain't no riding like the riding when she's gone.
Typical Friday, messages and posts... What 'er ya doin'? Did you hear about X ride? etc
I wanted to say yes to all of 'em, being all pent up with my self-imposed, weakly regulated offthebike rest week.
I committed to meetin' the fellas by the harbor and heading up the coast to connect with the newly resurrected Food Park group ride. Shamed PViddy into joining us - I'm not in shape - I know, that's why you should come - I'm gonna get dropped - I know, it'll be fun.
Our little posse met up with the group.
Lotsa good feelings, guys come from all parts to do the ride and we hadn't seen each other since it's summer demise - another topic.
Cheyne, how far you going?
Gonna do a hundy.
So, of course I thought I'd do the same.
We peeled off from the group. Then went our separate ways.
I stopped for an apple danish at Hidden House, ran into Dylan and Mike and Alessandro.
65 miles in, 35 to go. What's a bachelor to do?
Then tragedy struck at mile 90.
Ugh.
Sliced sidewall.
I popped off my Mini-RaceDay bag, ready for a quick fix.
Oooops!
No nozzle for my cartridge... I then remembered I'd loaned it to a buddy on a ride and forgotten to repo it. Rats!
Luckily, I have a million friends - fact - who ride.
Called one... I moved.
Called two... no answer.
Called three... I'm out, but wife is home.
Phew.
Two blocks in my socks.
Got 'er fixed, and shot straight for the local, quirky bakery for an unpronouncable sandwich.
Lesson of the day: be sure the vastly superior Mini RaceDay bag is loaded.
Click the image for details - I dare you... not really, but it's cool. Check it out .
https://pedalindustries.com/products/the-mini-raceday-bag
_____
165 lbs
0 pullups/0 pushups
6.5 hrs sleep
6 hour ride.
Ride with us: click for info.
I LOVE VIRGINS
Nov 01, 2019
by TODD BROWN
MY STOMACH HURT, 'couldn't stop laughing.
It all started with Uncle Todd, I signed up for a triathlon.
When?
Sunday.
Well, awesome... let's get you hooked up.
It's hard to remember how incredibly foreign a bike can be. We all rode bikes as kids... but, you pick up a pro-level bike for the first time and it might as well be a NASA spec'd interplanetary rover.
This is a very smart, hard working young man.
Clueless.
Have you ridden it?
Yeah, Uncle Todd. I have a lot more respect for road bikers. (just wait, kiddo)
K, how about the gears... do you understand how to shift?
Not really.
So we throw it in the bike stand and play around with the shifting.
Small in back, hard. Small in front, easy.
He nods. I have complete faith by the end of 25 miles he'll have it dialed, but oh man... those first 10 are gonna be rough.
Let's get you in a kit.
The nut crunchers?
You'll be fine... now Wyatt, this is my prized speed suit. We sell these for over $200.
Oh, okay I don't need that.
Yes you do... I'm telling you that so you have confidence that this is the very best money can buy... now go put it on.
Ok.
No undies, go commando.
He changes... comes out... now, in all fairness he is an outstanding surfer and wetsuits have the zipper in the back... he comes out with... you guessed it... THE ZIPPER IN BACK! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA.
I'm dying.
He starts laughing, can't help it.
What?!
Hahahaha.....hahahaha...
Bro.... hahaha.... it's .... on..... BACKWARDS!!!!
Back in the bathroom, and out.
You look great. How's it feel.
Amazing. When do I put it on?
First thing, under your wetsuit. Then on the bike...
... do I run in it?
Absolutely?
For real?
Yes, my buddy Joby just PR'd Kona in that exact speed suit.
He smiles.
Me too... can't wait to go watch him Sunday.
I wore that very suit to a number of surprising road victories this year. If you want to check it out here's the link:
https://pedalindustries.com/products/splatter-speed-suit-master-yellow
_____
165.4 lbs
20 pullups/60 pushups
7.5 hrs sleep
1.25 hour ride.
Ride with us: click for info.
SOUL RIDING AND BAD GIRLFRIENDS
Oct 31, 2019
by TODD BROWN
NOTHING IS WORSE THAN A BAD GIRLFRIEND (ladies just insert boyfriend for ease - not that your easy, that I'm too lazy to switch back and forth and I know your too hip to care).
I would surf every day if surfing wasn't such a lousy lover. I never know what I'm gonna get. Is it going to be pumping? flat? empty? crowded? ? ? ? ?
Which reminds me how silly I think surf contests are, surfing is art, and my favorite surfers are soul surfers... surfing for love and spirit.
Most mountain bikers around here are surfers.
You know why now, right?
Because surfing is so dawgawn fickle. Ugh!
But the bike... the bike... she so lovely.
She a great lover.
Always ready to go, to rip or flow.
She don't care, she just wants to go.
And these surfing mountain bikers aren't into the competition thingy.
They are soul riders.
No hurry to climb.
No computer to obey.
Getting high, while riding high.
Chasing it with adrenalin, while chasing each other down.
That's soul riding.
No agenda.
Time to ditch the Garmin, bro.
My go to soul riding snack:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-posse-proven/products/honey-stinger-variety-pack
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166
20 pullups/60 pushups
7.5 hrs sleep
1.25 hour ride.
Ride with us: click for info.
THE BIKE BENEATH MY LEGS
Oct 30, 2019
by Buddha Apps Collaborator
FOUR DAYS IN TO MY SELF-IMPOSED BIKE FAST, and things are miserable.
My legs ache.
My energy is terrible.
My whole system is off.
Withdrawals!, some might say.
Well, I agree.
I don't know how folks who neglect their health do it.
How do they keep going day after day, all work and no play?
I'm already tipping the scales higher than I've been in a year.
... and I'm wondering, what is the point of the (no) exercise?
I need to get out and feel the sun on my face, hear the wind, feel some tension in my musckulls (Pop-eye!)
All I wanna do is ride my bike fast!
Which brings me to my favorite Bruce Lee quote:
Research your own experience, absorb what is useful, discard what is useless, and add what is specifically your own.
I'm pretty sure I'll be breaking the fast in the morning. My legs have felt like $#*^ since the Filthy 50 on Saturday. I don't remember a recovery ever taking this long and I think it has to do with the lethargy. This body of mine needs to stay in motion.
Lesson learned.
Want to know what else I've learned along the way?, check this out:
https://pedalindustries.com/collections/pedal-posse-proven
_____
166
0 pullups/0 pushups
7 hrs sleep
0 hour ride.
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WELL, I HAVEN'T MADE THAT MISTAKE YET
Oct 29, 2019
by TODD BROWN
YOU KNOW I TRY AND SHARE EVERY MISTAKE I MAKE OR ALMOST MAKE in the hopes my friends can avoid them. But, this one is a new one... and, well, I guess I'm glad it happened.
Todd, you're not going to believe this.
When I hear this I always take stock of the teller... sometimes I think Oh, I'm going to believe this and others the opposite.
In this case, when a cat goes by the handle of "Crazy" on the Stravas... well, I'm probably going to believe it and love it.
Especially, double-especially, when it happens after the awesome and feared TMWC!... 'cause, honestly, who can get anything useful done after that social ride?!
Anyway, what you really want to avoid is this...
Someone stoke my kit.
What?
Yeah, I always hustle into work after the ride and leave my kit to dry on the back of the car.
Hmmm... I mean that's totally normal, right?... so it's not the mistake you and I should avoid.
And someone stole it?
Yep.
That's terrible! (which it actually is, good kits ain't cheap)
So Crazy comes on down to hang out at PEDALindustries HQ and pick up some new gear. We spend a good bit rehashing the ride I missed, the upcoming weekend rides, and other riveting news only we can lose ourselves in.
Another mistake I've learned to avoid is that of shoeing people I enjoy out of my life because I've got to grind - we all need to hangout and connect more.
Crazy heads on home, saving a bundle by picking up brand new closeout gear.
Here's the mistake you don't want to make, but probably are going to make or already have made.
Found my TMWC kit.
Where?
At home. I raced back home to get a student a belt and forgot I had dropped them off. Tuesdays my brain is just useless after 8am!
haha... SO. IS. MINE!
Remember kids, we're stupider than we think we are after a beat down/social ride... and no matter what, how things go down in our memory are almost a lock to be different than what actually happens.
Just in case it happens to you, https://pedalindustries.com/pages/close-outs
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166.4 lbs (heaviest in a year, yikes!)
0 pullups/0 pushups
7 hrs sleep
0 hour ride.
Ride with us: click for info.
FIRST DAY OF NO RIDING - FAIL
Oct 28, 2019
by TODD BROWN
WHEN IS IT OKAY TO BREAK YOUR PROMISE TO TAKE A WEEK OFF? Does it really matter? I mean nobody is checking, right? Sure my body is worn out...
But, when a college buddy calls and says I'm in town, let's ride!
Ya gotta go.
Though the paths we ride are thousands of miles apart, our souls are still traveling together...
... and that's a ride I'm always never gonna pass on.
NOT ACCORDING TO PLAN
Oct 27, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I HAD PLANNED TO WRITE THIS BIG DRAMATIC END OF THE SEASON POST ABOUT THE SEASON. Then, I got home after a scorching Filthy 50 and melted into the couch. I was completely drained, vowing never to do it again.
Yesterday pretty much sums up my season. Set a giant goal, train to the point of not loving it, recover like no other, shock myself with the result, collapse in exhaustion.
24 hours later, and I feel a lot better... even starting to have fond feelings for the Filthy.
Which means if I'm really calling it a season, my collapse is going to extend for an entire week.
A week off the bike.
Do you think I'll make it?
Monday will be easy to resist - I'm pretty achey from the cramps I was fighting the last 20 miles.
Tuesday will be the last Market Ride of the year - it ends with the time change... so, I might ride.
Wednesday is pretty packed with work commitments, I should be good there.
Thursday I'm planning to surf with my brothers, which isn't really resting, but we are overdue for a board meeting.
Friday, oh Friday and it's cherished meditation/journal session... that'll be tough, maybe if I just ride really, really easy it won't count... or maybe I'll just fire up the scooter and get the journaling done.
Saturday, to try and make it impossible to ride I am thinking of camping Friday night and leaving the bikes behind.
Well, that's the plan for now.
Honestly, I'm pretty sure I'll falter... but I sure do need some rest.
I KNOW WHO I'LL BE TOMORROW.
Oct 25, 2019
by TODD BROWN
TOMORROW WILL BE MY LAST RACE OF THE YEAR, and I know what I’m gonna do.
I’ll be that racer cracking a few nervous jokes, trying to break the tension on the starting line.
I’ll be that racer with a giant grin, cheering other riders on and high-fiving the volunteers.
I’ll be that racer going all out, giving it all I’ve got.
I’ll be that racer covered in dust, and maybe a little blood.
I’ll be that racer fighting cramps, chewing my salt tabs.
I’ll cross the finish line, gassed.
I’m gonna have so much fun!
Who are you gonna be?
164.4 lbs
0/0
7 hrs
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THE ASSASSIN INSIDE
Oct 24, 2019
by TODD BROWN
EXACTLY 36 HOURS FROM NOW THE GUN WILL BLAST AT THE FILTHY 50 MTB. Dust will be flying. Blood pumping. Lungs filling. Brain quiet.
Brain quiet?
Yes, quiet.
No cell phone ringing.
No incessant internet pinging.
No wondering if I set the alarm.
No does this helmet make me look fat?
The world will be sealed off, my invoice shut down.
Quiet.
Deadly quiet.
The assassin will be in charge.
With one singular thought: Ride Fast.
_____
165.4 lbs
25/60
6 hrs
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IT'S HER BIRTHDAY
Oct 23, 2019
by TODD BROWN
MY GIRL IS A SURFER FIRST, BIKE RIDER 2ND. Which means we surfed this morning - paddle surfed... and, we might go for a bike ride tonight.
Do I panic I'll miss my planned DRTY WDNSDY ride? Not even.
It's all part of the diabolical plan: do all I can to make this day special so I can ride all I want the rest of the week.
It's more than that actually, because she celebrates the entire week.
So, on Monday night when she wanted to go watch the meteor shower I said Heck yes!... even though I knew we'd be out so late I'd have to skip the Tuesday Morning World Championships.
... all part of my diabolical plan to ride all I want the rest of the year.
_____
164.4 lbs
25/0
7 hrs
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AREN'T YOU GLAD?
Oct 22, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I SURE WISH I WAS RIDING RIGHT NOW. This is no way to spend an extraordinary afternoon. It's warm. It's is clear. A brilliant blue sky. But I'm here...
... and the drilling that's about to happen ain't the kind happening on the group ride I'm missing...
Open wide Todd.
A little wider.
I'd much rather have to close a widening gap in a cross wind than this.
You might feel a little pinch.
Give me screaming legs trying to keep up any day.
We're going to suction now.
No wheel sucker could be this annoying.
This temporary crown is good to go.
I'd rather DNF.
We'll see you in 2 weeks.
Not if it's a day like today.
_____
164.4 lbs
25/0
7 hrs
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THE TRAINING TRAIN
Oct 21, 2019
by TODD BROWN
DUE TO A COMMITMENT I HAVE TAKEN ON, MY REGULAR SHEDJULL (I love the English' English), has been interrupted. 50% of my standing Tuesday Morning World Championships are on hold. This is messing everything up, and it's gotta get fixed.
Tuesday afternoon training has leaked into the other days of the week.
My sleep, work and training habits are erratic.
Which makes me exactly like every other wannabe athlete.
I can already feel the next step, the dreaded and oh so lame...
"I just don't have time".
Whatabunchahooey!
I still got 24 hrs a day, 168 hrs a week. There's plenty of time to get it all done.
A I really need to do is get back on the training train... you know the schedule... commit to it.
All aboard!
_____
165.4 lbs (I know, I'm way up... part a gettin' off the train)
gym work
8 hrs
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THE ONE HOUR RULE
Oct 19, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I HAVE A NEW RULE. Well, it's not really new but I just realized I practice it so I might as well share it with you. There are some great pros with this rule, as well as a potential major con.
Here's the rule: If I can ride my bike to "the ride" within 1 hour, I'm riding.
Why? Because by the time I load the van/car/truck, battle the traffic to get there, and unload and prep... well, probably could have ridden there nearly as fast. Right? 5-10 minutes to load up, 15-30 minute drive, 5-10 minutes to unload.
Might as well ride.
I'll get there warmed up, ready to rip.
I'll save money on gas and wear and tear.
I might meet some of the posse on the way, always good.
What's the con?
Well, for example, after today's pretty heavy 4 hour MTB ride, which it took me an hour to get to...
... I still had to ride home.
_____
165.4 lbs
0/0
6 hrs
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I DON'T SCARE EASY
Oct 17, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I'M THE BRAVEST, TOUGHEST PERSON I KNOW until I'm faced with a threat. Then, I'm much for flight than fight. Tonight, long after the shadows took over, I leaped up a steep single track leaving the comfort of asphalt and street lights behind. It seemed like a good way to get back home.
My light was shining steady and bright, and I zoned out lost in my thoughts as my legs spun an easy tune. It felt so good to get away from the bustle of my daily hustle.
City behind.
Cars long gone.
Just me, my light and a dried mustard weed forest.
The moon was yet to rise. It would beam bright, eventually. But, at the moment things were quite dark.
I heard a yelp up ahead, to the left. Not a big deal.
Coyotes are shy. I see them often... in fact, I've been seeing them a lot lately. Usually alone. Occasionally, two or three. They are aren't starving, they are big and healthy.
Another yelp. This time ahead, and off to the right a bit.
At that moment, I was reminded of Justin's encounter with a coyote on the way to TMWC. It ran along side him. Unafraid. It flanked him. It should Justin up for weeks.
The next yelp was off to my left.
Were they surrounding me? I was alone. Going up hill. Breathing rather hard.
I stopped.
Whipped my rig around.
Flipped the beam to highest strength and got the heck outta dodge.
... real brave, real tough... ha!, not tonight.
_____
164.4 lbs
20/60
8 hrs
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YEP, I'M A TOOL.
Oct 16, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I'M PROBABLY NOT LIKE YOU. My day job is largely spent with 20 year olds. I also put in a fair chunk of time volunteering my time serving teenagers.
When it comes to my riding posse, I usually out old most of 'em.
I'm lucky, I guess.
All this youth, constantly sharing with me how they see the world. In obvious and subtle ways the teach me.
Yesterday, I received two great lessons.
Young Luke, 13 years old/100 lbs, kept attacking and attacking on a flat and windy course. He had no business even trying against a bunch of strong adults. That's the lesson, train hard and your races are easy.
The other was from AC. Airpods firmly drilled in, attention clearly zoned out.
I asked what he was listening to.
Music.
I like music too, so I asked what.
60s-80s-90s.
I like that too. I asked top band of each decade.
Grateful Dead-Dead Kennedys-Tool.
Only knowing a fair amount about the Dead, we got down to talking.
When I got home I pulled up the Essential Tool playlist on Apple Music.
... I may be old, but at least I'm a Tool (fan).
_____
163.6 lbs
Gym
7 hrs
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THE MID-OCTOBER FOOLERY
Oct 15, 2019
by TODD BROWN
INVARIABLY EACH OCTOBER I FIND MYSELF DELUDED. I'm just sure I'll wrap up the day's work early. I'm positive the sun will set later than advertised. I'm banking on the shadows to creep ever so slow.
And there I am, 20 minutes from home.
In the dark.
This particular delusion is amusing, because the consequences or riding lightless could be life-changing. But, there's a certain adrenaline associated with it, It keeps me alert. More alive.
And when I make it back and open the door...
I listen...
After all these years of cheating the night successfully,
there's still a little bit of relief within the walls...
... I'm home.
And that's a buzz that never gets old.
_____
164.8 lbs
0/0
7 hrs
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DON'T COUNT THE CALORIES
Oct 12, 2019
by TODD BROWN
I'M CURED. I'LL NEVER EAT ANOTHER DONUT. I'm always amused at the interactions when people find out we're spending the morning riding 100k, stopping at 10 incredible donut shops along the way.
How much weight will you gain?
Why would you eat all that junk?
... questions those who do the tour know are irrelevant. But, I'll answer them for your via my anecdotal experiences:
No weight will be gained because the appeal of sugary goodness has diminishing powers. Plus, while 100k was the quest... I rode more like 150k (80 miles 'mericans).
You eat that junk first because we skip it all season long, you eat "all" that junk because as I mentioned my sweet tooth lies 6' under at the moment.
What other benefits are gained on such a ride?
Well, the pace is tranquil and long and we all know LSD is the way to grow capillaries, right?
We end up actually learning where the best shops are and what their specials are. For example, someone told me South Swell was awful. However, I found their chocolate cronut to be amazing... always ask the server for recommendations.
But, the best is the people you meet along the way. The interwebs spread the gospel of TdD and beguiled new faces. At a minimum we enjoy the novel company, and more likely we'll ride together again.
My top 3 donuts
3. Chocolate Cronut at South Swell, Laguna Beach
2. Bacon In The Sun at Duck Donuts, Irvine (these are made to order)
1. The Smoked Apple Fritter at JD Flannels, San Juan Capistrano.
6:15... and we're rolling from Kelly's Donuts
Keep your helmet and glasses on... that sugar is gonna build and make you unstable.
Flirt of the day
The ferry to Seaside Donuts was a nice touch... what a morning!
At this point we're buying communal donuts and just breaking off pieces.
Rob's glove covered in powdered sugar from his french toast donut at Duck.
We're down to 4
I thought Sidecar donuts would be the most expensive... but no
But no, the most expensive and the best was the $4.75 Smoked Apple Fritter created by this guy and his team. A-Ma-Zing.
_____
163.4 lbs
0/0
6 hrs
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OFF THE BIKE IS GOOD TOO
Oct 11, 2019
by TODD BROWN
ONE OF THE WEIRDER ASPECTS OF BIKE FRIENDS IS HOW UNNEIGHBORLY WE CAN BE. After hours and hours and hours riding side by side, fueling up mid-ride and helping out when things are broke... we know everything about each other. You'd think we'd get together off the bike as well.
But we don't.
I have some ideas about that:
7. We're sick of each other.
6. We don't want our worlds to collide.
5. The sig others might not gel and who could risk that?
4. It's conflicts with an unsaid cycling norm.
3. Netflix bro
2. We're not as social as we think.
1. It's just me. I'm the weird one and the rest of ya are just leaving me out.
Not always!... MikeG pinged me for lunch today.
We should do that more.
... at least I should.
_____
163.4 lbs
0/0
7.4 hrs
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HEY MAN, CAN'T YOU READ?
Oct 10, 2019
by TODD BROWN
NEW RIDERS CAN'T READ. They get more flats, crash more, and so on. They can't see what you and I can.
It takes time.
I've been reminded of this the past couple of months by my own experience.
As I've ridden more and more technically challenging trails on my mountain bike, I've noticed my ability to judge what the bike can and can't do improving.
Each experience gets catalogued and as I see a similar challenge approach the successful solution gets burned further into my brain. The more this repeats the easier it gets.
Soon, I'm seeing the trail and quickly interpreting what to do.
It's easy.
Automatic.
I'm riding.
Not thinking.
I've learned to read, by riding.
PS. Tour d' Donut is this Saturday.
_____
164.2 lbs
30/60
7 hrs
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THE BIKE MAKES THE MAN
Oct 09, 2019
by TODD BROWN
YOUR BIKE DECIDES WHO YOU ARE, NOT YOU. Oh, you think you're in charge, but you're not. Not in a meaningful way.
Track racers don't have suspension.
MTBr's don't bring skinnys to the dirt.
Roadies have lots of gears.
Gravel... well, forget gravel for now...
The point is, your bike decides what kind of ride you're going on.
Choose your tools wisely.
PS. Tour d' Donut is this Saturday.
_____
163.6 lbs
gym work
8 hrs
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RESISTANCE IS(N'T) FUTILE
Oct 08, 2019
by TODD BROWN
THERE ARE TWO REALLY HARD ASPECTS OF A FLAT TRAINING RIDE.
I was able to overcome them because...
Gritters shamed me when I slid over after a 2 second pull.
Edwards kept attacking and giving us something to chase.
Robot bailed at the I.D. check... I love getting more hard miles in than him.
Tonight was fast... 32 miles in 1:20.
That's 23.6mph., and includes a lot of loliygagging.
We were on it, when we were on it.
Which brings up the 2 big challenges I face when using this flat ride for training:
First, the overwhelming temptation to sit 15+ riders back and sightsee. It's so nice back there. Often tame enough to chit chat. No wind in the face. Just riding hard enough to hang on.
Second, the inmyface recognition that hammering for allimworth is going to get me nowhere. That knowledge just hallows out my soul.
But, I am who I am.
I came with a plan.
To ride fast.
No matter.
... my legs hurt, and my mind is hardened.
PS. Tour d' Donut is this Saturday.
_____
164. lbs
20/60
8 hrs
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LAY(ER) IT ON ME!
Oct 07, 2019
by TODD BROWN
25 IN PARK CITY THIS MORNING, per Jeff.
47 in San Clemente this morning, per Todd.
I tell him the humidity makes it colder than it is...
... he laughs at me.
We're both laying it on pretty thick because it's time to layer up.
My ride today when from 47 to 59 inside of 12 minutes. Part of that is geographical, riding from the shaded river bed to the sun-warmed ridge tops. Part of it is just the time of year.
Layer time.
Today was just my kit and a windbreaker. That's what I like when I know the temp change is going to be rapid and drastic.
Other days I roll out with kit, vest and arm warmers. Ditching the arm warmers as thing percolate. Keeping the vest to warm my core.
Next is knee warmers with arm warmers and vest.
The most I typically need in these parts is arm and knee warmers with the windbreaker...
...unless it's in the 30's, then I'll add the vest too... 'cause humidity!
(Jeff goes kit only until sub-45... 'cause stud)
_____
164.6 lbs
0/0
7 hrs
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