Thursday, October 24, 2013

When Traversing MTB Trails, 29er Mountain Bikes Are the Way to Go

I'm excited to bring you more content from another writing associate. I really like bringing my readers different perspectives and information. I hope you find it useful and enjoyable.
-Matt


Mountain biking allows riders to see the glory of the great outdoors while partaking in an awesome exercise regimen. Australia has some of the best trails in the world, with varying levels of difficulty and terrain suited to all types of riders, from novices to advanced mountain biking enthusiasts. Of course, you'll need an appropriate bike to traverse MTB trails, and 29er mountain bikes offer many advantages over traditional 26-inch varieties.

29er mountain bikes

Newbies to the sport may be asking themselves what makes 29er mountain bikes so special? The 29 refers to the wheel circumference; that is 29 inches around as opposed to the standard 26-inch configuration. While some claim the 29er mountain bikes are unnecessary, most enthusiasts agree that these bikes offer many benefits thanks to the increased wheel size. 29er mountain bikes may not be ideal for every rider, but many will enjoy the enhanced ride and increased stability offered by these highly popular mountain bikes. Below are just a few of the many upsides afforded by 29er mountain bikes:

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

Athletic Success and Finding Inspiration Through Those That Reach The Top

This post comes from another writing associate and I am thrilled to get to share it. While it doesn't speak directly about cycling - the concepts are so perfectly parallel to the struggle on the road or trail that we all encounter from time to time. I hope you find it inspirational. Enjoy - Matt.

Sports stories have a huge popular following. Millions of fans follow football, baseball, or hockey games every week. Yet more millions stay glued to their television sets every four years as an Olympiad rolls on by. What is it that we find so incredibly compelling and inspiring about athletic pursuits and success stories? Why do we keep watching and listening? Athletics are a smaller version of human struggling, a microcosm our lives. In a game, a race, or a ring we watch a bit of history unfold. We watch individuals struggle against others and against themselves. We watch them struggle with the weight of expectations and the weight of what others have accomplished before. And inevitably we watch as someone overcomes obstacles and fears to become a champion and hero.

Sports as Life



We love success stories in sports because they remind us about certain facts of life success. The game is always hard. The game is never over until the end, and no winner was born a winner. The win is in the training, in the practice. Just trust Muhammad Ali, who gave us this gem among his numerous inspirational quotes: "I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'" When we watch feats of athletic excellence, we watch the culmination of suffering and the birth of a champion.

Success as Personal



Some of the greatest sports stories remind us that we can be our own biggest opponents. Rudy Ruettiger has been made famous through the film Rudy. He was a short, dyslexic kid in a huge family. His dream was to play on Notre Dame's Fighting Irish football team. First though, he had to get into Notre Dame itself by taking two years of credits from a local college.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Report; No Doping Positives at 2013 Tour de France

I editorialized on this topic at about the half-way point of the tour this year after the stage finish on Mt. Ventoux saying that the tour certainly looks cleaner as a whole; but there were still some "suspicious" performances. This latest report seems to support my feelings. 

Stopping short of saying that the tour was completely clean; it did confirm that there were no positives (at least for the products and methods that there are tests for...).

Francesca Rossi; Director of the Cycling Anti-Doping Foundation, commenting on the 622 samples, including 443 blood samples and 179 urine samples, said:
“We have no adverse analytical findings. We changed the strategy. We were unpredictable and the riders perceived we were unpredictable.”

Sunday, July 14, 2013

Doping in Cycling and Mt. Ventoux

So, what have we learned?

It certainly was a different looking assault on the Ventoux today: high speeds approaching the base with some favorites seemingly caught out early.  However, once the climb started it was much the same - explosive attacks, calculated responses, and deflating implosions.

The longest stage of this years tour with a grueling summit finish provides one of the fastest paces.

To be totally transparent; I was watching today for some signs of where our sport stands on the road to cleaning up the infection that performance enhancing drugs has been for over two decades. I think I am left with more questions than answers at this point. Some hopeful signs, but some "same ol' same ol'".

Have the lessons of the past borne fruit in the riders of the future? Is cycling cleaner? Some of today's performances would point toward yes.  But, even at the height of doping - the mid-'90's through the early '00's - Ventoux didn't look that different from today. What does that tell us?

Added Monday, July 15:
Greg LeMond Speaks Out for Chris Froome

Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell Among Sprinters Guilty of Doping

What say you?

Monday, July 1, 2013

Bike Seat Selection and Elevated PSA Levels

I recently received an e-mail from a client with an excellent question.  I'll let our exchange do the talking.

He wrote:
I have just had a physical and the only area that showed with some concern was my PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) level.  It could be elevated from one of the BPH medicactions that I take and/or all the bike riding.  I have decided given this situation to get some form of the Selle SMP saddles.  I am leaning toward the Dynamic.  Any thoughts on this.

My response:
As for saddles, as I have researched saddle selection and elevated PSA, the link between it and specific saddle selection seems weak at best but does stand to reinforce proper saddle dimensions, position, and set up.  The strongest link to elevated PSA (as it would appear separate from causation by prostate cancer cells) appears to be with cycling in general (and strenuous exercise specifically). Research by a couple of my mentors; seems to agree with these findings.

That is to say; I wouldn't let elevated PSA cause me to choose a saddle that I am not confident in, not comfortable riding, or just settling for in general. A saddle of proper dimensions, in the proper position; allowing it to correctly bear rider weight on the sit bones and minimize soft-tissue contact will be more prostate-friendly than otherwise.

So, as I am very commonly found to say - error on the side of your personal confidence and comfort, then be sure to have the position correct; which is my job, of course.

This is sure to raise some questions and thoughts with some of you so; fire away and I'll answer in order and as I'm able.

Thanks for reading!

Friday, June 28, 2013

Where to Watch Tour de France 2013 Online

Many of you have unplugged the cable TV just like we have.

In my house; that makes College Football season, the Olympics, Portland Trailblazers gamedays and the first three weeks of July particularly difficult.

However; there is a solution...



Allegro Cycling: Best Month Yet!

June is coming to a close and Allegro Elite Cycling is preparing to celebrate the BEST MONTH EVER of  in it's 2 year history.

I've been busy (if you can't tell from how little I'm posting here) and can't thank everyone enough. All the clients who have helped make this happen I count as friends - you are all credits to Portland's cycling scene.

So, in light of the best month in my Allegro's history - and since it is Friday - here's a Friday Five of why you should work with Allegro Elite Cycling

  1. Help on your schedule. You are busy. How many bike shops have set hours and tell you when they will work with you and when they won't? Yep - almost all of them.

Monday, June 24, 2013

How NOT to Load your Bike on your Roof Rack

This is not the Allegro Cycling approved method of loading your roof rack.




Crazy skills though! Who else is looking forward to Sagan and Cavendish battling it out for the green jersey at the 100th Tour de France?

Race starts Saturday - It's Cycling's Super Bowl time again!

Friday, June 21, 2013

Top Tips to Avoid Cycling Injuries

I have been particularly busy with some other projects the last few weeks - directing a soccer camp among them - so I apologize for the lack of new articles.


Fortunately; I have colleagues like Mike Roberts to help bridge the gap. Mike Roberts is a writer for Priority Legal.

I am happy to have his contribution here and hope you enjoy it. My only editorial addition would be to also consider proactive injury prevention in the form of getting a proper and thorough bike fitting. Thanks for your insight, Mike.
If you are a keen cyclist then you will know that there is a chance you may have a cycling injury.  If you are new to cycling, or you only cycle occasionally, then you may not be so aware.

Although you can’t stop cycling injuries happening altogether, there are a few things you can do to help prevent cycling injuries from occurring.  Here are our top tips:

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

How to Avoid Accidents While Cycling

Laura Ginn is a freelance writer and blogger who loves riding her bike because it is an eco-friendly way to get around and it also helps her stay in shape. No matter where she rides, though, she always puts safety first to ensure that she does not get hurt.

Laura offers some good tips relevant to all of us to one degree or another. And as anyone whom I invite to share here she offers a different perspective and tone than you are used to from me.

Thanks for contributing, Laura!



No matter where you ride your bicycle, whether it’s on a quiet road in a rural area, along the suburban streets where your home is, or in a busy, crowded city, there are certain precautions that you need to take to avoid accidents as best as you can. If you aren’t riding as safely as possible, you’re increasing the risk that you’ll be involved in an accident, and this increases your chances of being severely injured. To avoid problems before they start, therefore, you have to know what precautions to take and how to avoid accidents in the first place.


Don’t Ride on the Pavement

Riding on the pavement may at first seem safer than riding in the street, but it actually isn’t at all. You risk getting hit by vehicles that are backing out of their driveways or swiftly pulling into their driveways without looking. And when it comes to crossing the street, many drivers don’t expect to see bikers in crosswalks,

Friday, May 31, 2013

Expanded Services at Allegro Elite Cycling


As the summer event season kicks off - here's some news that may be of interest to you...

New services are launching at Allegro Elite Cycling. In addition to expert fitting and maintenance services; I now offer
  • Personal Technical & Mechanical Support
  • Event Technical & Mechanical Support
  • Individual Technical and Mechanical Instruction
  • Group, Club, and Team Presentations
I have always enjoyed and been available for these services and have performed them on several occasions with great results for my clients. I decided it was time to add some formality and structure and begin to publicize my availability in these arenas.

Pricing varies for these services - and in some cases there is no charge.

See the new page at Allegro Elite Cycling for more info or contact me with questions and to make booking arrangements.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

The Ideal Cycling Kit

I love the new opportunities I have had to bring you material from other writers. A fresh perspective from my old, tired, tech-heavy approach is great from time to time and this post is no different.

Pamela Simon has been hooked on cycling ever since the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and regularly blogs about her experiences in the saddle. Thanks, Pamela for allowing me to post your work. I am happy to publish it.

And with that, enjoy! -Matt.
----------------------

If you’re thinking about taking up cycling as a hobby or as part of a training regime with a view to compete, you need to make sure you’re properly equipped. Cycling has some different requirements to other sports, and a standard t-shirt and shorts combination probably won’t cut it if you want to do it properly. So, what do you need in your kit if you’re going to make it big in the world of cycling?

Of course, the first thing you need is a good bike. It’s important that this is the right size for you. While it can be OK to buy a cheap second hand bike, you need to make sure it isn’t too big or small before you agree to buy it. Going to a specialist bike shop may mean spending more on your bike, but you will know that it suits your size perfectly, so it will be perfectly safe and comfortable to ride and won’t cause any injuries from being the wrong size or shape for your body.

Friday, May 24, 2013

Danilo Di Luca out of the Giro - Positive for EPO. REALLY????

No, this is not a new "Blast From the Past" series I am starting - and it isn't for VeloNews either...
Photo: VeloNews.com
Oh, I get it - Oprah isn't as influential in Europe. That must be it. Because here in 'Merica we all learned a lot one weekend this past winter: Drugs are bad, cheaters get caught, don't do drugs.

Wow. What more can one really say? The performance-enhancing drug problem in cycling is either far bigger and deeper than we really thought (and I've been covering it for a while now); or some of the cyclists really are that deluded and think they will not get caught.

I vote for option #2...mixed with a little ignorance on the side.

Sorry for the short and blunt post - but seriously? What is it going to take?

Get the point already, guys! Clean up or get out.

Or, go start your own race league where drugs are legal; let Lance race, and go chase his skinny little tail around the Alps and Pyrenees for old times' sake.

Now - there is a long weekend coming up: squeeze in an extra ride!

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

My Interview with Bashir at All About Bicycles.com

Recently I was approached by another blogger; Bashir Kassam, who was interested in interviewing me for a feature on his comprehensive and rather appropriately named website: all-about-bicycles.com.

Feeling very flattered at such an offer I was happy to oblige - especially since Bashir and I seem to have common goals in demystifying cycling for beginners and helping others to progress in their enjoyment of the sport through sharing knowledge and experience that is otherwise hard to access.

We discussed bike fitting in detail (go figure...) and Bashir asked some excellent questions that I have not written about in some time or along such lines. It was a great exercise for me and surely has inspired some more content for this site as well.

Visit Bashir's site for great info and read the whole interview here: http://www.all-about-bicycles.com/matt-magee.html

Then, go out and ride!

Saturday, May 11, 2013

Developing A Simple Cardio Cycling Routine That Fits Around Stressful Lives – You Don’t Even Have To Join A Gym!

This week I'm bringing you a general fitness related guest post from Alex which has some good advice for all of us. Alex is an enthusiastic blogger and cyclist.  He often takes the time out of his busy life to take part in cardio cycling sessions and has seen his health and fitness improve hugely.
I hope you enjoy it! - Matt.

Have you been amazed by the cost of gym memberships? They have spiraled out of control! The average gym now charges members £50 per month, with premium gyms bumping the cost up to a ridiculously high £100. Even for those that can afford the monthly fee, the worry is that with work and their personal life, they won’t be able to get value for money.

If you are considering doing cardio on a regular basis, then joining a gym is not necessary. Cycling is one of the best ways to improve cardiovascular endurance. In fact, getting outdoors and avoiding the gym is a lot healthier and going to be much more fun than sitting in a gym. Here is the great thing about cardio routines; you can choose exactly how you work out! Whether you are someone worried about their long term health, or someone who just wants to improve their fitness ready for an upcoming sporting event, you can tailor a routine around your every single need.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

More Fake and Counterfeit Bikes Than Ever

Fake Specialized with a sheared-off headtube. Photo: BikeRadar.com
I took this topic up a number of years ago and it is one of the more popular topics on the site. While I don't write about it often I do when I feel there is something interesting and important to report.

I've covered the topic here:
Online Bike Fraud (Oct. 2006)

More Buyer Beware (Jan. 2007)

Beware of Knock-Offs (Feb. 2009)

Online Fraud Again (Jul. 2009)

While I love bikes and good deals just as much as anyone else; there is a certain measure of "buyer beware" to be had when shopping for your next purchase. That deal that seems too good to be true - may be just that. And I would hate for you to be the one who finds out the hard way.

"Just how pervasive of an issue is this, Matt?"

Thursday, April 25, 2013

What's Happening at Allegro Elite Cycling?

Here's a little look at what I've been up to this spring in my "work life" at Allegro Elite Cycling...

Click photo to go to Allegro's website...
If you haven't checked out my services; please head over there and see how I can help you love your cycling experience even more. There are some cool bike photos too - sort of a photo resume' - of many of the custom bike projects I have completed in the decade plus that I have been serving my clients.

Then; "Like" my Facebook Page for updates on appointment availability, special pricing, and other important happenings!

While I appreciate your readership here on the blog - if you live in the Washington County/West Portland area I would love to serve your cycling needs too. Look me up and lets talk about how I can help!

After that - go take a ride!

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Ride Report: First Spring Rides on the Waterford


It hasn't been a particularly nasty winter or spring - so perhaps this is more of a admission to how little I am riding right now (sad, I know). But, for the first time since fall I have been able to get the Waterford; my main steed (or ''sunny-day go-fast bike'') out twice to stretch her legs. It was a wonderful thing to be back on my main machine after riding the single-speed 'cross bike any time I was able to sneak away for a quick spin.


That ride revealed some wonderful things that I thought were worth sharing. Perhaps I feel that way because I am newly inspired again and doped up on natural vitamin D. Perhaps these were legitimate mini-revelations. Perhaps I am merely scraping the bottom of the barrel for writing material. Whichever the case - it is my blog so you are going to read about it anyway... :-)

Lame attempts at humor aside; I felt there was a few things worth writing about. Some of which will come in this post - some in subsequent posts. Here's a quick index:

  1. First road test of the Shimano RS-80's I got this fall. Like I said; I've been on the single-speed...sad, huh? However, I am now certain in my choice for new every-day wheels.
  2. New Clif Shot Gel road test. Hmmm; after years of using Hammer Products I am now having to search for alternatives. Read more about that soon.
  3. I am also testing Endurox R4 recovery drink after almost a decade of using Hammer Recoverite. Review coming soon.
  4. My habitual spring shake-down of all my components...made significant by the fact that my Waterford will celebrate it's 10th birthday this October! Keep reading for more...

Monday, April 8, 2013

Tire Pressure: What Can We Learn From Paris-Roubaix?

via Wikimedia Commons
My clients and frequent readers know that there are some small aspects of cycling that I can really "geek-out" about.  Tires and tire pressure are just one of them.

There are several places here on RoadRageCycling that I have discussed tire pressure from a variety of angles and today I submit another supporting article gleaned from tech data at yesterday's 2013 running of the legendary Paris-Roubaix.

Now, first; I should say that most of us do not ride under the conditions seen on any running of this historically punishing race. The distance, conditions, road surfaces, and intensity are factors that the sane among us usually try to avoid. Coupled with certain equipment choices that are not available or accessible to many of us - I will admit that a grain or two of salt should be used as you analyze this data and begin to apply it to your cycling preparation and habits.

However; the data also supports some techniques that I have been trumpeting for some time now as I have been using them in my cycling life and found the results to be favorable.

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Paris-Roubaix: Where to watch...when you have no cable.

Photo: Steephill.tv
So we're cutting back in my home and we got rid of cable a few months ago; which - as a big sports nut - has been a little difficult for me. Luckily my money-saving strategy is not a unique one and there are many places out there to still get your sports fix.

It's a little more difficult for cycling; but possible none-the-less.

Steephill.tv has been my go-to for a few years now when I am away from a cable connection or our main TV is otherwise occupied (I am married with 3 boys; so I can't always have the TV...that's my reality).

Monday, April 1, 2013

Video: Cancellara`s Big Flanders Win

If you were busy with other things early Easter morning like I was, you missed Fabian Cancellara`s excellent move in the closing kilometers of the Tour of Flanders to seal a victory over Peter Sagan by over a minute. Here`s a link to a Dutch video documenting the move. Fabian really put the hurt on Sagan in the final 25 meters of the climb - watch the gap that develops.



The gap that Fabian was able to develop over the final kilometers is quite remarkable and remeniscent of his dominating victories in Flanders and Roubaix a few years ago (you know, that year that he was accused of having a small motor in his bike???).

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Internal Spoke Nipples are From the Devil

One of my favorite tech writers, James Huang from CyclingNews/BikeRadar recently posted an article that resonated with the deepest chambers of my mechanic heart and soul:

Enough with the internal spoke nipples already

While James' article spoke from the angle of carbon tubular wheelsets and the arduous job that must be undertaken once you discover that your wheel is out of true on the evening before an event (as will occur more than once   per the laws of probability which you agree to when you purchase internal spoke nipple wheels... Wait, what? You weren't handed that signature page? Well, the agreement doesn't need your signature to be valid - it is a deal with the Devil, after all...) my beef with internal spoke nipples transcends to clincher wheels too; carbon and aluminum. Here's my reasoning why:

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

How to Prevent your Bike from Being Stolen

I have run a few stories about preventing bike theft here - and Gail Newland recently wrote an article that I think shares from a different perspective which was worth sharing. I hope you enjoy the guest posts I bring from time-to-time
How to Prevent your Bike from Being StolenIn the UK a bike is stolen on average every minute, with less than 6% being returned. Research studies show that cyclists are more likely to have their bicycle stolen than car owners or motorcyclists. Bicycle theft has also doubled since the 1990’s. A good combination of equipment, common sense and a bit of luck will ultimately help keep your ride exactly where you left it.
Bicycle Lock
An unlocked bicycle is the most common reason a bike gets stolen; it acts as an invitation for a thief to steal and only takes a few seconds to do so. Never leave your bicycle unlocked, under no circumstances!
A poor quality lock can easily be broken. It pays to invest in a high quality lock, usually around £30-£50. It’s a smart idea to lock your bicycle to something immovable or for maximum protection use two locks.
Parking
It’s a good idea to lock your bike in a public area where there are lots of people around. Most train stations and public buildings have designated areas for bikes with bicycle racks. Plan ahead and check out the facilities in the places you are planning to leave your bicycle.
When at home it’s still important to lock your bicycle, in the garage is the safest place for your bike. If you don’t have a garage, you could invest in a ground anchor, allowing you to attach it securely to the wall or a concrete floor. Keep your bike out of view, as it could act as in incentive to break into your property.
Another idea is to lock it next to better bikes, so it appears less valuable to those surrounding it, so is less likely to be targeted.
Bicycle Insurance
If you own an expensive bike, then bicycle insurance is definitely worthwhile. You can do this through your home contents insurance; however don’t forget to cover it for thefts away from home. If it’s a highly expensive bike then you may need more specific insurance cover against both theft and accidental damage.
Registration
Less than 6% of stolen bikes are returned due to police being unable to identify the owner. It’s fairly simple to register your bicycle, just take a photograph of it, along with any details about its make and model etc. If possible, mark your frame twice with your postcode, in two different places, one place must be hidden. This will be stored in your account, so will make it easier to recover your bike if it’s lost or stolen.
Your Bikes image
A good idea is to make your bike less attractive to the eye, which may not be a solution for some who value their bikes appearance over its function. Some ways to uglify your bike is bad paintjob, use of duct tape, made it appear muddy and removal of brands names etc. all helping to act as a deterrent.

This post was written on behalf of www.allabilitycycling.com by Gail Newland, a freelance writer.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Finding the Latest Cycling or Tri Gear Available


As a bike fitter it is part of my job to know the best solutions for a wide swath of varied and diverse problems. Trust me; it is not easy to keep up with all the product offerings available from the various brands out there in the wide world of cycling. And when it comes to the incredibly gear-centered sport of triathlon – an area where a great number of my clients come from – it is even more difficult. The products change so fast – many from year to year – that even the manufacturer websites are not always the most accurate and up to date.

So where does one turn?

Often one of the best sources around is to choose a web retailer. They are motivated to have the cutting edge products listed with specifications and pricing available. I have a short list of sources I trust who have proven to be accurate and reliable – sometimes even beating the manufacturer to getting the latest info out on the web. When I am needing to search a widevariety of triathlon gear for a client; my source is frequently All3Sports.com. Their thorough website often allows me to garner the information I need to also address questions and issues for my clients in their swim, run, and transitions.

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Tubular Tire Removal - A Quick Guide

I was removing some cyclocross tubulars today and (after removing the front tire) I realized that there is a proliferation of information and guides online about gluing tubular tires and about removing glue from tubular rims - but not a lot about actually removing the tires.

So I decided to do something about that!

Some of the reason there is not a lot out there about tubular tire removal is that it really can be pretty simple and the best tool you can have is raw effort. But, it never hurts to apply a few tips along the way, right?

(The photos are large - click for super-size detail view)

Step 1: Where to start -
Give yourself some time; nothing should be done with haste when it comes to tubular tires. If you're in a hurry to remove them; you're probably in a hurry to glue them. Gluing "tubi" tires in a hurry results in a garbage glue job and rolled tires. 
I like to begin on the opposite side of the wheel from the valve stem and work my way around the wheel using my thumbs to push the tire from the base tape away from the rim.
 This may partially be habit from removing clincher tires; but it has practical purposes too.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Don Walker and the State of the Industry

I was reading Velonews' interview with Don Walker (founder of the National Handmade Bike Show - NAHBS) this morning and this was too good not to share:
VeloNews: What’s the modern generation of cyclists missing? 
Don Walker: What are they missing? I think they’re missing the point. Let me explain. They keep on thinking that lighter equals better. And that’s not always the case. A light bike can ride like ****. As Roland Della Santa says, somebody asks how much one of your bikes weighs. And he says, “well, what are you going to do? Are you going to weigh it or are you going to ride it?” So many people are just missing the point.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

To Tax or to License? How Should Cyclists Pay Their "Fair Share"?

I posted this link on the Facebook page but I thought that a location here on the blog would be nice as this site sees far more traffic and could generate some decent discussion in the comments and enjoy a longer "shelf life".

There is some discussion here in the Pacific Northwest about taxing cyclists and bicycle commuters in order to raise revenue for road maintenance based on the argument that bicycle riders are not paying into the fund for road maintenance and are thereby using the infrastructure for free.

Here's the story on Washington State's proposal from local news channel, KGW:
-http://www.kgw.com/news/bicycles-tax-road-washington-192273901.html

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Friction Facts' High Efficiency Chain Lubricant Formula

Friction-Facts.com
I first wrote about Jason Smith's Friction Facts last year and since then it seems he's been keeping busy. Jason's work was even featured as a integral part of Velo Magazine's recent study of chain lubes - and seems to have caused many to question the meaning of life; much less their choice of chain lubricant.

I must admit to a little soul searching my self as my long-time favorite: ProLink was found to be among the higher-friction choices. Granted - we're talking about a very small amount of wattage here - probably the same amount my average output fluctuates given my varying fitness levels these days.

Friday, February 8, 2013

What are your sports nutrition options?

Article written by Lauren Sutton on behalf of leading nutritional supplement supplier Sci-MX.
A lot of people wishing to build up their muscle, improve their diets, or simply just keep a healthily lifestyle, turn to sports nutrition supplements. This is a great way to complement a well-balanced diet and regular exercise plan. However if you're new to the game, it could be tricky to know what exactly you can eat/consume to help boost your health. There are a few key choices on offer; some of which are detailed below.

Friday, February 1, 2013

Watch Cyclocross World Championships Live Online

UPDATE:

Potential flooding of Eva Bandman park on Sunday in Louisville has forced a reschedule of race events. All Sunday races have been moved to Saturday and the Saturday schedule has been rearranged to accomodate the changes.

The new schedule is as follows: ( be sure to adjust your viewing plans...)

Saturday
9:45 am ET: Junior Men
11:00 am ET: Elite Women
12:30 pm ET: U23 Men
2:30 pm ET: Elite Men

VeloNews is providing live streaming coverage of all the action from Louisville this year (in leu of a TV contract.) Head to this link to find the schedule and the video.

VeloNews' 2013 Cyclocross Worlds Live Streaming

Friday, January 25, 2013

Video: Oprah's Interview with Lance Armstrong


I have somewhat openly covered doping in cycling here over the years - taking a stance that was somewhat unpopular: that there is more of it going on than we realize and some of our heroes are guilty.The hottest topic in cycling and sports lately...regardless of how you feel about it. Some are a little disappointed or disgruntled. Others feel relieved that it is out in the open.

Myself: I think once you realized that 1) Armstrong has been one if the biggest and best liars in the world for the last 15+ years and this story is so ingrained in his psyche that the lie feels more like the truth now and 2) his arrogance and litigious brutality is a defense mechanism he uses when he cannot; in his words, "control the narrative". This is a small step in the right direction - much like getting the first olive out of the jar - and now the other steps may come easier.

(Click past the break for video and comments...)

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

3 Maintenance Tips for Servicing Your Bicycle


Another guest post; this time from Kelly Holmes, from Australia. Kelly offers some good tips here on taking care of your machine. I'm loving the different perspective that these guest posts bring and hope you are too. Learn more about Jamie at the end of the article. Enjoy.

If you have a bicycle that you depend on regularly for exercise or transportation, it is important for you to take good care of your bike so that it will last. There are plenty of things that you can do in order to maintain your bicycle, and taking this time can help improve your bike's performance and ensure that it will last you for many years. In fact, you might be surprised by just how well your bicycle will work and just how long you can keep it in good condition by performing this regular maintenance, and it only takes a few minutes every once in a while in order to maintain your bike. In fact, these three maintenance tips can work wonders for your bike, and you can perform all of them at home.

Copyright

All content - except where otherwise noted - copyright 2006 - 2013 Matthew Magee. Do not use without permission.

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