tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91912313635743570112024-02-02T13:51:19.646-06:00Road Rage Cycling BlogBicycle news, reviews, tips, and opinion
from Portland, Oregon - Biketown, USAUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger198125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-56573207269817337532014-03-31T09:54:00.000-06:002014-03-31T10:00:12.515-06:00Things You Should Know When You Begin Cycling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">When you begin cycling you should do your best to be as assertive and to ride as safely as possible. There are a number of things to keep in mind, and as boring as cycling safety may be, it is what will help prevent accidents. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Always lock up your bike. Even if you are just popping into a shop for five minutes, lock your bike up. You might even want to use two different locks. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Take a cycling training course if you haven’t done so already. OK, so you may have learnt to ride a bike when you were small and how hard is it to remember? It’s literally like riding a bike again. But, you will be surprised what a two hour course can do. It will change the way you think about cycling and the way you cycle, forever. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Understand the rules of the road and exercise good cycling proficiency. This will help to keep you safe on the roads. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">When you get to a traffic light what should you do? Gear down. Pedalling in high gear once the lights have turned green is for fools. Gear down and give yourself a head start. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Part of being a cyclist is knowing your instrument; your bike. Get to know your bike inside and out. You shouldn’t set off on a ride if you don’t know how to fix a puncture. A puncture repair kit will help you, so will puncture-proof tyres. Be wise, and know how to fix one, just in case. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is also important that you carry out essential bike maintenance. There is plenty of advice on the internet; apps, YouTube are all there with helpful tips. By learning these handy tips yourself you will be able to save yourself money by not constantly checking your bike in for regular maintenance and fixes. </span><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Make sure that your tyres are always firmly pumped before heading out on your bike, a flat tyre can be extremely dangerous. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">It can be tempting to cycle fast and not take the time to practice proper cycling proficiency. Take your time, look before you signal to manoeuvre, glance back before you place your arm out to turn. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">You will find that pedestrians do walk out in front of you, cars forget to look and people in general will irritate you. Take a deep breath, sometimes you need to take an extremely deep breath, and focus on the task at hand. Try your best not to get angry, cycling should not be stressful, despite what can happen sometimes. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Bicycle accidents sadly do happen. If they do it is important that you speak to a bike solicitor to file a bicycle accident claim. Do what you can to be as safe as possible on the roads, but if you are involved in a bike accident then take the necessary steps to claim the compensation that you deserve. </span></div>
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<a href="http://carryoncycling.co.uk/" style="border: 0px; color: #1c8ab4; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;"><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: blue; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Carry on Cycling</span></a><span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> can help you with your claim. Get in touch with the specialists today. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">To learn more about cycling in Wales<a href="http://www.ctc.org.uk/wales" style="border: 0px; color: #1c8ab4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"> click here.</a></span></div>
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<i style="line-height: normal;"><strong>About the author</strong>:</i></div>
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Sarah Mcarthy is a writer for Carry on Cycling. You can find her on <a href="https://plus.google.com/107513404086398438482/posts" style="border: 0px; color: #1c8ab4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;">Google Plus</a> here.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-73115943738651168262014-03-07T12:14:00.001-06:002014-03-07T12:20:14.445-06:00Cleat Positioning on New Shoes: A Bike Fitter's PerspectiveHonestly; I'm a little reluctant to "ask a mechanic" about something so closely related to your positioning on your bike; but this video pretty much hits the nail on the head. Mostly for their emphasis on the fact that this achieves an "approximation" and will not be a precise method of replicating the cleat position from shoe-to-shoe.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/TvmY7fuKVq4" width="480"></iframe><br />
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The tips in the video will help you achieve a starting point - but for fine tuning; you must treat every pair of shoes individually - especially if different brands and models are involved.<br />
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Other things to consider:<br />
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<li>The markings on the sole should not be treated as precise either. These are merely a guide for approximate purposes. Differences in stencil or decal position or how the sole is joined to the upper from shoe to shoe can influence their accuracy significantly.</li>
<li>Getting new shoes is an excellent time to have your bike fit checked if not re-evaluated - especially if it has been a few years since your last comprehensive fitting. Aside from physiological changes that occur in that time from changes in fitness, flexibility, or injury; new shoes will position your foot differently relative to the pedal in the X, Y, and "Z" planes (3-dimensional) and pain, discomfort, or injury may result if not done properly.</li>
<li>A new pedal system (change in brand or model) is also a good time to re-evaluate your fitting. These above guidelines apply even more loosely when a change in pedals/cleats is involved. Different brand/model pedals have different "stack" which effects leg extension. They also may need to be positioned differently in terms of fore/aft, left/right, and rotation to account for float and other positional differences.</li>
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Be kind to your knees and take your foot/shoe/pedal interface seriously. It makes a difference!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-17049784038003950772014-03-06T18:11:00.001-06:002014-03-06T18:19:30.127-06:00Zipp Looks to Educate Buyers on Counterfeits<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoUj3OirSTYuScJGq0JSxNWn9LjuUxP_age6UfdVy5stRDCvtqDIbinn9sFT7LrQr8_278q7LgGekFFzmc4lTgXayxW_XyLHeuQns2ITCiwn3oVaPKaPpzedIrUn9dKrM644oFhFj4vA/s1600/Zipp_Fake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaoUj3OirSTYuScJGq0JSxNWn9LjuUxP_age6UfdVy5stRDCvtqDIbinn9sFT7LrQr8_278q7LgGekFFzmc4lTgXayxW_XyLHeuQns2ITCiwn3oVaPKaPpzedIrUn9dKrM644oFhFj4vA/s1600/Zipp_Fake.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a>I have well documented the bike industry's battle against counterfeit product here on the blog. (<a href="http://www.roadragecycling.com/2013/05/more-fake-and-counterfeit-bikes-than.html" target="_blank">Here</a> and <a href="http://www.roadragecycling.com/2009/02/beware-of-knock-offs.html" target="_blank">here</a> specifically, with other references throughout.)<br />
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Aside from the obvious effect it has on manufacturer/distributor bottom lines and brand perception; counterfeit product presents a dangerous safety risk. Authentic products are tested to extreme levels of performance by the brand which designs and produces them to ensure they deliver on the promises they make but also to protect the end users - us - in this inherently dangerous sport we love.<br />
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Have you ever experienced a component failure? I know from my years behind a bike shop counter that those experiences are few. But; the ones I have seen are scary and often quite injurious to the user as well.<br />
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Counterfeit products can be hard to spot (except from the often accompanying "too good to be true" price); but the downside to the risk is huge. Learn to identify some of the warning signs that a product may not be what it is represented to be and be an advocate for your own safety.<br />
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Finally - buying authentic product is also a way of saying that you want these companies that produce the best gear in the world to stick around and continue doing what they do best - serve up two-wheeled joy! Buying fake goods puts money in the hands of cheaters instead of those doing the hard work as well as delivers an often inferior and unsafe product to you.<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151929932156053.1073741959.38574956052&type=1" target="_blank">Zipp posted some photos on their Facebook page that are helpful</a> - not only for their products - but as a guide for what to look for on many bands.<br />
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Ride real!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-77035704749698471182014-02-20T12:29:00.001-06:002014-03-07T15:26:40.547-06:00Are You a Cyclist? Know Your Rights on the Road! <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOGrefcsIpCRpro-lahvqFASIG1aVPMhw4lCezruyIf4ZYf3BDYGoa8Qn0WuJvclUOQPWbZagN23uSfnSg3V8eXDW8DuTRgS-sZJLxrkTQqtTKNiz0hG-67erdN6n1lKeEZMrO-ruPiQ/s1600/shadow-of-cyclist-139581_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOGrefcsIpCRpro-lahvqFASIG1aVPMhw4lCezruyIf4ZYf3BDYGoa8Qn0WuJvclUOQPWbZagN23uSfnSg3V8eXDW8DuTRgS-sZJLxrkTQqtTKNiz0hG-67erdN6n1lKeEZMrO-ruPiQ/s1600/shadow-of-cyclist-139581_640.jpg" height="320" width="240"></a>Cyclists have the same rights on the road as other vehicles, even though the size difference may make cyclists<span id="goog_922725895"></span><span id="goog_922725896"></span>occasionally forfeit some of them for safety’s sake. The Uniform Vehicle Code (UVC) established your rights and responsibilities as an operator of a vehicle that are equal to those of automobile drivers with some exceptions such as stipulations that are not applicable to you as a cyclist. The National Committee on Uniform Traffic Laws and Ordinances established the UVC as a reference that addresses traffic laws in the United States.<br>
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<a href="http://www.farrislaw.net/bike-and-pedestrian-accidents/">Bike Accident Attorney Spencer Farris</a> put together a list of things a cyclist must know to ensure their safety and rights on the road.<br>
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<strong>Enjoying Your Statutory and Constitutional Rights</strong><br>
Your rights as a cyclist are included in the UVC, and they are accepted by most states. Many countries include cyclists’ rights in their constitutions so that you enjoy safety when you ride.<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2014/02/are-you-cyclist-know-your-rights-on-road.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-45976289510337012452014-02-11T15:10:00.003-06:002014-02-11T15:11:19.333-06:00Allegro Elite Cycling Welcomes Wahoo Fitness!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKqwrTHOaox_qjPOAQLKSjgRT0SP-Dh_9ujY3x0q-ra-vjZyWoxs2TCEbZYhhCuOn_oPWLe8x1oX-4tkktQVUxS24lX_CN23MOD9hYNowxBj1KnbWDB3SxUxuvIBi5-jOogtUhtsyllI/s1600/IMG_20140211_130606.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDKqwrTHOaox_qjPOAQLKSjgRT0SP-Dh_9ujY3x0q-ra-vjZyWoxs2TCEbZYhhCuOn_oPWLe8x1oX-4tkktQVUxS24lX_CN23MOD9hYNowxBj1KnbWDB3SxUxuvIBi5-jOogtUhtsyllI/s1600/IMG_20140211_130606.jpg" height="318" width="320" /></a></div>
Just arrived last night; the <a href="http://www.wahoofitness.com/" target="_blank">Wahoo Fitness</a> RFLKT and BLUE SC. These are test units; I'll be testing and reporting on them (so be watching for my review) and <b>you can schedule an appointment to test yourself</b> and then buy direct from <a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allegro</a>.<br />
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If you are not familiar with Wahoo and their line of products; they create tools which augment and complement the apps that many of us have grown to use and love for tracking our fitness activities using our smart phones. Integrating seamlessly with Strava (my app if choice);the RFLKT will display your data live from your handlebar while your phone is still safely stowed in your pocket. </div>
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To test the RFLKT and BLUE SC (speed and cadence sensor) yourself; contact me by email (allegrobike@gmail.com) or call/text me at <a href="tel:971-238-4130" x-apple-data-detectors-result="1" x-apple-data-detectors-type="telephone" x-apple-data-detectors="true">971-238-4130</a> to reserve a date. Your small deposit includes installation and setup/pairing with your iOS device (iPhone, etc) and can be credited to your purchase. </div>
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Purchase pricing also includes delivery, install, and setup. </div>
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Watch here for a through review and details including all Wahoo pricing. </div>
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Enjoy the ride!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-30229379847432654302014-01-30T16:46:00.000-06:002014-01-30T16:46:59.075-06:00Basic Tips for Cycling Safety<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAS-DeweqsJBjKPdDB5jMV67nbH3R6q2p7eo_l3ooeJQA3cGiU5cvM4xqaQdXXbXZDiP0GQ2V1PvR5oBR1mXidGiPnBtMKyo_yp6NPErNDZvC6j6-E3j5LZ1_nP01UP_i9zeaT-LwpCII/s640/Safety%252520Tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAS-DeweqsJBjKPdDB5jMV67nbH3R6q2p7eo_l3ooeJQA3cGiU5cvM4xqaQdXXbXZDiP0GQ2V1PvR5oBR1mXidGiPnBtMKyo_yp6NPErNDZvC6j6-E3j5LZ1_nP01UP_i9zeaT-LwpCII/s640/Safety%252520Tips.jpg" height="320" width="254" /></a><i>As my safety month comes to a close; I thought a post from some industry associates in Colorado was apropos. I hope you enjoy as I let them weigh in on the issue...</i><br />
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In an effort to stay physically active, more people than ever are beginning to reap the benefits of cycling. Although cycling is a very exciting way to exercise, the rider must contend with potentially dangerous obstacles such as passing traffic and environmental hazards. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind when commuting via a bike. <br />
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<b>Stay visible</b><br />
It is of the utmost importance that every cyclist stays visible at all times. Wearing extremely bright clothing is a great way to alert inattentive motorists. Never ride a bike without first installing the appropriate reflectors. <br />
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<b>Inspect the bike before hitting the road</b><br />
Although a traditional bike is not equipped with a motor, it stills needs to be properly maintained. Some of the most important things to do before heading out include checking the tire pressure, inspecting the chain, and testing the brakes. It is also advisable to keep a tire repair kit on hand during the journey. <br />
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<b>Obey the law</b><br />
When traveling along public roads, cyclists must remember to obey all of the traffic laws. Even if no vehicles are present on the road, make it a habit to always use the appropriate head signals. <br />
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<b>Stay alert</b><br />
Although cycling can be a very relaxing experience, it is still important to stay attentive to the surroundings. Looking ahead for oncoming obstacles such as parked vehicles and potholes will help to keep the rider safe. Readers that desire to obtain more cycling information can <a href="http://ltrsports.com/default.aspx?">click here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrisdn5BstzTx-cC31QD6nb4r8x_GVXE-TE_d0UVMAZ72k3u36vxJ0qRNXAS6tT7LjV_PuH0Au5iifgDcMgM1ctxGckwj3zX62QELm9i1pIsI6L7jhLe_LfiTtAE2eG9skzTdVGRK7_gE/s1600/SPTDW206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrisdn5BstzTx-cC31QD6nb4r8x_GVXE-TE_d0UVMAZ72k3u36vxJ0qRNXAS6tT7LjV_PuH0Au5iifgDcMgM1ctxGckwj3zX62QELm9i1pIsI6L7jhLe_LfiTtAE2eG9skzTdVGRK7_gE/s1600/SPTDW206.jpg" height="266" width="400"></a></div>
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''Form follows function'' - a design mantra attributed to Louis Sullivan; Chicago architect and designer of some of America's most recognizible buildings including Manhattan's Flatiron. The principle being that you need to ensure that an object will serve the intended purpose (be functional) before you set out to make it beautiful (perfect its form).<br>
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I think helicopters are an excellent example of form follows function. After all: when was the last time you looked at a helicopter and said ''That's one beautiful helicopter!'' Yeah, I can't remember either. And, I love helicopters - I'm a big aviation nut - but as much as I love the AH-64 Apache, it is NOT pretty. Functional beyond the shadow of a doubt, but ugly as sin.<br>
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Now that we've established my understanding of modern design (or lack thereof), I think we can also easily establish that we all understand that the primary function of a good helmet is to protect the wearer from impact induced injury. After all, how many of us wear a helmet to look cool?<br>
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Show of hands?<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2014/01/are-helmets-getting-uglier.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-30694205565216904522014-01-22T12:58:00.000-06:002014-01-22T12:58:26.127-06:00What Can Richard Sherman Teach us About Cycling?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01VYw_KouvF8qD1yjXrBt4bk5ufAA7pnmUSJINGwc_Stf8fmuzzfCnL9lM8SclUhtoEC3qUXJtZPayAYw5dMoBD5M9-djJJJzyX3cF50opOHFLhVmNTph6px9FMyZT5MzZo6EXqWFUwI/s1600/Sherman.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01VYw_KouvF8qD1yjXrBt4bk5ufAA7pnmUSJINGwc_Stf8fmuzzfCnL9lM8SclUhtoEC3qUXJtZPayAYw5dMoBD5M9-djJJJzyX3cF50opOHFLhVmNTph6px9FMyZT5MzZo6EXqWFUwI/s1600/Sherman.JPG" height="225" title="" width="400"></a><br>Richard Sherman's infamous post-game rant: <a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-playoffs/0ap2000000315529/Sherman-calls-out-Crabtree-in-postgame-interview" target="_blank">NFL.com Video here...</a></div>
<br>I'm dedicating the month of January to safety. And Richard Sherman is a Cornerback, not a Safety - so that's not the tie-in... nice try though. ;)<br>
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Even if you don't follow the NFL or aren't a football fan you have probably heard something about this story on the news or social media. The "rant heard 'round the world" has garnered quite a reaction (and an elevated profile for Mr. Sherman, which he certainly appreciates). And, all the cool bloggers are covering it, so I figured I'd jump into the fray! What's to lose? Right?<br>
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Is this a stretch? Nope, you'll soon see. Stick with me here...<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2014/01/what-can-richard-sherman-teach-us-about.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-89109282347630150322014-01-15T13:37:00.000-06:002014-01-22T17:47:10.962-06:00Maintaining the Motivation to Exercise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzkuapu9Hv-zEdlg_84-V8H0oYV0fjUk-5AC1OG7l5Ld0K1lC313Ko9XBkCHuHB_9ThXlWs6hlKYc-od3oCtabt7utoV4yTQ2r6bmcho_su_VASDlt0wKepvvBBxyQzIrTubQ2bhuzT0/s1600/motivation.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGzkuapu9Hv-zEdlg_84-V8H0oYV0fjUk-5AC1OG7l5Ld0K1lC313Ko9XBkCHuHB_9ThXlWs6hlKYc-od3oCtabt7utoV4yTQ2r6bmcho_su_VASDlt0wKepvvBBxyQzIrTubQ2bhuzT0/s1600/motivation.jpeg" height="320" width="318"></a></div>
<i>"You said it was a safety-themed month. What does this have to do with safety, Matt?" I can hear you all asking right now...<br><br>Without stretching or grasping at straws; here's your answer: Without exception, the times that I have experienced my greatest exercise related injuries and accidents all occurred when I was fighting to get back into a routine after taking time off. If I'm being honest with myself; most of my "time off" has been for lack of motivation, and not other, possibly more "legitimate" reasons.<br><br>I've dealt with the topic of motivation before, in fact; you could consider it a cornerstone of the blog as <a href="http://www.roadragecycling.com/2007/02/2806-motivation.html" target="_blank">my first post addressed the topic directly.</a><br><br>So, without further adieu; our latest contribution on Motivation. Enjoy.<br></i>
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It is easy to say, I will exercise but what about the commitment and discipline. We need to motivate ourselves in order to sustain regularity and continuity. We must have that inspiration to do exercise. If we can have models in our mind, perhaps we can identify with them and be motivated to exercise. Even without idols as long as we keep in mind that our bodies are God’s temples and without these bodies we won’t be able to carry our spirits nor achieve our purpose here on Earth. Therefore, let’s get physical.<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2014/01/maintaining-motivation-to-exercise.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-81033666082720559712014-01-07T11:52:00.000-06:002014-01-15T13:39:19.148-06:00Don’t Just Spin Your Wheels: Road Safety Tips for Cyclists<i>January is taking on a bit of a safety theme with this next post - perhaps I'll continue that through the month with some of my own contributions on the topic as it is something I think of often while I'm riding.<br><br>Some of the safety errors I see by fellow riders make me sad and want to share some tips to help us all be safer and make the roads a better place for all users. But I tend to get bogged down in all the tech stuff because it's what I'm such a geek for... So; with that, I'll let my associate from Adams Law Firm in Texas kick off the rest of the month with some great tips. Enjoy!</i>
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With cars zipping past you at forty miles an hour, cycling on public roads can be a terrifying experience for new and experienced riders alike. That's why <a href="http://www.sanmarcosinjurylawyer.org/">personal injury lawyer Kelvin Adams</a> recommends knowing the best ways to keep yourself safe while riding your bicycle.<br>
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<img alt="Bike Safety" src="http://www.freestockphotos.biz/pictures/17/17049/An+African-American+couple+preparing+to+ride+bikes.jpg" style="float: left; height: 200px; margin: 5px; width: 300px;">What to Wear</h2>
The first, and most important, thing a rider can do to protect themselves is to always wear a helmet when riding. Brain injury is the most likely cause of death in a cycling crash. Even if it is not required by law to wear one in your area, it as very important to wear a properly fitting helmet. Also important is making sure that drivers are able to see you. High-visibility clothing and bicycle mounted reflectors will make cyclists more noticeable to motorists, making it easier to avoid hitting them. Front and rear lights should also always be used when cycling at night.<br>
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Plan Ahead</h2>
Some places are safer for cyclists than others, so it is a good idea to plan a route before leaving home. <a href="http://www.bicyclinginfo.org/engineering/facilities-bikelanes.cfm">Roadside bicycle lanes</a>, dedicated bicycle paths and multi-use paths are the safest places to ride. Roads with a wide, unobstructed shoulder are also good.<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2014/01/dont-just-spin-your-wheels-road-safety.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-19027294768941368832014-01-03T18:59:00.003-06:002014-01-15T13:39:46.057-06:00Keep Kids Cycling Safe This Winter With Fun Gear And Accessories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">As a father to three bike-crazy boys, this post from Crispin Jones piqued my interest as one that was worth sharing with you all in this new year. It is a departure from my usual topics, but important, worth while,</span></i><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">and near to my heart.</span></i><br>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Let's keep our kiddos safe out there folks so they get all the years of cycling joy they have coming to them! Thanks, Crispin! Readers: enjoy...</span></i><br>
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As the nights start to draw in earlier, many children will find themselves cycling home from school in the dusk. It's important for any cyclist to ensure that they are safe and can be seen when it gets darker, so there's a wide range of protective gear available to ensure your kids are safe on the road. Here are some practical but fun ideas worth considering.<br>
<strong>Bike helmet</strong><br>
A bike helmet is a must for cycling at any time of day, but it's even more important to protect your head when cycling in the dark. There are lots of styles and colours of bike helmets to choose from, but the important feature is that the helmet should be a good fit and sturdy. Old helmets that have taken a few knocks and scuffs will need replacing and won't give your kids the protection they need. For the fun element, get a helmet in a cool design such as a dinosaur shape or with funky colours, motives, spots or favourite characters.<br>
<strong>High visibility vests</strong><br>
If your child is going to be cycling in the dark then a high visibility vest is a real must to ensure they are clearly seen by other road users. <br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2014/01/keep-kids-cycling-safe-this-winter-with.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-87065627890592350902013-10-24T15:17:00.000-06:002014-01-15T13:40:31.015-06:00When Traversing MTB Trails, 29er Mountain Bikes Are the Way to Go<i>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.<br>-Matt</i><br>
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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.<br>
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<a href="http://www.reidcycles.com.au/bicycles/mountain-bikes.html" target="_blank"><img alt="29er mountain bikes" src="http://www.reidcycles.com.au/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/x/2/x229_4.jpg" style="height: 400px; width: 600px;"></a><br>
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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:<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/10/when-traversing-mtb-trails-29er.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-31997518245350476782013-09-13T09:12:00.000-06:002013-09-13T09:12:03.833-06:00LeMond Returns: Introducing Three New Models at Interbike<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxv1g8vSsfIa4p8kaUJf-ZqyvmAx_wsUXm5CAvTZy5VEJRp12QFzxReJcZ6lxWGXPAgUwOxmCrGEpPS1toFkNC7Cb9cMzclPi7BXSG__avXq5q66DCSu9aePafXCDpqRvnc044w5SkXvE/s1600/LeMondTimeTeaser.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxv1g8vSsfIa4p8kaUJf-ZqyvmAx_wsUXm5CAvTZy5VEJRp12QFzxReJcZ6lxWGXPAgUwOxmCrGEpPS1toFkNC7Cb9cMzclPi7BXSG__avXq5q66DCSu9aePafXCDpqRvnc044w5SkXvE/s400/LeMondTimeTeaser.jpg" width="400"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: Time Sport/LeMond</td></tr>
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Source: <a href="http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/greg-lemond-partners-with-time-for-road-bikes-38407/">http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/greg-lemond-partners-with-time-for-road-bikes-38407/</a><br><br>I really wish I was going to Interbike this year...<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/09/lemond-returns-introducing-three-new.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-53630266803845999402013-08-21T06:00:00.000-06:002014-01-15T13:40:57.721-06:00Athletic Success and Finding Inspiration Through Those That Reach The Top<i>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.</i><br>
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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.<br>
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Sports as Life</h2>
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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 <a href="http://www.ali.com/">Muhammad Ali</a>, who gave us this gem among his numerous <a href="http://www.lifed.com/top-100-inspirational-quotes-to-live-by">inspirational quotes</a>: "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.<br>
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Success as Personal</h2>
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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. <br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/08/athletic-success-and-finding.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-68483160317680442882013-08-20T10:55:00.001-06:002013-08-20T10:56:30.470-06:00Report; No Doping Positives at 2013 Tour de France<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJwiT7fj5U4_0yzuehEm2n-38w054zgV0gG3M5cwkmHUtWjqGCHVGPO9H3C8cRvttnwW-Wwxnz1keWIj9hdpfwLS7neZN0J9F1S4SVGwfhl2f_8kFhtWXCMlpA0s_Z-pZ_ZzEQceUQlA/s1600/doping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggJwiT7fj5U4_0yzuehEm2n-38w054zgV0gG3M5cwkmHUtWjqGCHVGPO9H3C8cRvttnwW-Wwxnz1keWIj9hdpfwLS7neZN0J9F1S4SVGwfhl2f_8kFhtWXCMlpA0s_Z-pZ_ZzEQceUQlA/s320/doping.jpg" width="320"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I editorialized on this topic at about the half-way point of the tour this year <a href="http://www.roadragecycling.com/2013/07/doping-in-cycling-and-mt-ventoux.html" target="_blank">after the stage finish on Mt. Ventoux</a> 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. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Stopping short of saying that the tour was completely clean; it did confirm that there were no positives <i>(at least for the products and methods that there are tests for...)</i>.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">Francesca Rossi; Director of </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">the Cycling Anti-Doping Foundation, commenting on the </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;">622 samples, including 443 blood samples and 179 urine samples, said:</span></span><br>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We have no adverse analytical findings. We changed the strategy. We were unpredictable and the riders perceived we were unpredictable.”</span></span><br>
</blockquote><a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/08/report-no-doping-positives-at-2013-tour.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-81953436242095561132013-07-14T08:35:00.001-06:002013-07-15T09:26:18.947-06:00Doping in Cycling and Mt. Ventoux<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklSjvJkyLdaDuYOIuVNVOYbJbbAMlRbOL2ep_seSEiSB_Ptid4p3Q30JCrnz0htYxDYggM5rreyfB4XfsORDGIg8-t-x5E_H8tTuRMK2oHAtwV2w909yjuBDqhqR5lHADUcjtMLkyQDw/s1600/photo-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjklSjvJkyLdaDuYOIuVNVOYbJbbAMlRbOL2ep_seSEiSB_Ptid4p3Q30JCrnz0htYxDYggM5rreyfB4XfsORDGIg8-t-x5E_H8tTuRMK2oHAtwV2w909yjuBDqhqR5lHADUcjtMLkyQDw/s400/photo-2.JPG" width="400" /></a>So, what have we learned? <br />
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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.<br />
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The longest stage of this years tour with a grueling summit finish provides one of the fastest paces.<br />
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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'".<br />
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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?<br /><br />Added Monday, July 15:<br /><a href="http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/lemond-there-can-be-spectacular-performances-without-doping" target="_blank">Greg LeMond Speaks Out for Chris Froome</a><br /><br /><a href="http://espn.go.com/olympics/trackandfield/story/_/id/9476832/us-sprinter-tyson-gay-tests-positive-race" target="_blank">Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell Among Sprinters Guilty of Doping</a><br />
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What say you?<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-49061091053419972402013-07-01T10:32:00.001-06:002013-07-01T12:44:13.153-06:00Bike Seat Selection and Elevated PSA LevelsI recently received an e-mail from a client with an excellent question. I'll let our exchange do the talking.<br />
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<b>He wrote:</b></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I have just had a physical and the only area that showed with some concern was my PSA (<i>Prostate-Specific Antigen) </i>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.</span></blockquote>
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<b>My response:</b></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">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.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">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.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">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.</span></blockquote>
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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.<br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-4890096544665833392013-06-28T17:47:00.000-06:002013-06-28T17:47:29.624-06:00Where to Watch Tour de France 2013 Online<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Many of you have unplugged the cable TV just like we have.</div>
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In my house; that makes College Football season, the Olympics, Portland Trailblazers gamedays and the first three weeks of July particularly difficult.<br>
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However; there is a solution...</div>
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<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/06/where-to-watch-tour-de-france-2013.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-7413858961398178852013-06-28T12:43:00.001-06:002013-06-28T12:51:17.835-06:00Allegro Cycling: Best Month Yet!<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzisYyIhmwOYWgVKCtnco5kn9hgDT3mMzup2DsHSSyUXRJTOZDx68F7FUH-2KzBaptTY3S8bOpT7B413qAtq63OeNfcxGVJuExgFyIdomk1WEbLeW71JDJNlKc-EyP8M9auNnFf8VlzA/s800/NewLogo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEzisYyIhmwOYWgVKCtnco5kn9hgDT3mMzup2DsHSSyUXRJTOZDx68F7FUH-2KzBaptTY3S8bOpT7B413qAtq63OeNfcxGVJuExgFyIdomk1WEbLeW71JDJNlKc-EyP8M9auNnFf8VlzA/s320/NewLogo.png" title="" width="320"></a></div>
June is coming to a close and <a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allegro Elite Cycling</a> is preparing to celebrate the BEST MONTH EVER of in it's 2 year history.<br>
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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.<br>
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So, in light of the best month in my <a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allegro's</a> history - and since it is Friday - here's a Friday Five of why you should work with <a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allegro Elite Cycling</a><br>
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<ol>
<li><b>Help on your schedule.</b> 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.</li></ol><a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/06/allegro-cycling-best-month-yet.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-62578524654181246402013-06-24T10:53:00.001-06:002013-06-24T10:53:57.631-06:00How NOT to Load your Bike on your Roof Rack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is <i>not</i> the <a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Allegro Cycling</a> approved method of loading your roof rack.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mgkkU-TRwvY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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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?<br />
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Race starts Saturday - It's Cycling's Super Bowl time again!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-54567748237312998882013-06-21T11:20:00.001-06:002013-06-21T14:13:32.864-06:00Top Tips to Avoid Cycling Injuries<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>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.</i></div>
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<i>Fortunately; I have colleagues like Mike Roberts to help bridge the gap. </i><i>Mike Roberts is a writer for <a href="http://www.prioritylegalclaims.co.uk/">Priority Legal.</a></i></div>
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<i>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 <a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/p/fitting.html" target="_blank">bike fitting</a>. Thanks for your insight, Mike.</i>
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<span style="line-height: 1.6em;">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.</span><br>
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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:<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/06/top-tips-to-avoid-cycling-injuries.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-60614285957162092312013-06-11T11:39:00.000-06:002013-06-21T14:13:56.731-06:00How to Avoid Accidents While Cycling<i><a href="https://plus.google.com/102554576935035729029?rel=author">Laura Ginn</a> 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.<br><br>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.<br><br>Thanks for contributing, Laura!</i><br>
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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.<br>
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<h2>
Don’t Ride on the Pavement</h2>
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, <br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/06/how-to-avoid-accidents-while-cycling.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-80772672085955445352013-05-31T17:08:00.000-06:002013-06-11T12:13:52.018-06:00Expanded Services at Allegro Elite Cycling<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fSVLr7g4kggCxL7dBBP-zetiYjO-nRetCjAQvcV55H0wAD-THP5GZ-FJAj29Nh__oTSNNXYlFDeofwwZHmd8CYveZHk_wzUo_7LpsamtEvNxU-ZPsvo73HFYoQ3HMktKUurb0q_MLNQ/s1600/services.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fSVLr7g4kggCxL7dBBP-zetiYjO-nRetCjAQvcV55H0wAD-THP5GZ-FJAj29Nh__oTSNNXYlFDeofwwZHmd8CYveZHk_wzUo_7LpsamtEvNxU-ZPsvo73HFYoQ3HMktKUurb0q_MLNQ/s1600/services.JPG" /></a></div>
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As the summer event season kicks off - here's some news that may be of interest to you...<br />
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<a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/p/staffpersonal-training.html" target="_blank">New services are launching at Allegro Elite Cycling.</a> In addition to expert fitting and maintenance services; I now offer<br />
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<li><b style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Personal </b><b style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Technical & Mechanical</b><b style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Support</b></li>
<li><b style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b>Event Technical & Mechanical Support</b></b></li>
<li><b style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><b>Individual Technical and Mechanical Instruction</b></b></b></li>
<li><b style="background-color: #fefdfa; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><b><b><b>Group, Club, and Team Presentations</b></b></b></b></li>
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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.<br />
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Pricing varies for these services - and in some cases there is no charge.<br />
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<a href="http://allegrocycling.blogspot.com/p/staffpersonal-training.html" target="_blank">See the new page at Allegro Elite Cycling</a> for more info or contact me with questions and to make booking arrangements.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-5503351790523135852013-05-30T14:32:00.000-06:002013-06-11T11:40:42.598-06:00The Ideal Cycling Kit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>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.</i><br>
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<i>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. </i><br>
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<i>And with that, enjoy! -Matt.</i><br>
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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?<br>
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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.<br>
<a href="http://mattmagee.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-ideal-cycling-kit.html#more">Click to continue reading... »</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9191231363574357011.post-56380151585257647732013-05-24T08:19:00.001-06:002013-06-11T12:23:41.242-06:00Danilo Di Luca out of the Giro - Positive for EPO. REALLY????<i>No, this is not a new "Blast From the Past" series I am starting - and it isn't for <a href="http://velonews.competitor.com/2013/05/news/di-luca-removed-from-giro-after-testing-positive-for-epo_288451" target="_blank">VeloNews</a> either...</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7-rqE4I3G8TBlp1iPv43o56HBC1gneXI5QVCvpxC7SWUNAwhMEAgIxBJ1_JVe-gcO09yMqBuy8W0dgrQClNzjIb6nk35fdjqtgqqHTjSqfriNL2ZOneol8EAp3xy-5cv_1rr_Ui8q08/s1600/DiLuca+Doper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7-rqE4I3G8TBlp1iPv43o56HBC1gneXI5QVCvpxC7SWUNAwhMEAgIxBJ1_JVe-gcO09yMqBuy8W0dgrQClNzjIb6nk35fdjqtgqqHTjSqfriNL2ZOneol8EAp3xy-5cv_1rr_Ui8q08/s400/DiLuca+Doper.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo: VeloNews.com</td></tr>
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<a href="http://oh%2C%20i%20get%20it%20-%20oprah%20isn%27t%20as%20influential%20in%20europe./" target="_blank">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.</a><br />
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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.<br />
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I vote for option #2...mixed with a little ignorance on the side.<br />
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Sorry for the short and blunt post - but seriously? What is it going to take?<br />
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Get the point already, guys! Clean up or get out.<br />
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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.<br />
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Now - there is a long weekend coming up: squeeze in an extra ride!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0