Zipp Looks to Educate Buyers on Counterfeits

I have well documented the bike industry's battle against counterfeit product here on the blog. (Here and here specifically, with other references throughout.)

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.

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.

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.

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.

Zipp posted some photos on their Facebook page that are helpful - not only for their products - but as a guide for what to look for on many bands.

Ride real!

Basic Tips for Cycling Safety

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...

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.

Stay visible
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.

Inspect the bike before hitting the road
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.

Obey the law
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.

Stay alert
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 click here.

Are Helmets Getting Uglier?

''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).

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.

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?

Show of hands?

What Can Richard Sherman Teach us About Cycling?

Richard Sherman's infamous post-game rant: NFL.com Video here...

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. ;)

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?

Is this a stretch? Nope, you'll soon see. Stick with me here...

Maintaining the Motivation to Exercise

"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...

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.

I've dealt with the topic of motivation before, in fact; you could consider it a cornerstone of the blog as my first post addressed the topic directly.

So, without further adieu; our latest contribution on Motivation. Enjoy.

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.

Don’t Just Spin Your Wheels: Road Safety Tips for Cyclists

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.

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!
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 personal injury lawyer Kelvin Adams recommends knowing the best ways to keep yourself safe while riding your bicycle.

​What to Wear

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.

Plan Ahead

Some places are safer for cyclists than others, so it is a good idea to plan a route before leaving home. Roadside bicycle lanes, dedicated bicycle paths and multi-use paths are the safest places to ride. Roads with a wide, unobstructed shoulder are also good.

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.

"How To" Series

There's myriad topics I have happily helped people learn to do themselves in my decade managing bike stores. This series is designed to address some of the toughest and most common. I hope this somewhat limited and unidirectional medium can allow me to help you too!

(If there is no link to the topic; check back soon - it's coming!)

How to:

• Wear bike shorts
• Lock your bike properly
• Choose a new bike helmet
• Choose new bike shoes
• Choose the right clipless pedal
• Change a flat tire
• Wrap handlebar tape

Cyclocross Tips Series

I get a lot of traffic looking for info on Cyclocross. Fitting, tires, and other set up tips are among just some of the topics that bring people here.

So, with that in mind; I have compiled all of my 'cross posts in one place and will be adding more as time progresses. So - here you go: one stop shopping!

If you have questions or suggestions for a topic; leave it in the comments and I'll address it as best I can. Thanks for your loyal reading!

• How to Fit A Cyclocross Bike - From buying your first 'cross bike to dialing in the position on your current steed; here's a guide to help you along...
  
  
• Setting up Cyclocross Disc Brakes - First run with disc brakes? Underwhelmed by their performance? Start here and see if this helps.
• Tubeless Cyclocross Tire Tips - Going tubeless? Here's a guest post with some great experience and advice.
  
  
• My "Cheap" Single-Speed Cyclocross Bike - WWMB? (What Would Matt Build?) Well, this isn't my ultimate answer - but it's a start with what I could scrape together. It might inspire (or depress...) you. Check it out.
• Swiftwick Merino Socks - O.k., this may be a stretch; but trust me - you probably need these if you don't have them already.
• Bike Mistakes Part 1: Handlebar Position - Part of another series, but included because I see this very often on Cyclocross bikes so it may be something you're experiencing or could benefit from.
• Shimano WH-6700 Tubeless Wheel Review - A popular option for going tubeless for Cyclocross.
• The Truth about Tire Pressure - Originally written for road tires; but the same applies for 'cross.
  Faster tires come from a different end of the pressure spectrum than you might imagine...
• My Trek XO-1 CX Bike - A little closer to the ideal...
• Choosing Clipless Pedals and Shoes - If you haven't gone clipless yet on your 'cross bike or if you're considering a different system you should check this out first. A great general guide for road, 'cross, and MTB. 

Bike Maintenance Made Easier Series

Notice I said easier and not easy. 

However, for the most part the hardest thing about properly maintaining your bicycle for long life is just being diligent about doing it. It gets exponentially harder when you neglect it - only demanding more time for cleaning, lubrication, and adjustments. I hope the following posts will give you the guide and motivation you need to be on your way to a smoother, cleaner, longer-lasting bicycle and a more enjoyable ride.

Have a question? Want me to cover another topic or think I left something out? Leave a comment!

• Pre-ride Checkover - Steps to a safer, smoother, more trouble free ride
• Post-ride Checkover - Quick steps to keep your bike happier, longer
• Bike Mistakes Part 2: Chain and Gears - How to care for your drivetrain for longer life
• Bike Mistakes Part 2.5: Chain Lubrication - The #1 thing you should be doing and the right ways to do it
• Basic Home Tools You Need - What tools should you have at home to save money and keep your bike out of the shop between tune-ups

Bike Mistakes Series

Here for your easy browsing; an index of the posts I have created (and the planned posts for future publishing) on what has turned out to already be a popular topic. I hope you find all this helpful in making your bike more comfortable, run more smoothly, and last longer.

Have any suggestions? The comments section of this post is the place to leave them; so comment away!  But most importantly - enjoy.

• Bike Mistakes #1: Handlebar Position
• Bike Mistakes #2: Chain and Gears
• Bike Mistakes #2.5: Chain Lubrication
• Bike Mistakes #3: The Saddle

Tires 101 Series

...EVEN STUFF YOU PROBABLY DIDN'T WANT TO KNOW...

This series kind of came together after the fact as I realized how much complementary material I had written about bike tires. I think this is especially helpful when you have been disappointed with the tires you've been riding or just know you need something different.

As a whole; the individual posts will address much of what I cover when I talk in person with a client about their options for tires. Of course; that exchange is much more conversational and often less exhaustive because we can assess needs and narrow down the options in a hurry.  Here we don't have that luxury. But; check it out - skim the sections that don't apply to your situation - and enjoy the rest.

• Choosing the Right Road Tire - Simplifying the myriad options into categories and addressing their unique qualities and characteristics to hope to bring some clarity to the chaos!
• The Truth about Tire Pressure - Because it's not as simple as just pumping your tires up to the maximum pressure on the sidewall. (And why more is rarely better...)
• Fascinating Tire Test Results - Some surprises and some confirmations. Putting some data behind the speculation.
• Worn Tires and Flatting - Sudden chronic flatting can be caused by excessive tire wear. A quick photo guide to the most common types (all seen on one summer Saturday in the shop...)
• Tubeless Cyclocross Tire Tips - A "guest post" with some great helps on setting up wheels to run tubeless for cyclocross season.
  
  Got any lingering questions? Something you'd like to see covered in detail? Leave your idea in the comments and it may become the next in the series!