Standing on the podium at gravel nationals a year ago as of yesterday, I could have never imagined how much my relationship with biking and racing would change.

After the disappointment of moving from first place to fourth place after a big crash at mile 90 of 140 at nationals, I was determined to get back into training after a brief break off the bike to heal.

Two races and training blocks later, I stopped wanting to ride and hated the fact that I didn’t want to do something that I once loved so much. I felt like I was losing a part of myself. Out of fear, I forced myself to ride in hopes that the love would come back. Little did I know that what I really needed to do was let go.

Although I stopped training, I decided to still do the races I was signed up for, but with a far different mindset. I let go of all expectations and went in with only the goal of staying upright and having fun. Whether it was due to the power of taking myself less seriously or simply just luck, the races I took on with the new mindset went far better than the previous ones despite having far less fitness.

My season ended after completing BRW San Diego, marking a total of nine long races. Afterward, for the first time since I started cycling, I took a break and made a promise to myself that I wouldn’t start riding again until I truly wanted to. After a month and a half off the bike, I finally did.

While the cycles of burnout that led to this were in no way ideal, I’m grateful for the newfound excitement I have towards riding and everything I learned about myself in the process. In this next chapter of my cycling journey, I’m excited to prioritize fun times over fast times while hopefully uplifting people along the way.

To any of you facing burnout, I hope you’ll take a deep breath, be gentle with yourself, and open your mind to the idea of letting go. While it can be scary and overwhelming, you’ll be led back to whatever it is you’re letting go of when you’re ready if it’s meant to be.

The post From Burnout to Balance appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

The weekend of October 26th is jam-packed with two incredible and nontraditional cycling events: The Bovine Classic in Atascadero (very close to SLO!!) and Phil’s Cookie Fondo in Malibu. From beginners to seasoned riders, these events are guaranteed fun for all skill levels.

What are they? While they are two very different events, they both have a few common themes: a welcoming and fun aura, multiple courses for different skill levels, delicious food, and an atmosphere where fun times are more important than fast times.

How do they work? Described as “A seriously unserious gravel hoedown in California’s “other” wine country,” the Bovine Classic is a local mixed surface adventure ride. While there are results and prizes, this is not your typical race. The courses range from 38 to 93 miles, and only a small portion of the routes are timed and count towards the results. What does this mean? Well, even if you are the first person to cross the finish line, the results from your timed segments are what count. So enjoy the ride, make some new friends, take in the gorgeous scenery, stop at each station, and eat DELICIOUS snacks (last year there was pastries from local bakeries, fancy prosciutto, and many other outstanding goodies on top of traditional bike snacks), and hammer some short segments if you feel like it. If not, that’s ok too.

Phil’s Cookie Fondo is the “Sweetest Gran Fondo of All and the Best Day You’ll Ever Have on a Bike!” Take in the gorgeous Malibu scenery, eat cookies, meet great people (including Phil), and constantly have a smile on your face. As if cookies and Malibu aren’t incentive enough, the event is raising money for the Los Angeles Chapter of Sierra Club which is actively working to protect the Santa Monica mountains. There will also be a post-ride meal made by local celebrity chefs. If you are unfamiliar with Phil Gaimon, he’s a cookie lover, former world tour rider, and author of three incredible books that I couldn’t put down. Phil, if a miracle happens and you’re reading this for some reason, pretty please write some more books.

As a broke college student, I haven’t personally done this race, but I’m so excited to do it this year with the registration discount for college students and junior rides. Thank you to the anonymous sponsor who donated 100 free entries for riders currently enrolled in college or under 19. Young riders, there are still spots available as of today!

If you can’t decide between the two, flip a coin and know that either will be incredible. If you’re crazy like me and plan on doing both events, best of luck!!

The post A Weekend You Don’t Want To Miss appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

As someone who has done their fair share of annoyingly long rides, I often get asked “What’s the key to being on your bike for so long?” While I don’t have all of the answers, here are some key tips that I swear by. Whether you’re getting ready for your first 20+ mile ride or gearing up for your first century, I highly recommend trying the strategies listed below.

Click Here for the Spark Notes Version

Tip #1. EAT

Fueling is crucial, especially on rides over an hour or two. Forget the complex formulas; keep it simple: have a carb-rich snack every 45-60 minutes. If you struggle with solid food, try liquid calories from drink mixes. The best snacks are the ones you enjoy and want to eat.

Tip #2: Ride at a Comfortable Pace

Unless you’re a pro or just a plain masochist, don’t try to go full speed on long rides. Instead, ride in the magical Zone Two, the sweet spot for aerobic and endurance gains. If you can chat while riding, you’re probably in the right zone. Heavy breathing? You’re going too hard.

Tip #3: Ride a Bike that Fits Well

Comfort is crucial. Joint pain or discomfort on long rides usually means your bike fit is off. A proper bike fit helps you ride more efficiently and comfortably. Professional fits can be pricey but are worth it to ride pain-free. However!! Remember that you know your body best, so if a certain measurement/ fit feels right for you, go with it even if the bike fitter says otherwise.

For those of you opting for the longer version (proud of you), let’s dive in.

Tip #1. EAT

People tend not to realize how important fueling is on the bike, especially on rides over an hour or two. While the internet can go into immense detail and offer formulas to calculate exactly how much you should be eating, I like to keep it simple and go by this simple rule for training rides: Have a carbohydrate-rich snack every 45min-60min. Rule of thumb: it’s far easier to eat too little during a ride than too much, so if you want a snack sooner than 45-60 min, have one!

What should you eat on the bike? Well, there are so many options!! There are a ton of options designed specifically for exercise such as GU gels, Honey Stinger waffles, Bonk Breakers energy bars, and more. These are great for races and when you want the most optimal cycling nutrition. However, they are more expensive than non cycling-specific alternatives. If you’re a broke college student like me or not wanting to spend as much money for training ride fuel, there are plenty of more budget friendly alternatives that do the trick. Some of my go-to favorites are fruit snacks, gummy bears, cookies, or GoGo Squeeze apple sauce pouches.

Some people struggle to get down calories during rides (I’m this way in races, it sucks), so if you fall in that boat, liquid calories from drink mixes are a great way to get the fuel you need during long rides. They also offer important electrolytes and other good stuff, so drink mix is really just good all around even if you have no problem getting down nutrition during rides. Fluid is a local company with great hydration options. Their cinnamon-vanilla recovery mix is also TO DIE FOR. Personally, my go-to race hydration mix is GU Roctane Summit Tea drink mix. It is high in calories, packed with good stuff, and has a very mellow and yummy flavor that my sensitive stomach and get down.

Tip #2: Ride at a comfortable pace

Unless you’re a pro rider, attempting a multi-hour ride at top speed most likely won’t go well. The key to riding for a long time is riding at a sustainable pace. There’s this magical thing called Zone Two, which is the optimal zone (a specific range of heart rate or power outputs that correspond to different levels of exercise intensity) for aerobic and endurance gains. If you’re riding in zone two, you should be able to maintain a conversation. If you’re breathing heavily, there’s a 99.9% chance that you are riding too hard. Zone two is the key for enjoyable and beneficial long rides.

Additional Zone Two Info

For the number geeks: If you train off heart rate data, zone one two means riding between 60 to 70 percent of your maximum heart rate. For example, if I had a max heart rate of 200 bpm, zone two for me would mean riding between 120 and 140 bpm. If you train off power meter data, you probably already know what zone two means, but here’s a link just in case. Ps. if you’re reading this and have no clue what I’m talking about, don’t sweat it… pls. Often times, the best way to enjoy things is to keep it simple.

Tip #3. Ride a bike that fits well.

Comfort is key, and joint pain/discomfort on long rides is most likely due to an improper bike fit. In addition tp helping you ride more efficiently, a properly fitted bike will help make your body comfortable and mind happy. Bike fits do cost a bit of money, but they are crucial to anyone having discomfort on the bike (discomfort meaning pain in your back, knees, arms, neck, etc). Finding a good and affordable place to get a bike fit can be tricky, but we’re in luck because Humberto at Art’s Cyclery gives great and affordable bike fits.

Rule of thumb #3: Bike fitters are incredibly knowledgeable, however, you will always be the most knowledgeable about your body and how it feels. If a certain measurement or fit feels right for you, go with it even if the bike fit says otherwise.

These tips have helped me conquer many long rides, and I hope they work for you too. Happy cycling!

The post Key Tips for Riding Further on the Bike appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

Have you been missing the most honest, practical, entertaining, and occasionally funny cycling content in San Luis Obispo? Well, good news! It’s back.

Why should you listen to me?? Well… quite honestly I can’t give any great reasons, but I’ve learned a lot throughout multiple years of riding/racing and have experienced how great (and occasionally not great) the cycling community can be. From important lessons I’ve learned on and off the bike to gear reviews and things I wish I knew when I first started riding, I can promise to share my honest, raw, and unfiltered thoughts on whatever you’d like to hear about.

The post We’re Back! Official 2024 Debut appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

April 11 – 14 = FOUR DAYS OF EXCITING CYCLING!

Some of the West Coasts most exciting cycling events are encapsulated in these four days. Monterey is a beautiful setting for this. Time is running out if you are planning to stay, make your arrangements now via SeaOtterClassic.com The days are packed with rides for every level of experience. Vendors are on hand with the latest cycling needs and wants. Demonstrations and experts are available to make the most of your cycling.

THE 29TH ANNUAL SEA OTTER CLASSIC

is held at Laguna Sea Recreation area in Monterey, California. This year they anticipate nearly 10,000 professional and amateur athletes with about 70,000 fans in this celebration of cycling. For more information on all events, times and schedules, contact Jeannie@seaotterclassic.com  or call (800) 218-8411.

CAN’T MAKE IT? EXPERIENCE IT VIRTUALLY – ONLINE

digiZuk has a new set of video and 3D technologies to allow those who cannot attend to still experience the action. Along with that, VeloNews will be covering all the events and action. Check out POM – Pocket Outdoor Media, for the online podcasts. With over 300 million content views last year, they have the know-how to make this great. They specialize in cycling, triathlon and running events. See more at pocketoutdoormedia.com .

The post SEA OTTER CLASSIC 2019 appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

A friend of mine, much into his sports cars, was complaining about having to share the road with cyclists.  His argument, taxes paid by vehicle owners.  Point taken.  But what about the taxes cyclists pay as drivers and the obvious benefits.  Improved health, lack of greenhouse gasses, lower traffic impact are at the forefront we should consider.  Bicycles don’t wear roadways like trucks and large vehicles. Off-roaders may not have these problems. Maybe you want to leave comments.

 Good relations-Share the Road

What can we do to keep good relations as cyclists?   Is this a touchy subject?  I’ve been on both sides, having to go around a group of cyclists holding vehicle traffic.  Then having an inconsiderate driver almost run me off the road and there was plenty of room, just inattention.  It helps that more areas are becoming cycle friendly.  I’m out in the “boondocks” and some drivers just use these roads as a type of “autobohn”.  Fortunately the increase in cyclists out here, is having an impact.

More Roadies Means Greater Impact

More riders in city and rural areas cause greater awareness for all who use the roadways.  I’ve almost been run off the road, and know the frustration, but you learn to watch out for yourself.  New laws in our State may be helping, making vehicles pass with three feet on the side.  My friend has been venting about having to pass with so much space.  It saves injury and possibly lives.

What Can I Do?

Keep your wits about you.  Wear proper gear, helmet and visible clothing.  Ride with traffic.  In dusk, dawn and dark hours, use lights and flashers.  Observe rules of the road.  Be understanding that drivers may not see you, as aggravating as it may be.  Look for comfortable equipment that may keep you safe – http://slocyclist.com/what-gear-youll-need-to-start-cycling-right-a-beginners-guide-to-cycling-triathlon/ .  Get a good workout, ride and enjoy the overall experience; get home safe.

The post Share the Road appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

If you’re like me, there’s nothing like sharing your love of bikes with the newest generation. But, if you’re also like me, you break into a small panic at the thought of your kids hitching a ride with you without top-of-the-line protection. And, up until now, the choices for little ones under 2 have been pretty darn sparse. Which is why I was happy to see the newest innovation from Nutcase that brings MIPS protection down to the smallest of us. With the latest in helmet research suggesting that MIPS does bolster safety, it’s nice to see this feature embedded in the new Baby Nutty helmet.

Although I can’t comment on any safety ratings, since our review doesn’t cover lab tests, the fit and finish of the Baby Nutty helmet sets it above others I’ve used with my little ones.

NUTCASE BABY NUTTY HELMET REVIEW

Available in size XXS, (47-50cm), the Baby Nutty is designed for children one year of age and older and features a dynamically awesome magnetic buckle. This buckle makes sure you don’t accidentally pinch your little one as the prolific snap-style buckles are prone to do–especially when said little one is excitedly jumping around while you’re attempting to secure their helmet.

A super quick slide-on, and the helmet it buckled in a split second. In addition, padding ensures that the buckle doesn’t even come in direct contact with their chin. Very smart design.

At 293 grams (according to our own scales), the Baby Nutty helmet is very lightweight. This equalled a happy kid who didn’t want to take his helmet off even after a two-hour, tag-a-long ride.

Overall, this helmet stood up well to the everyday abuse that my toddler put it through. The straps stayed soft and adjustable despite him dribbling juice all over them. They cleaned up easily with a baby wipe (check the manufacture’s recommendation, but I pretty much just use wipes to clean up everything). The padding and shell remained durable without tears, or any damage.

The quality and attention to detail shows. Helmets off to Nutcase on this one.

FIT & ADJUSTABILITY

My son was the main tester for the Baby Nutty, and, at nearly 2 years old, the helmet still fits him quite well. Elastic bands at the back of the head allow for automatic adjustments, and a quick-swap, velcro padding let the helmet grow with your child.

The under-ear adjusters allow you to get a nice V-fit that sits comfortably (at least, my kid didn’t complain about them, so I assume they’re comfy). A short leave strap allows for a few inches of loosening without a great deal of excess hanging around–plus a band keeps it well tucked.

COVERAGE & STYLE

We tested the Baby Nutty MIPS in the Head In The Clouds design, which seemed quite appealing to both male and female testers (ie, it should work fine for even the most particular of color-conscious kids). A definite plus if you plan to use the helmet for more than one child or wish to pass it down from kid-to-kid (always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for limitations on lifespan and never, ever use the helmet after a crash as it could compromise its safety).

Of course, the coolest feature in the Nutcase line is that siblings or friends who want to match can do just that. The Baby Nutty sits below the Little Nutty in size, but allows for continuity in color and design–just in case you were worried about finding that exact match for an older sibling.

AVAILABILITY

With the Baby Nutty retailing at $49.99 (tested at $69.99 with MIPS), the 2018 collection is available now at www.nutcasehelmets.com, at your LBS, and online retailers like Amazon.

Of course, kids can pick from six colors/designs to match their personality with the Head In The Clouds version equipped with MIPS (tested). Colors include: Head in the Clouds, Happy Hearts, Petal Power, Go Green Go, Outer Space, and Color Splash.

Learn more about Nutcase helmets at their official website, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

The post Nutcase Baby Nutty Helmets Offer MIPS Protection – Review appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

The Wright Brothers did more than fly…The Van Cleve Bicycle.

Bicycles of the 1890’s had different size wheels, known as ‘high-wheelers’.  With the manufacture of the “Safety bicycle” it quickly super-ceded the dangerous high wheeler.  The high wheelers were faster but much harder to ride. This “Van Cleve bicycle” was easier than walking, more convenient than horse and buggy and provided mobility.  This opened new means of freedom which we still enjoy today.  The 1890’s saw many small bicycle manufacturers taking advantage of the new boom.  Looks to me like a resurgence is taking place.

FREEDOM AND MOBILITY

Today we are still looking for greater mobility and freedom.  The automobile is unsurpassed for distance, speed and comfort.  But it lacks something we long for.  Really looking at your surroundings, catching the things missed in a speeding car.  Are there lessons from the past to re-learn?  Post a comment, let’s hear your thoughts and ride stories.

For more about the Wright Brothers bicycle shop and production – “https://www.thehenryford.org/collections-and-research/digital-collections/card/104955″ width=”290″ height=”430″ frameborder=”0″ style=”border:0;”></iframe>

WHAT IS CUTTING EDGE TODAY

Wilbur and Orville Wright went on to make their famous contributions with flight, but it literally was the bicycle that got them off the ground (excuse the pun).  Today we have “Smart Bikes” filled with technology to make your rides physically profitable and enjoyable.  Electronic gears are making strides in performance.  New frame material make bikes stronger and lighter, so they’re faster and easily handled.  Consider reading Alter Cycles&#8217; Road Bike Offers Comfort &#038; Gravel Grinding &#8211; Route 400 Review .  Gravel bikes are making a big impact also.  The aerodynamic designs now available in all types of bikes work for comfort, speed and strength.

WHAT ABOUT WHEELS?

The Van Cleve Bicycle was innovative because of the same size wheels.  Today wheels meet a variety of needs and environment.  Look at: Is This The Future Of Hub Design? &#8211; Rotor Releases RVOLVER  and also: One Wheel for All Roads? Reynolds Has That &#038; Aero Too &#8211; Interbike 2016.  Wider tires with various tread patterns for road bikes are available for greater versatility.  With new wheels and hubs available, we’re seeing interchangeable wheels for the terrain.  This becomes a problem with brake systems.  New designs are moving away from caliber brakes so one bike can fit all types of rides.  Disc brakes are growing in popularity and many believe we’ll see them used in races all over.  The Wright Brothers never saw what great uses were coming for their new style of bicycle.

TRAINING TECHNOLOGIES

Powermeters are available in all price ranges.  Look at: 4iiii and Specialized Release S-Works Power Cranks, Claimed Lightest and Most Accurate Power Meter Available and The PowerPod Review &#8211; A Cheap Power Meter That Performs.  Indoor trainers are growing in popularity.  For more: 5 ACCESSORIES, APPS, AND TIPS THAT WILL MAKE YOU STOP HATING INDOOR TRAINER RIDES,  We’ll keep you posted on what’s new and worth your consideration.

The post The Old Compared to What’s New appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

REDD SUPER FOOD PROTEIN BARS

There are so many protein bars available, what makes this one stand out?  The caramel salted energy and this super food protein bar tastes good and hold up well on a long ride.  Our tester found a nice balance; sweet and salty, and liked the balance of taste.  His biggest request was wanting more.  These bars give that shot of energy you need when you feel “that dragging” coming on.

WHAT’S UP WITH THESE BARS?

Part protein bar, part energy bar and part multivitamin, they call these bars “Superfood”.  The are gluten free, 100% vegan and free of the stuff we’re all concerned about.  Our rider thought they held up to the ride,  gave that needed boost and tasted good.  One very nice thing is that REDD does not skimp on ingredients.  Everything they put in has a purpose and its free of refined sugar and artificial flavors.

OUR RIDER SAID… 

The bars held up nicely when I rode to work as I didn’t have time to eat before. Overall my experience with R.e.d.d. salted caramel was awesome and I wish I had more bars to use on rides to really test them with how well they would work thru an endurance ride. I will give R.e.d.d. a huge thumbs up on this creation and won’t hesitate to order more bars.  The only negative was a slight after-taste, but a drink  of water took care of it.

WANT TO CONTACT REDD FOR MORE INFO…..

Try the website: www.reddbar.com to find out all you may want to know

also see our articles: Budget Recipes: Chocolate Sunbutter Granola Energy Bars  or perhaps – Five Cold Weather Cycling Essentials; Gearing Up For Chilly Bike Rides

WELCOME – JAYHOSS is a a hardcore rider and helped us with this test.  He has lots to add as he takes long treks.  We look forward to hearing more from him,

The post REDD PROTEIN BARS appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.

How many Boa dials does it take to get you the perfectly fit cycling shoe? Well, the answer is as many as Bont feels is necessary. In this case, just one. But it’s not just the ultra-strategic Boa dial, it’s the fully wrapped cable wiring system. Turn the dial one click–feel the fit adjust all around your foot.

Sweet.

BONT HELIX CYCLING SHOE REVIEW

So what’s so new and different about these Bont’s? Well, we’ve reviewed Bont cycling shoes in the past and have always been impressed with their customizable heat-treatment process. Meaning, you literally stick these shoes in your oven, heat them til the carbon becomes malleable, and shape them around your feet (those aren’t the actual directions–make sure to follow Bont’s instructions on how to properly heat mold your shoes).

But Bont took the custom fit a bit further by adding an integrated cable wiring system that actually wraps all the way around the shoe and through the carbon chassis. In other words, the Boa dial will adjust the cable fully around your foot. Racers take note.

TECH SPECS

Weight: 226 grams (size 41, according to our scale)

Availability: Now

Price: $399

Colorways: shiny red/white, metallic blue/white, black/gold, black/white, and white/charcoal

Upper Material: Duralite Outer Skin

Stack Height: 3.6mm

Carbon: Unidirectional Monocoque Chassis

Tested: Size 41, Wide, Shiny Red/White (a very sweet color that matches well with a red/black kit)

Built for maximizing the strength to weight ratio of the shoe, the Bont Helix is ultra light and won’t give you that block-footed feeling of heavier shoes. Even when your legs are tired, these shoes still feel light and fast. Definitely stiff and hard-soled for the ultimate in power transfer.

Of course, key to the aesthetics of the overall shoe, the unidirectional carbon fiber has a pretty cool matte finish and wave points (my own, unofficial, technical term) under the arch that not only reinforces high stress areas, but also adds a pretty awesome look to the shoe as a whole.

The upper is made of an outer leather that is layered with Bont’s own proprietary material to keep the upper from stretching. Similar in strength to Kevlar (yes, Kevlar), it’s stitched and bonded to the liner–meaning it’s there and it’s staying there. This added layer means that the upper doesn’t leak watts.

Certainly, the construction of Bont’s Helix shoe is rock-solid and perfect for riders who want every gram of energy transferred directly into the pedals. With an upper that stays put, but still feels supple and comfortable, these shoes deliver in every way.

BONT HELIX REVIEW – THE VERDICT

These shoes really are top-shelf worthy, and I’m not ashamed to sing Bont’s praises here. But I did have to do a little work to get them to fit like perfection. I’m not generally a hard-soled kinda rider, and  my first ride wearing the Helix shoes did not go so well. I had some heel rub, and developed numbness in my left foot several miles in (followed by my right foot a few miles later).

But, knowing how my other Bont shoes fit so well, I went back to the oven. Two more heat treats later, and I rounded out a few areas along the arch, set the heels in perfectly, and smoothed out a hot spot.

Overall, my final bit of comfort adjustment did involve adding a light and thin insole; though, wearing a nicely padded sock also did the same trick, but I’m generally a thin sock kinda cyclist. If you’re not used to hard-soled carbon shoes, you may find a few adjustments necessary as well.

Yes, I know the added insole somewhat defeated the purpose of the closed cell memory foam padding that ensures it won’t retain moisture from sweat or wet conditions (ie it stays light and keeps the shoe’s durability from breaking down). But the upside for me was a perfectly cushioned, perfectly dialed, perfectly competitive cycling shoe.

And that’s what sets the Helix apart. Once I molded the chassis to fit me perfectly, the innovative cable wiring system really spoke to me. One click forward or back and the whole shoe adjusts–even the shoe’s volume. It’s pretty darn fool-proof.

A NOTE ON THE FIT

Cyclists with wider feet will want to take note as these were hands-down the widest shoe I’ve ever tested. Plenty of wiggle room in the toe box, for sure. As a wide-footed rider, I think I may have just hit shoe nirvana.

Aside from going with a wide-width option, I also sized up from my usual EU 40 to a 41. You’ll definitely want to check out the sizing guide before purchasing these shoes to make sure you’re not ordering a pair that’s too short.

So, yes, the Bont Helix is one of the sweetest pairs of shoes I’ve ever tested. Definitely worth the $399 price tag if you’re serious about performance without sacrificing comfort. Very light and very fast, the Helix holds its own.

Get more information at www.bontcycling.com

The post Bont Helix Review – Cycling Shoes That Fit Perfectly appeared first on SLO Cyclist | An Online Road Bicycling Magazine.