Want It Wednesday #16 - 2012 Shimano XT Chainset

I know its a bit of a contrast to my last Want It Wednesday where I claimed my desire to get a single speed bike but I stumbled across the new 2012 XT cranks which is now done in a twin ringed option rather than the usual three.

 

It's one of the nicest XT chainsets they've made in a while and would even make do if I were to use it for single speed. 

Two chainrings has always made sense to me, The smaller 'granny' ring is just two small in my mind to be of any real practical use and I find a 42t chainring just too big.  This sits well on either side of those two sizes for something that is much more usable.

This also comes in black option.  Got to say the whole 2012 XT range looks very well designed, and I was pushed to narrow it down to one piece, I want, I want, I want it all!  I've run XT on my Kinesis for the last few years and its been brilliant stuff.  (apart from the dire shimano chains give me sram any day) But after all these years its started to complain.  The front mech gets a bit stiff and the rear mech isn't always reliable unless I lube it to death.

Its time to get saving!!!!

So who else is doing taking part today?  Well Today I'm joined by a whole group of people whos 'wants' you should go check. We've got Merry*Death,  Paul,  Lindsay,  Neil and our newest member Cervelo Girl. I'd happily recommend them all.  Click on the names to see. So go on what are you waiting for....Click, Click, Click

If you'd also like to take part in Want It Wednesday too then go to my tab on the top of the page and follow the instructions.

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That'll Do Pig, That'll Do



Well, that's it.  Two weeks to go and now all my main training for my 24 hour race is done.  My last long ride was today and apart from a few hour long rides and my regular commute to work I am now winding down and resting up.  I've allowed myself a longer taper than I'd normally do for a race but I want to be fully rested and injury free.

I'll be quite glad to finish my training to be honest, it's been a mixed four months.  I'm not sure how I got this idea to race 24 hour.  Guess I've always really admired those who go on big adventures or do things that would push a persons body to the max.  It was a passing thing on Youtube of all things that got me thinking about it.  I saw a video on the 24 hours of Exposure a unique 24 hour race in that it was for solo riders only and was very geared up for 'rookies'.  It just seemed so tempting, so by the evening I'd asked the wife who said ok.  Before I went to bed I'd entered and paid up, before I went to sleep I was already regretting my decision.

I knew the training would be hard.  But in a way it isn't as hard as normal XC training where you have to do lots of interval, power and speed training on top of a good base of endurance.  This was all about the long ride.  Hours in the saddle with some fast tempo pace thrown in for interest.  Personally I hate interval training, I have a real mental block to it and can muster all manner of excuses to not do.  Long riding is really what I do anyway.  Just going a bit longer and not standing chatting was all that changed in my attitude.

Why I found this hard though, was time commitment.  I am first and foremost a dad and husband who just isn't selfish enough or prepared for the arguments of going out all day every day.  What this has invariably meant is early morning rides on my own.  I don't have friends who want to be out riding at 5:30am and I don't blame them.  It can be lonely at times though not to mention tiring, I'm usual heading home as people are getting ready to go out. I've grown this nack of now talking to myself which my prove useful in race.  Its been dark, extra cold first thing but eerily beautiful and it feels like I'm the only one out there watching the beautiful sun rise over hard frosted fields and meadows.

I have as a rider totally changed from the one I was last year.  I have lost 6.5kg in weight am now only 61kg, and so have regained my climbing prowess.  That and I now spin at a much higher cadence.  I'd become a real stomper over the years averaging around 70rpm but through training now spin closer to 90rpm meaning my legs are more efficient but ultimately I can ride longer without fatiguing my legs.  This is probably evident as after 6 hours in the saddle I am still fresh enough to play football and rugby with the kids for the rest of the afternoon.  Its a promising thing for my future race.  While I don't feel I've had enough time to train (two more months would have been better) and so won't place highly, I will survive. 

Sadly my last month of training has not been so good as its been hampered by regular minor injuries, which has meant me backing off my training load.  I am now in better condition but of course a niggling doubt has crept into my head of whether I've done enough.  But I guess that question will always be there.  I could have trained more but then I could have made the injuries worse.  I thought it better to start my race a little less fit but ultimately in one peice and with a greater chance of finishing.

I've done all I can do now training wise.  I have devised my plan for eating drinking.  My bike is running and working well, I've got lights for 8 hours of darkness and a nice big tent. I can sit on job well done.  That'll do pig.  That'll do.

Time to race...........

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Ta da! Thanks a Bunch Stella McCartney

If you want something stylish doing then for gods sake don't ask a designer to do it.  Or more specifically don't ask Stella McCartney to design sportswear for the British Olympic sports team.  Oh damn it too late.

The famed designer unveiled her ideas for Britain’s Olympians on Thursday with uniforms that made imaginative use of the union jack . The designs, a closely guarded secret for months, were shown at the Tower of London in a gala event that combined fashion’s razzle-dazzle with the star quality of top Olympic competitors.  Out with rail-thin fashion models, in with real Olympic stars.

This obviously was a large challenge and judging by the reaction that it has received, a total flop.  So many people of argued and complained about its lack of britishness, particularly the lack of red (an important part) within the flag.  I really am not impressed, and I just can't believe this has been allowed.  Well actually I can.  I can imagine the scenario.

Olympic Committee "Hey, lets hire a famous British designer to make our British sports kit" (met with experts nodding in agreement)
pay said famous designer god knows how much and send her on merry way to draw.
Stella: "Ta da here's what I could be bothered to design in between my real job"
Olympic Committee member 1: "oh.....it's err.........
Olympic Committee member 2 ".......nice........
OC1 "oh sh*t what have we done........."
OC2 "it's to late now there's only four months to go.  We'll be laughed at"
Stella "thanks for the money suckers"
skips off merrily

Yep, good call people. well done.  Why in gods name couldn't you have gone to, say and art design college and asked the students there to design a series of kits.  You know give them some incentive of money for first prize, choosing the best kit by putting it to a vote and hey presto you'd more than likely end up with something we all like.  Oh, and saved yourself a fortune in the process. Duh.

But no we end up with something that has subdued our colours for the sake of being arty and 'designer'  Seriously would the Americans stand for it if they made the red stripes a subdued blue and the white stripes and stars grey? Just a note to my American readers your kit is also been designed by a famous designer.  Ralph Lauren I believe.  Fingers crossed he's better than Stella.



Here Sir Chris Hoy is wearing the US postal kit......oh no wait that's the Olympic Kit.  Sorry my mistake.  I've heard comment that he looks like he's wearing a bib. *Sigh*.

Now don't get me wrong, it is fairly smart but it just doesn't represent our nation.  Oh well.  Lets just hope it not a sign of future disasters for the games.......anyone know if the stadium is built yet?

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Bloggers Bikes!

I have on my blog a page called Bloggers Bikes.  Its not new, in fact its been there since I started my blog last year.  My bike has been sitting there very lonely all this time and I've just not got around to giving this page the attention it deserves.

Now I know that all you real cyclists out there love your bike(s).  Some of you clean polish and nurture them like they were your own children and love others to take notice of them.  Well this page has been created for just this reason.  You can put them on this Gallery.  I don't care whether its your best race bike, commute bike, battered rig or even an on going project.  If you submit your photo I'll ensure that your name is linked to your blog site so others can get to know you a bit more.

All you have to do is send me an email with a picture and any stats you'd liked mentioned (weight, parts etc) to jezandu@hotmail.co.uk

Just like to thank Cervelo Girl for starting the ball rolling and whose bikes I'm now proudly showing off so go check them out!!

Jez

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Want It Wednesday #15 - The Single Life

Hello Want It Wednesday partiers (and those who'd like a go!) This week I may have been more cryptic with my title so lets see if these pictures help you get an idea........

On-One Carbon XC Whippet

Kinesis Decade Virsa Prestige

Getting the idea yet?

 

 

Ok, Ok you get the idea......Singlespeed bikes.  Its an odd thing but I have just got the urge to ditch all my gears and go singlespeed.  I hear my calling so to speak.  Its high time that I got myself a new frame as my current one is feeling its age, and I've been taking things into consideration that I've never had to contemplate before..........whether it has a swappable rear drop out.  The two frames above do, but this is just a choice selection of the bikes I could possibly go with.

With a swappable hanger I could change my bike from geared and if I desire to single speed without the need for a tensioner.

Perhaps I'm going mad, but I also want to go fully rigid too.  Light and simple bike.  Just pure riding.  Sounds ideal to me!

So who else has a bikie desire for this Wednesday?  I am joined by Paul and Neil who you can check out by clicking on their names to see their great blogs.

If you want to take part then please go to my tab marked 'Want It Wednesday' and follow the instructions.

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Want It Wednesday - Reminder!!!!

Hi everyone who likes to take part in my Linky party and anyone considering taking part! 

Just a reminder that due to it being a leap year and last Wednesday being the 29th February,  Want It Wednesday will not take place this week.  You have a weeks extra grace and so posting will resume next week making it the normal second Wednesday of the month.......hopefully that makes some sense!

I'd just like to say a big thank you for all those that take part in this, its great to get people together in a shared way.  I'd particularly like to say a big thanks to Paul and his blog for supporting from the near beginning and I think only missing out on one Wednesday since he started.  Thank you.

If anyone is thinking of taking part then please just do it.  Its not hard and you don't even have to do it all the time.  Just go to my 'Want It Wednesday' tab and follow the instructions.  There are some previous posts on their to give you an idea of what can be used.

Jez

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Grumpy Bastard Strikes Again.

Some of my more astute readers will remember my grumblings of a cyclists that do not wave back when out on their bikes and my ever increased grumblings with this one guy who continues to blank me (Previous post here). A man I affectionately call 'Grumpy Bastard'.

Things haven't really moved on much and despite my loud over exaggerated shouts of MORNING! and waving like an over active idiot (nearly resulting in my disastrous departure from the road I was on), grumpy bastard continues to look dead ahead unflinching. Damn you!!

On Friday, whilst working at my library as the day was coming to an end, a gentleman who I have served a many a time came into the library. He always asks for the same books to be restamped, and as far as I know he's had them for many months now. Conversation is very limited the only thing I know is that he rides a bike and previous attempts at striking a conversation on this point have failed. Totally.

However, it was while serving him that something struck me on this day. His cycle top. As I finished serving him my mind just went into over drive. Have you ever had something dawn on you? That slow realisation and pieces of puzzle just fit together? A eureka moment I think you could call it.

THAT TOP. Oh my god that top...........I've seen that before......where.......going past me on the mornings........black trousers.............no it can't be................Grumpy Bastard??!!

As he went outside he went to his bike, put his helmet on and dark glasses and got on to ride away. Oh my god its IS grumpy bastard!!!

Elated at my discovery I went back to my computer and now actually know the mans name. Funny World. Funnier still is that today I passed him in the town I work in and he smiled at me! Horray! I nearly fell off again!

So now I guess I'll have to change his name to.........'not so grumpy person'......?

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David Millar - Racing Through The Dark - Book Review

I'll start this review of this book I recently read with a bit of honesty.  I have never been a fan of David Millar.  I could go further and say I've never liked him.  Normally, I am very supportive of our British riders, viewing them as the under dogs in a competitive domain that we never until recently dominated.  Yet Millar was someone I just couldn't warm to, at least not in seen interviews or stories I'd heard about him.  He came across as arrogant, a pre Madonna, a young man with fame going to his head, and off the rails.   His exile from the sport for taking EPO came of no surprise to me and I was pleased that he was removed from the sport and I didn't welcome his return with open arms.  I know I wasn't alone.

Its is probably strange then that I should even read this autobiography.  This just so happened to come onto my desk at my library and I couldn't resist it, I'm always a sucker for stories on doping in cycling.   Perhaps this book could change my own opinion of him.

David Millars book starts a long way from the excitement, glitz and glamour of Tour races and wealthy life style but in Biarritz police cell.  Millar stands stripped of his dignity, his dream career and left with doubt and unknowing of his future as a caught out cycle EPO abuser.

The book then takes us back in time to Davids early life, from here it continues on a moral journey with a battle within not only cycling, but also himself and those around him.  This takes him through a period in cycling history when the usage of EPO was rife and how eventually he would become involved by an unforgiving cyle and money world.

It is a powerful and gripping read and gives a great insight to the secrative world of cycling.  Millar is totally frank about the people he meets, quick to praise strong friendships and those who stood by him, briefly mentioning Lance Armstrong and Bradley Wiggins.

The later part of the book deals more with his come back to sport a seamingly changed man and his now strong stance against drugs within cycling.

This is certainly a book every cyclist should read, and has changed my mind about the real David Millar.  Certainly the person he was is hard to like, but as I learnt more from him about himself and cycling the more my opinions were changed.  By the end of the book Millar not only makes me like him but actually reforms my faith in cycling as a whole.  That yes, there are those that cheat but in racing you can win clean, you can even race a whole tour clean, and that there are now teams through in house doping that are the new future for the sport.  A cleaner sport. And I for one couldn't welcome that more.



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Want It Wednesday #14 - Cotic Soul

Quite simply my Want It Wednesday has boiled down to my desire for a new bike frame.  I figured that I wanted a full sus but have started to realise that they are just too expensive for me right now and I still don't think I can be chewed with the extra maintenance they need.

I had am still considering 29ers instead but I keep coming back to this little beauty.  The Cotic Soul. A 853 Reynold steel frame weighing in at 4.4lbs.  It's probably a bit old school of me to be looking at steel but this metal is still perfect material for riding and last for years without loosing its feel like alloy frames do.  They have much cleaner lines too and the welds are tiny and just gorgeous.  This is a versatile little thing though and can take a fork from 100mm to 140mm giving a choice of xc race bike or trail bike fun.  The frame alone retails in at £480 and comes in black or orange.

All I have to do now is decide which colour........ 

For more information for the Soul and other bikes go to www.cotic.co.uk

 "One of the best steel hardtail frames: well designed and thoroughly practical for hard and fast trail riding" - BikeRadar

Images from www.cotic.co.uk

What are you wanting at the moment then?

This week I am joined by Paul, Lindsay and Merry*Death who you can see by clicking on their names and visiting their excellent blogs.

If you too would like to join in the fun too, then you can by going to the tab marked 'want it wednesday' and following the instructions

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Danny Hart - Fort William

Weekend video time and here is a bit showing the ever talented Danny Hart on a practise downhill run at Fort William.  His ability to react at these speeds is just amazing. Where most average riders would be slowly meandering down the course carefully picking out the lines between the rocks, he just seems to float over them and make the course seem mildly bumpy.  I assure you, Fort William is as tough a course as you are ever likely to try out. The First clip show some of the pros during practise and gives an idea of the course

This second clip buts you in Danny's shoes and shows just how fast he really is and why he is World Champion

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I'm A Cyclist - Why I Don't And Won't Pay Road Tax

In light of nearly being run off my bike yet again from someone not giving way and looking properly coming out of a junction, I am reminded of the old 'ger off the road you don't pay road tax' argument.  I've no doubt many of you have come across this argument even if its not in a heated debate on the road side.  Motorist seem to stick to this old aged argument, clinging on because they really can't find any other justified way for them ruling the road.  I've heard it too many times, and I'm fed up of the ignorance so its time to set them right.

First lets start with with the term "road tax".  This is something that has not existed since the 1930s, what drivers do pay however is Vehicle Excise Duty, which is more commonly called road tax but is not really the same thing.

There are at least three valid points for cyclists not paying road tax so you may like to remember these for future arguments!

1) Vehicle Excise Duty is based on vehicle emissions.  Cyclists produce zero emissions and so there for do not pay tax.  Or better, they pay zero tax for producing zero emissions.

2)  According to a poll made by the British Cycling 87% of cyclists are also regular car drivers and so pay the same vehicle and fuel duties as other road users.

3) Vehicle Excise Duty tax doesn't always go towards road costs.  In fact it goes into one big pot along with income, council and other direct and direct taxes which cyclists also pay for which is used for the up keep of of public services including hospitals, transport, and roads.

Of course this argument is only from a tax perspective.  But as this seems to be the main gripe with drivers this should make matters more clear for you about why you have the same rights on the road.

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#13 Want It Wednesday - Morvelo Jeresy

Yesterday was a bit of a disaster really.  Not only do I find out that my job is at risk but then the zip on cycle tights breaks so now I've got a large hole up the back of my calves just in time for the temperatures to plummet below zero.  Obviously the job bit is more serious, but I get damn annoyed when something breaks particularly something that is still needed and is going to cost me extra money.

To be honest the Endura tights that I've owned have been on the way out anyway, but I was hopeful to get one more winter out of them.  The zip on the back of the left leg was no longer staying closed and would come undone during the ride.  It was only my overshoes that were keeping it secure and draught free.  I always found them on odd fit for me too.  My left ankle seems to be bigger than  right and I always had a wrestle getting them on right. Last night I had to buy some more so went to my favourite website shops chainreaction and wiggle and sorted myself a pair.

Now I could have put these as my 'Want' for this week but feel cheated as they are more of a need.  However, whilst looking at clothes I found myself liking....ok wanting cycle Jerseys.  There are some really cool ones out there.  One particular manufacturer I like is Morvelo.  This might be because they make one for the Kinesis team kit.  That's the make of my bike. 

Yet I know there is one Jersey they make which is a limited edition.  In fact so limited that in order to own one you have to win it.  I'm talking about the Morvelo Rookie Jersey which to get you have to win the UK and European 24 hour race on your first attempt.  Its the race I'm doing in April.  Chances are I won't get near to owning it.  But I can but 'want' for it and maybe that'll be incentive enough!



So thats me for this wednesday.  What's your 'Want'?  To join in the party just go to the tab 'want it wedensaday' and follow the instructions.

I'm joined this week by Paul and Neil and also a new member to the linky party Merry*death all of which you should see what they are wanting this week and have a nosey around their great blogs.  Just click on their names to go to the linked blogs.

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The Times Cities Fit For Cycling

Some of the more astute of you or those that follow me on twitter will be aware of my recent pledge to the Times new cycle safe campaign - Cities Fit For Cycling.  In the first half of 2011 there was a 12% increase over previous years before with 1,850 deaths or serious injuries involving cyclists. 27,000 have been injured or killed in the last ten years.

Recently, action and protests have taken place to increase awareness of the issues regarding cyclists safety, particularly in London where there has been an increase in commuters who use their bikes to get to work. Great ideas and work can be seen on Ibikelondons blog which is well worth a look and addresses many of the problems that cyclists face on a day to day basis.

As a regular commuter and one who has done so for many years in rural and in city areas, this is a campaign I warmly welcome.  Its one I implore any person or cyclist to take note of and show their support for. 

The Times newspaper recently found itself involved in the debate for safer cycling when one of its own journalists was hit metres away from work.  Mary Bowers was hit by a lorry on the 3rd November and has remained stable but in coma since.  Rather than letting her become another tragic statistic the Times have launched their campaign which you can read daily.  This has gained much backing from Professional Cyclists like Mark Cavendish Sir Chris Hoy, Bradley Wiggins, Rebbca Romero and Nicole Cooke

The Times has launched a public campaign and 8-point manifesto calling for cities to be made fit for cyclists:

1. Trucks entering a city centre should be required by law to fit sensors, audible truck-turning alarms, extra mirrors and safety bars to stop cyclists being thrown under the wheels.
2. The 500 most dangerous road junctions must be identified, redesigned or fitted with priority traffic lights for cyclists and Trixi mirrors that allow lorry drivers to see cyclists on their near-side.
3. A national audit of cycling to find out how many people cycle in Britain and how cyclists are killed or injured should be held to underpin effective cycle safety.
4. Two per cent of the Highways Agency budget should be earmarked for next generation cycle routes, providing £100 million a year towards world-class cycling infrastructure. Each year cities should be graded on the quality of cycling provision.
5. The training of cyclists and drivers must improve and cycle safety should become a core part of the driving test.
6. 20mph should become the default speed limit in residential areas where there are no cycle lanes.
7. Businesses should be invited to sponsor cycleways and cycling super-highways, mirroring the Barclays-backed bicycle hire scheme in London.
8. Every city, even those without an elected mayor, should appoint a cycling commissioner to push home reforms.

Sadly where there is opinion there is also opposition and an article printed by the Manchester Times called for a move to ban cyclists on roads through rush hour periods.  Something which I felt was very backward in thinking.  Cars in cities are not the future.  With an ever increase amount of cars being put on the roads, the cities are now getting congested.  Fuel prices probably has contributed greatly to the increased amount of cyclists in the country and cities and with a hard up economy I for see this trend continuing.  Getting cyclists off the road is not an option.

I would agree that cyclists are also not totally blameless.  There are some bad examples of riding, some stupidly aggressive, and those that swing out at cars or cross lights on red, anger me just as much as car drivers who push past. There needs to be some education in there and it needs to be forced onto both cyclists and driver.

What the Times proposes makes sense and I think we should also continue to look to cities like Amsterdam and Coppenhagen for our influences on how to do it right.  My only gripe with this kind of comparison is that cycling abroad is much more excepted and in some like Belgium is their national sport.  In this country it's still considered a nuisance despite nearly a third of all adults in this country owning one.

If this campaign is of interest to you then please look at this link and pledge your support and you can even attach a nice button to your blog like I've got (if you need help doing this let me know).  Its time to make a difference.

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Highlights From UCI MTB World Cup

A few videos for the mountain bikers, who like me never get to see any televised coverage of the MTB World Cup races.  These three videos give highlights of the mens and womens races from rounds four five and six.

  

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Schwalbe Nobby Nic Tyres - Review

Schwalbe Nobby Nic Evo 2.25

I have been using these tyres as a front and rear combination for over a year now and thought I'd give you my opinion on them.

I've put these tyres though their paces and have tried them in various conditions now from dry dusty conditions to wet sloppy mud on rocks and roots.  They have been used for general trail use and not racing or downhill.

Before putting on the tyres my first reaction was that despite looking quite chunky with their very squared nobbles they are surprisingly light.  Not light like say Schwalbes Racing Ralphs or my previous Continental Supersonics which weighed about 100gram less per tyre.  But for a trail tyre or a marathon muncher 570g isn't that bad at all.

Getting them on the bike proved to be easy enough, folding tyres never are in my opinion, and being able to get a tyre on without busting my figures is always a bonus.  Once on they sat nicely and evenly within the rim.  You'd be surprised at the amount of tyres I've fitted to bikes that have a rise or dip in them.

On the Trails

On the trail these tyres are what its all about and I could find very little to fault with them.  They rolled surprisingly well.  Looking at them they remind me of Panaracer Fire XCs with their high square nobbles but just behave totally different.  I'd easily say they were some of the fastest I've owned considering the tread. They picked up speed quickly and effortlessly.

Cornering was also another surprise but when you consider how they are made I guess I shouldn't have been.  They are very sure footed and grip well giving great confidence without just letting go when you've got your bike leaned over.  The reason lies in the rubber on the tyre.  The top tread is made of a hard rubber for ware and speed but the sides are soft for extra grip.

In the mud these tryes cleared ok.  They never seemed to hold onto the mud giving you what effectively would be a slick tyre like some tyres Ive owned in the past.  They shed the mud quickly at speed sending great chunks up into the air.

Over rocks and roots they were solid.  Reassuringly grippy meaning I could attack wet rooty descents with more confidence than previous tyres that I've owned. 

In conclusion these tryes are one of those rare breeds that seem to do everything well.  Granted there are lighter faster rolling tyres but not many that also have the great grip and will give you the same confidence.

There are some negative points that I shall draw your attention to and ones I've found other users mention.  The sidewalls are quite flimsy, with riders reporting tearing them with ease.  This being the case it is important to run the tyres with the recommended pressures in them to ensure this weakness is not exposed.  As yet I've no problems with this issue, but there are a number that have so it can't be ignored.

At £40 a tyre they are expensive and if used on the roads lots will wear down quite quickly.  But you are paying for a good quality tyre.  The question in my mind remains not should I buy them but do I get these or the Rocket Rons which are also excellent tyre by Schwalbe which have a smaller tread but by all accounts are just as good but suffer from wearing issues as they are very soft.

Previous Tyres Used

WTB Velociraptors 2.1
IRC Mythos 1.95
Specialised Hardrocks 2.1
Panaracer Fire XC 2.1
Continental Explorers 2.1
Continental Supersonics 2.1

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Sh*t Cyclists Say

This is doing the rounds at the moment but is funny none the less.

Wow we are dull!!.............and before you think this kinda crap comes from just roadies then think again!



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Want It Wednesday #12 - Kurt Kinetic Rock & Roll

I've been spending a smaller portion of my training this year on my turbo trainer than I've had to in previous years.  This is probably thanks to the milder weather and the as yet lack of snow (thankfully!).  However, my indoor trainer is still a crucial tool and has over the years seen some fair abuse.  It's over ten years old now and still working well, the only real give away to its years of use comes from the grove shape that has formed in the metal roller.

It'll probably keep on working for a good few more years but thats not stopped me looking at some new turbo trainers.  I'd like a new torture machine please!

So you know what I want?  This.

This is a Kurt Kinetic Rock and Roll. It retails for around £450.  Its not a new invention as its been available to buy for a few years now, but remains one of the most unique trainers on the market.  What make it so different is it mimics the movements that you make when riding your bike.  No longer is your bike held in a static upright position but can be swung from side to side, just like when you are giving some effort during a climb.

Reviews on the product on the whole are very positive, with many saying that its a sturdy and well crafted piece of kit.  For a better look and overall review see this little video below.

So there you go.  That is my Want for this fortnight.  What is yours?  To join in, go to the tab labelled Want It Wednesday and follow the instructions and see who else takes part in the party!

This week I am enjoyed by Paul and Neil whos great blogs and 'Wants' you can see by clicking on their names.  Cheers fo joining guys! We are also joined by a another new member Lindsay. Thanks for taking part :)

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Must Think Positive Thoughts

"For a man to conquer himself is the first and noblest of all victories"

or so Plato says.  Just recently that has become my swan song whilst training, embracing the hurt and tiredness that only riding my bike nearly every day can bring.  I seem to be getting more used to it now, the first few weeks where the hardest. 

I never really wanted to turn my blog into a training dairy, there are plenty of those out there, but I thought I'd let you know how things have been going.

As you can see, I don't hold to stats and figures.  I don't have a mile counter on what I've conquered so far, or how many hours I've spent in my saddle.  I know roughly in my head but I try not to become a slave to it.  I've tried this kind of training before, writing down my morning heart rate how I feel, what training time I've done etc.  Only to become a slave to facts and figures then getting demoralised when I don't get those exact planned minutes on the bike.  For me training diaries are like trying to keep a new years resolution.  It all starts well but a couple of months in falls by the way side.

I still have my set short term goals and they are going well, that is all the motivation I need.  I like to see where I'm going not leave an analysis trail for later reading.  I'd only laugh at my efforts.  The only goals I seem to be failing on is my weight.  How hard is it to loose weight?  I've been so good during the weeks and have all but eliminated eating junk food such as crisps, cake and biscuits.  Sorry but chocolate remains on my diet but then I don't think the wife could cope with my moods without!

The weather hasn't stopped my training at all which is good.  Even the mornings that its gone below minus five degrees.  That was one cold ride.  I wasn't that bad with all my layers on but I had nothing to drink for a few hours as my camelbak froze up ( manged a bite of ice) and the front of my bars, overshoes gloves had a nice layer of frost on them by the time I'd finished!  Epic stuff.

One thing though is that doubt has started to creep its way into my head.  Can I really do a 24 hour race.  Am I just being a fool here.  After only three hours of road and my elbow and wrists were aching.  It made me wonder if they could cope with the pounding over a longer duration.  I'm hoping that its just the cold weather playing havoc. 

Must think positive thoughts.  Must think positive thoughts........

Anyway I'm sorry for the not too thrilling training entry but I'll be back next week with more stuff to cover.  Happy riding to then folks!

Coming up

Want It Wednesday

Scwalbe Nobby Nic tyre review

Exposure Maxx D light review

Racing Nutrition for 24 hour racing

Glentress



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Want It Wednesday #11 - Sufferfest

Hi folks!!  Its Want It Wednesday linky time!! 

Well as my followers will be aware I am currently training for a 24 hour Solo Mtb race.  The UK and European Championships to make it sound more posh.  As such I've been spending more time on my bike but that's also meant more time on my Turbo Trainer.  Ah the dreaded indoor torture machine, god love it. 

Some may remember that I had found some way of getting over the boredom by watching You Tube videos of mtb races from a first person perspective. But now I've been introduced to something even better.  In a word.  Sufferfest.  For those not in the know this is a company who make usually hour long videos that take on various strains of effort.  You take part in a race and the screen prompts you on what you need to be doing.  They are supposed to be hard.  Sounds perfect.  They are around £10 per video and vary in intensity but all will give you a good work out.  In fact I was so taken by this I've bought one and intend to use it from tonight. I went for The Hunted which is more suitable for my training at the moment.  Wish me luck and if no one from hears from me, they my find me flopped over my handle bars.
If you would like to look at these for yourself then follow the link here.


You too could join in with the Want It Wednesday Linky all you have to do is go to the page tab marked Want It Wednesday and follow the instructions.

Other Bloggers taking part this week include Neil whos Want you can see here

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Cycle & Blog Etiquette - Grumpy Bastard

Well I'm late back to this but Happy New Year to my wonderful reader(s).  Hope you've had a great festive or holiday period.  I know mines been great and the kids have really loved it but now the decorations are down and some normality and routine to my life has returned.

So its back to the blogging and I'm going to have to apologise but I'm going to start this year on a bit of a grumble.  (actually I've been grumbling about this since before the holidays but have only just got around to it!)

Let me say first that the one thing I love about our cycling world is its diversity.  The sport is a mish mash of all manner of styles of bikes from road to mountain bikes, downhill bikes, commuting, bmx, childrens bikes etc.  We all have something in common though, and that is getting out from the entrapment's of our lives and enjoying the freedom on two wheels.  The riders I have had the pleasure of meeting of been equally diverse but whose love and passion has always made them so endearing.  They are often so warm and welcoming.

Yet there is one person in my cycle world that has started to grate on me.  Most mornings I cycle to work I pass cyclists on the opposite side of the rode who I'll politely wave too or give a generous nod if I'm using my brakes.  On the whole I will get some kind of response.......but not from this one person.  The one person who I see regularly on his road commuting bike plodding away.  I'm not sure what it is but he will not acknowledge that I am there.  I have began to nick name him 'Grumpy Bastard'  It's amazing to think that we are both out there doing the same thing so whats his problem?

I have come across some weird predigious before amongst cyclists.  The big one being between roadies and mtbers.  Its like a racial disliking, I've been on my mountain bike and been blanked by steely 1000 yard stared roadies yet go out on my own road bike and they will acknowledge me.  That's happened the other way around too.  Its petty and stupid.  Are you petty and stupid Grumpy Bastard ?

The worse are what I shall call the non enthusiasts.  You know the ones.  Baggy top, jeans or tracksuits, no helmet, cheap bike.  Now I'm not going to be snobby about them as they make up a large percentage of cyclists out there.  They aren't though aware of this cycle etiquette that we show fellow cyclists and I always try some so sort of greeting in the hope that they too will learn and pass on the cycle love.  There is certainly no love with Grumpy Bastard. 

You know what.  I've come across this same problem with blogging.  We are all out there writing about our bikes and love of what we do and our adventures.  Its a bit egocentric but on the whole its also communal.  Or its supposed to be.  We read each others blogs and may even comment on each others blogs, and even better follow each other to maintain friendships.  Yet time and time again this kind of etiquette is not followed.  I don't expect someone to look at my blog and instantly want to follow it.  But it grates when you constantly comment on others and get nothing back from them.  Are they my equivalent of Grumpy Bastard? 

Sadly the people that will be (hopefully) reading this are already regular readers and followers but I bet you have found similar problems with these issues.  If you look into the world of bloggers who knit and sew and create things its so different.  There are loads of linky parties and advice sites, competitions, give aways and generally it is more friendly.  Is it because it the writers of these blogs are primarily women and that they can create a more communal blogashpere?

Ive tried with my own linky party to join the world of cyclists in a similar way but there is something lacking in the cyclists blogasphere.  Its the equivalent of that wave or greeting when out on your bike.  Please don't be like Grumpy Bastard.

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A Year Comes To An End

Well I've just witnessed Mark Cavendish winning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.  A big deal really for him but an even bigger one for cycling as it is often over shadowed by the bigger media sports.  It perhaps shows how much his success as well as others has brought cycling more into the fore front.

I think it'll make for a good Christmas Present for him.  Talking of which Christmas looms which has meant much wrapping of presents and the usual mad plannings that go with family Christmas time.  The kids present pile seems to get bigger every year.  I'll have a few days off from training with some long rides put in while I can during the holiday period but I will not be writing my blog till the new year.

So with that, I'd like to wish all my faithful readers a very merry Christmas and a great 2012 in whatever you do.  Hope Santa brings some nice bike bits for you all!!

PS.  Want It Wednesday will return on January 11th so have a break from it till then if you like :)

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Want It Wednesday #3 - DT Swiss XCR 1150

I like light things. I like light bike things.  I love these!!  Dear very rich santa please could you get me some....pleasey cheese......no.....aw well it'll just have to remain a dream item.  This Wheelset is a DT Swiss XCR 1150.  The number denotes its weight.  Thats a ridiulous weight for a mtb wheel.  Seriously light.  Probably not one to keep as an all day pair more a race thing.  I'd break down and weep if I broke one of these!!
Loved to tell you the price but I can't even find them online at the moment.  The rims alone are about £300 pounds so I'm gussing not cheap.  Over a grand I'd guess!

If you'd like to see other blogs want it wednesdays that go to my 'Want It Wednesday'  pages to view Pauls and Charlies.  If you want to join in too (and its all fun) then please just fill in the magic linky box!

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.8

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Want It Wednesday #10 - Assos Chamois Cream

Hello bloggers.  Sorry I seem to have been neglecting my blog of late but I've got my head in the clouds and with Christmas coming I've just been very busy.  I've got quite a few topics in my head that I want to cover too but just haven't had the time or truthfully the will to do so.
As an update to my training for the UK24 race, things have been going well.  The windy weather has been making things tough going on the road but so far no snow has fallen so I can't complain.  I'm currently doing my training in blocks, with Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday a mix of hour long training sessions and trail running.  Friday is recovery day on the bike then on Saturday I've been doing a high intensity trail run then on the Sunday a long ride out.

Its only Mondays that I get a proper rest, and apart from feeling more tired in the evening and having more tired legs than I've grown used, I'm feeling good in myself.

My weight loss isn't so good as I've gained weight but I have a feeling that will come from muscle gain and hopefully that will mean fat will soon burn off quickly.

Anyway my Want It Wednesday this week is I'm afraid to say not very exciting but still something I want......or rather need Chamois Cream!!  Stop sniggering in the back there!!!  I've never really had need for the stuff so I'm still exploring my options.  But if I'm to stay in my saddle for 24 hours I'd be mad to ride without it!  Also with longer rides ahead of me there will be plenty of time for experimentation.  This cream by Assos is supposed to be good stuff from what reviews have said but I'd be interested to hear from you as this isn't an area I'm knowledgeable on.

So there you go.  Not my usual bike lusting object but my want it list is versatile if nothing else.  So what are you wanting?  Something that you hope Santa might bring you for your biking needs?  Something for future bike events or rides?  If so tell people about them and join in my Want It Wednesday linky party so others know you are taking part and can join in too.  The more the better it works.  For more information see my Want It Wednesday page (see tabs)

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It's Training Time!!!!!

Well that's it.  I went ahead and have entered my first 24 hour solo mtb race.  My finger twitched on the button to apply long enough but now I've made the commitment and in exactly 4 months time I will be readying myself for the challenge of my life.

I'm feeling really excited about this mixed with the feeling of nervousness and a tad sick!!  It's hard to get my head around what I'm expecting my body to do.  I have in mind to do around 170 miles which is a hard target.  Not a winning standard but my aim isn't to win.  My victory will come in completing it.  I'd still not want to come last so I'm going to have to train well and consistently.

So training is now underway, and already I notice how much I've let my body slip over the year.  Random long ride outs just isn't enough to transform or hold my fitness so that is the first part to sort when dealing with my training.  Like a lot of people, training time is restricted due to work and family so I will be looking at training most days during the week for probably only an hour or so to begin with.  Weather isn't helping right now to getting out in the evenings so I'm hoping consistency will push my fitness rather than a couple of long rides in the week.  My Saturdays will be the day for interval training followed by the Sunday which will be my long ride.

My long term goals is obviously to compete in the 24 hour race and also loose 20lbs in weight.  This will be the first time I've had to loose weight to compete so that'll be interesting, my targets will be around 5lbs a month in weight loss although realistically with Christmas the first month my not go to plan and so more will have to be lost the months after.  I'm a weak man when it comes to chocolate!!

I've now started writing down things that I will need to take with me to the race most of it centring around what to eat and drink.  I think I will be using bottles so I can monitor my drinking better and do one lap with carbs in it and the next with water and electrolytes in it.  I've worked out that with each lap I'd be burning off about 800 calories.  This I have to try and sustain per lap or at least eat on my quick breaks between my two lap stops (this plan could all fall apart!)  I've worked out that if I raced the whole thing I'd burn over 8000 calories, or 3 days worth of food!  Still not sure what foods are going to get those calories but I have a feeling that they will centre around nuts and pasta.........not together though!!

Anyway, I'm off for a trail run tonight and going to do some core work giving me a night off from my turbo trainer.  I'll need lots of encouragement in the next few months to get me through this winter!!!

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Planning, Planning, Planning........24 hours Solo!

I have 24 hour race fever.  I am sick.  I can't think about anything else right now.  Am I ill or just mad?  I had planned on doing the Nutcracker race series this year and although I've not written this off, I have now decided to complete my ambition of riding a 24 hour race solo.  The most I've ever ridden is six hours so the prospect of being in my saddle for the majority of a full day and night is somewhat daunting.

I'm not sure whats come over me but now my ever waking thought and day dream is about doing a race solo.  So I've started researching.  The first thing was looking for a race venue.  I wanted something near by so the drive wouldn't be too long (I'm hoping my wife will drop me off and pick me up!)  This left the Nutctacker 24 in July which would give me plenty of time to train most of the hard work being put in the long light hours of June.  Perfect.  But no, not perfect because I just realised the event is not going to happen.  That only leaves the 24 hours of Exposure which is the country's only Solo race.  It looks amazing, and held in the area of Newcastleton which is a great riding area.  They have great support there aiming at those who don't have the support already, lights to hire, energy drinks, and even a jersey competition for rookie entries.  Perfect. No again.  It on April 7th.  Bugger. 

I am now going to have to get some serious training underway and that means the prospect of riding through the winter which is hard at the best of times.  Is it enough time? 4 months?!?  Who knows, and this is the main reason I'm still not 100% committed.  The training is more a concern than the race itself.

Do I, Don't I?????  I had thought that if I did it I may even raise money for charity to not only feel I've done something for myself but others and give me the extra boost on those cold winter mornings.

This just leaves so many questions.  I think I've an idea on the training side, but its things like what do I eat during the race, how many calories should I be consuming.  What drinks, what energy products.  Will my arse cope with my current saddle and what do you do with chamois cream anyway?  Is my hardtail bike going to cripple me and will I ever be the same again?  Do I just go at a plodding pace and play the turtle and catch the hares later? Am I just mad?

You know there really isn't that much information out there for this kind of event unless anyone can point me in the right direction, it would save my brain going into over load.  Should I just go for it?

Help!

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