ISSUE 148 - LATE SPRING 2018
MAGAZINE
FIRST LOOK
ALAN MITO L E S S M Y T H , MO R E L EGE ND
ALSO
profiles
Wildflower 2018
legal cycling
Video Evidence
ask the coach
What to carry
gear patrol
HENTY ENDURO
event calendar 2018 recreation & race
asphalt, please
Tour de Acoma
BICYCLIST. xyz always free
Contents
Inside this issue
COLUMNS 05 In Practice
Wild West of E-Bikes A Call for Regulation Carl Lawton
07 Event Preview
Issue 148 Late Spring 2018 Designed and printed in Southern California. Read and distributed throughout the world.
REGULARS 04 Prologue 05 Analog/Digital 06 Ask the Coach 07 King's Cartoon 12 Legal Cycling 16 Lost Tech 18 event calendar
Amgen Tour of California Long Beach to Sacramento Kelley O'Toole
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08 Features
ALAN Mito Less Myth, More Legend Chris Reynolds
13 Gear Patrol
Henty Enduro Backpack Backpack hangs tight Chris Reynolds
14 Hands On
First Avenue Trike A Thorough Review Rob Templin
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16 Event Profile
14 Cover
Tour de Acoma in New Mexico A Legendary Southwest Ride John Woodson
A close look at the handmade Italian frame built by ALAN with their Mito, a full carbon road frame that runs the lug and carbon styling that ALAN became famous for, but only in paint. The frame itself is entirely high-mod carbon hand-layed in their Northern Italy production facility.. Find out more on page 8.
22 Last Page
Photo by Curtis Chen
Wildflower Experience The Woodstock of Triathlons Richard Duquette
17 Asphalt, Please
Bike Fit Revelations It's all in the Numbers Kelley O'Toole
17 BICYCLIST.xyz
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B r o ad In v e s tiga tion o f Challen g in g Your s el f, C ycling L i f e s t y le and In s pir ing S u s t ainable Tr an s por t a tion
Prologue
Late Spring 2018 MAGAZINE
ISSUE 148 - LATE SPRING 2018
EDITORIAL
Chris Reynolds | Managing Director chris@bicyclist.xyz Kelley O’Toole | Managing Editor kelley@bicyclist.xyz
SENIOR CONTRIBUTORS
Bob Becker | bob@bicyclist.xyz Rick Schultz | coach@bicyclist.xyz John Woodson | john@bicyclist.xyz Rob Templin | rob@bicyclist.xyz Carl Lawton | carl@bicyclist.xyz
ISSUE CONTRIBUTORS
Richard Duquette, Jerry King,
ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP
Chris Reynolds | Managing Director chris@bicyclist.xyz
READ/FOLLOW/LIKE
www.BICYCLIST.xyz @BICYCLISTxyz /bicyclistxyz
SUBMISSIONS & CONTACT
VITALS & DETAILS
BICYCLIST Magazine publishes stories of experience that fall under our namesake, BICYCLIST: Broad Investigation of Challenging Yourself, Cycling Lifestyle and Inspiring Sustainable Transportation. The magazine serves as an inspirational guide celebrating the arts, skills, events, and culture of the cycling life. BICYCLIST is a social enterprise promoting bicycle riding for sport, activity, and transportation. We are based in Southern California, an area that accounts for more bike shops, and active cyclists than the rest of the United States – combined. Visit us online at BICYCLIST.xyz. BICYCLIST Magazine is available in print and digital editions. Complimenting the magazine is our cycling podcast, The BICYCLIST Experience. We also maintain the BICYCLIST Friendly Shop Locater, and the BICYCLIST Event Calendar, the largest online calendar of cycling events, races and festivals in the United States, all available online at BICYCLIST.xyz. We have published a print magazine since 1994, distributing to more than 500 bike shops throughout the western US and made available free to the public. We launched our online platform in 2014, and our podcast in 2015 and now reach readers and listeners in more than 72 countries. BICYCLIST Magazine is published 10 times per year. The print edition can be found at better bike shops, coffee shops and breweries throughout major metropolitan cities west of the Rockies.
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same, we reserve the right to publish unintentional mistakes and/or factual errors which may occur on an issue basis. No responsibility is assumed by the publishers for unsolicited materials/articles/letters/advertising and all submissions will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright and/or appropriate licensing purposes subject to BICYCLIST's right to edit and comment editorially. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine reflect the opinions of their respective author’s and are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form [print or electronic] without prior consent of the publisher. Bicycling can be a dangerous sport and can lead to serious injury or death. Make it safer for everyone and obey all traffic laws, ride responsibly, use common sense, and wear a helmet.
Happy Late Spring! This is beginning to be the best time of the season for cycling and the event calendar reflects that. We've listed our events as far forward as December in the hopes that you will find an event that fits you and put it in your 2018 calendar. Our cover features the gorgeous Mito frame from the Italian brand ALAN, sent to us for testing by Velosport in Boulder, Colorado. We received the ALAN Mito shortly after arriving home from last issues’ cycling travels in Italy, and I can understand why ALAN frames have such a legacy. The craftsmanship is impeccable and built in the same shop where the company was founded, even after equipping more frames for winning World Champion cyclocross athletes than any other manufacturer. Speaking of high quality, we also have a hands-on review with Rob Templin as he continues his journey getting to know trike bikes. His review of the First Avenue trike is really informative for anyone considering adding on a wheel to their life. In anticipation for the upcoming Amgen Tour of California, Kelley gives us a primer for the 2018 edition, as well as a recap of some of the excitement from last year. The men's Stage 1 kicks off at Shoreline Drive in Long Beach and the route mirrors the Long Beach Grand Prix, held a month prior. This 11-lap circuit offers great opportunities for spectating up close, you might find a spot up front if you line up on E. Ocean Blvd. Stage replays and live coverage is available of the race on NBCSN and on nbcsportsgold.com. Rick Schultz's comprehensive article covers the tools you should bring with you on a ride along with some corresponding icons to help you get the big picture. It's a lot of information, but worth knowing. Speaking of Rick Schultz, Kelley got a chance to find out what it's like to get a professional level bike fit at Rick's garage. Rick has certainly earned his reputation for being a great bike fitter with results and he has a wide array of tools to compliment it. Be sure to check that out on the Last Page. We continue our new column 'Lost Tech' with another look at an important bicycle tool that has faded out of relevance today, but was imperative back then. The size and weight of the 'Cool Tool' is a reminder just how far we've come in tool design since the 1990's. But of course none of our lightweight, mini bike tools might not be possible if not for this invention. Though you might not need Richard Duquette's advice on how to use video evidence now, the adversaries we face on the road can lend themselves to the kind of situation where you'll need to defend your claims. In any case, the article is an overview of all the important things you should consider when using video evidence in a court of law. Duquette also brought us an event profile for the upcoming Wildflower festival that centers around an epic triathlon competition. This was a particularly notable read for me as I previously competed in the bicycle portion of the team triathlon in 2009, the 30th edition of the event. The race was memorable for me because my college buddies and I took home 7th place in the team competition. I don't remember if there was a field of 8 teams or 80. Important detail lost to the sands of time. Besides the revelation in John Woodson's article that Acoma is pronounced " ACK-uh-muh", was how riding in this monolith landscape is a special experience that us in the West are fortunate to be in reach of. This is a really special opportunity and an experience I look forward to personally enjoying. Read more about it and so much more in this 147th issue of the BICYCLIST magazine. See you on the route. Stay safe. Peace.
C hris R e ynold s
- Chris Reynolds, Editorial Director
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BICYCLIST Magazine
Analog/Digital
In Practice
The BICYCLIST Experience A Cycling Podcast To keep You Pedaling LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODES AT BICYCLIST.FM - FREE!
T
une in to our cycling podcast where the people who bring you this publication discuss the news and stories behind the scenes. We share our experiences and welcome your thoughts about our discussion. First step? Start listening at bicyclist.fm!
114 A Muddy Strade Bianche, Podium Girls in the Giro d’Italia is Not Sexist, and the Urgent Need for Safe Streets
113 113: Former SLO Mayor Decries Bicycle Infrastructure, World Tour Updates, and the NAHBS 2018 Winners, In Review
112 112: The Chain Lube Episode! Plus the Women’s WorldTour Team Bikes, and Cancellara Calls Out Institutions Of Cycling
111 111: Bike Locks, San Diego Makes Gains with Road Diet, and Marginal Changes for Men’s World Tour Bikes
110 110:Katie Compton’s Epic Perseverance, Hours vs. Miles, and Precautions for Riding Bikes with Kids
114: The annual Strade Bianche race
is muddier than usual, but even more exciting than the last. We discuss the problem with labeling events that use 'podium girls' to present awards as sexist, and finally, the ways that making streets safe is cost-effective.
113:
The former mayor of San Luis Obispo county makes some questionable choices in language when describing bicycle infrastructure in an Op-ed, and we review some of our favourite bikes from the awards at this year's North American Handmade Bicycle Show.
112:
We cover a lot about chain lubrication in this and tips on how best to lubricate before your ride(s). We also talk about recent news stories in Pro cycling including Peter Sagan's gift to the pope and Fabian Cancellara calls out cycling leadership and institutions.
111:
We cover a lot in this episode. Lance Armstrong and Tour of Flanders is in the news, Froome’s camp has a new theory about his positive results, how to not lock your bike and secure your gear, San Diego makes gains with a road diet, and the men’s 2018 team bikes for the World Tour.
110:
We start with a discussion about Cyclocross World Champion Katie Compton and her perseverance through severe asthma to become a champion. We talk about studies that show cyclists break less traffic laws than drivers, and hours versus miles in your goal setting metrics.
LISTEN AT
BICYCLIST.FM BICYCLIST.xyz
The 'Wild West' of Electric bikes A Call for regulation By Carl Lawton
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lectric bikes, or e-bikes, are governed by the CPSA (Consumer Products Safety Administration) a Federal Agency that oversees the production and operation of e-bikes throughout the country, and all 50 States. Congress amended Bill HR 727 (first enacted in 2001) to include the use of e-bikes which essentially states that e-bikes are limited by law to bikes that have pedals with a max 750W / 1HP and a top speed of no more than 20mph. In that regard e-bikes are classified as the same as bicycles that are not required to meet any vehicle standards. In other words, no license, no registration, and no insurance is required to operate e-bikes. Unfortunately, here in California we have a big safety issue regarding e-bikes because some have total disregard for the Federal Law with respect to speed limit. Different people will have different opinions as to what the top speed of an e-bike should be. Also is the fact that there are some very bad and unscrupulous bike dealers who do not care what the law is regarding e-bikes. They are in the business to make as much money as they can without any consequences to themselves by not properly informing the consumer that they must obey the law as far as top speed, wearing a helmet, and obeying all traffic laws like all motorists are required to do. Commercially made and available to the public bikes can go 45mph and some even 70, with minor modifications. These are absolutely and totally illegal for any road use in California due to their power rating far in excess of the Federal Law. These bikes can also be made also made by bolting on an e-bike kit to a standard pedal bike with very crude, and therefore very questionable, safety issues like non-existent brakes needed for safety and operation at speed with a now much heavier mass.
The Muddy Waters of California
Further compounding this Wild West e-bike situation in California is its own e-bike laws in breaking down with three levels of speed control. There are two modes of operation of an e-bike, PAS and POD. PAS refers to ‘Power Assisted’ and it energizes the motor only when the rider is pedaling and is ubiquitous for electric bikes up to the legal 20mph. POD means ‘Power On Demand’ and it works by activating a hand or thumb throttle up the legal limit. A California 'Level 3' e-bike is a PAS system capable of 28mph, that is not permitted to be throttle operated but by pedaling only. This is very confusing for anybody who gets such an e-bike because it is not allowed in a bike lane or a bike path. At 28mph (almost 30mph) it is then considered a vehicle, and therefore it must comply with vehicle laws just like a moped. To be certain of Federal Law as well as State Law, do not exceed 20mph. Though e-bikes are like a pedal bike that you ride with less effort, be cautious about excessive power and the greater speed associated with it. It’s never a good idea to ride an e-bike at high motorcycle speeds. If you want to go at those high speeds, then get a motorcycle. It is designed for those speeds, with properly designed components like more powerful brakes able to slow down a heavy bike, beefier frame and steering components. Once again these laws are there for your protection. For more info as it regards e-bike legalities in California: www. electricbike.com/california-ebike-laws/ ▲
Carl Lawton is an active cyclist who rides bikes and works for the Los Angeles Department of Transportation. The overlap of these two pursuits provides a unique perspective to learn from. You can reach Carl Lawton at carl@BICYCLIST.xyz
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ask the coach
Tools & Provisions: What Do I Carry? The essentials to handle flats, sticky situations and rough roads. ANSWERED BY RICK SCHULTZ, USA CYCLING COACH USAC CERTIFIED
I
n the simplest terms, the most important items to bring with you on a ride are your mobile phone, house and/or car keys, and a driver’s license or government issued identification card. You can carry all of this in a small plastic bag stuffed in one of your jersey pockets. Also consider carrying your insurance card, some cash and optionally a credit card.
The basic carry for any adventure by bicycle should include a phone, your house keys (you did lock the door, right?), a drivers license or state issued ID and optionally, cash or a credit card, depending on the destination and distance. Now consider that when out on the road, or on your MTB: the number 1 problem cyclists encounter is a flat tire. So, this next grouping are essentials needed to get you back onto the bike quickly. Depending on what types of roads or trails you ride, many cyclists opt for a tire sealant. If you run clinchers, you can add a sealant to both tubes, and if you run tubeless, add some to the inside of the tire. Sealant used in tubeless tires should last several months before drying out and needing to be added again. One area of concern for the tubeless is how corrosive the sealant is to the inside of the rim. Do a little research and contact the wheel manufacturer first before selecting a sealant for your tires. I have seen a certain sealant used with a certain wheel and after 6 months, the inside of the tubeless wheel was completely rusted.
Essential Provisions for flat tires and roadside repairs Spare Tube(s) - Carry at least one spare tube per 30-50 miles of trip distance. Before you head to your local bike shop to buy a spare, you'll need to know: P resta or Schrader Valve A Schrader valve won’t fit in a wheel designed for a Presta valve. Schrader valves are much are thicker than Presta and ubiquitous to automobiles. Valve Stem Length The length of the stem required will depend on the rim depth of the wheels you are riding. Tube Size It’s not a good experience when you pull out a 650C spare tube when you are riding 700C wheels. Match the tube size to your wheel size you're riding. The width of the tube is dictated by the tire. If you are running 700x25C tires, you can use either 18-25mm, 19-25mm, 19-26mm, 23-26mm or 25-28mm width tubes. Tube M aterial Tubes come in many materials, choose a material that will match your application. In general, standard butyl rubber works best for most applications. For racing on a smooth surface, use a lightweight latex tube. Self-healing and thorn-proof tubes have their place, but are comparatively heavy. If you do get a flat, roll the tube up and patch it at home. For the cost conscious, when tubes have 3 patches and you get the 4th flat, time to throw it out. HOT TIP – The valve stem hole (on the inside of the rim) on some wheels can be sharp enough to cut a tube. Take some sand paper or a small file and remove any burrs on the inside of the rim. This will ensure that your tubes won’t be cut where they insert into the valve stem hole. 6
CO2 Inf lator – I have seen two separate crashes where the cyclist had broken ribs due to a mini pump being in their back pocket. For safety, I carr y a CO2 inflator system can be purchased as a kit that is comprised of the pump head, and 1 or 2 CO2 cartridges. Make sure you read the instructions since there are both threaded and non-threaded CO2 cartridges and you will need to us the correct one with the pump head. CO2 cartridges also come in different capacities, usually 12gm, 16gm and 25gm. The smaller capacit y cartridges are usually used for road bikes while the 25gm is used for MTBs. There are lots of options out there so pick one that best meets your needs. Multi-tool w/ Chain-tool – Look for something with a variet y of hex keys, spoke wrenches and something to remove and install chain pins for your bikes chain. Pedro’s offers the RxM Multitool, a $24 wonder that does it all, including a chain tool. No more fixing a chain by pounding links in with a rock! It comes in at 163 grams and is warrantied for life. Tire Levers – You will need at least two levers to remove most tires. Tire levers are typically found in many varieties; plastic, plastic with a steel core, aluminum alloy, even carbon fiber. Avoid steel levers. They will mar aluminum and shred carbon wheels. Most plastic break easily, especially when trying to take off or put on a tight tire. Plastic levers with a steel core will also tend to break easily where the steel insert ends. The best tire lever I have ever used is also from Pedro’s, and, for the past 6 years, these are the only levers I have used. SAFETY FIRST: Always wear eye protection (sport sunglasses included) when taking off or putting on a tire in the event the lever breaks and the broken plastic hits you in the eye. Tire Boot (plus 4mm & 5mm Allen wrenches) – What happens when you run over a piece of glass or metal and get a slice in your tire? You basically have 2 options, you can use your cell phone and call for help or you can boot the tire. The best boot material I have found is plain ol' duct tape. I take both a 4mm and 5mm Allen wrench(s) and lay them back-to-back so that on one end I have the angle of the 4mm and, on the other end the angle of the 5mm. That way I can use either tool if needed. I then secure them together using duct tape. I wrap the wrenches together with at least 10 turns of the tape. This gives me plenty to use if needed. When I need to boot a tire, I can rip off the exact amount of tape to form 2-3 layers on the inside of the tire.
How to carry all of this?
As previously mentioned, carrying gear in your jersey can cause further injury in a crash. A saddle bag is the best way to ensure you'll always have what you need. I prefer Topeak bags as they have always been consistently the highest quality and last the longest. They have a full range of bags including my favorite, the Aero Wedge Pack. Sizes available are XS, S, M and L with a MSRP just under $33.▲ All of these products are available at your local bike shop. Find one near you at BICYCLIST.x yz
Coach Rick Schultz Rick specializes in coaching cyclists so that they can achieve their best. He is also a certified bike fitter and author of Bike Fit 101: Your Toolset for a Great Bike Fit He has created his own bike fitting educational processes and teaches skills and handling through his workshops. Rick also owns and operates biketestreviews.com, where he tests and evaluates products for bicycling companies.
Send your questions to coach@BICYCLIST.xyz
BICYCLIST Magazine
Event Preview
Amgen Tour of California 2018 Long Beach to Sacramento BEGINNING SUNDAY, MAY 13 AND STREAMED LIVE ON NBC SPORTS By Kelley O'Toole
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he Amgen Tour of California returns to the golden state for a week of World Tour racing, an exciting event for cyclists in Southern California and beyond. The stage race features both a men and women’s competition that finishes in the capital, Sacramento. Spectating the Amgen Tour of California is a great opportunity to see some of the World’s greatest athletes battle it out on the roads of our gorgeous state. Last year in the men’s race finish, we saw George Bennet (LottoNL-Jumbo) take home the yellow jersey in the General Classification by beating out Rafal Majka (Bora-Hansgroe) by 35 seconds. It was a nail-biting event, as Majka was holding the lead after winning the second stage in San Jose, but the superb performance by Bennett in the final stage was what brought it all home for the New Zealander. In the Sprint classification, it was no surprise to see Peter Sagan (Bora Hansgrohe) back in the green jersey for his seventh time in 8 years of competing in the race. Daniel Jaramillo eliminated Evan Huffman’s chances of taking the polka dots home for a second year by edging him out for a KOM classification win; and a brutal attack on the final day by Lachlan Morton secured his fate in the Best Young Rider classification. In a change for 2018, Long Beach hosts the open“I’m excited about the season ahead and will be ing stage for the Men’s race. working hard to make the 2018 season a hugely As the peloton moves on to successful one. The Amgen Tour of California Stage 2, and into Ventura to has always been an incredibly special race for finish in Santa Barbara, you me, and will once again be a priority in my race will see the climbers shine calendar this year in the lead-up to the Tour de with a photo-op finish at the France,” Race veteran Mark Cavendish, who with top of Gibraltar Road. Stage 30 Tour de France stage wins is approaching the 3 starts in Monterey county all-time record (34). and offers riders 6 KOM climbs before a sprint finish at the Laguna Seca Racetrack. Stage 4 is the Individual Time Trial in San Jose and Stage 5 finishes with a sprinter’s finish in Elk Grove. Stage 6 will be the last chance for the GC riders to make their move as they are faced with brutal climbs in the high altitude resort town of Lake Tahoe. Lastly, the men will finish with a criterium race in Sacramento, following the conclusion of the women’s race. The 2017 Amgen Breakaway from Heart Disease Women's Race empowered with SRAM started in the mountainous South Lake Tahoe and a criterium finish in Sacramento. The US women dominated throughout the stages, including stellar performances and wins by Megan Guarnier (Boels-Dolmans), Katie Hall (UnitedHealthCare), and Coryn Rivera (Team Sunweb). The final ranking for General Classification went to superstar from the Netherlands Anna Van Der Breggen (Boels-Dolmans). She had a great performance, following closely behind the winning USA women in the first three stages. Katie Hall took home the KOM jersey with an impressive lead of 16 points and an incredible perfor“Building up to the Tour de France with a strong mance on Stage 2 climbs performance at the Amgen Tour of California is in South Lake Tahoe. always an important goal. The race is one of This year, the Amgen my favorite competitions every year – always To u r o f C a l i f o r n i a challenging competition and such beautiful Women's Race empowscenery – and I’m excited to return and try for ered with SRAM, has been more stage wins this year!” shortened to three days, but Winner of the 2015 ToC, and 7-time ToC sprinter keeps some of the best parts jersey winner Peter Sagan. of previous years. Two flat stages sandwich the second mountain stage in South Lake Tahoe, a replica of Stage 2 of last year. This stage will feature a monster of a climb that is 8 miles in length, gains 2,600 feet, and rises an average grade of 6%. The Stage 3 circuit finish will be a fast whip through the capital city, and it’s any woman’s game in this final stage. Both Trixi Worrack (2015) and Anna Van der Breggen (2017) won their overall titles by taking sprint time bonuses on the final circuits of Sacramento. ▲
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“When I said 'old and a little rusty', i was referring to my husband. my bike is new." Jerry King is one of the most published cartoonists in America, a U.S. Army Veteran, and a graduate of Ohio State University. Go Buckeyes!
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FIRSTLOOK
AlAn Mito
LESS MYTH, MORE LEGEND
Writing by Chris Reynolds Photography by Curtis Chen 8
BICYCLIST Magazine
I
n the crossover years of the 1960's and 70's, steel bicycle frames were standard. Even if you wanted it, there was no aluminum, or titanium, let alone carbon fiber. Across the professional racing circuits, across all categories and disciplines, steel bike frames were a constant in the equation for building bikes. Propelled by innovations coming out of the military and aerospace industries, novel blends of aluminum alloys were being commercialized for private industry. Turin and Campagnolo had alloy components, but the exotic-for-the-time materials hadn't been used for frames. ALAN set to change this by constructing bicycle frames using materials not suitable for the welding technologies of the time. It was a significant stepping stone to today's carbon fiber ubiquity found in professional cycling, across all categories, and in the garages of most avid recreational riders.
Standing on the shoulders of giants
ALAN was founded by Falconi Lodovico in 1972. Prior to setting out on his own, he was a professional engineer by trade working for Torpado, one of the oldest bicycle makers in the world. With an idea and a passion for racing, he struck out on his own forming ALAN, registering a patent and naming the company as a concatenation of the first and second letters of his children's names, Alberto and Annamaria. The idea centered on developing a method for creating a strong and ridged frame using materials that are mechanically joined, rather than welded. In BICYCLIST.xyz
this case, the necessity drove the innovation. The promise of weight savings using these alloys made developing a solution a worthwhile en devour. And that solution could be found by skipping back one generation of bicycle construction methodology, lugged construction. A material is cast or sheet formed into lugs, external fittings that the various frame tubes slide into. Diamond frame bicycle construction uses four of these fittings, the seat cluster, bottom bracket shell, upper head lug and lower head lugs. The tubing material is then inserted into the lugs and joined either by brazing or welding. In brazing, another metal is introduced to the joint, solder, that under the application of heat, melts, and flows around the base metals in the joint. Upon cooling, it solidifies and bonds the base metals. In welding, there is no solder. Instead, neighboring pieces of metal are melted in an electrical process that liquefies the adjoined base metals. Once cool, the welded area is a uniform material at the molecular level.
Necessity is the MOTHER of invention
Lugged construction was the standard method for building steel bicycle frames from the late 19th century through the 1970's. Changes in steel metallurgy and welding technology increased the suitability for welding with lugged construction, to the point that it supplanted the need for lugs. The welded joints of uniform metal were so strong, that lugs became unnecessary. But for Lodovico, the idea of
ABOVE The ALAN MITO, a road cycling frame that carries the weight of handmade Italian craftsmanship and design while floating along at 1100 grams, under 1470 grams including the fork.
Specifications Frameset FRAME/FORK HEADTUBE BTM BRACKET PRICE/WEIGHT
Full carbon, hand lay-up, Made in Italy Tapered headtube 1-1/8" top – 1-1/8" bottom BSA, threaded 68mm $2,600 (1100 kg, 2.42 lbs)
The Build WHEELS TIRES SHIFTING SADDLE CRANKSET CASSETTE DERAILLURS BRAKES PEDALS SEATPOST Q/R WEIGHT AS BUILD
Rolf Prima Ares 4 carbon wheels IRC Aspite Pro 700x26c Campagnolo Veloce Selle SLS Campagnolo Veloce 53t/39t Campagnolo Veloce 9-speed 12-23t Campagnolo Veloce F/R Campagnolo Veloce rim brakes Speedplay Zero Paul's Components, alloy Paul's Components, alloy 7.43 kg (16.4 lbs)
SOURCE Velosport, Boulder Colorado www.velosportimports.com
CONTINUED PAGE 11
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The backside of the frame reveals the full paint scheme with truely excellent metalized paint. The frame is entirely tube-to-tube carbon, but the style throws back to the mixed-material aluminum alloy lug and carbon tube frames that ALAN became known for across the European cyclo-cross circuit in the 70's and 80's. TOP LEFT A crisp alloy head badge commemorates the 40 years ALAN has been building bicycles in Italy, though the legacy continues. The year was bittersweet, as it was also the year the founder Falconi Lodovico passed away at 80 years old of a heart attack, in his bike shop no less. Six years later, his son, Alberto continues building performance machines for race and recreation. BOTTOM LEFT Simple and clean drop outs are matched with the Campagnolo Veloce 9-speed cassette. The 12-23t range is ready for club rides and coffee runs, but matched with the front 53t/39t chain-rings, the 13-26t or even 13-28t cassette options might be more suitable for more climb intensive routes.
More Photos? Visit BICYCLIST.xyz
 alan
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BICYCLIST Magazine
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
lugged construction was the basis for his innovation and seemed to be a way to open the possibilities of material use for bicycles that were otherwise thought not possible. By using lugs that had threaded female inserts, and threading the tubing ends, he devised a method with an aerospace glue to create a rigid frame with alloys previously unavailable to frame builders. This is the idea that ALAN was built on, and just one of the utility patents Lodovico would be awarded. When carbon fiber followed the path of aluminum alloys, ALAN was positioned to take advantage of the phenomenally lightweight material and would go on to be a fixture of professional cyclo-cross racing.
Roots In Racing
Since 1950, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has sanctioned an annual Cyclo-cross World Championship. The current relatively mainstream attention in the United States of cyclo-cross is of bewilderment to European fans who have been captivated by the spectator friendly sport for the past 70 years. Over that span, ALAN frames have been under more winning World Championship cyclo-cross riders than any other frame. The Dutch sensation Mathieu van der Poel won his first World Championship as a junior in 2012 on an ALAN frame and has continued to be a pro cyclo-cross podium favorite. This consistent passion for the sub-sport of cyclo-cross has translated to a legendary frame-builder that has always pushed the boundaries of performance with a focus on material choices and construction techniques.
Present Day
The pursuit of frames designed using exotic lightweight alloys has been replaced with full-carbon construction. For half the cost and less weight, an equally or more rigid frame can be made. The advantages are clear. In the case of the Mito frame, the frameset weight comes in at a svelte 1100 grams, 1470 including the full carbon fork. And at a frameset price of $2600. That is not achievable with lugged construction method. The 46 years of experience designing and building bicycle frames using performance materials gives ALAN an edge that is observable in the craftsmanship of the frame, handmade in Italy halfway between Venice and Verona in the historic city of Padova. The paint scheme gives a clear idea of where bikes of the past would have alloy lugs, but with the advantages of a full-carbon frame. The legendary status of ALAN rests on their racing record, and the MITO commemorates this with World Champion color striping wrapping the tubes. A special commemoration rests on the headbadge, marking the 40 years ALAN build bikes under the direction of founder Lodovico, who passed away in 2012, in his bike shop no less. The frames are available in the United States through a Colorado-based outfit, VeloSport (velosportimports.com). Have one shipped to your local bike shop and build your own version of the ALAN Mito. And the ride? We'll be talking about it in Episode 115 of the BICYCLIST Experience podcast. Tune in! â–˛
BICYCLIST.xyz
11
Legal Cycling
Recording Your Ride: Using Video Evidence Wisely
CALIFORNIA'S INVASION OF PRIVACY ACT MAY PRESENT CONSEQUENCES WHEN USING VIDEO EVIDENCE By Richard Duquette, 911law.com
T
he age of helmet and bicycle mounted cameras such as GoPros, Contours, and Fly 6s has opened up a world of possibilities that enhance recreation and entertainment. But this technology also has legal implications that bicyclists should keep in mind. On the one hand, recording your ride can preserve important evidence if you are injured in a crash or if you are stopped by a police officer. If you were doing nothing wrong, the video may vindicate you, or it may show that the person who his you was at fault. On the other hand, you should also exercise caution when it comes to recording your interactions with other people in order to avoid running afoul of eavesdropping and privacy laws. While most states and Federal law only require the consent of one party to record a conversation, California and a handful of other states goes a step further. The California Invasion of Privacy Act (Penal Code §§630-637.5) requires the consent of all parties to a conversation before recording it. Recording a private conversation with another person without their permission can involve both criminal and civil penalties in California, and any evidence obtained by this method may not be used in court except to prosecute violations of the Act. The broadest and most important section of this act for our purposes is §632. This provision makes it a crime to use any electronic recording or amplification device to record a conversation “intentionally and without the consent of all parties to a confidential communication.” A first offense is a misdemeanor, but if someone has been previously convicted of a similar offense, it is charged as a felony. The Act also spells out the civil remedies in §637.2. Damages are to be awarded in amounts of $5,000 per violation or triple of the actual damages, whichever sum is greater. No actual damages need to be shown. Statutorily prescribed damages are rare, and they generally have a public policy rationale. This is no exception. The California legislature was careful to state in enacting this law that its intent was to protect the right to privacy—a right specifically enshrined in the California Constitution. Furthermore, §632(d) states that recordings obtained in violation of this law cannot be used as evidence, except in prosecutions or civil law suits against the person who made the illegal recording. So if you think that covertly recording someone’s private statements will help you win a legal case against them, it won’t. All it can do is get you into trouble.
What is a Confidential Communication? Ultimately, liability under this law comes down to the question of what is a “confidential communication.” The statute itself defines a confidential communication to include a communication “carried on in circumstances that may reasonably indicate that any party to the communication desires it to be confined to the parties thereto.” It also excludes
communications “made in a public gathering or in any legislative, judicial, executive or administrative proceeding open to the public, or in any other circumstance in which the parties to the communication may reasonably expect that the communication may be overheard or recorded.” Courts interpreting the law have agreed that there must be an objectively reasonable expectation of privacy (the subjective expectation of the speaker that their communications will be kept confidential is not relevant if it is not reasonable). But exactly what constitutes a reasonable expectation of privacy has been a thorny issue for the courts to untangle. The California Supreme Court decided between two competing interpretations in the case of Flanagan v. Flanagan, 27 Cal.4th 766 (2002). One lower court held that a communication is confidential if one party to it “reasonably expected…that the conversation would not be divulged to anyone else.” O’Laskey v. Sortino, 224 Cal.App.3d. 241, 248 (1990). Another court held that a communication is confidential whenever there is “a reasonable expectation by one of the parties that no one is ‘listening in’ or overhearing the conversation.” Frio v. Superior Court, 203 Cal.App.3d. 1480, 1490 (1988). The Supreme Court Flanagan adopted the reasoning of the Frio court, holding that as long as a party to a conversation has an “objectively reasonable expectation that they were not being recorded,” the communication is confidential and the two-party consent rule applies.
Public Interactions
So there are times when it is perfectly appropriate to record an interaction. In public places, people do not have a legitimate expectation of privacy and therefore cannot claim a privacy violation if their public words and actions are recorded. This is especially true if you happen to incidentally capture their movements on a public roadway right before a collision. One tricky question related to this issue is whether you must have consent to continue recording their words and actions after the crash. The answer is that you probably don’t need consent for two reasons. First, there is a good chance that they will become aware of such a camera, depending on its size. Second, if an event took place in public, there is a good chance that there are other witnesses. Some of these witnesses may have stopped to observe, and some may record the encounter on their phones or take pictures of the damage. A person does not have an expectation of privacy after an accident—especially when an injury is involved. When that happens, they are required by law to wait for the police to arrive. This of course means that there is a good chance of any actions or statements being recorded either on video or in an officer’s written report. Another time this issue can be raised after a bicycle accident is when you are contacted by an insurance adjuster after the fact. Adjusters will often seek to interview witnesses and victims after an accident. Very frequently they are doing this to try to get an admission of fault or other statements they can use to minimize their liability. These conversations are frequently recorded. I advise my clients to never talk to insurers. Even if you don’t agree to be recorded, they can still use the contents of your statement against you because anything you say that is against your own interest is an exception to the hearsay rule.
Rubber Meets the Road
Video evidence can be a great tool for getting to the truth and for promoting accountability for all parties involved. But it is important that it be used wisely, especially in a legal environment in which privacy protections are paramount. If you have a legal issue involving video evidence, whether of a police encounter or a bicycle-related injury, contact the Law Firm of Richard Duquette. With 34 years of legal experience, we can help you navigate the sometimes complex legal issues. Let a knowledgeable and experienced attorney deal with the police, witnesses, and insurance adjusters. If you go about trying to prove your own case without understanding these issues, you can end up not only losing your case, but also getting into serious legal troubles. ▲
RICHARD L. DUQUETTE has been fighting for his clients since 1983. His family-owned law firm specializes in providing personal attention and quality representation to the people of San Diego, Riverside, and Orange Counties. Visit and read his blog at 911law.com
12
BICYCLIST Magazine
Gear Patrol
Enduro Backpack In the land of devils Henty Hangs Tight By Chris Reynolds
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he Henty Enduro Backpack feels like a hug and holds like a holster. Mixing a retro fanny-pack, hydration bladder, backpack, and tactical quality, the result is a lightweight alternative that keeps the essentials at easy reach. The genius of the construction is moving the hydration bladder lower on the back and distributing the watery mass horizontally, acting as impact protection around the sides and kidneys. It accommodates standard 3L bladders, though it doesn't include a bladder, the only disappointment considering the $110 cost. Like many small independent makers, the attention to production and quality is the priority. Constructed of Cordura 500D nylon, the backpack is tough. Straps and nylon elastics are mixed with molle webbing with double-stitched seams and closures. It really is a well-built piece of gear and was designed using the test bed of the roads and trails of Tasmania, Australia's island state.
Hug Yourself
In use, the Enduro Backpack is very comfortable. The back pouch is accessible while riding with either left or right hand, but the flap has enough weight to keep gear from spilling out. The elastic bands on
the side are really convenient in practice allowing for nutrition without having to go for the reach around.
Stuffed to the gills
Fully loaded is where this piece of kit shines. Its use on the bike is really well thought out. Typically, the position of back-worn gear brings the bulk of the gear to a part of the back that's already stretching forward to accommodate forward handlebar reach. Adding a bunch gear and weight puts pressure on this area, leading to sweaty back suffering. With the Enduro Backpack, the carried weight occupies a lower place on your body, making for a less awkward experience of body-carrying gear while riding the ups and downs of your local mountain. Moving the mass to the waist and supporting it via breathable shoulder straps is an obvious evolutionary change, yet we haven't seen anything like this. And if needed, it can be absolutely STUFFED with gear by utilizing the strapping on the rear pouch. The weight is carried low and the waist belt keeps it supported above the hips, without any discomfort while riding. It is a welcome change for improving the experience of cycling whether for enduro riding, cross county riding, The Henty Enduro Backpack is a smart collaboration of outdoor essentials with or just spending a day exploring your local dirt pile by integrated hydration bladder, über storage options and an innovative move bike. ▲ - $110, henty.cc horizontally of the hydration bladder, acting as side and back impact protection.
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13
Hands On
Back On the Road Again This time with the 'First Avenue' Trike Recumbent By Rob Templin
“This isn’t a trike you have to worry about being gentle with – it’ll take any and all abuse you can throw at it.”
I
n Issue 146 of BICYCLIST magazine, as some of you might have read, I wrote about the beginning of my trike recumbent education. There was a very good reason for my going back to ‘school’: a broken neck from a bicycle accident, and fused C1-3 vertebrae. If I wanted to continue my passion for cycling, it was time to start a new chapter with a new ride. I gained a fair amount of experience and knowledge with traditional two-wheel recumbents and tandems from my days as a partner at Burley Design Cooperative, back when they still manufactured them. But as for recumbent trikes, that was a whole other ‘course’ of study.
acclimating to Trikes
In the last issue, I wrote that I considered myself fortunate to get the opportunity to ride, test, and review a collection of models covering the full recumbent trike spectrum. As many of you may already know, it can be a huge challenge to find a recumbent trike dealer in your area (or even within hundreds of miles) with any kind of inventory to take test rides. And when it comes to experience or knowledge with trikes, the situation with most conventional shops is like a desert in terms of guidance. Most folks wanting to explore the category have to depend heavily on ad copy, Internet searches and forums; as well as friends that happen to ride ‘bents. And reviews like this one. So far, my trike education has been with “tadpole” models that have two front wheels for steering and one rear drive wheel (there’s probably an interesting back story to where and how that designation came to be but that will have to wait for another time). The popularity and main selling points of this design include: stability (a particularly important feature to someone like myself with a fused spine – or anyone with health issues), a smaller frame profile, a sportier ride experience, and a lighter weight. The First Avenue Trike, a relatively new model from Avenue Trikes, was the next bike up for review as I continued my education with this very unique cycling discipline.
First Introductions
According to the folks at Avenue Trikes, they “design rugged trikes then price them for casual riders”. The blueprint for their First Avenue model was to build features into the trike that you would appreciate as you become more experienced; or, as Avenue Trikes puts it, a “more serious rider”. With a MSRP of $1,495 I think you’ll find, like I did, that this trike is an excellent value for someone exploring the recumbent trike market without looking to spend a huge initial outlay to get started. In an effort to provide quality – and fair - test ride data, especially when comparing a single category like trikes, I use a favorite loop of mine here in southern California that consists of 40 to 50 miles of mixed road terrain: everything from lots of flats to rolling hills, and even a few sustained 14
climbs. I’ll do this loop a minimum of 30 times, under varying weather conditions, to get a truly complete feel for the good, bad, and ugly of any bike I’m reviewing. Though finding a shop with trikes available for test rides is difficult, at least the majority of the trike companies configure their bikes with easy adjust-ability for a proper initial fit. Later, as you become a more experienced trike aficionado, you'll be able to fine-tune your ride. The First Avenue is no exception. The pedal boom took only minutes to size correctly and accomplished simply with an Allen wrench. No tools were required to adjust the recline angle of the seat or set the frame up for correct leg length.
First Impressions of First Avenue Trike
The seat and frame both adjust to fit riders from 5’2” to 6’6” (or, in recumbent geek, the X-Seam range is 34”- 46”); so being 5’9” I had no size or fit issues. And weighing just over 130lbs got me well under the 300lb max rider weight limit set by the company. A nice bonus is that the seat is not only effortless to adjust it’s a snap to remove completely, also without tools – making it a convenient package for travel. Another ‘stock’ feature of any trike I’ve ridden so far has been the somewhat prerequisite flag mount, which the First Avenue comes with. My first impressions on comfort while making these initial adjustments, and doing a quick perfunctory ‘parking lot’ test ride were favorable. Many test miles later, this first take would
prove to be spot-on. The 14” high seat has an easy reach to the handlebars, which makes getting on and off the First Avenue an uncomplicated effort. The seat width comes in around 16.5” as we measured. Of course, along with stability, easy in-out of the riding cockpit is a key feature many first-time trike shoppers seek out. In speaking of stability, the First Avenue’s intelligent geometry enhances this key element of any trike that’s going to be a dependable and safe ride: the BB height of the frame is 12.5”, providing 6” of ground clearance – matched to a 40” wheel base and 31.5” wheel track. Other, more subtle, components that work together to assist with this overall ride experience include the 20” x 1.75” tires; while soaking up some of the road shock, they also easily handled potholes and cracks in the road much better than my former ‘skinny’ 700c road tires. Kingpins that turn on a ball bearing headset make maneuverability and steering smooth and seamless under a wide range of road conditions. I logged some painless early miles to get me up to speed with the handling characteristics of the trike before putting in some serious road miles. First up in this process was experimenting with the Promax DSK-310 mechanical disc brakes featured on the First Avenue. My learning curve with disc brakes (in a tadpole trike package), in all honesty, is still an on-going process as I adjust to a different way of braking from my former ‘roadie’ life. I’m adapting to a whole new set of handling characteristics BICYCLIST Magazine
and technique when it comes to having all the braking action take place with two front wheels – particularly when it comes to applying equal braking pressure to each front wheel to avoid that unnerving, squirrelly drifting that can happen if one wheel gets more braking action than the other. Bottom line: the disc brakes accomplish the goal of smooth and solid stopping power but, for some new to the trike scene, there might be a learning curve for proper use.
through the spec sheet on the trike, not while riding. As a side note, when it comes to fit and sizing of a trike, many of the parameters you might have been used to with your previous ride(s) get tossed out the proverbial window – you’re not really comparing apples to apples anymore. This sizing aspect of trike recumbents just reinforces the importance of the previously mentioned easy adjust-ability. I’m finding that, over time and as you become more experienced and stronger, it’s important to fine-tune the fit and your position occasionally. The First Avenue gives you this on-going ability with features offering a minimum of time or hassle(s) to implement. After several hundred miles of riding, the first and most important aspect of the First Avenue was that it didn’t take several hundred miles of riding to feel comfortable on the machine. Especially for those new to the trike scene, the First Avenue is going to be a great introduction to the world of trikes and what they have to offer when a conventional road bike is no longer a viable option – or, maybe, you just want to get back into riding with a stable, safe platform after many years off your former machine. This is a trike that requires little, if any, break-in saddle time. Well, I should correct that point a bit as any recumbent (trike or two wheel) is going to use different muscle groups (legs, back, and butt) than maybe what you’ve been using in the past. Under hard pedaling, most new riders to the recumbent world find that the most noticeable difference is a pain in the butt – literally.
Adapting to a New Ride
'Bent Butt
After 45-plus years of racing (including many solo RAAMs and U.S.C.F. road events), commuting, touring, and recreational riding – the majority of miles all being on a classic road machine - my learning curve might actually be longer than many with this kind of ‘hard-wired’ cycling background. Like most things in life, trike recumbent braking is all about experience according to many of my new trike friends in the know – especially when making an emergency stop or ‘bombing’ a fast downhill. The First Avenue disc brakes are matched to aluminum brake levers with a convenient parking brake mechanism that will come in handy when you decide to slow down to make a stop at the local Starbucks for your morning cup of Joe with friends.
Shifting Duties
My first experience with Gripshift-style shifters was some 30 or 40 years ago when the first generation was introduced back in the early dinosaur age of bike components. At the time, they were competing against Shimano and their revolutionary ‘click’ shifting for the road bike market. Gripshift, in their original configuration, were installed at the ends of a road bike’s handlebar drops (were bar-ends also could be mounted). They were clunky, heavy, and bulky – and that’s being diplomatic. Fortunately, the design and function of this shifter style has improved dramatically over the past 40 years. The First Avenue 24 speed SRAM Gripshifters had a very natural, intuitive feel matched with crisp – and smooth - gear changes across the full range; it’s almost as if the shifters were made for a trike like this. No learning curve involved here! Up front, the SRAM shifters handled the ‘mandatory’ trike triple front dérailleur (30/42/52 chain-rings) flawlessly while the same could be said for the rear SRAM X-5 eight speed rear dérailleur (11x32). This combination provides a gear range of 19” to 95” – more than adequate I found for my varied test terrain, and I’m pretty confident you’ll come to the same conclusion. I previously used a crank-set that was slightly longer than the 170mm that is stock on this trike. But that really didn’t seem to be a serious issue as I only noted it while reading BICYCLIST.xyz
If you ask anyone about their first dozen or so rides on a recumbent, they’ll be quick to tell you to prepare for ‘recumbent butt’ as your posterior adapts to the seated position while pedaling. But it’s part of the introduction to the world of trikes that most riders – myself included – adjust(ed) to pretty quickly. Since you’ll also be using your back for pedaling leverage at times (like hills), you’ll appreciate the breathable, mesh seat cover with removable padding on the First Avenue. I ended up experimenting with different styles and firmness of foam padding materials to achieve the most comfortable seated position I could find. But the stock seat padding for the casual category of rider should more than handle the job of keeping you comfortable as you roll the miles under. It seems like there are as many different handlebar configurations in the trike marketplace as there are models. The handlebar design of the First Avenue, like the bike as a whole when it comes to handling, is natural enough that you won’t find yourself in over your head from the very first ride. The learning curve – there’s that term again - is short. Very short.
Numbers That Will Matter
Initially, in your daily riding, these numbers probably won’t mean much to you, but after months of use – sometimes in close quarters - you’ll begin to appreciate the very reasonable 12’ turning circle and 6’ turning radius. The First Avenue provides answers to many of the small details often overlooked in this price range - details that otherwise would start to annoy or hinder your enjoyment of a trike over time if not resolved. There is one ‘elephant’ in the room regarding the one important spec that I haven’t yet mentioned: at 47lbs this isn’t going to be the lightest trike you can purchase. That’s the trade-off for using a chromoly frame to achieve a great value (we did mention the $1,495 MSRP price tag didn’t we?); and the material does provide Avenue Trikes the ability to tout their “rugged” frame claim. This isn’t a trike you have to worry about being gentle with – it’ll take any and all abuse you can throw at it. I still found the performance characteristics of pedaling efficiency and handling to be comparable to other lighter
models (including aluminum) it’s just that it’s going to take a bit more effort and time on the climbs when pushing 50lbs versus more expensive models weighing 10lbs less (of course, your wallet is also going to be a lot lighter with some of these alternatives). And my former ‘race’ road ride, coming in at 15 lbs, isn’t really a fair starting point for weight comparison to the trike category. On the flats, the weight of the trike wasn’t a huge issue but I did notice a definite slowing down when it came to the extended climbs on my test circuit. Again, more than a few trike friends commented that a recumbent is often going to require the rider to ‘spin’ more to maintain speed and efficiency no matter what the weight or build material is. This can be a skill that takes a bit of time to master. If you want to save a few pounds (both with your trike and wallet) you’ll need to opt for an aluminum frame pushing $1,000 – or more. But if you fall into the ‘casual’ category that Avenue Bikes designed this recumbent for, save your money. This is especially true if most of your riding is going to be on flatter terrain, you’re looking to explore the trike market for the first time, or have a significant other that you’ll have to justify purchasing a new toy to. This will be a purchase easy to justify!
Last Notes
As the industry joke goes, you have many color choices with the First Avenue – as long as it’s blue (their term, actually, for the deep blue color is “Reflex Blue”). Transporting the First Avenue should be a breeze and uncomplicated for most of your road trips after you take the seat off (easy to do, as noted earlier), making the height 25” (otherwise, the total height is 29”). Total length is 66” (depending on rider height or seat recline), and, as noted earlier, width is 34”.
Extra Accessories
If you live in wet environments like the Northwest, consider the rear fender ($23.95). For commuting, shopping, or other basic errands, the aluminum rear rack is a must ($64.95). They offer a water bottle cage ($10.95) but your local IBD also offers plenty of options with this common accessory as well. I’ve become a huge fan of mirrors for cycling since breaking my neck. I actually prefer two: one on the bike and another on the helmet or sunglasses. You can’t go wrong with their Mirrycle Mirror at $18.95. Avenue Trikes offer an economical and simple wireless computer option with sensor mount for $41.95; if you need just the sensor mount alone, that’s $9.95. Other ‘custom’ accessory options include a rack top bag ($59.95) and utility panniers (pair) at $51.95 – great for the commuter or a quick dash to the grocery store.▲
Specifications BRAKES
Promax DSK-310 Disc Brakes
BRAKE LEVERS Aluminum with Parking Brake DÉRAILLEUR
8-speed SRAM X-5
SHIFTERS
24-speed SRAM Gripshift 3.0
CRANKSET
170 mm Triple
CHAINRINGS
30/42/52
CASSETTE
8 speed 11/32
GEAR RANGE
19" to 95"
TIRES
20x1.75"
COLOR
Reflex Blue
WEIGHT 47lbs MSRP
$1,495
WEBSITE avenuetrikes.com
15
Lost tech
Event PROFILES
THE “COOL TOOL"
Wildflower 2018 The Woodstock of Triathlons is Back
WHEN THE FIRST BICYCLE MULTI-TOOL WAS COOL By Bob Becker
By Richard Duquette
The original patent filling by Robert Seals registered in 1990.
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obert Seals, a multi-faceted artist, activist, frame builder, race promoter and team owner, was one of the most brilliant figures in the early years of mountain biking, while being an outrageous character known for many bizarre exploits (see Dirt Rag Magazine #178). He is responsible for innovations in folding and solar sound stages, designing the Retrotec frame and developing the KleenKanteen. However, arguably, his most important contribution was the Cool Tool, one of the first, if not the first, bicycle multi-tools, which he invented and patented. The Cool Tool claimed twenty seven separate tools all attached to an adjustable wrench which was the backbone for them. The wrench's "jaws" were tapered in order to be used as a pedal wrench and a cone wrench. Other tools included, but were not limited to, 4, 5, and 6 mm Allen wrenches, 14/15 gauge spoke wrenches, a 10 mm box wrench, Phillips screwdriver, chain tool, tire tool, pedal wrench, emergency crank bolt, 14/15 mm sockets, bottom bracket adapter, and cotter-less crank wrench. Whew! The Cool Tool was constructed of hard chrome-plated steel in Taiwan, while a titanium version was produced in the US. His company produced other very innovative, but lesser known, multi-tools, one which served as a seat post quick release and a tubular unit that could be inserted into the hollow end of a seat post. The Cool Tool and its siblings were very popular in the early 1990's, but had lost some luster when the company was sold to Gerber circa 1996. Gerber's versions didn't have the same reputation for durability as the original models and the tool had inherent limitations such as difficulty keeping the tools together, something that could be resolved by inserting the tool into a short, cut section of a bicycle tube, was heavy (1/2 pound), had a proclivity to rust and didn’t have a flat head screwdriver. Accordingly, it faded into oblivion, and is unlikely to be revived. As an aside, my parents gave me a Cool Tool as a Christmas present in 1991 and it still functions perfectly more than a quarter century later. I have many wonderful memories of them. Fortunately, some are concrete. ▲
FIND A RIDE NEAR YOU view the full calendar online at
BICYCLIST.xyz/EVENTS 16
The Wildflower Experience isn't just popular for athletes and competitors, it's also a great opportunity to spectate and enjoy the festival atmosphere. Photo Thomas Kriese, 2009
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he Wildflower Triathlon is known as the "Woodstock" of Triathlons, mostly for the camping and music elements of the event. In 2016 my wife and I took the trip to Lake San Antonio in our motor home for the adventure. Sure, it took time to make it happen, but it was worth it. The drive through the countryside of the Central California Coast was breathtaking. The sight of rolling hills, spotted with historic broad limb oak trees, was inspiring. After skipping a year due to drought in 2017, the race is back this year. Thanks to last year’s rains, the lake is full again. The race course highlight is the triathlon bike course. It’s a challenging trek through the scenic countryside, the Long Course option includes a 56-mile bike ride through the hills, valleys and wildflowers, but it doesn't get any prettier than riding through wine country. After the race, we relax on the grass under the oak grove and enjoy the awards ceremony and music festival. While we won’t hear Jimi Hendrix playing the Star-Spangled Banner on his guitar, there will be local bands to set the tone. But mostly we hope that famed triathlete Julie Moss returns to energetically display her fantastic race and awards announcing skills, from swim course to trophies. I have met some really impressive athletes of all ages there too. As generations of Triathlon Club of San Diego members come and go, it's good to connect the names and faces with each group that caravans to Wildflower. This includes the Nytro Women’s Triathlon team captained by multi-Ironman finisher Julie Dunkle. Which brings me to one of the reasons I will always return to the "Woodstock" of triathlons. It's the camping (OK, I'm in a motor-home, but I'm 61). It's also the different teams and clubs mingling together. Good vibes with camp fires, the "in the buff" run, a beer or two, race spectator cowbells, and laughs. To add to the festivities, Wildflower has partnered with Firestone Walker Brewing Company, which has its main brewery in Paso Robles. Alongside the competition will run the "wellness festival" with festivities that include an art bar, wellness spa, yoga retreat, kayak rentals, and the Wildflower Marketplace to shop for handcrafted and artisan goods. In 1989, I did the Wildflower long course triathlon and slept in the back of my pickup truck. Times have changed, but not the challenge of the race and the love of the sport. Many more college kids and more women are racing now, and there are more sponsors too—the makings of a good time. Motiv Sports is the new race organizer, headquartered in Denver, Colorado with offices worldwide. Thank them for reviving Wildflower! So, head on up to the Wildflower triathlon for a well-organized event, camp out, enjoy the fun times, and challenge yourself in one of the classic California triathlons! ▲ The 2018 Wildflower Experience runs May 4-6th at Lake San Antonio with offerings for team or individual competitions. See www.wildflowerexperience.com for more information.
BICYCLIST Magazine
Asphalt, Please
Tour de Acoma A Legendary Ride through the Southwest
ACOMA PUEBLO'S "SKY CITY" IS THE OLDEST CONTINUOUSLY INHABITED COMMUNITY IN NORTH AMERICA By John Woodson
The Enchanted Mesa (Mesa Encantada) is a sandstone butte in Cibola County, New Mexico on the Acoma Pueblo Indian Reservation. This is one of the many incredible views you get when you ride the Tour de Acoma. Photo by Ethan Kan/Flickr
I
n the American Southwest you won’t find a more breathtaking backdrop than Acoma Pueblo’s “Sky City.” Built atop a sheer-walled, sandstone mesa in a valley studded with sacred, towering monoliths it is the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America and known for its rich culture, pottery and bucket list worthy Tour De Acoma. Offering ride lengths of 100, 50 and 25 miles with male, female and tandem categories the Tour De Acoma offers every rider a chance to win prized Acoma pottery. Plus, with all proceeds going to the Haak’u Museum Foundation the event helps preserve New Mexico pueblo history and art. That’s a good thing. Whether your goal is winning or taking a leisurely ride through legendar y landscapes here are a few pro bucket rider tips: • • • • •
Don’t stand out like a tourist in a Hawaiian shirt, pronounce Acoma as ACK-uh-muh. Photos are forbidden on pueblo land so leave your phone and just enjoy the views. Competitive riders gravitate towards the 100 or 50-mile events with the 25-miler reserved for recreational riders, no sandbagging racers allowed. The 50 and 100-mile routes start off fast on a rolling downhill, warm up beforehand. The 100-mile group doesn’t stop, they never do.
You never know who will show up at the Tour de
Acoma. Southwest racing legends John Frey and Jim Warsaw were in the 100-mile event this year. Decades ago I raced against both (well, at least I started with them) when they were at their peak and set the US National 40K Tandem Time Trail record. At 10-miles Kadzima (Enchanted Mesa) towers in front with the morning sun illuminating its sheer walls while shadows cling to the backside. It’s one of the most beautiful monoliths in the region. Down the road a few miles, Sky City’s adobe buildings cling to the mesa tabletop above. Don’t stare too long or you’ll put a crook in your neck and miss the turn to Kuumi, the only significant climb. On paper, Kuumi doesn’t seem too tough with 1.5 miles at 6%, but beware some sections pitch to 12%. Stop at the top for an impressive view of Sky City. Just like decades ago, Frey and Warsaw were off the front and I was chasing. On the long downhill to McCartys check out the 11,000 foot Kaweshtima (Mt. Taylor) to the north. In the winter it will be snowcapped. At I40, the 50-mile route turns east towards the finish while the 100-mile route continues into El Mapais National Monument. The El Mapais out and back section starts with a gentle uphill, but into a not-so-gentle headwind. Don’t work too hard, it’s 20-miles till the turn-around. Eventually you’ll be rewarded with a downhill tailwind return to McCartys,
offering a chance to catch riders up the road, which is what we do – even with Warsaw’s textbook blocking for teammates. Rolling back through McCartys village, make note of the cool lava flow on either side of the road. At only 3000 years old it is one of the youngest volcanic features in the lower 48. I, on the other hand, were one of the oldest features in the group – and feeling it. With only a few flat-ish miles remaining focus on turning those pedals over. You are almost there! Stay vigilant at the finish amidst potholes, cattle guards and a wee bit of gravel about. In the 100-mile event, the Too-Young-To-Be-ALegend Fortunato Ferrara easily won the solo male category with his team sweeping the podium. Legend John Frey with stoker Blue Soroos won the tandem category, while Jim Warsaw and I finish swapping tall tales about racing “back in the day” - when we had hair. ▲
RIDE LOCATION NEXT EVENT DISTANCE DIFFICULTY START HOSTS INFO
TOUR DE ACOMA ACOMA, NEW MEXICO MARCH 17, 2018 35, 50, OR 100 MILES NOVICE/INTERMEDIATE/PRO SKY CITY CASINO HIGH DESERT BICYCLES TOURDEACOMA.COM
JOHN WOODSON lives and rides in New Mexico, a legendary character that is always on the lookout for legendary rides. Or even less than legendary. But always a good experience. Do you organize or participate in a ride that qualifies? Let him know; jwoodson@bicyclist.xyz
BICYCLIST.xyz
17
Event Calendar April 7 Saturday
2018
Ironman 70.3 Oceanside Challenged Athletes Foundation TRIATHLON: 70.3 miles
Oceanside
SCa Tri
Oceanside Pier ____________________________________________________
Chico Wildflower Century Chico Velo ROAD: 12-100 miles
7-8 Multi
California Classic Weekend California Classic ROAD: 35,50,100 miles
Chico
NCa
Silver Dollar Fairgrounds ___________________________________________________________________
Clovis
NCa
Clovis Recreational Center ____________________________________________________
Sea Otter Classic Festival MIXED: Road, Cross, MTB
20-22 Multi
Haute Route San Francisco Haute Route TOUR: 194 miles
21 Saturday
Lake Sonoma MTB Grasshopper Adventure Series MTB: 8.1 mile course Occidental Community Center
8 Sunday
Campagnolo SD Gran Fondo Gran Fondo Cycling Tours ROAD: 20-105 miles
SCa
____________________________________________________
OC Dirty Trail Fest Dirty Feet Productions MTB: 15k O'Neil Regional Park
Sierra Century SAC Wheelmen ROAD: 41,65,102,122 miles
Tour de Cure San Diego American Diabetes Association ROAD: 5 -100 miles
Tour de OC Royal Family Kids ROAD: 25, 62 miles
Cinderella Classic & Challenge Pleasanton Valley Spokesmen ROAD: 65 miles SCa Alameda County Fairgrounds
22 Sunday
Primavera Century Fremont Freewheelers BC ROAD: 25,63,80,100 miles
Mulholland Challenge Planet Ultra ROAD: 100 miles Hampton Inn & Suites
Los Angeles
CicLAvia:Heart of Foothills CicLAvia ROAD: Open Streets
Mulholland Double Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles Hampton Inn & Suites
Los Angeles
27-28 Multi
Campo Velo Clif Bar ROAD: various routes
14-15 Multi
Canyon Belgian Waffle Ride Creative Disruption MIXED: 75, 140 miles
San Marcos
28 Saturday
Finish the Ride, Run, Walk, Roll Finish the Ride ROAD: 6,20,30,50 miles
Eroica California Eroica ROAD: 40, 70, 87, 127 miles
Paso Robles
15 Sunday
UCC – Fiesta Island Time Trials UC Cyclery/SDBC ROAD: Time Trial
____________________________________________________
SCa
____________________________________________________
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
SCa
Lost Abbey Brewery ____________________________________________________
SCa
Paso Robles Downtown Park ___________________________________________________________________
San Diego
SCa
Fiesta Island Rd. ___________________________________________________________________
18
SCa Plymouth
NCa
Amador County Fairgrounds ____________________________________________________
14 Saturday
SCa
Trabuco Canyon
____________________________________________________
Del Mar Fairgrounds ____________________________________________________
Occidental
Bike Around the Buttes Sutter YSCDSG MTB: 17.5,40 miles course NCa Yuba-Sutter Children Center
So Cal Enduro Series Race #3 Fontana Team Big Bear MTB: XC, Enduro, DH SCa Southridge Park San Diego
NCa
Alpine Challenge Kiwanis Club of Alpine ROAD: TBA
Alpine
SCa
Summers Past Farms ____________________________________________________
Costa Mesa
SCa
Vanguard University ___________________________________________________________________
Fremont
Claremont
SCa
Calistoga
NCa
Calistoga ___________________________________________________________________
Los Angeles
SCa
Griffith Park ____________________________________________________
Breathless Agony OC Wheelmen ROAD: TBA
Event Name Organizer TYPE: length
City, State
FEATURES
SCa NCa
Nv
MAGAZINE SUPPORTERS support our supporters COMPETITION events with posted participants and results ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GRAVEL fire roads, grinders and adventure rides TRIATHLON running, swimming, and biking BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES! SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA
Ride for Rwanda 50 Mile Ride MTB: 10, 25, 50 miles
OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA
Or Wa
Az
Rancho Santa Margarita
SCa
Applied Medical ____________________________________________________
Ride 4 A Reason Claremont Middle School PTA ROAD: 45,68,110 miles
Dublin
NCa
Alamo Creek Park ____________________________________________________
Barrio Logan Grand Prix San Diego Bicycle Club ROAD: .8 mile course
27-29 Multi
The Whiskey Off-Road Epic Rides MTB: Single Track
San Diego
SCa
Beardsley St. & Newton St. ___________________________________________________________________
Arizona
Az
Whiskey Row, Prescott
NCa
Mission San Jose High School ____________________________________________________
W. 1st Street in Claremont ___________________________________________________________________
Tri
____________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge ___________________________________________________________________
Downtown San Diego ____________________________________________________
NCa
NCa
Day
Location
Monterey
Laguna Seca Mazda Raceway ___________________________________________________________________
Fontana City National Fontana Team Big Bear MTB: XC, Enduro, DH SCa Southridge Park San Diego
SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date
19-22 Multi
___________________________________________________________________
GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR
We do our best to comb the wild west of cycling event websites to get the information you need to make the most of your time in the saddle. We provide this comprehensive listing, without endorsement, but we ask that you support the events that support the magazine. To submit your event and view the full calendar, visit www.BICYCLIST.events.
Redlands
SCa
Sylvan Park ____________________________________________________
May
2018
2-6 Multi
Redlands Bicycle Classic Redlands Bicycle Classic ROAD: Invitational
Redlands
3-5 Multi
Sagan Gran Fondo - Dirt Bike Monkey MIXED: Dirt
4-6 Multi
Wildflower Experience Motiv Sports TRI: Individual and Relay
5 Saturday
Skaggs and Super Skaggs Grasshopper Adventure Series MIXED: 96 miles Occidental Community Center
SCa
Downtown Redlands ___________________________________________________________________
Truckee
NCa
Truckee Tahoe Airport ___________________________________________________________________
Bradley
NCa Tri
Lake San Antonio Shore ___________________________________________________________________
Occidental
NCa
BICYCLIST Magazine
5 Saturday
OC MTB Fremont XC Race Orange OC MTB MTB: 17 mile course SCa Fremont Canyon
6 Sunday
So Cal Enduro Series Race #5 Team Big Bear MTB: XC, Enduro, DH
8 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 1st Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
___________________________________________________________________
Los Olivos
SCa
Los Olivos ___________________________________________________________________
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
10 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
Escondido
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
12 Saturday
Tour of Long Beach Renegade Race Series ROAD: 5,30,62,100 miles
Long Beach
SCa
Long Beach Convention Center ____________________________________________________
I Care Classic Morgan Hill Almaden Super Lions Club ROAD: 20-100 miles NCa Morgan Hill
13 Sunday
So Cal Enduro Series Race #5 Team Big Bear MTB: XC, Enduro, DH
15 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 1st Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
___________________________________________________________________
Temecula
SCa
Vail Lake ___________________________________________________________________
Silverado
25-28 Multi
The Great Western Bike Rally Climate Ride ROAD: 292 to 327 miles
29 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 1st Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
31 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
June
Colorado
Operation Ride for Red Ventura Red Cross of Ventura ROAD: 30,61,99 miles SCa Camarillo ____________________________________________________ King Ridge Dirt Supreme Occidental Grasshopper Adventure Series MIXED: 96 miles NCa Occidental Community Center ____________________________________________________
San Diego
SCa
Cardiff-by-the-Sea ____________________________________________________
UCI Anti-Cancer Ride & Run Renegade Race Series ROAD: 10,30,60,100 Miles
20-24 Multi
California North Coast Ride Climate Ride ROAD: 292 to 327 miles
22 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 1st Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
Irvine
SCa
Orange County Great Park ___________________________________________________________________
Fortuna
NCa
Fotuna TBA ___________________________________________________________________
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
24 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
Date
SCa
2-3 Multi
Mojave Death Race Grasshopper Adventure Series MIXED: 96 miles Nipton Trading Post
Ojai
3 Sunday
Bike MS Los Angeles Pasadena National MS Society ROAD: 30,60,100 miles SCa Rose Bowl
SCa
Ojai Valley ___________________________________________________________________
Nipton
NCa
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Day
Event Name Organizer TYPE: length
City, State
FEATURES
Location
2018
Ojai Valley Century Ojai Valley Rides ROAD: 120-180 miles
Tri
SCa NCa
Nv
MAGAZINE SUPPORTERS support our supporters COMPETITION events with posted participants and results ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GRAVEL ďŹ re roads, grinders and adventure rides TRIATHLON running, swimming, and biking BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES! SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA
Or Wa
Az
OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA
on i t a r ope
RIDE FOR THE RED Saturday, May 19 2018 www.bicyclist.events
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
San Diego Century Spectrum Sports ROAD: 33,67,105 miles
SIGNS & SYMBOLS
Escondido
2 Saturday
Escondido
19 Saturday
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT & view full calendar
The Grand Junction Off-Road Epic Rides MTB: 8.1 mile course Boulder
Silverado
GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR
We do our best to comb the wild west of cycling event websites to get the information you need to make the most of your time in the saddle. We provide this comprehensive listing, without endorsement, but we ask that you support the events that support the magazine.
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
18-20 Multi
SCa
Paso Robles Convention Center ___________________________________________________________________
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
17 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
Paso Robles
Salute the Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces program in the Third Annual Operation: Ride for the Red! From the newly enlisted to long time veterans, Red Cross volunteers serve the military that serves our country. 5 mile fun ride 30 miles 50 miles 100 miles Sign up today for early bird pricing. Active duty military and veterans ride free!
redcross.org/operationride
Escondido
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
BICYCLIST.xyz
19
Event Calendar
GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR
We do our best to comb the wild west of cycling event websites to get the information you need to make the most of your time in the saddle. We provide this comprehensive listing, without endorsement, but we ask that you support the events that support the magazine. To submit your event and view the full calendar, visit www.BICYCLIST.events.
SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date
June 2018
21 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
2-3 Multi
Mojave Death Race Nipton Mojave Death Race ROAD: 2-day Race NCa Nipton Trading Post
23 Saturday
So Cal Enduro Series Race #7 Big Bear Team Big Bear MTB: XC, Enduro, DH Big Bear Lake
3 Saturday
So Cal Enduro Series Race #6 Team Big Bear MTB: XC, Enduro, DH
23-29 Multi
Haute Route: Mavic Rockies Colorado The Climate Ride ROAD: 255 miles SCa Boulder
___________________________________________________________________
Big Bear
SCa
Big Bear Lake ____________________________________________________
Day
Event Name Organizer TYPE: length
City, State
FEATURES
Location
Escondido
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Tri
___________________________________________________________________
LA River Ride Los Angeles LACBC ROAD: 2-100 miles SCa The Autry Museum
28 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
America's Most Beautiful Ride Lake Tahoe Bike the West ROAD: 35,72,100 miles SCa Hard Rock Hotel
July 2018
___________________________________________________________________
3-9 Multi
AIDS LifeCycle Daly City AIDS/LifeCycle ROAD: Tour NCa Cow Palace
17-22 Multi
Glacier Climate Ride Minnesota The Climate Ride ROAD: 255 miles SCa West Glacier
___________________________________________________________________
5 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 1st Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
17 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 2nd Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
5-12 Multi
Dude Girl Presents Cycling in Tuscany Italy Dude Girl MIXED: 8-day Tour Tuscany, Italy
21 Saturday
Green Valley Lake Aquathon RaceOC MTB: TBD
24 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 2nd Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
29-8 Multi
Big Bear Cycling Festival San Bernadino Big Bear Cycling Association FESTIVAL SCa Big Bear Lake
1-2 Multi
L'Etape California Folsom Le Tour de France ROAD: 60,90 miles NCa Folsom
31 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 2nd Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
7 Saturday
2018 UCC - Fiesta Island TT San Diego Bicycle Club ROAD: Time Trial
8 Sunday
Best Buddies Challenge San Simeon Best Buddies International ROAD: 15,30,60,100 miles NCa Hearst Castle
____________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
7 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
Escondido
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
12 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 1st Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
14 Thurs Quick n Dirty Summer Series 2018 Quick n Dirty MTB: Course Lake Hodges
Escondido
SCa
Escondido
MAGAZINE SUPPORTERS support our supporters COMPETITION events with posted participants and results ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GRAVEL ďŹ re roads, grinders and adventure rides TRIATHLON running, swimming, and biking BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES!
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
San Bernadino
SCa
Green Valley Lake ___________________________________________________________________
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Irvine Lake
Silverado
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
15-17 Multi
The Carson City Off-Road Epic Rides MTB: 17-50 miles Carson City
16 Saturday
Half Moon Bay Cycle For Life CF Cycle For Life ROAD: 20,40,100 kms
Nevada
Nv
___________________________________________________________________
Half Moon Bay
NCa
Del Mar Fairgrounds ____________________________________________________
The Ultimate Duel OBRA MTB: 23,62 miles
Oregon
Or
Cascade Lakes Highway ___________________________________________________________________
20
August
2018
4 Saturday
Tour de Big Bear Big Bear Cycling Association ROAD: 25-125 miles Big Bear Lake
San Bernadino
7 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 2nd Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
Irvine Lake
Silverado
SCa NCa
Nv
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA
OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA
Or Wa
Az
11 Sunday
Hotter N Hell Climb Mt. Baldy Back on Track Productions ROAD: 12 mile course SCa 2470 N Mountain Ave.
14 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 2nd Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
21 Tuesday
Over the Hump - 2nd Half of Series RaceOC MTB: TBD
Silverado
SCa
Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________
Irvine Lake
Sept.
Silverado
SCa
2018
___________________________________________________________________
San Diego
SCa
Fiesta Island ___________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
44th Annual Amtrak Century OCW ROAD: 100 miles
Irvine
SCa
Irvine Transportation Center ____________________________________________________
Tour de Fuzz Sonoma County ROAD: 100 miles Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa
NCa
SCa BICYCLIST Magazine
8 Saturday
OC MTB Limestone XC Race Orange OC MTB Races MTB: 12.3 mile course SCa Limestone Canyon
12-19 Multi
Dude Girl Presents Cycling in Tuscany Italy Dude Girl MIXED: 96 miles Tuscany, Italy
15 Saturday
Tehachapi Gran Fondo City of Tehachapi ROAD: 18-104 miles
22-23 Multi
Bike MS: Waves to Wine California National MS Society ROAD: TBD SCa Central Coast
22-29 Multi
California Coast Classic San Francisco Arthritis Foundation ROAD: 96 miles NCa San Francisco
29 Saturday
Share the Road Ride Soaring Spirits International ROAD: 18-104 miles
29-30 Multi
Golden State Fall Series Fontana Southridge Racing MTB: TBD SCa Southridge Park
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Tehachapi
SCa
Tehachapi Centennial Plaza ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
November 2018 1-3 Multi
Sagan Fondo: ROAD California Bike Monkey ROAD: TBA SCa TBA
3 Saturday
Bike/Taste the Coast Spectrum Sports ROAD: TBD
3-4 Multi
Golden State Fall Series Fontana Southridge Racing MTB: TBD NCa Southridge Park
17-18 Multi
27th Annual Challenge Fontana Southridge Racing MTB: TBD SCa Southridge Park
___________________________________________________________________
GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR
We do our best to comb the wild west of cycling event websites to get the information you need to make the most of your time in the saddle. We provide this comprehensive listing, without endorsement, but we ask that you support the events that support the magazine.
Oceanside
SCa
Oceanside Pier ___________________________________________________________________
SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date
NCa
Alamo Street ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
October 2018 13 Saturday
Tour of White Mountains Epic Rides MTB: TBD
14 Sunday
Los Angeles Tour de Cure Americans Diabetes Association ROAD: 20,40,100 kms
Arizona
Az
Los Angeles
SCa
Santa Fe Dam ____________________________________________________
20-21 Multi
Bike MS: Bay to Bay National MS Society ROAD: 50,70,100 miles Irvine Transportation Center
San Diego
SCa
Fiesta Island Rd. ___________________________________________________________________
Irvine
SCa
____________________________________________________
Golden State Fall Series Southridge Racing Family MTB: 255 miles Southridge Park
27 Saturday
Oceanside Double Century Mtn. High Cycling ROAD: 200 miles
Fontana
SCa
___________________________________________________________________
Oceanside
SCa
Oceanside Days Inn ____________________________________________________
Filthy 50+ MTB Ride with Benefits Escondido Quick n Dirty MTB: 30,50 miles SCa San Pasquel Staging Area
27-28 Multi
Phil's Cookie Fondo Camarillo Agent of Change ROAD: 32-113 miles SCa Camarillo Airport
___________________________________________________________________
BICYCLIST.xyz
Tri
SCa NCa
Nv
MAGAZINE SUPPORTERS support our supporters COMPETITION events with posted participants and results ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GRAVEL fire roads, grinders and adventure rides TRIATHLON running, swimming, and biking BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES! SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA
Or Wa
Az
OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA
NCa
Pinetop-Lakeside ___________________________________________________________________
UCC – Fiesta Island Time Trials UC Cyclery/SDBC ROAD: Time Trial
___________________________________________________________________
FEATURES
Loomis
Loomis Basin Brewery ___________________________________________________________________
Dirty 30(ish) Lakeside Quick n Dirty MTB: 30 miles SCa 13920 CA-67
City, State
www.bicyclist.events
Sacramento Cycle for Life CF Cycle for Life ROAD: TBD
8 Saturday
SUBMIT YOUR EVENT & view full calendar
7 Sunday
December 2018
Event Name Organizer TYPE: length Location
___________________________________________________________________
Simi Valley
Day
21
last page
A Dynamic Bike Fit Using Modern Technology Bike Coach Rick Schultz facilitiated a very informative analysis of the perfect sizing By Kelley O'Toole
LEFT Kelley set up on the GURU DFU as Rick explains the incremental changes that he is making and how it effects her pedaling. ABOVE The GURU DFU (Dynamic Fit Unit) is a technology based on providing a “dynamic bike fit” where angles, power and comfort are evaluated in real-time as you pedal under a load.
I
thought I had my bike all figured out. I thought that I, unlike the rest of the proletariat riders, was riding a bicycle that was perfectly fit to me. I didn't think I needed a fit. So when bike coach Rick Schultz offered me a complimentary bike fit I thought to myself, 'sure, why not? I bet I'll be the fastest bike fit client he's ever had’. On an afternoon, I drove over to Rick's garage at the top of hill in gorgeous San Clemente with my bicycle, bibs, jersey, cycling shoes, and socks. Rick rides regularly and frequently, and his favorite rides are usually with his daughter, Amy, who can easily keep up with him. Both father and daughter are passionate about health and fitness, and Rick often works alongside Amy and utilizes her expertise in Physical Therapy to further his knowledge and offerings of bike sizing and fitting. Rick is also a frequent test rider for Cervelo and a fitter for Team Simple Green, so his knowledge and experience handling bikes and fitting is immense. When I drove up to Rick's garage, I knew I'd be in the right hands for my first fit. After a friendly greeting by Rick's regal dog Max, he gave an overview and tour of his equipment that he uses for his clients. Rick uses 3 bike fitting/bike sizing machines including the GURU DFU (Dynamic Fit Unit), a Serotta Size Cycle, and a Computrainer. For the majority of the visit we used the GURU DFU which electronically adjusts the position of the stationary bike in small increments. It is a completely data driven program that focuses on things like power output and processes how this data can impact your performance. His garage looks like the lab of a very enthusiastic, cycling mathematician. From taking some of my measurements, I learned from Rick that even if you buy a bicycle in the manufacturer's recommended size bike, you still need to consider that 22
every body is proportioned differently and there is no way for them to give everyone a precise fit. To demonstrate this, Rick set me up on the GURU DFU bike, while he electronically controlled the positioning of the bike. Using a few calculations, Rick input my measurements into the software and it generated a positioning for my size. From there, Rick made seemingly minor, incremental changes and compared it to the amount of watts I was putting out. He also had a couple of cameras set up so that I could watch a live video feed that showed my posture and positioning on the bike. Based on the information Rick gave me, many of the measurements of my bike were good, but the glaring truth was that my crank arms were too long and my handlebars needed to be lifted. Rick has written about how crank arms that are too long can cause cyclist's knee pain, but I figured this wasn't the case for me because my knees felt fine. Nonetheless, my legs were pedaling in an unnatural position and my arms were hyper extended, so my power output wasn’t as great as it could be. When my watts increased dramatically on the screen as a result of Rick's adjustment, I knew that I had not had the perfect bike fit and been depriving myself of a better and more comfortable performance. At the end of the appointment, Rick provided a work sheet with a lot of numbers indicating the perfect size bike for me. That way when I buy my next bike, I can refer to the information Rick gave me and avoid the common scenario of spending a pretty penny on a bike that doesn't fit. On a follow-up email he also sent me a list of bikes that would fit me really well based on my measurements and results. In addition to performance-based services and fitting, Rick also offers high-end tech services including Di2 Installation/Di2 Upgrades, Di2 Firmware Updates and Programming, ROTOR Q-rings/QXL-rings Installation and correctly Indexing (re-regulation). Rick is one of the best in the business and sees the great value in making sure riders are not only strong on the bike, but also comfortable. He’s seen a great many folks resist cycling because they think that they are just not meant to ride a bicycle, but as Rick points out, “you don’t know what you don’t know.” That is to say, you don’t know how truly great you could feel riding if you’ve never been properly fit to your bicycle. ▲ To book your next fit or inquire about Rick's services, head to www.bikefitnesscoaching.com BICYCLIST Magazine
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