BICYCLIST Magazine #146

ISSUE 146 - EARLY WINTER 2017

MAGAZINE

BEYOND

Haute R oute Ventoux R A C IN G T O T HE MO O N FIRST LOOK

Oyama F olding Bikes A PA NO P LY O F DE S IGN A ND INNO VAT IO N ALSO

behind the curtain Interbike redux

legal cycling

Light Up Your Life

ask the coach club ride

BICYCLIST. xyz always free

Numb Hands

mesquite madness

gear patrol

castelli, walz

Contents

Inside this issue

COLUMNS 05 In Practice

Right Turns How can they go wrong?

Carl Lawton

08 Features

Issue 146 Early Winter 2017 Designed and printed in Southern California.

Read and distributed throughout the world.

REGULARS 04 Prologue 05 Analog/Digital 06 BPM 07 Ask the Coach 07 King's Cartoon 18 Gear Patrol 19 event calendar

Haute Route Ventoux An American rider in a French Race John Woodson

10 First Look

Oyama Bicycles Skyline IN7B & CX E8D Electric Chris Reynolds

12 Legal Cycling Light Up Your Life A Guide for Night Riders Richard Duquette

13 Behind the curtain Interbike Redux Small Brands Stand Out Bob Becker

22

10 Cover

14 Tour and Travel

Participants of the Haute Route Ventoux ride the long march to the top of the 'moon', Mont Ventoux in the Provence region of southern France. The 3-day stage race is open to amateurs and took place this past October. John Woodson, senior contributor, joined the action and details the ride on page 8.

Greenspeed GT20 A (Personal) Introduction Rob Templin

16 Dirt and Trail

Quest for the Silver Spike Carson City Off Road Richard Duquette

Photo by John Woodson

18 Asphalt, Please

Mesquite Madness Rolling the Dice Through 3 States John Woodson

22 Last Page

Rider Safety Visibility Oceanside Making Waves Chris Reynolds BICYCLIST.xyz

8 3

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

Early Winter 2017

O

MAGAZINE

ISSUE 146 - EARLY WINTER 2017

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 Duqette, Jerry King

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP

Chris Reynolds | Managing Director chris@bicyclist.xyz

READ/FOLLOW/LIKE

www.BICYCLIST.xyz @BICYCLISTxyz   /socalbicyclist 

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 the weekly cycling podcast, The BICYCLIST Experience. We also maintain the BICYCLIST Friendly Shop Locator, 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.

Visit BICYCLIST.xyz/editorial for guidelines and submission information.

Print copy subscriptions are $20 per year for delivery to the destination of your choice in the United States.

Art direction, layout and design performed in-house by Chris Reynolds.

For more information, visit www.BICYCLIST.xyz/subscribe

BICYCLIST

14252 Culver Drive Irvine, CA 92604 (949) 264-3346 BICYCLIST.xyz maildrop@BICYCLIST.xyz Designed and Printed in SoCal, USA Founded by Will Decker Published by Chris Reynolds Copyright © 1994-2017 All rights reserved.

DISCLAIMER Although all best efforts are made to avoid the

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.

ver the past couple of years, I've seen the downsides of overzealous encouragement of cycling. "Bicycling for all!"

"Ride with traffic!" "Share the road!" "Get out there and be one with your local city!" I often think about the responsibility that comes with encouraging people to ride their bikes, especially as it relates to their safety. While I believe the most profound tenet of cycling is self-reliance and the dovetail of self-accountability, I feel there is also a responsibility when introducing a new rider to cycling, to provide them the information and facts of safe riding. Getting someone excited about cycling, but without providing the knowledge to do so in a safe manner is setting them up for a bad experience.

Cycling has a history of providing a lackluster welcome to newcomers. The snobby shop mechanic is a trope that extends coast to coast. There are too many individuals for this mentality to be a conspiratorial or collective coldness, but instead, a symptom of an industry that has marched blindly forward without reflecting on the big picture of what cycling is and has become in the United States.

A good portion of this is due to the intrinsic difficulty of cycling.

The selection of a bike alone can be a daunting journey of blind trust, but the fitness required for regular bike riding combined with the courage to ride with automobiles creates a dividing line. Once this line has been cross, it's hard to look back over it and understand how it was on that side. Electric bikes are changing how people ride, and now is the time to look and reflect on what newcomers face in the cycling landscape. Reflect and understand that the health of the cycling industry in the US is immediately and precipitously tied to newcomers.

The perceived attitude that many newcomers face when joining a group of veteran riders is usually a mix of battle-weariness combined with a heavy dose of apathy. Riders who take their riding professionally (not to be confused with professional riders) are hesitant to encourage a sport that may require a deviation from the route. Call it the "beginners on the group ride? I'd rather go alone" mentality. Cycling in the U.S. has been a sport and pastime that attracts independent types, but that double-edged sword that helps our perseverance and dedication on the bike may be a hindrance, when off-bike. Now is the time to retract the quills and embrace all levels of cyclists, all types of cycling. Because lines are being drawn.

Cycling has the potential to become a legislative afterthought without the collective unity required to bring sustainable access and provisions for cyclists. To get there, road riders, start advocating for wilderness access for mountain bikes. Mountain riders, begin attending open streets events in your town. See the similarities within various cycling modes, rather than picking apart the differences.

To this focus of unity, we bring an issue that covers the collective gamut of cycling interests. Including trikes, the lightest electric folding bike we've laid hands on, ride reports from both dirt and pavement, and most excitedly, a dispatch from our man on the road, John Woodson, who brings us his story of experience at this years Haute Route Ventoux, the pro-am stage race that will be coming to a city near you in 2018. Speaking of 2018, the event calendar is filling up with road, mountain, race and recreational events throughout the western United States where will you go?

Rounding out the legislative and legal side of cycling, Carl Lawton, a LADOT representative speaks to frustrated cyclists in all of us and lays out the situations we may encounter on our roadways.

Richard Duquette explains the importance of lighting while riding. It goes beyond illumination and falls under litigation. Don't get caught in the dark.

See you on the route. Stay safe. Peace.

C hris R e ynold s

- Chris Reynolds, Editorial Director

4

BICYCLIST Magazine

In Practice

Analog/Digital

The BICYCLIST Experience Right Turn Gone Wrong?

A Weekly Cycling Podcast

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODES AT BICYCLIST.FM - FREE!

T

une in to our weekly 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!

97: Slipstream Rides On, Dangerous Hurricane Gains, Who's Wearing the Red Jersey, and the Women's WorldTour Winner

97 96: Aqua Blue Sport en Fuego, Fear Watts, Apologies, # notmyqueen, and Bike Shop Awards

96 95: Reigning in Kayle Leogrande, What Are We Drinking?, Steven Woolridge, Grand Tour Crowdfunding, Updates on Vuelta, and bike pumps in New York

95 94: Icarus Continued, Reddit for Cycling, UV Avoidance, BPM #7, Vuelta a Espana, Trump Nixes DC Bike Share

94 93: Icarus, Strong words from Landis, Desert Survival, and the World's Largest Bicycle Parking Garage

93

By Carl Lawton

"I’m sure that at one time or another you have all experienced a ‘close-encounter-of-the-worst-kind’ by a cager near you."

97:

Slipstream Sports rides on with the help from new sponsor, EF Education First. Brave cyclists make some gains in hurricane weather, but don't try this at home. We talk about the winner of the 2017 Vuelta a España and the winner of the Women's World Tour.

96: The RideArgyle effort continues,

updates on the Vuelta España, Cycling Weekly's forced apology, times to take shelter while riding, Justin's animal encounter, Interbike's shop awards and last year in Las Vegas, Tour of Britain news, and hill-climb gearing.

95:

Reigning in the scandals of Kayle Leogrande, what we are currently drinking, the loss of Steven Woolridge, a Grand Tour team begins Crowdfunding, updates on the Vuelta España, and free bike pumps in New York - how good is it?

94:

Icarus documentary revisited, tips on using Reddit successfully for cycling, protecting yourself from the sun, BPM #7 in BICYCLIST Issue #144, updates on the Vuelta a España, and Trump slashes bike programs from White House budget.

93:

We discuss the new Netflix documentary "Icarus", Floyd Landis interview with CyclingNews, couple goes missing in Joshua Tree, desert survival tips, and the world's largest bicycle parking garage is in Ultrecht.

LISTEN AT

BICYCLIST.FM BICYCLIST.xyz

considerations to make when making a right turn

Advocates say that wording matters, and the best way to communicate our rights while turning right includes signage that explicitly states the rules driving near bicyclists.

M

aking a right turn on a bike for most of us is the proverbial 'piece of cake' and as natural as breathing. Many may wonder what else there is to know about how to make a right turn? It's instinctive when you see a street coming up that you want to turn right onto that you line up your bike and turn into it. In a perfect world we would do exactly that because we would be the only ones on the road. Instead, we’re dealing with the not-so-perfect world full of danger, namely other road users we not-so-cooly call the ‘cagers’.

Cagers as we know are the car drivers who, for want of a better term, seem to suffer from a type of attention deficit disorder in that they are NOT very observant of their surroundings. Cagers come in all sorts of levels of attention deficit, from the occasional radio station seekers to the full blown cell phone scroller and texter who will not simply shut up and drive! They are some of the most dangerous drivers because they are known to crash their cars into buildings, trains garbage trucks, cars, and hapless bike riders and pedestrians. Most cagers are in a hurry these days to be someplace else, so that when you ride your bike near them they see it as a major inconvenience to give you the legal three feet of space while passing.

I’m sure that at one time or another you have all experienced a close-encounter-ofthe-worst-kind by a cager near you. Here is a common scenario, you’re riding down the road and getting ready to make a right turn at a familiar street, meanwhile a cager is just behind you in the adjacent vehicle lane to your left and he/she is preparing to make a passing maneuver on you. If you think the car is going straight on you may be dead wrong. The cager is impatient with your 20 mph speed and wants to speed it up by passing you, but here comes the street they are looking for to make a right turn and it’s fast approaching.

The cager steps on the gas to pass you, but now they have to slam on their brakes as they approach the stop sign, causing you to rear end the car. If you’re wearing a helmet you may escape with some facial bruises, if not you may suffer extensive head injuries.

I stress the fact that as a bike rider you must always be vigilant of your immediate surroundings and look behind you to make sure that noone is too close. Just because you don’t hear a car doesn’t mean its not there, after all it can be a silent electric car. Looking over your shoulder can save your life. ▲

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

5

BPM

Bicyclist Provisions Matrix #009 - CycloCross: Racer & Spectator Edition

THE GOODS TO MAKE YOUR CYCLOCROSS EXPERIENCE THE BEST IT CAN BE, ON THE COURSE OR FROM THE SIDELINES.

A DV ENTURE TIP Lis ten to t h e B I C YC L I S T E x p e r i e n c e weekly podcast to hear more about gear listed in this BPM. Visit BICYCLIST. XYZ and search the BRAND NAME to find more photos and purchase information.

Everyday 6

Race Day

Bike

Riese & Mueller $5,829

PURE CYCLES $749

Willier $3,499

STATE Bicycle Co. $999

KONA $4000

The Packster 40, cargo ebike

Adventure Pro, 18spd Disc ‘Abbot’

Cento 10 NDR, ‘Actiflex Technology’

CX, Aluminum single-Speed

superjake, Carbon, SRAM Force 1

NITERider $150

Seatylock $95

NOW $238

Paul Components $70

Castelli $250

LUMINA 1100 BOOST, OLED

Hardened steel, ‘Classic Green’

FURI ‘Race Orange’, 240g

Cross Lever, 26mm & 31.8mm

CX 2.0 Speedsuit

Road Runner Bags $70

Full-Windsor $59

Showers pass $80

Voler $95

Walz Caps $30

Burrito Supreme Bar Bag

Cycle Multi-tool

Ultralight Wind Jacket, 165g

California Bear Thermal Jersey

Lightweight Technical Cap, ‘Retro’

Tailwind $36

SILCA x ECOLOGIC DESIGN $160

Showers Pass $35

Adidas $210

Marti $42

endurance fuel, 50 servings

The Brooklyn Backpack

WP Socks, Artex Membrane Layer

Zonyk Pro, Built In Sweatblocker

Vintage R5 Mirror, New old stock

YETI $350

Thousand $78

Castelli $20

RUMPL $8

DRAFT ANIMALS $17

HOPPER TWO 30 ‘Field Tan/Orange’

Sweatshirt w/ Rear Pocket

Linea Belle Warming Cream, 100mL

Beer Blanket, 20D Ripstop Nylon

Phil Gaimon, Penguin Books

BICYCLIST BICYCLIST Magazine

ask the coach

Hand Numbness A common issue for riders

ANSWERED BY RICK SCHULTZ, USA CYCLING COACH USAC CERTIFIED

Q. What causes my fingers and hands to go numb when riding?

D

uring the past 4 years of bike fitting, 75% of my clients have expressed that hand numbness is a real issue they deal with while riding. I've found there to be 2 main possibilities for this. From speaking with cyclists who contend with this issue, 50% are impacted from applying too much pressure on their hands and the other 50% are wearing their jerseys too tight; sometimes the numbness can be a combination of both. If you suffer from hand numbness don’t worry, you are not alone.

Try These

Vary Your Hand Position. Periodically place your hands in a different position while you are riding. Try moving your hands to the hoods, keep your hands on the drops, or rotate one hand at a time to the outside of your palm and rest it on the handlebar. You can even flex your fingers/ hands open and closed if that helps. If you are a little unsteady on your bicycle, steadily move your hands to a different position one at a time. That way you will always have at least one hand in a stable position on the handlebars at all times.

Wear Gel-Padded Gloves. A perfectly designed glove is the Ultra Gel by Performance Bike. Any glove from Giro (i.e., LX) will have a similar design. Look for a glove that has a recessed ‘pocket’, and some that will protect your nerves and arteries from getting pinched. For more comfort, search out a glove that has a thicker padding.

Add a Double-Layer of Handlebar Tape. Here is a tape trick that no one really does, but that really works for hand pain: Next time you need to wrap your handlebars, buy 2 packages of handlebar tape (4 rolls in total). Set 2 full rolls aside to be used for each side of the handlebar. Take the 3rd roll and cut it exactly in half so you end up with 2 half rolls. Take one of the half pieces and, starting at the back of the hoods, wrap the tape around the handlebar until you get to about 1-2” from the stem. Repeat for the other side. Once complete, you should have only the top of the bars covered with new tape. Using one of the full-length pieces, wrap tape around the bars as normal. Once complete, the tops of the bars will have double padding and be very comfortable on the hands.

Get a Bike Fit. Sitting on a bicycle is like sitting on a teeter-totter, if the stem is too low, your weight is shifted forward and onto your hands, arms, shoulders and neck. When the stem is raised, your weight goes back onto your saddle, removing weight from your hands, arms, shoulders and neck. So, a pro-level bike fit is the way to go if you want maximum comfort in your riding position.

Temporary Treatments for numbness

Here are solutions for treating numbness due to pressure. Move down the list depending on the severity of your symptoms: R.I.C.E – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation Oral or Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.

Wrist Splinting – a wrist splint might help as it gives your wrist support and adds compression to your wrist and hands.

Consult your Doctor - For severe nerve injury, surgical decompression of the nerves may be needed.

I’ve noticed my fingers going numb some of the time. It’s always the same course, same bike, same riding style, same position, but the only thing that was different was the cycling kit, specifically the jersey. In one instance, my jersey felt a little tight so I reached under my right armpit and pulled on the jersey to give it a little slack. Immediately the numbness in my right hand and fingers went away. I found that the elastic in the jersey compresses the brachial artery and ulnar nerve causing your hands and fingers to go to sleep. Next time one of your hands and/or fingers go numb, reach under your armpit and stretch out the jersey a little. I have told this to all my bike fit clients, and half of them have replied that this is the cause of their numbing. I hope this article helps you attain more comfort while cycling so that you can better enjoy the sport. ▲

Coach Rick Schultz is an avid cyclist who trains, races and coaches in SoCal. Coach Schultz is a USA Cycling Level 2 coach. Rick is now a Peaks Coaching Group cycling coach specializing in power-based training. Learn more at bikefitnesscoaching.com.

Send your questions to coach@BICYCLIST.xyz BICYCLIST.xyz

“Jim is here to teach us about bicycle safety. This time I'll pay attention."

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!

SIGN UP FOR THE BICYCLIST WEEKLY NEWSLETTER AND RECEIVE A NEW CARTOON PANEL FROM JERRY KING EVERY WEEK - FREE!

BICYCLIST.xyz 7

RIDE REPORT

Haute Route Ventoux "IMAGINE A PICTURE-PERFECT, END-OF-SEASON, PRO-LIKE STAGE RACE FOR THE TIME-CRUNCHED CYCLIST" Writing and photography by John Woodson

Stage 1: Mistral Madness Bédoin – Gordes – Sault – Mont Ventoux 106km, +2900m Climbs: Trois Terme 9km 4%, Liguière 10km 6%, Ventoux 25km 5% The day begins with a bit of logistical madness courtesy of Provence’s legendary Mistral wind ( a strong, cold, northwesterly wind that blows from southern France into the Gulf of Lion in the northern Mediterranean) that blew 150k/hr on Ventoux. For safety, the stage finish is moved just below the summit, but that still leaves 100km of riding with the Mistral.

From the start, a tailwind pushed us down narrow lanes, through villages rich in cycling culture and passed century-old vineyards. Negotiating roundabouts and road furniture adds excitement, especially at 50km/hr. With the colorful peloton strung out ahead and behind as far as the eye can see, it’s a breath-taking sight.

The tailwind section was short lived. As we turned into the Mistral winds and climbed Trois Terme, we begin to suffer like dogs. For me, the suffering didn't stop for 80km. That cold Mistral wind is relentless, painful and demoralizing, it pushed me around like a cork in the sea. Riding in a group to conserve energy is paramount and the smart thing to do - of course, I’m not that smart. After getting dropped just before the town of Sault, I suffered mightily for my stupidity.

A few endless solo kilometers later I catch #32, Christian Dunand of France. He doesn’t speak English and I don’t speak French, but we share a common language – teamwork. Without a spoken word we took turns pushing into the Mistral, working together as a team. This is the spirit of the Haute Route, strangers coming together to help one another reach the finish. It’s a godsend.

In Sault we start climbing Ventoux, passing trees with red, yellow and orange hues of autumn.

Continuing our silent teamwork, Christian and I climbed “on the rivet.” An hour later, and none too soon, we cross under the finish banner in 76th and 77th place. With ear-to-ear smiles and sweat dripping from our brows we pat each other on the back, both thankful Stage 1 is fait accompli.

Riders prepare at the starting line in Bédoin. Each stage starts in the town and finishes with one of three Mount Ventoux ascents, a mountain in the Provence region of southern France.

ount Ventoux, or the Géant of Provence, is a mythical mountain with endless steep grades, strong winds and a barren moon-like summit. From Pro Tour riders to the most trained weekend warrior, the mountain strikes fear into all who dare to ascend.

Those with common sense stay clear, but that’s not me, or the 400 other riders at the inaugural 3-day Haute Route Ventoux.

Organized by the same folks who put on the 7-day Haute Route Alps, Pyrenees and Rockies, Ventoux offers the same Pro-like experience on and off the bike in a perfect 3-day weekend format.

Based in the quaint French village of Bédoin the route covers 270km with 7800m of climbing, including three ascents of Ventoux. Think of it as a picture-perfect, end-of-season, Pro-like stage race for the time-crunched rider.

M

Stage 2: The Good, The Bad, and The ‘Ed’ Bédoin – Sault – St Auban – Malaucene – Ventoux 141km, +3300m Climbs: Aulan 8km 3%, Peyruergue 4.5km, 5%, Ey 5km, 4%, Ventoux 21km 7.3% It was a good day for a Queen stage on the second day with the crisp morning air, clear blue skies, no wind and the forecast high of 19C. Our route was a long counter-clockwise loop through the lumpy Provence countryside before heading up to the summit via Malaucene.

I started at the back, riding with numerous groups for the first hour. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet riders, share stories and enjoy stunning scenery. Rolling up the impressive Gorges de la Nesque with its limestone walls, sheer drop-offs and hand-cut tunnels is breathtaking.

Plus, it helps me warm-up for the first climb, Col d’ Aulan.

Winding up a narrow canyon on a one-lane road outside picturesque Montbrun-les-Bains

Along the road on Saint Estève, riders got to see the remnants from the earlier Tour de France painted across the shoulders by fans. The Haute Route Ventoux falls in early October of each year and follows part of the Tour de France.

8

BICYCLIST Magazine

challenge. Like Ed, most Haute Route riders set personal goals to challenge and motivate them.

Today I want to make the summit in 105 minutes.

With each km marked by roadside monuments, I only focus on getting from one to the next.

In a 39x29 tapping out a smooth steady rhythm I feel pretty good, even catching a few riders from Mexico who cheer me on, calling my name or maybe calling me names…in either case it helps. At 10km the road pitches up to 12% for 3km without reprieve. Now pedaling squares in a herky-jerky manner with tunnel vision and hard breathing the roadside monuments can’t come soon enough.

Eventually, the end is in sight with Ventoux’s iconic white and red tower coming into view.

I dig deep, very deep. We’re talking Grand Canyon deep and attack the final 500m with a vengeance. Crossing under the Haute Route summit banner in 102 minutes and beating my goal feels incredible, like I’m on top of the world - or at least Ventoux. There’s no place else I’d rather be. With a superb effort Ed is also riding high, sitting in 95th overall.

Stage 3: Living the Dream Bédoin – Mont Ventoux 21km, +1600m

In Sault we start climbing Ventoux, passing trees with the red, yellow, and orange hues of autumn. this climb thrills the senses at every turn. It's a real treat to see steep canyon walls and forest trees looming above us. By the top I settle in with a group including #139, Ed Milnes out of the UK. He starts the day in 103rd overall with a goal breaking into the top 100.

At the top of Col de Peyruegue an aid station lures some riders away. I roll on. Ed wavers, should I stay or should I roll? He opts to follow as we carve our way down the mountain, passing apricot orchards and through a series of hairpin turns.

But soon the thrill is gone – for me. With a rear puncture I stand by the side of the road.

Although Mavic’s bright yellow motos and cars chock-full of spare wheels and bikes are usually within sight, they aren’t now. The only thing I see is bad luck. Ten minutes later I fix the puncture and I’m back on the road.

The climb up Ventoux from Malaucene might not be the most well know, but with 21km at 7.3% it is certainly epic. No matter who you are, the long painful grind to the summit is a

The race of truth. Just you against the clock. And gravity. And wind.

Ventoux’s classic time trial route is short, but offers the most difficult ascent, the most famous too. Although the climb averages 7.5%, the devil is in the details: 5km at 4% through the countryside, 10km at 10% in the forest and finally 6km at 8% over barren slopes. Today, with the last 6km eliminated due to high wind, staying focused in the forest is the key to success.

At 9:42 a.m. I roll down the start ramp in Bédoin through village streets lined with locals cheering. A gentle uphill helps me warm-up and find a nice rhythm. At Saint Estève curve it’s game on, or more like game up. The grade quickly changes from “this isn’t too bad” to “oh shite, 10k of this?” It’s a mental battle now. Trying to think of something, anything, to keep my mind off the suffering I stare down at the road. The answer is right there - Tour de France road art.

Painted from shoulder to shoulder are words of encouragement, rider names and team logos from the Tour de France. It’s everywhere. It’s motivating. Big names like NIBALI, BARDET, FROOME and VOEKLER help take my mind off the pain. “BRAILSFRAUD” gets a chuckle while “VDB” reminds how some face challenges much bigger than Ventoux.

Surrounded by thick trees and dappled light it’s a surreal sight. The only sound comes from chains, heavy breathing and an occasional sheep bell in the forest. Everyone, and I mean everyone, suffers in silence.

In a cross-eyed daze I imagine my name on the asphalt as 10,000 fans line the road, scream my name, take turns pushing me forward – a lot. Soon I round the final corner and surge across the finish line, finishing in 65 minutes.

I’m exhausted, completely spent. Left it all on the course, just like a Pro. It’s a great feeling – even if it only lasts for a day, or three. That’s the magic of the Haute Route. ▲ Note: For 2018 the Haute Route is adding several new 3-day events including San Francisco, Asheville and Utah in the United States plus Stavanger, Norway and the classic Stelvio in Italy. What’s on your bucket list? Cheers

All the riders suffer in silence. The only sound comes from chains, heavy breathing, and an occasional sheep bell in the forest.

BICYCLIST.xyz

9

FIRSTLOOK

oyama Cycles SKYLINE IN7B

More Photos?

Writing and photography by Chris Reynolds

Visit BICYCLIST.xyz

 Oyama

Specifications FRAME FORK SHIFTING CRANKSET BRAKES WHEELS TIRES SADDLE PEDALS WEIGHT WARRANTY COLOR PRICE

10

Aluminum alloy, 20″ foldable Chromoly steel Shimano Nexus, 7-speed internal Yaxing HX 1, belt-drive Radius V-brake 20 inch, aluminum alloy Schwalbe Big Apple 20 Oyama road saddle Oyama folding pedals 13.5 kg (29.7 lbs) 5 Year Sun Yellow $800

BICYCLIST Magazine

CX E8D ELECTRIC

O

yama has been building bicycles for more than 50 years and has developed a competency in folding designs for the last 30 years. The bikes were only available in China and Taiwan, but in early 2017, Foldaway Solutions, a U.S. business whose owners are veterans of the folding market partnered with Oyama to bring the high quality bikes stateside. The partnership is a win for consumers, with a lightweight and compact Skyline IN7B 7-speed belt-drive folder for $800. When the expectation of a folding bike is to store in a trunk, or alongside your person while traveling, a greasy-chain and exposed derailleur can be burdensome and antithetical to the compact design. The Skyline solves this, with a combination belt-drive and Shimano internal-hub providing a welcomed refinement to the 20-inch wonder.

Another offering that caught our eye was the Oyama CX E8D, an aluminum alloy folder that has a secret. The E8D provides a more luxurious and easier ride, humming along on burly Kenda 2.3 tires. It also helps that it has a 250-watt Aikema 250W rear-hub motor matched with a 36V, 10Ah battery tucked into the frame. The Class 1 folder has a range of around 30 miles per charge, just enough to flatten out the hills or shorten the BICYCLIST.xyz

distance of your local commute. With fenders and rack included, as well as a 5 year warranty on the bike and 2 year warranty on the battery, the $1300 price tag is a welcome addition to an otherwise vacant price-point; and at 38 pounds, it's a rare air in the electric bike landscape.

These t wo models are just a few of the voluminous number of folding bicycles that Oyama produces. The product catalog demonstrates their understanding of the folding-bicycle customer in their homeland, and the innovations that are unique to the bikes set them apart. Throughout the design, the commitment to quality and attention to details comes through. Small considerations are the key, like painting the interior areas of the frame so when folded match the color of the frame, rather than the color of overspray mixed with primer.

The shaping and ergonomics of the handle release folding mechanism is sturdy, yet easily responds with a quick one-handed manipulation of the latch-lock. Even the pedals are purpose-built, with a clever mechanism that releases the pedal to fold onto itself. These are the small details that come together to demonstrate the competency and refinement Oyama brings to the scene of folding and electric bikes. â–˛

ABOVE The Oyama CXE8D is an $1300 folding bike with a surprise-it's electric, with a range of 30 miles and top speed of 20mph. LEFT For the analog types among us, the Skyline IN7B is a quality folding bike that leaves little to be desired, with a belt-drive that is at home on a commuting bike.

Specifications FRAME Aluminum alloy, 20" foldable FORK Chromoly steel SHIFTING Shimano Altus, 8-speed dĂŠrailleur BATTERY 36 Volt , 10 Ah MOTOR Aikema AKM-13 / 250W brushless rear hub RANGE Up to 30 miles TYPE Crank pedal assist, Class 1 (20 mph, no throttle) BRAKES Tektro, 160mm Disc Brakes WHEELS 20 inch TIRES Kenda 20x2.3 SADDLE Oyama road saddle PEDALS Oyama folding pedals WEIGHT 37.8 pounds (16.9 kg) COLOR Silver WARRANTY 5 Years (bike), 2 years (battery) PRICE $1,300 11

Legal Cycling

Light Up Your Life

Rules & reasons for bright lights AVOID COSTLY LEGAL EXPERIENCES AND STAY SAFE ON YOUR NEXT RIDE

By Richard Duquette, 911law.com Rear lighting requires a red reflector that is visible from 500 feet away.

You might check an auto parts store or any bicycle shop to find one. Make sure that your backpack, any other clothes, or your seat does not obscure any rear lighting. The problem that I have seen in this area is that the bicyclist still unintentionally covers their light and an approaching motorist cannot see them.

Your pedals must have white reflectors.

People often change pedals. If you’re one of them, then I suggest that you wear day glow white ankle reflector straps so that you can be seen at 200 feet. You can also attach a light to your leg. Those ankle band reflectors should be used on both legs, if you are not going to be using pedals with reflectors.

In terms of wheels, the focus is the front of center and the rear of center. You must have white or red reflectors in those areas.

Some people will illuminate their sidewall tires. Alternatively, put reflective tape on your forks or tubing. You might want to consider a spoke reflector system or reflectors in your spokes. If you don’t have a reflector in your spokes, make sure that you have a reasonable alternative.

Your clothes should illuminate as well.

Wear reflective clothes that light up and illuminate at night.

Don’t rely on the elements to illuminate your path, make sure that you are brightly visible under any and all circumstances.

P

eople are finding many ways to improve their health, which includes bicycle commuting. Consequently, we are seeing more and more people commuting by bicycle in the dark. It is important to consider safety during night riding because motorists that fail to see them injure many bicycle riders.

Under California Vehicle Code §21201, “darkness” is defined as half an hour before dark, or half an hour before sunrise, or when visibility is less than 100 feet (i.e. fog). During winter in San Diego, sunrise is at about 6:34 am and sunset is at about 4:42 pm, which means it is dark for motorists on their way home from work. Not only should you have at least one bright light on your bike for safety reasons, but you also need them for legal reasons as well.

If you are a bicyclist and you comply with the law regarding night time riding and you are involved in an accident you will avoid an insurance industry claim that you’re partially at fault or are contributory negligent. The insurance company will try to reduce the value of your case by claiming that you are partially at fault, so complying with the law is even most important in the case of collisions with motorists.

what equipment is legal?

California Vehicle Code §21201 essentially lays out several rules that the nighttime bicyclist must follow. They are as follows: In terms of the front end, the front light of the bicycle must be seen from 200 feet away and from the front side.

I suggest that you securely mount the light on your bicycle handlebars pointed out ahead of you so that oncoming cars can actually see you and you can see ahead when riding at a normal speed. You can also “back up” your front light with the light on your helmet, thereby illuminating what oncoming motorist directly in front of you can see. An issue that I see with a light on the helmet is that if your head is turned, then so is your light, faced away from oncoming traffic. For that reason, I would suggest a helmet light only as a back up to a front mounted light for night riding.

In terms of the type of lights you want to use, there is a variety. A HID light is bluer in color, whereas an LED light is whiter and may last longer. You might consider the LED light because it throws off a lot of light and there is some side spill to it. Also consider looking at the Night Rider TriNewt Lithium Light.

Keep in mind the story of the triathlete mother and the dangers of riding at night, or what I call the David and Goliath situation, in which a woman hit a 4x4 wood beam negligently left in a bicycle lane while riding her bicycle near a construction site at night.

Anything can happen

The triathlete and mother of two went out for a training ride on her bicycle after work, but crashed into large wood timbers left straddling the marked bicycle lane. She flew over the handlebars and fractured her elbow (the radius head). Her expensive halogen headlamp did not illuminate the road in time as the wood beams blended into the road that night.

The wood nuisance was primarily caused by Carlsbad Developers who ran about the sloppy construction site. They failed to supervise, inspect and secure wood beams used on the job site. Investigation determined that even a local resident complained about the sloppy job site debris that blocked the bike lane, and the sidewalk – forcing the resident and his dog to walk out into the street for fear of tripping.

The brave triathlete/mother, refused to give up when the defendant developer ignored reasonable settlement demands. Ultimately this forced a flurry of legal action and finger pointing between the sub-contractors. Instead of taking responsibility and prorating the settlement funds, the defendants stonewalled. When the dust settled the bicyclist recovered a modest five-figure settlement. ▲

Takeaways for the road and trail Reduce your speed when riding at night so that you have time to react when your lights illuminate a danger.

Document any falls. Take photos of the debris and connect it the culprit. i.e. use your smart phone to get pictures on the spot!

File complaints via e-mail or letter with the City if you see a dangerous condition.

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

REGulars

Interbike redux

Asked and Answered at Interbike 2017 THE LAST YEAR IN LAS VEGAS BRINGS ME INNOVATIONS FROM ACROSS THE CYCLING LANDSCAPE

By Bob Becker & Chris Reynolds MAGNUM - A very competent no-frills $2200, 28 mph e-MTB with a 500w Bafang rear hub motor. The bike rode well and has a power to price ratio that could satisfy many palates.

PIVOT CYCLES - The longest line at the Dirt Demo was at the Pivot booth as Chris Cocalis shows that he knows more about suspension dynamics than anyone in the industry. The couch jockeys grumbled when they heard that he introduced a $10,000 e-MTB at Eurobike, but it didn’t influence the crowd of actual riders. By the way, anyone heard from Titus Cycles lately?

FOCUS - Main attraction at their booth was a prototype e-road bike they will formally introduce in Europe next year. Reportedly, the bike weighs less than 30 pounds. Enduro-bros not pleased.

BURLEY DESIGN - Their first single-wheel trailer, available early next year, has a variablewidth yoke and can fit most bikes from 126mm road bikes to 190mm fat bikes. The trailer can carry up to 70 pounds of gear and is perfect for bikepacking. (Pictured BELOW) FIX MANUFACTURING - Tony Zentil produces the ingenious Wheelie, a high quality mini-tool which incorporates the tools necessary for road or trail repairs and can be incorporated into a belt for easier carrying. Fix is located in Laguna Beach.

ABOVE The most innovative product we saw this year was the Tern GSD (Get Stuff Done) , a middrive, dual battery cargo e-bike. Range? 155 miles. Top speed? 20 mph. Load? 400 pounds! GTD GSD

T

he 2017 version of Interbike, the last year in Las Vegas for the near future, was a subdued affair as a plethora of exhibitors stayed home reportedly in order to await next year in Reno. In attendance, the BICYCLIST crew examined bikes, food and clothing at both the Dirt Demo and the expo, compared notes and compiled our list of brands that caught our eye, and answered questions from our previous Interbike pondering in last issue, #145.

OTSO CYCLES - Wolf Creek entered the bike scene a few years ago with beautifully sculpted drivetrain components. Otso, their bicycle subsidiary, may be poised to make a bigger splash with a 25 pound, $3100 carbon fat bike or its more expensive 22 pound with dropper-post stablemate.

SURFACE 604 - The small Canadian manufacturer of e-bikes has a sure winner with a camouflage $2100, 750w, e-fat bike that hunters are snapping up like geckos at a cricket convention. Deer, beware!

BOSCH – The industry leader in mid-drives was first in line again with a new motor that was 25 percent lighter while being more powerful. Additional improvements to the control and power-band tuning were noticeable on the demo track when compared to the previous iteration.

OYAMA – Entering the U.S. market after 50 years in business with an attractive line of folding bikes. (See page 10 for a look at the Skyline IN7D and their $1300 e-folder, E6XD) Lizard Skins – The new owner of Oury Products had a large display that was “filled to the gills.”

Finally, we wedged our way into it and discovered they were selling their excellent products at enormously discounted prices.

That’s it for another year of Interbike. There were many companies that didn’t offer anything new. Rather than comment on their apparent stagnancy, we’ll modify the old adage to “what didn’t happen in Vegas, can stay in Vegas.” ▲

BUDDY BIKE - Shelley Patterson continues her one-woman crusade to provide bikes that modestly- challenged individuals can ride with their loved ones, and we recommend this product for anyone with progeny or friends that qualify. She proves that one can be an entrepreneur and a credit to the industry simultaneously.

HENTY - Exhibited a well thought out fanny pack with shoulder straps. Minimalist in size, but not capacity and very comfortable to wear. Includes hydration bladder and plenty of storage space. (Pictured RIGHT) YAMAHA - The unveiling of their new line of e-bikes, which promised to be the highlight of the show, didn’t materialize as there were bikes to ogle, but not ride. Reportedly when they’re released in mid-2018, the prices will make the industry, especially those companies using Yamaha motors, gasp.

M1 SPORTECHNIK - The German manufacturer of world record holding skis and surfboards was supposed to have their $10,000 45 mph full suspension e-MTB’s at the dirt demo; we didn’t test them, but anticipate they’ll have a difficult time introducing their bikes into the US market.

TERN - The innovative folding bike provider surprised everyone with the GSD, a mid-drive cargo bike that rode beautifully and could be stored vertically, reducing the amount of space required for it markedly. While its weight precludes taking it up stairs for any but the very strong, it will fit in an elevator easily. ( Pictured ABOVE) BICYCLIST.xyz

LEFT Henty, an Australian company, was introducing a smart combination of storage and hydration. Focused on the MTB and enduro segment, the breath-ability and singlehanded accessibility make it quite unique. ABOVE Burley raised the bar a significant amount with the introduction of their bikepacking cargo hauler. The adjustable width yoke allows installation on a wide variety of bikes, and the rear suspended wheel will absorb even the gnarliest drops.

13

Tour and travel

Breaking Into Three Wheels a (PERSONAL) INTRODUCTION TO THE Greenspeed Gt20 TRIKE

By Rob Templin

“This is a review I didn’t want to have to write, really, and there is a very good back story for that sentiment.”

L

ast summer I had a life-changing crash on my road bike that put me in the hospital for a week with a broken neck, and included an 8-hour surgery to fuse the C1-3 vertebrae. All things considered, I’m lucky and blessed not to be in a wheelchair. I initially didn’t realize how serious my injuries were and actually let a good Samaritan give me a ride home from the crash site. But after lying on my bed for a few minutes - with no one else around at this point, I realized I was in big trouble and called 911 from my cell still in my back jersey pocket. The neurosurgeon was dumbfounded that I had been moved from the crash site, and hadn’t ended up paralyzed.

Originally, I had planned on returning to my road bike after recovery and physical therapy but the fusion surgery severely limited my head movement to such an extent that I couldn’t hold my head up for any length of time on a conventional road bike. And the decline in my right-left head movement was 50% less than normal (the C1-2 vertebrae control much of a person’s neck movement).

After 40-plus years of touring globally, regularly commuting, and racing in USCF I-II road events, and various ultra competitions like solo RAAM four times, it looked like my cycling days might be over. My personal goal of reaching a million lifetime miles was in jeopardy, even having completed close to 900,000 miles already. The number of days over the past decades that I didn’t do something cycling related is less than 30.

With the idea that I may never cycle again, I got a call from a friend in the industry who wondered if I would be interested in doing a review of a new model Greenspeed recumbent trike he had become familiar with. I hadn’t really thought too much about trikes as being a serious alternative to traditional road cycling, but I jumped at the chance to learn more.

FIRST ENCOUNTER

A week later, I received delivery of the Greenspeed GT20, a new model for the Australian company, and my education of tricycles commenced. While most of my cycling has been on traditional road machines, tandems, or my folding Bike Friday for travel, I did have some experience with two-wheel recumbents from my days as a partner of Burley Design Cooperative (when they still produced recumbents and tandems out of Eugene, Oregon).

One of my Burley roles (besides sales) was working as a public relations liaison with various editors at a wide range of cycling publications - usually doing epic rides on a Burley tandem (such as the White Rim trail in Utah in one day). I even got an opportunity to ride on a Burley tandem at the Solvang Century over a decade ago. It was a great gig that included lots of travel to major cycling events like Ragbrai, Hotter ‘n Hell 100, recumbent/tandem rallies, and more, but my experience with trikes has been non-existent.

Upon receiving the GT20, I was pleasantly surprised that this machine was well made and designed – definitely not the beach-cruiser trike I had envisioned. Just as important, I was being given back a little bit of the freedom that all of 14

us experience with our first rides on two (now three) wheels.

It’s difficult to put a price on the feeling of the wind on your face when you move down the road under your own power.

Many of us can recall how much our first bikes gave us the opportunity to explore and ‘escape’ the local neighborhood.

When I got on the GT20 for the first test ride, I felt like a kid again; and with every additional ride, my quality of life improved dramatically as I got back some of that freedom I thought I lost in the crash. The stability and comfort of Greenspeed’s GT20 recumbent trike was impressive right out of the box. I realize that many experienced recumbent riders already understand the advantages and comfort of a seated recumbent position, but for someone new to the trike category it offered me a shot at starting a new chapter in my cycling career.

“Over the years, I’ve had to remind a few of my cycling friends on their high-zoot carbon fiber wonders and full ‘racing’ kit that while recumbents might look strange, we’re all part of the same cycling community.”

I wasn’t quite sure how folks in many of the cycling groups I previously rode with would ‘accept’ a trike as valid transportation or as a recreational vehicle. Even in my Burley days, when I would hit the road to promote our recumbents or tandems at various events, recumbents would often get a mixed reception from the ‘serious’ cycling crowd. I learned on many events that my presence on a recumbent wasn’t always welcome in some of the packs of riders, and because recumbents were considered ‘slow’ by some of the roadies with an attitude (you know the type), I delighted all the more in being able to keep up with many of the fastest packs. Even if begrudgingly by some, at that time, the Burley recumbent started to receive respect as the week progressed.

A REASONABLE ALTERNATIVE

Ever since my Burley days, I understood and appreciated the many reasons someone might opt for a recumbent cycling alternative - including health or comfort issues. Over the years, I’ve had to remind a few of my cycling friends on their high-zoot carbon fiber wonders and full ‘racing’ kit that while recumbents might look strange, we’re all part of the same cycling community. Some of ‘em never got or understood this message.

This philosophy towards all forms of cycling - as I step up on the proverbial soap box - has never changed over my 45 plus years of riding. I truly believe that it’s important to have respect for all of the many variety of cycle options available these days and everyone is considered a ‘cyclist’ in my book. I’d much prefer to ride in traffic with as many drivers as possible that also consider themselves cyclists. And now, it was my turn to experience the other side of this ‘alternative’ cycling spectrum.

I was a bit surprised - shocked actually - by the enthusiastic response of the general public to the GT20 trike. I’ve never been approached by so many strangers with questions or compliments about my ride as I had with the Greenspeed trike. Even my junior high school nephews, who can be pretty selective when it comes to what’s ‘cool’, saw my trike as ‘sick’, which I think is a good thing [Ed. It is]. It’s been a treat to be able to once again ride with my nephews during summer break.

But if you’ve been riding trikes or recumbents long enough, I’m probably not telling you anything new. With every new ride on the GT20, I also began to appreciate the quality build of the frame and commonsense component spec.

I travel a standard 40-plus mile loop near my home for most of my test/review rides as it allows me to compare the ride characteristics and performance of various bikes under similar conditions, including weather. Generally, I have the luxury of putting in 1,000 to 2,000 miles on any bike before putting together a review. I also take the opposite approach

The Greenspeed GT20 is an aluminium frame trike that offers an alternative cycling position and stability for cyclists that would not otherwise be able to continue turning pedals on a traditional bicycle.

BICYCLIST Magazine

APPLICATION

to some reviewers by not looking too closely at the spec or manufacturer’s promotional materials until I’ve finished my period of test rides.

Being new to this style of bike, I don’t have the years of experience many have, but that also allows me to come into a review like this with a clean slate, without any preconceived ideas or biases of what a trike should be.

NUTS AND BOLTS

The weight of the Greenspeed G20 was impressively light (37 lbs) and stiff, no doubt due to the use of aluminum alloy 7005 tubing and a new frame design from Greenspeed. The weight is not bad for a trike that also easily folds. For some folks, a ‘stiff’ frame isn’t always a positive but as Greenspeed notes, “mechanical suspension (popular on many current trike designs) inevitably adds weight which you feel at the first stroke of the pedals.” It’s a design philosophy that I found spot-on for a high-performance machine like this. Being lean myself (Greenspeed touts the GT20 as a “leaner, meaner machine”), I appreciate having every bit of power that I put into a bike’s pedals not being wasted.

The GT20 doesn’t totally lack the comfort that some riders seek with mechanical suspension, using what Greenspeed terms ‘virtual suspension’: they spec custom (and recently redesigned) Scorcher 120 tires - helping to blunt some of the initial road shock from reaching the rider; a frame designed with a bit of built-in flex; and a seat laced with shock cord (and with the frame being anodized instead of being powder coated, the seat fabric moves more easily on the frame).

Having plenty of experience and miles riding on Burley’s recumbents many years ago, I was prepared for a sore backside, or what some call, ‘recumbent butt’. But after just a few rides, I found the seat incredibly comfortable with a break-in period of less than a week. I later learned that much of this comfort is intentional, and designed by a chiropractor with both lumbar and shoulder support.

For someone new to the trike scene, I found the ease of (quick release) adjustments with many aspects of the GT20 critical to my quick adaptation to a recumbent trike: seat angle and height takes seconds to dial in (making it very uncomplicated to try different positions for optimal performance), changing the frame size is a breeze (the boom clamp is an external clamp, rather than part of the frame) for a wide range of X-seams, even handlebar width can be customized.

The only adjustability issue I faced was with tightening the handlebar QR levers – they required a lot of leverage and force to close ‘em so that they wouldn’t move. I would imagine that with some easy modifications you could make the clamping surfaces grip better to minimize any kind of movement so as not to have to use extreme force to shut tightly.

I wish the Chain Gobbler ($149 option), a special device that automatically adjusts the chain length as the crank extension is moved in or out, was a stock component.

Since I was ‘passing around’ the trike among various riders to play with, the Chain Gobbler was essential to keeping modifications easy, simple and quick. I’m not sure why anyone would want a trike like the G20 without this nifty feature. For dealers, of course, this is a no-brainer accessory for test rides.

GEOMETRY AND HANDLING

The GT20 is built around a completely new frame design from Greenspeed: a rectangular cross section main tube and curved cross member with no welds. The one piece curved crossed member is supposed to make mounting or dismounting easier, but at 61 years young, I’m still a bit of a klutz and found myself always a bit challenged getting into or out of the GT20.

Obviously, moving from a traditional road bike to a trike had me concerned with handling and steering control.

I had nothing to worry about, as it turns out, with what BICYCLIST.xyz

The GT20 folds up for easy transport or storage, with assembly of the 37 pound trike taking only moments.

Greenspeed terms their “Cross Over” steering. Unlike less sophisticated direct steering systems I would ride later (where the handlebars are an extension of the kingpins), the GT20 has a very small turning radius making the machine extremely maneuverable.

Adding to my comfort with the new ride were many small details like the 5 degrees of wheel camber that helps to increase stability, while not increasing overall width. Being narrow to begin with (overall width is just 31”), this camber feature makes it even easier to squeeze through particularly tight spaces (the tire – not the axle end – will be the first contact with any tight entryway).

DOWNHILL TECHNIQUE

One area that proved challenging to me as a new trike rider, was proper braking technique for optimal slowing/stopping on fast descents without pulling the trike sharply to one side or the other. It probably wasn’t smart to bomb the downhills on my test loop before getting a full handle on the braking characteristics of the Greenspeed 90mm drum brakes.

Greenspeed does say that the drum brakes “may take some time to bed in (to) give their best performance”. To be totally honest, my experience with disc or drum brakes is minimal It’s only been a recent development where disc brakes have become more popular on conventional road bikes.

Greenspeed opted for drum brakes over a disc spec for several reasons, including a “shoe size (that) is larger than the pads used in disc brakes, making them practically everlasting , the drums also give a cleaner appearance”. Greenspeed says that “most disc brakes are fiddly to adjust, the rotor can easily get bent, and the pads can have a short life, plus it can be difficult to remove the wheel”. As a side note, while testing other trike recumbents using disc brakes, I faced the same issue of proper braking technique so that the bike wouldn’t pull to one side or the other when having to brake sharply on a fast downhill.

GET SCHWIFTY

I’ve always liked bar end shifters – especially for touring and world travels where durability and easy component maintenance are critical. No batteries to recharge or complex shifting levers to worry about with the GT20.

In my ‘former’ roadie life, anything under 11 speeds was considered ancient technology – especially if it wasn’t electronic. But the 8 speed Ultegra bar end shifters on the GT20 performed flawlessly for me with every shift, every mile, on my test loop over several months of use (the 165mm 56/42/28 front chain rings are matched to an 11/32 cassette on the rear). Greenspeed opted for a non-Shimano spec with their front derailleur MicroShift, figuring riders would appreciate needing only ½ the force to shift compared to, say, the Shimano Sora FD.

Over 40 years ago, I coined the term ‘credit card’ touring for an article I did for Bicycling Magazine. It’s an approach to ‘touring’ without all the weight of camping gear. Family, friends, or hotels serve as one’s nightly accommodations.

The G20 would be a perfect application for this (as well as commuting or sports/recreational use). And for those international trips (or long domestic car trips), the frame is hinged for easy portability (rear half can be folded over the front, and will fit in most car trunks).

The Greenspeed luggage rack ($89) is made of 10mm tubular high tensile aluminum alloy (translation: they’re light) and is rated to carry 66lbs – far more than you’ll need for most ‘light’ touring. Other options to consider include: the accessory clamp and post with mirror ($29), light mount ($25 each), front fenders (set $195), and headrest ($139).

I definitely needed the mirror option because of my limited neck/head movement (I also researched and tested various helmet and sunglass mirror options on the market but that’s another article). Living in Southern California, where it ‘never’ rains, makes fenders less of a priority – however, during my time in Oregon, group rides always required rear fenders as a courtesy to others in the pace-line. I didn’t get a chance to try Greenspeed’s headrest but it’s something that I would consider for any future trike purchase – especially for those of us dealing with major neck or back trauma issues.

THE VALUE PROPOSITION

The spec of the G20 is very reasonable and more than functional; and, matched to their new frame, a great value at $2,690. If I were to have someone design and build a custom trike that was lightweight, high-performance, and great for light touring, it would look a lot like the GT20.

Greenspeed says that the GT20 is a “carefully engineered, lightweight frame, (with) low rolling resistance tires, and an efficient drive train, (giving) exceptional performance; which make(s) this trike a real joy to ride, for commuting, touring, or just exercising and having fun”. I couldn’t have said it better.

Since I’ve used my standard road circuit for many test rides/reviews over the years (everything from 20” Bike Fridays to tandems), I have a pretty good record of times under varying conditions. For conventional group rides on my 15lb S-Works Tarmac (or other lightweight singles I’ve owned over the years), the loop has taken typically about a hour and a half. Riding solo generally added another 10 to 15 minutes (for me). The GT20 found me pushing 2 hours plus over the same loop (only once, under ideal conditions, did I ever come close to breaking the 2 hour barrier). The slower times are mostly a result of a rider (me) being new to trikes, and a weight difference of almost 20 to 25 lbs. But given the option of no riding versus being a bit slower, I’ll take the latter any day! Besides, I actually found the GT20 fun to ride and a nice change of pace from my former road days, something I hadn’t really expected. ▲

Specifications FRAME SHIFTING CRANKSET CASSETTE BRAKES DERAILLEURS WHEELS TIRES WEIGHT WARRANTY PRICE MANUFACTURE

Aluminum alloy, foldable Shimano Ultegra, bar-end Shun 56/42/28 Shimano 11/32 Sturmey Archer 90mm drums (R) Shimano Altus/ (F) Microshift 20 inch, aluminum alloy Greenspeed slicks, 20x1.5 17 kg (37 lbs) 10 Year, frame $2690 Greenspeed, greenspeed-trikes.com

15

Dirt and Trail

THE QUEST FOR THE SILVER SPIKE Peak out at 8,500’, Take in the view, don’t quit EPIC RIDES CARSON CITY OFF ROAD MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE OFFERS A TEST OF DETERMINATION AND PERSEVERANCE

By Richard L. Duquette

RIDE LOCATION NEXT EVENT DISTANCE DIFFICULTY START HOSTS INFO

CARSON CITY OFF-ROAD CARSON CITY, NEVADA JUNE 15-17, 2018 35, 65, OR 90 MILES INTERMEDIATE/PRO CAPITAL COMPLEX EPIC RIDES EPICRIDES.COM

Photo by Richard Duquette

The view of Marlette Lake from the Tahoe Rim Trail. The trail surrounding the lake is a popular segment on the Carson City Off Road Mountain Bike Race.

M

y wife Kim gave me a kiss and said, “Be careful honey, I’ll see you in a few hours.” That off--camber turns; miraculously did not fall. I then crossed the finish line in good spirits, after a was the start of my day as I left our campsite and motor home in Carson City, Nevada full day of everything I had. At a month short of 60 years old, and having completed many different on a Saturday morning. I rode my mountain bike to the start line of the inaugural races, including a couple of Ironman’s, I’d rank this event close to the top. Even the pros were Carson City Off-Road 35/50 Mountain Bike Race put on by Epic Rides. As I headed out, I could saying it was a “tough” course like a shorter version of the Leadville 100-mile race in Colorado. see the mountains that rose to over 8,600 feet.

The reward was a heavy silver chrome plated engraved railroad spike. It was one of the most Steep climbing combined with rough terrain as the howling gusts of wind attempted to thoughtful tokens of appreciation for completing such a beautiful and challenging race. We slow riders down and the adventure was on! Carson city is located at 5,000 feet and the peak enjoyed the festival atmosphere and free city park camping along the quaking cottonwood trees. altitude for the race was at about 8,600 feet. To crest the peak was the goal, but it took twentyAt the festival the vendor sponsors offered quality free swag and services. Kim received a flat two miles of climbing to do so. However there repair kit from the Slime company and was a lovely reward, a view of double lakes I got a free front dérailleur adjustment with Marlette Lake in the foreground and the from the Shimano crew who traveled deep blue Lake Tahoe directly behind it. The from Irvine, California. The sponsor remaining thirteen miles were downhill.

I appreciated the most though was the The view on the Lake Tahoe Rim Trail as cool mechanic from Stan’s No Tubes. spectacular as the Tahoe basin is snow covered, He injected my new tubeless mountain even in early summer. I stopped and took a few bike tires with Stan’s flat stop, and I can’t photos to preserve the memory. At the 20-mile emphasize enough how important that mark, the sun was high in the sky and one of was. Having a flat in the forest would the course marshals asked me if I wanted a The reward for finishing the race, an engraved railroad finisher spike. have been uncomfortable. Luckily, I did ride back in the truck. Having never quit a race not have to ride in on my rim, like another in my life, I would politely decline, but I did ask him one question, “How much further to the participant I passed. By the way, the combined pro purse, men’s and women’s, was $100k = Nice! summit?” When he said “two miles” I told him, “I’ve got this.” I didn’t realize the last two miles Back at camp, we had a beautiful view of the snowcapped mountains and lots of grass for our was a mixture of single track switchbacks leading into a snow field. dog “Reilly” to play frisbee. Talking to my camp neighbors added to the camaraderie and they Having reached the peak, it was all downhill from there. I called my wife Kim from the top offered good intel regarding the race, too. The organizer, Epic Races, had held races in Prescott and told her it would be a couple more hours because I now had about 13 miles of deep forest Arizona and Colorado earlier in the season. single track switch-backs over tree roots and rocks.

The Carson City Off-Road 35/50 Mountain Bike Race entry fee was $120, which was very fair Towards the end of the decent, I had to laugh when I was detoured off the pleasant fire road for the thrills, adventure, and race. To accomplish this ride yourself, I suggest you take a two-day on to the “secret trail”. This was a narrow goat trail (more like gopher trail on a ledge) along drive up from San Diego and camp in Mammoth next to the creeks at the base of the Sierras. Try the side of the mountain that connected the riders to another route. I was told this was added to “Cedar Creek” for $35 a night just south of Mammoth. On the way in to Carson City, consider a link “useable” land parcels. It’s hard to design a ride that smoothly navigates riders through land stop in Bridgeport, California for a bite to eat. A bonus was our tour of the historic Carson City parcels (I’m seeing this more and more, as our open spaces keep shrinking). Not wanting to fall Mint, where they used to mint gold pieces and silver dollars. There is lots of fun to be had and off the so-called “secret trail” ledge and worry my wife, I decided to ride and paddle some of the Western history to learn. See you on the trail! ▲ 16

BICYCLIST Magazine

Asphalt, Please

Mesquite Madness Rolling the Dice Through Three states HOSTED BY THE GREAT FOLKS AT RED ROCK BICYCLE COMPANY IN ST. GEORGE, UTAH.

RIDE LOCATION NEXT EVENT DISTANCE DIFFICULTY START HOSTS INFO

MESQUITE MADNESS MESQUITE, NEVADA MARCH 17, 2018 35, 65, OR 90 MILES INTERMEDIATE/PRO MESQUITE COMMUNITY CENTER RED ROCK BICYCLE RIDESOUTHERNUTAH.COM

By John Woodson

The desert roads of Utah, Nevada and Arizona all provide the backdrop for Mesquite Madness, a 30, 65 or 90 mile road set for March

L

ife is all about taking risks. Sometimes you have to gamble.

Place a bet. Roll the dice and see what comes up. I had one of those days at the Mesquite Madness ride in Nevada hosted by the great folks at Red Rock Bicycle Company in St. George, Utah.

Mesquite Madness is the season opener for southern Utah road riders. It’s the only event west of the Mississippi that lets you enjoy a nice, warm, early spring ride in three states, Utah, Nevada and Arizona, while the rest of the country digs out after a long cold winter. Sounds perfect to me.

The day of the ride on the other hand, was not a nice warm spring day. It felt like a Nevada summer. It was already 65 degrees when 400 riders prepared to tackle 35, 65 and 90 mile routes. It was a carnival-like atmosphere with the buzzing of drones flying overhead and an assortment of riders that included hammerheads, tri-geeks, racers and recreational enthusiasts of all ages. With not a cloud in the sky nor any shade in sight riders slather on sunscreen and colorful Zinca Nosecoat. Especially me, since my lily-white skin has not seen the sun in months.

After a wonderful live performance of the national anthem, we rolled out under a giant start/finish banner. At the front the pace was easy as we rode around town and through eurostyle roundabouts. After pushing the pace through some hills, I attached myself to a small group up the road. Moving at a brisk pace, we hit the first rest stop about an hour into the event.

The group stops, deciding to refuel and wait for several larger groups behind. I hesitate – should I stay or should I go now?

With 70 miles remaining, including 15 miles of climbing, it’s a solo gamble - plus, the temperature is already 75 degrees.

I ride on. Rolling the dice, I keep going.

Luckily, two riders quickly follow my lead and join. Our gamble seems reasonable so we put some effort into powering

BICYCLIST.xyz

the break. The good news is that I’m not riding solo. The bad news is the temperature keeps rising.

After pedaling into a stiff headwind at 30 miles with the hot sun beating down on us we catch a glimpse of a chase group rolling up behind. Their timing is perfect to catch us at the foot of the penultimate climb, Utah Hill, just like in a Grand Tour. The climb to the top is 15 miles long and rises 3000 feet into the Beaver Dam Mountains. It’s so challenging that it’s rated a Cat 1 climb – most definitely not a “hill.”

Soon the chasing field absorbs our little breakaway. Riders now attack as the road pitches up. The tree-less Beaver Dam Mountains stare down at me, daring me to place another bet, to double down. Like a fool, I do.

Rather than enjoying a leisurely ride to the top, I latch on to the back of the lead pack, grit my teeth and hang on as sweat stings my eyes. 11 miles later my legs crap out. They’re done. My bet, my roll of the dice, came up snake eyes. My muscles twitch as though cramping is eminent, even though I’ve consumed three bottles. Riding in temperatures 30 degrees above my winter norm has cooked me. I ease up, riding at my own pace to the top as the temperature display on my computer hits 96 degrees.

At the top riders are filling bottles, getting a quick bite to eat and playing fun gambling games for cool cycling prizes. I fill my bottles with Hammer HEED and start back down the hill with the lead group. It’s a 40mph rocket ride down the mountain with me playing tail gunner at the back.

Eventually the downhill runs out and I must pedal.

Unfortunately, my legs protest as the group pushes hard to the finish. Threatening to cramp once again, I ease up and watch my free ride roll away.

With 15 miles left to go, it’s time to just ride steady. The

65-mile riders are trying to finish too. They’ve been out in the sun and heat just as long, and are just as cooked. I chat and visit with them, trying to take our minds off Mesquite’s final miles of Madness.

Soon we’re back in town and rolling under the finish banner with cheers, ringing cowbells, cold drinks and delicious street tacos from El Coyote Charro greeting us, well earned by every rider today.

The Red Rock Bicycle Company and RideSouthernUtah.com put on the superb event. These folks bring cycling and the wonderful beautiful world of southern Utah together for any cyclist to enjoy, no matter skill or ability. They define the southern Utah cycling scene, both on and off road. Check them out and be sure to add their March events to your bucket list. It’s a surefire bet you’ll come out a winner.

Cheers and most of all take time to enjoy the ride. ▲

view the full

calendar of 2018 events at BICYCLIST.xyz/EVENTS 17

gear patrol

The Winter Heat Wave Going somewhere Warm with the climber's 2.0/inferno kit THE WORLD IS GETTING WARMER. THE WINTER HEAT WAVE IS COMING. THIS CASTELLI KIT WILL KEEP YOU COOL

By Chris Reynolds

T

he winter heat wave is becoming a part of the season as just as much as turkey and candy canes, especially for those living in our part of the world, Southern California. Even if November and December have you inside on the trainer, the early January and February days may have you pushing aside the arm warmers and gillet for the lightweight climbing gear. In that role, Castelli has updated their Climbers Jersey with the version 2.0.

The new design brings the weight down to 83 grams.

That's a deck a playing cards for reference. Though the search for shedding grams has waned in the recent years of ultra-light everything, the lightness is welcomed when the temps get to egg-frying.

I had an opportunity to enjoy the last Italian heatwave of the season and did so in splendor, pairing the Climber Jersey 2.0 with a set of Castelli's Inferno bibs, a similarly lightweight, race-cut bib.

After a 4 hours of white stone gravel riding on 25 mm tires through old Roman roads, lesser bibs would be chaffing, bunching and holding heat against the skin, but the Castelli kit was weightless, the collarless jersey an especially appreciated addition.

"When wearing Castelli, you become the Italian car- Hopefully more like Lamborghini and less like Fiat."

The kit was highly appropriate for early October conditions in Italy. Just coming off a record-breaking summer, the dryness was noticeable and the Tuscan sun reminiscent of California. That is where the similarities end. For the uninitiated, all roads in Tuscany, a northern region of Italy, home to the L'Eroica vintage bike race, are of two types - uphill or downhill. For those that have driven this area and only remember flat, wide open valleys between medieval hill-top towns, I assure you that, by bike, the ups and downs far outweigh the flats. In this setting, the kit was at home.

Roots

I taly holds a special place in Castelli's history, the

roots of the brand trace back to Italian tailor Vittore Gianni in 1876. Gianni made his first cycling clothing in the 1910s for the five-time Giro champion Alfredo Binda. Throughout the 20th century, the Castelli brand would go on to decorate the backs of high profile cyclists including Gino Bartali and Fausto Coppi, and eventually becoming the official jersey supplier of the Giro d'Italia; Castelli's Italian history is significant.

In another homage to Italian racing histor y, the "Rosso Corsa" moniker of Castelli is a shout out to the red international motor racing color of cars entered by teams from Italy. When wearing Castelli, you become the Italian car- Hopefully more Lamborghini and less Fiat.

18

BICYCLIST magazine

Sizing and Footnotes

Both the Climbers Jersey 2.0 and the Inferno bib are race-cut, and Castelli is the most racey of race cuts. At 6'2, 155 pounds, my fit deviates from the typical Euro-pro. I found that extra large bibs and a large sized jersey worked well. Even arms over head (in victory salute, obviously) kept the section between bib and jersey covered. When leaned over in a tuck, the front section was taught and without excess material. The bibs feature resilient leg grippers that kept in place throughout the ride, leaving a crisp tan-line, just the kind we like around here.

Speaking of tans, it is recommend you wear sunblock before you wear this kit. The material is quite thin. I didn't, and didn't notice any sunburn, but fairer skin tones may do well to heed this recommendation that comes from Castelli, especially on those blistering summer days, when the winter heat wave has been replaced with the summer heat wave. Are you sensing a theme? Time to stock up on the 'summer' gear. â–˛

ABOVE The Castelli Inferno bibs are an excellent choice for long and hot days in the saddle. The pad resists bunching and provides relief in the right places. Up top, the Castelli Climber's Jersey 2.0 improves upon the original with decreased weight, and increased breath-ability,

CASTELLI CLIMBERS JERSEY 2.0 83 grams (large) $130

CASTELLI INFERNO BIB 196 grams (x-large) $230

SoCal and Beyond

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

Day

Event Name Organizer TYPE: length

City, State

FEATURES

Location

November 2017 January 2018 16-19 Multi

ASSOS CAMPionissimo DuVine Cycling ROAD: TBA

18 Saturday

Bikes & Beers SD Bikes & Beers ROAD: 15,30 miles

18-19 Multi

UCI CXLA Weekend SoCalCross PRESTIGE SERIES CX: TBA

19 Sunday

Turkey Tri & Pumpkin Pie Kids DU Renegade Race Series ROAD: 14 miles Bonelli Park

26 Sunday

SCPS: Turkey Trot Cross SoCalCross PRESTIGE SERIES CX: TBA

Healdsburg

09-14 Multi

CX National Championships USA Cycling CX: Course

12-14 Multi

BWR Survival Camp 3.0 Belgian Waffle Ride GX: TBA

San Marcos

13 Saturday

Rio Bravo Rumble G&G Physical Therapy MTB: 15 miles Rio Bravo Ranch

Bakersfield

27 Saturday

Old Caz Occidental Grasshopper Adventure Series GX/CX: 50 miles NCa Occidental Community Center

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

28 Sunday

Laguna Niguel Triathlon Renegade Race Series ROAD: 8 miles

Tri

24 Saturday

December 2017 February 2018

2 Saturday

Dead of Winter Double Planet Ultra ROAD: 400 miles

March

2-3 Multi

CACX at the Greek Theatre SoCalCross PRESTIGE SERIES CX: TBA

9 Saturday

Dirty 30 Quick n Dirty MTB: 8.1 mile course

9-10 Multi

CACX District Championships SoCalCross PRESTIGE SERIES CX: TBA

10 Sunday

NCa

Jimtown Store ___________________________________________________________________

SCa

Green Flash Brewery ___________________________________________________________________

SCa

Moreno Valley

Lakehouse Hotel & Resort ___________________________________________________________________

SCa

March Field Park ___________________________________________________________________

San Dimas

Tri

Glendale

SCa

Crown Valley Park

Laguna Niguel

SCa

Malibu

SCa

Webster Elementary School ___________________________________________________________________

Los Angeles

3 Saturday

Ride the Yuha Desert Imperial Valley Velo Club ROAD: 13,20,46,70 miles

10 Saturday

Tour de Palm Springs CVSPIN ROAD: 10,25,50,100 miles

Tri

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NCa NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Nv NEVADA SCa

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

Verdugo Park

Nv

Rancho San Rafael Park ___________________________________________________________________

San Diego

SCa

Reno,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!

El Centro

SCa

Debbie Pittman Park ___________________________________________________________________

Pedaling Paths to Independence Community Center for the Blind ROAD: 25,65 miles

Linden

NCa

DeVinci's Delicatessan ____________________________________________________

Staagecoach Century Palm Springs Shadow Tour ROAD: 26-150 miles SCa Ocotillo

2018

3-4 Multi

Malibu Gran Fondo Serious Cycling ROAD: 30-150 miles

Rock Cobbler Bakersfield Sam Barn Productions GX: 134 miles TBA

10 Saturday

Solvang Century, Metric & Half Solvang SCOR ROAD: 100, 75, 50 miles SCa Hotel Corque

Chileno Valley Classic Occidental Grasshopper Adventure Series GX: 134 miles Occidental Community Center

11 Sunday

St. Paddy's Palomar Punishment CCSD ROAD: 42-100 miles

CBR Criterium Race Carson California Bicycle Racing ROAD: 8.1 mile course SCa Broadwick Street

11 Sunday

Velo-Love Chico Velo CC ROAD: 40,60,100 miles

17 Saturday

Super Sweetwater Occidental Grasshopper Adventure Series GX: 78 miles NCa Occidental Community Center

16-17 Multi

SCPS Finale Weekend MoValCX Moreno Valley SoCalCross PRESTIGE SERIES CX: TBA SCa March Field Park

18 Sunday

Bikes & Beers SD Bikes & Beers ROAD: 15,30 miles

24 Saturday

Saddleback Spring Classic Renegade Race Series ROAD: 1,15,35,50,100 miles Irvine Valley College

26-31 Multi

Christmas Bicycle Trip Hostelling International ROAD: 400 miles

SCa

Greek Theatre ___________________________________________________________________

Poway

SCa

Sycamore Canyon Open Space ___________________________________________________________________

Silverado

SCa

Irvine Lake ___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

San Diego to Palm Desert and back

socalBICYCLIST.com

San Diego

SCa

Palm Springs

OREGON Wa WASHINGTON Az ARIZONA Or

SCa

TBA ____________________________________________________

SCa ____________________________________________________

NCa ___________________________________________________________________

Gridley

NCa

Butte County Fairground ___________________________________________________________________

San Diego

SCa

Green Flash Brewery ___________________________________________________________________

Malibu

SCa

Four Seasons Westlake ___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

Escondido

SCa

Terra Madre Gardens ___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

Irvine

SCa

____________________________________________________

The Dirty Devil Alpine CCSD ROAD: 84,127 miles SCa TBA

@socalbicyclist

19

gear patrol

Time To form Your Team hands on with the Walz Build-A-Jersey

WALZ CAPS IS KNOWN FOR THEIR CUSTOM CYCLING CAPS MADE IN THE USA, BUT NOW THEIR TAKING THEIR CLASSIC STYLE TO THE JERSEY

By Kelley O'Toole

W

alz Caps has added a custom jersey option to their fine collection of California-made cycling caps. We had the opportunity to experiment with the custom jersey builder and then receive the final product.

Historically, their custom caps have been well-constructed and reliable on the road, so we were eager to see how the jersey would measure up.

The Build-a-Jersey online customizer was easy and fun to use. It includes a preview of the jersey that shows you what it will look like while you customize.

There are 18 colors to choose from for the front and back body, side panel, shoulders, sleeve tips, collar, and the back pocket of the jersey. A downside to the jersey builder was that there were no option to include your own graphics, which could be a deal breaker if you’re required to include a sponsor’s logo on your jersey. However you can include two lines of text to the front and back to rep your club or brand, with the choice of block, ultra, or script

styled. I went with the block and script font as it looked the most like our logo.

The jersey only took two weeks to arrive and it turned out exactly as I had imagined. The distinct Kelly and Forest green is bold and the text is clear. The fabric of the jersey is comfortable and breathable, and the colors have stayed vivid even after a few washes. These jerseys would look striking on a pack of club riders cruising down PCH, and the bright white is great for being seen riding solo.

Like their caps, the Walz jersey is expertly sewn. The stitching is tight, but breathable, and the back pockets have plenty of room for multiple carry on’s. The jersey is reminiscent of the fabric they use for their lightweight technical cap, both products wick away sweat and rain.

I found the experience of creating my custom jersey very enjoyable and I was really pleased with the final product. I recommend you try out the customizer for yourself! ▲

ABOVE LEFT The Walz Build-AJersey provides a fast and inexpensive way to customize a jersey of the quality Walz has come to be known for. And no minimums! ABOVE RIGHT The stitching is excellent, with smooth seems on the inside, and no loose threads, an attention to detail that is appreciated.

LOWER RIGHT No superfluous addons, just features you'll use, the zippered stash pocket a prime example.

BICYCLIST, DELIVERED Subscribe Today!

WE HAVE PERSONAL AND CORPORATE SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE FOR BICYCLISTS AND BUSINESSES. DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! YOUR SUPPORT AND ENGAGEMENT HELPS US CONTINUE TO BRING STORIES, INFORMATION AND FEATURES FOR ACTIVE CYCLISTS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA AND BEYOND.

RECEIVE 10 ISSUES OF BICYCLIST MAGAZINE FOR ONLY $20. ZING!

visit www.bicyclist.shop 20

BICYCLIST magazine

SoCal and Beyond

April 7 Saturday

Wildflower Century SLO Bicycle Club ROAD: 12,30,63,100 miles

8 Sunday

Campagnolo Gran Fondo Gran Fondo Cycling Tours ROAD: 20,30,63,100 miles

7-8 Multi

California Classic Weekend California Classic Century ROAD: 100 miles

14 Saturday

Tour de Cure American Diabetes Association ROAD: 12,30,63,100 miles

2018 May Creston

NCa

O'Donovan Rd. ___________________________________________________________________

San Diego

SCa

Historic Downtown San Diego ___________________________________________________________________

Fresno

NCa

Chukchansi Park ___________________________________________________________________

San Diego

SCa

Del Mar Fairgrounds ____________________________________________________

Mulholland Challenge Planet Ultra ROAD: 100 miles, 200 miles

Agoura Hills

SCa

Hampton Inn & Suites ____________________________________________________

Cinderella Classic & Challenge Valley Spokesmen ROAD: 65,85 miles, women only

Pleanston

14-15 Multi

2018 Canyon Belgian Waffle Ride Creative Disruption MIXED: 100 miles

19-22 Multi

Sea Otter Classic Sea Otter Classic Mixed: Road, Course Laguna Seca Raceway

21 Saturday

Lake Sonoma MTB Grasshopper Adventure Series MTB: 8.1 mile course Occidental Community Center

NCa

Alameda Fairgrounds ___________________________________________________________________

5 Saturday

3F Century Lions Club of Colusa ROAD: 38,63,100 miles

2018 Colusa

NCa

TBA ____________________________________________________

Skaggs and Super Skaggs Grasshopper Adventure Series ROAD: 96 miles Occidental Community Center

19 Saturday

King Dirt Ridge Supreme Occidental Grasshopper Adventure Series CX: 80 miles NCa Occidental Community Center

Occidental

NCa

___________________________________________________________________

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.

SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date

Operation Ride for Red Camarillo American Red Cross ROAD: TBA SCa TBA

____________________________________________________

San Diego Century Spectrum Sports ROAD: 33,67,105 miles

25-28 Multi

Great Western Bicycle Rally CCSD ROAD: 5-100 miles

San Diego

SCa

Revolution Bike Shop ___________________________________________________________________

Paso Robles Event Centre

San Marcos

Tri

Paso Robles

SCa

Event Name Organizer TYPE: length

City, State

FEATURES

Location

____________________________________________________

Day

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 NCa NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Nv NEVADA SCa

OREGON Wa WASHINGTON Az ARIZONA Or

SCa

Lost Abbey Brewery ___________________________________________________________________

Occidental

NCa

____________________________________________________

Bike Around the Buttes YSCDSG MTB: 17.5,40 miles course Yuba-Sutter Children Center

Sutter

NCa

____________________________________________________

OC Dirty Trail Fest Dirty Feet Productions MTB: 15k O'Neil Regional Park

Trabuco Canyon

SCa

____________________________________________________

Sierra Century SAC Wheelmen ROAD: 41,65,102,122 miles

Plymouth

NCa

Amador County Fairgrounds ____________________________________________________

Tierra Bella Bicycle Tour SAC Wheelmen ROAD: TBA

Gilroy

NCa

Almaden Cycle Touring Club ____________________________________________________

Alpine Challenge Kiwanis Club of Alpine ROAD: TBA

22 Sunday

Primavera Century Fremont Freewheelers BC ROAD: 25,63,80,100 miles

28 Saturday

Finish the Ride, Run, Walk, Roll Finish the Ride ROAD: 6,20,30,50 miles

Alpine

SCa

Summers Past Farms ___________________________________________________________________

Fremont

NCa

Mission San Jose High School ___________________________________________________________________

Griffith Park

socalBICYCLIST.com

www.bicyclist.events

NCa

___________________________________________________________________

SUBMIT YOUR EVENT & view full calendar

Monterey

Los Angeles

SCa

@socalbicyclist

21

Last Page

Rider Safety Visibility OCEANSIDE SUMMIT BRINGS TOGETHER COMMUNITY MEMBERS MAKING CHANGE

By Chris Reynolds

ABOVE City of Oceanside Deputy Mayor Chuck Lowery speaks at the Rider Safety Visibility summit about the focus Oceanside has put on improving infrastructure and increasing pedestrian traffic (and economic activity) to the city center with a focus on safety.

W

e’ve detailed the forward momentum generated by the San Diego Sports Collective on our site. Led by Ed Clancy, the collective has been focusing on educating and advocating for pedestrian safety through the Rider Safety Visibility initiative. Known as RSV, the focus is improving the experience and safety of cycling by increasing the visibility of pedestrians to cars.

As more and more pedestrians, cyclists especially, fall victim to automobiles drifting into bike lanes, the focus on visibility has come to the forefront as the best tool to prevent rider fatalities. To this end, Clancy has brought together a diverse group of interested advocates for an ongoing series of summits that have helped bring awareness and push forward the agenda of improving rider visibility and safety.

The most recent meeting took place this past month, with a showcase of the technology that is aiding the visibility campaign. Speaking at the summit and representing the City of Oceanside, Deputy Mayor Chuck Lowery spoke about the improvements to infrastructure for pedestrians that has taken place in Oceanside.

Howard Lagrange, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator for the City of Oceanside, has worked to develop and designate bicycle routes throughout the city alongside signage and maps to inform and educate. His work with Oceanside is a model for other cities to replicate, creating a bike-friendly network of pathways that make sense for 22

BICYCLIST magazine

ABOVE Danny VanHaute, team manager of hometown favorites Jelly Belly Racing, made an appearance to announce that for 2018, all team riders would be contractually required to use daytime-running lights while training. The impetus comes from the tragic number of riders that have been killed in recent years while training, and the measure of prevention a daytime-running light provides.

RIGHT Howard Lagrange inspects the various offerings from NiteRider and ShowersPass, pioneers in the reflectivity, safety, visibility (RSV) space.

both cyclists and non-cycling citizens.

Danny Van Haute, team director of the storied Jelly Belly professional cycling team was on hand to pledge his support of the RSV initiative. He also surprised the group by announcing that he will be contractually requiring his team riders to use day-time running lights while training in 2018. Though most professional cyclists would frown on additional rules constraining their training, anything that makes sharing the road with cars safer is a welcome addition. â–˛ For more information on RSV and how you can bring the program to your hometown, visit ridersafetyvisibility.com SoCal and Beyond

BICYCLIST.fm socalBICYCLIST.com

@socalbicyclist

24