tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89317874144892341512024-02-21T10:21:43.014-05:00AUDAX RIDERoad Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.comBlogger875125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-19899417601245968662021-03-29T13:58:00.002-04:002021-03-29T13:58:40.936-04:00<p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Training Plans:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">Below is the long promise "get ready to get in shape for riding and break out of Winter" core training program</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Got your notebook ready?<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Some dumbells would be helpful.<span> </span>I suggest a pair each of 5, 10, and 15 pounds.<span> </span>Likely a lot of you already have them.<span> </span>If not, they are not expensive.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Week 1 & 2<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Workout 1:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Pick three days and times.<span> </span>They should not be back-to-back, but rather have at least a day separating them.<span> </span>(Hint, we like first thing in the morning, or just before lunch, but do what works for you.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Focus on deep slow breaths throughout<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">10 push ups. (If you can’t do ten, start with 5)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do a one minute plank after the last pushup<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">10 crunches<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">10 leg lifts (on your back, keep legs straight and raise them from the floor to about 8 inches.<span> </span>Do it slowly)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Magic chair (wall sits) for one minute<span> </span>(place your back against the wall, and lower yourself until you are in the same position as an easy chair.<span> </span>Then hold that position)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">10 lunges (One for each leg equals one rep)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Optional Bonus:</span></b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span> </span>Take a five minute brisk walk on any or all days.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Week 3 & 4<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">The first two weeks you did the workout three times in the week.<span> </span>For the next two weeks you do the workout <i>four time</i> in the week.<span> </span>Make the extra workout happen on the same day as one of the other three.<span> </span>In other words do one “two a day.”<span> </span>So if you are doing them in the morning, on one day only add another set in the afternoon or evening.<span> </span>If you just can’t do that, then slide the fourth session in on a day between two others.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Workout 2:<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Weeks 3 and four just build on the first two weeks, as follows<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Focus on deep slow breaths throughout<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Increase the pushup count by 20% over last week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do a 90 second plank after the last pushup<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">12 crunches<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">12 leg lifts (on your back, keep legs straight and raise them from the floor to about 8 inches.<span> </span>Do it slowly)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Magic chair (wall sits) for 90 seconds<span> </span>(place your back against the wall, and lower yourself until you are in the same position as an easy chair.<span> </span>Then hold that position)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">12 lunges (One for each leg equals one rep)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Optional Bonus:</span></b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span> </span>Take a 6 to 7 minute brisk walk on any or all days.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Week 5 & 6<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Up the game a bit.<span> </span>Do three each “two a days”. That is, do the same workout in the morning and evening, on three of your workout days.<span> </span>Preferably the “two a days” should not fall on back-to-back days.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Focus on deep slow breaths throughout<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Increase the pushup count by 20% over last week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do a 2 minute <span> </span>plank after the last pushup<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">15 crunches<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">15 leg lifts (on your back, keep legs straight and raise them from the floor to about 8 inches.<span> </span>Do it slowly)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Magic chair (wall sits) for 2 minutes<span> </span>(place your back against the wall, and lower yourself until you are in the same position as an easy chair.<span> </span>Then hold that position)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">15 lunges (One for each leg equals one rep) <b>Bonus:</b><span> </span>carry a pair of ten ound dumbells while doing the lunges.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Optional Bonus:</span></b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><span> </span>Take a 10 minute brisk walk on any or all days.<span> </span>You may substitute a 10 to fifteen minute brisk ride, weather permitting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Week 7 & 8<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">By now you should be doing the exercise set five mornings a week, and three evenings a week. Keep that schedule. The next set (below) u</span><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">ps the game a bit more.</span><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Focus on deep slow breaths throughout<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">You should be up to around 15 to 20 pushups per session.<span> </span>Now let’s stretch it a bit and do 20 to 25.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do a 3 minute <span> </span>plank after the last pushup<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">20 crunches<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">20 leg lifts (on your back, keep legs straight and raise them from the floor to about 8 inches.<span> </span>Do it slowly)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Magic chair (wall sits) for 4 minutes<span> </span>(place your back against the wall, and lower yourself until you are in the same position as an easy chair.<span> </span>Then hold that position)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">20 lunges (One for each leg equals one rep) <b>Bonus:</b><span> </span>carry a pair of ten pound dumbells while doing the lunges.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><style class="WebKit-mso-list-quirks-style">
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</style></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">8.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Optional Bonus:</span></b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Take a 10 minute brisk walk on any or all days. You may substitute a 10 to fifteen minute brisk ride, weather permitting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Week 9 & 10<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">We change the weekly schedule a bit for this set.<span> </span>There are options.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ideal:<span> </span>Do the following workout twice per day, but only on three days of the week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Or:<span> </span>Maybe schedule doesn’t allow “two a days” three times a week.<span> </span>If so, do the set on any three mornings of the week, and on any three evenings.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0in; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Focus on deep slow breaths throughout<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">You should be up to around 20 to 25 pushups per session. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Do a 4 minute <span> </span>plank after the last pushup<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">25 crunches<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">25 leg lifts (on your back, keep legs straight and raise them from the floor to about 8 inches.<span> </span>Do it slowly)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Magic chair (wall sits) for 5 minutes<span> </span>(place your back against the wall, and lower yourself until you are in the same position as an easy chair.<span> </span>Then hold that position)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">7.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">5 to 10 Double Pump Burpees.<span> </span>Just a variation on the standard burpee, as follows.<span> </span>Drop into your crouch.<span> </span>Do the fast extension into plank position. <span> </span>Snap recovery to crouch.<span> </span>But do not do the burst upright yet.<span> </span>Repeat the snap extension into the plan.<span> </span>Recover to crouch.<span> </span>Burst to the upright jump.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">25 lunges (One for each leg equals one rep) <b>Bonus:</b><span> </span>carry a pair of ten pound dumbells while doing the lunges.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">9.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman"; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Leaning leg extensions:<span> </span>Drop into you plank position.<span> </span>Hold that position and raise one leg off of the floor, keeping the knee straight.<span> </span>Hold for a five count.<span> </span>Recover and then repeat with the other leg.<span> </span>Do this five times.</span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><style class="WebKit-mso-list-quirks-style">
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</style></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">10.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">Optional Bonus:</span></b><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Take a 10 minute brisk walk on any or all days. You may substitute a 10 to fifteen minute brisk ride, weather permitting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 40.5pt; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #1a1a1a; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 14pt;">And there you have it. Have fun. Get fitter. Bet a stronger core, and go <i>RIDE!</i></span></p><style class="WebKit-mso-list-quirks-style">
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</style>Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-65849904169884237342021-01-15T10:21:00.001-05:002021-01-15T10:21:14.056-05:00<p> Well now! It's been a long time since we have been here. Almost a year and a half. There are a few cobwebs and a lot of dust around the place. We'll get those cleaned up. Seems we've come to a time when this blog might just be needed again.</p><p>Welcome Back!</p><p>Do stay tuned. There's some good stuff coming.</p>Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-54649734220682779042018-08-31T06:00:00.000-04:002018-08-31T06:00:00.944-04:00Lights For Bikes 2018<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
Bicycle lights serve two functions. They help us to see where we are going when it’s dark outside, and they make us more visible when we are riding around other traffic.</div>
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<br /></div>
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In the past few years a quiet revolution has been taking place in the realm of bicycle lighting. The advent of CREE LEDs along with lithium rechargeable batteries and superior optics has been nothing less than astonishing. It is now possible to purchase really good, strong lights that last a long time, and the price is quite reasonable.</div>
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<br /></div>
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We are not going to get into prices and brands here, but rather, let’s consider some situations, and our best recommendation for specifications to meet them.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b>For daylight road riding:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b> Front light ~ </b>Look for a white light, in the 800 to 1200 lumen range.</div>
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Rechargeable. At least 1.5 to 2 hour burn time on high. Handlebar mounted.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Rear light ~ </b>To be “daylight visible, these should emit at least 150 lumens, </div>
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and have multiple flash and solid modes. Again, rechargeable. Burn time </div>
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should be at least two hours on the bright setting</div>
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</div>
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<b>Expect to pay</b>between $75 and $120 for the front light and $40 to $60 for </div>
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the rear.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>For night time road riding:</b></div>
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Oddly, much <i>less</i>illumination is required at night on the road. Your LED type lights have a very high point source intensity, and are visible for a great distance at night. It takes a lot less power to give you sufficient light to see and ride safely.</div>
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<b>Front Light ~ </b>White light, in the 400 to 800 lumen range. Rechargeable. </div>
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2 hour burn time on high. Handlebar mount is adequate, but mounting lower </div>
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on the bike gives better contrast illumination of road surface hazards.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Rear light ~</b> I would recommend the same thing as above.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Expect to pay </b>between $50 and $75 for the front light and $40 to $60 for the <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rear.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>For night time path riding or mountain biking:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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More light is required at the front of the bike for off-road activities because there is much less ambient light in these areas. On the other hand, a less powerful tail light is just fine. Light mounting strategy also changes when we go off-road. The ideal setup is to have two headlights, one mounted on the handlebar, and one helmet mounted. Next best, if only one headlight, use it on a helmet mount.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
The emphasis on a helmet mounted light for off-road riding is practical. Roads are built for cars, and even a “curvy” road is fairly straight for cycling concerns. Paths and trails twist and turn sharply. Often it is desirable to shine a light into a tight turn, and it’s <i>not</i>practical to turn the handlebar mounted light.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Safety Note:</b> Do not use a helmet mounted light with a <b>MIPS</b>helmet. The mount will interfere with the function of the <b>MIPS</b>inner shell. (I’m not sure yet how to solve this one, but I’ll publish info as soon as I have it.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b>Handlebar light ~ </b>Minimum 400 lumens. To 800 lumen (or better) <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rechargeable. Two hour burn time at 800 lumen setting.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Helmet mounted light ~ </b>about the same as handlebar.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Rear light ~</b> anything over 50 lumen is sufficient. Rechargeable. At least <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
four hours burn time.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<b>Expect to pay</b>between $75 and $120 for bright high quality front lights and <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">
at lease $30 for a decent tail light.<o:p></o:p></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-87408110081281488642018-04-02T06:00:00.000-04:002018-04-02T06:00:00.234-04:00PREPARING FOR THE AUDAX 200K<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Or<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">How to get ready to ride 125 miles in one day, Audax Style<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">What follows is sound
advice to get riders ready for this ride, but…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The following plan is not set in stone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It assumes the rider is starting
from<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>a relatively modest level of
condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The biggest factor is
actually <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">time in the saddle.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Hopefully,
what follows will prove helpful.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Let’s begin with some
basics…<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Everyone enjoys
riding on a nice light bike, but…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Plan to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">pack</i> your bike from the very
beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">self
supported</i></b> rides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That
means, if you want or need it, you must carry it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specifically, the predictability of weather in north Georgia
being what it is, we strongly suggest you pack a rain jacket and
sunscreen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Given the time of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>year, plan to carry <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">at least</i> two water bottles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carry your own spare tubes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If your bike has any very individual
and cranky parts, carry spares!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you have any specific dietary or medical needs, pack for them.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>We
strongly suggest that you start your training on a bike that is loaded out for
the tour, and then ride a bike with that load, or even a bit heavier, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">whenever you can.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
old maxim, “Train heavy and race light!” applies, even though this is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> a race.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Words
about pacing.</b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>I’m often asked
about the pace of these rides. The intent of this question is always, “Will I
be<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">able</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to do this
thing?” It’s an honest question, but a simple and straight forward answer is
often misleading. We need to maintain about 14.5 mph average <i>between stops. </i>That means something like 10 mph <i>overall average. </i>So first we must discuss<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">averages.</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>(Sorry, but this<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">really</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>is<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">necessary.</i>)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Averages Defined.</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Most cycle computers have an<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">average
speed</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>function. This<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">usually</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>does not record unless the bike is<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">moving!</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>That means that this is a<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">rolling</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>or<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">moving</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>average
speed. Unfortunately this is misleading in two ways. First off, rolling average
does not get you to the end of the ride. It is your<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">over-all</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">average</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>that gets you to the finish. Very few
bicycle computers have an overall average function. Second, being able to
maintain a high average for a shorter distance, does not necessarily translate
to a sustained lesser over-all average.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Here’s the straight
story on the Audax Ride. The over-all average will be close to 11 mph. To do
this a<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">rolling average</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>of
about 14.5 mph is necessary. This is a bit harder than it may seem. Simple
arithmetic tells the tale. To deliver a 14.5 mph average for over eight and a
half hours, requires that one<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">must</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>be
going faster than that for<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">most</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>of
that time. Bear in mind, there are plenty of hills and one mountain on the
Audax Ride Route.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Can you do it?</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">The best way to answer that
question is to start training, and then do the Tune Ups. By the end of the five
Tune Up Rides, you and I will both know what your chances of a successful
completion are. Be ready to chat with me about that during and after the Tune
Ups. I’m pretty good at judging a rider’s ability, and I will not pull any
punches.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">A Bit More on Average Speeds</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">It’s a good idea to
use actual <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">overall averages</i>
throughout your training for the Audax 200K.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s an example that shows both <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how</i> and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">why</i> this should
be done.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Let us say that a
rider named <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dave</b> goes out for a
training ride.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Dave</b> leaves his home on the bike at precisely 2:00 PM</li>
<li><b>Dave</b> rides well and feels good and returns to his home at precisely
4:00 PM</li>
<li><b>Dave </b>has been gone exactly two hours.</li>
<li><b>Dave</b> looks at his cycle computer and notes that it says he
traveled <i>exactly<b> </b></i>22.5 miles at an
average of 15 mph. <b>Dave </b>is happy. He will tell everyone he averaged 15
mph on his ride. From an Audax
standpoint, Dave is wrong. </li>
<li>In point of fact, <b>Dave’s </b><i>overall average </i>was <b>11.25
mph!</b></li>
<li>Why? What happened to the <i>other </i>3.75 mph?</li>
<li>Simple. Take <b>Dave’s </b><i>total distance</i> of 22.5 miles and divide
it by his <i>total time</i> of 2 hours.</li>
<li>What happened? Well, Dave’s computer only records when
he is <i>moving</i>, but time progresses
even when he is stopped. Every
time <b>Dave</b> stopped at a traffic
light, or stopped to fill water bottles, or ducked into a store for a “nature
break,” he was <i>not</i> moving, but time
was passing. </li>
<li>In this simplified
example, Dave was actually <i>moving</i> for
an hour and a half, but <i>all</i> the two
hours counts.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">When we are training
for an Audax Ride we need to use <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">overall
average speeds.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If our cycle
computer, or GPS, has an overall average function, we should use that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If not, we need only note the time of
the beginning of the ride, and of the end of the ride, then divide the total
distance by the total elapsed time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>‘Nuff <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>said.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Why</span></i></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"> </span></i></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">on Earth<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">should</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>I<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">want</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to do this?</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Like mountain climbers say, “Because it’s there!” The sense of
accomplishment after meeting a challenge is enormous. The camaraderie on these
things is great. They are, in a word,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">fun!</i></b><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>And the Monday morning bragging rights
are pretty good too.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Here’s a recipe:<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Start with two each “workout sessions”
per week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These should be higher
effort activities, hill repeats or intervals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These could be done inside on a trainer.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">To the “workout
rides” add one low effort “integration ride” of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>about two to three hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">That amounts to a
total of about five hours per week.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Around the end of
April, add another, low effort, outside ride of one to two hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bringing your weekly total to between
six and seven hours.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">To this add another
relatively short ride of an hour or so. See, you’re already doing about eight
hours.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Gradually increase
the times on both of your outside rides, until, by the end of May, you are
doing a two hour ride and a four to five hour ride every week. That’s four
training sessions a week, totaling eight to nine hours.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">In June, add another
short ride, of about an hour. This one should include a 15 minute warm up
section, about a half hour of hill repeats at moderate intensity, and a 15 minute
cool down. Then, near the end of the month, add another hour, either as a
separate ride at low intensity, or by extending one of the other four or five
rides.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Along about that
time, I’ll start doing<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax Tune Up Rides.<o:p></o:p></b></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">The Tune Ups.</span></b><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Look for these rides in June,
July, and August. We do three of them. Two are about 45 miles long, and the
last one is about 65 miles. We do these for several reasons. The first and most
important, is to give us all a chance to<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">practice</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>riding in this<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">group-stays-together-controled-pace</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>style of riding. The second is to act
as an assurance that each individual will be<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">able</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>to
accomplish the goal. The routes for the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tune Ups</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>are deliberately more hilly and
challenging than the overall route of the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax Ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>If you can do all of the “Tune Ups,” especially the 65
milers, then you are capable of doing the 200K.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><b>One last item:</b> This blog <i>started</i> as a means of communication and information about the <b>Audax Ride.</b><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>If you care to see more, feel free to go back and "mine" the years of posts. Not everything pertains to these rides, but a lot does, and there's a lot of other stuff in here too.</span><br />
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Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-91333014126059309952018-04-01T10:00:00.000-04:002018-04-01T10:00:18.713-04:00What in the world is an “Audax Ride”?<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">On Sunday, September
9, 2018 we will ride the annual<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax 200K.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This post is intended to provide the basic information about
this ride.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Who is this
“we”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well, it’s me, and anyone
who wants to come along and is in condition to do so.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you think you might be interested, please read on.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Let’s start with a
definition.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Audax (oh docks) – A style of group bicycle touring found mostly
in France, but also in Holland and Belgium to lesser degrees.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A steady pace is set by a road captain,
who is in charge of a group of fellow club members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In modern times the pace is usually about 22 km/h (13.5 mph)
between stops; the itinerary and resting places are planned in advance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">(from the Randonnuers
USA website)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Audax is a riding
style not often found in the United States. But what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> an Audax Tour?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
a group ride, where the group stays together. There is a group leader who is
responsible for setting the pace. There is a predetermined route. There are
reservations at the major stops for meals and lodging. It is a self-supported
tour. The group carries what is needed to accomplish the tour. If a member of
the group has a difficulty, the entire group stops and works as a team to fix
the problem, be it mechanical, a flat, or other issue.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">You find these types of ride in
Europe a lot. There are clubs, and organizations of these things all over the
continent. Some Audax events are long, multi-day affairs.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">The ride we do is a
200K. That’s about 125 miles. We do it in one day. There are several rest stops
along the way, and one really good lunch stop, with a full, sit-down meal.
There is a large “snack” at the end of the ride. The usual tone of the ride is
one of laughing chatter all day long. In short, it’s a lot of fun.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">The whole point of this
kind of ride is to enjoy the day with others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To ride with <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">company.</i><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Getting ready for the ride.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Doing 125 miles in one day can
sound intimidating. Oddly, a fair number of riders who have done this one, have
never gone farther than 65 miles at one time before ride day. It’s entirely
“doable.” Preparation begins with simply getting on the bike. Gradually build
time and capacity. The goal is to be doing 10 to 12 hours per week, by
mid-August.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have help and
advice on that, and you won’t have to do it all alone.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">We will provide two
items that will assist prospective riders to prepare for the 200K.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just as important, these activities
will help a rider to determine if he or she actually wants to do it.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Item One:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"> We will do a series
of “Tune Up” rides. These get
progressively longer, and cover terrain that will prepare a rider for the long
event. We ride the tune ups in
“Audax Style.” The group stays
together in mutual support. They,
like the 200K are self-supported. No SAG truck. No "staffed "break points." It's, "Do it ourselves or it doesn't get done. Bring it ourselves or it doesn't get brung." But the <i style="font-weight: bold;">spirit</i> of the thing is ,"One for all, and all for one!"</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">The tune ups start with a ride of approximately 35 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>at approximately two week intervals, we do four more “Tune
Ups.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two of these rides are 45
miles long and then there are two each 65 mile rides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These rides are designed to prepare riders for the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">200K.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More importantly, they allow prospective riders to decide if
this style of touring ride is for them or not.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The
“Tune Ups” will be ridden Audax Style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The group will stay together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>While not strictly “no drop rides,” we will not ride off and drop anyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes it happens that a rider has
to “abandon.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If this occurs, the
group will work to get that rider to a safe location, where there is food,
shelter, and help, so that they may arrange “pickup” and do so in safety.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;">Item Two:</span></b><span style="color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will post a plan
that any rider can use to prepare for these rides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Look for that in a post on this blog tomorrow.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-44291712845692589272017-06-05T05:00:00.000-04:002017-06-05T05:00:27.260-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: The S24O<div class="MsoNormal">
The <b>S24O.</b> Bringing back an old friend. The <b>S24O</b> is a low
key, high fun value, “micro tour.”
The title, when decoded, tells the tale. It stands for “Sub 24 hour Overnight.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">The idea is to launch between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then ride to an overnight destination,
and spend the night there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
get up and ride back in the morning, finishing up between 9:00 AM and 10:00
AM.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So the whole thing takes
around 17 to 18 hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These work
well on Friday or Saturday evenings, but <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">could</i>
be done on just about any day of the week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">The <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">S24O</b> works
for a trip to just about an kind of destination, but it’s ideal for an
overnight camping trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
destination could be a park, a friend’s remote back yard, or even (with
permission) a disused pasture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some very good destinations might require a drive to a “remote start.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a very flexible kind of thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">I’m researching possible destinations now, and will be
happy to accept any that some of you might offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ll keep you posted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-67543624551316059512017-05-31T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-31T05:00:05.475-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: Short tours? Long tours? Regional tours? Transcontinental?<div class="MsoNormal">
Some of the above could mean different things to different
people. Let’s start with a bit of
definition. </div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Short Tour:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s be
reasonable. And say this is anything that could be comfortably done in a two or
three day weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Say between 100
and 200 miles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Long Tour:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s say
this is something that could be done in a “normal” vacation, anything from a
week to a month.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Regional Tour:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Usually this
would be a trip across some region of the country, involving multiple states.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Transcontinental
(<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Transcon</i>):<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">All the way across the
country, east to west, or north to south, or anything of that magnitude.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="color: black;">Obviously, none of those definitions are rigid, or received
wisdom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are just general
guidelines.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve done a trip that
started in Delaware, crossed into Pennsylvania, then into Maryland, and back
into Delaware again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sounds
impressive, but that trip was only a bit over forty miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know of a location where it is
possible to Start in Maryland, visit Virginia and West Virginia, and be back in
time for lunch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I think we get
the picture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Multi state doesn’t
necessarily mean long, and there are places where doing an out-and-back in the
same state is an epic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Texas and
Alaska come to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s really
more about the distance and time involved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The idea is to have some general bounderies to talk
about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is important as things
change (sometimes radically) as we consider longer types of rides.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Training for
Short Tours:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This isn’t too hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One works on riding the bike and building time and endurance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the same time, it’s a good idea to
ride a bike that you will tour on, and load it as if you were touring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let me make this point <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">absolutely clear!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">huge</i></b> difference between
doing a 50 to 100 mile ride on a 20 pound bike, and the same distance over the
same terrain on a 50 to 75 pound “loaded” rig!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Train on the </i>heavy<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> bike!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Commuting and utility cycling is a great way to accomplish
this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, no, it’s not strictly
necessary to ride a fully loaded bike <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">all</i>
the time…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>just most of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>But
do keep <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this</i> in mind!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can train yourself up to handle a two
day tour, or a week long tour.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
thing is, it’s not possible to train up for a month long (or longer) trip.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For the long journeys, you can only get
into sufficient shape to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">begin.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After that, while under way, you will
ride yourself into condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
first week will be grand, but you will be getting tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second week will suck.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then you will slack off a bit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By the end of the third week, you’re
into it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After a month, you’re
made out of lumber.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Packing… Just <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">what</i> should be carried on a tour?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While
you are training, you can be refining what you pack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What and how much depends on your preferences, how far
you’re going, the time of year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Folks
who do bike tours tend to fall into one of two groups, the over-packers and the
under-packers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Interestingly, both
groups have the same problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No
matter how <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">much</i> you pack and how
carefully, you will, invariably leave something behind…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it will prove vital.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter how frugal you are with your
load, you will, invariably, carry something completely useless around with
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In both cases, you will
survive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your ingenuity and
adaptability will allow you to work it out.</span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-55314028017773148072017-05-29T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-29T05:00:20.937-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: Self Supported Touring<div class="MsoNormal">
The
title for this week’s topic conjures up what many people think of when hearing
the words “bicycle touring.” Also
known as “Loaded Touring,” and sometimes as “roll your own,” or even “heavy
touring,” this style is about traveling by bike and carrying all you need with
you. The “loaded touring bike” is
the Winnebago of the bicycle world. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Before
we delve any deeper into this, a quick digression is in order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone do
a “pure” kind of any type of touring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I know light tourists and credit card types who pack abit for
emergencies, and every “self supporter” I’ve ever known has confessed to the
occasional hotel stay, or a bit of “couch surfing.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The essence of touring is the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tour</i>, and the key skills and traits of any good tourist are
improvisation and adaptability.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>So
what is self-supported touring?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s about loading a suitable bike with all that’s needed to keep the
bike running and provide for the tourist’s daily needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about that for a moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> a style that lends itself to racing type bikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The machine for this stuff is designed
to carry loads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">heavy</i> loads!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Consider a list that includes only the top categories.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Tent<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Sleeping bag<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Sleeping pad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Cook stove and fuel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Camp dishes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Clothing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Tools<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">First Aid kit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Spare parts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Lights<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Book, computer, or
other writing equipment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Camera<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;">Add in water and a bit of food,
the racks and bags that support it all, and the load can easily be between 60
and 100 pounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;">There is an old saying, “You can
do three things on a bicycle, Have fun, go fast, carry a lot of stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pick <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">two.</i>”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Self Supported
touring is not about riding fast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s about being out on the road, traveling, and being
self-sufficient.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Loaded touring is
essentially a trip from one campsite to another, repeated until the journey’s
end.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">About the bike:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Touring bikes are built to be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tough.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Start with a rugged strong frame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That frame will have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i>
of eyelets and attachment points.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It will be equipped with a driveling that has a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i> of gears, and some seriously <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">low </i>ones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Think about
climbing a mountain pass on a 70 to 100 pound bike.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wheels will be stout and built to be strong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tires will be wider and tougher.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The fit will put the rider in a more
relaxed and upright position.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> a lightweight bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The basic machine, complete but without
racks, fenders or other accessories, will probably weigh in around 30 to 35 pounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This isn’t an Arabian, it’s a
Clydesdale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But this beast will
carry the rider a long, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">long</i> way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Loaded,
self-supported touring is not for everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">Loaded tourists tend to
travel solo, or in very small groups.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many folks would read the above and shudder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But others will be drawn to the idea of traveling in solituted,
relying on one’s own resourcefulness, and being the powerplant behind it
all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the idea of covering
ground on the open road, camping along the way, and providing for yourself as
you travel sounds good, then you might want to do more investigating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: .25in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Resource: Adventure Cycling</span></b><span style="color: black;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-70094828815121668242017-05-24T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-24T05:00:09.928-04:00HE TOURING CORNER: Credit Card Touring<div class="MsoNormal">
In a
way this is a minimalist approach to cycle tourism. The credit card approach is at the opposite end of the
spectrum from the fully loaded, self-supported, tourist. The type of bike isn’t important, but
the credit card tourist can be mounted on just about anything. Here’s an extreme example of the type.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Bill
plans to be in San Diego.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He does
a bit of research and calls a bicycle shop there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He arranges to rent a nice road bike for a few days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After arriving in San Diego, Bill picks
up the bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is carrying a very
light backpack, with a change of clothing and a few sundries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has made a reservation at a B &
B about 50 miles north of San Diego.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bill takes off on the bike, seeing the sights and exploring his way up
the coast.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He spends the night at
the B & B, where he has access to all the amenities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the second day, Bill rides further
north, enjoying the scenery and the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This day will be a “loop,” bringing Bill back to the B & B for a
second night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His third day will
take him back to San Diego, by an alternate scenic route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Along the way, Bill has purchase what
he needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has even arranged to
ship a couple of items home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Credit
Card tours are usually shorter in length and time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The single largest benefit is the freedom from carrying a
lot of stuff, and the flexibility to be very spontaneous.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This type of touring can work just as
well in one’s back yard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-32968797361795601172017-05-22T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-22T05:00:00.504-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: Trailers!?<div class="MsoNormal">
Previously
we have spoken of the influence of competition on road bike design. Generally speaking this type of bike is
not really suitable for touring. <i>However…</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">That
said, some kinds of touring can work well on a race oriented bike. For quite a
few years, I’ve used such a bike for a four day event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve loaded up my trailer, hooked it up
behind a pretty aggressive bike, and pulled it 65 miles to a <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bike MS</b> weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That combination allowed me carry
enough stuff to do the weekend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But once I got to the event, I dropped the trailer and had a nice,
light, fast bike to ride in the actual two days of the event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the event was over, I reloaded the
trailer, hooked it up, and pulled it back home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That worked well, but I would not want to do an extended tour
with that setup.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>That
last was a personal preference.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>For a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i> of tourists the
trailer strategy works and works <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">well.</i>
So let’s discuss for a moment the pros and cons of trailering a load.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The
first consideration is the “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">infrastructure
cost</i>” of a trailer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Infrastructure</i> is the stuff that
supports what you are doing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
we speak of “infrastructure cost,” we are not comparing purchase prices, but
rather the weight and energy required by a given system.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black;">EXAMPLE:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two liters of water may transported in two different
systems.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">2 bottles
and 2 cages:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>weight less than one
pound, attached to the bike frame<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">Hydration
Backpack:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Weight approx 2.5
ppounds, carried on rider’s back<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">In
this example the backpack has a higher infrastructure cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There may be other factors to consider,
which make the backpack a good choice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Trailers
have a higher infrastructure cost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Assume the bags are about equal in weight.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trailers will weigh in at 20 pounds, or more.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most racks weigh less than five
pounds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In addition, a trailer
adds to the length of the vehicle and usually increases the handling effort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">I’m
not arguing against the use of trailers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Every tour is different, and every tourist has different requirements
and objectives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For instance,
shorter riders require smaller bike frames.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often this makes it difficult to mount racks on the bike,
and the bike, when packed out, can be very unwieldy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, trailers can have great utility outside of
touring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A grocery trip can be a
lot more productive if it’s done with a trailer’s greater load volume.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The trailer can also allow a much
greater range of bicycle choices.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(See my example at the beginning of this article.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Two
wheel vs. single wheel:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Two wheel
trailers are more stable, but they have more drag and a wider track.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Frequently traffic considerations will
result in a two wheel trailer will dropping the right hand wheel off the road,
causing a tricky handling problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Single wheel trailers are less stable at low speeds, but they are not as
wide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In both cases <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">parking</i> can be a bit of a problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of note, the B.O.B. Yak™ solves this in
a handy way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a single wheel
trailer, but it is designed so that the rig can be “jackknifed” to park, and
then becomes stable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This
eliminates the need for a kickstand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Other concerns
and considerations:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does the
trailer connect to the bike?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
use clever modifications of the rear wheel skewer, others clamp to some part of
the bike frame.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
significant pros and cons to each of these attachment strategies.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-49368280981664557612017-05-17T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-17T05:00:00.160-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: Racks and Fenders, why?<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s
take the rack question first.
Racks provide a place to attach and carry stuff. Yes, it is possible to carry stuff in back
packs, but there’s a problem with that.
It’s a matter of energy management and balance.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Yes</span></i><span style="color: black;"> we
said <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">energy management.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You see, if you are touring by bike, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you</i> have to provide the energy that
moves the bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you pack a
bunch of stuff on your back or body, then you are also providing the energy to
hold that stuff up against gravity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Doesn’t seem fair does it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Put the load on the bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Let the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bike</i> be your beast of
burden.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">And
what about balance?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a matter
of physics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basic stability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you want an object to be stable, you
want to get the mass as low on the object as you can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are carry the weight on your back, it is a good two
to three feet higher than it could be in a bag that is hung on a rack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For touring purposes, you even want to
consider the order in which you load things in a bag.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, you want to put the heavy things on the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bottom</i>, and the lighter things on top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nuff said?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Now
let’s look at fenders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s the
thing about fenders, you only need them when it’s raining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s the other thing about fenders,
sooner or later it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> going to
rain.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rain isn’t that big a deal, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">if</i> you are close to home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can always ride home, get out of
your wet and nasties, shower, and dry off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But suppose you are a good bit farther away from home?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, suppose it isn’t all that
warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wouldn’t a set of fenders be
nice?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From our experience, the
likelihood of encountering rain on a tour is pretty good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Obviously it depends on how long the
tour is, but again from experience, we can derive the following rule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">On any one week tour, you are </i>guaranteed
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">to encounter </i>at least<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> least 24 hours of rain…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe more…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe a </i>lot<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> more!!</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, the answer is, plan to put fenders
on your touring bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">What <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">kind</i> of fenders?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We strongly suggest getting good ones,
and get the permanently attached kind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We’ve messed about with the quick mount/quick disconnect types.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They leave a good bit to be
desired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t provide enough
coverage, and they seem to always be shifting to a position that benefits you
the least.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, you’re
planning to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">tour,</i> right?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So what are you going to do, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">carry</i> the fenders with you and install
them when it starts to rain?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Two
more things on fenders:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once
you’ve decided what kind you want, go ahead and order a second complete set of
hardware for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Place this in a
bag on your big.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That should be a
bag that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">stays</i> on your bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trust us!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The time will come…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The other thing is that all of the currently commercially available
fenders, even the best ones,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>lack
coverage in an important area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>None of them seem to come with mud flaps!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We strongly recommend that you modify your fenders by adding
mud flaps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This will keep you a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i> drier and more comfortable when it
gets wet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">NOTE:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For an article on constructing fender
extending mud flaps, go to my <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax Ride
</b>blog here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<a href="http://audaxriders.blogspot.com/2011/11/projects-i-gotta-get-this-thing.html">http://audaxriders.blogspot.com/2011/11/projects-i-gotta-get-this-thing.html</a><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Before
reading the article, look at the picture in the title.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Notice that I’ve done exactly
this mod.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See how low the flap is
on the front fender?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t get <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">any</i> spray from the front wheel on my
feet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now read the post for
instructions on making the same highly practical and inexpensive modification
for yourself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-34922423168296811352017-05-15T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-15T05:00:09.308-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: What kind of bike do I need to do touring?<div class="MsoNormal">
Today's title raises a <i>great</i> question! And the answer is, “It depends…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">It
depends on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s your cycling background?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are your capabilities?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What fit and comfort issues do you have
on the bike?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">kind</i> of touring do you intend to do?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">At one
level, bicycles are tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes,
there is a lot of emotion that can be attached to them, but basically, they are
tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tools are defined by the
job they are intended to perform.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tools
fall into some broad general categories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some are very specific. A Park Tool Co.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> MLP 1.2, </b>for example, does exactly one thing, disconnect SRAM type
master links.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A hammer, on the
other hand is fairly general.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
made to hit things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be used
to hit a large variety of things..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Until
very recently, most road bikes where strongly influenced by <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">racing.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are the Park Tool <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MLP
1.2</b> of the bicycle world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
are pretty specific.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They mimic
professional racing forms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Want to
put a basket on one?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fenders?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">got</i> to be
kidding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Positions were aggressive,
stretched out, deep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Handlebars
were well below the saddle height.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Top tubes were relatively long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Wheel base was short.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These
things work for racing, but not so much for hauling a lot of stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Further, most people are not
comfortable spending a lot of time in that extended aggressive posture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So let’s look at several types of bikes
that are <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">intended</i> to be used for Touring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Interestingly,
there are bikes that are built for “light touring,” and others for “loaded
touring.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These machines are extremely
versatile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pack your gear and
go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t pack the bike and it’s
still a great grocery-getter, or commuter, or just a good fun comfortable ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or a great rainy day “training” bike<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Loaded:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></b><span style="color: black;">These are the Winnebago RVs of the
cycling world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bikes designed for
“loaded” touring are built with heavier, reinforced frames.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are designed to haul the tourist, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> 50 to 100 pounds of gear, over good
roads and bad, and to keep doing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They tend to have longer wheel base, long chain stays, a heavier frame, slacker
angles, and a more relaxed posture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Relaxed posture = more upright.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Usually the top tube will be relatively shorter, and the drop from the
saddle to the height of the handlebar will be significantly less.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have more clearance between the
stays and forks, to allow room for wider tires <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> fenders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will
have a generous number of threaded eyelets to allow mounting accessories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will be heavier than their racing
oriented counterparts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another important
point; the Loaded Tourist will have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i>
of gears, with special attention paid to very low gears for climbing and
pushing heavy loads into the wind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">If you want to see one example
of the type, look at the title block of my <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax
Ride</b> blog at </span><a href="http://audaxriders.blogspot.com/">http://audaxriders.blogspot.com</a><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There you
will see my trusty tourist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
another example check out the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Long Haul
Trucker</b>™ on the Surly website at </span><a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/disc_trucker">http://surlybikes.com/bikes/disc_trucker</a><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Light Touring:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">A light tourist shares
a lot of traits with it’s “heavy” cousin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The difference will be that a light tourer will usually be a lighter
bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It won’t be as strong as a
Loaded rig.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Possible the geometry
will lean a little more in the direction of “sportiness,” quick handling,
sometimes with a bit more in the way of high gears for faster cruising.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These bikes are designed with a sort of
sual purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They work well for
more casual touring, shorter distances with lighter loads, usually over shorter
times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Their other excellent
function is as a utility bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Light tourists make <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">great</i>
commuters and errand runners!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One
outstanding example of the type si the Surly <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cross-Check.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While not
specifically designed for touring, their design parameters match up almost
exactly with most light tourist needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To see look at the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Surly</b>
website </span><a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/cross_check">http://surlybikes.com/bikes/cross_check</a><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Additionally,
most of the major bike manufacturers now have offerings that are called
“endurance bikes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these
are suitable to the light tourist’s purposes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it should be noted that many are lacking in eyelets
for accessories such as racks and fenders, and most do not have ample clearance
for wider tires. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">CAUTION!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">If you are new to the
touring world,<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> start looking for a touring bike
yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This article is mean as a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">starting point.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hope it will get you thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep reading as we continue the series.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lots</i> more to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-80105652402512502102017-05-10T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-10T05:00:08.708-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: The Beginning (Part2)<div class="MsoNormal">
Last
week we proposed the concept of
starting one’s touring somewhat cautiously. This week we’ll take that a bit farther and go into some
detail.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Presumably,
if you are at all interested in this idea, then you are intrigued with the
concept of using your bike to get to someplace else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But first off, do you enjoy being on your bike for a long
time?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does the idea of taking time
to eat up distance sound right to you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If so, good!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Please
notice, we did not say that you have to be doing that kind of riding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> important that you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">want
to.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you aren’t doing longer
rides already, then I suggest that you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">start…</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">However!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please do not try to “eat the elephant
in one bite.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s a way to
increase your riding endurance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Begin where you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(look at your regular riding habits.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Keep a log.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Record your rides, dates, times,
distance, and a bit of commentary about conditions and routing is enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you aren’t doing this already, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">start!</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Begin increasing the
time you spend on the bike, but do it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">gradually.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Increase your regular
rides by small amounts each week, and add one day that is devoted to a longer
ride, say four to five hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Build up <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">gradually!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not more than a 5% increase for any one week, and no more
than a 10% increase for any one ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(This is where that log comes in handy.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">As you
are getting your legs, lungs and back side in condition, you can start thinking
about were you might like to go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Incidentally…</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Touring almost <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">always</i> involves
carrying some “stuff” on your bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not a bad idea to start doing that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is another activity that can be started off small and
easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to run out and
buy a utility/commuter/touring bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just start using the bike you have now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Run errands on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A backpack or messenger bag will work to do the hauling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A trip to the library, the hardware
store, the post office, or even light grocery shopping is a great way to
begin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Hey!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe starting a once a week commute
might work too!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Yes,
it’s easier to carry more stuff on a bike that is purpose-built for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we’re starting off slow and where
we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Remember?)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Truth is, for shorter distances, it’s
quite possible to carry moderate amounts of stuff in packs or bags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That allows you to start experiencing hauling
stuff around while riding on almost <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">any</i>
kind of bike.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-36148100089750026542017-05-08T05:00:00.000-04:002017-05-08T05:00:23.820-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: The Beginning (Part1)<div class="MsoNormal">
This
week we’ll address the question, <b><i>How
do I get started?</i></b> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">I
would like to share a little story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a bit of history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bear with me, it’s relevant.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Think
back to the era when the American continent was being explored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you remember that a lot of those
stories were about disasters?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Expeditions that never came back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Starvations and privations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>People wandering around in the wilderness for half of forever before
being rescued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does any of that
ring a bell?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">Well, here’s an alternate story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1670 the Hudson’s Bay Company was chartered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This company still exists, in a greatly
modified form, today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
explored most of what is now Canada, and did it very successfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They opened trading routes, established
frontier outposts, and did all of this with a great deal of success.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>One
of the key factors in that success was the “Hudson’s Bay Start.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It went a bit like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When an expedition was being planned
and mounted, all the provisions would be gathered, along with all the canoes
and all the people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything
would be loaded up, and then the group would set off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But they would not go far!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first camp was merely a “pull out,” frequently still in
sight of the fort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then the
expedition would have a meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Were they overloaded?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were
they carrying things that were not needed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was something missing that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i> needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did
everyone understand their duties?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
this way, if serious deficiencies were noted, the expedition could turn back
and correct the problems before becoming irrevocably committed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Back
when I started doing tour type riding, I could have used that advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, I got in over my head more
than once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">thought</i> I was doing good planning and preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took off with overloaded,
under-prepared bikes, determined to do a journey that was too long and too hard
for my condition and equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This makes for good stories, but bad experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">The
moral of the story is simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t
tackle the big stuff at the beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do your learning (and make your mistakes) close to home!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll learn to improvise and adapt,
but it’s a lot <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">easier</i> to learn the
big lessons and still be able to bail out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">To be
continued…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-52400144862274865662017-05-04T17:05:00.000-04:002017-05-04T17:24:53.093-04:00THE TOURING CORNER: Just what is “Bicycle Touring”?<div class="MsoNormal">
See that title? There are two parts to it. The first indicates that this is a feature. Posts with "<b>The Touring Corner</b>" as a title will be... About bicycle tour! The second part of this post's title brings up </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
today's topie.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That’s a simple question, but it’s not all that easy to pin
down. Use those two words together
on the majority of our fellow citizens and you’ll probably get a blank
look. Sometimes you get a reply
something like, “Oh, you mean that Tower dee Francy thing?” And yes, it’s called the “<i>Tour de France,</i>” but that’s a <i>race.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Mention
bicycle touring to an average cyclist and you probably conjure up images of
folks crossing the continent on bikes that are loaded down with huge bags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yes,</i>
that most certainly would be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">touring.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although that activity is usually
described as “self-supported touring.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Does
it count as “touring” if you sign on with one of those lovely guided
outfits?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The operator shleps your
luggage, prepares your meals, has guides on bikes with you, and usually has a
SAG van following along in case someone gets tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Think <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bike Ride
Across Georgia</b>. Also known as <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BRAG</b>.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, these are tours too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>One
might think that touring would involve a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">destination.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneurs </i>consider their events to be touring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But those events start and finish at
the same place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does that
disqualify them?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>That
last brings up a philosophical point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What makes a “tour”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it
necessary to have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">destination</i> that
is the reason for the trip?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or,
like the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneurs</i>, is the journey
the destination?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>What
about “credit card touring”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
that matter, every year in June a bunch of serious crazies <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">race</i> across the continent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s called <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Race Across America</i></b> or <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">RAAM.</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It most definitely a race, but it accomplishes that trip
across the country that is pictured in the minds of those who visualized the
fully loaded bicycle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In
the Spring of every year, I invite folks to accompany me on a one day, 125 mile
ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We do it self-supported, and
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneur </i>style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We accomplish this trip in one
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> qualify as touring?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Seems
like there might be as many definitions of “touring” as there are
“tourists.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The common elements
are a human on a bicycle, a route, and a destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, touring is about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">going somewhere</i>, and doing it on a bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yes,</i> I do
believe that the route and the experience of traveling it, are a big part of
the answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Here are a few other interesting questions
about the activity:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">I like
the idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I get started?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">What
kind of bike do I need to do touring?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Tell
me more about this “credit card touring” thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does that work?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Tell
me more about this “self supported” thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does that work?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">What
is this “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneuring</i>” thing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Hey!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s up with this <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bikepacking</i> stuff?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Riding
across the country sounds interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How do I go about that?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Short
tours? Long tours?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regional
tours?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Transcontinental?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">In
future editions, we’ll be discussing these topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s going to be an interesting and fun journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-38917760373237740432017-04-28T08:35:00.001-04:002017-04-28T08:35:27.169-04:00SPECIAL: DEALING WITH THE TRAFFIC EMERGENCY STRATEGY AND TACTICS<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no doubt, the traffic situation in, and around
Atlanta is truly an Emergency.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let me start by saying, I am truly impressed with what is
being done to repair the damaged section of I-85.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Immediately after the bridge collapsed we heard that it
would take six to nine months to get this thing fixed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now we are hearing that the project may
be finished by mid to late May!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>That’s incredible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We will still have to face a 24/7 traffic catastrophe for
more than a month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m writing
this Special Edition with the hope that some of the following suggestions may help deal with the situation.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A lot of the following will concern cycling as a means to
deal with Atlanta’s current transportation problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some things will be useful to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">anyone</i>, with or without a bike. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">THE BICYCLE AS A PART
OF THE SOLUTION:</b><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We’re hearing a lot of “advice” from the powers that
be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carpool, they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use “transit,” they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Allow more time (a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i> more time!) to get to destinations, they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you can, telework, they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Avoid regular routes and consider
recommended alternatives, they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>All of these are good ideas, but they overlook some things, and there
are problems with some of these.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One thing I haven’t heard, is that the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">BICYCLE</i> is a really sound alternative!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Atlanta is just not
that big!</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From Turner Field to
the intersection of West Paces Ferry and Peachtree is just a bit over <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">seven miles.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b></i>From the
intersection of Marietta Blvd and Bankhead to Avovndale Estates in Decatur is
a bit over <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">nine miles.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></b></i>And those distances do not represent the most efficient
routing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are well within the
power of a modest effort on a bicycle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cycling inside the
metro </b>requires some attention and caution, but it is quite doable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Automotive traffic gets in its own way,
and slows or stops the cars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
fairly easy to move around and through this on the bike.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">THE BIG PROBLEM IS
GETTING <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">TO</i> THE CITY AND AROUND <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">IN</i> IT.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are the elements of the solutions:</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Bicycles are allowed on MARTA trains.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">MARTA busses all have racks that will carry two
bicycles.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">There are racks for locking bikes at the train
stations.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">MARTA bus lines extend down into Riverdale and
Newnan.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Bus routes interconnect with the train stations.</span></li>
</ul>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Parking at the MARTA
train stations is a part of the problem.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The MARTA lots are filling early in the day.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">STRATEGIES<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>FOR MULTI-MODE COMMUTING<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Strategy One:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bike-Train</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you live within convenient bike distance to one of the
train stations, your problem is solved!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just ride there, lock your bike and take the ttrain.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Stategy Two:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bike-Train-Bike</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If your in-town destination is not a convenient walking
distance from a MARTA train station, take the bike with you on the train.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then train into the city, and ride to
your destination.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Strategy Three:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bike-Bus-Train</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A lot of us live an inconvenient distance from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">any</i> MARTA line and even farther from the
train stations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So ride the bike
to the bus route.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take the bus, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">with</i> your bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Load the bike on the rack on the front
of the bus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Remember</i> to tell the driver you are unloading your bike when you
get off the bus!)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bus will
take you to the train station.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
can then either lock your bike there, or take it on the train into the city.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Strategy Four:
Car-Bike-Bus-Train</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some (many) of us live an uncomfortable distance from <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">any</i> MARTA component.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Load the bike on the car.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drive to some relatively secure parking
location and park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unload the bike
and ride it to the bus stop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>From
there on, it’s the same as <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Strategy
Three.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">TACTICS FOR MULTIMODE
COMMUTERS<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Securing your ride:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i>
use a fancy bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A reliable
“beater” and a heavy lock are the best solution.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It actually <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">helps</i>
if the bike is stone <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">ugly.</i> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t skimp on the lock, and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">do</i> learn how to lock your bike <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">securely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>(We’re happy to discuss this with you in the shop.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Clothing Changes:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The weather is clement right now, but
it could turn wet or hot in an instant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dress for your commute, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i>
your workday or meeting, or whatever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Pack a change of clothing in a waterproof bag or backpack.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Change when you get into town.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Advanced Commuting
Tactic for Clothing:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make a
“laundry run.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Drive in on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">one </i>day of the week, taking clothing for
your week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On that same day bring
the laundry and cleaning from the last week home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This frees you up on the other days of the week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(You <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">could</i> even make the “laundry run” on a weekend day.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Dealing With the
Funk:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>If you have access to
shower facilities, at a gym, health club, or the office, you are a happy
person.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of us don’t have that
luxury. Here’s how to cope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Purchase a pistol-grip spary bottle from Lowes or Home Depot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fill it with the following “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Shower in A Bottle</i>” recipe.</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Eight parts water</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->One part liquid body soap</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->One part clear vinegar</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->(Be sure to pack a towel!)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shake well before using.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once you arrive near your destination, use a restroom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peel your ride clothing off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spray the magic stuff on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use your towel to scrub and dry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then apply deodorant / antiperspirant/cologne
to your personal taste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(HINT:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Add one part of
either rubbing alcohol or witch hazel for an astringent cooling effect.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Making the Most of
the Time:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use a backpack,
bike-pack, or bag that has a laptop sleeve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Carry your tablet or laptop with you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You can do work, or read the news
whilst sitting on the bus or train and letting someone <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">else</i> do the driving.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">HINTS:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s a very good idea to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">practice
</i>your commute route <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">before</i> you “go
live.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ride the bike parts on an off-day, weekend, or the like.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Make a “trial run” into town via the MARTA System.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do some research on MARTA’s website.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Learn the routes you will need, and get
the details on taking your bike on the bus and/or train.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Perhaps using the transit system will be sufficient for
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If so well and good!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are no longer part of the
problem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For many, some variation
of bike and transit will likely provide a shorter commute, and most certainly a
more <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">consistent</i> one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">know</i> how long it takes t get to your destination, and the stress
will be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">greatly</i> reduced.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, you will be taking another car
out of the mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who knows?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe you will grow to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">like</i> this stuff.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Be wise and safe in your travels,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-3192074012914779552017-04-10T06:38:00.004-04:002017-04-10T06:38:49.464-04:00Audax How & Why<div class="MsoNormal">
Below you will find a bit more detailed information about
the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax 200K</b> and the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax 65 Mile Tune Up Rides.</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">AUDAX 200K:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Details:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Date/Time: </b>May
21, 2017 at 07:00 (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sharp!</i>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Location:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bicycles Unlimted, 266 S Peachtree
Parkway, Peachtree City</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Distance:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>125 miles</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pace:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Audax Style ride, group will stay
together (allow approx 12 hours)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Conditions:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Rain or shine</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Required:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sound bicycle, helmets will be worn
when riding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring a smile.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cost:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a small fee to cover lunch,
post ride snacks, and water along the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the past this has been around $27 dollars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will be announcing the price for
this year’s run in the near future.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a different sort of ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will be riding this “Audax Style.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a type of group riding not
often practiced in the U.S.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a
touring type ride, where the group stays together in mutual support.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The route is predetermined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A schedule is followed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Reservations are made for a
sit-down meal in the middle of the ride.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>These
are not strictly, “no drop” rides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But the spirit is, “One for All, and All for One!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If anyone has a problem, then the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">group</i> has a problem, and will work
together to fix it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The pace tends
to be constant across the entire ride, but it is moderate enough to encourge
socializing and camaraderie.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Why do one of these rides?</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The answers to that question range
from,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Because it’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">there!</i>” to “I don’t like the typical,
pseudo race, short, fast paced type rides one usually finds.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d like a more relaxed pace, and I’d
like to be able to <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">see</i> stuff while I
ride.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The
route for this ride is chosen to avoid a lot of traffic, and to provide a lot
of pleasant scenery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes, there
are some spots where we have to “tighten up” and ride with discipline, but they
are minimal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a long day of
fun in the saddle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Consider
this, while this is <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> a beginner
ride, many people who have done this ride for the first time, have never ridden
a 100 mile day before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For most
new to this, the longest ride to date has been 65 miles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yet, the successful completion rate
has been very high.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The majority
of those who start one of these rides, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">finish
it.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> is the core of the experience, to do a long ride with friends,
and <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">finish</i> the thing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>There
is a magical synergy to riding with a group whose purpose is to see that
everyone finishes in good order.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The whole <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> greater than the
sum of the parts!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax 65 mile Tune
Up:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Date/Time: </b>April 30,
2017 at 11:00 (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">sharp!</i>)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Location:</b>
Peachtree Corners Shopping Center, Peachtree City</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(Please park in front of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Fresh Market</b>, but locate closest to GA-54 to avoid inconvenience to
merchants.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Distance:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>65 miles (hilly)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Pace:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Audax Style ride, group will stay
together </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Conditions:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>Rain or shine</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Required:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A sound bicycle, helmets will be worn
when riding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring a smile.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cost:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No charge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bring cash for snacks and water.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The purpose of these “Tune Ups” is to prepare for the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax 200K.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are two parts to that preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>First is the physical preparation, i.e.
is my equipment ready, and am <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I</i> ready
to do a 125 mile single-day ride?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The second purpose is more organizational.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We will practice riding “Audax Style.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In
an “Audax Ride” the group stays together.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This means that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">everyone</i> must
make adjustments and compromises.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The climbers must ease up on the the hills, not dropping the more
“vertically challenged.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
diesels have to moderate on the flats, not riding the legs off of the less powerful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The demon descenders need to apply some
braking so as to not pull the ride apart and terrify the less bold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Everyone</i>
looks out for the welfare of all others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a different kind of ride.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>We
encourage all to be readily forthcoming about problems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Mechanicals” get dealt with, on the
spot, with the whole group stopped.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Other kinds of problems are also worked by the group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s amazing how creative and
supportive a small group of cyclists can be!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also amazing how much flexibility is available to the
group, when all are focused on the same goal and ideal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you have further questions, concerns, or curiosities,
please contact me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="mailto:The.Road.Dragon@gmail.com">The.Road.Dragon@gmail.com</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Or phone <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bicycles
Unlimited </b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>770-486-9252</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Or a stop in to the shop.</div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-59468821096913493102016-10-26T08:22:00.000-04:002016-10-26T08:22:40.070-04:00The Touring Corner ~ What kind of bike do I need for touring?<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
Today's title poses a <i>great</i> question! And the answer is, “It depends…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">It
depends on <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">you.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s your cycling background?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What are your capabilities?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What fit and comfort issues do you have
on the bike?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">kind</i> of touring do you intend to do?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">At one
level, bicycles are tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yes,
there is a lot of emotion that can be attached to them, but basically, they are
tools.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tools are defined by the
job they are intended to perform.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tools
fall into some broad general categories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Some are very specific. A Park Tool Co.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> MLP 1.2, </b>for example, does exactly one thing, disconnect SRAM type
master links.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A hammer, on the
other hand is fairly general.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
made to hit things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be used
to hit a large variety of things..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Until
very recently, most road bikes where strongly influenced by <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">racing.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are the Park Tool <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">MLP
1.2</b> of the bicycle world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
are pretty specific.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They mimic
professional racing forms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Want to
put a basket on one?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How?</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fenders?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">got</i> to be
kidding!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Positions were
aggressive, stretched out, deep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Handlebars were well below the saddle height.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Top tubes were relatively long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wheel base was short.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>These things work for racing, but not so much for hauling a lot of
stuff.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Further, most people are
not comfortable spending a lot of time in that extended aggressive posture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So let’s look at several types of bikes
that are <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">intended</i> to be used for
Touring.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Interestingly,
there are bikes that are built for “light touring,” and others for “loaded
touring.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These machines are
extremely versatile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pack your
gear and go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t pack the bike
and it’s still a great grocery-getter, or commuter, or just a good fun
comfortable ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or a great rainy
day “training” bike<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Loaded:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></b><span style="color: black;">These are the Winnebago RVs of the
cycling world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bikes designed for
“loaded” touring are built with heavier, reinforced frames.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are designed to haul the tourist, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> 50 to 100 pounds of gear, over good
roads and bad, and to keep doing it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They tend to have longer wheel base, long chain stays, a heavier frame, slacker
angles, and a more relaxed posture.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(Relaxed posture = more upright.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Usually the top tube will be relatively shorter, and the drop from the
saddle to the height of the handlebar will be significantly less.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have more clearance between the
stays and forks, to allow room for wider tires <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">and</i> fenders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will
have a generous number of threaded eyelets to allow mounting accessories.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They will be heavier than their racing
oriented counterparts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another
important point; the Loaded Tourist will have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lot</i> of gears, with special attention paid to very low gears for
climbing and pushing heavy loads into the wind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">If you want to see one example
of the type, look at the title block of my <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax
Ride</b> blog at up at this blog's masthead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There you will see my trusty
tourist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For another example check
out the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Long Haul Trucker</b>™ on the
Surly website <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/disc_trucker">HERE</a>.</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Light Touring:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">A light tourist shares
a lot of traits with it’s “heavy” cousin.
The difference will be that a "light tourist" will be (wait for it) lighter than a loaded tourist. Incidentally, "lighter" is a <i>relative</i> term. It won’t be as strong as a
Loaded rig. Possibly the geometry
will lean a little more in the direction of “sportiness,” quick handling,
sometimes with a bit more in the way of high gears for faster cruising. These bikes are designed with a sort of dual purpose. They work well for
more casual touring, shorter distances with lighter loads, usually over shorter
times. Their other excellent
function is as a utility bike.
Light tourists make <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">great</i>
commuters and errand runners! One
outstanding example of the type si the Surly <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cross-Check.</b> While not
specifically designed for touring, its design parameters match up almost
exactly with most light tourist needs.
To see look at the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Surly</b>
website <a href="http://surlybikes.com/bikes/cross_check">HERE</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Additionally,
most of the major bike manufacturers now have offerings that are called
“endurance bikes."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of these
are suitable to the light tourist’s purposes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it should be noted that many are lacking in eyelets
for accessories such as racks and fenders. Also of note, most do not have ample clearance
for wider tires. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">CAUTION!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">If you are new to the
touring world,<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> </b>do <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i> start looking for a touring bike
yet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This article is mean as a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">starting point.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We hope it will get you thinking.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep reading as we continue the
series.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">lots</i> more to come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-37299193568089203162016-10-18T05:00:00.000-04:002016-10-18T05:00:05.176-04:00The Touring Corner ~ The Beginning (Part2)<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
Last
week we proposed the concept of
starting one’s touring somewhat cautiously. This week we’ll take that a bit farther and go into some
detail.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Presumably,
if you are at all interested in this idea, then you are intrigued with the
concept of using your bike to get to someplace else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But first off, do you enjoy being on your bike for a long
time?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does the idea of taking time
to eat up distance sound right to you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If so, good!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Please
notice, we did not say that you have to be doing that kind of riding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> important that you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">want
to.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you aren’t doing longer
rides already, then I suggest that you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">start…</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">However!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Please do not try to “eat the elephant
in one bite.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s a way to
increase your riding endurance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Begin where you
are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(look at your regular riding
habits.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Keep a log.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Record your rides, dates, times,
distance, and a bit of commentary about conditions and routing is enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you aren’t doing this already, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">start!</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Begin increasing the
time you spend on the bike, but do it <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">gradually.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Increase your regular
rides by small amounts each week, and add one day that is devoted to a longer
ride, say four to five hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: black; font-family: "symbol"; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: black;">Build up <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">gradually!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not more than a 5% increase for any one week, and no more
than a 10% increase for any one ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>(This is where that log comes in handy.)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">As you
are getting your legs, lungs and back side in condition, you can start thinking
about were you might like to go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Incidentally…</span></b><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Touring almost <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">always</i> involves
carrying some “stuff” on your bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Not a bad idea to start doing that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is another activity that can be started off small and
easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t have to run out
and buy a utility/commuter/touring bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just start using the bike you have now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Run errands on it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A backpack or messenger bag will work to do the hauling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A trip to the library, the hardware
store, the post office, or even light grocery shopping is a great way to
begin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Hey!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe starting a once a week commute
might work too!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Yes,
it’s easier to carry more stuff on a bike that is purpose-built for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we’re starting off slow and where
we are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Remember?)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Truth is, for shorter distances, it’s
quite possible to carry moderate amounts of stuff in packs or bags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That allows you to start experiencing hauling
stuff around while riding on almost <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">any</i>
kind of bike.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-11633224434946986852016-10-11T05:00:00.000-04:002016-10-11T05:00:00.195-04:00The Touring Corner ~ Beginning (Part1)<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
This
week we’ll address the question,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">How
do I get started?</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">I
would like to share a little story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This is a bit of history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bear with me, it’s relevant.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">Think
back to the era when the American continent was being explored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you remember that a lot of those
stories were about disasters?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Expeditions that never came back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Starvations and privations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>People wandering around in the wilderness for half of forever before
being rescued.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does any of that
ring a bell?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: black;">Well, here’s an alternate story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1670 the Hudson’s Bay Company was chartered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This company still exists, in a greatly
modified form, today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
explored most of what is now Canada, and did it very successfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They opened trading routes, established
frontier outposts, and did all of this with a great deal of success.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>One
of the key factors in that success was the “Hudson’s Bay Start.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It went a bit like this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When an expedition was being planned
and mounted, all the provisions would be gathered, along with all the canoes
and all the people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everything
would be loaded up, and then the group would set off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But they would not go far!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The first camp was merely a “pull out,” frequently still in
sight of the fort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then the
expedition would have a meeting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Were they overloaded?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Were
they carrying things that were not needed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Was something missing that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">was</i> needed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did
everyone understand their duties?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
this way, if serious deficiencies were noted, the expedition could turn back
and correct the problems before becoming irrevocably committed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Back
when I started doing tour type riding, I could have used that advice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, I got in over my head more
than once.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">thought</i> I was doing good planning and preparation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took off with overloaded,
under-prepared bikes, determined to do a journey that was too long and too hard
for my condition and equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This makes for good stories, but bad experiences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;">The
moral of the story is simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t
tackle the big stuff at the beginning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Do your learning (and make your mistakes) close to home!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll learn to improvise and adapt,
but it’s a lot <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">easier</i> to learn the
big lessons and still be able to bail out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="color: black;">To be
continued…<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-49992800993136900942016-10-04T13:09:00.000-04:002016-10-04T13:09:02.567-04:00The Touring Corner<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
I've begun a series in my weekly e-newsletter. We're examining the subject of Bicycle Touring.To make this just a bit more accessible, I'm re-posting each week's article here.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Just what <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i>
“Bicycle Touring”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b><span style="color: black;">That’s a simple question, but it’s not all that easy to pin
down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Use those two words together
on the majority of our fellow citizens and you’ll probably get a blank
look.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes you get a reply
something like, “Oh, you mean that Tower dee Francy thing?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yes, it’s called the “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tour de France,</i>” but that’s a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">race.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt;">
<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Mention
bicycle touring to an average cyclist and you probably conjure up images of
folks crossing the continent on bikes that are loaded down with huge bags.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yes,</i>
that most certainly would be <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">touring.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although that activity is usually
described as “self-supported touring.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Does
it count as “touring” if you sign on with one of those lovely guided
outfits?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The operator shleps your
luggage, prepares your meals, has guides on bikes with you, and usually has a
SAG van following along in case someone gets tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Think <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Bike Ride
Across Georgia</b>. Also known as <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">BRAG</b>.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But, these are tours too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>One
might think that touring would involve a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">destination.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneurs </i>consider their events to be touring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But those events start and finish at
the same place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does that
disqualify them?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>That
last brings up a philosophical point.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What makes a “tour”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is it
necessary to have a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">destination</i> that
is the reason for the trip?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or,
like the <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneurs</i>, is the journey
the destination?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>What
about “credit card touring”?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For
that matter, every year in June a bunch of serious crazies <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">race</i> across the continent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s called <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Race Across America</i></b> or <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">RAAM.</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It most definitely a race, but it accomplishes that trip
across the country that is pictured in the minds of those who visualized the
fully loaded bicycle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>In
the Spring of every year, I invite folks to accompany me on a one day, 125 mile
ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We do it self-supported, and
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneur </i>style.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We accomplish this trip in one
day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Does <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">that</i> qualify as touring?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Seems
like there might be as many definitions of “touring” as there are
“tourists.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The common elements
are a human on a bicycle, a route, and a destination.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Basically, touring is about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">going somewhere</i>, and doing it on a bike.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">yes,</i> I do
believe that the route and the experience of traveling it, are a big part of
the answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Here are a few other interesting questions
about the activity:</span></b><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">I like
the idea.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How do I get started?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">What
kind of bike do I need to do touring?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Tell
me more about this “credit card touring” thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does that work?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Tell
me more about this “self supported” thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How does that work?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">What
is this “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Randonneuring</i>” thing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Hey!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s up with this <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">bikepacking</i> stuff?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Riding
across the country sounds interesting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How do I go about that?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Short
tours? Long tours?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regional
tours?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Transcontinental?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;">In
future editions, we’ll be discussing these topics.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s going to be an interesting and fun journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-61474303269235688282016-02-15T05:49:00.000-05:002016-02-15T05:49:00.149-05:00AUDAX RIDE AND TUNE-UPS: THE STRUCTURE<div class="MsoNormal">
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In response to several requests, we’re going to take a bit of time here and go over some important specifics about the <b>Audax 200K</b> and the <b>Audax Tune Ups.</b></div>
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<b>Let’s get the money thing out of the way first.</b> For the <b>Audax Tune Up </b> rides, you will need to pack snacks, or bring a bit of cash for food along the way. There is a fee for the <b>Audax 200K.<i> </i></b>We’ve tried to keep this down to a minimum. The fee covers your lunch (at a <i>resaurant</i>) and water at the other stops, and a post ride sandwich snack. We don’t yet know what the exact amount will be this year, but it is unlikely to be a lot higher than in the past. In recent years, it’s been $27.00 per rider. We’ll let you know exact amounts soon.</div>
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<b>Ride structure:</b> We will ride each of the <b>Audax Tune Ups</b> in the same fashion as the <b>Audax 200K.</b> That is to say, we will stay together as a group. Some will find the pace somewhat relaxed. Others may need to stretch a bit to hold it. In general, we try to hold to a 13 to 15 mph <i>rolling</i> average.</div>
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<b>Yes! There will be stops along the way.</b> Here’s the profile:</div>
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<b>Tune Up I:</b> 35 miles. One stop, approximately mid-way.</div>
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<b>Tune Ups II and III:</b> 45 miles. Two stops, one at approximately15 miles </div>
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and one at approximately 30 miles</div>
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<b>Tune Ups IV and V:</b> 65 miles. Two planned stops, at approximately 15 and</div>
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40 miles. One optional stop at approx 55 miles.</div>
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All break-stops are kept to a minimum time. We attend nature’s call, refill bottles, snack, and then <i>roll!</i> There <i>is </i>an exception to that. On the 65 mile Tune Ups, the second stop is a “lunch break,” and will be a bit longer.</div>
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<b>Audax 200K:</b> Optional stop at approximately 15 miles. Planned stop at approx 35 miles. Planned stop at approximately 50 miles. Lunch break at approx 65 miles. Planned stop at approx 82 miles. Planned stop at approx 105 miles. </div>
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We hope this is helpful in your planning and decision making.</div>
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Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-24051087298158081582016-02-01T04:30:00.000-05:002016-02-01T04:30:00.768-05:00The Audax 200K ~ Starting to Begin to Get Ready<div class="MsoNormal">
This month, we do the first of the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax Tune Up Rides.<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i></b>This one is sort of the “ice
breaker.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember, the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Audax 200K</b> is a <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">self-supported</i> ride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One of the aspects of the Tune Ups is preparation for that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These rides give us the opportunity to
ride in “Audax Style.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They are
also a chance to begin the process of riding with the “necessities” of
self-supported style.</div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>There
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">is</i> a bit of a contradiction
here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A Tune Up in February, for a
ride that will take place in May.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One could, reasonably ask,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“How much will I learn for a warm weather ride, while it’s still
freakin’ <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Winter!?</i>” </div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I
can hear my father saying, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“It
builds character.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To which I will
add, “Yu might be surprised at just what you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">will</i> learn.”</div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Seriously,
it is good to start getting the mind into the frame of planning and selecting
gear and equipment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ride in
the group is excellent practice too.</div>
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(Just by the way... You will find the dates for the whole Tune Up series, and the Audax 200K, to the right in the <b>Tour Calendar </b>gadget.)</div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-76723389605586773272016-01-25T04:30:00.000-05:002016-01-25T04:30:10.582-05:00Preparing for the 2016 AUDAX 200KFolks, it's time to begin. The "road to an <strong>Audax 200K</strong> is ahead and waiting.<br />
In order to make this information available to the widest possible audience, we are repeating sections of our "weekly" emailing here. We hope you find this helpful. Please do enjoy!<br />
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<b>AUDAX RIDES</b>: Possibly the first question that occurs, is “Just what <i>is</i> an <b>Audax Ride</b> when it’s not all dressed up for church?”</div>
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The simplest answer is that it is a group touring ride, over a predetermined course, with pre-arranged stops. The somewhat unique thing about this style of riding is that it is a group ride, where the <b><i>group stays together.</i></b> No one is left behind. It is not a competitive event. If anyone has a problem the whole group stops and works the problem. It’s a slef-supported ride, but ride in mutual support. The motto is “<i>One for All, and All for One!”</i></div>
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Other important info on the <b>Audax Ride:</b></div>
<span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>200 K means 200 <i>kilometers.</i> This is approximately 125 miles.<br />
<span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Yes, it’s a long ride, and <i>YES</i> if you start preparing now, you <i>CAN</i> do it!<br />
<span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>Over the years that we have been doing this, roughly half the people who successfully finished fit the following profile:<br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new";">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>They’ve never done a long ride before</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new";">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>They haven’t ridden 45 miles before the 45 Mile Tune Ups</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new";">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>They haven’t ridden 65 miles before the 65 mile Tune Ups</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new";">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>They haven’t ridden 100 miles before the 125 mile ride!</div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new";">o<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>They did all of these things and had a great time on the 125 mile ride!</div>
<span style="font-family: "symbol";">·<span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span>This is the stuff works!<br />
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<b>So you might be asking, “How do I start getting ready for this?”</b> The answer is simple. Start riding your bike at least three to four times a week, for at least 1 to 2 hours at a time. (Hint: the <b>Bicycles Unlimited Spin Class </b>would be a good place to do two of these rides every week.) And, to clarify, that 3 to 4 rides per week could be 3 each one hour rides and one two hour ride. <i>Yes</i> the weather is challenging. Trainer work counts, and there are god riding opportunities. You don’t have to ride hard, and distance isn’t the object. <i>Time</i> <i>in the saddle</i> is the critical factor at this point.<br />
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<strong>NOTE:</strong> If you are interested in receiving my semi-weekly email, the <strong>TOME</strong>, please contact me at <strong>Bicycles Unlimited 770-486-9252</strong></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8931787414489234151.post-49351453502914020742015-02-06T19:11:00.000-05:002015-02-06T19:11:19.956-05:00Audax Ride Series 2015 Edition<br />
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">What the heck is an Audax Ride? The following definition is from the <a href="http://www.rusa.org/" style="color: #3d81ee; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="color: #3260f7; text-decoration: none;">Randonnuers USA website</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #dc261b; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">Audax (oh docks) - A style of group bicycle touring found mostly in France, but also in Holland and Belgium to lesser degrees. A steady pace is set by a road captain, who is in charge of a group of fellow club members. In modern times the pace is usually about 22 km/h (13.5mi/h) between stops; the itinerary and resting places are planned in advance.</span><span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">For the purposes of this blog, we are talking about doing a 200 kilometer (approximately 125 mile) audax style ride. Ours will go on Saturday, May 16, 2015.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">Why should I do this thing?</span></b><span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;"><span> </span>One could be forgiven for wondering that.<span> </span>Here’s an attempt at an anser:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/scribe/list_icon.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0.3em; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.6em; padding-left: 17px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c; font-size: 17px;">It feels good to meet a challenge (and 125 miles with a mountain in the middle certainly qualifies)</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/scribe/list_icon.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0.3em; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.6em; padding-left: 17px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c; font-size: 17px;">It’s good to engage with others in a mutual goal.</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/scribe/list_icon.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0.3em; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.6em; padding-left: 17px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c; font-size: 17px;">There is a sort of magic synergy that occurs when a group of riders decides to enter a non-competitive endeavor.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c; font-size: 17px;"><span> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c; font-size: 17px;">Somehow our strengths add and our weaknesses diminish.</span></li>
<li style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: url(http://www.blogblog.com/scribe/list_icon.gif); background-origin: initial; background-position: 0% 0.3em; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; line-height: 1.5em; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0.6em; padding-left: 17px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c; font-size: 17px;">It’s an absolutely great day!</span></li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><b>Getting Ready:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">To aid folks in preparing for this style of riding, and this particular ride, I’m leading five “tune up” rides.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">Audax Tune Up Rides:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #20242c;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;">22 February (Sunday) 1:00 PM 35 miles (approx)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">8 March (Sunday): 1:00 PM, 45 miles (approx)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">29 March (Sunday): 1:00 PM, 45 miles (approx)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">12 April (Sunday): 11:00 AM, 65 miles (approx)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">3 May (Sunday): 11:00 AM, 65 miles (approx)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">I can pretty much assure you that, if you do all of these, you will be able to handle the <b>200K</b>.<span> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">We will ride these in an Audax style. The group will stay together. The pace will be moderate. We will be riding a predetermined course. Anyone who is willing to abide by the intent and spirit of these rides is welcome to come along. The rides will leave from the front of Bicycles Unlimited, in Peachtree City, GA.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">A necessary few words about the <b>Tune Up Rides:</b><span> </span>The group will stay together in mutual aid and support.<span> </span>There will be no SAG.<span> </span>We’re doing this as self-supported rides.<span> </span>The terrain for these rides is (deliberately) more hilly and more challenging than that which will be encountered on the 200K.<span> </span>The idea here is simple.<span> </span>“If I can do something that is <i>harder</i> than the actual ride, then I’ll certainly be able to standup to the ride itself.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">There will be a fee for the actual Audax Ride, on 16 May. This fee will cover your lunch (sit down at a good restaurant), a post ride sandwich snack, and water refills along the ride. There are no fees for the “Tune Ups.” Ride fee is payable, in advance, by check or cash.<span> </span>I don’t have enough info yet to set a precise number on the fee, but it will most certainly be no more than $30.00.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">Hope to see many of you all there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">I'll be posting more info on all of this soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #20242c; font-family: Times; font-size: 13pt;">Oh yes, one last and critically important note: Helmets required on <i>all</i> rides.</span></div>
Road Dragonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00975165149530850248noreply@blogger.com0