News
Articles: Wiggins: "I'm a better rider than Lance." A perspective from Hey Arnold and Dirty
"Screw that old Texan, Bradley."
As grandpa once said on the old “Hey Arnold” cartoon, “simmer down, you hot headed looney.” Bradley Wiggins, your yap is flapping.
At a track meet in Manchester called Revolution 26, Wiggins talked up his podium chances in the 2010 Tour De France. And talked down a certain seven-time tour winner.
“It will make for an interesting race,” said Wiggins. “And I still think I’m a better rider than Lance and a few of the other guys.”
... another take on the world of professional bike racing from the weird people at Twisted Spoke
Published: Mar 09, 2010 - 04:28 PM
Articles: A Canadian Olympic Moment ...
I’ve delayed writing this for exactly one week.
The competition that took place last Sunday was the one of the best races of my sporting career (if not my best). No question. Yet, it continues to be the hardest loss to deal with mentally.
I understand that to be 4th or 5th at an Olympics is outstanding. I know that in placing 4th and 5th during one Olympics is phenomenal – and I am still shocked that I was able to have races like the ones I just had: especially during the two weeks when every athlete wants to have their career best races.
I can’t stop thinking of some of the famous “near misses” in the sport of track and field (a sport I love dearly and follow closely). The ying/yang emotions ever present for all to see in Kevin Sullivan (5th in the 1500m in 2000), Leah Pells (4th in the 1500m in 1996), Gary Reed (4th in the 800m in 2008), Steve Prefontaine (** ok, Pre’s was definitely all “yang” with his 4th place in the 5000m in 1972), Kenny Moore (one of my favorite authors - 4th in the Olympics in 1972 in the marathon) faces, and interviews after their race. They affected me deeply, but I just never understood fully what they were saying. To me, they were some of the best in the world, in the worlds most competitive sport (after soccer).
... to read the rest of this well written first hand account of an Olympic experience, click HERE
Published: Mar 09, 2010 - 12:54 PM
Articles: Riding Yukon Style Part II
It was the day we wished would never end...
I’m not one to toss around big statements like “best day of my life”, but by the time we sat down for dinner on our second day in the Yukon, it was already clear that the best day of the summer was close to being clinched – and more was yet to come.
The lead story in this adventure up north was the riding, of course, but like any trip that defines your summer – and this one did – good riding alone isn’t enough. What made our time in the Yukon so amazing and complete, was the fact that everything else measured up to the incredible riding. The people, our hosts, the food, the beer – even the espresso at the Midnight Roasters café (which shares space with the Icycle bike shop) was simply first class.
... NSMBe.Magazine
Published: Mar 09, 2010 - 12:38 PM
Articles: Armstrong on retirement, Contador and "the look"
American undecided on racing in 2011
During a wide-ranging and candid interview with Spanish daily El País, Lance Armstrong has spoken about his hopes for the Tour de France, riding into 2011 and, of course, Alberto Contador. There was nothing controversial in his comments about Spaniard.
Indeed, the most interesting sections of the interview focused on questions the seven-time Tour winner is seldom asked, such as how he thinks he’s viewed in the peloton.
... Cycling News
Published: Mar 09, 2010 - 12:15 PM
International News: Rabon wins Vuelta Murcia
Theo Bos wins final sprint stage.
Frantisek Rabon (HTC-Columbia) finished safely in the peloton on the final flat stage of the race to win the Tour of Murcia ahead of Denis Menchov and Bradley Wiggins (Team Sky).
Theo Bos (Cervelo TestTeam) won the final 121km stage to Murcia, beating Graeme Brown (Rabobank) and Daniel Schorn (Team NetApp).
"As we expected Rabobank set the tempo in the front but my teammates stayed around me providing perfect support," said Bos.
... CyclingBews
Published: Mar 07, 2010 - 01:57 PM
Event Results: Paris-Nice prologue: Lars Boom with winning opening salvo
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Lars Boom (Rabobank) blasted to victory in the eight kilometre prologue time trial at Paris-Nice on Sunday, surprising all the bigger-name favourites.
... Cycling News
Published: Mar 07, 2010 - 01:53 PM
Articles: The Italian Eroica race. Don’t they mean Erotica?
Winner of first Eroica?
We have to admit that each time we see the word Eroica, the first image we think of is not skinny guys racing titanium road bikes.
No, our head starts spinning with dozens of graphic images of a veritable peloton of naked young women riding around Tuscany on their bikes with me along as sexual guide and provocateur.
We’d spend the day in two wheeled bliss before arriving that evening at a beautiful 16th century monastery that had been converted into a four star hotel. After a delightful dinner spend regaling the bubbly girls with my exploits in the world of advertising selling cars, jarred salsa and dangerous ag chemicals, I’d collect their room keys, gather my BDSM goodies and savor the delicious conundrum of which girl to visit first.
... Twisted Spoke
Published: Mar 07, 2010 - 12:01 PM
International News: Wiggins third in Tour of Murcia time trial, third overall
Bradley Wiggins, Tour of Murcia 2010, stage 4
Bradley Wiggins looks set for his first podium finish in Sky colours after a third place in Saturday's decisive time trial of the Tour of Murcia saw the Briton move up to third overall.
Wiggins finished the flat 22 kilometre time trial in Alhama de Murcia 48 seconds slower than Czech Frantisek Rabon (HTC-Columbia), the winner of the same stage last year and who is now the new overall leader. Denis Menchov (Rabobank), victorious in the Giro in 2009 and the Vuelta in 2008 and 2005, was second.
... CyclingWeekly
Published: Mar 07, 2010 - 11:56 AM
Articles: Save The Track Bike
In these uncertain times, many of us find ourselves searching for meaning. For example, I have chosen to worship a Lobster God (beware of false prophets), to whom I pray for guidance, protection, and discounts. However, sometimes I also need a more worldly cause behind which to rally so I can delude myself into thinking that I'm changing society for the better.
Unfortunately, though, this can be hard. I once tried veganism, but after accidentally ingesting a fly during a ride I had to scrap the whole enterprise. My brief stint in the animal rights movement was also a disaster--all I'll say is, as much as I believe in equality of the species, opening a joint checking account with your cat will set you on the road to financial ruin. Finally, though, I think I've discovered the cause for me. I'm going to join the legions of people now fighting to "Save The Track Bike!"
... BikeSnob
Published: Mar 07, 2010 - 11:53 AM
Bike advocates express knee-jerk 'concerns' about cellphone ban
When I see a cyclist chatting on a cell phone, or better yet, texting while riding hands-free, one word springs to mind: Suicide.
But it's not hard to spot cyclists barreling down Valencia Street, phone in hand. And it's certainly not hard to spot automobile drivers using their phones, either, despite a state law banning the practice.
Palo Alto Senator Joe Simitian, who wrote that law, wants to double its fines and make it apply to cyclists.
... SFGate
Published: Mar 06, 2010 - 02:21 PM
Articles: Counting the Cost
It has been said often, to the point of being cliché that if anything is worth doing, it is worth doing well. Perhaps it is also worthy to consider it this way, when we take on a commitment, it merits doing with all your will and all the might that lies within. For the most part I believe we do this. For example, when we look at commitments to profession, we consider the obligations involved. When we look at having children and a family, we regard the time it will take and weigh within the balance its value. When we look at little things like what we eat, we take into account fine details. However, all too often and interestingly, this same truth does not necessarily hold true for cycling, something held so near and dear to us.
... RedKitePrayer
Published: Mar 06, 2010 - 02:17 PM
Articles: Rihs' remedy for the cycling blues - Part two
"From innocence to more sense": BMC Racing's tailored approach
At the time of Phonak's dissolution, Andy Rihs stated that he 'no longer believed in clean cycling' and wouldn't return to the highest echelon of the sport. In 2010 he's back in the big time, returning with the vigour and passion not seen since he celebrated with Floyd Landis on the Champs Élysées in July 2006.
His experience with the team was even the subject of a European Social Survey research project, conducted soon after Landis' positive test for synthetic testosterone. The questionnaire included the statement: "Generally speaking, would you say that most people can be trusted, or that you can’t be too careful in dealing with people?"
... Cycling News
Published: Mar 06, 2010 - 05:31 AM
Articles: Hugo’s Magic Pump. The greatest cycling movie you’ve never seen.
It’s the greatest biking movie you’ve never seen — not that there are many to begin with.
A cheesy Italian soft porn comedy from the 70’s called Hugo’s Magic Pump. Little is known about this under-appreciated classic and a deep dive into Google yields little in the way of information.
All we’ve uncovered is this tantalizing video box copy: ”Hugo is the winningest 6 day racer in Italy, beating everyone, including the Mafia’s ‘Fixed’ riders. To stop losing gambling monies, the Mafia decides to wear Hugo down by throwing beautiful women at him, hoping to reduce his endurance and stamina.”
Wow, that sounds like the one strategy Lance Armstrong hasn’t considered when he brainstorms ways to beat Alberto Contador. Is this a Spanish sequel — El Pistelero’s Magic Pump? The secret story of the Astana sex machine. Maybe … not.
... Twisted Spoke
Published: Mar 06, 2010 - 04:54 AM
Articles: Anti-doping chief Gripper leaves UCI
Anne Gripper, the head of the International Cycling Union's (UCI) Anti-Doping Department, will step down from her role on Friday. Francesco Rossi will take over and leave the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
Gripper has served at the UCI since 2006 and has overseen the creation of the Biological Passport. Her return home to Australia follows the death of her partner last year. She hopes to remain close to the sport.
"I decided I want to be back in Australia with family and friends. It's purely personal reasons," Gripper told Cyclingnews. "I need to do something a bit gentler on my soul for the time being.
... BikeRadar
Published: Mar 06, 2010 - 04:49 AM
Articles: Paracyclist Honoured with Lighting of Canadian Paralympic Torch Relay
Arnold Boldt honoured as the first Paralympic athlete to light the Paralympic Torch Relay in an official ceremony on Parliament Hill.
March 5, 2010 (Ottawa, ON) - Arnold Boldt received a great honour as he was the first Paralympic athlete to light the Paralympic Torch Relay in an official ceremony on Parliament Hill in front of an impressive panel of remarkable guests, including Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada.
Arnold Boldt received this great honour for his Paralympic achievements in long and high jump in the 70s and 80s. Boldt is known as one of the greatest Canadian Paralympians of all time and to benefit Paracycling, Boldt decided to compete at the first Paracycling Road and Track National Championships in 2009. Not only did he win a National Champion Title but he also made the National Time Standards and earn a spot on Canada’s Paracycling Team at the 2009 Paracycling Road World Championships, in Italy.
For his great performances and potential in the sport, Boldt has made the National Team ranking for 2010 and is currently training under National Para-cycling Coach, Eric Van den Eynde.
Published: Mar 06, 2010 - 04:46 AM
Articles: Rihs' remedy for the cycling blues
Part I: Rebirth of a cycling power broker after Phonak and Astana
Could it be third time lucky for BMC's Andy Rihs? The affable and enthusiastic owner of this Swiss bike company has endured heartbreaks during his time in the realm of professional cycling, and as another season rolls into action, he returns with a squad brimming with talent, built from the ground up.
The energetic 67-year-old has indeed constructed this latest team from the ashes of campaigns past and the subsequent lessons learned; his comments suggest that the episodes involving Phonak, Floyd Landis, Astana, Alexandre Vinokourov and Andrey Kashechkin have caused considerable heartbreak but two aspects stand out, however: his enthusiasm is infectious while his drive and ability to organise is unquestionable.
... CyclingNews
Published: Mar 05, 2010 - 05:02 AM
Articles: Ground Up Designs Flamethrower Bike
The Ground Up Designs flamethrower bike certainly attracted some attention at the 2010 NAHBS show, making people first play a guessing game as to what exactly it did, and then how it looked in action. Skip to the fun part—in action the flame pulses out of the nozzle with the press of a button, letting out a fairly sizeable cloud of heat. The small crowd that stood by was excited to say the least.
... Urban Velo
Published: Mar 05, 2010 - 04:58 AM
Articles: Race Across The Sky - A Review Of The Movie
I saw the movie Race Across The Sky this week at a screening at the Arlington Cinema & Draft House hosted by the Washington Area Bicyclist Association (WABA) and Bike Arlington. Spokes Etc., a local chain of bike shops, also needs to be recognized for contributing prizes to the raffle.
The film is a documentary on the Leadville 100 mountain bike race held annually in Leadville, Colorado. The film was made during the 2009 race. Lance Armstrong was a race participant for the second time that year. He first rode the race in 2008 when he began his comeback and he finished second that year. His attempt in 2009 took place just 3 weeks after he had finished the Tour De France.
... Bicyclespokesman
Published: Mar 05, 2010 - 04:55 AM
Articles: 2010 Manitou Dorado Pro Official Release
Last year Manitou released the updated version of the Dorado fork with carbon legs and hefty pricetag. For 2010 they’ve taken all of the same suspension technology and packaged it in a less expensive aluminum version called the Dorado Pro. Check inside for the full release information.
The Hayes Bicycle Group is pleased to announce the official release of the 2010 Manitou Dorado Pro.
... Sicklines
Published: Mar 05, 2010 - 04:52 AM
Articles: Drop Bars For Off Road: Why?
With 29 inch bicycles on the market from Salsa Cycles and Singular Cycles that have been designed specifically for use with drop bars for off roading, there have been a lot of questions flying about the internet. With all of the questions I see, I thought it might be a good thing to cover the subject here on Twenty Nine Inches.
This is in no way an unabridged version of drop bar knowledge for off road bikes, but hopefully these posts will clear up a few things in regards to this odd set up that seems to be gaining more fans these days. With that let’s take a look at the “why” of drop bars for off road use.
Published: Mar 05, 2010 - 04:49 AM
Articles: Nutrition: Know your fats
Fat is a divisive issue, and our current attitude to dietary fat is very much linked to medical and media opinion, which relegates all fat to the ‘bad for you’ list – regardless of where it comes from or how much of it you consume.
That’s a very simplistic and unhelpful view, though. Fat is a necessary part of our diet and is an essential part, in the form of lipids, of every single cell in your body – each one is contained by a membrane that’s made of proteins and lipids. So, without fat, your cells (and you) would just be a puddle of chemicals on the floor.
... BikeRadar
Published: Mar 04, 2010 - 04:14 PM
Articles: Paris Hilton to ride Paris-Roubaix. Rumor or tantalizing fact?
Where's the velodrome, baby?
Maybe it’s just wishful thinking on our part. Still, what was Paris Hilton doing buying an Electra cruiser bike? Sounds like training time to Twisted Spoke.
People often forget that deep down, rich, vapid, superficial stars know they lack substance. On occasion that knowledge pushes them to do something meaningful like adopt a cambodian refugee or throw themselves between a whale and a Japanese hunting crew or walk thru the slums of Mombai handing out chocolate cupcakes to the poor.
Published: Mar 04, 2010 - 04:09 PM
Articles: Olympic Hangover
Please don't go
To talk of anything else today would be ludicrous. I call North Vancouver home and for the past 17 days there has been nothing else in B.C. besides the Olympic Winter Games. We've been glued to the tv, out in the streets en masse and 25,000 of us have been volunteering for Vanoc. We've been completely and utterly captivated by this wee sporting event.
Early on we were taking a beating - mostly in the British press - for the weather, the failed fourth caldron in B.C. Place and our controversial 'Own The Podium' initiative. Some of the criticism was well deserved while some of it was merely grumbling by those who make their living finding fault where there is none.
... NSMBe.Magazine
Published: Mar 03, 2010 - 01:10 AM
Articles: Cycling Plus reveal 2010 Bike Of The Year
When Cycling Plus magazine asked manufacturers to send them their standout models in the highly competitive £1,500-£2,500 price range for their Bike Of The Year test, they had no idea the standard would be so high.
It made whittling down the initial shortlist of 50 road bikes to just five contenders extremely difficult, but after weeks of testing and thousands of miles of riding, the results are now in.
... BikeRadar
Published: Mar 03, 2010 - 01:03 AM
Articles: Fabien Barel International, Urge Nepal
Every year the Fabien Barel International invites a handful of the world’s best riders to rustic locations around the world to race one another across uncharted terrain. The goal is to raise funds for the region’s humanitarian needs.
This year’s event, Urge Nepal, is on now in the Himalayan Mountains.
The idea was hatched three years ago by the former downhill world champ, Barel and Fred Glo and was first run last year in Kenya. That event was billed, Urge Kenya. Ten riders participated and each brought a donation to race.
... BikeRadar
Published: Mar 03, 2010 - 01:00 AM
Articles: Training: In a spin
If you feel uneasy about taking to the roads on dark nights to put the miles in, why not train indoors? Nicola Smith shows how you can win with spin.
How it all started
When American cyclist Johnny Goldberg was knocked off his bike one night while training for the 3,000-mile Race Across America, he decided to recreate the training conditions indoors. Goldberg developed a training programme he called Spinning, designed an indoor bike based on his road bike and took it to gyms around the world.
While Spinning is Goldberg’s trademark – only accurately used for classes run by instructors who have attended the official Johnny G Spinning instructor training – indoor cycling classes have taken off in gyms across the world, and it can offer a great winter alternative to road training.
... BikeRadar
Published: Mar 02, 2010 - 12:54 PM
Articles: I want to go ...
Published: Mar 02, 2010 - 12:49 PM
Articles: French agents disguised as dancers nearly arrest Landis in Nevada.
Oh-la-la-la-la. This was close, scary close. Floyd Landis probably thought he was safe from the clutches of the French Police out to serve his international arrest warrant. The one they slapped him with for hacking the computer at the French doping lab Chatenay-Malabry laboratory back in November 2006.
The mad Mennonite made the dangerous assumption that staying on home soil and not renewing his passport was precaution enough. So it must have been a shock for Landis to discover the French had sent two agents to Lake Mead, Nevada to bring back the disgraced Tour winner by force.
... Twisted Spoke
Published: Mar 02, 2010 - 10:23 AM
Articles: Rollin thrives in bad weather in Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne
Canadian impervious to Belgian storms
Dominque Rollin is fast becoming somewhat of an expert in racing in poor conditions and he put those skills to the test in a storm affected edition of Kuurne-Bruxelles-Kuurne on Sunday.
The race was won by surprise package Bobbie Traksel who broke clear early on in the race and won a sprint battle between his two breakaway companions, Rick Flens (Rabobank) and Ian Stannard (Sky).
Behind the three leaders Rollin’s Cervelo TestTeam was the most aggressive team. First they sent Thor Hushovd and Jeremy Hunt up the road and in pursuit of Traksel’s group before Rollin launched his attack over the remnants on the peloton, trying to bridge across to his two teammates and Hayden Roulston (HTC-Columbia).
... Cycling News
Published: Mar 02, 2010 - 10:20 AM
Articles: Tom Danielson: The Human Lottery Ticket
Can Garmin-Transitions' enigma deliver before time runs out?
"He's a lottery ticket. A one-in-a-million chance that could turn you into a millionaire but if don't buy the ticket you don't have a shot, right?" asks Jonathan Vaughters.
I respond with a nod and a reassuring smile. We've just had dinner in Calpe, Spain and the topic of discussion is the American cyclist Tom Danielson. The wine has been flowing, the company excellent and I can't remember how we've ended up talking about Tom Danielson.
... Cycling News
Published: Mar 02, 2010 - 10:13 AM
