Manly Dam circuits have been fun most mornings over the last week. A fast couple of laps or a casual couple of hours on the bike, finding fast lines, bombing the dh sections and tackling tech rock climbs. Next time I am in the area I will explore Oxford Falls, from what I hear it can be tougher than the dam. Fun!
As for this week, exploring the mid-north coast. Looking at tracks near Kempsey, if the weather eases from this rain. Full report of Kempsey to come.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Holidays?
A rest from work can mean more time on the bike. Watch out for me training around the Hawksbury, Manly Dam or on the mid north coast.
Results this year have included, 1st at Round 1 of the Rocky Trail MTB Grand Prix, 2nd in the Elite SCUM XC Series, 3rd in Open Mens at the SCUM 30/60 Enduro, 4th in the A Grade Men WSMTB/MWMTB XC Series, 4th in A Grade at the ADCC MTB Enduro Championship, 4th in Solo Men at the Ay-up Dusk to Dawn QLD and again Qualified for 24hr Solo World Championships with a good result from the Australian 24hr Solo MTB Championship.
Thanks to Tony from Energy Supplements Australia for his on going support with the Natural Energy of FRS. Also to Shane from Bikes at the Basin for continuing to support my sweet rides. And Duncan of DIY MTB who helps out mostly with suspension, check out their 2010 X-Fusion forks.
Be safe and catch ya next year!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
SCUM Annual 30/60km Enduro
This was the third time I have competed in the various versions of SCUM's end of year 30/60km fun ride. This year the track designer was offering a massive 30km loop consisting of sections from popular the Butterfly and Superbowl single tracks. The 30km loop was to also include open fire trail sections, power-line climbs and old moto single tracks. There was promise of a free BBQ too.It was a mixed race but the highlights for me included a great start on the one km or so of fire-trail heading into the first section of single track around the top five. The lead riders make the mistake of taking the beginners track giving me the lead through to the next section of fire-trail.
I finally figured the small block eights have had their day as over the first half of the lap I struggled to keep the rear end firmly planted though corners. In the dry dusty conditions the semi slick nature of the rear tyre just didn't suit. Time to try a different tread.
Over the first half of the lap I lost a heap of time to Dave from the Bike Shack and Kurt "I am Merida" but with some incident free and a little effort I made up the time. Riding with them for a few kilometers I felt good and took lead of the group. It was then (20-25km mark) when I made the error of the ride, I attempted to bunny-hop over a puddle with the landing to be on the dried mud section on the other side. This dried mud section turned out to be soft and deep. I touched down with the front wheel, burying it. All I remember is a rag-doll style deceleration into my handlebars and finding myself twisted around the bike in the dirt a couple of meters from the puddle. Ouch, it hurt, but nothing looked major, just blood from the right knee, left knee and elbow. I made my way back on the bike, slowly, in pursuit of Dave and Kurt. At the transition between the laps I caught them. We were caught by a following rider at this time as well, a friendly enduro rider from Canberra. They all stopped to refuel and grab a fresh bottle, I made clean bottle swaps and headed out for the second 30.
My second lap was some what a better one than the first, gaining here and there, then loosing a bit on the climbs. Dave turned the power on and was out of sight in minutes. Kurt was holding on strong but by the 45km mark had slipped back. We passed the lead single speed rider, he wanted to know which way was the fastest back to transition. We were near the back of the Nowra suburbs at this stage. Also out this way were the stragglers from the 30km, having fun in the sand and battling cramps. Heading back along the fire-trails our Canberra friend took a bad line around one of the designer water features incorporated into the loop. This gave me a gap in which to work on and I went for it, attempting to put as much time between us. Holding the gap to the finish, it was almost 3:15hrs for the 60km (closer to 70km said some). Placing third in Open Mens and fourth overall. Stiff and sore I feasted on the free watermelon and BBQ. It was again terrific work by the SCUM team to but on such a great event, online rego via MTBA, two computers on the day for rego, port-a-loo, BBQ and great atmosphere. Could these type of rides become more regular on the SCUM calendar in the future?
Thanks to FRS - Natural Energy, Bikes at the Basin and DIY MTB for their ongoing support. Have a festive period!
Rag bikes it
Thanks to a handy PR push through my workplace, my team for the Scott24 2009 “Raging Bull Racing”, end up having a story in the workplace newspaper months ago. In a news flash that came across my desk, just last week the same story found its way into the local rag. A quarter page including colour picture, page 17. It featured the same picture that heads this blog, Santa hat and all, incredible!
Monday, December 7, 2009
WSMTB Summer 4hr Series Round 1
Round 1 was a twilight race from 6pm held at Yarramundi. The word on the web was a change to the track with possibly sections in reverse. There was online rego through the new MTBA system, around 70 riders chose this option and on-the-day rego for those who didn't go the online option.
Yarramundi conditions, I rode some of the track on Friday, the track was dry and loose. There had been further work done to sections, while others had further exposed rocks through use of the track. While on the lap we did our own bit of work, removing black wattles. These trees had decided to break, crossing the track.
Things were ok off the start, the usual eight across with a ten meter sprint into single track, me in the second row. We congo'd our way around the first section of the track down the single track, to the rock roll-over then over the log. This is where the track changed with a cut-in to the right on to the bitumen section the lead back up to the transition area, before the car park we headed left skirting the cars then right onto single track again. Instead of crossing the fire-trail we headed left on it then right up to the power lines. Yes the track was a little switched around but generally similar to how I have ridden it before.
It was in the single track before Ben’s Bridge that Yarramundi had its way with my bike again. I collected another stick in the rear derailleur. It did bad things like bending the hanger, forcing the chain between the cassette and spokes, and breaking a spoke. This is where it jammed, behind a lug that is suppose to stop it. Pulling on either side of the chain wouldn’t remove it from this first lap nightmare. After many frustrating attempts to remove the chain I remembered the old trick of using a quick release handle as a lever. By this stage all the field had passed me and I wedged the handle between the cassette and hub, pulling the chain from the cassettes strangle hold. Manually straightening the bent hanger by eye, I twisted the broken spoke around another keeping it out of the way. Back on the bike I fine tuned the rear derailleur on the go using the barrel nut on the trigger.
I was at the back of the whole field and gave at least half a lap to the front runners. It was now a sprint to make up as much time during the daylight hours before I was forced into enduro night mode. After a fast first two laps I could taste salt but not the usual sweat taste, blood. I must have bitten my lip during one of the downhill sections. It seemed like all I was doing was overtaking people and it wasn’t till around the two hour mark the front runners had made up the half a lap and the first of the fast teams went past, followed closely by the solo front runner.
There was becoming more of a gap between myself and riders around my speed. Lights were on now and it was time to maintain the effort I had put in earlier in the afternoon. Just hope I had put enough in to make the time I needed. The trouble didn’t stop though, I had digestion issues with the power bar I needed to consume in the third hour, I only got two bites into the bar. It was very uncomfortable.
Finally the fourth hour passed and I finished. I was exhausted and had the need for the use of a port-a-loo. It could have been the number I picked up at rego “13”, also the position I managed to place in the category “13”. That was Round 1 of the 4hr series.
Thanks to FRS, Bikes at the Basin and DIY MTB for their ongoing support. Have a festive period!
Yarramundi conditions, I rode some of the track on Friday, the track was dry and loose. There had been further work done to sections, while others had further exposed rocks through use of the track. While on the lap we did our own bit of work, removing black wattles. These trees had decided to break, crossing the track.
Things were ok off the start, the usual eight across with a ten meter sprint into single track, me in the second row. We congo'd our way around the first section of the track down the single track, to the rock roll-over then over the log. This is where the track changed with a cut-in to the right on to the bitumen section the lead back up to the transition area, before the car park we headed left skirting the cars then right onto single track again. Instead of crossing the fire-trail we headed left on it then right up to the power lines. Yes the track was a little switched around but generally similar to how I have ridden it before.
It was in the single track before Ben’s Bridge that Yarramundi had its way with my bike again. I collected another stick in the rear derailleur. It did bad things like bending the hanger, forcing the chain between the cassette and spokes, and breaking a spoke. This is where it jammed, behind a lug that is suppose to stop it. Pulling on either side of the chain wouldn’t remove it from this first lap nightmare. After many frustrating attempts to remove the chain I remembered the old trick of using a quick release handle as a lever. By this stage all the field had passed me and I wedged the handle between the cassette and hub, pulling the chain from the cassettes strangle hold. Manually straightening the bent hanger by eye, I twisted the broken spoke around another keeping it out of the way. Back on the bike I fine tuned the rear derailleur on the go using the barrel nut on the trigger.
I was at the back of the whole field and gave at least half a lap to the front runners. It was now a sprint to make up as much time during the daylight hours before I was forced into enduro night mode. After a fast first two laps I could taste salt but not the usual sweat taste, blood. I must have bitten my lip during one of the downhill sections. It seemed like all I was doing was overtaking people and it wasn’t till around the two hour mark the front runners had made up the half a lap and the first of the fast teams went past, followed closely by the solo front runner.
There was becoming more of a gap between myself and riders around my speed. Lights were on now and it was time to maintain the effort I had put in earlier in the afternoon. Just hope I had put enough in to make the time I needed. The trouble didn’t stop though, I had digestion issues with the power bar I needed to consume in the third hour, I only got two bites into the bar. It was very uncomfortable.
Finally the fourth hour passed and I finished. I was exhausted and had the need for the use of a port-a-loo. It could have been the number I picked up at rego “13”, also the position I managed to place in the category “13”. That was Round 1 of the 4hr series.
Thanks to FRS, Bikes at the Basin and DIY MTB for their ongoing support. Have a festive period!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy my “Ride for a Reason” has made its way into MTB culture with Pedal for Pierce at Stromlo this month. Featuring in a MTB mag and with a bit of reference on the web, this is a great opportunity to help out or just read about Muscular Dystrophy. Visit MDA for more information or here to read about personal struggles.
Last Week Warm Weather
On Friday I went for a ride to the coast. The weather was nice to start off with, warm but ok. It was a 70km one-way trip on mostly motorways, some sections I had to ride off the road due to the traffic which was hard work. As you come off the hill at Allambie the temperature dropped nicely, it was all downhill from here. The return trip was more eventful, turns out some of the motorways I had traveled on east could be negotiated by bike heading west. This forced me off the original route, on roads I didn’t know. I ended up near Parramatta, way off course, fatigued and slightly sun burnt from the forty degree day. Having ridden just as long in the westerly direction as the easterly but with well over an hour out from home I made up my mind to call it a day. A further three kilometers I passed Rosehill Race Course and found the closest westerly heading train station. It ended up being 50km on the bike before I reached the train. Probably one of the best $5 I had spent on a very hot day, the train ride.
Saturday I rode with the Tri bunch again. This week they did hills again which I like. After Fridays big day on the bike I took it easy, keeping up with the middle of the group. It was a fairly nice 50km morning and good to get a ride while not in the heat of the day.
This week Sunday was a busy day, SCUM had the last of their XC Series. Having not raced in a couple of weeks I chose to wake up early and head down the coast of some fun. The track would be Coondoo, a staple diet for many Nowra based MTBers. Coondoo has also been the host track for the Merida X-Fusion 6hr this year and previous 8hr Series. Recently some of the track had been burnt out, the diligent crew at SCUM refurbished many parts of the track and creating lines around new features. The conditions of the track were dry, dusty and often sandy. Even with warm weather predicted the turnout of racers for the last round was massive, one hundred riders registered.
A combined start of categories created the a hectic sprint of the line. I went into the single track about tenth behind my elite competitors, mixed in with the Expert riders. The first lap is a warm-up for me and an ideal time to test the conditions. Sliding out on the fine loose dust through corners I found the edge between laying in the dust and taking it easy.
Yes I had dirt in my gloves, I also broke the inside attachment of the upper strap on my left shoe from the first lap. Northwave's top of the line MTB shoe has a highly adjustable upper strap. Another rider I know that uses NW's Carbon Raptor has had the top strap inside attachment stitched permanently to the shoe. It has been a while since I have broken the inside adjuster and usually it is on the right foot. The shoes continue to be stiff and comfortable cycling shoes, I have quite a few spare inside attachment clips through Bikes at the Basin.
On the main fire-trail section, first lap I made an effort to make up time, passing many riders from the lower grades. It was lap two to four where I made up all my time to the other riders in Elite field. Catching Shane Wood from Bikes at the Basin on lap four ment I was close to the front, with possibly Paul Traynor the only rider ahead of me.
Even on the final lap, lap five, I still felt strong. I would have been happy to go out for at least another two laps as I still had energy to burn. A good breakfast, FRS before the ride and some carbs/ electrolyte during the ride makes for simple XC racing. I have been keeping a close eye on my food intake, ensuring I get enough. Over the last month or so I have been able to ride lots and make a small gain in weight.
Placing two minutes down per lap to Paul wasn’t so bad and I did manage to come second over the line in the Elite category in SCUM‘s final XC round for the year. It was a fun ride at Coondoo, visit the track this holiday period, there is some great riding.
Saturday I rode with the Tri bunch again. This week they did hills again which I like. After Fridays big day on the bike I took it easy, keeping up with the middle of the group. It was a fairly nice 50km morning and good to get a ride while not in the heat of the day.
This week Sunday was a busy day, SCUM had the last of their XC Series. Having not raced in a couple of weeks I chose to wake up early and head down the coast of some fun. The track would be Coondoo, a staple diet for many Nowra based MTBers. Coondoo has also been the host track for the Merida X-Fusion 6hr this year and previous 8hr Series. Recently some of the track had been burnt out, the diligent crew at SCUM refurbished many parts of the track and creating lines around new features. The conditions of the track were dry, dusty and often sandy. Even with warm weather predicted the turnout of racers for the last round was massive, one hundred riders registered.
A combined start of categories created the a hectic sprint of the line. I went into the single track about tenth behind my elite competitors, mixed in with the Expert riders. The first lap is a warm-up for me and an ideal time to test the conditions. Sliding out on the fine loose dust through corners I found the edge between laying in the dust and taking it easy.
Yes I had dirt in my gloves, I also broke the inside attachment of the upper strap on my left shoe from the first lap. Northwave's top of the line MTB shoe has a highly adjustable upper strap. Another rider I know that uses NW's Carbon Raptor has had the top strap inside attachment stitched permanently to the shoe. It has been a while since I have broken the inside adjuster and usually it is on the right foot. The shoes continue to be stiff and comfortable cycling shoes, I have quite a few spare inside attachment clips through Bikes at the Basin.
On the main fire-trail section, first lap I made an effort to make up time, passing many riders from the lower grades. It was lap two to four where I made up all my time to the other riders in Elite field. Catching Shane Wood from Bikes at the Basin on lap four ment I was close to the front, with possibly Paul Traynor the only rider ahead of me.
Even on the final lap, lap five, I still felt strong. I would have been happy to go out for at least another two laps as I still had energy to burn. A good breakfast, FRS before the ride and some carbs/ electrolyte during the ride makes for simple XC racing. I have been keeping a close eye on my food intake, ensuring I get enough. Over the last month or so I have been able to ride lots and make a small gain in weight.
Placing two minutes down per lap to Paul wasn’t so bad and I did manage to come second over the line in the Elite category in SCUM‘s final XC round for the year. It was a fun ride at Coondoo, visit the track this holiday period, there is some great riding.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Forced Recovery Week
Last week was a recovery week. It included minimal commuting throughout the week. The forced part of the week was a change in work routine. This put the body out of balance, working when your are normally asleep is something I only like to do on the bike. This ment I was fresh for the weekend.
Saturday was close to two hours of fast paced riding with plenty of pace changes and hilly terrain. The Tri Club guys said they were kept honest, but they do drop the pace for a climb. They have plenty of pace off the hills in a small bunch and down on their TT bars.
Sunday was a big bunch ride with the Penrith crew. It was at a moderate pace and tucked in the bunch easy to scoot along with them. Along the M4 I found myself starting to bob in the seat, looking down, it was a rear flat. Cycling out of the bunch I hung onto the back till it was running on the rim in hope to make it to the next exit. Swapping out the tube I rode home via Penrith in hope to pick up another rider but it was a solo effort. It was a three hour morning.
Around midday on Sunday is SBS’s usual cycling feature, this time it was the recent Croc Trophy. The ADCC’s Shane Taylor made many an appearance and you can really see the grueling conditions the riders went through. Read my interview with Shane below, leave a comment or question for Shane, or visit Shane’s Blog through the Freaks on a Bike link.
Solo 24 is on the cards, I have entered the Worlds 2010. For a quick review of where this all started, check the wheels below. Scott 24 2007, 6th Solo result, 05NRS3, 140mm fork, juicy7, X9, american classic, simple.
Saturday was close to two hours of fast paced riding with plenty of pace changes and hilly terrain. The Tri Club guys said they were kept honest, but they do drop the pace for a climb. They have plenty of pace off the hills in a small bunch and down on their TT bars.
Sunday was a big bunch ride with the Penrith crew. It was at a moderate pace and tucked in the bunch easy to scoot along with them. Along the M4 I found myself starting to bob in the seat, looking down, it was a rear flat. Cycling out of the bunch I hung onto the back till it was running on the rim in hope to make it to the next exit. Swapping out the tube I rode home via Penrith in hope to pick up another rider but it was a solo effort. It was a three hour morning.
Around midday on Sunday is SBS’s usual cycling feature, this time it was the recent Croc Trophy. The ADCC’s Shane Taylor made many an appearance and you can really see the grueling conditions the riders went through. Read my interview with Shane below, leave a comment or question for Shane, or visit Shane’s Blog through the Freaks on a Bike link.
Solo 24 is on the cards, I have entered the Worlds 2010. For a quick review of where this all started, check the wheels below. Scott 24 2007, 6th Solo result, 05NRS3, 140mm fork, juicy7, X9, american classic, simple.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Base Training
Three hours on Thursday with a visit to Castle Hill.
Three hours on Friday via the back of Blacktown.
One hour and a half with the Tri Club on Saturday, medium speed with one long high speed sprint mid ride.
Two hours on Sunday, mixed speeds, riding from the city via North Parramatta.
With the GT out for a week, I returned my X-Fusion Velvet fork to Duncan from DIY MTB for a checkup. The Velvet has been on my racing bikes the GT and Canaan on since Easter and Duncan commented that it is in great nick. A complementary change of oil and the fork has been refitted to the GT to race again.
One of the issues with the last race was the damaged jockey wheels. A new set of Enduro Jockey Wheels have been fitted to GT. The jockey wheels house some of the best bearings Enduro create, I just have to ensure the rest of the bike is as friction free.
Was reminded yesterday about how nice the feeling is to suck in a bug or two during a night ride. Cough, swallow, cough-cough, nope he went down.
Three hours on Friday via the back of Blacktown.
One hour and a half with the Tri Club on Saturday, medium speed with one long high speed sprint mid ride.
Two hours on Sunday, mixed speeds, riding from the city via North Parramatta.
With the GT out for a week, I returned my X-Fusion Velvet fork to Duncan from DIY MTB for a checkup. The Velvet has been on my racing bikes the GT and Canaan on since Easter and Duncan commented that it is in great nick. A complementary change of oil and the fork has been refitted to the GT to race again.
One of the issues with the last race was the damaged jockey wheels. A new set of Enduro Jockey Wheels have been fitted to GT. The jockey wheels house some of the best bearings Enduro create, I just have to ensure the rest of the bike is as friction free.
Was reminded yesterday about how nice the feeling is to suck in a bug or two during a night ride. Cough, swallow, cough-cough, nope he went down.
Shane Taylor Croc Trophy 2009 Elite Competitor - The Definitive Interview.
On completion of the Scott24 and placing fourth in solo for the second year running Shane traveled to North QLD for the stage race commonly referred to as the Croc. Months and months earlier Shane won the entry into the Croc through an online popularity poll run by Rocky Trail. I caught up with him a week after completing the Croc, this is his story.
Shane what were some of the highs & lows of this grueling event?
Actually to be honest the race start was a bit of a low. Crowding around at the start line I was feeling very isolated given that 90% of the competitors were conversing in foreign languages and that I had no idea about what to expect for the race. In hindsight I took that first day a little too easy and should have made up a whole lot more time but I just wanted to make sure I could get through the 10 days at that point. The stick in the derailleur incident was the other major low of the race as I was just starting to dream of top 10 finishes and good overall results when I was suddenly faced with a potentially race ending incident. A good example of how the Croc bashes you around mentally as much as physically.
Lots and lots of highs though, one of which I'll get to later, but from purely a riding perspective Bart Brentjens' ride in stage 5 was one of the most impressive displays of cycling I have been privileged to witness. The stage was a 100km road smash. 50kms out to the depot, turn around and the same 50kms back to the finish on a relatively flat road. I was in the second group motoring along at about 40-45kph when we passed Bart repairing a puncture on the side of the road 20kms in. I was taking my turn at the front at that point when one of the other Aussies in the group offered the following "Tails mate, just hold up a bit because he's going to come back and when he does he's going to be going supersonic". The media vehicle came past a minute or so later and John hung out the window and said "Bart's going to catch you guys in a minute.....and he's moving pretty quick". Sure enough, moments later a red flash came streaking past on our right as Bart, head down bum up, blew us all away. A few guys tried in vain to jump onto his wheel and nearly tore themselves in half in the process. Once he had disappeared in a cloud of dust we settled back down in a rhythm and by the time the lead group passed us coming back the other way just prior to the halfway turnaround Bart was back in front again pacing the group. He then won the stage in a sprint finish as if to prove a point. Simply Incredible.
I see there were teams entered in the event and bunch riding was fairly common - it sounds like a road race ?
Actually this race had far more in common with your average road race than any MTB race I've ever done. Partly this is because apparently that's how the Euro's do it and partly because it is required that there be vehicular access to all areas of the course in case of emergencies and for media access. Therefore all parts of the track were at least able to be driven by 4WD and a lot of it was literally road commuting (albeit on unsealed roads with corrugations as big as your head often for stretches of 20kms or more). Teamwork was not only encouraged but, I would say, necessary if you wanted to win the teams category. Even though I was not in an official Team I still found myself in situations where it was beneficial to work as one with other riders so as to share the workload into the headwind etc. I would think about 80% of the competitors were mainly roadies with only a passing interest in MTBing as we know it here is Aus.
Just think how you would be placed if there had a dedicated team ready to pace you back to the lead bunch after dramas on the roads. Has there been much interest from your supporters? The wheels are already in motion for an Australian Defence Cycling Club (ADCC) team at the Croc next year. The event organiser is keen for more Australian involvement and Martin from Rocky Trail Entertainment is keen to help out as much as he can as well. Still very preliminary at this stage and if anyone knows of a company who would want to lend some support then I'd be more than interested in talking to them. Word on the street is that Tom Boonen is keen to come out here and have a crack in the next few years and Adam Hansen is itching to come back and have another go too. I think this event is going to start getting some really extensive media coverage.
Shane you had a couple of mechanicals during the event, I heard you broke a derailleur hanger, were you carrying a spare?
Yes it was the hanger and yes I did. Unfortunately, it was not the correct hangar for the Marathon. Thankfully one of the passing riders, who just happened to have been a pro rider for Liquigas in a past life, had learnt some tricks of the trade and helped me out. The derailleur bolted onto the new hanger and then while I held the whole ensemble in place, he jammed it all together with the quick release. Not pretty but it lasted the remaining 30kms of the stage till the mechanics could work their magic. Ended up doing the rest of the race with a Cinelli road hanger that was more flexible than your average politician but unlike said polly, got the job done! The stick that smashed into my derailleur also bent the cage and damaged a couple of spokes. Could have been a lot worse really and compliments to Shimano for making tough as wheels that held up despite the damage. Only minor truing was required after each stage.
Something you must run on your bike? Bar ends, even my XC hardtail. Always have and always will. I prefer the shorter (lighter) ones personally rather than the massive cowhorn ones but I find that I use them a lot both for climbing assistance and simply to provide an alternate hand position when you're riding for 24hrs. I used those short PRO bar ends in conjunction with ESI chunky grips and didn't have a single hand complaint over the entire race. I am looking quite seriously at the Ergon grips with the integrated bar ends too. If they're good enough for Julien Absalon and Christophe Sauser (self confirmed obsessive weight weenie) then they are good enough for me.
Alot of stories have come out of the Croc Trophy, I read about the ultimate Croc battler of 2009, Australia’s Chris Neal, that he was awarded the race’s final accolade yesterday, crossing the finish line ahead of the peloton on the final stage. Care to share a few more? That was only one of the many fantastic stories to come out of this race. The stage from Laura to Cooktown included the brutal stretch of corrugations, the final 30kms, while on tarmac, were into a headwind that could peel the lips off your face and as a final kicker, the last 2kms were up a 30% gradient that finished with a stair climb. To top it off the temperature reached well above 40 degrees and by that stage most of us were just happy to make it to the end alive. A few of the Aussie guys at the back of the pack had been doing it pretty tough over the last few days but had been helping to patch up those who needed medical assistance during the first week. A Slovenian rider by the name of Matej Mugerli, the former Liquigas Pro who had helped me and whose race had been abandoned when he had a massive stack on day one that required a visit to hospital, finished the stage, turned his bike around and rode back to meet that group. He then paced them all the way back into town acting as their Domestique for the day. He spent about 4hrs more than he needed to out in the baking sun to help these guys out and for my mind is one of the true champions of the race.
This was certainly in stark contrast to one of the other riders who had seemingly made it his mission to piss off as many people as possible doing such things as letting someone else do all the work at the front of the group before stealing the line honors and grabbing other people's drink bottles at checkpoints. Pretty disappointing and although this particular gent is an extremely accomplished cyclist (as in has won the Race Across America Solo 5 times) it was the total opposite to Bart Brentjens who is not only an incredible rider but also an absolute gentleman. I hope he comes back next year and smashes it up.
The attached photo was also one of Shane’s race lows. At that point he had just been dropped by the lead bunch because the corrugations had just started, the temperature was starting to soar and he was facing 50kms of sandy rough riding on his own. Hitting a massive sandy patch the front wheel just washed out from under him. Nothing else to do but drag yourself up walk out the worst of the sand and then get back on.
Shane what were some of the highs & lows of this grueling event?
Actually to be honest the race start was a bit of a low. Crowding around at the start line I was feeling very isolated given that 90% of the competitors were conversing in foreign languages and that I had no idea about what to expect for the race. In hindsight I took that first day a little too easy and should have made up a whole lot more time but I just wanted to make sure I could get through the 10 days at that point. The stick in the derailleur incident was the other major low of the race as I was just starting to dream of top 10 finishes and good overall results when I was suddenly faced with a potentially race ending incident. A good example of how the Croc bashes you around mentally as much as physically.
Lots and lots of highs though, one of which I'll get to later, but from purely a riding perspective Bart Brentjens' ride in stage 5 was one of the most impressive displays of cycling I have been privileged to witness. The stage was a 100km road smash. 50kms out to the depot, turn around and the same 50kms back to the finish on a relatively flat road. I was in the second group motoring along at about 40-45kph when we passed Bart repairing a puncture on the side of the road 20kms in. I was taking my turn at the front at that point when one of the other Aussies in the group offered the following "Tails mate, just hold up a bit because he's going to come back and when he does he's going to be going supersonic". The media vehicle came past a minute or so later and John hung out the window and said "Bart's going to catch you guys in a minute.....and he's moving pretty quick". Sure enough, moments later a red flash came streaking past on our right as Bart, head down bum up, blew us all away. A few guys tried in vain to jump onto his wheel and nearly tore themselves in half in the process. Once he had disappeared in a cloud of dust we settled back down in a rhythm and by the time the lead group passed us coming back the other way just prior to the halfway turnaround Bart was back in front again pacing the group. He then won the stage in a sprint finish as if to prove a point. Simply Incredible.
I see there were teams entered in the event and bunch riding was fairly common - it sounds like a road race ?
Actually this race had far more in common with your average road race than any MTB race I've ever done. Partly this is because apparently that's how the Euro's do it and partly because it is required that there be vehicular access to all areas of the course in case of emergencies and for media access. Therefore all parts of the track were at least able to be driven by 4WD and a lot of it was literally road commuting (albeit on unsealed roads with corrugations as big as your head often for stretches of 20kms or more). Teamwork was not only encouraged but, I would say, necessary if you wanted to win the teams category. Even though I was not in an official Team I still found myself in situations where it was beneficial to work as one with other riders so as to share the workload into the headwind etc. I would think about 80% of the competitors were mainly roadies with only a passing interest in MTBing as we know it here is Aus.
Just think how you would be placed if there had a dedicated team ready to pace you back to the lead bunch after dramas on the roads. Has there been much interest from your supporters? The wheels are already in motion for an Australian Defence Cycling Club (ADCC) team at the Croc next year. The event organiser is keen for more Australian involvement and Martin from Rocky Trail Entertainment is keen to help out as much as he can as well. Still very preliminary at this stage and if anyone knows of a company who would want to lend some support then I'd be more than interested in talking to them. Word on the street is that Tom Boonen is keen to come out here and have a crack in the next few years and Adam Hansen is itching to come back and have another go too. I think this event is going to start getting some really extensive media coverage.
Shane you had a couple of mechanicals during the event, I heard you broke a derailleur hanger, were you carrying a spare?
Yes it was the hanger and yes I did. Unfortunately, it was not the correct hangar for the Marathon. Thankfully one of the passing riders, who just happened to have been a pro rider for Liquigas in a past life, had learnt some tricks of the trade and helped me out. The derailleur bolted onto the new hanger and then while I held the whole ensemble in place, he jammed it all together with the quick release. Not pretty but it lasted the remaining 30kms of the stage till the mechanics could work their magic. Ended up doing the rest of the race with a Cinelli road hanger that was more flexible than your average politician but unlike said polly, got the job done! The stick that smashed into my derailleur also bent the cage and damaged a couple of spokes. Could have been a lot worse really and compliments to Shimano for making tough as wheels that held up despite the damage. Only minor truing was required after each stage.
Something you must run on your bike? Bar ends, even my XC hardtail. Always have and always will. I prefer the shorter (lighter) ones personally rather than the massive cowhorn ones but I find that I use them a lot both for climbing assistance and simply to provide an alternate hand position when you're riding for 24hrs. I used those short PRO bar ends in conjunction with ESI chunky grips and didn't have a single hand complaint over the entire race. I am looking quite seriously at the Ergon grips with the integrated bar ends too. If they're good enough for Julien Absalon and Christophe Sauser (self confirmed obsessive weight weenie) then they are good enough for me.
Alot of stories have come out of the Croc Trophy, I read about the ultimate Croc battler of 2009, Australia’s Chris Neal, that he was awarded the race’s final accolade yesterday, crossing the finish line ahead of the peloton on the final stage. Care to share a few more? That was only one of the many fantastic stories to come out of this race. The stage from Laura to Cooktown included the brutal stretch of corrugations, the final 30kms, while on tarmac, were into a headwind that could peel the lips off your face and as a final kicker, the last 2kms were up a 30% gradient that finished with a stair climb. To top it off the temperature reached well above 40 degrees and by that stage most of us were just happy to make it to the end alive. A few of the Aussie guys at the back of the pack had been doing it pretty tough over the last few days but had been helping to patch up those who needed medical assistance during the first week. A Slovenian rider by the name of Matej Mugerli, the former Liquigas Pro who had helped me and whose race had been abandoned when he had a massive stack on day one that required a visit to hospital, finished the stage, turned his bike around and rode back to meet that group. He then paced them all the way back into town acting as their Domestique for the day. He spent about 4hrs more than he needed to out in the baking sun to help these guys out and for my mind is one of the true champions of the race.
This was certainly in stark contrast to one of the other riders who had seemingly made it his mission to piss off as many people as possible doing such things as letting someone else do all the work at the front of the group before stealing the line honors and grabbing other people's drink bottles at checkpoints. Pretty disappointing and although this particular gent is an extremely accomplished cyclist (as in has won the Race Across America Solo 5 times) it was the total opposite to Bart Brentjens who is not only an incredible rider but also an absolute gentleman. I hope he comes back next year and smashes it up.
The attached photo was also one of Shane’s race lows. At that point he had just been dropped by the lead bunch because the corrugations had just started, the temperature was starting to soar and he was facing 50kms of sandy rough riding on his own. Hitting a massive sandy patch the front wheel just washed out from under him. Nothing else to do but drag yourself up walk out the worst of the sand and then get back on.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
All-sorts
Fun can be found all over the place. Recently I have visited a highly used BMX track and watched in admiration how they flew around the track. It spurred me to discover my local BMX track. After a small amount of searching and some local information, I had an area of high possibility to visit. I discovered it was only fifteen minutes ride from work and close to many cycle-ways.
The BMX track seems to have well built corners and has a loose gravel over the top. The track could be a little small for a MTB but it makes you work hard and I would hate to come off the bike while riding this track as the gravel would tear you to shreds. Spending almost an hour pumping laps out has me sore and tired. But wait there is more.
Beside the BMX track is a small sausage shaped pump track. After a few laps I had it worked, even managing over twenty laps without peddling. This exploring was done on my commuter, 1.5” tyres and all. Over the weekend I rode out to the track, spending close to an hour on track. From there I made my way back on the road, latching onto a small group of roadies to spin the legs over. These guys did a u-turn before the hills and I went up solo. Plenty of fun riding to be done.
Keep an eye out for my chat with one of the guys who recently completed the Croc Trophy.
The BMX track seems to have well built corners and has a loose gravel over the top. The track could be a little small for a MTB but it makes you work hard and I would hate to come off the bike while riding this track as the gravel would tear you to shreds. Spending almost an hour pumping laps out has me sore and tired. But wait there is more.
Beside the BMX track is a small sausage shaped pump track. After a few laps I had it worked, even managing over twenty laps without peddling. This exploring was done on my commuter, 1.5” tyres and all. Over the weekend I rode out to the track, spending close to an hour on track. From there I made my way back on the road, latching onto a small group of roadies to spin the legs over. These guys did a u-turn before the hills and I went up solo. Plenty of fun riding to be done.
Keep an eye out for my chat with one of the guys who recently completed the Croc Trophy.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Luck runs out
Lining up with some new faces in A grade with plenty of lycra and all riding light hard-tails. the weather was stuffy and warm, it didn't take long to raise a sweat during a short warm-up. predictions were of rain later in the day, I hoped it would hold off till after the race. launching off the line in the usual sprinters fashion we headed down the trail in road train style. over the course of the first lap I found track conditions at Yarramundi to be dry and fast. just not fast enough as the pack rode away over the course of the first few laps. It was on the second lap that my mechanical luck finally ran out. Turns out it has been a very, very long time since a good mechanical put me on the side of the track. So National Parks had been out with the slasher and sorts trimming here and there, putting a variety of sticks over sections of the track. It could have been one of these or just a random black wattle that jumped out from the track to catch it's self in my rear derailleur. Many times before I have caught the stick here, pulling up and removing the offending piece of timber. This time the little blighter ate half my jockey wheels on its way through, strike one. Getting caught on a spoke the lumber continued it's destructive path, with the causality being the derailleur hanger. Two. It looked like a mess of twisted shiny metal, black plastic jockey wheel teeth wrapped around some dark wood, classic MTB Deco Pop art. After flipping the bike over and manually twisting the hanger back to a much more straight stance, I gave the pedals a quick rotate to make sure things worked, just. The derailleur had a bit of a limp over the half cogs but worked best on the smaller gears of cassette. I jumped back on the bike and completed the lap without further mishaps. Out on lap three it was best to drop to the granny for the power-line climbs and wrestle the bike single speed style in the middle ring through the undulations. It was lap four of five when the next incident happened, flying down a technical decent when, phf-shhhhhhh. Three, it was a punctured front tyre and tube, just a quarter of the way through the lap, and instantly the tyre was flat. My enthusiasm deflated just as fast as my front tyre, I don’t consider DNF part of my racing and yes, three strikes and it was on the for front of my mind. I shamefully trekked my bike back to the start/finish, this was the first time my luck had run out.
On the upside while commuting home on Monday, trialing a new 50-60 minute route, I came across a nice tool that had taken a small beating on the road. Turns out probably a hundred dollar item and the beating was only minor. The new route will also be good for steady spinning on flat terrain.
On the upside while commuting home on Monday, trialing a new 50-60 minute route, I came across a nice tool that had taken a small beating on the road. Turns out probably a hundred dollar item and the beating was only minor. The new route will also be good for steady spinning on flat terrain.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Ground Effect - Juggernauts
With words to describe these shorts like "Super-sized" and "long legs" I was very interested to try them out. Grabbing myself a couple of pairs I have been wearing these shorts all over the place. From commuting to and from work to training with lycra clad bandits, or racing XC.
These shorts fitted well with a breathable detachable mesh chamois liner. The chamois is Ground Effects anatomically shaped synthetic foam very similar to their seamless foam used in their lycra. The outer gave that slightly baggy look and is hard wearing, standing up to even my biggest off. The outer features lower leg zips and handy mesh zip-up pockets for when the heat is on. The crutch of the outer is well gusseted to give plenty of room when moving around the saddle.
Sadly the shorts didn’t reach my knees as promised and the super size bubble was burst. Juggernauts should live up to length expectations for most bar my super tall friends. These are well priced and solidly built shorts that hang nicely loose amongst the baggy brigade.
Read more reviews here
These shorts fitted well with a breathable detachable mesh chamois liner. The chamois is Ground Effects anatomically shaped synthetic foam very similar to their seamless foam used in their lycra. The outer gave that slightly baggy look and is hard wearing, standing up to even my biggest off. The outer features lower leg zips and handy mesh zip-up pockets for when the heat is on. The crutch of the outer is well gusseted to give plenty of room when moving around the saddle.
Sadly the shorts didn’t reach my knees as promised and the super size bubble was burst. Juggernauts should live up to length expectations for most bar my super tall friends. These are well priced and solidly built shorts that hang nicely loose amongst the baggy brigade.
Read more reviews here
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Scott 24 with Raging Bull Racing
Race along the crit track, down the fire-trail, two wheel drifting around the first corner to the outside of the gate. Keeping the pace up along the open trail to the short section of bitumen (now known for the spew patch). The first section of single track is dry and hard packed can be pumped and weaves through the shrubbery. The next section caught me out with its additional lumps of soil, when attempting a high speed passing maneuver found me improvising over a mound of dirt and weeds.
The climbing at Stromlo comes with switchbacks, a great place to get familiar with the 180 turn (team Powered by Freddo calls them Bill-backs). You could join a couple of conga lines lead by a slower rider, courteously passing riders when the opportunity arises. The GT was stiff and turned on a dime, it was light and accelerated swiftly when making a break for it on the sections of fire trail. The track and Bill-backs open a little as the climb continues and it wasn’t till the traverse across the top of Stromlo that it narrowed and turned just a bit rocky.
Choosing the right line became important as maintaining momentum during the traverse. Reaching what seems like the highest point, check my watch to find almost 30 minutes on track. Now for the fun part, descending off the mountain. Squeezing between the two big rocks it is all burms, drops and tabletops. It was this terrain the Velvet R fork loves. Once again it was line choice and keeping loose, soaking up the rough stuff. It was here on top of Stromlo I passed a few familiar faces, one of the fast SCUM juniors and part of the winning schools teams. Yes it was a Binder and yes she tried to latch onto my rear wheel after a quick hello. Diane Perry was pondering life atop of the mountain, "Crummy why am I doing this?" she asked switching up the last climb. Over on the decent I came across Bill of Bill-back fame tensely making his way around a small bermed high speed corner. "Bill-back", I call as I follow another rider on the inside line, "Come on Bill!" The backside and downhill trail included a couple of A line choices in the way of drops and rollovers. Everyone must have seen someone or be involved in a over the bar incident while riding these sections, it seemed like everyone had a story.
Reaching the start of Skyline, during the night laps you would head straight through to Skyline and chomp on a bit of the main downhill track before linking onto fire trail then back onto single track somewhere before Wombat Junction. On a day lap we headed left before Skyline transitioning on to the relatively smooth tabletop section. Get enough speed you would clear and often pump the mounds, reaching even more serious speed. What a ball it was.
Now the course wound its way back to near the main area via Wombat Junction and all the rocks, to only tease every rider by winding back away and crossing over the track. It included enough climbing to punish a rider not leaving a little in the tank. From here it was relatively smooth sailing, with plenty of speed down the fire trail. Braking late into the right hand corner of a dog leg, pump a couple of bumps and head into what became a muddy mess. Virtually the only wet part on course lead under and around, then back onto the crit track.
So I ended up doing six laps for the team Raging Bull Racing. The team completed 19 laps and placed mid field in the mixed fours category. It was good to catch up with many people at the race and I was happy to be on the team side of the fence again.
The climbing at Stromlo comes with switchbacks, a great place to get familiar with the 180 turn (team Powered by Freddo calls them Bill-backs). You could join a couple of conga lines lead by a slower rider, courteously passing riders when the opportunity arises. The GT was stiff and turned on a dime, it was light and accelerated swiftly when making a break for it on the sections of fire trail. The track and Bill-backs open a little as the climb continues and it wasn’t till the traverse across the top of Stromlo that it narrowed and turned just a bit rocky.
Choosing the right line became important as maintaining momentum during the traverse. Reaching what seems like the highest point, check my watch to find almost 30 minutes on track. Now for the fun part, descending off the mountain. Squeezing between the two big rocks it is all burms, drops and tabletops. It was this terrain the Velvet R fork loves. Once again it was line choice and keeping loose, soaking up the rough stuff. It was here on top of Stromlo I passed a few familiar faces, one of the fast SCUM juniors and part of the winning schools teams. Yes it was a Binder and yes she tried to latch onto my rear wheel after a quick hello. Diane Perry was pondering life atop of the mountain, "Crummy why am I doing this?" she asked switching up the last climb. Over on the decent I came across Bill of Bill-back fame tensely making his way around a small bermed high speed corner. "Bill-back", I call as I follow another rider on the inside line, "Come on Bill!" The backside and downhill trail included a couple of A line choices in the way of drops and rollovers. Everyone must have seen someone or be involved in a over the bar incident while riding these sections, it seemed like everyone had a story.
Reaching the start of Skyline, during the night laps you would head straight through to Skyline and chomp on a bit of the main downhill track before linking onto fire trail then back onto single track somewhere before Wombat Junction. On a day lap we headed left before Skyline transitioning on to the relatively smooth tabletop section. Get enough speed you would clear and often pump the mounds, reaching even more serious speed. What a ball it was.
Now the course wound its way back to near the main area via Wombat Junction and all the rocks, to only tease every rider by winding back away and crossing over the track. It included enough climbing to punish a rider not leaving a little in the tank. From here it was relatively smooth sailing, with plenty of speed down the fire trail. Braking late into the right hand corner of a dog leg, pump a couple of bumps and head into what became a muddy mess. Virtually the only wet part on course lead under and around, then back onto the crit track.
So I ended up doing six laps for the team Raging Bull Racing. The team completed 19 laps and placed mid field in the mixed fours category. It was good to catch up with many people at the race and I was happy to be on the team side of the fence again.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Working towards 2010
A long weekend should have been a good time to do some more training. Saturday saw me head out with a very small group of hardy weather-resistant tri-athletes. A couple of flats, partial precipitation and four hours later I rode home hungry not expecting to be out for so long. It was hard work in the wind with a small group and a slow leaking rear tube. Changing the tube at the turnaround point and a thick bore pump saw a low pressure rear tyre for the return trip. Nothing like doing the hard yards, at least I had the wind on my back.
The rest of the weekend didn't go as well as the start of the weekend. Inconsistent showers, rice hail and wet tracks saw me only go for short casual rides for the remainder of the weekend. Why ride every day? What is all this for? Worlds 2010. I think it is official. Canberra will be the host of the 2010 24hrs of Adrenalin Solo World Championships. After aussie domination overseas, with the likes of Gordo, Mr Williamson, Fenz, Mr English, Shane Taylor, Mr Fellows, Bozz, Mr McAvoy smashing in both elite and age groups, and that is just the blokes. I am going to be there and having fun.
Being on the bike and having fun will only be part of it. It is going to require a combination of raising my level of fitness, study and practice of technique, and development of a strong mind to produce a top performance. Forming a focused training program will be the foundation of further developing my aerobic system.
24solo2010, join the team and have some fun.
The rest of the weekend didn't go as well as the start of the weekend. Inconsistent showers, rice hail and wet tracks saw me only go for short casual rides for the remainder of the weekend. Why ride every day? What is all this for? Worlds 2010. I think it is official. Canberra will be the host of the 2010 24hrs of Adrenalin Solo World Championships. After aussie domination overseas, with the likes of Gordo, Mr Williamson, Fenz, Mr English, Shane Taylor, Mr Fellows, Bozz, Mr McAvoy smashing in both elite and age groups, and that is just the blokes. I am going to be there and having fun.
Being on the bike and having fun will only be part of it. It is going to require a combination of raising my level of fitness, study and practice of technique, and development of a strong mind to produce a top performance. Forming a focused training program will be the foundation of further developing my aerobic system.
24solo2010, join the team and have some fun.
Monday, September 28, 2009
SCUM's Coolendel Weekend
Held along the Shoalhaven river on the property of the eco cabin and camping resort. Coolendel now boasts seven kilometers of MTB track, good camping facilities and plenty of brushes with nature. This is the third year Coolendel and SCUM have combined to produce this simple, fun for the whole family, three race weekend.Race 1, the one hour sprint. This year there was a beginners race without "the new bit" first. A couple of experience young riders led the racers, keeping the front runners on course. Parents rode with their cycling siblings, some of littlest kids were on bmx style bikes, running up the climbs. Other more experienced riders rode as sweepers, keeping an eye on the back end of the race.
After the beginners race the course was lengthened to include "the new bit" for the more adventurous and second one hour sprint on the medium length version of the track. With some of the FTP crew here to race for the weekend the front end of the pack was going to be fast. My race was good, I didn't get a great start but gave 100% for the hour. Tricky parts of the course included a couple of pinch climbs that tested you every lap. "The new bit" was a sweet and fresh with tight climbs and technical twists. It also included a technical ride down a gully which had small rock gardens.
Race 2, the two hour night ride. To sum it all up, it was held on the short course. Cold, windy and a bit of dust in sections, dew build up in others. My legs weren't fresh after the one hour sprint, this one was night training for other upcoming rides. Testing the lights, ensuring the bike is comfortable for on and off racing.
Race 3, the 4 hour Enduro. Sunday dawned, sunny and windy! After a cold night the morning wasn't much better. To warm up in the bunkhouse the fire was reignited early. The race started at ten. There was a another great turn out of eager racers of all ages, who had survived the cool and windy night in their various types of accommodation and were determined to ride the extra long version of the track. The wind was howling through the trees, which meant the briefing was a bit hard to hear. Then, the race began. I got a great start, putting myself up the front with the more "elite" riders. I had set my drink bottles up, with some snakes for energy the final twenty minute sugar rush, at a convenient locale, just behind the bunk house, and I was able to grab them as needed. My loyal and hardworking support crew, was spending her time encouraging me and taking photos from various places on the track, which was always a surprise. Somewhere around the three hour mark, I had lost a bottle and used up the last of my full water bottles, and, seeing as though my support crew was having a well earned break, I was able to borrow a bottle from Canberra's Mark Tepalski. That kept me going until my support crew realised my predicament and refilled all of my bottles for me, enabling me to continue strongly until the end. 
The strong wind threw up a number of challenges throughout the race. Branches were coming down on the track everywhere, and it was lucky that nobody was seriously injured by a tree or branch hitting them. The sandy parts of the track becoming more heavily rutted as each rider passed over them every lap, and the wind was chaffing. I was only just out on a lap when the 4 hour marked ticked over, and I was just required to finish the lap I was on. The first hour of this race was my best, and I rode well for that time. The next three hours required me to just ride, and to keep the pace going. I was challenged by one of the ftp crew on the last lap and had to make up over thirty seconds half way through the lap. Flying off the top of the hill and riding smart through "the new bit" I was able to gain ground. Coming out of "the new bit" I had his wheel, the pace was fast and he was putting the pressure on, trying to get a gap on me for the final section. Managing to hold the wheel to the final pinch climb, I set myself up for a sprint to the finish. I spotted my lycra clad ftp friend had dropped to the granny for the climb, it was all over there as I held the middle ring to smash the pinch to the finish line. My aim was to have fun and finish the race. A lot of other riders were pulling out of and giving up on the race. I succeeded, and the fresh made food and hot shower were both a fantastic reward. Tuesday, September 22, 2009
WSMTB/MWMTB XC
WSMTB/MWMTB XC Round 6? Well it has been a while since the last XC round and it was back at Yarramundi again. A Grade riders were again very fast, with the likes of state XC elite riders mashing the pedals at the front. The track only had one tower of power climb on the day and skipped the furthest north section too, around seven kilometers long I heard. It was very dry, dusty and a bit loose in sections. On the first lap I passed Big Dog, which felt a bit unusual, and held him off for a lap or so. Mr Armour had some issues on the first lap as well, failing to finish the race. I was out to have fun as usual, with a bit of two wheel drift here and there. The eight block tyre on the rear has lost much of its tread and is still predictably loose. After five fun filled laps I placed sixth in A Grade. Thanks to Mick (who rode well in the big B Grade) for helping me get to the race and bringing his port-a-shade, keeping us cool.
Head down to Coolendel this weekend for some great racing. Fenner, Carlson and Tupulski are just some of the big names already registered. There will be grades for all riders, more details at SCUM.
Head down to Coolendel this weekend for some great racing. Fenner, Carlson and Tupulski are just some of the big names already registered. There will be grades for all riders, more details at SCUM.
Zaskar and Rouse Hill
GT Zaskar, for some people brings back memories of a go anywhere, do anything bike. Elastermer forks, anodized purple extras and brakes of questionable ability. An all terrain bike.
The newest version of Zaskar is still has the well built frame, I whipped off all the parts to check it out. The frame is not an ultra light carbon either. There seems to be plenty of carbon thickness and alloy inserts in the right places.
With parts fitted I have put the bike through its paces, XC races, enduro, marathon and trail riding. First it was my body copping a flogging as I slowly adapted to riding a hard-tail. But I challenged myself and the bike to challenging conditions, riding up to six hours straight over varied terrain. On smooth trails and under heavy acceleration the frame feels stiff, responsive and light. When it turns rough, the flex is not felt through the frame but the components fitted.
Sure the components have changed, air sprung forks, light alloy parts and hydraulic disc brakes. The Carbon Pro came with reliable XT just about everything. For me the GT Zaskar fits squarely in the all terrain box, like old times.
Been dragged to go shopping at Rouse Hill? Well take your favorite set of fat rubber with you next time and tell the partner to take as long as they want. 'Couse there are trails just five minutes from the red/green light parking based shopping village. I check some of the trails out recently and was presently surprised with the amount of single-track available to ride on. Many of these trails can be linked by the cycleway that rings the suburb. Rouse Hill single-track, hours of fun without the retail stigma.
The newest version of Zaskar is still has the well built frame, I whipped off all the parts to check it out. The frame is not an ultra light carbon either. There seems to be plenty of carbon thickness and alloy inserts in the right places.
With parts fitted I have put the bike through its paces, XC races, enduro, marathon and trail riding. First it was my body copping a flogging as I slowly adapted to riding a hard-tail. But I challenged myself and the bike to challenging conditions, riding up to six hours straight over varied terrain. On smooth trails and under heavy acceleration the frame feels stiff, responsive and light. When it turns rough, the flex is not felt through the frame but the components fitted.
Sure the components have changed, air sprung forks, light alloy parts and hydraulic disc brakes. The Carbon Pro came with reliable XT just about everything. For me the GT Zaskar fits squarely in the all terrain box, like old times.
Been dragged to go shopping at Rouse Hill? Well take your favorite set of fat rubber with you next time and tell the partner to take as long as they want. 'Couse there are trails just five minutes from the red/green light parking based shopping village. I check some of the trails out recently and was presently surprised with the amount of single-track available to ride on. Many of these trails can be linked by the cycleway that rings the suburb. Rouse Hill single-track, hours of fun without the retail stigma.
Monday, September 14, 2009
My Bike
The Commuter aka "Roadie Eater"
Frame: Mongoose Pro Zero G2
Fork: Rock Shox Judy SL
Shock: 3mm Alloy Angle
Wheel set: Mavic 117 with Shimano Hubs
Cranks: Deore Hollowtech II Square Taper
Rear Derailier: Deore XT
Brakes: Hayes Sole Cable Disc
Tyres: 2.0" Richey Inno Vader, 1.25" Serfas Drifter
Saddle: WTB Speed V
Extras: Bell, wheel reflector, reflective tape all over.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Western Sydney Cycling Network
This volunteer organisation holds community rides on the first Sunday of every month. Team Crummy went along to their community ride for September, to see what all the fuss was about.Based out of Fairfield Showground these guys and girls like a bike or to. They repair old bikes and lend them out to the community, many of them are accredited cycling coaches which skills they use at schools around the district. Cycling as a school sport, it could be catching on.
This enthusiastic team, on the first Sunday of the month, runs organised rides around the shared cycle ways of Western Sydney. For our ride we left the showground and headed around to Prospect Dam following the large network of cycle ways. From Prospect Dam it was onto the old water supply pipeline that had been now converted to a shared cycle way heading east. We turned right onto the Cumberland Highway and after a few clicks were back onto the designated network. It was from here we joined up to the route we took from the showground but heading back instead.
It was smooth and mostly flat ride. I highly suggest these rides for families, new cyclists and those that like a very casual “bunch ride”. The team from Western Sydney Cycling Network lead, rove and follow the loose bunch and ensure everybody enjoys the ride. Everyone is welcome to join in the community ride, no matter what type of bicycle you ride. These rides are highly achievable and have an added bonus of a BBQ snag free at the end.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Latest Reviews
Troy Lee Design XC Gloves
Full finger gloves for most weather conditions. They breath well and unrestrictive. These gloves are comfortable around fingers and across palm. My first set of these gloves have been used daily for well over a year. There is evidence of heavy use, the gloves have worn through on the inside of the thumbs and expected signs of wear across the palm.
I purchased my second set of TLD XC gloves this year. It was around this time I found the injected rubber across the glove was irritating my index finger knuckle. After using a different set of gloves through the cold of winter, I took to the TLD gloves with a sharp implement to remove the rubber around the index knuckle. The irritation is no longer.
These gloves can just about do everything you need mtb wise.
DZNUTS
Since a wet solo 24hr race early in the year I have been troubled by light chamois rash. The rash becomes most evident during longer rides and enduros. Dznuts is a high viscosity chamois cream that I received a sample of and a warm marathon in QLD recently was a perfect place to put this product to the test.
The official instructions were simple, drop your shorts, apply cream directly or to dry chamois, be a champion and enjoy the ride. I applied a liberal amount as directed before the ride. Then spent the next five and three quarters of an hour attempting to enjoy my first marathon on a hardtail.
The blunt end at the end of the marathon was a positive result by the cream, with no evidence of chamois rash. All smiles here.
Wiley X Sunglasses
With the extra protection of a "Face Cavity Seal", removable foam insert, and a shatterproof lens. Wiley X look to be the perfect eyewear for cycling.
During though testing on the bike the thicker arms of the glasses were not compatible with my helmets and sat uncomfortably on my ears. The thick arms with and without the seal also hinder peripheral vision, a hazard when commuting or transiting via asphalt to you local dirt haunt.
Apart from these hindrances Wiley X offer a stylish and functional eyewear option. Lenses can from clear through to tinted, photocromatic and prescriptions. They also pride themselves on fitment, offering a wide variety of models. At the time of picking up the glasses, I tried on up to four different styles to check the best comfort and seal of the foam.
These glasses can meet the needs of us as mtb riders but can be used in many other sports, on the moto or in a workplace.
More Crummy Reviews here.
Full finger gloves for most weather conditions. They breath well and unrestrictive. These gloves are comfortable around fingers and across palm. My first set of these gloves have been used daily for well over a year. There is evidence of heavy use, the gloves have worn through on the inside of the thumbs and expected signs of wear across the palm.
I purchased my second set of TLD XC gloves this year. It was around this time I found the injected rubber across the glove was irritating my index finger knuckle. After using a different set of gloves through the cold of winter, I took to the TLD gloves with a sharp implement to remove the rubber around the index knuckle. The irritation is no longer.
These gloves can just about do everything you need mtb wise.
DZNUTS
Since a wet solo 24hr race early in the year I have been troubled by light chamois rash. The rash becomes most evident during longer rides and enduros. Dznuts is a high viscosity chamois cream that I received a sample of and a warm marathon in QLD recently was a perfect place to put this product to the test.
The official instructions were simple, drop your shorts, apply cream directly or to dry chamois, be a champion and enjoy the ride. I applied a liberal amount as directed before the ride. Then spent the next five and three quarters of an hour attempting to enjoy my first marathon on a hardtail.
The blunt end at the end of the marathon was a positive result by the cream, with no evidence of chamois rash. All smiles here.
Wiley X Sunglasses
With the extra protection of a "Face Cavity Seal", removable foam insert, and a shatterproof lens. Wiley X look to be the perfect eyewear for cycling.
During though testing on the bike the thicker arms of the glasses were not compatible with my helmets and sat uncomfortably on my ears. The thick arms with and without the seal also hinder peripheral vision, a hazard when commuting or transiting via asphalt to you local dirt haunt.
Apart from these hindrances Wiley X offer a stylish and functional eyewear option. Lenses can from clear through to tinted, photocromatic and prescriptions. They also pride themselves on fitment, offering a wide variety of models. At the time of picking up the glasses, I tried on up to four different styles to check the best comfort and seal of the foam.
These glasses can meet the needs of us as mtb riders but can be used in many other sports, on the moto or in a workplace.
More Crummy Reviews here.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Shane Taylor - Croc4kids
Visit croc4kids.blogspot.com and help fundraise for The Children's Hospital at Westmead.
While you are there check out how to get Shane to the Croc Trophy, the hardest MTB race in the world.
While you are there check out how to get Shane to the Croc Trophy, the hardest MTB race in the world.
Epic 09
The weather was warm in QLD and I was concerned with the late start of the race. Heat stress would be the equalizer. We arrive early and warmed up, it was a busy hub at the winery south of Toowoomba. I wandered over saying g'day to Mr Jongewaard and Mr Anderson getting set up, they had traveled from SA for the weekends festivities. Also chatted with Matt from Ay-Up who was here to support his riders, like Mr Fellows.
Off the start line it is more a casual pace than I have seen at many marathons. Darren Smith, Shane Taylor along with a bunch of other riders are lead out by big Mr J. It is a bitumen climb followed by some undulating hills. Through the hills Darren is in the lead group and finds the pace just a little hot falling back to the second group with me. We ride together into the cool of Ma Ma Creek, following cow trail when not being miss led about the creek bed cross-overs. Then get caught out by the fence. Where were the signs?
When we are out of the creek it is really warm, there is a big climb, Darren begins to leave me behind as I begin to ride my own race. This big hill is followed by more rough track and some open climbs in the sun. The down hills sweep steeply back down into the valleys, I point and shoot letting the Velvets do their job and my weight back over the rear wheel. I do remember getting some serious speed, many of the guys record excess of 80kph on these dirt roads and tracks. I ride with one of the owners of "For the Riders", thanks for the pace.
Reaching the half way point, I have smashed heaps of fluids, I search for my fresh bottle dropped of by the 50km riders. Finding our box of bottles, I head out for the next leg and the rider in front makes a wrong turn. It is the leading female rider, we jump a fence and cross a paddock, then another fence to make our way back to the course. She then powers away, the hills seem to be getting harder for me. My heart rate is peaking on these climbs and I occasionally have to pause in some shade to recover. My calves have been cramping and I am struggling to keep my heels down enough to stretch, just ride your own race. There are occasional creek crossing with no more then a trickle to splash through and 50km riders are stopped at every shady spot.
Heading into the final check point I cross to the water station, a volunteer refills my bottle, I pick up some fruit and complained about my cramps. The volunteer also gives me something for the cramps, which offers only partial relief down the road. There is more road sections and rough fire trail, it is undulating and I count every climb. My camelbak is out of water and I am down to just the bottle, a rider passes me who I have ridden with before in a marathon. I pick up and pass the sunshine coast based rider on the next decent. There are 50km riders still spread out along the track, some riding, others recovering in the shade. Ms Hansen catches up again and we power along the remaining road sections to the Resort’s final section, just 5km or so to go. And out of water.
It turns to single track, which is a nightmare at this late stage. I loose a small amount of time to the set pace with traffic. Linking multiple corners to flow whist passing tired riders, who now pick their way through the track, congregating at the small technical rocky sections. Frustration as you can hear the loudspeaker but the track twists and turns, up and down the hills. But finally see the finish, passing under the banner in 5 hours and 45 minutes.
Exhausted, parched and cramping I find shade beside the team bus. I down a protein mix for recovery after some simple apple juice. There are showers, fresh clothes to put on and more water to drink.
In the wash-up of it all I placed 10th in my category, only two minutes behind Shane Taylor. Darren Smith shows his great form arriving 30 minutes before us. Temperature for the day was around 33 degrees C. It was a good fun race with very tough conditions. Maybe next year ...
Off the start line it is more a casual pace than I have seen at many marathons. Darren Smith, Shane Taylor along with a bunch of other riders are lead out by big Mr J. It is a bitumen climb followed by some undulating hills. Through the hills Darren is in the lead group and finds the pace just a little hot falling back to the second group with me. We ride together into the cool of Ma Ma Creek, following cow trail when not being miss led about the creek bed cross-overs. Then get caught out by the fence. Where were the signs?
When we are out of the creek it is really warm, there is a big climb, Darren begins to leave me behind as I begin to ride my own race. This big hill is followed by more rough track and some open climbs in the sun. The down hills sweep steeply back down into the valleys, I point and shoot letting the Velvets do their job and my weight back over the rear wheel. I do remember getting some serious speed, many of the guys record excess of 80kph on these dirt roads and tracks. I ride with one of the owners of "For the Riders", thanks for the pace.
Reaching the half way point, I have smashed heaps of fluids, I search for my fresh bottle dropped of by the 50km riders. Finding our box of bottles, I head out for the next leg and the rider in front makes a wrong turn. It is the leading female rider, we jump a fence and cross a paddock, then another fence to make our way back to the course. She then powers away, the hills seem to be getting harder for me. My heart rate is peaking on these climbs and I occasionally have to pause in some shade to recover. My calves have been cramping and I am struggling to keep my heels down enough to stretch, just ride your own race. There are occasional creek crossing with no more then a trickle to splash through and 50km riders are stopped at every shady spot.
Heading into the final check point I cross to the water station, a volunteer refills my bottle, I pick up some fruit and complained about my cramps. The volunteer also gives me something for the cramps, which offers only partial relief down the road. There is more road sections and rough fire trail, it is undulating and I count every climb. My camelbak is out of water and I am down to just the bottle, a rider passes me who I have ridden with before in a marathon. I pick up and pass the sunshine coast based rider on the next decent. There are 50km riders still spread out along the track, some riding, others recovering in the shade. Ms Hansen catches up again and we power along the remaining road sections to the Resort’s final section, just 5km or so to go. And out of water.
It turns to single track, which is a nightmare at this late stage. I loose a small amount of time to the set pace with traffic. Linking multiple corners to flow whist passing tired riders, who now pick their way through the track, congregating at the small technical rocky sections. Frustration as you can hear the loudspeaker but the track twists and turns, up and down the hills. But finally see the finish, passing under the banner in 5 hours and 45 minutes.
Exhausted, parched and cramping I find shade beside the team bus. I down a protein mix for recovery after some simple apple juice. There are showers, fresh clothes to put on and more water to drink.
In the wash-up of it all I placed 10th in my category, only two minutes behind Shane Taylor. Darren Smith shows his great form arriving 30 minutes before us. Temperature for the day was around 33 degrees C. It was a good fun race with very tough conditions. Maybe next year ...
Snack Food
Always interested in food, I have found a couple of basic recipes that are good snacks, on and off the bike.
Peanut Bars
1/2 cup peanuts, salted is good
1/2 cup other nuts or seeds
1/2 cup dried fruit, cranberries are my choice
2 cups oats
2 cups rice cereal, the cheap one works just as well
1/2 cup peanut butter, smooth or not
1/2 cup brown sugar
options: teaspoons of honey
In a bowl mix the nuts, seeds, fruit, oats and cereal.
Combine peanut butter, sugar and honey, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stir until blended.
Pour wet ingredients over dry, stir until coated.
Spoon onto greaseproof paper covered tray, press down firmly. I use a 10-15mm sided 150mm x 250mm tray.
Let stand or refrigerate for an hour, cut into bars.
Oat Muffins
1 cup oats
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup margarine
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 cup self raising flour
pinch of salt
1/2 cup dried fruit
options: plenty of, 1/4 cup nuts and 3 tbls honey, 2 bananas with 1/4 cup olive oil, both with 1/4 tbls ground cinnamon.
Soak oats with buttermilk.
Cream marg and sugar until light.
Beat in egg to sugar mix.
Stir in flour and oat mix.
Fold in fruit to mix.
Fill muffin cups to 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 on 200 degrees C.
Eat it!
Peanut Bars
1/2 cup peanuts, salted is good
1/2 cup other nuts or seeds
1/2 cup dried fruit, cranberries are my choice
2 cups oats
2 cups rice cereal, the cheap one works just as well
1/2 cup peanut butter, smooth or not
1/2 cup brown sugar
options: teaspoons of honey
In a bowl mix the nuts, seeds, fruit, oats and cereal.
Combine peanut butter, sugar and honey, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stir until blended.
Pour wet ingredients over dry, stir until coated.
Spoon onto greaseproof paper covered tray, press down firmly. I use a 10-15mm sided 150mm x 250mm tray.
Let stand or refrigerate for an hour, cut into bars.
Oat Muffins
1 cup oats
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup margarine
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 cup self raising flour
pinch of salt
1/2 cup dried fruit
options: plenty of, 1/4 cup nuts and 3 tbls honey, 2 bananas with 1/4 cup olive oil, both with 1/4 tbls ground cinnamon.
Soak oats with buttermilk.
Cream marg and sugar until light.
Beat in egg to sugar mix.
Stir in flour and oat mix.
Fold in fruit to mix.
Fill muffin cups to 2/3 full. Bake for 20-25 on 200 degrees C.
Eat it!
Interesting spots of late.
Armidale, NSW. Ask at the bike shop on the main street where some mtb trails are. They lead us to discoverer a well developed but unused for some time trail not far from the CBD. Easily accessible via a cycleway on the northern side of town. XC and light FR, heaps of fun!
Ipswich, QLD. In particular Castle Hill. Not far from town we were blown away by the fun desents the locals have built. Ride to the top of the hill and just look around. There is plenty of well bedded track built for a good ride. XC, FR and DH, there are B-lines for most of the technical sections. Fun includes se-saws, skinnys and log rides.
Ipswich, QLD. In particular Castle Hill. Not far from town we were blown away by the fun desents the locals have built. Ride to the top of the hill and just look around. There is plenty of well bedded track built for a good ride. XC, FR and DH, there are B-lines for most of the technical sections. Fun includes se-saws, skinnys and log rides.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
MTB Grand Prix
Both on the same day, same location, it was bound to be interesting. Not only that there was MTB racing up and down the coast on the same weekend. So, it was off to Yarramundi again, a few of the boys wanted to do the 12hr solo and needed a bit of support. It was an early start to get a good tent location near the transition. It was to be a tent of Mick's, one out for his first solo 12hr, another pushing for a good 12hr result in elite solo. The usual suspect Mick was giving the Grand Prix a crack, then there was a honorary Mick who kept an eye on the 12hr elite solo listing, happy that Mr English wasn’t going to turn up.
The 12hr riders were of a little late with a cool morning just burning off. It was a fire trail climb before riders headed into the single track. Starts can be fickle and the 12hr Mick’s all had different stories, good, bad and indifferent. I wanted to give first solo Mick the best chance to complete his 12hrs of riding, he had arranged a nutrition and fluid plan and I ensured he had what was necessary, set out neatly. Good result Mick had his own crew and was set with two bikes for fast laps. Honorary Mick had an experienced crew and shop support for his bikes, he was in the front runners from the start.
It was only a couple of hours after the 12hr start the Grand Prix qualifying period started with a hot lap of the WSMTB kids track. It was just a bit over a minute around the short track, a sandy corner patch, medium to slow switchbacks, a short rocky section into a gradual climb and finishing straight. I lowered my tyres pressures just a bit as there wasn’t any technical sections, for more positive traction. There were a few fast lads with some serious equipment, I was unsure at how well I qualified. Fifty or so minutes laterwe lined up for the start and the qualifying results. I managed a hot lap and was awarded pole position!
The race was good with a modified track, around seven kilometers in length and it didn’t include any tower of power climbs. It was the usual fast at the front with the quick riders from the qualifying lap in each category setting off in waves. One of the junior pairs elbowed me into the fencing at the start, then it was flat stick to the bottom of the hill through a bit of single track. There was a water crossing then a climb up to the moto track, the climb sorted out the weaker front runners. The other highlight was the lap one off I had. I failed to negotiate a rock and pothole, pitching me out of the saddle and over the bars. Days later I am reminded of this first lap with a nice bruise from the top of the steerer tube on my thigh. My remaining laps I didn't make the same mistake.
It was about an hour into the race and I had a rider tailing me, I gave it a bit but he held on. A couple of laps later I let the rider pass and held his wheel for a bit. But reminded myself to ride my own race and listen to my body. Easing off the pace a little there became a small time gap between myself and the other rider. Things were looking good on the Zaskar early in the race, the bike was working well, the Velvet R forks got a workout and felt better on the bike with the increased fork pressure. I was have plenty of trail eating fun.
Things went well through the middle of the race, there were plenty of spots to pass riders and everyone was courteous. The track was well worn in, 12hr solo riders were in the zone and the teams continued to hammer out quick laps.
The fun didn't last forever, late in the race, nearing the fourth hour the newly acquired skills started falling apart and the hard-tail was showing how stiff and unforgiving it could be. The last lap was a bit of a struggle, I so wanted to sit down and just spin through the lap. Gritting my teeth I forced my way through the lap, the mind was willing and the body was slow.
Ends up I placed first in the solo men category, with second place approximately six minutes behind me. Friends in the FRS/Rotor Ring team of four also got on the podium as did honorary Mick. Honorary Mick is also out to win an entry to the Crocodile Trophy, one of Australia’s hardest multi-day races. Check it out here. 
Thanks to Tony from Energy Supplements Australia for his support with the natural energy of FRS.
Also to Shane from Bikes at the Basin in Sanctuary Point. His passion for bikes and support goes along way with fast bikes like the Zaskar and Canaan.
Duncan from DIY MTB I should thank too for his support, it is a trail eating and top-notch fork from X-Fusion.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Sean "Bozz" Bekkers Age Group Solo 24hr World Champion - The Definitive Interview.
I spoke with Sean a couple of days after returning to Australia, he said his legs were swollen and he was a little sore. We discussed single speed bikes and training wheels as the achievement he had just undertaken had not yet settled in. Let me fill you in.
It's Canada and it's summer. A warm 36 degrees in the Rockys and Canmore is the home to the 24hr of Adrenalin World Championships for the second year running. There is a range of accents in town, campervans and plenty of bikes. The Aussies were there again, in numbers, many vying for top dog placing. Around town there is a quagmire of trails, with the 24hr track having around 500 vertical meters of climbing and pushed out to 16km in length. Many an Aussie compared the track to Majura Pines, with steep climbs and root ridden sections. And the Canadian trails only go in two directions, straight up or straight down.
For those that ride solo, one of the hardest parts of a race can be the start, especially if it is Le Mans. The Le Monde start is often a 500 meter run into the transition area, hopefully remembering where your bike was. Dressed in a helmet and cycling shoes it is funny to watch but no fun to do.
Out on the track everyone has some form of plan, settle in for a long hard ride or go out hard then settle back and hold on. Sean’s plan was the latter and worked in his favor, leading the age group from the early hours. He powered on through sunset, the change in weather and hit the wall mid-race. A combination of a tough, rough course and nutrition had taken its toll. With a course like this just being able to ride each lap is high on the priority list with things like fluids and nutrition lower. It became important to stop and recharge, breaking out the sugar and caffeinated gels and fluids. But it was equally important Sean’s support crew kicked him back out onto the track for another lap for the “hold on” part of the plan.
A good support crew can make a difference. Sean’s crew was made up of his wife Kiri who traveled with him for the event and a Canadian friend of a friend Vang. They kept lap times, checked out the running results keeping a keen eye on the time and hopefully laps between Bozz and the riders behind him. Positive encouragement becomes more necessary as the course becomes more difficult to ride and with a solid ride through the dark hours they had managed to put two laps between first and second place. It is a massive effort by support crews to ensure riders have what the need and want, also a careful balance of emotion to get a rider back out on the course.
Throughout the morning as the hills be came mountains and descents like an endless rodeo bull-ride. It became vital to ride cleanly, without mistakes, preserving the lead they had and to “hold on” till the end. There were plenty of casualties to the descents but Sean rode within his limits, lap after lap, into the finish time. He placed first in his 25-29 age group category and an impressively ranked 18th overall.
Who is Bozz Bekkers? I asked when I called a week later. He had no comment and left it to me to give you an idea of the man. It is simple, give him a ball, he’ll kick it. Give him a surfboard, he’ll paddle it. Give him a mountainbike ...... And if he doesn’t like it, he’ll tell you.
MC, Two words to describe your riding?
SB, Long and strong, before being beaten by the worlds track.
MC, Any notable MTB injuries?
SB, No major injuries, I’m too timid.
MC, Where does the Worlds rate for you?
SB, The Worlds is at the top, it has been the biggest adventure.
MC, Your best move during the Worlds?
SB, Managing to stay on the bike throughout the course and not crashing.
MC, A World Champion support crew has to?
SB, My pit-crew was Kiri and she was all over my lap times and where I was in the field. She also looked after my nutrition and kicked my ass back out on the course when I didn’t want to go.
MC, What is the Canmore crowd like?
SB, The locals are very laid back. They love mountainbiking and came out in their thousands to check out the 24hrs of Adrenalin. Everyone motivated you, the teams, the pit-crews and the crowd.
MC, Something you must run on your bike?
SB, ESI grips, they are the best.
MC, Are you still running tubes or are you now tubeless?
SB, I run tubes with Ranchero tyres.
MC, Where to from now?
SB, I am going to do the Scott 24hr in a pairs team with Andy Fellows.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Working Wingello
A few colleagues and I made our way down to the Southern Highlands. The Highlands is the home of the Fling and a great spot for a day out on the bike. Our chosen spot was Wingello and it has some nice climbs and sweet single track. As there was a group of us with a wide range of MTB experience. While waiting for the strugglers I got the chance to whip out the camera and managed to put together a couple of good shots.
The GT Zaskar was out to play again. I ran the tyres (sb8s) at a bit lower pressure but would really like to put a set of tubeless tyres on to provide higher traction and a smoother ride. The Zaskar is light, easy to move around the track and gets up to speed with ease. I am still working on the new climbing and descending techniques which comes with riding a hard-tail. Found also the Velvet forks might be running at to lower a pressure for the hard-tail. Although the fork never felt like it was botteming out, I found the fork was traveling to easy through its travel and induced bob. I now have increased the pressure as recommended by Duncan from DIY MTB to start from for my weight.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Round 3 & Championships of the X-Fusion State XC
Hosted by WSMTB at Springwood's Blue Gum Lodge track the Championships was well supported with over 140 riders. Once again the track was in good condition, short, twisty and mostly single track, there was even a new section with an extra rock garden section. I rode in the Expert category with the likes of fast man Mr Vanos, Mr Lamb and Shane Taylor. They were off like a shot from the start and I did all I could to keep up with them over the seven laps. Again not all competitors finished their laps with three riders DNF. It is a tough little course and where I chose to ride the GT Zaskar for first time. I went on to finish with my fastest lap and place 10th in the Category.
This is my first ride on a hard-tail (HT) and I found myself using different muscles. Two days later and I am still sore, where last weeks 6hr race I recovered overnight. It is possible I am riding using a different style and I still have a lot to learn about riding. Turns out I am a MTB Sitter when it comes to style, but on a HT you cant be a Sitter. Also how sketchy is a HT on the downhill? Yeah I have a lot to learn.
The bike is light and looks flash with its clear carbon finish, diamond shaped tubes and yellow pin-stripes. More on the bike as I use it. Things on the horizon could include the Grand Prix, the Flight Centre Epic and ADF Enduro Championships. 
The Judy forks on the commuter recently received Enduro seals and new lease on life. I found them tough to put in and spoke to Duncan from DIY MTB about it. Duncan said that all the Enduro seals for Rock Shox forks were tight, where Fox were easier to install. I would recommend if you need your Rock Shox serviced get it done by DIY MTB. DIY yourself may end in frustration and warped seals, I came close to leaving the Judy forks seal-less.
Le Tour is over with some great endurance riding by Cadel and Lance. There goes 30mins of cycling highlights a day, I will have to break out 24 Solo over the next couple of weeks. The 24hr World Champs is over with another orsome effort by Elite and Age group riders. Watch this space for a definitive interview with a World Champion.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Coondoo swings both ways.
The Merida X-Fusion 6hr was held on the weekend at one of SCUM's most popular locations. The Coondoo track had been reinvigorated by the organisational team and trail fairies. There were new sections of single track, power-line and fire trail and some sections of original Coondoo to be ridden in reverse. There was a rock garden which would be walked by an occasional competitor and downhill fire trail with water-bars screaming out air-time. The compulsory Coondoo log-rollovers were in there as well as a reversed section from the quarry to the wooden bridge becoming a sweet sandy switchback ascent.
Solos started separate from the teams and gained a four minute advantage via a shortcut through to the second quarter of the eleven kilometer track. Although the track was well bunted and signposted, there was a small mix-up with one reversed section but the remaining five hours and fifty minutes was without incident. The local Rural Fire Brigade volunteers were at hand to provide checkpoints around the track with their 4x4 vehicles and radios.
My race went well for the first half, the lead riders had scurried off into the distance and I was keeping a solid pace. Another Sydney based rider on his ss was riding with me and we were working well through the track. There was plenty of fun on the track, pushing the bike ,tyres and myself as far as we could go. Big air off water-bars, rollovers and plenty of fast switchbacks. Finding and connecting faster, smoother lines through new or reversed track. Or just letting it loose in front of the timing crew.
Around midday things changed, I lost focus and failed to negotiate a sandy corner, coming unstuck and lightly grazing my forearm. From this incident I found I was lacking the same power as before, my legs felt heavy, I was in the hurt locker. I lost contact with the ss rider and limped back through the remaining track to the transition to fuel up. It has been a very long time since I had felt this bad and I think nutrition was to blame. I may have skipped some food during the race so far and put myself in energy debt. I have found FRS works best with good nutrition, it was my mistake.
Over the next lap and a half it was all about recovery from the flat spell and bring my energy levels back up with a mixture of high and medium GI carbs. My legs began to feel better and I was able to settle into the usual enduro pace. At this point I wasn’t sure how much time I had lost during the flat spell to the ss rider.
Riding the loop for the last time, the clock passed the six hour, Mark from Canberra caught up with me. In fact I caught up with quite a few people over the event, there was a certain casual, festive vibe through out the event center and out on track. It was a great event by the organisers, a BBQ, cake stall, bike repairs, games and quizzes. Maybe just ease up with the Dave time on the microphone. Well done to the event organisers and all the volunteers for a fun ride.All up it turns out I didn’t loose to much time to the ss rider and went on to place 7th by minutes. My Canaan worked flawlessly and I had no mechanical issues. The X-Fusion Velvet fork I have on the Canaan is well suited to enduros and trail riding. Bring on more fun enduros SCUM.
A big thanks to Tracy and Hally for their hospitality over the weekend. Also to Kev for his time behind the lens.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Weekend of Training
Saturday training ride this week was with the local triathlon club. Firstly I attempted to meet up with the usual bunch from Rouse Hill but it was their week for the hilly Pitt Town ride and I never managed to catch up with them. So I made my way by some spots which cyclist could congregate and came across the tri club about to go for a ride. They headed out the back of the Hawkesbury in the hills and we climbed our way across to Kurmond. I haven’t been out that way before, there were plenty of hills and not to much traffic. From Kurmond it was all down hill to Richmond, my 42-12 max ratio had my legs spinning at least 120RPM to keep up. The tri's were a funny bunch on the road, there wasn't the same organisation I have experienced with other road-riding groups. But I will ride with them again, 70 odd kilometers of road hills and the legs know it.
I backed my Saturday training ride with another ride on Sunday. The Penrith cyclists rode by and I attached to the bunch. Their ride is fair paced but across mostly flat roads. It includes veterans of Western Sydney cycling through to keen cyclists out for a great Sunday ride. I have ridden with this group quite a few times and they don’t mind a bit of MTB in the mix. The group breaks apart in Penrith and I make my way back to the Hawkesbury region for a +50km return ride. It has been a while since I have done a 50km double and it was good.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
WSMTB/MWMTB XC Series Round 5
Finally there was a change of location for the WSMTB/MWMTB XC Series. The change was from MTB hot-spot Yarramundi to a property in Springwood. Blue Gum Lodge has a sweet track winding through its small forested area. This mostly single track crosses gullies and sandstone and chases its tail around the tight slopes of its choice Blue Mountains location. A great change from the usual and chance to ride this private track.
The A Grade bunch was made up of the fast and very fast. I slipped in behind them of the start then made up places on the first open corner with a great line and plenty of speed. I pushed the limits on the first lap, catching myself out on a smooth log with gravel around it. It could have been a combination of speed, distance to the rider in front and tyre choice. The small block 8s I felt were at their extreme with the small loose over hard-packed, sandstone, soft grippy soil and all the switchbacks.
It was an eight lap smash fest and everything worked really well. If you get a chance to ride the track at Blue Gum, grab it.
Don't forget to check out Bozz and his work-up towards the World Solo 24hr Championships in Canada at the end of the month.
The A Grade bunch was made up of the fast and very fast. I slipped in behind them of the start then made up places on the first open corner with a great line and plenty of speed. I pushed the limits on the first lap, catching myself out on a smooth log with gravel around it. It could have been a combination of speed, distance to the rider in front and tyre choice. The small block 8s I felt were at their extreme with the small loose over hard-packed, sandstone, soft grippy soil and all the switchbacks.
It was an eight lap smash fest and everything worked really well. If you get a chance to ride the track at Blue Gum, grab it.
Don't forget to check out Bozz and his work-up towards the World Solo 24hr Championships in Canada at the end of the month.
A break
A couple of weeks away from home and a break from competition for three weeks. There was a couple of visits to Wagga Wagga's Pommie track. Pommie is a sweet hard packed track that winds its way around and over a forest reserve backing onto Wagga City Golf course. There was a great view of the lights from the top of the hill of Wagga during my night ride. Wagga MTB Club claims to do social evening rides around their local trails during the week, unfortunately it seemed I was the only one out that evening. Maybe it has been the cold snap of winter taking the fun out of the dirt for some. Their loss, get out and ride!
Things coming up, the X-Fusion/Merdia 6hr at SCUM’s Coondoo Track. WSMTB/MWMTB XC Series and a trip to sunny QLD for an Epic.
Things coming up, the X-Fusion/Merdia 6hr at SCUM’s Coondoo Track. WSMTB/MWMTB XC Series and a trip to sunny QLD for an Epic.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Win some, Loose some
This weekend I headed out to a possible damp Yarramundi for the third round of the WSMTB/MWMTB XC Series. At rego they had the point score results for the first two rounds and there is my name sitting 4th down in A Grade. Sweet!From the start there was hot competition, Mr Price, Mr Elliot, Mr Gordon just to name a few. It was fast and furious up the front and I kept up for the first kilometer but their attack of the climbs was what I could not replicate. I did all I could but wasn't the only one to be left behind, my first lap was fun, swapping our "lead" with the other riders.
But it is amazing in cycling how fast you can come from nowhere, then how fast you are brought back to size.
Chain suck. Or variations of chain suck is where it went wrong. In three separate incidents over the second and third laps variations of chain suck happened after or during a rutted downhill section. I find chain suck ok when you can recover it on the move and a key to a good riding style is to not stop. These incidents had me off the track to recover the chain, I lost my rhythm and the back end of the A Grade field.
My support crew came along but I had to ride off the track to the car to get a fresh bottle. I had failed to inform my crew of my needs before the race. Off the track again. It was at this time my fun race wasn’t just that. On my way through the fourth lap I re-focused, cooled my jets and set about making a fun ride of it all. Whipping the tail out over the whoops and nailing the limited technical downhill sections.
The course was a basic Yarramundi layout with many of the technical climbs and rocky sections removed. Simple, fast and I liked most of it. In trying to limit the wet parts of the track it still had some damp and slippery patches. Good thing was my tyre choice, I had kept on the set of sparsely spaced full knobby tyres that I race on at Cabbage last week. Again it was a great choice keeping my power positively connected to the dirt.
Up the front I gave the Velvet R five more PSI to take it back to 60 as recommended by Duncan from DIY MTB. The fork continued to deliver full travel, effortlessly eating through the bumps and drops. The Canaan now climbs much better with the 100mm internally adjusted fork up the front.
After some really fun racing this year I came in with a win this week. Scoring a free entry via random draw to a round of NSWMTB XC Series. Cheers, Mr Armour!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Wet Cabbage
SCUM hosted another round of their XC series on the weekend at their flat and fast track at Cabbage Tree. Cabbage gets two thumbs up from Beginner through to Elite riders for different reasons and is a great track for honing some of those single track skills. Heaps of riders turned up to the round even with the scattered showers being forecast for the day.
From the start of the race I managed to hold Josh Carlson’s (State XC Round 1 elite winner and FRS rider) wheel and it wasn’t till the third lap that he made a considerable gap. I held off any other riders for the remaining of the race.
The track conditions were described as lying water and the track is normally hard packed dirt and clay. It didn’t take much more than a lap to change the lying water to muddy sections. I had picked a set of sparsely spaced full knobby tyres to match the conditions and was a great choice keeping my power positively connected to the dirt.
The mud wasn’t the only thing I had to contend with there were two occasions, mid race, where my rear derailleur could have been eaten by sticks and I had to stop to rescue it. On my fourth lap I had another incident that hasn’t happened in quite a while. By this stage I was covered in mud including my tinted glasses and it happened during a fast flowing section. I found myself removed from my bike, briefly flying, then impacting the soft dirt beside the track. Thankfully I didn’t damage myself or the bike.
My Mongoose Canaan Team from Bikes at the Basin now has a X-Fusion Velvet R fork from DIYMTB
fitted and it was great to test out the fork. Duncan from DIYMTB internally adjusted the fork from 130mm to 100m travel to suit my bike. The Velvet is a neat looking fork and I found it’s bump eating performance just as good as high end forks. I look forward to putting the Velvet through its paces in coming races.
It was a shame there was no Dugong sighting or swimming stories. But I had quite a bit of fun returning to Cabbage Tree and reminded me of my early MTB days when Cabbage was my local track. Two muddy thumbs up!
