Triple Crankset

New Rules: Jean-Etienne Amaury Needs to Shut Up

2008-10-06T18:09:00.007-04:00

"Hey Jean, COUNT MY FINGERS!"

My apologies to Bil Maher for borrowing "New Rules," but I wish the French would just shut up. Jean-Etienne Amaury is the new president of the Amaury Sports Organization, which runs the Tour de France. The ASO also owns the French sports paper, L'Equipe. Last week, this Frenchman, who does not understand the concept of conflict of interest (and, as Joe Biden would say, let me repeat that: this Frenchman who does not understand the concept of conflict of interest) said: "We cannot say that he [Our Boy Lance] has not embarrassed the Tour de France."

Let's just have OBL speak for himself:
"The last time I checked I won the tour seven straight years and was NEVER once found to be guilty of doping despite seven years of intense scrutiny. Not to mention that my team of 25 riders over those seven years was also NEVER found to be positive. We won clean and fair. Also, according to industry standards, TV ratings, worldwide media impressions, spectators along the route, and global sponsorships were at an all time high. Where's the embarrassment in that?

"Furthermore, as I've stated clearly, my main objective in 2009 is to bring about global awareness of a disease that kills 8 million people annually worldwide. Nobody ever said that I need the Tour de France in order to try and achieve this. It comes down to an issue of distraction, while I love the event and France's people, I cannot accept this sort of grandstanding which distracts from the Livestrong message that is urgently needed, and being sought out, in many other places around the world."

When someone proves (let me repeat that: PROVES) tha Lance Armstrong cheated, I'll be the first to take off my yellow wristband and admit I've been a fool. I continue to applaud the good work OBL is doing to increase cancer awareness and research. When Mr. Amaury wants to make a similar impact on society and not make a fool of himself and the wonderful sporting event he represents, I'll be happy to make a donation to the Lance Armstrong Foundation in his name.

Team Type 1 Re-Signs Moises Aldape, Adds Ricardo Escuela

2008-10-04T21:37:00.001-04:00

Atlanta — Team Type 1 is bolstering its strength in the field sprints for 2009 with the addition of Argentinian speedster Ricardo Escuela while re-signing Mexican Moises Aldape, who enjoyed a breakout season of his own.

Aldape and Escuela are the first two signings announced by the second-year professional squad that was founded to inspire people living with Type 1 diabetes to better manage their health and overcome obstacles often associated with the condition.

Aldape, 27, represented Mexico at the Summer Olympics in Beijing after winning the King of the Mountains classification and one stage of the Bend Memorial Cascade Cycling Classic, as well as the sprint classification at the Tour de Beauce.

Escuela, 25, established himself as one of the top sprinters on the domestic circuit in 2008 by winning stages at the Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah and the Cascade Classic while racing for Successfulliving.com presented by ParkPre.

It was Aldape’s impressive performance that helped Team Type 1 to a third-place finish in the team classification during the Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T. On the race’s most decisive stage, the climb up Brasstown Bald Mountain, Aldape’s sixth place led four riders from Team Type 1 in the top 17 on the day.

“Moises has been a go-to guy all year for us, whether sprinting to a top 10 finish in Philadelphia, winning mountain-top stages at Cascade, or being the stalwart lieutenant in defense of another team leader in races like the Tour de Langkawi, the Tour of Ireland and the Vuelta Mexico,” Team Type 1 Sport Director Ed Beamon said.

“I expect we will see him take on more of a leadership role next year. He has a better understanding of what to expect on the American racing scene and has already established his adeptness in international competition, so I anticipate a strong season from him. Without the distraction of Olympic preparation, we should be able to start him in more events next year as well.”

Beamon said he is excited to be able to provide Escuela with a strong team that will be committed to leading him out in field sprints.

“It's no secret that a weakness of ours this year was not having any depth in the sprint finishes,” Beamon said. “We are making moves to fill that void and Ricardo is a key addition. He has shown that he is capable of winning the bunch kick in criteriums, as well as hard selection-type races. He can also put himself in the breakaways where his finishing speed becomes that much more dangerous.”

In its first season as a professional team, Team Type 1 won 43 races and recorded 95 podium finishes. As one of the top stage racing teams in North America, Team Type 1 earned overall victories at the Vuelta Mexico and the Tour of Arkansas and team titles at the Vuelta Mexico and the Tour de Beauce.

“Although they do not have diabetes themselves, Moises and Ricardo not only give us two powerful competitive weapons as we enter 2009, but they also increase our ability to communicate this message to the Hispanic and Spanish speaking community in America that struggles with an increasing population affected by diabetes,” Beamon said.

Team Type 1 was created in 2004 by two racers with Type 1 diabetes, Phil Southerland and Joe Eldridge. The pair led the squad to back-to-back victories in the Race Across America (RAAM) in 2006 and 2007 before joining Fabio Calabria and Timothy Hargrave as the team’s four professional riders with Type 1 diabetes on the roster in 2008.

Interbike Outdoor Demo Days: Snap Judgments - Specialized's S-Works Tarmac SL2

2008-10-03T16:51:00.002-04:00

“Nothing is lighter and stiffer,” is Specialized's talking point when it comes to their S-Works Tarmac SL2.

After taking it out for a spin during Interbike's Outdoor Demo Days, I would tend to agree. But you don't really need me to tell you that as the likes of Tom Boonen, Stijn Devolder, and Tour de France polka-dot jersey winner, Bernhard Kohl, can better attest to the attributes of the Tarmac SL2.

In designing the S-Works Tarmac SL2, the folks over at Specialized basically threw out the kitchen sink. Once they had decided to build the lightest and stiffest bicycle on the market, they eliminated all their preconceived notions and standards.

They applied their "design, material choices, manufacturing methods and system integration without constraint. From the asymmetrical seat tube, to chain stays that feature a 30% larger cross section, to size specific seat stays, down tubes and top tubes, to pioneering the radical new FACT (Functional Advanced Composite Technology) IS (Integrated Structure) manufacturing method, their team of engineers, designers and material experts pursued every conceivable method to enhance the performance of the Tarmac SL2."

The result is the “holy grail” combination for a racer, a super light frame that doesn’t waste a bit of energy laterally when hammering out of the saddle.

Specialized used their top-of-the-line, superlight and strong 11r carbon, with their FACT IS construction and an oversized bottom bracket to produce a bicycle that looks fast just standing still.

The understated matte black finish of S-Works Tarmac SL2 certainly drew a lot of praise for its looks as I rode down to the test course. I was actually glad to see the Mavic R-Sys wheelset rather than any set of Zipp’s that seemed to be ubiquitous on many of the high end testers because that meant I would be able to get a better sense of the frameset rather than being buffered by a nice set of deep dish carbon wheels.

Besides the SRAM Red components, the rest of the set up was Specialized through and through including: the S-Works Pro-Set stem, S-Works SL FACT carbon handlebar, S-Works SL FACT carbon seatpost, and the Body Geometry Toupé saddle.

As with the other high end bicycles I tested that day, the S-Works Tarmac SL2 lived up to, if not surpassed, my expectations. I could tell you how stiff the frame was when I attempted to do some track-style jumps or how feather light it felt as I sat in the saddle while passing people on the climb back, but perhaps a better testament to its ride quality is that it spoiled all other subsequent rides.

CSC - Saxo Bank may have lost Cervelo as a bicycle sponsor for 2009, but their riders will all be smiles once they climb on S-Works Tarmac SL2.

The MSRP for the specific set up I rode is $7400.00 ($8500 for Dura-Ace). Though it may be out of most people's price range, its an investment that will give back in spades.

Photo: Leonard Basobas

On Tap...

2008-10-03T11:02:00.008-04:00

The USA Elite Track National Championships, which began on Wednesday, wrap up this weekend. The first two National Championship jerseys went to Taylor Phinney and Michael Blatchford, winners of the Kilo and 250-Meter Time Trial, respectively. Phinney, riding in his Garmin-Chipotle gear for perhaps the last time, beat the next closest competitor by more than 2 seconds. He is slated to ride for Astana’s U23 team in 2009.

Several more jerseys will be awarded today to both the men and women.

October 3 - Men: Individual pursuit, Sprint semifinal, final, Scratch race final; Women: Individual pursuit, Keirin, Scratch race final
October 4 - Men: Points race, Keirin; Women: Sprint
October 5 - Men: Madison, Team Sprint; Women: Points race, Team Sprint

The cyclocross season is now in full swing. Consult the listings below to find an event to watch or participate in this weekend.

10/04/2008
Omaha Cyclocross Weekend 1 and 2
Bellevue, NE
Cam-Rock Cyclocross
Cambridge, WI
Capcity Cross #4 Lobdell Reserve
Alexandria, OH
Team Fremont/SugarCRM Calavares TT
Sunol, CA Time Trial

10/05/2008
Ohio State Road Racing Championships
Waynesville, OH Road Race
Lightning Cross
Costa Mesa, CA
Leroy Township Cyclocross
Painesville, OH
Hudson Riverfront Cyclocross
Hudson, WI
Hopkins Cross
DeKalb, IL
Can't Wait Till Cross Starts Race #2
Winston Salem, NC
Sacramento Cyclocross-Vacaville
Sacramento, CA
Stony Creek CX
Shelby Twp, MI
WCA - Planet Bike Cyclocross Race #4
Delafield, WI

For results and photos of some of the races above, click through to Truesport.com.

Around the Bend
For those in the Chicagoland area, you have the opportunity to learn more about the "techniques of fueling for a successful cross season, including cooler weather hydration and fuel replacement during training, training and recovery nutrition, and nutrition race day preparation starting 24 hours before your start," from nationally recognized nutritionist Monique Ryan, MS, RD, LDN.

Monique has over twenty-four years of professional experience. She is founder of Personal Nutrition Designs, a nutrition consulting company based in the Chicago area. Started in 1992, Personal Nutrition Designs provides nutrition programs for diverse groups of people with an emphasis on long-term follow-up and support programming. Monique has developed thousands of nutrition plans for clients in the areas of sports nutrition, weight management, women's health, eating disorder recovery, various medical and health concerns, and disease prevention and wellness. She provides her clients with practical cutting edge nutrition information based on current scientific research.

High Octane Fuel For Cyclocross - Tuesday, October 7

For more races in the upcoming week, see below.

10/07/2008- 10/10/2008
Huntsman World Senior Games-ROAD
St George, UT Hill

10/11/2008
Java Johnny's - Lionhearts Cyclocross
Middletown, OH
Richmond Festival of Cross
Richmond, VA
Iron Cross Lite
Gardners, PA
San Jose Gran Prix-Ed Steffani Memorial
Hellyer Park, CA

10/12/2008
Urban Cyclocross Series
Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Bio Wheels/United Dairy Farmers UCI Cyclo Cross
Fairfield, OH
Psycho Cross 2008
Hawthorn Woods, IL

More from Interbike
Although it concluded a week ago, look out for more stories, reviews, photos and race write-ups from Interbike in the next few days. Enjoy the weekend!

Interbike Outdoor Demo Days: Snap Judgments - Colnago's CX-1

2008-10-02T15:00:00.000-04:00

The newest bicycle to the Colnago line is the CX-1. It was created to address the requests of "young racers who asked for an aggressive, ultra-modern frameset."

The structure of the CX-1 is based on a monocoque carbon fibre front triangle that is joined by a special bonding process to an assembled rear triangle. This frame is the top of Colnago's monocoque frames and is more closely positioned to the Extreme Power and Extreme-C rather than the CLX.

Like other bicycles in the Colnago line the CX-1 possesses a multi-shaped top tube. The unique design and polygonal profile of the top tube makes it very solid and strong. The flat surfaces on the bottom and top of the top tube provides extra stiffness while dispersing extraneous road vibrations. In addition, the shape of the rear chainstays and seat stays have been developed to optimize the overall torsional and lateral rigidity without adding extra weight to the frame.

With the CX-1, Colnago also introduces an all-new headset system, the C-HS (Colnago Headset System). This is a semi-integrated headset, one of the key points of the Colnago Revolution development project, that allows easier assembly and maintenance without removing the entire headset assembly. The C-HS also provides extra stability to the head tube.

During the development of the CX-1, 3D design and Finite Element Analysis (FEM) helped create an extremely accurate, optimized carbon fibre composite lay-up in the key zones where force is transmitted to the road.

The carbon fibre used in the CX-1 are in high modulus (HM) composite and high-strength (HR) unidirectional composite with a 3K twill finish. Colnago exclusively uses pre-preg Carbon Fibre Fabric that is specially selected using electronic scanning technology. This ensures that the fabric used will have the maximum resin dispersal to provide the lightest frame possible.

Although I have only participated in two Interbike Outdoor Demo Days, it seemed a rarity for a well established high end bicycle manufacturer, like Colnago, to have its bicycles available for testing. Needless to say, there wasn't much of a decision making process as to what to ride. I quickly strolled up to Colnago tent and was greeted by a full fleet of CX-1's.

The CX-1 is available in 8 sloping sizes and three different colors. Normally I ride a 52cm, but was quickly told to wait around for the 50cm although several 52's sat idly in their stands. The geometry is such that Colnago's 52 is more like riding a 54cm bicycle.

And once the 50 arrived and I climbed on, any skepticism or disappointment I may have felt for being "sized down" quickly flew out the proverbial window. It may have been sheer coincidence that the 50 fit me like a glove, but it probably had more to do with the product philosophy of Colnago, "It fits you, not you fit it;" the bicycle must adapt to the rider not the other way around.

After even surprising the folks at the Colnago tent on how good the bike actually fit, I headed out to the test course. The bicycle was fitted with an FSA OS-115 white stem, Colnago seat post, Selle Italia saddle, a Zipp 404 wheelset, and SRAM's Red components.

The ride left no doubt that CX-1 is a high performance frameset. The geometry and the set up begged me to get into the drops to hammer down the course. The frame was rigid enough in helping me fly up the climb, and in propelling me forward when I got out of the saddle to sprint. There really didn't seem to be any loss of energy in either instance.

The MSRP for the frameset is $3,499.00, which places it just above the CLX in order of price for the Colnago carbon line. That still may seem like a hefty price to some, but this is one bicycle that finally places Colnago high performance technology within reach.

Photos: Leonard Basobas

Interbike Outdoor Demo Days: Snap Judgments - Storck's Fascenario 0.7

2008-10-01T23:44:00.003-04:00

Boulder City, NV - The phrases "inspired by German engineering" or “see what German engineering can do for you,” have usually been reserved for those in the automotive industry. But in 1995, Markus Storck changed all that when he founded Storck Bicycles.

Based in Bad Camberg, Germany (but soon to move into a new headquarters in Idstein), Storck Bicycle quickly put the bicycle market on notice just a year after its launch when Bart Brentjens struck gold at the ’96 Summer Olympics on a Storck mountain bike. Since then the brand has enjoyed tremendous growth in Europe and is now gaining popularity in the US despite its high price point.

So how has a company the size of Storck Bicycle enjoyed so much success when the economy is suffering and the industry overall appears to be shrinking and consolidating?

Like most smallish companies, Storck Bicycle is focused on offering customers and dealers the best products possible. “Being small allows Storck to concentrate on delivering truly extraordinary quality and innovation – without compromise. Whereas other companies water-down their products to reach a broader audience, Storck bicycles are all created to set new standards in design and technology. Those who can afford a Storck ride with confidence knowing that they have the best product available.”

"Markus Storck was the first to develop, patent and introduce an all-carbon crankset (Powerarms) – all the way back in 1995. Storck was also the first to introduce an integrated headset. Storck holds numerous other patents, including the remarkable VVC process (Vacuum Void Control). Used by the aerospace industry for carbon fiber, the VVC process actually results in lighter and stronger carbon fiber. Other bike companies would love to get their hands on this technology.

Storck Bicycles are designed and manufactured to exceed all existing quality standards. It is understood that people who purchase this caliber of product expect it to last a very long time. This is why Storck Bicycle has its own EFBe testing machine – just one of seven in the entire world. This machine allows Storck to test frames for both stiffness and fatigue. Doing so allows Storck to create bikes that perform as well at 75,000 miles as they do at the first mile."

During Interbike, Storck made their bicycles, including one of their flagships, the Fascenario 0.7, available during Outdoor Demo Days. Having read numerous magazine reviews that deemed the 0.7 one of the lightest and most noteworthy bicycles produced, I wasn’t about to pass on the opportunity to take it out for a spin.

The 0.7 name refers to the frame weight, which start at 790g. "In a 2008 test, the 0.7 was rated the 2nd lightest and stiffest bike in the world (second only to the Storck 0.7 IS). It uses an ultra high-end 1K carbon weave and the VVC process. The result is a remarkably stiff and light bike, but also a very comfortable bike."

The 0.7 was kitted out with its “pro” build, which included the Storck custom Zipp 69 wheelset, Syntace seatpost, stem, and handlebars, Dura Ace components, a Selle Italia Flight saddle, and the 350g Stiletto Race SL carbon fork.

The ride quality was impeccably comfortable, but attentive. The 0.7 jumped forward when I asked and made climbing back up to the Outdoor Expo effortless. It was by far the best ride I tried out there, and everyone I went by who had likewise taken a spin on the 0.7 echoed a similar sentiment.

A typical 0.7 sells for approximately $10,000 with a “pro” build-kit. In this down turned economy, you would be hard pressed to justify buying one, unless of course you’re replacing your automobile for a greener alternative. If that’s the case, the ride quality and the sheer exhilaration that Storck’s Fascenario 0.7 will give you will probably have you wondering why you didn’t trade in your car earlier.

Storck bicycles may cost more than other brands, but those that ride it truly understand that you get what you pay for.

Photos: Leonard Basobas

All's Well That Ends Well

2008-10-01T23:11:00.004-04:00

Yesterday, we reported that Shelley Olds' (PROMAN Racing) BMC Track Master bicycle was stolen with US Track Nationals literally around the bend.

In a story that has enough twists to make William Shakespeare proud, Shelley's bicycle was recovered with a flat rear tire, but with no other noticeable damages.

Shelley had this to say before she headed down to the ADT Velodrome in Los Angeles,

"It was a long hard day yesterday and one that was extremely challenging for me both mentally and physically. But, I am up and running again today and heading down to L.A. in a few hours. I've got some built up anger to let out still, so I won't be holding back down there.

Once again, thanks to everyone that reached out to me, either just to say they were sorry or to offer their equipment, their kid's equipment, or to offer to go to all the local flea markets and scour them for my bike. I really couldn't have made it through the day without you all. Despite the darkness of the day, there was so much light shining in with everyone's support. I am honored to be a part of this amazing community [of cyclists]. I will not forget any of this. And I promise to race my tail off tomorrow in honor of all of you back home that have supported me unconditionally."

A bag of Shelley's equipment has still not been found.

Photo: Ken Conley

What's Olds is New

2008-09-30T16:15:00.001-04:00

The penultimate race of the USA Crits Series took place on the streets of San Francisco with the San Francisco Twilight Criterium on September 13th. For most, like women’s winner, Shelley Olds, it was the last big crit of the season.

In celebration of Shelley’s birthday today, and to bring a modicum of joy on what has ended up as a nightmare of a day, below is a firsthand account of perhaps the biggest victory in her short cycling career.

"The last big race of the season turned out to be a huge success for our PROMAN Racing Team. With most of the top teams in America represented, it was sure to be a fast and animated race.

The race started off with some serious hole-shot action as PROMAN’s cyclocross phenom, Rachel Lloyd (inset), quickly opened a gap on the rest of the field from the opening whistle. The field was forced to chase, which kept the race fast and strung out on the streets behind us. With Rachel off the front, the rest of us maintained position at the front, waiting for the counter. When Rachel was reeled back in, Megan launched a vicious attack that was so perfectly timed no one else could react. She opened another impressive gap and once again PROMAN was in control of the race.

A serious chase was instigated by the Aaron's, Webcor, and Cheerwine squads who wanted a piece of the action. When Megan was caught, Kat Carroll (Aaron’s Women’s Professional Cycling) tried to get away and I was on her wheel immediately. We didn't get far from the field this first time, but I could tell Kat was looking for a break and I was not going to let her go anywhere without me. A few more attacks came and went. Eventually, we had established a small break away just off the front of the main field. The break included my teammate Rachel and I, Karla Kinglsey (Easton), Chrissy Ruiter (ValueAct Capital), Laura Van Gilder (Cheerwine), Christine Thorburn (Webcor), and the aforementioned Kat Carroll.

It was a great break.

We started working together and driving the break hard to get away from the field. In the process, Rachel dropped back to the field, which ultimately benefited us. With two riders of the same team in a break, many of the teams back in the field (despite their representation in the break), sometimes feel obligated to chase. The next to go was Karla Kingsley. She was dropped from the group after a couple of accelerations by Kat, who was clearly looking for a solo break.

After Kat’s first attempt, the break dwindled down to 5 and she waited for the perfect moment to hit us again. When she did, there was no reaction from the break to chase. She opened up a gap that took her out of sight in less than a lap.

Pretty impressive.

Those of us remaining in the break looked at each other for a while before Christine Thorburn decided she was going to bring back Kat. Since it was in my best interest to bring her back as well, I started working with Christine, sharing pulls with her up the hardest parts of the course. I had to be careful though, because the two other riders in our break were incredibly strong as well and clearly sitting on, waiting for the right moment to attack Christine and I. Working together for about 3-4 laps helped bring down the gap and we could see Kat again in the distance. As we closed in on her up the climb, Christine hit it full throttle, giving Kat absolutely no chance of reintegrating with the break.

With about 8 laps to go and Aaron's no longer having a rider up the road, the chase was on. Kat’s teammate, Meredith Miller, got to the front and single-handedly brought us back with 4 laps to go. At this point, I was questioning my ability to win. Having been in the break all day I expected to be swarmed over on a counter from the field. However, luck was on my side as the powerhouse known as Christine Thorburn stayed right at the front and drilled it for 3 more laps. This kept me in perfect position with the field strung out behind us and no chance of a swarm and late attack by the field.

With one-to-go coming through the start/finish, Webcor's Karen Brem attacked with their sprinter Gina Grain on her wheel. They led through turn 1 and 2 and then the reaction came from Aaron's, who led out for Erica Allar. I was stuck on the Aaron's train and took the ride until halfway up the climb when Laura Van Gilder launched her final attack and bid for the line right to my left. I caught her wheel and buried myself to stay on it as she took me out of the final turn and into the closing 200m. With the headwind worst on the finish straightaway, I knew I should wait as long as I could and let her take me as far as possible. With maybe 100m to go I left her wheel and came around her for the win.

Megan finished up in the top 10 in 9th place overall, with Melodie not far behind in 14th. What a day for PROMAN all around. From the start to the finish, everyone did their part to bring home the win. Huge thanks to Tim, Lorraine, Tracey, Julia, Kristina, Eric, and Dario and Abby for being there to cheer us on and take care of us on and off the bike. I especially want to thank my man Rob and our manager Niki for doing an impeccable job on the radios. They kept me so focused the entire race and I don't think I could have done it without them. Thanks to Project Sport's Ryan Dawkins for the hard work, to Cyclist Village's Jim Fryer for the media attention, and to Richard Fries for kick ass commentary. Thanks to my teammates for racing their butts off and controlling the race to allow me to ride for the win."

Photos: Tim Brennan

National Team Rider Shelley Olds' Bike Stolen Two Days Before National Championships in Preparation for World Cup

2008-09-30T16:01:00.004-04:00

Grave misfortune has struck within the PROMAN Women’s Professional Cycling Team and UCI Professional Track Team. Shelley Olds discovered this morning that her bike was stolen from her car in Gilroy, California. Her car was parked in a driveway near the Eagle Creek Golf Course.

“I love that bike,” explained Olds, shaking her head in disbelief. “You work hard to get yourself set up on a bike, then you get used to it and grow to appreciate everything about it. It wouldn’t be quite the tragedy it is if not for Track National Championships just two days away. I don’t know yet what I’ll do. We hope to recover the bicycle and I am offering a reward”

Bike Specs (see above photo):

BMC Trackmaster
47cm Carbon frame
Cane Creek 50mm Carbon wheels
White Ritchey Syncros stem
38cm FSA Bars
Dura Ace 165mm cranks
Gold Izumi Chain

“This is especially painful since one of the most important races of Shelley’s career is just two days away,” explained Nicola Cranmer, General Manager of PROMAN Women’s Professional Cycling Team. “But it’s also a terrible misfortune because BMC had the frame flown in from Switzerland especially for Track Nationals and the UCI World Cups and all of our sponsors have been so generous in their support of our team, and our staff has worked so hard to get all of Shelley’s equipment dialed in and has maintained it so that it has worked flawlessly over the past two years.”

If you have any information on the whereabouts of Shelley’s bike, please contact Nicola Cranmer at 415.246.8791 or email. The team is happy to support efforts by the police to pursue perpetrators, but will also gladly recover the bike, no questions asked. A reward is being offered.

Photo: Ken Conley

Team Type 1’s Chadwick Ready For World Road Race

2008-09-28T11:01:00.001-04:00

Varese, Italy — Glen Chadwick will continue his already impressive season by representing Team Type 1 in Sunday’s World Road Race Championship in Varese, Italy.

The 161-mile (260 km) race will be streamed on Universalsports.com beginning at 6:50 a.m. EST/3:50 a.m. PST.

Chadwick said he is not sure what to expect in the prestigious one-day race that rewards the winner with the honor of wearing a rainbow-striped jersey for a year. He will ride in support of New Zealand national road champion Julian Dean.

“I think it will all depend on my recovery,” he said. “There will be no specific training involved – just rest and recovery.”

Chadwick has endured a roller-coaster ride of emotions this season. The highs include his participation in the Summer Olympics in Beijing, overall victory at the Vuelta Mexico earlier this month, two stage wins and the overall title at the Tour of Arkansas in May, the King of the Mountain title at the Tour de Beauce in June and a second King of the Mountaisn crown at the Tour of Utah in August.

Few could have imagined the 31-year-old would accomplish so much considering he was hospitalized for several weeks in February, suffering from Epstein-Barr virus in his spine. The illness causes mononucleosis and is potentially fatal.

If that wasn’t enough, Chadwick’s then-two-year-old daughter, Jade, contracted Staphylococcus virus in her spine last October and was in and out of the hospital until late December. Keeping the family afloat in this difficult time was Chadwick’s wife, Isabelle, who balanced a full-time job while sleeping most nights next to Jade or Glen in the hospital.

“It’s been a tough 12 months physically – and even more mentally,” Chadwick said. “Especially with my little girl being sick nearly 12 months ago. She's my absolute world and to go through what she had to deal with really pushed me on in Mexico. The final stage, the Scott-American Beef team really threw everything at me and when I was alone up front with them and they kept attacking me, I just kept telling myself that this was for Jade.”

Sunday’s 15-lap race on an up-and-down course includes two long climbs – something that will certainly favor Chadwick’s strengths, said New Zealand Coach Jacques Landry.

“The main job for Glen is to support Julian over the first four hours of the race, and ensure he gets all the drinks and nutrition he needs,” Landry said. “He did that job fantastically well in Beijing. From that point if he lasts then great, but Julian is quite capable of looking after himself from there.”

Photo: Courtesy Team Type 1

Colorado Premier Training Partners with CPP Leader in Aerodynamic Consulting and Wind Engineering

2008-09-24T10:02:00.003-04:00

Fort Collins, CO - Colorado Premier Training is proud to announce its partnership with CPP, wind engineer consultants, to bring the best aerodynamic services to sport.

Founded 27 years ago by the pioneers of their field, CPP is a world leader in understanding the effects of wind near the earth's surface. CPP maintains a staff of 95, including more than 35 scientists and engineers, 12 of whom hold PhDs.

“CPP delivers quality and professionalism in every aspect of their business and settles for nothing less than the best. We’re pleased that they recognize the expertise that Colorado Premier Training has to offer and we realize that to be the best at aerodynamic consulting we need to have the support staff at hand. The opportunity is priceless and this partnership will bring CPT’s aerodynamic consulting and wind tunnel testing to new heights,” state Steve Owens, CEO, Colorado Premier Training.

The collaboration of Colorado Premier Training’s world class coaching services and CPP’s advanced wind tunnel testing, computer simulations, and technical analyses creates a new level of aerodynamic expertise previously unavailable in the world of professional cycling.

"We are proud and excited to add our knowledge and resources to CPT’s internationally recognized expertise in cycling aerodynamics,” said Dr. Roy Denoon, Vice President of CPP and former national time trial champion and coach.

CPT wind tunnel testing services are available today. Please call CPT to schedule: (970) 672-4780.

The Late Professor JF Scott to be Inducted to Mountain Bike Hall of Fame at Interbike

2008-09-24T09:45:00.007-04:00

Las Vegas, Nevada - Bill Savage of Mountain Bike movie Klunkerz fame has put together a short tribute film for the late Prof. J.F. Scott's induction into the MTB Hall of Fame on Sept. 24th during InterBike. Professor Scott, or 'Finley' to his friends, was a fascinating man and a tireless advocate of all things cycling. "I hope you'll be able to attend so we may honor this amazing man who was taken from us far too soon," says Savage.

Way Ahead of His Time
To get an idea of how far ahead Prof. Scott was, take a look at the images below. The 'Cow-Trailing' bicycle drawing, completed in 1953, basically outlines the carbon fiber cross country bikes that wouldn't come along for another 40 years...and check out that parts spec! This illustration was found on his property by Vance Sprock of the Cupertino Bike Shop, after Finley's passing.

The second image is that of his 'Woodsie' bike, completed in 1953 while he was attending Reed College in Oregon. Flat bars, multiple gears, good breaks, fat-tires...it had all the elements that the pioneering KLUNKERZ of Marin County wouldn't discover for another 20 years.

First Mountain Bike Investor
Prof. Scott was also the first investor in the first mountain bike company in the world, cleverly called MountainBikes. "It's high-time John Finley Scott was inducted into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame," continues Savage, "I hope to see you at The Sands Expo Center, Casanova Room 503, on Wed. 8/24 at 6:00 pm for his induction along with the other deserving inductees."

Bikes for Kids Fundraising Events Raise $10,000 to Purchase Bikes for Children in Utah

2008-09-24T09:30:00.002-04:00

Derek Parra, sponsors and University of Utah and Brigham Young University cycling enthusiasts helped this non-profit achieve fundraising success with its Dinner Auction and Red vs. Blue Time Trial.

SALT LAKE CITY - Bikes for Kids Utah, a non-profit 501(C)3 organization that annually provides 1,000 new bicycles to underprivileged Utah children, today announced the combined fundraising efforts of its annual Dinner Auction and time trial event raised $10,000.

"Bikes for Kids Utah had, yet again, a successful year," said Debbie Reid, founder of Bikes for Kids Utah. "Whether it was through donating items for the auction, purchasing seats at the dinner or riding in the time trial up Traverse Ridge, we are so grateful to all the community members who came out and supported our efforts to provide new bikes for Utah children."

Bikes for Kids Utah Dinner Auction
The Bikes for Kids Utah Dinner Auction was held at La Caille on Wednesday, September 17. The fundraiser had dozens of items for the 180 guests to bid on, including a weekend getaway at Snowbird Resort, dinner and brunch at La Caille, a private bike ride with Eric Heiden and a session of speed skating at the Olympic Oval with Derek Parra.

Parra, the first-ever Mexican American to win a medal in the Olympic Winter Games, spoke at the Dinner Auction about the confidence cycling gave him to pursue skating and the positive influence it can be in the life of a child who has the opportunity to own a bike.

"Whether it is confidence on skates, or confidence on a bike, learning something new gives kids the opportunity to be challenged and have personal success," Parra said after he reflected on the confidence-building experiences he had on his bike as he was riding to his skating training sessions.

Parra continued, "I promised my daughter that I would buy her a new bike as soon as she learned to ride her first bike without the training wheels. The first time she got on that new bike, she rode it from Draper to Taylorsville without falling, a three hour ride. It really hit me that her first cycling experiences are preparing her to live a confident and successful life."

Red vs. Blue Time Trial
To raise funds for Bikes for Kids, close to 80 cycling club and team members, alumni and fans of Brigham Young University (BYU) and the University of Utah (Utah) gathered at Traverse Ridge for a three-mile hillclimb time trial with an elevation gain of more than 1,300 feet and 10 percent to 12 percent grades in some locations.

According to Millisecond Sports Timing, which averaged the top 10 speeds of each university's official cyclists, Utah cycling team won the team race with an average time of 18 minutes, 39 seconds. BYU's club followed with an average time of 20 minutes, 13 seconds.

However, when including the schools' fans and alumni in the average, BYU finished the race in 22 minutes, 4 seconds and Utah finished in 22 minutes, 21 seconds.

The Utah cycling team was awarded a $1,000 cash prize to help with its future racing efforts and BYU was awarded the O.C. Tanner Cup for the fastest overall time, including fans.

"As a cycling club, it was exciting to race against the team from the University of Utah," said Patrick Davis, president of the Y Cycling Club. "We even had tryouts to select the 10 fastest members for the race."

Joel Hsia, University of Utah cycling team president, was excited about his team's success and the cycling support the event generated.

"For the majority of the team members, it was their first time on the course," Hsia said. "It was great to have a change of scenery and exciting to race the BYU riders. This event really demonstrated the strength cycling has in Utah."

Michael Romero of the Bad Ass Coffee Co. racing team faced Traverse Road as confidently as he hopes the Bikes for Kids recipients will approach the opportunity to own a bike. "Hello hills!" Romero said to introduce himself to his cycling challenge for the day. "My name is Michael. I'm here to conquer you."

Romero started building his cycling confidence as a child. "I first learned how to ride on a bike that probably cost around 50 bucks," Romero said, "If I can give a kid a new bike, helmet and lock for that same price, I want to donate what I can to make that happen."

The next Bikes for Kids Utah event will be the annual bike giveaway scheduled to take place on May 30, 2009.

Schwinn and Toshiba Collaborate to Dramatically Alter the Electric Bike Market

2008-09-24T09:16:00.002-04:00

Worldwide collaboration between two of the most recognizable brands on the planet will allow riders to recharge their Schwinn Tailwind eBikes in 30 minutes through a standard electrical outlet, one-eighth (1/8th) the time of competing electric bikes (or less)

BETHEL, Conn. - Schwinn Bicycles, America's most recognized bicycle brand, today announced a strategic collaboration with Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO: 6502) that is expected to dramatically alter the electric bicycle landscape in the United States and around the world. Schwinn Bicycles is part of the Cannondale Sports Group Division of Dorel Industries (TSX: DII.B, DII.A).

Schwinn has incorporated Toshiba's new Super Charge ion Battery (SCiB) technology into the Schwinn Tailwind, a brand new electric bike to be formally unveiled today in Las Vegas to bicycle dealers attending the annual Interbike International Bicycle Expo, the largest bicycle trade industry event in North America. The Tailwind will also be showcased tonight from 6 to 9:30 p.m. (EDT) at the ShowStoppers media-only reception being held at the Millennium Hotel on Times Square in New York City at 44th and Broadway.

Toshiba's SCiB power technology will enable Tailwind owners to recharge their eBike in 30 minutes through a standard electrical outlet (or as little as five to seven minutes through a commercial charger). By comparison, it takes four hours or longer to fully recharge the battery of virtually any other eBike in use today through a standard electrical outlet, allowing riders to recharge their Tailwind eBike in one-eighth (1/8th) the time of other electric bikes.

In addition, Tailwind owners can expect to see an industry leading 2,000 recharge lifecycles with the eBike versus the industry standard of 1,000 charges before needing to replace the battery. Tailwind riders will find that they can ride 25 to 30 miles per charge (depending upon such factors as temperature, rider weight and terrain). The Tailwind also comes with a 20,000-mile or two-year limited warranty.

"We are very pleased to supply our first SCiB product to such a well-known and respected company as Schwinn Bicycles and its parent company, Dorel Industries," said Shoshi Kawatsu, General Manager, Super Charge Battery Div. of Toshiba's Transmission Distribution & Industrial System Company. "Schwinn is one of the most recognized bicycle brands in the world, and we are happy to provide Tailwind owners with our innovative SCiB technology."

The Growing Market for Electric Bikes
According to the Electric Bikes Worldwide Report, 2008 Update, 20.8 million eBikes were sold worldwide in 2007, a total expected to show only modest worldwide growth in 2009 to 21.6 million units. However, eBikes represent the fastest-growing bicycle category within the U.S., Europe and a number of other regions.

For example, U.S. eBike sales are projected to hit 220,000 units in 2009, a two-year increase of 83 percent from 2007 U.S. eBike sales of 120,000 units. Projections for Europe are even more robust, with eBike sales in Europe expected to hit 750,000 units in 2009 a three-fold increase versus 2007 sales of 250,000 eBikes in Europe.

Schwinn has six models currently available for purchase in its electric bicycle line, with the Tailwind expected to arrive in dealer stores in early 2009. Each Schwinn electric bike is a so-called eBike hybrid and can be ridden in either motor-assist mode or as a conventional bike. In addition, all Schwinn eBike models (including the Tailwind) utilize a removable battery pack built into stylishly designed rear bike rack systems, allowing riders to detach the battery for recharging.

"We believe the convergence of environmental concerns, economic factors and proven health benefits are making everyday bike-riding a reality for more and more Americans," said Bruno Maier, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Cannondale Sports Group. "Industry research and our own data tell us that electric bikes are a dramatically growing phenomenon within the U.S., and we intend to be a serious contender within the eBike category, particularly in this country.

"For this reason, we are honored to partner with Toshiba, a world leader in battery and power technology. We are confident that deploying Toshiba's breakthrough, fast-charging SCiB technology for the first time ever in our new Tailwind eBike will thrust Schwinn to the forefront of the electric bike marketplace."

With a suggested retail price of $3,199.99(US), the Schwinn Tailwind will arrive in dealer stores in early 2009 with four sizes for standard frames (S, M, L, XL) and three sizes for step-thru frames (S, M, L). For more information about the Tailwind, please visit www.electricschwinnbikes.com/tailwind or www.schwinnelectricbikes.com for more information about Schwinn's other eBike models.

Interbike 2008 Kicks Off with OutDoor Demo in Bootleg Canyon

2008-09-24T08:06:00.003-04:00

Retail attendees demo manufacturers' latest bikes and accessories on extensive trail network, BMX track and closed road loop

BOULDER CITY, Nevada - North American and International bicycle retailers visited Bootleg Canyon in Boulder City, Nevada Monday as part of the 2008 Interbike OutDoor Demo (the first day of the two-day event.) The OutDoor Demo kicked off a week-long trade show, conference and exposition full of cycling-related product demonstrations, launches, seminars, clinics, advocacy outreach and networking.

The Outdoor Demo's expo area includes more than 64,000 net-sold, square-feet of booth space and provides valuable interaction time for manufacturers with retailers and retailers with the product.

"Our booth was literally slammed all day with retailers specifically checking out our gravity bikes," said Chris Conroy, president of Yeti Cycles. "Because of the great shuttle services and the trails at Outdoor Demo, our retailers have a unique chance to test the heavy- duty downhill bikes that they would not at any other venue. I loved looking up throughout the day and seeing every one of our 60 demo bikes out on the trails."

Retailers from all over North America and several international retailers got the chance to test bikes and accessories before making crucial buying decisions for the upcoming year. This year, in addition to the new products and technology for mountain, road, BMX and recumbent bikes, retailers noticed a new focus on urban, commuter and electric bikes.

"In our store, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of requests for commuter and electric bikes this summer," said Richard Marquis, a retailer from Javelina Cycles in Phoenix, AR. "After spending a day at Demo, it is good to see that the exhibiting manufactures understand our need for urban style bikes that are not just targeted at enthusiast riders. Our staff had a very productive day demoing several bikes."

"The first day of OutDoor Demo was busier than last year," said Lance Camisasca, Interbike industry consultant. "We are very happy with how things are going so far and look forward to another busy day at the OutDoor Demo."

The OutDoor Demo was held in Bootleg Canyon on Monday and Tuesday, September 22-23 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The indoor portion of the show, the International Bicycle Expo, runs Wednesday through Friday, September 24-26 at the Sands Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Key sponsors of the 2008 Interbike OutDoor include:

Cervélo - Road Demo Loop Start House
Fox Racing Shox - Suspension Tuning Support
GUsports - Official Energy Gel
Hutchinson Tires - Tour of Lake Mead sponsor
Mavic - Road Demo Loop Tech Support
Park Tool - Rider Cooling Station
Pedro's - Bike Wash and Environmental Sustainability
PowerBar - Official Energy Food
Save Our Soles - Schwag Bag Contributor

For more information about Interbike, please visit www.interbike.com.

Photo: Leonard Basobas

Conant & Upshaw Withstand the Heat to Take Chicago Cyclocross Cup #1

2008-09-24T07:47:00.003-04:00

By Imelda March

Not exactly cross weather for Race #1 of the Chicago Cyclocross Cup; however, that did not stop 288 racers from coming to frolic in the warm, sunny and 73 Fahrenheit temperature day.

The race course did not disappoint as it kept experienced and amateurs alike on their “pedals” through a twisty, flat and fast cross course.

Elite Men
The boys from Evanston’s Pony Shop came out in full force and made it look easy out there. These guys will be the one to chase down in this years campaign. Together, the winner Brian Conant (Pony Shop) and Luca Lenzi (Pony Shop) managed to fend off 3rd place finisher Scott McLaughlin (Sram).

Elite Women
June Upshaw was conspicuously missing from this year’s road campaign and showed dominance in her first day out at Chicago’s season opener. She overtook 2nd place finisher Rebecca Much (xXx Racing AthletiCo) for the win followed by Holly Klug (Killjoy) in third place.

Prior to the race I caught up with June and she said, “I love this course”. With this you can surmise that she arrived early and studied every knick and cranny of the course.

Events abound in this year’s series, as the series continues with racing on Sunday, October 5 with round two of the Chicago Cyclo-cross Cup in DeKalb, Illinois. After the weekend of racing, nationally recognized nutritionist Monique Ryan, MS, RD, LDN will be presenting her HIGH OCTANE FUEL FOR CYCLOCROSS on Tuesday, October 7. Further information about the series can be found by visiting www.chicrosscup.com.

Photo: Amy Dykema

Team Type 1 Wins Overall And Team Title At Vuelta Mexico

2008-09-21T10:26:00.002-04:00

Mexico City, Mexico — Glen Chadwick won the Vuelta Mexico Saturday and Team Type 1 captured the team classification, earning the first-year squad two its most impressive accomplishments of the season.

Chadwick’s victory was his fifth of the year and the 40th overall for Team Type 1. The New Zealander never relinquished the lead after pulling on the leader’s yellow jersey after the second stage of the eight-day, 705-mile (1,136 km) race that has been a fixture on the international race calendar since 1948.

“I did not have big personal expectations coming to the Vuelta,” Chadwick said. “This is Moises' (Aldape's) national tour and I knew we had a strong team here to help him, so on the first stage I just took a chance and really went into the break to protect our team ambitions.

“It turned out to be the decisive move of the week, and Moises became my undying lieutenant. Sometimes you have to accept a little good luck."

Chadwick held onto a two-second advantage over Mexico’s Arquimedes Lam (Tecos-UAG all the way through Saturday’s final stage. Italian Ivan Fanelli (Cinelli-OPD) was third, 37 seconds behind.

Team Type 1 placed three riders in the top 15 – Chadwick, Ian MacGregor (13th) and Aldape (15th) – on the way to winning its second team classification at a stage race outside the United States. The squad also won the team title at the Tour de Beauce in Canada in June after finishing third as a team at the Tour de Georgia presented by AT&T in April.

“The Scott-American Beef and Tecos teams gave us a run all week,” Team Type 1 Sport Director Ed Beamon said. “Scott had an experienced ProTour team here with an excellent stage racing squad that was being led by a multiple tour stage winner. They threw down on us in a big way and the boys held up.”

Team Type 1’s other finishers were Valeriy Kobzarenko (63rd), Chris Jones (86th) and Fabio Calabria (93rd). Matt Wilson was lost to illness on the fourth stage.

Chadwick’s victory caps a season in which he also won two stages and the overall title at the Tour of Arkansas, was the King of the Mountain jersey winner at the Tour de Beauce and the Tour of Utah and he earned a spot on New Zealand’s Olympic and world road race championship teams.

Those accomplishments are remarkable considering the 31-year-old was hospitalized for several weeks in February after doctors discovered he had the Epstein-Barr virus in his spine. The virus causes mononucleosis and Chadwick apparently had been showing effects of the disease since last December without knowing it.

"I really want to thank the lads for their effort all week,” Chadwick said. “This is an incredible accomplishment for Team Type 1 and I think it proves we are one of the best teams in North America, and that's a message I hope everyone hears."

Team Type 1 was founded in 2004 by racers Phil Southerland and Joe Eldridge to inspire people living with diabetes to take a proactive approach to managing their health and overcoming obstacles often associated with the condition. Calabria is one of four riders on the team’s pro squad who have Type 1 diabetes.

“Diabetes is an epidemic disease in the Latin American population and it’s great we have this win as a platform to raise awareness for diabetes management,” Beamon said.

Photo: Courtesy Team Type 1

Team Type 1 Keeps Chadwick In Yellow In Mexico

2008-09-18T20:43:00.005-04:00

Morelia, Mexico — Glen Chadwick of Team Type 1 survived the toughest day of the Vuelta Mexico on Wednesday to hold onto the overall lead with three stages remaining.

The 93-mile (150 km) race included three categorized climbs, which shattered the 140-strong field and saw only 35 riders together at the finish in Morelia. Jose Benites (Scott-American Beef) won the sprint over Ivan Fanelli (Cinelli-OPD) and Ignazio Sarabia (Extremadura).

But the bigger story was the teamwork by Team Type 1 to get Chadwick to the finish unscathed, despite the loss of Matt Wilson to illness.

“The boys were under attack immediately and although Matt started, we knew we didn't have him today and there would be a good chance he would not finish,” Team Type 1 Sport Director Ed Beamon said.

Over the first climb, a four-man break slipped off the front, but Team Type 1 kept the gap within five minutes with Moises Aldape, Chris Jones and Valeriy Kobzarenko riding tempo. Three more riders bridged to the leaders on the second climb, but Chadwick’s lead remained safe.

“The guys kept the pressure on for the 25 kilometers of rolling into the final climb and then the Scott-American Beef guys came up to help,” Beamon said.

The torrid pace ripped apart what was left of the field and hauled back all but one of the seven leaders. The main field – now reduced to about three dozen – regrouped on the fast descent and Chadwick had survived another day in the yellow jersey. The New Zealand Olympian has held the race lead since the second day of the eight-stage, 749-mile (1,206 km) race.

Though not highlighted in the results, Beamon said the hard work put in by Team Type 1’s Fabio Calabria – the only rider with Type 1 diabetes in the race – has not gone unnoticed.

“At the end of the stage, Glen, Ian and Moises were in the front group and Fabio was in the next group with Jones and Kobzarenko behind,” Beamon said. “(At the finish) Ian said, ‘How about that Fabio, he's a warrior?’ and Chady said, ‘That guy needs to get a bonus . . . he was incredible today. Bringing us bottles all day, then he gets a flat and comes back to the front, and then he's drilling it on the descent before the final climb. What a hard guy!’”

Wednesday’s finish in Morelia was the site of two grenade attacks on Monday that ripped through the crowded center of the colonial town during a national holiday. Beamon said the city is now under heavy security.

“Military helicopters and federal troops with shouldered M-16s are cruising on the back of trucks and jeeps,” he said. “The irony is that this is the most beautiful city we have been in so far.”

Photo: Courtesy Team Type 1

Hundreds Turn Out To Meet Rock Racing At Harrods

2008-09-18T20:43:00.003-04:00

London — Rock Racing fans of all ages – and even Harrods Owner Mohammed Al-Fayed himself – turned out to meet the pro cycling team at a special engagement at the renowned store in the heart of London this past Monday.

Hundreds of people turned out at Harrods to meet Rock Racing’s six riders who competed in the Tour of Britain. Rahsaan Bahati, Santiago Botero, Tyler Hamilton, Victor Hugo Peña, Fred Rodriguez and Oscar Sevilla signed autographs and posed for pictures.

Fans also purchased official Rock Racing merchandise, including the team’s exclusive line of “London Rocks” green-and-gold uniforms.

Al-Fayed’s visit to Rock Racing’s special appearance and display area on the fifth floor was one of the highlights of the event – as was the presence Rock & Republic President Andrea Bernholtz. She greeted the team and congratulated them on their three top 10 finishes at the Tour of Britain.

Harrods will continue to carry the new line of Rock Racing “London Rocks” sports apparel for men, women and children through the month.

Photos: Vero Image