Newsletter Issue No. 1156
January 16, 2025
Have You Seen This Commuter Helmet?
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
I’m always on the lookout for interesting bike-related technology and I saw something the other day that has me wanting to learn more about it. Unfortunately, I only caught a glimpse of it on a teenager who was riding away from me as I was walking. I’ve looked around a bit online and found some similar technology, but have not found the same thing I saw yet. So, I thought I’d describe it here and maybe one of you will have a lead for me. Read more.
Race Online for Free through March with TrainingPeaks Virtual
By Lars Hundley
TrainingPeaks reached out to us to let us know that now that they’ve acquired the indieVelo online racing platform and renamed it TrainingPeaks Virtual, they are making it completely free, no credit card required, through March. (After March, it will be an additional feature of the TrainingPeaks Premium app, which costs $19.95 or $124 per year if you pay upfront — cheaper than Zwift.) Totally free through March seemed like a good reason to check it out, so I did. Here’s what it was like. Read more.
More Reasons to Say ‘No’ to Ultra-Processed Foods
By Kevin Kolodziejski
And One to Say ‘Yes’ to Added Sugars Sometimes
When I reached the base of a climb on solo rides feeling less than lighthearted and unquestionably heavy-legged years ago, I would sometimes do what’s now embarrassing to admit. In an attempt to both amuse and energize myself — but only if no homeowners were about — I’d shout out, “Scotty, we need more power!” Read more.
Dynamic Cyclist App Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
When the outdoor riding season kicks into full gear, I’ll be the first to admit that my priority isn’t strength training or post-ride stretching. After a cold, long winter in Chicago, I only want to ride my bike. However, neglecting strength and mobility training can lead to muscle imbalances and injuries, including IT band and knee pain. Cyclists are notorious for having weak hamstrings, glutes, and core muscles. Strengthening these muscles and keeping them strong year-round helps prevent injury and translates to being a more powerful cyclist. Read more.
How do I stay motivated to ride outdoors during colder months?
QUESTION: I live in an area where it gets cold, but most of the time, the roads are still safe to ride on. But the very thought of riding in the cold itself seems to sap my desire to even try. How do I stay motivated to ride outdoors during colder months? (P.S. I hate riding indoors on a trainer, so don’t even bother sending me there!) —Jon L.
RBR’S STAN PURDUM REPLIES: Many and probably most riders share this problem. I’ve heard self-motivation described as pulling yourself out of a swamp by your own hair! Read more.
Question of the Week
Do you have a mileage goal or other specific cycling goal this year?
Other Cool Things to Read
Bike Radar: A new cycling sub-culture has revolutionized my riding – Tile bagging
WCAX: Hitting the snowy trails of Stowe, Vermont on a Fatbike
Cycling Weekly: The Enhanced Games are an alternative Olympics where doping will be encouraged
Bicycle Retailer: A bike shop owner’s wild week in the LA fires
Most Clicked Last Week
Answering Rick’s CO2 Pump Question
End Notes
