Newsletter Issue No. 1216

March 19, 2026

Lon Haldeman’s Cleats Tip for Curing Hot Foot Problems

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Jim’s Tech Talk

By Jim Langley

In recent newsletters we’ve mentioned ultradistance legend Lon Haldeman. We reviewed his new book Cycling Pioneer, A Record-Setting Ride from New York City to Los Angeles and Back . And we also shared an article written by Lon and RBR co-founder Coach Fred Matheny with tips on riding multi-day tours on e-Bikes. Read more.


Green Guru Bike Bags from Upcycled Materials – Quick Review

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By Sheri Rosenbaum

I came across Green Guru at the 2026 CABDA Show this past February. Their booth was decorated with colorful bike bags and backpacks made from upcycled materials. Since the cycling industry is one of the worst for contributing to landfills, it’s encouraging to see a brand working to be part of the solution, not the problem. Read more.


What does “Nothing hurts when riding a bike” mean?

Question: I’m relatively new to cycling, and I’ve heard a fellow rider say, “Nothing hurts when riding a bike.” That’s not my experience. What can he mean? —Jim J.

RBR’S STAN PURDUM REPLIES: Statements of that sort are usually made by riders who have been at it for a few years. They’ve gone through — and perhaps have forgotten — the “break-in” experience when most long rides yielded some sore points on their body. Read more.


Knee Pain in Cyclists

by Gabe Mirkin, M.D.

At some time, one out of three cyclists suffers serious knee pain. It often occurs with a new bike, upon returning to cycling after a long hiatus, or when you are trying to increase either your intensity or your mileage. If your knee starts to hurt while you are on your bike, stop riding and try to find out the cause. Read more.


Other Cool Things to Read

Bike Rumor: Portland Design Works Joins the Mini Electric Pump Game
Interesting Engineering: Scientists create bicycle-style robot that travels at high speed
ABC Australia: Electric bicycles are easy to modify, but hard to police
Island Packet: ‘There’s nothing else like it’: New bike-friendly trail underway on Hilton Head
Boing Boing: Bicycle gymnastics is a niche sport you didn’t know existed

Question of the Week

Have you ever had knee surgery or knee replacement?

Most Clicked Last Week

Quick Tip: Check Your Bicycle Tire Wear Indicators

End Notes

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