Newsletter Issue No. 1243
September 24, 2026
Should You Consider a 1X Drivetrain on Your Next Road Bike?
Jim’s Tech Talk
By Jim Langley
In case it’s a new term for you, “1X” is slang for a single-chainring drivetrain without a front derailleur and without front shifting, too. “2X” is slang for a double-chainring drivetrain with a front derailleur and with front shifting.
There aren’t that many to select from yet, but 1X road bikes are starting to become a thing. So I thought I’d try to get ahead of the trend and look at a couple of models to share how the 1X drivetrains I could find now compare to the traditional 2X drivetrains on the similar model from the same company. Read more.
Lessons From Two Weeks Cycling in the Alps
By Ric Stern
You’ll hopefully have noticed that my column has been missing for a few weeks (if you haven’t noticed, well, then I’m hugely upset and I will subject you to a series of 20 efforts of 30 seconds each at maximal effort with 5 minutes in between, followed by 200 push-ups!). I’ve been on vacation with Claire (my better half) and one of the athletes I coach (Ros) and her hubby. We’ve spent two weeks by Lake Annecy, France, near the town known as the “Venice of the Alps.” Read more.
Another Reason Why Coffee’s the Real McCoy
By Kevin Kolodziejski
While it may be the same enticing color as Gatorade’s Cool Blue, Powerade’s Mountain Blast, or BodyArmor’s Blueberry Raspberry, could you ever imagine filling up your water bottles with windshield wiper fluid? Read more.
After a crash, how do I regain corner-turning confidence?
Question: While training for a century, I was turning left onto a well-used road … and down in some loose gravel. Somehow, I broke my thumb, which required surgery, three pins, a cast and physical therapy. I’ve taken plenty of tumbles over more than sixty years of cycling, but this has really spooked me, and I find myself cornering with care bordering on paranoia. Is there a tried-and-true method to regain my confidence in the simple operation of turning a corner? —Dan B. Read more.
Quick Tip: Don’t Forget to Train the Logistics Side of Riding a Century
A century is not only a test of fitness. It is also a test of organization. You can have strong legs and still have a long day if your food, clothing, pacing, or equipment plan fails.
Use your long training rides as rehearsals. Eat the same foods you expect to use on event day. Learn how often you need to refill bottles. Find out whether your favorite bar is still appealing after four hours. Carry the tools, tubes, pump or inflator, and spare parts you plan to bring.
Practice clothing choices, too. A jacket that seems unnecessary at the start may be important on a long descent or in an afternoon storm. A chamois that is fine for two hours may not be fine for seven. It is better to learn that on a training ride than at mile 70 of the event.
Pacing belongs in the rehearsal as well. Start long rides a little easier than you think you should. Notice what happens when you push early. Learn how much energy you still have for the last hour.
By event day, you should not be experimenting with food, gear, or pacing. The more logistics you have tested, the more attention you can give to enjoying the ride. Leave a comment.
Other Cool Things to Read
PEZ Cycling News: Your wearable sensors have plenty of numbers, but how much can you trust them?
off.road.cc: Electronic shifting has its fans, but there’s something to be said for a bike that doesn’t need charging
BikeRadar: Built to carry a load and keep working, the new Buffalo bikes put everyday needs first
BikeRadar: After testing hundreds of bikes and products, what would these riders buy if they were starting again?
Question of the Week
Would you choose a single chainring on your road bike?
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End Notes
