Newsletter Issue No. 944
December 17, 2020
Is Cycling Good for 50 Year Olds?
By Coach John Hughes
Dick S writes, “I know I should get more exercise and lose weight. I tried jogging and it hurts and isn’t any fun. I’m an okay swimmer but it’s hard to make time to get to the pool. I’m embarrassed to go to the gym because I’m not in very good shape. Would riding a bike be good for me? Read more.
Outside the Box Hack #1 and Linda’s Crash
Jim’s Tech Talk
Jim Langley
This week, I’m running with an idea from retired engineer Will Haltiwanger who pounds the pavement in Columbia, South Carolina. A big RBR fan, Will asked if we have ever had a column featuring things that people have come up with to enhance their cycling that are “a bit outside the box.” Read more.
Building My Litespeed With Shimano Components: Part 3
By Rick Schultz
Last time we determined correct length of caliper mounting bolts and placed an order. To get everyone back up to speed, the bolts came in. Here’s how you calculate your chain length for a newly built bike that has never previously had a chain on it. Read more.
Can I Ride My Cyclocross Bike as a Road Bike?
QUESTION: I recently bought a Giant TCX cyclocross bike with tubeless tires. I really enjoy the bike and would like to ride it as a road bike as well. Is it better to buy another wheelset with 25s on it, or buy a new bike for the road? My TCX currently has 33s. – Jeff K Read more.
Vespertine NYC Reflective Gear Roundup
By Sheri Rosenbaum
I’m always excited when I discover women-owned businesses, especially when they are connected to cycling gear. Add in an eco-friendly element and I’m all over it. In the past, I’ve reviewed products from women-owned and run businesses like Jules Threads, Machines for Freedom, and GRACEDBYGRIT. I laud these women who have turned their passion for cycling into successful businesses. Read more.
12 Tips on Dressing for the Cold from a Coloradoan Cyclist
By Coach John Hughes
I live in Boulder, Colorado and ride year-round both for fun and fitness. I enjoy riding outdoors even when the temps are in the 20s. What do I wear? Read more.
Peak Design’s Mobile Smartphone Case, Accessories and Mounts Review
By Sheri Rosenbaum
The last time I tested/reviewed a Kickstarter product was back in October 2016 OORR’s Café Pro Women’s jersey and bibs. Normally I don’t review Kickstarter products, because they may never come to fruition. But when Peak Design’s PR firm approached RBR to take a look at their new Mobile product, I have to say I was more than a little intrigued by the concept. Read more.
Anti-Aging E-Book
Anti-Aging: 12 Ways You Can Slow the Aging Process by Coach John Hughes explains why intensity training is important and the pros and cons of gauging intensity using rate of perceived exertion, heart rate and power. It includes how to do intensity exercise and different intensity workouts. The book explains how to get the most benefit from your endurance rides. It has sample training plans to increase your annual riding miles and to build up to 25-, 50-, 100- and 200-mile rides. It integrates endurance and intensity training into an annual plan for optimal results. Anti-Aging: 12 Ways You Can Slow the Aging Process incorporates the latest research and is your comprehensive guide to continuing to ride well into your 80s and even your 90s.
Winterize Your Bicycle
By Jim Langley
Even though the winter weather is fairly tame here in Santa Cruz, California, I know that in a good many other locales nothing – not snow, or freezing rain, or iced-over pavement, or hurricane gusts that leave normally clogged roads car-free – will stop some roadies from getting their rides in during the winter. Read more.
Cold-Weather Exercise Tips
You feel cold most in your fingers, ears and toes. During World War II, gunners on the bombers complained bitterly about frozen hands, ears and toes. The Army Air Force added special insulation to their gloves, hats and boots, and they stopped complaining even though they still suffered frostbite on the skin of their necks and front of their chests. They had unzipped their jackets because they didn’t feel cold. Read more.
Question of the Week
When it’s very cold, which body part gives you the worst trouble on rides?
Other Cool Stuff to Read
Bicycle Retailer: New indoor pedal is compatible with 5 cleat platforms
USA Today: 5 bicyclists killed, 4 injured after truck hits group on ‘retirement ride’ in Nevada
Cycling Weekly: The king of Strava art is back with another amazing Christmas drawing
End Note
Getting a power meter? Instead of buying a single-sided model, spend the extra few dollars for a dual-sided so you can tell how much you are pushing with each leg.