Friday News And Views

The "Truck With No Name" got new shoes.

Not Sexy News About Car Repairs:

Ever since I blew out something in the exhaust system at the C.O.G. 100 on the "Truck With No Name", I've been pretty low key on travel. Well, it wasn't just the exhaust, but it also was the fact that my tires were shot. The fronts especially. It wasn't road worthy anymore, and it was going to take a stack-o-hundies to get me back on the road again.

Bad timing for me what with taxes due and all. But I had a plan. That included selling off the Ti Mukluk. I had to get enough funds to repair the truck. Well, the plan came through, and now I'm off and running once again.

So, for those who were wondering, my exhaust broke after the first catalytic converter at a flange where two bolts held things together. I guess that connection disintegrated and was hastened to its demise by my abusive driving in gross and extreme conditions the day before the C.O.G. 100. That wasn't much to fix, but it did set off a check engine light because there is an O2 sensor downstream of where the break was. The computer needed to be reset, so that was an expense. Of course, the tires, mounting, balancing, and old tire disposal was part of that as well.

All good to go now. So, future trips are a "GO" as for now and I'm glad to have this rig at my disposal once again.

Could this become a familiar site at gravel road races. Image courtesy of Mavic's website

Growing Pains In Gravel Racing:

If there is one thing any website based media likes it is controversial subject matter. (CLICK BAIT) Of course, websites exist mostly by virtue of advertiser dollars unless, like this blogspot, the owner is not motivated by profiteering. (That or I am plain stupid, you decide.) Anyway......

Cyclo Cross Magazine ran a story about some gravel races out East that had neutral support.

They, by their own admission, say that the initial Instagram posting generated "some good discussion", so by that measure, the story was successful. I'm sure the website numbers are stacking up from the article. Good for them.

But you know why it rankles people? Because "change", that's why. Look, it is no secret that road cycling has fallen on hard times. The rise of cell phone usage, distracted driving, the issue of doping in road racing, these things have all taken the interest out of riding road racing style bikes. The theory behind exploring back roads on more capable bikes that still offer the drop bar experience has taken root amongst riders and the events based around these ideals have prospered. Is it any wonder then that Pros, brands, marketing people, and racing teams are looking at "gravel based events" as a way to enjoin these people in their ways of doing things? No..... It is not a surprise to me, at any rate. Why wouldn't these companies, Pros, and teams come to their senses and join in the fun? I have no idea why they wouldn't.

So, you are going to get Pros visiting gravel events and racing in them. This "neutral support" thing is going to happen for those riders that are into such goofy things. Why on Earth it is considered worthy is beyond me other than to say it is easier. And we all know a LOT of people want to push the "easy button". Whatever. Their loss.......

Anyway, my advice is to not criticize this sort of thing, or pay any attention to it. Go do the events you would like to see prosper, and guess what? They will. Sit at home and bitch? Well, pretty soon the folks with all the money and power will get their way. Vote with your dollars, time, and participation. Well, that is if you give a rip one way or the other.

A former CX Pro is going to do an "Endless Gravel Summer" tour for Donnelly. Image courtesy of Donnelly.

Moar On This Changing Scene:

So, to further drive home my point, here is another example of a brand and a former Pro CX racer who have teamed up to go to a few of the top gravel events to promote gravel product from Donnelly and drive more folks to their brand. Is this a bad thing?

If you were the owner of a business like this, it is actually a smart move. Plus, Donnelly, (formerly Clement), has been on the forefront of gravel cycling for years. They are no "johnny come lately" brand. The product is well regarded by gravel riders all over and the brand is legit. So, those who don't know what they are talking about may graon when they see this, but as a business move, it is what you do. I get it.

I know it seems like everyone and their brother's sister is coming over to the gravel scene and trying to make hay. It actually seems true when you pay attention, but again- this is where the money is because people are spending it on this stuff. If gravel cycling wasn't a thing with a ton of folks, this wouldn't be happening, and I would just be some weirdo out on Burton Avenue grinding away on my Karate Monkey single speed yet. (Well......maybe I am a weirdo, but you get the picture.) So, if you are into gravel all-road cycling, look in the mirror when you feel like the "scene is getting ruined". Because you and a whole metric ton of other people that like this scene is why this stuff is happening. Take the people, and with that- the money- away, and this stuff becomes a moot point.

And That Isn't All:

In the coming days things will come to light that will further drive home that the whole gravel/all-road cycling scene has become a big deal. Changes. More changes......

Okay, so that's a wrap on this week. have a great weekend and ride those bicycles!