Trans Iowa Stories: Five Minutes To Spare

 "Trans Iowa Stories" is an every Sunday post which helps tell the stories behind the event. You can check out other posts about this subject by going back to earlier Sunday posts on this blog. Thanks and enjoy! 

Well, what can I say? This one- Trans Iowa v11, it was the second shortest Trans Iowa ever. Only T.I.v2 was shorter in terms of miles covered by the riders. So, you'd think that there were not a whole lot of story lines coming out of this event. But of course, that is wrong thinking, because this particular Trans Iowa was so out of the ordinary that it stands out as being one of the 'best' Trans Iowa events for several reasons. 

Oh, yeah.....the event sucked, if all you look at are the results viewed through the lens of a traditional look at gravel events and Trans Iowa in particular. However; due to the very reasons that the event was 'ruined' we ended up with opportunities to see extraordinary acts, to have fellowship unseen, and some stories which would never have happened otherwise. 

Of course, it was an event dominated by an extreme Spring weather system which was unpredictable. The weather forecast was certainly not favorable, but it wasn't horrible either. The weathermen were calling for a quarter inch of rain throughout the day, grey, overcast skies, and winds out of the Southeast at a fairly good speed, but nothing we hadn't seen riders go through before. There were no real concerns about thunderstorms or lightning, and so I wasn't expecting a truncated event by any means. 

That didn't mean that I wasn't concerned. I was. Very. I felt that this would be a Trans Iowa with very few finishers. One that saw a lot of attrition throughout the event. I knew that we had several very difficult Level B Maintenance roads which would severely test the ability of the riders to make the checkpoint cut-offs. There was one going to Checkpoint #1, a doozy of a Level B, with no real rideable options when it got wet. Then there were two out of the gate from Checkpoint #1 which would also be difficult to walk through and would be two miles of time consuming drudgery in the muck. Add clean-up time and you are already in the hurt locker for time. But that wasn't all....

Tracks left in the Level B Road on the way to CP#1 during Trans Iowa v11. Image by Kevin Fox.

I knew that things cleared up and actually got fairly easy about halfway to Checkpoint #2, but not long before the checkpoint there would be three bad Level B Roads and if you did not have a lot of 'time in the bank' at that point, you were going to be short. Anyone on the rivet halfway to Checkpoint #2 was not going to make the cut-off. No way. 

So, before the event even got started, I knew that perhaps only a select few individuals would even make Checkpoint #2, let alone finish, and yes- there were more bad Level B's after Checkpoint #2. Would anyone be able to finish? Had we not seen the unforeseen weather, and it actually turned out as forecast, maybe one, two, maybe three people finish? It was going to be a lower number, a single digit total at best. Much like Trans Iowa v2, if you want to know. No one made the only cut-off time checkpoint that year, but that was early on into the gravel scene. Riders had more knowledge now, better equipped physically and mentally. There was a chance. 

Jason Boucher's image from Checkpoint #1 in Guernsey Iowa as Greg Gleason leaves as the last rider left in T.I.v11.

 So, when the weather went to Hell in a hand basket, well, that made things even worse. There was an intense situation developing since the weather now was putting everyone at risk. At risk of not only missing the Checkpoint #1 cut-off, but at risk of their very lives being lost. We waited at the checkpoint with the clock ticking down to the final minutes before the event would possibly end. It was surreal.

One guy made the first checkpoint with five minutes to spare. 

Five freaking minutes. 

Next: A Good Plan Goes Wrong

Trans Iowa Stories: Five Minutes To Spare

 "Trans Iowa Stories" is an every Sunday post which helps tell the stories behind the event. You can check out other posts about this subject by going back to earlier Sunday posts on this blog. Thanks and enjoy! 

Well, what can I say? This one- Trans Iowa v11, it was the second shortest Trans Iowa ever. Only T.I.v2 was shorter in terms of miles covered by the riders. So, you'd think that there were not a whole lot of story lines coming out of this event. But of course, that is wrong thinking, because this particular Trans Iowa was so out of the ordinary that it stands out as being one of the 'best' Trans Iowa events for several reasons. 

Oh, yeah.....the event sucked, if all you look at are the results viewed through the lens of a traditional look at gravel events and Trans Iowa in particular. However; due to the very reasons that the event was 'ruined' we ended up with opportunities to see extraordinary acts, to have fellowship unseen, and some stories which would never have happened otherwise. 

Of course, it was an event dominated by an extreme Spring weather system which was unpredictable. The weather forecast was certainly not favorable, but it wasn't horrible either. The weathermen were calling for a quarter inch of rain throughout the day, grey, overcast skies, and winds out of the Southeast at a fairly good speed, but nothing we hadn't seen riders go through before. There were no real concerns about thunderstorms or lightning, and so I wasn't expecting a truncated event by any means. 

That didn't mean that I wasn't concerned. I was. Very. I felt that this would be a Trans Iowa with very few finishers. One that saw a lot of attrition throughout the event. I knew that we had several very difficult Level B Maintenance roads which would severely test the ability of the riders to make the checkpoint cut-offs. There was one going to Checkpoint #1, a doozy of a Level B, with no real rideable options when it got wet. Then there were two out of the gate from Checkpoint #1 which would also be difficult to walk through and would be two miles of time consuming drudgery in the muck. Add clean-up time and you are already in the hurt locker for time. But that wasn't all....

Tracks left in the Level B Road on the way to CP#1 during Trans Iowa v11. Image by Kevin Fox.

I knew that things cleared up and actually got fairly easy about halfway to Checkpoint #2, but not long before the checkpoint there would be three bad Level B Roads and if you did not have a lot of 'time in the bank' at that point, you were going to be short. Anyone on the rivet halfway to Checkpoint #2 was not going to make the cut-off. No way. 

So, before the event even got started, I knew that perhaps only a select few individuals would even make Checkpoint #2, let alone finish, and yes- there were more bad Level B's after Checkpoint #2. Would anyone be able to finish? Had we not seen the unforeseen weather, and it actually turned out as forecast, maybe one, two, maybe three people finish? It was going to be a lower number, a single digit total at best. Much like Trans Iowa v2, if you want to know. No one made the only cut-off time checkpoint that year, but that was early on into the gravel scene. Riders had more knowledge now, better equipped physically and mentally. There was a chance. 

Jason Boucher's image from Checkpoint #1 in Guernsey Iowa as Greg Gleason leaves as the last rider left in T.I.v11.

 So, when the weather went to Hell in a hand basket, well, that made things even worse. There was an intense situation developing since the weather now was putting everyone at risk. At risk of not only missing the Checkpoint #1 cut-off, but at risk of their very lives being lost. We waited at the checkpoint with the clock ticking down to the final minutes before the event would possibly end. It was surreal.

One guy made the first checkpoint with five minutes to spare. 

Five freaking minutes. 

Next: A Good Plan Goes Wrong

A Discussion Concerning Types Of Geometry For 'Gravel' Bikes

The Raleigh Tamland series, circa 2014, set a standard for gravel geo.

 While writing up my ten year review of my Black Mountain Cycles "Monster Cross" frame and fork it occurred to me that a discussion of where we've been to where we are now in terms of geometry for 'gravel' bikes might be interesting. But first, I want to take a moment to say something I feel is very important here.

The term which ended up becoming the name of bikes that were not limited to riding on smooth pavement but were designed for any road ended up becoming something rather unfortunate. While I've mentioned this ad nauseam  here on my blog, I will risk saying it again- "Gravel Bikes" is absolutely wrong for this genre' of bicycle. It should never have been the term adopted for a bike that is possibly the most versatile style of bike made in the last half century. But there ya go. I cannot change that unfortunate term anymore than you can now. So, please understand that I do not endorse the term 'gravel bike', but for reasons of communicating simply and clearly, that is the term I will use. Okay, with that out of the way.......

As I stated in my BMC review linked above, in the late 00's and early years of the last decade, there were no 'gravel bikes' at all. What we were using were adopted bikes from other cycling genres. Bicycles meant for mountain biking, cyclo cross, randonnuering, and other types of bicycles were all used on gravel roads and still can be. This is very important to understand.  Any bicycle you can ride most likely could be ridden on a gravel road, but it may not work all that well, or be satisfying in the end. Nuff said there.....

The point I wanted to make is that early gravel events after 2005 were populated with a cornucopia of bicycle types, but mostly they shook out to be hard tail 29"ers and cyclo cross bikes. Elements of both were necessary to end up with the 'gravel bikes' we all enjoy today. The big tires and more relaxed geometry of 29"ers were matched up with the sensibilities of cyclo cross bikes, namely the drop bars and lighter weight frames, to come up with where we are today. Add a dash of early 20th Century road bike design and you are pretty much there. A bike that can go from pavement to single track with aplomb. Any road available becomes a road you could undertake a cycling adventure on.

Now to undertake the rest of the discussion I have a couple of visual aids to discuss. 

A diagram showing pertinent dimensions for a bicycle's geometry. (Image courtesy of Nicolai Bicycles)

The above diagram shows measurement points on a bicycle's frame which most bicycle nerds know as 'geometry'. Not the subject in school, but yeah- related. The angles and distances all matter. It's best not to focus on one thing, but to take things in a systemic way, because one change makes a difference everywhere else on a bicycle. 

That said, there are four main areas of concern when I look at a bicycle design. I take them as a whole, but each has a very dramatic effect upon handling, in my opinion. So, I list them off as follows and I will give the letter designation which you can cross reference to the diagram above for a visual aid. 

• Head Tube Angle (E), Fork Offset (L), and Fork Axle To Crown (K)
• Seat Tube Angle (F)
• Bottom Bracket Drop (G)
• Chain Stay Length - Actual (Hr) and Virtual (Hv)

Okay, breaking it down, the first bullet point can be called as a group, "Front End Geometry". This determines handling in corners, but for my money, this determines, not 100% but to a great degree, how my bike will handle rough, loose gravel and dirt roads. Next I listed the Seat Tube angle which is important as it relates to rider positioning in relationship to the crank set, but in conjunction with Bottom Bracket Drop and Chain Stay Length, it helps determine how stable or unstable a bike might feel like in loose gravel and dirt. Speaking of those things, the final two bullet points are very important. Bottom Bracket Drop also makes a bike feel more secure and stable, or it can be adjusted to make a bike feel more nimble and easier to loft over obstacles. Chain Stay Length helps determine down hill stability, climbing prowess, or it could help determine a bicycle's ability to loft the front wheel or clear luggage carriers like panniers, etc. 

So, as you can see, all are interrelated and changing one thing can affect another. Change the Axle to Crown length on a fork and that affects Bottom Bracket Drop, Seat Tube Angle, and Head Tube Angle. (Which is why you want to be very careful when choosing a fork for a bicycle.) That's just one example. But for this post, I am not going to get way into the weeds on geometry, but I am going to cut to the chase and talk about what does and does not work for me. 

A geometry chart for a Kinesis Tripster AT (Image courtesy of Kinesis)

Now keep in mind that a bicycle frame geometry changes with size, most often anyway, as you can see by checking the geometry chart above. So, when I say "what works for me" I am talking about a size 57cm-58cm frame, or in modern-day parlance, a "Size Large". If you are a smaller statured person, you should note that a different geometry will likely be something you'd prefer than what I do. That said, certain things can be said to be 'universal' in this discussion. 

What I look for immediately to know if I am interested in a design is Head Angle and Bottom Bracket drop. These are the two most frequently missed points on 'gravel bike' design, in my opinion. Get those 'wrong' and I will not look any deeper into your bike's design-  for me anyway. I like a Bottom Bracket Drop of at least 70mm and down as low as 75 (using tires from 40mm- 45mm) If your design incorporates a big tire, lets say a 50mm tire, then I can see going as low as 80mm, although then that pretty much excludes using certain sizes of tires and wheels. (I'll maybe talk about that in another post) 

Head Angle is the other thing. I maybe could go with a 72°, but only if everything else is compelling to me. I'd much rather see a 71.5°- 71° head angle and maybe even a 70° - 70.5° angle would be appealing if other front end measurements align with that to give me decent handling. So, yeah- I'm not saying I don't look at everything, but if you list a 68mm bottom bracket drop? Yeah, I'm turning the page. Got a 72.5° head angle? Same thing there. At least for me. Your mileage may vary. And on THAT point......

Here's the thing: I got what I wanted in most everything I could demand when Raleigh called me up and asked me "What would you do if you designed your own gravel bike?" My answer became pretty much what the Raleigh Tamland was in 2014. 71.5° head angle, 72.5mm bottom bracket drop, and everything else to go with that. One of the engineers on that Tamland project went on to form Noble Bikes, and the GX5, which I use as a test mule for RidingGravel.com, is basically a carbon Tamland. So, your 'new fangled design' has a pretty high bar to clear when it comes to what I like. And furthermore; a LOT of other people agreed with me. Tamlands were a huge hit when they came out, and that geometry, or geometry very close to that, is where a LOT of other companies landed when they came out with gravel bikes. So, it wasn't just what I ended up liking. Apparently it works for a lot of people. 

To my way of thinking, there are then three distinct types of geometry for bikes in this genre'. One being the "Cyclo Cross Derivative". These bikes typically have a higher bottom bracket- or 'less drop', than most. 70mm or less is typical. They also may have a steeper head angle, but not always. Shorter chain stays are also a hallmark of this sort of bike. 420mm is roundabout where you'll see these types of 'gravel bikes' landing at. Tire clearances will be limited many times to 45mm or less in width.

Then you have what I am calling "First Generation Geometry" which is what my Tamland has. Tire clearances up to 50mm, 430-435mm chain stays, 72°-73° seat tube angles along with what I mentioned above. 

Then you have what I am calling "MTB Influenced Geometry". This usually is typified by a slacker than 71.5° head angle, a deeper bottom bracket drop, a longer front/center, and short-ish chainstays. There are not many bikes like this, but probably the best example is the Evil Bikes "Chamois Hagar".

Again- this is far to brief a discussion to cover everything. There are people about to slam my comments with "Hey! What about "X" and "Y", or THIS BIKE, which has....." You get my drift. I get it. Exceptions. They exist all over. This post is a big generalization and overview. Not a specific "this is the way it is" discussion of 'gravel bike' geometry. It is also my opinion. Not the "Rule Of The Land", so take it for what it is. Just a friendly discussion about my views on geometry. (For a deeper dive into my thoughts about 'gravel' bikes design here is a post from 2013  This being pre-Tamland, but post my talking with Raleigh) Maybe you've got a favorite? Let me know. Got questions? Of course, hit me up in the comments. Want to know more about what I think about "X" or "Y"? Again, make a suggestion. I'll follow up with another post if warranted. 

And as always- Thank You for reading.

A Discussion Concerning Types Of Geometry For 'Gravel' Bikes

The Raleigh Tamland series, circa 2014, set a standard for gravel geo.

 While writing up my ten year review of my Black Mountain Cycles "Monster Cross" frame and fork it occurred to me that a discussion of where we've been to where we are now in terms of geometry for 'gravel' bikes might be interesting. But first, I want to take a moment to say something I feel is very important here.

The term which ended up becoming the name of bikes that were not limited to riding on smooth pavement but were designed for any road ended up becoming something rather unfortunate. While I've mentioned this ad nauseam  here on my blog, I will risk saying it again- "Gravel Bikes" is absolutely wrong for this genre' of bicycle. It should never have been the term adopted for a bike that is possibly the most versatile style of bike made in the last half century. But there ya go. I cannot change that unfortunate term anymore than you can now. So, please understand that I do not endorse the term 'gravel bike', but for reasons of communicating simply and clearly, that is the term I will use. Okay, with that out of the way.......

As I stated in my BMC review linked above, in the late 00's and early years of the last decade, there were no 'gravel bikes' at all. What we were using were adopted bikes from other cycling genres. Bicycles meant for mountain biking, cyclo cross, randonnuering, and other types of bicycles were all used on gravel roads and still can be. This is very important to understand.  Any bicycle you can ride most likely could be ridden on a gravel road, but it may not work all that well, or be satisfying in the end. Nuff said there.....

The point I wanted to make is that early gravel events after 2005 were populated with a cornucopia of bicycle types, but mostly they shook out to be hard tail 29"ers and cyclo cross bikes. Elements of both were necessary to end up with the 'gravel bikes' we all enjoy today. The big tires and more relaxed geometry of 29"ers were matched up with the sensibilities of cyclo cross bikes, namely the drop bars and lighter weight frames, to come up with where we are today. Add a dash of early 20th Century road bike design and you are pretty much there. A bike that can go from pavement to single track with aplomb. Any road available becomes a road you could undertake a cycling adventure on.

Now to undertake the rest of the discussion I have a couple of visual aids to discuss. 

A diagram showing pertinent dimensions for a bicycle's geometry. (Image courtesy of Nicolai Bicycles)

The above diagram shows measurement points on a bicycle's frame which most bicycle nerds know as 'geometry'. Not the subject in school, but yeah- related. The angles and distances all matter. It's best not to focus on one thing, but to take things in a systemic way, because one change makes a difference everywhere else on a bicycle. 

That said, there are four main areas of concern when I look at a bicycle design. I take them as a whole, but each has a very dramatic effect upon handling, in my opinion. So, I list them off as follows and I will give the letter designation which you can cross reference to the diagram above for a visual aid. 

• Head Tube Angle (E), Fork Offset (L), and Fork Axle To Crown (K)
• Seat Tube Angle (F)
• Bottom Bracket Drop (G)
• Chain Stay Length - Actual (Hr) and Virtual (Hv)

Okay, breaking it down, the first bullet point can be called as a group, "Front End Geometry". This determines handling in corners, but for my money, this determines, not 100% but to a great degree, how my bike will handle rough, loose gravel and dirt roads. Next I listed the Seat Tube angle which is important as it relates to rider positioning in relationship to the crank set, but in conjunction with Bottom Bracket Drop and Chain Stay Length, it helps determine how stable or unstable a bike might feel like in loose gravel and dirt. Speaking of those things, the final two bullet points are very important. Bottom Bracket Drop also makes a bike feel more secure and stable, or it can be adjusted to make a bike feel more nimble and easier to loft over obstacles. Chain Stay Length helps determine down hill stability, climbing prowess, or it could help determine a bicycle's ability to loft the front wheel or clear luggage carriers like panniers, etc. 

So, as you can see, all are interrelated and changing one thing can affect another. Change the Axle to Crown length on a fork and that affects Bottom Bracket Drop, Seat Tube Angle, and Head Tube Angle. (Which is why you want to be very careful when choosing a fork for a bicycle.) That's just one example. But for this post, I am not going to get way into the weeds on geometry, but I am going to cut to the chase and talk about what does and does not work for me. 

A geometry chart for a Kinesis Tripster AT (Image courtesy of Kinesis)

Now keep in mind that a bicycle frame geometry changes with size, most often anyway, as you can see by checking the geometry chart above. So, when I say "what works for me" I am talking about a size 57cm-58cm frame, or in modern-day parlance, a "Size Large". If you are a smaller statured person, you should note that a different geometry will likely be something you'd prefer than what I do. That said, certain things can be said to be 'universal' in this discussion. 

What I look for immediately to know if I am interested in a design is Head Angle and Bottom Bracket drop. These are the two most frequently missed points on 'gravel bike' design, in my opinion. Get those 'wrong' and I will not look any deeper into your bike's design-  for me anyway. I like a Bottom Bracket Drop of at least 70mm and down as low as 75 (using tires from 40mm- 45mm) If your design incorporates a big tire, lets say a 50mm tire, then I can see going as low as 80mm, although then that pretty much excludes using certain sizes of tires and wheels. (I'll maybe talk about that in another post) 

Head Angle is the other thing. I maybe could go with a 72°, but only if everything else is compelling to me. I'd much rather see a 71.5°- 71° head angle and maybe even a 70° - 70.5° angle would be appealing if other front end measurements align with that to give me decent handling. So, yeah- I'm not saying I don't look at everything, but if you list a 68mm bottom bracket drop? Yeah, I'm turning the page. Got a 72.5° head angle? Same thing there. At least for me. Your mileage may vary. And on THAT point......

Here's the thing: I got what I wanted in most everything I could demand when Raleigh called me up and asked me "What would you do if you designed your own gravel bike?" My answer became pretty much what the Raleigh Tamland was in 2014. 71.5° head angle, 72.5mm bottom bracket drop, and everything else to go with that. One of the engineers on that Tamland project went on to form Noble Bikes, and the GX5, which I use as a test mule for RidingGravel.com, is basically a carbon Tamland. So, your 'new fangled design' has a pretty high bar to clear when it comes to what I like. And furthermore; a LOT of other people agreed with me. Tamlands were a huge hit when they came out, and that geometry, or geometry very close to that, is where a LOT of other companies landed when they came out with gravel bikes. So, it wasn't just what I ended up liking. Apparently it works for a lot of people. 

To my way of thinking, there are then three distinct types of geometry for bikes in this genre'. One being the "Cyclo Cross Derivative". These bikes typically have a higher bottom bracket- or 'less drop', than most. 70mm or less is typical. They also may have a steeper head angle, but not always. Shorter chain stays are also a hallmark of this sort of bike. 420mm is roundabout where you'll see these types of 'gravel bikes' landing at. Tire clearances will be limited many times to 45mm or less in width.

Then you have what I am calling "First Generation Geometry" which is what my Tamland has. Tire clearances up to 50mm, 430-435mm chain stays, 72°-73° seat tube angles along with what I mentioned above. 

Then you have what I am calling "MTB Influenced Geometry". This usually is typified by a slacker than 71.5° head angle, a deeper bottom bracket drop, a longer front/center, and short-ish chainstays. There are not many bikes like this, but probably the best example is the Evil Bikes "Chamois Hagar".

Again- this is far to brief a discussion to cover everything. There are people about to slam my comments with "Hey! What about "X" and "Y", or THIS BIKE, which has....." You get my drift. I get it. Exceptions. They exist all over. This post is a big generalization and overview. Not a specific "this is the way it is" discussion of 'gravel bike' geometry. It is also my opinion. Not the "Rule Of The Land", so take it for what it is. Just a friendly discussion about my views on geometry. (For a deeper dive into my thoughts about 'gravel' bikes design here is a post from 2013  This being pre-Tamland, but post my talking with Raleigh) Maybe you've got a favorite? Let me know. Got questions? Of course, hit me up in the comments. Want to know more about what I think about "X" or "Y"? Again, make a suggestion. I'll follow up with another post if warranted. 

And as always- Thank You for reading.

Friday News And Views

The TIME Ciclo pedal was to be TIME's entry into the gravel segment.

SRAM Purchases TIME Pedal Business:

Toward the end of 2019 I was contacted by a marketing agency representing TIME and was asked if I wanted to try out a new pedal that they were going to market to gravel riders. It was an embargoed deal and I couldn't talk about it for awhile, but eventually in October of 2019 they announced it. In November I posted my first edition of a three part review on these pedals. The pedals were preproduction units. They were the same as production only these were built in house by TIME, not in their vendor's factory, as the production units were to be built. 

This resulted in my having gotten time in on the pedals before they became available in early 2020. However; TIME was in financial trouble at that point and production was spotty, at best. Some people got pedals, but many did not. To further complicate matters, a small cosmetic flaw was discovered which TIME claimed they wanted to rectify, which was the reason I was given that the pedals ceased to be available for a while. I was told to cease and desist from posting about the pedals. I'm guessing now that was an 'official company directive' to cover them until their financial/ownership issues had been rectified. Of course, then COVID-19 hit , big demand hit, and all that nonsense. So, it's taken until now to finally get things sorted. TIME's frame/fork business was purchased by another company, but curiously, the pedal business was still on the market. Well, last Monday a bombshell announcement revealed that SRAM had purchased that part of TIME. 

Comments: This is big. Shimano has had pedals since the dawn of time, (HA! Sorry!), and SRAM has not really had pedals to speak of. Sure, they did some flat pedals for a while, some Quark power meter meter pedals, and if memory serves, there were some SPD-like SRAM branded pedals for a bit, but for the most part, no.... SRAM now has TIME pedals and they are highly regarded by road cyclists and mountain bikers. Obviously, the gravel segment is covered as well with the Ciclo, which you'd have to believe is a pedal SRAM will want to ramp up production on sooner than later. 

 In a "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News" article about the SRAM/TIME story, it is said that SRAM will market the pedals as "Time Sport". This should put Time Sport pedals underneath a lot more riders in the future. While the story claims SRAM won't rebrand these pedals, I find it hard to believe that at some point they won't fold Time Sport into a SRAM branding. Especially when new models start to appear, and as the linked "BRAIN" article intimates, SRAM has a lot of in-house power meter technology, so a power meter pedal is probably coming soon. It would then make sense to have it communicate with SRAM's AXS technology, and be called "SRAM AXS Pedals", as a for instance. We'll see......
 

Media Conglomerate Forms- Aims To Be Your 'Outside' Ecosystem:

Also- while we're thinking about "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News", it was also reported on Monday that the industry specific media's parent company is now known as "Outside" since the company formerly known as "Pocket Outdoor Media" acquired "Outdoor" and several other entities within the active media realm. The formation of this conglomerate means that one corporation now controls a huge portion of your outdoor focused media and outdoor activities focused companies. 

In addition to "BRAIN" and "Outdoor Magazine" the new Outdoor company also owns "Peloton", "Velo News", and several other back packing, snow sports, and yoga based titles. Interestingly, "Outdoor" also now owns "AthleteReg", owner of "Bikereg.com", who also have partnered with USAC. You probably know "Bikereg.com" if you've attended gravel events. 

The CEO of 'Outdoor', Robin Thurston, had his vision for the media empire laid out in the press release sent out and published by all of 'Outdoor's' media outlets which said that, "Thurston's vision is to build what he calls the Amazon Prime of the active lifestyle: a connected, holistic ecosystem of resources — including content, experiences, utilities, community, commerce, education, and services — that can be customized for each active lifestyle enthusiast."

Comments: So, be aware that you may be playing with "The Man" as you go about reading about and doing outside activities. Come to think of it, can we even say 'outside' anymore without violating some trademark? Only half kidding there.......

Maybe you don't care, but I find it rather interesting that a very vocal segment of 'outside' loving gravel enthusiasts are carping on about the 'corporatization of gravel' and how events are 'too corporate' but maybe are not paying attention to what's happening 'in the room' here. Obviously anything 'outside' related is hot now. It only makes sense then that corporate entities are taking note and looking to become a player in the economics of 'outside' activities.  I say just be aware who you are handing over your dinero to. 

Iowa Gravel Series Announced; 

Unbelievably there has never been an Iowa based gravel events series. In fact, there was a dearth of Iowa based gravel events in any form until maybe three years ago. Now that all looks to be changing. 

With several new events on its calendar, the Iowa Gravel Series looks to become the first series of events under one banner in Iowa. The site doesn't give any indications that this is anything other than several events under one banner. For instance, there doesn't seem to be any carry-over for 'points' or any kind of overall series competition, but the series is noteworthy for being aimed at all riders of any skill level. The events are to be 100 milers, and are spread across the state from Northeast Iowa to Southwest Iowa. (NOTE: I did communicate with the series director eventually on Facebook and he said he is working these details out)

There are currently five events listed with four of them being brand new. They are "The Silver City Century, May 8th, the "Waukon One Hundred, June 19th, "Albia" on July 17th, and "Preparation Pisgah" on August 14th. An established event, the Glenwood Gravel event, also has joined up and will happen on September 18th.

The events are going to have GPX files for riders to navigate by and it is claimed that the routes will be "clearly marked" as well. NOTE: I saw nothing about any COVID-19 protocols, so please be aware of that situation and do your research if you are interested in attending these events. NOTE: I have no affiliation with these events. I retired from event productions at the end of 2020. Any questions should not be asked of me concerning these events. I am just passing on the info.  

Comments: Okay, it's about time someone stepped up to the plate and did a series. Also, NEW EVENTS! How cool is that? This should start to give Iowa a reputation for great gravel routes and opportunities. I LOVE that one of their events is out of Waukon, an area I am quite familiar with having run Trans Iowa through there. If you attend that one, get yer climbing gears on! 

I heard through an acquaintance  that more current Iowa events were asked to join the series but declined due to their opinion that the series did not enhance their events. That said, I wouldn't be surprised to see more events added in the future. I do not know the series director, but it is apparent that he is aggressively moving forward with plans to make this a thing in Iowa.

A little disappointed in that there is no nod to our pandemic which is ongoing. While things 'look better', we ain't outta the woods yet, and by seemingly ignoring this, I think it is a bad thing for the series. Hopefully that gets rectified, but otherwise I am glad to see this being rolled out. I hope that the events live up to the high standards that previous Iowa gravel events have pioneered.  

Salsa Cycles Timberjack XT Image courtesy of Salsa Cycles

Salsa Cycles Debuts '21 Model Year Timberjacks:

Salsa Cycles on Thursday introduced their new range of Timberjack mountain bikes. This is a new design from the ground up, longer wheel base, slacker head angle, a bit lower in the bottom bracket. So, right in the hardtail-du-jour soup for mountain bikes. 

Mountain bikes used to be a thing that helped you traverse all-terrain. They used to be a bike type that could be best said to have been an all-around bike for anything single track anywhere. But specialty segments broke off that- down hill, enduro, and XC racing to name but a few. The hard tail bike is, kind of, the remnant of that original exploration/touring type of mountain bike that kicked off the genre in the late 70's/early 80's. 

But even these hard tails, as exemplified by the current Timberjack, have evolved to become mostly groomed trail, down hill specialists. That's what seems to sell, so that is what people get. In many ways, bike packing bikes like the Tumbleweed Prospector or a Jones Bikes model (pick any one of them) is more akin to the original spirit of mountain biking than the Timberjack is, and they handle all-terrains reasonably well. Unlike a bike like the Timberjack, and its ilk, which are not all that great where I live, as a for instance. 

A Breezer Lightning, circa 2013.

I tested a Breezer once back in around 2013, I think it was, and that bike was a single track ripper! Sure, it wouldn't do what a Timberjack is capable of on a bermed-out, downhill trail, but it could kill a Timberjack in the Mid-West on single track. Plus, it was an easy bike to climb on, and didn't require loads of steering corrections while doing so. That's a bike type that is sorely missing, in my view, from today's offerings. 

But Salsa Cycles biggest customer is REI co-op, and they buy the lion's share of Fargos, Timberjacks, and other more lower to mid-priced Salsa bikes in the range. They want a bike that has appeal which consumers will part with their dollars for and this is the type of riding more people are attracted to now- the more gravity oriented, groomed trails type riding, and so who is wrong? Not Salsa, not REI. They are just giving the market what it wants to part with their dollars, so I get it. 

The market is in love with this idea, the marketers are all about fulfilling and stoking that idea, and maybe some day things will swing back the other way and we'll think bikes like the Timberjack were really goofy, just as we do when we look at the "NORBA hard tails" from the 90's. (The other extreme, in my mind) Or not....... Who knows? 

I have heard through the grapevine that numbers on new 2021 Salsa bikes available are really limited. It was rumored online that REI received most of the Fargo allotment and Larges and Mediums are sold out already. In February! So, I wouldn't be surprised at all to hear that a Timebrjack is as rare as a hen's tooth and that many people will be scrambling to find one. To be fair, most any 2021 model year bike will be really hard to find. 

It's going to be another one of those years............
 
 That's a wrap for this week. Looking forward to better weather soon, but get out there if you can.

Friday News And Views

The TIME Ciclo pedal was to be TIME's entry into the gravel segment.

SRAM Purchases TIME Pedal Business:

Toward the end of 2019 I was contacted by a marketing agency representing TIME and was asked if I wanted to try out a new pedal that they were going to market to gravel riders. It was an embargoed deal and I couldn't talk about it for awhile, but eventually in October of 2019 they announced it. In November I posted my first edition of a three part review on these pedals. The pedals were preproduction units. They were the same as production only these were built in house by TIME, not in their vendor's factory, as the production units were to be built. 

This resulted in my having gotten time in on the pedals before they became available in early 2020. However; TIME was in financial trouble at that point and production was spotty, at best. Some people got pedals, but many did not. To further complicate matters, a small cosmetic flaw was discovered which TIME claimed they wanted to rectify, which was the reason I was given that the pedals ceased to be available for a while. I was told to cease and desist from posting about the pedals. I'm guessing now that was an 'official company directive' to cover them until their financial/ownership issues had been rectified. Of course, then COVID-19 hit , big demand hit, and all that nonsense. So, it's taken until now to finally get things sorted. TIME's frame/fork business was purchased by another company, but curiously, the pedal business was still on the market. Well, last Monday a bombshell announcement revealed that SRAM had purchased that part of TIME. 

Comments: This is big. Shimano has had pedals since the dawn of time, (HA! Sorry!), and SRAM has not really had pedals to speak of. Sure, they did some flat pedals for a while, some Quark power meter meter pedals, and if memory serves, there were some SPD-like SRAM branded pedals for a bit, but for the most part, no.... SRAM now has TIME pedals and they are highly regarded by road cyclists and mountain bikers. Obviously, the gravel segment is covered as well with the Ciclo, which you'd have to believe is a pedal SRAM will want to ramp up production on sooner than later. 

 In a "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News" article about the SRAM/TIME story, it is said that SRAM will market the pedals as "Time Sport". This should put Time Sport pedals underneath a lot more riders in the future. While the story claims SRAM won't rebrand these pedals, I find it hard to believe that at some point they won't fold Time Sport into a SRAM branding. Especially when new models start to appear, and as the linked "BRAIN" article intimates, SRAM has a lot of in-house power meter technology, so a power meter pedal is probably coming soon. It would then make sense to have it communicate with SRAM's AXS technology, and be called "SRAM AXS Pedals", as a for instance. We'll see......
 

Media Conglomerate Forms- Aims To Be Your 'Outside' Ecosystem:

Also- while we're thinking about "Bicycle Retailer and Industry News", it was also reported on Monday that the industry specific media's parent company is now known as "Outside" since the company formerly known as "Pocket Outdoor Media" acquired "Outdoor" and several other entities within the active media realm. The formation of this conglomerate means that one corporation now controls a huge portion of your outdoor focused media and outdoor activities focused companies. 

In addition to "BRAIN" and "Outdoor Magazine" the new Outdoor company also owns "Peloton", "Velo News", and several other back packing, snow sports, and yoga based titles. Interestingly, "Outdoor" also now owns "AthleteReg", owner of "Bikereg.com", who also have partnered with USAC. You probably know "Bikereg.com" if you've attended gravel events. 

The CEO of 'Outdoor', Robin Thurston, had his vision for the media empire laid out in the press release sent out and published by all of 'Outdoor's' media outlets which said that, "Thurston's vision is to build what he calls the Amazon Prime of the active lifestyle: a connected, holistic ecosystem of resources — including content, experiences, utilities, community, commerce, education, and services — that can be customized for each active lifestyle enthusiast."

Comments: So, be aware that you may be playing with "The Man" as you go about reading about and doing outside activities. Come to think of it, can we even say 'outside' anymore without violating some trademark? Only half kidding there.......

Maybe you don't care, but I find it rather interesting that a very vocal segment of 'outside' loving gravel enthusiasts are carping on about the 'corporatization of gravel' and how events are 'too corporate' but maybe are not paying attention to what's happening 'in the room' here. Obviously anything 'outside' related is hot now. It only makes sense then that corporate entities are taking note and looking to become a player in the economics of 'outside' activities.  I say just be aware who you are handing over your dinero to. 

Iowa Gravel Series Announced; 

Unbelievably there has never been an Iowa based gravel events series. In fact, there was a dearth of Iowa based gravel events in any form until maybe three years ago. Now that all looks to be changing. 

With several new events on its calendar, the Iowa Gravel Series looks to become the first series of events under one banner in Iowa. The site doesn't give any indications that this is anything other than several events under one banner. For instance, there doesn't seem to be any carry-over for 'points' or any kind of overall series competition, but the series is noteworthy for being aimed at all riders of any skill level. The events are to be 100 milers, and are spread across the state from Northeast Iowa to Southwest Iowa. (NOTE: I did communicate with the series director eventually on Facebook and he said he is working these details out)

There are currently five events listed with four of them being brand new. They are "The Silver City Century, May 8th, the "Waukon One Hundred, June 19th, "Albia" on July 17th, and "Preparation Pisgah" on August 14th. An established event, the Glenwood Gravel event, also has joined up and will happen on September 18th.

The events are going to have GPX files for riders to navigate by and it is claimed that the routes will be "clearly marked" as well. NOTE: I saw nothing about any COVID-19 protocols, so please be aware of that situation and do your research if you are interested in attending these events. NOTE: I have no affiliation with these events. I retired from event productions at the end of 2020. Any questions should not be asked of me concerning these events. I am just passing on the info.  

Comments: Okay, it's about time someone stepped up to the plate and did a series. Also, NEW EVENTS! How cool is that? This should start to give Iowa a reputation for great gravel routes and opportunities. I LOVE that one of their events is out of Waukon, an area I am quite familiar with having run Trans Iowa through there. If you attend that one, get yer climbing gears on! 

I heard through an acquaintance  that more current Iowa events were asked to join the series but declined due to their opinion that the series did not enhance their events. That said, I wouldn't be surprised to see more events added in the future. I do not know the series director, but it is apparent that he is aggressively moving forward with plans to make this a thing in Iowa.

A little disappointed in that there is no nod to our pandemic which is ongoing. While things 'look better', we ain't outta the woods yet, and by seemingly ignoring this, I think it is a bad thing for the series. Hopefully that gets rectified, but otherwise I am glad to see this being rolled out. I hope that the events live up to the high standards that previous Iowa gravel events have pioneered.  

Salsa Cycles Timberjack XT Image courtesy of Salsa Cycles

Salsa Cycles Debuts '21 Model Year Timberjacks:

Salsa Cycles on Thursday introduced their new range of Timberjack mountain bikes. This is a new design from the ground up, longer wheel base, slacker head angle, a bit lower in the bottom bracket. So, right in the hardtail-du-jour soup for mountain bikes. 

Mountain bikes used to be a thing that helped you traverse all-terrain. They used to be a bike type that could be best said to have been an all-around bike for anything single track anywhere. But specialty segments broke off that- down hill, enduro, and XC racing to name but a few. The hard tail bike is, kind of, the remnant of that original exploration/touring type of mountain bike that kicked off the genre in the late 70's/early 80's. 

But even these hard tails, as exemplified by the current Timberjack, have evolved to become mostly groomed trail, down hill specialists. That's what seems to sell, so that is what people get. In many ways, bike packing bikes like the Tumbleweed Prospector or a Jones Bikes model (pick any one of them) is more akin to the original spirit of mountain biking than the Timberjack is, and they handle all-terrains reasonably well. Unlike a bike like the Timberjack, and its ilk, which are not all that great where I live, as a for instance. 

A Breezer Lightning, circa 2013.

I tested a Breezer once back in around 2013, I think it was, and that bike was a single track ripper! Sure, it wouldn't do what a Timberjack is capable of on a bermed-out, downhill trail, but it could kill a Timberjack in the Mid-West on single track. Plus, it was an easy bike to climb on, and didn't require loads of steering corrections while doing so. That's a bike type that is sorely missing, in my view, from today's offerings. 

But Salsa Cycles biggest customer is REI co-op, and they buy the lion's share of Fargos, Timberjacks, and other more lower to mid-priced Salsa bikes in the range. They want a bike that has appeal which consumers will part with their dollars for and this is the type of riding more people are attracted to now- the more gravity oriented, groomed trails type riding, and so who is wrong? Not Salsa, not REI. They are just giving the market what it wants to part with their dollars, so I get it. 

The market is in love with this idea, the marketers are all about fulfilling and stoking that idea, and maybe some day things will swing back the other way and we'll think bikes like the Timberjack were really goofy, just as we do when we look at the "NORBA hard tails" from the 90's. (The other extreme, in my mind) Or not....... Who knows? 

I have heard through the grapevine that numbers on new 2021 Salsa bikes available are really limited. It was rumored online that REI received most of the Fargo allotment and Larges and Mediums are sold out already. In February! So, I wouldn't be surprised at all to hear that a Timebrjack is as rare as a hen's tooth and that many people will be scrambling to find one. To be fair, most any 2021 model year bike will be really hard to find. 

It's going to be another one of those years............
 
 That's a wrap for this week. Looking forward to better weather soon, but get out there if you can.

Well, That Was Fun!

The first day above 32°F happened on Monday of this week and we are to be well above freezing for several days now. With the Sun riding high in the sky now, and longer days on tap, it won't be long before we are done fat biking in the snow. Maybe even now the trails are too far gone for it. It was fun while it lasted. 

The only thing I regret is that for about two weeks straight fat biking conditions were primo but the temperatures were beastly. And many of those days it was just far too windy to cope. I even had to break out my ATV pogies for that time as it was too good not to go out but too windy not to have pogies. 

Side note: These cheapo ATV pogies, (purchased at a local Farm & Fleet store for around 20 bucks) are perfect for Jones Bars. Plus, they go up to about your elbows. I like that when the conditions call for that. They are also super easy to take off and put back on again, require no fancy end plug gizmos, and have internal chemical heat pockets in case you are insane and want to ride in an apocalyptic snow storm or something. Anyway......

So, yeah, what fat biking on snow I got to do was fantastic and the fat bike season of 2020/2021 was pretty top notch, I'd say. The snow actually was of the variety that it had consistency, not the generally 'sandy' type snow which we get a lot of here anymore that makes riding on snow impossible no matter how wide the tires are. I liken that type of snow to hour glass sand. Super fine, granular, and will not hold together for anything. Basically worthless for fat biking on. Fortunately this season had none of that type of snow at all. 

But now we are watching that snow we did get turn to water and drain away. It is now full-on "Slop Season". That period of time between good, rideable snow and dry-ish roads and trails leading into Spring. A messy, ugly time where getting on the road, or as in my case, gravel road, is often difficult due to refrozen run-off, sand from road treatment, and soft roads in the country. But I am armed with fenders and wider tires. 

Bring it on!

Well, That Was Fun!

The first day above 32°F happened on Monday of this week and we are to be well above freezing for several days now. With the Sun riding high in the sky now, and longer days on tap, it won't be long before we are done fat biking in the snow. Maybe even now the trails are too far gone for it. It was fun while it lasted. 

The only thing I regret is that for about two weeks straight fat biking conditions were primo but the temperatures were beastly. And many of those days it was just far too windy to cope. I even had to break out my ATV pogies for that time as it was too good not to go out but too windy not to have pogies. 

Side note: These cheapo ATV pogies, (purchased at a local Farm & Fleet store for around 20 bucks) are perfect for Jones Bars. Plus, they go up to about your elbows. I like that when the conditions call for that. They are also super easy to take off and put back on again, require no fancy end plug gizmos, and have internal chemical heat pockets in case you are insane and want to ride in an apocalyptic snow storm or something. Anyway......

So, yeah, what fat biking on snow I got to do was fantastic and the fat bike season of 2020/2021 was pretty top notch, I'd say. The snow actually was of the variety that it had consistency, not the generally 'sandy' type snow which we get a lot of here anymore that makes riding on snow impossible no matter how wide the tires are. I liken that type of snow to hour glass sand. Super fine, granular, and will not hold together for anything. Basically worthless for fat biking on. Fortunately this season had none of that type of snow at all. 

But now we are watching that snow we did get turn to water and drain away. It is now full-on "Slop Season". That period of time between good, rideable snow and dry-ish roads and trails leading into Spring. A messy, ugly time where getting on the road, or as in my case, gravel road, is often difficult due to refrozen run-off, sand from road treatment, and soft roads in the country. But I am armed with fenders and wider tires. 

Bring it on!

B.O.G. Series; Why Ride Gravel?

 Welcome to the Basics of Gravel Series (B.O.G.)! In this series I will attempt to bring a very foundational knowledge of gravel and back road riding to anyone reading that may be curious or a beginner in riding off-pavement, but not wanting to be mountain biking. There will be a new entry every Wednesday until the series is complete. To see the schedule, click this LINK. Thanks! 

This is gravel.

Why Ride Gravel?

With miles and miles of smooth, paved roads, why would anyone want to ride on gravel? It's dirty, dusty, rough, and uncomfortable. All these things are true. Pavement is a lot faster, smoother, and more fun- IF you aren't getting buzzed by speeding cars, afraid for your life, or getting abused in other ways like getting yelled at, having things thrown at you, or getting 'coal rolled' by some numbskull in a diesel truck. 

Maybe you are just tired of the attitude on the local group ride. Maybe the urban bike trails are getting boring. Perhaps you are in need of a new challenge. If any of that is you, there are a ton of gravel roads waiting for you. 

I used to ride road bikes on the road a LOT. I've toured across four states unsupported, and I've done RAGBRAI and other paved road rides. I LOVED riding paved back roads, but with today's distracted drivers, seeing others getting buzzed, hit, and even dying, I decided that it was more prudent to be on mostly deserted back roads which are not paved. Once I made the commitment to riding gravel, I was hooked. Here are a few of the reasons why:

• Super low traffic counts, and when you do encounter vehicles, they are more often than not piloted by friendly people. 
• Beauty and Peacefulness. Gravel and dirt roads take you places you will never see on pavement, plus the peacefulness of the rural areas is beyond description. Need a break from social media madness, your rat-race job, or life in general? Get off-pavement! 
• Challenging Riding: Generally gravel and dirt roads follow the contours of the land. It is more challenging, but that just means that your riding will be more rewarding. Challenges are good things! 
• Gravel riding will make you a better bicyclist. The contours, the varied nature of the surfaces, and dealing with various situations which gravel riding brings with it will stretch you as a cyclist and improve your bike handling skills. These things will translate to all areas of cycling you choose to pursue. 
• You can enjoy riding abreast with others, converse, and not be in the way or potentially become a road hazard. Obviously, you still need to be alert, but gravel riding is a social activity if you want it to be. It lends itself to that in a much better way than paved riding.
• Flora and Fauna: The rural areas are ripe with animals and plant life you just don't see off paved roads and certainly not in cities. Depending upon where you live, off-pavement riding can open up an entirely new world to you in terms of wildlife and plant specimens. 
• Lots of Places To Ride: Many states have tons of off-pavement roads to explore. Here where I live we have upwards of 70,000 miles of gravel and dirt roads to ride. While Iowa is one of the top states for off-pavement riding, your state probably has a lot of hidden gems to explore. Elsewhere in the world off-pavement riding can take you to some really interesting places. 
  

 Obviously gravel riding is one of the hottest trends in cycling right now. That may be a reason as well why you'd want to check it out. Now with all that said, gravel road riding is not for everyone. If you try it, or have tried it, and it just doesn't trip your trigger, well that's perfectly fine. You are not crazy. But good on you for giving it a go. 

Now, if any of the above hits your heart right and seems to be a good idea, the following articles in the series will hopefully get you sent off on the right track. There always are deeper dives into any of the topics I am going to cover, but I'm going to hit the highlights and send you on your way, hopefully, on an adventure that will bring you much joy and growth as a cyclist and as a person.

Next Wednesday: What Bike To Use

B.O.G. Series; Why Ride Gravel?

 Welcome to the Basics of Gravel Series (B.O.G.)! In this series I will attempt to bring a very foundational knowledge of gravel and back road riding to anyone reading that may be curious or a beginner in riding off-pavement, but not wanting to be mountain biking. There will be a new entry every Wednesday until the series is complete. To see the schedule, click this LINK. Thanks! 

This is gravel.

Why Ride Gravel?

With miles and miles of smooth, paved roads, why would anyone want to ride on gravel? It's dirty, dusty, rough, and uncomfortable. All these things are true. Pavement is a lot faster, smoother, and more fun- IF you aren't getting buzzed by speeding cars, afraid for your life, or getting abused in other ways like getting yelled at, having things thrown at you, or getting 'coal rolled' by some numbskull in a diesel truck. 

Maybe you are just tired of the attitude on the local group ride. Maybe the urban bike trails are getting boring. Perhaps you are in need of a new challenge. If any of that is you, there are a ton of gravel roads waiting for you. 

I used to ride road bikes on the road a LOT. I've toured across four states unsupported, and I've done RAGBRAI and other paved road rides. I LOVED riding paved back roads, but with today's distracted drivers, seeing others getting buzzed, hit, and even dying, I decided that it was more prudent to be on mostly deserted back roads which are not paved. Once I made the commitment to riding gravel, I was hooked. Here are a few of the reasons why:

• Super low traffic counts, and when you do encounter vehicles, they are more often than not piloted by friendly people. 
• Beauty and Peacefulness. Gravel and dirt roads take you places you will never see on pavement, plus the peacefulness of the rural areas is beyond description. Need a break from social media madness, your rat-race job, or life in general? Get off-pavement! 
• Challenging Riding: Generally gravel and dirt roads follow the contours of the land. It is more challenging, but that just means that your riding will be more rewarding. Challenges are good things! 
• Gravel riding will make you a better bicyclist. The contours, the varied nature of the surfaces, and dealing with various situations which gravel riding brings with it will stretch you as a cyclist and improve your bike handling skills. These things will translate to all areas of cycling you choose to pursue. 
• You can enjoy riding abreast with others, converse, and not be in the way or potentially become a road hazard. Obviously, you still need to be alert, but gravel riding is a social activity if you want it to be. It lends itself to that in a much better way than paved riding.
• Flora and Fauna: The rural areas are ripe with animals and plant life you just don't see off paved roads and certainly not in cities. Depending upon where you live, off-pavement riding can open up an entirely new world to you in terms of wildlife and plant specimens. 
• Lots of Places To Ride: Many states have tons of off-pavement roads to explore. Here where I live we have upwards of 70,000 miles of gravel and dirt roads to ride. While Iowa is one of the top states for off-pavement riding, your state probably has a lot of hidden gems to explore. Elsewhere in the world off-pavement riding can take you to some really interesting places. 
  

 Obviously gravel riding is one of the hottest trends in cycling right now. That may be a reason as well why you'd want to check it out. Now with all that said, gravel road riding is not for everyone. If you try it, or have tried it, and it just doesn't trip your trigger, well that's perfectly fine. You are not crazy. But good on you for giving it a go. 

Now, if any of the above hits your heart right and seems to be a good idea, the following articles in the series will hopefully get you sent off on the right track. There always are deeper dives into any of the topics I am going to cover, but I'm going to hit the highlights and send you on your way, hopefully, on an adventure that will bring you much joy and growth as a cyclist and as a person.

Next Wednesday: What Bike To Use

This Just In

Look closely at that handle bar. Somethin' odd goin' on there!

 Being in the reviewing of product game is odd. There are 'unwritten rules of engagement' and all manner of weird practices. Take for instance these new handle bars I just received for review on RidingGravel.com. 

The company sent these out and with that a note that there is a 'press embargo' on the bars until early March. That said, they are up on their website, they have taken pre-orders from customers, and are advertising the things on social media like crazy. Furthermore, customers that already have the bars are posting their thoughts already on these. So my question is, "What is the point in having a 'press embargo'? I fail to see any point at all in it, but.....I will not name these bars. That said, it'll take you two seconds to figure out what is going on here. 

Now, with that out of the way, I will go back into a bit of history here. It relates to what's on the BMC in the picture. Way back, when Ergon grips were still a pretty new thing, many of us in the gravel grinding community were wondering, "Hey! When are y'all gunna make sumthin' like that fer us? It'd be rad to put sumpthin' like these on drop bars, ya know?" And Ergon was receptive but said that "maybe someday" they'd get around to that. Which is company-speak for "We do not believe we'd sell enough to make it worthwhile". And back around 2006 - 2007? They were probably right. 

But now, in 2021, some company thought that the numbers were there for sales, and well, ya know what? They are right. And I believe you'll be seeing a lot more of these in the future. Just like when Ergon grips came out and people laughed and dismissed them as being too heavy, too goofy looking, and that it was an over-priced product, these are going to be dismissed similarly with similar comments. Too bad. 

But I think they will come around........

Stay tuned.

This Just In

Look closely at that handle bar. Somethin' odd goin' on there!

 Being in the reviewing of product game is odd. There are 'unwritten rules of engagement' and all manner of weird practices. Take for instance these new handle bars I just received for review on RidingGravel.com. 

The company sent these out and with that a note that there is a 'press embargo' on the bars until early March. That said, they are up on their website, they have taken pre-orders from customers, and are advertising the things on social media like crazy. Furthermore, customers that already have the bars are posting their thoughts already on these. So my question is, "What is the point in having a 'press embargo'? I fail to see any point at all in it, but.....I will not name these bars. That said, it'll take you two seconds to figure out what is going on here. 

Now, with that out of the way, I will go back into a bit of history here. It relates to what's on the BMC in the picture. Way back, when Ergon grips were still a pretty new thing, many of us in the gravel grinding community were wondering, "Hey! When are y'all gunna make sumthin' like that fer us? It'd be rad to put sumpthin' like these on drop bars, ya know?" And Ergon was receptive but said that "maybe someday" they'd get around to that. Which is company-speak for "We do not believe we'd sell enough to make it worthwhile". And back around 2006 - 2007? They were probably right. 

But now, in 2021, some company thought that the numbers were there for sales, and well, ya know what? They are right. And I believe you'll be seeing a lot more of these in the future. Just like when Ergon grips came out and people laughed and dismissed them as being too heavy, too goofy looking, and that it was an over-priced product, these are going to be dismissed similarly with similar comments. Too bad. 

But I think they will come around........

Stay tuned.