tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58346276333077800242024-03-04T23:13:54.113-05:00Orange CycleLocal Happenings, Insights, Product Reviews and Other Shenanigans orange cyclehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12396644183090087217noreply@blogger.comBlogger43125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-52877340965775744792019-02-22T17:28:00.001-05:002019-02-22T17:28:27.309-05:00Orange Cycle: Finding the Right Saddle<a href="https://orangecycleorlando.blogspot.com/2019/02/finding-right-saddle.html?spref=bl">Orange Cycle: Finding the Right Saddle</a>: Who hasn't purchased a new bike only to discover the fun was dampened by an uncomfortable saddle? Saddle comfort is a fairly common iss...coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-76035178542632672712019-02-22T17:25:00.003-05:002019-02-22T17:25:59.839-05:00Finding the Right SaddleWho hasn't purchased a new bike only to discover the fun was dampened by an uncomfortable saddle? Saddle comfort is a fairly common issue especially with new cyclists. <br />
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Bikes come with a standard size saddle. For instance a woman's Specialized Ruby road bike comes with a 155mm saddle. Just because that awesome new bike fits perfectly with regard to the frame sizing doesn't necessarily mean the saddle will be right. Shorts with a good chamois (padding) will definitely help, but if the saddle is too big or too small you will still have comfort issues until you have a saddle that fits you. <br />
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Orange Cycle has the Retul Digital Sit Bone Device (DSB). All of our sales people are trained to use this device so please ask to have your sit bones measured if you're not sure the saddle on your bike fits you. <br />
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Here are a few things to also consider if you are experiencing discomfort:<br />
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<li>Saddle height. If your saddle is too high it can cause you to shift your weight side to side which will result in irritation in the perineal area.</li>
<li>Saddle angle. Oy. I personally use a level to keep my saddle at zero angle. Getting a professional bike fit will also fix this problem. The slighted angle tilted up or down can make a huge difference on your comfort and finding relief. </li>
<li>Riding style. I see a lot of road cyclists hit bumps and remain seated. Not me. If I'm going to hit a bumpy section I stand on the pedals until I'm past the rough spots. Something else I've learned along the way - if I'm out on a long ride I will get out of the saddle periodically to give my back and butt a break. Maybe the road bike isn't doing it for you any more - then try a flat bar hybrid (with or without front suspension). If you're on a hardtail mountain bike then you might want to consider a full suspension bike. Some people end up going to a recumbent bike. Nothing wrong with any of those choices because all of them still keep you off the couch and that's the goal here. </li>
<li>Gel or Foam saddle? Gel offers great comfort on casual rides. The downside of a gel saddle is that it tends to get compacted more quickly than a foam saddle. A good foam saddle springs back to shape after a long ride which is why most road cyclists prefer foam. Foam also provides more support for the cyclist. </li>
<li>Center split in the saddle. These saddles reduce or eliminate the material in the middle of the saddle, which relieves pressure on the perineum and provides airflow and comfort during long rides.</li>
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Talk to one of our experienced and knowledgeable sales professionals and don't be afraid to say exactly what's going on. We want you to love riding your bike and to be as comfortable as possible. Test ride a few saddles until you find the one that's right for you. </div>
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'Til next time - Keep riding!</div>
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~ Dottie</div>
coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-30690073059991446462019-02-01T16:13:00.000-05:002019-02-01T16:13:03.181-05:00Charity Rides<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOdu5RD9kXr-eXUIZ5TImxyl4yB8jEIS2HOHKr5zhBdQRjIr3n63NtbANLa9RIHz3wwCtyywmz16TAHLYcJxk4gOQ04Ji1sJaggdLvOLRCS59tqntoIZJSPYYCjAZF8C-M2DvXBU7-_wZ/s1600/C.C.+Riders+%2526+Orange+Cycle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="749" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOdu5RD9kXr-eXUIZ5TImxyl4yB8jEIS2HOHKr5zhBdQRjIr3n63NtbANLa9RIHz3wwCtyywmz16TAHLYcJxk4gOQ04Ji1sJaggdLvOLRCS59tqntoIZJSPYYCjAZF8C-M2DvXBU7-_wZ/s320/C.C.+Riders+%2526+Orange+Cycle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Orange Cycle at Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life 2016</td></tr>
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2018 is behind us and now we are are rolling into the 2019 charity/organized cycling season. If you haven't signed up for a charity ride in the past you might consider checking out the rides scheduled for 2019. CAAM Events has most of the rides on their roster plus so many more! Check out their website and join a team to raise funds for very worthy causes! <a href="http://www.caamevents.com/">http://www.caamevents.com/</a><br />
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There's something to be said about committing to an organization that you're willing to support by appealing to your family and peers to raise funds for something that speaks to you. A lot of teams pull together to raise a goal, train and spin out 25, 35, 50, 65, 70 or 100 miles. The reward is completing the goal you set and participating in the pre and post ride food, music and fun.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE77WRO3MFfJVqxm_KLdCXNjVeFj5Jq9Tcq3gNm1IQ3WFdTR1eCk3do1YfoDHoaBIvsbQtdlZScmmummkWixUDieeAxF5jeT5jko1bdFopmdlG51fmnX9O9zrvXHFgZXNUlJEkmkoFpp9q/s1600/Tour+de+Cure+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE77WRO3MFfJVqxm_KLdCXNjVeFj5Jq9Tcq3gNm1IQ3WFdTR1eCk3do1YfoDHoaBIvsbQtdlZScmmummkWixUDieeAxF5jeT5jko1bdFopmdlG51fmnX9O9zrvXHFgZXNUlJEkmkoFpp9q/s320/Tour+de+Cure+2017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tour de Cure 2017</td></tr>
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Many of our team members here at Orange Cycle join in on the charity rides when our schedules allow us. We find huge satisfaction of being a small part of the big picture. Deena and Howard encourage us to build a team, ride for fun and, of course, represent our bike shop. They support our team and donate to several organizations. They also do something incredibly giving to our community. By your hard work of raising $150+ in donations for a charity ride in which you participate Orange Cycle will give you one Orange Cycle jersey per year. Bring proof of your fundraising and one of our team members will show you which jersey is free to you.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl16pLFnctp5I13lFxdDU8E3Zzi1gDPPxKTQlvjlPC70v2nRPGRR7xrbZp4Df3ZpBBfgTOEis_0_nWj2PpeWQbjQYbiKlFM1q2Rn1fS243z2m93NVKC_KMcxcwSi4PiJzUI5Sp4XnKGMgn/s1600/Charity+ride+jerseys.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="285" data-original-width="500" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl16pLFnctp5I13lFxdDU8E3Zzi1gDPPxKTQlvjlPC70v2nRPGRR7xrbZp4Df3ZpBBfgTOEis_0_nWj2PpeWQbjQYbiKlFM1q2Rn1fS243z2m93NVKC_KMcxcwSi4PiJzUI5Sp4XnKGMgn/s320/Charity+ride+jerseys.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raise $150+ in charity ride donations get a free OC jersey!</td></tr>
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The morning of Horrible Hundred 2018 I was walking back to my car I was chatting with a fellow from Sarasota who admitted he was very nervous about doing the century as he hadn't trained for hills. I smiled and told him so were a lot of other people. The best piece of advice I could give him was "Let the hills come to you. Don't look up as you're ascending, go the pace you're comfortable with and remember, if you can maintain 2.5 - 3 mph you won't fall over." For me it was harder to walk up Sugar Loaf Mountain than what it was to ride. When a friend told me what another cyclist told her about maintaining balance on the bike at that snail pace I tried it and passed on the word (it's TRUE and it beats walking up that big ol' hill!). I hope the advice worked.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59P5xfrXcRGSmw5g6OJwHs2JzWNosSxbqty0hDn-ut-ITiMRTAlORSl3mYsV36GlRxtTciEI9QswuA2Zp2QmppZsXSbXoyHWWAClWJxU43VlXG0peGAViYC8xgD4_5o_UpGwll2VGfQO3/s1600/Tour+Latino+2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="714" data-original-width="960" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59P5xfrXcRGSmw5g6OJwHs2JzWNosSxbqty0hDn-ut-ITiMRTAlORSl3mYsV36GlRxtTciEI9QswuA2Zp2QmppZsXSbXoyHWWAClWJxU43VlXG0peGAViYC8xgD4_5o_UpGwll2VGfQO3/s320/Tour+Latino+2018.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tour Latino 2018<br /></td></tr>
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What are you waiting for? Sign up and join the fun! Not familiar with local cycling clubs? Call Orange Cycle and ask for some suggestions. Ride, have fun and support your local organizations!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUF6vvM4oRABXFnPZRmCoTwHJkXsDMH1bNRGm3mdap7V0deZRi0g50tFa5bLP3x0rmhFB0gd-NFdMMtNUxxRJ_iUMqVAOS7MDG8ABNtx8hs_nFMEXghrR0U99MNTXmCs85czrV9PJyqA5/s1600/CF+2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUF6vvM4oRABXFnPZRmCoTwHJkXsDMH1bNRGm3mdap7V0deZRi0g50tFa5bLP3x0rmhFB0gd-NFdMMtNUxxRJ_iUMqVAOS7MDG8ABNtx8hs_nFMEXghrR0U99MNTXmCs85czrV9PJyqA5/s320/CF+2018.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life 2018<br /><br /></td></tr>
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Peace out and ride on!<br /><br />
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<br />coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-9426251476251517422019-01-24T17:17:00.001-05:002019-01-31T07:54:15.234-05:00Folding Bikes on VacationMost of my vacations involve three things: My boyfriend, my dog and a bike. Even if the first two don't get to go I will usually try to fit a bike ride into the schedule. <br />
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Recently with our Asheville trip pending we were still trying to decide whether to rent bikes or take our own. Rich has a folding bike and I was contemplating taking my mountain bike. A week before we left on vacation he suggested I purchase my own folding bike. So I added #6 to my fleet of bikes because it made sense. We have talked about traveling more by car so we could take folding bikes and my awesome bike dog Max. We decided this trip would be the inaugural folding bike trip.<br />
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We packed the tiny rental car which, amazingly, had room for the two folding bikes in the trunk plus our suitcases, a cooler (for growler's of beer not food or water), a pillow, a blanket, dog bed, dog food, dog bowls and said dog Max (wait . . . WHO'S going on vacation???).<br />
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We had most of our trip planned out. Drive north on Blue Ridge Parkway, hike, eat, taste craft beer, music, drive south on Blue Ridge Parkway, hike more, eat more, more music, drink more, kayak, bike, eat more, shop for records (as in albums) in some particular order. We stayed in West Asheville close to the BRP and highways leading us hither and yon.<br />
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Our first morning there we drove into Asheville to have breakfast and survey our surroundings. We sat outdoors in the long anticipated cool air enjoying breakfast made of organic fixings and me sitting back with a big mug of dark roast coffee with pure raw honey and cream.<br />
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Following our meal we walked around checking out shops. Hmm . . . super hilly city, people on scooters all over the place, lots of pedestrians and no cyclists. Definitely nobody trying to ride up those hills on a 6 or 7 speed folding bike with 20" wheels. No matter. We knew we would find a trail that would be perfect for us.<br />
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After missing the window of opportunity to kayak on the only day for which we had allotted time my partner in crime quickly looked up the dog park, we put Max in the car and off we went to Carrier Park and The French Broad River Dog Park with the leash and our folding bikes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30hkYtDhJHUQGJoGRA_6sIpANYVetQtGN3ijTFHRF274vGXZgWgxtkkQAEmrhj-2-pPc8-dXIJ6hK-joiriuIY9Cd2FlsYyq0PjHEPXdAdULnoPJ952VWqAsEiVSEv6PekzCpv7R_HO1m/s1600/folding+bikes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj30hkYtDhJHUQGJoGRA_6sIpANYVetQtGN3ijTFHRF274vGXZgWgxtkkQAEmrhj-2-pPc8-dXIJ6hK-joiriuIY9Cd2FlsYyq0PjHEPXdAdULnoPJ952VWqAsEiVSEv6PekzCpv7R_HO1m/s320/folding+bikes.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dottie, Rich and Max </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1tcRn3kvx5XjUXfMGu27b8QwGygYLc2OOJ9zQ8NHGqWlxbrNZ5O5HsMAX3Pa5ik4v41TDXz17F3E6phFzY-2vp3JhQlMa77IayRUhCtjHhNXmst5nxI2HLds_Fr5EJ-6UjImaS77iJDD/s1600/Carrier+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb1tcRn3kvx5XjUXfMGu27b8QwGygYLc2OOJ9zQ8NHGqWlxbrNZ5O5HsMAX3Pa5ik4v41TDXz17F3E6phFzY-2vp3JhQlMa77IayRUhCtjHhNXmst5nxI2HLds_Fr5EJ-6UjImaS77iJDD/s320/Carrier+Park.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The French Broad River</td></tr>
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Arriving at Carrier Park we pulled out the bikes, unfolded them, found someone who was kind enough to air the tires on Rich's bike after I managed to let the air out of one of his tires due to a broken nozzle on the bike pump located at the park and off we went.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aWUnH1o4TVxJyqrCrfjLsh3rCzmuSEwTtG5n36Vc4wJSqwCfI0dy_e0_my2JoRVgG5YeZkJ3_hrLKLoqXf9RkgpBwQ6feaPozQzxiXwXj5rKbjsfYS58pwvKoA6tx_oEQEenx09F7PiI/s1600/French+Broad+River.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4aWUnH1o4TVxJyqrCrfjLsh3rCzmuSEwTtG5n36Vc4wJSqwCfI0dy_e0_my2JoRVgG5YeZkJ3_hrLKLoqXf9RkgpBwQ6feaPozQzxiXwXj5rKbjsfYS58pwvKoA6tx_oEQEenx09F7PiI/s320/French+Broad+River.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Dahon folding bikes</td></tr>
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First thing at the parking lot we noticed was a <a href="https://www.citizen-times.com/story/news/local/2018/03/19/ashevilles-carrier-park-velodrome-reopens/438578002/%C2%A0">Velodrome</a>. I stopped and chatted with a guy in the parking lot who said Asheville had just completed the $1.3 million project this past spring. There were only two people there when we arrived. I instantly wished Orlando had their own Velodrome. Click Velodrome link above to check out this cool makeover!<br />
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While we rode Max ran alongside on his leash. He's such a cool, smart dog and was pretty easy to train. He didn't care much for the dog park but he loves running and we enjoyed the view. We even took a little dirt path that ran alongside the river - perfect to cut him off the leash and we had some photo ops too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0C90JMPI4vKn3cmABzfbp2ROMqa_re7vC-cyoabFsKxtNJewU_cf9-EomiFrjFDgNwbY1LAJwd7JoTT4uVUnfo1HWpKUufiF4o8VV5R0A53_y1uoQp9SSCyoRphtM12W04rJ03GrEoIm/s1600/Max+Asheville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs0C90JMPI4vKn3cmABzfbp2ROMqa_re7vC-cyoabFsKxtNJewU_cf9-EomiFrjFDgNwbY1LAJwd7JoTT4uVUnfo1HWpKUufiF4o8VV5R0A53_y1uoQp9SSCyoRphtM12W04rJ03GrEoIm/s320/Max+Asheville.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Max - Bike Dog!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtcZDyWwHBFtviB37_Fm_qWyxBALajF4ri14xam641B8xlF3XCew6qHEwo_7842aICSevg6ezMjrjxG55-JrmYnyvPiH9FuFmsFa5ktDl4QqCoZ0P8Xuw7g-mY4GaYV0n81UcZsVe3h-F/s1600/French+Broad+River+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEtcZDyWwHBFtviB37_Fm_qWyxBALajF4ri14xam641B8xlF3XCew6qHEwo_7842aICSevg6ezMjrjxG55-JrmYnyvPiH9FuFmsFa5ktDl4QqCoZ0P8Xuw7g-mY4GaYV0n81UcZsVe3h-F/s320/French+Broad+River+Park.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Max - the only unsocial dog at the dog park.</td></tr>
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When we got back to the car Rich wanted me to go do a lap around the Velodrome. I shook my head but temptation got the best of me so I hauled my bike over the boardwalk, chuckled, hopped on my little 6 speed bike and did a lap, waving at the lone guy on the track who was taking a break. He laughed out loud and so did I. By no means did I break any records. It sure was fun though!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwBseBeGp-CVcxyHcdDkXk7uer4fGW2rb1zDV4pocQW2ciWI8qn4urNjxDTiqz9xCDcUOvwMuVc_v5eBYHA9LLZNK-Z6DYZi5G3N9iQKyk9YcVMOkrb8t9Tw0b_OqD3eUm17k3jSHbPUA/s1600/Velodrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPwBseBeGp-CVcxyHcdDkXk7uer4fGW2rb1zDV4pocQW2ciWI8qn4urNjxDTiqz9xCDcUOvwMuVc_v5eBYHA9LLZNK-Z6DYZi5G3N9iQKyk9YcVMOkrb8t9Tw0b_OqD3eUm17k3jSHbPUA/s320/Velodrome.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Dahon folding bike and I meet the Velodrome!</td></tr>
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We packed up our bikes and the dog and left. Happy memories and now we know it doesn't matter what dog park we visit Max isn't interested in playing with other dogs. He just wants to hang out with his humans. We're definitely going back to Asheville next year and I think we will take our little folding bikes with us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6Ot9K9XOyN-AOdVA5PpwuNp_cb1zKVQ5fOZciO8bEgMKPv_zqdHx1-fkEMGxbOMocdlLkDAhe0_RhOMnraUSplbNsvGyzzV68pOBSnsigx-juC7tO7qWklN2ZQTI6GvrB79QgLX5HSW3/s1600/Asheville+Gears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6Ot9K9XOyN-AOdVA5PpwuNp_cb1zKVQ5fOZciO8bEgMKPv_zqdHx1-fkEMGxbOMocdlLkDAhe0_RhOMnraUSplbNsvGyzzV68pOBSnsigx-juC7tO7qWklN2ZQTI6GvrB79QgLX5HSW3/s320/Asheville+Gears.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Artsy little mall near Carrier Park</td></tr>
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<br />coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-14276988061509460852018-08-15T10:17:00.001-04:002018-08-15T12:25:20.969-04:00Electrified Part 2 After several months of pedal assist riding, I have realized that there are several things to consider when purchasing one. Just like a traditional bike, the proper choice of bike and accessories is very important to the enjoyment of your bike.<br />
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There are quite a few manufactures of electric bikes at this time, and probably many more about to enter the market. This many choices makes decision making difficult, but when you realize that the starting point for a quality electric bike should be at least $1500 (in my opinion), quite a few bikes can be eliminated from consideration. It sounds like a lot, but a good quality bike will start at about $500. (again, my opinion). A pedal assist bike also has a battery, motor, and charger, all adding to the cost. The bike should have a stronger frame, wheelset, and better brakes than a regular bike. The extra weight and power of the bike makes these essential.<br />
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Another consideration is service. Any good mechanic can work on the bike. But who can work on the battery or motor if issues arise? Major brands will have parts and service availability; bikes bought from Amazon or big box retailers will not. It is frustrating for both the customer and Orange Cycle when we are unable to work on a bike due to lack of support from the company.<br />
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So you have a good quality bike. Now comes the accessories to make it safer and more enjoyable. First, a helmet should always be worn. I believe that a helmet is essential for riding any bike., Second, a good lock is essential. U locks are much more secure than cable locks, however they are heavier.. With a pedal assist bike I do not have a problem with the extra weight. My bike has a rack and bag to load up on stuff when I am running errands. My lock is always with me, and my bike is always there after I leave it outside a store or restaurant. Third is a bike rack. Not everyone realizes that the bike rack you use for your regular bike is probably not strong enough for the extra weight of an electric bike (or two). A trunk mount rack or receiver style mast rack is not designed for that much weight,, and a lot of receiver hitch wheel tray racks are often rated at 40 lbs. per bike. Check the weight capacity of your current rack before loading electric bikes.<br />
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Orange Cycle carries several models of Specialized and Raleigh pedal assist bikes. We have knowledgeable sales staff and incredible repair staff to help you. Stop in for a test ride.<br />
cjmoosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13110773876631709478noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-53397963507153527402018-07-20T20:32:00.000-04:002018-07-20T20:32:36.786-04:00Electrified Part 1 I admit, one year ago I did not really believe in pedal assist bikes. It took a ride on one while on vacation to change my ideas about these bikes.<br />
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While on a trip, my wife (an admitted non-cyclist) and some friends rented some pedal assist bikes to explore the local paved trails of Hood River, Oregon. Some of us were on regular bikes, but the ones on the electric bikes were having a blast going up the hills. Sheila was hooked on riding. I still had my doubts.<br />
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Last fall we invested in a pedal assist bike for her. After a lot of research and test rides, she found the bike she enjoyed the most. Since then she rides on a regular basis, both just riding for exercise and also running local errands. My problem was keeping up with her. While I am a decent cyclist, it was frustrating to try to match her consistent 15 MPH over hills and into head winds.<br />
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About 2 months ago I purchased a Specialized Como 3.0. I am now a firm believer in pedal assist bikes. Not only is it fun to just ride, it has taken the place of my car on many local trips. In the summer I do not run local errands on my bike- by the time I get somewhere I am too sweaty to be presentable in public. On an electric bike I cruise at 18 MPH (or more) with minimal effort, with a nice breeze cooling me. I really feel that with some planning my wife and I could become a one car family. <br />
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I have had some cyclist friends give me grief about my new bike. Everyone of them has a smile on their face after testing it- it makes you feel like Superman on a bike. As Specialized says- It's you, only faster. There are many advantages of the pedal assist bike. One is it opens up cycling to a lot of people who would not otherwise ride. Another is that is fantastic for commuting or local trips. I can get from College Park to downtown Orlando or Winter Park in about the same time as in my car, and parking is never an issue. The new bike is not replacing my regular rides; it is supplementing them. <br />
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If you have not ridden a pedal assist bike, stop by Orange Cycle and check out our selection of Specialized and Raleigh electric bikes. You'll love the ride. <br />
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<br />cjmoosehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13110773876631709478noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-42219917713870516752018-04-03T21:12:00.001-04:002018-04-03T21:12:43.827-04:00Orange Cycle: Hydration and Hindsight<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.blogspot.com/2018/04/hydration-and-hindsight.html?spref=bl">Orange Cycle: Hydration and Hindsight</a>: Several years ago while I was still living in the Show Me state a friend sent a text asking if I was going to participate in the Red Ribbon ...coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-88161764604126900302018-04-03T14:06:00.004-04:002018-04-03T21:11:12.753-04:00Hydration and Hindsight Several years ago while I was still living in the Show Me state a friend sent a text asking if I was going to participate in the Red Ribbon Ride. I had been out of town, had literally just flown back the day I received the text and the ride was the next day. Why not? I hopped in my car, drove over to the APO (AIDS Project of the Ozarks) office, registered for 35 miles and even drove the route to make sure I wasn't getting in over my head. It didn't appear to be a difficult course - rolling hills and one steep hill that might pose a challenge - but overall I felt confident.<br />
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Did I mention I had just gotten back into cycling? Did I mention I forgot A LOT about what one needs for a long hilly ride? Essential needs like, for instance, proper hydration?<br />
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I went home, aired my tires, checked over my bike, made sure I had a tube, filled up two bottles of water to take with me the next morning and went about my evening.<br />
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That night one of my best friends came over with a big bottle of wine. I was decorating her son's wedding cake and she wanted to spend time with me and help. Well . . . that bottle of wine went down pretty smoothly. We laughed a lot, listened to music, talked and as it got later I insisted she stay in my guest room.<br />
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Early the next morning, RIDE morning, I rolled out of bed with a fuzzy head, got dressed, ate part of a peanut butter sandwich, drank a little water and headed out the door. I heard my friend say "You're not going on that ride are you?" to which I replied, "Hell yeah! I paid for it and I'm going!".<br />
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Oh. Believe me. Boy did I pay for it!<br />
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This was my very first organized ride and I had no clue what to do. I never did see the person who had invited me to the ride. Someone was nice enough to pin my number on the back of my jersey. I didn't know any cyclists and didn't have a relationship with a local bike shop so I was there on my own. Feeling a little nauseous. Nerves I figured.<br />
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I knew enough to stay away from the front and stick to the rear. Everyone rolled out and I waited until I was almost the very last one to leave. As I turned to head up the first hill there was a pile up of cyclists who had crashed. At least I wasn't one of them. I pedaled up that hill and rode with a couple of gals for about 8 miles. They were faster than me and soon took off. No matter. As long as I knew where to turn.<br />
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The first SAG stop was about 15 miles out. I was beginning to feel the after effects of the wine from the night before. At that point it was 15 miles back or 20 miles to finish the ride. I decided to finish the ride. I ate a banana and a spoonful of peanut butter, drank a little water and headed out again.<br />
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To make a long story short because I wasn't hydrating regularly throughout the ride I became more and more fatigued, my head hurt, I walked four hills, huffed, puffed, thought one of my lungs was going to collapse, cried and cursed myself for drinking wine the night before the ride and for not getting enough rest. I was so under prepared and I didn't even know it until I was out on those roads, people passing me, some offering encouragement, some making light of a small incline that might as well have been a mountain.<br />
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Determined not to walk all the hills I took it slow, dropping into my granny gear to ride up one of the easier inclines, turned onto a farm road finally picking up speed, then had to slow down to round a corner and BAM! The hill from hell. I got halfway up, thought I was going to fall over, jerked my left foot off the pedal, managed to get off the bike, banged the pedal against my shin, cussed up a storm, cried a little more, pushed that bike to a driveway where I stopped to catch my breath and take a long drink of water. I was thirstier than I could ever remember. My legs were shaking and I felt alone, stupid and drained.<br />
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Finally I caught my second wind, got back on the bike, topped that hill and made it back to my car. I leaned the bike against the trunk, opened the cap on my one of the water bottles and guzzled warm liquid. Then my stomach cramped and I thought I was going to hurl. I poured water on my neck, the insides of my wrists and elbows. I felt like hell. Finally I popped open the trunk, tucked my bike inside the car and walked over to get a BBQ sandwich and a beer.<br />
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As soon as I had my food and beer I walked over to a picnic table. A guy who was sitting there looked me over and said "You know, cycling isn't a contact sport." I took a look at my arms and legs. I was dirty, battered and bruised. My left shin had a gash that was bleeding (probably from the pedal ramming into it) and I have no idea where the bruises came from. I ate half the sandwich, took a sip of the beer and ended chucking everything into the trash and going home.<br />
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I went home, napped, drank a ton of water, went to the wedding and cut out right after the couple cut the cake.<br />
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Where did things go wrong? Let's see. <b>A</b>. I had flown the day before and was dehydrated. I didn't know how to properly hydrate after the flight. <b>B.</b> I drank wine the same night after flying - causing further dehydration and, to boot, before an event I had never done before. <b>C</b>. I didn't get a good night's rest. <b>D.</b> I didn't hydrate before the ride and waited until I was thirsty during the ride before I began drinking rather than drinking regularly throughout the ride to prevent further dehydration. <b>E. </b> I carried only water - no electrolytes and I didn't fill up on Gatorade, oranges or pickle juice at the SAG stop. <b>F.</b> I didn't carry nutrition and didn't eat enough before starting the ride (I thought that half PBJ would get me through the ride).<br />
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Hindsight is 20-20. I learned from my mistakes. I <i style="font-weight: bold;">never</i> wanted to feel like that again. I researched hydration, natural electrolytes, how to properly prepare for a ride - the Do's and Don'ts. How to PRE hydrate, how often to drink DURING (every 15-20 minutes you should be drinking) the ride and how much AFTER the ride. Hydrate the day before, even TWO days before. How not to OVER hydrate. I also acquainted myself with a local bike shop where I quizzed those guys brains for information. A good bike shop will have employees who not only offer awesome services (bike sales, parts, maintenance, clothing and nutrition) but offer advice and expertise. ASK for help! <br />
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We are entering into 6 months of summer in Central Florida. Beginners have trouble balancing hydration and nutrition as they begin to extend the time, distance and pace of their rides. Even more experienced cyclists have problems in our humid, searing heat. The best piece of advice I can offer is to prepare. Train for those long rides. Ask fellow cyclists for advice and information. Try different things BEFORE you ride to make sure something new agrees with your stomach. The day of a long ride is not the time to try something new.<br />
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I like to prepare the day before a long ride by drinking a mix of coconut water mixed with filtered water, a squeeze of an entire lemon or lime, a little magnesium and a dash of salt. Sometimes I carry this mix with me while I'm riding or I use EFS (Electrolyte Fuel System) or Hammer HEED (Hydrating Energy Electrolyte Drink). I carry one bottle with electrolytes and one bottle of water. I also carry energy gels like GU, or Hammer, Clif Blocks or Honey Stinger chews & waffles. I usually carry a few extra gels and a little electrolyte powder for the newbies who think they don't need anything special for longer rides. They do.<br />
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If you're not drinking every 15-20 minutes (for most people - I know some people who don't drink very often and I don't know how they do it) chances are you are going to dehydrate and lose energy quickly. Plan your rides and your drinks accordingly.<br />
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It's important to remember to continue to hydrate after your ride. Whether it's more EFS, Hammer Recovery or coconut water, your body needs to replenish electrolytes so make sure you treat yourself kindly. You won't regret it. Trust me on this. ;-) Oh. And do yourself a favor and skip that bottle of wine with a friend until after the ride. In retrospect I can laugh at that experience but it could have turned into a serious situation. I realized that and educated myself.<br />
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'Til next time!<br />
Keep riding!<br />
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Dottie <br />
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<br />coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-59704418893402763342018-03-10T11:22:00.004-05:002018-03-10T11:22:37.769-05:00Rolling Down West Orange Trail - Part IRecently I was supposed to meet up with a new gal in my ladies bike group who also moved here from my hometown of Springfield, MO. As luck would have it she got stuck in marathon foot traffic in Celebration (seriously and literally) and couldn't make it in time for our scheduled 9:00AM ride. I was in route and at a stop light when I saw her message. No problem. I love riding solo and decided to continue out to the West Orange Trailhead behind the Buddhist Temple to log a few miles.<br />
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Sometimes the mind messes with a person. At first I planned to ride 25 miles, then thought, maybe 10 or 15 miles. It had been a long time since I had been on my road bike and though I had a good breakfast, a little coffee, was well rested and felt great, I began to sabotage myself. So I decided to shoot for Chapin Station. And so began my ride.<br />
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First of all, West Orange Trail is one of my favorite Trails in Central Florida. One can ride a few miles or a lot of miles. I planned on taking it slow and easy since I was on my time and didn't have any particular place to go. Enjoy the scenery, check out a new neighborhood and take some pictures. If I felt like riding past Chapin Station then I would ride on to Winter Garden. If I felt like riding past Winter Garden I would ride to Oakland and check out the Watusi at Briley Farm. Once you make it to Briley Farm, whether or not you get to see the watusi, ostriches, zebras, peacocks and so many other animals, it's a given to head on to Killarney Station. Here's link to Briley Farm: http://www.brileyfarm.com/other.html<br />
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After deciding to leave the jacket behind I dropped my water bottles into the cages, checked to make sure I had energy chews and a couple of gels, put my ID and funds into my cell phone case and rolled out of the park. There was a nice breeze, the temperature was perfect, my lungs filled with fresh air, my attitude was stellar and stretching my legs as I pedaled felt fantastic.<br />
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The following day my oldest daughter was scheduled to have her labor induced. My thoughts were charged with anticipation. She was scared and I was feeling a little anxious wondering how to soothe her. She was the first person to introduce me to West Orange Trail. Back in 2003 or 2004, when running was wrecking my knees it was my oldest daughter who brought me back to cycling. I recalled that first 10 miles. 5 miles out and back. Going down hill was great! Not knowing how to shift gears sucked and so did the minor ascents that left me feeling out of breath.<br />
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I detoured into a new neighborhood, rolling from one end to the other, then went back to the trail and crossed Ingram Outpost (parking area), deciding to go on to Chapin Station. Just past Ingram you'll curve along a golf course, a wooded area, a cemetery, down a fairly steep hill (remember - you have to climb back up it but the trip down going fast is exhilarating!). There's a water station just before the cross walk so you can stop and fill up your water bottle if needed. You'll pass a school that has cattle and a garden, cross a wooden bridge, climb a slight hill, cross a street and BOOM! You'll arrive at Chapin Station!<br />
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I love the little park there and the sculpture of two kids riding their bikes and a little dog running beside the older girl. You can park your bike outside the brick footpath, walk back to a little man made pond, sit under the gazebo if you like, listen to water spilling into the pond from one of the egret sculptures and enjoy the foliage. It's peaceful. Enlightening. Path of Light.<br />
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There is also a restroom at Chapin Station, a place to lock your bike in front of the building, I have no idea what's inside the building - I don't believe it has ever been open when I'm there. It's a nice place to take a break and take pictures though as well as chat with fellow cyclists if you're so inclined.<br />
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I walked down the path, snapped some photos, strategically placed Rosie (my ride) for photo opportunities, waved at four cyclists as they pulled up to park and talk, having already decided as I pedaled that my next stop would be Winter Garden.<br />
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West Orange Trail is such a pleasant ride. I couldn't help but smile and as I rode past a little industrial area I flashed back to my daughter and I riding together, darting past chickens that clucked and took over the path, laughing at the fact there were even chickens there! They're gone now, but the memory of them lives on.<br />
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Onward to Winter Garden. I LOVE Winter Garden! Down a hill, cross the road with care, up a hill that runs behind another neighborhood, crossing another wood bridge (danger alert on foggy mornings or rain!) and onto Winter Garden Station. Winter Garden Station had signs up that the path was blocked (I presumed from fallen trees thanks to Hurricane Irma) so I rolled cautiously past the signs but no downed trees or danger. The bike rental shop was open, there's plenty of parking, a beautiful playground, restrooms and water fountains.<br />
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Plant Street is the hub of Winter Garden. The bike path runs down the middle, there are coffee shops, restaurants, an ice cream shop, a bike shop, a theatre and a brewery connected to an artisan market. Plus piped in music along the path. Super cool area. On Saturday they have a farmer's market. Beware if you're riding through on a Saturday though as you can't ride your bike on the trail or Plant Street due to the tents and customers perusing the wares.<br />
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If you want to know more about the bright yellow caboose and the Heritage Museum click this link or stop by and check it out in person! http://www.wintergardenpost.com/winter-garden-heritage-museum.html<br />
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By now it's a given I'm going to continue to Oakland to see the watusi and on to Killarney Station. Oakland is about 2. 5 miles from Winter Garden and from there another 2.5 miles to Killarney. Riding along the trail, which now has a new housing development marking the path, I check out the houses, stop to take a photo of the gator carved into a tree stump, look for the gator that used to live in the area, and pedal on to see if the watusi are grazing.<br />
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SCORE! To this day it still blows me away that there is a cool farm that has watusi, ostriches, zebras and peacocks. I don't care who I'm riding with, if any of the above named animals are out, I will stop and take pictures. I'll either catch up with the group or enjoy the rest of the ride solo. On this day there was one lone watusi grazing. I didn't get very good pictures but if you look closely you can see him.<br />
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The sight of the watusi had me grinning ear to ear. I hopped back on my bike, pleased with myself for deciding to ride and snap photos along the way and at my own pace on my own time. No particular place to go and no particular time that I had to be anywhere. Bike rides like that are some of the best and most relaxing.<br />
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There's a water fountain at Oakland station and a metal bike sculpture. It's a quiet little park and unlike many other areas of the trail, hasn't been blown up by development. I snapped a photo of the sculpture and continued to my final destination where I would turn around for the return ride.<br />
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I thought back to the first couple of times I rode this trail, huffing and puffing up the incline that runs along the backside of a neighborhood that leads to crossing the bridge to Killarney Station. My daughter would stop at the top and cheer me on, other cyclists would ride alongside and encourage me, sometimes I cursed that hill. I always got to the top, never walked it and rode across that bridge feeling like a kid again and that I had accomplished something. Thinking about these things make me smile. :-)<br />
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As I rolled into Killarney Station a family of five or six were getting ready to roll out on their rented bikes. A grandma, mom and three or four teens. I love when families turn cycling into time together on a bike adventure. I snapped another photo of Rosie, looked for people I might know, people watched for a few minutes and back in the far stretches of my mind recalled one time riding clipped in and forgot to unclip when I came to a stop. I fell over into the grass in front of a group of women. I wasn't hurt but my ego was bruised. haha!<br />
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If you're new to the area, or want to take visitors or family on West Orange Trail you have two choices for rentals. Killarney Station rents bikes and Winter Garden Station also has a bike rental shop which is run by Winter Garden Wheel Works. Bottled water and nutrition is available inside both buildings and restroom facilities are available on the exterior of both buildings. <br />
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There is so much more to share from my return and this blog has gotten a bit lengthy so I'll save the return travel for Part II. Stay tuned!<br />
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'Til next time - Keep Riding! <br />
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- Dottie<br />
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<br />coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-35417405651722196462018-01-10T22:57:00.001-05:002018-01-11T16:06:36.083-05:00Freedom Like anyone else sometimes I do a lot of thinking when on a bike ride and sometimes I dump a lot of clutter out of my head. Most mornings I hook up my dog Max to his leash, push my mountain bike out the door, I walk him to the end of the driveway and then we head off on a 2 or 3 mile run (he runs and I ride).<br />
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A couple of days ago on our morning outing I started thinking about the sense of freedom bike riding gives me. I don't remember learning how to ride a bike, I just remember being in 3rd grade and sharing a bike with my older siblings. Sometimes my brother would be the captain sitting on the banana seat, I'd sit on the handlebars and my sister would sit on the sissy seat on the rear, or she and I would swap places. I'm still not sure how we survived those days, three kids on a bike, no helmets, flying down the hill from our house in Belton, MO going as fast as that bike would take us.<br />
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I don't remember anyone helping me balance myself on the bike, learning how to pedal or use the brake. If anyone it would have been my brother. What I do remember is the first time I cruised in front of our house, going just a few houses in either direction, riding in circles. And I recall sitting on the bike at the top of our hill, surmising making that run down the hill by myself and riding back up. With three of us on the bike my sister and I would have to get off and walk up the hill while our brother rode the bike free of the extra weight. Oh how I envied him! I pushed off and rolled faster and faster and faster, the wind cooling my face and blowing my short curly hair into impossible tangles and I didn't care. I pedaled as hard and fast as I could go, down the hill and halfway up the next hill. I had just experienced my first taste of freedom, escaped from our hill, nobody bossing me around or telling me to get off the bike or change seats. I triumphantly turned around and rode back, slowing almost to a dead stop as I huffed and puffed back up our street. Still - I did it and even though I gasped for air, made it to the top and back into our drive.<br />
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Fast forward several years later to the summer before my senior year in high school. I saved my money and bought a 10 speed Schwinn from K-Mart. My parents had moved from 5 acres outside a small farm town in Southwest Missouri into an apartment in Springfield. Mom worked early shifts at a nursing home and Dad had retired. I had to have a means of transportation otherwise I would have to walk a couple of miles to school. Buying a bike solved the problem. I rode that bike all summer long and I rode everywhere. Once again I had regained my freedom and it was deliciously exhilarating. The same feeling that embraced me in 3rd grade was back and it was better than ever! I rode my bike to and from school every day. It was an icebreaker for conversation with a fellow named Bruce who was in my business math class. And when a chick who decided to duck out of school for the day backed into me as she pulled out of her spot in the parking lot, leaving me banged up and bruised, it was Bruce who carried my books to classes for the week following while I carried a pillow for my bruised caboose.<br />
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I'm not sure what happened to that bike after my mid 20's. I rode it around town a few times with my long locks flowing behind me, usually gasping to catch my breath and suddenly more than aware of an uncomfortable seat.<br />
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Years went by, I had three children, worked a stressful job, had gained a lot of weight and I had taken up running. It was killing me. After an incident with my new rescue dog wrapping his leash around my legs as he lunged after my black kitty who decided to go on a midnight walk with us, sending me crashing to the ground on my knees I could no longer run without intense pain and swelling.<br />
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My oldest daughter who was now married suggested I go bike riding with her. I could ride her mountain bike and she would ride her road bike. By the way, she is 5'6" and I barely hit 5'2". You see where this is going, right???<br />
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Our first time out, me being a complete novice, we rode 10 miles. Me on Honorable Daughter #1's mountain bike and she whizzing along on her road bike. It was tough. I grumbled. I huffed. I puffed. I worked HARD! My butt hurt and I wanted to cry. But I was proud of myself for riding 10 miles so I agreed to go again. I wasn't feeling the love and the freedom I felt in 3rd grade and 12th grade. This was much harder work than I remembered. Somehow my daughter convinced me to keep trying.<br />
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Finally I decided to buy my own bike. I wasn't sure what I wanted. I just knew I didn't want a mountain bike. I wanted to be fast like my daughter but I wasn't sure I wanted to commit to the price of a road bike (and it looked daunting) so I settled on a hybrid with front suspension. I rode it a couple of times then took it to a friend's house and asked him to swap out the heavy tires and put road tires on it. I rode it, took it to Cady Way Trail and would meet my daughter at her house near West Orange Trail in Apopka where I became a weekend warrior. I was rediscovering that sense of freedom and relishing the rides.<br />
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About six months into riding the hybrid I had a particularly trying weekend. Personal issues that left me with a sense of betrayal and emotional upheaval. My daughter and her husband came over late Saturday afternoon, she told me to close my eyes, and when she told me to open them there before me was the new love of my life. A beautiful purple Specialized Dolce! I couldn't believe it! I couldn't believe they would give me such a wonderful, splendid, gorgeous and expensive gift. I burst into tears. Tears of joy, gratitude and release of the huge frustration that had been weighing heavily on me.<br />
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That bike saved my life and that is no joke. I found freedom again only I didn't let the wind blow through my hair because I now wore a helmet. My bum no longer hurt because in addition to being gifted this amazing bike I was also given a couple pair of chamois shorts and cute jerseys. There was no choice of going with flat pedals. My son-in-law put his SPD pedals on the bike so off we went to a bike shop to purchase shoes. He even gave me his CatEye computer. I was set to go!<br />
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On the bike I could declutter my mind, push myself harder to overcome stresses and challenges. Sure I crashed with the new pedals and it made me a more mindful cyclist.<br />
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Three years after receiving the bike I took a job in Missouri, packed up my house and left on a new journey. Both bikes hung in the garage for a couple of years. Once in awhile I took one down and rode, but not with the passion I had previously enjoyed.<br />
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When winter settled in I hung up the bikes again. A few years later after meeting someone I pulled the hybrid out and started riding it. Then I started riding it with gusto. Then with determination. 10 miles, 12 miles, 18 miles, 22 miles and the first time I hit 30 miles, Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!<br />
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A few months later I was invited to join a "secret" bike group. By this time I had pulled Stevie, my Specialized Dolce, started riding her again, taught myself to climb hills, rode solo for hundreds of miles on country farm roads. I even got lost a few times and thanks to a somewhat good sense of direction found my way back to my starting point. The bike group though. Wow! I loved them (I STILL love them) as we began new adventures and journeys together.<br />
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Funny how you can think about so much while out on a bike ride. I won't lie - I thought about these things over the course of several hours and more so when putting it to written word. Tomorrow while running Max I'll probably think of more things. Typical.<br />
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'Til next time ~ get on your bike and ride! Find your self, your freedom, your inner kid.<br />
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~ Dottie<br />
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coolbikechickhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16469345175345507344noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-82696892497652570932015-06-08T13:30:00.000-04:002015-06-08T13:41:25.794-04:00That's How We Roll: Top Picks for Upgrading Your Wheels<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/bicycle-wheels-kenneth-walker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/bicycle-wheels-kenneth-walker.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">I</span>f you're looking to upgrade your ride experience, wheels are the biggest change you can make to your bike. It is your connection to the road, the final point of transfer for torque and the only weight that reacts differently to the forward momentum of the bike.<br />
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Want to improve your aerodynamics? Want a drastic change in weight? How about upping your average speed? The best answer to all these steps up is wheels.<br />
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The problem is, after market wheels can range from $350 to over $3,000. Where to make your mark? What's the best bang for your buck? Here are a few options that get our stamp of approval for good money spent to really get you rolling.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please Note:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>hen somebody is looking at wheels, I often tell them, don't look to upgrade from what's on your bike now, look for an upgrade for your next bike. This way, your wheels will gain a longer lifespan because they will be an upgrade that lasts longer than one bike.<br />
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Understand the purpose of the wheels you are looking for. If you are predominantly climbing hills, weight should be a higher priority than aerodynamics. If you are mainly in flat areas you may want a deeper profile wheel to cut through wind resistance.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://brimages.bikeboardmedia.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2013-Specialized-Roval-Rapide-CLX60-aero-road-wheels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://brimages.bikeboardmedia.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/2013-Specialized-Roval-Rapide-CLX60-aero-road-wheels.jpg" height="200" width="157" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beat the competition, not your<br />
wallet with the Rapide CLX 60's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Aero Approach</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>hen you think of a deep-dish wheel options one name comes to mind: <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?type=seqbp&keywordsearch=zipp&catalogid=9999999&sort=items%2Eprice%20desc" target="_blank">Zipp</a>. They are fantastic wheels, but not everyone is ready to spend $2,800. Fear not, <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftb/wheels" target="_blank">Roval</a> is here to help you out. With the <b><a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftb/wheels/roval-road-aeroefficient/roval-rapide-clx-60" target="_blank">Roval Rapide CLX 60</a></b> you get a comparable carbon aero profile, with an overall lighter weight and <br />
much better bearings for $2,200. In fact, <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftb/wheels/roval-road-aeroefficient/roval-rapide-clx-60" target="_blank">Rapide CLX</a>'s come with ceramic bearings (a $600 upgrade on <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?type=seqbp&keywordsearch=zipp&catalogid=9999999&sort=items%2Eprice%20desc" target="_blank">Zipps</a>, bringing their price to $3400). For a full carbon, aero shaped, ceramic bearing wheel, it's hard to beat the <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftb/wheels/roval-road-aeroefficient/roval-rapide-clx-60" target="_blank">Rovals</a> at $2,200.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">For the KOM</span><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiePby8xixsgKKMr0DxbrSmPvaxDkO4Ivbm0ayMAd4eDg7cJy1Lwlpz-fL_-kZp3UfO9Z7_JA8RhauhXDHndffR-rgmkvXs7lR10Hdu8vJSKNWLgqATwAlzLtI6cE3NKHWkwm7zg4n2oc/s1600/325691.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiePby8xixsgKKMr0DxbrSmPvaxDkO4Ivbm0ayMAd4eDg7cJy1Lwlpz-fL_-kZp3UfO9Z7_JA8RhauhXDHndffR-rgmkvXs7lR10Hdu8vJSKNWLgqATwAlzLtI6cE3NKHWkwm7zg4n2oc/s1600/325691.jpg" /></a></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The unique 3-sided cut out profile of the<br />
Ksyrium SL S</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>ant to trade your bike in for a billy goat? Think about the <b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/mavic-ksyrium-sls-wheel-tire-set-184113-1.htm" target="_blank">Mavic Ksyrium SL S</a></b>'s instead. The weight and stiffness combination makes <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/mavic-ksyrium-sls-wheel-tire-set-184113-1.htm" target="_blank">Ksyriums</a> feel like they would rather roll up a hill than down. <a href="http://www.mavic.us/wheel-tyre-system/ism-3d" target="_blank">3D inter spoke milling</a> cuts out any unnecessary weight between the spokes. The <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=mavic&sort=pricedesc&rb_br=48" target="_blank">Mavic</a>'s <br />
aluminum rims have a history of reliability so you won't get stranded on top of the mountain. Being that this is an aluminum wheel, the price point is a little cheaper to turn your bike into a mountain killer, $1150 <b>(with tires!)</b>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Remember: </span><br />
<br />
Wheels are a huge step. Don't be afraid to spend some money to get a set that will last you a long time. It is better to save up some money and get too much wheel than buy a lower priced set that is going to make you want to upgrade again.<br />
<br />
If you have any more questions about wheels or any other bike-related topic, please come by the shop and let us talk your ear off.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-10457390915138065052015-05-31T11:09:00.000-04:002015-06-08T15:26:49.091-04:004 Things You Need Besides Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeR8PQwigD8HITU1n2JkwjIEYaozYreGkLjAT839AHSbQE8F6wT3xcpY4PlhRMyxLRbBLh4MCh5VVN-pT7o7VOr4tPfIqT_90eDgVikSBfuEwD2tEv0J0aQa2Y3QGTslEQOrgAWAWtHs/s1600/4+things2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeR8PQwigD8HITU1n2JkwjIEYaozYreGkLjAT839AHSbQE8F6wT3xcpY4PlhRMyxLRbBLh4MCh5VVN-pT7o7VOr4tPfIqT_90eDgVikSBfuEwD2tEv0J0aQa2Y3QGTslEQOrgAWAWtHs/s1600/4+things2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>hen you bike, you sweat.<br />
When you sweat you need to drink water.<br />
When you drink just water, you need to give your body <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm" target="_blank">electrolytes</a> as well.<br />
"But Why?" You may ask.<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm" target="_blank">Electrolytes</a> are the gate keepers of support materials for a rider's muscles. </b><br />
When you push your muscles you are using up <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm" target="_blank">electrolytes</a> in the process. Wh<span style="font-family: inherit;">en one </span>releases liquid from their body, in any form, it is primarily excess water and electrolytes. <b>So you've got to replenish them!</b><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">I</span>'m going to try to briefly go into how <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm" target="_blank">electrolytes</a> are made but please understand, I am no <a href="http://www.hooverlibrary.org/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/bill-nye-the-science-guy-1.jpg" target="_blank">Bill Nye</a>.There are four things used to make up <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm" target="_blank">electrolytes</a>, <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4496" target="_blank">Sodium, (Na)</a> <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=9998" target="_blank">Potassium, (K)</a>, <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4243" target="_blank">Magnesium (Mg)</a>, and <a href="http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2575" target="_blank">Calcium (Ca)</a>. When any of these elements get diluted in water their ions become charged. All of our cells use that charge as a driving force. </span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>My version: No <a href="http://www.medicinenet.com/electrolytes/article.htm" target="_blank">electrolytes</a>, muscles no move good. </b></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: large;">I</span>f you go to the grocery store and ask "where is your potassium?" I doubt you will get the answer you are looking for. So to help you out we've created a chart of a few of our favorite hydration mixes and their levels of the 4 elements that contribute to electrolytes. Everybody's body is different so you might want to experiment with varying amounts of the elements. Find the levels that work for you and have a great ride!</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><b>BRAND Serving Sodium Potassium Magnesium Calcium</b></u></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=efs&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">EFS</a> </b> 32g 300mg 160mg 150mg 100mg</u></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=skratch&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">Skratch</a></b> 12g 180mg 20mg 6% 2%</u></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><b>Perpetuem</b> 69g 210mg 80mg 8mg 35mg</u></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These are not the end all be all <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0&search=hydration&rb_ct=1149" target="_blank">hydration mixes</a>, just some of our favorites around the shop. Each brand and type have their focus and niche. I suggest doing a little research on a few you may be interested in. This is a great strategy in trying out different <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=nutrition&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">nutrition</a>. My favorite is <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=skratch&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">Skratch</a>, so to talk a little bit more on the topic of hydrating is Aaron from <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=skratch&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">Skratch Labs</a>! </span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/19opqeeMgUs" width="560"></iframe></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #999999;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px;">Keep in mind that your body only keeps stock of what it needs. The best system for hydration does not start during the weekend ride, but the start of the week. The body does not know your future plans and activites so it is only set up for what you are doing currently. This means you should prepare the body to hold more fuel through the week so it is prepared to stock up during your active moments. A combination of exercise and electrolyte </span><span style="line-height: 18px;">consumption days before high levels of activity is best. </span><span style="line-height: 18px;"> </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-59233493422613660092015-05-29T12:03:00.000-04:002019-01-25T14:38:15.962-05:00Medically Based Bike Fitting<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjJFBRr9RmAwuv5XKJRfdKvzdUcIbeAwSJ2pswI5TpeTUCTyurrbK6vs2kN1GHEFxvJJDi86sPjNLVlcvMXSD1gKGoDc0wvQQO7-a-XF8bSK5B7hH-fyBBIWHhQkZLRiX2d2dIp835Ke7/s1600/frame-work-bone-strength.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjJFBRr9RmAwuv5XKJRfdKvzdUcIbeAwSJ2pswI5TpeTUCTyurrbK6vs2kN1GHEFxvJJDi86sPjNLVlcvMXSD1gKGoDc0wvQQO7-a-XF8bSK5B7hH-fyBBIWHhQkZLRiX2d2dIp835Ke7/s320/frame-work-bone-strength.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u>Why should anyone get fit?</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Fit is for everybody, not just the racers.</b> Riding a bike should be fun and pain free, if you only ride a certain distance or you have saddle discomfort or any other discomfort you would benefit from a bike fit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u>So you practice fit at <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/index.cfm?display=entrypage" target="_blank">Orange Cycle</a>, where they use the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">Body Geometry Fit</a> method. What is a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">Body Geometry Fit</a>?</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">Body Geometry Bike Fit</a> is a medically based process, we spend the first hour of your fit learning about your biking and injury history and assessing your goals, then we perform a 22 point inspection of your body to get detailed information of your personal flexibility, skeletal angles and any limitations. With this information we do not have to use averages. Everyone is slightly different. <b>Using your specific information will always be the most detailed and accurate process.</b> After the pre fit assessment, we move through a 15 step process using your body information to fit your bike to you.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u>What kind of training have you had?</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have been through all 3 levels of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/SBCU1" target="_blank">Specialized Bicycles Components University</a>. Each is a hands-on, week-long class in Morgan Hill, California. After completing the 3 levels of education, I was then qualified for the 2-day Certification testing. The testing is designed to be incredibly taxing and a true test of knowledge and practice. I am one of only two Certified <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">Body Geometry Fit</a> Technicians in the state of Florida, and less than 100 nationally. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">All the educational material is a collaboration between <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bikes" target="_blank">Specialized</a> and the <a href="http://www.bcsm.org/about/" target="_blank">Boulder Center for Sports Medicine</a>. Each of my classroom experiences were led by <a href="https://www.bcsm.org/ss-staff/andy-pruitt-pa-c/" target="_blank">Andy Pruitt, PA-C, EdD</a> from the <a href="http://www.bcsm.org/about/" target="_blank">Boulder Center for Sports Medicine</a>. <a href="https://www.bcsm.org/ss-staff/andy-pruitt-pa-c/" target="_blank">Andy Pruitt, PA-C, EdD</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/aapost518" target="_blank">Aaron Post</a> were the Proctors for my Certification Testing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u>What sets the body geometry fit apart from other experiences?</u></i></b></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Because of the medical background of <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">Body Geometry Fit</a> we have more information to work with, we are sometimes making adjustments in 1 or 2 millimeters to get to a pain free position, whereas other computer based systems base their adjustments on averages of maybe 5000 athletes.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YQP3nK16RX2famqqXQ9WZ7nVtUj_HFWEldaP6Z55Cyn2OX2uiEke_nIvxUnG0RPvRIf38CpsO7b8ju_uI8-ligZFRpEEhWDm725-CmSa0lx2LcbiSnkRQj32FkDhEP3zPfL6ZDE_O68i/s1600/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7YQP3nK16RX2famqqXQ9WZ7nVtUj_HFWEldaP6Z55Cyn2OX2uiEke_nIvxUnG0RPvRIf38CpsO7b8ju_uI8-ligZFRpEEhWDm725-CmSa0lx2LcbiSnkRQj32FkDhEP3zPfL6ZDE_O68i/s400/FullSizeRender+%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Orange Cycle Fit Studio feels more like a doctor's office than<br />
a part of a bike shop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A good example of this is if you had identical twins same height and weight but one had tight hamstrings limiting forward flexion, they would be unable to ride the same height on their handlebars but a system based on averages would have them in the same position. <b>We are all individuals and our bike fits should be also. </b></span></div>
<br />
<b><i><u>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">Body Geometry Fit</a> make a rider faster?</span></u></i></b><br />
<b><i><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></i></b>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes. We make all the adjustments on the bike based on your pre fit assessment. We are looking to place you in a comfortable, neutral position but, most times the benefit is being stronger on your bike.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u>What is the role of technology in the fit studio?</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">People fit people not computers, you cannot tell a computer the position it has created for you is uncomfortable. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We must use technology as a tool paired with the use of our knowledge and experience. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyone using a computer-based system can position the rider using the numbers on the monitor, but the rider can still feel uncomfortable. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biomechanics" target="_blank">Biomechanics</a> and knowledge of human <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinesiology" target="_blank">kinesiology</a> are essential. For example, if you don't know that the person your working with has one leg longer than the other, or a hip impingement, or a hip rotation, we cannot help with any discomfort they are feeling on the bike due to the lack of knowledge about the causes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u>I Heard you recently got another accolade to improve your services...</u></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am always looking for ways to improve my knowledge, so I recently became a certified personal trainer, this has helped improve my <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinesiology" target="_blank">kinesiology</a> and increase my depth of knowledge of the muscle skeletal system.</span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-84639891617481733352014-05-05T18:40:00.000-04:002014-05-05T18:41:45.918-04:00Confessions: Christine's Body Geometry Fit<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdkoqCRZP1KGBxuBVJWkEcnB1aSJil_oTqkHe8JwgrJ_YPEMqAqkPYvLIfVAqo_E5omXXeo7uk6DR1B0lib0kz7btFa61fuQb9x9XMFFQFmU8pCZIz_rhwRhdcobWfUkD_Qi5eiVryKCR/s1600/1609585_10151835209346333_1286758786_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQdkoqCRZP1KGBxuBVJWkEcnB1aSJil_oTqkHe8JwgrJ_YPEMqAqkPYvLIfVAqo_E5omXXeo7uk6DR1B0lib0kz7btFa61fuQb9x9XMFFQFmU8pCZIz_rhwRhdcobWfUkD_Qi5eiVryKCR/s1600/1609585_10151835209346333_1286758786_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">I</span> have discussed the importance of having your bicycle fit to your body. I have touched on what it means to be a fitter but there's one<span style="font-family: inherit;"> important perspective t</span>hat has not been expressed: What is it like to go through a Body Geometry Fit?<br />
<br />
Our newest employee, <span style="font-size: large;">Christine</span>, recently had her bike fitted to her and I asked her to say a few words about the process:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">I have a confession.</span> Years after purchasing my first bike-store quality bike, I still hadn't made the important investment in a proper fitting.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Some History</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span>
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I'm a Bike enthusiast who enjoys a bike ride because it's the closest I can be to acting like a 10-year-old. I'm also a middle of the pack, age group, triathlete. I own many bells and whistles - fancy, carbon fiber frames, carbon Zipp wheels, power meter, Di2 Electronic shifting, all top of the line stuff, yet<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">here I was, the start of my 7th year without a proper bike fit.</span></div>
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Recently, I realized I wasn't as comfortable riding. My bike was dictating how long my ride would be, instead of the other way around. It was time to take action.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I</span> was skeptical about the true benefit of the fit process. Could a couple of centimeter adjustments here and there really make me more comfortable?<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>How It Went Down</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">T</span>he process itself is so simple and enjoyable I felt as though my bike and I spent some time together at a spa. Initially, I spoke to the fitter, I'll call him John Hollingsworth (because that's his name) about my riding style and what I wanted to accomplish. I explained that I wanted to go further and stay comfortable. He then conducted some range of motion assessments and took some relative measurements.<br />
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I quickly noticed that <span style="font-size: large;">attention to detail is key</span> to the Body Geometry fit process. Everything was taken into account, down to the length of my leg bones.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">S</span>ome of the major factors that were addressed were my knee angle going from an under-utilized 22 degrees to a perfect 30 degree extension. My reach was shortened to increase control and weight distribution. Both adjustments made a serious impact on my level of comfort. Shoes are also a part of the equation. My cleats have been adjusted and John recommended an impressive Body Geometry insole which adds some much needed arch support to straighten knee rotation. All the information is compiled and used to adjust the bike to me.
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<span style="font-size: large;">A</span> bike is a wonderful invention, offering something for, quite literally, everyone. As a young child, it's a right of passage to learn to ride all by yourself. Later, we use bikes to get to friends or school. Bikes to commute, get exercise, challenge ourselves against ourselves, or even against our friends. Young and old, fit and those who aim to be, commuters and enthusiasts all have a bike. If you've made the investment in a great bike, <span style="font-size: large;">you also deserve the bike to fit you</span> the way it was intended.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A</span>s if the fit process weren't enough, the very best part is the result!I feel so in tune with my bike, it's like a whole new experience. Better yet, a new bike which was made just for me. I'm pushing the mileage and remaining comfortable. You truly don't know how much fun you are missing by riding a bike and not having it fitted properly to your body.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/BtjQPdFz25E" width="560"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-81248050419877814202014-01-22T17:46:00.000-05:002014-01-22T17:46:41.219-05:00Battle Royal: Mio VS Polar RC3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.24hourturnaround.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/runner-heartrate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.24hourturnaround.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/runner-heartrate.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">T</span>echnology has never been so prevalent in this sport we love. At one point everyone would ride bikes to get away from numbers and expectations. Then everyone needed to know how fast they are going, then how far they have gone. Now it didn't count unless the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=gps&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">GPS</a> map of your ride with heart rate, climb and slope was shared on STRAVA.<br />
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With all these additional bells and whistles available, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=heart+rate&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">heart rate</a> is something we at the shop take very seriously. If your speed is off, your map doesn't quite nail down the mileage or your watts are slightly inaccurate, it's easy to calibrate or compensate to correct. One's <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=heart+rate&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">heart rate</a> is a constant. There is no inaccurate<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=heart+rate&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank"> heart rate</a>, only inaccurate readings. Not to mention it is often a matter of staying healthy or pushing one's body too hard. Needless to say, it needs to be dead on.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Contenders </b></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://store.racerxvt.com/static/uploads/a8bd96c97699cd7c94ed71371874568a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://store.racerxvt.com/static/uploads/a8bd96c97699cd7c94ed71371874568a.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Polar RC3 and sensor</td></tr>
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<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=polar&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">Polar</a> has been a long time standard of the store due to its medical grade heart rate. Instead of relying on algorithms from every third recorded thump, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=polar&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">Polar</a> records every up, down and valley in between of one's heart rate. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gearpatrol.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Mio-Alpha-Heart-Rate-Monitor-Gear-Patrol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://gearpatrol.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Mio-Alpha-Heart-Rate-Monitor-Gear-Patrol.jpg" height="153" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mio Alpha Sport Watch</td></tr>
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Mio is the new kid on the block. It is one of the first to implement an infrared sensor to read heart rate through the wrist. This is a big deal because before this, if an athlete wanted to check their respective lubs and dubs they required a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=chest+strap&goSiteSearch.x=0&goSiteSearch.y=0" target="_blank">chest strap</a>.<br />
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The only controversy of the strapless method that Mio promotes is that it has only been proven accurate at a resting heart rate. Due to the faster pace and sporadic nature of cardio, the more exertion the body is put under, the more inaccurate it becomes. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Show Down</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>e wanted to check for ourselves. So we sent Neal to do his normal work out with a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-rc3-gps-hr-192515-1.htm" target="_blank">Polar RC3</a> featuring medical-grade heart rate and a Mio Alpha to see how close they were. The idea being that the Polar is completely correct, and how well does the Mio hold up? The results were impressive.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5rGDLigfmvK59awU2TIn-mOExCNWlw6_yd3mJ3SwTs7G_CxsnRF3y6-mUiqVwdgbgGlC7IweXIvxjy2gdsR9D0Omnuc_v1HxWMolJ49qoeJE5k_64I1S3I8sVqpOKMgIN73B-Ih6JOlL/s1600/IMG_1463+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic5rGDLigfmvK59awU2TIn-mOExCNWlw6_yd3mJ3SwTs7G_CxsnRF3y6-mUiqVwdgbgGlC7IweXIvxjy2gdsR9D0Omnuc_v1HxWMolJ49qoeJE5k_64I1S3I8sVqpOKMgIN73B-Ih6JOlL/s1600/IMG_1463+(1).jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">C</span>learly the Mio didn't quite match up to Neal's needs. Over 50 bpm off of medical grade readings. If you need to monitor your heart rate while watching a movie or reading I'm sure the Mio will be more than adequate. However, most people interested in heart rate need to know it during physical exertion which just happens to be the weakest point for Mio. If you want to listen to your body, get a product that can really listen. </div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-36950554336711437302013-12-06T16:17:00.001-05:002013-12-07T10:51:56.021-05:00Review: Polar Loop, For the 'Rest' of the time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4FskODX-jxhOEiMGCdjgOHYCD-SZaEiU6n56XJfZj6-Qg4Gn4AlnxKXwYlIVTiXWTZKPR3BgqVRcD4w7Pis5JALOErt9idQnE7Uw-wy1BQPrZhawDcL9l6pF-9rvKR2o1av7mgFyx3iF/s1600/retrieve_image.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4FskODX-jxhOEiMGCdjgOHYCD-SZaEiU6n56XJfZj6-Qg4Gn4AlnxKXwYlIVTiXWTZKPR3BgqVRcD4w7Pis5JALOErt9idQnE7Uw-wy1BQPrZhawDcL9l6pF-9rvKR2o1av7mgFyx3iF/s320/retrieve_image.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheetah" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">C</span>heetahs</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greyhound" target="_blank">greyhounds</a> are built very similarly. Both are built for very high speeds. Both also have very long rest times throughout the day. Due to their high metabolism and low body fat that is crucial to their speed, the longevity of their speed is limited at best. Cheetahs have a max speed of 70-75 mph but a max distance of 1,600 feet. The greyhound has a max speed of 43 mph (second only to the cheetah) and a max distance of 820 feet.<br />
Humans are not built like cheetahs or greyhounds, but many people take their riding with very similar procedures. While a rider may average 20-25 mph for 3 hours, they may also be sitting behind a desk for the rest of the day. This is not how our bodies effectively perform and that rider may be stunting his progress and performance.<br />
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I'm sure the initial response everyone is having is "I need to rest!" or <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l8QBju_Q7u8" target="_blank">"I cannot type while on a treadmill!"</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.bcbst.com/health-wellness/getting-fit/easy-ways-to-add-steps.page?" target="_blank">Blue Cross Blue Shield</a> states that the average adult should take 10,000 steps a day to ensure an active lifestyle. This can be achieved by parking farther away, using the restroom on a different floor of your office building, taking the stairs, there are many easy options.<br />
<b>The best tool to keep track of your daily activity is the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Polar Loop</a>.</b> I know now-a-days everyone can find a pedometer from Big Lots. And there is a lot of high-end wrist-jewelry that will tell you your heart rate, sleep patterns and what you're about to think. Both these devices are not the best options and I'll tell you why.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">P</span>edometers are based on gyroscopes. Missing key information like time of activity and skewing numbers with improper gyroscope readings from shifting weight while sitting. Walking is not measured from one's hip,<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://medgadgets.ru/shop/media/wysiwyg/11/Flow_Web_Service_calendar_activity_thumb.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://medgadgets.ru/shop/media/wysiwyg/11/Flow_Web_Service_calendar_activity_thumb.png" width="243" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Polar Loop's website. You can't get this kind of<br />
info from a pedometer.</td></tr>
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it's measured through actual movement.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">T</span>he abundance of all-day measurement devices on the market today shows that the technology to produce one is not hard to find. However it is hard to do correctly. infrared heart rate is designed to be used while the body is in a resting position only, and gets more inaccurate the more active the wearer is. It can be up to 30bpm off. When dealing with a number that is anywhere from 40-60 bpm to 170-190, 30 bpm is a pretty huge variable.<br />
Also, there is no combination of technical data and algorithms that can effectively tell anyone about personal sleep patterns without including variables so large, they practically make the information void. If sleep studies could be done without the hundred wires stuck all over the patient's body and the node-covered skull cap, don't you think they would offer that option?<br />
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<b>The <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Polar</a> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a> is an activity monitor that does not promise anything except reliable and effective information.</b> It is to take control of your day, in it's entirety. This makes sense for everyone. For the most active athlete, it is imperative to keep their body in effective shape, which means a healthy level of activity. For the not-so-athletic person, it is helpful to ensure they are being healthy without requiring a sport or too much additional effort. It is also the only method of measurement backed by<a href="https://www.bcbst.com/health-wellness/getting-fit/easy-ways-to-add-steps.page?" target="_blank"> Blue Cross Blue Shield</a> to improve one's level of daily activity.<br />
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When you wear a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Polar</a> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a> it uses 3D <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Accelerometer" target="_blank">accelerometers</a> to measure 360 degrees of movement. It also uses a dual-coil system to measure actual movement of travel, not just the back and forth rotation of your arm. Basically, it can tell when you sit, stand, when you are walking, when you're jogging and when you're just standing in an elevator.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dcrainmaker.com/images/2013/09/IMG_2659_thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://www.dcrainmaker.com/images/2013/09/IMG_2659_thumb.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Level up by adding medical<br />
grade heart rate.</td></tr>
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By combining this information with your age, weight, and height it provides an average of calories you have burned, and how active you have been during that day. It also provides amounts of different activities the wearer can do to complete a healthy level of activity. If you want to really dial your numbers in, you can add a bluetooth equipped H7 heart rate strap to equip the Loop with medical-grade heart rate.<br />
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Due to it's simple design and display, it is water proof and holds a long battery life.<br />
The <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a> charges via USB and also downloads all of your information to the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Polar</a> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a> website. It gives you day-to-day productivity and an ever changing list of many different activities to improve your lifestyle such as badminton, jogging, even doing the dishes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dcrainmaker.com/images/2013/09/Flow_Mobile_App_today_activity_clock_thumb.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.dcrainmaker.com/images/2013/09/Flow_Mobile_App_today_activity_clock_thumb.png" width="121" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The app is not only<br />
helpful, but colorful!</td></tr>
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I preferred the app to log my progress. With a bluetooth connection, the app can let you know how active you've been on a 5 point scale, from resting to running, and when the activity took place. <b>It also has the ability to remind you when you have been inactive for too long with phone-based alarms.</b><br />
Working in retail, and biking as a life-consuming hobby, I considered myself to have a fairly healthy lifestyle. But it only took a couple of days wearing the Loop to find out that I was not as healthy throughout my day as I thought. It pushed me to change habits so I would be more active and, in turn, had a happier general outlook as well as a better sleep pattern.<br />
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It comes with a cut-to-fit locking strap to ensure a comfortable fit that is not cumbersome. There is even a easy measuring tool that comes with the Loop to guarantee the right fit.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>hile the person looking for extremely detailed information of their activity, usually provided by equipment like a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/garmin-forerunner-910xt-triathlon-bundle-182796-1.htm" target="_blank">Garmin 910</a> or <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-rcx5-gps-192506-1.htm" target="_blank">Polar RCX5</a>, may find the Loop a bit lacking, such competition is not Polar's goal. <b>They set out to create an easy, automatic method of tracking and improving one's general activity throughout the day. I'd say that's exactly what they achieved.</b><br />
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Our price for a<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank"> Polar</a> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a> is $99.99 Not bad when you consider it's $40 - $700 for the few hours with a cycling specific computer. With a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a> you are taking control of the other 9 hours in the day!<br />
<b>For more information about the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Polar</a> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Loop</a>, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/polar-loop-18365.htm" target="_blank">Click Here!</a> </b><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-15599521671769067722013-11-25T13:11:00.004-05:002015-06-08T13:55:15.129-04:00Certified, Level 2 and other Titles You Should Know when getting Fit<div style="text-align: right;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDCHEjV3LG3tmD9Lql_rrQ4QL9lthWtPesoOJjMlWY7DW-VCykYKTzsnOl3PFz0TKAyF_F8222ylSt59-qcIDuK8nyFV2vX6f3da2qbiKiQ55UIpPRCIvb4-s3cyaeosZulGXxgTe4SYOX/s1600/thijs_and_neal_caught.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDCHEjV3LG3tmD9Lql_rrQ4QL9lthWtPesoOJjMlWY7DW-VCykYKTzsnOl3PFz0TKAyF_F8222ylSt59-qcIDuK8nyFV2vX6f3da2qbiKiQ55UIpPRCIvb4-s3cyaeosZulGXxgTe4SYOX/s320/thijs_and_neal_caught.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thijs and Neal showing off their expertise</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">W</span><b>e are proud to announce that Thijs Schutte has passed his Body Geometry Certification Exam! </b><br />
We are so proud and excited for his hard work and the continuation of our quality bike fit service. For as much as we are excited, many of you are indifferent and confused. Bicycle fit as an educated service is very new, starting around 2005. When people hear somebody is a doctor or surgeon, they understand the level of expertise that comes with said title. A "Master" or Certified fitter does not carry the same understanding. Because of this, many shops say offer a fit service, not only without any training but often times incorrect results. Many cyclists end up paying significant amounts of money and receive debilitating results. So I'm here to clear it up!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMl8kKg2_vQLI6t3ica_fe9VMbXfimsLvUqdyyusH4S3_x29DOlrpKClfTaYAFaOQBiG_tWIQRJAhfAwBuUVeC-SGR9MLgn0DgwTIlcrZKogVhO9WTMxRqiLkYEjC4jw5wMyFztcgOuBMj/s1600/fit_tools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMl8kKg2_vQLI6t3ica_fe9VMbXfimsLvUqdyyusH4S3_x29DOlrpKClfTaYAFaOQBiG_tWIQRJAhfAwBuUVeC-SGR9MLgn0DgwTIlcrZKogVhO9WTMxRqiLkYEjC4jw5wMyFztcgOuBMj/s200/fit_tools.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tools of the trade</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/hub/bgfit" target="_blank">Body Geometry</a> is the gold standard of bicycle fit. Focusing on a neutral body position based on the rider's flexibility, strength and style of riding. It was not only the first uniform fit system but also the only process focused on a rider's anatomy.<br />
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Educating the fit staff in what the rider's body is doing while on the bike is the focus of<a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/hub/bgfit" target="_blank"> Body Geometry fit</a> and the only way to know what directions to adjust the bicycle.<br />
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Here is a brief history and explanation of the Body Geometry Fit program from the creator, Dr. Andy Pruitt.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/SFeS2i8dKW8" width="560"></iframe>
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Within Body Geometry there are three levels. After completing the first <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/hub/bgfit" target="_blank">Body Geometry Fit</a> course, one is qualified as a fit technician. Once a substantial amount of fittings have been submitted back to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SBCUUSA" target="_blank">SBCU (Specialized Bicycle Components University)</a>, to ensure the quality of service, the fit technician may then go for their Level II education, or his "Masters." This is a more in depth look at the anatomy, common medical complications and solutions.<br />
Now a level II fit technician, after a similar amount of quality monitoring, they can take their certification test. There is no more education to gain at certification, only a rigorous practicum and written exam. The process is so challenging, only 100 fit technicians in the entire world have achieved this title. Only two fit techs in Florida are certified, John B. Hollingsworth and Thijs Schutte and they both work at our shop. <br />
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If you are having pains while riding your bike, want to prevent pain from rearing its head, or want to make sure every part of your body is working to go faster, schedule a fit with our knowledgeable and extremely well educated staff!<br />
<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">More info on our Body Geometry Fit</a><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-30830104791485196472013-11-04T15:33:00.002-05:002013-11-04T15:33:42.836-05:00A is for Aero<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinS73QHE4UEQHgNR6Z7pEcwHU-u4POdvrHE1u7rRXVT7iAx4lhD13Y8w8LawN5Y3gAXp0H_4kqmYX_Cc_tpAskTNu8dkXeD-JWeHe7OsqrTOcP1CXrVq8oB4IbUHPrYMFvn_mVxPk_UVNG/s1600/photo+(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinS73QHE4UEQHgNR6Z7pEcwHU-u4POdvrHE1u7rRXVT7iAx4lhD13Y8w8LawN5Y3gAXp0H_4kqmYX_Cc_tpAskTNu8dkXeD-JWeHe7OsqrTOcP1CXrVq8oB4IbUHPrYMFvn_mVxPk_UVNG/s400/photo+(9).JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite the results, I feel the cape makes me faster.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">M</span>any cyclists look at the weight of their bike meticulously. Most are in denial of their 'weight weenie' status<br />
but will pay hundreds more for grams of difference. Likewise, there is a large group of riders that could ace many medical tests due to their research and focus on their nutrition. However, when looking at the aerodynamics of a rider, there is a stigma of being a last resort, or "too expensive" to be worth the aid.<br />
Everybody put on your helmets because you're mind is about to be blown:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Aerodynamics is the most effective advancement a rider can make.</span><br />
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Now for the nay-sayers who are yelling things like "Well it only helps above 20 mph!" or "The added weight makes the aero shapes ineffective!" Stop shouting at your computer, I can't hear you.<br />
Myself and Neal were fortunate enough to do some work in Specialized's brand new wind tunnel in Morgan Hill, California. Approximately 4 hours of work, which worked out to roughly $9,000 of time and expertise in the facility.<br />
We were there focusing on change of body position. To see if a more "aero" position was more important to the area of resistance than the loss of power from losing a neutral fit. <b>Working with a caliber of engineers that routinely get called by NASA for help is humbling, to say the least.</b> To say we learned a lot would be an understatement.<br />
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Here are a couple of things we learned: <b>Aerodynamic drag is not relative to the rider's speed.</b> While I'm sure many people feel the difference around 20 mph, wind resistance is impeding your performance the same at every speed. In fact, many of the engineers argued that because you are spending more time from A to B in the air-based resistance at lower speeds, it is actually effecting you more.<br />
While aero equipment does end up being slightly heavier than non-winged products, weight resistance is constantly reduced by momentum, where air resistance is actually heightened by acceleration. <br />
The biggest take home was a staggering number of how much resistance was wind-based.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">On average, 70% of a cyclist's resistance is from the air.</span><br />
As much as 50% (35% of the whole) of that resistance could be from the rider themselves.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What does this tell us?</span><br />
Aerodynamics is a huge part of what can make you go faster and keep you going faster. Especially in a state where our hills come as gusts from either coast.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Best Bang for your Buck</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">W</span>ith many companies realizing the importance of being "wind-minded," there is very good new on the horizon: equipment upgrades can be more effective for less money. When you hear aero a lot of people think of a full aero frame such as a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-486&goSiteSearch.y=-281" target="_blank">Specialized Shiv</a>, or carbon wheels like<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?type=seqbp&keywordsearch=zipp&catalogid=9999999&sort=items%2Eprice%20desc" target="_blank"> Zipp 404</a>'s and their hopes of cutting through wind are dashed by the price tags of these items. But if you're just looking for improvement in performace, you don't have to get the high ticket items.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.slowtwitch.com/articles/images/3/79473-large_JordanRappTunnel6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://www.slowtwitch.com/articles/images/3/79473-large_JordanRappTunnel6.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Evade, scientifically proven to be effective. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftr/helmets/road-helmets/sworks-evade" target="_blank">Specialized Evade</a></b><br />
The first upgrade recommended is an aero helmet. The <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftr/helmets/road-helmets/sworks-evade" target="_blank">Specialized Evade</a> has had more wind tunnel tested results than most bikes. Switching your helmet to a less turbulent model, like the <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftr/helmets/road-helmets/sworks-evade" target="_blank">Evade</a>, actually helps a rider as much as a set of <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?type=seqbp&keywordsearch=zipp&catalogid=9999999&sort=items%2Eprice%20desc" target="_blank">Zipp 404</a>'s. When compared to <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?type=seqbp&keywordsearch=zipp&catalogid=9999999&sort=items%2Eprice%20desc" target="_blank">Zipp 404</a>'s price tag of $2700, the <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftr/helmets/road-helmets/sworks-evade" target="_blank">Evade's</a> $250 price seems like a steal!<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bmctempo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/wind-tunnel-issue1-hero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.bmctempo.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/wind-tunnel-issue1-hero.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pearl used the BMC pro team as<br />tests for their fabrics</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=p.r.o.&rb_ct=1194&rb_br=32" target="_blank">Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Fabric</a></b><br />
The cut of a rider's apparel, along with the fabric it is composed of is another big factor .<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=p.r.o.&rb_ct=1194&rb_br=32" target="_blank">Pearl Izumi</a> P.R.O. Aero fabric is dimpled, much like a golf ball, to reduce drag by 8%. A huge advantage for a small <br />
step up in price.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAORSpAx4uC1NwJNbW0M5uWY9Dp3YCZpBWAr0kNEUoi5MQKGvcCsk_s9C-d2sKSTiCmsEaV_KKduV0Oze9WzQYtX8H87tmXnuzktx6PpPuOANzsD6NB8WOgBwFaIs8ZKRWqMbQlIDbC_L/s1600/photo+(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAORSpAx4uC1NwJNbW0M5uWY9Dp3YCZpBWAr0kNEUoi5MQKGvcCsk_s9C-d2sKSTiCmsEaV_KKduV0Oze9WzQYtX8H87tmXnuzktx6PpPuOANzsD6NB8WOgBwFaIs8ZKRWqMbQlIDbC_L/s320/photo+(8).JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neal's entire upper body became more aerodynamic after<br />his Body Geometry Fit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;">The Most Help You can get</span><br />
Pertaining more to why we were there, the other major aero difference was made by having the bike <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">correctly fit to the rider</a>. When you are forcing your body to hold a position it isn't happy with, it is visible in the shape of the rider. It shows itself by bulging, contorting and compromising your naturally smooth position. It is of the utmost importance to be fit by somebody who is listening to your body and finding where it is the most aero, not by angles of the bike, but by anatomical construction and flexibility. This is the only way to find your personal level of aerodynamics and, subsequently, comfort.<br />
To learn more about our fit program here at the shop, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank">click here.</a><br />
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<b>If you have any questions about these products, or want to know more about our<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank"> Body Geometry Fit</a> program please contact us or call the shop!</b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-45320932983282923502013-10-21T13:32:00.000-04:002013-10-21T13:37:31.108-04:002014 Specialized S-Works Shiv: The Batman Bike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4KCPk_zvGEHyHCk32W3vLLC7k5bnQoqDeYVGSFGNzIJ0DfV-DVAI2-21lOGTMhTQCfE295yXzxVKAWKYog4u_E_b5C0NdKcTd-vpie62zdGPykPpEyxfNMjCItN4Qs98Lu9Zriey4uRh/s1600/photo+(18).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4KCPk_zvGEHyHCk32W3vLLC7k5bnQoqDeYVGSFGNzIJ0DfV-DVAI2-21lOGTMhTQCfE295yXzxVKAWKYog4u_E_b5C0NdKcTd-vpie62zdGPykPpEyxfNMjCItN4Qs98Lu9Zriey4uRh/s400/photo+(18).JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">F</span>ew bikes turn heads quite like the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=Shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-198&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Specialized S-Works Shiv</a>. Looking closer to a pedal-powered stealth bomber than a bicycle, there is little mistaking it. The 2014 model does not stop at appearances. We built up the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=Shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-198&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Specialized 2014 S-Works Shiv</a> module as a dream triathlon bike and, not-surprisingly, it ended up almost identical to the complete model.<br />
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The first thing that stops everyone is the unique shape of the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=Shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-198&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Shiv</a>. Entirely based on wind tunnel testing, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=specialized&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-35" target="_blank">Specialized</a> created a shape optimized for cross winds. The frame is comprised of 11r carbon with FACT IS construction, which means it's as stiff and responsive as the stealth fighter it resembles.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkDBFmEdDDQvrtekraIq2qnR0jotWS93xzFZAKuS_-BPzbyhijKmK0KtrJiYUn9f67uaih0qXoyLW3RieWzkYDofGkY_vacZyWxU3-v-TAEutzqC82lQPxK1FgnR83H4QOtzKtPEDZpfe/s1600/photo+(17).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilkDBFmEdDDQvrtekraIq2qnR0jotWS93xzFZAKuS_-BPzbyhijKmK0KtrJiYUn9f67uaih0qXoyLW3RieWzkYDofGkY_vacZyWxU3-v-TAEutzqC82lQPxK1FgnR83H4QOtzKtPEDZpfe/s200/photo+(17).JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fuel Cell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Within the main triangle of the bike, the new <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftr/swat-technology/road-swat-technology/fuelcell-aero-storage" target="_blank">Fuel Cell</a> keeps nutrition prepped for mid-ride consumption and provides storage that actually adds to the aero shape of the bike, rather than fight it. The commanding down tube houses a water bladder that can be accessed from a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=camelbak&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">camelbak</a>-like tube just behind the cockpit. The more time a triathlete can hold the aero position, the bigger their advantage becomes. These support features help to stay effective through more of the race.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPAYap5QdnZTwxypDjJKENAy5oxT9APZB_eeICWNKJZk_6JrbYAoE3n9Obso4tOIaJz3TiI0PDxPFX2GLvqfw-RObfRAUzXTkozmdTITADbK-eAiUfC2k1n4NuXwPqzBLPtySfcfYM28v/s1600/photo+(14).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggPAYap5QdnZTwxypDjJKENAy5oxT9APZB_eeICWNKJZk_6JrbYAoE3n9Obso4tOIaJz3TiI0PDxPFX2GLvqfw-RObfRAUzXTkozmdTITADbK-eAiUfC2k1n4NuXwPqzBLPtySfcfYM28v/s320/photo+(14).JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first TRUE "One size fits all" setup</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While many brands lump triathlon-specific frames with designs meant for time trials, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=specialized&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-35" target="_blank">Specialized</a> understands that it is a completely different sport, with different requirements of the athlete. The<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/bike-fit-pg769.htm" target="_blank"> Body Geometry</a> fit staff had a large influence on designing, not only the geometry of the frame but the flexible modulation of the cockpit.<br />
Though comfort rarely seems to be considered for time trials, it is paramount for triathlons. Extra stress caused by a non-comfort based position on the bike can not only rob the rider of speed during the bike section but also impede muscle groups during the run. Passing competition on the swim or bike sections of the race doesn't matter if they pass you during the run.<br />
Every angle of the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Shiv</a> cockpit is adjustable to guarantee an effective body placement. Not to mention the reversible set back seat post as well as the second position seat post included with the module. There are so many minor adjustments available each S-Works <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Shiv</a> comes with a full spread of bolts, risers and shims.<br />
The new Specialized Body Geometry <a href="http://www.specialized.com/us/en/ftb/saddles/roadtriathlon-saddles/sitero-pro" target="_blank">Sitero</a> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306&search=specialized&rb_ct=1084" target="_blank">saddle</a> is the perfect compliment to the "comfort equals effective" position.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVA8XzxTAq53uyNzXjPZqu4hZVD3sc9rwkZu0uXr0L0dvZkR0T51BbEeIBJYMzCWMlADReis-MM0xNUzD0oGmwXy2ztn4Nrm5mUA8HPTGQXzEy0tsICOZzxX0Fnr8xU5Rnr8J3TkrG4DJn/s1600/photo+(19).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVA8XzxTAq53uyNzXjPZqu4hZVD3sc9rwkZu0uXr0L0dvZkR0T51BbEeIBJYMzCWMlADReis-MM0xNUzD0oGmwXy2ztn4Nrm5mUA8HPTGQXzEy0tsICOZzxX0Fnr8xU5Rnr8J3TkrG4DJn/s200/photo+(19).JPG" width="200" /></a>This model comes with 11 speed <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=di2&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Shimano Dura Ace Di2</a>. It seems to make sense if you've got the best <br />
frame on the market, might as well give it the best components. With it's self trim, automatic crash protections (if you fall, it attempts to save itself!) and the ability to manually adjust while still riding, it's no wonder why <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=di2&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Dura Ace Di2</a> is quickly becoming the new standard of "Top of the line."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdgvDlWhSFykZUwVAAbOcjU40f2TQeB6Z9bRv1qxh4cGKIzKaSYXwv5ZDMq8dLcBQUmBtbjp0ahlDP_O6SqTN1ZNtsCfICh8T7sE76nXfeBfu8vSSmIaD_fxQvDpCRYWY8DHwV1Nz-urI/s1600/photo+(15).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQdgvDlWhSFykZUwVAAbOcjU40f2TQeB6Z9bRv1qxh4cGKIzKaSYXwv5ZDMq8dLcBQUmBtbjp0ahlDP_O6SqTN1ZNtsCfICh8T7sE76nXfeBfu8vSSmIaD_fxQvDpCRYWY8DHwV1Nz-urI/s200/photo+(15).JPG" width="200" /></a>The icing on the top of this bike comes in the form of Magura RT8TT brakes. Hydraulic rim brakes with carbon levers that give a brand new level of control. The hydraulic rim system more than compensates for any lack of control due to carbon stopping surfaces in less than optimal conditions. The levers have cutaways, optimizing aero dynamics on the forefront of the bike.<br />
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Like all S-Works frames, the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=shiv&goSiteSearch.x=-189&goSiteSearch.y=-306" target="_blank">Shiv</a> is stocked with the new 2014 S-Works carbon crank, one of the stiffest per weight on the market. We wanted to pair them with their cousins, the<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/roval-rapide-clx-40-wheelset-181074-1.htm" target="_blank"> Roval Rapide CLX</a> 60 wheel set due to their stock CeramicSpeed bearings and 1,495g weight but had to settle for <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?type=seqbp&keywordsearch=zipp&catalogid=9999999&sort=items%2Eprice%20desc" target="_blank">Zipp (404 Firecrest front and 808 Firescrest rear)</a>. I think it came out alright. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYeyJ1-lagHg79Hi7sHkScS_cB_yMTQ6gpWJQqj90S0eQfpeOlzQYaQtT2pD4zchZAPGJJQ-e7r3UV5lrguoWIFJFcbhTiBSLUPV6_6h0UMe5dk1JlbcoEsPqX0Rw2FUGYgike_Pwalt09/s1600/photo+(16).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYeyJ1-lagHg79Hi7sHkScS_cB_yMTQ6gpWJQqj90S0eQfpeOlzQYaQtT2pD4zchZAPGJJQ-e7r3UV5lrguoWIFJFcbhTiBSLUPV6_6h0UMe5dk1JlbcoEsPqX0Rw2FUGYgike_Pwalt09/s200/photo+(16).JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zipp, Di2 and S-Works.<br />
Definitely drool worthy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Saddly, this bike has already left the store. But if you are interested in any level of the Shiv please let us know! Or stop by the shop.<br />
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Here's a great video explaining a little more about the Shiv and it's superior technology:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/W_JVOWaP_Gs" width="560"></iframe>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-84917836153671054352013-09-27T12:07:00.002-04:002013-09-27T12:10:00.573-04:00About to Break: are You Prepared for Cold?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tucsonvelo.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/snowmanbike.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://tucsonvelo.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/snowmanbike.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
"But you live in Florida!" Is the response I always get, each season when conversations regarding cold-weather cycling clothes come around. However, talk to any serious athlete and they would tell you the key to staving off injury and ensuring a healthy expenditure of energy is treating your body right and giving it what it needs. This might not always be what your head convinces you is the best plan of action.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't Trust the Weather Man</span></div>
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While all the apps in the world might project the temperature for the morning ride to be 65F, they are not calculating any wind chill from you moving on your bike. Just because you roll your bike out and aren't shivering doesn't mean you are experiencing the actual temperature while riding. Through the colder months it takes experience and listening to your body to know the best way to compensate.<br />
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<a href="http://stpetehipandknee.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/patellar-tendinitis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://stpetehipandknee.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/patellar-tendinitis.jpg" width="185" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes</span> </div>
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There are several major places on a cyclists body that can be negatively effected by cold weather riding. Your joints can be negatively effected by the cold, even if your mind tells you it is not cold out. High-stress joints, such as one's <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Knee_cap" target="_blank">patella area (knee cap)</a> do not have much blood flow and take longer to warm up. So even if your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Core_(anatomy)" target="_blank">core</a>,<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quadriceps_femoris_muscle" target="_blank"> quads</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutes" target="_blank">glutes</a> are feeling great, you could still be adding stress on your body because of how far behind your knee cap is in the warm up process.</div>
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In fact, a good rule of thumb is<b> "70 degrees, cover your knees."</b> Don't believe me? Think this is ridiculous? Well let me throw some science at you! The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patellar_ligament" target="_blank">patella tendon</a> goes right over the knee cap. Because of the lack of blood flow and the poor positioning in the wind, it is naturally very tight in the wind and feels much colder due to the wind chill factor. Tendons are like rubber bands, ever stretched a cold rubber band? it doesn't. </div>
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<a href="http://kellygonzalez.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/vastus-medialis-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://kellygonzalez.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/vastus-medialis-1.jpg" width="320" /></a>Also, the<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vastus_medialis" target="_blank"> vastus medialis</a> is a large muscle just under the inner side of the quads. Because of it's angle of connection to the knee cap joint the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vastus_medialis" target="_blank">vastus medialis</a> is crucial in a healthy knee tracking. Because of its size it takes a long time even in optimum weather conditions to warm up, and even longer in the cold. Until it is warmed up, your knee will not be tracking in a healthy rotation. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold</span></div>
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Luckily for us cyclists, there are tons of different weights, wind protections, and body part specific coverings for cold weather riding. This allows everybody to find the exact combination that fits them in all chilly situations.<br />
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<b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=knee+warmer&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Arm, Leg & knee Warmers</a></b><br />
<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/Zoom/aoxsok9900_gore_12ss_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/Zoom/aoxsok9900_gore_12ss_z.jpg" width="200" /></a>A very easy way to make sure you are not hurting your body but still be comfortable is using<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=knee+warmer&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank"> leg, knee or arm warmers</a>. These items are often wind proof and only cover the rider's limbs. This allows you to change your clothing with the weather. All these items are small enough to take off and put in a back pocket. They also provide no warmth to the core, which is often the last part of the body to need help in cold situations.<br />
A great example of these type of products are the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/gore-bike-wear-oxygen-so-knee-warmers-167710-1.htm" target="_blank">Gore Oxygen SC knee warmers</a>. With <a href="http://www.gore.com/en_xx/products/consumer/windstopper/" target="_blank">Windstopper technology</a> they are able to allow the knees to warm up without unnecessary insulation.<br />
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<b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=jacket&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Wind Jackets & Vests</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcRcLRP7YgS5-XL7YzWBeVQzahTL5x9cgNP3Y5DMseZwlzKva6ZzgfsdG0mbQy3qgqePd6W9hjOY&usqp=CAY" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://encrypted-tbn2.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcRcLRP7YgS5-XL7YzWBeVQzahTL5x9cgNP3Y5DMseZwlzKva6ZzgfsdG0mbQy3qgqePd6W9hjOY&usqp=CAY" width="200" /></a></div>
A great way to check if you are appropriately protected is if you are cold standing still but warm while riding. Because a rider's body is heating up, there is not a lot of insulation needed, the main focus is stopping the wind from cooling down the body too much.<br />
<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/large/gore_headband_09fw_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/large/gore_headband_09fw_m.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=wind+jacket&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Wind jackets</a>, like the<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=cannondale+jacket&rb_ct=1194&rb_br=25" target="_blank"> Cannondale Morphis jacket</a> are perfect for this function. Not only do they provide complete wind protection to the upper body, but the magnetic sleeves detach to become a vest. This allows the body to cool down, because nobody likes being too hot.<br />
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<b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/gore-bike-wear-bike-headband-16248.htm" target="_blank">Ear Coverings</a></b><br />
<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/Zoom/giro_gilman_g_blk_pair_12_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/Zoom/giro_gilman_g_blk_pair_12_z.jpg" width="200" /></a>Everybody is different but for me, my ears are one of the first parts of my body to become uncomfortably cold. It starts a chain reaction, first my ears get cold, then my head starts to hurt, then I curse the excellent ventilation of my helmet, then the ride is no fun. If you've ever been there, you want to look into something to cover your ears. <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/gore-bike-wear-bike-headband-16248.htm" target="_blank">Gore's Bike Headband</a> is a great example of finding warmth without fighting a beanie into your helmet!<br />
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<b><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=long+finger&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Gloves</a></b><br />
These items are often overlooked in importance of fighting cold. It is an easy step, many companies provide the same level of padding as their warm weather options in a full finger style. <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=long+finger&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Gloves</a> should be one of the first steps in covering up. When it comes to shifting and braking, fingers that are slowed and stiff due to cold do not work. The <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/giro-gilman-gloves-154904-1.htm" target="_blank">Giro Gilman gloves</a> are a great option for cold in the great state of Florida. A insulated covering is not always necessary. Often times it only takes a barrier.<br />
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<b>Booties</b><br />
<a href="http://images.shimanoweb.com/image/process/media/images/pearlizumi/products/essentials/covers/14381006_021_v1_m56577569830724396.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://images.shimanoweb.com/image/process/media/images/pearlizumi/products/essentials/covers/14381006_021_v1_m56577569830724396.png" width="200" /></a>While your upper body is being hit by wind, your feet are actually being hit by three fronts: wind, and rotational wind from pedaling as well as any water from wet roads or puddles. To make sure you do not throw your very expensive, very ventilated road shoes in anger towards your purple toes, try out some bootie coverings. This allows the fit of your shoes to stay the same but adds wind/water resistance on the outside of the shoe. Pearl Izumi Elite Toe Covers (we call them 'booties' because it's way more fun) are a great example of how to keep your toes as happy as you are on the bike!<br />
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Everybody is different when it comes to cold weather riding. Starting the learning process in Florida is a great location due to its timid temperatures when it comes to our "winter." No matter what, don't let the cold dictate your off season. Winter months can be the most enjoyable season for cycling and add yet another facet of how you love riding. Get educated, get equipped and get riding!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-65372772118414690822013-09-05T13:07:00.000-04:002013-09-05T13:42:57.763-04:00Aero Minded: Helmets that do More than Save your Head <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://dfp2hfrf3mn0u.cloudfront.net/247/24720_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://dfp2hfrf3mn0u.cloudfront.net/247/24720_1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286&search=helmet&rb_ct=1208" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">H</span>elmets</a> are a standard on any ride. Many cyclists refuse to ride with anyone not sporting the 'mushroom head' look. For years helmets have been a necessary inconvenience to better your odds of walking away from a crash.<br />
However, This year, at the Tour de France, helmets were on everybody's mind (literally). Every brand seems to come to the realization that in a sport that revolves around effective power and aero positioning, the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286&search=helmet&rb_ct=1208" target="_blank">helmet</a> has been overlooked.<br />
Brands like, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=giro&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Giro</a>, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286&search=specialized&rb_ct=1208" target="_blank">Specialized</a> and even smaller helmet manufacturers like <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=kask&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Kask</a> are producing drag-conscious helmets no longer reserved for the TT stages.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/giro-air-attack-shield-179256-1.htm" target="_blank">Air Attack Shield</a> </span>by<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=giro&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Giro</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/zoom/giro_airattackshield_white_silver_13_z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/zoom/giro_airattackshield_white_silver_13_z.jpg" width="186" /></a></span></div>
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<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=giro&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Giro</a> really went back to the basics when designing the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/giro-air-attack-shield-179256-1.htm" target="_blank">Air Attack</a>. Creating prototype after prototype, and only changing to improve function, they came up with the shape we see now on such teams as Rapha-Focus, Garmin-Sharp and the 2013 British Olympic Track Team. With the built-in "shield" that continues the aero profile over the riders eyes, the air attack has become a complete package. Here's a great video on the time and effort put into creating it:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/TeZz9k3p6hc" width="560"></iframe>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bambino</span> by<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=kask&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Kask</a></span><br />
<a href="http://images.esellerpro.com/2375/I/732/794/Bambino-Black.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://images.esellerpro.com/2375/I/732/794/Bambino-Black.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=kask&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Kask</a> hit the market with a bang during the 2012 Tour de France. Team Sky's TT machine sporting funky looking, bob-tailed, aero helmets. Sky being known for using only equipment scientifically proven to improve the rider's performance, the helmets were not taken lightly. <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=kask&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Kask</a> states that the Bambino is more aero than a true, full-tailed aero position helmet because it is still aero if the rider breaks position. While it may look like a sun-powered oven for your head, the two-layer construction keeps air flowing through the infrastructure of the helmet, cooling the head it protects.<br />
Here's why Sky decided to go with <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?search=kask&goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286" target="_blank">Kask</a>:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jYgWQXxiuYE" width="560"></iframe>
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<b>Coming soon...</b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Evade </span>by<span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286&search=specialized&rb_ct=1208" target="_blank">Specialized</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://specialized.scene7.com/is/image/Specialized/62690?$Hero$" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://specialized.scene7.com/is/image/Specialized/62690?$Hero$" width="200" /></a>While some may think <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-477&goSiteSearch.y=-286&search=specialized&rb_ct=1208" target="_blank">Specialized</a> is late to the party, they have actually been looking at air flow of their helmets for some time now. The <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/specialized-s-works-prevail-large-blue-only-77188-1.htm" target="_blank">S-Works Prevail</a> boasted a drastic improvement on rider's over all speed while still maintaining a level up in ventilation.<br />
The Evade is simply the next impressive step in the S-Works evolution. I could ramble off some numbers and stats, but we would all rather watch the very handsome, Mr. Chris Riekert talk about their newest head piece. Also, here's a <a href="http://www.nsmb.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/WIMB_Chris.jpg" target="_blank">picture of Chris</a> when he thought he should have a moustache!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Do1kQW9Bj9o" width="560"></iframe><br />
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I'm sure there will always be a place for the helmets that sacrifice wind-flow for comfort and ventilation. However, with the type of effective improvements all companies producing aero helmets are boasting, it is not hard to see that this could be a strategy that sticks around for some time.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-89471227099455472922013-08-14T10:00:00.000-04:002013-08-14T13:25:49.169-04:00Popular Trails in Orlando<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/prc/files/2012/09/bike_route_sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/prc/files/2012/09/bike_route_sign.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">S</span>o you bought a<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-246&goSiteSearch.y=-268&search=bicycle&rb_ct=1001" target="_blank"> bike</a>, the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-246&goSiteSearch.y=-268&search=helmet&rb_ct=1208" target="_blank">helmet</a>, the <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/sitesearch.cfm?goSiteSearch.x=-246&goSiteSearch.y=-268&search=shorts&rb_ct=1203" target="_blank">shorts</a>, pedals, shoes, the whole setup, now for the hard part. "Where do I go to use all this stuff!" Or maybe you've got a nice trail close to you that you frequent. But, after memorizing the number of leaves on each tree, you've decided to shake things up with a new riding spot.<br />
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A great place to start is <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.blogspot.com/2013/05/google-maps-your-bikes-best-friend.html" target="_blank">Google maps</a>. Now, with their inclusion of bike trails on their directions, you can find out which roads have bike lanes, where <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/articles/bike-trails-maps-central-florida-ig30/" target="_blank">paved trail</a>s are close to you, and even make a little ride map for your adventure into the unknown. To find out how to do that, check out our post, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.blogspot.com/2013/05/google-maps-your-bikes-best-friend.html" target="_blank">Google Maps: Your Bike's Best Friend.</a><br />
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Maybe you're like me, and act like a monkey towards a coconut when your technology limit is stretched, here are a couple of great trails to start with.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://commuteorlando.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Statue-of-kids-riding-on-West-Orange-Trail-640--300x225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://commuteorlando.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Statue-of-kids-riding-on-West-Orange-Trail-640--300x225.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Appropriate statue at Chapin Station,<br />
a great rest stop on the W.O.T</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">West Orange Trail</span><br />
If you've spent any length of time in a bike shop in or around Orlando, I'm sure you've heard of the West Orange Trail. Being the longest paved trail around, and with options to go punish yourself through <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?q=clermont+fl&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=0x88e78ac71fe24735:0x372601b856243ecc,Clermont,+FL&gl=us&ei=HrwLUpiNGYeu9ATYmoH4Dg&ved=0CKwBELYD" target="_blank">Clermont</a> it's very popular. The inclines on W.O.T. are mild to moderate and well kept. The only downside is, being so popular, the weekends can be a little congested.<br />
<a href="http://apps.ocfl.net/images/maps/WOT_TrailMap.pdf" target="_blank">Here is a downloadable map and description of the West Orange Trail</a><br />
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<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/zoom/garmin-edge-810-182648-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/zoom/garmin-edge-810-182648-1.jpg" width="112" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">I</span>f you're having trouble finding your way around, or worse, back to the car! You may want to look at a <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/garmin-edge-810-182648-1.htm" target="_blank">Garmin Edge 810</a>. Not only will it record your heart rate, speed, cadence and where you've been but it also displays maps in real time so you can find your way home. If things get really hairy a rider can sync the computer with your phone, allowing for up-to-date weather info for the rider and real-time tracking for loved ones to keep an ear on you.<br />
<a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/product/garmin-edge-810-182648-1.htm" target="_blank">Click Here for more info on the Garmin Edge 810</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Cady Way Trail</span><br />
While Cady Way is only 6.5mi long, it's the surge protector of trails, plugging into the Cross Seminole, Baldwin Park Trail, and Florida Trail. Some complain that there are too many stop signs and lights, it seems to be a fair trade off for it's inner-city location. From College Park to Baldwin, Cady Way is going to be the longest trail with easy access.<br />
<a href="http://apps.ocfl.net/images/Maps/CadyWayMap_web.pdf" target="_blank">Here is a downloadable map and description of the Cady Way Trail</a><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s3-media3.ak.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/xwJDaGfih_dQQ1AQ3W1ySg/l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://s3-media3.ak.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/xwJDaGfih_dQQ1AQ3W1ySg/l.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaded Seminole Wekiva Trail</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Seminole Wekiva Trail</span><br />
The Seminole Wekiva is the most shade you will find on any paved trail in the area. Out in Altamonte Springs, it is a beautiful ride, perfect for the summer months when the sun seems closer.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/large/gr_pwr2_11_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://orangecycleorlando.com/images/library/large/gr_pwr2_11_.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No pain, with all the gain!<br />
With the Gore Power 2's</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">M</span>ake sure to be prepared on all fronts, or backs. Wearing the right shorts can be the difference between a good experience and a sore one. The Gore Power 2 shorts not only have a great chamois, designed to sit on for hours, but also a unique front panel material. Just in case you don't have the chiseled abs of a pro.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I</span>f you would like some more info on a few more trails in and around Orlando, check out our <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/articles/bike-trails-maps-central-florida-ig30/" target="_blank">Bike Trails and Maps</a> section on our website.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A</span>lso, If you want to venture out of the area, <a href="http://www.visitflorida.com/content/dam/visitflorida/en-us/documents/guides/biketrails_b_v6.pdf" target="_blank">click here to check out a few other trails!</a><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-18694282902680378522013-08-07T12:35:00.000-04:002013-08-07T16:46:58.896-04:00Yoga: The Manliest Thing you can do to Help your Ride<div style="text-align: left;">
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<a href="http://thestudiomadison.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Bike-Yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://thestudiomadison.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/Bike-Yoga.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">A</span>s cyclists, we think about the next challenge and how hard we can push our bodies to get there. The pain or stress we put our bodies through becomes simply one more challenge to overcome – and we've mastered that - push through the pain to get what you want. We aren't exactly known for “listening to our bodies” or looking for the root of the problem and we are definitely not going to stop riding – hard. </div>
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<b>But what if you could have both?</b> A great addition to your workout, that improves your body for riding but also helps prevent injuries and speeds up your recovery time. </div>
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<b>Your new challenge? Yoga. </b></div>
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Unfortunately, cycling creates shortening in the lower muscles and in the chest which makes them fatigue quicker and more prone to injury. Yoga helps lengthen your muscles so there becomes less strain on your joints – like the knees, hips and shoulders – common injury spots for cyclists. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Hard Truth</span></div>
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The truth is, <b>Yoga is one of the most effective, strengthening and balancing practices for cyclists. </b> It’s not just sitting in a room while stretching and chanting and by no means are we asking you to hop off your bike and head to an <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ashram" target="_blank">ashram</a>. The physical and mental aspect of yoga is synonymous with strong; it’s incredibly challenging and can improve your overall performance. Free your mind from any preconceived ideas and try out these core exercises, strengthening poses and stretches and experience it all yourself. </div>
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Being a Cyclist myself, I am guilty of riding through all and any pains my muscles may be telling me about. I am about as flexible as a brick wall and have never set foot in a yoga studio. That being said, I am clearly not the voice of knowledge when it comes to yoga. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Don't Listen to Me</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">L</span>uckily, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nourishyogabykortni" target="_blank">Kortni Hampton</a> is. Having hundreds of hours logged, training in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forrest_Yoga" target="_blank">Forrest Yoga</a> style, she also currently practices at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RootYogaAtThePilatesBungalow?ref=stream" target="_blank">Root Yoga</a>.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/nourishyogabykortni" target="_blank"> Kortni</a> is a wealth of knowledge, not only for yoga-specific information but also how the poses can help one's muscular anatomy. This is key when relating to another activity, such as cycling. Having worked with cyclists before also gives her a certain edge on this subject. So from here on, I'm going to hand it over to her and let her educate all of us!</div>
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<b>“Yoga is by far the best cross-training for cyclists</b> as the form used on your mat can directly translate to the form used on your bike. Here are some great poses for riders. <b> Doing these exercises will make you a stronger and faster rider. Period.</b> (And if you secretly care about injury prevention, they help that as well.)” - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/nourishyogabykortni" target="_blank">Kortni Hampton, Certified Yoga Instructor</a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Core Strengthening</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">All video and photography below by <b><a href="http://blakehampton.net/" target="_blank">Blake H. Hampton</a></b></span><br />
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<b>Core Exercise #1</b></div>
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Repeat exercise 5-8 times. **If you begin to feel this in your low back you can place feet on the floor, lifting one leg at a time OR reduce number of reps.</div>
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<b>Why you should do this:</b> This particular core exercise will help unlock the hips and hip flexors. It also stretches the upper back and increases flexibility in the cervical spine – though the fire in your belly will likely take over these subtleties in the beginning. </div>
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<b>Core Exercise #2</b></div>
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Repeat exercise on video 5-8 times. **If you begin to have any pain in your low back, place both feet on the floor but continue with all other cues until you build the strength to lift the legs.</div>
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Take a towel and lay it out. Tri-fold your towel and then roll up as tightly as you can. Lie on your back. Place the roll between the inner thighs near the pubic bone and squeeze both legs into the roll. Here is a video to demonstrate:<br />
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> Having a strong core is essential to being a great cyclist and key to injury prevention. These slow controlled movements hit every part of your core and heat up the entire body preparing you for your ride. They also call for longer and stronger breaths, which will help with the control of your breathing pattern on your bike. You should do belly-up core before and after every long ride. Before so that you get your body warmed up and become mindful of your core, and after to help settle the back and release the sacrum.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Poses to help</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bridge Pose</span> (not photographed)<br />
A great counter pose to do between or after the two abdominal series. While on your back and with towel roll between inner thighs, place feet on the floor directly underneath your knees. Keep the neck neutral and the arms relaxed to your sides. Press into the feet to lift the hips. Lightly lift the toes and spread them away from one another. Engage (but don’t clinch) the glutes and imagine you are dragging your sitting bones (the pointy bones you feel with sitting on the floor) towards your knees. You will feel your tailbone start to pull towards your towel roll and more length and space in your low back. Hold for 8-10 long, slow breaths in and out through the nose. Focus on the breath moving past the chest and into the belly. </div>
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> Not only will you immediately feel the intensity and heat in the core from the previous abdominal series, therefore wanting to stretch it out….this is also a good pose for cyclists because it is the opposite of how you ride. Muscles and tendons can shorten quickly, and with the constant forward formation from riding it’s good to counter that as much as possible to keep this from happening. Let’s be real, slumped shoulders aren’t attractive. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Dolphin</span> </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dolphin Pose (side view)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dolphin (front view)</td></tr>
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Begin in a tabletop position with hands stacked under shoulders and knees under hips. Bring your forearms to the floor and interlace your hands. Bring your elbows towards one another slightly narrower than the width of your shoulders. Relax your neck completely. Inhale into your upper back, feel the shoulder blades spread apart from one another. As you exhale, flip over your toes and walk the toes just a few small steps up towards your elbows. IF this forces the shoulders to press forward over the hands, bend your knees as much as you need to so you can continue to work on your back making a straight line from elbows to sitting bones. This alignment is far more important than straightening the legs or having the heels touch the floor. Though likely close to the ground – the head is off the floor in this pose. If you find this is hard to do, lower knees and bring elbows a little closer. Hold for 8-10 long breaths.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzw3vjXsHDf5aHeGu_BY_Xs8JVijT3AHem2O83g_bPUs6tgiA6zIH85QPxigcgoiI4YdemB1-VZ247SgWKcrLmFMRvec7skjL89eN0x-WajVKWQlMsuTs2iD2mrUIuhFxb9V3Ztnkd0Ws/s1600/20130802_013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzw3vjXsHDf5aHeGu_BY_Xs8JVijT3AHem2O83g_bPUs6tgiA6zIH85QPxigcgoiI4YdemB1-VZ247SgWKcrLmFMRvec7skjL89eN0x-WajVKWQlMsuTs2iD2mrUIuhFxb9V3Ztnkd0Ws/s320/20130802_013.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dolphin with legs bent</td></tr>
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If your muscles are too tight to perform this pose, bend your knees. Eventually, with continuing practice, you will get to a straight-leg position.<br />
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> While in Dolphin you are hugging the energy of the elbows towards one another – activating your chest and back - and pulling in your core…just like your riding stance. Difference: in Dolphin you can relax the neck and also get the added benefits of actively stretching out the arches of your feet, your ankles, calves, hamstrings and low back – all while building a stronger foundation with the upper body. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Downward Facing Dog</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downward Facing Dog (side view)</td></tr>
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From tabletop, take hands a little wider than shoulder distance and lightly bend the elbows (so they aren’t locked out) towards you (not out to the sides). Inhale into upper back, exhale tuck over the toes and send your hips towards the sky. Keep the energy of the elbows squeezing towards one another – once again activating chest and back and continue to release neck (you can gently nod the head yes and no here). Hold for 8-10 long breaths in and out through the nose.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another very "flexible" pose for beginners</td></tr>
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<b>Why should I do this: </b> You get many of the same benefits you get from dolphin, but you also get to wake up the hands. Cyclists are often in the opposite position wrapping the hands, so down dog wakes up your palms and fingertips and really stretches the hand bones – so really focus on spreading the hand from pinky to thumb. Just as in Dolphin, you continue to stretch the glutes, hamstrings, calves, ankles and arches.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Wide Angle Stretch with Shoulder Opener</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyramid (front view)</td></tr>
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Spread the feet 3-4’ part from one another and angle the toes in (slightly pigeon toed). Interlace the hands behind the back or, if that is too intense, grab for opposite elbow creases or forearms. Inhale stretch tall, exhale softly bend your knees as you fold forward. Relax your neck and keep a slight bend in the knees (larger bend in the knees if the hamstrings are tight). If your hands are interlaced and you need to deepen the stretch, you can start to squeeze the shoulder blades towards one another and reach the arms towards the floor. </div>
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> You are getting a decompression of the low back, while lengthening and stretching your calves and hamstrings. These stretches offer an opposing and strengthening aspect in the upper body…while continuing to make space in the neck, jaw, shoulders and back. Hold 8-10 breaths.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pyramid Pose </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyramid pose (right foot forward)</td></tr>
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Standing with both feet together, step right foot about 3’ forward. All ten toes point forward and the heels are about sitting bones distance apart. Bring hands to hips and fold over front thigh. When available, release hands/fingertips to the floor. If this is not possible, bring hands to shin or top of thigh with knee bent. With each inhale draw the right hip back and lengthen your spine. With each exhale press your left hip down, and fold a little closer to your front thigh. Use your exhales to release your hamstring….before you know it you will be able to straighten the front leg! Relax your neck and spread your toes (unclench <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyramid pose (left foot forward)</td></tr>
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them from the floor) Hold 8-10 breaths in and out through the nose. Bring hands to hips when done and come up with a flat back. Do other side.</div>
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> Clearly you are getting a major hamstring and low-back stretch. You are also stretching the upper back and shoulder blades, waking up the feet and toes (which spend so much time closed up in shoes), and working on balance. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Warrior 1 with Eagle Arms</span> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warrior 1 with Eagle Arms</td></tr>
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From down dog, step your right foot between your hands. Pull your right hip crease back and step your back foot up about a foot. Spiral your back heal down so that your left toes are facing the upper left corner of your mat. Engage your core and as you inhale reach your arms towards the sky. Exhale to sit deeper into your front thigh and continue to work towards squaring the hips to the top of the mat. Take another inhale to reach the spine taller and as you exhale wrap your right arm underneath your left arm, crossing at elbows and wrists. If this is not working, you can cross elbows and then grab for opposite shoulders. Feel for an opposing energy of the forearms reaching forward and the shoulder blades pulling back and down. If balance allows, you can get an even deeper stretch into your neck and shoulder blades by lifting the elbows higher and releasing your forehead towards your biceps. Each time you exhale relax the face and jaw as you release into the stretch. Hold for 5-8 breaths. Release bind of arms, come to ball of back foot and bring hands to floor. Step back to down dog and repeat on other side.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC1rAV3NEqyKfQ3Mws1JUgEwLvhCtNUPerAJG8BFUjeLtj6dtywAjnDk3zSiPhyphenhyphenj8PTWRPeHXPj-lYr-iLFb2eV44fp0EnXVpNG51-1vfVFYRba4u1EH7Yyur_V1z0IIYcNZM35lFSojH/s1600/20130802_047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGC1rAV3NEqyKfQ3Mws1JUgEwLvhCtNUPerAJG8BFUjeLtj6dtywAjnDk3zSiPhyphenhyphenj8PTWRPeHXPj-lYr-iLFb2eV44fp0EnXVpNG51-1vfVFYRba4u1EH7Yyur_V1z0IIYcNZM35lFSojH/s320/20130802_047.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warrior 1 with Eagle Arms (front view)</td></tr>
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> You already have EPIC quads, so we don’t need to do a huge amount of leg strengthening. Warrior 1 is fairly mild on the strengthening aspect of your front thigh, but gives you a nice stretch into the quad and hip flexor of the back leg. You are also working on balance – lifting the toes will challenge the balance even more. For the upper body you are increasing range of motion and flexibility in the shoulders and upper back with a relaxed face and jaw. Increasing flexibility of your chest and neck. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pigeon with Sternum Towards Foot </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlx1ShbPekAM1UWPf-xA05f7pP8AQtYwf_QJDJoDMUQjMZV805PeGYvzLsPL1FIRkLmG9sZbB3Tqi39sGLM7pBbSCo7l6DtcIq0xWNezXI0iJyyaxoxc5n7Mm163Dfw5oaYMrF2zqLflG/s1600/20130802_056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXlx1ShbPekAM1UWPf-xA05f7pP8AQtYwf_QJDJoDMUQjMZV805PeGYvzLsPL1FIRkLmG9sZbB3Tqi39sGLM7pBbSCo7l6DtcIq0xWNezXI0iJyyaxoxc5n7Mm163Dfw5oaYMrF2zqLflG/s320/20130802_056.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pigeon with Sternum Towards Foot</td></tr>
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From down dog, bring your right foot towards your left wrist and your right knee towards you right wrist as you gently sit onto your right hip. (Your left knee and hip will likely lift and that is perfectly fine) Square your right shin as much as you can to the top of the mat. Start to roll your weight (Carefully!) to the inside of your right sitting bone and angle your sternum (chest) towards your foot. With your foot bisecting your hands, you can stay here if you are feeling a stretch or with each exhale begin to bring the forearms towards the ground. This may look easy, but it is definitely a pose the mind starts to chatter in – easily talking us into exiting as soon as </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvWJ3SlaWk7ncHDf49dyh9OPfDlYGRULOyYA6UaDEJ4JxXovbJbN2qtAlQbWSq7ZB4uyLqBrgy0Q4uJa_2HGq0EEX4m0rDMq1_iHsVzTGV7RxjSgLlsORv7V3udMcRWRdelRBJpfqgpqh/s1600/20130802_054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkvWJ3SlaWk7ncHDf49dyh9OPfDlYGRULOyYA6UaDEJ4JxXovbJbN2qtAlQbWSq7ZB4uyLqBrgy0Q4uJa_2HGq0EEX4m0rDMq1_iHsVzTGV7RxjSgLlsORv7V3udMcRWRdelRBJpfqgpqh/s320/20130802_054.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eventually, you could get here!</td></tr>
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possible or cheating on our breath counts…don’t let it! Stay for 8-10 breaths and then do the other side.</div>
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<b>Why should I do this:</b> There are a few variations of pigeon, but this Forrest Yoga variation is a great alternative for cyclists and runners – really any athlete because it does not put pressure on or overstretch the knee. You will also get the added bonus of a hamstring stretch in your front leg and a quad and hip flexor stretch in the back leg. Able to do this with ease and ready to add-on? Try sitting tall and bending your back knee in towards your glute for a deep quad stretch. **Only try this variation if the hips are nearly square to the front of the mat.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Neck Release</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkL5vDzog5O6DqWA60g7HJQGPljXOgiJfmhhdHY65BjXttYcJZCOiruudDAqLSK5GSsCr0iJ4KhY1zMMEiqC9v6Kx85mmEjcQ5hdED-S6qROdMHUg-_l1XRay8FF0V65uNLb2bSAkLnAJH/s1600/20130802_059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkL5vDzog5O6DqWA60g7HJQGPljXOgiJfmhhdHY65BjXttYcJZCOiruudDAqLSK5GSsCr0iJ4KhY1zMMEiqC9v6Kx85mmEjcQ5hdED-S6qROdMHUg-_l1XRay8FF0V65uNLb2bSAkLnAJH/s320/20130802_059.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neck Release</td></tr>
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Sitting in a comfortable position, inhale to lengthen the spine and as you exhale release your right ear to your right shoulder. Your first inclination might be to bring your shoulder up to your ear – creating a little pillow for it. Instead, continue to pull the shoulder away from the ear. Keep every bit of you torso lifting up and the only thing tilting is your right ear towards your right shoulder. Take a few breaths into left side of your neck and then pull chin to chest. Kept lifting torso and relaxing neck and jaw and continue to breathe into the shoulder blades and back of the neck. Pull the shoulders back and lift chest. And then tilt your left ear towards your left shoulder. Relax your left shoulder away from your ear for a deeper stretch into the right side of the neck. To take this stretch to the next level, do as shown in the picture, and take the arm up and over towards your jaw line. Instead of pulling on the neck, gently use the weight of the arm to release into the neck deeper on each side. Example: Right ear to right shoulder would have right arm extending up and over towards left jaw line to assist in your stretch of the left side of the neck.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Keep At It</b></span><br />
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I know some of this may seem a bit alien. But, if you work at it, like beginning riding a bike, it will get more familiar and you will become more confident in the poses. You will also begin to see not only a huge change in your abilities as a yogi (somebody who does yoga) but also in your cycling performance. Not to mention securing that your body will no longer hold you back from any two-wheeled aspirations you may have in the future!<br />
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Practice makes perfect and nowhere is that more true than improving your cycling experience.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-27833989115778811292013-07-31T07:00:00.000-04:002013-07-31T08:47:11.074-04:00Reasons to Ride: Cycle For Life, Orlando<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgijFTMryx5X4K8Y_rcjcHmWFReiWr8LICFCYODq7GFXmss8DbFKrhWZBynHJ9ZLpGu6g4QGRtl4La4IBpneCl0azcXCdMwUgq62fiCHmiWxhtB1h6ug60pdROBdjU66194ccZR0rIARFNk/s1600/1250_10151719151047112_1147434585_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgijFTMryx5X4K8Y_rcjcHmWFReiWr8LICFCYODq7GFXmss8DbFKrhWZBynHJ9ZLpGu6g4QGRtl4La4IBpneCl0azcXCdMwUgq62fiCHmiWxhtB1h6ug60pdROBdjU66194ccZR0rIARFNk/s400/1250_10151719151047112_1147434585_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">O</span>n <b>October 6th</b>, come out with us and stretch your legs for a cause! The <a href="http://www.cff.org/Chapters/orlando/index.cfm?id=23855&event=23855" target="_blank">CF Cycle For Life</a> charity ride is a great way to have a blast and support a great cause. Plus you get to ride with our smiling mugs!<br />
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<a href="http://www.cff.org/Chapters/orlando/index.cfm?id=23855&event=23855" target="_blank">Cycle For Life</a> supports the <a href="http://www.cff.org/Chapters/orlando/" target="_blank">Cystic Fibrosis Foundation</a>. With several distances, 30mi, 64mi or 100mi (a century) to choose from, anyone can participate. There are plenty of sag stops and mechanics on hand to<br />
ensure that you have a great time while supporting a great cause.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Rider Party</span><br />
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Interested but would like to know more? come to the <a href="http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=sg6urvcab&v=001xdqoBdbuEqCiv1ENCVgE1JG2nQiROfvM6HmxtFWwNcGI_8NJCbgYRb9e-lW2oJp7dTlTN-baMTibCCVXRT8AGVlG883ubIj28D6o9DM2chQ%3D" target="_blank">Cycle for Life Rider Party</a> on August 7th, 2013. Come talk to people participating in and those running the event and a few people who can share some pretty personal stories about cystic fibrosis.<br />
Held at <a href="http://www.taproomatdubsdread.com/directions.html" target="_blank">The Tap Room at Dubsdread</a>, There will also be prizes, raffles, a free jersey and a route preview. So, if you are worried about the terrain or grade, it's a great way to see what you could be up against.<br />
Let them know you're coming:<br />
The Rider Party Facebook Event Page is<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/579781172074160/" target="_blank"> here.</a><br />
Don't have facebook? No big deal, email <a href="mailto:pgloersen@cff.org">pgloersen@cff.org</a><br />
Still want more information, <a href="http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=sg6urvcab&v=001xdqoBdbuEqCiv1ENCVgE1JG2nQiROfvM6HmxtFWwNcGI_8NJCbgYRb9e-lW2oJp7dTlTN-baMTibCCVXRT8AGVlG883ubIj28D6o9DM2chQ%3D" target="_blank">click here!</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is Cystic Fibrosis?</span><br />
Cystic fibrosis is a disease that is often found in carriers when they are very young (often 2-5 years old). It is a condition where one's mucus throughout their body is very thick and sticky. This causes serious problems in obvious areas such as breathing and digestion but also has a larger effect on the body. People fighting cystic fibrosis are prone to lung disease, struggle with nutrition, growth and basic development.<br />
This genetic disorder is one of the most common in white children through out this country and has been increasing over the past 40 years.<br />
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If you're like me, you respond much more to a face than stats and numbers. So check out this video:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Vc3lqalJfF0" width="420"></iframe>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Help Us, Help You!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnNFWasct0_8_b9wUFC5bYtoZAQin8WsTiEmoSmM7PkXk7uxLmYg9ZP4esefLODyjzT46mzQu-B1RTqiFdMQ_WOJH8T0BOuCGPYh8n_Ol8mjxsWBlwy5qU09J9AEPiiWZaKKB9tjZbRUw/s1600/DSC_02791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAnNFWasct0_8_b9wUFC5bYtoZAQin8WsTiEmoSmM7PkXk7uxLmYg9ZP4esefLODyjzT46mzQu-B1RTqiFdMQ_WOJH8T0BOuCGPYh8n_Ol8mjxsWBlwy5qU09J9AEPiiWZaKKB9tjZbRUw/s320/DSC_02791.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pick from any of our designs!</td></tr>
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The Orange Cycle family will be riding the 60mi. ride with our smiles and Orange Cycle jerseys. If you would like to join our team, the more the merrier! When you sign up for the ride, select our team!<br />
Raise $150, come in to the shop with proof of the fundraising and we'll give you a free Orange Cycle jersey along with 25% off the matching shorts.<br />
For more info, <a href="http://orangecycleorlando.com/about/rides-and-events-pg742.htm" target="_blank">click here</a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5834627633307780024.post-7722038751196442412013-07-29T12:04:00.001-04:002013-07-29T12:04:22.776-04:00Hincapie: The Only Time You'll Hear 'Comfort' and 'Race Cut' in the same sentence. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8W-P1XFe-QVLxQGggvKgTtDyg3RxK7YaUPJURxP3oUKm_MdZ51NJfBGMZnGjRYX4xQe18n2jLksSWp7O8v3tBqX5uVMsBb_SufjCOqH853lEHhuUojYMYMdHHVQAh2uYzGO37R1BIi2tk/s1600/ocwDSC_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8W-P1XFe-QVLxQGggvKgTtDyg3RxK7YaUPJURxP3oUKm_MdZ51NJfBGMZnGjRYX4xQe18n2jLksSWp7O8v3tBqX5uVMsBb_SufjCOqH853lEHhuUojYMYMdHHVQAh2uYzGO37R1BIi2tk/s320/ocwDSC_0010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hincapie isn't afraid to stray from the black/red/white mantra<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">H</span>incapie is a name known in cycling. First, as one of the best domestiques (support rider) in the business. Armstrong's right hand man through all of his Tour de France victories as well as riding for Alberto Contador in 2007 and Cadel Evans in 2011.<br />
He and his brother started a now, well-known cycling apparel company called, Hincapie and this three time national champion transferred his knack for rider support directly into the clothing line. We were especially impressed with this year's line and thought it was about time we tried it out! Neal and myself put the Nitro kit while Mel tried the Chromatic.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Fabrics<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIdRfSjrc1_hqAz0eF2uF8NLIE7Xw6XmVBG_UmEduzCo4NDEd2D-F5XI5kpKsCVBmqhhgsZWUOzFdpwKsyRh4MZDycjRDZSew5mO2NIV5Jek5_aWQsR1c0s3pOwYVsAjDzCZrbZAYbyGw/s1600/ocwDSC_0771.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnIdRfSjrc1_hqAz0eF2uF8NLIE7Xw6XmVBG_UmEduzCo4NDEd2D-F5XI5kpKsCVBmqhhgsZWUOzFdpwKsyRh4MZDycjRDZSew5mO2NIV5Jek5_aWQsR1c0s3pOwYVsAjDzCZrbZAYbyGw/s320/ocwDSC_0771.jpg" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
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Hincapie has always been known for fabrics that are a level above many other equally priced kits. The Nitro is no exception. If you are a person that is very picky about how your lycra feels, you have to give this a try. I firmly believe that Hincapie is blending Egyptian cotton and lamb's skin, however, they call it TourTek fabric. Designed to take moisture off the rider's body, it is also very light weight.<br />
On the back, chest and sides of the Nitro is Accelerator Mesh. Hanging flat and light, it provides the best air flow and breath-ability without limiting coverage and feel.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSBL8-ssCWxF3l69cMaI_MfCSBMchFI3u_9FMjWWPyjdHg9K3mV231mbwNeN7KqOmo5KYA-OqKhnbiqKNXh090O5GKEaSrPBsjZitfCrqK0yiFIjhMpZnm5KiD70SItUiHba55o9ZQssv/s1600/ocwDSC_0768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLSBL8-ssCWxF3l69cMaI_MfCSBMchFI3u_9FMjWWPyjdHg9K3mV231mbwNeN7KqOmo5KYA-OqKhnbiqKNXh090O5GKEaSrPBsjZitfCrqK0yiFIjhMpZnm5KiD70SItUiHba55o9ZQssv/s200/ocwDSC_0768.jpg" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When hit with light, the<br />Chromatic sleeves turn<br />a bright white</td></tr>
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Both sleeve and bib cuffs are designed with a sleek, DimpleTek band. Similar to high-end Louis Garneau and Sugoi products, it relies on a longer, inter-weaved polyester and spandex mesh. This maintains comfort and position without the annoying rubber cuff.<br />
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A really clever feature for several of this year's kits is the addition of HyperOptic fabrics in the sleeve and short cuffs. undetectable in normal lighting, when hit by light, the highly reflective sub-fabrics shine through to create extremely bright material.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The Chamois</span><br />
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The fabrics could be weaved with gold and diamonds and it still wouldn't matter if the chamois was no good. Neal and myself tried out Hincapie's Pro chamois while Mel rode the women's Power chamois. Both are designed with dual density foam so they are supportive without losing breathability.<br />
Coming from thicker pads, like the Sugoi RS or the Gore Xenon, all three of us were a bit skeptical at the lack of thickness in the Hincapie line. However, we were surprised to find the same support as a pillow-top style chamois. The advantage to a sleeker pad is that when the rider stands or shifts their weight, the pad disappears. I do not mean the support is lost, you forget that you have padding between your legs.<br />
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<a href="https://www.hincapie.com/_images/chamois/sp13_womens_power.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://www.hincapie.com/_images/chamois/sp13_womens_power.png" width="189" /></a><a href="https://www.hincapie.com/_images/chamois/sp13_mens_pro.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://www.hincapie.com/_images/chamois/sp13_mens_pro.png" width="189" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Bottom Line</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9NtvM1uvPvzSaKwjLMVsL1TpRUkTgKrvtKeBle_PVlpWHkuKobLXeV8wn6DS4yttmMavJrBsqR5_tYFb-UWfh3ps5PZ_XMjn3t0YLpYiNYFilTnFwW8GsuT7yRkXg9YRGZlgYaSboMEP/s1600/ocwDSC_0014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9NtvM1uvPvzSaKwjLMVsL1TpRUkTgKrvtKeBle_PVlpWHkuKobLXeV8wn6DS4yttmMavJrBsqR5_tYFb-UWfh3ps5PZ_XMjn3t0YLpYiNYFilTnFwW8GsuT7yRkXg9YRGZlgYaSboMEP/s200/ocwDSC_0014.jpg" width="133" /></a>A confident and low-profile chamois, in combination with some of the most breathable and comfort-based fabrics on the market make Hincapie clothing a great product. When you add the clever features, like blended reflective material and a perfect fit for any body, it's hard to see why anyone would pass it up.<br />
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It's clear that George Hincapie now puts as much effort into creating a thoughtful product, able to create a comfortable experience, as he did while making a name for himself in the peloton.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3