Aerodynamic has great significance in cycling, with bike companies and professional riders spending a lot of time in the wind tunnel.
Based on a question asked by a fan, Specialized identified if having a beard actually slows down riders. Following testing, it was found that not having a beard saved less than one second over 40 kilometers – so keep the facial hair if you want, because it’s not slowing you down!
I’ve written a couple of stories about the Shimano CM-1000 sports camera for TweakTown (here and here), but thought I should post something on Alameda Runners. Shimano used the 2014 Tour of California as a testing ground for the camera, and some unique videos have been released.
The Shimano CM-1000 will be available to consumers in early August with an expected $300 MSRP.
This review is a guest review written by Miriam “Wombat” Kaufman, a personal friend, running enthusiast, and all-around neat person. She has several stories currently in the works for Alameda Runners, so hope you enjoy.
1. I’ve had my current belt for almost five years and it’s just about lost all of its elasticity
2. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect no-bounce belt.
I really dislike carrying stuff while I run, and I think I’m extra sensitive to every little bounce, slosh or jingle that drives me crazy. I prefer to run minimally, free of gear that weighs me down or is distracting, but sometimes it’s not only convenient but necessary to carry my cell phone. So, when a gear company comes around saying they’ve got a new belt that stays put, I get excited. Skeptical, but excited.
Rest of the review available after the jump: Read more… »
People tend to think of riding a bike as a way to exercise, but overlook it as a great way to explore your neighborhood and burn calories at the same time. As I flipped through the May 2014 edition of “Cycle California Magazine,” (PDF) the “Prescription for better health” column added great insight:
“Cycling can conveniently and pleasantly burn calories. In fact daily 75 minute rides burn enough calories to lose over a pound per week. So just riding to work may be enough to win the battle of the bulge. Every 30 to 60 minute ride stimulates both the adrenal and thyroid glands to produce adrenaline and thyroxin. These hormones act to increase riders’ metabolisms up to 25 percent for 15 hours after the initial exercise. This increased basal metabolic rate causes an after-burn of calories. Thus the weight loss process continues even when you rest. Cycling also strengthens and develops muscle mass, so that weight loss is further induced by thermogenesis.”
I have a lot of casual biking tips to share with everyone in the future – so stay tuned and remember, have fun but stay safe out there.
(Thanks to Monique Rodriguez for the excellent photo.)
The Tour of California begins tomorrow from Sacramento, California, as some of the biggest names in cycling will blur by on Golden State roads.
Along with Peter Sagan, whose 10 stages tallies the highest in ToC history, will be joined by former Tour de France champion Bradley Wiggins and sprinting ace Mark Cavendish.
Sir Bradley Wiggins heads the squad this time around and he will be aiming to make his mark on the overall standings. Ian Boswell, Joe Dombrowski and Danny Pate will also be aiming to impress on home soil, with Nathan Earle, Christian Knees and Luke Rowe rounding out a talented eight-man line up.
Whether you love him or hate him, Wiggins looks to be in great shape and wants to show everyone he is on form for the 2014 Tour de France in July.
I am a fan of Team Cannondale rider Peter Sagan, one of the fastest cyclists in the European peloton. Not only is he a talented rider, he is a popular draw among cycling fans.
To capitalize, apparel maker Sugoi has launched a custom Cannondale Peter Sagan jersey prior to the Tour of California. The jersey should be available in the United States by June 15, with a $100 MSRP.
“I wanted a jersey that spoke to my inner drive to win, but also shows off my fun side. Working with Sugoi they quickly understood my vision, and I hope people love the jersey as much as I do,” Sagan said in a company press release.
I look forward to seeing Sagan at the 2014 Tour of California, where he will look to improve his leading 10 career stage wins in the Golden State.
I know the Alameda Runners have owned a few pieces of Sugoi gear over the years, and its products are simply incredible. (You will pay for that quality however, so don’t get sticker shock!)
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