I recently rode to Mandurah a seaside resort 70 to 75km from home.
On the way down on Saturday morning, with a slight tailwind my average was around 28, 29km/h.
This was a great result as I was taking it easy with a sore right knee. The distance was 72km.
Returning on Sunday afternoon a few hours before sunset was even better.
However there was a strong side/tailwind that felt more like a headwind all the way.
I also took a longer way home to miss a number of busy roads.
The trip home was 75km and I happily recorded an average speed of 31km/h.
Two hours and 25 minutes from Mandurah to home. :)
This includes the warm up start and the warm down finish.
I am rapt as it is the best ride I have done on the Baron for a long time.
My next target is to constantly average the same on more hilly terrain.
Cheers
Tuesday, February 6, 2018
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
Rotovelo Reiki
I am pretty sure Sunday was my first ride
in the Rotovelo to a non-cycling event.
I had an invitation to a Usui Reiki reunion at Little Covet garden in Maida Vale.
They were honouring, Dorothea for her 30 years of work, support and channeling to bring the loving light energy to as many people as possible.
It was also a great opportunity to catch up with many other Reiki channels I haven’t seen for awhile.
My wife was one of the chief organisers and had to go early, so I put my clothes, shoes etc with her.
I had an invitation to a Usui Reiki reunion at Little Covet garden in Maida Vale.
They were honouring, Dorothea for her 30 years of work, support and channeling to bring the loving light energy to as many people as possible.
It was also a great opportunity to catch up with many other Reiki channels I haven’t seen for awhile.
My wife was one of the chief organisers and had to go early, so I put my clothes, shoes etc with her.
For the ride out I decided to take the shortest
route through the ‘burbs. It certainly looked good on paper with just one
awkward hill to climb. A distance of 22km.
The steep hill was 3 km from the start and required the lowest gear I had front and back. I wasn’t warmed up at the bottom but by the top I had stripped the extra jacket and the legs were hot.
The steep hill was 3 km from the start and required the lowest gear I had front and back. I wasn’t warmed up at the bottom but by the top I had stripped the extra jacket and the legs were hot.
There were a lot of crossroads, stop signs,
roundabouts and of the course the ever hated speed bumps. These were not right
across the road and I was able to squeeze between the curb and bump for most of
them. I did slow to line up the gap. I didn’t want any scratches on my Samagas.
J
I was met with lots of kids running, laughing and waving and I happily smiled and waved back. There was also plenty of cars honking. It sounded like happy honking so I smiled and waved back.
One intriguing thing about adult reaction is many stare without expression. As
I go by I lift a hand up out of the cockpit and give them a wave. There face
usually breaks out in a smile and they say something that the wind blows away.
It’s as if they are not sure if I am human or not, then see me wave and
realise:
“Wow! There is a real person in that orange bubble thing!”
I was met with lots of kids running, laughing and waving and I happily smiled and waved back. There was also plenty of cars honking. It sounded like happy honking so I smiled and waved back.
 |
| Reiki Energy |
“Wow! There is a real person in that orange bubble thing!”
Once out of the suburbs and onto the cycle
path I had my lunch while riding. Two home made sandwiches as it was around
lunchtime when I left home. The cycle path and final roads are pretty flat so I
made good time. On one road, a car came alongside and kept pace with me. I
waved, but no response from inside the strange 4 wheeled steel thing that you
don’t pedal. ;) Then they drove off.
Mmmmm – a photo/video with the window up? Maybe cars are from Mars and Velos are from Venus???
Mmmmm – a photo/video with the window up? Maybe cars are from Mars and Velos are from Venus???
I arrived with plenty of time to spare as
the ride took one hour and two minutes. Close enough to a 22km/h average. I had
allowed 90 minutes to ride and change etc.
The Reunion was fantastic! The energy in
the air was tangible. We all had a great time chatting about our experiences
and life in general. Through Reiki I have met and continue to meet so many beautiful
and genuine people.
 |
| Riding by the river |
For the ride home I decided to go the long
way (27km) using the cycle paths (PSP) as much as possible. The main reason was
it was getting dark and the sun was low in the sky (almost sunset). And, of
course I love the ride along the river.
It must have been all that Reiki, energy
but from the first pedal stroke I felt I was flying. Later my wife who was
driving behind me at the start commented that I was going very fast.
I had the path to myself, it was dark and
cold and I was zipping along in top gear. I wasn’t even changing down for the
flyovers. I just grinded my way up them. I am a spinner so that is unusual for
me and the little voice in my head said, “Try not to bust a knee!”
When I reached the river it was very dark with
little street lighting so I set my headlight to constant and brightest setting.
I did actually bang one or two curbs on approach ramps but the Samagas didn’t
complain too much. And each wheel got one bump each so it sort of kept the
balance.
I eased off in the last 3km as I like to cool down before I get home and eased into the driveway.
I eased off in the last 3km as I like to cool down before I get home and eased into the driveway.
As I cross the driveway I click the stop
watch and stop to see the time.
The second hand was about to sweep up to
the full minute mark.
I had ridden the 27km ride home in 59 minutes and 55seconds.
An average of 27km/h – Now that really did put a smile on my face.
Maybe I should do a bit of Reiki before each ride. J
I had ridden the 27km ride home in 59 minutes and 55seconds.
An average of 27km/h – Now that really did put a smile on my face.
Maybe I should do a bit of Reiki before each ride. J
Sunday, June 4, 2017
Challenger for Highest Average Speed
Today, Sunday was very similar weather conditions to last Sunday, so I prepped my Rotovelo ready to challenge the Baron's average speed on the ride to Baldivis.
There is a roadhouse at Baldivis, on the freeway cycle path, about 47 km from my house.
Kick off time was 5:30, however I added pressure to the tyres as they were not at their maximum. Last Sunday the Baron tyre pressure was at 100psi (28-406/28-559).
I set the Rotovelo's at 62psi for the fronts (40-406) and 55 for the rear (50-406).
I was carrying exactly the same amount of luggage by weight as I did for the Baron.
South Perth to Baldivis - 47km
Baldivis to South Perth - 47km.
I started strong after my 15 minute warmup, however this time, there were no roadies to draft.
I came up behind three riders right at Canning Bridge, but as this a slow point for safety reasons, I don't think it affected the average speed.
Twice I had to slow to walking pace behind pedestrians who chose 'rights' over safety. It may have added a small amount of time but nothing too significant.
This course has many undulations of various sizes at the end of long straights of about 3km length.
The long straights may be flat or a slight up/down grade. Some of the tops of hills were beyond the range of my lights but I new them reasonably well to know how long they were.
The first part of the course is the hilliest with some on road riding. The second half was misty with a heavy dew and the inside of the RV was very damp.
I was powering away up the hills keeping a cadence of about 100 and then gearing up and cruising the downhills. The flats were hard work and at time it felt I was riding through mud. I think the tyre pressures were too low.
Two thirds of the way down I missed a gear change on an incline and really struggled over it. I realised how hard I must be riding for that to happen.
At the one hour thirty minute mark, I was between 5 & 6 km from the roadhouse. I kept going and made the roadhouse in one hour & forty minutes. An average of a little over 29km/h. This was the same as the return trip on the Baron. But I felt I rode a great deal harder in the Rotovelo than the Baron.
I had a break and was going to buy breakfast but the queues were so long I didn't bother. I ate all the spare food I had with me.
After 20 minutes I headed back thinking the return would be much longer as I felt very tired.
I continued to spin up the hills in the highest gear and get up to speed on the downhills and then coast until more power was needed to maintain speed on the flats.
The mist had gone. The sun was out. It was a beautiful calm morning. I was enjoying the scenery and the last of my food.
The time for the return trip was.... exactly the same as the outward leg. One hour & forty minutes.
I have never done and out and back and have the times the same.
It was also the same time as the return on the Baron last week. However the effort in the RV was great than on the Baron. So the Baron gets the win.
There is a roadhouse at Baldivis, on the freeway cycle path, about 47 km from my house.
Kick off time was 5:30, however I added pressure to the tyres as they were not at their maximum. Last Sunday the Baron tyre pressure was at 100psi (28-406/28-559).
I set the Rotovelo's at 62psi for the fronts (40-406) and 55 for the rear (50-406).
I was carrying exactly the same amount of luggage by weight as I did for the Baron.
South Perth to Baldivis - 47km
Baldivis to South Perth - 47km.
I started strong after my 15 minute warmup, however this time, there were no roadies to draft.
I came up behind three riders right at Canning Bridge, but as this a slow point for safety reasons, I don't think it affected the average speed.
Twice I had to slow to walking pace behind pedestrians who chose 'rights' over safety. It may have added a small amount of time but nothing too significant.
This course has many undulations of various sizes at the end of long straights of about 3km length.
The long straights may be flat or a slight up/down grade. Some of the tops of hills were beyond the range of my lights but I new them reasonably well to know how long they were.
The first part of the course is the hilliest with some on road riding. The second half was misty with a heavy dew and the inside of the RV was very damp.
I was powering away up the hills keeping a cadence of about 100 and then gearing up and cruising the downhills. The flats were hard work and at time it felt I was riding through mud. I think the tyre pressures were too low.
Two thirds of the way down I missed a gear change on an incline and really struggled over it. I realised how hard I must be riding for that to happen.
At the one hour thirty minute mark, I was between 5 & 6 km from the roadhouse. I kept going and made the roadhouse in one hour & forty minutes. An average of a little over 29km/h. This was the same as the return trip on the Baron. But I felt I rode a great deal harder in the Rotovelo than the Baron.
I had a break and was going to buy breakfast but the queues were so long I didn't bother. I ate all the spare food I had with me.
After 20 minutes I headed back thinking the return would be much longer as I felt very tired.
I continued to spin up the hills in the highest gear and get up to speed on the downhills and then coast until more power was needed to maintain speed on the flats.
The mist had gone. The sun was out. It was a beautiful calm morning. I was enjoying the scenery and the last of my food.
The time for the return trip was.... exactly the same as the outward leg. One hour & forty minutes.
I have never done and out and back and have the times the same.
It was also the same time as the return on the Baron last week. However the effort in the RV was great than on the Baron. So the Baron gets the win.
Monday, May 29, 2017
Bragging rights on average speed
On Sunday, the wind was calm, the sun was shining and the temperature was hovering under 20C.
A beautiful day for a ride.
The ride from home to the first freeway roadhouse is 47km. Return doubles it to 94km.
Not wanting to injure any vital body parts I headed off at a quiet pace for the first 5km.
I was nicely warmed up just before the hilly section of the ride.
All those days and weeks of commuting in the Rotovelo seemed to have paid big dividends.
The hills seemed shorter and the gearing higher.
Just at the end of the hills two riders on diamond frames quickly approached from behind.
I sensed they would pass quickly and disappear. I didn't bother speeding up, intent on a calm and happy ride,enjoying my own company. They passed me half way up an incline and I let them go.
As they went passed I called out a welcome hello and received only silence.
Oh well some riders are simply "in the zone".
Surprise, surprise! They slowed before the crest and I was right behind them.
Mmmmm, should I pass and be a nuisance or should I stay behind and let them speed off on the downhill? I chose the latter and as I stopped pedalling and cruised down I was still on their rear wheel. On the flat the pace was just right. So instead of passing and being a nuisance uphills or busting myself to out pace them, I decided to go along for the ride.
How restful it was to be in the draft. The baron was rock solid. Everything on the bike just worked so perfectly at that speed. Being lower than their seat height, I was getting enough air to stay comfortable and yet could feel the reduced air pressure of the draft.
These two had obviously ridden together before as they changed the lead almost like clockwork every minute or so. As they went off the front, they would stand and pedal up to the back wheel.
it was great to watch how smooth it all was and without losing any speed at all.
On each change I would hold back and wait for the change to finish then reattach to the new, different rear wheel.
The Baron was rolling so smoothly I had great momentum into a rise or hill. So much so that I would slow my cadence then change down a gear and spin up to maintain the pace.
They turned off just prior to my end point. I told them how good they were and thanked them for allowing me to draft them.
The first time I checked my watch was at the roadhouse. I couldn't believe my eyes. Slightly less than 1.5h. That gave me slightly more than 30km/h average.
Would I do similar on the way back. Almost. Without any drafting and a long slowdown at the end I returned in 1h and 40 minutes, which gave an average of slightly higher than 29.
The Baron is an absolute joy to ride and I love it everytime I get on. It is a true thoroughbred of a bike. I am glad I kept it instead of upgrading to a M5CHR last year. It is lighter and more responsive than the Rotovelo. I wish Optima was still making them.
A beautiful day for a ride.
The ride from home to the first freeway roadhouse is 47km. Return doubles it to 94km.
Not wanting to injure any vital body parts I headed off at a quiet pace for the first 5km.
I was nicely warmed up just before the hilly section of the ride.
All those days and weeks of commuting in the Rotovelo seemed to have paid big dividends.
The hills seemed shorter and the gearing higher.
Just at the end of the hills two riders on diamond frames quickly approached from behind.
I sensed they would pass quickly and disappear. I didn't bother speeding up, intent on a calm and happy ride,enjoying my own company. They passed me half way up an incline and I let them go.
As they went passed I called out a welcome hello and received only silence.
Oh well some riders are simply "in the zone".
Surprise, surprise! They slowed before the crest and I was right behind them.
Mmmmm, should I pass and be a nuisance or should I stay behind and let them speed off on the downhill? I chose the latter and as I stopped pedalling and cruised down I was still on their rear wheel. On the flat the pace was just right. So instead of passing and being a nuisance uphills or busting myself to out pace them, I decided to go along for the ride.
How restful it was to be in the draft. The baron was rock solid. Everything on the bike just worked so perfectly at that speed. Being lower than their seat height, I was getting enough air to stay comfortable and yet could feel the reduced air pressure of the draft.
These two had obviously ridden together before as they changed the lead almost like clockwork every minute or so. As they went off the front, they would stand and pedal up to the back wheel.
it was great to watch how smooth it all was and without losing any speed at all.
On each change I would hold back and wait for the change to finish then reattach to the new, different rear wheel.
The Baron was rolling so smoothly I had great momentum into a rise or hill. So much so that I would slow my cadence then change down a gear and spin up to maintain the pace.
They turned off just prior to my end point. I told them how good they were and thanked them for allowing me to draft them.
The first time I checked my watch was at the roadhouse. I couldn't believe my eyes. Slightly less than 1.5h. That gave me slightly more than 30km/h average.
Would I do similar on the way back. Almost. Without any drafting and a long slowdown at the end I returned in 1h and 40 minutes, which gave an average of slightly higher than 29.
The Baron is an absolute joy to ride and I love it everytime I get on. It is a true thoroughbred of a bike. I am glad I kept it instead of upgrading to a M5CHR last year. It is lighter and more responsive than the Rotovelo. I wish Optima was still making them.
Thursday, March 2, 2017
Baron v Rotovelo
Now that I have continued to commute 3, 4 or 5 days to work each week in the Rotovelo the Baron is always in perfect working order ready for the next sports ride.
If I am riding with my mates on their road bikes or with buddies on their Baron's or other recumbent bikes, the Baron is the bike for those rides.
At the moment it is due to me being faster up short hills on the Baron compared to the RV.
however the difference is getting smaller and smaller.
To sustain a high speed on the Baron it definitely takes more power to stay at that speed.
With the Rotovelo is feels it can be sustained more easily.
there is less momentum on the Baron when starting and incline and pedal power is added sooner than the RV.
There is a sense that the RV allows for rests while maintaining speed and then extreme work for hills.
The Baron in comparison requires continuous input.
I also anticipate that the Baron will be quicker on steep and long climbs than the Rotovelo.
No matter which one I ride I am having fun and getting stronger.
A 75km flat ride recently had my average higher in the RV than when I did it on the Baron.
32km/h versus 30km/h.
I don't know when but it will get to the point where the difference is small enough for the RV to make up the differences on the flat or downhill.
If I am riding with my mates on their road bikes or with buddies on their Baron's or other recumbent bikes, the Baron is the bike for those rides.
At the moment it is due to me being faster up short hills on the Baron compared to the RV.
however the difference is getting smaller and smaller.
To sustain a high speed on the Baron it definitely takes more power to stay at that speed.
With the Rotovelo is feels it can be sustained more easily.
there is less momentum on the Baron when starting and incline and pedal power is added sooner than the RV.
There is a sense that the RV allows for rests while maintaining speed and then extreme work for hills.
The Baron in comparison requires continuous input.
I also anticipate that the Baron will be quicker on steep and long climbs than the Rotovelo.
No matter which one I ride I am having fun and getting stronger.
A 75km flat ride recently had my average higher in the RV than when I did it on the Baron.
32km/h versus 30km/h.
I don't know when but it will get to the point where the difference is small enough for the RV to make up the differences on the flat or downhill.
Friday, December 2, 2016
Commuting to Work
I now have an orange Rotovelo (RV) to commute to work and back each day.
I will keep the Baron for week and weekend bike rides.
The RV is not new and is taking some time to set up to my liking.
I have been sorting out tyre pressures, steering, lumbar support, boom length and gearing for the riding side of it.
Because of the ease of carrying equipment, I need to sort out the organisation on the inside.
For example: location of tool kit, storage bags, instruments, communication, sound system, batteries. It is going to be fun. It reminds me of when I used to race kayaks, only drier and a lot more internal space.
I will keep the Baron for week and weekend bike rides.
The RV is not new and is taking some time to set up to my liking.
I have been sorting out tyre pressures, steering, lumbar support, boom length and gearing for the riding side of it.
Because of the ease of carrying equipment, I need to sort out the organisation on the inside.
For example: location of tool kit, storage bags, instruments, communication, sound system, batteries. It is going to be fun. It reminds me of when I used to race kayaks, only drier and a lot more internal space.
Friday, November 4, 2016
Stablemate
The Raptor will have a new buddy soon. I hope they get on together.
More news soon when he/she arrives.
Who is it?
Hint: Orange colour and more than two wheels. :)
Sunday, October 30, 2016
Wildlife on the Cycle Path
The south freeway cyclepath was teaming with wildlife this morning.
A two metre snake, two bobtailed goanna, three rats and a hawk.
I also saw many cyclists as well. There were many groups, small groups ob TT bikes and many pairs of cyclists working against the 20km/hr headwind.
I met a lovely couple at the food stop who are training for a big event in NZ which attracts 10 000 riders.
My ride was further rewarding as I managed a 25km/h average over 110km.
A two metre snake, two bobtailed goanna, three rats and a hawk.
I also saw many cyclists as well. There were many groups, small groups ob TT bikes and many pairs of cyclists working against the 20km/hr headwind.
I met a lovely couple at the food stop who are training for a big event in NZ which attracts 10 000 riders.
My ride was further rewarding as I managed a 25km/h average over 110km.
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Pedal Prix Busselton 2016
I journeyed down to Busselton to catch up with the Pedal Prix and what a blast it was.
These machines are awesome. Some are home made and some are production models. The frames seems to all be out of chrome moly and the fairing can be a combination of coreflute, fibreglass, perspex or carbon fibre.
The formula is very well regulated as many school teams from Primary school age to Secondary and then the open and master classes.
The speed of the top teams is very fast. They were, on average completing a 900m lap in under one and a half minutes. I'll let you do the Math on that.
If you can get to a pedal prix event, then do it. The people who organise and ride these machines are as awesome as the machines themselves.
These machines are awesome. Some are home made and some are production models. The frames seems to all be out of chrome moly and the fairing can be a combination of coreflute, fibreglass, perspex or carbon fibre.
The formula is very well regulated as many school teams from Primary school age to Secondary and then the open and master classes.
The speed of the top teams is very fast. They were, on average completing a 900m lap in under one and a half minutes. I'll let you do the Math on that.
If you can get to a pedal prix event, then do it. The people who organise and ride these machines are as awesome as the machines themselves.
Monday, August 15, 2016
Upping the average
I think house maintenance may have a postive impact on my cycling.
After hours of painting and repairing house parts which included some serious mileage walking up and down stairs has quickly built up my power output on the bike.
You could add exercise regimen to that as well.
Less than a month ago my riding average was around 23 km/h. On the last three rides I achieved an average of between 25 and 28km/h.
The rides were on the same roads na dbike paths that I always ride. The weather was changeabe. On one ride it was dry sunny and windless on the outbound. Inbound was with a headwind, rain and bitter cold (all on the same day). Outboudn was 28km/h. Inbound 25km/h.
Yesterday's ride around the river to Shelley bridge and return was in glorious weather. The wind shifted from southerly to south westerley. So a little wind assistance. The scenery was glorious and I stuck to a high cadence that was comfortable but not too difficult. My average was 26km/h.
I hope this trend continues as I would love to have an average speed in the 30s.
The house mainteneance is all complete too, so I will have to find more time for the set routines on the exercise bike.
After hours of painting and repairing house parts which included some serious mileage walking up and down stairs has quickly built up my power output on the bike.
You could add exercise regimen to that as well.
Less than a month ago my riding average was around 23 km/h. On the last three rides I achieved an average of between 25 and 28km/h.
The rides were on the same roads na dbike paths that I always ride. The weather was changeabe. On one ride it was dry sunny and windless on the outbound. Inbound was with a headwind, rain and bitter cold (all on the same day). Outboudn was 28km/h. Inbound 25km/h.
Yesterday's ride around the river to Shelley bridge and return was in glorious weather. The wind shifted from southerly to south westerley. So a little wind assistance. The scenery was glorious and I stuck to a high cadence that was comfortable but not too difficult. My average was 26km/h.
I hope this trend continues as I would love to have an average speed in the 30s.
The house mainteneance is all complete too, so I will have to find more time for the set routines on the exercise bike.
Tuesday, August 9, 2016
Post Delirium
April to August is a long while to give a report on the Delirium. But it has taken a while to feel like talking about it. There were/are many questions about what actually happened.
Some things I did very well and others caused problems.
In summary:
Started too fast for too long - Sitting on a HR in the high 130s.
I got it under control sometime after the first hour.
Ate too little - I was so excited I failed to follow my plan and start eating straight away. I did not eat enough during the ride. I just could not get the food down and felt nauseas if I forced myself to eat.
Drank too much - or so it seemed as I had a full bladder every 30 to 40 minutes. There must have been an ocean in there!
Maintained the prescribed intake of electrolytes.
Kept to my rest stop plans.
Sat in on some great long drafts to boost distance.
Kept away from the very fast packs.
Used good cornering lines to maintain speed and effort.
Second place in my age group. Beaten by about 15 km.
Missed the presentation but received the second place medal in the post.
At around the 12th hour I went in for a two hour sleep. After an hour I got up to pee and promptly passed out and had an atrial fibrillation (AF) episode.
Ambulanced off to emergency where they treated me as a dehydrated cyclist. Trouble is I still argue my fluids were up and I was not dehydrated - something else was happening.
That was the end of my effort at 285 km. I was very disappointed that I had mismanaged my event so badly. I was very despondent about the whole cycling hobby after that and didn't touch the bike for a month.
I started doing small 20 - 30km rides. I went out to enjoy the view and company. I experimented with a higher cadence in a lower gear. I wore my heart monitor to record HR against physical effort so as to know the reasons an AF episode occurred and why I passed out.
Im currently riding around 150 km a week and enjoying cruising around. I have not had an AF episode for two months. On a longer ride I do not have to pee every 30 minutes. Its more like every hour to 90 minutes. I have not taken my electrolytes for two months either. Are all these things related?
Some things I did very well and others caused problems.
In summary:
Started too fast for too long - Sitting on a HR in the high 130s.
I got it under control sometime after the first hour.
Ate too little - I was so excited I failed to follow my plan and start eating straight away. I did not eat enough during the ride. I just could not get the food down and felt nauseas if I forced myself to eat.
Drank too much - or so it seemed as I had a full bladder every 30 to 40 minutes. There must have been an ocean in there!
Maintained the prescribed intake of electrolytes.
Kept to my rest stop plans.
Sat in on some great long drafts to boost distance.
Kept away from the very fast packs.
Used good cornering lines to maintain speed and effort.
Second place in my age group. Beaten by about 15 km.
Missed the presentation but received the second place medal in the post.
At around the 12th hour I went in for a two hour sleep. After an hour I got up to pee and promptly passed out and had an atrial fibrillation (AF) episode.
Ambulanced off to emergency where they treated me as a dehydrated cyclist. Trouble is I still argue my fluids were up and I was not dehydrated - something else was happening.
That was the end of my effort at 285 km. I was very disappointed that I had mismanaged my event so badly. I was very despondent about the whole cycling hobby after that and didn't touch the bike for a month.
I started doing small 20 - 30km rides. I went out to enjoy the view and company. I experimented with a higher cadence in a lower gear. I wore my heart monitor to record HR against physical effort so as to know the reasons an AF episode occurred and why I passed out.
Im currently riding around 150 km a week and enjoying cruising around. I have not had an AF episode for two months. On a longer ride I do not have to pee every 30 minutes. Its more like every hour to 90 minutes. I have not taken my electrolytes for two months either. Are all these things related?
Monday, August 8, 2016
Perth Recumbent Riders
My good cycling buddy Glen created this group and we have had a number of rides in the past two months. You can view all the action on Facebook if you search for Perth Recumbent Riders.
If you live in the region of Perth, and ride a recumbent, then join in on the next ride. It would be great to catch up. The group is for bikes and trikes although trikes out numbered bikes at the very first ride.
Two wheels good. Three wheels trikey!
If you live in the region of Perth, and ride a recumbent, then join in on the next ride. It would be great to catch up. The group is for bikes and trikes although trikes out numbered bikes at the very first ride.
Two wheels good. Three wheels trikey!
Little Covet Garden
A cold winter's ride started last Saturday morning under blue sky and a steady northerly breeze.
I decided to go check out the new "Fairyville" in Little Covet Garden in Maida Vale.
The ride out down the Freeway, Roe Highway, Hawtin Road, was relaxing. I was hiking along at a good pace and really enjoyed having the cycleway to myself (Calculated average of 28km/h, which is brilliant for me!). Along Hawtin road I did not have one incident with other road users. This was my first ride on roads since April and was wary but relaxed by the courteousness of drivers. At slow points or narrowing of the road cars would not squeeze but rather wait until I cleared the control. I gave a friendly thank you wave as they passed.
Fairyville at Little Covet Garden is delightful with colourful building fronts. There is a town square and of course many fairies going about their daily business. You can book your own tour of the garden and fairyville at anytime of the year. The garden tours are extremely popular.
Two minutes after leaving the rain started and the wind whipped up to a strong headwind.
The rain jacket was doing a good job, however the rain was being driven sideways by the wind.
Each raindrop felt like a tiny needle stabbed into my face.
Not to be outdone I lifted my scarf to shield my face. This immediatley brought relief.
I was breathing fine until the scarf was completely soaked and would be sucked into my mouth at each breath. So it was back to stinging needle stabs.
Back home after an hour and a half, a hot shower fixed all numbness out of my face and other parts.
I tell everyone I had a good ride and was only caught in one shower of rain...that pelted me and lasted for 90 minutes. No matter, I still enjoyed the ride.
I decided to go check out the new "Fairyville" in Little Covet Garden in Maida Vale.
The ride out down the Freeway, Roe Highway, Hawtin Road, was relaxing. I was hiking along at a good pace and really enjoyed having the cycleway to myself (Calculated average of 28km/h, which is brilliant for me!). Along Hawtin road I did not have one incident with other road users. This was my first ride on roads since April and was wary but relaxed by the courteousness of drivers. At slow points or narrowing of the road cars would not squeeze but rather wait until I cleared the control. I gave a friendly thank you wave as they passed.
Fairyville at Little Covet Garden is delightful with colourful building fronts. There is a town square and of course many fairies going about their daily business. You can book your own tour of the garden and fairyville at anytime of the year. The garden tours are extremely popular.
Two minutes after leaving the rain started and the wind whipped up to a strong headwind.
The rain jacket was doing a good job, however the rain was being driven sideways by the wind.
Each raindrop felt like a tiny needle stabbed into my face.
Not to be outdone I lifted my scarf to shield my face. This immediatley brought relief.
I was breathing fine until the scarf was completely soaked and would be sucked into my mouth at each breath. So it was back to stinging needle stabs.
Back home after an hour and a half, a hot shower fixed all numbness out of my face and other parts.
I tell everyone I had a good ride and was only caught in one shower of rain...that pelted me and lasted for 90 minutes. No matter, I still enjoyed the ride.
Thursday, April 14, 2016
Delirium 24 hour cycle race
After months of training I am as ready as I will ever be for the 24 hour event.
The bike is working well, I have all my spares packed, food, water, pit crew is primed ready for the start on Saturday.
I am quite excited and really looking forward to the challenge. I do hope the rain gods stay away for this one.
There are more than 70 solo riders and more than 31 teams so the 2 km circuit will be full of riders.
I am hoping to be able to draft a group going at about the same pace.
Other than that I am not in a hurry and will be plodding along 'tortoise' style to the end.
If I can crack 500km I will be ecstatic.
The ride is also a fundraiser for the institute of respiratory health, so if you feel inclined to give me added motivation you can donate here:
The progressive results are also posted at: metarace.com.au
Cheers
Friday, February 26, 2016
Deliriously Back in the Saddle
After a very long hiatus I am back to regular cycling.
Actually I have been at it since the start of the new year - a resolution I have been able to keep.
I am not quite light enough for the Baron, so the commuter bike has been pressed into
daily service.
The biggest change I noticed was the much greater volume of cyclists everywhere. Before, I might pass or get passed by a few cyclists. Now there are hundreds of them passing me!
Perhaps I am not as fast as I used to be. :)
What hasn't changed is my enjoyment of the ride. I have really missed getting out, riding with mates and enjoying the scenery.
Recently I had a "Nike" (Just do it!) moment and registered to ride in the Delirium 24 hour bike race in Busselton. Is something wrong to think cycling for 24 hours will be fun?
The training at the moment is fun and gives my cycling a targeted purpose.
I watched part of it in the pouring rain last year and thought it was a super well run event and would be fun to be in a team.
Rhe race has been moved to Busselton and the course is mostly newly laid asphalt and very, very flat.
It is a rectangular 2km lap. So the ride is in a great location on an excellent circuit.
I hope I don't get too dizzy and I have way too much fun!
If anyone has got any tips or hints on how I might survive this madness please tell me via the comments.
Cheers
Actually I have been at it since the start of the new year - a resolution I have been able to keep.
I am not quite light enough for the Baron, so the commuter bike has been pressed into
daily service.
The biggest change I noticed was the much greater volume of cyclists everywhere. Before, I might pass or get passed by a few cyclists. Now there are hundreds of them passing me!
Perhaps I am not as fast as I used to be. :)
What hasn't changed is my enjoyment of the ride. I have really missed getting out, riding with mates and enjoying the scenery.
Recently I had a "Nike" (Just do it!) moment and registered to ride in the Delirium 24 hour bike race in Busselton. Is something wrong to think cycling for 24 hours will be fun?
The training at the moment is fun and gives my cycling a targeted purpose.
I watched part of it in the pouring rain last year and thought it was a super well run event and would be fun to be in a team.
Rhe race has been moved to Busselton and the course is mostly newly laid asphalt and very, very flat.
It is a rectangular 2km lap. So the ride is in a great location on an excellent circuit.
I hope I don't get too dizzy and I have way too much fun!
If anyone has got any tips or hints on how I might survive this madness please tell me via the comments.
Cheers
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Rotovelo
I had the chance to sit in one of these Australian made velo machines on the weekend.
When I turned up the owner was cleaning the driveline. The RV was on it side and there was easy access to all parts.
Rotovelo by Trisled is much smaller than what I had imagined. The new upgraded lighting system was impressive. I use ayups on my lowracer so I know just how brilliant they are.
Climbing on board reminded me of the correct way to get in a kayak. That is to keep the knees straight until almost seated.
As the ergonomics were setup for the owner I did not ride it. However the amount of leg, foot and pedal room was generous.
I felt the seating position and the fall of the hand on the controls was excellent and I could imagine myself riding one for many years. Be sure to have good strong shoulders and arms for getting out.
It would be a big jump for me from bicycle to velo. The ease of jumping on a single track bike and weaving in and out and around and leaning through corners still thrills me.
The greater aerodynamics and comfort of the RV, its carrying capacity and protection from the elements is enticing.
When I turned up the owner was cleaning the driveline. The RV was on it side and there was easy access to all parts.
Rotovelo by Trisled is much smaller than what I had imagined. The new upgraded lighting system was impressive. I use ayups on my lowracer so I know just how brilliant they are.
Climbing on board reminded me of the correct way to get in a kayak. That is to keep the knees straight until almost seated.
As the ergonomics were setup for the owner I did not ride it. However the amount of leg, foot and pedal room was generous.
I felt the seating position and the fall of the hand on the controls was excellent and I could imagine myself riding one for many years. Be sure to have good strong shoulders and arms for getting out.
It would be a big jump for me from bicycle to velo. The ease of jumping on a single track bike and weaving in and out and around and leaning through corners still thrills me.
The greater aerodynamics and comfort of the RV, its carrying capacity and protection from the elements is enticing.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Out of the Ordinary
A Sunday morning to myself and what could be better than a
leisurely ride around the river to Fremantle Beach and back. However with the temperature set into the high 30's (Celsius), I wanted to be back early.
The first sign that it was going to be a different ride than
the norm was my cycling clothes were all over the house. Why weren’t they
neatly all together next to the bike?
Jersey in one room, knicks in another, put my shoes on and
check the tyres.
Where’s the sunblock? Outside. Shoes off to trapes through the house.
Shoes back on and wait where is helmet and cap? Shoes back off and I go searching for these two elusives. They are always in the last place I look. J
Where’s the sunblock? Outside. Shoes off to trapes through the house.
Shoes back on and wait where is helmet and cap? Shoes back off and I go searching for these two elusives. They are always in the last place I look. J
In case I forget anything else I pump up the tyres before
shoeing up.
Hmmm, pump not getting air into either tyre. I fiddle for 15 minutes and for some unknown reason the pump works fine and desired psi is achieved.
Hmmm, pump not getting air into either tyre. I fiddle for 15 minutes and for some unknown reason the pump works fine and desired psi is achieved.
By this time a little voice in my head is saying, “You know,
maybe you just don’t ride. Like, rest in bed, have breakfast, read?”
But I held true and whatever happens on the ride happens and
I will cope with it. And then I checked my puncture kit, tools and credit card.
The first unusual was a forward crash into a doggy poo
wheely bin. 200 metres from home I turn hard left to get onto a PSP (public
shared path). On the right of the turn is said bin chained to a pole, usually
half a metre from the path. However, today it was on the edge of the path and as
I turned in, my right crank it cushioned into the centre of it, pushing me
back. With one hand on the ground, I steadied, pushed up and kept going. I
didn’t even unclip. I hope it looked elegant.
The ride over the narrows and along Mounts Bay Road was cool
and picturesque. There must have been more than 20 boats of people dropping
crab nets in the vane hope of catching a feed. I set a steady but low average
pace and sucked in the fresh air and scenery.
Just before Fremantle came the second unusual event. What was
that tick, tick ticking noise?
Something in the tyre? Stop and check both tyres. Nothing. Check the front wheel. Oh a broken spoke. Well that is the first time for 5 years. No problem, just tuck it in to get stealth mode and go and enjoy the beach. Half an hour of laying, dozing listening to the waves was quite invigorating. Next time I will bring a bike lock and go for a swim.
Something in the tyre? Stop and check both tyres. Nothing. Check the front wheel. Oh a broken spoke. Well that is the first time for 5 years. No problem, just tuck it in to get stealth mode and go and enjoy the beach. Half an hour of laying, dozing listening to the waves was quite invigorating. Next time I will bring a bike lock and go for a swim.
On the return leg I consciously remind myself to
take due care and protect my wounded front wheel. Then I here that infamous
tick, tick, ticking. Stop. Sure enough a second spoke gone on the front. No
worries, I still have 18 doing there job. Five minutes later more ticking.
Stopping I find broken spoke number three. At this rate I will run
out of spokes before getting home.
Mmmmmm, taxis time or put it in the lap of the gods?.... Lap
of the Gods. I still have 17 spokes out of 20 holding on. Surely with care
that is still enough??? Thank goodness the new tube in the rear wheel is
behaving itself.
Riding along now I have 15km from home and decide to take a
few shortcuts due to the very hot temperature and front wheel. Half way along Kintail road there is suddenly two bumps
from the rear and then an almighty bang!
Yep! The rear wheel tube has let go. I stop without falling
off and scamper to the cool shade of the nearest tree. I find to my misfortune
that the tube has split along a seam and is not salvageable.
It is at this time that I discover my bike pump will work
for Schrader and not Presta valves. When did this happen? I was perplexed. I
tried turning the opening around etc, but
no luck. Unusual circumstance five.
Okay I am about 1km from Canning cycle shop. The choice is to leave the split tyre in place and walk there or change the tube and walk. Not wanting to damage the spare tube I leave the old tube in and start walking to the shop. I am impressed by the way I can hold onto the top of the seat and steer and push the bike as I walk.
I go into the store and purchase an adaptor to convert from Schrader
to Presta valve.
Outside I go and install the spare tube. I start pumping and in my energetic efforts the pump handle says goodbye to the pump!!
Outside I go and install the spare tube. I start pumping and in my energetic efforts the pump handle says goodbye to the pump!!
Into the shop with wheel and kindly has to use a floor pump,
which I did. Thank you Canning Cycles
for your generosity.
The rest of the ride home was slow and hot and without
anymore dramas, thankfully.
It was super super hot by this time and after gallons of
water, a swim and lunch I felt much better and laughed and reflected on a ride
to remember.
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Head Winds
How is that when the wind is blowing strong and hard, it is always a headwind?
This mornings ride was just like that. Strong headwinds or side winds all the way.
It has been blowing hard for a few days now. From the East.
usually it ends by mid afternoon and the southwest wind blows and cools.
However at the moment it is Easterly all day.
Speed was down and effort was up so much so I felt I was on a continual rise.
I definitely have to do more in the engine department.
This mornings ride was just like that. Strong headwinds or side winds all the way.
It has been blowing hard for a few days now. From the East.
usually it ends by mid afternoon and the southwest wind blows and cools.
However at the moment it is Easterly all day.
Speed was down and effort was up so much so I felt I was on a continual rise.
I definitely have to do more in the engine department.
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Big Start
Happy New Year to everyone and I hope all your dreams and resolutions for 2015 come true.
Two rides in two days is a good start to the New Year.
A leisurely Guildford loop via the Great Eastern Hwy/Ascot racecourse cycle paths to Garvey Park.
If the back door to the cafe is open you can get a coffee or tea.
The lady very kindly did this for us even though they were not open.
From Garvey I headed down the cycle path alongside GEH (Great Eastern Hwy) and crossed the Helena Valley Bridge into Guildford.
The new section of cycle path is brilliant. It is wide like the new freeway path, well signposted and minimum number of stoppages or crossovers.
From Garvey I headed down the cycle path alongside GEH (Great Eastern Hwy) and crossed the Helena Valley Bridge into Guildford.
The new section of cycle path is brilliant. It is wide like the new freeway path, well signposted and minimum number of stoppages or crossovers.
A Shelley loop ride with the return going over Manning road and riding passed Canning College to Hayman road. I must admit the legs were rather tired from the previous day's Guildford ride but still very enjoyable. The scenery was idyllic. There were lots of cyclists riding and plenty of people paddling canoes.
There are lots of cycling goals I would like to achieve this year.
The big ones are:
Commute to work at least twice a week.
Ride three to five 200s.
And the big one is organise and ride the Great Southern Railway from York to Albany. If I don't make it to Albany then to Katanning. Yet to be decided.
The reason for creating and riding this railway line is due to a great sense of family heritage. My father worked on this railway for many years, driving steam engines and then diesel engines. Other family members farmed in and around Tambellup and Kendenup.
Initial ideas is to ride just after Easter around the 5th of April where the temperature is not too hot or too cold, the landscape is starting to green up and the freight traffic volume will be low.
If anyone knows about the side tracks or rail trails down this line please let me know.
Ride three to five 200s.
And the big one is organise and ride the Great Southern Railway from York to Albany. If I don't make it to Albany then to Katanning. Yet to be decided.
The reason for creating and riding this railway line is due to a great sense of family heritage. My father worked on this railway for many years, driving steam engines and then diesel engines. Other family members farmed in and around Tambellup and Kendenup.
Initial ideas is to ride just after Easter around the 5th of April where the temperature is not too hot or too cold, the landscape is starting to green up and the freight traffic volume will be low.
If anyone knows about the side tracks or rail trails down this line please let me know.
Monday, December 1, 2014
Shelley Loop
This weekend was a leisurely cycle on what is becoming one of my favourite, most picturesque loop rides. After considering other options of going along rail lines or freeways, I could not drag myself away from the river. The hillier, around the Swan would have been great however with the extra festive season commitments I opted for a flatter ride for quicker recovery. It is an embarrassment to wake in the middle of a conversation not knowing how long it has been that the speaker stopped talking. :) Or worse, I am asked an open ended question about their topic and I have no idea what I was listening to. :)
Starting mid morning we did not come across any group rides and the road traffic was low. The river was at its splendid best with sparkling water and numerous bird life. I felt strong and again surprised myself on maintaining a strong cadence in one higher gear, riding most of the time in 2/7. I topped the Shelley hill in 2/2 which was a first for this return to riding. All this was surprising as I had not pushed a pedal all week. It was very interesting to note how a full week of rest actually improved my power. So for this week I will give myself a rest day on Wednesday and Friday and see how it all feels on Saturday. Maybe that will be a good balance between riding and resting.
Starting mid morning we did not come across any group rides and the road traffic was low. The river was at its splendid best with sparkling water and numerous bird life. I felt strong and again surprised myself on maintaining a strong cadence in one higher gear, riding most of the time in 2/7. I topped the Shelley hill in 2/2 which was a first for this return to riding. All this was surprising as I had not pushed a pedal all week. It was very interesting to note how a full week of rest actually improved my power. So for this week I will give myself a rest day on Wednesday and Friday and see how it all feels on Saturday. Maybe that will be a good balance between riding and resting.
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