I have to say (yet again)... This is - IMHO - currently the best UA-cam channel / Podcast in road cycling. You two set the tone for the discussion / debate / conversation that I really want to hear. (also loving the collaboration with Tyler Pearce)
According to a recent video by Dylan Johnson, who tested number plate in a wind tunnel, it represents a tremendous wattage loss if you put it on the front of the bike in the fully-visible/designated manner. There's still some loss wrapping it around the head tube, but it's fairly minimal.
@@christopherrahilly8425 The USWe hydration pack was a surprising gain to me. Those systems are great on long rides but I always assumed they were bad for aero. Now I want one. Haha
Fondo kit littering: At 3 peaks they have a station at the bottom of Falls Creek and evryone puts there jumpers, tshirts ect into it and its donated to people in need. Its the only part of the ride thats cold, normally. More Fondos need to do this.
I have a bunch of musician friends that always say things like "blah blah blah...cycling is your PASSION", and I constantly have to find a way to explain what it actually is. 95% of the time it's not about going out and enjoying the views, or being with people on a social ride. Most of the time, it's a chance to think. A time to work out frustrations, and generally as you two said a time to take "make me a better person". 100% of the time it is about giving me a sense of accomplishment for the day. It's really easy to to not get a sense of satisfaction from a job, so a bike ride is a way for me to feel like I did something "worthwhile" on any given day.
My wife wanted to put some faces to the podcast she is forced to listen to. Her thoughts; “he doesn’t run a saddle bag nor an iron. Those bums need to iron their shirts” 😂
I recently took a 5 day break with the family and this time decided to coincide it with some recovery and have a complete break off the bike -what a mistake! Spent 5 days regretting not taking a bike. Usually take a bike and get up super early get a ride done often before my family has even risen. Despite the lack of sleep my mood is so much better! Definitely an addiction but there are of course, far worse things to be addicted to...
I think waking up early, riding before everyone is really up and doing much helps a ton, the family doesn’t feel like their time with you is being cut in to and you get to do what you love
As for partners, I just did an 80km training ride, got home, unpacked my kit, washed my bike, dried, lubed etc. Had a shower, went upstairs for a coffee and my wife was still asleep. Now I’m enjoying my coffee watching this hot mess. No family time lost.
Great chat, yep I ride to not feel sad, not be a crappy human in front of others and to get that sense/feeling of accomplishment at the start of the day ✌️
Chris, I don't stop at rest stops during gran fondos... because YOU told me not to hahaha (don't recall which of your videos, but this was your tactical advice) As a result- I beat all my riding mates. I DID inform them before that I was not stopping. If the clock is running, then I'm riding.
Well, you hit on what is easily my biggest pet peeve with the recreational side of road cycling - wearing pro team kit. I know this is an entirely different sort of thing, but NFL teams make around 4 billion per year from merchandise sales. And that is primarily composed of jerseys, caps, jackets, etc. Yes, they are franchises and yes, there is this entire structure around them so that they can make money. But sports apparel is one of the biggest industries there is...everywhere. If someone wants to ride around, head-to-toe in team kit...they deserve credit, not blame. They are actually financially supporting (in some way) the sport many others like being elitist about. I have never once saw someone walking down the street in a Tom Brady jersey and thought 'Is that Tom Brady? Are they trying to make everyone think they are Tom Brady? At 5 foot, 8?' And if they want to wear the kit, ride the bike, don the helmet, glasses and shoes....think about how much money they had to spend to do that. Let 'em do it. More power to them.
I totally agree with the others… yea I love the breakdowns and the pro/race stuff of other channels but it doesn’t apply to me at the core. Let’s be honest, for the rest of us, we are talking more about these topics: kits, riding, food, mates, positions, etc. Absolutely brilliant… thanks for being like us! Love the ability to look at yourselves and laugh and tease. That’s what’s all about, right? Being on the bike! Can’t wait for these to upload. Motivation at its best.
Great podcast as usual well-done, my motivation comes from my heart surgeon, after a major heart attack about 18 months ago on the bike and post ride, my surgeon explained that if it wasn't for my fitness from cycling the end results would have been totally different and I wouldn't be here to write this comment. So for me that's Great motivation to keep riding/training. I generally now average 180-200 kms per week all outdoors. Next birthday I turn 70yo.👍.
Just did the Roubaix challenge (sportive really) - was a great experience and you had all types of riders, bikes and speeds going on over the cobbles and mix in the pro’s doing their recon rides. Took my time and had a great day out!
Congrats on another cracking episode... OK, some observations from RVV Cyclo (Tour of Flanders Grand Fondo) last weekend: Not only should number be displayed at front but you need to use cable ties to make it as clearly visible as possible (think flat and maximum drag!) because, as mentioned by Chris, software identifies you for photos. I got over 40 professional photos plus video footage of every major climb (Koppenberg, Kwaremont, Paterberg etc.) ... One of the clear don'ts was waiting for mates right at the top of climbs (it's not hard to ride an extra 50 or 100 meters along the road.) Also, when you get off to walk on a climb you really should stay as close to the right as possible, leaving room for the many who really want to make it to the top of the iconic climbs (I was only held up, and forced to walk, once on the ride.) ... Stopping at designated food stops just makes the ride more enjoyable (nice vibe, free quality food, sports drinks and even Red Bull so you can save carrying all those necessary carbs plus it effectively divides the ride into easily manageable sections.) ... Finally, in the filthiest of Belgian conditions with constant rain, wind and 4 degrees, I think that I may have nailed the kit selection with winter bib tights, long-sleeve Gabba, Rapha shake-dry, long Spatz overshoes, neoprene gloves, and Gore-Tex over shorts. ... Looking back, the tough conditions actually made the event way more memorable and possibly even more enjoyable :)
Pretty much every other sport you can wear a 'team kit' without any issue. But in cycling it seems it upsets many people which is a good reason to go out and buy one.
From hearing you guys talk about Fondos in Australia. They are what fondos where in Europe 10 years ago. Now they basically are amateur road races, aero everything and ever more competitive each year. Love the podcast, cheers from France
Thanks Hugo. Yeh I think you are right, in many ways it’s due to the death of actual proper road races, people are just desperate to have a competitive day out, and teh fondos have starting fitting that bill.
@@ChrisMillerCycling Yeah, because the actuall amateur road races are shit at marketing themself. They basically have not changed the past 20-30 years. Super burocratic and not going digital etc. I still prefer official races. But they have to step up their game soon or they will vanish. The only country doing it right in Europe is Belgium.
Shout-out from Brazil, this the Best bike talkshow right now, for sure! Love the dynamic, the honesty covering the topics, wait every week to watch while I train indoors!
The wonderful thing about Fondos are that all kinds of riders participate. Ultimately, the hardcore Racing Rules don't apply, except for the usual "be safe". Don't take it so seriously & just enjoy the Ride. PS: if you want aero socks that's fine. If you wear low cut cotton ones that's fine. If you want sockless that's fine. FFS it's just a Fondo
Just a thank you lads. I really enjoy everything you do and look forward you your uploads. Please keep the classy, informative content rolling for us all. Great job 👏🏻 decent, quality lads, Chatting like we all do
So great to see Jessie running rim brakes. They will come back. Disc is not necessary even with carbon clincher/latex if using decent quality rims. The wide tire movement is to give a bigger contact patch so disc doesn't immediately lock up a wheel when used by inexperienced covid craze roadies. I have run Aeolus D3 clinchers daily since 2015 with vittoria latex in a very mountainous region at 200 miles a week. Not a single problem. Rim frames are available if you look to smaller//euro brands. Basso Diamante comes to mind.
Aussie in Dubai. I raced in the Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Grand Fondo you mentioned. It was in November last year (155km and 331m elevation) Essentially anyone can enter. Like you discussed. Pros etc excluded from prize money. The pace is mental. Be prepared if you do decide to enter it. The teams will also have their own support outside of the 4 or 5 staged feed zones. Last years Fondo was hot. Even living here and enduring the heat year in year out I found the ride hot. I started with 4L of fluids. But that ran out by the 2nd last feed stop and I had to use the feed stop which obviously then your loosing spots as most will blow right through them to break the bunches. This race starts with a “neutral zone” don’t think of it in a TDF sense where everyone is taking it easy. The race started from the moment you crossed the start line. I was nearly involved in 2 crashes just in the neutral zone alone and people pushing themselves of you to work themselves into a better spot. It’s definitely a unique experience to say the least. If you do decide to come over and do it. I’ll help ya out on the ground here.
I had a goal in 2018 to get my overall health in a better place. Started with running, ran 5-6 days a week starting small and have run a bunch of half marathon and a few nearly marathon distance runs but have never entered a competition. In 2021, I bought a road bike to mix in as cross-training and took the same overall approach to my training. Last summer, I road a bunch of 100km, 100mi plus distance rides and this upcoming summer looking to find something a bit more gnarly. From a goal stand point, it worked - I'm fitter now at 42 than I was at 20. In terms of motivation, I look at it as investing into myself for long term health, fitness & mental health.
Here in WA, for 200km event, we have a gear drop and valet services. Gear drop is to drop off any additional pieces of clothing or equipment at Pit Stop say #1 Then valet is for participants to have their own supplies transported to Pit Stop say #3 for collection. This can be used to replenish any personal requirements; i.e. additional spare parts, mobile phone battery pack, drinks/nutrition, sunscreen or other personal items. Sounds good right ? 🤓
I rode the snowy and would love to have ridden with you but knew you would been hitting it hard at the front and not surprised you didn’t stop. But, it’s your ride, so it’s always up to you to enjoy - whatever way that is
Another great one gents, loving the #velochat. I had a suggestion/ask... wonder if you could do a section on head units/Data screens on bike computers. You're both discerning cycling chaps, so it would be good to get some insight into what data you like to look at on your rides... are you just looking at power, do you a like some navigation on there, do you bother with HR zones etc? Would be good to get the consensus on what is or isn't useful for training versus a podcast ride.
I'm mostly riding now with my kids who are still quite young but they love it, I get to spend time with them and I feel like I'm helping them develop a life long exercise habit.
Spot on Chris with it’s a sport for me not a hobby! Also what about spares in your back pockets with food, gels etc, so no saddle bag but still have it all covered with a mechanical and not stopping 👍
Someone needs to write an official rule book for the do's and don't of cycling. Sock height, when to change, group ride etiquette, fondo etiquette, sunglasses over or under helmet straps, etc😂 I mean id buy it🤷♂️
Great show - watching you guys discuss different topics in cycling motivates me to get out and ride and more importantly push myself to be a better rider. I look forward to this show every week - keep it up.
This is a great show and because it’s talk show format and you have a unique audience. You should market yourself for ad reads during the show like a podcast
Thanks for the comment Ian. Hopefully we can attract the right sponsors, in the mean time, do us a massive favour and share the show with your mates. Thanks
I was signed up for Snowy, but sadly I couldn't make it due to a conflict. Next year for sure! You guys kicked ass! One and two! I want to see your Snowy video be about you two battling. I want to know how/when Jesse got you! Gran Fondo rules-wise. No rules. There are going to be a certain percentage of folks who are there to race. Wear the aero socks, wear the full aero kit, get hand-ups, chuck your gear in the bushes, do whatever you want, I don't give a shit. As far as motivation, I am like Jesse. I need to have an event on the calendar that gets me going. However, if I don't have an event on the immediate horizon, I will still load up the week with tons of Z2. Not sure what would happen with no events to prep for, but I think like you guys, I get a bit loco if I don't get some exercise in. Love the show, favorite way to spend a UA-cam hour.
Your topics are so on point! I don't ride socially too much ap you guys are my outlet for cycling discussion...less cycling chat with the Mrs the better 😁
Feed zone wise I think if you feel you have enough fluid and nutrition and don’t need to stop it’s fine. At a fondo most of the feed stops are chat places anyway
Gran Fondo's have numerous purposes. One as a way of qualifying for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships and a full on race for the respective age group title. Two as a means for people to participate in a friendly non race type of environment either by themselves or with a group of friends in order to achieve personal fitness goals and have fun. Those who want to race do so by whatever means they choose to get the top 25% result in order to qualify for the Worlds. Aero wheels, skin suits, socks and no stopping at any water points, standard race practice. The remainder riding do so to achieve personal fitness goals and enjoy the participation side of the Gran Fondo. Regardless of how you ride and purely looking at the numbers of participants it has to be agreed that the GF format is popular. The recent Tour of Brisbane GF also had huge numbers of participants. Lets see you guys at the Spinneys Dubai 92km Cycle Challenge 2024 and see how you stack up against those going for the big money on a flat and fast circuit :)
Great podcast this week I also did snowys and got the gear wrong.. couldn’t feel my hands for the first 80 kms Pig rooting.. love to see the Beloka footage as I suspect everyone was jumping on board 🐷 Any comments on Jesse sitting on the police motor bike on the Perisher descent? Well done both on great results 👏🏻
Best episode yet. My take on Dos for a Fondo: the overarching principle could be: if everyone did that (insert question), what would happen? So people can ride through food stops (safely), but imagine if everyone had someone handing out food & water (it would be a shit show). Imagine if no one wore race numbers… and on it goes. Waiting for a mate? Yes. If they catch up at the stop, they are not far behind. If they are really slower, they may be accidentally dropped not long after (I’ve been in both positions - it’s not a personal insult). My Wife wears the Women’s Canyon team jersey - she loves it.
This show is great, always entertaining and honest. If people want to wear pro kit and support rider teams or just think it looks good go for it . You see club footy players wearing AFL,NRL kit. You see car racing fans wearing Red bull kit. Who cares show your support
Another great episode guys. I do wonder though after all the aero chat ie numbers , saddle bags etc , It raises an interesting point, why do we not care about aero at something like a fondo, but are so concerned at club races i.e Hefron (When talking about Chris being concerned about getting dropped because of a different frame) When the fondo has a larger investment to attend, and we all ride a fondo as hard as we can? So I suppose my point is why is a club race more prestigious than fondos when we ride both just as hard? Food for thought? Hope I’m Making sense.
I get such a kick out of you two! Half of what you say leaves me indescribably nostalgic for my SoCal Cat 2 day, and the other half leaves me wondering "what the F?" 😁
I always ride through a rest stop as I carry all my own nutrition due to food allergies. I also recon 1 bathroom stop,usually petrol station or park so I don't have to line up. Rest stop bathroom lines are Looong
great show as usual. Did the Tour de Brisbane on weekend and the Gran Fondo discussion was on point. I didn't carry spares and same as Jesse mentioned, I had no contingency so no idea what I would have done :). Interestingly a guy said to me early on ride that the number plate was not meant for bike and he wasn't using it. One hour rule also feels about right and after a tough day out, not sure I feel like sitting around any longer anyway.
Regarding external support. My second fondo I was without extra support, I ran out of water, and when I reached the neutral support all they had was the *most concentrated* lemon sports drink I’ve ever tasted, to the point where I couldn’t get it down. Luckily I managed to beg a bottle from another rider several kms later, but I was absolutely dying, so I have no problem with external support.
I started riding to lose weight, terrified if I stop it will come back. Some mornings I struggle to get out of bed, but always enjoy when I get out. I social ride twice a week, the rest is solo. I might pig root if the going gets tough as well :)
Well I was up for this years Peaks challenge, and fully expected to do the majority of the ride on my own. Aimed for 12hours and was confident of my training to do it in that time. Up for it again next year, will be 74 and will follow the same training program. I look at this as my own personal challenge to say I have done it, plus I want that finishers jersey.
Definately agree on family/partner helping out being okay. like you said if they are out there all day and possibly shit weather it helps them feel involved and helps their time pass if their helping 😃
On the Pro Team kit... Not allowed. Might also add that we need to mind the rules of the velominati, I think a lot of people have forgotten or never even seen the rules.
The fondo rules depends on the nature of the fondo. If it’s a bucket list ride, like Tour of Flanders, ride together with mates and enjoy the experience. If it’s a smash fest like Ride London, go as fast as possible.
Wow 2 Chris Miller videos in the same week! Awesome! Keep them coming. Loved when you had Vegan on and performance, not that I think you need guest. You and Jesse do a great job with plenty of content. Thanks
in the UK if you are getting signed off at a rest stop it would more likely be a reliability ride rather than a GF/Sportive. reliability rides are an entirely different kettle of fish... (don't know if they even exist in Australia)
me and my friends have found within our riding circles that the strongest is often the people who have had the most emotional trauma in the past. granted we're mostly gravel mtb rather then road but is there any merit to that in other circles?
No saddlebag. I carry my spare tubes, Co2, levers, and co2 nozzles in my rear pocket. Never run a saddlebag. Never. In my other two jersey pockets, I carry extra water bottles .. sometimes.
The nero show is my favorite thing to watch right now on youtube. Keep it up guys
Same!
Glad you enjoy it!
Know No what would make it better? 😎👈Me
would love to see dylan johnson as a guest
Vouch
Yesss
Or the most important person in our lifetime , which created the structured training cyclists use today
Or BH Dylan....
Yess dj
I have to say (yet again)...
This is - IMHO - currently the best UA-cam channel / Podcast in road cycling. You two set the tone for the discussion / debate / conversation that I really want to hear. (also loving the collaboration with Tyler Pearce)
Thanks Phillip, hope to have VC back on soon enough.
According to a recent video by Dylan Johnson, who tested number plate in a wind tunnel, it represents a tremendous wattage loss if you put it on the front of the bike in the fully-visible/designated manner. There's still some loss wrapping it around the head tube, but it's fairly minimal.
@@christopherrahilly8425 The USWe hydration pack was a surprising gain to me. Those systems are great on long rides but I always assumed they were bad for aero. Now I want one. Haha
Haha. Read the comment in his voice. His Alter ego says it's all irrelevant trash
Ummm 🤔 for sure you would lose watts. Did we need a wind tunnel to tell us that?
@@HarryTzianakisTheGodOfSpeed Umm..no. The test was to determine the amount of watts lost. It was rather huge, unexpectedly so.
Coz 20w > 2w @@HarryTzianakisTheGodOfSpeed yeah
My favorite weekly show! I look forward to this broadcast more than you know.
Thanks Darren! Stoked you are enjoying it
Towards the painting budget. Loving the open chat format, keep it up. Love to hear episodes with other Aussies Laterne Rouge and Tristantakevideo.
Fondo kit littering:
At 3 peaks they have a station at the bottom of Falls Creek and evryone puts there jumpers, tshirts ect into it and its donated to people in need. Its the only part of the ride thats cold, normally. More Fondos need to do this.
I have a bunch of musician friends that always say things like "blah blah blah...cycling is your PASSION", and I constantly have to find a way to explain what it actually is. 95% of the time it's not about going out and enjoying the views, or being with people on a social ride. Most of the time, it's a chance to think. A time to work out frustrations, and generally as you two said a time to take "make me a better person". 100% of the time it is about giving me a sense of accomplishment for the day. It's really easy to to not get a sense of satisfaction from a job, so a bike ride is a way for me to feel like I did something "worthwhile" on any given day.
Great comment Andrew!
Would love to meet you guys down here in Dubai 🤞🏽
My wife wanted to put some faces to the podcast she is forced to listen to. Her thoughts; “he doesn’t run a saddle bag nor an iron. Those bums need to iron their shirts” 😂
I recently took a 5 day break with the family and this time decided to coincide it with some recovery and have a complete break off the bike -what a mistake! Spent 5 days regretting not taking a bike. Usually take a bike and get up super early get a ride done often before my family has even risen. Despite the lack of sleep my mood is so much better! Definitely an addiction but there are of course, far worse things to be addicted to...
I think waking up early, riding before everyone is really up and doing much helps a ton, the family doesn’t feel like their time with you is being cut in to and you get to do what you love
As for partners, I just did an 80km training ride, got home, unpacked my kit, washed my bike, dried, lubed etc. Had a shower, went upstairs for a coffee and my wife was still asleep. Now I’m enjoying my coffee watching this hot mess. No family time lost.
Love the pod guys. Keep it up. UA-cam guests have been great
Absolutely in love with this podcast. A highlight every week
Another good one. I've been binging on these since I discovered your podcast a couple of days ago.
Great chat, yep I ride to not feel sad, not be a crappy human in front of others and to get that sense/feeling of accomplishment at the start of the day ✌️
💯exactly what exercise wether it being riding or running does for me as well.
Love that!
Chris, I don't stop at rest stops during gran fondos... because YOU told me not to hahaha (don't recall which of your videos, but this was your tactical advice) As a result- I beat all my riding mates. I DID inform them before that I was not stopping. If the clock is running, then I'm riding.
Well, you hit on what is easily my biggest pet peeve with the recreational side of road cycling - wearing pro team kit.
I know this is an entirely different sort of thing, but NFL teams make around 4 billion per year from merchandise sales. And that is primarily composed of jerseys, caps, jackets, etc.
Yes, they are franchises and yes, there is this entire structure around them so that they can make money.
But sports apparel is one of the biggest industries there is...everywhere.
If someone wants to ride around, head-to-toe in team kit...they deserve credit, not blame. They are actually financially supporting (in some way) the sport many others like being elitist about.
I have never once saw someone walking down the street in a Tom Brady jersey and thought 'Is that Tom Brady? Are they trying to make everyone think they are Tom Brady? At 5 foot, 8?'
And if they want to wear the kit, ride the bike, don the helmet, glasses and shoes....think about how much money they had to spend to do that.
Let 'em do it. More power to them.
Team kits all day
I agree with you. I have no problem with people wearing team kits.
I've grown to love this pod. Really interesting topics. Keep it up!
Glad you enjoy it!
Loving the show . I quite happily sit watching you 2 talk for 50 minutes than watch a 10 minute video most youtubers on a bike .
Legend! Thanks man
The stuff about team kit . Here in the UK people do get alot of shit for wearing them .
I totally agree with the others… yea I love the breakdowns and the pro/race stuff of other channels but it doesn’t apply to me at the core. Let’s be honest, for the rest of us, we are talking more about these topics: kits, riding, food, mates, positions, etc. Absolutely brilliant… thanks for being like us! Love the ability to look at yourselves and laugh and tease. That’s what’s all about, right? Being on the bike! Can’t wait for these to upload. Motivation at its best.
So cool to real James, delighted you and your mates are enjoying the chat … and that we are doing it all a little tongue in cheek ☺️
Great podcast as usual well-done, my motivation comes from my heart surgeon, after a major heart attack about 18 months ago on the bike and post ride, my surgeon explained that if it wasn't for my fitness from cycling the end results would have been totally different and I wouldn't be here to write this comment. So for me that's Great motivation to keep riding/training. I generally now average 180-200 kms per week all outdoors. Next birthday I turn 70yo.👍.
Great story David! Thanks for the comment.
Nice one, really enjoying this chat hope you guys can keep it going.
That's the plan!
Favourite cycling podcast with the most relevant topics of conversations well done guys !
Thanks Alan!
Just did the Roubaix challenge (sportive really) - was a great experience and you had all types of riders, bikes and speeds going on over the cobbles and mix in the pro’s doing their recon rides. Took my time and had a great day out!
Congrats on another cracking episode... OK, some observations from RVV Cyclo (Tour of Flanders Grand Fondo) last weekend: Not only should number be displayed at front but you need to use cable ties to make it as clearly visible as possible (think flat and maximum drag!) because, as mentioned by Chris, software identifies you for photos. I got over 40 professional photos plus video footage of every major climb (Koppenberg, Kwaremont, Paterberg etc.) ... One of the clear don'ts was waiting for mates right at the top of climbs (it's not hard to ride an extra 50 or 100 meters along the road.) Also, when you get off to walk on a climb you really should stay as close to the right as possible, leaving room for the many who really want to make it to the top of the iconic climbs (I was only held up, and forced to walk, once on the ride.) ... Stopping at designated food stops just makes the ride more enjoyable (nice vibe, free quality food, sports drinks and even Red Bull so you can save carrying all those necessary carbs plus it effectively divides the ride into easily manageable sections.) ... Finally, in the filthiest of Belgian conditions with constant rain, wind and 4 degrees, I think that I may have nailed the kit selection with winter bib tights, long-sleeve Gabba, Rapha shake-dry, long Spatz overshoes, neoprene gloves, and Gore-Tex over shorts. ... Looking back, the tough conditions actually made the event way more memorable and possibly even more enjoyable :)
Man these are getting better and better, great job guys!
Pretty much every other sport you can wear a 'team kit' without any issue. But in cycling it seems it upsets many people which is a good reason to go out and buy one.
So happy to see this in my feed, thanks again for another great podcast - you guys definitely deserve more views.
Thanks Luke, all we can ask is you share it with your mates. Thanks.
For sure get the kit off asap after the race. Bring some light clothes you can rapidly change into. Especially if it's a cold ride.
From hearing you guys talk about Fondos in Australia. They are what fondos where in Europe 10 years ago. Now they basically are amateur road races, aero everything and ever more competitive each year.
Love the podcast, cheers from France
Thanks Hugo. Yeh I think you are right, in many ways it’s due to the death of actual proper road races, people are just desperate to have a competitive day out, and teh fondos have starting fitting that bill.
@@ChrisMillerCycling Yeah, because the actuall amateur road races are shit at marketing themself. They basically have not changed the past 20-30 years. Super burocratic and not going digital etc. I still prefer official races. But they have to step up their game soon or they will vanish. The only country doing it right in Europe is Belgium.
Shout-out from Brazil, this the Best bike talkshow right now, for sure! Love the dynamic, the honesty covering the topics, wait every week to watch while I train indoors!
Wow, thanks!
Loved this episode. It's like Chris Miller in the confession booth. All the sins of the past. Running an aero skin suite in a fondo for example 😂
The first step to rehabilitation is accepting ones prior mistakes 😂
The wonderful thing about Fondos are that all kinds of riders participate. Ultimately, the hardcore Racing Rules don't apply, except for the usual "be safe". Don't take it so seriously & just enjoy the Ride.
PS: if you want aero socks that's fine. If you wear low cut cotton ones that's fine. If you want sockless that's fine. FFS it's just a Fondo
I usually save the protein kit for when I’m working in my yard- like mowing the lawn, raking leaves, etc. I think it’s more suitable for yard work
Just a thank you lads. I really enjoy everything you do and look forward you your uploads. Please keep the classy, informative content rolling for us all. Great job 👏🏻 decent, quality lads, Chatting like we all do
Thanks, will do!
So great to see Jessie running rim brakes. They will come back. Disc is not necessary even with carbon clincher/latex if using decent quality rims. The wide tire movement is to give a bigger contact patch so disc doesn't immediately lock up a wheel when used by inexperienced covid craze roadies. I have run Aeolus D3 clinchers daily since 2015 with vittoria latex in a very mountainous region at 200 miles a week. Not a single problem. Rim frames are available if you look to smaller//euro brands. Basso Diamante comes to mind.
Sounds like you’re having an argument with yourself 😂
This podcast always accompany me on my morning coffee routine before riding, keep it up 👍🏼
Aussie in Dubai. I raced in the Abu Dhabi to Al Ain Grand Fondo you mentioned. It was in November last year (155km and 331m elevation)
Essentially anyone can enter. Like you discussed. Pros etc excluded from prize money.
The pace is mental. Be prepared if you do decide to enter it.
The teams will also have their own support outside of the 4 or 5 staged feed zones.
Last years Fondo was hot. Even living here and enduring the heat year in year out I found the ride hot. I started with 4L of fluids. But that ran out by the 2nd last feed stop and I had to use the feed stop which obviously then your loosing spots as most will blow right through them to break the bunches.
This race starts with a “neutral zone” don’t think of it in a TDF sense where everyone is taking it easy. The race started from the moment you crossed the start line. I was nearly involved in 2 crashes just in the neutral zone alone and people pushing themselves of you to work themselves into a better spot. It’s definitely a unique experience to say the least.
If you do decide to come over and do it. I’ll help ya out on the ground here.
Hey Darren, thanks for that update. Really interesting.
@@ChrisMillerCycling
No problem
Anything UAE related just hit me up.
Happy to pass on any info. Fantastic riding scene here.
I had a goal in 2018 to get my overall health in a better place. Started with running, ran 5-6 days a week starting small and have run a bunch of half marathon and a few nearly marathon distance runs but have never entered a competition. In 2021, I bought a road bike to mix in as cross-training and took the same overall approach to my training. Last summer, I road a bunch of 100km, 100mi plus distance rides and this upcoming summer looking to find something a bit more gnarly. From a goal stand point, it worked - I'm fitter now at 42 than I was at 20. In terms of motivation, I look at it as investing into myself for long term health, fitness & mental health.
Here in WA, for 200km event, we have a gear drop and valet services.
Gear drop is to drop off any additional pieces of clothing or equipment at Pit Stop say #1
Then valet is for participants
to have their own supplies transported to Pit Stop say #3 for collection. This can be used to replenish any personal requirements; i.e. additional spare parts, mobile phone battery pack, drinks/nutrition, sunscreen or other personal items. Sounds good right ? 🤓
I rode the snowy and would love to have ridden with you but knew you would been hitting it hard at the front and not surprised you didn’t stop. But, it’s your ride, so it’s always up to you to enjoy - whatever way that is
Right on!
Another great one gents, loving the #velochat. I had a suggestion/ask... wonder if you could do a section on head units/Data screens on bike computers. You're both discerning cycling chaps, so it would be good to get some insight into what data you like to look at on your rides... are you just looking at power, do you a like some navigation on there, do you bother with HR zones etc? Would be good to get the consensus on what is or isn't useful for training versus a podcast ride.
You guy’s totally have your addition under control.
I'm mostly riding now with my kids who are still quite young but they love it, I get to spend time with them and I feel like I'm helping them develop a life long exercise habit.
Spot on Chris with it’s a sport for me not a hobby! Also what about spares in your back pockets with food, gels etc, so no saddle bag but still have it all covered with a mechanical and not stopping 👍
Someone needs to write an official rule book for the do's and don't of cycling. Sock height, when to change, group ride etiquette, fondo etiquette, sunglasses over or under helmet straps, etc😂 I mean id buy it🤷♂️
According to the majority of road users, Cyclists are breaking the rules just by being on the road. We don't need silly rules, only sensible ones
It's called The Rules, everyone is familiar with no.9 at least
Great show - watching you guys discuss different topics in cycling motivates me to get out and ride and more importantly push myself to be a better rider. I look forward to this show every week - keep it up.
Our pleasure!
This is a great show and because it’s talk show format and you have a unique audience. You should market yourself for ad reads during the show like a podcast
Thanks for the comment Ian. Hopefully we can attract the right sponsors, in the mean time, do us a massive favour and share the show with your mates. Thanks
Yep, 100%, my riding helps keep my second self occupied. It’s maybe not the purpose, but it’s an important outcome.
I was signed up for Snowy, but sadly I couldn't make it due to a conflict. Next year for sure! You guys kicked ass! One and two! I want to see your Snowy video be about you two battling. I want to know how/when Jesse got you!
Gran Fondo rules-wise. No rules. There are going to be a certain percentage of folks who are there to race. Wear the aero socks, wear the full aero kit, get hand-ups, chuck your gear in the bushes, do whatever you want, I don't give a shit.
As far as motivation, I am like Jesse. I need to have an event on the calendar that gets me going. However, if I don't have an event on the immediate horizon, I will still load up the week with tons of Z2. Not sure what would happen with no events to prep for, but I think like you guys, I get a bit loco if I don't get some exercise in.
Love the show, favorite way to spend a UA-cam hour.
best show on youtube
Great work lads as usual. Smashed the Snowy's ride - well done. Love these chats. See you in CP (as you whoosh past)
Legend!
Your topics are so on point! I don't ride socially too much ap you guys are my outlet for cycling discussion...less cycling chat with the Mrs the better 😁
Glad to hear it!
Come to taiwan kom challenge 2023 this October. Prize money 💵 is big too !
Motivation? - who honestly feels motivated at 5am? You know the old saying: It's not motivation it's discipline!
Feed zone wise I think if you feel you have enough fluid and nutrition and don’t need to stop it’s fine. At a fondo most of the feed stops are chat places anyway
Aero socks are fine. They seem less wankerish to me than riding on the top tube.
Fact!
Ha ha ha ha 😂🤣😆 What about if their sitting on the top tube with the wanker socks?
Riding on the toptube in a Fondo. Why risk the danger to less experienced Riders? You only do that if you're a paid professional.
Yeh just sit on the saddle FFS
Gran Fondo's have numerous purposes. One as a way of qualifying for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships and a full on race for the respective age group title. Two as a means for people to participate in a friendly non race type of environment either by themselves or with a group of friends in order to achieve personal fitness goals and have fun. Those who want to race do so by whatever means they choose to get the top 25% result in order to qualify for the Worlds. Aero wheels, skin suits, socks and no stopping at any water points, standard race practice. The remainder riding do so to achieve personal fitness goals and enjoy the participation side of the Gran Fondo. Regardless of how you ride and purely looking at the numbers of participants it has to be agreed that the GF format is popular. The recent Tour of Brisbane GF also had huge numbers of participants. Lets see you guys at the Spinneys Dubai 92km Cycle Challenge 2024 and see how you stack up against those going for the big money on a flat and fast circuit :)
Great podcast this week
I also did snowys and got the gear wrong.. couldn’t feel my hands for the first 80 kms
Pig rooting.. love to see the Beloka footage as I suspect everyone was jumping on board 🐷
Any comments on Jesse sitting on the police motor bike on the Perisher descent?
Well done both on great results 👏🏻
#coylegate is currently with the UCI … I don’t want to hinder my legal avenues with any comment here 😉
If you ever come to the USA to do a fondo, "Six Gap" in Georgia is incredible.
What's the problem with aerosocks?
Best episode yet. My take on Dos for a Fondo: the overarching principle could be: if everyone did that (insert question), what would happen? So people can ride through food stops (safely), but imagine if everyone had someone handing out food & water (it would be a shit show). Imagine if no one wore race numbers… and on it goes.
Waiting for a mate? Yes. If they catch up at the stop, they are not far behind. If they are really slower, they may be accidentally dropped not long after (I’ve been in both positions - it’s not a personal insult). My Wife wears the Women’s Canyon team jersey - she loves it.
This show is great, always entertaining and honest.
If people want to wear pro kit and support rider teams or just think it looks good go for it . You see club footy players wearing AFL,NRL kit. You see car racing fans wearing Red bull kit. Who cares show your support
Where can I get one of them Tour de Weed jerseys in the back?
Another great episode guys.
I do wonder though after all the aero chat ie numbers , saddle bags etc ,
It raises an interesting point, why do we not care about aero at something like a fondo, but are so concerned at club races i.e Hefron (When talking about Chris being concerned about getting dropped because of a different frame)
When the fondo has a larger investment to attend, and we all ride a fondo as hard as we can?
So I suppose my point is why is a club race more prestigious than fondos when we ride both just as hard?
Food for thought?
Hope I’m Making sense.
I get such a kick out of you two! Half of what you say leaves me indescribably nostalgic for my SoCal Cat 2 day, and the other half leaves me wondering "what the F?" 😁
HAHA!!! Sounds like we achieved our goal then 😁
How many water bottles for the fondo? Is 1 big 22-24oz bottle ok? (So then can use a keg instead of saddle bag, so that rear gopro can be used.)
I always ride through a rest stop as I carry all my own nutrition due to food allergies. I also recon 1 bathroom stop,usually petrol station or park so I don't have to line up. Rest stop bathroom lines are Looong
Like so many have said - loving it guys!! Keep ‘em coming. 👊
Le Col aero socks are very comfy, wear it just because I like them. . But some condos you can be on your own for miles .
great show as usual. Did the Tour de Brisbane on weekend and the Gran Fondo discussion was on point. I didn't carry spares and same as Jesse mentioned, I had no contingency so no idea what I would have done :). Interestingly a guy said to me early on ride that the number plate was not meant for bike and he wasn't using it. One hour rule also feels about right and after a tough day out, not sure I feel like sitting around any longer anyway.
Regarding external support. My second fondo I was without extra support, I ran out of water, and when I reached the neutral support all they had was the *most concentrated* lemon sports drink I’ve ever tasted, to the point where I couldn’t get it down. Luckily I managed to beg a bottle from another rider several kms later, but I was absolutely dying, so I have no problem with external support.
I started riding to lose weight, terrified if I stop it will come back. Some mornings I struggle to get out of bed, but always enjoy when I get out. I social ride twice a week, the rest is solo. I might pig root if the going gets tough as well :)
I would love to see Backward Hat Dylan on the show!
Another great ep! Love the content
Much appreciated!
Chris, let me know when you find the Tudor kit.
Well I was up for this years Peaks challenge, and fully expected to do the majority of the ride on my own. Aimed for 12hours and was confident of my training to do it in that time. Up for it again next year, will be 74 and will follow the same training program. I look at this as my own personal challenge to say I have done it, plus I want that finishers jersey.
Nice work David
2 eps in a week yesssss
Chris, what Bib tights did you run?
Definately agree on family/partner helping out being okay. like you said if they are out there all day and possibly shit weather it helps them feel involved and helps their time pass if their helping 😃
Great podcast! Oh, and pros most certainly pig root. I’ve seen it several times in the few week long stage races this year.
Well said!
On the Pro Team kit... Not allowed. Might also add that we need to mind the rules of the velominati, I think a lot of people have forgotten or never even seen the rules.
The fondo rules depends on the nature of the fondo. If it’s a bucket list ride, like Tour of Flanders, ride together with mates and enjoy the experience. If it’s a smash fest like Ride London, go as fast as possible.
100% my point mate. No GF is created equal these days.
Wow 2 Chris Miller videos in the same week! Awesome! Keep them coming. Loved when you had Vegan on and performance, not that I think you need guest. You and Jesse do a great job with plenty of content. Thanks
Awesome! Thank you!
You guys should really do a hammer style Gran Fondo. It's incredibly enjoyable. The time trial sections are the way to go.
So that's the thing VC discussed the other week right? Might try to get to one in the USA
@@ChrisMillerCycling yes and aero socks are 100% accepted.
Love the show. Great job, guys.
pig root = possible saddle height too high? can see slight wobble of hips side to side instead of smooth transfer of power ???🤩
Like what VC said if there is a start/finish line. It's a race
HAHA!!! Love it
in the UK if you are getting signed off at a rest stop it would more likely be a reliability ride rather than a GF/Sportive. reliability rides are an entirely different kettle of fish... (don't know if they even exist in Australia)
Chris got red right handed PIG-ROOTING - 🤣🤣 - you guys are hilarious - 🤣🤣
Van aert pig roots. See the very hard climbs on the classiscs
First and last time I’ll be compared to WVA 😂
me and my friends have found within our riding circles that the strongest is often the people who have had the most emotional trauma in the past. granted we're mostly gravel mtb rather then road but is there any merit to that in other circles?
Epic chat
It did surprise me that the hand made sign was better than the torn drywall. Big Fan of the channel great content
HAHA!!
Kit dump 3Peaks after getting off the first descent. Don’t mind if I do n
Another great episode!
Thanks Pawel
No saddlebag. I carry my spare tubes, Co2, levers, and co2 nozzles in my rear pocket.
Never run a saddlebag. Never.
In my other two jersey pockets, I carry extra water bottles .. sometimes.
Awesome content 😁👏🏼
Put spare tubes in back pocket?
You must be old school. These guys hardly carry tubes with them anymore. They're all tubeless.