Monday, December 20, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Shop to ride this XMAS
Its unheard of that we advocate anything but riding your bike. However it is the festive (shopping) season so you need to get with it. But don't get sucked into those overcrowded malls and dodgy discount stores. Rather go online and get it done quick and easy so that you can get out and ride your bike while the rest of the plebs stand in cues.
As far as mountain biking goes we have got you covered with a shopping list to make you smile
Mountain bike books on trails, skills, training and maintenance
MTB Sunglasses from Oakley and Adidas
Garmin GPS for your bike
Olympus Tough Camera to take on rides
Ipod Nano for tunes
Some rocking tunes
Have a great festive season and remember if you eat and drink lots its ok, just means that you need to ride more.
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Wednesday, December 08, 2010
Ride your bike and loose the behind
Just five minutes of riding a bicycle each day can help a younger woman keep the pounds off, the team at the Harvard School of Public Health and Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston reported.
"Small daily increments in bicycling helped women control their weight. But the more time women spent bicycling, the better," said Harvard's Rania Mekary, who worked on the study.
Mekary's team studied 18,414 healthy women who had not yet gone through menopause taking part in the Brigham and Women's Hospital-based Nurses' Health Study, an ongoing study of women's health over time.
On average, the nurses gained about 20 pounds (9.3 kilograms) over the 16-year period.
The women who did not bicycle in 1989 who had started by 2005 were a quarter less likely to have gained weight, even if they rode for just five minutes a day, the researchers said.
"Unlike discretionary gym time, bicycling could replace time spent in a car for necessary travel of some distance to work, shops or school as activities of daily living," the researchers wrote.
"Bicycling could then be an unconscious form of exercise because the trip's destination, and not the exercise, could be the goal." - Reuters
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"Small daily increments in bicycling helped women control their weight. But the more time women spent bicycling, the better," said Harvard's Rania Mekary, who worked on the study.
Mekary's team studied 18,414 healthy women who had not yet gone through menopause taking part in the Brigham and Women's Hospital-based Nurses' Health Study, an ongoing study of women's health over time.
On average, the nurses gained about 20 pounds (9.3 kilograms) over the 16-year period.
The women who did not bicycle in 1989 who had started by 2005 were a quarter less likely to have gained weight, even if they rode for just five minutes a day, the researchers said.
"Unlike discretionary gym time, bicycling could replace time spent in a car for necessary travel of some distance to work, shops or school as activities of daily living," the researchers wrote.
"Bicycling could then be an unconscious form of exercise because the trip's destination, and not the exercise, could be the goal." - Reuters
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Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Track your rides online for free
I recently came across this really cool and free online GPS tracking software called Endomondo. What is great about this system is that all you need is to register on the site to download the app to your GPS mobile device and off you go, its really as easy as that.
Endomondo is a sports community based on free real-time GPS tracking of running, cycling, etc. It has live tracking so your loved ones and friends can track your progress in events or when you are out on that monster ride in the middle of nowhere.
It works with all the major phone brands and operating systems as well as Garmin and Polar wear link. You can share your rides and routes with others through facebook, twitter etc and build your own ride network and set up your privacy settings. If you are using it or want to share routes then drop us a line at our Facebook page
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Top 10 mistakes of self coached athletes
Joe Friel is a guru when it comes to endurance training and has written bestseller books like "The mountain bikers training bible" on mountain bike training. Here are his top 10 mistakes made by self coached athletes
#10 Too much emphasis on miles/kilometers. The key to race success is appropriate intensity
#9 Too much emphasis on heart rate. Your engine is muscle.
#8 Set goals much too high to motivate greatness. Does opposite. Goals must be just out of reach.
#7 Haphazard training. High goals require a purpose for every workout.
#6 Inconsistent training. High goals? Don't miss workouts. Ever.
#5 Too little rest, not enough race intensity before race. Rehearse race every 72hrs for 1-3 wks prior.
#4 Workouts too intense. Increasingly train at intensity you intend to race in last 12 weeks.
#3 Base—start Build period too early. Develop endurance, force & skills before race intensity.
#2 Too many hard days. Not enough easy days. To go truly hard you must be ready.
#1 Poor ability to pace properly. Learn to negative split workouts, intervals & races.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Suspension makes all the difference
I was reminded again today just how much of a difference suspension has made to mountain biking. At a time when rigid single speeds and hardtail 29ers are in fashion, don't be fooled into thinking that suspension is just another gimmick.
On my morning ride I locked our my front fork and forgot to unlock before doing one of my favorite singletrack sections. Its a route that I ride almost everyday and it took just one little stone to send me off coarse and nearly miss out a whole section of track. I couldn't workout what had happened till I realised that my fork was still locked out.
The suspension takes care of a lot of small bumps that you would never even know about unless of course you did't have any suspension. Another dead giveaway is when you have a rider on a hardtail trying to follow the same line as someone on a full suspension on a technical downhill. Even with exceptional skills its unlikely that the hardtail will be able to follow right behind the full suspension.
So if you don't have suspension, then think about getting it. If you do have it, make sure that it is on firstly and tuned properly and working the way it should.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Where was my bike made?
Some bike companies have a few secrets. And one of those secrets is where your bike is made or who actually made it. The bike companies like it that way because many of them rely upon the same factories to build their bikes!
Some bike companies have a few secrets. And one of those secrets is where your bike is made or who actually made it. The bike companies like it that way because many of them rely upon the same factories to build their bikes!
The big picture is pretty clear: around 95% of the bikes sold in the
Generally speaking, low to mid level bikes are made in
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
MTB riding is the best in SA
South Africa must have the best mountain bike riding in the world. Why does nobody know about it you may ask? Well that's probably because the majority of it is undiscovered.
Every new mtb trail that opens and every new mtb race that hits the already bulging calendar is exposing the vast selection of riding that we have metre by metre.
As more people become aware of the excitement of mountain biking and more property owners realize the eco tourism potential of trails we get more and more places to ride. So make it you mission to discover new places to ride and take someone along with you and share the joy.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
Thursday, November 04, 2010
An Epic race love it or hate it
The Absa Cape Epic - 800km long and 15000m of vertical ascent in 8 days. Love it or hate it, its the ultimate challenge. Believe it or not there are races longer and harder but there is only one Epic.
If you don't think you can do it, then you are not alone because for the majority of first timers it seems like an insurmountable challenge. But some how you manage to do it, pedal stroke by pedal stroke, kilometre by kilometre, water point by water point, day by day, eventually finish PA becomes a booming voice and sea of smiling faces as you cross the line and wonder how you got there.
You may hate the entrance price but you will love the vibe, you may hate Dr Evil but you will love the route, your family may hate you for all the training, but they will love you for finishing. No matter how you feel you can't miss it or deny it.
Last week they announced the 2011 route and so the challenge has been set, its up to you to make it happen.
Check out our Epic resources if you need inspiration or info.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
If you don't think you can do it, then you are not alone because for the majority of first timers it seems like an insurmountable challenge. But some how you manage to do it, pedal stroke by pedal stroke, kilometre by kilometre, water point by water point, day by day, eventually finish PA becomes a booming voice and sea of smiling faces as you cross the line and wonder how you got there.
You may hate the entrance price but you will love the vibe, you may hate Dr Evil but you will love the route, your family may hate you for all the training, but they will love you for finishing. No matter how you feel you can't miss it or deny it.
Last week they announced the 2011 route and so the challenge has been set, its up to you to make it happen.
Check out our Epic resources if you need inspiration or info.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Old School MTB
Here is a blast from the past, if you are into retro bikes then this is for you.
The Old World MTB Championships is an annual event organised by and for enthusiasts of pre-1996 mountain bikes. This year's event was held on North Wales and provided great riding challenges and crazy games to decide the prize winners and overall champion, all in the beautiful surroundings of Snowdonia. The first event was held in 2009 in Holland. Check out their website at www.owmtbc.org
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
The Old World MTB Championships is an annual event organised by and for enthusiasts of pre-1996 mountain bikes. This year's event was held on North Wales and provided great riding challenges and crazy games to decide the prize winners and overall champion, all in the beautiful surroundings of Snowdonia. The first event was held in 2009 in Holland. Check out their website at www.owmtbc.org
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
Monday, October 25, 2010
BATSEAL back again with I am a BAT man - revisited video
Well here is the follow up movie to the I am a BAT man video from BATSEAL Tubeless Tyre Sealant. Its got a different ending and a few different shots.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Tubeless sealant goes skinny
Tubeless tyre sealant is not just for MTB tyres and tubes you know. It also works very well in those skinny 700C road tubes. We have used it very successfully in our road wheels.
So if you have a road bike that you use for secret training then squeeze some sealant in through the valve using a syringe and plastic pipe.
You will be able to stop those pesky little wimp thorns that normally flatten your skinny wheel faster than you can say eish! www.batseal.co.za
So if you have a road bike that you use for secret training then squeeze some sealant in through the valve using a syringe and plastic pipe.
You will be able to stop those pesky little wimp thorns that normally flatten your skinny wheel faster than you can say eish! www.batseal.co.za
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Puncture protection - get it right
Punctures and flats have been a part of mountain biking and cycling from the very beginning. Fixing flat tyres and punctures is not difficult but can be an irritation and a waste of valuable riding time and worst case can end your ride in a long walk home.
So prevention is generally better than cure, all you need to do is avoid sticks, stones thorns and sharp rocks. Thats ok if you are on the road, but what about a mountain bike?
You can choose from many options including tubeless tyre sealant, tubes with sealant, tyre liners and thorn resistant tubes. Its a balance between cost, weight and puncture resistance, you need to make a choice and choose the best puncture prevention option for your area, riding style and conditions.
Make sure you are prepared because last thing you need is to be caught out like the poor dude in the BATSEAL - I am A BAT man video
Sunday, October 10, 2010
I am a BAT man campaign launches
BATSEAL tubeless tyre sealant released their new movie to promote the launch of the new BATSEAL 500ml bottle. Its a fun movie showing how BATSEAL is developed in South Africa to cope with our tough conditions out on the trail.
Join the movement at Facebook
Join the movement at Facebook
Wednesday, October 06, 2010
New is not always better
The mountain bike innovation curve can't be far off the digital innovation curve. Mountain bikers are the gadget junkies of the fitness world. Every year radical new bike stuff hits the market forcing us to upgrade to get the better, lighter, faster, stronger component.
But beware the bike hype, sift out the "new is just new" from the "new is actually better". If you can't understand or workout the benefit, then is it really a benefit for you? Also a benefit for one is not always a benefit for all, especially when it comes to pro riders.
If in doubt wait, if it is still there tomorrow then think about it. In the meantime take pride in riding your clunker and beating guys with lighter better bikes.
But beware the bike hype, sift out the "new is just new" from the "new is actually better". If you can't understand or workout the benefit, then is it really a benefit for you? Also a benefit for one is not always a benefit for all, especially when it comes to pro riders.
If in doubt wait, if it is still there tomorrow then think about it. In the meantime take pride in riding your clunker and beating guys with lighter better bikes.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
To club or not to club
MTB Clubs are popular but not for everyone. Ask a couple of mountain bikers and you will find very divergent views on MTB clubs.
All MTB clubs are not made equal, you need to check them out to be sure that they will offer you what you want. Some riders are looking for ride buddies, others are looking for any old club where they can get their racing licenses and there are those looking for a club that is actually doing something useful with all the subs. Bigger is not always better so be sure to join on some of the club rides first to see if you fit in with the crowd.
If you are a trail riding MTB type then we can definitely recommend AMARIDER. This is not a formal club as such but rather a mountain bike advocacy group (African Mountain Bike Association) who offer some club benefits like license registration, rides and trail building days. There are various levels of membership and you can be guaranteed that your cash will be contributing to building and maintaining more mountain bike trails.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
You ride MTB because ....
We all got into this MTB thing somehow, and I'm sure there are some really interesting stories to tell. The legend goes that some guys in California literally started bombing down hill sides on modified bomber bikes in the late '70s. But that's up for debate as the Europeans will tell you.
Here in SA you will find some of the first guys who took up the challenge in the late ,80s and '90s, with some war stories of their own. They will tell about how they rode rigid bikes and debated the pros and cons of front suspension. Those were the days before tubeless, disc brakes and lockout.
What we ride continues to change, but why we ride? Well that hasn't changed much, its just a bunch of friends out having fun isn't it?
So what was it that got you to ride? Tell us and your friends at our Facebook poll and leave a comment if you want to explain.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
World MTB Champs - Burry and Greg Bronze it!
South African mountain bikers were flying the flag high at Mont-Sainte-Anne in Canada this weekend. There was a pretty solid group of contenders with juniors, women and the elite men. The two biggest names Burry and Greg did themselves proud with both of them getting onto the podium.
Burry Stander showed again that he has what it takes to beat the best in the world. This year he set himself two ambitious goals. On his blog he writes "i wanted to win a medal at both the marathon world championships and the xco world champs a month later." Thats exactly what he did when he took third place on Sunday after getting a bronze medal a month earlier at the marathon world champs.
Riding his Specialized 29er Burry blogged "for bike setup this week i went for a single ring in the front.a 34tooth rotor ring mounted to a specialized carbon road spider did the job perfectly.i was again aboard my 2010 stumpjumper 29er.i ran a new prototype mud tire on the front dubbed "winston" by the team.on the rear i ha my fast rolling renegade setup.sram hooked us up with some new xx world cup edition black box brake last week which rounds of the package superbly.the bike weighed in at 8.2kg and handled the rough and technical track like a dream."
Greg Minnaar summed up his 3rd place performance on Sunday with this tweet "Podium champagne smells good on ur cloths when you win. But when the winner's champagne gets on ur cloths, it really doesn't smell that good".
Follow these guys at www.burrystander.co.za and www.gmfanclub.com. Also go and support them at the World Cup in Pietermaritzburg next year April.
Burry Stander showed again that he has what it takes to beat the best in the world. This year he set himself two ambitious goals. On his blog he writes "i wanted to win a medal at both the marathon world championships and the xco world champs a month later." Thats exactly what he did when he took third place on Sunday after getting a bronze medal a month earlier at the marathon world champs.
Riding his Specialized 29er Burry blogged "for bike setup this week i went for a single ring in the front.a 34tooth rotor ring mounted to a specialized carbon road spider did the job perfectly.i was again aboard my 2010 stumpjumper 29er.i ran a new prototype mud tire on the front dubbed "winston" by the team.on the rear i ha my fast rolling renegade setup.sram hooked us up with some new xx world cup edition black box brake last week which rounds of the package superbly.the bike weighed in at 8.2kg and handled the rough and technical track like a dream."
Greg Minnaar summed up his 3rd place performance on Sunday with this tweet "Podium champagne smells good on ur cloths when you win. But when the winner's champagne gets on ur cloths, it really doesn't smell that good".
Follow these guys at www.burrystander.co.za and www.gmfanclub.com. Also go and support them at the World Cup in Pietermaritzburg next year April.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
Friday, September 03, 2010
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Ride before you buy
Mountain bikes can offer a confusing selection and combination of options, so how do you know what to buy? Well that's why Bicycling Magazine introduced ride before you buy events where you can test ride bikes before you lay down your hard earned cash.
There are so many options of bikes with different geometries and fitted with all sorts of combinations of equipment. The only way to really know if this bike is for you, is to take it on a decent test ride, more than just a cruise around the parking lot. The good bike shops should also be able to offer you a test bike to try out for a day or two, ask them about this.
Bike demo days may be new to South Africa but have always been a big favorite at Eurobike and Interbike shows. Average guy was at Eurobike demo day and rode the new Giant Anthem, Lapiere Spicy and carbon Specialized Epic, check out his views on these bikes and SRAM XX.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
There are so many options of bikes with different geometries and fitted with all sorts of combinations of equipment. The only way to really know if this bike is for you, is to take it on a decent test ride, more than just a cruise around the parking lot. The good bike shops should also be able to offer you a test bike to try out for a day or two, ask them about this.
Bike demo days may be new to South Africa but have always been a big favorite at Eurobike and Interbike shows. Average guy was at Eurobike demo day and rode the new Giant Anthem, Lapiere Spicy and carbon Specialized Epic, check out his views on these bikes and SRAM XX.
Share your views by commenting at out blog or leaving a comment on MTBOnline Facebook.
Eurobike Demo Day
The show starts tomorrow and I was at the Eurobike demo day today. The weather ruined it a bit so I only got to ride 3 bikes. Unfortunately no 29ers. Ques were too long and 29ers were by far the most popular choice.
I rode a Giant Anthem. I have to admit that I was very impressed by the bike. It feels fast!! It was very solid. It has a tapered head tube and a thru axle. Felt light. Also was running XT dyna-sys 10 speed. Now worries there. Worked very well.
I hate to admit it, but I liked the bike!!
I then rode the Lapierre Spicy 160mm travel that rides like a 5 inch bike. The course was quite technical and very muddy but the bike cruised. Not my choice of every day bike but definitely one for Christie to consider at Megavelanche. It clmbed surprisingly well. I rode it with a standard triple and not the double and bash.
Then for the dud of the day. The top of the line new carbon Specialized epic. Brain front and back. SRAM XX double 10 speed. My first shift on the double front got the chain jammed. I had to stop to fix it and adjust the shifter. Then it was ok, but not great. The course had a serious climb and once again I was left questioning whether I can ride a double. I made it to the top but it worked my legs.
The brain is bad again. Very notchy front and back. And the tyres on the spaz nearly killed me!!!
All in all a good day. Pity about the weather. And just by the way. When it rains here it is worse than any wet course I have ridden in sa. In places the mud on the single track was axle deep!!
Did I mention how bad XX brakes are?....
I rode a Giant Anthem. I have to admit that I was very impressed by the bike. It feels fast!! It was very solid. It has a tapered head tube and a thru axle. Felt light. Also was running XT dyna-sys 10 speed. Now worries there. Worked very well.
I hate to admit it, but I liked the bike!!
I then rode the Lapierre Spicy 160mm travel that rides like a 5 inch bike. The course was quite technical and very muddy but the bike cruised. Not my choice of every day bike but definitely one for Christie to consider at Megavelanche. It clmbed surprisingly well. I rode it with a standard triple and not the double and bash.
Then for the dud of the day. The top of the line new carbon Specialized epic. Brain front and back. SRAM XX double 10 speed. My first shift on the double front got the chain jammed. I had to stop to fix it and adjust the shifter. Then it was ok, but not great. The course had a serious climb and once again I was left questioning whether I can ride a double. I made it to the top but it worked my legs.
The brain is bad again. Very notchy front and back. And the tyres on the spaz nearly killed me!!!
All in all a good day. Pity about the weather. And just by the way. When it rains here it is worse than any wet course I have ridden in sa. In places the mud on the single track was axle deep!!
Did I mention how bad XX brakes are?....
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Tyre rolling resistance - fat beats skinny
Rolling resistance is the force that you have to overcome to get your tyres to roll fast. Ideally you want as little resistance as possible, so you want tyres with very low rolling resistance.
But how do you know what affects rolling resistance and ultimately gives you the lowest rolling resistance possible? Well you need to consider the tyre compound used, spacing of the tread pattern, width of the tyre and the tyre pressure that you run. Tyre pressures are a closely guarded secret by pro MTB and downhill riders, they will hardly ever tell you what pressures they use. Team specialized makes an annual trip to South Africa every year and spends several weeks doing tyre testing with their pro riders on the trails in Stellenbosch.
Most of the views out there are just theories with little published information. However there is one very useful test on tyre rolling resistance published in a German MTB magazine and kindly translated by www.bicicletta.co.za. This useful test looks at wide vs narrow tyres, low vs high pressure and how tread patterns and surface conditions affect rolling resistance. Skinny and hard is for the roadies, if you are ride MTB off-road then you need fat and soft to go fast - don't believe me? - check out the full test
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Online bike shopping
Online bike shopping is a controversial topic in SA, its loved by the customer and feared by the retailer. The internet has changed the world forever and local bike industry could only hide away for so long until they had to sit up and take notice.
First it was Chain Reaction Cycles CRC who have become a major supplier of bike parts to SA despite being located in Ireland. Their keen pricing and large range of stock make them a viable alternative to the LBS (local bike shop).
Then came the local equivalent Chris Willemse Cycles CWC cycles in Tygerberg who challenged the traditional supply chain and continue to source and supply popular brands and low cost. So now local bike shops and distributors have been forced to get online. Some will make it and some won't, it all depends on you the customer.
The online bike shop can't replace the LBS simply becuase they don't serve coffee. But you should be able to save some time and money if that is what you need from your bike shop.
Previous tips
First it was Chain Reaction Cycles CRC who have become a major supplier of bike parts to SA despite being located in Ireland. Their keen pricing and large range of stock make them a viable alternative to the LBS (local bike shop).
Then came the local equivalent Chris Willemse Cycles CWC cycles in Tygerberg who challenged the traditional supply chain and continue to source and supply popular brands and low cost. So now local bike shops and distributors have been forced to get online. Some will make it and some won't, it all depends on you the customer.
The online bike shop can't replace the LBS simply becuase they don't serve coffee. But you should be able to save some time and money if that is what you need from your bike shop.
Previous tips
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Out with the old models and in with the new
Out with the old and in with the new, the annual cycle of new bike stuff that comes around at about this time of the year is getting underway. If you try to buy a new bike at about this time of the year you may be met with some blank stares and low stock levels.
What is left in the shops now is the left over 2010 stock before the arrival of the 2011 stock.
This is not necessarily a bad thing as long as you know what to expect.
If you are looking for a good deal on a bike and you are not fussy or brand conscious then now is a good time to buy. You may not find the colour you are looking for and will need to rely on some luck to get the right size but you should be able to get a good deal on clear out stock. Stores would like to get rid of old stock to make place for new ranges, so pounce now.
If you are looking for the latest and greatest then now is the time to be patient and do your research. Most manufacturers are launching the new 2011 ranges, and you can get your early order in to avoid disappointment. Also with the rand looking strong we should be in for some decent bike prices if it remains at these favourable exchange rate levels.
If you need help deciding what to buy then get some help.
What is left in the shops now is the left over 2010 stock before the arrival of the 2011 stock.
This is not necessarily a bad thing as long as you know what to expect.
If you are looking for a good deal on a bike and you are not fussy or brand conscious then now is a good time to buy. You may not find the colour you are looking for and will need to rely on some luck to get the right size but you should be able to get a good deal on clear out stock. Stores would like to get rid of old stock to make place for new ranges, so pounce now.
If you are looking for the latest and greatest then now is the time to be patient and do your research. Most manufacturers are launching the new 2011 ranges, and you can get your early order in to avoid disappointment. Also with the rand looking strong we should be in for some decent bike prices if it remains at these favourable exchange rate levels.
If you need help deciding what to buy then get some help.
Wednesday, August 04, 2010
How big is your saddle bag?
How much should you carry with you when you ride?
If you are like me you will err on the side of minimalism, if you listened to the "experts" you may end up looking like a pack mule crossing the desert for 3 months with a complete tool box.
I guess the answer really lies somewhere in between, but where? Well ask yourself 2 simple questions.
1. What is the likely hood that I will require this item
2. What is the worst that would happen if I did not have it.
That brings me to the pump and the chain breaker. Without these two items you are definitely in for a long walk because a flat wheel or a broken chain are your most likely mechanicals and definite show stoppers. Not to mention that you feel like a real idiot knowing that they are sitting on the shelf at home as you hobble home.
If you are like me you will err on the side of minimalism, if you listened to the "experts" you may end up looking like a pack mule crossing the desert for 3 months with a complete tool box.
I guess the answer really lies somewhere in between, but where? Well ask yourself 2 simple questions.
1. What is the likely hood that I will require this item
2. What is the worst that would happen if I did not have it.
That brings me to the pump and the chain breaker. Without these two items you are definitely in for a long walk because a flat wheel or a broken chain are your most likely mechanicals and definite show stoppers. Not to mention that you feel like a real idiot knowing that they are sitting on the shelf at home as you hobble home.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Review: Effetto Mariposa Caffelatex sealant
bikefix Exclusive Review: Effetto Mariposa Caffelatex sealant
In the year since a local shop gave us a couple of tires' worth of Effetto Mariposa's Caffelatex sealant to try, I've fallen in to and then back out of love with the the bubbly stuff. My long-term experience suggests that that it does have its place, but isn't the best solution for all conditions (including ours). I was first interested in trying Caffelatex sealant after hearing stories about the effects that ammonia-rich sealants can have on bikes' rims. When corrosive ammonia is exposed to unprotected aluminum, it can corrode the rims of which they're made. Or so I've heard. Seeing as the jury's still out on the chemical's effects when used on tubeless setups, it seemed as though a low-ammonia or ammonia-free sealant (like Caffelatex) might be a good idea over the long haul.
http://www.bikefix.net/2010/07/bikefix-exclusive-review-effetto.html
In the year since a local shop gave us a couple of tires' worth of Effetto Mariposa's Caffelatex sealant to try, I've fallen in to and then back out of love with the the bubbly stuff. My long-term experience suggests that that it does have its place, but isn't the best solution for all conditions (including ours). I was first interested in trying Caffelatex sealant after hearing stories about the effects that ammonia-rich sealants can have on bikes' rims. When corrosive ammonia is exposed to unprotected aluminum, it can corrode the rims of which they're made. Or so I've heard. Seeing as the jury's still out on the chemical's effects when used on tubeless setups, it seemed as though a low-ammonia or ammonia-free sealant (like Caffelatex) might be a good idea over the long haul.
http://www.bikefix.net/2010/07/bikefix-exclusive-review-effetto.html
MTB Tire Sealant
The behaviour of a tyre sealant in case of a flat is not an exact science, as there're so many variables and side conditions that could be the reason of success or failure.
MTB Tire Sealant Stans vs CaffeLatex
MTB Tire Sealant Stans vs CaffeLatex
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Ride like a kid
Kids on bikes are the ultimate source of fun and freedom.
If you have got kids then take them riding. There is no excuse for them being too small or too old. They will love it and love you for doing it.
If you don't have kids then get out there and ride like a kid. Go fast, go hard and follow your nose. Every ride is an adventure all you have to do is get on your bike and ride. If you can take someone with you then even better.
If you have got kids then take them riding. There is no excuse for them being too small or too old. They will love it and love you for doing it.
If you don't have kids then get out there and ride like a kid. Go fast, go hard and follow your nose. Every ride is an adventure all you have to do is get on your bike and ride. If you can take someone with you then even better.
If you want to know where or how go to www.mtbonline.co.za
Monday, July 26, 2010
Team Pilatus finish Transalp: STAGE 8Madonna D.C. - Riva67.26km +1462mWhat c...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 8
Madonna D.C. - Riva
67.26km +1462m
What c...: "STAGE 8 Madonna D.C. - Riva 67.26km +1462m What can you say at the end of such a great adventure? A medium length stage with lots of grave..."
Madonna D.C. - Riva
67.26km +1462m
What c...: "STAGE 8 Madonna D.C. - Riva 67.26km +1462m What can you say at the end of such a great adventure? A medium length stage with lots of grave..."
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Team Pilatus Transalp: STAGE 6 Ponte Di Legnol to Male 72,61 km +2363m...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 6
Ponte Di Legnol to Male
72,61 km +2363m...: "STAGE 6 Ponte Di Legnol to Male 72,61 km +2363m Today was all about strategy - looking at the course last night we saw there was a 15 km..."
Ponte Di Legnol to Male
72,61 km +2363m...: "STAGE 6 Ponte Di Legnol to Male 72,61 km +2363m Today was all about strategy - looking at the course last night we saw there was a 15 km..."
Team Pilatus Transalp: STAGE 5 Livigno to Porte Di Legno 106.87 km +3461...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 5
Livigno to Porte Di Legno
106.87 km +3461...: "STAGE 5 Livigno to Porte Di Legno 106.87 km +3461m Stage 5 of this years Transalp was the longest and hardest in terms of distance and vert..."
Livigno to Porte Di Legno
106.87 km +3461...: "STAGE 5 Livigno to Porte Di Legno 106.87 km +3461m Stage 5 of this years Transalp was the longest and hardest in terms of distance and vert..."
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Team Pilatus Transalp: STAGE 4 Scuol to Livigno 76km +2300m The weathe...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 4
Scuol to Livigno
76km +2300m
The weathe...: "STAGE 4 Scuol to Livigno 76km +2300m The weather was glorious this morning in Scuol, as it has been for the whole race so far. We have be..."
Scuol to Livigno
76km +2300m
The weathe...: "STAGE 4 Scuol to Livigno 76km +2300m The weather was glorious this morning in Scuol, as it has been for the whole race so far. We have be..."
Cross Country MTB is great because….
If you have never tried XC mountain biking, or forgotten what it is like, let me remind you, it is a whack load of fun whether you are riding or watching!
For those not familiar with cross country mountain biking, it is a discipline of MTB racing that involves a number of laps on a relatively short MTB route of about 7km long.
It has come back into fashion now thanks to local world cup champion Burry Stander and thanks to the UCI hosting world cup events in Pietermaritzburg in 2009 and 2011.
Cross country MTB took a bit of a beating from all the marathon events over the last few years but is making a strong comeback and rightly so, because there are many reasons to ride XC MTB like
The venues are usually easily accessible and close to the bigger cities
The routes always have loads of singletrack, no boring tar or country road
Its technically challenging so you get a good kick of adrenalin and boost your skills
Your ride laps so you get to do the fun bits over and over again
You race against your age group so its always fair and competitive
You get a decent workout of skills and fitness in just a couple of hours
You can often ride and spectate because there are different start times
The whole family can take part and or spectate and see you riding.
So sharpen your skills, increase your speed and have some fun at a XC MTB event.
For those not familiar with cross country mountain biking, it is a discipline of MTB racing that involves a number of laps on a relatively short MTB route of about 7km long.
It has come back into fashion now thanks to local world cup champion Burry Stander and thanks to the UCI hosting world cup events in Pietermaritzburg in 2009 and 2011.
Cross country MTB took a bit of a beating from all the marathon events over the last few years but is making a strong comeback and rightly so, because there are many reasons to ride XC MTB like
The venues are usually easily accessible and close to the bigger cities
The routes always have loads of singletrack, no boring tar or country road
Its technically challenging so you get a good kick of adrenalin and boost your skills
Your ride laps so you get to do the fun bits over and over again
You race against your age group so its always fair and competitive
You get a decent workout of skills and fitness in just a couple of hours
You can often ride and spectate because there are different start times
The whole family can take part and or spectate and see you riding.
So sharpen your skills, increase your speed and have some fun at a XC MTB event.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Team Pilatus Transalp: STAGE 3 Ischgl to Scuol75km +2500mThis morning...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 3
Ischgl to Scuol
75km +2500m
This morning...: "STAGE 3 Ischgl to Scuol 75km +2500m This morning the lights were turned on at 0530 and less than 10 mins later there were racers walking a..."
Ischgl to Scuol
75km +2500m
This morning...: "STAGE 3 Ischgl to Scuol 75km +2500m This morning the lights were turned on at 0530 and less than 10 mins later there were racers walking a..."
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 2Imst to Ischgl77km +3100mAfter a night ...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 2
Imst to Ischgl
77km +3100m
After a night ...: "STAGE 2 Imst to Ischgl 77km +3100m After a night in a tennis hall we start into stage 2 with another neutralised start of 6km. A relentless..."
Imst to Ischgl
77km +3100m
After a night ...: "STAGE 2 Imst to Ischgl 77km +3100m After a night in a tennis hall we start into stage 2 with another neutralised start of 6km. A relentless..."
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 1Füssen, Germany to Imst, Austria79.80 km...
Team Pilatus Velomenal-Radsport Transalp: STAGE 1
Füssen, Germany to Imst, Austria
79.80 km...: "STAGE 1 Füssen, Germany to Imst, Austria 79.80 km with +1958 m ascent The today's stage took us from Füssen to Imst and we were glad to ..."
Füssen, Germany to Imst, Austria
79.80 km...: "STAGE 1 Füssen, Germany to Imst, Austria 79.80 km with +1958 m ascent The today's stage took us from Füssen to Imst and we were glad to ..."
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
More kids equals more bikes
Wiesbaden, Germany - Almost all (99 per cent) two-children households
in Germany have a bicycle, according to the Federal Office of
Statistics.
in Germany have a bicycle, according to the Federal Office of
Statistics.
In comparison, only 79 per cent of households without children have a
bicycle, the office reported.
The disparity is even greater if the number of bicycles is considered:
for every 100 households, regardless of number of children, there are
179 bicycles. But for every 100 households with two children there are
387 bicycles - almost one for each member of the family. - Sapa-DPA
So blame all the bikes on the kids next time.
Thursday, July 08, 2010
Trips n Trails shorten winter
Another trick to keep you on your bike through winter is to scout some new trails and venues. There are many new MTB bike trails and quite a few MTB bike parks popping up now. So take a trip with the family or friends for the day and have some fun.
Also take advantage of those balmy winter afternoons that our country is famous for and go riding in the afternoon when it is warmer and the sun is out.
Winter is the best time for MTB, it is way more fun than the road, and not nearly as cold because we go so slow.
Also take advantage of those balmy winter afternoons that our country is famous for and go riding in the afternoon when it is warmer and the sun is out.
Winter is the best time for MTB, it is way more fun than the road, and not nearly as cold because we go so slow.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Race to stay on your bike this winter
Last week was the shortest day, that means that summer is coming.
To stay on your mountain bike during winter pick an event or biking trip during or after winter and enter and plan it. It gives you something to aim for and it will keep you honest and training.
You must commit, pay the money, make the bookings – if you plan it, it will come.
Or just commit to one of the winter MTB race series where you can get out almost every weekend and do some of the many shorter events held all over in Gauteng, Cape and KZN.
To stay on your mountain bike during winter pick an event or biking trip during or after winter and enter and plan it. It gives you something to aim for and it will keep you honest and training.
You must commit, pay the money, make the bookings – if you plan it, it will come.
Or just commit to one of the winter MTB race series where you can get out almost every weekend and do some of the many shorter events held all over in Gauteng, Cape and KZN.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
MtbOnline facebook page
Facebook users can now find us at our new facebook page MTBOnline at Facebook.
We have introduced an MTB page on facebook where you can connect with us to find all the latest updates and posts to our website and blog.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
MTB Tip of the Week
MTBOnline MTB Tip of the Week
MtbOnline Updates are back, but with a new name and theme. Our new new weekly update will be called MTB Tip of the Week.
Every week we will send you a brief MTB tip of the week. Something to inspire, help, teach and motivate you to enjoy your mountain bike more.
It maybe to ride more, faster, further or to fix your bike, understand your bike, buy a new bike, find a new ride buddy or any one of the other thousands of MTB tips that we will dig up.
Subscribe here http://www.mtbonline.co.za/newsletter.htm
So lets kick it off with a world cup of our own.
2011 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup
April 23-24: Pietermaritzburg, South Africa (XCO/DHI/4X)
Yip its true. If you thought the soccer world cup was hot then you better get organised for the MTB World cup in Pietermaritzburg in 2011.
It was announced last week. Make your plans now for next year.
Pack those flags away safely and haul them out in April next year to support our SA riders.
Sunday, May 09, 2010
Iodine wheels
First ride on the wheels was pretty awesome. Wheels seem really fast despite being heavier than my other sets.
There is no flex and they track really well. I think it has to do with the fact that the weight is more biased toward the centre of the wheel.
More later...
There is no flex and they track really well. I think it has to do with the fact that the weight is more biased toward the centre of the wheel.
More later...
Saturday, May 08, 2010
Zula gets a facelift
What I can tell you so far is that the orange colour matches the Morewood perfectly.
More later...
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Day 2 start
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Day 1 done
Morewood handled awesomely well. BAT sealant saved the day, sealing a huge cut in my front tyre allowing me to finish with no worries.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
The 29er vs 26" debate
The debate of the 29er is well on its way, you will see some pros riding them but then they have to? Question is will the average guy take the bait and go for it.
The average guy was challenged with this
http://www.singletrackworld.com/2010/04/pace-129er/
To all the 29" slayers out there: Compare the components (frame, wheels, forks) of a 26" hardtail, 26", 140mm travel trail bike and a 29" hardtail/FS, then you'll see that indeed all 3 of them need different tires, rims, forks and frames. Thus I classify a 29" bike as just a nother category of MTB. And as such, it will be suited to specific terrain, rider sizes and rider styles. So just as I prefer a 140mm travel trail bike over a 100mm bike, someone else might prefer a 29" bike.
I would still like to see a shootout/comparison between a 29" hardtail and 26", 100mm travel FS bike on a XC & Marathon course....
He replied with this;
MBAction did a shoot out between 3 hardtails. 26, 29 and 650b. The main conclusion was that each bike was good for different things. Basically the shootout was a draw.
We need to settle this the FB way!
Let’s ask an ex-SA champ to ride 2 bikes for us on a 5km course at Groenkloof that includes rock gardens, smooth dirt and a steep climb. Let’s take his time on the different bikes and interview him afterwards on how he felt.
The beauty of this plan is that while he is tackling the course, we can set up our lawn chairs and drink beer.
Matt will have to donate the 29er hardtail. Fritz can ride his Ellsworth as the other bike.
Then we can also blindfold him and send him out on the course and see if he can tell us which particular bike he is crashing into a tree. This will obviously be much later in the afternoon when the affects of the amber brew is at its best.
If Mr. P is faster on a 29er Hardtail I will sell my Zula and use the money to buy baggies and grow my leg hairs into beautiful matted fur.
bUndi responded with this;
This is indeed a good plan, but being a bike riding scientist I can confirm that it is fundamentally flawed and is in fact more about entertainment rather than an actual test.
The FBCC has a long and rich heritage and this allows a certain amount of wisdom
This debate is not new, its just dressed differently and our memories are fading
Rigid fork vs suspension fork was the first debate
Hardtail vs full suss was the second one – only recently concluded I might add
Suspension won the first two debates not because it was new but because it was sound technology that works.
The 29er is not new technology nor is it suspension, its just plain new-pooh
If big wheels ruled then we’d all be riding
Pennyfarthings and cars with 100 inch rims and srns (solid rigid no suspension)
Lets also compare apples and pears to see which one tastes better
But let me leave you with this last thought – If you need the 3 inches extra then by all means go for it!
And lastly little Chris had this to say;
Sadly you are missing the point. This debate is based more in the philosophical world. Don't think science, think Top Gear's Cool Wall. Seeing as no member of the FBCC (By constitution I am sure) should ever be a contender for podium spots in a race, the crux of this argument is rather to determine which is cooler to ride, without being hindered by totally useless equipment (If only to reach the post-race beer quicker). And don't let any of the FBCC's other constituents' attempt at clever science talk fool you!
Oh yes, and it is an opportunity to drink beer. Duuhhh!!!
So we anxiously await the results of this “test” and in the meantime the debate rages on!
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