Cyclocross Fever

Ok, SO I did my first cyclocross race this weekend I am hooked. The mix between mountain biking and road cycling goes beyond the changes in terrain. Mountain biking has many short bursts of power where road cycling is more high cadance spinning. Cyclocross combines the constant spin with more power. Now I understand why it is a great training program extending the season so the winter recovery brings ytou right into spring. When you are moving into the sea of mud that is a thick as wet concrete, you learn to keep pumping hard without mashing so you wheel does not spin out. Also remember that you are not on a mountain bike. There are times when you want to rip the bike around the corner but having less rubber to grip the turn does give it an element of danger to raise you heart rate just enough to keep it exciting. One thing that is worth learning is the proper mount-remount because many people get passed like they are standing still.

I road my new Jamis Supernova. It felt great in all the conditions thrown at it. This bike is also been my commuter bike for the past few weeks. The wider softer tire is great on a road that is full of potholes and piles of leaves. The bike just rolls on through it. Especially at night when even the brightest of lights doesnt show every bump in the road. http://www.getawaycyclecenter.com/

Offical fall weather moves in

That special weather that chills you to the bone. The kind of cold that you just cant shake until you are in front of a fire. Hot choclate, Tea, Coffee, Soup, or Brandy......anything to take away that chill. We have been riding all season and we fell on top of our game then we deal with the season end. Truely the season never ends for cycling it just gets harder to get out there and do it. Certain items can keep you rolling thru the fall.

1) Lights - front & rear.....do not be shy....the brighter the better.
2) Waterproof/Windproff/Thermal Jacket & Tights such as various Pearl Izumi's "Barrier" or the "Pro" lines
3) Gloves, Hat/Balaclavia, Shoe cover with the same qualities as 2) above
4) Wider/knobby tires, maybe even metal studded
5) Fenders - the roads are just messy this time of year

This equipment in not cheap, but it will last season after season and keep you smiling because you will be riding comfortably all year long.

Go slower then normal, watch wet leaves, and caution on corners. Wet leaves on a corner is the last time I fell on the road (20yrs ago).