Dialed Podcast Deep Dive:  First Impressions of Wahoo's New ACE Bike Computer, and the Power of FTP

Cyclists of all kinds, welcome to another action-packed recap of the Dialed Podcast! Whether you're into road racing, mountain biking, or leisurely rides through scenic trails, this episode is brimming with humor, tech reviews, fitness insights, and everything in between. Join hosts Jake von Duering, Lance Heppler, Matt LeGrand, and Ian Gibson as they delve into the latest cycling trends, gear, and training tips.

Here's a breakdown of this episode's highlights:

1. Backpedaling: Training, Transition, and Tales from the Trail

The episode kicks off with the team sharing their recent cycling adventures and mishaps. From Ian embracing post-COVID recovery rides to Lance’s battle with a creaking Zipp wheel, the stories are equal parts relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. Highlights include:

• Ian’s “calorie math” dilemma: A candid confession about juggling dieting and training.
• Lance’s puncture woes: Nine glorious miles on a new tire end abruptly with a torn sidewall.
• Jake’s recovery hiatus: Post-surgery downtime sparks reflections on how to balance fitness and life.

Takeaway: Whether you're conquering muddy cyclocross courses or surviving mechanical mishaps, every ride has a story worth sharing.

2. Cycling Chronicles: The Latest News and Key Insights

Lance reports on the cyclocross season, including:

• Pidcock's Team Change: The British phenom leaves Ineos for Q36.5, a move to lead his own squad in one-day races.
• Remco Evenepoel’s Accident: The cycling champ faces a setback after colliding with a postal worker’s car door.
• Dublin Cyclocross Highlights: An electrifying men’s race sees Michael Vanthourenhout clawing back from a shoe mishap to take the win.

Prediction: With the U.S. Nationals around the corner, eyes are on Andrew Strohmeyer, Kerry Werner, and Curtis White to dominate the elite field.

3. Gear Talk: Wahoo Ace Cycling Computer Review

The hosts unbox and review the Wahoo Ace, the brand’s largest and most feature-rich cycling computer. Key features include:

• Size and Display: Its massive screen is perfect for navigation but may not suit weight-conscious racers.
• Battery Life: A touted 30 hours, but real-world use may vary.
• Navigation Features: Touchscreen functionality and audible turn-by-turn directions.

Despite its promising specs, early firmware bugs left the hosts questioning if Wahoo rushed the release. As Lance plans to put it through its paces, the verdict is still out.

4. All Things FTP: Understanding and Maximizing Your Functional Threshold Power

Ian takes the mic to explain FTP (Functional Threshold Power), a cornerstone metric for training. Here’s what you need to know:

• What is FTP? The highest power output you can sustain for an hour, often estimated through shorter tests.
• Why it Matters: FTP sets training zones, tracks progress, and predicts performance.
• Improving FTP: Structured training, proper nutrition, and consistent effort can boost this critical metric.

Pro Tip: FTP isn’t just for racers. Recreational cyclists can use it to improve endurance, tackle charity rides, or simply enjoy their sport more.

5. Listener Interaction: Polls, Feedback, and Fun

The team invites listeners to weigh in on hot cycling debates, including:

• SRAM vs. Shimano: The age-old component rivalry.
• Garmin vs. Wahoo: Which cycling computer reigns supreme?

Listeners are encouraged to interact via text or polls, adding a dynamic, community-driven element to the podcast.

6. Looking Ahead: What’s Next on the Dialed Podcast

The hosts tease future topics, from FTP deep dives to new tech launches. With their signature blend of expertise and humor, every episode promises something for everyone in the cycling world.

Why Tune In?

This episode isn’t just a podcast; it’s a celebration of cycling culture. With its mix of practical advice, industry news, and banter, it’s the perfect companion for a trainer ride or morning commute. Head to www.dialedcycling.com to catch the full episode and join the conversation.