Dialed Cycling Podcast 350 - Recap

This week on the Dialed Cycling Podcast, the crew shares stories about sunny rides in Southern California, brushes with cycling legends, and the joys of training during the winter. Dive into this recap to uncover training tips, funny moments, and all the camaraderie that makes cycling culture so special. And, of course, don’t forget to check out the full podcast for even more insights and laughs.

1. A Sunny Escape to Southern California

Winter gloom got Lance and Ian dreaming of warmer days, so they packed their bikes and headed to San Diego. With flight benefits and hotel perks in hand, they managed to pull off a budget-friendly cycling getaway. Over three days, they logged 14 hours of riding in perfect 65-70°F weather. Their agenda was clear: base training without the grueling climbs.

Highlights of the Trip:

• Cycling with Chris Horner: A serendipitous encounter with the former pro rider on the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) turned into a casual group ride. Over coffee at Panikin Café in Encinitas, Horner shared tales, adding an unforgettable touch to their trip.
• Cycling camaraderie: Lance and Ian encountered a 70-year-old rider who kept up with their 23 mph pace on the PCH. It’s a testament to the inclusive spirit of cycling—age is just a number when you’re on two wheels!

2. Winter Riding Woes: The Cold Truth

Meanwhile, Matt shared his cold-weather cycling struggles. Missing a glove on a frosty ride left him contemplating frostbite. But the mishap served as a reminder of the importance of good gear. With conditions like 35°F and rain in the Pacific Northwest, the crew agrees: layering and quality gloves are non-negotiable for winter riding.

3. Training Through the Holidays

Balancing training with holiday indulgence is no easy feat. Lance plans to tackle the Rapha 500, a 500 km cycling challenge between Christmas and New Year’s, to stay motivated. The podcast team shared tips for maintaining fitness during the festive season:

• Set a goal: Having an early race on the calendar can keep you on track.
• Enjoy guilt-free indulgence: Manage portions but don’t skip the treats entirely.
• Consistency is key: Even short indoor trainer rides can make a difference.

4. Cycling News: Cross Championships and Legends

The crew dove into exciting updates in the world of cyclocross, including:

• Cyclocross Nationals: With elite races happening in Louisville, KY, it’s thrilling to see fields like the 70+ Masters division drawing 24 competitors.
• Cycling legends collide: Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert’s upcoming cyclocross showdowns promise an intense rivalry. Predictions? The crew leans toward van der Poel for dominance, though surprises are always possible.

5. Gear Talk: Clean Bikes and Fresh Chains

When it comes to maintaining their rides, the team had plenty to share:

• Cleanliness matters: Lance swears by Muc-Off degreasers, while Ian relies on isopropyl alcohol for chain cleaning.
• Chain waxing: Dialed Cycling Lab offers a chain waxing service for top efficiency—a great option for cyclists looking to minimize friction and maximize performance.

6. Inspiration from Older Riders

The crew reflected on the inspiring performances of cyclists in their 70s, 80s, and even 90s. With 24 riders competing in the 70-74 division at Nationals, it’s clear that cycling is a lifelong sport.

Stay Dialed

This week’s podcast was packed with entertaining stories, practical advice, and a glimpse into the vibrant world of cycling. Whether you’re braving the winter chill, gearing up for a big race, or enjoying coffee shop rides, there’s something for everyone in this episode.