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DIALED PODCAST 355

We respond to some great listener questions on how AI is being infused into cycling, how to get comfortable racing crits, what Campagnolo's future looks like, and much more.  Enjoy the podcast!

Dialed Cycling Podcast #355 - Recap

Ride On: Tucson's Legendary Shootout and Cycling Adventures from the Dialed Cycling Team

Welcome back to the Dialed Cycling Lab’s blog! In this episode of the Dialed Podcast, Jake, Lance, and Matt take us on a journey filled with some sweet cycling adventures, gear tips, and the ever-entertaining banter that makes the show a must-listen. This week, Lance shares highlights from his trip to Arizona, including his first mountain bike race, epic rides around Tucson, and his experience with the legendary Tucson Shootout. Matt chimes in with winter training updates, while Jake sprinkles in his unique blend of humor and insight. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or simply enjoy a good story, this episode has something for everyone.

Let’s dive into the details of the team’s adventures, Tucson’s cycling culture, and practical takeaways for cyclists of all levels.


Backpedaling with the Team

The podcast kicks off with the crew’s signature segment, “Backpedaling,” where they reflect on their recent rides and challenges. Here’s what the team has been up to:

Lance’s Arizona Adventure

Lance’s backpedal was nothing short of magical. He embarked on a 10-day road trip to Arizona, stopping in Phoenix and Tucson for some sunshine, warm rides, and new experiences. His highlight? Competing in the McDowell Meltdown mountain bike race, where he snagged first place in his age group (men’s 50-59 intermediate). Navigating singletrack trails and practicing his passing techniques, Lance described the race as exhilarating.

After Phoenix, he explored Tucson’s famed cycling scene, taking on the iconic Mount Lemmon climb and participating in group rides with local teams like the Dogs of Tucson and the Tucson Masters. These rides showcased the beauty of Arizona’s landscape and the camaraderie of its cycling community.

Matt’s Winter Training

Meanwhile, Matt kept things closer to home but no less intense. He’s been focused on swimming, running, and cycling to maintain his streak in the team’s Tiled 100 Challenge. With new gear in hand—including gloves that kept his fingers toasty on chilly rides—Matt tackled winter conditions like a pro. He emphasized the importance of layering up and staying motivated, even on those “just-get-it-done” days.

Jake’s Comeback

Jake shared updates on his indoor training sessions. Despite a few interruptions from life’s chaos, he managed to string together several solid days of riding. His goal? Gradually build his fitness and get back on the road for outdoor rides. Jake also reflected on his fondness for cycling traditions, drawing inspiration from Lance’s Tucson stories.


Exploring Tucson’s Cycling Scene

Arizona’s warm weather and vibrant cycling community make it a dream destination for cyclists. Lance’s stories paint a vivid picture of why Tucson is a must-visit for enthusiasts:

Mount Lemmon: A Climber’s Paradise

Mount Lemmon’s 21-mile climb is a rite of passage for cyclists. Lance described it as the perfect gradient for sustained efforts, with no interruptions from traffic lights or stop signs. Starting at La Buzz coffee shop (a local favorite), Lance rode all the way to the summit at 8,500 feet, soaking in the views and reveling in the challenge.

The Legendary Tucson Shootout

The Tucson Shootout is a Saturday group ride steeped in tradition, running strong for over 40 years. It’s no ordinary ride; it’s a proving ground for local and visiting cyclists, including pros like Quinn Simmons and Keegan Swenson. Lance detailed the structure:

  • A, B, and C Groups: The A group (150 riders strong) is for the fastest of the fast, while the B and C groups provide more accessible options for varying skill levels.

  • Rolling Start: Riders roll out from the University of Arizona, picking up more cyclists along the way. After a neutral section, the pace ramps up, and the competition begins.

  • Challenging Segments: The ride includes long stretches of 1-2% gradients, fast-paced sprints, and optional climbs like Madera Canyon.

Lance emphasized the sense of community and respect among riders, noting that even with large groups, the roads felt safe and welcoming.


Lessons for Building Cycling Communities

The Tucson Shootout isn’t just a ride—it’s a blueprint for fostering a thriving cycling culture. Jake and the team reflected on what makes it special and how similar traditions could grow in other regions:

  1. Consistency: A ride that happens every week without fail builds loyalty and anticipation.

  2. Inclusivity: Offering different groups (A, B, and C) ensures there’s a place for everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.

  3. Engagement: Connecting with local businesses, like coffee shops, and offering unique routes adds to the experience.

The team compared Tucson’s scene to Portland’s, brainstorming ways to elevate local rides like the Savvy Shootout and Flogging Ride.


Cycling Tips and Fun Banter

In true Dialed Podcast fashion, the episode also included answers to listener questions, ranging from crit racing tips to fueling strategies. Here are some highlights:

Crit Racing Tips

Crit racing can be intimidating, but the team offered these tips for getting comfortable:

  • Practice in Group Rides: Simulate race conditions to build confidence.

  • Positioning Matters: Stay near the front to avoid crashes and conserve energy.

  • Expect the Unexpected: Crashes happen; it’s part of the sport. Learn to read other riders and adjust accordingly.

Fueling Strategies

The team shared their go-to nutrition choices:

  • Lance loves solid food for long rides, like burritos and bananas.

  • Matt prefers Science in Sport gels for their easy digestion.

  • Jake highlighted the importance of trial and error to find what works best for your body.


Conclusion

Tucson’s cycling scene, Lance’s adventures, and the team’s practical advice make this podcast episode a goldmine for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to improve your crit racing skills, plan a trip to Arizona, or simply stay motivated through winter training, there’s something here for you.

Tune in to the full episode on the Dialed Cycling Podcast for more laughs, insights, and inspiration. Don’t forget to subscribe and join the conversation—we love hearing from our listeners!

CONTACT THE DIALED CYCLING PODCAST

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