Virtual -v- Real World Cycling
During the COVID-19 lock-down, I have aimed to do as much as my training indoors as possible. I have a smart trainer for cycling and a treadmill for running. I have used various apps for both with my current favourites being Zwift for running and Bkool, the same brand as my trainer, for cycling. Zwift … Continue reading Virtual -v- Real World Cycling
Cycling-themed movie playlist
Here is an interesting playlist from Cycling UK. As they say: Whether you’re self-isolating, in quarantine, social-distancing, or just looking for a movie-marathon, grab the popcorn and get comfy, there’s something here for everyone. Here is a link to their list: Get your cycling fix(ie) with our suggested playlist of cycling-themed films IMO, there are … Continue reading Cycling-themed movie playlist
Back on the road to fitness week 3
Tempo to Sprints So the challenge here is to complete 4 short, high-intensity intervals of increasing power, after first opening with a steady 15min Tempo effort. By working aerobically in the early 15min effort you will be improving the ability to deliver oxygen to the working muscles and preserve your carbohydrate stores for the finishing … Continue reading Back on the road to fitness week 3
Back on the road to fitness – now includes running
And another first yesterday. I wanted to start cross-training and start running again. Not that I am an accomplished runner by any means. Although I did manage to complete the couch to 5ktraining plan a couple of years ago. I have also have had a treadmill for about a year which has been neglected. So … Continue reading Back on the road to fitness – now includes running
The joy of cycling part 2
I’ve blogged before about forgetting about all the trappings that we love to surround ourselves with and just getting out on the bike and riding for the sheer joy of it. Today was one of those days. I had planned a ride out on the road bike but, because of strong winds, decided on an … Continue reading The joy of cycling part 2
Lorries face London ban ‘to protect cyclists’
The headline for this article on the BBC news website is not quite correct as “The mayor’s office said that over the past two years HGVs were involved in 23% of pedestrian fatalities and 58% of cyclist deaths in London, despite accounting for just 4% of the miles driven in the city.” It is very … Continue reading Lorries face London ban ‘to protect cyclists’
The toughest ride I’ve ever done
Today I did the toughest ride that I have ever done. It was tougher than the first sponsored ride that I did which knocked me for six. It was tougher than my 100 miles to nowhere ride. And this one was less than 40 miles. It was the London to Southend off road. This route … Continue reading The toughest ride I’ve ever done
A simple question
So, what do you think the courts would give you if you were guilty of causing death by dangerous driving? Before you answer, consider what that means. You have caused the death of another person because of the way they drove their car. It was their fault that the other person is dead. You killed … Continue reading A simple question
Cyclists face pothole peril as road repairs are delayed
This is a very telling article that was published on The Times website today. The number of injuries and deaths rises by 1%, but something that could be very easily done to help reduce that figure isn’t being done. Potholes can be lethal, but councils are slow to repair them, says CTC, a cycling charity … Continue reading Cyclists face pothole peril as road repairs are delayed
Rediscovering the Joy of Cycling
Over the summer, I started to lose the drive I had for getting up and going out on the bike for long rides. Even shorter rides started to become a chore. Certainly the inner chimp had something to do with it. But so did the rigmarole that a lot of us go through before getting … Continue reading Rediscovering the Joy of Cycling
An unscientific experiment into the effects of the wind when cycling
Everyone who rides a bike will have battled against headwinds at one time or another. I remember one occasion when cycling along the seafront on a particularly windy day, that it was so strong, I almost came to a standstill. It wasn’t quiet that bad when I was out a couple of weeks ago but … Continue reading An unscientific experiment into the effects of the wind when cycling
Cycle Lanes (Again)
I have blogged several times about my dislike of cycle lanes and how, in my opinion, they can be downright dangerous for me and other people (as well as children, animals being walked, etc) who (mis-)use them. I am also fed-up with the abuse of motorists when I choose not use them, mainly because of … Continue reading Cycle Lanes (Again)
Cycling with diabetes and without sugar
I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes just over a year ago and now seems as good a time as any to look back at how this has affected my cycling and whether sports drinks really did help my performance. It came as a complete shock when I was diagnosed with diabetes. But looking back … Continue reading Cycling with diabetes and without sugar
Cycle safety video
Each year 3,000 cyclists are killed or injured on UK roads, and approximately 1/5th of those are children. Osbornes Solicitors have created this video using statistics from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), which shows that there are 17,000 cyclist deaths or injuries in reported road accidents every year. Most of these … Continue reading Cycle safety video
Q. My Edge 205/305 unit will not power on after being removed from the charging source. How can I get it to turn on?
In the past I have been unable to turn on my Garmin Edge after removing it from the charging source. This is how I sorted it out For some reason, your device may have temporarily locked up. In order to “wake it up”: Connect the unit to the available power source Press reset and mode for … Continue reading Q. My Edge 205/305 unit will not power on after being removed from the charging source. How can I get it to turn on?
What to do if you have a bicycle accident
It can happen to us all. But are you prepared if are unfortunate enough to have an accident? Do you even know what to do (after making sure your bike is ok of course)? Here are some useful tips from the guys at BikeRadar BikeRadar spoke to two cycle insurance specialists, Total Cycle Assist and … Continue reading What to do if you have a bicycle accident
Who is to blame, motorist or cyclist?
According to an article in The Times, research indicates that more than two-thirds of all crashes between drivers and cyclists in Central London are the fault of the motorist. The City of Westminster Council found that drivers were to blame for 68 per cent of collisions between cyclists and motor vehicles in the borough in … Continue reading Who is to blame, motorist or cyclist?
Infographic: Cycling through red lights
Red light jumping can be dangerous and is illegal. But is it true that most red light violations are done by cyclists? Do we have a balanced media coverage on this matter? Well, get ready to change your perception with our infographics. GLUE team decided to visualise the findings based on reports by Cycling Info and Transport for … Continue reading Infographic: Cycling through red lights
Tips for cycling in snow
From: ETA Trust Keeping your head, hands and knees warm will help you stay alert and relaxed. Cyclists of old used to stuff a newspaper down their fronts to keep out the cold – if you are ever feel in need of an extra layer give it a go as it is surprisingly effective. In … Continue reading Tips for cycling in snow
Motorists –v- Cyclists. Is it sensationalism that will make matters worse?
The BBC are due to air a programme this Wednesday (6th December), called ‘War on Britain’s Roads’. The advance publicity on the BBC website says: Life on Britain’s roads can now be seen from a whole new perspective – thanks to the cycle helmet camera. As thirty-four million vehicles and thirteen million bikes all try … Continue reading Motorists –v- Cyclists. Is it sensationalism that will make matters worse?
Cycling at the 1896 Summer Olympics
Cycling was there right from the start when first Olympic games, called the Games of the I Olympiad, were held in the modern era in 1896. Six cycling events were contested at the Neo Phaliron Velodrome. They were organized and prepared by the Sub-Committee for Cycling. Events were held on 8 April, 11 April, 12 … Continue reading Cycling at the 1896 Summer Olympics
Quick Fixes on Your Bike
If you are a cyclist then this is a ‘must listen to’ podcast from those great guys at Cycling 360 if you don’t want to be stranded miles from home – it will happen one day! http://www.cycling360media.com/quick-fixes-on-your-bike/#comment-125 Quick Fixes and Roadside Repairs Unfortunately our bikes are not in-destructable and from time to time will have … Continue reading Quick Fixes on Your Bike
Around the world in 80 days? Took this guy 92 by bike
This is absolutely amazing and a fantastic achievement http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2012/jun/04/cyclist-wins-round-world-race?CMP=twt_gu Cyclist wins round-the-world race in record time Engineer Mike Hall becomes fastest person to circumnavigate the globe by bicycle, winning race in just 92 days A cyclist has triple cause for celebration after he won a round-the-world race on his birthday and broke the world … Continue reading Around the world in 80 days? Took this guy 92 by bike
Bike security: the home front
Two-thirds of bikes get stolen in or around the home. What’s the best way to protect yours when it’s off duty? http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/bike-blog/2011/oct/12/cycling-theft-home-security
Cycling worth £3bn a year to UK economy, says LSE study
Article found at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/aug/21/cycling-3bn-uk-economy-study Cycling generates nearly £3bn a year for the UK economy, according to a report from the London School of Economics. The figure includes £51m in revenue for British manufacturers from the 3.7m cycles sold in 2010 – a rise of 28% on 2009. The gross cycling contribution of £2.9bn for the economy … Continue reading Cycling worth £3bn a year to UK economy, says LSE study
Guide to Energy Drinks and Foods for Cycling
Not mine but found at: http://www.bikes.org.uk/guide-to-energy-drinks-and-foods-for-cycling/ Here’s a test, nip out on your bike before you read this but don’t do your usual prep. Make sure you’ve not eaten for at least 3 hrs or taken any energy drinks or gel. Just go for about 20 mins and take no water either. How did that … Continue reading Guide to Energy Drinks and Foods for Cycling
How to pass a horse on a bike
I don’t know about you, but one of things I have never known is how cyclists should pass a horse. I had (wrongly) also thought a horse got freaked out by a noisy, fast-moving car and quite cyclists could pass a horse without worrying. Not true. The opposite may actually be true with a horse … Continue reading How to pass a horse on a bike
Car driver madness at the Tour de France
On what seems to be a year festooned with accidents, and one tragic death already, the Tour de France could have done without this. I understand that the riders are ok but have no idea as to the fate of the car driver, but the car should be stopped by the police immediately and she (I … Continue reading Car driver madness at the Tour de France
The world’s most comfortable bike saddle (probably)
Ever since I restarted cycling four years ago, I have had one problem that I have found it impossible to do anything about – sore sit bones! Yes sure, regular cycling makes it easier as they are beaten into submission, but they are always the first thing to suffer on a ride. I have tried … Continue reading The world’s most comfortable bike saddle (probably)
Nine steps towards safer cycling
The London Cycling Campaign, which promotes safer cycling in the capital, has produced a nine-point-plan for reducing the toll of death and injury among cyclists: Enforce speed limits and clamp down on drivers who use mobile phones. Crack down on hit-and-run drivers, who account for a large portion of serious road injuries. Introduce 20mph speed … Continue reading Nine steps towards safer cycling
How Cyclists Should Stretch
Maintain flexibility in muscles prone to tightening through a simple set of key stretching exercises for cyclists which should be practiced everyday for maximum benefit. All these stretching exercises for cyclists are best done after a ride when the body and muscles are still warm. They are performed as static stretches, a method created by … Continue reading How Cyclists Should Stretch
Cycling to work is one of the biggest causes of heart attacks
So here you have it, cycling kills. A report from the Daily Mail about how cyclists risk life and limb at the wheels of other road users? Well no, not quite. But how cycling causes heart attacks. Or does it? Well the article opens with a pretty convincing statement: As any city cyclist will know, … Continue reading Cycling to work is one of the biggest causes of heart attacks
A Boris Bike Virgin No More
Ever since Boris announced the launch of London cycle hire scheme, I have been umming and ahhing about whether to join-up or not. Well, I finally took the plunge and today was my first ride on one. I had expected the bike to weigh a ton and although it undoubtedly was heavy, I was rather surprised … Continue reading A Boris Bike Virgin No More
History of the bike. No 1 in a random series of articles
So just who did invent the bike? Well some would claim that it was Gian Giacomo Caprotti, a pupil of Leonardo da Vinci who is said to have drawn a sketch which was later installed in a church window in Stoke Poges in the 16th Century. This shows a naked angel on a bicycle-like device … Continue reading History of the bike. No 1 in a random series of articles
Garmin-Cervelo prove 100% clean means 100% clean
It must have been a bitter-sweet day today for Garmin-Cervelo. On the day that Cameron Meyer wins the Tour Down Under his team, Garmin-Cervlo, sack their directeur sportif, Matt White, after discovering that he referred Trent Lowe to the former US Postal team physician Dr. Luis Garcia del Moral at the Sports Institute of Valencia in … Continue reading Garmin-Cervelo prove 100% clean means 100% clean
How to clean your bike
This blog from the London Cyclist will tell you just about everything you will ever need to know about cleaning your bike – including what not to do! And as every roadie knows if your bike isn’t 15 percent cleaner than when you bought it, you are a slovenly ne’er-do-well who cannot be trusted. http://www.londoncyclist.co.uk/maintenance/bike-clean/
Cycle events for 2011
So that’s the main events for this year sorted out, just need to find something for May and August: 26 March – Cambridge to Shoeburyness Starting in Cambridge, this 74 mile on road bike rides takes you through the beautiful Cambridgeshire countryside, through the villages of Great Shelford, the stunning Finchingfield and Rettendon. With various … Continue reading Cycle events for 2011
Mamil and proud of it!
My wife sent me a link to this wonderful article today: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-10965608 I just had to save it for prosperity and say right up front that I am a mamil and proud of it. Pollution free and avoiding a heart attack has to be better than the red ‘little dick’ sports car. And this is … Continue reading Mamil and proud of it!
How to convert a gpx file to a crs and upload to your Garmin
I have many times come across questions asking how to convert a gpx file into a format that can be uploaded to your Garmin. This is how to do it: First you need to convert the file into a Garmin Course Database file. This is one which ends in .crs To do this, simply go … Continue reading How to convert a gpx file to a crs and upload to your Garmin
Ouch, ouch and thrice ouch
The Tour has seen all too many crashes during it’s 100 years, but here is a glimpse of some of the worst. Having crashed out a coupe of times I can sympathise with these. Thank the gods I haven’t experienced anything quite this bad though http://www.versus.com/cycling/videos/tdf-worst-wrecks/
A blog worth reading
Here is a blog I can heartly recommend: The London Cyclist. Blogs he posted in April: TfL foolishly allowed me to test out the new London Cycle Hire Bike. I took a look at how its design makes it one of the most user friendly bikes around. Having changed my cycling technique completely after a … Continue reading A blog worth reading
Why you, yes you, should cycle
Cycling offers numerous benefits. It gives the body a fast and energetic workout. There is a definite shaping, toning and firming of the thighs, the calf muscles and the pelvis region. Fat melts away and is replaced by muscle. Some studies suggest that cycling is one of the few exercises that can help reduce cellulite … Continue reading Why you, yes you, should cycle
Paris-style ‘Boris bikes’ arrive in July
London’s promised “revolution in cycling”, based on the Paris velib bike-hire network, will begin on 30 July, Boris Johnson will announce today. Londoners and visitors to the city will be able to pick up and drop off one of 6,000 hire-bicycles at 400 locations across the centre of the capital. The scheme, originally proposed by … Continue reading Paris-style ‘Boris bikes’ arrive in July
Fitness basics: Turbo training
I have said it before but now is the time to get the turbo trainer out. There is not a good day’s weather in sight and I am starting to feel sluggish and the need to get out on the bike. So this is probably the next best thing. I am reposting an article here … Continue reading Fitness basics: Turbo training
Beginner technique: Five common cycling mistakes
(BikeRadar http://www.bikeradar.com/fitness/article/beginner-technique-five-common-cycling-mistakes-22915) If you want to be faster and more confident on your bike, it’s not just a matter of putting the miles in and getting fitter. You also need to think about good technique and preparation. Simple mistakes can cost you valuable time and effort on the road or the trails, but with a … Continue reading Beginner technique: Five common cycling mistakes
World bike bog snorkelling championships
Biking through a muddy bog wearing lead weights isn’t exactly what most people like to do with their weekends. But for some people the World Mountain Bike Bog Snorkelling Championships is a must-do event. In the Powys town of Llanwrtyd Wells, cyclists ride along the bottom of a 6ft deep peat bog wearing a mask … Continue reading World bike bog snorkelling championships
Cycle away from stress
By Matthew Barbour, Cycling Plus Whatever the reason for your cycling, one thing’s for sure – your two-wheel habit can be as good for your state of mind as it is for your body. “Cycling is one of the most effective treatments for stress and in many cases has been proven to be as effective … Continue reading Cycle away from stress
Health and Fitness Benefits of Cycling
The following article is courtsey of NHS Choices Cycling is the third most popular sport in the UK with an estimated 3.1 million people riding a bike each month. The number of cyclists in London has increased by 91% since 2000, according to Transport for London (TFL). As a form of exercise, cycling has broad … Continue reading Health and Fitness Benefits of Cycling
Weather puts off female cyclists
Probably not exactly earth shattering findings! More than a fifth of women in London choose not to cycle because of the weather, a survey has shown. The poll by sustainable transport charity Sustrans showed 22% of women cited the poor climate as a reason they did not regularly use a bicycle. About 10% said they … Continue reading Weather puts off female cyclists
Inspired Urban Cycling
Not that I would recommend getting round town like this, but this guy does some incredible stuff. It’s a video of/by Inspired Bicycles – Danny MacAskill. Wonder how many broken bones he got learning this stuff.
Riding a bike is everything to a cyclist
“Riding a bike is everything to a cyclist. The friendship and camaraderie you have with other cyclists …to a cyclist, it was the be-all and end-all of your life.” Tommy Godwin, double bronze medal winner in the 1,000m time trial and the team pursuit in the 1948 Olympics in London
Zen and the art of bicycling
‘A Zen teacher saw five of his students returning from the market, riding their bicycles. When they arrived at the monastery and had dismounted, the teacher asked the students, “Why are you riding your bicycles?” The first student replied, “The bicycle is carrying this sack of potatoes. I am glad that I do not have … Continue reading Zen and the art of bicycling
Cyclist in council pothole payout – About time Local Authroties were made to pay
Cyclist in council pothole payout A cyclist who suffered broken ribs and other injuries after riding over a pothole in Berkshire has been awarded £7,600 in compensation. Ian Davis, 49, was cycling along the B4000 between Lambourn and Newbury when he came off his bike in 2006. A county court ruled West Berkshire District Council … Continue reading Cyclist in council pothole payout – About time Local Authroties were made to pay
How to talk to non-cyclists
Rule 1: Understand their bizarre world view.. You need to understand that non-cyclists don’t realize that cycling is the most important thing any person can be doing at any given moment at any point in the universe. Non-cyclists’ eyes – and minds – are shuttered, leaving them to believe that things like friends, community, work, … Continue reading How to talk to non-cyclists
Tips for becoming a roadie
By Elden Nelson, The Fat Cyclist Oh those silly roadies! (Tim de Waele) As a mountain biker, you have no doubt noticed an entirely different kind of rider from time to time: the road cyclist. You have probably heard that many pro mountain bikers train on the road, due to the improved power, stamina, and … Continue reading Tips for becoming a roadie
How cycling makes you younger
By Joe Beer Have you ever thought that cycling could be making you younger? Think about it. Perhaps your riding is helping you beat the clock, holding back the years and giving you a chronological advantage. But on the other hand, if you don’t treat yourself well, cycling could be adding a few years to … Continue reading How cycling makes you younger