Road Rash!

Epic Crash in the Men's C Colorado College Criterium (photo by Aaron Schlachter)

Ugh! Nobody likes going down on a bicycle. Although the stories are usually epic, the aftermath of a crash can lead to some extremely painful situations.

Just this past Sunday, I was racing a road race at the US Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. Descending with the peloton, me and another rider simply collided into each other and we both spilled to the pavement at over 30 mph! I think the other rider, now my nemesis, came out fairly un-scaved because he hopped back on his bike and chased down the group; however I was down for the count for a couple of minutes. We both finished the race though, in all astonishment and we didn’t break any bones! A feat for crashing over 30mph in my book!

However, the “road rash” as one would call it, is quite unbearable still today. Road rash, I believe the correct term for both road and mountain bike wrecks, is a term for an abrasion of the skin. Pending on how bad you wreck the abrasion will remove the epidermis layer of the skin, but will leave the dermis layer intact. I unfortunately have scrapped both of the layers off, also known as a severe abrasion.

The reason why road rash can be extremely painful is because the nerve endings are exposed. Until the abrasion scabs over, you can be in a great deal of pain for quite a while. I’m working on 5 days currently, and it is still as painful as the first day

As with any open wound injury, it is very important to clean out the wound. You want to remove all of the dirt, asphalt sand, rocks etc. from your road rash.  You want to make sure that you keep the abrasions clean since it is very easy for the wound to get infected, which is never a good thing. If you are bleeding or discharging heavily from the road rash, it is probably a good idea to invest in good gauze pads to cover the abrasion when you need to. I bought some off brand ones and when removing the gauze left behind some layers! It was not fun trying to pick it out

Hopefully in time, the wounds will begin to heal, you will be able to maneuver around and hopefully be able to hop back on the bike in no time!

For more information about abrasions aka road rash an article that I found can be followed here:

For those who are hardcore or want to keep riding after some epic road rash here is a link to some remedies to keep the road rash in its place during race time Dealing With Road Rash

Bicycle Racing 101

Beginner Collegiate Womens B Field Lining Up for the Start of U of Wyoming Race

Yay! It is finally spring! And bicycle races are going in full swing.

Nothing beats the adrenalin rush you can experience in a bicycle race. A fast pace, all out endurance (or for you sprinters a leisurely stroll in mid pack) type of venture. And best part of it all is that anyone can enter, beginner through expert!

Now I know what you are thinking. I am not physically fit enough, strong enough, safe enough, experienced enough, or crazy enough to do a bike race. Well I am here to put you straight and say that you all are! And once you do, you will want to do more

Bike races of all types, Mountain, Road, Cyclocross, Track, BMX etc. have all types of levels in which you can compete. In any given organization, such as USACycling, American Cycling Association (ACA), or other held cycling promoter, will have rider ability levels assigned per category. For USACycling and ACA categories are divided between beginner, intermediate, expert and pro levels (usually ranked by numbers).

But due to the different rider ability levels per category, you will be competing with other riders who are around your physical ability level. This means you won’t get crushed by legendary pros in your bike race.

In my career of bike racing, I have seen beginners who have never raced a bike before finish 1st in several races (mountain and road events!).

It might be a good idea to check out with locals (bike shop, other riders etc) to see which race courses are great for beginners. Some courses can be significantly less technical than others, thus making the event much more fun for a first timer (aka noobie!)

There may even be bike races on trails and roads that you already ride currently on! Best way to find out about races is to search online, local bike shop, USACycling.org or AmericanCycling.com. There are many documented races around the US and many more non-affiliated local races within communities. For those of you in the Fort Collins area, New Belgium puts on every spring a short track Mountain Bike Race Series on their property and every fall a cyclocross Bike Race Series. It is fairly low-key and is almost secretive to the cycling community, but is probably some of the best short track/cyclocross series I have done.

And who knows, many of these race venues provided prizes for the top 3 winners and sometimes even the participants! Who doesn’t like free swag!

So hop on your bike and find a few local races in your area. You won’t regret it!!

Red Light Green Light

A few days ago I randomly stumbled on a youtube video which I thought was funny and quite informative about bicycle safety.

The video was created by Sean Kennedy as a PSA for bicycle safety in NYC.

The PSA was created to create awareness to cyclists in NYC. The message they wanted to communicate was that stop means stop. In previous years, there was a large rise in the number of bicycle accidents in Manhattan from cyclists who ran or rolled through stop lights. I am almost certain that the bike messengers in this next video can show you why!

The video was created by Lucas Brunelle circa 2004

Well you either learned that traffic in Manhattan is horrendous or that bike messengers are stone cold crazy! I’ve done both and can tell you there both insane! But  now you know why cyclists can have such a bad rap in a community.

Granted the two videos, I believe, show the two extremes of what to do at a traffic signal or stop sign. Obviously a red light or stop sign should require a cyclist to at least slow down if not to come to a complete stop. Blowing through a red light as the bike messenger video is reckless and just asking for an emergency room visit. But by exerting extreme caution cyclists should have the right to yield when approaching a traffic signal or a stop sign.

Reasons behind having cyclists having to yield to right of way traffic is that cyclists rely solely on pedal power. It takes a lot of exertion in order to propel a bicycle from stop to traveling speed. By requiring cyclists to yield, they are able to still maintain motion thus do not have to exert as much energy to regain travel speed. Unlike a vehicle where the person driving is not exerting any force besides pushing the gas pedal.

There are several states looking into the Idaho Stop Law. The Idaho Stop is when a cyclist is permitted to yield at stop signs instead of having to come to a complete stop. The law has been on the books in Idaho since 1982 and has worked quite successfully since. States currently considering the law are Oregon, California, Montana, Arizona and Virginia.

Some more information on the Idaho Bike Law can be found here.

Although cyclists would be able to yield through a stop sign, cyclists would be required to make a complete stop at a red light and wait for a green light to signal.

I believe that the Idaho Yield Law is a great start to allow cyclists an easier commute/ride when riding on the roads. However, I do believe that cyclists should be able to yield or proceed through a stop light after stopping. Light signals can be tricky for cyclists because they are not large or sensitive enough to trip censors to signal the light for a green light. This usually causes come frustration between cyclists and causes them to blow through traffic signals with little regard to cross traffic.

I think that a law should allow cyclists to cross a signalized light upon a complete stop in the same way cars can make a right turn on a red signal. This would help cyclists get to where they are going more conveniently. By writing a law into effect, this will reduce the cost of having to retrofit traffic signals to be compatible for cyclists and will allow cyclists to make the proper judgement of whether to yield through an intersection or to come to a complete stop.

And of course, if you are not comfortable yielding to stop signs and traffic lights, you always have the option to come to a complete stop.

Remember Safety is ALWAYS important! But by allowing cyclists these “right-of-ways” can make the system much more efficient.

Also, unless you are in Idaho, these laws are not on the books. Bicycles are treated in most states as a motor vehicle by law. So make sure you “stop” at stop signs and “stop and wait” at traffic signals. For now!

Introduction to Mountain Biking

As a mountain biker fanatic (you probably wouldn’t tell from reading my blog from start to finish) there are a multitude of trails for the mountain bike fanatic. Across the US, you are sure to find some sort of local stomping ground that is home to wonderful sections of mountain bike trails. For me, and I’m sure for others, my goal is to try to ride all of them. Trust me, I still got a long ways to go!

But for the beginners (aka noobs) in mountain biking, how is one to introduce the sport to others? Surely you don’t want to throw them into the most technical part of the trail and expect them to enjoy it. It takes time; time to build up valuable skills, knowledge and abilities in order to master the technical parts of the mountain bike trail. One would assume that experienced riders would not take beginners out on the advance part of the trail, but I have seen it time and time again.

Similar to the introductory road cycling article that I wrote called “Joy to the Newcomers” it is best to start off beginners on an easy, flat or rolling trail. Jeep roads are a great way to start off, since it provides lots of space for a beginner to get used to riding a mountain bike.

In the middle of the introductory ride, throw in a few wrenches. Mountain biking is all about trying to conquer the section of the trail. Put in a singletrack, small technical section or climb. Gauge on how they liked the section. If they loved it — ramp it up a bit in difficulty. If it was too sketchy for them, then take them back down until they gain confidence. Then take them back to the same location to retry again. A great motto I’ve said time and time again is ” if at first you don’t succeed, try, try again”! I’ve always gained a great sense of accomplishment when I conquer a part of the trail when in the past I fumbled over. I also gain a good feeling when descending a trail, so make sure you put in plenty of good downhill sections!

The great thing about mountain biking is that there are usually trails marked for all types of difficulty; from easy (green circles) to advanced (black diamonds). There are a handful of trails that don’t have difficulty markings; so it is best to scout an area before bringing a noob to try out the course.

Before long, you will have them hooked into the sport of mountain biking. They will be doing bunny hops, jumps, wheelies and of course endo’s soon enough  

If your reading this and want to get into the sport, my one piece of advice is to go out there and experience mountain biking for yourself. Ask the locals or local bike shops to see which trails are the best. They will be able to tell you which trails are the easiest, most challenging, fun to ride etc. Mountain biking is all about experimenting, so head on up to your local trailhead and start riding.

Of course if you are unfamiliar to an area, try to obtain a map before hitting the trails. Usually maps are provided at the trailhead; if not a local bike shop should have a local trail map for the general area.

And as always, wear a helmet.

Before long, you will want to conquer all of the trails just like me!

Colorado State Rams Sweep Home Race Weekend

Men's A Field near Military Science Bldg

After the cancellation of Saturday’s races, the Colorado State University Rams were energized for racing first thing Sunday Morning on their home turf. And the results were spectacular!

The criterium course, hosted since 1986, starts in the historic oval, makes a loop around the Military Science Building, then back into the oval.

Riders raced around the course for an extended amount of time + 5 laps. Beginners raced up to 25 minutes and the Experts raced up to 50 minutes. Advanced race about 40 minutes. Ranging from about 8 laps to 18 laps.

The Rams in the Men’s C (beginner) field swept 1st – 5th place.

In similar fashion the Women’s B (beginner) race took 1st, 3rd – 5th place.

The Men’s B (advanced) race, the CSU Rams were able to place in 3rd and 5th places.

In the Men’s A (Expert) race, the Rams were able to place 1st, 4th and 5th.

(results are still pending upon posting)

It was an action packed day for Colorado State Rams Cycling Team. After the results from Sunday’s race they are expected to lead the Rocky Mountain Collegiate Cycling Conference (RMCCC).

The Colorado State Rams Cycling Team is a student run organization managed by the Sports Clubs and Recreation department at Colorado State University. The Colorado State Rams Cycling Team is a Division 1 club and competes in division with other D1 and D2 schools in the RMCCC. The RMCCC comprises of colleges and universities located in Colorado and Wyoming. Rams Cycling is currently ranked 4th overall in the nation.

For complete racing details throughout the season you can check out the following sites:

Colorado State University Rams Cycling Team Homepage:
ramscycling.com

Rocky Mountain Collegiate Cycling Conference Homepage:
RMCCC.org

USA Cycling Homepage:
USACycling.org

VeloNews Collegiate News Tab:
VeloNews.com

Caley Fretz, president of the CSU Rams Cycling Team and journalist for VeloNews, contributes weekly articles to VeloNews with race results and current standings. His article from the CSU Rams Cycling “Need For Speed” Race Weekend can be found here: CSU Reigns during weather-shortened weekend in Colorado

Colorado State “Need For Speed” Race Weekend

If you are craving for some early racing action this coming weekend, come on up to Fort Collins, CO for some criterium racing.

The Colorado State University Rams Cycling Team is hosting the
Need For Speed Race Weekend! d

Saturday’s Races 3/20 has been canceled due to inclement weather

Sunday the team will be hosting the Classic Oval Criterium around CSU’s main campus. A tradition that has been held around the oval since 1986.

Collegiate races will start in the morning and USCF category races start in the afternoon, starting with a 4/5 cat race at 1pm. For more information see the link above which leads to the flyer or go to ramscycling.com for more details and directions.

Happy Riding!

The Squeaky Chain

It is indeed one of the worst sounds a bicycle can make. It is almost like scraping your fingernails across a chalkboard! It’s the Squeaky Bike Chain!

I’m sure you have all experienced it or have heard of someone with one. Having a squeaky bike chain is an easy fix, with the right chain lube, and can extend the life of your bike chain twofold.

Before cleaning your bike chain, you should make sure your chain is still useable. Not rusted, stretched out or broken links. If your bike chain is, it is probably best to buy a new bike chain and then lube your chain. If your bike chain is just squeaky, grimy and dirty follow these following steps.

First, if you haven’t lubed your chain in a long time, it is probably a good idea to degrease your chain. You will know if your chain needs a degreasing if you touch your chain and you get a chain tatoo. The most common spot to get a chain tatoo is on your right calf (also called the rookie mark). If you don’t feel like having a rookie mark for the next couple of days, use a cloth and wipe your chain. If your rag is black and greasy, then it’s probably time to degrease your chain.

There are many products out there to degrease your chain. What you don’t want to do is use a chain degreaser that is not formulated to degrease a bike chain (engine degreaser etc.) Using stronger degreasers can remove all of the grease in the bike chain which will create friction in spots where friction is not needed thus reducing the life of your chain. You can find bike friendly degreasers in your local bike shop or online vendor.

Once degreasing your chain, you can then apply a chain lube. There are even more products out there to lube your chain. Pending on the riding conditions and region of where you live will determine what type of chain lube you should put on. Living in the rocky mountain region, or other dry climate areas, you can use a wax lube. There are wet lubes, synthetic/oiled lubes etc. for different type of riding and weather conditions. Ask your local bike shop to see what lube works best for your area.

You can apply the lube directly to the chain and then wipe off the excess. Then there you have it! A nice clean and properly lubricated chain! Pending on your riding habits and conditions you would want to reapply (not necessarily degrease) as often as a couple of days to 2 weeks. More frequent will keep your chain cleaner and will keep the wear and tear of your bike chain to a minimum however.

All bike shops provide chain lubes in their shops. The most common lube, and the one I use the most, is White Lightning. Their products work really well. Some other notable companies with bike lubes and degreasers are Park Tools, Tri-Flow and Pedros.

White Lightning's wax based chain lube

The Ways of the Road

A designated bike lane on road

Biking on the roadways can be a cumbersome feat to some cyclists. Sharing the roadway with motor vehicles can be a frightening experience for new cyclists, especially if the roadway does not have a bike lane or wide enough shoulder. But is it safer to ride on the sidewalk than it is to ride in the road? Should you ride on the wrong side of the road for better visibility? These are some of the arguments and misnomers beginner cyclists encounter; but I am here to set them straight! That’s what CyclingNoobie is for

In the weeks to come, I will be addressing some of these issues:
This week’s issue.

Riding your Bike on the Sidewalk vs. Road

It is a common misnomer that riding your bike on a sidewalk is a lot safer than riding your bike in the roadway. Cyclists think that while on the sidewalk, you are away from the flow of traffic – thus less likely to get hit. In actuality, sidewalks are probably one of the worst places to ride your bicycle. Vehicles are less likely to see you when riding on the sidewalk and have less time to react than if you were out in the open street. Biking on the sidewalks also presents a harmful scenario between cyclists and pedestrians as well. 

By biking in the roadway, you can be seen by motorists who are on the main roadway as well as sidestreets where vehicles would be turning in and out from. Some staggering statistics of crashes between cyclists on sidewalks vs cyclists on roadways can be found just by searching google. Here is one of them: Bicycle sidepaths: crash risks and liability exposure

I am one of those advocates who strongly suggests that biking on the sidewalks, unless you’re a child in a residential neighborhood being watched over by parents, should be avoided if possible.

One blog I found talks about her walking trips in Philadelphia where cyclists are riding on the sidewalks – The Daily Dish. Her side of the story is that all cyclists should use the roadways and never ever use the sidewalks.

In an online article, a writer in Washington DC suggests that riding on sidewalks is an option that cyclists have in order to avoid hazardous situations – TheWashCycle.

What is your view on the situation? Do you think riding on the sidewalk is tolerable or should be banned at all costs?

Racing Season Around the Corner

Colorado State University Womens A Team getting ready for a criterium in Fruita, CO

Can you believe it? It’s the end of February and the racing season is right around the corner! It has been an extremely harsh winter I’m sure for most of you if you have been outside riding on your bikes this winter. Then adding school or work, maybe both, on top of reduced daylight hours; it can be downright unbearable.

Over the past weekend however, I was able to ride around on my mountain bike around town with the recent snowfall that fell in Fort Collins, CO. Relating back to the article I wrote last week, I have to say, it was a blast! I did have to dress extremely warm, however, in snowpants and full ski gear (no spandex for that trip!!)

Back to the topic at hand though, I want to know from you all how your training has been going. Has it been easy, difficult, fun, cumbersome etc. Or if you’re a recreational cyclist or bike commuter, how has your winter riding been? Are you hardcore riding everyday or still haven’t scrapped off the muck from the fall! 

Go ahead! Don’t be shy. I’d be happy if even one person comments

Ski Bike – The New Sport in Cycling

Winter is still in full swing, with record cold and snowfall totals still stacking up. Whether or not you’re a winter enthusiast or pessimist, I’m sure we can all agree that these weather conditions are not ideal to be riding in to get from point A to point B, but it can be an awesome experience.

Out of curiosity though, I was looking on YouTube for people riding their bikes in the snow and I came up upon some videos about snow biking; looking for videos like this one:

But a majority of the videos I found on YouTube are similar to this one:

Ski Bike (there’s also the snowboard equivalent) is where you take the frame of a bicycle and instead of having wheels, you place skis under the front suspension and rear triangle of the bike. There are many different forms of ski and board bikes. From what I could research, there appears to only be a handful of manufacturers making ski bikes. A majority of the bikes are homemade by individuals. Which of course questions safety concerns, but as long as your suited up in downhill (DH) gear, it would appear to be a safe sport. I think this is a creative way to ride a bike during the snowy winter months.

The best thing about a ski/board bike is it appears you can ride in any snowy condition; powder, packed, ice etc. All you would need to do is find a ski hill (any ski resort presumably) and ride on down the hill.

In the first video, Snow-DH-Trailer by madmikeaut, the first minute of the video shows the riders crashing into the powder at the end of the run. Later in the video, the bikers are riding on packed snow, which provides a smoother and easier ride (notice the sleds in front of the riders!)

Whereas in the second video, Skibiking Slo-Mo by lenzsportbikes, it appears you can ski on powder. If the rider in the first minute of the video pulled up on the handlebars after the first powder jump, he might of been able to land the jump.

Ski biking has the mentality of DH biking and BMX biking; pending on whether your gutsy enough to try to do midair tricks!  Ski biking certainly has the adrenalin rush of regular biking, however it probably does not have the physical endurance one would get from pedaling; unless of course you push the bike back up the ski hill!

Ski biking could be the next up and coming sport to hit the ski slopes within the next couple of years. If it does take off, I will indeed be one of the first to give it a try! Who knows, it may even one day be considered an Olympic Sport!!

– wishful thinking; I know