Mavic Zxellium shoes.
When you think Mavic, you generally think wheels, right? Well, that's changing with the introduction of Mavic's clothing and shoe lines a couple years ago, and it provides yet another option in a sea of great shoe choices. The real question is, what sets the Zxellium apart from every other shoe out there? After riding them for more than a year, it's time to explore just what makes these shoes work, and what needs a little extra work.
[dc]S[/dc]ince I posted about various climbing positions a couple of weeks ago, there has been some interesting questions and some interesting discussion on the idea of changing your climbing position.
Specifically, some questions were posed as to why we slide backwards on the saddle. Or why do we switch positions (or should we switch positions) regularly on a climb?
Well, let's get a little deeper into that, shall we?
Fourth of July brings fireworks, barbecue, beer and of course heat. The sun is high in the sky, temperatures are soaring and humidity is stifling, especially when you're out riding. Staying cool in the hot sun will not only make your ride more enjoyable, but it will make it safer as well. Following a few simple rules can keep you rolling in the hottest conditions.
A few posts back we talked about different positions to make your climbing more effective. This time around, we're going to talk about the intangible side of going uphill: the psychological and physiological side of things.
Climbing is tough, there's no question about it. But what makes a great climber? Ask that question on an internet forum and you'll get all manner of answers from “high power to weight ratio” to “they like to suffer” to “some people just are.” All are good, legitimate answers, but it doesn't help you if your goal is to not get dropped on the Saturday group ride or to set a personal best going uphill. Fortunately, just like any other aspect of cycling, you can practice and improve your climbing, which will make your days in the saddle that much more fun.
Since I last posted about Honey Stinger's energy waffles I've been throwing around the idea of making the good old stroopwafels in my own kitchen. Let's face it, Honey Stingers are great, but when a case of them costs about 25 bucks, it can be a pretty expensive ride food to stock in your pantry. So a little googling, a little researching and a little trial and error later, I've managed to create something that not the same as Stinger waffles, but is pretty damn tasty in its own right. And just because I'm a nice guy, I'll even share the recipe I settled on so you can recreate them in your own kitchen.
