This page will be updated to show how the kit (that I have been kindly provided by my forward thinking sponsors) works and develops. But please be assured that if it's on here, then it is a cracking bit of kit. I, my team mates and Rob the manager, would not compromise our abilities to complete the WC2C, The Hobbits' Tale Guinness World Record™ and 7DS with equipment that we don't fully believe in.
Please re-visit this page and see what I'm using; at the extreme ends of their design parameters.
If I would buy, or in most cases already use it, and it will aid the rides, then it will be on here. You get my drift. For me, there is no point in having "Free" or "Highly Discounted" gear if it's something that you wouldn't normally use. It helps with being impartial when asked about equipment.
I really liked last years' bike, but from an endurance, efficiency and aesthetics point of view the Blur just blows it away. It's silky sleek lines and stand out graphics make this a real eyecatcher.
It's really quick, agile and somehow plush at the same time. A comfortable out and out race bike that revels in the feast of scary, steep and technical riding on offer in my local area? I don't get it but am happy to ride it!
The Osprey Packs are a real deviation from the norm in mountain biking. I have a couple of different sizes, and must admit to liking them both. Remember, we asked for these. The hydration bladders are, without doubt, the best: Easy to clean, easy to use, and the gnatty magnetic catch works a treat without you having to look down and find it after having a drink. Nice soft straps means that they are comfortable for those who have plates and old fracture sites on their shoulders. Ahem. It's probably a design plus that a lot of folks will no doubt consider at some point.
These are my cranks of choice. I have a few sets but my favourites are the K-Type triple chainset with scandium bottom bracket and bolts. This is lighter than the XTR variation and as stiff as you like. They are on all my race bikes and a couple of my fun bikes, too.
Their appearance is slightly different to all of those currently available from other manufacturers, as is that of their stems, seatposts, seatclamps and jockey wheels. This alone sets them apart from other manufacturers, until you see how light, strong and well engineered they are.
I count myself as very lucky to have the support of Infinit Nutrition since it has revolutionised my race feeding strategy. For the past few years I have been racing on a liquid diet since it is easier for me to metabolise than solid food (like most people). I've also struggled with my salt levels at some races, being hospitalised once with cardiac issues because of Hyponatraemia. My medical and surgical history mean than I can't absorb salts well compared to most people. At one point I struggled to metabolise 500ml of fluid per hour and if I tried to take any more than that (even 100ml) then I would look just like one of those little peeing cherub statues. But with Infinit I can now drink a litre per hour and still have no problems with my waterworks or stomach. This leads to the new phenomenon of my being able to cut down at night when sweat rates reduce. But it seems that you don't have to if you don't want to. Just keep going with 552 calories per hour! I still can't get my head around that.
This is a fully bespoke product, which does introduce an element of risk: Well, it would if it didn't come with a no quibble money back guarantee. Use the online interview or take advantage of their consultation service and they'll develop your drink for you. If it doesn't work then they'll redo it or refund. It took us a couple of goes (one remake) to get my drink right, and if my needs change then I just need to ask them about it and they'll sort me out.
If they can sort me out, then they can sort anybody out. There is no chance that I'll be going back to normal drinks.
It's BESPOKE FOR EVERYONE although they do have stock drinks, too.
Remember to use the code "24ormore" and you'll get £5 (or the Euro equivalent)off of any order.
If you've read my blog then you'll realise how much I love the Satmap. It's awesome, period. I've taken to riding with it in a plastic bag on it's bike mount, because I don't like getting it dirty. It is designed to get dirty, mind you, but it's really worth treating this little puppy with relish and respect.
Plan your route directly enroute, on the Satmap, or modify it whilst you are actually out and doing something grown up and gnarly. You don't need a computer, but if you have one then you can use any .gpx compatible mapping software suite and plan it, then export it to the Satmap using the Satsync software. There is also an on-line mapping page, licensed by Satmap which means that you can plan your journey on-line and share it.
It works and constant updates means that it continues to reflect changing market needs.
It can get a satellite lock on in my lounge and I can then navigate to the kitchen and back again!
The screen is huge, and this is a real and very functional plus. It's easier to read a 1:50000 in detail on this, than it's paper original, such is the quality of the screen and data!
Remember, you can actually use it and change the routing whilst on the move.
Try that on the other makes; the other ones that don't have full OS mapping. You can also change the batteries without losing data halfway through your ride. Genius.
I couldn't have done the WC2C without the help and ready reckoning capabilities of the Satmap unit. I love it even more, now. At the seasons' end now, and it's time to start using her again to recce "The Double". I am looking forward to it.
I don't do any competition or challenge rides without these for upper or lower body.
At Sleepless in The Saddle 2009, I was stood on the start line ready to wreak havoc on my body and the course in front of me. A team rider shouted to his mate (right by my ear) that I was going to roast alive in my Skins since it was a warm day. Poor guy: Once you try them, you'll realise that they help stabilise your temperature and this also means that you need to change less as the temperature changes through the day and night, if you are a non-stop rider.
As muted above, these high grade compression garments always raise a point of conversation when you are training or racing.
I once spent half of my clinical life prescribing patients with similar garments, so I know and believe the basic science behind them. This scientific and evidence based backup is only just catching up with the designers, but I believe the next 5 or so years will show an increased understanding of proprioception and "economy of movement" for want of a better term, when using skins.
On the first day out, I went for my normal 3hr ride using the sweet spot (just below lactate accumulation). These rides are good for building aerobic base but are quite taxing. I'm lucky to be able to do these quite early on in the training season. I got to three hours and felt really good, so kept going, since my next day was messed up due to the impending Christmas celebrations. I stopped after 4hrs 30mins. My legs felt great, until 2 days later. I had wringed the life out of my legs. Don't get carried away on the bike when you start wearing them. You need to treat them as a training aide, and take it slowly!!
After a couple of days active recovery I did the same ride again without the skins...
...3hrs and I was creamed. My quads felt like Popeye's.
The recovery tights are my favourites though. I put them on after each workout and vow to take them off after a couple of hours. I keep forgetting. But, when you realise that they are there, you recognise the gentle compression. It's this that is helping to facilitate the natural muscular pump action to clear away any workout detritus. You forget that they are on because they are so progressive in their smoothly applied compression.
Super comfortable.
You probably don't realise how much of a beating your upper body takes when you go for a ride on the mountain bike, so try this.
Ride one day for ages and ages over loads of cross country and trail centre terrain. Think about your arms as you are hammering down the hill. They sometimes feel a bit like bingo wings, don't they? Your triceps are flapping about as you hang onto the bike and loads of microshocks are traveling up your arms, through your elbows to your shoulder girdle. The next day your arms and shoulders/traps are a bit tired, tight and ache a bit when you get on the bike.
I used to suffer from a tight left rhomboid after a bike ride.
Next time, you ride, try wearing skins sleeves or a long sleeve top. I've done both now, and the difference on day 2 is major. It's like shock absorbers for your arms and shoulders.
No aching in the upper body, and that's after 270km of riding this weekend.
I'm off out to buy some for my partner, because she doesn't believe me! Physios, eh?
Update (20/07/09)
I'm still using the skins, and my rhomboid problem is gone. We have also received some white Skins, which suits by pale blue skin nicely.
Jo is now convinced by skins and has bought a few tops.
I will be sticking with skins.
Jo is still loving hers. Everyone comments on how femine the styling is on her tops, but nobody says I look hot in mine![/red]
This is the simplest little gadget, and one of the most effective.
It's easy to remove and reapply and cleans really easily either on the bike, or off.
The best bit?
It's cheaper and lighter than any mudguard system I've ever used and is more effective.
So it's no wonder we see these on a growing number of downhill bikes, and the time is ripe for us to use them on xc bikes.
Check out the photos on the WC2C Gallery. My relatively clean face, after 22 1/2 hours of riding through ice and mud, shows how effective the Neoguard is.
The idea of the equipment on this page is to make our challenge that little bit easier.
I've raced motorcycles for years, in the past, and used a few of these on my road and also my track race bikes. Obviously the motorcycle version is a bit different, but the theory is exactly the same.
This little baby oils the chain, without your having to stoop and do so, after taking the oil bottle out of your backpack (and spilling stuff everywhere in the process). All you have to do is "squeeze the squid," and your chain cleans and oils itself.
The best bit? When full, it still weighs less than a small chain lube bottle.
It's a no-brainer.
25 minutes is all it took to fit.
There will be photos along at some point to show the difference between my chain and my mates, after long rides.
This unit functioned flawlessly on the WC2C (7DS4).
This has been the single most interesting thing to people when they look at my posh bike.
"What's that?"
My chains have lasted twice as long as normal, as have the chainrings. But the simple fact that the chain stays serviceable and relatively clean throughout a muddy 24hr race, and I still don't have to stop to oil it, is testament in itself.
For 30 quid, you can't say no, really. Try one.
Jo has them on her bikes now, as she is impressed with how clean my chain stays.
Due to the ergonomicaly shaped grips that I use, I find that un-padded gloves work the best for me.
Up steps the Raji Glove, in white of course. Easy to pull on and off, well vented and soft. The main feature for me, apart from the softness and comfort, is the towelled thumb area used for wiping noses etc. There are no hard little bits of plastic to catch you unawares.
Comfortable hands for the whole of the WC2C, and my nose wasn't cut to bits after all that time of wiping the icicles off of it at night. I think these are the smartest gloves out there, otherwise I wouldn't have asked for them.
Season end: I have more of these on order, for one good reason. They are great gloves with a lovely palm and lightweight protective back.
I don't need to say much about these. They sell themselves, as people ask about them on every ride or race. I like them so much I bough a few more sets, so Jo could use them.
We have 2 sets of MaxxD and 4 Joysticks now, with the added benefit of the great little piggyback battery.
That's belief in a product!
Obviously I much prefer to use my bespoke "7ds" lights which have my name etched in them.
Nice!
Please re-visit this page and see what I'm using; at the extreme ends of their design parameters.
If I would buy, or in most cases already use it, and it will aid the rides, then it will be on here. You get my drift. For me, there is no point in having "Free" or "Highly Discounted" gear if it's something that you wouldn't normally use. It helps with being impartial when asked about equipment.
Santa Cruz Blur XC Carbon and Osprey Packs
It's really quick, agile and somehow plush at the same time. A comfortable out and out race bike that revels in the feast of scary, steep and technical riding on offer in my local area? I don't get it but am happy to ride it!
The Osprey Packs are a real deviation from the norm in mountain biking. I have a couple of different sizes, and must admit to liking them both. Remember, we asked for these. The hydration bladders are, without doubt, the best: Easy to clean, easy to use, and the gnatty magnetic catch works a treat without you having to look down and find it after having a drink. Nice soft straps means that they are comfortable for those who have plates and old fracture sites on their shoulders. Ahem. It's probably a design plus that a lot of folks will no doubt consider at some point.
KCNC
These are my cranks of choice. I have a few sets but my favourites are the K-Type triple chainset with scandium bottom bracket and bolts. This is lighter than the XTR variation and as stiff as you like. They are on all my race bikes and a couple of my fun bikes, too.
Their appearance is slightly different to all of those currently available from other manufacturers, as is that of their stems, seatposts, seatclamps and jockey wheels. This alone sets them apart from other manufacturers, until you see how light, strong and well engineered they are.
Infinit Nutrition
This is a fully bespoke product, which does introduce an element of risk: Well, it would if it didn't come with a no quibble money back guarantee. Use the online interview or take advantage of their consultation service and they'll develop your drink for you. If it doesn't work then they'll redo it or refund. It took us a couple of goes (one remake) to get my drink right, and if my needs change then I just need to ask them about it and they'll sort me out.
If they can sort me out, then they can sort anybody out. There is no chance that I'll be going back to normal drinks.
It's BESPOKE FOR EVERYONE although they do have stock drinks, too.
Remember to use the code "24ormore" and you'll get £5 (or the Euro equivalent)off of any order.
Satmap
If you've read my blog then you'll realise how much I love the Satmap. It's awesome, period. I've taken to riding with it in a plastic bag on it's bike mount, because I don't like getting it dirty. It is designed to get dirty, mind you, but it's really worth treating this little puppy with relish and respect.
Plan your route directly enroute, on the Satmap, or modify it whilst you are actually out and doing something grown up and gnarly. You don't need a computer, but if you have one then you can use any .gpx compatible mapping software suite and plan it, then export it to the Satmap using the Satsync software. There is also an on-line mapping page, licensed by Satmap which means that you can plan your journey on-line and share it.
It works and constant updates means that it continues to reflect changing market needs.
It can get a satellite lock on in my lounge and I can then navigate to the kitchen and back again!
The screen is huge, and this is a real and very functional plus. It's easier to read a 1:50000 in detail on this, than it's paper original, such is the quality of the screen and data!
Remember, you can actually use it and change the routing whilst on the move.
Try that on the other makes; the other ones that don't have full OS mapping. You can also change the batteries without losing data halfway through your ride. Genius.
I couldn't have done the WC2C without the help and ready reckoning capabilities of the Satmap unit. I love it even more, now. At the seasons' end now, and it's time to start using her again to recce "The Double". I am looking forward to it.
Skins
I don't do any competition or challenge rides without these for upper or lower body.
At Sleepless in The Saddle 2009, I was stood on the start line ready to wreak havoc on my body and the course in front of me. A team rider shouted to his mate (right by my ear) that I was going to roast alive in my Skins since it was a warm day. Poor guy: Once you try them, you'll realise that they help stabilise your temperature and this also means that you need to change less as the temperature changes through the day and night, if you are a non-stop rider.
As muted above, these high grade compression garments always raise a point of conversation when you are training or racing.
I once spent half of my clinical life prescribing patients with similar garments, so I know and believe the basic science behind them. This scientific and evidence based backup is only just catching up with the designers, but I believe the next 5 or so years will show an increased understanding of proprioception and "economy of movement" for want of a better term, when using skins.
On the first day out, I went for my normal 3hr ride using the sweet spot (just below lactate accumulation). These rides are good for building aerobic base but are quite taxing. I'm lucky to be able to do these quite early on in the training season. I got to three hours and felt really good, so kept going, since my next day was messed up due to the impending Christmas celebrations. I stopped after 4hrs 30mins. My legs felt great, until 2 days later. I had wringed the life out of my legs. Don't get carried away on the bike when you start wearing them. You need to treat them as a training aide, and take it slowly!!
After a couple of days active recovery I did the same ride again without the skins...
...3hrs and I was creamed. My quads felt like Popeye's.
The recovery tights are my favourites though. I put them on after each workout and vow to take them off after a couple of hours. I keep forgetting. But, when you realise that they are there, you recognise the gentle compression. It's this that is helping to facilitate the natural muscular pump action to clear away any workout detritus. You forget that they are on because they are so progressive in their smoothly applied compression.
Super comfortable.
You probably don't realise how much of a beating your upper body takes when you go for a ride on the mountain bike, so try this.
Ride one day for ages and ages over loads of cross country and trail centre terrain. Think about your arms as you are hammering down the hill. They sometimes feel a bit like bingo wings, don't they? Your triceps are flapping about as you hang onto the bike and loads of microshocks are traveling up your arms, through your elbows to your shoulder girdle. The next day your arms and shoulders/traps are a bit tired, tight and ache a bit when you get on the bike.
I used to suffer from a tight left rhomboid after a bike ride.
Next time, you ride, try wearing skins sleeves or a long sleeve top. I've done both now, and the difference on day 2 is major. It's like shock absorbers for your arms and shoulders.
No aching in the upper body, and that's after 270km of riding this weekend.
I'm off out to buy some for my partner, because she doesn't believe me! Physios, eh?
Update (20/07/09)
I'm still using the skins, and my rhomboid problem is gone. We have also received some white Skins, which suits by pale blue skin nicely.
Jo is now convinced by skins and has bought a few tops.
I will be sticking with skins.
Jo is still loving hers. Everyone comments on how femine the styling is on her tops, but nobody says I look hot in mine![/red]
Neoguard
This is the simplest little gadget, and one of the most effective.
It's easy to remove and reapply and cleans really easily either on the bike, or off.
The best bit?
It's cheaper and lighter than any mudguard system I've ever used and is more effective.
So it's no wonder we see these on a growing number of downhill bikes, and the time is ripe for us to use them on xc bikes.
Check out the photos on the WC2C Gallery. My relatively clean face, after 22 1/2 hours of riding through ice and mud, shows how effective the Neoguard is.
Scottoiler
The idea of the equipment on this page is to make our challenge that little bit easier.
I've raced motorcycles for years, in the past, and used a few of these on my road and also my track race bikes. Obviously the motorcycle version is a bit different, but the theory is exactly the same.
This little baby oils the chain, without your having to stoop and do so, after taking the oil bottle out of your backpack (and spilling stuff everywhere in the process). All you have to do is "squeeze the squid," and your chain cleans and oils itself.
The best bit? When full, it still weighs less than a small chain lube bottle.
It's a no-brainer.
25 minutes is all it took to fit.
There will be photos along at some point to show the difference between my chain and my mates, after long rides.
This unit functioned flawlessly on the WC2C (7DS4).
This has been the single most interesting thing to people when they look at my posh bike.
"What's that?"
My chains have lasted twice as long as normal, as have the chainrings. But the simple fact that the chain stays serviceable and relatively clean throughout a muddy 24hr race, and I still don't have to stop to oil it, is testament in itself.
For 30 quid, you can't say no, really. Try one.
Jo has them on her bikes now, as she is impressed with how clean my chain stays.
661
Up steps the Raji Glove, in white of course. Easy to pull on and off, well vented and soft. The main feature for me, apart from the softness and comfort, is the towelled thumb area used for wiping noses etc. There are no hard little bits of plastic to catch you unawares.
Comfortable hands for the whole of the WC2C, and my nose wasn't cut to bits after all that time of wiping the icicles off of it at night. I think these are the smartest gloves out there, otherwise I wouldn't have asked for them.
Season end: I have more of these on order, for one good reason. They are great gloves with a lovely palm and lightweight protective back.
Exposure Lights
We have 2 sets of MaxxD and 4 Joysticks now, with the added benefit of the great little piggyback battery.
That's belief in a product!
Obviously I much prefer to use my bespoke "7ds" lights which have my name etched in them.
Nice!