Thursday 24 May 2012
Tour of the Reservoir - Bike TLC with team Rapha Condor Sharp
Above is a recent video taken at The Tour of The Reservoir. This gives you a small insight into final preperation for the race.
Wednesday 16 May 2012
Pedros Tutto
I have been using the new chain tool from Pedro's for over 2 months now. It has been used constantly within that time because we change chains very often indeed.
What attracts me to the item is its attention to detail. If you need one chain tool to do a numerous amount of different chain types then look no further. Indeed there are prettier chain tools on the market but the Pedro's Tutto ( meaning all types/ everything in Italian ) has the perfect balance between function and form in my opinion.
Yes the price is a little expensive, at £95 RRP, but considering the Campagnolo chain tool retailing around £150 the Pedros Tutto is a bargain .
The Pedro's Tutto is well built and offers a solid interface for the chain pin to be implemented.
With the capability of all chain tools in one very tidy package the Pedro's Tutto Chain Tool is very hard to beat. A proud addition to my tool box.
http://www.pedros-europe.ch/Pedros-Europe/Chain_%26_Cassette.html
What attracts me to the item is its attention to detail. If you need one chain tool to do a numerous amount of different chain types then look no further. Indeed there are prettier chain tools on the market but the Pedro's Tutto ( meaning all types/ everything in Italian ) has the perfect balance between function and form in my opinion.
Yes the price is a little expensive, at £95 RRP, but considering the Campagnolo chain tool retailing around £150 the Pedros Tutto is a bargain .
The Pedro's Tutto is well built and offers a solid interface for the chain pin to be implemented.
With the capability of all chain tools in one very tidy package the Pedro's Tutto Chain Tool is very hard to beat. A proud addition to my tool box.
http://www.pedros-europe.ch/Pedros-Europe/Chain_%26_Cassette.html
Tuesday 15 May 2012
A Career in Korea
10ish hours on a plane involved watching several movies and did not involve much sleep. Not that sleep wasn't priority just that I have not found the skill in sleeping upright so waited until fatigue knocked me out. We landed and never have I felt more relieved to be off a plane walking to the baggage carousel with hope of the luggage being there.
We arrived at the first hotel which was at the side of a large shipping port as the veiws below dictate. A little bit of a logistical nightmare but a very nice place to be.
Supporting a race team jet lagged with bike storage 14 floors up with 500 other folk wanting their piece of the lift does have an effect. But like embarking on a journey, with lots of pit falls and obstacles to encounter, once you get there can be the most rewarding of feelings.
Korea is mental and a good mental at that!. Like most places in the world you get different cultures but with all of us connected by the Internet and global social awareness you don't see that much of a difference as it would have been pre- internet time ( if you catch my drift ). The country is amazing and is worth the time involved getting there. Culture is still there in abundance but lots of cash injection from a thriving economy a new culture is being born.
When you get off the beaten track you really see how amazing this place is. The land is mostly privately owned with family temples built into hillsides with landscaping and stone arcitecture. On the flip side the new Korea is very Americanised, to an acceptable degree,with one of the favourite sports being Baseball ( no Nascar ). The people are really friendly with a relaxed attitude - my cup of tea!
On with the race and the first few days it was like racing through a building site. As with most cycling events sponsored by local councils. With the booming economy most of these are still under construction. The remaining stages were around the south of the country which was my favourite part with well establishes roads meandering through excellent mountain passes leading to beautiful places like Gumi.
On these days I saw how strong our team was with attacks being made and led which gave me a bigger respect to the teams capabilities. They showed great style in doing so which to me is a strong factor. On big stage races like these I believe they bring out the character in a rider and this did so in all the team. The impression attracted attention from all opositon that stood up and congratulated the brave and talented.
Aside from the tour using large hotels we were graced with using Love Hotels. These are customary in Korea as traditional families are living in one house so to get down to "business time" can require you to use these facilities. They do make some of them very seedy but that added to the humour of the trip.
On the last day the race charged into Seoul and I charged into being 40 years old so had to make the most of it once the evening came around. The team was attending signing sessions at local sponsors Watts Bikes and then we were treated to a Bulgarian dinner supplied by the propriators. Awesome food,wine and people.
After a long night in Seouls clubs we were ferried to the airport for a pleasureable trip (not) back to the UK.
Korea done but not forgotton. Love ya!
We arrived at the first hotel which was at the side of a large shipping port as the veiws below dictate. A little bit of a logistical nightmare but a very nice place to be.
Supporting a race team jet lagged with bike storage 14 floors up with 500 other folk wanting their piece of the lift does have an effect. But like embarking on a journey, with lots of pit falls and obstacles to encounter, once you get there can be the most rewarding of feelings.
Korea is mental and a good mental at that!. Like most places in the world you get different cultures but with all of us connected by the Internet and global social awareness you don't see that much of a difference as it would have been pre- internet time ( if you catch my drift ). The country is amazing and is worth the time involved getting there. Culture is still there in abundance but lots of cash injection from a thriving economy a new culture is being born.
When you get off the beaten track you really see how amazing this place is. The land is mostly privately owned with family temples built into hillsides with landscaping and stone arcitecture. On the flip side the new Korea is very Americanised, to an acceptable degree,with one of the favourite sports being Baseball ( no Nascar ). The people are really friendly with a relaxed attitude - my cup of tea!
On with the race and the first few days it was like racing through a building site. As with most cycling events sponsored by local councils. With the booming economy most of these are still under construction. The remaining stages were around the south of the country which was my favourite part with well establishes roads meandering through excellent mountain passes leading to beautiful places like Gumi.
On these days I saw how strong our team was with attacks being made and led which gave me a bigger respect to the teams capabilities. They showed great style in doing so which to me is a strong factor. On big stage races like these I believe they bring out the character in a rider and this did so in all the team. The impression attracted attention from all opositon that stood up and congratulated the brave and talented.
Aside from the tour using large hotels we were graced with using Love Hotels. These are customary in Korea as traditional families are living in one house so to get down to "business time" can require you to use these facilities. They do make some of them very seedy but that added to the humour of the trip.
On the last day the race charged into Seoul and I charged into being 40 years old so had to make the most of it once the evening came around. The team was attending signing sessions at local sponsors Watts Bikes and then we were treated to a Bulgarian dinner supplied by the propriators. Awesome food,wine and people.
After a long night in Seouls clubs we were ferried to the airport for a pleasureable trip (not) back to the UK.
Korea done but not forgotton. Love ya!
Normandy Raid
After over 60 years since the Armies of England marched onto the sands of Normandy a brave bunch of youngsters headed up by a few greyer haired ( or not so ) followed in a more friendlier fashion to show these Euro types how a bike should be ridden.
The boat over was a level or 2 above what our ancestors would have endured but I am sure if they were around today they would have something to say about the early morning call from the ship's staff... I tell you!
After being thrown off the boat we headed over to a Cafe or Restaurant ( 2 French words) and attempted to eat flaky pastry and drink rediculously small cups of coffee. Our stomachs were teased and onwards to our hotel we drove.
The usual method is by one team car ( Skoda- super rapid- Superb ) Soigneurs Van ( Ford - not so rapid - Transit) and the team van ( VW - get out of my way fast- Crafter). We tend to travel in convoy and try not to loose each other as 3 Sat Navs are never alike.
We reach the hotel and first thing for me is to locate power for the team van along with water to fill the washing machine and to connect the hose for bike washing. This has to be done with military speed to ensure you do not get infiltrated? by other teams.
After the madness of unloading we get the bikes ready for the lads to ride asap as hours sat in cars does nothing for race legs so needs are a must.
So on with the first stage which was a short time trial. So short I would have done another lap for the sake of putting my kit on. 2 mechanics were on this trip so we took turns in taking the back seat of the car while our team manager, trained by Nigel Mansell, tested the capabilities of German/Scandinavian engineering, which to me is one of the reasons I like this job. You can be on the edge on sharp descents, corners etc.
Aside with all the riding though you learn that one the differences between the French and the English is that they look with their hands and not their eyes. Not good if you need to keep the bikes shiney.
The next day the team was back on their standard race bikes for a long day in the saddle. The roads are tough in Normandy and the competion was fierce with a fast pace and was a serious test for any pro rider. We were lucky with the weather too as this race can be rife with strong cold winds carrying rain and hail. It was graced with sunshiiiiine! and was a joy to work on.
With us travelling from one hotel to the next we took turns in driving the transfers and wish I took more pictures but need to find a camera that I can use whilst drving ( the search continues). Normandy really is a nice place and would recommend it as all the holes have been filled in from the war so no danger of falling down one.
After many days in the saddle ( 8 in total ) the riders and staff headed back to the boat for a kip on a shelf ( believe me) then a quick dash for home.
If you need any more info on the race try http://www.tourdenormandiecycliste.fr/
The boat over was a level or 2 above what our ancestors would have endured but I am sure if they were around today they would have something to say about the early morning call from the ship's staff... I tell you!
After being thrown off the boat we headed over to a Cafe or Restaurant ( 2 French words) and attempted to eat flaky pastry and drink rediculously small cups of coffee. Our stomachs were teased and onwards to our hotel we drove.
The usual method is by one team car ( Skoda- super rapid- Superb ) Soigneurs Van ( Ford - not so rapid - Transit) and the team van ( VW - get out of my way fast- Crafter). We tend to travel in convoy and try not to loose each other as 3 Sat Navs are never alike.
We reach the hotel and first thing for me is to locate power for the team van along with water to fill the washing machine and to connect the hose for bike washing. This has to be done with military speed to ensure you do not get infiltrated? by other teams.
After the madness of unloading we get the bikes ready for the lads to ride asap as hours sat in cars does nothing for race legs so needs are a must.
So on with the first stage which was a short time trial. So short I would have done another lap for the sake of putting my kit on. 2 mechanics were on this trip so we took turns in taking the back seat of the car while our team manager, trained by Nigel Mansell, tested the capabilities of German/Scandinavian engineering, which to me is one of the reasons I like this job. You can be on the edge on sharp descents, corners etc.
Aside with all the riding though you learn that one the differences between the French and the English is that they look with their hands and not their eyes. Not good if you need to keep the bikes shiney.
The next day the team was back on their standard race bikes for a long day in the saddle. The roads are tough in Normandy and the competion was fierce with a fast pace and was a serious test for any pro rider. We were lucky with the weather too as this race can be rife with strong cold winds carrying rain and hail. It was graced with sunshiiiiine! and was a joy to work on.
With us travelling from one hotel to the next we took turns in driving the transfers and wish I took more pictures but need to find a camera that I can use whilst drving ( the search continues). Normandy really is a nice place and would recommend it as all the holes have been filled in from the war so no danger of falling down one.
After many days in the saddle ( 8 in total ) the riders and staff headed back to the boat for a kip on a shelf ( believe me) then a quick dash for home.
If you need any more info on the race try http://www.tourdenormandiecycliste.fr/
Tuesday 28 February 2012
Feedback Sports Pro Elite Bicycle Repair Stand
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For many years now we have used the Feedback Sports Pro Elite Repair Stand (Modelled by Pete Pedro Fowler). With its lightweight and ease of assembly the stand has shone above all its competitors.
We use this frequently with its reliable and easy to use clamping mechanism. No more Repetative Strain Injuries from awkward clamping methods and the quick release system works effortlessly without fault.
With airline companies charging more for extra weight this stand is the perfect travelling mechanics partner For the mechanic that wants a stand that looks amazing with the lush red annodise finish and performs even better then look no further than the Feedback Sports Pro Elite.
Feedback also have many other repair stands that are also the best in the field with accessories including tool trays and tough carry bags that are essential for storage or travel.
http://www.2pure.co.uk/Feedback-Sports-Pro-Elite-Repair-Stand
For information on where to purchase this item contact info@2pure.co.uk
Saturday 25 February 2012
No Costa in Costa Blanca
Earlier this month we set off on a 1500 mile journey to the Costa Blanca region in sunny Spain. Early start was called for with stops on the way to pick up riders bikes and kit. We drove south will expectations of the weather getting increasingly warmer but our hopes were soon dashed as this was the opposite for most of the way. My request for Pete to bring a copy of The Flight of the Concords musical rendition was indeed a well needed spirit strengthener and made for great banter on route.
After we crossed the channel by use of the Chunnel we headed for Paris with confidence ( not something I usually find myself saying). The height restrictions the Sat - Nav led us into gave us a wake up call as they smashed into the van roof but no damage apart from loss of radio arial. This gave us the only option to dive into Paris head on and immenently immersing us into a sea of traffic and one way streets. We eventually found our way out the madness and the journey continued.
After several fuel stops, Toll passes and a couple of overnight stays in central France we made it through to Benidorm home of winter training cyclists and the senior section of Great Britains population. The Hotel was great with really helpfull staff and a buffet to feed the thousand. Lots of great Spanish dishes to be had like Chips, Sausage, Eggs and Bacon, all the classics.
With a day to get acclimatised to the surroundings we set up camp at the side of the Hotel. Waiting for the Team to arrive and get fitted onto their new bikes for the year. This included Time- Trial bikes too so lots to do.
After a couple of days of tweeks to riders bikes we took turns in following the Team on their training rides which took them into the local hills in the area Col De Rates and Puerto Tudons.
After we crossed the channel by use of the Chunnel we headed for Paris with confidence ( not something I usually find myself saying). The height restrictions the Sat - Nav led us into gave us a wake up call as they smashed into the van roof but no damage apart from loss of radio arial. This gave us the only option to dive into Paris head on and immenently immersing us into a sea of traffic and one way streets. We eventually found our way out the madness and the journey continued.
After several fuel stops, Toll passes and a couple of overnight stays in central France we made it through to Benidorm home of winter training cyclists and the senior section of Great Britains population. The Hotel was great with really helpfull staff and a buffet to feed the thousand. Lots of great Spanish dishes to be had like Chips, Sausage, Eggs and Bacon, all the classics.
With a day to get acclimatised to the surroundings we set up camp at the side of the Hotel. Waiting for the Team to arrive and get fitted onto their new bikes for the year. This included Time- Trial bikes too so lots to do.
After a couple of days of tweeks to riders bikes we took turns in following the Team on their training rides which took them into the local hills in the area Col De Rates and Puerto Tudons.
The Team settled into training well and all the new riders gelled into their roles with the help of the more experienced riders James McCallum and Dean Downing. It is amazing how strong these guys are and only do you realise this when you look at the cars speedometer. With the strong leadership of John Herety I am sure these guys will be reaping the rewards in 2012.
With the absense of the usual high street coffee shops we had a hard job finding a decent cup but when we did we made the most of it. With rural Cafe's with majestical views it made the late nights keeping the bikes tip top all that more motivating. Satisfaction guaranteed!
After 2 weeks of sun we decided enough was enough and made our way back to the UK. The road trip is an amazing one with lots of vast countryside and awe inspiring architecture.The Millau Bridge and the roads leading to and from are the best I have experienced yet and will be glad to drive again and again.
With an overnight stop in Le Caylar and then through to Calais we made it back to the UK in 2 days. The roads are a sharp contrast from France to the UK and driving north through the country took a fair bit of time as you may expect. If you can make it to sample the driving over in France and Spain you will find it hard to return. Something I am thinking about for the future.
Monday 6 February 2012
First Trip of the Season
After completing my contract with my previous employers I started at Service Course for Rapha Condor Sharp on the 1st February 2012. Leaving Scotland behind and heading south was a hard decision indeed but the prospect of new horizons and working with the best people in the business made the transition that little bit easier. The last blog update was a quick visit to pick up the kit for the season over the Christmas period but a longer journey was in store for me and my new colleagues.
Throughout this week I have been introduced to many professionals in their field, although I know my way around a bike and believe in myself a great deal in this area, getting tuition from an expert in a certain aspect of cycling is no doubt a great benefit indeed. I have been taught by the best to do a job for a very respected team and am looking foward to the coming year.
The first trip of the season for me is to the Training Camp in Spain and will be sharing driving duities. This trip is the first for me but the second for the team so far this year. Getting to grips with procedures will be main priority and communicating with the riders also. This will give me an insight on team dynamics and will play in a big part in overall success.
Throughout this week I have been introduced to many professionals in their field, although I know my way around a bike and believe in myself a great deal in this area, getting tuition from an expert in a certain aspect of cycling is no doubt a great benefit indeed. I have been taught by the best to do a job for a very respected team and am looking foward to the coming year.
The first trip of the season for me is to the Training Camp in Spain and will be sharing driving duities. This trip is the first for me but the second for the team so far this year. Getting to grips with procedures will be main priority and communicating with the riders also. This will give me an insight on team dynamics and will play in a big part in overall success.
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