2013 march bp interactive

7/22/2019 2013 March BP Interactive

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BYPETERJ. M ARSH

Late last year [2011], on a Sunday morning with the

rain hammering against the window, I decided to hold off

on my daily ride and do something else cycling-related.

I decided to pull out a box lled with th e bike stories I

had saved from the 1990s and began throwing out the

faded reports of long forgotten rides and races, includ-

ing some I had written myself. I came across the story

I wrote 20 years ago about my rst big trail ride, over

Steens Mountain in Southeast Oregon via the 9,500-foot

summit ridge.

It was called The Road to the Top and appeared in

Bicycle Paperin the summer of 1992. This is how it began:

The highest road in the Pacic Northwest doesnt lead to

a ski resort or the crest of the Cascades. Its found in the

SE corner of Oregon, in distant Harney County. Its here

that a 60-mile long fault block called Steens Mountain

rises a vertical mile out of the prairie. On the west side,

this huge wedge of rock angles gradually upwards for

26 miles, then plunges 5,000 vertical feet to the Alvord

Desert basin to the east.I hadnt read my story or thought about this remote

area since the 90s, but I was soon ashing back to that

epic day on the infamous 66-mile Steens Loop, where

signs warn regular cars to turn back! Today we dont go

anywhere without checking the web rst. As soon as I

had nished the story, I Googled Cycling the Steens

to see how many ride logs or comments would show up.

Among the numerous accounts of driving the summit

road I found just one by a cyclist written in 2007 about

a three-day ride with a car shuttle for camping gear.

So it seems that this remote area is as far off the map

for cyclists now as it was 20 years ago, and still waiting

to be discovered. From Portland, it is a 300-mile drive

over the Cascades and across the dry featureless prairie

before reaching the lush green of the Malheur Lake

Wildlife Refuge. There you get your rst glimpse of the

towering landmass that is the Steens. As you get closer

to the settlement of Frenchglen it starts to dominate the

skyline, rising out of th e prairie like a mirage....

I can still recall the sense of wonder as I set up my

tent at the foot of the mountain in the Page Springs

Campground. There was also the astonishment that

I was there at all, because it was really an accidental

adventure. When accepting the invitation to join my

friends on this trip, I didnt even own a mountain bike.

I searched around and quickly found a very basic and

used steel Fuji a couple of weeks before departure date.I had only ridden it around town a few times before

the trip. Back then, I had been training all year for the

STP, which I managed to cover in ten hours, so I was

VetBikes.org Wants Your PaBYCAILEYNICKERSON

Everyone has reasons for getting

on a bike. Maybe its the love of dirt,

or rallying a skinny-wheeled road

bike in a club ride or race to feed that

need for speed. Perhaps its the desire

to get back in shape after an injury or

maybe just a way to get from point A

to point B. Regardless of the reasons,

when it comes down to it we all bike

for the same simple purpose: there is

no substitute for the self-propelled

freedom that comes from riding.

In July 2012, Air Force veteran and

casual cyclocross racer Andy New-

man decided to build on his passion

for cycling to help those in need. The

result was VetBikes.org, a project of

The Veterans Family Fund of America,

a 501(c)3 nonprot organization that

builds bikes for military veterans who

in one way or another have foundsolace through cycling. In only six

months, they have built more than16

personally tailored bicycles, most

valued between $1,000 and $1,500, for

recent medically discharged soldiers.

Newman says th

Armys Warrior Transi

a group t hat facilitate

wounded soldiers retur

inspired him initially

is one of many that util

a physical and mental th

for active servicememb

oftentimes once soldiers

discharged theyre on t

unfortunately many do

resources or funds to co

An avid cyclist fo

life, Newman says tha

surveyed his garage

how much equipment h

over the years. I looke

thought, I could build t

all this. He adds that as

the Army, he saw rstha

that war has on retur

These guys need a co

why not the bicycle comNewman started

by rst rallying friends

a former Marine and

SEE VETBIKES.OSEE STEENS MOUNTAIN ON PAGE 8

BYELLENK. C HOW, MS, RD, CSSD, CD

Pregnancies are without a doubt

one of the most special times in life.

By the time a woman missed her men-

struation she is four weeks pregnant.

That means most pregnancies are

conrmed between four to ten weeks,

when remarkable fetal developments

have taken place. A study, which

reviews the answers of 158 pregnant

women in a series of three question-

naires, implemented eight weeks

apart regarding their beliefs about

exercising during pregnancy, showed

that exercise generally decreasedin amount and intensity during the

child-bearing period. Participants

cited reasons such as feeling tired, lack

of time, and concerns over safety as the

main contributing factors1. However,

although some precautions should

be observed, women can maintain a

PG 3

A quick read filled with

information. Jill read it, liked

it, and tells you why.

HOLY SPOKES!

PG 4

Does its length and shape

really impact your steering

and comfort?

CARE ABOUT STEMS?

Although it t

planning to co

shouldnt keep y

bike.

RIDING WITH

PG 5

42 YEARS OF CYCLING COVERAGE BICYCLEPAPER.COM MARCH 2

COMMUNITY

HEALTH

The author nonchalantly poses next to his rigid steel Fuji mountain bike at the summit of Steens Mountain more than

20 years ago. Photo courtesy of Peter J. Marsh

FREE!

SEE PREGNAN

Biking for the Mom-to-Beregular exercise regime

period of their life. Th

dresses the basics of pren

and health concerns for c

healthy pregnancies.

It goes without sayi

pregnancy is unique.

general, healthy weight

tant and the staff at the

recommends 28 to 40 lb

weight women, 25 to 3

mal weight women, an

for overweight women

weight gain is recommen

and multiple births. Co

general public, avid cycdifculty in reaching tho

to signicant energy ex

well as healthy eating h

other hand, it is not u

athletes without weigh

VOL42ISSUE1

Riding the Steens Mountain Loop

The Highest Road in the Pacific Northwest


2/16

The Grand Tour GreatsQ1. The double Giro/Tour de France victory is frequently mentioned and has been achieved

most frequently duri ng a one-year period by a top s tage race rider. However, the Tour de

France/Vuelta double is the most rare combination and has occurred only twice. Who

did it and when?

Q2. As everyone would guess, Belgian Eddy Merckx has indeed won all three Grand Tours.

However, four other riders have accomplished this remarkable feat during their careers

as well. Can you name the others? Hint: Merckx was not the rst to succeed here.

Q3. The Giro/Vuelta double has been accomplished only three times, once by Merckx andmore recently by Alberto Contador. The other man who claimed this achievement did

it when only four days separated the two events. Of note, he was not scheduled to ride

the Giro, but his exceptional form in Spain spurred his bosses to play his card and he

won one of the closest Giros in history. Can you identify this man whose name adorned

the down tube of his own teams bicycles as soon as he retired?

Q4. Three riders incredibly achieved a double during a year of remarkable form, only to

have those triumphs be the sole Grand Tour victories of their careers. Who are they?

Hint: All occurred in the last three decades.

Q5. Who has stood on the most Grand Tour podiums? Hint: It is, surprisingly, not

Eddy Merckx!

Answers on page 15

Recent events have re-shaped the record book a bit, particularly with regards to the Grand

Tours. Lets celebrate the achievements in the three-week stage races and take a look at...

Dave Campbell has been writing race trivia

since 1992. He began racing in 1982 in Wyoming,

moving to Oregon in 1987. Af ter years of racing

triathlons, he returned to his roots as a co mpeti-

tive cyclist, now racing in the Masters category.

Dave is a high school scienc e and health teacher

and cross-country coach in Newport, Ore.

2 - Bicycle Paper March 2013

TRIVIA RACING NEWS

NEWS

Officials of the Year

BC Bike Races $10,000 Video Contest

Bicycle Transportation Alliance BikeSwap

Regional Talent ID Camps

Studley, Butler and Wagner

Claim Rainbow Jerseys

USA Cycling announced its 2012 Ofcials

of the Year and James Abbott from Skykomish,

Wash., was named the Motoref of the Year,

recognizing his excellent work in many national

and international races such as Exergy Tour,

Cascade Classic, Tour of Utah and both Master

BC Bike Race is stoked to announce a video

contest with a prize purse totaling more than

$10,000 dollars. This comprehensive weeklong

vacation includes seven days of riding sweet

singletrack with the legendary Wade Simmons.

The winner will also get a brand new ride from

Rocky Mountain Bicycles and multiple partners

are stufng the package with almost everything

else that could conceivably make this holiday

prize the Ultimate Singletrack Experience!

Just in time for the cycling season. The BTABikeSwap is scheduled to run concurrently with

the PDX Bicycle Show on March 23-24 at the

Portland Expo Center. The event is an excellent

opportunity for new cyclists and families look-

ing to upgrade or acquire bikes and purchase

cycling gear at reasonable prices. Bikes, trailers,

tools, parts and accessories will be available

for viewing online prior to the show to help

prospective buyers in their search for the per-

fect item. A two-hour rst choice VIP period,

USA Cycling is hosting 13 nationwide Tal-

ent ID Camps designed for female and male

athletes racing ages 14 to 22 years. The North-

west Camp, based

out of the beautiful

campus of Pacic

University in For-

est Grove, Ore.,

will run from July

28 to August 2,

2013. Participating

riders will be over-

seen by some of the

most experienced

coaches in theUnited States as

well as profession-

als who specialize

in working with younger athletes, giving them

the skills and condence to become great riders.

Attendees should have some racing experience.

Cost is $750 for the week and includes room,

board and all instructional fees. Early discounts

are available. All riders need to be current USA

Cycling members.

For the rst time in its 60-year history, the

UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships were

presented outside of Europe as Louisville, KY.,

hosted the event in 2013. Races were run in

muddy, wet and cold conditions. In the Masters

womens 30-34, Kari Studley (Bothell, Wash./

Redline) had to deal with some pre-race jitters,

having to switch bikes while on the start line,

before claiming her rainbow jersey ahead of

two other Americans, Brianne Marshall and

Andrea Wilson. In the Womens 40-44 categor y,

Susan Butler (Portland, Ore.) took the lead

from the start and never looked back to grab

the World Champion title 38 seconds ahead of

Kristin Weber from Boulder, Colo., and Linda

Sone of Minnesota. The third Northwest rider

and Collegiate Road Champions

tion, Tom Gentry from Seattle an

from Boise, Idaho, were named

of the Year by the Washington

Association and the Southwest I

Association, respectively.

Submit your unique handcrafted video

describing why you are worthy of this prize.

Extra points will be given for humor, creativ-

ity and originality. Submissions must be sent

to [email protected] by March 25, 2013.

Those who make the nal cut will move on to an

online voting process, hosted on the BC Bike Race

YouTube channel between March 27 and April 5.

The winner will be announced on April 8, 2013.

For more details visit bcbikerace.com.

reserved exclusively to Bicycle TransportationAlliance (BTA) members, will launch the swap-

ping activities on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon.

Memberships can be purchased in advance by

going to btaoregon.org or at the event.

Sellers can either purchase a table to sell

their gear during the show, put their items on

consignment and let BikeSwap sell it for part

of the prots, or donate them to BTA as a tax-

deductible charitable contribution.

For more bikeswap.pedalnationevents.com

The Washington State Racin

(WSBA) will provide scholarshi

of riders from Washington State

details an

mation ca

wsbaracin

Cycling a

nancial s

set the cos

and/or tr

the Develo

dation Gr

For more

visit usacd

S e v e rWorld Tou

the Pacifi

got their

Cycling Talent ID Camps. Throu

and the exposure to Internation

in the Juniors or U23s, they hav

onward and upward. Follow thei

by going to usacycling .org. Fo

mation, email camp manager J

([email protected]) or call 503-

to bring home the

top honors was

James Wagner of

Auburn, Wash.

He won the Mas-

ters 70+ category

ahead of British

rider John Ginley

and New Jerseys

Joe Saling. Robin

Willard from Vic-

toria, BC, grabbed

the bronze in the Mens 65-69 c

Bremerton, Wash., resident Loga

line) was four seconds off the

podium pace, taking 4th place.

Kari Studley.

Pro cyclists in the maki ng.Photo Amara Edwards / Wheelsinfocus.com
http://www.redspoke.org/http://www.dugganbikelaw.com/


3/16

M a r c h , 2 0 1 3

Volume 42 Number 1

Publishers Jay Stilwell

Ryan Price

Associate Publisher Claire Bonin

E d i t o r i a l

Editor Claire Bonin

Assistant Editor Darren Dencklau

Writers Claire Bonin

David Campbell

Ellen K. Chow Darren Dencklau

Katie Hawkins

Maynard Hershon

Joe Kurmaskie

Cailey Nickerson

Peter J. Marsh

Dan Towle

Jill Von Buskirk

Photographers Debbie Baker

BC Bike Race / Dave Silver

Chrome Industries

Amara Edwards /

WheelsInFocus.com

Greenlite Heavy Industries

/ Mike McGuffin

Helen Greenwell

Peter J. Marsh

Sawtooth Century /

Dev Khalsa

Seattle Bike Supply

A r t a n d P r o d u c t i o n

Design and Production Amy Beardemphl

Rick Peterson

Graphics Intern Joanna Gorham

Printing Consol idated Press

A d v e r t i s i n g

Contact Darren Dencklau

Claire Bonin

Phone 206-903-1333

Toll Free: 1-888-836-5720

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

D i s t r i b u t i o n

Distribution & Mailing Seattle Publishing

Bicycle Paper is published 8 times per year fromMarch to November by Seattle Publishing. Subscriptionis $14 per year; $26 for two years.

68 South Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104Phone: 206-903-1333 and Fax: 206-903-8565

Toll Free: 1-888-836-5720

All mater ials appear ing in Bicycle Pap er are thesole property of Bicycle Paper. No reprinting or anyother use is allowed without the written permissionof the Publisher or Editor. Unsolicited contributionsare welcome. All manuscript s should be accompa-nied by self-addressed, stamped envelope. Write orcall for editorial guidelines and deadlines. Bicycle

Paper is listed in Consumer Magazine and AgriMedia Source SRDS.

President Jay Stilwell

[email protected]

Vice President Ryan Price

[email protected]

Project Coordinator Claire Bonin

[email protected]

Production Coordinator R ick Peterson

[email protected]

Calendar Powered by

Bicycle Paper

BOOK REVIEW

NEWS

Holy Spokes! A Biking Bible for Everyone

2013 National Poster Contest for 5th Graders

REVIEWBYJILLVONBUSKIRK

At rst glance, Holy Spokes!appears to be

another novelty bike book; the kind you might

expect to see on the front table at Barnes and

Noble between The Zombie Survival Guide

and Wacky Washington. Containing less than

190 pages, this Biking Bible for Everyone is

more of a how-to book for the beginning cy-

clist. That being said, I will gladly admit that

from the introduction on I found it to be a veryenjoyable read. This little book is not only well

written, but its packed full of information and

instruction on bike design and cycling accesso-

ries. Flipping through it youll see pages lled

with drawn pictures, diagrams, and highlighted

fact boxes, all of which add to its approachable

quality. Holy Spokes!tackles cycling as a sport

as well as a means of transportat ion, recreation,

education, and income. In other words, even

if youre a bike acionado, youre sure to nd

some nuggets of gold in this publication.

The rst chapter, A Brief History of the

Bike, gives an overview of bike design, begin-

ning in 1500 with a DeVinci sketch, and the

progression of early European designs in 1860,

all the way through to our 21st century carbon

ber frames. In this opening Rob Coppolillo also

integrates the story behind cycling as a sport,

highlighting some very recognizable names

such as Greg LeMond, Connie Carpenter Phin-

ney, and Andy Hampstead, while showcasing

some less known racers too pioneers in the

sport of cycling. He includes highlights and

details, tells side stories, gives an overview of

500 years of cycling history, and he does this

all in less than seven pages.

Saris Cycling Group, a manufacturer of

bicycle racks and trainers, in col-

laboration with state organizations,

is inviting fth grade students to

create a poster around the theme ofBicycling makes life better. The

purpose of the contest is to promote

youth riding bicycles as a way to a

healthier lifestyle.

Each states top designer will

receive at minimum a bike, bike

light, and helmet. Second and third

places will also be recognized. All

states rst place posters will then be entered

into the national contest where the winner will

be presented wi th a three-day/ two-night tr ip

After the historical introduction, the next

few chapters primarily focus on which type

of bike is best for your lifestyle. There are

detailed yet easily understood breakdowns of

each type of bicycle you can build

or buy, and bullet points specifying

what kind of ride you can expect.

Then, after discovering everything

youll need to know about nding

your ideal bike and t, Coppolillo

covers basic maintenance such aschanging a at, keeping t he cables

and chain lubed, and how to check

suspension fork pressure. He lls

these chapters with tips and tricks

that make it easy to gure out what

kind of ride you want and how to be

as comfortable as possible. For a novice who is

just getting into cycling, these are great sections

to read through.

If you are an experienced rider who already

owns three or four different styles of bikes, these

chapters may not give you any new informa-

tion. Still, they offer a wit and point of view

that only the author could express. And, with

an entire section dedicated to xies (single

speed bikes with no freewheel) and the mes-

sengers who made them mainstream, you may

learn a thing or two about how to perfect that

hipster look youve been trying so desperately

to achieve or avoid.

Being a how-to cycling book is, in part,

what made the remaining chapters of Holy

Spokes!so unique. Normally you wouldnt see

titles such as Saving the Planet, Pinning

on a Number, and Adventure Cycling in

your typical beginners guide. Nevertheless,

for two (including airfare and lodging for the

child and a parent) to the 2014 National

Bike Summit in Washington, DC. In ad-

dition, the victors school will receive

bicycle parking for 20 bikes and a track-ing system called The Hub, which

makes it easy, fun, and educational for

a school to implement a walking and

biking i ncentive program.

Schools who wish to enter must

run the contest at the school level rst

and submit only one design from their

establishment to their state coordina-

tor by April 1, 2013. Entry must be an original

handmade design no collage or computer

graphics allowed.

Coppolillo makes a seamless tr

xing your bike to xing the pla

lists his top ve reasons for why c

sense, the least of which involve

money while simultaneously sav

earth we call home.

What I apprecia

these sections are t

of resources he

someone intereste

of cycling; from c

tour guiding for s

to the best cyclingtime (in his opinio

He sites multiple

that can assist in g

volved at any level,

to inspire a sense

without instilling u

responsibility. Coppolillo speaks

experience and really drives ho

that cycling can be pleasurable a

if you have the passion. By the en

he leaves no room for excuses w

to making the bicycle a part of y

Overall, Holy Spokes! A Bi

Everyoneproved not just to be a

about the basics of cycling, but a

your rst experience with a bike

possibilities of what role the bicy

your life. Its clear that the author

to write the next great cycling nov

chose to share what he loves mo

fully inspire others in the process

is now available in bookstores

may have to look further than th

Holy Spokes! A Biking Bible for

Coppolillo, Zest Books, 5.5 x 7.

paperback, $14.99.

NEWS

HEALTH

ADVOCACY

COMMUTER INF

MECHANICAL TIP

FEATURE ARTICLES

PRODUCT REVIEWS

OPINION & COMMENTAR

YOURULTIMATE

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Please send your payment (US funds only) to Bicycle Paper68 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104

To receive a complimentary

NW Race Guide or NW Tour G

p 206.903.1333 fx 206.903.8

[email protected]

RE A D, RI D E, SU B S C R I B E

SINCE 1972THE NORTHWESTS MOST COMPREHENSIVE

SOURCE OF CYCLING INFORMATION

Coverage of the people, places and products of

Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and British Columbia

THE NORTHWESTS MOST COMPREHENSIVE RI

For more details and a com

rules visit sariscyclinggroup. com

following state coordinators:

Idaho

Idaho Transportation DepartShauna DeMeritt

[email protected]

208-334-8533

Oregon

Bicycle Transportation Allian

LeeAnne Fergason

[email protected] or 50

Washington

Bicycle Alliance of Washingt

Seth Schromen-Wawrin

[email protected] or 206
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4/164 - Bicycle Paper March 2013

MECHANICS CORNER

Reaching for the BarsBYDANTOWLE, R+E CYCLES

When Bicycle Paperasked me to write about

bicycle stems, I wasnt exactly sure where to

start. It seemed like kind of a blas subject, but

what the heck ... Im game. Every bike has a stem

holding the handlebars in place. In my youth,

a lot of us referred to the stem as the goose

neck. They come in many varieties, shapes,

sizes and colors. Older bikes used different

looking stems than found on modern bikes,but the purpose is still exact ly the same ... they

secure the handlebars to the bike.

Before I started writing, I asked Claire [Bi-

cycle Papers editor] what questions she thought

readers may have about this topic. She told me

that some people want to kn ow if one kind of

stem is better than others, or what happens to

the handling of the bike if you put on a different

stem than the one it came with. Will the steer-

ing be n egatively affected? Are bikes designed

to use a specic length or angle of stem? Can

you change the stem when you purchase a new

bike? Onc e I heard those questions, i t dawned

on me that these do get asked frequently, even

here in our shop. So frequently in fact, that I

forgot that there are many who may still not

know the answer.

For this article, lets consider road bikes,

since thats the most prevalent type that we deal

with. Any bicycle with drop-style handlebars

falls into this category.

So will the steering be negatively affected if

you change the stem? I can answer that question

like this: With the proper t, the correct stem will

actually improve your performance. A properly

tted road bike will have the riders hands on

the brake hoods at t heir most comfortable posi-

tion. Riding on the tops of the bars or down in

the drops should be an auxiliary position for

most of us. While riding on top of the hoods,

the hands are spread apart at roughly the same

width as the shoulders and in the same orienta-

tion as if they were hanging to your side. Added

to these anatomically comfortable features, a

proper t sees the riders hands right by thebrake levers at al l ti mes, a nd f or mos t, rea dy

to make an easy gearing change. Your bike and

its components have been engineered toward

this type of t. This is why the brake hoods

are made of soft rubber and designed for the

hands to rest comfortably on them. Its also

why modern manufacturers design shifters that

tie in with the brake levers, so that the hands

are right there when riders need to shift into

a different gear.

The idea of a proper sport t is to treat

the handlebars like the steering wheel of a car.

Everything should be adjusted so that it is easy

to reach the wheel comfortably. Imagine if you

picked your car up from the dealer and the seat

was so low or so far back that you had to pull

yourself up by the steering wheel, shifter or ped-

als driving would be horribly uncomfortable,

and the steering would be compromised, right?

The same is true of your bike. The stem is

an integral part of having your bars in the rightplace based on your arm length, torso length,

exibility, conditioning, etc. If you have the

wrong stem, or the wrong t in general, han-

dling is negatively affected because you may

be riding up on the top of the bars a majority of

the time. This puts your hands in an unnatural

twist that causes unnecessary pain. Riding

this way excessively also puts the hands very

close together and causes neck and upper back

fatigue. With the hands that close together,

control isnegatively affected as well. Think of

it like driving with both hands on the middle

of a cars steering wheel.

Now that you understand how the stem is

closely related to comfort, theres much more

to learn before diagnosing your own problems.

Stem length is just one consideration that

makes up a proper t. There are other aspects

to consider before stem length is adjusted ...

even if the pain is in your hands, shoulders or

neck, without considering the bigger picture,

changing the stem could make matters worse.

In reality, the stem is the last part of a proper

t to consider. If youre uncomfortable while

riding, working with a professional bicycle tter

that has the tools and experience is by far the

best way to x the problem. When searching

for a reputable tter, ask a friend for a recom -

mendation and get a t guarantee, because once

youve paid for this service, you should not

have to pay again if youre still uncomfortable.

Is your bike designed for a certain stem

angle or length? If your bike was custom built,

then the designer created a frame drawing

and included a specic stem length for properpositioning. If your bike was not custom built,

then whoever t you at the store should have

had a good idea regarding the correct length

of stem for you. If no one t your bike, you

would certainly benet by having someone

do it now, especially if youre uncomfortable

or experiencing knee, neck, hand or back pain.

Even on a custom bike, its common to change

the stem after the rider has ridden it for a while.

As conditioning improves, youll want your

t to evolve. An ideal t is a process, so dont

marry the rst stem you get involved with.

If you walk into our shop (R+E Cycles) in

the University District of Seattle, youll see a

wall covered with dozens of stems. We carry

many different lengths, angles, colors, etc., and

we perform many ttings each day, and we

understand that stems are an integral part of

adjusting your bicycle to be comfortable and

perform efciently for your riding style. If you

didnt buy your bike at a shop that employs

tting professionals, chances are you are riding

the stem that came with your bike. Taking it one

step further, chances are you are not getting the

most out of your cycling experience.

In our shop, every bicycle comes with a t

guarantee. Most customers change the stem a

few times over the course of a few months to get

the nal t just right. We do this at no charge,

and thats why we have a wall of stems. We caneasily swap one out to give a slightly different

riding position in just a few minutes.

If your bike was not thoroughly t when

you bought it, its like driving a new car without

ever adjusting the mirrors, seat or steering wheel

when picking it up from the dealer.

The good news is that its possible to get a

t from a shop that specializes in such a thing,

even if you didnt buy your bike from them.

There is a fee involved, and sometimes youll

need to purchase some parts to ge

but any adjustments later on shou

There is one other choice reg

This one is relating to aesthetics

those that want their bike to h

look and it doesnt matter to th

comfortably or not. Im this way

that I collect and hang on the w

bike that I regularly ri de, Im not

about its classic looks. There

that I wanted my everyday bike

professional racer owned it, but

before injuries, age, and wisdom

classic look is important to you to

and wisdom are quickly making

t not so much fun, may I sugge

of classics and an everyday ride

Frankly, I cant tell you in an ar

or how low your stem should b

no chart, website, or formula th

your appropriate stem height/len

only be done in person during a

session. Nonetheless, I hope youthing or two about the purpose an

of your stem and how it relates t

aesthetics, and performance of y

Dan Towle is the owner of R+

driguez). He has been fitting, fix

customizing, selling, and loving b

1970s. He, and his entire staff, ca

R+E Cycles in Seattle. www.rodcy

NOW AVAILABLE!

metalcowboy.com

From the classic quill threaded-sty

the carbon fiber threadless (botto

adjustable type (middle left), stem

a lot over the years. Photos by Seattle
http://www.metalcowboy.com/http://www.metalcowboy.com/http://davidsonbicycles.com/http://www.metalcowboy.com/http://www.bicycleclothing.com/


5/16Bicycle Paper

HEALTH

THE METAL COWBOY

Riding Through Your Asthma

To Live and Die ... in the Saddle

BYKATIEHAWKINS

Pet dander. Pollen. Pollution. Cold weather.

These may cause you to cough, but what you

may not realize is that it could be more than

allergies or a common cold. If you nd yourself

experiencing wheezing, shortness of breath,

chest tightness, and fatigue while exercising,

you may be one of the 300 million people around

the world who suffer from asthma. However,

that doesnt mean you have to avoid riding,

especially if proper precautions are taken.

Asthma is an inflammatory process,

explains Daniel DeMerell, MD, of Allergy,

Asthma, and Dermatology Associates in Hill-

sboro, Ore. Three different things are occur-

ring: constriction of the muscle in the airway,

increased mucus secretion and inammation,

causing obstruction of the lungs. Some may

suffer from chronic asthma, while for others it

may be exercise induced (EIA) both can be

triggered by allergens and cold weather.

The direct cause of EIA and why only

certain people are affected is unknown. Un-

fortunately, [EIA] is under explored, says

DeMerell. However, triggers that induce the

problem have been identied and steps can be

taken to prevent an attack.

Symptoms of asthma, whether chronic orexercise induced, vary from person to person;

but the most common o nes incl ude shortness

BYJOEKURMASKIE

Fitting that I was on my bicycle when I got

the news that Peter and Mary were gone. Their

deaths reached me through a fellow cyclist in

one of those 30-second, on the y exchanges our

community is famous for a bit like insects

transmitting information by rubbing antennas

as they pass. This friend dropped in on my left,

he was riding his Trek Madrone off to some

sunrise group ride, sparking a moment of envyin what remains of my hardcore rider DNA. He

matched pace with my Xtracycle full of boys on

our way to the school drop-off, asked after my

health and family, informed me that two Brits

on a world cycling adventure had been killed in

Thailand, then cut left at the next intersection.

I didnt even bother with my helmet, punch-

ing up the headline to read about the tragedy

from the comfort of our oversized purple

loveseat with all my gear still on. Peter had

emailed me before the start of their adventure

to ask for tips and advice and just to say hed

read my books and that they were out there

of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, coughing,

fatigue, and decreased athletic performance.

Some athletes may cough, perhaps even up

to 30 minutes, after difcult workout sessions

or a race.

A year and a half ago, I began violently

coughing and couldnt stop just at rest, and

not even at exertion. It was abso-

lutely horrible, says Jill Anderson,

an avid cyclist who participates

in the RSVP (Ride from Seattle toVancouver and Party) annually.

However, with the help of a special-

ist, Anderson was able to attain a

low dose corticosteroid and rescue

inhaler, as well as pinpoint her

triggers. Sometimes cold air and

altitude will set it off. With medi-

cation and education, Anderson is

now able to cycle comfortably and

continue to join long rides.

Though Andersons case was

so extreme that she had to seek

medical attention immediately,

some may have lesser symptoms and decide to

put off seeking help. Depending on a persons

type of asthma (chronic or exercise-induced),

as well as the level of activity and triggers,

long-term damage may be a factor.

Chronic asthma can be life threatening,

especially if one has a really bad attack, says

DeMerell. Those who require hospitalization

frequently can cause scarring to their lungs.

Cyclists with only exercise induced asthma will

most likely be ne, but seeing a doctor will help

optimize performance and overall comfort. If

lungs are constantly in a state of inammation,

this irritation could cause a permanent decrease

in lung function over time, and could eventually

lead to chronic asthma.

Michael S. Kennedy, MD, of Northwest

Asthma & Allergy Center in Seattle, Wash., and

participant in the Seattle to Portland (STP) ride

and Trek Tri-Island, suggests seeing a doctor

regardless of the intensity of symptoms.

It is good to make sure there isnt an un-derlying problem, such as a heart condition,

Kennedy says. There is a spectrum of percep-

living their dream. I didnt know them but for

the few email exchanges, still it hurts my heart

that their journey has ended this way.

TELEGRAPH, UK

3:29PM GMT 16 Feb 2013

British couple killed in crash on world

cycling tour

A British couple who have been cycling

around the world have been killed in a crash

in Thailand.Peter Root and Mary Thompson, bot h 34,

set off on a round-the-world adventure in

July 20 11 and had cycl ed through Europe,

the Middle East and China.

The Guernsey couple are understood to

have died in an accident on Thailands notori-

ously lethal roads on Wednesday.

A Foreign Ofce spokesperson said: We

are aware of the deaths of two British nation-

als in Thailand on February 13 and we are

providing consular a ssistance.

On their website, Two on four wheels, the

couple posted a travel journal, photographs

tion in airway obstruction, and some people

would score their symptoms differently.

EIA is best managed when a patient and

their doctor work together to identify, elimi-

nate, and control triggers. Your doctor can help

you nd the most effective preventative and

maintenance medications and form an asthma

emergency plan. Even if you have already been

evaluated, it is important to monitor how t he

medications are working.

If you use an emergency inhaler more than

a few times per week, you may need to add a

daily corticosteroid, such as Pulmicort, remarkboth Kennedy and DeMerell.

Your doctor will determine if you have

asthma by measuring how well you breathe

with a spirometry test, a peak ow meter to see

how fast you can force air out of your lungs,

or an exercise to see how exertion affects you.

EIA is often treated with the same medica-

tions used for a standard asthma diagnosis, but

perhaps at a lower dose, and used only before

and during exercise. The most common medi-

cations prescribed for EIA include short-acting

inhaled bronchodilators (inhalers) that are used

prior to exercise in order to relax and open up

the airway. Other medications your doctor may

prescribe include longer combinations of acting

bronchodilato rs and inhaled steroids (Advair),

mast cell stabilizers (Cromolyn), and leukotri-

ene modiers (Singulair). Some may only need

a rescue inhaler once in awhile, while others

may need daily preventative medication.

People in good shape may not realize

they are limited and can do better if they are

treated, says Kennedy.

He and Dr. DeMerell encourage riders

who may be suffering from symptoms to see

a doctor, and give advice on how to best ride

with asthma:

See a specialist. Meet with a doctor to form a

treatment plan that is best for you. Each asth-

matic is different and may require different

combinations and frequency of medication.

Avoid triggers. Whether it is cold outside,

owers are in bloom, or your route has

some hills, bike during the right season

and in the best location for you. If youride during winter or on chilly mornings,

wear a ventilated mouth cover or breathe

in through your nose. If you

breathing too heav ily up a h

and walk to the top.

Prepare for a ride. If you hav

use it 15 to 20 minutes before e

rides may require you to us

riding with a partner, let them

you keep your rescue inhale

nd yourself using y our rescu

than a few times per week, you m

medication instead. Speak with

Work your way up. Listen

and know your limits. Start ogoing on short rides until y

comfortable at a faster pace a

distances. Warm up slowly fo

before strenuous exercise and

cool down. Perhaps join a spin

up your endurance if it is too

outside. The better physical s

in, the easier it is to tolerate

If you have an attack: Stop a

stay calm. Get away from or

obvious triggers and take yo

medication. Try to slow any e

ing. If symptoms continue,

attention quickly.

Warm up. If you dont have a

nd yourself suffering from

get to an area with warm, hu

to help release constriction

(perhaps by turning on a show

the room steam up). Purse y

deep breaths, and exhale.

Asthmatics are encouraged

exercising, as being in good phys

can actually decrease the possibil

Everyones body is differen

these steps may vary depending

By taking these precautions an

yourself, asthma wont keep you

cal activity.

Everyone can exercise w

whether you are a hardcore cycli

rider, says Helen Greenwell,

Chronic Asthmatic and casual ri

in the 2012 Ride Around the Soun

event for the American Lung Assojust have to prepare fo r it.

For more information, visit a

and short lms from the 23 countries they

had visited.

Mr Root was born in Jersey but grew

up in Guernsey. Ms. Thompson was

originally from Bristol. They met 14

years ago at art college in Falmouth ,

Cornwall.

I wept in my big chair, set aside the

work I needed to do, and got out my

Bianchi, the one that makes me feel

fast and sexy and full of possibilities.

The next hour was spent in the saddle,

pushing uphill through the cemetery,racing down into Tryon Creek Park, then

back along the river. It was cold and a little wet

and I hadnt used parts of my body like that in

awhile, which is to say it was like every time

I get on a bicycle ... all I know of heaven. Ive

been asked if the fear of dying on a bicycle

ever hangs over me, tainting my experiences.

I respond that its not like that. The moment I

push off and start moving on two wheels, Im

home. Its not just where I live, it saves me.

I hope it was something like that for Peter

and Mary. They had their reasons, but I cant

and wont speak for them.

Heres what I didnt say to

asked if fear rides shotgun:

No, I ride for

didnt get away. I r

than a few good ide

ride to get mud in m

of my heart, and be

everybody cheats, b

all of the time. I ride f

old girl murdered fo

two boys she met on

I ride to feel the w

my head, the one thbones hum and ach

and keeps my hopes in place. I r

cant sing like it sounds inside m

to feel my sons cheek against

vibrations of his laughter as we

showers of falling October leave

And today, I rode to be stro

grieve.

Note: Peter and Marys latest l

ing at the 11th Annual Filmed by Bi

in Portland, Ore.

Helen Greenwell ready to ride. Photo courtesy of Helen Greenwell



REVIEWS

Chrome Industries Storm Cobra Jacket One Last Great ThingBYDARRENDENCKLAU

There are different levels of waterproof

needs in the Northwest. Oftentimes the marine

mist coming off the Pacic Ocean prevails

and most any clothing will keep you

relatively dry. However, Mother Nature

isnt always so kind and so she decides to

unleash her wrath whether predicted

in the weather forecast or not.

Thats when extra protection isunequivocal. From my experi-

ence, the difference between

water resistant and waterproof

is drastic, and the former is

only good up to a point, while

the latter is often overkill for

cycling its too warm and

it doesnt breathe, leaving

you drenched in sweat when

arriving at your destination.

Last year Chrome Indus-

tries introduced the Storm

Cobra jacket. Features include

taped construction, a full-width

back pocket, waterproof zips at

the armpits for ventilation, and it

has an ergonomic t designed for

the bodys movement while riding.

Ive pedaled in some of the worst down-

pours Seattle had to offer this past winter and I

can attest to the Storm Cobra being waterproof.

Its thick and repels moisture well. The longer

lengths of the arms keep the cuffs from riding

up and exposing the wrists while the back panel

never worked its way up past my waistline.

REVIEWBYCAILEYNICKERSON

John Burke, President of Trek Bicycle, makes

a promise in the introduction of One Last Great

Thing: to write to the point. Like a good sales-

man, he keeps to his promise as he tells the

story of how his father, Richard Dick Burke,

the founder of Trek Bicycles, made the way he

died one of his greatest feats.

The prologue of the story introduces Burkes

relationship with his father and the inceptionof Trek Bicycles. Starting from a $10,000 loan

granted by his parents and in-laws, Richard

Burke creates a small business

that over the years evolves

into the international, corpo-

rate conglomerate it is today.

After graduating college, John

Burke begins to work at the

company as a traveling sales-

man, and what we see unravel

is the classic American dream

of a businessman who started

from virtually nothing, even-

tually handing the baton off

to his son.

It is apparent from the

beg inn ing that Bur ke s fa-

ther, or The Big Guy as he

calls him, was something of

a renaissance man. Working

in sales, going back to school, then starting

his own company, The Big Guy was a man

unafraid of reinventing himself. Trek, likewise,

experiences a slew of ups and downs, which

Burke documents with unapologetic details.

Though he makes it known that his opinion

sometimes differed from his fathers when it

came to business decisions, he never indulges

the opportunity to write a dramatic story. This

detail, in a sense, reects the personality of The

Big Guy: minimalist and private. As grandiose

as Trek becomes, Burke draws his father as a

man content with a simplistic lifestyle, which

he achieved by giving most of his fortune to

charity. On the other hand, he also describeshim as passionate, wildly ambitious and blunt.

If there were dramatic episodes between father

and son, Burke leaves them out. Rather, what

he chooses to focus on is the matter of fact,

guts-and-guile way his father exited this life.

Burke starts this part of the story at The

Big Guys 70th birthday, when he declares that

he will do one last great thing before he dies.

Though he doesnt know what that last great

thing will be, he claims he has one more left in

As for the negatives, the hood has a ten-

dency to catch air and balloon out behind my

head, making quick glances over the shoulder

difcult. To remedy this, it needs to

be tucked in or cinched down. It is

a very warm jacket, even with the

pit zips, so I found that minimal

clothing underneath worked

best. When I layered up o n

colder days and put on therace face during the com-

mute I would often break

out in a profuse sweat

thats ne for an amateur

wrestler trying to make

weight, but I was

just trying to get to

work. In some reviews

Ive read, people com-

plained about the front

zipper being difcult to

initially latch. I nd that

with a little patience it

works ne.

Overall, the Storm Co-

bra is a nice looking and

simple garment that doesnt

appear bikey. In fact, it is

my go-to for around town, on h ikes, working

outside ... in other words , when I am not riding

my bike. Its safe to say that if its raining hard

and I am in the great outdoors, youll probably

see me wearing it.

MSRP is $200. For more information visit

chromebagsstore.com.

him. The Big Guy goes on to te

honesty, the milestones of his

Trek Bicycles, running the Bosto

divorcing his wife in front of his

and the tremendous amount of

work he accomplished througho

Despite a prediction that he

we get a sense that Burke the fath

end is near. Such a speech begs o

of why now? Why present thof your life at this time if you

more years to live? Perhaps we

is near because

retrospectively. R

purposeful fores

the next chapter

Big Guy has a faul

which needs repla

100 pages take u

surgery, and the

others that follow

for his life.

A very active

Burke makes a di

to his son: if he sho

life support in a ve

then he should p

The rst surgery g

well, until the doc

an infection aro

valve. The next procedure leaves

speak and on life support. Yet ano

may take him off the machines, alt

would be less than active. The de

Burkes as he struggles to decip

his father, someone who has alw

good ght, is nally ready to kic

What John Burke addresses ar

ing emotions one experiences wh

the reality of death, and recogniz

time has come to fulll a promis

a book rich in aesthetics, but it is

story that is both relatable and u

sense of what it addresses. Burke

introduction that One Last Greatread in a night or over the wee

from this readers standpoint, i

estimation. Though the writing

simple and at times bland, the au

in translating his fathers chara

The Big Guy is a man worth re

and Burkes experience with dea

people in his situation can nd s

One Last Great Thingby John

Press, 2012, hardcover 144 pages

Photo Chrome Industries
http://www.bicyclepaper.com/http://www.tacomascrew.com/


7/16Bicycle Paper

COMMUNITY

mechanic and lead sales rep at Seattle Bike Sup-

ply, and Alex Young who used to head sponso r-

ship for United Way of Western Washington. The

three began by soliciting people at cyclocross

races, urging those with extra bikes and parts

to give what they could. VetBikes.org then got

an ofcial booth at all MFG Cyclocross and

Seattle Cyclocross races. Together they impelled

racers and spectators to bring whatever gear

that might have been collecting dust in their

garage to the next event. Although the crossseason is over, their mission continues and to

make it even easier, they will now arrange to

pick up donations wherever and whenever it is

As generous as these gifts are, VetBikes.org

also functions as a continuing support system

for medically discharged veterans.

We cant ask someone on a limited budget

to maintain a $1,500 bike, says Newman. After

receiving a bicycle, the recipient is trained on

maintenance and is encouraged to take it back

to the VetBikes.org team for tune-ups. Puget

Sound clubs such as Cascade Bicycle Club,

Tacoma Wheelmens Club and Capital Bicycling

Club have donated a years membership to eachrecipient, which also serves as a way to moti-

vate and maintain veteran support. Newman

explains that those suffering from depression

often experience difficulty

mustering the drive to get

up and go. A club, he says, is

a way to create some healthy

peer pressure and according

to the National Alliance on

Mental Illness, group sup-

port goes a long way when

it comes to dealing with de-

pression and post-traumatic

stress syndrome (PTSD).

Exercise has also shown to

help elevate mood. Regard-

less of what statistics show,

however, VetBikes.org stresses an emphasis

on the individual. Its not about studies, its

about how these guys feel.

Newman shares a story about a veteran

experiencing PTSD after returning from the

Middle East who found solace in cycling. The

soldiers brother, a professional road racer in

Idaho, gave him a bike because he saw it as a

The Amgen PeoplesCoast Classi

Sun Valley Dirt Rally

June 29-30

thepeoplescoastclassic

sunvalleydirtrally.org

Sun Valley, Idaho

2 days - 50 miles of scenic

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stopthehurt!

September 8-13

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2-, 4- and 6-day ride

VETBIKES.ORG FROMPAGE1 way to help him cope with his condition. New-

man says that group rides helped the veteran

immensely both in a physical and mental sense.

Just being outside and being active can make

a huge difference.

Tragically, not long after his return the veter-

ans brother was hit and killed by an SUV while

out on a ride. Needing support,

he joined a transitional housing

program in Retsil, Wash., called

Building 9, an organization that

helps ex-servicemembers in

need of vocational rehabilitationand a stable living environment.

The prerequisite for entering the

program includes being sober

for at least 30 days, to have an

honorable discharge, and to

have been homeless for one or

more nights.

After joining Building 9, the

veteran worked with VetBikes.

org to build a custom painted bike dedicated to

his deceased brother. Since then, VetBikes.org

has donated 10 commuter bikes to the house, so

that those in the program have a way to travel

to work or school. It has been such as success

that there is now a repair shop in t he works at

the facility to give tenants a place to maintain

their bicycles.

Along with building the shop, Newman

and other VetBikes.orgs members are busy

responding to some of the attention theyve

recently received. This past December at the

Washington State Cyclocross Championships,

Seattles Bikesport Racing team raised $5,000

for the nonprot. It was the rst cash donation

received by the organization. Whole Foods

Market has also approached t

bike donation dr ive event they a

in mid-April when they will co

for veterans on how to cook and

while on a budget. They offered to

org signage out as well as take

their behalf.

Made possible through the support of sponsors, this bike wasdelivered in July 2012. Photo Vetbike.org

A recumbent turned out to be the ideal design for

Specialist who suffered a back injury in the Middle

Photo Vetbike.org

While VetBikes.org is still a sm

Newman says expansion is in the o

blueprint . Next month, they wi

up with therapists in the Puget S

strengthen the mental aspect of Ve

well as gain additional resources f

The enthusiastic response the

has received from the communit

hopeful foreshadowing of its pote

as they continue to do big things fo

of Puget Sound.

To see some of the latest bik

read some of the stories of their

to VetBikes.org. Under the Ho

Parts section, visitors can nd

needed for current projects.

convenient for the donor. Those who contribute

receive email updates with details about how

their parts are being used, no matter if its as

small as a pair of pedals or as large as a frame.

Donors are also provided with receipts and thus

an opportunity for tax deductions. No bike is

built, however, without rst having a veteran

who needs it.

That said, there are certain criteria a can-

didate must meet to acquire a bicycle, which

VetBikes.org leaves to the Washington State

Department of Veteran Affairs and Warrior

Transition Battalion to determine. What they

look for primarily are the lifer cyclists.

Were not going to give a $1,500 bicycle to

someone who isnt really already into biking,

Newman says. My biggest fear is nding one

[a VetBikes.org bicycle] on craigslist.Once selected, that recipient meets with

Newman, Aregger and/or Young to discuss

their cycling needs and to determine sizing.

Sponsors Redline Bicycles, Full Speed Ahead

Bicycle Components, and Alpine Experience/

The Bike Stand in Olympia supplement parts

and accessories that cannot be acquired through

community donations. Custom frame builder

Bill Stevenson of Olympias The Bike Stand

donates his time as well.
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TOURING ADVENTURES

STEENSMOUNTAIN FROMPAGE1

denitely up for the challenge. These days, my

bike is bett er equipped wi th front sus pension,

more gears, bar ends and clip-on pedals, but I

doubt the ride would be any easier.

Once we had our camp organized, my

friends were ready to kick back and enjoy the

primitive site beside the rushing Donner and

Blitzen River, but the prospect of the 26-mile

road to the summit was all I

could think about. I could see

from the gentle slope of the

west side that the Steens was

a uniquely rideable mountain.

The only information I had

came from the local ofce of

the Bureau of Land Manage-

ment, which manages the

Steens area. It was not encouraging, warning

that the gate to the summit road is normally

closed because of snow until early July and

that blustery 100-degree days were common

and the snow can fall year-round. It said to be

prepared for sudden lightning storms, snow,

rain, and high winds ... but it was August, so

I was ready to take my chances. I took a test

run for a couple of miles up the dirt road and

came down condent. I was going to give it a

try the next day for no better reason than

because it was there.

We all stayed up late looking at the brilli ant

star show, so it was 7 a.m. when I rolled out of

my sleeping bag. I ate as much breakfast cereal

as my growing excitement would allow, while

the rest of the campground still slept. With two

water bottles in cages and three lashed on my

carrier, I set out to do battle with the mountain.

I soon shifted down into the small chainring to

make sure I didnt push too hard and that was

where it stayed for most of the next three hours.

The sun rose as I got into a rhythm and began

to work my way upward across the lower slopes

which were covered in arid sagebrush. I soon

saw what makes this climb such a mental chal-

lenge: the grade is so gradual and t he mountain

so big that the summit is not

visible until around mile 23.

After about an hour with

nothing in sight but sagebrush,

the vegetation gradually

changed to low juniper bushes

and pines. Here, a series of

small lakes and meadows

dotted the broad slope of the

Steens and gave a brief break from the climbing.

When I reached Fish Lake, one of two primi-

tive campgrounds on the mountain, I came to

a halt beside a lone water pump. I topped off

my bottles, washed my face, and stayed a few

minutes to admire the serene alpine setting

among the aspen trees.

Then it was back to work. The tempera-

ture was now rising rapidly, turning the cool

morning into a warm summer day. By 9 a.m.

I peeled off another layer of clothing. It was

just me a nd the bike and the road winding its

way up and over the skyline. Losing track of

time, my thoughts began to wander ... I had not

seen any creatures large or small could the

plateau far above me be the setting for a Lost

World where extinct animals still ourished?

Towards the end of the second hour the

monotony was broken up by colorful signs and

banners in the juni per t rees. Three da ys l ater

I read a local paper and discovered that these

marked the course of the annual Steens Rim

Run 10K, the highest run in the state from

mile 17 to mile 23. It must be quite a spectacle,

as entrants have been known to suffer from

mild frostbite and altitude sickness.

By the third hour I was past the tree line

and into the sub-alpine meadow zone. I nally

reached a real landmark, Kiger Gorge, the rst

of the perfectly U-shaped valleys that look like

textbook illustrations of the Ice Age. These

gorges are so long and so deep, it seemed as if

entire towns could be lost in the depths.

By then the tourists were awake and bump-

ing uphill over the ruts in all manner of vehicles.

Most annoying were the sporty couples in shiny

new Land Cruisers with equally shiny mountain

bikes s ecured on their racks. No one so much

as nodded in my direction.

Down to my lowest (granny) gear, I pushed

on to reach the summit p lateau. Two and a half

hours, 23 miles and 5,000 feet from the base I

arrived on the ridge top. The extreme elevation

didnt seem to affect me as I spent another gruel-

ling half-hour traversing the plateau on a track

so rutted I could keep up with the occasional

car. From there I had a view east, down to the

desert oor where the Alvord (dry) Lake sits

a mile below. It is so at it has been used forlandspeed record attempts, including the fastest

woman on wheels (Kitty ONeil at 512 mph in

1976). I sat down for a snack, enjoying the cool

wind, the big sky vista, and the exhilaration of

having reached my goal.

I nished off a water bottle and set it down

only to watch it blow over the edge and bounce

slowly into the depths. Further on, there is a

ne viewpoint and parking area

leads to the 9,733 summit; a sig

warns drivers not to continue un

a real off-road vehicle. At least th

chance that anyone would pass m

down, I thought.

I plunged into the harrowing 1

hill section of the route, descend

between Little Blitzen Gorge an

Gorge, dropping 4,000 feet from

A long spine of rocks called the R

projects above the ridge, inviting

their eyes off the road but not

Thinking that the ascent wa

descent left my arms limp and my

from pulling on my standard-iss

brakes. There we re fabulous run

elds of grass, followed by spell

rock dodging and the suspense

ing what was around the next co

the descent continued, on and o

weary of the thrill of it all. My ha

cramp up from squeezing so hard

front, then rear braking as the tra

I learned why suspension forks

becoming p opular.

After the last dramatic view

Indian Gorge, the road makes

down to the crossing of the B

where some people were shingI hammered over the bridge. I r

and began to think of the journ

there was another surprise ahea

that a local politician had enoug

recently have a layer of pea grav

For the next 17 miles I would have

through this loose mess. Whereve

steered to the edge of the road to

good fresh dirt.

It was mid-afternoon and the

head, no shade, and no relief in sig

water remaining in my last bottle

drinkable. The gravel marathon

the climb as it sucked any remain

of my legs. Mercifully, the last ten

the settlement of Frenchglen wa

it still took all my strength to ke

turning. In a little less than an hthe edge of the plateau and swoo

escarpment to the rustic hotel/g

I staggered onto the porch,

membering that I wasnt carryin

Fortunately, one member of my p

pened to be there, eating ice cream

With the loan of a dollar, I had m

frozen treat before reluctantly re

last four miles back to the camp. I

again, but this section had been

Finally, after 66 miles and one

I completed the loop, as hard a on

any middle-aged cycle-tourist co

Im planning to go back next su

Ill be 65 and I expect to be alone

fearsome Rooster Comb descent

Note: The aspens change color in

when the temperature drops to freethe Steens Mountain Cooperative M

Protection Act was passed, giving

protection against d evelopment.

Peter J. Marsh is an outdoor and n

He was the editor of Oregon Cycli

1991. He wrote Rubber to the Road

to bike rides around Portland (ru

com). He lives in Astoria, Ore., whe

the world on his bike. More of his w

found at s ea-to- summit .net.

Kiger Gorges remarkable

landscape. Photo Peter J. Marsh
http://www.bicyclepaper.com/http://bicycleadventures.com/http://redmondderbydays.com/


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Bicycle Paper

HEALTH

PREGNANCY FROMPAGE1

eat whatever they want, therefore experienc-

ing mild weight loss upon adapting to a more

healthy diet. This is also common for those

who eliminate regular alcohol consumption

from their routine.

First trimester, week 1-13During the rst trimester, the body goes

through remarkable hormonal changes that

can lead to fatigue, altered smell and taste. In

combination with varying degrees of nausea, upto 5 lbs. of weight loss is usually not alarming.

However, the expectant mother is advised to

gain 5 lbs. as she enters the second trimester.

This can be accomplished by increasing daily

food intake by 150-250 calories.

In these rst weeks, pregnant women are

free to continue regular exercise but are not

encouraged to increase signicantly or start

unfamiliar exercise routines. Cycling in warm

climates requires special attention as pregnancy

increases the mothers metabolism and core

temperature. There is evidence that maternal

temperature above 102.6 F may harm the fetus3.

Cold beverages may not always be effective in

lowering core tempe rature quickly, however, it

can be included as part of safety precautions.

Second trimester, week 14-26Exercise intensity should be monitored

through a physician and/or midwife to es -

tablish the target heart rate based on personal

medical history. Researchers at Johns Hopkins

University School of Medicine observed fetal

heart rate deceleration and changes in blood

ow in trained cyclists immediately follow-

ing strenuous cycling4. Fortunately, this effect

subsided without intervention. A doctor can

help the future mom decide if a quality heart

rate monitor is a worthy investment.

Halfway into a pregnancy, many women

experience insomnia and/or frequent urina-

tion due to pressure from the growing uterus

on the bladder. This can be rather frustrating

for a woman who wants to remain active yet

is simply exhausted. In addition, experiencing

sharp pains in abdominal muscles, hip joints,

and the pelvic area as ligaments and cartilageloosen up in preparation for labor is not uncom-

mon. Even though such pains are a normal part

of pregnancies, their sudden onset may catch

a rst-time mother off guard. Women should

consider setting specic goals such as biking

two days a week or adjusting to a new speed

or distance to accommodate those physical

changes. Biking in designated lanes, trails, and

exercising with a companion are good initiatives

to ensure physical safety.

During the second trimester, average weight

gain of one pound per week is encouraged.

Thanks to an array of hormones, many women

expressed that they seemed to gain weight

without even trying. Continuing a balanced diet

with an extra 300 daily calories will sufce. For

those who decreased their cycling and exerciselevel, the reduction in energy expenditure may

be adequate to reach the target weight without

increasing food intake.

Third trimester, week 27-42The last trimester is the home stretch.

Weight gain of one pound per week continues.

The combination of weight gain and ligament

relaxation produces a shift in the center of

gravity. Avoiding windy and poor outdoor

conditions are necessary. At this stage of a

pregnancy, physical comfort is a main driver

of the ability t o bike. Although regular exercise

is good for delivery, there is no evidence that

it can initiate labor.

Overall, a mom-to-be should be exible with

their exercise goals as some are able to continue

cycling daily while others nd themselves

with persistent back pain. Albeit less exciting,

stationary biking is a reasonable alternative to

outdoor riding until the day of the triumphant

return to the road with a baby trailer in tow.

Most research regarding healthy pregnan-

cies and exercise are observational since it

would be unethical to administer experimental

interventions that could potentially harm the

fetus. Consequently, data is limited beyond

the understanding that moderate exercise is

benecial to maternal and fetal health and it

must be tailored to the individuals tness and

prenatal health. Personal healthcare providers

should be abreast of any exercise routine and

unusual physical symptoms.

Basics of sports nutrition still apply:

Stay hydrated. While there is no validated

method to assess uid loss from exercise during

pregnancy, consuming at least the same amount

of uid as prior to pregnancy is recommended.Urine should be clear to light yellow in color

within a few hours after an exercise bout.

Eat adequately and regularly. Starting

with the base calories, adjust energy intake to

reect the level of activity and add 300 calories

per day as the pregnancy moves along. Eating

on time, roughly every four hours, is also good

for metabolism and blood glucose stability.

Dietary supplements. Take

tivitamins and mineral supplemen

tion or as soon as a pregnancy

Healthcare providers should be

any sports and herbal suppleme

used and discontinued that ha

clinically tested for pre- and po

which is likely to be most dietary

on the market.

Be fexible. Pregnancy is a t

physically, mentally, and emot

pregnancy is different. Be kind

set realistic tness goals, enjoy th

try not to overly focus on weigh

unless the doctor advises otherw

References:

1. Duncombe D, Wertheim EH,

et al. Factors related to exer

course of pregnancy includ

beliefs about the safety of

ing pregnancy. Midwifery

430-8. 2009.

2. Pregnancy weight gain w

www.mayoclinic.com

3. Wang TW and Apgar BS.

ing pregnancy. Am Fam Ph

15;57(8):1846-52, 1857. 1998.

4. Szymanski LM and Satin A

exercise during pregnancy

limit? Am J Obstet Gyneco179.e1-6. 2012.

Ellen is a Seattle-based sports

nutritionist. She works with athle

She also works extensively with ath

stable cardiovascular and metabolic

can be contacted at endgamenutrit
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PRODUCT REVIEW NEWS

CYCLING ACCIDENT? INJURY CLAIM?No Charge for Initial Consultation

Member of Cascade Bicycle Club

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Greenlite Heavy Industries G1 PantBYDARRENDENCKLAU

There are times when donning a team kit

or a good pair of cycling shorts or bibs are

necessary, especially for those who ride only

for sport or serious recreational purposes. For

most commuter and lifestyle riders, rocking

the spandex isnt often necessary or a desired

look they want to project. Seattle resident Mike

McGufn created Greenlite Heavy Industries

beca use he and many other s fall into thesecond category.

For the past three months I have been test ing

out Greenlites G1 pants, a wind, water, and stain

resistant garment made of Schoeller-dryskin.

This softshell material is made in Switzerland

and is very popular among outdoor compa-

nies making tech-wear. It is highly breathable,

stretchy, fast drying, and most of all comfortable.

What is unique about the G1, besides the

obvious details mentioned, is the added func-

tionality designed specically for cycling such

as seven belt loops to minimize bunching, a

higher waistband, articulated knees, comfort-

able and accessible pockets, and the D-Greaser

Cuffs which fold up at the bottom of each leg

and snap together with two different sizing

options depending on how big your cankles

are. The D-Greaser Cuffs are bright orange

with reective strips running through them

as well, providing ample visibility for drivers

and other cyclists.

I have been wearing these pants daily

since I got them. They t and look like a pair

of tailored dress slacks and I wouldnt hesitate

wearing them to business meetings

which I have or any other pseudo

dress-up occasion. Thats the beauty of

the G1, they are functional and practical,

and unless the cuffs are rolled up, they can

fool even the most astute metro city slicker

who bases style over anything else.

On the technical side of things, the pants

do a good job of repelling water and wicking

away sweat. Drying time comes fast, too, as

Ive been soaked during the ride to the ofce

only to nd them moistureless by midday after

hanging them up. Comfortable and sleek, the

legs of the G1 stay clear of the drivetrain while

pedaling and conform to active movement.

They are designed with rid ing in mind and the

seat of the pants conforms to the butt as well,

keeping dismounts clean and unobstructed.

So far they have held up dutifully and

there are only faint signs of any pilling (fuzzy

spots fabric often gets due to friction withother objects) in the crotch area. The seams are

rugged and holding together

amply; Greenlite Heavy In-

dustries products are sewn

together by a local Seattle

company. After three months

of consistent wear, the only

signs of distress come from

their slightly dirty appear-

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should probably wash them

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At $195 a pair,

these pants may

seem like a lux-

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for something

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a luxury thats worth coughing up some

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greenliteheavyindustries.com

BC Mountain B

Tourism Sympo

British Columbia has gained m

worldwide for its signicant role

biking. The Western Canada M

Tourism Association (MBTA), i

with various groups, will host the

Bike Tourism Symposium in S

May 26-28, 2013. Entitled Prog

events program speaks of the opstakeholders and experts to gath

insights and knowledge about h o

toward a more sustainable and via

bike touri sm sector.

The Symposium is geared t

munity leaders, land managers, tr

adventure tourism operators, and

and industry representatives and

lessons learned from BC and oth

world. Some key initiatives will b

to represent new opportunities

ties throughout the province. Top

marketing mountain biking expe

use and product development co

environmental and risk manage

partnerships and funding, as well

bike friendly communitie s and

goal is to unify the voice of the

bike tourism in dustry and di scu

tunities to drive more tourism to

A pre-symposium trail d

workshop will take place on M

To register or to nd out more

mtbtourismsymposium.ca.

Photo Greenlite HeavyIndustries / Mike McGuffin
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11/16

Welcome to the Pacific Northwests MostComprehensive Bicycle Calendar

All events are listed chronologically within their respective sections: (clinics, expositions, lectures, etc.), , (eventsthat include cycling as part of the competition), (competitions where cumulative point standings are awarded),, (competition featuring singletrack and other off-road riding), (rides featuring singletrack and off-road riding),(bicycle competition), (road rides of various distances and for any type of bicycle), (velodrome-type events). Toconserve space, weve chosen to run websites only on events where both website and email are available. If youare an organizer and your event is not listed, or if t he information listed changes, contact us and we will gladlyupdate the calendar. Please send your event information in the same style and format seen here.

All aspects of this event calendar are copyright 2012 Bicycle Paper. This calendar may not be transmitted orreproduced by any means, electronically or printed, without written consent of the publisher.

Bicycle Paper M

CALENDAR

EVENTSMARCH

Mar 2: Seattle Bike & Pike ExpoSeattle, WA. Celebrate the 40th anniversary andbe part of the R+E reunion! Both Glenn Ericksonand Angel Rodriguez will be attending the event.Meet the guys behind the shop, tast

2013 march bp interactive

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