Sunday December 6, 2009
So you can't get enough Lance, eh? Well the good news is that he's just released a new book this week called Comeback 2.0: Up Close and Personal that details his return to professional cycling in 2009.
The book is essentially a collection of Lance's own journal entries compiled over the course of the past year, and features color photography by top-notch cycling photographer Elizabeth Kreutz, who followed Armstrong along the way.
In the intro, Lance talks about his decision to return to cycling after being gone for three years. He was in an Ohio hotel for a Livestrong conference, killing time between sessions and one day found the Tour de France on the TV:
What got to me was watching the stage when they climbed Alpe d'Huez. I have history with Alpe d'Huez. Good history. Most notably when I won a Stage 16 time trial there that was critical to my 2004 Tour victory.
As I watched Carlos Sastre make his move on Alpe d'Huez, a move that went essentially unchallenged, I felt a pang: I want back in. It was the first time I'd even considered a return to the Tour de France. I can't say that I decided right then and there to mount a comeback, but the seed was planted. In the days and weeks that followed, it was on my mind. Increasingly on my mind.
Armstrong goes on to recount the responses of his family, his coach and his friends and business partners to his desire to return to professional cycling. Not surprisingly, Lance received mixed reactions. But in true Lance fashion, he pressed on, and we watched it all unfold last July when he ended up third on the Tour de France podium.
The 208-page book is published by Simon & Schuster and retails for $27.99. You can read the full introduction here.
Links
Thursday December 3, 2009
I used to be one of those people who wondered why in the world anyone would wear a hat underneath their cycling helmet.
But not anymore, and I'll give you three good reasons why it's cool --- they're comfortable and they look good, and they're fun as heck to wear. So, even if you don't consider yourself a cap wearer, you should still check out cycling caps, and especially the ones made by Walz Caps out of Vista, California if you still need convincing.
Handmade out of a variety of materials, including warm wool, eco-friendly hemp, and high-tech moisture wicking performance fabric, you'll find a cap for every type and style of riding. Bills flip up or down, and two different sizes plus an elastic band in the back means they'll fit comfortably. Plus, the hats' sleek profile allow them to to fit snugly on your head, fitting easily under your helmet.
Monday November 30, 2009
Looking for something special for that cyclist on your list? Check out our compilation of best gifts for bike riders.
From flat resistant bike tubes and a solar motion bike sculpture to bike locks that use words for the combination,, not numbers, you'll find it all right here.
What's on your gift list? Share your cycling-related wishes. Comment below.
Friday November 27, 2009
Used to be that when people thought of commuter or urban bikes, it meant something big, heavy, slow and clunky. That was the dark ages. Good thing we live today, right? When you can get a bike for work or school or just doing errands and still feel like you're scorching down the road.
Redline has nailed that feeling in the Redline Metro Disc, a high-flying hybrid bike in their commuter series. With a carbon fork and aluminum frame set up with racing geometry, you get speed. At the same time, the flat handlebars and slightly wider tires give you the comfort and durability you need for knocking around town.
We put this bike through its paces recently and have some insight for you if you're looking for a great all-purpose bike. Find out what we liked about it, and yes, what we would change in our review of the Redline Metro Disc.
