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ISSUE 210

PEAK ROAD PERFORMANCE

THE ART OF BUCKET LIST SUFFERING THE TASMANIA A CELEBRATION PROJECT OF CLIMBING Riding the Bruny Island Region

TEST LAB: BOSSI, TREK, GIANT KEY MOVES DAYS OF SMART TRAINERS 5BEFORE YOU RIDE 6MADNESS 7REVIEWED A Routine for Every Cyclist Madison Returns Your Complete Guide

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The Bunch 8 MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM ISSUE NUMBER 210

GROUP EDITOR Gary Hunt [email protected]

DIGITAL EDITOR Nat Bromhead [email protected]

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Tim Partridge [email protected]

PRODUCTION EXECUTIVE Kristal Young [email protected]

ART DIRECTOR Ana Heraud [email protected]

PHOTOGRAPHY Beardy McBeard, Mark Hunter, Steve Thomas, Con Chronis, Marcus Leach, Sirotti, Tim de Waele, Peter Maniaty, Eamon Fitzpatrick, Tim Bardsley-Smith

CONTRIBUTORS David Heatley, Peter Maniaty, Anthony Tan, Michael Hanslip, Marcus Leach, Karen Forman Gemma Mollenhauer, Sarah Hunter, Scott Mattern, David O'Reilly, Nat Bromhead, Kieran Pender, Luke Meers

PROOF READER Jordan Hunt

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Material in this publication may not be reproduced without permission. While the publishers have taken all reasonable precautions and made all reasonable effort to ensure the accuracy of material contained in this publication, it is a condition of purchase of this magazine that the publisher does not assume any responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which may result from any inaccuracy or omission in this publication, or from the use of the information contained herein and the publishers make no warranties, express or implied, with respect to any of the material contained herein. groupesportif Groupe Sportif www.groupesportif.com Contents 10 MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM ISSUE NUMBER 210

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SPECIAL FEATURES 22 THE ART OF 34 6DAYSOF SUFFERING MADISON MADNESS Many cyclists love climbing. While Six Day racing began in But why? Is it the reward that Europe, Australia has a proud history comes after the pain? Or is it the in the category. The race format has ‘hereandnow’,theescapism evolved, ebbed and lowed over the from everything and living in the yearsandisnowpeggedtoreturnto moment? Marcus Leach shares his the Olympics in Tokyo. Karen Forman celebration of climbing, examining looksatsomeofthecharacters and why we enjoy suffering, drawing champions of the Madison. on his experiences from one of Europe’s most iconic climbs, the 42 WHERE LYCRA Alto de l’Angliru. MEETS LORE 28 THE TASMANIA PeterManiatytakesalookatan PROJECT interesting cycling kit initiative by a couple of Indigenous riders Cycling through the pristine from Sydney forest and coastal farming region around Bruny Island is a privilege 46 HOWTOHANDLE too few have experienced. Scott WINDY CONDITIONS Mattern and photographer Tim Bardsley-Smith joined a select Themountaingoatsmaygetallthe group of mates to document glory when the road points up, but a stunning trip through south- in the windy latlands the rouleurs eastern Tasmania. will dominate the dojo. David Heatley 62 shares his tips on how to survive riding in head and crosswinds. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 Editorial BY GARY HUNT 11

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THE EDGE Changing Gear MASTERCLASS 56 5 FUNCTIONAL MOVES FOR HAVE JUST RECEIVED A CARTON FULL OF BIKE COMPONENTS FROM EVERY CYCLIST Rotor, the brand that makes Chris Froome’s chainrings. I The carton contains a full suite of their new hydraulic groupset. Yes, a hydraulically actuated groupset: gears change FUEL through derailleurs, similar to the cable and electronically 62 FUEL FOR THE RIDE actuated versions, but using fluid as the medium instead of Find Your Corsica cables or motors. We’ll be installing these parts on a frame and riding them for review in our next issue, so keep an eye out. Regardless of your perspective on the need for ‘another’ type TEST LAB of gears or your assessment of its reliability or sales prospects, I am already impressed. Not so much by the performance of 66 INDOOR TRAINER the gear (I’ve not operated it yet) but by the engineering effort BUYERS’ GUIDE that’s gone into the system, not to mention the balls of the 92 BOSSI FABRICA TI Rotor team to take on the big boys already in the space. 96 TREK DOMANE SL7 It makes me wonder how much further innovation in the bike 100 GIANT PROPEL ADVANCED world will go. When will we see anti-lock brakes, automatic PRO DISC transmissions, real suspension in road bikes? If they are light and seamless, and bring performance gains, surely there will be demand for these changes. Just as hydraulic disc brakes haven’t REGULARS spelt the end for bicycles, I’d suggest neither will these. I say “just keep riding”; let them bring on the new gear, 14 THE BIG PICTURE we’ll take what works and leave the rest. 16 LOCAL HERO Oh, and don’t forget about our next sensational gran fondo; Raymond Bilney the Clare Classic on April 8th! Should be a cracker of a ride. 18 TOP GEAR I look forward to seeing you there. 52 SHE RIDES Cheers; Women’s Cyclist Alliance 104 BUNCH OF 5S: J.A.M.B.O.C. 112 SPIN CYCLE © BEARDY McBEARD BMC...Better Make Changes COVER: Mitch Blain of the 112 PRO RIDES Puncheurs (Sydney) riding in Welsford on the Wheel Adelaide during the TDU. GARY HUNT – EDITOR The Bunch 12 MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM ISSUE NUMBER 210

Our Contributors

TIM BARDSLEY-SMITH Cyclingphotographerforover15 years,Ilovetophotographallfacets of cycling, road, adventure and MTB. My focus is on documentary and SARAH HUNTER ANTHONY TAN STEVE THOMAS story telling, it's what drives me.

SarahisanassociatecoachforFTP BuoyedbytheOlympicGamesin Steve Thomas has spent most Training. She is a qualiied Triathlon hishometownofSydney,Anthony of his life chasing bicycle Coach and has a certiication in Tan turned his back on a lucrative dreams along the side roads Fitness.She’salifetimecompetitive advertising career, choosing and trails of the world. For athletewitha20yearpassion insteadtomeldjournalismwithhis much of that time he’s also for cycling including Ironman experiences as a handy road racer been capturing his experiences triathlon, multi day MTB races, that took him to Europe – albeit in words and images, and TTs,CXandcrits.Herpassionfor briely, and unsuccessfully. He has his tales have been a regular cycling and strength training is covered the TDF since 2001, and featurehereformorethan MICHAEL HANSLIP boundless and infectious. is a cycling analyst for SBS. 20 years, and counting. Michael is a cycling coach, a skills instructor and a bike mechanic. He has contributed to Bicycling Australia for over a decade. He loves to ride bikes.

DAVID O’REILLEY DAVID HEATLEY SCOTT MATTERN

DavidO’Reillyisaperformance David Heatley is an accredited Road, gravel, or mountain adventure nutritionist and strength coach Level 2 Cycling Australia Cycling isacorepartofmylife.It’sthis whoholdsaMasterofHuman Coach who helps the busy passion for adventure that has PETER MANIATY Nutrition from Deakin University. cyclists quickly get awesome driven me to provide a platform to Peter is an award-winning writer Owner of MountainFoundry.com. results and greater satisfaction connect with likeminded individuals, and club-level cyclist. When not au,he'salsoabespokenutritionist from their cycling through proven to explore and document the writing about bikes he likes to ride and writes for Bicycling Australia time saving training programs possibilities out there. andracethemasmuchaspossible. and Mountain Biking Australia. and coaching support. Instagram @scott_mattern Occasionally he even wins.

GEMMA MOLLENHAUER BEARDY McBEARD KIERAN PENDER KAREN FORMAN

Gemma came to Bicycling Australia Marcus Enno A.K.A. Beardy Kieran Pender is a freelance journalist, Karen Forman has been cycling in 2016 where she found a particular McBeardisknownforhisemotive contributing to Bicycling Australia, aroundfor30yearsasarider, interest reporting on women’s cycling images. Beardy spends half The Guardian and Inside Sport. He journalist, coach and parent. She cycling. She quickly developed a the year chasing Grand Tours across hascoveredtheTourdeFrance, writes, and rides road, track and thirst for racing, hoping to one day Europe and the other half riding his TourDownUnderand-hispersonal MTB and is currently a trainee race at an international level. bike capturing images along the way. favourite - the Tour of Tasmania. level two Cycling Australia coach. SUBSCRIBE & WIN a set of Vision Metron 40 wheels

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“There are some days when I think I’m going to die from an overdose of satisfaction.” – Salvador Dalí © STEVE THOMAS WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 15 Local Hero MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 16 BY PETER MANIATY

Local Hero: Raymond Bilney ATWO-TIMEBALLARATSPORTSPERSONOFTHEYEAR,RAYMONDVICTOR‘RAY’ TTHEAGEOFJUST18BILNEY became an Olympian at BILNEYWASBORNON2NOVEMBER1945ANDWENT ON TO BECOME ONE OF A theTokyoGamesof1964, AUSTRALIA’S FINEST AMATEUR ROAD CYCLISTS. effectively forcing the hands of national selectors following the first of his three consecutive Australian Road Championship Titles between 1964 and 1966. Despitebeingtheyoungest memberofanAustralianroad team that also included Michael Hollingsworth, David Humphreys and Malcolm McCredie, any doubts about Bilney’s readiness for Olympic battlewerequicklyerasedonthe foothills of the Okutama Mountains in Hachioji, western Tokyo as he delivered a performance mature beyondhisyears.Ratherthanbe overwhelmed on his Olympic debut, Bilney achieved a breakthrough result for Australian road cycling, finishinganoutstandingfourthin aspectacularbunchsprintthatsaw riders spread eight wide at the line. Atthetimeitwasthebestever resultbyanAustraliancyclist,male orfemale,intheOlympicroadrace. Bilney recorded the same time as gold medalist, Mario Zanin of Italy, while eight places back in the melee behind was the reigning Amateur World Champion Eddy Merckx in 12th.AsTheAgeexplainedexcitedly inOctober1964ofVictoria’s newestcyclingstar,“Ballaratrider RayBilney,18,matchedthecrack Continentalsandjustmisseda Bronze Medal!” Bilney’s performance inJapanremainsthesecondbest ever by an Australian male. In the 14 Olympiads since Tokyo only Clyde Sefton has performed better in the roadrace,claimingsilveratthe1972 GamesinMunich. Bilney’s efforts attracted plenty of attention back home, with the plaudits unsurprisingly heard loudest amongsthislocalBallaratsporting community.Shortlyafterhisreturn to Australia he was honoured as the Ballarat Sportsperson of the Year ABOVE: At the 1967 Australian Road Championships in Adelaide, Bilney was defending for1964.Followingasuccessful three successive Championship wins but it was state team-mate Peter McDermott who defenceofhisAmateurAustralian took the new honours. (Fellow Victorian John Hine in the background) RoadTitleinSydney’sCentennial OPPOSITE PAGE: Bilney all focus ready for the start of the individual Time Trial stage Park – where he narrowly beat of the 1967 High Speed Gas Tour of Victoria. fellow Tokyo Olympian Dick Paris WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 17

intosecondplace–Bilneyduly road surfaces in layers of received the same honour again leaves, branches and mud. As in1965.Indoingsohejoineda TheSydneyMorningHerald proudgroupofBallaratathletes explained, “The four Australians to become multiple winners, a wereamong19ridersinthe list that includes Commonwealth 43-strong field who crashed ... Champion marathoner Steve Australian senior road champion Moneghetti, Olympic Champion RayBilney,favouritetowinthe race walker Jarred Tallent and race, was admitted to hospital.” Olympic Champion shooter While1966failedtodeliver Russell Mark. thegoldenresultBilneyhad Even greater honours lay hoped for, it wasn’t his final in store for Bilney; the end of attemptataCommonwealth 1965 saw him join the giants podium.Afterseveralquiet of Australian cycling when he seasons following Jamaica, 1970 was named as The Sir Hubert saw Bilney begin to recapture Opperman Trophy winner and theformofhisearliercareer.His theAustralianCyclistofthe comeback to the highest echelons Year. was capped with selection for the Still only 20, Bilney returned tocompleteatrifectaof Australian Road Titles in 1966 when he defeated Peter McDermott and Donald Wilson. His third consecutive in 1966 defeating Peter victorysawhimdulyselected forthe1966BritishEmpire McDermott and Donald Wilson.” andCommonwealthGames in Kingston, Jamaica where he went into the road race as 1970 Commonwealth Games in in Great Britain following the hewasstillaregularfeatureon astrongfavouriteforthegold Edinburgh. Edinburgh Games, competing podiumsinclubhandicapsfor medal. Unlike his Olympic debt In scenes becoming increasing inanumberofdomestic theMtGambierCyclingClub in Tokyo, however, it would be familiar for Bilney at major races before returning home. throughout the early 2000s. averydifferentstoryforBilney championships, the field was Mostnotablewashiswin Withawell-timedsprinthe in what remains one of the once again tested by searching inthestupendouslynamed won the time-honoured Bailey most challenging road races in conditions. Thankfully, he ‘Clachnacuddin’ Kermesse at Memorial in 2006 at the age Commonwealth Games history. defied the miserable weather to Inverness ahead of Canada’s of 60 and also represented According to observers, the shinebrightlyintheScottish Marc Tremblay and Scotland’s South Australia at the 2009 riders were forced to navigate gloom, and was only narrowly Andrew Crawford. Australian Masters Games in allmannerofhazardsduring edged for gold by New Zealand’s Thehistorybooksshow1970 Geelong finishing 6th in the theracefromKingstonto BruceBiddlewithAustralian wasthefinalseasonBilney Cat 7 criterium. Manchioneal including heavily team-mateJohnTevorrow competed at the sport’s highest pot-holedroadsandobstacles claiming bronze to complete an levels. But he continued to Weacknowledgepastandpresent, suchaschickens,goats,pigsand Antipodean clean sweep. race, successfully, well after his ‘Local Hero’ historic photos stray dogs. Heavy downpours Bilneydecidedtocapitaliseon retirement from elite cycling. courtesy Ray Bowles and the covered the already dubious his excellent form by remaining After moving to South Australia Cycling Victoria History Archive.

PALMARES RAYMOND BILNEY (Selected results) 1964 1964 1965 1965 1966 1966 1970 Australian Olympic Games Australian Sir Hubert Australian Commonwealth Games Commonwealth National Road (Tokyo), Men’s National Road Opperman Trophy/ National Road (Jamaica), Men’s Road Games (Edinburgh), Champion Road Race – 4th Champion Australian Cyclist Champion Race – DNF Men’sRoadRace – of the Year Silver Medal Top Gear MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 18 ESSENTIAL STUFF

Top Gear A SELECTION OF GEAR TO ENHANCE YOUR RIDE

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BONTRAGER STORAGE POD A neat and tidy option to carry your keys and spares, the storage pod from Bontrager OTTOLOCK its your bidon cage and does The OTTOLOCK is ultra light and oh so portable. At 120g and 75mm in diameter away with a dangling saddle it might give your smartphone body image issues. Designed for short stops, the bag. The pod comes with bottle layered Kevlar and stainless steel band provides more security than a cable lock padding to reduce the rattle at 90% less weight than a D-Lock. Most bikes that are stolen are unlocked: of CO2s and levers and will if you can carry a smartphone you should carry an OTTOLOCK. hold two tubes, levers, a CO2 Colours: Stealth Black, OTTO Orange, Flash Green canister and a small multi-tool. Lengths: 45, 75 or 150cm RRP: $14.95 RRP: $99 www.trekbikes.com/au www.leadoutsports.com CX IS OUR DNA CELEBRATING COLOUR

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SMART ENGINEERED IN GERMANY PERFORMANCE #RIDEBEYOND SINCE 1993 BIKES 20 Top Gear MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

IRWIN AON-TLR 58MM These tubeless-ready clinchers have been wind tunnel tested and proven to be extremely aerodynamic, but also proven fast in the real world—on the road. The Irwin 58s are built with their proprietary rim and hub designs, using ceramic bearings, and Sapim CX-Ray spokes for light weight, and durability. Combined with RAVEMEN HEADLIGHT their 6-pawl, 60 ratchets The CR900 is a compact, lightweight freehub for near-instant and powerful headlight rated to 900 engagement, the AON-TLR lumens. It’s DuaLens optical design 58 wheels are designed for provides a broad anti-glare lood light outright speed. Look out for and it has a wired remote so you can a full review in our next issue. safely change the brightness. There’s $1995 an LED runtime display and it also has www.irwincyclingoceania. some power management smarts with com.au a mode memory function and thermal management circuit. Its 3000mAh Li- ion battery is USB-rechargeable and the quick release makes it convenient for daily use. RRP: $119.95 www.ravemen.com

CIRCUIT HELMET Incorporating MIPS for ultimate crash protection and Bontrager’s Blendr Mount Integration which allows the front and rear of the helmet to mount a GoPro or Bontrager lights, the Circuit is more than just a pretty face. The Boa Dial Fit System enables perfect head feel, and coming in ive colours (Black, White, Blue, Vis Yellow and Heather Grey) you should be able to ind one to go with your favourite kit. RRP: $219 www.trekbikes.com/au AZUR PRO ALPHA SADDLE A critical point of contact between the rider and the bike is the saddle, and we often have to choose either sleek stylish looks or comfort. The Azur Pro Alpha saddle delivers on both stylish looks and comfort with a full ergonomic design that incorporates a speciic high density foam to achieve a high level of comfort without having to bulk up the saddle. This new design is backed by a 30 day comfort guarantee. See in-store for details. RRP: $39.99 www.bikecorp.com.au FEATURING:

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shimanoebike shimanoaustralia shimanoOZ The Art Of Suffering MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 22 BY MARCUS LEACH

The art of SUFFERING MY LEGS NUMB FROM THE PAIN THAT COMES WITH CLIMBING ONEOFEUROPE’SMOSTFEAREDMOUNTAINS.ITELLMYSELF THATI’MALMOSTTHERE,ONLYTHREEKILOMETRESTOGOAND THEN IT’SOVER,FINISHED.BUTCANIHOLDONUNTILTHEEND? HOW MUCH MORE SUFFERING CAN I ENDURE? IMAGE © STVE THOMAS WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 23 24 The Art Of Suffering MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

PREVIOUS PAGE: Thedecisiontodefy gravityispersonaland can be difficult for others to comprehend. RIGHT: Embracing Pain On The Slopes of Alto de l’Angliru. BELOW: Spurring

each other on. IMAGE © MARCUS LEACH

EEP IN THE ASTURIAS MOUNTAINS IN NORTHERN Spain a ribbon of tarmac coils abruptly D upwards, a series of unrelenting twists and turnsthatriseeverhigheruntileventuallythe road seemingly disappears into the sky, heading for the heavens. It’s here, on the slopes of the mythical Altodel’Angliru,thatIfindmyselfbeingsucked deeperanddeeperintomyownpersonalhell, everyturnofthepedalsratchetingthepainlevels upstillfurther,yetIwearaperversesmileas,ina peculiar way, I am loving the experience. Itmaysoundstrangetosomebuttherearea largenumberofcyclists,myselfincluded,forwhom theveryactofsufferingisenjoyable;wetakegreat pleasure from pitting ourselves against the toughest climbs in the world. Ever since I started cycling I thought that this love was to do with the sense of delayed gratification, the reward that comes once thepainhaspassed,themountaindefeatedand theridefinished.ButovertimeIhaverealisedit’s not that at all. There is no delay; the gratification is

IMAGE © STVE THOMAS now, here in the moment. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 25

Our minds become weak when they are required to perform at an extraordinary level, and it’s in these moments that we can gradually forge a steely resolve that knows not the words ‘quit’ or ‘defeat’. And so we train ourselves with one goal in mind: to be able to tolerate greater levels of pain for longer periods, to constantly push the boundaries. That’s not to say that it ever gets easier, only that we become better equipped to endure great periods of discomfort and hurt. It’s a unique form of pain, given we have full control over it and can end it at any moment with a simple decision to listen to the voice that long ago warned us of the perils of going higher, of the purgatory that undoubtedly comes from pursuing such masochistic goals. “the road levels out for a few sweet moments,

then the journey to hell begins.”

But that’s the last resort, because the physical pain inflicted by rising gradients passes, the mental torment from quitting cuts deep and doesn’t fade so easily. Such decisions eat away at us for days, weeks and sometimes months as the voice that convinced us to quit begins to doubt itself, questioning if that was really our limit, if we could have actually kept going. That voice can be the cruellest of tormentors, but it also holds the key to mastering the art of suffering. For once we I’ve come to understand that the greatest battle can win that battle, there is no mountain too high of cycling is not a physical one, but rather a or steep, not even the l’Angliru. psychological one. Every col we conquer is a mental Prior to arriving at the foot of the l’Angliru battle won, our mind forcing the body to do that I had spent the summer riding the Giro d’Italia, which it doesn’t want to. We must continually answer Tour de France and Vuelta a Espana, in a bid to the voices that question our ability to hold on in the complete all three Grand Tours in the same year, face of adversity, to embrace the pain long enough a feat that only thirty-nine professionals have ever to triumph. It doesn’t come easily. Our capacity for achieved. Riding just a day ahead of the peloton suffering is the result of repeated efforts, every time I had already conquered some of Europe’s toughest we push beyond our limits we add to the well of mountain climbs—Passo del Mortirolo, Passo mental strength, building our inner resolve. dello Stelvio, Monte Grappa, Grand Colombier, These limits are not real, only perceived, and we Col du Galibier, Mont Chat, Alto de los Machucos always have the ability to give more, so long as we and Sierra de la Pandera to name but a few—yet it are prepared to explore the dark recesses of our was here on the final climb of my challenge that minds and defeat the voice in our head that pleads I discovered a new-found capacity to endure. for us to stop. For all of the hors catergorie climbs It’s a climb that lulls you into a false sense of in the world, it’s the mountains of the mind that security. Famed for its barbaric gradients, the are often the hardest to overcome. At some stage opening six kilometres—with only a few stretches or another we all have to confront the voice in our in double figures—leave you questioning its head, to listen to it coaxing us into defeat as our reputation as one of the hardest climbs in Europe. bodies toil and strain, and if we’re not careful we And then, just as the road levels out for a few sweet listen and we quit. moments, allowing you to completely disregard all 26 The Art Of Suffering MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

MindOverMuscle: Pushing Through The Pain Barrier. IMAGE © MARCUS LEACH

that you’ve read about this ‘beast’, the journey to “...at that moment, you have the conviction that hell begins. From the moment the road narrows to atrackanditabruptlyrampsupto14%,itbecomes youcontainallthepowerintheworld, purgatory. For six long, painful kilometres it rises ever higher, gradients in excess of 20%, reaching amaximumof23.8%foronetorturousstretchof nearly half a kilometre. Anybody who wants to reachthetophastoearntheright. a beautiful period where you become accepting My mind alternated from empty and thoughtless of the pain. Your mind becomes still as the world tothesoundoftwodistinctvoicestryingtowrest aroundyouandyourvisionnarrowstotheexact control of my actions. With my head bowed and spot of tarmac you and your bike occupy. my focus narrowed to the immediate stretch of Nothingelsematters,therearenoworries, roadinfrontofmemymindemptied,asclearas nothoughts,novoices,justtherhythmicturningof thelate-summerskythatgracedtheday.Every pedalstothethumpingbeatofyourheart.Olympic timeIlookedup,craningmynecktoseethe weightlifting champion Yuri Vlasov described it roadwindingitswayeverhigher,precariously best when he said “At the peak of tremendous and clinging to the side of the mountain, the voices victoriouseffort,whilethebloodispoundingin begantheirincessantchatter.Abattlebetween yourhead,allsuddenlybecomesquietwithinyou. goodandevil,onetryingtocarrymetovictory, Everythingseemsclearerandwhiterthanever the other intent on sabotaging my efforts. It’s a before,asifgreatspotlightshadbeenturnedon. battle I have faced countless times before, one At that moment, you have the conviction that you thatIampreparedfor,drowningoutthevoice containallthepowerintheworld,thatyouare of doubt with a constant incanting of "the steeper capableofeverything,thatyouhavewings.” itgets,thestrongerIbecome". It’s in these moments that pleasure and pain Forsome,myselfincluded,itbecomesacaseof combinetocreateatwistedenjoyment,aeuphoric thehardertheclimb,thegreaterthesuffering,the high that pushes you towards the summit. All greater the sense of enjoyment. It’s only when the logicsaystostop,butyoudon’t:youpushon, bodyiswrackedwithpain,everymuscleandsinew harder still, searching for new limits, embracing straining, skin glistening with sweat and face theinevitablepain,totallyconsumedinthe contortedthatwearehappy,almostfree.Such moment. That is the essence of life, to live in the effortshaveacertainmeditativequalitytothem; moment, for the mind to be still and present. With the very act of suffering offers a moment of escape. everymetreweclimbhigherweslowlytranscend Once we have quieted the voice of doubt and the world below, climbing to a place of inner peace fought off the demons lurking in our mind there’s only achievable by mastering the art of suffering. Cool got aero.

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THE SOUTHERN TASMANIA PROJECT: TASMANIA, BRUNY AND SATELLITE. THREE ISLANDS. THREE DAYS ON A BIKE. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 29 30 Southern Tasmania Project MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

NISLANDOFFANISLANDOFFANISLAND:ITSEEMS suchasurrealconceptastobealmostnot A true,butthisisadestinationjustwaitingfor you in the D'Entrecasteaux Channel of Southern Tasmania.Tomakethisdestinationevenmore special, the journey there is through rolling hills anduniquecoastline,windingyourwaythrough, oftenongravelroads.Tohelpyouonyourway, there are artisanal food and beverage producers introducingyoutothebestoflocalproduce, hand-craftedintosomethingreallyspecial,and localaccommodationwhereyouaretreatedlike atrueguest. There are many ways you could experience travellingthroughthispartoftheworld,butforus it was going to be bikes. For me, this region seems to be almost made for exploring by bike. Our host in this region would be head brewer of Willie Smiths Cider, Jimi Anderson, who would meet us atpointsthroughthetripandintroducetolocal craftsmen and producers of the region as we made ourwaydownsealedandgravelroads,exploring thebestofwhatthisregionhastooffer.Alongfor this ride would be Sydney rider Ciaran Durney andlocalBenOsborne.Thephotographersto documentourtripwouldbeJeffCurtesandTim Bardsley-Smith. ride.Thefirstdaywilltakeusacrosstheiconic Thecentrepieceoftheridewouldbeanight's TasmanBridgethroughHobartCBDandoverthe accommodationonSatelliteIslandasmall backoftheloomingskylineofMtWellington. island,partofthePartridgeIslandGroup,lying Awelcomeafternooncoffeeisenjoyedonthe closetothesouth-easterncoastofTasmania,in sideofthemountaininthewarmandinviting the D'Entrecasteaux Channel between Bruny comfortofLostFreight.MeganandChris'new Island and the Huon Valley on the Tasmanian ventureattheMtWellingtonspringsallowsour mainland.Aformerworkingfarm,ithasnowbeen fingerstothaw.Thecoffeeisgoodand,fuelledby convertedbythecurrentownersWillandKate the welcome dark liquid, we descend over the back intoaluxuryprivateislandescape.Surroundedby ofthemountaintotheHobartHideawayPodsjust an ancient fossil-clad rock shelf, it's home to an oursideofthecoastaloutersuburbofKingston. arrayoflocalshellfish,includingcrayfish,native Thehideawaypodsareexactlyasthenamesays: scallops, abalone and oysters. The island sleeps boutiqueeco-friendlypodshiddenawayinthe taking eightpeopleinsimpleluxury. rural part of the Mt Wellington foothills with intheviewofthe It'sacoolMaymorningwhenwemeettogether amazingviewsacrosstheDerwentEstuary.This atourfirstislandlandinginHobartairport,each accommodationisideallylocatedasourlaunching stillwatersand arriving from the various places we call home. pad for the exploration of the Huon Valley and Wehadpre-arrangedalocationtobuildupour Bruny Island region. moody skies of the bikes and have lunch at one of the local cheese D'Entrecasteaux and chocolate producers, Coal River Farm. Just a 10minutedrivefromtheairport,itwasanideal HEADING FOR BRUNY Channel...” locationtosetourselvesupandbeginthevibeof Thenextmorningwelaunchourselvesinto therestoftrip.Withbikesbuiltandridinggear theregion.It'swellknownforitsproduceand on, a selection of locally produced cheeses, cured weslipintoPeppermintBayforalunchof meats and coffee had us set and ready for our seafood, fish and meats while we wait for our WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 31

LEFT: The Tinderbox Loop heading towards the Bruny Island Ferry Terminal. BELOW: Salamanca Place in the Autumn Leaves. PREVIOUS PAGE: South Bruny gravel.

connecting ferry from the mainland to Bruny. Richard the caretaker and generally nice guy of The trip across on the ferry has us basking in our accommodation for the evening... the third the midday sun, lying on the deck and enjoying and final island in our journey, Satellite Island. It the 15-20 minute ride across to the second of is hard to describe your own island to explore and our Islands. Exploring Bruny can be as quick experience other than “take it from me, it is pretty and easy as taking a half-day cruise around the bloody cool”. The accommodation on the island island through to a longer stay revealing the many comprises a boat house and the main summer secrets of this special place. house which has a distinctly Nordic feel. While On the island for the first 30km we rolled the rest of the crew explore the island, Ben and along mostly quiet, sealed country roads through I decide it is a perfect opportunity to jump off the hills of North Bruny framed against farmland pier... the cold water of the channel taking our pastures. These give way to coastal grass and breath away. our first piece of Bruny Island gravel as we As evening settles on the island, time appears approach the thin piece of land that connects to slow. Exploring ceases, devices are put away North and South Bruny called the Neck. There's and people congregate around the fire pit. Ross a wonderful juxtaposition of the calm water of the O’Merea of Gourmet Farmer fame is busy by the D'Entrecasteaux Channel on our right and rolling fire preparing a meal of locally sourced game Tasman Sea crashing on our left. Set in perfect meats and vegetables from the island over the autumn afternoon light, we stop briefly to take in coals. As he cooks he describes his connection the view of possibly the most photographed part of to the region. A chef of 20 years, he explains the the island. change of life was driven by a need to get back The late afternoon is spent rolling our way from to the source of the food. The meal is served the Neck to Alonnah, one of two major settlements fireside and washed down with locally brewed on the island. Our anticipation grows as we make cider from Willies Smiths, accompanied by beer or way to the local pontoon where we are met by and cheese crafted by Bruny Island Cheese. 32 Southern Tasmania Project MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

This was a place and moment in time amazingly uniqueandunlikeanybikeridingholidayIor any other of the riders have ever experienced. Early the next morning there is more exploring ourprivateislandbybikes.Deerherdspassus by,andseaeaglescircleaswetravelaroundsea cliffstakingintheviewofthestillwatersand moodyskiesoftheD'EntrecasteauxChannel. Itiscalmandcoldwithrelaxedconversation andjokesalongtheway.Thereisawildand rawfeeltotheislandasyoulookbackacross the channel, enhanced by the winter clouds sweeping through.

SOUTH BRUNY Day three sees us again averaging around 100km ofriding.WemakethemoveontoSouthBruny and the landscape changes once again with open farming fields giving way to temperate forest. Sealedroadsturntosmoothgravelasweenter South Bruny National Park with towering cliffs overlooking long sandy beaches, coastal heathland andunderwatergardensofkelpseaweed.An imposing lighthouse greets us at the end of the road. The rolling swell of the Southern Ocean indicates that there is very little beyond this point, other than Antarctica. As we head back up the island,hungergrowsandourmindsturntothe and landscapes; it's as much about the meeting famous local produce; Bruny is home to producers localpeopleconnectingtotheircraftsandtheir specialisinginoysters,cheeseandchocolate.Our devotiontotheplacetheycallhome.Eachofus destination is the home of the best example of feels privileged and grateful that they have opened thelocalproduce,BrunyIslandCheese.Aftera their homes and businesses for us to experience longlunchwecheckoutthebrewery,andhead what they have to offer. brewer Evan Hunter talks us though his process That evening we're back in Hobart CBD at forproducinghislocalanduniquebeervarieties. theSalamancaInninthewaterfrontprecinct Brewingonthedayisthe'wheystout',blended reflecting on the past three days, our senses with whey from the cheese production process. buzzing. Recalling the diverse experiences of this Inthelateafternoonwemakeourwayback tripwiththesenowgoodfriends,weallfeelwe totheferryforourfinaldestinationoftheday. realisedourgoal,makingrealourplantojourney Jimi Anderson, head brewer of Willie Smiths, into and experience an 'unreal' destination. I'd like has invited us down to discuss and sample local tothankallofthelocalproducersandbusiness produceoftheHuonValley.Aswesitdiscussing owners for taking us in and treating us like family; with Jimi his local produce, cider and distillation, anexperiencethathumblesmeandmakesmeall youcan’thelpfeelingthatthisholidayhasnot the more proud that we can show you a glimpse of only been an opportunity to ride unique roads this special region.

LEFT: Morning start on Kingston Beachaswefollowthe coast to the ferry to Bruny. ABOVE: Waterworks Road, Mt Wellington linking us to the Derwent Channel.

Six Day Racing MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 34 BY KAREN FORMAN

Six Days Of Madison Madness WITH THE MADISON BACK IN THE OLYMPICS AND AUSTRALIANSONFIREINTHE EURO SIX DAY SERIES, WE TAKEALOOKATTHEEVENT ONCE SO HARSH THAT A JOURNALISTCALLEDFORITS PROPONENTS TO BE “INDICTED

AND SEVERELY PUNISHED”. IMAGES COURTESY OF RAY BOWLES AND MARCUS ARNOLD

OMETIMESITWASSOQUIETINTHEEARLY with.OriginallySixDayswereconductedaround hours of the morning, with the audience theclockbyasolorider. “Sallgonehome,thatwewouldridearound Thesedays,whenthelikesofthecurrentlybest slowly, leaning on each other, sleeping, reading a knownAussieSixDayheroes,CameronMeyerand newspaperorevensmoking.Weneededvitamins Callum Scotson, contest events like the London togiveusenoughenergytokeepgoing.Yeah, SixDay,theyrideanumberofeventsoverafew thosewerethecrazydaysoftheSixDays...it’sall hours-long program that is repeated for six days so different now.” (usuallyatnight)–withplentyoftimetosleep, LookingatthecomparativelyeasierSixDay eatandtalktacticsforthenextdayofracing.They trackcyclingeventsofthecurrentday,it’s competeasateamoftwothroughout,earning almost impossible and even slightly comical points towards the overall title. to picture the description from former Meyer,29,isaneight-timeworldchampionand professional Six Day rider, Bruno Zollfrank, one of Australia’s greatest ever track cyclists while who, having won the German Madison Scotson,21,isaworldchampionandRioOlympics championship as an amateur in 1976, turned silver medallist. professional from 1981 to 1987 and contested Having won the London Six Day in 2017, nineSixDayracesinEurope. gathering points in the Madison, elimination, Healsospentseveralyearsasacoachin derny, 10km scratch, Madison time trial and Australia,wherehehadracedforateamin1982, points race, the Adelaide-based pair are early andhemaintainsanactiveinterestinAustralian favouritestogetastartinthenewlyreturnedto cyclingtothisday. the Olympics Madison in Tokyo, 2020. Exhaustion notwithstanding, at least by the Without a doubt, the Six Day event is still tough timeZollfrankandothersofhiserastartedto –asanyamateurriderwhohastriedtobackup race, he had a partner to share the gruelling load for another round of track racing for a few days in Iacoponelli, Arnold, and Rigoni in the early morning neutral period of the Paris 5, 1952 36 Six Day Racing MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

arowwouldrelateto.Forexample:theTasmanian andSydneyChristmastrackcarnivalswhichboth run between Christmas and New Year. ButthemoderndaySixDayprobablywouldn’t bedescribedas“anathleticcontestinwhichthe participants‘goqueer’intheirheads”’norincite calls for people associated with it to be jailed!

ITSTARTEDWITHABET ThefirstSixDayeventwasanindividualtimetrial at the Agricultural Hall in Islington, London in 1878 when professional cyclist, David Stanton, bet aman100poundsthathecouldride1000milesin sixsuccessivedays,riding18hoursaday. Hestartedat6amonFebruary25andwonthe betin73hours,ridingonahigh-wheeledmachine at an average speed of 13.5mph. Somehow, the eventtookoff. Initially,riderswouldrideduringthedayand sleepatnight,butitwasn’tlongbefore,seekinga competitive edge, riders began competing 24 hours aday,limitedonlybytheirabilitytostayawake. The Brooklyn Daily Eagle newspaper reported: “Thewearandtearupontheirnervesandtheir muscles, and the loss of sleep make them [peevish andfretful].Iftheirdesiresarenotmetwithon the moment, they break forth with a stream of abuse. Nothing pleases them. These outbreaks do nottroublethetrainerswithexperience,forthey understand the condition the men are in.” Because more people came to watch as the sinkdeepinthehead,theirfeetswell,andall ABOVE: Fans in Charleroi, riders’ conditions worsened, the riders tended to the outward symptoms are those of approaching Belgium. Six Day racing be paid well. insanity”.Hethencalledfor“all…parties still runs at the Kuipke Acoupleofyearsearlier,TheHobartMercury, connectedwiththeshow[to]beindictedand stadium which opened in 1927 and was rebuilt after commenting on such a race held in New York, severely punished.” afirein1965. reported, “exhausted riders [were] lifted from and Perhapstheywerealreadybeingpunishedenough? on to their wheels and carried to and from their In1897,theNewYorktimeseditorialised:“[Six BELOW, LEFT: Belgians quarters, their joints swollen and inflamed, barely Dayracingis]anathleticcontestinwhichthe Patrick Sercu and Rik Van able to see, with wandering mind, and only kept participants...straintheirpowersuntiltheirfaces Steenbergen change in a conscious condition by the efforts of trainers become hideous with the tortures that rack them, during a Six Day race. and physicians.” isnotsport,itisbrutality.” Thesamejournalistthepreviousyearhad Toputitinperspective:thetwo-riderteams commented that “cheeks grow hollow, their eyes wouldoftencovermorethan4,000kmoverthesix daysoftheevent.Comparethattoamodernday TourDeFranceroadeventwhereteamsofnine racemorearound3,200kmover21days. Two-rider teams were introduced in 1899 and thefirstracewithteamsoftwotookplaceinNew York's Madison Square Garden, which is why this form of competition is still known today all around the world as the Madison (with a capital M).

SIXDAYSDOWNUNDER Cyclinghistorian,RayBowles,sayswiththe new cycling machines arriving in Australia from Englandinthelate1800s,itwasnaturalthe competitive challenge followed. “ThefirstofwhatweknowasaSixDayin Australia was for the 'high wheelers' and promoted asa'BicycleTournament'beginningonMonday December51881inMelbourne,”hesaid.“The venue was called the Pavilion opposite the Exhibition Building with a specially built wooden BOSSI FABRICA CX

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: An artist's impression of the solo Six Day held in the Exhibition Building 1882. An advertisement for Australia's first Six Day race in the Argus newspaper on November 23rd 1881, showing the solo rider event to start on December 5th. Program and tickets to the 1949 New York Six Day race

trackof12lapstothemile.Theracewasthesolo format with six riders willing to submit to the day bydayagonyinsearchofthefirstprizeof£50and a'MassiveGoldMedal'.Competitionwaslimited to twelve hours per day but designated 'go-as- you-please'meaningriderscouldchoosetheir amount of time on the track within the set limit, determinedbytheiregosandphysicalcapabilities. “The eventual winner was Jack Rolfe, a recognisedchampionfromVictoria,covering910 miles and eight laps.” RaysaysseveralmoresoloSixesoflikeformat followed in the next couple of years in Adelaide, Sydney,andanotherinMelbourne. ThencamealullinSixDaypromotionuntil thefirsttwo-manformatonthenewsleekracing bicycleswasconductedinJanuary1912atthe Sydney Cricket Ground. The winning combination wasAlfGoulletandPaddyHehircoveringa distancejustshortof2,087miles.Thesame pairing won again in the Melbourne Six Day held a fewweekslaterattheExhibitionOval. SixDayracingcontinuedonlyspasmodicallyuntil the 1950s, the continuity interrupted by the two

“Clark’s 234 starts for 73 wins McNamara,knownasthe'IronMan'whohad some700winsallupina20yearcareerbutalso WHATISASIXDAY? more broken bones than could be counted. Today’s modern Six Day is a behind Patrick Sercu ManyAustralianswentoverseasintheearly trackcyclingeventrunoversix 1900storaceinsearchofmoneyandfameand days comprising Madison races includingAlfGrendaofTasmaniawhofamouslyset wheretheoverallwinneristhe wars.Itwasinthe'50sthatprofessionalcycling aworlddistancerecordin1914ataSix-Daytrack team of two which completes developedstrengthinbothnumbersandrace event in Madison Square Garden, covering the most laps of the velodrome in programs which flowed into the '60s to become the equivalent of 4,440km. His record remains today. thetimeoftherace.Intheevent boomperiodforSixDayracinginAustralia. of teams completing the same “There were 42 Six Day races alone conducted number of laps, the winner is duringthe'60saroundmostcyclingcentresin THE VERSATILE DANNY CLARK the team with most points won Australia,” Ray says. Fastforwardafewyearstothe1950sand in intermediate competitions. “EuropeanSixriderswerebroughttoAustraliato Australian riders Reginald Arnold, Alf Strom, Sid As well as the ‘chase’ to gain enhance the field, the Italians often being either the PattersonandJohnTresidderweremakingnews laps over competitors, a typical goodguysorthebadguysdependingontheweight headlines. They were followed in the '70s and 80s Six Day program will include of spectator ethnicity. The great Sid Patterson was by riders like Graeme Gilmore, Don Allen and time trials, keirins, intermediate themostprolificwinnerthroughthatperiod,also DannyClark.Inthe'90sTomSawyer,Matthew sprints and elimination races. being the most popular rider and entertainer." GilmoreandScottMcGrorytriedtheSixDay In the main ‘chase’ or Madison SixDayracescontinuedinAustraliafor scene,withGilmorerackingup107SixDayraces events (so-called after Madison years,withthelastrace(untilrecently–keep asaprofessional.Clark’s234startsfor73wins Square Garden in New York reading)recordedinPerthin1989.They rankshimasthesecondgreatestSixDayman City where the two-man format continuedinEurope,however,attracks ofalltimebehindPatrickSercu. was devised), both riders may includingRotterdam,Berlin,ZurichandGhent For professional Six Day men like Arnold, be on the track at the same wheretheydrewlargecrowdsofspectatorsas Gilmore and Clark, the Six Days were not only time,takingitinturnstorace, well as Australian riders. sport,butalsoaratheraddictivewayoflife. hand-slinging each other Goulletwasoneofthesuccessfulridersofthat Fromtheirearliestdays,SixDaysgotunder back into action. period. Another notable Australian was Reggie the skin of both riders and punters, who filled BUILT FOR PASSION

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outsideofthetrack,andanight-clubinthecellar that opened at 2am when the racing finished. The start money for 24 riders at the Ghent Six in 2000 came to £333,000, although the organiser, PatrickSercu,saidhewascontractuallyboundnot tosaywhatindividualridersearned. According to Vélo magazine, specialists collected a minimum of €5,000 in 2002. But racing has not always been the only way to earn money via a Six Dayevent.Prizesareofferedduringtheraceand sometimes riders come up with their own creative waystoaddtotheirtakings. Australian,DannyClark,diditbysinging.“It startedin1979whenIwasracinginDenmark actuallyforasexmagazinecalledRapport,”hewas quoted as saying. “They offered me 1000 kroner if I wouldsing'MyWay'.Ihadthewordsonapieceof paperbutstartedtwochordshigherthanIshould have,andwhenthenotesgottoohigh,Ihadtostop. Istartedagain,gotthroughit,andit'sgoneonfrom there.Theratevaries.Iget2000deutschmarks for one song in Munich. When I started doing it regularlyinabout1980,Iwouldget500anight, and sometimes I'd sing on four nights.” RayBowlessaysDannyClarkwastheAustralian with by far the most overseas Six Day wins to hiscredit,butotherAussieswithmultiplewins includedDonAllan,ReginaldArnold,Graemeand MatthewGilmoreandScottMcGrory. Marcus Arnold, who spent years researching Six Day racing for his book, 'Reginald Arnold, SixDayMan',sayswhilethehistoryoftheSixDay eventcanbeconfusing,thebestwaytolookatit “Alf Grenda of Tasmania was as three really separate Six Day scenes. Arnold says the Australian domestic Six Day riderswerenotpureSixDayriders,butratherroad covering the equivalent riderswhoadaptedtotheSixDaytrackformat. “They were legends of the domestic scene here of 4,440km. His record remains standing today.” inthe'50sand'60s.Thereallynotablenames on the domestic scene were: Ron Murray, Keith Reynolds,JohnGreen,JohnYoung,PeterPanton, velodromeswiththeircigaretteandcigarsmoke BobRyan,RonGrenda,HiltonClarke,Barry and enthusiastically cheered on their favourites Waddell,BillLawrie,KeithOliver,MurrayHall… under the influence of a lot of beer (especially “AndtherewereafewdomesticSixesin in Germany and Belgium). Australia as well. The USA scene died and then it Today’sSixesdonotrun24/7forsixdays,but was just Europe and Australia. Then Australia died tend to involve six nights of racing on indoor tooanditwassolelyEuropeuntiltherevivalin velodromes, cover around 800km and include AustraliaoftheMelbourneSixin2016and2017.” support races other than the traditional two-up Butthefuturelooksbrightforthiscyclingdiscipline Madison,suchastimetrials,Keirins,sprintsand steepedintradition,controversy,deathandrevival. elimination races. InOctober2016aSixDaySerieswas There is no need for Madison riders to sleep announced for the 2016-2017 season, including uprightwhilepedallingtheirfixedwheelbikes, theSixDaysofLondon,Amsterdam,Berlinand leaningonwhoeverismoreawakeastheykeep Copenhagen, culminating in a one-night final to circling around the track even after the usually be held in Palma, Majorca in March 2017, with all very enthusiastic and often well-oiled audience has events broadcast by Eurosport. succumbed and gone home to bed. The2018eventsarewellunderway,withthe Andasforsmoking–whileaccordingto finale,London,setforOctober23-28. Zollfrank it was quite common among riders way MelbourneresurrectedSixDayracinglast back when—today’s riders wouldn’t pass a VO2 December, including a world-first Women’s Six. Winners of the first ever maxtestwithsuchsmokeintheirlungs. Olympian teams pursuiter Ashlee Ankudinoff and Women's Six-Day held recently in Melbourne were InEuropewhereSixDayracingismostpopular, Amy Cure won the women’s, Cameron Scott and AmyCure(rednumber) spectatorsmayalsobeentertainedbylivemusic LeighHowardwonthemen’sandthecrowdswere being thrown in by Ashlee and have access to restaurants and bars. big,enthusiasticandaslikea European Six Day Ankudinoff (black number). The Munich race featured a funfair around the crowd as Aussies can be! Breakng he frcton barre Any weather. Any terrain.

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Where Lycra Meets Lore AS CYCLISTS WE SPEND A LOT OF TIME EXPLORING THE WORLD AROUND US. BUT HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED ABOUT THE INDIGENOUS HISTORY THAT SURROUNDS YOU AS YOU TRAVERSE YOUR FAVOURITE ROUTES? PETER MANIATY HAS. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 43

LEFT: Sean Appoo and Ben Bowen founders of Shared Path. RIGHT: This TwoBlakBirds jersey transitions from vibrant pink to a dark indigo, colours taken from a local sarsaparilla variety indicating the changing of seasons.

IDING THROUGH THE SERENITY OF KU-RING-GAI While the duo originally looked to develop R Chase National Park, just north of Sydney, it’s guided corporate rides showcasing places of easy to forget the outside world. Native flora Indigenous significance in and around Sydney and wildlife abound, as do sublime ancient rock (something I was fortunate enough to get taste formations and pristine waterways flowing into the of in the writing of this article, a fabulous Hawkesbury. It’s also blissfully quiet; aside from the experience), the time-intensive venture struggled occasional car the noisiest things are the wind in to gain traction. The pair then turned their focus the trees, the eastern whipbirds and, depending on to riding apparel and TwoBlakBirds was born. the time of year, a cacophony of cicadas. It certainly “The goal was to bring story, heart and passion to doesn’t require too much imagination to get a sense the world of high-end cycling,” says Ben Bowen, a of what it must have been like here thousands of former elite triathlete and Wiradjuri man from the years ago, long before white settlement. On solo rides Gadigal and Wangal lands today often referred to as I often find myself wondering about the lives of the Sydney’s inner west. “TwoBlakBirds is a brand for original inhabitants of these places. Who were they? Indigenous and non-Indigenous cyclists that looks Where did they live? How did they spend their days? good and keeps you culturally informed, whether Enter Sean Appoo and Ben Bowen, you’re on the bitumen or getting dirty on the trails.” two proud Indigenous Australians and By way of example, Bowen points out the first “Shared Path is Co-Founders of Shared Path, a not- TwoBlakBirds kit (released in late 2017 via Swiss for-profit organisation dedicated to manufacturer, Cuore) is known as ‘Parra’dowee’. supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and “Parra’dowee is one of the seasons observed by business ventures. While the two men the D’harawal Nation which follows the east coast originally met working for the National of Sydney down to the Shoalhaven,” says Bowen. Centre of Indigenous Excellence in “It refers to the first part of summer and is all Redfern, both are also keen cyclists so about the activation of the coastline: the ocean, it’s perhaps unsurprising bicycles feature bays, beaches and rivers.” to facilitate better prominently in many of their projects. Bowen goes on to explain the kit design – This includes the intriguing riding created in collaboration with Brisbane-based outcomes for us all.” apparel brand ‘TwoBlakBirds’ Indigenous art, design and communications that launched last October. agency, We Are 27 Creative – captures many “TwoBlakBirds brings together two of of the key elements, or signifiers, of the our great passions: Aboriginal culture and cycling,” Parra’dowee season. “There are many signifiers explains Sean Appoo, a Kabi Kabi and Birri Gubba that indicate a season is approaching, upon us descendent who was born and raised on the lands and coming to a end,” he says with equal doses of of the Gureng Gureng in Bundaberg, Queensland. entrepreneurial vigor and reverential wisdom. “We were looking for ways to help connect cyclists “These involve the land, sky, plants and animals. with the Aboriginal Culture and heritage of the The two key elements used in the Parra’dowee places they ride through every day.” kit are the sarsaparilla and gold wattle plants. 44 TwoBlakBirds MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

that looks good and keeps you culturally informed.”

This is where the real change comes, shifting the national conversation from a deficit view focused on Indigenous disadvantage and social issues, to hugelypositiveinteractionsallowingpeopletoshow theirprideinwearingitaswellasarmingthemwith knowledge they can use to engage in conversations that hold Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peopleinapositivenewlight.” ABOVE&RIGHT:SharedPath “We’ve [Indigenous Australians] been here for is in negotiations to provide a averylongtimeandseenlargescalechanges, mobile bicycle maintenance at eventheriseandfalloficeages,”headds.“We Barangaroo in the Sydney CBD. understand small, incremental changes can have large-scale impacts over time.”

QUALITY KIT WITH A QUALITY STORY Richbackstoryornot,animportantmeasure ofanycyclingkitishowitperformsonthe Thedesigntellsthestoryoftheimpactthese road.Fromapurelyaestheticperspectivethe ABOUT SHARED PATH have on our lives, including seasonal eating, Parra’dowee kit looks sensational, the perfect All TwoBlakBirds products are fire management, travel, safe places, ceremony, blend of tradition and contemporary design. sold to support the work of connection to country, as well as environmental Combinedwiththehigh-qualitydesignandrapidly Shared Path, a not-for-profit impacts and controls.” growing reputation of Cuore, it’s sure to make an Indigenous Business Incubator “The flowering of the gold wattle signifies the outstandingadditiontoanyAustraliancyclist’s createdinlate2014thathelpsto whalesaremakingtheirjourneysouthwardwith wardrobe. The good news is more designs are on provide true self determination theiryoung,theeels(featuredonthebackofthe the way too. for Aboriginal and Torres Strait jersey) are moving up the rivers to breed and fish “We’relookingtoreleasenewkitdesignsforall Islander people through the aremovingintothelocalbaysandrivers,”Bowen six seasons in the D’harawal calendar,” explains financial freedom of employment continues.“Therearealsoseveralvarietiesof Sean Appoo. “Burran is the next season so we're and the creation of businesses. sarsaparillaplantfoundaroundSydney,they’re workingonthatnow.Whilewe’recompletingthe Working budgets are generated valuedfortheirmedicinalpropertiesandarehigh D’harawalcalendarwe’retalkingwithWurundjeri by delivering consultative in Vitamin C. The sarsaparilla we’ve selected (Melbourne), Gunai Kurnai, Taungurung, services to Government, large forthedesigngoesthroughatransformation Wathaurong and Gunditjmara mobs to do the same organisations and community fromavibrantpinkflowertoadarkindigoberry, thinginVictoria.We’realsoplanningakitandride groups, which are then the transition between these colours gives us a eventinByronBay.Inthenextcoupleofyearsit invested into the development timeline though the season.” wouldbegreattodosomethingwiththeTourDown of smaller Indigenous-based With each kit design inspired by elements UnderoraNationalRoadSeriesteam.” enterprises that currently include of Indigenous culture, Bowen explains all “To us, success is more than just dollars and TwoBlakBirds, Cultural Tourism TwoBlakBirdspurchasescomewithadetailed profitmargins,”addsBowen.“It’screatingchange andWorkshopsatQStationin information card explaining the significance and throughknowledge,empoweringself-determination Manly and Blak Artisan. Shared heritagebehindit,aswellasalinktoadesign- and freedom of choice through employment and Path is also in negotiations specificpodcast.It’snotjustamarketinggimmick economic development. I would love to see the toprovideamobilebicycle either; creating deeper Indigenous awareness and brandgrowtohavenewdesignseachcalendaryear, maintenance enterprise as part understanding amongst the wider community has sharingstoriesfromallofourNationsaroundthe of the corporate end-of-trip thepotentialtodriveveryrealbenefits. countrytocreateasustainablesmallenterprise facilities at Barangaroo in the “Wereallyseethisasa‘skippingstone'effect,” that directly employs and engages Aboriginal and SydneyCBDtoservicebikes says Bowen. “On its own a piece of cycling clothing, Torres Strait Islander people. Beyond that, we’d love whilepeoplework.Findoutmore likeasmallstone,isn’tgoingtochangemuch Australian cyclists to have a deeper understanding at www.sharedpath.org.au whenthrown.Buttheskippingeffectcancreate oftheIndigenouslanguages,culturesandlands multiple ripples, or conversations, across the water. they live in and ride through every day.” 01404BBO

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HowtoHandle Headwinds

AGOODPOWERTOWEIGHTRATIOCANPAYBIGDIVIDENDSON CLIMBING COURSES, BUT OUTRIGHT POWER WILL TRIUMPH IN FLAT AND WINDY CONDITIONS. DAVID HEATLEY SHARES HIS TIPS ON BATTLING CROSS AND HEADWINDS.

HENITCOMESTOCYCLINGEVENTS,ORGANISERS turnsanddrivethebunchashardastheycan. look for courses that are safe and scenic. Theroadusuallyhasenoughwidthforfouror W Butmorerecentlytherehasbeenafew five of them to form an echelon and roll turns. By cyclingeventsintroducedhereinAustraliathat doingso,theycansharetheloadatthefrontwhile havefocusedonincludingthesteepestorlongest getting shelter from the crosswind off each other. climbsintheareatomaketheirride'challenging'. Ifyouaren’tstrongenoughtorollturns,then Butthereisanothertypeoftoughnessthatcan you’llbepartofthelonglinethatformsbehind bebuiltintoeventcourses.It’saneventcourse themontheleewardsideoftheroad.Ifyouare with long stretches of flats, prevailing crosswinds inarace,you’llbetryingtogetasmuchshelter andundulation.Acoursethatismoresuitedtoa whileridingonastripoftheroadnomore10 powerrider.Itissomethingthatridersmaywell centimetreswide!And,muchasyoutrytoget find during events like the Clare Classic. shelter,therewon’tbemuchofit.Thismeans Sittinginabunchdoing45kphonaflatsection that you’d have to produce almost as much power ofroadiseasyonceyoumastertheartofgettingas as the front riders just to hold your position. aeroaspossible—findingthebiggestridertositon Theotherthingisflatcourseswith MAIN:Newcourseslikethe and holding your position. undulations. You’ll be in the bunch sitting tight undulating Clare Classic have loads to offer...including Whereitallgoespear-shapediswhenthe whilemovingalongat45kphthenyou’llhitan fast bunches. Time to brush crosswinds spring up in these rides. undulation.You’llgofromhavingtoproducea up on your echelon and Thepowerridersusuallytakeadvantageofa normalamountofpowerontheflat,topunching pacelining skills. situation by heading to the front to start rolling out some big watt efforts over the rises. The first WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018

few will take it out of you; then it is only a make sure that you position yourself on the matter of time before one of them will end you if leeward side of the bunch before the turn. That you aren’t careful with your power management. way you aren’t out in the wind for the entire If you are a stronger rider, you are going to section of road with the crosswind before you absolutely love these courses. You ride them turn the next corner into a tail or headwind. hard! With your powerful legs, you’ll be able • If you aren’t strong enough to roll turns at to drive into the crosswinds and punch over the front in a crosswind, then sit as close the undulations all day long. You’ll smash over as possible to the riders that are. The ideal your competition and see them get dropped position is the gatekeeper position which is one by one. directly behind them, but two or three riders For the rest of us here are some tips: behind them is still ok. You’ll get the most • If you are strong enough to roll turns in a amount of shelter available and have less crosswind, then do so. It’s more efficient chance of a rider in front of you dropping a because you are sheltered for longer than being wheel. Also, it’s a lot smoother the closer you behind the riders rolling turns out in the wind. are to the riders rolling turns. The more riders In handicap races I would sit in when we have a between you and the riders rolling turns the head or tail wind, so I could save my energy to more surges you must deal with. These small roll turns when we had a crosswind. but frequent bursts of power required for you • Just before you transition from a headwind or to hold your position will eat away at your tailwind to a crosswind section of the course energy reserves. 48 Survive the Wind MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

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Echelon Sports in conjunction with SRAM, Zipp&Quarqhavealong standing commitment to supporting events that contribute to sport, health, wellbeing and importantly which cover a mixed participation level environment for all participants toenjoy.Thisincludesatruecommitmenttothe community and the organisers of these events to make them safe and challenging, while future proofing such events for returning and new participants. BZ Fire Mirror Black BZ +1+1.1 5 Reader White AUG 26 2018

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The Way Forward GRACIE ELVIN TALKS CYCLIST’S ALLIANCE, GRASSROOTS INVOLVEMENT AND THE CHANGES COMING TO WOMEN’S SPORT

outover450ridersurveysfrom every UCI-registered team. With over 300 responses, the message was clear: change needs tohappenforthesporttogrow, and that time for change is now. Even in her sixth year riding asaprofessional,Elvinsaysshe was shocked by the results. It was revealed that nearly half of the women’s UCI peloton races for less than $8000 in a year, with 17.5percentofthatgroupgoing completely unpaid, and nine outof10signedtheircontracts without any legal assistance. Note: While a male WorldTour riders can expect a minimum of $46,500, in women’s cycling, thereisnominimumwageand many female ‘pro’s’ must hold downapart-timejobtosurvive. Wages aside, the survey also revealed a critical need for health

IMAGES © CON CHRONIS CON © IMAGES insurance, career guidance and a trustworthy entity that hears and voices riders’ concerns and E’D OFTEN RIDE NEXT TO “Wejustsawtheneedfor protects their collective interests eachotherinraces better rider representation… well when it comes to contracts, “Wandchat…inthe any rider representation, because disputes and rider safety. neutralzonebeforetheflaghad there is none at the moment,” dropped,” Elvin told Bicycling explained Elvin. IT'S NOT ABOUT Australia. “I always enjoyed “Women’s cycling is going in talkingtoher[formerUCI the right direction, but we wanted THE MONEY Women’s Committee member to make sure it keeps going in While Elvin’s the first to admit Iris Slappendel]. Sometimes thatdirectionandmaybealittle she’sbeenreallyluckyoverthe we’dbeataraceandwe’dbe quicker,” Elvin told Bicycling yearswithfinancialsupport, like‘ohtheydidthisreallywell, Australia. she’s quick to point out that theycoulddothatbetter’.We throwingmoredollarsatthe tended to just keep having those IS WOMEN’S CYCLING issueisjusta‘Band-Aidsolution' conversations.” toalargerproblem. Itwasn’tuntillate2017that REALLY THAT BAD? “It'snotacaseofbeggingfor those conversations finally Women racing in the professional equalprizemoneyorforcing amounted to action for Slappendel, peloton have long since fought ABOVE:“Wetrainashardasthe regulators like the UCI to Elvin and American Carmen forbetter(orany)pay,race men. We diet, we don’t go out, make rules that there needs Small who proudly launched opportunitiesandsafety.Sofar, wesleepwell,andweplanour to be minimum prize money. the first ever women’s rider it’sbeenalosingbattle.Buthow races…And to see riders doing it for It’sreallyabout‘howcanwe union: The Cyclist’s Alliance. bad is it really? nothingisprettyhardtowatch...”. get women’s cycling out there Elvin sums up the alliance as Although many women had in the media more’ and how OPPOSITE PAGE: After a aplatformtogiveriderspower experienced inequality in the successful summer of cycling, canwegetthosesponsorsand to make decisions that affected sportfirst-hand,intheSpring Elvin now turns her attention to organizers better exposure.” them on a personal level as well of2017,itwasSlappendel the European season and her “We train as hard as the men as the sport itself. herself who compiled and sent work with The Cyclist's Alliance. do… we train with the men. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 53

Wediet,wedon’tgoout,wesleep well, and we plan our races… Andtoseeridersdoingitfor nothingisprettyhardtowatch… andit’snotgoodenough.” Andshe’sright.Whilethe obvious solution would be having a minimum wage for female professional cyclists, it’s notthatsimple. During the 2013 election campaign of recently replaced UCI president Brian Cookson, talks of developing women’s cyclingwereripeandthe introduction of a minimum wage wasusedasthecornerstoneto hiscampaign.Afterasuccessful election however, he soon came to a dire conclusion: “The women who have been involved in the Women’s Road Commission have told me that theresultofthat[creatinga minimumwage]wouldnot be 500 women suddenly being paid the minimum wage,” said Cookson, “they’ve told me that actually most of the teams that currently present themselves as professional teams would fold or re-registerasamateurteams,so theywouldn’tenduppayingthose women anything at all anyway.” that’sgoingtobebetterfor “Onahigherlevel,keep “...nearly half of women’s cycling,” said Elvin. talking about it, keep the women’s UCI Throughthismodel,true encouraging professional riders SO WHAT’S THE SOLUTION? WorldTour teams would have youknowtojoinortoatleast WellaccordingtoElvin,it’s peloton races adifferentsetofexpectations consider what they think is simple:lessismore. and regulations, including a importanttothissportandhow “You don’t need to spread setnumberofracedays,riders they think they can be part of the thesporttoothin”,saidElvin. perrosterandofcourse, change and hopefully that’s with “Creatingbetterstorylinesin minimum wage. us.Somanypeoplejustaccept theraces,betterseries’and the way things are and we just better opportunities for teams don’t think that’s good enough.” to come to those races is going SO WHAT CAN YOU DO? Non-professional cyclists, and tomakeabigdifference…just AccordingtoElvin:“Atthe generalsupportersofequality creating a bit more equity within lowest level, just watching within women’s cycling can also women’s teams is going to be a anything that’s available to support The Cyclist’s Alliance big difference.” watch because people are by donating to the cause at “Wemightloseafew lookingatwhoiswatchingthese cyclistsalliance.org. women’s races that are aligned races, [and] they’re looking with the men’s races along at the rates of what’s being Keepalookoutonourwebsitefor the way but I think ultimately streamed and watched on TV.” the extended edition of this article. 20-22 APRIL 2018 GEAR UP

“BATHURST, THE CYCLING MIRACLE OF NSW” Bicycling Australia April 2017 22 APRIL 2018

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Masterclass BY SARAH HUNTER

Functional Moves for 5Cyclists WE OFTEN HEAR THE TERM FUNCTIONAL TRAINING BANDIEDAROUNDTHESEDAYS,ITSEEMSTOBEPARTOF THENEWFADSINTHESPORTSPERFORMANCEINDUSTRY. BUT WHAT ACTUALLY CONSTITUTES GOOD FUNCTIONAL TRAINING FOR YOUR EVERYDAY CYCLIST?

ADLY, A LOT OF FUNCTIONAL Functional must be purposeful— training you may see on itmustberelatedtoyourgoal. S theinternetthesedays Ifweanalysemostofour hasverylittlecarry-overinto lives, the ratio of time spent actually making you a stronger, sitting versus time spent being faster athlete. Just because a athletic in any shape or form is particular functional exercise highly skewed towards sitting. maylooklikeaspecifictask So we need some exercises that you are trying to achieve, it help our body recover from doesn’t necessarily mean it will allthistimespentsittingplus provide the results you some foundational (rather than are after. functional) exercises to give us Ithinkthetermfunctional more leg strength and power trainingwasarevoltagainst during the pedal stroke. training isolated movements NowIhaveyourattention andtrainingonmachinesinthe with the cool buzz-phrase of gym. Before this revolution we functional training, we are going actually already had functional tolookatthebestbangforyour training,andformostofusthis buckexercisesacyclistcando is the standard squat, deadlift, to improve power, speed and push and pull. strength on the bike. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 57

1. KETTLEBELL 1 AND ½ GOBLET SQUAT

Why do this exercise? This is one of the easiest squats to master and, executed with the correct form, it can massively blast your core as well as your legs. Holding the load in front of the body forces your upper back to stay extended and helps reinforce good posture. This front loading also forces the core to work extra hard to keep the body upright. Stay tall and sit the torso down between the legs. Note the slight forward lean of the torso: this stops you from overextending the lumbar spine, and should force you to use your core muscle much more than you may be used to in this exercise. Hold the squat position at the bottom for a count of three before coming only halfway up then descending back to the bottom for another hold of three before finally coming all the way up. That is one squat. Complete a total of five squats. As you progress over time, you should find you can load this up to a maximum of half your body weight, before the upper body starts to become the limiter in terms of strength. Note that if you do not have a kettle bell then a dumbbell held vertically will be a good substitute. 58 Masterclass | Functional Moves MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

2. SINGLE LEG RDL (ROMANIAN DEADLIFT)

Whydothisexercise? Withoutadoubt,thisisoneofthepivotalexercisestomastertoenhanceathleticperformanceandmuscle function. Sadly it is also one those exercises that is butchered a lot. ThetwomaindifferencesyoumayseeinthisversionoftheRDLcomparedtothestraightlegversionyoumay beusedto.Firstlythesupportinglegmaintainsaslightbendor‘softknee’position.Keepingthesupportingleg overly straight places undue stress on the hamstring, making it more vulnerable to injury. By keeping this leg bent it also allows the glutes to be targeted, rather than it being solely a hamstring exercise. The second point is the elevated leg is bent at 90 degrees throughout the entire movement. This is functional: it is the most natural waytoactivatethehipflexorsand produce torque. Unless you are a gymnast I would stay away from straightlegRDLsastheydon'tcross over to producing power on the bike. Keep the spine neutral, send the hips back and keep them tall as you hinge over. Try to hold the bottom positionforacountofthreebefore returning to upright. The rear leg doesn'ttouchthegroundduring theentireset.CompletefiveRDLs on one leg before repeating on the other side. It is more than likely that you will find this exercise pretty challenging to start with, but stick with it, as the improvements in your balance and symmetrical power will be noteworthy for sure.

3. SPLIT STANCE BENT OVER ROW

Why do this exercise? Holding the stride position mimics more closely the leg position when riding, and this version of the row will very quickly expose any asymmetries you may have and therefore help address them to make you a more balanced cyclist. The split-stance bent-over variation is a little more spine-friendly, typically bent-over rows can be quite demanding on the lower back. The row targets the back, particularly the lats, and helps stabilise the body and provides strength for sprinting. Assume a lunge position with the rear heel pointing up towards the sky. From here, hinge at the hips, keeping your hips tall and your spine neutral, being mindful to not let your shoulders round. From this position do 2-3 rows, being careful to not ‘over-row’ at the top of the movement. Your arms should stop when your triceps are level with your back. After 2-3 rows, stand up and repeat the 2-3 rows, then switch legs and repeat with the other leg forwards. EASY. SAFE. FAST. UST ® THE ONLY STANDARD IN ROAD TUBELESS

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4. KETTLEBELL GOBLET 1 AND ½ LUNGE

Whydothisexercise? thesky.Therearhealstayselevatedfortheentireexercise.Maintaina Theforceproductiononthebikehappensonelegatatime,soitmakes slight forward lean of the torso—again this forward leaning body position sense to train the legs in this fashion as well. Much like the goblet squat, remains the same for the duration of the exercise. Keeping the kettlebell this goblet lunge also loads the front of the body, therefore requiring held tight to your body in the goblet position, brace your core like crazy greatercoreactivationtoperformtheexercisecorrectly. and drop the back knee vertically straight down toward the floor (but Lungescanbeperformedwithalongerorshorterstance.Thelonger don’t touch the floor). Hold the bottom position of the lunge for a count of stance targets the glutes and hips more, whereas the shorter stance threebeforecominguponlyhalfway,thendescendingagainandholdthe targets the quads. Either way, the mechanics and teaching points of both bottom position for a count of three. Drive back up to the top of the lunge lunges remains the same. position, making sure most of the weight is pushing through your front Be prepared to be humbled by this variation of the lunge. heel, and repeat five times before switching to the other leg. Make sure Assume the lunge position again with your rear heel pointing towards your front knee stays behind your toes during the lunge.

5. CABLE MACHINE ROPE PALLOF PRESS

Whydothisexercise? This is an exercise which actually trains the core for what is it designed to do which is resist rotation. Funnily enough our core isn’t designed for crunches and sit ups! This variation of the Pallof press uses the cable machine. You can have the cable set at the lowest settingoranywhereuptochestheight.Youonly need very light weights for this – here I am using 5kg.Ifyouarehavingahardtimekeepingyourhips from moving then you are using too heavy a weight. Take hold of the rope and position your hands at about handlebar width apart, and then step out fromthecabletostandwithfeetabouthipwidth apartandaslightbendintheknees.Startingwith your arms about ¾ extended push the rope away from you to finish with your arms 90% extended. Themovementisverysmall.Makesurethatyou keep your shoulder relaxed during this exercise as thereisatendencyforthemtocreepuptowards your ears. Complete 5-6 reps on each side. SCHWALBE X-ONE

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X-ONE BITE: 33-622 (370G) X-ONE ALLROUND: 33-622 (370G) Fuel | The Cancer Cycle MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 62 BY DAVID O’REILLY

The Survivor “CANCERISREALLYWHENIFELLINLOVEWITHTHEBIKE.”NOTWORDSYOU EXPECT TO HEAR ON YOUR GROUP RIDE, BUT FOR SOME CYCLING IS MORE THAN KILOMETRES: IT’S HEALING. RESEARCHERS ARE STEADILY STARTING TOUNRAVELTHEMIRACULOUSLINKSBETWEENEXERCISEANDCANCER, BUT OTHERS DISCOVERED THE LINK LONG BEFORE SCIENCE EVER DID.

WHEREITALLBEGAN really do anything. Some friends knewatthetime.In2018,short “Growingup,IwasanAFL droppedoffaWattBikethatwas high-intensity exercise especially footballerplayingatthetoplevel, purchased for a cycle studio we wasagainshownpositive,and astatelevelbasketballerand were planning to start up, so I potentiallyidealforthosewho addicted to sports.” That’s Justin putitintheloungeroomandI aretimepoorandfatigued, in McLean, founder of Thrivor and starteddoingfiveminutesaday. and around treatment. cancersurvivor.“Iwentthrough It felt like three hours. Somehow, amessydivorceinmylate20s my story got momentum on social andmywayofrespondingto mediaandfromthereIkept NO CONTROL adversity was to double down meeting new people who taught “There are two things that onacorporatecareer.Imade meaboutthebike.Ijustkept happen when you get cancer, you partnerinrecordtimeandlostall learning more which became my losechoiceandyoulosecontrol. the world of sport I loved growing freedom, and the journey carried Everydayyougetoutofbed up. Sometime later I met my itself from there.” andit'sdonetoyou.Theywake current partner on a flight. She youat3:00amandit'sdoneto wasanairhostesswhohappened you.Youhavenocontrolover tobeafitnessfanatic.Shewas THETHINREDLINE theprocess.Youhavenochoice like 'I kind of like you and you “There was an ABC story about as to what is going to happen. are great to be around but you're ayearagoexaminingtherole Soforme,ridingabikeforfive quitefat.Ifwe'regoingtogoout, offitnessincancerandhow minutes,eightminutes,orona you can't live on Hungry Jacks!’ previously doctors suggested great day 12 minutes, that was IlikedherbutI'dalreadyhad being careful with your body. one little thing I had control over three knee reconstructions from Ididtheoppositeandbasically during my dark days. That's why previoussports,soIcouldn't red-lined myself during chemo, I've given birth to Thrivor, an pick up running. So about 24 as that was my ‘up yours’ to organisation that assists those monthsbeforeIwasdiagnosed cancer. Does it correlate to the dealingwithcancer.Wewant withcancerIfoundthebike fact that I got a great outcome people to be more than survivors, and began to enjoy the mental and I'm still on planet earth? I we want them freedom it gave me. I did 20km, don’tknow.I'mabusinessguy, to thrive.” then 40km and the exhilaration notadoctor,butifIlookedat released my sporting days back to thetoxinsshootingintomybody me... but I wasn't obsessed.” everyday,Ithought“Howcanit ROAD TO CORSICA hurtsweatingoutalltheanxiety “I travelled a lot with work and one-year-old, a four-year-old and and the toxins?” My hospital got thought Corsica was the most 16-year-old. So when you beat THE DIAGNOSIS annoyed and told me to calm beautiful place on earth, nestled this thing, we're all going to “When I was diagnosed, my downbutIthought,“Screwyou, between the bottom of France ride Corsica and kiss the top of fightorflightresponsewasto doyouknowwhat'sgoingonin andthetopofItaly.It'ssmaller everysinglemountainweclimb.' reallyattackcancer.Ifeltit my world? Do you have cancer!?” than Tasmania but there is Duringthestory,Ibecamegood was incredibly unfair that I was From my personal experience really nobody there. When I got friends with Rapha founder, diagnosedat40.Theunfairness and watching others do the diagnosed,Iwas50/50onthe SimonMottram,whosaidhe wasconfrontingandsothebike same,allIcansayiscyclingis outcome and my partner and wanted to follow me and make became my release. As the chemo not going to harm you.” somebuddiesturnedupatmy afilm,whichendedupbeing and radiation became stronger Althoughareviewofthe door one night when I was in a called‘CancertoCorsica’.It’s andstrongerIcouldn'tgoouton evidencein2012showedexercise really dark place and said 'You notamovieaboutme,it'sabout theroadbecauseofhowmuchit during active treatment may havenochoice.Youhavetobeat thechildwhohasjustbeen attacks your body, so I couldn’t prove beneficial, Justin never this thing because you have a diagnosed, or those battling WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 63

“‘Find your Corsica’ became a metaphor for doing things you've always wanted to do...

© GRUBER IMAGES cancer right now. ‘Find your world cancer experience but I fatigue, depression, and sleep, Corsica’ became a metaphor was lucky enough to have people above expectations, through all for doing things you've always who rallied around me. This stages of the cancer cycle. wanted to do. is critical.” I was able to celebrate and Physical and mental gains are was fortunate enough to live, only scratching the surface for GIVING BACK but there was a bunch of people those participating in exercise “I own a cycle studio called there who are no longer with pre- and post-cancer. Evidence The Spin Room in Melbourne. us. If you look at the end of the points to changes in overall I bought it and said I'm going documentary there is a photo qualityoflifeincludingbody to help others and it’s going of about 20 of us kissing a image, self-esteem, anxiety, exceptionally well and so we're mountain, including Richie Porte social function, and pain. ABOVE: Justin McLean found looking to open the second who came along. I appreciate not This only adds to the growing his 'Corsica' on the bike and is one. The Spin Room appears in everyone is going to have a first evidence that exercise assists spreading the word. ‘Cancer to Corsica’ —you’ll see | 64 Fuel The Cancer Cycle MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

exampleofwhatonepersonwith rarely recommend an exercise alittlebitofdrivecan do to help program. And I’m dedicated to cancer survivors. changing that.“

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS EXERCISE PRESCRIPTION “I have always been interested “The best type of exercise is the in an exercise profession. one that you will do! Typically, Fortunately,Ilandedajobas the biggest physical change apersonaltrainerinalarge post-cancertreatmentisthe Globo gym in 2003 and it loss of lean muscle that comes wastherethatImetmyvery from being inactive. For most first cancer survivor. Kim is survivors, I recommend that they anow15-yeartriple-negative starttorebuildthis,withintheir breast cancer survivor who abilities. Cycling is a fantastic isnowpartofmycancer form of exercise for someone who program. When I met Kim she is deconditioned but additional shared with me the physical benefitwouldbefoundina andemotionaleffectsofher programthatalsoincludes cancer experience. I remember resistancetrainingtoefficiently thinking exercise would help build their functional ability. her.Lookingback,Iwasboth This combination will get them naïve and bold or accidentally backtowheretheydesirefaster aheadofthecurve.Nowwe than a one-track approach.” havethousandsofclinicaltrials that prove safety and efficacy foralltypesofcancersurvivors, PRACTICAL TIPS © GRUBER IMAGES showing significant benefits Sami has three suggestions for from exercise.” those looking to enhance their cancer journey, “Move daily, eat it's as grungy as you can get. protein and find your 'thing'". “Frommypersonal Wehavetwosimplerules:Don't BUILTTOMOVE Focusonmovementthatgets experience and be an idiot just because you “Weashumansaremadeto youtoyourgoalbutsomething rideabike,andsecondlygreat move,notbesedentary,which is always better than nothing. watching others equipment, great distraction. iswhy,inlargepart,Ifeelthat Enjoy quality protein, especially It'sagreatlittlecommunityof chronic disease is on the rise. whileundergoingtreatmentto do the same, cyclists,andwetrytogiveback Iabsolutelyfeelthatexercise support your tissues healing. tothecommunity.MyNew willimprovemanyconcerns Most people need much more Year's resolution: spend more forsurvivorsincludinglossof than what than clinically timeonabike.Justanice 75km. muscle which leads to daily recommendedminimum.Ifyou Enough to feel it.” challenges such as attempting donothavekidneyissuesthen stairs or even getting ready youneedtogoup.Finally,do DEFENDING THE fortheday.Topthisoffwith somethingeverydaythatyou anxiety, depression and the find restorative or replenishing. FRONTLINE fear of recurrence and cancer Cancer takes a lot of joy out of “The survival rate for most takesawayyourcontrol,taking lifeanditiscriticaltokeepyour cancersisincreasingbutnearly overyourlife,alwayswiththe emotional well-being in check. every patient wonders what potential outcome of death. This 'thing' will be different theiroutcomewillbe.That, Doctors are very often focused foreveryonebutitisabsolutely in addition to most clinicians on the cancer, treatment vital.” lacking true knowledge protocols, and patient survival. I think everyone agrees. Find on recommendations of With increasing evidence your Corsica. FROM TOP: McLean's positive exercise,leadstoverylimited and experience, the majority attitude and drive to succeed is encouragement,” says Sami of doctors that I work with TolearnmoreaboutJustin,visit contagious ad empowering. Mansfield, a Cancer Exercise aresupportivetoexercise thrivor.com, watch Cancer to Summitingeachmountainas Specialistwhostandsinthegap butaren’ttypicallytheones CorsicaonYouTubeorfindthe they rode through Corsica, the between clinicians and patients, to move the conversation Thrivorappintheappstore.To bunch stopped to kiss the ground, dishing out good functional forward.So,whiletheyare find out about what Sami is doing celebrating all life's achievements. movement. Sami is a shining not always a barrier, doctors check out cancerwellnessforlife.com WWW.3T.BIKE

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www.echelonsports.com.au | [email protected] | 07 3457 9900 MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 66 TEST LAB 66Smart Trainers 92 Bossi Titanium 96 Trek Domane SL7 100 Giant Propel

Smart Trainers BY MICHAEL HANSLIP Smart Trainer Buyers’ Guide

INTHEPASTWEDEBATEDTHEPROS ANDCONSOF'WIND'VERSUS'MAG' VERSUS'FLUID'STYLETRAINERS,AND THERELATIVEMERITSOFTHEIRSUPPORT STRUCTURE. WITH THE ADVENT OF THE SMART TRAINER, INDOOR TRAINING HASBEENREVOLUTIONISEDANDALLOF THESE TRAINER STYLES ARE OLD NEWS. MICHAEL HANSLIP SHARES HIS THOUGHTS ONBUYINGANEWDEVICEANDREVIEWS A SELECTION OF THE NEW INTERNET ENABLED TRAINERS. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 67 68 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

LMOST ALL THE BIG NAMES IN home trainers now A makesatleastone modelthatwillallowyouto engage in virtual training. Many brands have their own proprietary (or open) virtual training platform and there arenumerousindependent options as well. Everyone I know, however, who trains indoors now unites around a singleplatform–Zwift–and thesmarttrainerissimplya meanstothisvirtualreality end(seeBoxOne). IhadneverZwiftedbeforethis review.Ido,however,enjoythe useofasmarttrainer.Iuseone in'erg'mode,whichisapower- controlledmode.Nomatter howfastorslowonepedals,the resistance of the unit is adjusted to provide the prescribed power output.Thisbringstheopposite- to-outdoors feeling that the faster you pedal, the easier it gets (power=forcexcadence). Trainers, smart or otherwise, areoftwobasictypes;wheel on and wheel off. There are advantages to each type. Leaving your wheel on is simple, but it is only as secure theonlysmarttrainerIhad spectrum:BkoolGo!andKurt as the connection between usedpriortoundertakingthis Road Machine Smart are the therearwheelskewerandthe review. Being very happy with entry-level options in this trainer frame (virtually all theKickr,eachofthereview groupbeingtheonlywheel- includetheirownskewerto trainers will have to compare on trainers of the group and ensure a solid interface). The to my Wahoo. the only ones under the one tyre to roller drive is subject to Ialsoborrowedafriend’s thousand dollar mark. At the slippage and, for some trainers, Tacx Neo because it is unique oppositeendofthespectrum extreme tyre wear. Taking the amongst smart trainers in not lies the TechnoGym MyCycling. wheeloffmeansnoissueswith havingabelt–thebikechain Witharetailpricessetwell tyre slippage or wear, but then drives the actual resistance above$2000,thisisaserious youeitherrequireasecond mechanismdirectly(andthat investmentinyourindoor cassette installed on the belt makes noise on all the ridingfuture.Inbetweensit trainerortoswaptheoneoff other direct drive options). theEliteDireto,TacxFlux, your bike with each use. The Neo is able to function Jet Black Whisperdrive Smart, My personal baseline for as a motor for downhill and WahooKickrgen3and trainersarethetwoIhave. tailwind situations – virtual CycleOps Hammer. TheKurtRoadMachineisa reality seems awfully real fluidresistance'dumb'trainer when the rear wheel speeds up that sets the standard for me without rider input. CONNECTIVITY PROTOCOL forstabilityandeaseofusein LEFT:Warmupweapon ForthisarticleIgathered Garminisoneofthebignames the wheel-on trainer realm. of choice for Messrs Froome together a variety of smart in GPS, and therefore in GPS The Wahoo Kickr (gen 1) is et al. is the Wahoo Kickr. trainers across the price cycling computers. Garmin WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 69

WHAT IS ZWIFT? I remember being very sceptical when I heard about virtual cycling. If I am going to ride, I want to actually ride! And if I am going to train, then I want to use erg mode (see Box One). That was until I tried it. I found it to be terribly addictive! Similar to a computer game, Zwift presents a nicely detailed scene for you to ride around in (there are currently 3 locations: London 2012 Olympics’ course, Richmond 2015 UCI World’s course and Watopia – a volcanic island replete with underwater tunnels made of glass and roads through the centre of the volcano). The physics “engine” looks at the rider parameters (weight in particular, but it allows you to change equipment too) and based on your W/kg output, determines a velocity that you should be travelling at. At its most basic you can free ride around the environment using your smart phone and the accompanying app to wave hi to fellow riders, hook a U-turn or otherwise deviate from your pre- chosen course and even to select “power-ups” for short-lived higher performance. Zwift also offers a variety of programmed workouts, including multiple week prep programs aimed at specific events like the time trial. Or you can program your own. There are group rides, which like your local club ride can be as mellow or competitive as the riders choose to make it. Racing is also an option. Categories are based on W/kg levels to make it fair. I think there is a race starting about every 20 minutes, 24/7. You can draft other riders, you can hear the birds created the ANT+ standard and if you have a Tacx Neo you can even feel and (see thisisant.com) which links hear the texture of the road you are on (I love the power meters, computers, speed buzz of a wooden plank bridge as you ride over it and cadence senders and even because it so realistic). The realism level is high, and Shimano’s Di2 through a common it gets better with each update of the software. communication interface. With “...if you use an At any given time there are around 1500-5000 the introduction of the FEC environment like Zwift, people Zwifting. Hills have KOMs (and with loads of protocol (Fitness Equipment pros on Zwift at this time of the year you will have to Control) any ANT-FEC compliant be very good to snag even a daily KOM). I am amazed head unit can control any at just how much is going on in this virtual world. compliant smart trainer. The final cool feature I want to mention is visual The alternative protocol is customisation. Every kilometre ridden nets you Bluetooth (specifically Bluetooth 20 experience points. Every thousand experience Low Energy – BLE). An (imagine if your trainer points unlocks one piece of new equipment in your advantage of Bluetooth is that was 20% high compared to quiver. Some clubs (like mine!) have custom jerseys most phones and computers are in the environment – but even if yours doesn’t, there equipped with this out of the actual – you’d be worn out are many jerseys to choose from. So far I have box. A small disadvantage is that received deep carbon rims, shallow alloy rims, a it is a 1:1 pairing (which can be quickly just keeping up!). multi-colour sock pack and a second carbon bike a problem for more 'customised' to choose from. Facial and head hair, helmet use, installations and if you run sunglasses, gloves, sock height and frame colour Zwift via your Apple TV it has are just some of the options. a 3 device limit). 70 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

CLOCKWISEFROMTOP:Team Sky on the road to nowhere. Music or podcasts can help pass the time if you don't have access to online interactive apps.

“I was honestly surprised to discover that

they were all very similar in their virtual ride behaviour.”

Most of the smart trainers donebyaperson,butrowers arebothBLEandANT+ calltheirtrainers'ergs'and ready. The Bkool can only the terminology applies to USING ERG MODE useoneortheother,not instrumented indoor cycles Oneofmyfavourite,ifnotthefavourite,drillsIuseas both simultaneously. The too.Acontrollingdevice a coach is the Tabata Protocol. I won’t detail it here, TechnoGym and Kurt do (handlebar or wrist mounted butinshortitisanintervalwiththe“on”portiondone notuseANT+FECatall. cyclingcomputeroraphoneor at170%ofarider’sVO2MAX.Itisrelativelyeasyto The rest are able to connect personalcomputerviaanapp) determine what Wattage that should be, but it was viaANT+andBluetooth tells the trainer the resistance only with erg mode that I could be sure someone was simultaneously (for example, required in Watts and the achieving the target power. Using an ANT-FEC head via Bluetooth to an Apple TV trainerdoesitsbesttoprovide unit(suchasaGarmin520orWahooElemnt)theentire running Zwift and via ANT+ this resistance regardless of workout can be described in a few simple steps and toaGarmindevicerecording the cadence and gear chosen then ridden on a smart trainer. The trainer locks onto the theride–and,yes,Irealise by the rider. set power regardless of gear and cadence. It makes the Zwiftrecordstherideaswell MyKickrisparticularly protocol even harder but also more effective and more but sometimes you just want good at this so I was quite controlled.Iusuallyseebetterprogresswhenitisdone multiple connections). disappointedasIworked onasmarttrainerthanwhenitisn’t. throughthereviewunitsto TheotherwaytouseergmodewithanANT-FEC discover, one by one, that none head unit is to virtually ride a course. For example, ERG MODE of them had the same 'grip' on one could ride one lap of an upcoming race circuit or Basedonmydiscussionswith thepower.Thisismoreofa a particularly difficult hill that you want to get better at. smart trainer users, I am problemforapedanticcoach Now that the route information is in the head unit, that reallyshowingmycoaching (me) than it is for how the data can be used to control the trainer’s resistance; the slant and flying solo in caring workoutproceeds.Whichis steeper the hill, the higher the resistance. Then from abouttheergmode.Ergis tosaythateachtrainer home you could re-ride that course as many times as shortforergometer–literally providesaproperworkout necessary to master it. a device that measures work used this way. The smarter way to train

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LEFT: Front wheel riser blocks are designed to level your ride if using a 'wheel on roller' type trainer, or to simulate climbing or descending. BELOW LEFT: Arubbermat keeps things from slipping and also catches sweat.

VIRTUAL REALITY MODE trainerwas20%highcompared Anyonewhohasriddenon to actual – you’d be worn out theroadwithapowermeter quicklyjustkeepingup!). will know that the power is The wheel-on trainers seldom constant. It moves – complicate both precision always.Smallvariationsinthe andaccuracybythetyre/ road surface, the slope, the roller interface. The amount of windandtherider’seffortall pressure on the roller impacts on adduptopowerfiguresthat theamountofslipthatoccurs bounce around. Why should whichinturnaffectsthepower it be any different in the VR measurement. It is important world? When hooked to Zwift to calibrate a wheel-on trainer andriddenlikeabikerather each time you use the trainer. thanlikealabinstrumentthe Incontrast,someofthedirect pedallingeffortsfeltpretty drivetrainersdon’teven have a muchexactlyasexpected calibrate function. acrossallofthetrainers. The power accuracy of the smart trainers varies PROPRIETARY MODES “...Thebeautyof roughlyinlinewiththe Virtually all of the trainer price. Accuracy is important manufacturershaveanapp 11 speed is that fortworeasonsifyouare thatcanassistyoutogetfitter. goingtothetroubletobuya TheonesfromEliteandTacx smart unit. First, you want have history extending back everyinstanceofaspecific more than 10 years (when the powertobethesameasevery video was actual video and otherinstanceofthatpower the frame rate was changed (which is technically precision tomatchyourspeed).Allof (SRAM, Shimano rather than accuracy). And them offer some customised or Campagnolo)....” second, especially if you use training aspect that may, or an environment like Zwift, maynot,beincludedfreewith youwantyourpowertobethe thepurchaseofyourtrainer same as every other user you from that company. I didn’t are riding with (imagine if your explore any of these. I feel like POWER REVOLUTION

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Distributed by Cassons Pty Ltd - Australia P: +61(0)2 8882 1900 FULLSPEEDAHEAD.COM F: +61(0)2 8882 1999 E: [email protected] Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram W: www.cassons.com.au Cassons Australia Bicycle @cassonsaustraliabicycle 74 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

Ihavebarelyscratchedthe very quiet but they create a cassette regardless of trainer. surfaceofZwiftinthereview vibration in the floor that Except for the Tacx trainers period–itwouldtakemonths annoys downstairs neighbours using the Edco freehub body to work through all of the even in a concrete high-rise. (fitsSRAM/Shimanoand manufacturer-specific apps as Some of these smart trainers 4-spline Campagnolo cassettes) well.Ifyouaretryingtodecide areveryquiet,buthavean thestandardisforaSRAM/ betweentrainersforyourself, annoying (to me) whine. Shimano freehub. Many perhaps investigating their Others are loud but relatively trainers offer both Campagnolo apps will help you to decide. unobtrusive.Ifnoiseisyour andXD-driver(SRAMMTB) issue, then the Tacx Neo is your freehub options, so if that’s trainer–itissomuchquieter whatyouwantyou’llhaveto NOISE than anything else I’ve ever ensure it’s available and budget Idebatedprovidingasoundlevel tried there is no contest. The accordingly. ratingforeachtrainer.Noiseisa only noise I could hear was concern for many indoor cyclists. my worn chain and cassette THE PROOF IS IN Whetheritiswakingthechildren remonstratingmefornot duringalatenightsession replacing them yet. THE RIDING or annoying the downstairs Iwashonestlysurprisedto neighboursifyouliveinaunit, DRIVETRAIN discover that while these noiseisimportant.Ievengotmy trainers varied wildly in their decibel meter out and had a go at COMPATABILITY behaviourinergmode,they measuring the noise. Thedirectdrivetrainers wereallverysimilarintheir requireacassettetowork virtual ride behaviour. When with your bike. The Wahoo the terrain on your screen EXPERIENCE and the TechnoGym come points up a hill, or the speed Bothlongtermusingvarious with an 11-speed cassette increases, the load on the trainers in the past and over installedalready.Thebeauty pedals gets appropriately more the last month with these of 11 speed is that any cassette difficult. With sound and smarttrainers–suggests should work fine with any graphics–almostasmuchis that there is far more to drivetrain (SRAM, Shimano goingonasonarealride–itis the irritation factor than or Campagnolo). If you are not easy to overlook a trainer that is thedBratingofthetrainer. using11speed(likeme!)then a bit slower (or faster) than you For example, my rollers are you’ll have to supply your own expect to ramp up the load. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 75

FAR LEFT: Less technically involved, but just as effective, some trainers still use a simple thumb lever controller to vary resistance.

BRAND MODEL STYLE PRICE [1] ANT+FEC BLE MASS [2] CARRY [3] FOLD [4] EXTRAS [5] Bkool Go! Roller $699 +* + 9.1kg 1 2 riser Bkool Pro Roller $799 + + 14kg ∆ ∆ ∆ CycleOps Hammer Direct $1,649 + + 22.6kg 2 3 130/135/142mm, stabiliser CycleOps Magnus Roller $759 + + 9.4kg ∆ ∆ ∆ Elite Direto Direct $1,199 + + 15.4kg 2 2 130mm Elite Drivo Direct $1,799 + + 25.8kg ∆ ∆ ∆ Elite Rampa Roller $849 + + 16kg ∆ ∆ ∆ Jet Black Whisperdrive Smart Direct $1,099 + + 17.8kg 1 2 130/135/142mm, power-free Kurt Road Machine Smart Roller $949 - + 13.1kg 2 2 skewer Kurt Rock n Roll Smart Roller $1,349 - + 20.3kg ∆ ∆ ∆ Tacx Bushido Roller $849 + + 10.8kg ∆ ∆ ∆ Tacx Flux Direct $1,099 + + 21.4kg 1 130mm Tacx Neo Direct $1,899 + +21.5kg 1 2∆ TechnoGym MyCycling Direct $2,250 - + 17.8kg 2 3 130/135/142mm, cassette, case Wahoo Kickr Direct $1,599 + + 20.2kg[6] 2 3 130/135/142/148mm, cassette Wahoo Snap Roller $749 + + 17.2kg ∆ ∆ ∆

[1] Australian recommended retail price. [2] With cassette, without power supply. They are all heavy – only the Direto feels lighter than the others. [3] 1 = hard to carry; 3 = easy to carry . Δ not tested [4] 1 = doesn’t fold well; 3 = folds really well. + available [5] Iincluded dropout compatability; what else was in the box. - not available [6] This weight is for the Kickr 3, my Kickr 1 was slightly heavier. * despite numerous emails with the Bkool helpdesk, I couldn’t get this to work 76 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

BKOOL GO This is the least expensive trainer in BKOOL team I never successfully the test, and it shows. The support swapped the default BLE to ANT+. frame is adequate, but it lacks both Further complicating matters is the the solidity and stability of better fact that the BLE protocol BKOOL wheel-on trainers I have used. The uses is proprietary. I couldn’t use stability feet are quite clever – they the Go on Zwift because BKOOL pull out from the main base of the hasn’t shared their BLE information unit – but probably not quite far with the Zwift team and I couldn’t enough to make it rock solid for use the Go with my Garmin because sprint efforts. A really cool trait that uses ANT+. As a last resort I is that it automatically adjusts for signed up for the BKOOL virtual different wheel sizes; the hinge cycling portal (similar idea to between the base and the bike Zwift) and took a few rides in their support sides of the Go allow almost virtual space. It behaved exactly as any wheel size to rest directly on the expected with a realistic variation resistance roller. That also means in pedalling resistance to match the that one never needs to adjust terrain and speed. the pressure of the roller on the tyre – the rider’s weight does that. SPECIFICATIONS Unfortunately, with a rough sprinting MODEL: Bkool Go! style the tyre can slip on the roller. In theory the Go works over both WEIGHT: 9.2kg ANT+ and BLE communication MAXIMUM RATED POWER: channels, but only one at a time. 800w Despite extensive help from the RRP: $699

78 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

TACX FLUX The only direct drive trainer that does not fold up. While this is fine in use, it makes carting it through doors a little more difficult. Unfortunately the Tacx was supplied without the large bolts that hold the legs on so I was unable to actually test it. I did get to handle it and weigh it. The Flux looks like a quality unit that sends cadence through its ANT+ and BLE links. This was a frustrating favourite. Frustrating because it does not fold up or have a handle, making moving it really difficult. A favourite because it functions so well as a trainer. Removing the Flux from its box, assembly takes all of 30 seconds; insert the leg piece and install two bolts. The legs have a wide stance that makes it very stable in use (but being wider than the doorways in my house made carting it to the back deck for use hard – I had 10 trainers scattered around my living room during this review and I moved one each time to the deck to actually ride). This trainer is quiet. Almost as quiet as the Neo I tried and with noticeably less whine than my personal Kickr. Response time to power changes is quick and smooth. The Tacx wireless link provides power, speed and cadence so the rider knows exactly what they are up to at all times. Unfortunately, the Flux goes to sleep very quickly and I had real troubles waking it up – I had to unplug it briefly to get it to reconnect with my computer during Zwift sessions. Even running into the house to grab my forgotten towel was enough time for it to sleep. The Edco freehub body on the Flux is unique in that it will take all Shimano/SRAM cassettes as well as four-spline Campagnolo cassettes. Very handy if you happen to use Campagnolo gear. Just be careful when installing a Shimano/SRAM cassette as it is possible to install individual sprockets back-to-front when not paying attention (this is impossible on a regular freehub body). I liked the fact that the Flux uses a standard power cord to connect to mains power. All the other trainers have a transformer box – Tacx must have put the transformer inside the trainer. Three lights indicate power and ANT+ or BLE connections (or the lack thereof after a brief stoppage). Recommended only if you don’t have to move it (great for the permanent pain cave!).

SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: Tacx Flux WEIGHT: 21.4kg MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 1500w RRP: $1099 Fluent pedal stroke & full connectivity

The FLUX offers the truest simulation of your pedal stroke as it is equipped with the heaviest flywheel to date, a flywheel of 7kg. Compatible with Tacx and third party software like Zwift, TrainerRoad and Kinomap.

STOCKIST ENQUIRIES: 1300 883 305

TACX.COM 80 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

WAHOO KICKR – 3 Wahoo was the first to market with a carry position as well as riding position. current generation open-platform wireless It is very stable. I never felt like I was trainer such as these I am reviewing here going to upset the bike even deliberately (Tacx and Elite have been doing their bouncing around on a ride. The new Kickr own “responsive” trainers in a closed comes with the pieces required to suit the system for decades) and, now in its third greatest range of rear axle sizes of any generation, it shows. Improvements from trainer reviewed (see the table). This is my gen 1 Kickr to the review gen 3 Kickr the only trainer that is height adjustable, include a better carry handle, a lower meaning almost every bike will sit level profile shape to play nicely with disc with a simple change to the trainer. brakes, lights to show ANT+ and BLE There is a cadence sensor in the box connectivity, revised firmware controlling with the Kickr, meaning that it doesn’t different internal hardware and – the one measure or compute rider cadence I am still eager to try – compatibility with internally. This is fine for most situations the Kickr Climb unit that tilts a bike to (all current Wahoo gear works on ANT+ correspond with the slope being ridden in and BLE by the way) but it is one extra the virtual space (or responding to input BLE connection which is a problem for SPECIFICATIONS from the bar mounted controller when in connection-limited devices like the Apple erg mode). The new Kickr is also slightly TV. In erg mode the Kickr is still the best MODEL: Wahoo Kickr 3 quieter than my older one (which means it at locking onto set power and holding it WEIGHT: 20.2kg is about average in this group). stable. Recommended (and I purchased All Kickrs have two independent fold- the review model so I can have his and MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 2000w out legs with adjustable feet that lock in hers training going on this winter). RRP: $1599 "The best all-around trainer" DC RAINMAKER

_MAX SLOPE 24% _MAX SLOPE 14% _MAX SLOPE 10% _INTEGRATED OTS PLUS _INTEGRATED OTS _ELASTOGEL ROLLER REDUCES POWER METER +/ 1% ACCURACY POWER METER +/ 2.5% ACCURACY NOISE & TYRE WEAR _LIFETIME FREE REALSOFTWARE _12 MONTHS FREE _12 MONTHS FREE AND MY ETRAINING MOBILE MY ETRAINING MOBILE&DESKTOP MY ETRAINING MOBILE&DESKTOP

Distributed by Cassons Pty Ltd - Australia P: +61(0)2 8882 1900 F: +61(0)2 8882 1999 E: [email protected] Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram W: www.cassons.com.au Cassons Australia Bicycle @cassonsaustraliabicycle 82 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

ELITE DIRETO This is another very good trainer. It feels much lighter than all the other trainers on review even though it is not that much lighter than some. I attribute this to the great built-in handle and balanced weight distribution. It is quite light despite being much larger than the other trainers. That size is really only an issue for storage as there is little variation across the trainers once a bike is on top of them. There are three legs on the Direto. The central one is fixed in place while the outer two pivot 90 degrees between carry and ride modes. The legs lock into ride position but do not lock in carry position – and they do flop around a little bit, spoiling the carry-ability of the unit slightly. Once locked out they provide excellent stability. The legs are widely spaced and in the correct location to hold the bike up. The Direto has three lights on it indicating power, ANT+ and BLE connections. The response time of the Elite is swift. It uses a unique optical power meter (the design is shared with the more expensive Elite Drivo not reviewed here) with good accuracy that also provides the cadence, so no cadence meter is required. Typically a lot of the mass in a trainer is located in the flywheel. A heavier flywheel carries more momentum so that heavier often equates to better “road feel”. The Direto feels fine even with its light overall weight. This trainer is quieter than average and that noise was not a bad noise either. Recommended.

SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: Elite Direto WEIGHT: 15.4kg MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 1400w RRP: $1,199 smart trainer mycycling app training programs coach

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LEARN MORE AT TECHNOGYM.COM/MYCYCLING OR CALL TOLL FREE 1800 615 440 84 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

KINETIC ROAD MACHINE SMART Before I took the Kinetic out of the box for the first time, I knew what to expect as far as the trainer frame went as it is virtually identical to the Road Machine I have at home. Which is to say, really good! Solidly built, stable in use, easy to fold and not too bad to carry around (the resistance unit does flop a bit). The Kinetic trainers are the best wheel- on devices I have tried (and I have used more than a few). The review unit has soft-touch knobs which are an improvement over the hard plastic ones on my own trainer. The tyre runs on an oversized roller that makes slippage less likely and reduces tyre wear markedly. I can also vouch for the excellent manufacturer backing of this product. After six years of regular use one of the threaded parts that hold the bike in was worn. Only four days after contacting the US head office, I received a free replacement from the Aussie importer. Adding smarts to an already good trainer makes for a good smart trainer. The response to power changes was quick and accurate. I was disappointed with the lack of ANT+ connectivity, but the BLE side worked fine (I would have recommended this as a wheel-on option if not for the lack of ANT+). Direct drive machines have quite a lot of belt noise, the Kinetic has tyre-on-roller noise – meaning it has about the same level and type of noise as the other trainers. There is a power light, but no connection indicator (which would of course only be BLE).

SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: Kurt Kinetic Road Machine Smart WEIGHT: 13.1kg MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 1800w RRP: $949 Distributed by Cassons Pty Ltd - Australia P: +61(0)2 8882 1900 F: +61(0)2 8882 1999 E: [email protected] Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram W: www.cassons.com.au Cassons Australia Bicycle @cassonsaustraliabicycle 86 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

CYCLEOPS HAMMER Like most of the brands represented here, CycleOps has been in the trainer business for a long time. The Hammer is their first model in the smart trainer genre. They clearly did their homework as it was a favourite around my house during the review period. The housing feels as solid (and heavy) as a big hammer. The legs (which lock in both use and carry position – and hold the front wheel tray when closed) provide a very stable base from which to do intense training; it is never going to tip over in a sprint. The front wheel tray looks like the sort of tray used with a wheel-on trainer, only it is so thin its use is unnecessary – it does stabilise the front wheel though (and it carries a disc brake spacer which is handy for training without damaging the rear disc brake when the wheel is removed). The Hammer has one LED that indicates power and connection status by changing colour. It is on the quiet side and the noise is not objectionable. There is a large handle built into the case, which simplifies lugging the dead weight around. For whatever reason, the Hammer carries “heavy”. Like the Flux, the Hammer goes to sleep too quickly but I found it would reconnect to my computer once I started pedalling again (unlike the Flux). The Hammer does not measure cadence, necessitating an additional purchase to get these data. The example I reviewed had been well used before I got it – the case was marked all over and many of the stickers were damaged. It worked absolutely perfectly however. The Hammer really feels like it should last forever. Recommended.

SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: Cycleops Hammer WEIGHT: 22.6kg MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 2000w RRP: $1649

88 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

JETBLACK WHISPERDRIVE SMART I got a chance to speak on the phone with one of the JetBlack engineers who developed this trainer. He really wanted to ensure I used the newest firmware update for the trainer to get the best possible experience. That is really the story of smart trainers and the WhisperDrive in particular; the hardware is controlled by the firmware and it is the firmware that determines the experience. In this case JetBlack aren’t quite there. This is their first smart trainer and they are planning to make more. The WhisperDrive is really slow to respond to power changes – around 8 seconds by my clock – but I have no doubt that over the next while, the engineers will reduce that lag to a more reasonable level. The other quirk I found most (but not all) of the time was a power “rebound” after a large power change. For example, I tried doing intervals with 15 seconds at 800W and 4 minutes at 125W. After each drop from 800>125 the power jumped up again, briefly, such that I could barely turn the pedals. Minor (and I would call them minor) firmware glitches aside, the WhisperDrive is a good trainer. As the only unit I tested that does not require plugging into mains power, one could use the WhisperDrive to warm up for a race with full control of the power regardless of the location of said race. That feature alone is almost enough for me. The WhisperDrive is not quite “whisper” quiet, but it is no more than average level noisy and it didn’t whine. The legs fold easily, locking in the use position but not in the carry position. That coupled with the absence of a handle means carrying this little trainer (it is the smallest of the bunch) is a bit difficult. Not too bad, but the awkward shape with one heavy end means it is never going to be the most carry-friendly object (at least partially countering its utility as a portable warm-up machine). There is a red power light that comes on after just a couple of pedal strokes. It is worth mentioning that the trainer has an impressive reserve of power and remains connected for at least several minutes after pedalling ceases. It calculates cadence from the power spikes which means it works really well but can be fooled by high speed, low power situations where the spikes are not very clear. The JetBlack trainer feels well-made and once they sort out the firmware driving it I would definitely recommend it. SPECIFICATIONS MODEL: JetBlack WhisperDrive WEIGHT: 17.8kg MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 2500w RRP: $1099 BEST IN CLASS SCREEN & VISIBILITY THE MOST AERODYNAMIC DESIGN SIMPLY POWERFUL. Whether you’re into going farther or faster, you now have two ways to experience the game-changing power and simplicity of ELEMNT.

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DISTRIBUTED BY: FE Sports 1300 790 212 [email protected] fesports.com.au #inmyelemnt 90 Test Lab | Smart Trainers MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

TECHNOGYM MYCYCLING TechnoGym stands out in my mind for two traits: they produce pro gym equipment and they sponsored a top road cycling team some 20 years ago. One would hope that this means they understand the needs of the training cyclist, and so it seems to be after some time on the MyCycling. If I was going to select a trainer to put permanently in my living room, this one would be it. It is a thing of beauty. The design and the finish are a clear cut above anything else I tested, but so is the price. As lovely as MyCyling is to look at, it definitely has some idiosyncrasies that prevent it from being clearly the best trainer in the same way it is clearly the most expensive trainer. While they advertise it as ANT+ connected, it is not ANT-FEC ready and I was informed they have no intention of adding this feature. So no erg sessions from my Garmin were attempted. It is fully BLE compliant and can sync with both the MyCycling app on iOS (did not appear to be an Android option) and with Zwift (but to run Zwift accurately requires running the MyCycling app simultaneously; odd decision I think). Their app offers a whole suite of training, coaching and corrective services and advice, but I didn’t explore that option at all. I did enjoy my time on it in Zwift, but its slightly peculiar behaviour makes me think I didn’t link it to the app properly – it shouldn’t be that difficult. MyCycling has an optical eye on the centre foot to measure cadence – potentially more reliable than the other methods employed. The legs are geared to each other meaning they scissor in and out together and lock in place (mostly – on the trainer I reviewed the button releasing the legs occasionally failed to pop into place and I once found the legs had folded in mid-ride leaving me feeling really tippy). Carrying the trainer is quite easy thanks to its lighter (than most) weight and the centred handle on top. Unfortunately the handle can only be carried one way. For WHICH ONE? storage or transport MyCycling comes in an foam suitcase – while it roughly quadruples the volume HavingH once ruined three tyres in one of the trainer it also protects home and trainer particularly bad week of winter training from bumps and the handle on the case is quite I will begin by recommending anyone comfortable on the hand. whow wants to do a lot of virtual/indoor/ The noise the TechnoGym produces is erg-mode cycling get a direct-drive style particularly whiny and annoying to my ears unit. For casual use, the wheel-on units (without being overly loud). This trainer is so close are far more convenient and cheaper. to brilliance, but instead stands as a flawed thing While I particularly liked the Hammer, of beauty. Without wider compatibility I can’t thhe Kickr and the Direto; my frenzied recommend this one, especially given the price. monthm of Zwifting and erg-mode use innvolved swapping daily across the test units and I generally had to look to see SPECIFICATIONS whichw one I was on. You really can’t go tooo wrong. Each unit has its quirks and MODEL: TechnoGym MyCycling its specific power limitations (which are WEIGHT: 17.8kg mostlym high enough to never be an issue foor an average cyclist) – just make sure MAXIMUM RATED POWER: 2100w thhe quirks you buy will work for you.

RRP: $2250 There is no one best trainer.

Test Lab | Bossi Titanium MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 92 BY LUKE MEERS

Bossi Fabrica Ti

THERE'S NO DOUBTING T IS AN ODD SOCIAL There is nothing wrong with features of this unique material THE ALLURE OF SHINY phenomenon that although this, indeed these bikes are and leveraged them, aiming to I we hold a desire to be increasingly impressive but produce a lovely and lively ride. METAL OBJECTS, AND unique and express ourselves it does make the experience Many builders of titanium bikes, as individuals, we too often of riding a bike like the in aiming to create the strongest LUKE MEERS HAS BEEN are subconsciously drawn Bossi Fabrica Ti all the more and lightest frame possible, PLUMBING THE DEPTHS to the actions, beliefs, even special. Bossi make no claims use very high material grades appearance of those around of aerodynamics or super such as 6-4 Ti. Whilst this may OF HIS ATTRACTION us. We yearn to be different, lightweight features, but instead help achieve their aims, what is TO BOSSI'S LATEST to be ourselves but often our have focused on creating a bike often compromised, ironically, 'self expression' looks ironically that provides a unique and is the plush and comfortable TITANIUM FRAMED RIG, similar to that of our peers’. A most importantly, a fun ride. characteristics that make THE FABRICA TI. similar pattern can be observed To achieve this, the Fabrica Ti titanium frames unique. In in modern bike design. Each balances the old-school class contrast, James Bossi chose to season as the new designs and feel of a welded frame, with use a slightly lower grade (3/25) are released, the brands will modern design features and for the majority of the frame. proclaim their new model as manufacturing processes. This strategic choice adds a little “lighter, stronger, more aero, A titanium bike is always weight (frame is about 1.6kg) more comfortable”. This may going to provide a ride-style and but helps to deliver a sublime often be true, but a lot of comfort level that is markedly ride, with none of the harshness other brands have inevitably different from carbon frames. of carbon. The top tube and progressed their designs along In the design of the Fabrica down tube are shaped using similar evolutionary paths. And Ti, Australian designer (and hydroforming. This process uses so we find these new top tier founding director) James Bossi fluid under very high pressure bikes are remarkably similar. has embraced the inherent to shape the tube around a WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 1

1. SRAM's tall brake hoods offer aheightenedlevelofsecurity on rough or unknown roads. 2. Gleaming rotors,chain and dropouts add some boutique blingtoyourride. 3. Gear cables and brake hoses areallstowedawayentering theframe(andfork)through smoothly integrated ports. 2

SPECIFICATIONS

FRAME: 3AL-2.5V Ti, butted, hydroformed, oversized tubes FORK: Bossi T800 Monocoque flat-mount disc fork BOTTOM BRACKET: 6AL-4V 3D cast press-fit HANDLEBAR: Integrated carbon HEADSET: FSA Integrated 1 1/8th – 1 1/2” tapered headset CRANKSET: SRAM Force 22, 50-34T 3 FRONT DERAILLEUR: SRAM Force 22 REAR DERAILLEUR: SRAM Force 22 SHIFT LEVERS: SRAM Force 22 CASSETTE: SRAM 11-32T BRAKES: SRAM Force Hydraulic Disc WHEELS: DT Swiss PR1400 Disc TYRES: Pirelli P-Zero SADDLE: Fabric Scoop SEATPOST: BossiT800Carbon27.2mm, PRICE: $2,750 (frameset), about $5000 as built WEIGHT: 1.6kgframe,8kgasbuilt. CONTACT: www.bossibicycles.com 94 Test Lab | Bossi Titanium MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

specific mould. It allows for seatpost and bars. The bottom I reviewed the rim brake non-uniform tube profiles bracket is cast from the higher version of these wheels several (not seen until more recent grade 6/4 titanium. The headset issues back. And the disc brake times in titanium) such as the is tapered, in fitting with siblings are equally solid in tapered top tube and produce current best practice to improve their all-round performance. a very high quality product in strength and stability at the We can’t stop without terms of finish and uniformity. front end. There are mounting looking at the brakes (sorry). Braces across the chainstays points for racks/panniers to The Fabrica uses flat mount and seatstays help to ensure satisfy those wanting to cover disc brakes and the SRAM that the rear end is strong some serious distances. The hydraulic discs were pretty and firm. Indeed the whole frame is brush finished and much faultless.12mm thru- bike feels surprisingly lively. includes neat laser-etched axles are used to ensure the Other modern features of the graphics. The DT Swiss efficient handling of the ample Fabrica frame include internal PR1400 wheelset contributes to stopping power. The only minor cable routing and carbon forks, this relative 'zippyness'. issue was occasional squeal under partial braking loads. Attached to the DT Swiss rims were 25mm Pirelli P-Zero tyres 4 (the frame can fit up to 28mm tyres comfortably). The Pirellis enhanced that supple feel that the titanium provides. They really felt lovely, although I would be interested to see their durability tested over a longer period. My only flat came courtesy of a rough exit to a bridge, resulting in a pinch flat (in both tyres!). The soft and supple feel of these tyres must in part be thanks to a little less side wall material and inherently extends to feeling harsh bumps a little too well. In the Pirelli’s defence, this was the only flat I had during about 1200km of testing. A SRAM Force groupset was fitted to the test model. SRAM groupsets always feel very firm, almost difficult to shift, especially after using Shimano Di2. However, this firmness is actually quite nice, and coupled with quick and faultless changes helps to transmit a level of connectedness to the bike that you only really get when using a good mechanical shifting system. Don’t get me wrong, I won’t be trading in my electronic groupset anytime soon, but I did thoroughly enjoy riding the Force groupset. On the road, the Fabrica performed exactly the way one would hope, given the features described above. At 8kg as tested here, this isn’t WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 95

aclimbingweapon,butitfelt 4. The Fabrica Ti combines all the smooth and efficient going modern design aesthetics (flat overarangeofclimbs;the mount discs, integrated headset, 5 through axles, and internal cable compact chainset and generous and hose routing) into an attractive rear cassette certainly helped and high functioning package. during the steeper stuff. When pointed back down the hill, 5. Intentionally sizeable welds haven't stable handling combined with been totally smoothed over. grippy tyres and confidence- 6. DT Swiss' PR1400 wheelset and giving disc brakes make you Pirelli PZero tyres are a nice feel in control and able to lean performance step up. intocornerswithassurance. Oneofmyfavouritepartsof ridingthebikewasgivinglittle short efforts over short sharp risesorwhenmuckingaround inthebunch.Theextragive ofthetitaniumwasnoticeable yet didn’t feel inefficient. More 6 likeaspringgettingloadedup andreleased.Fun.Nowthis bike certainly isn’t for those lookingforapurebredrace machine,butitdoesn’tfeellike it slows you down too much either.Bossihavedevelopeda SUMMING UP greatdesignwhichdeliversa fun, fast and hugely enjoyable QUALITY ride.Idon’tliketosoundtoo A handmade, locally designed positive about bikes when (potentially customised) frame reviewing because it can come with lovely attention to detail. across as disingenuous, but The weld quality seems apartfromaseatpostclamp great and the componentry bolt that needed some Loctite, well selected. Itrulylovedthisbike. Acommondrawbackto Thecompletebikeasbuilt PERFORMANCE obtainingatitaniumbikeis andtestedherewasnota Arealpleasuretoride;thisbike thepricetag,anditispossible standard specification, but does all the things that a good topayaround$5,000fora rather indicative of what an titanium frame should. Smooth similar specced frame. This individual could order through as silk to ride yet still delivering figure is not unusual either. Bossi. This complete bike a sense of efficiency. Not a pure SothefactthattheFabricaTi wouldcostabout$5,000,but race machine, but neither is it (frameset)retailsatjustover Bossiofferstoworkwitheach trying to be. half that amount ($2,750) is customer to build the bike quiteremarkable.Theframeis with their desired level of designed in Australia, built in componentry. VALUE FOR MONEY China(mostare)butthething “Bossi have At the end of the day $2,750 for a quality Australian with titanium is that there is developed a great thereissomethinghugely designed Titanium frame, currently no getting around appealingaboutthesimplicity or $3,250 for a complete theneedforeachframetobe design ofatitaniumframe.Perhaps customised frame: enough said. essentially handmade. To add itistheclean,no-fussfinish, tothevaluestakes,Bossioffers theneatwelds,thesupple OVERALL complete custom builds for ride or the knowledge that Thisisabikethattrulykeeps about$500extra.Thisistruly inaworldwhereitseemswe riding in the realm of fun and remarkable. James Bossi, told are endlessly replacing and free. It is smartly designed me that basically nothing is upgrading our possessions, to leverage the best features out of the question regarding thatatitaniumframeisan ofTitaniumandisvery custom specifications either. assetwhichcanliterallylast competitively priced. The Essentially, the extra design a lifetime. Bossi has truly SRAM Force and DT Swiss work is absorbed into the cost embraced this ethos and has componentryfittedtothis andtheextrachargeistocover producedintheFabricaTi,a model was well matched to the the changes required to jigs bike that stands out as unique, frame and combined to form a and setup during fabrication. something enjoyably different bike that was a pleasure to ride Custom logos can even be fromthemyriadcarbon bikes in all conditions. etched as part of the process. in the bunch. Test Lab | Domane SL7 MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 96 BY NAT BROMHEAD

Trek Domane SL7 NAT BROMHEAD HAS BEEN RIDING THE NEW DOMANE SL7 FOR THIS REVIEW; 7.8 KILOS OF ENDURANCE ORIENTED CARBON FRAME, 35MM CARBON RIMS, AND ELECTRONIC GEARS...HERE'S WHAT HE FOUND.

IKES, IT COULD BE SAID, HAVE to use a 5.5 metre runabout of 20 or so metres it looked a lot 1. Bontrager Speed Stop some startling similarities as an example, it’s much the like any other bike. calipers perform their B to boats. The subtleties same for boats. They may This, I thought, is just like duties admirably. that separate the good from the look superficially similar, but boats. From the jetty, beach 2. There's a lot to take in bad, and occasionally even the subtle intricacies dictate the or another vessel, the intricate here: the rear IsoSpeed ugly, are attributes that make ride—some drier, quieter, more angles, quirks and mannerisms decoupler, Bonty's the absolute difference when comfortable, some go better with are difficult to pick. proprietary brakes, a out on the road, or the water. less power, some are absolute But get out on the water, give half length seat mast The intricate flare of a bow; fuel misers yet offer a drier, it some power and hit the wash and those Aeolus Pro 3 the angle of headtube. The safer ride. of a passing gin palace, and carbon rims. length of a chine; the wheelbase. Sitting on the front deck you’ll soon know if you're aboard 3: Though not fitted as The transom angle; the lean in of the Burrawang Cafe in the a silky-smooth ski boat … or a standard, the frame is a seatstay ... and on it goes. glorious Southern Highlands, submarine. ready for Trek’s DuoTrap Glance at a new model 55cm I sipped a skinny flat white while Finishing the coffee I walked digital speed and bike and, in most cases, it will looking over the Trek Domane to the Trek and spent more time cadence sensor. fundamentally look a lot like SL7 I’d been spending the looking closely over it before numerous others released over morning aboard. Admiring the clipping in and pedalling off the past decade or more. And, stealthy steed from a distance toward the next gentle climb. WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

1 2

SPECIFICATIONS

FRAME: 500 Series OCLV Carbon with Front & Rear IsoSpeed Decouplers FORK: Domane full carbon, E2 tapered steerer, direct mount brakes HEADSET: Integrated, sealed, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom RIMS/WHEELS: Bontrager Aeolus 35 Race. Tubeless Ready TYRES: Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite 700x28c CRANKSET: Shimano Ultegra CHAINRINGS: 50/34 BOTTOM BRACKET: BB90 SHIMANO: Ultegra, Di2 braze-on REAR DERAILLEUR: Shimano Ultegra Di2 3 CASSETTE: Shimano Ultegra, 11-32, 11 speedShifters Shimano Ultegra Di2, 11 speed HANDLEBARS: Bontrager Race Lite IsoZone, 31.8mm STEM: Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, 7 degree, w/computer & light mounts BRAKES: Bontrager Speed Stop, direct mount SADDLE: Bontrager Affinity Comp, chromoly rails SEATPOST: Bontrager Ride Tuned carbon seatmast cap, 20mm offset WEIGHT: 7.85kg SIZE: 56cm 98 Test Lab | Domane SL7 MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

“there’s no doubting the of this system.” 5

Running thumb and forefinger aroundthethinseatstays,froma the bottom and up along the gentlecurvetowardtheISOg rubberr buffer, it was obvious this bike was something special. “So completely integrated but so individuallyseparate,”Ithought asa I looked over the seat post couplerc while wondering how it wasw assembled in the factory. Offering significant compliance,c thanks to a surprisings amount of fore and aftera movement, from right downd the tube close to the bottomb bracket, the design screamss comfort. Then, following the top tube alonga toward the head tube, and anothera ISO Speed decoupler is seen. Again I wondered how itt was assembled, how it may beb removed, and what it looked like inside (for a schematic explanatione on this, front and rear,takealookattheTrekr website).w What I do know, did feel anda could certainly see, was the absorption and comfort fromf what’s effectively a frontf end vibration and shock dampenerd - there’s no doubting the efficiency and surprising dampeningd abilities of this system.s More importantly, the rearr ISO Speed decoupler - whichw effectively separates the seats tube from the frame of the bike - has no perceivable negativen effects on the overall stiffnesss of the frame. Follow the head tube down to the fork and you’ll see hints 4 ofo classical, almost old-school steels design elements. The WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 99

4. All day comfort in a refined package. 675. Bontrager's new carbon clinchers add great value and performance. 6. The SL7 runs Ultegra electronic gearing. 7. The front IsoSpeed decoupler...barely visible fatigue-fighting control.

fork’ssweptforward;another WHERE ARE THE pressure,andtherearofthepad SUMMING UP not so subtle indication that WEIGHT SAVINGS? fittingintoaslightindentation this bike is built for endurance mouldedintotheinnerfork,this - up hill and down dale, long Whilenotinapositiontoweigh isasclosetopeakrimbrakeas QUALITY kilometres and effortless thedecouplerdampingblocks, I’ve seen. At around 120 grams A cutting-edge bike - beautifully comfort. it’sfairtosaythey’dbeheavier they punch well above their balanced, well thought-out, Riding up the gradual climb than carbon fibre. Boldly weightand,inmatteblackwith superbly engineered and a beforethenextSouthern assuming Trek engineers looked aredBontragerB,theyalsolook credit to Trek. Fit, finish and Highland’s descent, again I elsewhere for weight savings pretty cool. component choice is spot on - a was surprised by the overall aftersettlinguponISOSpeed The other marginal weight very impressive offering. lightnessofthebuild.Asmidge technology, where did they saving is the partially integrated over7.8kgs,itfeltsignificantly skim the fat? seat post, the clamp being PERFORMANCE lighterthanitwas.The35mm Firstthewheels-the approximately half way between Endurance and efficiency factory Aeolous carbon wheels, factoryfittedAeolusPro3 thesaddleandtoptubefor have been built into this andfeathertouchShimano tubeless-ready carbon clinchers A:moreflexandB:lessgrams. frame. Extremely comfortable, Ultegra Di2 no doubt go a performed faultlessly. Although Negatives-Moreusedtothe ISO Speed has obviously long way in adding to that atotaldiscconvert,Iwas tight, compact position on another been intensively engineered, ethereal feel. surprisingly impressed with bike I’ve been spending too much extensively tested, and any rider ‘Cardiac’ is probably one of thebrakingsurfaceandbike’s time aboard, it did take some will feel the results. thebestnamedandmostfeared slowing and stopping abilities time to become accustomed to climbs around the Southern (more about brakes below). They thegeometryofthisbike.While VALUE FOR MONEY Highlands, it was there the feellightontheclimbs,and itwassuperblycomfortable-and Think about how long you might Domaneshoneitsbrightest-for at 35mm were not susceptible left me feeling surprisingly fresh abikebuiltforendurance,it to crosswinds while riding in afterabigclimbingday-tome own this bike, multiply your certainlyshowedabriskturn less than ideal conditions. The thebikehadaunique,almost annual kilometre count by that of speed when the going got wheelset weighed in at a smidge stretched feel about it. number and divide that by the vertical. under 1,500gms. AminornigglewasTrek’s purchase price - a bargain isn’t it! Unlikeaboat,whereweight choice of position for the white generally equals comfort and andgreyhighlightsontheframe OVERALL lightness equates to speed, the PEAK RIM BRAKE? -behindthefrontcallipersand TheSL7isasweetlooking Domane combines all-day, Gran Thebrakecallipers-lookclosely below the chain and cassette. package, reasonably light, and Fondo style ride qualities with attheimagesandyouseeTrek Onewayoflookingatthisisit featuring beneficial technology sprightlyclimbingabilities.Even have used their own in-house will make you clean your bike wherever you look...decouplers liftingitontotheroofofthecar Bontrager Speed Stop direct moreoften,butitdidseemodd foreandaft,full-carbonwheels, Icouldn'thelpbutfeelIwas mount brakes. With less than tousealight,whitefinishinthe Di2spec,andaslickcarbon road testing a pure lightweight 30mmbetweenmountandpad, two areas most prone to grease, frame. She's very yar. climbing bike. no visible flex when simulating grime and marks. Test Lab | Giant Propel MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 100 BY GARY HUNT

Propel Advanced Pro Disc BOASTING AN ARRAY OF DESIRABLE GO-FAST FEATURES THE PROPEL IS AN INTRIGUING, FAST-LOOKING MACHINE. GARY HUNT HAS BEEN RIDING THE ADVANCED PRO DISC FOR REVIEW.

TANDING BACK TO INSPECT THE its oversized headset bearings, have an option to get you sorted. 1. An old school cutaway Propel after building I and it's modular rubber rings The bars have been beefed up seat tube to enhance S think to myself, "Blimey, and spring loaded flaps hide and while they feel rock solid the aero rating. this thing looks fast". Angular those first few loops of brake when reefing on them in a 2. Lean and mean; the and menacing, from any hoses and gears cables most sprint, they also offer their very Propel’s tube set perspective its aggressive stance internally cabled bikes leave comfortable flat tops, great for makes no bones about and aero tube profiles exude a exposed. Even the Di2 junction those (probably rare) times when its intentions. potent sense of speed bordering box is gone (at last!) from you are just cruising. 3. That stem cowling on arrogance. beneath the stem. There's a rear wheel cutaway hides brake hoses and The mere presence of the The charging cable port has seat tube for more wind Di2 cables. mismatched rims infers a level been relocated to the end of cheating, above a massive, of advanced knowledge and the handlebar in the right boxy bottom bracket junction high performance experience, hand drop. that promises efficiency while the stem and its The Contact SLR aero and stiffness. aerodynamic cowling looks handlebar is designed to cut It's clear this bike is all like some kind of weapon. weight and increase speed but it about speed. The cowling conceals Giant's makes mounting a speedo more First rides on the Propel OverDrive2 technology with difficult...though Giant does invoke curious questions, WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

1

SPECIFICATIONS

SIZES: XS,S,M,M/L,L,XL COLORS: Carbon Smoke/Green/White FRAME: Advanced-grade composite FORK: Advanced-grade composite, Full-composite OverDrive 2 steerer HANDLEBAR: Giant Contact SLR Aero, composite, 31.8mm STEM: Giant Contact SL Aero, alloy SEATPOST: Giant Vector composite SADDLE: Giant Contact SL Forward SHIFTERS: Shimano Ultegra Di2 Hydraulic 2 FRONT DERAILLEUR: Shimano Ultegra Di2 REAR DERAILLEUR: Shimano Ultegra Di2 BRAKES: Shimano Ultegra Di2, hydraulic disc, 140mm 3 BRAKE LEVERS: Shimano Ultegra Di2, hydraulic disc CASSETTE: Shimano Ultegra 11x28, 11-Speed CHAIN: KMC X11EL-1 CRANKSET: Shimano Ultegra, 36/52 BOTTOM BRACKET: Shimano, Press Fit RIMS: GiantSLR1,[F]42mm,[R]65mmdeep, 23mmwide,Tubeless,Fullcomposite TYRES: GiantGaviaRace1Tubeless,700x25, Folding EXTRAS: Ride Sense ANT+/Bluetooth 102 Test Lab | Giant Propel MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM

4. Looks fast just standing still. 5. Much of the frame's stiffness comes from the oversized 5 down tube and that massive BB junction. 6. The Propel’s fork legs may look slender, but are nonetheless very rigid. 7. A very fast looking seat post and its neat clamp cover.

envvious glances and the usual 'tough job' comments 4 fromm the bunch. ThePropelofcourseise more a sprinter, time trialler or rouuleur oriented machine than a feathery climber. Despite its muscularu frame there's no substaantial baggage to slow you down. This M/L bike weighs just 8kg so isn't overly compromised on cliimbs...the wheel choice is poossibly more of an impedimentp in this regard. It has been designed for converting watts into speed anda this I found makes it great fun to ride. With a short 165mm headtube (M/L) it'll coax you into a more aero riding position which in itself will add a couple of kph to youry average speed. And itt's this sensation of speed is so satisfying, almost addictive, and increasingly I found myself looking forward to moreo time on the road. On one ride I found myself riding directly towards a massive storm front, the clouds of which seem about to engulf my turnaround point. I powered onwarrd hoping to make the turn beforee being drenched. Again... even intoi a growing headwind WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 103

67

SUMMING UP this sensation of speed is Thebrakingisworthsome inspiring me, motivating me to more discussion. Ten years QUALITY pushharder.Imadetheturn “Angular and agoIoptedfora200mmfront Ontopofawell-finished, beforetherain,thenputupthe rotoronmymountainbikeafter pleasingly stiff and aerodynamic spinnaker and run for home, menacing, from some high speed descending frame Giant has developed a nowwithadecenttailwindand resultedinhairraisingbrake any perspective suite of credible components a definite feeling of elation. fade (and resulting reduced from saddle to stem and not It'sinsituationslikethis braking capacity) with the least high performing wheels. wheretheSLRaerowheelset stock180mmrotors.Ithas comes to the fore. The 42mm been quite amazing to witness front, 65mm rear will help you exude the development of road disc PERFORMANCE attainagoodpersonaltopspeed brake equipment over the ThePropelisafastmachine through a mix of aerodynamic apotentsenseof last few years and ride the idealforthepowerfulrideror efficiencyandflywheeleffect, speed bordering on latest Shimano 140mm rotors. rouleur looking to convert every thelatterfactorhowever,also Despite longer, faster descents wattandgivenoneawayto meaning they're not the most arrogance.” thanmyscaryMTBride,they thewind.Notoutdoneinthe snappy off the line. However continuedtohaulmetoastop, cornering stakes either. compared to a set of 55mm silently, with just a single finger wheels (front and rear) that and impressive modulation, VALUE FOR MONEY Ihavealsobeenriding,they despite their minimalist Bykeepingmuchofthedesign aredefinitelylessaffectedby proportions. and build of this bike in-house... crosswinds...the lower profile TheteamatGiantshould whichistosayallofitbarthe front rim offering less surface bewellpleasedwiththe groupset, and employing years area to buffeting gusts makes Propel.Incorporatingastiff of experience in the the design foramorestablesteering Gaviatyresistheyaresticky aerodynamic frame, electronic andproductionofthoseparts, experience. and provide good grip while gearing, flat mount hydraulic inthePropel,Giantoffersavery GianthasfitteditsGaviaRace cornering and braking. Leaning disc brakes, their Ridesense strong value proposition. 1tubelesstyrestothePropel. thePropelintocornersinmy speed and cadence sensor, Theyareagoodmatchsizewise local test descent was something fullyhiddencablesandhoses, for the SLR 1 wheelset, though ofarevelation.Iattributedthis through-axles, and a raft of OVERALL perhapsnotthetoughestrubber. increased level of confidence aerodynamic features including Iamveryimpressedwiththis While it was an (admittedly and speed to the combination in-house designed tubeless bikeandIenjoyedmytimewith confidence-inspiring) tight fit, I ofsublimebraking,andthe wheels and tyres, the Propel it immensely. It performs so well managed to remove and reinstall Propel's exceptionally stiff is an exceptional machine. It's on flat and rolling terrain, climbs thereartyrewithatubewithout cohortofframe,fork,barsand anexcitingfunbiketoride without complaint and descends levers when a small gash failed wheels, along with the sticky that raises the bar for speed, exceptionally well. to seal. The upside of the soft Gavia tyres. performance and value. BunchofFives MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 104 WORDS: PETER MANIATY

NAME: Eamon Fitzpatrick NAME: Matthew Miller BIKE: Trek Madone 5.2 BIKE: Giant TCR LIVES: Geelong NAME: Luke Farrugia LIVES: Wyndham Vale OCCUPATION: Carpenter BIKE: Giant TCR SL1 OCCUPATION: Education Professional LIVES: Ardeer OCCUPATION: Musician IMAGES @ EAMON FITZPATRICK WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 105

Abunchof NAME: Luis Lopez BIKE: GT Carbon (2012) NAME: Pat Mercieca LIVES: Werribee BIKE: Canyon Ultimate CF SLX OCCUPATION: Office Administration LIVES: Hoppers Crossing OCCUPATION: Panel Beater

5FIVE RIDERS.s FIVE QUESTIONS. ONE BUNCH.

WHO? J.A.M.B.O.C. WHERE? WERRIBEE TO BARWON HEADS RETURN: 150KM WHEN? AS OFTEN AS POSSIBLE

KAY, OKAY. THESE GUYS AREN’T a bunch of fives in the Ostrictest sense. For one thing, they didn’t even have a name when we caught up with them. It necessitated some rather rapid improvising that landed on the acronym, JAMBOC (Just Another Mad Bunch Of Cyclists). Beyond the lack of name they also only numbered four riders, hence the guest appearance by none other than regular Bicycling Australia contributor, Eamon Fitzpatrick – on the other side of the lens for a change. While JAMBOC may not be a bunch of five, they most certainly are a bunch of mates – and darn fine cyclists to boot. Based in the western suburbs of Melbourne they venture out on regular rides in and around Werribee, however 2&3 June 2018

Australia’s Richest Handicap Cycle Race Stage 1: 132km Kalgoorlie-Boulder to Menzies - 90th Menzies Classic Stage 2: 105km Menzies to Leonora - Leonora Golden Wheels

For more information and to register, visit: www.cyclassic.com.au #GFCyclassic WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 Bunch of Fives 107

RIGHT: Great mates. Great stories. Pat Mercieca and Luke Farrugia share a post-ride chinwag. BELOW: Matthew Miller.

on this particular day they’re I’mapersonofblackandwhite, night, dealing with all manner mid-waythroughajuicy150km “A triple ironman soI’dliketoseerulesenforced of fatigue. I was the first person roundtriptoBarwonHeadsand triathlon in France with no discretion. from the southern hemisphere back,completewithastopfor to finish. coffee and soft serve ice creams! including a 540km WHAT ARE YOU GOALS FOR 2018? cycle leg... Iwanttoengagemorewith THERAPEUTIC MEDS IN PRO the cycling community. CYCLING? LUKE FARRUGIA Joining new groups and rides, I avoid taking most medications, WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION meeting new people, learning though from a pro-team OF CYCLING? newthings–notjustabout perspective I expect them to – The freedom. It’s my way of cycling but life in general. Bike it’s part of searching for all the meditatingandfocusingonme. packing and international trips ways to improve, better training, No-one to blame when things go areontheagenda. diet, bike equipment, recovery. It wrong but myself, and the elation should be left to WADA to work of being responsible for achieving IF YOU HAD $500 TO SPEND IN out the implications. goals and breaking limits. A BIKE SHOP, HOW WOULD YOU SPEND IT? GOALS FOR 2018? WHAT’STHEMOSTCHALLENGING It’safinelinebetweena I’m intending to finish my 30th RIDE YOU’VE DONE? proper bike fit or a power year at Ironman Australia in A250kmtriptothewestof meter. Ultimately the bike PortMacquarieand(ifIdo)be Melbourneatthepeakof fit. I’ve recently realised how presentedwiththeImmortal summer. I’d only intended to loop muchdifferencejustafew trophy.Onlytwoothers have out to Geelong and back, a lazy millimetres can change my ride ever done that. 135km,butIfeltgoodsohalfway comfortsoitwouldbevery I decided Ballarat was doable. interesting to experience. $500TOSPENDINABIKESHOP? ThatwasthelasttimeIfelt AnewTTframewithdiscbrakes good.Therewerealotofstops or perhaps a disc wheel or TT suit. in shade, lots of soul searching, LUIS LOPEZ and many kilometres zoned out WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION andfocusingonjustcranking out OF CYCLING? MATTHEW MILLER another pedal stroke. Fitnessandthepureenjoyment WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION of being outside in the elements. OF CYCLING? WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT I’ve been riding all my life, it’s a After a double hip replacement THERAPEUTIC MEDICATIONS IN love, it’s about working hard and at 47 I changed my lifestyle THE PRO PELOTON? ARE TEAMS pushing myself. completely. I began riding more GOING TOO FAR? regularly about three years Teams and individuals within MOST CHALLENGING RIDE? ago,nowiftherearetwodays everysportwillpushthelimits. A triple ironman triathlon in inarowoffthebikethere’s Be it physical, financial or other, France including a 540km cycle somethingwrong!It’sabout sports teams will find ways to leg. There were eight laps with health, bettering myself and the bend rules or get around them. climbs and descending, day and comradeship of fellow riders. % 50 OFF WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 Bunch of Fives 109

RIGHT: Luis Lopez showing off his form near Barwon Heads. BELOW:Whyonlyhavecoffeewhen there's mid-ride ice cream on offer.

YOUR MOST CHALLENGING RIDE? I recently decided to go down BeachRoad.Itstartedoffwell, butonthewaybackthenortherly wind sprung up, the heat came in,Iranoutofwaterandmajor cramps hit! I had to stop every 3-4km.Withliterally200mtogo Ihadtogetoffthebike.Icouldn’t standandhadtositforfive minutes, then limped into work. “I’d only intended to PAT MERCIECA EAMON FITZPATRICK THERAPEUTIC MEDICATIONS WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION WHAT’S THE ATTRACTION IN PRO CYCLING? loop out to Geelong OF CYCLING? OF CYCLING? Asanursefriendoncetoldme andback,alazy Fitness and challenging myself. General fitness, the adventure she’s never heard a bunch of Ireallyenjoywhentheweather ofridingtonewplaces and guysstandaroundlikecyclists 135km, but I felt is against you as it sure gets the also friendships. discussing their heart rates! best out of you. If we do it at the casual level, good,sohalfway MOST CHALLENGING RIDE? whataretheydoingat the MOST CHALLENGING RIDE? FromtheGoldCoastto professional level? Our group ride to Queenscliff Melbourneover14days.Itwasa whereweencountered solo and unsupported ride with GOALS FOR 2018? 100kph winds. At one point punctures, extreme heat, flash I’mintheprocessofbuildingup it was that strong it blew me flooding,acrashwhichresulted anewGiantPropelandamreally off my bike! indislocatingmyshoulderand looking forward to learning how plenty of fatigue through the to tackle hills better. Some longer THERAPEUTIC MEDICATIONS Australian high country. bunchridestoo.I’dreallyliketo IN PRO CYCLING? do a Melbourne-Warrnambool ride Throughout history there THERAPEUTIC MEDICATIONS with an overnight at the other end. have always been teams IN PRO CYCLING? willing to ‘push the envelope’ Professional sporting teams $500TOSPENDINABIKESHOP? to succeed. However, history will always be pushing the Easy! Disc brakes and wheels to alsoshowscheatsusuallyend boundaries for the smallest take them. up getting caught. In regards of advantages. The governing todrugssuchasVentolin,as bodies need to be flexible, the an asthmatic myself, I need rules and regulations need to be inhalers to be able to ride. constantly reviewed to keep as However such medications level a playing field as possible. should only be used in the right therapeutic dosage, by GOALS FOR 2018? those who actually need it. TheClassicsandtheTour.The classicsaresuchgreathard- GOALS FOR 2018? fought races where anything can I’mlookingforwardtothe happen. The real hard men of CadelPeople’sRidewithafew thesportcomeoutatthattimeof ofmymates.I'malsokeento year.TheTouris,well,theTour. do more criterium racing. But, plainandsimple,moreriding. $500TOSPENDINABIKESHOP? Thatwouldn’tcoverwhatIwant $500TOSPENDINABIKESHOP? everytimeIwalkintoabike Newcyclingkittoaddmore shop (a new bike!), so new kit. colour to our roads! You can never have enough. Spin Cycle MARCH / APRIL 2018 WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM 110 BY ANTHONY TAN

BMC - Better Make Changes... WHOBECOMESTHEAUSTRALIANMEN’SROADCHAMPIONHASALWAYSBEENABITOFALOTTERYBUT THIS YEAR BMC RACING THREW AWAY TWO POTENTIAL WINNING TICKETS, WRITES ANTHONY TAN.

LEFT: Previous winners, Scotson and Gerrans breaking the wind for Richie Porte. OPPOSITE PAGE: Rohan Dennis was more focussed on the time trial. IMAGES © EAMON FITZPATRICK

THINKWEHAVEATEAMTO playthewrongcardsatthe Clarke of EF Education First- usethetwoguyswhohad keepalotofthebases wrong time? Drapac p/b Cannondale were actuallywononthiscourse “Icovered for the road race. That Mitchelton-Scott had a caught on the Mount Buninyong before,GerransandScotson, I'dliketothinkthatbetween riderintheearlybreak,highly climb, three laps from the finish. as domestiques. Rohan, Richie, Miles and unlikely to succeed, was reason Aswe'veseeninyearspaston myself,wehaveridersforall enough for them to sit back this unforgiving parcours, if a scenarios come Sunday," Simon and let others do the chasing. groupgetsadecent-sizedleadit WHYOHWHY? Gerrans, a two-time winner and Robert Power may be destined canbetoughtobringback,so WeknowGerransis(orwas, new BMC Racing recruit, said forgreatnessbutlet'sbeclear someone had to do the chasing. dependingonwhoyouask)one theweektheAustralianroad here:he'sasecond-yearprowho Ijustfeltitwasn'ttheexclusive ofthebestonedayridersinthe race titles were contested. hasn'tyetwonarace,andnever onus of BMC Racing. "It's hard world—equal parts brain and Theymayhavehadthe finished the elite men's event at forpeopletosaythatwehaveto brawn, especially on tough, hilly ridersbuttheydidn'thavethe Buninyong. And still hasn't. do all of the work when we have courses, whose pedigree in such strategy,oratleastthecorrect Yetitappearedagood halftheridersofotherteams," events is greater than the sum one. Having won last year with enough excuse for the rest of Rohan Dennis, in the days of his other Aussie team-mates Miles Scotson, the best they the Mitchelton-Scott coterie to before the race, said. combined.Youdon'twintwo coulddowas16thplaceinthe sitbackandactasinterested Outofthefourtidersfrom national road titles—Milan-San elite men's road race. Am I observers till Power and his BMC, Belgian sports director Remo and Liège-Bastogne-Liège missing something or did BMC breakaway companion William Klaas Lodewyck decided to by fluke. Not only that, the WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 111

37-year-old appeared to be in and Clarke, I reckon he could excellent shape. Good enough have easily gone the distance. to win a third green and gold- With a palmarès like his, he was striped jersey perhaps - only for worth a punt. that opportunity to be relegated I can't say I saw much in favour of domestique duties from Dennis. Which wasn't on a course that suits his unsurprising because initially he abilities to a T. wasn't planning on doing both And surely Scotson, as the time trial and road race. defending champion, should Which left leadership at BMC have been allowed the Racing solely in the hands, or chance to properly defend his rather legs, of Richie Porte. title. The sole BMC Racing A brilliant climber, an excellent representative at last year's stage racer, we all know that, but road nats, his audacious move in eight years as a professional outfoxed and outclassed a far he has never won a one-day race. more credentialed field. Okay, Never. What's more, he was he would have been far more coming off a six-month racing While there have been solo of a marked man this time hiatus (albeit with a small cameo “Unless a cap winners - think Jack Bobridge, 'round, yet, like Gerrans, was at the Japan Cup last October) is placed on the Luke Durbridge - the probability never afforded the slightest after a horrific crash at last year's of a reduced sprint is more likely opportunity. Tour de France. number of riders than not. It would therefore It was later revealed an What made Lodewyck think have made more sense to grant eleventh-hour illness befell Sunday, January 7 was going to from any one team, leadership roles to Gerrans, who the man from Mansfield, be the day that would change? has the ability to outsprint the precipitating a change of If that statistic is going to likes of André Greipel at the end strategy. “I had a little hiccup change, it ain't gonna be in of a tough race, and Scotson, with the final part of my Buninyong. The only scenario I whose track pedigree bestows preparation and I wasn’t really could see Porte winning on that him the leg speed to do what he confident I was going to be able course is if he went solo on the will continue to hold did the year previous. to go the distance in the race,” climb and held his advantage Unless a cap is placed on the Gerrans told journalist Reece all the way to the finish. There the numbers at the number of riders from any one Homfray on the eve of the are two problems with that: the nationals... ” team, Mitchelton-Scott and Santos Tour Down Under. “So I Buninyong climb is not steep Bennelong SwissWellness will did a role change and supported enough for him to get away on continue to hold the numbers Richie and Rohan in the latter his own; and second, his form at the nationals. BMC Racing's stages of the race.” at that time of year is obviously tactics just made it easier for Judging from how he rode, not what it is in July, meaning them to win. almost singlehandedly bringing that he if did get away, he likely back the break containing Power wouldn't stay away. Twitter: @anthony_tan

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Welsford on the Wheel

2016 Olympics, Welsford admits that reform was necessary. “Alotofthingsdidneedto change,” he explains, holding courtintheplushlobbyofan Adelaide hotel. “The direction with equipment was something we needed to work on – we were behind the game compared with some other major countries at theOlympics.”Welsfordalso suggests that a tweak in focus and timing might help. “We have been one of the best teams indifferentdisciplinesatWorlds for some time now, but we needtolearntobangoutthose performances at the Olympics. Itisgoingtobeadifferent processmovingforward,andI thinkthatisforthebetter.” Welsford’s reflections originatefromaninteresting position. On one hand, he waspartofAustralia’sbest performingtrackunitinRio 2016,amemberofthepursuit squadthatbeattheexisting worldrecordduringthefinal onlyforGreatBritaintoride even faster. Welsford and co were the lone bright spot in an otherwise dispiriting campaign that saw the wider squadreturnwithoutasingle BARELY 22, SAM N A SPORTING WORLD 22 in January, Welsford has gold medal (they were predicted WELSFORD IS ALREADY increasingly populated alreadywontwojuniortrack towinthree).Butsilverwas I by media-trained athletes world titles, two senior track hardly Welsford’s target, and ATWO-TIMETRACK who speak in bland platitudes world titles and an Olympic he flew home to Australia as and avoid anything with the silver medal. He showed his disappointed as his medal-less WORLD CHAMPION, slightesthintofcontroversy, road racing potential during his colleagues. AN OLYMPIC SILVER SamWelsfordisarefreshing first-everWorldTourevent,the “Itwasahardfeeling,”he interviewee. The 22-year- recentTourDownUnder,and explains.“Formetogetamedal MEDALLIST AND A old does not suffer foolish haspreviouslyfinishedsecond atmyfirstOlympicsagedjust RISING STAR ON THE questions–hisanswersare atthegruellingMelbourneto 20 made me really happy, but bluntly honest and seemingly Warrnambool Classic. Welsford Iwasdisappointedbecausewe ROAD. KIERAN PENDER withoutregardfortheniceties isastarontherise.Whenyou were so close. We might have SPOKEWITHWELSFORD by which many of his colleagues arethisgood,peopledon’ttend been capable of a bit more, but skirt delicate issues. If Welsford totellyouwhatyoucanor during the final it did not quite DURING THE TOUR istobecomeafuturefaceof cannot say. cometogether.Iwasawreck DOWN UNDER TO FIND Australian cycling, fans and the Take Australia’s track for several days afterwards.” mediaalikeareinforatreat– program, based at the Cycling Withthebenefitofhindsight, OUTMOREABOUTHIS this is a rider happy to speak AustraliaHighPerformance Welsford admits there might CLIMBTOTHETOP,AND his mind. Unit in an outer Adelaide beasilverlining.“Iwanted Such candour might be suburb. Currently undergoing a that gold so much, but silver PLANS TO STAY THERE. encouraged by his incredible period of upheaval following the mighthavebeenablessingin ability. Despite only turning disappointing medal haul at the disguise,” he muses. “I want to WWW.BICYCLINGAUSTRALIA.COM MARCH / APRIL 2018 113

come back – I have fire in my belly to get Olympic gold.” Welsford, born in Subiaco, Perth, began cycling at age eight. The potential for his stocky build to translate on the track soon became apparent. By 2013 he was sweeping the junior national championships, collecting titles in the points and scratch races and strong results in a range of other disciplines. This earned him a place at the

junior world championships IMAGES: © CON CHRONIS in Glasgow, where his team pursuit squad finished first. He continued to excel in “It is hard with the international competition in the Commonwealth Games and following year, achieving results It is our KPI Worlds so close together,” he in Mexico, New Zealand and says. “One major factor is that defending the junior world title event, what the government tells Cycling the Worlds are in Holland – very in Korea. far away and barely a month Elevated to senior ranks, Australia to focus on, so this coming before the Commonwealth Welsford was part of the down from the top.” Games...that's the main focus for rainbow-jersey winning team the year. It is our KPI event, what at the 2016 Track World the government tells Cycling Championships in London. gelled together we should put Australia to focus on, so this is Then the replenished team in an even better time at the coming down from the top.” pursuit squad defended their Commonwealth Games.” At the Anna Meares world title in 2017. “Winning The Games – to be held on Velodrome near the Gold Coast, at Hong Kong Worlds was theGoldCoastinearlyApril– Welsford and his team-mates awesome,” Welsford smiles. “A loom large. Cycling Australia will face a daunting task: new team, new guys, a whole drew criticism recently for its beating the Olympic champions different experience with a plan to send just four athletes Great Britain. The two team different culture within the to the 2018 Track World pursuit lineups have been team. We were two tenths of Championships, but Welsford ABOVE: Welsford has his sights neck-and-neck in recent years, a second off the world record admits the hectic early year on Olympic track success, and and – presuming no upsets in in qualifying with a new schedule has made defending then plans a tilt at the road—as qualifying – the final between squad, so once we have really hisstripesabridgetoofar. a sprinter and one day racer. them should be electric.

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LEFT: The 22 year old has earned his stripes on the track, but no doubt has much more to accomplish.

focus on team-bonding. Age differences caused an unusual dynamic in the 2016 Olympic team pursuit squad – from Jack Bobridge (now 28) and Michael Hepburn (26) to Alex Edmondson (24), Welsford (22) and Callum Scotson (21). The latest squad is much younger, and a healthy team atmosphere is developing. “The bond between the team is essential,” says Welsford. “We all get on so well, we are a tight- knit team. It is a completely

IMAGES: © CON CHRONIS different environment to where it was before Rio, and the results “It will be a tight battle, but exclusive track program for will reflect that. with the home crowd and home 2020. Then, Welsford suggests, Despite being surrounded track I think we are going to his career on the boards might by older and more experienced do something really special,” be over. members of the Australian Welsford predicts. “We are going “I think my time on the representative squad, UniSA, at to see some world class times. track will be done after 2020,” the recent Tour Down Under, We want to move on from silver he says. “To do two Olympics Welsford hardly looks out of in Rio and start preparing to go cycles will be really cool, if I get place. Mingling with experienced one better with gold in Tokyo.” selected, and then I want to give European-based professionals – As Welsford acknowledges, I think I can give the road a go. Growing up I have Zak Dempster, Steele Von Hoff, success at the Commonwealth done the majority of my career Nathan Earle – Welsford is at Games is but one step towards sprint stages and on the track, and I think I can ease. “I never thought much revenge at the next Olympics Classics-style give sprint stages and Classics- about my age and achievements,” in Japan. Post-Gold Coast, the style riding a shot. Hopefully Welsford concludes. “Always rider will spend time on the riding a shot...” after Tokyo I will be able to shed having a next step makes you road with new team Australian some kilos of track weight and forget what you have done. Cycling Academy, then balance focus on the road.” Olympic gold is my main track and road commitments Another commitment keeping goal now. I have done a lot, but in 2019 and then return to an Welsford busy is a renewed I want to do a lot more.”

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