GREASE MONKEY WIPES

New Blog

2011-09-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

Please follow us to our new blog located here.

http://www.greasemonkeywipes.com/blog.asp

HOT SUMMER WEEKEND SALE

2011-07-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

The temperatures in Texas keep climbing but our prices are dropping. To help you beat the summer heat we are having a weekend sale. Use code "HOT SUMMER" to save 35% off all items in our store this weekend. But hurry when the clock strikes midnight Sunday 7/31 just like the temps are prices will return to normal. Happy shopping.

Kart Madness

2011-07-12T22:23:00.000-07:00

Our friend Chris Koster ripping it up in his Grease Monkey Wipes Go Kart

TOP 10 REASONS TO STOP AT A STOP SIGN

2011-06-25T09:20:00.001-07:00

The Austin Cycling Association's recent newsletter provided some reminders about why all cyclists should stop at stop signs. Here are their Top 10 Reasons:

1. It is the safest way to negotiate a stop sign controlled intersection. Period.

2. It is the law and you are breaking the law when you don't stop. A ticket for running a stop sign in Travis County can set you back $200.00.

3. Want respect from people in cars? Respect the rules of the road.

4. You're a good rider. You can spot potential dangers at an intersection without stopping, so you glance around and roll through. This approach works every time until the time that it doesn't. Then, what is the cost? A broken arm? A broken neck? Worse? A quick stop for time to double-check is worth it.

5. Future generations of cyclists are watching you. Help parents who are teaching their child to ride safely around the block by setting a good example.

6. Every time you maneuver your bike at slow speeds and every time you stop and start your bicycle, you deepen your relationship with your bike. You know how the bike feels the moment before you need to put your foot down. You know where to put your pedal for a smooth transition from stopped to moving. Eventually, your body does all of these things so naturally that you can focus your attention on the conditions of the intersection. That is safer for you and for everyone else on the road.

7. Fitness. Once you're safely rolling, take a few hard pedal strokes. You'll be surprised at how quickly you are back up to cruising speed. That little burn in your legs is what getting stronger rider feels like.

8. Clipping back in sounds cool, especially in a group.

9. Get flipped off less.

10. When not racing Mark Cavendish stops at stops signs. It's true. I read that somewhere.

The bottom line is that your safety is your responsibility. By being good road users, Austin cyclists can be part of establishing an ethos of safety. Ultimately, isn't that more fun for all of us?

--David Tietz, ACA Ride Director

Looking for a good ride this weekend?

2011-03-26T10:24:00.000-07:00

This Sunday (3/27) join the crew from Jack & Adam's for their monthly shop ride that leaves from the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse. The ride leaves promptly at 8:30. This week is also the booster for the April 10th High Five Events Round Rock Express ride and they'll be giving away some free entries to that event. Following the ride the brunch at the steakhouse is 1/2 price to all riders.

So if you are looking for some fun and a cheap brunch head over to the Steiner Ranch Steakhouse tomorrow morning.

Enjoy the ride.

Tim

Who says cyclists aren't tough?

2011-02-20T06:47:00.000-08:00

Azizulhasni Awang won a bronze medal at cycling’s Track World Cup on Saturday, and boy did he earn it.

The Malaysian rider managed to get back on his bike after a high-speed crash in the Keirin final and stagger across the line, but it was only afterward that the full extent of his injury became clear.

Pictures showed a large splinter of wood from the track had gone right through his left calf.

Awang was given third, but missed his moment on the podium because he was on his way to hospital. His bronze was enough for him to capture the series title ahead of Britain’s Chris Hoy, who won Saturday’s race.

Hoy was one of only two riders who completed the race without falling. He said he did not realize what had happened behind him until he crossed the line. “I was punching the air and showboating as I always do and when I came by the scoreboard I saw the officials pointing,” Hoy was quoted as saying by the Press Association. “I saw one guy, then two and then three, but with the noise of the crowd I couldn’t hear.

“It was pretty nasty.”

The crash involved four riders: Awang, Poland’s Kamil Kuczynski, Edward Dawkins of New Zealand and Juan Peralta Gascon of Spain. Awang got back on his bike, while Dawkins pushed his over the line. Peralta ran to the finish line without his bike and was disqualified. “Awang is always in there with the rough and tumble so it’s almost inevitable it’s going to happen to him at some point,” Hoy said.

New cobbles sections included in Paris-Roubaix

2011-02-08T11:37:00.000-08:00

The Hell of the North Gets Harder

Organizers of the Paris-Roubaix classic have included five new cobblestone sectors which are expected to make the 259-kilometer race known as the Hell of the North even harder.

The 108th edition of Paris-Roubaix, which will take place on April 10, will feature 31 cobblestone sectors totaling 53.4 kilometers.

Organizers, who completed the new route on Thursday, wanted to make the section leading to the demanding Tranchee d’Arenberg forest cobblestone path more difficult.

Riders will also experience a new section about 70 kilometers from the finish which “should be one of the strategic moments of the race,” organizers said.

Confidence

2011-01-25T05:54:00.001-08:00

This is something taken from Joe Friel's blog. Good stuff...

I believe that the most important thing an athlete takes to the start line on race day is confidence. It may even be more important than fitness or form. There are several things I do to help build confidence in those I coach. But the bottom line is that it has to come from inside. I can’t instill it; I can only encourage it and provide an on-going training experience that fosters it. Here are two little things I’ve learned along the way about how athletes can build their own confidence.

One of the things you can do to promote self-confidence is to build a bank account of successes. It’s easy. Every night when you go to bed, after you’re turned out the lights, you have the only time in the day when there are no external interruptions. This is a good time to run a quick check of the things you did that day in training. Find one thing you did well. It may not seem like a big deal. Maybe you climbed one hill well or had a good set on intervals. Relive that moment several times until you fall asleep. You just made a deposit into your confidence bank account.

Some of the deposits will be big, some will be small. But your account needs to grow each and every day. The week of a race you can start making withdrawals. Any time you feel a bit of anxiety about the upcoming race go back and pull one of those vivid success memories out of your account. Relive it. When the little voice in your head says you can’t do it make another withdrawal immediately. When someone expresses doubt about your chances of success make a withdrawal. When you step to the starting line make a withdrawal.

Never deposit the bad things or unwelcome moments in training. Never. Let them go. They’re trash. Stay focused on the positive experiences. Deposit only them in your account. Withdraw only them.

The second thing you can do to boost confidence and therefore performance is to “act as if.” Always assume the posture and disposition of a confident athlete. Always. Act as if you are confident. You’ll be amazed at what that does for your confidence.

So how does a confident athlete act? Look around and find athletes who exude confidence. What do they do and say that’s unique? Study them. What you will probably find is that they stand tall and proud. Their heads are up. They look people in the eyes when talking. They don’t denigrate others to try to elevate their own self-esteem. They move slowly, precisely and fluidly. Like athletes. It’s obvious they think of themselves positively.

Now you may not feel that way all the time but act like it anyway. Fake it till you make it. It’s remarkable how taking on the posture and demeanor of confidence breeds confidence even when you’re not feeling that way. It’s not possible to be confident with a defeated posture and demeanor. It’s like saying “yes” while shaking your head “no.” The two don’t go together.

So that’s the conversation I have with the athletes I coach when they need to build confidence. I’ve seen it work. Give it a try.

Great Grease Monkey Wipes Review

2011-01-20T08:16:00.001-08:00

The Bottom Line

Grease Monkey Wipes are a handy little thing to keep around, whether in your garage or in your bike bag. You'll be thankful you've got them when your hands are covered with grease and there's no easy way to get them clean. One little foil pouch produces a hanky-sized wipe with enough cleaning power and durability to take the grease right off your hands. And it's just the right size to throw a couple in your bike bag for those repairs on the road.

Pros

Powerful cleaner to take grease away quick
Durable wipes offer plenty of stamina for tough scrubbing
Fresh citrus smell makes your nose happy
Convenient size pouches for throwing in your bike bag
Larger cannister works good for your garage

Cons

Nothing to gripe about with these!

Description

7"x8" wipes
Made of durable cloth-like material
Fresh citrus smell
Sold as individual-use pouches or in larger cannister

Guide Review - Review: Grease Monkey Wipes

Picture yourself eating ribs. Your hands are sticky with BBQ sauce. Somebody hands you a wet-nap and suddenly all your problems are solved. This is what Grease Monkey Wipes do for you when you're working on your bike. Think about the truly greasy hands you get when you're cleaning your chain or working on anything with bearings. Grease Monkey Wipes are the wet-nap that takes that grease right off your hands.

I had the chance to try out some of the Grease Monkey Wipes in the individual packets. They didn't look like much at first, just little foil packets roughly the size of a business card. So I put them by my tools and kinda forgot about them until the day came that I had to work on my chain, and got my hands totally covered with grease. You know, the kind where you're trying to open the doorknob with your elbows because your hands are so nasty? Yeah, like that. So I got one of the Grease Monkey Wipes, tore the packet open, and unfolded the nice-sized 7"x8" wipe.

The first thing I noticed was that the wipe was made from a durable cloth-type material that stood up to a rigorous wiping for several minutes on my palms and fingers and in and around my knuckles without ripping. Way better than the flimsy stuff an actual wet-nap is made from. The second thing I noticed was a fresh and pleasant citrus smell, just the same as the smell that permeates the tubs of commercial hand cleaner the mechanic uses down at your local shop. The third thing I noticed was that it took the grease right off my hands. This is the kind of oily, dirty soiling that just scrubbing at with soap and water wouldn't have made a dent in. And the Grease Monkey Wipes took it right off like nothing.

So was I impressed? Yes. This is a handy thing to keep around, either in your shop or especially in your bike bag. If you're out riding and have a breakdown that you gotta fix, these wipes will clean you up fast, so you're not having to either ride with greasy hands or having to wipe them on your jersey to keep a grip on your handlebars.

Oh Floyd...

2011-01-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Disgraced rider Floyd Landis, the man who was stripped of his 2006 Tour de France title for doping and accused Lance Armstrong of cheating, has retired, the American said.

"I'll never start on a line on a road and try to get to another line on a road faster than another guy. That's over," Landis, 35, told ESPN.com.

Landis won the Tour in 2006 but failed a dope test for testosterone during the race and was stripped of the title.

He denied any wrongdoing until last May, when he admitted to doping and accused former team mate Armstrong, a seven-times Tour champion, and others of doping when they were both riding for the U.S. Postal team.

Landis took part in a few races in 2010 as an independent rider but failed to secure a proper contract.

By George I think he likes it

2011-01-07T11:53:00.000-08:00

It goes without saying that George Hincapie is one of the most recognized riders in the world, with numerous world championships, national championships and professional victories to his credit. Not only that but apparently he likes Grease Monkey Wipes. I knew I liked him for a reason.

Doping scandals mar cycling year—again

2010-12-27T18:46:00.000-08:00

PARIS (AP)—In many ways, cycling’s year was summed up by two key days. The first was when Alberto Contador took the Tour de France lead with a clever attack on a steep uphill climb in the Pyrenees. The other came just 48 hours later, when drug testers took a urine sample from the future Tour winner that contained traces of a banned substance.

In what was regarded as the defining moment of the Tour, Contador’s attack helped him drop runner-up Andy Schleck in the very tough climb of the Port de Bales during stage 15.

Schleck actually attacked first, but his chain came off and the three-time Tour winner sped ahead—taking the yellow jersey from his Luxembourg rival and gaining a 39-second advantage that would become his exact margin of overall victory a few days later on the Champs Elysees.

Many observers criticized the move, saying Contador had broken the sport’s unwritten rule about not taking advantage of unlucky breaks a rider can’t control—especially when he was wearing yellow.

The epic battle between Contador and Schleck during arguably the most thrilling Tour since Lance Armstrong won the fifth of his record-seven titles in 2003 at the expense of Jan Ullrich, was widely seen as the birth of a new great rivalry.

Fans and pundits cheered for the two champs and were bracing for a mouthwatering new era for a sport still reeling from years and years of doping scandals. But the celebrations didn’t last for Contador.

Only two months after triumphing in the heat of the French summer, the news broke that Contador, who also won the Tours of Spain and Italy in 2008, had been provisionally suspended by cycling’s governing body after small amounts of the banned muscle-building and fat-burning drug clenbuterol where found in one of his Tour samples.

It later emerged that a urine sample taken from Contador also showed abnormally high levels of plastic residues that could indicate he received a transfusion of his own blood during the race.

A tearful Contador denied everything, claiming his positive test resulted from eating contaminated meat. Whether or not he is eventually convicted of doping, great harm was done.

If Tour officials do strip his title, Contador would be just the second cyclist to be forced to relinquish it. The first was American Floyd Landis, who was stripped of his 2006 Tour title after a positive test.

UCI president Pat McQuaid continued to claim that cycling is the “cleanest of all sports,” while Italy’s anti-doping prosecutor Ettore Torri said in October he is convinced that all cyclists are doping.

A decision on whether Contador doped is expected early next year. But WADA and the UCI could appeal if they feel that justice was not done. That means Contador’s case could end up with the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Should Contador be banned, next year’s Tour could be deprived of its two most influential figures after Armstrong said last summer’s Tour was his last.

The American got off to a strong start but blew a tire on cobblestones in stage 3 then failed to recover in time from three crashes during the eighth stage, just before the tough Alpine climbs.

“With the first crash, my body never felt the same after that, and the second was the nail in the coffin,” Armstrong said. “So you could look at it like that, and yeah, it was one (Tour) too many.”

Armstrong finished in 23rd place, nearly 40 minutes behind Contador. He has not officially retired and will compete in smaller races next season as an ambassador for the fight against cancer.

Armstrong’s last ride in the race which made his name and wealth started amid controversy following accusations by Landis, his former teammate, that he had used performance-enhancing drugs to win.

The allegations against Armstrong and others ignited a federal investigation in the United States that reached new heights last month when American agents traveled to France for two days of talks with police officers and other officials from various European countries.

Armstrong has denied using drugs and his lawyers said the investigation is a huge waste of taxpayers’ dollars.

Despite the years of drug scandals, the Tour de France still attracted massive crowds, worldwide television audiences and reported increased income. In Luxembourg, a new team found big sponsors and a budget big enough to lure away some of the sport’s biggest stars from rival squads.

The new outfit reunites the Schleck brothers and Fabian Cancellara, and their main objective will be victory in the Tour de France.

Cancellara was accused in 2010 of using an electric bike after his wins in the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, but nothing was proven. The accusations prompted the UCI to implement bike checks during the Tour, and Cancellara, who was cleared and escaped sanctions, eventually won a fourth time trial world title in September in Australia, where Thor Hushovd powered to victory in the road race.

Also worth noting in 2010 was Ivan Basso’s victory in the Giro d’Italia for his first major title since returning from a two-year doping ban. Several other riders who served doping-related suspensions, including Denmark’s Michael Rasmussen and Italy’s Riccardo Ricco, are set to return next year.

Ricco, who tested positive for blood-booster CERA at the 2008 Tour de France after winning two stages, signed with the Vacansoleil team.

“I’ll just say that the leaders of this team were naive,” McQuaid said. “If I am the sports director, Ricco never joins my team.”

Team Radio Shack Munches on Quiznos

2010-12-08T19:47:00.000-08:00

DENVER (AP)—Lance Armstrong’s team has signed up to race in Colorado’s inaugural Quiznos Pro Challenge.

Race organizers announced Wednesday the first five teams to sign up for the event, which will be held in August. Lance Armstrong’s TeamRadio Shack is led by manager Johan Bruyneel, who has nine Tour de France victories as race director.

The other teams who have committed are HTC-Highroad, BMC Racing Team, Slipstream Sports/Team Garmin-Cervelo, all of the United States, and Liquigas-Cannondale of Italy.

Armstrong was instrumental in establishing the new race. It features seven stages through 11 cities, including Vail, Aspen and Denver.

Vanspeybrouck best of 'Boonen & friends' charity race

2010-12-05T07:10:00.000-08:00

Pieter Vanspeybrouck (Topsport Vlaanderen) won the second edition of the charity cyclo-cross event 'Boonen&Friends' around the Silver Lake in Mol, Belgium.

The 'Boonen&Friends' cyclo-cross race collects money for the project 'Move to Improve' which supports people with physical disabilities caused by brain damage. Last year they raised 40,000 Euros at the event.

The extreme cold of the last week turned the course into a toboggan-run but that didn't keep the riders from racing. Last year's winner Maarten Wynants (Quick Step) finished second ahead of Wouter Weylandt (Quick Step). The all-star race was won by triple cyclo-cross world champion Erwin Vervecken.

The Belgian won ahead of Dutch former professional and Sky directeur sportif Steven de Jongh and former CSC-Tiscali rider Koen Beeckman.

Tom Boonen, who has been training for the start of the 2011 season after a year wrecked by injury, started with a bang. He led the field from the start but quickly noticed the course was rather slippery and dropped back. After a flat tyre for last year's winner Wynants, the road to victory was paved for Vanspeybrouck. The latter is a former junior Belgian cyclo-cross champion.

Vervecken had to work hard for his victory in the all-stars race which was held just before the pro's race. De Jongh fired away after the start and for a long time it seemed he would win the race of retired cyclists. “Everybody expected me to win because I retired only recently.

When De Jongh created a gap right after the start I didn't think I would be able to close it down. I died twice during the race but in the end I managed to catch him,” Vervecken told cyclo-cross.info.

Big names like Michael Boogerd, Johan Museeuw, Eric Vanderaerden, Tom Steels and motorcross star Stefan Everts felt far less comfortable on the frozen course and finished at long distance from winner Vervecken.

Museeuw had a severe crash. He went over the handle bars and crashed in the snow. The former Spring Classics specialist abandoned the race little later.

Grease Monkey Wipes featured on local Fox affiliate

2010-11-09T19:57:00.000-08:00

Here is a nice video of Grease Monkey Wipes co-founder, Tim, training with the Austin Cycle Camp.

Contador signs with Saxo Bank team

2010-08-03T07:17:00.000-07:00

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)—Three-time Tour de France champion Alberto Contador will race for the Saxo Bank-SunGard team next season.

Team manager Bjarne Riis said Tuesday that the Spanish rider signed for two years. Contador, who said last week he would leave the Astana team at the end of the season and study his options, confirmed the announcement on his website.

“I think I’ve chosen the best option and I have confidence in Riis to build a great team in 2011,” Contador said. “I’m eager to start this new adventure together with a team and sponsors who have placed their trust in me and I want to show that they have not made a mistake.”

Contador gives the team a new leader after Tour de France runner-up Andy Schleck and his brother Frank announced last week they would leave the team.

Riis, who declined to disclose the financial details of the deal, said he believed Contador could improve as a rider.

“Alberto is a world class rider and it’s with great pride I can present him as a member of the team for the next two years,” the Dane said. “I believe we have not seen his full potential yet.”

“Contador is always in the game to win and I respect that and like his ambition to win the three great tours in one year,” Riis said.

He also announced that Saxo Bank would remain a co-sponsor of the team next year. The online investment bank had previously said it would end its support at the end of 2010.

“Bjarne Riis has delivered excellent results over the past couple of years and has an impressive plan for 2011,” Saxo Bank co-founders Kim Fournais and Lars Seier Christensen said. “We believe it’s important to recognize an unprecedented opportunity when you see one and therefore, we have decided to continue our sponsorship for one more year.”

SunGard, an IT services company based in Wayne, Pa., had previously agreed to co-sponsor the team next year.

Contador said support of the team sponsors “has also been decisive in choosing this proposal.”

Great Story from One of our Customers

2010-07-29T08:46:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share a funny story with you. I saw y'all on TV, and as soon as I had a chance to purchase your product, I did. Well, the other day was Cow Appreciation Day at Chik-fil-A. Don't know if you know about that, but if you dress HEAD TO TOE cow, you can get a free meal there.

I didn't have a lot of money to make a costume, but I sure wanted that free food.

So in order to me Head to Toe, I used a permanent marker on my arms and legs to make cow spots. The reason I knew I could do this and not look goofy for days later was that I was positive that Grease Monkey Wipes could take off the marker. And I was right.

We love the Wipes on our home, and use them often. Thanks, Grease Monkey Wipes, for giving me a good day. (We won't even talk about how I had to go through the mall in cow gear!)

Love, Gari S.

(What a fantastic story from one of our customers. Do you have a story like this? If so send it to us and maybe you will be featured on our blog in the near future.)

2010 Tour de France at a Glance

2010-06-28T18:15:00.000-07:00

PARIS, June 28 (Reuters) - The route for the 2010 Tour de France starting on Saturday: July 3: Prologue - Rotterdam, 8.9 km

It will be the first time the Tour de France starts with a prologue since the London grand depart in 2007. The route will be flat and is likely to favour a specialist like Swiss Fabian Cancellara. July 4: Stage 1 - Rotterdam - Brussels, 223.5 km

A flat stage that is likely to be decided in a mass sprint. July 5: Stage 2 - Brussels - Spa, 201 k

The peloton will go through the Ardennes region with sections from the Fleche Wallonne and Liege-Bastogne-Liege classics. Pure sprinters may find it hard to keep it up with the favourites. July 6: Stage 3 - Wanze - Arenberg Porte du Hainaut, 213 k

Four cobblestone sections feature in the final 30 km. July 7: Stage 4 - Cambrai - Reims, 153.5 km

A flat, short stage that will be welcome by the peloton after the previous day. A mass sprint is likely. July 8: Stage 5 - Epernay - Montargis, 187.5 km

A stage for the sprinters, but the favourites could let a breakaway go all the way. July 9: Stage 6 - Montargis - Gueugnon, 227.5 km

Team HTC Columbia are expected to control the stage to favour sprinter Mark Cavendish. July 10: Stage 7 - Tournus - Station des Rousses, 165.5 km

The stage goes up and down, with six climbs on the menu. Not one for the pure climbers though. July 11: Stage 8 - Station des Rousses - Morzine Avoriaz, 189 km

The first high mountains stage. Champion Alberto Contador should make a move to prove a point, although he might want to wait a bit before taking the leader’s yellow jersey. July 12: Rest day - Morzine Avoriaz July 13: Stage 9 - Morzine Avoriaz - St Jean de Maurienne, 204.5 km

Two category one climbs and one out of category on this Alpine stage. But the top of the Col de la Madeleine is 32 km from the finish, so the favourites are unlikely to attack as they will want to avoid being isolated in the descent to St Jean de Maurienne. July 14: Stage 10 - Chambery - Gap, 179 km

The descent from the Col du Noyer is a very tricky one. In 2003, Joseba Beloki crashed and Lance Armstrong had to cut through a field to avoid a mishap. July 15: Stage 11 - Sisteron - Bourg les Valence, 184.5 km

A favourable terrain for the sprinters. July 16: Stage 12 - Bourg de Peage - Mende, 210.5 km

The stage ends with the climb of the Cote de Mende and a likely battle between the favourites. With sections of the climb having a gradient of over 10 per cent, some could suffer. July 17: Stage 13 - Rodez - Revel, 196 km

One of the last chances to shine for those who do not like the mountains. July 18: Stage 14 - Revel - Ax 3 Domaines, 184,5 km

The final climb comes shortly after the demanding ascent to the Col de Pailheres. One for the big guns. July 19: Stage 15 - Pamiers - Bagneres de Luchon, 187.5 km

The final descent is extremely tricky. One could lose the Tour there. July 20: Stage 16 - Bagneres de Luchon - Pau, 199.5 km

Although the last ascent is far from the finish, there are four tough climbs: Aubisque, Tourmalet, Aspin, Peyresourde. In 1969, Eddy Merckx tackled these four climbs to win after a 180-km solo breakaway. July 21: Rest day - Pau July 22: Stage 17 - Pau - Col du Tourmalet, 174 km

The Col du Tourmalet will be ascended for the second time in three days as the Tour celebrates the centenary of the Pyrenees in the race. Obviously a stage for a good climber. July 23: Stage 18 - Salies de Bearn - Bordeaux, 198 km

One for the sprinters. Teams will battle it out for the teams classification as well. July 24: Stage 19 - Bordeaux-Pauillac, individual time trial 52 km

A completely flat time trial, the only one in this year’s Tour. July 25: Stage 20 - Longjumeau - Paris Champs Elysees, 102.5 km The usual final parade featuring eight loops on the Champs Elysees.

Total distance: 3,642 km

This is about as newsworthy as a study that shows beer gets you drunk

2010-06-22T11:11:00.000-07:00

GENEVA (AP)—Team RadioShack has confirmed that Lance Armstrong will ride in next month’s Tour de France.

Team director Johan Bruyneel says Tuesday that seven-time Tour winner Armstrong will be joined by Andreas Kloeden of Germany, Americans Levi Leipheimer and Chris Horner, and Janez Brajkovic of Slovenia.

Also racing for RadioShack will be Portugal’s Sergio Paulinho, Yaroslav Popovych of Ukraine, Swiss rider Gregory Rast and Dmitriy Muravyev of Kazakhstan.

The 38-year-old Armstrong finished second in the Tour of Switzerland on Sunday, performing well in the mountain stages and the time trials.

Armstrong crashed at the Tour of California in May but escaped serious injury.

The Tour’s 97th edition begins July 3 in the Dutch port of Rotterdam.

Summer Tee Shirt Sale

2010-06-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

Announcing the Grease Monkey Wipes summer tee shirt sale.

All in stock tees 30% off, no discount code needed.

Hurry supplies are limited and this offer will only run for a limited time. So get on over to http://bit.ly/9ntymO
and get yours today.

Thanks and enjoy the ride.

Tim

The Missle from Mann crashes at the Tour de Suisse

2010-06-16T06:45:00.001-07:00

The Missle from Mann crashes at the Tour de Suisse

2010-06-16T06:44:00.001-07:00

Priceless

2010-05-18T19:38:00.000-07:00

White Ceepo Venom Time Trial Frameset: $3,000

White Sidi Ergo 2 Shoes: $500

White Assos FI 13 S5 Bib Shorts: $340

White Assos EVO Jersey: $270

White Bar Tape: $20

Having the foresight to stash a $0.99 Grease Monkey Wipes in your saddle bag or jersey pocket in case you get a flat so you can keep all your whites pristine: PRICELESS

Giro leader Vinokourov gives up Tour goals

2010-05-12T06:48:00.000-07:00

LONDON, May 12 (Reuters) - Alexandre Vinokourov has given up any hopes of winning the Tour de France later this year and will concentrate on helping team mate Alberto Contador to a third title, the Astana rider told Reuters.

The 36-year-old, who served a two year suspension for blood doping, is a surprise leader of the Giro d’Italia heading into Wednesday’s fourth stage, a 33-kilometre team time trial, and his goal was to win the Italian crown before aiding Contador in July.

“In the past everything was for victory as team leader at the Tour,” he told Reuters in a telephone interview from his hotel near Savigliano, Italy. “This year I have a different goal.

“I came to the Giro in my peak form, so the Giro is number one for me, and at the Tour de France my goal will be to help Contador win, so I will ride the Giro, take a break, then ride the Tour.”

Vinokourov, who denied any wrongdoing when he tested positive for blood doping in the 2007 Tour de France and was suspended for two years, added while being back in the sport had reinvigorated him he was aware his career was winding down.

“I hope to stay in professional cycling, because I’ve spent most of my life in bike racing, and I’d like to stay doing my favourite thing,” he said when asked of any future plans.

“That will all be seen either in this year or in the next one, how I do in the races. I’ll make a decision after the Tour de France.”

Vinokourov made a low-key return last year when his suspension ended and has won two major races already this year, at Italy’s Giro del Trentino and then the Liege-Bastogne-Liege race in Belgium, where he was booed by spectators and grilled heavily by the media.

Despite his earlier success, the ethnic Russian from the tiny farm village of Beshikul in northern Kazakhstan, was still surprised that he was in such strong form in Italy.

“I didn’t expect the pink jersey,” he said in reference to taking a surprise lead on Monday after a windswept third stage in the Netherlands knocked dozens of riders to the ground.

“To wear the pink jersey at my first Giro, it’s more than I could have dreamed.

“If we hold on it remains to be seen, because it’s still a long way to (the end of the race in) Verona and I don’t want to kill the team.

“The last week will be really hard, and so it’s better for the team to preserve it’s strength.”

Armstrong Returns to Tour of the Gila

2010-04-21T22:06:00.001-07:00

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)—Lance Armstrong is returning to the Tour of the Gila.

The seven-time Tour de France champion competed in the New Mexico event last year and has decided to return for next week’s five-day race, held in the Silver City area.

“Not only do the state and the local fans embrace this race, but the terrain, competition, and timing is perfect,” Armstrong said in a statement released by bicycle components manufacturer Sram Corp., the event’s title sponsor.

“We are looking forward to taking the start in Silver City. It’s a great event,” he said.

Armstrong will be joined by his friend and teammate, Levi Leipheimer, who claimed two stage victories in winning last year’s Tour of the Gila overall title. Armstrong finished second.

“The second time around is even better,” race director Jack Brennan said Wednesday. “They saw the race. They experienced it and they wanted to come back. They had a good experience last year. They found the race to be of value in their preparation for the Tour of California and the Tour de France.”

Jason McCartney, another member of Armstrong’s Team RadioShack, will join them.

However, the three Team RadioShack cyclists will compete independently of their squad because of a rule barring ProTour teams from national level events. Like last year, Armstrong will wear the kit of the Mellow Johnny’s bike shop in Austin, Texas.

Chris Horner raced with Armstrong and Leipheimer in 2009, when all three were members of the Astana team.

Armstrong wasn’t expected to come back to New Mexico, but he’ll be on the start line Wednesday. The race, which covers 339 miles and features 25,231 feet of climbing, runs through May 2.

Last year, the Tour of the Gila fit into Armstrong’s comeback schedule as he recovered from a broken collarbone. While it helped him prepare for the Giro d’Italia, team general manager Johan Bruyneel indicated then that Armstrong and Leipheimer normally wouldn’t have attended the Gila.

Armstrong changed his mind, encouraged not only by Silver City’s support of the race but because the Gila competition will again feature his developmental squad. The Trek-Livestrong team is led by young talent Taylor Phinney.

Armstrong Sick as a Dog?

2010-04-07T07:46:00.000-07:00

ANGERS, France (AP)—Lance Armstrong has pulled out of the Circuit de la Sarthe race in western France before the second day because of an illness.

The seven-time Tour de France champion, who was looking forward to Wednesday’s time trial, was suffering from diarrhea, vomiting and a fever, Team RadioShack spokesman Philippe Maertens said.

“It’s really bad, believe me,” Maertens said by phone.

The team released a statement Wednesday saying Armstrong had come down with a “viral intestinal infection” after the first stage Tuesday.

“He will return to the US as soon as his condition allows,” the statement said.

Overnight, Armstrong wrote on his Twitter page: “Sicker than a dog now. This sucks.”

The American, who was riding in the four-day race as part of his preparation for the Tour de France in July, had previously tweeted that several of his eight teammates who rode in Sunday’s Tour of Flanders had caught “a stomach bug.”

The race was Armstrong’s first competition in mainland France this year and he was 29th overall after the first stage on Tuesday, won by Spain’s Luis Leon Sanchez.

“Lance was really keen on performing well, especially in the time trial of Wednesday afternoon,” said Team RadioShack sporting director Alain Gallopin in the statement. He said Armstrong showed improvement at the Tour of Flanders.

Team RadioShack announced Tuesday that Armstrong would not compete as previously planned in the Amstel Gold race on April 18, and he will return to the United States after the Sarthe race.

Maertens said Armstrong wanted to spend time with his family and felt fit enough to prepare at home. He plans to ride in the Tour of California in May before returning to Europe for the Dauphine Libere or the Tour of Switzerland in June.

ONE DAY SALE

2010-03-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!!

At Grease Monkey Wipes we are proud to offer a "green" degreasing wipe. Our all-natural cleaning formula powers through the toughest grease and grime.

Since it is St. Patrick's Day we decided to run a one day sale of 25% off all items at our online store.

You can visit the store here.

All you have to do is put "green" in the discount area. But hurry up, the sale ends at midnight tonight.

Luck of the Irish to ya.

Expo West 2010 Recap

2010-03-17T08:29:00.000-07:00

Over the past weekend, I headed out to Anaheim California for Natural Products Expo West, known as "the world's largest natural and organic products tradeshow." To sum it up, I nicknamed this show "The Academy Awards of Whole Foods." Every product you could expect to find at Whole Foods, or any other natural specialty store, or really even your everyday grocery store, was there.

Grease Monkey Wipes has been blessed in so many ways, especially after the Shark Tank aired. In this instance, we received an email from a most generous man in California who essentially offered to be our mentor in the grocery store and natural products industry. After numerous phone calls and emails, I finally found myself face to face with him after picking up my Expo West badge.

From there, he walked the entire trade show with me, introducing me to presidents, CEOS, sales managers, distributors, key players, etc... and taught me how the industry works. One word: Priceless!!!

One of the contacts I made was Ricky from Earthworm. First, I must recommend his products, which are earth-friendly natural cleaners. Next, I must say that this guy has serious energy and passion. He took just one product from an idea to national distribution. You can find these products all over the country (and you should!) - and it's all because of Ricky. He spent nearly an hour talking to me, teaching me the ropes, and answering my questions all while selling like a madman- awesome!

Here we are each showing off our earth-friendly products.
Here is an example of a company that I loved. I spoke with the president and national sales manager for a while, all while snacking happily on their freeze-dried fruits. (YUM!)

During the show, I was surprised that people actually recognized me. I will say it was probably our monkey logo that caught people's attention, however it was still cool that people knew about Grease Monkey Wipes.

One of those people who recognized me was Paul from Kor. Here we are standing in front of his very sleek water bottles. I spoke at length with Paul about how he formed his company and what his sales strategies look like. It was so cool to talk to another business owner about his experiences... and this was just one of many conversations I had like this.

As a cyclist, of course I know Camelbak from my cycling/running background - and it was so cool that people in that company also recognized Grease Monkey Wipes! Thanks for the new insulated bottle, guys - I appreciate it!

I spoke with so many companies, it's hard to keep track. But I'll try to remember some of my other favorites, including: Marzetti, dermaE, Miltons, Erin Baker's, Food Should Taste Good, Eternal Water, Frontera Foods, Red Leaf Water, fellow Austinites Beanitos and ThinkBaby, Kaia, Eat Cleaner, and fellow Shark Tankers Element Bars.

Overall, it was an amazing eye-opening trip. Many contacts were made. Much was learned. I am now even more confident in the success of Grease Monkey Wipes.

And... I am thankful to the kindness of a total stranger who is taking us under his wing. We will owe much of our future success to him.

Now it's time to hit the bike to work off all of the samples I got from these amazing companies! :)

Jack's First Tri

2010-03-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

This was taken from the Jack & Adams blog and describes Jack's first triathlon experience...

With Triathlon season quickly approaching, many triathletes reminiscence about their first tri, while newcomers eagerly anticipate the endeavor. Here, Jack Murray, owner of Jack & Adam's Bicycles, writes about his first triathlon. (from the J&A newsletter archives, March 2008)

Almost every day customers visit our shop seeking advice on participating in their first triathlon. When I have the opportunity to help someone in this situation, I share with them the story of my first tri in hopes of helping them feel more comfortable about their endeavor.

It was the summer of 1994. The event was the Victoria Splash & Dash in Victoria, Texas. I had trained for a few weeks and was sure I was in peak condition for an easy victory. I was, after all, fresh off a 1600 meter run victory and bronze in the 3200 at the Texas High School Championship Relays. How hard could a little tri be? I thought I knew all there was to know about swimming, biking, and running. Turns out - I knew nothing!

The morning started with me loading my bike into the trunk of my mom's car and driving with her and my sister to the event one hour away. I arrived around 6 AM for an 8 AM start. This was before on-line registration, so I registered for the event that morning and picked up my packet. As people started to arrive, I noticed the differences between my rusty old mountain bike and some of their $2000 race machines. My confidence, however, was not crushed; I was still sure I could win. After racking my bike, I headed over to the pool area where everyone was warming up. As I got closer, I noticed everyone was wearing tight swimsuits and goggles. I was sure, however, that my baggy Umbro "soccer shorts" and lack of goggles was the best way to go. My plan was simple - go as fast as I could for as long as I could.

They were letting swimmers go every 5 seconds and we had to snake up and down the pool for a total of 300 meters. I patiently waited in line until 5,4,3,2,1 go, I was off. I swam as fast as I could to the other side and then back again. 50 meters down 250 to go. By 150 my arms started to hurt and my eyes were stinging from the chlorine. By 200 I was kicking off the bottom every few strokes and swimming with my eyes closed, by 250 I was just trying to get out of the water alive, and without my shorts falling off. After the swim, I was sure I was still in good position to hold my own on the bike.

I grab my bike out of transition and head out on to the 12 mile course. As I start to ride I realize I am not catching anyone. The rusty, old mountain bike that I borrowed from my high school track coach was not the stallion I thought it was. Riding around the block a few times for training was probably not the riding that all these people were doing. The fact that my bike could not shift was more trouble than I thought it would be. And looking back, my saddle was also about 5 to 7 inches to low. Towards the end of the ride I was being passed by a 10 year old girl and her mom; it was then that I started to feel my big victory slipping away. Still I was determined to blaze through transition and light up the run.

Transition to the run was probably my most memorable moment. As I speed to the transition area, volunteers are yelling at me to dismount my bike. As I go to lift my feet off the pedals, I forget that they are hooked in by cages. The combination of speed and my feet getting caught was enough to send me crashing like a bowling ball into a bike rack with about 6 bikes on it. The volunteers quickly help me up and as I throw my bike in the grass next to a picnic table (the rack was down), I remember thinking how much fun I was having. The whole day was something I had never experienced before.

It took about a mile into the run before I got my legs out of bike riding mode. I had no idea how riding a bike would effect legs on the run. As I rounded the final stretch I saw all these happy people cheering for me, eating, drinking, and just having a good time. I talked to people for about an hour. I met a guy my age that had been doing triathlons for years. I met some members of the Corpus Christi tri club and was invited to their next meeting. I signed up for their monthly newsletter. In short - I was hooked. It was nothing I thought it would be. It was fun and I discovered a whole different type of people that did not exist in my 5000 person hometown.

Through the years of collegiate running, duathlons, sprint tri's, half Ironman events, Ironman events, and working in the shop, my first tri memory will forever help me keep our sport in perspective. It is not about where you finish, what type of bike you have, what you do for a living, where you are from or where you are going. It is about having fun and that is it. You can have many goals in our sport without forgetting this key element. I am constantly reminded of this by some of the greatest in the sport like Michael Lovato and James Bonney. If you ask either of them why they have dedicated and built their lives around this sport, they will tell you the same.

Gary Fisher, Mellow Johnny’s sponsor Hotel San Jose team

2010-02-26T12:25:00.000-08:00

Team Hotel San Jose, an Austin, Texas-based road team, has two new sponsors for this season, Gary Fisher Bicycles and the Mellow Johnny’s bike shop.

The team’s full name is now Team Hotel San José/Mellow Johnny’s Presented by Subaru-Gary Fisher.

“Having the support of companies that are so easily integrated into the cycling scene is both exciting and satisfying,” said Todd Reed, the team’s executive director.

Gary Fisher Bicycles is supplying the team with Gary Fisher Cronus custom carbon road bikes (custom painted in the squad’s green, orange and black color scheme) with SRAM Red components and HED carbon wheels. Gary Fisher himself will be on hand Friday night at Mellow Johnny’s to showcase his support of the team in an event that is open to the public.

Poor Contador

2010-02-25T11:39:00.000-08:00

Alberto Contador isn’t happy about the UCI’s decision to ban his Specialized Shiv time trial bike on the eve of Sunday’s decisive final TT in the Volta ao Algarve.

The UCI notified Astana and Saxo Bank team management via e-mail Friday that the Shiv time trial bike – which was unveiled as a prototype in last year’s Tour de France – did not conform to UCI’s rules.

“I am not happy about it, but we are working together to get something ready. It was a surprise for everyone,” said Contador. “I’ve been training on the Shiv for months and now I have to race on something I’ve never ever ridden before. The other bike is no better or worse, it’s just that it’s a different bike. Tomorrow we’ll just to do the best we can.”

The point of contention is a reinforced section of frame between the head tube and down tube that helps flow air around the down tube and provides extra stability. This section of frame extends beyond an 8cm “box” measured across the cross-section of the tube as outlined in UCI rules.

When measured off the head tube, the bike fits within the rules, but because this part of the frame wraps around to the down tube, the UCI also insisted that a measurement also be taken off the down tube. It was here that the bike ran into trouble and extended beyond the 8cm limit.

The ruling immediately affects riders at both Specialized-sponsored ProTour teams, Astana and Saxo Bank. Saxo Bank riders competing in this week’s Ruta del Sol also will not be allowed to use the bikes. The bike is still “street legal” for use in triathlon.

Company officials in Portugal said they have been working closely with the UCI since last year to assure that the Shiv would be compliant to UCI rules. Dating back to last summer, Specialized twice changed design aspects after the UCI raised concerns and met face-to-face with UCI officials to discuss the frame.

Despite a month’s long dialogue with UCI officials, they insist they didn’t hear about the UCI’s concerns until late January, and by then, the bikes were already in the hands of riders preparing for the first major races of the 2010 season.

“We are extremely frustrated, because we were in contact with the UCI since last year and we never got a clear indication there was a problem with the bike until January 29,” said Simone Toccafondi, sports marketing manager for the road Specialized. “We want to fully cooperate with the UCI and comply with their rules. We believed we were doing the right thing.”

UCI officials could not be contacted for comment on this story, but the UCI has been making noises about stricter enforcement of design guidelines dating back to last year’s Tour of California.

There’s been some confusion and different interpretations of UCI rules language and how they are applied to time trial bike design.

Stunned by the UCI decision, officials from Astana and Specialized on the ground in Portugal put aside their frustration and mobilized Saturday to prepare a new bike for Contador’s defense of his yellow jersey.

Instead of racing The Shiv for the first time, Contador instead will compete on a 2009 Transition TT frame that was modified to meet UCI requirements. Mechanics literally sawed off 2cm of two reinforcements off the bike to fall within the 8cm rule.

The pieces could be trimmed off the Transition frame because they were not an integral part of the frame material. It would be impossible to cut them off the Shiv, however, without damaging the integrity of the carbon-fiber frame.

Contador briefly rode the modified bike following Saturday’s stage to get a feel for the bike and to get the best fit possible. Although other Transition frames arrived, the other Astana riders will likely ride on their road bikes with aero wheels and handlebar extenders because the focus was on pulling together Contador’s bike.

The ruling underscores the sometimes thin line that bike manufacturers must straddle in trying to comply with the UCI’s rules, yet try to push the envelope when it comes to bike design and development.

Bruyneel set to lead RadioShack in Tour de France

2010-02-23T18:35:00.001-08:00

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP)—Johan Bruyneel has a new team but an old feeling as he gets ready to go for a 10th Tour de France title this year.

Bruyneel helped lead Lance Armstrong to seven straight Tour de France titles from 1999-2005. He also won eight team Tour titles with USPS and Discovery before winning with Astana last year.

Now, he is the director of Armstrong’s newly formed RadioShack Cycling Team and said he’s happy to have total control after a tough year with Astana.

“It’s my team, it’s the team I built, and it’s going to be a good atmosphere,” Bruyneel said Friday. “That’s the main reason I’m back into my team. Astana has never felt as my team.”

Bruyneel was in Colorado as the featured speaker at the USA Triathlon International Coaching Symposium. During his nearly two-hour speech, he talked about his relationship with Armstrong and his struggles with Astana in 2009.

Despite winning the team title, and coaching overall winner Alberto Contador, it wasn’t a fulfilling experience for Bruyneel. He clashed with Contador and the sponsors, and his loss of control led to his decision to leave the team.

“It was not a very hard decision because of the sometimes stress-filled relationship with Alberto, and the difficulties within the team and with the sponsors of the team. It was a very difficult relationship I had,” he said.

There was tension between Contador and Armstrong, who finished third. Contador said publicly he “never had admiration for Armstrong,” and Armstrong countered that Contador had “lots to learn.”

Bruyneel and Armstrong left Astana to form RadioShack.

“It’s basically the same relationship with the same people. It’s a co-partnership with Lance and his management,” Bruyneel said. “It’s like Discovery and Postal again.”

Bruyneel said Armstrong, even at 38, is motivated to win his eighth Tour. The cancer survivor came out of retirement last year.

“He’s super motivated to beat Alberto, but at the same time he knows it’s going to be difficult,” Bruyneel said. “I think that brings his motivation to a higher level.”

Floyd Landis: Evil Computer Hacker?

2010-02-16T09:14:00.000-08:00

A French judge has issued an arrest warrant for Floyd Landis for allegedly hacking into a French anti-doping lab’s computer system, the president of the French anti-doping agency told AFP Friday.

The investigation into the alleged hacking began in 2006.

Pierre Bordry, head of the French agency, told AFP Landis used documents that were “illegally hacked from the authority’s laboratory computer system” in his defense after he was stripped of his 2006 Tour de France win following a positive test for drugs. A French judge issued the warrant on January 28 in response to the American’s failure to answer a summons issued in November, Bordry said.

According to Bordry, the warrant applies to those countries, including the U.S., with which France has an extradition agreement. However, French authorities have since said that the warrant applies only to French national territory.

The judge intends to ask him “to explain how he came to obtain certain information that was used in his defense,” added Bordry.

Landis did not immediately return a message VeloNews left on his cell phone voice mail. But in an e-mail to The Los Angeles Times, he denied the hacking allegation and said no warrant had been served against him.

“I can’t speak for Arnie (Baker), but no attempt has been made to formally contact me,” Landis said in the e-mail. “It appears to be another case of fabricated evidence by a French lab who is still upset a United States citizen believed he should have the right to face his accusers and defend himself.” Baker, a former American rider and cycling coach for whom an arrest warrant was issued in November, is also being sought by the French authorities in connection with the affair.

Landis tested positive for a skewed testosterone-epitestosterone ratio following the 17th stage of the 2006 edition of the Tour de France. He had won that stage in spectacular fashion with a solo attack that virtually secured him the yellow jersey only 24 hours after a dramatic collapse on stage 16.

But he was stripped of his Tour win in September 2007, more than a year after he crossed the finishing line on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. He was banned from racing for two years, making his return in January 2009.

During that time he carried on the legal fight to the international Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), sport’s highest appeal authority, which threw out his case in June 2008 and ordered him to pay $100,000 in judicial costs to the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

The accusation of hacking first arose when the AFLD lodged legal proceedings on November 7, 2006, after becoming aware that documents belonging to them had been used in Landis’ defense.

According to sources close to the inquiry the electronic paper trail led them to Baker’s computer address.

Contacted by VeloNews in April of last year, Baker denied involvement in the alleged attempts to break into the lab’s computer system.

“I did not hack into, nor did I help or hire anyone to hack into the LNDD computer system,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, Landis continues to race. He competed in the Tour of the Bahamas in January and this past weekend raced in Arizona’s Valley of the Sun.

9 Tips to a Safer Ride with Trey Steele

2010-02-10T13:06:00.000-08:00

Stolen from our friends at Jack & Adams and written by Trey Steele. Trey is the co-founder of the Grease Monkey Wipes sponsored Austin Cycle Camp. Some great information...

The roads of Central Texas are bustling with the sounds of cars, trucks, SUV’s, and the lovely hum of hubs, cogs, chains, and cranks that signal cycling hibernation is over and it’s time to start thinking about the 2010 season. Whether you’re a total road rookie or seasoned veteran, the simple fact is that as the number of vehicles and bicycles on the roads increase, so do your chances of being involved in an accident. Here are nine tips to help make this season a safe one.

Tip 1 – If you wouldn’t do it in you car, don’t do it on your bike

We can talk forever about rules of the road, riding defensively, and the like. But the bottom line is that if you’re about to do something on your bike you would never think of doing in your car, don’t. I see cyclists blow through red lights and tempt their fate at four way stops. If you’re trying to see how fast you can go, sign up for a race. Otherwise, set an example for everyone and follow the traffic laws. That’s cooler than ending up in ICU.

Tip 2 – Carry Identification

In the event something happens, it’s important for emergency personnel to know who you are and any existing medical conditions they may need to be aware of. That can be as easy as carrying a cell phone and programming an I.C.E. number (in case of emergency). There are also other options available including Road I.D., an identification band that provides first responders a number to call for your pertinent medical history. In fact, J&A will soon be carrying Road I.D., so drop by and pick one up!

Tip 3 – Ride away from the sun

As winter slowly fades, it leaves the sun at some seriously blinding angles this time of the year. There’s no reason to be riding East early in the morning right now. It’s very easy for a driver not to see you (or even another car for that matter). Get in the habit of riding away from the sun. Not only will your eyes thank you for not having to squint through your glasses, you’ll give motorists a better chance of seeing you.

Tip 4 – Find roads where the traffic speed is slower

A good rule of thumb is if the posted speed limit is 35 mph or slower, you have a lower risk of being in an accident with a car. Simply put, slower moving vehicles give drivers more time to react. If you need to do some training on a road with a faster speed limit, look for shoulders that are at least a car width wide. The usual suspects of 360 and Bee Cave road are good options. INSIDE TIP – watch for right turns. Once the speed of the road gets up, your biggest risk is cars turning right. Find roads with a limited number of right turns.

Tip 5 – Lights are cool

If you’re riding in the morning or evening (like most of us), get some lights. And no, high visibility clothing does not replace a light. Go ahead and get one for the front of your bike as well. I would recommend a rear light that uses LED bulbs and flashes at varying intervals and intensity. INSIDE TIP - try before you buy. If you have a saddlebag that sits at an angle, take your bike in and work with someone in the shop to find a light that works. Bottom line – if it’s flashing at the moon, the big black SUV behind you may not see it.

Tip 6 – The Rear Wheel Rules

When riding in a pace line, if you’re not looking at the rear wheel right in front of you, you’re looking at a crash. In fact, over 85% of all bicycle crashes occur with another bicycle, not a motorist. And if you want to end up eating a pavement sandwich, the fastest way to do that is overlap your front wheel with the rear wheel of the rider in front of you. The rear wheel is only part of the “cockpit” you should be checking including left and right of the cyclist in front of you and an occasional glance to the front of the train. If you want to enjoy a respite from the wind by drafting, that begins as far as two feet behind the rider in front of you. The closer you get should be dependent on your handling skills but most importantly, how well you know that rider and what their tendencies are.

Tip 7 – Communicate

If I’m riding behind you, I’m not easily able to see road debris, obstructions, or any obstacle that could cause me to touch pavement. It’s your responsibility in a group ride to communicate these to the riders behind you. If you’re new to cycling, you’ve probably seen riders using hand signals to communicate these obstacles to one another. Just like the opening scene from A Few Good Men, theses gestures should be passed along quickly. And if someone points out something on the road, that’s a good time to move slightly in the opposite direction of the point. Don’t be a rubbernecker! Just pass the gesture along and move aside. Likewise for any verbal command passed forward. “Car back” means just that. Slide over, position yourself single file, and allow the vehicle to pass safely. If in doubt, Point or Yell it out.

Tip 8 – Get off the road

At some point in your cycling career, you will encounter a mechanical issue with your bike. It could be something as simple as a flat or more complex like a broken chain. In any case, it’s important to assess the situation and perform your repair OFF THE ROAD. And this goes for anyone else on the group ride who has stopped to wait for the repair. I’ve seen more than one rider stick their “tail” out in traffic during a mechanical stop completely oblivious to the fact. If you’re on a group ride and everyone stops for a mechanical issue, get yourself completely off the road.

Tip 9 – Be Vigilant, Not a Vigilante

If you do end up in a collision with a vehicle, try to remain as calm as possible. It’s easy to find yourself in a state of shock and the next thing you know, you’re trying to take matters into your own hands. This is usually more the case if you’re part of a group ride and someone else in your group is struck. If the vehicle involved in the accident stops, call 911 and provide detailed information about your location. If they don’t stop, do your best to get a vehicle description, license plate number, and provide that to authorities when you make your call to 911. Then turn your attention to keeping everyone calm until help arrives.

Being safe is a responsibility we all share. If you work on it the same way you do any other part of your training, 2010 should be one of your safest ever.

Great stuff Trey...

Trey Steele is a USA Cycling Certified Coach and Co Founder of Austin Cycle Camp, providing fitness camps and skills clinics to cyclists of all ability levels.

Racing this week: Mallorca, Qatar and Tour Med

2010-02-08T10:12:00.001-08:00

February is a time to clear out the cobwebs, stretch the legs and get back to the business of racing.

It’s common to see Australians and Spanish riders take early-season victories, thanks in part of the mild winter (or summer, for the Aussies), which allows them to train almost uninterrupted throughout the off-season.

Some riders come in guns a-blazin’, looking to notch some confidence-building wins and hone form for the spring classics. Others are just looking to put some race miles in the legs for goals further on down the road.

In either case, everyone seems glad to be back at race speed. This week, the Mallorca Challenge in Spain’s Balearic islands and the Tour Mediterranéen along France’s Med coast fit the bill. And then there’s the Tour of Qatar, entering its ninth edition of one of cycling’s most exotic locales for a race.

Post Shark Tank Update

2010-02-01T17:58:00.001-08:00

For those who are curious, the response from Shark Tank was greater than we ever imagined. We thought we would share a few stats:

1) Grease Monkey Wipes was the #1 most searched term on Google the night of the show, and #3 the following day.
2) Web traffic to www.greasemonkeywipes.com increased by over 6,000%.
3) We nearly tripled our sales from 2009 in 1 week.
4) We have received thousands of emails since the show. Tim & I are trying our best to personally respond to each one. (We're finally just about finished)
5) We now have people knocking on OUR door, versus us begging them to answer theirs.
6) Our little company has legs, and we are so much closer to creating a global wipe empire!

For anyone curious, we talk with Barbara, Chelsea (who works with Barbara) and/or Robert at least a few times a week. The deal was real - and they are amazing mentors.

Tim & I are counting our blessings every day... and again extending thanks to all of our supporters. THANK YOU!

Basic Bicycle Maintenance at Home

2010-01-28T09:17:00.000-08:00

Borrowed from our friend James at Jack & Adams...

Even though the mechanics at Jack and Adams are more than happy to work on your bikes, there are a few things that you can do at home to keep your bike in good working order. One of the most important things is to keep the proper air pressure in your tires. If your tires have the right amount of air in them, not only will it be easier to ride, but you will get less flats and your tires will last a lot longer.

Another important thing to do is to keep your chain properly lubricated. If you keep your chain properly lubed it will not only work better but your bike will run smoother and the life of your chain will be prolonged quite a bit.

The easiest way to make your bike last longer and look better is to keep your bike clean. Not everyone can use a hose and bucket at home, but anyone can at least wipe down the bike with a Grease Monkey Wipes if it is just a little dirty. When you keep your bike clean, everything not only works better, but it will help lengthen the life of your drivetrain and help you to find any issues with your bike whether it is finding a crack in your frame or simply keeping your hands clean when you have to change a flat. I try to wash my bike at least once every couple of weeks under normal riding conditions and after every ride that is wet or muddy.

Shark Tank: Erin's Experience

2010-01-17T16:19:00.000-08:00

Do you have any idea how hard it is to keep something as fantastic as Shark Tank a secret for 5+ months? Especially when it includes an outcome such as ours? Well, I can tell you.

Near Impossible.

But we did it. Which means that we have 5 months of catching up to do! To start, I thought I'd give my version of preparing and being in the Shark Tank.

In June 2009, Tim saw a post on Twitter about a tv show looking for new companies. He sent in an application, and then got a request for an audition video. That video will probably pop up at some point, but basically - Tim & I filmed while on our bikes, conversing about our company. The timing was great because I would have to ship my bike off to Idaho for my first Ironman Triathlon a few days later. The producers liked our video and sent us a more detailed application. To be honest, I never entertained the fact that we might be chosen until we received an email saying we were a semi-finalist. At this point, we got excited.

A few weeks later, Tim got the call saying we were chosen to go to LA and film for the show. When Tim let me know, I was so excited that I jumped around the parking lot outside my gym for about 5 minutes. I'm sure I looked pretty crazy to anyone driving by, but little did they know I had just gotten one of the most important phone calls of my life!

Soon after, we had our first conference call with our amazing producers, Bill & Matt. This is when the work began. Tim & I have been running Grease Monkey Wipes for over a year and felt like we had a good idea of our market and a good grasp on our company. However, we wanted to be sure we had answers to everything the sharks might ask us. You might remember that Robert said we had all the answers to his questions. That was not a mistake. We researched and practiced and researched more. In fact, I felt like I was back in business school doing case study after case study. Of course, this case study would be the most important one of my life.

Then there was "the pitch." We knew we had to have a solid, compelling pitch to interest the sharks. Producers Bill & Matt gave us so much important feedback. They listened to us for weeks until they felt we had the best pitch possible. I can still remember Tim & I practicing it over and over. We paid attention to the smallest details, even taking note of where each of us felt most comfortable standing relative to one another!

Before we knew it, our big weekend arrived. Everything sunk in once we arrived at our hotel and were given instructions on how to proceed for our stay. Meetings + practice + post-practice meetings. Tim & I continued to rehearse our pitch and go over all the possible shark questions we could think of. I will say - we were ready!

Fast forward to us waiting behind the big wooden doors... opening them... and walking down the hallway towards the sharks. I never really had time to get nervous until we stood before them and waited for our cue. My heart slowly made its way up towards my throat and I was sure the microphones could hear it thumping! We heard the cue, and Tim started our introductions. Believe it or not, all the sharks were smiling at us! At that point, I realized, "this is fun!" and the nerves started to fade. As we continued our pitch, I became completely focused on showing the sharks just how great Grease Monkey Wipes are. Tim was phenomenal at answering the shark's detailed questions, and together we did our best to prove ourselves and our business.
Yes, it was disappointing when Kevin O said he was out. Then Kevin H also said he was out, followed by Daymond. At least Daymond said that he like us and he liked the company. Then Barbara said no. Still disappointing, but at least so far, no one thought Grease Monkey Wipes was bad business - instead, we just weren't the business for them.

At that point, all our hope was on Robert. I felt deep in my gut that he wanted to be part of our team, but I knew we had to prove to him that WE were worth the investment. We had proven our business acumen, but now it was time to prove our HEART.
Robert asked, "Erin, in one sentence, why should I give you the money?"

I will take that question with me to the grave! This is when I gave it my all, and Tim backed me up. Then we waited as Robert thought and thought... and then we heard "I'm on board."

YES!!!!! We did it!!! But it got better.... before we could even realize what was happening, Barbara was on board too! We had hoped for one investor, but to get two? It was all I could do not to jump around again! We shook their hands and then made the return trip down the hallway. It's possible that Tim and I were so excited that we actually floated back down that hallway.

Fast forward again to this past Friday night. Tim and I held a watch party in Austin. It was surreal to see ourselves on TV, and yet we still couldn't share what happened. Our friends cheered and cheered (and boo'ed whenever a shark said no.) Then it was over, and we could FINALLY talk about our experience and celebrate!
Here we are thanking the 130+ people that came to the watch party. Meanwhile, our website was crashing because we had so much traffic. (A 4700% increase to be exact!) Emails & orders were piling in!

It's been 2 days since the show, and I am still floating on air. The response and feedback has been amazing. When Tim told me about Shark Tank, I never thought in a million years what it would mean for us. Now, we have two amazing partners that will help us create the "Global Wipes Empire" we have always wanted. (So much thanks goes to Barbara & Robert for believing in us!)

So... thanks for sharing this experience with us! Please continue to follow along and see what happens in Grease Monkey World! Expect Grease Monkey domination soon!
Cheers & Thanks
-Erin

Lastly, if you haven't checked it out yet, please visit us at http://www.greasemonkeywipes.com/!

Sneak Peek: Behind the Scenes at Shark Tank

2010-01-15T08:04:00.000-08:00

Today is our big day! We are so excited to that our friends, families, supporters, customers, fans, etc. get to experience what we experienced back in August 2009.

Here's a sneak peak!

Tim is far and away the "numbers guy." Ask this guy how many bike shops there are in the US, or what annual sales were in 2005, or exactly how many Grease Monkey Wipes we sold in July 2008... he knows it. Here he is studying during our flight to LA.
We got to spend Saturday wandering around Los Angeles. We found this shirt for Tim, which had the perfect message, but just didn't seem his style.

Now for a little secret about Team Grease Monkey Wipes. In order to mentally prepare ourselves for big meetings, we find a nearby deli. In LA, we studied our Yiddish at Factor's Deli.Onto Sunday, which was filming day. Here is Erin hanging out in the trailer. What you can't see is her token trick of staying calm by doing crossword puzzles.

This is Matt, one of our producers, taking the cruiser bike for a spin around the studio. We had 2 of the most amazing producers you could ask for. Every week we had phone conferences with them as they helped us, guided us and fought for us. We were lucky to have Matt & Bill on our side throughout this experience.

Here we are hanging outside the trailer with Producer Bill. We seem to be in an unintentional "Power-Stance" gearing up for our pitch.

And that's about all we can share for now. Please tune in tonight to see how it all turns out. Again, we want to give a HUGE thank you to everyone has has supported us along our journey. We couldn't do it without you!

Grease Monkey in the Austin Business Journal

2010-01-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

Grease Monkey to appear on ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’
By Laura Mohammad

You have a great start for an entrepreneurial business. But you need venture capital. So you prepare and make the pitch. That’s nerve-racking enough, but imagine making that pitch in front of millions.

That’s what cyclists Erin Whalen and Tim Stansbury did before the five millionaire panelists on ABC’s reality show “Shark Tank.”
“Shark Tank” features entrepreneurs pitching their businesses to five megasuccessful businesspeople in hopes of landing venture capital for taking their companies to the next level.

The drama and humor flow from the panelists grilling the pitchmen and, in some cases, engaging in hardball negotiations. The show featuring Grease Monkey was scheduled to air at 8 p.m. Jan. 15.

Whalen and Stansbury are the founders and owners of Austin-based Kong Concepts LLC. The company makes Grease Monkey Wipes, which are individually packaged, moistened citrus wipes that they say attack grease, oil, tar, ink and adhesives. With a nontoxic, all-natural product, the owners hope to expand beyond the cycling community to moms, the messes their charges provide and beyond.

Whalen and Stansbury saw a Twitter post about “Shark Tank” and decided in June to try out. They went through the application process, which included a five-minute audition tape, were selected as semifinalists, did more paperwork, and by Aug. 16, they were taping at Sony Studios in Los Angeles.

Whalen and Stansbury practiced their pitch together. It took them two weeks to get their material ready, including information on the company’s history, sales projections, how much money they needed, how much ownership they would be willing to trade, and every facet of the product.

“It was like a crash course in business pitches,” Whalen said. “We gave a pitch for three minutes. Then they barraged us with questions.”

Potential investors want to see two things: compelling marketability and assurance that the management team is the right one, said Rob Adams, director of the Moot Corp program at the University of Texas McCombs School of Business.

The inexperienced pitch focuses on the product and its features — “the comfort food of entrepreneurs,” Adams said.

For Whalen and Stansbury, the sharks asked about historical financials, how Whalen and Stansbury came up with the idea, the process of going from idea to having the product in hand, and their intentions for the investment funds.

Whalen said the two would like money to land a national distributor. Right now, the business partners are doing all the sales themselves. They also would like money to travel to trade shows.
“And having their insight would be valuable,” Whalen said of the sharks.

What has Whalen learned? “I can give an elevator pitch off the tip of my tongue really well,” Whalen said. Having done her homework, she can present quickly and effectively now.
While Whalen is obligated to remain mum about the outcome of their “Shark Tank” episode, things are going well for the company.

Whalen and Stansbury have sold 15,000 units, which retail for $1, since June 2008, with a focus on the cycling market. They recently announced that national cycle accessories retailer Paceline Products will begin selling their product this year, increasing distribution from 45 stores to more than 4,800.

Meanwhile, they want more. They see their future in mechanics, moms and motorcyclists.
Whalen and Stansbury met a little over three years ago through Austin du Athletes, a group that focuses on biking and running.

Whalen, an Ironman triathlon alumnus, said the two friends came up with the idea during the summer of 2007. They were fixing a flat tire on a charity bicyle ride in Katy, and they were covered in grease by the time they finished. “And we still had 60 miles to ride,” Whalen said.
The two, both with business backgrounds, started talking about developing a durable wipe that would clean grease and grime — “pretty much anything gross you would get on your hands,” Whalen said.

Whalen said she would do “Shark Tank” again. Riding 150 to 200 miles a week while in training, she hopes to gain nationwide exposure and spread the word of the wipes beyond the cycling community.

“The show might expand our market for us,” she said. “And we hope they decide that we are a viable company and they want to invest in us.”

The triathlete shied away from choosing a favorite shark: “They were definitely intimidating, but I respected the questions that they asked. They were very nice,” she said.

Copyright © 2010 American City Business Journals. All rights reserved.

Shark Tank Tomorrow

2010-01-14T14:11:00.000-08:00

Just want to remind all our readers to tune into ABC's Shark Tank tomorrow, Friday, January 15 at 9 PM EST/8 PM CST. See if Erin and I can swim with the sharks or become chum. Below is an image of Erin's first dive into the tank...

Jerseys That Make a Statement

2010-01-14T08:30:00.000-08:00

The other day I was reading some tweets and the twitterverse seemed to be all aflutter about the site Share the Damn Road. So being the curious sort I had to take a look. They have some really cool jerseys that really get point across. Here is what they say about themselves...

Share The Damn Road was created by professional cyclist Phil Gaimon. Phil was tired of being honked at, buzzed, and cussed out while he trained, and frustrated that the speed of motor vehicles made witty and insulting replies impossible. To solve that problem, he set out to create a line of jerseys that express what he's always wanted to say to passing cars. Get one yourself, and finally experience the joy of having the last word.

The goal is to convey messages of safety and cyclist's rights, but there is an element of humor and frustration, which we feel cannot be denied in the cyclist/motorist relationship, so these jerseys are not for wimps.

So if you are not a wimp and want to wear a jersey that makes a statement check out Share the Damn Road.

Awesome Photos from DCM Photography

2010-01-14T05:15:00.000-08:00

The Grease Monkey Wipes team is so lucky to have amazing friends that help us along the way. Most recently, our friend and fellow cyclist Dave McLaughlin, owner of DCM Photography, did some photo shoots for us, our products and for some fabulous models (fellow triathlete friends Lindsey & George.)

He deserves a big shout out, and a huge recommendation from us in case you are looking for a photographer. Thanks Dave + Lindsey + George!

(Of course, if you like what you see here, make sure to visit our online store because it's all for sale!)

Strolling into the Tank

2010-01-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

Finally it is getting real. More and more promos are coming out about our journey into the Shark Tank. Check out the clip here for another peek into our upcoming episode. Daymond promises to make someone "filthy rich." Could it be us? Tune in Friday, January 15 at 9 ET/8 CT to find out.

Tim's Tips: Proper Air Pressure

2010-01-12T09:20:00.000-08:00

There are a lot of questions out there about how much air a road bike tire should have.

This has been a hot topic among wheel and tire manufacturers and most of the major companies have put a lot of time and money into testing what is really faster. Nearly every test had the same results. Most people were a little surprised about the results. The tests showed that the pressure that had the least amount of rolling resistance was actually around 90 psi. The general rule of thumb up to this point was the higher the pressure, the less resistance you had. Most people simply aired their tires up to whatever the tire was rated to. What the tests showed was that when the tires were aired up to more than 120psi the tire actually bounced on the small bumps that all pavement has. This bouncing caused the tire to lose momentum and it took more effort to keep the tire going at the same speed. When the tire was aired up to 90psi the tire deformed over the bumps and kept the momentum going.

This same result also showed up when using 23mm tires versus smaller "faster" tires. The 23mm tires deformed over the bumps and the 19mm tires bounced on the bumps. If you want to know more about these tests, here is one that is pretty good and it shows you how to figure out exactly what your perfect pressure is for you weight and tire size.

http://thelazyrando.wordpress.com/tag/bicycle-quarterly/

Sneak Peek

2010-01-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

Here is a top secret image taken from this week's episode of the Shark Tank.

Epic battle of monkey vs shark. Who will win?

Simply Too Funny...

2010-01-06T07:46:00.000-08:00

Every now and then I find myself taking cycling too seriously, and I have to stop and remind myself I ride because I love it and when you strip it down like that it becomes fun again. I found this great blog post over on the Jack & Adam's blog that really made me laugh and brought it all into perspective. Great post Sam.

Tim's Tips: Eating

2010-01-05T08:33:00.000-08:00

The biggest food mistake recreational cyclists make is eating too much on short rides, says Allen Lim, chief of sports science and technology for Slipstream Sports. On rides that last less than two hours, leave energy foods at home. You're not burning enough to warrant the extra calories.

Eat complex carbohydrates with fiber and protein two-and-a-half hours before riding. Try oatmeal with yogurt and eggs, and steer clear of sugary foods like doughnuts. "They give you an insulin spike," says Lim. "Your blood glucose levels rise, and an hour later you get a sugar low and feel like total dung."

If you're riding long, don't try to subsist on energy gels, sports drinks and bars, which consist primarily of processed sugar and aren't meant for sustained energy. A savory snack, such as a turkey sandwich, provides a break for the palette and the stomach (remember, at lunchtime it's expecting a meal), as well as some needed protein and fat.

The ultimate on-bike snack: potatoes, which are an abundant source of potassium, sodium, fluid and carbohydrates.

So get your potato on and jump on the bike and ride.

See ya Trek...Astana's riding Specialized in 2010

2010-01-04T09:06:00.000-08:00

Alberto Contador and his Team Astana mates will be riding Specialized bicycles as he strives to win a third Tour de France in 2010.

“It is very important to have the best if you want to win the Tour de France. This is why I made it a requirement to have Specialized as the team bike for my return to Astana,” said Contador during a video conference with the company’s founder and president, Mike Sinyard.

Chief brand officer Ben Capron said Specialized was “totally committed to supporting Alberto and the rest of the team in their pursuit of another Tour victory.”

“Winning the Tour has been a dream of ours for many years, but even more important is the opportunity to work with riders like Contador and (Alexander) Vinokourov to help us create the best bikes possible and bring them to riders everywhere.”

The company has already worked with Astana’s general manager, Yvon Sanquer, when he was with Team Festina during 1999-2001.

“I could see the professional attitude that animated the company; they never stopped developing and improving the material they supplied to the riders,” he said at the team’s training camp in Pisa, Italy. “Since then, Specialized has continued its progression to become the reference point in road bikes.”

Year in Review

2009-12-31T14:50:00.000-08:00

What a great year for Grease Monkey Wipes.

- We have grown our retailers from about 10 to over 45 the past year.
- Our sales for the year increased by over 50%.
- We received product mentions in Triathlete Magazine, Dirt Rag Mag, and on Fat Cyclist.
- We began a strong relationship with High Five Events.
- Team Grease Monkey Wipes participated in several charity cycling events.
- From these events we were able to raise over $10,000 for the various charities.
- GMW was able to sponsor some amazing teams and organizations such as Threshold Cycling, Big Pig Racing, Transparent Racing, and Austin Cycle Camp.
- On a personal side Erin completed her first Ironman, and Tim completd over 4000 miles on the bike.
- We have met tons of amazing people.

Team GMW wants to wish everyone a fantastic new year. Look for some huge things from us in 2010.

Enjoy the ride.

Team Grease Monkey Wipes

Grease Monkey Wipes to Swim with the Sharks!

2009-12-29T12:44:00.000-08:00

It's been about 6 months in the making, but we are VERY excited to finally share some big news from Grease Monkey Wipes.

Drum roll please...on Friday January 15, 2010 at 9:00 pm EST/8:00 pm CST, Grease Monkey Wipes will be featured on the Mark Burnett produced reality TV show Shark Tank on ABC.

That's right - Grease Monkey Wipes is going prime time!!

The premise of Shark Tank revolves around entrepreneurs pitching their business ideas to 5 multi-millionaire investors in hopes of getting funding in exchange for an equity share in their company.

Obviously we can't share what happened to us on the show... for that you'll just have to tune in on January 15. But we can give you an inside peek at the path we traveled to get on the show...

We heard about the opportunity through Twitter in late May and emailed some basic information to them thinking why not. We were then contacted by the show in early June. At this time we began the extensive application process that included filming a 5 minute audition tape (which may be leaked to YouTube in the near future). The first week of July we found out we were semi-finalists for the show, and then the first week of August we found out we made the show. Woohoo!! After this we flew to Los Angeles at the end of August to pitch Grease Monkey Wipes.

Below are some pictures from our very own trailer on the Sony studio lots. And here's a sneak peak of what we were up against... Kevin O'Leary (i.e. you crazy chickens!) was shooting us as we set up to pitch!

This has been such an amazing experience for both of us (even though we have been waiting to pop holding this news in since August.) We have absolutely relished every minute of it. There are tons of people to thank for their help along the way, and that will come in an update soon. But for now, we just wanted to let you know that on January 15 (9:00pm EST/8:00pm CST)Grease Monkey Wipes will be taking a swim with the sharks and we hope you will tune in to see if we come out of the tank alive or if we become chum.

Thanks for all of your support and enjoy the ride,

Erin and Tim

Tim's Tips: Inflation Method

2009-12-28T07:25:00.000-08:00

CO2 inflation or not CO2 inflation, that is the question.

One of the most important items that a cyclist can carry with them is something to replace a flat tire. This includes not only a spare tube but a way to fill this tube. There are two main options: a hand pump or CO2 cartridges.

The usual argument against CO2 cartridges is the cost. Each CO2 cartridge costs between $2-3 at your local bike shop. Well, if you think outside the box you can buy them much cheaper. If you buy the cartridges in the paint ball section at Wal-Mart, Academy, Dick's, etc. you can get a box of 15 for around $8. This is a huge savings over the LBS. For my money the convenience and time savings associated with CO2 makes it a far superior to a hand pump.

Just remember to recycle the spent cartridge when you get home.

Making a Carbon Bike Frame

2009-12-26T08:17:00.001-08:00

Pretty cool video on making a carbon bike frame.

Nudity forgiven but cyclists feel heat over helmets

2009-12-23T06:30:00.000-08:00

Some interesting cycling news from New Zealand...

Two naked Kiwi men have been issued with a warning for riding without protective head gear around a New Zealand seaside town.

Senior Constable Cathy Duder was patrolling Whangamata, a beach resort in the North Island, on a quiet Monday night when she came across the two nude men aged in their early 20s.

"They were more shocked than I was, trying to cover up their bits and pieces with their hands," she said. Asked to explain, the pair said "they wanted to experience total freedom".

"And I said to them: `The way you're heading, you're going to experience total confinement'."

The officer said the "very fit" men "didn't seem drunk at all. That's what worried me".

Constable Duder issued a warning for failing to wear helmets and sent them home.

"I suggested that they stay on their bicycles and not get off because they were managing to discreetly hide their bits and pieces," she said.

Just a Little House Cleaning

2009-12-22T10:20:00.001-08:00

Nothing to see here, please move along...just need to do it to get on Technorati

VUWUYAV4RSRD

Quote of the Day

2009-12-22T07:30:00.001-08:00

“Every time I see an adult on a bicycle, I no longer despair for the future of the human race”

H.G. Wells

O'Grady Likely Out of Tour Down Under

2009-12-21T15:23:00.000-08:00

Australian cyclist Stuart O’Grady has been diagnosed with bacterial pneumonia and could miss the Tour Down Under in January, race officials said Monday.

O’Grady was admitted to hospital after arriving in Adelaide from his home in Monaco last week. He was later discharged and doctors were expected to reassess his condition this week.

Tour Down Under race director Mike Turtur said it was extremely unlikely that O’Grady would be fit to ride. The Jan. 17-24 race will feature seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong riding for his new RadioShack team as well as Australia’s world road cycling champion Cadel Evans.

Turtur said doctors had ordered O’Grady to take a complete break in order to make a full recovery.

“That being the case I think it would be a week or two before he could even think about going for a ride,” Turtur said. “He needs to get this knocked on the head.”

O’Grady, who has ridden the Tour de France since 1998 and finished second four times, is a member of Team Saxo Bank. He and Graeme Brown won a gold medal for Australia in men’s Madison at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Tim's Tips: Commuting

2009-12-20T07:46:00.000-08:00

A new feature that we are going to institute on our blog is a Tim's Tips article. This will be a weekly feature and will provide tips for cyclists. These may be maintenance tips, performance tips, nutritional tips, or just just general cycling info. We hope you enjoy this new feature...let us know. Now without further ado, the first Tim's tip.

Commuting

Riding for transportation is real cycling. Add the miles to your training log and watch your fitness improve as you put in extra saddle time.

It's also real money saved, real pounds lost and real reduction in carbon monoxide emissions. The average American drives 29 miles per day. If you use a bike instead of a car just one day per week, in one year you could save more than $1,000 in gas and car costs, burn 15 pounds' worth of calories and prevent 74 pounds of carbon monoxide from entering the atmosphere.

Route Selection 101: The best way to get somewhere by bike is usually different from the best way by car. As a driver, you want high-speed direct roads, and hills don't matter. On a bike, look for a road that parallels the highway, but with slower traffic (drivers will avoid it), timed traffic lights and a wide shoulder. Avoid stretches of strip mall, which provide multiple opportunities for a car to turn into your path. And try different roads until you find the best route; you might go two blocks farther to avoid a steep grade, or find it faster to cut through the park.

If your trip is less than 5 miles, there's not much excuse for driving instead of riding. "It will likely take you just as long to get into your car, drive there, find a parking spot and get out of your car as it does to ride," says Randy Warren, a commuter-program specialist at the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation.

To prevent that yoked-ox feeling, ditch the messenger bag and install a rear rack.

Quit using "there's no shower at work" as an excuse. In a survey of hundreds of bike commuters in North America, Dave Glowacz, author of Urban Bikers' Tips and Tricks, found that 85 percent don't bother to shower after reaching their destination. "If you just change your clothes, you're removing most of the sweat with your clothing," says Warren. Wiping down helps, too.

A rural bike commute isn't much different than your regular road ride, but riding in urban traffic requires you to ride more like you would drive, says Warren. "Traffic will be heavier, but also slower than you're used to," he says, "so often you'll be able to take the whole lane or share it." Also, signal where you're going and ride predictably.

It's not always fastest to ride fast. The need for sudden stops can hijack momentum. Commuting becomes almost a zen art, and a hell of a lot of fun, if you go with the flow of timed lights and traffic.

The best bike for your commute depends on the distance and terrain you cover, and whether or not you'll have to lock up. It could be the rusty hardtail or cruiser in your garage, your regular road bike or a dedicated commuter bike. The one bike that will work for every commute: a cyclocross bike.

How to Achieve Better Results with Spinning

2009-12-19T10:59:00.000-08:00

Spinning is extremely popular and it’s a great way to train your endurance during the winter months. Here are some simple tips that will increase your gains from spinning:

1. Warm up before spinning

Spinning lessons have a normal length of around 50 minutes. For trained cyclists this is a very short amount of time, when this time includes both warm up, intervals and cool down.

Remember that most spinning lessons are made for people that are not very familiar with cycling training. Therefore I suggest you do a warm up before you enter the spinning room to get more training time.

2. Drink water with electrolytes and carbohydrates

Spinning rooms have a very high temperature and high humidity. Therefore it is quite normal to sweat much more than you are used to.

Some people believe that they sweat more at spinning lessons because they work harder. That is not true.

They sweat more because of the climate, not because they work harder than normal. I will recommend you to drink water with electrolytes and carbohydrates to maintain a high level of performance during the whole session.

3. Choose intervals carefully

Spinning instructors plan their lesson to be interesting and challenging for a wide range of riders. Most of them train spinning only 2 to 3 times week, so they can use all their effort in this short period.

If you do not like the program made of the instructor, consider to use your own program. It is possible to ride one of these programs without telling the instructor. Just remember to stand up and sit down when the instructor tells you to (and ignore his commands about pacing strategy).

4. Remember rest days

You can not do intervals every single day. Some days should be easy days. If you go for a ride in the spinning class on one of these days, please remember your goal with the training.

Have fun and happy winter training

2010 Vuelta a España Route Announced

2009-12-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

The 65th edition of the Vuelta a España will break new ground in 2010 with the leader’s jersey changing color from the traditional gold to red and the first stage taking place at night.

The 21-stage race gets underway on August 28 with a 16.5km time trial in the southern city of Seville and will finish in Madrid on September 19.

This year’s event, covering a distance of 3,352km, will travel across many mountainous regions, and will take in the 10.1km climb with a gradient of 8.4 percent to the summit of Cotobello aux Asturies, in the north of the country.

Spaniard Alejandro Valverde won the 2009 edition ahead of compatriot Samuel Sanchez and Australia’s Cadel Evans.

Valverde, Sanchez and their countryman Alberto Contador, winner of this year’s Tour de France and the 2008 Vuelta, were all present at Wednesday’s presentation.

“It’s a Vuelta that looks exciting but also very, very hard,” said Valverde, who also expressed his delight that stages six and seven of the race will run through his home region, Murcia.

“It’s a beautiful Vuelta, for the spectator,” said Contador.

Contador, who is tied to Astana for one more season, said he would not make a decision over his participation in the race until May or June but admitted he would be disappointed to miss out for a second successive year.

Former riders such as Frenchmen Bernard Hinault and Bernard Thevenet were also present for the course unveiling.

Race director Javier Guillen conceded that the global financial crisis had made it “difficult to find locations” for the stages.

Big Things for Jack & Adams in 2010

2009-12-17T07:18:00.000-08:00

Exciting news from our friends at Jack & Adams.

2009 is almost in the books. It was a great year in the Triathlon and Cycling community and we are sad it is over. Jack & Adam’s Bicycles is excited about the New Year and has some new things in store for the 2010 season. Below is a little taste of what to expect in the months to come.

1. Retul – J & A will be adding a Retul system to the fit room. With already one of the most fit educated staff in the world, Jack & Adam’s is sure to stay on the edge of technology with the addition of this 3 D fitting system.

2. High Five Events – In addition to The Texas Tri Series and The Splash -N- Dash Summer Series, High Five Events and Jack & Adam’s will be adding two more great events in 2010! Keep your eyes on our websites to find out all the details.

3. Triathlon Info Seminars and Clinics – Starting in February Jack & Adam’s and many of our community partners will be hosting a monthly clinic covering everything from your 1st triathlon to your next Ironman. The monthly seminars will be completely free and cover topics such as nutrition, training, mechanics, traveling, equipment, and much more. We are lining up special guest now for the entire year.

4. Multisport Club – With all the pieces in place Jack & Adam’s will be forming a community multisport club. It will be completely free and cover all aspects of swimming, biking and running. Special product discounts, social events, guest speakers, training, info clinics, lots of free stuff and much more. Again keep your eyes on J & A for more info soon.

Thanks for the great year and we hope to see you all in the store in 2010. We promise it will be a good one.

BRIEF-Cycling-World champion Evans to race 2010 Giro

2009-12-15T02:48:00.001-08:00

MILAN, Dec 15 (Reuters) - World champion Cadel Evans will race in May’s Giro d’Italia as well as next year’s Tour de France.

“Finally I am returning to the Giro. I have concentrated on the Tour in recent years but I think I am able to race two grand tours at a high level” the 32-year-old Australian told Tuesday’s Gazzetta dello Sport, which runs the Giro.

The BMC rider last raced the Giro in 2002.

Contador accepts UCI world ranking award

2009-12-14T14:18:00.000-08:00

Two-time Tour de France winner Alberto Contador said Monday that 2009 has been his best year ever, as he received the award from the International Cycling Union (UCI) as this season’s top rider.

“I think this has been my best year ever, in terms of results rather than other circumstances, given the constant tension and pressure to which I was submitted,” said the Spaniard. He was apparently referring to his tense relationship with his Astana teammate, Lance Armstrong.

“It has been the most important year of my life on a sporting level,” said Contador, after receiving the award from UCI President Pat McQuaid for topping the world rankings this year.

Contador won his second Tour de France crown in July, after first taking the title in 2007. The 27-year-old, who confirmed recently that he would remain with Astana next season, said he is now “excited and motivated” about next season, when his main goal will be a third Tour de France title.

“The fact that there is no team time trial should clearly help us,” he said. “What concerns me more is the cobbled roads, I hope we can get through that. It will be important to avoid falls that can ruin the race.”

The third stage of the Tour, between the Belgian town of Wanze and Arenberg in France on July 6, includes 13 kilometers of cobbled roads. The rider said he has scheduled “a block of races” earlier in the year, including the Tour of the Algarve, the Paris-Nice, the Tour of Catalonia and the Tour of the Basque Country.

Wiggins joins Team Sky

2009-12-13T07:55:00.000-08:00

Triple Olympic gold medallist Bradley Wiggins has joined Britain’s Team Sky on a four-year contract, team principal Dave Brailsford said on Thursday.

“Brad will be at home in Team Sky. It is the perfect fit and he will be a marquee rider for us,” Brailsford said in a statement.

The 29-year-old Briton, who finished fourth in the Tour de France this year, joins from U.S. team Garmin-Transitions becoming the 25th member of the newly formed team.

“I’ll be on a British team with management and coaches who have shaped me as a rider. They are instrumental in my achievements so far and I know they are critical for the next part of my career,” Wiggins said.

“This team wants to be the biggest and the best and the most admired team in the world. It’s the first British ProTour team and to be part of that from the start is going to be something quite special.”

Wiggins, who won Olympic gold in Athens 2004 on the track before taking double gold at last year’s Beijing Olympics, had been linked to Team Sky since their formation in February.

The team, whose aim is to produce a British winner of the Tour de France within five years, are led by British cycling’s performance director Brailsford, the man behind their unprecedented cycling success in Beijing.

“Brad was a real revelation at this year’s Tour de France, has been hugely successful for British Cycling and his Olympic success has brought wide recognition,” Brailsford said.

“My personal opinion is that the best that Brad Wiggins could be is very close to the top of the Tour de France podium.”

Wiggins becomes one of seven British riders on the team which also includes Norwegian champion Kurt-Asle Arvesen and his promising compatriot Edvald Boasson Hagen.

“Obviously the main goal is the Tour de France, but from day one when we start competing at the Tour Down Under we’ve got riders who can win right through the season,” Wiggins told a news conference.

“I am sure that if we hit all the goals the team want to hit early season, selection for Tour de France will not be a problem.”

Garmin-Transitions, who still had Wiggins contracted for another year, were disappointed with his departure.

“Although we understand his strong desire to be a part of the UK’s first-ever ProTour team, we would have loved to continue with him through 2010. His departure is not the outcome we hoped for,” they said in a statement.

Wiggins admitted it was a tough decision to leave.

“I still believed, as late as last weekend, that I would be with Garmin next year. I stayed away from the whole ins and outs of it all, and just let the people behind the scenes get on with it,” Wiggins said.

Together with seven-times Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong’s Team RadioShack, Team Sky will make its first competitive appearance at the Tour Down Under in Adelaide, Australia from Jan. 17 to 24.

High Five Events to speak at 2010 USAT Race Director Symposium

2009-12-12T15:04:00.000-08:00

We always like to post good news about our friends. Dan puts on amazing events and we are proud to be involved with him and High Five Events...

Dan Carroll of High Five Events has been selected to speak at the USAT Race Director Symposium Feb. 12-14th in Colorado Springs. Dan will be presenting on "Volunteer Recruiting and Management". Also presenting at the event is Johan Bruyneel, team manager for 9 Tour de France championship squads including US Postal, Discovery Channel, and Astana. Sure, Johan is the keynote speaker and Dan is just a breakout session presenter, but it's still pretty cool.

Dan is also on track to achieve the new Level 2 Race Director certification by the end of the year. Dan is already a certified RD, but Level 2 is the new advanced certification. He will be one of the first race directors in the country to reach this level of certification.

Anyone can attend the RD symposium, although it's probably pretty boring unless you're into race directing. Info is available here.

Gift Ideas for Triathletes this Holiday Season

2009-11-24T06:44:00.000-08:00

Reprinted from the TRIJUICE blog...

Okay TRIJUICE followers, this post really isn’t for you. This post is something for your family, wife, father, sister and friends, to help them get you something cool this Holiday Season. Stay tuned as your opportunity to land some cool gifts comes soon with the 2nd Annual TRIJUICE Holiday Giveaway Contest.

It’s that time of year again which means it time to figure out what to get a triathlete that already has everything or is a newbie in the sport and needs some help. Well, we hope to take some of the pain out of your holiday shopping with our list of 16 great gift ideas for your triathlete.

Stocking Stuffers
Here are some small gift ideas that any triathlete would enjoy this holiday season.

• Help any triathlete save time getting secured in their running shoes with a set of Xtenex Laces. These unique laces have an elastic core and a series of knots along the entire length of the lace at consistent length intervals. Stretch the lace and the knots disappear, release the tension and the knots reappear. The more knots between the eyelets on the shoes lessens the tension; the fewer knots between eyelets increases tension. This technology enhances footwear fit, comfort and performance. They are available in a wide variety of colors! MSRP: $19.95 (www.xlaces.com)

• Here is a little something for the triathlete who has accomplished the ultimate test of endurance or one day dreams of doing so - a Silver M-Dot key chain. The nice thing about this key chain is that it’s not made out of plastic; it’s a nice hunk of metal and has a nice price to go with it. MSRP: $7.95 (www.shopironman.com)

• Triathlon involves spending a lot of time training and/or racing on a bike which can cause chafing in some sensitive areas. Here is a product that will make a triathlete’s ride more comfortable, DZ Nuts high viscosity chamois cream. DZ Nuts is scientifically formulated to minimize the effects of chafing and burning every time they ride. MSRP: $23.00 (www.dz-nuts.com)

• Here is a good stocking stuffer, a pair of SLS3 Compression Sox. Their innovative graduated compression technology maximizes the blood circulation in the muscles. The supportive effect and the compression of the SLS3 Compression Sox reduce the muscle vibration drastically, which leads to less damage of the soft tissue and less sore muscles. This will improve their performance in training, competition and recovery. MSRP: $57.95 (www.slstri.com)

• A bike mechanical issue is bound to happen to any triathlete. The end result after fixing the problem could be dirty and greasy hands. How about getting them some Grease Monkey Wipes so they can cleanup after their unfortunate situation. Grease Monkey Wipes are individually packaged cleaning wipes that use an all-natural citrus formula to easily remove grease, grime, oil or other messes from skin and surfaces. They can store one in their bike bag or tuck one in their jersey when training or racing. MSRP: $11.99 for 12 Wipes (www.greasemonkeywipes.com)

To read the rest of the article please click here.

Presenting Team RadioShack

2009-11-23T19:14:00.000-08:00

Lance Armstrong’s new RadioShack racing team is getting ready to ride.

Team manager Johan Bruyneel announced a 26-rider lineup for 2010 on Monday, including Armstrong’s former Astana teammates Levi Leipheimer, Andreas Kloeden and Yaroslav Popovych.

Armstrong, a seven-time Tour de France champion, came out of retirement to race the 2009 tour with Astana and finished third at age 37, making him the second-oldest rider to make the podium.

But there was friction with teammate and race winner Alberto Contador, and Armstrong struck out to form his own team where he could be the lead rider again. Bruyneel directed all of Armstrong’s seven tour victories and was with Astana in 2009.

RadioShack draws riders from 16 countries, and Bruyneel called it a good mix of experience and youth.

Kloeden finished sixth at the 2009 Tour de France. Leipheimer was in fourth after 12 stages when he broke his wrist and had to withdraw. Also joining RadioShack from Astana is Haimar Zubeldia.

“Our main goal will be the Tour de France and other stage races, but I am confident that, with these riders, we can perform very well in the one-day races as well,” Bruyneel said.

The team has scheduled a two-week training camp in Tucson, Ariz. in December. It is scheduled to make its racing debut at the 2010 Tour Down Under in Australia.

How to Cycle Uphill

2009-11-10T20:22:00.000-08:00

Thought this was pretty appropriate especially with this weekend's Tour das Hugel.

How to Cycle Uphill -- powered by http://www.livestrong.com

Mellow Swap 2009 and Tour das Hugel

2009-11-10T08:27:00.001-08:00

Looking for some sweet deals on bike gear head over to Mellow Johnny's this Saturday for Mellow Swap 2009. Prefer pain and suffering for your Saturday, conquer the gnarliest Austin hills in the Tour das Hugel.

Tentative 2010 High Five Events Event Calendar

2009-10-27T13:07:00.001-07:00

Our friends over at Jack & Adams and High Five Events have put on some amazing events this year and they are already looking forward to 2010. Here is some information taken from the Jack & Adams blog.

The 2009 Texas Tri Series wrapped up Sunday with the Longhorn Ironman 70.3. Luckily the race had beautiful weather, because cleaning up the site on Monday in the pouring rain and cold was totally miserable. With most of the 2009 multi-sport season behind us, we know many of you are already looking forward to 2010 and trying to set your calendar. Below is the tentative event schedule for 2010. It is subject to change, but we're pretty sure the dates of the triathlons will not move. The lineup will be officially announced at the Texas Tri Series finisher party on November 14th. Registrations will go live December 1st.

Feb. & March: We might add some totally new events. Stay tuned.
April 20th: Pure Austin Splash-n-Dash
May 9th: The Pure Sport Rookie Triathlon
May 16th: Skeese Greets Women's Triathlon
May 18th: Pure Austin Splash-n-Dash
June 15th: Pure Austin Splash-n-Dash
July 11th: Couples Triathlon
July 20th: Pure Austin Splash-n-Dash
August 1st: Jack's Generic Tri
August 17th: Pure Austin Splash-n-Dash
Sept. 6th: The AVIA Austin Triathlon
Sept. 21st: Pure Austin Splash-n-Dash
Nov. 20-21st: The Dirty Du

Longhorn Tri Expo

2009-10-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

Team Grease Monkey Wipes will be out at the Longhorn Tri expo today from 11-4 PM. Stop by to pick up some Grease Monkey Wipes or all the great clothes we have to offer including organic cotton tees, tech tees, and jerseys. Also hang around for Tim's tire changing clinic at 1 PM.

Have a great weekend.

Team GMW

Armstrong’s Radioshack granted ProTour licence

2009-10-18T04:51:00.000-07:00

PARIS, Oct 16 (Reuters) - Lance Armstrong’s RadioShack team has been granted a ProTour licence that guarantees the American outfit entry into next year’s Tour de France, the International Cycling Union (UCI) said on Friday.

“Following the examination of a request received, the Licence Commission has awarded a four-year UCI ProTour licence for the period 2010 to 2013 to Team RadioShack (USA),” the UCI said in a statement.

Seven times champion Armstrong, announced the creation of RadioShack during July’s Tour de France, which he finished in third place overall.

The 38-year-old returned to the sport in January, riding for the Astana team, after 3-1/2 years in retirement.

For next season, Armstrong, will be able to rely on experienced riders, notably American Levi Leipheimer and Andreas Kloeden of Germany.

Leipheimer, 35, has finished in the top 10 on the Tour four times—including third in 2007. Kloeden, 34, finished second overall in the Tour de France in 2004 and 2006.

Belgian manager Johan Bruyneel, the man behind Armstrong’s seven Tour titles, is set to leave Astana to join RadioShack when the American starts his 2010 season at the Tour Down Under in January.

RadioShack, however, will also bank on promising young riders.

“Sam Bewley (age 22) and Bjorn Selander (21) make the jump from the Trek-Livestrong U23 team, while Daryl Impey (24), Ivan Rovny (22) and Ben Hermans (23) all come from major European teams,” RadioShack said on their website on Friday (www.teamradioshack.us).

“Janez Brajkovic who comes with Armstrong from Astana, will be only 26 in December,” the team said.

Bike Hugger

2009-10-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

I hooked up with the folks at Bike Hugger last year when they were in town for SXSW.

What is Bike Hugger you ask? Just one of the coolest damn cycling blogs out there. They are based in Seattle, WA but they travel the country doing damn cool things for cycling. For example they put on Mobile Socials at events such as SXSW and Interbike. Basically these are bike parades that cruise all over town and end at a really great party where they have tons of cycling schwag, free grub, and usually some ice cold beer. While they were here last year I gave them some samples of Grease Monkey Wipes and it looks like they put them to good use.

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Look at dem purty hands, so nice and clean.

They will be back in town in March 2010 for SXSW and their next Mobile Social. Check them out.

Enjoy the ride.

Tim

Tim

Upcoming Events

2009-10-12T20:33:00.001-07:00

Even though the cycling and tri season are winding down that does not mean things slow down for Team GMW. In the upcoming weeks we will be make our presence known at several events around the Austin area.

10/17 - Tour de Fat: We will be volunteering in the morning and then riding the GMW cruiser in the bike parade. If you have never been to this event you are truly missing out.

10/23-24: Longhorn Tri Festival: Stop by and stock up on Grease Monkey Wipes, and check out our new line of performance tech tees and 100% organic cotton shirts.

10/25: LVESTRONG Challenge: Tim will be sporting the new GMW cycling kit as he tackles the roads out in Dripping Springs during this annual event.

11/7: The Wurst Ride: What better way to wind down the cycling season then a 62 mile ride that ends at Wurst Fest with brats and beer. Answer: there is no better way.

Get out and enjoy the fantastic fall weather and we hope to see you on a ride soon.

Team Grease Monkey Wipes

The Austin Triathlon

2009-09-04T05:36:00.000-07:00

Imagine a world class triathlon held in the front yard of one of the most active and outgoing cities in the US. Imagine a large event with the atmosphere and intimacy of a small hometown race. Imagine biking down the most historic street in Texas. Imagine the fun. That is The AVIA Austin Triathlon!

Grease Monkey Wipes is proud to be a sponsor of the Austin Tri and are glad that we can be involved in the fun and festivities. Come visit us at the Tri Expo on Sunday for not only the Grease Monkey Wipes you have come to know and love, but we will also have a brand new shipment of merchandise.

We will have 100% organic cotton tees, some stylish and functional tech tees, and some great new hats. All items will also have special Austin Tri discounted pricing. Some come on out and say hi and save a few bucks during our Austin Tri sale.

Hope everyone has a fantastic and safe Labor Day weekend and we hope to see you at the Expo.

Enjoy the ride.

Update from Transparent Racing

2009-09-04T05:17:00.000-07:00

We are proud to sponsor some great racers across the country. Below is a report from our friend Macky with Transparent Racing...

I'm sorry it has been so long since I've been in touch. I just got back from a multi-week trip to the East Coast for my first ever World Cup and 2 Pro XC Tour races, Mt. Snow and Windham. I had a great time at all 3 of the races, but I admit that I didn't race or feel nearly as good as I would have liked...

At the Bromont World Cup, my first ever, I finished 80th of 120 or so starters. I was called up almost dead last, so I was pleased with my result because it means that I passed 30 or so people! The race was completely chaotic because it was raining and muddy, but I had a great time and enjoyed seeing some of my Chilean friends that I met during my time in South America last winter.

At Mt. Snow and Windham, I finished 30th and 33rd, respectively. Certainly not up to par with my earlier results, but still top half.

Unfortunately, I was not chosen for this year's U23 World Championships team. I am disappointed, but I worked my hardest to be chosen, and when I spoke to USA Cycling, I was told that I was next on the list. I was also disappointed because USA Cycling chose to only bring 3 U23 racers of the 7 they were allowed to bring, but unfortunately, I have no control over that...

I am now taking a bit of a break from cycling to spend time with my family and get ready for college. When I get back to school I will be preparing for the collegiate mountain bike season and then for cyclocross!

Thank you so much for your support this mountain bike season! The Grease Monkey Wipes have been great.

Austin Tri this Weekend

2009-09-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

Since the Grease Monkey Wipes sponsored Austin Tri is this weekend, we're posting an article from our friends over at Jack & Adams regarding air pressure in tires for overnight bike check-in.

To air or not to air?

For big events, bikes are sometimes required to be left overnight in the transition area. For some reason word spreads like wild fire to let the air out of tires so that they will not blow overnight. If you have been at an event like this and heard tires blowing right before the event, it has further increased your fear of this happening to you and made you a believer in this pre- race superstition. Below we will give the real reasons why tires blow in transition and a little info on why they will not.

Because people are nervous about getting flats, they tend to replace both tubes and tires for big events. This leads to tires and tubes not being seeded correctly and then blowing in transition overnight.

Because people are using bikes that are not very well maintained, they may have dry or weak spots on the tires. Mechanics / helpers / friends helping others getting ready in transition during bike check in will normally pump tires up to the max tire pressure. This exposes already weak, dry rotted or damaged areas of the tire. This is the main culprit of tires blowing.

A severe temperature change will only cause a very slight change in tire pressure overnight. A swing of 50 degrees will be a shift of less than 10 lbs. Most wheel manufactures' rims can withstand over twice the recommended tire pressure before the tire would pop off of the rim. So if your tire is to be aired up to 120 lbs, chances are your rim can hold twice that amount of force or more.

Rubber is also a porous material. Tubes and tires will lose pressure over a short amount of time. Some tires will lose as much as 25 to 40 % of their air in a week. If you air your tires up the day before you will probably have a little less air in your tires by race start. This would be a bigger reason why to air them up race day.

In short, letting the air out of your tires before an event will not prevent flats overnight, but if you like to do it because it makes you feel better, that is fine. Sports are surrounded by all kinds of pre-event habits and superstitions. Letting your air out can be chalked up to that.

A month to go

2009-08-24T07:13:00.000-07:00

In one month I will be heading to Columbia, MD to ride in the 24 Hours of Booty. This event will be the first time I have attempted to ride for 24 hours straight. This should be an amazing event because not only is it a fundraiser for the Lance Armstrong Foundation but also my entire family will be there. My dad is going to ride with me (at least part of the time) and my brother and his wife, and my wife are going to act as our pit crew. Making sure our bottles are full, we remember to eat, etc. Should be an amazing experience. Plus as I have blogged about before I get to ride at night, and I absolutely love that, it is so much fun and really brings out a child like quality.

I will keep updating as my training continues, and if you are interested in donating to support me in this ride you can do it here.

Enjoy the ride.

Tim

Special Jack & Adams Shop Ride This Weekend

2009-08-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

Lovingly borrowed from the Jack & Adams blog.

As the summer winds towards an end, we are going to introduce monthly Sunday shop ride "specials." This week, one of the regular shop ride leaders, Zac Dashner, and team Velossimo will be taking cyclists and TRIATHLETES out for a group riding training session. Learn to spin fast and efficiently on a group ride. It's the motion not the muscle!

Group riding & paceline riding 101 session on the morning ride of Sunday, August 23rd. 45-50 miler No hammering, no attacking. It's about etiquette and technique. This won't be a hard-paced ride, but just the same you should be able to sustain 18-20 mph while drafting (which we'll teach).

If you're a regular on the Sunday rides, if you do the Decker Lake 35 mile ride or the 33 miler down to the corner store in Buda, do not be intimidated by "45-50" miles. You'll find proper group & paceline riding this distance to not be appreciably more difficult...maybe even easier.

Those wanting to push the pace should not join. Those not wanting to follow direction/instruction/leadership of the group leader(s) should not join, either. For those with TT/tri bikes, absolutely NO riding in the aero bars for this ride and absolutely no MP3 players.

Attendance is free and unlimited, free tacos and ice cold water on the deck back at Jack and Adam's. Be at the shop ready to leave at 8:15 AM, we always start on time! The regular shop ride and no drop ride will leave at 8:30 as always!

Lance Armstrong won’t ride in Tour of Missouri

2009-08-12T12:54:00.000-07:00

Organizers of the Tour of Missouri say this year’s race won’t include cycling star Lance Armstrong.

Chris Aronhalt, managing partner for Medalist Sports, which organizes the Missouri race, says Armstrong’s current team, Astana, will be part of the Tour of Missouri.

Aronhalt said Tuesday that Armstrong, a seven-time winner of the Tour de France, has already scheduled a fundraiser for his cancer-fighting Livestrong Foundation in Canada during the Tour of Missouri race.

The third Tour of Missouri begins Sept. 7 in St. Louis and concludes Sept. 13 in Kansas City.

Some of the sport’s top names, such as Mark Cavendish, Christian Vande Velde and Levi Leipheimer are expected to compete in the race.

Very good lineup especially for an American race after the Grand Tours, but still would have been nice to see Lance in this event.

Night Rider

2009-08-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

The last two nights I have started to ride at night in preparation for the 24 Hours of Booty in late September. And let me tell you it is fun. I have never ridden at night but with the full moon I thought it was the perfect time to give it a try. Each night I went to the veloway at approximately 8:30 and got in a single lap at dusk. Then it was turn out the lights, bring out the moon, and light up the stars.

Let me tell you I had more fun riding at night then I have had in a really long time on a bike. Since it was dark and I had to slow down I did not worry about speed, did not wear a heart rate monitor and just rode. Just like a kid. Even had a root beer float after Wednesday's ride.

So if you have never ridden at night I would highly suggest it. Especially if you have a closed loop with no vehicular traffic. Get yourself a relatively inexpensive headlight and get out and ride, even if it is 10 at night.

2009-08-04T10:40:00.001-07:00

order your Grease Monkey Wipes jerseys and gloves, final two days, delivered in mid-Sept, see them at www.greasemonkeywipes.com/store.html

Traveling for a Triathlon

2009-08-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

Borrowed from our friends over at Jack and Adams.

If you plan on traveling for a tri this summer, here are some tips from Pro Triathlete, Richie Cunningham. Richie is now living in Austin, TX but races nearly every weekend in all parts of the world. From the Newsletter archives, July 2008:

So you just stepped off the plane after spending hours cramped into a tiny seat between some huge guy who's hogging the armrest and an old man that keeps trying to sleep on your shoulder. You're cramped, tired, and have developed cankles* - not to mention pissed off because they charged you an extra $150 to check your 15 lb bike. Best of all - you have a big race in a few days. And you plan to do it all again in a few weeks. Keeping up with your training and making sure you feel fresh for your race has always been a challenge after a long day of traveling. Here are some things you can do to fight those challenges and end up with some great races under your belt.

*cankles - when the ankles are so fat or swelled that they have become indistinguishable from the calves, therefore becoming one in the same

Before the Flight
· If you are traveling for a Sunday race, I recommend arriving on Thursday. You can turn your travel day into a light training or recovery day and then use Friday and Saturday for warm-ups for your race. It also gives you extra time to recover from your flight.

· It's not a bad idea to take your goggles, swimsuit and running gear in your carryon. If they lose your bags (which they often do), you'll still be able to go on a run or swim to loosen up and get the jelly out of your legs.

· Limit the amount of weight you have in your backpack. If you have to walk around with it in the airport, make sure the straps are on both shoulders. Carrying your backpack around puts a lot of strain on your shoulders, which could undo the months of hard training you've done in the pool.

During the Flight
· Flying dehydrates the body more than usual, so it's really important to hydrate as much as possible before and during the flight. Don't be afraid to ask for two drinks at a time on the plane. What I find works well is getting a juice and a water. Also, you can bring a water bottle with you. If you don't want to buy one, take an empty water bottle with you through security and fill it up on the other side. It's also not a bad idea to take something like Emergen-C Powder or electrolyte tablets, i.e. Nuun, to put in your drink. Being dehydrated on the plane can have lasting effects for days to come, so even if you feel fine, force that extra water down and don't worry about stepping over the person next to you if you need to go to the toilet. This gives you a good excuse to get up and walk around anyways.

· Compression socks work wonders on that post-flight cankle problem. Put them on before your flight and take them off when you get to the hotel. You'll notice a huge difference and your legs will feel much better than they usually do after your flight.

· This is a personal preference, but I always bring menthol/eucalyptus, cough drops or chewing gum on the flight as it seems to open up the airways when the air conditioning gets really stuffy and irritates your nose. If you're a big fan of airplane boogers, you can skip this advice.

· Get up and walk around when you can. It will keep your legs from getting too stiff.

· If it's a long flight, I've found I recover best if I don't sleep on the plane. It ends up just being a wasted sleep and makes me feel groggy for the whole day, so I wait until I arrive.

Once You Arrive
· If it's a long flight, take a 45min to 1 hr nap when you get there. Then go for a light 30min run, bike, or swim to get the blood flowing and flush out the crap in your legs.

· Go to bed at your regular time and don't think about what time it is in your old time zone!

Returning Home
· If you are a training machine and paranoid about missing a session and you get stuck at the airport, look for the airport hotel. They usually have a small gym with a treadmill or spin bike.

· Don't be afraid to get straight back into training once you get home. In my experience, it helps me recover a lot faster than taking 3 to 4 days off. My favorite post arrival training session is a long run a day after arriving home. You'll feel crappy for the first 30 or 40 minutes, but by the time you are done, you'll feel like you've flushed most of the race and travel from your legs. This should set you up for getting back into your training for your next race.

Hopefully these tips help you get more out of your training and have a better race.

Richie Cunningham
Professional Triathlete

2009-07-20T08:32:00.001-07:00

ACL Festival schedule is out find it here" http://ping.fm/1SW0k

2009-07-19T02:24:00.001-07:00

Up early to work transition at the Howdy Du (www.howdydu.com), come out and say hi and grab a free Grease Monkey Wipes

2009-07-10T11:07:00.001-07:00

40 mile ride cut to 28.4 as it is too effing hot, note to self: the tdf reruns all day, heat waits for no man

2009-07-08T18:20:00.001-07:00

Laying on the beach for a week was not good training for riding in 100+ degree heat, legs felt great, heart about to explode

Austin Duathletes Monthly Ride

2009-06-11T13:50:00.001-07:00

The Grease Monkey Wipes sponsored Austin Duathletes is holding a free ride on Saturday, June 13th. It starts at the Flying Saucer, an awesome bar and grill located at the Triangle.

Here's the info you need:

The Austin Duathletes would like to invite you to join us for our summer monthly bike rides! Our first ride kicks off on Saturday, June 13th from the Flying Saucer.

What are the distances?
Well, we are certainly glad you asked! We will be offering two distances - 25-miles and 45-miles. Each group will have a lead rider to help guide you through the route.

Do I have to have experience?
It would be helpful if you have basic bike handling skills and are familiar with proper cycling etiquette. However, we welcome all newcomers to the group and will help you out on your first ride with the club!

Can I bring a friend that is not an Austin Duathlete member?
Of course, anyone is welcome! The more the merrier, we always say...

Flying Saucer Info HERE

MORE INFORMATION:
WHEN: Saturday, June 13, 2009
TIME: 9:00am
LOCATION: The Flying Saucer
ADDRESS: 815 W. 47th St. Austin, TX 78751 (It's located in the Triangle!)

Click HERE for the ride map.

ATLAS Ride This Weekend

2009-06-02T08:57:00.000-07:00

Grease Monkey Wipes is proud to be part of this weekend's Texas 4000 Atlas Ride.

Come ride ATLAS on Saturday, June 6th to join the Texas 4000 on the first day of their epic 4500 mile journey from Austin to Anchorage. Enjoy beautiful views, gently rolling hills, and wildlife of the Texas hill country on either a 50 or 70 mile route from Cedar Park to Lampasas. The ride is fully supported and ends at Texas Legato where riders are invited to enjoy live music, BBQ, beer, and wine tasting. To register or for more information, visit the Atlas Ride website.

Safe Passing Bill Passes Texas House and Senate!

2009-06-01T19:57:00.000-07:00

The final version of the Safe Passing Bill, SB 488, was passed yesterday by the Texas House. Today, the Senate voted on it, and overwhelmingly voted to pass it.

That was the final step for the bill to complete in the Legislature. Now, it will be sent to Governor Perry, and we are cautiously optimistic that he will sign it into law. We will know the outcome by June 21, the last day the Governor can sign or veto bills.

Awesome news for cyclists in the Lone Star State.

Grease Monkey Wipes Proud to be a Sponsor of the ATLAS Ride

2009-05-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

Come join the Texas 4000 Saturday, June 6th on the first day of their epic 4500 mile journey from Austin to Anchorage. Enjoy beautiful views, gently rolling hills, and wildlife of the Texas hill country on either a 50 or 70 mile route from Cedar Park to Lampasas. The ride is fully supported and ends at Texas Legato where riders are invited to enjoy live music, BBQ, beer, and wine tasting. To register or for more information, visit Atlas Ride.

Grease Monkey Wipes is a sponsor of this event so not only will you be supporting the amazing riders of the Texas 4000 but you also get a free Grease Monkey Wipes in your rider goodie bag. What more could you ask for?

Grease Monkey Wipes - Press Release

2009-05-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

Grease Monkey Wipes – Not Just for Greasy Hands Anymore!

Austin, TX – May 5, 2009 – Clean your hands and your bike with just one wipe. Grease Monkey Wipes, the premier individually packaged degreasing wipes for cyclists, provide a convenient solution to cleaning your greasy hands as well as your bike chain and other drivetrain components.

Grease Monkey Wipes were originally designed for cyclists to clean their hands after a mid-ride repair. Now cyclists are using them to clean their bikes too.
“When we introduced Grease Monkey Wipes we envisioned them as a portable solution to remove grease from your hands after changing a flat tire, putting back on a dropped chain, or dealing with other mechanical issues associated with riding,” says Tim Stansbury, owner of Grease Monkey Wipes. “Now our customers are sharing additional ways they use the wipes, such as easily cleaning their bike chains. They like the fact that they can use a single, pre-moistened wipe to quickly clean the chain, whether at home or at an event.”

Designed by cyclists for cyclists, Grease Monkey Wipes are individually packaged degreasing wipes. Each durable 2.5” x 4” pouch contains an 8” x 7” nontoxic, pre-moistened wipe that utilizes a natural, citrus-based formula to handle heavy duty cleaning, including grease and grime. Grease Monkey Wipes are conveniently sized to be kept in a saddle bag, bento box, jersey pocket, post-race bag, or toolbox.

Grease Monkey Wipes have a MSRP of $1.00 and can be purchased online at www.greasemonkeywipes.com and at bicycle retailers throughout North America. Interested in carrying Grease Monkey Wipes? The company is in the process of expanding its retailer and distributor network and welcomes new dealer inquiries. Please contact Tim Stansbury at tim@greasemonkeywipes.com for more information. There is a low minimum order and prices are keystone.

About Grease Monkey Wipes:
Grease Monkey Wipes is located in Austin, TX and strives to provide unique products for cycling and triathlon enthusiasts. The company is committed to offering customers eco-friendly products that are made in the United States. For more information visit the company’s website at www.greasemonkeywipes.com.

MS 150 Ride Report

2009-05-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I participated in my third two-day MS150 bike ride. The two previous have been from Houston to Austin with a stop over in LaGrange, this one was from Frisco to Fort Worth with a stop over in Justin. Or at least that was the plan. Thursday night of last week I received an email from the MS folks saying that due to the swine flu Tarrant county had canceled all public gatherings for the upcoming weekend. This meant that Fort Worth would no longer be our finishing destination.

When I heard the news I was pretty bummed because I figured they would simply cancel day two of the event, and I was questioning if I wanted to drive 7 plus hours roundtrip to ride only a single day. Luckily the MS folks were able to make some quick changes to the route and finishing venue and Day 2 was back on (at least for the time being).

So Carri, our friend Michelle and I headed up to Frisco. We stayed at a pretty cool hotel called Aloft that is part of the W Hotel family. Really funky and modern, but they had a nice hotel bar that had a good happy hour so we were all happy.

After receiving another email from the MS group later in the evening stating that overnight camping was no longer allowed at Texas Motor Speedway we were a little worried but were glad that we knew that at least Day 1 was still on, even though they did reiterate that if it was raining the route might be closed.

The rest of the evening was pretty uneventful but the 5 AM wakeup call did come pretty early, but nothing left to do but gear up and ride.

The weather was pretty nice, overcast and not too oppressively hot, even though it was humid as a mother. Unfortunately my computer was not working so I did not know my speed or cadence for the first 38 miles. I think without that info I was going a little faster than planned and ended up losing Michelle pretty quickly. Sorry Chel.

All through the day you could tell we going to get weather and twice I rode through areas where the temperature immediately dropped 20 degrees. Then I would ride about 20 minutes and just as quickly as it dropped it warmed back up. This is the first time in my 4 years of riding that this has ever happened to me. And it happened twice. The second time going from cold to hot my glasses even fogged up. Obviously we were going in and out of the leading edge of the incoming front.

Luckily I finished the 88 mile route in a little over 4.5 hours and was ahead of the weather.

Michelle on the other hand got caught in some weather, but luckily made it back in great spirits.

As with most Texas storms the storm that hit the Speedway came fast and furious with tons of rain, high winds, and lots of lightning and thunder. Luckily we had ridden with the Saint Arnold Brewery team and they had plenty of Rudy's barbeque and several delicious varieties of their beer to help us weather the storm. It is amazing how fast the campground area turned into rushing rivers of water.

We had a feeling with all the rain and more expected the next day that day two would be canceled so we began packing up our gear for the drive back to Austin, and sure enough shortly after we left an announcement was made canceling the second day.

So after everything was said and done the second day was indeed canceled, not due to the swine flu but due to good old Mother Nature. But I was not disappointed at all...I got to ride my bike, I got to hang out with friends, I made some new friends, I tried some really delicious beer, and most importantly I was able to raise funds for the MS Society to help those affected with MS. A pretty good weekend in my book.

2009-04-30T14:23:00.001-07:00

nice 22 mile ride, with half mile sprints thrown in, looking forward to the 160 miles at the MS150 from Frisco to Ft Worth this weekend

2009-04-29T12:48:00.001-07:00

Bike Rumor showing Grease Monkey Wipes some love: http://ping.fm/kFdoV

Run Far Time Trial

2009-04-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

Run Far puts on a free time trial every two weeks from April to September for all the cyclists in Austin. Since the event is held about two miles from my house I try to ride it every chance I get.

Last night was the second week in a row that I have set a personal best time, and last night I crushed my previous fastest time by over 14 seconds. That might not seem like a lot but I think it is pretty good considering the time trial is only 8 miles and usually takes me about 20 minutes. So a 14 second drop equates to an improvement of 1.16%

There are a few things I did right last night that I think helped me get this time:

- Proper warm up
- Not pushing too hard at the beginning and having nothing left on the back side
- Taking the U-turn a little wider to maintain speed
- Having a rabbit that helped me push through to the end
- Relaxing

Sub 20 minutes is still alluding me, but I will catch it before the end of the summer.

- Tim

2009-04-28T09:56:00.001-07:00

new Grease Monkey Wipes review from MTN Bike Riders at http://ping.fm/zWPjm

And in local music news

2009-04-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

Today the lineup for the 2009 ACL Music Festival was released and I have to say I am pretty impressed. Here are the bands I am looking forward to seeing in October...

* Pearl Jam - have not seen them in over 10 years
* Beastie Boys
* Kings of Leon - have missed them the last few times they have been in town
* Ben Harper and the Relentless7
* Thievery Corporation - always have an amazing live set
* The Dead Weather - interested to see Jack White's new band
* Sonic Youth
* Toadies
* Citzen Cope
* The Decemberists
* STS9 - been a few years since I saw them last
* Bon Iver
* MMW - thankfully they finally return to Austin
* Michael Franti & Spearhead - How you feelin'
* Heartless Bastards - missed them at SXSW
* Dan Auerbach - can his solo stuff be as good as the Black Keys?
* Dr. Dog
* The Knux - a little rap at ACL
* School of Seven Bells - enjoyed them at SXSW

Plus the many bands that I am sure I will learn about between now and then. So this is who I like, how about you?

2009-04-24T20:27:00.001-07:00

as much as I like the concept of social networking sometimes it just wears me out, whatever happened to just saying hello to someone?

Pretty frickin' cool

2009-04-24T12:25:00.000-07:00

Saw this on Bike Commuters and just had to share.